diff --git a/A Burning Bush, a Concerned God, and a Hesitant Response (Sermon)_summary.txt b/A Burning Bush, a Concerned God, and a Hesitant Response (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 76e600ae25bd624581c4da1c725be7653a4069f1..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/A Burning Bush, a Concerned God, and a Hesitant Response (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,55 +0,0 @@ -• The speaker will be discussing Exodus 3:1-12, a story about Moses encountering God in a burning bush. -• Moses is tasked with leading the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt to a promised land. -• The story fits into the larger narrative of Scripture and is connected to the previous story of Joseph. -• The speaker hopes to help listeners find new insights in this familiar story. -• Joseph interprets Pharaoh's dream and is put in charge of storing food for Egypt -• A famine hits, causing Joseph's family to move to Egypt where they reunite with Joseph -• Over time, Joseph's family grows to 600,000 soldier-aged men (over 2 million total) and eventually becomes enslaved by the Egyptians -• Moses is born during this time and is saved from death by being placed in a basket on the Nile River, adopted by Pharaoh's daughter, and later kills an Egyptian soldier while trying to stop abuse -• Moses flees to Midian where he spends 40 years as a shepherd before returning to Egypt at age 80 -• The story of Moses' encounter with the burning bush takes place on a mountain that will later be the site of the Ten Commandments and worship by the Israelites -• Two characteristics of God are discussed: - • God's sovereignty over time and history (including the use of specific locations for important events) - • God's concern for his people, including Moses' calling as a deliverer at birth -• The power of God in Exodus 3 -• God's presence in the burning bush as a symbol and literal manifestation -• Angels in the Old Testament and their role as embodied entities of God -• Moses' encounter with God in the bush, including God's instructions to Moses -• Moses' fear of looking at God due to his own sinfulness is not the reason he hides his face -• Comparison with Isaiah 6, where Isaiah also feels unworthy to look at God -• Moses' encounter with God in the story emphasizes God's power rather than love or justice -• The Bible highlights the theme of God's power, which can be incomprehensible to humans -• Understanding God's power is essential to grasping other attributes such as grace, mercy, and justice -• The distance between God and humanity is measured by God's power -• Recognizing God's infinite power can help people approach Him with humility and reverence -• Characteristics of God: powerful, concerned for his people -• Exodus 2 and 3 passages showing God's response to suffering -• God hears, remembers, sees, and knows his people's needs -• God intervenes to save his people from Egypt -• Generations of Israelites disobey and sin against God -• God's concern for his people has been a permanent fixture throughout history -• God sent the Son to save his people from death in Bethlehem -• The Holy Spirit came down to save his people from captivity and temptation -• God is here to bear trials with us, help us through them, and be with us -• He holds us in powerful hands, beyond our comprehension or awareness -• Characteristics of God: power and concern -• Importance of understanding these characteristics together -• Moses' response to God's call, considering his background as a shepherd in Midian -• Moses' humility, contentment, and meekness, celebrated in the Bible -• Contrasting Moses' early life with his later character, highlighting God's plan for him -• The significance of God waiting until Moses was humbled before calling him -• Moses' reluctance to accept God's call due to perceived inadequacy -• The biblical account of Moses' excuses and hesitation in Exodus 3-4 -• Comparison between Moses' responses and modern-day excuses for not serving God or fulfilling one's calling -• The irony that God often chooses people who feel unqualified or inadequate to achieve great things -• The importance of trusting in God's power and sovereignty, rather than relying on personal abilities or qualifications -• The concept of God calling the unqualified -• A personal story about a meme and its relevance to the topic -• The mission statement of the church and the challenges it poses -• God's power and ability to accomplish tasks despite human limitations -• The idea that God is more powerful than humans can comprehend -• God is always with you and hears your prayers -• He qualifies those He calls to fulfill His purpose -• Don't confuse qualifications with God's calling -• Thank God for his power and concern for humanity -• Ask God to guide you to live a life of love, service, and gratitude \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/A Burning Bush, a Concerned God, and a Hesitant Response (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/A Burning Bush, a Concerned God, and a Hesitant Response (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6dfb927aaeafe3535d30d35c4426dee6401a7368..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/A Burning Bush, a Concerned God, and a Hesitant Response (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1038 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.60] So today, I don't get to preach every week, of course. -[6.70 --> 8.14] I kind of come and go a little bit. -[8.20 --> 11.24] Every few weeks I pop up here, and so it's hard to maybe get some rhythm in, -[11.28 --> 13.86] so I have to think of what I'm going to preach on kind of sporadically. -[14.00 --> 16.60] And today I knew that the kids were going to be doing Moses in the Burning Bush, -[16.66 --> 18.98] so I thought, hey, why not just do the same thing? -[19.22 --> 21.28] Why try to think too creatively about it? -[21.28 --> 23.12] It's a really, really big story. -[23.12 --> 26.20] It's one that we've all heard before because we just did it a second ago, -[26.20 --> 29.82] and I thought, you know what, let's dig into it a little bit further. -[30.26 --> 33.94] So we're going to do this without the help of a wrinkly blue old dog at the end of my arm, -[34.36 --> 36.68] and we're going to look at this passage right now. -[37.26 --> 41.82] It is a bit of a fascinating story, and it's a bit of a big story as well. -[42.74 --> 47.30] But even though it is a popular story and a big story, there is a ton to unpack in it, -[47.84 --> 50.66] and so I thought that we could spend some time looking at that today. -[50.66 --> 57.34] There's enough in this passage, actually, that you could spend weeks and weeks and weeks on it, -[58.34 --> 61.28] but we don't have weeks and weeks and weeks, so we're just going to really dig in for, -[61.48 --> 64.78] we're going to spend the next few hours just, you know, tackling Moses here. -[64.98 --> 67.48] So, just kidding, it's like barely over an hour. -[68.78 --> 73.14] My hope is that you can find in this familiar story something new and something creative. -[73.32 --> 75.52] I'm hearing a real high. Is that my mic? -[76.30 --> 79.02] It's my voice? Okay, Eric's just shaking his head. -[79.02 --> 82.16] We might just have to deal with a little bit of technical difficulty. Sorry about that. -[83.46 --> 86.74] So, on the screen behind me, if you've got your Bibles in front of you, open up. -[86.76 --> 91.06] We're going to look at Exodus 3, the first 12 verses of Exodus 3 today. -[91.78 --> 94.70] You'll notice if you do open your Bibles, the story's much longer than that, -[94.78 --> 97.24] but like I said, we're just going to hone in on sort of these first 12 verses, -[97.36 --> 99.04] because there's enough there for us to look at. -[99.86 --> 102.44] So, Exodus 3, the first 12 verses, it says this. -[103.44 --> 108.86] Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro, his father-in-law, the priest of Midian. -[109.02 --> 114.90] And he led the flock to the far side of the wilderness and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. -[115.80 --> 120.12] There the angel of the Lord appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. -[121.12 --> 125.06] Moses saw that though the bush was on fire, it did not burn up. -[125.88 --> 129.04] So Moses thought, I will go over and see this strange sight. -[129.12 --> 130.34] Why the bush does not burn up? -[130.34 --> 135.16] When the Lord saw that he had gone over to look, God called to him from within the bush, -[135.68 --> 137.60] Moses, Moses. -[138.80 --> 141.50] And Moses said, here I am. -[142.64 --> 144.80] Do not come any closer, God said. -[144.90 --> 148.66] Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground. -[149.92 --> 152.02] Then he said, I am the God of your father, -[152.48 --> 155.46] the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. -[155.46 --> 161.88] At this, Moses hid his face because he was afraid to look at God. -[163.08 --> 166.52] The Lord said, I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt. -[166.64 --> 169.00] I have heard them crying out because of their slave drivers, -[169.20 --> 170.90] and I am concerned about their suffering. -[171.02 --> 174.22] So I have come down to rescue them from the hand of the Egyptians -[174.22 --> 178.98] and to bring them out of that land into a good and spacious land, -[179.30 --> 181.78] a land flowing with milk and honey, -[182.68 --> 187.44] the home of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites. -[189.08 --> 191.32] And now the cry of the Israelites has reached me, -[191.36 --> 193.74] and I have seen the way the Egyptians are oppressing them. -[194.40 --> 199.60] So now go, I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people, the Israelites, out of Egypt. -[199.60 --> 205.32] But Moses said to God, Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt? -[206.28 --> 208.36] And God said, I will be with you, -[208.80 --> 212.32] and this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you. -[212.90 --> 214.74] When you have brought the people out of Egypt, -[215.14 --> 218.38] you will worship God on this mountain. -[219.08 --> 220.14] The word of the Lord. -[222.48 --> 224.46] Now, as with everything in the Bible, -[224.80 --> 228.18] this is a little story in the midst of a giant story. -[228.18 --> 232.62] And while the burning bush story sort of stands on its own in terms of intrigue -[232.62 --> 234.04] and in terms of magnitude, -[234.04 --> 237.80] it's placed in this grand narrative of Scripture. -[238.20 --> 241.80] And it's important to be reminded, or perhaps even hear for the first time, -[242.22 --> 246.62] how this event fits into this big story of Scripture. -[247.26 --> 248.40] And so, strap yourselves in. -[248.62 --> 251.70] I'm going to get us there in about 400 words or less, -[251.88 --> 253.02] how the Bible gets us here. -[253.10 --> 256.80] So, as you've been hearing with Pastor Burt over the past few weeks, -[256.80 --> 258.50] we've been talking about this man, Joseph. -[258.90 --> 263.26] Well, this story takes place right after the story of Joseph in the Bible. -[263.64 --> 266.52] And without purposefully ruining the end of Pastor Burt's sermon series, -[267.02 --> 269.98] Joseph, who is the son of Jacob, who is the son of Isaac, -[270.10 --> 272.78] who is the son of Abraham, gets sold into slavery -[272.78 --> 276.00] and eventually becomes this high-ranking official in Egypt. -[277.10 --> 279.82] After he interprets this dream of Pharaoh teaching, -[279.96 --> 282.84] or prophesying, sorry, about this famine that's going to be hitting Egypt, -[282.84 --> 286.60] he gets put in charge of all of the harvest -[286.60 --> 288.60] and of all of the food within Egypt, -[288.72 --> 291.56] making sure that Egypt will be in a good place when this famine hits. -[292.02 --> 294.56] Now, because of this famine, Joseph's extended family, -[294.72 --> 296.20] which was about 70 people, -[296.64 --> 300.08] actually moves to Egypt for all the food that is there. -[300.24 --> 301.92] And they end up reuniting with Joseph -[301.92 --> 304.78] and living there for a very long time. -[305.54 --> 307.34] Now, while in the Bible the story of Moses -[307.34 --> 309.14] immediately follows the story of Joseph, -[309.14 --> 312.20] in fact, about 400 years go by. -[312.72 --> 315.46] And in that time, numerous generations, of course, pass. -[315.54 --> 317.60] And over the course of those 400 years, -[318.04 --> 322.34] Joseph's family of 70 grows massively. -[322.88 --> 324.96] In 400 years, that family of 70 -[324.96 --> 329.96] grows to a family of 600,000 soldier-aged men, -[330.60 --> 333.76] which we read about in Exodus 12, verse 37. -[334.50 --> 337.96] So that's 600,000 soldier-aged men. -[337.96 --> 340.50] And if you included the women and the children -[340.50 --> 342.28] and the non-soldier-aged men, -[342.46 --> 344.00] we're talking about a group of people -[344.00 --> 346.18] that's probably well over 2 million. -[346.50 --> 349.02] That's a lot, and that is a very fertile family. -[349.94 --> 351.28] Now, over that time, -[351.46 --> 353.50] pharaohs have also come and gone, of course. -[353.84 --> 356.62] And eventually, they kind of forget about Joseph -[356.62 --> 357.70] and all he did for them. -[357.74 --> 359.06] And they forget about this family -[359.06 --> 362.06] that's now grown into this giant number of people. -[362.36 --> 363.94] They grow increasingly worried -[363.94 --> 365.50] and end up enslaving them -[365.50 --> 368.06] and eventually command that all Hebrew boys -[368.06 --> 370.60] that are born be cast into the Nile River and killed. -[371.26 --> 373.44] Well, Moses is born in that time. -[373.94 --> 375.28] And Moses' mother saves him -[375.28 --> 376.28] by putting him in a basket, -[376.42 --> 377.40] floating him down the river. -[377.50 --> 379.62] He eventually gets adopted by pharaoh's daughter, -[379.96 --> 381.14] gets to live in the palace, -[381.54 --> 382.26] learn their customs. -[382.34 --> 384.48] But one day, he sees a Hebrew man -[384.48 --> 386.44] being treated poorly by an Egyptian soldier. -[386.44 --> 388.36] So he kills the Egyptian soldier, -[388.84 --> 390.42] gets called out for it, and flees. -[391.10 --> 392.10] And now he's on the run. -[392.52 --> 394.86] He's a shepherd for his father-in-law, -[395.04 --> 397.24] and he's been in the wilderness for a long time. -[397.44 --> 400.08] And then he sees a burning bush. -[400.56 --> 403.28] And that is the text that we are in today. -[404.50 --> 407.08] So interestingly, the years of Moses' life, -[407.18 --> 409.58] they're divided into three 40-year chunks. -[409.70 --> 411.62] It worked out quite perfectly for him, actually. -[411.62 --> 413.20] So the first 40 years, -[413.30 --> 415.26] he spends in the palace in Egypt. -[415.52 --> 417.34] Then he kills that man, and he flees. -[417.40 --> 418.42] In the next 40 years, -[418.42 --> 421.54] he is a shepherd in the wilderness in Midian. -[421.84 --> 423.58] And the third starts with this passage. -[423.68 --> 424.60] He sees this bush, -[424.84 --> 425.84] and he eventually goes -[425.84 --> 428.76] and helps lead the Israelites out of Egypt. -[429.18 --> 430.22] That's how it's broken down. -[430.30 --> 431.72] Now, it's interesting, though, -[431.76 --> 437.46] because Moses was born to be Israel's deliverer. -[437.80 --> 440.18] He was born to help lead them out of the Promised Land. -[440.18 --> 444.12] And yet, not a word of that is mentioned to him -[444.12 --> 446.50] until he's 80 years old. -[446.50 --> 448.92] As we continue through this story, -[449.00 --> 449.78] remember that nugget, -[449.86 --> 450.86] because that's very important. -[451.90 --> 453.22] The other interesting note -[453.22 --> 454.84] before we really dig into this text -[454.84 --> 458.38] is the location that this story takes place. -[459.26 --> 460.88] Verse 12 of our text tells us this. -[461.54 --> 463.66] But the mountain where Moses was, -[463.74 --> 465.32] where this burning bush story takes place, -[465.38 --> 466.24] is the same mountain -[466.24 --> 467.92] that Moses will later receive -[467.92 --> 470.00] the Ten Commandments from God, -[470.18 --> 471.08] and the same mountain -[471.08 --> 472.74] that the Israelites will worship God. -[473.56 --> 475.38] Some details like that slip through sometimes -[475.38 --> 476.14] when we hear these stories, -[476.20 --> 477.04] but I found that fascinating -[477.04 --> 478.50] that God uses this place -[478.50 --> 480.44] as sort of a central hub -[480.44 --> 482.06] for a lot of the different things that he does. -[483.08 --> 484.26] Now to the text at hand. -[484.32 --> 486.56] There's two characteristics of God -[486.56 --> 488.50] that come out of this encounter -[488.50 --> 491.66] that deserve our attention today. -[492.42 --> 493.12] And so we're going to look -[493.12 --> 494.68] at these two characteristics now. -[495.12 --> 499.30] The first characteristic of God -[499.30 --> 500.66] that comes from this passage -[500.66 --> 503.36] is the power of God. -[504.68 --> 506.12] It's God's power. -[507.08 --> 508.18] God appears to Moses -[508.18 --> 509.50] in the form of a burning bush. -[509.86 --> 510.70] Now throughout the Bible, -[511.10 --> 512.38] God uses fire and smoke -[512.38 --> 513.90] to symbolize his presence. -[514.36 --> 515.48] Even nowadays, of course, -[515.58 --> 517.08] we will light candles -[517.08 --> 518.70] to symbolize Christ's presence -[518.70 --> 520.16] or the Holy Spirit's presence -[520.16 --> 520.86] in our service. -[521.46 --> 522.70] But here in this story, -[522.78 --> 524.88] this is much, much more -[524.88 --> 526.12] than a symbol. -[526.12 --> 529.80] This was God present -[529.80 --> 531.54] in the burning bush. -[532.70 --> 533.86] Now if you read your text, -[533.94 --> 535.48] it might seem a bit confusing at first -[535.48 --> 536.58] because verse 2 says -[536.58 --> 537.62] that an angel of the Lord -[537.62 --> 538.84] appeared to Moses in the bush. -[539.10 --> 540.20] But then right after that, -[540.28 --> 540.80] in verse 4, -[540.86 --> 542.32] it says that God called out -[542.32 --> 543.14] from the bush. -[543.88 --> 545.42] Now it's important to note this too, -[545.50 --> 546.96] just to clarify that a little bit. -[547.18 --> 548.46] In the early Old Testament, -[548.86 --> 549.52] in the early, -[549.62 --> 550.54] the Pentateuch especially, -[550.98 --> 552.52] angels were not simply -[552.52 --> 554.14] just messengers. -[554.14 --> 556.38] They weren't just messengers -[556.38 --> 558.06] delivering a message from God. -[558.52 --> 559.28] But in fact, -[559.36 --> 560.16] they were entities -[560.16 --> 562.00] that embodied the living God. -[562.86 --> 565.06] God came down to his people -[565.06 --> 567.02] in the presence of an angel -[567.02 --> 568.30] elsewhere in the Old Testament too, -[568.34 --> 569.22] like when God called down -[569.22 --> 570.74] to Hagar in Genesis 21, -[570.96 --> 572.34] or when God wrestled Jacob -[572.34 --> 573.40] in Genesis 32, -[573.70 --> 575.32] or when God spoke to Gideon -[575.32 --> 576.50] in Judges 6. -[576.64 --> 578.08] So this is the same thing here. -[578.28 --> 580.80] This is God present in the bush. -[581.06 --> 581.74] Nothing else. -[582.02 --> 583.10] Nothing less than that. -[585.14 --> 586.50] So we've got God in the bush. -[586.58 --> 587.56] He calls Moses over, -[587.64 --> 588.64] and then they've got this dialogue. -[588.82 --> 589.98] And read this with me right now. -[590.26 --> 591.56] Look at verses 4 to 6. -[591.98 --> 592.58] God calls out. -[592.62 --> 592.82] He says, -[592.92 --> 593.90] Moses, Moses. -[594.40 --> 595.34] Then Moses replies, -[595.42 --> 595.94] Here I am. -[596.82 --> 597.34] And God says, -[597.40 --> 598.24] Don't come any closer. -[600.08 --> 601.30] Take off your sandals, -[601.52 --> 602.86] for the place where you're standing -[602.86 --> 603.84] is holy ground. -[605.22 --> 605.94] That's interesting. -[606.72 --> 607.60] God then goes on, -[607.64 --> 608.00] and he says, -[608.08 --> 609.48] I am the God of your father, -[609.48 --> 610.78] the God of Abraham, -[611.02 --> 611.70] the God of Isaac, -[611.80 --> 612.50] the God of Jacob. -[612.50 --> 614.82] And after God says this to Moses, -[615.88 --> 618.62] Moses hides his face from him. -[619.96 --> 620.48] Why? -[622.52 --> 623.60] The text tells us -[623.60 --> 624.94] it's not in reverence to God. -[625.54 --> 627.46] It's not because of shame. -[627.60 --> 629.74] It's not because of guilt of past sins -[629.74 --> 631.04] that he's committed. -[632.04 --> 634.40] It's because he feared God. -[634.48 --> 636.84] He feared to look at God. -[637.74 --> 638.54] This was not guilt. -[638.68 --> 639.60] This was not shame. -[640.24 --> 641.28] This was fear -[641.28 --> 643.70] that caused Moses to hide his face. -[644.48 --> 645.32] This is huge. -[645.40 --> 646.40] This is a big detail. -[646.80 --> 648.18] There's a parallel story in the Bible, -[648.32 --> 649.26] Isaiah chapter 6, -[649.42 --> 651.74] where God calls out to Isaiah in a vision. -[652.02 --> 653.50] And it's a very similar situation, -[653.60 --> 654.36] just like this story. -[654.70 --> 656.06] Isaiah turns his face -[656.06 --> 657.74] from God in that story. -[658.44 --> 659.52] But in Isaiah's case, -[659.66 --> 661.26] it's because he feels unworthy. -[661.88 --> 662.92] It's because he feels -[662.92 --> 664.30] that he is too sinful. -[664.30 --> 666.26] He is unable to look at God -[666.26 --> 667.36] because of the sins -[667.36 --> 668.16] that he has committed. -[668.78 --> 670.92] And then God touches Isaiah's lips -[670.92 --> 671.54] and says, -[671.98 --> 673.28] your guilt is taken away. -[673.68 --> 675.76] Your sin is atoned for. -[677.52 --> 678.86] In fact, sin and guilt -[678.86 --> 680.98] are often the first thing acknowledged -[680.98 --> 682.80] when the living God -[682.80 --> 684.12] interacts with his people. -[684.80 --> 685.62] If you think about Jesus -[685.62 --> 686.54] when he walked this earth, -[686.82 --> 689.18] how often before he heals someone -[689.18 --> 690.62] or while he's healing someone, -[690.76 --> 693.08] is he also forgiving their sins? -[694.30 --> 695.06] Constantly. -[697.52 --> 699.20] But that's not here in this story. -[700.38 --> 701.04] Notice that? -[701.88 --> 702.24] Now remember, -[702.34 --> 703.60] Moses is very guilty of sin, -[703.76 --> 705.04] the least of which is murder. -[706.10 --> 707.38] And that's why he finds himself -[707.38 --> 708.44] in this neck of the woods anyways. -[708.58 --> 709.74] But this is not guilt or shame -[709.74 --> 710.60] that he's hiding its face. -[710.66 --> 714.20] It's because he is afraid of God. -[715.14 --> 716.68] Moral demand and forgiveness -[716.68 --> 719.02] play little to no role -[719.02 --> 721.80] in this encounter with God. -[722.94 --> 723.78] So here, -[724.48 --> 728.44] God's not portrayed as love or justice, -[729.36 --> 731.40] but he's portrayed as power. -[732.76 --> 733.90] Now of course God is love -[733.90 --> 735.14] and of course God is just. -[735.24 --> 736.24] That's not to minimize that. -[736.24 --> 737.10] But right here, -[737.18 --> 738.82] those characteristics aren't spoken of, -[739.14 --> 741.12] but his power is. -[743.10 --> 743.54] Moses, -[744.00 --> 746.76] standing in the powerful presence of God, -[746.76 --> 748.14] has to take his sandals off -[748.14 --> 749.64] and hide his face. -[751.84 --> 753.18] Now the power of God -[753.18 --> 754.72] is definitely a constant theme -[754.72 --> 755.20] in the Bible, -[755.20 --> 756.38] but I think it's actually one -[756.38 --> 758.34] that we often brush aside. -[759.96 --> 761.98] Perhaps it's because it's -[761.98 --> 762.90] incomprehensible. -[763.56 --> 764.46] Perhaps because -[764.46 --> 766.70] it's less attractive to us -[766.70 --> 767.54] than love -[767.54 --> 767.94] or -[767.94 --> 769.52] or his mercy. -[769.92 --> 770.94] Those ones we like, -[771.10 --> 771.84] they're attractive. -[771.98 --> 773.06] We can relate to those. -[773.06 --> 773.82] But his power? -[774.90 --> 775.84] Not so much. -[777.96 --> 779.34] We can't truly grasp -[779.34 --> 779.88] the magnitude -[779.88 --> 781.48] of any of God's characteristics, -[781.74 --> 781.84] though, -[781.88 --> 782.96] unless we understand -[782.96 --> 783.68] God's power. -[784.74 --> 785.42] God's grace, -[785.54 --> 786.04] God's mercy, -[786.14 --> 786.80] God's justice, -[786.96 --> 788.40] they are all predicated -[788.40 --> 789.76] on this very power -[789.76 --> 790.92] that God possesses. -[791.82 --> 792.62] His grace, -[792.76 --> 793.24] his mercy, -[793.32 --> 793.88] his justice, -[794.18 --> 794.88] none of them -[794.88 --> 796.22] hold up to anything -[796.22 --> 797.56] if it weren't -[797.56 --> 799.18] for God's power. -[800.32 --> 801.80] And Moses got that. -[803.06 --> 803.94] So he was afraid. -[805.96 --> 807.12] The distance between -[807.12 --> 808.12] God and man here -[808.12 --> 808.78] is highlighted -[808.78 --> 809.52] in this encounter -[809.52 --> 810.26] and that distance -[810.26 --> 811.36] is measured -[811.36 --> 812.34] by power. -[812.66 --> 813.74] Now all of us today, -[814.82 --> 816.20] this is applicable to us -[816.20 --> 817.20] because in our approaches -[817.20 --> 817.66] to God, -[817.76 --> 818.40] in our approaches -[818.40 --> 819.30] to other man, -[819.82 --> 821.00] it's going to behoove us -[821.00 --> 821.66] all to remember -[821.66 --> 823.26] that infinite distance -[823.26 --> 824.48] that exists -[824.48 --> 825.84] in the power -[825.84 --> 827.78] between us and God. -[829.12 --> 830.08] I think we can so easily -[830.08 --> 830.90] call God friend, -[831.02 --> 831.72] we can so easily -[831.72 --> 832.72] call God our father, -[832.72 --> 833.38] our savior, -[833.76 --> 835.12] we so easily blame him -[835.12 --> 836.30] when things are going wrong, -[836.44 --> 837.40] we get mad at him -[837.40 --> 838.54] when we don't get our way, -[838.72 --> 839.54] we get frustrated -[839.54 --> 840.22] when we don't understand -[840.22 --> 840.82] what's happening, -[841.00 --> 842.10] but how often -[842.10 --> 843.20] do we sit -[843.20 --> 844.50] and tremble -[844.50 --> 846.46] at the reality -[846.46 --> 847.36] that God -[847.36 --> 850.10] is so much -[850.10 --> 852.28] more infinitely powerful -[852.28 --> 854.06] than any of us? -[854.06 --> 856.92] and in a culture -[856.92 --> 858.44] that teaches us -[858.44 --> 859.14] that we are -[859.14 --> 860.38] our own gods, -[861.06 --> 863.42] this is incredibly important -[863.42 --> 864.34] for us to remember. -[866.38 --> 867.82] So that's the first characteristic. -[868.00 --> 868.74] God is powerful. -[869.22 --> 869.94] What's beautiful -[869.94 --> 870.96] in this passage though -[870.96 --> 872.28] is that in -[872.28 --> 873.52] his infinite -[873.52 --> 874.68] and ultimate power, -[874.94 --> 876.62] we see a second characteristic -[876.62 --> 878.20] come to the top -[878.20 --> 879.32] and shine through. -[879.32 --> 881.52] And this is a characteristic -[881.52 --> 882.74] that often doesn't -[882.74 --> 884.18] accompany power. -[885.78 --> 886.68] And that is that -[886.68 --> 887.84] God is concerned -[887.84 --> 889.76] for his people. -[891.42 --> 892.90] That's the sole reason -[892.90 --> 893.66] for this encounter -[893.66 --> 894.38] in the first place. -[894.84 --> 896.46] God was concerned -[896.46 --> 897.78] for his people. -[899.30 --> 900.86] Just before this passage, -[901.06 --> 902.18] the last three verses -[902.18 --> 903.20] in Exodus 2, -[903.40 --> 904.76] there's four terms used -[904.76 --> 908.26] to describe God's response -[908.26 --> 909.16] to his people's suffering. -[909.68 --> 910.44] So if you've got your Bibles, -[910.54 --> 911.16] you can look at that too. -[911.22 --> 912.58] Exodus 2, 23 to 25. -[912.90 --> 913.52] God heard -[913.52 --> 914.94] his people's groaning. -[915.34 --> 916.18] He remembered -[916.18 --> 917.62] his promises to them. -[917.70 --> 918.34] He saw -[918.34 --> 919.34] their suffering -[919.34 --> 920.46] and he knew -[920.46 --> 921.46] they needed saving. -[922.46 --> 923.16] God heard, -[923.38 --> 923.86] remembered, -[924.24 --> 924.52] saw, -[924.68 --> 925.14] and knew. -[925.70 --> 926.62] And then in this text -[926.62 --> 927.56] that we read to today, -[928.08 --> 928.60] God -[928.60 --> 931.66] uses the same language. -[932.82 --> 933.38] You can read that -[933.38 --> 934.36] in verse 7 -[934.36 --> 935.24] through 10. -[935.34 --> 936.22] God saw the misery -[936.22 --> 936.76] of his people. -[936.98 --> 938.24] He heard them crying out. -[939.12 --> 940.20] The people's cries -[940.20 --> 940.74] reached him -[940.74 --> 941.28] and he saw -[941.28 --> 942.18] how they were being oppressed. -[942.52 --> 943.86] So because God saw this, -[944.06 --> 945.26] he remembered his people -[945.26 --> 946.52] and he tells Moses -[946.52 --> 947.32] that he has come down -[947.32 --> 948.00] to save him. -[949.48 --> 950.16] All of this -[950.16 --> 951.00] because he is concerned -[951.00 --> 951.64] for his people. -[953.48 --> 954.46] And the result -[954.46 --> 955.40] of his concern -[955.40 --> 956.66] are the words -[956.66 --> 957.80] of Exodus 3, -[957.98 --> 959.20] verse 8 -[959.20 --> 960.58] in our text today. -[961.18 --> 964.08] I have come down. -[965.36 --> 966.36] God had come down -[966.36 --> 966.96] to his people -[966.96 --> 968.10] and he was about -[968.10 --> 969.84] to divinely intervene -[969.84 --> 971.64] to get them out of Egypt -[971.64 --> 972.80] and into the promised land. -[974.08 --> 974.86] And then do you know -[974.86 --> 975.84] how the story goes from there? -[976.64 --> 977.84] God does come down. -[978.52 --> 979.42] He saves his people -[979.42 --> 979.88] from Egypt. -[980.00 --> 980.74] He leads them -[980.74 --> 981.94] to the promised land -[981.94 --> 983.16] and establishes them there. -[983.92 --> 984.92] And then generations -[984.92 --> 985.74] go by -[985.74 --> 987.34] and the generations -[987.34 --> 988.46] come and they go -[988.46 --> 989.30] and God's people, -[989.50 --> 990.56] while they're stubborn, -[990.56 --> 992.46] they would disobey God -[992.46 --> 993.66] and God's calling -[993.66 --> 994.42] on their lives. -[994.50 --> 995.12] They would sin -[995.12 --> 996.22] and they would worship idols -[996.22 --> 997.04] and they would bow down -[997.04 --> 997.74] to false gods -[997.74 --> 999.04] and they would take over -[999.04 --> 999.56] the customs -[999.56 --> 1000.84] of the people around them. -[1000.96 --> 1001.84] So much so that -[1001.84 --> 1002.66] it gets really bad. -[1002.72 --> 1003.62] They start sacrificing -[1003.62 --> 1004.46] their own children -[1004.46 --> 1006.00] to these false gods. -[1006.20 --> 1007.46] And it gets really, -[1007.66 --> 1008.94] really bad. -[1010.68 --> 1011.84] And God's watching -[1011.84 --> 1012.94] the whole time. -[1013.94 --> 1014.70] And he would always -[1014.70 --> 1015.28] be listening. -[1016.34 --> 1017.56] He'd always be speaking -[1017.56 --> 1018.10] to them, -[1018.52 --> 1019.68] telling them to turn to him. -[1021.24 --> 1022.08] But they don't. -[1023.68 --> 1024.50] And they suffer -[1024.50 --> 1026.48] again and again. -[1026.84 --> 1027.76] They become captives. -[1027.98 --> 1028.80] They become captives -[1028.80 --> 1029.42] to Assyria. -[1029.50 --> 1030.30] They become captives -[1030.30 --> 1030.84] to Babylon. -[1031.10 --> 1031.82] They become captives -[1031.82 --> 1032.44] to Persia. -[1034.06 --> 1034.98] Until one day, -[1036.84 --> 1037.80] God's concern -[1037.80 --> 1039.94] culminates -[1039.94 --> 1041.94] in Bethlehem -[1041.94 --> 1043.44] where once again -[1043.44 --> 1044.28] he comes down -[1044.28 --> 1045.98] as a baby this time, -[1046.06 --> 1046.94] not in a burning bush, -[1046.94 --> 1048.48] but with the same intentions, -[1048.60 --> 1050.36] to save his people. -[1052.72 --> 1054.62] This baby is born, -[1054.70 --> 1055.42] the Son of God, -[1055.46 --> 1056.48] who grows into this man, -[1056.54 --> 1057.44] who dies on a cross -[1057.44 --> 1058.64] and is risen from the dead -[1058.64 --> 1059.88] and he ultimately -[1059.88 --> 1061.22] defeats sin and death -[1061.22 --> 1062.36] for good. -[1064.66 --> 1066.16] See, God's concern -[1066.16 --> 1066.92] for his people -[1066.92 --> 1068.20] has been a permanent fixture. -[1070.70 --> 1071.96] He was concerned for them -[1071.96 --> 1072.86] when they were captives -[1072.86 --> 1073.42] in Egypt. -[1073.58 --> 1074.52] He was concerned for them -[1074.52 --> 1075.32] when they were captives -[1075.32 --> 1076.24] to their own sin -[1076.24 --> 1077.06] in the promised land. -[1077.06 --> 1078.40] He was concerned for them -[1078.40 --> 1081.76] when they were in captivity -[1081.76 --> 1082.56] in their own sins, -[1082.60 --> 1083.12] like I said. -[1083.40 --> 1085.24] He was concerned for them -[1085.24 --> 1086.04] when they were awaiting -[1086.04 --> 1086.66] this Messiah. -[1086.76 --> 1087.68] He was concerned for them -[1087.68 --> 1088.52] when the Messiah came -[1088.52 --> 1089.86] and they did not recognize him. -[1090.54 --> 1091.30] And brothers and sisters, -[1091.42 --> 1093.26] his concern for his people -[1093.26 --> 1094.72] continues today. -[1094.72 --> 1098.60] So whether you are here -[1098.60 --> 1099.16] this morning, -[1099.30 --> 1100.08] here in the sanctuary, -[1100.30 --> 1101.06] there in the foyer, -[1101.26 --> 1102.24] at home as well, -[1103.24 --> 1104.92] and you are being held captive -[1104.92 --> 1105.62] by depression -[1105.62 --> 1107.94] or you're being held captive -[1107.94 --> 1108.62] by grief -[1108.62 --> 1110.28] or by worry -[1110.28 --> 1112.28] or by fear -[1112.28 --> 1113.48] or by confusion -[1113.48 --> 1115.22] or by anxiety -[1115.22 --> 1116.12] or by frustration -[1116.12 --> 1116.94] or by pain -[1116.94 --> 1118.54] or by whatever affliction -[1118.54 --> 1119.40] you find yourself -[1119.40 --> 1120.30] going through today, -[1120.30 --> 1123.78] God is concerned -[1123.78 --> 1124.58] for his people. -[1128.32 --> 1129.48] So much so -[1129.48 --> 1130.64] that he came down -[1130.64 --> 1131.34] a third time -[1131.34 --> 1132.40] permanently -[1132.40 --> 1133.34] with his Holy Spirit -[1133.34 --> 1134.04] to be with -[1134.04 --> 1135.10] and to walk with -[1135.10 --> 1135.96] his people. -[1137.52 --> 1138.96] The Father came down -[1138.96 --> 1139.86] in a burning bush -[1139.86 --> 1140.60] to save his people -[1140.60 --> 1141.58] from slavery in Egypt. -[1141.76 --> 1142.96] The Son came down -[1142.96 --> 1143.78] in Bethlehem -[1143.78 --> 1144.52] to save his people -[1144.52 --> 1145.04] from death. -[1145.36 --> 1146.14] And the Holy Spirit -[1146.14 --> 1146.72] came down -[1146.72 --> 1148.14] to save his people -[1148.14 --> 1150.04] from whatever captivity -[1150.04 --> 1151.28] that life's trials -[1151.28 --> 1152.04] and temptations -[1152.04 --> 1152.70] bring on you. -[1152.98 --> 1153.80] God is here -[1153.80 --> 1154.72] not to remove -[1154.72 --> 1155.30] those trials -[1155.30 --> 1155.98] and temptations -[1155.98 --> 1157.42] but to bear it with us, -[1157.50 --> 1158.62] to walk with us, -[1158.72 --> 1159.90] to help us through it, -[1160.04 --> 1161.98] and to be with us -[1161.98 --> 1163.44] in whatever captivity -[1163.44 --> 1164.50] we find ourselves. -[1164.82 --> 1165.48] And even though -[1165.48 --> 1166.52] it may not seem like that -[1166.52 --> 1167.18] all the time, -[1167.36 --> 1168.88] he is holding us all -[1168.88 --> 1169.84] in hands -[1169.84 --> 1170.86] more powerful -[1170.86 --> 1171.88] than we ever care -[1171.88 --> 1172.50] to admit -[1172.50 --> 1173.86] or ever -[1173.86 --> 1176.14] can comprehend. -[1178.14 --> 1178.78] And those two -[1178.78 --> 1179.84] characteristics of God, -[1179.90 --> 1180.48] his power -[1180.48 --> 1181.84] and his concern, -[1182.84 --> 1183.46] they go together -[1183.46 --> 1184.22] so beautifully -[1184.22 --> 1187.14] that my prayer -[1187.14 --> 1187.74] for us today -[1187.74 --> 1188.24] is that we can -[1188.24 --> 1189.24] just simply begin -[1189.24 --> 1190.66] to wrap our heads -[1190.66 --> 1192.42] around the beautiful -[1192.42 --> 1193.42] truth that is -[1193.42 --> 1194.32] both of those things. -[1197.30 --> 1198.06] The last thing -[1198.06 --> 1198.66] I'd like to look at -[1198.66 --> 1199.50] today from this passage -[1199.50 --> 1199.86] is this. -[1199.92 --> 1201.42] It's Moses' response. -[1201.84 --> 1202.68] Now in order to do that -[1202.68 --> 1203.34] though, we have to remember -[1203.34 --> 1204.06] his context -[1204.06 --> 1205.06] just a little bit. -[1205.94 --> 1206.32] Now remember, -[1206.44 --> 1207.20] Moses was working -[1207.20 --> 1208.04] as a shepherd -[1208.04 --> 1209.96] for about 40 years -[1209.96 --> 1211.50] before this time happened. -[1211.98 --> 1212.56] Now for someone -[1212.56 --> 1213.48] of his knowledge, -[1213.84 --> 1215.08] for someone of his education -[1215.08 --> 1215.64] in past, -[1215.92 --> 1216.50] this would have been -[1216.50 --> 1217.02] considered -[1217.02 --> 1218.58] very poor employment -[1218.58 --> 1219.20] actually. -[1220.16 --> 1221.42] Very poor employment. -[1221.90 --> 1222.32] And yet, -[1223.00 --> 1223.26] Moses -[1223.26 --> 1224.78] was very content -[1224.78 --> 1225.72] doing this. -[1226.66 --> 1227.30] He was happy -[1227.30 --> 1227.92] to be a shepherd -[1227.92 --> 1228.40] in Midian. -[1228.74 --> 1229.52] He was satisfied. -[1229.70 --> 1230.20] He was meek -[1230.20 --> 1230.72] and content -[1230.72 --> 1231.70] and he was humble -[1231.70 --> 1232.46] as he worked -[1232.46 --> 1232.94] as a shepherd. -[1233.14 --> 1233.98] And these are all things -[1233.98 --> 1235.10] that he is quite celebrated -[1235.10 --> 1236.38] for in the Bible. -[1237.28 --> 1237.88] Numbers 12, -[1237.94 --> 1238.38] verse 3 -[1238.38 --> 1239.14] says this. -[1239.34 --> 1239.52] It says, -[1239.72 --> 1241.72] Moses was a very humble man, -[1241.86 --> 1242.82] more humble -[1242.82 --> 1244.02] than anyone -[1244.02 --> 1245.28] else -[1245.28 --> 1246.16] on the face -[1246.16 --> 1247.20] of the earth. -[1248.12 --> 1248.80] Isn't that something? -[1248.86 --> 1249.50] That's quite a thing -[1249.50 --> 1250.68] to be remembered for. -[1252.00 --> 1252.54] Now keep in mind, -[1252.60 --> 1253.58] Moses wrote numbers, -[1253.72 --> 1254.18] so like, -[1254.24 --> 1255.36] it's a little bit awkward -[1255.36 --> 1256.36] to write that about yourself, -[1256.52 --> 1257.74] but it's a little grain of salt. -[1257.82 --> 1258.52] No, I'm kidding, of course. -[1258.74 --> 1259.96] We can take that as truth, -[1260.04 --> 1261.28] that Moses was -[1261.28 --> 1262.02] humble. -[1262.54 --> 1263.36] He was content, -[1263.36 --> 1264.50] he was meek, -[1265.30 --> 1266.54] and he was far from the man -[1266.54 --> 1267.88] he was earlier in his life, -[1268.78 --> 1269.54] when he was powerful -[1269.54 --> 1270.38] and educated -[1270.38 --> 1271.58] and he had means -[1271.58 --> 1272.74] and a position of authority -[1272.74 --> 1274.02] and had ultimate access -[1274.02 --> 1274.56] to Pharaoh. -[1276.00 --> 1276.76] In fact, -[1277.06 --> 1279.04] if this were anybody else's plan -[1279.04 --> 1279.72] other than God's, -[1279.72 --> 1280.44] you would have thought -[1280.44 --> 1282.02] that Moses would have been -[1282.02 --> 1282.80] approached earlier -[1282.80 --> 1284.36] when he had access to Pharaoh, -[1284.42 --> 1285.18] when he had means -[1285.18 --> 1286.08] and he had authority -[1286.08 --> 1287.28] and he had all this power. -[1288.32 --> 1289.48] To the human mind, -[1289.54 --> 1290.86] that makes the most sense. -[1291.86 --> 1293.04] That's how we function. -[1294.24 --> 1295.18] But this wasn't -[1295.18 --> 1296.18] someone else's plan, -[1296.24 --> 1297.08] this was God's plan. -[1297.20 --> 1297.86] God was patient. -[1298.38 --> 1298.84] He waited. -[1299.92 --> 1301.62] God waited until Moses had fled -[1301.62 --> 1303.00] and he was a fugitive -[1303.00 --> 1304.50] and he tended sheep -[1304.50 --> 1305.86] for 40 years in Midian -[1305.86 --> 1306.94] in the middle of nowhere -[1306.94 --> 1308.24] because God needed Moses -[1308.24 --> 1309.68] to stop being the brash, -[1310.24 --> 1310.88] know-it-all, -[1311.34 --> 1312.98] fix things on his own man -[1312.98 --> 1313.72] he once was -[1313.72 --> 1314.94] because apparently -[1314.94 --> 1315.78] all that ever led Moses -[1315.78 --> 1316.98] to do was murder someone. -[1318.74 --> 1319.92] No, God needed to be patient -[1319.92 --> 1320.78] and he needed to wait -[1320.78 --> 1321.58] for Moses to become -[1321.58 --> 1322.16] meek and humble -[1322.16 --> 1323.00] because then -[1323.00 --> 1324.70] it was God's power -[1324.70 --> 1326.02] that saved his people. -[1327.02 --> 1328.32] It wasn't Moses' position, -[1328.56 --> 1329.90] it wasn't Moses' education, -[1330.36 --> 1331.76] it wasn't Moses' means. -[1334.02 --> 1334.88] It's interesting though, -[1334.92 --> 1336.44] Moses almost became too meek, -[1336.58 --> 1337.50] he almost became too humble -[1337.50 --> 1339.16] because when God asks Moses -[1339.16 --> 1339.80] at the burning bush -[1339.80 --> 1340.62] to go bring his people -[1340.62 --> 1341.20] out of Egypt, -[1341.60 --> 1343.00] Moses replies in verse 11 -[1343.00 --> 1344.66] with who am I? -[1344.74 --> 1345.76] Who am I to do this? -[1345.76 --> 1348.62] In fact, -[1348.70 --> 1349.40] later in this chapter -[1349.40 --> 1350.16] we didn't get to that, -[1350.24 --> 1351.16] Moses thinks of a whole bunch -[1351.16 --> 1352.00] of reasons why he should -[1352.00 --> 1352.68] not be doing this. -[1352.88 --> 1353.40] What if the people -[1353.40 --> 1354.06] don't believe me, -[1354.10 --> 1354.36] he says. -[1354.40 --> 1355.34] I'm not really eloquent, -[1355.46 --> 1356.58] I can't speak in front of people, -[1356.62 --> 1357.54] this isn't a job for me -[1357.54 --> 1358.90] and after all his excuses, -[1359.44 --> 1360.38] he simply looks at God -[1360.38 --> 1360.64] and he says, -[1360.74 --> 1360.98] God, -[1361.22 --> 1364.08] please just send someone else. -[1368.52 --> 1369.42] His response maybe -[1369.42 --> 1370.48] shouldn't be that surprising -[1370.48 --> 1371.32] to us though, right? -[1373.60 --> 1374.82] We ask the same questions, -[1374.90 --> 1375.20] don't we? -[1376.76 --> 1377.20] God, -[1377.24 --> 1378.34] I can't pray for that person, -[1378.42 --> 1379.04] not here, -[1379.16 --> 1379.62] not now, -[1379.70 --> 1380.38] not publicly. -[1381.76 --> 1382.20] God, -[1382.24 --> 1384.14] I'm not spiritually mature enough -[1384.14 --> 1385.12] to lead that ministry. -[1387.32 --> 1387.76] God, -[1387.80 --> 1388.40] I'm not eloquent. -[1388.62 --> 1390.56] I can't speak your gospel -[1390.56 --> 1391.70] to people I don't know. -[1393.26 --> 1393.70] God, -[1393.74 --> 1395.12] I don't want to be an elder, -[1395.34 --> 1395.96] just God, -[1396.34 --> 1398.40] please send someone else. -[1401.74 --> 1403.30] The ironic problem is -[1403.30 --> 1405.42] when we feel this way, -[1405.76 --> 1408.22] it is exactly the kind of person -[1408.22 --> 1409.58] that God wants to use -[1409.58 --> 1411.20] to fulfill his kingdom purposes. -[1413.38 --> 1414.68] When we accept the fact -[1414.68 --> 1415.98] that maybe we don't have -[1415.98 --> 1416.62] what it takes -[1416.62 --> 1418.10] to do all of the things -[1418.10 --> 1419.48] God be me calling us to do, -[1420.28 --> 1421.34] then it's God -[1421.34 --> 1422.62] who gets the glory -[1422.62 --> 1424.62] for accomplishing his purposes -[1424.62 --> 1425.44] through us. -[1425.44 --> 1426.44] God's sake. -[1426.44 --> 1428.18] So even though Moses -[1428.18 --> 1429.42] responded with excuses -[1429.42 --> 1430.38] and fear -[1430.38 --> 1431.68] and a whole lot of hesitation, -[1432.42 --> 1433.26] God picked him up, -[1433.96 --> 1434.98] he sent him out, -[1435.24 --> 1436.52] and he used him -[1436.52 --> 1437.66] in all his limitations, -[1437.66 --> 1438.62] and Moses became -[1438.62 --> 1441.16] one of the greatest fathers -[1441.16 --> 1441.94] of our faith -[1441.94 --> 1443.22] the world has ever known. -[1443.22 --> 1447.50] Now the internet, -[1448.18 --> 1449.66] it's a very interesting place. -[1451.20 --> 1452.42] It's got tons of stuff, -[1452.54 --> 1453.34] wormholes that you can -[1453.34 --> 1454.00] get sucked into, -[1454.18 --> 1455.14] videos that are completely -[1455.14 --> 1456.72] used to watch, -[1457.06 --> 1457.78] just a big waste -[1457.78 --> 1458.40] of time generally, -[1458.48 --> 1459.90] but every once in a while -[1459.90 --> 1461.08] it gives you this -[1461.08 --> 1462.42] beautiful gem -[1462.42 --> 1463.58] that you can use -[1463.58 --> 1464.58] in a certain situation. -[1465.72 --> 1466.32] And as I was -[1466.32 --> 1467.86] writing this message, -[1468.08 --> 1469.42] I saw this meme, -[1469.54 --> 1470.02] this picture, -[1470.02 --> 1471.12] and it sums up -[1471.12 --> 1472.14] this point so beautifully. -[1472.96 --> 1473.68] See, Moses thought -[1473.68 --> 1474.54] he wasn't qualified -[1474.54 --> 1475.72] to be able to fulfill -[1475.72 --> 1477.50] God's calling for him, -[1477.70 --> 1478.94] but the truth is -[1478.94 --> 1481.36] God doesn't call -[1481.36 --> 1482.04] the qualified. -[1482.88 --> 1484.62] God qualifies the called. -[1486.32 --> 1487.40] God doesn't call -[1487.40 --> 1488.26] the qualified. -[1488.90 --> 1490.24] He qualifies the called. -[1490.30 --> 1491.04] Who saw that meme? -[1491.10 --> 1492.16] Anybody see a meme like that? -[1492.92 --> 1493.84] I could have possibly -[1493.84 --> 1494.74] taken credit for this. -[1494.78 --> 1495.34] That's too bad. -[1496.00 --> 1496.60] This is why you shouldn't -[1496.60 --> 1497.64] preface things like this. -[1497.90 --> 1498.72] That would have been brilliant, -[1498.86 --> 1498.96] hey? -[1500.02 --> 1501.10] God doesn't call -[1501.10 --> 1501.80] the qualified. -[1502.10 --> 1503.68] He qualifies the called. -[1503.94 --> 1504.86] See, we're all called. -[1505.70 --> 1506.30] All of us. -[1506.34 --> 1506.90] We're all called. -[1506.98 --> 1507.74] We're called to love. -[1508.02 --> 1508.90] We're called to serve. -[1509.14 --> 1509.94] We're called to forgive. -[1510.16 --> 1511.00] We're called to submit -[1511.00 --> 1512.04] to God. -[1513.58 --> 1514.38] Perhaps you don't always -[1514.38 --> 1515.68] feel qualified to lead -[1515.68 --> 1517.04] or to pray in front of people -[1517.04 --> 1518.34] or to love people -[1518.34 --> 1519.46] who are difficult to love -[1519.46 --> 1520.18] or to serve -[1520.18 --> 1521.36] in different capacities, -[1521.72 --> 1522.66] but in some way -[1522.66 --> 1523.46] or another, church, -[1524.54 --> 1525.46] you're the body of Christ. -[1525.54 --> 1526.48] We're all the body of Christ. -[1526.58 --> 1527.24] We are all called -[1527.24 --> 1527.96] to these things. -[1527.96 --> 1530.42] Take our church's -[1530.42 --> 1531.02] mission statement, -[1531.12 --> 1531.52] for example. -[1531.62 --> 1532.66] Perhaps gathering -[1532.66 --> 1533.42] or growing -[1533.42 --> 1534.74] or going right now -[1534.74 --> 1535.92] just seems difficult. -[1536.14 --> 1537.32] It seems too hard for us. -[1537.38 --> 1538.78] It seems that we're not -[1538.78 --> 1539.76] qualified to do that. -[1540.68 --> 1541.58] It's too difficult -[1541.58 --> 1542.46] for us to accomplish. -[1544.42 --> 1546.18] But God doesn't call us -[1546.18 --> 1546.66] to these things -[1546.66 --> 1547.54] because we're qualified. -[1549.24 --> 1550.26] It's quite the opposite, -[1550.42 --> 1550.58] actually. -[1550.64 --> 1551.56] God calls us -[1551.56 --> 1552.38] to do these things -[1552.38 --> 1553.72] in spite of our qualifications. -[1553.72 --> 1553.96] Christians. -[1556.02 --> 1556.72] It's only then -[1556.72 --> 1557.54] that God gets to be -[1557.54 --> 1558.62] ultimately glorified. -[1561.02 --> 1561.86] The Apostle Paul -[1561.86 --> 1563.06] says this so beautifully -[1563.06 --> 1563.70] in one of his letters -[1563.70 --> 1565.48] to the church in Corinth. -[1565.64 --> 1566.44] He says this thousands -[1566.44 --> 1567.44] and thousands of years later. -[1567.54 --> 1568.02] He says this. -[1568.06 --> 1568.28] He says, -[1568.36 --> 1569.08] Brothers and sisters, -[1569.88 --> 1571.04] this is not actually very kind, -[1571.10 --> 1571.92] but it's a really good point. -[1572.00 --> 1572.12] He's like, -[1572.18 --> 1572.78] Brothers and sisters, -[1572.96 --> 1573.98] not many of you -[1573.98 --> 1574.78] were wise -[1574.78 --> 1576.02] by human standards. -[1577.10 --> 1578.48] Not many were influential. -[1579.68 --> 1581.34] Not many are of noble birth. -[1581.34 --> 1584.30] But God chose -[1584.30 --> 1585.76] the foolish things -[1585.76 --> 1586.72] of this world -[1586.72 --> 1588.68] to shame the wise. -[1589.74 --> 1591.20] God chose the weak things -[1591.20 --> 1591.86] of the world -[1591.86 --> 1594.04] to shame the strong -[1594.04 --> 1596.10] so that no one -[1596.10 --> 1597.66] may boast before him. -[1598.14 --> 1599.20] It is because of him -[1599.20 --> 1601.18] that you are in Christ Jesus. -[1602.36 --> 1603.48] Therefore, as it is written, -[1604.38 --> 1605.64] let the one who boasts -[1605.64 --> 1607.60] boast in the Lord. -[1607.60 --> 1612.10] God doesn't call the qualified. -[1612.54 --> 1614.04] He qualifies the called. -[1615.90 --> 1616.92] So brothers and sisters -[1616.92 --> 1618.02] of Emanuel CRC -[1618.02 --> 1618.68] and anybody else -[1618.68 --> 1619.78] watching online right now, -[1620.46 --> 1621.36] please remember this, -[1621.42 --> 1623.74] that God is more powerful -[1623.74 --> 1625.88] than we can ever comprehend. -[1627.36 --> 1628.58] And may we be deeply, -[1628.82 --> 1629.80] deeply affected -[1629.80 --> 1631.84] by the infinite distance -[1631.84 --> 1632.48] there is -[1632.48 --> 1634.14] between God's power -[1634.14 --> 1635.42] and our own. -[1635.42 --> 1637.26] Second, -[1637.40 --> 1638.46] God is deeply -[1638.46 --> 1639.56] concerned -[1639.56 --> 1640.86] for you. -[1642.18 --> 1643.00] No matter what -[1643.00 --> 1643.88] you are going through, -[1644.80 --> 1645.66] God is listening, -[1645.86 --> 1646.60] God is watching, -[1646.76 --> 1647.36] He is hearing, -[1647.48 --> 1648.22] and He is remembering -[1648.22 --> 1649.44] His promises to you. -[1650.70 --> 1651.74] He is with you always -[1651.74 --> 1653.08] to the very end -[1653.08 --> 1653.82] of the age. -[1655.26 --> 1656.02] And finally, -[1656.10 --> 1656.56] God is not -[1656.56 --> 1657.72] calling you -[1657.72 --> 1658.66] because you are qualified. -[1660.38 --> 1661.86] He qualifies you -[1661.86 --> 1663.22] to fulfill -[1663.22 --> 1664.46] His calling. -[1665.42 --> 1666.58] Don't mix those up. -[1667.96 --> 1668.40] Amen? -[1669.96 --> 1670.98] Let me pray with you. -[1671.24 --> 1671.68] Father God, -[1671.96 --> 1673.32] we thank You -[1673.32 --> 1673.92] for this story. -[1674.02 --> 1674.38] We thank You -[1674.38 --> 1674.94] for Moses -[1674.94 --> 1676.02] and the burning bush. -[1676.24 --> 1676.74] We thank You -[1676.74 --> 1677.84] for the power -[1677.84 --> 1679.64] that comes -[1679.64 --> 1680.42] through this story. -[1681.12 --> 1681.70] We thank You -[1681.70 --> 1682.46] for Your concern -[1682.46 --> 1683.18] for Your people, -[1683.46 --> 1684.38] why You came down -[1684.38 --> 1685.14] in Egypt, -[1685.34 --> 1686.12] why You came down -[1686.12 --> 1686.76] in Bethlehem, -[1686.88 --> 1687.62] why You came down -[1687.62 --> 1688.32] at Pentecost. -[1690.08 --> 1690.64] And God, -[1690.68 --> 1691.14] we thank You -[1691.14 --> 1692.56] that You are with us. -[1692.56 --> 1694.20] You are powerfully, -[1694.78 --> 1696.50] concerningly with us. -[1698.24 --> 1698.68] And so God, -[1698.74 --> 1700.26] may we respond accordingly. -[1700.38 --> 1701.02] May we know -[1701.02 --> 1702.60] that You are in charge -[1702.60 --> 1703.34] of all things, -[1704.48 --> 1705.92] that You are thinking of us, -[1705.98 --> 1707.34] have us in Your heart, -[1707.70 --> 1708.72] and that You call us -[1708.72 --> 1709.62] to live lives -[1709.62 --> 1710.96] of love and service -[1710.96 --> 1711.68] and gratitude -[1711.68 --> 1712.60] in this world. -[1713.12 --> 1714.48] So may we boldly -[1714.48 --> 1715.52] step forward -[1715.52 --> 1716.70] in that knowledge. -[1717.48 --> 1718.32] May we go forward -[1718.32 --> 1719.54] knowing that You are with us -[1719.54 --> 1721.50] and that You qualify us -[1721.50 --> 1722.52] to live out this calling. -[1723.26 --> 1724.32] But let us make excuses. -[1727.28 --> 1727.94] Let us live -[1727.94 --> 1728.72] as You call us to live. -[1728.76 --> 1729.18] We pray this -[1729.18 --> 1730.28] in Your Son's precious name. -[1730.56 --> 1730.78] Amen. diff --git a/A Changed Heart, Not a Change of Circumstances (Sermon)_summary.txt b/A Changed Heart, Not a Change of Circumstances (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 25338ea2ea45332e84ede78d3b364d44ced51058..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/A Changed Heart, Not a Change of Circumstances (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,36 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction to Habakkuk 3 -• Story of John Newton's transformation from a slaver to a minister -• Similar transformation story of the Apostle Paul -• Explanation that these stories illustrate the power of God's transforming work in individuals' lives -• Reading and explanation of Habakkuk 3, verses 1-17 -• Habakkuk's struggles with God over injustice and suffering -• The importance of expressing complaints and frustrations to God -• God's ability to handle anger, yelling, and challenges from His people -• Habakkuk's transformation from protest to prayer in chapter 3 -• The need for a change of heart rather than circumstances when dealing with adversity -• Habakkuk's encounter with God changes his perspective and actions -• The relationship between a changed heart and the responsibility to remember rightly and view life through virtues -• Habakkuk learns to trust God's plan, offers prayers of trust and confidence, and grows in reverence and awe for who God is -• The importance of remembering what God has done, looking at past deeds through a sovereign worldview -• Remembering God's fame, deeds, and sovereignty over creation -• Understanding that there are details beyond human comprehension but trusting that they are enough to drive virtues and action. -• Habakkuk mentions plagues, pestilence, Cushan, and Midian to situate God's redemption in a historical reality. -• The prayer situates Habakkuk in the region where Mount Sinai is located, referencing God meeting Moses and the people at Sinai. -• The place names in the prayer have a poetic and theological account of God's working in the world to deliver Israel from Egypt. -• Habakkuk sees God carrying David through battles against the Philistines, securing victory for the Israelites in Hezekiah's time, and punishing Sennacherib. -• The unjust leaders of Judah will face justice from God in exile to Babylon, with Babylon then facing justice in the form of Cyrus the Persian. -• Joseph's story and the concept that God can turn evil into good -• The stories of Job and Paul, who trusted in God despite suffering -• The idea that God is able to overcome even death and transform it into a source of salvation -• The importance of remembering that God knows us individually and has control over our lives -• The need for people to be present with each other and support one another in their struggles -• Viewing life through the lens of valued virtues, which helps us see our circumstances in a new light -• Habakkuk's message of hope, faith, and love as virtues to navigate life's struggles -• The importance of remembering rightly and being part of a community that does the same -• God speaking directly through scripture, emphasizing the language of virtue and vice -• Trusting in God's plan and purpose for establishing his kingdom and giving oneself in trust -• Worshiping God even in times of wrecked moments with a changed heart -• The importance of sharing one's story of transformation through faith in Jesus -• Sharing the gospel with others, including family, friends, and neighbors -• Overcoming struggles and darkness by holding on to faith in Jesus -• God's presence and love being available even in times of hopelessness and doubt \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/A Changed Heart, Not a Change of Circumstances (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/A Changed Heart, Not a Change of Circumstances (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b1f5eea8e2b0972120b497e118ec1c39f57e3cab..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/A Changed Heart, Not a Change of Circumstances (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,690 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 7.62] We're going to take some time today and look at Habakkuk 3. -[8.04 --> 10.60] We're going to read verse 1 to 16, and we'll get to that in a moment. -[10.70 --> 17.00] First, let me just acknowledge that what you're seeing on screen this week looks a little different than what you have seen in the past. -[17.58 --> 32.10] We are ever adapting and trying to find ways to better communicate and better translate the message across the air and through your screens into your living room and find ways to do that well. -[32.30 --> 35.88] And so we've put together this side set. -[36.00 --> 38.44] I'm still here in church, in the sanctuary. -[38.64 --> 42.32] There are, you know, nine other people here with me as well. -[42.32 --> 48.78] But it just looks a little different, and we hope it looks a little bit better as you are sitting where you are. -[49.84 --> 58.38] Before we read together, I just want to introduce kind of where we're going, and then we'll read so you can see that along the way. -[58.64 --> 60.46] And do that with a bit of a story. -[60.58 --> 64.06] Now, some of you know the story of John Newton. -[64.64 --> 70.86] John Newton was an 18th century sailor and slaver on a ship called the Greyhound. -[70.86 --> 80.18] Now, at one time in the mid-18th century, they were sailing in the North Atlantic, and a storm rose up and had all but wrecked the ship. -[80.28 --> 93.48] The masts were broken, the sails were torn, and all of the sailors had spent hours and days using the pumps, the crank pumps, to try and empty out the hull of the ship, of the water that was gathering. -[93.48 --> 107.70] Newton has been exhausted from days of this labor, and so instead of taking a break, he ends up tying himself to the helm of the ship so that he might steer it, even as he struggles with exhaustion. -[108.66 --> 112.08] Now, Newton's story is a special one. -[112.08 --> 121.44] Newton, he had a reputation for profanity and coarseness and debauchery that shocked even other sailors during that day. -[122.08 --> 125.26] He was known as the Great Blasphemer. -[125.26 --> 133.96] Now, the story goes, actually, that Newton was an evangelist for unbelief at this time in his life. -[135.16 --> 142.08] But on that day, strapped to the helm of that ship, God did something to Newton. -[142.08 --> 151.68] And from that moment forward, and you can read about this in his journals as they tell a story of a man who is transformed and slowly being transformed. -[152.14 --> 162.06] And so he began to read the Bible regularly, and he began to read books published by other Christian authors to help teach him faith and discipleship and what that might be like. -[162.06 --> 169.78] And it took a few years, yes, but after a few years, he left the slaving industry and became a tide surveyor in Liverpool. -[169.78 --> 177.72] And then, in 1764, at the age of 39, which is just two years older than me, he became a minister. -[178.92 --> 188.88] Now, for the evening services and the little church that he served in Olney, he would publish hymns with his friend and fellow parishioner, William Cowper. -[189.60 --> 195.40] One of the hymns that they published has gone on to infamy, and it's called Amazing Grace. -[195.40 --> 205.24] God took a cussing, slave-trading, degenerate of a man, changed his heart, and turned him into a gospel preacher. -[206.70 --> 208.32] This is what God does. -[209.70 --> 209.90] Right? -[209.96 --> 212.46] Think of the story from the Bible of the Apostle Paul. -[213.04 --> 213.22] Right? -[213.24 --> 219.86] The Apostle Paul was, quite literally, in today's terms, a state-sponsored murdering terrorist. -[219.86 --> 228.82] And God made him into the greatest missionary that the world has ever known, and used him to author more than half of the New Testament. -[230.32 --> 233.36] In different ways, this is my story. -[234.42 --> 239.44] In a different way from that, this is your story, if you believe. -[240.30 --> 240.48] Right? -[240.52 --> 242.64] These are stories of transformation. -[243.12 --> 243.22] Right? -[243.24 --> 245.98] The gospel of Jesus transforms you. -[245.98 --> 248.42] Jesus changes your heart. -[249.70 --> 250.84] And that's this story. -[251.54 --> 257.80] That's the story that we're going to see and read the fruit of in Habakkuk 3. -[258.10 --> 261.32] And so if you have a Bible in front of you, I encourage you to open that up. -[261.92 --> 263.22] Turn to Habakkuk 3. -[263.34 --> 266.12] We will look more closely at some of the verses there. -[266.70 --> 268.60] It will be on the screen as I read it. -[268.60 --> 274.46] But of course, I always encourage you to have one open in front of you, or on in front of you, if you use your phone. -[274.46 --> 278.66] This is from Habakkuk 3, beginning at verse 1. -[280.18 --> 284.30] A prayer of Habakkuk the prophet on Shigenoth. -[284.30 --> 306.96] God came from Teman, the Holy One from Mount Paran. -[306.96 --> 311.12] His glory covered the heavens, and his praise filled the earth. -[311.98 --> 314.06] His splendor was like the sunrise. -[314.44 --> 317.24] Rays flashed from his hand where his power was hidden. -[318.38 --> 320.06] Plague went before him. -[320.56 --> 322.10] Pestilence followed his steps. -[322.42 --> 323.96] He stood and shook the earth. -[324.28 --> 326.24] He looked and made the nations tremble. -[326.54 --> 330.46] The ancient mountains crumbled and the age-old hills collapsed. -[331.46 --> 333.84] His ways are eternal. -[333.84 --> 340.32] I saw the tents of Cushan in distress, the dwellings of Midian in anguish. -[341.24 --> 343.24] Were you angry with the rivers, O Lord? -[343.30 --> 344.96] Was your wrath against the streams? -[345.24 --> 349.94] Did you rage against the sea when you rode with your horses and your victorious chariots? -[350.14 --> 351.70] You uncovered your bow. -[351.88 --> 353.30] You called for many arrows. -[353.86 --> 355.70] You split the earth with rivers. -[355.86 --> 357.70] The mountains saw you and writhed. -[358.04 --> 359.58] Torrents of water swept by. -[359.58 --> 362.68] The deep roared and lifted its waves on high. -[363.88 --> 369.32] Sun and moon stood still in the heavens at the glint of your flying arrows, -[369.54 --> 372.08] at the lightning of your flashing spear. -[372.98 --> 377.56] In wrath you strode through the earth, and in anger you threshed the nations. -[377.98 --> 382.50] You came out to deliver your people, to save your anointed one. -[382.50 --> 385.48] You crushed the leader of the land of wickedness. -[385.60 --> 387.74] You stripped him from head to foot. -[388.62 --> 391.28] With his own spear you pierced his head. -[391.46 --> 396.70] When his warriors stormed out to scatter us, gloating as though about to devour the wretched -[396.70 --> 402.80] who were in hiding, you trampled the sea with your horses, churning the great waters. -[402.80 --> 408.12] I heard, and my heart pounded. -[408.38 --> 410.38] My lips quivered at the sound. -[410.50 --> 413.58] Decay crept into my bones, and my legs trembled. -[414.50 --> 424.14] Yet, I will wait patiently for the day of calamity to come on the nation invading us. -[425.08 --> 426.44] This is the word of the Lord. -[426.44 --> 426.50] Amen. -[432.80 --> 436.68] As I said, this is a story of change. -[438.14 --> 442.52] And in chapter 3, there is a change that takes place. -[442.56 --> 447.18] With your Bibles, look back to chapter 1, the very first words of the book, right? -[447.26 --> 448.92] Chapter 1, verse 1 says, -[449.30 --> 451.96] An oracle Habakkuk received. -[453.00 --> 456.24] And then, if you've been with us for the last couple weeks, right, -[456.24 --> 461.58] you've seen that Habakkuk expresses himself in the form of two complaints. -[461.58 --> 466.62] And as we've seen, he's pretty bold and brazen in those complaints. -[466.66 --> 469.32] And he's really struggling, right? -[469.34 --> 473.34] He complains, and he cries out, and he calls for justice. -[473.76 --> 480.26] At one point in the story, in the text, he even seems to challenge God, right, to call him out. -[483.32 --> 489.60] And in case it hasn't been clear over these last few weeks, God can handle that. -[489.60 --> 493.08] God wants your complaints. -[494.30 --> 495.72] His shoulders are big enough. -[496.56 --> 497.82] He can handle your challenge. -[498.16 --> 499.42] He can handle your frustrations. -[499.54 --> 500.70] He can handle your anger. -[501.34 --> 507.42] And so, like Habakkuk, like Job, like so many of the psalmists that we can read, give it to him. -[508.38 --> 508.62] Right? -[509.02 --> 511.86] If you're mad at God, tell him. -[511.86 --> 515.48] If you don't get it, ask him. -[516.14 --> 516.36] Right? -[516.38 --> 523.02] If you are righteously indignant, or perhaps it's better to say, if you're right pissed off, yell at God. -[524.08 --> 525.26] He can take it. -[526.24 --> 527.40] He can handle it. -[527.72 --> 527.92] Right? -[527.96 --> 529.14] He is big enough. -[529.28 --> 530.24] I promise you. -[530.24 --> 533.98] And let's be clear, okay? -[535.54 --> 541.18] Yelling at God is the language of faith for those facing injustice. -[542.88 --> 546.74] Yelling at God is the language of faith for the brokenhearted. -[548.68 --> 552.76] Yelling at God is better than walking away in apathy. -[552.76 --> 564.84] By analogy, I would rather my friend get loudly angry at me and yell at me than seethe in silence and never talk to me. -[566.82 --> 571.20] But, but know this. -[571.70 --> 572.52] Remember this. -[573.02 --> 573.16] Right? -[573.22 --> 578.76] If God is big enough to handle your anger and your yelling, and he is. -[578.76 --> 579.26] Right? -[579.30 --> 587.96] If God is big enough to handle your anger and your yelling, that means he is also big enough to have reasons beyond your comprehension. -[589.06 --> 589.60] Right? -[589.62 --> 590.86] It can only be both. -[591.78 --> 592.10] Right? -[592.12 --> 601.68] You can't complain to God that he should be doing something different, but then reject the possibility that God is, in fact, doing something different. -[601.68 --> 610.00] I think that's the lesson that Habakkuk has learned by the time he gets to chapter 3. -[610.96 --> 611.44] Right? -[611.48 --> 616.50] That's the lesson that Habakkuk has learned from listening to God speak in chapter 2. -[617.52 --> 617.92] Right? -[618.00 --> 621.74] As we said, there's something that has changed here. -[621.84 --> 625.12] Something has changed between chapter 2 and chapter 3. -[625.38 --> 625.62] Right? -[625.64 --> 630.86] The book starts with his complaints and with God's oracle, and then chapter 3 is something else. -[630.86 --> 633.06] And look at the superscription. -[633.44 --> 633.60] Right? -[633.66 --> 635.84] It's verse 1 in the text that we read. -[635.90 --> 639.14] Now, real quick, let me just put on my Bible teacher hat for a moment. -[639.22 --> 639.86] Let's just pause. -[640.32 --> 642.80] I don't know what your Bibles might say. -[642.98 --> 649.98] Mine, the NIV, has a heading that begins chapter 3 saying Habakkuk's Prayer. -[650.04 --> 652.06] That's written there in italics. -[652.22 --> 653.72] That's put in there by the editors. -[654.52 --> 654.64] Right? -[654.68 --> 658.06] That's not part of the text as God's infallible word. -[658.10 --> 659.36] That's put in there to help us. -[659.36 --> 665.84] But verse 1, right, what's called the superscript, that's part of the authoritative text. -[665.96 --> 669.44] And there we read a prayer of Habakkuk. -[670.40 --> 676.00] And I want to suggest to you that that line is God telling us that this is something different. -[677.56 --> 678.06] Right? -[678.08 --> 683.44] That Habakkuk's posture has changed from protest to prayer. -[683.44 --> 684.44] Right? -[684.48 --> 689.04] From wrecked and whining to wrecked and worshiping. -[689.92 --> 690.04] Right? -[690.10 --> 696.24] Habakkuk has had a change of heart and not a change of circumstances. -[697.56 --> 704.82] Habakkuk has had an encounter with the living God speaking directly to his heart that affects how he sees everything else. -[704.82 --> 711.42] And not just how he sees everything else, but what and how he does everything else. -[711.42 --> 711.70] Right? -[711.74 --> 715.92] In short, an encounter with the living God changes everything. -[715.92 --> 721.88] And that's what this word is. -[722.52 --> 723.20] Right? -[723.28 --> 730.04] God speaking into your life and situation to give you new eyes to see by and a new purpose to live for. -[730.60 --> 731.22] Right? -[731.26 --> 733.90] That's what this worship is for. -[734.46 --> 735.10] Right? -[735.16 --> 741.46] For God carrying you into his presence by the power of the Spirit and breathing new life into your dry bones. -[741.46 --> 743.64] That's who church is. -[743.64 --> 743.96] Right? -[744.02 --> 753.70] A community of broken people raised up in new birth into a living hope with the mission of God coursing through us and out to all the world by us. -[754.58 --> 756.90] That's what's happening in Habakkuk. -[757.24 --> 761.48] His heart is being changed with an encounter with God. -[761.58 --> 761.66] Right? -[761.74 --> 769.04] Habakkuk is learning to trust God's ultimately unsearchable plan for establishing his kingdom. -[769.04 --> 780.20] And in his learning to trust in God's plan, he begins to offer a prayer of trust and a prayer of confidence that grows with reverence and awe at who God is. -[781.40 --> 784.14] And that's our goal as we dig into this text. -[784.66 --> 784.78] Right? -[784.86 --> 792.02] Learning how to trust God's plan and purpose for establishing his kingdom and giving ourselves in trust and confidence. -[792.18 --> 797.18] And thereby increasing our capacity for reverence and awe. -[797.18 --> 798.98] So we're going to see that. -[799.30 --> 800.48] We're going to dig in here. -[800.60 --> 804.52] And in these verses of Habakkuk, I want to show you two things. -[805.22 --> 812.42] And so in the time that we have left, part one of that will be what I'm calling the responsibility to remember rightly. -[813.10 --> 819.02] And then part two will be viewing our lives through valued virtues. -[819.02 --> 825.30] So the responsibility to remember rightly and then viewing our lives through valued virtues. -[825.66 --> 831.82] And before we dig too far into that, I want you to quickly notice a sort of theological principle operating here. -[831.94 --> 832.14] Right? -[832.18 --> 841.52] There's a reciprocal relationship between a changed heart and the responsibility to remember rightly and to view our lives through these virtues. -[841.52 --> 843.26] And what I mean is this. -[844.04 --> 844.32] Right? -[844.40 --> 846.88] First, God changes your heart. -[846.96 --> 849.42] That is his gift of regeneration. -[850.02 --> 850.20] Right? -[850.22 --> 855.52] He changes your heart and with that comes the responsibility of faith and the formation of faith. -[855.52 --> 855.96] Right? -[856.00 --> 862.70] We respond to God changing our heart by digging into his word, by worshiping him in life and with the church. -[862.70 --> 870.62] And we respond by becoming part of a community of heart changed people who are learning to view our lives through these virtues. -[871.58 --> 875.30] But at the same time, the reverse works as well. -[875.30 --> 876.06] Right? -[876.22 --> 884.58] As we learn to view life through certain virtues, as we learn practices of remembering rightly, our hearts are changed. -[886.08 --> 891.92] In theological terms, what we're talking about is the relationship between justification and sanctification. -[891.92 --> 895.38] Justification happens in response to the word. -[895.82 --> 899.58] Sanctification happens in responding to the word. -[900.38 --> 900.58] Right? -[900.64 --> 908.42] Your heart is changed and your heart is changing through discipline and discipleship being transformed by the Holy Spirit. -[910.04 --> 919.56] And so, what does it mean for us and Habakkuk with the responsibility to remember rightly? -[919.56 --> 923.66] What is the responsibility to remember rightly? -[923.82 --> 926.02] And so, look at verse 2. -[926.38 --> 927.42] The first part of verse 2. -[928.32 --> 928.98] Habakkuk says, -[929.46 --> 931.50] Lord, I have heard of your fame. -[931.70 --> 933.96] I stand in awe of your deeds. -[934.34 --> 935.10] Oh, Lord. -[935.38 --> 935.56] Right? -[935.60 --> 938.40] I've heard of your fame and I stand in awe of your deeds. -[938.70 --> 942.28] Habakkuk is remembering what God has done. -[942.28 --> 955.82] He is learning to look at part of what God has done in the past through the lens of a worldview and a theology that says God is sovereign over all creation. -[955.82 --> 959.84] That he is big enough to handle our anger and our frustration. -[959.84 --> 965.52] But also, that he is big enough to have a purpose beyond our comprehension. -[965.52 --> 968.78] That's what it means to remember rightly. -[969.40 --> 969.60] Right? -[969.64 --> 974.82] That even as we see part of the picture, we know that there are details beyond our sight lines. -[975.60 --> 975.80] Right? -[975.84 --> 981.96] Even if we could see those details, right, we wouldn't understand them or be able to make sense of them. -[981.96 --> 986.54] But what we can see, what we can remember is enough. -[986.54 --> 996.96] What we can rightly remember is proof enough, is cause enough to drive us to the virtues that we'll outline in a moment. -[997.74 --> 1002.48] Now, quickly, let's look at what Habakkuk is remembering. -[1003.42 --> 1005.92] In verse 3, he prays, -[1005.92 --> 1009.56] God came from T-Man, the Holy One from Mount Peren. -[1009.96 --> 1013.88] Now, T-Man is a city or a region in southern Edom. -[1013.88 --> 1020.40] Mount Peren, the location is not precisely known, but based on the stories and the general references, -[1020.88 --> 1022.88] we know that it is to the southeast of Israel. -[1023.72 --> 1030.60] Actually, we have a map that we can put up on the screen for you that will help you see these place names -[1030.60 --> 1035.36] and the purpose, once you see them all together, of mentioning them. -[1036.50 --> 1039.14] So with that map, you can see in verse 5, -[1039.14 --> 1044.28] quickly, Habakkuk mentions plagues and pestilence that go before him. -[1044.28 --> 1049.36] It's probably recalling of Egypt, right, and the ten plagues in the Exodus story. -[1049.94 --> 1052.54] Verse 7 mentions Cushan and Midian. -[1053.22 --> 1058.54] Cushan is a part of the southern Transjordan region, same with Midian. -[1058.54 --> 1067.54] In fact, Midian, or at least two certain Midianites, is where Moses flees from Pharaoh -[1067.54 --> 1070.42] when God speaks to him in the burning bush. -[1071.72 --> 1077.78] Now, take that all together, and what Habakkuk is seeing, what he is remembering, -[1078.34 --> 1083.12] is God coming from the region that on your map there is in that little circle, right? -[1083.12 --> 1086.88] The region where Mount Sinai is located. -[1088.06 --> 1090.70] All right, Sinai, if you remember the story, if you know the story, -[1090.76 --> 1094.18] is where God meets Moses, where God meets the people. -[1094.36 --> 1097.32] Sinai is the climax of the story of the Exodus. -[1097.56 --> 1102.74] Sinai is the place where, for the first time in generations upon generations, -[1102.74 --> 1108.56] the people see the glory of God, where the glory of God descends and dwells with its people, -[1108.56 --> 1113.72] where it did so and affected the face of Moses every time that he came into God's presence, -[1113.78 --> 1117.66] such that he radiated God's glory and had to wear a veil, right? -[1117.66 --> 1128.62] These place names in the prayer situate Habakkuk in a historical reality of God's redemption before his people. -[1128.62 --> 1136.42] And then, as if buoyed by remembering rightly, -[1137.60 --> 1143.66] Habakkuk switches almost into this beautiful poem in verses 8 through 15 -[1143.66 --> 1145.62] that we're not going to look at line by line, -[1145.74 --> 1148.44] but I encourage you to come back to it sometime this week. -[1148.84 --> 1153.88] And it comes across as a sort of description of reality -[1153.88 --> 1161.18] as Habakkuk is almost seeing the world and world history through God's eyes, right? -[1161.20 --> 1165.14] It's a poetic and theological account of God's working in the world -[1165.14 --> 1169.70] to deliver Israel from Egypt and from the armies of Pharaoh who chased them. -[1170.42 --> 1173.62] Now, in this, Habakkuk might also be seeing, -[1173.62 --> 1178.16] as history sort of layers on itself when God stands above time, -[1178.56 --> 1183.62] is also seeing God carrying David through battles against the Philistines -[1183.62 --> 1187.68] or God securing victory for the Israelites in the time of Hezekiah -[1187.68 --> 1190.78] and the advancing armies of Sennacherib, -[1190.90 --> 1193.62] who marched through Israel towards Jerusalem -[1193.62 --> 1196.82] only to be utterly destroyed by an angel of the Lord -[1196.82 --> 1199.44] coming into their camp as they gathered around the walls -[1199.44 --> 1202.78] such that 185,000 soldiers were killed. -[1203.54 --> 1209.38] And Sennacherib eventually went back to his home city of Nineveh -[1209.38 --> 1213.40] where he was a leader and he was killed by his sons. -[1213.62 --> 1215.56] As he worshipped in a temple. -[1216.32 --> 1220.18] And that could be the referent for verse 14 of our text, right? -[1220.44 --> 1221.18] Where it says, -[1221.40 --> 1224.16] With his own spear you pierced his head. -[1225.28 --> 1225.52] Right? -[1225.56 --> 1227.68] An enemy of God killed by his own sons. -[1227.84 --> 1230.20] With his own spear you pierced his head. -[1230.64 --> 1231.56] Either way, -[1231.74 --> 1234.12] what you see in the grand scheme of things -[1234.12 --> 1236.40] and the big drama that is redemption -[1236.40 --> 1238.72] focused here through the people of Israel -[1238.72 --> 1241.26] Israel is that Pharaoh received justice. -[1241.46 --> 1243.90] God protected and provided for David -[1243.90 --> 1246.06] and Sennacherib knew punishment. -[1246.50 --> 1246.62] Right? -[1246.70 --> 1247.68] And so, too, -[1248.04 --> 1250.06] will Judah in Habakkuk's day. -[1250.60 --> 1250.76] Right? -[1250.80 --> 1253.00] The unjust leaders of Judah -[1253.00 --> 1254.96] and from the temple and religious system -[1254.96 --> 1257.58] will face justice from God -[1257.58 --> 1259.38] in the form of exile to Babylon. -[1259.38 --> 1260.76] And then greater still, -[1260.92 --> 1261.28] Babylon, -[1261.56 --> 1262.88] used as an instrument of God's tool, -[1262.98 --> 1266.40] will face justice in the form of Cyrus the Persian. -[1266.86 --> 1267.12] Right? -[1267.20 --> 1269.48] Down and down it goes through history. -[1269.62 --> 1271.18] God guiding the way -[1271.18 --> 1274.80] to reveal his plan and purpose of redemption. -[1275.20 --> 1275.44] You see, -[1275.54 --> 1277.24] we may not know the details, -[1277.24 --> 1280.48] but we have it even better -[1280.48 --> 1283.20] because we know the God -[1283.20 --> 1284.90] who controls the details. -[1286.58 --> 1288.54] I think about the story, right? -[1288.74 --> 1289.76] Consider Joseph. -[1290.12 --> 1290.84] Joseph, who, -[1291.12 --> 1292.34] as a young man, -[1292.50 --> 1293.80] a pretty arrogant young man, -[1293.92 --> 1294.14] sure, -[1294.28 --> 1296.42] was beaten and abused -[1296.42 --> 1297.82] and left for dead -[1297.82 --> 1299.40] but then sold into slavery -[1299.40 --> 1300.52] by his brothers. -[1301.24 --> 1301.56] Joseph, -[1301.72 --> 1302.86] who was falsely accused -[1302.86 --> 1303.76] of horrible crimes -[1303.76 --> 1304.68] and thrown into prison -[1304.68 --> 1306.62] and sat there for years -[1306.62 --> 1308.90] Joseph, -[1309.12 --> 1309.36] who, -[1310.50 --> 1312.18] when he finally got to meet his brothers, -[1313.32 --> 1313.78] said, -[1314.34 --> 1316.34] what you intended for evil, -[1316.94 --> 1319.10] God intended for good. -[1319.84 --> 1321.14] I think of Job, right? -[1321.22 --> 1321.46] Job, -[1321.56 --> 1323.28] who lost everything, -[1324.26 --> 1324.40] right? -[1324.48 --> 1324.76] Job, -[1324.86 --> 1326.92] who struggled in innumerable -[1326.92 --> 1328.82] and immeasurable ways -[1328.82 --> 1329.44] and still, -[1329.58 --> 1331.04] after all of that struggling, -[1331.46 --> 1331.78] said, -[1331.90 --> 1334.10] I know that you can do all things, -[1334.10 --> 1336.58] that no plan of yours can be thwarted. -[1337.62 --> 1338.82] Or to think of Paul, -[1338.92 --> 1340.54] who we've already made reference to, -[1340.98 --> 1341.12] who, -[1341.24 --> 1341.46] Paul, -[1341.58 --> 1344.02] who regularly faced death, -[1344.14 --> 1345.60] who regularly stood opposed -[1345.60 --> 1346.30] to the religious -[1346.30 --> 1348.34] and political authorities, -[1348.34 --> 1349.04] who says, -[1349.50 --> 1349.74] no, -[1350.00 --> 1351.30] in all things -[1351.30 --> 1353.02] we are more than conquerors -[1353.02 --> 1353.66] through him -[1353.66 --> 1355.08] who loved us. -[1355.14 --> 1356.12] For I am convinced -[1356.12 --> 1356.94] that neither death -[1356.94 --> 1357.70] nor life, -[1357.78 --> 1358.72] neither angels nor demons, -[1358.84 --> 1359.54] neither the present -[1359.54 --> 1360.14] nor the future, -[1360.22 --> 1361.38] nor any powers, -[1361.66 --> 1362.74] neither height nor depth, -[1362.74 --> 1363.32] nor anything -[1363.32 --> 1364.30] in all creation, -[1364.50 --> 1366.14] will be able to separate us -[1366.14 --> 1367.18] from the love of God -[1367.18 --> 1367.82] that is available -[1367.82 --> 1368.84] in Christ Jesus, -[1369.32 --> 1369.88] our Lord. -[1371.54 --> 1373.68] Just because you don't understand it -[1373.68 --> 1375.88] doesn't mean it's not there. -[1377.98 --> 1379.10] God is able to take -[1379.10 --> 1382.00] the most horrific evil -[1382.00 --> 1383.22] in the world, -[1383.78 --> 1385.78] his own death -[1385.78 --> 1387.96] on an instrument of Roman torture, -[1387.96 --> 1391.04] and he's able to turn that -[1391.04 --> 1393.30] into the greatest good -[1393.30 --> 1396.08] that the world has ever seen, -[1396.20 --> 1397.78] salvation for all -[1397.78 --> 1398.94] whom he will call. -[1399.16 --> 1400.16] And if he can do that, -[1400.32 --> 1401.32] is he not able -[1401.32 --> 1403.18] to take your present situation -[1403.18 --> 1404.56] of hurt and pain -[1404.56 --> 1405.14] or worry, -[1405.44 --> 1406.52] whatever it may be, -[1407.48 --> 1409.04] and be present with you -[1409.04 --> 1410.74] and turn it for his glory? -[1411.82 --> 1412.28] Right? -[1412.30 --> 1413.44] We may not know the details, -[1414.28 --> 1415.66] but we have it even better -[1415.66 --> 1417.02] because we know the God -[1417.02 --> 1418.82] who controls the details. -[1419.08 --> 1421.54] And still better yet, -[1422.68 --> 1425.22] he knows us. -[1427.08 --> 1427.64] Jesus, -[1428.02 --> 1429.10] who lived the life -[1429.10 --> 1429.84] I should have lived, -[1430.06 --> 1431.20] who died the death -[1431.20 --> 1432.28] that I deserve, -[1433.54 --> 1434.78] gave himself up -[1434.78 --> 1436.10] for me, -[1436.80 --> 1438.70] for you. -[1439.98 --> 1441.44] He knows you -[1441.44 --> 1443.38] by name. -[1445.70 --> 1448.32] That's remembering rightly. -[1449.78 --> 1451.10] We have a responsibility -[1451.10 --> 1452.34] to ourselves -[1452.34 --> 1453.50] and to each other -[1453.50 --> 1454.56] to do that, -[1454.80 --> 1454.94] right? -[1454.98 --> 1455.82] To put ourselves -[1455.82 --> 1456.54] in places -[1456.54 --> 1457.68] and circumstances -[1457.68 --> 1458.90] and with a people -[1458.90 --> 1460.38] who will help us -[1460.38 --> 1461.72] remember rightly. -[1464.28 --> 1465.34] Remembering rightly -[1465.34 --> 1467.70] gets us to a place -[1467.70 --> 1469.00] where we can view -[1469.00 --> 1469.82] our lives, -[1469.82 --> 1470.66] our present -[1470.66 --> 1472.00] and future realities -[1472.00 --> 1473.58] through the lens -[1473.58 --> 1474.62] of what I'm calling -[1474.62 --> 1476.60] valued virtues. -[1477.48 --> 1478.38] That's part two. -[1479.34 --> 1479.52] Right? -[1479.60 --> 1480.50] Viewing our lives -[1480.50 --> 1482.44] through valued virtues. -[1483.58 --> 1484.68] Now this goes back -[1484.68 --> 1485.72] to the second part -[1485.72 --> 1487.00] of verse two. -[1487.46 --> 1488.06] And so we said, -[1488.40 --> 1488.58] Lord, -[1488.68 --> 1489.68] I have heard of your fame. -[1489.78 --> 1490.42] I stand in awe -[1490.42 --> 1491.08] of your deeds, -[1491.16 --> 1491.30] right? -[1491.34 --> 1491.94] That's Habakkuk. -[1492.04 --> 1493.08] I remember rightly -[1493.08 --> 1494.12] what you have done -[1494.12 --> 1495.18] and then now -[1495.18 --> 1496.40] renew them -[1496.40 --> 1497.42] in our day. -[1498.12 --> 1498.92] In our time, -[1498.92 --> 1499.80] make them known. -[1500.04 --> 1500.76] In wrath, -[1500.92 --> 1501.94] remember mercy. -[1502.48 --> 1503.40] What's Habakkuk saying? -[1503.46 --> 1503.68] He's saying, -[1503.88 --> 1504.84] do it again, God. -[1505.60 --> 1505.82] Right? -[1505.84 --> 1506.44] If you've done it -[1506.44 --> 1507.22] in the past, -[1507.42 --> 1508.68] you can do it again -[1508.68 --> 1509.42] in the present. -[1510.04 --> 1510.90] That's hope. -[1512.58 --> 1513.70] And Habakkuk knows -[1513.70 --> 1514.72] that if he doesn't -[1514.72 --> 1515.72] do it again -[1515.72 --> 1516.40] in the present, -[1516.84 --> 1517.70] he has a purpose. -[1518.98 --> 1519.80] That's faith. -[1521.36 --> 1522.18] And Habakkuk knows -[1522.18 --> 1523.48] that in that purpose, -[1523.70 --> 1524.92] he is never forgotten, -[1525.30 --> 1526.48] he is never alone, -[1526.48 --> 1527.82] and there are no mistakes. -[1528.64 --> 1530.24] That's love. -[1531.74 --> 1532.32] Hope, -[1533.36 --> 1533.68] faith, -[1534.40 --> 1535.20] and love. -[1536.02 --> 1537.92] These are the three virtues -[1537.92 --> 1539.30] by which we see -[1539.30 --> 1540.14] life, -[1540.58 --> 1541.14] and trial, -[1541.52 --> 1542.10] and struggle, -[1542.48 --> 1543.08] and hardship. -[1543.76 --> 1543.92] Right? -[1544.02 --> 1545.50] Hope that he can change it. -[1545.82 --> 1546.66] Faith that in it -[1546.66 --> 1547.58] he has a purpose, -[1547.78 --> 1549.22] and love in such a way -[1549.22 --> 1550.12] that he is always -[1550.12 --> 1551.28] with you. -[1552.62 --> 1553.70] Remembering rightly, -[1553.70 --> 1555.22] or being part of a community -[1555.22 --> 1556.62] that remembers rightly -[1556.62 --> 1558.12] when you just can't, -[1558.36 --> 1558.52] right, -[1558.62 --> 1559.62] trains your heart -[1559.62 --> 1561.36] to see the world -[1561.36 --> 1562.20] and life -[1562.20 --> 1563.84] through these virtues. -[1564.44 --> 1565.12] And I know that -[1565.12 --> 1567.00] the language of virtue -[1567.00 --> 1567.60] and vice -[1567.60 --> 1568.50] isn't really the way -[1568.50 --> 1569.58] people talk anymore. -[1569.86 --> 1570.74] I get that. -[1571.46 --> 1572.08] But this -[1572.08 --> 1573.84] isn't just -[1573.84 --> 1574.68] talk. -[1574.92 --> 1575.98] These aren't just -[1575.98 --> 1576.70] words. -[1576.90 --> 1577.90] This is God -[1577.90 --> 1578.64] talking. -[1579.04 --> 1580.04] These are God's -[1580.04 --> 1580.62] words, -[1580.62 --> 1581.20] and the one -[1581.20 --> 1582.04] who spoke -[1582.04 --> 1583.10] all of the world -[1583.10 --> 1584.12] into existence -[1584.12 --> 1586.10] is speaking to you -[1586.10 --> 1587.32] and to your heart -[1587.32 --> 1588.82] right here. -[1589.62 --> 1590.24] Now. -[1591.78 --> 1593.38] He is drawing you -[1593.38 --> 1595.26] into the arms -[1595.26 --> 1596.68] of Jesus, -[1596.88 --> 1598.72] close to his heart, -[1598.72 --> 1600.46] and into your -[1600.46 --> 1602.18] wrecked moments -[1602.18 --> 1603.32] he whispers, -[1603.66 --> 1605.64] I have made you, -[1605.86 --> 1607.54] I will carry you, -[1607.54 --> 1609.34] I will sustain you, -[1609.46 --> 1611.22] and I will rescue you. -[1612.12 --> 1613.28] Into your moments -[1613.28 --> 1613.90] and days, -[1614.00 --> 1615.08] whatever they are, -[1615.14 --> 1615.52] he says, -[1615.62 --> 1616.60] come to me, -[1616.72 --> 1618.00] all who are weary -[1618.00 --> 1619.18] and burdened, -[1619.20 --> 1620.70] and I will give you -[1620.70 --> 1621.52] rest. -[1623.28 --> 1623.76] And look, -[1624.42 --> 1625.78] this is our point. -[1626.82 --> 1628.10] We are learning -[1628.10 --> 1629.68] how to trust -[1629.68 --> 1630.92] God's plan -[1630.92 --> 1631.90] and purpose -[1631.90 --> 1632.72] for establishing -[1632.72 --> 1633.60] his kingdom -[1633.60 --> 1634.66] and giving ourselves -[1634.66 --> 1635.42] in trust -[1635.42 --> 1636.36] with confidence -[1636.36 --> 1637.38] and increasing -[1637.38 --> 1638.34] our capacity -[1638.34 --> 1639.12] for reverence -[1639.12 --> 1639.54] and awe -[1639.54 --> 1640.52] so that even -[1640.52 --> 1641.66] when we are -[1641.66 --> 1642.38] wrecked, -[1642.80 --> 1644.28] we can worship. -[1646.22 --> 1647.10] And that takes -[1647.10 --> 1647.78] a changed heart. -[1649.82 --> 1650.42] And look, -[1650.44 --> 1651.06] I know that we're -[1651.06 --> 1652.08] coming up against -[1652.08 --> 1653.88] the limits of our time -[1653.88 --> 1654.72] here this morning, -[1654.84 --> 1655.60] and so I will be quick -[1655.60 --> 1656.04] with this, -[1656.12 --> 1658.32] but your story -[1658.32 --> 1660.90] of a transformed heart, -[1661.34 --> 1662.40] your story -[1662.40 --> 1663.84] of God at work -[1663.84 --> 1664.36] in you -[1664.36 --> 1665.64] and through you -[1665.64 --> 1667.68] is a powerful thing, -[1667.88 --> 1669.08] and don't waste it -[1669.08 --> 1670.20] by not telling it. -[1670.94 --> 1671.06] Right? -[1671.18 --> 1671.58] Parents, -[1671.76 --> 1672.76] tell your kids -[1672.76 --> 1674.04] how Jesus changed -[1674.04 --> 1674.56] your life. -[1674.92 --> 1675.20] Kids, -[1675.36 --> 1676.14] tell your friends -[1676.14 --> 1677.96] how Jesus is changing you. -[1678.30 --> 1678.74] Boyfriends, -[1678.86 --> 1679.76] talk to your girlfriends. -[1679.96 --> 1680.36] Girlfriends, -[1680.46 --> 1681.30] talk to your boyfriends -[1681.30 --> 1682.58] about why faith -[1682.58 --> 1683.94] in Jesus matters. -[1684.82 --> 1685.02] Right? -[1685.14 --> 1686.06] Find a chance. -[1686.46 --> 1687.22] Make it happen. -[1687.22 --> 1688.22] Talk to your neighbor -[1688.22 --> 1688.82] this week -[1688.82 --> 1689.86] about how God -[1689.86 --> 1691.16] is changing your heart. -[1691.48 --> 1692.44] Tell your coworkers -[1692.44 --> 1693.34] why holding on -[1693.34 --> 1693.78] to Jesus -[1693.78 --> 1695.24] is so important. -[1695.46 --> 1696.06] And don't make it -[1696.06 --> 1696.68] more complicated -[1696.68 --> 1697.74] than it needs to be. -[1697.94 --> 1698.08] Right? -[1698.12 --> 1698.80] Don't make it out -[1698.80 --> 1699.66] to be more complicated -[1699.66 --> 1700.76] than it actually is. -[1700.90 --> 1701.10] Right? -[1701.14 --> 1702.24] This is your story. -[1702.94 --> 1704.22] The gospel of Jesus -[1704.22 --> 1705.48] is your story. -[1706.28 --> 1707.14] And so tell it. -[1710.02 --> 1711.48] And if you can't tell it, -[1713.08 --> 1714.36] or if you don't know -[1714.36 --> 1715.32] your place -[1715.32 --> 1716.26] in this story -[1716.26 --> 1717.42] right now, -[1717.46 --> 1718.46] or if you're in a place -[1718.46 --> 1720.52] where you're just lost -[1720.52 --> 1721.58] and afraid, -[1721.74 --> 1722.68] I want to talk to you -[1722.68 --> 1723.70] right now. -[1726.80 --> 1728.16] If you are in a place -[1728.16 --> 1730.76] that is so dark -[1730.76 --> 1732.96] you can't see any light, -[1733.60 --> 1735.22] if you are in a storm -[1735.22 --> 1737.02] that is so overwhelming -[1737.02 --> 1738.96] you can't even fix your eyes -[1738.96 --> 1739.88] on anything -[1739.88 --> 1740.78] or anyone, -[1741.10 --> 1742.50] let alone Jesus, -[1742.64 --> 1744.64] if you can't hold on anymore, -[1744.64 --> 1746.20] I want you to know -[1746.20 --> 1748.32] that he is holding on -[1748.32 --> 1748.92] to you. -[1750.18 --> 1751.82] That if you are faithless, -[1752.06 --> 1753.14] he is faithful -[1753.14 --> 1754.90] for he cannot disown himself. -[1755.24 --> 1755.34] Right? -[1755.34 --> 1756.18] That if you don't have -[1756.18 --> 1756.82] the energy -[1756.82 --> 1758.48] or the spiritual intuition -[1758.48 --> 1759.90] to even look to Jesus -[1759.90 --> 1761.56] as the waves are crashing in -[1761.56 --> 1762.32] around you, -[1762.54 --> 1764.62] know that he is reaching out -[1764.62 --> 1765.32] to you. -[1765.62 --> 1767.10] He is grabbing your hand. -[1767.48 --> 1770.10] He will hold you fast. -[1770.10 --> 1773.90] our circumstances -[1773.90 --> 1774.80] may never change, -[1775.52 --> 1778.00] but we will change -[1778.00 --> 1780.56] because that's -[1780.56 --> 1782.60] what God does. -[1783.74 --> 1784.38] Amen. -[1784.88 --> 1785.78] Let me pray with you. -[1785.78 --> 1791.92] Lord God, -[1792.02 --> 1792.44] today, -[1793.16 --> 1795.06] take your word -[1795.06 --> 1796.92] and transform us. -[1798.22 --> 1799.68] Change our hearts, -[1800.08 --> 1801.64] open our eyes -[1801.64 --> 1802.64] that we might see -[1802.64 --> 1803.94] Jesus. -[1806.14 --> 1807.96] We might hear your voice -[1807.96 --> 1810.64] whispering your promise. -[1810.64 --> 1813.34] that we might hear your voice -[1813.34 --> 1814.88] speaking love -[1814.88 --> 1816.14] over us. -[1819.06 --> 1820.04] Strengthen us -[1820.04 --> 1820.90] in hope -[1820.90 --> 1822.04] and faith -[1822.04 --> 1823.26] and in love. -[1824.52 --> 1825.26] And God, -[1825.30 --> 1826.02] if we are hopeless, -[1826.92 --> 1828.16] if we are faithless, -[1828.54 --> 1829.90] if we don't know your love, -[1831.28 --> 1832.10] reach out -[1832.10 --> 1833.32] all the more. -[1834.68 --> 1835.34] Hang on -[1835.34 --> 1836.06] all the tighter. -[1837.20 --> 1837.94] And may we -[1837.94 --> 1838.64] experience today -[1838.64 --> 1841.64] your strength. -[1843.44 --> 1845.28] Hold us fast, -[1845.44 --> 1846.00] Lord Jesus, -[1846.80 --> 1848.42] that whatever may come, -[1849.58 --> 1851.64] even while we are wrecked, -[1852.20 --> 1854.68] we can worship you. -[1855.68 --> 1856.32] Amen. diff --git a/Ascension Day - May 18, 2023_summary.txt b/Ascension Day - May 18, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b02fd5975af4d8b0c4c48758535b3af0bce833b5..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Ascension Day - May 18, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,102 +0,0 @@ -• Trust in God's love and salvation -• Overcoming shame, regret, and past mistakes through God's grace -• The power of God's forgiveness and erasure of past failures -• Standing amazed at the empty grave and God's unwavering love -• Finding peace and guidance in times of trouble and doubt -• Trusting in God as a lighthouse and source of hope in darkness -• Ascension Day -• Importance of Ascension Day in Christian Reformed world -• Jesus' kingship and its significance -• Worship service for Ascension Day -• Gathering to worship the ascended King -• Invitation to stand in God's presence and welcome His greeting of peace, mercy, and grace. -• The kingdom of God cannot fail and Christ rules over earth and hell. -• The keys of death and hell belong to Christ. -• Praise is given to the Father, Son, and Spirit for their roles in creation. -• Jesus died on the cross, was resurrected, and now sits at God's right hand. -• He will judge all people and gather His saints to eternal hope. -• A description of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection is provided. -• The church of Christ was born after Jesus' resurrection. -• Praise is given to God for His love and redemption through Jesus Christ. -• Jesus' worth and value are described as above all things. -• The power of humility and recognizing God's sovereignty -• The importance of worshiping the true God, rather than idols or human creations -• Repentance and judgment, as described in Acts 17 -• Calling on Christians to kneel before their King and live under his command -• Praise and adoration of Jesus Christ -• Seeking a heart like Jesus' through humility and loving others -• Desiring to ascend to the holy place with clean hands and a pure heart -• Longing for heaven, where pain is gone and mercy fills the streets -• The speaker discusses the return of Jesus Christ and the end times -• The concept of death being no more, and all bowing before Him -• Standing face to face with He who died and rose again -• Praise and worship of God, including singing and shouting hymns -• Reading from Ephesians 1, specifically verses 15-23 -• The speaker is expressing gratitude and prayer for the church in Ephesus, thanking God for them and their love for each other. -• He prays that they will receive the spirit of wisdom and revelation to know God better. -• He wants them to mature in their faith, develop as Christians, and become more of who they already are. -• The speaker is using the text from Ephesians to explain his prayer, highlighting God's power and authority over all things through Jesus Christ. -• Paul wants believers to grow in their faith and be active, not idle. -• Idleness of faith can lead to idolatry. -• God's power is at work through the gospel. -• Paul prays for readers' eyes to be enlightened so they can see truth and live by faith, not sight. -• He wants them to have a deeper understanding and vision of God. -• Paul's prayer is to see God at work in the world, just as he did two thousand years ago and still today. -• The distractions of materialism, human pride, and urgent matters can overwhelm our affections for Jesus. -• We want to fix our eyes on Jesus and run the race marked out for us, making Him more beautiful in the minds of believers. -• With God's power, we can stand against evil schemes, rulers, powers, authorities, and spiritual forces. -• Paul prays that the eyes of our heart may be enlightened. -• The difference between enlightenment and praying for enlightenment -• How the gospel of Jesus Christ provides hope, riches, and power through faith -• The idea that these things are already possessed by believers due to regeneration and the application of the gospel -• The need to "see" or acknowledge this reality in one's heart -• Comparing the current life with what it would be like if one truly grasped this truth -• The power of hope in difficult circumstances -• Hope as a means to walk through trials with confidence and courage -• Hope as a gift from God that changes one's perspective on their circumstances -• Devotion and dedication to seeing God's will through the darkness -• The riches of God's inheritance available to believers -• The spiritual blessings given by God in Christ, including every spiritual blessing -• The spiritual blessing given in the heavenly realms -• Christ as the promised blessing and inheritance -• The Holy Spirit as a guarantee of inheritance -• Being in Christ means having all spiritual blessings, including the Holy Spirit -• The richness of God's inheritance is found in Jesus and the Spirit -• Having Jesus and the Spirit is essential for life and faith -• Material prosperity vs spiritual bankruptcy -• The importance of prioritizing Jesus as one's treasure -• The benefits of Christ's ascension, including the sending of the Holy Spirit and access to divine riches -• The availability of power through the Holy Spirit for transformation and change -• Grew up in Ontario, specifically in a region that goes to Kilbear Park -• Had to travel north along highway 400 and then take either highway 11 or highway 400 extension to get to Kilbear Park -• A two-lane road was eventually turned into highway 69 -• The government of Ontario decided to turn the two-lane road into a major highway due to the region's Canadian shield geology -• The conversion required significant work, including explosive drilling and blasting to navigate through granite rock -• The process involved coring every two feet down the side of the rock with explosives and firing off charges along the core lines -• The power of the Holy Spirit transforms individuals, which in turn transforms their surroundings and communities -• God's power is greater than human limitations, allowing individuals to accomplish tasks beyond themselves -• Every aspect of creation belongs to Jesus, who is Lord over all -• Christians have been given everything by God through Jesus, including hope, riches, and power -• The joy of being underfoot the fullness of God -• Gospel hope and riches as inheritance -• Seeing Jesus and living in His glory -• Being hopeful, living richly, and being blessed -• Going with the power of God Himself -• All one needs is Christ and Christ is all one needs -• The speaker describes being lost in darkness and finding hope -• The speaker thought they knew the way to promised joy, but had no hope that the other person would own a rebel to their will -• The speaker's help was sought and they were led to the cross, where God's love was displayed -• The speaker believes they suffered in the other person's place and bore the wrath reserved for them -• The speaker now knows only grace is all that remains, and they sing hallelujah -• Christ is declared to be the speaker's life, and Jesus is their lord -• The importance of Jesus in the speaker's life -• Music and worship, with references to hymns like "Crown Him with Many Crowns" and "Hallelujah" -• Themes of sacrifice, love, and redemption through Christ -• References to scripture and biblical concepts, such as the ascension of Jesus and eternal life -• Invocations of God's blessing, peace, and presence in one's life -• Declaration of divine identity and titles -• Worship and adoration of God -• Opening one's soul to worship and be a fragrance to God -• Lifting God's holy name and acknowledging His sovereignty -• Mention of specific references to God (Jehovah, the Risen Lamb, Comforter and King) -• Transition to unrelated topics such as personal concerns and mundane activities \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Ascension Day - May 18, 2023_transcript.txt b/Ascension Day - May 18, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ab51b0a9e20277326947a1665cfbb5d6f86add6d..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Ascension Day - May 18, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2037 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 16.42] For God alone, I wait in silence. -[17.18 --> 22.62] My soul is still before the Lord. -[22.62 --> 30.12] He is my rock and my salvation. -[31.06 --> 37.82] My fortress strong, I'll trust in Him. -[38.22 --> 44.16] I'll not be shaken, I'll not be shaken. -[44.16 --> 52.10] For all my hope is in His love. -[52.10 --> 58.22] From God alone comes my salvation. -[59.44 --> 65.22] I'll wait and trust His steadfast love. -[65.22 --> 95.22] -[95.22 --> 104.22] For Almighty, who turned to God alone for help. -[104.22 --> 111.56] I'll not be shaken, I'll not be shaken. -[111.56 --> 118.90] For all my hope is in His love. -[118.90 --> 125.36] From God alone comes my salvation. -[125.36 --> 155.36] -[155.36 --> 156.36] I'll hear you cry. -[156.36 --> 164.36] No other hope will never fail you. -[164.36 --> 171.70] No other love will never fail. -[171.70 --> 178.70] I'll not be shaken, I'll not be shaken. -[178.70 --> 186.04] For all my hope is in His love. -[186.04 --> 193.04] From God alone comes my salvation. -[193.04 --> 200.04] I'll wait and trust His steadfast love. -[200.04 --> 207.04] I'll wait and trust His steadfast love. -[207.04 --> 215.02] To be heard and touch His steadfast love. -[216.02 --> 217.14] To be heard of Him, this love won't be shaken. -[217.22 --> 227.60] It won't be bare as a day. -[227.60 --> 234.30] I've seen shame, the kind that comes from mistakes -[234.30 --> 237.26] The kind that won't go away -[237.26 --> 241.94] When I turned around, they were right there to remind me -[241.94 --> 247.44] I've seen regret, the kind that messes with your hair -[247.44 --> 250.64] The failures and the can't forgets -[250.64 --> 255.18] But standing here now, I'm thinking God it's behind me -[255.18 --> 261.20] Cause I've seen nails, scarred hands reach out and wipe it all away -[261.20 --> 267.26] Now I see grace, hallelujah, I stand amazed -[267.26 --> 270.60] I'm staring at an empty grave -[270.60 --> 274.44] And the stone that drew rolled away -[274.44 --> 278.62] When I was a prideful, you saw the sun -[278.62 --> 282.00] When I left the night and night, you saw the one -[282.00 --> 286.94] And just like that, all my past has been erased -[286.94 --> 290.56] When I look back, I see grace -[290.56 --> 297.06] I still hurt, fall short on what you say I'm worth -[297.06 --> 301.82] And that devil says I don't deserve what you did on the cross -[301.82 --> 305.44] And he's right, cause I don't, but you did it anyway -[305.44 --> 310.38] I see grace, hallelujah, I stand amazed -[310.38 --> 313.56] I'm staring at an empty grave -[313.56 --> 317.40] And the stone that drew rolled away -[317.40 --> 321.66] When I was a prideful, you saw the sun -[321.66 --> 325.02] When I left the night and night, you saw the one -[325.02 --> 329.44] And just like that, all my past has been erased -[329.44 --> 335.88] When I look back, I see grace, grace -[335.88 --> 339.28] God's grace -[339.28 --> 342.42] Grace that is greater than all my sin -[342.42 --> 345.68] Faith God Almighty gonna see it again -[345.68 --> 349.20] Oh, grace, grace -[349.20 --> 352.52] God's grace -[352.52 --> 358.96] Grace that is greater than all my sin -[358.96 --> 365.12] I see grace, hallelujah, I stand amazed -[365.12 --> 368.08] I'm staring at an empty grave -[368.08 --> 371.78] And the stone that drew rolled away -[371.78 --> 373.78] Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah -[373.78 --> 376.34] I was a prideful, you saw the sun -[376.34 --> 379.62] When I left the night and night, you saw the one -[379.62 --> 384.58] And just like that, all my past has been erased -[384.58 --> 388.54] When I look back, I see grace -[388.54 --> 395.22] I see grace -[395.22 --> 398.22] Grace -[398.22 --> 401.12] Grace -[401.12 --> 403.12] Grace -[403.12 --> 404.36] Oh, grace -[404.36 --> 404.92] Grace -[405.08 --> 406.96] Grace -[406.96 --> 408.12] Grace -[408.12 --> 414.18] Grace that is greater than all my sin -[414.18 --> 415.46] Grace -[419.80 --> 420.32] Grace -[426.44 --> 426.92] Grace -[426.92 --> 427.68] Grace -[427.68 --> 436.20] wrestling and in my doubts in my failures you won't walk out your great -[436.20 --> 445.08] love will lead me through you are the peace in my trouble see whoa you are the -[445.08 --> 449.56] peace in my trouble see -[449.56 --> 463.42] in the silence you won't let go in the questions your truth will hold your great love will lead me -[463.42 --> 472.72] through you are the peace in my trouble see whoa you are the peace in my trouble see -[472.72 --> 486.64] my lighthouse my lighthouse shining in the darkness I will follow you oh my lighthouse -[486.64 --> 494.56] my lighthouse I will trust the promise you will carry me safe to shore -[494.56 --> 499.24] safe to shore -[499.24 --> 503.56] safe to shore -[503.56 --> 507.96] safe to shore -[507.96 --> 519.88] I won't feel what tomorrow brings with each morning I'll rise and sing -[519.88 --> 532.88] my god's love will lead me through you are the peace in my trouble see whoa you are the peace in my trouble see -[532.88 --> 536.56] oh you are my light -[536.56 --> 538.56] my lighthouse -[538.56 --> 540.56] my lighthouse -[540.56 --> 542.88] shining in the darkness -[542.88 --> 549.88] I will follow you oh my lighthouse my lighthouse -[549.88 --> 556.88] I will trust the promise you will carry me safe to shore -[556.88 --> 561.88] safe to shore -[561.88 --> 565.88] safe to shore -[565.88 --> 567.88] safe to shore -[567.88 --> 569.88] fire before us -[569.88 --> 573.88] fire before us -[573.88 --> 576.92] feel new -[579.36 --> 580.88] first -[580.88 --> 581.88] yes -[581.88 --> 584.88] in are -[584.88 --> 585.88] yes -[585.88 --> 586.88] no -[586.88 --> 587.88] yes -[587.88 --> 588.88] hears -[588.88 --> 590.88] who -[590.88 --> 592.88] You're the brightest -[592.88 --> 594.88] You will lead us -[594.88 --> 596.88] Through the storms -[596.88 --> 598.88] Far before us -[598.88 --> 600.88] You're the brightest -[600.88 --> 602.88] You will lead us -[602.88 --> 604.88] Through the storms -[604.88 --> 606.88] My lighthouse -[606.88 --> 608.88] My lighthouse -[608.88 --> 610.88] Shining in the darkness -[610.88 --> 612.88] I will follow you all -[612.88 --> 614.88] My lighthouse -[614.88 --> 616.88] My lighthouse -[616.88 --> 618.88] I will trust the brightens -[618.88 --> 620.88] I will trust the promise -[620.88 --> 622.88] You will carry me -[622.88 --> 624.88] To shore -[626.88 --> 628.88] Good evening -[628.88 --> 630.88] Probably -[630.88 --> 632.88] don't need the microphone -[632.88 --> 634.88] but except for you people online, welcome -[634.88 --> 636.88] We are so excited -[636.88 --> 638.88] to gather to worship even if our numbers -[638.88 --> 640.88] are few -[642.88 --> 644.88] Tonight is the Ascension Day -[644.88 --> 646.88] worship service -[646.88 --> 648.88] Now -[648.88 --> 650.88] this is -[650.88 --> 652.88] a -[652.88 --> 654.88] lessening practice -[654.88 --> 656.88] in the Christian Reformed world today -[656.88 --> 658.88] but in the Reformed world more broadly -[658.88 --> 660.88] Ascension Day has actually been the capstone day -[660.88 --> 662.88] John Calvin made a pretty compelling argument actually -[662.88 --> 666.88] that Ascension Day is on par with Resurrection Sunday -[666.88 --> 668.88] Because without Ascension Day -[668.88 --> 670.88] Because without Ascension Day -[670.88 --> 672.88] we don't have Jesus proclaimed as King -[672.88 --> 674.88] and as Jesus said himself -[674.88 --> 676.88] without Ascension Day -[676.88 --> 678.88] unless I go to be with my Father -[678.88 --> 680.88] the Holy Spirit will not come -[680.88 --> 682.88] and without the Holy Spirit -[682.88 --> 684.88] none of us -[684.88 --> 686.88] would believe -[686.88 --> 688.88] Without the Holy Spirit our hearts would still be dead -[688.88 --> 690.88] in sin and so Ascension Day -[690.88 --> 692.88] actually is -[692.88 --> 694.88] incredibly important -[694.88 --> 696.88] in the life of the church -[696.88 --> 698.88] and as Reformed Christians who proclaim the Lordship of Jesus -[698.88 --> 700.88] over every square inch -[700.88 --> 702.88] I'll come back to that later tonight -[702.88 --> 704.88] Jesus kingship -[704.88 --> 706.88] matters in our understanding of -[706.88 --> 708.88] our place in the world -[708.88 --> 710.88] and so we gather -[710.88 --> 712.88] for worship -[712.88 --> 714.88] and so when you go home tonight -[714.88 --> 716.88] and you tell all your friends how awesome -[716.88 --> 718.88] it was to be here -[718.88 --> 720.88] just really rub that in -[720.88 --> 722.88] and then next year we'll have maybe four or five more -[722.88 --> 723.88] and then the year after that -[723.88 --> 724.88] maybe four or five hundred more -[724.88 --> 726.88] and we'll just move on -[726.88 --> 728.88] but we do gather to worship -[728.88 --> 730.88] our ascended King -[730.88 --> 732.88] and so I'm going to invite you -[732.88 --> 734.88] in his presence to stand -[734.88 --> 736.88] we're going to sing -[736.88 --> 738.88] a bunch of songs -[738.88 --> 740.88] and we're going to hear from God's Word -[740.88 --> 742.88] in our service together -[742.88 --> 744.88] welcome into God's presence -[744.88 --> 746.88] and we'll receive his greeting -[746.88 --> 747.88] grace -[747.88 --> 748.88] mercy -[748.88 --> 750.88] and peace to you -[750.88 --> 751.88] from God our Father -[751.88 --> 753.88] and from the Lord Jesus Christ -[753.88 --> 755.88] our ascended King -[755.88 --> 758.88] through the presence and power -[758.88 --> 759.88] of the Holy Spirit -[760.88 --> 761.88] Amen -[762.88 --> 764.88] Turn to those around you -[764.88 --> 767.88] and welcome them in our combined worship today -[767.88 --> 787.88] as we worship together this evening -[787.88 --> 792.88] we're going to roll straight from rejoice the Lord is King into King of Kings -[792.88 --> 794.88] and I just wanted to give you a heads up -[794.88 --> 795.88] if you know Spanish -[795.88 --> 800.88] feel free to join us on the second and third chorus of King of Kings in Spanish -[800.88 --> 802.88] let's worship together -[802.88 --> 804.88] we hope together -[806.88 --> 808.88] Music -[808.88 --> 812.88] Music -[812.88 --> 815.88] Music -[816.88 --> 820.42] Music -[821.88 --> 825.88] Music -[825.88 --> 829.88] Music -[829.88 --> 830.38] Music -[830.38 --> 850.48] Rejoice! The Lord is King -[850.48 --> 855.40] Your Lord and King adore -[855.40 --> 861.46] Rejoice! Give thanks and sing -[861.46 --> 868.16] And triumph evermore -[868.16 --> 874.30] Lift up your heart -[874.30 --> 877.78] Lift up your voice -[877.78 --> 883.02] Rejoice again I say -[883.02 --> 892.28] Rejoice! His kingdom cannot fail -[892.28 --> 898.18] He rules o'er earth and hell -[898.18 --> 903.24] The keys of death and hell -[903.24 --> 910.50] To Christ the Lord our gift -[910.50 --> 916.50] Lift up your heart -[916.50 --> 919.50] Lift up your voice -[919.50 --> 924.50] Rejoice again I say -[924.50 --> 933.76] Rejoice! He sits at God's right hand -[933.76 --> 939.50] Till all His foes submit -[939.50 --> 943.76] Bow down at His command -[943.76 --> 951.02] And fall beneath His feet -[951.02 --> 958.02] Lift up your heart -[958.02 --> 961.80] Lift up your voice -[961.80 --> 967.02] Rejoice again I say -[967.02 --> 974.28] Rejoice! He is the Lord -[974.28 --> 976.28] Glorious hope -[976.28 --> 982.28] For Christ the judge shall come -[982.28 --> 988.28] To gather all His saints -[988.28 --> 995.54] To their eternal hope -[995.54 --> 1002.54] We soon shall hear -[1002.54 --> 1006.32] The archangel's voice -[1006.32 --> 1009.54] The trumpet of God -[1009.54 --> 1011.64] And all sound -[1011.64 --> 1016.80] Rejoice! -[1016.80 --> 1038.06] In the darkness we were waiting -[1038.06 --> 1041.70] Without hope and without light -[1041.70 --> 1043.32] Till from heaven -[1043.32 --> 1044.88] Till from heaven you came running -[1044.88 --> 1048.86] There was mercy in your eyes -[1048.86 --> 1052.08] To fulfill the law and prophets -[1052.08 --> 1055.74] To a virgin came the word -[1055.74 --> 1059.00] From a throne of endless glory -[1059.00 --> 1062.96] To a cradle in the dirt -[1062.96 --> 1071.70] Praise the Father -[1071.70 --> 1074.90] Praise the Son -[1074.90 --> 1078.28] Praise the Spirit -[1078.28 --> 1081.48] Three in one -[1081.48 --> 1084.84] God of glory -[1084.84 --> 1086.98] Majesty -[1086.98 --> 1092.46] Praise forever to the King -[1092.46 --> 1095.16] Of kings -[1095.16 --> 1102.10] To reveal the kingdom coming -[1102.10 --> 1105.64] And to reconcile the lost -[1105.64 --> 1108.68] To redeem the whole creation -[1108.68 --> 1112.26] You did not despise the cross -[1112.26 --> 1115.54] For even in your suffering -[1115.54 --> 1119.04] You sought to the other side -[1119.04 --> 1122.24] Knowing this was our salvation -[1122.24 --> 1126.68] Jesus for our sake you died -[1126.68 --> 1132.38] Glorious Padre Christ -[1132.38 --> 1136.38] Glorious Padre Christ -[1136.38 --> 1150.08] Tigal Berry Yeshua -[1150.08 --> 1175.08] And the morning that you rose, all of heaven held its breath, till that stone was moved for good, for the Lamb had conquered death. -[1175.08 --> 1188.08] And the dead rose from their tombs, and the angels stood in awe, for the souls of all who had come to the Father are restored. -[1188.08 --> 1201.90] And the church of Christ was born, and the Spirit lit the flame. Now this gospel truth of old shall not kneel, shall not fade. -[1201.90 --> 1215.64] By His blood and His name, in His freedom I am free, for the love of Jesus Christ, who has resurrected me. -[1215.64 --> 1227.18] Praise the Father, praise God's God. -[1227.18 --> 1233.72] Praise the Spirit, sound and awe. -[1233.72 --> 1240.22] God of glory, meet His team. -[1240.96 --> 1246.60] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, and the King of two. -[1247.60 --> 1253.54] Praise the Father, praise the Son. -[1254.44 --> 1260.52] Praise the Spirit, three in one. -[1260.52 --> 1266.52] God of glory, majesty. -[1266.52 --> 1274.76] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[1274.76 --> 1283.74] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[1283.74 --> 1291.74] Let's pray. -[1291.74 --> 1291.76] Let's pray. -[1294.06 --> 1299.70] Ascended Christ, intercessor, seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty, -[1300.24 --> 1305.08] we sing and rejoice in your glory, King of kings, ruler over heaven and earth. -[1305.74 --> 1310.74] You died in our stead, defeating hell, rose from the dead, and ascended into heaven. -[1310.74 --> 1315.88] Your standing is above all powers and kings and all of creation. -[1316.66 --> 1318.78] You are crowned King of all. -[1318.78 --> 1324.78] Above all powers and above all kings and all of creation. -[1324.78 --> 1326.78] Let's pray. -[1326.78 --> 1328.78] Let's pray. -[1328.78 --> 1330.78] Let's pray. -[1330.78 --> 1332.78] Let's pray. -[1332.78 --> 1334.78] Let's pray. -[1334.78 --> 1336.78] Let's pray. -[1336.78 --> 1338.78] Let's pray. -[1338.78 --> 1340.78] Let's pray. -[1340.78 --> 1352.78] Let's pray. -[1352.78 --> 1370.78] Let's pray. -[1370.78 --> 1384.42] Above all kingdoms, above all thrones, above all wonders the world has ever known. -[1385.42 --> 1400.70] Above all wealth and treasures of the earth, there's no way to measure what you're worth. -[1400.78 --> 1417.08] Crucified, laid behind the stone, you lived to die, rejected and alone like a rose. -[1417.08 --> 1431.08] Trampled on the ground, you took the fall and thought of me above all. -[1431.08 --> 1452.52] Above all powers, above all kings, above all nature and all creative things. -[1452.52 --> 1466.36] Above all wisdom and all the ways of man, you were here before the world began. -[1466.36 --> 1480.52] Above all kingdoms, above all thrones, above all wonders the world has ever known. -[1480.52 --> 1496.52] Above all wealth and treasures of the earth, there's no way to measure what you're worth. -[1496.52 --> 1512.52] Crucified, laid behind the stone, you lived to die, rejected and alone like a rose. -[1512.52 --> 1528.52] Trampled on the ground, you taught the fall and thought of me above all. -[1528.52 --> 1533.52] Crucified, laid behind the stone, you taught the fall and thought of me above all. -[1533.52 --> 1540.52] You laid behind the stone, you laid behind the stone, you lived to die, rejected and alone like a rose. -[1540.52 --> 1545.52] Crucified, rejected and alone like a rose. -[1545.52 --> 1560.52] Trampled on the ground, you took the fall and thought of me above all. -[1560.52 --> 1582.52] Oh, church of God, look up. -[1582.52 --> 1584.52] What do you see? -[1584.52 --> 1589.52] Above all things, what, who sits on the throne of your heart? -[1589.52 --> 1597.52] Do we sit in cathedrals of our own making, gazing up into the heavens of our own design? -[1597.52 --> 1603.52] How feeble and meager are they when we have the words of the Creator in our hands. -[1603.52 --> 1608.52] To what, to whom will we kneel? -[1608.52 --> 1612.52] What, to whom will we kneel? -[1612.52 --> 1621.52] Acts 17 says, being then God's offspring, we ought not to think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone, -[1621.52 --> 1625.52] an image formed by the art and imagination of man. -[1625.52 --> 1631.52] The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent, -[1631.52 --> 1638.52] because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed. -[1638.52 --> 1645.52] And of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead. -[1645.52 --> 1647.52] Do you not see? -[1647.52 --> 1653.52] You are trading the riches of Christ's glorious inheritance for a false lord over your life. -[1653.52 --> 1655.52] Oh, church of God, look up. -[1655.52 --> 1659.52] Do you see an open, empty heaven awaiting the return of the Savior? -[1659.52 --> 1667.52] Do you look to the word and find assurance that God will come again to judge the living and the dead, answering creation's groaning? -[1667.52 --> 1672.52] And in longing response, do you sing with your heart, -[1672.52 --> 1681.52] Praise the Father, Son, three in one, God of glory, majesty, praise forever to the King of Kings. -[1681.52 --> 1686.52] If anyone serves me, he must follow me. -[1686.52 --> 1689.52] And where I am, there will my servant be also. -[1689.52 --> 1694.52] If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him, Christ said. -[1694.52 --> 1703.52] O Church of God, kneel in reverence to your King, in confession at his feet, and listen to his voice, -[1703.52 --> 1709.52] and know him, to know his cause and live under his command. -[1709.52 --> 1714.52] Set the program together to stand for Now withancy, God will be하세요. -[1714.52 --> 1717.52] In this 7 decades, and move you to practice hisChr benefHH, a great steadfastness. -[1717.52 --> 1721.52] In the process of putting His car in place, in academia and conditioning, -[1721.52 --> 1723.52] In the project number two days, and sit with Randy and Ian personal engagement together. -[1723.52 --> 1726.52] By theme song of charge, the judge against death след can be hunted for humanity and Department of Allegiance. -[1726.52 --> 1730.52] Yes, I realize it is related to the Este�th generation, -[1730.52 --> 1732.52] And there will be aSO Center for Every acompero. -[1732.52 --> 1734.52] 3 mauve Jたちは a Couray in January. -[1734.52 --> 1737.52] 2 phenomenal, and when pasado many times rise and many years lies inside, -[1737.52 --> 1750.06] O kneel me down again -[1750.06 --> 1754.16] Here at your feet -[1754.16 --> 1758.48] Show me how much you love -[1758.48 --> 1761.10] Humility -[1761.10 --> 1767.12] O Spirit be the star -[1767.12 --> 1770.56] That leads me to -[1770.56 --> 1775.50] The humble heart of love -[1775.50 --> 1779.54] I see in you -[1779.54 --> 1784.50] Cause you are the God of the broken -[1784.50 --> 1788.34] The friend of the weak -[1788.34 --> 1792.62] You wash the feet of the weary -[1792.62 --> 1796.28] Embrace the ones in need -[1796.28 --> 1800.60] I want to be like you Jesus -[1800.60 --> 1803.66] To have this heart in me -[1803.66 --> 1808.50] You are the God of the humble -[1808.50 --> 1812.66] You are the humble King -[1812.66 --> 1817.66] O kneel me down again -[1817.66 --> 1821.98] Here at your feet -[1821.98 --> 1826.04] Show me how much you love -[1826.04 --> 1828.04] Humility -[1828.04 --> 1833.98] O Spirit be the star -[1833.98 --> 1838.30] That leads me to -[1838.30 --> 1842.36] The humble heart of love -[1842.36 --> 1843.74] I see in you -[1843.74 --> 1845.74] I see in you -[1845.74 --> 1846.68] I see in you -[1846.68 --> 1851.00] Cause you are the God of the broken -[1851.00 --> 1851.62] The friend of the broken -[1851.62 --> 1855.32] The friend of the weak -[1855.32 --> 1859.38] You wash the feet of the weary -[1859.38 --> 1863.16] Embrace the ones in need -[1863.16 --> 1867.38] I want to be like you Jesus -[1867.38 --> 1870.76] To have this heart in me -[1870.76 --> 1874.76] You are the God of the humble -[1874.76 --> 1878.76] You are the humble King -[1878.76 --> 1885.44] You are the God of the humble -[1885.44 --> 1889.76] You are the humble King -[1889.76 --> 1902.82] Who shall ascend to the hill of the Lord -[1902.82 --> 1905.76] And who shall stand in his holy place -[1905.76 --> 1908.22] He who has clean hands -[1908.22 --> 1909.18] And a pure heart -[1909.18 --> 1910.98] Who does not lift up his soul -[1910.98 --> 1911.88] To what is false -[1911.88 --> 1913.86] And does not swear deceitfully -[1913.86 --> 1916.34] He will receive blessing from the Lord -[1916.34 --> 1917.92] And righteousness from the God -[1917.92 --> 1918.90] Of his salvation -[1918.90 --> 1921.14] Such is the generous gift -[1921.14 --> 1922.44] Of those who seek him -[1922.44 --> 1925.46] Who seek the face of the God of Jacob -[1925.46 --> 1945.16] How I long -[1945.16 --> 1949.38] To breathe the air of heaven -[1949.38 --> 1952.34] Where pain is gone -[1952.34 --> 1956.90] And mercy fills the streets -[1956.90 --> 1959.84] To look upon -[1959.84 --> 1964.48] The one who bled to save me -[1964.48 --> 1967.00] And walk with him -[1967.00 --> 1969.84] For all eternity -[1969.84 --> 1978.00] There will be a day -[1978.00 --> 1981.86] When all will bow before him -[1981.86 --> 1985.02] There will be a day -[1985.02 --> 1989.02] When death will be no more -[1989.02 --> 1992.24] Standing face to face -[1992.24 --> 1997.56] With he who died and rose again -[1997.56 --> 2003.46] Holy, holy is the Lord -[2003.46 --> 2016.96] And every prayer -[2016.96 --> 2020.88] We prayed in desperation -[2020.88 --> 2024.32] The songs of faith -[2024.32 --> 2028.80] We sang through doubt and fear -[2028.80 --> 2030.96] In the end -[2030.96 --> 2031.96] In the end -[2031.96 --> 2036.08] We'll see that it was worth it -[2036.08 --> 2038.18] When he returns -[2038.18 --> 2043.96] To wipe away our tears -[2043.96 --> 2047.12] There will be a day -[2047.12 --> 2049.12] There will be a day -[2049.12 --> 2053.40] When all will bow before him -[2053.40 --> 2056.58] There will be a day -[2056.58 --> 2060.50] When death will be no more -[2060.50 --> 2063.12] Standing face to face -[2063.12 --> 2068.28] With he who died and rose again -[2068.28 --> 2074.28] Holy, holy is the Lord -[2074.28 --> 2087.44] And on that day -[2087.44 --> 2089.44] We'll join the resurrection -[2089.44 --> 2093.44] And stand beside -[2093.44 --> 2094.60] Stand beside -[2094.60 --> 2098.60] The heroes of the faith -[2098.60 --> 2102.60] With one voice -[2102.60 --> 2106.60] A thousand generations -[2106.60 --> 2114.60] Sing, worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[2114.60 --> 2117.76] Sing, worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[2117.76 --> 2119.76] And on that day -[2119.76 --> 2120.76] And on that day -[2120.76 --> 2121.76] We'll join the resurrection -[2121.76 --> 2123.76] And stand beside -[2123.76 --> 2125.76] And stand beside -[2125.76 --> 2127.76] The heroes of the faith -[2127.76 --> 2130.76] With one voice -[2130.76 --> 2134.76] A thousand generations -[2134.76 --> 2141.76] Sing, worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[2141.76 --> 2144.92] Sing, worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[2144.92 --> 2148.92] Forever he shall reign -[2148.92 --> 2156.62] There will be a day -[2156.62 --> 2160.40] When all will bow before him -[2160.40 --> 2163.58] There will be a day -[2163.58 --> 2166.92] When death will be no more -[2166.92 --> 2170.68] Standing face to face -[2170.68 --> 2175.84] With he who died and rose again -[2175.84 --> 2180.84] Holy, holy is the Lord -[2180.84 --> 2183.84] So let it be today -[2183.84 --> 2187.72] We shout the hymn of heaven -[2187.72 --> 2191.34] With angels and the saints -[2191.34 --> 2194.84] We raise a mighty roar -[2194.84 --> 2197.84] Glory to our God -[2197.84 --> 2203.00] Who gave us life beyond the grave -[2203.00 --> 2210.00] Holy, holy is the Lord -[2210.00 --> 2217.00] Holy, holy is the Lord -[2217.00 --> 2224.00] Holy, holy is the Lord -[2224.00 --> 2234.00] Why don't you go ahead and have a seat -[2234.00 --> 2244.40] In just a moment -[2244.40 --> 2249.08] We're going to open and read together from Ephesians 1 -[2249.08 --> 2254.24] And since you are the kind of people -[2254.24 --> 2257.14] Who are here on a Thursday night -[2257.14 --> 2260.52] And interested in what the scriptures have to say -[2260.52 --> 2264.68] I'm going to challenge you to be the kind of people who open it up -[2264.68 --> 2266.76] And have it in front of you -[2266.76 --> 2268.28] Whether in a Bible or on a phone -[2268.28 --> 2269.58] Or something like that -[2269.58 --> 2270.78] In your hands -[2270.78 --> 2272.04] There's a couple Bibles at the back -[2272.24 --> 2273.56] Josh is grabbing some -[2273.56 --> 2275.40] So if you want a physical Bible -[2275.40 --> 2277.24] Raise your hand and Josh will grab one for you -[2277.24 --> 2279.02] One -[2279.02 --> 2280.80] Two -[2280.80 --> 2281.52] Three -[2281.52 --> 2283.56] Josh, earn your paycheck -[2283.56 --> 2296.70] The reason specifically that I want you to have it in front of you -[2296.70 --> 2301.36] Is because we're going to look pretty closely at some of these things here -[2301.36 --> 2303.42] And I just want you to see it -[2303.42 --> 2306.66] Because I really think it's majestic -[2306.66 --> 2310.12] What we're going to see in this text together -[2310.12 --> 2315.16] I'm going to read from Ephesians 1 verse 15 through 23 -[2315.16 --> 2317.48] Before we do that -[2317.48 --> 2319.10] Let's pray together -[2319.10 --> 2324.36] Holy God -[2324.36 --> 2326.36] Heavenly Father, Lord Jesus Christ -[2326.36 --> 2330.60] Stir in us your spirit tonight -[2330.60 --> 2333.88] That we might hear your word -[2333.88 --> 2337.28] That we might see you, Lord Jesus -[2337.28 --> 2338.16] More clearly -[2338.16 --> 2341.04] Not just on these pages -[2341.04 --> 2343.28] But in our hearts -[2343.28 --> 2345.16] And in our imaginations -[2345.16 --> 2348.20] Captivate us tonight -[2348.20 --> 2352.52] By the glory of being underfoot -[2352.52 --> 2355.88] May the truth -[2355.88 --> 2356.58] Lord Jesus -[2356.58 --> 2359.48] That all things have been placed under your feet -[2359.48 --> 2363.52] Be so compelling in our midst tonight -[2363.52 --> 2367.48] We pray this, Jesus, in your holy name -[2367.48 --> 2368.76] Amen -[2368.76 --> 2374.20] From Ephesians 1 -[2374.20 --> 2375.84] Starting at verse 15 -[2375.84 --> 2379.20] For this reason -[2379.20 --> 2383.44] Ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus -[2383.44 --> 2386.24] And your love for all God's people -[2386.24 --> 2388.86] I have not stopped giving thanks for you -[2388.86 --> 2391.56] Remembering you in all my prayers -[2391.56 --> 2396.64] I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ -[2396.64 --> 2397.92] The glorious Father -[2397.92 --> 2401.38] May give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation -[2401.38 --> 2404.36] So that you may know him better -[2404.36 --> 2408.12] I pray that the eyes of your heart -[2408.12 --> 2409.00] May be enlightened -[2409.00 --> 2410.68] In order that you may know -[2410.68 --> 2413.36] The hope to which he has called you -[2413.36 --> 2416.48] The riches of his glorious inheritance -[2416.48 --> 2418.00] In his holy people -[2418.00 --> 2421.50] And his incomparably great power -[2421.50 --> 2423.20] For us who believe -[2423.20 --> 2427.30] That power is the same as the mighty strength -[2427.30 --> 2429.84] He exerted when he raised Christ from the dead -[2429.84 --> 2432.26] And seated him at his right hand -[2432.26 --> 2433.58] In the heavenly realms -[2433.58 --> 2436.40] Far above all rule and authority -[2436.40 --> 2437.68] Power and dominion -[2437.68 --> 2439.74] And every name that is invoked -[2439.74 --> 2441.86] Not only in the present age -[2441.86 --> 2443.84] But also in the one to come -[2443.84 --> 2449.36] And God placed all things under his feet -[2449.36 --> 2451.58] And appointed him to be head -[2451.58 --> 2454.82] Over everything for the church -[2454.82 --> 2456.68] Which is his body -[2456.68 --> 2458.30] The fullness of him -[2458.30 --> 2462.02] Who fills everything in every way -[2462.02 --> 2463.96] This is the word of the Lord -[2463.96 --> 2470.66] Now I've titled this message -[2470.66 --> 2473.46] The Joy of Being Underfoot -[2473.46 --> 2476.72] Not only because -[2476.72 --> 2479.24] That seems like a strange image for us -[2479.24 --> 2480.44] And maybe that is compelling -[2480.44 --> 2484.90] But because what I hope we will see -[2484.90 --> 2488.40] Is the majesty and the joy -[2488.40 --> 2489.72] That you are invited to -[2489.72 --> 2490.64] As Christians -[2490.64 --> 2492.96] As we proclaim the truth -[2492.96 --> 2495.52] Of the ascension of Jesus -[2495.52 --> 2498.94] Now our theme for tonight -[2498.94 --> 2500.46] The sort of big idea -[2500.46 --> 2501.82] That we're going to operate under -[2501.82 --> 2504.12] Comes out of the whole text of course -[2504.12 --> 2505.80] But really and succinctly -[2505.80 --> 2509.12] It is stated in the last two verses -[2509.12 --> 2510.84] That we read -[2510.84 --> 2515.08] God placed all things under his feet -[2515.08 --> 2517.00] And appointed him to be head -[2517.00 --> 2518.86] Over everything for the church -[2518.86 --> 2520.26] Which is his body -[2520.26 --> 2521.68] The fullness of him -[2521.68 --> 2525.38] Who fills everything in every way -[2525.38 --> 2530.70] Now Paul begins this section of scripture -[2530.70 --> 2533.56] By telling us that he is praying -[2533.56 --> 2536.66] For the church that he is writing to -[2536.66 --> 2538.04] The letter of Ephesians -[2538.04 --> 2540.10] Is written to the church in Ephesus -[2540.10 --> 2542.80] Ephesus is a coastal city -[2542.80 --> 2545.02] In what is modern day Turkey -[2545.02 --> 2546.92] On the western side of Turkey -[2546.92 --> 2548.80] Leaning into the Aegean Sea -[2548.80 --> 2550.38] And he prays -[2550.38 --> 2553.22] I have not stopped giving thanks for you -[2553.22 --> 2556.14] Remembering you in all my prayers -[2556.14 --> 2559.06] He thanks God for them -[2559.06 --> 2561.62] And for the stories that he has heard about them -[2561.62 --> 2563.22] Since planting that church -[2563.22 --> 2564.58] And in his other journeys -[2564.58 --> 2565.54] Throughout that region -[2565.54 --> 2567.82] He wants to encourage them -[2567.82 --> 2570.42] And so he prays for their life -[2570.42 --> 2571.68] And for their faith -[2571.68 --> 2575.72] He prays because he wants this fledgling church -[2575.72 --> 2577.26] This young church -[2577.26 --> 2579.78] To know God better -[2579.78 --> 2580.54] Right? -[2580.64 --> 2581.36] Verse 17 -[2581.36 --> 2582.42] He says -[2582.42 --> 2586.64] I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ -[2586.64 --> 2587.70] The glorious Father -[2587.70 --> 2589.42] May give you the spirit of wisdom -[2589.42 --> 2590.84] And of revelation -[2590.84 --> 2595.74] So that you may know him better -[2595.74 --> 2596.98] Right? -[2596.98 --> 2598.22] What he wants for them -[2598.22 --> 2600.98] Is to mature in their faith -[2600.98 --> 2602.48] Right? -[2602.50 --> 2603.78] He wants for them to develop -[2603.78 --> 2605.62] As Christians -[2605.62 --> 2608.46] And so he starts in verse 15 -[2608.46 --> 2609.04] Right? -[2609.12 --> 2611.00] He knows that they are Christians -[2611.00 --> 2613.34] He's heard about their amazing love -[2613.34 --> 2614.30] For each other -[2614.30 --> 2615.98] And he gives thanks to God for them -[2615.98 --> 2617.90] But he doesn't want them to stop there -[2617.90 --> 2620.38] He wants them to keep on growing -[2620.38 --> 2621.88] To keep on developing -[2621.88 --> 2625.02] To become more of who they already are -[2625.02 --> 2626.44] Right? -[2626.46 --> 2628.54] It's not just enough to become -[2628.54 --> 2629.88] You have to be -[2629.88 --> 2631.28] Right? -[2631.30 --> 2633.20] And he wants them to grow -[2633.20 --> 2634.72] In the grace and knowledge -[2634.72 --> 2635.78] Of Jesus -[2635.78 --> 2637.12] And of God -[2637.12 --> 2638.42] Right? -[2638.42 --> 2640.32] Paul knows that in the Bible -[2640.32 --> 2642.64] You read about this over and over and over -[2642.64 --> 2644.42] Idleness of faith -[2644.42 --> 2646.68] Leads to faith in idols -[2646.68 --> 2649.26] I'm going to say that again -[2649.26 --> 2650.60] Idleness of faith -[2650.60 --> 2653.18] Leads to a faith in idols -[2653.18 --> 2654.82] And we don't want that -[2654.82 --> 2656.40] Not then -[2656.40 --> 2657.78] And not now -[2657.78 --> 2660.82] So what Paul wants -[2660.82 --> 2663.20] Is for us to grow -[2663.20 --> 2664.86] To not be idle -[2664.86 --> 2666.42] In our faith -[2666.42 --> 2668.08] And so we start -[2668.08 --> 2670.08] With that focus -[2670.08 --> 2672.24] God placed all things -[2672.24 --> 2673.10] Under his feet -[2673.10 --> 2673.96] And appointed him -[2673.96 --> 2674.82] To be head -[2674.82 --> 2676.14] Over everything -[2676.14 --> 2677.10] For the church -[2677.10 --> 2678.30] Which is his body -[2678.30 --> 2679.50] The fullness of him -[2679.50 --> 2680.84] Who fills everything -[2680.84 --> 2682.20] In every way -[2682.20 --> 2684.12] This line -[2684.12 --> 2684.80] Is the -[2684.80 --> 2685.76] The climax -[2685.76 --> 2686.90] The -[2686.90 --> 2687.90] The climax -[2687.90 --> 2688.92] Of the description -[2688.92 --> 2690.60] Of God's power -[2690.60 --> 2691.32] At work -[2691.32 --> 2692.66] Through the gospel -[2692.66 --> 2694.48] The power of God -[2694.48 --> 2695.82] That raised Christ -[2695.82 --> 2696.74] The power of God -[2696.74 --> 2697.72] That seated him -[2697.72 --> 2698.70] At the right hand -[2698.70 --> 2699.20] Of the Father -[2699.20 --> 2700.06] And the power -[2700.06 --> 2701.26] By which God -[2701.26 --> 2702.00] Has now placed -[2702.00 --> 2703.14] All things -[2703.14 --> 2705.32] Under his feet -[2705.32 --> 2708.42] And it's the same power -[2708.42 --> 2709.20] That has done -[2709.20 --> 2710.22] All of those things -[2710.22 --> 2712.62] That Paul wants us -[2712.62 --> 2713.68] To know -[2713.68 --> 2715.84] That God is giving us -[2715.84 --> 2716.80] Access to -[2716.80 --> 2717.74] And then to live -[2717.74 --> 2718.66] In the confidence -[2718.66 --> 2719.56] Of -[2719.56 --> 2720.52] Right -[2720.52 --> 2721.40] Paul says -[2721.40 --> 2723.20] I pray -[2723.20 --> 2725.52] That the eyes -[2725.52 --> 2726.44] Of your heart -[2726.44 --> 2727.78] May be enlightened -[2727.78 --> 2730.08] I pray -[2730.08 --> 2730.90] That the eyes -[2730.90 --> 2732.02] Of your heart -[2732.02 --> 2732.56] May be -[2732.56 --> 2733.56] Enlightened -[2733.56 --> 2734.40] He prays -[2734.40 --> 2735.68] That we would not have -[2735.68 --> 2736.68] Eyes -[2736.68 --> 2737.82] For physical -[2737.82 --> 2738.64] Things -[2738.64 --> 2739.76] Of this world -[2739.76 --> 2740.60] That we wouldn't -[2740.60 --> 2741.22] Look to the -[2741.22 --> 2742.54] Created things -[2742.54 --> 2743.52] Of this world -[2743.52 --> 2744.28] For hope -[2744.28 --> 2745.20] Or for happiness -[2745.20 --> 2746.12] Or for purpose -[2746.12 --> 2747.62] But that we would -[2747.62 --> 2748.58] As we read elsewhere -[2748.58 --> 2749.74] Walk by faith -[2749.74 --> 2751.12] And not by sight -[2751.12 --> 2752.08] Right -[2752.08 --> 2752.74] He prays -[2752.74 --> 2753.66] For the eyes -[2753.66 --> 2754.74] Of the heart -[2754.74 --> 2755.82] That you -[2755.82 --> 2756.80] Would be able -[2756.80 --> 2758.10] To see the truth -[2758.10 --> 2759.00] That you would be able -[2759.00 --> 2760.24] To see behind -[2760.24 --> 2761.14] The veil -[2761.14 --> 2762.86] What Paul wants -[2762.86 --> 2763.32] For us -[2763.32 --> 2764.34] In this letter -[2764.34 --> 2765.24] And for the church -[2765.24 --> 2765.78] In Ephesus -[2765.78 --> 2766.86] Is to sort of -[2766.86 --> 2767.96] Pull back the curtain -[2767.96 --> 2769.14] And to give them -[2769.14 --> 2770.50] What's called -[2770.50 --> 2770.94] In theology -[2770.94 --> 2772.92] A theophanic vision -[2772.92 --> 2773.86] Right -[2773.86 --> 2774.42] Theos -[2774.42 --> 2775.20] From the Greek word -[2775.20 --> 2775.78] For God -[2775.78 --> 2777.06] And phanos -[2777.06 --> 2777.74] From the Greek word -[2777.74 --> 2778.20] For light -[2778.20 --> 2778.98] And to reveal -[2778.98 --> 2779.74] Right -[2779.74 --> 2780.70] Theophanic vision -[2780.70 --> 2781.38] What Paul wants -[2781.38 --> 2781.78] Is for you -[2781.78 --> 2782.62] To see God -[2782.62 --> 2784.88] To see God -[2784.88 --> 2785.44] At work -[2785.44 --> 2786.42] In the world -[2786.42 --> 2787.92] Right -[2787.92 --> 2789.32] Two thousand years ago -[2789.32 --> 2790.72] And still today -[2790.72 --> 2792.92] To see God -[2792.92 --> 2795.66] Open the eyes -[2795.66 --> 2796.56] Of my heart -[2796.56 --> 2796.86] Lord -[2796.86 --> 2799.24] I want to see Jesus -[2799.24 --> 2800.28] Right -[2800.28 --> 2801.06] That's Paul's prayer -[2801.06 --> 2801.98] For the Ephesians -[2801.98 --> 2803.48] That's our prayer -[2803.48 --> 2804.18] Together -[2804.18 --> 2804.92] Tonight -[2804.92 --> 2807.60] Because -[2807.60 --> 2811.16] I don't know about you -[2811.16 --> 2812.28] In fact -[2812.28 --> 2812.90] That's not true -[2812.90 --> 2813.42] I do know -[2813.42 --> 2814.04] About you -[2814.04 --> 2815.18] Right -[2815.18 --> 2815.66] It's easy -[2815.66 --> 2816.38] To be distracted -[2816.38 --> 2817.86] By the faded glories -[2817.86 --> 2818.52] Of this world -[2818.52 --> 2819.54] It's easy -[2819.54 --> 2820.68] To be overcome -[2820.68 --> 2822.20] By the ultimately -[2822.20 --> 2823.40] Inadequate lusts -[2823.40 --> 2824.72] Of this secular age -[2824.72 --> 2825.64] That still captivate -[2825.64 --> 2826.32] Our hearts -[2826.32 --> 2826.92] But Jesus -[2826.92 --> 2827.66] Wants more -[2827.66 --> 2828.60] For us -[2828.60 --> 2829.96] The pull -[2829.96 --> 2831.02] Of materialism -[2831.02 --> 2832.38] The vain glory -[2832.38 --> 2833.36] Of human pride -[2833.36 --> 2834.30] The pressures -[2834.30 --> 2835.08] Of the imminent -[2835.08 --> 2835.92] And the tyranny -[2835.92 --> 2836.78] Of the urgent -[2836.78 --> 2837.58] All of these -[2837.58 --> 2840.02] Are just so easily -[2840.02 --> 2841.22] Overwhelming -[2841.22 --> 2842.50] Distractions -[2842.50 --> 2844.66] Of our affections -[2844.66 --> 2846.74] For Jesus -[2846.74 --> 2848.62] Instead -[2848.62 --> 2850.38] Instead -[2850.38 --> 2851.44] We want the eyes -[2851.44 --> 2852.10] Of our hearts -[2852.10 --> 2853.00] So fixed -[2853.00 --> 2854.04] On Jesus -[2854.04 --> 2854.62] That we would -[2854.62 --> 2855.66] Run the race -[2855.66 --> 2856.34] That's marked out -[2856.34 --> 2856.90] For us -[2856.90 --> 2857.62] Right -[2857.62 --> 2858.14] We want to make -[2858.14 --> 2859.00] Jesus more -[2859.00 --> 2860.38] And more beautiful -[2860.38 --> 2861.22] In the minds -[2861.22 --> 2862.46] Of all believers -[2862.46 --> 2863.52] So that all those -[2863.52 --> 2864.12] Other things -[2864.12 --> 2865.08] Might fade -[2865.08 --> 2865.88] To the back -[2865.88 --> 2867.70] When our imaginations -[2867.70 --> 2868.86] Are captivated -[2868.86 --> 2869.80] By God -[2869.80 --> 2870.40] Who is able -[2870.40 --> 2871.44] To do even more -[2871.44 --> 2872.16] Than we can ask -[2872.16 --> 2872.90] Or imagine -[2872.90 --> 2873.98] Our hearts -[2873.98 --> 2874.66] Can endure -[2874.66 --> 2876.12] Spiritual storms -[2876.12 --> 2877.50] And physical trials -[2877.50 --> 2878.98] Even if your body -[2878.98 --> 2880.40] Does not endure -[2880.40 --> 2882.44] Right -[2882.44 --> 2883.06] When the eyes -[2883.06 --> 2883.72] Of your heart -[2883.72 --> 2884.52] Are focused -[2884.52 --> 2885.52] On the hope -[2885.52 --> 2886.18] Of God -[2886.18 --> 2887.80] And the riches -[2887.80 --> 2888.50] Of God -[2888.50 --> 2889.26] And the power -[2889.26 --> 2889.76] Of God -[2889.76 --> 2890.96] Displayed in Jesus -[2890.96 --> 2892.04] You can stand -[2892.04 --> 2893.62] Against the devil's schemes -[2893.62 --> 2894.68] You can stand -[2894.68 --> 2895.48] Against the rulers -[2895.48 --> 2896.28] And the powers -[2896.28 --> 2897.18] And the authorities -[2897.18 --> 2898.52] You can stand -[2898.52 --> 2899.36] Against the spiritual -[2899.36 --> 2900.84] Forces of evil -[2900.84 --> 2901.84] That's what Paul -[2901.84 --> 2903.04] Is praying for you -[2903.04 --> 2905.54] I pray that the eyes -[2905.54 --> 2906.14] Of your heart -[2906.14 --> 2907.52] May be enlightened -[2907.52 --> 2911.06] Paul also knows -[2911.06 --> 2913.00] That this way -[2913.00 --> 2913.92] Of seeing -[2913.92 --> 2915.34] And being -[2915.34 --> 2916.58] In the world -[2916.58 --> 2918.20] Is a consequence -[2918.20 --> 2919.42] Of the gift -[2919.42 --> 2920.00] Of grace -[2920.00 --> 2920.84] Is a consequence -[2920.84 --> 2921.62] Of the work -[2921.62 --> 2922.30] And presence -[2922.30 --> 2923.54] Of the Holy Spirit -[2923.54 --> 2924.20] It says -[2924.20 --> 2925.90] May be enlightened -[2925.90 --> 2927.50] This isn't something -[2927.50 --> 2928.62] That you do -[2928.62 --> 2929.94] It's something you pray -[2929.94 --> 2931.84] This isn't something -[2931.84 --> 2932.48] You achieve -[2932.48 --> 2933.20] Through discipline -[2933.20 --> 2934.12] And hard work -[2934.12 --> 2934.76] This is something -[2934.76 --> 2935.54] That you receive -[2935.54 --> 2936.18] By grace -[2936.18 --> 2937.42] And by regeneration -[2937.42 --> 2940.18] One of the scholars -[2940.18 --> 2942.06] That I have read -[2942.06 --> 2943.32] Actually preferred -[2943.32 --> 2944.06] To translate -[2944.06 --> 2944.74] This sentence -[2944.74 --> 2945.42] From Greek -[2945.42 --> 2946.14] In this way -[2946.14 --> 2946.94] They translate it -[2946.94 --> 2948.66] As I pray -[2948.66 --> 2950.32] Since the eyes -[2950.32 --> 2951.00] Of your heart -[2951.00 --> 2952.04] Have been enlightened -[2952.04 --> 2954.48] Do you hear the difference? -[2955.44 --> 2956.82] You start from the place -[2956.82 --> 2957.94] Already enlightened -[2957.94 --> 2959.18] That since you start -[2959.18 --> 2959.72] From the place -[2959.72 --> 2960.18] Of your heart -[2960.18 --> 2961.48] Already being enlightened -[2961.48 --> 2962.98] I pray that you may know -[2962.98 --> 2963.98] The hope of his calling -[2963.98 --> 2965.16] The riches of his inheritance -[2965.16 --> 2966.14] In the church -[2966.14 --> 2967.22] And his surpassingly -[2967.22 --> 2968.68] Magnificent power -[2968.68 --> 2971.20] It's all hinged -[2971.20 --> 2972.24] On what has already -[2972.24 --> 2973.16] Happened -[2973.16 --> 2974.44] By the gospel -[2974.44 --> 2975.50] Being applied -[2975.50 --> 2976.48] To you -[2976.48 --> 2977.52] Right? -[2977.56 --> 2978.52] The gospel of Jesus -[2978.52 --> 2979.06] That says -[2979.06 --> 2979.88] He lived the life -[2979.88 --> 2980.58] I should have lived -[2980.58 --> 2981.64] And died the death -[2981.64 --> 2982.54] That I deserve -[2982.54 --> 2983.56] The gospel of Jesus -[2983.56 --> 2984.30] That says -[2984.30 --> 2985.52] He died on the cross -[2985.52 --> 2986.34] For the sins -[2986.34 --> 2987.58] Of all who believed -[2987.58 --> 2988.84] And who have been called -[2988.84 --> 2989.96] According to his purpose -[2989.96 --> 2990.96] The gospel of Jesus -[2990.96 --> 2991.38] That says -[2991.38 --> 2992.38] Three days later -[2992.38 --> 2993.60] God raised him -[2993.60 --> 2994.30] From the dead -[2994.30 --> 2995.24] The gospel of Jesus -[2995.24 --> 2995.58] That said -[2995.58 --> 2996.88] Forty days after that -[2996.88 --> 2997.60] He ascended -[2997.60 --> 2998.42] To heaven -[2998.42 --> 2999.10] And is seated -[2999.10 --> 2999.98] At the right hand -[2999.98 --> 3001.14] Of God the Father -[3001.14 --> 3003.04] This gospel is yours -[3003.04 --> 3003.82] By grace -[3003.82 --> 3004.74] Through faith -[3004.74 --> 3006.02] And when the gospel -[3006.02 --> 3006.66] Of Jesus -[3006.66 --> 3008.02] Is the power of God -[3008.02 --> 3009.12] Unto salvation -[3009.12 --> 3010.46] Not only for others -[3010.46 --> 3011.58] But also for you -[3011.58 --> 3012.68] In your heart -[3012.68 --> 3013.96] This then -[3013.96 --> 3015.48] What Paul talks about here -[3015.48 --> 3016.42] Becomes your -[3016.42 --> 3018.56] New creation reality -[3018.56 --> 3019.34] That is to say -[3019.34 --> 3021.84] You already have hope -[3021.84 --> 3024.70] You already have riches -[3024.70 --> 3027.36] You already have power -[3027.36 --> 3029.74] And this is where -[3029.74 --> 3030.52] We're going to live -[3030.52 --> 3031.74] And dig -[3031.74 --> 3032.46] Hope -[3032.46 --> 3033.30] Riches -[3033.30 --> 3034.16] Power -[3034.16 --> 3036.70] Now think about this -[3036.70 --> 3037.54] As we come into here -[3037.54 --> 3037.76] Right -[3037.76 --> 3039.24] Imagine with a -[3039.24 --> 3040.42] With a Holy Spirit -[3040.42 --> 3041.70] Imagination for just a moment -[3041.70 --> 3043.38] How would your life -[3043.38 --> 3044.06] Change -[3044.06 --> 3045.10] Right -[3045.10 --> 3046.16] If you took this truth -[3046.16 --> 3047.12] That you already have hope -[3047.12 --> 3048.08] You already have riches -[3048.08 --> 3049.02] You already have power -[3049.02 --> 3050.72] And planted it deep -[3050.72 --> 3051.58] Into the core -[3051.58 --> 3052.50] Of who you are -[3052.50 --> 3054.40] Right -[3054.40 --> 3054.84] Because you see -[3054.84 --> 3055.66] Our struggle -[3055.66 --> 3057.32] Isn't that we need hope -[3057.32 --> 3058.36] Or that we need -[3058.36 --> 3059.06] Heavenly riches -[3059.06 --> 3059.74] Or that we need -[3059.74 --> 3060.40] Heavenly power -[3060.40 --> 3061.16] Our struggle -[3061.16 --> 3062.02] Is that we need -[3062.02 --> 3063.18] The eyes to see it -[3063.18 --> 3065.42] Because we already have it -[3065.42 --> 3068.00] You already have it -[3068.00 --> 3068.72] And so now -[3068.72 --> 3070.16] We have to put it to work -[3070.16 --> 3071.88] Right -[3071.88 --> 3072.46] And so maybe -[3072.46 --> 3073.40] You're walking -[3073.40 --> 3074.08] Through the valley -[3074.08 --> 3075.04] Of the shadow of death -[3075.04 --> 3077.48] Maybe it's a dark night -[3077.48 --> 3078.02] Of the soul -[3078.02 --> 3079.12] For wherever you are -[3079.12 --> 3079.68] At right now -[3079.68 --> 3080.52] Maybe it's a season -[3080.52 --> 3081.02] Of doubt -[3081.02 --> 3082.14] Or unbelief -[3082.14 --> 3083.34] But hope -[3083.34 --> 3084.58] Hope -[3084.58 --> 3085.98] Granted to you by God -[3085.98 --> 3086.98] Hope means -[3086.98 --> 3088.12] That you can walk -[3088.12 --> 3088.92] Through the valley -[3088.92 --> 3090.76] With your head held high -[3090.76 --> 3091.44] You can walk -[3091.44 --> 3092.12] Through the valley -[3092.12 --> 3093.10] With your eyes -[3093.10 --> 3094.26] Wide open -[3094.26 --> 3095.32] Hope means -[3095.32 --> 3095.96] You don't have to be -[3095.96 --> 3097.54] Afraid of the dark -[3097.54 --> 3098.64] Hope means -[3098.64 --> 3099.52] That whatever doubt -[3099.52 --> 3100.88] You are experiencing -[3100.88 --> 3102.46] Is boxed in -[3102.46 --> 3103.78] It is limited -[3103.78 --> 3105.66] Notice -[3105.66 --> 3106.98] You might still be -[3106.98 --> 3107.56] In the valley -[3107.56 --> 3109.12] You might still be -[3109.12 --> 3109.72] In the dark night -[3109.72 --> 3110.14] Of the soul -[3110.14 --> 3111.10] You might still be -[3111.10 --> 3112.60] Having those doubts -[3112.60 --> 3113.22] Right -[3113.22 --> 3114.14] Your circumstances -[3114.14 --> 3114.98] Don't change -[3114.98 --> 3116.32] But hope changes -[3116.32 --> 3117.28] The way you see -[3117.28 --> 3118.36] Your circumstances -[3118.36 --> 3120.76] Right -[3120.76 --> 3121.28] The meaning -[3121.28 --> 3122.48] Of whatever place -[3122.48 --> 3123.24] You are at -[3123.24 --> 3123.92] Right now -[3123.92 --> 3125.44] The meaning you make -[3125.44 --> 3125.96] Of that -[3125.96 --> 3127.10] Isn't despair -[3127.10 --> 3128.26] Or desperation -[3128.26 --> 3129.10] But instead -[3129.10 --> 3130.08] Devotion -[3130.08 --> 3131.26] And dedication -[3131.26 --> 3132.54] To seeing God's -[3132.54 --> 3133.34] Will through -[3133.34 --> 3135.44] That's the power -[3135.44 --> 3136.14] Of hope -[3136.14 --> 3137.30] Right -[3137.30 --> 3138.12] That's the effect -[3138.12 --> 3138.84] Of God -[3138.84 --> 3140.80] Placing everything -[3140.80 --> 3142.28] Under Jesus' -[3143.04 --> 3143.32] Feet -[3143.32 --> 3146.04] Hope -[3146.04 --> 3148.10] And the riches -[3148.10 --> 3149.18] Of his glorious -[3149.18 --> 3149.92] Inheritance -[3149.92 --> 3150.62] In fact the same -[3150.62 --> 3151.90] Pattern and truth -[3151.90 --> 3153.46] Emerges from both -[3153.46 --> 3154.34] The riches of his -[3154.34 --> 3155.26] Glorious inheritance -[3155.26 --> 3157.60] In his holy people -[3157.60 --> 3159.60] Paul says -[3159.60 --> 3161.16] You already have -[3161.16 --> 3162.02] The riches -[3162.02 --> 3163.00] You've already been -[3163.00 --> 3163.68] Given the riches -[3163.68 --> 3164.80] Of his inheritance -[3164.80 --> 3165.64] In the church -[3165.64 --> 3167.70] This is what -[3167.70 --> 3168.32] I want you to see -[3168.32 --> 3168.72] So if you have -[3168.72 --> 3169.08] Your bible -[3169.08 --> 3170.26] Look closely -[3170.26 --> 3170.70] Here -[3170.70 --> 3172.90] Look closely -[3172.90 --> 3174.62] At chapter 1 -[3174.62 --> 3175.80] Verse 3 -[3175.80 --> 3177.60] Chapter 1 -[3177.60 --> 3178.20] Verse 3 -[3178.20 --> 3179.12] Paul says -[3179.12 --> 3180.52] Praise be to God -[3180.52 --> 3181.44] To the God -[3181.44 --> 3181.96] And Father -[3181.96 --> 3182.62] Of our Lord -[3182.62 --> 3183.30] Jesus Christ -[3183.30 --> 3184.40] Who has blessed us -[3184.40 --> 3185.68] In the heavenly realms -[3185.68 --> 3187.36] With every spiritual blessing -[3187.36 --> 3189.48] In Christ -[3189.48 --> 3194.04] You have every spiritual blessing -[3194.04 --> 3195.84] That's how Paul starts the letter -[3195.84 --> 3197.34] You already have them -[3197.34 --> 3198.56] They're in the heavenly realms -[3198.56 --> 3200.32] But you have them -[3200.32 --> 3202.76] Now look at verse 20 -[3202.76 --> 3203.36] Which we read -[3203.36 --> 3206.16] The power is like -[3206.16 --> 3207.54] The working of his mighty strength -[3207.54 --> 3208.68] Which he -[3208.68 --> 3209.40] Or that he -[3209.40 --> 3210.24] Exerted -[3210.24 --> 3211.60] When he raised Christ -[3211.60 --> 3212.20] From the dead -[3212.20 --> 3213.42] And seated him -[3213.42 --> 3215.34] At his right hand -[3215.34 --> 3215.74] Where? -[3216.88 --> 3219.30] In the heavenly realms -[3219.30 --> 3223.16] What's the spiritual blessing -[3223.16 --> 3224.40] That you've already been given -[3224.40 --> 3225.28] In the heavenly realms? -[3227.72 --> 3229.16] The one who is seated -[3229.16 --> 3230.96] In the heavenly realms -[3230.96 --> 3232.88] Right? -[3232.94 --> 3233.68] Christ himself -[3233.68 --> 3235.80] Is your blessing -[3235.80 --> 3236.56] Right? -[3236.60 --> 3237.16] Think about that -[3237.16 --> 3238.22] It's not a promise -[3238.22 --> 3239.30] Of a possession -[3239.30 --> 3241.24] It's a promise -[3241.24 --> 3241.94] Of a person -[3241.94 --> 3243.74] Right? -[3243.76 --> 3245.40] It's not a material blessing -[3245.40 --> 3247.16] But it's a man -[3247.16 --> 3248.48] Right? -[3248.52 --> 3249.00] Your riches -[3249.00 --> 3250.12] Aren't things -[3250.12 --> 3250.84] The riches -[3250.84 --> 3251.88] That you have been promised -[3251.88 --> 3252.46] And given -[3252.46 --> 3254.24] Is God himself -[3254.24 --> 3257.06] Okay now hold that -[3257.06 --> 3257.72] And check that out -[3257.72 --> 3258.48] Paul says -[3258.48 --> 3259.06] I pray -[3259.06 --> 3259.70] That the eyes -[3259.70 --> 3260.20] Of your heart -[3260.20 --> 3260.94] May be enlightened -[3260.94 --> 3262.14] In order that you may know -[3262.14 --> 3263.12] The riches -[3263.12 --> 3264.22] Of his glorious -[3264.22 --> 3265.18] Inheritance -[3265.18 --> 3267.36] In the saints -[3267.36 --> 3269.00] Or in his -[3269.00 --> 3270.96] Holy people -[3270.96 --> 3274.12] The riches -[3274.12 --> 3274.88] Are Christ -[3274.88 --> 3277.06] But there's also more -[3277.06 --> 3279.30] Look at verse 13 -[3279.30 --> 3280.86] Verse 13 -[3280.86 --> 3281.70] We didn't read it -[3281.70 --> 3283.56] You were also -[3283.56 --> 3285.44] Included in Christ -[3285.44 --> 3286.10] When you heard -[3286.10 --> 3286.94] The word of truth -[3286.94 --> 3287.62] The gospel -[3287.62 --> 3290.12] Of your salvation -[3290.12 --> 3292.22] Right? -[3292.30 --> 3293.08] When you believed -[3293.08 --> 3293.82] You were marked -[3293.82 --> 3294.40] In him -[3294.40 --> 3295.22] With a seal -[3295.22 --> 3296.18] The promised -[3296.18 --> 3297.50] Holy Spirit -[3297.50 --> 3298.94] Who is a deposit -[3298.94 --> 3300.26] Guaranteeing our -[3300.26 --> 3301.22] Inheritance -[3301.22 --> 3302.12] There's that word again -[3302.12 --> 3303.24] Until the redemption -[3303.24 --> 3303.88] Of those -[3303.88 --> 3305.26] Who are God's possession -[3305.26 --> 3306.34] To the praise -[3306.34 --> 3307.70] Of his glory -[3307.70 --> 3309.16] Being in Christ -[3309.16 --> 3310.32] Is the spiritual -[3310.32 --> 3311.08] Blessing -[3311.08 --> 3312.80] And being in him -[3312.80 --> 3312.82] And being in him -[3312.82 --> 3314.24] Means that the Holy Spirit -[3314.24 --> 3315.14] The great comforter -[3315.14 --> 3316.50] The breath of God -[3316.50 --> 3317.06] Breathing -[3317.06 --> 3317.50] Holy -[3317.50 --> 3318.30] Sanctified -[3318.30 --> 3319.58] Powerful life -[3319.58 --> 3320.48] Into you -[3320.48 --> 3321.48] Has come -[3321.48 --> 3323.00] Right? -[3323.04 --> 3323.92] The riches of his -[3323.92 --> 3324.92] Glorious inheritance -[3324.92 --> 3325.58] In Jesus -[3325.58 --> 3326.80] And the Spirit -[3326.80 --> 3329.16] The riches -[3329.16 --> 3330.18] Are his -[3330.18 --> 3331.60] Glorious inheritance -[3331.60 --> 3332.68] That is Jesus -[3332.68 --> 3333.86] And the Spirit -[3333.86 --> 3335.22] That's all you need -[3335.22 --> 3335.74] For life -[3335.74 --> 3336.70] And faith -[3336.70 --> 3337.92] Right? -[3337.96 --> 3338.60] And when you have -[3338.60 --> 3339.36] Jesus -[3339.36 --> 3340.90] And the Spirit -[3340.90 --> 3342.80] You have every -[3342.80 --> 3344.66] Spiritual blessing -[3344.66 --> 3346.26] All I have is Christ -[3346.26 --> 3347.32] We will sing -[3347.32 --> 3347.86] In a moment -[3347.86 --> 3349.22] And that makes me -[3349.22 --> 3349.94] The richest -[3349.94 --> 3351.06] Of men -[3351.06 --> 3353.46] And so now -[3353.46 --> 3355.38] Don't confuse -[3355.38 --> 3356.60] The promised -[3356.60 --> 3357.48] Blessing -[3357.48 --> 3359.40] With the promise -[3359.40 --> 3360.32] To be blessed -[3360.32 --> 3362.02] Right? -[3362.02 --> 3362.92] Because in the world today -[3362.92 --> 3364.02] That gets confused -[3364.02 --> 3365.18] Far too often -[3365.18 --> 3366.08] Right? -[3366.08 --> 3366.96] This isn't about -[3366.96 --> 3367.78] Prosperity -[3367.78 --> 3368.76] Here and now -[3368.76 --> 3369.28] And let me be -[3369.28 --> 3369.76] Really honest -[3369.76 --> 3370.92] Most of us here -[3370.92 --> 3371.78] Right? -[3371.84 --> 3372.74] Are incredibly -[3372.74 --> 3373.56] Prosperous -[3373.56 --> 3374.60] In this life -[3374.60 --> 3375.34] From a material -[3375.34 --> 3375.94] Standpoint -[3375.94 --> 3379.66] But maybe -[3379.66 --> 3382.00] What's being exposed -[3382.00 --> 3383.06] Is a spiritual -[3383.06 --> 3383.92] Bankruptcy -[3383.92 --> 3385.76] Right? -[3385.80 --> 3386.54] When your treasure -[3386.54 --> 3387.60] Is treasure -[3387.60 --> 3389.62] Your heart -[3389.62 --> 3390.48] Is weighed down -[3390.48 --> 3391.10] By gold -[3391.10 --> 3391.98] And by things -[3391.98 --> 3393.52] When your treasure -[3393.52 --> 3394.34] Is Jesus -[3394.34 --> 3394.78] Though -[3394.78 --> 3395.70] You are set free -[3395.70 --> 3396.46] To soar -[3396.46 --> 3398.10] Above the rat race -[3398.10 --> 3399.48] When your treasure -[3399.48 --> 3401.68] Is the next best thing -[3401.68 --> 3402.62] Your heart -[3402.62 --> 3403.32] Is wandering -[3403.32 --> 3403.96] And jumping -[3403.96 --> 3405.14] Fickly -[3405.14 --> 3406.20] From one thing -[3406.20 --> 3406.78] To the next -[3406.78 --> 3408.04] But never satisfied -[3408.04 --> 3409.12] As you try to take in -[3409.12 --> 3410.22] More and more -[3410.22 --> 3410.70] And more -[3410.70 --> 3411.24] And you just -[3411.24 --> 3412.28] Constantly feel -[3412.28 --> 3413.12] Empty -[3413.12 --> 3414.80] But when your treasure -[3414.80 --> 3415.62] Is Jesus -[3415.62 --> 3417.26] You're finally able -[3417.26 --> 3418.30] To find rest -[3418.30 --> 3419.94] For your souls -[3419.94 --> 3424.00] In the words -[3424.00 --> 3425.06] Of the Heidelberg -[3425.06 --> 3425.64] Catechism -[3425.64 --> 3427.46] Which is a document -[3427.46 --> 3428.48] That the Reformed -[3428.48 --> 3429.10] Church has -[3429.10 --> 3430.56] Held up -[3430.56 --> 3431.30] As a historic -[3431.30 --> 3432.40] And accurate -[3432.40 --> 3432.96] Summary -[3432.96 --> 3433.48] Of the teachings -[3433.48 --> 3434.10] Of the Bible -[3434.10 --> 3435.16] In question and answer -[3435.16 --> 3435.76] 49 -[3435.76 --> 3437.16] It asks -[3437.16 --> 3438.16] How does -[3438.16 --> 3439.28] Christ's ascension -[3439.28 --> 3440.40] Benefit us? -[3440.46 --> 3441.00] I think we have -[3441.00 --> 3441.56] This slide -[3441.56 --> 3441.80] Right? -[3441.80 --> 3441.88] Right? -[3441.88 --> 3445.76] How does -[3445.76 --> 3446.84] Christ's ascension -[3446.84 --> 3448.12] Benefit us? -[3448.22 --> 3448.92] And at the end -[3448.92 --> 3449.86] Of this beautifully -[3449.86 --> 3451.08] Stated paragraph -[3451.08 --> 3452.92] It says -[3452.92 --> 3453.92] That Christ -[3453.92 --> 3454.40] Jesus -[3454.40 --> 3455.76] Sends his spirit -[3455.76 --> 3456.84] To us on earth -[3456.84 --> 3457.96] As a corresponding -[3457.96 --> 3458.90] Pledge -[3458.90 --> 3460.08] And by the spirit's -[3460.08 --> 3460.52] Power -[3460.52 --> 3461.62] We seek -[3461.62 --> 3463.30] Not earthly things -[3463.30 --> 3464.96] But the things -[3464.96 --> 3465.68] Above -[3465.68 --> 3468.62] God -[3468.62 --> 3470.22] In Jesus -[3470.22 --> 3471.48] And the Holy Spirit -[3471.48 --> 3473.52] Those are the -[3473.52 --> 3474.60] Riches -[3474.60 --> 3476.84] Of his ascension -[3476.84 --> 3478.10] For you -[3478.10 --> 3480.12] And so we have -[3480.12 --> 3480.94] A hope that cannot -[3480.94 --> 3482.00] Spoil or fade -[3482.00 --> 3483.08] We have a riches -[3483.08 --> 3484.18] That will not -[3484.18 --> 3485.00] Ever -[3485.00 --> 3486.06] Fall away -[3486.06 --> 3487.02] Because they are -[3487.02 --> 3487.90] A person -[3487.90 --> 3489.06] They are God himself -[3489.06 --> 3490.04] And lastly -[3490.04 --> 3490.64] We have -[3490.64 --> 3491.52] Power -[3491.52 --> 3493.08] You have -[3493.08 --> 3494.00] Power -[3494.00 --> 3495.22] Now the word -[3495.22 --> 3496.06] That's used here -[3496.06 --> 3496.60] In Greek -[3496.60 --> 3497.86] Is dunamis -[3497.86 --> 3498.94] It's the word -[3498.94 --> 3499.66] That we get -[3499.66 --> 3500.58] The English word -[3500.58 --> 3501.46] Dynamite -[3501.46 --> 3502.00] From -[3502.00 --> 3504.22] God is saying -[3504.22 --> 3504.98] You have -[3504.98 --> 3506.18] Explosive -[3506.18 --> 3506.86] Power -[3506.86 --> 3507.70] You have -[3507.70 --> 3508.70] Transformative -[3508.70 --> 3509.14] Power -[3509.14 --> 3509.98] To change -[3509.98 --> 3510.82] The face -[3510.82 --> 3511.70] Of the earth -[3511.70 --> 3514.94] I grew up -[3514.94 --> 3515.84] In Ontario -[3515.84 --> 3516.56] Every summer -[3516.56 --> 3517.18] We would go -[3517.18 --> 3518.52] To Kilbear Park -[3518.52 --> 3518.94] You guys -[3518.94 --> 3519.58] Have grown up -[3519.58 --> 3520.06] In the mountains -[3520.06 --> 3520.72] And so this -[3520.72 --> 3521.40] Will make sense -[3521.40 --> 3521.82] To you -[3521.82 --> 3523.58] To get to -[3523.58 --> 3524.32] Kilbear Park -[3524.32 --> 3525.20] You have to -[3525.20 --> 3526.00] Travel north -[3526.00 --> 3526.88] From where I grew up -[3526.88 --> 3527.98] Along highway 400 -[3527.98 --> 3528.70] And then after -[3528.70 --> 3529.30] The city of -[3529.30 --> 3529.62] Barry -[3529.62 --> 3530.58] You take -[3530.58 --> 3531.60] Either highway 11 -[3531.60 --> 3532.90] Or highway 400 -[3532.90 --> 3533.46] Extension -[3533.46 --> 3534.98] And to get to -[3534.98 --> 3535.54] Kilbear -[3535.54 --> 3536.04] There was a -[3536.04 --> 3536.92] Two lane road -[3536.92 --> 3539.14] That was -[3539.14 --> 3540.06] Eventually turned -[3540.06 --> 3541.02] Into highway 69 -[3541.02 --> 3542.34] And at some point -[3542.34 --> 3543.72] In my young childhood -[3543.72 --> 3544.52] The government of -[3544.52 --> 3545.38] Ontario decided -[3545.38 --> 3546.34] We are going to -[3546.34 --> 3547.02] Turn this into -[3547.02 --> 3547.94] A major highway -[3547.94 --> 3549.74] And so northern -[3549.74 --> 3550.40] Ontario is -[3550.40 --> 3551.42] Canadian shield -[3551.42 --> 3553.06] So it's hard -[3553.06 --> 3554.62] Granite rock -[3554.62 --> 3556.30] To take a -[3556.30 --> 3557.02] Two lane road -[3557.02 --> 3557.66] And turn it -[3557.66 --> 3558.34] Into a -[3558.34 --> 3559.04] Four lane -[3559.04 --> 3559.64] Sometimes -[3559.64 --> 3560.76] Six lane -[3560.76 --> 3561.32] Highway -[3561.32 --> 3563.46] Takes a lot -[3563.46 --> 3564.46] Of work -[3564.46 --> 3565.56] Particularly -[3565.56 --> 3567.16] It takes a lot -[3567.16 --> 3568.16] Of explosive -[3568.16 --> 3569.32] Work -[3569.32 --> 3570.22] And so over -[3570.22 --> 3570.96] The next number -[3570.96 --> 3571.50] Of years -[3571.50 --> 3572.08] Every year -[3572.08 --> 3572.62] We would drive -[3572.62 --> 3572.88] Up to -[3572.88 --> 3573.52] Kilbear Park -[3573.52 --> 3574.50] And that section -[3574.50 --> 3575.54] That was two lanes -[3575.54 --> 3576.34] Would get shorter -[3576.34 --> 3576.74] And shorter -[3576.74 --> 3577.26] And shorter -[3577.26 --> 3578.40] As the section -[3578.40 --> 3579.22] That was four lanes -[3579.22 --> 3579.78] Would get longer -[3579.78 --> 3580.18] And longer -[3580.18 --> 3580.62] And longer -[3580.62 --> 3581.70] And we would drive -[3581.70 --> 3582.54] Through these places -[3582.54 --> 3583.44] That were just -[3583.44 --> 3584.26] Sheer rock -[3584.26 --> 3585.22] On either side -[3585.22 --> 3586.22] Because it's easier -[3586.22 --> 3587.48] To blow the rock up -[3587.48 --> 3588.58] And build a flat road -[3588.58 --> 3589.54] Than it is to try -[3589.54 --> 3590.28] And move with the grade -[3590.28 --> 3592.42] But what's amazing -[3592.42 --> 3593.90] Is that in order -[3593.90 --> 3594.58] For them to blow -[3594.58 --> 3595.08] That rock -[3595.08 --> 3595.82] They take this -[3595.82 --> 3597.44] Like two inch drill -[3597.44 --> 3598.50] And they core -[3598.50 --> 3599.36] All the way -[3599.36 --> 3600.42] Down the side -[3600.42 --> 3601.16] And they pack it -[3601.16 --> 3602.38] With an explosive -[3602.38 --> 3603.16] And then they -[3603.16 --> 3604.52] Fire off -[3604.52 --> 3605.34] These charges -[3605.34 --> 3606.56] Every two feet -[3606.56 --> 3607.86] Or these core lines -[3607.86 --> 3609.16] Like down the side -[3609.16 --> 3609.64] Of the rock -[3609.64 --> 3610.70] So that now -[3610.70 --> 3611.82] When you drive there -[3611.82 --> 3613.66] On the sheer cliff face -[3613.66 --> 3614.88] There's these perfectly -[3614.88 --> 3617.66] Semi-circular core lines -[3617.66 --> 3619.02] Every two feet -[3619.02 --> 3620.28] Going down -[3620.28 --> 3621.18] Because that's -[3621.18 --> 3622.62] Where the explosive -[3622.62 --> 3623.66] Was -[3623.66 --> 3625.42] The explosive -[3625.42 --> 3627.58] Changed the face -[3627.58 --> 3628.56] Of the earth -[3628.56 --> 3630.08] The geography -[3630.08 --> 3630.86] Of the region -[3630.86 --> 3631.50] Was changed -[3631.50 --> 3632.06] By this -[3632.06 --> 3633.92] Dynamic power -[3633.92 --> 3636.14] That's the kind -[3636.14 --> 3636.82] Of power -[3636.82 --> 3638.68] That you have -[3638.68 --> 3639.88] By virtue -[3639.88 --> 3640.72] Of the Holy Spirit -[3640.72 --> 3642.00] Being in you -[3642.00 --> 3644.20] That's the Holy Spirit -[3644.20 --> 3645.50] Right? -[3645.54 --> 3647.10] As He transforms you -[3647.10 --> 3648.42] You transform -[3648.42 --> 3649.38] Those around you -[3649.38 --> 3650.74] And as we -[3650.74 --> 3651.60] Are transformed -[3651.60 --> 3652.12] Together -[3652.12 --> 3654.08] We are transforming -[3654.08 --> 3654.98] Our neighborhoods -[3654.98 --> 3656.08] And our communities -[3656.08 --> 3657.38] Our workplaces -[3657.38 --> 3658.98] And our third places -[3658.98 --> 3659.68] Our hangouts -[3659.68 --> 3660.42] Our coffee shops -[3660.42 --> 3661.30] Our sports teams -[3661.30 --> 3662.38] This is the power -[3662.38 --> 3663.32] Of God at work -[3663.32 --> 3664.02] In you -[3664.02 --> 3665.36] Changing the face -[3665.36 --> 3666.76] Of the earth -[3666.76 --> 3668.48] Right? -[3668.52 --> 3669.04] And so when God -[3669.04 --> 3669.64] Calls you -[3669.64 --> 3670.54] To something bigger -[3670.54 --> 3671.54] Than yourself -[3671.54 --> 3672.56] And you say -[3672.56 --> 3673.46] I don't think -[3673.46 --> 3674.28] I can do that God -[3674.28 --> 3675.48] That's too big for me -[3675.48 --> 3677.32] You are absolutely right -[3677.32 --> 3679.52] It is too big for you -[3679.52 --> 3681.04] But you know -[3681.04 --> 3682.08] Who it's not too big for? -[3682.86 --> 3683.48] God -[3683.48 --> 3685.72] That's His power -[3685.72 --> 3687.66] God's power -[3687.66 --> 3689.66] God's guarantee -[3689.66 --> 3691.98] God placed everything -[3691.98 --> 3693.14] Under His feet -[3693.14 --> 3694.08] And appointed Him -[3694.08 --> 3694.80] To be head -[3694.80 --> 3696.20] Over everything -[3696.20 --> 3697.42] For the church -[3697.42 --> 3699.58] And so He is the head -[3699.58 --> 3701.04] He is the source -[3701.04 --> 3702.42] Over everything -[3702.42 --> 3704.34] And so now -[3704.34 --> 3705.60] Sometimes -[3705.60 --> 3706.84] You will hear -[3706.84 --> 3709.16] In Reformed circles -[3709.16 --> 3710.82] In Reformed theology -[3710.82 --> 3712.50] Quoting Abraham Kuyper -[3712.50 --> 3713.98] Abraham Kuyper -[3713.98 --> 3715.14] Was a Dutch theologian -[3715.14 --> 3716.00] And politician -[3716.00 --> 3717.74] He was prime minister -[3717.74 --> 3718.52] In the Netherlands -[3718.52 --> 3720.72] In the early 20th century -[3720.72 --> 3721.90] For a period of time -[3721.90 --> 3722.38] As well -[3722.38 --> 3723.74] And he came -[3723.74 --> 3725.42] Across the ocean -[3725.42 --> 3726.32] And spoke at -[3726.32 --> 3727.34] Princeton University -[3727.34 --> 3729.16] In the now famous -[3729.16 --> 3730.18] Stone lectures -[3730.18 --> 3732.10] And one of those lectures -[3732.10 --> 3733.46] He said -[3733.46 --> 3733.96] And this quote -[3733.96 --> 3734.72] Has become famous -[3734.72 --> 3735.26] He says -[3735.26 --> 3736.60] There is not -[3736.60 --> 3737.90] One square inch -[3737.90 --> 3738.72] Of creation -[3738.72 --> 3739.78] Over which Jesus -[3739.78 --> 3741.84] Who is Lord over all -[3741.84 --> 3743.54] Does not say -[3743.54 --> 3744.92] Mine -[3744.92 --> 3749.26] Every square inch -[3749.26 --> 3750.88] Belongs -[3750.88 --> 3752.44] To Him -[3752.44 --> 3754.82] Every square inch -[3754.82 --> 3755.64] Has been put -[3755.64 --> 3758.28] Under His feet -[3758.28 --> 3760.48] And here is what -[3760.48 --> 3761.10] I want you to hear -[3761.10 --> 3763.70] If everything -[3763.70 --> 3764.60] Is His -[3764.60 --> 3766.60] You -[3766.60 --> 3767.62] Have nothing -[3767.62 --> 3768.14] To give -[3768.14 --> 3768.64] That is not -[3768.64 --> 3769.40] Already His -[3769.40 --> 3771.12] But -[3771.12 --> 3772.90] He gives you -[3772.90 --> 3774.22] Everything -[3774.22 --> 3775.70] Because He has -[3775.70 --> 3776.30] Given you -[3776.30 --> 3777.04] Himself -[3777.04 --> 3780.10] God has given you -[3780.10 --> 3781.04] Jesus -[3781.04 --> 3781.94] He has given you -[3781.94 --> 3782.66] Himself -[3782.66 --> 3783.18] And so -[3783.18 --> 3783.92] He has given you -[3783.92 --> 3784.50] Hope -[3784.50 --> 3785.62] And He has given you -[3785.62 --> 3786.32] Riches -[3786.32 --> 3787.12] And He has given you -[3787.12 --> 3787.86] Power -[3787.86 --> 3790.32] That is the impact -[3790.32 --> 3791.02] Of the gospel -[3791.02 --> 3792.10] Of our ascended -[3792.10 --> 3792.86] Savior -[3792.86 --> 3793.78] And King -[3793.78 --> 3796.20] And that -[3796.20 --> 3798.76] That is the joy -[3798.76 --> 3801.34] Of being underfoot -[3801.34 --> 3803.86] The fullness of Him -[3803.86 --> 3805.06] Who fills everything -[3805.06 --> 3806.54] In every way -[3806.54 --> 3809.12] Gospel hope -[3809.12 --> 3811.12] Gospel riches -[3811.12 --> 3812.90] Gospel inheritance -[3812.90 --> 3814.70] Gospel power -[3814.70 --> 3816.80] And so I pray -[3816.80 --> 3818.28] Joining with Paul -[3818.28 --> 3820.48] May the eyes -[3820.48 --> 3821.32] Of your heart -[3821.32 --> 3822.80] And the affections -[3822.80 --> 3823.64] Of your soul -[3823.64 --> 3825.02] See Jesus -[3825.02 --> 3826.62] And live -[3826.62 --> 3828.56] May your imaginations -[3828.56 --> 3829.38] Be stirred -[3829.38 --> 3830.34] The glory -[3830.34 --> 3831.56] Of the ascension -[3831.56 --> 3832.18] Of Jesus -[3832.18 --> 3834.28] For your everyday life -[3834.28 --> 3835.26] And so be -[3835.26 --> 3836.36] Hopeful -[3836.36 --> 3838.40] Live richly -[3838.40 --> 3839.12] Blessed -[3839.12 --> 3840.36] And lastly -[3840.36 --> 3841.06] Go -[3841.06 --> 3842.34] Go -[3842.34 --> 3843.48] Go with the power -[3843.48 --> 3844.48] Of God -[3844.48 --> 3845.22] Himself -[3845.22 --> 3848.32] All you have -[3848.32 --> 3850.06] Is Christ -[3850.06 --> 3852.42] And Christ -[3852.42 --> 3854.18] Is all you need -[3854.18 --> 3855.52] Amen -[3855.52 --> 3857.40] Let's pray together -[3857.40 --> 3858.48] I'm going to invite you -[3858.48 --> 3858.94] To stand -[3858.94 --> 3859.64] As we pray -[3859.64 --> 3871.20] Lord Jesus -[3871.20 --> 3873.60] May we -[3873.60 --> 3874.16] Together -[3874.16 --> 3875.38] See the -[3875.38 --> 3876.08] Beauty -[3876.08 --> 3877.08] And joy -[3877.08 --> 3878.10] Of being -[3878.10 --> 3880.02] Underfoot -[3880.02 --> 3882.10] May we -[3882.10 --> 3882.56] Together -[3882.56 --> 3883.74] Be compelled -[3883.74 --> 3884.80] And captivated -[3884.80 --> 3885.74] By the joy -[3885.74 --> 3886.38] Of seeing -[3886.38 --> 3887.14] And knowing -[3887.14 --> 3887.70] Again -[3887.70 --> 3889.12] That all things -[3889.12 --> 3889.62] Have been -[3889.62 --> 3890.58] Placed -[3890.58 --> 3891.84] Under your -[3891.84 --> 3892.64] Feet -[3892.64 --> 3893.98] And that you -[3893.98 --> 3894.72] Have been appointed -[3894.72 --> 3895.86] To be head -[3895.86 --> 3896.96] Over everything -[3896.96 --> 3898.02] For the church -[3898.02 --> 3898.92] Such that there is -[3898.92 --> 3899.70] Now not -[3899.70 --> 3900.94] One thing -[3900.94 --> 3902.60] Over which you -[3902.60 --> 3903.34] Do not claim -[3903.34 --> 3904.18] Mine -[3904.18 --> 3907.40] Lord Jesus -[3907.40 --> 3908.64] Be for us -[3908.64 --> 3909.46] Our all -[3909.46 --> 3910.22] In -[3910.22 --> 3911.16] All -[3911.16 --> 3913.70] And send us -[3913.70 --> 3913.92] Out -[3913.92 --> 3914.38] Knowing -[3914.38 --> 3915.46] Hope -[3915.46 --> 3916.06] That we -[3916.06 --> 3916.48] Have from -[3916.48 --> 3916.68] You -[3916.68 --> 3917.44] Send us -[3917.44 --> 3917.70] Out -[3917.70 --> 3918.32] Knowing -[3918.32 --> 3918.78] That we -[3918.78 --> 3919.56] Are richly -[3919.56 --> 3919.98] Blessed -[3919.98 --> 3920.92] By you -[3920.92 --> 3922.02] With you -[3922.02 --> 3923.72] And send -[3923.72 --> 3924.14] Us out -[3924.14 --> 3924.46] In the -[3924.46 --> 3925.00] Power -[3925.00 --> 3925.86] Of the -[3925.86 --> 3926.12] Holy -[3926.12 --> 3926.52] Spirit -[3926.52 --> 3927.68] To transform -[3927.68 --> 3928.74] This world -[3928.74 --> 3929.78] Even as -[3929.78 --> 3930.22] We -[3930.22 --> 3931.14] Are being -[3931.14 --> 3931.96] Transformed -[3931.96 --> 3932.38] By the -[3932.38 --> 3932.96] Renewing -[3932.96 --> 3933.68] Of our -[3933.68 --> 3934.20] Minds -[3934.20 --> 3935.54] In Christ -[3935.54 --> 3935.88] Jesus -[3935.88 --> 3936.42] We pray -[3936.42 --> 3937.32] Everyone -[3937.32 --> 3937.68] Said -[3937.68 --> 3938.88] Amen -[3938.88 --> 3963.20] Hallelujah -[3963.20 --> 3965.20] Hallelujah -[3965.20 --> 3967.44] All I -[3967.44 --> 3969.78] Have is -[3969.78 --> 3970.90] Christ -[3970.90 --> 3972.26] Hallelujah -[3972.26 --> 3976.26] Jesus -[3976.86 --> 3978.26] Is -[3978.26 --> 3979.62] My -[3979.62 --> 3981.34] Life -[3981.34 --> 3984.26] I once -[3984.26 --> 3985.26] Was lost -[3985.92 --> 3986.38] In -[3986.38 --> 3987.26] Darkest -[3987.26 --> 3988.04] Night -[3988.04 --> 3988.82] Yet -[3988.82 --> 3989.36] Thought -[3989.36 --> 3990.58] I knew -[3990.58 --> 3991.26] The -[3991.26 --> 3992.26] Way -[3992.26 --> 3993.26] The -[3993.26 --> 3994.30] Sing -[3994.30 --> 3994.72] That -[3994.72 --> 3995.26] Promised -[3995.26 --> 3996.26] Joy -[3996.26 --> 3997.06] Joy -[3997.06 --> 3997.32] And -[3997.32 --> 3998.08] Life -[3998.08 --> 3998.82] Had -[3998.82 --> 3999.32] Led -[3999.32 --> 3999.66] Me -[3999.66 --> 4000.56] To -[4000.56 --> 4001.66] The -[4001.66 --> 4003.16] Great -[4003.16 --> 4003.84] I -[4003.84 --> 4004.32] Had -[4004.32 --> 4004.70] No -[4004.70 --> 4005.60] Hope -[4005.60 --> 4006.38] That -[4006.38 --> 4006.86] You -[4006.86 --> 4007.32] Would -[4007.32 --> 4008.08] Own -[4008.08 --> 4009.00] A -[4009.00 --> 4009.58] Rebel -[4009.58 --> 4010.60] To -[4010.60 --> 4012.20] Your -[4012.20 --> 4013.08] Will -[4013.08 --> 4013.98] And -[4013.98 --> 4014.42] If -[4014.42 --> 4014.80] You -[4014.80 --> 4015.66] Had -[4015.66 --> 4016.40] Not -[4016.40 --> 4016.90] Loved -[4016.90 --> 4017.26] Me -[4017.26 --> 4018.16] First -[4018.16 --> 4018.96] I -[4018.96 --> 4019.44] Would -[4019.44 --> 4021.48] Refuse -[4021.48 --> 4022.30] You -[4022.30 --> 4022.84] Still -[4022.84 --> 4031.64] But -[4031.64 --> 4032.06] As -[4032.06 --> 4032.48] I -[4032.48 --> 4033.12] Ran -[4033.12 --> 4034.12] My -[4034.12 --> 4034.82] Help -[4034.82 --> 4035.06] And -[4035.06 --> 4035.92] Graze -[4035.92 --> 4037.24] Indifferent -[4037.24 --> 4038.14] To -[4038.14 --> 4039.82] The -[4039.82 --> 4040.88] Cross -[4040.88 --> 4041.52] You -[4041.52 --> 4042.20] Looked -[4042.20 --> 4043.12] Upon -[4043.12 --> 4044.16] My -[4044.16 --> 4045.02] Helpless -[4045.02 --> 4045.84] State -[4045.84 --> 4046.64] And -[4046.64 --> 4047.12] Led -[4047.12 --> 4047.46] Me -[4047.46 --> 4048.18] To -[4048.18 --> 4049.74] The -[4049.74 --> 4050.86] Cross -[4050.86 --> 4051.72] And -[4051.72 --> 4052.16] I -[4052.16 --> 4053.40] Beheld -[4053.40 --> 4054.26] God's -[4054.26 --> 4054.64] Love -[4054.64 --> 4056.02] Displayed -[4056.02 --> 4056.58] You -[4056.58 --> 4057.62] Suffered -[4057.62 --> 4059.12] In -[4059.12 --> 4059.88] My -[4059.88 --> 4060.88] Place -[4060.88 --> 4061.56] You -[4061.56 --> 4062.10] Bore -[4062.10 --> 4062.40] The -[4062.40 --> 4063.36] Wrath -[4063.36 --> 4064.54] Reserved -[4064.54 --> 4064.98] For -[4064.98 --> 4065.54] Me -[4065.54 --> 4066.62] Now -[4066.62 --> 4067.12] All -[4067.12 --> 4067.50] I -[4067.50 --> 4068.34] Know -[4068.34 --> 4070.04] Is -[4070.04 --> 4071.16] Grace -[4071.16 --> 4074.98] Hallelujah -[4074.98 --> 4077.44] Hallelujah -[4077.44 --> 4079.48] All -[4079.48 --> 4079.90] I -[4079.90 --> 4081.56] Have -[4081.56 --> 4082.34] Is -[4082.34 --> 4083.40] Christ -[4083.40 --> 4085.02] Hallelujah -[4085.02 --> 4089.44] Jesus -[4089.44 --> 4091.40] Is -[4091.40 --> 4092.20] My -[4092.20 --> 4093.52] Life -[4093.52 --> 4096.48] Now -[4096.48 --> 4096.96] Lord -[4096.96 --> 4097.38] I -[4097.38 --> 4098.06] Would -[4098.06 --> 4099.06] Be -[4099.06 --> 4099.80] Yours -[4099.80 --> 4100.58] Alone -[4100.58 --> 4101.72] And -[4101.72 --> 4102.16] Live -[4102.16 --> 4102.58] So -[4102.58 --> 4103.12] All -[4103.12 --> 4105.02] Might -[4105.02 --> 4106.06] See -[4106.06 --> 4106.72] The -[4106.72 --> 4107.26] Strength -[4107.26 --> 4107.58] To -[4107.58 --> 4109.08] Follow -[4109.08 --> 4109.96] Your -[4109.96 --> 4111.12] Commands -[4111.12 --> 4111.92] Could -[4111.92 --> 4112.54] Never -[4112.54 --> 4114.34] Come -[4114.34 --> 4115.30] From -[4115.30 --> 4116.16] Me -[4116.16 --> 4116.88] Oh -[4116.88 --> 4117.50] Father -[4117.50 --> 4118.70] Use -[4118.70 --> 4119.38] My -[4119.38 --> 4120.22] Ransom -[4120.22 --> 4121.22] Life -[4121.22 --> 4122.02] In -[4122.02 --> 4122.64] Any -[4122.64 --> 4123.38] Way -[4123.38 --> 4125.02] You -[4125.02 --> 4126.16] Choose -[4126.16 --> 4126.86] And -[4126.86 --> 4127.28] Let -[4127.28 --> 4127.68] My -[4127.68 --> 4128.56] Song -[4128.56 --> 4129.88] Forever -[4129.88 --> 4130.88] Be -[4130.88 --> 4131.88] My -[4131.88 --> 4132.52] Only -[4132.52 --> 4134.28] Post -[4134.28 --> 4135.22] Is -[4135.22 --> 4136.16] You -[4136.16 --> 4137.56] Hallelujah -[4137.56 --> 4140.12] Hallelujah -[4140.12 --> 4140.74] Hallelujah -[4140.74 --> 4144.52] All -[4144.52 --> 4144.98] I -[4144.98 --> 4146.60] Have -[4146.60 --> 4147.32] Is -[4147.32 --> 4148.30] Christ -[4148.30 --> 4149.90] Hallelujah -[4149.90 --> 4154.38] Jesus -[4154.38 --> 4155.12] Is -[4155.12 --> 4156.50] My -[4156.50 --> 4158.22] Life -[4158.22 --> 4159.12] Hallelujah -[4159.12 --> 4164.02] All -[4164.02 --> 4164.48] I -[4164.48 --> 4166.12] Have -[4166.12 --> 4166.86] Is -[4166.86 --> 4167.92] Christ -[4167.92 --> 4169.12] Hallelujah -[4169.12 --> 4173.12] Jesus -[4173.12 --> 4175.12] Is -[4175.12 --> 4176.12] My -[4176.12 --> 4177.12] Life -[4177.12 --> 4178.12] Jesus -[4178.12 --> 4179.12] Is -[4179.12 --> 4180.12] My -[4180.12 --> 4181.12] Life -[4181.12 --> 4182.12] Jesus -[4182.12 --> 4183.12] Is -[4183.12 --> 4184.12] My -[4184.12 --> 4185.76] , -[4185.76 --> 4187.78] Life -[4187.78 --> 4208.86] F -[4208.86 --> 4209.38] the -[4209.38 --> 4209.78] the -[4209.78 --> 4210.80] the -[4210.80 --> 4213.78] The -[4213.78 --> 4216.78] Amen. -[4235.30 --> 4240.78] Crown Him with many crowns, -[4240.78 --> 4247.08] The Lamb upon His throne -[4247.08 --> 4253.76] Hark how the heavenly anthem drown -[4253.76 --> 4259.84] All music but its own -[4259.84 --> 4265.96] Awake my soul and sing -[4265.96 --> 4272.12] Of Him who died for thee -[4272.12 --> 4278.36] And hail Him as thy matchless King -[4278.36 --> 4282.64] Through all eternity -[4282.64 --> 4290.42] Crown Him the Lord of life -[4290.42 --> 4296.26] Who triumphed o'er the grave -[4296.26 --> 4302.52] Who rose victorious in the strife -[4302.52 --> 4307.92] For those He came to save -[4307.92 --> 4314.34] His glories now we sing -[4314.34 --> 4320.42] Who died and reigns on high -[4320.42 --> 4325.92] Who died eternal life to bring -[4326.46 --> 4331.92] And lives that death may die -[4331.92 --> 4338.68] Crown Him the Lord of love -[4338.68 --> 4344.56] Behold His hands and side -[4344.56 --> 4351.02] Rich wounds yet visible above -[4351.02 --> 4355.92] In beauty glorified -[4355.92 --> 4361.92] No angels in the sky -[4361.92 --> 4369.20] Can fully bear that sight -[4369.20 --> 4374.92] But downward bend their burning eyes -[4375.58 --> 4380.92] At mysteries so bright -[4380.92 --> 4388.20] Crown Him the Lord of peace -[4388.20 --> 4394.34] His kingdom is at hand -[4394.34 --> 4398.08] From pole to pole -[4398.08 --> 4400.82] Let warfare cease -[4400.82 --> 4406.92] And Christ rule every land -[4406.92 --> 4413.18] All hail Redeemer hail -[4413.18 --> 4418.16] For you have died for me -[4418.16 --> 4425.56] Your praise shall never, never fail -[4425.56 --> 4429.92] Throughout eternity -[4429.92 --> 4440.20] Amen -[4440.20 --> 4440.40] Amen -[4440.40 --> 4442.48] Isn't Ascension Day awesome? -[4443.80 --> 4448.02] As you go, know that you go with God -[4448.02 --> 4451.34] With the hope of God -[4451.34 --> 4454.96] With the incomparable riches of God -[4454.96 --> 4459.82] And with the dynamic power of God -[4459.82 --> 4462.90] Go with God -[4462.90 --> 4465.98] And so receive His blessing -[4465.98 --> 4469.20] The Lord bless you -[4469.20 --> 4470.60] And keep you -[4470.60 --> 4473.16] The Lord make His face to shine upon you -[4473.16 --> 4475.18] And be gracious to you -[4475.18 --> 4478.32] The Lord turn His face towards you -[4478.32 --> 4481.68] And give you His peace -[4481.68 --> 4483.60] Amen -[4483.60 --> 4507.50] Lord my heart can grow -[4507.50 --> 4511.76] So far away and cold -[4511.76 --> 4514.00] And yet for me -[4514.00 --> 4519.10] Your love is still the same -[4519.10 --> 4523.58] Lord I bend my knee -[4523.58 --> 4527.72] In awe and fear of Thee -[4527.72 --> 4530.04] My head bow down -[4530.04 --> 4534.76] In reverence to Your name -[4534.76 --> 4539.36] I lift Your name -[4539.36 --> 4543.18] Your holy name -[4543.18 --> 4550.92] Jehovah God and O Him -[4550.92 --> 4554.56] The great I am -[4554.56 --> 4558.30] The risen Lamb -[4558.30 --> 4563.30] My comforter and King -[4563.30 --> 4569.30] Lord my heart's desire -[4569.30 --> 4573.30] Is to be filled with spirit fire -[4573.30 --> 4576.30] My purpose is to worship You -[4576.30 --> 4580.30] My purpose is to worship You alone -[4580.30 --> 4584.30] Open up my soul -[4584.30 --> 4585.12] Open up my soul -[4585.12 --> 4588.30] To worship and adore -[4588.30 --> 4591.30] To be a fragrance -[4591.30 --> 4591.74] To be a fragrance -[4591.74 --> 4595.30] Offer to Your throne -[4595.30 --> 4600.30] I lift Your name -[4600.30 --> 4603.30] Your holy name -[4603.30 --> 4610.30] Jehovah God and O Him -[4610.30 --> 4614.30] The great I am -[4614.30 --> 4618.30] The risen Lamb -[4618.30 --> 4624.30] My comforter and King -[4624.30 --> 4625.30] I lift Your name -[4625.30 --> 4629.30] I lift Your name -[4629.30 --> 4631.30] Your holy name -[4631.30 --> 4635.30] Jehovah God and O Him -[4635.30 --> 4637.30] The great I am -[4637.30 --> 4639.30] Jehovah God and O Him -[4639.30 --> 4641.30] The great I am -[4641.30 --> 4646.30] The risen Lamb -[4646.30 --> 4649.30] The risen Lamb -[4649.30 --> 4656.30] My comforter and King -[4671.30 --> 4672.30] The還有 I am -[4672.30 --> 4675.16] The risen Lamb -[4675.16 --> 4676.30] The・ the risen Lamb -[4676.30 --> 4678.30] The risen Hope -[4678.30 --> 4679.30] I lift Your name -[4679.58 --> 4680.30] the treatments -[4680.30 --> 4682.30] The river -[4682.30 --> 4684.30] Theمن -[4684.30 --> 4684.44] The beauty -[4684.44 --> 4686.30] The fire -[4686.30 --> 4687.30] The rez -[4687.30 --> 4689.30] The risen Caption -[4689.30 --> 4690.30] Theinst disposal -[4690.30 --> 4691.30] The scholarships -[4691.30 --> 4692.50] Potions -[4692.50 --> 4694.30] series -[4694.30 --> 4695.30] Machine -[4695.30 --> 4696.30] The illegal -[4696.30 --> 4698.14] How do you -[4698.14 --> 4699.18] Give the -[4699.18 --> 4700.30] the smooth -[4700.30 --> 4701.28] covid-op lattice -[4701.30 --> 4731.28] guitar solo -[4731.30 --> 4761.28] guitar solo diff --git a/Ascension Day - May 26, 2022_summary.txt b/Ascension Day - May 26, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2beb67861b22e502bba5d04343935a436ce93710..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Ascension Day - May 26, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,50 +0,0 @@ -• Faith and trust -• Presence and break strongholds -• Victory over adversity -• Healing and restoration -• Worship and praise of God -• Breakthrough and overcoming challenges -• God's power and presence in life -• Assurance and confidence in God's plan -• Exaltation of the King -• Crown Him as Lord of life and love -• Jesus' triumph over death and grave -• His glories now sung by believers -• Eternal reign of Christ -• Praise to the Redeemer for dying and reigning on high -• Hail to the King who has died for me -• He is exalted, the King forever reigns -• The importance of worshiping and glorifying Jesus Christ as King -• John 14:2-3, Jesus promises to prepare a place in His Father's house for those who believe in Him -• Thomas' doubt and questioning of Jesus' plans -• Jesus' promise that He will send the Holy Spirit to teach and guide believers after He leaves -• The source of peace and comfort that comes from trusting in Jesus -• The importance of prayer and faith -• Doubts and uncertainty in a world where what is seen may not be true -• Trusting in God's word and revelation over time -• Hope and forgiveness through Jesus Christ -• Striving to change oneself to live for God's kingdom -• Renewal of the heart and spirit through prayer -• Praise and worship of Jesus Christ -• Redemption and salvation through Jesus' sacrifice -• Jesus' reign and victory -• The power and authority of God in the heavenly realms -• The Holy Spirit and its role in believers' lives -• Faith, doubt, and questions about God's presence and actions -• The importance of waiting on God's timing and trust -• The speaker is experiencing a time of uncertainty and questioning God's presence. -• Jesus' words reassure the speaker that He has not left them, but will return. -• Jesus gives His authority to the speaker and commissions them to make disciples. -• The Holy Spirit is given to empower believers to be witnesses to all nations. -• Jesus' Ascension is recalled as a time of great hope and promise. -• A prayer service is conducted with confidence in God's hearing and response. -• Confidence in Jesus Christ -• Waiting for the establishment of God's kingdom on earth -• The presence and power of the Holy Spirit in believers' lives -• Hope and encouragement to continue witnessing the gospel -• Call to spread the gospel to all nations and communities -• Christ's blood has redeemed the speaker and removed sin's curse -• The power of Christ gives the speaker no guilt or fear in life or death -• Jesus commands the speaker's destiny from birth to death -• No human scheme can separate the speaker from God's hand until their return or death -• The speaker will stand firm in the power of Christ against any earthly or heavenly opposition \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Ascension Day - May 26, 2022_transcript.txt b/Ascension Day - May 26, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index cbda7875f4be8acad0b58766ccc17f8480182832..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Ascension Day - May 26, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,795 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 18.00] I believe there will be faith through in your power. -[18.62 --> 20.40] Be your presence. -[21.56 --> 23.00] Break strongholds. -[24.04 --> 25.68] King of heaven. -[25.68 --> 30.88] When you speak, my heart stays blue -[30.88 --> 36.00] I believe you will be brave -[36.00 --> 39.68] Yeah, yeah -[39.68 --> 45.52] You will be brave -[45.52 --> 49.28] I know, I know, I know -[49.28 --> 70.48] I know, I know -[70.48 --> 72.48] You're healing now, God -[72.48 --> 80.96] You're moving, you're healing, you're speaking -[80.96 --> 84.48] Yeah, yeah, yeah -[84.48 --> 93.92] There will be victory -[93.92 --> 96.48] There won't be victory -[96.48 --> 98.80] I know, I know, I know -[98.80 --> 99.92] Yeah -[102.48 --> 122.24] There will be victory here -[122.24 --> 127.28] There will be victory here -[127.28 --> 131.74] There will be, there will be victory -[131.74 --> 133.20] Oh -[133.20 --> 142.42] There will be, there will be victory here -[142.42 --> 147.46] There will be, there will be victory here -[147.46 --> 153.76] There will be, there will be victory, yeah. -[154.16 --> 156.54] I know, I know, yeah. -[157.32 --> 159.34] There will be, come on. -[159.86 --> 166.84] There will be, there will be victory. -[167.62 --> 176.00] There will be, there will be victory, oh, yeah. -[177.46 --> 182.80] There will be, there will be victory here. -[182.80 --> 187.84] There will be, there will be victory here. -[188.06 --> 193.26] There will be, there will be victory here. -[195.18 --> 199.72] We believe, shake the mountains, shake the mountains. -[199.94 --> 200.48] You sing. -[200.48 --> 206.48] With the Lord, Lord, in the heavens, almighty God. -[206.48 --> 208.02] God is the one. -[208.40 --> 209.82] Overcomer. -[210.02 --> 210.32] Yeah. -[210.66 --> 212.86] Defender of my heart. -[213.24 --> 213.54] Yeah. -[216.44 --> 217.76] Come on. -[218.20 --> 223.16] And by your power, the oceans open wide. -[223.26 --> 225.36] Your fire boils down. -[225.82 --> 228.20] Heaven enters your life. -[228.20 --> 230.36] King Jesus. -[230.86 --> 233.22] Forever by my side. -[233.22 --> 234.18] Shake the mountains. -[234.18 --> 235.10] Shake the mountains. -[235.10 --> 235.18] Shake the mountains. -[238.18 --> 240.18] Shake the mountains. -[241.18 --> 242.60] Oh, yeah. -[243.18 --> 245.16] So take your hands. -[245.98 --> 248.48] Almighty God, you are. -[249.48 --> 250.56] Overcomer. -[251.14 --> 253.64] Defender of my heart. -[253.64 --> 255.18] By your power. -[255.18 --> 255.38] By your power. -[255.38 --> 255.48] By your power. -[255.48 --> 255.64] By your power. -[255.64 --> 256.60] By your power. -[256.60 --> 257.10] Yeah. -[257.10 --> 257.60] Yeah. -[257.60 --> 260.40] And by your power. -[260.40 --> 263.36] The oceans open wide. -[263.36 --> 265.10] So find more. -[265.10 --> 266.64] Heaven is in heaven. -[266.64 --> 267.86] Heaven is in heaven. -[267.86 --> 268.60] I'm not. -[268.60 --> 270.58] King Jesus. -[271.36 --> 274.48] Forever by my side. -[274.48 --> 276.60] Yeah. -[276.60 --> 276.88] Yeah. -[276.88 --> 277.88] We know. -[277.88 --> 278.88] We know. -[278.88 --> 279.88] We know. -[279.88 --> 280.88] We know. -[280.88 --> 281.88] We know. -[281.88 --> 290.72] That there will be breakthrough. -[290.72 --> 291.22] And. -[291.22 --> 291.64] Yeah. -[291.76 --> 295.72] We know. -[295.72 --> 298.72] Yeah. -[298.72 --> 302.68] We know. -[302.68 --> 303.56] We know. -[303.56 --> 304.14] We know. -[304.40 --> 305.06] We know. -[306.30 --> 308.68] But there will be breakthrough. -[308.68 --> 311.08] Yeah. -[311.08 --> 319.00] There will be breakthrough -[319.00 --> 328.98] Good evening, everyone. -[329.78 --> 333.52] It's good to get together and to praise the Lord. -[333.52 --> 342.44] We are grateful for this opportunity to worship God in praise, in song, and in prayer together. -[343.30 --> 345.42] We're going to sing a whole bunch of songs tonight, -[345.60 --> 351.08] and so I encourage you as you are able and as you are moved to stand, -[351.16 --> 356.40] and then if you would like to sit either as you reflect or because we've been standing for far too long, -[356.80 --> 357.94] go ahead and do that. -[357.94 --> 365.88] We will engage in the motions of worship as you are moved and compelled together this evening. -[366.38 --> 371.22] If you want some space so that you can spread out and raise your hands, there's lots for that too. -[372.00 --> 373.48] So by all means, go ahead. -[374.24 --> 377.78] If you're joining us online, thank you for being here with us as well. -[377.88 --> 379.70] For those of you who don't know, my name is Chris. -[379.90 --> 381.52] I am one of the pastors here, -[381.52 --> 391.56] and it's our privilege to lead our Ascension Day worship here and now. -[392.50 --> 394.00] I'm going to invite you to stand, -[394.52 --> 397.50] and we will begin with a greeting from God, -[397.62 --> 400.48] and we'll move into a call to worship together. -[401.04 --> 403.36] In your hearts, hear this from the Lord. -[405.36 --> 409.78] Grace, mercy, and peace to you. -[409.78 --> 411.52] From God, our Father. -[412.18 --> 414.68] From the King, Jesus Christ. -[415.40 --> 418.16] Through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[419.44 --> 419.80] Amen. -[420.42 --> 421.92] Let's worship God in song tonight. -[421.92 --> 421.98] Amen. -[439.78 --> 439.84] Order and trucs to you. -[449.86 --> 452.74] 자 dinner with many crowds. -[452.78 --> 459.44] Thank you. -[459.44 --> 460.44] music -[460.44 --> 463.44] taught its own -[463.44 --> 465.26] Awake -[465.26 --> 467.44] my soul and sing -[468.42 --> 470.22] of him -[470.22 --> 471.30] who died -[471.30 --> 473.22] for thee -[473.22 --> 475.38] And hail -[475.38 --> 476.84] him as thy -[476.84 --> 478.40] matchless king -[478.40 --> 481.44] through all eternity -[481.88 --> 485.62] Crown him -[485.62 --> 487.26] the Lord of -[487.26 --> 488.82] life -[488.82 --> 491.16] who triumphed -[491.16 --> 493.54] o'er the grave -[493.54 --> 495.40] Who rose -[495.40 --> 496.74] victorious -[496.74 --> 498.98] in the strife -[498.98 --> 501.12] o'er those he -[501.12 --> 503.68] came to save -[503.68 --> 505.32] His glories -[506.14 --> 507.44] now we -[507.44 --> 508.78] sing -[508.78 --> 511.24] Who died and -[511.24 --> 513.32] reigns on high -[513.80 --> 515.32] Who died -[515.92 --> 517.32] eternal life -[517.32 --> 518.98] to bring -[518.98 --> 520.48] and lives -[520.48 --> 521.78] that death -[521.78 --> 522.90] may die -[522.90 --> 526.52] Crown him -[526.52 --> 529.62] the Lord of love -[529.62 --> 532.56] behold his hands -[532.56 --> 533.60] and sigh -[533.60 --> 536.26] Rich wounds -[536.26 --> 538.16] yet visible -[538.16 --> 539.80] above -[539.80 --> 541.48] in beauty -[541.48 --> 542.66] glorified -[542.66 --> 544.00] glorified -[544.00 --> 547.00] No angels -[547.00 --> 548.66] in the sky -[548.66 --> 551.66] can fully -[551.66 --> 554.70] bear that sight -[554.70 --> 556.82] But downward -[556.82 --> 558.28] bend their -[558.28 --> 559.00] hungry -[559.00 --> 560.04] eyes -[560.04 --> 562.24] at mystery -[562.24 --> 563.82] so bright -[563.82 --> 566.98] crown him -[566.98 --> 567.60] crown him -[567.60 --> 570.70] the Lord of peace -[570.70 --> 572.48] his kingdom -[572.48 --> 575.62] his at hand -[575.62 --> 578.74] from pole to pole -[578.74 --> 580.98] let warfare cease -[580.98 --> 583.12] that Christ rule -[583.12 --> 585.66] every land -[585.66 --> 587.66] all hail -[587.66 --> 587.70] all hail -[587.70 --> 589.08] redeemer -[589.08 --> 590.86] hail -[590.86 --> 592.70] for you -[592.70 --> 593.90] have died -[593.90 --> 595.82] for me -[595.82 --> 598.04] your praise -[598.04 --> 599.42] shall never -[599.42 --> 600.42] never -[600.42 --> 601.40] fail -[601.40 --> 602.66] throughout -[602.66 --> 604.66] eternity -[604.66 --> 606.30] yea -[606.30 --> 634.40] He is exalted -[634.40 --> 636.80] The King is exalted -[636.80 --> 638.92] On high -[638.92 --> 641.76] I will praise Him -[641.76 --> 643.80] He is exalted -[643.80 --> 646.20] Forever exalted -[646.20 --> 652.84] And I will praise His name -[652.84 --> 660.54] He is the Lord -[660.54 --> 664.94] Forever His truth shall reign -[664.94 --> 670.16] Heaven and earth -[670.16 --> 675.22] Rejoice in His holy name -[675.22 --> 677.46] He is exalted -[677.46 --> 679.86] The King is exalted -[679.86 --> 681.86] On high -[681.86 --> 687.12] He is exalted -[687.12 --> 689.48] The King is exalted -[689.48 --> 691.40] On high -[691.40 --> 694.40] I will praise Him -[694.40 --> 696.66] He is exalted -[696.66 --> 699.06] Forever exalted -[699.06 --> 707.46] And I will praise His name -[707.46 --> 713.06] He is the Lord -[713.06 --> 717.82] Forever His truth shall reign -[717.82 --> 722.06] Heaven and earth -[722.06 --> 727.06] Rejoice in His holy name -[727.06 --> 729.46] He is exalted -[729.46 --> 730.16] He is exalted -[730.16 --> 732.66] The King is exalted -[732.66 --> 734.04] On high -[734.04 --> 739.96] He is exalted -[739.96 --> 742.64] The King is exalted -[742.64 --> 745.06] On high -[745.06 --> 749.04] We are called to worship -[749.04 --> 750.62] Through Psalm 99 -[750.62 --> 751.76] Verses 1-3 -[751.76 --> 754.84] The Lord reigns -[754.84 --> 757.30] Let the peoples tremble -[757.30 --> 759.44] He is enthroned -[759.44 --> 760.86] Between the cherubim -[760.86 --> 762.62] Let the earth quake -[762.62 --> 764.64] The Lord is great in Zion -[764.64 --> 766.16] He is exalted -[766.16 --> 767.82] Above all peoples -[767.82 --> 769.52] Let them praise -[769.52 --> 770.12] Your great -[770.12 --> 771.86] And awe-inspiring name -[771.86 --> 773.44] He is holy -[773.44 --> 777.62] ví alot -[777.62 --> 780.74] Figured -[780.74 --> 783.78] Först -[783.78 --> 789.36] to find -[789.36 --> 790.56] می -[790.56 --> 791.26] a way -[791.26 --> 795.22] in -[795.78 --> 797.94] nor -[797.94 --> 798.26] S -[798.26 --> 803.80] Worship his majesty -[803.80 --> 808.90] Unto Jesus -[808.90 --> 815.46] The all glory, honor, and praise -[815.46 --> 819.52] Majesty -[819.52 --> 825.40] Kingdom of authority -[825.40 --> 829.72] Flow from his throne -[829.72 --> 832.50] Unto his own -[832.50 --> 837.00] His anthem rings -[837.00 --> 843.00] So exalt, lift up the line -[843.00 --> 846.72] The name of Jesus -[846.72 --> 853.58] Magnify, come glorify -[853.58 --> 857.90] Christ Jesus the King -[857.90 --> 862.36] Majesty -[862.36 --> 867.58] Worship his majesty -[867.58 --> 872.38] Jesus who died -[872.38 --> 875.08] Now glorified -[875.08 --> 878.96] King of all kings -[878.96 --> 883.28] Majesty -[883.28 --> 889.74] Worship his majesty -[889.74 --> 894.70] On to Jesus -[894.70 --> 899.74] The all glory, honor, and praise -[899.74 --> 905.06] Majesty -[905.06 --> 910.52] Kingdom of authority -[910.52 --> 915.52] Float from his throne -[915.52 --> 918.06] Until his own -[918.06 --> 921.52] His anthem rings -[921.52 --> 928.84] So exalt, lift up on high -[928.84 --> 932.84] The name of Jesus -[932.84 --> 932.90] So exalt, lift up on high -[932.90 --> 934.30] The name of Jesus -[934.30 --> 938.84] Magnify, come glorify -[938.84 --> 943.16] Christ Jesus the King -[943.16 --> 944.16] Christ Jesus the King -[944.16 --> 948.62] Majesty -[948.62 --> 953.84] Worship his majesty -[953.84 --> 958.16] Jesus who died -[958.16 --> 961.16] Now glorified -[961.16 --> 964.62] King of all kings -[964.62 --> 975.08] In John 14 -[975.08 --> 976.40] Jesus says -[976.40 --> 978.64] Do not let your hearts -[978.64 --> 979.88] Be troubled -[979.88 --> 982.14] You believed in God -[982.14 --> 984.00] Believe also in me -[984.00 --> 985.78] My father's house -[985.78 --> 987.34] Has many rooms -[987.34 --> 989.46] If that were not so -[989.46 --> 991.44] I would have told you -[991.44 --> 992.86] Or would I have told you -[992.86 --> 994.04] That I am going there -[994.04 --> 995.48] To prepare a place for you -[995.48 --> 997.30] And if I go -[997.30 --> 999.12] To prepare a place for you -[999.12 --> 1000.24] I will come back -[1000.24 --> 1001.18] And take you -[1001.18 --> 1002.04] To be with me -[1002.04 --> 1003.24] That you may be -[1003.24 --> 1005.10] Where I am also -[1005.10 --> 1007.68] You know the way -[1007.68 --> 1008.28] To the place -[1008.28 --> 1009.08] Where I am going -[1009.08 --> 1011.08] Thomas said to him -[1011.08 --> 1012.38] Lord we don't know -[1012.38 --> 1013.10] Where you're going -[1013.10 --> 1014.68] So how can we know the way -[1014.68 --> 1018.06] In a world -[1018.06 --> 1019.42] Where it can be -[1019.42 --> 1020.50] So hard -[1020.50 --> 1022.58] To see Jesus -[1022.58 --> 1024.66] And so hard -[1024.66 --> 1025.30] To believe -[1025.30 --> 1026.48] That he is -[1026.48 --> 1027.64] Still at work -[1027.64 --> 1029.24] We can be like -[1029.24 --> 1029.92] The disciples -[1029.92 --> 1031.72] Like Thomas -[1031.72 --> 1032.90] Who questioned -[1032.90 --> 1034.26] And doubted -[1034.26 --> 1037.10] But let's remember -[1037.10 --> 1038.68] The end of that chapter -[1038.68 --> 1040.36] Where Jesus -[1040.36 --> 1041.64] Says to them -[1041.64 --> 1044.18] All this I have spoken -[1044.18 --> 1045.44] While still with you -[1045.44 --> 1047.06] But the advocate -[1047.06 --> 1048.12] The Holy Spirit -[1048.12 --> 1048.82] Whom the Father -[1048.82 --> 1050.16] Will send in my name -[1050.16 --> 1051.00] Will teach you -[1051.00 --> 1052.04] All things -[1052.04 --> 1053.14] And will remind you -[1053.14 --> 1054.00] Of everything -[1054.00 --> 1055.20] I have said to you -[1055.20 --> 1058.08] Peace I leave with you -[1058.08 --> 1060.66] My peace I give you -[1060.66 --> 1061.74] I do not give -[1061.74 --> 1062.88] As the world gives -[1062.88 --> 1064.30] Do not let your hearts -[1064.30 --> 1064.88] Be troubled -[1064.88 --> 1067.00] And do not be afraid -[1067.00 --> 1069.84] You have heard me say -[1069.84 --> 1070.98] I am going away -[1070.98 --> 1072.20] And coming back to you -[1072.20 --> 1073.74] If you loved me -[1073.74 --> 1074.72] You would be glad -[1074.72 --> 1076.08] That I am going to the Father -[1076.08 --> 1076.74] For the Father -[1076.74 --> 1078.00] Is greater than I -[1078.00 --> 1080.24] And I have told you -[1080.24 --> 1081.90] Now before it happens -[1081.90 --> 1084.38] So that when it does happen -[1084.38 --> 1086.54] You will believe -[1086.54 --> 1089.60] Prayer of faith -[1089.60 --> 1091.66] On ascension day -[1091.66 --> 1093.48] And the prayer of faith -[1093.48 --> 1094.24] Every day -[1094.24 --> 1095.92] Says I believe -[1095.92 --> 1098.22] Help my unbelief -[1098.22 --> 1100.62] The prayer of faith -[1100.62 --> 1101.76] Says again -[1101.76 --> 1102.98] With Thomas -[1102.98 --> 1104.04] My Lord -[1104.04 --> 1106.02] And my God -[1106.02 --> 1132.54] Create in me -[1132.54 --> 1136.04] A clean heart -[1136.04 --> 1138.12] Oh God -[1138.12 --> 1142.28] And renew a right spirit -[1142.28 --> 1145.12] Within me -[1145.12 --> 1149.70] Create in me -[1149.70 --> 1153.12] A clean heart -[1153.12 --> 1155.32] Oh God -[1155.32 --> 1159.38] And renew a right spirit -[1159.38 --> 1161.38] Within me -[1161.38 --> 1167.38] Cast me not away -[1167.38 --> 1170.38] From thy presence -[1170.38 --> 1172.38] Oh Lord -[1172.38 --> 1177.40] Take not thine Holy Spirit -[1177.40 --> 1179.38] From me -[1179.38 --> 1185.38] Restore unto me -[1185.38 --> 1189.38] The joy of thy salvation -[1189.38 --> 1193.38] And renew a right spirit -[1193.90 --> 1196.38] Within me -[1196.38 --> 1198.38] Let's pray -[1198.38 --> 1200.56] Holy Lord -[1200.56 --> 1203.36] We live in a world -[1203.36 --> 1204.38] Where seeing -[1204.38 --> 1206.36] Seems to be believing -[1206.36 --> 1208.58] And so many times -[1208.58 --> 1209.82] What we see is altered -[1209.82 --> 1211.50] In a way to make us think -[1211.50 --> 1212.30] Something is true -[1212.30 --> 1212.92] When it's not -[1212.92 --> 1216.16] It gets to the point -[1216.16 --> 1217.98] Where we -[1217.98 --> 1218.76] If we have not -[1218.76 --> 1219.88] Seen something ourselves -[1219.88 --> 1221.48] We have doubts -[1221.48 --> 1222.32] Whether they happen -[1222.32 --> 1224.82] One truth -[1224.82 --> 1226.62] Has stood the test -[1226.62 --> 1227.08] Of time -[1227.08 --> 1228.34] Your word -[1228.34 --> 1229.70] Your revelation -[1229.70 --> 1231.80] Through the centuries -[1231.80 --> 1232.38] Of faith -[1232.38 --> 1233.70] Of those before us -[1233.70 --> 1235.52] They have told us -[1235.52 --> 1236.60] Of our wondrous creator -[1236.60 --> 1237.78] And redeeming savior -[1237.78 --> 1239.54] Sanctifying spirit -[1239.54 --> 1241.16] We fail -[1241.16 --> 1241.80] And we falter -[1241.80 --> 1243.20] But we know -[1243.20 --> 1243.94] That we have hope -[1243.94 --> 1244.24] In you -[1244.24 --> 1246.52] And even now -[1246.52 --> 1248.06] Though we don't see it -[1248.06 --> 1249.46] Jesus -[1249.46 --> 1250.62] The ascended savior -[1250.62 --> 1252.18] Stands before your throne -[1252.18 --> 1254.18] Interceding for us -[1254.18 --> 1255.86] Facing the accuser -[1255.86 --> 1257.98] We are thankful -[1257.98 --> 1258.48] To know -[1258.48 --> 1259.28] That no matter -[1259.28 --> 1260.04] Our shortcomings -[1260.04 --> 1261.56] We are loved -[1261.56 --> 1263.20] And we are forgiven -[1263.20 --> 1265.14] And with that faith -[1265.14 --> 1265.82] And that knowledge -[1265.82 --> 1267.40] We strive to change ourselves -[1267.40 --> 1268.80] To live -[1268.80 --> 1270.14] To further your kingdom -[1270.14 --> 1271.26] Amen -[1271.26 --> 1282.36] Create in me -[1282.36 --> 1285.92] A clean heart -[1285.92 --> 1287.70] Oh God -[1287.70 --> 1292.24] And renew a right spirit -[1292.24 --> 1294.70] Within me -[1294.70 --> 1309.46] And renew a right spirit -[1309.46 --> 1312.52] Within me -[1312.52 --> 1317.80] Cast me not away -[1317.80 --> 1320.32] From thy presence -[1320.32 --> 1322.76] O Lord -[1322.76 --> 1327.52] And take not thy holy spirit -[1327.52 --> 1328.04] From me -[1328.04 --> 1334.98] Restore unto me -[1334.98 --> 1339.80] The joy of thy salvation -[1339.80 --> 1344.30] And renew a right spirit -[1344.30 --> 1346.98] Within me -[1346.98 --> 1350.90] We are going to respond -[1350.90 --> 1351.76] With a new song -[1351.76 --> 1352.88] Called Behold the Lamb -[1352.88 --> 1354.38] If you know it already -[1354.38 --> 1354.72] Great -[1354.72 --> 1355.94] You can sing along -[1355.94 --> 1357.80] But also learn it -[1357.80 --> 1358.82] Along with us -[1358.82 --> 1359.28] As we sing -[1359.28 --> 1382.06] And let's eve -[1382.06 --> 1382.38] Praise His whole Commerce -[1382.38 --> 1384.34] PoO TAN -[1384.34 --> 1385.80] Join us Woah if we know itишь up in a way -[1385.80 --> 1402.84] there the great i am the crown of thorns upon his head the father's heart displayed for us -[1403.64 --> 1408.84] oh god we thank you for the cross -[1408.84 --> 1422.84] lifted up on calvary's hill we cursed your name and even still -[1422.84 --> 1436.84] you bore our shame and paid the cost oh god we thank you for the cross -[1438.84 --> 1452.84] the story of redemption written on his hands jesus you will reign forever -[1452.84 --> 1463.84] is -[1463.84 --> 1473.62] In this hallelujah to your holy name, Jesus, you will reign forevermore. -[1473.62 --> 1478.34] The victory is yours. -[1478.34 --> 1493.08] Father, His sacrifice for every sin, our Savior died. -[1493.08 --> 1499.24] The Lord of our reign can't be contained. -[1500.36 --> 1505.02] Our God has risen from the grave. -[1505.02 --> 1512.80] Oh, our God has risen from the grave. -[1512.80 --> 1522.30] Behold the Lamb, the story of redemption written on His hands. -[1522.98 --> 1526.80] Jesus, you will reign forevermore. -[1527.32 --> 1530.80] The victory is yours. -[1530.80 --> 1534.88] We sing your praise. -[1535.50 --> 1540.82] Endless hallelujahs to your holy name. -[1541.58 --> 1544.80] Jesus, you will reign forevermore. -[1545.86 --> 1548.80] The victory is yours. -[1548.80 --> 1564.62] When the age of death is done, we'll see your face bright as the sun. -[1564.62 --> 1571.58] We'll bow before the King of kings. -[1571.58 --> 1577.40] Oh, God, forever we will see. -[1577.40 --> 1590.96] Behold the Lamb, the story of redemption written on His hands. -[1590.96 --> 1594.96] Jesus, you will reign forevermore. -[1594.96 --> 1599.74] The victory is yours. -[1599.74 --> 1602.74] We sing your praise. -[1602.74 --> 1603.26] We sing your praise. -[1603.26 --> 1609.04] Endless hallelujahs to your holy name. -[1609.04 --> 1613.52] Jesus, you will reign forevermore. -[1613.52 --> 1616.76] The victory is yours. -[1616.76 --> 1619.66] You reign forevermore. -[1619.66 --> 1622.68] The victory is yours. -[1622.68 --> 1625.74] You reign forevermore. -[1625.74 --> 1630.12] The victory is yours. -[1641.44 --> 1644.94] Ephesians chapter 1, verses 18 to 23. -[1644.94 --> 1653.58] I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, -[1654.14 --> 1657.48] the riches of His glorious inheritance in His holy people, -[1658.08 --> 1661.56] and His incomparably great power for us who believe. -[1662.32 --> 1667.92] That power is the same as the mighty strength He exerted when He raised Christ from the dead -[1667.92 --> 1676.66] and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, -[1676.66 --> 1683.66] and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age, but also in the one to come. -[1683.66 --> 1691.50] And God placed all things under His feet and appointed Him to be head over everything for the church, -[1691.50 --> 1698.20] which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills everything in every way. -[1698.20 --> 1720.40] feel me -[1720.40 --> 1730.28] Before the throne of God above, I am a strong and perfect glee, -[1730.28 --> 1739.28] a great high priest whose name is the whoever lives and pleads for me. -[1740.22 --> 1749.28] My name is graven on his hands, my name is written on his heart. -[1749.28 --> 1758.52] I know that while in heaven he stands, no tongue can bid me, let's depart. -[1758.92 --> 1763.32] No tongue can bid me, let's depart. -[1766.14 --> 1775.26] When slaves intends me to despair, and tells me of the guilt within, -[1775.26 --> 1785.18] upward I look and see him there, who made an end of all my sin. -[1785.58 --> 1794.26] Because the sinless Savior died, my sinful soul is counted free. -[1794.26 --> 1804.58] For God the just is satisfied, to look on him and pardon me. -[1804.58 --> 1809.58] To look on him and pardon me. -[1811.58 --> 1821.70] Behold him there, the risen Lamb, my perfect spotless righteousness. -[1821.70 --> 1832.54] The great unchangeable I am, the King of glory and of grace. -[1832.54 --> 1842.72] One with himself I cannot die, my soul is purchased by his blood. -[1842.72 --> 1847.72] My life is hid with Christ on high. -[1847.72 --> 1848.72] My life is hid with Christ on high. -[1848.72 --> 1852.72] With Christ my Savior and my God. -[1852.72 --> 1857.72] With Christ my Savior and my God. -[1857.72 --> 1876.72] With Christ my Savior and my God. -[1876.72 --> 1889.72] With Christ my Savior and my God. -[1889.72 --> 1891.72] Go ahead and have a seat. -[1891.72 --> 1905.72] It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. -[1905.72 --> 1910.26] But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, -[1910.38 --> 1915.44] and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, -[1915.90 --> 1917.44] and to the ends of the earth. -[1917.44 --> 1924.44] After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, -[1924.44 --> 1927.44] and a cloud hid him from their sight. -[1930.44 --> 1932.44] A hiding cloud. -[1932.44 --> 1936.44] I still can't see him. -[1936.44 --> 1940.44] Why would he leave when the world still needs him? -[1940.44 --> 1945.44] Up he rose, his saints to raise, sent to the world to proclaim his praise, -[1945.44 --> 1948.44] but all the world's a stage in the shape of a maze, -[1948.44 --> 1952.44] and I'm trapped in a cage, stuck on an empty phrase. -[1952.44 --> 1958.44] Why would he leave when the world still needs him? -[1958.44 --> 1962.44] Why would he leave when I still need him? -[1962.44 --> 1968.44] When they saw him, they worshiped him. -[1968.44 --> 1971.44] But some doubted. -[1971.44 --> 1976.44] Even the disciples doubted, and so I'm with them. -[1976.44 --> 1980.44] In this world you will have trouble, but all I see is mayhem. -[1980.44 --> 1984.44] You question me, I question God. -[1984.44 --> 1987.44] I can be faithless and feel like a fraud, -[1987.44 --> 1990.44] looking up to the sky, wanting to see him. -[1990.44 --> 1992.44] There's something I must know. -[1992.44 --> 1993.44] Hands held high, I cry. -[1993.44 --> 1998.44] How long, O Lord, where did you go? -[1998.44 --> 2005.44] They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going. -[2007.44 --> 2011.44] Looking intently up into the sky, feelings in tension. -[2011.44 --> 2014.44] I want to know why, but I fear what he'll mention. -[2014.44 --> 2018.44] I'm content to look up so as to not contend with what's below. -[2018.44 --> 2024.44] The surface is shaking, but this, this is all I know. -[2024.44 --> 2031.44] Lord, are you at this time going to restore your creation? -[2031.44 --> 2035.44] I'm left in these depths crying for salvation. -[2035.44 --> 2038.44] Why did you leave and where did you go? -[2038.44 --> 2041.44] Why did you leave and where did you go? -[2041.44 --> 2043.44] Why did you leave? -[2043.44 --> 2047.44] And where did you go? -[2047.44 --> 2064.44] I have told you now, -[2064.44 --> 2068.44] before it happens, -[2068.44 --> 2073.44] so that when it happens, you will believe. -[2073.44 --> 2078.44] I have gone so that you may come. -[2078.44 --> 2081.44] I have come so that you may go. -[2081.44 --> 2087.44] Never, not once did I not know where you are and where you will go. -[2087.44 --> 2089.44] Here I sit at the right hand of the Father, -[2089.44 --> 2093.44] my righteous hand to carry you farther than you could ever go. -[2093.44 --> 2094.44] On your own. -[2094.44 --> 2098.44] I can never leave you alone. -[2098.44 --> 2103.44] Always and forever, this you will learn. -[2103.44 --> 2107.44] Exchanged a crown of thorns for the crown of a sovereign. -[2107.44 --> 2112.44] King of kings above all things, right to reign and reigning right. -[2112.44 --> 2116.44] Just us now through your dark night. -[2116.44 --> 2119.44] My spirit I give like I gave my life, -[2119.44 --> 2121.44] poured out for the many, risen to reign. -[2121.44 --> 2124.44] The lion of Judah and the lamb who was slain. -[2124.44 --> 2129.44] My body in heaven as a promise that you will be my face before the throne -[2129.44 --> 2133.44] so that your plea can be constant intercessor. -[2133.44 --> 2137.44] I hear your shouting. -[2137.44 --> 2143.44] And I whisper my affections through your doubting. -[2143.44 --> 2149.44] As you have seen me go, I will return. -[2149.44 --> 2155.44] All tears will end and you will learn what great love the Father has lavished on you, -[2155.44 --> 2162.44] known in this moment precisely because I withdrew. -[2162.44 --> 2171.44] But never, not once, did I ever leave you. -[2171.44 --> 2176.44] All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. -[2176.44 --> 2179.44] Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, -[2179.44 --> 2181.44] baptizing them in the name of the Father, -[2181.44 --> 2185.44] and the name of the Son, and the name of the Holy Spirit, -[2185.44 --> 2190.44] and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. -[2190.44 --> 2198.44] And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age. -[2206.44 --> 2228.44] I am with you always, to the very end of the earth. -[2228.44 --> 2238.44] The salvation belongs to our God, who sits upon the throne. -[2240.92 --> 2255.44] And unto the Lamb, praise and glory, wisdom and grace, honor and power and strength. -[2255.44 --> 2262.82] Be to our God forever and ever. -[2262.82 --> 2268.72] Be to our God forever and ever. -[2268.96 --> 2275.78] Be to our God forever and ever. Amen. -[2275.78 --> 2291.70] And we the redeemed shall be strong in purpose and unity. -[2291.70 --> 2309.70] Declaring the Lamb, praise and glory, wisdom and grace, honor and power and strength. -[2309.70 --> 2316.28] Be to our God forever and ever. -[2317.08 --> 2322.36] Be to our God forever and ever. -[2322.76 --> 2329.40] Be to our God forever and ever. Amen. -[2329.40 --> 2343.78] Be to our God forever and ever. -[2343.78 --> 2346.16] Forever and ever. -[2346.16 --> 2354.16] Be to our God forever and ever. Amen. -[2358.16 --> 2364.66] Be to our God forever and ever. -[2364.66 --> 2377.92] Be to our God forever and ever. Amen. -[2377.92 --> 2387.94] From Acts chapter 1. -[2389.04 --> 2391.50] They gathered around him and asked him, -[2392.04 --> 2396.00] Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel? -[2396.50 --> 2397.70] He said to them, -[2397.70 --> 2403.40] It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. -[2404.00 --> 2407.94] But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you. -[2408.34 --> 2414.86] And you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the ends of the earth. -[2415.94 --> 2423.48] And after he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes and a cloud hid him from their sight. -[2423.48 --> 2432.18] They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going when suddenly two men dressed in white stood before them. -[2433.00 --> 2434.48] Men of Galilee, they said, -[2434.68 --> 2437.56] Why do you stand here looking up into the sky? -[2438.30 --> 2446.68] This same Jesus who has been taken from you into heaven will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven. -[2452.28 --> 2453.32] Will you pray with me? -[2453.48 --> 2463.30] Lord our God, we come before you in prayer on this Ascension Day. -[2464.88 --> 2471.20] An act of faith, in part made possible by the Ascension. -[2471.20 --> 2485.60] We can pray with confidence because we know that your spirit takes these words and carries them up to your throne and that Jesus himself, our constant intercessor, -[2486.60 --> 2489.80] our heavenly mediator, -[2491.10 --> 2493.22] hears them, perfects them, -[2494.78 --> 2496.08] speaks them to your ear. -[2496.08 --> 2502.08] And by the full work of the triune God in prayer, -[2502.08 --> 2507.62] you use the prayer of your saints to act in this world. -[2507.62 --> 2517.26] And so, Lord God, we pray with confidence even when we doubt. -[2517.26 --> 2523.66] We pray with boldness even when we are afraid. -[2525.26 --> 2533.74] We pray with urgency and conviction even when we cannot see you. -[2533.74 --> 2544.28] Because we know that our prayer and your hearing and acting in response is not based on us, -[2544.56 --> 2549.24] but based on Jesus Christ, our ascended King. -[2549.24 --> 2557.50] And so, in the confidence of our King, we praise your name, Lord Jesus. -[2558.24 --> 2564.50] In the confidence of our King, we boast in the gospel of Jesus Christ. -[2564.64 --> 2567.92] In the confidence of our King, we pray, -[2567.92 --> 2570.16] come quickly, come quickly, Lord Jesus, -[2571.32 --> 2580.30] and establish your kingdom in its fullest scope and revelation on this earth in the restoration of all things. -[2584.92 --> 2588.14] And even as we wait for that day, Lord Jesus, -[2588.14 --> 2592.18] remind us again, -[2593.26 --> 2595.40] help us to know -[2595.40 --> 2600.10] that as you have ascended to the right hand of the Father, -[2600.24 --> 2604.72] you and the Father have sent your Spirit to us. -[2605.78 --> 2611.00] And that your very presence is now in us and with us, -[2611.20 --> 2612.44] alongside of us, -[2612.84 --> 2614.82] upholding us and sustaining us -[2614.82 --> 2620.06] and carrying us forward into the plans that you have for us. -[2621.70 --> 2626.56] Give us that hope afresh tonight, -[2626.74 --> 2628.98] because you are on the throne. -[2629.18 --> 2632.72] Give us that hope again today, -[2632.72 --> 2638.08] because we have encountered your grace here, -[2638.86 --> 2641.04] in worship and in prayer. -[2641.04 --> 2644.98] And as we go, Lord Jesus, -[2645.74 --> 2646.52] may we go -[2646.52 --> 2648.44] with your name -[2648.44 --> 2650.68] written on our hearts, -[2650.90 --> 2651.80] with your name -[2651.80 --> 2654.24] inscribed on our foreheads, -[2654.32 --> 2655.02] may we go -[2655.02 --> 2656.20] as witnesses -[2656.20 --> 2657.84] of the gospel -[2657.84 --> 2660.02] into Jerusalem -[2660.02 --> 2661.94] and to Judea, -[2662.48 --> 2663.14] to Samaria, -[2663.68 --> 2665.28] and to all the nations, -[2666.16 --> 2667.52] including our neighborhoods -[2667.52 --> 2668.72] in Murrayville -[2668.72 --> 2669.96] and Langley, -[2670.66 --> 2671.20] Aldergrove -[2671.20 --> 2672.24] or Abbotsford, -[2673.60 --> 2673.98] Surrey, -[2675.02 --> 2676.46] wherever we come from, -[2676.52 --> 2677.30] in Walnut Grove -[2677.30 --> 2678.52] or Maple Ridge, -[2678.60 --> 2679.52] wherever we come from -[2679.52 --> 2681.48] in the lower mainland, -[2681.66 --> 2682.34] wherever we come from -[2682.34 --> 2682.74] in BC -[2682.74 --> 2683.44] or Canada -[2683.44 --> 2684.14] and beyond, -[2684.26 --> 2685.04] may we go -[2685.04 --> 2686.50] as witnesses -[2686.50 --> 2688.76] of the gospel. -[2688.76 --> 2691.26] and may we go -[2691.26 --> 2691.82] knowing -[2691.82 --> 2692.70] that you -[2692.70 --> 2693.56] go -[2693.56 --> 2694.92] with us. -[2696.24 --> 2697.34] Receive the blessing -[2697.34 --> 2699.02] of our God. -[2701.22 --> 2702.68] The Lord bless you -[2702.68 --> 2704.64] and keep you. -[2705.74 --> 2707.06] The Lord make his face -[2707.06 --> 2707.84] to shine upon you -[2707.84 --> 2708.68] and be gracious -[2708.68 --> 2709.76] to you. -[2710.32 --> 2711.88] The Lord turn his face -[2711.88 --> 2712.58] toward you -[2712.58 --> 2713.96] and give you -[2713.96 --> 2714.96] his -[2714.96 --> 2716.28] peace. -[2716.28 --> 2718.58] Amen. -[2718.76 --> 2737.22] In Christ alone -[2737.22 --> 2740.86] my hope is found. -[2740.86 --> 2742.56] He is my light, -[2742.68 --> 2744.26] my strength, -[2744.38 --> 2745.60] my soul. -[2746.08 --> 2748.22] This cornerstone -[2748.22 --> 2749.92] is solid, -[2749.92 --> 2751.22] found -[2751.22 --> 2753.36] under the fiercest -[2753.36 --> 2755.96] drought and storm. -[2756.48 --> 2758.98] What heights of love, -[2759.08 --> 2761.06] what depths of peace, -[2761.46 --> 2763.68] when fears are still, -[2764.14 --> 2766.22] when strivings cease, -[2766.62 --> 2767.92] my comfort, -[2768.08 --> 2771.66] my all in all, -[2771.66 --> 2775.10] here in the love of Christ -[2775.10 --> 2776.48] I stand. -[2776.48 --> 2789.02] in Christ alone -[2789.02 --> 2792.06] who took on flesh, -[2792.06 --> 2793.80] fullness of God -[2793.80 --> 2796.74] in helpless gain, -[2796.74 --> 2799.70] this gift of love -[2799.70 --> 2801.12] and righteousness, -[2801.12 --> 2804.08] scorned by the ones -[2804.08 --> 2806.12] he came to save. -[2806.12 --> 2810.06] till on that cross -[2810.06 --> 2812.18] as Jesus died, -[2812.18 --> 2815.12] the wrath of God -[2815.12 --> 2816.66] was satisfied, -[2817.66 --> 2819.94] for every sin -[2819.94 --> 2822.86] on him was laid, -[2823.32 --> 2824.66] here in the death -[2824.66 --> 2827.76] of Christ I live. -[2827.76 --> 2840.30] there in the ground -[2840.30 --> 2841.14] in the ground -[2841.14 --> 2843.30] his body lay, -[2843.30 --> 2845.92] light of the world -[2845.92 --> 2849.30] by darkness slain, -[2849.30 --> 2851.30] then bursting forth -[2851.30 --> 2852.30] in the ground -[2852.30 --> 2852.84] and the glory -[2852.84 --> 2855.16] in the glorious day. -[2855.16 --> 2856.92] Off from the grave -[2856.92 --> 2859.94] he rose again, -[2859.94 --> 2863.10] and as he stands -[2863.10 --> 2864.54] in victory, -[2865.68 --> 2868.22] sin's curse has lost -[2868.22 --> 2870.42] his grip on me, -[2870.76 --> 2873.16] for I am his, -[2873.44 --> 2876.10] and he is mine, -[2876.56 --> 2877.98] bought with the precious -[2877.98 --> 2881.82] blood of Christ. -[2881.82 --> 2894.30] No guilt in life, -[2894.36 --> 2896.94] no fear in death, -[2896.94 --> 2898.70] this is the power -[2898.70 --> 2901.70] of Christ in me. -[2901.70 --> 2904.34] from life's first cry -[2904.34 --> 2907.28] to final breath, -[2907.28 --> 2909.04] Jesus commands -[2909.04 --> 2911.36] my destiny. -[2912.68 --> 2915.24] No power on heaven, -[2915.32 --> 2917.40] no scheme of man -[2917.40 --> 2920.82] can ever flood me -[2920.82 --> 2922.64] from his hand -[2922.64 --> 2925.46] till he returns -[2925.46 --> 2928.36] or calls me home -[2928.36 --> 2930.10] here in the power -[2930.10 --> 2931.10] of Christ -[2931.10 --> 2933.10] I'll stand. -[2933.10 --> 2936.10] No power of hell, -[2936.10 --> 2938.76] no scheme of man -[2938.76 --> 2942.54] can ever pluck me -[2942.54 --> 2944.78] from his hand -[2944.78 --> 2947.94] till he returns -[2947.94 --> 2951.52] or calls me home -[2951.52 --> 2954.26] here in the power -[2954.26 --> 2956.48] of Christ -[2956.48 --> 2959.26] I'll stand. -[2959.34 --> 2979.10] verse 2 -[2979.10 --> 3009.08] Thank you. -[3009.10 --> 3039.08] Thank you. -[3039.10 --> 3069.08] Thank you. -[3069.10 --> 3099.08] Thank you. diff --git a/Ascension Day, May 9, 2024_summary.txt b/Ascension Day, May 9, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index e6d1e32dd45f203f8ea3490458bcb45e00d341b6..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Ascension Day, May 9, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,78 +0,0 @@ -• Discussion about being alone and going back to a place -• Mention of people's presence everywhere -• Reference to reading in a book and thanking someone -• Discussion about memory and something beautiful -• Comment about not believing something -• Talk about clouds and birds -• Discussion about relationships and being happy -• Rehearsal of the story of Ascension without amplification or screens -• The story of Jesus' Ascension as recorded in Acts -• The apostolic benediction and its components (grace, peace, blessing from God and Christ) -• Inviting congregants to worship with a greeting and response -• Repeated declarations of praise and adoration to God through Alleluia chants -• A prayer for the presence of God's Spirit in their lives and drawing closer to Jesus Christ -• Singing hymns that declare the power and majesty of Jesus Christ as King and Lord -• Worship and praise to Jesus Christ as King of Kings -• Repentance for putting other things ahead of God -• Asking for forgiveness and humility -• Desire to be like Jesus in heart and spirit -• Gratitude and thanksgiving to God -• Expression of love and adoration through song and worship -• Recognition that human words fall short in expressing gratitude -• Acknowledgment of God's love and humility -• Invitation to come before God with humble hearts and offer praise -• The speaker prays for a deeper connection with Jesus and asks Him to speak directly to their hearts. -• The church has been rehearsing the story of Jesus through various services, including Palm Sunday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday. -• Ascension Day is not as well-attended or popular as other Christian holidays like Easter or Christmas. -• The Reformed Church places great importance on Ascension Day, considering it to be a day of equal or greater significance than Easter. -• A theologian named Herman Bavinck discussed the theme of Jesus' humiliation and exaltation in his work. -• John Calvin emphasized the importance of the ascension for our Christian faith and life together, citing three reasons: - • The constant intercession and advocacy of Jesus in the presence of God - • The turning away of God's wrath due to Jesus' standing before the Father - • The opening up of access to the heavenly kingdom -• The significance of Jesus' ascension and its benefits for believers -• Calvin's interpretation of Ephesians 4:8-10, specifically "he led captivity captive" -• The relationship between Christ's ascension and the Holy Spirit's presence on earth -• The Heidelberg Catechism's teaching on the benefits of Christ's ascension -• Augustine's views on the connection between Christ's ascension and his presence with believers through the Spirit -• Jesus' own statement that his ascension is necessary for the believer's good -• The importance of establishing roots and purpose in life, especially in uncertain times -• The significance of the church's history and tradition as a source of grounding and identity -• The connection between the incarnation (Christmas) and the church's mission to proclaim God's presence and promise -• Jesus' role as the obedient one, perfectly righteous one, and fulfilling of the law -• The meaning of Jesus' death on the cross: payment for human failings and rebellion -• The significance of Jesus' resurrection: victory over death and God's triumph -• The ascension of Jesus: declaration of his kingship and authority -• The importance of understanding and following God's plan -• Jesus' temptation by Satan in Matthew 4, specifically the third temptation -• A personal experience visiting a mountain lookout and its connection to Jesus' experience -• The concept that each person has their own path to follow and achieve their goals -• Hebrews 1 and the role of Jesus as the radiance of God's glory -• The ascension of Jesus is a necessary part of his journey to heaven and authority -• Jesus' road to the throne above all thrones had to go through the cross -• Kingship belongs to Jesus, but the means of his being exalted as king cannot be cut short or shortcut -• The Ascension of Jesus is a deep hope for believers, a necessary gospel reality available to them -• The promise of God to believers is a future reward, including heaven and a crown of glory -• Various Bible references support this promise, including 1 Peter and Revelation -• The ascension of Jesus is a guarantee of this promised future reality -• To achieve this future, one must go through the cross and face opposition and persecution as a disciple of Jesus -• Self-denial and taking up one's cross daily are necessary for following Jesus -• The way to glory with Jesus is through daily taking up your cross and following him. -• Living a cruciform life means dying to self and rising with Jesus Christ every day. -• The two greatest temptations are comfort and power, but true comfort comes from Jesus' presence in weakness, not from worldly pursuits. -• True power is found in Jesus, who says that the greatest must become the least. -• Following Jesus as King means living a life that looks different from everyone else's. -• Rehearsing the story of Jesus helps us see him as our crown of glory and enables us to press towards him. -• Prayer for the Holy Spirit to move in believers -• Request for newness of life and power to face death -• Call to go forth nourished and sustained in faith -• Reference to taking up one's cross and following Jesus -• Promise of reigning with Jesus if enduring with Him -• Invocation to draw near to Christ's victor's crown -• Reflection on the love and sacrifice of Jesus -• Reading of a hymn extolling God's love and redemption -• Scripture reading from Acts 1:9-11, describing Jesus' ascension -• Benediction asking for God's presence and protection -• Praise to the King -• References to the "only white child" -• Repeated invocations of glory and honor for the King \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Ascension Day, May 9, 2024_transcript.txt b/Ascension Day, May 9, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index bd96d18b59d6fd02432b14b7d35e0d6c92d2dee4..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Ascension Day, May 9, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1202 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 8.60] In my opinion, the day of the day, the sun will be me, and I'm just going to be me. -[8.60 --> 14.20] You know what, then I would suggest you go back there. I will never go back. -[14.80 --> 15.86] You said it for a while. -[15.86 --> 17.60] I'm sure that I'm going to go back. -[19.74 --> 22.54] The truth you get, some people are going to be everywhere. -[22.54 --> 25.52] You're sucking the bass every month I read in the book. -[25.52 --> 26.76] It's right. You're not a friend. -[26.92 --> 27.66] It's a total thing. -[27.66 --> 28.80] I'm just paying thanks for everything. -[28.80 --> 30.80] In my opinion, the other person wat -[30.80 --> 32.12] executive secretary is on top of the board. -[32.12 --> 33.96] So if I let the horn out, we'll end up here. -[33.96 --> 34.66] I need a memory. -[34.66 --> 35.02] Imay. -[35.02 --> 36.72] To it's a beautiful north and north began. -[36.72 --> 38.10] No pictures of their heads. -[38.10 --> 40.10] It broke me so I don't believe it. -[40.10 --> 41.02] It's a beautiful north. -[41.02 --> 43.22] To it… -[48.58 --> 49.80] Thank you and everyone. -[49.80 --> 52.46] When you're in Example, -[52.46 --> 55.18] if Sal 준비's dealing with the best. -[55.18 --> 56.58] 복 years to help. -[56.58 --> 58.58] Is that what it looks like? -[58.58 --> 60.58] It's a bird cloud. -[60.58 --> 62.58] Yeah, you can see it. -[62.58 --> 64.58] Oh, there's one hiding. -[64.58 --> 66.58] Oh, yeah, there's one hiding. -[66.58 --> 68.58] There's one hiding in the back. -[68.58 --> 70.58] You can move it. -[70.58 --> 72.58] There's a little E-tease. -[72.58 --> 74.58] You're glowing. -[74.58 --> 76.58] I mean, I'm going to show you how to side it. -[76.58 --> 78.58] That's your girlfriend. -[78.58 --> 80.58] I don't know. -[80.58 --> 82.58] It's others. -[82.58 --> 84.58] I don't know if you're close. -[84.58 --> 86.58] I'm very happy. -[86.58 --> 88.58] Very good. -[88.58 --> 90.58] Everyone with you. -[90.58 --> 92.58] Oh, boy. -[92.58 --> 94.58] Oh, boy. -[94.58 --> 96.58] Oh, well. -[96.58 --> 98.58] There it is. -[98.58 --> 100.58] Yeah. -[100.58 --> 102.58] All right, then. -[102.58 --> 104.58] Good. -[104.58 --> 106.58] Okay. -[106.58 --> 108.58] Good. -[108.58 --> 110.58] And I'd like to be down. -[110.58 --> 112.58] You can move that. -[112.58 --> 114.58] Don't worry. -[114.58 --> 116.58] Thanks, sir. -[116.58 --> 118.58] It's ours. -[118.58 --> 120.58] . -[120.58 --> 122.58] They used it. -[122.58 --> 124.58] . -[124.58 --> 126.58] Yeah, I'm just getting . -[126.58 --> 156.56] Thank you. -[156.58 --> 186.56] Thank you. -[186.58 --> 216.56] Thank you. -[216.58 --> 218.58] Thank you. -[246.58 --> 248.58] Thank you. -[276.58 --> 278.58] Thank you. -[306.58 --> 308.58] Thank you. -[336.58 --> 338.58] Thank you. -[366.58 --> 368.58] Thank you. -[396.58 --> 398.58] Thank you. -[426.58 --> 428.58] Thank you. -[456.58 --> 458.58] Thank you. -[486.58 --> 488.58] Thank you. -[488.58 --> 490.58] Thank you. -[490.58 --> 492.58] Thank you. -[492.58 --> 522.56] Thank you. -[522.58 --> 552.56] Thank you. -[552.58 --> 582.56] Thank you. -[582.58 --> 584.58] Thank you. -[584.58 --> 588.80] and also welcome if you are joining us online. -[589.94 --> 593.30] Tonight, as I trust you've seen, our format is a little bit different. -[594.44 --> 597.40] It's always interesting to me that when you make changes, -[597.62 --> 600.68] old habits die hard and the first people here sit in the back. -[601.80 --> 603.06] Yeah, mom and dad, that was you. -[605.70 --> 609.48] So the reason we wanted to gather in this more intimate way, -[609.80 --> 612.44] in part is because we knew there would be fewer of us here, -[612.44 --> 622.96] but also because we wanted to try and live into our rehearsing of the story of Ascension in a different way. -[623.40 --> 626.06] And so we're unplugging our worship. -[626.42 --> 630.38] There's no amplification for any of the musicians, just your voices. -[630.84 --> 633.26] Your voices are the amplification. -[634.28 --> 637.88] And so Karis, I'm requiring you to sing extra loud tonight. -[639.78 --> 641.54] And we have no screen. -[641.54 --> 645.42] And so we're going to move through the liturgy in the book that you have, -[645.54 --> 647.22] and it's going to go page by page. -[647.94 --> 652.48] And so if you didn't get one, there's many more available at the back. -[653.16 --> 655.64] So go ahead and grab one of those. -[657.24 --> 659.82] And then as we go, we will move. -[660.98 --> 664.78] Pretty much the only announcement will be turning your page. -[664.78 --> 671.60] And so follow along as we go in our worship this evening together. -[672.10 --> 673.76] I'm going to invite you to stand. -[674.40 --> 678.42] And we're going to begin our worship with a communal call. -[680.06 --> 684.86] Following the call, I will welcome us in God's name. -[684.86 --> 692.32] As mentioned, we are rehearsing together the story of the Ascension of Jesus. -[692.50 --> 697.78] And so we start as our call with the story of the Ascension, -[698.22 --> 700.48] recorded by Luke in the book of Acts. -[700.48 --> 730.46] And after he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, -[730.48 --> 733.74] and a cloud hid him from their sight. -[735.06 --> 737.52] Receive the greeting of our God. -[738.84 --> 745.52] Grace and peace to you from him who is and who was and who is to come, -[745.88 --> 748.26] and from the seven spirits before his throne, -[748.40 --> 751.34] and from Jesus Christ who is the faithful witness, -[751.52 --> 755.72] the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. -[756.16 --> 758.38] And all God's people said, amen. -[758.38 --> 762.62] I invite you to welcome those around you in worship by saying, -[762.70 --> 766.06] the Lord be with you, and then respond with and also with you. -[766.06 --> 781.28] I'll just go let you say it first. -[783.74 --> 784.14] Amen. -[784.14 --> 784.46] Amen. -[784.46 --> 785.02] Amen. -[785.38 --> 785.58] Amen. -[785.58 --> 787.34] Amen. -[791.50 --> 793.74] Amen. -[793.74 --> 795.34] Amen. -[795.34 --> 795.84] Amen. -[795.84 --> 818.74] Alleluia, Alleluia, O Lord of mighty praise. -[818.74 --> 838.74] Alleluia, Alleluia, O Lord of mighty praise. -[838.74 --> 853.74] Alleluia, Alleluia, O Lord of mighty praise. -[853.74 --> 860.74] Alleluia, Alleluia, O Lord of mighty praise. -[860.74 --> 868.74] Alleluia, O Lord of mighty praise. -[868.74 --> 875.74] Alleluia, O Lord of mighty praise. -[875.74 --> 883.74] Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia, O Lord of mighty praise. -[883.74 --> 887.74] Alleluia, O Lord of mighty praise. -[887.74 --> 902.74] Alleluia, Alleluia, O Lord of mighty praise. -[902.74 --> 921.74] Alleluia, Alleluia, O Lord of mighty praise. -[921.74 --> 936.74] Alleluia, Alleluia, O Lord of mighty praise. -[936.74 --> 942.74] Alleluia, O Lord of mighty praise. -[942.74 --> 949.74] Alleluia, O Lord of mighty praise. -[949.74 --> 951.74] Alleluia, O Lord of mighty praise. -[951.74 --> 955.74] Alleluia, O Lord of mighty praise. -[955.74 --> 960.74] Alleluia, O Lord of mighty Lautiēs. -[960.74 --> 965.74] Alleluia, O Lord of mighty praise. -[965.74 --> 995.54] Lord Jesus, we come to you tonight to worship you. -[995.54 --> 996.54] We come to you as King. -[996.54 --> 1002.54] You reign on high in heaven, Lord, and we fully await your return. -[1002.54 --> 1007.94] Jesus, our Savior, tonight as we celebrate your Ascension to heaven where you are seated -[1007.94 --> 1014.94] in all your glory on the throne of thrones, advocating on our behalf to our Heavenly Father, -[1014.94 --> 1017.94] we can do nothing but give you glory. -[1017.94 --> 1024.30] May we be affirmed tonight that we are your people and that one day we will be with you -[1024.30 --> 1026.30] as co-heirs to all your kingdom. -[1026.30 --> 1032.10] Christ, our King, send your Spirit here tonight to be with us and press on our hearts the things -[1032.10 --> 1035.30] that are not of this world but are of your kingdom. -[1035.30 --> 1038.30] Draw us closer to you, Christ, our King. -[1038.30 --> 1039.30] We pray. -[1039.30 --> 1040.30] Amen. -[1040.30 --> 1041.30] Amen. -[1041.30 --> 1042.30] Amen. -[1042.30 --> 1043.30] Amen. -[1043.30 --> 1044.30] Amen. -[1044.30 --> 1045.30] Amen. -[1045.30 --> 1046.30] Amen. -[1046.30 --> 1047.30] Amen. -[1047.30 --> 1048.30] Amen. -[1048.30 --> 1060.30] All hail the power of Jesus, when red angels prospered fall. -[1060.30 --> 1069.50] The power of Jesus did, let angels cross the call. -[1069.50 --> 1084.06] Bring forth the royal diadem and crown him Lord of all. -[1084.06 --> 1099.06] Bring forth the royal diadem and crown him Lord of all. -[1099.06 --> 1112.06] O seed of Israel's chosen ways, now ransomed from the fall. -[1112.06 --> 1126.06] Hail him who saved you by his grace and crown him Lord of all. -[1126.06 --> 1141.06] Hail him who saved you by his grace and crown him Lord of all. -[1141.06 --> 1155.06] Let every tongue and every tribe responsive to his call. -[1155.06 --> 1169.06] To him all majesty asprung and crown him Lord of all. -[1169.06 --> 1183.06] To him all majesty asprung and crown him Lord of all. -[1183.06 --> 1197.06] Oh that with all the sacred cross we at his feet may call. -[1197.06 --> 1211.06] We'll join the everlasting song and crown him Lord of all. -[1211.06 --> 1223.06] We'll join the everlasting song and crown him Lord of all. -[1223.06 --> 1225.06] To him all majesty asprung and crown him Lord of all. -[1225.06 --> 1229.06] To him all majesty asprung and crown him Lord of all. -[1229.06 --> 1235.06] as prayer asprung and crown him Lord of all. -[1235.06 --> 1240.06] To him the Lord of all. -[1240.06 --> 1244.06] To him the senate and crown him Lord of all. -[1244.06 --> 1254.64] Awake my soul and sing of Him who died to me, -[1254.64 --> 1264.14] Your Savior and Your matchless King through all eternity. -[1264.14 --> 1279.26] Crown Him the Lord of life, triumphant o'er the grave, -[1279.26 --> 1290.14] Who rose victorious from the strife for those He came to save. -[1290.14 --> 1300.14] His glories now we sing, Who died and reigns on high, -[1300.14 --> 1312.14] He died eternal life to bring, And lives that death may die. -[1312.14 --> 1324.14] Crown Him the Lord of peace, His kingdom is at hand. -[1324.14 --> 1334.14] Crown Gold to Poland, War-Ferr-Seas, And Christ rules every land. -[1334.14 --> 1346.14] All hail, Redeemer, hail, For You have died for me. -[1346.14 --> 1358.14] Your praise shall never, never kill Throughout eternity. -[1358.14 --> 1364.14] We bow again once more. -[1364.14 --> 1368.14] King of kings, who is crowned in glory, we praise Your name. -[1368.14 --> 1373.14] So often, though, Lord, we put other things ahead of You. -[1373.14 --> 1380.14] We worship idols of our own making, Of our own following, of our own desiring. -[1380.14 --> 1385.14] As we humbly come before You, Lord, we pray for forgiveness. -[1385.14 --> 1390.14] May we come to know and serve and love You more, Lord Jesus our King. -[1390.14 --> 1392.14] Amen. -[1392.14 --> 1406.14] May we come back again, Here at Your knees. -[1406.14 --> 1418.14] May we come back again, Here at Your knees. -[1418.14 --> 1429.14] Show me how much You love, You better teach. -[1429.14 --> 1454.14] Lord, Spirit, lead us, come And lead me to The humble heart of love, I see in You. -[1454.14 --> 1476.14] I'm the God of the broken, The friend of the weak, You wash the feet of the weary, Embrace the ones in me. -[1476.14 --> 1487.14] I want to be like You, Jesus, To have this heart in me. -[1487.14 --> 1500.14] You are the God of the humble, You are the humble King. -[1500.14 --> 1512.14] O kneel me down again, Here at Your feet. -[1512.14 --> 1523.14] Show me how much You love, Humility. -[1523.14 --> 1546.14] O Spirit, be the star, That leads me to The humble heart of love, I see in You. -[1546.14 --> 1568.14] You are the God of the broken, The friend of the weak, You wash the feet of the weary, Embrace the ones in me. -[1568.14 --> 1579.14] I want to be like You, Jesus, To have this heart in me. -[1579.14 --> 1590.14] You are the God of the humble, You are the humble King. -[1590.14 --> 1602.14] You are the God of the humble, You are the humble King. -[1602.14 --> 1625.14] And I want to be like You, Jesus. -[1625.14 --> 1632.32] All my words fall short -[1632.32 --> 1637.24] I've got nothing new -[1637.24 --> 1640.64] How could I express -[1640.64 --> 1645.04] All my gratitude -[1645.04 --> 1650.64] I could sing these songs -[1650.64 --> 1654.64] As I often do -[1654.64 --> 1659.84] Every song I stand -[1659.84 --> 1664.24] And you never hear -[1664.24 --> 1668.42] So I throw up my hands -[1668.42 --> 1670.52] Praise you again -[1670.52 --> 1675.42] All that I have is -[1675.42 --> 1679.70] Alleluia -[1679.70 --> 1683.94] Alleluia -[1683.94 --> 1686.18] And the noise of us -[1686.18 --> 1687.90] Our love in us -[1687.90 --> 1689.14] We've got nothing new -[1689.14 --> 1692.82] Stand for our hearts -[1692.82 --> 1693.54] Singing -[1693.54 --> 1697.54] Alleluia -[1697.54 --> 1702.74] Alleluia -[1702.74 --> 1709.94] I've got one response -[1709.94 --> 1713.46] I've got just one proof -[1713.46 --> 1717.94] With my arms stretched wide -[1717.94 --> 1722.42] I will worship you -[1722.42 --> 1725.66] So I throw up my hands -[1725.66 --> 1729.90] Praise you again and again -[1729.90 --> 1733.14] So I throw up my hands -[1733.14 --> 1737.36] Alleluia -[1737.36 --> 1741.52] Alleluia -[1741.52 --> 1743.16] And I know it's not eaten -[1743.16 --> 1743.78] I know it's not flashed -[1743.78 --> 1744.10] I know it's notWS -[1744.10 --> 1746.18] I know it's Doch -[1746.18 --> 1746.96] Can I possibly ask for a key -[1746.96 --> 1750.26] Step for our hearts -[1750.26 --> 1750.38] Singing -[1750.38 --> 1752.38] in -[1752.38 --> 1754.38] hallelujah -[1754.38 --> 1758.38] hallelujah -[1764.38 --> 1766.38] my soul -[1766.38 --> 1768.38] don't you dare shine -[1768.38 --> 1770.38] lift up your soul -[1770.38 --> 1772.38] that you've got a lion -[1772.38 --> 1774.38] inside those ones -[1774.38 --> 1780.38] get up and praise the Lord -[1780.38 --> 1782.38] oh come on my soul -[1782.38 --> 1784.38] oh don't you dare shine -[1784.38 --> 1786.38] lift up your soul -[1786.38 --> 1788.38] you've got a lion -[1788.38 --> 1790.38] inside those bones -[1790.38 --> 1794.38] get up and praise the Lord -[1794.38 --> 1796.38] oh come on my soul -[1796.38 --> 1798.38] oh don't you dare shine -[1798.38 --> 1800.38] lift up your soul -[1800.38 --> 1802.38] oh don't you dare shine -[1802.38 --> 1804.38] shine on him -[1804.38 --> 1806.38] is that good song -[1806.38 --> 1808.38] shine a lion -[1808.38 --> 1810.38] inside those songs -[1810.38 --> 1814.38] give up and praise the Lord -[1824.38 --> 1826.38] so I've brought my hands -[1826.38 --> 1830.38] and praised you again and again -[1830.38 --> 1834.38] cause all that I have is a -[1834.38 --> 1836.38] hallelujah -[1836.38 --> 1840.38] hallelujah -[1840.38 --> 1844.38] and I know it's not much -[1844.38 --> 1846.38] but I'm nothing else -[1846.38 --> 1848.38] before me -[1848.38 --> 1852.38] except for a heart singing -[1852.38 --> 1854.38] hallelujah -[1854.38 --> 1858.38] hallelujah -[1858.38 --> 1860.38] hallelujah -[1864.38 --> 1868.38] oh -[1872.38 --> 1874.38] As you take a seat -[1874.38 --> 1876.38] let's come to God -[1876.38 --> 1891.94] Jesus, you are our king. -[1893.76 --> 1897.00] And so with humble hearts, we offer you all that we can. -[1897.00 --> 1902.76] And maybe right now, all that that is, is hallelujah. -[1906.38 --> 1920.36] Maybe right now, all that that is, is our presence here with you. -[1924.86 --> 1935.78] Maybe right now, all that that is, is a crying heart longing to see more of you. -[1936.38 --> 1942.70] So as we come to your word, may we hear your voice. -[1943.90 --> 1949.54] As we come to these eternal truths, may we see in them your face. -[1949.54 --> 1961.22] And as we reflect on the story of your ascension, as we reflect on the truth of your kingship, -[1963.06 --> 1967.88] may our hearts be stirred to give you a more profound hallelujah. -[1968.82 --> 1975.56] May our hearts be stirred to give you greater and more comprehensive praise in all that we do. -[1975.56 --> 1984.16] May our hearts be stirred that our tears of sorrow might be turned to tears of joy. -[1985.12 --> 1991.20] Because tonight we see you, Lord Jesus, on the throne of your grace as king. -[1991.20 --> 2000.74] Speak now, we pray, Lord Jesus, directly to our hearts. -[2002.30 --> 2007.70] That it might be applicable directly to our lives. -[2008.58 --> 2010.16] In your name we pray. -[2011.06 --> 2011.44] Amen. -[2011.44 --> 2011.54] Amen. -[2011.54 --> 2024.14] I don't know if you remember Easter or Palm Sunday or Good Friday, in between those two. -[2024.74 --> 2030.56] But when we were here, every one of those services, we were looking at the story of Jesus in the gospel of Matthew. -[2030.56 --> 2034.74] And we said that we were rehearsing the narrative. -[2035.50 --> 2038.64] We were rehearsing the truths of Palm Sunday. -[2038.86 --> 2043.84] And so when crowds of people walked with palm branches in our midst, they lived that out. -[2044.36 --> 2051.76] On Good Friday, when we came and we spent time in silence and in that dark night of the soul in worship, -[2051.76 --> 2056.50] we were rehearsing those who cried out at the death of Jesus. -[2056.50 --> 2063.98] And on Easter Sunday, when we came, hundreds upon hundreds of voices joyfully singing praise to the Lord, -[2064.04 --> 2068.42] we were shouting the empty tomb like those first disciples did. -[2070.02 --> 2076.96] And tonight, we continue that act of rehearsing in our worship and for our worship -[2076.96 --> 2082.38] in the themes and ideas of the ascension of Jesus. -[2082.38 --> 2098.18] Now, Ascension Day in the Christian church isn't new, but very clearly, it's not as popular as Easter. -[2099.44 --> 2102.08] It's not as well attended as Good Friday. -[2102.94 --> 2105.80] And maybe it pales in comparison to Christmas. -[2106.94 --> 2108.32] But why is that? -[2108.92 --> 2111.76] And more importantly, should it? -[2112.38 --> 2125.50] The Reformed Church has always held up Ascension Day as the day. -[2126.18 --> 2131.10] On par, maybe even greater than Easter itself. -[2132.58 --> 2138.16] What I want to do is just going to give you a quick little history of theology for a few seconds. -[2138.16 --> 2142.38] But the reason I do that is because I'm going to quote from a few people here. -[2142.48 --> 2148.96] But as I do that, please note that I get further and further back in history with these people that I talk about. -[2150.16 --> 2155.16] And so, the first is a theologian named Herman Bavinck. -[2155.84 --> 2158.64] He's a Dutch theologian in the late 19th century. -[2158.64 --> 2160.64] And he said, -[2160.64 --> 2178.34] And that idea of the humiliation of Jesus, the condescending of Jesus, the coming down in the incarnation, -[2178.70 --> 2184.02] and his learning obedience, and his death on the cross being the road to his exaltation, -[2184.02 --> 2188.26] is the theme that's going to run right through everything you hear from me tonight. -[2189.70 --> 2197.02] Let's jump back 400 years before Herman Bavinck to a theologian named John Calvin, -[2197.82 --> 2202.38] a Frenchman who lived and pastored in Geneva at the time of the Reformation. -[2202.38 --> 2211.60] He says that our redemption was fully complete and finished then when Christ did ascend unto his Father. -[2215.02 --> 2222.58] Without the ascension, our redemption, according to Calvin at least, is not yet fully complete and finished. -[2224.04 --> 2229.10] And Calvin actually, he goes on in quite a voluminous manner to give us three reasons -[2229.10 --> 2235.82] why the ascension of Jesus is vital for our Christian faith and for our life together. -[2236.48 --> 2238.98] He says in his Institutes, -[2239.10 --> 2241.24] Having entered the temple not made with hands, -[2241.34 --> 2246.34] he constantly appears as our advocate and intercessor in the presence of the Father. -[2247.32 --> 2251.74] So, if Jesus did not leave, we would not have a constant intercessor, -[2252.22 --> 2253.38] like the book of Hebrews says. -[2253.38 --> 2254.38] Right? -[2255.18 --> 2260.80] We have a constant advocate in the presence of God our Father. -[2261.88 --> 2262.06] Right? -[2262.08 --> 2265.30] That the wrath of God for my sin is turned away -[2265.30 --> 2270.18] because Jesus, right now in heaven, is standing front of the Father saying, -[2270.58 --> 2272.18] Don't look at him, look at me. -[2273.36 --> 2275.56] See me when you see her. -[2276.70 --> 2279.96] See me and my perfection when you see his sin. -[2280.86 --> 2282.26] That's what Jesus is doing. -[2283.38 --> 2286.30] On your behalf, in front of the Father, -[2287.10 --> 2289.66] with you on his mind and you in his heart, -[2290.64 --> 2293.64] saying, Look at my perfection, -[2294.40 --> 2296.78] not at their sin. -[2297.92 --> 2299.14] Calvin goes on and he says, -[2299.56 --> 2303.26] By his ascension, Jesus opened up access to the heavenly kingdom, -[2303.78 --> 2305.14] which Adam had shut. -[2306.12 --> 2308.34] And what Calvin means there, as he goes on to explain, -[2308.34 --> 2313.10] is that Jesus is in heaven as a man. -[2313.60 --> 2313.86] Right? -[2313.94 --> 2314.96] As a human. -[2315.24 --> 2316.16] Fully human. -[2316.16 --> 2316.70] Right? -[2316.78 --> 2320.38] We, as humans, people here and now on this earth and in this life, -[2320.74 --> 2323.02] don't only have the hope of heaven, -[2323.18 --> 2327.62] but in some way, part of us is already in heaven. -[2327.94 --> 2330.66] Because if we belong to Jesus, we are part of his body. -[2330.66 --> 2334.22] And as you know, Jesus is the head of the body. -[2334.38 --> 2338.12] And so already now, your head is in heaven. -[2339.30 --> 2344.72] Already now, a piece of who you are is in heaven. -[2344.72 --> 2350.00] Without the ascension, that doesn't happen. -[2351.16 --> 2352.30] That's not possible. -[2353.80 --> 2357.30] Calvin goes on to say, he paraphrases Ephesians 4, -[2357.66 --> 2358.02] he says, -[2358.22 --> 2361.50] When he ascended on high, he led captivity captive. -[2362.48 --> 2364.24] And I love that phrase. -[2364.34 --> 2366.36] He led captivity captive. -[2366.80 --> 2367.00] Right? -[2367.08 --> 2368.74] Because Christ has ascended, -[2369.24 --> 2370.72] we have been redeemed, -[2370.72 --> 2375.70] and death has been given victory over, -[2375.70 --> 2378.16] and he, by the Holy Spirit, -[2378.30 --> 2380.38] now makes us alive. -[2381.64 --> 2386.16] And so captivity, our slavery and deathliness in sin, -[2386.52 --> 2389.70] has been made captive, has been killed. -[2389.92 --> 2393.02] Death is dead because Jesus ascended. -[2393.26 --> 2395.28] The Spirit is able to come, -[2395.36 --> 2397.50] and we are made alive. -[2397.50 --> 2400.98] Jesus himself says, -[2401.72 --> 2405.24] Unless I go, I cannot send the Spirit. -[2406.36 --> 2407.66] So your faith, -[2408.22 --> 2410.36] any modicum of faith that you have -[2410.36 --> 2412.00] as a gift from God -[2412.00 --> 2414.34] is granted to you by the Holy Spirit -[2414.34 --> 2418.04] that came precisely and only because -[2418.04 --> 2420.76] Jesus was ascended. -[2420.76 --> 2425.84] This actually perfectly paraphrases -[2425.84 --> 2428.60] the teaching of the Heidelberg Catechism. -[2429.12 --> 2430.74] And so when Kevin prayed earlier, -[2430.86 --> 2432.06] you saw it in your booklets. -[2432.72 --> 2435.32] Heidelberg Catechism question and answer 49 -[2435.32 --> 2440.48] says that the reason the ascension benefits us -[2440.48 --> 2443.20] is because we have an advocate in heaven -[2443.20 --> 2444.44] in the presence of our Father. -[2445.44 --> 2446.78] It's exactly what Calvin taught. -[2447.42 --> 2449.32] Second, we have our own flesh in heaven -[2449.32 --> 2451.30] as a sure pledge that Christ, our head, -[2451.38 --> 2454.04] will also take us, his members, up to himself. -[2454.34 --> 2456.78] And third, he sends his Spirit to us on earth -[2456.78 --> 2458.16] as a corresponding pledge. -[2458.52 --> 2460.30] By the Spirit's power, -[2460.46 --> 2461.96] we seek not earthly things, -[2462.24 --> 2463.20] but the things above, -[2463.32 --> 2464.38] where Christ is, -[2464.82 --> 2466.70] seated at the right hand of God. -[2466.70 --> 2474.98] Now, go a thousand years further back in history, -[2475.66 --> 2477.52] into the fifth century, -[2478.04 --> 2481.08] and you have a church father by the name of Augustine. -[2481.66 --> 2483.94] Augustine is a church father from North Africa. -[2484.92 --> 2486.50] He's named Bishop of Hippo, -[2486.92 --> 2489.58] which is near the Mediterranean coast, -[2489.68 --> 2492.88] a little bit west of Alexandria or Egypt. -[2492.88 --> 2500.06] Augustine, in a sermon on Ascension Day, -[2500.14 --> 2501.90] in one of his Ascension Day sermons, -[2502.08 --> 2502.38] said, -[2502.76 --> 2504.70] He, while he is there, -[2504.84 --> 2506.06] is also with us, -[2506.14 --> 2507.76] and we, while we are here, -[2508.16 --> 2509.68] are also with him. -[2510.72 --> 2513.10] And again, that's that beautiful exchange. -[2513.94 --> 2515.88] That Jesus, though he is there, -[2515.98 --> 2517.62] is here with us by the Spirit, -[2517.62 --> 2519.82] and that we, though we are here, -[2520.14 --> 2520.86] are with him, -[2521.00 --> 2522.56] because as our head, -[2522.92 --> 2525.44] he gathers us up into himself -[2525.44 --> 2530.28] and brings us into the heavenly places. -[2532.38 --> 2535.70] And go back even 500 years before that, -[2536.38 --> 2538.34] and Jesus himself says, -[2538.88 --> 2540.62] I must go. -[2541.14 --> 2543.24] It is for your good, he says, -[2543.44 --> 2544.38] that I go. -[2547.62 --> 2550.64] So we've gone all the way back to Jesus. -[2551.94 --> 2553.24] In preparing for this, -[2553.38 --> 2556.00] I spent a little while -[2556.00 --> 2557.74] digging through sermons -[2557.74 --> 2560.62] from the third century on Ascension Day. -[2561.66 --> 2563.04] And the reason I do that, -[2563.08 --> 2564.54] and the reason I name that here, -[2565.10 --> 2566.72] is because that means -[2566.72 --> 2570.16] for at least 1,800 years, -[2571.00 --> 2572.16] the Christian church -[2572.16 --> 2574.16] has been gathering on this day, -[2574.16 --> 2576.20] marking this truth -[2576.20 --> 2577.92] of who Jesus is. -[2579.44 --> 2580.90] What we do here -[2580.90 --> 2582.18] is no small thing. -[2583.38 --> 2584.60] What we do here -[2584.60 --> 2585.58] is participating -[2585.58 --> 2587.84] in the line of faith -[2587.84 --> 2589.18] that has come before us, -[2589.26 --> 2590.38] that great cloud of witnesses, -[2590.74 --> 2592.48] and standing on that -[2592.48 --> 2594.66] practice and truth. -[2596.02 --> 2597.32] What we do here -[2597.32 --> 2598.92] is not only rehearse -[2598.92 --> 2600.66] the story of Jesus' life, -[2600.66 --> 2602.48] but we participate -[2602.48 --> 2604.04] in the rehearsing -[2604.04 --> 2606.08] of the church's history. -[2608.18 --> 2610.82] Make no small thing about it. -[2610.82 --> 2614.90] This is a practice -[2614.90 --> 2616.20] of the church -[2616.20 --> 2618.22] that is deeply rooted -[2618.22 --> 2620.04] and purposeful, -[2620.56 --> 2623.06] and so gives us roots -[2623.06 --> 2625.34] and purpose in life, -[2625.54 --> 2626.94] especially in a time -[2626.94 --> 2628.32] and a place in the world -[2628.32 --> 2629.68] where everything is shaky. -[2629.68 --> 2630.76] Right? -[2630.80 --> 2632.26] Where the ground beneath us -[2632.26 --> 2633.44] seems to move -[2633.44 --> 2634.40] and flutter -[2634.40 --> 2635.46] and shift -[2635.46 --> 2637.04] even as we try to stand. -[2637.28 --> 2638.30] Where we try to reach out -[2638.30 --> 2638.94] and grab hold -[2638.94 --> 2639.78] of something firm -[2639.78 --> 2641.12] only to open our hands -[2641.12 --> 2642.04] and like the teacher says -[2642.04 --> 2642.72] in Ecclesiastes, -[2642.94 --> 2643.70] to realize -[2643.70 --> 2645.02] it's a chasing after the wind. -[2646.90 --> 2647.42] This, -[2647.82 --> 2648.92] what you do, -[2649.28 --> 2649.76] here, -[2650.64 --> 2652.66] is an established -[2652.66 --> 2654.48] history. -[2655.56 --> 2656.18] And my prayer -[2656.18 --> 2657.72] is that it is part of God -[2657.72 --> 2658.62] establishing -[2658.62 --> 2658.64] establishing -[2658.64 --> 2660.50] your faith. -[2661.62 --> 2662.60] This is no -[2662.60 --> 2664.22] small thing. -[2664.88 --> 2665.68] And as we rehearse -[2665.68 --> 2666.34] this story, -[2666.70 --> 2667.16] know that -[2667.16 --> 2668.18] in the incarnation -[2668.18 --> 2669.60] and in Christmas, -[2669.88 --> 2670.10] right, -[2670.18 --> 2670.90] we proclaim -[2670.90 --> 2671.98] that God has -[2671.98 --> 2673.32] remembered his people, -[2673.64 --> 2674.42] he has remembered -[2674.42 --> 2675.18] his promise, -[2675.38 --> 2676.14] and God, -[2676.22 --> 2676.82] Emmanuel, -[2677.36 --> 2678.48] has now come -[2678.48 --> 2679.88] to be with us. -[2680.84 --> 2681.68] And in the life -[2681.68 --> 2682.30] of Jesus, -[2682.30 --> 2683.54] we rehearse the story -[2683.54 --> 2684.80] and we proclaim -[2684.80 --> 2685.96] with Jesus -[2685.96 --> 2686.90] that he is -[2686.90 --> 2688.10] the obedient one, -[2688.22 --> 2689.90] he is the perfectly -[2689.90 --> 2691.18] righteous one, -[2691.24 --> 2692.26] and that he is -[2692.26 --> 2692.86] the fulfilling -[2692.86 --> 2693.96] of the law -[2693.96 --> 2694.98] that we could never -[2694.98 --> 2695.74] keep. -[2696.68 --> 2697.72] And in the death -[2697.72 --> 2698.40] of Jesus, -[2698.78 --> 2699.86] he proclaims, -[2700.00 --> 2701.08] I have paid -[2701.08 --> 2701.70] the penalty -[2701.70 --> 2703.18] for all of your failings. -[2703.40 --> 2704.22] I have lived -[2704.22 --> 2705.46] the life you should have lived -[2705.46 --> 2706.34] and died the death -[2706.34 --> 2707.28] that you deserved. -[2707.50 --> 2708.34] I have paid -[2708.34 --> 2709.68] for your rebellion. -[2709.82 --> 2710.34] The punishment -[2710.34 --> 2711.54] that brought you peace -[2711.54 --> 2712.72] is on my shoulders. -[2712.72 --> 2715.76] And in the resurrection, -[2716.08 --> 2717.20] Jesus proclaims, -[2717.56 --> 2718.50] I have won. -[2719.10 --> 2720.38] Death is dead. -[2720.56 --> 2721.88] God is victorious. -[2722.16 --> 2722.80] And then tonight, -[2723.20 --> 2724.06] in the ascension, -[2724.22 --> 2725.56] this same Jesus says, -[2726.02 --> 2727.64] I am king. -[2728.68 --> 2730.18] Come to me, -[2730.56 --> 2731.66] all who are weary -[2731.66 --> 2732.44] and heavy laden, -[2732.48 --> 2733.90] and I will give you rest. -[2734.28 --> 2734.80] Jesus says, -[2734.92 --> 2735.92] I am king. -[2736.06 --> 2736.94] All authority -[2736.94 --> 2737.86] in heaven -[2737.86 --> 2738.38] and on earth -[2738.38 --> 2739.48] has been given to me. -[2739.88 --> 2741.06] Jesus proclaims -[2741.06 --> 2741.76] in the ascension, -[2741.76 --> 2743.14] mine is the name -[2743.14 --> 2744.20] above all names. -[2744.56 --> 2745.52] Jesus proclaims -[2745.52 --> 2746.10] in the ascension, -[2746.28 --> 2747.20] I am the one -[2747.20 --> 2748.56] to whom every knee -[2748.56 --> 2749.08] will bow -[2749.08 --> 2750.00] and tongue confess -[2750.00 --> 2750.46] in heaven -[2750.46 --> 2751.00] and on earth -[2751.00 --> 2751.84] and under the earth -[2751.84 --> 2756.18] that I am the one -[2756.18 --> 2758.16] to the glory -[2758.16 --> 2760.30] of God the Father. -[2762.08 --> 2763.42] There is a road -[2763.42 --> 2764.80] for each -[2764.80 --> 2766.74] and we rehearse those -[2766.74 --> 2768.08] in the lives of faith, -[2768.20 --> 2769.20] firmly rooting ourselves -[2769.20 --> 2769.88] in the history -[2769.88 --> 2771.12] of the church. -[2771.76 --> 2774.98] But what we have -[2774.98 --> 2776.38] to see tonight -[2776.38 --> 2779.94] is that there is -[2779.94 --> 2780.60] a road -[2780.60 --> 2781.92] for each -[2781.92 --> 2784.14] that cannot be -[2784.14 --> 2785.26] shortcut. -[2787.14 --> 2788.78] So in Matthew 4, -[2789.02 --> 2789.88] it's in your books, -[2790.72 --> 2792.76] Jesus has gone -[2792.76 --> 2793.48] into the wilderness -[2793.48 --> 2794.72] after the baptism -[2794.72 --> 2796.18] and he is tempted -[2796.18 --> 2797.32] by the devil. -[2797.32 --> 2799.20] right? -[2799.26 --> 2800.18] The devil tempts him -[2800.18 --> 2800.64] twice -[2800.64 --> 2801.46] and in the third -[2801.46 --> 2802.10] temptation -[2802.10 --> 2803.22] we read -[2803.22 --> 2804.14] in verses 8 -[2804.14 --> 2804.92] and 9, -[2804.92 --> 2805.92] again, -[2810.06 --> 2810.90] the devil took him -[2810.90 --> 2812.06] to a very high mountain -[2812.06 --> 2812.78] and showed him -[2812.78 --> 2813.62] all the kingdoms -[2813.62 --> 2814.66] of the world -[2814.66 --> 2815.72] and their splendor. -[2816.22 --> 2816.82] All this -[2816.82 --> 2817.68] I will give you, -[2817.74 --> 2818.24] he said, -[2818.32 --> 2819.82] if you bow down -[2819.82 --> 2821.16] and worship -[2821.16 --> 2822.42] me. -[2822.42 --> 2826.28] today, -[2826.64 --> 2828.96] I had the chance -[2828.96 --> 2829.84] to go with -[2829.84 --> 2830.62] a friend of mine -[2830.62 --> 2831.10] who's visiting -[2831.10 --> 2831.76] from Ontario -[2831.76 --> 2834.54] to Seymour Mountain -[2834.54 --> 2836.44] and then took the trail -[2836.44 --> 2837.56] to the Dog Mountain -[2837.56 --> 2837.94] lookout. -[2838.50 --> 2839.12] I don't know if any -[2839.12 --> 2839.68] of you have ever -[2839.68 --> 2841.08] done that trail, -[2841.54 --> 2842.64] but as you stand -[2842.64 --> 2843.40] on the Dog Mountain -[2843.40 --> 2843.74] lookout, -[2843.88 --> 2844.86] you're north of Vancouver -[2844.86 --> 2845.80] looking south -[2845.80 --> 2847.26] and you can see -[2847.26 --> 2848.78] today was crystal clear. -[2848.92 --> 2849.68] We could see -[2849.68 --> 2851.18] the Olympic -[2851.18 --> 2852.80] Peninsula Mountains -[2852.80 --> 2854.30] as far -[2854.30 --> 2855.32] as that -[2855.32 --> 2856.28] and so we could see -[2856.28 --> 2857.16] everything -[2857.16 --> 2858.88] and we could see -[2858.88 --> 2859.38] Vancouver -[2859.38 --> 2860.72] laid out before us. -[2861.42 --> 2862.34] Knowing that I was -[2862.34 --> 2863.40] preaching on this text, -[2863.48 --> 2863.98] I kind of thought -[2863.98 --> 2865.12] this is what Jesus -[2865.12 --> 2865.98] would have experienced. -[2866.12 --> 2866.56] He stood -[2866.56 --> 2867.66] at the high place -[2867.66 --> 2868.58] and he saw -[2868.58 --> 2869.30] the kingdoms -[2869.30 --> 2869.94] laid out -[2869.94 --> 2871.00] before him -[2871.00 --> 2873.08] and the devil said, -[2873.38 --> 2873.86] all this -[2873.86 --> 2874.76] I will give you -[2874.76 --> 2876.42] if you bow down -[2876.42 --> 2877.12] and worship me. -[2878.10 --> 2879.24] But Jesus knows, -[2879.98 --> 2880.32] right? -[2880.38 --> 2881.04] He knows. -[2881.24 --> 2881.92] He knows -[2881.92 --> 2883.00] that he will get there, -[2883.48 --> 2884.24] right? -[2884.26 --> 2885.12] We've already heard it -[2885.12 --> 2885.98] from Matthew 28, -[2886.10 --> 2886.80] all authority -[2886.80 --> 2887.72] in heaven and on earth -[2887.72 --> 2888.74] has been given to me, -[2889.12 --> 2891.12] but Jesus knows -[2891.12 --> 2892.26] there is a road -[2892.26 --> 2893.36] for each. -[2894.58 --> 2896.20] There is a right path -[2896.20 --> 2897.58] to get there. -[2898.54 --> 2899.42] The second text -[2899.42 --> 2900.22] that's in your books, -[2900.42 --> 2901.08] Hebrews 1, -[2901.86 --> 2902.20] says, -[2902.32 --> 2902.50] again, -[2902.64 --> 2903.36] he will get there. -[2903.46 --> 2903.92] The sun -[2903.92 --> 2904.92] is the radiance -[2904.92 --> 2905.84] of God's glory -[2905.84 --> 2906.62] and the exact -[2906.62 --> 2907.16] representation -[2907.16 --> 2908.12] of his being, -[2908.26 --> 2909.52] sustaining all things -[2909.52 --> 2910.74] by his powerful word. -[2911.64 --> 2913.12] And after he had provided -[2913.12 --> 2914.92] purification for sins, -[2915.02 --> 2915.98] he sat down -[2915.98 --> 2916.96] at the right hand -[2916.96 --> 2918.02] of the majesty -[2918.02 --> 2918.96] in heaven. -[2919.74 --> 2920.70] And so he became -[2920.70 --> 2921.52] much superior -[2921.52 --> 2922.30] to the angels -[2922.30 --> 2922.92] as the name -[2922.92 --> 2923.90] he has inherited -[2923.90 --> 2924.98] is superior -[2924.98 --> 2926.06] to theirs. -[2927.96 --> 2928.48] Right? -[2928.52 --> 2929.22] He gets there, -[2929.88 --> 2931.82] but there's a road -[2931.82 --> 2933.12] for each. -[2933.12 --> 2935.46] And after he provided -[2935.46 --> 2936.16] purification -[2936.16 --> 2937.08] for sins, -[2937.22 --> 2938.10] he sat down -[2938.10 --> 2939.36] at the right hand -[2939.36 --> 2940.34] of the Father. -[2941.20 --> 2942.36] I don't think -[2942.36 --> 2943.26] the author of Hebrews -[2943.26 --> 2944.80] has only in mind -[2944.80 --> 2945.16] there -[2945.16 --> 2946.28] a chronology -[2946.28 --> 2947.12] of events. -[2948.02 --> 2949.44] I think the author -[2949.44 --> 2949.96] of Hebrews -[2949.96 --> 2951.16] has a necessary -[2951.16 --> 2951.82] order -[2951.82 --> 2953.28] in mind. -[2954.28 --> 2955.26] Such that -[2955.26 --> 2956.02] the road -[2956.02 --> 2957.80] to heaven, -[2958.40 --> 2959.36] the road -[2959.36 --> 2960.28] to the right hand -[2960.28 --> 2960.96] of the Father, -[2961.28 --> 2961.72] the road -[2961.72 --> 2962.26] for Jesus -[2962.26 --> 2963.14] to that throne -[2963.14 --> 2964.28] above all thrones, -[2964.62 --> 2965.12] the road -[2965.12 --> 2965.58] for Jesus -[2965.58 --> 2966.70] to all authority -[2966.70 --> 2968.18] in heaven -[2968.18 --> 2968.84] and on earth -[2968.84 --> 2970.12] had to go -[2970.12 --> 2971.88] through the cross. -[2974.78 --> 2975.72] What the devil -[2975.72 --> 2976.36] offered him -[2976.36 --> 2976.84] as he stood -[2976.84 --> 2977.50] on that peak -[2977.50 --> 2978.20] and looked out -[2978.20 --> 2979.80] over the world -[2979.80 --> 2981.34] was his. -[2982.56 --> 2982.78] Right? -[2982.82 --> 2983.64] The irony is that -[2983.64 --> 2984.50] not only did -[2984.50 --> 2986.26] he create it, -[2986.72 --> 2987.00] right, -[2987.12 --> 2988.20] for by him -[2988.20 --> 2988.90] and through him -[2988.90 --> 2990.10] are all things, -[2990.26 --> 2991.62] like by the word -[2991.62 --> 2992.26] of Jesus -[2992.26 --> 2992.96] all things -[2992.96 --> 2993.60] are created. -[2993.74 --> 2994.52] The devil says -[2994.52 --> 2995.28] to the one -[2995.28 --> 2996.04] who created it, -[2996.24 --> 2996.60] hey man, -[2996.64 --> 2997.52] I'll give you this -[2997.52 --> 2999.38] if you worship me -[2999.38 --> 3001.42] and I can't imagine, -[3001.90 --> 3002.96] I can only imagine -[3002.96 --> 3003.62] Jesus going, -[3004.20 --> 3005.14] you know I spoke -[3005.14 --> 3006.04] this into being, -[3006.58 --> 3006.92] right? -[3009.74 --> 3011.22] But Jesus knows -[3011.22 --> 3013.40] that the way -[3013.40 --> 3014.80] to this -[3014.80 --> 3016.52] all authority -[3016.52 --> 3017.82] to this throne -[3017.82 --> 3019.20] has to be -[3019.20 --> 3021.28] through the cross. -[3022.92 --> 3023.58] Kingship -[3023.58 --> 3025.20] rightly belongs -[3025.20 --> 3025.76] to Jesus. -[3026.22 --> 3027.14] That's what we proclaim -[3027.14 --> 3028.00] on Ascension Day, -[3028.12 --> 3030.08] that Jesus is king, -[3030.22 --> 3031.50] but the means -[3031.50 --> 3032.54] of his being -[3032.54 --> 3033.14] exalted -[3033.14 --> 3033.98] and named -[3033.98 --> 3034.90] as king -[3034.90 --> 3036.72] cannot be -[3036.72 --> 3037.46] cut short -[3037.46 --> 3038.32] or shortcut. -[3040.64 --> 3042.00] It has to go -[3042.00 --> 3042.72] through the cross. -[3042.72 --> 3045.36] And so, -[3045.74 --> 3047.06] as we have seen -[3047.06 --> 3048.40] and as the history -[3048.40 --> 3049.06] of the church -[3049.06 --> 3049.86] has affirmed -[3049.86 --> 3050.66] and as the very -[3050.66 --> 3051.84] liturgical practices -[3051.84 --> 3053.04] that we have lived -[3053.04 --> 3054.54] into and rehearsed -[3054.54 --> 3054.94] tonight -[3054.94 --> 3056.34] say over and over -[3056.34 --> 3056.72] again, -[3057.02 --> 3058.28] the Ascension of Jesus -[3058.28 --> 3059.84] is a deep hope -[3059.84 --> 3060.66] for you -[3060.66 --> 3061.58] and for me. -[3061.82 --> 3062.76] The Ascension of Jesus -[3062.76 --> 3063.82] is a necessary, -[3064.28 --> 3064.80] beautiful, -[3064.94 --> 3065.90] gospel reality -[3065.90 --> 3067.34] available to us. -[3067.34 --> 3070.22] but I want to suggest -[3070.22 --> 3071.84] that the Ascension -[3071.84 --> 3072.34] of Jesus -[3072.34 --> 3073.30] is also -[3073.30 --> 3074.26] a pattern -[3074.26 --> 3075.76] for us. -[3080.40 --> 3081.24] Here's the promise -[3081.24 --> 3081.74] of God -[3081.74 --> 3082.50] for those of us -[3082.50 --> 3082.98] who believe. -[3084.16 --> 3084.72] That you will be -[3084.72 --> 3085.30] granted heaven, -[3085.86 --> 3086.72] that you will be -[3086.72 --> 3087.52] given a reward -[3087.52 --> 3088.76] and that you will know -[3088.76 --> 3090.60] amazing glory -[3090.60 --> 3091.78] and the infinite -[3091.78 --> 3092.84] beauty of God -[3092.84 --> 3093.48] our Father. -[3094.82 --> 3095.72] In 1 Peter, -[3095.72 --> 3096.30] we are told -[3096.30 --> 3097.58] that we will receive -[3097.58 --> 3098.92] a crown of glory -[3098.92 --> 3100.22] that will never fade away. -[3101.36 --> 3102.64] In Revelation 2, -[3102.72 --> 3103.24] verse 10, -[3103.50 --> 3104.44] the letter to the church, -[3104.84 --> 3105.90] they are praised -[3105.90 --> 3107.14] and they are promised -[3107.14 --> 3108.28] that if they are faithful -[3108.28 --> 3108.90] to the end, -[3108.98 --> 3109.76] they will receive -[3109.76 --> 3111.00] the victor's crown. -[3112.08 --> 3112.48] James, -[3112.64 --> 3113.66] talking about the same thing, -[3113.74 --> 3115.30] calls it the crown of life. -[3115.66 --> 3116.72] Timothy refers to this -[3116.72 --> 3118.22] as the crown of righteousness. -[3119.74 --> 3121.34] The truth of the gospel -[3121.34 --> 3122.30] and the truth -[3122.30 --> 3123.46] of what Jesus has done -[3123.46 --> 3123.94] and the truth -[3123.94 --> 3124.64] of his ascension -[3124.64 --> 3126.40] is as 2 Timothy 2 says, -[3126.68 --> 3127.72] if we died with him, -[3127.78 --> 3128.94] we will also live with him. -[3129.14 --> 3130.00] If we endure, -[3130.40 --> 3132.14] we will also reign -[3132.14 --> 3133.42] with him. -[3135.02 --> 3136.12] The Bible ends, -[3136.16 --> 3136.68] for those of you -[3136.68 --> 3137.22] who haven't got -[3137.22 --> 3137.98] to the end yet, -[3138.24 --> 3138.96] the Bible ends -[3138.96 --> 3140.06] in Revelation 20, -[3140.12 --> 3141.02] 21, and 22 -[3141.02 --> 3143.00] with all of those -[3143.00 --> 3143.56] who believe, -[3143.66 --> 3144.54] the bride of Christ, -[3144.82 --> 3145.28] it says, -[3145.48 --> 3146.94] reigning with Christ -[3146.94 --> 3147.92] forever. -[3150.56 --> 3151.64] The ascension -[3151.64 --> 3153.16] is a guarantee -[3153.16 --> 3155.24] of that future reality. -[3155.24 --> 3156.38] The ascension -[3156.38 --> 3157.18] is a guarantee -[3157.18 --> 3158.88] of that crown of glory. -[3159.24 --> 3159.76] The ascension -[3159.76 --> 3160.54] is a guarantee -[3160.54 --> 3162.96] of that promised future. -[3165.28 --> 3166.74] But there is a road -[3166.74 --> 3168.36] for each. -[3169.96 --> 3171.00] And so even as -[3171.00 --> 3171.96] the ascension of Jesus -[3171.96 --> 3173.44] is a guarantee for us, -[3173.44 --> 3175.66] we also have to see -[3175.66 --> 3177.36] that just like for Jesus, -[3177.36 --> 3181.00] we have to go through -[3181.00 --> 3182.72] the cross. -[3184.10 --> 3185.52] Jesus himself promised -[3185.52 --> 3186.44] that in this world -[3186.44 --> 3187.40] you will have trouble. -[3189.38 --> 3189.74] Jesus, -[3190.14 --> 3191.74] or 1 Peter says, -[3192.14 --> 3192.68] dear friends, -[3192.82 --> 3193.92] do not be surprised -[3193.92 --> 3195.24] at the fiery ordeal -[3195.24 --> 3196.10] that has come on you -[3196.10 --> 3196.90] to test you -[3196.90 --> 3197.98] as though something strange -[3197.98 --> 3198.86] were happening to you. -[3199.66 --> 3200.48] Peter's point there -[3200.48 --> 3201.68] is this is normal. -[3202.40 --> 3203.72] Don't be surprised. -[3204.60 --> 3205.46] Over and over again, -[3205.52 --> 3205.88] the Bible says, -[3205.88 --> 3206.74] anyone who wants -[3206.74 --> 3208.18] to follow after God -[3208.18 --> 3209.74] is going to face opposition. -[3209.96 --> 3210.50] Anyone who wants -[3210.50 --> 3211.18] to be holy -[3211.18 --> 3212.70] is going to face persecution. -[3213.60 --> 3214.28] This is the truth -[3214.28 --> 3214.90] of what it means -[3214.90 --> 3216.48] to be a disciple of Jesus. -[3216.66 --> 3217.90] Jesus himself said -[3217.90 --> 3218.58] in Luke 9, -[3218.70 --> 3219.34] whoever wants -[3219.34 --> 3220.26] to be my disciple -[3220.26 --> 3221.82] must deny themselves, -[3222.04 --> 3223.68] take up their cross daily -[3223.68 --> 3225.32] and follow me. -[3225.44 --> 3225.88] Whoever wants -[3225.88 --> 3226.92] to save their life -[3226.92 --> 3227.46] will lose it, -[3227.54 --> 3228.32] but whoever loses -[3228.32 --> 3230.14] his life for my sake -[3230.14 --> 3231.86] will save it. -[3231.86 --> 3236.20] the end of the journey -[3236.20 --> 3237.20] for the Christian -[3237.20 --> 3239.66] is reigning in glory -[3239.66 --> 3240.80] with Jesus. -[3242.48 --> 3243.74] But the way there -[3243.74 --> 3245.86] is to daily take up -[3245.86 --> 3246.44] your cross -[3246.44 --> 3248.26] and follow him. -[3250.20 --> 3251.68] And so don't be surprised -[3251.68 --> 3253.48] when this world -[3253.48 --> 3254.74] challenges you -[3254.74 --> 3256.20] or don't be surprised -[3256.20 --> 3257.64] when this world -[3257.64 --> 3258.74] offers you -[3258.74 --> 3259.76] a way to shortcut -[3259.76 --> 3261.76] that hardship. -[3263.06 --> 3264.28] But it won't do. -[3265.44 --> 3266.38] It can't do. -[3267.30 --> 3268.66] The way to the crown -[3268.66 --> 3269.26] of glory -[3269.26 --> 3270.04] is only -[3270.04 --> 3271.98] through the cruciform -[3271.98 --> 3272.92] life. -[3273.82 --> 3274.86] It's only through -[3274.86 --> 3275.62] the dying -[3275.62 --> 3276.70] to self -[3276.70 --> 3278.02] and the daily -[3278.02 --> 3278.68] rising -[3278.68 --> 3281.02] with Jesus Christ. -[3281.02 --> 3283.20] we live in a world -[3283.20 --> 3284.14] and we live in a place -[3284.14 --> 3285.38] where the two -[3285.38 --> 3286.82] seemingly greatest -[3286.82 --> 3287.74] temptations -[3287.74 --> 3289.24] are comfort -[3289.24 --> 3291.82] and power. -[3293.32 --> 3294.08] Now those might -[3294.08 --> 3294.60] look differently -[3294.60 --> 3295.04] for you. -[3295.14 --> 3295.54] You might have -[3295.54 --> 3296.26] a different definition -[3296.26 --> 3296.82] of comfort -[3296.82 --> 3297.88] than is over here -[3297.88 --> 3298.42] and you might have -[3298.42 --> 3299.44] a definition of power -[3299.44 --> 3300.14] or accomplishment -[3300.14 --> 3300.76] or status -[3300.76 --> 3301.94] than what's over here -[3301.94 --> 3302.82] but ultimately -[3302.82 --> 3304.16] comfort and power -[3304.16 --> 3305.02] are on offer -[3305.02 --> 3306.46] and Jesus says -[3306.46 --> 3308.84] I will make you -[3308.84 --> 3309.52] uncomfortable -[3309.52 --> 3313.40] and Jesus says -[3313.40 --> 3314.16] power isn't -[3314.16 --> 3314.74] what you think -[3314.74 --> 3315.20] it is. -[3315.92 --> 3316.74] It doesn't look -[3316.74 --> 3317.68] like what you -[3317.68 --> 3318.74] think it looks like. -[3321.10 --> 3322.10] My power -[3322.10 --> 3322.88] is made perfect -[3322.88 --> 3323.72] in weakness -[3323.72 --> 3325.30] says God. -[3326.30 --> 3327.22] The greatest -[3327.22 --> 3328.10] of these -[3328.10 --> 3329.10] must become -[3329.10 --> 3329.72] the least -[3329.72 --> 3331.16] says Jesus. -[3333.56 --> 3334.60] My prayer -[3334.60 --> 3335.68] for us all -[3335.68 --> 3337.18] as we rehearse -[3337.18 --> 3338.10] this story -[3338.10 --> 3339.16] is that we will -[3339.16 --> 3341.08] see that crown -[3341.08 --> 3341.82] of glory -[3341.82 --> 3342.80] and that we will -[3342.80 --> 3343.68] see the Lord -[3343.68 --> 3344.48] Jesus Christ -[3344.48 --> 3345.20] that risen -[3345.20 --> 3345.96] lamb -[3345.96 --> 3347.18] and we will -[3347.18 --> 3348.74] press towards him -[3348.74 --> 3349.78] come what may -[3349.78 --> 3350.98] as we daily -[3350.98 --> 3352.34] take up our -[3352.34 --> 3353.12] cross -[3353.12 --> 3353.82] and follow -[3353.82 --> 3354.74] him. -[3356.42 --> 3356.96] Kingship -[3356.96 --> 3358.04] rightly belongs -[3358.04 --> 3359.00] to Jesus -[3359.00 --> 3361.52] but having Jesus -[3361.52 --> 3362.20] as your king -[3362.20 --> 3363.64] means your life -[3363.64 --> 3364.24] is going to look -[3364.24 --> 3365.14] a little bit different -[3365.14 --> 3366.78] than everyone else -[3366.78 --> 3368.10] who doesn't -[3368.10 --> 3368.60] yet know -[3368.60 --> 3369.46] who Jesus -[3369.46 --> 3369.88] is. -[3370.92 --> 3371.50] And that's -[3371.50 --> 3372.30] why we enter -[3372.30 --> 3373.28] into this -[3373.28 --> 3374.04] story -[3374.04 --> 3374.88] again -[3374.88 --> 3375.82] and again -[3375.82 --> 3376.68] and again -[3376.68 --> 3377.94] so that we -[3377.94 --> 3378.74] can be grounded -[3378.74 --> 3379.96] in the truth -[3379.96 --> 3381.30] and in the person -[3381.30 --> 3382.08] of Jesus -[3382.08 --> 3382.96] and so that we -[3382.96 --> 3383.90] together can be -[3383.90 --> 3385.30] filled with his -[3385.30 --> 3386.04] Holy Spirit -[3386.04 --> 3386.86] so that we -[3386.86 --> 3388.34] may endure. -[3389.40 --> 3390.34] I pray -[3390.34 --> 3391.04] that you -[3391.04 --> 3392.20] will endure -[3392.20 --> 3393.24] together. -[3393.98 --> 3394.26] Amen? -[3394.26 --> 3394.40] Amen. -[3396.32 --> 3396.92] Let's stand -[3396.92 --> 3397.70] as we pray. -[3402.34 --> 3403.38] Lord Jesus -[3403.38 --> 3405.06] move in -[3405.06 --> 3405.60] us -[3405.60 --> 3406.38] by your -[3406.38 --> 3406.86] spirit. -[3407.98 --> 3408.94] Move in -[3408.94 --> 3409.34] us -[3409.34 --> 3409.70] with -[3409.70 --> 3410.58] your -[3410.58 --> 3411.44] Holy Spirit -[3411.44 --> 3412.10] power -[3412.10 --> 3413.06] comforting -[3413.06 --> 3413.84] us -[3413.84 --> 3415.14] even as -[3415.14 --> 3415.58] you make -[3415.58 --> 3415.82] us -[3415.82 --> 3416.46] uncomfortable. -[3418.86 --> 3419.58] Move -[3419.58 --> 3420.48] in us -[3420.48 --> 3421.80] with a -[3421.80 --> 3422.32] newness -[3422.32 --> 3423.04] of life -[3423.04 --> 3424.06] even as -[3424.06 --> 3425.36] we face -[3425.36 --> 3426.04] death -[3426.04 --> 3427.10] all day. -[3428.60 --> 3429.18] Move in -[3429.18 --> 3429.54] us -[3429.54 --> 3430.02] with a -[3430.02 --> 3430.86] power -[3430.86 --> 3432.08] unimaginable -[3432.08 --> 3432.70] and a -[3432.70 --> 3433.18] love -[3433.18 --> 3434.40] incomprehensible -[3434.40 --> 3436.26] so that as -[3436.26 --> 3436.90] we go -[3436.90 --> 3437.94] from this -[3437.94 --> 3438.42] place -[3438.42 --> 3439.04] we might -[3439.04 --> 3439.46] go -[3439.46 --> 3440.70] nourished -[3440.70 --> 3441.44] and sustained -[3441.44 --> 3441.90] that we -[3441.90 --> 3442.42] might go -[3442.42 --> 3443.24] buoyed -[3443.24 --> 3443.82] in our -[3443.82 --> 3444.38] lives -[3444.38 --> 3444.96] of faith -[3444.96 --> 3446.30] that we -[3446.30 --> 3446.86] might go -[3446.86 --> 3447.56] such that -[3447.56 --> 3447.98] we can -[3447.98 --> 3448.42] daily -[3448.42 --> 3449.08] take up -[3449.08 --> 3449.74] our cross -[3449.74 --> 3450.62] and follow -[3450.62 --> 3451.70] after you. -[3453.04 --> 3455.16] if we -[3455.16 --> 3455.52] endure -[3455.52 --> 3456.10] with him -[3456.10 --> 3456.94] we will -[3456.94 --> 3457.38] also -[3457.38 --> 3457.98] reign -[3457.98 --> 3458.76] with him. -[3460.46 --> 3461.20] And so -[3461.20 --> 3461.76] Lord Jesus -[3461.76 --> 3463.58] draw us -[3463.58 --> 3464.48] to your -[3464.48 --> 3465.54] victor's -[3465.54 --> 3466.12] crown. -[3466.12 --> 3467.62] Amen. -[3483.04 --> 3495.20] death -[3495.20 --> 3496.62] and -[3496.62 --> 3499.04] remember -[3499.04 --> 3499.38] I -[3499.38 --> 3507.38] I've spent the day with the presence of Jesus as a ring. -[3507.38 --> 3517.38] And wonder how he could love me, a sinner that loved me. -[3517.38 --> 3527.38] Sing, how marvelous, how wonderful that my song shall ever be. -[3527.38 --> 3538.38] How marvelous, how wonderful is my Savior's love for me. -[3538.38 --> 3550.38] He took my sins and my sorrows, He made them very whole. -[3550.38 --> 3560.38] And he poured the word into Calvary, Unsuffered and died alone. -[3560.38 --> 3570.38] Sing, how marvelous, how wonderful that my song shall ever be. -[3570.38 --> 3581.38] How marvelous, how wonderful is my Savior's love for me. -[3581.38 --> 3593.38] And in the ransomed in glory, His face that I shall see. -[3593.38 --> 3602.38] And will be my Lord in the angels to sing of His love for me. -[3602.38 --> 3612.38] Sing, how marvelous, how wonderful that my song shall ever be. -[3612.38 --> 3621.38] Sing, how marvelous, how wonderful is my Savior's love for me. -[3621.38 --> 3633.38] Sing, how marvelous, how wonderful that my song shall ever be. -[3633.38 --> 3645.38] How marvelous, how wonderful is my Savior's love for me. -[3651.38 --> 3661.38] They were looking up intently into the sky as He was going, -[3661.38 --> 3665.38] when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. -[3665.38 --> 3669.38] Men of Galilee, they said, why do you stand here looking into the sky? -[3669.38 --> 3675.38] This same Jesus who has been taken from you into heaven will come back -[3675.38 --> 3680.38] in the same way that you have seen Him go into heaven. -[3680.38 --> 3685.38] This is our greatest hope yet. -[3685.38 --> 3689.38] That this same Jesus will come back. -[3689.38 --> 3695.38] Until that day we go from here with God and so receive His blessing. -[3695.38 --> 3699.38] May God go before you to prepare a way for you. -[3699.38 --> 3701.38] May God go behind you to protect you. -[3701.38 --> 3704.38] May God go beneath you to support you. -[3704.38 --> 3707.38] And may God go beside you to befriend you. -[3707.38 --> 3709.38] Do not be afraid. -[3709.38 --> 3711.38] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[3711.38 --> 3713.38] Do not be afraid. -[3713.38 --> 3718.38] Go in peace to love and serve your King. -[3718.38 --> 3720.38] All God's people said, Amen. -[3720.38 --> 3721.38] Amen. -[3721.38 --> 3722.38] Amen. -[3722.38 --> 3723.38] Amen. -[3723.38 --> 3736.38] Amen. -[3736.38 --> 3761.38] Unto the King eternal, unto the King immortal, unto the King invisible, the only white child. -[3761.38 --> 3768.38] The only white child. -[3771.38 --> 3789.38] Now unto the King eternal, unto the King immortal, unto the King immortal, unto the King invisible, -[3789.38 --> 3796.38] the only white child. -[3796.38 --> 3802.38] The only white child. -[3802.38 --> 3817.38] Now unto the King, be glory and honor, unto the King forever. -[3817.38 --> 3824.38] Unto the King be glory and honor forever. -[3824.38 --> 3826.38] Amen. -[3826.38 --> 3827.38] Amen. -[3827.38 --> 3829.38] Amen. -[3829.38 --> 3839.38] Amen. -[3839.38 --> 3844.38] Amen. -[3844.38 --> 3849.38] Amen. -[3849.38 --> 3852.18] Amen. -[3879.38 --> 3880.38] Yes. -[3909.38 --> 3910.38] Amen. diff --git a/Christmas Choir - December 18, 2022_summary.txt b/Christmas Choir - December 18, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3914b49b8f0f625b8e55d11f22080f2e5a5bd2fe..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Christmas Choir - December 18, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,65 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction and welcome by Pastor Chris -• Explanation of the evening's format for Christmas praise service -• Prayer led by Pastor Chris to open the service in worship -• Singing of carols and hymns, including "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" -• Praise and worship continued with repetition of "Emmanuel" refrain -• Emmanuel is mentioned repeatedly -• Righteousness and faithfulness are associated with God/Messiah -• Prophecy about Israel's restoration and freedom from captivity -• God's promise to save Jacob/Israel and bring peace and security -• Oath of obedience to the Lord, referencing Abraham and covenant -• Annunciation story: angel Gabriel visits Mary, announcing Jesus' birth -• The Lord God promises to give Mary's son the throne of David and his kingdom will never end. -• Mary is visited by Elizabeth, who is also pregnant with John the Baptist, and Elizabeth praises Mary for her faith. -• The Holy Spirit descends upon Mary and she gives birth to Jesus. -• Elizabeth prophesies that Mary's child is a son and will be called "the Son of God". -• A passage praising God's power and mercy, including the promise to help his servant Israel and remembering mercy to Abraham and his descendants. -• The Savior comes, promised by God, and will bring joy and release from Satan's body. -• Isaiah's prophecy about the coming of the Lord -• The fleeting nature of human existence and faithfulness compared to God's enduring word -• Call to proclaim good news to Zion and Jerusalem, and not to be afraid -• Description of God as a shepherd who tends to his flock with care and gentleness -• References to Christmas traditions, including music, family time, watching movies, and reading stories, specifically A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens -• The Ghost of Christmas Past and its accusatory effect on Ebenezer Scrooge -• The introduction of the Ghost of Christmas Present, a jolly giant with a kind heart -• The description of the Ghost's appearance, including a bare chest and an antique scabbard without a sword -• Comparison between the Ghost of Christmas Present and Jesus Christ, highlighting their shared qualities such as generosity, love, and welcoming nature -• Reference to biblical texts (John 1:14 and Revelation 14) describing Jesus' glory and crown of gold -• Literary critics have debated the allegory in Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" -• The novel is set against the backdrop of a mid-Victorian revival of Christmas celebrations in England -• The Christmas Spirit shows Scrooge people who have much less than he does, yet are content and at peace -• This challenges Scrooge's own view that wealth and material possessions lead to happiness -• The novel highlights the importance of finding peace and contentment during the busy holiday season -• Christmas present or gift, referred to as "the ghost of Christmas present" -• Description of an antique scabbard without a sword -• Isaiah 2 passage about judging between nations and settling disputes -• Jesus' birth and government on his shoulders -• The true peace that comes from knowing Jesus -• The birth of Jesus is described -• Mary's knowledge and reaction to her son's significance -• An angel appears to shepherds near Bethlehem, announcing Jesus' birth as a savior -• Heavenly host praise God and sing about Jesus as the new born King -• Various hymns and carols are referenced or sung -• Discussion of Christmas carols and hymns -• The birth of Jesus Christ -• The shepherds visiting the baby Jesus in Bethlehem -• Praise and worship of God's glory, love, and righteousness -• Themes of redemption, joy, and peace -• Celebration of the arrival of Jesus as the newborn King -• Christmas medley performance -• Thanking the choir and kids for their participation -• Acknowledging Mark's efforts in organizing the service -• Invitation to refreshments after the service -• Promotion of upcoming Christmas Day worship service -• Reading from Numbers 6, offering a blessing -• Expressions of gratitude and appreciation to attendees -• Discussion of the blessing and power of God -• References to biblical figures and events, including Christ, Jesus, angels, and the Holy Spirit -• Recitation of Christmas carols, specifically "Silent Night" and "O Holy Night" -• Expressions of devotion and worship, including requests for guidance, protection, and mercy -• Discussion of spiritual concepts, such as the power of prayer and the importance of faith -• Discussion of love and gospel -• Reference to James being brave, warm, and a brother to all -• Mention of praise and worship to God's holy name -• Choral performance with repetition of phrases about love, glory, and praise -• Expression of gratitude from the choir to Mark for his hard work \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Christmas Choir - December 18, 2022_transcript.txt b/Christmas Choir - December 18, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3b3d34890083978ecf26f5094d730611bbc19f43..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Christmas Choir - December 18, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1068 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] We'll be right back. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 122.00] Thank you. -[122.00 --> 127.00] Thank you. -[127.00 --> 131.48] Good evening. -[131.48 --> 133.48] Good evening. -[133.48 --> 135.44] Welcome to Langley Emanuel Church. -[135.44 --> 143.56] We are so excited to have you all here and to host this evening of Christmas praise. -[144.12 --> 150.84] If this is your first time here with us, we are really excited that you've joined us this evening. -[151.02 --> 151.82] My name is Chris. -[152.02 --> 160.94] I'm one of the pastors here, and I would love to connect with you and chat with you, and so you can grab me after the service. -[160.94 --> 163.26] Really, there's a few people wearing name tags. -[163.36 --> 166.22] You can grab any one of them and ask questions. -[167.58 --> 174.00] We imagine there might be a few people yet trickling in, and so, for instance, there's someone over here who sees the person. -[174.10 --> 174.54] There you go. -[174.54 --> 175.54] Welcome. -[175.54 --> 175.70] Welcome. -[175.70 --> 176.70] Welcome. -[176.70 --> 181.74] And as that happens, just be mindful that people might scoot in front or might find a spot there. -[182.26 --> 183.30] We'll let that happen. -[183.98 --> 194.70] This evening, we are celebrating Christmas, and we're going to do that following a sort of modified traditional English lessons and carol service. -[194.70 --> 202.26] And so, there's parts where the choir will lead us, there's parts where you will be invited to sing, and there will be readings that happen throughout. -[202.42 --> 203.88] And so, just follow along. -[204.20 --> 212.56] You are in the hands of our conductor, Mark, and he will take us on a journey of worship and praise this Christmas season together. -[213.30 --> 219.30] Before we begin, I'm going to open in prayer, and then we will start our time together. -[219.78 --> 222.80] Would you join your heart with me as we come together in worship? -[224.70 --> 230.96] Heavenly Father, we come before you on this Christmas season evening. -[230.96 --> 237.12] In the midst of the darkness outside, we see the light here. -[238.86 --> 248.14] As candles push back the darkness, may the coming of the Lord Jesus push back the darkness as well. -[248.14 --> 256.06] Open our eyes and our hearts to encounter you, a living God, tonight. -[256.90 --> 266.52] As we sing familiar songs, as we hear maybe some unfamiliar songs, we pray that in and through it all, you would be glorified. -[267.36 --> 275.02] We give this evening to you in praise of you, our God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. -[275.02 --> 276.80] In Jesus' name we pray. -[277.50 --> 277.88] Amen. -[277.88 --> 277.98] Amen. -[277.98 --> 278.00] Amen. -[278.00 --> 278.02] Amen. -[278.02 --> 278.06] Amen. -[278.06 --> 278.08] Amen. -[278.08 --> 278.12] Amen. -[278.12 --> 278.16] Amen. -[278.16 --> 278.72] Amen. -[280.30 --> 281.54] Amen. -[281.54 --> 282.30] Amen. -[282.30 --> 283.18] Amen. -[283.18 --> 284.24] Amen. -[284.24 --> 284.38] Amen. -[284.48 --> 286.18] Amen. -[286.30 --> 287.16] Amen. -[287.16 --> 288.00] Amen. -[288.02 --> 288.24] Amen. -[290.94 --> 292.70] Amen. -[293.96 --> 294.90] Amen. -[294.94 --> 299.18] Amen. -[299.18 --> 303.96] Amen. -[304.96 --> 305.36] Amen. -[305.36 --> 305.98] Amen. -[305.98 --> 306.22] Amen. -[306.22 --> 306.50] joy. -[306.54 --> 307.58] Amen. -[307.58 --> 308.10] MRS. -[308.10 --> 316.86] Oh come in annual -[317.16 --> 322.70] And that's ah day -[328.04 --> 333.54] That might be ah -[338.10 --> 345.30] Until the sun and the cloud appear. -[349.30 --> 358.06] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel. -[358.06 --> 364.40] Now come to the end. -[368.10 --> 378.48] Come, O wisdom from on high. -[379.68 --> 386.92] Who ordered all things by. -[386.92 --> 398.30] To us the path of knowledge. -[398.30 --> 409.68] And he chose in his ways to go. -[409.68 --> 422.06] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel. -[422.06 --> 428.44] Now come to me away. -[428.44 --> 432.44] It's my God. -[432.44 --> 439.44] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel. -[439.44 --> 450.82] Emmanuel, shall come to me away. -[450.82 --> 464.20] Emmanuel, Emmanuel. -[464.20 --> 468.20] Wonderful counselor. -[468.20 --> 471.20] Lord of life, Lord of all. -[471.20 --> 476.58] He is the Prince of Peace, mighty God, holy one. -[476.58 --> 481.58] Emmanuel, Emmanuel. -[481.58 --> 487.58] Emmanuel, Emmanuel. -[487.58 --> 491.58] Emmanuel, Emmanuel. -[491.58 --> 493.58] Wonderful counselor. -[493.58 --> 495.58] Lord of life, Lord of all. -[495.58 --> 503.96] He is the Prince of Peace, mighty God, holy one. -[503.96 --> 506.96] Emmanuel, Emmanuel. -[506.96 --> 508.96] Emmanuel, Emmanuel. -[508.96 --> 521.34] Emmanuel, Emmanuel. -[521.34 --> 526.34] Emmanuel, Emmanuel. -[526.34 --> 528.20] Emmanuel. -[528.20 --> 529.72] Emmanuel, Emmanuel. -[529.72 --> 535.72] Evangelhov for me. -[536.10 --> 545.22] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel. -[546.72 --> 547.46] Shalom. -[547.46 --> 548.96] Emmanuel. -[548.96 --> 559.96] O come, O bright and morning star, And bring us comfort from afar. -[559.96 --> 571.96] Dispel the shadows of the night, And turn our darkness into light. -[571.96 --> 586.96] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel Shall come to thee, O Israel. -[586.96 --> 614.96] Emmanuel, Emmanuel, Emmanuel Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel Shall come to thee, O Israel. -[614.96 --> 634.96] Emmanuel Emmanuel Emmanuel Emmanuel Emmanuel Emmanuel Emmanuel Emmanuel Emmanuel Emmanuel Emmanuel Emmanuel Emmanuel Emmanuel Emmanuel Emmanuel Emmanuel Emmanuel.\ -[644.96 --> 645.96] Amen. -[674.96 --> 675.96] Amen. -[704.96 --> 710.32] Righteousness will be his belt, and faithfulness the sash around his waist. -[710.32 --> 711.32] Amen. -[734.96 --> 736.96] Amen. -[764.96 --> 769.44] Amen. -[769.44 --> 771.00] Amen. -[771.00 --> 773.20] Amen. -[773.20 --> 776.10] Amen. -[776.10 --> 779.70] Amen. -[779.70 --> 782.92] Amen. -[782.92 --> 788.06] Amen. -[788.06 --> 789.32] Amen. -[789.32 --> 791.82] Amen. -[791.82 --> 792.46] Amen. -[792.46 --> 793.18] Amen. -[793.18 --> 794.68] Amen. -[794.68 --> 820.44] Real -[824.68 --> 834.68] Come, Messiah, we long to see your face. -[834.68 --> 848.68] O come, Messiah, come. -[848.68 --> 868.68] O come, divine Messiah, come, Messiah, come. -[868.68 --> 885.30] The days are coming, declared the Lord, when I will bring my people, Israel and Judah, back from captivity and restore them to the land I gave their ancestors to possess. -[885.30 --> 903.30] In that day I will break the yoke off their necks and will tear off their bonds. No longer will foreigners enslave them. Instead, they will serve the Lord their God, David their king, whom I will raise up for them. -[903.30 --> 925.56] So do not fear, O Jacob, my servant. Do not be dismayed, O Israel. I will surely save you out of a distant place, your descendants from the land of their exile. Jacob will again have peace and security, and no one will make him afraid. I am with you and will save you, declared the Lord. -[933.30 --> 959.30] O God of Israel, who comes to serve us free. -[959.30 --> 960.30] I know you and have a man who comes to the полез of what you have done. -[960.30 --> 962.30] loung. -[962.30 --> 965.30] mon interviewed -[965.30 --> 967.30] There is no one and few spirituallyрез islanders. -[967.30 --> 968.30] I am hismate. -[968.30 --> 970.30] I am his Garrett in King. -[970.30 --> 972.02] Maria is the three to Torres St. -[972.02 --> 973.02] Pelosi's steel. -[973.02 --> 974.30] I give him the four of the stars to make his name. -[974.82 --> 976.02] man by his Caitlin Hughes, Pet. -[976.02 --> 977.70] Who comes to his breathtaking Siob in his name. -[977.70 --> 979.70] What is it? -[979.70 --> 980.56] Haiti, Peter? -[981.78 --> 983.12] A human, a human being. -[983.12 --> 984.84] Zaal, very importantlya's university. -[984.84 --> 986.24] What are they opening!!! -[986.24 --> 986.88] In he could, for his mission to his members, -[986.88 --> 987.56] One Hai, shaped a sport of our nakas, -[987.56 --> 988.54] Rumble in him in joining seller and incredibly hard. -[988.54 --> 996.24] His mercy will not soon, but the covenant we call. -[996.24 --> 1005.84] The oath must warn to Abraham, from walls to save us all. -[1006.38 --> 1014.56] And the oath to the glory, and the good of the praise. -[1014.56 --> 1023.30] With holiness and light to His face, to serve the whole world's place. -[1024.16 --> 1033.30] One shall let Father God, the Lord, who have prepared the way. -[1034.10 --> 1042.08] Who shall not be okay, our sin, whose sins eternal stay. -[1042.08 --> 1050.82] The oath shall not be okay, our sin, whose sins eternal stay. -[1051.82 --> 1061.08] The oath of obedience to the Lord, that we have sent to Him. -[1061.08 --> 1070.82] The oath of obedience to the Lord, that we have sent to Him. -[1070.82 --> 1078.56] The oath of obedience to the Lord, that we have sent to Him. -[1078.56 --> 1084.56] The oath of obedience to the Lord, that we have sent to Him. -[1084.56 --> 1092.30] The oath of obedience to the Lord, that we have sent to Him. -[1092.30 --> 1102.04] The oath of obedience to the Lord, that we have sent to Him. -[1102.04 --> 1111.78] The oath of obedience to the Lord, that we have sent to Him. -[1111.78 --> 1120.52] The oath of obedience to the Lord, that we have sent to Him. -[1120.52 --> 1125.52] The oath of obedience to the Lord, that we have sent to Him. -[1125.52 --> 1137.26] The oath of obedience to the Lord, that we have sent to Him. -[1137.26 --> 1139.26] The oath of obedience to the Lord, that we have sent to Him. -[1139.26 --> 1153.00] The oath of obedience to the Lord, that we have sent to Him. -[1153.00 --> 1157.00] The oath of obedience to the Lord, that we have sent to Him. -[1157.00 --> 1160.74] The oath of obedience to the Lord, that we have sent to Him. -[1160.74 --> 1161.18] The oath of obedience to the Lord, that we have sent to Him. -[1161.18 --> 1168.58] In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, -[1168.82 --> 1173.90] to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. -[1174.50 --> 1176.04] The virgin's name was Mary. -[1180.00 --> 1181.88] Do not be afraid. -[1182.08 --> 1182.38] Who? -[1183.14 --> 1184.34] Do not be afraid. -[1184.34 --> 1187.68] You who are heavenly favored. -[1187.68 --> 1190.04] The Lord is with you. -[1192.04 --> 1198.08] Mary was greatly troubled at his words, and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. -[1198.66 --> 1200.30] But the angel said to her, -[1201.42 --> 1205.42] Do not be afraid, Mary. -[1205.98 --> 1211.68] You have found favor with God. -[1211.68 --> 1224.44] You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him the name Jesus. -[1224.44 --> 1233.04] He will be great and will be called the son of the most high. -[1233.04 --> 1248.48] The Lord God will give him the throne of his father, David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob. -[1248.88 --> 1252.70] Forever his kingdom will never end. -[1252.70 --> 1257.84] How can this be since I am a virgin? -[1257.84 --> 1265.70] The Holy Spirit will come upon you. -[1266.12 --> 1272.30] You and the power of the most high will overshadow you. -[1272.30 --> 1281.64] So the Holy One to be born will be called the son of God. -[1281.64 --> 1291.66] Even Elizabeth, your relative, is going to have a child in her old age. -[1291.66 --> 1311.84] And she who was said to be born and barren, she is in her six months, where no word from God will forever fail. -[1311.84 --> 1316.20] I am the Lord's servant. -[1316.60 --> 1318.56] May your word to me be fulfilled. -[1320.76 --> 1326.50] At that time, Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill, country of Judea, -[1326.92 --> 1330.20] where she entered Zachariah's home and greeted Elizabeth. -[1331.12 --> 1335.28] When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby was in her womb, -[1335.80 --> 1338.34] and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. -[1338.86 --> 1340.56] In a loud voice, she explained, -[1341.84 --> 1347.38] Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear. -[1349.00 --> 1355.14] But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? -[1355.14 --> 1360.34] As soon as the sound of your greetings reached my ears, -[1360.82 --> 1366.18] the baby in my womb leaped for joy. -[1366.18 --> 1376.80] Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promise to her. -[1378.16 --> 1380.28] My soul glorifies the Lord. -[1396.18 --> 1415.34] And we fall of innocence, carrying the Holy Prince. -[1415.34 --> 1416.98] You are almost there. -[1416.98 --> 1417.96] You're almost there. -[1418.72 --> 1421.82] You're almost there. -[1422.62 --> 1429.40] Mother of the living word, trusting in the voice you heard. -[1429.64 --> 1431.90] We're almost there. -[1432.96 --> 1434.98] We're almost there. -[1434.98 --> 1439.14] You're almost there. -[1439.48 --> 1442.66] The angels seek. -[1443.14 --> 1445.74] Redemption's plan. -[1446.14 --> 1448.62] Uncoding. -[1449.74 --> 1452.68] All hope is in. -[1452.68 --> 1455.90] The sun you'll bear. -[1456.26 --> 1460.72] You're almost there. -[1464.98 --> 1470.16] Hope before the willing heart. -[1470.18 --> 1473.36] We're forsake to do your part. -[1473.50 --> 1475.24] You're almost there. -[1476.46 --> 1479.56] You're almost there. -[1479.56 --> 1483.56] Trust the Father to provide. -[1483.76 --> 1486.74] Bread of heaven from this time. -[1487.02 --> 1489.62] You're almost there. -[1490.04 --> 1492.78] You're almost there. -[1492.78 --> 1496.18] You're almost there. -[1496.48 --> 1499.90] The waiting ends. -[1500.32 --> 1505.78] Delivering the life within. -[1505.78 --> 1508.78] The answered prayer. -[1509.78 --> 1511.78] Emmanuel. -[1513.40 --> 1517.78] You're almost there. -[1517.78 --> 1518.78] You're almost there. -[1518.78 --> 1521.78] You're almost there. -[1521.78 --> 1522.78] You're almost there. -[1522.78 --> 1524.78] The journey ends. -[1524.78 --> 1530.78] Where death will die and life begins. -[1530.78 --> 1533.78] The answered prayer. -[1533.78 --> 1534.78] The answer prayer. -[1534.78 --> 1535.78] Emmanuel. -[1535.78 --> 1536.78] Almost. -[1536.78 --> 1537.78] Almost there. -[1537.78 --> 1544.68] You're almost there. -[1544.78 --> 1548.98] You are anyway. -[1548.98 --> 1553.38] You're almost there. -[1555.28 --> 1556.88] You're almost there. -[1556.88 --> 1579.26] You're almost with the waiting end, delivering the life within. -[1579.26 --> 1591.14] The answer prayer, Emmanuel, you're almost there. -[1591.88 --> 1604.72] You're almost there, your journey ends, where death will die and life begins. -[1604.72 --> 1620.72] The answer prayer, Emmanuel, you're almost there. -[1620.72 --> 1634.72] The answer prayer, Emmanuel, you're almost there. -[1634.72 --> 1664.70] The answer prayer, Emmanuel, you're almost there. -[1664.70 --> 1669.08] He has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. -[1669.52 --> 1673.10] He has brought down rulers from their thrones, but has lifted up the humble. -[1673.68 --> 1677.76] He has filled the hungry with good things, but has sent the rich away empty. -[1678.36 --> 1687.12] He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, -[1687.48 --> 1689.10] just as he promised our ancestors. -[1689.10 --> 1695.10] He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, -[1695.10 --> 1696.10] and has sent the rich away empty. -[1696.10 --> 1706.10] He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, -[1706.10 --> 1711.10] and has sent the rich away empty. -[1711.10 --> 1725.10] The Savior comes, the Savior promised all. -[1725.10 --> 1738.10] Let every heart prepare to call, and every joy shall come. -[1738.10 --> 1751.10] But the presence will release in Satan's body to know. -[1751.10 --> 1765.10] The gates of cross before he burst, the iron fetters lead. -[1765.10 --> 1777.10] He comes, the broken heart to mine, the moon bears gold to him. -[1777.10 --> 1789.10] In that treasure, tell his grace, the great is the wonderful Lord. -[1789.10 --> 1801.10] For that Hosanna's grace of peace, your crown shall proclaim. -[1801.10 --> 1813.10] In that eternal gorgeous way, in glory thou may. -[1813.10 --> 1825.10] In that eternal glory, in glory thou may. -[1825.10 --> 1827.10] Amen. -[1827.10 --> 1829.10] Amen. -[1829.10 --> 1831.10] Amen. -[1831.10 --> 1833.10] Amen. -[1833.10 --> 1839.10] A voice of one calling, in the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord. -[1839.10 --> 1842.10] Make straight in the desert a highway for our God. -[1842.10 --> 1846.10] Every valley shall be raised up. -[1846.10 --> 1848.10] Every mountain and hill made low. -[1848.10 --> 1850.10] The rough places of plain. -[1850.10 --> 1853.10] The glory of the Lord will be revealed. -[1853.10 --> 1856.10] And all the people will see it together. -[1856.10 --> 1859.10] For the mouth of the Lord has spoken. -[1859.10 --> 1862.10] A voice says, cry out. -[1862.10 --> 1864.10] And I said, what shall I cry? -[1864.10 --> 1865.10] All people are like grass. -[1865.10 --> 1869.10] And their faithfulness is like the flowers of a field. -[1869.10 --> 1874.10] Their grass withers and the flowers fall because the breath of the Lord blows on them. -[1874.10 --> 1876.10] Surely the people are grass. -[1876.10 --> 1882.10] Their grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord endures forever. -[1882.10 --> 1888.10] You who bring good tidings to Zion, go up on a high mountain. -[1888.10 --> 1893.10] You who bring good tidings to Jerusalem, lift up your voice with a shout. -[1893.10 --> 1894.10] Lift it up. -[1894.10 --> 1895.10] Do not be afraid. -[1895.10 --> 1900.10] Say to the towns of Judah, here is your God. -[1902.10 --> 1907.10] See the sovereign Lord comes with power, and he rules with a mighty arm. -[1907.10 --> 1911.10] See his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him. -[1911.10 --> 1913.10] He tends to his flock like a shepherd. -[1913.10 --> 1917.10] He gathers the lambs in his arms, and carries them close to his heart. -[1917.10 --> 1919.10] He leads those that have young. -[1941.10 --> 1946.10] He leads those 알 2007-го Treasure Island habíafigure -[1946.10 --> 1949.10] Lots of collaborators from all America to live in Egypt, and brings children through the glass. -[1949.10 --> 1950.10] Same time. -[1950.10 --> 1952.10] You who prescribing God came. -[1952.10 --> 1958.74] Let's get to the거� Kraut made of the -[1959.10 --> 1963.10] Museum from beautiful Gain. -[1964.10 --> 1965.10] 1 -[1965.10 --> 1966.10] 0 -[1966.10 --> 1978.04] A -[1978.04 --> 1990.44] Honey -[2008.04 --> 2014.04] of faith rise up and sing of the great and glorious -[2014.04 --> 2028.04] way you are strong when you feel weak in your brokenness -[2028.04 --> 2042.04] and the west -[2044.04 --> 2052.12] come -[2055.24 --> 2058.04] of -[2058.04 --> 2064.26] Shout to the north and the south -[2064.26 --> 2068.06] Sing to the east and the west -[2068.06 --> 2071.96] Jesus is Savior to all -[2071.96 --> 2075.56] Lord of heaven and earth -[2075.56 --> 2079.30] Shout to the north and the south -[2079.30 --> 2083.06] Sing to the east and the west -[2083.06 --> 2087.02] Jesus is Savior to all -[2087.02 --> 2094.44] Lord of heaven and earth -[2094.44 --> 2100.00] Prepare ye the way, the way of the Lord -[2100.00 --> 2107.68] Prepare ye the way, the way of the Lord -[2107.68 --> 2113.50] Prepare ye the way, the way of the Lord -[2117.02 --> 2142.12] We mentioned at the beginning of our time together -[2142.12 --> 2146.62] that this service is shaped on a traditional English lessons -[2146.62 --> 2147.78] and carols service. -[2148.58 --> 2152.98] And I was struck just now reflecting on the different family traditions -[2152.98 --> 2155.52] that exist around Christmas time -[2155.52 --> 2160.64] or the songs that some of us so quickly and readily associate with Christmas. -[2160.86 --> 2164.60] Maybe we have sung them already tonight or we will yet. -[2166.34 --> 2169.36] And the different ways that those traditions -[2169.36 --> 2174.50] or the different ways that different things communicate those traditions. -[2174.50 --> 2178.48] My son, who is seven, just leaned over to Rachel and I. -[2178.58 --> 2181.86] He said, oh, that music sounds like the carousel -[2181.86 --> 2184.70] because the organ was playing. -[2184.90 --> 2189.66] And he associates the organ with a carousel that we used to have near our house. -[2190.18 --> 2193.46] But some of you are like, oh, this music finally sounds like heaven -[2193.46 --> 2195.26] because the organ is playing. -[2195.52 --> 2196.90] And that's what you associate. -[2196.90 --> 2200.70] We all have different traditions around these things. -[2201.96 --> 2206.14] One of the traditions as well that so many people have -[2206.14 --> 2211.60] is watching Christmas movies or reading Christmas stories together. -[2212.04 --> 2214.04] Again, my kids just watched Elf. -[2214.14 --> 2217.86] That has become a Christmas tradition for some people. -[2217.86 --> 2222.42] Another Christmas tradition is the story, -[2222.66 --> 2225.98] A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. -[2226.46 --> 2227.80] If you're familiar with that story -[2227.80 --> 2231.12] or with one of the many ways that story has been retold -[2231.12 --> 2232.78] in the past little while. -[2233.04 --> 2234.60] In fact, there's even a new one -[2234.60 --> 2237.46] with Ryan Reynolds and Will Ferrell, Spirited, -[2237.56 --> 2238.66] that's about that as well. -[2239.14 --> 2242.36] It is a story about a man named Scrooge, -[2242.46 --> 2243.72] Ebenezer Scrooge, -[2243.72 --> 2249.40] who is visited by the ghost of his former business partner -[2249.40 --> 2255.94] and then by three ghosts or spirits or phantoms or phantasms, -[2256.04 --> 2257.18] if you read it in the original, -[2257.66 --> 2260.52] of Christmas past, Christmas present, -[2261.02 --> 2262.88] and Christmas yet to come. -[2263.92 --> 2266.52] Now, Scrooge, you know the story, right, -[2266.56 --> 2268.26] is a curmudgeonly old man -[2268.26 --> 2272.30] and A Christmas Carol is his journey of change. -[2272.30 --> 2275.58] So the first ghost appears to him -[2275.58 --> 2278.24] and is the ghost of Christmas past -[2278.24 --> 2280.76] and takes him into his past. -[2281.36 --> 2284.50] A time before he was corrupted -[2284.50 --> 2286.94] by all the trappings of wealth and business -[2286.94 --> 2289.52] that had turned him into the man that he was. -[2289.96 --> 2292.46] And when he sees his past -[2292.46 --> 2294.46] and the good circumstances -[2294.46 --> 2296.80] and the good people of his past, -[2297.02 --> 2301.30] it actually functions for him like an accusation, right? -[2301.30 --> 2303.58] It's a voice of accusation -[2303.58 --> 2305.54] against the man that he had become. -[2306.26 --> 2309.56] And the weight of that accusing past -[2309.56 --> 2313.56] presses so heavily down on him -[2313.56 --> 2315.24] that he gets really angry -[2315.24 --> 2316.88] at the ghost of Christmas past -[2316.88 --> 2319.02] and demands that the spirit take him -[2319.02 --> 2320.66] back to his house, -[2321.46 --> 2322.10] to his bed. -[2322.10 --> 2326.20] What interests me tonight -[2326.20 --> 2327.92] is the second spirit, -[2328.60 --> 2329.88] the ghost of Christmas present -[2329.88 --> 2331.66] that appears to him. -[2332.68 --> 2335.54] Now, this ghost of Christmas present, -[2335.76 --> 2337.36] the way Dickens writes it, -[2338.06 --> 2341.78] is a jolly giant, glorious to see. -[2342.44 --> 2344.54] His eyes were clear and kind. -[2345.42 --> 2346.48] His feet are bare, -[2346.58 --> 2348.62] and then I love the way he writes this. -[2348.62 --> 2349.62] He says, -[2350.20 --> 2352.46] its capacious chest was bare -[2352.46 --> 2354.84] as if disdaining to be warded -[2354.84 --> 2357.02] or concealed by any artifice. -[2358.32 --> 2359.54] And I think what that means -[2359.54 --> 2360.48] is that his heart, -[2360.66 --> 2362.16] or the ghost's heart, -[2362.30 --> 2364.48] is on display for all to see -[2364.48 --> 2366.48] and that there is a generous love -[2366.48 --> 2367.72] that is just oozing out, -[2367.82 --> 2369.34] that is unwilling to be guarded -[2369.34 --> 2371.12] or unwilling to be hid away. -[2372.64 --> 2374.06] Dickens goes on, he says, -[2374.06 --> 2376.78] on its head it wore no other covering -[2376.78 --> 2378.26] than a holly wreath -[2378.26 --> 2379.90] set here and there -[2379.90 --> 2381.76] with shining icicles. -[2382.44 --> 2384.06] It's a sort of Christmas crown -[2384.06 --> 2386.02] that sits upon its head. -[2386.12 --> 2386.84] And then finally, -[2387.44 --> 2388.94] girded round its middle -[2388.94 --> 2390.98] was an antique scabbard. -[2391.38 --> 2392.92] It's a sword sheath. -[2393.42 --> 2395.00] But no sword was in it, -[2395.38 --> 2396.60] and the ancient sheath -[2396.60 --> 2399.04] was eaten up with rust. -[2399.04 --> 2402.42] Now, I love this description -[2402.42 --> 2404.52] of the ghost of Christmas present -[2404.52 --> 2406.44] because I can't but help -[2406.44 --> 2409.70] but hear something of Jesus within it. -[2410.42 --> 2410.56] Right? -[2410.68 --> 2414.66] Jesus, who is himself glorious to see. -[2415.48 --> 2417.84] John says in chapter 1, -[2419.20 --> 2419.50] says, -[2419.66 --> 2422.26] we have seen his glory, -[2422.40 --> 2424.66] the glory of the one and only Son -[2424.66 --> 2426.04] who came from the Father -[2426.04 --> 2428.88] full of grace and truth. -[2429.04 --> 2432.58] Jesus, -[2433.30 --> 2434.72] whose eyes -[2434.72 --> 2438.24] look into prostitutes, -[2438.78 --> 2440.12] into outcasts, -[2440.28 --> 2442.70] into sinners and rejects, -[2443.70 --> 2446.36] and as they look into his eyes, -[2446.50 --> 2447.16] they see -[2447.16 --> 2448.94] a love -[2448.94 --> 2450.52] and a heart -[2450.52 --> 2451.80] for them. -[2452.56 --> 2453.62] Jesus, whose heart -[2453.62 --> 2455.66] was open to welcoming children, -[2455.76 --> 2456.74] even though there were people -[2456.74 --> 2457.76] actively in his life -[2457.76 --> 2459.14] trying to push them away -[2459.14 --> 2460.28] and keep them separated. -[2460.70 --> 2461.46] Jesus, too, -[2461.60 --> 2462.66] who is crowned -[2462.66 --> 2463.70] with glory -[2463.70 --> 2464.76] and honor. -[2465.58 --> 2466.44] Here at Emmanuel, -[2466.62 --> 2467.40] we are looking -[2467.40 --> 2468.64] in the book of Revelation -[2468.64 --> 2469.48] throughout Advent -[2469.48 --> 2470.02] and Christmas, -[2470.18 --> 2471.02] and there's a text -[2471.02 --> 2472.52] in Revelation 14, -[2472.80 --> 2473.46] verse 14, -[2473.56 --> 2473.78] that says, -[2473.86 --> 2474.28] I looked, -[2474.40 --> 2475.30] and there before me -[2475.30 --> 2476.26] was a white cloud, -[2476.56 --> 2477.72] and seated on the cloud -[2477.72 --> 2479.54] was one like the Son of Man -[2479.54 --> 2481.04] with a crown of gold -[2481.04 --> 2482.16] on his head. -[2482.16 --> 2483.76] Now, -[2483.88 --> 2484.60] let me be clear, -[2484.74 --> 2485.82] I'm not trying to say -[2485.82 --> 2486.82] that Dickens -[2486.82 --> 2488.42] is saying -[2488.42 --> 2489.14] that there is a -[2489.14 --> 2490.48] one-to-one correspondence -[2490.48 --> 2491.24] with the ghost -[2491.24 --> 2492.58] of Christmas present -[2492.58 --> 2494.12] or the spirit -[2494.12 --> 2495.20] and Jesus, -[2495.20 --> 2496.30] but there is something -[2496.30 --> 2497.64] of an allegory here. -[2498.04 --> 2498.18] Now, -[2498.22 --> 2498.90] literary critics -[2498.90 --> 2499.94] and scholars alike -[2499.94 --> 2500.52] have debated -[2500.52 --> 2501.32] back and forth, -[2501.38 --> 2502.04] and I'm not interested -[2502.04 --> 2503.28] in getting into that, -[2503.34 --> 2504.46] but there is a sense, -[2504.94 --> 2506.18] I think you can hear it, -[2506.54 --> 2507.30] a sense -[2507.30 --> 2509.58] in that Dickens -[2509.58 --> 2510.74] is trying to convey -[2510.74 --> 2512.90] a sense of the connection -[2512.90 --> 2513.88] of Christmas -[2513.88 --> 2516.18] to its namesake. -[2516.80 --> 2517.50] That is the connection -[2517.50 --> 2518.26] of the celebration -[2518.26 --> 2519.12] of Christmas -[2519.12 --> 2520.64] to Christ. -[2521.90 --> 2522.62] And when Dickens -[2522.62 --> 2523.16] is writing -[2523.16 --> 2524.78] in the mid-19th century, -[2525.46 --> 2526.86] there's a bit of a revival -[2526.86 --> 2527.60] that's happening -[2527.60 --> 2528.88] in England, -[2529.18 --> 2531.06] a period of discernment. -[2531.94 --> 2532.68] Some have called it -[2532.68 --> 2535.96] a mid-Victorian revival -[2535.96 --> 2536.82] of the Christmas -[2536.82 --> 2537.70] holiday. -[2539.56 --> 2540.50] And as he writes -[2540.50 --> 2542.52] and Dickens puts -[2542.52 --> 2543.86] on Scrooge lips, -[2544.36 --> 2545.76] he asks the spirit -[2545.76 --> 2546.90] of Christmas present -[2546.90 --> 2548.12] how many brothers -[2548.12 --> 2548.88] he has, -[2549.22 --> 2549.88] and the spirit -[2549.88 --> 2550.74] answers him -[2550.74 --> 2551.32] by saying -[2551.32 --> 2552.56] he has more -[2552.56 --> 2554.66] than 1,800 brothers. -[2555.26 --> 2555.56] Again, -[2555.68 --> 2556.34] A Christmas Carol -[2556.34 --> 2557.08] was published -[2557.08 --> 2558.78] in 1843. -[2559.78 --> 2560.30] So how many -[2560.30 --> 2561.46] Christmas presents -[2561.46 --> 2562.80] would there have been -[2562.80 --> 2564.66] from that first one -[2564.66 --> 2565.50] in the manger? -[2566.82 --> 2568.56] Some 1,800 or so. -[2569.70 --> 2570.16] Right? -[2570.20 --> 2570.78] I think there's -[2570.78 --> 2572.36] an analogy. -[2573.60 --> 2574.54] Now one of the things -[2574.54 --> 2575.98] that this Christmas -[2575.98 --> 2577.42] spirit does -[2577.42 --> 2578.52] is take Scrooge -[2578.52 --> 2579.78] around to people -[2579.78 --> 2580.48] who have -[2580.48 --> 2582.18] obviously less -[2582.18 --> 2583.30] than he does. -[2583.84 --> 2584.58] And so for instance, -[2584.70 --> 2586.06] they go to the home -[2586.06 --> 2586.66] and family -[2586.66 --> 2587.76] of Bob Cratchit -[2587.76 --> 2589.14] who works for Scrooge. -[2589.28 --> 2590.22] And that's where we meet -[2590.22 --> 2591.38] the famous Tiny Tim. -[2592.56 --> 2592.82] Right? -[2592.82 --> 2593.34] Then they move -[2593.34 --> 2593.72] from there -[2593.72 --> 2594.82] to a miner's cottage -[2594.82 --> 2596.04] and to a lighthouse keeper -[2596.04 --> 2597.22] and to a ship at sea. -[2597.86 --> 2598.96] And they see -[2598.96 --> 2600.00] and observe people -[2600.00 --> 2600.90] all of whom -[2600.90 --> 2603.56] have way less -[2603.56 --> 2604.50] than Scrooge -[2604.50 --> 2605.66] and by Scrooge's -[2605.66 --> 2607.00] own view of the world -[2607.00 --> 2608.58] should not be happy, -[2608.96 --> 2610.24] should not be content, -[2610.72 --> 2611.40] and yet -[2611.40 --> 2613.14] they are. -[2614.06 --> 2614.24] Right? -[2614.26 --> 2614.84] There's a sense -[2614.84 --> 2615.56] of peace -[2615.56 --> 2617.04] and contentment -[2617.04 --> 2618.32] that is compelling -[2618.32 --> 2619.58] to Scrooge, -[2619.78 --> 2620.82] although in that moment -[2620.82 --> 2623.08] yet he doesn't quite understand. -[2624.26 --> 2625.66] That sense of contentment -[2625.66 --> 2627.50] comes from the peace -[2627.50 --> 2628.82] that they have. -[2629.90 --> 2630.66] And so in the hustle -[2630.66 --> 2632.36] and bustle of Christmas -[2632.36 --> 2634.34] and as things become -[2634.34 --> 2635.38] so busy -[2635.38 --> 2636.36] this time of year -[2636.36 --> 2637.98] for so many of us -[2637.98 --> 2639.10] moving from one place -[2639.10 --> 2639.70] to another, -[2639.80 --> 2640.98] it's so easy -[2640.98 --> 2642.34] to lose sense -[2642.34 --> 2643.46] and sight -[2643.46 --> 2644.98] of that peace. -[2646.20 --> 2646.84] Now I believe -[2646.84 --> 2647.84] that we are all hungry -[2647.84 --> 2648.48] for it. -[2649.20 --> 2649.34] Right? -[2649.40 --> 2649.68] Remember -[2649.68 --> 2650.52] the description -[2650.52 --> 2651.86] of Christmas present, -[2651.96 --> 2653.08] the ghost of Christmas present? -[2653.48 --> 2654.64] Girded round its middle -[2654.64 --> 2655.90] was an antique scabbard -[2655.90 --> 2656.72] but no sword -[2656.72 --> 2657.26] was in it -[2657.26 --> 2658.46] and the ancient sheath -[2658.46 --> 2659.46] was eaten up -[2659.46 --> 2660.54] with rust. -[2661.60 --> 2662.54] There is a peace -[2662.54 --> 2664.04] that comes at Christmas -[2664.04 --> 2665.42] that makes -[2665.42 --> 2666.36] swords -[2666.36 --> 2667.62] unnecessary. -[2668.62 --> 2670.14] A sense of peace -[2670.14 --> 2671.30] that only Jesus -[2671.30 --> 2672.60] can bring. -[2673.70 --> 2674.50] We've been reading -[2674.50 --> 2675.70] from Isaiah. -[2676.18 --> 2676.96] Isaiah 2 -[2676.96 --> 2678.52] we read, -[2678.52 --> 2679.66] he will judge -[2679.66 --> 2680.62] between the nations -[2680.62 --> 2681.20] and will settle -[2681.20 --> 2682.60] disputes for many peoples. -[2683.36 --> 2684.04] They will beat -[2684.04 --> 2685.02] their swords -[2685.02 --> 2686.24] into plowshares -[2686.24 --> 2687.46] and their spears -[2687.46 --> 2688.58] into pruning hooks. -[2689.36 --> 2690.22] Nation will not -[2690.22 --> 2690.90] take up sword -[2690.90 --> 2691.56] against nation -[2691.56 --> 2692.76] nor will they train -[2692.76 --> 2693.50] for war -[2693.50 --> 2694.66] anymore. -[2695.66 --> 2697.06] There's no longer -[2697.06 --> 2697.78] a need -[2697.78 --> 2698.64] for a sword -[2698.64 --> 2699.86] so the sheath -[2699.86 --> 2700.96] is covered over -[2700.96 --> 2702.14] in rust. -[2703.14 --> 2704.00] For to us -[2704.00 --> 2704.74] a child -[2704.74 --> 2705.84] is born. -[2706.76 --> 2707.26] To us -[2707.26 --> 2707.86] a son -[2707.86 --> 2708.48] is given -[2708.48 --> 2709.18] and the government -[2709.18 --> 2710.32] will be on his -[2710.32 --> 2711.02] shoulders -[2711.02 --> 2712.46] and he will be called -[2712.46 --> 2714.40] Wonderful Counselor -[2714.40 --> 2715.60] Mighty God -[2715.60 --> 2717.38] Everlasting Father -[2717.38 --> 2718.52] Prince -[2718.52 --> 2720.08] of Peace. -[2720.84 --> 2721.82] Over the next -[2721.82 --> 2722.38] week -[2722.38 --> 2723.00] over the next -[2723.00 --> 2723.88] few weeks -[2723.88 --> 2724.96] our prayer -[2724.96 --> 2725.80] my prayer -[2725.80 --> 2726.36] for you -[2726.36 --> 2727.04] is that you -[2727.04 --> 2727.78] would know -[2727.78 --> 2728.70] the peace -[2728.70 --> 2730.00] of Jesus -[2730.00 --> 2731.54] this Christmas. -[2731.54 --> 2733.26] hopefully it -[2733.26 --> 2733.74] doesn't take -[2733.74 --> 2734.30] the appearance -[2734.30 --> 2734.92] of a ghost -[2734.92 --> 2736.16] to help you -[2736.16 --> 2736.66] find it -[2736.66 --> 2738.72] but I pray -[2738.72 --> 2739.80] that you do -[2739.80 --> 2741.16] and that you -[2741.16 --> 2741.80] would know -[2741.80 --> 2743.52] this peace -[2743.52 --> 2744.92] the only -[2744.92 --> 2745.86] true peace -[2745.86 --> 2746.92] that surpasses -[2746.92 --> 2747.48] all -[2747.48 --> 2748.96] understanding. -[2750.16 --> 2750.44] Amen? -[2751.44 --> 2752.04] Amen. -[2752.16 --> 2752.56] Let's invite -[2752.56 --> 2753.36] the choir back up. -[2761.54 --> 2762.54] Amen. -[2791.54 --> 2792.54] Amen. -[2821.54 --> 2827.74] to the choir back up. -[2829.36 --> 2829.70] Amen. -[2829.84 --> 2830.26] Amen. -[2830.28 --> 2830.56] Amen. -[2830.56 --> 2830.64] Amen. -[2831.00 --> 2831.54] Amen. -[2833.08 --> 2833.32] Amen. -[2833.32 --> 2835.38] Amen. -[2835.62 --> 2837.48] Amen. -[2837.48 --> 2837.62] Amen. -[2837.62 --> 2838.32] Amen. -[2838.34 --> 2839.10] Amen. -[2839.52 --> 2839.86] Amen. -[2839.96 --> 2841.58] Amen. -[2841.60 --> 2843.66] Amen. -[2843.82 --> 2846.04] Amen. -[2846.40 --> 2847.16] Amen. -[2847.62 --> 2848.08] Amen. -[2848.10 --> 2849.14] Amen. -[2850.12 --> 2851.02] Amen. -[2851.02 --> 2851.24] Amen. -[2851.24 --> 2851.30] Amen. -[2851.30 --> 2852.30] Amen. -[2881.30 --> 2883.30] Amen. -[2911.30 --> 2913.30] Amen. -[2941.30 --> 2943.30] Amen. -[2971.30 --> 2986.68] Jesus, leading up to Jesus' birth, Caesar Augustus issued a decree that census should be taken -[2986.68 --> 2993.62] off the entire Roman world. -[2993.62 --> 2999.22] And everyone went to his own town to register. -[2999.22 --> 3007.82] So Joseph also went up to the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, -[3007.94 --> 3013.30] to Bethlehem, the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. -[3013.68 --> 3020.82] He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. -[3022.82 --> 3027.54] While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born. -[3029.22 --> 3033.82] And she gave birth to her firstborn son. -[3034.90 --> 3042.62] She wrapped him in clothes and placed him in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn. -[3059.22 --> 3064.90] And she gave birth to her firstborn son. -[3064.90 --> 3070.14] She gave birth to her firstborn son. -[3070.14 --> 3072.86] She gave birth to her firstborn son. -[3072.86 --> 3078.54] She gave birth to her firstborn son. -[3078.54 --> 3081.22] She gave birth to her firstborn son. -[3081.22 --> 3084.22] She gave birth to her firstborn son. -[3084.22 --> 3086.90] She gave birth to her firstborn son. -[3086.90 --> 3089.90] She gave birth to her firstborn son. -[3089.90 --> 3105.50] Did you know that your baby boy has come to make you new? -[3105.50 --> 3115.50] This child that you deliver, who delivered? -[3115.50 --> 3127.50] Did you know that your baby boy could die to have like that? -[3127.50 --> 3149.50] Did you know that your baby boy has walked where angels drive? -[3149.50 --> 3161.50] Did you kiss your little baby in the face of God? -[3161.50 --> 3181.50] Did you hear that your baby boy could die? -[3181.50 --> 3194.50] The blind will see, the deaf will hear, the deaf will live again. -[3194.50 --> 3208.50] The lame will leave, the dumb will speak, the praise does go forever. -[3208.50 --> 3224.50] Mary, did you know that Mary was born, this Lord of all creation? -[3224.50 --> 3235.50] Mary, did you know that Mary was born, that one day ruled the nations? -[3235.50 --> 3246.50] Did you know that your baby born was heaven's perfect land? -[3246.50 --> 3265.50] The sleeping child you're holding is the great, the great of God. -[3265.50 --> 3285.50] The sleeping child you're holding is the great, the great of God. -[3285.50 --> 3291.50] And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. -[3291.50 --> 3298.50] An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. -[3298.50 --> 3305.50] But the angel said to them, Do not be afraid, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. -[3305.50 --> 3309.50] Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you, he is Christ the Lord. -[3309.50 --> 3315.50] This will be a sign to you, you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. -[3315.50 --> 3322.50] Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, -[3322.50 --> 3329.50] Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests. -[3329.50 --> 3349.50] Glory to the new born King, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests. -[3349.50 --> 3359.50] Lord the heavenly angels sing, Glory to the new born King, -[3359.50 --> 3369.50] He's on earth and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled. -[3369.50 --> 3377.30] With the mighty from of the saints, -[3377.50 --> 3381.50] 头 Wang and sinners reconciled. -[3381.50 --> 3383.50] King, and thegaeitiere Brothers ц Murder from thefts, -[3383.50 --> 3388.50] 娘ская laudas wold that air! -[3388.50 --> 3392.50] Lord the heavenly angels sing, -[3392.50 --> 3394.50] Mount the whole faithful sunshine, -[3394.50 --> 3397.50] Bible and thunder to heaven on earth peace to those Not as us, -[3397.50 --> 3401.96] The new born King -[3401.96 --> 3407.74] First by highest heaven adored -[3407.74 --> 3412.56] Christ the everlasting Lord -[3412.56 --> 3417.64] In time beholding God -[3417.64 --> 3422.84] All strength of the virgin's womb -[3422.84 --> 3427.80] Hail him, touch the cross and sea -[3427.80 --> 3432.90] Hail him, our good deity -[3432.90 --> 3437.98] Jesus, let him cross to dwell -[3437.98 --> 3443.24] Jesus, our Emmanuel -[3443.24 --> 3448.50] God, my heaven will be just me -[3448.50 --> 3454.46] Glory to the new born King -[3454.46 --> 3460.64] From the heaven of the peace -[3460.64 --> 3465.06] Will the Son of righteousness -[3465.06 --> 3470.50] Light and light to all he brings -[3471.06 --> 3475.50] With the healing in his prayer -[3475.50 --> 3481.46] Happiness is gone divine -[3481.46 --> 3486.56] Over every no more denied -[3486.56 --> 3491.80] Glory to Jesus, what we are -[3491.80 --> 3496.46] Glory to heaven, our Savior and glory -[3496.46 --> 3501.50] Come on, the heaven of the angels sing -[3501.50 --> 3507.34] Home coming, and my Savior and eternally -[3507.34 --> 3519.42] Son of anyone -[3519.42 --> 3521.56] Joyful and triumphant -[3521.56 --> 3530.66] O come ye, O come ye, to heaven. -[3532.66 --> 3546.84] God, behold it, Lord, that may the nations of the man of the Lord. -[3546.84 --> 3562.40] O come, let us adore, O come, let us adore, hear him cry, Lord. -[3562.40 --> 3580.40] God of the Father, man of the Lord eternal, love ye, a voice of the world. -[3580.40 --> 3592.88] God of the Father, be God and not created. -[3593.54 --> 3598.40] O come, let us adore him. -[3598.40 --> 3603.34] O come, let us adore him. -[3603.34 --> 3608.40] O come, let us adore him. -[3608.40 --> 3613.40] In Christ the Lord. -[3613.40 --> 3620.40] Sing, Lord, that may the nations of the Lord. -[3620.40 --> 3624.40] Sing in exultation. -[3624.40 --> 3634.40] Sing, holy spirit, our sins of the Lord above. -[3634.40 --> 3636.28] Glory to God. -[3636.28 --> 3640.34] Glory to God. -[3640.34 --> 3641.34] Glory to God. -[3641.34 --> 3644.58] Glory in the light. -[3644.58 --> 3649.96] O come, let us adore him. -[3649.96 --> 3654.98] O come, let us adore him. -[3654.98 --> 3659.46] O come, let us adore him. -[3659.46 --> 3665.90] Give him pride, O Lord. -[3665.90 --> 3675.90] Before we greet thee for this happy morning, -[3677.10 --> 3686.02] Jesus, to thee be all glory given. -[3686.02 --> 3696.32] Lord of the Father, now in pleasure be. -[3696.32 --> 3701.86] O come, let us adore him. -[3702.20 --> 3707.12] O come, let us adore him. -[3707.40 --> 3711.32] O come, let us adore him. -[3711.32 --> 3717.62] Give him pride, O Lord. -[3717.62 --> 3720.00] O come. -[3720.00 --> 3721.62] ą -[3721.62 --> 3726.46] O new world the Lord is come. -[3726.54 --> 3731.62] That earth receive your name, -[3731.62 --> 3737.36] That to every heart we bear and roam, -[3737.36 --> 3749.30] And heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing, and heaven and heaven and nature sing. -[3749.30 --> 3766.24] Joy to the earth, the Savior reigns, and all the songs and songs of life, of fields and clouds, of fields and plains. -[3766.24 --> 3778.24] Redeem the astounding joy, Redeem the astounding joy, Redeem, Redeem the astounding joy. -[3778.24 --> 3789.24] O, O, O, that's made and sorrow grow, O, does it pass the ground? -[3789.24 --> 3810.24] He comes to pain, He will sing, for us the curse is found, for us the curse is found. -[3810.24 --> 3826.24] O, the world with truth and grace, And makes the nations blue, The glories of His righteousness, -[3826.24 --> 3840.24] The wonders of His love, The wonders of His love, The wonders of His love. -[3840.24 --> 3842.24] O, the world with truth and happiness, The splendor is for all the shere, -[3842.24 --> 3842.26] The sword Sym you don't have so set, The進ic sin's glory, His love has眼 чтобы -[3842.26 --> 3843.32] His love. -[3843.32 --> 3856.26] And all the shere of His love is the most beautifulhen что-so, -[3856.26 --> 3856.54] The Wal-Koh possvideo, um?! -[3856.54 --> 3859.58] David said, read tua key in uncertain, imperankind, -[3859.58 --> 3861.54] R tasting moreVEHOME неб suo, -[3861.54 --> 3864.46] The network and video's mom obey Him, -[3864.46 --> 3865.88] near the样 putting friends on our body, -[3865.88 --> 3870.38] Love and worship, love and worship, -[3870.38 --> 3876.70] Worship Christ the newborn King. -[3877.22 --> 3880.84] Sinners, strong and blue, -[3880.84 --> 3884.30] And grand hands, new formula, -[3884.50 --> 3887.22] To endless pace. -[3887.76 --> 3892.70] Justice now becomes a sentence, -[3892.70 --> 3897.92] Mercy calls to break the chains. -[3897.92 --> 3903.42] Love and worship, love and worship, -[3903.88 --> 3909.60] Worship Christ the newborn King. -[3910.76 --> 3916.02] Oh, what if in how we heal him, -[3916.30 --> 3921.22] He will share his father's throne. -[3921.22 --> 3927.02] Gather all the nations to him, -[3927.44 --> 3932.44] Every knee shall hang out down. -[3932.44 --> 3938.24] Love and worship, love and worship, -[3938.24 --> 3945.04] Morship Christ the newborn King. -[3945.04 --> 3951.84] God, creation, join in praising, -[3951.84 --> 3957.90] God of the earth's spirit's son. -[3957.90 --> 3963.88] Heaven, all your voices raising, -[3963.88 --> 3969.68] To eternal life. -[3969.68 --> 3975.40] Love and worship, love and worship, -[3975.40 --> 3981.20] Worship Christ the newborn King. -[3981.20 --> 3987.42] Love and worship, love and worship, -[3987.42 --> 3994.62] Worship Christ the newborn King. -[3994.62 --> 4004.76] When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, -[4005.10 --> 4007.04] The shepherds said to one another, -[4007.84 --> 4011.56] Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, -[4011.88 --> 4013.58] Which the Lord has told us. -[4013.58 --> 4021.94] So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph and the baby who was lying in the manger. -[4022.88 --> 4024.48] When they had seen him, -[4024.60 --> 4032.30] They spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child. -[4032.30 --> 4039.44] And all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. -[4039.44 --> 4046.90] But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. -[4047.36 --> 4054.80] The shepherds returned glory and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, -[4054.80 --> 4059.02] And the shepherds were just as they had been told. -[4059.02 --> 4089.00] And the shepherds were just as they had been told. -[4089.02 --> 4096.16] This is the night of the Lord's Savior's birth. -[4096.16 --> 4103.36] O glorious night, the angel's cries are waking, -[4103.36 --> 4110.38] Bringing the news of peace to all the earth. -[4110.38 --> 4117.36] Rejoice, rejoice, this is our time for worship. -[4117.36 --> 4124.50] Lift up your voice and tune your heart for praise. -[4124.52 --> 4153.08] O wondrous night for the name of Jesus. -[4153.08 --> 4169.92] O wondrous night, the heavens shine with glory. -[4170.92 --> 4176.48] Beaming with light, love paints the shadows gold. -[4176.48 --> 4184.86] And from the high, the angels share the story. -[4185.86 --> 4191.88] Glory to God, they shout with voices bold. -[4193.32 --> 4199.34] Rejoice, rejoice, this is our time for worship. -[4199.34 --> 4207.46] Lift up your voice and tune your heart for praise. -[4208.10 --> 4216.80] O wondrous night, the from the gift of Jesus. -[4216.80 --> 4237.80] O wondrous night, the from the light of grace. -[4237.80 --> 4242.38] O seating and�頭 -[4243.10 --> 4246.70] sing and blue -[4250.92 --> 4252.68] O expressing. -[4252.92 --> 4257.28] All thanks, O życie. -[4257.28 --> 4280.12] The Father's lovely God's heaven, where the world began to be. -[4280.12 --> 4298.82] He is Alpha and Omega, because Lord's the ending he, of the things that are at hand, -[4298.82 --> 4305.82] and the future here shall see. -[4305.82 --> 4324.82] Evermore and evermore, for the world the heavenless man, when a virgin last man prays, -[4324.82 --> 4335.82] by the Holy Ghost perceiving, for the skin of the grave, -[4337.28 --> 4346.82] and the name of the world's Redeemer, must reveal this sacred thing. -[4346.82 --> 4360.82] Evermore and evermore, at the heights of heaven adore him, -[4360.82 --> 4372.82] angel hosts his blazes sing, our dominions bow before him, -[4372.82 --> 4386.82] and extol our God and King, that brought home on earth, be silent, -[4386.82 --> 4391.82] every morning of him. -[4391.82 --> 4398.82] Evermore and evermore. -[4398.82 --> 4415.82] Evermore and evermore. -[4415.82 --> 4420.82] Before we close with one final Christmas medley, -[4420.82 --> 4426.82] I want to once again say thank you for joining us tonight. -[4426.82 --> 4430.82] I trust and hope that you were able to sing some songs, -[4430.82 --> 4435.82] and that you have been moved in the spirit to praise Jesus, -[4435.82 --> 4438.82] who has come and is coming again. -[4438.82 --> 4439.82] Amen. -[4439.82 --> 4452.82] At the end of the medley, you will have an opportunity to say thank you to the choir -[4452.82 --> 4454.82] and to the kids with your applause, -[4454.82 --> 4459.82] but it is worth mentioning that this night would not have happened without the, -[4459.82 --> 4464.82] I'm going to say countless because I don't actually want to know the number of hours -[4464.82 --> 4468.82] that Mark has put into this service. -[4468.82 --> 4471.82] And so Mark, thank you very much from all of us. -[4471.82 --> 4473.82] I really appreciate your work and time. -[4473.82 --> 4474.82] Thank you. -[4474.82 --> 4486.82] It will be when you're ready. -[4486.82 --> 4490.82] Also, I just want to invite you following the time here. -[4490.82 --> 4493.82] There will be refreshments in the foyer and at the back. -[4493.82 --> 4497.82] There's coffee and there's a whole bunch of cookies and other goodies. -[4497.82 --> 4501.82] So please stick around, share in that time together. -[4501.82 --> 4507.82] And I also want to say, invite you to our Christmas Day worship service, -[4507.82 --> 4510.82] which will happen next Sunday at 10 a.m. -[4510.82 --> 4512.82] Now, if you are a member at another church, -[4512.82 --> 4516.82] we encourage you to go to your church and to worship with your church family. -[4516.82 --> 4520.82] But if you are looking for a place to gather for worship on Christmas Day, -[4520.82 --> 4526.82] we will be here and we will be having a worship and fellowship together at 10, -[4526.82 --> 4533.82] and we would love to have whoever can and is looking for that join us on that Sunday. -[4533.82 --> 4541.82] We're going to conclude our time before the medley with just one last word of blessing from our God -[4541.82 --> 4546.82] as he names us his children when by grace through faith we believe. -[4546.82 --> 4553.82] And this is a blessing that has been spoken from the very beginning over the people of God in Israel -[4553.82 --> 4558.82] and now in to us as the church from Numbers 6. -[4558.82 --> 4564.82] I invite you to just take a posture of receipt as God speaks these words over you. -[4564.82 --> 4569.82] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[4569.82 --> 4574.82] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[4574.82 --> 4581.82] The Lord turn his face towards you and give you his peace. -[4581.82 --> 4585.82] In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. -[4585.82 --> 4588.82] And all God's people said, Amen. -[4588.82 --> 4598.82] Y'all hear me? Okay. -[4598.82 --> 4600.82] Yeah, so I just wanted to say a quick word. -[4600.82 --> 4603.82] Thank you for coming out despite the weather. -[4603.82 --> 4609.18] And, yeah, I was worried that we were going to get three feet of snow and nobody would be here. -[4609.36 --> 4612.94] So, yeah, so I appreciate you all being here. -[4613.26 --> 4619.34] And, yeah, I mean, it really is about bringing music to people's ears and worshiping God. -[4619.34 --> 4624.72] So, yeah, this next number, don't they look good? -[4625.38 --> 4626.94] Yeah, everybody, everybody. -[4628.30 --> 4628.78] Yeah. -[4628.78 --> 4638.28] Yeah, I guess I should take this moment to thank everybody who was involved that helped bring this evening together. -[4639.18 --> 4640.56] So, thank you. -[4640.72 --> 4643.56] I'm not going to go through a long list of lames like last year. -[4646.50 --> 4646.98] Yeah. -[4648.08 --> 4648.56] Enjoy. -[4658.78 --> 4688.76] Thank you. -[4688.78 --> 4704.78] Thank you. -[4706.50 --> 4710.42] Thank you. -[4710.42 --> 4720.42] Oh little flower, bed, flat, house, fill the tree, -[4720.42 --> 4727.42] I, above the deep and dreamless, -[4727.42 --> 4733.42] I, this heart, oh, ah, -[4733.42 --> 4743.42] Yet in the justly son, be never the last behind. -[4743.42 --> 4754.42] The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee to none. -[4754.42 --> 4765.42] For Christ is born of Mary, and heaven held above. -[4765.42 --> 4775.42] While mortals sweep the angels' feet, there was a wandering night. -[4775.42 --> 4786.42] Oh, Lord, it starts together, for fame the holy birth. -[4786.42 --> 4797.42] And praise and sing to God the King, and peace to all on earth. -[4797.42 --> 4808.42] Oh, silent, oh, silent, the wondrous air. -[4808.42 --> 4818.42] Oh, God, in parts to humans the blessing of this man. -[4818.42 --> 4829.42] Oh, we're made here is coming, but in the world of sin. -[4829.42 --> 4835.42] Where meek's those will we seek in still, -[4835.42 --> 4840.42] How dear Christ enters in. -[4840.42 --> 4850.42] How granddad, O Holy Tower of Acts, -[4850.42 --> 4852.42] In the Wind and pastor of John, -[4852.42 --> 4854.42] In the spirit of youth, -[4854.42 --> 4856.42] There mightない woe- of a time. -[4856.42 --> 4857.42] What our spirit of Jesus is in. -[4857.42 --> 4859.42] Whatiniz is Englishman Weak's lesson to help -[4859.42 --> 4863.42] Have power no errored of imagine, -[4863.42 --> 4864.42] Good holy approndan. -[4864.42 --> 4868.42] How valley are never worth what it is of as bay. -[4868.42 --> 4881.78] We hear the Christmas angels, the great night I need to bear. -[4881.78 --> 4893.54] O come to us, come by Christmas, our Lord Emmanuel. -[4898.42 --> 4905.42] The Lord Emmanuel. -[4905.42 --> 4913.98] Away in a manger, no grip for a bend. -[4913.98 --> 4922.38] The little Lord Jesus laid down his feet wide. -[4922.38 --> 4929.38] The stars in the bright sky looked down where he lay. -[4929.38 --> 4939.14] The little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay. -[4939.14 --> 4944.38] I will slop when the baby bowel hank. -[4944.38 --> 4949.86] But in the Lord he does no cry. -[4949.86 --> 4954.80] Lord Jesus, no crying, he fades. -[4954.80 --> 4973.48] I love you, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky, and stay by my side until glory is mine. -[4979.86 --> 4995.16] I love you, Lord Jesus, I ask you to stay. -[4995.66 --> 5003.24] Close by me forever and love me, I pray. -[5003.24 --> 5011.40] Bless all the dear children in your tender care. -[5011.88 --> 5020.56] Prepare us for heaven to live with you then. -[5020.56 --> 5050.54] I love you, Lord Jesus, I ask you to stay. -[5050.56 --> 5060.98] Silent night, holy night. -[5061.26 --> 5067.56] All is calm, all is bright. -[5067.56 --> 5075.46] Round your virgin mother and child. -[5076.16 --> 5082.56] Holy is that your tender and mild. -[5083.56 --> 5088.56] Sleep in heavenly peace. -[5088.56 --> 5090.56] Sleep in heavenly peace. -[5090.56 --> 5095.56] Sleep in heavenly peace. -[5095.56 --> 5104.56] Silent night, holy night. -[5104.56 --> 5106.56] Spot up, God. -[5106.56 --> 5107.56] Sun. -[5107.56 --> 5109.14] Born, sun. -[5109.14 --> 5111.26] Sun. -[5111.26 --> 5113.92] Uncongled light to naught. -[5113.92 --> 5123.68] Father looks into -[5123.68 --> 5141.68] The Father, Creator of all, Infant Savior and King, Infant Savior and King. -[5141.68 --> 5165.68] Silent night, holy night, Leopards wave round the sky, When they hear the angels sing, Hallelujah to the King. -[5165.68 --> 5177.68] Rise the Spirit, one to dare, Our Lord, Creator of all. -[5177.68 --> 5189.68] Silent night, holy night, Son of power, O Lord, Your light, -[5189.68 --> 5201.68] Minds and hands are heavenly feet, It's been found in deep ways. -[5201.68 --> 5211.68] Jesus, Lord, Your blood, Jesus, Lord, Your blood, -[5211.68 --> 5228.68] Seen, Lord, Jesus, Child born, Son of God, Christ our Savior, -[5228.68 --> 5244.68] Glory, Deer, Round yon virgin, Mother and child, Holy air, but so tender and mild, -[5244.68 --> 5256.68] Angels sing of His glory, Rejoice, The price of Savior is born. -[5256.68 --> 5272.68] Silent night, holy night, All is calm, all is bright, -[5272.68 --> 5288.68] Round yon virgin, Mother and child, Holy air, but so tender and mild, -[5288.68 --> 5290.68] Mateo, help me wait for a youth party with so tender and tender and tender and tender as she constitutes potek當然 -[5290.68 --> 5302.68] I know we're out there and let them know on a lot of the Wolf-Useание, -[5302.68 --> 5304.68] Lord, if the Spirit of all, I love me and thank God for��요. -[5304.68 --> 5306.68] Lady accordance, let me know as I am a priest during the Fastestregation развитие, -[5306.68 --> 5308.68] Peace, Lord, I encourage you to act on a place for mercy, -[5308.68 --> 5310.68] Lady singles house bycot price, Thy seed, for me and thank God for kings of God, -[5310.68 --> 5316.68] Mother andquer pourquoi I am the gleich Lisbon Salutator of all as we celebrate and many verses, -[5316.68 --> 5335.68] O holy night, the stars are brightly shining, it is the night of the tears made us blue. -[5335.68 --> 5353.68] O holy night, the world may stay and never find me, and he appear and round the soul down his word. -[5353.68 --> 5368.68] O holy night, the day has no rejoiced, for on earth is the day of the light of the light. -[5368.68 --> 5381.68] How are your ears, so hear the angel voices. -[5381.68 --> 5404.68] O holy night, the night of the night, O holy night. -[5404.68 --> 5411.68] How are your eyes, so hear the angel voices. -[5411.68 --> 5427.68] O holy night, the stars are bright, and the stars are bright, and the stars are bright, and the stars are bright. -[5427.68 --> 5440.68] O holy night, the stars are bright, and the stars are bright, and the stars are bright. -[5440.68 --> 5441.68] O holy night, the stars are bright, and sky. -[5441.68 --> 5450.68] O holy night, the name of the night is my name. -[5450.68 --> 5452.82] March by gold, -[5452.82 --> 5455.62] Lord, would be our friend. -[5456.16 --> 5461.62] He knows our name. -[5461.86 --> 5467.70] Our weakness is no stranger. -[5467.70 --> 5477.70] Behold your name before. -[5477.70 --> 5480.70] Your lovely man. -[5480.70 --> 5489.70] Behold your name before. -[5489.70 --> 5493.70] Your lovely man. -[5493.70 --> 5503.70] Do we talk to love one another? -[5503.70 --> 5513.70] His love is love and his gospel is free. -[5513.70 --> 5520.70] James shall be brave, warm and slave is our brother. -[5520.70 --> 5528.70] And in his name all oppression shall see. -[5528.70 --> 5532.70] With hands unto him, -[5532.70 --> 5535.70] faithful, glorious praise be. -[5535.70 --> 5542.70] Let all within us praise his holy name. -[5542.70 --> 5547.70] Praise is the Lord. -[5547.70 --> 5554.70] The praise is made forever. -[5554.70 --> 5567.70] His love and glory and our wonderful name. -[5567.70 --> 5581.70] His love and glory and our wonderful name. -[5581.70 --> 5583.70] Praise is the Lord. -[5583.70 --> 5587.70] Praise is the Lord. -[5587.70 --> 5593.70] The praise is made forever. -[5593.70 --> 5599.70] His love and glory and our wonderful name. -[5599.70 --> 5609.70] His love and glory and our wonderful name. -[5609.70 --> 5613.70] His love and glory and our wonderful name. -[5613.70 --> 5623.70] His love and glory and our wonderful name. -[5623.70 --> 5625.70] His love and glory and our wonderful name. -[5625.70 --> 5649.48] And glory are his holy, holy night. -[5649.48 --> 5655.48] Holy night. -[5655.48 --> 5675.48] Holy night. -[5679.48 --> 5708.48] Holy night. -[5708.48 --> 5712.28] On behalf of the choir, we just wanted to say thank you to Mark for all of the hard work -[5712.28 --> 5714.98] he put in all season and especially for this concert. -[5714.98 --> 5715.48] So thank you so much. -[5715.48 --> 5716.48] Thank you. -[5716.48 --> 5723.48] Thank you. -[5723.48 --> 5724.98] Thank you. -[5724.98 --> 5731.98] Thank you. diff --git a/Christmas Day - December 25, 2022_summary.txt b/Christmas Day - December 25, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index e0bc17a40b496fb257becd4bc7288cb88e997eac..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Christmas Day - December 25, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,60 +0,0 @@ -• O Night Divine hymn -• Christ's birth and significance -• Love, peace, and freedom from oppression -• Praise for Jesus' power and glory -• The promise of His birth -• Heavenly celebration and praise -• Joy and rejoicing at Jesus' arrival -• Worship service for Christmas morning -• Announcements: Mexico mission trip sign-up, church family skate on Boxing Day, New Year's Eve worship service -• Pastor Chris welcomes guests from Trinity Western University and invites them to stay for lunch -• Discussion of Advent season and the significance of Jesus' first and second comings -• Singing of Christmas carols in multiple languages -• Joy to the Lord, the Lord is God (hymn) -• Discussion of Christmas and the birth of Jesus -• Reading of Christian hymns and carols, including "Joy to the World" and "O Come, All Ye Faithful" -• Reflection on God's presence in worship and invitation to receive God's greeting -• Prayer for grace, mercy, and peace from God, our Father, through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit -• Welcome and thanksgiving statements repeated multiple times -• References to being in a state of light and presence -• Poetic passage referencing the birth of Jesus and its significance -• Discussion of the impact of Jesus' birth on humanity, including hope, joy, peace, and freedom from sin and death -• Acknowledgement of ongoing struggles and challenges in the world, such as loss, injustice, sickness, and pain -• Prayer for strengthening faith and comfort through God's presence and promises -• Invocation to praise and worship God with music and song -• Reflection on Jesus' power being made perfect in weakness and service -• Call to action for believers to adore and praise God by living out their faith in the world -• The speaker references a childhood favorite movie, "The Never-Ending Story," to illustrate the concept of nested stories. -• Christmas story is presented as three interconnected stories that form one grand narrative. -• The concept of nesting dolls is used to represent the layers of storytelling in the Christmas narrative. -• The first part of the Christmas story is the birth of baby Jesus in Bethlehem, told from Matthew 1:18-25. -• Each aspect of the story is important, but when viewed as part of a larger narrative, the grandeur and meaning are amplified. -• The birth of Jesus is nested within a larger story -• The story of Isaiah, who prophesied 700 years before Jesus, is connected to Matthew's account of Jesus' birth -• Isaiah's prophecy that a virgin will conceive and give birth to Emmanuel (God with us) is fulfilled in the birth of Jesus -• The Christmas story has become diluted by cultural and commercial traditions, causing people to miss its true significance -• The core message of Christmas is God's presence among humanity, specifically through Jesus' birth and mission to save people from their sins -• Creation story in Genesis 1 and God's relationship with humanity -• Humanity's sin and rebellion against God, as told in Genesis 3 -• Promise of salvation through Emmanuel (Jesus) in Genesis 3:15 -• Jesus' life, death, resurrection, and role as our Savior -• Gift of Emmanuel (God with us) at Christmas -• Return of the King (Christ's second coming), as seen in Revelation -• The story of Emmanuel and its connection to God's dwelling place among people -• The second coming of Jesus and the promise of a new heaven and earth (Revelation 21:1-5) -• The hope of Christmas as God walking among His creation and people, both in the past and future -• The world's hunger for God's presence and restoration -• The significance of Christmas as a fulfillment of a promise given at creation and to be fulfilled at the end of history -• The transformative power of understanding the true meaning of Christmas on one's life -• The significance of seeing Christmas as part of a larger story -• The connection between gardening and kingdom service -• The Christmas story changing everything with its grand narrative -• Finding one's place within the grander story to see the grandeur of Jesus -• Prayer for God's presence, purpose, hope, and new family in Christ -• References to Jesus Christ and his role as Messiah, Savior, and Lord -• Praise and worship of God, with repetition of phrases such as "Love so amazing" and "Lord of all" -• Invitation to share in a Christmas tradition singing the song "Glory to God" (Ere Se God) -• Blessing of God given to those present, with prayer for protection, support, and companionship -• Encouragement to not be afraid and to go in peace to love and serve the Lord -• Repeated expression of gratitude or acknowledgment ("Thank you") -• No substantive conversation or discussion content \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Christmas Day - December 25, 2022_transcript.txt b/Christmas Day - December 25, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index cb81a0a52df1e91163c51a8ec5859c7997d07796..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Christmas Day - December 25, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,862 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 12.88] Divine, O night, when Christ was born. -[12.88 --> 32.88] O night divine, O night, O night divine. -[32.88 --> 41.88] Truly He taught us to love one another. -[42.88 --> 51.88] His law is love and His gospel is peace. -[51.88 --> 62.88] Chains shall He break, for the slave is our brother. -[62.88 --> 72.88] And in His name all oppression shall cease. -[72.88 --> 81.88] Sweet hymns of joy, in grateful chorus raise. -[81.88 --> 91.88] We let all within us praise His holy night. -[91.88 --> 100.88] Christ is the Lord. -[100.88 --> 110.88] Oh praise His name forever. -[110.88 --> 127.88] His power and glory evermore proclaim. -[127.88 --> 148.88] His power and glory evermore proclaim. -[148.88 --> 157.88] Oh, Lord, are near. -[157.88 --> 165.88] Oh hear the angel voices. -[165.88 --> 178.88] Oh, Lord, are near. -[178.88 --> 180.88] Oh, Lord, are near. -[180.88 --> 184.88] Oh, Lord, are near. -[184.88 --> 188.88] Oh, Lord. -[188.88 --> 200.88] All night divine -[204.88 --> 210.88] All night divine -[218.88 --> 238.88] All the world awaits -[238.88 --> 241.88] The promise of his birth -[241.88 --> 244.88] Open up the gates -[244.88 --> 247.88] Heaven come to earth -[247.88 --> 250.88] A host of angels sing -[250.88 --> 253.88] Your savior here to dwell -[253.88 --> 256.88] The king of every king -[256.88 --> 259.88] Our Emmanuel -[259.88 --> 262.88] Hosanna -[262.88 --> 264.88] Hosanna -[264.88 --> 267.88] Hosanna -[267.88 --> 270.88] Hosanna -[270.88 --> 274.88] In the highest -[274.88 --> 277.88] Hosanna -[277.88 --> 280.88] To our God -[280.88 --> 287.88] Behold the son of man -[287.88 --> 290.88] Here in a major land -[290.88 --> 293.88] Worthy is the land -[293.88 --> 296.88] For he has come to save -[296.88 --> 299.88] To take away our sin -[299.88 --> 302.88] He freely gave his life -[302.88 --> 305.88] Born that we may live -[305.88 --> 308.88] And in him never die -[308.88 --> 310.88] Hosanna -[310.88 --> 311.88] King Jesus -[311.88 --> 312.88] Hosanna -[312.88 --> 314.88] All praise -[314.88 --> 315.88] Hosanna -[315.88 --> 318.88] Hosanna -[318.88 --> 319.88] Come save us -[319.88 --> 320.88] Hosanna -[320.88 --> 321.88] He reigns -[321.88 --> 324.88] To the highest -[324.88 --> 325.88] Hosanna -[325.88 --> 329.88] To our God -[329.88 --> 335.88] Hosanna -[335.88 --> 336.88] Hosanna -[336.88 --> 337.88] Hail the heaven -[337.88 --> 338.88] Born Prince of peace -[338.88 --> 342.88] Hail the son of righteousness -[342.88 --> 345.88] Hail the son of righteousness -[345.88 --> 347.88] Hail the son of righteousness -[347.88 --> 348.88] Hail the son of righteousness -[348.88 --> 349.88] Light and life -[349.88 --> 351.88] To all he brings -[351.88 --> 353.88] Glory to the new born king -[353.88 --> 354.88] Hosanna -[354.88 --> 355.88] Hosanna -[355.88 --> 356.88] King Jesus -[356.88 --> 357.88] Hosanna -[357.88 --> 358.88] All praise -[358.88 --> 359.88] Hosanna -[359.88 --> 360.88] Come save us -[360.88 --> 361.88] Hosanna -[361.88 --> 362.88] He reigns -[362.88 --> 364.88] In the highest -[364.88 --> 366.88] Hosanna -[366.88 --> 368.88] In the highest -[368.88 --> 370.88] Hosanna -[370.88 --> 372.88] In the highest -[372.88 --> 374.88] Hosanna -[374.88 --> 376.88] In the highest -[376.88 --> 377.88] Hosanna -[377.88 --> 379.88] Hosanna -[379.88 --> 380.88] In the highest -[380.88 --> 382.88] Hosanna -[382.88 --> 383.88] Hosanna -[383.88 --> 388.88] Hosanna -[388.88 --> 391.88] Hosanna -[391.88 --> 393.88] To our God -[393.88 --> 398.88] Hosanna -[398.88 --> 403.88] Hosanna -[403.88 --> 404.88] Hosanna -[404.88 --> 405.88] Hosanna -[405.88 --> 406.88] Hosanna -[406.88 --> 407.88] Hosanna -[407.88 --> 413.20] We've been waiting for this night to come. -[413.56 --> 419.16] Watching, praying for the promised one. -[420.04 --> 422.38] Now angels fill the sky. -[423.30 --> 425.02] Good news from on high. -[425.16 --> 430.76] We've been waiting for this night to come. -[430.76 --> 436.98] Oh, the wonder of this birth. -[436.98 --> 442.98] Let it echo through the earth. -[443.20 --> 447.40] Rejoice! Rejoice! -[449.00 --> 456.00] Come behold the glory of Rejoice! -[456.00 --> 459.08] Rejoice! -[460.58 --> 466.00] Heaven's King has come to us. -[466.00 --> 468.00] Rejoice! -[468.00 --> 470.00] He is Savior. -[470.00 --> 474.00] He is God with us. -[474.00 --> 480.00] The evidence of the Father's love. -[480.00 --> 482.00] Here in Bethlehem. -[482.00 --> 484.00] Here in Bethlehem. -[484.00 --> 486.00] Let us bow to Him. -[486.00 --> 488.00] He is Savior. -[488.00 --> 492.00] He is God with us. -[492.00 --> 494.00] Rejoice! -[494.00 --> 496.00] Rejoice! -[496.00 --> 498.00] Rejoice! -[498.00 --> 504.00] Come behold the glorious Rejoice! -[504.00 --> 506.00] Rejoice! -[506.00 --> 508.00] Rejoice! -[508.00 --> 510.00] Do the colors. -[510.00 --> 521.00] Come on Jeremiah and usinfeld -[521.00 --> 522.00] on that Project saying ,Om, you'll live this day. -[522.00 --> 530.00] God of all creation. -[530.00 --> 539.90] God of all creation, clear with us. -[542.02 --> 550.42] You're a star that manger, Emmanuel. -[550.42 --> 560.56] When the night of earth hears you say, -[563.70 --> 570.66] Adore, come let us adore. -[570.66 --> 578.66] Oh, come let us adore Him. -[578.66 --> 583.66] Oh, come let us adore. -[583.66 --> 587.66] Worship Christ the Lord. -[587.66 --> 597.66] Let all that is within us adore. -[597.66 --> 602.66] Oh, come let us adore. -[602.66 --> 632.66] -[632.66 --> 637.66] To heaven's feet. -[637.66 --> 646.66] I will bring my life, my love, my own. -[646.66 --> 655.66] Adore, come let us adore. -[655.66 --> 660.66] Oh, come let us adore. -[660.66 --> 667.66] Oh, come let us adore. -[667.66 --> 670.66] Worship Christ the Lord. -[670.66 --> 680.66] And all that is within us adore. -[680.66 --> 681.66] Oh, come let us adore. -[681.66 --> 683.66] Oh, come let us adore. -[683.66 --> 685.66] Oh, come let us adore. -[685.66 --> 686.66] Oh, come let us adore. -[686.66 --> 690.66] Oh, come let us adore. -[690.66 --> 704.90] Angels sing praises ring to the newborn King. Peace on earth here with us, joy awakening. At your feet we fall. -[706.90 --> 720.50] Angels sing praises ring to the newborn King. Peace on earth here with us, joy awakening. At your feet we fall. -[720.66 --> 735.66] Oh, adore. Come let us adore. Come let us adore. Come let us adore. -[735.66 --> 756.66] Come let us adore. Come let us adore. Come let us adore. -[756.66 --> 780.48] Good morning. Merry Christmas. Welcome to worship. A special welcome if you are a guest with us -[780.48 --> 786.40] this morning. My name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors here, and it's my privilege, along with -[786.40 --> 793.50] these others, to lead us in our shared worship this morning. An extra special welcome if you are here -[793.50 --> 799.76] this morning from Trinity Western University. Thank you for joining us, and we hope that you will -[799.76 --> 804.24] stick around for a lunch. In fact, if you came on the shuttle, you have to stick around for a lunch -[804.24 --> 810.32] because it's not going back there until afterwards, but we're so glad that you can make us your Christmas -[810.32 --> 818.12] family today. Thank you for being here. Before we continue in our Christmas Day worship, just a -[818.12 --> 826.46] couple announcements, some housekeeping stuff for us here at Emanuel. A reminder that this is the season -[826.46 --> 836.76] to sign up for the Mexico mission trip, and so this is grade 10s and older. You can sign up for that. The -[836.76 --> 843.76] sign-up sheets are at the Connect table in the foyer, and so Brandon would also like me to say there's -[843.76 --> 850.84] today's the last day to sign up, although realistically you have another few days to get that done. So please -[850.84 --> 857.30] get the form at the back today. Sign up. Talk to Brandon if you have any questions. Brandon, -[857.44 --> 863.38] wait for a minute. There he is. If you don't know, get connected with him. That trip will happen in March, -[863.38 --> 872.66] sometime in the March break. Also, tomorrow, Boxing Day, we have a church family skate that's going to -[872.66 --> 880.86] take place at Twin Rinks, which is on the bypass, 5700 Langley Bypass, just a little ways over there, -[881.24 --> 888.48] from 2.45 to 3.45. We can skate for that hour, and then we have a room booked for another 45 minutes -[888.48 --> 894.98] after that for hot chocolate and other refreshments, and so please come with your family. Come by yourself -[894.98 --> 901.38] to enjoy some time together and skate. If you don't have skates, that's okay. They have free rentals for -[901.38 --> 909.62] us there at the arena. As well, we wanted to invite everyone to a New Year's Eve worship service, -[909.62 --> 915.20] and so next week, Saturday, December 31st is New Year's Eve, and we're going to have a worship -[915.20 --> 922.50] service here at 6 p.m. So 6 p.m. for a worship service on New Year's Eve, and then the following -[922.50 --> 930.00] Sunday, New Year's Day, we'll have our regularly scheduled 10 o'clock service together. I think that's -[930.00 --> 934.44] it for our announcements, and so I'm going to hand it back to the team, and they're going to lead us -[934.44 --> 946.78] in our first liturgy and some songs. Advent is a season of waiting, waiting for light in the darkness, -[947.86 --> 952.84] waiting to be filled while empty, waiting for the return of the King. -[952.84 --> 965.40] But Christmas has come. The Christ child has arrived. And we know he will come again. His first coming, -[965.58 --> 972.42] though heralded by angels and witnessed by shepherds, was missed by most people. His second -[972.42 --> 980.26] Advent will not be missed by anyone. This year, as we say Merry Christmas, we also say, -[980.26 --> 988.74] Maranatha, come quickly, Lord Jesus. You'll notice this morning in some of our worship songs that we -[988.74 --> 995.14] have a different language and the words of the lyrics of those songs up on the screen as well. So if -[995.14 --> 1002.56] that is a language that you know, we encourage you to sing along in that language. Please stand as we sing. -[1010.26 --> 1038.12] Joy to the Lord, the Lord is God. Let earth be seen our King. Let every heart prepare Him through, and -[1038.12 --> 1048.92] save the Lord come. Let live in 예�半 parts of the hmm. Let every heart prepare Him through, and -[1048.92 --> 1058.08] will its head be seen Malcolm himself as well as moods, he says. Mjatara, come quickly,ク Huffman -[1058.08 --> 1071.08] Joy to the world the Savior is, Let all his walls have gone. -[1071.08 --> 1078.08] While fields and crowds, Rocks, hills and plains, -[1078.08 --> 1085.08] We feed the sounding joy, We feed the sounding joy. -[1085.08 --> 1094.08] We feed the sounding joy, -[1094.08 --> 1103.08] Joy to the world the Savior is, Let all the flowing bread, -[1103.08 --> 1107.08] Though all tough can stand. -[1107.08 --> 1112.08] Joy, drink of all joy, -[1112.08 --> 1116.08] Rise within my soul, -[1116.08 --> 1119.08] Never lets me go. -[1119.08 --> 1134.08] He rules the world with truth and grace, And makes the nations prove. -[1134.08 --> 1149.08] The glories of his righteousness, And wonders of his heart, And wonders of his heart, -[1149.08 --> 1154.06] Berks -[1154.08 --> 1159.08] And Wil 장난 of his life, Deal not all that favor Hasn't пад. -[1159.08 --> 1161.84] Now earth is just one I know teasing. -[1161.84 --> 1167.08] Up the aroma of God, The glory of knowing bread, -[1167.08 --> 1168.08] Do no time can tangle -[1168.08 --> 1171.70] No time can tell -[1171.70 --> 1177.34] Joy, speak of all joy -[1177.34 --> 1181.92] It rises in my soul -[1181.92 --> 1185.24] You never rest in my heart -[1185.24 --> 1191.26] Joy, speak of all joy -[1191.26 --> 1195.08] Overflowing well -[1195.08 --> 1199.52] No time can tell -[1199.52 --> 1205.08] Joy, speak of all joy -[1205.08 --> 1209.08] It rises in my soul -[1209.08 --> 1213.08] You never rest in my heart -[1213.08 --> 1216.42] I love you -[1216.42 --> 1226.42] I love you -[1226.42 --> 1228.42] I love you -[1228.42 --> 1238.42] I love you -[1238.42 --> 1240.42] I love you -[1240.42 --> 1242.42] I love you -[1242.42 --> 1244.42] I love you -[1244.42 --> 1254.42] I love you -[1254.42 --> 1264.42] I love you -[1264.42 --> 1266.42] I love you -[1266.42 --> 1268.42] I love you -[1268.42 --> 1272.42] O come, all ye faithful -[1272.42 --> 1276.42] Joyful and triumphant -[1276.42 --> 1282.42] O come, O come to Bethlehem -[1282.42 --> 1289.42] Thou that behold -[1289.42 --> 1294.42] O'er the King of Ages -[1294.42 --> 1298.42] O come, let us adore Him -[1298.42 --> 1302.42] O come, let us adore Him -[1302.42 --> 1304.42] O come, let us adore Him -[1304.42 --> 1306.42] O come, let us adore Him -[1306.42 --> 1310.42] And Christ the Lord -[1310.42 --> 1312.42] O come, let us adore Him -[1312.42 --> 1313.42] O come, let us adore Him -[1313.42 --> 1314.42] O come, let us adore Him -[1314.42 --> 1330.18] Lord, we bring thee, Lord, this happy morning, Jesus, to thee may all come again. -[1330.18 --> 1344.18] Word of the Father, now in flesh, O be free, O come, let us adore him. -[1344.18 --> 1357.18] O come, let us adore him. O come, let us adore him in Christ the Lord. -[1357.18 --> 1372.18] Sing, choirs of angels, sing in exultation. Sing, holy saints of your heart. -[1372.18 --> 1375.18] Sing, holy saints of the Lord. -[1375.18 --> 1383.18] Glory to God, O glory in the Father. -[1383.18 --> 1387.60] Oh, come let us adore him. -[1387.76 --> 1392.00] Oh, come let us adore him. -[1392.16 --> 1396.10] Oh, come let us adore him. -[1396.10 --> 1396.68] Amen. -[1396.68 --> 1426.66] On Christmas Day, we gather really with Christians around the world celebrating Jesus coming to earth on our behalf to live the life we should have lived and eventually to die the death that we all deserve. -[1427.20 --> 1431.82] And in our worship, we sing, come let us adore him. -[1432.26 --> 1437.72] We gather here because God is in this place and he welcomes us and he greets us. -[1437.72 --> 1444.72] And so I invite you to take a posture of receipt, whatever that looks like for you in your heart and receive the greeting of God. -[1446.34 --> 1455.46] Grace, mercy and peace to you from God, our father, from his son, the Lord Jesus Christ, born on Christmas Day. -[1455.46 --> 1458.62] Through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[1459.12 --> 1459.66] Everyone said? -[1460.62 --> 1461.06] Amen. -[1461.54 --> 1465.88] I'm going to invite you to turn to those around you and to welcome them into worship. -[1466.32 --> 1472.06] You can do that by shaking hands or by giving a fist pump or by nodding if they're not really interested in shaking your hands. -[1472.62 --> 1473.42] Welcome to worship. -[1473.42 --> 1503.40] Thank you. -[1503.42 --> 1504.42] Thank you. -[1505.94 --> 1531.80] Thank you. -[1531.80 --> 1561.78] Thank you. -[1561.80 --> 1591.78] Thank you. -[1591.80 --> 1621.78] Thank you. -[1621.80 --> 1651.78] Thank you. -[1651.80 --> 1681.78] Thank you. -[1681.80 --> 1711.78] Thank you. -[1711.80 --> 1741.78] Thank you. -[1741.80 --> 1771.78] Thank you. -[1771.80 --> 1801.78] Thank you. -[1801.80 --> 1831.78] Thank you. -[1831.80 --> 1861.78] Thank you. -[1861.80 --> 1891.78] Thank you. -[1891.80 --> 1921.78] Thank you. -[1921.80 --> 1951.78] Thank you. -[1951.80 --> 1981.78] Thank you. -[1981.80 --> 2011.78] Thank you. -[2011.80 --> 2041.78] Thank you. -[2041.78 --> 2071.76] Thank you. -[2071.78 --> 2101.76] Thank you. -[2101.78 --> 2131.76] Thank you. -[2131.78 --> 2161.76] Thank you. -[2161.78 --> 2191.76] Thank you. -[2191.76 --> 2221.74] Thank you. -[2221.76 --> 2251.74] Thank you. -[2251.76 --> 2281.74] Thank you. -[2281.76 --> 2311.74] Thank you. -[2311.76 --> 2341.74] Thank you. -[2341.76 --> 2371.74] Thank you. -[2371.76 --> 2401.74] Thank you. -[2401.76 --> 2431.74] Thank you. -[2431.76 --> 2461.76] -[2461.76 --> 2491.74] Thank you. -[2491.74 --> 2521.72] Thank you. -[2521.72 --> 2551.72] -[2551.72 --> 2581.72] Thank you. -[2581.72 --> 2611.70] Thank you. -[2611.72 --> 2641.70] Thank you. -[2641.72 --> 2671.70] Thank you. -[2671.72 --> 2701.70] Thank you. -[2701.72 --> 2731.70] Thank you. -[2731.72 --> 2761.70] Thank you. -[2761.72 --> 2791.70] Thank you. -[2791.72 --> 2821.70] Thank you. -[2821.72 --> 2851.70] Thank you. -[2851.72 --> 2881.70] Thank you. -[2881.72 --> 2911.70] Thank you. -[2911.72 --> 2941.72] Thank you. -[2941.72 --> 2971.70] Thank you. -[2971.70 --> 3001.68] Thank you. -[3001.68 --> 3031.66] Thank you. -[3031.66 --> 3061.66] Thank you. -[3061.66 --> 3091.64] Thank you. -[3091.66 --> 3121.66] And so, -[3121.66 --> 3151.64] and you're in the -[3151.64 --> 3181.62] light, you're in the -[3181.62 --> 3211.60] coming right, you're in the -[3211.60 --> 3241.58] When they're in the -[3241.58 --> 3271.56] The other light, you're in the -[3271.56 --> 3301.54] run and you're in the -[3301.54 --> 3331.52] This sun. -[3331.52 --> 3361.50] All who come in the sky, you're in the -[3361.50 --> 3391.48] The end. -[3391.48 --> 3421.46] And you're in the light of the world. -[3421.46 --> 3451.44] Thank you, God, thank you. -[3451.44 --> 3481.44] Good morning, you're in the -[3481.44 --> 3511.42] and you're in the sky, you're in the -[3511.86 --> 3513.52] and you're in the sky, you're in the low wind, and thank you. -[3513.52 --> 3518.40] And thank you, I'm in the middle of the stairs, and you're in the edge of the circus, and you're in the sky, and you're in the sans They're in the sky, and you're in theים. -[3518.40 --> 3527.04] Dear Jesus, incarnate Christ, Emmanuel, God with us, -[3527.92 --> 3531.24] though centuries have passed since your incarnation and birth, -[3531.48 --> 3537.00] we echo the words of the fourth century poet Prudentius in his work of the Father's love begotten, -[3537.42 --> 3538.16] when he writes, -[3538.92 --> 3540.56] O that birth forever blessed, -[3541.28 --> 3546.80] when the Virgin full of grace by the Holy Ghost conceiving for the Savior of our race, -[3546.80 --> 3553.66] and the babe, the world's Redeemer, first revealed his sacred face evermore and evermore. -[3554.88 --> 3557.38] Your birth is the greatest Christmas gift. -[3558.54 --> 3561.36] Because of your birth, we have hope and joy, -[3562.10 --> 3565.22] knowing that you are faithful to your covenantal promises. -[3566.74 --> 3571.88] Because of your birth, we have a Savior who knows our weaknesses and struggles. -[3571.88 --> 3579.52] Because of your birth, we have become part of a different, better story as your adopted children. -[3580.68 --> 3584.92] Because of your birth, we are no longer slaves to sin and death. -[3585.60 --> 3588.68] Rather, we are free to serve and love. -[3589.78 --> 3593.12] Because of your birth, we have peace and love. -[3593.12 --> 3599.34] And yet, we wait in this already-not-yet world, -[3599.76 --> 3602.50] where we still mourn the loss of loved ones, -[3603.12 --> 3604.88] particularly on days like today. -[3606.12 --> 3610.54] Where we still grieve injustices around the world and in our neighborhoods. -[3611.48 --> 3614.86] Where we still experience sickness and pain. -[3614.86 --> 3618.88] And where we still often accept the world's story, -[3619.78 --> 3625.44] attempting to satisfy our heart's desire with lesser lights than you, the light of the world. -[3627.22 --> 3632.16] Strengthen our faith, opening our eyes to the true beauty of your truth. -[3633.00 --> 3637.96] And comfort our hearts with your presence and your promises yet to be fulfilled. -[3637.96 --> 3641.74] O ye heights of heaven, adore him. -[3642.32 --> 3644.34] Angel hosts, his praises sing. -[3645.02 --> 3647.20] Powers, dominions, bow before him. -[3647.64 --> 3649.54] And extol our God and King. -[3650.26 --> 3652.28] Let no tongue on earth be silent. -[3652.88 --> 3654.64] Every voice in concert sing. -[3655.28 --> 3657.08] Evermore and evermore. -[3659.10 --> 3662.10] While our world is yet filled with the rage of nations, -[3662.78 --> 3666.56] your birth has inaugurated a new everlasting kingdom. -[3666.56 --> 3669.92] As citizens of this divine kingdom, -[3670.48 --> 3675.78] we know that your power is made perfect in weakness, service, and humility. -[3676.92 --> 3681.54] May we adore you and praise you by being your body here on earth. -[3682.46 --> 3686.10] Loving you wholeheartedly and loving others without measure. -[3687.38 --> 3691.16] May we share the good news of your birth and redemptive work. -[3691.16 --> 3697.56] May we be a community of believers that is salt and light in a world that needs you so deeply. -[3699.32 --> 3708.62] Sustain us by your spirit as we strive to bring the hope, joy, peace, and love of your incarnation to the world. -[3708.62 --> 3712.58] Christ to thee with God the Father, -[3713.30 --> 3715.06] and O Holy Ghost to thee, -[3715.78 --> 3720.18] hymn and chant with high thanksgiving and unwearied praises be. -[3721.10 --> 3726.68] Honor, glory, and dominion, and eternal victory evermore and evermore. -[3726.68 --> 3731.00] We eagerly await your return, our glorious King. -[3731.58 --> 3733.32] Come again soon, Lord Jesus. -[3734.36 --> 3734.70] Amen. -[3734.70 --> 3734.80] Amen. -[3734.80 --> 3734.84] Amen. -[3734.84 --> 3734.86] Amen. -[3734.86 --> 3734.90] Amen. -[3734.90 --> 3734.94] Amen. -[3734.94 --> 3734.96] Amen. -[3734.96 --> 3735.00] Amen. -[3735.00 --> 3737.00] Amen. -[3737.00 --> 3739.00] Amen. -[3739.00 --> 3741.00] Amen. -[3741.00 --> 3743.00] Amen. -[3743.00 --> 3745.00] Amen. -[3756.68 --> 3777.72] Amen. -[3777.72 --> 3779.08] Amen. -[3779.08 --> 3780.32] Amen. -[3780.32 --> 3780.38] Amen. -[3780.96 --> 3781.28] Amen. -[3781.50 --> 3782.36] Amen. -[3782.36 --> 3782.82] Amen. -[3783.24 --> 3783.36] Amen. -[3783.36 --> 3784.50] Amen. -[3784.50 --> 3784.94] Amen. -[3784.94 --> 3785.56] Amen. -[3785.56 --> 3785.64] Amen. -[3785.88 --> 3786.56] Amen. -[3786.56 --> 3796.94] as we get there. Before we get into this text, let me start with a story. When I was younger, -[3797.36 --> 3806.20] a kid, one of my favorite movies, and that is still full of nostalgia and memory for me, -[3806.20 --> 3814.36] is the story or the movie called The Never-Ending Story. Now, if you were born in the 80s, -[3814.36 --> 3820.54] you might know it. If you weren't, you might not have any idea who that was or what movie that was -[3820.54 --> 3827.82] because it seemed to disappear for a little while. But it's about a boy who finds a magical book, -[3828.20 --> 3837.14] and as he begins to read this story, hiding in the attic space of a building, we shift perspectives -[3837.14 --> 3844.34] into that story. And then every once in a while, you bounce out of the story he's reading back to -[3844.36 --> 3849.96] the boy in the main drama, and there's a storm that's happening that seems to parallel, a storm -[3849.96 --> 3857.96] that's happening in the story that he's reading. And as you go through the movie, what you begin to -[3857.96 --> 3868.46] realize is that his reading of the book and his participation in its reading is creating the world -[3868.46 --> 3876.38] as he's going. And he has to, at the end, call out the name of the princess in order to save the world -[3876.38 --> 3885.94] inside of the never-ending story. It's this beautiful, like, story within a story. Now, if you haven't seen -[3885.94 --> 3892.06] it, I do entirely recommend it, but I do warn you, it is like 80s stereotypical storytelling. -[3892.06 --> 3902.26] But this type of story is called a nested story, or sometimes it's called an embedded story, or a -[3902.26 --> 3909.68] frame story. Maybe you're familiar with another famous 80s film, The Princess Bride. Same sort of -[3909.68 --> 3917.60] idea, right, where Peter Falk reads a version of the story to Fred Savage, his grandson's character. -[3917.60 --> 3926.40] If you're more literary in your life, the story of the Grand Inquisitor within Dostoyevsky's -[3926.40 --> 3935.34] Brothers Karamazov is another frame story. Now, I introduce this because I want us today to think -[3935.34 --> 3947.48] of the Christmas story as three stories nested together that forms one grand story. Now, the image -[3947.48 --> 3953.46] I'm going to use for us, and we can put it on screen, is that of nesting dolls. Maybe you're familiar -[3953.46 --> 3958.50] with Russian nesting dolls, where the littlest one fits inside the next one, which fits inside the next -[3958.50 --> 3969.38] one. That's how I want us today to think of the Christmas story. Because the reality is, right, in our -[3969.38 --> 3976.66] world, we can so easily focus on the first doll, which, fittingly, on the baby Jesus story, -[3976.66 --> 3985.78] and we become, like, I can't remember his name all of a sudden, Talladega Nights, right, who just loves -[3985.78 --> 3992.54] the baby Jesus, doesn't want to hear anything else other than the baby Jesus, right? And that's all we -[3992.54 --> 4001.06] ever think about. We miss out on the context of where it's going or how we got there. Now, before we get -[4001.06 --> 4007.72] into this, let me clear the air, don't hear what I'm not saying, right? Each aspect of this story is -[4007.72 --> 4015.58] individually important, and it's just as important as the next and the one to follow. But what I hope -[4015.58 --> 4027.00] we can see is that the sum of the grander story, or the sum of the parts, is grander than each doll -[4027.00 --> 4034.68] on its own, and that the grandeur, now, of each part of the story is made all the more magnificent -[4034.68 --> 4044.00] when we see it in relationship to the doll that it nests within. The first part of this Christmas story -[4044.00 --> 4052.92] is the littlest doll in our image. It's the birth of baby Jesus in Bethlehem. Now, the Bible tells us -[4052.92 --> 4060.16] this story in a few places. The one we're going to read is from Matthew 1, and I'll read 18 to 25. -[4063.04 --> 4070.84] This is how the birth of Jesus, the Messiah, came about. His mother Mary was pledged to be married to -[4070.84 --> 4076.42] Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. -[4077.60 --> 4082.72] Because Joseph, her husband, was faithful to the law and yet did not want to expose her to -[4082.72 --> 4089.46] public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, -[4089.58 --> 4092.54] an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, -[4092.72 --> 4100.06] Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived -[4100.06 --> 4106.40] in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, -[4106.40 --> 4114.24] because he will save his people from all their sins. All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had -[4114.24 --> 4119.78] said through the prophet. The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him -[4119.78 --> 4128.48] Emmanuel, which means God with us. When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him, -[4128.50 --> 4134.30] and he took Mary home as his wife. But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son, -[4134.30 --> 4139.12] and he gave him the name Jesus. This is the word of the Lord. -[4141.00 --> 4150.76] Now, right from the beginning of this story, right, you can see how it's nested in a larger story. -[4151.62 --> 4156.16] This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about. Well, what's a Messiah? -[4156.16 --> 4162.32] Right? She was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. Well, who is this Holy Spirit? -[4163.36 --> 4169.18] Right? Our questions of the story and of the reading help us see that there's more to the story -[4169.18 --> 4177.24] than what's going on in the surface level. And this nested nature of the story continues -[4177.24 --> 4184.16] as we read, all this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet. -[4185.70 --> 4192.10] The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Emmanuel, which means -[4192.10 --> 4200.46] God with us. And so you start to see it, right? Right? What's happening in this part of the story -[4200.46 --> 4207.40] in Matthew 1 is part of a bigger story that so many people miss. And even back then, that so many -[4207.40 --> 4214.72] missed what was happening. All this took place to fulfill what the prophet had said. Matthew is telling -[4214.72 --> 4222.56] us about the prophet Isaiah. Isaiah is a prophet in Israel some 700 years before the time of Jesus. He is -[4222.56 --> 4228.34] a prophet before the Israelites are carried away into exile by Babylon and the armies of Nebuchadnezzar. -[4228.34 --> 4234.80] Isaiah is a prophet. Isaiah is a prophet. That means he speaks the word of God and reveals God's will to -[4234.80 --> 4242.34] the people during the reigns of King Uzziah through King Hezekiah and may even still yet be alive in the -[4242.34 --> 4253.76] reign of Manasseh. Now, just a little tidbit. In 2018, archaeologists working in Jerusalem found a clay -[4253.76 --> 4261.26] bulla. A clay bulla is like a piece of clay with a carving in it. It's a stamp that's pushed into wax -[4261.26 --> 4270.46] that's used as a seal to identify a writing or an object as belonging to someone. So they found a clay -[4270.46 --> 4279.86] bulla in Israel that's inscribed with Isaiah the prophet. And they found that just like 10 feet away -[4279.86 --> 4288.62] from where three years before they found a bulla, a fancier one, inscribed with belonging to King Hezekiah. -[4290.44 --> 4298.50] And so the point is, right, that this is a story nested within a story, but it's also a true story. -[4299.22 --> 4305.28] It's also history, right? It happened in the world. And so this is the true story of the whole world. -[4305.28 --> 4311.08] So Isaiah writes, and remember, this is 700 years before Jesus. Isaiah writes, and you can look it up, -[4311.16 --> 4317.94] chapter 7, verse 14, the Lord himself will give you a sign. The virgin will conceive and give birth to a -[4317.94 --> 4327.98] son and will call him Emmanuel. And that's part of what so many people and what is so easy to miss -[4327.98 --> 4336.92] in what Christmas has become in today's world. And for so many, the message of Christmas is about gifts -[4336.92 --> 4343.14] or about Santa or Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer, right? It's about Hallmark Christmas movies and -[4343.14 --> 4349.80] chestnuts roasting on an open fire. And really, to be candid with you, it's not just about these cliche -[4349.80 --> 4355.86] things, right? But it's also become about things that are otherwise really good, right? Things that are -[4355.86 --> 4364.84] a part, by all accounts, a good part of our lives and the world, right? So for many of us, Christmas is -[4364.84 --> 4371.54] all about family, right? It's all about connecting with people. Christmas can be about resting from the -[4371.54 --> 4377.96] hustle and bustle of a workaday life and taking a break, taking some time out of the ordinary busyness -[4377.96 --> 4382.78] of life to be with those people whom you love, to remember those people whom you have lost, -[4382.78 --> 4387.52] and to dwell in the moment of blessing. All of this, right, is good. -[4389.92 --> 4398.34] But if that's what Christmas is all about, you are missing the nested nature of the Christmas story. -[4399.22 --> 4405.40] You're missing the nested nature of what's really going on. Because better than all of those good -[4405.40 --> 4410.02] things, better than the best chocolate you may have got, better than the best gift you may have -[4410.02 --> 4418.82] received, better than the best family reunion you have ever experienced, no matter what it may be, -[4418.96 --> 4426.78] better than all of those things is the truth of Emmanuel, God with us. -[4426.78 --> 4436.20] Because the eyes of our heart, because the focus of our attention this time of year can be so much on -[4436.20 --> 4444.66] other things, we miss the majesty of the God-man. We miss the miracle of the infinite somehow becoming -[4444.66 --> 4452.02] finite. We miss the impossible yet made possible of the transcendent becoming imminent, of God taking on -[4452.02 --> 4460.34] flesh and making his dwelling among us. We miss the truth of God coming as a baby in the manger, heralded by angels, -[4460.48 --> 4470.34] but missed by so many other people. Emmanuel, God with us. That's the Christmas story we don't want you to miss again -[4470.34 --> 4480.28] this year. And that story is actually nested in the grander story, right? Because God with us begs the question, -[4481.48 --> 4491.04] why? Why does he have to come with us? Matthew gets us started in this direction in verse 21 when he writes, -[4491.04 --> 4498.48] He will give birth to a son and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins. -[4499.52 --> 4509.04] You see, the Christmas story is a story of Emmanuel, of God with us to save us from our sins. And so if you -[4509.04 --> 4514.34] want to understand this Christmas story right, you actually have to go right back to the beginning, -[4514.34 --> 4522.40] right? To understand another example of God with us, you have to go right back to the story of the -[4522.40 --> 4530.08] creation and the rebellion of Adam and Eve in the garden against God. Now, I'm not going to read all -[4530.08 --> 4534.20] of it for you, but I'm going to summarize it quickly and a bunch of it will be on the screen as we go. -[4535.06 --> 4540.40] Genesis 1 starts, very first words of the Bible, in the beginning God created the heavens -[4540.40 --> 4545.84] and the earth. And then we get day after day of the creation story where there is light and there -[4545.84 --> 4551.72] is waters, there is land that is gathered up and lights given to govern the land and lights given -[4551.72 --> 4557.78] to, lights given to govern the day and lights given to govern the night. And then the water creatures -[4557.78 --> 4563.80] and the birds are created and land that is producing living creatures, each according to its kind. And -[4563.80 --> 4573.90] then the capstone on day six of creation is humanity. And in Genesis 1 26, God says, let us make mankind in -[4573.90 --> 4580.52] our image, in our likeness, so they may rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the -[4580.52 --> 4586.52] livestock and all the wild animals and over all the creatures that move along the ground. So God created -[4586.52 --> 4594.84] mankind in his own image, in the image of God, he created them male and female, he created them. -[4596.34 --> 4605.74] Not only is the story of creation a story of God with us, but it is a story of us with God. -[4606.28 --> 4613.60] It is a story of us created to be like God in his image. It is a story of God's presence among us, -[4613.60 --> 4619.26] giving us purpose and meaning and grounding us in something bigger than ourselves. It is a story -[4619.26 --> 4626.20] of our relationship to God being the source of our wholeness and our peace, our shalom in the world. -[4626.86 --> 4634.26] It is a story of God living in perfect communion with humanity in the world he created and called good. -[4635.76 --> 4642.54] And it is a story of our rebellion against God, of humanity sinning against our creator, -[4642.54 --> 4648.92] in Genesis 3, again the story continues, you can read how the serpent comes along and tempts -[4648.92 --> 4653.50] the woman and she tempts the man and then God speaks the word of judgment over them all. But -[4653.50 --> 4658.68] there's this beautiful line in Genesis 3 verse 8 where we can read, -[4658.88 --> 4663.84] the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord as he was walking in the garden in the cool -[4663.84 --> 4673.42] of the day. This is a picture of God with us, a picture of God walking among us in the garden, -[4673.56 --> 4683.10] a picture of perfect shalom and our sin wrecked it. God with Adam and Eve walking in the garden and they -[4683.10 --> 4691.44] hid because of their shame. But even in that moment of judgment, if you remember the story, -[4691.44 --> 4695.90] right, even though they were kicked out of the garden, the man and the woman and the serpent -[4695.90 --> 4701.90] were all cursed to one degree or another. Even in that moment, there is a promise of grace. -[4702.96 --> 4708.46] God said to the serpent in Genesis 3 verse 15, he said, I will put enmity between you and the woman -[4708.46 --> 4715.10] in between your offspring and hers. He will crush your head and you will strike his heel. -[4715.10 --> 4723.64] In biblical theology, this verse, Genesis 3 verse 15 is called the first gospel. It is the first -[4723.64 --> 4730.92] promise of Jesus, of Emmanuel. The promise that would be reiterated through Isaiah. The promise -[4730.92 --> 4736.18] that would be spoken again and again and again throughout the entire story of the Old Testament -[4736.18 --> 4745.30] and a promise that finds its fulfillment in Jesus. Because the first part of the story, -[4745.96 --> 4753.04] the littlest doll, is nested within the larger part of this story, we begin to see how the promise -[4753.04 --> 4760.50] of salvation through Emmanuel comes to be necessary, but also how it comes to find its fulfillment -[4760.50 --> 4770.40] fulfillment in Jesus. We also begin to see that the baby Jesus in a manger isn't enough for the story -[4770.40 --> 4777.92] to be effective, right? That is for the serpent to be crushed, for sin to be defeated, for Christmas to -[4777.92 --> 4785.00] have a purpose beyond angels singing and our gift giving. This baby needs to grow into a man, -[4785.00 --> 4791.36] and this man somehow needs to keep the law of God perfectly and somehow in our place and on our behalf -[4791.36 --> 4799.88] grant us his righteousness. We daily prove that we cannot do it, but he must do it. But even that's -[4799.88 --> 4805.32] right, only half of the bigger story, the half of the story of salvation, because even though he was -[4805.32 --> 4812.42] perfect, the penalty and punishment for our sins still need to be paid. And this baby who grows into a man -[4812.42 --> 4822.40] who lived the perfect life will offer himself to die, innocent for the guilty, perfect for the depraved. -[4823.00 --> 4832.54] And that only makes sense when we nest the story of the first doll into the larger doll of creation -[4832.54 --> 4839.78] and our rebellion against God and sin. That only makes sense when we know the truth that the wages of sin -[4839.78 --> 4846.16] is death and that the just response of God to our sin is death and condemnation. -[4848.16 --> 4849.22] And yet, -[4850.32 --> 4853.50] and yet, -[4853.90 --> 4856.46] and yet, -[4856.52 --> 4861.86] those two little words, and yet may be the best words you hear this Christmas. -[4862.80 --> 4863.54] And yet, -[4863.76 --> 4868.28] because Jesus lived the life I should have lived and died the death that I deserved, -[4868.28 --> 4868.72] and yet, -[4868.72 --> 4876.76] because Jesus was raised three days later, victorious over sin and death, because Jesus is with us, -[4877.20 --> 4878.28] God with us, -[4878.42 --> 4878.86] Emmanuel, -[4879.18 --> 4882.58] because God is with us and will be with us, -[4882.80 --> 4884.30] because of Jesus, -[4884.86 --> 4885.14] you, -[4885.62 --> 4885.90] me, -[4886.06 --> 4886.72] and we, -[4887.06 --> 4888.56] by grace through faith, -[4888.64 --> 4891.62] can again be with God. -[4891.76 --> 4894.08] This is the gift of God at Christmas. -[4894.08 --> 4897.26] This is the gift of Emmanuel once again, -[4897.36 --> 4900.06] and this is the gift that keeps on giving, -[4900.18 --> 4903.28] because there's still another layer into this story. -[4903.40 --> 4907.38] There's still another doll in which those first two are still nested. -[4909.58 --> 4913.56] If you've been with us here at Emmanuel through Advent and Christmas, -[4914.22 --> 4918.76] our church has been looking at different stories from the book of Revelation, -[4918.76 --> 4923.64] trying to stir our affections for the return of the King. -[4924.54 --> 4928.32] And as we look today at the story of Emmanuel, -[4928.72 --> 4929.68] God with us, -[4930.10 --> 4933.18] let's read the end of this story. -[4934.04 --> 4935.84] For just as there was a first Advent, -[4936.24 --> 4937.02] a first coming, -[4937.28 --> 4939.00] there will be a second Advent, -[4939.20 --> 4940.92] a second coming of Jesus. -[4941.10 --> 4942.34] And when that happens, -[4942.70 --> 4945.10] listen to how that will be -[4945.10 --> 4947.80] from Revelation 21. -[4951.10 --> 4952.18] Revelation 21, -[4952.36 --> 4953.78] verse 1 through 5. -[4954.78 --> 4957.70] Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, -[4958.18 --> 4961.18] for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, -[4961.40 --> 4963.50] and there was no longer any sea. -[4964.66 --> 4966.26] I saw the holy city, -[4966.38 --> 4967.20] the new Jerusalem, -[4967.40 --> 4969.04] coming down out of heaven from God, -[4969.16 --> 4970.26] prepared as a bride, -[4970.66 --> 4972.20] beautifully dressed for her husband. -[4972.20 --> 4975.48] And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, -[4975.88 --> 4980.28] Look, God's dwelling place is now among the people, -[4980.64 --> 4982.60] and He will dwell with them. -[4983.60 --> 4984.80] They will be His people, -[4984.98 --> 4988.66] and God Himself will be with them and be their God. -[4989.34 --> 4992.04] He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, -[4992.20 --> 4995.36] and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, -[4995.46 --> 4997.86] for the old order of things has passed away. -[4997.86 --> 5001.42] He who was seated on the throne said, -[5001.78 --> 5003.82] I am making everything new. -[5004.74 --> 5005.30] And then He said, -[5005.40 --> 5006.24] Write this down, -[5006.34 --> 5009.66] for these words are trustworthy and true. -[5013.58 --> 5014.50] John writes, -[5014.58 --> 5016.72] I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, -[5016.92 --> 5020.96] Look, God's dwelling place is now among the people, -[5021.20 --> 5022.72] and He will dwell with them. -[5022.72 --> 5024.20] They will be His people, -[5024.40 --> 5029.22] and God Himself will be with them and be their God. -[5029.88 --> 5036.00] The nested story of Christmas is about so much more than a baby called Emmanuel. -[5036.22 --> 5038.30] It is about God called Emmanuel, -[5038.52 --> 5041.72] who walked among His creation and His people in the beginning, -[5041.90 --> 5044.00] and though they rebelled against Him, -[5044.06 --> 5047.78] He will walk among them again as Emmanuel at Christmas, -[5047.78 --> 5054.58] and will yet again dwell among us as Emmanuel at the end of days. -[5054.64 --> 5058.10] This is the full hope of Christmas. -[5058.90 --> 5060.92] And our hearts are hungry. -[5061.72 --> 5065.14] You might even say that the world is haunted. -[5066.28 --> 5067.56] And what we are hungry for, -[5067.62 --> 5070.20] what our souls are longing for, -[5070.28 --> 5072.16] is God with us. -[5072.16 --> 5077.16] He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, -[5077.20 --> 5080.08] and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, -[5080.20 --> 5083.22] for the old order of things has passed away. -[5083.52 --> 5086.22] This is the grander story, -[5086.36 --> 5090.68] this story of Christmas that includes the end and the beginning, -[5090.96 --> 5095.06] the story of Christmas that, yes, starts with Jesus in a manger, -[5095.18 --> 5098.26] but is the fulfillment of a promise given at creation, -[5098.26 --> 5102.14] and will yet be fulfilled at the end of history. -[5102.76 --> 5108.48] The Christmas story is three stories nested together to form one grand story, -[5108.60 --> 5113.90] and I pray, I pray that you will make that your story this Christmas. -[5116.22 --> 5117.40] And if you do, -[5118.90 --> 5120.38] if you do, -[5121.82 --> 5122.30] oh boy, -[5122.68 --> 5126.06] that changes everything. -[5126.06 --> 5132.66] The truth of Christmas being God's climactic answer to sin in the world, -[5132.90 --> 5134.34] a world that He created, -[5134.92 --> 5138.70] and for the purpose of us being in perfect shalom, -[5138.92 --> 5140.22] fellowship, communion with Him, -[5140.52 --> 5146.00] a story that doesn't end until He returns and restores all things, -[5146.32 --> 5148.96] this truth changes everything, -[5149.08 --> 5150.26] not just about the future, -[5150.50 --> 5152.66] but about your life right now, -[5153.52 --> 5154.80] in this moment. -[5154.80 --> 5159.96] Not only are we saved from sin and restored in relationship to God, -[5160.20 --> 5162.84] which alone is enough to want to sing His praises. -[5164.66 --> 5165.06] Amen? -[5166.46 --> 5168.00] Oh, you guys are going to get there with me. -[5168.06 --> 5168.86] We're going to do it today, okay? -[5171.70 --> 5173.84] Even that is enough to sing His praises. -[5174.58 --> 5177.84] But, because this story changes everything right now, -[5177.84 --> 5181.12] it also changes what you do and how you do it. -[5181.18 --> 5182.98] And so, even now, -[5183.40 --> 5185.24] doing natural sciences -[5185.24 --> 5188.52] is imbued with a new and a glorious meaning. -[5189.20 --> 5189.72] Even now, -[5189.86 --> 5192.26] studying at university is for the glory of God -[5192.26 --> 5194.02] and for the revealing of His kingdom -[5194.02 --> 5197.22] and celebration of what God is doing in the world. -[5197.54 --> 5198.20] Even now, -[5198.36 --> 5202.02] writing code and designing the next leap in computer technology, -[5202.02 --> 5207.88] is changed when you see it as part of this grand story. -[5208.92 --> 5211.02] Growing plants and flowers, -[5211.46 --> 5214.26] cultivating the garden that is God's good creation, -[5214.42 --> 5216.82] is an act of kingdom service. -[5218.02 --> 5219.48] Even now, -[5219.62 --> 5221.46] your story is changed. -[5221.46 --> 5223.54] The truth is, -[5224.02 --> 5227.28] this nested Christmas story -[5227.28 --> 5230.18] that encapsulates the very beginning -[5230.18 --> 5231.84] all the way to the very end, -[5232.14 --> 5235.92] this Christmas story changes everything. -[5237.68 --> 5241.88] But only if you know it as part of the grander story. -[5243.72 --> 5246.60] And only if you find your place within it. -[5247.62 --> 5248.44] And so, this Christmas, -[5248.64 --> 5250.30] I pray you find your place -[5250.30 --> 5252.22] in the grander story. -[5252.36 --> 5253.78] And that in the grander story, -[5253.94 --> 5255.20] you might see -[5255.20 --> 5256.68] the grandeur -[5256.68 --> 5258.36] of Jesus. -[5259.20 --> 5259.52] Amen? -[5260.60 --> 5261.16] Amen. -[5261.66 --> 5262.40] Let's pray together. -[5267.26 --> 5268.20] Lord our God, -[5268.30 --> 5270.72] you are so good -[5270.72 --> 5271.60] to us. -[5272.70 --> 5273.92] May we see you, -[5274.16 --> 5275.00] God Emmanuel, -[5275.58 --> 5276.68] God with us -[5276.68 --> 5279.08] in the face of Jesus today. -[5279.08 --> 5280.50] and may our hearts' -[5281.14 --> 5282.56] longings be stirred -[5282.56 --> 5284.40] as we wait for the day -[5284.40 --> 5285.70] of your great return. -[5286.48 --> 5287.24] And until then, -[5287.42 --> 5287.80] Lord God, -[5287.90 --> 5289.08] may every aspect -[5289.08 --> 5290.22] of who we are -[5290.22 --> 5291.08] and what we do -[5291.08 --> 5292.74] be lived for you, -[5293.06 --> 5294.16] lived out of this -[5294.16 --> 5295.04] great, -[5295.44 --> 5296.78] grand story. -[5298.18 --> 5299.14] In you, -[5299.42 --> 5300.16] Lord God, -[5300.30 --> 5302.64] we find our purpose. -[5303.38 --> 5304.08] In you, -[5304.30 --> 5305.08] Lord Jesus, -[5305.30 --> 5307.38] we find our hope. -[5307.38 --> 5308.90] in you, -[5309.12 --> 5309.82] Lord Jesus, -[5309.82 --> 5311.44] we come to know -[5311.44 --> 5313.22] a new family. -[5314.50 --> 5316.36] You are the true -[5316.36 --> 5317.54] and better gift -[5317.54 --> 5319.22] and you have given us -[5319.22 --> 5320.86] a new family, -[5321.00 --> 5322.14] the bride of Christ, -[5322.28 --> 5323.84] the church of Jesus, -[5324.22 --> 5326.84] the family of God. -[5328.12 --> 5329.94] As part of this family, -[5330.06 --> 5331.24] by grace through faith, -[5331.42 --> 5332.58] we sing your praises -[5332.58 --> 5333.54] and we live -[5333.54 --> 5336.20] in praise of you. -[5337.62 --> 5338.38] Grant us that -[5338.38 --> 5339.20] this Christmas. -[5339.64 --> 5340.38] Open our eyes -[5340.38 --> 5341.12] to the truth -[5341.12 --> 5342.48] of who you are. -[5342.60 --> 5343.54] In Jesus' name -[5343.54 --> 5344.06] we pray. -[5345.06 --> 5345.44] Amen. -[5345.44 --> 5345.54] Amen. -[5354.92 --> 5355.94] Please stand -[5355.94 --> 5356.56] as we sing -[5356.56 --> 5357.46] Almost Home. -[5357.46 --> 5383.78] Don't want to sing -[5383.78 --> 5391.96] H walked in the lake, we're almost home, through every toilet danger, we're almost home. -[5391.96 --> 5400.56] How many pilgrim saints have before us gone, no stopping now, we're almost home. -[5400.56 --> 5409.18] The promised land is dying, we're almost home -[5409.18 --> 5414.18] And not a tear shall fall, then we're almost home -[5414.18 --> 5418.02] Make merry, mail yourselves for the kingdom -[5418.02 --> 5423.02] Don't turn it back, we're almost home -[5423.02 --> 5429.22] Almost home, we're almost home -[5429.22 --> 5433.84] So kiss our joy, the blessed shore, we're almost home -[5433.84 --> 5436.94] We're almost home -[5436.94 --> 5445.20] This journey ours together, we're almost home -[5445.20 --> 5450.28] Unto the great forever, we're almost home -[5450.28 --> 5455.38] One song as new we'll sing from that happy's home -[5455.38 --> 5459.26] Come feet apart, we're almost home -[5459.26 --> 5465.10] Almost home, we're almost home -[5465.10 --> 5470.24] So kiss our joy, the blessed shore, we're almost home -[5470.24 --> 5473.96] We're almost home -[5473.96 --> 5481.74] This land is just a baby, we're almost home -[5481.74 --> 5486.90] The sun is setting yonder, we're almost home -[5486.90 --> 5492.12] Take courage for this darkness, you'll breathe to die -[5492.12 --> 5496.00] Oh, lift your eyes, we're almost home -[5496.00 --> 5501.84] Almost home, we're almost home -[5501.84 --> 5507.24] So kiss our joy, the blessed shore, oh praise the Lord -[5507.24 --> 5510.34] We're almost home -[5510.34 --> 5530.10] He became sick, who knew no sin -[5530.10 --> 5534.98] That we might be home, his righteousness -[5534.98 --> 5544.14] He humbled itself, and carried the cross -[5544.14 --> 5547.66] Love so amazing -[5547.66 --> 5553.82] Love so amazing -[5553.82 --> 5559.70] Jesus, Messiah -[5559.70 --> 5568.38] Name above all things -[5568.38 --> 5571.70] Blessed Redeemer -[5571.70 --> 5576.14] Emmanuel -[5576.14 --> 5580.02] Emmanuel -[5580.02 --> 5582.02] The rescue for sinners -[5582.02 --> 5584.02] The rescue for sinners -[5584.02 --> 5590.02] The ransom of heaven -[5590.02 --> 5594.02] Jesus, Messiah -[5594.02 --> 5598.02] Lord of all -[5598.02 --> 5599.38] Lord of all -[5599.38 --> 5604.34] His voice -[5604.34 --> 5608.42] His body -[5608.42 --> 5610.36] His heart -[5610.36 --> 5611.46] His heart -[5611.46 --> 5612.90] His blood -[5612.90 --> 5613.44] His blood -[5613.44 --> 5613.90] The world -[5613.90 --> 5617.34] K viis -[5617.34 --> 5617.84] His heart -[5617.84 --> 5625.84] And cried -[5625.84 --> 5635.40] And Israel is always racing Love so amazing -[5635.40 --> 5647.58] Jesus Messiah Fame above all things -[5647.58 --> 5652.58] the blessed regever -[5652.58 --> 5658.58] the annual hell -[5658.58 --> 5663.58] the rescue for sinners -[5663.58 --> 5669.58] the ransom from heaven -[5669.58 --> 5675.58] Jesus Messiah -[5675.58 --> 5681.58] the Lord of all -[5681.58 --> 5687.58] all our hope is in you -[5687.58 --> 5692.58] all our hope is in you -[5692.58 --> 5698.58] all the glory to you -[5698.58 --> 5704.58] the light of the world -[5705.58 --> 5711.58] Jesus Messiah -[5711.58 --> 5716.58] name above all names -[5716.58 --> 5721.58] blessed Redeemer -[5721.58 --> 5727.58] Emmanuel -[5727.58 --> 5731.58] the rescue for sinners -[5731.58 --> 5738.58] the ransom from heaven -[5738.58 --> 5744.58] Jesus Messiah -[5744.58 --> 5746.58] Lord of all -[5746.58 --> 5748.58] Jesus Messiah -[5748.58 --> 5750.58] Lord of all -[5750.58 --> 5752.58] Jesus Messiah -[5752.58 --> 5754.58] Lord of all -[5754.58 --> 5760.58] Lord of all -[5760.58 --> 5764.58] Lord of all -[5764.58 --> 5766.58] Lord of all -[5766.58 --> 5770.58] Lord of all -[5770.58 --> 5772.58] Lord of all -[5772.58 --> 5785.58] Lord of all -[5785.58 --> 5786.58] Lord of all -[5786.58 --> 5788.58] Lord of all -[5788.58 --> 5795.48] and so please stick around for that, share some time, life, and story together. And then eventually -[5795.48 --> 5803.68] for the TWU students and for those who are hosting, we will transition into our lunch together, -[5803.68 --> 5808.52] but we're not rushing into any of that, and so please stick around and let us get to know you -[5808.52 --> 5818.34] all a little bit. Before you go, receive the blessing of our God. May God go before you. -[5818.58 --> 5826.10] To prepare a way for you. May God go behind you to protect you. May God go beneath you to support -[5826.10 --> 5834.18] you, and may God himself in Jesus Emmanuel go beside you to befriend you. Do not be afraid. -[5834.58 --> 5841.74] Let the blessing and peace of God come upon you this Christmas. Do not be afraid, but go in peace -[5841.74 --> 5845.74] to love and serve the Lord. Amen. -[5845.74 --> 5845.90] Amen. -[5845.90 --> 5852.22] There's a Christmas tradition in our church that's reflective of some of the Dutch heritage -[5852.22 --> 5858.30] that some of our members come from. It's to close the Christmas Day service with the next -[5858.30 --> 5864.58] song called Glory to God, also known as Ere Se God. We will have the words on the screen behind -[5864.58 --> 5869.26] us in both Dutch and English. We invite you and encourage you all to sing it in whatever -[5869.26 --> 5871.26] language you feel most comfortable with. -[5871.26 --> 5872.26] Any time? -[5872.26 --> 5881.26] It is okay. -[5881.26 --> 5886.84] Oh, mercy, Lord . . . . verlier óse your sight -[5886.84 --> 5900.26] in the highest, in the highest, in the highest, in the highest. The highest, in the high. -[5900.26 --> 5930.24] Oh, Lord. -[5930.26 --> 5960.24] Oh, Lord. -[5960.26 --> 5970.00] He is the honouring to the people, to the people. -[5970.48 --> 5974.98] Oh, God delights him. -[5974.98 --> 5980.16] Oh, God delights him. -[5980.52 --> 5984.98] Oh, God delights him. -[5984.98 --> 5990.98] Oh, God delights him. -[5990.98 --> 5994.98] Oh, God delights him. -[5994.98 --> 5997.98] Oh, God delights him. -[5997.98 --> 6001.98] Oh, God delights him. -[6001.98 --> 6004.98] Oh, God delights him. -[6004.98 --> 6011.98] Oh, God delights him. -[6011.98 --> 6014.98] Oh, God delights him. -[6014.98 --> 6018.98] Oh, God delights him. -[6018.98 --> 6026.98] Oh, God delights him. -[6026.98 --> 6028.98] Oh, God delights him. -[6028.98 --> 6034.98] Oh, God delights him. -[6034.98 --> 6038.98] Oh, God delights him. -[6038.98 --> 6040.98] Oh, God delights him. -[6040.98 --> 6047.08] Oh, God delights him. -[6047.08 --> 6050.98] Oh, God delights him. -[6050.98 --> 6053.46] Oh, God delights him. -[6053.46 --> 6057.98] Oh, God delights him. -[6058.78 --> 6060.54] Oh, God delights him. -[6060.54 --> 6090.52] Thank you. -[6090.54 --> 6120.52] Thank you. -[6120.54 --> 6150.52] Thank you. -[6150.54 --> 6180.52] Thank you. -[6180.54 --> 6210.52] Thank you. -[6210.54 --> 6240.52] Thank you. diff --git a/Christmas Day - Saturday, December 25, 2021_summary.txt b/Christmas Day - Saturday, December 25, 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index e32c02e14e653a44e0d1a1763eea8d883f4a76b3..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Christmas Day - Saturday, December 25, 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,71 +0,0 @@ -• Repeated phrase "We'll be right back" -• Praise to Christ and His name -• Christmas carols (e.g. "Joy to the World", "Oh Night Divine") -• Scriptural references to Jesus as savior and king -• Prayers for light, hope, love, joy, and peace -• Mention of authority and justice through Jesus' birth -• Jesus Christ's birth and significance -• Welcome to worship service, Christmas celebration -• Invitation for all people to come and worship -• Hymns and songs of praise (O Come, All Ye Faithful) -• Repeated phrases of adoration and praise to God -• Christmas carols sung, including "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" and "Away in a Manger" -• Discussion of the importance of Jesus' birth amidst chaos and uncertainty -• Reflection on the world's problems, such as conflict, fear, and isolation -• Mention of COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on daily life -• Celebration of Jesus' coming into a broken world with comforting words -• Ongoing support services provided by Night Shift, including counseling, Bible studies, and hot meals -• Langley outreach service and commitment from the church to serve every second month -• Donations for ongoing support -• Reading of the Christmas story from Matthew chapter 1 verses 18-24 -• Prayer for the word of God to be spoken and planted in hearts -• The story of Jesus' birth and name -• The concept of "un-hallmark Christmas" and deconstructing cultural influences on Christmas -• Frustration with commercialization of Christmas -• The importance of Advent and liturgy of waiting for the coming light -• Re-narrating lives in the truth of the gospel and Jesus' coming again -• The source of meaning and how it is found, particularly through a Christian perspective -• Relationship to God is fundamental to understanding truth, goodness, and beauty -• General revelation: God reveals himself through creation's order, majesty, and beauty -• Special revelation: God's word and story provide ultimate meaning and purpose -• Meaning and purpose come from living in a purposive relationship with God as the true God and source of all good -• Deconstructing faith within the context of community -• The importance of rooting oneself in the true story of Jesus -• Christmas as a reminder of something more and transcendent -• The human longing for meaning and magic in an increasingly disenchanted world -• The need for an experience of deeper magic -• The Bible's book of Ecclesiastes states that eternity is set within every human heart. -• Christmas gives a glimpse into eternity through the birth of Jesus, who entered time as Emmanuel (God with us). -• The virgin Mary became pregnant with Jesus through the Holy Spirit, and his birth was prophesied to fulfill God's plan. -• The true story of Christmas is the incarnation, where God took on flesh to ransom humanity from sin. -• The meaning in life comes from embracing this true story of Christmas. -• The importance of historical roots in a story -• Use of genealogies to tie events to history -• Inclusion of unseemly characters as an argument for the story's truth -• First witnesses being shepherds and women as evidence of the story's authenticity -• Inclusion of pagans and non-Jewish elements in the story of Jesus' birth -• The significance of the truth mattering to those who hear the story -• The story of Jesus has been challenged and deconstructed, but the goal is to bring people closer to the true Jesus. -• It's easy to substitute a personal version of Jesus for the one described in the Bible. -• A fictional example from "American Gods" illustrates how different cultures have created their own versions of gods, including multiple Jesuses. -• The TV adaptation of "American Gods" takes this concept further, showing various Jesuses based on Western cultural influences. -• Different images or versions of Jesus (feminine, hipster, hippie) -• Preferences for a Jesus that fits one's needs or beliefs -• Distinction between a historical/safe Jesus and an active/involved Jesus -• Various expectations of Jesus' role in life (Savior, Lord, teacher) -• Importance of seeking the real Jesus over substitutes or lesser versions -• The true meaning of Jesus' birth and significance -• Finding meaning and purpose in life through a relationship with Jesus -• Understanding the importance of Jesus' teachings and word -• The reality of Jesus as king of the universe and savior from sin and death -• The hope of Jesus' return and second coming -• The relationship between God and humanity, specifically through Jesus Christ -• The mystery of God's meekness and majesty -• The significance of Christmas and the birth of Jesus -• Inviting God to go with us as we face challenges in our lives -• Receiving God's blessing for the day ahead -• Going out into the world to love and serve the Lord -• Discussion of a Christmas tradition in the church that reflects Dutch heritage -• Performance of a song with lyrics displayed on screens in English and Dutch -• Invitation to sing together in either language -• Conclusion of service with repeated expression of gratitude and thanks \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Christmas Day - Saturday, December 25, 2021_transcript.txt b/Christmas Day - Saturday, December 25, 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 331162739a2e59bccefdd6da195fbc439c49e970..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Christmas Day - Saturday, December 25, 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1568 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] We'll be right back. -[30.00 --> 59.98] We'll be right back. -[60.00 --> 89.98] We'll be right back. -[90.00 --> 119.98] We'll be right back. -[119.98 --> 149.96] We'll be right back. -[149.96 --> 179.94] We'll be right back. -[179.94 --> 209.92] We'll be right back. -[209.92 --> 239.90] We'll be right back. -[239.90 --> 269.88] We'll be right back. -[269.90 --> 299.88] We'll be right back. -[299.88 --> 301.88] We'll be right back. -[329.88 --> 331.88] We'll be right back. -[359.88 --> 361.88] We'll be right back. -[389.88 --> 391.88] We'll be right back. -[391.88 --> 395.88] We'll be right back. -[395.88 --> 399.88] We'll be right back. -[399.88 --> 429.88] -[429.88 --> 435.88] We'll be right back. -[435.88 --> 437.88] We'll be right back. -[437.88 --> 441.88] We'll be right back. -[441.88 --> 443.88] We'll be right back. -[443.88 --> 445.88] We'll be right back. -[445.88 --> 447.88] We'll be right back. -[447.88 --> 451.88] We'll be right back. -[451.88 --> 456.22] Praise His holy name. -[456.80 --> 463.88] Christ is the Lord. -[465.10 --> 471.96] Praise His name forever. -[471.96 --> 484.38] His power and glory evermore. -[484.38 --> 487.86] Evermore proclaim. -[490.00 --> 501.42] His power and glory evermore. -[501.96 --> 504.62] Evermore proclaim. -[531.96 --> 536.96] His power and glory evermore. -[536.96 --> 545.82] Fall on your knees. -[545.82 --> 552.82] Oh, hear the angel voices. -[554.82 --> 560.82] Oh, night divine. -[560.82 --> 565.58] Oh, night. -[565.82 --> 570.82] When Christ was born. -[570.82 --> 577.82] Oh, night divine. -[577.82 --> 584.82] Oh, night divine. -[584.82 --> 586.82] Oh, night divine. -[586.82 --> 590.82] Oh, night divine. -[590.82 --> 605.82] Oh, night divine. -[605.82 --> 627.44] Light of the world, treasure of heaven, brilliant like the stars in the wintry sky. -[627.44 --> 637.02] Joy of the Father, reach through the darkness, shine across the earth. -[637.02 --> 660.02] Joy to the world, the Lord is come. -[660.02 --> 667.02] Let earth receive her King. -[667.02 --> 677.02] Let every heart prepare Him room. -[677.02 --> 684.02] Let heaven and nature sing. -[684.02 --> 692.02] Let heaven and nature sing. -[692.02 --> 704.02] Joy to the earth, the Savior reigns. -[704.02 --> 711.02] Let all their songs and songs. -[711.02 --> 726.02] What fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains, repeat the sounding joy. -[726.02 --> 741.02] Repeat, repeat the sounding joy. -[741.02 --> 748.02] Let all our sin and sorrow grow. -[748.02 --> 756.02] Your thoughts infest the ground. -[756.02 --> 763.02] He comes to make His blessings flow. -[763.02 --> 769.02] For as the curse is found. -[769.02 --> 775.02] For as the curse is found. -[775.02 --> 782.02] For as the curse is found. -[782.02 --> 792.02] He rules the world with truth and grace. -[792.02 --> 799.02] And makes the nations rule. -[799.02 --> 809.02] The glories of His righteousness. -[809.02 --> 813.02] And wonders of His love. -[813.02 --> 818.02] And wonders of His love. -[818.02 --> 827.02] And wonders of His love. -[827.02 --> 829.02] You learn to swear to God. -[829.02 --> 830.02] You assumed always Hat day slime lives from you. -[830.02 --> 831.02] Efenasius of talism. -[831.02 --> 836.02] He loved everything in setzen and sleeps the ions it takes down to you. -[836.02 --> 837.02] Therefore, when there is an angel. -[837.02 --> 838.02] See us Informerniaelah, personal absolutes from you. -[838.02 --> 839.02] The Mukurt!!! -[839.02 --> 840.02] Miss active has taught me what's proof. -[840.02 --> 841.02] What's NBC 95 00489112100AS. -[841.02 --> 842.02] It00syeジェクiatwomen,, -[842.02 --> 844.02] er offset the truth in the military. -[844.02 --> 845.02] It00sye menses in dynamite. -[845.02 --> 848.02] But of my own evil, -[848.02 --> 849.52] It00sye cms me you cannot det. -[849.52 --> 851.52] Despite the Royal Prince the King. -[851.52 --> 852.62] For as supernatural services, -[852.62 --> 854.02] people may not eat. -[854.02 --> 854.52] It00s意 thể이스를 listen. -[854.52 --> 855.92] Lo yor Zen and econ 73% -[855.92 --> 882.28] We who have walked in darkness have seen a great light. -[882.28 --> 889.00] We who have lived in a land of deep darkness have had the light of hope, love, joy, and -[889.00 --> 891.44] peace shined on us. -[891.44 --> 895.20] For the yoke of our burden has been broken. -[895.20 --> 899.46] For the rod of the oppressor has been broken. -[899.46 --> 903.88] We call him one for a child has been born to us. -[903.88 --> 906.88] And all authority rests on his shoulders. -[906.88 --> 910.46] We call him Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God. -[910.46 --> 913.90] We call him Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. -[913.90 --> 917.46] The Lord establishes his kingdom with justice and righteousness. -[917.46 --> 920.90] For this is the Christ on whom we have waited. -[920.90 --> 924.34] We pray. -[924.34 --> 925.34] We pray. -[925.34 --> 929.78] Mighty God, you have sent us your son in whom we find our hope, who teaches us love, who -[929.78 --> 931.34] teaches us joy, and rules with peace. -[931.34 --> 938.34] In this baby we have seen the Christ and his kingdom, which breaks the oppressive powers -[938.34 --> 939.34] of this world. -[939.34 --> 944.34] May the light of your kingdom shine from this time onward and forevermore. -[944.34 --> 945.78] In Jesus' name we pray. -[945.78 --> 946.78] Amen. -[946.78 --> 971.78] Merry Christmas. -[971.78 --> 972.78] Merry Christmas. -[972.78 --> 973.78] Merry Christmas. -[973.78 --> 975.78] Oh, wow. -[975.78 --> 978.22] That was very robotic of you. -[978.22 --> 979.22] Well done. -[979.22 --> 982.78] Welcome to worship. -[982.78 --> 986.22] A special welcome if you are visiting with us this morning. -[986.22 --> 987.22] My name is Chris. -[987.22 --> 989.22] I'm one of the pastors here. -[989.22 --> 996.50] It's my privilege along with these others to lead us in our Christmas worship today. -[996.50 --> 1001.42] If you are joining us online, congratulations on not having to make it through the snow to -[1001.42 --> 1001.88] get here. -[1001.88 --> 1005.52] For those of you who made it through the snow, congratulations on making it here safely. -[1006.08 --> 1011.22] If you didn't make it here safely, you can't hear me right now, so we'll talk after. -[1011.22 --> 1018.88] This morning, as we come together, we come to celebrate Jesus Christ who came. -[1018.88 --> 1023.82] He calls us into his presence this morning. -[1023.82 --> 1032.06] He says, all God's people, boys and girls, women and men, come and worship. -[1032.98 --> 1038.46] Shepherds, magi, saints and sinners, come and worship. -[1038.46 --> 1048.06] Outsiders, outcasts, unlikely witnesses, pagan worshipers, friends and family, come and worship. -[1049.26 --> 1055.12] All who need a Savior, all who long for comfort, come and worship. -[1055.12 --> 1059.36] Come and worship Christ, the newborn King. -[1060.36 --> 1064.42] It's in his name that we come together this morning. -[1065.08 --> 1067.18] God welcomes us into this place. -[1067.18 --> 1068.68] The Lord be with you. -[1072.76 --> 1079.38] Grace, mercy, and peace to you this Christmas day. -[1080.28 --> 1087.20] From God our Father, from Lord Jesus Christ, his Son and our Savior, born today through the -[1087.20 --> 1089.88] presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[1090.48 --> 1093.02] All God's people said, amen. -[1093.38 --> 1095.06] Let's worship our God in song together. -[1095.06 --> 1095.16] Amen. -[1097.18 --> 1099.18] Amen. -[1099.18 --> 1103.10] The word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. -[1103.76 --> 1105.00] O come, all ye faithful. -[1106.02 --> 1110.60] Come, let us adore him, for he is Christ the Lord. -[1110.60 --> 1110.68] Amen. -[1110.68 --> 1124.10] O come, all ye faithful. -[1124.10 --> 1127.46] Joyful and triumphant. -[1127.46 --> 1137.40] O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem. -[1137.40 --> 1147.32] Come and behold him, for the king of angels. -[1147.32 --> 1153.22] O come, let us adore him. -[1153.22 --> 1157.18] O come, let us adore him. -[1157.18 --> 1159.18] Oh -[1187.18 --> 1189.18] Oh -[1189.18 --> 1191.18] Oh -[1195.18 --> 1197.18] Oh -[1197.18 --> 1199.18] Oh -[1201.18 --> 1203.18] Oh -[1205.18 --> 1207.18] Oh -[1209.18 --> 1211.18] Oh -[1211.18 --> 1213.18] Oh -[1213.18 --> 1215.18] Oh -[1215.18 --> 1217.18] Oh -[1221.18 --> 1223.18] Oh -[1223.18 --> 1225.18] Oh -[1225.18 --> 1227.18] Oh -[1231.18 --> 1233.18] Oh -[1233.18 --> 1235.18] Oh -[1235.18 --> 1237.18] Oh -[1241.18 --> 1243.18] Oh -[1243.18 --> 1245.18] Oh -[1245.18 --> 1247.18] Oh -[1247.18 --> 1249.18] Glory -[1249.18 --> 1251.18] In the highest -[1251.18 --> 1253.18] Oh -[1253.18 --> 1255.18] Come let us adore -[1255.18 --> 1257.18] Him -[1257.18 --> 1259.18] Oh -[1259.18 --> 1261.18] Come let us adore -[1261.18 --> 1263.18] Him -[1263.18 --> 1265.18] Oh -[1265.18 --> 1267.18] Come let us adore -[1267.18 --> 1269.18] Him -[1269.18 --> 1271.18] Praise -[1271.18 --> 1273.18] The Lord -[1273.18 --> 1275.18] Yea -[1275.18 --> 1277.18] Lord we greet -[1277.18 --> 1279.18] Thee -[1279.18 --> 1281.18] Born this happy -[1281.18 --> 1283.18] Morning -[1283.18 --> 1285.18] Jesus -[1285.18 --> 1287.18] To Thee -[1287.18 --> 1289.18] We all -[1289.18 --> 1291.18] Glory -[1291.18 --> 1293.18] Give -[1293.18 --> 1295.18] Word -[1295.18 --> 1297.18] Word -[1297.18 --> 1299.18] On the Father -[1299.18 --> 1301.18] Now in -[1301.18 --> 1303.18] Flesh appearing -[1303.18 --> 1305.18] Oh -[1305.18 --> 1307.18] Come let us adore -[1307.18 --> 1309.18] Him -[1309.18 --> 1311.18] Oh -[1311.18 --> 1313.18] Come let us adore -[1313.18 --> 1315.18] Him -[1315.18 --> 1317.18] Oh -[1317.18 --> 1319.18] Come let us adore -[1319.18 --> 1321.18] Him -[1321.18 --> 1323.18] Praise -[1323.18 --> 1325.18] The Lord -[1325.18 --> 1327.18] The Lord -[1327.18 --> 1329.18] The Lord -[1329.18 --> 1331.18] The Lord -[1331.18 --> 1333.18] The Lord -[1333.18 --> 1335.18] Hark -[1335.18 --> 1337.18] The -[1337.18 --> 1349.18] Hark the herald angels sing -[1349.18 --> 1353.18] Glory to the newborn King -[1353.18 --> 1359.38] peace on earth and mercy mild -[1359.38 --> 1364.18] God and sinners reconciled -[1364.70 --> 1369.18] joyful all ye nations rise -[1369.90 --> 1374.18] join the triumph of the skies -[1375.12 --> 1379.18] with angelic hopes proclaim -[1379.18 --> 1385.34] Christ is born in Bethlehem -[1385.34 --> 1390.18] Hark the herald angels sing -[1390.72 --> 1396.18] Glory to the newborn King -[1397.40 --> 1402.52] Christ the highest heaven adored -[1402.52 --> 1407.18] Christ the everlasting Lord -[1407.18 --> 1412.18] Late in time behold him God -[1412.74 --> 1417.18] Offspring of the virgin's womb -[1417.98 --> 1422.18] Failed in flesh the Godhead see -[1423.18 --> 1427.18] Hail the darned deity -[1427.18 --> 1433.30] Pleased his man with us to dwell -[1433.30 --> 1437.18] Jesus our Emmanuel -[1437.18 --> 1443.18] Lord the herald angels sing -[1443.74 --> 1449.18] Glory to the newborn King -[1449.18 --> 1455.18] Hail the heaven-born Prince of Peace -[1455.18 --> 1460.18] Hail the Son of Righteousness -[1460.18 --> 1466.18] Light and life to all he brings -[1466.18 --> 1471.18] Risen with healing in his wings -[1471.18 --> 1476.18] While he lays his glory by -[1476.18 --> 1481.18] Born that we no more may die -[1481.18 --> 1486.18] Born to raise us from the earth -[1486.18 --> 1490.18] Born to sin a second birth -[1490.18 --> 1492.18] A second birth -[1492.18 --> 1497.18] On the herald angels sing -[1497.18 --> 1502.18] Glory to the newborn King -[1502.18 --> 1504.18] Lord King -[1504.18 --> 1507.18] All right, invite you to be seated -[1507.18 --> 1510.18] I was wondering if we could get the kids up here -[1510.18 --> 1513.18] We're going to be singing a song that you guys know really well -[1513.18 --> 1514.18] Away in the manger -[1514.18 --> 1517.18] Does anybody want to come up and help us sing that song? -[1518.18 --> 1519.18] Let's come up here -[1519.18 --> 1520.18] Let's come up here -[1520.18 --> 1522.18] Oh, I see some kids are coming up -[1523.18 --> 1524.18] Good -[1524.18 --> 1525.18] Come on up -[1525.18 --> 1527.18] We can stand up and we can look at our parents -[1528.18 --> 1529.18] All right, we can stand up here -[1530.18 --> 1533.18] Anybody else want to come up and help us sing it? -[1534.18 --> 1535.18] Does anybody know the actions to it? -[1537.18 --> 1539.18] No? Do you want to help me do it too? -[1540.18 --> 1541.18] Yeah? All right -[1542.18 --> 1543.18] Let's sing away with the manger -[1549.18 --> 1567.18] Be thosehlian who we sphere -[1568.18 --> 1569.18] food -[1570.18 --> 1573.18] odge of amazing -[1574.18 --> 1575.18] The sullies of of man -[1575.18 --> 1577.18] In a manger -[1577.18 --> 1580.94] No crib for a bed -[1580.94 --> 1584.18] The little Lord Jesus -[1584.70 --> 1588.42] He downed his sweet neck -[1588.42 --> 1592.48] The stars in the bright sky -[1592.48 --> 1595.18] Looked out where he lay -[1596.02 --> 1599.18] The little Lord Jesus -[1599.70 --> 1603.18] Asleep on the hay -[1605.18 --> 1609.26] The cattle are lowing -[1609.26 --> 1612.18] The baby awakes -[1612.94 --> 1616.18] But little Lord Jesus -[1616.70 --> 1620.44] No crying he makes -[1620.44 --> 1624.18] I love you Lord Jesus -[1624.18 --> 1627.18] Look down from on high -[1628.00 --> 1631.18] And stay by my side -[1631.18 --> 1636.18] Till morning is night -[1636.18 --> 1641.42] Be near me Lord Jesus -[1641.42 --> 1644.18] I ask you to stay -[1644.18 --> 1648.18] Close by me forever -[1648.18 --> 1650.18] And love me -[1650.18 --> 1652.18] I pray -[1652.18 --> 1656.18] Bless all the dear children -[1656.18 --> 1659.18] In your tender care -[1659.18 --> 1664.18] Prepare for heaven -[1664.18 --> 1669.18] To live with you there -[1669.18 --> 1673.18] Thank you so much for helping us -[1673.18 --> 1675.18] You can go back to your moms and dads -[1675.18 --> 1705.16] Thank you. -[1705.18 --> 1708.28] Fires, floods, funerals, and fear. -[1709.86 --> 1714.72] Families split in ideology, distance, controversy, and border closures. -[1715.66 --> 1719.14] Elders imprisoned in care homes as well as in their own bodies. -[1720.12 --> 1723.98] The nightly news erupts into our protected, isolated space. -[1724.74 --> 1731.98] Protests, wars, famines, earthquakes, government overspending, deficits, debts, inflation. -[1731.98 --> 1739.54] Conflicting voices on social media echo in our ears amidst the daily COVID count. -[1741.06 --> 1745.24] Neighboring cities had drive-by shootings as we had drive-by birthdays. -[1746.34 --> 1751.32] Yet amidst the mayhem and the masking, the isolation and the weariness, -[1752.26 --> 1756.92] another voice long remembered echoes through the chaos of the years. -[1757.80 --> 1759.72] The voice of one who knows. -[1761.06 --> 1764.18] One who was born into a world of chaos and weariness. -[1765.16 --> 1767.94] His voice still speaks with comforting clarity. -[1769.02 --> 1772.12] And so, we celebrate his coming once again. -[1772.88 --> 1776.48] His coming into a broken world and into broken hearts. -[1776.48 --> 1783.12] He stills our anxiousness with words that carry on into eternity. -[1784.50 --> 1785.86] Peace I leave with you. -[1786.14 --> 1787.74] My peace I give to you. -[1788.34 --> 1790.52] I do not give to you as the world gives. -[1791.40 --> 1793.52] Do not let your hearts be troubled. -[1794.02 --> 1795.54] And do not be afraid. -[1795.54 --> 1795.70] Thank you. -[1795.70 --> 1797.70] Thank you. -[1806.48 --> 1836.46] Thank you. -[1836.46 --> 1866.44] Thank you. -[1866.46 --> 1896.44] Thank you. -[1896.46 --> 1898.46] Thank you. -[1898.46 --> 1926.44] Thank you. -[1926.44 --> 1928.44] Thank you. -[1928.44 --> 1930.44] Thank you. -[1930.44 --> 1932.44] Thank you. -[1932.44 --> 1934.44] Thank you. -[1934.44 --> 1936.44] Thank you. -[1936.44 --> 1938.44] Thank you. -[1938.44 --> 1940.44] Thank you. -[1940.44 --> 1942.44] Thank you. -[1942.44 --> 1944.44] Thank you. -[1944.44 --> 1945.44] Thank you. -[1945.44 --> 1947.44] Thank you. -[1947.44 --> 1949.44] Thank you. -[1949.44 --> 1951.44] Thank you. -[1951.44 --> 1953.44] Thank you. -[1953.44 --> 1954.44] Thank you. -[1954.44 --> 1956.44] Thank you. -[1956.44 --> 1958.44] Thank you. -[1958.44 --> 1960.44] Thank you. -[1960.44 --> 1962.44] Thank you. -[1962.44 --> 1963.44] Thank you. -[1963.44 --> 1965.44] Thank you. -[1965.44 --> 1972.10] basic nursing, a mobile library, prayer and loving community contact. The continuum of care includes -[1972.10 --> 1978.06] ongoing registered Christian counseling with sliding scale fees, men's and women's support -[1978.06 --> 1983.50] groups, Bible studies, extreme weather response, a clothing ministry and much more. More recently, -[1983.50 --> 1988.12] Night Shift has extended their service to outreach in the Langley area. Our church has committed, -[1988.12 --> 1993.04] our church, referring to us, has committed to serving the people of Langley every second month. -[1993.04 --> 1998.74] We currently serve 50 to 60 people a hot meal along with snacks and friendly conversation. -[1998.74 --> 2003.48] If you would like more information on how to get involved, please contact me. We thank you for -[2003.48 --> 2004.38] your donations today. -[2023.04 --> 2037.48] God of all creation, here with us in a starlit manger, Emmanuel. -[2037.48 --> 2051.48] God of all creation, here with us in a starlit manger, Emmanuel. -[2051.48 --> 2054.98] God of all creation, he has nothing to hold. -[2054.98 --> 2080.28] Amen, the lebihrea and blaerіль to -[2080.28 --> 2095.28] Worship Christ the Lord, that all that is within us adore. -[2095.28 --> 2108.28] Wives and bring their treasures, shepherds bow along. -[2108.28 --> 2116.28] Angels' voices sing of peace on earth, -[2116.28 --> 2126.28] And have I to offer to heaven's King? -[2126.28 --> 2135.28] I will bring my life, my love, my heart. -[2135.28 --> 2147.28] Adore, come let us adore, come let us adore. -[2147.28 --> 2158.28] Hail the Lord, worship Christ the Lord, -[2158.28 --> 2170.28] That all that is within us adore. -[2170.28 --> 2181.28] Angels sing praises, ring to the newborn King. -[2181.28 --> 2186.28] Peace on earth, here with us, joy awakening. -[2186.28 --> 2191.28] At your feet we fall. -[2191.28 --> 2196.28] Angels sing praises, ring to the newborn King. -[2196.28 --> 2201.28] Peace on earth, here with us, joy awakening. -[2201.28 --> 2205.28] At your feet we fall. -[2205.28 --> 2212.28] Adore, come let us adore. -[2212.28 --> 2219.28] O come let us adore Him. -[2219.28 --> 2227.28] The Lord, worship Christ the Lord, -[2227.28 --> 2240.28] Let all that is within us adore. -[2240.28 --> 2245.28] O come let us adore. -[2245.28 --> 2246.28] Morning. -[2246.28 --> 2266.28] We're gonna spend some time hearing again, or maybe for the first time, the Christmas story. -[2266.28 --> 2271.18] We're going to read that in our Bibles from Matthew chapter 1. -[2271.78 --> 2280.88] I'm going to read verse 18 through 24, Matthew's quick Christmas story there. -[2280.96 --> 2282.24] It's going to be on the screen behind me. -[2282.32 --> 2283.22] You can probably see it already. -[2283.70 --> 2289.36] I encourage you, if you have a Bible, to have that in your hands, open, on your device or whatever, -[2289.66 --> 2296.10] and you can read along there and then keep it with you as we come into the text. -[2296.28 --> 2302.10] With the text open in front of you, let's pray together. -[2305.08 --> 2312.42] Holy God, Heavenly Father, speak now your Christmas words to us. -[2313.70 --> 2325.58] Speak now the hope, the love, the joy, and the peace that you might bring into the chaos of our lives. -[2327.10 --> 2331.88] Speak now with your voice that we might hear you in this word. -[2332.60 --> 2335.98] That we might go from here today praising your name, -[2336.76 --> 2341.40] joining our voice with the angels, with all of creation, with the shepherds of old, -[2341.90 --> 2345.16] singing your worth and majesty. -[2345.16 --> 2349.94] Take your word and plant it deep in our hearts. -[2350.06 --> 2351.46] In Jesus' name we pray. -[2352.36 --> 2352.68] Amen. -[2352.68 --> 2352.76] Amen. -[2360.50 --> 2365.60] This is how the birth of Jesus, the Messiah, came about. -[2365.60 --> 2370.10] His mother, Mary, was pledged to Joseph. -[2371.14 --> 2377.10] But before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. -[2377.10 --> 2385.80] Because Joseph, her husband, was faithful to the law and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, -[2386.20 --> 2389.50] he had in mind to divorce her quietly. -[2389.50 --> 2396.38] But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, -[2396.52 --> 2402.48] Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, -[2402.48 --> 2407.32] because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. -[2408.02 --> 2412.34] She will give birth to a son and you are to give him the name Jesus -[2412.34 --> 2416.64] because he will save his people from all their sins. -[2416.64 --> 2422.56] All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet. -[2423.48 --> 2428.32] The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son and they will call him Emmanuel, -[2428.96 --> 2431.12] which means God with us. -[2432.74 --> 2436.70] When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him -[2436.70 --> 2439.06] and he took Mary home as his wife. -[2439.60 --> 2443.80] But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son -[2443.80 --> 2446.72] and he gave him the name Jesus. -[2447.42 --> 2448.74] This is the word of the Lord. -[2454.48 --> 2459.92] This year for Advent and Christmas, if you're visiting with us this morning -[2459.92 --> 2461.68] or checking us out for the first time, -[2462.10 --> 2468.52] we have been working towards this idea that we've called un-hallmark Christmas. -[2468.52 --> 2475.88] And by that, we've meant that we have been trying to sort of remove the layers of whitewashing -[2475.88 --> 2481.46] or misinformation or cultural fluff that have been added to the story -[2481.46 --> 2485.06] for so many generations, for so long, -[2485.14 --> 2489.34] that it has become hard to separate fact from fiction. -[2489.34 --> 2493.90] And I'll be honest with you, -[2494.66 --> 2497.92] doing this this past Christmas season, -[2498.04 --> 2500.38] these past four weeks or so, -[2500.82 --> 2501.36] has -[2501.36 --> 2506.24] has helped me love Christmas again. -[2510.26 --> 2510.78] Ordinarily, -[2511.14 --> 2514.38] I get really frustrated around this time of year -[2514.38 --> 2518.60] because of the way that the culture has sort of hijacked Christmas -[2518.60 --> 2524.12] and turned it into sleigh bells and Santa Clauses on every porch and corner. -[2524.96 --> 2525.92] And I confess, -[2526.18 --> 2528.98] it grates on me a little every year -[2528.98 --> 2531.12] when the radio stations that I listen to, -[2531.18 --> 2532.40] and there's really only two of them, -[2533.02 --> 2535.96] start playing Christmas music in mid-November. -[2535.96 --> 2540.36] But this year has been different, -[2540.62 --> 2542.12] and that's in large part because -[2542.12 --> 2545.04] of you and the work we've been doing here -[2545.04 --> 2547.36] and the conversations that have been developed. -[2547.68 --> 2551.38] And we've leaned into the rhythms of Advent -[2551.38 --> 2554.20] and the liturgy of waiting in the darkness -[2554.20 --> 2557.20] and waiting for that light to slowly, -[2557.70 --> 2560.26] slowly shine through a crack. -[2560.26 --> 2563.12] And I've really enjoyed with you -[2563.12 --> 2564.60] and with Pastor Kevin -[2564.60 --> 2567.80] pulling back the sort of Western cultural veil -[2567.80 --> 2570.78] and the hallmarking of Christmas that has happened. -[2572.36 --> 2575.24] I like the idea and the practice -[2575.24 --> 2579.50] of deconstructing cultural and religious ideologies -[2579.50 --> 2580.84] and idolatries. -[2582.34 --> 2583.76] And if you know me, -[2584.10 --> 2586.40] you know that I believe the church -[2586.40 --> 2588.08] is precisely the place -[2588.08 --> 2590.46] where these sorts of conversations should be happening. -[2591.94 --> 2595.32] And precisely because Christmas did happen, -[2595.44 --> 2597.80] that Jesus did come in history, -[2597.96 --> 2601.72] precisely because this is the greatest story ever told -[2601.72 --> 2604.70] and its greatness is largely owing to the fact -[2604.70 --> 2605.80] that it's real, -[2606.10 --> 2610.78] we constantly need to re-narrate our lives -[2610.78 --> 2612.14] in the truth of the gospel -[2612.14 --> 2615.94] and the truth of Jesus' come and his coming again. -[2615.94 --> 2619.28] And here's the thing about that -[2619.28 --> 2622.40] where I'd like to spend a little time with you this morning. -[2623.72 --> 2625.54] Because you see, this time of year -[2625.54 --> 2630.08] and our places in the world, -[2631.32 --> 2633.44] our responsibilities, -[2634.28 --> 2637.22] our idea of meaning, right? -[2637.82 --> 2642.34] Meaning comes from these stories. -[2642.34 --> 2644.44] That meaning is found, -[2644.66 --> 2645.68] it is identified, -[2645.94 --> 2646.62] it is made, -[2646.74 --> 2647.84] however you want to put it. -[2648.14 --> 2651.10] Meaning comes out of the story -[2651.10 --> 2653.90] that you are rooting yourself in. -[2656.60 --> 2659.26] I listened to a podcast recently -[2659.26 --> 2662.20] called The Four Horsemen of Meaning. -[2662.58 --> 2663.50] We can talk about it later. -[2663.56 --> 2664.52] I don't need to get into the details. -[2664.66 --> 2665.62] It's two and a half hours long. -[2666.20 --> 2667.00] But in there, -[2667.08 --> 2668.90] there was a whole conversation about meaning -[2668.90 --> 2670.14] and the source of meaning. -[2670.26 --> 2672.32] And the people in this conversation -[2672.32 --> 2674.16] was a cognitive scientist -[2674.16 --> 2676.08] and a psychoanalyst, -[2676.44 --> 2678.02] an art theologian, -[2678.12 --> 2679.28] and a Catholic bishop. -[2680.14 --> 2682.44] And the whole conversation was about meaning -[2682.44 --> 2684.46] and where meaning is found -[2684.46 --> 2685.50] or how we find it -[2685.50 --> 2686.92] and how we come by it. -[2687.08 --> 2687.88] And at one point, -[2687.94 --> 2689.94] one of the people in this conversation -[2689.94 --> 2692.60] said that meaning comes -[2692.60 --> 2695.90] from living in purposive relationship -[2695.90 --> 2697.02] to the true, -[2697.34 --> 2697.76] the good, -[2697.84 --> 2698.60] and the beautiful. -[2700.32 --> 2701.58] And as Christians, -[2701.92 --> 2702.10] right, -[2702.14 --> 2703.60] we know that the ultimate true, -[2703.72 --> 2704.32] the ultimate good, -[2704.40 --> 2705.20] the ultimate beautiful -[2705.20 --> 2706.98] is God. -[2708.80 --> 2709.26] Now, -[2709.46 --> 2712.58] I would add to that conversation -[2712.58 --> 2715.76] that the way that we have -[2715.76 --> 2717.78] a purposive relationship -[2717.78 --> 2718.78] to the true, -[2718.92 --> 2719.28] the good, -[2719.34 --> 2720.00] and the beautiful -[2720.00 --> 2723.50] is as God reveals himself -[2723.50 --> 2725.76] to us in his word. -[2727.26 --> 2727.44] Now, -[2727.58 --> 2730.34] let me be really clear with you, -[2730.38 --> 2730.54] right, -[2730.62 --> 2732.14] because all people, -[2732.66 --> 2734.16] whether or not they are Christian -[2734.16 --> 2736.90] or whether or not they call it as such, -[2737.20 --> 2739.32] all people have a relationship -[2739.32 --> 2740.26] to the true, -[2740.38 --> 2740.66] the good, -[2740.70 --> 2741.30] and the beautiful -[2741.30 --> 2743.66] or an idea of what the ultimate true, -[2743.80 --> 2743.98] good, -[2744.06 --> 2745.48] and beautiful is. -[2746.36 --> 2747.90] And as Reformed Christians, -[2748.10 --> 2750.84] as our branch of Christianity -[2750.84 --> 2752.96] and the Protestant stream, -[2753.50 --> 2754.56] as Reformed Christians, -[2755.00 --> 2757.20] we call that general sense -[2757.20 --> 2758.12] of relationship -[2758.12 --> 2759.02] to the true, -[2759.14 --> 2759.30] good, -[2759.36 --> 2759.74] and the beautiful, -[2759.80 --> 2761.56] we call that general revelation. -[2762.52 --> 2762.62] Right, -[2762.70 --> 2763.74] God reveals himself -[2763.74 --> 2764.56] to the world -[2764.56 --> 2765.50] in the order -[2765.50 --> 2766.62] and the majesty -[2766.62 --> 2767.94] and the magnitude -[2767.94 --> 2769.30] of creation. -[2769.66 --> 2770.48] God reveals himself -[2770.48 --> 2771.08] to the world -[2771.08 --> 2772.02] in its beauty. -[2774.08 --> 2774.64] But, -[2774.98 --> 2776.46] the way that you have -[2776.46 --> 2777.74] a purposive, -[2778.10 --> 2778.26] right, -[2778.44 --> 2780.20] a meaningful relationship -[2780.20 --> 2780.90] to God, -[2781.00 --> 2781.44] and thus, -[2781.54 --> 2782.88] the way that we understand -[2782.88 --> 2783.86] ultimate meaning -[2783.86 --> 2785.36] is only by -[2785.36 --> 2787.40] his special revelation, -[2787.56 --> 2788.26] is only by -[2788.26 --> 2790.34] his word, -[2790.80 --> 2792.24] by his story. -[2793.16 --> 2793.38] Now, -[2793.86 --> 2794.98] I get that right now -[2794.98 --> 2795.66] I'm at the risk -[2795.66 --> 2796.74] of losing some of you -[2796.74 --> 2798.42] because I'm talking -[2798.42 --> 2799.66] philosophy and theology, -[2799.82 --> 2800.80] and so let me just wrap that up -[2800.80 --> 2801.58] with this point. -[2803.34 --> 2803.82] Meaning, -[2805.26 --> 2805.90] individual -[2805.90 --> 2807.68] and personal, -[2808.60 --> 2809.20] meaning, -[2809.46 --> 2809.98] societal -[2809.98 --> 2811.06] and collective, -[2811.72 --> 2812.98] to not put too fine -[2812.98 --> 2813.76] a point on it, -[2813.94 --> 2814.04] right, -[2814.08 --> 2815.06] the very why -[2815.06 --> 2815.80] of life -[2815.80 --> 2816.76] and purpose -[2816.76 --> 2818.56] comes out of -[2818.56 --> 2819.32] living in -[2819.32 --> 2820.04] purposive -[2820.04 --> 2820.92] relationship -[2820.92 --> 2821.90] to God -[2821.90 --> 2822.78] as the one -[2822.78 --> 2823.84] true God -[2823.84 --> 2824.52] and the God -[2824.52 --> 2825.44] of truth, -[2825.50 --> 2826.38] as the only -[2826.38 --> 2827.46] ultimate good -[2827.46 --> 2828.42] and the overflowing -[2828.42 --> 2829.84] source of all good, -[2829.94 --> 2830.66] as the most -[2830.66 --> 2831.24] magnificent -[2831.24 --> 2832.26] and beautiful -[2832.26 --> 2832.74] being -[2832.74 --> 2833.66] as his glory -[2833.66 --> 2835.16] pours forth. -[2836.58 --> 2837.52] Any sense -[2837.52 --> 2838.14] of meaning -[2838.14 --> 2839.84] that you make, -[2839.88 --> 2840.76] or for any sense -[2840.76 --> 2841.10] of meaning -[2841.10 --> 2841.58] that you make -[2841.58 --> 2842.76] to have legs, -[2842.98 --> 2843.94] it needs to -[2843.94 --> 2845.90] walk in the story -[2845.90 --> 2847.64] of God's revelation -[2847.64 --> 2848.88] to the world. -[2850.16 --> 2850.98] I can't -[2850.98 --> 2851.90] understate this -[2851.90 --> 2852.90] point -[2852.90 --> 2853.86] at all -[2853.86 --> 2854.78] here now -[2854.78 --> 2855.50] at Christmas. -[2856.66 --> 2858.08] Who you are -[2858.08 --> 2859.42] is filled -[2859.42 --> 2860.52] up with meaning -[2860.52 --> 2861.88] and with purpose -[2861.88 --> 2862.98] as you are -[2862.98 --> 2863.64] found -[2863.64 --> 2865.04] in the story -[2865.04 --> 2866.10] of God. -[2867.74 --> 2868.12] And so, -[2868.24 --> 2868.76] by all means, -[2869.12 --> 2869.86] deconstruct -[2869.86 --> 2870.52] your faith, -[2871.70 --> 2872.16] but do it -[2872.16 --> 2872.98] in the context -[2872.98 --> 2874.00] of the community -[2874.00 --> 2874.58] of faith, -[2875.38 --> 2875.52] right, -[2875.56 --> 2876.68] make it your own, -[2877.60 --> 2878.80] ask hard questions, -[2879.32 --> 2879.98] expose -[2879.98 --> 2881.56] the competing -[2881.56 --> 2882.32] stories -[2882.32 --> 2883.56] of the culture -[2883.56 --> 2884.32] to the truth -[2884.32 --> 2884.92] of the gospel, -[2885.20 --> 2885.38] right, -[2885.54 --> 2886.30] unhallmark -[2886.30 --> 2887.24] your Christmases -[2887.24 --> 2887.94] because the very -[2887.94 --> 2889.24] meaning of your life -[2889.24 --> 2891.06] comes out of the story -[2891.06 --> 2891.88] that you are -[2891.88 --> 2892.94] rooting yourself in. -[2895.44 --> 2896.96] And it's been my prayer -[2896.96 --> 2897.70] throughout this -[2897.70 --> 2899.06] Christmas season -[2899.06 --> 2900.34] that we, -[2900.56 --> 2900.92] together, -[2901.08 --> 2901.98] would be rooted -[2901.98 --> 2903.60] in the true -[2903.60 --> 2905.00] story of -[2905.00 --> 2905.84] Jesus. -[2906.40 --> 2907.06] The real -[2907.06 --> 2907.82] Jesus. -[2908.08 --> 2909.16] The Jesus of -[2909.16 --> 2909.70] the Bible -[2909.70 --> 2910.54] and of history -[2910.54 --> 2911.16] because you see -[2911.16 --> 2912.34] the historical -[2912.34 --> 2913.46] Jesus is -[2913.46 --> 2914.64] the biblical -[2914.64 --> 2915.80] Jesus. -[2917.24 --> 2918.88] try as we -[2918.88 --> 2919.24] might -[2919.24 --> 2919.56] to -[2919.56 --> 2920.98] disenchant -[2920.98 --> 2921.52] our sense -[2921.52 --> 2922.06] of self -[2922.06 --> 2922.68] in the modern -[2922.68 --> 2923.04] world. -[2923.20 --> 2924.32] Try as the -[2924.32 --> 2925.46] pagan impulse -[2925.46 --> 2925.90] might -[2925.90 --> 2926.96] to limit -[2926.96 --> 2928.00] what is -[2928.00 --> 2928.76] here -[2928.76 --> 2929.44] to the -[2929.44 --> 2929.86] imminent -[2929.86 --> 2930.46] frame. -[2930.82 --> 2931.70] Try as we -[2931.70 --> 2931.94] might -[2931.94 --> 2932.56] to block -[2932.56 --> 2933.12] out the -[2933.12 --> 2933.88] transcendent -[2933.88 --> 2934.48] from breaking -[2934.48 --> 2934.92] in -[2934.92 --> 2936.66] and haunting -[2936.66 --> 2937.86] our reality -[2937.86 --> 2938.62] with a longing -[2938.62 --> 2939.12] for something -[2939.12 --> 2939.38] more. -[2939.84 --> 2941.18] Christmas time -[2941.18 --> 2942.40] reminds us -[2942.40 --> 2943.16] of that -[2943.16 --> 2943.56] something -[2943.56 --> 2944.06] more. -[2944.06 --> 2945.40] There's a -[2945.40 --> 2946.04] reason that -[2946.04 --> 2946.94] even the -[2946.94 --> 2947.72] strictest -[2947.72 --> 2948.58] secularist -[2948.58 --> 2949.38] feels something -[2949.38 --> 2950.76] magical about -[2950.76 --> 2951.54] Christmas. -[2952.62 --> 2953.04] There's a -[2953.04 --> 2953.56] reason why -[2953.56 --> 2954.32] even the -[2954.32 --> 2954.62] biggest -[2954.62 --> 2955.04] Grinch -[2955.04 --> 2955.48] can have -[2955.48 --> 2956.00] his heart -[2956.00 --> 2956.84] grown three -[2956.84 --> 2957.32] sizes -[2957.32 --> 2958.18] this time -[2958.18 --> 2958.48] of year. -[2959.88 --> 2960.20] No matter -[2960.20 --> 2961.20] how vehemently -[2961.20 --> 2961.88] the captives -[2961.88 --> 2962.52] and captains -[2962.52 --> 2963.14] of imminence -[2963.14 --> 2963.62] might say -[2963.62 --> 2964.20] otherwise, -[2964.46 --> 2965.14] the story -[2965.14 --> 2965.78] of God -[2965.78 --> 2966.58] in you -[2966.58 --> 2967.60] longs for -[2967.60 --> 2968.04] more, -[2968.36 --> 2968.98] especially -[2968.98 --> 2969.98] at times -[2969.98 --> 2970.52] like this. -[2970.52 --> 2972.40] In this -[2972.40 --> 2973.76] increasingly -[2973.76 --> 2974.62] disenchanted -[2974.62 --> 2975.08] world, -[2975.48 --> 2975.82] what we -[2975.82 --> 2976.56] need is -[2976.56 --> 2977.54] what C.S. -[2977.62 --> 2978.88] Lewis might -[2978.88 --> 2979.46] have called -[2979.46 --> 2980.34] an experience -[2980.34 --> 2980.72] of the -[2980.72 --> 2981.10] deeper -[2981.10 --> 2981.94] magic. -[2983.02 --> 2984.10] We need -[2984.10 --> 2984.74] a taste -[2984.74 --> 2985.98] of eternity -[2985.98 --> 2987.56] because, -[2987.88 --> 2988.14] as the -[2988.14 --> 2988.58] teacher -[2988.58 --> 2989.60] writing in -[2989.60 --> 2990.28] Ecclesiastes -[2990.28 --> 2990.82] says, -[2991.20 --> 2991.94] God has -[2991.94 --> 2992.88] set eternity -[2992.88 --> 2993.86] in every -[2993.86 --> 2994.70] human -[2994.70 --> 2995.50] heart. -[2996.26 --> 2996.86] And that, -[2997.30 --> 2997.88] my friends, -[2998.10 --> 2998.58] is what -[2998.58 --> 2999.28] Christmas -[2999.28 --> 3000.44] gives us -[3000.44 --> 3001.16] a glimpse -[3001.16 --> 3002.20] into. -[3003.56 --> 3004.20] Eternity -[3004.20 --> 3004.90] entered -[3004.90 --> 3005.50] into -[3005.50 --> 3006.46] time. -[3010.72 --> 3011.58] This is -[3011.58 --> 3012.00] how the -[3012.00 --> 3012.42] birth of -[3012.42 --> 3012.72] Jesus, -[3012.98 --> 3013.46] the Messiah, -[3013.74 --> 3014.24] came about. -[3015.22 --> 3015.66] Mary was -[3015.66 --> 3016.18] found to -[3016.18 --> 3016.66] be pregnant -[3016.66 --> 3017.54] through the -[3017.54 --> 3018.32] Holy Spirit. -[3019.58 --> 3020.36] The angel -[3020.36 --> 3020.78] of the Lord -[3020.78 --> 3021.58] appeared to -[3021.58 --> 3022.36] Joseph and -[3022.36 --> 3022.66] said, -[3022.80 --> 3023.14] what is -[3023.14 --> 3023.72] conceived -[3023.72 --> 3024.36] in her -[3024.36 --> 3025.20] is from -[3025.20 --> 3025.86] the Holy -[3025.86 --> 3026.86] Spirit. -[3027.28 --> 3027.82] All this -[3027.82 --> 3028.56] took place -[3028.56 --> 3029.18] to fulfill -[3029.18 --> 3029.54] what the -[3029.54 --> 3029.96] Lord had -[3029.96 --> 3030.48] said through -[3030.48 --> 3030.98] the prophet. -[3031.34 --> 3031.76] The virgin -[3031.76 --> 3032.44] will conceive -[3032.44 --> 3032.98] and give -[3032.98 --> 3033.42] birth to -[3033.42 --> 3033.86] a son, -[3034.28 --> 3034.62] and they -[3034.62 --> 3035.20] will call -[3035.20 --> 3035.62] him -[3035.62 --> 3037.18] Emmanuel, -[3038.26 --> 3039.14] which means -[3039.14 --> 3040.20] God -[3040.20 --> 3041.62] with us. -[3042.32 --> 3042.64] The -[3042.64 --> 3043.78] transcendent -[3043.78 --> 3044.74] has become -[3044.74 --> 3045.44] imminent. -[3045.70 --> 3045.98] God -[3045.98 --> 3046.98] with us. -[3047.08 --> 3047.60] Emmanuel, -[3047.84 --> 3048.34] the infinite -[3048.34 --> 3049.20] has become -[3049.20 --> 3049.92] finite. -[3050.26 --> 3050.64] God -[3050.64 --> 3051.16] became -[3051.16 --> 3051.82] man. -[3051.96 --> 3052.24] Let that -[3052.24 --> 3053.00] echo in your -[3053.00 --> 3053.98] hearts for a -[3053.98 --> 3054.18] moment. -[3054.34 --> 3054.64] God -[3054.64 --> 3055.08] became -[3055.08 --> 3055.66] man. -[3055.76 --> 3055.98] Let that -[3055.98 --> 3056.86] reverberate in -[3056.86 --> 3058.02] your imaginations -[3058.02 --> 3058.68] because the -[3058.68 --> 3059.70] true story of -[3059.70 --> 3061.04] Christmas is -[3061.04 --> 3062.22] the incarnation, -[3062.64 --> 3062.90] right, where -[3062.90 --> 3063.88] God took on -[3063.88 --> 3064.60] flesh to -[3064.60 --> 3065.82] ransom us. -[3065.92 --> 3066.62] The true story -[3066.62 --> 3067.18] of Christmas -[3067.18 --> 3067.88] is the -[3067.88 --> 3068.94] incarnation where -[3068.94 --> 3069.84] she will give -[3069.84 --> 3070.54] birth to a -[3070.54 --> 3071.34] son and you -[3071.34 --> 3071.88] are to give -[3071.88 --> 3072.38] him the name -[3072.38 --> 3073.34] Jesus because -[3073.34 --> 3074.54] he will save -[3074.54 --> 3075.22] his people -[3075.22 --> 3076.22] from their -[3076.22 --> 3076.62] sins. -[3077.08 --> 3077.50] Christmas -[3077.50 --> 3079.08] happens so -[3079.08 --> 3079.74] that God -[3079.74 --> 3080.54] can conquer -[3080.54 --> 3081.52] sin on the -[3081.52 --> 3082.20] cross by -[3082.20 --> 3083.00] giving us -[3083.00 --> 3083.82] an empty -[3083.82 --> 3084.30] tomb, -[3084.30 --> 3085.22] and anything -[3085.22 --> 3086.02] less just -[3086.02 --> 3086.40] isn't -[3086.40 --> 3086.90] Christmas. -[3087.40 --> 3087.66] Anything -[3087.66 --> 3088.54] less isn't -[3088.54 --> 3089.36] enough to -[3089.36 --> 3089.94] give you -[3089.94 --> 3091.64] meaning in -[3091.64 --> 3092.40] this life. -[3093.88 --> 3094.48] Meaning -[3094.48 --> 3095.40] comes out of -[3095.40 --> 3096.54] the story you -[3096.54 --> 3097.28] are rooting -[3097.28 --> 3098.22] yourself in -[3098.22 --> 3098.92] and for that -[3098.92 --> 3099.58] meaning to -[3099.58 --> 3100.34] last, for that -[3100.34 --> 3100.92] meaning to be -[3100.92 --> 3101.68] ultimate, really, -[3101.94 --> 3102.42] for that meaning -[3102.42 --> 3103.04] to be worth -[3103.04 --> 3104.04] anything at -[3104.04 --> 3105.32] all, the -[3105.32 --> 3106.20] story that -[3106.20 --> 3106.86] it's based -[3106.86 --> 3107.88] on needs to -[3107.88 --> 3109.02] be rooted -[3109.02 --> 3110.56] in history -[3110.56 --> 3111.64] and this -[3111.64 --> 3113.98] story, for -[3113.98 --> 3114.38] all of its -[3114.38 --> 3115.92] paradoxes and -[3115.92 --> 3117.16] mysteries, has -[3117.16 --> 3117.98] all the -[3117.98 --> 3119.36] hallmarks of -[3119.36 --> 3120.98] being true, -[3121.60 --> 3123.04] of actually -[3123.04 --> 3124.16] having -[3124.16 --> 3125.22] happened. -[3127.14 --> 3127.98] Matthew and -[3127.98 --> 3129.30] Luke tie -[3129.30 --> 3130.04] us to -[3130.04 --> 3131.38] history in -[3131.38 --> 3131.94] their gospel -[3131.94 --> 3132.62] accounts of -[3132.62 --> 3133.38] Jesus' birth by -[3133.38 --> 3133.78] giving us -[3133.78 --> 3134.72] genealogies, -[3135.08 --> 3135.88] which if you -[3135.88 --> 3136.40] were making -[3136.40 --> 3137.04] up these -[3137.04 --> 3137.98] stories, there -[3137.98 --> 3138.56] are certainly -[3138.56 --> 3139.32] unseemly -[3139.32 --> 3140.46] characters that -[3140.46 --> 3140.76] you would -[3140.76 --> 3142.12] omit, unless -[3142.12 --> 3143.38] the truth -[3143.38 --> 3144.14] of it matters -[3144.14 --> 3144.70] to you. -[3145.50 --> 3146.22] Because if the -[3146.22 --> 3146.62] truth of it -[3146.62 --> 3147.06] matters to -[3147.06 --> 3147.44] you, then -[3147.44 --> 3148.32] their inclusion -[3148.32 --> 3149.32] becomes an -[3149.32 --> 3149.92] argument for -[3149.92 --> 3150.48] the story's -[3150.48 --> 3150.80] truth. -[3152.10 --> 3152.68] The same can -[3152.68 --> 3153.32] be said about -[3153.32 --> 3154.14] the first -[3154.14 --> 3155.46] witnesses being -[3155.46 --> 3156.38] shepherds at -[3156.38 --> 3156.96] the birth of -[3156.96 --> 3157.50] Jesus and -[3157.50 --> 3158.16] women at the -[3158.16 --> 3158.58] resurrection. -[3158.88 --> 3159.42] If you were -[3159.42 --> 3160.02] making this -[3160.02 --> 3160.98] up, you -[3160.98 --> 3161.50] wouldn't have -[3161.50 --> 3162.12] used people -[3162.12 --> 3162.82] whose testimony -[3162.82 --> 3163.64] was legally -[3163.64 --> 3164.72] inadmissible and -[3164.72 --> 3165.40] so easily -[3165.40 --> 3165.98] dismissed. -[3165.98 --> 3167.90] Or likewise -[3167.90 --> 3168.58] with the -[3168.58 --> 3169.24] so-called -[3169.24 --> 3169.96] wise men, -[3170.08 --> 3170.72] the pagan -[3170.72 --> 3171.56] wizards, -[3171.66 --> 3171.78] right? -[3171.82 --> 3172.24] If you were -[3172.24 --> 3172.78] trying to -[3172.78 --> 3173.54] fabricate a -[3173.54 --> 3174.28] story of a -[3174.28 --> 3175.48] Jewish Messiah, -[3175.66 --> 3176.08] you wouldn't -[3176.08 --> 3177.04] have pagans -[3177.04 --> 3177.76] come from -[3177.76 --> 3178.42] Arabia to -[3178.42 --> 3178.90] praise him -[3178.90 --> 3179.28] while the -[3179.28 --> 3180.10] Jewish king -[3180.10 --> 3180.60] tries to -[3180.60 --> 3181.34] kill him, -[3182.36 --> 3183.06] taking on the -[3183.06 --> 3183.46] role of -[3183.46 --> 3184.04] Pharaoh in -[3184.04 --> 3184.62] that story. -[3185.04 --> 3185.92] Unless, in -[3185.92 --> 3186.50] all three of -[3186.50 --> 3187.14] these cases, -[3187.48 --> 3187.88] the truth -[3187.88 --> 3188.72] matters to -[3188.72 --> 3189.46] you, and -[3189.46 --> 3190.46] then those -[3190.46 --> 3191.40] things being -[3191.40 --> 3192.18] recorded as -[3192.18 --> 3192.62] such become -[3192.62 --> 3193.40] an argument for -[3193.40 --> 3194.12] the truth of -[3194.12 --> 3194.78] the story. -[3195.98 --> 3196.48] Right? -[3196.56 --> 3197.22] All throughout -[3197.22 --> 3197.96] this Advent -[3197.96 --> 3198.84] and Christmas -[3198.84 --> 3199.58] season, we -[3199.58 --> 3200.06] have been -[3200.06 --> 3200.82] going back -[3200.82 --> 3201.14] to the -[3201.14 --> 3201.44] true, -[3201.76 --> 3202.34] historical, -[3202.84 --> 3203.62] deep magic -[3203.62 --> 3204.70] story of -[3204.70 --> 3205.34] God at -[3205.34 --> 3206.20] work in -[3206.20 --> 3206.66] the world. -[3207.76 --> 3208.44] And yes, -[3209.30 --> 3209.92] some of our -[3209.92 --> 3211.40] expectations and -[3211.40 --> 3212.18] our hallmarked -[3212.18 --> 3212.72] versions of -[3212.72 --> 3213.32] the story have -[3213.32 --> 3213.92] been challenged, -[3214.04 --> 3214.38] they've been -[3214.38 --> 3215.30] deconstructed, -[3215.34 --> 3215.94] but the goal, -[3216.10 --> 3216.84] the hope, -[3217.02 --> 3218.02] has always been -[3218.02 --> 3219.04] to bring you -[3219.04 --> 3220.48] closer to -[3220.48 --> 3221.04] the true -[3221.04 --> 3222.00] Jesus, to -[3222.00 --> 3222.94] the real -[3222.94 --> 3223.98] Jesus. -[3223.98 --> 3225.76] Jesus, the -[3225.76 --> 3226.22] historical -[3226.22 --> 3227.78] Jesus, revealed -[3227.78 --> 3229.06] in the -[3229.06 --> 3229.32] Word of -[3229.32 --> 3229.62] God. -[3230.74 --> 3231.40] Because the -[3231.40 --> 3232.94] truth is, and -[3232.94 --> 3233.60] you know this, -[3233.82 --> 3234.78] right, 2,000 -[3234.78 --> 3236.04] years later, over -[3236.04 --> 3237.18] 10,000 kilometers -[3237.18 --> 3237.90] away, in a -[3237.90 --> 3238.50] whole different -[3238.50 --> 3239.66] culture, right, -[3239.70 --> 3239.98] in a different -[3239.98 --> 3240.94] time and space -[3240.94 --> 3242.10] and place, it -[3242.10 --> 3243.74] is so, so -[3243.74 --> 3244.84] easy to -[3244.84 --> 3245.80] substitute a -[3245.80 --> 3246.82] Jesus of our -[3246.82 --> 3247.72] own making -[3247.72 --> 3249.02] for the one -[3249.02 --> 3249.46] of the Bible. -[3249.46 --> 3252.42] So a really -[3252.42 --> 3253.24] great illustration -[3253.24 --> 3255.38] of this in -[3255.38 --> 3255.84] the book -[3255.84 --> 3257.04] American Gods -[3257.04 --> 3257.84] by Neil -[3257.84 --> 3258.16] Gaiman. -[3258.78 --> 3259.80] It's a fictional -[3259.80 --> 3260.78] story of a -[3260.78 --> 3261.48] whole pantheon -[3261.48 --> 3262.12] of gods who -[3262.12 --> 3263.04] are in the -[3263.04 --> 3263.76] midst fighting -[3263.76 --> 3264.32] amongst -[3264.32 --> 3265.82] themselves and -[3265.82 --> 3266.52] us for -[3266.52 --> 3267.62] attention as -[3267.62 --> 3268.28] the means by -[3268.28 --> 3268.90] which their -[3268.90 --> 3269.66] presence in -[3269.66 --> 3270.22] the world is -[3270.22 --> 3270.66] sustained. -[3271.10 --> 3271.80] This is an -[3271.80 --> 3272.18] illustration. -[3272.98 --> 3273.88] The TV -[3273.88 --> 3275.00] adaptation of -[3275.00 --> 3276.52] this novel -[3276.52 --> 3277.18] actually goes -[3277.18 --> 3277.88] even further to -[3277.88 --> 3278.34] the point that -[3278.34 --> 3278.82] we're about to -[3278.82 --> 3279.00] make. -[3279.46 --> 3280.54] In the TV -[3280.54 --> 3281.12] version of the -[3281.12 --> 3282.20] story, Mr. -[3282.32 --> 3284.24] Wednesday, who -[3284.24 --> 3285.58] is the American -[3285.58 --> 3286.42] version of the -[3286.42 --> 3287.60] Norse god Odin, -[3288.12 --> 3288.92] Wednesday is -[3288.92 --> 3290.76] Odin's day, and -[3290.76 --> 3292.18] Mr. Ibis, who -[3292.18 --> 3293.14] is the American -[3293.14 --> 3293.86] version of the -[3293.86 --> 3294.64] Egyptian god -[3294.64 --> 3295.56] Thoth, who -[3295.56 --> 3296.48] usually appears -[3296.48 --> 3297.16] as an Ibis -[3297.16 --> 3298.96] bird, they -[3298.96 --> 3300.92] both say that -[3300.92 --> 3302.38] you not only -[3302.38 --> 3303.42] have one Jesus -[3303.42 --> 3305.24] in our Western -[3305.24 --> 3305.94] culture, but you -[3305.94 --> 3306.56] have a bunch of -[3306.56 --> 3307.86] different Jesuses. -[3308.34 --> 3308.74] Mr. -[3308.74 --> 3309.94] Wednesday explains -[3309.94 --> 3310.56] to Shadow -[3310.56 --> 3311.22] Moon, who's the -[3311.22 --> 3312.26] protagonist, he -[3312.26 --> 3312.68] says you've got -[3312.68 --> 3313.44] your white Jesus -[3313.44 --> 3314.00] and your -[3314.00 --> 3314.74] Jesuit style -[3314.74 --> 3315.38] Jesus, your -[3315.38 --> 3316.06] black African -[3316.06 --> 3316.80] Jesus and your -[3316.80 --> 3317.68] Mexican Jesus -[3317.68 --> 3318.32] and your -[3318.32 --> 3319.12] swarthy Greek -[3319.12 --> 3319.66] Jesus. -[3321.20 --> 3322.20] And truthfully, -[3322.64 --> 3323.70] if you look -[3323.70 --> 3324.34] around, it goes -[3324.34 --> 3325.22] even further than -[3325.22 --> 3325.56] that. -[3326.42 --> 3327.52] Because in the -[3327.52 --> 3328.60] evangelical culture, -[3328.74 --> 3329.28] more generally, -[3329.54 --> 3330.14] you've got your -[3330.14 --> 3331.28] hyper-masculine -[3331.28 --> 3331.82] Jesus. -[3333.04 --> 3333.50] But then to -[3333.50 --> 3334.26] contrast that out, -[3334.32 --> 3334.76] you've got your -[3334.76 --> 3335.60] feminine Jesus, -[3336.60 --> 3337.24] you've got your -[3337.24 --> 3338.16] hipster Jesus, -[3338.44 --> 3339.54] and you've got -[3339.54 --> 3339.98] your hippie -[3339.98 --> 3340.42] Jesus. -[3341.42 --> 3342.60] It all depends -[3342.60 --> 3343.60] on what you -[3343.60 --> 3344.44] think you need -[3344.44 --> 3344.96] him for. -[3345.60 --> 3346.38] Or it all -[3346.38 --> 3347.16] depends on which -[3347.16 --> 3348.64] version of him -[3348.64 --> 3350.50] you like best -[3350.50 --> 3351.40] or find the -[3351.40 --> 3352.48] most palatable. -[3354.56 --> 3355.48] Another example -[3355.48 --> 3356.02] of this, and I -[3356.02 --> 3356.58] hesitate to tell -[3356.58 --> 3356.90] you that I've -[3356.90 --> 3357.44] seen this movie, -[3357.54 --> 3358.34] but in the movie -[3358.34 --> 3359.30] Talladega Nights, -[3360.48 --> 3361.12] Ricky Bobby -[3361.12 --> 3362.92] prays to baby -[3362.92 --> 3364.50] Jesus because he -[3364.50 --> 3365.14] likes the baby -[3365.14 --> 3365.76] Jesus better -[3365.76 --> 3366.78] because the baby -[3366.78 --> 3367.28] Jesus is going -[3367.28 --> 3367.68] to get him all -[3367.68 --> 3368.04] that money. -[3370.62 --> 3371.82] The reality is -[3371.82 --> 3372.68] some of you -[3372.68 --> 3374.02] prefer a Jesus -[3374.02 --> 3375.30] safely on the -[3375.30 --> 3375.82] pages of the -[3375.82 --> 3376.40] Bible and in -[3376.40 --> 3377.38] history, but not -[3377.38 --> 3378.26] active in the -[3378.26 --> 3378.90] world by the -[3378.90 --> 3379.56] Holy Spirit. -[3380.04 --> 3380.72] Some of us -[3380.72 --> 3381.90] prefer Jesus -[3381.90 --> 3382.58] who is a good -[3382.58 --> 3383.70] teacher, but we -[3383.70 --> 3384.24] don't think we -[3384.24 --> 3384.96] need any more -[3384.96 --> 3386.14] from him or of -[3386.14 --> 3386.76] him than that. -[3387.18 --> 3388.10] Sometimes we like -[3388.10 --> 3388.96] the idea of -[3388.96 --> 3389.86] Jesus as a -[3389.86 --> 3391.28] Savior, but not -[3391.28 --> 3392.28] as the Lord -[3392.28 --> 3394.12] of our lives. -[3396.40 --> 3396.94] I'm going to -[3396.94 --> 3397.88] let you, like -[3397.88 --> 3398.70] Mary, ponder -[3398.70 --> 3399.56] these things in -[3399.56 --> 3401.08] your heart, figure -[3401.08 --> 3401.80] out which one is -[3401.80 --> 3401.98] you. -[3403.46 --> 3404.30] I can tell you -[3404.30 --> 3405.98] for myself, for -[3405.98 --> 3406.80] the longest time, -[3407.16 --> 3408.20] I preferred the -[3408.20 --> 3409.12] Jesus of my -[3409.12 --> 3410.22] doctrines and my -[3410.22 --> 3411.42] theological systems -[3411.42 --> 3413.14] because ideas I -[3413.14 --> 3413.94] can grasp. -[3415.04 --> 3416.18] Ideas and systems -[3416.18 --> 3417.14] I can box up -[3417.14 --> 3418.22] nice and tidy, -[3418.72 --> 3420.06] and by being able -[3420.06 --> 3420.74] to box those -[3420.74 --> 3421.54] things up nice and -[3421.54 --> 3422.36] tidy, I can -[3422.36 --> 3423.26] exercise some -[3423.26 --> 3425.88] control in my -[3425.88 --> 3426.56] relationship to -[3426.56 --> 3426.82] God. -[3427.84 --> 3429.12] The reality of -[3429.12 --> 3430.38] Jesus active in -[3430.38 --> 3431.26] the world and in -[3431.26 --> 3432.54] my heart, demanding -[3432.54 --> 3434.24] my devotion and -[3434.24 --> 3435.22] every square inch -[3435.22 --> 3436.20] of my life was, -[3436.48 --> 3436.84] well, that was -[3436.84 --> 3437.90] harder to accept -[3437.90 --> 3438.88] and to come to -[3438.88 --> 3439.84] love and to -[3439.84 --> 3440.60] realize that I -[3440.60 --> 3440.90] need. -[3442.78 --> 3443.86] But if you are -[3443.86 --> 3444.60] hungry for -[3444.60 --> 3447.24] meaning, if this -[3447.24 --> 3448.36] Christmas you are -[3448.36 --> 3449.42] looking for a -[3449.42 --> 3450.92] purpose that lasts, -[3450.92 --> 3452.90] the truth is, you -[3452.90 --> 3453.74] are looking for -[3453.74 --> 3455.14] the real Jesus. -[3457.22 --> 3459.22] And so we all -[3459.22 --> 3460.22] together need to -[3460.22 --> 3461.32] stop accepting -[3461.32 --> 3462.82] substitutes or -[3462.82 --> 3464.14] fabrications or -[3464.14 --> 3465.88] lesser glories. -[3466.70 --> 3467.94] Come to the one -[3467.94 --> 3468.86] true God who -[3468.86 --> 3470.54] reveals himself in -[3470.54 --> 3471.54] his word because -[3471.54 --> 3472.84] he is the source -[3472.84 --> 3474.40] of your meaning. -[3474.64 --> 3475.46] Relationship to -[3475.46 --> 3476.68] him is the source -[3476.68 --> 3477.84] of your why. -[3481.58 --> 3483.74] Look, it's -[3483.74 --> 3484.14] Jesus. -[3484.68 --> 3485.44] It is this -[3485.44 --> 3487.62] Jesus revealed in -[3487.62 --> 3489.08] the Bible come in -[3489.08 --> 3489.54] history. -[3489.90 --> 3490.88] This Jesus who -[3490.88 --> 3492.78] was born a babe in -[3492.78 --> 3493.80] Bethlehem and -[3493.80 --> 3494.76] placed in a manger. -[3495.16 --> 3495.94] Jesus whom -[3495.94 --> 3497.42] shepherds praised -[3497.42 --> 3498.14] and pagans -[3498.14 --> 3499.02] magnified. -[3499.38 --> 3500.42] Jesus whose birth -[3500.42 --> 3501.50] was simultaneously -[3501.50 --> 3503.08] incredible for its -[3503.08 --> 3504.18] ordinariness but -[3504.18 --> 3505.22] anything but -[3505.22 --> 3506.10] ordinary. -[3506.50 --> 3507.14] Jesus who -[3507.14 --> 3508.22] lived the life I -[3508.22 --> 3509.20] should have lived -[3509.20 --> 3509.94] and Jesus who -[3509.94 --> 3510.84] died the death -[3510.84 --> 3511.70] that I deserved -[3511.70 --> 3512.42] and was raised -[3512.42 --> 3513.28] three days later -[3513.28 --> 3514.46] victorious over -[3514.46 --> 3515.14] sin and death. -[3515.28 --> 3516.16] Jesus who came -[3516.16 --> 3517.26] once as a babe -[3517.26 --> 3518.02] and will come -[3518.02 --> 3519.24] again as king -[3519.24 --> 3520.18] of the universe. -[3520.58 --> 3522.04] This Jesus is -[3522.04 --> 3523.14] calling to you -[3523.14 --> 3524.64] now and he's -[3524.64 --> 3525.92] saying find your -[3525.92 --> 3527.92] meaning with me. -[3528.82 --> 3530.04] The truth of his -[3530.04 --> 3531.24] coming and the -[3531.24 --> 3532.10] hopeful truth of -[3532.10 --> 3533.26] his coming again -[3533.26 --> 3534.66] is the story by -[3534.66 --> 3535.46] which you can -[3535.46 --> 3537.00] narrate your life -[3537.00 --> 3538.52] in which you can -[3538.52 --> 3539.98] find meaning. -[3541.34 --> 3542.28] And look, I -[3542.28 --> 3545.08] know that you -[3545.08 --> 3545.70] are wondering -[3545.70 --> 3548.18] and I know that -[3548.18 --> 3549.22] you are wandering -[3549.22 --> 3551.34] and I know that -[3551.34 --> 3552.88] especially right now -[3552.88 --> 3553.34] with all the -[3553.34 --> 3555.14] chaoses of life -[3555.14 --> 3555.98] and the confusion -[3555.98 --> 3557.06] and the anxiety, -[3557.32 --> 3558.44] I know that you -[3558.44 --> 3559.36] are looking for -[3559.36 --> 3560.56] meaning and for -[3560.56 --> 3561.56] purpose that will -[3561.56 --> 3563.40] last and here -[3563.40 --> 3565.18] now this Christmas -[3565.18 --> 3567.70] this is Jesus, -[3568.00 --> 3569.46] the real Jesus -[3569.46 --> 3570.48] and yes, -[3570.62 --> 3571.74] while he commands -[3571.74 --> 3573.04] everything from you, -[3573.34 --> 3574.58] he loves you -[3574.58 --> 3576.00] and yes, -[3576.10 --> 3577.26] his word might -[3577.26 --> 3578.82] sometimes be hard -[3578.82 --> 3580.64] but it is always, -[3580.88 --> 3582.40] always true -[3582.40 --> 3583.82] and yes, -[3583.92 --> 3585.26] sometimes life in him -[3585.26 --> 3586.44] isn't necessarily -[3586.44 --> 3588.00] safe but it is -[3588.00 --> 3589.68] always good. -[3589.68 --> 3592.10] and yes, -[3592.30 --> 3594.32] this Christmas, -[3594.84 --> 3595.48] the incarnation -[3595.48 --> 3596.64] might seem -[3596.64 --> 3597.70] impossible -[3597.70 --> 3599.98] but oh my -[3599.98 --> 3601.06] God with -[3601.06 --> 3601.90] us, -[3602.38 --> 3602.66] it -[3602.66 --> 3604.18] is -[3604.18 --> 3605.56] beautiful. -[3606.64 --> 3607.02] Amen? -[3608.02 --> 3608.68] Amen. -[3609.02 --> 3609.42] Let's pray. -[3609.42 --> 3609.50] Amen. -[3609.50 --> 3615.56] Lord Jesus Christ, -[3615.96 --> 3617.12] we make much -[3617.12 --> 3617.80] of you -[3617.80 --> 3619.08] in our worship -[3619.08 --> 3619.92] today -[3619.92 --> 3620.64] and so make -[3620.64 --> 3621.54] much of yourself -[3621.54 --> 3623.00] in our hearts. -[3624.00 --> 3624.70] May we find -[3624.70 --> 3625.24] our meaning -[3625.24 --> 3626.66] and our purpose -[3626.66 --> 3628.32] in relationship -[3628.32 --> 3629.40] to you -[3629.40 --> 3631.82] as you reveal -[3631.82 --> 3632.44] truth, -[3632.56 --> 3633.20] as you are -[3633.20 --> 3634.32] the source -[3634.32 --> 3635.60] of all good -[3635.60 --> 3636.34] and as you -[3636.34 --> 3637.54] are most -[3637.54 --> 3638.56] beautiful, -[3638.78 --> 3639.52] captivate -[3639.52 --> 3641.20] our imaginations -[3641.20 --> 3642.90] that we might -[3642.90 --> 3643.76] find ourselves -[3643.76 --> 3645.28] in your -[3645.28 --> 3646.52] story. -[3648.14 --> 3649.10] That we might -[3649.10 --> 3650.08] know our lives -[3650.08 --> 3651.08] by the life, -[3651.26 --> 3651.46] death, -[3651.64 --> 3652.04] resurrection -[3652.04 --> 3652.98] and exaltation -[3652.98 --> 3654.06] of Jesus. -[3655.44 --> 3656.66] That we might -[3656.66 --> 3657.42] know your -[3657.42 --> 3658.24] heart -[3658.24 --> 3659.30] for this world -[3659.30 --> 3662.16] that caused -[3662.16 --> 3662.54] you, -[3662.74 --> 3663.48] eternal God, -[3663.58 --> 3664.22] to enter -[3664.22 --> 3665.96] into time. -[3666.16 --> 3666.66] Emmanuel, -[3667.42 --> 3667.82] God, -[3668.02 --> 3669.88] with us. -[3671.44 --> 3672.40] And so now, -[3672.54 --> 3673.04] Lord God, -[3673.16 --> 3673.92] this Christmas -[3673.92 --> 3674.40] day, -[3674.88 --> 3676.08] go with us -[3676.08 --> 3677.32] that we might -[3677.32 --> 3678.92] go with you. -[3680.76 --> 3681.76] Christ Jesus, -[3681.90 --> 3682.32] we pray. -[3682.32 --> 3683.82] Amen. -[3694.22 --> 3714.08] thingsS -[3716.20 --> 3721.10] and majesty, -[3721.10 --> 3724.98] Manhood and deity -[3724.98 --> 3728.72] In perfect harmony -[3728.72 --> 3733.18] The man who is God -[3733.18 --> 3736.34] Lord of eternity -[3736.34 --> 3740.26] Dwells in humanity -[3740.26 --> 3743.98] Kneels in humility -[3743.98 --> 3747.98] And washes our feet -[3747.98 --> 3751.84] Oh, what a mystery -[3751.84 --> 3755.66] Heakness and majesty -[3755.66 --> 3761.46] Bow down and worship -[3761.46 --> 3769.48] For this is your God -[3769.48 --> 3777.96] Father's pure mania -[3777.96 --> 3781.64] Perfect in innocence -[3781.64 --> 3784.64] Yet learns obedience -[3784.64 --> 3789.70] To death on a cross -[3789.70 --> 3793.52] Suffering to give us life -[3793.52 --> 3796.64] Longering through sacrifice -[3796.64 --> 3799.64] And as they crucify -[3799.64 --> 3803.64] Praise Father, forgive -[3803.64 --> 3807.32] Oh, what a mystery -[3807.32 --> 3812.00] Meekness and majesty -[3812.00 --> 3817.68] Bow down and worship -[3817.68 --> 3825.74] For this is your God -[3825.74 --> 3834.42] Wisdom unsearchable -[3834.42 --> 3837.42] God the invisible -[3837.42 --> 3841.42] Love indestructible -[3841.42 --> 3845.42] In frailty of years -[3845.42 --> 3849.10] Lord of infinity -[3849.10 --> 3850.10] Lord of infinity -[3850.10 --> 3854.10] Stormings all tenderly -[3854.10 --> 3857.10] Lift our humanity -[3857.10 --> 3861.10] To the heights of His throne -[3861.10 --> 3864.78] Oh, what a mystery -[3864.78 --> 3864.84] Oh, what a mystery -[3864.84 --> 3868.78] Meekness and majesty -[3868.78 --> 3874.46] Thou doubt and worship -[3874.46 --> 3882.46] For this is your God -[3882.46 --> 3886.14] Lord of infinity -[3886.14 --> 3899.14] As you go into today -[3899.14 --> 3902.00] Whatever that is going to look like -[3902.00 --> 3902.82] For you -[3902.82 --> 3904.94] Go first with an invitation -[3904.94 --> 3907.78] Know that we gather tomorrow -[3907.78 --> 3909.26] On Sunday for worship -[3909.26 --> 3911.40] At our regularly scheduled time -[3911.40 --> 3912.50] Of 10 a.m. -[3913.18 --> 3914.26] And we will continue -[3914.26 --> 3918.32] The story of Jesus' life together -[3918.32 --> 3920.82] And second as you go -[3920.82 --> 3923.58] Go with God's blessing -[3923.58 --> 3924.82] I invite you to receive -[3924.82 --> 3925.46] God's blessing -[3925.46 --> 3928.02] For the day and days ahead -[3928.02 --> 3931.64] May God go before you -[3931.64 --> 3932.96] To lead you -[3932.96 --> 3935.34] May God go behind you -[3935.34 --> 3936.62] To guard you -[3936.62 --> 3938.78] May God go beneath you -[3938.78 --> 3939.86] To support you -[3939.86 --> 3941.94] May God go beside you -[3941.94 --> 3943.06] To befriend you -[3943.06 --> 3945.58] Do not be afraid -[3945.58 --> 3947.70] Let the blessing of God -[3947.70 --> 3948.64] Come upon you today -[3948.64 --> 3950.66] Do not be afraid -[3950.66 --> 3953.34] But go in peace -[3953.34 --> 3956.36] To love and serve the Lord -[3956.36 --> 3958.16] Amen -[3958.16 --> 3966.92] Let the wilderness -[3966.92 --> 3968.98] And the towns -[3968.98 --> 3970.20] Raise their voices -[3970.20 --> 3972.14] Let them shout -[3972.14 --> 3973.66] From the mountaintops -[3977.70 --> 3983.34] Go tell it on the mountain -[3983.34 --> 3987.96] Over the hills and everywhere -[3987.96 --> 3992.14] Go tell it on the mountain -[3992.14 --> 3996.50] That Jesus Christ is born -[3996.50 --> 4000.90] While shepherds kept their watching -[4000.90 --> 4003.86] Or silent flocks -[4003.86 --> 4004.86] By night -[4004.86 --> 4006.82] Behold the world -[4006.82 --> 4007.82] Behold the world -[4007.82 --> 4008.82] The heavens -[4008.82 --> 4012.82] There shone a holy light -[4012.82 --> 4017.82] Go tell it on the mountain -[4017.82 --> 4019.82] Go tell it on the mountain -[4019.82 --> 4024.14] Over the hills and everywhere -[4024.14 --> 4028.20] Go tell it on the mountain -[4028.20 --> 4032.22] That Jesus Christ is born -[4032.22 --> 4033.22] The shepherds -[4033.22 --> 4037.18] The shepherds feared and trembled -[4037.18 --> 4041.18] Yet low upon the earth -[4041.18 --> 4043.14] Rang out the angels -[4043.14 --> 4045.14] Rang out the angels' chorus -[4045.14 --> 4049.78] That hailed our Savior's birth -[4049.78 --> 4055.14] Go tell it on the mountain -[4055.14 --> 4059.44] Over the hills and everywhere -[4059.44 --> 4063.44] Go tell it on the mountain -[4063.44 --> 4067.40] That Jesus Christ is born -[4067.40 --> 4068.24] That Jesus Christ is born -[4068.24 --> 4071.90] Down in the lowly stable -[4071.90 --> 4076.36] The humble Christ was born -[4076.36 --> 4080.36] And God sent us salvation -[4080.36 --> 4085.24] That blessed Christmas morn -[4085.24 --> 4090.20] Go tell it on the mountain -[4090.20 --> 4095.20] Over the hills and everywhere -[4095.20 --> 4099.08] Go tell it on the mountain -[4099.08 --> 4103.20] That Jesus Christ is born -[4103.20 --> 4118.56] A Christmas tradition in our church -[4118.56 --> 4121.12] that is reflective of the Dutch heritage -[4121.12 --> 4122.66] of some of our members -[4122.66 --> 4125.48] is to close the Christmas Day service -[4125.48 --> 4127.38] with this next song -[4127.38 --> 4129.34] Glory to God -[4129.34 --> 4132.04] We will have the words on the screen -[4132.04 --> 4134.14] in both English and Dutch languages -[4134.14 --> 4137.08] and encourage everyone to join us -[4137.08 --> 4138.28] in singing together -[4138.28 --> 4140.60] in whichever language you prefer -[4140.60 --> 4165.80] angé -[4165.80 --> 4170.80] In the highest -[4170.80 --> 4175.80] In your heart -[4176.50 --> 4179.80] Please be your love -[4180.58 --> 4185.24] In the peace and the well -[4185.24 --> 4189.80] Delighted -[4189.80 --> 4197.80] Is it all in the highest -[4197.80 --> 4206.80] Is it all in the highest -[4206.80 --> 4211.80] Please be your love -[4211.80 --> 4215.80] Please be your love -[4215.80 --> 4220.80] May you, O Mother -[4220.80 --> 4225.80] May you, O Mother -[4225.80 --> 4229.80] To live all the things -[4229.80 --> 4231.80] In the highest -[4231.80 --> 4232.80] In the highest -[4232.80 --> 4236.80] In the highest -[4236.80 --> 4239.80] And not delighting -[4239.80 --> 4252.28] oh -[4255.80 --> 4262.52] in the -[4262.52 --> 4281.40] Praise me on earth, praise me on earth, through the peace that God delights in. -[4281.40 --> 4290.56] Amen, amen. -[4292.52 --> 4295.72] Peace be with you. -[4322.52 --> 4324.52] Amen. -[4324.52 --> 4326.52] Amen. -[4326.52 --> 4328.52] Amen. -[4328.52 --> 4330.52] Amen. -[4330.52 --> 4332.52] Amen. -[4332.52 --> 4334.52] Amen. -[4334.52 --> 4336.52] Amen. -[4336.52 --> 4338.52] Amen. -[4338.52 --> 4368.50] Thank you. -[4368.52 --> 4398.50] Thank you. -[4398.52 --> 4428.50] Thank you. -[4428.52 --> 4458.50] Thank you. -[4458.52 --> 4460.52] Thank you. -[4488.52 --> 4490.52] Thank you. -[4518.52 --> 4520.52] Thank you. -[4548.52 --> 4550.52] Thank you. -[4578.52 --> 4580.52] Thank you. diff --git a/Christmas Day, December 25, 2025_summary.txt b/Christmas Day, December 25, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b3d295ad72383f0523beb62daae4b6252be172aa..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Christmas Day, December 25, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,57 +0,0 @@ -• Repeated expressions of "thank you" -• Opening prayer and liturgical elements -• Christmas prayer, focusing on humility and vulnerability -• Requests for guidance, peace, and light in a world filled with weariness and worry -• Thanksgiving and celebration of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection -• Call to stand and sing -• Praise to God -• Prayer for Tessa and her family -• Giving opportunities for missionaries in Mexico -• Prayers for those who are sick or awaiting treatment -• Prayer for peace and reconciliation in relationships -• Petitioning God's presence and sustaining power -• Thanksgiving and praise to God throughout the transcript -• Prayer and worship, asking God's peace and guidance -• Reading from the Gospel of John (John 1:1-14) -• Discussion of the play "Waiting for Godot" and its themes of waiting and disillusionment -• Comparison between the men in the play and believers who wait on God's presence and promise -• The play "Waiting for Godot" expresses a post-World War II fractured belief in the presumption of progress. -• The world in the play is indifferent to the characters' plight, leading them to be terrified that if Godot doesn't come, nothing has meaning. -• The play explores the idea that hope is a necessary delusion and that companionship replaces transcendence. -• Meaning must be improvised by the individual. -• Godot's haunting feature is that he is always almost present but never arrives. -• This theme echoes the human longing for something or someone that is always just out of reach, reflecting our current moment and emotions. -• The play contrasts with Christian theology, which posits that waiting culminates in arrival (incarnation), rather than perpetual delay. -• Waiting and longing for presence, connection, and meaning -• Human ache to not be alone and for reality to be meaningful -• Advent season themes of waiting and anticipation -• Longing to worship and experience the divine -• Spirituality vs. incarnation: promise of transcendence vs. human need -• World's attempts to fill the void without God: technology, achievement, self-expression -• Inadequacy of human efforts to find meaning and connection -• The true light and life of humanity, Jesus, has been with us since the beginning -• God's arrival in human form is not just a past event, but an ongoing reality -• Many people miss God because they cannot see past their own expectations and convictions about what God should do -• People often expect dramatic changes or solutions to problems when encountering God, leading them to assume God is distant or silent if these expectations are not met -• The presence of God can be gentle, slow, and close, but this is often uncomfortable for individuals who have strong ideas about how God should operate. -• The challenge of recognizing God's presence in times of difficulty and mess -• Misconceptions about judgment vs. mercy when God is present -• Humility as a key aspect of God's nature that can be overlooked -• The significance of the incarnation: God becoming flesh to be with us -• Understanding Christmas as God giving himself, not just gifts or help -• The Nicene Creed and its significance in understanding the nature of Christ -• The significance of the incarnation and God's presence with humanity -• Waiting, obedience, worship, and declaration of God's truth -• How Jesus Christ is the answer to human aches and longings -• The Christian life as living in a different way in the world, not necessarily having changed circumstances -• The role of followers of Jesus to be unexpected presences of God in various aspects of life -• Waiting and longing for Christmas is normal -• God's presence is near, regardless of life circumstances -• Jesus is humble, gentle, and meets us in our mess -• He is enough to wait, trust, obey, and worship -• God is with us through Jesus Christ -• Praying for a deeper understanding of God's presence -• Praying for transformation and the ability to spread hope to others -• Nvidia mentioned -• Gaøre acknowledged as the speaker's name -• Hymn or song being sung, with various verses repeated \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Christmas Day, December 25, 2025_transcript.txt b/Christmas Day, December 25, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index cb2f03eda9a9ad6f623da2bbb8e37ae3b2147ea5..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Christmas Day, December 25, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1024 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 3.80] Goddess -[3.80 --> 15.10] Your -[15.10 --> 18.18] quest -[18.18 --> 20.78] and -[20.78 --> 23.34] are -[23.34 --> 27.30] Right -[27.30 --> 57.28] Thank you. -[57.30 --> 87.28] Thank you. -[87.30 --> 117.28] Thank you. -[117.30 --> 147.28] Thank you. -[147.30 --> 177.28] Thank you. -[177.30 --> 207.28] Thank you. -[207.30 --> 237.28] Thank you. -[237.30 --> 267.28] Thank you. -[267.30 --> 297.28] Thank you. -[297.30 --> 327.28] Thank you. -[327.30 --> 357.28] Thank you. -[357.30 --> 387.28] Thank you. -[387.30 --> 417.28] Thank you. -[417.30 --> 447.28] Thank you. -[447.30 --> 477.28] Thank you. -[477.30 --> 507.28] Thank you. -[507.30 --> 537.28] Thank you. -[537.30 --> 567.28] Thank you. -[567.30 --> 597.28] Thank you. -[597.30 --> 627.28] Thank you. -[627.28 --> 657.26] Thank you. -[657.28 --> 687.26] Thank you. -[687.26 --> 717.24] Thank you. -[717.26 --> 747.24] Thank you. -[747.26 --> 777.24] Thank you. -[777.26 --> 807.24] Thank you. -[807.26 --> 837.24] Thank you. -[837.24 --> 867.22] Thank you. -[867.24 --> 897.22] Thank you. -[897.24 --> 927.22] Thank you. -[927.24 --> 957.22] Thank you. -[957.24 --> 987.22] Thank you. -[987.24 --> 1017.22] Good morning. -[1017.22 --> 1047.20] Welcome to this -[1047.20 --> 1077.18] Amen. -[1077.18 --> 1107.16] As we're in the presence of God. -[1107.16 --> 1137.14] All God's people said, amen. -[1137.14 --> 1167.12] Thank you. -[1167.14 --> 1197.12] This morning, we'll light the light, you're in the light, you're in the light, you're in the light, -[1197.12 --> 1227.10] Christ has come. -[1227.10 --> 1257.08] Thank you. -[1257.10 --> 1287.08] Thank you. -[1287.10 --> 1317.08] Thank you. -[1317.10 --> 1347.08] Thank you. -[1347.10 --> 1377.08] Thank you. -[1377.10 --> 1407.08] Come and adore, come and adore, come and adore, come and adore. -[1407.08 --> 1434.44] Prophet -[1437.08 --> 1439.08] o -[1439.08 --> 1441.08] o -[1441.08 --> 1443.08] o -[1443.08 --> 1445.08] o -[1445.08 --> 1447.08] o -[1447.08 --> 1449.08] o -[1449.08 --> 1451.08] o -[1451.08 --> 1453.08] o -[1453.08 --> 1455.08] o -[1455.08 --> 1457.08] o -[1457.08 --> 1459.08] o -[1459.08 --> 1461.08] o -[1461.08 --> 1463.08] o -[1463.08 --> 1465.08] o -[1465.08 --> 1495.06] Thank you. -[1495.08 --> 1525.06] Thank you. -[1525.08 --> 1527.08] Thank you. -[1527.08 --> 1529.08] Thank you. -[1529.08 --> 1531.08] Thank you. -[1531.08 --> 1533.08] Thank you. -[1533.08 --> 1535.08] Thank you. -[1535.08 --> 1537.08] Thank you. -[1537.08 --> 1539.08] Thank you. -[1539.08 --> 1541.08] Thank you. -[1541.08 --> 1543.08] Thank you. -[1543.08 --> 1545.08] Thank you. -[1545.08 --> 1548.08] Thank you. -[1548.08 --> 1549.08] Thank you. -[1549.08 --> 1551.08] Thank you. -[1551.08 --> 1571.62] Praise the mount I'm fixed upon it, mount of God's redeeming love. -[1571.62 --> 1581.96] Praise the mount I'm fixed upon it, mount of God's redeeming love. -[1584.54 --> 1588.70] Please be seated and join me in a Christmas prayer. -[1588.70 --> 1608.00] Jesus, Emmanuel, on this day of wonder we pause, not to add to the noise, but to lean into the quiet mystery of your arrival. -[1608.86 --> 1614.04] You came not with fanfare, but with humility, not in power, but in vulnerability. -[1614.82 --> 1617.26] Help us to see you in the unexpected places. -[1617.26 --> 1622.82] Lord, we confess we often race past the manger to get to the next thing. -[1623.70 --> 1624.78] Slow our hearts today. -[1625.62 --> 1627.62] Let us sit in the awe of your presence. -[1628.80 --> 1634.92] May we, like the shepherds, carry our ordinary lives into the extraordinary story of your love breaking in. -[1636.02 --> 1642.22] May we, like Mary, treasure the weight of your promises, holding them close even when they're hard to understand. -[1642.22 --> 1650.38] May we, like Joseph, listen for your guidance in the midst of uncertainty, trusting your hand even when the path isn't clear. -[1651.70 --> 1653.38] Jesus, you are our peace. -[1653.94 --> 1659.14] In a world that can feel heavy with weariness and worry, teach us to rest in your unshakable grace. -[1660.00 --> 1661.66] You are the light of the world. -[1662.28 --> 1664.72] Shine through us in small, steady ways. -[1664.72 --> 1668.78] Let our lives point others to the hope that only you can bring. -[1670.06 --> 1674.50] May our hearts, homes, and hands reflect the generosity of your love today. -[1675.96 --> 1681.42] Help us to give, to forgive, and to live in the freedom you came to offer. -[1682.44 --> 1686.96] We celebrate you, Jesus, not just your birth, but your life, death, and resurrection. -[1687.66 --> 1691.44] Thank you for stepping into our story so we could be part of yours. -[1691.72 --> 1692.04] Amen. -[1692.04 --> 1692.16] Amen. -[1692.16 --> 1692.20] Amen. -[1694.72 --> 1699.74] Please stand and sing with us. -[1701.30 --> 1707.02] Please rise. -[1707.02 --> 1722.02] Glory to God -[1722.02 --> 1727.14] Glory to God -[1727.14 --> 1729.82] In the highest -[1729.82 --> 1732.50] In the highest -[1732.50 --> 1738.34] In the highest -[1738.34 --> 1744.08] Praise be on earth -[1744.08 --> 1749.04] Praise be on earth -[1749.04 --> 1758.28] To the peace of whom God divides -[1758.28 --> 1762.48] Glory to God -[1762.48 --> 1764.48] Glory to God -[1764.48 --> 1768.32] In the highest -[1768.32 --> 1772.48] Glory to God -[1772.48 --> 1778.48] In the highest -[1778.48 --> 1784.32] Praise be on earth -[1784.32 --> 1788.48] Praise be on earth -[1788.48 --> 1794.48] Praise be on earth -[1794.48 --> 1799.48] Praise be on earth -[1799.48 --> 1802.48] To the people -[1802.48 --> 1804.48] To the people -[1804.48 --> 1808.48] To the people -[1808.48 --> 1810.48] Whom God delights in -[1810.48 --> 1812.48] To the people -[1812.48 --> 1814.48] Whom God delights in -[1814.48 --> 1816.48] Whom God delights in -[1816.48 --> 1817.48] Glory to God -[1817.48 --> 1829.48] Glory to God -[1829.48 --> 1830.48] Glory to God -[1830.48 --> 1832.48] In the highest -[1832.48 --> 1833.48] In the highest -[1833.48 --> 1834.48] In the highest -[1834.48 --> 1841.48] In the highest, in the highest -[1841.48 --> 1848.48] Praise be on earth -[1848.48 --> 1852.48] Praise be on earth -[1852.48 --> 1863.48] To the people who God delights in -[1863.48 --> 1869.48] Amen -[1869.48 --> 1875.48] Amen -[1893.48 --> 1899.48] I want to take just a moment and lead us in a little bit of a prayer -[1899.48 --> 1903.48] Before we pray, just a couple notes -[1903.48 --> 1909.48] First, there is an opportunity to give in your tithes and offerings today -[1909.48 --> 1913.48] We're doing a little bit differently because it is Christmas -[1913.48 --> 1917.48] And so the ordinary ways to give are still available -[1917.48 --> 1921.48] And you can see that there on the slide behind me -[1921.48 --> 1927.48] In addition to that, our giving today is in support of Jody and Uriel Gonzalez -[1927.48 --> 1929.48] We support our missionaries in Mexico -[1929.48 --> 1931.48] We support them through C10 -[1931.48 --> 1933.48] As many of you are aware -[1933.48 --> 1939.48] They had a bit of a circumstance happen with their move to a new property -[1939.48 --> 1941.48] And a washout that took place -[1941.48 --> 1945.48] And so we've been working with them and supporting them to repair that -[1945.48 --> 1949.48] And hopefully to partner with them in that work -[1949.48 --> 1951.48] And so you'll have an opportunity to give -[1951.48 --> 1953.48] As you leave today -[1953.48 --> 1955.48] Their deacons will be at the doors -[1955.48 --> 1956.48] And they'll have the bags there -[1956.48 --> 1958.48] You can give either directly there -[1958.48 --> 1961.48] There's envelopes in the seats in front of you -[1961.48 --> 1964.48] Please just designate your giving as you do so -[1964.48 --> 1965.48] Or you can give online -[1965.48 --> 1968.48] Additionally, before we pray -[1968.48 --> 1971.48] We have been praying for the past number of weeks -[1971.48 --> 1975.48] For Tessa, who's Jerry's daughter and Enoch's sister -[1975.48 --> 1977.48] Tessa is here this morning -[1977.48 --> 1979.48] And she would like to say thank you to everyone -[1979.48 --> 1982.48] For our praying for her -[1982.48 --> 1984.48] And so Tessa, we are grateful that you are here -[1984.48 --> 1987.48] We continue to pray that God will work in your life -[1987.48 --> 1989.48] So thanks for being with us this morning -[1989.48 --> 1997.48] Let's come to God in a time of prayer together -[1997.48 --> 2007.48] Glory to you, God -[2007.48 --> 2010.48] Glory to you in the highest -[2010.48 --> 2013.48] And peace on earth -[2013.48 --> 2017.48] To those on whom your favor rests -[2017.48 --> 2021.48] God, as we gather today for worship -[2021.48 --> 2025.48] May we experience your favor resting on us -[2025.48 --> 2028.48] May we experience your peace that comes -[2028.48 --> 2031.48] In the presence of your Holy Spirit -[2031.48 --> 2036.48] Your peace that comes because you have come to us -[2037.48 --> 2041.48] God, we pray that in this moment -[2041.48 --> 2042.48] And today -[2042.48 --> 2046.48] That you would be glorified in our midst -[2046.48 --> 2048.48] We pray that in this moment -[2048.48 --> 2050.48] And today and every day going forward -[2050.48 --> 2055.48] We would know the sustaining power of your presence -[2055.48 --> 2059.48] God, as we gather today -[2059.48 --> 2062.48] So many of us with family or with friends -[2062.48 --> 2067.48] We are especially mindful of those who don't gather with us -[2067.48 --> 2069.48] Mindful of those whom we have lost -[2069.48 --> 2073.48] Mindful of those whom relationships are strained -[2073.48 --> 2076.48] And so we pray -[2076.48 --> 2081.48] May the peace of this season -[2081.48 --> 2084.48] Pervade even into those relationships -[2086.48 --> 2089.48] May the memories of joy and stories -[2090.48 --> 2092.48] Encourage our hearts today -[2092.48 --> 2096.48] May we be the kind of people who -[2096.48 --> 2098.48] Because of the peace that we have from you -[2098.48 --> 2100.48] Are able to have hard -[2100.48 --> 2103.48] Reconciling and restoring conversations -[2103.48 --> 2105.48] With friends and families -[2105.48 --> 2107.48] With kids and loved ones -[2107.48 --> 2111.48] And may we be the kind of people who -[2111.48 --> 2113.48] Know your presence -[2113.48 --> 2117.48] And so God for those who are sick -[2117.48 --> 2120.48] For who are in the midst of treatment -[2120.48 --> 2121.48] Who are awaiting treatment -[2122.48 --> 2124.48] For those who have treatment upcoming -[2124.48 --> 2126.48] Even already this weekend -[2126.48 --> 2128.48] We pray for your hand to be upon them -[2128.48 --> 2131.48] Give them peace and sustaining power -[2131.48 --> 2136.48] And we pray that in this time of questioning -[2136.48 --> 2138.48] Answers may come -[2139.48 --> 2140.48] That a direction may be discerned -[2140.48 --> 2143.48] And that a path forward may reveal itself -[2144.48 --> 2146.48] And while we wait -[2147.48 --> 2149.48] May we know your peace -[2150.48 --> 2153.48] May we be a people who wait well -[2153.48 --> 2156.48] Because of your presence with us -[2156.48 --> 2159.48] Father God we praise you -[2159.48 --> 2161.48] For this great and glorious day -[2161.48 --> 2163.48] We praise you for the magnificence -[2163.48 --> 2165.48] Of your coming down to us -[2165.48 --> 2167.48] And may it be this morning -[2167.48 --> 2168.48] As we turn to your word -[2168.48 --> 2171.48] That we glimpse you more clearly -[2172.48 --> 2174.48] May we hear the voice of Jesus -[2175.48 --> 2177.48] Resonating in our hearts -[2177.48 --> 2178.48] And transforming our lives -[2179.48 --> 2180.48] And stirring in us -[2180.48 --> 2182.48] A Holy Spirit imagination -[2182.48 --> 2184.48] For what is possible -[2184.48 --> 2186.48] Because of what you have done -[2187.48 --> 2190.48] We pray this Jesus in your most holy name -[2191.48 --> 2192.48] Amen -[2193.48 --> 2194.48] Amen -[2196.48 --> 2197.48] If you have a Bible -[2197.48 --> 2198.48] I want to invite you to -[2199.48 --> 2201.48] Open it up to John 1 -[2202.48 --> 2203.48] If you have a device -[2203.48 --> 2204.48] You can get that ready -[2205.48 --> 2206.48] And we're going to read together -[2207.48 --> 2208.48] From John 1 -[2208.48 --> 2210.48] The first 14 verses -[2210.48 --> 2212.48] Of the Gospel of John -[2212.48 --> 2225.48] Allow me to read God's word for us this morning -[2227.48 --> 2229.48] In the beginning was the word -[2230.48 --> 2231.48] And the word was with God -[2232.48 --> 2233.48] And the word was God -[2234.48 --> 2235.48] He was with God in the beginning -[2236.48 --> 2239.48] Through him all things were made -[2239.48 --> 2241.48] Without him nothing was made -[2242.48 --> 2243.48] That has been made -[2244.48 --> 2245.48] In him was life -[2246.48 --> 2249.48] And that life was the light of all mankind -[2250.48 --> 2251.48] The light shines in the darkness -[2252.48 --> 2253.48] And the darkness has not overcome it -[2254.48 --> 2257.48] There was a man sent from God -[2258.48 --> 2259.48] Whose name was John -[2260.48 --> 2262.48] He came as a witness to testify concerning that light -[2263.48 --> 2264.48] So that through him all might believe -[2264.48 --> 2266.48] He himself was not the light -[2267.48 --> 2269.48] He came only as a witness to the light -[2270.48 --> 2273.48] The true light that gives light to everyone -[2274.48 --> 2275.48] Was coming into the world -[2276.48 --> 2277.48] He was in the world -[2277.48 --> 2279.48] And though the world was made through him -[2280.48 --> 2281.48] The world did not recognize him -[2282.48 --> 2283.48] He came to that which was his own -[2284.48 --> 2286.48] But his own did not receive him -[2287.48 --> 2289.48] Yet to all who did receive him -[2289.48 --> 2291.48] To those who believed in his name -[2292.48 --> 2294.48] He gave the right to become children of God -[2295.48 --> 2297.48] Children born not of natural descent -[2298.48 --> 2299.48] Nor of human decision -[2300.48 --> 2301.48] Or a husband's will -[2301.48 --> 2302.48] But born of God -[2303.48 --> 2305.48] The word became flesh -[2306.48 --> 2309.48] And made his dwelling among us -[2310.48 --> 2312.48] We have seen his glory -[2313.48 --> 2315.48] The glory of the one and only son -[2315.48 --> 2316.48] Who came from the father -[2316.48 --> 2318.48] Full of grace -[2319.48 --> 2320.48] And truth -[2321.48 --> 2322.48] This is the word of the Lord -[2323.48 --> 2324.48] Amen -[2328.48 --> 2331.48] Okay, to start this morning -[2332.48 --> 2334.48] I want to acknowledge that this is -[2335.48 --> 2337.48] Perhaps a deep cut or a bit of a niche pull -[2338.48 --> 2339.48] For some of you -[2340.48 --> 2341.48] But have any of you heard of the play -[2342.48 --> 2343.48] Waiting for Godot? -[2343.48 --> 2346.48] Six people, excellent -[2347.48 --> 2350.48] We have like five or six cultured people over here -[2351.48 --> 2352.48] And the rest of you -[2353.48 --> 2354.48] And Kevin, yeah -[2355.48 --> 2359.48] Waiting for Godot is a French play -[2360.48 --> 2361.48] Written by Samuel Beckett -[2362.48 --> 2363.48] In the early 1950s -[2364.48 --> 2368.48] It emerges from the post-World War II -[2369.48 --> 2370.48] Absurdist movement -[2370.48 --> 2373.48] That wrestled with meaning -[2374.48 --> 2375.48] In a world shattered -[2376.48 --> 2379.48] By the destruction of post-war Europe -[2380.48 --> 2384.48] And full of disillusionment and questioning -[2385.48 --> 2386.48] The play follows two men -[2387.48 --> 2389.48] Vladimir and Estragon -[2390.48 --> 2393.48] Who wait by a roadside for someone named Godot -[2394.48 --> 2395.48] Hence the title -[2396.48 --> 2398.48] Godot, however, never arrives -[2398.48 --> 2399.48] Never arrives -[2400.48 --> 2401.48] And so these two men -[2401.48 --> 2403.48] Fill the silence with talk -[2404.48 --> 2406.48] And with sort of ritualistic behavior -[2407.48 --> 2408.48] And with a kind of scheming -[2409.48 --> 2411.48] Not because they're certain he will come -[2412.48 --> 2415.48] But because they're waiting together -[2416.48 --> 2418.48] Provides shape for their lives -[2419.48 --> 2422.48] Gives them a moment to do something -[2422.48 --> 2424.48] The world that they encounter -[2425.48 --> 2428.48] As different people come on and off stage -[2429.48 --> 2431.48] Is not so much hostile to them -[2432.48 --> 2433.48] As it is indifferent -[2434.48 --> 2435.48] To the plight -[2436.48 --> 2439.48] And the characters are terrified -[2440.48 --> 2441.48] That if Godot doesn't come -[2442.48 --> 2443.48] Nothing has meaning -[2444.48 --> 2447.48] And there is no safety or purpose -[2447.48 --> 2448.48] Or purpose -[2449.48 --> 2450.48] So like I said, the play expresses -[2451.48 --> 2452.48] This post-World War II -[2453.48 --> 2454.48] Fractured belief -[2455.48 --> 2456.48] In the presumption of progress -[2457.48 --> 2458.48] Right? -[2459.48 --> 2460.48] This era is really the seedbed -[2461.48 --> 2463.48] For what will become the post-modern philosophies -[2464.48 --> 2465.48] Of French deconstructionism -[2466.48 --> 2467.48] And relativity -[2468.48 --> 2469.48] And in the midst of it -[2470.48 --> 2471.48] The world is being told that hope -[2471.48 --> 2472.48] Hope and feeling hope -[2473.48 --> 2474.48] Is less a conviction -[2475.48 --> 2476.48] That we cling to -[2477.48 --> 2478.48] And more of a necessary delusion -[2479.48 --> 2480.48] That we have to give ourselves over to -[2481.48 --> 2482.48] The play is telling us -[2483.48 --> 2485.48] That companionship in the world -[2486.48 --> 2487.48] Replaces transcendence -[2488.48 --> 2490.48] And that we just have to exist -[2491.48 --> 2492.48] As time passes us by -[2493.48 --> 2494.48] And the last bit that I want to note here -[2495.48 --> 2496.48] The play is trying to teach us -[2497.48 --> 2500.48] That meaning must be improvised -[2502.48 --> 2503.48] That you have to make it up -[2504.48 --> 2506.48] And in this play -[2507.48 --> 2509.48] Godot's most haunting feature -[2510.48 --> 2512.48] Is not who he is -[2513.48 --> 2515.48] Because we actually don't get to know that -[2516.48 --> 2518.48] His most haunting feature -[2519.48 --> 2520.48] Is that he is always -[2521.48 --> 2522.48] Almost present -[2523.48 --> 2525.48] He's always almost there -[2526.48 --> 2528.48] And their longing -[2529.48 --> 2530.48] Is never resolved -[2531.48 --> 2532.48] The ache remains open -[2532.48 --> 2533.48] Because their waiting -[2533.48 --> 2534.48] Is never satisfied -[2535.48 --> 2536.48] With his arrival -[2537.48 --> 2539.48] And for some of us -[2540.48 --> 2543.48] This 1953 play -[2544.48 --> 2545.48] Echoes our current moment -[2546.48 --> 2547.48] Echoes our hearts -[2548.48 --> 2549.48] Even right now -[2550.48 --> 2551.48] This is our truth, right? -[2552.48 --> 2553.48] There's this ache in us -[2553.48 --> 2554.48] For the always almost present -[2555.48 --> 2556.48] There's a longing -[2557.48 --> 2558.48] That's never resolved -[2558.48 --> 2559.48] That exists in our heart -[2559.48 --> 2560.48] That's always just open -[2561.48 --> 2562.48] And hoping -[2563.48 --> 2564.48] But we start to wonder -[2564.48 --> 2565.48] Is hope realistic? -[2565.48 --> 2566.48] Or is it this delusion -[2566.48 --> 2567.48] I have to buy myself into? -[2568.48 --> 2569.48] And Christmas, honestly -[2570.48 --> 2571.48] Is for many people -[2572.48 --> 2573.48] In the world today -[2573.48 --> 2574.48] A chance to disguise this reality -[2575.48 --> 2576.48] For just a brief moment -[2577.48 --> 2578.48] Right? -[2578.48 --> 2579.48] To color over it -[2579.48 --> 2580.48] With Hallmark movies -[2580.48 --> 2581.48] Or to stuff it full -[2581.48 --> 2582.48] With what Kevin says -[2582.48 --> 2583.48] Are apparently uncounted calories -[2584.48 --> 2586.48] But that fades -[2587.48 --> 2588.48] And our hunger returns -[2589.48 --> 2590.48] And that longing in us -[2591.48 --> 2592.48] Rises up again -[2593.48 --> 2595.48] Bubbles to the surface -[2596.48 --> 2597.48] In Samuel Beckett's world -[2598.48 --> 2599.48] Someone never comes -[2600.48 --> 2601.48] In the modern search for meaning -[2602.48 --> 2603.48] Everything feels elusive -[2603.48 --> 2610.48] Just out there -[2611.48 --> 2612.48] Always almost present -[2613.48 --> 2614.48] But the truth of Christmas -[2615.48 --> 2620.48] That shines so bright for us this morning -[2621.48 --> 2622.48] Is that someone is coming -[2623.48 --> 2624.48] That someone has come -[2624.48 --> 2625.48] And in fact -[2625.48 --> 2626.48] That someone will come again -[2627.48 --> 2628.48] Right? -[2628.48 --> 2629.48] And that contrast is that -[2629.48 --> 2630.48] It's the moment of the world -[2630.48 --> 2631.48] Right? -[2631.48 --> 2633.48] And that contrast is powerful -[2634.48 --> 2635.48] In Beckett's world -[2636.48 --> 2638.48] Waiting doesn't culminate in arrival -[2639.48 --> 2640.48] In John's Gospel -[2641.48 --> 2642.48] Waiting ends with incarnation -[2643.48 --> 2644.48] Right? -[2645.48 --> 2647.48] Where Beckett's characters fill the silence with talk -[2648.48 --> 2650.48] So that they don't disappear into nothingness -[2651.48 --> 2652.48] John proclaims boldly -[2653.48 --> 2654.48] The word became flesh -[2655.48 --> 2657.48] And made his dwelling among us -[2657.48 --> 2658.48] Waiting for Godot -[2659.48 --> 2660.48] Waiting for Godot -[2660.48 --> 2661.48] Is what the world looks like -[2661.48 --> 2662.48] If verse 14 never happens -[2662.48 --> 2666.48] And at the deepest level -[2667.48 --> 2668.48] The human longing -[2669.48 --> 2671.48] Beneath all other longings -[2672.48 --> 2673.48] Is not a longing simply for answers -[2674.48 --> 2675.48] Or for relief -[2675.48 --> 2676.48] Or for improvement -[2677.48 --> 2678.48] It's the longing for presence -[2679.48 --> 2680.48] Right? -[2680.48 --> 2681.48] The longing to be with someone -[2682.48 --> 2684.48] We ache to know that we are not alone -[2684.48 --> 2686.48] And that reality itself -[2687.48 --> 2688.48] Is not indifferent to us -[2689.48 --> 2690.48] And that the meaning is not something -[2691.48 --> 2693.48] We must manufacture alone in the dark -[2694.48 --> 2695.48] This is the ache -[2696.48 --> 2697.48] If you've been with us through our Advent season -[2698.48 --> 2699.48] This is the ache of the waiting -[2700.48 --> 2701.48] That Zechariah and Elizabeth -[2702.48 --> 2703.48] That Anna and Simeon had -[2704.48 --> 2706.48] This is the ache behind Mary's surrender -[2707.48 --> 2708.48] And Joseph's obedience -[2709.48 --> 2710.48] This is the ache behind the shepherds -[2711.48 --> 2712.48] Needing to tell someone what they have seen -[2712.48 --> 2715.48] And the Magi's longing to worship -[2716.48 --> 2717.48] This is the ache behind the angels -[2718.48 --> 2719.48] Singing a cosmic Christmas -[2720.48 --> 2721.48] Instead of a cutesy one -[2722.48 --> 2724.48] This is the ache of God with us -[2725.48 --> 2726.48] Of God come down -[2727.48 --> 2729.48] This is the ache of the word became flesh -[2730.48 --> 2731.48] And dwelled among us -[2732.48 --> 2734.48] Now, to be sure -[2735.48 --> 2736.48] The world around us -[2737.48 --> 2738.48] Doesn't deny that this ache exists -[2739.48 --> 2740.48] And really, how could it? -[2740.48 --> 2742.48] Because it's part of what it means to be created -[2743.48 --> 2744.48] In the image of God -[2744.48 --> 2745.48] Part of what it means to be human -[2745.48 --> 2748.48] Is that this rests and resides in us -[2749.48 --> 2750.48] But what the world does -[2750.48 --> 2752.48] And tries to convince all of us to do -[2753.48 --> 2754.48] Is to fill it -[2754.48 --> 2755.48] To solve it without God -[2756.48 --> 2758.48] The world whispers -[2759.48 --> 2760.48] The echoes of the lie -[2761.48 --> 2762.48] That you don't need God -[2762.48 --> 2766.48] And so technology and constant connection -[2767.48 --> 2768.48] Promise presence -[2769.48 --> 2772.48] But it comes without real intimacy -[2773.48 --> 2774.48] Right? -[2775.48 --> 2776.48] Achievement and legacy -[2777.48 --> 2778.48] Promise permanence -[2779.48 --> 2781.48] But at the cost of real relationship -[2782.48 --> 2785.48] Self-expression and the value of authenticity -[2786.48 --> 2787.48] Promises meaning -[2787.48 --> 2790.48] But it makes identity contingent on your feelings -[2791.48 --> 2792.48] And the affirmations of other people -[2793.48 --> 2796.48] Which, in my experience, are pretty fleeting -[2798.48 --> 2800.48] Spirituality without incarnation -[2800.48 --> 2801.48] Promises transcendence -[2801.48 --> 2802.48] Promises transcendence -[2803.48 --> 2804.48] And experience of the divine -[2804.48 --> 2805.48] But it actually gives no place -[2806.48 --> 2807.48] For it to live in you -[2812.48 --> 2813.48] And if I can be -[2815.48 --> 2817.48] Pastorally candid with you -[2819.48 --> 2821.48] These approaches -[2822.48 --> 2823.48] Aren't foolish -[2823.48 --> 2824.48] But they are anemic -[2825.48 --> 2828.48] And they're missing something -[2829.48 --> 2830.48] They're earnest -[2831.48 --> 2832.48] But they're built on our effort -[2833.48 --> 2834.48] And not on God's grace -[2835.48 --> 2836.48] Right? -[2836.48 --> 2837.48] They're sophisticated -[2837.48 --> 2838.48] And increasingly more so -[2839.48 --> 2840.48] But they confuse the reality -[2841.48 --> 2842.48] Of our circumstances -[2843.48 --> 2844.48] The deeper truth -[2844.48 --> 2845.48] That we're beginning to learn -[2845.48 --> 2846.48] And see -[2846.48 --> 2847.48] And reveal here -[2847.48 --> 2848.48] Is that -[2848.48 --> 2850.48] These ways of being in the world -[2850.48 --> 2851.48] Are ultimately insufficient -[2851.48 --> 2853.48] To hold the weight of glory -[2854.48 --> 2855.48] That we place on them -[2856.48 --> 2857.48] And John -[2858.48 --> 2859.48] Already knows this -[2859.48 --> 2860.48] He names this tragedy -[2861.48 --> 2862.48] With an almost brutal clarity -[2863.48 --> 2864.48] In verse 10 -[2865.48 --> 2866.48] He says -[2867.48 --> 2868.48] He was in the world -[2868.48 --> 2869.48] And though the world was made through him -[2870.48 --> 2872.48] The world did not recognize him -[2873.48 --> 2875.48] He came to that which was his own -[2876.48 --> 2878.48] But his own did not receive him -[2878.48 --> 2879.48] This -[2881.48 --> 2882.48] Ache in us -[2883.48 --> 2884.48] Remains -[2885.48 --> 2886.48] Because the world rejects -[2887.48 --> 2888.48] And doesn't even recognize -[2889.48 --> 2890.48] The very one who made us -[2891.48 --> 2894.48] And the only one who can satisfy us -[2895.48 --> 2897.48] The true answer to our need -[2898.48 --> 2899.48] And to our waiting -[2900.48 --> 2901.48] And to our longing -[2901.48 --> 2902.48] Is the arrival of God with us -[2903.48 --> 2906.48] The God-man, Emmanuel, Jesus -[2906.48 --> 2907.48] Jesus -[2908.48 --> 2910.48] And we can know that this is true -[2911.48 --> 2913.48] Because he is before all things -[2914.48 --> 2915.48] In the beginning was the word -[2916.48 --> 2917.48] And the word was with God -[2918.48 --> 2919.48] And the word was God -[2919.48 --> 2920.48] He was with God -[2921.48 --> 2922.48] In the beginning -[2923.48 --> 2924.48] He is before all of this -[2925.48 --> 2928.48] And if we want anything that lasts after all of this -[2929.48 --> 2930.48] Kind of makes sense to me -[2931.48 --> 2933.48] That we would look to what is there before all of this -[2933.48 --> 2934.48] Before there was longing -[2936.48 --> 2937.48] There was the word -[2938.48 --> 2940.48] And the story of the word -[2941.48 --> 2942.48] It doesn't begin in a manger -[2943.48 --> 2946.48] The story of Christmas actually begins already at creation -[2947.48 --> 2948.48] Right? -[2948.48 --> 2949.48] Through him all things were made -[2950.48 --> 2952.48] Without him nothing was made that has been made -[2953.48 --> 2954.48] In him was life -[2955.48 --> 2958.48] And that life was the light of all mankind -[2958.48 --> 2963.48] The word is the light of all humanity -[2964.48 --> 2966.48] The true light that gives light to everyone -[2967.48 --> 2968.48] Was coming into the world -[2969.48 --> 2970.48] And then comes this sentence -[2971.48 --> 2972.48] Right? -[2972.48 --> 2974.48] This reality redefining truth -[2975.48 --> 2976.48] The word became flesh -[2977.48 --> 2979.48] And made his dwelling among us -[2981.48 --> 2982.48] The counterpoint -[2983.48 --> 2984.48] Right? -[2984.48 --> 2985.48] The one that we have to attempt to reach God -[2985.48 --> 2986.48] Or to reject God -[2987.48 --> 2989.48] Is God coming to us? -[2990.48 --> 2994.48] So unlike when waiting for Godot -[2995.48 --> 2996.48] When waiting for God -[2997.48 --> 2998.48] He actually shows up -[2999.48 --> 3004.48] But this is the strange miracle of Christmas -[3005.48 --> 3009.48] And this is the part that the story -[3009.48 --> 3011.48] The story and the people of the story -[3011.48 --> 3012.48] And the people of today -[3012.48 --> 3013.48] And the people of today -[3013.48 --> 3015.48] Often unbeknownst to them -[3015.48 --> 3017.48] Still reenact every Christmas -[3018.48 --> 3019.48] And increasingly so -[3020.48 --> 3021.48] In our post-Christian culture -[3021.48 --> 3024.48] We reenact this every day of the year -[3026.48 --> 3029.48] The world didn't recognize Jesus -[3030.48 --> 3031.48] As God come down -[3032.48 --> 3034.48] Not because he was absent -[3034.48 --> 3038.48] But because he was too close -[3039.48 --> 3041.48] Because he was too humble -[3042.48 --> 3043.48] He was too embodied -[3044.48 --> 3045.48] Too weak -[3046.48 --> 3047.48] Too much a baby -[3048.48 --> 3049.48] Too ordinary -[3050.48 --> 3052.48] To fit into our expectations -[3053.48 --> 3054.48] Of God showing up -[3055.48 --> 3056.48] Right? -[3056.48 --> 3058.48] Most people missed the Messiah -[3059.48 --> 3061.48] Because they couldn't see past their own convictions -[3061.48 --> 3063.48] And ideas about what God should do -[3064.48 --> 3065.48] And the same is true today -[3066.48 --> 3067.48] Right? -[3067.48 --> 3068.48] And this isn't just out there -[3069.48 --> 3070.48] It's in here -[3070.48 --> 3071.48] And even more so -[3071.48 --> 3072.48] It's in here -[3073.48 --> 3074.48] Right? -[3074.48 --> 3075.48] My ideas -[3076.48 --> 3077.48] About what God should do -[3078.48 --> 3080.48] Lead me to miss -[3081.48 --> 3082.48] What God is doing -[3083.48 --> 3086.48] I miss him -[3087.48 --> 3088.48] Because God is gentler -[3089.48 --> 3090.48] Than I expect -[3092.48 --> 3093.48] I miss him -[3093.48 --> 3095.48] Because he's often slower -[3096.48 --> 3097.48] Than I want -[3098.48 --> 3099.48] And I miss him -[3100.48 --> 3102.48] Because he is regularly -[3103.48 --> 3104.48] Closer to me -[3105.48 --> 3106.48] Than I am comfortable with -[3109.48 --> 3110.48] Look -[3111.48 --> 3113.48] Maybe you have really strong ideas -[3114.48 --> 3115.48] About what God should do -[3116.48 --> 3117.48] Right? -[3117.48 --> 3119.48] If God is really at work in the world -[3119.48 --> 3121.48] You expect your problems to resolve -[3122.48 --> 3123.48] Your diseases to be healed -[3124.48 --> 3125.48] Your habits to break -[3126.48 --> 3127.48] You expect clarity to -[3128.48 --> 3129.48] For what to do next to come -[3130.48 --> 3132.48] You expect peace to arrive quickly -[3133.48 --> 3134.48] And when that doesn't happen -[3135.48 --> 3136.48] You then assume that God is distant -[3137.48 --> 3138.48] Or that he's somehow disappointed with you -[3139.48 --> 3140.48] Or that he's silent -[3141.48 --> 3143.48] Because he doesn't love you -[3143.48 --> 3144.48] Love you -[3145.48 --> 3146.48] But what if -[3147.48 --> 3148.48] What if you're not missing God -[3149.48 --> 3150.48] Because he's absent -[3151.48 --> 3152.48] But because he is present -[3153.48 --> 3154.48] In a way that you didn't plan for -[3156.48 --> 3158.48] He's present in a way that you can't anticipate -[3158.48 --> 3159.48] When Christ comes near us -[3160.48 --> 3163.48] When Christ comes near us in our mess -[3164.48 --> 3165.48] We often misread his presence -[3166.48 --> 3167.48] Right? -[3167.48 --> 3169.48] We brace ourselves thinking that judgment is coming -[3170.48 --> 3172.48] When in fact mercy has arrived -[3173.48 --> 3174.48] Right? -[3174.48 --> 3175.48] We wait for God to fix us -[3176.48 --> 3178.48] But instead he chooses to sustain us -[3179.48 --> 3180.48] In the midst of the trial -[3181.48 --> 3182.48] We look for him above us -[3183.48 --> 3184.48] Kind of cowering -[3184.48 --> 3185.48] Because we're worried about judgment -[3185.48 --> 3186.48] When in fact -[3186.48 --> 3187.48] He's standing right beside you -[3187.48 --> 3188.48] With his arms open -[3188.48 --> 3189.48] Waiting to embrace you -[3190.48 --> 3195.48] The tragedy of this moment is -[3196.48 --> 3197.48] Is not that God has failed to show up -[3198.48 --> 3200.48] It's that he's shown up in humility -[3201.48 --> 3204.48] And humility is easy to overlook -[3205.48 --> 3208.48] To put it another way -[3209.48 --> 3211.48] Humility doesn't get clicks -[3211.48 --> 3216.48] God comes close enough to be touched -[3217.48 --> 3219.48] God comes close enough to be misunderstood -[3220.48 --> 3222.48] He comes close enough to be rejected -[3223.48 --> 3225.48] And that's why John doesn't simply say -[3226.48 --> 3227.48] That the word spoke to us -[3227.48 --> 3228.48] Or that the word ruled over us -[3229.48 --> 3230.48] But he says the word became flesh -[3231.48 --> 3233.48] And made his dwelling among us -[3234.48 --> 3235.48] The God that we long for -[3236.48 --> 3237.48] Doesn't stand at a distance -[3237.48 --> 3238.48] Waiting for us to improve -[3238.48 --> 3240.48] Waiting for us to come to him -[3241.48 --> 3242.48] He comes near -[3243.48 --> 3244.48] Lowly in heart -[3244.48 --> 3245.48] And gentle in spirit -[3245.48 --> 3246.48] To be with us -[3247.48 --> 3248.48] Christmas is not God giving -[3249.48 --> 3250.48] What we expected -[3251.48 --> 3253.48] It is God giving us himself -[3261.48 --> 3262.48] And so that's the thing -[3263.48 --> 3265.48] Alright, we can't understand Christmas -[3265.48 --> 3266.48] Unless we understand -[3266.48 --> 3267.48] Unless we understand -[3268.48 --> 3269.48] Who has come -[3270.48 --> 3272.48] The church throughout history -[3273.48 --> 3274.48] Has worked hard -[3275.48 --> 3276.48] To help us understand -[3277.48 --> 3278.48] Who has come -[3279.48 --> 3280.48] By pulling together different creeds -[3281.48 --> 3282.48] And confessions, different statements -[3283.48 --> 3286.48] And this past year, 2025 -[3287.48 --> 3289.48] Was the 1700th anniversary -[3290.48 --> 3291.48] Of the Nicene Creed -[3291.48 --> 3292.48] Which comes to us -[3292.48 --> 3293.48] Which comes to us -[3293.48 --> 3295.48] From 325 A.D. -[3296.48 --> 3297.48] And I just want to put -[3297.48 --> 3298.48] A part of that on the screen -[3298.48 --> 3299.48] Behind us -[3299.48 --> 3300.48] Holding up -[3301.48 --> 3302.48] The Gospel of John -[3302.48 --> 3303.48] That we have read beside it -[3304.48 --> 3305.48] As we try to wrestle with -[3306.48 --> 3308.48] Who is that has come -[3309.48 --> 3312.48] Right, this is what John -[3313.48 --> 3315.48] And the church coming out of this text -[3316.48 --> 3317.48] Have taught us -[3318.48 --> 3319.48] Who has come at Christmas -[3319.48 --> 3320.48] First -[3321.48 --> 3324.48] That he is begotten of the Father -[3325.48 --> 3326.48] Before all ages -[3327.48 --> 3328.48] That is eternally begotten -[3329.48 --> 3330.48] Not created, right? -[3330.48 --> 3331.48] In the beginning was the Word -[3332.48 --> 3334.48] That he is of the same essence -[3335.48 --> 3336.48] As the Father -[3336.48 --> 3337.48] The Word was with God -[3338.48 --> 3339.48] And the Word was God -[3340.48 --> 3341.48] And that through him -[3342.48 --> 3343.48] All things were made -[3344.48 --> 3346.48] Through him all things were made -[3346.48 --> 3348.48] Without him nothing was made -[3349.48 --> 3350.48] That has been made -[3351.48 --> 3353.48] Right, this Jesus who comes -[3354.48 --> 3356.48] Is not God's representative -[3357.48 --> 3359.48] It's not some other lesser divine being -[3360.48 --> 3361.48] It's not some moral teacher -[3361.48 --> 3363.48] That people later chose to exalt -[3364.48 --> 3366.48] This being who has come to us -[3367.48 --> 3368.48] In the manger at Christmas -[3369.48 --> 3370.48] Is true God from true God -[3370.48 --> 3371.48] The eternal Son -[3372.48 --> 3373.48] The one through whom -[3373.48 --> 3374.48] And for whom -[3374.48 --> 3375.48] All things exist -[3376.48 --> 3379.48] Now stepping into his creation -[3380.48 --> 3382.48] Christmas isn't God just sending help -[3383.48 --> 3384.48] Christmas is God himself -[3385.48 --> 3387.48] Coming into the world -[3388.48 --> 3389.48] This is the miracle of Christmas -[3390.48 --> 3391.48] That he who is mighty -[3392.48 --> 3393.48] Has done a great thing -[3393.48 --> 3394.48] Has taken on flesh -[3394.48 --> 3395.48] And conquered death's sting -[3395.48 --> 3396.48] Shattered the darkness -[3397.48 --> 3398.48] And lifted our shame -[3400.48 --> 3401.48] And so all of our waiting -[3402.48 --> 3403.48] Obedience -[3403.48 --> 3404.48] All of our worship -[3405.48 --> 3406.48] All of the heavenly declaration -[3407.48 --> 3408.48] At this time -[3408.48 --> 3410.48] Come together in Jesus Christ -[3411.48 --> 3412.48] Emmanuel -[3413.48 --> 3414.48] God with us -[3415.48 --> 3416.48] And this is our big idea here -[3416.48 --> 3417.48] This is the purpose of it all -[3418.48 --> 3419.48] All waiting -[3419.48 --> 3420.48] All obedience -[3420.48 --> 3421.48] All worship -[3421.48 --> 3422.48] All heavenly declaration -[3422.48 --> 3424.48] Come together in Jesus Christ -[3425.48 --> 3426.48] God with us -[3427.48 --> 3428.48] What Elizabeth and Zechariah -[3429.48 --> 3430.48] Anna and Simeon -[3430.48 --> 3431.48] Waited for -[3431.48 --> 3432.48] He fulfills -[3433.48 --> 3434.48] What Mary and Joseph obeyed -[3434.48 --> 3435.48] He accomplishes -[3436.48 --> 3437.48] What the shepherds and the Magi -[3437.48 --> 3438.48] Worshipped -[3438.48 --> 3439.48] He is -[3440.48 --> 3441.48] What the angels declared -[3441.48 --> 3442.48] He brings about -[3443.48 --> 3445.48] The word does not merely speak grace -[3446.48 --> 3447.48] He is grace -[3448.48 --> 3450.48] We have seen his glory -[3450.48 --> 3452.48] The glory of the one and only son -[3452.48 --> 3453.48] Who came from the father -[3453.48 --> 3454.48] Full of grace -[3455.48 --> 3456.48] And truth -[3456.48 --> 3458.48] The word does not merely speak truth -[3458.48 --> 3459.48] He is truth -[3460.48 --> 3464.48] The answer -[3465.48 --> 3470.48] The answer to our deepest ache -[3471.48 --> 3472.48] Is right here -[3473.48 --> 3475.48] Not explanation -[3475.48 --> 3476.48] Not explanation -[3477.48 --> 3478.48] But incarnation -[3479.48 --> 3480.48] Not escape -[3481.48 --> 3482.48] But presence -[3483.48 --> 3484.48] Not improvement -[3484.48 --> 3485.48] But communion -[3486.48 --> 3487.48] With your God -[3488.48 --> 3489.48] And look -[3490.48 --> 3491.48] Here is the reality for us -[3492.48 --> 3493.48] Right? -[3493.48 --> 3494.48] Our circumstances may not change -[3495.48 --> 3496.48] Right? -[3496.48 --> 3497.48] In this text -[3497.48 --> 3498.48] In this time -[3498.48 --> 3499.48] Rome still rules -[3500.48 --> 3501.48] Herod still rages -[3501.48 --> 3503.48] Because life is still fragile -[3504.48 --> 3506.48] Most of us are still waiting for something -[3507.48 --> 3510.48] But you change -[3511.48 --> 3512.48] Because God is now with you -[3513.48 --> 3515.48] Your expectations change -[3516.48 --> 3517.48] Because God has come -[3518.48 --> 3519.48] And so you can face suffering -[3520.48 --> 3521.48] Knowing that God has entered into it -[3522.48 --> 3523.48] You can endure waiting -[3523.48 --> 3524.48] Knowing that God honors it -[3525.48 --> 3527.48] You can obey knowing that God has done it -[3527.48 --> 3533.48] You can worship knowing that heaven and earth have met in Christ Jesus -[3534.48 --> 3537.48] The Christian life is not a promise of a different world -[3538.48 --> 3540.48] At least not a promise of a different world right now -[3541.48 --> 3542.48] Not yet -[3543.48 --> 3547.48] But it is a promise of a different way of being in the world right now -[3548.48 --> 3552.48] Because the son has taken on our flesh and made it his home -[3552.48 --> 3554.48] This Christmas -[3555.48 --> 3557.48] And this is Christmas -[3558.48 --> 3559.48] God is not far away -[3560.48 --> 3561.48] This is not God waiting to be found -[3562.48 --> 3564.48] But God dwelling with us -[3565.48 --> 3568.48] The word became flesh and made his dwelling among us -[3569.48 --> 3570.48] And so this Christmas -[3571.48 --> 3574.48] Have your expectations reshaped -[3575.48 --> 3576.48] And then go -[3577.48 --> 3579.48] Be the unexpected presence of God -[3579.48 --> 3580.48] In your homes -[3580.48 --> 3581.48] In your homes -[3581.48 --> 3582.48] And in your families -[3582.48 --> 3583.48] In your workplaces -[3583.48 --> 3584.48] In your schools -[3584.48 --> 3585.48] On your sports teams -[3586.48 --> 3587.48] And in your knitting clubs -[3588.48 --> 3589.48] Right? -[3589.48 --> 3590.48] People who don't know Jesus -[3591.48 --> 3594.48] Expect his followers to be a certain way in the world -[3595.48 --> 3597.48] And so surprise them -[3598.48 --> 3599.48] With your gentleness -[3600.48 --> 3601.48] And respect -[3602.48 --> 3604.48] Surprise them -[3605.48 --> 3606.48] With your reasonableness -[3606.48 --> 3607.48] And your empathy -[3607.48 --> 3608.48] Right? -[3608.48 --> 3610.48] The world expects a particular kind of person -[3610.48 --> 3612.48] To come out of church on Sunday morning -[3613.48 --> 3614.48] Surprise them -[3615.48 --> 3616.48] With your generosity -[3617.48 --> 3618.48] And with your humility -[3619.48 --> 3622.48] Jesus is who your heart aches for -[3623.48 --> 3624.48] And in his heart -[3625.48 --> 3627.48] He desires for you to come near -[3628.48 --> 3629.48] So much so -[3630.48 --> 3631.48] That he came to us -[3632.48 --> 3634.48] And so if you're still waiting -[3634.48 --> 3635.48] This Christmas -[3635.48 --> 3637.48] Know that you're not left behind -[3638.48 --> 3639.48] If you're still weary -[3640.48 --> 3641.48] Still uncertain -[3641.48 --> 3642.48] Still longing -[3643.48 --> 3644.48] You are not failing -[3645.48 --> 3647.48] The good news of Christmas -[3648.48 --> 3649.48] Is not that your life -[3649.48 --> 3650.48] Has finally come together -[3651.48 --> 3652.48] But that God has come near -[3653.48 --> 3654.48] Right? -[3654.48 --> 3655.48] The waiting doesn't disqualify you -[3656.48 --> 3657.48] The longing in your heart -[3657.48 --> 3658.48] Doesn't surprise him -[3659.48 --> 3660.48] The mess of your life -[3660.48 --> 3661.48] Doesn't repel him -[3661.48 --> 3663.48] This is the God -[3663.48 --> 3664.48] Who dwells -[3664.48 --> 3665.48] Among us -[3665.48 --> 3666.48] This is the word -[3666.48 --> 3667.48] Who became flesh -[3667.48 --> 3668.48] This is Jesus -[3669.48 --> 3670.48] Humble and gentle -[3671.48 --> 3672.48] In heart -[3672.48 --> 3673.48] Who meets you -[3673.48 --> 3674.48] Not on the other side -[3674.48 --> 3675.48] Of your circumstances -[3675.48 --> 3676.48] But right here -[3677.48 --> 3678.48] Right now -[3679.48 --> 3680.48] And he is enough -[3682.48 --> 3683.48] Enough to wait -[3684.48 --> 3685.48] Enough to trust -[3686.48 --> 3687.48] Enough to obey -[3687.48 --> 3689.48] And enough to worship -[3690.48 --> 3692.48] Because in Jesus Christ -[3693.48 --> 3696.48] God is with us -[3697.48 --> 3698.48] Amen -[3699.48 --> 3700.48] Let's pray together -[3706.48 --> 3707.48] Lord Jesus -[3708.48 --> 3712.48] Open the eyes of our heart -[3713.48 --> 3715.48] That we might see you -[3715.48 --> 3716.48] This morning -[3716.48 --> 3718.48] Open the eyes of our heart -[3718.48 --> 3720.48] That we might know you -[3720.48 --> 3721.48] This morning -[3722.48 --> 3726.48] May we hear your voice -[3727.48 --> 3729.48] And go transformed -[3730.48 --> 3731.48] Into whatever today -[3732.48 --> 3733.48] And tomorrow -[3733.48 --> 3734.48] And the next day -[3734.48 --> 3735.48] And the week to come -[3736.48 --> 3737.48] May we go -[3738.48 --> 3740.48] Declaring your presence -[3740.48 --> 3742.48] May we come -[3742.48 --> 3743.48] May we come -[3743.48 --> 3744.48] May we come as a people -[3745.48 --> 3746.48] Who have met you -[3747.48 --> 3748.48] In our mess -[3750.48 --> 3751.48] And who are used by you -[3752.48 --> 3753.48] To bring the hope -[3753.48 --> 3754.48] Of the nations -[3754.48 --> 3755.48] To the nations -[3756.48 --> 3757.48] Who are used by you -[3757.48 --> 3759.48] To reveal your kingdom come -[3759.48 --> 3760.48] And your kingdom coming -[3761.48 --> 3764.48] And so teach us your gentleness -[3764.48 --> 3765.48] And respect -[3766.48 --> 3767.48] Teach us your humility -[3768.48 --> 3769.48] And empathy -[3770.48 --> 3772.48] That we might surprise people -[3773.48 --> 3774.48] With a hope -[3775.48 --> 3776.48] That endures -[3777.48 --> 3779.48] May this be our Christmas gift -[3780.48 --> 3782.48] To a world crying out for you -[3783.48 --> 3785.48] In Jesus name we pray -[3786.48 --> 3787.48] Amen -[3788.48 --> 3789.48] Amen -[3789.48 --> 3790.48] Amen -[3819.48 --> 3823.48] Come Thou long expected Jesus -[3824.48 --> 3828.48] Born to set Thy people free -[3829.48 --> 3834.48] From our fears and sins releases -[3835.48 --> 3840.48] Let us find our rest in Thee -[3840.48 --> 3843.48] Israel -[3843.48 --> 3847.48] Israel strength and consolation -[3848.48 --> 3852.48] Hope of all the earth Thou art -[3853.48 --> 3858.48] Dear desire of every nation -[3859.48 --> 3864.48] Joy of every longing heart -[3864.48 --> 3867.48] Born Thy people to deliver -[3867.48 --> 3876.48] Born a child and yet a king -[3877.48 --> 3882.48] Born to reign in us forever -[3883.48 --> 3888.48] Now Thy gracious kingdom bring -[3888.48 --> 3894.48] By Thine own eternal spirit -[3895.48 --> 3900.48] Rule in all our hearts alone -[3901.48 --> 3906.48] By Thine all-sufficient merit -[3907.48 --> 3911.48] Raise us to Thy glorious throne -[3911.48 --> 3926.48] In just a moment we're going to sing our closing song -[3927.48 --> 3930.48] Led again by our ensemble up here -[3931.48 --> 3934.48] Before you go know that God himself goes with you -[3935.48 --> 3939.48] And so receive the blessing of our good God -[3939.48 --> 3941.48] God -[3942.48 --> 3943.48] God go before you to lead you -[3944.48 --> 3946.48] God go behind you to protect you -[3947.48 --> 3949.48] God go beneath you to support you -[3950.48 --> 3952.48] And God go beside you to befriend you -[3953.48 --> 3955.48] Do not be afraid -[3956.48 --> 3958.48] Let the blessing of God come upon you today -[3959.48 --> 3964.48] Do not be afraid but go in peace to love and serve the Lord -[3965.48 --> 3966.48] Amen -[3969.48 --> 3972.48] Amen -[3972.48 --> 3973.48] Amen -[3974.48 --> 3975.48] Vincent -[3976.48 --> 3978.48] Nvidia -[3978.48 --> 3985.48] Gaøre -[3990.48 --> 3991.48] Yes, that's me -[3992.48 --> 3994.48] Oh, always -[3994.48 --> 4017.70] Joy to the world, the Lord is come. -[4017.70 --> 4024.54] Let earth receive our King. -[4024.96 --> 4032.52] Let every heart prepare Him new. -[4032.80 --> 4035.94] And heaven and nature sing. -[4036.26 --> 4039.60] And heaven and nature sing. -[4039.60 --> 4047.30] And heaven and nature sing. -[4047.70 --> 4054.66] Joy to the earth, the Savior reigns. -[4054.66 --> 4060.88] Let all their songs inflow. -[4060.88 --> 4068.66] What fields and floods, what seals and plains. -[4068.66 --> 4072.04] Repeat the sounding joy. -[4072.04 --> 4075.54] Repeat the sounding joy. -[4075.54 --> 4082.50] Repeat, repeat the sounding joy. -[4082.50 --> 4112.50] -[4112.50 --> 4119.46] As far as the curse is found. -[4119.46 --> 4125.46] He rules the world with truth and grace. -[4125.46 --> 4132.42] And makes the nations breathe. -[4132.42 --> 4138.42] The glory is of His righteousness. -[4138.42 --> 4145.38] And wonders of His love. -[4145.38 --> 4154.34] And wonders of His love. -[4154.34 --> 4158.70] Overb magnets use of His grace to deliver -[4159.34 --> 4163.30] into a Mark. -[4163.30 --> 4165.30] And desire the seventh... -[4165.30 --> 4170.30] Let all your li shape Jill again and his love -[4170.30 --> 4173.24] we will, will, of this being our Savior... -[4173.24 --> 4175.24] Amen. -[4203.24 --> 4205.24] Amen. -[4233.24 --> 4235.24] Amen. -[4263.24 --> 4265.24] Amen. -[4293.24 --> 4295.24] Amen. -[4323.24 --> 4325.24] Amen. -[4353.24 --> 4355.24] Amen. -[4383.24 --> 4385.24] Amen. -[4413.24 --> 4415.24] Amen. -[4443.24 --> 4445.24] Amen. -[4473.24 --> 4475.24] Amen. diff --git a/Christmas Day, December 25, 2024_summary.txt b/Christmas Day, December 25, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d6210d8d17aab7330060035fcd44ce969babaaec..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Christmas Day, December 25, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,86 +0,0 @@ -• A person singing about being away from home on Christmas -• A song about a baby sent from heaven to save the world (Jesus) -• Announcements for a church service, including a welcome message, seating instructions, and an invitation to a church family skate event at Canlan Arena -• A poster on the door and rolling announcements provide details about the service -• The pastor invites attendees to stand, receive God's greeting, and welcome each other in worship -• The Christmas candle is lit together as a symbol of celebration -• The pastor leads a prayer invoking God's blessing, peace, and presence -• The congregation sings "O Come All Ye Faithful" -• A biblical passage or hymn is sung with lyrics referencing Jesus, the King of angels, and praise to God -• Messiah's birth and worship of Christ the new born King -• Emmanuel, God who saves us, worthy of all praise -• Welcome and worship Lord Jesus -• The birth of Christ: fragile, defenseless, entrusted to human care -• Creator becomes creation, God's word in human form -• Sin pierces Christ's flesh, curtain tears apart -• Rebirth and relationship with God through Christ -• Christmas tradition song "Glory to God" sung in English and Dutch -• Introduction to a worship service, including praise and hymns -• Announcement of an offering for budget and benevolence -• Discussion on generosity and giving -• Storytelling about Jesus' birth and gift of love -• Explanation of why people open presents on Christmas -• Connection between opening presents and the gift of Jesus -• Discussion about activities for children during worship time -• Prayer led by a speaker, thanking God for Christmas Day and celebrating Jesus' birth -• Explanation of the importance of Jesus taking on human form as a servant -• Church family prayer led by an elder, Dave -• Confession of sinfulness and need for reconciliation with God through Jesus -• Thanks given for various aspects of the church community, including leadership, ministries, and members -• Prayers for safe travels, comfort, peace, and presence for those experiencing hardship or loneliness -• Specific prayers for individuals and their health struggles -• The speaker discusses the impermanence of life and how people often become numb to the miracle of Christmas. -• Many people view Christmas as a time for physical indulgence (food, rest) rather than spiritual reflection. -• The speaker acknowledges that Christmas is "strange" and "impossible" in its true nature, which is often lost amidst cultural influences and traditions. -• Some attendees may be distracted by personal struggles or circumstances such as disease, death, worry, or work. -• The speaker aims to help the audience re-discover the marvel of Christmas Day. -• The speaker sets the stage for a discussion of Isaiah, specifically chapter 7. -• King Ahaz, king of Judah, is presented with a choice between trusting God or making a deal with the Assyrian Empire. -• Ahaz chooses to make a deal with the Assyrians, which ultimately leads to his downfall due to his misplaced trust in human power rather than divine guidance. -• The speaker highlights the importance of distinguishing between what is passing (immediate threats) and what is significant (the deeper reality and God's perspective). -• John Oswalt's quote emphasizes the danger of paying too much attention to surface-level issues and neglecting more important, underlying truths. -• Ahaz's lack of trust in God leads to a cycle of panic, fear, poor decision-making, and consequences -• Isaiah challenges Ahaz to ask God for a sign, but Ahaz refuses out of willful ignorance or pride -• Ahaz's response is feigned piety, using spiritual language to avoid acknowledging his own mistakes -• The only way to break the cycle of panic and fear is to trust in God's sovereignty and goodness -• The relationship between evidence and faith -• Evidence cannot create faith through argument or persuasion -• Faith is necessary to understand and interpret evidence -• Without shared faith, evidence can be easily explained away -• A strict naturalist's inability to believe in a creation account parallels the believer's inability not to believe in one -• The idea that with God, anything is possible -• Critique of Ahaz's lack of faith and his refusal to try the patience of God -• Isaiah's prophecy of a sign from God: the birth of Emmanuel, a son born of the virgin Mary -• The concept of a virgin birth being impossible in the text -• The possibility of God creating something from nothing -• The idea that God can do anything in the physical world, citing examples such as creation and resurrection -• The role of faith in understanding God's sovereign rule -• The need for those who disbelieve to explain away the evidence supporting a virgin birth -• The birth of Jesus, the Messiah, is described in Matthew 1:18-23 -• Mary's pregnancy through the Holy Spirit and Joseph's initial desire to divorce her quietly -• An angel appears to Joseph in a dream, instructing him to take Mary as his wife and name their son Jesus -• The significance of Jesus' birth as fulfilling prophecy and indicating God is with us (Emmanuel) -• The conception and birth of Jesus through the Holy Spirit -• The significance of Jesus being called "God with us" (Emmanuel) -• The impossible nature of God becoming human in Christ -• The majesty and wonder of the Christmas miracle -• The choice to either dismiss or worship the true meaning of Christmas -• The impossibility of Christmas and how it is made possible by Emmanuel (God with us) -• Seeing the world in a new way due to faith, changing everything about the world -• God's presence and love being available to everyone regardless of circumstances or success -• Faith is necessary to see God's goodness and gifts -• Praying for eyes of faith to be shared during Christmas -• Eyes of faith looking to God -• Praying for a deeper understanding of the incarnation -• Repeating phrases such as "Glory to God in the highest" and "Peace to man on earth" -• Inviting listeners to come and adore Christ with wonder -• Sharing about the return of the Lord -• Discussing receiving God's blessing and going on mission -• Inviting prayers and connections for those present -• Recalling key Bible verses and hymns -• Repeat the sounding joy of Jesus -• No more sin and sorrow -• God's blessings extend far as the curse is found -• He rules the world with truth and grace -• Glories of His righteousness, love, and redemption -• Repeated expression of gratitude ("Thank you") \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Christmas Day, December 25, 2024_transcript.txt b/Christmas Day, December 25, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 5a09a8c4bf52652281d0903590004d8b8ce12b61..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Christmas Day, December 25, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1686 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.76] . -[30.00 --> 33.90] Jasmine -[33.90 --> 48.66] Jasmine -[48.66 --> 52.94] Jasmine -[52.94 --> 65.90] I'm dreaming tonight of a place I love -[65.90 --> 72.20] Even more than I usually do -[72.20 --> 82.92] And although I know it's a long road back -[82.92 --> 88.50] I promise you -[88.50 --> 99.00] I'll be home for Christmas -[99.00 --> 109.06] You can land on me -[112.92 --> 122.50] Please have snow and mistletoe -[122.50 --> 132.08] And presents around the tree -[132.08 --> 137.66] Christmas Eve -[137.66 --> 143.24] Will find me -[143.24 --> 155.34] Where the love light gleams -[155.34 --> 162.92] I'll be home for Christmas -[162.92 --> 172.50] And what if only in my dreams -[172.50 --> 182.08] I'll be home for Christmas -[182.08 --> 184.08] I'll be home for Christmas -[184.08 --> 189.08] You can plan on me -[189.08 --> 197.66] Please have snow and mistletoe -[197.66 --> 202.66] And presents around the tree -[202.66 --> 208.24] Christmas Eve -[208.24 --> 210.82] Will find me -[210.82 --> 218.82] Where the love light gleams -[218.82 --> 223.82] I'll be home for Christmas -[223.82 --> 231.40] If only in my dreams -[231.40 --> 247.98] Please have snow and mistletoe -[247.98 --> 251.56] And presents around the tree -[251.56 --> 255.56] And presents around the tree -[255.56 --> 257.56] And presents around the tree -[257.56 --> 260.56] Christmas Eve -[260.56 --> 264.56] Will find me -[264.56 --> 270.14] Where the love light gleams -[270.14 --> 274.14] Where the love light gleams -[274.14 --> 276.14] I'll be home for Christmas -[276.14 --> 278.72] I'll be home for Christmas -[278.72 --> 283.72] If only in my dreams -[283.72 --> 290.72] If only in my dreams -[290.72 --> 308.96] If only in my dreams -[320.72 --> 339.16] And now on -[339.16 --> 349.34] My baby, heaven sent you to me. -[349.34 --> 355.48] All the world's been praying. -[357.10 --> 362.34] Who will save? -[362.34 --> 392.32] But who am I that here tonight I hold the one who'll bring this light? -[392.34 --> 398.26] Hallelujah, we've been found. -[398.68 --> 405.84] A child is born to save us now, Jesus. -[407.10 --> 411.82] Hallelujah, light has come. -[412.24 --> 418.36] A Savior who will set us free. -[418.36 --> 426.28] The promise for those who believe. -[426.28 --> 446.28] Do you hear the angels sing for you, my baby? -[446.28 --> 460.28] Men and kings have come to bow to you. -[460.28 --> 474.62] But here in my arms, so close to me. -[474.62 --> 480.62] The Son of God. -[482.54 --> 488.12] Now all can see. -[488.12 --> 496.04] Hallelujah, we've been found. -[496.04 --> 503.96] A child is born to save us now, Jesus. -[504.96 --> 509.48] Hallelujah, light has come. -[509.96 --> 514.12] A Savior set us free. -[514.12 --> 520.12] So praise to God on high. -[521.08 --> 525.04] He has heard our cry. -[527.04 --> 531.64] So praise to God on high. -[531.64 --> 536.66] He has heard our cry. -[536.66 --> 539.58] He has heard our cry. -[543.32 --> 553.42] Hallelujah, we've been found. -[553.42 --> 555.42] Amen. -[583.42 --> 586.46] Set us free. -[587.00 --> 594.22] The promise for those who believe. -[602.22 --> 604.22] Amen. -[604.22 --> 605.22] Amen. -[609.22 --> 610.06] Good. -[611.68 --> 613.26] We'll wait for that to land. -[613.26 --> 614.18] Good morning. -[615.36 --> 616.60] Merry Christmas. -[617.80 --> 620.52] Welcome to church this morning. -[620.72 --> 622.14] A very special welcome. -[622.14 --> 625.92] If you are a guest with us, we are so glad that you are here. -[626.30 --> 630.50] As you can see, people are looking for places and spaces to sit. -[631.10 --> 633.80] And so there is a few empty seats up here, -[633.88 --> 636.50] although I think the Alchemists have put seat chairs down there. -[636.72 --> 638.96] But I want to encourage you, if you can, -[638.96 --> 643.18] maybe move to the middle of your row so that, -[643.42 --> 644.20] oh, the Alchemists are there. -[644.28 --> 644.96] Whose coat is that? -[646.56 --> 647.20] Oh, there. -[647.32 --> 647.76] There you go. -[648.34 --> 649.40] We're figuring it out. -[649.70 --> 650.78] If you can move to the middle, -[650.88 --> 654.34] that helps everybody come in and find a space together. -[654.34 --> 662.12] We are excited to share in this Christmas worship with you this morning. -[662.12 --> 666.82] Before we begin, just one reminder that on Saturday, -[667.10 --> 669.86] this coming Saturday at 1.15, -[670.22 --> 674.92] we have booked the ice sheet at Canlan Arena, -[675.80 --> 677.10] formerly Twin Rinks. -[677.10 --> 681.34] And so if you want to come and join us for a church family skate, -[681.42 --> 682.74] we would love to see you there. -[682.96 --> 684.84] They have some rentals there, -[684.98 --> 686.42] and so you can keep that in mind. -[686.52 --> 689.90] But if you would like to guarantee that you can get on the ice, -[690.16 --> 691.00] bring your own skates. -[691.16 --> 693.72] That will help facilitate that. -[694.22 --> 697.12] At about 2 o'clock until about 3 o'clock, -[697.22 --> 699.18] we have the room there booked as well, -[699.20 --> 703.06] so we can have some hot chocolate afterwards and hang out in that time. -[703.08 --> 704.44] If you have any questions about that, -[704.44 --> 707.68] there's a poster on the door on the way out, -[707.76 --> 710.70] and in the screen, the rolling announcements as well. -[710.80 --> 711.62] There are details there, -[711.70 --> 714.30] or you can grab me or Pastor Kevin or someone else -[714.30 --> 715.46] who looks like they know what they're doing, -[715.56 --> 716.34] and they'll answer you. -[717.72 --> 721.48] We're going to gather this morning in song and in prayer and in word -[721.48 --> 724.20] in the presence of our God. -[724.28 --> 726.56] And so I'm going to invite you, as you are able to stand, -[728.06 --> 730.00] we're going to receive God's greeting together. -[730.00 --> 733.74] So I invite you to take a posture of receipt -[733.74 --> 735.96] as God welcomes us into this place. -[736.44 --> 739.26] And following that, I'm just going to invite you to turn to those around you, -[739.40 --> 741.16] welcome them into worship. -[742.18 --> 744.62] After we have welcomed each other in worship, -[744.62 --> 746.84] I invite you just to take a seat for a moment, -[746.84 --> 749.44] and we will light the Christmas candle together. -[750.06 --> 752.78] Receive the greeting of our God this morning. -[752.78 --> 758.28] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[759.10 --> 762.60] The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[763.54 --> 768.58] The Lord turn his face toward you and give you his peace. -[769.66 --> 769.98] Amen. -[782.78 --> 783.78] Amen. -[788.40 --> 789.04] Amen. -[789.20 --> 789.56] Amen. -[790.18 --> 790.42] Amen. -[790.52 --> 791.34] Amen. -[791.36 --> 791.84] Amen. -[791.86 --> 792.10] Amen. -[792.10 --> 792.28] Amen. -[792.74 --> 792.80] Amen. -[792.90 --> 792.94] Amen. -[793.10 --> 794.02] Amen. -[794.22 --> 795.04] Amen. -[795.24 --> 795.48] Amen. -[795.50 --> 796.00] Amen. -[800.46 --> 800.66] Amen. -[802.80 --> 807.44] Amen. -[807.62 --> 809.54] Amen. -[809.54 --> 809.60] Amen. -[809.78 --> 810.82] Amen. -[810.82 --> 810.92] Amen. -[810.92 --> 811.00] Amen. -[811.00 --> 811.42] Amen. -[811.42 --> 811.92] Amen. -[811.92 --> 812.56] Amen. -[812.56 --> 832.16] Good morning, Church. -[833.10 --> 836.92] On Christmas Day, we celebrate the arrival of the promised Savior, -[837.72 --> 839.80] the culmination of our Advent waiting. -[839.80 --> 844.26] Grant that as we eagerly await the coming of your only Son, -[844.80 --> 848.92] we may be found ready like shiny lamps prepared for his arrival. -[850.32 --> 852.76] The light of Christ has come into the world, -[853.66 --> 858.30] dispelling the darkness of sin and bringing the gift of eternal life. -[859.48 --> 861.74] Today we celebrate the joy of Christ's birth, -[862.34 --> 865.78] knowing that in him God's promises are fulfilled. -[866.18 --> 869.42] Let us join with all creation in exultant praise, -[869.80 --> 871.88] for our Savior is born today. -[871.88 --> 871.94] Amen. -[871.94 --> 896.42] Please join us in singing, O come all ye faithful. -[896.92 --> 898.00] Please stand with us. -[898.00 --> 906.00] O come all ye faithful, -[906.00 --> 913.08] joyful and triumph, -[913.08 --> 921.08] O come all ye faithful, -[921.08 --> 926.08] joyful and triumph, -[926.08 --> 935.08] O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem. -[935.08 --> 941.08] come and behold him, -[941.08 --> 945.08] for the King of angels, -[945.08 --> 949.08] O come let us adore him, -[949.08 --> 953.08] O come let us adore him, -[953.08 --> 955.08] O come let us adore him, -[955.08 --> 959.08] O come let us adore him, -[959.08 --> 961.08] word� colorful and proclaim, -[961.08 --> 965.08] O come let us reunion bow. -[965.08 --> 967.08] Shoot the tom. -[967.08 --> 969.08] The exactly Yeshua Tyno Debbie -[969.08 --> 969.96] printed us of Jesus, -[969.96 --> 971.08] irish, -[971.08 --> 971.92] Yang of the F metropolitan -[971.92 --> 973.08] to the body sin -[973.08 --> 975.10] always have been -[975.10 --> 976.08] holy Adam també ben查 lets her -[976.12 --> 979.90] Rodman thành -[979.90 --> 986.46] glory to God -[986.46 --> 991.00] glory in the highest -[991.00 --> 995.28] O come let us adore him -[995.28 --> 999.54] O come let us adore him -[999.54 --> 1004.14] O come let us adore him -[1004.14 --> 1008.58] in Christ the Lord -[1008.58 --> 1015.30] May Lord be briefly -[1015.30 --> 1019.78] Lord this happy morning -[1019.78 --> 1023.42] Jesus to thee -[1023.42 --> 1027.30] be all glory -[1027.30 --> 1033.10] Word of the Father -[1033.10 --> 1036.94] now in flesh I'll be -[1036.94 --> 1041.66] O come let us adore him -[1041.66 --> 1045.66] O come let us adore him -[1045.66 --> 1049.66] O come let us adore him -[1049.66 --> 1055.66] in Christ the Lord -[1055.66 --> 1073.72] angels from the realms of glory -[1073.72 --> 1078.44] wing your flight o'er all the earth -[1078.44 --> 1082.44] ye who sang creation story -[1082.44 --> 1086.44] now proclaim Messiah's birth -[1086.44 --> 1088.16] come and worship -[1088.16 --> 1091.16] come and worship -[1091.16 --> 1095.88] worship Christ the new born King -[1095.88 --> 1100.60] come and worship -[1100.60 --> 1104.60] come and worship -[1104.60 --> 1108.60] come and worship -[1108.60 --> 1121.32] loved Christ the new born King -[1121.32 --> 1127.62] Come and worship, worship Christ the newborn King. -[1131.18 --> 1145.88] Emmanuel, Emmanuel, you are the God who saves us, worthy of all our praise and praise. -[1145.88 --> 1157.76] Emmanuel, Emmanuel, come and your way among us. -[1157.76 --> 1161.28] We welcome you here, Lord Jesus. -[1162.20 --> 1165.88] Come and your way among us. -[1166.26 --> 1169.42] We welcome you here, Lord Jesus. -[1169.42 --> 1171.42] Amen. -[1199.42 --> 1201.42] Amen. -[1229.42 --> 1231.42] Amen. -[1259.42 --> 1261.42] Amen. -[1264.86 --> 1268.88] Come and your way among us. -[1269.22 --> 1273.92] We welcome you here, Lord Jesus. -[1273.92 --> 1277.42] Emmanuel, Emmanuel. -[1277.42 --> 1291.42] Emmanuel, Emmanuel, Emmanuel, Emmanuel. -[1293.92 --> 1295.30] You may have a seat. -[1307.42 --> 1315.96] God with us, fragile, defenseless, entrusted to our care. -[1316.92 --> 1322.44] The breath of life drew his first breath, heaven's earthly air. -[1323.60 --> 1329.28] Creator becomes creation, God's word in human form. -[1329.54 --> 1334.84] The breath of life in human flesh, God with us. -[1334.84 --> 1337.34] He is born. -[1338.48 --> 1346.76] In the dark, a shining light, a solitary voice announcing his coming to blind and deaf. -[1347.86 --> 1350.10] A precious few rejoiced. -[1351.00 --> 1359.54] So, the royal retinue ripped through heaven's seams, proclaiming glory, shouting praise. -[1360.38 --> 1363.58] This one should be esteemed. -[1363.58 --> 1367.02] Creator become creation. -[1367.86 --> 1370.72] God's word in human form. -[1371.64 --> 1373.92] The breath of life in human flesh. -[1375.00 --> 1376.52] God with us. -[1377.50 --> 1378.92] He is born. -[1380.12 --> 1384.50] Years later, in our arrogance, we broke that baby's trust. -[1385.50 --> 1387.40] Sin pierced his flesh. -[1387.40 --> 1392.68] The curtain tore and blew in breath's last gust. -[1393.74 --> 1398.36] Fragile, defenseless, entrusted to his care. -[1398.36 --> 1404.92] The breath of life expelled to make us heaven's earthly heirs. -[1404.92 --> 1406.92] Creator become creation. -[1406.92 --> 1408.80] Creator become creation. -[1409.60 --> 1411.66] God's word in human form. -[1412.50 --> 1415.04] The breath of life returned to flesh. -[1416.14 --> 1417.22] God with us. -[1417.94 --> 1419.96] We are reborn. -[1419.96 --> 1427.76] God with us as we sing infant holy, infant lowly. -[1427.76 --> 1428.76] Let mới be даже. -[1428.76 --> 1429.76] Ope. -[1429.76 --> 1430.22] Amen. -[1432.64 --> 1435.26] Reason for heaven. -[1435.26 --> 1437.36] God with us. -[1437.44 --> 1438.08] Man above. -[1438.46 --> 1439.32] Someone above. -[1439.32 --> 1439.82] Amen. -[1440.10 --> 1440.34] Nummer. -[1440.42 --> 1441.46] Someone above. -[1441.92 --> 1442.66] Wasidan fame. -[1443.10 --> 1443.80] アーモepsั� rends it. -[1443.80 --> 1444.54] Son above. -[1445.02 --> 1445.66] God with us. -[1445.68 --> 1446.22] Ope. -[1446.54 --> 1447.22] 때도egt聾. -[1447.22 --> 1447.60] S comun�y. -[1447.64 --> 1448.60] To be och education in human form. -[1448.80 --> 1449.16] mondy. -[1449.32 --> 1449.70] memorizedemente。 -[1449.98 --> 1450.68] Person without him. -[1450.68 --> 1452.00] prechen行了 governance home. -[1452.00 --> 1453.04] Bلة acosts outは lens discussion alkaline. -[1453.04 --> 1454.02] I agree with guidance. -[1454.02 --> 1455.02] Bagcause From the wheel. -[1455.02 --> 1485.00] . . . -[1485.00 --> 1514.98] . . . -[1515.00 --> 1517.00] . . . -[1545.00 --> 1547.00] . . . -[1547.00 --> 1549.00] . . . -[1549.00 --> 1551.00] . . . -[1551.00 --> 1553.00] . . . -[1553.00 --> 1555.00] . . . -[1555.00 --> 1569.00] was born for you christ -[1569.00 --> 1583.00] is -[1585.00 --> 1594.28] our next song is a christmas tradition in our church reflective of for some of us our dutch -[1594.28 --> 1602.60] heritage the song is glory to god and we will have it on the screen in the english words but -[1602.60 --> 1613.00] if you'd love to sing it in dutch please join us -[1615.00 --> 1624.28] glory to god -[1624.28 --> 1630.28] glory to God -[1630.28 --> 1632.28] in the highest -[1632.28 --> 1634.28] in the highest -[1634.28 --> 1638.28] in the highest -[1638.28 --> 1640.28] in the highest -[1640.28 --> 1646.28] please be on earth -[1646.28 --> 1650.28] please be on earth -[1650.28 --> 1652.28] to the people -[1652.28 --> 1654.28] whom God -[1654.28 --> 1660.28] delights in -[1660.28 --> 1664.28] glory to God -[1664.28 --> 1668.28] in the highest -[1668.28 --> 1672.28] glory to God -[1672.28 --> 1676.28] in the highest -[1676.28 --> 1682.28] please be on earth -[1682.28 --> 1686.28] please be on earth -[1686.28 --> 1690.28] please be on earth -[1690.28 --> 1692.28] please be on earth -[1692.28 --> 1696.28] please be on earth -[1696.28 --> 1704.92] To the peace of, to the peace of, who God delights in. -[1704.92 --> 1714.44] To the peace of, who God delights in, who God delights in. -[1714.44 --> 1731.58] Glory to God, glory to God, in the highest, in the highest, in the highest. -[1731.58 --> 1751.66] Praise the honor, praise the honor, to the peace of, who God delights in. -[1751.66 --> 1755.86] Amen. -[1757.86 --> 1761.42] Amen. -[1761.58 --> 1762.58] Amen. -[1762.58 --> 1764.58] Amen. -[1779.40 --> 1782.58] Good morning and Merry Christmas to everybody. -[1782.72 --> 1783.94] Merry Christmas from the Deacons. -[1784.08 --> 1791.06] This morning we are having our offering and it will be for the budget as well as for benevolence. -[1791.06 --> 1797.86] And we thank this congregation for the generous donations that have been given throughout this year. -[1798.42 --> 1803.06] We pray that, we know that God has blessed us and we pray that that will continue. -[1803.66 --> 1805.50] Please give as God has given to you. -[1805.50 --> 1813.68] all fine with us and we pray that the Lord has done and must be no means of blessing God. -[1813.68 --> 1817.64] We pray that Godは破綻. -[1817.64 --> 1835.72] Over the skies of Bethlehem appeared a star -[1835.72 --> 1842.24] While angels sent to holy shepherds -[1842.24 --> 1850.00] Realizement seeking truth traveled from afar -[1850.00 --> 1856.14] Hoping to find the child from heaven -[1856.14 --> 1861.28] Following on at ease -[1861.28 --> 1868.88] They bow before the humble Prince of Peace -[1868.88 --> 1874.88] We bring an offering of worship to our King -[1874.88 --> 1881.88] No one on earth deserves the praises that we sing -[1882.44 --> 1888.88] Jesus, may you receive the honor that you're due -[1889.44 --> 1896.88] O Lord, we bring an offering to you -[1898.88 --> 1916.64] The sun cannot compare to the glory of your love -[1916.64 --> 1921.88] There is no shadow in your presence -[1921.88 --> 1929.88] No more to let we dare to stand before your throne -[1929.88 --> 1935.88] We know you're the Holy One of Heaven -[1935.88 --> 1941.88] It's only by your blood -[1941.88 --> 1945.88] And it's only through your mercy -[1945.88 --> 1949.88] Lord, I come -[1949.88 --> 1955.88] I bring an offering of worship to my King -[1955.88 --> 1961.88] No one on earth deserves the praises that I sing -[1961.88 --> 1969.88] Jesus, may you receive the honor that you're due -[1969.88 --> 1975.88] O Lord, I bring an offering to you -[1975.88 --> 1976.88] O Lord, I bring an offering to you -[1976.88 --> 1981.88] I bring an offering of worship to my King -[1981.88 --> 1987.88] No one on earth deserves the praises that I sing -[1987.88 --> 1997.88] Jesus, may you receive the honor that you're due -[1997.88 --> 2001.88] O Lord, I bring an offering to you -[2001.88 --> 2005.88] O Lord, I bring an offering to you -[2005.88 --> 2012.88] O Lord, I bring an offering to you -[2012.88 --> 2030.88] O Lord, I bring an offering to you -[2030.88 --> 2046.56] I would love to invite all the kids to come forward if you are willing. -[2046.92 --> 2048.44] Come meet me up here just for a minute. -[2049.04 --> 2050.98] We'll have a quick chat here for a second. -[2050.98 --> 2055.44] On this Christmas day, here comes a bunch. -[2060.88 --> 2070.08] Merry Christmas, everyone. -[2070.08 --> 2073.18] Oh, you know what? -[2073.22 --> 2075.94] You guys are way louder when I have a dog puppet up here. -[2077.02 --> 2078.42] Merry Christmas, everyone. -[2079.10 --> 2080.18] Merry Christmas. -[2080.70 --> 2082.38] Now, I have a quick question for you all. -[2084.56 --> 2086.96] Did any of you open any presents this morning? -[2087.72 --> 2087.94] Yeah? -[2088.14 --> 2089.80] How many of you opened presents already? -[2089.80 --> 2092.56] How many of you are going to open presents soon? -[2093.60 --> 2095.70] Now, why do we open presents on Christmas? -[2096.20 --> 2099.42] That's a normal thing, but why do we do that? -[2109.78 --> 2110.18] Yeah? -[2111.58 --> 2113.02] Oh, we're going to get a whole rundown. -[2114.24 --> 2115.18] Oh, wow. -[2115.40 --> 2116.18] That's exciting. -[2117.60 --> 2118.16] I know. -[2118.16 --> 2120.22] Oh, so some people open at Christmas, presents Christmas Eve. -[2120.28 --> 2121.16] Some open Christmas Day. -[2121.36 --> 2122.52] Why do we open them at all? -[2124.28 --> 2126.32] Because, oh, you are so good, Haley. -[2126.50 --> 2131.02] We open presents because Christmas is the day that we got the gift of Jesus. -[2131.66 --> 2133.82] Do you remember some of you were in children's worship time on Sunday, -[2133.88 --> 2136.78] and we talked about how Jesus is our forever king. -[2137.26 --> 2138.20] Do you know what Jesus did? -[2139.20 --> 2140.34] Jesus came. -[2140.46 --> 2142.66] He was already our king before he was born. -[2142.66 --> 2147.22] He came down from a throne in heaven, the Bible says, to become a baby. -[2147.94 --> 2148.72] Isn't that something? -[2148.80 --> 2150.92] And he did that to save us all from our sins. -[2151.12 --> 2155.40] So he was a king, and then he came down to earth to be a baby king. -[2155.96 --> 2160.64] And then he died on the cross and rose again and went back to heaven to continue to be our king. -[2160.94 --> 2163.04] So he's not just our forever king going forward. -[2163.14 --> 2164.44] He was our forever king forever. -[2164.44 --> 2168.50] And then he came, and he became a baby for us. -[2168.54 --> 2169.22] Isn't that something? -[2169.98 --> 2170.54] Isn't that something? -[2170.64 --> 2175.32] So that's what we're celebrating today, and that's what we're going to hear Pastor Chris talk about in his message. -[2175.40 --> 2178.48] So I'm going to pray, and then today we're going to sit back with our parents, -[2178.56 --> 2182.30] and we're going to listen to Pastor Chris talk about the meaning of Christmas for us today, okay? -[2182.48 --> 2186.50] If you didn't, there are some activities at the children's worship time booth that you can do. -[2186.70 --> 2188.32] I think there's some stickers and stuff like that. -[2188.38 --> 2191.40] So you can go grab those as well after we pray if you want, okay? -[2191.78 --> 2192.30] Let me pray. -[2192.30 --> 2194.56] Dear God, thank you so much for this day. -[2194.66 --> 2199.68] Thank you that we could be here today on Christmas Day, so excited to celebrate your birth, God. -[2199.72 --> 2203.22] And we just, we pray that you'll help us remember that you are our forever king, -[2203.28 --> 2206.30] that you came down from the throne of heaven to become a baby for us, -[2206.78 --> 2212.70] to eventually grow up to a man, to die on the cross, and to rise again for all of our sins. -[2212.80 --> 2216.42] And God, may we remember that this is the day that you are the greatest gift that we could receive. -[2216.76 --> 2217.78] We pray this in your name. -[2218.44 --> 2218.80] Amen. -[2218.80 --> 2219.00] Amen. -[2219.66 --> 2220.08] All right. -[2220.74 --> 2221.28] You know what? -[2221.38 --> 2221.80] Let's do it. -[2221.80 --> 2223.48] We do this at our church all the time. -[2223.56 --> 2224.14] Let's do it anyways. -[2224.20 --> 2225.78] We're not going anywhere, but let's all stand up. -[2225.86 --> 2229.06] We're going to do the blessing because there's some guests here that I think need to be blessed by the kids. -[2229.54 --> 2230.78] So we're going to stand here. -[2230.86 --> 2233.08] We're going to put our hands like this, and I'm going to count to three, -[2233.14 --> 2235.64] and we're going to say together, the Lord be with you, okay? -[2235.74 --> 2236.22] Are you ready? -[2236.52 --> 2237.64] We're going to say this to the church. -[2237.92 --> 2239.10] One, two, three. -[2239.48 --> 2241.46] The Lord be with you. -[2242.18 --> 2243.50] All right. -[2243.50 --> 2244.78] You can go back to your parents' seats. -[2244.78 --> 2246.38] All right. -[2251.80 --> 2264.28] Good morning. -[2264.82 --> 2265.36] Good morning. -[2265.48 --> 2266.18] My name is Dave. -[2267.14 --> 2271.54] I am an elder at this church, and I get to lead you in our church family prayer. -[2271.54 --> 2272.96] Will you pray with me? -[2272.96 --> 2281.70] Father, it is with great joy that we gather on this Christmas day. -[2282.10 --> 2285.72] It is a time that we join with Christians of all times and of all ages, -[2285.96 --> 2288.40] and we celebrate the profound importance of this day, -[2288.90 --> 2292.96] that Jesus chose to take on human form, taking on the very nature of a servant. -[2292.96 --> 2298.50] It is a marvelous thought that the word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. -[2299.18 --> 2301.38] Like the shepherds, we hear the message from the angels. -[2301.74 --> 2304.70] I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. -[2305.22 --> 2307.76] Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you. -[2308.12 --> 2309.36] He is Christ the Lord. -[2310.26 --> 2313.26] And because of this good news, we sing with the angels, -[2313.84 --> 2318.22] glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests. -[2318.22 --> 2323.68] Father, even with the joy of Christmas, we need to confess that we are sinful people. -[2324.48 --> 2328.84] It is because of human sin and human rebellion that we need to be reconciled to you, -[2329.18 --> 2330.94] and that Jesus needed to come down, -[2331.50 --> 2336.74] and that the child in the manger needed to grow, live a humble life, and die on a cross. -[2337.66 --> 2342.82] We confess that we get caught up in the many distractions and the excess of this season. -[2343.54 --> 2345.56] Help us to remember the real purpose of Christmas, -[2345.56 --> 2349.36] to celebrate the very humble beginnings of our faith in a stable. -[2350.66 --> 2353.64] Father, we come to you because we have many reasons to be thankful. -[2354.22 --> 2358.06] We thank you for the joy and celebration that we felt in this time of Advent. -[2358.72 --> 2362.08] We thank you for this church family and everyone who has gathered here. -[2362.86 --> 2364.82] We thank you for the leadership of this church, -[2365.10 --> 2368.54] with Pastor Chris, Pastor Kevin, and Josh. -[2368.84 --> 2370.36] We thank you for members of the council. -[2370.36 --> 2376.70] We pray for wisdom for them, that they may provide good leadership and decisions for us. -[2377.22 --> 2379.60] We thank you for the many ministries of this church, -[2379.98 --> 2384.66] the nursery, children's worship time, gems, cadets, youth, young adults, -[2384.98 --> 2388.58] the Mexico team, coffee break, care groups, seniors ministry. -[2389.14 --> 2391.12] We ask that you bless the work that they do, -[2391.36 --> 2395.42] that they may meet the spiritual and physical needs that we see around us. -[2395.42 --> 2401.70] Father, as a church community, we think of the joys and needs that we have as a Christian community. -[2402.24 --> 2405.54] We pray for those who use this time to travel, to be with extended family. -[2406.02 --> 2408.42] We pray for safe travels and a meaningful time together. -[2409.90 --> 2412.12] Father, in the midst of all the joy and celebration, -[2412.38 --> 2414.70] we realize that this may be a time that is difficult. -[2415.36 --> 2417.80] We pray for those who experience hardship or loneliness, -[2418.28 --> 2420.38] and for those who grieve the loss of a loved one. -[2420.80 --> 2424.28] We pray that they may feel your comfort, your peace, and your presence. -[2424.28 --> 2428.22] And we pray that all of us may be a source of light and compassion. -[2429.10 --> 2432.74] We pray for Elise Wagenau's father, Doug, as he continues his health struggles -[2432.74 --> 2434.56] and the news of a tumor on his spine. -[2435.08 --> 2438.50] We pray for patience and strength as the family takes this journey together. -[2439.16 --> 2443.04] We pray for Amanda Hogan's sister and Klaus Tessamacher's daughter, Tanya, -[2443.58 --> 2446.62] who is experiencing stage 4 breast cancer that has spread. -[2447.24 --> 2449.20] We pray for her and her family, -[2449.54 --> 2453.40] that they may feel your comfort, peace, healing, and hope. -[2453.40 --> 2460.18] And Father, we pray for Pastor Chris as he leads us again in the study of our word -[2460.18 --> 2462.62] as revealed to the prophet Isaiah. -[2463.26 --> 2467.94] We thank you that, unlike Isaiah, we don't have to wait for the coming of the Messiah -[2467.94 --> 2473.62] because he has already come, the word made flesh, Emmanuel, God with us. -[2474.40 --> 2477.28] May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God -[2477.28 --> 2480.28] and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all. -[2481.04 --> 2481.30] Amen. -[2481.30 --> 2481.38] Amen. -[2483.40 --> 2513.36] As we begin this morning here in a reflection on God's word on Christmas Day, -[2513.36 --> 2516.50] I just want to take a moment right at the outset -[2516.50 --> 2519.94] and acknowledge something with you this morning. -[2520.02 --> 2523.84] Something strange, weird, and mysterious. -[2523.84 --> 2529.34] Because when you get right down to it, Christmas is weird. -[2530.58 --> 2531.64] Christmas is strange. -[2532.70 --> 2537.54] Honestly, pull back all the 21st century dressings, -[2537.54 --> 2539.68] the music and the malls and the parties, -[2539.68 --> 2542.20] the lights and the turkey dinners. -[2542.20 --> 2545.52] Most of the time, good things, depending on who's cooking. -[2546.32 --> 2548.06] Pull all of that back, right? -[2548.14 --> 2551.58] Pull the history of Christian cultural influence. -[2552.08 --> 2557.74] Pull back pop Christmas music and music specials, Christmas specials. -[2558.00 --> 2560.96] Pull back the sleigh bells and the Christmas trees. -[2560.96 --> 2564.10] Look behind that curtain of cultural Christmas. -[2564.10 --> 2568.10] And Christmas should be impossible. -[2568.10 --> 2568.66] Impossible. -[2568.66 --> 2577.70] Now, very aware of the fact that enough of you here this morning -[2577.70 --> 2582.74] have grown up in the church or are at least church adjacent. -[2582.74 --> 2587.56] And what I mean by that is that we have family or friends -[2587.56 --> 2590.06] who invited us to come here this morning -[2590.06 --> 2591.98] and we came because we love them -[2591.98 --> 2596.30] or because it was a condition for opening presents later on in the day -[2596.30 --> 2598.64] or for eating Christmas dinner, and so we're here. -[2600.32 --> 2604.94] Most of us here this morning have been around long enough -[2604.94 --> 2608.48] for this truth that Christmas is strange -[2608.48 --> 2611.12] is easy to miss. -[2612.66 --> 2617.22] It's easy to miss the impossible nature of this day. -[2617.52 --> 2619.68] We can become numb to the miracle -[2619.68 --> 2624.02] or we can take for granted the majesty of this mystery. -[2625.82 --> 2631.94] Or maybe you're not even sure what you believe about this Jesus guy, -[2632.12 --> 2635.24] but you still like Christmas, right? -[2635.24 --> 2639.02] For so many people today, Christmas has become a reason -[2639.02 --> 2640.76] to take a few days off of work, -[2641.08 --> 2644.58] to give a couple presents, maybe even to give one or two. -[2645.02 --> 2648.14] Christmas has become a time where you can go up the mountains -[2648.14 --> 2649.78] to ski or snowboard, -[2649.86 --> 2653.28] or maybe you're lucky enough to go off to Mexico or to Hawaii. -[2654.92 --> 2658.12] Christmas, for so many, is about family traditions, -[2658.34 --> 2660.62] about peppermint lattes and eggnog. -[2660.98 --> 2663.06] It's about palm dauphine if you're French -[2663.06 --> 2665.48] or malva pudding if you're from South Africa -[2665.48 --> 2667.36] or panettone if you're Italian -[2667.36 --> 2670.08] or peppernotin if you're Dutch. -[2671.56 --> 2673.78] For so many of us, Christmas isn't spiritual, -[2674.06 --> 2674.72] it's physical. -[2675.48 --> 2677.60] It's about good food and good rest. -[2679.78 --> 2682.92] Now, I suspect that if you're here this morning, -[2683.58 --> 2688.42] you're somewhere in the middle of this range of possibilities. -[2688.42 --> 2688.98] Right? -[2690.50 --> 2692.74] Christmas comes, and we love it, -[2693.32 --> 2696.06] but life goes on to the next thing. -[2697.42 --> 2698.24] All right, after today, -[2698.34 --> 2701.06] we're pretty quickly counting down to New Year's Eve parties, -[2701.46 --> 2704.20] and then it's back to school or back to work, -[2704.92 --> 2707.64] back to life as usual. -[2708.60 --> 2710.64] Life as it was a few weeks ago -[2710.64 --> 2712.86] and as it will be a few weeks from now. -[2712.86 --> 2716.48] Christmas, the impossibility of it all, -[2716.88 --> 2719.66] can easily be missed. -[2721.60 --> 2724.34] And it's easy to miss in the midst of all that. -[2726.70 --> 2730.46] We haven't even talked about the very real circumstances -[2730.46 --> 2732.34] that some of you are in, right? -[2732.36 --> 2733.54] Of disease and death. -[2734.56 --> 2736.00] Of worry and work. -[2736.94 --> 2738.76] Of what if and how come. -[2738.76 --> 2740.76] And in the midst of all of that, -[2740.88 --> 2743.48] this easily just becomes another season, -[2743.66 --> 2744.68] another day, another week -[2744.68 --> 2746.18] that we just need to get through. -[2749.64 --> 2751.00] And if you're anywhere -[2751.00 --> 2755.32] in those ranges of possibilities this morning, -[2755.90 --> 2758.58] I want to take just a few minutes of our time -[2758.58 --> 2763.54] and stoke the marvel of Christmas Day. -[2764.78 --> 2766.42] All right, let's pause for a moment -[2766.42 --> 2769.22] and to gander at the impossible, -[2770.00 --> 2774.08] to lift the veil and to peer into the mystery. -[2775.34 --> 2777.90] Now to do that, let me set the stage for you this morning. -[2778.70 --> 2781.04] Whether or not you've been with us throughout Advent, -[2781.54 --> 2783.64] that's the season leading up to Christmas, -[2784.20 --> 2787.02] it won't matter as I'll give you the context here. -[2787.82 --> 2791.10] We have been looking at the book of Isaiah, -[2791.30 --> 2792.84] waiting with Isaiah. -[2792.84 --> 2793.24] Isaiah. -[2793.92 --> 2798.86] Now Isaiah is a prophet in the Jewish tradition -[2798.86 --> 2800.94] to the people of Judah -[2800.94 --> 2804.86] in the 8th century before Christ. -[2805.78 --> 2808.32] He speaks the word of God to kings -[2808.32 --> 2809.78] who have forgotten God. -[2810.42 --> 2813.52] He speaks of the expectation of the Messiah, -[2813.94 --> 2815.34] which means the anointed one, -[2815.44 --> 2816.88] the true king, right? -[2816.92 --> 2819.14] He brings a word from God to people -[2819.14 --> 2821.88] as a division reigns in the land, -[2821.88 --> 2823.72] as exile approaches, -[2823.72 --> 2826.50] and as two major nation states -[2826.50 --> 2829.34] loom large over Israel and Judah, -[2829.48 --> 2832.72] the empire of Assyria and eventually Babylon. -[2833.78 --> 2835.66] And where I want us to look this morning -[2835.66 --> 2838.64] with Isaiah is in Isaiah 7. -[2839.70 --> 2841.68] And we're going to jump into the story -[2841.68 --> 2844.04] as King Ahaz, -[2844.36 --> 2845.98] who's the king of Judah, -[2845.98 --> 2847.50] has a choice to make. -[2848.72 --> 2850.30] The background to this story -[2850.30 --> 2852.18] is recorded for us in the Bible -[2852.18 --> 2853.92] in 2 Kings 16. -[2855.18 --> 2858.00] Northern Israel and Aram -[2858.00 --> 2861.80] are threatening Judah and King Ahaz. -[2862.34 --> 2864.60] They both want to pull Ahaz, -[2865.00 --> 2866.04] the king of Judah, -[2866.20 --> 2867.60] into an alliance -[2867.60 --> 2870.90] because of the nearing and looming threat -[2870.90 --> 2872.32] of the Assyrian Empire. -[2872.32 --> 2875.46] Short of pulling him into an alliance, -[2876.00 --> 2877.98] they could also topple the kingdom -[2877.98 --> 2880.26] and annex it back. -[2881.52 --> 2884.14] Now Ahaz instead decides -[2884.14 --> 2885.52] he's going to approach -[2885.52 --> 2888.12] the king of the Assyrian Empire -[2888.12 --> 2889.66] and make a deal with him. -[2890.90 --> 2893.28] Now, read between the lines -[2893.28 --> 2894.36] in this story. -[2895.52 --> 2895.64] Right? -[2895.78 --> 2896.52] Simply put, -[2896.92 --> 2899.40] Ahaz has a choice to make, -[2899.40 --> 2901.36] and that choice isn't between -[2901.36 --> 2903.64] Assyria on the one hand -[2903.64 --> 2905.88] or Israel and Aram on the other. -[2906.14 --> 2908.70] It's a choice between trusting God -[2908.70 --> 2910.10] or not. -[2912.26 --> 2913.70] And going to Assyria -[2913.70 --> 2915.04] and making a deal with them, -[2915.14 --> 2917.32] he took matters into his own hands -[2917.32 --> 2920.18] and he ends up picking sides -[2920.18 --> 2921.94] with what becomes an even greater threat -[2921.94 --> 2923.06] to their destruction. -[2924.52 --> 2925.64] Here's the problem -[2925.64 --> 2926.92] that we step into. -[2926.92 --> 2931.44] Ahaz is letting his perspective -[2931.44 --> 2934.36] dictate reality. -[2935.80 --> 2937.66] Ahaz is letting his perspective -[2937.66 --> 2938.98] dictate reality. -[2939.14 --> 2940.54] And from his point of view, -[2941.02 --> 2943.22] the northern Israel and Aram -[2943.22 --> 2944.84] are the major threat. -[2945.70 --> 2947.18] But from God's point of view, -[2947.48 --> 2948.22] those are nothing. -[2948.64 --> 2949.46] It's not them. -[2949.60 --> 2950.70] It's actually him. -[2950.92 --> 2952.46] It's his heart. -[2953.82 --> 2956.86] Ahaz missed the deeper reality -[2956.86 --> 2958.48] of what was going on. -[2959.56 --> 2960.68] Does that sound familiar? -[2963.16 --> 2964.36] John Oswalt, -[2964.48 --> 2966.30] who is a Bible scholar, -[2967.04 --> 2968.62] is part of the translation team -[2968.62 --> 2970.24] for the Bible version -[2970.24 --> 2972.20] that we read here at Emmanuel. -[2972.88 --> 2973.76] He writes, -[2974.84 --> 2975.42] he says, -[2975.54 --> 2977.10] we are always in danger -[2977.10 --> 2978.64] of paying too much attention -[2978.64 --> 2979.64] to the passing -[2979.64 --> 2981.96] and paying too little attention -[2981.96 --> 2983.52] to the significant. -[2987.10 --> 2988.42] Paying too much attention -[2988.42 --> 2989.20] to the passing -[2989.20 --> 2991.28] and paying too little attention -[2991.28 --> 2992.92] to the significant. -[2994.38 --> 2996.52] If all you ever focus on -[2996.52 --> 2998.74] is that thing right in front of you, -[2998.74 --> 3001.18] you might miss the important thing -[3001.18 --> 3002.74] going on around you. -[3005.22 --> 3006.08] Ahaz's choice -[3006.08 --> 3007.64] between trusting God -[3007.64 --> 3009.56] or trusting himself -[3009.56 --> 3011.74] has impacts down the line -[3011.74 --> 3012.52] for his life -[3012.52 --> 3013.64] and for his rule. -[3014.40 --> 3015.98] And unless he gets to a point -[3015.98 --> 3016.94] where he can trust -[3016.94 --> 3018.20] in a sovereign God -[3018.20 --> 3019.06] who is good, -[3019.38 --> 3021.16] unless he can give himself up -[3021.16 --> 3022.26] to God's rule -[3022.26 --> 3023.42] and reign in his life, -[3023.86 --> 3024.92] he will continue -[3024.92 --> 3026.10] to be stuck -[3026.10 --> 3027.36] in this loop -[3027.36 --> 3028.26] of panic, -[3028.72 --> 3029.08] fear, -[3029.38 --> 3029.90] poor decision, -[3030.28 --> 3030.72] consequence. -[3031.42 --> 3031.92] Panic, -[3032.28 --> 3032.60] fear, -[3032.94 --> 3033.40] poor decision, -[3033.72 --> 3034.14] consequence. -[3034.14 --> 3039.06] It's a loop, -[3039.12 --> 3039.76] I can keep going. -[3042.68 --> 3043.02] Right? -[3043.06 --> 3044.38] It's only entrusting -[3044.38 --> 3046.32] in the real present -[3046.32 --> 3048.26] and really present -[3048.26 --> 3049.90] ultimate truthfulness -[3049.90 --> 3051.26] and ultimate truth -[3051.26 --> 3052.28] of God. -[3052.52 --> 3054.42] Is there any real security -[3054.42 --> 3055.66] for him -[3055.66 --> 3057.46] in this present life? -[3057.62 --> 3059.66] The only trusting in God -[3059.66 --> 3061.14] breaks that loop. -[3062.60 --> 3063.80] And so Isaiah comes -[3063.80 --> 3066.18] and issues a challenge -[3066.18 --> 3067.14] to Ahaz. -[3067.52 --> 3068.40] He comes -[3068.40 --> 3069.02] and he says -[3069.02 --> 3070.06] to ask God -[3070.06 --> 3070.82] for a sign. -[3070.94 --> 3072.16] Let's look at Isaiah 10 -[3072.16 --> 3073.28] together. -[3075.44 --> 3076.00] Again, -[3076.20 --> 3077.24] the Lord spoke -[3077.24 --> 3078.22] to Ahaz. -[3080.60 --> 3081.74] Ask the Lord -[3081.74 --> 3082.28] your God -[3082.28 --> 3083.02] for a sign, -[3083.66 --> 3085.32] whether in the deepest depths -[3085.32 --> 3087.38] or in the highest heights. -[3088.80 --> 3090.26] Ask him for anything -[3090.26 --> 3091.96] is what Isaiah is saying. -[3092.10 --> 3093.08] Ask for a sign -[3093.08 --> 3093.90] to prove -[3093.90 --> 3095.24] that your decision -[3095.24 --> 3096.64] was a good one. -[3097.96 --> 3098.84] But Ahaz -[3098.84 --> 3099.66] doesn't want -[3099.66 --> 3100.40] to be found out. -[3101.74 --> 3102.26] Or, -[3102.46 --> 3103.84] maybe at this point, -[3104.40 --> 3105.22] he's choosing -[3105.22 --> 3107.08] willful ignorance. -[3108.30 --> 3108.88] Do you know -[3108.88 --> 3109.54] what I mean by that? -[3110.54 --> 3110.80] Right? -[3110.88 --> 3112.38] He's committed himself -[3112.38 --> 3113.24] to this course -[3113.24 --> 3113.90] of action -[3113.90 --> 3115.14] and he refuses -[3115.14 --> 3116.30] to be dissuaded -[3116.30 --> 3117.64] because that would mean -[3117.64 --> 3118.80] admitting a mistake -[3118.80 --> 3119.62] or admitting -[3119.62 --> 3120.58] that he did something -[3120.58 --> 3121.20] wrong -[3121.20 --> 3122.34] or said something wrong. -[3122.52 --> 3122.78] Right? -[3122.82 --> 3123.60] You've never done that. -[3124.34 --> 3125.26] You've never stuck -[3125.26 --> 3126.10] to a story -[3126.10 --> 3127.06] because you've already -[3127.06 --> 3128.44] argued for 10 minutes straight -[3128.44 --> 3129.14] even though -[3129.14 --> 3129.96] eight minutes ago -[3129.96 --> 3130.78] in your heart of hearts -[3130.78 --> 3131.34] you admitted -[3131.34 --> 3132.12] that you were wrong -[3132.12 --> 3132.82] but you're not going -[3132.82 --> 3133.46] to give in -[3133.46 --> 3134.26] because you're not -[3134.26 --> 3134.80] going to give her -[3134.80 --> 3135.48] the satisfaction -[3135.48 --> 3136.26] of knowing -[3136.26 --> 3136.98] that she was right. -[3137.08 --> 3137.56] You don't do that, -[3137.60 --> 3137.72] right? -[3138.86 --> 3139.46] Just me? -[3140.18 --> 3141.12] Pronouns are intentional -[3141.12 --> 3141.64] there, folks. -[3141.64 --> 3148.36] Instead, Ahaz's response -[3148.36 --> 3150.80] is feigned piety. -[3151.00 --> 3151.88] Let's continue -[3151.88 --> 3153.22] in that text. -[3154.00 --> 3154.64] Verse 12, -[3154.78 --> 3155.56] Ahaz said, -[3156.24 --> 3157.12] I will not ask, -[3157.56 --> 3158.30] I will not put -[3158.30 --> 3159.80] the Lord to the test. -[3161.82 --> 3162.80] Isaiah's challenge -[3162.80 --> 3163.52] to him is -[3163.52 --> 3164.56] ask for evidence -[3164.56 --> 3167.00] and Ahaz's response -[3167.00 --> 3168.44] is to bury his head -[3168.44 --> 3169.10] in the sand -[3169.10 --> 3169.92] into clouded -[3169.92 --> 3171.06] and spiritual language. -[3171.64 --> 3173.24] Now look, -[3173.80 --> 3176.40] at this point, -[3177.64 --> 3178.90] even the most -[3178.90 --> 3180.20] compelling evidence -[3180.20 --> 3182.26] will be dismissed -[3182.26 --> 3184.12] and explained away. -[3187.38 --> 3187.60] Okay, -[3188.60 --> 3189.36] zoom out -[3189.36 --> 3190.14] for a moment. -[3192.56 --> 3193.50] Evidence -[3193.50 --> 3195.20] does not -[3195.20 --> 3196.20] create -[3196.20 --> 3197.22] faith. -[3199.96 --> 3200.52] Right? -[3200.52 --> 3201.00] Isaiah -[3201.00 --> 3201.96] wouldn't be able -[3201.96 --> 3202.68] to argue -[3202.68 --> 3203.36] Ahaz -[3203.36 --> 3204.08] into right -[3204.08 --> 3204.54] belief. -[3205.66 --> 3206.66] Just like -[3206.66 --> 3207.72] you can't argue -[3207.72 --> 3208.40] your friend -[3208.40 --> 3209.10] into right -[3209.10 --> 3209.50] belief, -[3209.54 --> 3210.02] no matter -[3210.02 --> 3210.58] how hard -[3210.58 --> 3211.18] you try. -[3212.02 --> 3212.34] But, -[3213.08 --> 3213.84] evidence -[3213.84 --> 3215.10] confirms -[3215.10 --> 3216.20] faith. -[3217.48 --> 3218.36] That is, -[3218.42 --> 3218.94] if you have -[3218.94 --> 3219.64] the eyes -[3219.64 --> 3220.48] to see it, -[3221.20 --> 3222.30] you will get it. -[3222.70 --> 3223.86] And it will be -[3223.86 --> 3224.52] a confirmation -[3224.52 --> 3225.98] for you. -[3226.84 --> 3227.24] Right? -[3227.24 --> 3227.70] where there -[3227.70 --> 3228.86] is no faith, -[3229.12 --> 3229.54] at least -[3229.54 --> 3230.26] not faith -[3230.26 --> 3231.02] in God -[3231.02 --> 3231.80] and his word -[3231.80 --> 3232.34] to us, -[3232.34 --> 3232.96] where there -[3232.96 --> 3233.68] is no faith, -[3234.02 --> 3234.38] evidence -[3234.38 --> 3235.12] will just -[3235.12 --> 3235.72] have to be -[3235.72 --> 3236.68] explained away. -[3237.78 --> 3238.34] Evidence -[3238.34 --> 3239.06] isn't welcome -[3239.06 --> 3241.16] and therefore, -[3241.80 --> 3242.10] evidence -[3242.10 --> 3243.06] isn't seen. -[3245.68 --> 3246.38] That's why -[3246.38 --> 3246.88] some of you -[3246.88 --> 3247.82] get so frustrated -[3247.82 --> 3248.92] trying to convince -[3248.92 --> 3249.42] your kids -[3249.42 --> 3249.94] to believe -[3249.94 --> 3250.60] like you do. -[3250.60 --> 3253.66] because without -[3253.66 --> 3254.16] the shared -[3254.16 --> 3254.64] faith, -[3254.82 --> 3255.66] it's really -[3255.66 --> 3256.24] easy to -[3256.24 --> 3256.88] explain that -[3256.88 --> 3257.62] evidence away. -[3258.34 --> 3258.62] One, -[3258.82 --> 3259.76] because it's -[3259.76 --> 3260.70] necessary to -[3260.70 --> 3261.32] explain that -[3261.32 --> 3262.02] evidence away -[3262.02 --> 3263.56] and two, -[3264.28 --> 3265.08] the evidence -[3265.08 --> 3266.38] requires faith -[3266.38 --> 3267.24] to make sense -[3267.24 --> 3267.58] of it. -[3268.70 --> 3269.30] Let's flip the -[3269.30 --> 3269.96] coin for a second, -[3270.04 --> 3270.14] right? -[3270.38 --> 3271.44] The very same -[3271.44 --> 3273.14] reason a strict -[3273.14 --> 3274.40] naturalist finds -[3274.40 --> 3274.92] it impossible -[3274.92 --> 3275.78] to believe -[3275.78 --> 3276.86] in a creation -[3276.86 --> 3278.34] account is -[3278.34 --> 3279.40] why you find -[3279.40 --> 3280.02] it impossible -[3280.02 --> 3280.96] not to believe -[3280.96 --> 3281.36] in one. -[3282.88 --> 3283.44] Or to put it -[3283.44 --> 3283.94] another way, -[3284.28 --> 3285.08] the very same -[3285.08 --> 3285.92] reason so many -[3285.92 --> 3286.70] people miss -[3286.70 --> 3288.02] the impossibility -[3288.02 --> 3288.70] of Christmas -[3288.70 --> 3289.82] is precisely -[3289.82 --> 3290.50] the reason -[3290.50 --> 3291.84] why you can't -[3291.84 --> 3292.82] help but see -[3292.82 --> 3293.54] it sitting here -[3293.54 --> 3294.06] this morning. -[3295.00 --> 3295.42] At least, -[3295.76 --> 3296.50] I hope you see -[3296.50 --> 3297.62] it or you're -[3297.62 --> 3298.32] beginning to see -[3298.32 --> 3298.54] it. -[3298.86 --> 3299.18] You're getting -[3299.18 --> 3299.68] a glimpse -[3299.68 --> 3300.88] of it. -[3302.06 --> 3302.46] And I know -[3302.46 --> 3302.82] it seems -[3302.82 --> 3303.92] convoluted -[3303.92 --> 3304.24] perhaps. -[3304.38 --> 3305.18] Let's try it -[3305.18 --> 3306.14] this way. -[3308.44 --> 3309.34] Where you -[3309.34 --> 3310.56] start with -[3310.56 --> 3311.18] your faith, -[3311.34 --> 3311.74] where you -[3311.74 --> 3312.28] are starting -[3312.28 --> 3312.86] from, -[3313.48 --> 3313.94] determines -[3313.94 --> 3315.28] where you -[3315.28 --> 3315.68] will end -[3315.68 --> 3316.00] at. -[3317.76 --> 3317.98] Right? -[3318.02 --> 3318.34] If you -[3318.34 --> 3319.06] believe in -[3319.06 --> 3319.44] a God -[3319.44 --> 3320.00] who says -[3320.00 --> 3320.92] something like, -[3321.32 --> 3321.88] with man -[3321.88 --> 3322.36] this is -[3322.36 --> 3322.84] impossible, -[3323.30 --> 3323.70] but with -[3323.70 --> 3324.48] God all -[3324.48 --> 3325.38] things are -[3325.38 --> 3325.86] possible. -[3326.98 --> 3327.24] If you -[3327.24 --> 3327.56] believe in -[3327.56 --> 3327.82] a God -[3327.82 --> 3328.20] who says -[3328.20 --> 3328.58] that, -[3328.86 --> 3329.40] then what -[3329.40 --> 3330.40] you assume -[3330.40 --> 3331.18] to be true -[3331.18 --> 3332.16] will be -[3332.16 --> 3332.62] changed, -[3332.90 --> 3333.28] will be -[3333.28 --> 3333.78] transformed. -[3335.22 --> 3335.64] If you -[3335.64 --> 3336.20] don't yet -[3336.20 --> 3336.82] believe in -[3336.82 --> 3337.32] this kind -[3337.32 --> 3337.78] of God, -[3338.32 --> 3338.84] then it -[3338.84 --> 3339.14] remains -[3339.14 --> 3339.66] impossible. -[3340.60 --> 3340.90] And in -[3340.90 --> 3341.18] a sense, -[3341.26 --> 3341.46] you're not -[3341.46 --> 3341.72] wrong, -[3341.80 --> 3342.56] because for -[3342.56 --> 3342.88] you, -[3342.96 --> 3343.62] from your -[3343.62 --> 3344.16] perspective, -[3345.16 --> 3345.74] it is -[3345.74 --> 3346.62] impossible. -[3349.02 --> 3349.38] But, -[3349.88 --> 3351.70] but, -[3351.76 --> 3352.32] look at -[3352.32 --> 3353.72] how Isaiah -[3353.72 --> 3355.00] responds. -[3358.52 --> 3359.54] Verse 13, -[3360.92 --> 3361.94] Isaiah said, -[3361.94 --> 3363.10] here, -[3363.10 --> 3363.12] here, -[3363.52 --> 3364.06] now, -[3364.36 --> 3364.60] you, -[3364.86 --> 3365.78] house of -[3365.78 --> 3366.22] David, -[3366.36 --> 3366.86] is it not -[3366.86 --> 3367.46] enough to -[3367.46 --> 3367.94] try the -[3367.94 --> 3368.46] patience of -[3368.46 --> 3368.84] humans? -[3369.26 --> 3369.68] Will you -[3369.68 --> 3370.32] try the -[3370.32 --> 3371.12] patience of -[3371.12 --> 3371.84] my God -[3371.84 --> 3372.54] also? -[3373.42 --> 3373.74] Now, -[3373.86 --> 3374.50] don't sleep -[3374.50 --> 3375.02] on that -[3375.02 --> 3375.62] my God -[3375.62 --> 3376.40] line there. -[3377.12 --> 3377.26] Right? -[3377.36 --> 3378.02] Isaiah is -[3378.02 --> 3379.00] saying that -[3379.00 --> 3380.02] God isn't -[3380.02 --> 3381.16] Ahaz's God -[3381.16 --> 3381.70] anymore. -[3381.92 --> 3382.52] Ahaz has -[3382.52 --> 3383.70] chosen something -[3383.70 --> 3384.18] different. -[3384.32 --> 3384.86] His face, -[3385.24 --> 3385.90] his faith -[3385.90 --> 3387.10] is elsewhere, -[3387.10 --> 3388.10] and because of -[3388.10 --> 3388.24] that, -[3388.28 --> 3388.90] he's burying -[3388.90 --> 3389.50] his face -[3389.50 --> 3390.30] into the -[3390.30 --> 3390.58] sand. -[3390.58 --> 3391.38] He's hiding -[3391.38 --> 3392.76] the reality -[3392.76 --> 3393.50] of his -[3393.50 --> 3394.02] lack of -[3394.02 --> 3394.86] faith behind -[3394.86 --> 3395.56] a false -[3395.56 --> 3396.20] sense of -[3396.20 --> 3396.64] piety. -[3398.56 --> 3398.88] And so -[3398.88 --> 3399.32] Isaiah -[3399.32 --> 3401.00] says, -[3401.70 --> 3402.04] therefore, -[3402.96 --> 3403.74] the Lord -[3403.74 --> 3404.84] himself will -[3404.84 --> 3405.42] give you -[3405.42 --> 3406.20] a sign. -[3406.74 --> 3407.40] The virgin -[3407.40 --> 3408.30] will conceive -[3408.30 --> 3408.88] and give -[3408.88 --> 3409.78] birth to a -[3409.78 --> 3410.72] son and -[3410.72 --> 3412.12] will call -[3412.12 --> 3412.66] him -[3412.66 --> 3414.04] Emmanuel. -[3418.10 --> 3419.06] That's the -[3419.06 --> 3419.86] impossibility -[3419.86 --> 3420.50] of Christmas. -[3420.58 --> 3422.92] Now, -[3422.96 --> 3423.14] look, -[3423.20 --> 3423.56] some of you -[3423.56 --> 3424.06] heard me -[3424.06 --> 3424.56] say that, -[3424.64 --> 3424.88] and you're -[3424.88 --> 3425.18] thinking, -[3425.32 --> 3425.50] yep, -[3425.76 --> 3426.32] the virgin -[3426.32 --> 3426.90] will conceive -[3426.90 --> 3427.26] and give -[3427.26 --> 3427.70] birth to -[3427.70 --> 3428.08] a son. -[3428.28 --> 3428.72] That's -[3428.72 --> 3429.24] impossible. -[3429.86 --> 3430.26] And yeah, -[3430.42 --> 3430.90] you're right, -[3431.04 --> 3431.58] that's an -[3431.58 --> 3432.64] impossibility -[3432.64 --> 3433.68] in this -[3433.68 --> 3434.06] text. -[3434.46 --> 3435.20] We know -[3435.20 --> 3436.00] better now, -[3436.14 --> 3436.50] virgins -[3436.50 --> 3437.16] don't have -[3437.16 --> 3437.92] babies, -[3438.22 --> 3438.64] unless, -[3438.76 --> 3439.28] of course, -[3440.44 --> 3441.38] unless you -[3441.38 --> 3442.24] believe in -[3442.24 --> 3443.08] a God who -[3443.08 --> 3443.86] looks at the -[3443.86 --> 3444.62] impossible and -[3444.62 --> 3444.80] says, -[3444.90 --> 3445.16] boom, -[3445.32 --> 3445.68] possible. -[3446.90 --> 3447.30] Unless, -[3447.44 --> 3447.70] of course, -[3447.76 --> 3448.38] you believe in -[3448.38 --> 3448.94] a God who -[3448.94 --> 3449.98] could create -[3449.98 --> 3450.98] everything that -[3450.98 --> 3452.36] you see out -[3452.36 --> 3453.12] of nothing with -[3453.12 --> 3453.76] just a word, -[3454.02 --> 3454.56] a God who -[3454.56 --> 3454.80] said, -[3455.02 --> 3455.38] let there be -[3455.38 --> 3455.68] light, -[3455.76 --> 3456.52] and then bang, -[3456.68 --> 3457.28] there's an -[3457.28 --> 3458.08] explosion of -[3458.08 --> 3458.38] light. -[3459.42 --> 3459.84] And if that's -[3459.84 --> 3460.06] what you -[3460.06 --> 3460.52] believe, -[3460.72 --> 3461.38] the only -[3461.38 --> 3461.94] reasonable -[3461.94 --> 3463.06] conclusion is -[3463.06 --> 3463.72] that God -[3463.72 --> 3464.44] who formed -[3464.44 --> 3465.62] man out of -[3465.62 --> 3466.44] dust and dirt -[3466.44 --> 3467.20] and breathed -[3467.20 --> 3467.86] life into -[3467.86 --> 3468.16] them, -[3468.40 --> 3468.94] the only -[3468.94 --> 3469.44] reasonable -[3469.44 --> 3470.24] conclusion that -[3470.24 --> 3470.80] God who -[3470.80 --> 3472.20] raised a man -[3472.20 --> 3473.00] from the dead, -[3473.00 --> 3473.84] the only -[3473.84 --> 3474.30] reasonable -[3474.30 --> 3475.12] conclusion is -[3475.12 --> 3475.60] that God -[3475.60 --> 3476.00] can do -[3476.00 --> 3477.02] anything in -[3477.02 --> 3477.52] this physical -[3477.52 --> 3477.92] world. -[3479.20 --> 3479.38] Right? -[3479.40 --> 3479.80] If you have -[3479.80 --> 3480.46] the eyes of -[3480.46 --> 3481.26] faith to see -[3481.26 --> 3481.46] it, -[3482.02 --> 3482.74] it's just -[3482.74 --> 3483.92] another evidence -[3483.92 --> 3484.92] of God's -[3484.92 --> 3486.12] sovereign rule -[3486.12 --> 3486.90] that only -[3486.90 --> 3487.58] makes sense, -[3487.86 --> 3488.38] that speaks -[3488.38 --> 3489.76] cogently to -[3489.76 --> 3490.30] your heart. -[3491.66 --> 3492.50] And if you -[3492.50 --> 3492.86] don't, -[3494.00 --> 3494.48] well, -[3494.50 --> 3494.68] then it -[3494.68 --> 3495.00] doesn't. -[3497.56 --> 3498.26] And you -[3498.26 --> 3498.52] need to -[3498.52 --> 3498.96] explain it -[3498.96 --> 3499.22] away. -[3500.82 --> 3501.66] You need to -[3501.66 --> 3502.40] find a reason, -[3502.84 --> 3503.08] right, -[3503.14 --> 3503.88] why all of -[3503.88 --> 3504.78] these rational, -[3505.34 --> 3505.86] reasonable, -[3506.44 --> 3506.94] averagely -[3506.94 --> 3507.98] intelligent people -[3507.98 --> 3509.04] and billions -[3509.04 --> 3510.06] throughout the -[3510.06 --> 3510.66] world and -[3510.66 --> 3511.40] throughout history -[3511.40 --> 3512.22] believe this -[3512.22 --> 3512.80] to be true. -[3514.80 --> 3515.38] Right? -[3515.42 --> 3516.02] When you try to -[3516.02 --> 3516.74] explain that -[3516.74 --> 3517.12] away, -[3517.36 --> 3518.00] don't just -[3518.00 --> 3518.62] bury your head -[3518.62 --> 3519.20] in the sand -[3519.20 --> 3520.10] and feign some -[3520.10 --> 3520.74] sense of -[3520.74 --> 3521.52] piety, -[3522.24 --> 3522.88] assuming that -[3522.88 --> 3523.34] you know -[3523.34 --> 3524.18] best. -[3526.52 --> 3526.72] Right? -[3526.76 --> 3527.16] The virgin -[3527.16 --> 3528.46] birth is -[3528.46 --> 3530.26] an impossibility -[3530.26 --> 3531.66] made possible -[3531.66 --> 3532.36] at Christmas. -[3532.52 --> 3533.08] Don't miss -[3533.08 --> 3533.42] that. -[3533.88 --> 3534.58] Instead, -[3535.58 --> 3536.72] marvel at -[3536.72 --> 3536.94] it. -[3538.16 --> 3539.28] But that's -[3539.28 --> 3539.80] not the -[3539.80 --> 3540.32] impossible -[3540.32 --> 3540.92] Christmas -[3540.92 --> 3541.68] that I'm -[3541.68 --> 3542.22] talking about. -[3543.60 --> 3544.52] That's just -[3544.52 --> 3545.00] step one. -[3546.32 --> 3547.22] To get -[3547.22 --> 3547.40] there, -[3547.50 --> 3548.08] let's read -[3548.08 --> 3549.86] Matthew 1, -[3550.20 --> 3551.36] 18 to -[3551.36 --> 3551.90] 23 -[3551.90 --> 3553.06] together. -[3555.66 --> 3556.42] This -[3556.42 --> 3557.38] is how -[3557.38 --> 3557.84] the birth -[3557.84 --> 3558.40] of Jesus, -[3558.56 --> 3559.04] the Messiah, -[3559.18 --> 3559.64] came about. -[3559.64 --> 3561.70] his mother -[3561.70 --> 3562.40] Mary was -[3562.40 --> 3563.04] pledged to -[3563.04 --> 3563.50] be married -[3563.50 --> 3564.12] to Joseph, -[3564.12 --> 3565.08] but before -[3565.08 --> 3565.66] they came -[3565.66 --> 3566.18] together, -[3566.58 --> 3566.94] she was -[3566.94 --> 3567.38] found to -[3567.38 --> 3567.86] be pregnant -[3567.86 --> 3568.30] through the -[3568.30 --> 3568.98] Holy Spirit. -[3569.86 --> 3570.36] Because -[3570.36 --> 3570.80] Joseph, -[3570.92 --> 3571.36] her husband, -[3571.48 --> 3572.06] was faithful -[3572.06 --> 3572.72] to the law -[3572.72 --> 3573.36] and yet did -[3573.36 --> 3573.90] not want to -[3573.90 --> 3574.72] expose her to -[3574.72 --> 3575.60] public disgrace, -[3575.98 --> 3576.68] he had in -[3576.68 --> 3577.28] mind to -[3577.28 --> 3577.92] divorce her -[3577.92 --> 3578.34] quietly. -[3578.34 --> 3580.30] But after -[3580.30 --> 3580.64] he had -[3580.64 --> 3581.02] considered -[3581.02 --> 3581.42] this, -[3581.50 --> 3582.00] an angel -[3582.00 --> 3582.30] of the -[3582.30 --> 3582.92] Lord appeared -[3582.92 --> 3583.30] to him -[3583.30 --> 3583.82] in a dream -[3583.82 --> 3584.24] and said, -[3584.38 --> 3584.70] Joseph, -[3585.18 --> 3585.86] son of -[3585.86 --> 3586.22] David, -[3586.38 --> 3587.00] do not be -[3587.00 --> 3587.66] afraid to -[3587.66 --> 3588.20] take Mary -[3588.20 --> 3588.76] home as -[3588.76 --> 3589.16] your wife, -[3589.52 --> 3590.06] because what -[3590.06 --> 3590.72] is conceived -[3590.72 --> 3591.86] in her is -[3591.86 --> 3592.40] from the -[3592.40 --> 3593.16] Holy Spirit. -[3593.72 --> 3594.20] She will -[3594.20 --> 3594.72] give birth -[3594.72 --> 3595.44] to a son -[3595.44 --> 3595.96] and you -[3595.96 --> 3596.38] are to -[3596.38 --> 3596.80] give him -[3596.80 --> 3597.30] the name -[3597.30 --> 3597.90] Jesus, -[3597.90 --> 3598.76] because he -[3598.76 --> 3599.42] will save -[3599.42 --> 3600.30] his people -[3600.30 --> 3601.00] from all -[3601.00 --> 3602.20] their sins. -[3602.20 --> 3603.96] all this -[3603.96 --> 3604.68] took place -[3604.68 --> 3605.34] to fulfill -[3605.34 --> 3605.74] what the -[3605.74 --> 3606.24] Lord had -[3606.24 --> 3606.84] said through -[3606.84 --> 3607.40] the prophet. -[3608.30 --> 3608.82] The virgin -[3608.82 --> 3609.62] will conceive -[3609.62 --> 3610.22] and give -[3610.22 --> 3611.16] birth to -[3611.16 --> 3611.68] a son -[3611.68 --> 3612.80] and they -[3612.80 --> 3613.42] will call -[3613.42 --> 3613.80] him -[3613.80 --> 3614.90] Emmanuel, -[3615.50 --> 3616.44] which means -[3616.44 --> 3617.46] God -[3617.46 --> 3619.04] with us. -[3622.04 --> 3622.96] This is -[3622.96 --> 3623.52] how the -[3623.52 --> 3624.14] birth of -[3624.14 --> 3624.82] Jesus the -[3624.82 --> 3625.32] Messiah -[3625.32 --> 3626.60] came about, -[3626.70 --> 3626.84] right? -[3626.88 --> 3627.52] The anointed -[3627.52 --> 3628.00] one, -[3628.36 --> 3628.94] the servant -[3628.94 --> 3629.88] who is king, -[3630.00 --> 3630.58] the servant -[3630.58 --> 3631.68] who is God's -[3631.68 --> 3632.30] son, -[3632.46 --> 3633.12] the servant -[3633.12 --> 3634.78] who is God. -[3636.32 --> 3637.04] She was -[3637.04 --> 3637.80] found to be -[3637.80 --> 3638.88] pregnant through -[3638.88 --> 3640.04] the Holy Spirit. -[3640.18 --> 3640.80] What is -[3640.80 --> 3641.76] conceived in -[3641.76 --> 3642.86] her is from -[3642.86 --> 3643.94] the Holy Spirit. -[3644.24 --> 3644.58] God, -[3644.64 --> 3645.56] God the Spirit -[3645.56 --> 3646.74] causes Mary -[3646.74 --> 3647.98] to be with -[3647.98 --> 3648.60] child. -[3648.78 --> 3649.58] God is -[3649.58 --> 3650.78] his father. -[3650.94 --> 3651.50] This ain't -[3651.50 --> 3652.30] no ordinary -[3652.30 --> 3652.88] son. -[3653.14 --> 3654.06] Don't miss -[3654.06 --> 3654.42] that. -[3655.56 --> 3656.10] She will -[3656.10 --> 3656.58] give birth -[3656.58 --> 3657.26] to a son -[3657.26 --> 3657.82] and you are -[3657.82 --> 3658.36] to give him -[3658.36 --> 3658.78] the name -[3658.78 --> 3659.46] Jesus, -[3659.64 --> 3660.06] because he -[3660.06 --> 3660.60] will save -[3660.60 --> 3661.14] his people -[3661.14 --> 3661.60] from their -[3661.60 --> 3662.00] sins. -[3662.48 --> 3663.06] Jesus, -[3663.38 --> 3663.88] Yeshua, -[3664.30 --> 3665.18] means the -[3665.18 --> 3666.14] Lord saves. -[3667.68 --> 3668.14] And all -[3668.14 --> 3668.52] of this -[3668.52 --> 3669.12] took place -[3669.12 --> 3669.68] to fulfill -[3669.68 --> 3670.04] what the -[3670.04 --> 3670.46] Lord had -[3670.46 --> 3670.88] said through -[3670.88 --> 3671.36] the prophet. -[3672.10 --> 3672.66] The virgin -[3672.66 --> 3673.34] will conceive -[3673.34 --> 3673.86] and give -[3673.86 --> 3674.38] birth to -[3674.38 --> 3674.90] a son -[3674.90 --> 3675.68] and they -[3675.68 --> 3676.26] will call -[3676.26 --> 3676.54] him -[3676.54 --> 3677.26] Emmanuel, -[3677.76 --> 3678.48] which means -[3678.48 --> 3679.16] God -[3679.16 --> 3680.70] with us. -[3681.98 --> 3682.58] God -[3682.58 --> 3683.54] with -[3683.54 --> 3684.74] us. -[3685.92 --> 3686.56] That -[3686.56 --> 3687.48] is the -[3687.48 --> 3688.50] impossibility -[3688.50 --> 3689.70] of Christmas. -[3689.70 --> 3690.56] God -[3690.56 --> 3691.62] with us. -[3692.28 --> 3693.20] The eternal -[3693.20 --> 3693.88] enters -[3693.88 --> 3694.42] time. -[3695.82 --> 3696.46] The infinite -[3696.46 --> 3697.52] limits himself -[3697.52 --> 3698.30] into the -[3698.30 --> 3698.68] finite. -[3699.06 --> 3699.98] The transcendent -[3699.98 --> 3700.84] condescends -[3700.84 --> 3701.52] and becomes -[3701.52 --> 3702.14] imminent. -[3702.52 --> 3702.74] In the -[3702.74 --> 3703.16] Christ -[3703.16 --> 3703.64] child, -[3703.76 --> 3704.30] the fullness -[3704.30 --> 3705.48] of God -[3705.48 --> 3706.40] dwells. -[3707.48 --> 3707.84] Oh man, -[3707.94 --> 3708.44] don't be -[3708.44 --> 3708.98] numb -[3708.98 --> 3709.78] to this -[3709.78 --> 3710.30] miracle -[3710.30 --> 3711.04] or take -[3711.04 --> 3711.60] for granted -[3711.60 --> 3712.48] the majesty -[3712.48 --> 3713.14] of this -[3713.14 --> 3713.82] mystery. -[3713.96 --> 3714.32] This is -[3714.32 --> 3714.70] Christmas. -[3714.70 --> 3716.70] right? -[3716.76 --> 3716.94] And you -[3716.94 --> 3717.58] can choose -[3717.58 --> 3718.06] to bury -[3718.06 --> 3718.46] your head -[3718.46 --> 3718.78] in the -[3718.78 --> 3719.08] sand -[3719.08 --> 3719.60] and explain -[3719.60 --> 3719.96] it away. -[3721.16 --> 3721.60] But -[3721.60 --> 3721.92] instead, -[3723.02 --> 3724.74] instead I -[3724.74 --> 3725.22] hope you -[3725.22 --> 3725.94] begin to -[3725.94 --> 3726.40] wonder. -[3727.48 --> 3727.80] And I -[3727.80 --> 3728.18] pray, -[3728.28 --> 3728.72] I pray -[3728.72 --> 3729.08] that your -[3729.08 --> 3729.58] wonder -[3729.58 --> 3731.16] turns to -[3731.16 --> 3731.60] worship -[3731.60 --> 3732.76] as you -[3732.76 --> 3733.28] approach -[3733.28 --> 3733.68] this -[3733.68 --> 3734.48] Christ -[3734.48 --> 3734.82] child. -[3735.72 --> 3736.18] Don't be -[3736.18 --> 3736.74] distracted -[3736.74 --> 3737.28] by the -[3737.28 --> 3737.76] busyness -[3737.76 --> 3738.12] of the -[3738.12 --> 3738.50] season -[3738.50 --> 3738.86] around. -[3739.32 --> 3739.98] Don't let -[3739.98 --> 3740.34] what is -[3740.34 --> 3740.78] right in -[3740.78 --> 3741.28] front of -[3741.28 --> 3742.26] you rob -[3742.26 --> 3743.28] you of -[3743.28 --> 3743.98] the God -[3743.98 --> 3744.30] who's -[3744.30 --> 3744.60] all -[3744.60 --> 3745.06] around -[3745.06 --> 3745.30] you, -[3745.40 --> 3745.84] the God -[3745.84 --> 3746.48] who came -[3746.48 --> 3747.40] into the -[3747.40 --> 3747.88] world to -[3747.88 --> 3748.34] live the -[3748.34 --> 3748.74] life I -[3748.74 --> 3749.04] should have -[3749.04 --> 3749.38] lived and -[3749.38 --> 3750.08] who died -[3750.08 --> 3750.54] the death -[3750.54 --> 3750.96] that I -[3750.96 --> 3751.74] deserved. -[3752.28 --> 3753.02] That's the -[3753.02 --> 3753.86] impossibility -[3753.86 --> 3754.54] of Christmas -[3754.54 --> 3755.52] made possible -[3755.52 --> 3756.84] by Emmanuel, -[3757.24 --> 3758.20] God with -[3758.20 --> 3758.68] us. -[3759.08 --> 3759.74] And seeing -[3759.74 --> 3760.36] the world -[3760.36 --> 3761.00] in this -[3761.00 --> 3761.92] way changes -[3761.92 --> 3762.86] everything -[3762.86 --> 3764.24] about the -[3764.24 --> 3764.56] world. -[3767.06 --> 3768.22] So now, -[3769.00 --> 3769.58] no matter -[3769.58 --> 3770.48] what you -[3770.48 --> 3771.80] are facing, -[3772.92 --> 3773.40] no matter -[3773.40 --> 3774.42] how deep -[3774.42 --> 3775.54] the darkness -[3775.54 --> 3776.18] and the -[3776.18 --> 3776.80] depths of -[3776.80 --> 3777.40] despair -[3777.40 --> 3778.86] might feel, -[3780.48 --> 3782.56] God is -[3782.56 --> 3784.38] with us. -[3785.42 --> 3786.40] No matter -[3786.40 --> 3787.52] how impossible -[3787.52 --> 3788.88] your circumstance -[3788.88 --> 3790.20] might seem, -[3790.38 --> 3791.36] God is -[3791.36 --> 3792.38] with us. -[3792.96 --> 3793.44] No matter -[3793.44 --> 3794.06] how great -[3794.06 --> 3795.08] or successful -[3795.08 --> 3796.06] you think -[3796.06 --> 3796.84] yourself to -[3796.84 --> 3797.48] have been -[3797.48 --> 3798.18] and become, -[3798.52 --> 3799.34] God is -[3799.34 --> 3800.28] with us -[3800.28 --> 3800.64] and it's -[3800.64 --> 3801.28] from him -[3801.28 --> 3801.62] and him -[3801.62 --> 3802.06] alone -[3802.06 --> 3802.86] that all -[3802.86 --> 3803.70] good gifts -[3803.70 --> 3804.26] come. -[3806.86 --> 3807.90] And all -[3807.90 --> 3808.60] of this, -[3809.44 --> 3811.00] all of -[3811.00 --> 3811.52] this -[3811.52 --> 3812.84] comes -[3812.84 --> 3814.24] with the -[3814.24 --> 3814.86] eyes of -[3814.86 --> 3815.24] faith -[3815.24 --> 3816.66] to see it. -[3818.30 --> 3819.22] I pray -[3819.22 --> 3819.62] that this -[3819.62 --> 3820.04] Christmas -[3820.04 --> 3821.84] you share -[3821.84 --> 3822.60] those eyes -[3822.60 --> 3823.80] of faith -[3823.80 --> 3824.96] with me. -[3824.96 --> 3827.86] and so -[3827.86 --> 3828.62] this -[3828.62 --> 3829.22] Christmas -[3829.22 --> 3830.70] marveling -[3830.70 --> 3830.96] at the -[3830.96 --> 3831.38] majesty -[3831.38 --> 3832.12] of God -[3832.12 --> 3833.22] with us, -[3833.52 --> 3834.22] all of -[3834.22 --> 3835.02] those gathered -[3835.02 --> 3835.76] here who -[3835.76 --> 3836.56] have these -[3836.56 --> 3837.30] eyes of -[3837.30 --> 3837.66] faith -[3837.66 --> 3838.46] together -[3838.46 --> 3839.06] said, -[3840.14 --> 3840.44] amen. -[3841.44 --> 3842.02] Let's -[3842.02 --> 3842.22] pray. -[3842.22 --> 3848.78] Lord -[3848.78 --> 3850.12] Jesus -[3850.12 --> 3851.50] Christ, -[3853.72 --> 3854.30] Yeshua -[3854.30 --> 3855.64] Messiah, -[3856.26 --> 3856.62] Jesus -[3856.62 --> 3858.04] Messiah, -[3861.38 --> 3861.86] Jesus -[3861.86 --> 3863.56] Christos, -[3865.50 --> 3865.94] you -[3865.94 --> 3866.62] are -[3866.62 --> 3867.28] God -[3867.28 --> 3868.58] with us, -[3868.58 --> 3869.24] Emmanuel. -[3869.24 --> 3873.64] may this -[3873.64 --> 3874.56] truth -[3874.56 --> 3875.88] transform -[3875.88 --> 3876.90] how we -[3876.90 --> 3877.56] see -[3877.56 --> 3878.46] the world. -[3880.84 --> 3881.66] Give -[3881.66 --> 3882.20] us -[3882.20 --> 3882.80] today -[3882.80 --> 3883.40] these -[3883.40 --> 3884.04] eyes -[3884.04 --> 3885.12] of faith -[3885.12 --> 3885.88] that in -[3885.88 --> 3886.32] you, -[3886.60 --> 3887.34] from you, -[3887.42 --> 3888.02] and with -[3888.02 --> 3888.38] you, -[3888.54 --> 3889.24] we might -[3889.24 --> 3889.88] see -[3889.88 --> 3890.66] you. -[3892.98 --> 3894.14] Draw us -[3894.14 --> 3894.50] near -[3894.50 --> 3895.38] to you, -[3895.58 --> 3896.14] we pray -[3896.14 --> 3896.94] today, -[3896.94 --> 3899.06] that we -[3899.06 --> 3899.32] might -[3899.32 --> 3899.78] marvel -[3899.78 --> 3900.64] at the -[3900.64 --> 3901.12] mystery -[3901.12 --> 3902.20] of the -[3902.20 --> 3902.80] incarnation. -[3903.84 --> 3904.32] In -[3904.32 --> 3904.62] Jesus' -[3904.80 --> 3905.20] name we -[3905.20 --> 3905.50] pray. -[3906.36 --> 3906.80] Amen. -[3907.82 --> 3908.22] Amen. -[3908.22 --> 3908.28] Amen. -[3918.34 --> 3918.60] Amen. -[3918.60 --> 3919.26] Amen. -[3919.26 --> 3919.38] Amen. -[3919.38 --> 3919.76] Amen. -[3919.76 --> 3919.86] Amen. -[3919.86 --> 3919.98] Amen. -[3919.98 --> 3920.20] Amen. -[3920.20 --> 3921.32] Amen. -[3921.32 --> 3922.02] Amen. -[3922.02 --> 3922.38] Amen. -[3922.38 --> 3922.46] Amen. -[3922.46 --> 3922.54] Amen. -[3926.94 --> 3927.94] 数学术 -[3929.50 --> 3934.32] 文字幕志愿者 倫直 -[3935.86 --> 3940.54] mgrim -[3940.54 --> 3954.54] is -[3959.50 --> 3968.54] with their wondrous -[3970.54 --> 3977.02] the -[3981.82 --> 3982.06] is -[3982.62 --> 3984.62] is -[3984.62 --> 4003.66] To the calling of glory, glory to God in the highest, -[4003.66 --> 4008.74] Peace to man on earth -[4008.74 --> 4015.74] Come and adore him with wonder -[4015.74 --> 4020.66] Christ, Lord of heaven and earth -[4021.22 --> 4031.56] There is a day all creation has longed for -[4031.56 --> 4035.60] When all of time has been spent -[4035.60 --> 4038.92] And the Lord returns -[4038.92 --> 4041.90] His song will repeat -[4041.90 --> 4044.90] As heaven completes -[4044.90 --> 4049.90] Promise peace that will fill the nations -[4049.90 --> 4055.56] Glory to God in the highest -[4055.56 --> 4060.72] Peace to man on earth -[4060.72 --> 4067.08] Come and adore him with wonder -[4067.08 --> 4072.92] Christ, Lord of heaven and earth -[4072.92 --> 4080.18] Glory to God in the highest -[4080.18 --> 4085.66] Peace to man on earth -[4085.66 --> 4092.02] Come and adore him with wonder -[4092.02 --> 4098.38] Christ, Lord of heaven and earth -[4098.38 --> 4104.74] Glory to God in the highest -[4104.74 --> 4109.74] Peace to man on earth -[4109.74 --> 4116.68] Come and adore him with wonder -[4116.68 --> 4122.04] Christ, Lord of heaven and earth -[4122.04 --> 4140.34] As we go this Christmas day -[4140.34 --> 4144.78] Know that God himself goes with you -[4144.78 --> 4146.98] As you receive God's blessing -[4146.98 --> 4150.72] I invite you to go also with an invitation -[4150.72 --> 4153.04] If you are looking for prayer -[4153.04 --> 4155.18] Or would like to connect with someone to pray -[4155.18 --> 4157.44] About whatever it is that God has laid on your heart -[4157.44 --> 4158.44] There will be someone here -[4158.44 --> 4159.14] There will be someone here up front -[4159.14 --> 4160.74] With a yellow name tag on -[4160.74 --> 4161.70] They'd love to meet you -[4161.70 --> 4163.54] To pray with you in that moment -[4163.54 --> 4164.70] You can find myself -[4164.70 --> 4167.10] Or really anyone here as well -[4167.10 --> 4168.84] Would love to pray with you -[4168.84 --> 4172.12] Receive the blessing of God -[4172.12 --> 4173.84] As we are sent from this place -[4173.84 --> 4176.98] Joining him in his mission -[4176.98 --> 4180.28] To declare the wonderful glory -[4180.28 --> 4181.26] Of God -[4181.26 --> 4183.20] Receive his blessing -[4183.20 --> 4185.78] God, go before you -[4185.78 --> 4186.60] To lead you -[4186.60 --> 4188.54] God, go behind you -[4188.54 --> 4189.36] To protect you -[4189.36 --> 4191.28] God, go beneath you -[4191.28 --> 4192.30] To support you -[4192.30 --> 4193.90] And God, go beside you -[4193.90 --> 4194.98] To befriend you -[4194.98 --> 4197.02] Do not be afraid -[4197.02 --> 4199.06] Let the blessing of God -[4199.06 --> 4200.02] Come upon you today -[4200.02 --> 4201.74] Do not be afraid -[4201.74 --> 4204.04] But go in peace -[4204.04 --> 4206.96] To love and serve the Lord -[4206.96 --> 4208.52] Amen -[4208.52 --> 4229.08] Joy to the world -[4229.08 --> 4232.60] The Lord is come -[4232.60 --> 4236.68] And earth we sing -[4236.68 --> 4263.58] If you are -[4263.58 --> 4285.56] Joy to the earth, our Savior reigns, and all their songs and songs, while fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains, -[4285.56 --> 4299.82] Repeat the sounding joy, repeat the sounding joy, repeat the sounding joy. -[4299.82 --> 4314.82] No more let sin and sorrow grow, your thorns infest the ground. -[4315.56 --> 4337.24] He comes to make His blessings flow, far as the curse is found, far as, far as the curse is found. -[4337.24 --> 4351.24] He rules the world with truth and grace, and makes the nations prove. -[4351.24 --> 4369.24] The glories of His righteousness, and wonders of His love, and wonders of His love. -[4369.24 --> 4375.24] The glories of His love. -[4375.24 --> 4380.24] The glories of His love. -[4380.24 --> 4385.24] The glories of His love. -[4385.24 --> 4415.22] Thank you. -[4415.24 --> 4445.22] Thank you. -[4445.24 --> 4475.22] Thank you. -[4475.24 --> 4505.22] Thank you. -[4505.24 --> 4535.22] Thank you. -[4535.24 --> 4537.24] Thank you. -[4565.24 --> 4567.24] Thank you. -[4595.24 --> 4597.24] Thank you. -[4625.24 --> 4627.24] Thank you. -[4655.24 --> 4657.24] Thank you. -[4685.24 --> 4687.24] Thank you. diff --git a/Christmas Evensong, December 21, 2025_summary.txt b/Christmas Evensong, December 21, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 5a4f4fbd112bc02421196bd1e2a63b180ef81344..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Christmas Evensong, December 21, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,46 +0,0 @@ -• The song "Mary Did You Know" is sung in various sections -• A list of prophecies and attributes are attributed to Jesus Christ -• References to biblical accounts of Jesus' life and miracles -• Alleluia is repeated multiple times throughout the singing -• Introductory remarks at the end for an Evensong Christmas service -• Candle to be used at the end of the service -• Encouragement not to light candles during the service -• Introduction of worship team members -• Special guests joining the service, including musicians and singers -• Christmas song to be sung by special guests (Marvelous Light) -• Octet singing What Child Is This? -• Readings from Scripture and participation in singing Christmas songs -• Fellowship and hot chocolate after the service -• Pastor Kevin's prayer for the evening -• Invitation for God's greeting, with reading from Revelation -• Reading of Matthew 1:18-23 -• Singing of a hymn (Holy is His name) -• Praise to God's name and redemption through Jesus Christ -• Creation story from Genesis, specifically God creating light and separating it from darkness -• The need for a savior, with Jesus being born to take on flesh and conquer death -• Discussion of sin and salvation through faith in Emmanuel -• A hymn-like section with lyrics mentioning Emmanuel and giving glory to His name -• The Lord's existence and attributes -• Israel's history, including their rejection of God as king and adoption of an earthly ruler -• Prophecies of a savior, including Isaiah's "shoot from Jesse" passage -• Birth and life of Jesus Christ, with references to His names (e.g. Wonderful Counselor, Everlasting Father) -• Worship and celebration of Jesus' birth, with hymns and poetry -• The Virgin sings the story of Christ's birth -• The visit of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem, and the birth of Jesus -• An angel appears to shepherds in a nearby field, announcing the birth of Jesus as the Messiah -• The shepherds visit Mary, Joseph, and Jesus in Bethlehem -• A company of heavenly hosts appear with the angel, praising God and singing hymns -• Shepherds and angels share the news of Jesus' birth with others -• Hymns are sung in praise of Jesus as the King of kings -• The story is told through a series of lyrical passages -• The Magi and the birth of Christ -• Waiting for Christ's second coming -• Celebrating Christ's work and sacrifice -• Revelation and God's promise to return soon -• Light vs darkness, with reference to Genesis 1:3 ("Let there be light") and Jesus as the light in the world -• Church service including singing, lighting candles, and passing them down the rows -• Invitation to sing praises of God in darkness -• Encouragement to connect with own church for Christmas gatherings -• Invitation to join the speaker's church on Christmas Day at 10 a.m. -• Receiving God's blessing before departure -• Pastor Kevin and elders come forward, candles are lit, and worship begins \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Christmas Evensong, December 21, 2025_transcript.txt b/Christmas Evensong, December 21, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 35493700c3dc2e12d2f61efb4916bb20db0f0874..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Christmas Evensong, December 21, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,594 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.00] Oh -[2.00 --> 4.00] Oh -[4.00 --> 6.00] Oh -[6.00 --> 8.00] Oh -[8.00 --> 10.00] Oh -[10.00 --> 12.00] Oh -[12.00 --> 14.00] Oh -[14.00 --> 16.00] Oh -[16.00 --> 18.00] Oh -[18.00 --> 20.00] Oh -[20.00 --> 22.00] Oh -[24.00 --> 26.00] Mary did you know -[26.00 --> 28.00] That your baby -[28.00 --> 30.00] Boy would one day -[30.00 --> 32.00] Walk on water -[32.00 --> 34.00] Mary did you -[34.00 --> 36.00] Know that your -[36.00 --> 38.00] Baby boy -[38.00 --> 40.00] Would save our sons -[40.00 --> 42.00] And daughters -[42.00 --> 44.00] Did you know -[44.00 --> 46.00] That your baby -[46.00 --> 48.00] Boy has come -[48.00 --> 50.00] To make you new -[50.00 --> 54.00] This child that you -[54.00 --> 56.00] Delivered -[56.00 --> 58.00] Will soon -[58.00 --> 60.00] Deliver you -[60.00 --> 62.00] Mary did you know -[62.00 --> 64.00] That your baby -[64.00 --> 66.00] Boy will give -[66.00 --> 68.00] Sight to a blind man -[68.00 --> 70.00] Mary did you know -[70.00 --> 72.00] That your baby -[72.00 --> 74.00] Boy will calm the storm -[74.00 --> 76.00] With his hands -[76.00 --> 78.00] Storm with his -[78.00 --> 80.00] And did you know -[80.00 --> 82.00] That your baby -[82.00 --> 84.00] Boy has walked -[84.00 --> 86.00] Where angels -[86.00 --> 88.00] Tried -[88.00 --> 90.00] When you kiss -[90.00 --> 92.00] Your little baby -[92.00 --> 94.00] You kiss -[94.00 --> 96.00] The face of God -[96.00 --> 98.00] Medal -[102.00 --> 104.00] Oh -[106.00 --> 108.00] Mary did you know -[108.00 --> 110.00] Mary did you know -[110.00 --> 112.00] Mary did you know -[112.00 --> 114.00] Mary did you know -[114.00 --> 116.00] Mary did you know -[116.00 --> 124.00] The blind will see, the deaf will hear, the dead will live again -[124.00 --> 135.00] The lame will leap, the dumb will speak, the praises of the Lamb -[135.00 --> 147.64] Mary, did you know that your baby boy is Lord of all creation? -[147.64 --> 156.94] Mary, did you know that your baby boy would one day rule the nation? -[156.94 --> 166.94] Do you know that your baby boy is Heaven's perfect Lamb? -[166.94 --> 176.94] That sleeping child you're holding, it's a great light -[176.94 --> 190.94] Mary, did you know? -[196.94 --> 200.94] Mary, did you know? -[206.94 --> 213.94] Mary, did you know? -[213.94 --> 218.94] Mary, did you know? -[218.94 --> 223.94] Mary, did you know? -[223.94 --> 243.94] Alleluia. -[243.94 --> 249.94] Alleluia. -[249.94 --> 253.94] Alleluia. -[253.94 --> 257.94] Christ the Savior of the world. -[257.94 --> 261.94] He has come. -[261.94 --> 265.94] Alleluia. -[265.94 --> 269.94] Alleluia. -[269.94 --> 273.94] Alleluia. -[273.94 --> 279.94] To the highest name of all. -[279.94 --> 285.94] Alleluia. -[285.94 --> 291.94] Alleluia. -[291.94 --> 293.94] Alleluia. -[293.94 --> 295.94] Alleluia. -[295.94 --> 297.94] Alleluia. -[297.94 --> 301.94] Alleluia. -[301.94 --> 307.94] Christ the Savior of the world. -[307.94 --> 309.94] He has come. -[309.94 --> 311.94] Alleluia. -[311.94 --> 313.94] Alleluia. -[313.94 --> 315.94] Alleluia. -[315.94 --> 317.94] Alleluia. -[317.94 --> 319.94] Alleluia. -[319.94 --> 321.94] To the highest name of all. -[321.94 --> 323.94] Alleluia. -[323.94 --> 325.94] Alleluia. -[325.94 --> 329.94] To the highest name of all. -[329.94 --> 331.94] Alleluia. -[331.94 --> 333.94] Alleluia. -[333.94 --> 335.94] Alleluia. -[335.94 --> 337.94] Alleluia. -[337.94 --> 339.94] Alleluia. -[339.94 --> 345.94] The heavens roar, the angels sing. -[345.94 --> 351.94] All glory to our God and King. -[351.94 --> 359.94] Alleluia. -[359.94 --> 361.94] Alleluia. -[361.94 --> 365.94] The heavens roar, the angels sing. -[365.94 --> 370.36] The angels sing -[370.36 --> 373.38] All glory to -[373.38 --> 376.40] Our God and King -[376.40 --> 378.76] O night divine -[378.76 --> 381.76] Forevermore -[382.42 --> 387.76] Alleluia -[387.76 --> 395.76] Alleluia -[395.94 --> 403.94] Alleluia -[403.94 --> 407.52] Christ the Savior -[407.52 --> 410.00] On the world -[410.00 --> 413.70] He has come -[413.70 --> 421.38] Alleluia -[421.38 --> 427.38] Alleluia -[427.38 --> 432.38] To the highest name of all -[432.38 --> 437.38] Alleluia -[437.38 --> 444.60] To the highest name of all -[444.60 --> 449.38] Alleluia -[449.38 --> 450.38] Alleluia -[450.38 --> 451.38] Alleluia -[451.38 --> 453.38] Alleluia -[453.38 --> 455.38] Alleluia -[455.38 --> 473.38] Good evening everyone and welcome to this Evensong Christmas service. Whether you're a member of this church or a guest visiting today, we are just so glad that you are here tonight. -[473.38 --> 481.38] Before we begin, I want to thank actually a whole bunch of people. But before I thank a whole bunch of people, I want to make one little announcement. -[481.38 --> 489.38] You were given a candle on the way in. That candle is, well at least we're planning on this, going to be used at the very end of the service. -[489.38 --> 496.38] So if you happen to have like a lighter in your pocket and we're planning on lighting that randomly throughout, we're just going to encourage you not to do that. -[496.38 --> 504.38] Hang on to those. We're going to use those at the very end. There will be instructions so you will be adequately informed as to what to do. -[504.38 --> 513.38] A few thank yous today already. Just I thought we'd start with this. This wonderful worship team behind me is going to be leading us in our worship tonight. -[513.38 --> 524.38] And they've been working very, very hard for the last couple weeks. And so I just want to thank Ken on the piano, Seth on the guitar, Kobe on the drums, Denise on the keys, Peter, Mel, Sarah and Ava who are going to be singing away. -[524.38 --> 533.38] And Andy on the mandolin and whatever other instruments he decides to pull out of his pocket. We're also very pleased to have some special guests joining us tonight. -[533.38 --> 543.38] Andy's friend Andy. There's two of them. Andy is also going to be here. He's on the guitar behind me as well, as well as Nadia and her daughter Olivia on the violin over here. -[543.38 --> 549.38] Later in the service, actually, the two Andys and Nadia and Olivia are going to be joined by Karen and Ivy. -[549.38 --> 557.38] And they're going to sing a song called Marvelous Light, which is a song that Andy wrote and was performed by this group when they were a band called the Pacific Salt. -[557.38 --> 562.38] And so we're looking forward to that as well. Also in the service, we're going to hear an octet. -[562.38 --> 572.38] They're going to sing What Child Is This? And that is going to be followed up with a whole number of Christmas songs tonight as well that we're all going to participate in singing. -[572.38 --> 576.38] So we're looking forward to all of that. Throughout the night, you're also going to hear readings. -[576.38 --> 582.38] We're going to hear the Christmas story as Scripture tells it. And the readings are going to be done by these three over here from Atang and Kezia and Alyssa. -[582.38 --> 586.38] So we thank you for that, too. And after the service is done, you're, of course, invited out. -[586.38 --> 590.38] We're going to have some fellowship and some hot chocolate out in the foyer. So do stick around for that. -[590.38 --> 597.38] My prayer tonight, our prayer for tonight, is that as we make our way through the Christmas story, this Christmas story is found in Scripture, -[597.38 --> 605.38] that we're all drawn a little closer to God and a little closer to what he has accomplished with this baby Savior of ours. -[605.38 --> 609.38] I usually do this at the top. I'm going to do this at the end. My name is Kevin Lobert. I'm one of the pastors here. -[609.38 --> 615.38] And now I'd love to invite you all up to receive God's greeting this evening. -[615.38 --> 617.38] So please do stand. -[617.38 --> 625.38] My hands are full. God's greeting. They're here. Hold this. Yeah, there we go. Thanks, Peter. -[625.38 --> 627.38] God's greeting comes to us from Revelation. -[627.38 --> 631.38] Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come, -[631.38 --> 636.38] and from the seven spirits that are before his throne, and by Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, -[636.38 --> 641.38] the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler, the kings of the earth. Amen. -[641.38 --> 661.38] This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, -[661.38 --> 666.38] but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. -[666.38 --> 672.38] Because Joseph, her husband, was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, -[672.38 --> 676.38] he had in mind to divorce her quietly. -[676.38 --> 681.38] But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, -[681.38 --> 686.38] Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, -[686.38 --> 689.38] because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. -[689.38 --> 692.38] She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, -[692.38 --> 695.38] because he will save his people from their sins. -[695.38 --> 700.38] All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet. -[700.38 --> 705.38] The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Emmanuel, -[705.38 --> 710.38] which means God with us. Matthew 1, 18-23. -[710.38 --> 738.38] Oh, the mercy our God has shown to those who sit in death's shadow. The sun on high pierced the night, born was the cornerstone. -[738.38 --> 738.88] Ginini is born. -[740.38 --> 741.38] How many years may find him? -[741.38 --> 742.38] Black since a yearebeest age, kabo constantly remain viver�만 grew up in world. -[742.38 --> 743.38] Billie.. -[743.38 --> 744.38] grandpaode.. -[744.38 --> 745.38] figure the miscar rue by addition to us. -[745.38 --> 746.38] gotta go. -[746.38 --> 747.38] whoever.. -[747.38 --> 748.38] khác.. -[749.38 --> 750.38] T одной.. -[750.38 --> 752.38] Father.. -[752.38 --> 754.38] shall you die... -[754.38 --> 755.38] Let'sende theé.. -[755.38 --> 757.38] Contre to him… -[757.38 --> 758.38] nano recherche. -[758.38 --> 760.38] Fran vi.. -[760.38 --> 761.38] Chr hope... -[761.38 --> 762.38] Time.. -[762.38 --> 763.38] Chapter.. -[763.38 --> 764.38] Lear... -[764.38 --> 769.14] Holy is His name -[769.14 --> 782.64] Oh, the freedom I save, the one -[782.64 --> 786.98] The yoke of sin has been broken -[786.98 --> 792.34] Once a slave, now but raised -[792.34 --> 796.94] No more condemnation -[796.94 --> 801.84] Unto us a son is given -[801.84 --> 806.56] Unto us a child is born -[806.56 --> 811.28] He who is mighty has done a great thing -[811.28 --> 816.08] Taken on flesh and come with good steam -[816.08 --> 820.76] Shattered the darkness and lifted our shame -[820.76 --> 825.36] Holy is His name -[825.36 --> 830.66] Holy is His name -[830.66 --> 837.08] Now my soul magnifies the Lord -[837.08 --> 838.56] I rejoice -[838.56 --> 843.16] In the God who saves I will trust -[843.16 --> 850.76] His unfailing love I will sing His praise in all my days -[850.76 --> 855.36] My soul magnifies the Lord -[855.36 --> 861.16] I rejoice in the God who saves I will trust -[861.16 --> 869.36] His unfailing love I will sing His praise in all my days -[869.36 --> 873.96] He who is mighty has done a great thing -[873.96 --> 879.16] Taken on flesh, conquered death's sting -[879.16 --> 883.36] Shattered the darkness and lifted our shame -[883.36 --> 887.96] Holy is His name -[887.96 --> 892.36] Holy is His name -[892.36 --> 916.34] Why did this baby need to be born? -[916.76 --> 918.68] Why is this event so important? -[918.68 --> 921.68] Why do we wait to celebrate Christ's birthday? -[922.08 --> 923.28] To answer these questions -[923.28 --> 925.48] We need to go back to the very beginning -[925.48 --> 930.68] In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth -[930.68 --> 933.94] Now the earth was formless and empty -[933.94 --> 936.06] Darkness was over the surface of the deep -[936.06 --> 938.76] And the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters -[938.76 --> 941.10] And God said let there be light -[941.10 --> 942.12] And there was light -[942.12 --> 944.14] God saw that the light was good -[944.14 --> 946.22] And He separated the light from the darkness -[946.22 --> 949.60] God called the light day -[949.60 --> 951.26] And the darkness He called night -[951.26 --> 952.54] And there was evening -[952.54 --> 954.16] And there was morning the next day -[954.16 --> 957.48] Then God said -[957.48 --> 959.68] Let us make mankind in our image -[959.68 --> 960.68] In our likeness -[960.68 --> 963.20] So that they may rule over the fish of the sea -[963.20 --> 964.42] And the birds of the sky -[964.42 --> 967.16] Over the livestock and all the wild animals -[967.16 --> 969.68] And over all the creatures that move along the ground -[969.68 --> 999.66] And the birds of the sea -[999.66 --> 1001.12] Or they pray -[1001.12 --> 1007.28] And o'er the fish of the sea -[1007.28 --> 1010.62] From the mother's sea -[1010.62 --> 1012.00] From the Switzerland -[1012.00 --> 1015.28] The backing of the fossil -[1015.28 --> 1020.82] From the heaven of the donde'sE -[1020.82 --> 1024.70] From the 끼 and the present day -[1024.70 --> 1027.06] From the deficit side of God's candle -[1027.06 --> 1057.04] Thank you. -[1057.06 --> 1087.04] Thank you. -[1087.06 --> 1117.04] Thank you. -[1117.06 --> 1130.76] Through the kisses of a friend's betrayal, he was lifted on a cruel cross. -[1130.76 --> 1136.76] He was punished for a world's transgressions. -[1137.76 --> 1142.76] He was suffering to save the lost. -[1142.76 --> 1154.76] He fights for breath, he fights for me. -[1154.76 --> 1167.14] Losing sinners from the claims of hell, and with a shout, our souls are free. -[1167.14 --> 1172.14] Let me be defeated by Emmanuel. -[1172.14 --> 1180.14] Now who am I? -[1180.14 --> 1182.14] Let me be defeated by Emmanuel. -[1182.14 --> 1186.14] Let me be defeated by Emmanuel. -[1187.14 --> 1188.14] I'm sorry. -[1188.14 --> 1189.14] Let me be defeated by Emmanuel. -[1189.14 --> 1191.14] I'm sorry. -[1191.14 --> 1196.14] To see His love, He lost me by me -[1196.14 --> 1202.14] To His love and love to be His Lord -[1202.14 --> 1209.14] To stand His heart and the mountainside -[1209.14 --> 1214.14] To stand His love and the glory in the name -[1214.14 --> 1220.14] To stand His love and the true love and the size -[1220.14 --> 1225.14] Give His glory to the name -[1225.14 --> 1232.14] And the skies will part as the trumpet sounds -[1232.14 --> 1237.14] Hope of heaven or the fear of hell -[1237.14 --> 1244.14] But the pride will run to His love and the love -[1244.14 --> 1249.14] Giving glory to Emmanuel -[1249.14 --> 1251.14] щ plains His love and the dead -[1253.14 --> 1257.14] Lord, elas pop reverence -[1258.14 --> 1259.14] Galvish whPOS -[1259.14 --> 1285.44] O come, all ye faithful, -[1285.44 --> 1291.74] joyful and triumphant. -[1291.74 --> 1303.44] O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem. -[1303.44 --> 1310.24] Come and behold Him, -[1310.90 --> 1315.82] born the King of angels. -[1315.82 --> 1333.12] O come, all ye faithful, -[1333.12 --> 1340.74] kitty and by the Lord. -[1349.54 --> 1354.86] The 온en quiet ع Riddle the King of angels. -[1355.12 --> 1360.68] Sing His الط را WILLIAMS, -[1360.68 --> 1371.22] The people who see us in the day of the night -[1371.22 --> 1377.68] Glory to God, -[1377.68 --> 1382.62] O the end of the night, -[1383.28 --> 1388.34] O God, and and and and and -[1388.34 --> 1394.18] Paret Its pasture były -[1394.18 --> 1399.08] Op on their�长's way -[1399.08 --> 1404.84] V Superman liless to be -[1404.84 --> 1434.82] Thank you. -[1434.84 --> 1464.82] Thank you. -[1464.84 --> 1470.94] Oh, come let us adore Him. -[1471.22 --> 1476.84] Oh, come let us adore Him. -[1476.84 --> 1478.84] Thank you. -[1478.84 --> 1482.84] Thank you. -[1482.84 --> 1484.84] Thank you. -[1484.84 --> 1486.84] Thank you. -[1486.84 --> 1488.84] Thank you. -[1488.84 --> 1490.84] Thank you. -[1490.84 --> 1492.84] Thank you. -[1492.84 --> 1494.84] Thank you. -[1494.84 --> 1496.84] Thank you. -[1496.84 --> 1498.84] Thank you. -[1498.84 --> 1500.84] Thank you. -[1500.84 --> 1502.84] Thank you. -[1502.84 --> 1504.84] Thank you. -[1504.84 --> 1506.84] Thank you. -[1506.84 --> 1508.84] Thank you. -[1508.84 --> 1510.84] Thank you. -[1510.84 --> 1512.84] Thank you. -[1512.84 --> 1518.84] Thank you. -[1518.84 --> 1520.84] Thank you. -[1520.84 --> 1522.84] Thank you. -[1522.84 --> 1541.84] For all that I shall hold is I, the Lord, the Lord. -[1541.84 --> 1564.16] His name shall be Wonderful Counselor, His name shall be Everlasting Father, His name shall be Christ of Peace, mighty God, His name shall be Emmanuel. -[1571.84 --> 1586.36] The Lord established His nation, yet His people kept turning away from Him. -[1586.94 --> 1590.78] God Himself was meant to be their ruler, but they demanded an earthly king. -[1590.78 --> 1594.74] So God gave Him one, a good and faithful king named David. -[1595.12 --> 1600.54] But as the years went on, many of the kings who followed David led with selfishness and greed. -[1600.98 --> 1606.90] Israel, God's own kingdom, slipped into indulgence, idolatry, and immorality. -[1609.98 --> 1614.82] Still the Lord was not finished. He continued moving towards the salvation of His creation. -[1614.92 --> 1622.30] He sent prophets to call the people back, to encourage them, and to most importantly, to proclaim the Savior that was on His way. -[1624.56 --> 1630.12] A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse, but from his roots a branch will bear fruit. -[1630.54 --> 1640.74] The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him, the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord. -[1640.86 --> 1642.72] And he will delight in the fear of the Lord. -[1644.50 --> 1656.22] For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders, and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. -[1656.22 --> 1661.62] A side of the Lord, county wird's treasure, but will be called for nous. -[1662.10 --> 1672.58] For to us a son of three years ago, ace titania in theologian teens,ips of am I stand after a child from the miracle and the flame staravam He deu? -[1672.58 --> 1673.58] Over to us a son of his daughters, a father of his own children and 1925, Venice the question of the hope. -[1673.58 --> 1674.78] In terms of the truth and righteousness, he would endlich with women. -[1674.78 --> 1676.72] It's been a cause of Glue, with a tremendous pain and잖아요 in the grace that travel to work. -[1676.72 --> 1678.78] Yet, he will always have to offer in the legacy that the portal to our children with wickedâ wielis. -[1678.78 --> 1680.16] After the theme of the years, and his great andバ prácted resourcessinging empire with the place, -[1680.16 --> 1680.58] and the grateful is given by them to us. -[1680.58 --> 1681.26] the prepare and the justification of the是什麼 by the Familien that puzzles, -[1681.26 --> 1681.88] a home of the peace of theust & или a partner of Jesus. -[1686.22 --> 1715.22] ¶¶ -[1716.22 --> 1721.22] ¶¶ -[1721.22 --> 1726.22] ¶¶ -[1726.22 --> 1731.22] ¶¶ -[1731.22 --> 1733.22] ¶¶ -[1733.22 --> 1738.22] ¶¶ -[1738.22 --> 1741.22] ¶¶ -[1741.22 --> 1745.22] ¶¶ -[1745.22 --> 1750.22] ¶¶ -[1750.22 --> 1755.22] ¶¶ -[1755.22 --> 1757.22] ¶¶ -[1757.22 --> 1758.22] ¶¶ -[1758.22 --> 1762.22] ¶¶ -[1762.22 --> 1764.22] ¶¶ -[1764.22 --> 1767.22] ¶¶ -[1767.22 --> 1777.22] ¶¶ -[1777.22 --> 1779.22] ¶¶ -[1779.22 --> 1780.22] ¶¶ -[1780.22 --> 1784.22] ¶¶ -[1784.22 --> 1794.22] ¶¶ -[1794.22 --> 1796.22] ¶¶ -[1796.22 --> 1797.22] ¶¶ -[1797.22 --> 1798.22] ¶¶ -[1798.22 --> 1801.22] ¶¶ -[1801.22 --> 1802.22] ¶¶ -[1802.22 --> 1811.22] ¶¶ -[1811.22 --> 1813.22] ¶¶ -[1813.22 --> 1814.22] ¶¶ -[1814.22 --> 1815.22] ¶¶ -[1815.22 --> 1818.22] ¶¶ -[1818.22 --> 1831.22] ¶¶ -[1831.22 --> 1833.22] ¶¶ -[1833.22 --> 1842.86] Radiant beams from thy holy face -[1842.86 --> 1851.18] With the God-dealing grace -[1851.18 --> 1858.14] Jesus, Lord, at thy birth -[1858.14 --> 1865.14] Jesus, Lord, at thy birth -[1865.14 --> 1876.14] Silent dawn, holy night -[1876.14 --> 1884.14] Heartless dawn, let my love -[1884.14 --> 1891.14] Holy, holy, holy, holy -[1891.14 --> 1901.14] Hallelujah, holy, holy -[1901.14 --> 1911.14] Hallelujah, Lord, at thy birth -[1911.14 --> 1916.14] Silent dawn, holy, holy -[1941.14 --> 1950.14] Amen -[1950.14 --> 1952.14] Amen -[1952.14 --> 1954.14] Amen -[1954.14 --> 1958.14] Amen -[1958.14 --> 1975.42] Our child is there to wait, to rest on every time is sleeping. -[1975.42 --> 1987.84] Who angels greet with anthems sweet, while shepherds watch our feeding. -[1989.34 --> 2001.20] This, this is Christ the King, whom shepherds guard and angels sing. -[2001.20 --> 2013.12] Haste, haste to bring him blood, the babe, the son of Mary. -[2014.72 --> 2026.24] What lies he in such cleanest faith, where ox and bass are feeding? -[2026.24 --> 2039.28] The Christian fear for sinners fear, the silent word is pleading. -[2040.02 --> 2051.06] Hail, spirit shall pierce him through, the cross be born for me and you. -[2051.06 --> 2062.68] Hail, hail, for word they pledge, the baked son of Mary. -[2064.50 --> 2076.20] So bring him incense, gold and fir, come peasant king to own him. -[2076.20 --> 2088.26] The King of kings salvation brings, let loving hearts enthrone him. -[2089.02 --> 2099.20] Praise, praise the Son on high, the Virgin sings her valvary. -[2099.20 --> 2111.88] Joy, joy, joy, for Christ is born, the babe, the son of Mary. -[2111.88 --> 2113.88] Amen. -[2131.14 --> 2134.40] And folding at last. -[2134.88 --> 2139.30] After countless years of waiting, God's promised savior was ready to be born. -[2139.30 --> 2147.36] So Joseph went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea to Bethlehem, the town of David, -[2147.58 --> 2152.66] because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, -[2152.80 --> 2157.38] who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, -[2157.38 --> 2163.32] the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped -[2163.32 --> 2167.76] him in cloths and placed him in a manger because there was no guest room available for them. -[2169.30 --> 2175.08] And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. -[2175.54 --> 2180.84] An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. -[2181.72 --> 2187.20] But the angel said to them, Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for -[2187.20 --> 2193.26] all the people. Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you. He is the Messiah, -[2193.26 --> 2199.14] the Lord. This will be a sign to you. You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. -[2199.30 --> 2207.28] Suddenly, a great company of the heavenly hosts appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, -[2207.90 --> 2213.08] Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests. -[2213.66 --> 2217.92] When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, -[2218.28 --> 2222.82] Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about. -[2222.82 --> 2229.10] So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph and the baby who was lying in the manger. -[2229.60 --> 2234.50] When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told to them about this child. -[2234.90 --> 2239.00] And all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds had said to them. -[2239.30 --> 2242.64] But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. -[2242.64 --> 2248.16] The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, -[2248.16 --> 2250.42] which were just as they had been told. -[2250.42 --> 2279.82] The shepherdsNS -[2279.82 --> 2305.38] Star of East, star in the night, climbing high, burning bright, -[2305.38 --> 2315.10] leading all the mountains, the mistletoe, wise men worships, the King of kings. -[2317.90 --> 2327.24] Shepherds keeping, watch by night, angel appearing, glorious and bright, -[2327.24 --> 2337.02] be not afraid that news I bring of Christ the Savior, the King of kings. -[2340.64 --> 2349.24] Hail, King of kings, glory, sing praise to the name, the truth and the story of my holy king. -[2349.24 --> 2356.46] Hail, King of kings, glory, sing praise to the name, the King of kings. -[2356.46 --> 2366.96] Hail, King of kings, glory, sing praise to the name, the King of kings. -[2366.96 --> 2384.68] Who gave the glory, sing praise to the name, the true Christmas story, -[2384.68 --> 2389.18] the true Christmas story of my holy king. -[2389.18 --> 2398.40] Who gave the glory, sing praise to the name, the true Christmas story of my holy king. -[2398.40 --> 2407.62] The King of kings, glory, sing praise to the name, the true Christmas story of my holy king. -[2407.62 --> 2416.84] Spirit of wisdom, the true Christmas story of my holy king. -[2416.84 --> 2420.84] Fear in the Lord is his delight. -[2420.84 --> 2429.84] Almighty God and Prince of peace, his glorious will never be. -[2429.84 --> 2459.82] Hail, King of kings, glory, sing praise to the name, the true Christmas story of my holy king. -[2459.84 --> 2473.34] The King of kings, glory, sing praise to the name, the true Christmas story of my holy king. -[2473.34 --> 2477.24] My throne is his holy king. -[2477.24 --> 2480.94] He said to each other, he had to say, Eugene, serve to the name, and the true promise of my holy king. -[2480.94 --> 2485.28] What marijuana do not back up to his Holly'清楚 will never be. -[2485.28 --> 2488.30] Paul, King of kings, glory, sing praise to the name, the case of my holy king. -[2488.30 --> 2494.48] Marvelous Night. -[2518.30 --> 2548.28] Marvelous Night. -[2548.30 --> 2578.28] Marvelous Night. -[2578.30 --> 2600.30] Marvelous Night. -[2600.30 --> 2611.06] "'Hon,igon, загu major, -[2611.06 --> 2618.30] "'The King Drink, bowl Holy King. -[2618.30 --> 2621.90] "'Inwill mills shall carryاد of God.'" -[2621.90 --> 2639.74] Visit le -[2639.76 --> 2644.90] ru -[2644.90 --> 2674.88] Thank you. -[2674.90 --> 2704.88] Thank you. -[2704.90 --> 2734.88] Thank you. -[2734.90 --> 2736.90] Thank you. -[2737.80 --> 2746.14] After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the East came to Jerusalem and asked, -[2746.70 --> 2752.34] Where is the one who has been born King of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him. -[2752.34 --> 2768.12] They were told to go and search carefully for the child. And so they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. -[2768.12 --> 2770.96] When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. -[2770.96 --> 2772.96] Thank you. -[2772.96 --> 2802.96] -[2802.96 --> 2804.96] Thank you. -[2804.96 --> 2806.96] Thank you. -[2806.96 --> 2808.96] Thank you. -[2808.96 --> 2809.96] Thank you. -[2809.96 --> 2811.96] Thank you. -[2811.96 --> 2813.96] Thank you. -[2813.96 --> 2814.96] Thank you. -[2814.96 --> 2816.96] Thank you. -[2816.96 --> 2817.96] Thank you. -[2817.96 --> 2818.96] Thank you. -[2818.96 --> 2820.96] Thank you. -[2820.96 --> 2821.96] Thank you. -[2821.96 --> 2822.96] Thank you. -[2822.96 --> 2824.96] Thank you. -[2824.96 --> 2825.96] Thank you. -[2825.96 --> 2826.96] Thank you. -[2826.96 --> 2827.96] Thank you. -[2827.96 --> 2837.96] Thank you. -[2837.96 --> 2867.94] Thank you. -[2867.96 --> 2897.94] Thank you. -[2897.96 --> 2927.94] Thank you. -[2927.96 --> 2957.94] Thank you. -[2957.96 --> 2959.96] Thank you. -[2959.96 --> 2961.96] Thank you. -[2961.96 --> 2963.96] Thank you. -[2963.96 --> 2965.96] Thank you. -[2965.96 --> 2967.96] Thank you. -[2995.96 --> 2997.96] Thank you. -[3025.96 --> 3027.96] Thank you. -[3055.96 --> 3057.96] Thank you. -[3085.96 --> 3087.96] Thank you. -[3087.96 --> 3089.96] Thank you. -[3089.96 --> 3119.94] Thank you. -[3119.96 --> 3124.96] Kyrie bees senken deurik -[3124.96 --> 3127.90] merch tulip -[3127.90 --> 3135.42] vrp -[3135.42 --> 3135.80] ek -[3135.80 --> 3137.54] ne -[3137.54 --> 3137.88] et -[3137.88 --> 3138.76] k -[3138.76 --> 3140.10] m -[3140.10 --> 3141.08] ú -[3141.08 --> 3141.66] ah -[3141.66 --> 3142.20] Strong -[3142.20 --> 3143.56] as -[3143.56 --> 3145.68] an -[3147.24 --> 3147.74] a -[3147.74 --> 3177.72] Oh, my God. -[3177.74 --> 3207.72] Oh, my God. -[3207.74 --> 3237.72] Oh, my God. -[3237.74 --> 3267.72] Oh, my God. -[3267.72 --> 3269.72] Oh, my God. -[3269.72 --> 3273.04] And so, like the Magi, we wait. -[3273.70 --> 3275.02] The signs are clear. -[3275.28 --> 3278.66] The star shines in the sky, and the birth of our Savior is come. -[3278.94 --> 3280.74] And yet, we still wait. -[3280.74 --> 3290.06] Even though we know that Christ has been born, and that his work is complete, and that his sacrifice is for sure, we still wait to celebrate his second coming. -[3290.60 --> 3293.46] Today, we look back to fuel our hope for the future. -[3293.46 --> 3296.34] We wait because, as Revelation tells us, -[3296.34 --> 3300.34] Behold, I am coming soon. -[3300.60 --> 3304.98] My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done. -[3304.98 --> 3311.86] I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end. -[3311.86 --> 3312.86] Amen. -[3312.86 --> 3313.86] Amen. -[3313.86 --> 3315.86] Amen. -[3315.86 --> 3317.86] Amen. -[3317.86 --> 3318.86] Amen. -[3318.86 --> 3319.86] Amen. -[3348.86 --> 3350.86] Amen. -[3378.86 --> 3380.86] Amen. -[3408.86 --> 3410.86] Amen. -[3438.86 --> 3440.86] Amen. -[3468.86 --> 3470.86] Amen. -[3498.86 --> 3500.86] Amen. -[3500.86 --> 3502.86] Amen. -[3502.86 --> 3504.86] Amen. -[3506.86 --> 3508.86] Amen. -[3522.86 --> 3526.86] Why don't you have a seat now? -[3528.86 --> 3532.98] For those of you who are guests here tonight, my name is Chris. -[3533.22 --> 3536.30] I'm one of the other pastors here at Langley Emanuel. -[3537.30 --> 3543.18] And before we close, I just want to recognize something about tonight, -[3543.44 --> 3548.02] about nights like tonight, and seasons like the one we find ourselves in. -[3550.62 --> 3556.00] It's dark out there, both literally and figuratively. -[3556.00 --> 3563.00] At the time of year where the darkness is the longest and the heaviest that it may feel, -[3563.90 --> 3570.26] and yet here we sing that the light of the world has come into his creation. -[3570.80 --> 3577.86] That God himself, the one who spoke, let there be light, has come into this world. -[3578.84 --> 3581.46] Light has pierced the darkness. -[3581.46 --> 3589.58] And so we have these little lights among us, and you were given a little light on your way in. -[3589.78 --> 3592.94] In just a moment, we are going to sing our closing song. -[3593.92 --> 3600.76] And before we sing, we're going to have a few elders come up to the front, elders from our church. -[3600.76 --> 3608.12] And then Pastor Kevin and I will each light our candles, and then we will pass that light to the elders. -[3608.12 --> 3611.64] And then the elders will go out and pass that light to you. -[3612.04 --> 3614.28] And then you pass it down the row. -[3614.48 --> 3618.82] And in that way, in this moment, the light gets a little bit brighter. -[3619.50 --> 3623.22] And then as we go, we carry that light with you. -[3623.22 --> 3630.16] Now, this is also just a symbol, and so when you get to the doors, please blow your candle out and give it to the person who is there. -[3631.64 --> 3634.82] We don't need flames running around in the foyer afterwards. -[3636.16 --> 3637.98] But here's what else we know. -[3637.98 --> 3645.76] Even as we bring light into the darkness, we do so in a particular way and for particular purposes. -[3645.76 --> 3657.04] I was reflecting with someone this week about a story from the Old Testament, a story of David, before he fights Goliath. -[3658.70 --> 3666.12] In 1 Samuel 16, he is in the court of Saul, who's being oppressed by an evil spirit. -[3666.72 --> 3672.44] There's a darkness on him, and David sings, and the spirit flees. -[3672.44 --> 3681.02] There's something about the church gathering to sing the praises of God that causes the darkness to flee. -[3682.20 --> 3691.52] There's something about the church that gathers to sing the praises of Jesus who enters the world in this time that causes the devil to tremble. -[3693.20 --> 3695.64] And that's why we sing in the darkness. -[3696.92 --> 3699.70] That's why we gather on nights like tonight. -[3699.70 --> 3707.28] And so, even as you go, go singing the praises of our good God. -[3707.58 --> 3711.06] Go also with an invitation to continue singing. -[3711.44 --> 3716.12] Now, if you're a member at another church, we want to encourage you to connect with your churches -[3716.12 --> 3720.16] and for whatever they're doing over the Christmas season, whether it's Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, -[3720.72 --> 3724.42] plug in and sing loudly at those gatherings together. -[3724.42 --> 3732.70] If you're looking for a place to gather on Christmas Day, we will be here at 10 a.m. to sing the glories of our good God. -[3732.84 --> 3734.48] And we invite you to join us for that. -[3735.44 --> 3739.24] But before we go, we're going to receive God's blessing. -[3739.96 --> 3741.44] And so I'm going to invite you to stand. -[3741.44 --> 3749.94] As you stand, I invite you to take a posture of receipt, knowing that it is God himself who meets us here in this place. -[3750.30 --> 3753.68] And that as we sing his praises, he fills us with his spirit. -[3753.92 --> 3761.56] As we stand on his word, he gives us a foundation in and from which to step into whatever comes next. -[3761.56 --> 3764.16] And he goes with us. -[3764.58 --> 3767.16] And so receive the blessing of our God. -[3767.24 --> 3772.48] After the blessing, I'm going to have Pastor Kevin come up and the elders who I spoke to beforehand to come up. -[3772.66 --> 3776.28] And then once we get the first candles lit, you guys may start us in singing. -[3777.34 --> 3778.40] The blessing of God. -[3780.68 --> 3783.24] God go before you to lead you. -[3784.38 --> 3786.84] God go behind you to protect you. -[3788.00 --> 3790.14] God go beneath you to support you. -[3790.14 --> 3793.58] God go beside you to befriend you. -[3794.32 --> 3796.36] Do not be afraid. -[3797.02 --> 3799.02] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[3799.14 --> 3800.60] Do not be afraid. -[3801.04 --> 3805.60] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[3806.18 --> 3808.38] All God's people said, amen. -[3820.40 --> 3823.30] God, let the blessing of the Lord. -[3823.38 --> 3826.14] Amen. -[3827.14 --> 3828.36] Amen. -[3828.60 --> 3829.14] Amen. -[3829.14 --> 3859.12] Thank you. -[3859.14 --> 3889.12] Thank you. -[3889.14 --> 3919.12] Thank you. -[3919.14 --> 3949.12] Thank you. -[3949.14 --> 3979.12] Thank you. -[3979.14 --> 4009.12] Thank you. -[4009.14 --> 4039.12] Thank you. -[4039.14 --> 4069.12] Thank you. diff --git a/Confusion, Chaos, and a Call to Worship (Sermon)_summary.txt b/Confusion, Chaos, and a Call to Worship (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 4e1eb4583f7ad45b4543198c8ca9e01a674d354a..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Confusion, Chaos, and a Call to Worship (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,26 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction to a new series on Habakkuk -• Reading and interpretation of Habakkuk 1:1-13 -• Addressing the problem of evil and suffering in relation to God's goodness and power -• Personal story of crisis of faith and spiritual depression -• Connection between the problem of evil and Habakkuk's experience -• Acknowledging that many people struggle with similar doubts and questions -• Habakkuk's struggle with evil in the world -• The problem of why evil exists -• God's sovereignty and reasons for all things, including evil -• Historical context: the prophet Habakkuk, Judah, and Babylon -• The background to Habakkuk's prophecy: Babylon's rise to power, defeat of Assyria, and conflict with Egypt -• Judah's history with Babylon: from allies to vassal state -• The betrayal felt by Judah towards Babylon -• The local concerns in Judah: corruption and abuse of religious leaders, the paralyzed law, and injustice -• Habakkuk's cry out to God amidst evil and suffering -• Habakkuk's reaction to the abuses of power and exploitation of the poor in his world -• The problem of evil and why God allows suffering and injustice to exist -• The limitation of human perspective and understanding of God's intentions -• The concept of sovereignty and control, with God being in charge of all history -• Humility and trusting that God can be God despite not knowing the reasons for suffering -• The Christian God's sovereignty and plan amidst human suffering -• Peter Kreeft's quote on the Christian God deliberately experiencing pain through Jesus Christ -• Christianity providing resources for facing suffering with hope and courage -• Trusting in God's goodness despite evil and injustice in the world -• Worship as a response to evil, doubts, and hardships, leading to rest for one's soul -• The importance of community in times of crisis and struggle \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Confusion, Chaos, and a Call to Worship (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/Confusion, Chaos, and a Call to Worship (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 70347d7a29ce75d7cd8ccbe630879fdad4dbe079..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Confusion, Chaos, and a Call to Worship (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,232 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 10.38] this morning in our worship we're gonna start a new series together we're gonna -[10.38 --> 20.94] spend the next few weeks looking at the book of Habakkuk Habakkuk Mr. Eric there's one B not -[20.94 --> 28.08] Habakkuk so we're gonna spend our time in Habakkuk and we're gonna read this morning the first 13 -[28.08 --> 34.26] verses and so really encourage you as always to open a Bible have that up on your phone whatever -[34.26 --> 39.92] the case may be it will also be on the screen but if you have a Bible or with your phone in hand you -[39.92 --> 48.38] can refer back as we go through I'm going to read starting at verse 1 through to verse 13. -[48.38 --> 60.80] The Oracle that Habakkuk the prophet received how long oh Lord must I call for help but you do not -[60.80 --> 68.86] listen or cry out to you violence but you do not save why do you make me look at injustice why do -[68.86 --> 74.98] you tolerate wrong destruction and violence are before me there is strife and conflict abounds -[74.98 --> 83.76] therefore the law is paralyzed and justice never prevails the wicked hem in the righteous so that -[83.76 --> 92.00] justice is perverted look at the nations and watch and be utterly amazed for I am going to do something -[92.00 --> 100.90] in your days that you would not believe even if I told you I am raising up the Babylonians that -[100.90 --> 107.48] are ruthless and impetuous people who sweep across the whole earth to seize dwelling places not their -[107.48 --> 113.86] own they are a feared and dreaded people they are a law unto themselves and promote their own honor -[113.86 --> 121.56] their horses are swifter than leopards fiercer than wolves at dusk their cavalry gallops headlong -[121.56 --> 130.40] their horsemen come from afar they fly like a vulture swooping to devour they all come bent on violence -[130.40 --> 138.64] their hordes advance like a desert wind and gather prisoners like sand they deride kings and scoff at -[138.64 --> 145.10] rulers they laugh at fortified cities they build earth and ramps and capture them then they sweep past -[145.10 --> 155.76] like the wind and go on guilty men whose own strength is their God oh Lord are you not from everlasting -[155.76 --> 164.60] my God my holy one we will not die oh Lord you have appointed them to execute judgment oh rock you have -[164.60 --> 174.96] ordained them to punish your eyes are too pure to look on evil you cannot tolerate wrong why then do you -[174.96 --> 185.28] tolerate the treacherous why are you silent while the wicked swallow up those more righteous than themselves -[185.28 --> 187.76] this is the word of the Lord -[187.76 --> 206.48] as we begin together this morning i am well aware of what our experience has been for the past year -[206.48 --> 215.76] and we are well aware of the unknown and the confusion and the chaos that exists in the midst of the right now -[215.76 --> 224.56] a series that we are beginning this morning i'm calling wrecked and worshiping and it comes out of a context -[224.56 --> 232.72] in which many of us are just feeling wrecked and weak and overwhelmed with everything that has been going on -[232.72 --> 243.12] now as we jump into this first know that you are not alone that we are all experiencing this together -[243.12 --> 250.16] and we all have these kinds of experiences and out of that we all ask the same sorts of questions and so -[250.16 --> 258.00] let's ask those questions today together i'll begin with a bit of a personal story -[260.00 --> 269.28] a number of years ago while i was still in seminary i had what you know i would call rightly i think a crisis -[269.28 --> 276.88] of faith i was in seminary and i was taking a graduate level class on post-enlightenment philosophy -[276.88 --> 283.60] and i was reading a lot of books and a lot of essays from people who were just opposed to orthodox -[283.60 --> 289.68] biblical christianity and these authors in their writing right would challenge the authority of the bible -[289.68 --> 297.44] they would attempt to kind of dismantle the claims of authority of faith and the rationality of faith and -[297.44 --> 303.76] they would challenge right from the very existence of god on the basis of reason or science or logic or -[303.76 --> 314.88] history or whatever the case may have been i was reading this all and unfortunately due to the busyness of -[314.88 --> 321.92] my schedule in school i didn't make time to read other things to read good things constructive things -[321.92 --> 333.36] devotional things helpful things and so i was eventually consumed by the chaos of this thinking -[333.36 --> 341.92] and thought and i began to slide and slide and slide and i slipped into a time that can only be called -[341.92 --> 349.68] spiritual depression right and maybe faith apathy and for a couple of months maybe even half a year -[349.68 --> 360.48] my friends and i would argue and debate and we would fight and i would push buttons and i would raise concerns -[360.48 --> 368.56] and i would make arguments against faith and christianity together and i was in seminary remember -[369.20 --> 374.24] and a good seminary at that it got dark in my heart -[374.24 --> 385.52] and i would challenge my friends and my professors and myself and how could god let this kind of thing -[385.52 --> 393.52] happen right how could god create a world in which he knew there would be sin right right down to the -[393.52 --> 400.08] sometimes more complicated questions of why is there no external evidence for the resurrection of jesus don't -[400.08 --> 405.28] you think that the annals of roman history would have recorded something as significant or important as that -[408.00 --> 413.20] really i was in deep and i was spiraling out of control -[415.28 --> 423.36] i suspect many of you if not all of us know what that's like right i was in seminary training to be a -[423.36 --> 428.88] minister of the word and i had these doubts i had this crisis of faith i had this spiritual depression -[428.88 --> 434.40] and if church leaders like me or future church leaders back then like me can face those kinds of -[434.40 --> 443.12] things surely everyone does i know that many of us had these sorts of struggles maybe you aren't sure -[443.12 --> 451.44] what to believe or if you believe or even if belief is possible maybe you're there right now maybe you're here -[451.44 --> 459.92] looking for answers maybe you know someone who's there right now maybe you have questions but you don't -[459.92 --> 469.92] know who to ask or how to ask them whatever the case may be i think we all know what it is to have a crisis of faith -[471.76 --> 479.20] now the sort of pinnacle of my crisis of faith or maybe we could say the deepest part of my crisis of faith -[479.20 --> 485.44] came down to one thing and that's what i now know to be called the problem of evil -[486.88 --> 492.72] right really simply if god was truly good and loving and all-powerful then he wouldn't let people -[492.72 --> 499.44] who love him go through these bad things right since good people go through evil things either -[499.44 --> 505.36] god isn't good or he isn't all-powerful in which case in either case he wouldn't be god -[505.36 --> 514.56] that's the question really that's the state of belief that we will address this morning that -[514.56 --> 522.24] habakkuk is finding himself in the middle of this is habakkuk's struggle it is our struggle it's really -[522.24 --> 526.24] every human person's struggle whether you have a religious answer to it or not -[526.24 --> 536.32] why is there evil in the world what i hope and it's my prayer that this morning we will see that -[536.32 --> 544.16] that god is bigger than our struggles with evil that evil has been decisively dealt with in history -[544.16 --> 554.32] and that for god to be god he must have his reasons for everything we face in life even the evil things -[554.32 --> 562.48] now to get there this morning we start with the back now let me set the stage for you with a little -[562.48 --> 567.76] bit of history and i'll try to do this quickly because i know not everybody loves history the way that i do -[569.20 --> 576.24] in actual fact we know very little about the prophet habakkuk right who he is and what he did as a prophet -[576.24 --> 582.64] whether he was in the official temple system as a prophet or if he was outside the official system as one -[582.64 --> 590.88] especially called by god but we can figure out when he roughly prophesied right habakkuk is a prophet in -[590.88 --> 601.20] judah which is the southern kingdom and it's around 600 to 610 bc and so it's near what we now call the -[601.20 --> 608.88] end of the first temple period right these are the last kings in israel and judah for those of us who -[608.88 --> 616.40] know the sort of bigger story of the drama of redemption we might say that this is near the beginning -[617.12 --> 625.12] of the exile period which started in 586 bc with the fall of jerusalem so what's happening on the global scale is -[625.12 --> 634.80] the babylonians are shifting the balance of power now we have a map that's going to appear on screen and that will -[634.80 --> 641.04] help you see what's going on and where it's happening as i tell the story and you see the map there those -[641.04 --> 647.68] circles and the legend down the side moves through in the manner in which i will tell the story one through -[647.68 --> 657.36] six i think it is so israel and then later the smaller judah have been allies with the babylonians -[657.36 --> 665.76] going back to when they were first called the chaldeans in 705 bc you have king hezekiah king -[665.76 --> 671.84] hezekiah this happens in the time of the prophet isaiah to draw some lines for you isaiah also prophet -[671.84 --> 678.88] prophesied about the exile that would come hezekiah who is king worked with the chaldeans to repel -[678.88 --> 685.44] the armies of one sennacherib as he marched through israel down towards jerusalem -[685.44 --> 693.28] now a century later the chaldeans now the sort of neo-babylonians right have defeated assyria who -[693.28 --> 700.24] had an empire in 612 with the fall of nineveh nineveh was the capital city of the assyrian empire -[701.52 --> 710.32] and in 609 bc the egyptians start marching their way east and north through the the crescent of the -[710.32 --> 717.20] around the mediterranean in a last ditch attempt to partner with the assyrians to defeat the -[717.20 --> 726.24] babylonians in the battle of haran but this time as the egyptians marched through king josiah of judah -[726.24 --> 732.24] would come with the armies of judah and he would attempt to stop the advancement of the egyptians -[732.24 --> 741.12] who were led by pharaoh neko the second now king josiah is killed in this battle at megiddo trying -[741.12 --> 749.60] to help their allies the babylonians in 605 you have the battle of carcamesh that happens on the -[749.60 --> 756.64] euphrates river and here the babylonians finally and decisively defeat the egyptians and send them back -[756.64 --> 765.76] to egypt now all around the region of syria and israel the babylonians have taken over and this -[765.76 --> 772.88] battle after this battle rather the babylonians that come in and annex judah they take control of the -[772.88 --> 780.64] region of judah and they start treating them as a hostile vassal state as you see backtracking just a -[780.64 --> 789.68] few years after josiah is killed in the battle at megiddo pharaoh neko the second left his armies in -[789.68 --> 797.36] the region as they continued on to go battle against the babylonians and he returned with a group back -[797.36 --> 804.08] to egypt and on his way through jerusalem returning back to egypt he deposed the new king who was the -[804.08 --> 813.20] younger son of josiah jehoah has and took him back to egypt as a prisoner and instead he installed jehoiakim -[813.20 --> 822.56] another son of josiah as a puppet king now jehoiakim agreed to and paid the levy that egypt imposed on -[822.56 --> 831.92] judah now jehoiakim gets very little on the pages of the bible but in second kings 23 verse 37 it says -[831.92 --> 841.04] that he did evil in the eyes of the lord just as his predecessors had done but still even with that -[841.04 --> 850.40] happening many in judah would have considered babylon's actions a betrayal because they had been historical -[850.40 --> 852.24] allies for a century -[852.24 --> 858.40] and so you can imagine how habakkuk feels -[860.88 --> 870.88] when the lord says i am raising up babylon to exercise my justice right part of the evil that -[870.88 --> 878.72] habakkuk is reacting to right that babylon betrayed them that's why he calls them a treacherous people in -[878.72 --> 886.96] verse 13 right and the word that's used there in hebrew can mean disloyal or betrayers right that's why -[888.00 --> 897.04] habakkuk feels so torn now this is sort of the global backdrop and if the map is still up we can take -[897.04 --> 903.36] that down this is sort of the global backdrop to what's going on right there's warfare and there's -[903.36 --> 911.04] evil everywhere and judah is caught up in the middle of it right they are dying and they're being taken -[911.04 --> 920.88] prisoner right evil is literally to the north and south and east and it's pressing in on them with vigor -[923.04 --> 930.16] but there's also a more local concern that's causing habakkuk to cry out to the lord -[930.16 --> 936.88] i've already mentioned two names that we can come back to here right king josiah and king jehoiakim -[938.00 --> 945.44] now josiah as king instituted a number of reforms in jerusalem and really brought the people back to -[945.44 --> 953.60] a more biblical faith and a more biblical practice of worship but before him and after him the religious -[953.60 --> 961.28] and political leadership are corrupt and even abusive right look at what habakkuk says in in verse 4 he -[961.28 --> 969.28] says the law is paralyzed and justice never prevails now that word translated paralyzed can mean numb -[970.08 --> 975.60] right like when your foot falls asleep and you try to stand only to find that you just collapse to the -[975.60 --> 983.52] floor and fall over right the rulers and rule of law have become numb to the plight of ordinary citizens -[985.68 --> 994.56] there's a general uh biblical scholarly consensus that habakkuk is reacting to the abuses of power -[994.56 --> 1001.28] that have further marginalized the poor and exploited the less privileged and we know from the rest of the -[1001.28 --> 1008.48] the bible that jehoiakim is accused of dishonest gain he has forced people into unpaid labor to build his -[1008.48 --> 1015.44] houses he's taxed people to pay the levy that the egyptians have imposed we know that jehoiakim is -[1015.44 --> 1021.76] implicated in the obstruction of justice in the shedding of innocent blood and in the murder of prophets -[1021.76 --> 1033.68] the point is evil and injustice are everywhere globally the babylonians have betrayed them and locally the -[1033.68 --> 1043.20] king has never looked out for them the moral order of habakkuk's world has been upended things aren't the way -[1043.20 --> 1051.12] they should be evil prevails over good injustice over justice death over life and habakkuk cries out and -[1051.12 --> 1060.88] says since god is good his world should be good too but in habakkuk's eyes it's not that's the problem -[1062.48 --> 1069.92] and like we said i'm gonna guess that that's not just habakkuk's problem right and in fact it's not just -[1069.92 --> 1078.32] an intellectual issue right a question to be answered right every single person who says they are a -[1078.32 --> 1085.92] christian or a theist really of any stripe has to wrestle with the question if god is god and god is -[1085.92 --> 1092.96] good why is there evil in the world but like i said it's not just an intellectual issue for us right -[1092.96 --> 1101.44] there are racial tensions and realities that beg the question why god there are issues of poverty and hunger -[1101.44 --> 1108.00] globally and locally that beg the question if you are good why is there so much bad right there are -[1108.00 --> 1114.48] issues of violence against women and children of issues of parents losing children of marriages -[1114.48 --> 1121.04] breaking up that beg the question that cause us to cry out like we began our worship this morning how long -[1121.04 --> 1132.96] oh lord we've got cancer and covid and countless others chronic diseases that rob us of life and the ability -[1132.96 --> 1142.00] to live things aren't the way they should be evil prevails over good injustice over justice life over death -[1142.00 --> 1148.24] and since god is good his world should be good too but in so many ways it's not -[1150.56 --> 1153.12] how long oh lord -[1156.56 --> 1165.68] now to start addressing this situation i want you to notice something carefully in the text -[1165.68 --> 1175.68] starting in verse 3 habakkuk says destruction and violence are before me there is strife and conflict -[1175.68 --> 1184.88] abounds therefore the law is paralyzed and justice never prevails and notice two things here right -[1185.28 --> 1194.32] habakkuk is making an assertion in these words right first because he sees violence and destruction and -[1194.32 --> 1202.48] strife and conflict that's why the law is paralyzed or numb and justice doesn't prevail right because of all -[1202.48 --> 1210.40] that he can see his conclusion is that god is absent or his goodness challenged but think carefully -[1210.40 --> 1217.60] with me right that's all he can see and in a sense it's all he sees -[1217.60 --> 1229.36] but we know that habakkuk doesn't see all right and it's really then from his limited perspective -[1229.36 --> 1234.80] that he ends up making these universal and absolute statements about the nature of god -[1235.92 --> 1241.20] right the person who raises the problem of evil as an argument against the existence of god and this -[1241.20 --> 1246.40] was me a number of years ago the person who raises the problem of evil as an argument against the existence -[1246.40 --> 1252.72] of god presumes that we have the right viewpoint from which to make those sorts of absolute kinds of -[1252.72 --> 1263.04] statements this is habakkuk's problem this was my problem this is our problem and what's more when you -[1263.04 --> 1272.96] say that you are presupposing that something true will be knowable experientially and empirically that it -[1272.96 --> 1279.44] will be knowable to all but that's just obviously not true right just because we doesn't we can't -[1279.44 --> 1286.96] understand it doesn't mean god does not have good intentions for allowing such things to happen or even -[1286.96 --> 1296.96] using them like he uses the babylonians now of course we can't always prove we can't always even know -[1296.96 --> 1304.24] the reasons that god has or his ways right and i'm not trying to prove that all i want to say is that -[1304.24 --> 1312.32] he has them and the question really that remains for me is what takes more faith right does it take -[1312.32 --> 1318.48] more faith to believe that god has a purpose for all the events to that occur or does it take more faith -[1318.48 --> 1323.36] to believe that there is no purpose there is no god there is no director of history and all of it -[1323.36 --> 1327.76] stumbles blindly forward or to me the answer is obvious -[1330.64 --> 1341.68] in actual fact for any of our suffering to make any sense god has to be sovereignly in control of all of -[1341.68 --> 1349.92] history right if he isn't none of my suffering makes sense or has any purpose or greater good or greater -[1349.92 --> 1357.60] glory in the purposes of god and i can never know which may or which may not be for his glory and his -[1357.60 --> 1365.36] purpose but if he is sovereignly in control of everything then everything is for his purpose -[1365.36 --> 1376.32] and if god isn't in control that's actually what's truly heartbreaking and the second thing then to -[1376.32 --> 1387.60] see from habakkuk comes when he says justice never prevails never now that's a really strong word right -[1387.60 --> 1395.12] when we struggle or face suffering or challenging situations right it is individual human nature to -[1395.36 --> 1402.40] um exaggerate or to hyperbolize right my kids even do this or mr eric even does this right and says -[1402.40 --> 1411.28] this is the worst it's just a mouse in your car the worst but that's what we do right we make things out -[1411.28 --> 1418.32] to be big and huge and universal and look i'm not trying to be unsympathetic right and i don't want to -[1419.20 --> 1424.32] diminish or minimize the hardships and struggles that we face -[1425.52 --> 1434.80] and i'll concede that that even in that moment that may be the worst for you that may be the hardest -[1434.80 --> 1444.64] thing you have ever faced but is it the absolute right does justice never prevail when justice isn't -[1444.64 --> 1456.00] prevailing but you catch the difference that we're making now look and here's what it comes down to -[1458.00 --> 1464.80] will we have enough humility to let god be god -[1464.80 --> 1472.96] now let me be really clear again right we may never know the reasons that god does something or -[1472.96 --> 1480.00] doesn't do other things or permit some things to happen all we can do in faith is trust and believe -[1480.00 --> 1489.36] that god is god and that he has his glorious reasons i love the words of the christian philosopher -[1489.36 --> 1498.08] named peter kreeft he says this he says the christian god has come to earth to deliberately put himself -[1498.64 --> 1506.00] on the hook of human suffering let me be clear on the hook of human suffering not for human suffering -[1506.00 --> 1513.28] he's not taking responsibility for it he is living in it on the cross in jesus christ kreeft continues -[1513.28 --> 1521.52] god experienced the greatest depths of pain therefore though christianity does not provide all the -[1521.52 --> 1529.12] reasons for each experience of pain it provides deep resources for actually facing suffering with hope -[1529.12 --> 1538.72] and courage rather than with bitterness and despair end quote because jesus came and lived the life of -[1538.72 --> 1547.20] perfect righteousness and died the death that is my penalty for sin i can face tomorrow because this -[1547.20 --> 1555.84] is my father's world and he has laid its foundations and controls every aspect of it because he has made all -[1555.84 --> 1566.80] that is fair i can live today though he slay me i will yet praise him -[1569.76 --> 1576.32] here's where we will end this morning and in a few weeks pastor kevin is going to preach on this text -[1576.32 --> 1580.88] explicitly and so i'm not going to steal his thunder now but if your bibles are open flip over to chapter -[1580.88 --> 1591.20] three and look at verse 17 chapter 3 verse 17 habakkuk writes though the fig tree does not bud and there -[1591.20 --> 1598.56] are no grapes on the vines though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food though there are -[1598.56 --> 1605.12] no sheep in the pen no cattle in the stalls in other words though nothing is the way it's supposed to be -[1605.12 --> 1611.60] though there isn't any prosperity and only hardship and suffering yet habakkuk says i will rejoice in the -[1611.60 --> 1622.16] lord i will be joyful in god my savior the sovereign lord is my strength he makes my feet like the feet of -[1622.16 --> 1633.84] a deer and he enables me to go to the heights what is the antidote to our experience of the problem -[1633.84 --> 1640.32] of evil what is the antidote to those times and places where our belief in god is challenged because -[1640.32 --> 1654.08] of the evil and injustice we see in the world worship worship right we may be wrecked we may be facing -[1654.08 --> 1662.64] trials of all kinds right we live in a time of confusion and chaos but god is calling us to worship -[1663.84 --> 1684.80] the glory of god worship is crying out how long worship is lament worship is seething prayers calling for god's justice -[1684.80 --> 1691.20] worship is tears at the brokenness we are in the midst of -[1691.20 --> 1704.72] but instead of unbelief in response to evil imagine what your life imagine what our life together imagine -[1704.72 --> 1712.96] what our world would look like if instead of unbelief in response to evil instead of apathy instead of fear -[1712.96 --> 1724.80] fear instead what if we worshiped i promise you when doubts and hardships come and they will -[1726.88 --> 1734.56] and if when they do you worship more and not less truly worshiped right in spirit and in truth in song -[1734.56 --> 1744.88] and in word and in sacrament if you worship when you are wrecked you will find rest for your souls because you -[1744.88 --> 1748.24] will be found by jesus -[1750.32 --> 1752.48] that is the point -[1754.48 --> 1763.20] that is why we are called to worship in the midst of confusion and chaos that is the legacy of habakkuk for us -[1763.76 --> 1766.00] today i pray -[1768.48 --> 1777.28] that you know that story of faith and i pray that when your faith is broken and you can't do it that -[1777.28 --> 1779.60] there are people in your life who will lift you up -[1782.00 --> 1782.80] and if there aren't -[1784.80 --> 1790.48] would you let me be that person if there aren't would you let someone from church one of our elders or a -[1790.48 --> 1794.88] small group member or a community group member someone whom you know from this place would you let us -[1794.88 --> 1800.08] be that for you because that is the strength of christian community -[1800.08 --> 1805.36] alone we might stay -[1805.36 --> 1806.40] alone we might stay wrecked -[1806.40 --> 1808.00] but together -[1808.00 --> 1809.92] we can worship -[1810.96 --> 1811.84] let's pray together -[1811.84 --> 1818.72] lord our god we come to you -[1818.72 --> 1825.84] in the midst of the chaos of our lives from the midst of the confusion we may be facing now we come to you -[1825.84 --> 1827.84] to worship to sing your praises -[1829.04 --> 1836.24] we rest god on your sovereign rule on your promise to to guide history towards your purpose and -[1836.24 --> 1837.68] the glory of your name -[1837.68 --> 1847.52] no matter what we face though you may slay us we yet praise you -[1847.52 --> 1861.52] in our heart of hearts today may we sing your praise in jesus name amen -[1861.52 --> 1865.52] you diff --git a/Connecting With God (Sermon)_summary.txt b/Connecting With God (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 7c9605789fe36d67c5be03e61fa8d2d8e4c7c5ad..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Connecting With God (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,45 +0,0 @@ -• The speaker discusses the book of James and its emphasis on a fully engaged faith. -• Scholars debate whether James is referring to faith or works, but the correct interpretation is that they are intertwined. -• An all-in faith requires a deep connection with God, and losing this connection can cause faith to fade. -• A German newspaper tested the theory that you can be connected to anyone in six social associations by tracing connections between people. -• The speaker uses this example to illustrate how many people rely on easy social associations rather than genuine connection with God. -• James' letter concludes with two ways to stay connected to God: living in the light of eternity and understanding how money, wealth, and material possessions can hinder or help one's relationship with God. -• The book of James offers encouragement for those facing trial and hardship. -• Trials and hardships can be considered pure joy as they strengthen faith through perseverance. -• Connection to God is sustained by hope in Christ's return, not circumstances. -• People who think they're in control of their lives are not connected to God. -• Making plans without considering God or seeking His will is warned against. -• James warns the wealthy of coming judgment for their mistreatment of workers and the oppressed -• The condemnation is not solely aimed at the rich, but to create a background for the real point: living in light of eternity -• Enduring hardship and oppression is possible when viewed through the lens of eternity -• God's sovereignty and ultimate justice are emphasized as reminders that one does not own their life or control outcomes -• Living in light of eternity solidifies connection with God, regardless of circumstances -• Francis Chan's illustration of one inch of life in the midst of eternity -• The importance of living in light of eternity, rather than just focusing on one's short lifespan -• Being rooted in connection to God through prayer and learning to live in the context of prayer -• James' instructions for prayer in times of trouble or sickness, including calling for elders to pray over them -• The effectiveness of prayer, as seen in Jesus' teaching to ask and receive -• A critique of the scientific method's limitations in understanding reality, suggesting that it assumes only what can be proven is real. -• The concept of a closed universe and the struggle to understand prayer's effectiveness -• James' reminders on the power of prayer in his letter, specifically that God listens and responds to our prayers -• Prayer is effective not because we get the outcome we want, but because it connects us with God -• Wrong motives for praying, such as seeking pleasure or control, can lead to ineffective prayer -• Connection to God is rooted in learning to be connected through prayer -• Prayer draws us into the presence of God and should not be taken for granted -• Confessing sins to God in prayer is crucial, but James also emphasizes confessing sins to one another -• Public confession can be superficial; individual confession is necessary for true connection with God -• God's forgiveness and mercy are available when we live in the context of prayer -• The speaker describes a recording issue with an overexposed image, making it difficult to see the bridge. -• A living bridge in Meghalaya, India is mentioned as a better illustration of James chapter 5. -• The speaker explains that these living bridges are built using ropes and roots, and require maintenance to prevent erosion from heavy rainfall. -• The comparison is made between building connections with God and building living bridges, highlighting the need for stability and resilience in both cases. -• The speaker reflects on how people often struggle to maintain their connection with God when faced with hardships or trials. -• A natural tree was discovered in India with the ability to train its roots to cross a stream and be planted on the other side, allowing for the creation of a path. -• This process illustrates the concept of connection between God as described by James, requiring a lifetime of learning to live in the light of eternity and in the context of prayer. -• Establishing roots of learning takes time and may involve stumbling or setbacks, but ultimately leads to a firm foundation that can grow into a web-like connection with God. -• The importance of living with the assurance that God is always present -• Praying to thank God for being a God who hears and listens to prayers -• Recognizing God's sovereignty over the universe from creation to eternity -• Asking God to teach what it means to live in the light of eternity and be connected through prayer -• Confessing the tendency to give up easily and asking God to restore, renew, and draw them closer -• Seeking to proclaim God's goodness, let His light shine, and announce His kingdom \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Connecting With God (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/Connecting With God (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 1b282858d6e78b82eb26266fd261ae6c1cdf7e80..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Connecting With God (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1085 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 3.90] Well, good morning again. -[4.78 --> 5.86] It's good to be with you. -[6.94 --> 9.06] Over the summer at New Life, -[9.16 --> 11.46] we spent some time in the letter of James. -[11.72 --> 13.12] And so this morning, -[13.32 --> 14.90] I want to share with you -[14.90 --> 18.08] some of the exploration we did -[18.08 --> 19.60] in the letter of James -[19.60 --> 20.70] in the back of the New Testament. -[23.88 --> 25.12] In that letter, -[25.12 --> 30.08] James emphasizes a fully engaged faith. -[30.18 --> 30.94] A lot of times, -[32.00 --> 34.02] scholars debate -[34.02 --> 36.00] whether James is talking about faith -[36.00 --> 37.94] or whether he's talking about works. -[38.16 --> 41.24] But really, James is putting the two together. -[41.78 --> 47.14] And he wants us to live out our faith -[47.14 --> 49.36] in every aspect of our lives. -[49.42 --> 51.40] And so we called the series All In. -[51.40 --> 57.02] That when we say we profess Jesus as our Savior, -[57.32 --> 59.92] it has to be an all-in faith. -[61.46 --> 64.32] But an all-in faith requires -[64.32 --> 66.90] a deep connection with God. -[68.32 --> 71.70] Otherwise, faith just gradually fades. -[71.80 --> 73.34] And I think that's one of the dangers -[73.34 --> 75.54] in this pandemic situation -[75.54 --> 77.06] that we find ourselves in, -[77.14 --> 79.40] that when we lose connection, -[79.40 --> 82.02] faith fades. -[85.24 --> 88.22] Perhaps you've heard of the theory -[88.22 --> 89.98] that you can be connected -[89.98 --> 92.22] to anybody on this planet -[92.22 --> 95.46] by six social associations. -[95.70 --> 96.54] You ever heard of that theory? -[97.82 --> 99.28] By six steps, -[99.46 --> 102.56] you could connect with anybody, -[102.68 --> 103.72] even across the world, -[103.86 --> 105.02] somebody you don't even know. -[105.02 --> 107.78] So some time ago, -[107.96 --> 111.16] a German newspaper wanted to test that theory. -[112.74 --> 116.16] So they took a fellow by the name of Salah Bengali. -[116.68 --> 119.32] He was an Iraqi immigrant living in Germany -[119.32 --> 120.78] selling falafels. -[122.38 --> 124.94] But Salah Bengali wanted to be connected -[124.94 --> 126.42] to Marlon Brando. -[126.54 --> 127.66] So the newspaper said, -[127.76 --> 129.16] all right, we'll connect you. -[129.16 --> 131.14] And they did. -[131.88 --> 135.10] And they did it in six social steps. -[135.28 --> 135.98] Here's how it went. -[137.38 --> 140.70] Salah Bengali had a friend in California -[140.70 --> 144.20] who works in the same company as Ken Carson. -[144.86 --> 148.16] Ken Carson was the boyfriend of Michelle Bevan. -[149.06 --> 151.52] Michelle Bevan was the sorority sister -[151.52 --> 152.82] to Christina Kutzer. -[153.34 --> 156.70] Christina Kutzer was the daughter of Patrick Palmer, -[156.70 --> 159.30] the producer of Don Juan DeMarco, -[159.42 --> 162.62] the movie in which Marlon Brando starred. -[164.02 --> 165.46] In six steps, -[166.24 --> 168.02] Salah Bengali, Iraqi immigrant, -[168.32 --> 170.42] was connected to Marlon Brando. -[171.70 --> 174.72] Unfortunately, Marlon Brando never returned -[174.72 --> 176.80] any of Salah Bengali's calls. -[178.10 --> 179.70] Now, you might understand that -[179.70 --> 182.34] because all of these social associations -[182.34 --> 185.20] seem rather flimsy, in fact. -[185.20 --> 187.66] And so you go, well, that's not surprising. -[187.92 --> 188.26] Why? -[188.82 --> 191.38] Why would Marlon Brando pay attention? -[192.66 --> 194.86] And yet, a lot of times, -[195.22 --> 199.86] that's how we depend on our connection to God. -[200.16 --> 203.24] Simply by easy social associations. -[204.12 --> 206.12] I mean, going to church can even be -[206.12 --> 208.98] that kind of easy social association. -[209.22 --> 210.22] Am I connected to God? -[210.36 --> 211.72] Yeah, I went to church on Sunday. -[211.72 --> 215.72] Or, I'm connected to God. -[216.12 --> 218.30] I watched the service on TV. -[221.50 --> 223.14] In chapter 5, -[223.52 --> 224.78] James offers, -[225.10 --> 226.68] at the conclusion of his letter, -[227.40 --> 229.76] James, after instructing the people -[229.76 --> 232.48] on integrating their faith -[232.48 --> 235.20] with the entirety of their lives, -[235.20 --> 237.62] then at the end of his letter, -[238.00 --> 241.20] James concludes with two ways -[241.20 --> 244.44] in which we need to stay connected to God. -[244.58 --> 248.58] And those two ways serve as roots -[248.58 --> 252.24] that build a bridge to God. -[252.24 --> 256.90] The first that James talks about -[256.90 --> 260.68] is learning to live in the light of eternity. -[263.02 --> 265.70] And so James writes, -[266.74 --> 268.18] at the end of his letter, -[268.84 --> 270.82] James chapter 5, verse 7 and 8, -[270.82 --> 297.62] It's amazing encouragement, really. -[297.62 --> 302.08] Amazing encouragement even for us in this time. -[302.76 --> 304.58] The Christians to whom James was writing -[304.58 --> 308.08] were confronting and facing -[308.08 --> 310.18] a lot of trial and hardship. -[312.98 --> 316.64] And so we find ourselves in new circumstances as well -[316.64 --> 317.18] that we say, -[317.34 --> 319.72] Wow, life hasn't been this difficult for us -[319.72 --> 321.62] in a long time, or if ever. -[321.62 --> 324.64] And in a sense, -[325.06 --> 326.92] what James is doing here -[326.92 --> 328.44] at the end of his letter -[328.44 --> 330.64] is returning to the beginning of his letter -[330.64 --> 332.84] where he makes this outrageous statement. -[332.98 --> 334.42] This is how he begins his letter. -[334.54 --> 334.94] He says, -[335.58 --> 337.38] Consider it pure joy, -[337.46 --> 338.54] my brothers and sisters, -[340.18 --> 342.60] whenever you face trials of many kinds. -[343.26 --> 344.38] Whatever we're facing, -[345.16 --> 346.92] consider it pure joy -[346.92 --> 350.30] because it strengthens our faith -[350.30 --> 352.20] through that perseverance -[352.20 --> 353.28] that is required, -[353.50 --> 357.24] that kind of prevailing with God -[357.24 --> 358.98] to pursue faith. -[362.18 --> 364.56] Our connection with God -[364.56 --> 366.98] is sustained then -[366.98 --> 369.40] not by our circumstances, -[370.04 --> 372.02] which is why James can say, -[372.22 --> 373.66] consider it pure joy -[373.66 --> 375.10] in the midst of any hardship -[375.10 --> 376.36] that you face. -[377.78 --> 380.02] But our connection to God -[380.02 --> 381.54] is sustained by the hope -[381.54 --> 382.30] that we have -[382.30 --> 383.98] in Christ's return. -[384.16 --> 384.92] Be patient. -[385.42 --> 386.84] The Lord is coming back. -[389.02 --> 391.30] And that's when He will make all things new -[391.30 --> 393.34] and make all things right. -[394.86 --> 396.54] And that's the view of eternity -[396.54 --> 397.60] that we profess. -[399.26 --> 400.98] And it's contrasted in James -[400.98 --> 403.02] with two other scenarios -[403.02 --> 404.80] that James presents -[404.80 --> 406.32] to help us understand -[406.32 --> 407.10] the importance -[407.10 --> 408.90] of learning to live -[408.90 --> 410.64] in the light of eternity. -[411.24 --> 412.18] The first scenario -[412.18 --> 414.26] is back in chapter 4, -[414.32 --> 416.10] at the end of chapter 4, in fact, -[417.08 --> 418.66] where he characterizes -[418.66 --> 420.24] people who make plans -[420.24 --> 421.34] assuming they're in control. -[421.60 --> 422.96] And James, I'm warning you, -[423.06 --> 424.00] James hits hard. -[424.38 --> 425.42] So this is what he says. -[426.44 --> 427.92] Now listen, you who say -[427.92 --> 429.00] today or tomorrow -[429.00 --> 430.48] we'll go to this or that city -[430.48 --> 431.60] and spend a year here, -[431.60 --> 433.12] carry on business -[433.12 --> 434.26] and make money there. -[434.38 --> 435.72] Why, you don't even know -[435.72 --> 437.60] what will happen tomorrow. -[437.80 --> 438.60] What is your life? -[438.76 --> 440.20] You are a mist -[440.20 --> 442.12] that appears for a little while -[442.12 --> 442.96] and then vanishes. -[443.26 --> 444.92] Instead, you ought to say, -[445.38 --> 446.46] if it is the Lord's will, -[446.60 --> 448.38] we'll live and do this or that. -[453.38 --> 454.88] James is addressing people -[454.88 --> 456.86] who thought that they had life -[456.86 --> 458.00] all under control, -[458.00 --> 459.74] that they were living life -[459.74 --> 461.14] on their own. -[461.60 --> 463.16] And James' point is, -[463.56 --> 466.14] you cannot stay connected to God -[466.14 --> 468.98] if you think you own your life. -[471.76 --> 473.00] It's like this. -[475.10 --> 478.74] Imagine that we could enjoy -[478.74 --> 480.26] international travel again. -[480.26 --> 483.46] And I get so excited about this -[483.46 --> 485.88] that I spend just a ton of money -[485.88 --> 488.58] on planning a great vacation -[488.58 --> 489.56] for my wife and I. -[490.14 --> 493.50] And I plan this thing out beautifully, -[493.72 --> 494.26] which is funny -[494.26 --> 495.34] because I don't plan anything. -[495.60 --> 499.10] But I plan this amazing vacation. -[499.30 --> 500.86] It's going to be a great getaway. -[501.06 --> 502.44] And on the morning of our departure, -[502.62 --> 504.18] I get up, I jump out, -[504.44 --> 505.56] and I say to my wife, -[505.62 --> 506.18] are you ready? -[506.28 --> 506.84] This is going to be -[506.84 --> 508.22] the best vacation ever. -[508.22 --> 508.62] Ever. -[509.02 --> 511.26] And she looks at me stunned -[511.26 --> 513.04] because she doesn't know -[513.04 --> 513.64] anything about it -[513.64 --> 514.72] because I never told her. -[515.26 --> 516.96] And she is offended -[516.96 --> 518.76] that I never consulted with her. -[520.46 --> 521.98] And then I'm offended -[521.98 --> 524.00] because she doesn't want -[524.00 --> 525.40] to bless my plans. -[527.50 --> 528.44] Now, honest, -[528.62 --> 529.72] that's just a purely -[529.72 --> 530.98] hypothetical situation. -[532.32 --> 534.88] But that's sometimes -[534.88 --> 537.98] how we interact with God, -[538.04 --> 538.48] isn't it? -[540.08 --> 541.92] That we make all of our plans. -[542.04 --> 543.28] We think we're in control -[543.28 --> 544.30] of our lives. -[544.52 --> 546.90] And then we fire up a prayer to God -[546.90 --> 548.26] and we wonder why -[548.26 --> 549.62] He doesn't bless our plans. -[551.06 --> 552.20] Because we've not been -[552.20 --> 553.28] connected to Him. -[553.28 --> 559.60] So that's the first scenario -[559.60 --> 562.08] that James warns against. -[562.98 --> 564.72] You are not in control -[564.72 --> 565.38] of your life. -[565.54 --> 566.54] Learn to live -[566.54 --> 568.46] in the light of eternity. -[568.74 --> 569.84] The second scenario -[569.84 --> 570.64] he presents -[570.64 --> 571.92] immediately follows that -[571.92 --> 573.44] at the beginning of chapter 5 -[573.44 --> 574.80] where he writes this. -[574.92 --> 575.62] Now listen. -[575.86 --> 577.18] So same phrase again -[577.18 --> 578.78] as the first scenario. -[578.94 --> 579.54] Now listen, -[579.68 --> 580.20] you who say. -[580.74 --> 581.76] Chapter 5, verse 1. -[581.76 --> 583.48] Now listen, you rich people. -[583.80 --> 584.64] Weep and wail -[584.64 --> 585.60] because of the misery -[585.60 --> 586.74] that is coming on you. -[587.56 --> 587.96] Be careful. -[588.18 --> 588.84] He hits hard. -[589.34 --> 590.52] Your wealth has rotted. -[590.70 --> 591.60] Your moths have eaten -[591.60 --> 592.32] your clothes. -[593.08 --> 594.08] Your gold and silver -[594.08 --> 594.82] are corroded. -[596.16 --> 597.20] Their corrosion -[597.20 --> 598.64] will testify against you. -[598.76 --> 600.04] Eat your flesh like fire. -[600.20 --> 601.28] You've hoarded wealth -[601.28 --> 602.20] in the last days. -[602.36 --> 603.12] Look, the wages -[603.12 --> 604.28] that you failed to pay -[604.28 --> 604.86] the workers -[604.86 --> 606.34] who moved your fields -[606.34 --> 607.76] are crying out against you. -[608.02 --> 609.70] The cries of the harvesters -[609.70 --> 610.56] have reached the ears -[610.56 --> 611.38] of the Lord Almighty. -[611.38 --> 612.80] You've lived on earth -[612.80 --> 614.54] in luxury and self-indulgence. -[614.68 --> 615.72] You've fattened yourselves -[615.72 --> 616.70] in the day of slaughter. -[617.06 --> 617.74] You've condemned -[617.74 --> 618.52] and murdered -[618.52 --> 619.70] the innocent one -[619.70 --> 621.22] who was not opposing you. -[623.14 --> 624.68] And here James characterizes -[624.68 --> 626.46] people who oppress others -[626.46 --> 628.06] for their own gain. -[629.22 --> 630.38] And I suspect that -[630.38 --> 631.78] James isn't necessarily -[631.78 --> 632.94] targeting the people -[632.94 --> 634.54] to whom he's actually writing -[634.54 --> 636.06] because they likely -[636.06 --> 637.14] weren't the rich -[637.14 --> 638.38] and wealthy people. -[638.38 --> 640.80] But the condemnation -[640.80 --> 641.66] of such people, -[641.76 --> 642.88] the judgment upon -[642.88 --> 643.74] such people, -[644.74 --> 645.92] isn't so much -[645.92 --> 647.38] to point them out -[647.38 --> 648.88] as it is to create -[648.88 --> 649.54] a background -[649.54 --> 650.88] for the real point. -[650.96 --> 651.72] And the real point -[651.72 --> 653.00] that James is trying to make -[653.00 --> 654.20] is that with a view -[654.20 --> 655.02] to eternity, -[655.44 --> 656.72] you not only can endure -[656.72 --> 657.32] hardship, -[657.78 --> 659.16] but you can also endure -[659.16 --> 659.86] the hardship -[659.86 --> 661.48] of that kind of oppression -[661.48 --> 663.14] that people place -[663.14 --> 663.96] upon you -[663.96 --> 665.38] or that circumstances -[665.38 --> 666.80] place upon you -[666.80 --> 668.90] and the assurance -[668.90 --> 670.02] that God -[670.02 --> 671.48] will make it right, -[672.04 --> 672.66] not you. -[674.50 --> 675.24] In other words, -[675.44 --> 676.42] waiting patiently -[676.42 --> 677.58] for the Lord's coming -[677.58 --> 678.56] reminds us -[678.56 --> 679.46] of those two -[679.46 --> 680.56] critical things -[680.56 --> 681.84] that one, -[681.94 --> 683.18] we are not in control, -[683.36 --> 684.14] we do not own -[684.14 --> 684.92] our own lives, -[685.58 --> 686.22] and two, -[686.58 --> 687.72] when we are mistreated -[687.72 --> 689.00] or when we think -[689.00 --> 690.96] we're suffering hardship, -[691.58 --> 693.78] God will set things right. -[694.78 --> 696.24] So living in the light -[696.24 --> 697.00] of eternity -[697.00 --> 698.58] solidly roots -[698.58 --> 700.48] our connection to God -[700.48 --> 701.68] no matter what -[701.68 --> 702.46] the circumstances -[702.46 --> 704.78] of our life are. -[705.66 --> 706.58] Maybe you're familiar -[706.58 --> 708.08] with Francis Chan, -[708.20 --> 709.46] his teaching on eternity. -[711.08 --> 712.48] Francis Chan brings -[712.48 --> 714.68] this impossible length -[714.68 --> 716.42] of thick white rope -[716.42 --> 717.48] on stage, -[717.68 --> 718.88] and it just coils -[718.88 --> 719.90] around and round -[719.90 --> 721.20] with no apparent beginning -[721.20 --> 722.56] and no apparent end, -[722.56 --> 725.90] and then he points out -[725.90 --> 726.88] that in the middle -[726.88 --> 727.88] of this impossible -[727.88 --> 729.32] length of rope, -[729.72 --> 731.22] there is a one inch -[731.22 --> 732.42] little piece -[732.42 --> 733.28] of the rope -[733.28 --> 734.38] that is red. -[735.48 --> 736.42] Francis Chan says, -[737.26 --> 738.02] that one inch -[738.02 --> 739.54] piece of red rope -[739.54 --> 741.06] is your life -[741.06 --> 741.78] in the midst -[741.78 --> 742.50] of eternity. -[743.28 --> 744.28] It's a great picture -[744.28 --> 745.22] I think as well -[745.22 --> 746.38] to illustrate -[746.38 --> 747.88] James' point here, -[747.88 --> 750.48] that we can spend -[750.48 --> 752.02] so much time -[752.02 --> 753.10] concentrating on -[753.10 --> 754.32] our one inch span -[754.32 --> 755.10] of life -[755.10 --> 757.16] when there's a whole -[757.16 --> 758.48] eternity in which -[758.48 --> 759.92] we can live. -[760.24 --> 761.16] An eternity -[761.16 --> 762.60] that assures us -[762.60 --> 763.92] that God -[763.92 --> 765.84] will give us life -[765.84 --> 767.44] and that God -[767.44 --> 768.08] will supply -[768.08 --> 769.60] all that we need -[769.60 --> 770.66] and that God -[770.66 --> 771.54] will provide -[771.54 --> 773.28] for every circumstance -[773.28 --> 774.72] of our life. -[775.42 --> 776.76] That is our -[776.76 --> 777.64] solid hope. -[779.86 --> 780.34] And so that's -[780.34 --> 781.40] on the one bank -[781.40 --> 782.98] of what roots us -[782.98 --> 783.90] in our connection -[783.90 --> 784.70] to God. -[785.16 --> 786.46] On one side -[786.46 --> 788.84] is that rootedness -[788.84 --> 789.48] of learning -[789.48 --> 790.26] to live -[790.26 --> 790.86] in the light -[790.86 --> 791.56] of eternity. -[791.82 --> 792.98] On the other side, -[793.24 --> 793.90] we're rooted -[793.90 --> 794.86] in our connection -[794.86 --> 795.66] to God -[795.66 --> 796.28] by prayer. -[797.78 --> 799.14] Learning to live -[799.14 --> 799.94] in the context -[799.94 --> 800.72] of prayer. -[800.72 --> 801.16] And so, -[801.46 --> 802.34] at the very end -[802.34 --> 803.44] of James' letter, -[803.56 --> 804.34] he says this, -[805.16 --> 806.12] Is anyone among you -[806.12 --> 806.82] in trouble? -[807.80 --> 808.52] Verse 13, -[809.12 --> 810.00] Is anyone among you -[810.00 --> 810.48] in trouble? -[810.78 --> 811.56] Let them pray. -[812.10 --> 813.00] Is anyone happy? -[813.46 --> 814.04] Let them sing -[814.04 --> 815.38] songs of praise, -[815.68 --> 816.50] a form of prayer. -[817.36 --> 818.44] Is anyone among you -[818.44 --> 818.86] sick? -[818.94 --> 820.04] Let them call the elders -[820.04 --> 820.80] of the church -[820.80 --> 822.12] to pray over them -[822.12 --> 823.56] and anoint them -[823.56 --> 824.00] with oil -[824.00 --> 824.92] in the name of the Lord. -[825.58 --> 826.22] And the prayer -[826.22 --> 827.20] offered in faith -[827.20 --> 828.36] will make them well. -[829.04 --> 830.08] The Lord will raise -[830.08 --> 830.60] them up. -[831.00 --> 831.90] If they have sinned, -[831.98 --> 832.80] they will be forgiven. -[832.98 --> 833.22] Therefore, -[833.42 --> 834.50] confess your sins -[834.50 --> 835.16] to each other -[835.16 --> 837.22] and pray for each other -[837.22 --> 838.56] so that you may be healed. -[839.18 --> 841.08] The prayer of a righteous person -[841.08 --> 842.34] is powerful -[842.34 --> 843.58] and effective. -[846.28 --> 847.42] It's in fact -[847.42 --> 849.42] the way that Jesus taught us -[849.42 --> 850.14] to pray. -[850.90 --> 851.42] Ask -[851.42 --> 853.42] and you will receive. -[855.72 --> 857.12] The thing is, -[857.12 --> 860.68] we've been taught to pray -[860.68 --> 862.42] by the likes of -[862.42 --> 863.74] Sir Isaac Newton -[863.74 --> 865.84] and company of scientists -[865.84 --> 867.92] who have firmly established us -[867.92 --> 869.68] in the scientific method. -[869.68 --> 871.02] The scientific method -[871.02 --> 872.14] can be summarized -[872.14 --> 872.92] in this way, -[873.00 --> 873.48] I suppose. -[875.38 --> 876.64] The scientific method -[876.64 --> 878.26] is a faith commitment -[878.26 --> 879.26] that assumes -[879.26 --> 883.02] that only real things -[883.02 --> 884.46] can be proven. -[884.46 --> 887.00] And that which is proven -[887.00 --> 888.78] is only that -[888.78 --> 889.80] which is seen. -[890.02 --> 891.06] And only that -[891.06 --> 892.14] which is seen -[892.14 --> 894.18] is what is real. -[894.18 --> 898.66] And that ends up -[898.66 --> 900.00] being a closed universe. -[900.54 --> 902.70] A pretty tightly packed -[902.70 --> 903.60] in universe -[903.60 --> 904.76] that says -[904.76 --> 906.68] this is all -[906.68 --> 907.78] that there is. -[909.72 --> 910.96] And then it's -[910.96 --> 912.44] a struggle for us -[912.44 --> 913.10] to pray -[913.10 --> 914.86] in that kind -[914.86 --> 916.02] of closed universe. -[917.72 --> 918.08] And so, -[918.30 --> 918.76] I admit, -[918.96 --> 920.10] and perhaps you struggle -[920.10 --> 921.14] with the same thing, -[921.14 --> 923.42] to think that -[923.42 --> 924.66] prayer actually -[924.66 --> 925.52] is effective -[925.52 --> 927.36] because what can words -[927.36 --> 928.18] do against -[928.18 --> 929.58] the laws of nature -[929.58 --> 930.90] which are otherwise -[930.90 --> 932.50] perfectly explainable? -[934.50 --> 936.04] We struggle with thinking -[936.04 --> 937.44] that prayer is no use -[937.44 --> 938.72] or that wondering -[938.72 --> 940.88] if prayer really works. -[942.10 --> 943.92] But James reminds us here -[943.92 --> 946.00] that prayer is real -[946.00 --> 947.32] in the asking. -[948.64 --> 950.32] Here's what he says, -[950.32 --> 951.10] at the beginning -[951.10 --> 951.76] of his letter -[951.76 --> 953.10] he starts out with -[953.10 --> 954.54] in chapter 1 -[954.54 --> 954.92] he says, -[955.08 --> 955.94] if you lack wisdom -[955.94 --> 957.18] ask God. -[957.90 --> 958.60] Ask God -[958.60 --> 959.60] and He'll give it to you. -[960.54 --> 961.50] In chapter 4 -[961.50 --> 962.04] he says, -[962.42 --> 962.64] look, -[962.98 --> 963.46] you guys, -[963.86 --> 964.68] you ask -[964.68 --> 967.10] and you don't receive -[967.10 --> 968.04] because you don't -[968.04 --> 969.98] or you don't have -[969.98 --> 971.68] because you don't ask God. -[973.24 --> 974.88] As if James is recalling -[974.88 --> 976.00] Jesus' own words -[976.00 --> 977.38] which is quite likely, -[978.12 --> 978.64] ask -[978.64 --> 980.60] and you will receive. -[982.46 --> 983.24] In other words, -[983.86 --> 984.60] what James is trying -[984.60 --> 985.18] to get across -[985.18 --> 986.58] is that the realness -[986.58 --> 987.44] of prayer, -[988.30 --> 989.56] effectiveness of prayer -[989.56 --> 990.58] is not that you'll get -[990.58 --> 991.40] what you want -[991.40 --> 992.36] when you utter -[992.36 --> 993.42] something up to God. -[993.42 --> 996.20] But that when we pray, -[997.04 --> 999.16] God really listens. -[1000.50 --> 1002.72] That's the reality of prayer. -[1003.48 --> 1004.86] That when we pray, -[1005.36 --> 1006.80] God listens. -[1006.80 --> 1008.32] He hears -[1008.32 --> 1010.68] and He responds. -[1012.24 --> 1013.80] So prayer is powerful -[1013.80 --> 1015.16] and it's effective -[1015.16 --> 1016.80] but not because -[1016.80 --> 1017.82] by it -[1017.82 --> 1019.56] you get to gain control -[1019.56 --> 1020.04] somehow -[1020.04 --> 1021.38] of your life again. -[1022.78 --> 1023.68] Prayer is effective -[1023.68 --> 1025.64] but not simply because -[1025.64 --> 1026.88] we get the outcome -[1026.88 --> 1027.64] we want. -[1029.26 --> 1029.68] Prayer -[1029.68 --> 1031.14] is about connecting -[1031.14 --> 1032.16] to God. -[1032.16 --> 1032.20] God. -[1033.90 --> 1034.66] And so we pray -[1034.66 --> 1035.90] not just so that -[1035.90 --> 1037.42] God can help us out -[1037.42 --> 1038.88] as if He is some kind -[1038.88 --> 1039.60] of magician -[1039.60 --> 1040.58] for us. -[1041.56 --> 1042.78] James warns against that. -[1042.86 --> 1044.28] He says in chapter 4, -[1044.38 --> 1044.64] he says, -[1044.76 --> 1045.70] when you ask, -[1045.80 --> 1046.34] verse 3, -[1046.72 --> 1047.56] when you ask, -[1047.70 --> 1048.60] you don't receive -[1048.60 --> 1049.68] because you ask -[1049.68 --> 1050.52] with wrong motives -[1050.52 --> 1051.70] that you may spend -[1051.70 --> 1052.34] what you get -[1052.34 --> 1053.18] on your pleasures. -[1054.34 --> 1055.38] We're used to that, -[1055.44 --> 1055.72] aren't we? -[1056.76 --> 1057.86] We certainly live -[1057.86 --> 1058.90] in that kind of a culture -[1058.90 --> 1060.50] where we're used -[1060.50 --> 1061.74] to just being able -[1061.74 --> 1062.64] to go out -[1062.64 --> 1063.88] and do our thing -[1063.88 --> 1065.46] because we feel like it. -[1067.26 --> 1068.36] And that's what makes -[1068.36 --> 1069.24] living in this COVID -[1069.24 --> 1070.52] pandemic so hard -[1070.52 --> 1073.30] is we have to get used -[1073.30 --> 1074.14] to living a different -[1074.14 --> 1075.02] kind of life -[1075.02 --> 1076.92] and then -[1076.92 --> 1079.06] and then our connection -[1079.06 --> 1079.80] to God -[1079.80 --> 1081.00] rooted -[1081.00 --> 1082.82] in learning -[1082.82 --> 1083.88] to be connected -[1083.88 --> 1085.12] in the context -[1085.12 --> 1085.90] of prayer -[1085.90 --> 1087.72] is crucial. -[1088.90 --> 1091.48] prayer draws us -[1091.48 --> 1092.32] into the presence -[1092.32 --> 1093.12] of God -[1093.12 --> 1095.50] and that's not -[1095.50 --> 1096.66] to be taken for granted. -[1097.58 --> 1098.42] Oh, sure, I pray. -[1099.16 --> 1100.34] Oh, yeah, we said a prayer. -[1101.26 --> 1102.20] It's not to be taken -[1102.20 --> 1102.84] for granted. -[1103.60 --> 1104.88] It's amazing -[1104.88 --> 1106.78] that in prayer -[1106.78 --> 1107.90] we are connected -[1107.90 --> 1109.20] to the God -[1109.20 --> 1110.24] of the universe, -[1110.48 --> 1111.98] the God who made you, -[1112.10 --> 1113.00] the God who made -[1113.00 --> 1114.74] everything that there is -[1114.74 --> 1116.18] and when you utter -[1116.18 --> 1117.26] words to Him, -[1117.26 --> 1119.44] that God -[1119.44 --> 1120.84] listens. -[1123.68 --> 1125.52] He listens so intimately -[1125.52 --> 1126.48] that you can be -[1126.48 --> 1127.72] absolutely honest -[1127.72 --> 1128.32] with God -[1128.32 --> 1129.40] and so James says -[1129.40 --> 1130.18] when you pray -[1130.18 --> 1133.30] then confess your sins -[1133.30 --> 1134.08] and then I wish -[1134.08 --> 1134.74] he had added -[1134.74 --> 1135.90] and confess them -[1135.90 --> 1137.10] quietly before God -[1137.10 --> 1137.72] but he says -[1137.72 --> 1138.92] confess them -[1138.92 --> 1140.04] before one another. -[1140.04 --> 1143.42] When we gather -[1143.42 --> 1143.94] for worship -[1143.94 --> 1145.08] we have a time -[1145.08 --> 1145.84] of confession -[1145.84 --> 1147.66] and we kind of -[1147.66 --> 1148.50] sit through that -[1148.50 --> 1149.18] and we kind of -[1149.18 --> 1150.36] make it a general thing -[1150.36 --> 1151.18] and hope that -[1151.18 --> 1152.48] that covers us all -[1152.48 --> 1153.70] but actually -[1153.70 --> 1155.12] James would say -[1155.12 --> 1156.76] that's not far enough. -[1158.18 --> 1158.78] You've got to -[1158.78 --> 1159.98] confess to each other. -[1160.54 --> 1160.80] Why? -[1162.42 --> 1163.74] Because when prayer -[1163.74 --> 1164.52] connects you -[1164.52 --> 1165.36] with God -[1165.36 --> 1166.46] you don't have to -[1166.46 --> 1167.32] worry about your -[1167.32 --> 1167.84] weaknesses -[1167.84 --> 1169.18] and your failures. -[1170.68 --> 1170.92] Sure, -[1171.06 --> 1171.80] other people might -[1171.80 --> 1172.26] judge you -[1172.26 --> 1173.16] but God -[1173.16 --> 1174.32] isn't going to -[1174.32 --> 1175.48] hold that against you. -[1175.66 --> 1176.12] God -[1176.12 --> 1177.00] is a God -[1177.00 --> 1177.66] of forgiveness. -[1179.56 --> 1180.60] We're connected -[1180.60 --> 1181.74] to that God -[1181.74 --> 1182.60] that God -[1182.60 --> 1183.20] of grace -[1183.20 --> 1183.94] and mercy -[1183.94 --> 1185.32] when we learn -[1185.32 --> 1185.88] to live -[1185.88 --> 1186.68] in the context -[1186.68 --> 1187.92] of prayer. -[1189.28 --> 1190.14] So those are -[1190.14 --> 1190.98] the two pillars -[1190.98 --> 1192.10] that form -[1192.10 --> 1192.62] a connection -[1192.62 --> 1193.30] to God. -[1194.08 --> 1194.80] On the one hand -[1194.80 --> 1195.76] learning to live -[1195.76 --> 1196.22] in the light -[1196.22 --> 1196.74] of eternity -[1196.74 --> 1197.76] and on the other -[1197.76 --> 1198.22] hand -[1198.22 --> 1199.50] learning to live -[1199.50 --> 1200.34] in the context -[1200.34 --> 1201.26] of prayer. -[1202.10 --> 1202.84] Now when I had -[1202.84 --> 1203.56] preached this -[1203.56 --> 1204.90] at New Life -[1204.90 --> 1205.86] and we do -[1205.86 --> 1207.18] pre-recorded services -[1207.18 --> 1209.44] which gives me -[1209.44 --> 1210.08] the freedom to -[1210.08 --> 1210.62] preach wherever -[1210.62 --> 1211.48] I feel like it -[1211.48 --> 1211.84] I thought -[1211.84 --> 1212.28] you know what -[1212.28 --> 1212.90] I should preach -[1212.90 --> 1213.76] in front of a bridge. -[1214.22 --> 1214.66] So we went -[1214.66 --> 1215.18] in front of the -[1215.18 --> 1215.94] mission bridge -[1215.94 --> 1216.60] there on -[1216.60 --> 1217.36] Highway 11 -[1217.36 --> 1219.82] with the -[1219.82 --> 1220.56] Fraser River -[1220.56 --> 1221.70] in the background. -[1222.00 --> 1222.64] It was a beautiful -[1222.64 --> 1223.70] scenic setting. -[1223.88 --> 1224.62] It was a great -[1224.62 --> 1225.48] place to preach. -[1225.48 --> 1227.72] And when we -[1227.72 --> 1228.42] saw it on the -[1228.42 --> 1229.14] recording then -[1229.14 --> 1229.62] of course -[1229.62 --> 1231.12] because it was -[1231.12 --> 1231.78] a sunny day -[1231.78 --> 1232.66] the river -[1232.66 --> 1233.10] just -[1233.10 --> 1235.24] overexposed -[1235.24 --> 1235.76] everything. -[1236.00 --> 1236.60] So all you -[1236.60 --> 1236.94] could see -[1236.94 --> 1237.44] was me -[1237.44 --> 1237.72] and you -[1237.72 --> 1238.08] couldn't even -[1238.08 --> 1238.88] see the bridge. -[1239.44 --> 1240.24] So I had to -[1240.24 --> 1240.78] think of something -[1240.78 --> 1241.82] else to illustrate -[1241.82 --> 1243.00] this point -[1243.00 --> 1243.74] of saying -[1243.74 --> 1244.16] look -[1244.16 --> 1244.88] if you want -[1244.88 --> 1245.54] to be deeply -[1245.54 --> 1246.58] connected to God -[1246.58 --> 1247.68] for an all-in -[1247.68 --> 1248.26] faith -[1248.26 --> 1249.56] you need to be -[1249.56 --> 1250.46] rooted in both -[1250.46 --> 1251.88] banks -[1251.88 --> 1252.08] banks -[1252.08 --> 1253.32] in order to -[1253.32 --> 1253.82] form that -[1253.82 --> 1254.52] bridge of -[1254.52 --> 1255.36] connection to -[1255.36 --> 1255.82] God. -[1257.22 --> 1257.54] And so I -[1257.54 --> 1258.24] came across -[1258.24 --> 1260.88] a living -[1260.88 --> 1261.52] bridge -[1261.52 --> 1262.74] which in fact -[1262.74 --> 1264.12] is a way -[1264.12 --> 1264.54] better -[1264.54 --> 1265.98] illustration -[1265.98 --> 1267.30] of what -[1267.30 --> 1267.90] James is -[1267.90 --> 1268.58] trying to -[1268.58 --> 1269.42] teach us -[1269.42 --> 1270.18] here in -[1270.18 --> 1271.40] James chapter 5. -[1272.84 --> 1273.54] Living bridges -[1273.54 --> 1274.84] occur in -[1274.84 --> 1275.54] northwest -[1275.54 --> 1276.26] India -[1276.26 --> 1276.78] in a place -[1276.78 --> 1277.78] called Meghalaya. -[1277.78 --> 1278.88] It's a place -[1278.88 --> 1279.46] that gets -[1279.46 --> 1279.94] the most -[1279.94 --> 1280.60] rain of -[1280.60 --> 1281.28] any place -[1281.28 --> 1281.68] on the -[1281.68 --> 1282.06] planet. -[1282.26 --> 1282.90] Something like -[1282.90 --> 1284.12] they average -[1284.12 --> 1285.28] 4 meters -[1285.28 --> 1286.36] of rain -[1286.36 --> 1287.86] on average -[1287.86 --> 1288.90] per year. -[1289.82 --> 1290.22] I think we -[1290.22 --> 1290.60] probably -[1290.60 --> 1291.30] at least in -[1291.30 --> 1291.68] Abbotsford -[1291.68 --> 1292.28] we get about -[1292.28 --> 1293.28] a meter -[1293.28 --> 1293.84] maybe a -[1293.84 --> 1294.32] meter and a -[1294.32 --> 1294.68] half -[1294.68 --> 1296.26] year -[1296.26 --> 1297.22] average -[1297.22 --> 1297.86] accumulation. -[1299.10 --> 1299.26] So -[1299.26 --> 1300.56] these people -[1300.56 --> 1301.16] have to put up -[1301.16 --> 1301.84] with enormous -[1301.84 --> 1303.14] monsoon rains -[1303.14 --> 1304.28] and tremendous -[1304.28 --> 1305.04] flooding so you -[1305.04 --> 1305.88] can well imagine -[1305.88 --> 1307.18] years ago -[1307.18 --> 1308.06] when they -[1308.06 --> 1308.58] tried to -[1308.58 --> 1309.04] build a -[1309.04 --> 1309.72] bridge across -[1309.72 --> 1310.38] a stream -[1310.38 --> 1312.14] the banks -[1312.14 --> 1312.68] would so -[1312.68 --> 1313.44] easily just -[1313.44 --> 1314.28] wash out -[1314.28 --> 1314.86] and then the -[1314.86 --> 1315.40] bridges would -[1315.40 --> 1315.96] collapse. -[1317.24 --> 1317.68] I got to -[1317.68 --> 1318.16] thinking you -[1318.16 --> 1318.46] know what -[1318.46 --> 1320.44] that's a lot -[1320.44 --> 1320.96] of times -[1320.96 --> 1322.12] the way we -[1322.12 --> 1322.82] try to build -[1322.82 --> 1323.46] our connection -[1323.46 --> 1324.10] to God -[1324.10 --> 1325.20] and then -[1325.20 --> 1327.06] the monsoons -[1327.06 --> 1327.80] of hardship -[1327.80 --> 1328.56] or trial -[1328.56 --> 1329.34] in our lives -[1329.34 --> 1330.00] come along -[1330.00 --> 1330.52] and wash -[1330.52 --> 1331.26] out the banks -[1331.26 --> 1331.92] and our bridge -[1331.92 --> 1332.44] collapses -[1332.44 --> 1333.24] and we give -[1333.24 --> 1333.76] up on our -[1333.76 --> 1334.10] connection -[1334.10 --> 1334.70] with God. -[1335.66 --> 1336.26] So you know -[1336.26 --> 1336.68] what the people -[1336.68 --> 1337.38] of Meghalaya -[1337.38 --> 1337.96] did in -[1337.96 --> 1338.30] northwest -[1338.30 --> 1338.82] India. -[1339.40 --> 1340.02] They discovered -[1340.02 --> 1340.86] that they -[1340.86 --> 1341.34] could take -[1341.34 --> 1342.04] a tree that -[1342.04 --> 1342.84] grew naturally -[1342.84 --> 1343.82] there and -[1343.82 --> 1344.78] train the roots -[1344.78 --> 1345.54] of the tree -[1345.54 --> 1346.62] to come up -[1346.62 --> 1347.10] out of the -[1347.10 --> 1347.96] ground on one -[1347.96 --> 1348.50] side of the -[1348.50 --> 1349.04] bank of a -[1349.04 --> 1349.42] stream. -[1349.84 --> 1350.14] They could -[1350.14 --> 1350.78] train the -[1350.78 --> 1351.38] roots of -[1351.38 --> 1352.02] that tree -[1352.02 --> 1353.16] to go over -[1353.16 --> 1353.82] the stream -[1353.82 --> 1354.80] and then they -[1354.80 --> 1355.30] would plant -[1355.30 --> 1356.14] it back into -[1356.14 --> 1356.60] the other -[1356.60 --> 1357.68] bank and -[1357.68 --> 1357.96] they would -[1357.96 --> 1358.52] do that with -[1358.52 --> 1359.12] a tree on -[1359.12 --> 1359.46] the other -[1359.46 --> 1359.94] side of the -[1359.94 --> 1360.58] bank back -[1360.58 --> 1361.22] to the -[1361.22 --> 1362.34] first bank -[1362.34 --> 1363.42] and eventually -[1363.42 --> 1364.68] a web of -[1364.68 --> 1365.74] roots would -[1365.74 --> 1366.84] grow together -[1366.84 --> 1367.44] so that they -[1367.44 --> 1368.10] could fill it -[1368.10 --> 1368.84] with rocks -[1368.84 --> 1369.54] and mud -[1369.54 --> 1370.48] and create -[1370.48 --> 1371.24] a path. -[1371.98 --> 1372.70] I brought a -[1372.70 --> 1373.36] picture along -[1373.36 --> 1373.74] I don't know -[1373.74 --> 1374.24] if there it -[1374.24 --> 1375.14] is so there -[1375.14 --> 1375.62] it is. -[1376.68 --> 1377.52] And so it -[1377.52 --> 1378.16] doesn't matter -[1378.16 --> 1379.24] really how much -[1379.24 --> 1380.10] rain comes -[1380.10 --> 1381.20] down but -[1381.20 --> 1381.90] those roots -[1381.90 --> 1382.60] are firmly -[1382.60 --> 1383.94] established deep -[1383.94 --> 1384.88] into the banks -[1384.88 --> 1385.44] and to the -[1385.44 --> 1386.26] sides of the -[1386.26 --> 1387.46] stream so that -[1387.46 --> 1387.84] they could -[1387.84 --> 1388.76] create a -[1388.76 --> 1389.68] connection from -[1389.68 --> 1391.02] one side to -[1391.02 --> 1391.46] the other. -[1391.46 --> 1392.86] And that's -[1392.86 --> 1393.40] something of -[1393.40 --> 1394.10] what the -[1394.10 --> 1394.94] connection of -[1394.94 --> 1395.62] God as -[1395.62 --> 1396.62] James describes -[1396.62 --> 1398.10] it is like. -[1398.74 --> 1399.40] It's not a -[1399.40 --> 1400.12] matter of just -[1400.12 --> 1400.76] saying oh -[1400.76 --> 1402.58] okay so I -[1402.58 --> 1403.16] prayed I -[1403.16 --> 1403.44] should be -[1403.44 --> 1403.90] connected to -[1403.90 --> 1404.14] God. -[1404.58 --> 1405.48] Oh yeah I -[1405.48 --> 1405.94] thought about -[1405.94 --> 1406.62] eternity I -[1406.62 --> 1406.90] should be -[1406.90 --> 1407.38] connected to -[1407.38 --> 1407.70] God. -[1408.28 --> 1408.56] No it -[1408.56 --> 1409.04] takes a -[1409.04 --> 1410.62] lifetime of -[1410.62 --> 1412.20] learning to -[1412.20 --> 1413.02] live in the -[1413.02 --> 1413.36] light of -[1413.36 --> 1413.78] eternity. -[1414.02 --> 1414.50] It takes a -[1414.50 --> 1415.34] lifetime of -[1415.34 --> 1416.02] learning to -[1416.02 --> 1416.56] live in the -[1416.56 --> 1417.34] context of -[1417.34 --> 1417.70] prayer. -[1418.32 --> 1418.76] Perhaps you're -[1418.76 --> 1419.12] not going to -[1419.12 --> 1419.60] get it right -[1419.60 --> 1420.34] the first time. -[1420.46 --> 1421.12] Perhaps you're -[1421.12 --> 1421.72] going to have -[1421.72 --> 1422.24] stumbling. -[1422.44 --> 1423.00] Perhaps you're -[1423.00 --> 1423.44] going to have -[1423.44 --> 1424.70] those times of -[1424.70 --> 1425.66] wash out. -[1426.62 --> 1427.28] But those -[1427.28 --> 1429.34] roots of -[1429.34 --> 1429.94] learning to -[1429.94 --> 1430.50] live in the -[1430.50 --> 1430.84] light of -[1430.84 --> 1431.70] eternity and -[1431.70 --> 1432.24] learning to -[1432.24 --> 1433.68] live in the -[1433.68 --> 1434.46] context of -[1434.46 --> 1435.62] prayer are -[1435.62 --> 1436.30] going to be -[1436.30 --> 1437.56] firmly established -[1437.56 --> 1438.88] and eventually -[1438.88 --> 1440.06] they will grow -[1440.06 --> 1441.20] into a web -[1441.20 --> 1442.66] that creates a -[1442.66 --> 1444.18] direct path to -[1444.18 --> 1444.58] God. -[1445.58 --> 1446.58] So that you -[1446.58 --> 1447.42] can live in -[1447.42 --> 1448.00] the assurance -[1448.00 --> 1449.86] that God is -[1449.86 --> 1450.48] always with -[1450.48 --> 1450.74] you. -[1451.12 --> 1451.72] And you -[1451.72 --> 1452.66] are always -[1452.66 --> 1453.64] walking with -[1453.64 --> 1453.94] God. -[1454.38 --> 1454.86] Let's pray -[1454.86 --> 1455.18] together. -[1457.74 --> 1458.46] Father in -[1458.46 --> 1458.68] heaven, -[1459.78 --> 1460.56] thank you -[1460.56 --> 1465.70] that you -[1465.70 --> 1466.40] are a -[1466.40 --> 1466.92] God that -[1466.92 --> 1468.76] hears us. -[1471.80 --> 1472.48] You're a -[1472.48 --> 1472.88] God that -[1472.88 --> 1473.66] pays attention -[1473.66 --> 1474.24] when we -[1474.24 --> 1474.84] cry out -[1474.84 --> 1475.80] loudly to -[1475.80 --> 1476.08] you. -[1477.72 --> 1478.38] You're a -[1478.38 --> 1479.88] God that -[1479.88 --> 1481.20] hears us -[1481.20 --> 1482.42] and listens -[1482.42 --> 1483.68] even when -[1483.68 --> 1484.58] we mumble -[1484.58 --> 1485.70] and grumble -[1485.70 --> 1487.00] out to -[1487.00 --> 1487.32] you. -[1489.48 --> 1490.46] God, thank -[1490.46 --> 1491.02] you that you -[1491.02 --> 1491.72] are a God -[1491.72 --> 1493.24] that has -[1493.24 --> 1493.76] the whole -[1493.76 --> 1495.20] universe in -[1495.20 --> 1496.22] your hand -[1496.22 --> 1497.20] from the -[1497.20 --> 1497.82] very beginning -[1497.82 --> 1498.72] of time -[1498.72 --> 1499.96] to the very -[1499.96 --> 1500.82] end of time. -[1500.82 --> 1501.82] God, thank you -[1501.82 --> 1502.82] for the -[1502.82 --> 1503.82] God. -[1503.82 --> 1503.96] So we -[1503.96 --> 1504.70] pray, God, -[1504.78 --> 1506.94] that you -[1506.94 --> 1507.46] will teach -[1507.46 --> 1508.90] us what it -[1508.90 --> 1509.36] means to -[1509.36 --> 1509.94] live in the -[1509.94 --> 1510.26] light of -[1510.26 --> 1510.72] eternity. -[1510.96 --> 1511.56] Teach us -[1511.56 --> 1511.88] what it -[1511.88 --> 1512.52] means to -[1512.52 --> 1513.14] be connected -[1513.14 --> 1514.08] through prayer. -[1515.36 --> 1516.18] And God, -[1516.78 --> 1517.74] we confess -[1517.74 --> 1519.30] that it's -[1519.30 --> 1519.88] easy for us -[1519.88 --> 1520.58] to give up. -[1521.80 --> 1522.60] It's easy -[1522.60 --> 1523.66] for us to -[1523.66 --> 1524.44] just fall -[1524.44 --> 1525.32] flat on -[1525.32 --> 1525.90] our face. -[1525.90 --> 1526.02] us. -[1527.22 --> 1528.00] And so -[1528.00 --> 1528.72] pick us up -[1528.72 --> 1529.72] again and -[1529.72 --> 1530.08] again. -[1530.94 --> 1531.58] Restore us -[1531.58 --> 1532.36] to yourself. -[1533.92 --> 1534.94] Create in us, -[1535.06 --> 1535.50] God, a -[1535.50 --> 1536.40] clean heart. -[1538.06 --> 1539.24] And draw us -[1539.24 --> 1540.10] to yourself -[1540.10 --> 1542.58] so that we -[1542.58 --> 1545.22] can proclaim -[1545.22 --> 1546.30] your goodness, -[1547.26 --> 1547.92] so that we -[1547.92 --> 1548.50] can let your -[1548.50 --> 1549.60] light shine, -[1550.26 --> 1550.98] and so that -[1550.98 --> 1552.10] we can proclaim -[1552.10 --> 1553.28] your kingdom -[1553.28 --> 1554.78] and that you -[1554.78 --> 1555.60] are the ruler -[1555.60 --> 1557.60] still and -[1557.60 --> 1558.64] that you -[1558.64 --> 1559.40] will accomplish -[1559.40 --> 1560.20] your purposes -[1560.20 --> 1561.28] in our world -[1561.28 --> 1562.26] and that -[1562.26 --> 1562.88] nothing, -[1563.06 --> 1563.60] absolutely -[1563.60 --> 1564.14] nothing, -[1564.32 --> 1565.08] no pandemic -[1565.08 --> 1566.02] ever hinders -[1566.02 --> 1566.82] your purposes. -[1568.32 --> 1568.78] And so we -[1568.78 --> 1569.60] trust in you, -[1569.72 --> 1569.90] Father. -[1572.02 --> 1572.80] And so may we -[1572.80 --> 1573.78] live our lives -[1573.78 --> 1574.94] in that kind -[1574.94 --> 1575.90] of all-in -[1575.90 --> 1577.32] faith that is -[1577.32 --> 1578.12] deeply connected -[1578.12 --> 1578.64] to you. -[1578.76 --> 1579.44] We pray it in -[1579.44 --> 1580.06] Jesus' name. -[1580.98 --> 1581.26] Amen. -[1583.28 --> 1584.28] Amen. diff --git a/Dancing in a Dirge (Sermon)_summary.txt b/Dancing in a Dirge (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b403681654d95f4310b6f5b5e78346dab8263a8f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Dancing in a Dirge (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,26 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction to wrapping up a sermon series on Habakkuk -• Discussion of Pastor Chris giving the speaker only three verses to preach on -• Pronunciation of the prophet's name (Habakkuk) -• Reading from Habakkuk 3:16-19 and explanation of its significance -• The prophet's transformation from despair to rejoicing in God despite dire circumstances -• The message of trusting God, not necessarily for salvation from suffering, but from sin and death forever -• The strength and power of faith comes from the object of faith, not the holder of it -• Faith is a gift that can be placed in various objects, but ultimately should be in God -• God's faithfulness is what sets Him apart from other objects of faith -• Hope is an important concept because it influences how one feels about their present situation based on their perspective of their future -• A hopeless world: people are feeling at a loss for hope due to increasing anxiety, depression, and mental health issues -• The current generation (Gen Z) is experiencing unprecedented levels of anxiety and feelings of hopelessness about their futures -• Our culture is losing hope in various areas: government, environment, economics -• Declining confidence in the future due to loss of hope in current institutions and systems -• Pop culture reflecting and feeding hopelessness through dystopian stories and antiheroes -• Putting hope in wrong things vs. putting hope in God's promises and redemption story -• Tim Keller's quote on hope requiring faith in something transcending this world -• Death as a test of hope, with the need for hope in something beyond this life becoming more apparent -• The Christian hope in Jesus Christ as Redeemer and Savior, offering restoration, justice, and eternal life -• Confidence in death approaching based on secure hope in redemption through Jesus -• Death as a step towards freedom -• D.L. Moody's quote about death and being more alive -• The story of Stephen in Acts, seeing heaven opened -• Hope in Christ after death, based on faith and relationship with Him -• Hope is a gift, not earned or bought, but available to everyone -• The security of hope in Christ, demonstrated through rejoicing in adversity \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Dancing in a Dirge (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/Dancing in a Dirge (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d38545d41b6866846d94692a6fe41e1e30d72342..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Dancing in a Dirge (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,235 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 8.48] Well, it is my pleasure this morning to bring you God's Word. And today we are going to be -[8.48 --> 13.44] wrapping up sort of our current sermon series that we've been working on for the past month -[13.44 --> 19.08] on Habakkuk. Now, I was pumped when Pastor Chris asked if I would join him in this sermon series, -[19.12 --> 24.06] and I was even flattered that he asked that I would do the fourth and final installment -[24.06 --> 30.52] of this series. And then I realized that while he preached the last three weeks on three chapters -[30.52 --> 37.38] comprising 57 verses of this book of the Bible, all he left me with was three measly verses at the end. -[38.10 --> 41.66] And I guess he already knows that I'm long-winded and he didn't want to give me too much to go off -[41.66 --> 47.70] of. I'm kidding, of course. The real reason there's so few verses today is simply this. This is how the -[47.70 --> 53.66] text breaks down in this book. And the three verses today not only sort of conclude the book as a whole -[53.66 --> 59.50] and bring some finality to it, it also summarizes the past three weeks quite well, which I guess -[59.50 --> 64.36] that makes sense. That's how conclusions work. Before we start, though, this is important. It's -[64.36 --> 69.60] important that you all know that unlike Pastor Chris, I have no real convictions on how to pronounce -[69.60 --> 76.82] this prophet's name. I have been saying all my life Habakkuk, and so now to pronounce it Habakkuk -[76.82 --> 82.96] is a little bit hard for me. In fact, I may be going back and forth this entire sermon, and if I do that, -[82.96 --> 86.04] feel free to write me lots of emails and let me know that I did just that. -[86.86 --> 91.18] Actually, what I'll probably do is just use words like him or that prophet or that guy, -[91.30 --> 95.18] because generally that's what people do when they don't remember someone's name, right? Like if -[95.18 --> 98.48] someone comes up to you and is like, hey, Kevin, like you respond and you don't know who they are, -[98.88 --> 105.04] you respond with like, hey, buckaroo. So I might just default to that or do something similar today. -[105.96 --> 111.38] Anyways, our text today comes from Buckaroo 3 verse, no, I'm kidding. I'm not actually going to do this. -[111.38 --> 117.88] We're going to read from Habakkuk 3 verses 17 to 19 this morning, and because it's so short, -[118.70 --> 124.46] I want to start a verse early and read verse 16 as well. I figured we could all use a bonus verse -[124.46 --> 130.86] in our lives during this season. So verses 16, it actually really kind of sets the stage, so to speak, -[130.90 --> 136.04] for our text. So please open up your Bibles, pull out your notebooks, your pens, pull out your chai tea -[136.04 --> 142.50] lattes, your puppets, your glasses, your stress balls, whatever you need right now to really dig -[142.50 --> 150.86] into this text, grab it and join me as we read Habakkuk 3 verses 16 to 19. And there we read this, -[150.90 --> 159.38] it says, I heard and my heart pounded, my lips quivered at the sound, decay crept into my bones -[159.38 --> 166.60] and my legs trembled. Yet I will wait patiently for the day of calamity to come on the nation -[166.60 --> 174.60] invading us. Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive -[174.60 --> 181.34] crops fail and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the -[181.34 --> 192.30] stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord. I will be joyful in God, my Savior. The sovereign Lord is my -[192.30 --> 200.02] strength. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer. He enables me to tread on the heights. -[201.30 --> 209.90] The word of the Lord. Now, like I said, this passage, it nicely sums up what the entire book of Habakkuk is -[209.90 --> 215.52] about. Within these few lines of this book, we hear about the prophet, how he is in both a state of -[215.52 --> 223.94] despair and a state of triumph. With the fear of the nation of Babylon's invasion growing and growing -[223.94 --> 229.28] and the worry that his people were going to suffer because of it, Habakkuk, he's in dire straits. -[230.42 --> 239.16] We read that his body trembled, his heart pounded, his lips quivered, the attack was coming, and he knew, -[239.16 --> 246.26] he knew there would be loss. He knew there would be pain. He knew there would be suffering. He knew -[246.26 --> 257.06] there would be death. However, in the midst of this despair, we read today that he rejoiced. -[259.38 --> 264.38] When he started this book, Habakkuk was about to fall apart. Destruction, violence, wickedness, -[264.38 --> 271.84] injustice. It was all around him. He cried out to God, and his cries were heard. God answered his -[271.84 --> 278.92] complaints, and he provided Habakkuk the confidence, and more importantly, he provided Habakkuk the lens, -[279.56 --> 287.66] the perspective that he needed to lift him out of his despair. Though he was physically and emotionally -[287.66 --> 295.16] weak, Habakkuk was spiritually strong, and our text is the final phase of his transformation. -[297.68 --> 304.36] Habakkuk realized that his peace, his peace, did not depend on his circumstance. -[306.20 --> 312.26] And in verse 17 of our text today, he lists and outlines all of the worst pending dooms he could -[312.26 --> 318.78] think of in his circumstance. The failure of crops, no more figs for cakes, no more grapes for wine, -[318.90 --> 325.24] no more oil and grain for bread, the loss of sheep and cattle, no more meat to eat, no more clothes -[325.24 --> 331.32] to wear, no more jobs to do, no more purpose to live for. -[331.32 --> 342.26] Habakkuk. But even in the midst of annihilation and ruin, of famine and even death, Habakkuk was prepared -[342.26 --> 350.20] to trust God. Not necessarily trust that God was going to save them from this torment, no, -[350.58 --> 359.30] but that God was going to save them from the laws of sin and death and war and suffering forever. -[359.30 --> 367.34] In fact, it went beyond trust. Not only did he believe in God's redemption plan, but he rejoiced. -[368.08 --> 376.58] He was joyful in the midst of his concern. He found strength, not in himself, not in his understanding, -[377.08 --> 383.80] not in his ability to cope with his circumstance. No, he found strength in the sovereign Lord. -[383.80 --> 390.58] He found his footing in the God who keeps his covenant promises forever. -[392.52 --> 399.00] Habakkuk came to realize that his faith could ultimately and even finally be left in the God -[399.00 --> 406.40] who keeps his covenant promises forever. Yet, I will rejoice in the Lord. I will be joyful in the Lord, -[406.40 --> 417.74] my Savior, he says. He could rejoice because he began to understand that his faith is a gift. -[419.32 --> 424.98] Now, we talk about spiritual gifts, spiritual gifts of things like encouragement or hospitality or wisdom, -[425.08 --> 433.32] there's lots. Faith is also a gift. Faith is something we are all given to varying degrees, sure, -[433.32 --> 451.34] but we are all given this gift. And the strength and power of that gift of faith is in the object of faith, -[451.44 --> 456.66] not in the holder of it. So, for example, if I were to put my faith in the government, let's just say, -[456.66 --> 462.80] the government is the object of my faith. It has the strength, it has the power, not me. I have very -[462.80 --> 468.92] little control over what the government does. So, the object of my faith has the strength and the -[468.92 --> 473.78] power, not the holder of it. Or perhaps we put our faith in the economy. Again, we have very little -[473.78 --> 479.80] control over what the economy does. So, it holds the power of our faith, not me, the holder of it. -[479.80 --> 492.16] That means that when we put our faith in God, the strength and power of that faith is God, not us. -[493.54 --> 497.78] And of course, the big difference between God and the government or the economy or anything else -[497.78 --> 506.78] is that God is faithful to us. That's why Pastor Chris has said several times over the past three -[506.78 --> 513.90] weeks that when we become weak, when our confidence is shaken, God remains faithful. -[515.52 --> 522.72] The power and the strength of faith is in the object of faith, our God. -[525.28 --> 529.34] I'm going to let that marinate for just a little bit. So, sit on that, stew on that a little bit, -[529.34 --> 538.82] and we'll get back to it. So, Habakkuk, he finds his hope in God's faithfulness. Hope. -[539.94 --> 545.66] Hope is such an interesting thing, isn't it? It's incredibly important. It's important because -[545.66 --> 552.26] what we believe about our future completely controls how we feel about our present. -[552.26 --> 559.52] Let me say that again. What we believe about our future completely controls about how we feel about -[559.52 --> 566.22] our present. I read a great example of this that highlights this truth. In his book, Making Sense of -[566.22 --> 573.56] God, Timothy Keller, he uses the following analogy to show just how important our perspective and -[573.56 --> 581.24] understanding of the future is to our perception of reality. So, picture this. Follow along with me -[581.24 --> 586.34] here. Pretend there are two women, both of which are the same age, they're the same socioeconomic -[586.34 --> 592.02] class, they're the same race, same worldview, same everything. And you take these two women and you -[592.02 --> 599.48] give them a job. They get the same job. It is a super boring job, an assembly line job. Take part A, -[599.80 --> 608.02] put it on part B, do not rinse, do not lather, only repeat over and over and over again. They're in the -[608.02 --> 613.44] same room, same lighting, same temperature, same hours, same breaks, same job, same everything. -[614.20 --> 622.54] The only difference is that you tell woman A that after a year you will pay her $30,000 for doing that -[622.54 --> 631.72] job. And you tell woman B that you will pay her $30 million to do that job. Well, what happens? -[631.72 --> 637.50] After a week or two, woman A starts to wonder if it's all worth it. She begins to grumble and complain -[637.50 --> 643.22] and eventually she quits. She bows out. Woman B, on the other hand, shows up every day, whistling while -[643.22 --> 649.90] she works, faithfully doing her job. She sticks it out. Her future hope of that $30 million makes the -[649.90 --> 659.66] day seem not so bad. How each woman perceived her future completely controlled their present situation. -[659.66 --> 663.36] Hope matters. -[665.44 --> 672.08] And yet we find ourselves in an increasingly hopeless world, don't we? People are feeling -[672.08 --> 680.26] at a loss for hope. This past Thursday was Let's Talk Day. It's a day in the year where we all are -[680.26 --> 684.98] encouraged to talk about and post on social media about mental health and raise awareness for -[684.98 --> 690.28] invisible illness. And it's a wonderful day. It's a fantastic initiative because mental health -[690.28 --> 697.44] needs our discussion. It needs our attention. Anxiety is becoming more and more prevalent. -[698.04 --> 707.92] Depression too. Suicide numbers are rising. Generation Z, the youngest generation right now, is the most -[707.92 --> 715.90] anxious generation in decades. Maybe ever. Eric Uslander, he's a PhD professor in Maryland, -[716.04 --> 722.22] he highlights this and he says this. He says, young people today are the first generation in history -[722.22 --> 727.94] to be certain they are and will be worse off than their parents. -[730.20 --> 735.90] According to studies done by the American Psychological Association, your average child today -[735.90 --> 743.92] reports more anxiety than a child psychiatric patient in the 1950s. That's remarkable. That is -[743.92 --> 749.46] heartbreaking. People are feeling hopeless, especially young people. They have little hope -[749.46 --> 755.08] for their futures and it is causing stress and anxiety and depression to degrees that we have not seen -[755.08 --> 765.82] before. Hope matters. We're becoming a people with increasingly less hope. Our culture is losing -[765.82 --> 769.92] hope in everything. We're losing hope in the government, whether you're a liberal, conservative, -[770.40 --> 775.54] democrat, republican, wherever you land on the spectrum, you have experienced hopelessness in our -[775.54 --> 780.82] nation's leaders recently. We're losing hope in the environment. Climate change is happening. Animals are -[780.82 --> 786.14] going extinct. Pollution levels are on the rise. Some of you feel like this is a hopeless situation and others -[786.14 --> 792.64] of you that don't feel this way, you feel hopeless in articulating your point of view. We're losing hope in our -[792.64 --> 799.08] economics. First-time home buyers, especially in this area, they're feeling crippled by the market and -[799.08 --> 805.32] people are running more and more frustrated with the economy in general. In fact, just this week, -[805.60 --> 812.52] the GameStop stock chaos that happened is just a perfect example of the attitude and the hopelessness -[812.52 --> 818.16] that people have surrounding the economy. That GameStop stock story, A, is just very hard to say. -[818.16 --> 823.54] B, Wall State really underestimated a generation raised on highly coordinated, synchronized World -[823.54 --> 832.56] of Warcraft raids. That's what I think happened. Back to the point. Polls everywhere are showing a -[832.56 --> 841.52] declining confidence in our future. And it is all due to a loss of hope in the things that we evidently put -[841.52 --> 850.92] our hope in. Hope matters. And it goes beyond simply losing our hope. We're beginning to become -[850.92 --> 858.24] enthralled, enthralled by hopelessness. Now hear me out here. The most popular books we read, the most -[858.24 --> 864.00] popular movies we watch, are not ones right now filled with joy and hope anymore. They are stories -[864.00 --> 870.50] where hopelessness reigns. Movies that take place in dystopian futures intrigue us because we relate to the -[870.50 --> 875.38] hopelessness of the characters and that the characters face in those circumstances. Book series -[875.38 --> 882.44] like The Hunger Games or Divergent, they do the same. We love stories with antiheroes. Marvel superhero -[882.44 --> 887.36] movies, sure, they broke bank this last decade, but the most highest grossing Marvel movie of all of -[887.36 --> 893.36] them was Deadpool, which featured a vengeful and ruthless antihero. Breaking Bad, probably the most -[893.36 --> 899.12] popular television show of the past decade. Also, its lead was an extremely immoral antihero. -[899.12 --> 905.36] This week I saw three trailers for three major movies coming out in 2021. Those three movies, -[905.68 --> 912.04] Dune, a dystopian future where humanity fights to survive, Godzilla vs. Kong, a movie that is -[912.04 --> 916.94] humanity's at the mercy of two giants fighting each other, and Greenland, an apocalyptic movie about -[916.94 --> 924.98] the end of the world due to comet fragments crashing towards the earth. So much hopelessness, -[924.98 --> 938.14] and we are drawn to it. So why does hopelessness reign so prevalently these days? Perhaps it's because -[938.14 --> 945.90] we keep putting our hope in the wrong things. That's precisely what Habakkuk learned throughout -[945.90 --> 950.96] this whole book. He was hoping for a solution to the circumstance that he found himself in. He was -[950.96 --> 959.34] hoping for a solution to the impending captivity that he was about to face. But what he got was not a -[959.34 --> 966.94] solution to that problem, but a reminder of God's promises, God's promises that are bigger than our -[966.94 --> 974.44] circumstances. What he got was a promise that God's redemption story is grander and more beautiful than -[974.44 --> 984.26] whatever story we want to plug ourselves into. What he got was a reminder that the story that God calls -[984.26 --> 994.36] us to be in is his story, the story of redemption. And that is a story that is just full of hope. -[994.36 --> 1003.76] I love this quote from Tim Keller again. He says this. He says, hope that enables us to face the worst in -[1003.76 --> 1008.84] this world depends on faith in something that transcends this world. -[1012.12 --> 1017.22] If we keep putting our hope in a different government or a new approach to climate change or -[1017.22 --> 1023.32] the stock market suddenly rising or falling or a new boyfriend or a new girlfriend or a new job -[1023.32 --> 1033.72] or a new identity crafted from this world, our hope is finite. It is small. It transcends nothing. -[1036.52 --> 1045.62] Hope that enables us to face the worst in this world depends on faith in something that transcends the world. -[1045.62 --> 1063.30] Hope that helps us to face the worst in this world. Habakkuk figured that out. His hope was no longer in crops or food or cattle or employment or his nation or himself or even this life. He was reminded that his hope must be in the Lord. -[1063.30 --> 1075.62] Now there is no event in our lives that puts hope to the test more than when we brush up against death. -[1076.98 --> 1086.40] When the reality of the shadow of death falls upon us or upon someone that we love, hope becomes so much more than an idea. -[1087.40 --> 1088.88] It becomes a reality. -[1088.88 --> 1099.46] The need for hope in something that transcends this life moves to the forefront of our minds when death is present. -[1100.40 --> 1106.92] When people are on their deathbed, for example, they welcome conversations with pastors, ministers, priests, elders, -[1107.16 --> 1110.12] even if they've never stepped in a church before in their life. -[1110.12 --> 1140.10] Death is not natural. -[1140.10 --> 1143.66] The death that he died was the death we all deserved. -[1144.94 --> 1154.24] But by raising to life on the third day, he defeated death once and for all until he comes again at the end of time to redeem all the cosmos for his glory. -[1156.70 --> 1161.04] Habakkuk's hope was in that future for him. -[1161.04 --> 1168.16] That future promise of the Messiah who would restore the world and bring justice to the injustice. -[1168.88 --> 1171.10] Bring peace to the warfare. -[1171.62 --> 1174.62] Bring life into a world full of death. -[1176.62 --> 1181.62] Brothers and sisters, we now live on this side of the empty tomb. -[1181.72 --> 1183.02] That was a future for Habakkuk. -[1183.28 --> 1185.80] It is a reality, a past event for us. -[1185.80 --> 1194.46] We know our risen Lord has accomplished justice and peace and eternal life, -[1194.64 --> 1203.54] and we hope in certainty for the fulfillment of these promises when our already victorious Savior -[1203.54 --> 1209.64] comes down from his heavenly seat at the right hand of God to restore all of creation to its final glory. -[1210.18 --> 1215.22] Then all who believed in him can rejoice in body and in soul forever. -[1215.74 --> 1218.76] That is our hope. -[1218.76 --> 1228.82] Believers in Christ, we are not simply hoping for some comfort for the life that we might have lost. -[1229.30 --> 1233.90] We can look towards this full restoration of the life that we wanted, -[1234.08 --> 1236.88] but could never have due to the sin and brokenness of this world. -[1237.12 --> 1239.36] Our hope is in so much more. -[1239.36 --> 1251.14] Other religions, they offer an afterlife that is primarily conditioned on people living morally and good lives. -[1252.42 --> 1256.66] But the salvation Christianity offers is not for good people, -[1257.50 --> 1261.94] but rather for people who understand and acknowledge that they are, and never will be, -[1262.56 --> 1267.26] good enough themselves and are desperately in need of a Savior. -[1267.26 --> 1276.14] Because of this, we don't have to approach death uncertain of whether we will be found worthy of eternal life or not, -[1277.20 --> 1284.92] but we can approach death confidently, knowing our Redeemer lives and our hope is secure. -[1286.16 --> 1287.50] We've seen this throughout history. -[1288.20 --> 1291.38] Dietrich Bonhoeffer was about to be executed for plotting against Hitler, -[1291.38 --> 1296.00] and he wrote that death is the supreme festival on the road to freedom. -[1296.00 --> 1299.08] At the end of his life, D.L. Moody wrote that, -[1299.20 --> 1301.08] Someday you will read that I am dead, he said. -[1301.42 --> 1302.34] Don't believe a word. -[1303.02 --> 1305.80] At that moment, I will be more alive than I am now. -[1307.72 --> 1310.34] The first martyr, Stephen, back in Acts chapter 7, -[1310.40 --> 1312.36] he's about to get stoned for witnessing the gospel, -[1312.46 --> 1313.94] and he looked up to the heavens and he said, -[1313.94 --> 1320.06] Behold, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God. -[1320.06 --> 1324.02] Our church has seen it too. -[1324.68 --> 1327.16] Two of our members passed away in December, -[1327.70 --> 1337.90] and yet both Dave and Brum were confident that their sure hope was in Christ. -[1339.36 --> 1342.36] That this life was simply the beginning. -[1342.98 --> 1343.92] They were sure of it. -[1344.56 --> 1346.04] We can be sure of it too. -[1346.04 --> 1351.22] We recognize that we are part of a more beautiful story, -[1351.38 --> 1353.02] a story that is already victorious, -[1353.24 --> 1355.22] and yet a story that is not concluded. -[1356.26 --> 1358.74] The conclusion comes with Christ's second coming, -[1358.82 --> 1361.00] where he will redeem all things once and for all. -[1361.38 --> 1362.64] That is our hope, -[1362.96 --> 1365.92] and it is an eternal hope. -[1369.50 --> 1370.34] Concluding with this, -[1370.38 --> 1371.18] as I mentioned earlier, -[1371.24 --> 1372.22] our hope is not earned. -[1372.98 --> 1374.04] Our hope is not bought. -[1374.04 --> 1376.18] Our hope is not even found, -[1376.26 --> 1378.56] because that presumes we need to search for it. -[1379.82 --> 1380.04] No. -[1380.50 --> 1382.06] Our hope is a gift. -[1382.20 --> 1385.80] It is a faith in our intimate relationship with Christ Jesus, -[1386.10 --> 1387.22] our Savior. -[1387.98 --> 1390.00] And this hope is available to everyone, -[1390.60 --> 1392.10] no matter their circumstance. -[1394.56 --> 1400.44] That is why Habakkuk could rejoice in the midst of his impending captivity. -[1400.44 --> 1404.06] That is why Christians can sing at funerals. -[1404.26 --> 1407.80] That is why we can be caught dancing in the dirge. -[1408.32 --> 1412.62] That is why we can be wrecked and worshiping. -[1413.66 --> 1416.80] Because our hope is secure in Christ. -[1417.96 --> 1418.28] Amen. -[1418.50 --> 1418.94] Let me pray. -[1420.48 --> 1425.42] Father God, we are so grateful for this eternal hope in you. -[1425.42 --> 1430.72] Lord, the gospel truths of Christ's life, death, and resurrection, -[1431.36 --> 1434.26] and the knowledge that we have that he will once come again, -[1434.32 --> 1435.22] he will soon come again. -[1436.06 --> 1437.12] That is our hope. -[1437.70 --> 1442.00] God, we ask for forgiveness when we put our hope in finite things. -[1443.52 --> 1444.96] May you convict us when we do. -[1446.26 --> 1449.96] Lord, will you draw us more in to your story, -[1449.96 --> 1453.82] your story of redemption for all of the cosmos. -[1454.22 --> 1459.08] And may we take this hope and apply it to our lives. -[1459.88 --> 1462.58] May we stop looking for hope in the wrong things, -[1462.80 --> 1465.64] and may we focus it solely on you. -[1465.90 --> 1467.54] We pray this in your name. -[1468.08 --> 1468.36] Amen. -[1468.36 --> 1468.48] Amen. diff --git a/Easter Sunday - April 17, 2022_summary.txt b/Easter Sunday - April 17, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d1909bd1d86f32818946a33208fa79056f6a4506..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Easter Sunday - April 17, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,92 +0,0 @@ -• Miracles and healing -• The sound of dry bones rattling and coming together -• Prophecy and prophesying to the breath -• God's power and ability to save, deliver, heal, and restore -• Coming alive from death -• Praise and worship -• God's love and character (reckless, never-ending, wonderful) -• Thanking and praising God for His love -• Praise and worship songs -• Easter Sunday celebration -• Welcome to worship and introduction of pastor Chris -• Empty tomb and resurrection of Christ -• Invitation to stand and receive God's greeting -• Opening prayer and song -• Reflection on Christ's resurrection and its significance -• Praise to God -• The resurrection of Christ -• The power and glory of God -• The church rejoicing in one voice -• Prayer and worship -• Gratitude for Jesus' sacrifice and life-giving power -• Prayer singing with repetition of names of Jesus and Christian titles -• Testimony of belief in the power of Jesus Christ -• Announcement about church budget and mission organization Edudaio -• Discussion on education rooted in the gospel for transformation -• Call to be a blessing to others as one has been blessed -• The significance of Christ's resurrection -• Easter celebration and the gift of salvation -• Symbolism of flowers as a reminder of God's love -• Surprises and gifts from God, including an unknown "surprise" to be revealed later in the day -• Jesus Storybook Bible and the story of Christ's resurrection -• Announcement of nominations for Office of Elder and Deacon -• Easter Sunday worship service -• Prayer for church leadership and guidance -• Prayers for specific individuals (Robin Baumann, Harry Feitzma) -• Prayers for people dealing with illness and those providing care -• Update on refugee sponsorship process for Sebastian and Sandy -• Prayers for the people of Ukraine, including comfort, protection, and peace -• Prayers for governments to quickly process new immigrants -• Prayer for courage and a change of heart for Russian leaders -• Reading from Mark 16 during worship service -• Discussion of the resurrection and its impact -• Change in cultural landscape and categorization of faith and fact -• Blurring of lines between sacred and secular -• Sense of disorientation and uncertainty in modern society -• Haunting longing for transcendence and more -• Tension between desire for spiritual certainty and skepticism -• Reference to the Gospel of Mark's ending as a response to cultural moment -• Discussion of the burial practices in ancient Israel and how Jesus' body was placed in a tomb -• Description of the discovery by Mary and Salome of an angel at the tomb, who tells them Jesus has risen -• Reflection on Mark's narrative style and ending, which leaves the reader with a sense of trembling and bewilderment -• Discussion of the human experience of faith and doubt, including the idea that believing does not come easily -• Description of the philosopher's view that doubting is an essential part of faith, and that we oscillate between faith and doubt -• Reflection on the nature of transcendence and how it can disrupt our carefully crafted understanding of reality -• Discussion of the mistake of seeing Easter as solely about God's power over sin and death -• The only possible reason early Christianity began and took its current shape is that Jesus' tomb was really empty -• Robert Louis Stevenson's story about people lighting street lamps illustrates the concept of punching holes in darkness, like Easter does with Christ's resurrection -• The resurrection brings hope and transformation to individuals, even if they are doubting or feeling brokenhearted -• The story of Easter is not about proving its truth, but about stirring faith and affecting hearts -• The empty tomb leads to rootedness, a firm truth and foundation, brought by Jesus' resurrection and present in liturgy, word, and sacrament -• The Lord's Supper is set because the tomb is empty, filling the hearts of believers with Christ's presence. -• Remembrance of Jesus' death and resurrection -• Participation in communion (bread and cup) as a proclamation of faith -• Invitation to come to the table regardless of faith level or attendance history -• Accommodations for gluten-free bread and seating arrangements -• Communion service including singing and reading from scripture -• Themes of sacrifice and debt paid by Jesus -• Worship and praise to God for love and redemption -• Expression of dependence on God through prayer and music -• Reiteration of faithfulness and steadfastness of God's love -• Use of musical instruments, specifically a guitar solo -• Hope in God's love and presence -• The power of faith to overcome fear and doubt -• The promise of salvation through Jesus Christ -• The assurance of eternal life and victory over death -• The joy and pride of trusting in God's goodness and love -• The confidence that comes from knowing God holds the future -• Final table and invitation for those who haven't been served -• Prayer to God, thanking him for the meal and asking for guidance and protection -• Invitation to stand for a closing blessing -• Blessing that asks God to be present in all aspects of life -• Repetition of "thank you" by the speaker -• Celebration of Christ's resurrection with praise and worship songs -• Shame and weight of sin -• Being buried alive under shame -• Rescued by a call to salvation -• Freedom from darkness into glorious day -• Becoming a citizen of heaven -• Healing from brokenness -• Love as the end -• Having a future with open eyes -• Redemption through Christ's name and love \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Easter Sunday - April 17, 2022_transcript.txt b/Easter Sunday - April 17, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 87d41c5c985c03b1dbdba89e4c94f3cdb9797acb..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Easter Sunday - April 17, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1310 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.70] I believe there's another miracle here in this room. -[7.58 --> 10.94] This is the sound of dry bones rattling. -[13.76 --> 17.86] This is the praise, make a dead man walk again. -[19.44 --> 22.74] Open the grave, I'm coming out. -[22.96 --> 25.62] I'm gonna live, gonna live again. -[25.62 --> 29.86] This is the sound of dry bones rattling. -[44.86 --> 55.18] Oh my God is able to save and deliver and heal and restore anything. -[55.62 --> 57.74] That he wants to. -[58.84 --> 65.62] And just as the metal was thrown on the bones of Elosho. -[65.96 --> 70.44] If there's anything that he can do. -[71.48 --> 74.62] And just as the stone there was rolled. -[74.86 --> 79.74] That the tomb in the garden would happen. -[79.74 --> 82.36] And God says to move. -[83.62 --> 87.22] I feel him moving now. -[87.36 --> 89.74] I feel him doing it now. -[89.74 --> 92.74] I feel him doing it now. -[92.74 --> 94.74] Doing it now. -[94.74 --> 96.74] Doing it now. -[96.74 --> 100.98] This is the sound of dry bones rattling. -[102.98 --> 107.82] Yeah, this is the praise, make a dead man walk again. -[109.74 --> 112.70] Open the grave, I'm calling out. -[112.96 --> 115.44] I'm gonna live, gonna live again. -[116.08 --> 119.02] Open the grave, I'm calling out. -[119.02 --> 122.02] I'm gonna live, gonna live again. -[122.02 --> 125.36] Open the grave, I'm calling out. -[125.36 --> 128.74] I'm gonna live, gonna live again. -[129.32 --> 132.58] This is the sound of dry bones rattling. -[132.58 --> 147.04] So I prophesied as I was commanded. -[147.88 --> 150.50] And as I was prophesying there was a noise. -[151.22 --> 152.30] A rattling sound. -[153.26 --> 154.84] And the bones came together. -[155.62 --> 156.38] Bone to bone. -[156.38 --> 160.64] I looked and tendons and flesh appeared on them. -[161.34 --> 162.60] And skin covered them. -[163.08 --> 164.42] But there was no breath in them. -[165.30 --> 166.60] Then he said to me, -[167.30 --> 168.62] Prophesy to the breath. -[169.60 --> 170.94] Prophesy, son of man. -[171.28 --> 172.24] And say to him, -[172.92 --> 176.36] This is what the sovereign Lord says. -[177.28 --> 180.12] Come, breath from the full winds. -[180.12 --> 186.12] And breathe into these slaves that they may live. -[186.38 --> 190.74] Live, live, drop on to the word of the Lord. -[190.74 --> 197.26] Live, live, drop on to the word of the Lord. -[197.26 --> 203.50] Live, live, drop on to the word of the Lord. -[203.56 --> 209.30] Yeah, yeah, yeah. -[209.78 --> 213.16] This is the sound of dry bones rattling. -[213.16 --> 217.66] Yeah, this is the praise -[217.66 --> 220.08] Make a dead man walk again -[220.08 --> 223.40] Hop in the crisis -[223.40 --> 224.84] I'm calling out -[224.84 --> 227.84] I'm gonna live, gonna live again -[227.84 --> 229.82] Hop in the crisis -[229.82 --> 231.18] I'm calling out -[231.18 --> 234.10] I'm gonna live, gonna live again -[234.10 --> 236.10] Hop in the crisis -[236.10 --> 237.50] I'm calling out -[237.50 --> 241.06] I'm gonna live, gonna live again -[241.06 --> 244.66] This is the sound of drum bombs rattling -[271.06 --> 297.38] There's no shadow you won't light up -[297.38 --> 299.86] Mountain you won't climb up -[299.86 --> 304.74] Coming after me -[304.74 --> 307.70] No wall you won't kick down -[307.70 --> 310.10] Lie you won't tear down -[310.10 --> 314.34] Coming after me -[314.34 --> 317.46] There's no shadow you won't light up -[317.46 --> 320.02] Mountain you won't climb up -[320.02 --> 324.42] Coming after me -[324.42 --> 327.38] No wall you won't kick down -[327.38 --> 329.78] Lie you won't tear down -[329.78 --> 331.78] Coming after me -[331.78 --> 335.62] Oh the overwhelming -[335.62 --> 337.62] Never ending -[337.62 --> 341.62] Reckless love of God -[341.62 --> 345.86] Oh it chases me down -[345.86 --> 347.86] Fights till I'm found -[347.86 --> 351.70] Leaves the 99 -[351.70 --> 353.70] And I couldn't earn it -[353.70 --> 355.70] And I couldn't earn it -[355.70 --> 356.58] I don't deserve it -[356.58 --> 361.54] Still you give yourself away -[361.54 --> 365.54] Oh the overwhelming -[365.54 --> 367.54] Never ending -[367.54 --> 369.54] Never ending -[369.54 --> 371.38] Reckless love of God -[371.38 --> 373.38] Oh -[373.38 --> 375.38] Oh -[375.38 --> 380.42] Thank you for your love -[380.42 --> 381.38] Thank you for your love -[381.38 --> 389.22] Thank you for your love -[389.22 --> 391.22] Oh what a Savior -[391.22 --> 393.22] Oh what a Savior -[393.22 --> 395.22] Oh -[395.22 --> 397.22] Isn't he wonderful -[397.22 --> 399.22] Isn't he wonderful -[399.22 --> 401.22] Sing hallelujah -[401.22 --> 403.22] Oh -[403.22 --> 405.22] Oh -[405.22 --> 407.22] Oh -[407.22 --> 411.22] Oh -[411.22 --> 413.22] Oh -[413.22 --> 415.22] Oh -[415.22 --> 417.22] Oh -[417.22 --> 419.22] Hallelujah -[419.22 --> 421.22] Oh -[421.22 --> 423.22] Oh -[423.22 --> 425.22] Oh -[425.22 --> 427.22] Oh -[427.22 --> 429.22] Oh -[429.22 --> 431.22] Oh -[431.22 --> 433.22] Oh -[433.22 --> 435.22] Oh -[435.22 --> 437.22] Oh -[437.22 --> 439.22] Oh -[439.22 --> 441.22] Oh -[441.22 --> 443.22] Oh -[443.22 --> 461.22] Oh -[461.22 --> 463.22] Oh -[463.22 --> 465.22] Oh -[465.22 --> 467.22] Oh -[467.22 --> 469.22] Oh -[469.22 --> 470.22] Oh -[470.22 --> 474.66] Nobody like you -[474.66 --> 479.44] No one beside you -[479.44 --> 481.14] No, no, no, no -[481.14 --> 482.20] Hey! -[483.78 --> 488.12] Now all the earth will shout your praise -[488.12 --> 490.66] Our hearts will cry -[490.66 --> 493.14] These bones will sing -[493.14 --> 500.82] Great are you, Lord -[500.82 --> 501.24] Sing -[501.24 --> 507.84] Now all the earth will shout your praise -[507.84 --> 510.32] Our hearts will cry -[510.32 --> 512.74] These bones will sing -[512.74 --> 519.46] Great are you, Lord -[519.46 --> 522.02] Sing -[522.02 --> 527.58] Now all the earth will shout your praise -[527.58 --> 530.02] Our hearts will cry -[530.02 --> 532.58] These bones will sing -[532.58 --> 539.70] Great are you, Lord -[539.70 --> 546.80] It's your breath in our lungs -[546.80 --> 550.16] So we pour out our praise -[550.16 --> 552.28] Pour out our praise -[552.28 --> 553.72] It's your breath -[553.72 --> 555.72] In our love -[555.72 --> 559.28] So we pour out our praise -[559.28 --> 560.28] So we pour out our praise -[560.28 --> 562.28] It's your breath in our lungs -[562.28 --> 565.78] So we pour out our praise -[565.78 --> 571.34] So we pour out our praise -[571.34 --> 575.34] It's your breath in our lungs -[575.34 --> 577.34] So we pour out our praise -[577.34 --> 584.96] We pour out our praise -[584.96 --> 585.90] And we pour out our praise -[585.90 --> 586.90] And we pour out our praise -[586.90 --> 588.02] And we pour out our praise -[588.02 --> 588.90] Our hearts will cry -[588.90 --> 590.44] These bones will sing -[590.44 --> 592.90] Great are you, Lord -[592.90 --> 594.90] Say -[594.90 --> 598.46] Are you, Lord -[598.46 --> 600.46] Say -[600.46 --> 605.46] Or the earth will shout -[605.46 --> 608.46] Our hearts will shout -[608.46 --> 611.46] These bones will sing -[611.46 --> 616.46] Great are you, Lord -[616.46 --> 622.02] Good morning -[622.02 --> 624.42] Good morning -[624.42 --> 627.02] Christ is risen -[627.02 --> 630.02] Christ has resucitado -[630.02 --> 636.84] Oh, did the Spanish make it up there for your response too? -[637.30 --> 638.02] No? -[638.02 --> 638.76] All right -[638.76 --> 641.10] Happy Easter, everyone -[641.10 --> 642.52] Felicis Pascuas -[642.52 --> 648.52] Welcome to worship on this amazing Easter Sunday -[648.52 --> 653.12] This is my absolute favorite Sunday of the year -[653.12 --> 655.58] If you are visiting with us -[655.58 --> 656.36] My name is Chris -[656.36 --> 658.08] And I'm one of the pastors here -[658.08 --> 660.30] And it's my privilege along with these others -[660.30 --> 663.98] And a few yet more whom you will see later on -[663.98 --> 668.36] To lead us in our Easter worship this morning -[668.36 --> 674.16] We come here to worship our good God -[674.16 --> 679.44] We come here because the tomb is empty -[679.44 --> 683.70] And so let's worship our God -[683.70 --> 685.16] I'm going to invite you as you're able -[685.16 --> 687.00] And where you are just to stand -[687.00 --> 690.24] We can be welcomed into God's presence together -[690.24 --> 698.76] On this Easter Sunday -[698.76 --> 701.24] God is here -[701.24 --> 704.44] And so receive his greeting -[704.44 --> 708.58] Grace, mercy, and peace to you -[708.58 --> 710.00] From God our Father -[710.00 --> 713.44] Through Jesus Christ our risen Lord -[713.44 --> 717.52] By the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit -[717.52 --> 719.22] Here in this place -[719.22 --> 720.94] We worship God -[720.94 --> 721.86] Amen -[721.86 --> 723.80] Let's sing this morning -[723.80 --> 728.02] This Easter morning we come to you, Lord -[728.02 --> 730.02] With gratefulness and wonder -[730.02 --> 733.04] With awe at your power to save -[733.04 --> 736.30] This morning we want to follow the woman to the tomb -[736.30 --> 738.50] We want to hear the surprising words -[738.50 --> 739.92] He is not here -[739.92 --> 742.88] We want to kneel before Christ -[742.88 --> 744.70] With joy and thankfulness -[744.70 --> 747.02] And we want to leave here bursting -[747.02 --> 749.16] With good tidings of great joy -[749.16 --> 751.60] Which shall be for all people -[751.60 --> 753.66] Christ is risen -[753.66 --> 755.40] He is risen -[755.40 --> 758.68] As we sing this song -[758.68 --> 761.70] All the children who have gotten flowers -[761.70 --> 763.24] Are welcome to bring them up -[763.24 --> 765.36] To put them in the vases up front here -[765.36 --> 767.52] And if you didn't get a flower -[767.52 --> 768.68] When you came in -[768.68 --> 770.86] I see that Mrs. Nicky put in some flowers up front -[770.86 --> 772.86] So please feel free to grab one -[772.86 --> 774.18] And put them in the vase -[774.18 --> 786.60] The people of the risen King -[786.60 --> 790.58] Who delight to bring Him praise -[790.58 --> 795.34] Come all into your hearts to sing -[795.34 --> 799.20] To the morning star of praise -[799.20 --> 804.00] From the shifting shadows of the earth -[804.00 --> 807.84] We will lift our eyes to Him -[807.84 --> 812.46] Where steady are the remehive -[812.46 --> 833.04] Rejoice, rejoice, let every son rejoice, one God, one voice, the Church of Christ rejoice. -[833.04 --> 834.04] Amen. -[863.04 --> 875.16] His blessings never seem, but follow us through all the days to serve to know our peace. -[876.60 --> 891.84] Rejoice, rejoice, let every son rejoice, one voice, one voice, the Church of Christ rejoice. -[893.04 --> 894.04] Amen. -[923.04 --> 933.28] The truth that Christ knew every inch our God is all in all. -[934.04 --> 945.04] Rejoice, rejoice, let every son rejoice, one heart, one voice. -[945.04 --> 949.04] Rejoice, rejoice, O Church of Christ rejoice. -[951.04 --> 963.14] Rejoice, rejoice, let every son rejoice, one heart, one voice. -[963.14 --> 969.42] Rejoice, rejoice, let every son rejoice. -[969.42 --> 975.18] Rejoice, rejoice, let every son rejoice. -[975.18 --> 1005.16] I love you. -[1005.18 --> 1035.16] I love you. -[1035.18 --> 1065.16] I love you. -[1065.18 --> 1095.16] I love you. -[1095.18 --> 1125.16] I love you. -[1125.18 --> 1155.16] I love you. -[1155.16 --> 1156.92] He is alive. -[1156.96 --> 1158.66] He is alive. -[1160.26 --> 1163.50] Christ the Lord is risen today. -[1166.20 --> 1168.40] He is alive. -[1185.16 --> 1215.14] He is alive. -[1215.16 --> 1216.24] He is alive. -[1216.24 --> 1217.24] He is alive. -[1218.38 --> 1220.24] He is alive. -[1220.24 --> 1221.24] He is alive. -[1221.24 --> 1223.36] He is alive. -[1223.36 --> 1226.36] He is alive. -[1226.36 --> 1227.78] He is alive. -[1227.78 --> 1228.18] He is alive. -[1228.18 --> 1229.18] He is alive. -[1229.18 --> 1231.64] I sing the wisdom. -[1231.64 --> 1235.56] That ordained the sun. -[1235.56 --> 1238.58] To rule the day. -[1238.58 --> 1243.74] The moon shines full at his command. -[1243.74 --> 1247.82] And all the stars obey. -[1249.82 --> 1254.44] Our God is great and mighty. -[1254.82 --> 1259.90] Our God is Lord of all. -[1259.90 --> 1264.42] For he is God almighty. -[1264.98 --> 1269.38] Ruler of all. -[1269.98 --> 1270.98] Our God. -[1270.98 --> 1282.06] Our God is great and mighty. -[1282.06 --> 1285.14] Our God is great and mighty. -[1285.14 --> 1287.14] Our God is great and mighty. -[1287.14 --> 1289.14] Our God is great and mighty. -[1289.14 --> 1294.22] He born of creatures with his word. -[1294.22 --> 1299.22] And then pronounce them good. -[1299.22 --> 1303.22] Lord, how thy wonders are displayed. -[1303.22 --> 1308.30] For our God is great and mighty. -[1308.30 --> 1311.38] If I surveyed. -[1311.38 --> 1311.58] If I surveyed. -[1311.58 --> 1313.60] The ground I tread. -[1313.60 --> 1319.38] For gaze upon the sky. -[1319.38 --> 1324.46] Our God is great and mighty. -[1324.46 --> 1329.46] Our God is Lord of all. -[1329.46 --> 1334.46] For he is God almighty. -[1334.46 --> 1338.46] Ruler of all. -[1338.46 --> 1340.32] Ruler of all. -[1340.32 --> 1343.92] There is God of glad or flower below. -[1343.92 --> 1344.02] Ruler of all. -[1344.02 --> 1348.38] But makes your glories known. -[1348.38 --> 1353.88] And clouds arise and tempers glow. -[1353.88 --> 1358.42] By order from your throne. -[1358.42 --> 1365.56] Our God is great and mighty -[1365.56 --> 1370.56] Our God is Lord of all -[1370.56 --> 1375.40] For he is God almighty -[1375.40 --> 1379.56] Luler of all -[1380.12 --> 1383.04] Our God -[1383.04 --> 1387.56] Our God -[1387.56 --> 1393.70] Our God -[1417.56 --> 1421.48] Let's come together in a word of prayer -[1421.48 --> 1426.42] Gracious God -[1426.42 --> 1428.84] We worship you -[1428.84 --> 1430.84] Our risen Savior -[1430.84 --> 1433.62] We celebrate today -[1433.62 --> 1436.26] The greatest day in human history -[1436.26 --> 1438.64] The first Easter morning -[1438.64 --> 1440.84] When the tomb was found empty -[1440.84 --> 1443.10] And our Redeemer lives -[1443.10 --> 1446.36] We are reminded today -[1446.36 --> 1447.86] That you, Jesus -[1447.86 --> 1449.82] Gave your very life -[1449.82 --> 1452.84] And endured so much suffering -[1452.84 --> 1455.30] That we might draw near to you -[1455.30 --> 1457.68] And have everlasting life with you -[1457.68 --> 1461.08] We have witnessed your mighty power -[1461.08 --> 1463.74] And we stand amazed -[1463.74 --> 1466.68] Deepen our faith, Lord -[1466.68 --> 1468.50] And enable us -[1468.50 --> 1470.38] By Christ's resurrection power -[1470.38 --> 1473.24] To live no longer for ourselves -[1473.24 --> 1475.36] Or as slaves to sin -[1475.36 --> 1477.92] But for you who died -[1477.92 --> 1480.12] And rose again on our behalf -[1480.12 --> 1482.66] In your name -[1482.66 --> 1483.38] Christ -[1483.38 --> 1484.32] Our Lord -[1484.32 --> 1485.06] We pray -[1485.06 --> 1486.20] Amen -[1486.20 --> 1489.44] Please stand and sing with us -[1489.44 --> 1490.16] Amen -[1490.16 --> 1492.36] Listen build creined -[1492.36 --> 1492.64] Amen -[1492.64 --> 1492.94] Aloha -[1492.94 --> 1493.72] Anger -[1493.72 --> 1494.26] Amen -[1494.26 --> 1494.90] моз -[1494.90 --> 1496.92] �ן -[1496.92 --> 1498.12] Eくobic -[1498.12 --> 1499.26] Bsek -[1499.26 --> 1500.42] Caleb -[1500.42 --> 1501.42] Amen. -[1530.42 --> 1542.18] Love so amazing, love so amazing. -[1542.18 --> 1556.18] Jesus, Messiah, name above all names. -[1556.18 --> 1564.72] Blessed Redeemer, Emmanuel. -[1564.72 --> 1577.72] The rescue for sinners, the ransom from heaven. -[1577.72 --> 1590.26] Jesus, Messiah, Lord of all. -[1590.26 --> 1598.96] bury the prayer, his blood the water. -[1599.46 --> 1604.80] Broken and llorned, all for love. -[1604.80 --> 1611.98] Hold her and share, Lord of all the vegetables. -[1611.98 --> 1615.64] That's so amazing -[1615.64 --> 1621.14] That's so amazing -[1621.14 --> 1627.02] Jesus, Messiah -[1627.02 --> 1633.98] Name above all names -[1633.98 --> 1638.60] Blessed Redeemer -[1638.60 --> 1642.68] Emmanuel -[1642.68 --> 1649.68] Your rescue for sinners -[1649.68 --> 1655.26] The ransom of heaven -[1655.26 --> 1660.58] Jesus, Messiah -[1660.58 --> 1666.82] Lord of all -[1666.82 --> 1673.90] All our hope is in You -[1673.90 --> 1679.90] All our hope is in You -[1679.90 --> 1684.90] All the glory to You -[1684.90 --> 1691.98] The light of the world -[1691.98 --> 1696.98] Jesus, Messiah -[1696.98 --> 1704.98] Name above all names -[1704.98 --> 1709.06] Blessed Redeemer -[1709.06 --> 1713.14] Emmanuel -[1713.14 --> 1714.14] Emmanuel -[1714.14 --> 1716.14] Emmanuel -[1716.14 --> 1720.14] The rescue for sinners -[1720.14 --> 1726.14] The ransom from heaven -[1726.14 --> 1731.22] Jesus, Messiah -[1731.22 --> 1733.22] Jesus, Messiah -[1733.22 --> 1737.22] Lord of all -[1737.22 --> 1741.22] Jesus, Messiah -[1741.22 --> 1743.22] Lord of all -[1743.22 --> 1748.30] Lord of all -[1748.30 --> 1750.30] Lord of all -[1750.30 --> 1757.38] Lord of all -[1757.38 --> 1759.38] Amen -[1759.38 --> 1761.38] Amen -[1761.38 --> 1763.38] Amen -[1763.38 --> 1774.46] Amen -[1774.46 --> 1776.46] Amen -[1776.46 --> 1791.54] Amen -[1791.54 --> 1793.54] Amen -[1793.54 --> 1795.54] Amen -[1795.54 --> 1797.54] Amen -[1797.54 --> 1799.54] Amen -[1799.54 --> 1801.54] Amen -[1801.54 --> 1803.54] Amen -[1803.54 --> 1820.62] Amen -[1820.62 --> 1822.62] Amen -[1822.62 --> 1824.62] Amen -[1824.62 --> 1826.62] Amen -[1826.62 --> 1828.62] Amen -[1828.62 --> 1830.62] Amen -[1830.62 --> 1851.50] Amen -[1851.70 --> 1852.84] Amen -[1852.84 --> 1853.58] Amen -[1853.58 --> 1863.58] My King is killed in His name, I believe, I believe. -[1866.58 --> 1874.46] I'll raise the banner, my Lord has conquered the grave. -[1874.46 --> 1901.46] My Redeemer lives, my Redeemer lives, my Redeemer lives. -[1901.46 --> 1906.46] My Redeemer lives, my Redeemer lives. -[1908.46 --> 1916.46] You lift my burdens, I'll rise with you. -[1916.46 --> 1925.46] Dancing on this mountain town to see your kingdom come. -[1925.46 --> 1934.46] My Redeemer lives, my Redeemer lives. -[1934.46 --> 1943.46] My Redeemer lives, my Redeemer lives. -[1943.46 --> 1950.46] My Redeemer, my Redeemer lives. -[1950.46 --> 1956.46] My Redeemer lives, my Redeemer lives. -[1956.46 --> 1961.46] My Redeemer lives. -[1961.46 --> 1968.46] I beg you to be seated. -[1968.46 --> 1989.46] I beg you to be seated. -[1989.46 --> 1990.46] I beg you to be seated. -[1991.46 --> 1994.46] My Redeemer lives are for the budget of our church and Edudaio. -[1994.46 --> 2003.46] Their mission is to advance Christ-centered education for children worldwide by promoting sustainable schools, -[2003.46 --> 2012.46] partnering long-term with school associations and mission organizations that share their vision of evangelism. -[2012.46 --> 2016.06] Canadian office is in Hamilton, Ontario. -[2016.84 --> 2018.84] What are facts without wisdom? -[2019.46 --> 2028.68] We believe education rooted in the gospel is the best way to bring about transformation for children and their communities. -[2029.60 --> 2032.44] Please be a blessing as you have been blessed. -[2033.08 --> 2036.80] Next week's offerings are for budget and gems. -[2042.46 --> 2046.46] Angans -[2072.46 --> 2075.16] in your eyes -[2075.16 --> 2077.58] to fulfill the law -[2077.58 --> 2078.64] and prophets -[2078.64 --> 2080.60] to a virgin -[2080.60 --> 2082.50] in the world -[2082.50 --> 2085.04] from a throne of endless -[2085.04 --> 2087.24] glory to a -[2087.24 --> 2089.92] cradle in the dirt -[2089.92 --> 2095.20] praise -[2097.46 --> 2098.30] the -[2098.30 --> 2100.52] presence -[2102.90 --> 2104.70] the -[2105.40 --> 2106.72] providers -[2106.72 --> 2108.20] see -[2108.20 --> 2109.40] your -[2109.40 --> 2110.70] law -[2110.70 --> 2112.10] are -[2112.10 --> 2112.74] the -[2112.74 --> 2112.82] � -[2112.82 --> 2114.52] the -[2114.52 --> 2116.52] truth -[2116.52 --> 2125.52] Grace for it has come and all come to me -[2125.52 --> 2132.98] To reveal the kingdom coming -[2132.98 --> 2136.72] And to reconcile the lost -[2136.72 --> 2139.98] To redeem the whole creation -[2139.98 --> 2143.84] You did not despise the cross -[2143.84 --> 2147.24] For even in your suffering -[2147.24 --> 2150.96] You saw to the other side -[2150.96 --> 2154.30] Knowing this was our salvation -[2154.30 --> 2158.76] Jesus for our sake you died -[2158.76 --> 2167.40] Raise the fire -[2167.40 --> 2170.90] Raise the sun -[2170.90 --> 2174.30] Raise the spirit -[2174.30 --> 2177.70] Three in one -[2177.70 --> 2181.42] God of glory -[2181.42 --> 2183.76] His majesty -[2183.76 --> 2189.70] Praise forever to the King -[2189.70 --> 2200.86] And the morning that you rose -[2200.86 --> 2204.44] All of heaven held its bread -[2204.44 --> 2208.00] Till the storm was moved for good -[2208.00 --> 2211.82] For the Lamb had conquered death -[2211.82 --> 2215.40] And the dead rose from their tombs -[2215.40 --> 2218.80] And the angels stood in awe -[2218.80 --> 2222.42] For the souls of all who come -[2222.42 --> 2225.86] To the Father are restored -[2225.86 --> 2229.36] And the church of Christ was born -[2229.36 --> 2233.00] Then we learned it with the faith -[2233.00 --> 2236.36] Now the gospel truth of all -[2236.36 --> 2239.84] Shall not fear, shall not fade -[2239.84 --> 2243.24] By His blood and in His name -[2243.24 --> 2246.96] It is freedom I am free -[2246.96 --> 2250.22] For the love of Jesus Christ -[2250.22 --> 2253.24] Who has resurrected me -[2253.24 --> 2262.06] Praise the Father -[2262.06 --> 2262.78] Praise the Father -[2262.78 --> 2265.08] Praise the Spirit -[2265.08 --> 2269.52] Praise the Spirit -[2269.52 --> 2272.80] Free in one -[2272.80 --> 2276.50] God of glory -[2276.50 --> 2279.14] His majesty -[2279.14 --> 2280.34] Praise the Lord -[2280.34 --> 2287.32] Praise forever to the King -[2287.40 --> 2291.18] Praise the Father -[2291.18 --> 2294.48] Praise forever to the King -[2294.48 --> 2295.20] Chancellor -[2295.20 --> 2296.82] Amen -[2296.82 --> 2311.68] You know what? -[2311.70 --> 2314.96] We're going to sit over here today because I just think that's a little squishy over there. -[2320.28 --> 2321.00] All right. -[2326.82 --> 2331.58] It's Easter today. -[2332.24 --> 2334.70] I don't know the Easter eggs in South. -[2335.64 --> 2337.20] I'm not with Easter today. -[2337.26 --> 2338.56] You knew what Easter was today. -[2338.60 --> 2339.10] Well, that's good. -[2339.48 --> 2340.68] You all knew that already. -[2340.68 --> 2341.12] I'm not with Easter. -[2341.12 --> 2342.56] I'm not with Easter today. -[2343.78 --> 2344.66] I'm not with Easter today. -[2345.12 --> 2347.18] I'm not with Easter today. -[2347.32 --> 2348.26] Very exciting. -[2348.44 --> 2355.16] So I want you guys to take a quick look over at all the flowers that you guys helped to contribute. -[2355.16 --> 2364.32] So what I really like about the flower offering is it reminds me first about something really beautiful that God did for us. -[2365.32 --> 2367.30] What do you think it is, Zoe? -[2370.02 --> 2372.90] Yeah, that Jesus died for our sins and that he rose again. -[2373.34 --> 2377.54] And it also reminds me that there is something beautiful that we can do for God. -[2377.54 --> 2379.70] And that looks really beautiful. -[2379.90 --> 2384.28] And we can say thank you to God for the beautiful thing that he has done. -[2384.34 --> 2388.90] And that kind of reminds me of how we can respond to that gift God has given us. -[2389.96 --> 2391.44] So I have a bag here. -[2392.38 --> 2394.00] It's a bag of secret stuff. -[2394.14 --> 2395.28] That's pretty accurate. -[2395.40 --> 2396.20] So I have this bag. -[2397.44 --> 2398.90] I do like secret stuff. -[2398.90 --> 2402.58] Who knows what a surprise is? -[2402.64 --> 2404.48] Put your hand up if you know what a surprise is. -[2405.14 --> 2406.32] Who likes surprises? -[2406.72 --> 2407.48] Keep your hand up. -[2407.54 --> 2409.46] Yeah, you like it when someone surprises you? -[2409.74 --> 2413.38] Or would you, who would rather know about something and not be surprised? -[2413.80 --> 2413.98] Yeah. -[2414.34 --> 2414.86] Some of you. -[2416.38 --> 2418.50] I would rather know usually too. -[2418.68 --> 2420.42] I don't really like surprises that much. -[2420.84 --> 2421.76] You know what it is. -[2421.86 --> 2423.44] Well, Easter eggs. -[2423.54 --> 2424.26] Not Easter eggs. -[2424.26 --> 2428.30] So in here I have a bag of a surprise. -[2428.76 --> 2430.80] And we're going to open it when we get to the big room. -[2431.22 --> 2432.86] Because I'm going to make you wait a little bit longer. -[2433.18 --> 2436.70] Because today we are going to be talking about God's wonderful surprise. -[2437.02 --> 2439.92] That's the name of our story from the Jesus Storybook Bible. -[2440.80 --> 2445.32] And for the disciples and for all of the people, the wonderful surprise was what? -[2445.40 --> 2449.16] That Jesus had risen from the tomb and that it was empty. -[2449.66 --> 2453.42] So let's pray together and then we're going to go right away to children's worship time. -[2454.74 --> 2459.04] Lord Jesus, thank you for this day where we can celebrate that you rose from the dead. -[2459.44 --> 2463.48] Thank you for that amazing and beautiful gift that you gave for each one of us here. -[2464.32 --> 2468.78] Please help us to open our hearts to what you have to teach us today -[2468.78 --> 2471.68] as we learn more through church and children's worship time. -[2472.02 --> 2472.24] Amen. -[2472.24 --> 2472.38] Amen. -[2484.26 --> 2487.90] Amen. -[2487.92 --> 2488.48] Amen. -[2508.56 --> 2510.48] Amen. -[2510.48 --> 2529.46] Is this working? -[2529.46 --> 2537.62] Good morning. -[2537.72 --> 2538.56] My name is Glenn Nort. -[2538.56 --> 2543.16] I'm one of the elders here at Emanuel Church, and it's my privilege this morning to lead -[2543.16 --> 2545.04] you in our church family prayer. -[2545.04 --> 2549.04] Before we go to prayer, we have one announcement. -[2549.04 --> 2554.96] We are still looking for nominations for the Office of Elder and Deacon for this church. -[2554.96 --> 2558.52] So that process is open until April 26th. -[2558.52 --> 2562.98] So if there is somebody that you would like to nominate, please be sure to do that this -[2562.98 --> 2563.98] week. -[2563.98 --> 2567.80] And your nominations can be submitted to your district elder or to the church office. -[2567.80 --> 2572.40] So let's go to God in prayer. -[2572.40 --> 2573.40] Amen. -[2573.40 --> 2574.40] Amen. -[2574.40 --> 2575.40] Amen. -[2575.40 --> 2576.40] Amen. -[2576.40 --> 2577.40] Amen. -[2577.40 --> 2578.40] Amen. -[2578.40 --> 2582.56] We come to you this Easter Sunday with joy in our hearts as we gather to worship and -[2582.56 --> 2586.64] we celebrate our risen Savior, Christ Jesus. -[2586.64 --> 2591.64] We thank you that he willingly bore our sin and iniquity upon himself, in obedience to your -[2591.64 --> 2598.46] command, and took our sin and iniquity to the cross, which we deserve. -[2598.46 --> 2605.18] We pray that you grant us the power to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the -[2605.18 --> 2611.38] love of Christ and to know this love that surpasses knowledge. -[2611.38 --> 2616.40] Lord Jesus we celebrate your resurrection on this Easter Sunday and acknowledge your -[2616.40 --> 2620.48] victory over sin and death. -[2620.48 --> 2625.68] We acknowledge that all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to you and we -[2625.68 --> 2632.44] take comfort knowing that you have promised to be with us to the very end of the age. -[2632.44 --> 2637.92] Lord Jesus help us as your church through the power of the Holy Spirit to live in obedience -[2637.92 --> 2644.02] to your command to make disciples of all nations. -[2644.02 --> 2648.44] Bless the leadership of our local church with wisdom as it seeks to discern your will for -[2648.44 --> 2652.64] this church on an ongoing basis. -[2652.64 --> 2657.24] As the terms of some of our elders and deacons will end soon, we ask that you provide people -[2657.24 --> 2662.08] who are willing to fill these roles of service. -[2662.08 --> 2668.32] This morning we ask that you comfort Robin Baumann who recently lost her father due to illness. -[2668.32 --> 2675.90] Grant Robin and her family your peace and your presence as they grieve. -[2675.90 --> 2680.50] We thank you that Harry Feitzma could return home after spending some time in the hospital -[2680.50 --> 2682.66] with pneumonia. -[2682.66 --> 2687.46] Grant him a full and quick recovery. -[2687.46 --> 2693.28] Bless all those who deal with illness, whether physical illness, mental illness. -[2693.28 --> 2699.72] Lord we pray that they experience your comforting presence as they cope with their illness. -[2699.72 --> 2707.88] We thank you for all who provide care, whether they be family members or healthcare professionals. -[2707.88 --> 2714.94] We ask that you strengthen and encourage them as they care for their loved ones or patients. -[2714.94 --> 2722.12] We thank you that Sebastian, Sandy and their children are eligible now to apply for refugee status. -[2722.12 --> 2728.98] Bless this process and bless the refugee sponsorship committee and other groups within our church -[2728.98 --> 2733.28] denomination as they work through this process. -[2733.28 --> 2739.54] We pray that you relieve any stress that Sebastian and Sandy may have as they wait for things to -[2739.54 --> 2741.38] unfold. -[2741.38 --> 2745.60] Grant them your peace. -[2745.60 --> 2749.38] We continue to lift up the people of Ukraine to you. -[2749.38 --> 2753.34] Comfort those who mourn the loss of loved ones. -[2753.34 --> 2757.86] Watch over the millions of people who have been displaced. -[2757.86 --> 2764.14] Bless all who are involved in providing food and shelter to those who are displaced. -[2764.14 --> 2770.38] Where refugee sponsorship is an option for displaced people, we pray that governments around the -[2770.38 --> 2777.12] world may move quickly to process new immigrants. -[2777.12 --> 2784.26] Strengthen and encourage the Ukrainians who stayed behind to fight against the invading army. -[2784.26 --> 2789.32] Give them courage that they need to resist this invasion. -[2789.32 --> 2795.92] And ultimately Lord, we ask that the Russian leaders will have a change of heart and exit -[2795.92 --> 2798.16] the Ukraine. -[2798.16 --> 2804.90] We pray for an end to the bloodshed and the destruction and ask for lasting peace in this -[2804.90 --> 2806.90] region. -[2806.90 --> 2811.14] Father, we thank you for your word. -[2811.14 --> 2815.94] And as we read it and study it this morning, we ask that you bless Pastor Chris with insight -[2815.94 --> 2818.02] and wisdom. -[2818.02 --> 2823.68] Our prayer is that all who worship here today will meet Jesus through the power of the Holy -[2823.68 --> 2824.68] Spirit. -[2824.68 --> 2825.68] Amen. -[2828.16 --> 2845.72] Have a Bible handy. -[2845.72 --> 2851.32] I'm going to invite you to open it up to Mark 16. -[2851.32 --> 2859.92] We're going to read that together and spend some time looking at what Mark has to say there. -[2859.92 --> 2860.92] Amen. -[2860.92 --> 2875.54] With our Bibles open together, let's read the end of Mark. -[2875.54 --> 2875.92] Amen. -[2875.92 --> 2876.92] Amen. -[2876.92 --> 2877.92] Amen. -[2877.92 --> 2878.92] Amen. -[2878.92 --> 2879.92] Amen. -[2879.92 --> 2880.92] Amen. -[2880.92 --> 2881.92] Amen. -[2881.92 --> 2882.12] Amen. -[2882.12 --> 2884.12] Amen. -[2884.12 --> 2885.12] Amen. -[2885.22 --> 2885.94] Amen. -[2885.94 --> 2886.14] Amen. -[2886.14 --> 2887.24] Amen. -[2887.24 --> 2887.32] Amen. -[2887.38 --> 2889.30] Amen. -[2890.30 --> 2890.78] Amen. -[2890.78 --> 2894.84] Amen. -[2898.84 --> 2900.58] Good wind. -[2900.58 --> 2900.94] Amen. -[2900.94 --> 2901.96] Amen. -[2901.96 --> 2903.04] Amen. -[2903.04 --> 2903.12] Amen. -[2903.12 --> 2905.20] Amen. -[2905.40 --> 2907.48] Amen. -[2907.48 --> 2909.40] Amen. -[2909.40 --> 2910.36] Amen. -[2910.36 --> 2917.74] large had been rolled away. As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white -[2917.74 --> 2925.98] robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed. Don't be alarmed, he said. You are looking -[2925.98 --> 2936.02] for Jesus, the Nazarene, who was crucified. He is risen. He is not here. See the place where they lay -[2936.02 --> 2944.08] him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter, he is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see -[2944.08 --> 2954.60] him just as he told you. Trembling and bewildered, the women went out and fled the tomb. They said -[2954.60 --> 2960.08] nothing to anyone because they were afraid. This is the word of the Lord. -[2966.02 --> 2976.04] Now, I don't know how much you may have experienced this or how well you've been able to put your finger -[2976.04 --> 2987.32] on it, but something has changed. Something is different. Now, before you jump to conclusions -[2987.32 --> 2991.98] and assume that you know what I'm talking about here, right, I'm not just talking about the tomb of -[2991.98 --> 2999.92] Jesus being empty, right, as if we can really just talk about the empty tomb, right? There's really no -[2999.92 --> 3004.50] way to overstate the impact and the meaning of the resurrection, and we'll come back to that. -[3005.18 --> 3015.72] But right now, I am talking about something else. Something in the air. Something has changed, -[3015.72 --> 3021.30] and I bet for most of us, we can feel it more than we can describe it. -[3024.04 --> 3031.40] We live in the change. We live this change more than we can define it. -[3033.08 --> 3037.84] But if you are a Christian and you're here with us this morning, in person or online, -[3038.28 --> 3045.58] maybe you feel it just a little bit heavier in moments like this, right? As the gather for Easter -[3045.58 --> 3051.88] worship and the weight of glory settles just a little bit heavier on our shoulders and in our -[3051.88 --> 3058.88] hearts. But, and here's what we're beginning to see, right, that as the same time as our hearts and -[3058.88 --> 3067.04] minds are being pulled up in worship, it seems that our feet are being pulled under the sinking sand of -[3067.04 --> 3074.18] the ground, right? Our imaginations are being stretched out towards the transcendent, even as the frame below -[3074.18 --> 3084.36] holds us back. Because you see, it used to be easier, or at least it used to be more clear, -[3085.56 --> 3091.44] right? It used to be simpler. As a world, as a culture, we used to know what was up and what was -[3091.44 --> 3097.28] down, right? The lines used to be drawn more clearly. We knew what was sacred and we knew what was -[3097.28 --> 3103.94] secular, right? It used to be that we had a religious sphere and a public sphere, even if there -[3103.94 --> 3109.46] was a few outliers and some crossover. The basic definitions that function in our world together -[3109.46 --> 3115.14] were clear. You had faith and you had fact, right? And whether you saw them in agreement or in a -[3115.14 --> 3122.40] juxtaposition, the categories held fast. Now, maybe some of you still see the world like that, -[3122.40 --> 3128.94] right? It's a sort of binary. It's either or. It's one or the other. But for most of us living today in -[3128.94 --> 3139.14] the 21st century western world, something has changed. Now, if you're under 40, you have a sense -[3139.14 --> 3147.08] of what I'm talking about and maybe you can remember the loss. If you're under 30, you only know that sense -[3147.08 --> 3153.56] as somebody else's history. And if you're under 20, you can't imagine the world any different -[3153.56 --> 3160.60] because this is all you know, right? The once neat categories of faith and fact have blurred and have -[3160.60 --> 3168.44] blended what was once either or exists now in the struggle of both and, of yes and everything and no -[3168.44 --> 3177.72] and nothing all at the same time. And maybe that's the best way to describe the change, right? At the exact -[3177.72 --> 3187.50] time that I know this or that thing to be true, right then I know it to be impossible, right? My heart -[3187.50 --> 3194.64] longs for something more. It longs for eternity, for transcendence, for something bigger and beyond me. And yet, -[3194.64 --> 3199.96] at exactly the same time that that longing exists in me, the world feels closed. -[3202.62 --> 3210.60] In the day-to-day of life and faith, the system is small. It's too small, really. Everything I could -[3210.60 --> 3217.20] ever need is a DM or a text or a tweet away, right? I can skip the dishes, I can get Uber Eats, I can -[3217.20 --> 3221.32] Google or Amazon it, and it can be at my door within 12 hours if I have a Prime account. -[3221.32 --> 3227.30] But somehow, my heart knows that that's not enough. -[3229.30 --> 3239.30] And yet, even as I feel the haunting, right? This haunting for more, like a spectral affection just -[3239.30 --> 3245.38] beyond my reach, slipping palpably through my fingers. Even as I feel that, my skepticism -[3245.38 --> 3253.96] wells up and it pulls me firmly back to the ground. In my head, I want what philosophers used to call -[3253.96 --> 3264.00] foundational certitude, but my heart refuses to land. And it's into this sort of ephemeral -[3264.00 --> 3271.96] unknowing, but wanting to be known, that I love the way the Gospel of Mark ends. -[3271.96 --> 3278.88] The resurrection story speaks into this precise cultural moment. -[3278.88 --> 3287.26] So the women head to the tomb, and they do so in order to anoint Jesus' body, because he died just -[3287.26 --> 3293.72] before the Sabbath was to start. The Sabbath, in Jewish culture, remember that the day begins on -[3293.72 --> 3301.30] the evening before. And so they couldn't do ordinary labors on the Sabbath, and so his body was placed in -[3301.30 --> 3308.14] the tomb without ceremony or without funeral preparations. And so the women head to the tomb, -[3308.54 --> 3318.62] and they wonder, who will move this stone? Now, it was common for tombs to be cut into hillsides, -[3318.98 --> 3325.84] and to have a round stone, to have stonework on the face, and to have an entrance cut, and then a round -[3325.84 --> 3330.38] stone that would roll in front of it. I have a picture, actually, that we can put up on the screen. -[3332.04 --> 3339.48] This is a picture that I took. Do we have the picture? There it is. This is a picture that is -[3339.48 --> 3345.96] from a trip that I took to Israel, and this is a hill country just outside of Jerusalem. This is -[3345.96 --> 3353.80] probably very similar to what these women would have gone to find. And because the tombs were usually -[3353.80 --> 3360.48] for families, they could be opened and then sealed after each burial need. And if you look at the -[3360.48 --> 3366.10] picture there, you can see that there's a bit of an outer room to it, where they would prepare the body -[3366.10 --> 3372.78] and where it lays for the first few days after death. And eventually, the body gets moved into, deeper -[3372.78 --> 3381.18] into the tomb, into the place there, and there would be other sort of rooms off to the side, or chambers, -[3381.18 --> 3386.08] or boxes where bodies would move, so that when the next person from the family died, they would be -[3386.08 --> 3390.24] able to come and use that front room, and then move to the back, and the like. And so when we read, -[3390.56 --> 3394.76] they went into the room, and they looked to the right, even this picture here, exactly, there's a -[3394.76 --> 3400.60] funeral bench to the right, as you walk in the first door, where the body would have laid. And then -[3400.60 --> 3406.80] there's a second door beyond, where eventually it would have been moved. So it's into this first chamber -[3406.80 --> 3412.98] that they go, and they see a young man or an angel dressed in white. And he says to them, -[3413.38 --> 3419.18] right, he sees their alarm, of course, they see this white person sitting there, and the stone having -[3419.18 --> 3425.64] been rolled away, and Jesus' body not there, and he says, don't be alarmed. You are looking for Jesus. -[3425.64 --> 3432.52] He is not here, he has risen. Go, tell the disciples, go to Galilee, and you will see him there. -[3432.52 --> 3440.00] And then, and this is why I love this story, and the way that Mark tells it here, for our modern -[3440.00 --> 3446.96] context, right, for the sort of spiritual frame that we find ourselves in now, what does Mark say? -[3448.88 --> 3457.56] Trembling and bewildered, the woman went out and fled from the tomb. They said nothing to anyone -[3457.56 --> 3466.40] because they were afraid. And then Mark just ends the story. Now, I know that if you're looking at it -[3466.40 --> 3471.22] in your own Bible, some of you will see more text later on, some of you will see that blocked out, -[3471.26 --> 3476.66] or with a little note there. I don't want to get into the whole weeds of textual criticism and the -[3476.66 --> 3482.04] like, but suffice it to say that that longer ending probably isn't part of Mark's original. -[3482.04 --> 3489.10] He wanted to end it abruptly. He wanted to leave us in that place of trembling and bewildered and -[3489.10 --> 3499.28] fleeing for fear. And I think that that's exactly what Easter Sunday is like for most of us today, -[3499.50 --> 3508.18] right? We want to believe, but it seems impossible, right? We want certitude, but we're bewildered. -[3508.18 --> 3517.28] We want conviction and a boldness that comes from that, but we're still afraid, right? The challenge -[3517.28 --> 3525.44] of belief in an increasingly post-Christian 21st century world is just this, the constant pulling -[3525.44 --> 3533.60] down of pressure and doubt, knowing that you should, but feeling like you can't, feeling like you do, -[3533.60 --> 3541.16] but knowing it's impossible, right? The experience of Mary and Mary and Salome define our experience of -[3541.16 --> 3549.62] faith and resurrection. This is where we live now. And here's the thing, because it's not just Christians, -[3550.62 --> 3558.14] right? It's all of us. The human condition is to love, the human nature, right? Anthropologically, -[3558.14 --> 3565.82] we are wired to love and to desire and to believe. Now, we might use different words for that, right? But there is a -[3565.82 --> 3574.14] pull of eternity on your heart that unsettles, that's a restless wandering, that's not completely satisfied -[3574.14 --> 3582.62] in a longing for an experience of beauty, and yet distinctly bound to the ground, looking to what is -[3582.62 --> 3593.70] and knowing what's not. One philosopher writes, he says, even as faith endures in our secular age, -[3593.84 --> 3600.26] believing does not come easy. Faith is fraught, confession is haunted by an inescapable sense of -[3600.26 --> 3607.12] its contestability. We don't believe instead of doubting, we believe while doubting. -[3607.12 --> 3619.62] This is the life of faith that I know, that I bet most of you are familiar with. The same philosopher -[3619.62 --> 3628.20] will go on, he says, the doubter's doubt is faith, right? His temptation is belief, and it is a temptation -[3628.20 --> 3636.54] that has not been entirely quelled, even in our secular age, right? We oscillate between faith and doubt, -[3636.54 --> 3643.16] assurance and skepticism, conviction and complacency. In fact, right, we don't even oscillate back and -[3643.16 --> 3649.82] forth. All of those feels exist at the same time in us, right? We are pulled up and pushed down at the -[3649.82 --> 3655.62] same time. Transcendence comes crashing through the neat, organized, bordered, bound picture of reality -[3655.62 --> 3664.18] only to mess up what we have so carefully crafted all again. And that's just it. -[3666.54 --> 3676.74] The mystery is messy, and faith won't be confined to our propositional boxes, just like Jesus won't be bound -[3676.74 --> 3687.34] to a grave. You see, I think, and I know that I am guilty of this, I think we make a mistake when we think of -[3687.34 --> 3697.42] Easter as being about proving that God has power over sin and death. Now, before you call the heresy police on me, -[3697.86 --> 3703.78] don't hear what I'm not saying, right? Because the empty tomb does that, right? That is God's proof of power. -[3704.08 --> 3708.72] I really like the way that Tom Wright puts it so forcefully. He says, -[3708.72 --> 3714.68] the only possible reason why early Christianity began and took the shape it did is that the tomb -[3714.68 --> 3719.54] really was empty and that people really did meet Jesus alive again. -[3722.02 --> 3730.06] There's a story told about a young Robert Louis Stevenson. You may not know who that is. He -[3730.06 --> 3734.04] was born in 1850. He lived in Scotland. He was a novelist, -[3734.04 --> 3741.18] and he became famous for his writing. But when he was a child in Scotland, now in those days, -[3741.64 --> 3748.86] street lights didn't just come on when a photo cell on the top sensed too little light from the sun, -[3749.48 --> 3755.68] right? People were hired to walk around with a candle and a jar of oil, and they would go from -[3755.68 --> 3760.88] light post to light post with a ladder slung over their shoulder, lean the ladder up against the light -[3760.88 --> 3766.72] post, climb up the ladder, open the little jar, top off the oil, light it, close the lid, climb back -[3766.72 --> 3772.16] down the ladder, and then move 20 feet to the next one and do it all over again, right? Back and forth. -[3772.28 --> 3778.66] And Robert Louis Stevenson remembers watching this happen from his window, watching the man who was -[3778.66 --> 3783.86] going from light post to light post to light post in the dark, lighting these lights. He turned to his -[3783.86 --> 3793.46] parents and he said, look, they're punching holes in the darkness. That's what Easter does, right? Jesus -[3793.46 --> 3800.30] really did live the life of perfect righteousness. He really did die on Good Friday for the sins of all, -[3800.48 --> 3807.90] and the tomb in which his body is really laid is really empty. By his resurrection, Jesus is punching -[3807.90 --> 3815.88] holes in the darkness of sin and death and Satan. And so if today you are facing sin or death or Satan, -[3816.00 --> 3821.28] if you are feeling overwhelmed and overpressed, if you are feeling brokenhearted or just broken, -[3821.58 --> 3830.68] the resurrection is Jesus coming into this world and saying, not for ever, not for always, maybe for -[3830.68 --> 3837.80] right now. But the end of the story is the empty tomb. The end of the story is our resurrection just -[3837.80 --> 3849.26] as Jesus was resurrected. So I believe all that. But this story, this true story isn't first about -[3849.26 --> 3857.48] proving, right? If this was first about proving it to be true, we would probably see Jesus in the story. -[3857.48 --> 3866.60] But we don't. Instead, I suggest to you that this story isn't about proving, it's about stirring, -[3867.22 --> 3874.02] right? It isn't about the effect, though that is huge and world-changing. This is about the affect, -[3874.38 --> 3880.32] right? And the affect is effective to punch holes in the darkness, not just 2,000 years ago, but today, -[3880.32 --> 3889.50] now, in your life. Hearts of stone become hearts of flesh, dead come alive, light shines in the -[3889.50 --> 3894.88] darkness, imaginations becoming alive for the impossible and the impossible becoming possible. -[3895.62 --> 3903.68] This is about being bewildered and yet still believing. This is about trembling and being transformed. -[3903.68 --> 3919.76] Amid your doubts, Jesus says, come, come to me. In your assurances, Jesus says, go, go to all the world. -[3920.90 --> 3930.16] And to your questions, he says, yes. In your wandering, he calls forth wonder. -[3930.16 --> 3938.26] Jesus said to Thomas and the other disciples at the end of the Gospel of John, a different account of this, -[3938.34 --> 3948.72] he said, blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed. In those words, Jesus is talking to us. -[3949.64 --> 3959.42] He's talking to you. Believe and you are blessed. Believe even with doubt and he is with you. -[3959.42 --> 3965.54] Believe even as you doubt and you are given something more than your heart can imagine, -[3965.92 --> 3969.12] but exactly what you were created for. -[3970.52 --> 3972.68] Even as we feel -[3972.68 --> 3975.36] rootless and unsure, -[3975.98 --> 3979.42] his resurrection brings to us a rootedness. -[3979.42 --> 3993.42] Even as we experience the chaos of culture, his resurrection brings a firm truth and foundation. -[3994.52 --> 4002.68] And the rootedness that he brings is a rootedness of liturgy and word and in just a moment, here, sacrament. -[4002.68 --> 4010.22] In a moment, we will come to this table and we will take in Jesus through the bread and through the wine. -[4010.84 --> 4013.50] In a moment, we will touch, taste and see. -[4013.90 --> 4021.88] In a moment, transcendence will once again come crashing down through to you and to me as we come to the table. -[4021.88 --> 4028.58] The table is set because the tomb is empty. -[4029.80 --> 4033.54] The tomb is empty and so our hearts are full. -[4034.28 --> 4038.50] The tomb is empty and so come to the table. -[4039.88 --> 4042.68] This table is for those who are trembling. -[4042.68 --> 4046.50] The bread is for those who are bewildered. -[4047.14 --> 4050.32] The juice is for those who come in joy. -[4051.40 --> 4057.68] He is risen and he is here. -[4059.12 --> 4064.28] Come and see your king at the table. -[4066.44 --> 4069.50] Lift up your hearts to the Lord. -[4069.50 --> 4079.46] We lift them up to the Lord. -[4082.14 --> 4084.54] Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. -[4085.38 --> 4088.14] For it is right for us to give thanks. -[4088.82 --> 4089.30] Let's pray. -[4092.88 --> 4096.10] With joy, we praise you, gracious God. -[4096.82 --> 4098.86] For you have created heaven and earth. -[4098.86 --> 4104.96] You have made us in your image and kept covenant with us even when we fell into sin. -[4106.14 --> 4115.60] We give you thanks for Jesus Christ who by his life, death and resurrection opened to us the way of everlasting life. -[4115.60 --> 4118.68] And so we come to the table. -[4119.56 --> 4120.16] Amen. -[4120.16 --> 4131.32] Before he suffered, Jesus gave us this memorial of his sacrifice until he comes again. -[4132.50 --> 4135.98] The Lord Jesus, on the night that he was betrayed, he took bread. -[4136.98 --> 4140.00] And when he had given thanks, he broke it and he said, -[4140.00 --> 4143.30] This is my body, which is for you. -[4144.20 --> 4146.60] Do this in remembrance of me. -[4148.28 --> 4152.76] And in the same way, he took the cup after supper and said, -[4153.14 --> 4156.34] This cup is the new covenant in my blood. -[4157.16 --> 4160.00] Do this in remembrance of me. -[4160.00 --> 4169.36] For whenever we eat this bread and drink this cup, we proclaim the Lord's death and his resurrection until he comes again. -[4170.10 --> 4175.00] This is the mystery of our faith. -[4175.00 --> 4183.78] Your death, O Christ, we proclaim. -[4184.56 --> 4186.98] Your resurrection, we affirm with joy. -[4187.12 --> 4189.84] Your coming, we wait with hope. -[4190.46 --> 4193.46] Glory be to you, Lord Jesus. -[4193.46 --> 4199.46] Church family, the Lord has prepared his table for all who love him. -[4199.86 --> 4202.46] For all who trust in him alone for their salvation. -[4203.02 --> 4209.18] And so come to this table now, you who have much faith and you who would like to have more. -[4210.06 --> 4216.16] Come to this table, you who have been here often and you who have not been for a long time. -[4216.16 --> 4219.40] You who have tried to follow Jesus and you who have failed. -[4219.40 --> 4224.70] Come to this table because Jesus Christ is raised. -[4225.38 --> 4229.60] Come if you are here or if you are at home and online. -[4229.82 --> 4233.78] It is Christ who invites us to meet him here. -[4234.74 --> 4239.16] These are the gifts of God for the people of God. -[4241.00 --> 4248.20] Just a moment, we are going to have elders invite you to come in groups to the front to participate -[4248.20 --> 4250.70] in the table together. -[4251.50 --> 4252.84] It's a tight fit up here. -[4253.66 --> 4256.96] So take the space that you need, spread out. -[4257.04 --> 4260.42] It won't be a perfect circle or an oval, but we'll make it work. -[4261.08 --> 4265.20] If you are unable to come to the front as an elder comes to your row, -[4265.32 --> 4269.26] please just indicate to them and they will serve you in your seats. -[4270.70 --> 4275.38] Additionally, when you come up to the front on the trays of bread, -[4275.50 --> 4277.98] there's a little bowl in the center that has gluten-free. -[4278.20 --> 4280.50] Bread for those of you who need it. -[4282.84 --> 4287.68] Finally, if you are coming up, we invite you to come up with your entire family. -[4288.10 --> 4292.42] And so even if your whole family is not going to participate in the supper together, -[4293.12 --> 4299.30] come on up with them that they might stand with you to participate in the table in that way. -[4299.98 --> 4304.10] I'd like to invite the serving elders and the worship team up here first -[4304.10 --> 4308.10] so that we can serve them and then they will lead us through. -[4308.10 --> 4323.04] Body of Christ. -[4327.56 --> 4328.46] Body of Christ. -[4328.46 --> 4329.78] Body of Christ. -[4329.92 --> 4330.36] Body of Christ. -[4342.50 --> 4344.60] Body of Christ. -[4344.98 --> 4347.18] eins in the air. -[4347.74 --> 4353.02] volt sun. -[4353.02 --> 4378.36] Eat and remember. -[4383.02 --> 4394.64] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[4398.48 --> 4399.88] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[4413.02 --> 4443.00] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[4443.02 --> 4473.00] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[4473.00 --> 4486.00] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[4486.00 --> 4499.00] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[4499.00 --> 4512.00] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[4512.00 --> 4525.00] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[4525.00 --> 4533.00] How deep the Father's love for us. -[4534.00 --> 4539.00] How vast beyond all measure. -[4539.00 --> 4546.00] That he should give his only Son. -[4546.00 --> 4553.00] To make a wretch his treasure. -[4553.00 --> 4560.00] How great the pain of searing loss. -[4560.00 --> 4561.00] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[4561.00 --> 4562.00] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[4562.00 --> 4563.00] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[4563.00 --> 4565.00] That turns his face away. -[4565.00 --> 4568.00] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[4568.00 --> 4570.00] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[4570.00 --> 4572.00] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[4572.00 --> 4579.52] I bring many signs to glory. -[4583.54 --> 4595.82] Behold the man upon a cross, my sin upon his shoulders. -[4595.82 --> 4609.60] Ashamed I hear my mocking voice call out along the scum of earth. -[4610.54 --> 4622.90] It was my sin that dealt in there, until it was a calm there. -[4622.90 --> 4629.58] His dying breath has brought me life. -[4630.58 --> 4634.90] I know that it is me. -[4638.90 --> 4644.90] I will not boast in anything. -[4644.90 --> 4651.40] No gifts, no power, no wisdom. -[4653.18 --> 4659.24] But I will boast in Jesus Christ. -[4659.92 --> 4664.58] His death and resurrection. -[4664.58 --> 4694.58] -[4694.58 --> 4698.58] What I gained from his reward. -[4699.72 --> 4705.16] I cannot give an answer. -[4706.90 --> 4713.34] But this I know with all my heart. -[4713.34 --> 4719.62] His wounds have paid my ransom. -[4719.62 --> 4722.62] I cannot give an answer. -[4722.62 --> 4726.62] I cannot give an answer. -[4726.62 --> 4729.04] I cannot give an answer. -[4729.04 --> 4757.28] My Lord, My love is and your, -[4757.28 --> 4769.84] That is so dearly that I, the guilty one, -[4769.84 --> 4775.94] ready for me. -[4776.00 --> 4783.12] Oh, raising love for what sacrifice was, -[4783.12 --> 4788.96] the son of God given for me. -[4788.96 --> 4795.36] My debt he pays and my debt he dies, -[4795.36 --> 4807.36] that I, I did, that I, I did. -[4807.36 --> 4817.18] And so he watched and died, -[4817.18 --> 4822.10] and his son rejected, -[4824.02 --> 4829.98] but all the money shed, -[4829.98 --> 4835.80] and all the money shed. -[4835.80 --> 4842.80] Oh, raising love for what sacrifice was, -[4842.80 --> 4847.74] the son of God given for me. -[4847.74 --> 4854.74] My debt he pays and my debt he dies, -[4854.74 --> 4866.74] that I, I did, that I, I did. -[4866.74 --> 4883.56] And now this love of Christ shall flow like rivers. -[4883.56 --> 4890.56] Come wash your guilt away, -[4890.56 --> 4896.56] live again. -[4896.56 --> 4902.56] Amazing love for what sacrifice, -[4902.56 --> 4908.56] the son of God given for me. -[4908.56 --> 4915.56] My debt he pays and my debt he dies, -[4915.56 --> 4929.56] that I, I did, that I, I did. -[4929.56 --> 4930.56] Amen. -[4930.56 --> 4931.56] Amen. -[4934.50 --> 4940.16] Amen. -[4940.16 --> 4940.60] Amen. -[4940.60 --> 4941.02] Amen. -[4941.02 --> 4941.64] Amen. -[4941.64 --> 4942.08] Amen. -[4942.08 --> 4942.22] Amen. -[4946.30 --> 4946.70] Amen. -[4946.70 --> 4947.20] Amen. -[4947.20 --> 4947.62] Amen. -[4947.70 --> 4947.78] Amen. -[4947.88 --> 4948.28] Amen. -[4949.62 --> 4950.04] Amen. -[4950.04 --> 4952.20] Amen. -[4952.60 --> 4953.80] Amen. -[4953.80 --> 4954.32] Amen. -[4954.56 --> 4956.36] Amen. -[4956.36 --> 4956.60] Amen. -[4956.60 --> 4956.74] Amen. -[4956.74 --> 4957.18] Amen. -[4957.84 --> 4958.02] Amen. -[4958.02 --> 4958.42] Amen. -[4958.42 --> 4959.52] Amen. -[4959.52 --> 4989.50] Thank you. -[4989.52 --> 5019.50] I love you, Lord, and I lift my bones to worship you, O my soul. -[5019.52 --> 5034.80] Rejoice, take joy, my King, in what you hear. -[5034.80 --> 5046.80] May it be a sweet, sweet sound in your ear. -[5046.80 --> 5072.80] I love you, Lord, and I lift my bones to worship you, O my soul. -[5072.80 --> 5088.80] Rejoice, take joy, my King, in what you hear. -[5088.80 --> 5101.94] May it be a sweet, sweet sound in your ear. -[5101.94 --> 5115.94] May it be a sweet, sweet sound in your ear. -[5115.94 --> 5130.94] May it be a sweet, sweet sound in your ear. -[5130.94 --> 5139.94] I exalt Thee. -[5139.94 --> 5146.94] I exalt Thee. -[5146.94 --> 5152.94] I exalt Thee. -[5152.94 --> 5165.94] I exalt Thee. -[5165.94 --> 5172.94] I exalt Thee. -[5172.94 --> 5179.94] I exalt Thee. -[5179.94 --> 5181.94] I exalt Thee. -[5181.94 --> 5186.94] I exalt Thee. -[5186.94 --> 5193.94] I exalt Thee. -[5193.94 --> 5199.94] I exalt Thee. -[5199.94 --> 5206.94] I exalt Thee. -[5206.94 --> 5207.94] I exalt Thee. -[5207.94 --> 5208.94] I exalt Thee. -[5208.94 --> 5213.94] I exalt Thee. -[5213.94 --> 5220.94] I exalt Thee. -[5220.94 --> 5226.94] I exalt Thee. -[5226.94 --> 5233.94] I exalt Thee. -[5233.94 --> 5255.94] I exalt Thee. -[5255.94 --> 5285.92] guitar solo -[5285.94 --> 5315.92] guitar solo -[5315.94 --> 5334.68] I call out to you -[5334.68 --> 5339.68] Again and again -[5339.68 --> 5344.56] I call out to you -[5344.56 --> 5349.68] Again and again -[5349.68 --> 5354.68] You are my love -[5355.32 --> 5359.68] In times of struggle -[5359.68 --> 5365.68] You lift me up -[5365.68 --> 5369.68] When I fall down -[5369.68 --> 5373.68] All through the storm -[5374.48 --> 5378.68] Your love is -[5378.68 --> 5382.68] The anchor -[5382.68 --> 5389.68] My hope is in you -[5389.68 --> 5398.68] Faithful one -[5398.68 --> 5401.68] So unchanging -[5401.68 --> 5407.68] Ageless one -[5407.68 --> 5411.68] You're my love -[5411.68 --> 5413.68] Come please -[5413.68 --> 5417.68] Lord of all -[5417.68 --> 5422.68] I depend on you -[5422.68 --> 5427.68] I call out to you -[5427.68 --> 5429.68] I call out to you -[5429.68 --> 5432.68] Again and again -[5432.68 --> 5434.68] Again and again -[5434.68 --> 5437.68] I call out to you -[5437.68 --> 5439.68] I call out to you -[5439.68 --> 5442.68] Again and again -[5442.68 --> 5447.68] You are my love -[5447.68 --> 5452.68] In times of trouble -[5452.68 --> 5458.68] You lift me up -[5458.68 --> 5462.68] When I fall down -[5462.68 --> 5466.68] All through the storm -[5466.68 --> 5467.68] Your love is -[5467.68 --> 5471.68] The anchor -[5471.68 --> 5472.68] My hope is in you alone -[5472.68 --> 5475.68] The anchor -[5475.68 --> 5484.68] My hope is in you alone -[5484.68 --> 5485.68] All through the storm -[5485.68 --> 5489.68] All through the storm -[5489.68 --> 5495.68] Your love is the anchor -[5495.68 --> 5500.68] The anchor -[5500.68 --> 5510.68] My hope is in you alone -[5525.68 --> 5553.68] Amazing grace -[5553.68 --> 5558.40] Praise how sweet the sound -[5558.40 --> 5565.84] That saved a wretch like me -[5565.84 --> 5569.92] I once was lost -[5569.92 --> 5573.64] But now am found -[5573.64 --> 5579.36] Was blind but now I see -[5579.36 --> 5588.48] T'was grace that longed my heart to fear -[5588.48 --> 5594.70] And grace my fears relieved -[5594.70 --> 5603.40] How precious did that grace appear -[5603.40 --> 5608.86] The hour I first believed -[5608.86 --> 5617.98] The Lord has promised good to me -[5617.98 --> 5623.98] His word my hope secures -[5623.98 --> 5631.98] He will my shield and portion be -[5631.98 --> 5641.10] As long as life can go -[5641.10 --> 5648.14] Through many dangers, toils and snares -[5648.14 --> 5657.26] I have already come -[5657.26 --> 5664.38] And grace hath brought me safe thus far -[5664.38 --> 5671.50] And grace will lead me home -[5671.50 --> 5679.66] When we've been there ten thousand years -[5679.66 --> 5686.78] Like shining as the sun -[5686.78 --> 5690.62] We've known as days -[5690.62 --> 5694.18] To sing God's grace -[5694.18 --> 5699.66] Than when we first begun -[5699.66 --> 5704.78] I have already come -[5704.78 --> 5708.78] And grace will lead me home -[5708.78 --> 5711.90] God sent his Son -[5711.90 --> 5721.02] God sent his Son -[5721.02 --> 5730.14] They called him Jesus -[5730.14 --> 5740.14] He came to love -[5740.14 --> 5749.26] Heal and forbid -[5749.26 --> 5751.26] Heal and forbid -[5751.26 --> 5753.26] He fled and died -[5753.26 --> 5754.26] Heal and forbid -[5754.26 --> 5754.50] Heal and forbid -[5754.50 --> 5756.38] But empty grave is there -[5756.38 --> 5760.38] To prove my Savior lives -[5760.38 --> 5761.50] Because he lives -[5761.50 --> 5763.50] Because he lives -[5763.50 --> 5766.50] I can face tomorrow -[5766.50 --> 5769.50] Because he lives -[5769.50 --> 5771.62] All fear is gone -[5771.62 --> 5773.62] All fear is gone -[5773.62 --> 5776.62] Because I know -[5776.62 --> 5779.62] He holds a future -[5779.62 --> 5780.74] And life is gone -[5780.74 --> 5783.74] And life is worth the living -[5783.74 --> 5786.74] Just because he lives -[5786.74 --> 5790.74] How sweet to hold -[5790.74 --> 5793.74] A newborn baby -[5793.74 --> 5796.74] And feel the pride -[5796.74 --> 5799.74] And joy he gives -[5799.74 --> 5803.74] But greater still -[5803.74 --> 5806.74] The calm assurance -[5806.74 --> 5808.94] His love can face -[5808.94 --> 5809.86] In certain days -[5809.86 --> 5810.86] Because he lives -[5810.86 --> 5812.86] Because he lives -[5812.86 --> 5815.86] Because he lives -[5815.86 --> 5818.98] I can face tomorrow -[5818.98 --> 5823.02] Because he lives -[5823.02 --> 5826.22] All fear is gone -[5826.22 --> 5828.66] Because I know -[5828.66 --> 5832.16] He holds a future -[5832.16 --> 5835.80] And life is worth the living -[5835.80 --> 5837.80] Just because he lives -[5837.80 --> 5838.96] Just because he lives -[5838.96 --> 5841.80] And then one day -[5841.80 --> 5844.80] I'll cross that river -[5844.80 --> 5847.80] I'll fight my smile -[5847.80 --> 5851.80] No more with me -[5851.80 --> 5854.80] And then as death -[5854.80 --> 5857.80] Gives way to victory -[5857.80 --> 5861.96] I'll see the lights of glory -[5861.96 --> 5862.96] And I'll know -[5862.96 --> 5863.96] I'll know -[5863.96 --> 5865.24] He lives -[5865.24 --> 5867.96] Because he lives -[5867.96 --> 5871.20] I can face tomorrow -[5871.20 --> 5873.96] Because he lives -[5873.96 --> 5878.30] All fear is gone -[5878.30 --> 5879.96] Because I know -[5879.96 --> 5883.96] He holds a future -[5883.96 --> 5886.96] And life is worth the living -[5886.96 --> 5887.12] And life is worth the living -[5887.12 --> 5888.96] Just because he lives -[5888.96 --> 5889.96] Just because he lives -[5889.96 --> 5891.96] Because he lives -[5891.96 --> 5892.96] Because he lives -[5892.96 --> 5896.96] I can face tomorrow -[5896.96 --> 5898.96] Because he lives -[5898.96 --> 5901.96] All fear is gone -[5901.96 --> 5903.96] All fear is gone -[5903.96 --> 5906.96] Because I know -[5906.96 --> 5907.96] He holds a future -[5907.96 --> 5913.96] And life is worth the living -[5913.96 --> 5916.96] Just because he lives -[5916.96 --> 5917.96] Because he lives -[5917.96 --> 5918.96] Because he lives -[5918.96 --> 5919.96] Because he lives -[5919.96 --> 5935.96] Because he lives -[5935.96 --> 5937.96] Drink and believe -[5937.96 --> 5939.96] He lives -[5939.96 --> 5944.96] About two -[5944.96 --> 5947.96] Quantum -[5947.96 --> 5948.96] Levine -[5948.96 --> 5950.76] Latter -[5951.96 --> 5953.96] exit -[5953.96 --> 5956.96] island -[5956.96 --> 5957.96] All fear -[5957.96 --> 5958.82] Hold -[5960.96 --> 5962.96] 住 -[5962.96 --> 5963.96] 20 -[5963.96 --> 5964.96] forget -[5964.96 --> 5966.56] Doug -[5966.56 --> 5981.20] I should have said this before that last table, -[5981.44 --> 5982.30] but I didn't know. -[5982.54 --> 5983.48] That was the last table. -[5984.24 --> 5985.52] So if you haven't been served yet, -[5985.58 --> 5986.42] but would like to be, -[5986.90 --> 5988.16] you can come to the front now. -[5994.86 --> 5995.30] Amen. -[5996.56 --> 5997.50] What a feast. -[5997.50 --> 6000.40] Thank you for joining us in that. -[6001.98 --> 6003.68] Let's pray, shall we? -[6010.80 --> 6011.96] Amazing God, -[6012.30 --> 6015.64] you come into our ordinary lives -[6015.64 --> 6019.08] and set a holy table among us, -[6020.24 --> 6022.20] filling our plates with the bread of life -[6022.20 --> 6024.60] and our cups with salvation. -[6024.60 --> 6027.58] Send us out now -[6027.58 --> 6033.08] in the power and majesty of your resurrection. -[6034.28 --> 6038.60] Send us out now with tenderheartedness -[6038.60 --> 6040.96] to touch an ordinary world -[6040.96 --> 6045.38] with the promise of your extraordinary holiness. -[6045.38 --> 6050.56] send us out to all the nations. -[6051.44 --> 6054.40] In the power of Christ's resurrection, we pray. -[6055.50 --> 6055.92] Amen. -[6055.92 --> 6060.70] I'm going to invite you to stand for our closing blessing. -[6060.70 --> 6082.32] May God, in the power that raised Christ from the dead, go before you to guide you. -[6083.20 --> 6088.86] May God, in the power that raised Christ from the dead, go behind you to protect you. -[6088.86 --> 6095.06] May God, in the power that raised Christ from the dead, go beneath you to support you. -[6095.38 --> 6100.88] And may God, in the power that raised Christ from the dead, go beside you to befriend you. -[6101.18 --> 6105.48] Do not be afraid. Christ is risen. -[6106.10 --> 6110.94] Do not be afraid. Christ is risen indeed. -[6111.36 --> 6113.80] And all God's people said, Amen. -[6118.86 --> 6119.86] Amen. -[6148.86 --> 6178.84] Thank you. -[6178.86 --> 6208.84] Thank you. -[6208.86 --> 6238.84] Thank you. -[6238.86 --> 6240.86] Thank you. -[6268.86 --> 6270.86] Thank you. -[6298.86 --> 6300.86] Thank you. -[6328.86 --> 6330.86] Thank you. -[6358.86 --> 6360.86] Thank you. -[6388.86 --> 6390.86] Thank you. -[6418.86 --> 6420.86] Thank you. -[6420.86 --> 6422.86] Thank you. -[6450.86 --> 6452.86] Thank you. -[6452.86 --> 6454.86] Thank you. -[6454.86 --> 6456.86] Thank you. -[6456.86 --> 6458.86] Thank you. -[6458.86 --> 6460.86] Thank you. -[6460.86 --> 6462.86] Thank you. -[6462.86 --> 6464.86] Thank you. -[6464.86 --> 6466.86] Thank you. -[6466.86 --> 6468.86] Thank you. -[6468.86 --> 6470.86] Thank you. -[6470.86 --> 6472.86] Thank you. -[6472.86 --> 6474.86] Thank you. -[6474.86 --> 6476.86] Thank you. -[6476.86 --> 6478.86] Thank you. -[6478.86 --> 6480.86] Thank you. -[6480.86 --> 6482.86] Thank you. -[6482.86 --> 6484.86] Thank you. -[6484.86 --> 6486.86] Thank you. -[6486.86 --> 6488.86] Thank you. -[6488.86 --> 6490.86] Thank you. -[6490.86 --> 6492.86] Thank you. -[6492.86 --> 6494.86] Thank you. -[6494.86 --> 6496.86] Thank you. -[6496.86 --> 6498.86] Thank you. -[6498.86 --> 6502.12] To you, God will be given. -[6505.12 --> 6506.36] Alleluia. -[6506.84 --> 6510.76] Risen Christ, triumphant now. -[6513.76 --> 6515.04] Alleluia. -[6515.52 --> 6519.58] Every knee to you shall bow. -[6523.58 --> 6525.02] Alleluia. -[6528.86 --> 6530.86] Alleluia. -[6530.86 --> 6537.94] Send us, Lord, with great jubilation, -[6538.44 --> 6543.96] joyful in the faith we claim. -[6543.96 --> 6549.68] Going forth with glad adoration, -[6550.14 --> 6555.96] changing lives in Jesus' name. -[6555.96 --> 6561.72] Till the day you come in glory, -[6562.44 --> 6567.38] we will heed your parting call. -[6567.84 --> 6573.16] We will share this wondrous story. -[6573.16 --> 6576.12] Christ is Lord. -[6576.12 --> 6579.04] Christ is Lord. -[6579.04 --> 6584.88] Christ is Lord. -[6584.88 --> 6589.88] Alleluia. -[6589.88 --> 6591.88] Alleluia. -[6591.88 --> 6593.88] Alleluia. -[6593.88 --> 6597.88] Alleluia. -[6597.88 --> 6604.88] Alleluia. -[6604.88 --> 6609.88] Alleluia. -[6609.88 --> 6610.88] Alleluia. -[6610.88 --> 6611.88] Alleluia. -[6611.88 --> 6613.88] Alleluia. -[6613.88 --> 6625.34] Alleluia. -[6625.42 --> 6625.64] Alleluia. -[6627.78 --> 6627.88] Alleluia. -[6627.88 --> 6628.46] Alleluia. -[6628.46 --> 6629.10] Just a bit tomorrow. -[6629.10 --> 6629.60] Alleluia. -[6629.60 --> 6637.80] I was buried beneath my shame -[6637.80 --> 6646.68] Who could carry that kind of weight? -[6648.68 --> 6651.02] It was my tool -[6651.02 --> 6654.82] Till I made -[6654.82 --> 6664.14] I was breathing but not alive -[6664.14 --> 6673.02] All my failures I tried to hide -[6673.02 --> 6677.26] It was my tool -[6677.26 --> 6681.36] Till I made -[6681.36 --> 6686.68] You called my name -[6686.68 --> 6690.18] And I ran out of that grave -[6690.18 --> 6695.18] Out of the darkness -[6695.18 --> 6698.96] To your glorious day -[6698.96 --> 6703.68] You called my name -[6703.68 --> 6708.00] And I ran out of that grave -[6708.00 --> 6712.50] Out of the darkness -[6712.50 --> 6715.82] To your glorious day -[6715.82 --> 6728.82] Now your mercy I saved my soul -[6728.82 --> 6737.82] Now your freedom is all that I know -[6737.82 --> 6739.36] Listen -[6739.36 --> 6742.76] The old made you -[6742.76 --> 6747.14] Jesus when I made you -[6747.14 --> 6751.14] When you called my name -[6751.14 --> 6755.14] And I ran out of that grave -[6755.14 --> 6760.52] Out of the darkness -[6760.52 --> 6763.84] To your glorious day -[6763.84 --> 6765.84] To your glorious day -[6765.84 --> 6768.84] You called my name -[6768.84 --> 6772.84] And I ran out of that grave -[6772.84 --> 6777.84] Out of the darkness -[6777.84 --> 6781.34] To your glorious day -[6781.34 --> 6794.20] This is my story -[6794.20 --> 6796.40] This is your story -[6796.40 --> 6797.88] Come on, listen -[6797.88 --> 6800.20] I needed rescue -[6800.20 --> 6800.94] I needed rescue -[6800.94 --> 6803.18] My sin was heavy -[6803.18 --> 6804.94] The chains break -[6804.94 --> 6807.48] At the weighty old glory -[6807.48 --> 6809.54] I needed shelter -[6809.54 --> 6811.80] I was an orphan -[6811.80 --> 6813.94] Now you call me -[6813.94 --> 6816.20] A citizen of heaven -[6816.20 --> 6818.40] When I was broken -[6818.40 --> 6820.58] You were my healing -[6820.58 --> 6823.28] Now your love is the end -[6823.28 --> 6824.88] I'm breathing -[6824.88 --> 6829.38] I have a future, my eyes are open -[6829.38 --> 6836.54] Cause when you call my name, I ran out of that grave -[6836.54 --> 6845.10] Out of the darkness, into your glorious day -[6845.10 --> 6853.88] You called my name, and I ran out of that grave -[6854.88 --> 6862.70] Out of the darkness, into your glorious day -[6862.70 --> 6865.46] Oh, come on! -[6865.46 --> 6866.38] Hey! -[6879.38 --> 6881.62] Oh, what a day! -[6882.48 --> 6883.90] Oh, what a day! -[6884.88 --> 6886.10] Oh, what a day! -[6887.04 --> 6888.38] Oh, what a day! -[6890.38 --> 6894.70] You called my name, and I ran out of that grave -[6894.70 --> 6898.70] Out of the darkness, into your glorious day -[6898.70 --> 6902.70] Out of the darkness, into your glorious day -[6902.70 --> 6904.36] 2017, let's hear it! -[6904.52 --> 6906.12] The loudest shout you've got in here! -[6906.38 --> 6907.06] Give it to us! -[6907.06 --> 6907.48] Come on! -[6907.48 --> 6920.32] Assass out of the mountain and with the RFR! -[6920.32 --> 6920.92] In this first episode, we made the intended direct And the laborcoop -[6920.92 --> 6921.42] Out of the two of the 그래도 and вашish Y tank -[6921.70 --> 6934.28] of the greatest -[6934.28 --> 6953.68] The head that once was crowned with thorns -[6953.68 --> 6958.48] Is crowned with glory now -[6958.48 --> 6964.52] The Savior knelt to wash our feet -[6964.52 --> 6970.24] Now at His feet we bow -[6970.24 --> 6981.14] The one who wore our sin and shame -[6981.14 --> 6985.34] Now robed in majesty -[6985.34 --> 6992.50] The radiance of perfect love -[6992.50 --> 6997.34] Now shines for all to see -[6997.34 --> 7007.60] Your name, Your name is victory -[7007.60 --> 7012.90] Of course -[7012.90 --> 7014.76] God bless you -[7014.76 --> 7017.00] The one who wore your feet -[7017.00 --> 7018.90] Known you -[7018.90 --> 7021.70] The one who wore your feet -[7021.70 --> 7024.76] The one who wore my feet -[7024.76 --> 7025.38] But that didn'tה -[7025.38 --> 7026.58] Seen Lan ragged -[7026.58 --> 7027.18] When can Ashley -[7027.18 --> 7029.32] And when we wandered in médi probably -[7029.32 --> 7031.16] The one who wore my feet diff --git a/Easter Sunday Worship Service - April 4 2021_summary.txt b/Easter Sunday Worship Service - April 4 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2863613e9f23ffa1861fb8d8b7a9e263b5135b22..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Easter Sunday Worship Service - April 4 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,137 +0,0 @@ -• Salvation through Christ's love and sacrifice -• Overcoming shame and sin with God's forgiveness -• Resurrection from spiritual death to new life in Christ -• Freedom from past mistakes and failures -• Becoming a citizen of heaven with purpose and future -• The power of Jesus' name to overcome darkness and bring glory -• Declaration of power and breaking chains through Jesus -• Call to worship and singling out Easter Sunday -• Reflection on celebrating Easter despite difficult circumstances -• Encouragement to sing and praise the risen Savior together as a community -• Song of worship and praise to God, referencing His mercy and love -• Worship service on Easter Sunday -• Welcome and invitation to participate in worship -• Call to worship based on Psalm 118 -• Celebration of Jesus' resurrection and eternal life -• Music and hymns celebrating the risen Christ -• Invitation for prayer and connection with church staff -• Final hymn and closing prayer -• The power of Jesus' resurrection -• Hope in Jesus Christ -• Celebrating Easter morning -• Praying for forgiveness and new hope -• The significance of the empty tomb -• The sacrifice of Jesus on the cross -• Redemption and reconciliation through Jesus' love -• The curse of sin being broken -• Praising God's glory and honor -• The speaker introduces the topic of Easter Sunday and discusses its significance -• A memory verse from John 3:16 is read and discussed with accompanying actions to help memorize it -• The speaker compares Easter to a roller coaster, explaining how it evokes both sadness and joy -• A story will be told in two parts, with a break after the sermon -• Jesus is arrested by the authorities and handed over to Pilate -• The crowd demands that Jesus be crucified, but Pilate is unsure of his guilt -• Jesus is whipped and mocked by Pilate's soldiers -• A crown of thorns is placed on Jesus' head, and he is nailed to a cross -• Jesus remains on the cross for hours, despite being able to come down -• The sun disappears and darkness falls, Jesus cries out in pain and dies -• Later that afternoon, Jesus' friends take his body down from the cross and bury him in a tomb -• Pilate sends soldiers to guard the entrance of the tomb -• Jesus' death and resurrection -• Easter Sunday worship service at a church -• Offerings and tithes for Langley Emanuel, CRC Ministries, and Missions -• Resonate Global Mission and its vision to spread the gospel -• Upcoming special offering for World Renew Refugee Sponsorship and Resettlement -• Church nominations process for council office bearers -• Electronic nomination form available through email or website -• Paper copies of the nomination form available at the church office -• Vacancies on council, including admin elder, pastoral elder, and deacon positions -• Prayer for the Wind family after Sam's brother passed away -• Prayers for Pastor George Kulin, his wife Kim who recently passed away from cancer, and their families -• Celebration of a new baby girl born to Daniel and Ismay Howling -• Request for guidance in nomination process for leadership positions -• Prayers for congregation members with chronic health issues -• Prayers for those struggling with hurting relationships and seeking reconciliation -• Support for COVID long haulers and young/old individuals still experiencing lasting symptoms -• Prayers for leadership and volunteers navigating health authority orders during the pandemic -• Praying for strength and hope in Jesus -• Introducing a message on Luke 24 and the importance of understanding who Jesus is -• The question "Who do you say that I am?" being asked to Peter and everyone -• How answering this question affects life and actions -• Jesus changing everything through his resurrection -• Exploring three aspects of the resurrection: truth, witness, and mission -• The difficulty of believing in extraordinary events and concepts -• The story of Jesus' resurrection and its seeming absurdity to some -• The importance of the Bible as a guide for understanding -• Examples from the New Testament (Luke) illustrating the struggle to believe, including: - + The women who first saw the empty tomb not being believed by others - + The disciples on the road to Emmaus struggling to understand Jesus' identity - + Jesus' later appearance to his disciples and their initial fear and confusion -• The idea that Jesus' teachings can be hard to grasp due to their unconventional nature -• Jesus teaches radical obedience to God as life -• The story of the resurrection and its significance -• The resurrection is the foundation of Christian faith and belief -• Historical and scriptural evidence supporting the resurrection -• Importance of knowing the certainty of things taught through Luke's gospel message -• The training and skills of the gospel writer Luke in the Greek scholastic system -• Characteristics of true stories vs myths, including precise details and eyewitness accounts -• Comparison between the story of Little Red Riding Hood and the resurrection story in Luke 24 -• Significance of specific names and details provided by Luke in his account of the resurrection -• The Gospel account is compared to historical sources and myths -• C.S. Lewis quote mentioned: stories are not always easily identifiable as true or false based on their "flavor" -• The Gaelic War, a Roman expansion into Gaul, is used as an example of how historians trust primary sources from the past despite few manuscript copies existing -• Comparison made between the reliability of Caesar's account and the New Testament, with both having fewer manuscript copies than expected but differing in acceptance as true history -• The Gospels should be widely accepted as accurate and true -• The resurrection of Jesus has hallmarks of being a true story -• Intellectual opposition is not the main reason people struggle to believe in Jesus' resurrection -• The real problem is existential and spiritual, often rooted in disappointment or fear of change -• Belief in Jesus' resurrection requires surrendering to grace and faith, which can be scary for some -• Complacency in modern society -• The fear of true life and knowing God -• De-churched individuals, such as Mike, who have left the church due to negative experiences with Christians -• The impact of Christianity on personal lives, including spiritual rebirth and renewal -• The resurrection of Jesus Christ and its transformative power over sin and death -• Jesus' resurrection is a new identity for believers as lavishly loved children of God -• The Bible has been pointing to the resurrection from the beginning, including in Genesis and Psalm 16 -• The disciples struggled to understand the resurrection, but Jesus had been explaining it all along -• The resurrection is a fulfillment of what was written about Jesus in the law, prophets, and Psalms -• The disciples' inability to believe and recognize Jesus at first -• Jesus is recognized by the disciples through a meal, specifically when he breaks bread -• The significance of recognizing Jesus in communion (bread and wine) -• The resurrection of Jesus and its connection to salvation -• Jesus' presence in the church through the Holy Spirit -• Being a witness to the resurrection -• Living a transformed life as a result of Jesus' teachings -• The importance of forgiveness, care for others, and seeking out those in need -• Being a new creation with a mission to spread God's message -• Resurrection life as a living reality, fueled by faith and worship -• Jesus says to stay in the city and be clothed with power -• The Holy Spirit empowers us for a world mired in death and darkness -• We go not alone but with Jesus in spirit, together in community -• Resurrection life is fueled by the witness of the word and sacrament -• We run with perseverance in the journey of life and faith as a team -• Jesus is the victory of God and the resurrection -• Jesus has risen and changed everything -• Everything is transformed by Jesus' life and resurrection -• We should be sent out to see Jesus and share in his resurrection -• The Holy Spirit's power and the resurrection -• Jesus as the light and conqueror of darkness and death -• Praise for the King who is risen from the dead -• Questions to hell, death, and the world about their victories and stings -• The story of Jesus' tomb being opened by an angel on Sunday morning -• The women visited Jesus' tomb and found it open with the stone rolled away -• An angel appeared and told them Jesus was not in the tomb because he had risen from the dead -• Mary Magdalene and the other Mary saw Jesus alive and ran to him -• Jesus told them to tell his disciples that he is alive -• A hymn was sung about the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus -• Jesus Christ's redemption through death and resurrection -• The hope of eternal life and the victory over death -• Singing praise and worship in the midst of challenges and enemies -• Using music as a powerful tool for spiritual warfare -• Emphasizing faith and trust in God's presence and power -• Death is defeated -• The King is alive -• Singing in the midst of a storm -• Hope arises from darkness -• Praising the King with loud and joyful noise -• Raising a shout of "hallelujah" to express praise and celebration \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Easter Sunday Worship Service - April 4 2021_transcript.txt b/Easter Sunday Worship Service - April 4 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 014d93c3212907bbf4db02f07ef01be37a6250da..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Easter Sunday Worship Service - April 4 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2500 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 17.00] There's a place where mercy rains and never dies. -[19.50 --> 29.00] There's a place where streams of grace flow deep and wide. -[30.00 --> 46.00] For all the love I've ever found comes like a flood, comes flowing down. -[46.00 --> 56.00] At the cross, at the cross, I surrender my life. -[56.00 --> 62.00] I'm in awe of you, I'm in awe of you. -[62.00 --> 69.00] Where your love ran red and my sin washed white. -[69.00 --> 86.00] I owe all to you, I owe all to you, Jesus. -[86.00 --> 99.00] There's a place where sin and shame are powerless. -[99.00 --> 112.00] Where my heart has peace with God and forgiveness. -[112.00 --> 114.00] There's a place where sin and grace will be. -[114.00 --> 118.00] Where all the love I've ever found. -[118.00 --> 125.00] Comes like a flood, comes flowing down. -[125.00 --> 152.06] At the cross, at the cross, I surrender my life. I'm in awe of you. I'm in awe of you. Where your love ran away, in my sin washed white, I owe to you. I owe to you. -[152.06 --> 178.56] Here my hope is found, here on holy ground, here I bow down, here I bow down. Here arms open wide, here you save my life, here I bow down, here I bow. -[178.56 --> 200.56] At the cross, at the cross, I surrender my life. I'm in awe of you. I'm in awe of you. Where your love ran away, in my sin washed white, I owe to you. -[200.56 --> 210.56] I owe to you. I owe to you. I owe to you. -[210.56 --> 212.56] Jesus. -[212.56 --> 214.56] Jesus. -[214.56 --> 216.56] Jesus. -[216.56 --> 218.56] Jesus. -[218.56 --> 220.56] Savior of the world. -[220.56 --> 226.56] Your love ran away, your love ran away. -[226.56 --> 228.56] You'vast been angry with me. -[228.56 --> 230.56] His love ran away, your love ran away. -[230.56 --> 232.56] His love ran away. -[232.56 --> 237.82] He said he said he killed a baojai�� with me. -[237.82 --> 238.32] When you die who heON Sara made, they won't die. -[238.32 --> 239.56] He said he deleted him speak. -[239.56 --> 248.50] Remember your love ran away, he said he had seeks. -[248.50 --> 250.56] He said he'd also have gone. -[250.56 --> 252.14] Please follow me from breaking blocks. -[252.14 --> 254.56] If there were not JUST any problems, I might want to parody. -[254.56 --> 259.56] I was buried beneath my shame. -[263.26 --> 268.26] Who could carry that kind of weight? -[271.12 --> 277.12] It was my tool till I made you. -[277.12 --> 285.12] I was breathing but not alive. -[288.12 --> 294.12] All my failures I tried to hide. -[296.12 --> 303.12] It was my tool till I made you. -[303.12 --> 308.12] You called my name. -[309.12 --> 312.12] And I ran out of that grave. -[314.12 --> 317.12] Out of the darkness. -[318.12 --> 320.12] To your glorious day. -[323.12 --> 325.12] You called my name. -[325.12 --> 329.12] And I ran out of that grave. -[331.12 --> 334.12] Out of the darkness. -[335.12 --> 337.12] To your glorious day. -[337.12 --> 353.12] You called my name. -[354.12 --> 358.12] Now your freedom is all that I know. -[358.12 --> 360.12] That I know -[360.12 --> 361.24] Listen -[361.24 --> 364.66] The old made you -[364.66 --> 369.24] Jesus when I met you -[369.24 --> 373.92] When you called my name -[373.92 --> 377.58] And I ran out of that grave -[377.58 --> 382.46] Out of the darkness -[382.46 --> 386.30] To your glorious day -[388.12 --> 391.60] You called my name -[391.60 --> 395.18] And I ran out of that grave -[395.18 --> 400.02] Out of the darkness -[400.02 --> 403.90] To your glorious day -[403.90 --> 416.10] This is my story -[416.10 --> 418.26] This is your story -[418.26 --> 419.78] Come on, listen -[419.78 --> 422.94] I needed rescue -[422.94 --> 425.10] My sin was heavy -[425.10 --> 426.84] But chains break -[426.84 --> 429.00] At the way you're going -[429.00 --> 431.46] I needed shelter -[431.46 --> 433.68] I was an orphan -[433.68 --> 438.08] Now you call me a citizen of heaven -[438.08 --> 440.28] When I was broken -[440.28 --> 442.48] You were my healing -[442.48 --> 445.16] Now your love is healing -[445.16 --> 446.78] I'm breathing -[446.78 --> 448.94] I have a future -[448.94 --> 451.22] My eyes are open -[451.22 --> 454.04] Cause when you called my name -[454.04 --> 458.40] I ran out of that grave -[458.40 --> 463.16] Out of the darkness -[463.16 --> 466.32] To your glorious day -[466.32 --> 468.32] To your glorious day -[468.32 --> 471.32] You called my name -[471.32 --> 475.28] And I ran out of that grave -[475.28 --> 480.32] Out of the darkness -[480.32 --> 484.60] To your glorious day -[484.60 --> 487.36] Oh, come on -[487.36 --> 488.34] Hey -[488.34 --> 489.76] Oh, what a day -[489.76 --> 491.76] Oh, what a day -[491.76 --> 507.76] Oh, what a day -[507.76 --> 510.04] Oh, what a day -[510.04 --> 513.78] You called my name -[513.78 --> 516.48] I keep running out of that grave -[516.48 --> 526.24] 2017, let's hear it -[526.24 --> 527.98] The loudest shout you've got in you -[527.98 --> 528.96] Give it to us -[528.96 --> 558.94] Give it to us -[558.96 --> 560.50] Let's say it together -[560.50 --> 563.62] There is power -[563.62 --> 567.80] In the name of Jesus -[567.80 --> 572.02] There is power -[572.02 --> 576.32] In the name of Jesus -[576.32 --> 580.56] Say there is power -[580.56 --> 584.76] In the name of Jesus -[584.76 --> 586.28] Come on -[586.28 --> 588.90] To break every chain -[588.90 --> 591.02] Break every chain -[591.02 --> 594.02] Break every chain -[594.02 --> 594.72] Yeah -[594.72 --> 597.42] To break every chain -[597.42 --> 599.52] Break every chain -[599.52 --> 602.30] Break every chain -[602.30 --> 603.20] Let's say it together -[603.20 --> 603.94] There is power -[603.94 --> 606.08] There is power -[606.08 --> 610.34] In the name of Jesus -[610.34 --> 611.88] You got it -[611.88 --> 611.96] You got it -[611.96 --> 614.50] There is power -[614.50 --> 618.80] In the name of Jesus -[618.80 --> 623.04] There is power -[623.04 --> 627.30] In the name of Jesus -[627.30 --> 628.88] Yeah -[628.88 --> 631.38] To break every chain -[631.38 --> 633.50] Break every chain -[633.50 --> 636.50] Break every chain -[636.50 --> 636.52] Break every chain -[636.52 --> 637.58] Declare and say -[637.58 --> 639.84] To break every chain -[639.84 --> 642.08] Break every chain -[642.08 --> 643.24] Break every chain -[643.24 --> 646.04] Now somebody lift your hands in the air right here -[646.04 --> 650.94] Say there is power -[650.94 --> 651.74] There is power -[651.74 --> 652.02] Say there is power -[652.02 --> 652.78] Teams -[652.78 --> 653.84] We will keep silent -[653.84 --> 654.26] Say there is power -[654.26 --> 654.64] There is power -[654.64 --> 655.80] There is power -[655.80 --> 655.82] Run -[655.82 --> 656.26] Spin your hands in the air right here -[656.26 --> 656.88] Say there is power -[656.88 --> 658.02] There is power -[658.02 --> 660.02] I hear you. -[661.02 --> 663.02] There's an army. -[663.02 --> 665.02] There's an army. -[665.02 --> 668.02] Rising up. -[668.02 --> 670.02] Now shout it out. -[670.02 --> 672.02] To break every chain. -[672.02 --> 674.02] To break every chain. -[674.02 --> 676.02] Break every chain. -[676.02 --> 677.02] Yeah. -[677.02 --> 679.02] Break every chain. -[679.02 --> 682.02] To break every chain. -[682.02 --> 683.02] Yeah. -[683.02 --> 685.02] Break every chain. -[685.02 --> 687.02] Break every chain. -[687.02 --> 688.02] Somebody just move right here. -[688.02 --> 689.02] Say there is power. -[689.02 --> 694.02] There is power in the name. -[694.02 --> 697.02] Say there is power. -[697.02 --> 703.02] There is power in the name. -[703.02 --> 706.02] Say there is power. -[706.02 --> 712.02] There is power in the name. -[712.02 --> 713.02] Now somebody shout it out. -[713.02 --> 715.02] To break every chain. -[715.02 --> 716.02] Hallelujah. -[716.02 --> 718.02] Christ is risen. -[718.02 --> 719.02] Hallelujah. -[719.02 --> 720.02] Christ is risen indeed. -[720.02 --> 722.02] The tomb is empty. -[722.02 --> 723.02] Our hearts are full. -[723.02 --> 728.02] Christ the Lord is risen today. -[728.02 --> 730.02] Welcome to worship. -[730.02 --> 731.02] On Easter Sunday. -[731.02 --> 732.02] Which is one of my favorite Sundays of the year. -[732.02 --> 747.02] We light a new Christ candle to remind us that the tomb is empty. -[747.02 --> 751.02] That the light of the world has come back from death. -[751.02 --> 756.02] And now lights our life in the world. -[756.02 --> 766.02] And I want to begin this morning just by acknowledging that for many of us, maybe even most of us, this isn't the Easter Sunday we wanted. -[766.02 --> 769.02] This isn't how we wanted to experience our worship together. -[769.02 --> 775.02] This isn't how we wanted to experience our family, perhaps later in the service, or our brothers and sisters in Christ together. -[775.02 --> 781.02] This just isn't the way we had hoped to celebrate our Easter. -[781.02 --> 790.02] And yet, even in the midst of all of that, the tomb is empty and Christ is victorious. -[790.02 --> 796.02] And so today, maybe as you worship at home, you haven't sung as loud as you would if you were here. -[796.02 --> 800.02] Maybe you haven't participated in the singing at all today. -[800.02 --> 805.02] I want to encourage you just to sing out. -[805.02 --> 812.02] To sing out and to sing in Easter Sunday in a way that we would do if we were all together. -[812.02 --> 822.02] Because the truth is, even in this way, we are together and we can worship our God because He is risen. -[822.02 --> 826.02] Let's sing to our risen Savior today. -[826.02 --> 828.28] . -[828.28 --> 832.84] doctor -[838.84 --> 850.84] so -[850.84 --> 861.12] I will have the risen King who decides to bring Him praise -[861.12 --> 869.44] From all into your hearts to sing to the morning star of grace -[869.44 --> 877.74] From the shifting shadows of the earth we will lift our eyes to Him -[877.74 --> 885.50] Where steady arms of mercy reach to gather children -[885.50 --> 895.24] Rejoice, rejoice, let every tongue rejoice -[895.24 --> 903.12] One heart, one voice, O Church of Christ return -[907.74 --> 914.94] When the mercy's joy is morning sun -[914.94 --> 919.00] And those weeping through the night -[919.00 --> 923.80] On the close to tell of battles won -[923.80 --> 927.84] And those struggling in the right -[927.84 --> 932.68] For His perfect love will never change -[932.68 --> 936.78] And His mercies never cease -[936.78 --> 941.66] God follow us through all our days -[941.66 --> 945.54] With the certain hope of peace -[945.54 --> 953.88] Rejoice, rejoice, let every tongue rejoice -[953.88 --> 958.88] One heart, one voice -[958.88 --> 962.88] O Church of Christ return -[962.88 --> 975.32] Come, John, and all from every land -[975.32 --> 979.26] Men and women of the faith -[979.26 --> 984.38] Come, those with bold or empty hands -[984.38 --> 988.54] Come, the riches of His grace -[988.54 --> 993.34] Over all the world His people sing -[993.34 --> 997.18] Toward the shore we hear them call -[997.18 --> 1002.40] The truth that cries through every hate -[1002.40 --> 1006.40] Our God is all in all -[1006.40 --> 1014.54] Rejoice, rejoice, let every tongue rejoice -[1014.54 --> 1019.74] One heart, one voice -[1019.74 --> 1023.40] O Church of Christ rejoice -[1023.40 --> 1028.70] Rejoice, rejoice, rejoice -[1028.70 --> 1033.14] Let every tongue rejoice -[1033.14 --> 1037.94] One heart, one voice -[1037.94 --> 1040.94] O Church of Christ rejoice -[1040.94 --> 1061.02] Again, I want to thank you for joining with us this morning in worship. -[1061.14 --> 1061.66] My name is Chris. -[1061.82 --> 1063.66] I'm pastor here at Langley Emanuel. -[1063.78 --> 1066.86] And I want to especially welcome those of you who are joining, -[1066.98 --> 1067.94] maybe for the first time. -[1067.94 --> 1071.56] It's Easter Sunday, and so you are looking for a service or a way to participate. -[1072.12 --> 1076.60] We're so excited that even in this way, you can be here with us. -[1077.56 --> 1083.22] Throughout the week, if you're looking to connect with myself or another pastor or some staff here at church, -[1083.30 --> 1085.26] you can give us a call, come on by. -[1085.38 --> 1088.84] You can find us online and find different ways to connect there. -[1089.24 --> 1093.82] We really do encourage you, please, if you are looking for prayer or a connection, -[1093.82 --> 1097.74] call one of us, and we will gladly meet with you. -[1098.44 --> 1107.00] We gather together to worship our God because Jesus Christ is risen and by his spirit he is in this place. -[1107.10 --> 1111.86] And so I invite you to open your heart, maybe your hands, to receive the greeting of our God. -[1111.86 --> 1118.30] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, -[1118.92 --> 1122.74] from the risen Savior Jesus Christ our Lord, -[1123.38 --> 1126.54] in the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[1127.86 --> 1128.24] Amen. -[1128.24 --> 1135.34] Our call to worship today is based on Psalm 118. -[1136.34 --> 1139.54] This is the day that the Lord has made. -[1140.14 --> 1142.96] Let us rejoice and be glad in it. -[1143.72 --> 1146.16] Come, give thanks to our God. -[1146.76 --> 1149.22] His steadfast love endures forever. -[1150.02 --> 1152.66] He is our strength and our salvation. -[1152.66 --> 1157.08] Because of his love, his death, and resurrection, -[1157.72 --> 1160.62] we too can have an eternal life with him. -[1161.46 --> 1162.74] Today we celebrate, -[1163.36 --> 1164.90] Jesus is not dead. -[1165.38 --> 1166.42] He is alive. -[1167.04 --> 1168.08] And he is risen. -[1168.58 --> 1170.18] He is risen indeed. -[1182.66 --> 1194.70] Christ the Lord is risen today. -[1197.70 --> 1198.70] Alleluia. -[1199.22 --> 1203.22] Sons of men and angels say, -[1203.80 --> 1207.38] Alleluia. -[1207.38 --> 1211.94] Raise your joys and triumphs high. -[1212.94 --> 1216.18] Alleluia. -[1216.18 --> 1220.18] See we have the earth reply. -[1221.18 --> 1225.06] Alleluia. -[1225.06 --> 1236.94] Lives again, O glorious King. -[1239.16 --> 1241.00] Alleluia. -[1241.00 --> 1245.38] Where all death is now thy sting. -[1246.12 --> 1249.78] Alleluia. -[1250.30 --> 1254.22] Dying once he all got saved. -[1254.22 --> 1258.02] Alleluia. -[1258.02 --> 1258.58] Alleluia. -[1258.58 --> 1263.14] Where thy victory, O great. -[1265.14 --> 1267.02] Alleluia. -[1268.90 --> 1271.90] He is not dead. -[1273.52 --> 1276.14] He is alive. -[1278.06 --> 1281.02] He has his hope. -[1281.02 --> 1282.02] Alleluia. -[1282.02 --> 1286.02] In Jesus Christ. -[1286.02 --> 1292.02] In love's redeeming work is now. -[1292.02 --> 1296.02] Alleluia. -[1296.02 --> 1297.02] He is alive. -[1297.02 --> 1297.62] He has his wife. -[1297.62 --> 1301.50] Importing life was now. -[1301.72 --> 1303.64] Alleluia. -[1303.64 --> 1306.72] He gives nations to come know. -[1306.72 --> 1307.58] As weして millions and jobs. -[1307.78 --> 1309.52] He gives nations to come know. -[1309.52 --> 1310.38] He gives nations to come know. -[1310.38 --> 1310.52] Werner is mine. -[1310.52 --> 1311.58] In the parodontales. -[1311.58 --> 1312.70] Hallelujah. -[1314.70 --> 1316.68] Christ has opened -[1316.68 --> 1318.94] here at us. -[1320.38 --> 1321.50] Hallelujah. -[1325.08 --> 1327.60] He is not dead. -[1329.44 --> 1331.62] He is alive. -[1333.76 --> 1336.62] We have this hope -[1336.62 --> 1340.62] in Jesus Christ. -[1341.58 --> 1343.58] Amen. -[1360.58 --> 1362.58] Soar we now -[1363.28 --> 1365.68] where Christ has led. -[1368.10 --> 1368.58] Hallelujah. -[1368.58 --> 1369.42] Hallelujah. -[1369.42 --> 1373.40] Following our exalted -[1373.40 --> 1374.50] head. -[1377.06 --> 1377.42] Hallelujah. -[1379.42 --> 1381.02] Made like him, -[1381.14 --> 1383.44] like him we rise. -[1385.42 --> 1386.42] Hallelujah. -[1388.42 --> 1389.42] Hours across -[1389.98 --> 1391.16] the grave, -[1391.26 --> 1392.54] the skies. -[1393.42 --> 1394.42] Hallelujah. -[1394.42 --> 1395.42] Hallelujah. -[1395.42 --> 1396.42] Hallelujah. -[1396.42 --> 1400.42] He is not dead. -[1400.42 --> 1402.42] He is alive. -[1402.42 --> 1404.42] He is alive. -[1404.42 --> 1406.42] He is alive. -[1406.42 --> 1410.42] We have this hope -[1410.42 --> 1413.42] in Jesus Christ. -[1413.42 --> 1414.42] He is not dead. -[1414.42 --> 1415.42] He is alive. -[1415.42 --> 1417.42] We have this hope in Jesus Christ. -[1417.42 --> 1419.42] He is alive. -[1419.42 --> 1420.42] He is alive. -[1420.42 --> 1421.42] He is alive. -[1421.42 --> 1422.42] He is alive. -[1422.42 --> 1423.42] He is alive. -[1423.42 --> 1424.42] He is alive. -[1424.42 --> 1426.42] We have this hope in Jesus Christ. -[1426.42 --> 1428.42] We have this hope in Jesus Christ. -[1428.42 --> 1429.42] Christ the Lord is risen today. -[1429.42 --> 1430.42] Alleluia. -[1430.42 --> 1431.42] Hallelujah. -[1433.42 --> 1434.42] Alleluia. -[1434.42 --> 1435.42] Alleluia. -[1437.42 --> 1438.42] Let's pray together. -[1438.42 --> 1440.52] risen today. -[1445.16 --> 1446.04] Alleluia. -[1450.38 --> 1451.66] Let's pray together. -[1455.18 --> 1458.06] Lord, we come to you this Easter morning -[1458.06 --> 1461.56] praying that our celebration -[1461.56 --> 1465.38] of your resurrection will bring new hope -[1465.38 --> 1466.38] to us today. -[1466.38 --> 1470.44] We pray for our forgiveness of our sinfulness. -[1471.52 --> 1474.96] May the empty tomb help us to leave our guilt -[1474.96 --> 1477.52] and our sorrows at the foot of the cross. -[1478.86 --> 1481.32] May your victory over death be ours -[1481.32 --> 1484.00] as we turn our eyes and our hearts -[1484.00 --> 1486.62] to the promises of heaven. -[1487.98 --> 1490.88] May the hope we have in you and your forgiveness -[1490.88 --> 1493.66] reign in us, in our lives, forever. -[1493.66 --> 1496.60] In your name alone we pray. -[1497.50 --> 1497.80] Amen. -[1497.80 --> 1497.90] Amen. -[1497.90 --> 1500.94] For our children and our lives, -[1500.94 --> 1501.70] let us know your destiny. -[1501.70 --> 1502.10] Amen. -[1502.10 --> 1503.32] Amen. -[1503.32 --> 1504.30] Man's slave is always one person -[1504.30 --> 1506.18] for us to wait our lives -[1506.18 --> 1507.34] in our lives, literally per secaring -[1507.34 --> 1507.68] for us to love our God. -[1507.68 --> 1508.34] He name is only one person -[1508.34 --> 1508.78] for God. -[1508.78 --> 1508.88] Amen. -[1508.88 --> 1510.82] Great. -[1510.82 --> 1534.12] When a star rose, Lamb of God, by his own betrayed, -[1534.12 --> 1546.50] The sin of man and wrath of God has been on Jesus' name. -[1549.58 --> 1560.12] Silent as he stood accused, beaten, mocked, and scorned, -[1560.12 --> 1570.46] Bowing to the Father's will, he took a crown of gold. -[1571.48 --> 1582.12] Oh, that rugged cross, my salvation, where your love poured out over me, -[1582.12 --> 1593.12] Now my soul cries out, Hallelujah, praise and honor unto thee. -[1593.12 --> 1606.96] Scent of heaven, God's own Son, to purchase and redeem, -[1608.46 --> 1618.28] And reconcile the very ones who nailed him to that tree. -[1618.28 --> 1629.62] Oh, that rugged cross, my salvation, where your love poured out over me, -[1630.56 --> 1640.84] Now my soul cries out, Hallelujah, praise and honor unto thee. -[1640.84 --> 1656.28] Now my debt is paid, it is paid in full, By the precious blood that my Jesus spilled, -[1656.60 --> 1666.84] Now the curse of sin has no hold on me, When the Son sets free, always free indeed. -[1666.84 --> 1679.04] Now my debt is paid, it is paid in full, By the precious blood that my Jesus spilled, -[1679.04 --> 1690.18] Now the curse of sin has no hold on me, When the Son sets free, always free indeed. -[1690.18 --> 1700.18] Oh, that rugged cross, my salvation, Where your love poured out over me, -[1700.18 --> 1711.18] Now my soul cries out, Hallelujah, praise and honor unto thee. -[1711.18 --> 1726.18] See the stone is rolled away, Behold the empty tomb, -[1726.18 --> 1737.18] Hallelujah, God be praised, He's risen from the grave, -[1737.18 --> 1749.18] Oh, that rugged cross, my salvation, Where your love poured out over me, -[1749.18 --> 1759.18] Now my soul cries out, Hallelujah, Praise and honor unto thee. -[1759.18 --> 1766.18] Praise and honor unto thee. -[1766.18 --> 1779.52] Good morning, kids. Welcome to Kids' Corner today. -[1779.98 --> 1782.66] I want to get you guys all just to stand up for a minute. -[1783.26 --> 1785.48] Maybe you've been standing, but in case you haven't, stand up. -[1786.06 --> 1788.84] Before we get started, I just want us all to take a little stretch break. -[1788.92 --> 1791.18] Sometimes I need to do this just to focus. -[1791.18 --> 1793.18] Okay, so I want you to just do that with me. -[1793.18 --> 1798.18] Put your hands up, stretch up, and stretch down all the way to your toes. -[1798.18 --> 1801.18] And then some arm circles like this. -[1801.18 --> 1807.18] Awesome. Okay, now take about maybe five to ten steps forward toward your TV, -[1807.18 --> 1811.18] and come and sit down so you're ready for Kids' Corner. -[1811.18 --> 1814.04] All right, it's an extra special day today. -[1814.24 --> 1816.78] You guys know what holiday it is today. -[1816.88 --> 1818.16] We've been talking about it at church. -[1818.28 --> 1819.96] It's Easter Sunday. -[1820.68 --> 1822.82] And Pastor Chris said it's one of his favorite days, -[1822.94 --> 1824.72] and it's one of my favorite days too. -[1825.18 --> 1827.78] And one of my favorite stories of the Bible, like I always say. -[1827.94 --> 1830.76] But today is actually, I think, my favorite one. -[1830.94 --> 1833.06] So I'm excited to be here. -[1833.22 --> 1834.94] And we're going to get started, though, first, -[1834.94 --> 1840.12] before we get to our story with our memory verse. -[1840.44 --> 1840.82] All right. -[1841.48 --> 1844.60] This time we have a verse from the New Testament again. -[1844.72 --> 1847.52] It's from the book of John, chapter 3, verse 16. -[1847.52 --> 1852.14] And it's a super famous one, but it's a really important one to know. -[1852.28 --> 1855.18] So let's read it together first, and then we'll do some actions. -[1855.18 --> 1861.34] For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, -[1861.78 --> 1864.76] that whoever believes in him will not perish. -[1865.48 --> 1866.96] Another word for that is die. -[1867.40 --> 1870.72] Or will not perish, but have eternal life. -[1871.00 --> 1872.16] John 3, 16. -[1873.50 --> 1873.80] All right. -[1873.84 --> 1877.18] So let's do some actions to help get this verse into our minds here. -[1877.26 --> 1880.14] So I invite everyone, however old you are, to join me. -[1880.88 --> 1884.22] The beginning, it gets easy, and then it gets a little tricky with the actions. -[1884.22 --> 1885.78] So watch closely. -[1886.40 --> 1888.00] We'll start with the action for God. -[1888.08 --> 1890.22] We've done this one before, and it's taking your hand -[1890.22 --> 1891.92] and just going straight down your body. -[1892.18 --> 1901.04] So for God so loved the world, he gave his one and only Son, -[1902.02 --> 1907.34] that whoever believes in him shall not perish. -[1908.12 --> 1909.50] So for this, I'll just show you. -[1909.50 --> 1912.98] You're going to take one palm face up, one palm face down, -[1912.98 --> 1916.08] and then you're going to switch them, and then switch them back. -[1916.62 --> 1921.42] So perish like this, but have eternal life. -[1921.74 --> 1924.64] So eternal, we're going to start by pointing up and making a little circle, -[1925.08 --> 1928.86] and then we're going to switch, and you're going to stick your thumb and your pinky out, -[1928.94 --> 1931.92] put the rest of the fingers away, and kind of like you're going off a jump. -[1932.28 --> 1933.24] Life like this. -[1933.82 --> 1936.08] So it goes eternal life. -[1936.26 --> 1938.38] They kind of go right into one another. -[1938.38 --> 1939.96] I think you can do it. -[1940.02 --> 1942.16] So let's just try it one more time all together, -[1942.16 --> 1944.16] and then we'll practice this throughout the month. -[1945.76 --> 1951.12] For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, -[1951.62 --> 1957.92] that whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life. -[1958.58 --> 1960.10] John 3, 16. -[1960.96 --> 1961.32] Awesome. -[1961.52 --> 1962.52] Thanks for joining me in that. -[1963.00 --> 1964.82] So we're going to get started on our story, -[1964.94 --> 1967.26] but first I have to tell you a little warning. -[1967.26 --> 1969.78] So today, Kids' Corner is going to be in two parts. -[1969.90 --> 1973.20] So this is part one, and then after the sermon's done, -[1973.24 --> 1974.26] you're going to have to come back. -[1974.34 --> 1977.02] So don't go running off too far after the sermon, -[1977.12 --> 1978.36] because I'm going to come back up here, -[1978.44 --> 1981.24] and we have to finish the second part of our story after. -[1982.58 --> 1984.14] First, before we get started, I have a question. -[1984.26 --> 1986.86] Has anyone ever been on a roller coaster? -[1987.50 --> 1989.08] Put your hand up if you've been on a roller coaster. -[1989.60 --> 1991.28] So I really like roller coasters, -[1991.58 --> 1993.18] although it's been a while since I've been on one. -[1993.80 --> 1996.66] And Easter to me always kind of reminds me of a roller coaster, -[1996.66 --> 1998.58] because what does a roller coaster do? -[1999.02 --> 2001.88] It goes up and down and up and down and around, -[2002.18 --> 2004.38] and you kind of get all jumbled up in your head. -[2005.14 --> 2006.52] And the really best roller coasters, -[2006.70 --> 2010.48] they bring out this feeling inside you that's both terrified, -[2010.78 --> 2013.36] but also really excited and happy. -[2013.76 --> 2015.66] And if a good roller coaster isn't terrifying, -[2015.78 --> 2017.96] then it's probably not good enough for me. -[2018.46 --> 2020.14] So Easter reminds me of that, -[2020.20 --> 2021.78] because we get through Good Friday, -[2022.08 --> 2024.88] and it brings out a lot of sadness, and it's hard. -[2024.88 --> 2026.18] And then we get Easter Sunday, -[2026.18 --> 2029.08] and now we're jumping over to joyful and happy. -[2030.04 --> 2032.38] And we're going to kind of talk about both of those things today. -[2032.56 --> 2035.74] So before we get started, I've got to get my props here. -[2041.74 --> 2042.54] All right. -[2044.00 --> 2044.44] Okay. -[2045.08 --> 2047.06] So, my story too. -[2047.18 --> 2050.06] We're going to start here with some special items -[2050.06 --> 2052.00] I can show you as the story goes. -[2053.42 --> 2055.68] You remember last week with Mr. Mike, -[2055.76 --> 2058.50] we talked about Peter denying Jesus. -[2058.62 --> 2060.24] So you remember that Jesus got arrested, -[2060.54 --> 2061.64] and they took him away. -[2061.98 --> 2064.02] So this is the continuation of that. -[2064.14 --> 2067.08] So Jesus now is in the hands of the authorities, -[2067.44 --> 2069.52] and people aren't very happy with him. -[2069.64 --> 2071.38] So let's read what happens. -[2071.38 --> 2075.68] The night of Jesus' arrest was a sad night. -[2076.28 --> 2077.88] Jesus heard the angry crowd, -[2078.32 --> 2079.30] Crucify him! -[2079.54 --> 2080.32] Crucify him! -[2080.36 --> 2080.86] They shouted. -[2081.76 --> 2084.08] Pilate, their ruler, he was puzzled. -[2084.88 --> 2086.56] What crime has Jesus done? -[2086.70 --> 2087.50] He asked the crowd. -[2087.86 --> 2089.54] But the people just shouted louder, -[2089.68 --> 2090.48] Crucify him! -[2091.44 --> 2093.04] So Pilate's soldiers, -[2093.22 --> 2094.34] they whipped Jesus, -[2094.80 --> 2096.10] and they made fun of him. -[2096.74 --> 2099.98] They put a sharp crown of thorns on Jesus' head. -[2099.98 --> 2102.98] I have an example here of a crown of thorns. -[2103.20 --> 2104.38] It even has a string, -[2104.52 --> 2106.04] and the box that this came in -[2106.04 --> 2108.30] had like a liability disclaimer -[2108.30 --> 2110.70] about not making a big deal -[2110.70 --> 2111.80] if you get injured by this. -[2111.86 --> 2112.56] It's quite sharp. -[2112.66 --> 2113.54] It's real thorns. -[2114.68 --> 2116.54] I can't imagine being this shoved on my head. -[2116.68 --> 2117.98] It would not feel great. -[2118.72 --> 2120.96] Look, they put one of these on Jesus' head, -[2121.78 --> 2123.96] and they spit on him, -[2124.02 --> 2126.32] and they made fun of him again and again. -[2126.74 --> 2127.80] Then they put, -[2127.80 --> 2130.60] the soldiers put a heavy cross on his back, -[2131.14 --> 2133.22] and Jesus tried to walk. -[2133.28 --> 2133.82] He stumbled. -[2133.98 --> 2134.54] He fell. -[2135.66 --> 2136.92] At the top of the hill, -[2137.44 --> 2138.14] the soldiers, -[2138.26 --> 2140.58] they nailed Jesus to a cross. -[2140.58 --> 2158.66] They pounded that cross into the ground, -[2158.86 --> 2160.72] and people still came by, -[2160.82 --> 2161.94] and they made fun of him. -[2162.36 --> 2162.82] They said, -[2162.92 --> 2164.94] well, if you're really the son of God, -[2165.04 --> 2166.36] why don't you save yourself? -[2166.36 --> 2168.92] The nails, -[2169.14 --> 2170.96] those would have hurt very much. -[2171.40 --> 2172.32] So did the teasing, -[2172.72 --> 2174.42] but Jesus didn't come down, -[2174.78 --> 2175.86] even though he could have. -[2176.22 --> 2178.94] He stayed on the cross for you and for me. -[2180.02 --> 2180.92] At noon, -[2181.02 --> 2182.98] around what we call lunchtime, -[2183.06 --> 2184.32] something really strange happened. -[2184.42 --> 2185.98] The sun disappeared, -[2186.48 --> 2188.62] and the sky turned very dark like night. -[2189.18 --> 2189.94] What's happening? -[2190.04 --> 2191.16] The people asked each other. -[2191.38 --> 2192.10] It was frightening. -[2192.10 --> 2195.20] Then Jesus cried out in a loud voice, -[2195.70 --> 2196.30] my God, -[2196.46 --> 2197.08] my God, -[2197.22 --> 2198.96] why have you forgotten me? -[2199.64 --> 2201.32] And then Jesus died. -[2203.26 --> 2203.78] Well, -[2203.84 --> 2204.70] later that afternoon, -[2204.82 --> 2206.02] some of Jesus' friends, -[2206.32 --> 2206.96] they came, -[2207.08 --> 2209.86] and they asked to take Jesus' body down from the cross. -[2211.24 --> 2213.20] We're going to use these marshmallows here -[2213.20 --> 2214.82] to represent Jesus' body. -[2216.06 --> 2216.56] Okay, -[2216.72 --> 2218.84] this is going to be our Jesus for the next part. -[2218.84 --> 2222.24] They wanted to put, -[2222.54 --> 2224.12] they wanted to bury him in their tomb, -[2224.22 --> 2225.14] so they took his body, -[2225.26 --> 2227.44] and they put some special oil and spices, -[2227.64 --> 2228.78] like would have been their custom. -[2229.52 --> 2232.08] I'm going to pretend that this butter here is the oil, -[2233.08 --> 2236.14] and then some spices here is the cinnamon and the sugar. -[2242.08 --> 2243.20] After they had done that, -[2243.26 --> 2244.18] they took his body, -[2244.52 --> 2247.08] and they wrapped him up in clean cloths. -[2247.08 --> 2250.08] I'm going to use one of these rules here. -[2250.70 --> 2251.84] And they would have wrapped him up. -[2252.80 --> 2253.18] And remember, -[2253.30 --> 2254.58] these people were Jesus' friends, -[2254.68 --> 2257.50] so they were doing this to honor Jesus. -[2258.56 --> 2260.08] And they wrapped him all up. -[2262.38 --> 2263.10] And then, -[2263.78 --> 2266.66] they took him, -[2266.78 --> 2267.88] and they put him in the tomb. -[2267.88 --> 2275.42] And they closed it. -[2277.94 --> 2280.92] And they rolled a huge stone in front of the entrance, -[2281.24 --> 2282.50] and then they left the garden. -[2283.22 --> 2283.38] Now, -[2283.48 --> 2283.86] Pilate, -[2283.94 --> 2284.30] the ruler, -[2284.42 --> 2286.88] he was afraid that they might come and steal his body, -[2287.00 --> 2289.84] so he sent some soldiers to guard the entrance. -[2290.74 --> 2291.94] And it was all quiet, -[2292.40 --> 2293.22] and it was sad. -[2294.42 --> 2295.24] Jesus was dead. -[2295.24 --> 2295.28] Jesus was dead. -[2297.88 --> 2298.84] Now, -[2298.90 --> 2301.30] don't forget to come back for the next part, -[2301.34 --> 2302.04] after the sermon, -[2302.92 --> 2304.10] to see what happens after. -[2304.10 --> 2325.92] He is risen. -[2326.36 --> 2327.52] He is risen indeed. -[2328.04 --> 2328.74] Good morning. -[2328.74 --> 2331.24] My name is Kevin Vischer. -[2331.80 --> 2335.38] I'm the serving elder this morning on Easter Sunday. -[2336.28 --> 2339.92] We're going to continue our worship with our offerings and tithes. -[2341.38 --> 2342.54] For the first one, -[2342.64 --> 2344.08] it's for Langley Emanuel, -[2344.40 --> 2345.20] CRC Ministries, -[2345.36 --> 2346.04] and Missions. -[2347.30 --> 2349.04] And the second one is for Resonate, -[2349.32 --> 2350.38] Global Mission. -[2351.56 --> 2354.32] Continuing the good work of home missions and world missions, -[2354.56 --> 2357.78] Resonate's vision is to bring the gospel to people. -[2357.78 --> 2359.26] Neighborhoods, -[2359.48 --> 2360.06] communities, -[2361.02 --> 2365.08] churches in the world to embolden them in participating in God's mission, -[2366.10 --> 2368.98] and faithfully proclaiming and living out the good news of Jesus. -[2368.98 --> 2371.72] Next week, -[2371.72 --> 2377.32] we have a special offering for World Renew Refugee Sponsorship and Resettlement. -[2378.80 --> 2380.72] Proverbs 3, 9 to 10 says, -[2380.80 --> 2385.42] Honor the Lord with your wealth and the first fruits of all your produce. -[2386.38 --> 2388.60] And then your barns will be filled with plenty, -[2388.80 --> 2390.90] and your vats will be bursting with wine. -[2390.90 --> 2394.64] We've been blessed to be a blessing. -[2395.52 --> 2396.48] So give generously, -[2397.10 --> 2399.56] as the Lord has been generous to you. -[2401.38 --> 2402.74] And you can give -[2402.74 --> 2406.08] from many of the ways that are available through our website, -[2406.54 --> 2408.50] electronically and such. -[2408.50 --> 2415.90] Before I go to the congregational prayer or family prayer, -[2416.28 --> 2419.76] I do have an announcement from council to make this morning. -[2421.42 --> 2427.30] We're in the season of nominating office bearers for council. -[2427.30 --> 2430.82] Jesus Christ has set up his church -[2430.82 --> 2433.66] and has promised to provide leadership for her. -[2434.56 --> 2436.94] As Ephesians 4, 12 to 13 states, -[2437.62 --> 2439.58] to equip his people for works of service -[2439.58 --> 2441.74] so that the body of Christ may be built up -[2441.74 --> 2444.90] until we all reach unity in the faith -[2444.90 --> 2447.28] and in the knowledge of the Son of God -[2447.28 --> 2448.86] and become mature, -[2449.36 --> 2451.84] attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. -[2451.84 --> 2457.40] We know that God calls each of us to serve in the church, -[2458.22 --> 2460.14] and some as elders and deacons. -[2461.14 --> 2463.16] In the call of the church through nominations, -[2463.42 --> 2468.02] the call of God is to serve the bride of Christ. -[2469.82 --> 2471.18] This week will be, -[2471.82 --> 2475.84] well, there will be electronic nomination form -[2475.84 --> 2477.84] sent in the midweek memo -[2477.84 --> 2480.00] and next Sunday's e-bulletin. -[2480.00 --> 2485.00] It will be accessible for all members of this congregation -[2485.00 --> 2487.00] from now until April 19th, -[2487.46 --> 2489.96] when the nomination process will close. -[2490.92 --> 2494.58] If accessing this electronic form is difficult for you at home, -[2495.20 --> 2496.64] please contact your district elder. -[2497.34 --> 2499.02] Paper copies can be made available -[2499.02 --> 2501.26] to be delivered or picked up at the church office. -[2501.26 --> 2504.62] There are several vacancies, -[2505.30 --> 2506.58] seven to be exact, -[2507.32 --> 2509.08] in all three offices on council, -[2509.44 --> 2512.94] including admin elder, pastoral elder, and deacon. -[2512.94 --> 2516.98] We ask that you please contact the person -[2516.98 --> 2517.94] you would like to nominate -[2517.94 --> 2521.68] before nominating them through the electronic form. -[2522.58 --> 2524.28] They need to agree to be nominated. -[2525.66 --> 2527.66] If you have any clarifying questions -[2527.66 --> 2528.94] regarding this nomination process, -[2529.94 --> 2532.60] please contact your district elder or me -[2532.60 --> 2536.78] at council, council at licrc.ca. -[2537.60 --> 2538.16] Thank you. -[2538.16 --> 2544.40] Please join me in our church family prayer this morning. -[2549.88 --> 2552.00] Lord God, you love this world so much -[2552.00 --> 2554.54] that you gave your one and only son -[2554.54 --> 2557.18] that we might be called your children too. -[2558.30 --> 2561.76] With resurrection power, you have given us freedom. -[2562.76 --> 2565.20] No longer bound by sin and darkness, -[2565.20 --> 2567.54] we are living in the light of your goodness. -[2568.76 --> 2571.60] Lord, help us to live in the gladness and grace -[2571.60 --> 2574.16] of Easter Sunday, every day. -[2575.18 --> 2577.98] Let us have hearts of thankfulness for your sacrifice. -[2579.22 --> 2581.40] Let us have eyes that look upon your grace -[2581.40 --> 2583.24] and rejoice in our salvation. -[2584.18 --> 2586.96] And help us to walk in that mighty grace -[2586.96 --> 2590.50] and tell your good news to the world today. -[2590.50 --> 2595.94] Lord, as we celebrate the holidays like Easter this weekend, -[2596.06 --> 2599.28] we continue to pray for families that have lost loved ones, -[2600.04 --> 2602.64] asking them that you sustain them with your peace -[2602.64 --> 2604.42] during this time. -[2606.18 --> 2609.20] We pray for comfort and strength for the Wind family -[2609.20 --> 2611.62] in the passing of Sam's brother -[2611.62 --> 2614.62] after a battle with pancreatic cancer. -[2614.62 --> 2617.88] May they experience your presence -[2617.88 --> 2621.86] as they remember and celebrate his life. -[2623.64 --> 2625.96] We also pray for comfort and peace -[2625.96 --> 2629.04] that passes all understanding on Pastor George Kulin, -[2629.90 --> 2631.96] the Kulin and Rietkirk families, -[2632.46 --> 2636.18] and the Bridge Church in the passing of Kim Kulin on Friday. -[2637.84 --> 2640.26] Despite the grief that comes with loss, -[2640.64 --> 2642.78] there is comfort in knowing George's wife Kim -[2642.78 --> 2644.30] is free from fighting cancer. -[2646.86 --> 2649.46] We pray for families expecting babies. -[2649.62 --> 2651.46] And Lord, we celebrate in thanksgiving -[2651.46 --> 2653.94] with Daniel and Ismay Howling, -[2654.48 --> 2657.18] who are blessed with a healthy baby girl, Daphne. -[2658.22 --> 2661.10] We give thanks for this precious new life. -[2663.94 --> 2666.30] And Lord, we pray for the nomination process. -[2667.20 --> 2669.26] Lord, we know that you are calling a number of people -[2669.26 --> 2672.24] to serve in this unique capacity of leadership. -[2673.40 --> 2674.76] Whoever you have in mind, -[2675.52 --> 2677.06] may they hear your voice clearly, -[2677.20 --> 2679.52] and may they have the courage to accept your call -[2679.52 --> 2681.12] in the coming weeks. -[2682.88 --> 2684.78] Lord, we pray for those in our congregation, -[2684.94 --> 2686.16] as well as friends and family -[2686.16 --> 2688.64] who suffer from chronic and serious health issues -[2688.64 --> 2690.44] on a daily basis. -[2691.44 --> 2694.34] May they experience your provision and nearness each day. -[2694.34 --> 2698.42] We pray for those who are struggling with hurting -[2698.42 --> 2699.76] and broken relationships. -[2700.60 --> 2702.52] May they experience reconciliation, -[2703.28 --> 2704.86] restoration, and healing. -[2706.14 --> 2709.64] And in the event the relationship cannot be restored, -[2709.78 --> 2711.48] Lord, we pray for strength and protection -[2711.48 --> 2714.02] on the children that may be involved -[2714.02 --> 2715.92] in any custody arrangements. -[2717.08 --> 2719.52] May they experience your unfailing love. -[2719.52 --> 2723.40] Lord, we pray for your nearness to all those -[2723.40 --> 2725.06] in our congregation who are shut in, -[2725.38 --> 2728.32] isolated, or may be experiencing loneliness, -[2729.00 --> 2730.14] depression, and anxiety. -[2731.04 --> 2732.92] We pray for strength and encouragement -[2732.92 --> 2734.22] during their difficulties, -[2734.96 --> 2737.18] and for protection over them and their caregivers. -[2738.72 --> 2740.74] May it serve as a reminder for us -[2740.74 --> 2742.32] and the church family to reach out -[2742.32 --> 2745.06] and to connect with those in need. -[2745.06 --> 2749.62] Lord, we're praying for families impacted by COVID -[2749.62 --> 2750.62] over the Easter weekend. -[2751.44 --> 2753.30] We know that we haven't been able to have -[2753.30 --> 2754.52] the gatherings we wanted -[2754.52 --> 2756.80] and see all the people we'd like to see. -[2757.76 --> 2759.82] Many of us are suffering from COVID fatigue -[2759.82 --> 2761.86] and as a result are sometimes not making -[2761.86 --> 2763.24] the best decisions. -[2765.04 --> 2767.38] Lord, we're praying for an end to this pandemic. -[2768.60 --> 2770.70] We're thankful the vaccines are here -[2770.70 --> 2771.62] and getting in arms. -[2772.48 --> 2774.52] We're hopeful the vaccines will have an impact -[2774.52 --> 2776.04] on preventing further spread -[2776.04 --> 2778.00] and people from being sick. -[2779.14 --> 2781.62] However, as cases of variants continue to rise, -[2781.74 --> 2783.86] we continue to pray for wisdom and discernment -[2783.86 --> 2785.42] for our various government leaders, -[2786.38 --> 2787.66] including our health officers, -[2787.76 --> 2790.94] as they do their best to protect all of us. -[2792.38 --> 2794.46] We pray for the COVID long haulers, -[2794.54 --> 2796.00] the young and old that have recovered -[2796.00 --> 2797.44] but still have lasting symptoms -[2797.44 --> 2799.06] from the disease that is impacting -[2799.06 --> 2800.30] their quality of life. -[2801.52 --> 2803.14] Many of them suffer with fatigue -[2803.14 --> 2804.66] and difficulty breathing -[2804.66 --> 2807.38] are unable to work or return to work -[2807.38 --> 2810.46] and are struggling with normal daily tasks. -[2813.04 --> 2815.38] Lord, we continue to pray for insight and wisdom -[2815.38 --> 2817.70] for the leadership of Emmanuel Syracie as well. -[2817.70 --> 2822.20] as we are, as those who are volunteering their time, -[2822.90 --> 2825.24] we pray for a spirit of patience and grace -[2825.24 --> 2827.36] and cooperation as we continue to work together -[2827.36 --> 2829.58] in navigating the health authority orders. -[2831.44 --> 2832.54] Pray for all of us, -[2832.64 --> 2834.36] that we will continue to have the patience -[2834.36 --> 2836.62] to practice the measures required to be safe -[2836.62 --> 2840.32] and considerate of those with whom we are in contact -[2840.32 --> 2842.04] for the safety and benefit of all. -[2843.64 --> 2845.14] And Lord, we pray for Pastor Chris, -[2845.14 --> 2846.62] who delivers your word this morning. -[2847.84 --> 2849.72] May you give him the words to share. -[2850.48 --> 2852.56] May we have the ears and the hearts to hear -[2852.56 --> 2855.20] and put into practice in our daily week, -[2855.48 --> 2856.64] our weekly routines. -[2857.64 --> 2859.96] So Lord, we pray for strength in the hard times, -[2860.42 --> 2862.52] for joy in the happy times, -[2863.26 --> 2864.00] and most of all, -[2864.06 --> 2865.90] to remember the hope we have in Jesus, -[2866.58 --> 2868.84] the one who died for us and has risen. -[2869.68 --> 2871.20] All for the glory we pray. -[2871.20 --> 2874.04] Lord, amen. -[2875.14 --> 2883.72] Good morning. -[2884.10 --> 2887.30] As we spend some time in God's word, -[2887.36 --> 2889.36] we're going to look at Luke 24. -[2890.34 --> 2892.10] And really, we're going to spend some time -[2892.10 --> 2893.90] looking at the whole of Luke 24. -[2894.20 --> 2896.38] And so I'm going to do things a little bit differently -[2896.38 --> 2897.54] with you this morning, -[2897.96 --> 2901.40] in that I'm not going to start by reading the text beforehand. -[2901.40 --> 2905.18] But if you have a Bible in your hands, -[2905.18 --> 2908.64] it will be really helpful as we refer to different places -[2908.64 --> 2911.14] and to the story as we go. -[2911.26 --> 2914.44] And so if you need to quickly grab a Bible from somewhere, -[2914.58 --> 2916.24] or maybe it's your phone, -[2916.38 --> 2917.64] grab that, turn it on, -[2918.06 --> 2919.46] get Luke 24 ready, -[2920.14 --> 2924.68] because we will dive into different parts of that story together. -[2924.68 --> 2932.80] You know, by way of introduction to my message this morning, -[2933.14 --> 2934.48] I'm going to ask a question. -[2934.56 --> 2937.66] That's a question that is actually from Luke 9. -[2937.80 --> 2941.06] In Luke chapter 9, Jesus asks Peter, -[2941.56 --> 2942.86] and he says to Peter, -[2942.98 --> 2943.70] What about you? -[2944.32 --> 2946.94] Who do you say that I am? -[2946.94 --> 2953.24] That is the most important question ever asked. -[2954.24 --> 2955.52] Not only by Jesus to Peter, -[2955.70 --> 2958.06] but to you and to our lives. -[2958.58 --> 2961.82] Who do you say that Jesus is? -[2962.54 --> 2964.50] How you answer that question -[2964.50 --> 2967.92] will have a direct impact on your life. -[2968.90 --> 2971.14] Equally, how you live -[2971.14 --> 2975.04] will tell everyone how you answer that question. -[2975.04 --> 2978.56] Perhaps even more than the words you speak. -[2979.56 --> 2982.00] Because, to be frank, -[2982.38 --> 2985.12] if Jesus changes nothing, -[2985.86 --> 2986.86] then who cares? -[2988.00 --> 2988.84] Why bother? -[2989.28 --> 2990.02] What's the point? -[2991.92 --> 2994.12] But if Jesus changes everything, -[2995.00 --> 2996.74] then everything changes. -[2998.18 --> 3000.26] That's what I want us to see this morning -[3000.26 --> 3002.28] as we look at Luke 24. -[3002.28 --> 3005.22] The theme for our time here in this text -[3005.22 --> 3007.38] is that Jesus changes everything -[3007.38 --> 3009.52] because he changed everything. -[3009.96 --> 3011.94] And because Jesus changed everything, -[3012.30 --> 3014.74] everything about you changes. -[3016.44 --> 3018.26] Jesus changes everything -[3018.26 --> 3020.62] because he changed everything. -[3020.76 --> 3022.84] Now, how did Jesus change everything? -[3023.84 --> 3026.62] In a word, resurrection. -[3027.98 --> 3029.36] Because of the resurrection, -[3029.36 --> 3031.84] Jesus changes everything. -[3033.86 --> 3037.46] Because I believe that this is true, -[3037.64 --> 3039.20] I want to show you this morning -[3039.20 --> 3041.14] three things about the resurrection -[3041.14 --> 3043.58] and what is changed by it. -[3043.96 --> 3045.20] And we're going to do that together -[3045.20 --> 3047.36] under three different headings. -[3047.82 --> 3047.96] Right? -[3048.10 --> 3049.94] Truth, witness, and mission. -[3050.50 --> 3052.04] The truth of the resurrection, -[3052.60 --> 3054.90] the witness of the resurrection, -[3054.90 --> 3058.30] and the mission of the resurrection. -[3059.18 --> 3061.56] Let's start with that first part. -[3062.34 --> 3064.52] Jesus changed everything. -[3064.94 --> 3065.54] And honestly, -[3066.40 --> 3070.90] for some of you participating at home -[3070.90 --> 3072.02] and maybe even here, -[3072.78 --> 3073.98] this is the hard part. -[3075.48 --> 3075.62] Right? -[3075.66 --> 3078.60] Some of us think that Jesus changed some things, -[3078.60 --> 3079.78] but not everything. -[3079.78 --> 3083.94] Some of us think that Jesus was just a dude -[3083.94 --> 3085.54] who lived 2,000 years ago, -[3085.68 --> 3087.34] and so why should he have any bearing on me -[3087.34 --> 3088.24] and my life today? -[3089.16 --> 3090.10] There are people, -[3090.22 --> 3092.44] and maybe not listening here and right now, -[3092.52 --> 3093.68] but in your families, -[3093.80 --> 3096.52] in your friends at school or at work, -[3096.58 --> 3097.72] your sons or daughters, -[3097.80 --> 3099.26] there are people who think -[3099.26 --> 3101.26] that the Jesus of the Bible is just made up. -[3103.44 --> 3104.42] Even more likely, -[3104.54 --> 3105.82] for those of us listening right now, -[3106.42 --> 3108.12] there are some of us listening -[3108.12 --> 3109.72] who just don't care. -[3111.06 --> 3112.40] We don't really see why we should. -[3114.10 --> 3115.20] Let me be clear on that, right? -[3115.28 --> 3117.98] Some of you have called yourself Christian -[3117.98 --> 3120.66] or been called Christian your entire life, -[3120.78 --> 3123.62] and this last one of not really caring -[3123.62 --> 3125.06] why you should care -[3125.06 --> 3127.74] describes you to a T. -[3129.60 --> 3130.48] And you know what? -[3131.36 --> 3132.44] Honestly, genuinely, -[3132.98 --> 3134.24] I get it. -[3135.36 --> 3136.84] More than you can know, -[3137.10 --> 3137.90] I get it. -[3138.56 --> 3139.82] It's hard to believe. -[3140.42 --> 3141.46] Some of this, -[3141.76 --> 3143.60] especially today on Easter Sunday, -[3143.68 --> 3144.88] maybe most of this, -[3145.14 --> 3147.40] doesn't make ordinary sense. -[3150.78 --> 3152.90] But that's why this story is so beautiful. -[3153.58 --> 3155.28] Because even for those of us -[3155.28 --> 3156.38] who don't get it, -[3157.34 --> 3158.08] even for those of us -[3158.08 --> 3158.78] who struggle to believe, -[3158.86 --> 3161.20] we find ourselves in this story. -[3161.28 --> 3162.16] You got your Bible handy? -[3162.26 --> 3163.68] Look with me at a few verses. -[3163.84 --> 3165.80] Look at verse 11. -[3165.80 --> 3168.52] So the women have gone to the tomb. -[3168.66 --> 3170.00] They have seen it empty. -[3170.14 --> 3172.16] They have heard from the angels. -[3172.32 --> 3173.80] We're reminded of what Jesus has said. -[3173.88 --> 3176.00] They went back to tell the other disciples. -[3176.42 --> 3176.94] Verse 11, -[3177.34 --> 3180.16] but they did not believe the women -[3180.16 --> 3182.62] because their words seemed to them -[3182.62 --> 3184.00] like nonsense. -[3186.08 --> 3186.92] For some of us, -[3186.96 --> 3188.60] this seems like nonsense. -[3188.60 --> 3189.92] Right? -[3190.00 --> 3190.94] Verse 17, -[3190.94 --> 3192.40] they stood still, -[3192.60 --> 3194.70] their faces downcast. -[3195.76 --> 3198.06] It's hard to believe. -[3198.06 --> 3200.44] verse 21, -[3201.40 --> 3203.44] on the road to Emmaus, -[3203.54 --> 3203.98] the story, -[3204.54 --> 3206.72] the two disciples have left Jerusalem -[3206.72 --> 3207.92] after the crucifixion. -[3208.46 --> 3210.26] They are despondent and broken -[3210.26 --> 3212.06] and they say to this person -[3212.06 --> 3213.04] whom they are walking with, -[3213.08 --> 3214.68] who we later find out to be Jesus, -[3215.08 --> 3216.82] we had hoped that he was the one -[3216.82 --> 3218.72] who was going to redeem Israel. -[3219.06 --> 3219.90] We had hoped that, -[3220.00 --> 3221.48] but the implication there is, -[3222.00 --> 3224.06] now we just don't know. -[3224.06 --> 3227.34] Verse 37, -[3227.50 --> 3229.42] Jesus appears to his disciples later. -[3229.78 --> 3231.04] They were startled and frightened -[3231.04 --> 3232.50] thinking they saw a ghost. -[3234.30 --> 3235.62] Belief can be hard -[3235.62 --> 3238.30] because this isn't ordinary -[3238.30 --> 3241.22] in our experience of life. -[3241.42 --> 3243.10] What we are talking about here -[3243.10 --> 3245.08] is hard and extraordinary -[3245.08 --> 3246.18] and for many of us, -[3246.24 --> 3247.44] it defies logic -[3247.44 --> 3248.44] or at least it defies -[3248.44 --> 3250.86] our ordinary experience of reality. -[3250.86 --> 3255.34] Can I let you in on an open secret? -[3257.02 --> 3259.02] That's been Jesus all along. -[3260.06 --> 3261.60] Since the very beginning, -[3262.28 --> 3263.86] Jesus has defied -[3263.86 --> 3265.80] our ordinary experience of reality. -[3266.14 --> 3267.96] In the story of his incarnation, -[3268.70 --> 3270.10] you have this virgin woman -[3270.10 --> 3273.54] who is become pregnant with child -[3273.54 --> 3276.34] and she bears the son of God. -[3277.04 --> 3278.38] You have God-man, -[3278.38 --> 3279.66] fully human, -[3280.10 --> 3280.74] fully God -[3280.74 --> 3283.34] in one person -[3283.34 --> 3285.16] we call Jesus. -[3286.20 --> 3287.48] And if we have a God-man -[3287.48 --> 3288.48] who comes into the world, -[3288.58 --> 3289.24] that also means -[3289.24 --> 3290.74] we need a Savior -[3290.74 --> 3292.52] to save us from ourselves. -[3293.40 --> 3294.68] But not just the incarnation, -[3294.98 --> 3296.02] not just the beginning of the story, -[3296.10 --> 3296.66] all throughout -[3296.66 --> 3298.16] has been beyond -[3298.16 --> 3299.86] our ordinary experience of reality. -[3299.96 --> 3301.06] Even Jesus' teaching -[3301.06 --> 3302.16] can be hard. -[3302.70 --> 3304.32] Jesus says things like, -[3304.32 --> 3306.06] if you want to gain your life, -[3306.16 --> 3307.10] you must lose it. -[3307.10 --> 3309.16] Jesus says things like, -[3309.46 --> 3310.24] blessed are the poor. -[3312.12 --> 3312.74] Blessed are you -[3312.74 --> 3314.00] when people insult you -[3314.00 --> 3315.12] and persecute you -[3315.12 --> 3316.22] and falsely say -[3316.22 --> 3317.12] all kinds of evil -[3317.12 --> 3317.68] against you -[3317.68 --> 3318.36] because of me. -[3319.04 --> 3320.14] Jesus tells us -[3320.14 --> 3322.26] to love our enemies. -[3323.82 --> 3326.42] Jesus says something like, -[3326.68 --> 3328.12] if your right eye -[3328.12 --> 3329.40] causes you to sin, -[3330.08 --> 3330.82] gouge it out. -[3330.82 --> 3332.08] He says, -[3332.18 --> 3333.48] if you want to be perfect, -[3333.62 --> 3335.22] go and sell all your possessions -[3335.22 --> 3336.08] and give to the poor -[3336.08 --> 3336.94] and then you will have -[3336.94 --> 3338.26] treasures in heaven. -[3338.94 --> 3340.36] Then come and follow me. -[3341.30 --> 3342.20] And what Jesus teaches -[3342.20 --> 3342.82] in his life -[3342.82 --> 3344.54] is that radical obedience -[3344.54 --> 3345.88] to God, -[3345.98 --> 3346.58] to him, -[3346.66 --> 3347.58] is life. -[3347.66 --> 3349.00] And that's counterintuitive -[3349.00 --> 3350.06] in our culture. -[3350.60 --> 3351.58] That doesn't make sense -[3351.58 --> 3352.42] to us. -[3352.52 --> 3354.06] And then finally now, -[3355.18 --> 3356.38] the story of the resurrection. -[3356.38 --> 3361.08] On the first day of the week, -[3361.80 --> 3363.06] very early in the morning, -[3363.88 --> 3365.10] the women took the spices -[3365.10 --> 3365.86] they had prepared -[3365.86 --> 3366.68] and went to the tomb. -[3368.04 --> 3369.34] They found the stone -[3369.34 --> 3370.62] rolled away from the tomb. -[3371.12 --> 3371.80] But when they entered, -[3371.90 --> 3372.92] they did not find the body -[3372.92 --> 3373.70] of the Lord Jesus. -[3374.74 --> 3375.72] And while they were wondering -[3375.72 --> 3376.32] about this, -[3376.40 --> 3377.78] suddenly two men in clothes -[3377.78 --> 3379.02] that gleamed like lightning -[3379.02 --> 3380.00] stood beside them. -[3380.16 --> 3381.12] And in their fright, -[3381.20 --> 3382.02] the women bowed -[3382.02 --> 3383.60] with their faces to the ground. -[3383.60 --> 3384.68] But the men said to them, -[3384.98 --> 3386.68] Why do you look for the living -[3386.68 --> 3387.78] among the dead? -[3387.86 --> 3388.92] He is not here. -[3389.00 --> 3389.74] He has risen. -[3390.54 --> 3392.20] Remember how he told you -[3392.20 --> 3394.40] while he was still with you -[3394.40 --> 3395.04] in Galilee. -[3395.40 --> 3396.28] The Son of Man -[3396.28 --> 3396.98] must be delivered -[3396.98 --> 3398.18] over to the hands of sinners, -[3398.30 --> 3398.86] be crucified, -[3399.36 --> 3400.90] and on the third day -[3400.90 --> 3402.84] be raised again. -[3406.14 --> 3407.16] Let me tell you, -[3408.16 --> 3410.20] if the resurrection -[3410.20 --> 3412.36] is true, -[3412.36 --> 3414.70] then all the rest -[3414.70 --> 3416.00] is true as well. -[3416.42 --> 3417.12] The resurrection -[3417.12 --> 3418.70] is the foundation -[3418.70 --> 3421.68] on which stands -[3421.68 --> 3423.46] all of our faith -[3423.46 --> 3424.32] and belief. -[3424.90 --> 3426.30] And that's true historically -[3426.30 --> 3428.00] and as far even -[3428.00 --> 3429.40] as salvation is possible. -[3429.70 --> 3430.64] That's what Paul says -[3430.64 --> 3432.00] in 1 Corinthians 15. -[3432.36 --> 3433.42] Christians have known -[3433.42 --> 3434.48] this to be true -[3434.48 --> 3435.64] since the very beginning. -[3436.04 --> 3436.82] The resurrection -[3436.82 --> 3438.64] is the foundation -[3438.64 --> 3440.92] on which all of our life -[3440.92 --> 3442.78] and faith stands. -[3444.38 --> 3445.74] And if it's not true, -[3446.74 --> 3448.40] none of this matters. -[3450.02 --> 3450.80] Let me tell you, -[3450.90 --> 3452.52] as Luke writes this story, -[3452.60 --> 3453.74] as the other gospel writers -[3453.74 --> 3454.74] write this story, -[3454.78 --> 3457.06] it has all of the hallmarks -[3457.06 --> 3458.54] of being true. -[3458.54 --> 3461.70] Now, we're not going to get -[3461.70 --> 3463.34] into all of this -[3463.34 --> 3465.08] and to every single argument -[3465.08 --> 3465.46] for this, -[3465.52 --> 3466.28] but I want to just -[3466.28 --> 3468.24] equip you with a couple here. -[3468.40 --> 3469.50] And so, again, -[3469.58 --> 3470.62] with your Bibles handy, -[3470.78 --> 3472.10] flip back to the beginning -[3472.10 --> 3472.70] of Luke. -[3472.80 --> 3473.70] Luke chapter 1. -[3475.70 --> 3476.66] Luke chapter 1. -[3476.72 --> 3478.14] The very opening words -[3478.14 --> 3478.88] of Luke. -[3479.00 --> 3479.18] Here, -[3479.30 --> 3481.04] hear what Luke says. -[3481.20 --> 3481.46] He says, -[3481.46 --> 3492.94] And hear this now. -[3492.94 --> 3515.32] Luke's intent -[3515.32 --> 3517.42] in writing this gospel message -[3517.42 --> 3519.24] is so that you may know -[3519.24 --> 3520.20] the certainty -[3520.20 --> 3521.30] of the things -[3521.30 --> 3522.04] which you have been taught. -[3522.26 --> 3523.18] And to do that, -[3523.26 --> 3524.40] he has investigated -[3524.40 --> 3525.44] like an expert. -[3526.56 --> 3526.92] And remember, -[3527.02 --> 3527.80] Luke's no fool. -[3528.30 --> 3529.14] Luke is a doctor. -[3529.50 --> 3530.78] He has official training -[3530.78 --> 3533.06] in the Greek scholastic system -[3533.06 --> 3533.92] of his day. -[3534.08 --> 3534.42] And so, -[3534.48 --> 3535.54] he knows how to do -[3535.54 --> 3536.76] rigorous investigation. -[3537.08 --> 3538.06] He knows how to do -[3538.06 --> 3539.68] historical investigation. -[3539.96 --> 3540.70] He knows how to -[3540.70 --> 3541.50] fact check -[3541.50 --> 3542.36] and counter check -[3542.36 --> 3543.30] and listen to witnesses -[3543.30 --> 3543.96] and seek them out. -[3543.98 --> 3544.16] In fact, -[3544.16 --> 3544.60] he says, -[3544.82 --> 3546.46] he does just that. -[3546.46 --> 3547.38] He sought out -[3547.38 --> 3548.30] the eyewitnesses -[3548.30 --> 3549.26] and servants of the word -[3549.26 --> 3550.20] and he carefully -[3550.20 --> 3552.10] investigated everything -[3552.10 --> 3552.88] from the beginning. -[3554.30 --> 3556.20] Luke is no slouch. -[3556.50 --> 3558.20] He's no propagandist. -[3559.10 --> 3560.32] He is an academic -[3560.32 --> 3562.04] and a professional -[3562.04 --> 3564.36] and he applies those skills -[3564.36 --> 3567.96] to his gospel writing experience. -[3570.94 --> 3572.40] And you can see that -[3572.40 --> 3575.66] even in chapter 24. -[3576.46 --> 3578.08] Now, -[3578.12 --> 3580.46] there's a whole branch -[3580.46 --> 3581.68] of conversation -[3581.68 --> 3582.30] that happens -[3582.30 --> 3583.82] around the resurrection story -[3583.82 --> 3585.28] that wants to say -[3585.28 --> 3586.16] that it is a myth, -[3586.34 --> 3586.92] that it is something -[3586.92 --> 3589.10] that people have made up, -[3589.18 --> 3589.92] that it is a story -[3589.92 --> 3590.64] that was told -[3590.64 --> 3592.16] in order to propagate -[3592.16 --> 3593.00] certain ideas -[3593.00 --> 3594.10] or certain forms of power -[3594.10 --> 3594.66] in the world -[3594.66 --> 3595.08] or the like, -[3595.40 --> 3596.02] whatever you do. -[3596.38 --> 3597.14] And yet, -[3597.24 --> 3598.10] counter to that, -[3598.16 --> 3599.28] there is a whole field -[3599.28 --> 3599.90] of study -[3599.90 --> 3601.20] that looks at -[3601.20 --> 3601.96] what it takes -[3601.96 --> 3602.92] for a myth -[3602.92 --> 3603.54] to develop -[3603.54 --> 3604.28] or what it takes -[3604.28 --> 3605.38] for a story -[3605.38 --> 3606.02] like this -[3606.02 --> 3607.04] to become -[3607.04 --> 3608.04] enculturated -[3608.04 --> 3609.60] if it is not true. -[3611.36 --> 3612.50] One of the qualifiers -[3612.50 --> 3613.36] to discern -[3613.36 --> 3614.54] between a true story -[3614.54 --> 3615.52] and a myth -[3615.52 --> 3617.84] are precise details -[3617.84 --> 3619.22] revealed in the telling -[3619.22 --> 3619.68] of the story. -[3619.68 --> 3620.48] So let me ask you -[3620.48 --> 3620.82] a question -[3620.82 --> 3622.06] just by way of comparison. -[3622.62 --> 3623.22] For those of you -[3623.22 --> 3624.02] sitting here this morning, -[3624.36 --> 3625.60] in the story -[3625.60 --> 3626.92] of Little Red Riding Hood, -[3627.54 --> 3628.70] she's going to visit Grandma. -[3628.70 --> 3630.26] how many miles -[3630.26 --> 3631.06] on the road -[3631.06 --> 3632.24] from her house -[3632.24 --> 3632.96] to Grandma's house? -[3636.32 --> 3637.24] Nobody knows -[3637.24 --> 3639.10] because it doesn't matter. -[3640.00 --> 3640.48] Right? -[3640.52 --> 3641.84] It's not a true story -[3641.84 --> 3642.98] and so however many miles -[3642.98 --> 3643.56] there are, -[3643.68 --> 3644.62] it doesn't matter. -[3644.98 --> 3645.40] And yet, -[3645.58 --> 3647.26] look at verse 10. -[3647.78 --> 3648.38] We'll start there. -[3648.58 --> 3649.76] Verse 10 from Luke 24. -[3650.10 --> 3651.18] It was Mary Magdalene, -[3651.34 --> 3652.26] Joanna and Mary, -[3652.36 --> 3653.06] the mother of James -[3653.06 --> 3653.56] and the others -[3653.56 --> 3654.18] who were with him. -[3654.52 --> 3654.60] Right? -[3655.02 --> 3655.98] Luke intentionally -[3655.98 --> 3657.44] writes names in there. -[3657.44 --> 3659.44] He gives specific details -[3659.44 --> 3660.10] that if it was just -[3660.10 --> 3660.70] a fake story, -[3660.76 --> 3661.22] it wouldn't matter. -[3661.28 --> 3662.34] But Luke is basically saying, -[3662.66 --> 3663.18] these are the people -[3663.18 --> 3663.74] who were there. -[3664.28 --> 3664.80] Talk to them. -[3664.90 --> 3666.06] Some of them are still alive. -[3666.82 --> 3667.70] Check this out. -[3668.38 --> 3668.52] Right? -[3668.60 --> 3669.32] Verse 13. -[3670.56 --> 3671.32] Now that same day, -[3671.38 --> 3671.78] two of them -[3671.78 --> 3672.64] were going to a village -[3672.64 --> 3673.44] called Emmaus -[3673.44 --> 3676.14] about seven miles -[3676.14 --> 3677.50] from Jerusalem. -[3678.72 --> 3679.82] Now why does that matter -[3679.82 --> 3681.64] if it's not true? -[3682.60 --> 3683.86] If Luke isn't saying, -[3684.38 --> 3686.38] this story is historically situated, -[3686.38 --> 3688.34] it actually happened. -[3690.60 --> 3692.00] C.S. Lewis has a quote. -[3692.10 --> 3693.80] Now if you don't know C.S. Lewis, -[3693.88 --> 3694.50] what you need to know -[3694.50 --> 3696.04] that C.S. Lewis is a Christian apologist, -[3696.24 --> 3697.88] but his primary vocation -[3697.88 --> 3699.32] was a fiction writer. -[3699.42 --> 3700.30] His primary love -[3700.30 --> 3702.30] was writing elaborate fantasy. -[3703.16 --> 3703.24] Right? -[3703.52 --> 3705.36] The Chronicles of Narnia series -[3705.36 --> 3706.62] is a great example of that. -[3707.02 --> 3707.76] There are others, -[3707.90 --> 3708.44] countless others -[3708.44 --> 3709.04] that he has written. -[3709.38 --> 3710.48] And C.S. Lewis has this quote. -[3710.52 --> 3711.48] I'm going to paraphrase it. -[3712.20 --> 3712.92] He says that, -[3712.92 --> 3714.50] when someone tells me -[3714.50 --> 3715.50] that these stories, -[3715.64 --> 3716.50] referring to the Gospels, -[3716.60 --> 3717.82] are myths and legends, -[3718.02 --> 3719.30] I like to ask them, -[3719.88 --> 3720.74] how many stories -[3720.74 --> 3721.54] of myths and legends -[3721.54 --> 3722.20] have you read? -[3722.56 --> 3723.20] And for how long -[3723.20 --> 3723.88] have you been reading -[3723.88 --> 3724.60] myths and legends -[3724.60 --> 3725.64] such that you can tell -[3725.64 --> 3727.14] when one is one -[3727.14 --> 3728.70] by the flavor that it has? -[3729.80 --> 3730.64] And then he goes on, -[3730.68 --> 3730.98] he says, -[3731.06 --> 3732.28] I've spent my whole life -[3732.28 --> 3733.18] in these stories -[3733.18 --> 3734.36] and writing these stories, -[3734.52 --> 3736.88] and this isn't one of them. -[3736.88 --> 3741.30] This account has all the hallmarks -[3741.30 --> 3744.32] of being true history. -[3747.08 --> 3747.82] And again, -[3748.60 --> 3750.46] just so we're clear, -[3751.02 --> 3752.18] there are some who will say, -[3752.28 --> 3753.60] well, it happened so far back -[3753.60 --> 3754.22] in the past, -[3754.30 --> 3755.04] we cannot know -[3755.04 --> 3757.20] that it is true or accurate. -[3757.58 --> 3758.24] And I want to say, -[3758.34 --> 3760.50] well, let's be fair in that. -[3760.94 --> 3761.80] And so here's an example. -[3762.76 --> 3762.98] Maybe, -[3763.38 --> 3764.32] I'm a student of history, -[3764.42 --> 3765.34] and so I like this example, -[3765.34 --> 3766.38] but maybe you've heard -[3766.38 --> 3768.08] of the Gaelic War, right? -[3768.12 --> 3768.78] The Gaelic War -[3768.78 --> 3769.66] is the expansion -[3769.66 --> 3771.38] of the Roman Empire -[3771.38 --> 3772.62] by none other -[3772.62 --> 3773.68] than Julius Caesar -[3773.68 --> 3775.74] into the region of Gaul, -[3775.80 --> 3776.56] which is now sort of -[3776.56 --> 3778.02] central and northern Europe. -[3778.30 --> 3779.46] Happened in 50 BC. -[3780.38 --> 3782.08] The primary source -[3782.08 --> 3783.10] that we have -[3783.10 --> 3784.62] for the Gaelic War -[3784.62 --> 3786.38] is the account -[3786.38 --> 3788.96] written by Julius Caesar himself -[3788.96 --> 3791.46] as a third-person narrative. -[3792.70 --> 3793.60] So let me make this clear. -[3794.06 --> 3795.26] Julius Caesar, right? -[3795.26 --> 3795.96] He writes the events -[3795.96 --> 3796.90] about himself, -[3797.04 --> 3798.00] about his expansion. -[3798.38 --> 3800.22] He does so as a story -[3800.22 --> 3801.72] in the third person, -[3802.18 --> 3803.64] and modern historians -[3803.64 --> 3805.74] for the last countless years -[3805.74 --> 3807.78] have treated it as true -[3807.78 --> 3808.66] and accurate. -[3809.82 --> 3810.66] And yet, -[3811.18 --> 3812.38] here's what we also know. -[3812.96 --> 3813.72] There are fewer -[3813.72 --> 3814.66] what are called -[3814.66 --> 3815.96] manuscript copies -[3815.96 --> 3818.08] of Caesar's account -[3818.08 --> 3819.50] than there are -[3819.50 --> 3820.42] of the New Testament, -[3820.42 --> 3821.54] and it's even further -[3821.54 --> 3822.62] back in history, -[3822.76 --> 3823.94] and yet for so many people, -[3823.94 --> 3824.64] for some of us, -[3824.92 --> 3827.32] it's more trusted. -[3828.06 --> 3828.92] But if we applied -[3828.92 --> 3830.40] the same sorts of rules -[3830.40 --> 3832.02] for authority and acceptance -[3832.02 --> 3833.36] or the same sort of -[3833.36 --> 3836.40] historiographical requirements -[3836.40 --> 3838.76] that we do to Julius Caesar, -[3839.12 --> 3839.74] what we would see -[3839.74 --> 3841.14] is that the Gospels of Jesus' -[3841.40 --> 3842.04] life, death, -[3842.12 --> 3843.12] and resurrection -[3843.12 --> 3845.50] should be just as widely accepted, -[3845.78 --> 3846.98] as accurate and true, -[3846.98 --> 3849.18] as the Gaelic wars are. -[3850.90 --> 3851.66] Like I said, -[3852.56 --> 3853.24] the resurrection -[3853.24 --> 3855.12] has all the hallmarks -[3855.12 --> 3857.38] of being a true story. -[3861.44 --> 3863.24] But here's what I -[3863.24 --> 3865.06] also realize. -[3866.96 --> 3868.28] The real reason -[3868.28 --> 3869.78] that people struggle -[3869.78 --> 3871.12] to believe the resurrection -[3871.12 --> 3874.58] probably isn't -[3874.58 --> 3875.84] actually intellectual. -[3877.08 --> 3878.14] It's probably not -[3878.14 --> 3879.88] an academic problem. -[3880.98 --> 3882.14] It's a heart problem. -[3883.32 --> 3885.30] When it comes right down to it, -[3885.66 --> 3887.08] people don't believe -[3887.08 --> 3887.64] in Jesus, -[3887.76 --> 3888.90] not because they struggle -[3888.90 --> 3889.80] with whether or not -[3889.80 --> 3890.36] he's real -[3890.36 --> 3891.54] or because of an intellectual -[3891.54 --> 3892.56] opposition for belief. -[3892.72 --> 3894.06] That may be the words we use. -[3894.14 --> 3894.66] That may be the way -[3894.66 --> 3895.72] we characterize it. -[3895.82 --> 3896.88] But the truth is, -[3897.00 --> 3898.46] if you are willing -[3898.46 --> 3899.42] and you are ready -[3899.42 --> 3900.50] to dig into -[3900.50 --> 3901.76] all of this -[3901.76 --> 3903.82] history and philosophy, -[3903.98 --> 3904.66] there are countless -[3904.66 --> 3906.06] philosophers and theologians -[3906.06 --> 3906.64] and historians -[3906.64 --> 3907.36] throughout history -[3907.36 --> 3908.72] who are smarter than me, -[3909.00 --> 3910.14] probably smarter than you, -[3910.42 --> 3911.04] who have made -[3911.04 --> 3912.18] cogent and compelling -[3912.18 --> 3912.92] arguments -[3912.92 --> 3914.28] and intellectual cases -[3914.28 --> 3914.90] for Jesus -[3914.90 --> 3915.78] and for God -[3915.78 --> 3916.54] and for the truth -[3916.54 --> 3917.42] of the Gospels -[3917.42 --> 3918.24] and the reliability -[3918.24 --> 3919.34] of the Bible. -[3919.58 --> 3920.52] The real problem, -[3920.62 --> 3920.84] you see, -[3920.92 --> 3921.90] isn't intellectual. -[3922.18 --> 3922.98] The real problem -[3922.98 --> 3924.08] is existential -[3924.08 --> 3925.20] and spiritual. -[3925.36 --> 3926.14] The real problem -[3926.14 --> 3926.76] for some of us -[3926.76 --> 3927.56] is that people -[3927.56 --> 3929.28] have disappointed us. -[3930.40 --> 3931.64] And so it's made belief -[3931.64 --> 3932.80] in this resurrection -[3932.80 --> 3935.22] if not impossible -[3935.22 --> 3936.30] then hard. -[3938.38 --> 3938.82] Because you see, -[3938.90 --> 3940.82] Jesus changed everything -[3940.82 --> 3942.28] and now everything -[3942.28 --> 3944.18] about you changes. -[3944.86 --> 3945.78] And for some of us, -[3945.96 --> 3947.46] that's the scary part. -[3947.64 --> 3949.04] That's the terrifying thing. -[3949.26 --> 3949.42] Right? -[3949.50 --> 3950.66] If in his life -[3950.66 --> 3951.10] and death -[3951.10 --> 3951.74] and resurrection, -[3951.98 --> 3953.18] Jesus did everything -[3953.18 --> 3953.84] for you -[3953.84 --> 3954.80] and there's nothing -[3954.80 --> 3956.14] that you need to do -[3956.14 --> 3957.22] to add to it, -[3957.22 --> 3957.54] there's nothing -[3957.54 --> 3958.44] that you can do -[3958.44 --> 3959.44] to add to it -[3959.44 --> 3960.20] or to earn it -[3960.20 --> 3960.90] if it is all -[3960.90 --> 3962.06] by grace through faith -[3962.06 --> 3963.24] and is not of yourselves, -[3963.34 --> 3964.46] it is the gift of God -[3964.46 --> 3965.12] so that no man -[3965.12 --> 3965.92] or woman or child -[3965.92 --> 3966.42] can boast. -[3966.62 --> 3967.94] If all of that is true -[3967.94 --> 3969.18] and I believe it is, -[3969.42 --> 3970.12] that means -[3970.12 --> 3971.38] that as a result -[3971.38 --> 3971.72] of that, -[3971.82 --> 3972.58] there is nothing -[3972.58 --> 3973.90] in this life -[3973.90 --> 3974.56] that Jesus -[3974.56 --> 3975.62] can't ask -[3975.62 --> 3976.46] of you -[3976.46 --> 3978.08] once he's given you -[3978.08 --> 3978.80] that grace and gift. -[3980.08 --> 3981.34] And for some of us, -[3981.92 --> 3983.00] that's too much. -[3983.00 --> 3985.30] that's too scary -[3985.30 --> 3986.72] because we like -[3986.72 --> 3988.00] our little lives -[3988.00 --> 3989.04] on our own, -[3989.16 --> 3990.40] in our own control. -[3990.82 --> 3992.18] We've become complacent -[3992.18 --> 3993.86] in these bodies of death -[3993.86 --> 3994.70] so much so -[3994.70 --> 3995.74] that the possibility -[3995.74 --> 3996.92] of real life, -[3997.06 --> 3997.98] of knowing the creator -[3997.98 --> 3998.52] of the world -[3998.52 --> 3999.22] and being known -[3999.22 --> 4000.00] by the creator -[4000.00 --> 4000.58] of the world -[4000.58 --> 4002.12] is a scary thing. -[4003.60 --> 4004.80] True life -[4004.80 --> 4005.98] is scary -[4005.98 --> 4008.10] for those of us -[4008.10 --> 4009.54] stuck in death. -[4009.54 --> 4012.86] being -[4012.86 --> 4014.32] and basking -[4014.32 --> 4015.60] in the light -[4015.60 --> 4017.02] of our glorious God -[4017.02 --> 4018.80] is terrifying -[4018.80 --> 4020.88] for those of us -[4020.88 --> 4021.88] who love the dark. -[4023.78 --> 4025.06] The Bible says -[4025.06 --> 4028.34] that if anyone -[4028.34 --> 4030.04] is in Christ, -[4030.98 --> 4032.14] the new creation -[4032.14 --> 4033.46] has come. -[4033.60 --> 4034.90] The old is gone -[4034.90 --> 4035.94] and the new -[4035.94 --> 4037.48] is here. -[4037.48 --> 4042.44] a friend -[4042.44 --> 4045.10] who's back -[4045.10 --> 4046.78] east -[4046.78 --> 4047.70] so you don't know -[4047.70 --> 4048.42] who I'm talking about -[4048.42 --> 4049.44] but I'm going to call him Mike. -[4050.52 --> 4051.32] He is -[4051.32 --> 4052.38] what many people -[4052.38 --> 4052.74] would call -[4052.74 --> 4054.46] a de-churched person. -[4054.90 --> 4055.40] What that means -[4055.40 --> 4056.18] is he grew up -[4056.18 --> 4056.68] in the church -[4056.68 --> 4057.34] and then based on -[4057.34 --> 4058.20] a number of circumstances -[4058.20 --> 4059.02] and life realities -[4059.02 --> 4060.14] he left -[4060.14 --> 4061.62] and now wants -[4061.62 --> 4062.32] nothing -[4062.32 --> 4063.42] to do with that. -[4063.50 --> 4064.38] The primary reason -[4064.38 --> 4064.84] that Mike -[4064.84 --> 4065.74] left -[4065.74 --> 4067.12] church -[4067.12 --> 4067.98] and the Christian -[4067.98 --> 4068.42] faith -[4068.42 --> 4069.46] is because -[4069.46 --> 4070.08] he looked at -[4070.08 --> 4070.50] Christians -[4070.50 --> 4071.72] and he didn't see -[4071.72 --> 4072.30] anything different -[4072.30 --> 4072.74] about them. -[4073.88 --> 4074.70] They were exactly -[4074.70 --> 4075.24] the same -[4075.24 --> 4075.90] as every other -[4075.90 --> 4077.10] person in his life. -[4077.22 --> 4077.84] Nothing really -[4077.84 --> 4078.28] changed -[4078.28 --> 4079.30] and in fact -[4079.30 --> 4080.18] Mike would tell you -[4080.18 --> 4081.02] that it's actually -[4081.02 --> 4081.64] worse than that -[4081.64 --> 4082.30] because he looked -[4082.30 --> 4083.14] at those so-called -[4083.14 --> 4083.58] Christians -[4083.58 --> 4084.90] and they were worse -[4084.90 --> 4085.64] than the other -[4085.64 --> 4086.66] people in his life. -[4087.68 --> 4088.22] They were mean -[4088.22 --> 4089.34] and judgmental -[4089.34 --> 4090.82] and vindictive -[4090.82 --> 4091.74] and in Mike's story -[4091.74 --> 4092.74] even abusive. -[4092.74 --> 4095.92] So no wonder -[4095.92 --> 4098.10] people don't believe. -[4099.28 --> 4099.92] It's not about -[4099.92 --> 4101.16] an intellectual thing -[4101.16 --> 4103.60] it's about a personal thing. -[4104.72 --> 4105.52] You've heard me -[4105.52 --> 4106.66] quote in the past -[4106.66 --> 4108.12] from Jekyll Crow -[4108.12 --> 4109.00] who wrote a book -[4109.00 --> 4109.32] called -[4109.32 --> 4110.32] This Changes Everything -[4110.32 --> 4110.98] she wrote this -[4110.98 --> 4111.82] when she was 18 -[4111.82 --> 4113.88] and she says -[4113.88 --> 4114.70] that Jesus -[4114.70 --> 4115.54] makes people -[4115.54 --> 4117.34] 100% new. -[4117.48 --> 4117.92] He takes us -[4117.92 --> 4118.72] spiritually dead -[4118.72 --> 4119.30] and makes us -[4119.30 --> 4119.84] thrillingly, -[4119.96 --> 4120.34] beautifully, -[4120.60 --> 4122.04] abundantly alive. -[4122.04 --> 4123.04] Jesus changes -[4123.04 --> 4123.90] everything -[4123.90 --> 4125.62] with his resurrection -[4125.62 --> 4126.78] and now -[4126.78 --> 4129.04] everything about you -[4129.04 --> 4130.28] changes. -[4131.56 --> 4132.38] The Bible says -[4132.38 --> 4133.50] you are a new creation. -[4134.56 --> 4134.98] The Bible says -[4134.98 --> 4135.72] that we have victory -[4135.72 --> 4136.98] over sin and death -[4136.98 --> 4137.76] because Jesus -[4137.76 --> 4139.98] has won the victory. -[4140.52 --> 4141.02] The Bible says -[4141.02 --> 4141.64] that we have -[4141.64 --> 4142.90] a new identity -[4142.90 --> 4144.36] as lavishly loved -[4144.36 --> 4145.84] children of the Father -[4145.84 --> 4146.48] because we are -[4146.48 --> 4147.54] heirs of God -[4147.54 --> 4148.46] and co-heirs -[4148.46 --> 4149.52] with Christ. -[4149.74 --> 4151.46] This is who you are -[4151.46 --> 4153.22] because of the resurrection. -[4157.42 --> 4158.62] Jesus even changes -[4158.62 --> 4159.42] the way we read -[4159.42 --> 4161.04] and understand the Bible. -[4161.76 --> 4163.14] This is our second point. -[4163.24 --> 4164.26] This is the witness -[4164.26 --> 4165.46] of the resurrection -[4165.46 --> 4166.14] and the witness -[4166.14 --> 4167.70] to the resurrection. -[4169.38 --> 4170.04] Now the disciples -[4170.04 --> 4171.68] struggle to understand -[4171.68 --> 4172.84] but Jesus -[4172.84 --> 4173.90] had been telling them -[4173.90 --> 4174.70] all along -[4174.70 --> 4175.50] that this is what -[4175.50 --> 4175.94] would happen. -[4177.16 --> 4177.32] Right? -[4177.66 --> 4178.46] Look again -[4178.46 --> 4179.46] at this text. -[4179.46 --> 4179.98] Text. -[4180.12 --> 4180.64] Verse 6. -[4181.08 --> 4181.60] The angels say -[4181.60 --> 4182.20] he is not here -[4182.20 --> 4182.86] he has risen -[4182.86 --> 4185.24] remember how he told you -[4185.24 --> 4186.38] while he was still -[4186.38 --> 4187.38] with you in Galilee. -[4187.96 --> 4188.58] The son of man -[4188.58 --> 4189.34] must be delivered -[4189.34 --> 4191.12] over to the hands -[4191.12 --> 4191.48] of sinners -[4191.48 --> 4192.06] be crucified -[4192.06 --> 4193.16] and on the third day -[4193.16 --> 4194.44] be raised again. -[4195.00 --> 4195.72] Verse 25. -[4195.84 --> 4197.12] He said to the two men -[4197.12 --> 4198.02] on the road to Emmaus -[4198.02 --> 4198.88] how foolish you are -[4198.88 --> 4199.84] and how slow to believe -[4199.84 --> 4200.90] all that the prophets -[4200.90 --> 4201.38] have spoken -[4201.38 --> 4202.50] did not the Messiah -[4202.50 --> 4203.32] have to suffer -[4203.32 --> 4203.88] these things -[4203.88 --> 4205.40] and then enter his glory -[4205.40 --> 4205.78] again. -[4206.12 --> 4207.16] Jesus has been explaining -[4207.16 --> 4208.52] this all along. -[4209.24 --> 4209.92] Verse 44. -[4210.10 --> 4210.40] He says -[4210.40 --> 4211.90] this is what I told you -[4211.90 --> 4212.86] while I was still -[4212.86 --> 4213.30] with you -[4213.30 --> 4214.44] everything must be -[4214.44 --> 4214.86] fulfilled -[4214.86 --> 4215.52] that is written -[4215.52 --> 4216.22] about me -[4216.22 --> 4217.44] in the law of Moses -[4217.44 --> 4218.24] the prophets -[4218.24 --> 4219.22] and the Psalms. -[4219.68 --> 4219.76] Right? -[4219.82 --> 4220.68] The whole Bible -[4220.68 --> 4221.72] has been pointing -[4221.72 --> 4222.68] to this day -[4222.68 --> 4223.76] to this moment -[4223.76 --> 4225.14] to this new creation -[4225.14 --> 4225.92] reality -[4225.92 --> 4226.88] from the very beginning -[4226.88 --> 4227.90] from the first rebellion -[4227.90 --> 4228.88] of our first parents -[4228.88 --> 4229.44] Adam and Eve -[4229.44 --> 4229.96] in the garden -[4229.96 --> 4231.08] God comes down -[4231.08 --> 4232.08] and he says to them -[4232.08 --> 4233.22] that he will send -[4233.22 --> 4234.36] a son who will crush -[4234.36 --> 4235.58] the head of the serpent -[4235.58 --> 4236.88] in Genesis 3.15. -[4236.88 --> 4237.98] Psalm 16 -[4237.98 --> 4239.00] we get the resounding -[4239.00 --> 4239.68] chorus that -[4239.68 --> 4241.22] God you will not -[4241.22 --> 4242.54] let your holy ones -[4242.54 --> 4243.62] see decay -[4243.62 --> 4245.42] this is the victory -[4245.42 --> 4246.00] of God -[4246.00 --> 4247.24] that the whole earth -[4247.24 --> 4248.44] has been waiting for -[4248.44 --> 4249.70] and longing for -[4249.70 --> 4252.22] but they couldn't -[4252.22 --> 4252.66] see it -[4252.66 --> 4254.80] and we can forgive -[4254.80 --> 4255.30] them for that -[4255.30 --> 4255.48] right? -[4255.54 --> 4256.02] Because it is -[4256.02 --> 4256.74] extraordinary -[4256.74 --> 4258.98] but notice -[4258.98 --> 4260.28] in each case -[4260.28 --> 4260.80] that they -[4260.80 --> 4262.06] couldn't see it -[4262.06 --> 4262.76] notice what -[4262.76 --> 4264.38] Jesus does -[4264.38 --> 4267.00] verse 30 -[4267.00 --> 4269.58] when he was -[4269.58 --> 4270.14] at the table -[4270.14 --> 4270.72] with them -[4270.72 --> 4272.34] he took bread -[4272.34 --> 4273.60] gave thanks -[4273.60 --> 4274.76] and broke it -[4274.76 --> 4275.54] and began -[4275.54 --> 4277.46] give it to them -[4277.46 --> 4278.84] their eyes -[4278.84 --> 4279.50] were open -[4279.50 --> 4281.70] they recognized him -[4281.70 --> 4283.76] again in verse 35 -[4283.76 --> 4285.06] the two told -[4285.06 --> 4285.50] what happened -[4285.50 --> 4285.84] on the way -[4285.84 --> 4286.52] and how Jesus -[4286.52 --> 4287.28] was recognized -[4287.28 --> 4287.86] by them -[4287.86 --> 4288.66] when he broke -[4288.66 --> 4289.72] the bread -[4289.72 --> 4291.72] verse 41 -[4291.72 --> 4292.96] and while we still -[4292.96 --> 4293.64] did not believe -[4293.64 --> 4294.82] it was because of -[4294.82 --> 4295.70] joy and amazement -[4295.70 --> 4296.30] he asked them -[4296.30 --> 4296.90] do you have -[4296.90 --> 4297.82] anything to eat -[4297.82 --> 4298.66] they gave him -[4298.66 --> 4299.16] a piece of -[4299.16 --> 4299.68] boiled fish -[4299.68 --> 4300.46] and he took it -[4300.46 --> 4301.36] and he ate it -[4301.36 --> 4302.34] in their presence -[4302.34 --> 4303.58] when the disciples -[4303.58 --> 4304.82] couldn't see -[4304.82 --> 4306.66] what the scriptures -[4306.66 --> 4307.70] had told them -[4307.70 --> 4308.40] would happen -[4308.40 --> 4309.22] all along -[4309.22 --> 4309.88] what Jesus -[4309.88 --> 4310.90] had told them -[4310.90 --> 4311.34] would happen -[4311.34 --> 4312.36] over and over again -[4312.36 --> 4313.08] when the disciples -[4313.08 --> 4313.82] couldn't see it -[4313.82 --> 4314.54] when they couldn't -[4314.54 --> 4315.24] believe it -[4315.24 --> 4316.38] it is confirmed -[4316.38 --> 4316.84] for them -[4316.84 --> 4318.02] it is made real -[4318.02 --> 4318.62] for them -[4318.62 --> 4320.20] in the meal -[4320.20 --> 4323.14] and this is still true -[4323.14 --> 4324.98] whenever we eat -[4324.98 --> 4325.60] this bread -[4325.60 --> 4327.48] and drink this cup -[4327.48 --> 4328.70] we proclaim -[4328.70 --> 4329.68] the Lord's death -[4329.68 --> 4330.98] and resurrection -[4330.98 --> 4332.82] until he comes again -[4332.82 --> 4335.60] the truth -[4335.60 --> 4336.78] is -[4336.78 --> 4338.14] that the death -[4338.14 --> 4338.82] of Jesus -[4338.82 --> 4340.28] is only meaningful -[4340.28 --> 4341.34] only saving -[4341.34 --> 4342.24] only atoning -[4342.24 --> 4343.24] only propitiating -[4344.02 --> 4345.04] only efficacious -[4345.04 --> 4345.88] unto salvation -[4345.88 --> 4346.98] if the resurrection -[4346.98 --> 4347.74] happens -[4347.74 --> 4348.96] and at the table -[4348.96 --> 4350.64] we meet -[4350.64 --> 4351.30] the risen Lord -[4351.30 --> 4354.42] and in this season -[4354.42 --> 4357.08] we can't come -[4357.08 --> 4357.60] to this table -[4357.60 --> 4357.98] together -[4357.98 --> 4359.26] in the way -[4359.26 --> 4359.86] that we would like -[4359.86 --> 4361.90] so you have to -[4361.90 --> 4363.04] see this bread -[4363.04 --> 4364.00] and know -[4364.00 --> 4365.78] you have to -[4365.78 --> 4366.44] share bread -[4366.44 --> 4367.28] with your brothers -[4367.28 --> 4367.88] and sisters -[4367.88 --> 4369.02] and know -[4369.02 --> 4370.18] the table -[4370.18 --> 4370.96] we meet -[4370.96 --> 4372.16] the risen Lord -[4372.16 --> 4372.94] that the tomb -[4372.94 --> 4373.92] is -[4373.92 --> 4375.02] empty -[4375.02 --> 4376.30] Jesus -[4376.30 --> 4376.60] Jesus was -[4376.60 --> 4377.08] recognized -[4377.08 --> 4377.76] by them -[4377.76 --> 4378.32] when he -[4378.32 --> 4378.96] broke -[4378.96 --> 4379.64] the bread -[4379.64 --> 4380.26] and every time -[4380.26 --> 4381.06] we break -[4381.06 --> 4381.56] bread -[4381.56 --> 4382.06] together -[4382.06 --> 4382.94] we recognize -[4382.94 --> 4383.58] Jesus -[4383.58 --> 4384.46] because he is -[4384.46 --> 4384.80] real -[4384.80 --> 4385.40] and he is -[4385.40 --> 4386.34] really present -[4386.34 --> 4388.06] in this meal -[4388.06 --> 4389.02] and in our -[4389.02 --> 4389.60] fellowship -[4389.60 --> 4390.18] together -[4390.18 --> 4391.20] by the Holy Spirit -[4391.20 --> 4391.98] Christ is -[4391.98 --> 4393.06] really present -[4393.06 --> 4393.70] in the bread -[4393.70 --> 4394.64] and in the wine -[4394.64 --> 4395.24] and when we -[4395.24 --> 4396.42] recognize him -[4396.42 --> 4397.40] our faith -[4397.40 --> 4398.54] is -[4398.54 --> 4399.52] nourished -[4399.52 --> 4401.30] the meal -[4401.30 --> 4402.68] is a witness -[4402.68 --> 4404.08] to the resurrection -[4404.08 --> 4406.56] but so too -[4406.56 --> 4408.04] is your -[4408.04 --> 4408.84] transformed -[4408.84 --> 4409.98] life -[4409.98 --> 4411.48] you -[4411.48 --> 4412.86] and how you live -[4412.86 --> 4413.46] you -[4413.46 --> 4414.26] and how you -[4414.26 --> 4414.60] forgive -[4414.60 --> 4415.38] you -[4415.38 --> 4416.18] and how you -[4416.18 --> 4416.80] care for the -[4416.80 --> 4417.38] old ladies -[4417.38 --> 4418.18] at work -[4418.18 --> 4419.04] who like to -[4419.04 --> 4419.30] bicker -[4419.30 --> 4419.98] when no one -[4419.98 --> 4420.38] is looking -[4420.38 --> 4421.02] you -[4421.02 --> 4421.78] and how you -[4421.78 --> 4422.42] seek out -[4422.42 --> 4423.06] the ignored -[4423.06 --> 4424.00] kid at school -[4424.00 --> 4425.02] who will still -[4425.02 --> 4425.76] complain even -[4425.76 --> 4426.06] when you -[4426.06 --> 4426.52] come over -[4426.52 --> 4427.04] you -[4427.04 --> 4427.90] are a witness -[4427.90 --> 4428.68] to the truth -[4428.68 --> 4429.64] of the resurrection -[4429.64 --> 4430.78] you live -[4430.78 --> 4431.50] life -[4431.50 --> 4432.50] transformed -[4432.50 --> 4433.74] as a witness -[4433.74 --> 4434.66] to who -[4434.66 --> 4435.26] Jesus -[4435.26 --> 4436.06] is -[4436.06 --> 4437.98] you -[4437.98 --> 4439.42] are witnesses -[4439.42 --> 4440.76] to these things -[4440.76 --> 4441.84] Jesus says -[4441.84 --> 4443.00] in verse 48 -[4443.00 --> 4446.30] you -[4446.30 --> 4448.22] are a witness -[4448.22 --> 4450.04] of the resurrection -[4450.04 --> 4451.08] you -[4451.08 --> 4452.08] prove -[4452.08 --> 4452.56] this -[4452.56 --> 4453.26] is -[4453.26 --> 4454.06] real -[4454.06 --> 4457.24] finally -[4457.24 --> 4457.68] because -[4457.68 --> 4458.38] Jesus -[4458.38 --> 4458.88] changed -[4458.88 --> 4459.46] everything -[4459.46 --> 4459.86] everything -[4459.86 --> 4460.36] about -[4460.36 --> 4460.74] you -[4460.74 --> 4461.42] changes -[4461.42 --> 4461.96] and that -[4461.96 --> 4462.30] means -[4462.30 --> 4462.58] you -[4462.58 --> 4463.02] have -[4463.02 --> 4463.80] a mission -[4463.80 --> 4465.34] you -[4465.34 --> 4466.10] are a new -[4466.10 --> 4466.66] creation -[4466.66 --> 4467.58] with a new -[4467.58 --> 4468.12] creation -[4468.12 --> 4468.84] life -[4468.84 --> 4469.34] you are -[4469.34 --> 4470.12] a living -[4470.12 --> 4470.92] resurrection -[4470.92 --> 4471.68] life -[4471.68 --> 4472.74] right now -[4472.74 --> 4473.76] raised -[4473.76 --> 4474.52] from the -[4474.52 --> 4474.86] dead -[4474.86 --> 4475.18] in -[4475.18 --> 4476.08] being dead -[4476.08 --> 4476.82] in trespasses -[4476.82 --> 4477.32] and sins -[4477.32 --> 4477.70] you -[4477.70 --> 4478.14] know -[4478.14 --> 4478.78] life -[4478.78 --> 4479.50] from -[4479.50 --> 4479.94] Jesus -[4479.94 --> 4480.42] and now -[4480.42 --> 4480.90] for -[4480.90 --> 4481.66] Jesus -[4481.66 --> 4482.78] resurrection -[4482.78 --> 4483.58] life -[4483.58 --> 4484.00] is a -[4484.00 --> 4484.40] is a -[4484.40 --> 4484.84] scent -[4484.84 --> 4485.16] life -[4485.16 --> 4485.52] that is -[4485.52 --> 4486.18] fueled -[4486.18 --> 4487.00] by the -[4487.00 --> 4487.44] witness -[4487.44 --> 4488.04] of word -[4488.04 --> 4488.70] and sacrament -[4488.70 --> 4489.16] to a -[4489.16 --> 4489.48] world -[4489.48 --> 4489.86] that is -[4489.86 --> 4490.60] mired -[4490.60 --> 4491.20] in death -[4491.20 --> 4491.98] and darkness -[4491.98 --> 4493.74] resurrection -[4493.74 --> 4494.34] life -[4494.34 --> 4494.78] is a -[4494.78 --> 4495.08] scent -[4495.08 --> 4495.52] life -[4495.52 --> 4496.06] fueled -[4496.06 --> 4496.42] by the -[4496.42 --> 4496.64] witness -[4496.64 --> 4496.94] of the -[4496.94 --> 4497.28] word -[4497.28 --> 4498.48] sacrament -[4498.48 --> 4499.00] to a -[4499.00 --> 4499.30] world -[4499.30 --> 4499.92] of death -[4499.92 --> 4501.40] darkness -[4501.40 --> 4502.40] but -[4502.40 --> 4504.20] we do -[4504.20 --> 4505.06] not -[4505.06 --> 4505.94] go -[4505.94 --> 4507.06] home -[4507.06 --> 4509.36] Jesus -[4509.36 --> 4509.64] says -[4509.64 --> 4509.96] stay -[4509.96 --> 4510.40] in the -[4510.40 --> 4510.62] city -[4510.62 --> 4510.92] until -[4510.92 --> 4511.10] you -[4511.10 --> 4511.28] have -[4511.28 --> 4511.44] been -[4511.44 --> 4511.88] clothed -[4511.88 --> 4512.02] with -[4512.02 --> 4512.38] power -[4512.38 --> 4512.70] from -[4512.70 --> 4512.90] on -[4512.90 --> 4513.22] high -[4513.22 --> 4513.94] you -[4513.94 --> 4514.38] go -[4514.38 --> 4515.18] with -[4515.18 --> 4515.70] the -[4515.70 --> 4516.34] power -[4516.34 --> 4516.82] from -[4516.82 --> 4517.10] on -[4517.10 --> 4517.40] high -[4517.40 --> 4517.82] you -[4517.82 --> 4518.16] go -[4518.16 --> 4518.50] with -[4518.50 --> 4518.72] the -[4518.72 --> 4518.98] Holy -[4518.98 --> 4519.40] Spirit -[4519.40 --> 4519.80] and so -[4519.80 --> 4520.26] that -[4520.26 --> 4520.64] that -[4520.64 --> 4521.54] that -[4521.54 --> 4522.18] concluding -[4522.18 --> 4522.68] line -[4522.68 --> 4522.96] there -[4522.96 --> 4523.38] resurrection -[4523.38 --> 4523.88] life -[4523.88 --> 4524.24] is a -[4524.24 --> 4524.54] scent -[4524.54 --> 4524.86] life -[4524.86 --> 4525.22] fueled -[4525.22 --> 4525.56] by the -[4525.56 --> 4525.82] witness -[4525.82 --> 4526.00] of -[4526.00 --> 4526.12] the -[4526.12 --> 4526.38] word -[4526.38 --> 4526.60] and -[4526.60 --> 4527.02] sacrament -[4527.02 --> 4527.68] empowered -[4527.68 --> 4528.50] by the -[4528.50 --> 4528.76] Holy -[4528.76 --> 4529.18] Spirit -[4529.18 --> 4530.34] to a -[4530.34 --> 4530.64] world -[4530.64 --> 4531.06] mired -[4531.06 --> 4531.58] in death -[4531.58 --> 4532.28] and -[4532.28 --> 4532.68] darkness -[4532.68 --> 4533.18] we do -[4533.18 --> 4533.64] not go -[4533.64 --> 4533.98] alone -[4533.98 --> 4534.54] we go -[4534.54 --> 4534.98] with -[4534.98 --> 4535.86] Jesus -[4535.86 --> 4536.48] in -[4536.48 --> 4537.28] spirit -[4537.28 --> 4537.88] we do -[4537.88 --> 4538.28] not go -[4538.28 --> 4538.68] alone -[4538.68 --> 4539.40] we go -[4539.40 --> 4540.10] together -[4540.10 --> 4542.36] we go -[4542.36 --> 4542.78] together -[4542.78 --> 4544.42] in -[4544.42 --> 4545.04] community -[4545.04 --> 4546.46] capital -[4546.46 --> 4547.02] c -[4547.02 --> 4547.92] community -[4547.92 --> 4548.48] church -[4548.48 --> 4549.50] community -[4549.50 --> 4550.26] Emmanuel -[4550.26 --> 4550.82] church -[4550.82 --> 4551.66] community -[4551.66 --> 4552.38] there are -[4552.38 --> 4552.84] a bunch -[4552.84 --> 4553.38] of us -[4553.38 --> 4553.64] who -[4553.64 --> 4554.30] believe -[4554.30 --> 4556.12] therefore -[4556.12 --> 4556.96] since we -[4556.96 --> 4557.64] are surrounded -[4557.64 --> 4558.64] by such -[4558.64 --> 4559.02] a great -[4559.02 --> 4559.56] cloud of -[4559.56 --> 4559.86] witnesses -[4559.86 --> 4560.28] let us -[4560.28 --> 4560.80] run with -[4560.80 --> 4561.44] perseverance -[4561.44 --> 4562.44] the race -[4562.44 --> 4562.84] marked -[4562.84 --> 4563.48] out for -[4563.48 --> 4563.84] us -[4563.84 --> 4565.18] this -[4565.18 --> 4565.44] journey -[4565.44 --> 4565.60] of -[4565.60 --> 4565.82] life -[4565.82 --> 4565.98] and -[4565.98 --> 4566.20] faith -[4566.20 --> 4566.42] is -[4566.42 --> 4566.56] a -[4566.56 --> 4566.84] team -[4566.84 --> 4567.26] race -[4567.26 --> 4568.20] right -[4568.20 --> 4568.32] there -[4568.32 --> 4568.44] are -[4568.44 --> 4568.90] people -[4568.90 --> 4569.54] running -[4569.54 --> 4570.24] alongside -[4570.24 --> 4570.56] of -[4570.56 --> 4570.66] us -[4570.66 --> 4570.80] there -[4570.80 --> 4570.94] are -[4570.94 --> 4571.24] people -[4571.24 --> 4571.66] cheering -[4571.66 --> 4571.92] us -[4571.92 --> 4572.22] on -[4572.22 --> 4572.64] we -[4572.64 --> 4572.94] go -[4572.94 --> 4573.42] together -[4573.42 --> 4573.88] you -[4573.88 --> 4574.10] do -[4574.10 --> 4574.40] not -[4574.40 --> 4574.76] go -[4574.76 --> 4575.22] alone -[4575.22 --> 4575.48] you -[4575.48 --> 4575.66] are -[4575.66 --> 4576.10] never -[4576.10 --> 4577.08] alone -[4577.08 --> 4577.54] no matter -[4577.54 --> 4577.90] how -[4577.90 --> 4578.40] alone -[4578.40 --> 4578.66] you -[4578.66 --> 4578.90] might -[4578.90 --> 4579.18] feel -[4579.18 --> 4579.46] no matter -[4579.46 --> 4579.66] how -[4579.66 --> 4579.96] alone -[4579.96 --> 4580.12] it -[4580.12 --> 4580.28] might -[4580.28 --> 4580.52] look -[4580.52 --> 4580.66] as -[4580.66 --> 4580.78] you -[4580.78 --> 4580.92] look -[4580.92 --> 4581.04] to -[4581.04 --> 4581.16] your -[4581.16 --> 4581.40] left -[4581.40 --> 4581.54] and -[4581.54 --> 4581.62] to -[4581.62 --> 4581.74] your -[4581.74 --> 4581.90] right -[4581.90 --> 4582.02] and -[4582.02 --> 4582.12] you -[4582.12 --> 4582.32] see -[4582.32 --> 4582.52] no -[4582.52 --> 4582.68] one -[4582.68 --> 4582.86] there -[4582.86 --> 4583.28] you -[4583.28 --> 4583.52] are -[4583.52 --> 4583.90] not -[4583.90 --> 4584.46] alone -[4584.46 --> 4588.70] who -[4588.70 --> 4588.84] do -[4588.84 --> 4588.98] you -[4588.98 --> 4589.18] say -[4589.18 --> 4589.36] that -[4589.36 --> 4589.52] I -[4589.52 --> 4589.76] am -[4589.76 --> 4591.74] the -[4591.74 --> 4591.92] most -[4591.92 --> 4592.28] important -[4592.28 --> 4592.82] question -[4592.82 --> 4593.46] ever -[4593.46 --> 4593.80] asked -[4593.80 --> 4595.54] on -[4595.54 --> 4595.76] this -[4595.76 --> 4596.06] Easter -[4596.06 --> 4596.42] Sunday -[4596.42 --> 4597.50] we -[4597.50 --> 4597.90] say -[4597.90 --> 4598.54] with -[4598.54 --> 4599.52] confidence -[4599.52 --> 4600.16] with -[4600.16 --> 4601.00] certainty -[4601.00 --> 4601.72] that -[4601.72 --> 4602.14] Jesus -[4602.14 --> 4602.76] is -[4602.76 --> 4603.08] the -[4603.08 --> 4603.60] victory -[4603.60 --> 4604.48] of -[4604.48 --> 4605.40] God -[4605.40 --> 4607.28] Jesus -[4607.28 --> 4607.92] is -[4607.92 --> 4608.16] the -[4608.16 --> 4608.70] resurrection -[4608.70 --> 4609.72] and -[4609.72 --> 4609.86] the -[4609.86 --> 4610.26] life -[4610.26 --> 4611.04] he -[4611.04 --> 4611.34] is -[4611.34 --> 4611.60] not -[4611.60 --> 4611.94] here -[4611.94 --> 4612.42] he -[4612.42 --> 4613.02] has -[4613.02 --> 4613.68] risen -[4613.68 --> 4614.12] Jesus -[4614.12 --> 4614.74] changes -[4614.74 --> 4615.52] everything -[4615.52 --> 4616.36] because -[4616.36 --> 4616.84] Jesus -[4616.84 --> 4618.08] changed -[4618.08 --> 4619.30] everything -[4619.30 --> 4620.66] amen -[4620.66 --> 4622.56] let's -[4622.56 --> 4622.72] pray -[4622.72 --> 4623.12] together -[4623.12 --> 4629.90] Lord -[4629.90 --> 4630.28] Jesus -[4630.28 --> 4631.98] you -[4631.98 --> 4632.22] have -[4632.22 --> 4632.80] changed -[4632.80 --> 4633.72] everything -[4633.72 --> 4634.98] and so -[4634.98 --> 4635.42] change -[4635.42 --> 4635.80] us -[4635.80 --> 4638.16] you -[4638.16 --> 4638.40] have -[4638.40 --> 4638.90] changed -[4638.90 --> 4639.58] everything -[4639.58 --> 4640.04] so -[4640.04 --> 4640.90] transform -[4640.90 --> 4641.30] our -[4641.30 --> 4642.20] lives -[4642.20 --> 4642.46] you -[4642.46 --> 4642.72] have -[4642.72 --> 4643.26] changed -[4643.26 --> 4644.26] everything -[4644.26 --> 4645.18] and so -[4645.18 --> 4645.48] now -[4645.48 --> 4646.14] send us -[4646.14 --> 4646.44] out -[4646.44 --> 4646.90] fueled -[4646.90 --> 4647.28] by the -[4647.28 --> 4647.58] witness -[4647.58 --> 4648.02] of the -[4648.02 --> 4648.30] word -[4648.30 --> 4649.74] send -[4649.74 --> 4649.94] us -[4649.94 --> 4650.16] out -[4650.16 --> 4650.30] that -[4650.30 --> 4650.42] we -[4650.42 --> 4650.68] might -[4650.68 --> 4651.32] see -[4651.32 --> 4651.72] you -[4651.72 --> 4653.74] send -[4653.74 --> 4653.94] us -[4653.94 --> 4654.14] out -[4654.14 --> 4654.66] empowered -[4654.66 --> 4655.52] by the -[4655.52 --> 4655.74] Holy -[4655.74 --> 4656.12] Spirit -[4656.12 --> 4657.06] to a -[4657.06 --> 4657.46] world -[4657.46 --> 4658.10] mired -[4658.10 --> 4658.36] in -[4658.36 --> 4658.82] death -[4658.82 --> 4660.00] and -[4660.00 --> 4660.54] darkness -[4660.54 --> 4662.60] send -[4662.60 --> 4662.84] us -[4662.84 --> 4663.14] out -[4663.14 --> 4664.44] in the -[4664.44 --> 4664.86] truth -[4664.86 --> 4666.16] of the -[4666.16 --> 4666.64] resurrection -[4666.64 --> 4668.68] power -[4668.68 --> 4670.06] of your -[4670.06 --> 4670.80] Holy -[4670.80 --> 4671.68] Spirit -[4671.68 --> 4673.50] amen -[4673.50 --> 4686.36] 22 -[4686.36 --> 4687.44] 2 -[4687.44 --> 4688.44] facebook -[4688.44 --> 4688.80] offs -[4688.80 --> 4689.08] will -[4689.08 --> 4692.00] be -[4692.00 --> 4693.28] one -[4693.28 --> 4694.02] 경우에는 -[4694.02 --> 4694.14] steb -[4694.14 --> 4694.66] 斯 -[4694.66 --> 4695.18] ỉ -[4695.18 --> 4696.92] ост -[4698.00 --> 4698.82] Wrong -[4698.82 --> 4714.60] There's a reason why the curse of sin is broken -[4714.60 --> 4720.70] There's a reason why the darkness runs from light -[4720.70 --> 4726.82] There's a reason why we stand here now for him -[4726.82 --> 4731.26] Jesus is the light -[4731.26 --> 4740.74] There's a reason why we are not overtaken -[4740.74 --> 4746.96] There's a reason why we sing on through the night -[4746.96 --> 4753.58] There's a reason why our hope remains eternal -[4753.58 --> 4758.02] Jesus is the light -[4758.02 --> 4768.06] Praise the King, He is risen -[4768.06 --> 4774.02] Praise the King, He's alive -[4774.02 --> 4780.70] Praise the King, Death's defeated -[4780.70 --> 4785.46] Hallelujah, He's alive -[4785.46 --> 4792.46] Hallelujah, He's alive -[4792.46 --> 4796.90] There's a reason why our hearts can be forgiven -[4796.90 --> 4804.90] There's a reason why the dead are made alive -[4804.90 --> 4809.90] There's a reason why we share His resurrection -[4809.90 --> 4814.34] Jesus is the light -[4814.34 --> 4818.78] Oh, He's alive -[4818.78 --> 4824.78] Praise the King, He is risen -[4824.78 --> 4828.78] Praise the King, He's alive -[4828.78 --> 4836.50] Praise the King, Death's defeated -[4836.50 --> 4840.94] Hallelujah, He's alive -[4840.94 --> 4846.94] Hallelujah, He's alive -[4846.94 --> 4863.78] The grave could not ignore it -[4863.78 --> 4866.60] With all of heaven's roaring -[4866.60 --> 4869.66] Hell, where is your victory? -[4870.20 --> 4872.32] Death, where is your sting? -[4872.32 --> 4875.76] The world could not ignore it -[4875.76 --> 4878.76] When all of heaven's roaring -[4878.76 --> 4881.54] Hell, where is your victory? -[4882.08 --> 4884.32] Death, where is your sting? -[4884.32 --> 4887.66] The grave could not ignore it -[4887.66 --> 4890.44] When all of heaven's roaring -[4890.44 --> 4893.40] Hell, where is your victory? -[4893.84 --> 4896.18] Death, where is your sting? -[4896.40 --> 4899.46] The world could not ignore it -[4899.46 --> 4900.46] When all of heaven's roaring -[4900.46 --> 4902.46] When all of the saints are roaring -[4902.46 --> 4905.28] Hell, where is your victory? -[4905.28 --> 4908.22] Death, where is your sting? -[4908.22 --> 4910.90] The world could not ignore it -[4910.90 --> 4917.02] Praise the King, He is risen -[4917.02 --> 4921.22] Praise the King, He's alive -[4921.22 --> 4928.40] Praise the King, Death's defeated -[4928.40 --> 4930.40] Mayor, of northeast football -[4930.40 --> 4943.28] Hallelujah, He's alive -[4943.28 --> 4950.28] Hallelujah, He's alive -[4950.28 --> 4952.28] Hallelujah, He's alive -[4952.28 --> 4955.10] Hallelujah, He's alive -[4955.10 --> 4956.18] Hallelujah, He's alive -[4956.18 --> 4957.06] Hallelujah, He's alive -[4957.06 --> 4958.38] Hallelujah, He's alive -[4958.40 --> 4964.08] Hi kids, come back up, come back up. -[4964.26 --> 4966.38] We're ready for the second part of the story. -[4966.88 --> 4971.72] If you heard that song, you probably have a really, really big clue what the second part is. -[4971.78 --> 4973.12] But let's just read it together. -[4973.56 --> 4977.46] Because we know that the story wasn't over when Jesus died. -[4978.38 --> 4983.10] So very early on Sunday morning, the ground began to rumble. -[4983.20 --> 4984.24] It was another earthquake. -[4984.24 --> 4989.82] Then a bright angel came down from heaven and rolled away that big stone. -[4990.44 --> 4992.02] The angel sat right on top. -[4993.00 --> 4995.32] The soldiers at the tomb, well, they were terrified. -[4995.76 --> 4996.46] What was happening? -[4997.52 --> 5003.68] At that very moment, some of Jesus' friends, they were on their way to put more of those spices onto his body. -[5004.30 --> 5006.34] So many thoughts were going through their mind. -[5006.78 --> 5009.18] How were they going to move that giant stone? -[5009.74 --> 5011.02] What if they couldn't move it? -[5011.02 --> 5014.08] Well, were they ever surprised when they arrived? -[5014.16 --> 5016.84] When they came to the tomb, the stone was already rolled. -[5017.34 --> 5018.70] The tomb was open. -[5020.64 --> 5022.82] Sitting on the stone was a bright angel. -[5023.24 --> 5026.04] It was a terrifying sight, and the women, they were frightened. -[5027.10 --> 5029.28] Don't be afraid, the angel said kindly. -[5029.90 --> 5032.76] I know you're looking for Jesus, but he's not here. -[5032.88 --> 5034.00] He has risen. -[5034.50 --> 5035.32] He's alive. -[5035.48 --> 5036.46] Come see for yourself. -[5036.46 --> 5042.54] Let's take a look at our crescent roll here that we did. -[5042.70 --> 5043.58] Hopefully you can see it. -[5043.64 --> 5045.20] Oh, it's stuck a little tiny bit. -[5045.30 --> 5046.52] Can you see what's inside? -[5046.62 --> 5047.80] What happened to that marshmallow? -[5048.04 --> 5048.80] Is it in there? -[5049.68 --> 5050.36] It's gone. -[5050.96 --> 5051.70] Completely gone. -[5051.80 --> 5052.60] So it's empty. -[5052.80 --> 5053.76] The cloths are empty. -[5053.92 --> 5055.30] The cloths were folded. -[5055.96 --> 5056.88] Put it back there. -[5059.08 --> 5060.62] The women looked at each other. -[5060.70 --> 5061.62] How could that be? -[5061.74 --> 5062.62] Was this true? -[5062.62 --> 5068.18] The women were amazed, and they hurried off to obey the angel and to spread the news. -[5068.30 --> 5069.72] It's wonderful, said Mary. -[5070.12 --> 5071.70] Jesus is alive. -[5072.06 --> 5072.58] Alive. -[5073.48 --> 5075.68] Suddenly, there was Jesus himself. -[5076.44 --> 5079.04] Mary, Magdalene, and the other Mary, they ran to him. -[5079.12 --> 5080.30] They fell at his feet. -[5080.92 --> 5082.40] All they could think of was Jesus. -[5083.34 --> 5084.14] It was true. -[5084.28 --> 5085.64] Jesus was alive. -[5086.00 --> 5089.00] He was standing right in front of them, talking to them. -[5089.52 --> 5090.04] Alive. -[5090.04 --> 5095.06] Now, my friend, said Jesus, go and tell my disciples that I am alive. -[5096.02 --> 5097.28] What an amazing thing. -[5097.46 --> 5098.24] Jesus died. -[5098.62 --> 5101.56] But now, Jesus lives for us. -[5101.96 --> 5102.86] And it's true. -[5103.16 --> 5104.16] All true. -[5111.28 --> 5111.84] Amen. -[5111.84 --> 5112.02] Amen. -[5112.68 --> 5117.28] Thank you for worshiping with us this Easter Sunday morning. -[5117.28 --> 5124.86] As you go into this week, regardless of what the week has in store for you, know that God himself goes with you. -[5124.94 --> 5127.82] And so, receive his blessing. -[5129.50 --> 5132.16] May God go before you to lead you. -[5133.22 --> 5135.36] May God go behind you to guard you. -[5136.18 --> 5138.34] May God go beneath you to support you. -[5138.52 --> 5141.22] And may God go beside you to befriend you. -[5141.52 --> 5142.92] Do not be afraid. -[5143.16 --> 5144.38] He is alive. -[5144.38 --> 5146.74] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5146.86 --> 5148.24] Do not be afraid. -[5148.64 --> 5150.54] He is alive. -[5151.50 --> 5151.80] Go. -[5152.76 --> 5153.66] In peace. -[5154.70 --> 5157.60] To love and serve our risen Lord. -[5158.56 --> 5158.92] Amen. -[5158.92 --> 5159.04] Amen. -[5159.04 --> 5159.08] Amen. -[5159.08 --> 5159.10] Amen. -[5159.10 --> 5159.14] Amen. -[5159.14 --> 5163.14] Amen. -[5163.14 --> 5164.04] Amen. -[5164.04 --> 5165.14] Amen. -[5165.14 --> 5167.20] Amen. -[5167.20 --> 5168.14] Amen. -[5168.14 --> 5169.14] Amen. -[5169.14 --> 5170.14] Amen. -[5170.14 --> 5171.14] Amen. -[5171.14 --> 5172.14] Amen. -[5172.14 --> 5172.20] Amen. -[5172.20 --> 5172.24] Amen. -[5174.38 --> 5177.88] Amen. -[5177.88 --> 5177.96] Amen. -[5178.12 --> 5178.40] Amen. -[5178.40 --> 5180.06] Amen. -[5186.44 --> 5186.50] Amen. -[5188.60 --> 5188.98] Amen. -[5188.98 --> 5195.86] One day when heaven was filled with his praises -[5195.86 --> 5201.62] One day when sin was as black as could be -[5201.62 --> 5208.10] Jesus came forth to be born of a virgin -[5208.10 --> 5213.94] Dwelt among men, my example is he -[5213.94 --> 5221.14] The word became flesh and the light shined among us -[5221.14 --> 5223.94] His glory revealed -[5223.94 --> 5230.50] Living he loved me, dying he saved me -[5230.50 --> 5236.38] Married he carried my sins far away -[5236.38 --> 5242.54] Rising he justified freely forever -[5242.54 --> 5249.02] One day he's coming, oh glorious day -[5249.02 --> 5251.54] Glorious day -[5251.54 --> 5267.82] One day they led him to Calvary's mountain -[5267.82 --> 5273.62] One day they nailed him to die on a tree -[5273.62 --> 5280.10] Suffering anguish, despised and rejected -[5280.10 --> 5285.62] Burying our sins, our redeemer is he -[5285.62 --> 5292.10] The hand that healed nations stretched out on a tree -[5292.10 --> 5296.10] And took the nails for me -[5296.10 --> 5302.10] Living he loved me, dying he saved me -[5302.10 --> 5307.10] Buried he carried my sins far away -[5307.10 --> 5313.10] Rising he justified freely forever -[5313.10 --> 5319.58] One day he's coming, oh glorious day -[5319.58 --> 5335.58] One day the grave could conceal him no longer -[5335.58 --> 5336.58] One day the grave could conceal him no longer -[5336.58 --> 5337.58] One day the grave could conceal him no longer -[5337.58 --> 5338.58] One day the grave could conceal him no longer -[5338.58 --> 5342.06] One day the storm rolled away from the door -[5342.06 --> 5347.58] Then he arose, oh, for death he had conquered -[5347.58 --> 5352.58] Now he's ascended my lord evermore -[5352.58 --> 5354.06] Now he's ascended my lord evermore -[5354.06 --> 5356.06] The death could not hold him -[5356.06 --> 5358.06] The grave could not hold him -[5358.06 --> 5359.06] The grave could not keep him -[5359.06 --> 5361.06] The grave could not keep him -[5361.06 --> 5363.06] Rising again -[5363.06 --> 5370.06] Living he loved me, dying he saved me -[5370.06 --> 5375.06] Buried he carried my sins far away -[5375.06 --> 5382.06] Rising he justified freely forever -[5382.06 --> 5388.06] One day he's coming, oh glorious day -[5388.06 --> 5392.06] Oh glorious day -[5392.06 --> 5394.06] Oh glorious day -[5394.06 --> 5398.06] Oh glorious day -[5398.06 --> 5403.06] One day -[5403.06 --> 5408.06] One day the trumpet will sound for his coming -[5408.06 --> 5414.06] One day the skies with his glories will shine -[5414.06 --> 5420.06] Wonderful day my beloved one bringing -[5420.06 --> 5424.06] My savior Jesus is mine -[5424.06 --> 5431.06] Living he loved me, dying he saved me -[5431.06 --> 5437.06] Buried he carried my sins far away -[5437.06 --> 5443.06] Rising he justified freely forever -[5443.06 --> 5449.06] One day he's coming, oh glorious day -[5449.06 --> 5453.06] glorious day -[5453.06 --> 5455.06] Glorious day -[5455.06 --> 5458.06] Oh glorious day -[5458.06 --> 5459.06] Oh glorious day -[5459.06 --> 5463.06] Oh glorious day -[5463.06 --> 5464.06] Oh glorious day -[5465.06 --> 5466.06] Glorious day -[5466.06 --> 5469.06] Oh glorious day -[5469.06 --> 5474.14] Gl Videogle -[5479.06 --> 5496.62] I raise a hallelujah in the presence of my enemies. -[5498.62 --> 5502.48] I raise a hallelujah. -[5503.48 --> 5504.10] Come on. -[5504.10 --> 5509.10] Louder than the unbelief. -[5510.36 --> 5514.16] I raise a hallelujah. -[5516.32 --> 5519.78] My weapon is a melody. -[5522.92 --> 5525.92] I raise a hallelujah. -[5528.92 --> 5532.10] Heaven comes to fight for me. -[5534.10 --> 5540.14] And I'm gonna sing in the living of the storm. -[5541.02 --> 5543.12] Louder and louder. -[5543.56 --> 5546.54] You're gonna hear my praises roar. -[5547.06 --> 5551.10] Up from the ashes, hope will run. -[5552.76 --> 5554.10] Death is defeated. -[5555.54 --> 5557.10] The King is alive. -[5557.10 --> 5559.88] Yeah, come on. -[5562.88 --> 5565.32] Come on, your King is alive today. -[5567.16 --> 5569.78] I raise a hallelujah. -[5572.78 --> 5575.78] With everything inside of me. -[5575.78 --> 5581.50] I raise a hallelujah. -[5581.50 --> 5588.42] I will watch the darkness bleed. -[5589.42 --> 5593.22] I raise a hallelujah. -[5593.22 --> 5599.02] Oh, in the middle of the mystery. -[5602.24 --> 5604.86] I raise a hallelujah. -[5605.60 --> 5605.96] Tearez. -[5607.82 --> 5611.36] Oh, fear you lost, you hold on me. -[5611.66 --> 5612.42] Sing it out! -[5612.42 --> 5619.12] I'm going to sing in the middle of the storm -[5619.12 --> 5625.10] And louder and louder, you're going to hear my praises roll -[5625.10 --> 5631.02] Up from the ashes, hope will arise -[5631.02 --> 5636.78] Death is defeated, the King is alive -[5642.42 --> 5659.84] Sing a little louder -[5659.84 --> 5665.34] work -[5665.34 --> 5671.34] Sing a little louder -[5671.34 --> 5677.34] Sing a little louder -[5677.34 --> 5680.94] Impressions of my enemy -[5680.94 --> 5683.34] Sing a little louder -[5683.34 --> 5687.34] Louder than the unbelief -[5687.34 --> 5689.34] Sing a little louder -[5689.34 --> 5692.54] My weapon is a melody -[5692.54 --> 5694.84] Sing a little louder -[5694.84 --> 5698.84] Heaven comes to fight for me -[5698.84 --> 5700.84] Sing a little louder -[5700.84 --> 5704.84] In the presence of my enemy -[5704.84 --> 5706.84] Sing a little louder -[5706.84 --> 5710.84] Louder than the unbelief -[5710.84 --> 5712.84] Sing a little louder -[5712.84 --> 5716.84] My weapon is a melody -[5716.84 --> 5718.84] Sing a little louder -[5718.84 --> 5722.84] Heaven comes to fight for me -[5722.84 --> 5724.84] Sing a little louder -[5724.84 --> 5726.84] I'm gonna sing -[5726.84 --> 5730.84] In the middle of the storm -[5730.84 --> 5732.84] And louder and louder -[5732.84 --> 5736.84] You're gonna hear my praises roar -[5736.84 --> 5738.84] Up from the ashes -[5738.84 --> 5742.84] Hope will arise -[5742.84 --> 5744.84] Death is defeated -[5744.84 --> 5746.84] Death is defeated -[5746.84 --> 5748.84] The King is alive -[5748.84 --> 5750.84] And I'm gonna sing -[5750.84 --> 5752.84] In the middle of the storm -[5752.84 --> 5754.84] And louder and louder -[5754.84 --> 5759.96] Lighter in the light, you're gonna hear my praises roar. -[5759.96 --> 5766.02] Up from the eyes, hope will arise. -[5766.14 --> 5771.96] Let this exceed in, the King is alive. -[5774.66 --> 5777.58] I'm raising, hallelujah. -[5780.14 --> 5783.44] I'm raising, hallelujah. -[5784.84 --> 5789.34] All praise, hallelujah -[5789.34 --> 5795.16] All praise, hallelujah diff --git a/Easter Sunday, March 31, 2024_summary.txt b/Easter Sunday, March 31, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b058b809cf25abfad6c7501fb97c2bef38319ca4..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Easter Sunday, March 31, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,115 +0,0 @@ -• The speaker mentions that it's Easter Sunday or Resurrection Sunday. -• The speaker invites the audience to open their Bibles and read from Matthew 28:1-10 together. -• The speaker shares their personal preference for Easter Sunday as a favorite day of the year. -• The speaker notes the change in seasons and the beauty of nature on this day. -• Discussion of the current season's lovely weather -• The importance of rehearsing the resurrection story every Sunday -• Matthew 28:1-10 is read, describing Jesus' resurrection -• Explanation that if God is not dead, there is nothing to fear -• Reflection on the significance of the women in the Easter story and their role in witnessing the resurrection -• The role of women in the story of Jesus' Resurrection -• The absence of male disciples during key moments (Good Friday, Burial) -• The faithfulness and perseverance of the women who served Jesus -• Their reward: being the first to see Jesus after his Resurrection -• Jesus' greeting to the women: "Greetings. Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers." -• Matthew's intention to highlight the inclusion and pride of place given to women in the story -• Criticism of male disciples, specifically Peter, James, and John, for their failed devotion -• Deprecation of male disciples through contrast with the faithful women -• Questions about the whereabouts and actions of male disciples during significant events (Peter's denial, Jesus' transfiguration) -• The speaker discusses the biblical account of Eve and Adam in the Garden of Eden -• Eve's offspring, Jesus, has defeated sin and death -• Women are refusing to hide their faithfulness and devotion -• Men in the congregation need to hear this message and consider their own roles and expectations -• Statistically, women do most of the work in churches, including faith formation -• Men between 30-60 are the hardest demographic to get involved in church activities -• The importance of understanding Matthew's account as historical fact -• Matthew's focus on mentioning women present at the event -• The significance of Jesus appearing first to two women -• Christianity's rootedness in history and its connection to the Bible -• Archaeological evidence supporting biblical events, despite perceived gaps or contradictions -• Christianity's gospel writers created myths to bolster their social power -• Early church created stories of great power and influence to support their new reality -• This was done to keep social capital and maintain influence -• The Gospels were written before the early Christian community had any significant social influence or power -• The creation of these stories did not protect the Christians' power, but rather made them more vulnerable -• The power of the day, with the Roman Empire -• Problem with argument is biased in favor of characters who come out better than they do -• Jewish and Roman legal traditions require testimony from at least two people, making women unreliable witnesses -• In a court of law, women don't count as reliable witnesses -• Matthew's inclusion of women as eyewitnesses suggests he prioritizes telling history accurately -• The resurrection of Jesus is supported by multiple eyewitness accounts -• Paul had a vision of Jesus on the Damascus road and believed in his resurrection -• Belief in the resurrection is based on history, evidence, and reason -• The resurrection is both a historical claim and a theological statement about God's victory over sin and death -• Resurrection of Jesus -• Not fearing death due to resurrection -• Death's loss of power and sting -• Satan defeated, no reason to fear him -• Rehearsal of the resurrection every Sunday -• Christian perspective on death -• The worst thing that could happen has already occurred (death with Christ) -• Discussion of Romans 6 and Colossians 2 -• The idea that we died with Christ through the gospel -• Union with Christ through the cross and resurrection -• Death no longer having mastery over believers due to Christ's sacrifice -• Fearlessness in death because of spiritual union with Christ -• Materialization of spiritual union, eliminating fear -• Paul's writings in Romans 6 and Colossians on this topic -• Being raised with Christ -• Spiritual truth and the resurrection of Jesus -• Seated at God's right hand in heavenly realms -• Already raised with Christ, regardless of circumstances -• The gospel and church have proclaimed this message for millennia -• The claim of the resurrection is that because God is not dead, we do not need to fear death. -• Resurrected people have a mission to tell others about Jesus and declare his redemption. -• Our purpose now is to be used by God in all areas of life to proclaim his truth. -• The tomb is empty and we are not afraid -• But fear can come back in everyday life -• God gives provision for these situations through the Holy Spirit's power -• We come to the Lord's table for nourishment and sustenance on our journeys of faith -• We rehearse the resurrection story and receive the resurrected Jesus in power -• The Lord is present with us and sends us out in his name -• The liturgy being described on the screen -• Opening hymn "Glory to you, O Lord our God" and its repetition with slight variations -• Prayer for the Holy Spirit to be poured out upon them -• Communion prayer asking God to make them one with Christ through his body and blood -• Reflections on sharing in the body and blood of Christ through bread and cup -• Gratitude and participation in the blood of Christ through drinking the cup -• The prayer of thanks for Jesus Christ's sacrifice and resurrection -• The presentation of oneself as a living sacrifice to the Lord -• Proclamation of Christ's death, affirmation with joy of his resurrection, and anticipation of his coming -• Invitation to come to Christ for rest and guidance -• Emphasis on coming to Christ out of penitence and weakness rather than strength or righteousness -• Invitation to all who are laboring and heavy laden to come to Christ for rest -• Introduction to a modified communion ceremony -• Instructions for receiving the elements with a changed phrase -• Invitation of worship volunteers and elders for ushering -• Accommodations for those unable to come forward -• Reminder about gluten-free bread availability -• Serving volunteers invitation to come forward -• Repeated expression of gratitude (approximately 13 times) -• Praise and worship -• The cross of Calvary and redemption -• Jesus as King and Lord -• Victory and triumph over sin and death -• The sacrifice of Christ -• Praise to God's holy name -• Eternality of God's reign -• Confession of faith in the name of Jesus -• References to God and Jesus Christ -• Discussion of the power and glory of Jesus' name -• Mention of sin, death, and grave -• Description of Jesus' sacrifice and resurrection -• Expression of gratitude for salvation -• Reference to the Bible verse "Thy strength indeed is small" -• Mention of singing a song called "Jesus Messiah" -• Jesus, Messiah, and Lord of all -• Cancer and healing -• Rescue for sinners and ransom of heaven -• Hope in Jesus -• Invitation to pray with someone or receive prayer -• Going out as a community with God's blessing and protection -• Spreading the message of the risen Savior -• Hallelujah songs and celebration of Jesus' victory over death -• Repeating phrases of devotion and worship ("He is our God", "We have his hope", "In Jesus Christ") -• Repetitive expression of gratitude ("Thank you") \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Easter Sunday, March 31, 2024_transcript.txt b/Easter Sunday, March 31, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d9261ca840efc7a3ff9c071c57bcbb6c39198db1..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Easter Sunday, March 31, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2415 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 599.96] Thank you. -[599.98 --> 629.94] Thank you. -[629.94 --> 659.92] And I will connect with you. -[659.92 --> 689.90] Thank you. -[689.94 --> 719.90] Thank you. -[719.90 --> 719.92] Thank you. -[749.90 --> 779.88] Thank you. -[779.90 --> 779.92] Thank you. -[809.90 --> 839.88] Thank you. -[839.90 --> 869.88] Thank you. -[869.88 --> 899.88] Thank you. -[899.88 --> 929.86] Thank you. -[929.86 --> 959.84] All right, children, -[959.86 --> 989.84] Thank you. -[989.86 --> 1019.84] Thank you. -[1019.86 --> 1049.84] Thank you. -[1049.86 --> 1079.84] Thank you. -[1079.86 --> 1109.84] Thank you. -[1109.86 --> 1139.84] Thank you. -[1139.86 --> 1169.84] Thank you. -[1169.86 --> 1199.84] Thank you. -[1199.86 --> 1229.84] Thank you. -[1229.86 --> 1259.84] Thank you. -[1259.84 --> 1289.82] Thank you. -[1289.84 --> 1319.82] Thank you. -[1319.84 --> 1349.82] Alleluia. -[1349.84 --> 1379.82] Thank you. -[1379.84 --> 1409.82] Thank you. -[1409.84 --> 1439.82] Thank you. -[1439.84 --> 1469.82] Thank you. -[1469.84 --> 1499.82] Thank you. -[1499.82 --> 1529.80] Thank you. -[1529.82 --> 1559.80] Thank you. -[1559.82 --> 1589.80] Thank you. -[1589.82 --> 1619.80] Thank you. -[1619.82 --> 1649.80] Thank you. -[1649.82 --> 1679.80] Thank you. -[1679.82 --> 1709.80] hear these words. -[1709.80 --> 1739.78] Thank you. -[1739.78 --> 1769.76] Thank you. -[1769.78 --> 1799.76] Thank you. -[1799.76 --> 1829.74] Thank you. -[1829.76 --> 1859.74] Thank you. -[1859.76 --> 1889.74] Thank you. -[1889.76 --> 1919.74] Thank you. -[1919.76 --> 1949.74] Thank you. -[1949.76 --> 1979.74] Thank you. -[1979.76 --> 2009.74] Thank you. -[2009.76 --> 2039.74] Thank you. -[2039.74 --> 2069.72] Thank you. -[2069.72 --> 2099.72] Thank you. -[2099.72 --> 2129.70] Thank you. -[2129.70 --> 2159.68] Thank you. -[2159.70 --> 2189.68] Thank you. -[2189.70 --> 2219.68] Thank you. -[2219.70 --> 2249.68] Thank you. -[2249.68 --> 2279.66] Thank you. -[2279.66 --> 2309.64] Thank you. -[2309.66 --> 2339.64] Thank you. -[2339.66 --> 2369.64] Thank you. -[2369.66 --> 2399.64] Thank you. -[2399.66 --> 2429.64] Thank you. -[2429.66 --> 2459.64] Thank you. -[2459.66 --> 2489.64] Thank you. -[2489.64 --> 2519.62] Thank you. -[2519.62 --> 2549.60] Thank you. -[2549.60 --> 2579.58] Thank you. -[2579.60 --> 2609.58] And each one. -[2609.58 --> 2639.56] Thank you. -[2639.56 --> 2641.56] And you guys are ready. -[2669.56 --> 2699.54] Thank you. -[2699.56 --> 2729.54] Thank you. -[2729.54 --> 2759.52] Father, it's a good day. -[2759.52 --> 2789.52] Thank you. -[2789.52 --> 2819.50] Sunday. -[2819.52 --> 2849.50] Thank you. -[2849.50 --> 2879.48] Father, we pray. -[2879.48 --> 2909.46] We also give you, -[2909.46 --> 2939.44] Eli's off they and you Just like, -[2939.44 --> 2941.50] Jesus' love and sacrifice for us. -[2943.28 --> 2945.84] Now to you who is able to keep us from falling, -[2946.10 --> 2948.78] be glory, majesty, power, and authority -[2948.78 --> 2950.72] through Jesus Christ our Lord -[2950.72 --> 2953.62] before all ages, now, and forevermore. -[2954.36 --> 2954.66] Amen. -[2969.44 --> 2974.96] If you have a Bible, -[2975.42 --> 2978.26] or if you have a device on which you read your Bible, -[2978.32 --> 2981.88] I'm going to invite you to open that up or turn that on. -[2981.88 --> 2985.18] We're going to read from Matthew 28, -[2985.50 --> 2988.30] verse 1 through 10 together this morning. -[2990.32 --> 2992.02] Before we do that, -[2994.42 --> 2997.82] Easter Sunday, Resurrection Sunday, -[2997.82 --> 3000.66] is, I say this every year, I think, -[3000.76 --> 3003.50] my favorite Sunday of the year. -[3003.82 --> 3005.50] My favorite day of the year. -[3006.08 --> 3009.66] It is a beautiful time to gather -[3009.66 --> 3012.00] and to celebrate and to remember, -[3012.36 --> 3015.58] and it's also the seasons changing, -[3015.98 --> 3019.18] and the sun is shining just a little bit brightened, -[3019.40 --> 3021.38] even if there was frost this morning. -[3022.46 --> 3025.20] It's not like in Ontario, where I used to live, -[3025.24 --> 3026.80] where there was snow this week. -[3027.82 --> 3030.42] Here we have cherry blossoms blooming -[3030.42 --> 3032.10] and flowers coming up. -[3032.16 --> 3034.12] It is just a lovely season. -[3034.32 --> 3036.62] And on this Sunday, of all Sundays, -[3036.74 --> 3039.28] the bright colors come out again -[3039.28 --> 3041.70] as everyone wears that to church. -[3041.78 --> 3045.00] It is just a good time to be here. -[3045.70 --> 3046.68] And on Easter Sunday, -[3047.16 --> 3051.88] we once again rehearse the story of our faith. -[3051.88 --> 3056.88] We rehearse the story of the whole drama of redemption. -[3058.02 --> 3059.34] Now, the truth is, of course, -[3059.48 --> 3062.68] every Sunday, that's what we're doing in our worship. -[3063.44 --> 3067.62] Every Sunday, we are rehearsing Resurrection Sunday. -[3068.16 --> 3068.62] Right? -[3068.70 --> 3071.46] We come in our darkness and need. -[3071.72 --> 3074.08] We come confessing our sin to God -[3074.08 --> 3076.22] who invites us into his presence, -[3076.22 --> 3080.38] and we receive from him a word of hope -[3080.38 --> 3081.68] and a word of life. -[3081.82 --> 3084.98] We receive from him newness in spirit. -[3085.18 --> 3087.42] We are raised up with him -[3087.42 --> 3091.00] and then sent out on mission to proclaim this truth. -[3091.16 --> 3092.96] That's what we do every Sunday -[3092.96 --> 3096.40] because of what happens today, -[3097.24 --> 3101.32] because of what we remember and reflect on today. -[3101.32 --> 3105.32] And so today, explicitly and intentionally, -[3105.76 --> 3110.38] we are going to rehearse the resurrection story. -[3112.24 --> 3116.00] I'm going to read Matthew 28 for you. -[3118.82 --> 3122.84] After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, -[3123.08 --> 3125.12] Mary Magdalene and the other Mary -[3125.12 --> 3126.84] went to look at the tomb. -[3128.00 --> 3129.46] There was a violent earthquake, -[3129.46 --> 3131.88] for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven -[3131.88 --> 3133.42] and going to the tomb, -[3133.60 --> 3135.90] rolled back the stone and sat on it. -[3136.78 --> 3138.52] His appearance was like lightning -[3138.52 --> 3140.30] and his clothes were white as snow. -[3140.66 --> 3142.48] The guards were so afraid of him -[3142.48 --> 3144.90] that they shook and became like dead men. -[3146.04 --> 3147.56] The angel said to the women, -[3148.80 --> 3149.86] Do not be afraid, -[3150.28 --> 3152.08] for I know that you are looking for Jesus -[3152.08 --> 3153.00] who was crucified. -[3153.46 --> 3154.76] He is not here. -[3155.14 --> 3156.88] He has risen just as he said. -[3157.20 --> 3159.32] Come and see the place where he lay. -[3159.46 --> 3161.84] Then go quickly and tell his disciples, -[3162.00 --> 3163.24] He has risen from the dead -[3163.24 --> 3165.42] and is going ahead of you into Galilee. -[3165.84 --> 3166.94] There you will see him. -[3167.92 --> 3169.12] Now I have told you. -[3170.18 --> 3172.64] And so the women hurried away from the tomb, -[3172.80 --> 3175.18] afraid and yet filled with joy, -[3175.64 --> 3177.34] and ran to tell his disciples. -[3178.92 --> 3181.04] Suddenly, Jesus met them. -[3181.04 --> 3182.04] Greetings, he said. -[3182.04 --> 3183.98] Greetings, he said. -[3184.98 --> 3186.32] They came to him, -[3186.92 --> 3188.16] clasped his feet, -[3188.30 --> 3189.96] and worshipped him. -[3190.84 --> 3192.40] And then Jesus said to them, -[3192.58 --> 3194.98] Do not be afraid. -[3195.92 --> 3199.32] Go, tell my brothers to go to Galilee. -[3200.06 --> 3202.14] There they will see me. -[3202.82 --> 3204.06] This is the word of the Lord. -[3204.06 --> 3215.08] The reason why we rehearse Resurrection Sunday, -[3215.34 --> 3216.48] every Sunday, -[3217.06 --> 3220.82] is because of the truth that says, -[3221.32 --> 3223.28] If God is not dead, -[3224.08 --> 3226.28] there is nothing to fear. -[3226.28 --> 3230.72] Dave made note that on Good Friday, -[3230.92 --> 3231.66] when we gathered, -[3232.28 --> 3234.60] we heard and lived into the truth -[3234.60 --> 3236.00] that God is dead, -[3236.08 --> 3237.96] and we have killed him. -[3238.08 --> 3239.66] But Sunday has come, -[3239.72 --> 3242.64] and something has changed. -[3243.90 --> 3245.62] And that thing that has changed -[3245.62 --> 3247.58] is that the God who died -[3247.58 --> 3251.44] has been raised to new life again. -[3251.44 --> 3254.16] And if God's not dead, -[3254.74 --> 3257.34] there's nothing to fear. -[3258.86 --> 3260.50] Now, as we rehearse this story, -[3261.12 --> 3262.86] I want to get at that -[3262.86 --> 3266.20] in a way different -[3266.20 --> 3267.76] than I have ever done before -[3267.76 --> 3269.54] in Easter Reflections, -[3270.02 --> 3272.04] because I want to look -[3272.04 --> 3274.58] at the women in this story. -[3275.68 --> 3276.92] It's the third day -[3276.92 --> 3279.66] since Jesus has been crucified. -[3279.66 --> 3280.66] It's Sunday, -[3280.84 --> 3282.12] the day after the Sabbath, -[3282.40 --> 3283.74] and we read that -[3283.74 --> 3285.86] at dawn of the first day of the week, -[3286.14 --> 3288.00] Mary Magdalene and the other Mary -[3288.00 --> 3289.52] went to look at the tomb. -[3290.96 --> 3292.16] Now, what I want us to see -[3292.16 --> 3294.42] is to notice the presence -[3294.42 --> 3297.04] and the role of these women -[3297.04 --> 3298.60] in the story. -[3299.38 --> 3299.60] Right? -[3299.66 --> 3301.60] At dawn on the first day of the week, -[3301.72 --> 3304.06] the first thing these two do -[3304.06 --> 3306.66] is go to Jesus. -[3307.38 --> 3309.20] But it's not just this day. -[3309.20 --> 3311.52] It's not just Resurrection Sunday -[3311.52 --> 3313.20] that they did not yet know -[3313.20 --> 3313.84] was coming. -[3314.28 --> 3314.42] Right? -[3314.46 --> 3315.84] It's been all along. -[3316.38 --> 3317.64] If you have your Bible open, -[3317.70 --> 3318.26] you can see it. -[3318.30 --> 3319.74] Look back on Good Friday, -[3320.66 --> 3321.98] the death of Jesus. -[3322.82 --> 3325.08] In chapter 27, verse 55, -[3325.46 --> 3325.96] we read, -[3325.96 --> 3344.34] The male disciples in this story -[3344.34 --> 3346.34] are nowhere to be found. -[3346.34 --> 3347.34] Right? -[3349.30 --> 3350.34] In the story of Jesus' death, -[3350.38 --> 3351.20] we looked at on Friday, -[3351.34 --> 3353.10] it takes a Roman centurion -[3353.10 --> 3355.06] to announce what these women -[3355.06 --> 3356.06] have seen all along. -[3357.34 --> 3358.90] In the story that follows -[3358.90 --> 3359.96] after the death of Jesus, -[3360.10 --> 3361.80] the story that my Bible anyway -[3361.80 --> 3363.48] titles The Burial of Jesus, -[3364.34 --> 3365.52] in verse 57, -[3366.52 --> 3368.40] you have Joseph of Arimathea -[3368.40 --> 3371.12] who asks Pilate for Jesus' body -[3371.12 --> 3372.20] that he may take him. -[3372.20 --> 3374.40] Pilate says yes, -[3374.60 --> 3375.74] and then Jesus' body -[3375.74 --> 3377.10] is placed in a tomb -[3377.10 --> 3379.24] with a circular stone in front. -[3379.34 --> 3380.54] I have a picture of that, -[3380.60 --> 3380.96] I think. -[3382.22 --> 3383.16] This is a picture -[3383.16 --> 3385.58] from when I was visiting Israel, -[3385.58 --> 3387.12] and these tombs are dotted -[3387.12 --> 3388.16] throughout the land. -[3388.22 --> 3390.26] This is what it would have looked like -[3390.26 --> 3391.54] for Joseph's tomb -[3391.54 --> 3393.20] in that area, -[3393.28 --> 3394.20] although where it is now -[3394.20 --> 3396.26] is the metropolis of Jerusalem. -[3396.88 --> 3398.24] This is outside of Jerusalem. -[3398.24 --> 3401.56] And so the women go to the tomb, -[3401.64 --> 3403.06] and we're told in verse 61, -[3404.02 --> 3406.66] Mary Magdalene and the other Mary -[3406.66 --> 3409.76] were sitting there opposite the tomb. -[3411.04 --> 3413.94] The only two disciples left -[3413.94 --> 3416.16] are these women. -[3418.24 --> 3419.92] And as I was preparing for Sunday, -[3421.48 --> 3422.50] I just want to say, -[3422.66 --> 3424.34] can we praise God -[3424.34 --> 3425.82] for faithful women? -[3425.82 --> 3428.38] It's the testimony -[3428.38 --> 3429.82] of faithful women -[3429.82 --> 3430.82] who serve -[3431.34 --> 3432.56] after everyone else -[3432.56 --> 3433.14] has run away. -[3434.60 --> 3435.98] It's faithful mothers -[3435.98 --> 3436.92] and aunts -[3436.92 --> 3437.70] and friends -[3437.70 --> 3439.16] who persevere -[3439.16 --> 3439.88] day in -[3439.88 --> 3441.02] and day out, -[3441.40 --> 3441.82] laboring -[3441.82 --> 3443.30] in often unsung -[3443.30 --> 3444.70] and unlauded ways, -[3444.78 --> 3446.00] and it's their faithfulness, -[3446.84 --> 3448.98] and because of their faithfulness, -[3449.08 --> 3449.72] these women -[3449.72 --> 3450.88] are called upon -[3450.88 --> 3451.66] by our Lord -[3451.66 --> 3452.96] to be heralds -[3452.96 --> 3453.96] of his coming back -[3453.96 --> 3454.46] from death. -[3454.46 --> 3456.18] Their perseverance -[3456.18 --> 3457.14] is rewarded -[3457.14 --> 3458.16] by being the first -[3458.16 --> 3459.44] to see Jesus. -[3459.94 --> 3460.64] And so they hear -[3460.64 --> 3461.68] the lovely words, -[3462.08 --> 3462.42] greetings. -[3464.02 --> 3464.74] Can you imagine -[3464.74 --> 3465.98] hearing those words? -[3466.12 --> 3466.50] Greetings. -[3466.78 --> 3468.76] Imagine hearing that voice. -[3469.16 --> 3469.50] Greetings. -[3469.82 --> 3471.40] Imagine seeing his feet -[3471.40 --> 3473.02] and clasping them, -[3473.44 --> 3474.50] seeing his face -[3474.50 --> 3476.08] and taking it in your hands. -[3476.20 --> 3476.72] Greetings, -[3476.94 --> 3477.34] he says. -[3477.58 --> 3478.94] Do not be afraid. -[3479.62 --> 3482.10] Go and tell my brothers. -[3482.10 --> 3485.10] These women disciples -[3485.10 --> 3486.68] who serve Jesus -[3486.68 --> 3489.24] are worth emulating. -[3489.94 --> 3491.00] They're worth celebrating. -[3491.66 --> 3492.86] And Matthew -[3492.86 --> 3494.66] is at pains -[3494.66 --> 3495.24] in the way -[3495.24 --> 3496.48] he writes this story -[3496.48 --> 3498.22] to show their inclusion, -[3498.38 --> 3499.22] to highlight it, -[3499.28 --> 3500.46] and the pride of place -[3500.46 --> 3501.34] that they have -[3501.34 --> 3501.90] in the story. -[3502.64 --> 3503.42] And I don't want you -[3503.42 --> 3503.88] to miss it. -[3503.92 --> 3504.74] I need you to hear it -[3504.74 --> 3505.52] and to note it -[3505.52 --> 3506.78] and to recognize -[3506.78 --> 3507.88] that we can emulate -[3507.88 --> 3510.04] these faithful women. -[3510.04 --> 3515.16] But in that, -[3516.36 --> 3517.54] there's also -[3517.54 --> 3520.72] a not-so-implicit -[3520.72 --> 3522.02] deprecation -[3522.02 --> 3523.16] going on -[3523.16 --> 3524.02] by Matthew -[3524.02 --> 3525.82] as he's constantly -[3525.82 --> 3526.90] drawing the eyes -[3526.90 --> 3527.60] of his readers -[3527.60 --> 3529.26] to see these women -[3529.26 --> 3529.88] present -[3529.88 --> 3531.62] and not the other disciples. -[3533.04 --> 3534.58] There's a criticism here -[3534.58 --> 3536.12] of the male disciples -[3536.12 --> 3537.18] and their failed -[3537.18 --> 3538.24] devotion. -[3538.24 --> 3540.44] Let me ask you, -[3540.50 --> 3541.18] where is Peter? -[3542.44 --> 3542.92] Peter, -[3543.12 --> 3543.96] who once said, -[3544.34 --> 3545.34] you are the Christ, -[3545.52 --> 3546.94] the Son of the living God. -[3547.36 --> 3547.62] Peter, -[3547.74 --> 3548.12] who said, -[3548.24 --> 3549.28] you have the words -[3549.28 --> 3550.24] of eternal life. -[3550.66 --> 3550.88] Peter, -[3551.02 --> 3552.48] to whom Jesus said, -[3552.84 --> 3553.62] on this rock -[3553.62 --> 3554.76] I will build my church -[3554.76 --> 3555.78] and the gates of hell -[3555.78 --> 3557.18] will not prevail over it. -[3557.34 --> 3558.14] Where is he now? -[3560.64 --> 3561.08] What we know -[3561.08 --> 3561.94] from Peter's story -[3561.94 --> 3562.82] is that he denied -[3562.82 --> 3563.88] Jesus three times -[3563.88 --> 3564.60] and he left him -[3564.60 --> 3565.52] in his time of need. -[3565.52 --> 3568.52] Where are James and John, -[3568.86 --> 3569.90] the sons of Zebedee, -[3570.64 --> 3571.50] who told Jesus -[3571.50 --> 3572.54] that they could -[3572.54 --> 3573.28] and they should -[3573.28 --> 3574.34] sit at his right -[3574.34 --> 3575.16] and left hand -[3575.16 --> 3576.28] when he comes into glory, -[3576.48 --> 3577.34] who confidently -[3577.34 --> 3578.12] told Jesus -[3578.12 --> 3579.10] that they could, -[3579.26 --> 3579.48] in fact, -[3579.56 --> 3580.26] drink the cup -[3580.26 --> 3581.36] that was reserved to him, -[3581.40 --> 3581.86] that they could, -[3582.02 --> 3582.20] in fact, -[3582.26 --> 3582.80] be baptized -[3582.80 --> 3583.90] with the baptism -[3583.90 --> 3584.74] of God's wrath -[3584.74 --> 3585.40] that was going to -[3585.40 --> 3586.14] pour out on him. -[3586.30 --> 3587.06] They confidently -[3587.06 --> 3587.88] stood in front of him -[3587.88 --> 3588.12] and said, -[3588.20 --> 3588.42] yes, -[3588.52 --> 3589.12] we can. -[3590.12 --> 3591.34] They stood with Peter -[3591.34 --> 3591.94] on the mountain -[3591.94 --> 3593.06] of the transfiguration -[3593.06 --> 3593.90] and they heard -[3593.90 --> 3594.90] God's voice say, -[3595.26 --> 3596.80] this is my son -[3596.80 --> 3598.02] whom I love -[3598.02 --> 3598.52] with him. -[3598.60 --> 3599.58] I am well pleased. -[3599.74 --> 3600.56] Listen to him. -[3601.32 --> 3602.14] They saw Moses -[3602.14 --> 3602.76] and Elijah -[3602.76 --> 3604.44] appear beside Jesus, -[3604.62 --> 3605.82] but where are they now? -[3607.56 --> 3608.50] They're not here. -[3609.92 --> 3610.74] You know who is? -[3611.54 --> 3612.38] Their mom. -[3614.30 --> 3614.98] There's something -[3614.98 --> 3615.62] going on there. -[3616.76 --> 3617.84] Maybe they're hiding. -[3618.74 --> 3619.80] They're probably scared. -[3621.16 --> 3621.34] You know, -[3621.34 --> 3622.24] as I was preparing -[3622.24 --> 3622.92] for today, -[3623.70 --> 3624.76] I wonder, -[3625.30 --> 3626.54] and it struck me, -[3627.46 --> 3628.86] I wonder if part -[3628.86 --> 3630.50] of what we're seeing here, -[3630.58 --> 3631.54] part of what Matthew -[3631.54 --> 3633.36] is drawing our eyes to -[3633.36 --> 3636.30] is that in this moment, -[3636.64 --> 3638.60] the defeat of the curse -[3638.60 --> 3639.76] that was first spoken -[3639.76 --> 3641.16] in the Garden of Eden -[3641.16 --> 3642.88] is being undone -[3642.88 --> 3644.56] by this new telling -[3644.56 --> 3645.26] of the story. -[3646.18 --> 3646.38] Right? -[3646.44 --> 3647.76] In the Garden of Eden, -[3648.18 --> 3649.84] Eve ate from the fruit -[3649.84 --> 3650.44] given to her -[3650.44 --> 3651.12] by the serpent -[3651.12 --> 3651.92] and then she gave it -[3651.92 --> 3652.32] to Adam -[3652.32 --> 3653.86] and then they both hid -[3653.86 --> 3654.88] when God came -[3654.88 --> 3655.98] walking through the garden -[3655.98 --> 3656.84] looking for them. -[3656.92 --> 3658.14] They hid in their shame -[3658.14 --> 3658.92] and they fled. -[3660.04 --> 3660.90] But now, -[3661.60 --> 3662.86] Eve's offspring, -[3663.64 --> 3663.96] Jesus, -[3664.22 --> 3664.84] has crushed -[3664.84 --> 3666.06] the head of the serpent. -[3667.08 --> 3667.94] Sin and death -[3667.94 --> 3668.64] have been defeated -[3668.64 --> 3669.38] by the true -[3669.38 --> 3670.44] and better Adam -[3670.44 --> 3671.58] and these women -[3671.58 --> 3672.94] refuse to hide. -[3674.28 --> 3674.44] Right? -[3674.48 --> 3675.72] Where the sons of Adam -[3675.72 --> 3676.84] failed and hid -[3676.84 --> 3678.20] because of the true -[3678.20 --> 3678.88] and better Adam, -[3679.02 --> 3680.86] these daughters of Eve -[3680.86 --> 3682.68] will not hide. -[3682.92 --> 3683.58] Not again. -[3683.92 --> 3684.84] Not this time. -[3686.10 --> 3687.22] Their faithfulness -[3687.22 --> 3688.30] and their devotion, -[3688.78 --> 3689.60] their commitment, -[3690.08 --> 3690.28] right, -[3690.34 --> 3691.70] is something for us -[3691.70 --> 3692.36] to emulate -[3692.36 --> 3693.92] but at the same time -[3693.92 --> 3696.00] it is heaping -[3696.00 --> 3696.80] burning coals -[3696.80 --> 3697.42] of conviction -[3697.42 --> 3698.24] on the heads -[3698.24 --> 3699.38] of the male disciples. -[3699.38 --> 3704.78] And I don't want -[3704.78 --> 3705.74] to overstate this -[3705.74 --> 3706.22] and I'm not going -[3706.22 --> 3706.66] to live here -[3706.66 --> 3707.40] for too long -[3707.40 --> 3708.98] but for us -[3708.98 --> 3710.36] men here today, -[3711.04 --> 3712.48] I can't help -[3712.48 --> 3712.86] but wonder -[3712.86 --> 3713.60] if maybe we need -[3713.60 --> 3714.20] to hear this. -[3717.14 --> 3717.54] Right? -[3717.58 --> 3718.00] I'm not going to, -[3718.18 --> 3718.64] like I said, -[3718.66 --> 3719.12] I'm not going to beat -[3719.12 --> 3719.62] this point -[3719.62 --> 3720.96] but statistically, -[3721.90 --> 3722.32] churches, -[3722.80 --> 3724.18] especially volunteer churches -[3724.18 --> 3724.90] like ours, -[3725.20 --> 3726.56] run on the backs -[3726.56 --> 3727.82] of the often quiet, -[3728.20 --> 3728.52] faithful, -[3728.52 --> 3729.40] devoted, -[3729.68 --> 3730.40] committed work -[3730.40 --> 3731.46] of women. -[3733.38 --> 3733.94] Statistically, -[3734.22 --> 3735.32] in most homes, -[3735.74 --> 3737.32] it is the woman -[3737.32 --> 3738.42] who does -[3738.42 --> 3739.34] faith formation. -[3740.80 --> 3740.94] Right? -[3740.94 --> 3741.60] Even in churches -[3741.60 --> 3742.46] with predominantly -[3742.46 --> 3743.50] male leadership, -[3744.10 --> 3745.50] the hardest demographic -[3745.50 --> 3746.44] to get involved -[3746.44 --> 3747.40] and to get connected -[3747.40 --> 3748.38] is men -[3748.38 --> 3749.38] between the ages -[3749.38 --> 3750.32] of 30 and 60. -[3752.04 --> 3752.28] Now, -[3752.68 --> 3753.82] don't hear what -[3753.82 --> 3754.32] I'm not saying. -[3754.90 --> 3755.82] I praise God -[3755.82 --> 3756.86] for the reality -[3756.86 --> 3757.88] that those statistics -[3757.88 --> 3758.88] don't bear themselves -[3758.88 --> 3760.12] out in our congregation -[3760.12 --> 3760.98] in the same way -[3760.98 --> 3761.46] as they do -[3761.46 --> 3762.08] in other places. -[3764.60 --> 3765.32] And yet, -[3765.88 --> 3767.42] don't just dismiss -[3767.42 --> 3768.16] what I said either. -[3769.30 --> 3769.70] Now, -[3769.70 --> 3770.04] I know there's -[3770.04 --> 3770.86] all sorts of reasons, -[3771.20 --> 3771.74] there's all sorts -[3771.74 --> 3772.38] of expectations, -[3772.76 --> 3773.34] there's all sorts -[3773.34 --> 3773.96] of excuses, -[3774.88 --> 3776.18] but I just wonder -[3776.18 --> 3776.98] if maybe -[3776.98 --> 3778.88] as we are rehearsing -[3778.88 --> 3779.70] this story, -[3780.28 --> 3781.88] if as men -[3781.88 --> 3783.58] in the church -[3783.58 --> 3784.56] and in this church, -[3784.56 --> 3785.44] the reason -[3785.44 --> 3786.34] for Matthew's -[3786.34 --> 3787.16] pointing that out, -[3787.26 --> 3787.90] we might still -[3787.90 --> 3788.70] need to hear today. -[3789.82 --> 3790.50] But I'll just -[3790.50 --> 3791.14] leave that with you -[3791.14 --> 3792.48] to ruminate on -[3792.48 --> 3793.60] for a moment. -[3795.08 --> 3796.34] I also think -[3796.34 --> 3797.50] there's another reason -[3797.50 --> 3798.42] why Matthew -[3798.42 --> 3800.12] labors to mention -[3800.12 --> 3801.90] all the women -[3801.90 --> 3802.78] who are present -[3802.78 --> 3804.56] and that it is -[3804.56 --> 3805.32] two women -[3805.32 --> 3806.14] to whom -[3806.14 --> 3807.24] Jesus first appears. -[3808.20 --> 3809.02] And this is where -[3809.02 --> 3809.34] we'll spend -[3809.34 --> 3810.04] the rest of our time. -[3810.84 --> 3811.76] I think Matthew -[3811.76 --> 3812.52] is at pains -[3812.52 --> 3813.68] to make this point -[3813.68 --> 3815.16] because that's -[3815.16 --> 3816.46] what actually happened. -[3818.30 --> 3819.78] Quite matter-of-factly, -[3820.16 --> 3821.46] Matthew is concerned -[3821.46 --> 3822.84] with writing history. -[3823.88 --> 3824.38] Now, -[3824.44 --> 3824.94] it's history -[3824.94 --> 3826.52] with a theological focus, -[3826.64 --> 3827.10] absolutely, -[3827.40 --> 3828.46] but it's still history. -[3829.64 --> 3830.72] And one of the amazing -[3830.72 --> 3832.00] things about Christianity -[3832.00 --> 3835.36] is our historical rootedness. -[3835.48 --> 3837.18] It is the groundedness -[3837.18 --> 3838.16] of our faith -[3838.16 --> 3840.22] in a story, -[3840.40 --> 3841.50] in history. -[3841.50 --> 3842.88] what we call -[3842.88 --> 3843.32] the Bible. -[3844.48 --> 3844.62] So, -[3844.70 --> 3845.52] just quickly, -[3845.68 --> 3846.08] to date, -[3846.76 --> 3847.70] there has been -[3847.70 --> 3848.76] zero -[3848.76 --> 3850.50] archaeological findings -[3850.50 --> 3851.70] that contradict -[3851.70 --> 3852.62] what the Bible -[3852.62 --> 3853.18] declares -[3853.18 --> 3853.78] has happened. -[3855.02 --> 3855.20] Now, -[3855.22 --> 3855.52] there's been -[3855.52 --> 3856.66] periods of time -[3856.66 --> 3857.38] where there -[3857.38 --> 3858.96] seems to be -[3858.96 --> 3859.60] an absence -[3859.60 --> 3860.84] of evidence, -[3861.00 --> 3861.82] but the absence -[3861.82 --> 3862.30] of evidence -[3862.30 --> 3863.10] is not the evidence -[3863.10 --> 3863.56] of absence. -[3864.04 --> 3865.38] There seems to be -[3865.38 --> 3866.94] some missing -[3866.94 --> 3867.94] stories, -[3868.22 --> 3868.62] and yet, -[3868.72 --> 3869.38] over time, -[3869.50 --> 3869.92] those things -[3869.92 --> 3870.44] are found. -[3871.50 --> 3872.62] Even when there's -[3872.62 --> 3874.16] confusion about something, -[3874.42 --> 3875.16] and there doesn't seem -[3875.16 --> 3875.86] to be archaeological -[3875.86 --> 3877.18] evidence to support it, -[3877.44 --> 3878.68] more often than not, -[3879.02 --> 3879.60] it's found. -[3880.60 --> 3881.30] This has happened -[3881.30 --> 3882.66] over and over and over, -[3882.78 --> 3883.86] especially in the last -[3883.86 --> 3884.96] 300 years -[3884.96 --> 3885.84] as the science -[3885.84 --> 3886.60] of archaeology -[3886.60 --> 3887.20] has become -[3887.20 --> 3888.20] more and more -[3888.20 --> 3888.92] predominant. -[3889.92 --> 3890.90] Point is, -[3891.74 --> 3892.46] Matthew -[3892.46 --> 3895.34] tells this story -[3895.34 --> 3897.52] in this way -[3897.52 --> 3899.30] because this is -[3899.30 --> 3900.32] how it actually -[3900.32 --> 3900.82] happened. -[3901.38 --> 3902.36] And he's more -[3902.36 --> 3903.08] concerned -[3903.08 --> 3904.38] with the truth -[3904.38 --> 3905.48] of the event -[3905.48 --> 3906.46] than with -[3906.46 --> 3907.52] himself looking -[3907.52 --> 3908.52] good or with -[3908.52 --> 3909.12] him making -[3909.12 --> 3909.66] the other -[3909.66 --> 3910.20] disciples -[3910.20 --> 3911.48] look good. -[3912.64 --> 3913.58] And that's -[3913.58 --> 3914.52] really important -[3914.52 --> 3915.50] for us to hear. -[3916.28 --> 3917.36] Because sometimes -[3917.36 --> 3917.76] people, -[3917.88 --> 3918.64] very intelligent -[3918.64 --> 3920.48] and otherwise -[3920.48 --> 3921.30] well-meaning -[3921.30 --> 3921.78] people, -[3921.78 --> 3923.90] when wanting -[3923.90 --> 3925.00] to disprove -[3925.00 --> 3925.90] Christianity, -[3926.54 --> 3927.56] say something -[3927.56 --> 3928.24] like, -[3928.58 --> 3929.38] the gospel -[3929.38 --> 3930.72] writers wrote -[3930.72 --> 3931.34] the things -[3931.34 --> 3932.00] that they did -[3932.00 --> 3932.60] in the ways -[3932.60 --> 3933.24] that they did -[3933.24 --> 3934.62] to bolster -[3934.62 --> 3935.44] their position -[3935.44 --> 3936.28] in society. -[3937.10 --> 3937.22] Right? -[3937.22 --> 3938.56] They made up -[3938.56 --> 3939.58] stories to -[3939.58 --> 3940.40] undergird -[3940.40 --> 3941.18] their social -[3941.18 --> 3941.74] power. -[3943.96 --> 3944.20] Right? -[3944.26 --> 3944.84] That the early -[3944.84 --> 3945.62] church was -[3945.62 --> 3947.30] garnering influence -[3947.30 --> 3948.20] in society -[3948.20 --> 3948.76] and so -[3948.76 --> 3949.62] what they did -[3949.62 --> 3950.54] is they created -[3950.54 --> 3951.38] these myths -[3951.38 --> 3952.22] to support -[3952.22 --> 3953.42] their new -[3953.42 --> 3954.08] reality. -[3955.36 --> 3955.82] In short, -[3955.94 --> 3956.34] the argument -[3956.34 --> 3956.62] goes, -[3956.84 --> 3957.50] they made up -[3957.50 --> 3958.26] stories of -[3958.26 --> 3959.08] great power -[3959.08 --> 3960.06] and of people -[3960.06 --> 3960.66] with great -[3960.66 --> 3961.38] power and -[3961.38 --> 3962.02] influence -[3962.02 --> 3962.94] of resurrection -[3962.94 --> 3964.24] in order to -[3964.24 --> 3964.86] keep their -[3964.86 --> 3965.68] social capital, -[3966.02 --> 3966.46] in order to -[3966.46 --> 3966.90] keep their -[3966.90 --> 3967.54] influence. -[3969.28 --> 3969.44] And -[3969.44 --> 3971.38] charitably, -[3971.54 --> 3971.68] right, -[3971.74 --> 3972.78] to be fair, -[3973.26 --> 3974.20] by the -[3974.20 --> 3975.10] analogy of -[3975.10 --> 3975.98] human experience, -[3976.20 --> 3976.86] this is a -[3976.86 --> 3977.82] reasonable argument. -[3979.04 --> 3979.54] People do -[3979.54 --> 3979.94] this. -[3980.48 --> 3980.96] We've seen -[3980.96 --> 3981.48] people do -[3981.48 --> 3982.52] this regularly -[3982.52 --> 3983.16] throughout -[3983.16 --> 3983.64] history. -[3985.40 --> 3986.08] However, -[3986.76 --> 3988.40] I don't -[3988.40 --> 3988.86] think that's -[3988.86 --> 3989.48] the case -[3989.48 --> 3990.74] in this -[3990.74 --> 3991.74] story. -[3992.00 --> 3992.28] I don't -[3992.28 --> 3992.60] think that's -[3992.60 --> 3993.12] the case -[3993.12 --> 3994.18] in this -[3994.18 --> 3994.58] account. -[3994.72 --> 3995.20] And for -[3995.20 --> 3995.64] at least -[3995.64 --> 3996.40] two reasons, -[3996.50 --> 3996.76] there are -[3996.76 --> 3996.98] more, -[3997.06 --> 3997.28] but I'll -[3997.28 --> 3997.84] focus on -[3997.84 --> 3998.18] two this -[3998.18 --> 3998.40] morning. -[3999.62 --> 4000.18] First, -[4001.46 --> 4002.86] the Gospels -[4002.86 --> 4003.82] were written -[4003.82 --> 4005.44] probably sometime -[4005.44 --> 4006.24] between -[4006.24 --> 4006.80] A.D. -[4006.90 --> 4007.58] 60 and -[4007.58 --> 4008.06] A.D. -[4008.06 --> 4008.66] 80, -[4008.86 --> 4009.36] in the case -[4009.36 --> 4009.84] of Matthew, -[4010.10 --> 4010.30] Mark, -[4010.42 --> 4011.10] and Luke, -[4011.48 --> 4012.40] and John -[4012.40 --> 4012.90] sometime -[4012.90 --> 4013.98] probably between -[4013.98 --> 4014.26] A.D. -[4014.34 --> 4015.06] 90 and -[4015.06 --> 4015.44] 100. -[4016.36 --> 4016.86] And to be -[4016.86 --> 4017.18] clear, -[4018.02 --> 4019.42] this is long -[4019.42 --> 4020.96] before Christians -[4020.96 --> 4021.76] or Christian -[4021.76 --> 4022.72] groups have -[4022.72 --> 4024.82] any social -[4024.82 --> 4026.16] influence or -[4026.16 --> 4027.46] any power. -[4028.50 --> 4029.38] This is when -[4029.38 --> 4029.90] they're still -[4029.90 --> 4030.76] being killed -[4030.76 --> 4031.94] just for the -[4031.94 --> 4033.20] name Christian. -[4035.06 --> 4035.98] The telling -[4035.98 --> 4036.42] of these -[4036.42 --> 4037.24] stories doesn't -[4037.24 --> 4037.94] protect their -[4037.94 --> 4038.44] power. -[4038.86 --> 4039.26] The telling -[4039.26 --> 4039.64] of these -[4039.64 --> 4040.84] stories actually -[4040.84 --> 4041.44] brings them -[4041.44 --> 4042.34] into direct -[4042.34 --> 4043.08] and deadly -[4043.08 --> 4044.28] conflict with -[4044.28 --> 4044.90] the power of -[4044.90 --> 4045.24] the day, -[4045.32 --> 4045.62] with the -[4045.62 --> 4046.20] Roman Empire. -[4046.20 --> 4046.28] power. -[4048.36 --> 4049.22] The second -[4049.22 --> 4050.24] problem with -[4050.24 --> 4051.32] this argument -[4051.32 --> 4052.76] is that if -[4052.76 --> 4053.68] you are writing -[4053.68 --> 4054.96] these stories -[4054.96 --> 4055.62] to gain -[4055.62 --> 4056.42] influence or -[4056.42 --> 4056.80] to keep -[4056.80 --> 4057.70] any power, -[4058.54 --> 4059.42] you would -[4059.42 --> 4060.28] probably make -[4060.28 --> 4060.70] your main -[4060.70 --> 4062.26] characters come -[4062.26 --> 4062.74] out better -[4062.74 --> 4063.68] than they do. -[4064.60 --> 4065.04] If you're -[4065.04 --> 4065.44] trying to -[4065.44 --> 4066.06] fabricate a -[4066.06 --> 4066.98] story about -[4066.98 --> 4067.54] a rabbi -[4067.54 --> 4067.96] who was -[4067.96 --> 4068.56] resurrected, -[4068.88 --> 4069.34] for instance, -[4069.46 --> 4070.06] you simply -[4070.06 --> 4070.74] wouldn't use -[4070.74 --> 4071.50] women as -[4071.50 --> 4072.84] the eyewitnesses. -[4073.80 --> 4074.32] In both -[4074.32 --> 4075.22] Jewish and -[4075.22 --> 4076.14] Roman legal -[4076.14 --> 4076.80] traditions, -[4077.30 --> 4078.14] a testimony -[4078.14 --> 4079.00] is only -[4079.00 --> 4079.74] valid if -[4079.74 --> 4080.26] it's brought -[4080.26 --> 4080.98] forward by -[4080.98 --> 4082.22] two people, -[4082.38 --> 4082.78] by two -[4082.78 --> 4083.62] eyewitnesses. -[4083.82 --> 4084.12] Now Matthew -[4084.12 --> 4084.54] got that -[4084.54 --> 4085.02] part right, -[4085.86 --> 4087.68] but in -[4087.68 --> 4088.02] the law -[4088.02 --> 4088.36] court, -[4089.14 --> 4090.28] women don't -[4090.28 --> 4091.00] count. -[4092.00 --> 4092.46] They can't -[4092.46 --> 4092.96] be witnesses. -[4093.44 --> 4093.92] They aren't -[4093.92 --> 4094.48] reliable, -[4094.84 --> 4095.54] so we are -[4095.54 --> 4095.80] told. -[4096.50 --> 4097.02] It's not my -[4097.02 --> 4097.30] words, -[4097.80 --> 4098.32] it's their -[4098.32 --> 4098.58] words. -[4100.00 --> 4100.38] In fact, -[4100.66 --> 4101.70] non-Jewish -[4101.70 --> 4103.04] slaves who -[4103.04 --> 4103.70] are men -[4103.70 --> 4104.92] ranked higher -[4104.92 --> 4105.72] in the law -[4105.72 --> 4106.68] court than -[4106.68 --> 4107.14] any women -[4107.14 --> 4107.38] did. -[4108.86 --> 4109.34] And if -[4109.34 --> 4110.24] Matthew is -[4110.24 --> 4110.90] making up -[4110.90 --> 4111.74] this story, -[4111.96 --> 4112.64] it would be -[4112.64 --> 4114.00] ludicrous for -[4114.00 --> 4114.72] him to name -[4114.72 --> 4115.80] a woman as -[4115.80 --> 4116.16] a first -[4116.16 --> 4116.74] eyewitness, -[4117.70 --> 4119.78] unless Matthew -[4119.78 --> 4120.54] is concerned -[4120.54 --> 4121.04] with getting -[4121.04 --> 4121.84] it right, -[4122.86 --> 4124.00] unless Matthew's -[4124.00 --> 4125.16] priority is -[4125.16 --> 4126.80] telling history. -[4126.80 --> 4134.64] women are -[4134.64 --> 4135.20] the first -[4135.20 --> 4136.86] eyewitnesses, -[4137.14 --> 4138.54] precisely because -[4138.54 --> 4139.52] such an idea -[4139.52 --> 4139.98] would be -[4139.98 --> 4140.70] incredulous -[4140.70 --> 4141.46] unless it -[4141.46 --> 4142.00] were true, -[4142.54 --> 4143.74] actually makes -[4143.74 --> 4144.66] their inclusion -[4144.66 --> 4145.86] in the story -[4145.86 --> 4147.00] an argument -[4147.00 --> 4148.32] in favor of -[4148.32 --> 4149.06] the resurrection -[4149.06 --> 4150.12] actually -[4150.12 --> 4151.04] happening. -[4151.04 --> 4154.44] now, -[4154.80 --> 4156.30] if you are -[4156.30 --> 4156.94] skeptical, -[4157.66 --> 4157.88] right, -[4158.40 --> 4159.26] that's fair, -[4159.50 --> 4160.14] this is a lot, -[4160.30 --> 4160.72] I'll give you -[4160.72 --> 4160.96] that, -[4161.96 --> 4162.68] but at the -[4162.68 --> 4163.58] very least, -[4163.72 --> 4164.28] it seems to -[4164.28 --> 4164.48] me, -[4165.26 --> 4165.94] you have to -[4165.94 --> 4166.90] concede that -[4166.90 --> 4167.80] Mary and -[4167.80 --> 4168.22] the other -[4168.22 --> 4168.60] Mary, -[4169.04 --> 4169.52] that eventually -[4169.52 --> 4170.20] the rest of -[4170.20 --> 4170.76] the disciples, -[4171.28 --> 4171.96] eventually the -[4171.96 --> 4173.20] other eyewitnesses, -[4173.36 --> 4174.18] we can read in -[4174.18 --> 4175.04] Paul that at -[4175.04 --> 4176.72] one time there -[4176.72 --> 4177.12] was up to -[4177.12 --> 4178.58] 500 eyewitnesses -[4178.58 --> 4179.22] in a single -[4179.22 --> 4179.74] encounter, -[4179.74 --> 4180.48] all who saw -[4180.48 --> 4181.10] the resurrected -[4181.10 --> 4181.62] Jesus, -[4182.28 --> 4182.40] right, -[4182.44 --> 4183.08] that Paul, -[4183.44 --> 4184.26] who had a -[4184.26 --> 4185.04] vision of him -[4185.04 --> 4185.98] on the Damascus -[4185.98 --> 4186.24] road, -[4186.32 --> 4186.82] you have to -[4186.82 --> 4187.52] concede at -[4187.52 --> 4188.64] the very least -[4188.64 --> 4189.60] that they -[4189.60 --> 4190.60] believed that -[4190.60 --> 4191.34] they saw, -[4191.74 --> 4192.16] talked, -[4192.34 --> 4193.16] and ate with -[4193.16 --> 4193.84] the resurrected -[4193.84 --> 4194.76] Jesus. -[4196.48 --> 4197.04] Right, -[4197.08 --> 4197.78] as miraculous -[4197.78 --> 4199.14] as this story -[4199.14 --> 4199.80] is, -[4200.34 --> 4201.32] on balance, -[4201.76 --> 4202.50] these people -[4202.50 --> 4203.48] really believed -[4203.48 --> 4204.02] it's true. -[4205.26 --> 4205.94] And that also -[4205.94 --> 4206.62] means on -[4206.62 --> 4207.24] balance, -[4207.44 --> 4208.42] it is not -[4208.42 --> 4209.36] irrational -[4209.36 --> 4210.32] for you -[4210.32 --> 4211.02] and I -[4211.02 --> 4211.92] to also -[4211.92 --> 4212.84] believe -[4212.84 --> 4213.48] that it's -[4213.48 --> 4213.72] true. -[4214.96 --> 4215.08] Right, -[4215.14 --> 4215.82] believing in -[4215.82 --> 4216.30] the resurrection -[4216.30 --> 4217.04] is the -[4217.04 --> 4217.94] cogent and -[4217.94 --> 4218.42] compelling -[4218.42 --> 4219.12] conclusion -[4219.12 --> 4219.96] of the -[4219.96 --> 4220.48] gospels, -[4220.56 --> 4220.80] of the -[4220.80 --> 4221.32] claims of -[4221.32 --> 4221.64] Jesus, -[4221.64 --> 4222.28] of the -[4222.28 --> 4222.70] revelation -[4222.70 --> 4223.00] of the -[4223.00 --> 4223.30] Bible. -[4224.78 --> 4225.06] Right, -[4225.12 --> 4225.94] our shared -[4225.94 --> 4226.70] belief in -[4226.70 --> 4227.34] the resurrection -[4227.34 --> 4228.60] rests on -[4228.60 --> 4229.46] history, -[4229.90 --> 4230.56] it rests on -[4230.56 --> 4231.50] evidence and -[4231.50 --> 4231.86] reason, -[4232.00 --> 4232.48] and it is -[4232.48 --> 4233.04] logical. -[4234.48 --> 4235.50] Our Christian -[4235.50 --> 4236.08] beliefs, -[4236.62 --> 4237.60] even of the -[4237.60 --> 4238.18] resurrection, -[4238.56 --> 4239.84] are warranted -[4239.84 --> 4240.74] based on the -[4240.74 --> 4241.46] evidence given. -[4242.14 --> 4242.74] The resurrection -[4242.74 --> 4243.36] is, -[4243.36 --> 4243.90] first, -[4244.24 --> 4245.16] a historical -[4245.16 --> 4245.96] claim. -[4248.16 --> 4248.42] Now, -[4249.42 --> 4251.10] make sure you -[4251.10 --> 4251.64] hear this next -[4251.64 --> 4251.88] part. -[4253.16 --> 4253.96] The resurrection -[4253.96 --> 4254.88] is a historical -[4254.88 --> 4255.28] claim, -[4256.28 --> 4257.84] and yet, -[4258.20 --> 4259.16] that the -[4259.16 --> 4259.68] resurrection -[4259.68 --> 4261.52] benefits me. -[4262.16 --> 4263.04] That the -[4263.04 --> 4264.04] resurrection is -[4264.04 --> 4264.76] God's victory -[4264.76 --> 4265.56] over sin -[4265.56 --> 4266.16] and death. -[4266.54 --> 4268.12] That is a -[4268.12 --> 4268.76] theological -[4268.76 --> 4271.00] claim about -[4271.00 --> 4271.62] a historical -[4271.62 --> 4272.04] event. -[4273.36 --> 4274.18] And that's -[4274.18 --> 4274.56] where I want -[4274.56 --> 4275.02] to spend -[4275.02 --> 4275.92] the rest of -[4275.92 --> 4276.30] our time, -[4276.36 --> 4276.68] where I will -[4276.68 --> 4277.36] end this -[4277.36 --> 4277.62] morning, -[4277.62 --> 4277.98] with the -[4277.98 --> 4278.78] theological -[4278.78 --> 4279.72] implications -[4279.72 --> 4281.18] for the -[4281.18 --> 4281.90] historical -[4281.90 --> 4283.78] event that -[4283.78 --> 4284.44] actually took -[4284.44 --> 4284.94] place, -[4285.12 --> 4285.90] that is the -[4285.90 --> 4286.32] resurrection -[4286.32 --> 4287.66] of Jesus. -[4289.26 --> 4290.22] After greeting -[4290.22 --> 4290.62] them, -[4291.04 --> 4291.66] Jesus said -[4291.66 --> 4292.06] to the -[4292.06 --> 4292.28] women, -[4292.28 --> 4293.36] do not -[4293.36 --> 4294.74] be afraid. -[4296.06 --> 4296.56] This is the -[4296.56 --> 4297.42] first theological -[4297.42 --> 4298.46] claim for -[4298.46 --> 4299.02] Resurrection -[4299.02 --> 4299.56] Sunday. -[4300.50 --> 4301.20] Since the -[4301.20 --> 4302.20] resurrection is -[4302.20 --> 4302.54] true, -[4302.72 --> 4303.42] since God -[4303.42 --> 4304.00] is not -[4304.00 --> 4304.38] dead, -[4304.82 --> 4305.80] we fear -[4305.80 --> 4306.92] nothing. -[4308.42 --> 4309.02] Nothing. -[4309.28 --> 4310.06] Not even -[4310.06 --> 4311.14] death itself -[4311.14 --> 4312.08] has a sting -[4312.08 --> 4312.94] anymore. -[4314.10 --> 4314.42] And whether -[4314.42 --> 4314.78] it's the -[4314.78 --> 4315.42] threat of -[4315.42 --> 4316.30] death and -[4316.30 --> 4316.84] persecution, -[4317.14 --> 4317.46] or the -[4317.46 --> 4318.22] imminence of -[4318.22 --> 4319.02] death because -[4319.02 --> 4319.98] of disease or -[4319.98 --> 4320.64] illness or -[4320.64 --> 4321.00] age, -[4321.28 --> 4322.04] the resurrection -[4322.04 --> 4323.74] transforms your -[4323.74 --> 4324.30] and my -[4324.30 --> 4325.66] experience of -[4325.66 --> 4326.56] death and -[4326.56 --> 4326.98] dying. -[4328.20 --> 4329.56] In the -[4329.56 --> 4329.88] Bible, -[4330.28 --> 4330.82] death is -[4330.82 --> 4331.92] described as -[4331.92 --> 4332.70] the last -[4332.70 --> 4333.52] and great -[4333.52 --> 4334.30] enemy, -[4334.60 --> 4335.38] and if that -[4335.38 --> 4336.04] enemy is -[4336.04 --> 4336.48] defeated, -[4337.54 --> 4338.16] what else in -[4338.16 --> 4338.72] life do you -[4338.72 --> 4339.10] need to be -[4339.10 --> 4339.68] afraid of? -[4340.88 --> 4341.44] On the -[4341.44 --> 4342.10] cross and -[4342.10 --> 4342.64] in the -[4342.64 --> 4343.14] resurrection, -[4343.40 --> 4344.16] Jesus crushed -[4344.16 --> 4344.88] the head of -[4344.88 --> 4345.40] the serpent, -[4345.72 --> 4346.22] that great -[4346.22 --> 4346.88] adversary, -[4347.14 --> 4347.68] the Satan, -[4347.84 --> 4348.42] the deceiver, -[4348.64 --> 4349.32] and if he -[4349.32 --> 4349.98] has been -[4349.98 --> 4350.62] defeated, -[4350.98 --> 4351.58] what is -[4351.58 --> 4352.16] left for -[4352.16 --> 4352.60] you to -[4352.60 --> 4353.08] be afraid -[4353.08 --> 4353.38] of? -[4355.64 --> 4356.06] And remember, -[4356.14 --> 4356.56] this is what we -[4356.56 --> 4357.28] rehearse every -[4357.28 --> 4358.10] single Sunday, -[4358.32 --> 4358.96] so when I'm -[4358.96 --> 4359.70] standing up here -[4359.70 --> 4360.18] at the end of -[4360.18 --> 4360.86] our services on -[4360.86 --> 4361.32] Sunday and I -[4361.32 --> 4361.52] say, -[4361.76 --> 4362.34] do not be -[4362.34 --> 4362.82] afraid, -[4363.82 --> 4364.44] it's because -[4364.44 --> 4365.84] of this. -[4367.20 --> 4367.86] It's because -[4367.86 --> 4368.14] of the -[4368.14 --> 4368.66] resurrection. -[4370.40 --> 4371.10] Right here is -[4371.10 --> 4371.38] what the -[4371.38 --> 4372.06] resurrection in -[4372.06 --> 4372.60] the cross -[4372.60 --> 4373.44] means for the -[4373.44 --> 4373.88] Christian. -[4375.00 --> 4375.96] The worst -[4375.96 --> 4376.92] thing that -[4376.92 --> 4377.48] could ever -[4377.48 --> 4378.12] happen to -[4378.12 --> 4379.36] us already -[4379.36 --> 4379.82] has. -[4381.08 --> 4381.72] Let me say -[4381.72 --> 4381.96] that again, -[4382.02 --> 4382.46] the worst -[4382.46 --> 4382.88] thing that -[4382.88 --> 4383.80] could ever -[4383.80 --> 4384.26] happen to -[4384.26 --> 4385.06] us already -[4385.06 --> 4385.86] has because -[4385.86 --> 4387.10] we died -[4387.10 --> 4387.78] with Christ. -[4389.04 --> 4389.70] And then -[4389.70 --> 4390.12] also, -[4390.32 --> 4390.72] the best -[4390.72 --> 4391.28] thing that -[4391.28 --> 4391.76] could ever -[4391.76 --> 4392.34] happen to -[4392.34 --> 4393.84] us already -[4393.84 --> 4395.76] has because -[4395.76 --> 4396.62] we have been -[4396.62 --> 4397.82] raised with -[4397.82 --> 4398.44] him. -[4400.34 --> 4401.22] Paul says -[4401.22 --> 4402.04] in Romans 6 -[4402.04 --> 4402.52] and in -[4402.52 --> 4403.18] Colossians 2, -[4403.26 --> 4403.58] he says, -[4403.98 --> 4404.82] we died -[4404.82 --> 4405.82] with Christ. -[4405.82 --> 4405.90] Christ. -[4406.90 --> 4407.20] And so -[4407.20 --> 4407.40] in the -[4407.40 --> 4408.24] great exchange -[4408.24 --> 4408.64] of the -[4408.64 --> 4408.96] gospel, -[4409.14 --> 4409.56] we have -[4409.56 --> 4410.28] died with -[4410.28 --> 4410.74] Christ. -[4411.14 --> 4411.88] The punishment -[4411.88 --> 4412.80] that he paid -[4412.80 --> 4413.58] that was on -[4413.58 --> 4414.42] him for our -[4414.42 --> 4415.84] sins is -[4415.84 --> 4417.58] union with -[4417.58 --> 4418.30] us in -[4418.30 --> 4420.90] becoming sin -[4420.90 --> 4421.46] for us. -[4421.58 --> 4422.34] It means that -[4422.34 --> 4422.80] the death -[4422.80 --> 4423.94] that he died -[4423.94 --> 4424.74] for us -[4424.74 --> 4425.88] and in the -[4425.88 --> 4426.46] death that -[4426.46 --> 4427.12] he died, -[4427.36 --> 4428.16] we died -[4428.16 --> 4429.92] with him. -[4431.14 --> 4431.96] This is the -[4431.96 --> 4432.74] power of the -[4432.74 --> 4433.84] cross and of -[4433.84 --> 4434.54] the resurrection, -[4434.54 --> 4435.54] of our -[4435.54 --> 4436.30] union by -[4436.30 --> 4437.24] grace through -[4437.24 --> 4438.36] faith with -[4438.36 --> 4439.50] Jesus Christ. -[4439.94 --> 4440.52] Death no -[4440.52 --> 4441.34] longer has -[4441.34 --> 4442.94] mastery over -[4442.94 --> 4443.68] you because -[4443.68 --> 4444.50] of Christ. -[4445.54 --> 4446.26] We've already -[4446.26 --> 4446.82] died it. -[4447.54 --> 4448.14] We've already -[4448.14 --> 4448.96] died to it. -[4449.90 --> 4450.64] Death holds -[4450.64 --> 4451.54] no fear -[4451.54 --> 4452.66] because for -[4452.66 --> 4453.40] those of us -[4453.40 --> 4454.20] who die, -[4454.34 --> 4454.88] we go to -[4454.88 --> 4455.38] be with -[4455.38 --> 4455.90] Christ. -[4457.12 --> 4457.92] The spiritual -[4457.92 --> 4458.70] union we -[4458.70 --> 4459.36] have with -[4459.36 --> 4460.42] him becomes -[4460.42 --> 4461.12] a material -[4461.12 --> 4461.64] union. -[4462.48 --> 4462.78] And so -[4462.78 --> 4463.14] there's nothing -[4463.14 --> 4463.72] to be afraid -[4463.72 --> 4464.02] of. -[4465.16 --> 4465.98] The worst -[4465.98 --> 4466.40] thing that -[4466.40 --> 4466.72] could ever -[4466.72 --> 4467.24] happen to -[4467.24 --> 4467.92] us already -[4467.92 --> 4468.40] has. -[4469.34 --> 4469.58] And so -[4469.58 --> 4469.88] you don't -[4469.88 --> 4470.28] need to be -[4470.28 --> 4470.84] afraid of -[4470.84 --> 4471.70] death or -[4471.70 --> 4472.56] dying or -[4472.56 --> 4473.46] anything else -[4473.46 --> 4474.08] in all of -[4474.08 --> 4474.66] creation -[4474.66 --> 4476.64] because he's -[4476.64 --> 4477.02] done it. -[4477.66 --> 4478.28] That's the -[4478.28 --> 4478.94] power of the -[4478.94 --> 4479.98] cross because -[4479.98 --> 4480.46] of the -[4480.46 --> 4480.96] resurrection. -[4482.72 --> 4483.36] But there's -[4483.36 --> 4483.70] more. -[4484.52 --> 4485.20] Paul goes on -[4485.20 --> 4485.82] in Romans 6. -[4485.90 --> 4486.10] He says, -[4486.10 --> 4486.74] For we, -[4487.04 --> 4487.56] if we have -[4487.56 --> 4488.20] been united -[4488.20 --> 4488.74] with him -[4488.74 --> 4489.28] in a death -[4489.28 --> 4489.96] like his, -[4490.08 --> 4490.52] we will -[4490.52 --> 4491.34] certainly also -[4491.34 --> 4492.02] be united -[4492.02 --> 4492.70] with him -[4492.70 --> 4492.98] in a -[4492.98 --> 4493.32] resurrection -[4493.32 --> 4494.12] like his. -[4494.52 --> 4494.92] Or he -[4494.92 --> 4495.34] says in -[4495.34 --> 4495.92] Colossians, -[4496.36 --> 4497.10] Since then -[4497.10 --> 4497.96] you have -[4497.96 --> 4498.46] been, -[4498.50 --> 4499.10] notice the -[4499.10 --> 4499.50] tense of -[4499.50 --> 4499.68] that, -[4499.78 --> 4500.28] you have -[4500.28 --> 4501.52] been raised -[4501.52 --> 4502.22] with Christ. -[4502.90 --> 4503.30] It's already -[4503.30 --> 4505.00] happened in -[4505.00 --> 4505.58] the spiritual -[4505.58 --> 4506.94] truth of this. -[4507.06 --> 4507.52] Set your -[4507.52 --> 4508.14] hearts on -[4508.14 --> 4509.02] things above -[4509.02 --> 4509.74] where Christ -[4509.74 --> 4510.12] is, -[4510.40 --> 4511.04] seated at -[4511.04 --> 4511.40] the right -[4511.40 --> 4511.84] hand of -[4511.84 --> 4512.18] God. -[4512.80 --> 4513.36] You have -[4513.36 --> 4514.14] been raised. -[4514.14 --> 4515.04] He makes -[4515.04 --> 4515.38] the same -[4515.38 --> 4516.04] point in -[4516.04 --> 4516.52] Ephesians. -[4516.84 --> 4517.30] And God -[4517.30 --> 4518.22] raised us -[4518.22 --> 4518.88] up with -[4518.88 --> 4519.56] Christ and -[4519.56 --> 4520.18] seated us -[4520.18 --> 4520.78] with him -[4520.78 --> 4521.26] in the -[4521.26 --> 4522.04] heavenly realms -[4522.04 --> 4523.52] in Jesus. -[4524.16 --> 4525.08] In some -[4525.08 --> 4525.52] way, -[4525.68 --> 4525.92] yes, -[4526.02 --> 4526.30] in a -[4526.30 --> 4526.68] spiritual -[4526.68 --> 4527.20] way, -[4527.32 --> 4527.58] but a -[4527.58 --> 4528.12] very real -[4528.12 --> 4528.42] way, -[4528.50 --> 4528.90] nonetheless, -[4529.42 --> 4529.94] you are -[4529.94 --> 4530.62] already -[4530.62 --> 4531.32] raised -[4531.32 --> 4531.96] with -[4531.96 --> 4532.56] Christ. -[4533.84 --> 4534.40] That's -[4534.40 --> 4534.66] what it -[4534.66 --> 4535.12] means when -[4535.12 --> 4535.36] I say -[4535.36 --> 4535.64] that the -[4535.64 --> 4536.26] best thing -[4536.26 --> 4536.58] that could -[4536.58 --> 4537.10] ever happen -[4537.10 --> 4537.62] to us -[4537.62 --> 4538.24] already -[4538.24 --> 4539.08] has. -[4540.10 --> 4540.38] Because -[4540.38 --> 4540.56] we're -[4540.56 --> 4541.12] already -[4541.12 --> 4541.80] raised -[4541.80 --> 4542.14] with him. -[4542.20 --> 4542.58] Because -[4542.58 --> 4543.16] of the -[4543.16 --> 4543.64] resurrection -[4543.64 --> 4544.40] of Jesus, -[4544.76 --> 4545.20] the very -[4545.20 --> 4545.96] order of -[4545.96 --> 4546.72] things has -[4546.72 --> 4547.52] changed. -[4550.08 --> 4550.98] In fact, -[4552.02 --> 4553.68] this has -[4553.68 --> 4553.94] been the -[4553.94 --> 4554.96] message of -[4554.96 --> 4555.36] the gospel -[4555.36 --> 4555.80] and of -[4555.80 --> 4556.26] the church -[4556.26 --> 4557.94] for millennia. -[4558.56 --> 4559.06] This is the -[4559.06 --> 4559.56] message we -[4559.56 --> 4560.00] rehearse -[4560.00 --> 4561.60] every Sunday. -[4562.88 --> 4563.32] There's a -[4563.32 --> 4564.64] quote from -[4564.64 --> 4566.08] a gentleman. -[4566.28 --> 4566.64] His name -[4566.64 --> 4567.32] is Peter -[4567.32 --> 4568.54] Chrysologos. -[4569.02 --> 4569.62] He was -[4569.62 --> 4570.18] known in -[4570.18 --> 4570.88] history as -[4570.88 --> 4571.48] the doctor -[4571.48 --> 4572.32] of homilies. -[4572.32 --> 4573.52] apparently -[4573.52 --> 4573.86] he was -[4573.86 --> 4574.28] quite a -[4574.28 --> 4574.56] preacher. -[4575.26 --> 4575.62] He's -[4575.62 --> 4576.34] a 5th -[4576.34 --> 4576.96] century, -[4577.28 --> 4578.02] so he -[4578.02 --> 4578.50] died in -[4578.50 --> 4579.56] 450 AD, -[4579.96 --> 4580.82] 5th century -[4580.82 --> 4581.48] Christian -[4581.48 --> 4582.32] bishop in -[4582.32 --> 4582.86] the Italian -[4582.86 --> 4583.88] city of -[4583.88 --> 4584.36] Ravenna, -[4584.46 --> 4584.88] which is a -[4584.88 --> 4585.56] northern city. -[4586.34 --> 4586.74] At the -[4586.74 --> 4587.42] time when -[4587.42 --> 4587.86] he is -[4587.86 --> 4588.50] bishop there, -[4588.86 --> 4589.08] this is -[4589.08 --> 4589.60] actually, -[4590.04 --> 4590.68] Ravenna is -[4590.68 --> 4591.42] the capital -[4591.42 --> 4592.66] of the -[4592.66 --> 4593.58] western -[4593.58 --> 4594.48] holy -[4594.48 --> 4594.80] Roman -[4594.80 --> 4595.30] empire. -[4596.04 --> 4596.42] So he's, -[4596.96 --> 4597.28] it's a -[4597.28 --> 4597.74] significant -[4597.74 --> 4598.20] position. -[4598.20 --> 4598.74] he says -[4598.74 --> 4599.66] powerfully, -[4600.66 --> 4601.24] the order -[4601.24 --> 4602.00] of things -[4602.00 --> 4603.18] has changed. -[4604.02 --> 4604.82] The tomb -[4604.82 --> 4605.66] devours -[4605.66 --> 4606.34] death -[4606.34 --> 4607.30] and not -[4607.30 --> 4607.70] the dead. -[4608.72 --> 4609.48] The house -[4609.48 --> 4610.16] of death -[4610.16 --> 4611.24] becomes the -[4611.24 --> 4611.74] mansion -[4611.74 --> 4613.58] of life. -[4615.04 --> 4615.84] Did you -[4615.84 --> 4616.24] hear that? -[4617.32 --> 4618.50] The tomb -[4618.50 --> 4619.10] devours -[4619.10 --> 4619.74] death -[4619.74 --> 4620.70] and not -[4620.70 --> 4621.60] those -[4621.60 --> 4622.44] within it. -[4623.26 --> 4624.12] Because the -[4624.12 --> 4624.88] tomb is -[4624.88 --> 4625.70] empty, -[4626.16 --> 4626.88] death is -[4626.88 --> 4627.68] now defeated -[4627.68 --> 4628.48] and you -[4628.48 --> 4629.54] are set -[4629.54 --> 4630.44] free to -[4630.44 --> 4631.58] live life -[4631.58 --> 4632.60] in Jesus -[4632.60 --> 4633.32] Christ -[4633.32 --> 4634.16] abundantly. -[4636.20 --> 4637.08] This is -[4637.08 --> 4638.40] the claim -[4638.40 --> 4639.04] of the -[4639.04 --> 4639.52] resurrection -[4639.52 --> 4640.40] that because -[4640.40 --> 4641.50] God is -[4641.50 --> 4642.54] not dead, -[4642.66 --> 4643.56] because Jesus -[4643.56 --> 4644.44] has been -[4644.44 --> 4645.04] raised, -[4645.32 --> 4645.84] you do -[4645.84 --> 4646.44] not need -[4646.44 --> 4647.12] to fear -[4647.12 --> 4648.52] not even -[4648.52 --> 4649.42] death. -[4652.42 --> 4653.24] And the -[4653.24 --> 4653.94] second claim -[4653.94 --> 4654.98] of the -[4654.98 --> 4655.48] resurrection, -[4655.98 --> 4656.32] the second -[4656.32 --> 4656.80] claim of -[4656.80 --> 4657.26] resurrection -[4657.26 --> 4658.68] Sunday, -[4659.26 --> 4659.80] the second -[4659.80 --> 4660.30] claim that -[4660.30 --> 4660.90] we rehearse -[4660.90 --> 4661.86] every week -[4661.86 --> 4662.76] is that -[4662.76 --> 4663.40] resurrected -[4663.40 --> 4664.74] people have -[4664.74 --> 4666.18] a mission. -[4667.06 --> 4667.48] Do not -[4667.48 --> 4668.18] be afraid, -[4668.36 --> 4668.98] Jesus says, -[4669.08 --> 4669.72] go and -[4669.72 --> 4670.82] tell my -[4670.82 --> 4671.58] brothers. -[4671.84 --> 4673.18] Go and -[4673.18 --> 4674.06] tell. -[4674.86 --> 4675.50] This is -[4675.50 --> 4676.38] our purpose -[4676.38 --> 4677.16] now, -[4677.44 --> 4678.12] to tell -[4678.12 --> 4678.80] of this -[4678.80 --> 4679.52] resurrected -[4679.52 --> 4680.42] Jesus, -[4680.64 --> 4680.94] to be -[4680.94 --> 4681.84] used by -[4681.84 --> 4683.08] God in -[4683.08 --> 4683.58] all the -[4683.58 --> 4684.38] corners and -[4684.38 --> 4685.38] spheres of -[4685.38 --> 4685.98] our lives, -[4686.06 --> 4687.00] to proclaim -[4687.00 --> 4687.76] his -[4687.76 --> 4688.58] redemption, -[4688.96 --> 4689.32] to be -[4689.32 --> 4690.08] used of -[4690.08 --> 4690.42] God, -[4690.52 --> 4691.42] to declare -[4691.42 --> 4692.06] his kingdom -[4692.06 --> 4692.68] come and -[4692.68 --> 4693.14] his kingdom -[4693.14 --> 4693.58] coming. -[4694.50 --> 4694.78] And so -[4694.78 --> 4695.48] whether you -[4695.48 --> 4696.82] preach -[4696.82 --> 4698.06] every Sunday -[4698.06 --> 4699.12] or whether -[4699.12 --> 4700.68] you work -[4700.68 --> 4701.40] construction -[4701.40 --> 4702.48] every day, -[4702.70 --> 4703.36] you are -[4703.36 --> 4703.96] preaching -[4703.96 --> 4705.16] the resurrection -[4705.16 --> 4705.74] Sunday, -[4706.22 --> 4707.06] truth of -[4707.06 --> 4707.42] who God -[4707.42 --> 4707.70] is. -[4708.70 --> 4709.62] This is -[4709.62 --> 4710.16] what we do. -[4710.16 --> 4710.88] this is -[4710.88 --> 4712.42] our mission -[4712.42 --> 4713.20] together, -[4713.36 --> 4713.98] to go -[4713.98 --> 4715.64] and tell, -[4715.84 --> 4716.86] to declare -[4716.86 --> 4717.98] the truth -[4717.98 --> 4719.10] that the -[4719.10 --> 4719.56] tomb -[4719.56 --> 4721.20] is empty. -[4721.90 --> 4722.60] And because -[4722.60 --> 4723.50] that tomb -[4723.50 --> 4724.74] is empty, -[4725.18 --> 4726.26] we are -[4726.26 --> 4726.66] not -[4726.66 --> 4727.72] afraid. -[4729.38 --> 4730.26] But the -[4730.26 --> 4730.86] great reality -[4730.86 --> 4731.34] for most -[4731.34 --> 4732.04] of us is -[4732.04 --> 4733.98] that we -[4733.98 --> 4734.34] can sit -[4734.34 --> 4735.50] here on -[4735.50 --> 4735.86] Sunday -[4735.86 --> 4736.68] and say, -[4736.78 --> 4737.00] yes, -[4737.00 --> 4737.54] I am not -[4737.54 --> 4738.00] afraid. -[4739.30 --> 4739.68] But then -[4739.68 --> 4740.44] Monday comes, -[4741.20 --> 4742.06] or that -[4742.06 --> 4742.64] conversation -[4742.64 --> 4743.76] happens, -[4744.48 --> 4745.16] or that -[4745.16 --> 4745.68] person -[4745.68 --> 4746.68] shows up, -[4747.14 --> 4747.84] and then we -[4747.84 --> 4748.06] don't know -[4748.06 --> 4748.50] what to do, -[4748.96 --> 4749.42] and we -[4749.42 --> 4749.64] don't know -[4749.64 --> 4749.88] what to -[4749.88 --> 4750.08] say. -[4751.64 --> 4752.12] And our -[4752.12 --> 4752.70] God gives -[4752.70 --> 4753.58] us provision -[4753.58 --> 4754.28] for that -[4754.28 --> 4754.98] too. -[4755.66 --> 4756.12] Not only -[4756.12 --> 4756.44] does he -[4756.44 --> 4757.00] promise to -[4757.00 --> 4757.30] give us -[4757.30 --> 4757.88] words in -[4757.88 --> 4758.26] the power -[4758.26 --> 4758.50] of the -[4758.50 --> 4759.04] Holy Spirit, -[4759.34 --> 4759.66] but he -[4759.66 --> 4760.82] promises to -[4760.82 --> 4761.86] nourish and -[4761.86 --> 4762.88] sustain us -[4762.88 --> 4763.38] for these -[4763.38 --> 4763.92] journeys of -[4763.92 --> 4764.14] faith. -[4764.60 --> 4764.96] And that's -[4764.96 --> 4765.40] why we come -[4765.40 --> 4765.68] to this -[4765.68 --> 4766.94] table after -[4766.94 --> 4767.34] the word. -[4768.30 --> 4768.78] As we -[4768.78 --> 4769.58] rehearse the -[4769.58 --> 4770.04] resurrection -[4770.04 --> 4770.76] story, -[4770.98 --> 4771.60] we come -[4771.60 --> 4772.06] to this -[4772.06 --> 4772.82] table to -[4772.82 --> 4774.10] receive the -[4774.10 --> 4774.66] resurrected -[4774.66 --> 4775.78] Jesus in -[4775.78 --> 4776.74] power and -[4776.74 --> 4777.62] to be filled -[4777.62 --> 4778.66] with his -[4778.66 --> 4779.34] presence so -[4779.34 --> 4779.60] that it -[4779.60 --> 4780.34] might overflow -[4780.34 --> 4781.90] through us -[4781.90 --> 4782.60] to those -[4782.60 --> 4783.36] around us. -[4783.42 --> 4784.16] And so we -[4784.16 --> 4784.68] come to -[4784.68 --> 4785.44] this table -[4785.44 --> 4786.76] because he -[4786.76 --> 4787.56] first came -[4787.56 --> 4788.12] to us. -[4788.28 --> 4788.68] We come -[4788.68 --> 4789.14] to this -[4789.14 --> 4790.28] table because -[4790.28 --> 4792.20] he is -[4792.20 --> 4793.02] resurrected. -[4793.64 --> 4794.16] We come -[4794.16 --> 4794.62] to this -[4794.62 --> 4795.70] table because -[4795.70 --> 4796.76] he sends -[4796.76 --> 4797.50] us out -[4797.50 --> 4798.12] in the -[4798.12 --> 4798.82] power of -[4798.82 --> 4799.32] his name -[4799.32 --> 4799.74] with the -[4799.74 --> 4800.48] message of -[4800.48 --> 4801.50] his gospel -[4801.50 --> 4802.22] and he -[4802.22 --> 4803.00] gives us -[4803.00 --> 4803.78] these as -[4803.78 --> 4804.26] both an -[4804.26 --> 4805.06] image of -[4805.06 --> 4805.84] what that -[4805.84 --> 4806.52] looks like -[4806.52 --> 4807.24] but also -[4807.24 --> 4808.50] as a sign -[4808.50 --> 4809.26] and a -[4809.26 --> 4810.20] seal of -[4810.20 --> 4811.10] its truth -[4811.10 --> 4812.50] in your -[4812.50 --> 4813.22] life. -[4814.06 --> 4814.86] As we -[4814.86 --> 4815.30] come to -[4815.30 --> 4815.94] this table -[4815.94 --> 4817.66] to be fed -[4817.66 --> 4818.10] by our -[4818.10 --> 4818.38] Lord, -[4818.82 --> 4819.26] we will -[4819.26 --> 4819.84] do so -[4819.84 --> 4820.74] in a -[4820.74 --> 4821.22] special -[4821.22 --> 4821.90] Easter -[4821.90 --> 4822.90] liturgy. -[4822.90 --> 4823.44] So I -[4823.44 --> 4823.86] invite you -[4823.86 --> 4824.40] to follow -[4824.40 --> 4825.08] along -[4825.08 --> 4826.34] as we -[4826.34 --> 4827.42] see this -[4827.42 --> 4828.50] liturgy -[4828.50 --> 4828.94] on the -[4828.94 --> 4829.32] screen -[4829.32 --> 4830.26] behind us. -[4830.34 --> 4830.62] And the -[4830.62 --> 4831.70] first words -[4831.70 --> 4832.88] are yours. -[4834.18 --> 4835.10] Glory to -[4835.10 --> 4835.46] you, -[4835.78 --> 4836.16] O Lord -[4836.16 --> 4836.60] our God. -[4837.26 --> 4837.94] On this -[4837.94 --> 4838.48] day you -[4838.48 --> 4839.36] won victory -[4839.36 --> 4840.28] over death, -[4840.48 --> 4841.30] raising Jesus -[4841.30 --> 4841.82] from the -[4841.82 --> 4842.64] grave and -[4842.64 --> 4843.30] giving us -[4843.30 --> 4844.28] eternal life. -[4845.42 --> 4846.28] Glory to -[4846.28 --> 4846.62] you, -[4846.86 --> 4847.04] O Lord -[4847.04 --> 4847.36] Christ. -[4847.36 --> 4848.80] us and -[4848.80 --> 4849.30] for our -[4849.30 --> 4849.88] salvation -[4849.88 --> 4850.40] you -[4850.40 --> 4851.20] overcame -[4851.20 --> 4851.88] death and -[4851.88 --> 4853.08] opened the -[4853.08 --> 4853.86] gate to -[4853.86 --> 4854.54] everlasting -[4854.54 --> 4855.20] life. -[4856.44 --> 4857.42] Glory to -[4857.42 --> 4857.76] you, -[4857.88 --> 4858.40] O Lord -[4858.40 --> 4858.82] Spirit. -[4859.46 --> 4860.50] You lead -[4860.50 --> 4861.66] us into -[4861.66 --> 4862.70] the truth. -[4863.74 --> 4864.58] Glory to -[4864.58 --> 4864.94] you, -[4865.12 --> 4865.68] O blessed -[4865.68 --> 4866.22] Trinity, -[4866.82 --> 4867.60] now and -[4867.60 --> 4868.08] forever. -[4868.52 --> 4868.98] Amen. -[4869.48 --> 4870.04] Let's -[4870.04 --> 4870.26] pray. -[4873.92 --> 4874.86] Gracious -[4874.86 --> 4875.24] God, -[4875.92 --> 4876.66] pour out -[4876.66 --> 4877.46] your Holy -[4877.46 --> 4878.44] Spirit upon -[4878.44 --> 4879.00] us that -[4879.00 --> 4879.44] the bread -[4879.44 --> 4880.06] we break -[4880.06 --> 4880.40] and the -[4880.40 --> 4880.92] cup we -[4880.92 --> 4881.88] bless may -[4881.88 --> 4882.58] be the -[4882.58 --> 4883.54] communion of -[4883.54 --> 4884.04] the body -[4884.04 --> 4884.68] and blood -[4884.68 --> 4885.46] of Christ. -[4886.38 --> 4887.20] By your -[4887.20 --> 4887.88] Spirit make -[4887.88 --> 4888.66] us one with -[4888.66 --> 4889.32] Christ that -[4889.32 --> 4889.96] we may be -[4889.96 --> 4890.46] one with -[4890.46 --> 4890.96] all who -[4890.96 --> 4891.62] share this -[4891.62 --> 4891.96] feast, -[4892.34 --> 4893.04] united in -[4893.04 --> 4893.72] ministry in -[4893.72 --> 4894.60] every place. -[4895.86 --> 4896.44] As this -[4896.44 --> 4897.08] bread is -[4897.08 --> 4897.96] Christ's body -[4897.96 --> 4898.68] for us, -[4898.88 --> 4899.72] send us out -[4899.72 --> 4900.52] to be the -[4900.52 --> 4901.10] body of -[4901.10 --> 4902.32] Christ in -[4902.32 --> 4902.74] the world. -[4903.54 --> 4903.88] Amen. -[4906.66 --> 4908.30] Is not -[4908.30 --> 4908.80] the bread -[4908.80 --> 4909.24] that we -[4909.24 --> 4910.36] break a -[4910.36 --> 4911.50] sharing in -[4911.50 --> 4911.98] the body -[4911.98 --> 4912.72] of Christ? -[4914.50 --> 4914.90] We -[4914.90 --> 4915.16] need -[4915.16 --> 4915.40] the -[4915.40 --> 4915.64] bread -[4915.64 --> 4916.84] of our -[4916.84 --> 4917.32] body, -[4917.72 --> 4918.26] for we -[4918.26 --> 4918.94] all care -[4918.94 --> 4919.56] in the -[4919.56 --> 4919.88] moment. -[4924.68 --> 4925.54] Is not -[4925.54 --> 4926.00] the cup -[4926.00 --> 4926.50] for which -[4926.50 --> 4926.92] we give -[4926.92 --> 4927.76] thanks a -[4927.76 --> 4928.60] sharing in -[4928.60 --> 4929.14] the blood -[4929.14 --> 4929.88] of Christ? -[4929.88 --> 4931.54] The -[4931.54 --> 4931.96] cup -[4931.96 --> 4932.38] that we -[4932.38 --> 4933.14] drink is -[4933.14 --> 4933.44] our -[4933.44 --> 4934.28] participation -[4934.28 --> 4934.96] in the -[4934.96 --> 4935.42] blood of -[4935.42 --> 4935.84] Christ. -[4937.48 --> 4938.20] Together -[4938.20 --> 4939.26] we pray. -[4940.80 --> 4941.50] Holy -[4941.50 --> 4941.98] Father, -[4942.62 --> 4943.28] in thanks -[4943.28 --> 4943.68] for the -[4943.68 --> 4944.20] sacrifice -[4944.20 --> 4944.98] of Jesus -[4944.98 --> 4945.54] Christ, -[4946.20 --> 4946.62] in the -[4946.62 --> 4947.22] joy of -[4947.22 --> 4947.42] his -[4947.42 --> 4948.02] resurrection, -[4948.62 --> 4949.16] in the -[4949.16 --> 4949.76] hope of -[4949.76 --> 4950.30] his coming -[4950.30 --> 4950.82] again, -[4951.28 --> 4952.16] we present -[4952.16 --> 4953.26] ourselves a -[4953.26 --> 4954.16] living sacrifice -[4954.16 --> 4955.42] and come -[4955.42 --> 4955.86] to the -[4955.86 --> 4956.72] table of -[4956.72 --> 4957.22] our Lord. -[4958.06 --> 4959.20] This is -[4959.20 --> 4959.98] the mystery -[4959.98 --> 4960.92] of our -[4960.92 --> 4961.30] faith. -[4962.16 --> 4962.70] Your -[4962.70 --> 4963.06] death, -[4963.26 --> 4963.84] O Christ, -[4963.84 --> 4964.64] we proclaim. -[4965.26 --> 4965.60] Your -[4965.60 --> 4966.24] resurrection, -[4966.68 --> 4967.20] we affirm -[4967.20 --> 4967.86] with joy. -[4968.54 --> 4968.78] Your -[4968.78 --> 4969.32] coming, -[4969.54 --> 4970.08] we await -[4970.08 --> 4970.70] with hope. -[4971.42 --> 4972.18] Glory be -[4972.18 --> 4972.74] to you, -[4972.88 --> 4973.54] Lord Jesus. -[4974.98 --> 4975.82] Hear the -[4975.82 --> 4976.76] words of -[4976.76 --> 4977.28] our Savior. -[4977.98 --> 4978.52] Come to -[4978.52 --> 4978.90] me, -[4979.10 --> 4979.96] all who -[4979.96 --> 4981.40] labor and -[4981.40 --> 4982.08] are heavy -[4982.08 --> 4982.56] laden, -[4982.70 --> 4983.18] and I -[4983.18 --> 4983.80] will give -[4983.80 --> 4984.86] you rest. -[4985.30 --> 4985.86] Take my -[4985.86 --> 4986.48] yoke upon -[4986.48 --> 4986.90] you and -[4986.90 --> 4987.48] learn from -[4987.48 --> 4987.68] me, -[4987.84 --> 4988.42] for I am -[4988.42 --> 4989.10] gentle and -[4989.10 --> 4989.60] humble in -[4989.60 --> 4989.86] heart, -[4990.02 --> 4990.50] and you -[4990.50 --> 4991.08] will find -[4991.08 --> 4992.12] rest for -[4992.12 --> 4992.66] your souls. -[4992.66 --> 4994.40] come, -[4994.82 --> 4995.08] then, -[4995.52 --> 4996.14] for all -[4996.14 --> 4996.74] is ready. -[4997.38 --> 4997.86] We come -[4997.86 --> 4998.66] not because -[4998.66 --> 4999.28] we ought, -[4999.42 --> 5000.02] but because -[5000.02 --> 5000.52] we may. -[5000.88 --> 5001.50] Not because -[5001.50 --> 5001.82] we are -[5001.82 --> 5002.12] righteous, -[5002.38 --> 5002.92] but because -[5002.92 --> 5003.44] we are -[5003.44 --> 5004.30] penitent. -[5004.52 --> 5005.28] Not because -[5005.28 --> 5005.60] we are -[5005.60 --> 5006.10] strong, -[5006.26 --> 5006.90] but because -[5006.90 --> 5007.66] we are -[5007.66 --> 5007.98] weak. -[5008.14 --> 5008.78] Not because -[5008.78 --> 5009.20] we are -[5009.20 --> 5009.62] whole, -[5009.76 --> 5010.38] but because -[5010.38 --> 5011.74] we are -[5011.74 --> 5012.50] broken. -[5013.36 --> 5013.70] Come. -[5014.08 --> 5014.62] If you -[5014.62 --> 5015.06] are here -[5015.06 --> 5015.82] with us -[5015.82 --> 5016.62] this morning, -[5016.70 --> 5017.06] or if you -[5017.06 --> 5017.32] are at -[5017.32 --> 5017.86] home and -[5017.86 --> 5018.34] online, -[5018.76 --> 5019.08] come, -[5019.08 --> 5019.46] because -[5019.46 --> 5019.80] it is -[5019.80 --> 5020.28] Christ -[5020.28 --> 5020.56] who -[5020.56 --> 5021.02] invites -[5021.02 --> 5021.32] us -[5021.32 --> 5021.76] to -[5021.76 --> 5022.04] meet -[5022.04 --> 5022.28] him -[5022.28 --> 5022.70] here, -[5022.70 --> 5023.16] and -[5023.16 --> 5023.46] because -[5023.46 --> 5024.02] Christ -[5024.02 --> 5025.06] is -[5025.06 --> 5025.88] risen. -[5026.96 --> 5027.54] The gifts -[5027.54 --> 5028.06] of God -[5028.06 --> 5029.06] for the -[5029.06 --> 5029.54] people of -[5029.54 --> 5029.80] God. -[5030.84 --> 5031.54] As we -[5031.54 --> 5031.90] come to -[5031.90 --> 5032.42] this table, -[5033.22 --> 5033.58] we will -[5033.58 --> 5034.18] come up -[5034.18 --> 5034.98] in groups, -[5035.66 --> 5036.32] and there -[5036.32 --> 5036.60] will be -[5036.60 --> 5037.28] elders who -[5037.28 --> 5038.32] will usher -[5038.32 --> 5038.66] you to -[5038.66 --> 5039.10] the front -[5039.10 --> 5039.68] and gather -[5039.68 --> 5040.38] around in -[5040.38 --> 5040.78] a circle -[5040.78 --> 5041.12] here. -[5042.06 --> 5042.74] We will -[5042.74 --> 5043.28] pass the -[5043.28 --> 5043.72] elements -[5043.72 --> 5044.38] to the -[5044.38 --> 5044.66] person -[5044.66 --> 5045.42] beside us. -[5046.24 --> 5046.38] Now, -[5046.46 --> 5047.16] ordinarily, -[5047.60 --> 5048.72] what we -[5048.72 --> 5049.24] do when -[5049.24 --> 5049.68] we pass -[5049.68 --> 5049.86] the -[5049.86 --> 5050.26] elements -[5050.26 --> 5050.74] is we -[5050.74 --> 5051.22] say the -[5051.22 --> 5051.72] body of -[5051.72 --> 5052.18] Christ -[5052.18 --> 5053.02] given for -[5053.02 --> 5053.34] you. -[5053.58 --> 5053.90] This -[5053.90 --> 5054.26] morning, -[5054.46 --> 5054.86] I would -[5054.86 --> 5055.26] like you -[5055.26 --> 5055.78] to say -[5055.78 --> 5056.32] Christ -[5056.32 --> 5057.00] is risen, -[5057.68 --> 5057.96] and then -[5057.96 --> 5058.30] as you -[5058.30 --> 5058.94] receive the -[5058.94 --> 5059.40] elements, -[5059.62 --> 5059.90] say, -[5060.26 --> 5060.58] he is -[5060.58 --> 5060.92] risen -[5060.92 --> 5061.46] indeed. -[5062.38 --> 5062.82] Okay, -[5062.88 --> 5063.08] so it's -[5063.08 --> 5063.20] going to -[5063.20 --> 5063.50] sound a -[5063.50 --> 5063.70] little bit -[5063.70 --> 5064.00] different. -[5064.82 --> 5065.12] Christ -[5065.12 --> 5065.72] is risen, -[5066.54 --> 5066.92] he is -[5066.92 --> 5067.18] risen -[5067.18 --> 5067.58] indeed. -[5068.30 --> 5068.92] For the -[5068.92 --> 5069.48] first table, -[5069.62 --> 5069.92] I'm going -[5069.92 --> 5070.36] to invite -[5070.36 --> 5071.12] the worship -[5071.12 --> 5072.06] volunteers and -[5072.06 --> 5072.66] the elders -[5072.66 --> 5072.98] who are -[5072.98 --> 5073.30] going to do -[5073.30 --> 5073.92] the ushering -[5073.92 --> 5074.26] up to -[5074.26 --> 5074.68] the front -[5074.68 --> 5075.42] that they -[5075.42 --> 5076.04] might receive -[5076.04 --> 5076.70] and then -[5076.70 --> 5077.26] facilitate -[5077.26 --> 5078.06] our -[5078.06 --> 5078.54] receiving. -[5078.94 --> 5079.40] If you -[5079.40 --> 5080.00] are unable -[5080.00 --> 5080.46] to come -[5080.46 --> 5080.74] up to -[5080.74 --> 5081.10] the front -[5081.10 --> 5081.42] but would -[5081.42 --> 5081.80] like to -[5081.80 --> 5082.32] receive the -[5082.32 --> 5082.64] elements, -[5082.78 --> 5083.24] please just -[5083.24 --> 5083.98] indicate that -[5083.98 --> 5084.60] to the -[5084.60 --> 5085.38] serving elder -[5085.38 --> 5085.82] and they -[5085.82 --> 5086.18] will meet -[5086.18 --> 5087.00] you in -[5087.00 --> 5087.46] your spot -[5087.46 --> 5088.04] and serve -[5088.04 --> 5088.50] you there. -[5089.88 --> 5090.66] And if -[5090.66 --> 5091.86] you require -[5091.86 --> 5092.62] gluten-free -[5092.62 --> 5093.02] bread, -[5093.24 --> 5093.66] there's little -[5093.66 --> 5094.26] cups in -[5094.26 --> 5094.68] the middle -[5094.68 --> 5095.76] that have -[5095.76 --> 5096.32] gluten-free -[5096.32 --> 5097.64] bread there -[5097.64 --> 5098.12] as well -[5098.12 --> 5098.56] for you. -[5099.92 --> 5100.64] I invite -[5100.64 --> 5101.40] those who -[5101.40 --> 5101.78] are serving -[5101.78 --> 5102.12] to come -[5102.12 --> 5102.38] forward. -[5104.68 --> 5105.14] Edwards -[5134.68 --> 5164.66] Thank you. -[5164.68 --> 5194.66] Thank you. -[5194.68 --> 5224.66] Thank you. -[5224.68 --> 5254.66] Thank you. -[5254.68 --> 5284.66] Thank you. -[5284.66 --> 5286.66] Thank you. -[5314.66 --> 5316.66] Thank you. -[5344.66 --> 5346.66] Thank you. -[5346.66 --> 5348.66] Thank you. -[5348.66 --> 5350.66] Thank you. -[5350.66 --> 5352.66] Thank you. -[5380.66 --> 5382.66] Thank you. -[5410.66 --> 5412.66] Thank you. -[5440.66 --> 5442.66] Thank you. -[5442.66 --> 5444.66] Thank you. -[5444.66 --> 5446.66] Thank you. -[5446.66 --> 5448.66] Thank you. -[5448.66 --> 5450.66] Thank you. -[5450.66 --> 5452.66] Thank you. -[5452.66 --> 5454.66] Thank you. -[5482.66 --> 5484.66] Thank you. -[5484.66 --> 5486.66] Thank you. -[5486.66 --> 5488.66] Thank you. -[5488.66 --> 5490.66] Thank you. -[5490.66 --> 5492.66] Thank you. -[5492.66 --> 5494.66] Thank you. -[5494.66 --> 5496.66] Thank you. -[5496.66 --> 5498.66] Thank you. -[5498.66 --> 5500.66] Thank you. -[5500.66 --> 5502.66] Amen. -[5530.66 --> 5540.74] A great I Am, a crown of gold upon His head. -[5541.48 --> 5548.66] The Father's heart displayed for us. -[5548.66 --> 5555.66] O God, we thank You for the cross. -[5555.66 --> 5569.66] Lifted up on Calvary's hill, we curse Your name. -[5569.66 --> 5580.66] And even still, You bore our shame and paid the cost. -[5580.66 --> 5587.66] O God, we thank You for the cross. -[5591.66 --> 5601.66] Behold the Lamb, the story of redemption written on His hand. -[5601.66 --> 5606.66] Jesus, You will reign forevermore. -[5606.66 --> 5611.66] The victory is Yours. -[5611.66 --> 5616.66] We sing Your praise. -[5616.66 --> 5622.66] Endless hallelujah to Your holy name. -[5622.66 --> 5627.66] Jesus, You will reign forevermore. -[5627.66 --> 5632.66] The victory is Yours. -[5632.66 --> 5645.66] Offer God, this sacrifice for every sin. -[5645.66 --> 5648.66] Our Savior died. -[5648.66 --> 5655.66] The Lord of life can be contained. -[5655.66 --> 5662.66] Our God has risen from the grave. -[5662.66 --> 5669.66] O God has risen from the grave. -[5669.66 --> 5680.66] Behold the Lamb, the story of redemption written on His hand. -[5680.66 --> 5681.66] Jesus, You will reign forevermore. -[5681.66 --> 5682.66] Jesus, You will reign forevermore. -[5682.66 --> 5685.66] Jesus, You will reign forevermore. -[5685.66 --> 5686.66] Tagescles,омеijah these grace and glory, -[5686.66 --> 5692.66] The victory is yours. -[5692.66 --> 5694.66] Peter and Stephen, Vine, 켜 volta. -[5694.66 --> 5695.66] Yes, He will reign forevermore. -[5695.66 --> 5696.66] Jesus, You will reign for evermore. -[5696.66 --> 5698.66] Pinch alsgie,pentless hallelujahs to Your holy name. -[5698.66 --> 5700.66] Jesus, You will reign forevermore. -[5700.66 --> 5701.66] After everything is yours. -[5701.66 --> 5702.66] 121, Poinch alsgreets and46ie and"; -[5702.66 --> 5703.66] Jesus, Which was rejoice and deliver yet Yours. -[5703.66 --> 5705.66] Jesus, You will reign forevermore. -[5705.66 --> 5706.66] The victory is yours. -[5706.66 --> 5707.66] The victory is yours. -[5707.66 --> 5708.66] After everything is yours. -[5708.66 --> 5710.66] All agora in the Lord is yours. -[5710.66 --> 5712.66] Thanks, Christ in the Lord Satan, -[5712.66 --> 5721.40] When the age of death is done -[5721.40 --> 5728.50] We'll see your face bright as the sun -[5728.50 --> 5736.08] We'll bow before the King of Kings -[5736.08 --> 5743.08] O God, forever we will see -[5743.08 --> 5751.98] Behold the Lamb -[5751.98 --> 5759.44] The story of redemption written on His hands -[5759.44 --> 5764.08] Jesus, you will reign forevermore -[5764.08 --> 5769.08] The victory is yours -[5769.08 --> 5773.08] We sing your praise -[5773.08 --> 5779.08] Endless hallelujahs to your holy name -[5779.08 --> 5784.08] Jesus, you will reign forevermore -[5784.08 --> 5787.08] The victory is yours -[5787.08 --> 5791.08] You reign forevermore -[5791.08 --> 5794.08] The victory is yours -[5794.08 --> 5797.08] You reign forevermore -[5797.08 --> 5801.08] The victory is yours -[5801.08 --> 5804.08] You reign forever -[5804.08 --> 5808.08] You reign forever -[5808.08 --> 5819.08] You reign forever -[5819.08 --> 5821.08] You reign forever -[5821.08 --> 5825.08] You reign forever -[5825.08 --> 5827.08] One with God -[5827.08 --> 5832.08] The Lord most high -[5832.08 --> 5835.08] You reign forever -[5835.08 --> 5837.08] You reign forever -[5837.08 --> 5840.08] You reign forever -[5840.08 --> 5842.08] You reign forever -[5842.08 --> 5844.08] You reign forever -[5844.08 --> 5847.08] You reign forever -[5847.08 --> 5849.08] You reign forever -[5849.08 --> 5851.08] You reign forever -[5851.08 --> 5852.08] What a beautiful name -[5852.08 --> 5854.08] What a beautiful name it is -[5854.08 --> 5860.08] The name of Jesus Christ my King -[5860.08 --> 5864.08] What a beautiful name it is -[5864.08 --> 5868.08] Now we confess to this -[5868.08 --> 5871.08] What a beautiful name it is -[5871.08 --> 5872.08] What a beautiful name it is -[5872.08 --> 5873.08] The name of Jesus -[5873.08 --> 5875.08] What a beautiful name it is -[5875.08 --> 5877.08] The name of Jesus -[5877.08 --> 5883.08] And your honor -[5883.08 --> 5886.08] You reign forever -[5886.08 --> 5888.38] You reign forever -[5888.38 --> 5894.08] You reign forever -[5894.08 --> 5897.08] A beautiful name it is -[5897.08 --> 5897.58] The Français, thealubs, thei Assembly -[5898.08 --> 5899.08] God my grant -[5899.08 --> 5900.08] You reign forever -[5900.08 --> 5902.08] In the old fathers -[5902.08 --> 5904.08] When you mourned -[5904.08 --> 5907.58] God reign us now. -[5907.58 --> 5911.32] What a wonderful name it is. -[5911.48 --> 5914.82] What a wonderful name it is. -[5915.04 --> 5921.00] The name of Jesus Christ my friend. -[5922.12 --> 5925.72] What a wonderful name it is. -[5926.08 --> 5927.74] Now become precious. -[5929.20 --> 5931.96] What a wonderful name it is. -[5931.96 --> 5935.44] The name of Jesus. -[5935.44 --> 5938.94] What a wonderful name it is. -[5939.16 --> 5942.40] The name of Jesus. -[5961.96 --> 5973.84] Death could not hold you. -[5974.24 --> 5977.12] The veil tore before you. -[5977.12 --> 5984.00] To silence the ghosts of sin and grave. -[5984.66 --> 5987.30] The heavens are roaring. -[5988.14 --> 5990.76] The praise of your glory. -[5991.60 --> 5996.94] For you are raised to life again. -[5996.94 --> 6000.42] You have no rival. -[6000.42 --> 6004.42] You have no evil. -[6005.42 --> 6010.42] Now and forever God you reign. -[6012.22 --> 6014.66] Yours is the kingdom. -[6015.66 --> 6018.10] Yours is the glory. -[6018.10 --> 6025.08] Yours is the name above all names. -[6025.08 --> 6028.56] What a powerful name it is. -[6028.56 --> 6032.06] What a powerful name it is. -[6032.06 --> 6037.54] The name of Jesus Christ my friend. -[6037.54 --> 6042.16] What a powerful name it is. -[6042.16 --> 6045.38] Nothing can stand against. -[6045.38 --> 6048.54] What a powerful name it is. -[6048.54 --> 6052.02] The name of Jesus Christ my friend. -[6052.02 --> 6054.02] The name of Jesus Christ my friend. -[6054.02 --> 6055.20] You have no rival. -[6055.88 --> 6058.68] You have no evil. -[6059.48 --> 6065.14] Now and forever God you reign. -[6066.02 --> 6068.36] Yours is the kingdom. -[6069.36 --> 6071.74] Yours is the glory. -[6071.74 --> 6072.30] Your glory. -[6072.30 --> 6078.12] Yours is the name above all names. -[6078.90 --> 6081.78] What a powerful name it is. -[6082.12 --> 6085.06] What a powerful name it is. -[6085.06 --> 6090.72] The name of Jesus Christ my friend. -[6091.56 --> 6094.80] What a powerful name it is. -[6095.56 --> 6097.94] Nothing can stand against. -[6098.56 --> 6101.14] What a powerful name it is. -[6101.14 --> 6104.52] The name of Jesus -[6104.52 --> 6107.82] What a wonderful name it is -[6107.82 --> 6111.02] The name of Jesus -[6111.02 --> 6114.30] What a beautiful name it is -[6114.30 --> 6117.78] The name of Jesus -[6131.14 --> 6143.64] Thank you -[6161.14 --> 6168.52] And I hear the Savior say, -[6168.52 --> 6173.90] Thy strength indeed is small. -[6174.44 --> 6179.00] Child of weakness, watch and pray. -[6179.80 --> 6184.76] Find in me, thine all in all. -[6186.12 --> 6189.62] Jesus, faith it all. -[6191.14 --> 6195.48] All to hear my own. -[6195.48 --> 6200.40] Sin that left a presence still, -[6200.74 --> 6204.96] He watched in blood and snow. -[6208.00 --> 6212.48] Lord, now indeed I find, -[6213.54 --> 6217.80] Thy power and Thine alone. -[6217.80 --> 6223.14] Can't change the number of stars, -[6223.14 --> 6227.90] And that will harvest all. -[6229.18 --> 6233.80] Jesus made it all, -[6234.14 --> 6238.06] All to Him I owe. -[6238.06 --> 6243.40] And when before the throne, -[6243.40 --> 6247.06] I stand in Him complete, -[6247.06 --> 6253.40] Jesus died my soul to save. -[6253.40 --> 6258.74] Now my lips shall still repeat. -[6258.74 --> 6264.74] Jesus died my soul to save. -[6264.74 --> 6269.74] Now my lips shall still repeat. -[6269.74 --> 6275.08] Jesus made it all, -[6275.08 --> 6281.08] All to Him I owe. -[6281.08 --> 6286.08] Sin that left a prison stay, -[6286.42 --> 6290.38] He washed it white as snow. -[6290.38 --> 6295.86] Sin that left a prison stay, -[6296.42 --> 6300.30] He washed it white as snow. -[6300.30 --> 6305.64] He washed it white as snow. -[6305.64 --> 6310.64] He washed it white as snow. -[6310.64 --> 6316.60] Forty Schedulein. -[6316.98 --> 6333.24] It thôi 이제 InvaniItalius -[6333.24 --> 6335.24] Oh -[6363.24 --> 6365.24] Oh -[6365.24 --> 6367.24] Oh -[6387.24 --> 6390.74] You're church this is one of those songs you just need to sing on Easter Sunday -[6390.74 --> 6392.74] So please join us as we sing Jesus Messiah -[6420.74 --> 6422.74] Oh -[6450.74 --> 6452.74] Jesus -[6452.74 --> 6454.74] Messiah -[6454.74 --> 6458.74] In the -[6458.74 --> 6460.74] Holy -[6460.74 --> 6464.74] Blessed -[6464.74 --> 6466.74] Jesus -[6466.74 --> 6468.74] Jesus -[6468.74 --> 6470.74] Messiah -[6470.74 --> 6472.74] Lord of all -[6472.74 --> 6474.74] Jesus -[6474.74 --> 6476.74] Jesus -[6476.74 --> 6478.74] Messiah -[6478.74 --> 6480.74] Lord of all -[6480.74 --> 6482.74] Jesus -[6482.74 --> 6484.74] Messiah -[6484.74 --> 6486.74] Jesus -[6486.74 --> 6488.74] Messiah -[6488.74 --> 6490.74] Jesus -[6490.74 --> 6492.74] Messiah -[6492.74 --> 6494.74] Lord of all -[6494.74 --> 6496.74] Jesus -[6496.74 --> 6498.74] Messiah -[6498.74 --> 6500.74] Jesus -[6500.74 --> 6502.74] Messiah -[6502.74 --> 6504.74] Jesus -[6504.74 --> 6506.74] Messiah -[6506.74 --> 6508.74] Jesus -[6508.74 --> 6510.74] Messiah -[6510.74 --> 6512.74] Jesus -[6512.74 --> 6514.74] Jesus -[6514.74 --> 6516.74] Messiah -[6516.74 --> 6518.74] Jesus -[6518.74 --> 6526.74] Zh- -[6526.74 --> 6528.74] cancer -[6528.74 --> 6534.74] Jesus Messiah -[6534.74 --> 6540.74] Gave her the walking -[6540.74 --> 6546.74] As every leader -[6546.74 --> 6552.74] Anywhere -[6552.74 --> 6558.74] The rescue for sinners -[6558.74 --> 6564.74] The ransom of heaven -[6564.74 --> 6568.74] Jesus Messiah -[6568.74 --> 6574.74] Gave her the walking -[6574.74 --> 6580.74] All our hope -[6580.74 --> 6584.74] In you -[6584.74 --> 6586.74] All our hope -[6586.74 --> 6588.74] In you -[6588.74 --> 6592.74] All our hope -[6592.74 --> 6594.74] In you -[6594.74 --> 6596.74] And -[6596.74 --> 6600.74] The flame of the fire -[6600.74 --> 6604.74] Jesus Messiah -[6604.74 --> 6620.64] Messiah, King of the Holy, Blessed Redeemer, -[6620.64 --> 6633.84] In any land, the rescue of our sinners, -[6633.84 --> 6649.64] The rescue of our sinners, Jesus Messiah, Lord of all. -[6649.64 --> 6661.64] Jesus Messiah, Lord of all. -[6668.64 --> 6670.64] Is now okay? -[6670.64 --> 6671.64] Yes. -[6671.64 --> 6672.64] Amen. -[6672.64 --> 6673.64] Amen. -[6673.64 --> 6675.64] Amen. -[6675.64 --> 6682.64] As you go, know that our resurrected God goes with you. -[6682.64 --> 6689.64] As you go, know that you do not go alone, but you go in the power of the one who has defeated death. -[6689.64 --> 6693.64] And so hear his words, do not be afraid. -[6693.64 --> 6696.64] As you go, go with the blessing of our God. -[6696.64 --> 6701.64] Go with the invitation to gather together in fellowship after the service. -[6701.64 --> 6706.64] Go with the invitation if you would like to pray with someone to meet them up here, -[6706.64 --> 6713.64] to receive prayer, to prayer of celebration and thanksgiving, a prayer of need and supplication, -[6713.64 --> 6715.64] whatever it is, they will meet you here. -[6715.64 --> 6716.64] And go as well. -[6716.64 --> 6720.64] I would love to meet with you if you are a guest here especially. -[6720.64 --> 6725.64] And so eventually, after I'm able to make it back there, I will be at the Connect booth as well. -[6725.64 --> 6727.64] I'd love to grab you. -[6727.64 --> 6729.64] Receive God's greeting. -[6729.64 --> 6730.64] Or God's blessing. -[6730.64 --> 6735.64] God, go before you to lead you. -[6735.64 --> 6738.64] God, go behind you to protect you. -[6738.64 --> 6741.64] God, go beneath you to support you. -[6741.64 --> 6744.64] And God, go beside you to befriend you. -[6744.64 --> 6747.64] Do not be afraid. -[6747.64 --> 6750.64] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[6750.64 --> 6752.64] Do not be afraid. -[6752.64 --> 6757.64] But go and tell the world of our risen Savior. -[6757.64 --> 6758.64] Amen. -[6760.64 --> 6786.64] As the Lord has been to death, -[6786.64 --> 6788.64] Hallelujah -[6788.64 --> 6794.64] Sometimes angels sing -[6794.64 --> 6798.64] Hallelujah -[6798.64 --> 6802.64] There's your joy and joy of song -[6802.64 --> 6806.64] Hallelujah -[6806.64 --> 6810.64] Singing and to the divine -[6810.64 --> 6814.64] Hallelujah -[6816.64 --> 6824.64] This earth get our glorious King -[6824.64 --> 6828.64] Hallelujah -[6828.64 --> 6832.64] There of death is now I sing -[6832.64 --> 6836.64] Hallelujah -[6836.64 --> 6840.64] Dying on sea all the same -[6840.64 --> 6844.64] Hallelujah -[6844.64 --> 6846.64] There I pray to be -[6846.64 --> 6848.64] O great Lord -[6848.64 --> 6850.64] Hallelujah -[6850.64 --> 6854.64] He is our death -[6854.64 --> 6856.64] He is our God -[6856.64 --> 6858.64] He is our God -[6858.64 --> 6862.64] We have his hope -[6862.64 --> 6864.64] In Jesus Christ -[6864.64 --> 6866.64] In Jesus Christ -[6866.64 --> 6872.64] The sweet evil work is done -[6872.64 --> 6874.64] Hallelujah -[6874.64 --> 6878.64] On the rise of battle hall -[6878.64 --> 6882.64] Hallelujah -[6882.64 --> 6884.64] Death in faith for his surprise -[6884.64 --> 6886.64] Hallelujah -[6886.64 --> 6888.64] Hallelujah -[6888.64 --> 6892.64] Hallelujah -[6892.64 --> 6896.64] I am the one who will never die -[6896.64 --> 6898.64] Hallelujah -[6898.64 --> 6900.64] He is our God -[6900.64 --> 6902.64] He is our God -[6902.64 --> 6904.64] He is our God -[6904.64 --> 6906.64] He is our God -[6906.64 --> 6908.64] He is our God -[6908.64 --> 6912.64] Who will never die -[6912.64 --> 6914.64] He is our God -[6914.64 --> 6916.64] He is our God -[6916.64 --> 6918.64] We have his hope -[6918.64 --> 6922.64] We have his hope -[6922.64 --> 6924.64] In Jesus Christ -[6924.64 --> 6926.64] Lord -[6926.64 --> 6928.64] Jesus Christ -[6928.64 --> 6943.64] Oh -[6950.10 --> 6956.18] oh -[6958.64 --> 6960.64] Oh -[6988.64 --> 6990.64] Oh -[7018.64 --> 7020.64] Oh -[7048.64 --> 7050.64] Oh -[7078.64 --> 7080.64] Oh -[7108.64 --> 7110.64] Oh -[7138.64 --> 7140.64] Oh -[7140.64 --> 7142.64] Oh -[7142.64 --> 7144.64] Oh -[7144.64 --> 7146.64] Oh -[7146.64 --> 7148.64] Oh -[7150.64 --> 7152.64] Oh -[7154.64 --> 7156.64] Oh -[7158.64 --> 7160.64] Oh -[7162.64 --> 7164.64] Oh -[7168.64 --> 7170.64] Oh -[7170.64 --> 7172.64] Oh -[7174.64 --> 7176.64] Oh -[7176.64 --> 7178.64] Oh -[7178.64 --> 7180.64] Oh -[7180.64 --> 7182.64] Oh -[7182.64 --> 7184.64] Oh -[7188.64 --> 7190.64] Oh -[7194.64 --> 7196.64] Oh -[7196.64 --> 7198.64] Oh -[7198.64 --> 7228.62] Thank you. -[7228.64 --> 7258.62] Thank you. -[7258.64 --> 7288.62] Thank you. -[7288.64 --> 7318.62] Thank you. -[7318.64 --> 7348.62] Thank you. -[7348.64 --> 7378.62] Thank you. -[7378.64 --> 7408.62] Thank you. -[7408.64 --> 7410.64] Thank you. diff --git a/Easter Sunday, April 20 2025_summary.txt b/Easter Sunday, April 20 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index adbaccda7422763362648c91dfb1f4e8c33d3fd9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Easter Sunday, April 20 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,98 +0,0 @@ -• A song about redemption and resurrection -• Test audio equipment for broadcast or live streaming -• Introduction to worship service on Resurrection Sunday -• Announcements: - • Pastor's class in May for those interested in making a public profession of faith - • Gems Sunday next week to celebrate the ministry - • Treat Tag month in April -• Dropping worship materials on people's porches or sneaking them to them -• Continuing activities through the end of the month as able -• Passing the peace in worship -• Celebrating Resurrection Sunday and Easter morning -• Reading from Luke 24, specifically Jesus' resurrection -• Thanking God for the gift of salvation and eternal life -• Singing hymns, including Christ the Lord is Risen Today -• Jesus Christ is alive and offers hope through faith in Him. -• The Apostles' Creed is recited as a statement of Christian belief. -• The story of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection is referenced. -• The speaker reflects on the significance of the cross, calling it "my salvation" where God's love was poured out. -• Various phrases are repeated, including "Alleluia", "Praise and honor unto thee", and other expressions of worship. -• Hosanna chants and expressions of praise to God -• Worship service continues with offerings for the church budget and Life Water Canada -• Story about Life Water Canada, a organization founded by two men from Thunder Bay, Ontario to dig wells in villages contaminated by war -• Scripture reading about Jesus' statement "I was thirsty and you gave me to drink" -• Personal testimony of salvation and redemption through Jesus Christ -• Discussion of Easter and Jesus' resurrection in children's worship time -• Prayer requests for various church members, including health issues and the nomination process for pastoral elders and deacons -• Reading from Luke 24:1-12, the story of the resurrection in the Gospel of Luke -• Election discussion (not fully transcribed) -• The speaker discusses the Canadian national debt and how it is a nonsensical number that they cannot wrap their head around. -• The speaker compares the feeling of being overwhelmed by large numbers to the disciples' experience of the resurrection, which seemed like nonsense to them. -• The speaker warns against reading the Bible with a "prideful privileging of the contemporary perspective", assuming that people in the past were less intelligent or knew less about the world. -• The speaker emphasizes that the resurrection did not make sense to the disciples and should not be dismissed as nonsensical, but rather understood within its own context. -• Hippocrates' school collected medical documents and writings on health and well-being -• The word "leros" was used to describe irrational speech and hallucinations associated with illness or high fevers -• The disciples would be more likely to believe the women were delirious rather than Jesus being raised from the dead -• Resurrection doesn't make sense in the existing framework of perception, expectation, and meaning -• Sense-making refers to comprehension, emotional aspects, and making sense of reality -• Nonsense is a lack of meaning or coherence with reality -• People today struggle to make sense of the world due to shifting perspectives and increasing complexity -• The terms "sense-making" and "meaning-making" have skyrocketed in usage due to internet trends and SEO key terms -• The limits of reason and observation in understanding reality -• The Enlightenment project's focus on demystifying the world and its limitations -• The rise of postmodernism and its deconstruction of objective truth -• Post-postmodernism and the emergence of metamodernism as a new cultural movement -• Metamodernism's oscillation between modern and postmodern perspectives -• The tension between modern and postmodern perspectives -• The coexistence of hope and melancholy, naivete and knowingness -• The struggle with ambiguity and the need for sense-making in a post-secular age -• The interplay between doubt and faith, as well as wonder and certainty -• The longing for transcendence and spirituality in a world where they are denied -• The resurrection of Jesus does not fit into a modern world view -• It's a new way of seeing and understanding the world -• Resurrection faith is supra-rational, remaking imagination -• Faith involves commitment to a particular way of understanding the world -• The resurrection provides a necessary framework for making sense of the world -• Without the resurrection, the world lacks coherence -• The need for a unifying narrative or meaning in life -• The significance of the resurrection as the one true story that reorders all other stories and gives life meaning -• The cross and resurrection of Jesus being pivotal events that transform shame into glory, foolishness into wisdom, and humiliation into exaltation -• The power of the resurrection to redeem even the most traumatic experiences in life -• The concept of death and its significance in relation to the resurrection: without it, death has the last word; with it, death is defeated and redefined. -• Jesus' resurrection is seen as a living experience in the present, not just a future event -• Practicing resurrection involves intentional decision-making and participation in life out of death -• Resurrection life means faith, hope, and love in a world focused on death and nonsense -• Introducing people to Christianity through imagination can be more effective than intellectual arguments -• The role of art and aesthetics in engaging with apologetics -• A poem by Malcolm Guite is read to illustrate resurrection faith and doubt in an age of nonsense -• Imagery of an empty tomb on Easter day and a sense of liberation -• Reflection on the resurrection's impact on one's life and faith -• Prayers for a deeper understanding and connection with God, particularly in everyday experiences -• Invitation to participate in an Easter liturgy and feast of victory -• Discussion of Christ's example and mandate to remember Him through bread and cup -• Call to come to the table regardless of faith or doubt -• Introduction to communion service -• Instructions for participating in communion: coming up to the table in groups, passing bread and juice, and saying specific phrases -• Accommodations for those with gluten-free dietary needs -• Instructions for serving communion to those who are unable to come to the front -• Introduction of worship leaders and elders to lead singing and prayer -• Invitation to meet someone for prayer in the foyer -• Communion service begins -• Worship song "Amazing Grace" is sung at the end -• References to Christian hymns and scripture, specifically "Amazing Grace" and Bible verses about Jesus being the bread of life -• Discussion of salvation and redemption through Jesus Christ -• Expressions of gratitude for the cross and God's love -• Themes of eternal life, resurrection, and raising up on the last day -• Reflections on human weakness and dependence on God's power -• Jesus paid it all and we owe Him everything -• Sin has left a crimson stain, but He washed it white as snow -• Story about Peter running to the tomb after Jesus' resurrection -• Invocation for God's blessing and protection in one's life -• Sermon referencing Calvary and Jesus' crucifixion -• Praise to God -• Jesus' return in robes of white -• The sun shining brightly at night -• Rising among the saints and seeing Jesus' face -• Repeating prayers and hymns -• A future "glorious unfolding" of God's story and plan -• Trusting in God's promises and love \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Easter Sunday, April 20 2025_transcript.txt b/Easter Sunday, April 20 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c85858f0bcb6de0c3fe45d779f00bc9cfcfb490d..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Easter Sunday, April 20 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1629 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 13.64] Out of the shadows, found for the gallows, a dead man walking, till love came calling. -[14.72 --> 19.40] Rise up, rise up, rise up, rise up. -[19.52 --> 27.90] Six feet under, I thought it was over, and answered a prayer, the voice of a savior. -[27.90 --> 34.00] Rise up, rise up, rise up, rise up. -[34.48 --> 49.90] Fall in once, I came alive, this beating on, these open eyes, the ground let go, the darkness should have known. -[49.90 --> 58.90] Oh, you're still rolling, you're still rolling, you're still rolling, you're still rolling, you're still rolling, you're still rolling. -[62.90 --> 69.12] Now that you saved me, I think cause you gave me a song of revival. -[69.12 --> 71.64] I put it on vinyl -[71.64 --> 73.98] Rise up -[73.98 --> 76.38] Rise up -[76.38 --> 77.50] Rise up -[77.50 --> 79.50] I once was blinded -[79.50 --> 81.90] But now I see it -[81.90 --> 83.80] I heard about the power -[83.80 --> 86.88] And now I believe it -[86.88 --> 88.52] Rise up -[88.52 --> 89.64] Rise up -[89.64 --> 92.14] Rise up -[92.14 --> 94.48] All at once -[94.48 --> 96.82] I came alive -[96.82 --> 99.34] This bitter night -[99.34 --> 101.72] These open eyes -[101.72 --> 104.08] They're gonna go -[104.08 --> 109.86] The darkness should have known -[109.86 --> 112.88] You're still rolling stones -[112.88 --> 117.80] You're still rolling stones -[117.80 --> 125.48] I thought that I was too far gone -[125.48 --> 130.84] For everything I've done wrong -[130.84 --> 135.48] Yeah, I'm the one who dug this grave -[135.48 --> 138.70] But you called my name -[138.70 --> 141.60] You called my name -[141.60 --> 145.54] I thought that I was too far gone -[145.54 --> 150.88] For everything I've done wrong -[150.88 --> 155.68] Yeah, I'm the one who dug this grave -[155.68 --> 158.72] But you called my name -[158.72 --> 162.76] You called my name -[162.76 --> 166.22] All at once -[166.22 --> 167.76] I came alive -[167.76 --> 170.98] This bitter night -[170.98 --> 172.76] These open eyes -[172.76 --> 175.80] They're gonna go -[175.80 --> 180.76] The darkness should have known -[180.76 --> 183.76] You're still rolling stone -[183.76 --> 185.54] He's still rolling -[185.54 --> 201.08] Oh, you're still rolling -[201.08 --> 206.02] Rolling -[206.02 --> 206.80] Rolling -[206.80 --> 207.74] You're still rolling -[207.74 --> 208.32] Strong -[208.32 --> 238.30] Satsang with Mooji -[238.32 --> 263.56] Test one, two, test, check, test, test, test, hello, everybody. -[263.56 --> 269.24] Test one, two, testing, testing, are we live, are we live? -[269.46 --> 270.96] Seems to be bouncing up there, so. -[293.56 --> 300.32] The angels went, the Father looked away. -[303.20 --> 309.92] The final breath, He bowed His hand. -[310.56 --> 313.56] The Lamb of God was slain. -[313.56 --> 319.68] By His wounds I am set free -[319.68 --> 326.56] By His blood I've been redeemed -[326.56 --> 332.56] The great divide He crossed for me -[332.56 --> 338.88] Oh, praise the God of Calvary -[338.88 --> 355.20] On the hill of Calvary -[355.20 --> 359.30] Into the Father's hands -[359.30 --> 363.66] A holy surrender -[363.66 --> 368.26] A borrowed tomb -[368.26 --> 371.56] His mother wept -[371.56 --> 374.98] And there His body lay -[374.98 --> 381.20] But the stone was moved -[381.20 --> 384.54] He conquered death -[384.54 --> 386.12] And rose -[398.26 --> 413.56] Christ is risen -[413.56 --> 425.50] Christ is risen -[425.50 --> 428.90] Christ is risen -[428.90 --> 433.86] Christ is risen -[433.86 --> 438.94] Amen and amen -[438.94 --> 442.74] Welcome to worship on this Resurrection Sunday -[442.74 --> 445.70] A special welcome if you are a guest among us -[445.70 --> 448.28] My name is Chris, I'm one of the pastors here -[448.28 --> 454.62] And it's our privilege to gather together and to worship our risen Savior today -[454.62 --> 460.78] Before we begin in earnest we have a couple announcements to remind you of and throw it in front of you -[460.78 --> 467.58] First of all, in May, beginning in May, we will be running a pastor's class -[467.58 --> 476.56] And so that's a class for people, primarily young people, often who have found their way through our youth program -[476.56 --> 479.24] And who are interested in doing profession of faith -[479.24 --> 483.02] Interested in standing up and saying, yes, this I believe -[483.02 --> 486.20] And I want to share that with this family of God -[486.20 --> 489.94] And so if you are interested in making a public profession of faith -[489.94 --> 492.56] Talk to me or to Pastor Kevin -[492.56 --> 494.46] After our worship together -[494.46 --> 497.28] And we'll explain to you what pastor's class looks like -[497.28 --> 499.94] And when that will get started in earnest -[499.94 --> 507.48] Secondly, we want to remind you or inform you that next Sunday here at Emmanuel is Gems Sunday -[507.48 --> 510.68] And so we're going to be celebrating and lifting up the Gems ministry -[510.68 --> 514.52] It's a young girls ministry that happens here every other week -[514.52 --> 520.32] We'll hear stories from them, see what God has been up to in the midst of that work together -[520.32 --> 526.76] And then lastly, April is the month where we also celebrate and practice treat tag -[526.76 --> 535.52] I'll give you another chance at the end of the announcement, be ready -[535.52 --> 540.22] And so if you don't know, treat tag -[540.22 --> 541.56] Treat tag -[541.56 --> 545.36] Is one of the things we do around here where we just bless one another -[545.36 --> 548.94] By sharing a small treat, a goodie of some sort -[548.94 --> 553.00] Either here at church on our Sunday worship -[553.00 --> 555.60] Or throughout the week dropping it on people's porches -[555.60 --> 558.28] Or sneaking it to them in some way -[558.28 --> 560.52] I encourage you to continue that -[560.52 --> 563.16] And keep that going through the end of the month -[563.16 --> 566.14] As we have the opportunity to do so -[566.14 --> 567.08] Treat tag -[567.08 --> 571.44] We're losing vigor -[571.44 --> 577.84] As we come together, we do so in the presence of our good God -[577.84 --> 580.48] And so I'm going to invite you as you're able to stand together -[580.48 --> 584.74] God will welcome us in his presence with his greeting -[584.74 --> 589.20] Following the greeting of God, I invite you to turn to those around you -[589.20 --> 591.72] And welcome them in worship together -[591.72 --> 595.28] Welcome them by passing the peace, saying the peace of Christ be with you -[595.28 --> 596.66] Or the Lord be with you -[596.66 --> 601.42] Welcome them into our worship this amazing Resurrection Sunday -[601.42 --> 603.86] Receive the blessing of our God -[603.86 --> 608.22] Grace, mercy, and peace to you -[608.22 --> 609.38] From God our Father -[609.38 --> 612.42] From the risen Jesus Christ, his Son and our Savior -[612.42 --> 615.26] Through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit -[615.26 --> 616.50] Amen -[616.50 --> 616.58] Amen -[616.58 --> 618.58] Amen -[618.58 --> 620.58] Amen -[620.58 --> 622.58] Amen -[622.58 --> 624.58] Amen -[624.58 --> 626.58] Amen -[626.58 --> 628.58] Amen -[628.58 --> 630.58] Amen -[630.58 --> 630.64] Amen -[633.86 --> 654.58] Amen -[654.58 --> 656.24] Luke 24 -[656.24 --> 660.20] They found the stone rolled away from the tomb -[660.20 --> 663.84] But when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord -[663.84 --> 664.42] Jesus -[664.42 --> 670.68] While they were wondering about this, suddenly men in clothes that gleamed like lightning -[670.68 --> 672.32] stood beside them -[672.32 --> 677.48] In their fright, the women bowed down with their faces to the ground -[677.48 --> 682.16] But the men said to them, why do you look for the living among the dead? -[682.64 --> 688.54] He is not here. He has risen. Remember how he told you -[688.54 --> 690.60] While he was still in Galilee -[690.60 --> 695.40] That the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men -[695.40 --> 696.82] And be crucified -[696.82 --> 699.48] And on the third day, rise -[699.48 --> 704.14] Let's open our Easter morning worship together -[704.14 --> 705.38] In a word of prayer -[705.38 --> 712.88] Almighty God, on this Easter Sunday, we celebrate with joy and thankfulness -[712.88 --> 715.60] For the sacrificial love of Jesus -[715.60 --> 719.36] And the redemption that we have in his death and resurrection -[719.36 --> 722.84] Thank you for the gift of salvation -[722.84 --> 726.08] And the promise of eternal life with you -[726.08 --> 729.74] As we enter into this time of worship -[729.74 --> 733.98] May our hearts overflow with gratitude and praise -[733.98 --> 735.12] Amen -[735.12 --> 739.06] Some of you brought flowers this morning -[739.06 --> 742.64] And some of you got a few flowers on your way in -[742.64 --> 746.88] So we encourage you in these first two songs of worship this morning -[746.88 --> 749.12] To come and pick a vase and put them in there -[749.12 --> 770.44] Christ the Lord is risen today -[770.44 --> 773.10] Hallelujah -[773.10 --> 774.10] Hallelujah -[774.10 --> 778.76] Sons of men and angels say -[778.76 --> 780.96] Hallelujah -[780.96 --> 786.18] Raise your choice and try us high -[786.18 --> 788.72] Hallelujah -[788.72 --> 793.54] Sing he has and earth reply -[793.54 --> 796.44] Hallelujah -[796.44 --> 797.44] Hallelujah -[797.44 --> 798.44] Hallelujah -[798.44 --> 808.44] Lived again our glorious King -[808.44 --> 810.44] Hallelujah -[810.44 --> 816.16] Where oh death is now thy sting -[816.16 --> 818.44] Hallelujah -[818.44 --> 823.56] Dying once he all comes to -[823.56 --> 825.44] Hallelujah -[825.44 --> 826.44] Hallelujah -[826.44 --> 830.44] Where's thy victory, oh great -[830.44 --> 831.44] Hallelujah -[831.44 --> 838.44] He is not dead -[838.44 --> 841.44] He is alive -[841.44 --> 846.44] He has this hope -[846.44 --> 850.44] In Jesus Christ -[850.44 --> 864.44] God's redeeming work is done -[864.44 --> 865.44] Hallelujah -[865.44 --> 871.44] God the fight, the battle won -[871.44 --> 872.44] Hallelujah -[872.44 --> 875.44] Death and pain forbear to Christ -[875.44 --> 876.44] Hallelujah -[876.44 --> 879.44] Death and pain forbear to Christ -[879.44 --> 880.44] Hallelujah -[880.44 --> 881.44] Hallelujah -[881.44 --> 885.44] Christ has opened paradise -[885.44 --> 886.44] Hallelujah -[886.44 --> 887.44] He is not dead -[887.44 --> 888.44] He is alive -[888.44 --> 890.44] He is alive -[890.44 --> 892.44] He has this hope -[892.44 --> 894.44] He is not dead -[894.44 --> 895.44] He is alive -[895.44 --> 896.44] He is alive -[896.44 --> 897.44] He is alive -[897.44 --> 899.44] He is alive -[899.44 --> 901.44] He has this hope -[901.44 --> 903.44] He has this hope -[903.44 --> 905.44] In Jesus Christ -[905.44 --> 919.44] us -[924.56 --> 931.44] soar we now where christ has led -[935.44 --> 941.68] am -[944.64 --> 949.68] oh -[950.32 --> 953.68] the -[953.68 --> 971.90] Hallelujah. He is not dead. He is alive. We have His hope in Jesus Christ. -[971.90 --> 987.82] He is not dead. He is alive. We have His hope in Jesus Christ. -[1001.90 --> 1003.90] Amen. -[1031.90 --> 1033.90] Amen. -[1061.90 --> 1063.90] Amen. -[1091.90 --> 1093.90] Amen. -[1121.90 --> 1123.90] Amen. -[1151.90 --> 1153.90] Amen. -[1181.90 --> 1183.90] Amen. -[1211.90 --> 1219.94] Let's join together with our hearts and our voices in confessing what we believe through -[1219.94 --> 1221.16] the Apostles' Creed. -[1223.24 --> 1232.00] I believe in God the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, and Jesus Christ, His -[1232.00 --> 1240.56] only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary, suffered -[1240.56 --> 1247.74] under Pontius Pilate, who was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into heaven. -[1248.26 --> 1255.08] The third day He rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and stood at the right -[1255.08 --> 1261.78] hand of God the Father Almighty. From there He shall come to judge the living and the dead. -[1262.60 --> 1270.30] I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness -[1270.30 --> 1276.64] of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. -[1276.64 --> 1276.72] Amen. -[1276.72 --> 1277.66] Amen. -[1284.22 --> 1284.58] Amen. -[1284.58 --> 1284.92] Amen. -[1284.92 --> 1285.74] Amen. -[1286.14 --> 1286.42] Amen. -[1286.42 --> 1286.98] Amen. -[1286.98 --> 1287.50] Amen. -[1287.50 --> 1287.68] Amen. -[1287.76 --> 1288.50] Amen. -[1288.50 --> 1289.02] Amen. -[1289.02 --> 1293.08] Amen. -[1293.22 --> 1293.26] Amen. -[1293.66 --> 1294.90] Amen. -[1294.90 --> 1295.60] Amen. -[1295.60 --> 1297.20] Amen. -[1297.20 --> 1297.22] Amen. -[1297.22 --> 1297.86] Amen. -[1297.86 --> 1298.58] Amen. -[1298.58 --> 1298.70] Amen. -[1298.70 --> 1301.18] Amen. -[1301.18 --> 1302.44] Amen. -[1302.66 --> 1303.66] Amen. -[1304.66 --> 1305.20] Amen. -[1305.58 --> 1306.26] Yes. -[1306.40 --> 1306.62] Amen. -[1306.62 --> 1308.62] Amen. -[1336.62 --> 1352.18] Silent as he stood accused, beaten, marked, and scored, -[1352.18 --> 1364.42] bowing to the Father's will, he took the crown of thorns. -[1364.42 --> 1377.36] O that broken cross, my salvation, where your love poured out over me, -[1377.36 --> 1389.98] now my soul cries out, Alleluia, praise and honor unto thee. -[1394.42 --> 1404.82] Sent of heaven, God's own Son, to purchase and redeem, -[1404.82 --> 1417.64] and reconcile the very ones who nailed it to that tree. -[1417.64 --> 1431.64] O that broken cross, my salvation, where your love poured out over me, -[1431.64 --> 1443.64] now my soul cries out, Alleluia, praise and honor unto thee. -[1443.64 --> 1460.64] Now my debt is paid, it is paid in full, By the precious blood that my Jesus spilled, -[1460.64 --> 1490.64] Now the curse of sin has no hold on me, -[1490.64 --> 1497.64] whom the Son sets free, O is free in thee. -[1497.64 --> 1509.64] O that broken cross, my salvation, where your love poured out over me, -[1509.64 --> 1522.64] Now my soul cries out, Alleluia, praise and honor unto thee. -[1522.64 --> 1538.64] See the stone is rolled away, Behold the empty tomb. -[1538.64 --> 1539.64] Alleluia, praise and honor unto thee. -[1539.64 --> 1540.64] The stone is filled, by the precious blood that my God poured out over me, -[1540.64 --> 1541.64] Alleluia, praise and honor unto thee. -[1541.64 --> 1551.60] Alleluia, God give praise, He's risen from the grave. -[1551.60 --> 1563.96] Oh, and look across my salvation, Great love poured out over Thee. -[1563.96 --> 1576.28] Now my soul cries out, Alleluia, Praise and honor unto Thee. -[1576.28 --> 1583.28] Praise and honor unto Thee. -[1593.96 --> 1600.96] Praise and honor unto Thee. -[1600.96 --> 1608.96] Now my soul cries out, Alleluia, Praise and honor unto Thee. -[1608.96 --> 1612.96] Praise and honor unto Thee. -[1612.96 --> 1616.96] Praise and honor unto Thee. -[1616.96 --> 1620.96] Praise and honor unto Thee. -[1620.96 --> 1625.96] Praise and honor to Thee. -[1625.96 --> 1627.96] milkychil. -[1627.96 --> 1629.96] Praise and honor unto Thee. -[1629.96 --> 1630.96] Praise and honor unto Thee. -[1630.96 --> 1631.96] Praise and honor to Thee. -[1631.96 --> 1632.96] Praise and honor to Thee. -[1632.96 --> 1633.96] Praise and honor to Thee. -[1633.96 --> 1634.96] Praise and honor to Thee. -[1634.96 --> 1635.96] piil. -[1635.96 --> 1639.96] Praise and honor and thee. -[1639.96 --> 1640.96] Theruah. -[1640.96 --> 1641.96] Faith and honor. -[1641.96 --> 1642.96] э generation. -[1642.96 --> 1643.96] Commander, Jesus, our thank you. -[1643.96 --> 1644.96] Praise and honor. -[1644.96 --> 1645.96] Thank you. -[1645.96 --> 1647.96] But within the the need for Alleluia, -[1647.96 --> 1649.96] our servant and the propher famy is. -[1649.96 --> 1656.04] When we see you, we find strength to face the day. -[1657.72 --> 1663.44] In your presence, all our fears are washed away. -[1663.82 --> 1665.58] Washed away. -[1669.54 --> 1673.58] Hosanna, Hosanna. -[1675.02 --> 1678.48] You are the God who saves us. -[1678.48 --> 1681.78] Worthy of all our praises. -[1684.32 --> 1689.18] Hosanna, Hosanna. -[1690.12 --> 1693.42] Come have your way among us. -[1693.80 --> 1696.72] We welcome you here, Lord Jesus. -[1696.72 --> 1708.72] Hear the sound of hearts returning to you. -[1708.72 --> 1712.26] We turn to you. -[1712.26 --> 1723.48] In your kingdom, broken lies are in you. -[1723.48 --> 1726.78] You make us new. -[1726.78 --> 1727.28] You make us new. -[1728.28 --> 1734.94] Because when we see you, we find strength to face the day. -[1735.94 --> 1742.08] In your presence, all our fears are washed away. -[1742.08 --> 1744.08] Washed away. -[1746.38 --> 1752.58] Hosanna, Hosanna. -[1753.42 --> 1756.88] You are the God who saves us. -[1757.38 --> 1760.08] Worthy of all our praises. -[1761.38 --> 1767.42] Hosanna, Hosanna. -[1767.42 --> 1770.42] Hosanna, Hosanna. -[1770.42 --> 1774.86] We welcome you here, Lord Jesus. -[1776.12 --> 1782.18] Hosanna, Hosanna. -[1782.18 --> 1786.48] You are the God who saves us. -[1787.02 --> 1789.70] Worthy of all our praises. -[1789.70 --> 1794.82] Hosanna, Hosanna. -[1794.82 --> 1796.84] Hosanna, Hosanna. -[1798.10 --> 1801.26] Come have your way among us. -[1801.26 --> 1804.60] You welcome you here, Lord Jesus. -[1819.70 --> 1829.24] Good morning. Blessed Easter to all of you. -[1830.74 --> 1837.44] We continue worship by giving our offerings, a thank offering for what God has done for us. -[1838.18 --> 1842.56] Today's offering is for the budget, which is the ministries of this church. -[1842.56 --> 1846.68] If you wish to give to that, then kindly designate it as such. -[1846.68 --> 1850.66] You can use the envelopes that are in the pockets of the chairs in front of you. -[1851.54 --> 1857.70] And our other offering in the undesignated monies then will be today for Life Water Canada. -[1858.68 --> 1866.80] Life Water Canada was an organization that was dear to our former pastor, Pastor Bill Verstegue. -[1866.80 --> 1875.56] And some of you might recall that he actually invented a gizmo using old telephone receivers to detect money. -[1875.56 --> 1876.68] Sorry, money. -[1877.06 --> 1881.56] To detect water in wells. -[1882.46 --> 1889.18] Life Water Canada was founded in 1987 by two men from Thunder Bay, Ontario. -[1889.80 --> 1894.50] One was a hydrologist and he was actually challenged to work out his faith. -[1894.50 --> 1896.12] And so what does he know best? -[1896.12 --> 1897.12] He knows water best. -[1897.12 --> 1908.36] So he headed off to Liberia where many wells were contaminated because of civil war and started digging wells there and founded Life Water Canada with another fellow from Thunder Bay. -[1908.36 --> 1916.36] And now the projects have extended into Libya, into Kenya, and also into Haiti. -[1916.36 --> 1923.86] And when wells are dug in those villages in those countries, it's life-changing for those villages. -[1923.86 --> 1927.24] The infant mortality rate goes down. -[1927.60 --> 1929.50] Kids aren't walking around with tummy aches anymore. -[1930.00 --> 1933.16] And the girls' time now is freed up so that they can go to school. -[1934.22 --> 1936.06] So each well costs about $5,000. -[1937.22 --> 1939.30] And so, yeah. -[1940.52 --> 1944.26] Scripture, we hear that when Jesus was on earth, he said, -[1944.68 --> 1946.82] I was thirsty and you gave me to drink. -[1946.82 --> 1950.98] So today, let's be the hands and feet of Jesus and give generously. -[1950.98 --> 1974.44] I know he rescued my soul. -[1974.44 --> 1978.84] His blood has covered my sin, I believe. -[1978.84 --> 1981.84] I believe. -[1981.84 --> 1982.40] I believe. -[1985.40 --> 1988.44] My shame is taken away. -[1989.44 --> 1992.08] My pain is healing his name. -[1992.16 --> 1993.28] I believe. -[1995.56 --> 1996.84] I believe. -[2000.10 --> 2002.36] I'll raise a banner. -[2004.08 --> 2006.86] My Lord has come to the grave. -[2006.86 --> 2008.48] My Redeemer. -[2008.84 --> 2009.94] My Redeemer is. -[2009.94 --> 2010.96] My Redeemer is. -[2010.96 --> 2013.90] My Redeemer is. -[2013.90 --> 2016.90] My Redeemer is. -[2016.90 --> 2017.24] My Redeemer is. -[2017.24 --> 2022.28] My Redeemer is. -[2023.60 --> 2029.06] I know he rescued my soul. -[2029.62 --> 2032.92] His blood has covered my sin, I believe. -[2032.92 --> 2034.30] I know he dong a Ramadan. -[2034.30 --> 2034.86] My fatigue is, I believe. -[2034.86 --> 2036.30] My государ is. -[2036.30 --> 2037.26] I understand is that! -[2037.26 --> 2037.54] My name is not her name. -[2037.54 --> 2039.20] My sin is this day, this day—R968. -[2039.26 --> 2039.84] I know he protected my sin. -[2040.88 --> 2041.06] I know he brings us. -[2041.06 --> 2041.18] My Breemer would tails kiş, O society of co-лушerry. -[2041.18 --> 2049.16] This is all you want tonight -[2049.16 --> 2051.16] I believe -[2051.16 --> 2056.84] I'll raise a banner -[2056.84 --> 2061.34] My Lord has conquered the grave -[2061.34 --> 2064.58] My Redeemer is -[2064.58 --> 2068.24] My Redeemer is -[2068.24 --> 2071.84] My Redeemer is -[2071.84 --> 2076.16] My Redeemer is -[2076.16 --> 2080.90] You lift my burdens -[2080.90 --> 2084.30] I'll rise in You -[2084.30 --> 2088.62] I'm dancing on this fountain top -[2088.62 --> 2092.26] To see Your kingdom come -[2092.26 --> 2097.28] My Redeemer is -[2097.28 --> 2100.80] My Redeemer is -[2100.80 --> 2104.38] My Redeemer is -[2104.38 --> 2111.32] My Redeemer is -[2111.32 --> 2114.70] My Redeemer is -[2114.70 --> 2118.60] My Redeemer is -[2118.60 --> 2123.78] My Redeemer is -[2123.78 --> 2144.54] Good morning, everybody. -[2144.54 --> 2150.18] Can I have the kids from preschool all the way up to grade four? -[2153.78 --> 2162.78] Can anybody tell me what special day it is? -[2162.78 --> 2165.78] Sunday, but what else? -[2165.78 --> 2166.78] Easter. -[2166.78 --> 2170.78] How do you guys celebrate Easter in your families? -[2170.78 --> 2172.78] Easter eggs. -[2172.78 --> 2174.78] How else do you celebrate? -[2174.78 --> 2181.78] Yep, we celebrate Jesus raising from the dead. -[2181.78 --> 2182.78] Yep. -[2182.78 --> 2184.78] Sometimes Easter bunny comes. -[2184.78 --> 2185.78] Sometimes Easter bunny comes, yep. -[2185.78 --> 2191.78] But today we are talking about Jesus raising from the dead and taking all our sins away -[2191.78 --> 2195.78] and how excited we are to share it with other people. -[2195.78 --> 2200.78] So today in Childers Worship Time, we're going to go back and we're going to do some activities -[2200.78 --> 2209.78] that we are going to learn a fun way to share Jesus' story and his hope that he gives us to others. -[2209.78 --> 2213.78] Can everybody stand up? -[2213.78 --> 2216.78] Yeah, I'll get your question and then, okay? -[2216.78 --> 2220.78] And today is Easter Sunday. -[2220.78 --> 2222.78] Yeah, it's Easter Sunday. -[2222.78 --> 2225.78] Okay, everybody look at the congregation. -[2225.78 --> 2226.78] One, two, three. -[2226.78 --> 2227.78] The Lord. -[2227.78 --> 2228.78] Be with you. -[2228.78 --> 2230.78] And also with you. -[2231.78 --> 2232.78] Steлатers W spreadsheet habr heaven switch over, -[2232.78 --> 2242.74] don't связь with you is to get the anchor -[2242.78 --> 2246.78] of his, tourer his, to terms of earth richacks. -[2246.78 --> 2264.00] Good morning, I'm Eric here, an elder at Emmanuel. -[2264.52 --> 2268.98] Today I just wanted to bring one prayer note before we come and join each other in our family prayer. -[2269.96 --> 2274.02] Tuesday is the last day of our nomination for pastoral elders and deacons in the office. -[2274.02 --> 2277.22] There are forms in the e-bulletins by the church office. -[2277.74 --> 2284.64] Please prayerfully consider who God has in mind for calling to serve our church family in this way. -[2287.34 --> 2288.96] I want a word of prayer this morning. -[2290.64 --> 2292.94] This is the day in which the Lord has made. -[2293.22 --> 2295.46] We will rejoice and be glad in it. -[2295.74 --> 2303.74] May the glory of Jesus' resurrection remind us that with you nothing is impossible or without hope. -[2304.78 --> 2307.50] At this time of year, so many of us struggle in silence. -[2308.24 --> 2312.80] We struggle with all sorts of health issues, whether physical or mental illness. -[2313.38 --> 2318.68] We pray that you, God, will surround us with your peace, comfort, and healing. -[2318.68 --> 2326.88] This morning we want to pray for Mina Veni, mother to Joanne Miles, great-grandmother to Megan. -[2327.76 --> 2333.58] She finds herself struggling with health issues and that she wants to go to eternal home. -[2334.16 --> 2339.36] We pray that she may have a peaceful passing into glory soon. -[2339.36 --> 2347.02] Today, we praise you for successful surgery on Matt Schaap as he had knee constructive surgery. -[2347.34 --> 2351.32] Comfort him in his healing process that everything will go back to normal soon. -[2351.32 --> 2360.00] We also want to think of Emily Klingelting as she as well went through knee surgery and that the healing process is working there as well, Lord. -[2360.78 --> 2366.60] Lord, we want to pray this morning for the students as many of them are in their home stretch, -[2366.72 --> 2371.76] in particular the university and college students as they write their final exams and finish their final projects. -[2372.14 --> 2376.56] Comfort, calm their nerves and protect them in their travels. -[2376.56 --> 2380.82] Today, we pray for council nomination process. -[2381.22 --> 2384.74] We pray that the Holy Spirit will guide and inspire those being nominated, -[2385.20 --> 2390.14] lead them to step into the roles in their hearts and serve and love. -[2390.84 --> 2395.98] Lord, today we celebrate with the Klingeltings as Austin Nichols Sills, -[2396.40 --> 2401.82] number 13th grandchild, was given this week to Liz and Gary. -[2403.08 --> 2405.80] Lord, we thank you for so many different blessings in this church. -[2406.56 --> 2410.78] Lord, we give thanks to you for he is good, his love endures forever. -[2411.40 --> 2411.68] Amen. -[2411.68 --> 2411.80] Amen. -[2411.80 --> 2439.52] We're going to spend some time together in God's word, looking at the story of the resurrection as it's told to us in the Gospel of Luke. -[2439.52 --> 2446.44] So we're going to read from Luke 24, the first 12 verses of that chapter. -[2447.06 --> 2451.16] I invite you to open that up in a Bible, in your hands or on your devices. -[2451.36 --> 2454.32] There's a couple at the back if you'd like to grab one to read along there. -[2456.10 --> 2459.52] The first time we go through it will be on the screen behind me. -[2459.52 --> 2466.06] From Luke 24. -[2466.06 --> 2474.90] On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. -[2475.72 --> 2482.10] They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. -[2482.10 --> 2490.46] While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. -[2491.26 --> 2495.46] In their fright, the women bowed down with their faces to the ground. -[2495.80 --> 2497.06] But the men said to them, -[2497.06 --> 2517.68] Then they remembered his words. -[2517.68 --> 2544.42] Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb. -[2544.42 --> 2554.88] This is the word of the Lord. -[2560.42 --> 2566.20] Now, I'll start with a trigger warning for some of you. -[2566.20 --> 2568.82] I'm going to talk about the election. -[2571.60 --> 2573.96] I don't know if you know, but we're in an election season. -[2575.50 --> 2582.22] Part of what that means is that you have the different political parties talking about their platforms -[2582.22 --> 2585.38] and what they think will be good for our country going forward. -[2585.46 --> 2588.62] Now, I am not going to weigh in one way or the other on that. -[2589.26 --> 2591.58] If you want my personal opinion, we can talk after church. -[2591.58 --> 2599.60] But this week, parties have released or are about to release their costed platforms. -[2600.64 --> 2604.58] Part of that discussion includes looking at our national debt. -[2605.92 --> 2608.42] I don't know if any of you have ever thought about our national debt, -[2608.90 --> 2612.66] but currently Canada sits in debt at about $3 trillion. -[2615.30 --> 2616.68] Now, why do I bring this up? -[2616.68 --> 2620.10] Because honestly, that number means nothing to me. -[2621.04 --> 2622.90] Like, that's a nonsense number. -[2623.72 --> 2627.96] I cannot begin to wrap my head around the quantity, the amount. -[2628.34 --> 2630.72] It's functionally meaningless. -[2632.12 --> 2635.10] And so when everyone talks about how important it is, candidly, -[2635.64 --> 2637.34] like, I just don't get it. -[2637.42 --> 2640.98] Because that number doesn't make sense to me. -[2640.98 --> 2646.82] Now, the reason I bring this up, because I think it's a modern analog -[2646.82 --> 2654.40] to how the disciples and the people around him felt and first experienced the resurrection. -[2655.32 --> 2656.90] It doesn't make sense. -[2657.36 --> 2659.20] It's a nonsense reality. -[2661.50 --> 2663.24] And that's what I want us to look at this morning. -[2664.22 --> 2669.16] My theme for today comes from verse 11 of the text we read, -[2669.16 --> 2670.46] where we read, -[2670.62 --> 2676.38] they did not believe the women because their words seemed to them like nonsense. -[2679.46 --> 2687.88] What does it mean to have resurrection faith in an age of nonsense? -[2689.36 --> 2693.92] Or to have faith in nonsense when nonsense seems to be the norm? -[2693.92 --> 2699.76] Now, here's the thing before we start. -[2700.74 --> 2703.72] We say this, or a version of this, all the time. -[2704.22 --> 2706.88] If you listen to the Narthex podcast, -[2707.04 --> 2710.14] Josh has made this refrain famous. -[2710.66 --> 2713.96] The truth is, the Bible was not written to you. -[2714.12 --> 2715.86] It was written for you. -[2717.16 --> 2720.52] And part of what that means is that the world and the culture of the Bible -[2720.52 --> 2724.94] are different than our own, and that is important to recognize -[2724.94 --> 2727.28] if you're going to read the Bible correctly. -[2728.90 --> 2729.12] Right? -[2730.08 --> 2733.90] There's a wrong way to read the Bible. -[2733.90 --> 2744.38] And sometimes we come at stories like this from the perspective of, -[2744.86 --> 2747.70] well, you know, now we know better. -[2748.64 --> 2751.24] Now we understand the world better. -[2752.24 --> 2752.46] Right? -[2752.50 --> 2757.36] Now we've understood that how things like this happen naturally. -[2757.36 --> 2764.92] There's a sort of, like, prideful privileging of the contemporary perspective -[2764.92 --> 2769.14] that kind of assumes that people were, back then, -[2769.34 --> 2774.48] perhaps not less intelligent, but they knew less about the world. -[2775.56 --> 2778.68] And therefore, because they knew less, there was more gaps, -[2778.86 --> 2780.36] and they had to believe more. -[2781.22 --> 2784.74] They made sense of the world through myths and gods -[2784.74 --> 2786.30] and things like the spiritual. -[2786.92 --> 2790.78] And while those things still sort of exist in some way, -[2791.10 --> 2794.52] what we know is that we make better sense of the world now. -[2795.62 --> 2796.12] Right? -[2796.16 --> 2799.10] We have better means or other means. -[2799.96 --> 2804.06] Now, I don't have time to parse all of that out this morning, -[2804.46 --> 2807.60] but I do want us to notice something about the resurrection. -[2808.04 --> 2808.18] Okay? -[2809.24 --> 2813.00] The resurrection didn't make sense to the disciples. -[2813.00 --> 2813.40] Right? -[2814.66 --> 2818.24] Their words seemed to them like nonsense. -[2819.50 --> 2822.28] And so even though sometimes we look at the Bible and we think, -[2822.36 --> 2824.92] oh, we know better today and we think differently now, -[2825.06 --> 2826.86] I don't want you to come at this story, -[2826.94 --> 2829.82] the story of the resurrection, from that place. -[2829.84 --> 2833.38] Because resurrection doesn't make sense in the ancient world either. -[2835.06 --> 2835.54] Right? -[2835.56 --> 2839.34] It doesn't make any more sense then as it does now. -[2840.22 --> 2840.70] Right? -[2840.70 --> 2844.72] Resurrection was just as nonsense sounding then as it was today. -[2845.84 --> 2846.76] And here's the point. -[2847.46 --> 2848.70] An interesting point in this. -[2849.04 --> 2852.68] The word that Luke uses that means nonsense, -[2852.90 --> 2854.46] it's the Greek word leros, -[2854.90 --> 2857.44] it's only used here in the Bible. -[2858.58 --> 2861.00] But it's actually an old Greek word, -[2861.14 --> 2862.16] an Attic Greek word, -[2862.26 --> 2864.70] so predating the Greek that was used during this time. -[2864.70 --> 2870.22] And it's a word that shows up in what's called the Hippocratic Corpus. -[2870.76 --> 2875.00] Now, the Hippocratic Corpus is like the WebMD of the ancient world. -[2876.28 --> 2876.90] Right? -[2876.94 --> 2881.48] It's a collection of medical writings from the school of Hippocrates. -[2882.16 --> 2884.96] Maybe you've heard of the phrase the Hippocratic Oath. -[2885.34 --> 2885.52] Right? -[2885.62 --> 2886.34] Do no harm. -[2886.34 --> 2891.88] So Hippocrates was a 4th century BC physician and philosopher. -[2892.24 --> 2896.76] And his school around him collected all of these medical documents -[2896.76 --> 2899.96] and writings about health and well-being. -[2900.74 --> 2905.24] And in the collection of writings associated with Hippocrates, -[2905.24 --> 2910.16] the word leros is used to describe irrational speech, -[2910.66 --> 2912.74] hallucinations, and delirium -[2912.74 --> 2916.50] that's associated with illness or really high fevers. -[2917.52 --> 2919.20] You ever seen someone with a really high fever -[2919.20 --> 2920.68] and they start to say nonsense? -[2920.98 --> 2922.42] That's how this word is used. -[2923.84 --> 2927.58] Point is, the disciples are more likely to believe -[2927.58 --> 2930.54] the women are delirious, are hallucinating, -[2931.04 --> 2932.54] than that Jesus was raised. -[2932.54 --> 2937.86] That's not really that different from today. -[2939.56 --> 2941.64] So to be clear and sure, right, -[2941.72 --> 2944.36] that the resurrection doesn't make sense. -[2944.80 --> 2947.26] Not because it's irrational, -[2947.86 --> 2951.60] but because it doesn't fit into the existing framework -[2951.60 --> 2954.78] of perception and expectation and meaning. -[2957.82 --> 2962.34] That is the world and work of sense-making. -[2963.16 --> 2965.64] Perception, expectation, and meaning -[2965.64 --> 2969.04] is the area of focus and thought -[2969.04 --> 2971.98] where we make sense of the world. -[2972.78 --> 2974.74] I want to play with that word a little bit this morning. -[2975.82 --> 2981.10] The word sense has kind of two meanings with us, right? -[2981.10 --> 2986.00] We use the word sense in reference to our physical perception. -[2986.00 --> 2991.32] What do we call sight, touch, taste, smell, and hearing? -[2991.50 --> 2994.46] Our five senses, exactly. -[2995.72 --> 3000.74] But sense also has always included comprehension -[3000.74 --> 3003.34] or even emotional aspects. -[3004.42 --> 3008.78] Think about when a math problem clicks for the very first time. -[3009.72 --> 3010.72] You go, that makes sense. -[3010.72 --> 3011.36] Right? -[3012.30 --> 3012.92] It adds up. -[3013.28 --> 3014.10] It lines up. -[3014.26 --> 3018.70] Or think about when you empathize with someone after a loss, right? -[3018.72 --> 3020.40] And they're explaining their hurt, and you say, -[3020.74 --> 3022.34] yeah, that makes sense. -[3023.94 --> 3024.42] Right? -[3024.44 --> 3027.10] It's not that you can touch, taste, see, or smell -[3027.10 --> 3028.82] what it is that they're feeling, -[3029.38 --> 3030.14] but it fits. -[3030.56 --> 3033.36] It accords with what we know to be true. -[3033.36 --> 3040.00] And so nonsense, right, is the thing or the lack of a thing -[3040.00 --> 3042.82] with a lack of meaning or a lack of coherence -[3042.82 --> 3046.90] or a lack of a correspondence to reality as we understand it. -[3047.68 --> 3049.58] And again, in the world of the disciples -[3049.58 --> 3051.10] and in the world of today, -[3051.36 --> 3054.86] we can see how the resurrection doesn't make sense -[3054.86 --> 3056.58] because it doesn't cohere, -[3056.84 --> 3061.50] it doesn't line up with what we ordinarily experience as reality. -[3061.50 --> 3063.42] We can't make sense of it. -[3065.06 --> 3066.38] But here's the thing. -[3069.82 --> 3072.06] As we talk about sense-making, -[3073.58 --> 3078.66] people in our day and age -[3078.66 --> 3085.28] have lost the sense to make sense of the world. -[3086.44 --> 3087.40] Now, here's what I mean, right? -[3087.40 --> 3089.94] And you can experience this all over social media, -[3090.16 --> 3091.84] in Discord servers, on YouTube, -[3092.34 --> 3094.58] in your coffee shops, and around. -[3094.72 --> 3097.90] People are trying to make sense of the world. -[3098.88 --> 3098.96] Right? -[3099.10 --> 3102.18] Sense-making and sense and meaning-making -[3102.18 --> 3103.30] are two terms, -[3103.70 --> 3106.52] for those of you who are interested in this sort of thing, -[3106.84 --> 3109.40] two terms that have skyrocketed -[3109.94 --> 3112.58] in their use in SEO key terms. -[3112.90 --> 3115.60] For those of you who know internet sleuthing, -[3115.60 --> 3119.36] SEO key terms are things that you put sort of behind the main page. -[3119.44 --> 3122.02] You write it into the code of your website -[3122.02 --> 3123.80] so that when people are searching terms, -[3123.94 --> 3125.10] yours comes up on top. -[3125.66 --> 3127.38] Sense-making and meaning-making are terms -[3127.38 --> 3130.42] that have been coded into SEO algorithms -[3130.42 --> 3133.12] in order to drive traffic to these conversations -[3133.12 --> 3134.98] because this is what people are talking about. -[3136.56 --> 3138.54] Now, this idea of sense-making, -[3139.02 --> 3141.18] I've been doing a bit of a deep dive into this, -[3141.18 --> 3146.04] originally comes in the 60s in organizational psychology, -[3146.04 --> 3150.44] and it's come to mean something of the development -[3150.44 --> 3154.30] of plausible images and structures and stories -[3154.30 --> 3157.06] to explain, to make sense of, -[3157.56 --> 3161.76] what people do and how we exist in the world. -[3161.76 --> 3167.30] Now, I trust that many of you have experienced -[3167.30 --> 3172.42] that over the last 50, 30, and 10 years, -[3172.82 --> 3177.14] we've seen a shift in how people make sense of the world. -[3178.48 --> 3179.60] In the past, -[3179.78 --> 3182.08] and some of us still see the world this way, -[3182.94 --> 3184.18] but in the past, -[3184.30 --> 3186.76] making sense of the world required measurements, -[3187.60 --> 3189.82] it required reason and observation, -[3189.82 --> 3191.20] and nothing else. -[3191.88 --> 3195.08] What is real is what can be sensed -[3195.08 --> 3196.32] through our five senses, -[3196.48 --> 3198.14] through the material sense. -[3198.46 --> 3199.32] I have to touch it, -[3199.36 --> 3200.04] I have to taste it, -[3200.06 --> 3200.66] I have to see it, -[3200.68 --> 3201.34] I have to smell it, -[3201.48 --> 3202.46] I have to hear it. -[3203.70 --> 3206.52] And that ended up creating this gap, -[3206.68 --> 3208.68] this missing room. -[3208.82 --> 3211.44] There was no room left for transcendence -[3211.44 --> 3213.92] or for mystery or for enchantment. -[3215.06 --> 3216.30] In that frame, -[3216.30 --> 3219.28] religion became the nonsense -[3219.28 --> 3221.82] of secular rationalism. -[3222.46 --> 3225.42] And the goal of this sort of secular frame -[3225.42 --> 3227.78] was to disenchant the world. -[3228.74 --> 3230.74] The Enlightenment project aimed -[3230.74 --> 3232.00] to make sense of the world -[3232.00 --> 3233.48] by demystifying it. -[3234.34 --> 3235.44] And in so doing, -[3235.56 --> 3238.96] it made certain kinds of sense-making impossible. -[3240.34 --> 3240.98] Now again, -[3241.04 --> 3242.24] we've seen shifts, right? -[3242.24 --> 3242.98] In large part, -[3242.98 --> 3245.40] in reaction to the extremes of that. -[3245.80 --> 3246.54] In large part, -[3246.64 --> 3248.86] recognition of the anemic void -[3248.86 --> 3250.06] that that left behind -[3250.06 --> 3251.90] when half of what it means to be human, -[3252.00 --> 3252.90] because as humans, -[3253.04 --> 3254.88] we are both body and soul, -[3255.08 --> 3257.74] we are material and spiritual, -[3258.14 --> 3259.78] and when half of that is cut off -[3259.78 --> 3260.84] from being real, -[3261.18 --> 3261.98] there's a reaction. -[3262.42 --> 3263.90] And so postmodernism -[3263.90 --> 3266.12] sort of deconstructs the notion -[3266.12 --> 3268.76] of a unified and objective sense -[3268.76 --> 3270.36] of the world. -[3271.16 --> 3272.30] And in that move, -[3272.74 --> 3272.90] right, -[3273.00 --> 3274.68] grand narratives collapse -[3274.68 --> 3278.16] and now exists multiple truths, -[3278.40 --> 3280.00] each a sort of sense -[3280.00 --> 3281.82] from within a community -[3281.82 --> 3283.18] or within a story. -[3284.32 --> 3285.56] But this too -[3285.56 --> 3287.82] has kind of led to an exhaustion. -[3289.52 --> 3289.70] Right? -[3289.80 --> 3291.86] If everything is interpretation, -[3292.36 --> 3293.46] which is what the French -[3293.46 --> 3294.74] postmodern philosopher -[3294.74 --> 3296.00] Jacques Derrida said, -[3296.00 --> 3297.88] if everything is interpretation, -[3298.32 --> 3299.40] can anything be true? -[3301.60 --> 3302.80] Turns out, -[3303.12 --> 3304.86] postmodernism didn't kill truth. -[3305.32 --> 3306.54] It just revealed to us -[3306.54 --> 3307.44] how much we need it. -[3308.72 --> 3309.88] But now, -[3310.06 --> 3311.24] we're living in this -[3311.24 --> 3312.48] new, -[3312.68 --> 3314.10] yet third -[3314.10 --> 3315.84] sort of way. -[3316.02 --> 3318.02] And people are calling this time -[3318.02 --> 3319.64] various different names. -[3320.06 --> 3321.00] Post-postmodernism, -[3321.82 --> 3323.06] post-secularism -[3323.06 --> 3323.80] is one. -[3323.80 --> 3324.70] A new one -[3324.70 --> 3325.72] that I recently learned -[3325.72 --> 3327.30] is metamodernity. -[3329.56 --> 3330.08] Metamodern -[3330.08 --> 3330.68] is a term -[3330.68 --> 3331.62] that I just learned -[3331.62 --> 3332.18] at a lecture -[3332.18 --> 3333.78] at TWU. -[3334.34 --> 3335.06] It was the inaugural -[3335.06 --> 3336.72] lecture for the chair -[3336.72 --> 3337.88] of New Testament Studies, -[3338.04 --> 3338.94] Dr. Kent Clark. -[3340.24 --> 3340.98] And since then, -[3341.02 --> 3341.62] I've been doing -[3341.62 --> 3342.32] a deep dive -[3342.32 --> 3343.86] into this sort of thing. -[3343.96 --> 3344.18] And so, -[3344.26 --> 3345.04] bear with me -[3345.04 --> 3345.74] for a moment -[3345.74 --> 3347.66] because I'm in a nerd out -[3347.66 --> 3348.72] and I hope you can come along -[3348.72 --> 3349.26] for the journey. -[3349.58 --> 3350.34] But I think the payoff -[3350.34 --> 3350.84] is great. -[3350.84 --> 3352.92] And so, -[3353.02 --> 3353.58] there are two -[3353.58 --> 3354.34] contemporary -[3354.34 --> 3356.30] cultural theorists -[3356.30 --> 3358.16] by the name of -[3358.16 --> 3359.08] Vermillion and -[3359.08 --> 3359.70] Vandenacker -[3359.70 --> 3361.84] who define -[3361.84 --> 3363.30] metamodernism for us. -[3363.34 --> 3363.84] And I'm going to share -[3363.84 --> 3364.46] this with you. -[3366.46 --> 3367.10] Metamodernism -[3367.10 --> 3368.16] oscillates -[3368.16 --> 3369.30] between the modern -[3369.30 --> 3370.50] and the postmodern. -[3370.96 --> 3371.90] It oscillates -[3371.90 --> 3372.78] between a modern -[3372.78 --> 3373.54] enthusiasm -[3373.54 --> 3374.86] and a postmodern -[3374.86 --> 3375.46] irony, -[3375.88 --> 3376.78] between hope -[3376.78 --> 3378.70] and melancholy, -[3378.70 --> 3379.84] between naivete -[3379.84 --> 3381.16] and knowingness, -[3381.56 --> 3381.92] empathy -[3381.92 --> 3382.94] and apathy, -[3383.20 --> 3383.48] unity -[3383.48 --> 3384.54] and plurality, -[3384.70 --> 3385.24] totality -[3385.24 --> 3386.24] and fragmentation, -[3386.68 --> 3386.98] purity -[3386.98 --> 3388.02] and ambiguity. -[3391.72 --> 3392.88] I don't know -[3392.88 --> 3394.86] how you -[3394.86 --> 3395.42] have been -[3395.42 --> 3395.94] experiencing -[3395.94 --> 3396.94] life lately, -[3397.66 --> 3398.72] but for the people -[3398.72 --> 3399.60] that I talk to -[3399.60 --> 3400.10] and honestly, -[3400.22 --> 3400.86] especially those -[3400.86 --> 3401.52] under 35, -[3402.00 --> 3402.82] this is it. -[3404.76 --> 3405.94] Vermillion goes on -[3405.94 --> 3406.40] and he says, -[3406.40 --> 3407.58] grand narratives -[3407.58 --> 3409.10] are as necessary -[3409.10 --> 3410.26] as they are problematic. -[3411.42 --> 3412.60] Hope is not simply -[3412.60 --> 3413.90] something to distrust. -[3414.36 --> 3415.62] Love is not necessarily -[3415.62 --> 3417.08] something to be ridiculed. -[3418.74 --> 3419.38] And all of this -[3419.38 --> 3420.12] kind of echoes -[3420.12 --> 3421.38] what Charles Taylor -[3421.38 --> 3423.02] describes, -[3423.44 --> 3423.70] I think, -[3423.80 --> 3424.34] perfectly -[3424.34 --> 3425.68] the way of -[3425.68 --> 3426.60] sense-making -[3426.60 --> 3427.64] for people today. -[3428.14 --> 3428.46] And again, -[3428.52 --> 3428.88] like I said, -[3428.94 --> 3429.68] especially for those -[3429.68 --> 3430.70] who are younger than I am. -[3431.16 --> 3432.02] We live in this -[3432.02 --> 3433.34] post-secular age -[3433.34 --> 3434.40] not because -[3434.40 --> 3435.76] everyone believes, -[3435.76 --> 3436.74] but because -[3436.74 --> 3437.94] everyone is feeling -[3437.94 --> 3439.24] the pull of belief -[3439.24 --> 3440.00] in some way. -[3441.22 --> 3441.74] One writer -[3441.74 --> 3442.36] described it -[3442.36 --> 3442.66] and said, -[3442.98 --> 3443.96] as much as it -[3443.96 --> 3444.88] seemed real, -[3445.64 --> 3446.46] it also appeared -[3446.46 --> 3446.94] foolish. -[3447.88 --> 3448.88] As much as he -[3448.88 --> 3449.62] believed it, -[3450.14 --> 3450.90] he doubted it. -[3452.72 --> 3453.30] Our -[3453.30 --> 3453.94] meta-modern -[3453.94 --> 3454.44] world, -[3454.64 --> 3455.28] the context -[3455.28 --> 3455.94] where we now -[3455.94 --> 3456.58] believe, -[3456.90 --> 3458.38] is cut through -[3458.38 --> 3460.08] with the cross-pressures -[3460.08 --> 3461.12] of secular life -[3461.12 --> 3462.60] denying transcendence -[3462.60 --> 3463.32] and the spiritual -[3463.32 --> 3464.94] and that is also -[3464.94 --> 3466.34] permeated with the -[3466.34 --> 3467.26] constant haunting -[3467.26 --> 3468.16] of our souls -[3468.16 --> 3469.34] longing for there -[3469.34 --> 3470.10] to be more than -[3470.10 --> 3471.36] what my eyes can see, -[3471.78 --> 3472.52] longing for the -[3472.52 --> 3473.48] transcendent and the -[3473.48 --> 3475.06] spiritual to return -[3475.06 --> 3476.56] knowing that it is -[3476.56 --> 3476.84] real. -[3478.58 --> 3479.74] The only thing -[3479.74 --> 3480.72] that makes sense -[3480.72 --> 3482.02] in the world today -[3482.02 --> 3482.86] is that certain -[3482.86 --> 3483.74] things won't make -[3483.74 --> 3485.42] sense and I -[3485.42 --> 3486.28] still believe them. -[3488.28 --> 3489.52] Doubt and faith -[3489.52 --> 3490.60] come as one -[3490.60 --> 3491.60] in the world -[3491.60 --> 3491.92] today. -[3493.56 --> 3494.40] And as much -[3494.40 --> 3495.12] as we believe -[3495.12 --> 3496.30] and are convinced, -[3497.04 --> 3497.64] doubt makes us -[3497.64 --> 3497.96] wonder. -[3498.88 --> 3499.62] And as much -[3499.62 --> 3500.26] as we wonder -[3500.26 --> 3500.94] and doubt, -[3501.20 --> 3502.08] we also know -[3502.08 --> 3502.80] with a personal -[3502.80 --> 3504.12] certainty that -[3504.12 --> 3505.06] this is the only -[3505.06 --> 3505.68] thing that makes -[3505.68 --> 3506.04] sense. -[3507.20 --> 3508.36] At exactly the -[3508.36 --> 3508.90] same time, -[3508.96 --> 3509.68] I know this -[3509.68 --> 3510.36] to be true -[3510.36 --> 3511.24] and I -[3511.24 --> 3512.58] can't imagine -[3512.58 --> 3513.92] how this works. -[3515.78 --> 3516.70] And I think -[3516.70 --> 3518.52] that what God -[3518.52 --> 3519.14] is drawing -[3519.14 --> 3520.34] out for us -[3520.34 --> 3521.18] to see this -[3521.18 --> 3522.34] Resurrection Sunday -[3522.34 --> 3523.60] 2,000 years -[3523.60 --> 3524.62] later in a -[3524.62 --> 3525.46] now meta-modern -[3525.46 --> 3526.28] world as we're -[3526.28 --> 3526.90] trying to make -[3526.90 --> 3527.62] sense of this -[3527.62 --> 3528.94] story is that -[3528.94 --> 3529.92] yes, the -[3529.92 --> 3531.00] resurrection does -[3531.00 --> 3532.40] not fit their -[3532.40 --> 3532.96] world. -[3533.80 --> 3534.52] That's why the -[3534.52 --> 3535.32] women's message -[3535.32 --> 3536.10] seemed like -[3536.10 --> 3536.68] nonsense. -[3537.88 --> 3538.74] But the reality -[3538.74 --> 3539.38] for us, the -[3539.38 --> 3540.28] greater reality, -[3540.60 --> 3541.14] the truer -[3541.14 --> 3542.90] reality is that -[3542.90 --> 3544.82] Jesus and his -[3544.82 --> 3545.64] resurrection -[3545.64 --> 3547.38] isn't -[3547.38 --> 3548.38] nonsense, -[3549.14 --> 3550.14] it's the -[3550.14 --> 3551.28] start of a -[3551.28 --> 3552.16] new sense, -[3552.80 --> 3554.00] a new sense -[3554.00 --> 3554.96] of seeing the -[3554.96 --> 3555.88] world, a new -[3555.88 --> 3556.50] sense of -[3556.50 --> 3557.30] understanding the -[3557.30 --> 3557.90] world, a new -[3557.90 --> 3559.10] creation, a new -[3559.10 --> 3559.60] cosmos. -[3560.18 --> 3560.60] Resurrection -[3560.60 --> 3561.60] faith is not -[3561.60 --> 3563.18] irrational, it's -[3563.18 --> 3564.50] supra-rational, -[3564.76 --> 3565.96] it remakes the -[3565.96 --> 3566.62] imagination. -[3567.44 --> 3568.06] The resurrection -[3568.06 --> 3569.94] redefines what is -[3569.94 --> 3571.10] possible and so -[3571.10 --> 3571.72] the resurrection -[3571.72 --> 3573.26] offers for us a -[3573.26 --> 3574.48] new sense of -[3574.48 --> 3575.52] what makes sense. -[3577.16 --> 3577.86] And here's the -[3577.86 --> 3578.24] thing. -[3579.94 --> 3581.60] Faith, faith -[3581.60 --> 3582.96] involves a -[3582.96 --> 3583.98] commitment to a -[3583.98 --> 3585.32] particular way of -[3585.32 --> 3586.84] understanding the -[3586.84 --> 3589.06] world, which -[3589.06 --> 3590.80] itself becomes a -[3590.80 --> 3592.24] lens through which -[3592.24 --> 3593.74] evidence is -[3593.74 --> 3594.32] interpreted. -[3595.66 --> 3596.66] And so faith is -[3596.66 --> 3598.16] not belief in spite -[3598.16 --> 3600.22] of evidence, faith -[3600.22 --> 3601.76] is belief in a new -[3601.76 --> 3602.90] kind of evidence. -[3603.72 --> 3604.48] That's what the -[3604.48 --> 3605.38] resurrection does. -[3605.38 --> 3606.94] And in fact, I -[3606.94 --> 3607.78] think as Christians, -[3608.02 --> 3608.94] we want to go even -[3608.94 --> 3609.40] further. -[3610.80 --> 3611.46] The resurrection -[3611.46 --> 3612.72] provides not just a -[3612.72 --> 3614.30] new, but the -[3614.30 --> 3615.92] necessary framework -[3615.92 --> 3617.52] for making sense of -[3617.52 --> 3617.94] the world. -[3618.66 --> 3619.48] And without the -[3619.48 --> 3620.94] resurrection, actually, -[3621.26 --> 3622.30] the world lacks -[3622.30 --> 3623.08] coherence. -[3624.62 --> 3625.86] It's without the -[3625.86 --> 3626.80] resurrection that the -[3626.80 --> 3627.52] world doesn't make -[3627.52 --> 3627.90] sense. -[3628.38 --> 3629.42] It turns out that the -[3629.42 --> 3630.96] resurrection is not -[3630.96 --> 3631.60] nonsense. -[3632.06 --> 3633.18] The world without the -[3633.18 --> 3634.40] resurrection is -[3634.40 --> 3635.02] nonsense. -[3637.82 --> 3638.84] Make no mistake -[3638.84 --> 3639.38] about it. -[3640.20 --> 3641.82] The sense-making -[3641.82 --> 3643.24] crisis that's -[3643.24 --> 3643.92] happening in the -[3643.92 --> 3644.46] world today, this -[3644.46 --> 3645.28] meaning-making -[3645.28 --> 3646.38] crisis that we find -[3646.38 --> 3647.50] ourselves living in -[3647.50 --> 3648.88] the midst of, is a -[3648.88 --> 3649.96] spiritual crisis. -[3650.20 --> 3651.06] It's perhaps the -[3651.06 --> 3652.78] spiritual crisis of -[3652.78 --> 3653.36] our age. -[3653.36 --> 3655.64] And in an age of -[3655.64 --> 3657.34] information overload and -[3657.34 --> 3659.20] meaning fragmentation, we -[3659.20 --> 3660.18] don't lack data. -[3660.96 --> 3662.20] We lack sense. -[3663.06 --> 3664.16] We lack the thing that -[3664.16 --> 3664.96] holds it together. -[3665.08 --> 3666.12] We lack something that -[3666.12 --> 3667.40] pulls it all together to -[3667.40 --> 3668.42] give it meaning and -[3668.42 --> 3670.00] purpose and truth and -[3670.00 --> 3670.70] reality. -[3671.60 --> 3673.88] The resurrection speaks -[3673.88 --> 3675.36] into that crisis. -[3675.90 --> 3677.64] Not as one more -[3677.64 --> 3679.20] competing narrative in a -[3679.20 --> 3679.82] list of other -[3679.82 --> 3680.74] narratives, but the -[3680.74 --> 3681.94] resurrection is actually -[3681.94 --> 3683.68] the one true story that -[3683.68 --> 3684.80] reorders all other -[3684.80 --> 3685.42] stories. -[3686.52 --> 3687.86] Turns out the cross and -[3687.86 --> 3688.68] the resurrection of -[3688.68 --> 3689.96] Jesus are not just -[3689.96 --> 3691.18] events within the -[3691.18 --> 3691.52] world. -[3691.80 --> 3692.58] The cross and the -[3692.58 --> 3693.48] resurrection of Jesus -[3693.48 --> 3695.30] are events upon which -[3695.30 --> 3697.74] the world hinges, on -[3697.74 --> 3698.76] which the world turns. -[3699.28 --> 3701.06] Everything changes with -[3701.06 --> 3701.86] the resurrection of -[3701.86 --> 3702.28] Jesus. -[3704.00 --> 3704.64] Because of the -[3704.64 --> 3705.76] resurrection, Jeremy -[3705.76 --> 3707.80] Treat says, because of -[3707.80 --> 3709.04] the resurrection, the -[3709.04 --> 3710.80] cross becomes not only the -[3710.80 --> 3711.86] center of redemptive -[3711.86 --> 3713.36] history, but also the -[3713.36 --> 3714.46] fulcrum upon which the -[3714.46 --> 3715.76] logic of the world is -[3715.76 --> 3716.98] turned upside down. -[3717.84 --> 3719.16] Shame is transformed into -[3719.16 --> 3720.86] glory, foolishness into -[3720.86 --> 3722.80] wisdom, humiliation into -[3722.80 --> 3723.70] exaltation. -[3725.06 --> 3727.38] In fact, it's only by the -[3727.38 --> 3728.54] resurrection and the -[3728.54 --> 3729.80] power of the resurrection -[3729.80 --> 3731.36] can some of the most -[3731.36 --> 3733.56] awful things begin to make -[3733.56 --> 3734.00] sense. -[3734.74 --> 3737.12] Now carefully, don't hear -[3737.12 --> 3737.84] what I'm not saying. -[3737.84 --> 3740.28] Okay, I'm not trying to -[3740.28 --> 3741.48] pretend that your trauma -[3741.48 --> 3742.70] is reasonable. -[3744.28 --> 3744.74] Right? -[3744.76 --> 3745.66] I'm not trying to say that -[3745.66 --> 3746.70] the death of your child -[3746.70 --> 3747.98] adds up to something -[3747.98 --> 3748.42] greater. -[3749.72 --> 3750.22] Right? -[3750.28 --> 3750.98] Don't hear that. -[3751.84 --> 3753.82] What I'm saying is that -[3753.82 --> 3755.62] only if the resurrection -[3755.62 --> 3757.52] is real can the most -[3757.52 --> 3759.16] awful parts of your life -[3759.16 --> 3760.12] be redeemed. -[3761.24 --> 3761.74] Right? -[3761.78 --> 3762.98] If the resurrection isn't -[3762.98 --> 3764.20] real, we are most of all -[3764.20 --> 3765.64] to be pitied because we are -[3765.64 --> 3766.82] stuck in this pointless -[3766.82 --> 3767.34] trauma. -[3767.54 --> 3768.96] We are stuck in pointless -[3768.96 --> 3770.12] trauma after pointless -[3770.12 --> 3770.54] trauma. -[3770.84 --> 3772.32] And that, that's what -[3772.32 --> 3773.22] doesn't make sense. -[3774.74 --> 3776.50] The resurrection is not -[3776.50 --> 3777.26] nonsense. -[3777.52 --> 3778.84] The resurrection is a new -[3778.84 --> 3779.54] sense. -[3779.66 --> 3781.74] It is a call to reorient our -[3781.74 --> 3783.38] entire interpretive framework -[3783.38 --> 3784.86] towards resurrection. -[3786.26 --> 3786.38] Right? -[3786.46 --> 3788.76] Life only makes sense in -[3788.76 --> 3789.96] light of the resurrection. -[3790.46 --> 3791.90] Without the resurrection, -[3792.28 --> 3793.90] death has the last word. -[3794.30 --> 3796.06] Death is the only thing in the -[3796.06 --> 3797.30] end that makes sense if the -[3797.30 --> 3798.44] resurrection is not real. -[3800.58 --> 3802.02] And can I be candid with you? -[3802.86 --> 3804.38] Because even if you're not -[3804.38 --> 3806.54] yet a Christian, notice my -[3806.54 --> 3807.04] language there. -[3807.80 --> 3809.12] Even if you're not yet a -[3809.12 --> 3811.20] Christian, you intuit this. -[3811.20 --> 3811.76] You know this. -[3812.44 --> 3814.54] You know this in your soul, -[3814.70 --> 3816.48] even if you can't make sense of -[3816.48 --> 3817.18] it in your brain. -[3817.98 --> 3818.14] Right? -[3818.24 --> 3819.48] Death isn't the end. -[3820.02 --> 3820.82] Death is defeated. -[3821.70 --> 3823.30] Resurrection redefines your -[3823.30 --> 3825.20] experience of death, and it -[3825.20 --> 3827.12] redefines your experience of life -[3827.12 --> 3827.88] now. -[3829.02 --> 3830.96] Jesus' resurrection means that by -[3830.96 --> 3833.64] his power, we too are raised to -[3833.64 --> 3835.04] a new life. -[3835.94 --> 3837.56] Jesus' resurrection means that in -[3837.56 --> 3840.40] this life, right now, we live -[3840.40 --> 3841.22] resurrection. -[3841.62 --> 3843.52] We practice resurrection. -[3843.78 --> 3845.82] We live resurrection now. -[3846.64 --> 3848.74] To believe in the resurrection is to -[3848.74 --> 3851.30] believe that God has interrupted the -[3851.30 --> 3853.42] nonsense of death with a deeper -[3853.42 --> 3854.50] logic of love. -[3857.00 --> 3860.18] Eugene Peterson, talking about the -[3860.18 --> 3862.92] practice of resurrection, says the -[3862.92 --> 3863.22] following. -[3863.34 --> 3863.68] He says, -[3863.68 --> 3865.70] The practice of resurrection is an -[3865.70 --> 3868.40] intentional, deliberate decision to -[3868.40 --> 3870.04] believe and participate in -[3870.04 --> 3871.10] resurrection life. -[3871.38 --> 3872.50] Life out of death. -[3872.70 --> 3874.20] Life that trumps death. -[3874.36 --> 3875.72] Life that is the last word. -[3875.90 --> 3877.02] Jesus' life. -[3877.88 --> 3879.76] This practice is not a vague wish -[3879.76 --> 3882.00] upwards, but comprises a number of -[3882.00 --> 3884.38] discreet and interlocking acts that -[3884.38 --> 3886.94] maintain a credible and faithful way of -[3886.94 --> 3887.34] life. -[3887.74 --> 3890.90] Real life in a world preoccupied with -[3890.90 --> 3892.56] death and the devil. -[3893.68 --> 3897.48] Resurrection life means faith in an -[3897.48 --> 3898.52] age of nonsense. -[3899.00 --> 3901.12] It means hope in a hopeless world. -[3901.94 --> 3904.04] It means deep feeling when everyone -[3904.04 --> 3905.08] else is apathetic. -[3905.74 --> 3907.96] It means fighting for justice when the -[3907.96 --> 3908.92] battle seems lost. -[3909.52 --> 3912.14] It means loving those who persecute -[3912.14 --> 3912.32] you. -[3912.54 --> 3914.10] It means praying for your enemies. -[3914.26 --> 3916.20] It means feeding the hungry, healing -[3916.20 --> 3916.66] the sick. -[3916.74 --> 3918.84] It means remembering the forgotten. -[3918.84 --> 3923.02] Listen, in an age of nonsense, people -[3923.02 --> 3926.00] will see what you are doing as you -[3926.00 --> 3928.60] practice resurrection and Lord willing, -[3928.80 --> 3930.52] it will finally click for them. -[3931.74 --> 3933.50] That makes sense. -[3934.44 --> 3935.16] They will see. -[3937.30 --> 3940.12] Justin Brierley in his book, The -[3940.12 --> 3942.70] Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God. -[3942.70 --> 3944.74] And this is the subtitle of the book. -[3944.82 --> 3946.58] This is why I picked it up in the first -[3946.58 --> 3946.84] place. -[3946.90 --> 3950.72] The subtitle, why new atheism grew old and -[3950.72 --> 3952.24] secular thinkers are considering -[3952.24 --> 3953.24] Christianity again. -[3954.36 --> 3957.70] In that book, he concludes saying, the -[3957.70 --> 3960.42] most fruitful way we can introduce people -[3960.42 --> 3962.96] to the Christian story is through the realm -[3962.96 --> 3965.26] of the imagination rather than the -[3965.26 --> 3965.78] intellect. -[3965.78 --> 3968.34] And we do that, and here's what I want -[3968.34 --> 3970.36] us to hear, we do that by making people -[3970.36 --> 3973.20] want Christianity to be true in the -[3973.20 --> 3976.36] first place, by showing what it means in -[3976.36 --> 3978.72] our deepest instincts about what matters -[3978.72 --> 3979.28] most. -[3980.34 --> 3984.40] Only then can apologetics work, the work of -[3984.40 --> 3987.24] showing them why it's true, be of any -[3987.24 --> 3987.56] use. -[3990.80 --> 3993.06] We do that by making people want -[3993.06 --> 3995.24] Christianity to be true in the first -[3995.24 --> 3998.06] place, by showing how it meets our deepest -[3998.06 --> 4000.58] instincts about what matters most. -[4001.20 --> 4002.82] This is what the resurrection does. -[4004.62 --> 4005.76] And this is something that I have been -[4005.76 --> 4007.98] thinking about actively for about 10 -[4007.98 --> 4008.72] years, right? -[4009.70 --> 4011.40] Imagination as engagement. -[4012.38 --> 4014.32] Aesthetics as apologetics. -[4014.38 --> 4016.12] And that's one of the reasons why I love -[4016.12 --> 4017.60] art, to the chagrin of my wife. -[4017.64 --> 4019.18] When we go on a trip and we go to an art -[4019.18 --> 4021.78] museum, she sits somewhere by herself and I -[4021.78 --> 4022.98] spend hours looking around. -[4022.98 --> 4024.92] That's one of the reasons why I love -[4024.92 --> 4025.42] poetry. -[4027.10 --> 4031.84] And to that end, as we come to the table, I -[4031.84 --> 4035.62] want to end with a poem from Malcolm -[4035.62 --> 4035.98] Geit. -[4037.08 --> 4040.94] We began Easter Friday, or Good Friday, with -[4040.94 --> 4043.14] a poem from Melting Geit. -[4043.14 --> 4045.20] And I'd like to end, to transition to the -[4045.20 --> 4047.84] table, with another poem from Geit. -[4048.00 --> 4051.64] A poem that exemplifies resurrection faith and -[4051.64 --> 4054.00] doubt in an age of nonsense. -[4055.24 --> 4056.78] So this will not be on the screen. -[4057.34 --> 4059.32] This poetry needs to be heard. -[4059.32 --> 4069.74] As though some heavy stone were rolled away, you find an open door where all was closed, -[4069.98 --> 4072.60] wide as an empty tomb on Easter day. -[4074.48 --> 4080.28] Lost in your own dark wood, alone astray, you pause. -[4080.68 --> 4085.22] As though some secret were disclosed, as though some heavy stone were rolled away. -[4085.22 --> 4093.74] You glimpse the sky above you, wane and gray, wide as though those shadowed branches interposed, -[4093.88 --> 4097.04] wide as an empty tomb on Easter day. -[4097.94 --> 4101.56] Perhaps there's light enough to find your way. -[4101.70 --> 4106.98] For now the tangled wood feels less enclosed, as though some heavy stone were rolled away. -[4106.98 --> 4116.84] You lift your feet out of the miry clay and seek the light in which you once reposed wide as an empty tomb on Easter day. -[4117.36 --> 4120.44] And then love calls your name. -[4121.18 --> 4128.46] You hear him say, the way is open, death has been deposed, as though some heavy stone were rolled away. -[4128.64 --> 4134.02] And you are free at last on Easter day. -[4135.06 --> 4135.62] Amen. -[4135.62 --> 4135.82] Amen. -[4136.72 --> 4137.66] Let's pray together. -[4145.10 --> 4151.24] Father God, speak to our hearts now. -[4151.36 --> 4154.04] Speak to our imaginations now. -[4154.40 --> 4159.98] Help us to make a new sense of the world by the truth of your resurrection. -[4159.98 --> 4175.38] Father God, for so many of us this morning, the certainty of this truth and the impossibility of it live side by side in our everyday ordinary experiences. -[4175.38 --> 4182.18] And so we pray that you would bring about a new creation. -[4182.18 --> 4186.74] Allow us to see the world in this new sense. -[4186.74 --> 4197.94] May this resurrection go from a story that someone tells me at church to the story that makes sense of the whole world as I go from this place. -[4197.94 --> 4203.68] Transform us, Lord Jesus, by your word and by the work of your spirit. -[4203.68 --> 4206.74] Transform us now as we come to your table. -[4206.74 --> 4210.94] Father, that what we have heard, that what we have heard we might take in. -[4211.70 --> 4219.54] And that as bread and juice nourish the body, that we might be nourished by your presence among us. -[4219.54 --> 4228.08] Father, it is only because the resurrection is real that we meet you here at this table. -[4228.90 --> 4235.54] And so make that truth even more real to us today, we pray, in the name of Jesus Christ. -[4236.20 --> 4238.42] All God's people said, Amen. -[4238.42 --> 4251.68] As we come to the table, of course, there's an Easter liturgy that will shape our encounter here. -[4252.34 --> 4256.24] And so I'm going to invite you, as you see the words appear on the screen behind me, -[4256.28 --> 4263.46] to speak those that are marked for you as we gather in the presence of our King together. -[4264.20 --> 4266.94] I invite you to join in the following prayer. -[4268.42 --> 4272.90] This is the feast of victory for our God. -[4273.50 --> 4276.80] Hallelujah, hallelujah, hallelujah. -[4277.64 --> 4280.74] Worthy is Christ, the Lamb who was slain. -[4281.46 --> 4289.06] Worthy is Christ, the Lamb who was slain, whose blood set us free to be people of God. -[4290.28 --> 4293.62] This is the victory, victory for our God. -[4294.30 --> 4296.90] Hallelujah, hallelujah, hallelujah. -[4296.90 --> 4300.76] Worthy is Christ, the Lamb who was slain. -[4300.76 --> 4307.22] Power, riches, wisdom, and strength, and honor, and blessing, and glory are His. -[4308.56 --> 4311.82] This is the feast of victory for our God. -[4312.56 --> 4315.22] Hallelujah, hallelujah, hallelujah. -[4316.18 --> 4319.06] Worthy is Christ, the Lamb who was slain. -[4320.18 --> 4325.04] Sing with all the people of God and join in the hymn of all creation. -[4325.04 --> 4328.04] This is the feast of victory for our God. -[4328.34 --> 4330.54] Hallelujah, hallelujah, hallelujah. -[4332.10 --> 4335.24] Worthy is Christ, the Lamb who was slain. -[4336.10 --> 4342.18] Blessing, honor, and glory, and might be to God and to the Lamb forever. -[4342.84 --> 4343.20] Amen. -[4343.20 --> 4343.32] Amen. -[4344.54 --> 4350.78] We celebrate this feast in obedience to Christ's example and mandate. -[4351.82 --> 4356.36] The Lord Jesus, on the night that He was betrayed, took bread. -[4357.16 --> 4360.08] And when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, -[4360.44 --> 4362.82] This is my body, which is for you. -[4363.46 --> 4365.90] Do this in remembrance of me. -[4365.90 --> 4371.40] And in the same way, He took the cup after supper, saying, -[4372.22 --> 4375.18] This cup is the new covenant in my blood. -[4375.80 --> 4380.78] Do this whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me. -[4381.28 --> 4383.72] For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, -[4383.84 --> 4388.04] you proclaim the Lord's death until He comes again. -[4389.38 --> 4392.32] Come then, for all is ready. -[4393.08 --> 4395.00] Christ was raised to life. -[4395.00 --> 4396.60] Death is swallowed up. -[4396.70 --> 4397.80] Victory is won. -[4398.14 --> 4398.58] Hallelujah. -[4399.14 --> 4401.82] Therefore, let us keep the feast. -[4402.44 --> 4402.84] Hallelujah. -[4404.54 --> 4406.00] Come to this table. -[4406.72 --> 4411.02] If you're filled with faith, and if your faith is mixed with doubt, -[4411.80 --> 4416.18] if you haven't come and been a regular to this feast, -[4416.60 --> 4420.34] you are invited to come and taste faith. -[4420.88 --> 4424.06] If you have tried to follow Jesus, and if you have failed, -[4424.06 --> 4425.84] come to this table, come to this table, -[4425.84 --> 4429.64] because Jesus Christ is raised. -[4430.32 --> 4434.94] Come, because it is Christ Jesus who welcomes you here. -[4436.48 --> 4439.44] The gifts of God for the people of God. -[4440.04 --> 4444.06] The feast of God for the people of God. -[4444.82 --> 4445.14] Amen. -[4445.14 --> 4451.28] As we come to this table together, we're going to do so in groups. -[4451.28 --> 4455.16] We'll come up in our rows, and we'll form a circle here around the table. -[4455.68 --> 4459.52] You will be given the tray of bread, and as it's passed to you, -[4459.64 --> 4460.82] the person will say, -[4460.82 --> 4463.78] the body of Christ given for you, and then as you pass it, -[4463.84 --> 4465.22] you are invited to say the same. -[4465.68 --> 4468.64] Likewise, with the juice that comes around, as it's passed to you, -[4468.82 --> 4471.12] you will hear the blood of Christ shed for you, -[4471.16 --> 4473.22] and you're invited to say the same. -[4473.92 --> 4478.96] In the middle of each of the trays of bread is a little cup with gluten-free bread -[4478.96 --> 4481.42] that you can take if you are required for that, too. -[4482.18 --> 4485.72] We will have ushers who will indicate when it's your time to come up to the front. -[4486.34 --> 4488.24] If you are unable to come up to the front, -[4488.32 --> 4490.74] but would still like to receive the elements, -[4490.90 --> 4492.44] please indicate that to the ushers, -[4492.56 --> 4494.18] and they will meet you where you are at, -[4494.24 --> 4496.96] and they will serve you in your seat in the same way. -[4497.84 --> 4501.26] To begin, I'd like to invite the serving elders and the worship leaders -[4501.26 --> 4504.98] to come up to the front, that they can have the first table, -[4504.98 --> 4508.74] and then they'll lead us in singing and song as the rest of us go through. -[4509.46 --> 4513.14] Likewise, as you are waiting to come or in lieu of coming, -[4513.22 --> 4514.84] if you'd like to meet someone for prayer, -[4514.84 --> 4517.20] there will be people in the foyer at the back -[4517.20 --> 4519.40] who would love to meet you and pray with you. -[4519.68 --> 4522.50] I invite the worship leaders and elders -[4522.50 --> 4524.30] and those helping us serve to the front. -[4524.46 --> 4525.46] Thank you. -[4525.46 --> 4526.46] Thank you. -[4545.30 --> 4546.54] thickvoltp Concretica -[4546.54 --> 4549.16] A body of Christ to give it for you. -[4553.16 --> 4553.52] Body of Christ to give it for you. -[4554.44 --> 4567.50] Body of Christ to give it for you. -[4567.50 --> 4568.66] Good engine. -[4568.66 --> 4569.12] Good engine. -[4569.12 --> 4571.16] In the wind and RA весˈkun expense page -[4571.16 --> 4573.64] the broken heart and the stress valve -[4573.64 --> 4582.46] Thank you, -[4582.46 --> 4598.72] eat and remember, -[4598.72 --> 4609.14] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[4611.56 --> 4612.94] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[4619.50 --> 4620.86] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[4621.96 --> 4622.34] Amen. -[4622.80 --> 4624.06] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[4624.06 --> 4624.12] Amen. -[4628.72 --> 4641.80] Thank you. -[4641.80 --> 4641.84] Thank you. -[4649.78 --> 4650.66] Thank you. -[4650.66 --> 4659.36] Drink and believe. -[4663.36 --> 4666.48] Amen. -[4680.66 --> 4682.66] Amen. -[4710.66 --> 4712.66] Amen. -[4740.66 --> 4742.44] Amen. -[4751.10 --> 4752.28] Amen. -[4752.28 --> 4776.24] Just as I am with love on me, but that thy heart was shed for me, -[4776.24 --> 4796.24] and that thou bidst me come to thee, O Lamb of God, I come, I come. -[4796.24 --> 4814.08] Just as I am and waiting not to rid my soul of what I've got, -[4814.08 --> 4834.08] to thee whose blood can cleanse each thought, O Lamb of God, I come, I come. -[4834.08 --> 4852.08] Just as I am, thou wilt receive, wilt wilt apart, done cleanse, relieve, -[4852.08 --> 4871.08] because thy promise I believe, O Lamb of God, I come, I come. -[4871.08 --> 4898.32] I come to the cross seeking mercy and praise. -[4898.32 --> 4907.10] I come to the cross where you die in my place. -[4907.62 --> 4915.32] Out of my weakness and into your strength, -[4916.08 --> 4921.28] calmly I come to the cross. -[4921.28 --> 4931.76] Your arms are open, you call me by name. -[4931.76 --> 4939.28] You welcomed this child and was lost. -[4939.28 --> 4948.20] You paid the price for my guilt and my shame. -[4948.20 --> 4951.76] Jesus, I come. -[4951.76 --> 4955.76] Jesus, I come. -[4955.76 --> 4962.06] Jesus, I come to the cross. -[4962.06 --> 4964.06] Jesus, I come to the cross. -[4964.06 --> 4972.48] I come to the cross seeking mercy and praise. -[4972.48 --> 4980.98] I come to the cross where you died in my place. -[4980.98 --> 4989.06] Out of my weakness and into your strength, -[4989.06 --> 4996.06] Humbly I come to the cross. -[4996.06 --> 5005.28] Your arms are open, you call me by name. -[5005.28 --> 5012.06] You were the homeless child that was lost. -[5012.06 --> 5019.06] You paid the price for my guilt and my shame. -[5019.06 --> 5021.06] You paid the price for my guilt and my shame. -[5021.06 --> 5025.06] Jesus, I come. -[5025.06 --> 5027.06] Jesus, I come. -[5027.06 --> 5029.06] Jesus, I come. -[5029.06 --> 5035.06] Jesus, I come to the cross. -[5035.06 --> 5060.06] Jesus, I come to the cross. -[5060.06 --> 5067.06] Amazing grace, how sweet the sound. -[5067.06 --> 5077.06] That saved a wretch, I pay me dear. -[5077.06 --> 5085.02] I once was lost, but now am found. -[5085.02 --> 5091.94] Was blind but now I see -[5091.94 --> 5102.02] T'was grace that taught my heart to fear -[5102.64 --> 5110.02] Embrace my fears relieved -[5110.02 --> 5119.02] How precious did that praise appear -[5119.54 --> 5126.20] The hour I first believed -[5126.20 --> 5136.02] Through many dangers, toils, and snares -[5136.02 --> 5145.02] I have already come -[5145.66 --> 5154.24] T'was grace that fraught me save thus far -[5154.24 --> 5163.24] Embrace will lead me home -[5163.24 --> 5172.24] When we lived there ten thousand years -[5172.24 --> 5180.24] Bright shining as the sun -[5180.24 --> 5189.24] We've no last days to sing God's praise -[5189.24 --> 5195.24] Than when we first begun -[5195.24 --> 5205.24] We've no last days to sing God's praise -[5205.24 --> 5212.24] Than when we first begun -[5212.24 --> 5235.24] You did not wait for me -[5235.24 --> 5239.24] To draw near to you -[5239.24 --> 5244.24] But you clothed yourself with frail humanity -[5244.24 --> 5250.24] You did not wait for me -[5250.24 --> 5253.24] To cry out to you -[5253.24 --> 5260.24] But you let me hear your voice calling me -[5260.24 --> 5266.24] I'm forever grateful to you -[5266.24 --> 5272.24] I'm forever grateful for the cross -[5272.24 --> 5281.24] I'm forever grateful to you -[5281.24 --> 5287.24] That you came to seek and save the lost -[5287.24 --> 5298.24] You did not wait for me -[5298.24 --> 5300.24] You did not wait for me -[5300.24 --> 5302.24] To draw near to you -[5302.24 --> 5306.24] But you clothed yourself with frail humanity -[5306.24 --> 5307.24] You did not wait for me -[5307.24 --> 5311.24] You did not wait for me -[5311.24 --> 5317.24] To cry out to you -[5317.24 --> 5321.24] But you let me hear your voice calling -[5321.24 --> 5326.24] I'm forever grateful to you -[5326.24 --> 5337.24] I'm forever grateful for the cross -[5337.24 --> 5343.24] I'm forever grateful to you -[5343.24 --> 5353.24] That you came to seek and save the lost -[5353.24 --> 5356.24] I'm forever grateful to you -[5356.24 --> 5360.24] I'm forever grateful to you -[5360.24 --> 5366.24] I'm forever grateful for the cross -[5366.24 --> 5372.24] I'm forever grateful to you -[5372.24 --> 5386.24] To you that you came to seek and save the lost -[5402.24 --> 5419.24] I am the bread of life -[5419.24 --> 5426.24] They who come to me shall not hunger -[5426.24 --> 5433.24] They who believe in me shall not thirst -[5433.24 --> 5439.24] No one can come to me -[5439.24 --> 5445.24] Unless the Father draws them -[5445.24 --> 5451.24] And I will raise them all -[5451.24 --> 5458.24] And I will raise them all -[5458.24 --> 5464.24] And I will raise them all -[5464.24 --> 5471.24] On the last day -[5471.24 --> 5481.24] The bread that I give is my flesh -[5481.24 --> 5487.24] For the life of the world -[5487.24 --> 5494.24] And they who eat of this bread -[5494.24 --> 5495.24] for the hunt -[5495.24 --> 5496.24] They who stand -[5496.24 --> 5497.24] They who live for the cross -[5497.24 --> 5501.24] They shall not live for ever -[5501.24 --> 5505.24] They shall not live for forever -[5505.24 --> 5506.24] They shall not live for the cross -[5506.24 --> 5507.24] They shall not live for ever -[5507.24 --> 5509.24] And I will not give a loss -[5509.24 --> 5511.24] And vidéos à People -[5511.24 --> 5512.24] who live for the peace of God -[5512.24 --> 5513.24] They true come to you -[5513.24 --> 5514.24] And I will not give a loss -[5514.24 --> 5519.46] I will raise them up -[5519.46 --> 5525.54] And I will raise them up -[5525.54 --> 5532.32] On the last day -[5532.32 --> 5541.08] I am the resurrection -[5541.08 --> 5548.44] I am the light -[5548.44 --> 5555.58] They who believe in me -[5555.58 --> 5562.08] Even if they die -[5562.08 --> 5566.94] They shall live forever -[5566.94 --> 5574.30] And I will raise them up -[5574.30 --> 5580.72] And I will raise them up -[5580.72 --> 5586.72] And I will raise them up -[5586.72 --> 5593.44] On the last day -[5593.44 --> 5599.86] And I will raise them up -[5599.86 --> 5606.38] And I will raise them up -[5606.38 --> 5612.48] And I will raise them up -[5612.48 --> 5620.90] On the last day -[5620.90 --> 5627.90] And I will raise them up -[5627.90 --> 5632.32] And I will raise them up -[5632.32 --> 5636.90] And I will raise them up -[5636.90 --> 5648.90] And I will prayer -[5656.86 --> 5660.26] And I hear the Savior say -[5660.26 --> 5664.70] Thy strength indeed is small -[5664.70 --> 5669.78] Child of weakness, watch and pray -[5669.78 --> 5675.58] Find in me thine all in all -[5675.58 --> 5680.84] Jesus paid it all -[5680.84 --> 5684.86] All to him I owe -[5684.86 --> 5689.78] Sin has left a crimson stain -[5689.78 --> 5694.18] He washed it white as snow -[5694.18 --> 5706.78] Lord, now indeed I find -[5706.78 --> 5711.58] Thy power and thine alone -[5711.58 --> 5716.62] Can change the leper's cause -[5716.62 --> 5721.02] And melt the heart of stone -[5721.02 --> 5727.02] Jesus paid it all -[5727.02 --> 5731.62] All to him I owe -[5731.62 --> 5736.02] Sin has left a crimson stain -[5736.02 --> 5741.02] He washed it white as snow -[5741.02 --> 5748.42] And when before the throne -[5748.42 --> 5752.42] I stand in complete -[5752.42 --> 5758.42] Jesus died my soul to save -[5758.42 --> 5763.42] My lips shall still repeat -[5763.42 --> 5767.82] Jesus paid it all -[5767.82 --> 5772.82] All to him I owe -[5772.82 --> 5777.82] Sin has left a crimson stain -[5777.82 --> 5781.82] He washed it white as snow -[5781.82 --> 5786.22] Sin had left a crimson stain -[5786.22 --> 5789.22] He washed it white as snow -[5789.22 --> 5793.22] He washed it white as snow -[5793.22 --> 5800.22] He washed it white as snow -[5800.22 --> 5804.22] He washed it white as snow -[5804.22 --> 5808.62] He washed it white as snow -[5808.62 --> 5809.62] He washed it white as snow -[5809.62 --> 5814.62] Oh, praise the one who paid my debt -[5814.62 --> 5818.62] And raised this life up from the dead -[5818.62 --> 5823.02] Oh, praise the one who paid my debt -[5823.02 --> 5827.02] And raised this life up from the dead -[5827.02 --> 5829.02] Oh, praise the one who paid my debt -[5829.02 --> 5833.02] And raised this life up from the dead -[5833.02 --> 5840.42] Oh, praise the one who paid my debt -[5840.42 --> 5843.42] Oh, praise the one who paid my debt -[5843.42 --> 5847.42] And raised this life up from the dead -[5847.42 --> 5854.42] Jesus paid it all -[5854.42 --> 5858.42] All to him I owe -[5858.42 --> 5863.82] Sin had left a crimson stain -[5863.82 --> 5869.82] He washed it white as snow -[5869.82 --> 5875.82] Jesus paid it all -[5875.82 --> 5879.82] All to him I owe -[5879.82 --> 5884.82] Sin had left a crimson stain -[5884.82 --> 5890.22] He washed it white as snow -[5890.22 --> 5895.78] He washed it white as snow -[5895.78 --> 5896.22] trained on requiem -[5896.22 --> 5900.82] jeux -[5900.82 --> 5904.22] Sin had left a crimson junction -[5904.22 --> 5906.22] He washed it white as snow -[5906.22 --> 5912.80] Silent -[5914.22 --> 5916.62] Sin had left a crimson stain -[5916.62 --> 5917.62] Amen. -[5946.62 --> 5947.62] Amen. -[5976.62 --> 5977.62] Amen. -[6006.62 --> 6007.62] Amen. -[6007.62 --> 6032.88] SDM -[6032.88 --> 6037.32] At the end of our story from this morning, -[6038.40 --> 6039.26] we read, -[6039.26 --> 6041.60] Peter got up and ran to the tomb, bending over. -[6041.76 --> 6044.22] He saw the strips of linen lying by themselves, -[6044.46 --> 6048.68] and he went away, wondering to himself what had happened. -[6050.56 --> 6053.04] That's my prayer for you this morning, -[6053.70 --> 6057.40] that you go away wondering what had happened. -[6058.44 --> 6060.86] Whether you go away in the full conviction -[6060.86 --> 6063.48] of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, -[6063.54 --> 6066.86] or you go away full of wondering and doubt, -[6067.42 --> 6070.74] know that it is God who goes with you, -[6071.10 --> 6072.62] that you do not go alone. -[6072.72 --> 6074.76] So I'm going to invite you, as you're able to stand, -[6075.42 --> 6079.66] we'll receive the blessing of God this resurrection Sunday, -[6080.02 --> 6083.34] and then we will conclude by singing together with one voice, -[6083.96 --> 6084.80] My Redeemer Lives. -[6085.76 --> 6088.72] Receive the blessing of our God. -[6090.86 --> 6094.32] God, go before you to lead you. -[6095.02 --> 6097.36] God, go behind you to protect you. -[6098.26 --> 6100.78] God, go beneath you to support you. -[6101.14 --> 6103.76] And God, go beside you to befriend you. -[6104.26 --> 6106.34] Do not be afraid. -[6107.30 --> 6110.32] The tomb is empty, and so you have no reason to fear. -[6110.64 --> 6112.50] Do not be afraid. -[6112.50 --> 6116.66] But go to practice resurrection. -[6116.98 --> 6117.96] In Jesus' name. -[6118.60 --> 6118.92] Amen. -[6118.92 --> 6119.06] Amen. -[6119.06 --> 6119.10] Amen. -[6119.10 --> 6119.14] Amen. -[6119.14 --> 6119.64] Amen. -[6142.10 --> 6143.74] Amen. -[6143.82 --> 6144.66] Amen. -[6144.66 --> 6167.96] I cast my mind to Calvary -[6167.96 --> 6176.46] Where Jesus bled and died for me -[6176.46 --> 6183.46] I see His wounds, His hands, His feet -[6183.46 --> 6190.84] My Savior on that cursed tree -[6190.84 --> 6202.94] His body bound and drenched in tears -[6202.94 --> 6209.84] They laid Him down in Joseph's tomb -[6209.84 --> 6217.84] The entrance sealed by heavy storm -[6217.84 --> 6224.84] Messiah still and all alone -[6224.84 --> 6237.14] Oh, praise the name of the Lord our God -[6237.14 --> 6243.84] Oh, praise His name forevermore -[6243.84 --> 6250.84] For endless days we will sing Your praise -[6250.84 --> 6257.84] Oh, Lord, O Lord our God -[6257.84 --> 6267.84] And on the third at break of dawn -[6267.84 --> 6274.84] The Son of Heaven rose again -[6274.84 --> 6278.84] Oh, trampled death -[6278.84 --> 6281.84] Where is Your sting? -[6281.84 --> 6289.84] The angels roar for Christ the King -[6289.84 --> 6299.84] Oh, praise the name of the Lord our God -[6299.84 --> 6306.84] Oh, praise His name forevermore -[6306.84 --> 6313.84] For endless days we will sing Your praise -[6313.84 --> 6320.84] Oh, Lord, O Lord our God -[6320.84 --> 6331.84] He shall return in robes of white -[6331.84 --> 6338.84] The blazing sun shall pierce the night -[6338.84 --> 6345.84] And I will rise among the saints -[6345.84 --> 6352.84] My gaze transmits on Jesus' face -[6352.84 --> 6355.84] The name of the Lord our God -[6355.84 --> 6359.84] Oh, praise His name forevermore -[6359.84 --> 6360.84] O praise His name forevermore -[6360.84 --> 6361.84] Oh, praise His name forevermore -[6361.84 --> 6362.84] O praise His name forevermore -[6362.84 --> 6364.84] O praise His name forevermore -[6364.84 --> 6365.84] O praise His name forevermore -[6365.84 --> 6369.84] O praise His name forevermore -[6369.84 --> 6372.84] O praise His name forevermore -[6372.84 --> 6384.84] O praise His name forevermore -[6384.84 --> 6386.84] O praise His name -[6386.84 --> 6393.08] Praise the name of the Lord our God. -[6393.08 --> 6399.92] Oh, praise His name forevermore. -[6400.12 --> 6406.08] For endless days we will sing Your praise. -[6407.06 --> 6412.08] Oh, Lord, oh, Lord our God. -[6412.08 --> 6420.34] Oh, praise the name of the Lord our God. -[6420.34 --> 6427.22] Oh, praise His name forevermore. -[6427.52 --> 6433.84] For endless days we will sing Your praise. -[6434.26 --> 6439.28] Oh, Lord, oh, Lord our God. -[6439.28 --> 6445.60] Oh, Lord, oh, Lord our God. -[6447.68 --> 6453.44] Oh, Lord, oh, Lord our God. -[6453.44 --> 6483.42] Oh, Lord our God. -[6483.44 --> 6513.42] Oh, Lord our God. -[6513.44 --> 6543.42] Oh, Lord our God. -[6543.44 --> 6545.44] Oh, Lord our God. -[6545.44 --> 6545.94] Oh, Lord our God. -[6545.94 --> 6547.68] Oh, Lord our God. -[6547.68 --> 6549.44] Oh, Lord our God. -[6562.10 --> 6565.18] Oh, Lord our God. -[6565.18 --> 6567.18] Tower -[6595.18 --> 6597.18] Yeah -[6625.18 --> 6627.18] Thank you -[6655.18 --> 6685.16] Thank you -[6685.18 --> 6715.16] Thank you -[6715.18 --> 6721.06] There's so much of the story that's still yet to unfold -[6721.06 --> 6728.06] And this is going to be a glorious unfolding -[6728.06 --> 6737.28] Just you wait and see and you will be amazed -[6737.28 --> 6740.94] You've just got to believe -[6740.94 --> 6745.16] The story is so far from over -[6745.16 --> 6749.54] So hold on to every promise -[6749.54 --> 6752.58] God has made to us -[6752.58 --> 6757.24] And what's this glorious unfolding -[6757.24 --> 6768.02] God's plan from the start for this world and your heart -[6768.02 --> 6771.40] Has been to show His glory and His grace -[6771.40 --> 6779.78] Forever revealing the depth and the beauty of His unfailing love -[6779.78 --> 6783.58] And the story has only begun -[6783.58 --> 6790.66] And this is going to be a glorious unfolding -[6790.66 --> 6800.04] Just you wait and see and you will be amazed -[6800.04 --> 6801.88] We just -[6801.88 --> 6801.92] We just -[6801.92 --> 6801.94] We just diff --git a/Exiles in a Pagan Land October 17, 2021_summary.txt b/Exiles in a Pagan Land October 17, 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index babf41a1d55c532e86fd7e4b238892608163587d..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Exiles in a Pagan Land October 17, 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,103 +0,0 @@ -• Seeking to be more like Jesus -• Wanting to put God first in life -• Recognizing God's love and acceptance -• Feeling content and at peace despite circumstances -• Understanding that one is enough and loved as they are -• Embracing God's presence and guidance through all situations -• The person speaking appears to be having a spiritual experience, repeatedly declaring "That is enough" and "You are enough" -• Baptisms of young covenant family members will take place during the service -• Announcements are made about: - + A survey for church library use - + Prayer requests for CLASSIS (a regional gathering of CRC churches) on Tuesday - + Safe Church team seeking volunteers with first aid or healthcare experience -• Introduction of Heather and invitation to meet her -• Update on cadets ministry with 17 boys participating and GEMS ministry starting soon -• Clarification on GEMS meetings: leaders meeting this week, counselors meeting this week, and GEMS for girls in two weeks -• Need for additional counselors for GEMS -• Announcement of Catechism for Youth program starting tonight for grades 9-12 -• Worship service begins -• Worship and praise -• Trust in God -• Reminders to rely on faithfulness and mercy -• Freedom from fear and slavery -• Identity as a child of God -• Redemption through love and rescue -• Chosen by God since birth -• Ministry budget for refugee chaplain Dina Nikolai -• The speaker discusses the sacrament of baptism and its significance -• The ceremony is not about the water having magical properties but rather it's a miraculous mystery of God's grace -• The children being baptized are considered covenant children and should receive the covenant -• Baptism seals their adoption as God's children, writes his name on their foreheads, and gives them a new covenant identity in Jesus Christ -• The speaker invites parents to come forward for baptism and asks them a series of questions before proceeding with the ceremony. -• Baptism ceremony for multiple children -• Parents are asked if they believe their children are members of God's covenant and promise to instruct them in the Christian faith -• Explanation of baptism as a symbol of washing away sins and Jesus' name being written on the forehead -• Children are baptized one by one, with parents invited to bring them forward -• Congregation is asked to respond with "we do" to support the families and their children's upbringing -• Blessing of God given to individuals and family -• Elder Eric presents a gift on behalf of the church -• Note about baptismal certificates being delayed due to administrative vacation -• Multiple instances of repeated prayer and blessings -• Children's blessings for kids aged 3-4 -• Baptisms at the church -• Reminders and discussion about baptism significance -• Children's worship time stories: Noah's Ark, the fall, creation, and the Tower of Babel -• Call for volunteers for care packages for young adults studying abroad -• Appreciation for congregation members' volunteer work -• COVID-related deaths and passings mentioned (Mrs. Terpstra, Tim Bonkis' grandmother, Peter Spahn's family) -• Kevin's brother-in-law Patrick has successful surgery -• Many people experiencing long-term effects of COVID (respiratory issues) -• Upcoming classes and participation from church leaders -• Concern for isolated individuals, shut-ins, lonely and depressed people during the pandemic -• Postponed surgeries and healthcare treatments affecting many people -• Prayer time for those struggling with health, loneliness, or mental health challenges -• The speaker's family did not have pets when they were growing up, but their wife loves animals and had them in her childhood home. -• The couple has two dogs and a cat, which the speaker also enjoys despite initially not being interested in pets. -• The speaker's love for his pets is an example of how people often take on interests and hobbies from their loved ones. -• The passage from 1 Peter 2:4-10 emphasizes the idea that God chooses people to be part of His spiritual house, offering sacrifices acceptable to Him through Jesus Christ. -• Layered analogies in Peter's text, including Jesus as both cornerstone and builder -• Temple imagery, with Jesus as the living stone and architect of God's people -• Church is composed of "living stones" (God's people) who offer spiritual sacrifices -• Jesus' sacrifice has forgiven sins, replacing animal sacrifices with spiritual offerings -• Examples of spiritual sacrifices include resisting evil, doing good, and enduring pain -• Union between Christ and the church is essential; without it, Christians are useless or incomplete -• Definition of decorpulated Christianity and decapitated Jesus -• Importance of community in the church, using "we" language -• The church as a collective body built together by Christ -• Conflict resolution through togetherness and communal bond -• Identity as God's chosen people, royal priesthood, holy nation -• Baptism as a symbol of being part of God's promise -• Receiving one's identity from God rather than achieving it themselves -• Various biblical references to our identity in Christ -• The importance of identity in modern Western culture -• Tim Keller's views on the role of culture in shaping identity -• Traditional communal identities vs. individualistic self-discovery -• The "heroic narrative" of self-declaration and its impact on society -• The problems with finding one's identity within oneself, including instability and impermanence -• The tension between God's calling and individualistic identity formation -• Changing nature of feelings and convictions -• Fickleness of forming identity based on personal passions and intuitions -• Exclusive nature of achieving one's own identity through accomplishments -• Example of Christ as a servant who humbled himself and received his identity from God -• Importance of receiving one's identity from God rather than trying to achieve it -• Call to prayer, reading the word, fasting, and gathering as a community to remember one's identity in Christ -• Purpose of being the church is to declare the gospel -• The difference between "sharing" and "declaring" the gospel -• The problem with waiting for others to be receptive to the message of Jesus -• The importance of declaring God's praises without regard to audience receptivity -• A challenge from Pastor Chris to have conversations about God's love with specific individuals in their lives -• The importance of encouraging and lifting each other up with stories -• Declaring God's name to those on one's heart -• Being the church chosen by God to declare the gospel together -• The mission statement: "we've gathered, hopefully we've grown, but now we must go" -• Prayer for courage, encouragement, and conviction to share the gospel -• Asking for the Holy Spirit to guide hearts and words -• Praying for transformation of people through hearing the gospel -• God's sovereignty and lordship -• Christ as the cornerstone and source of strength -• The importance of living a life surrendered to God -• The role of God's people in declaring His praises -• A call to worship and acknowledge Christ's supremacy -• Reminders of God's blessings, protection, and provision -• Reflections on mortality and the fleeting nature of human endeavors -• Praise and adoration for Christ as King and Savior \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Exiles in a Pagan Land October 17, 2021_transcript.txt b/Exiles in a Pagan Land October 17, 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 95023bf0a962ddab5311618ba08cef74f1bad4ce..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Exiles in a Pagan Land October 17, 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1483 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 1.92] The way you see -[1.92 --> 9.32] Somebody with a hurt that I could've held -[9.32 --> 12.26] Somebody with a hand that I could've held -[12.26 --> 14.94] When I just can't see past myself -[14.94 --> 16.82] Lord, help me be -[16.82 --> 19.02] A little more like mercy -[19.02 --> 22.16] A little more like grace -[22.16 --> 24.76] A little more like kindness -[24.76 --> 28.20] Goodness, love and faith -[28.20 --> 30.90] A little more like patience -[30.90 --> 33.58] A little more like peace -[33.58 --> 36.00] A little more like Jesus -[36.00 --> 39.08] A little less like me -[39.08 --> 43.32] Oh, I want to feed the beggar on the street -[43.32 --> 46.12] Love to be your hands and feet -[46.12 --> 48.82] Freely give what I receive -[48.82 --> 50.72] Lord, help me be -[50.72 --> 54.74] I want to put you first of all else -[54.74 --> 57.38] Love my name and rest myself -[57.38 --> 60.14] In the moments no one sees -[60.14 --> 62.76] Lord, help me be -[62.76 --> 68.26] One, two, one -[68.26 --> 69.86] A little more like mercy -[69.86 --> 72.86] A little more like grace -[72.86 --> 75.50] A little more like kindness -[75.50 --> 76.50] Goodness, goodness -[76.50 --> 78.50] Love and faith -[78.50 --> 80.50] A little more like patience -[80.50 --> 81.50] A little more like peace -[81.50 --> 83.50] A little more like peace -[83.50 --> 85.50] A little more like Jesus -[85.50 --> 88.50] A little less like me -[88.50 --> 89.88] A little more like living -[89.88 --> 92.50] Everything I preach -[92.50 --> 93.50] A little more like Jesus -[93.50 --> 96.50] A little less like me -[96.50 --> 97.50] A little more like Jesus -[97.50 --> 98.50] A little less like me -[98.50 --> 99.50] A little more like Jesus -[99.50 --> 103.50] A little less like me -[103.50 --> 106.50] Oh, a little less like me -[106.50 --> 107.50] I want to put you put on your life -[107.50 --> 108.94] I want to thank you -[108.94 --> 109.42] I want to praise you -[109.42 --> 109.50] By the way -[109.50 --> 111.26] I want to thank you -[111.26 --> 111.42] opposed my best -[111.42 --> 112.00] To flow to churches -[112.00 --> 114.38] Divorce -[114.38 --> 115.26] timing -[115.26 --> 116.10] I want to do -[116.10 --> 117.46] ace -[117.46 --> 118.06] Versailles -[118.06 --> 119.16] Ass Fields -[119.16 --> 119.34] ... -[119.34 --> 119.98] Drives -[119.98 --> 120.96] ... -[120.96 --> 121.34] Home -[121.34 --> 121.80] ... -[121.80 --> 123.32] after -[123.32 --> 148.00] I'll never be more loved than I am right now -[148.00 --> 155.00] Wasn't holding you up, so there's nothing I can do to let you down -[155.00 --> 162.00] It doesn't take a trophy to make you proud -[162.00 --> 169.00] I'll never be more loved than I am right now, ooh -[169.00 --> 175.00] Going through a storm, but I won't go down -[175.00 --> 182.00] I hear your voice carried in the rhythm of the wind to call me out -[182.00 --> 190.00] You would cross an ocean, so I wouldn't drown -[190.00 --> 195.00] You've never been closer than you are right now -[195.00 --> 196.00] Sing it loud, y'all -[196.00 --> 203.00] You are a child, you are enough -[203.00 --> 210.00] Jira, you are enough -[210.00 --> 213.00] And I will be content -[213.00 --> 214.00] Even in this -[214.00 --> 217.00] In every circumstance -[217.00 --> 223.00] You are a child, you are enough -[223.00 --> 227.00] Forever enough, always enough -[227.00 --> 229.00] More than enough -[229.00 --> 234.00] Forever enough, always enough -[234.00 --> 236.00] More than enough -[236.00 --> 241.00] I don't wanna forget -[241.00 --> 244.00] How I feel right now -[244.00 --> 246.00] On the mountain top -[246.00 --> 251.00] I can see so clear what it's all about -[251.00 --> 255.00] So stay by my side -[255.00 --> 259.00] When the sun goes down -[259.00 --> 264.00] Don't wanna forget how I feel right now -[264.00 --> 267.00] You are a child, you are enough -[267.00 --> 269.00] You are a child, you are enough -[269.00 --> 274.00] You are a child, you are enough -[274.00 --> 279.00] So I will be, I will be content -[279.00 --> 282.00] Even in this right now -[282.00 --> 285.00] In every circumstance -[285.00 --> 287.00] Cause I'm Lord the child -[287.00 --> 289.00] He is always enough -[289.00 --> 290.00] You are always enough -[290.00 --> 291.00] You are enough -[291.00 --> 292.00] You are enough -[292.00 --> 294.00] He's forever enough -[294.00 --> 295.00] Always enough -[295.00 --> 297.00] Always more than enough -[297.00 --> 299.00] He is, he is -[299.00 --> 300.00] Forever enough -[300.00 --> 302.00] When I lose everything -[302.00 --> 303.00] He's always -[303.00 --> 304.00] Forever enough -[304.00 --> 306.00] Yeah -[306.00 --> 308.00] I'm already loved -[308.00 --> 312.00] I'm already chosen -[312.00 --> 314.00] I know who I am -[314.00 --> 315.00] I know who I am -[315.00 --> 316.00] I know who I am -[316.00 --> 319.00] I know what you've spoken -[319.00 --> 321.00] I'm already loved -[321.00 --> 322.00] I'm already loved -[322.00 --> 325.00] More than I could imagine -[325.00 --> 329.00] And that is enough -[329.00 --> 331.00] Oh, I'm already loved -[331.00 --> 333.00] I'm already loved -[333.00 --> 334.00] I'm already loved -[334.00 --> 336.00] I'm already chosen -[336.00 --> 338.00] I'm already chosen -[338.00 --> 339.00] I know who I am -[339.00 --> 342.00] I know who I am -[342.00 --> 344.00] I know what you've spoken -[344.00 --> 346.00] I know what you've spoken -[346.00 --> 347.00] I'm already loved -[347.00 --> 352.00] More than I could imagine -[352.00 --> 354.00] That is enough -[354.00 --> 356.00] That is enough -[356.00 --> 365.00] Is enough -[365.00 --> 366.00] If you have -[366.00 --> 367.00] I am -[367.00 --> 368.00] I know who I am -[368.00 --> 369.00] I know who I am -[369.00 --> 373.00] I know what you've spoken -[373.00 --> 375.00] I'm already loved -[375.00 --> 378.00] More than I could even feather -[378.00 --> 380.00] God is enough -[380.00 --> 382.00] And that is enough. -[382.00 --> 384.00] And that is enough. -[384.00 --> 386.00] It's enough. -[386.00 --> 388.00] It's enough. -[388.00 --> 390.00] And that is enough. -[390.00 --> 394.00] What His truth says is better than anything. -[394.00 --> 396.00] That is enough. -[396.00 --> 400.00] What He's declared over us, it's true. -[400.00 --> 402.00] That is enough. -[402.00 --> 404.00] That is enough. -[404.00 --> 406.00] That is enough. -[406.00 --> 408.00] That is enough. -[408.00 --> 410.00] someone. -[410.00 --> 412.00] That is enough. -[412.00 --> 414.00] That is enough. -[414.00 --> 416.00] I should die You are. -[416.00 --> 420.00] When I have You out of everything -[420.00 --> 424.00] When I have Jesus out of everything -[424.00 --> 426.00] That is enough. -[426.00 --> 428.00] That is enough. -[428.00 --> 430.00] Cause You are enough. -[430.00 --> 432.00] You are enough. -[432.00 --> 434.00] You're my portion. -[434.00 --> 463.98] You are enough. -[464.00 --> 469.00] You are enough. -[471.00 --> 474.00] I will be content. -[474.00 --> 477.00] Every circle. -[477.00 --> 483.00] You are enough. -[483.00 --> 493.00] You are enough. -[493.00 --> 495.00] You are enough. -[495.00 --> 499.00] You are enough. -[499.00 --> 501.00] You are enough. -[501.00 --> 503.00] You are enough. -[503.00 --> 505.00] You are enough. -[505.00 --> 510.00] You are enough. -[510.00 --> 513.00] You are enough. -[513.00 --> 519.00] You are enough. -[519.00 --> 520.00] You are enough. -[520.00 --> 521.00] You are enough. -[521.00 --> 523.00] You are enough. -[523.00 --> 527.00] How much more does he love you? -[527.00 --> 532.00] If he dresses you with beauty and splendor -[532.00 --> 539.00] How much more will he love you? -[539.00 --> 546.00] If he watches over every spiral -[546.00 --> 551.00] How much more does he love you? -[551.00 --> 554.00] How much more does he love you? -[554.00 --> 560.00] If he dresses you with beauty and splendor -[560.00 --> 565.00] How much more will he love you? -[565.00 --> 568.00] How much more will he love you? -[568.00 --> 575.00] If he watches over every spiral -[575.00 --> 579.00] How much more does he love you? -[581.00 --> 590.00] Good -[590.00 --> 593.00] Everyone awake? -[593.00 --> 595.00] Alright -[595.00 --> 598.00] Welcome to church -[598.00 --> 600.00] Good morning, how are we doing? -[600.00 --> 607.00] Alright, half of us are good, the other half are still asleep. Excellent. -[607.00 --> 619.00] My name is Chris and it's my privilege to lead you here in our worship together, along with these others on stage and those who are lazily making their way to the stage. -[619.00 --> 631.00] We are really excited this morning in our worship. We have the chance to participate in and witness three baptisms of some of our littlest covenant family members. -[631.00 --> 634.00] And so later in our service, you will see that. -[634.00 --> 642.00] And so, whether you are here in person or participating online, please know that that covenant family extends out to you. -[642.00 --> 650.00] And when we respond later in the service in promise of support, you at home, I encourage you to do that with us as well. -[650.00 --> 656.00] Before we begin, there are a couple announcements that we want to make. -[656.00 --> 659.00] First of all, I want to draw your attention. -[659.00 --> 667.00] If you are part of our covenant family here, you probably receive an e-bulletin each week and maybe a midweek memo as well. -[667.00 --> 672.00] In the e-bulletin and midweek memo is a survey from the library team. -[672.00 --> 682.00] And so, we are trying to gauge use of the church library here and how we can do that better or more effectively or more appropriately to your needs. -[682.00 --> 692.00] And so, please take time to find that in the e-bulletin and follow through with that survey so that we can best serve you in that capacity. -[692.00 --> 702.00] Also, just a note for prayer this week on Tuesday, CLASSIS, which is the regional gathering of CRC churches that we are part of, is happening. -[702.00 --> 710.00] It will be a Zoom meeting on Tuesday, but we encourage you to pray for the church leaders and those who gather on that day. -[710.00 --> 728.00] As well, the Safe Church team, specifically the first aid and health aspect of it, is looking for a few point people to be sort of on call or on duty during our worship service. -[728.00 --> 740.00] And so, we want to have someone who will be our sort of point person for issues of first aid or emergency healthcare or whatever, who knows that they are responsible should an issue happen. -[740.00 --> 748.00] To be that kind of person, we are asking that you would have either first aid training or that you have experience in healthcare. -[748.00 --> 759.00] If that's something that you might be interested in, if we can populate a list of five or six or ten people so that you can have an assigned week or month, that would be really great. -[759.00 --> 764.00] And so, if that's something you are interested in, you can talk to Heather. Heather, you're here this morning. Wave. -[764.00 --> 769.00] Hi, Heather, so everyone can see. That's Heather. She's embarrassed that I called her out like that. -[769.00 --> 776.00] You can grab her or you can grab me if you don't know who Heather is, and I will introduce you to Heather following our time together. -[776.00 --> 781.00] Also, we're really grateful this past week that the cadets ministry started. -[781.00 --> 786.00] There was 17 boys out and are expecting a few more to come out for that, and that was a really good time. -[786.00 --> 790.00] We're excited for that. And the GEMS ministry is getting started. -[790.00 --> 794.00] Now, there was a bit of a misprint in the announcements in the e-bulletin. -[794.00 --> 800.00] And so, the first GEMS meeting is not this week. This week will be a GEMS leaders meeting. -[800.00 --> 806.00] So, clarification, GEMS leaders meeting, GEMS counselors meeting happening this week, Thursday. -[806.00 --> 810.00] And then, in two weeks' time, GEMS for the girls will begin. -[810.00 --> 813.00] We are still looking for a couple counselors for GEMS. -[813.00 --> 816.00] And so, if you can, please talk to Courtney. Courtney is at the back. She can wave. -[816.00 --> 821.00] Yep, very good. You can talk to her and get service there. -[821.00 --> 828.00] And then, lastly, but definitely not least, tonight begins Catechism for the Youth. -[828.00 --> 837.00] And so, if you are in our youth program, grades 9 to 12, you have a chance to come here and to study and to learn about our Christian faith. -[837.00 --> 843.00] And if you have any questions about that, Pastor Kevin is here. He can address those. -[843.00 --> 846.00] I think I got them all checked. All right. -[846.00 --> 848.00] We're going to worship our God together this morning. -[848.00 --> 857.00] And to do that, I'm going to invite you to stand, if you are able, that we might be gathered up in his presence as he welcomes us here. -[857.00 --> 862.00] And so, receive the greeting of our God. -[862.00 --> 874.00] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[874.00 --> 877.00] All God's people said, Amen. -[877.00 --> 879.00] Let's worship our God this morning. -[879.00 --> 908.00] Let the King of my heart be the mountain where I run, the fountain I drink from, oh, he is mine. -[908.00 --> 925.00] Let the King of my heart be the shadow where I hide, the ransom for my life, oh, he is my song. -[925.00 --> 954.00] You are good, good, oh, you are good, good, oh, you are good, good, oh. -[954.00 --> 968.00] Let the King of my heart be the wind inside my sails, the anchor in the waves, oh, he is my song. -[968.00 --> 982.00] Let the King of my heart be the King of my heart be the fire inside my veins, the echo of my days, oh, he is my song. -[982.00 --> 983.00] Let the King of my heart be the lion, the sight of my heart be the yellow31. -[983.00 --> 984.00] Let the King of my heart be the energy in the wilderness, oh, you are good, good, oh. -[984.00 --> 997.00] Let the King of my heart be a little fan in the waves, when my sovereign fleeting says oh, you are good, good, oh, you are good, oh, you are good, good, oh. -[997.00 --> 1004.00] You are good, good home -[1004.00 --> 1012.00] You are good, good home -[1012.00 --> 1020.00] You're never gonna let, never gonna let me down -[1020.00 --> 1039.00] You're never gonna let, never gonna let me down -[1039.00 --> 1049.00] You're never gonna let, never gonna let me down -[1049.00 --> 1068.64] You're never gonna let, never gonna let me down. -[1068.64 --> 1095.40] You are good, good, oh, you are good, good, oh, you are good, good, oh. -[1098.64 --> 1126.36] When the night is holding on to me, God is holding on. -[1126.36 --> 1140.36] When the night is holding on to me, God is holding on. -[1140.36 --> 1141.36] Amen. -[1170.36 --> 1179.76] You have been a refuge for the poor, a refuge for the needy in their distress, a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat. -[1180.66 --> 1181.90] Surely this is our God. -[1182.16 --> 1184.04] We trusted him and he saved us. -[1184.58 --> 1185.46] This is the Lord. -[1185.86 --> 1186.78] We trusted in him. -[1187.30 --> 1189.70] Let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation. -[1189.70 --> 1191.70] We trusted him and he saved us. -[1191.70 --> 1195.70] We trusted him and he saved us. -[1195.70 --> 1209.70] We trusted him and he saved us. -[1209.70 --> 1211.90] I will worship. -[1212.42 --> 1214.08] I will worship. -[1214.32 --> 1216.32] With all of my heart. -[1216.58 --> 1218.62] With all of my heart. -[1219.14 --> 1221.36] I will praise you. -[1221.44 --> 1223.38] I will praise you. -[1223.38 --> 1225.78] With all of my strength. -[1225.94 --> 1227.70] All my strength. -[1227.70 --> 1238.82] I will praise you. -[1241.98 --> 1244.24] Could be all of your strength. -[1244.24 --> 1246.12] Speaking of all of my strength. -[1246.12 --> 1251.00] I will give you all my worship -[1251.00 --> 1256.32] I will give you all my praise -[1256.32 --> 1260.36] You alone I long to worship -[1260.36 --> 1265.94] You alone I worthy of my praise -[1265.94 --> 1269.88] I will bow down -[1269.88 --> 1272.28] And hail you as King -[1272.28 --> 1277.28] I will worship -[1277.28 --> 1279.28] I will serve you -[1279.28 --> 1281.28] Give you everything -[1281.28 --> 1283.28] Everything -[1283.28 --> 1286.28] I will lift up -[1286.28 --> 1288.28] I will lift up -[1288.28 --> 1290.28] My eyes to your throne -[1290.28 --> 1293.28] My eyes to your throne -[1293.28 --> 1295.28] I will trust you -[1295.28 --> 1297.28] I will trust you -[1297.28 --> 1299.28] Trust you alone -[1299.28 --> 1302.28] Just you alone -[1302.28 --> 1306.28] I will give you all my worship -[1306.28 --> 1311.28] I will give you all my praise -[1311.28 --> 1316.28] You alone I long to worship -[1316.28 --> 1320.28] You alone I worthy of my praise -[1320.28 --> 1325.28] You alone I worthy of my praise -[1325.28 --> 1330.28] You alone I worthy of my praise -[1330.28 --> 1335.28] You alone I long to worship -[1335.28 --> 1341.28] You alone I worthy of my praise -[1341.28 --> 1353.28] Lord, we come before you in worship -[1353.28 --> 1354.28] Praising your name -[1354.28 --> 1356.28] Praising you for what you have done -[1356.28 --> 1358.28] You are king over our lives -[1358.28 --> 1360.28] And we have been chosen by you -[1360.28 --> 1362.28] But we stumble and we disobey -[1362.28 --> 1364.28] You are faithful -[1364.28 --> 1366.28] But we grow weary -[1366.28 --> 1367.28] You are merciful -[1367.28 --> 1369.28] But we hide in our shame -[1369.28 --> 1371.28] You are our sturdy rock -[1371.28 --> 1373.28] But we step onto the sand -[1373.28 --> 1374.28] And we sink into the waves -[1374.28 --> 1376.28] Remind us of who we are -[1376.28 --> 1377.28] Because of you -[1377.28 --> 1379.28] Remind us when we grow weary -[1379.28 --> 1380.28] In our striving -[1380.28 --> 1382.28] That we can lean on your faithfulness -[1382.28 --> 1384.28] Remind us that when we feel guilt -[1384.28 --> 1385.28] And shame -[1385.28 --> 1388.28] Your mercies are ever flowing -[1388.28 --> 1389.28] Remind us when we see -[1389.28 --> 1391.28] The chaotic world around us -[1391.28 --> 1394.28] That in you remain the same sturdy rock -[1394.28 --> 1395.28] That we can always rely on -[1395.28 --> 1397.28] Because we are your chosen people -[1397.28 --> 1399.28] And we are made new in you -[1399.28 --> 1419.28] You unravel me with a melody -[1419.28 --> 1424.28] With a melody -[1424.28 --> 1429.28] You surround me with a song -[1429.28 --> 1433.28] Of deliverance -[1433.28 --> 1437.28] From my enemies -[1437.28 --> 1443.28] Till all my fears are gone -[1443.28 --> 1445.28] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1445.28 --> 1458.28] I am a child of God -[1458.28 --> 1464.28] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1464.28 --> 1471.28] I am a child of God -[1471.28 --> 1487.28] From my mother's womb -[1487.28 --> 1488.28] You have chosen me -[1488.28 --> 1489.28] You have chosen me -[1489.28 --> 1490.28] Your love has called my name -[1490.28 --> 1494.28] Your love has called my name -[1494.28 --> 1498.28] Your love has called my name -[1498.28 --> 1502.28] I've been born again -[1502.28 --> 1504.28] Into your family -[1504.28 --> 1508.28] Your blood flows through my veins -[1508.28 --> 1513.28] Flows through my veins -[1513.28 --> 1518.28] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1518.28 --> 1523.28] I am a child of God -[1523.28 --> 1536.28] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1536.28 --> 1541.28] I am a child of God -[1541.28 --> 1556.28] I am a child of God -[1556.28 --> 1562.28] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1562.28 --> 1565.28] I am a child of God -[1565.28 --> 1569.28] I am a child of God -[1569.28 --> 1570.28] But I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1571.28 --> 1572.28] I am a child of God -[1572.28 --> 1573.28] I am a child of God -[1573.28 --> 1577.94] I am an elder -[1577.94 --> 1579.78] O-oh -[1579.78 --> 1583.28] O-oh -[1583.28 --> 1586.66] O-oh -[1586.66 --> 1588.28] O-oh -[1588.28 --> 1589.72] O-oh -[1589.72 --> 1592.72] O-oh -[1592.76 --> 1595.28] O-oh -[1595.28 --> 1595.54] O-oh -[1595.54 --> 1597.42] O-oh -[1597.42 --> 1604.22] You split the sea so I could walk right through it. -[1604.22 --> 1609.42] My fears were drowned in perfect love. -[1611.56 --> 1617.72] You rescued me so I could stand and sing. -[1618.04 --> 1622.94] I am a child of God. -[1622.94 --> 1632.32] You split the sea so I could walk right through it. -[1632.32 --> 1637.32] My fears were drowned in perfect love. -[1637.32 --> 1645.42] You rescued me so I could stand and sing. -[1645.42 --> 1651.80] I am a child of God. -[1651.80 --> 1658.44] I am a child of God. -[1658.44 --> 1660.18] What a thief! -[1660.18 --> 1665.18] I am a child of God. -[1665.18 --> 1674.56] I am a child of God. -[1674.56 --> 1679.56] I am a child of God. -[1679.56 --> 1685.94] I am a child of God. -[1685.94 --> 1693.94] I'm no longer a slave to fear. -[1693.94 --> 1698.94] I am a child of God. -[1698.94 --> 1708.32] I am a child of God. -[1708.32 --> 1709.32] You may be seated. -[1709.32 --> 1735.70] I am a child of God. -[1735.70 --> 1736.70] Good morning. -[1736.70 --> 1747.08] Today's budget is for refugee chaplain Dina Nikolai and also for the budget. -[1747.08 --> 1754.70] Dina Nikolai is the chaplain and refugee support mobilizer as well as commissioner, pastor with -[1754.70 --> 1756.08] the CRC church. -[1756.08 --> 1761.08] Dina offers her presence and supports refugees who are new to Canada. -[1761.08 --> 1769.28] She helps refugees access service at the Immigration Service Society of BC and acts as a bridge between -[1769.28 --> 1776.46] churches and new comers as well as helping them integrate into communities here in BC. -[1776.46 --> 1782.14] Unless otherwise noted, all offerings will go towards the refugee chaplain, Dina Nikolai. -[1782.14 --> 1811.48] F -[1812.14 --> 1820.94] The truth is found, and every page with glory filled. -[1825.32 --> 1831.36] Through faith alone we come to you. -[1832.12 --> 1837.42] We have no merit we can claim. -[1837.42 --> 1849.42] Sure that your promises are true, we place our hope in Jesus' name. -[1850.70 --> 1861.74] Gloria, Gloria, glory to God alone. -[1861.74 --> 1873.90] Gloria, Gloria, glory to God alone. -[1873.90 --> 1888.10] In Christ alone we're justified. -[1889.48 --> 1894.46] His righteousness is all our plea. -[1895.78 --> 1900.90] Your lost demands are satisfied. -[1900.90 --> 1907.00] His perfect work has set us free. -[1907.88 --> 1917.90] Gloria, Gloria, glory to God alone. -[1917.90 --> 1929.90] Gloria, Gloria, glory to God alone. -[1929.90 --> 1946.06] By grace alone we have been saved. -[1946.46 --> 1951.78] All that we are has come from you. -[1951.78 --> 1958.22] Hearts that were once by sin enslaved. -[1958.76 --> 1963.78] Now by your power have been made new. -[1965.22 --> 1975.78] Gloria, Gloria, glory to God alone. -[1975.78 --> 1987.78] Gloria, Gloria, glory to God alone. -[1987.78 --> 1999.78] Gloria, Gloria, glory to God alone. -[1999.78 --> 2011.66] Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, glory to God alone. -[2011.66 --> 2012.00] Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, glory to God alone. -[2012.12 --> 2015.62] Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria to God alone. -[2015.66 --> 2021.54] Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria. -[2021.54 --> 2042.16] It is our great privilege this morning in our worship to administer the sacrament of baptism -[2042.16 --> 2050.32] to three of our little children. Now, I say this all the time when we come together for baptism, -[2050.32 --> 2055.96] but I want to be really clear. We do not believe that there's anything magical about the water that -[2055.96 --> 2062.42] we are going to put on these kids today, but we do recognize that this is a miraculous mystery of -[2062.42 --> 2069.76] God's grace. That's what we are acknowledging here. The water doesn't wash away original sin or save -[2069.76 --> 2077.96] the child. Only Jesus' life, death, resurrection, and exaltation in our place does that. We believe -[2077.96 --> 2084.80] that these children are sinful by nature and that the promises of God for the forgiveness of sins and -[2084.80 --> 2092.12] life in the Holy Spirit applies to them. We baptize our kids not out of superstition or out of tradition -[2092.12 --> 2098.78] or because we like really cute babies. We baptize infants because they are covenant children -[2098.78 --> 2108.36] and therefore should receive the covenant. In Genesis 15, God made a covenant with Abraham, -[2109.08 --> 2115.38] and that covenant was sealed in the sign of circumcision in Genesis 17, and God promised to -[2115.38 --> 2123.78] bless Abraham. Now, for Abraham, that meant two things in particular. It meant offspring and it meant land. -[2123.78 --> 2132.52] But at the heart of this covenant was God's promise that he would be a God to Abraham and his children. -[2133.74 --> 2143.60] And so, God cut a covenant into Israel's flesh, carving out a people for himself. And these people -[2143.60 --> 2152.44] would be a light home, a light on the path home for all of humanity. Now, in the fullness of time, -[2152.44 --> 2162.02] then, God sent his Son, Jesus, to be our Savior. And in his death on the cross, our old self is dead -[2162.02 --> 2169.76] and buried. And in his resurrection, we are raised into newness of life with him, and we look forward -[2169.76 --> 2177.32] to that grand and glorious new creation. When we are baptized in the name of the Father and of the Son -[2177.32 --> 2184.36] and of the Holy Spirit, the triune God, seals our adoption as his children and writes his name invisibly -[2184.36 --> 2193.82] on our foreheads. He says, you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging -[2193.82 --> 2202.86] to God. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God. By baptism, we have a new covenant -[2202.86 --> 2211.04] identity in Jesus Christ. And so, when we gather here on this day to administer the sacrament of -[2211.04 --> 2218.18] baptism to these children, we do so with the weight of church history to encourage us, with the example -[2218.18 --> 2225.96] of redemptive history to confirm our practice. We baptize in obedience to Christ's command. -[2225.96 --> 2232.40] The sacrament that we are about to administer is a sign of the inclusion into the covenant community, -[2232.76 --> 2238.06] just as circumcision was. And the water that we are about to sprinkle is a sign of the cleansing from -[2238.06 --> 2245.98] sin, as the sprinkled blood of bulls and goats in the Old Testament was. Today, we pray that Dawson -[2245.98 --> 2251.82] and April and Reuben will take advantage of all their covenant privileges, that they will acknowledge -[2251.82 --> 2258.36] the Lord all the days of their life, and by faith, they will make these promises their own. -[2259.56 --> 2265.28] And so, Dave and Sheila, Justin and Tanya, Matt and Annalise, I want to invite you to come up to the front -[2265.28 --> 2271.62] and just sort of spread yourselves out with your crews across the stage here, or across the bottom. -[2271.62 --> 2298.92] Okay, so, standing here, since you have presented your children for baptism, we're going to ask you a series of questions, -[2298.92 --> 2301.92] and then invite you to come up to the pond, and we'll... -[2301.92 --> 2303.46] together. -[2303.46 --> 2323.14] Okay. -[2323.14 --> 2323.16] Okay. -[2323.50 --> 2323.68] Whoa. -[2326.08 --> 2326.52] Yeah? -[2327.32 --> 2328.72] Oh, I don't know what's going on. -[2331.12 --> 2332.76] Don't do too much. Don't move. -[2333.46 --> 2335.96] Don't say a word. -[2336.32 --> 2337.44] All right, we're going to be here for a while. -[2339.68 --> 2340.04] Okay. -[2340.74 --> 2343.16] If you didn't catch anything I said before, talk to me after. -[2343.68 --> 2344.32] I'll repeat it. -[2345.84 --> 2351.54] All right, I'm going to ask you guys a series of questions, and then we'll come along and then ask you to respond -[2351.54 --> 2354.44] individually as families together. -[2356.48 --> 2359.64] Dave and Sheila, Justin and Tanya, Matt and Annalise. -[2359.64 --> 2366.76] Since you have presented these children for baptism, we ask you these questions. -[2366.76 --> 2378.12] Do you believe that your children, though sinful by nature, are received by God in Christ as members of his covenant and therefore ought to be baptized? -[2378.12 --> 2399.12] And do you promise, in reliance on the Holy Spirit, with the help of this Christian community, to do all you can in your power to instruct these little ones and all your children in the Christian faith and lead them by your example into the life of Christian discipleship? -[2399.12 --> 2402.60] Dave and Sheila, what is your answer? -[2403.56 --> 2403.90] We do. -[2404.12 --> 2404.60] God help you. -[2405.92 --> 2407.64] Matt and Annalise, what is your answer? -[2408.24 --> 2408.60] We do. -[2408.80 --> 2409.34] God help you. -[2410.84 --> 2412.64] Justin and Tanya, what is your answer? -[2413.30 --> 2413.76] We do. -[2413.98 --> 2414.46] God help you. -[2414.46 --> 2417.56] I'm not sure that one was working either, but anyway. -[2418.18 --> 2419.04] They all said we do. -[2419.70 --> 2420.86] They all asked for God's help. -[2423.78 --> 2424.34] All right. -[2425.54 --> 2434.04] This point, parents, if you are comfortable with this, I'm going to invite you to send your little kids up to the front, and we're going to gather over here. -[2434.12 --> 2436.68] So if you guys just move just a little bit here so we have some room. -[2437.08 --> 2449.22] Kids, if you come here and just sort of sit down in this space, you can come up and see what's happening here as we remember that our Lord Jesus invited all the little children to come to him. -[2449.22 --> 2454.54] And he said, do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. -[2454.64 --> 2457.02] And so you guys are going to want to be able to see right over here, okay? -[2457.02 --> 2462.12] All right. -[2462.24 --> 2471.24] In just a moment, we're going to invite each one of these up to receive the sacrament of baptism. -[2472.18 --> 2475.12] Now, some of you guys were baptized in this church, right? -[2476.24 --> 2476.70] Some of you. -[2476.70 --> 2477.80] I know, Nora, you weren't. -[2478.50 --> 2478.98] That's right. -[2479.02 --> 2479.84] But some of you were. -[2479.94 --> 2482.50] So some of you have seen this here before. -[2483.06 --> 2485.28] Do you know what this water means? -[2485.28 --> 2487.80] Go ahead, Zoe. -[2491.46 --> 2493.76] Jesus writes his name on your head. -[2493.86 --> 2494.22] Amen. -[2495.18 --> 2496.34] What a great answer. -[2497.48 --> 2497.92] Anyone else? -[2497.98 --> 2498.20] Haley? -[2506.68 --> 2507.94] Jesus had his feet washed. -[2508.02 --> 2508.46] That's right. -[2508.98 --> 2509.36] That's right. -[2509.40 --> 2514.64] So the water also symbolizes the washing of our sins, right? -[2514.64 --> 2517.50] And so when we have these babies come up, right? -[2517.72 --> 2523.04] Jesus is showing us that he washes our sins and he writes his name on our foreheads. -[2523.52 --> 2530.64] And so as they come up and you guys see that, I want you to think that many of you, maybe even all of you, had the same thing happen to you, right? -[2530.70 --> 2536.38] That this is a chance to remember that Jesus has written his name on your foreheads as well. -[2536.38 --> 2538.44] Why don't we come in order? -[2538.70 --> 2540.28] Dave and Sheila, why don't you come up here first? -[2552.66 --> 2563.24] Dawson, Arthur, Skipper, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. -[2563.24 --> 2564.56] Amen. -[2576.12 --> 2579.78] Matt and Annalise, why don't you find a way around? -[2579.78 --> 2597.30] Ruben, Deodore, Birkenpass. -[2597.96 --> 2604.70] I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. -[2605.48 --> 2605.78] Amen. -[2605.78 --> 2605.96] Amen. -[2605.96 --> 2606.00] Amen. -[2609.78 --> 2619.24] And then Justin and Tanya. -[2629.24 --> 2630.58] Do you want Emma to come up here? -[2632.42 --> 2633.64] Emma, do you want to come up to you? -[2634.72 --> 2635.06] Yeah. -[2635.06 --> 2635.16] Yeah. -[2635.60 --> 2635.66] Yeah. -[2635.66 --> 2635.72] Yeah. -[2639.78 --> 2647.94] April, Tegan, Riley, Smith. -[2648.34 --> 2655.66] I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. -[2657.16 --> 2657.46] Amen. -[2657.46 --> 2657.62] Amen. -[2657.62 --> 2668.90] All right, you guys can join them down there. -[2677.08 --> 2683.44] This must be something about the kinds of parents this church has, but I've done a number of baptisms here, and none of the kids have cried during it. -[2683.44 --> 2688.68] So, for the rest of you who are thinking about baptisms, there's a bar. -[2690.84 --> 2696.50] Although, if we do a believer's baptism and you don't cry, like an adult baptism, hmm. -[2699.00 --> 2703.82] Together, we have a chance to promise these families our support. -[2703.82 --> 2716.92] And so, I'm going to invite you now, as a covenant family, to stand, and I will ask you a question and invite you to respond with, we do, God helping us, we do, with God's help. -[2717.76 --> 2726.30] Also, again, if you are at home, I invite you to respond out loud to this question as well. -[2726.30 --> 2735.14] And so, brothers and sisters of our Lord Jesus Christ, church, family, here, gathered and digitally present, -[2735.56 --> 2742.36] do you promise to love and encourage and support Dawson and April and Ruben and their families -[2742.36 --> 2749.90] by teaching the gospel of God's love, by being an example of Christian faith and character, -[2750.40 --> 2756.94] and by giving the strong support of God's family in fellowship, prayer, and service? -[2757.30 --> 2758.04] What is your answer? -[2761.10 --> 2761.42] Amen. -[2762.10 --> 2762.44] Amen. -[2762.60 --> 2763.18] You may be seated. -[2767.02 --> 2771.48] And now, together, receive the blessing of God. -[2772.36 --> 2775.00] Dawson and April and Ruben. -[2775.76 --> 2778.26] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[2778.94 --> 2783.08] The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[2783.84 --> 2789.82] The Lord turn his face towards you and give you his peace all your lives. -[2790.74 --> 2796.42] In this way, the Lord puts his name on our children and makes them his own. -[2797.42 --> 2799.58] Together, we say, amen. -[2799.58 --> 2799.78] Amen. -[2800.90 --> 2801.62] All right, kids. -[2801.68 --> 2806.26] As you make your way back to your parents, I'm going to invite Elder Eric to come up to the front. -[2806.64 --> 2809.94] He has a gift on behalf of the church for you guys. -[2810.58 --> 2814.06] Just want to note that as you open the gifts, the individual names will be there. -[2814.16 --> 2817.04] There is a baptismal certificate that will be coming. -[2817.90 --> 2820.42] Our church administrator has been on vacation for a couple weeks, -[2820.42 --> 2822.48] and so we don't have them printed and ready to give to you. -[2822.48 --> 2823.48] Thank you. -[2823.48 --> 2823.54] Thank you. -[2823.54 --> 2823.60] Thank you. -[2823.60 --> 2823.66] Thank you. -[2823.66 --> 2824.04] Thank you. -[2824.04 --> 2824.66] Thank you. -[2838.66 --> 2839.18] Thank you. -[2843.18 --> 2845.24] And then Mr. Mike. -[2846.90 --> 2848.72] Oh, coming out of the wind. -[2848.72 --> 2849.80] All right, here we go. -[2852.56 --> 2853.38] That one's for you. -[2854.78 --> 2855.46] Yeah, we're singing. -[2856.98 --> 2857.58] Worship team. -[2857.58 --> 2857.60] Worship team. -[2857.60 --> 2857.70] Worship team. -[2861.70 --> 2872.46] Worship team. -[2872.46 --> 2878.54] Worship team. -[2878.54 --> 2879.54] Amen. -[2908.54 --> 2922.46] Bless you and keep you, make his face shine upon you, be gracious to you. -[2922.46 --> 2936.46] The Lord turn his face towards you and give you peace. -[2938.54 --> 2957.32] The Lord bless you and keep you, make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[2957.32 --> 2971.76] The Lord turn his face towards you and give you peace. -[2971.76 --> 2975.76] Amen. -[2975.76 --> 2979.76] Amen. -[2979.76 --> 2981.76] Amen. -[2981.76 --> 2983.76] Amen. -[2983.76 --> 2985.76] Amen. -[2985.76 --> 2992.76] Amen. -[2992.76 --> 2997.76] Amen. -[2997.76 --> 2999.76] Amen. -[2999.76 --> 3003.36] Amen -[3003.36 --> 3010.86] The Lord bless you -[3010.86 --> 3014.92] And give you -[3014.92 --> 3019.78] Make his face shine upon you -[3019.78 --> 3022.94] And be gracious to you -[3022.94 --> 3029.94] The Lord turn his face toward you -[3029.94 --> 3036.94] And give you peace -[3036.94 --> 3044.94] Amen -[3044.94 --> 3048.94] Amen -[3048.94 --> 3056.94] Amen -[3056.94 --> 3062.94] Amen -[3062.94 --> 3066.94] Amen -[3066.94 --> 3070.94] Amen -[3070.94 --> 3078.94] Amen -[3078.94 --> 3080.94] Amen -[3080.94 --> 3082.94] Amen -[3082.94 --> 3084.94] Amen -[3084.94 --> 3090.94] May his favor be upon you -[3090.94 --> 3094.94] And a thousand generations -[3094.94 --> 3096.94] And your family -[3096.94 --> 3098.94] And your children -[3098.94 --> 3100.94] And their children -[3100.94 --> 3102.94] And their children -[3102.94 --> 3105.94] May his favor be upon you -[3105.94 --> 3109.94] And a thousand generations -[3109.94 --> 3111.94] And your family -[3111.94 --> 3113.94] And your children -[3113.94 --> 3115.94] And their children -[3115.94 --> 3117.94] And their children -[3117.94 --> 3120.94] May his presence go before you -[3120.94 --> 3122.94] And behind you -[3122.94 --> 3124.94] And beside you -[3124.94 --> 3126.94] All around you -[3126.94 --> 3128.94] And within you -[3128.94 --> 3130.94] He is with you -[3130.94 --> 3131.94] He is with you -[3131.94 --> 3133.94] In the morning -[3133.94 --> 3135.94] In the evening -[3135.94 --> 3137.94] In your coming -[3137.94 --> 3139.94] And your going -[3139.94 --> 3141.94] And your weeping -[3141.94 --> 3143.94] And rejoicing -[3143.94 --> 3144.66] A hundred -[3144.66 --> 3146.94] He is with you -[3146.94 --> 3147.94] He is with you -[3147.94 --> 3148.94] He is with you -[3148.94 --> 3160.28] He is with you -[3160.28 --> 3165.44] Amen -[3165.44 --> 3175.16] Amen, Amen, Amen. -[3175.16 --> 3190.44] Amen, Amen, Amen. -[3190.44 --> 3206.10] Amen, Amen, Amen. -[3206.10 --> 3217.90] Amen, Amen. -[3217.90 --> 3232.84] Amen, Amen. -[3232.84 --> 3233.00] Amen. -[3234.00 --> 3238.50] Okay, can we have all the kids back up front to do the children's blessings so that I believe -[3238.50 --> 3241.08] is ages three up to grade four. -[3247.90 --> 3253.78] Oh, there's a good crowd this week. -[3253.84 --> 3254.78] Nice to see you guys. -[3254.90 --> 3257.18] It's been a while, I think, since I've seen some of you. -[3257.18 --> 3262.68] I've made it onto the interweb a time or two, Zoe. -[3262.80 --> 3264.72] Thanks for being a fan. -[3266.58 --> 3271.04] So guys, have you guys, that was pretty cool, hey, seeing all those baptisms? -[3271.04 --> 3276.14] It was pretty cool, hey, seeing the baptisms today. -[3276.70 --> 3279.20] What's one of the big things that comes from a baptism? -[3279.40 --> 3281.72] What's a big thing we're reminded of with a baptism? -[3283.62 --> 3284.68] Yeah, the water. -[3284.82 --> 3287.34] It signifies a huge promise, right? -[3287.46 --> 3290.60] God is so much bigger than us and has big promises for us. -[3290.90 --> 3293.30] And we've been learning about that in children's worship time, right? -[3293.76 --> 3297.32] Can you guys remember what we've been, let's remind our moms and dads, what have we been -[3297.32 --> 3300.02] learning about in children's worship time lately? -[3300.40 --> 3301.72] And Zoe, we've got all the answers. -[3303.70 --> 3305.34] Yes, last week was Noah's Ark. -[3305.44 --> 3306.94] We're in the book of Genesis right now. -[3307.00 --> 3310.06] So last week was Noah's Ark, and before that we talked about the fall. -[3310.44 --> 3312.32] And what was another story we talked about recently? -[3317.86 --> 3318.70] Is it creation? -[3319.28 --> 3320.34] Yeah, creation. -[3320.34 --> 3321.36] We talked about creation. -[3321.78 --> 3325.96] So this week we've got another story about God's big promises, -[3325.96 --> 3329.04] and that is the Tower of Babel. -[3329.58 --> 3330.64] That's a crazy story. -[3331.08 --> 3332.96] So why don't we do the children's blessing, -[3333.48 --> 3338.10] and then we will go gather in the big room and learn about the Tower of Babel. -[3338.30 --> 3339.34] So let's all stand together. -[3341.64 --> 3343.82] And if the congregation can stand with us. -[3346.30 --> 3347.02] Ready, guys? -[3347.10 --> 3347.62] Hands up. -[3347.62 --> 3356.84] All right, let's go to children's worship time. -[3367.84 --> 3368.50] Is this still on? -[3368.70 --> 3369.14] Okay, yep. -[3371.80 --> 3372.16] Hello? -[3372.82 --> 3373.06] Yeah. -[3373.58 --> 3375.06] Man, I don't like my voice on this thing. -[3375.06 --> 3376.02] Okay. -[3376.98 --> 3377.64] Hey, everyone. -[3378.94 --> 3382.60] So last week it was announced that we're doing the care packages again -[3382.60 --> 3384.96] for the young adults that are studying abroad. -[3385.74 --> 3387.40] We still need a few more volunteers. -[3388.82 --> 3390.14] Just a quick recap. -[3390.14 --> 3396.24] We're getting either individuals, families, or groups of friends to volunteer -[3396.24 --> 3400.58] to buy stuff to send to young adults who are studying abroad, -[3400.58 --> 3402.84] so they still feel connected to this congregation. -[3403.96 --> 3408.58] If you want to volunteer and do that, please come contact me after church. -[3409.04 --> 3410.42] I'll connect you with a young adult, -[3410.58 --> 3413.30] which can help you personalize the stuff for them. -[3415.36 --> 3415.80] Thanks. -[3416.38 --> 3417.08] We've already got a volunteer. -[3418.92 --> 3420.50] Yeah, so please come contact me. -[3420.58 --> 3421.28] It would be great. -[3421.50 --> 3424.94] They loved it last year, and we're hoping to do this every semester. -[3424.94 --> 3429.64] You guys are great people, and you guys volunteer for a lot of things, -[3429.94 --> 3430.92] so thank you already. -[3431.62 --> 3432.02] Thanks. -[3437.40 --> 3438.18] Thanks, Josh. -[3439.56 --> 3441.42] Well, good morning, everyone. -[3441.86 --> 3443.54] Wow, that was fantastic, the baptism. -[3443.68 --> 3447.14] That's awesome, and having the kids up front here always on Sunday mornings -[3447.14 --> 3448.88] is always great. -[3448.88 --> 3452.66] I enjoy this time that I have with the kids up front, -[3452.74 --> 3454.74] like Mike sure does, and Kevin and everybody else, -[3454.86 --> 3459.74] but it's nice to see that we can try to get the kids to kind of break out -[3459.74 --> 3462.00] and speak out in front of the church here, -[3462.04 --> 3465.06] because of all the things we can hear in the back there in the back room -[3465.06 --> 3467.26] when we're doing children's worship with them. -[3467.32 --> 3467.98] It's pretty special. -[3468.18 --> 3472.68] So we hope that you get to see a little bit of that innocence -[3472.68 --> 3475.88] that we hear in the back that comes out up front here in church. -[3476.12 --> 3477.44] So that's great. -[3477.44 --> 3477.94] Thank you. -[3478.60 --> 3481.38] Today we're going to, right now we're going to do the family prayer, -[3481.68 --> 3485.68] and just want to go over a few things that are going on. -[3485.72 --> 3490.18] There's lots going on in our community, good things and some sad things. -[3491.12 --> 3494.38] Kuyper's family, some blessings that are happening there, -[3494.48 --> 3496.18] so you can check in the bulletin about that. -[3496.26 --> 3496.86] That's awesome. -[3497.80 --> 3501.34] Of course, the baptisms this morning is pretty special. -[3502.78 --> 3506.16] Unfortunately, there's been within our community a few deaths that have happened. -[3506.16 --> 3511.04] Joanne Miles has a nephew back in Saskatchewan that has passed away of cancer. -[3512.78 --> 3516.48] And close to home, Karen Vartstra's dad has passed away in the last week -[3516.48 --> 3518.68] from complications of COVID. -[3519.86 --> 3524.90] Some other COVID sadnesses happened. -[3525.16 --> 3529.02] Greta Visser's aunt, Mrs. Terpstra, also has passed away, -[3529.02 --> 3535.64] as well as Tim Bonkis' grandmother, passed away as well in the last week. -[3536.46 --> 3539.94] And of course, last week we had Peter Spahn and his kids were here, -[3540.04 --> 3546.78] so there's some more sadness that is happening there with COVID as well. -[3546.78 --> 3552.10] Kevin had mentioned to us that Patrick, Sarah Kring's brother, -[3552.24 --> 3557.26] has had a successful surgery, so that's an item of thanks. -[3558.38 --> 3561.68] And there's also a lot of people with COVID that are long haulers, -[3561.78 --> 3564.82] like still have respiratory issues that we need to keep in our prayer as well. -[3564.82 --> 3569.14] So this week we have classes is happening this week, -[3569.20 --> 3571.22] so there's a number of people within from our council, -[3571.42 --> 3574.74] as well as Pastor Chris and Kevin maybe, -[3575.40 --> 3578.32] going to join classes and participate in that. -[3578.38 --> 3582.50] That's a great event for our churches here. -[3582.50 --> 3586.96] And we also got to make sure we spend some time thinking about -[3586.96 --> 3590.54] those who are isolated, the shut-in, those who are lonely and depressed. -[3590.70 --> 3592.10] Like COVID's been hard on a lot of people, -[3592.20 --> 3595.80] so we've made all know someone in that kind of situation. -[3595.92 --> 3597.08] We've got to keep them in our prayers. -[3598.38 --> 3601.58] And with COVID, of course, a lot of people have had their surgeries -[3601.58 --> 3603.66] or other health care treatments that have been postponed, -[3603.86 --> 3607.24] so that's got to be tough on people when you're expecting to have something happen -[3607.24 --> 3610.62] and to better your life, and that gets postponed. -[3610.62 --> 3612.74] So let's keep those people in our prayers as well. -[3613.72 --> 3617.22] In my prayer today, I'm going to have a little bit of a break in there of silence -[3617.22 --> 3620.00] where you can pray for someone in your life -[3620.00 --> 3624.38] or that you know that you want to spend some time in prayer thinking about -[3624.38 --> 3628.88] and asking God for them to take care of those people. -[3630.08 --> 3630.66] Let's pray. -[3631.38 --> 3632.64] Dear God, thank you for this day. -[3633.80 --> 3637.16] Thank you that we can be here today and worship and fellowship together. -[3638.00 --> 3640.28] We're thankful for the children we see this morning -[3640.28 --> 3642.22] and for the baptisms we are able to witness. -[3643.06 --> 3645.92] We pray, Lord, that all these children will grow up knowing you -[3645.92 --> 3649.18] and know that they are your children -[3649.18 --> 3652.66] and that they know and feel the support from this church. -[3653.72 --> 3657.54] We are thankful, Lord, that life is beginning to get back to somewhat normal -[3657.54 --> 3659.84] after a year and a half of COVID restrictions. -[3660.72 --> 3664.02] Seeing extracurricular activities like sports and social events come back -[3664.02 --> 3666.38] is so encouraging and good for us social beings. -[3666.38 --> 3671.36] But this COVID crisis is still taking its toll and taking loved ones from us -[3671.36 --> 3673.60] and making others of us very sick. -[3674.22 --> 3677.36] We pray for healing and an end to this COVID chapter quickly. -[3678.66 --> 3681.34] We are thankful, Lord, for our political and health leaders -[3681.34 --> 3684.22] who have been navigating us through this period of unknowns, -[3684.44 --> 3688.18] trying to keep us all safe and healthy, both physically and mentally. -[3690.02 --> 3692.34] But, Lord, there are many things that we have on our minds -[3692.34 --> 3695.42] that cause stress and anxiety and take up a lot of our mental thoughts. -[3696.12 --> 3699.60] We all know someone who is sick, hurting, lonely, -[3699.84 --> 3701.52] suffering from mental health challenges. -[3702.12 --> 3704.62] And then there are those who suffer from hardships every day -[3704.62 --> 3706.08] that kind of get lost. -[3707.64 --> 3710.24] We want to take a few moments, Lord, right now in silence -[3710.24 --> 3712.16] to bring those concerns to you. -[3712.16 --> 3712.22] Thank you. -[3712.22 --> 3712.28] Thank you. -[3712.28 --> 3712.30] Thank you. -[3722.34 --> 3732.34] We thank you, Lord, for this church, -[3732.58 --> 3735.24] for the volunteers and staff that make this place happen. -[3736.14 --> 3739.16] We are blessed to have so many involved in the programs at this church -[3739.16 --> 3742.80] to make them run and help facilitate the culture in this congregation. -[3742.80 --> 3747.30] We pray for our staff and council as they work to keep the vision -[3747.30 --> 3749.00] of this church alive and moving forward. -[3749.90 --> 3752.50] We pray for wisdom for these people to navigate the challenges -[3752.50 --> 3754.92] and issues that come with being part of this church family. -[3756.96 --> 3759.06] Oh, Lord, may we honor you in all we do. -[3760.24 --> 3762.86] May we be a light for you in this world we live. -[3763.92 --> 3767.44] May people on our path this week see that your Holy Spirit is in us -[3767.44 --> 3768.10] in all we do. -[3769.10 --> 3771.32] And help us, Lord, not to be Sunday Christians, -[3771.32 --> 3773.28] but seven-day-a-week followers of you. -[3774.38 --> 3776.12] We ask all these things in your name alone. -[3776.46 --> 3776.66] Amen. -[3792.82 --> 3794.00] Good morning, everyone. -[3795.34 --> 3796.14] Microphone's good, Courtney? -[3796.52 --> 3797.20] Sounds good. -[3797.52 --> 3798.44] My voice sounds loud. -[3798.44 --> 3803.46] So I never had cats or dogs in my house growing up. -[3803.80 --> 3805.04] My mom was never really a fan. -[3805.50 --> 3808.32] We had fish, sure, and my sister tormented her fair share of hamsters, -[3808.46 --> 3810.56] but we didn't really have any pets bigger than my head -[3810.56 --> 3812.46] walking around our house when I was young. -[3812.76 --> 3813.64] They were too messy. -[3814.00 --> 3814.84] They were too much energy. -[3814.94 --> 3815.70] They were too much work. -[3816.24 --> 3816.80] But that was fine. -[3817.10 --> 3817.90] That was fine with me. -[3817.96 --> 3819.10] I didn't actually care that much. -[3819.16 --> 3821.42] I was a little bit too interested in sports -[3821.42 --> 3824.26] to worry about what kind of animals were in our house. -[3824.82 --> 3826.98] Me and my brother and my dad, we would watch sports. -[3826.98 --> 3828.14] We would play sports. -[3828.22 --> 3829.54] We were into fantasy sports. -[3829.62 --> 3830.30] I loved all of it. -[3831.14 --> 3832.36] And then I met Nikki. -[3833.16 --> 3834.00] She loves animals. -[3834.24 --> 3836.72] She grew up with cats and dogs in her house all her life. -[3836.94 --> 3839.06] She wasn't as into sports as I was, though. -[3839.74 --> 3842.48] She said soccer was dumb when we first met. -[3843.92 --> 3845.02] That was almost the end. -[3846.82 --> 3848.36] Now, in fairness, she was into gymnastics, -[3848.58 --> 3849.46] and she played basketball, -[3849.46 --> 3851.44] so it's not like sports weren't a part of her life, -[3851.44 --> 3853.88] but to watch them or, heaven forbid, -[3853.98 --> 3855.48] be a part of fantasy sports, -[3855.48 --> 3856.70] that never really crossed her mind. -[3857.30 --> 3859.14] We've been married now for 12 years. -[3859.38 --> 3862.32] We've just welcomed our second dog into our family -[3862.32 --> 3863.56] a couple months ago. -[3863.64 --> 3864.38] His name's Oslo. -[3864.64 --> 3866.00] We have a cat, too, named Nala. -[3866.68 --> 3868.00] I love our pets, to be honest with you. -[3868.08 --> 3868.96] Sounds weird, but it's true. -[3869.00 --> 3869.20] I do. -[3869.26 --> 3869.96] I love my pets. -[3870.24 --> 3871.88] Maybe not as much as Nikki does, but I do. -[3872.00 --> 3873.18] I love our dog, our cat. -[3873.22 --> 3873.80] We have frogs. -[3874.68 --> 3875.56] I love my pets. -[3875.84 --> 3877.14] Nikki's come around on soccer, too. -[3877.44 --> 3880.02] She's even played on a few soccer teams with me over the years. -[3880.02 --> 3883.32] She also just stepped back from playing 10 years of fantasy hockey, -[3883.72 --> 3886.10] fairly successful manager in our dynasty hockey pool. -[3887.46 --> 3893.38] It turns out you start to love what your loved ones love. -[3894.88 --> 3895.72] Think about it. -[3895.72 --> 3899.00] We've all been influenced by our parents or our caregivers in this regard. -[3899.26 --> 3900.58] We've inherited their hobbies. -[3900.80 --> 3902.74] We often follow their passions. -[3903.14 --> 3905.06] We love the things our friends love, too. -[3905.38 --> 3908.40] You watch Survivor together on Wednesday night. -[3908.40 --> 3910.70] You listen to the same music, perhaps. -[3911.16 --> 3913.58] Some of you even share clothes with your friends. -[3914.64 --> 3917.88] What our loved ones love, we learn to love. -[3917.94 --> 3919.46] It's part of being in relationship. -[3920.10 --> 3921.52] So think about your own life for a moment. -[3921.62 --> 3929.20] What is something you love now that is a direct result of someone you love loving that thing first? -[3930.28 --> 3932.00] So just hold on to that for a second. -[3932.08 --> 3932.94] It's going to come in handy later. -[3932.94 --> 3938.98] For now, though, grab your Bibles, open them up, pull out your phones or whatever devices your Bible's on. -[3939.24 --> 3942.96] We're going to look at the second chapter of 1 Peter today. -[3943.08 --> 3949.30] We're continuing our series on 1 Peter, and we're going to look at the second chapter right now. -[3949.34 --> 3952.02] We're going to read verses 4 through 10. -[3952.02 --> 3955.72] So grab those Bibles, open them up, and read with me there. -[3956.62 --> 3958.54] 1 Peter 2, 4 to 10 says this. -[3959.88 --> 3966.46] As you come to him, the living stone, rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him, -[3967.16 --> 3973.46] you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, -[3973.88 --> 3978.64] offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. -[3978.64 --> 3980.66] For in Scripture it says, -[3980.66 --> 3985.18] See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, -[3985.42 --> 3988.18] and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame. -[3989.14 --> 3991.20] Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. -[3992.14 --> 3997.74] But to those who don't believe, the stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone, -[3998.14 --> 4002.16] and a stone that causes people to stumble and a rock that makes them fall. -[4002.40 --> 4008.32] They stumble because they disobey the message, which is also what they were destined for. -[4008.64 --> 4018.82] But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, -[4019.48 --> 4024.94] that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into this wonderful light. -[4026.26 --> 4029.56] Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God. -[4029.56 --> 4034.76] Once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. -[4035.56 --> 4037.18] The word of the Lord. -[4040.12 --> 4046.76] We are the church chosen by God to declare the gospel. -[4048.28 --> 4050.58] We are the church. -[4050.78 --> 4053.34] There's a lot of imagery in this text today, isn't there? -[4053.34 --> 4055.22] Peter, he loves his analogies. -[4055.34 --> 4059.16] And often, like today's text, he uses analogies that are layered. -[4059.72 --> 4062.50] So in verses 4 and 5 of our text today, for example, -[4062.62 --> 4065.84] Jesus is both the cornerstone on which the temple is built, -[4065.98 --> 4068.04] but also the builder who builds the temple. -[4068.58 --> 4072.70] And we, the readers, the people of God, we are both the temple which he is building, -[4072.96 --> 4076.38] but also the priests who operate in the temple. -[4077.72 --> 4078.54] It can be tricky. -[4078.62 --> 4079.42] It can be confusing. -[4079.42 --> 4083.88] So in light of this, let's break down some of this imagery, lay it all out, see how it works, -[4084.04 --> 4087.28] and then we'll move on with some of these analogies. -[4088.92 --> 4091.20] First, Jesus is called the living stone. -[4091.30 --> 4092.52] This is a mixed metaphor. -[4092.80 --> 4097.76] Stones, of course, they're solid, they're steadfast, they're unchanging, they're supportive. -[4098.62 --> 4101.00] Jesus, though, is the living stone. -[4102.28 --> 4104.74] He's stable, he's steadfast, he's foundational, -[4105.16 --> 4108.56] but he's also alive and he's active. -[4109.42 --> 4114.04] He's not immobile and stationary, he's involved and he's engaged. -[4115.26 --> 4118.76] Temple imagery dominates verses 4 and 5 of our text. -[4118.84 --> 4122.08] The temple was this super large and impressive building, -[4122.16 --> 4125.52] a place where God dwelt with his people. -[4125.88 --> 4131.50] It's where priests offered sacrifices to atone for the sins of the Israelite community. -[4131.50 --> 4137.10] The temple helped the Israelite people identify as God's people. -[4138.34 --> 4140.82] So for your notes' sake, here's a breakdown of this. -[4140.92 --> 4142.26] Jesus is the living stone. -[4142.52 --> 4144.24] He's active and he's steadfast. -[4144.34 --> 4146.80] He's the cornerstone on which his church is founded. -[4147.12 --> 4148.38] Jesus is also the architect. -[4148.92 --> 4151.62] He's the one building the temple where God dwells. -[4152.02 --> 4157.44] The living stones which this temple is built out of is us, the church, God's people. -[4157.44 --> 4162.88] Collectively, we are the church, the place where God now dwells. -[4163.70 --> 4167.08] And his people, us, the church, we are also the priests -[4167.08 --> 4173.02] in charge of offering spiritual sacrifices as our text lays out. -[4173.60 --> 4176.62] So all of us are now collectively the holy priesthood. -[4177.28 --> 4181.70] We no longer have to offer sacrifices of animals to atone for our sins -[4181.70 --> 4185.06] because Christ came into this world and became the ultimate sacrifice. -[4185.06 --> 4186.94] He was the atonement for us. -[4187.00 --> 4187.78] Our sins are forgiven. -[4188.66 --> 4192.86] So because of that sacrifice, instead of offering animal sacrifices, -[4193.04 --> 4197.26] we are to offer spiritual sacrifices, as our text says, -[4197.32 --> 4201.44] that are acceptable to God because Christ has forgiven us. -[4202.50 --> 4205.18] Now, Peter, later, he goes down and he starts breaking down -[4205.18 --> 4208.56] what these spiritual sacrifices are throughout the rest of this chapter. -[4208.70 --> 4211.34] And so that will come for a sermon series a little bit later. -[4211.34 --> 4215.74] But some of those sacrifices are things like resisting evil, doing good, -[4216.08 --> 4221.38] enduring pain and suffering without retaliating, and living holy lives. -[4221.86 --> 4222.66] You know, things like that. -[4224.18 --> 4227.72] So that's the very embarrassingly brief breakdown of the imagery in our text today. -[4227.76 --> 4228.80] But what does this all mean? -[4231.00 --> 4233.20] Well, we love what our loved ones love. -[4233.20 --> 4237.54] Our text today calls Jesus the cornerstone. -[4238.68 --> 4242.06] And his people, his temple. -[4242.90 --> 4247.14] In other places in the Word, Jesus is called the head. -[4247.90 --> 4249.48] And his people are the body. -[4249.90 --> 4250.92] Or maybe you remember this one. -[4251.14 --> 4253.12] In other places, Jesus is called the groom. -[4253.68 --> 4255.72] And again, his people are the bride. -[4256.72 --> 4261.14] In all of those examples, you can't have one without the other. -[4261.14 --> 4262.70] A head without a body is useless. -[4263.08 --> 4265.50] A groom without a bride is just a man. -[4265.80 --> 4269.50] A foundation without a building or a temple is a slab of concrete. -[4270.42 --> 4273.64] Jesus loves the church so much so that he died for it. -[4274.24 --> 4275.76] He wants to be with us. -[4275.82 --> 4276.94] There's a union there. -[4277.02 --> 4278.20] He desires that union. -[4278.44 --> 4281.66] And he knows that without that union, we are useless. -[4283.02 --> 4286.02] Without Jesus, we're a building about to crumble. -[4286.74 --> 4289.18] We're a headless body entering rigor mortis. -[4289.18 --> 4292.26] We can't be a bride without a groom. -[4295.62 --> 4299.46] Unfortunately, in our world today, there's many Christians, both young and old, -[4300.42 --> 4304.16] that feel that you can love Jesus without loving the church. -[4305.62 --> 4309.12] They lie on empty foundations, but they're exposed to the elements. -[4309.26 --> 4313.50] They want the head of Christ, but they are unwilling to be a part of the body. -[4313.50 --> 4320.00] They look at the groom with fondness, but they don't want to be a part or be the bride. -[4321.10 --> 4324.54] You can't love Jesus without loving the church. -[4324.86 --> 4326.90] That's not what relationship is. -[4328.24 --> 4329.46] Kevin DeYoung puts it this way. -[4329.54 --> 4329.98] It's beautiful. -[4330.14 --> 4330.76] It's grotesque. -[4330.80 --> 4331.40] But he says this. -[4331.50 --> 4334.28] He says, some of us want a decorpulated Christianity. -[4334.42 --> 4335.02] I love that word. -[4335.28 --> 4337.36] A decorpulated Christianity. -[4337.36 --> 4341.50] Some of us want a decapitated Jesus. -[4343.32 --> 4345.54] But you can't have Jesus without the church. -[4345.88 --> 4347.08] Jesus loves the church. -[4347.58 --> 4348.94] The church loves Jesus. -[4350.60 --> 4356.16] We are the church chosen by God to declare the gospel. -[4356.16 --> 4361.98] The language used throughout this text is together language. -[4362.12 --> 4364.86] This is not I language or me language. -[4364.98 --> 4366.64] This is we language. -[4366.84 --> 4368.74] We are the church that Jesus is building. -[4369.00 --> 4370.26] It's not made out of one stone. -[4370.36 --> 4371.66] It's made out of many stones. -[4372.04 --> 4373.26] We don't go to church. -[4373.50 --> 4375.00] We are the church. -[4375.12 --> 4380.20] This church is built up as a community who supports and lifts up one another. -[4381.20 --> 4384.52] Now, I've witnessed that here at this church, and it's beautiful. -[4384.52 --> 4387.58] This community has gone through some trying times. -[4387.70 --> 4389.44] It's gone through some celebratory times. -[4389.60 --> 4391.58] But through all of it, we've gone through it together. -[4392.74 --> 4394.18] That's what church family does. -[4394.64 --> 4396.52] When someone's going through something, you show up. -[4396.88 --> 4397.88] You pray for them. -[4397.96 --> 4399.50] You be present for them. -[4400.86 --> 4405.56] You can also trust that when the inevitable day comes, when you're going through something, -[4406.26 --> 4408.20] your community will be there for you. -[4408.20 --> 4417.58] That's why it's so tragic to see churches get divided over trivial or selfish things like -[4417.58 --> 4422.10] foyer furnishings or what songs we sing on Sunday. -[4423.12 --> 4427.64] And I'm just going to name it, and people might be mad at this, or masking policies during -[4427.64 --> 4428.18] a pandemic. -[4428.18 --> 4433.50] We're built together by Christ as his temple. -[4433.78 --> 4438.86] We cannot let these little things, these individual things, break us. -[4438.94 --> 4441.06] Individual rights, that's I language. -[4442.28 --> 4445.34] It should never supersede the communal bond of being the church together. -[4445.70 --> 4448.34] We are the church. -[4449.92 --> 4451.48] Christ loves the church. -[4451.48 --> 4454.50] We must love the church. -[4454.62 --> 4457.34] This togetherness language, it continues in verse 9. -[4458.44 --> 4460.52] There we read, we are a chosen people. -[4460.74 --> 4462.38] We are a royal priesthood. -[4462.54 --> 4463.80] We are a holy nation. -[4463.98 --> 4466.82] We are God's special possessions. -[4467.50 --> 4470.20] We are together. -[4471.42 --> 4476.50] We are the church chosen by God to declare the gospel. -[4476.68 --> 4478.08] Chosen by God. -[4478.08 --> 4484.98] We are God's chosen people together because of what Christ did for us all, right? -[4486.06 --> 4491.38] Christ, Jesus Christ, he came to this earth and he lived the life that we should have all -[4491.38 --> 4491.74] lived. -[4492.10 --> 4497.06] And then he died the death that we all deserved to die in our place. -[4497.60 --> 4500.52] He became the sacrifice for us, atoning for our sin. -[4500.58 --> 4507.20] And then three days later, he rose again from the dead, declaring that sin and death had no -[4507.20 --> 4508.44] hold on him anymore. -[4509.48 --> 4514.90] And now because of that gospel truth of Christ's life, his death, and his resurrection, the -[4514.90 --> 4521.96] privilege of Jesus' obedience is now applied to the church, to all of us who believe. -[4521.96 --> 4528.60] We are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possessions, so -[4528.60 --> 4533.90] that we may declare the praises of him who, again, by his life, death, and resurrection, -[4533.90 --> 4535.24] called us out of what? -[4535.24 --> 4535.74] Darkness. -[4537.26 --> 4539.10] And into his wonderful light. -[4540.84 --> 4548.00] This identity of being God's chosen people is highlighted here this morning. -[4548.46 --> 4553.92] We baptized April and Dawson and Reuben this morning because they are a part of this promise. -[4554.98 --> 4561.10] They have all been chosen by God because, as Galatians 3 says, God's kingdom knows no gender, -[4561.10 --> 4563.14] no race, no age. -[4563.96 --> 4571.18] Our identity, as Peter says here, is not one we achieve, not one we achieve or accomplish -[4571.18 --> 4575.64] ourselves, but our identity is received by God. -[4577.26 --> 4579.54] Our identity is that we belong to Jesus. -[4579.68 --> 4580.80] We are a chosen people. -[4581.26 --> 4582.18] We are the church. -[4582.28 --> 4583.22] We are brothers and sisters. -[4583.36 --> 4586.24] We are a new creation, as it says in 2 Corinthians. -[4586.42 --> 4589.44] We are citizens of heaven, as it says in Philippians 3. -[4589.44 --> 4592.44] We are God's children, like it says in 1 John. -[4592.52 --> 4596.74] We are heirs of Christ, like it says in Romans. -[4596.96 --> 4604.10] Over and over and over again in the Bible, we read about how our identity has been given -[4604.10 --> 4606.10] to us by God. -[4607.72 --> 4610.12] This is so important right now. -[4610.34 --> 4615.50] It's so important in the culture we find ourselves in because in our modern Western culture, -[4615.50 --> 4619.18] we obsess about our identities. -[4620.50 --> 4626.64] Tim Keller points out some incredible realities on our identities that's being shaped by our -[4626.64 --> 4629.78] culture right now, so his voice is going to be entangled in the next five minutes here. -[4631.96 --> 4634.84] See, our identities are central to who we are. -[4635.78 --> 4638.12] Our identities give us a sense of worth in this world. -[4638.20 --> 4643.94] They get to the core of who we are and what makes us valuable in the context we find ourselves -[4643.94 --> 4645.94] in. -[4645.94 --> 4651.56] The problem is right now, as Christians, it's easy to profess God as our Lord and Savior, -[4652.56 --> 4655.92] but also let culture dictate who you are. -[4656.94 --> 4659.72] Also let culture dictate what your identity is. -[4661.34 --> 4666.96] We can say we're God's chosen people, but culture more often than not will point us in -[4666.96 --> 4668.68] an entirely different direction. -[4668.68 --> 4675.90] Historically, traditionally, people used to get their identities from their communities. -[4676.36 --> 4679.86] So traditionally, people's identities were rooted in the communities that they lived. -[4679.92 --> 4682.60] You were someone's son or someone's daughter. -[4682.74 --> 4685.26] You were someone's father or someone's mother. -[4685.38 --> 4691.04] You were known as part of a fabric of a town or a village, and you were known in that town -[4691.04 --> 4694.02] by the family you were a part of and the company that you kept. -[4694.10 --> 4694.92] That was your identity. -[4694.92 --> 4696.68] It was a communal identity. -[4697.94 --> 4699.86] In our culture, this is drastically different. -[4701.06 --> 4705.76] You've been told to look inside yourself to find out who you are. -[4706.68 --> 4713.16] You have to look deep within your soul, and there you will find your dreams and your passions. -[4713.52 --> 4715.86] You'll find your feelings, your intuitions. -[4716.62 --> 4718.12] And then what are you to do with those? -[4719.78 --> 4720.72] Express them. -[4721.74 --> 4722.80] That's who you are. -[4722.80 --> 4725.00] Don't let anyone else define you. -[4727.18 --> 4728.02] Find yourself. -[4728.14 --> 4730.60] And if you look deep enough, you can discover who you are. -[4731.58 --> 4734.64] If you can't, go on a trip and go find yourself. -[4736.98 --> 4737.80] Discover yourself. -[4737.94 --> 4742.60] Only you can define you, and far be it for anyone else to tell you who you are. -[4743.84 --> 4745.24] You can push this further, too. -[4745.34 --> 4746.52] Tim Keller uses this language. -[4746.52 --> 4749.90] He uses the language of a heroic narrative. -[4750.64 --> 4755.16] So again, traditionally, the heroic narrative, the story that made you a hero in traditional -[4755.16 --> 4757.16] cultures, was to deny yourself. -[4757.80 --> 4762.30] Was to actually deny yourself for the benefit and the purposes of your family and your community. -[4762.30 --> 4767.58] If you were to give yourself up for your family or your neighbors, that was honorable. -[4769.02 --> 4773.42] The heroic narrative of all culture is not self-denial, though. -[4773.84 --> 4774.60] It's the opposite. -[4775.08 --> 4778.94] Our heroic narrative in our Western culture is self-declaration. -[4778.94 --> 4786.22] People are now praised when they come out and stand up and declare themselves as something -[4786.22 --> 4786.98] or someone. -[4787.76 --> 4795.12] And they're especially praised if they do this at the expense of oppression or the oppressors, -[4795.46 --> 4799.80] which often takes the form of family or society or community. -[4799.80 --> 4805.48] In our culture, to think that someone else could name who you are, that someone else could help -[4805.48 --> 4810.16] shape you, someone else could form your identity, is villainous, actually. -[4811.14 --> 4815.70] But if you can discover yourself, if you can look inside your soul and discover yourself, -[4815.78 --> 4821.50] despite the tyranny of your family or society holding you down, that is praised right now -[4821.50 --> 4822.06] in our world. -[4822.70 --> 4826.44] And then once you discover who you are, you get to go on TikTok or on Instagram or some -[4826.44 --> 4829.10] other social media platform and announce it to the world. -[4829.80 --> 4835.00] What your newfound identity is, and you get to receive a flood of likes by a community -[4835.00 --> 4838.60] that probably doesn't even know you, which ironically affirms the decision that you've -[4838.60 --> 4840.12] made because community matters. -[4842.38 --> 4852.32] The problem is, trying to find your identity within yourself, it's not healthy, and it goes -[4852.32 --> 4854.54] against what God's calling on your life is. -[4854.88 --> 4856.86] Now, there's a bunch of reasons why, but we'll list two. -[4856.86 --> 4865.16] Firstly, looking within myself to my own passions, my own feelings, my own intuitions, to find -[4865.16 --> 4867.12] an identity is unstable. -[4869.06 --> 4876.52] My, Kevin's, me, my feelings, my passions, my intuitions have changed with the seasons, -[4876.66 --> 4878.52] it seems, as I grow older. -[4878.52 --> 4880.94] Yours all do, too. -[4882.22 --> 4886.14] 20-year-olds out there, if you're 20 years old, how many of you can look back at yourself -[4886.14 --> 4888.36] at the age of 15 and be like, yeah, I had it all together. -[4888.96 --> 4889.64] I knew life. -[4889.70 --> 4891.28] I wasn't doing anything dumb at 15. -[4891.52 --> 4892.72] I dare you to raise your hand. -[4893.76 --> 4895.52] 30-year-olds, look back at when you were 20. -[4895.60 --> 4896.44] Do you say the same thing? -[4896.66 --> 4899.50] You look back at yourself at 20 and be like, no, I had it sorted back then. -[4900.06 --> 4900.64] I had life. -[4900.64 --> 4900.94] No. -[4902.08 --> 4907.76] 50-year-olds, have your feelings, your convictions, your personal views, have they stayed completely -[4907.76 --> 4909.38] constant over the last 20 years? -[4910.82 --> 4911.72] No, of course not. -[4912.24 --> 4915.64] I'm not even going to ask the 60 to 100-year-olds in the crowd here today because they're going -[4915.64 --> 4916.30] to roll their eyes at me. -[4917.04 --> 4918.70] No, of course not. -[4918.70 --> 4924.28] Our convictions, our opinions, our feelings, our passions, they change as our lives evolve. -[4925.18 --> 4926.20] This happens to all of us. -[4926.26 --> 4927.38] We discover new things. -[4927.82 --> 4931.82] What once brought joy now brings pain and vice versa. -[4932.94 --> 4936.20] Love we once knew may now be gone. -[4936.48 --> 4941.08] And things we never knew before now may be the most important things in our lives. -[4941.14 --> 4941.92] That's life. -[4943.42 --> 4946.56] Ask any of the parents who just baptized their baby this morning. -[4948.70 --> 4950.16] Life changes. -[4951.44 --> 4959.14] Looking inward to your feelings and passions and intuitions to form your identity is fickle -[4959.14 --> 4959.84] at best. -[4961.26 --> 4962.26] God created us. -[4962.40 --> 4965.02] God created life way too complex for that. -[4967.00 --> 4974.60] Secondly, an identity that's achieved rather than received is exclusive by nature. -[4974.60 --> 4981.08] We can't base our identities on the things that we accomplish because that either elevates -[4981.08 --> 4982.26] or deflates us. -[4982.82 --> 4983.42] Think about it. -[4983.44 --> 4986.72] Maybe you're the best soccer player in your school growing up. -[4987.18 --> 4988.20] You play often. -[4988.32 --> 4989.34] You realize, hey, I'm good. -[4989.56 --> 4990.34] I love soccer. -[4990.38 --> 4991.06] I'm a soccer player. -[4991.48 --> 4992.06] I'm the best. -[4992.80 --> 4995.24] Then you graduate high school and you go to university and uh-oh. -[4996.38 --> 4997.52] You're not the best anymore. -[4998.28 --> 4999.62] You actually, you barely made the team. -[4999.62 --> 5002.82] That Christmas comes and you go down to Mexico. -[5002.94 --> 5003.44] You need a break. -[5003.50 --> 5004.14] You're on a vacation. -[5004.32 --> 5005.34] You walk into a little town. -[5005.92 --> 5008.16] You realize, oh no, there's 10-year-olds playing soccer here. -[5008.90 --> 5009.94] They're better than me. -[5011.78 --> 5017.54] Your identity as a soccer player is based purely on your skill level compared to everyone -[5017.54 --> 5018.34] else around you. -[5019.26 --> 5024.20] Your confidence in your identity now starts waning every time you see someone better than -[5024.20 --> 5024.38] you. -[5025.84 --> 5028.10] That's what achieving your own identity does. -[5028.10 --> 5030.24] It pits you against the rest of humanity. -[5030.68 --> 5033.30] You feel better so long as you're trashing other people. -[5034.04 --> 5040.12] As long as people aren't as skilled or enlightened or hardworking or insightful, you feel pretty -[5040.12 --> 5040.44] good. -[5042.68 --> 5048.72] But when others come around who are better or more insightful or they work harder or they're -[5048.72 --> 5053.84] more enlightened, seemingly, that's the pressing that deflates you. -[5053.84 --> 5059.10] Finding our identities within ourself is fickle. -[5059.36 --> 5062.76] Trying to achieve our own identities is exclusive to everyone else. -[5064.80 --> 5067.88] But rather than doing either, we need to look to Christ as our example. -[5068.52 --> 5070.20] Philippians 2, verse 7, it says this. -[5070.26 --> 5071.56] Get this from the King James Version. -[5071.56 --> 5076.92] He says, Jesus came down and made himself of no reputation. -[5078.12 --> 5081.02] Made himself of no reputation. -[5081.72 --> 5085.04] He became a servant and he humbled himself. -[5086.24 --> 5090.36] And obeyed God right up until death on a cross. -[5090.36 --> 5097.50] We look inwards and try to build ourselves up that way, build our identities that way. -[5097.54 --> 5099.10] We try to grow our reputation. -[5099.58 --> 5101.72] And Jesus came to the earth and did the exact opposite. -[5102.36 --> 5103.16] He looked outwards. -[5104.76 --> 5109.68] He saw what we were mired in and he came down and he made himself of no reputation to save -[5109.68 --> 5110.02] us. -[5111.50 --> 5112.90] And he knew he was chosen. -[5112.90 --> 5117.94] Peter is saying in our text today that you know who you are. -[5118.74 --> 5123.36] You don't need to dig deep within yourself or build your identities by comparing yourself -[5123.36 --> 5124.40] to the world around you. -[5125.18 --> 5128.80] You are a chosen people, a holy nation. -[5128.96 --> 5132.14] Our identities are achieved, are not achieved, sorry. -[5132.62 --> 5133.58] They are received. -[5134.70 --> 5135.14] Hallelujah. -[5137.72 --> 5141.72] We are a God who says we are a chosen, holy, and we are precious. -[5143.30 --> 5146.42] This truth needs to permeate our hearts regularly. -[5146.54 --> 5148.82] That's why we're called to pray regularly. -[5148.94 --> 5150.70] That's why we're called to read the word. -[5150.82 --> 5152.04] That's why we're called to fast. -[5152.34 --> 5156.28] That's why we're called to come together and gather as a community because we need to -[5156.28 --> 5159.36] be constantly reminded that our identity is in Christ. -[5159.68 --> 5160.82] We belong to him. -[5163.74 --> 5164.92] And we are called to go. -[5166.54 --> 5171.84] We are the church chosen by God to declare the gospel. -[5171.84 --> 5174.92] Notice what our text says here. -[5175.70 --> 5180.06] It says, we are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession that -[5180.06 --> 5180.78] we may, what? -[5182.36 --> 5187.28] Declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. -[5188.06 --> 5189.76] And this is the final point, so stay with me here. -[5189.76 --> 5194.64] So often we use this terminology of sharing the gospel. -[5194.90 --> 5195.92] Go share the gospel. -[5196.96 --> 5199.50] I've come to learn that this language actually is a bit of a problem. -[5200.42 --> 5204.50] Sharing implies that there is a willing recipient. -[5204.50 --> 5208.90] So if I tell my kids to share their toys, it's because one kid feels left out. -[5209.30 --> 5213.70] If I'm sharing my money with someone who is in need, they're willing to receive it because -[5213.70 --> 5214.30] they're in need. -[5215.46 --> 5220.60] If we are sharing stories, people are willing to hear it because they're listening. -[5221.98 --> 5228.66] The act of sharing implies that the person we are sharing it with is willing to receive -[5228.66 --> 5230.02] it, to accept it. -[5230.02 --> 5234.28] And I think that's how we approach our mission here on this earth. -[5234.38 --> 5239.00] We won't share the gospel with someone unless we know they're willing to receive it. -[5240.32 --> 5244.60] We don't want to push people too hard, and we definitely don't want to feel uncomfortable -[5244.60 --> 5250.04] ourselves, so only share with people who want to hear it. -[5250.78 --> 5254.36] Or we default to hoping that our actions will just do the job for us and we don't have to -[5254.36 --> 5255.18] open our mouths at all. -[5255.18 --> 5262.24] Unfortunately, that means that we miss opportunities to declare his praises, like our text says today. -[5262.76 --> 5267.18] We wait for these moments where the one who needs to hear this news is good and ready to -[5267.18 --> 5267.84] hear this news. -[5268.50 --> 5270.58] And that moment might never come. -[5272.84 --> 5275.34] Brothers and sisters, we are not called to share the gospel. -[5276.82 --> 5279.64] We're called to declare the gospel. -[5279.64 --> 5282.94] The receptivity? -[5283.94 --> 5284.34] Receptivity. -[5284.90 --> 5285.48] That's the word. -[5285.62 --> 5290.10] The receptivity of our audience does not play into this equation. -[5291.42 --> 5295.60] Now, obviously, I'm not saying that we should all go by bullhorns and stand on the corner -[5295.60 --> 5301.38] of the street and shout into these things and sin-shame strangers into turning to God lest -[5301.38 --> 5302.92] they burn in a pit of hell forever. -[5302.92 --> 5303.42] No. -[5305.26 --> 5312.20] What I'm saying is, we all have someone we can think of right now. -[5313.42 --> 5316.94] Someone who needs to hear this news. -[5317.10 --> 5323.10] Someone who needs to hear that Jesus lived and died and rose again for them. -[5324.38 --> 5329.58] And that their identities are secured in him because of that truth. -[5329.58 --> 5336.16] Jesus, you're all thinking of someone right now who needs to hear that Jesus loves them. -[5337.38 --> 5340.08] That Jesus loves them so much that he died for them. -[5341.94 --> 5348.20] You're all thinking of someone right now, and you might be waiting to share this news with -[5348.20 --> 5350.54] them until they're ready to hear it. -[5350.54 --> 5362.18] But what Peter is saying here is that waiting for them to be more receptive is not for you to worry about. -[5364.14 --> 5370.40] You are called to declare God's praises no matter the audience. -[5370.40 --> 5376.98] And so, I have a challenge for you today. -[5377.74 --> 5383.10] Actually, God has a calling for you, is a better way to say it. -[5384.30 --> 5391.74] Whoever was on your heart before, whoever it is that you know needs to hear God's love, -[5392.58 --> 5396.70] whoever needs to hear about Jesus' life and death and resurrection, -[5396.70 --> 5401.06] whoever needs to hear of your story of God's faithfulness in your life, -[5401.82 --> 5406.44] your calling this week is to go and declare it to them. -[5408.34 --> 5411.98] So we collectively, as a church, this week, we are going to go out and have at least -[5411.98 --> 5416.24] 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 15, 20, 40, 250, -[5416.64 --> 5420.26] 180 online, 250 conversations this week. -[5421.00 --> 5422.70] That is what we as a church are going to do. -[5422.70 --> 5428.76] Maybe it's a sibling or a cousin or a son or a daughter or a parent -[5428.76 --> 5430.90] or a parent on your kid's soccer team -[5430.90 --> 5433.98] or a colleague you know at work that you see every day. -[5436.56 --> 5438.52] Right now, this text is calling you -[5438.52 --> 5441.08] to go and declare God's praises to them. -[5444.04 --> 5446.28] And so we're going to go have those conversations this week. -[5447.02 --> 5448.70] No matter how old you are here today, -[5448.78 --> 5449.88] no matter your comfort zone, -[5450.24 --> 5452.28] no matter if you like being challenged at church or not, -[5452.70 --> 5457.74] we're going to go and declare God's praises. -[5459.00 --> 5460.96] And Pastor Chris and I are going to follow up this week. -[5462.30 --> 5463.44] You're looking for it later, -[5464.02 --> 5465.70] but we're going to reach out to all of you -[5465.70 --> 5466.68] and we're going to hold you to this. -[5467.24 --> 5468.86] We want to hear these stories, -[5469.16 --> 5471.52] not just to like check off a box, -[5471.88 --> 5473.82] but because it's important to hear these stories -[5473.82 --> 5475.38] so that we can share them with each other -[5475.38 --> 5477.82] and spur each other on to keep doing this. -[5478.62 --> 5480.42] We want to lift each other up. -[5480.42 --> 5483.78] No matter how well these conversations go -[5483.78 --> 5485.24] or how poorly they go in your eyes, -[5485.78 --> 5488.32] we want to encourage each other -[5488.32 --> 5489.84] and lift each other up with these stories. -[5489.94 --> 5492.62] We are the church chosen by God -[5492.62 --> 5496.46] to declare the gospel together. -[5496.46 --> 5499.12] And so, -[5499.60 --> 5504.90] declare God's name to whomever was on your heart this week. -[5506.90 --> 5508.02] We are the church. -[5508.78 --> 5509.06] Check. -[5510.62 --> 5511.82] Chosen by God. -[5512.40 --> 5513.10] Identity, right. -[5513.74 --> 5514.08] Check. -[5514.92 --> 5518.42] To declare the gospel of Jesus Christ. -[5518.42 --> 5518.50] Christ. -[5519.94 --> 5521.48] That's the to-do this week. -[5522.32 --> 5523.36] It's only one item long, -[5523.72 --> 5525.54] but as our mission statement says, -[5525.74 --> 5526.30] we've gathered, -[5527.24 --> 5528.14] hopefully we've grown, -[5529.04 --> 5530.02] but now we must go. -[5531.04 --> 5532.50] With God as our cornerstone, -[5532.60 --> 5534.68] let us declare his name. -[5534.82 --> 5535.00] Amen? -[5536.00 --> 5536.68] Let me pray. -[5536.68 --> 5540.80] Father in heaven, -[5541.00 --> 5542.06] we are the church, -[5542.24 --> 5543.56] your chosen people. -[5543.92 --> 5544.90] God, we are grateful -[5544.90 --> 5546.74] that you have built us up. -[5546.80 --> 5548.62] We are grateful that you have lived -[5548.62 --> 5550.94] a life that we all should have lived -[5550.94 --> 5552.64] and yet died in our place -[5552.64 --> 5554.28] to forgive us from sin. -[5554.36 --> 5555.50] We thank you for the cross, -[5555.76 --> 5556.76] for the empty tomb, -[5557.04 --> 5558.22] that you have been lifted up -[5558.22 --> 5560.40] to sit at the right hand of God. -[5560.84 --> 5561.08] And Lord, -[5561.20 --> 5562.48] in that story, -[5562.62 --> 5563.36] in that truth, -[5563.36 --> 5565.40] you have also built us up -[5565.40 --> 5567.12] and saved us. -[5568.66 --> 5569.18] And so God, -[5569.22 --> 5570.12] as your church -[5570.12 --> 5572.24] that you have chosen, -[5573.14 --> 5573.38] God, -[5573.42 --> 5574.40] we pray that this week -[5574.40 --> 5575.50] you will give us the courage, -[5575.88 --> 5576.50] the encouragement, -[5576.64 --> 5577.30] the conviction, -[5578.30 --> 5579.54] the willingness -[5579.54 --> 5582.52] to go and declare your praises. -[5583.52 --> 5584.02] God, -[5584.08 --> 5585.34] may your name be heard -[5585.34 --> 5586.86] throughout our community this week. -[5587.86 --> 5589.66] And we pray for your Holy Spirit -[5589.66 --> 5591.06] to guide our hearts -[5591.06 --> 5591.90] and our words -[5591.90 --> 5592.74] and more importantly, -[5592.74 --> 5594.18] stir in the hearts -[5594.18 --> 5594.80] of the people -[5594.80 --> 5595.82] whom we are speaking to. -[5599.68 --> 5600.24] And God, -[5600.30 --> 5601.68] may you transform people this week. -[5603.62 --> 5604.70] We pray this in your name. -[5605.02 --> 5605.20] Amen. -[5605.20 --> 5605.30] Amen. -[5619.18 --> 5620.18] Please join us. -[5622.74 --> 5635.96] My hope is built -[5635.96 --> 5639.42] on nothing less -[5639.42 --> 5642.68] than Jesus' blood -[5642.68 --> 5644.64] and righteousness. -[5644.64 --> 5649.08] I dare not trust -[5649.08 --> 5651.08] the sweetest frame -[5651.08 --> 5657.02] but only trust -[5657.02 --> 5660.46] in Jesus' name. -[5660.46 --> 5661.46] trust in Jesus' name. -[5661.46 --> 5668.90] I dare not trust -[5668.90 --> 5672.84] the sweetest frame -[5672.84 --> 5676.84] but only trust in Jesus' name. -[5676.84 --> 5677.84] trust in Jesus' name. -[5677.84 --> 5682.28] I dare not trust -[5682.28 --> 5685.22] the sweetest frame -[5685.22 --> 5689.10] but only trust -[5689.10 --> 5691.28] in Jesus' name. -[5691.28 --> 5697.28] Christ alone, -[5697.28 --> 5701.28] cornerstone, -[5701.28 --> 5702.28] Lord of all. -[5702.28 --> 5703.28] He is Lord, -[5703.28 --> 5705.66] Lord of all. -[5705.66 --> 5709.10] In the Savior's love -[5709.10 --> 5712.20] through the storm. -[5712.20 --> 5715.92] He is Lord, -[5715.92 --> 5720.80] Lord of all. -[5720.80 --> 5721.80] Lord of all. -[5721.80 --> 5722.80] Lord of all. -[5722.80 --> 5723.80] Lord of all. -[5723.80 --> 5724.80] Lord of all. -[5724.80 --> 5725.80] Lord of all. -[5725.80 --> 5727.80] When darkness seems -[5727.80 --> 5731.24] to hide His face, -[5731.24 --> 5738.30] I rest on His unchanging grace. -[5738.30 --> 5745.30] In every high and stormy gale, -[5745.30 --> 5751.30] My anchor holds within the veil. -[5751.30 --> 5758.30] My anchor holds within the veil. -[5758.30 --> 5764.30] Christ alone, -[5764.30 --> 5767.30] cornerstone, -[5767.30 --> 5770.30] Weak made strong -[5770.30 --> 5775.30] In the Savior's love -[5775.30 --> 5778.30] Through the storm. -[5778.30 --> 5781.30] He is Lord, -[5781.30 --> 5785.30] Lord of all. -[5785.30 --> 5786.30] He is Lord, -[5786.30 --> 5787.30] Lord of all. -[5787.30 --> 5800.30] He shall come -[5800.30 --> 5804.30] With trumpet sound, -[5804.30 --> 5808.30] O may I then -[5808.30 --> 5810.30] In Him be found, -[5810.30 --> 5817.30] In His righteousness alone. -[5817.30 --> 5823.30] All they stand before the throne. -[5823.30 --> 5825.30] Christ alone, -[5825.30 --> 5827.30] Cornerstone, -[5827.30 --> 5830.30] Weak made strong -[5830.30 --> 5843.30] In the Savior's love -[5843.30 --> 5847.30] Through the storm. -[5847.30 --> 5850.30] He is Lord, -[5850.30 --> 5855.30] Lord of all. -[5855.30 --> 5857.30] Lord of all. -[5857.30 --> 5860.30] Christ alone, -[5860.30 --> 5861.30] Cornerstone, -[5861.30 --> 5865.30] Weak made strong -[5865.30 --> 5868.30] In the Savior's love -[5868.30 --> 5871.30] In the Savior's love -[5871.30 --> 5873.30] Through the storm. -[5873.30 --> 5878.30] He is Lord, -[5878.30 --> 5880.30] Lord of all. -[5880.30 --> 5881.30] Lord of all. -[5881.30 --> 5885.30] Lord of all. -[5885.30 --> 5889.30] In the Savior's love -[5889.30 --> 5890.30] And so, -[5892.30 --> 5894.30] As we go out today, -[5894.30 --> 5895.30] 2-50 to my left, -[5895.30 --> 5897.30] and 1-1 or 2-1 or 2-1. -[5898.30 --> 5899.30] Nope. Yeah, there we are. -[5899.30 --> 5900.30] I'm gonna hold this. -[5900.30 --> 5902.30] As we go out into this week, -[5902.30 --> 5905.30] into the lives that God has placed you, -[5905.30 --> 5906.30] into the communities that He has placed you, -[5906.30 --> 5908.30] and to go declare His praises, -[5908.30 --> 5912.30] please go with God's parting blessing. -[5912.30 --> 5915.38] the Lord bless you and keep you. -[5915.98 --> 5918.54] The Lord make his face shine upon you -[5918.54 --> 5920.28] and be gracious to you. -[5920.94 --> 5923.60] The Lord turn his face toward you -[5923.60 --> 5926.20] and give you his peace. -[5927.20 --> 5929.72] And all of God's chosen people said, -[5929.72 --> 5931.00] Amen. -[5931.00 --> 5943.98] Should nothing of our efforts stand, -[5943.98 --> 5948.78] no legacy survive. -[5950.94 --> 5957.80] Unless the Lord does raise the house, -[5957.80 --> 5964.30] in vain its builders strive. -[5965.12 --> 5971.46] To you who boast tomorrow's gain, -[5971.84 --> 5977.88] tell me what is your life? -[5977.88 --> 5985.08] A mist that vanishes at dawn, -[5985.08 --> 5991.66] all glory be to Christ. -[5991.66 --> 5999.06] All glory be to Christ our King, -[5999.06 --> 6005.80] all glory be to Christ. -[6005.80 --> 6013.06] His rule and reign will ever sing, -[6013.06 --> 6019.82] all glory be to Christ. -[6019.82 --> 6027.08] His will be done, -[6027.08 --> 6030.34] His kingdom come, -[6030.34 --> 6035.72] on earth as is above. -[6037.02 --> 6043.92] Who is himself our daily bread? -[6043.92 --> 6050.50] Praise him, the Lord of love. -[6050.50 --> 6057.50] Let living water satisfy -[6057.50 --> 6063.82] the thirsty without price. -[6063.82 --> 6070.76] will take a cup of kindness yet, -[6070.76 --> 6077.14] all glory be to Christ. -[6077.14 --> 6084.10] All glory be to Christ our King, -[6084.34 --> 6090.40] all glory be to Christ. -[6090.40 --> 6097.16] His rule and reign will ever sing, -[6097.16 --> 6103.72] all glory be to Christ. -[6103.72 --> 6113.70] When on that day the great I am, -[6113.70 --> 6118.70] the faithful and the true. -[6118.70 --> 6125.70] The Lamb who was for sinners slain, -[6125.70 --> 6132.18] His making all things new. -[6132.18 --> 6138.94] Behold, our God shall live with us, -[6138.94 --> 6144.84] and be our steadfast light. -[6144.84 --> 6151.38] And we shall bear His people be, -[6151.38 --> 6158.38] all glory be to Christ. -[6158.38 --> 6164.58] All glory be to Christ our King, -[6164.58 --> 6171.02] all glory be to Christ. -[6171.02 --> 6178.02] His rule and reign will ever sing, -[6178.02 --> 6186.02] all glory be to Christ. -[6186.02 --> 6196.82] wholesaney work of hearing we be. -[6196.82 --> 6226.80] Thank you. -[6226.82 --> 6256.80] Thank you. -[6256.82 --> 6258.82] Thank you. diff --git a/Exiles in a Pagan Land - Living Examples October 24, 2021_summary.txt b/Exiles in a Pagan Land - Living Examples October 24, 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d3a27143f2b8312f11498701388faec1427bdfa8..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Exiles in a Pagan Land - Living Examples October 24, 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,99 +0,0 @@ -• Feeling God's presence throughout the day -• Struggling with sin and mistakes -• Seeking peace and rest in God's mercy -• Understanding how far God's forgiveness goes (the east from the west) -• Rejection of self and embracing God's truth and love -• Calling out to God for help and guidance -• Acknowledging God's relentless pursuit and fierce love -• Worship song with lyrics about rejoicing and praising God -• Announcements from church leaders - + Children's choir for Christmas program - + Night Shift Ministries dinner service volunteering opportunity - + Big Brother, Big Sister Christmas Hamper program - + 2020 spiritual disciplines event for youth - + Bible study in November for young adults -• Worship service opening with a greeting from God -• Reading of Psalm 96:1-9, exalting God above all gods -• Call to come and meet Jesus at the river of life -• Invitation to surrender cares and meet God in the river -• Discussion of Night Shift ministries serving the homeless -• Scripture reading from Matthew 25:35-40 about serving others -• Announcement of next week's special offering for Langley Emanuel budget -• The speaker recites and praises Jesus as the Messiah, Lord of all, and Blessed Redeemer. -• Kids Corner segment begins where the speaker thanks kids for creating memory verse videos last year and introduces a new memory verse from 1 Peter 4:8. -• The memory verse is practiced together, and the kids are encouraged to remember it for the week. -• The speaker explains the meaning of the word "multitude" and discusses how loving each other deeply can help forgive sins. -• Discussion about a person's identity -• Prayers and blessings for the congregation -• Announcements: chair of council, administrative changes, upcoming congregational meeting, budget review -• Congregational prayer led by Elder Ken -• Prayer requests for specific individuals and groups, including health issues, COVID-19, mental health, and those in need. -• Prayer for patience, peace, and wisdom -• Church responsibilities and serving others -• Importance of community outreach and service -• Request to be a light to the community -• Reading from 1 Peter 2:11 -• Discussion on engaging with preaching through Bible reading -• Personal anecdote about prioritizing church attendance over sports team practice -• What does it mean for Christians to be "weird" or different from the world? -• Being loved by God changes one's relationship with the world and relationships within the world -• As believers, we are foreigners and exiles in a world that doesn't know God -• Our life should reflect our love for what God loves and how He loves -• The time will come to be bold about being different from the world -• To be a Christian is to be uniquely defined by our relationship with God -• The importance of standing against cultural idolatry and being aware of one's identity as a Christian in the world. -• Recognizing that Christians are at war, specifically with sinful desires, and not just against external enemies or ideologies. -• Understanding that the war is first internal, with individuals struggling to overcome their own sin, before it manifests externally in the world. -• The contrast between past cultural contexts (e.g. Christian culture, Protestant/Catholic divide) and present-day context of a post-Christian, liberal society. -• Recognizing complacency or cynicism towards one's own sin, rather than actively fighting against it. -• Identity and soul -• Living a good life among non-believers (pagans) -• Changing one's behavior to align with Christian values -• Engaging with society of diverse worldviews and identities -• Being in the world, not hiding or running from it -• Model of living among pagans presented by Peter and Jeremiah -• Reminders of stories from the Bible, including Daniel and Esther -• Mention of Jeremiah's letter to exiles in Babylon recorded in Jeremiah 29 -• God's instructions to build houses, settle down, and seek prosperity -• Instructions to increase in number, find joy and fulfillment in work -• Living as beloved foreigners and exiles, seeking the well-being of the city -• Applying these principles to living among pagans and being a Christian in a non-Christian culture -• Persecution and hatred towards Christians is normal throughout history -• Christians are seen as abnormal for their sacrificial love of strangers and aliens, and their rejection of power and social norms -• A Roman historian, Tacitus, wrote about the early Christian church in a negative light, calling them "abominations" who upset the social order by changing traditional views on sex and gender -• Christians were also accused of practicing cannibalism due to their observance of the Lord's Supper -• The idea of eating Jesus' flesh and drinking his blood is considered unusual or abnormal by many people -• Early Christians were also seen as atheists for refusing to acknowledge the Roman pantheon of gods and worship the emperor -• Infant exposure in ancient Roman society -• Christians' opposition to the practice and their efforts to rescue infants -• Comparison between infant exposure and abortion as cultural practices -• The story of the shepherd of Hermes who was allegedly rescued from a garbage heap and became a Christian leader -• Christians accused of ruining society and the normal system -• Allegations that Christianity is a threat to traditional values and social order -• God as a tool for human prosperity -• Church as a community for achieving status and ease -• Living a good life among non-believers without compromising faith -• Abstaining from sinful desires and enduring hardship for the glory of God -• Knowing God and living for His glory is the greatest purpose and reason -• Traditional markers of success and power are secondary to knowing God -• The example of Christ in suffering and not retaliating, entrusting Himself to God's judgment -• The gospel truth is to see Jesus and understand that he lived the life we should have lived, died the death we deserve, and took our sin on himself. -• Christians are called to reflect this gospel truth in their relationships with others. -• Three key relationships mentioned where Christians can reflect the gospel truth: civic relationship (submitting to human authority), family of believers, and God's sovereignty. -• The passage in question refers to slavery, but it's not the same as chattel slavery -• Slavery in ancient Rome was a part of the ordinary economic life of the empire and people would sell themselves into slavery for various reasons -• The speaker draws parallels between the Roman concept of slavery and one's vocational life and relationship with their employer or boss -• Married life is also held up as an example, particularly for women submitting to their husbands in such a way that even unbelieving husbands might be won over by their behavior -• Being a living example of faith in one's civic, economic, and communal life -• Embracing the "weirdness" that comes with following Jesus and being part of a community of believers -• The importance of being captivated by God's glory and the gospel to live out one's faith authentically -• Seeking to serve God and be living examples through good deeds, even in the face of criticism or accusations from others -• Request to take someone's love and devotion -• Praise and worship of God, asking for his blessing and guidance -• Reminders not to be afraid, but to go in peace as examples of living faith -• Reflections on biblical figures (Elijah, Moses, Ezekiel) and their relevance today -• Call to serve the Lord and bring salvation through declaration of His word -• Repeated phrases and songs about salvation coming -• Jehovah is not mentioned as a God -• The second part of the transcript repeats phrases about salvation, similar to the first part -• The speaker thanks someone multiple times at the end of the transcript \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Exiles in a Pagan Land - Living Examples October 24, 2021_transcript.txt b/Exiles in a Pagan Land - Living Examples October 24, 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6f76fdd08a1d0ee5886b3869fd6e53da070bc839..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Exiles in a Pagan Land - Living Examples October 24, 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1722 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 9.58] I'm now in place -[9.58 --> 13.06] From when I rise up in the morning -[13.06 --> 16.00] Till I leave my head to rest -[16.54 --> 19.00] I feel you near me -[19.62 --> 23.94] You see me when I'm weary -[23.94 --> 29.98] Oh Lord, for all the worst and all the best -[30.00 --> 37.96] Oh Lord, for all the worst and all the best -[38.80 --> 38.98] Me -[38.98 --> 47.86] Oh, yeah -[68.98 --> 90.96] Here I am, Lord, and I'm drowning in your sea of forgetfulness. -[90.96 --> 95.08] The chains of yesterday surround me. -[95.64 --> 97.86] I yearn for peace and rest. -[97.86 --> 101.66] I don't want to end up where you found me -[101.66 --> 104.58] And it echoes in my mind -[104.58 --> 107.90] It keeps me awake tonight -[107.90 --> 114.44] I know you've cast my sin as far -[114.44 --> 117.62] The east is from the west -[117.62 --> 121.02] And I stand before you now -[121.02 --> 124.24] As though I've never sinned -[124.24 --> 128.76] But today I feel like I'm just one mistake away -[128.76 --> 132.44] From you leaving me this way -[132.44 --> 138.10] Jesus, can you show me just how far -[138.10 --> 140.78] The east is from the west -[140.78 --> 146.30] Cause I can't bear to see the man I've been -[146.30 --> 149.72] Rising up in me again -[149.72 --> 154.02] In the arms of your mercy I find red -[154.02 --> 158.54] Cause you know just how far the east is -[158.54 --> 160.12] From the west is from the west -[160.12 --> 163.06] One scarred hand to the other -[163.06 --> 180.04] I start the day the war begins -[180.04 --> 183.22] Endless reminding of my sin -[183.22 --> 184.80] Time and time again -[184.80 --> 185.54] Time and time again -[185.54 --> 187.86] Your truth is drowned out -[187.86 --> 189.80] By the storm I'm in -[189.80 --> 194.60] Today I feel like I'm just one mistake away -[194.60 --> 198.22] From you leaving me this way -[198.22 --> 201.74] Jesus, can you show me -[201.74 --> 206.26] Just how far the east is -[206.26 --> 207.26] Just how far the east is -[207.26 --> 208.32] From the west -[208.32 --> 212.06] Cause I can't bear to see the man I've been -[212.06 --> 215.38] Come rising up in me again -[215.38 --> 220.26] In the arms of your mercy I find red -[220.26 --> 224.78] Cause you know just how far the east is -[224.78 --> 225.78] From the west -[225.78 --> 228.78] One scarred hand to the other -[228.78 --> 232.78] I know you've washed me white -[232.78 --> 236.22] Turned my darkness into light -[236.22 --> 239.74] I need your peace to get me through -[239.74 --> 242.74] Get me through this night -[242.74 --> 245.86] I can't live by what I feel -[245.86 --> 248.74] But by the truth your word reveals -[248.74 --> 252.32] I'm not holding on to you -[252.32 --> 256.20] But you're holding on to me -[256.20 --> 263.96] You're holding on to me -[263.96 --> 270.92] Jesus, you know just how far the east is -[270.92 --> 272.64] From the west -[272.64 --> 277.86] I don't have to see the man I've been -[277.86 --> 281.26] Rising up in me again -[281.26 --> 285.58] In the arms of your mercy I find red -[285.58 --> 290.62] But you know just how far the east is -[290.62 --> 291.74] From the west -[291.74 --> 294.84] One scarred hand to the other -[294.84 --> 300.54] Just how far the east is -[300.54 --> 302.04] From the west -[302.04 --> 305.08] Just how far -[305.08 --> 308.38] One scarred hand to the other -[308.38 --> 312.70] One scarred hand to the other -[312.70 --> 315.20] Is it for us -[315.20 --> 317.48] Just how far -[317.48 --> 322.34] One scarred hand to the other -[322.34 --> 325.20] One scarred hand to the other -[325.20 --> 326.74] Let the other -[326.74 --> 326.78] universal -[326.78 --> 328.56] Understand why -[328.56 --> 329.02] One scarred hand to the other -[329.02 --> 330.72] Benefits does not see the light -[330.72 --> 331.46] The other -[331.46 --> 332.28] arrangement in made -[332.28 --> 333.42] And all these -[333.42 --> 336.10] dreaming of the 똑같 -[336.10 --> 337.30] Is it for you -[337.30 --> 337.96] He has the only -[337.96 --> 338.06] Deswnham -[338.06 --> 339.36] For us -[339.36 --> 340.38] That green -[340.38 --> 340.96] ın -[340.96 --> 341.18] который -[341.18 --> 341.58] Spiel -[341.58 --> 343.02] Yer -[343.02 --> 343.88] Jules -[343.88 --> 363.94] Before I call, before I ever cry -[363.94 --> 370.12] You answer me from where the thunder lies -[370.12 --> 375.88] I cannot run this hard untended to -[375.88 --> 382.02] With every step I collide with you -[382.02 --> 390.68] Like a tidal wave, crashing over me -[390.68 --> 394.34] Rushing into me, me here -[394.34 --> 399.20] Your love is fierce, like a hurricane -[399.20 --> 402.80] That I can't escape -[402.80 --> 406.06] Tearing through the atmosphere -[406.06 --> 409.34] Your love is fierce -[409.34 --> 415.46] You cannot fail, the only thing I've found -[415.46 --> 421.44] Is through it all, you never let me down -[421.44 --> 427.04] You won't hold back, relentless in pursuit -[427.04 --> 433.68] Every turn I come face to face with you -[433.68 --> 442.22] Like a tidal wave, crashing over me -[442.22 --> 445.94] Rushing into me, me here -[445.94 --> 450.78] Your love is fierce, like a hurricane -[450.78 --> 454.42] That I can't escape -[454.42 --> 458.02] Tearing through the atmosphere -[458.02 --> 459.02] Your love is fierce, like a hurricane -[459.02 --> 463.68] You chase me down -[463.68 --> 472.72] Please stand and sing with us -[472.72 --> 487.04] Come people of the risen King -[487.04 --> 491.40] Who delights to bring Him praise -[491.40 --> 496.00] Come all and tune your hearts to sing -[496.00 --> 499.86] To the morning star of grace -[499.86 --> 505.14] From the shifting shadows of the earth -[505.14 --> 509.36] We will lift our eyes to Him -[509.36 --> 514.14] Where steady arms of mercy reach -[514.14 --> 516.74] To gather children -[516.74 --> 521.14] Rejoice, rejoice -[521.14 --> 527.54] Rejoice, let every tongue rejoice -[527.54 --> 532.04] One heart, one voice -[532.04 --> 535.04] O Church of Christ, rejoice -[535.04 --> 537.04] O Church of Christ, rejoice -[537.04 --> 547.60] Come those whose joy is morning sun -[547.60 --> 552.08] And those weeping through the night -[552.08 --> 556.70] Come those who tell of battles won -[556.70 --> 560.98] And those struggling in the fight -[560.98 --> 565.98] For His perfect love will never change -[565.98 --> 570.18] And His mercies never cease -[570.18 --> 575.00] But follow us through all our days -[575.00 --> 579.18] With a certain hope of peace -[579.18 --> 583.18] Rejoice, rejoice -[583.18 --> 588.42] Let every tongue rejoice -[588.42 --> 593.02] One heart, one voice -[593.02 --> 598.02] O Church of Christ, rejoice -[598.02 --> 600.02] O Church of Christ, rejoice -[600.02 --> 605.02] Lord, one voice -[605.02 --> 606.02] O Church of Christ, rejoice -[606.02 --> 609.02] The hope from every land -[609.02 --> 613.02] And women of the faith -[613.02 --> 618.02] From those with poor or empty hands -[618.02 --> 622.02] And the riches of His grace -[622.02 --> 627.22] Over all the world His people sing -[627.22 --> 631.02] Shore to shore we hear them call -[631.02 --> 636.02] The truth that cries through every age -[636.02 --> 640.02] Our God is all in all -[640.02 --> 644.02] Rejoice, rejoice -[644.02 --> 649.02] Let every tongue rejoice -[649.02 --> 654.02] One heart, one voice -[654.02 --> 655.02] O Church of Christ, rejoice -[655.02 --> 659.02] O Church of Christ, rejoice -[659.02 --> 661.02] Rejoice, rejoice -[661.02 --> 663.02] Rejoice, rejoice -[663.02 --> 667.02] Let every tongue rejoice -[667.02 --> 672.02] One heart, one voice -[672.02 --> 676.02] O Church of Christ, rejoice -[676.02 --> 678.02] O Church of Christ, rejoice -[678.02 --> 681.02] O Church of Christ, rejoice -[681.02 --> 683.02] Prayer -[685.02 --> 696.02] Before them -[696.02 --> 697.00] When the church Cyril -[697.00 --> 702.60] name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors here, and it's my privilege this morning, along with these -[702.60 --> 709.96] others, to lead you in worship together. Before we continue in our worship, there's a couple -[709.96 --> 714.18] announcements we want to make, and so I'm going to invite Josh to come up to the front so he can be -[714.18 --> 725.74] ready. First, we are pulling together a children's choir to complement the choir that will be singing -[725.74 --> 734.10] for us this Christmas in a Christmas program, and so Mark DeGeis, who is directing that choir, is looking -[734.10 --> 741.88] for kids in this sort of 7 to 14 year old age bracket. We have four who have already signed up -[741.88 --> 749.50] and are participating. Mark would love to see eight more, and so if you're able or interested, kids, if -[749.50 --> 753.70] this is something you might be interested in doing, talk to your parents. You can also talk to Mark. -[753.70 --> 760.64] He is around here somewhere, or will be around here somewhere shortly, and so you can grab him, -[760.76 --> 768.02] or grab me after, and I will direct you to him. The first practice for that children's choir will be -[768.02 --> 774.02] on November 6th, immediately after church, and so practices are on Sunday, so you're here already, -[774.02 --> 779.34] and you can get plugged in in that way. Also, just a couple things I want to draw your attention to -[779.34 --> 786.92] from the e-bulletin that gets mailed out each week. Night Shift Ministries has begun their dinner -[786.92 --> 797.68] service, and we, Emanuel Church, are committed to once a month volunteering and populating that and -[797.68 --> 804.48] making that happen, and so we're looking for groups of five or six people. This is great if you're in a -[804.48 --> 811.72] care group for the first Wednesday of every second month. Did you track that? If not, it's in the e-bulletin. -[812.52 --> 819.72] You'll be required from about 645 to about 815. If you're interested, you can connect with myself, -[819.72 --> 826.60] or Susan Stam is coordinating that, so get connected with her. Also, just wanted to draw your attention to -[826.60 --> 832.54] the Big Brother, Big Sister Christmas Hamper program that's happening again this year. It's Christmas -[832.54 --> 837.66] gifts for families in need. You can buy for a small family or for a large family. Again, you can do this -[837.66 --> 842.88] in your care group or other community group, and for that, you can connect with Mike Prins as he's -[842.88 --> 851.06] running that. And then finally for me, tonight, just a reminder to the youth, there is 2020 that's -[851.06 --> 856.36] happening here. It's your first one on spiritual disciplines, and that's going to run from 7 to 830. -[856.62 --> 859.44] And then Josh has one thing, too. Use that mic there. -[863.34 --> 870.24] Hello? Okay. Awesome. Thank you, everyone, for volunteering for the care packages for the -[870.24 --> 875.20] students abroad. We got all the volunteers we needed, so that's an awesome success. Thanks, everybody. -[875.20 --> 881.12] Also, there is a Bible study in November starting for young adults. If you want to be involved in -[881.12 --> 887.38] that, get the details, we need to figure out what day we want to do it on. Please come see me over -[887.38 --> 894.00] the side over there after church. Thank you. Excellent. I think Josh was looking for a round -[894.00 --> 902.12] of applause there. Does that what it felt like to you? Yeah, all right. We gather together as a church -[902.12 --> 910.36] family to worship our God, primarily because God calls us to this place, and he carries us into his -[910.36 --> 916.46] presence. And so if you drove here this morning, if you walked here this morning, the greater spiritual -[916.46 --> 922.02] truth is that God carried you here this morning. God brought you here this morning, and we mark his -[922.02 --> 929.58] presence by receiving his greeting. And so receive the greeting of our God as we come to worship him. -[929.58 --> 937.78] grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, -[938.16 --> 944.84] and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Let's worship God together. -[947.78 --> 956.42] Oh, sing to the Lord a new song. Sing to the Lord all the earth. Sing to the Lord, bless his name. -[956.42 --> 965.52] Tell of his salvation from day to day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the -[965.52 --> 974.24] peoples. For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised. For he is to be feared above all gods. -[974.24 --> 993.18] For thou, O Lord, our God above all gods. -[993.18 --> 1023.16] Thou art exalted, far above all gods. Thou art exalted, far above all gods. -[1023.16 --> 1028.34] I exalted, far above all gods. I exalted, far above all gods. I exalted, far above all gods. I exalted, far above all gods. sing to the Lord our peł logrin open to day. -[1028.34 --> 1038.16] I exalted, far above all gods. I exalted, far above all gods. I exalted, far above all gods. I exalted. Not too sad. It is the Lord, -[1042.16 --> 1043.16] I exalted Om laurens. The Lord of heights. I exalted, far above all gods. I out mercy on God, Lord ofiques on earth. -[1043.16 --> 1061.46] I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee, O Lord. -[1061.46 --> 1071.08] For Thou, O Lord, art my abide of all the earth. -[1071.08 --> 1080.14] Thou art exalted, far above all Christ. -[1080.76 --> 1090.40] For Thou, O Lord, art my abide of all the earth. -[1090.40 --> 1098.84] Thou art exalted, far above all Christ. -[1098.84 --> 1117.04] I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee, O Lord. -[1117.04 --> 1135.64] I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee, O Lord. -[1135.64 --> 1156.24] Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb through the middle of the street of the city. -[1156.24 --> 1186.24] -[1186.24 --> 1187.68] Amen. -[1189.14 --> 1190.62] Come quickly, Lord Jesus. -[1190.62 --> 1217.62] To the river I am going, bringing sins I cannot bear. -[1217.62 --> 1222.62] Come and cleanse me. -[1222.62 --> 1226.62] Come forgive me. -[1226.62 --> 1232.62] Lord, I need to meet you there. -[1232.62 --> 1247.02] In these waters, healing mercy, close with freedom from this land. -[1247.02 --> 1254.02] I am going to that river. -[1254.02 --> 1255.02] I am going to that river. -[1255.02 --> 1261.02] Lord, I need to meet you there. -[1261.02 --> 1276.02] Precious Jesus, I am ready to surrender every care. -[1276.02 --> 1280.02] Take my hand now. -[1280.02 --> 1281.02] Take my hand now. -[1281.02 --> 1283.02] Lead me closer. -[1283.02 --> 1291.02] Lord, I need to meet you there. -[1291.02 --> 1298.02] Come and join us in the river. -[1298.02 --> 1303.02] Come find life beyond comfort. -[1303.02 --> 1310.02] Come and join us in the river. -[1310.02 --> 1316.02] Come find life beyond comfort. -[1316.02 --> 1318.02] Come and join us in the river. -[1318.02 --> 1319.02] Come is joy. -[1319.02 --> 1323.02] God, come and join us in the river. -[1323.02 --> 1324.02] With wisdom and command the river affect dead us in the river in the states. -[1324.02 --> 1332.58] Jesus long to meet you there -[1332.58 --> 1338.78] He is calling, He is waiting -[1338.78 --> 1346.36] Jesus long to meet you there -[1346.36 --> 1352.70] Precious Jesus, I am ready -[1352.70 --> 1359.30] To surrender every care -[1359.30 --> 1366.76] Take my hand now, lead me closer -[1366.76 --> 1373.28] Lord, I need to meet you there -[1373.28 --> 1380.70] Take my hand now, lead me closer -[1380.70 --> 1387.30] Lord, I need to meet you there -[1387.30 --> 1393.90] Good morning -[1393.90 --> 1415.78] Good morning -[1415.78 --> 1429.94] Today's offerings are for the church budget and ministries -[1429.94 --> 1432.38] And for night shift ministries -[1432.38 --> 1438.98] Located in Surrey -[1438.98 --> 1447.66] They serve the homeless and disadvantaged by providing crisis counselling, meals, clothing and prayer -[1447.66 --> 1456.08] Night shift also offers support to those that desire to leave the addictive cycle of alcohol and drugs -[1456.08 --> 1463.56] More than 2500 volunteers who give their time and energy and resources to serve -[1463.56 --> 1472.16] Matthew chapter 25 verse 35, 36 and 40 -[1472.16 --> 1474.44] He says -[1474.44 --> 1478.16] For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat -[1478.76 --> 1482.68] I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink -[1482.68 --> 1486.88] I was a stranger and you invited me in -[1486.88 --> 1490.24] I needed clothes and you clothed me -[1490.24 --> 1494.84] I was in prison and you came to visit me -[1494.84 --> 1497.64] Truly, I tell you, whatever you did -[1497.64 --> 1501.26] For one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine -[1501.26 --> 1502.72] You did for me -[1502.72 --> 1508.34] Next week's special offering is for the Langley Emanuel budget -[1508.34 --> 1512.86] Give what the Lord has put in your heart -[1512.86 --> 1515.38] Ian -[1515.38 --> 1532.66] Alright, go from this -[1532.66 --> 1534.66] Amen. -[1562.66 --> 1564.66] Amen. -[1592.66 --> 1594.66] Amen. -[1622.66 --> 1624.66] Amen. -[1652.66 --> 1654.66] Amen. -[1654.66 --> 1656.66] Amen. -[1656.66 --> 1660.66] Jesus, Messiah. -[1660.66 --> 1666.66] Name above all names. -[1666.66 --> 1678.66] Blessed Redeemer, Emmanuel. -[1678.66 --> 1684.66] The rescue for sinners. -[1684.66 --> 1690.66] The rest of our heaven. -[1690.66 --> 1696.66] Jesus, Messiah. -[1696.66 --> 1702.66] Lord of all. -[1702.66 --> 1708.66] All our hope is in you. -[1708.66 --> 1714.66] All our hope is in you. -[1714.66 --> 1722.66] All the glory to you, God. -[1722.66 --> 1728.66] The light of the world. -[1728.66 --> 1734.66] Jesus, Messiah. -[1734.66 --> 1740.66] Name above all names. -[1740.66 --> 1750.66] Blessed Redeemer, Emmanuel. -[1750.66 --> 1756.66] The rescue for sinners. -[1756.66 --> 1760.66] The ransom from heaven. -[1760.66 --> 1766.66] Jesus, Messiah. -[1766.66 --> 1768.66] Lord of all. -[1768.66 --> 1770.66] Lord of all. -[1770.66 --> 1772.66] Jesus, Messiah. -[1772.66 --> 1774.66] Lord of all. -[1774.66 --> 1776.66] Jesus, Messiah. -[1776.66 --> 1778.66] Lord of all. -[1778.66 --> 1780.66] I invite you to be seated. -[1780.66 --> 1796.66] And, oh, I'm as loud as Kevin now. -[1796.66 --> 1808.66] Kids, age three, up to grade four, anyone who feels like they would like to come up, you're welcome to come join me at the front here for Kids Corner. -[1808.66 --> 1822.66] So we're going to start Kids Corner today by talking about our memory verses. -[1822.66 --> 1826.66] And I just realized that I need to say kind of a big thank you to you guys. -[1826.66 --> 1832.66] If you remember back last year, we had a lot of church maybe at your house where you're watching it on TV. -[1832.66 --> 1840.66] And some of us, me and Mr. Eric and Mr. Mike and Pastor Kevin, were doing Kids Corner and we were doing all these different memory verses. -[1840.66 --> 1843.66] And it was really hard for us to do the actions and remember them. -[1843.66 --> 1844.66] So we needed your help. -[1844.66 --> 1848.66] And lots of you guys made videos of the memory verses. -[1848.66 --> 1850.66] And you might have seen each other during church. -[1850.66 --> 1858.66] So I just wanted to thank you guys for doing that, for participating and helping us all, the whole church, learn those verses together. -[1858.66 --> 1862.66] And then I just wanted to remind you that we actually still have memory verses. -[1862.66 --> 1870.66] Our new coordinators here have picked one from the book of 1 Peter for this month because in the church here, we've been doing a sermon series on that. -[1870.66 --> 1873.66] So your moms and dads have been learning about 1 Peter. -[1873.66 --> 1877.66] So we're going to just practice the memory verse today all together. -[1877.66 --> 1878.66] Everybody here. -[1878.66 --> 1880.66] We're going to just repeat it. -[1880.66 --> 1883.66] I don't have any actions, but we'll repeat it. -[1883.66 --> 1887.66] I'll say it and then you guys can repeat it and we'll do that a couple times so it gets in our head. -[1887.66 --> 1890.66] And then hopefully you'll remember it for the week to come. -[1890.66 --> 1891.66] So it goes like this. -[1891.66 --> 1896.66] So I'll say the first couple words and then when I pause, you guys repeat it. -[1896.66 --> 1897.66] Can you guys do that? -[1897.66 --> 1899.66] Can you guys do that? -[1899.66 --> 1901.66] Okay, we'll see. -[1901.66 --> 1902.66] The kids seem confident. -[1902.66 --> 1904.66] Everyone else, I'm not quite sure. -[1904.66 --> 1922.66] So above all, love each other deeply because love covers over a multitude of sins. -[1922.66 --> 1927.66] 1 Peter 4 verse 8. -[1927.66 --> 1928.66] All right. -[1928.66 --> 1930.66] I think we need to practice it one more time. -[1930.66 --> 1933.66] I'm going to say a few more words at a time this time. -[1933.66 --> 1934.66] I think you can do it. -[1934.66 --> 1946.66] Above all, love each other deeply because love covers over a multitude of sins. -[1946.66 --> 1951.66] 1 Peter 4 verse 8. -[1951.66 --> 1952.66] Nice work. -[1952.66 --> 1953.66] All right. -[1953.66 --> 1961.66] So just a reminder for everybody that there are some of these cards in the foyer at the children's worship time booth. -[1961.66 --> 1967.66] If that helps your family to remember this on your fridge or somewhere in your house, you can grab one. -[1967.66 --> 1972.66] And kids, if you remember it next week at church, one of the coordinators will be coming around. -[1972.66 --> 1975.66] And I think there are some prizes if you remember this. -[1975.66 --> 1979.66] I have one more question actually about this. -[1979.66 --> 1982.66] It's about one of the words, the word multitude. -[1982.66 --> 1985.66] Do you guys here up front know what a multitude is? -[1985.66 --> 1987.66] How many people know what a multitude is? -[1987.66 --> 1989.66] Put up your hand if you know what that means. -[1990.66 --> 1992.66] Nora, what does it mean? -[1992.66 --> 1994.66] A big group, a whole bunch. -[1994.66 --> 1999.66] So a multitude of sins is a little bit of sin or a lot of sin? -[1999.66 --> 2000.66] A lot. -[2000.66 --> 2002.66] So what does this verse mean? -[2002.66 --> 2009.66] It means that when we love each other, when we love each other and our families and our friends and our church and our community, -[2009.66 --> 2013.66] that we will be forgiving of people who do sins. -[2013.66 --> 2015.66] And how many of us sin? -[2016.66 --> 2017.66] All. -[2017.66 --> 2018.66] Exactly. -[2018.66 --> 2019.66] All of us. -[2019.66 --> 2022.66] So it's important to love each other and not just a little bit, deeply it says. -[2022.66 --> 2028.66] So in our children's worship time today, we're going to talk about a multitude as well, but not about a multitude of sins. -[2028.66 --> 2035.66] It's about a man who had a promise that he would have a multitude of descendants or family members. -[2035.66 --> 2037.66] Does anyone know who that guy is? -[2037.66 --> 2038.66] Haley, who do you think? -[2038.66 --> 2039.66] Noah. -[2040.66 --> 2042.66] Does anyone have any other guesses? -[2042.66 --> 2043.66] Zoe, what do you think? -[2044.66 --> 2045.66] Jesus? -[2045.66 --> 2047.66] All people in the Bible. -[2047.66 --> 2050.66] It starts with the letter A. -[2051.66 --> 2052.66] Malachi? -[2052.66 --> 2053.66] Abraham. -[2053.66 --> 2054.66] Abraham. -[2054.66 --> 2055.66] Thanks. -[2055.66 --> 2057.66] The winters, you got it. -[2057.66 --> 2065.66] We're going to learn about Abraham and God had a promise for him that he would have so many family members, descendants, as many as the stars in the sky. -[2065.66 --> 2069.66] So we'll pray together and then we'll stand up after for the blessing. -[2070.66 --> 2076.66] Lord Jesus, we thank you for your word and that we can remember it and that we can learn from it. -[2076.66 --> 2084.66] And we pray that you would give us the strength to love each other deeply and to be forgiving in hard times and in easy times, God. -[2084.66 --> 2089.66] Thank you for this chance to gather together and learn more about you. -[2090.66 --> 2091.66] In Jesus name, amen. -[2092.66 --> 2093.66] Alright, let's all stand up. -[2095.66 --> 2098.66] And, yep, kids, we're going to face everyone else. -[2114.66 --> 2127.66] As the children leave the sanctuary here, I've got a couple announcements. -[2127.66 --> 2130.66] I'm not here doing the prayer, but I've got a couple announcements. -[2131.66 --> 2139.66] If most of you have not known or read in the bulletin, I have been selected by my peers to be chair of council. -[2139.66 --> 2143.66] So you'll see me up here. We're doing some announcements throughout the year. -[2144.66 --> 2148.66] And with that, I have some announcements today for you all. -[2149.66 --> 2156.66] So first thing I'd like to address is we had to do a little bit of a shift with our admin council this term. -[2157.66 --> 2158.66] We thought we'd let you guys know. -[2159.66 --> 2164.66] Pim shown that this time in his life is not a good time to take on the responsibilities that came with being the clerk. -[2164.66 --> 2173.66] So we've decided to just take care of that internally with some other people in council stepped up to fill in some of the responsibilities that come with that. -[2174.66 --> 2176.66] So that's what we're going to do. -[2177.66 --> 2180.66] And we should be, that should all work out fine. -[2180.66 --> 2188.66] So the next thing that comes along with that is that we're going to have a congregational meeting coming up in the end of November. -[2188.66 --> 2189.66] So we'd like you everyone to come there. -[2190.66 --> 2195.66] This is a good opportunity for everybody to have a say and an input in how this church is where we're going and where we're heading. -[2196.66 --> 2199.66] So we appreciate and would like to have everybody come out for that. -[2199.66 --> 2208.66] And in the next couple of weeks you should be getting some correspondence in your mailbox about the budget and all those kind of things have to get passed at the next meeting. -[2209.66 --> 2210.66] So thank you. -[2210.66 --> 2225.66] Good morning. -[2226.66 --> 2235.66] I am Ken and I am an elder here at Emmanuel and I am going to lead you in congregational prayer this morning. -[2235.66 --> 2239.66] Let's pray. -[2240.66 --> 2257.66] Our Father who is in heaven, what a comfort to know that you are our Father, that you are present in our lives every day, that we may come to you week after week in prayer and in praise of your holy name. -[2257.66 --> 2266.66] Father, your amazing design on this world is once again right in front of us as we see the leaves changing and making beautiful colors showing your greatness. -[2267.66 --> 2277.66] It is also a sure knowledge that in five or six months or so the leaves will once again begin to grow as you have designed it that way and showing your renewing power. -[2277.66 --> 2288.66] Lord, as we come to you this morning, we come to you because it is good to stop, to stop dealing with what we sometimes think is important. -[2289.66 --> 2295.66] We keep our lives so busy with work, family, friends, hobbies and many self-serving things. -[2295.66 --> 2302.66] We need to come here to slow down, stop and acknowledge you as the sovereign Lord and provider of all things. -[2303.66 --> 2308.66] We need to acknowledge that we do not keep our lives busy with your good work as much as we should. -[2309.66 --> 2316.66] And Lord, forgive us for our sins and help us to focus our lives on you and love for others instead of love for ourselves. -[2316.66 --> 2324.66] Father, we pray for Steve, Karen and their children as they continue to grieve the passing of Karen's dad. -[2325.66 --> 2329.66] Father, we pray that you will give them peace and assurance during this time. -[2330.66 --> 2338.66] We continue to hold up to you Willie, Bob, Juanita and Janet as they continue to struggle with various health issues. -[2339.66 --> 2344.66] Father, be near to each one and grant that they may recover to full health. -[2344.66 --> 2353.66] We pray for all those at Manoa Manor as many are suffering from COVID there and a number of residents have passed away recently. -[2354.66 --> 2358.66] We pray for comfort for those families and ask for an end to this outbreak. -[2359.66 --> 2363.66] Father, we pray for all those suffering from COVID at this time. -[2364.66 --> 2369.66] Even though in some ways things are getting better, COVID is still here and it is still affecting so many people. -[2369.66 --> 2380.66] Be with our healthcare system, the workers as they deal with overloaded ICUs and hospitals, as well as the trauma involved in seeing so many suffering people. -[2381.66 --> 2394.66] Father, as the amount of information out there continues to grow and people try to decipher what is truth and what is not, give wisdom, give patience and give us servant hearts to deal with each other in love. -[2394.66 --> 2397.66] Watch over those who are shut in and unable to get around. -[2398.66 --> 2402.66] Father, this has also caused an increase in mental health issues. -[2403.66 --> 2411.66] And Father, the suffering of mental health is one that can take the strongest of people and bring them to their knees in anguish. -[2411.66 --> 2416.66] Father, be their light, their comfort and their strength. -[2417.66 --> 2420.66] We also pray for our pastor and his family. -[2421.66 --> 2428.66] They have been displaced from their home and are again moving into another temporary place while repairs to their house will hopefully get underway soon. -[2429.66 --> 2436.66] Give them patience, peace and wisdom as they deal with all of this along with maintaining their regular day-to-day responsibilities. -[2436.66 --> 2441.66] Continue to watch over the good work of your church here in this place. -[2442.66 --> 2445.66] There are many groups, committees, care groups, leadership groups. -[2446.66 --> 2453.66] All of these are designed to offer opportunity for your people to serve you and honor you by loving your church and the people in it. -[2454.66 --> 2457.66] It can also provide ways to reach the people in our community. -[2457.66 --> 2466.66] And Lord, may we be a light to all people here in Murrayville to point people to you, to a life of joy in you. -[2467.66 --> 2471.66] Grant us all a heart of learning and hearing as your servant Chris brings us your word. -[2472.66 --> 2474.66] May we all rest in you in this day. -[2474.66 --> 2475.66] In Jesus name we pray. -[2475.66 --> 2476.66] Amen. -[2487.66 --> 2510.66] We're going to continue in our series in the book of 1 Peter this morning. -[2510.66 --> 2515.66] And in just a moment I'm going to read with you from 1 Peter 2. -[2516.66 --> 2517.66] We're going to start at verse 11. -[2517.66 --> 2525.66] So if you'd like you can grab a Bible or turn your phone Bible app on and get that ready to go. -[2525.66 --> 2527.66] We will read that together shortly. -[2527.66 --> 2530.66] It will also be on the screen behind me. -[2531.66 --> 2534.66] For what it's worth, this is a bit of an aside. -[2534.66 --> 2547.66] I really do think it's best, I think the best way to engage in the preaching and that opportunity is to have a Bible. -[2547.66 --> 2549.66] Whether it's on your phone or in your hands. -[2549.66 --> 2552.66] Because we will refer back and go around and jump around. -[2552.66 --> 2559.66] And it seems to me that there's just something helpful about having that concretely in your hands. -[2559.66 --> 2565.66] And so maybe even the best way to do that is to bring your own personal Bible from home. -[2565.66 --> 2567.66] Your devotional Bible. -[2567.66 --> 2572.66] And then you can write all over it and highlight all over it and color code it and make it look all beautiful and the like. -[2572.66 --> 2577.66] And then when I get boring, because inevitably that will happen, you have a place where you can draw a picture. -[2577.66 --> 2583.66] And continue at least looking like you're participating in that way. -[2583.66 --> 2586.66] Forgive me for that. -[2586.66 --> 2597.66] Some of you know, but when I was a kid, I grew up in a great Christian home with really loving parents. -[2597.66 --> 2599.66] And I say that not just because my parents are here. -[2599.66 --> 2601.66] Hi, Mom and Dad. -[2601.66 --> 2604.66] I say that because it's true. -[2604.66 --> 2610.66] We were part of a church that, and some of you understand this, right? -[2610.66 --> 2611.66] You get this. -[2611.66 --> 2613.66] That had two services. -[2613.66 --> 2628.66] And we went every week to morning church and afternoon church at 4 o'clock in the winters and then 6 o'clock or 7 o'clock or whatever o'clock in the summertime. -[2628.66 --> 2632.66] Because part of our church was in a farming community, and so you know what it is. -[2632.66 --> 2637.66] You adjust for milking schedules and make hay when the sun shines and all of that. -[2637.66 --> 2643.66] Anyway, I grew up in a pretty traditional and conservative church community. -[2643.66 --> 2650.66] What that meant was we went to church twice on Sunday and nothing got in the way of that. -[2650.66 --> 2657.66] I didn't understand what that meant as a kid until I brushed up to a conflict. -[2657.66 --> 2660.66] And so, when I was younger, I played baseball. -[2660.66 --> 2665.66] And I played a lot of baseball, and I really enjoyed it, and it was fun. -[2665.66 --> 2676.66] And one year, I was 12 or 13 or something, and I managed to make the city travel team for baseball. -[2676.66 --> 2679.66] And I was super excited. -[2679.66 --> 2686.66] Not the least of which because when I went to the tryouts, the final tryout, I rode my bike there, and I was running late, so I was going too fast. -[2686.66 --> 2691.66] And I crashed my bike, and I skidded across the ground, and I had road rash on my hands and knees. -[2691.66 --> 2694.66] But still, I showed up and I made that team. -[2694.66 --> 2697.66] I was proud of my effort and the ability. -[2697.66 --> 2705.66] And so, a couple days later, the coach calls, and he says, Chris, I want you to know you've made the team. -[2705.66 --> 2706.66] We want you to join us. -[2706.66 --> 2709.66] Our first practice is Sunday morning. -[2709.66 --> 2714.66] I said, Coach, you're going to have to wait a second. -[2714.66 --> 2716.66] Mom? -[2716.66 --> 2719.66] Can we talk? -[2719.66 --> 2727.66] Well, it turns out I couldn't play on that team because we had to prioritize going to church. -[2727.66 --> 2732.66] Now, as a 12 or 13-year-old, I didn't get that at all. -[2732.66 --> 2738.66] And I know that there are some of you here this morning who make different decisions than that for your family. -[2738.66 --> 2741.66] In our family, that was the decision that was made. -[2741.66 --> 2747.66] Now, I would note that after I was a teenager and moved out of the house, my parents stopped going to the second service. -[2747.66 --> 2751.66] So, interesting. -[2754.66 --> 2758.66] I had to talk to the coach and tell him that I couldn't play. -[2758.66 --> 2763.66] And that we went to church on Sunday mornings. -[2763.66 --> 2776.66] And whether or not this was actually the case or if this was just what I heard because I was receiving and processing this information through my own lens of lack of understanding, -[2776.66 --> 2783.66] but I heard in my coach's voice disappointment because he didn't get it. -[2783.66 --> 2784.66] What do you mean you have church? -[2784.66 --> 2786.66] You can go next week. -[2786.66 --> 2788.66] Or in my family, you could go in the afternoon. -[2788.66 --> 2790.66] You could still come in the morning. -[2794.66 --> 2804.66] It was, for me, but for people on the outside looking in, weird that we made those kinds of decisions as Christians. -[2808.66 --> 2813.66] Now, we don't need to have a big conversation about Sabbatarianism and legalism and things like that. -[2813.66 --> 2825.66] But what I want you to hear as we come into this text from 1 Peter is what does it mean to be weird as Christians to the world around us? -[2825.66 --> 2840.66] What does it mean for the types of things that we do, the sorts of decisions we make, the things that we participate in to look strange and foreign and alien, people who just can't get it? -[2840.66 --> 2843.66] With that in mind, let's look at this text. -[2843.66 --> 2849.66] 1 Peter 2, starting at verse 11. -[2849.66 --> 2863.66] Dear friends, I urge you as foreigners and exiles to abstain from sinful desires which wage war against your soul. -[2863.66 --> 2875.66] Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us. -[2875.66 --> 2891.66] Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every human authority, whether to the emperor as the supreme authority, or to governors who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. -[2891.66 --> 2898.66] For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. -[2898.66 --> 2902.66] Live as free people. -[2902.66 --> 2906.66] But do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil. -[2906.66 --> 2910.66] Live as God's slaves. -[2910.66 --> 2913.66] Show proper respect to everyone. -[2913.66 --> 2915.66] Love the family of believers. -[2915.66 --> 2916.66] Fear God. -[2916.66 --> 2918.66] Honor the emperor. -[2918.66 --> 2919.66] The emperor. -[2919.66 --> 2921.66] This is the word of the Lord. -[2921.66 --> 2947.66] Now, for those of you who have been following along in this series, either here in person or online, you will recall that we have available for you and for your personal study or your care group study, a bit of a Bible study that doesn't necessarily parallel this work because you can move through it at different paces, but allows you to dig deep into the processing of this work. -[2947.66 --> 2954.66] And so, if you haven't heard about that, or if you would like a copy of this, you can talk to me after and we'll get that situated. -[2954.66 --> 2964.66] Now, Peter starts this section of his letter by saying, dear friends. -[2964.66 --> 2989.66] And now, while it is likely true that the recipients of this letter are dear friends of Peter or that he considers them as such, what I want you to hear first and foremost is that the word that's used there, this letter was originally written in Greek, and the Greek word that is used there is agapetoi, which means literally beloved. -[2989.66 --> 2990.66] Beloved. -[2991.56 --> 2992.20] Beloved. -[2992.62 --> 2999.58] And so, this is more than Friends of Peter, this is ultimately about being beloved. -[3000.26 --> 3001.76] But beloved by whom? -[3003.58 --> 3008.20] Because ultimately, this is about being beloved or loved of God. -[3009.18 --> 3015.42] And Peter has been spending time reminding us that we are chosen by God and precious to Him. -[3015.42 --> 3020.50] Pastor Kevin looked at this last week for us, that we are his special possession. -[3021.64 --> 3024.28] This is the ground of our identity. -[3024.86 --> 3032.62] This is the firm foundation of which Jesus is the cornerstone for your life and for yourself. -[3033.46 --> 3039.66] As a chosen people, by grace through faith, you are loved of God. -[3039.66 --> 3049.22] Or, to put it another way, you are loved of God, and so, by grace through faith, he has chosen you. -[3050.10 --> 3056.18] He has made you for his own, adopted you as heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ. -[3056.34 --> 3064.04] You are lavishly loved of the Father, and he has called you a son or a daughter. -[3064.04 --> 3068.72] And you have received this from him. -[3069.66 --> 3078.14] And because you are beloved of him, you also become more in him. -[3079.96 --> 3087.10] Peter writes, beloved, I urge you as foreigners and exiles. -[3088.10 --> 3090.98] This is all identity language, right? -[3091.12 --> 3094.68] Beloved, foreigners, and exiles. -[3094.68 --> 3107.02] Now, the older translation of the NIV that maybe you have or that you read from, the older one than the one we are currently using anyway, there says strangers and aliens. -[3108.10 --> 3110.06] Now, you might read the ESV. -[3110.20 --> 3111.64] That's another translation that I like. -[3111.70 --> 3114.16] It says sojourners and exiles. -[3114.16 --> 3123.10] Or maybe you're old enough or of a particular generation to remember the King James Version that says strangers and pilgrims. -[3124.02 --> 3124.88] But here's the point, right? -[3124.96 --> 3132.20] Being loved of God, beloved of God, being his beloved puts you in a relationship with God. -[3132.20 --> 3142.04] And being in a relationship with God changes your relationship to the world and changes your relationships in the world. -[3143.08 --> 3148.58] No longer do you feel at home here, completely comfortable and settled. -[3148.58 --> 3153.22] Instead, Peter says, you are a foreigner. -[3153.62 --> 3154.90] You are an exile. -[3155.70 --> 3162.50] Because you are loved of God, you love what he loves and you love the way that he loves. -[3163.82 --> 3169.86] And when you do that, that will make you a stranger and an alien in the world. -[3169.86 --> 3182.02] Because you are loved by God, because you love what he loves and you love the way that he loves, you will be strangers and aliens, foreigners and exiles in a world that doesn't know him. -[3185.00 --> 3194.94] I want to be bold with you this morning because the time is coming and has now come when you too will have to be bold about it. -[3194.94 --> 3209.30] Because if your life isn't foreign, if your life isn't strangely incomprehensible or uniquely different, if you don't seem to be at least a little bit weird to those people in your life or work or school or neighborhood, -[3209.82 --> 3214.16] what are you really basing your life on? -[3215.26 --> 3219.34] Who or what are you really being defined by? -[3219.34 --> 3229.70] If you look and act and sound exactly the same and have the same hopes and dreams for your life, are you really any different? -[3230.62 --> 3234.32] And if you're not different, what's the point? -[3237.04 --> 3242.26] Like I said, a time is coming, and maybe it's already come, when we will have to decide. -[3242.26 --> 3254.16] In a post-Christian culture, in a time of secular paganism, meaningful, committed, gospel-centered, Jesus-exalting, God-glorifying Christianity, -[3254.36 --> 3257.08] we'll not be able to hide in the mainstream. -[3258.42 --> 3266.66] Instead, we're going to have to stand against the flow of culture and the tides of idolatry, whatever form it's going to take in today's world. -[3266.66 --> 3277.54] The reality of living as exiles in the world is this new reality for us. -[3278.26 --> 3280.90] And that's what Peter is urging us in. -[3280.98 --> 3281.16] He says, -[3281.28 --> 3290.88] I urge you, beloved, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires which wage war against your soul. -[3291.84 --> 3293.22] And so hear that, right? -[3293.26 --> 3294.48] There's more identity language. -[3294.48 --> 3301.42] Beloved, foreigner, exile, and now warriors. -[3302.90 --> 3304.26] You are at war. -[3305.08 --> 3307.00] And it's a war for your soul. -[3307.12 --> 3308.74] It's a war against sin. -[3309.86 --> 3312.90] I want to acknowledge here that this probably isn't politically correct. -[3313.84 --> 3317.02] And this maybe offends your modern sensibility, -[3317.36 --> 3322.28] and this definitely contradicts the social value of tolerance that is so common in our world today. -[3322.28 --> 3324.14] But you are at war. -[3324.28 --> 3327.32] To be a Christian is to be at war. -[3327.54 --> 3330.16] But, and I'm going to slow down, -[3330.94 --> 3332.98] and I'm going to lean in, and I'm going to ask you to lean in, -[3333.20 --> 3334.56] because I want you to listen carefully. -[3335.36 --> 3338.38] You are at war, but, and here it is, -[3338.90 --> 3343.22] first and foremost, you are not at war against a political ideology. -[3343.22 --> 3348.50] You are not at war against a cultural morality or against a cultural immorality. -[3348.70 --> 3352.54] You are not at war, first and foremost, against flesh and blood. -[3352.88 --> 3356.42] You are at war with your sinful desires. -[3357.28 --> 3357.38] Right? -[3357.44 --> 3361.16] Your war is first here, and it is second here. -[3361.38 --> 3365.46] And really, only after you lose this war and this war in your heart and in your head, -[3365.46 --> 3367.32] and you act on those sinful desires, -[3367.44 --> 3370.62] does your war move out of here and into the world? -[3373.20 --> 3377.48] The problem is that so many of us, so many of you, -[3379.08 --> 3385.46] especially if you lived and came to formation in the 20th century, -[3386.26 --> 3390.84] did so in a time when we could talk about a Christian culture. -[3390.84 --> 3391.62] Right? -[3391.68 --> 3396.16] When the only real religious divide was whether you were Protestant or Catholic. -[3398.06 --> 3400.00] Now, sure, by the end of the 20th century, -[3400.14 --> 3404.14] atheism has sort of emerged into the upper echelons of society, -[3404.26 --> 3406.58] but the average person, if not a Christian, -[3406.82 --> 3409.84] was still likely a theist or a deist, -[3409.92 --> 3411.66] or at most, they were an agnostic. -[3413.54 --> 3416.62] And because that was the dominant sort of cultural milieu, -[3416.86 --> 3420.28] the dominant cultural context in which so many of us came up, -[3420.28 --> 3424.44] and so many of us lived for so long, for generations, for centuries, really, -[3424.98 --> 3427.10] we could presume belief. -[3427.40 --> 3432.20] Or at minimum, as Christians, we could presume a sympathy for belief. -[3433.30 --> 3437.24] And it's out of that context that rises things like the culture wars. -[3438.20 --> 3438.36] Right? -[3438.42 --> 3442.56] That rises things like the sexual revolution of the 60s and into the present, -[3442.66 --> 3445.40] and the purity movement that happens in response. -[3445.68 --> 3446.56] And let's be honest, right? -[3446.56 --> 3449.42] When that wasn't enough of a war going on around us, -[3449.44 --> 3451.86] in the evangelical church, we created our own wars. -[3451.94 --> 3453.06] We had worship wars. -[3454.02 --> 3455.30] Of all the things to fight about. -[3456.76 --> 3461.50] But this is what happens when you take the war against your own sinful desires -[3461.50 --> 3463.32] out of your heart and out of your head -[3463.32 --> 3466.26] and project it onto a culture around you, -[3466.84 --> 3469.88] especially onto the unbelieving parts of that culture. -[3469.88 --> 3474.32] But our context has changed. -[3476.32 --> 3479.06] So many of us operate as if it hasn't. -[3480.94 --> 3482.46] Maybe we lost the culture wars. -[3483.78 --> 3487.20] Maybe the sexual revolution won in a war of attrition. -[3488.56 --> 3492.38] But in our post-Christian, 21st century, progressive and liberal world, -[3492.64 --> 3494.30] the war isn't out there. -[3494.64 --> 3495.48] It's in here. -[3496.46 --> 3497.38] And it's in here. -[3497.38 --> 3504.78] When was the last time that you fought against the sin in your life -[3504.78 --> 3506.02] like you were at war? -[3508.80 --> 3512.70] Instead, we sing Simon and Garfunkel, -[3513.16 --> 3514.80] Hello, darkness, my old friend. -[3515.80 --> 3518.00] We make friends with our sin. -[3518.46 --> 3520.16] Now, that reference might be too old for some of you, -[3520.24 --> 3521.38] so here's another one. -[3521.42 --> 3522.80] Avi Kaplan, right? -[3522.90 --> 3524.54] I know darkness and it knows me. -[3524.66 --> 3526.32] I know my sins and they know me. -[3526.32 --> 3527.32] Right? -[3529.08 --> 3534.08] We so easily become complacent in and with our sins. -[3534.24 --> 3536.78] Or, if not complacent, we become cynical, -[3537.02 --> 3539.36] believing that there's no way that we can overcome them -[3539.36 --> 3541.00] or there's no way that they can be overcome -[3541.00 --> 3543.62] in Jesus or in the power of the Spirit. -[3545.06 --> 3547.24] Or we could become indifferent, -[3548.24 --> 3550.52] believing that they're not really that bad, -[3551.02 --> 3553.92] that it's just okay, it's who I am, -[3553.92 --> 3556.16] and really, what's wrong with me being who I am? -[3560.80 --> 3561.94] This is a war -[3561.94 --> 3564.84] for your identity -[3564.84 --> 3566.76] and your soul. -[3568.04 --> 3569.58] And into that context, -[3569.74 --> 3570.40] Peter says, -[3570.40 --> 3570.96] instead, -[3571.96 --> 3574.16] live such good lives -[3574.16 --> 3575.28] among the pagans -[3575.28 --> 3577.66] that though they accuse you of doing wrong, -[3578.24 --> 3579.74] they may see your good deeds -[3579.74 --> 3582.08] and glorify God on the day he visits. -[3583.08 --> 3584.86] Live such good lives, -[3585.56 --> 3586.04] Peter says. -[3586.58 --> 3586.72] Right? -[3586.78 --> 3587.10] Peter says, -[3587.20 --> 3588.10] resist evil -[3588.10 --> 3589.10] and do good. -[3589.10 --> 3590.76] Stop doing those things -[3590.76 --> 3592.74] that define you apart or before Jesus -[3592.74 --> 3595.18] and start doing or doing more of -[3595.18 --> 3597.30] the sorts of things that define you -[3597.30 --> 3598.46] in Jesus. -[3599.04 --> 3599.14] Right? -[3599.18 --> 3602.26] They're two sides of the same identity coin, -[3602.38 --> 3603.84] two sides of being beloved -[3603.84 --> 3605.78] and foreigners and exiles. -[3606.56 --> 3607.54] This is what it means -[3607.54 --> 3609.80] to be born again into a living hope, -[3609.80 --> 3611.42] and this is how being born again -[3611.42 --> 3612.26] into a living hope -[3612.26 --> 3613.74] changes you. -[3615.32 --> 3616.80] Live such good lives -[3617.52 --> 3619.24] among the pagans. -[3620.12 --> 3620.92] Now, really quick, -[3621.02 --> 3621.44] two things. -[3622.22 --> 3622.70] Here, first, -[3623.32 --> 3624.42] pagans is, -[3624.58 --> 3625.06] again, -[3625.14 --> 3626.06] it's another Greek word -[3626.06 --> 3627.72] and it's the Greek word ethnos. -[3627.92 --> 3630.12] It's from which we get the word ethnicity. -[3631.50 --> 3631.66] Right? -[3631.70 --> 3632.26] And it means, -[3632.34 --> 3632.78] simply, -[3632.98 --> 3635.22] nations or people of the world. -[3635.72 --> 3636.44] Now, in the Bible, -[3636.66 --> 3637.34] when it's used, -[3637.62 --> 3639.66] it refers to nations or people -[3639.66 --> 3641.14] who don't believe -[3641.14 --> 3643.72] in the Judeo-Christian God. -[3644.78 --> 3645.38] And so here, -[3645.52 --> 3646.30] in this use, -[3646.70 --> 3648.26] pagans doesn't have that same -[3648.26 --> 3650.26] sort of like naturalist, -[3650.48 --> 3652.02] religious connotations -[3652.02 --> 3653.06] that it might have -[3653.06 --> 3654.74] for some of us here this morning. -[3655.30 --> 3656.14] But notice, -[3657.34 --> 3660.50] it is still a religious term. -[3660.86 --> 3660.98] Right? -[3661.00 --> 3662.46] It is about who you believe in -[3662.46 --> 3663.82] or don't believe in. -[3664.06 --> 3666.62] The context is life lived, -[3666.78 --> 3668.68] engaging in and with a society -[3668.68 --> 3670.16] of all sorts of people, -[3670.36 --> 3671.72] of all sorts of worldviews, -[3671.76 --> 3673.08] a society of all sorts of -[3673.08 --> 3674.54] religious ideas -[3674.54 --> 3675.62] and identities, -[3676.08 --> 3676.80] a society -[3676.80 --> 3679.60] very much like ours. -[3681.46 --> 3682.30] And then second, -[3682.50 --> 3683.04] notice this. -[3684.54 --> 3685.00] Peter says, -[3685.12 --> 3687.32] to live such good lives -[3687.32 --> 3688.92] among -[3688.92 --> 3690.78] the pagans. -[3690.78 --> 3695.44] the proper Christian expectation -[3695.44 --> 3697.38] is that you will be -[3697.38 --> 3698.88] in the world. -[3699.70 --> 3701.38] We live in the midst -[3701.38 --> 3702.22] of it all. -[3702.36 --> 3702.40] Right? -[3702.40 --> 3703.08] We don't run. -[3703.22 --> 3703.90] We don't hide. -[3704.18 --> 3705.04] We don't pull away. -[3705.14 --> 3706.16] We don't get all sectarian. -[3706.40 --> 3707.60] We aren't living in secluded -[3707.60 --> 3708.88] coisters behind walls -[3708.88 --> 3709.44] of division -[3709.44 --> 3710.70] and hostility. -[3711.56 --> 3712.00] Instead, -[3713.00 --> 3714.82] the model that the Bible -[3714.82 --> 3715.50] gets us, -[3715.66 --> 3716.38] the model that Peter -[3716.38 --> 3717.82] picks up for us -[3717.82 --> 3718.60] is the same -[3718.60 --> 3720.48] as what Jeremiah -[3720.48 --> 3721.58] writes -[3721.58 --> 3723.36] all those years before -[3723.36 --> 3724.42] to the exiles -[3724.42 --> 3725.44] in Babylon. -[3727.10 --> 3728.14] If you've been around -[3728.14 --> 3729.04] since we started -[3729.04 --> 3730.32] this series a few weeks ago, -[3730.54 --> 3731.46] you will recall -[3731.46 --> 3732.66] that we reminded you -[3732.66 --> 3734.72] of that exile -[3734.72 --> 3736.02] and the stories -[3736.02 --> 3736.64] of Daniel, -[3736.88 --> 3737.54] of Shadrach, -[3737.64 --> 3738.14] of Meshach, -[3738.22 --> 3738.66] and Abednego, -[3738.82 --> 3739.74] the story of Esther. -[3740.70 --> 3740.84] Right? -[3740.92 --> 3741.56] They are all -[3741.56 --> 3743.06] among the youngest -[3743.06 --> 3743.66] Israelites -[3743.66 --> 3744.88] who were carried off -[3744.88 --> 3745.84] and then in many places -[3745.84 --> 3746.82] brought into service -[3746.82 --> 3747.36] in the courts -[3747.36 --> 3747.84] of the king. -[3748.68 --> 3748.82] Now, -[3748.82 --> 3750.02] Jeremiah is a prophet -[3750.02 --> 3751.34] who is back in Jerusalem. -[3751.84 --> 3753.34] He warned of the coming exile -[3753.34 --> 3754.58] and he explained -[3754.58 --> 3755.62] why it was happening, -[3755.80 --> 3756.30] but also, -[3756.44 --> 3757.04] what Jeremiah did -[3757.04 --> 3758.42] was he wrote a letter -[3758.42 --> 3759.72] to the exiles -[3759.72 --> 3761.18] in Babylon. -[3762.32 --> 3763.18] We have that recorded -[3763.18 --> 3764.58] for us in Jeremiah 29. -[3765.06 --> 3766.26] This is God's word -[3766.26 --> 3767.52] to those who live -[3767.52 --> 3768.66] in the sort of circumstances -[3768.66 --> 3770.24] that Peter is talking about -[3770.24 --> 3771.74] that we live in. -[3772.60 --> 3773.28] Jeremiah says, -[3773.52 --> 3776.84] this is what the Lord Almighty, -[3777.02 --> 3777.96] the God of Israel, -[3778.16 --> 3779.50] says to all those -[3779.50 --> 3781.06] who I carried into exile -[3781.06 --> 3781.84] from Jerusalem -[3781.84 --> 3783.04] to Babylon. -[3783.04 --> 3785.10] Build houses -[3785.10 --> 3786.18] and settle down. -[3786.84 --> 3787.60] Plant gardens -[3787.60 --> 3788.82] and eat what they produce. -[3789.10 --> 3790.20] Marry and have sons -[3790.20 --> 3790.74] and daughters. -[3790.92 --> 3792.18] Find wives for your sons -[3792.18 --> 3793.48] and give your daughters -[3793.48 --> 3794.02] in marriage -[3794.02 --> 3794.82] so that they too -[3794.82 --> 3795.56] may have sons -[3795.56 --> 3796.08] and daughters. -[3796.62 --> 3798.14] Increase in number there. -[3798.30 --> 3799.46] Do not decrease. -[3800.24 --> 3800.88] Also, -[3801.38 --> 3802.30] seek the peace -[3802.30 --> 3803.10] and prosperity -[3803.10 --> 3804.06] of the city -[3804.06 --> 3805.70] to which I have carried you -[3805.70 --> 3806.58] into exile. -[3807.08 --> 3808.54] Pray to the Lord for it -[3808.54 --> 3810.96] because if it prospers, -[3811.14 --> 3811.86] you too -[3811.86 --> 3813.28] will prosper. -[3815.32 --> 3815.96] So as -[3815.96 --> 3818.68] beloved foreigners -[3818.68 --> 3819.78] and exiles, -[3820.52 --> 3820.96] live -[3820.96 --> 3821.98] and work, -[3822.50 --> 3822.96] produce, -[3823.12 --> 3824.38] produce families, -[3824.60 --> 3825.84] set down roots, -[3826.02 --> 3826.84] find joy -[3826.84 --> 3827.62] and fulfillment -[3827.62 --> 3828.84] in your labors. -[3829.00 --> 3830.18] Work for the well-being -[3830.18 --> 3831.40] of the city -[3831.40 --> 3832.38] for its peace -[3832.38 --> 3834.10] and its prosperity. -[3834.72 --> 3835.74] That's what among -[3835.74 --> 3837.78] means for Peter. -[3838.78 --> 3840.22] Live such good lives -[3840.22 --> 3841.90] among the pagans -[3841.90 --> 3844.14] that though they accuse you -[3844.14 --> 3845.10] of doing wrong, -[3846.86 --> 3847.16] you see, -[3847.24 --> 3847.80] this is -[3847.80 --> 3850.18] the part that says -[3850.18 --> 3851.36] what you do -[3851.36 --> 3852.14] in holiness -[3852.14 --> 3853.52] to God -[3853.52 --> 3855.84] won't make sense. -[3857.34 --> 3858.28] Denying yourself -[3858.28 --> 3859.50] and taking up your cross -[3859.50 --> 3861.08] and following Jesus -[3861.08 --> 3862.14] won't make sense -[3862.14 --> 3863.56] to those who only know -[3863.56 --> 3864.24] the cross -[3864.24 --> 3865.52] as folly -[3865.52 --> 3866.82] and as a stumbling block. -[3867.86 --> 3869.62] In a sex-saturated, -[3869.76 --> 3870.18] immediate, -[3870.34 --> 3872.10] pleasure-seeking culture, -[3872.50 --> 3873.42] Christians actually -[3873.42 --> 3874.60] raising the bar -[3874.60 --> 3875.62] of sexual purity -[3875.62 --> 3876.50] and excellence -[3876.50 --> 3876.94] together -[3876.94 --> 3878.44] is just weird. -[3879.72 --> 3880.46] In a world -[3880.46 --> 3881.06] that tells you -[3881.06 --> 3881.56] to look out -[3881.56 --> 3882.26] for number one, -[3882.34 --> 3883.70] to protect yourself -[3883.70 --> 3884.56] and then maybe, -[3884.88 --> 3885.88] if they deserve it, -[3885.92 --> 3886.50] your family, -[3887.36 --> 3888.44] sacrificial loving -[3888.44 --> 3889.14] of strangers -[3889.14 --> 3889.84] and aliens, -[3890.00 --> 3891.48] of literal refugees -[3891.48 --> 3892.78] is abnormal. -[3894.30 --> 3895.36] When we are told -[3895.36 --> 3895.88] that the way -[3895.88 --> 3896.66] to have peace -[3896.66 --> 3897.50] and security -[3897.50 --> 3898.14] in the world -[3898.14 --> 3898.98] is to exercise -[3898.98 --> 3899.92] your power -[3899.92 --> 3900.72] and to, -[3901.02 --> 3902.60] what's the language, -[3902.78 --> 3904.34] to let your light shine, -[3905.60 --> 3906.86] Christians who willingly -[3906.86 --> 3907.98] give up peace -[3907.98 --> 3908.82] and security -[3908.82 --> 3910.06] to enter into -[3910.06 --> 3910.66] the chaos -[3910.66 --> 3912.12] of global mission, -[3912.52 --> 3914.00] who reject power -[3914.00 --> 3914.98] in order to sit -[3914.98 --> 3916.22] and share a meal -[3916.22 --> 3917.44] with the marginalized, -[3918.78 --> 3920.54] you will look strange. -[3922.18 --> 3923.00] And look, -[3923.86 --> 3926.36] it's always been this way -[3926.36 --> 3927.84] for Christians -[3927.84 --> 3929.04] who are properly -[3929.04 --> 3931.30] living in this identity. -[3932.56 --> 3934.68] There's a Roman historian -[3934.68 --> 3937.22] from the second century. -[3937.50 --> 3938.14] So this is, -[3938.14 --> 3938.48] you know, -[3938.60 --> 3940.68] 60 or 70 years -[3940.68 --> 3941.92] after Peter writes. -[3942.96 --> 3944.14] His name is Tacitus. -[3945.50 --> 3946.74] And he tells -[3946.74 --> 3948.52] in his history -[3948.52 --> 3949.90] that Christians -[3949.90 --> 3951.12] are, quote, -[3951.20 --> 3953.26] hated for their abominations. -[3954.46 --> 3955.32] What he means by that -[3955.32 --> 3957.04] is that they have upset -[3957.04 --> 3958.78] the social order -[3958.78 --> 3960.54] by changing -[3960.54 --> 3962.28] the sexual ethic. -[3962.28 --> 3963.14] They have upset -[3963.14 --> 3964.10] the social order -[3964.10 --> 3967.30] by redefining gender -[3967.30 --> 3970.44] in a more egalitarian perspective, -[3971.08 --> 3972.60] redefining the social order -[3972.60 --> 3973.64] where slaves -[3973.64 --> 3975.44] have become elevated -[3975.44 --> 3976.22] and raised up -[3976.22 --> 3976.82] as leaders -[3976.82 --> 3977.46] in churches -[3977.46 --> 3978.42] and communities -[3978.42 --> 3980.00] and then are exercising -[3980.00 --> 3980.62] authority -[3980.62 --> 3982.72] over their earthly masters. -[3984.16 --> 3985.10] Tacitus actually -[3985.10 --> 3986.56] calls Christians -[3986.56 --> 3987.62] and say that he, -[3987.82 --> 3988.24] that they, -[3989.24 --> 3989.26] quote, -[3989.26 --> 3990.52] exercise a deadly -[3990.52 --> 3991.88] and dangerous -[3991.88 --> 3993.24] superstition. -[3994.20 --> 3994.68] And Christians -[3994.68 --> 3995.08] even, -[3995.26 --> 3996.12] according to Tacitus, -[3996.68 --> 3998.30] practice cannibalism. -[4000.16 --> 4000.64] Now, -[4000.68 --> 4001.16] why do Christians -[4001.16 --> 4002.20] practice cannibalism? -[4003.26 --> 4004.32] Because of the Lord's Supper. -[4005.70 --> 4005.92] Right? -[4006.02 --> 4006.70] Jesus said, -[4006.80 --> 4008.22] unless you eat my flesh -[4008.22 --> 4009.22] and drink my blood. -[4010.08 --> 4011.34] And so that went out. -[4011.38 --> 4012.14] And that's weird. -[4012.92 --> 4013.68] And let's be honest, -[4013.74 --> 4014.28] it is. -[4014.28 --> 4017.16] If it's not weird to you, -[4017.66 --> 4019.38] either you're apathetic -[4019.38 --> 4019.92] to it -[4019.92 --> 4021.66] or you've been here -[4021.66 --> 4022.28] for so long -[4022.28 --> 4023.10] that it's just normal -[4023.10 --> 4024.22] and praise God for that. -[4024.54 --> 4025.60] Because it's weird. -[4026.42 --> 4027.26] Christians actually, -[4027.44 --> 4028.22] according to Tacitus, -[4028.42 --> 4030.36] are charged with atheism. -[4031.68 --> 4032.82] The first atheists -[4032.82 --> 4033.40] in the world -[4033.40 --> 4034.32] are actually Christians. -[4034.46 --> 4034.66] Why? -[4034.92 --> 4035.86] Because they refuse -[4035.86 --> 4037.10] to acknowledge -[4037.10 --> 4038.10] the Greek and Roman -[4038.10 --> 4039.04] pantheon of gods. -[4039.14 --> 4039.90] They refuse to -[4039.90 --> 4041.02] worship the emperor -[4041.02 --> 4042.42] as an incarnation -[4042.42 --> 4043.88] of the divine. -[4044.28 --> 4048.20] one of the normal, -[4048.46 --> 4049.98] ordinary Roman practices -[4049.98 --> 4050.74] in the world -[4050.74 --> 4051.38] of that day -[4051.38 --> 4052.58] was something called -[4052.58 --> 4053.56] infant exposure. -[4054.22 --> 4056.20] And this is an atrocious practice, -[4056.34 --> 4056.84] but to be honest, -[4056.88 --> 4057.46] it's not really -[4057.46 --> 4058.70] that far different -[4058.70 --> 4060.34] than some cultural practices -[4060.34 --> 4060.90] of abortion. -[4061.92 --> 4062.44] But the idea -[4062.44 --> 4063.22] of infant exposure -[4063.22 --> 4063.92] is that -[4063.92 --> 4066.62] people would have children -[4066.62 --> 4067.60] and they would prefer -[4067.60 --> 4068.92] to have boys -[4068.92 --> 4071.76] and if they didn't have a boy -[4071.76 --> 4072.64] or if they already -[4072.64 --> 4073.52] had more children -[4073.52 --> 4073.94] than they could -[4073.94 --> 4074.74] properly support, -[4075.10 --> 4075.70] they would take -[4075.70 --> 4076.42] these kids -[4076.42 --> 4077.26] who were just born -[4077.26 --> 4078.04] as infants -[4078.04 --> 4078.74] and they would place -[4078.74 --> 4079.62] them in the garbage heap -[4079.62 --> 4080.44] outside of the city -[4080.44 --> 4080.98] and they would just -[4080.98 --> 4081.46] walk away. -[4083.44 --> 4083.64] Now, -[4083.68 --> 4084.44] that sounds atrocious -[4084.44 --> 4085.10] to us, -[4085.48 --> 4086.66] but it was perfectly -[4086.66 --> 4087.64] normal -[4087.64 --> 4089.18] in Roman society -[4089.18 --> 4091.36] except for Christians -[4091.36 --> 4094.08] who saw that practice -[4094.08 --> 4094.54] and said, -[4094.66 --> 4094.76] no, -[4094.82 --> 4096.06] we're going to make changes. -[4096.06 --> 4098.16] And so they would go out -[4098.16 --> 4099.86] to the garbage heaps, -[4100.04 --> 4101.24] gather up these infants -[4101.24 --> 4102.10] and then raise them -[4102.10 --> 4102.86] as their own. -[4103.74 --> 4105.22] There's actually a story, -[4105.68 --> 4107.76] whether it's fully true, -[4107.82 --> 4108.46] we can't tell -[4108.46 --> 4109.22] based on the history, -[4109.34 --> 4110.46] but the shepherd of Hermes -[4110.46 --> 4111.42] who became a Christian leader -[4111.42 --> 4112.10] in the early church, -[4112.54 --> 4113.52] he is thought to have been -[4113.52 --> 4114.30] one of these infants -[4114.30 --> 4115.70] who were discarded at birth -[4115.70 --> 4116.80] and then was raised up -[4116.80 --> 4117.54] and became someone -[4117.54 --> 4118.72] who wrote and led -[4118.72 --> 4119.76] in the church. -[4120.72 --> 4123.30] This was absolutely weird -[4123.30 --> 4125.22] and abnormal behavior -[4125.22 --> 4127.00] and yet it was precisely -[4127.00 --> 4128.48] where the Christians -[4128.48 --> 4129.24] knew they had to be. -[4130.00 --> 4131.20] None of this made sense -[4131.20 --> 4132.64] in the world of the day. -[4133.82 --> 4133.90] Right? -[4134.58 --> 4135.92] It's because Christians -[4135.92 --> 4138.34] are accused of ruining society, -[4139.10 --> 4140.90] of ruining the normal system. -[4140.98 --> 4141.46] And honestly, -[4141.60 --> 4142.72] if you could be empathetic to it, -[4142.74 --> 4143.24] think about it. -[4143.80 --> 4146.98] If you live in a farming community -[4146.98 --> 4148.72] outside of the city of Rome, -[4148.72 --> 4150.98] you know that the rain comes -[4150.98 --> 4152.82] and that plants germinate -[4152.82 --> 4154.18] because you have offered -[4154.18 --> 4155.16] the right prayers -[4155.16 --> 4156.52] to the right gods -[4156.52 --> 4157.68] of fertility and growth -[4157.68 --> 4158.42] in the right way -[4158.42 --> 4159.50] at the right time of year. -[4160.22 --> 4162.32] But if one person or family -[4162.32 --> 4163.62] in your farming collective -[4163.62 --> 4164.72] becomes a Christian -[4164.72 --> 4166.34] and then he and his family -[4166.34 --> 4167.32] stop worshiping -[4167.32 --> 4168.46] these traditional gods -[4168.46 --> 4170.52] and then the crop fails -[4170.52 --> 4172.20] or insects come -[4172.20 --> 4173.76] and destroy everything -[4173.76 --> 4174.92] or there is a drought, -[4175.36 --> 4176.32] whose fault is it? -[4177.76 --> 4178.66] Well, there's only one person -[4178.66 --> 4179.12] to blame. -[4180.32 --> 4181.42] It's those Christians. -[4182.76 --> 4182.88] Right? -[4182.94 --> 4184.34] Their belief is dangerous -[4184.34 --> 4186.54] to the normal ordering -[4186.54 --> 4187.52] of society. -[4187.68 --> 4188.92] It's messing with the fabric -[4188.92 --> 4190.98] of life and culture. -[4192.60 --> 4193.74] I want to ask you, -[4194.52 --> 4197.72] is your belief dangerous? -[4199.50 --> 4201.84] Is your faith radical? -[4201.84 --> 4201.92] biblical? -[4203.12 --> 4203.66] Or, -[4203.90 --> 4206.02] is God just another tool -[4206.02 --> 4206.74] in your bag -[4206.74 --> 4207.38] to accomplish -[4207.38 --> 4208.38] your prosperity? -[4210.78 --> 4213.40] Is church just another community -[4213.40 --> 4215.52] where you can be used -[4215.52 --> 4217.26] and where you can use others -[4217.26 --> 4218.06] to accomplish -[4218.06 --> 4219.38] the Canadian dream -[4219.38 --> 4219.96] of ease -[4219.96 --> 4221.18] and status? -[4222.78 --> 4224.48] Live such good lives -[4224.48 --> 4225.38] among the pagans -[4225.38 --> 4226.90] that though they accuse you -[4226.90 --> 4227.76] of doing wrong, -[4227.76 --> 4229.48] they may see your good deeds -[4229.48 --> 4231.34] and glorify God -[4231.34 --> 4232.24] on the day -[4232.24 --> 4234.40] he visits us. -[4235.56 --> 4236.54] And that's it. -[4237.36 --> 4239.06] That's the point of it all. -[4239.22 --> 4239.34] Right? -[4239.40 --> 4240.44] Why do you abstain -[4240.44 --> 4241.88] from sinful desires -[4241.88 --> 4242.92] like a warrior? -[4243.62 --> 4244.68] Why do you live -[4244.68 --> 4246.02] as beloved foreigners -[4246.02 --> 4247.28] and exiles? -[4247.28 --> 4248.54] Why do you endure -[4248.54 --> 4249.92] accusation -[4249.92 --> 4250.66] and hardship -[4250.66 --> 4251.44] and opposition -[4251.44 --> 4253.04] and weirdness -[4253.04 --> 4254.36] and peculiarity? -[4255.94 --> 4257.50] For the glory -[4257.50 --> 4259.64] of God. -[4260.10 --> 4261.50] For the glory of God. -[4261.60 --> 4263.56] There is no greater reason. -[4263.72 --> 4265.20] There is no greater purpose. -[4266.12 --> 4267.30] And you've really -[4267.30 --> 4268.44] got to believe that. -[4268.78 --> 4268.92] Right? -[4268.96 --> 4270.06] You've got to be sold -[4270.06 --> 4270.86] on the idea -[4270.86 --> 4271.84] that God's glory -[4271.84 --> 4274.48] really is your greatest joy. -[4274.70 --> 4275.76] You've got to buy into -[4275.76 --> 4277.22] that hook, line, and sinker. -[4277.48 --> 4279.56] That Jesus is your all in all. -[4279.80 --> 4281.46] You've got to really believe that. -[4281.68 --> 4283.18] Like Paul says in Philippians -[4283.18 --> 4285.20] that the traditional markers -[4285.20 --> 4286.40] of success and power -[4286.40 --> 4287.66] and status in society -[4287.66 --> 4288.78] are rubbish, -[4289.08 --> 4289.58] are garbage. -[4289.90 --> 4290.86] Literally, he says, -[4290.94 --> 4291.42] and I'll keep it -[4291.42 --> 4292.26] in polite company here, -[4292.42 --> 4293.66] he says that they're BS -[4293.66 --> 4296.68] compared to the surpassing -[4296.68 --> 4298.60] greatness of knowing God. -[4299.96 --> 4301.60] It's only when you know God -[4301.60 --> 4302.36] that way -[4302.36 --> 4304.72] can you live this way. -[4307.28 --> 4308.44] And knowing God that way -[4308.44 --> 4310.42] only comes one way. -[4311.34 --> 4312.22] Peter makes this clear -[4312.22 --> 4314.06] in the rest of the chapter. -[4314.78 --> 4315.54] We didn't read it, -[4315.64 --> 4317.46] but with Bibles before you -[4317.46 --> 4318.48] or on the screen, -[4318.74 --> 4321.64] look at verse 21. -[4321.64 --> 4325.86] To this you were called -[4325.86 --> 4329.32] because Christ suffered for you, -[4329.76 --> 4330.86] leaving you an example -[4330.86 --> 4331.74] that you should follow -[4331.74 --> 4332.48] in his steps. -[4333.22 --> 4334.74] He committed no sin -[4334.74 --> 4335.80] and no deceit -[4335.80 --> 4337.12] was found in his mouth. -[4337.84 --> 4339.58] When they hurled insults at him, -[4339.64 --> 4340.64] he did not retaliate. -[4341.18 --> 4342.22] When he suffered, -[4342.74 --> 4343.88] he made no threats. -[4344.96 --> 4345.28] Instead, -[4345.68 --> 4347.26] he entrusted himself -[4347.26 --> 4349.84] to him who judges justly. -[4351.68 --> 4352.76] He bore himself, -[4352.96 --> 4354.92] he himself bore our sins -[4354.92 --> 4356.60] in his body on the cross -[4356.60 --> 4359.12] so that we might die to sins -[4359.12 --> 4361.22] and live for righteousness. -[4362.32 --> 4364.04] By his wounds, -[4364.14 --> 4365.18] you have been healed. -[4366.86 --> 4368.74] For you were like sheep -[4368.74 --> 4369.64] going astray, -[4370.38 --> 4371.88] but now you have returned -[4371.88 --> 4372.56] to the shepherd -[4372.56 --> 4374.16] and overseer -[4374.16 --> 4375.64] of your souls. -[4380.18 --> 4383.02] He himself bore our sins -[4383.02 --> 4384.72] in his body -[4384.72 --> 4386.10] on the cross -[4386.10 --> 4389.22] so that we might die to sins -[4389.22 --> 4392.04] and live for righteousness. -[4394.26 --> 4397.30] The way to have relationship -[4397.30 --> 4398.34] with God, -[4398.44 --> 4399.40] the way to live -[4399.40 --> 4400.40] in the manner -[4400.40 --> 4402.06] that God has called you to live -[4402.06 --> 4403.20] and is equipping you to live -[4403.20 --> 4405.50] is to see Jesus. -[4406.70 --> 4408.12] To see that he has lived -[4408.12 --> 4409.34] the life I should have lived -[4409.34 --> 4411.02] and that by his grace, -[4411.16 --> 4412.58] he grants me -[4412.58 --> 4414.02] somehow in this -[4414.02 --> 4415.80] great divine exchange -[4415.80 --> 4417.14] his righteousness -[4417.14 --> 4418.84] and that that exchange -[4418.84 --> 4421.34] also takes my sin -[4421.34 --> 4422.10] and the punishment -[4422.10 --> 4423.60] that I deserve for that -[4423.60 --> 4424.88] and puts it on him -[4424.88 --> 4426.12] so that on the cross, -[4426.56 --> 4427.92] he bears it -[4427.92 --> 4429.96] in my place. -[4431.22 --> 4432.12] He lived the life -[4432.12 --> 4432.90] I should have lived -[4432.90 --> 4433.92] and died the death -[4433.92 --> 4435.28] that I deserve -[4435.28 --> 4437.64] so that by his grace -[4437.64 --> 4438.96] we might live -[4438.96 --> 4440.50] in righteousness -[4440.50 --> 4442.28] with him. -[4447.08 --> 4448.88] Notice here. -[4450.46 --> 4451.78] Not only does Jesus -[4451.78 --> 4453.76] accomplish this identity -[4453.76 --> 4457.26] and give it to you, -[4457.26 --> 4459.28] but then he is also -[4459.28 --> 4461.90] held up as our example. -[4463.24 --> 4464.64] He's held up as -[4464.64 --> 4466.58] the one whom we are -[4466.58 --> 4467.46] to mirror -[4467.46 --> 4468.90] in the world -[4468.90 --> 4470.82] and in our relationships. -[4472.88 --> 4474.64] And in this section here, -[4475.30 --> 4476.64] Peter highlights -[4476.64 --> 4479.76] three key relationships -[4479.76 --> 4483.20] wherein you can reflect -[4483.20 --> 4486.18] this gospel truth. -[4486.18 --> 4489.54] we read the first -[4489.54 --> 4490.42] relationship, -[4490.92 --> 4491.08] right? -[4491.14 --> 4493.02] The civic relationship -[4493.02 --> 4494.68] in verse 13 through 17. -[4495.44 --> 4495.54] Right? -[4495.66 --> 4496.26] Submit yourselves -[4496.26 --> 4496.98] to the Lord's sake -[4496.98 --> 4498.36] for every human authority, -[4498.50 --> 4499.38] whether to the emperor -[4499.38 --> 4500.68] as supreme authority -[4500.68 --> 4501.54] or to the governors. -[4501.68 --> 4502.14] Verse 17, -[4502.28 --> 4503.20] show proper respect -[4503.20 --> 4503.96] to everyone. -[4504.48 --> 4505.06] Love the family -[4505.06 --> 4505.66] of believers. -[4505.92 --> 4506.50] Fear God -[4506.50 --> 4508.34] and honor the emperor. -[4510.22 --> 4510.70] Now, -[4511.70 --> 4512.42] again, -[4512.80 --> 4513.68] real quick, -[4513.68 --> 4514.90] in case you -[4514.90 --> 4516.02] don't know this, -[4516.12 --> 4518.84] but two or four years -[4518.84 --> 4519.80] after Peter -[4519.80 --> 4521.52] writes this letter, -[4522.78 --> 4523.24] Nero, -[4524.42 --> 4525.46] historians say, -[4525.76 --> 4527.14] starts to lose his mind -[4527.14 --> 4528.72] and he starts -[4528.72 --> 4530.34] killing Christians, -[4530.92 --> 4531.54] burning them -[4531.54 --> 4532.60] at the stake. -[4534.32 --> 4535.52] He was emperor -[4535.52 --> 4536.62] when Peter said, -[4537.62 --> 4540.48] submit yourselves -[4540.48 --> 4541.78] for the Lord's sake -[4541.78 --> 4543.06] to every human authority. -[4544.52 --> 4545.14] Fear God, -[4545.80 --> 4547.10] honor the emperor. -[4551.58 --> 4553.12] One of the ways -[4553.12 --> 4554.28] that we, -[4554.82 --> 4555.82] as Christians, -[4556.08 --> 4557.46] might look weird -[4557.46 --> 4560.04] is by honoring -[4560.04 --> 4561.92] the civic authorities -[4561.92 --> 4563.62] that are placed -[4563.62 --> 4564.22] in our midst. -[4565.46 --> 4565.84] Now, -[4565.88 --> 4566.26] I get that -[4566.26 --> 4567.22] that has to be careful -[4567.22 --> 4568.20] and that some of you -[4568.20 --> 4569.02] are going to push back -[4569.02 --> 4569.24] and say, -[4569.32 --> 4569.36] well, -[4569.36 --> 4570.02] what if they call me -[4570.02 --> 4570.86] into disobedience -[4570.86 --> 4571.76] and call me into sin -[4571.76 --> 4572.60] and so on and so forth? -[4574.66 --> 4575.50] I'm happy to have -[4575.50 --> 4576.52] that discerning conversation -[4576.52 --> 4577.00] with you. -[4577.52 --> 4578.80] But the starting point -[4578.80 --> 4581.26] has to be -[4581.26 --> 4582.98] submit yourselves -[4582.98 --> 4584.04] for the Lord's sake. -[4585.20 --> 4586.38] Is that your starting point? -[4586.70 --> 4587.34] Because that's what -[4587.34 --> 4589.00] a witness looks like. -[4589.06 --> 4590.44] That's what a living example -[4590.44 --> 4591.46] looks like. -[4592.10 --> 4592.80] The next one there -[4592.80 --> 4593.12] is, -[4593.62 --> 4595.48] it's referred to -[4595.48 --> 4596.72] directly as slaves, -[4596.84 --> 4599.08] verse 18 through 20 there. -[4599.08 --> 4600.32] Slaves in reverent fear -[4600.32 --> 4600.80] submit, -[4601.64 --> 4602.46] reverent fear of God, -[4602.56 --> 4603.40] submit yourselves -[4603.40 --> 4604.54] to your masters. -[4605.80 --> 4607.18] But there's a bigger context -[4607.18 --> 4608.64] in which we can understand this. -[4608.72 --> 4608.82] Now, -[4609.22 --> 4610.24] I want to be really clear -[4610.24 --> 4611.00] about two things. -[4611.12 --> 4611.30] One, -[4611.76 --> 4613.48] slavery in the Roman Empire -[4613.48 --> 4615.12] is not the same -[4615.12 --> 4616.60] as the sort of -[4616.60 --> 4617.68] racist, -[4618.00 --> 4619.12] chattel slavery -[4619.12 --> 4621.46] that we are familiar with -[4621.46 --> 4622.24] in American -[4622.24 --> 4623.54] and Canadian history. -[4624.04 --> 4625.18] It is not the same, -[4625.26 --> 4626.42] but it's not so different -[4626.42 --> 4627.50] as to just be okay. -[4627.50 --> 4628.46] Right? -[4628.50 --> 4629.40] It's still slavery, -[4629.62 --> 4632.54] but it is part of the -[4632.54 --> 4635.38] ordinary economic life -[4635.38 --> 4637.02] of the empire. -[4637.46 --> 4638.96] And people would willingly -[4638.96 --> 4640.34] sell themselves -[4640.34 --> 4641.20] into slavery -[4641.20 --> 4642.44] in order to pay down a debt -[4642.44 --> 4643.10] or in order to -[4643.10 --> 4644.12] free someone -[4644.12 --> 4644.82] or in order to -[4644.82 --> 4645.96] get the charity -[4645.96 --> 4647.36] of a particular patron -[4647.36 --> 4648.78] or a well-to-do person -[4648.78 --> 4649.32] in society -[4649.32 --> 4649.94] so that they could -[4649.94 --> 4651.04] advance their station. -[4652.24 --> 4652.36] Right? -[4652.36 --> 4653.76] There's lots of accounts -[4653.76 --> 4655.22] actually of slaves -[4655.22 --> 4658.08] having received -[4658.08 --> 4659.40] their freedom -[4659.40 --> 4661.40] and then entering -[4661.40 --> 4663.14] into the Senate, -[4663.40 --> 4663.86] for instance, -[4664.00 --> 4665.04] in the Roman world. -[4667.32 --> 4668.50] And so really, -[4668.72 --> 4669.30] I think, -[4669.72 --> 4670.60] maybe the best way -[4670.60 --> 4671.58] to understand this -[4671.58 --> 4672.62] is as it pertains -[4672.62 --> 4674.92] to our economic life, -[4675.32 --> 4676.66] as it pertains -[4676.66 --> 4679.08] to your vocational life. -[4680.12 --> 4681.80] The way you work, -[4682.12 --> 4683.50] the way you respect -[4683.50 --> 4684.22] your boss -[4684.22 --> 4686.20] or the way you be a boss, -[4686.36 --> 4688.46] the way you do -[4688.46 --> 4690.88] the tasks that are set out -[4690.88 --> 4691.44] for you -[4691.44 --> 4692.64] is an opportunity -[4692.64 --> 4695.26] to be a living example, -[4695.26 --> 4696.38] is an opportunity -[4696.38 --> 4697.32] to proclaim -[4697.32 --> 4699.82] the truth of God. -[4699.82 --> 4703.18] And then finally, -[4703.74 --> 4706.16] in chapter 3, -[4706.68 --> 4707.80] the first seven verses, -[4708.82 --> 4710.76] there's a holding out -[4710.76 --> 4712.34] of married life -[4712.34 --> 4715.78] as a place to be, -[4716.16 --> 4717.76] as a place to be -[4717.76 --> 4718.54] as an example. -[4719.12 --> 4719.78] Particularly, -[4720.56 --> 4722.26] in the first section there, -[4722.34 --> 4722.82] for women -[4722.82 --> 4724.50] who are submitting themselves -[4724.50 --> 4725.42] to the husbands, -[4725.76 --> 4726.62] and you hear that, -[4726.70 --> 4727.64] just to the husband, -[4727.64 --> 4727.98] okay? -[4728.68 --> 4729.76] But particularly, -[4729.82 --> 4731.56] to unbelieving husbands, -[4731.98 --> 4733.90] so that even if they -[4733.90 --> 4735.20] don't hear the words, -[4735.30 --> 4736.24] they might be won over -[4736.24 --> 4737.44] by the behavior -[4737.44 --> 4738.94] of their wives. -[4739.76 --> 4739.94] Right? -[4740.00 --> 4741.48] There's an opportunity -[4741.48 --> 4744.02] in our marriage relationships -[4744.02 --> 4745.10] to model -[4745.10 --> 4746.86] the gospel of Jesus -[4746.86 --> 4748.64] in incredibly beautiful -[4748.64 --> 4750.86] and powerful ways. -[4752.10 --> 4753.50] This is what it means -[4753.50 --> 4755.48] to be living examples, -[4755.84 --> 4756.72] beloved of God, -[4756.72 --> 4757.16] foreigners, -[4758.04 --> 4758.78] and exiles. -[4758.78 --> 4760.08] Now notice carefully -[4760.08 --> 4762.06] that I've just introduced -[4762.06 --> 4762.84] those to you. -[4763.40 --> 4763.96] I haven't told you -[4763.96 --> 4764.48] how to do it. -[4765.40 --> 4766.50] That's your job. -[4766.50 --> 4771.00] So in your civic life, -[4771.34 --> 4773.30] in your economic life, -[4773.30 --> 4775.00] in your communal life, -[4775.58 --> 4777.12] how will you be -[4777.12 --> 4779.10] a living example? -[4780.46 --> 4781.40] My prayer for you -[4781.40 --> 4781.96] is that you are -[4781.96 --> 4783.38] so captivated -[4783.38 --> 4784.84] by the glory of God -[4784.84 --> 4786.00] and the gospel of Jesus -[4786.00 --> 4787.56] that this just oozes -[4787.56 --> 4788.90] out of you. -[4790.44 --> 4791.02] And yet, -[4791.08 --> 4791.96] I know it's going to be hard. -[4791.96 --> 4794.36] And I know that we're -[4794.36 --> 4795.00] going to stumble -[4795.00 --> 4796.74] and we're going to fall -[4796.74 --> 4798.02] and we're going to struggle -[4798.02 --> 4799.32] in doing this. -[4799.42 --> 4800.56] And many of us, -[4800.56 --> 4803.06] like my 13-year-old self, -[4803.14 --> 4804.38] are not going to like -[4804.38 --> 4805.52] being weird. -[4807.60 --> 4808.62] But here's the thing. -[4810.08 --> 4811.96] When we are all weird together, -[4812.58 --> 4814.20] it's not really that weird. -[4815.90 --> 4816.38] Right? -[4816.44 --> 4817.24] When we are all -[4817.24 --> 4819.30] foreigners and aliens together, -[4819.30 --> 4819.36] together, -[4819.86 --> 4821.64] we do have a community. -[4822.16 --> 4823.16] We do have a place. -[4823.64 --> 4824.64] We do have a family -[4824.64 --> 4827.38] whereby we can be encouraged -[4827.38 --> 4829.42] as living examples. -[4830.82 --> 4831.74] And so this week, -[4831.82 --> 4832.34] as you go, -[4832.70 --> 4834.18] be those living examples -[4834.18 --> 4837.16] and then come back -[4837.16 --> 4839.60] so we can hear about it. -[4840.24 --> 4841.64] Come back so we can share it. -[4841.72 --> 4842.66] Come back so we can offer -[4842.66 --> 4843.74] encouragement and prayer -[4843.74 --> 4845.18] and struggle and tears -[4845.18 --> 4846.04] and crying -[4846.04 --> 4850.82] because we are living examples. -[4851.44 --> 4851.70] Amen? -[4852.90 --> 4853.86] Let's pray together. -[4860.32 --> 4861.22] Lord our God, -[4861.98 --> 4863.54] send us out now -[4863.54 --> 4865.20] in the power of your word -[4865.20 --> 4867.70] by the working of your Holy Spirit. -[4867.86 --> 4868.80] Send us out now -[4868.80 --> 4870.82] captivated and convicted -[4870.82 --> 4872.78] by the truth of the gospel. -[4872.78 --> 4873.90] Send us out now -[4873.90 --> 4875.72] our hearts stirred -[4875.72 --> 4877.34] having seen your glory -[4877.34 --> 4878.92] and our imaginations -[4878.92 --> 4880.00] for how we might -[4880.00 --> 4883.16] serve you invigorated. -[4885.80 --> 4886.94] Send us out -[4886.94 --> 4888.86] so that we might be -[4888.86 --> 4890.74] living examples. -[4892.44 --> 4893.52] Send us out -[4893.52 --> 4894.80] so that we might live -[4894.80 --> 4896.06] such good lives -[4896.06 --> 4896.96] among the pagans -[4896.96 --> 4899.04] that though they accuse us -[4899.04 --> 4899.66] of doing wrong, -[4900.36 --> 4902.02] they may see your good deeds, -[4902.02 --> 4904.04] see our good deeds, -[4904.38 --> 4906.12] and glorify you -[4906.12 --> 4907.76] on the day you visit. -[4908.28 --> 4909.50] In your name we pray. -[4910.38 --> 4910.94] Amen. -[4910.94 --> 4911.04] Amen. -[4932.02 --> 4950.06] Take my life and let it be -[4950.06 --> 4951.84] constant, -[4951.90 --> 4952.52] great, -[4952.52 --> 4955.26] and Lord to thee. -[4955.72 --> 4958.02] Take my moments -[4958.02 --> 4960.88] and my days, -[4960.88 --> 4963.20] let them flow -[4963.20 --> 4966.32] in endless praise. -[4966.32 --> 4968.68] Let them flow -[4968.68 --> 4971.32] in endless praise. -[4975.32 --> 4978.20] Take my hands -[4978.20 --> 4981.16] and let them move -[4981.16 --> 4984.26] at the impulse -[4984.26 --> 4986.56] of thy love. -[4987.02 --> 4989.02] Take my feet -[4989.02 --> 4991.34] and let them be -[4991.34 --> 4994.46] swift and beautiful -[4994.46 --> 4997.34] for thee. -[4997.34 --> 5000.54] Swift and beautiful -[5000.54 --> 5002.74] for thee. -[5005.30 --> 5008.56] Take the noise -[5008.56 --> 5011.80] and let me sing -[5011.80 --> 5013.46] always, -[5013.46 --> 5018.34] only for my King. -[5018.34 --> 5021.66] take my lips -[5021.66 --> 5025.66] and let them be -[5025.66 --> 5029.82] filled with messages -[5029.82 --> 5032.66] from thee. -[5032.66 --> 5037.72] Filled with messages -[5037.72 --> 5040.66] from thee. -[5040.66 --> 5047.98] take my love -[5047.98 --> 5048.98] and let them be -[5048.98 --> 5049.98] for me. -[5049.98 --> 5050.98] Take my love, -[5050.98 --> 5051.98] my Lord, -[5051.98 --> 5052.98] I pour -[5052.98 --> 5053.98] that thy feet -[5053.98 --> 5055.98] its treasure -[5055.98 --> 5056.98] soar. -[5056.98 --> 5059.98] Take myself -[5059.98 --> 5063.98] and I will be -[5063.98 --> 5065.30] never, -[5065.30 --> 5066.30] never, -[5066.30 --> 5067.30] never, -[5067.30 --> 5068.30] only, -[5068.30 --> 5070.30] all for thee. -[5070.30 --> 5072.30] Never, -[5072.30 --> 5073.30] only, -[5073.30 --> 5077.30] all for thee. -[5077.30 --> 5099.12] as you go -[5099.12 --> 5100.22] this week, -[5100.44 --> 5101.90] go as living -[5101.90 --> 5102.44] examples -[5102.44 --> 5104.02] of the gospel -[5104.02 --> 5105.08] of grace -[5105.08 --> 5105.70] and go -[5105.70 --> 5106.80] in the power -[5106.80 --> 5107.64] of God -[5107.64 --> 5108.30] who goes -[5108.30 --> 5109.20] with you. -[5109.60 --> 5110.66] Go with his -[5110.66 --> 5111.70] blessing. -[5113.44 --> 5114.36] May God -[5114.36 --> 5115.14] go before you -[5115.14 --> 5116.18] to lead you. -[5116.88 --> 5117.38] May God -[5117.38 --> 5118.34] go behind you -[5118.34 --> 5119.32] to guard you. -[5120.44 --> 5121.00] May God -[5121.00 --> 5122.18] go beneath you -[5122.18 --> 5123.48] to support you. -[5124.16 --> 5124.70] May God -[5124.70 --> 5125.70] go beside you -[5125.70 --> 5126.86] to befriend you. -[5127.84 --> 5128.42] Do not -[5128.42 --> 5129.90] be afraid. -[5130.50 --> 5131.06] Let the blessing -[5131.06 --> 5131.44] of God -[5131.44 --> 5132.02] come upon you -[5132.02 --> 5132.28] today. -[5132.38 --> 5133.70] Do not be afraid -[5133.70 --> 5134.60] but go -[5134.60 --> 5135.82] in peace -[5135.82 --> 5137.08] as living -[5137.08 --> 5137.82] examples -[5137.82 --> 5139.02] to love -[5139.02 --> 5140.06] and serve -[5140.06 --> 5140.88] the Lord. -[5142.10 --> 5142.78] Amen. -[5155.70 --> 5169.62] These are the days -[5169.62 --> 5170.94] of Elijah -[5170.94 --> 5174.48] declaring the word -[5174.48 --> 5175.74] of the Lord -[5175.74 --> 5179.38] and these are the days -[5179.38 --> 5180.90] of your servant -[5180.90 --> 5181.84] Moses -[5181.84 --> 5183.06] as precious -[5183.06 --> 5185.48] as being restored. -[5187.00 --> 5188.24] And though these -[5188.24 --> 5189.00] are days -[5189.00 --> 5191.00] of great trials -[5191.00 --> 5192.76] of famine -[5192.76 --> 5194.02] and darkness -[5194.02 --> 5195.56] and storm -[5195.56 --> 5198.00] still we are -[5198.00 --> 5198.82] the voice -[5198.82 --> 5200.24] in the desert -[5200.24 --> 5201.30] crying -[5201.30 --> 5202.48] preparing -[5202.48 --> 5203.66] the way -[5203.66 --> 5204.96] of the Lord. -[5205.34 --> 5206.30] The holy -[5206.30 --> 5207.60] comes -[5207.60 --> 5209.12] riding on the -[5209.12 --> 5210.04] clouds -[5210.04 --> 5211.40] shining like -[5211.40 --> 5212.30] sun -[5212.30 --> 5213.40] at the -[5213.40 --> 5213.86] trumpet -[5213.86 --> 5215.40] called -[5215.40 --> 5217.26] with your voice -[5217.26 --> 5219.62] nearer to believe -[5219.62 --> 5220.54] and now -[5220.54 --> 5221.22] desire -[5221.22 --> 5223.34] till salvation -[5223.34 --> 5224.40] comes. -[5232.40 --> 5234.40] And these are -[5234.40 --> 5235.30] the days -[5235.30 --> 5236.40] of Ezekiel -[5236.40 --> 5239.24] the dry bones -[5239.24 --> 5240.14] becoming -[5240.14 --> 5241.70] as much -[5241.70 --> 5243.70] and these -[5243.70 --> 5244.94] are the days -[5244.94 --> 5246.56] of your servant -[5246.56 --> 5247.46] David -[5247.46 --> 5248.66] rebuilding -[5248.66 --> 5249.92] a temple -[5249.92 --> 5251.14] of bread -[5251.14 --> 5253.42] and these -[5253.42 --> 5254.64] are the days -[5254.64 --> 5255.98] of the harvest -[5255.98 --> 5258.30] the fields -[5258.30 --> 5259.52] are as white -[5259.52 --> 5261.68] in your world -[5261.68 --> 5263.56] and we are -[5263.56 --> 5265.14] the laborers -[5265.14 --> 5266.24] in your vineyard -[5266.24 --> 5267.24] declaring -[5267.24 --> 5268.24] declaring -[5268.24 --> 5269.24] the word -[5269.24 --> 5270.56] of the Lord. -[5270.94 --> 5271.24] Behold -[5271.24 --> 5273.24] he comes -[5273.24 --> 5274.14] crying -[5274.14 --> 5275.62] on the clouds -[5275.62 --> 5277.10] shining like -[5277.10 --> 5278.04] the sun -[5278.04 --> 5279.56] at the trumpet -[5279.56 --> 5280.24] call -[5280.24 --> 5282.98] lift your voice -[5282.98 --> 5285.36] hear up to believe -[5285.36 --> 5286.34] and now -[5286.34 --> 5287.02] let's die -[5287.02 --> 5289.14] until salvation -[5289.14 --> 5290.24] comes. -[5290.24 --> 5295.64] There is no God -[5295.64 --> 5296.94] like Jehovah -[5296.94 --> 5298.44] there is no God -[5298.44 --> 5299.54] like Jehovah -[5299.54 --> 5301.40] there is no God -[5301.40 --> 5302.00] like Jehovah -[5302.00 --> 5303.44] there is no God -[5303.44 --> 5304.46] like Jehovah -[5304.46 --> 5305.96] there is no God -[5305.96 --> 5306.96] like Jehovah -[5306.96 --> 5308.38] there is no God -[5308.38 --> 5309.46] like Jehovah -[5309.46 --> 5311.32] behold -[5311.32 --> 5312.94] he comes -[5312.94 --> 5315.22] shining on the clouds -[5315.22 --> 5317.54] shining like the sun -[5317.54 --> 5319.10] at the trumpet -[5319.10 --> 5320.00] call -[5320.00 --> 5322.40] lift your voice -[5322.40 --> 5324.78] hear up to believe -[5324.78 --> 5325.78] and now -[5325.78 --> 5327.10] on science hill -[5327.10 --> 5328.50] salvation -[5328.50 --> 5329.78] comes -[5329.78 --> 5330.78] behold -[5330.78 --> 5332.34] he comes -[5332.34 --> 5334.68] riding on the clouds -[5334.68 --> 5337.00] shining like the sun -[5337.00 --> 5338.44] at the trumpet -[5338.44 --> 5339.64] call -[5339.64 --> 5341.74] lift your voice -[5341.74 --> 5343.84] it's year up to believe -[5343.84 --> 5345.04] and now -[5345.04 --> 5346.32] on science hill -[5346.32 --> 5347.68] salvation -[5347.68 --> 5349.08] comes -[5349.08 --> 5349.92] down -[5349.92 --> 5351.36] on science hill -[5351.36 --> 5353.08] salvation -[5353.08 --> 5355.08] comes -[5355.08 --> 5356.26] comes -[5356.26 --> 5358.90] un..., -[5361.90 --> 5362.08] and -[5362.08 --> 5363.26] he -[5363.26 --> 5363.54] goes -[5363.54 --> 5393.52] Thank you. -[5393.54 --> 5423.52] Thank you. -[5423.54 --> 5453.52] Thank you. -[5453.54 --> 5455.54] Thank you. -[5483.54 --> 5485.54] Thank you. -[5513.54 --> 5515.54] Thank you. diff --git a/Exiles in a Pagan Land - Prepared and Gentle October 31, 2021_summary.txt b/Exiles in a Pagan Land - Prepared and Gentle October 31, 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index cd694a0511afb4b3e9e82b946736b5b524f83f02..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Exiles in a Pagan Land - Prepared and Gentle October 31, 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,124 +0,0 @@ -• Fighting internal struggles and negative thoughts -• Referring to a biblical story (city on a green piece, cross) -• Themes of surrender, letting go, and being held by God -• Emphasis on not being alone and God's presence in times of struggle -• Reference to the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ -• Introduction to a worship service with announcements and explanations -• Meeting in a small group to discuss care groups and hosting -• Reformation Day and its significance, marked on October 31st -• Martin Luther's posting of the 95 theses against the Roman Catholic Church -• Key principles of the Reformation: sola scriptura, justification by faith alone, and the material principle -• Worship service planned with Reformation themes in mind -• Classic songs and doctrines reinterpreted for a new setting -• Reference to a movie or person named Trevor -• Discussion of faithfulness, mercy, and God's goodness -• Repetition of phrases such as "Great is your faithfulness" and "God is good" -• Theme of Christ being one's hope in life and death -• Discussion of the love of Christ and its presence in believers' lives -• Reference to an offering for budget purposes -• Financial need to support church ministries and programs -• Importance of giving generously and sacrificially during the last two months of the year -• Reference to 2 Corinthians 9:7 about cheerful giving -• Introduction of a guest, Hank, who is shy but wants to meet the kids -• Interaction with kids from the church, asking them about their interests and activities -• Review of previous week's activities -• Introduction to Abraham and his son in the day's lesson -• Hank's absence from children's worship for four months -• Discovery of a rock collection in the hole Hank dug -• Explanation of Reformation Day and gratitude for church and Bible -• The group prays for God's presence and guidance -• They pray for the church family to learn about the Bible and its impact on their lives -• A children's blessing is given, followed by a goodbye to Hank the Hound puppet -• A church family prayer is led, focusing on praising God, seeking His glory, and being used as answers to prayers -• The group prays for transformation through the Holy Spirit and draws closer to God in His presence. -• Restoration of relationships -• Praying for broken places and people in life -• Requesting gospel healing and reconciliation -• Seeking humility and willingness to have deep conversations -• Understanding and coming to a new understanding of God's actions -• Salvation through faith alone in Christ -• Prayer for those who don't know God or are searching for something more -• Praying for peace and calm in places affected by turmoil and war -• Asking God to bring strength, food, and rain to areas experiencing famine and drought -• Requesting wisdom and integrity from global leaders addressing climate change -• Seeking a bigger response to the challenges facing humanity, accompanied by awareness of what needs to be done -• Modeling responsible stewardship as Christians -• Continuing in prayer for those dealing with health issues, including COVID-19 and other concerns -• Praying for healing for those in need -• Offering comfort and compassion to those mourning or struggling with anxiety -• Asking God to be near to those experiencing ongoing health concerns -• Prayer for protection and peace during a community event -• Discussion of audio issues with the live stream -• Announcement of continuing a series in 1st Peter and doing things differently that morning -• Saving the reading of the text from 1st Peter until later in the service -• Introduction to the book of 1st Peter, chapter 3 -• The context in which Peter was writing: early Christian communities in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia (modern-day Turkey) -• Peter's audience: a group of Christians who were converts from Judaism in the 40s-50s AD -• Geographic location: modern-day Turkey -• Peter's message to the churches: they are elect exiles -• The apostle Paul wrote letters to various churches, including Ephesians, Galatians, and Colossians. -• These churches are located in the same region as the church being addressed in the text. -• Paul spent most of his missionary journeys in this region except for one journey to Rome. -• Paul is near the end of his life when he writes a second letter to Timothy, who is in Ephesus. -• The situation with the churches in the region is dire, as everyone has deserted them and they are facing hardship and persecution. -• Blending in with one's culture can be safer than standing out -• Early Christians were leaving their faith due to hardship and false teachers -• Rome was actively trying to colonize and bring regions under its control -• History is often thought of as a static time, but it is actually more dynamic -• Many people think of history or scripture as being "written in stone", rather than evolving over time -• The western part of the world has different rules and norms than Asia and Bithynia. -• These regions have been Romanized, with Rome taking control in 133 BC and Augustus making Galatia a province in 62 AD. -• Pontus was also brought under full Roman colonial control by Polman II, who later abdicated. -• The Roman Parthian Wars occurred from 53 BC to 217 AD, featuring conflicts that changed borders, names, and boundaries. -• Global conflicts and wars -• Christian attempts to adapt to changing world -• Cultural clashes and imperialism -• Rewriting of histories -• Parallels drawn with past events (WWII, Cold War) -• Red Scare and communist infiltration fears in the 1950s -• Ideological threat of communism and nuclear destruction -• Reciting the Pledge of Allegiance -• Practicing duck and cover drills in Canada during the Cold War era -• Development of a new national flag in 1965 -• Publication of a Civil Defense Evacuation and Survival Plan pamphlet for the Greater Vancouver area -• Unifying around shared identity and allegiance in times of war or cultural clash -• Peter's letter to elect exiles, emphasizing their status as God's chosen people -• Cultural identity and belonging in Pontus, Galatia, Bithynia -• Peter's message of a third way between Romanization and traditional ways -• Contemporary culture's emphasis on individualism and self-creation -• The secularization and disenchantment of the world -• The rise of new spirituality and interest in non-traditional practices (crystals, star charts, rituals, hallucinogenic drugs) -• Critique of modern institutions and search for meaning beyond traditional religion -• Hallucinogenic drugs becoming accepted as medicine -• New generation of spirituality and naturalism emerging -• Cultural trend towards progressive ideology vs counter-trend of alt-right and social conservatives -• Christians caught in the middle with progressive Christianity vs conservative Christianity co-opted by nationalism and white supremacy -• Call to choose between new way or old way, with Peter's message for a "third way" that is uniquely Christian -• The importance of seeking peace and pursuing it -• God's favor towards the righteous and his attention to their prayers -• Warning against evil and its consequences -• Encouragement to do good and suffer for what is right -• Living in harmony with others as believers, being like-minded and sympathetic -• Love one another, treating each other as brothers and sisters in Christ -• The importance of treating each other with compassion and being well-disposed towards one another -• Peter's emphasis on authentic humility, not thinking less of oneself but putting others first -• Jesus Christ as an example of true compassion, selflessness, and generosity in relationships -• The impact of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection on changing the way we interact with each other and the world around us -• The blessing that comes from suffering for doing good and standing up for one's faith despite negative reactions or accusations. -• Revere Christ as Lord in your hearts -• Be prepared to give an answer for the hope you have -• Do it with gentleness and respect -• There is a "third way" in the face of cultural identity wars, being a Christian who does not fit into left or right, progressive or conservative categories -• Be like Jesus in the world without fear -• Christ is an example of suffering for good and evil -• God's word says believers are beloved of God, elect exiles, foreigners, and strangers -• Do not be afraid to stand out from the pagan world and live a life that reflects being loved by God -• Gloria sung multiple times -• Discussion of the Reformation's legacy on church singing and unity/divisions -• Recitation of the Apostles' Creed to profess shared faith -• Blessing from God for attendees to receive protection, support, and guidance -• Declaration of belonging to Christ in life and death -• Recognition of God's sovereignty over one's life, including hair falling from their head -• Assurance that even in desperation, all things work together for salvation -• Acknowledgement of not being one's own, but belonging body and soul to God -• Expression of gratitude ("Thank you") repeated multiple times \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Exiles in a Pagan Land - Prepared and Gentle October 31, 2021_transcript.txt b/Exiles in a Pagan Land - Prepared and Gentle October 31, 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b33a12eac6865940d4e867c18f994fa6856c1c39..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Exiles in a Pagan Land - Prepared and Gentle October 31, 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2526 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 16.16] This is how we fight our bad. -[30.00 --> 59.98] This is how we fight our bad. -[60.00 --> 89.98] This is how we fight our bad. -[90.00 --> 119.98] This is how we fight our bad. -[119.98 --> 149.96] This is how we fight our bad. -[149.96 --> 179.94] This is how we fight our bad. -[179.94 --> 181.94] This is how we fight our bad. -[181.94 --> 185.94] This is how we fight our bad. -[185.94 --> 189.94] This is how we fight our bad. -[189.94 --> 199.94] This is how we fight our bad. -[199.94 --> 209.94] This is how we fight our bad. -[209.94 --> 211.94] This is how we fight our bad. -[211.94 --> 221.94] This is how we fight our bad. -[221.94 --> 223.94] This is how we fight our bad. -[223.94 --> 233.94] This is how we fight our bad. -[233.94 --> 235.94] This is how we fight our bad. -[235.94 --> 237.94] This is how we fight our bad. -[237.94 --> 247.94] This is how we fight our bad. -[247.94 --> 249.94] Oh my God. -[249.94 --> 251.94] This is how we fight our bad. -[251.94 --> 278.94] I'm going to go across the sea to a city with one king, a city on a green piece, a city on a green piece, a city on a green piece, a city on a green piece, a city on a green piece. -[281.94 --> 293.94] If we got a star somewhere, why not here? If we got a star sometime, why not now? -[311.94 --> 318.94] I'm going to go across the sea. -[318.94 --> 323.94] Hold it all together, everybody needs you strong. -[323.94 --> 329.94] But life hits you out of nowhere and barely leaves you holding on. -[329.94 --> 340.94] And when you're tired of fighting, chained by your control, there's freedom in surrender. -[340.94 --> 343.94] Lay it down and let it go. -[343.94 --> 349.94] So when you're on your knees, an answer seems so far away. -[349.94 --> 355.94] You're not alone, stop holding on and just be held. -[355.94 --> 362.94] Your world's not falling apart, it's falling into place. -[362.94 --> 368.94] I'm on the throne, stop holding on and just be held. -[368.94 --> 374.94] Just be held. -[374.94 --> 387.94] If your eyes are on the storm, you wonder if I love you still. -[387.94 --> 393.94] But if your eyes are on the cross, you know I always have and I always will. -[393.94 --> 408.94] You're not alone, you're not alone, you're not alone. -[408.94 --> 420.94] You're not alone, stop holding on and just be held. -[420.94 --> 425.94] Your world's not falling apart, it's falling into place. -[425.94 --> 431.94] I'm on the throne, stop holding on and just be held. -[431.94 --> 437.94] Just be held. -[437.94 --> 444.94] Just be held. -[444.94 --> 448.94] Lift your hands, lift your eyes. -[448.94 --> 451.94] In the storm is where you'll find me. -[451.94 --> 454.94] And where you are, I'll hold your heart. -[454.94 --> 457.94] I'll hold your heart. -[457.94 --> 460.94] Come to me, find your rest. -[460.94 --> 466.94] In the arms of the God who won't let go. -[466.94 --> 467.94] You're not alone, you're not alone. -[467.94 --> 479.94] You're not alone, stop holding on and just be held. -[479.94 --> 484.94] Your world's not falling apart, it's falling into place. -[484.94 --> 489.94] I'm on the throne, stop holding on and just be held. -[489.94 --> 492.94] Stop holding on and just be held. -[492.94 --> 494.94] Just be held. -[494.94 --> 495.94] Just be held. -[495.94 --> 509.94] Just be held. -[509.94 --> 511.94] Just be held. -[511.94 --> 513.08] The sun walked hard. -[541.94 --> 547.52] The Savior of the world was fallen -[547.52 --> 551.56] His body on the cross -[551.56 --> 555.16] His blood poured out for us -[555.16 --> 560.82] The weight of every curse upon Him -[571.94 --> 577.92] One final breath He gave -[577.92 --> 580.90] As heaven looked away -[580.90 --> 587.04] The Son of God was laid in darkness -[587.04 --> 590.54] A battle in the grave -[590.54 --> 593.38] The war on death is -[601.94 --> 627.20] Good morning, how are we doing? -[627.20 --> 633.40] All right, we're going to let people continue filtering in -[633.40 --> 634.60] There's lots of room up front -[634.60 --> 637.68] So don't hesitate to make your way in here -[637.68 --> 640.78] My name is Chris, I'm one of the pastors here -[640.78 --> 643.06] And I want to welcome you to our worship this morning -[643.06 --> 644.44] Especially if you're visiting with us -[644.44 --> 646.02] Either in person or online -[646.02 --> 648.12] Thank you for coming and checking us out -[648.12 --> 650.06] Please don't hesitate to grab myself -[650.06 --> 652.38] Or someone else you see with a name tag -[652.38 --> 653.60] After the service -[653.60 --> 655.46] And we can answer some of your questions -[655.46 --> 656.82] And connect with you in that way -[656.82 --> 659.16] Before we begin this morning -[659.16 --> 660.42] There are just a couple announcements -[660.42 --> 662.12] And then a brief explanation -[662.12 --> 668.44] First of all, there is no HCBC youth education tonight -[668.44 --> 671.56] That's been rescheduled to next week, Sunday evening -[671.56 --> 674.70] Parents and youth, you've got an email about that -[674.70 --> 676.76] But in case you missed it, that's for you -[676.76 --> 680.64] Also, Perry Dasiak's care group -[680.64 --> 683.60] Is going to meet after service today -[683.60 --> 684.96] In the multi-purpose room -[684.96 --> 685.86] Which is just down there -[685.86 --> 687.18] So if you've connected with Perry -[687.18 --> 688.52] Or been connected to Perry -[688.52 --> 690.30] In that small group -[690.30 --> 691.00] You're going to have a meeting -[691.00 --> 692.88] Just to get that started and rolling -[692.88 --> 694.90] And so please head down to there -[694.90 --> 698.04] If you are interested in joining a care group -[698.04 --> 699.58] Or hosting a care group -[699.58 --> 700.24] Facilitating -[700.24 --> 702.24] You can talk to Katie DeGeis -[702.24 --> 703.02] Or to myself -[703.02 --> 704.90] Or contact the office -[704.90 --> 706.34] And we'll put you in touch with Katie -[706.34 --> 708.86] And get that rolling as well -[708.86 --> 713.98] Finally, today is October 31st -[713.98 --> 715.20] And so who knows what that means -[715.20 --> 717.96] Halloween -[717.96 --> 719.06] Reformation Day -[719.06 --> 719.70] Thank you -[719.70 --> 722.16] That's the one I was looking for -[722.16 --> 724.60] That's my wife, guys -[724.60 --> 726.42] She knows -[726.42 --> 729.32] So today is in fact Halloween -[729.32 --> 731.76] And for us here in church -[731.76 --> 733.08] It is Reformation Day -[733.08 --> 737.46] Now, that may not mean much to many of you -[737.46 --> 742.90] But Reformation Day is the day on which Martin Luther -[742.90 --> 748.96] Augustinian monk in the 15th century, 16th century -[748.96 --> 753.68] Posted 95 theses or 95 points of protest -[753.68 --> 755.88] Against the Roman Catholic Church -[755.88 --> 759.24] And what started the Protestant church -[759.24 --> 761.28] And so that was in 1517 -[761.28 --> 765.10] We mark that day every year -[765.10 --> 769.28] As a reminder of where we have come -[769.28 --> 771.70] And part of our worship today -[771.70 --> 777.80] Has been planned with that remembering in mind -[777.80 --> 783.04] And so we are going to hear some themes in our worship and the like -[783.04 --> 785.20] That come straight out of the Reformation -[785.20 --> 788.62] And so Reformation really occurred around -[788.62 --> 793.72] What's called the formal principle of the Reformation -[793.72 --> 796.66] Which is the Latin phrase sola scriptura -[796.66 --> 798.50] Which means by scripture alone -[798.50 --> 805.66] And so scripture, the Bible, is the only authoritative source of divine revelation for life and faith -[805.66 --> 810.22] And then the material principle coming out of that idea -[810.22 --> 815.28] Is that justification, salvation, how we are made right with God -[815.28 --> 821.02] Is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, to the glory of God alone -[821.02 --> 828.46] And so those ideas you will hear reverberating throughout our worship this morning -[828.46 --> 831.74] And so keep your ears and your hearts attuned to those principles -[831.74 --> 837.06] Part of that will be applying this idea that the old is new -[837.06 --> 839.26] Which is a Reformation principle -[839.26 --> 844.08] And so we will hear some and sing some classic songs with a bit of a new twist -[844.08 --> 847.26] Or we'll take some classic ideas and doctrines -[847.26 --> 849.72] Something like the Heidelberg Catechism, for instance -[849.72 --> 853.26] And put that to a new setting and arrangement -[853.26 --> 857.80] And so we're going to live the principles of Reformation in our worship together today -[857.80 --> 859.50] And so to do that -[859.50 --> 861.08] Let's stand -[861.08 --> 863.96] And we can be welcomed into God's presence -[863.96 --> 865.28] And so if you are here at home -[865.28 --> 866.06] I encourage you to -[866.06 --> 867.36] Here or at home -[867.36 --> 868.40] I encourage you to -[868.40 --> 871.14] Receive the greeting of our God -[871.14 --> 873.46] Grace -[873.46 --> 874.90] Mercy -[874.90 --> 876.34] And peace to you -[876.34 --> 877.62] From God our Father -[877.62 --> 878.74] From the Lord Jesus Christ -[878.74 --> 879.36] His Son -[879.36 --> 880.50] And our Savior -[880.50 --> 882.56] Through the presence and power -[882.56 --> 884.10] Of the Holy Spirit -[884.10 --> 885.42] Amen -[885.42 --> 887.02] Let's worship God together -[910.50 --> 918.38] Great is thy faithfulness -[918.38 --> 921.26] O God my Father -[921.26 --> 928.98] There is no shadow of turning with thee -[928.98 --> 934.58] Though changest not thy compassions -[934.58 --> 936.66] They fail not -[936.66 --> 939.82] As thou hast been -[939.82 --> 944.26] Thou forever will be -[944.26 --> 953.82] Summer and winter -[953.82 --> 957.86] And springtime and harvest -[957.86 --> 960.66] Sun, moon and stars -[960.66 --> 964.66] In their courses above -[964.66 --> 969.10] Join with all nature -[969.10 --> 972.54] In manifold witness -[972.54 --> 976.54] To thy great faithfulness -[976.54 --> 980.54] Mercy and love -[980.54 --> 986.00] Beginning to end -[986.00 --> 989.78] My life in your hands -[989.78 --> 997.00] Great, great is your faithfulness -[997.00 --> 1000.34] You never let go -[1000.34 --> 1003.90] This one thing I know -[1003.90 --> 1011.90] Great, great is your faithfulness -[1011.90 --> 1016.34] Pardon for sin -[1016.34 --> 1020.34] And a peace that endureth -[1020.34 --> 1024.44] Thine old dear presence -[1024.44 --> 1028.08] To cheer and to guide -[1028.08 --> 1030.84] Strength for today -[1030.84 --> 1035.12] And bright hope for tomorrow -[1035.12 --> 1035.46] As well -[1035.46 --> 1038.86] Passing -[1038.86 --> 1039.18] the two -[1039.18 --> 1040.24] канале -[1040.24 --> 1041.00] בת -[1041.00 --> 1043.60] movie -[1043.60 --> 1045.24] Trevor -[1045.24 --> 1046.30] Happy зло -[1046.30 --> 1047.30] hue -[1047.30 --> 1047.54] Thank you -[1047.54 --> 1047.64] Lord -[1047.64 --> 1061.28] Tor -[1061.28 --> 1065.04] no it's one thing i know -[1066.56 --> 1073.04] great great is your faithfulness -[1073.04 --> 1079.04] oh great great is your faithfulness -[1079.04 --> 1093.04] great is thy faithfulness -[1093.04 --> 1101.04] morning by morning new mercies i see -[1101.04 --> 1107.04] all i have needed -[1109.04 --> 1123.04] great is -[1123.04 --> 1137.04] in your hands -[1139.04 --> 1143.04] great is -[1143.04 --> 1147.04] your faithfulness -[1147.04 --> 1151.04] beginning to end -[1151.04 --> 1165.04] great is -[1165.04 --> 1175.04] great is your faithfulness -[1175.04 --> 1185.04] great is your faithfulness -[1185.04 --> 1215.04] -[1215.04 --> 1229.04] and yours forever -[1229.04 --> 1243.04] in christ -[1243.04 --> 1257.04] is -[1257.04 --> 1271.04] is -[1271.04 --> 1285.04] is -[1285.04 --> 1299.04] is -[1299.04 --> 1313.04] is -[1313.04 --> 1315.04] is -[1315.04 --> 1327.04] is -[1327.04 --> 1329.04] is -[1329.04 --> 1331.04] is -[1331.04 --> 1335.04] is -[1335.04 --> 1339.04] is -[1339.04 --> 1341.04] is -[1341.04 --> 1355.04] is -[1355.04 --> 1357.04] is -[1357.04 --> 1359.04] is -[1359.04 --> 1361.04] is -[1361.04 --> 1363.04] is -[1363.04 --> 1365.04] is -[1365.04 --> 1367.04] is -[1367.04 --> 1369.04] is -[1369.04 --> 1371.04] is -[1371.04 --> 1385.04] is -[1385.04 --> 1387.04] is -[1387.04 --> 1389.04] is -[1389.04 --> 1391.04] is -[1391.04 --> 1395.04] is -[1395.04 --> 1397.04] is -[1397.04 --> 1399.04] is -[1399.04 --> 1401.04] is -[1401.04 --> 1403.04] is -[1403.04 --> 1405.04] is -[1405.04 --> 1419.04] is -[1419.04 --> 1421.04] is -[1421.04 --> 1423.04] is -[1423.04 --> 1425.04] is -[1425.04 --> 1427.04] is -[1427.04 --> 1429.04] is -[1429.04 --> 1431.04] is -[1431.04 --> 1433.04] is -[1433.04 --> 1435.04] is -[1435.04 --> 1449.04] is -[1449.04 --> 1451.04] is -[1451.04 --> 1453.04] is -[1453.04 --> 1455.04] is -[1455.04 --> 1469.04] is -[1469.04 --> 1471.04] is -[1471.04 --> 1487.04] is -[1487.04 --> 1489.04] is -[1489.04 --> 1491.04] is -[1491.04 --> 1493.04] is -[1493.04 --> 1508.58] Not my own. -[1523.04 --> 1553.02] Not my own. -[1553.04 --> 1583.02] Not my own. -[1583.04 --> 1588.04] What is our only confidence? -[1589.30 --> 1593.14] That our souls belong to me. -[1593.64 --> 1598.04] Who holds our days within his hand? -[1599.00 --> 1603.04] What comes upon us from his command? -[1603.04 --> 1608.04] And what will keep us to the end? -[1609.04 --> 1614.04] The love of Christ in which we stand. -[1614.04 --> 1620.04] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[1620.04 --> 1626.04] Our hope's faith eternal. -[1626.04 --> 1630.04] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[1631.04 --> 1634.04] Now and ever we confess. -[1635.04 --> 1639.04] Christ our hope in life and death. -[1639.04 --> 1651.14] What truth can calm the troubled soul? -[1651.14 --> 1653.14] God is good. -[1653.14 --> 1655.14] God is good. -[1655.14 --> 1656.14] God is good. -[1656.14 --> 1661.14] Where is his grace and goodness known? -[1661.14 --> 1665.14] The love of our great redeemer's love. -[1665.14 --> 1670.14] Who holds our faith when fears arise? -[1670.14 --> 1675.14] Who stands above the stormy child? -[1675.14 --> 1680.14] Who sends the waves that bring us night? -[1680.14 --> 1685.14] Until the shore of the rock of Christ. -[1685.14 --> 1686.14] God is good. -[1686.14 --> 1688.14] God is good. -[1688.14 --> 1690.14] God is good. -[1690.14 --> 1699.82] Hallelujah, our hope springs eternal, oh sing -[1699.82 --> 1706.84] Hallelujah, now and ever we confess -[1706.84 --> 1711.88] Christ our hope in life and death -[1711.88 --> 1723.00] Unto the grave what will we see -[1723.00 --> 1728.10] Christ he lives, Christ he lives -[1728.10 --> 1733.26] And what reward will heaven bring -[1733.26 --> 1737.72] Everlasting life within -[1737.72 --> 1742.72] There we will rise to thee for more -[1743.26 --> 1747.98] Then sin and death will be destroyed -[1747.98 --> 1752.94] And we will feast in endless joy -[1752.94 --> 1758.72] When Christ is ours forevermore -[1758.72 --> 1764.72] Oh sing hallelujah -[1764.72 --> 1771.26] Our hope springs eternal, oh sing -[1771.26 --> 1777.72] Hallelujah, now and ever we confess -[1777.72 --> 1781.72] Christ our hope in life and death -[1781.72 --> 1786.86] Oh sing hallelujah -[1786.86 --> 1793.40] Our hope springs eternal, oh sing -[1793.40 --> 1799.86] Hallelujah, now and ever we confess -[1799.86 --> 1804.40] Christ our hope in life and death -[1804.40 --> 1808.60] Now and ever we confess -[1808.60 --> 1812.86] Christ our hope in life and death -[1812.86 --> 1842.46] Today's offering is for budget only -[1842.46 --> 1849.00] This allows us to focus on the need to support our church ministries, programs, staff -[1849.00 --> 1852.26] Building, maintenance, missions and more -[1852.26 --> 1856.34] Now that our ministries and programs have resumed -[1856.34 --> 1860.64] It is also more important than ever to give our tithes -[1860.64 --> 1864.30] There are only two months until the end of the year -[1864.30 --> 1867.40] And unfortunately we are running a deficit -[1867.40 --> 1872.00] Please consider giving generously and sacrificially -[1872.00 --> 1874.50] 2 Corinthians 9, 7 -[1874.50 --> 1879.00] Each should give what you have decided in your heart to give -[1879.00 --> 1882.14] Not reluctantly or under compulsion -[1882.14 --> 1884.44] For God loves a cheerful giver -[1884.44 --> 1905.94] I am standing beneath your way -[1905.94 --> 1912.48] I am resting in your shelter -[1912.48 --> 1919.82] Your great faithfulness has been my shield -[1919.82 --> 1924.36] And it makes me want to say -[1924.36 --> 1931.20] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[1931.20 --> 1937.50] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[1937.50 --> 1942.20] I will bless your holy name -[1942.20 --> 1945.04] For all my days -[1945.04 --> 1952.04] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[1952.04 --> 1958.58] I sing praises to your name -[1958.58 --> 1960.58] I sing praises to your name -[1960.58 --> 1962.58] O Lord -[1962.58 --> 1968.58] For you daily bear my burdens -[1968.58 --> 1974.58] Your great faithfulness is my reward -[1974.58 --> 1977.12] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[1977.12 --> 1980.12] And it makes me want to say -[1980.12 --> 1986.12] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[1986.12 --> 1993.12] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[1993.12 --> 1998.12] I will bless your holy name -[1998.12 --> 2001.12] For all my days -[2001.12 --> 2006.66] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[2006.66 --> 2008.66] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[2008.66 --> 2012.66] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[2012.66 --> 2019.66] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[2019.66 --> 2024.66] I will bless your holy name -[2024.66 --> 2027.92] For all my days -[2027.92 --> 2033.46] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[2033.46 --> 2049.46] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[2049.46 --> 2052.08] I would love to invite all the kids to come forward -[2052.08 --> 2052.68] Hi Isla -[2052.68 --> 2054.26] All the kids to come forward -[2054.26 --> 2056.58] Join me on the floor here -[2056.58 --> 2059.68] For Kids Corner -[2059.68 --> 2067.62] Good morning everyone -[2067.62 --> 2068.32] Good morning -[2068.32 --> 2070.28] Thanks Zoe -[2070.28 --> 2071.54] That was nice -[2071.54 --> 2073.12] Good morning everyone else -[2073.12 --> 2074.58] There we go -[2074.58 --> 2075.06] That's nice -[2075.06 --> 2076.84] I have a friend with me today -[2076.84 --> 2077.68] Did I bring him out? -[2078.32 --> 2078.54] Yeah -[2078.54 --> 2078.76] Yeah? -[2078.86 --> 2079.44] Is that a good idea? -[2080.16 --> 2081.02] Alright he's sitting behind me -[2081.02 --> 2081.96] I'm not sitting on him -[2081.96 --> 2083.66] I'm sitting in front of him -[2083.66 --> 2085.42] Here he is -[2085.42 --> 2086.94] Can you guys say hi to him -[2086.94 --> 2087.52] When he comes out? -[2087.52 --> 2088.04] He's a little bit shy -[2088.04 --> 2088.98] He's never done this -[2088.98 --> 2091.18] With you kids sitting in front of me before -[2091.18 --> 2092.76] That's right -[2092.76 --> 2094.84] So he's only used to talking to the camera -[2094.84 --> 2096.78] So he's a little nervous -[2096.78 --> 2098.34] So you have to be really nice -[2098.34 --> 2099.98] And say hi when he comes out -[2099.98 --> 2100.56] Okay are you ready? -[2100.56 --> 2101.82] Okay here he comes -[2101.82 --> 2102.94] Alright Hank -[2102.94 --> 2103.28] Here we go -[2103.28 --> 2103.56] You ready? -[2103.88 --> 2104.20] Uh huh -[2104.20 --> 2110.36] Who are they? -[2110.68 --> 2112.04] These are the kids from our church -[2112.04 --> 2115.10] Hi kids -[2115.10 --> 2116.06] Hi -[2116.06 --> 2117.26] Oh -[2117.26 --> 2118.60] They seem nice -[2118.60 --> 2119.30] They are very nice -[2119.30 --> 2120.06] They're nice kids -[2120.06 --> 2120.56] They're here -[2120.56 --> 2121.52] They love to see you -[2121.52 --> 2122.42] They're excited to meet you -[2122.42 --> 2123.08] Hmm -[2123.08 --> 2124.62] How's everyone doing? -[2125.10 --> 2125.58] Good -[2125.58 --> 2126.34] Good -[2126.34 --> 2129.28] What have you been busy with lately? -[2129.64 --> 2130.16] Halloween -[2130.16 --> 2131.18] Halloween? -[2131.66 --> 2132.38] What's that? -[2132.86 --> 2135.34] It's a Halloween candy -[2135.34 --> 2136.24] Candy? -[2137.14 --> 2137.74] Hmm -[2137.74 --> 2138.82] I don't really -[2138.82 --> 2139.88] Do you like candy? -[2140.08 --> 2140.98] Do you get other things? -[2140.98 --> 2144.98] Toys -[2144.98 --> 2146.70] And costumes -[2146.70 --> 2148.08] Costumes? -[2148.50 --> 2150.06] Who's dressing up as a dog? -[2152.98 --> 2153.54] What? -[2153.66 --> 2155.72] No one's dressing up as a dog? -[2156.14 --> 2157.82] I'm just a super girl -[2157.82 --> 2158.40] Oh -[2158.40 --> 2160.44] Oh -[2160.44 --> 2161.88] It sounds very exciting -[2161.88 --> 2163.32] Now I've got a question -[2163.32 --> 2166.98] What have you kids been doing in children's worship time? -[2167.30 --> 2167.66] Do you remember? -[2167.76 --> 2169.00] What was your story last week? -[2169.00 --> 2171.32] Yeah Zoe you were first -[2171.32 --> 2171.88] Climbing -[2171.88 --> 2173.00] Climbing -[2173.00 --> 2173.42] Okay -[2173.42 --> 2174.32] Building a tower -[2174.32 --> 2175.60] Building a tower -[2175.60 --> 2176.20] Oh -[2176.20 --> 2177.24] Do you remember too Haley? -[2177.92 --> 2179.94] Did we get introduced to someone last week? -[2181.14 --> 2181.38] No -[2181.38 --> 2183.94] No -[2183.94 --> 2185.86] All the way up -[2185.86 --> 2187.28] Oh man -[2187.28 --> 2188.24] Was that good? -[2188.58 --> 2189.16] Was that good? -[2189.54 --> 2189.80] No -[2189.80 --> 2190.66] I forgot about you Hank -[2190.66 --> 2193.78] That's not nice -[2193.78 --> 2196.56] Do you -[2196.56 --> 2198.10] Do we know what we're going to learn about today? -[2198.24 --> 2198.48] What? -[2198.80 --> 2199.32] Well you might -[2199.32 --> 2200.18] You'll have to stay here I think -[2200.18 --> 2200.66] Aww -[2200.66 --> 2202.92] What do you think we're going to learn about today? -[2206.50 --> 2207.52] We're going to learn about -[2207.52 --> 2209.26] A man named Abraham -[2209.26 --> 2210.76] And his son today -[2210.76 --> 2211.92] That's what we're going to look at today -[2211.92 --> 2212.22] Okay -[2212.22 --> 2213.28] Does that sound good? -[2213.46 --> 2214.12] Does that sound good for you? -[2214.12 --> 2215.44] Does that sound good to you Hank? -[2215.54 --> 2215.86] Yeah -[2215.86 --> 2221.72] You did? -[2221.90 --> 2222.64] Was he sitting here? -[2222.68 --> 2223.38] He was very excited -[2223.38 --> 2224.72] Do you know what Hank's been busy? -[2224.80 --> 2226.18] So you guys have been in children's worship time -[2226.18 --> 2227.76] Hank do you want to tell them what you've been busy with? -[2228.02 --> 2228.50] Mm-hmm -[2228.50 --> 2230.02] Have we seen Hank? -[2230.14 --> 2230.96] It's been a little bit right? -[2231.02 --> 2231.66] It's been four months? -[2232.16 --> 2232.96] What have you been doing Hank? -[2233.44 --> 2234.98] I've been digging a hole -[2234.98 --> 2236.36] For four months? -[2236.58 --> 2236.86] Yep -[2236.86 --> 2238.38] Wow -[2238.38 --> 2240.42] And it got so deep -[2240.42 --> 2242.96] I found something so cool -[2242.96 --> 2243.96] Do you want to see it? -[2244.40 --> 2245.22] Yeah let's see it -[2245.22 --> 2245.64] Hank you ready? -[2245.84 --> 2246.24] Mm-hmm -[2246.24 --> 2255.64] Look at this rock -[2255.64 --> 2258.38] It's so cool -[2258.38 --> 2260.56] Here I'll take it out -[2260.56 --> 2261.48] Look -[2261.48 --> 2263.12] It's a rock -[2263.12 --> 2264.92] Have you ever seen anything like it? -[2265.60 --> 2268.98] It took me four months of digging to find this -[2268.98 --> 2272.96] A rock collection? -[2273.08 --> 2274.42] That sounds awesome -[2274.42 --> 2282.38] Oh -[2282.38 --> 2282.92] Stoops -[2282.92 --> 2284.68] Well we're going to hear more about rocks -[2284.68 --> 2286.34] Later too in this story -[2286.34 --> 2286.66] That's right -[2286.66 --> 2287.88] We're going to hear about rocks in the story -[2287.88 --> 2289.30] So last question -[2289.30 --> 2291.18] That's a puppet -[2291.18 --> 2293.90] Are you a puppet Hank? -[2294.04 --> 2295.16] I don't think so -[2295.16 --> 2297.72] If I was a puppet -[2297.72 --> 2298.70] Could I do this? -[2301.82 --> 2302.10] Boo -[2302.10 --> 2304.86] All right -[2304.86 --> 2306.68] We're -[2306.68 --> 2310.12] Maybe -[2310.12 --> 2311.66] It feels a little stuffed -[2311.66 --> 2313.22] All right -[2313.22 --> 2314.46] We are going to pray -[2314.46 --> 2315.12] And then we're going to go -[2315.12 --> 2315.84] Children's worship time -[2315.84 --> 2316.08] Okay -[2316.08 --> 2316.86] All right -[2316.86 --> 2317.58] So bow your heads -[2317.58 --> 2318.26] You too Hank -[2318.26 --> 2320.26] And then we're going to do -[2320.26 --> 2321.58] The children's blessing -[2321.58 --> 2322.20] And then we're going to go -[2322.20 --> 2322.40] Okay -[2322.40 --> 2322.92] So let's pray -[2322.92 --> 2323.64] Let's fold our hands -[2323.64 --> 2324.16] Close our eyes -[2324.16 --> 2324.74] Dear God -[2324.74 --> 2325.40] Thank you so much -[2325.40 --> 2326.42] That we could be in church today -[2326.42 --> 2327.98] Thank you for fun things -[2327.98 --> 2328.56] Like Halloween -[2328.56 --> 2329.72] For a day like today -[2329.72 --> 2330.82] Which is Reformation Day -[2330.82 --> 2331.32] Where we remember -[2331.32 --> 2332.26] What you have done -[2332.26 --> 2332.80] For the church -[2332.80 --> 2333.60] And we thank you -[2333.60 --> 2334.14] For the Bible -[2334.14 --> 2335.48] And the stories that we hear -[2335.48 --> 2336.76] And the story that we are going to hear today -[2336.76 --> 2337.34] In the back -[2337.34 --> 2337.92] And we just pray -[2337.92 --> 2338.96] That you'll be with us -[2338.96 --> 2339.60] As we learn that -[2339.60 --> 2340.70] Be with all the grown-ups -[2340.70 --> 2341.62] Here in the church too -[2341.62 --> 2343.86] As they learn about the Bible -[2343.86 --> 2345.06] And how it affects their lives -[2345.06 --> 2345.64] And we just pray -[2345.64 --> 2347.62] That this is a glorifying time to you -[2347.62 --> 2348.56] We pray this in your name -[2348.56 --> 2349.04] Amen -[2349.04 --> 2349.68] Amen -[2349.68 --> 2350.56] All right -[2350.56 --> 2351.12] Stand up -[2351.12 --> 2352.16] Church -[2352.16 --> 2352.64] You two -[2352.64 --> 2354.60] And we're going to do -[2354.60 --> 2355.68] The children's blessing -[2355.68 --> 2356.40] Remember what we say -[2356.40 --> 2357.68] All righty -[2357.68 --> 2358.52] We're going to say it together -[2358.52 --> 2361.50] The Lord be with you -[2361.50 --> 2363.42] Also with you -[2363.42 --> 2363.86] All righty -[2363.86 --> 2364.42] Have fun -[2364.42 --> 2365.26] Say bye to Hank -[2365.26 --> 2365.94] Bye -[2365.94 --> 2366.84] Bye -[2366.84 --> 2388.14] Ladies and gentlemen -[2388.14 --> 2389.78] That was definitely not a puppet -[2389.78 --> 2391.12] Puppet Hank the Hound -[2391.12 --> 2393.60] Live and in person -[2393.60 --> 2396.84] I'm going to lead you -[2396.84 --> 2399.62] In our church family prayer together -[2399.62 --> 2403.26] And as we do that -[2403.26 --> 2406.28] Just a reminder -[2406.28 --> 2408.24] That some of the things -[2408.24 --> 2410.66] That we pray generically for -[2410.66 --> 2413.24] You know the specifics of -[2413.24 --> 2414.64] And you know the individuals -[2414.64 --> 2417.08] Specifically involved in that -[2417.08 --> 2418.34] And so I want to encourage you -[2418.34 --> 2420.68] Not just in prayer together today -[2420.68 --> 2422.14] As we lift these people up -[2422.14 --> 2423.08] But throughout the week -[2423.08 --> 2425.10] Remember these circumstances -[2425.10 --> 2426.48] And situations in prayer -[2426.48 --> 2427.74] And then wonder also -[2427.74 --> 2430.10] How God might use you -[2430.10 --> 2431.42] To be the answer -[2431.42 --> 2432.70] To the prayer that we give today -[2432.70 --> 2434.52] Let's come to God -[2434.52 --> 2435.48] In prayer together -[2435.48 --> 2442.02] Heavenly Father -[2442.02 --> 2443.52] As we gather here -[2443.52 --> 2445.04] In your name -[2445.04 --> 2447.06] We gather because -[2447.06 --> 2448.52] You are most glorious -[2448.52 --> 2450.02] We gather because -[2450.02 --> 2451.28] You are most worthy -[2451.28 --> 2452.48] To be praised -[2452.48 --> 2453.72] We gather because -[2453.72 --> 2455.50] To you alone -[2455.50 --> 2457.34] Belongs all glory -[2457.34 --> 2458.26] Honor -[2458.26 --> 2459.30] And power -[2459.30 --> 2462.58] We come here -[2462.58 --> 2464.94] That we might behold -[2464.94 --> 2465.72] Your face -[2465.72 --> 2468.06] We come here -[2468.06 --> 2468.56] That we might -[2468.56 --> 2469.54] Be marked -[2469.54 --> 2470.88] By your glory -[2470.88 --> 2472.86] We come here -[2472.86 --> 2474.24] That standing in -[2474.24 --> 2475.34] Your radiance -[2475.34 --> 2476.24] Our hearts -[2476.24 --> 2477.68] Affections for you -[2477.68 --> 2478.60] Might be stirred -[2478.60 --> 2479.74] Our minds -[2479.74 --> 2479.78] Our minds -[2479.78 --> 2480.38] Might be -[2480.38 --> 2481.40] Transformed -[2481.40 --> 2482.28] As you work -[2482.28 --> 2483.82] In the Holy Spirit -[2483.82 --> 2485.44] And so Lord God -[2485.44 --> 2486.36] Draw us -[2486.36 --> 2486.96] Closer -[2486.96 --> 2488.18] To yourself -[2488.18 --> 2489.16] Today -[2489.16 --> 2492.14] We come into -[2492.14 --> 2492.88] Your presence -[2492.88 --> 2493.40] Lord God -[2493.40 --> 2494.60] Knowing that it is -[2494.60 --> 2495.72] By Christ -[2495.72 --> 2496.34] Alone -[2496.34 --> 2498.24] That we can -[2498.24 --> 2500.34] Find you -[2500.34 --> 2501.40] And call you -[2501.40 --> 2502.08] As father -[2502.08 --> 2503.16] That it is by -[2503.16 --> 2504.26] Jesus alone -[2504.26 --> 2505.20] In your grace -[2505.20 --> 2506.38] That we are -[2506.38 --> 2506.82] Found -[2506.82 --> 2507.64] By you -[2507.64 --> 2509.26] And restored -[2509.26 --> 2510.02] In relationship -[2510.02 --> 2512.24] And so Lord God -[2512.24 --> 2512.84] We marvel -[2512.84 --> 2513.66] At the majesty -[2513.66 --> 2514.48] Of the gospel -[2514.48 --> 2515.10] We marvel -[2515.10 --> 2515.78] At the privilege -[2515.78 --> 2516.34] Of coming -[2516.34 --> 2517.20] Into your presence -[2517.20 --> 2518.42] Of hearing it -[2518.42 --> 2518.98] Proclaimed -[2518.98 --> 2519.70] And we ask -[2519.70 --> 2520.28] That you would -[2520.28 --> 2521.54] Apply the gospel -[2521.54 --> 2522.28] Truths -[2522.28 --> 2523.28] Of your word -[2523.28 --> 2524.24] To our hearts -[2524.24 --> 2524.90] That we might -[2524.90 --> 2526.60] Go from this place -[2526.60 --> 2527.84] As your agents -[2527.84 --> 2529.16] Of mercy -[2529.16 --> 2530.10] And grace -[2530.10 --> 2530.72] In the world -[2530.72 --> 2531.90] As your ambassadors -[2531.90 --> 2533.32] Of reconciliation -[2533.32 --> 2537.62] God as ambassadors -[2537.62 --> 2538.64] Of reconciliation -[2538.64 --> 2539.48] We pray -[2539.48 --> 2540.22] That you would -[2540.22 --> 2541.40] Restore our -[2541.40 --> 2542.52] Relationships -[2542.52 --> 2545.00] We pray for those -[2545.00 --> 2546.76] Places -[2546.76 --> 2548.44] In our lives -[2548.44 --> 2550.18] That are broken -[2550.18 --> 2551.96] Those relationships -[2551.96 --> 2552.88] In our -[2552.88 --> 2553.84] Families -[2553.84 --> 2555.04] And friends -[2555.04 --> 2556.92] And colleagues -[2556.92 --> 2558.08] And co-workers -[2558.08 --> 2559.02] Those relationships -[2559.02 --> 2560.34] In our church -[2560.34 --> 2561.00] Family -[2561.00 --> 2562.86] That need -[2562.86 --> 2564.34] Your gospel -[2564.34 --> 2565.14] Healing -[2565.14 --> 2567.98] And so Lord God -[2567.98 --> 2568.46] We pray -[2568.46 --> 2569.76] For humility -[2569.76 --> 2572.40] And we pray -[2572.40 --> 2572.84] For -[2572.84 --> 2574.62] Willing spirits -[2574.62 --> 2576.04] To enter into -[2576.04 --> 2576.56] Deep -[2576.56 --> 2577.58] And real -[2577.58 --> 2578.94] Conversation -[2578.94 --> 2579.56] And life -[2579.56 --> 2579.92] Together -[2579.92 --> 2581.36] That we might -[2581.36 --> 2582.02] Understand -[2582.02 --> 2584.86] Not only -[2584.86 --> 2586.38] What we have -[2586.38 --> 2586.76] Done -[2586.76 --> 2587.74] But that we -[2587.74 --> 2588.38] Might come to -[2588.38 --> 2589.20] A new understanding -[2589.20 --> 2590.42] Into what you -[2590.42 --> 2590.98] Have done -[2590.98 --> 2591.94] That we might -[2591.94 --> 2592.70] Allow the gospel -[2592.70 --> 2593.38] To restore -[2593.38 --> 2594.88] Our relationships -[2594.88 --> 2595.66] Here -[2595.66 --> 2598.06] Father God -[2598.06 --> 2599.02] As we know -[2599.02 --> 2599.60] That it is -[2599.60 --> 2600.56] By grace alone -[2600.56 --> 2601.56] Through faith alone -[2601.56 --> 2602.48] In Christ alone -[2602.48 --> 2603.52] That we are saved -[2603.52 --> 2603.70] We -[2603.70 --> 2605.34] We want to pray -[2605.34 --> 2606.06] For those people -[2606.06 --> 2607.42] Who don't yet know you -[2607.42 --> 2608.40] Those people -[2608.40 --> 2609.12] In our lives -[2609.12 --> 2609.86] Who maybe -[2609.86 --> 2610.74] They are our sons -[2610.74 --> 2611.26] Our daughters -[2611.26 --> 2611.92] Maybe they are -[2611.92 --> 2612.50] Our parents -[2612.50 --> 2613.14] Maybe they are -[2613.14 --> 2613.72] Our friends -[2613.72 --> 2614.74] Or our co-workers -[2614.74 --> 2617.60] But for those -[2617.60 --> 2617.94] People -[2617.94 --> 2618.50] Lord God -[2618.50 --> 2619.06] Who are -[2619.06 --> 2623.42] Who are -[2623.42 --> 2623.84] Hungry -[2623.84 --> 2624.66] For something -[2624.66 --> 2626.22] But might not -[2626.22 --> 2627.02] Know what it is -[2627.02 --> 2628.74] For those people -[2628.74 --> 2629.14] Lord God -[2629.14 --> 2629.38] Whom -[2629.38 --> 2631.24] Whom we long -[2631.24 --> 2632.62] And whom we -[2632.62 --> 2634.12] Wish deeply -[2634.12 --> 2635.06] And prayerfully -[2635.06 --> 2636.26] Would come to -[2636.26 --> 2636.70] Know you -[2636.70 --> 2638.40] We pray for those -[2638.40 --> 2639.06] Situations -[2639.06 --> 2640.04] And circumstances -[2640.04 --> 2640.66] We pray -[2640.66 --> 2641.50] Lord God -[2641.50 --> 2642.04] For those who -[2642.04 --> 2643.50] Have grown up -[2643.50 --> 2644.32] In the church -[2644.32 --> 2646.52] That you -[2646.52 --> 2646.94] Would -[2646.94 --> 2650.26] You would -[2650.26 --> 2651.04] Call back -[2651.04 --> 2652.16] To fellowship -[2652.16 --> 2652.90] Those who have -[2652.90 --> 2653.54] Wandered away -[2653.54 --> 2655.40] We pray -[2655.40 --> 2656.08] Lord that you -[2656.08 --> 2656.34] Would -[2656.34 --> 2658.14] Draw those -[2658.14 --> 2659.26] People to -[2659.26 --> 2659.82] Yourself -[2659.82 --> 2660.58] And that if -[2660.58 --> 2661.18] It be your -[2661.18 --> 2661.66] Will you -[2661.66 --> 2662.14] Would use -[2662.14 --> 2663.08] Us in our -[2663.08 --> 2663.88] Conversations -[2663.88 --> 2664.60] In our -[2664.60 --> 2665.08] Prayers -[2665.08 --> 2665.46] In our -[2665.46 --> 2665.78] Life -[2665.78 --> 2666.20] Together -[2666.20 --> 2666.74] Following -[2666.74 --> 2667.96] Your example -[2667.96 --> 2670.26] Be the means -[2670.26 --> 2671.00] By which -[2671.00 --> 2671.84] People come -[2671.84 --> 2672.24] To know -[2672.24 --> 2672.52] You -[2672.52 --> 2676.08] God as we -[2676.08 --> 2676.76] Live and -[2676.76 --> 2677.80] Work in -[2677.80 --> 2679.10] This world -[2679.10 --> 2680.56] We know -[2680.56 --> 2680.94] That there -[2680.94 --> 2682.24] Are some -[2682.24 --> 2682.80] Struggles -[2682.80 --> 2683.72] Taking place -[2683.72 --> 2684.18] We know -[2684.18 --> 2684.50] That there -[2684.50 --> 2686.26] Are conflicts -[2686.26 --> 2686.80] That are -[2686.80 --> 2687.26] Happening -[2687.26 --> 2688.80] We pray -[2688.80 --> 2689.26] Lord God -[2689.26 --> 2689.56] That you -[2689.56 --> 2690.02] Would be -[2690.02 --> 2690.94] Present -[2690.94 --> 2691.64] And that -[2691.64 --> 2692.02] You would -[2692.02 --> 2692.40] Bring -[2692.40 --> 2693.28] Peace -[2693.28 --> 2695.68] And so -[2695.68 --> 2696.40] In places -[2696.40 --> 2697.02] Where there -[2697.02 --> 2698.26] Is turmoil -[2698.26 --> 2699.10] And war -[2699.10 --> 2699.62] We pray -[2699.62 --> 2700.04] That you -[2700.04 --> 2700.76] Would bring -[2700.76 --> 2701.58] Peace -[2701.58 --> 2702.26] In places -[2702.26 --> 2702.70] Where there -[2702.70 --> 2703.82] Is hunger -[2703.82 --> 2704.50] And famine -[2704.50 --> 2705.34] We pray -[2705.34 --> 2705.74] That you -[2705.74 --> 2707.34] Would bring -[2707.34 --> 2708.70] Strength -[2708.70 --> 2709.52] And you -[2709.52 --> 2710.00] Would bring -[2710.00 --> 2710.54] Food -[2710.54 --> 2711.16] We pray -[2711.16 --> 2711.50] That you -[2711.50 --> 2712.46] Would bring -[2712.46 --> 2713.10] Rain to -[2713.10 --> 2713.74] Those places -[2713.74 --> 2714.30] In the world -[2714.30 --> 2714.78] That need it -[2714.78 --> 2715.04] That you -[2715.04 --> 2715.48] Would bring -[2715.48 --> 2717.50] A recessing -[2717.50 --> 2718.06] Of flooding -[2718.06 --> 2718.80] To those places -[2718.80 --> 2719.34] In the world -[2719.34 --> 2719.94] That need that -[2719.94 --> 2720.56] We pray -[2720.56 --> 2721.06] Lord God -[2721.06 --> 2721.72] That in all -[2721.72 --> 2722.38] Of our -[2722.38 --> 2723.02] Needs -[2723.02 --> 2724.78] You would -[2724.78 --> 2725.28] Be at work -[2725.28 --> 2726.54] And that -[2726.54 --> 2726.80] We would -[2726.80 --> 2727.08] Trust -[2727.08 --> 2727.54] That you -[2727.54 --> 2727.88] Are -[2727.88 --> 2728.82] At work -[2728.82 --> 2731.24] Father we -[2731.24 --> 2731.46] Want to -[2731.46 --> 2731.88] Pray for -[2731.88 --> 2732.26] Our -[2732.26 --> 2733.36] Global -[2733.36 --> 2733.92] Leaders -[2733.92 --> 2734.46] As many -[2734.46 --> 2735.62] Countries -[2735.62 --> 2736.20] Have gathered -[2736.20 --> 2737.72] To talk -[2737.72 --> 2738.86] About climate -[2738.86 --> 2739.60] And the impact -[2739.60 --> 2740.42] That we -[2740.42 --> 2741.06] Have had -[2741.06 --> 2741.42] And on -[2741.42 --> 2742.14] Climate change -[2742.14 --> 2742.72] In the world -[2742.72 --> 2743.68] We pray -[2743.68 --> 2744.18] Lord God -[2744.18 --> 2745.62] For wisdom -[2745.62 --> 2746.32] And we pray -[2746.32 --> 2747.26] For integrity -[2747.26 --> 2748.36] We pray -[2748.36 --> 2750.26] That the -[2750.26 --> 2750.76] Challenges -[2750.76 --> 2751.34] That are -[2751.34 --> 2751.84] In front -[2751.84 --> 2752.26] Of us -[2752.26 --> 2752.82] Would be -[2752.82 --> 2753.58] Would be -[2753.58 --> 2754.56] Met with -[2754.56 --> 2755.78] Bigger -[2755.78 --> 2756.52] But also -[2756.52 --> 2757.16] Lord God -[2757.16 --> 2758.16] That would be -[2758.16 --> 2759.88] Met with -[2759.88 --> 2761.28] An awareness -[2761.28 --> 2762.58] Of what -[2762.58 --> 2763.44] Needs to be -[2763.44 --> 2764.02] Done in the -[2764.02 --> 2764.24] World -[2764.24 --> 2765.54] And so we -[2765.54 --> 2766.24] Ask Lord God -[2766.24 --> 2767.04] That in -[2767.04 --> 2767.48] These -[2767.48 --> 2769.22] Conversations -[2769.22 --> 2769.66] That it would -[2769.66 --> 2770.04] Be more -[2770.04 --> 2771.38] Than just -[2771.38 --> 2772.02] Talking -[2772.02 --> 2773.70] But also -[2773.70 --> 2774.30] Lord God -[2774.30 --> 2774.76] That it would -[2774.76 --> 2776.02] Be an -[2776.02 --> 2776.82] Opportunity -[2776.82 --> 2778.18] To -[2778.18 --> 2779.98] For us -[2779.98 --> 2780.68] As Christians -[2780.68 --> 2781.66] To model -[2781.66 --> 2782.58] Responsible -[2782.58 --> 2783.38] Stewardship -[2783.38 --> 2784.18] In the -[2784.18 --> 2784.54] World that -[2784.54 --> 2784.82] You have -[2784.82 --> 2785.34] Created -[2785.34 --> 2787.68] Lord our -[2787.68 --> 2787.96] God we -[2787.96 --> 2788.20] Want to -[2788.20 --> 2788.82] Continue in -[2788.82 --> 2789.48] Prayer for -[2789.48 --> 2791.58] Those in -[2791.58 --> 2792.42] Our community -[2792.42 --> 2792.92] Who are -[2792.92 --> 2793.48] Dealing with -[2793.48 --> 2794.08] Issues of -[2794.08 --> 2794.46] Health -[2794.46 --> 2796.10] There are -[2796.10 --> 2796.60] So many -[2796.60 --> 2797.04] Who are -[2797.04 --> 2797.50] Touched -[2797.50 --> 2797.98] Right now -[2797.98 --> 2798.30] By -[2798.30 --> 2798.86] COVID -[2798.86 --> 2799.20] Whether -[2799.20 --> 2800.14] They have -[2800.14 --> 2800.26] It -[2800.26 --> 2800.94] Themselves -[2800.94 --> 2801.58] Or have -[2801.58 --> 2801.90] Family -[2801.90 --> 2802.40] Members who -[2802.40 --> 2802.70] Have it -[2802.70 --> 2803.22] Or friends -[2803.22 --> 2804.22] Or even -[2804.22 --> 2804.72] Just in -[2804.72 --> 2806.06] The way -[2806.06 --> 2806.78] Life has -[2806.78 --> 2807.20] Been so -[2807.20 --> 2807.78] Durastically -[2807.78 --> 2808.38] Changed -[2808.38 --> 2809.74] And so -[2809.74 --> 2810.12] God for -[2810.12 --> 2810.48] Those who -[2810.48 --> 2810.98] Need healing -[2810.98 --> 2811.32] We want -[2811.32 --> 2811.66] To pray -[2811.66 --> 2812.60] For healing -[2812.60 --> 2813.94] We thank -[2813.94 --> 2814.32] You for -[2814.32 --> 2815.26] The stories -[2815.26 --> 2815.62] That we -[2815.62 --> 2816.08] Can hear -[2816.08 --> 2817.40] Of healing -[2817.40 --> 2817.96] That happens -[2817.96 --> 2818.38] We thank -[2818.38 --> 2818.92] You again -[2818.92 --> 2819.94] For the -[2819.94 --> 2820.48] Story of -[2820.48 --> 2821.36] Healing and -[2821.36 --> 2821.78] Your hand -[2821.78 --> 2822.36] Of protection -[2822.36 --> 2823.16] On Patrick -[2823.16 --> 2824.66] And yet -[2824.66 --> 2825.18] We also -[2825.18 --> 2825.90] Know Lord God -[2825.90 --> 2826.28] That not -[2826.28 --> 2827.24] Everyone has -[2827.24 --> 2828.28] Recovered -[2828.28 --> 2828.76] Not everyone -[2828.76 --> 2829.66] Has healed -[2829.66 --> 2830.10] Some are -[2830.10 --> 2830.58] Still in the -[2830.58 --> 2831.02] Midst and -[2831.02 --> 2831.54] Some have -[2831.54 --> 2832.82] Died as a -[2832.82 --> 2833.14] Result -[2833.14 --> 2833.92] And so -[2833.92 --> 2834.38] God for -[2834.38 --> 2835.08] For those -[2835.08 --> 2835.32] Who are -[2835.32 --> 2835.74] Mourning -[2835.74 --> 2836.84] We pray -[2836.84 --> 2837.80] Be near -[2837.80 --> 2838.22] To them -[2838.22 --> 2839.56] For those -[2839.56 --> 2839.90] Who are -[2839.90 --> 2841.28] Crying out -[2841.28 --> 2842.58] In anguish -[2842.58 --> 2843.38] And anxiety -[2843.38 --> 2844.52] We pray -[2844.52 --> 2845.28] That there -[2845.28 --> 2845.76] Would be -[2845.76 --> 2846.96] From us -[2846.96 --> 2848.24] A compassion -[2848.24 --> 2849.28] And a -[2849.28 --> 2849.82] Willingness -[2849.82 --> 2850.24] To come -[2850.24 --> 2850.88] Alongside -[2850.88 --> 2851.14] That we -[2851.14 --> 2852.00] Might sit -[2852.00 --> 2852.62] In that -[2852.62 --> 2853.14] Dark night -[2853.14 --> 2853.92] Of the soul -[2853.92 --> 2854.48] Together -[2854.48 --> 2857.08] God for -[2857.08 --> 2857.62] Those who -[2857.62 --> 2859.12] Have ongoing -[2859.12 --> 2860.32] Health concerns -[2860.32 --> 2861.38] That aren't -[2861.38 --> 2861.96] Related to -[2861.96 --> 2862.54] COVID and -[2862.54 --> 2862.82] Yet are -[2862.82 --> 2863.56] Still impacted -[2863.56 --> 2864.04] By that -[2864.04 --> 2864.44] Because of -[2864.44 --> 2864.84] Postponed -[2864.84 --> 2865.32] Treatments -[2865.32 --> 2865.88] Or surgeries -[2865.88 --> 2866.46] Or tests -[2866.46 --> 2866.76] And the -[2866.76 --> 2867.18] Like we -[2867.18 --> 2868.06] Pray that -[2868.06 --> 2868.30] You would -[2868.30 --> 2868.64] Be near -[2868.64 --> 2869.10] To them -[2869.10 --> 2869.92] As well -[2869.92 --> 2871.42] Father we -[2871.42 --> 2871.66] Want to -[2871.66 --> 2872.18] Continue in -[2872.18 --> 2872.78] Prayer for -[2872.78 --> 2873.56] Willie and -[2873.56 --> 2874.20] Bob and -[2874.20 --> 2874.84] Benita and -[2874.84 --> 2875.44] Janet as they're -[2875.44 --> 2876.02] All receiving -[2876.02 --> 2877.12] Different treatments -[2877.12 --> 2877.48] Or waiting -[2877.48 --> 2877.84] For different -[2877.84 --> 2878.52] Tests or -[2878.52 --> 2879.16] Waiting for -[2879.16 --> 2880.22] Whatever is -[2880.22 --> 2880.98] Next in the -[2880.98 --> 2881.78] Midst of -[2881.78 --> 2882.86] Their health -[2882.86 --> 2883.88] Care as -[2883.88 --> 2884.60] Well and -[2884.60 --> 2884.90] So we -[2884.90 --> 2885.20] Pray that -[2885.20 --> 2885.50] You would -[2885.50 --> 2886.22] Expedite -[2886.22 --> 2887.20] Processes -[2887.20 --> 2887.78] And that in -[2887.78 --> 2888.40] The midst of -[2888.40 --> 2888.74] It all -[2888.74 --> 2890.00] You would -[2890.00 --> 2890.28] Bring -[2890.28 --> 2891.38] Peace -[2891.38 --> 2894.32] Father God -[2894.32 --> 2894.62] We want -[2894.62 --> 2894.98] To pray -[2894.98 --> 2896.52] Especially -[2896.52 --> 2897.08] Tonight -[2897.08 --> 2898.18] Because we -[2898.18 --> 2898.58] Know that -[2898.58 --> 2898.84] There will -[2898.84 --> 2899.88] Be lots -[2899.88 --> 2900.40] Of families -[2900.40 --> 2901.08] And kids -[2901.08 --> 2902.36] Walking around -[2902.36 --> 2902.68] On the -[2902.68 --> 2903.24] Streets and -[2903.24 --> 2903.52] So we -[2903.52 --> 2903.98] Pray for -[2903.98 --> 2904.40] Your hand -[2904.40 --> 2904.98] Of protection -[2904.98 --> 2906.14] On them -[2906.14 --> 2907.28] Tonight would -[2907.28 --> 2908.24] Be an -[2908.24 --> 2909.08] Opportunity to -[2909.08 --> 2909.74] Laugh and -[2909.74 --> 2911.02] To enjoy -[2911.02 --> 2912.38] Communities -[2912.38 --> 2912.84] Together -[2912.84 --> 2914.12] Outside but -[2914.12 --> 2914.76] We do pray -[2914.76 --> 2915.34] Lord God -[2915.34 --> 2916.00] For safety -[2916.00 --> 2917.82] We do pray -[2917.82 --> 2919.40] For your -[2919.40 --> 2920.48] Hand on -[2920.48 --> 2921.16] Those who -[2921.16 --> 2922.26] Do go out -[2922.26 --> 2922.94] Tonight -[2922.94 --> 2924.72] Father God -[2924.72 --> 2925.42] Now as we -[2925.42 --> 2926.10] Come to -[2926.10 --> 2926.64] Your word -[2926.64 --> 2927.30] We ask -[2927.30 --> 2927.64] That you -[2927.64 --> 2929.64] Would take -[2929.64 --> 2930.50] Its truth -[2930.50 --> 2931.12] And apply -[2931.12 --> 2931.80] It to our -[2931.80 --> 2932.16] Lives -[2932.16 --> 2933.10] Open us -[2933.10 --> 2933.54] Up that we -[2933.54 --> 2934.06] Might hear -[2934.06 --> 2935.10] Directly -[2935.10 --> 2935.70] From you -[2935.70 --> 2937.14] We pray -[2937.14 --> 2937.72] This Jesus -[2937.72 --> 2938.26] In your -[2938.26 --> 2939.02] Holy name -[2939.02 --> 2940.00] Amen -[2940.00 --> 2951.08] While I'm -[2951.08 --> 2951.64] Moving over -[2951.64 --> 2951.88] Here -[2951.88 --> 2952.64] Dave -[2952.64 --> 2953.62] I got a -[2953.62 --> 2954.26] Notification -[2954.26 --> 2955.48] That the -[2955.48 --> 2956.20] Audio seems -[2956.20 --> 2956.70] Funny on -[2956.70 --> 2957.06] The live -[2957.06 --> 2957.42] Stream -[2957.42 --> 2960.16] Levi I -[2960.16 --> 2960.34] Don't know -[2960.34 --> 2960.62] If that's -[2960.62 --> 2961.02] Something with -[2961.02 --> 2961.70] OBS or -[2961.70 --> 2962.60] Someone can -[2962.60 --> 2963.10] Check that -[2963.10 --> 2968.94] Okay -[2968.94 --> 2972.08] We this -[2972.08 --> 2972.74] Morning are -[2972.74 --> 2973.80] Continuing in -[2973.80 --> 2974.68] Our series -[2974.68 --> 2975.64] In 1st Peter -[2975.64 --> 2977.60] And we're -[2977.60 --> 2977.80] Going to do -[2977.80 --> 2978.34] Things just a -[2978.34 --> 2978.66] Little bit -[2978.66 --> 2979.30] Differently -[2979.30 --> 2980.20] Together this -[2980.20 --> 2980.52] Morning -[2980.52 --> 2983.24] And I'm -[2983.24 --> 2983.50] Going to -[2983.50 --> 2984.52] Save the -[2984.52 --> 2985.30] Reading of -[2985.30 --> 2985.90] The text that -[2985.90 --> 2986.26] We're going to -[2986.26 --> 2987.52] Look at to -[2987.52 --> 2988.48] Near the end -[2988.48 --> 2989.44] Of our time -[2989.44 --> 2990.52] Together but I -[2990.52 --> 2991.06] Do want you to -[2991.06 --> 2991.90] Have that there -[2991.90 --> 2993.08] Ready and so -[2993.08 --> 2993.40] We're going to -[2993.40 --> 2994.10] Read later -[2994.10 --> 2995.00] From 1st Peter -[2995.00 --> 2996.84] 3 verse 8 -[2996.84 --> 2997.64] Through 22 -[2997.64 --> 2999.70] But we'll -[2999.70 --> 3000.30] Come to that -[3000.30 --> 3001.22] In just a -[3001.22 --> 3001.80] Moment before -[3001.80 --> 3002.76] That before we -[3002.76 --> 3003.82] Get there and -[3003.82 --> 3004.34] For the first -[3004.34 --> 3005.26] Bit I want to -[3005.26 --> 3006.28] Sort of set -[3006.28 --> 3008.34] The stage and -[3008.34 --> 3009.68] Remind us of -[3009.68 --> 3011.40] The context that -[3011.40 --> 3012.08] The apostle -[3012.08 --> 3013.22] Peter is -[3013.22 --> 3014.94] Writing to and -[3014.94 --> 3015.70] In the midst -[3015.70 --> 3018.72] Of now if -[3018.72 --> 3019.06] You've been -[3019.06 --> 3019.82] Following along -[3019.82 --> 3020.36] Or even if -[3020.36 --> 3020.68] You just have -[3020.68 --> 3021.02] Your bible -[3021.02 --> 3021.50] In front of -[3021.50 --> 3021.72] You and -[3021.72 --> 3022.26] You flip -[3022.26 --> 3022.96] Back through -[3022.96 --> 3023.54] The section -[3023.54 --> 3024.40] That we are -[3024.40 --> 3024.62] Going to -[3024.62 --> 3025.30] Read today -[3025.30 --> 3026.54] In 1st Peter -[3026.54 --> 3027.54] 3 is a -[3027.54 --> 3027.90] Sort of -[3027.90 --> 3029.04] Capstone -[3029.04 --> 3030.00] To the -[3030.00 --> 3030.66] Point that -[3030.66 --> 3031.10] Peter has -[3031.10 --> 3031.74] Made in -[3031.74 --> 3032.14] The previous -[3032.14 --> 3032.74] Section that -[3032.74 --> 3033.06] We looked -[3033.06 --> 3033.92] At last -[3033.92 --> 3034.14] Time -[3034.14 --> 3034.60] Point that -[3034.60 --> 3035.10] Peter has -[3035.10 --> 3035.62] Been making -[3035.62 --> 3036.14] Over and -[3036.14 --> 3036.56] Over and -[3036.56 --> 3037.12] Over again -[3037.12 --> 3037.48] From the -[3037.48 --> 3037.98] Very beginning -[3037.98 --> 3039.36] And so -[3039.36 --> 3040.12] Maybe you -[3040.12 --> 3041.00] Recall but -[3041.00 --> 3042.00] Peter is -[3042.00 --> 3042.72] Writing to -[3042.72 --> 3043.48] A group of -[3043.48 --> 3044.06] Christians -[3044.06 --> 3045.58] Many of -[3045.58 --> 3046.22] Whom would -[3046.22 --> 3046.68] Have been -[3046.68 --> 3048.38] Early converts -[3048.38 --> 3049.64] To christianity -[3049.64 --> 3050.70] From judaism -[3050.70 --> 3051.60] In the -[3051.60 --> 3052.38] 40s and -[3052.38 --> 3053.52] 50s a.d -[3053.52 --> 3054.58] In this -[3054.58 --> 3055.06] Group of -[3055.06 --> 3055.52] Christians -[3055.52 --> 3056.22] Peter tells -[3056.22 --> 3056.66] Us in the -[3056.66 --> 3056.96] Opening -[3056.96 --> 3057.62] Verses -[3057.62 --> 3059.02] Live in -[3059.02 --> 3059.82] Pontus -[3059.82 --> 3060.54] Galatia -[3060.54 --> 3061.42] Cappadocia -[3061.42 --> 3062.18] Asia -[3062.18 --> 3062.74] And -[3062.74 --> 3063.28] Bithynia -[3063.28 --> 3064.00] Now if -[3064.00 --> 3064.48] Pastor Kevin -[3064.48 --> 3064.80] Was here -[3064.80 --> 3065.18] That's -[3065.18 --> 3065.50] I would -[3065.50 --> 3065.80] Tell him -[3065.80 --> 3066.08] That's -[3066.08 --> 3066.32] How you -[3066.32 --> 3066.70] Say that -[3066.70 --> 3066.94] Word -[3066.94 --> 3067.70] Because he -[3067.70 --> 3068.04] Struggled -[3068.04 --> 3068.44] Over it -[3068.44 --> 3069.20] But i'll -[3069.20 --> 3069.54] Remind him -[3069.54 --> 3069.76] Later -[3069.76 --> 3071.72] Now that -[3071.72 --> 3072.46] That region -[3072.46 --> 3073.44] Is actually -[3073.44 --> 3074.14] Modern day -[3074.14 --> 3074.50] Turkey -[3074.50 --> 3075.62] And so -[3075.62 --> 3075.90] If you -[3075.90 --> 3076.64] Know anything -[3076.64 --> 3077.38] About geography -[3077.38 --> 3078.04] Think of -[3078.04 --> 3078.36] Where modern -[3078.36 --> 3078.78] Day turkey -[3078.78 --> 3078.94] Is -[3078.94 --> 3079.18] If you -[3079.18 --> 3079.36] Don't -[3079.36 --> 3079.66] Know anything -[3079.66 --> 3080.34] About geography -[3080.34 --> 3081.16] You can -[3081.16 --> 3081.58] Google it -[3081.58 --> 3082.10] And figure -[3082.10 --> 3082.38] It out -[3082.38 --> 3084.78] He is -[3084.78 --> 3085.32] Addressing -[3085.32 --> 3086.60] This group -[3086.60 --> 3087.40] Of churches -[3087.40 --> 3089.12] From the -[3089.12 --> 3089.44] Beginning -[3089.44 --> 3090.94] As elect -[3090.94 --> 3092.02] Exiles -[3092.02 --> 3093.60] So what he -[3093.60 --> 3093.92] Means by -[3093.92 --> 3094.32] That is that -[3094.32 --> 3094.70] They have been -[3094.70 --> 3095.48] Chosen by -[3095.48 --> 3095.96] God -[3095.96 --> 3097.24] But they -[3097.24 --> 3097.80] Are not -[3097.80 --> 3098.58] At home -[3098.58 --> 3099.44] In the -[3099.44 --> 3099.64] World -[3099.64 --> 3099.90] Where they -[3099.90 --> 3100.18] Live -[3100.18 --> 3101.58] That's -[3101.58 --> 3101.68] Who -[3101.68 --> 3101.90] These -[3101.90 --> 3102.20] People -[3102.20 --> 3102.54] Are -[3102.54 --> 3104.56] Now if -[3104.56 --> 3104.84] You're -[3104.84 --> 3105.20] Familiar -[3105.20 --> 3105.88] With the -[3105.88 --> 3106.42] Other books -[3106.42 --> 3106.72] Of the -[3106.72 --> 3106.84] New -[3106.84 --> 3107.30] Testament -[3107.30 --> 3109.54] The apostle -[3109.54 --> 3110.38] Paul writes -[3110.38 --> 3111.06] Some letters -[3111.06 --> 3111.52] He writes -[3111.52 --> 3112.10] To the church -[3112.10 --> 3112.76] In Ephesus -[3112.76 --> 3113.56] The Ephesians -[3113.56 --> 3114.00] He writes -[3114.00 --> 3114.32] To the -[3114.32 --> 3114.88] Galatians -[3114.88 --> 3115.52] And he -[3115.52 --> 3115.74] Writes -[3115.74 --> 3116.02] To the -[3116.02 --> 3116.66] Colossians -[3116.66 --> 3117.34] Those are -[3117.34 --> 3117.74] All churches -[3117.74 --> 3118.32] In this -[3118.32 --> 3118.70] Region -[3118.70 --> 3120.18] Right -[3120.18 --> 3120.50] The apostle -[3120.50 --> 3121.20] Paul spent -[3121.20 --> 3122.12] The majority -[3122.12 --> 3122.66] Of his -[3122.66 --> 3123.18] Missionary -[3123.18 --> 3123.54] Journeys -[3123.54 --> 3123.98] Except for -[3123.98 --> 3124.32] The fourth -[3124.32 --> 3124.62] One where -[3124.62 --> 3124.86] He went -[3124.86 --> 3125.12] Out to -[3125.12 --> 3125.32] Rome -[3125.32 --> 3126.30] In this -[3126.30 --> 3127.36] Region -[3127.36 --> 3128.86] And in -[3128.86 --> 3129.30] Fact as -[3129.30 --> 3129.94] Paul is -[3129.94 --> 3130.30] Nearing -[3130.30 --> 3130.74] The end -[3130.74 --> 3130.98] Of his -[3130.98 --> 3131.30] Life -[3131.30 --> 3131.84] He writes -[3131.84 --> 3132.62] A second -[3132.62 --> 3132.88] Letter -[3132.88 --> 3133.52] To Timothy -[3133.52 --> 3134.82] And in -[3134.82 --> 3135.78] That letter -[3135.78 --> 3136.12] And this -[3136.12 --> 3136.68] Is fascinating -[3136.68 --> 3137.06] To the -[3137.06 --> 3137.58] Context -[3137.58 --> 3137.86] Because -[3137.86 --> 3138.20] Timothy -[3138.20 --> 3139.18] Is in -[3139.18 --> 3139.86] Ephesus -[3139.86 --> 3140.78] Which is -[3140.78 --> 3141.08] In this -[3141.08 --> 3141.44] Region -[3141.44 --> 3142.36] Paul says -[3142.36 --> 3142.90] To Timothy -[3142.90 --> 3144.18] You know -[3144.18 --> 3144.90] That everyone -[3144.90 --> 3145.38] In the -[3145.38 --> 3145.74] Province -[3145.74 --> 3146.42] Of Asia -[3146.42 --> 3147.32] Has deserted -[3147.32 --> 3147.62] Me -[3147.62 --> 3148.54] And so -[3148.54 --> 3148.72] That's -[3148.72 --> 3149.32] This region -[3149.32 --> 3149.90] Right -[3149.90 --> 3150.36] That everyone -[3150.36 --> 3151.00] Here has -[3151.00 --> 3151.60] Deserted -[3151.60 --> 3152.32] Paul -[3152.32 --> 3153.40] Again -[3153.40 --> 3153.74] If you're -[3153.74 --> 3153.98] Familiar -[3153.98 --> 3154.36] With the -[3154.36 --> 3155.24] New Testament -[3155.24 --> 3155.86] In the book -[3155.86 --> 3156.64] Of Revelation -[3156.64 --> 3157.70] The seven -[3157.70 --> 3158.40] Churches -[3158.40 --> 3159.00] That receive -[3159.00 --> 3159.48] Letters -[3159.48 --> 3160.54] Are all -[3160.54 --> 3161.22] In this -[3161.22 --> 3161.74] Region -[3161.74 --> 3162.58] That Peter -[3162.58 --> 3163.18] Is addressing -[3163.18 --> 3165.62] The churches -[3165.62 --> 3166.22] That Peter -[3166.22 --> 3166.88] Is writing -[3166.88 --> 3167.28] To -[3167.28 --> 3168.24] Are in -[3168.24 --> 3168.60] Trouble -[3168.60 --> 3170.54] They're facing -[3170.54 --> 3171.62] Hardship -[3171.62 --> 3172.94] Maybe they -[3172.94 --> 3173.88] Are shrinking -[3173.88 --> 3175.04] As people -[3175.04 --> 3176.12] Can't handle -[3176.12 --> 3177.30] The persecution -[3177.30 --> 3178.14] And the -[3178.14 --> 3178.64] Suffering -[3178.64 --> 3179.90] Right -[3179.90 --> 3180.36] They're -[3180.36 --> 3180.88] Deserting -[3180.88 --> 3181.62] The gospel -[3181.62 --> 3182.78] Because it's -[3182.78 --> 3183.62] Easier -[3183.62 --> 3184.70] It's more -[3184.70 --> 3185.26] Comfortable -[3185.26 --> 3186.28] And it's -[3186.28 --> 3186.74] Safer -[3186.74 --> 3187.84] Both ultimately -[3187.84 --> 3188.40] In the sense -[3188.40 --> 3188.60] That they -[3188.60 --> 3189.10] Won't die -[3189.10 --> 3189.94] But even -[3189.94 --> 3190.46] More simply -[3190.46 --> 3190.90] Than that -[3190.90 --> 3191.66] It's safer -[3191.66 --> 3192.50] Because blending -[3192.50 --> 3193.74] In looking -[3193.74 --> 3194.42] Like the culture -[3194.42 --> 3194.90] Around you -[3194.90 --> 3195.52] Is always -[3195.52 --> 3196.38] Easier -[3196.38 --> 3197.42] Than standing -[3197.42 --> 3197.78] Out -[3197.78 --> 3200.70] And we need -[3200.70 --> 3201.32] To hear that -[3201.32 --> 3201.60] Right -[3201.60 --> 3202.50] That to a -[3202.50 --> 3203.00] Group of -[3203.00 --> 3203.44] Churches -[3203.44 --> 3204.10] In trouble -[3204.10 --> 3205.32] Where early -[3205.32 --> 3205.76] Christians -[3205.76 --> 3206.92] Are leaving -[3206.92 --> 3207.44] The faith -[3207.44 --> 3208.00] Because of -[3208.00 --> 3208.54] Hardship -[3208.54 --> 3209.48] Where false -[3209.48 --> 3210.00] Teachers -[3210.00 --> 3210.92] Are rising -[3210.92 --> 3211.56] Up for their -[3211.56 --> 3212.14] Own profit -[3212.14 --> 3212.48] And their -[3212.48 --> 3213.00] Own gain -[3213.00 --> 3214.06] In a -[3214.06 --> 3214.44] Region -[3214.44 --> 3215.04] Also -[3215.04 --> 3215.78] That Rome -[3215.78 --> 3216.48] Is still -[3216.48 --> 3217.18] Actively -[3217.18 --> 3217.94] Trying to -[3217.94 --> 3218.78] Colonize -[3218.78 --> 3219.48] And bring -[3219.48 --> 3220.24] Under thumb -[3220.24 --> 3221.40] There's this -[3221.40 --> 3222.30] Conflict -[3222.30 --> 3222.86] That's taking -[3222.86 --> 3223.32] Place -[3223.32 --> 3225.30] Now -[3225.30 --> 3227.24] Some of -[3227.24 --> 3227.42] You are -[3227.42 --> 3227.56] Going to -[3227.56 --> 3227.84] Have to -[3227.84 --> 3229.06] Forgive me -[3229.06 --> 3229.42] For what -[3229.42 --> 3229.78] I'm about -[3229.78 --> 3230.20] To do -[3230.20 --> 3231.06] Because I'm -[3231.06 --> 3231.24] Going to -[3231.24 --> 3231.70] Nerd out -[3231.70 --> 3232.06] On a little -[3232.06 --> 3232.28] Bit of -[3232.28 --> 3232.66] History -[3232.66 --> 3233.32] For a -[3233.32 --> 3233.52] Moment -[3233.52 --> 3233.82] And I -[3233.82 --> 3234.14] Know that -[3234.14 --> 3234.42] Some of -[3234.42 --> 3234.80] You aren't -[3234.80 --> 3235.10] Going to -[3235.10 --> 3235.64] Appreciate -[3235.64 --> 3235.92] That -[3235.92 --> 3236.16] And I -[3236.16 --> 3236.36] Also -[3236.36 --> 3236.58] Know that -[3236.58 --> 3236.76] Some of -[3236.76 --> 3236.92] You are -[3236.92 --> 3237.08] Going to -[3237.08 --> 3237.50] Love it -[3237.50 --> 3238.58] So for -[3238.58 --> 3238.86] Those of -[3238.86 --> 3239.06] You who -[3239.06 --> 3239.40] Love it -[3239.40 --> 3239.76] You're my -[3239.76 --> 3240.08] People -[3240.08 --> 3241.16] For those of -[3241.16 --> 3241.40] You who are -[3241.40 --> 3241.76] Just going to -[3241.76 --> 3242.02] Deal -[3243.00 --> 3245.66] I think -[3245.66 --> 3245.90] We need -[3245.90 --> 3246.26] To hear -[3246.26 --> 3246.52] It -[3246.52 --> 3247.58] Because I -[3247.58 --> 3248.24] Think that -[3248.24 --> 3248.90] Too many -[3248.90 --> 3249.60] Of us -[3249.60 --> 3250.34] Think of -[3250.34 --> 3250.88] History -[3250.88 --> 3251.50] Or think -[3251.50 --> 3251.78] Of the -[3251.78 --> 3252.82] Letters in -[3252.82 --> 3253.10] The New -[3253.10 --> 3253.60] Testament -[3253.60 --> 3254.80] Written in -[3254.80 --> 3255.12] History -[3255.12 --> 3255.52] Or really -[3255.52 --> 3256.10] Anything else -[3256.10 --> 3256.36] That was -[3256.36 --> 3257.10] Written in -[3257.10 --> 3257.36] History -[3257.36 --> 3258.08] We think -[3258.08 --> 3258.66] About that -[3258.66 --> 3259.36] As a -[3259.36 --> 3260.18] Static -[3260.18 --> 3260.96] Time -[3260.96 --> 3261.58] And a -[3261.58 --> 3262.02] Static -[3262.02 --> 3262.64] Place -[3262.64 --> 3263.06] Like the -[3263.06 --> 3264.02] Culture is -[3264.02 --> 3264.26] Somehow -[3264.26 --> 3265.00] Fixed -[3265.00 --> 3266.90] Because from -[3266.90 --> 3267.64] Our perspective -[3267.64 --> 3267.94] On the -[3267.94 --> 3268.28] Past -[3268.28 --> 3268.76] It is -[3268.76 --> 3270.94] But when -[3270.94 --> 3271.38] You're living -[3271.38 --> 3271.92] In it -[3271.92 --> 3273.06] That's -[3273.06 --> 3273.34] Just not -[3273.34 --> 3273.66] True -[3273.66 --> 3275.18] At this -[3275.18 --> 3275.50] Part of -[3275.50 --> 3275.90] The world -[3275.90 --> 3276.68] The western -[3276.68 --> 3277.12] Part of -[3277.12 --> 3277.58] This region -[3277.58 --> 3277.90] Actually -[3277.90 --> 3278.26] So what -[3278.26 --> 3278.66] Is referred -[3278.66 --> 3279.56] To by -[3279.56 --> 3280.36] Peter as -[3280.36 --> 3281.00] Asia and -[3281.00 --> 3281.56] Bithynia -[3281.56 --> 3282.92] Has only -[3282.92 --> 3283.70] Just been -[3283.70 --> 3285.12] Romanized -[3285.12 --> 3285.68] Taken over -[3285.68 --> 3286.20] By Rome -[3286.20 --> 3287.40] In 133 -[3287.40 --> 3287.78] BC -[3287.78 --> 3289.38] And then -[3289.38 --> 3290.18] In 23 -[3290.18 --> 3290.72] BC -[3290.72 --> 3291.22] So just -[3291.22 --> 3291.62] Over 100 -[3291.62 --> 3292.14] Years later -[3292.14 --> 3292.56] Caesar -[3292.56 --> 3293.20] Augustus -[3293.20 --> 3293.50] That's a -[3293.50 --> 3293.92] Name probably -[3293.92 --> 3294.52] Familiar to -[3294.52 --> 3294.82] Many of -[3294.82 --> 3294.96] You -[3294.96 --> 3295.66] Caesar -[3295.66 --> 3296.20] Augustus -[3296.20 --> 3296.52] Makes -[3296.52 --> 3297.32] Galatia -[3297.32 --> 3297.82] Another one -[3297.82 --> 3298.06] Of these -[3298.06 --> 3298.44] Places -[3298.44 --> 3299.08] A province -[3299.08 --> 3299.58] Of Rome -[3299.58 --> 3301.42] In 62 -[3301.42 --> 3302.14] AD -[3302.14 --> 3303.34] About the -[3303.34 --> 3303.70] Time that -[3303.70 --> 3304.02] Our letter -[3304.02 --> 3304.40] Is being -[3304.40 --> 3304.72] Written -[3304.72 --> 3305.52] Nero -[3305.52 --> 3305.92] Who's -[3305.92 --> 3306.16] The -[3306.16 --> 3306.50] Roman -[3306.50 --> 3306.92] Emperor -[3306.92 --> 3308.02] Finally -[3308.02 --> 3308.74] Removes -[3308.74 --> 3308.94] He -[3308.94 --> 3309.62] Abdicates -[3309.62 --> 3310.28] Polman -[3310.28 --> 3310.70] II -[3310.70 --> 3311.20] As the -[3311.20 --> 3311.38] King -[3311.38 --> 3312.02] Of Pontus -[3312.02 --> 3312.26] Another -[3312.26 --> 3312.54] One of -[3312.54 --> 3312.68] These -[3312.68 --> 3313.02] Regions -[3313.02 --> 3313.60] And then -[3313.60 --> 3313.72] He -[3313.72 --> 3314.02] Brings -[3314.02 --> 3314.16] It -[3314.16 --> 3314.36] Under -[3314.36 --> 3314.76] Full -[3314.76 --> 3315.44] Roman -[3315.44 --> 3316.08] Colonial -[3316.08 --> 3316.58] Control -[3316.58 --> 3318.00] So this -[3318.00 --> 3318.22] Is all -[3318.22 --> 3318.58] Happening -[3318.58 --> 3319.16] We can -[3319.16 --> 3319.38] Zoom -[3319.38 --> 3319.58] Out -[3319.58 --> 3319.78] This -[3319.78 --> 3320.86] Time -[3320.86 --> 3321.08] In -[3321.08 --> 3321.42] History -[3321.42 --> 3321.72] Right -[3321.72 --> 3322.04] Here -[3322.04 --> 3322.66] Is -[3322.66 --> 3323.00] What's -[3323.00 --> 3323.38] Called -[3323.38 --> 3323.62] The -[3323.62 --> 3324.02] Roman -[3324.02 --> 3324.98] Parthian -[3324.98 --> 3325.62] Wars -[3325.62 --> 3326.62] And it's -[3326.62 --> 3326.96] A series -[3326.96 --> 3327.16] Of -[3327.16 --> 3327.84] Conflicts -[3327.84 --> 3327.96] That -[3327.96 --> 3328.18] Go -[3328.18 --> 3328.72] Back -[3328.72 --> 3328.94] And -[3328.94 --> 3329.26] Forth -[3329.26 --> 3329.64] Changing -[3329.64 --> 3330.12] Borders -[3330.12 --> 3331.10] Changing -[3331.10 --> 3331.60] Names -[3331.60 --> 3332.42] Redrawing -[3332.42 --> 3333.08] Boundaries -[3333.08 --> 3333.88] That starts -[3333.88 --> 3334.44] In 53 -[3334.44 --> 3334.94] BC -[3334.94 --> 3335.64] And then -[3335.64 --> 3336.24] Continues -[3336.24 --> 3336.62] All the -[3336.62 --> 3336.76] Way -[3336.76 --> 3337.00] Through -[3337.00 --> 3338.22] 217 -[3338.22 --> 3338.94] AD -[3338.94 --> 3339.56] And that -[3339.56 --> 3340.04] Especially -[3340.04 --> 3340.54] Happens -[3340.54 --> 3340.96] In the -[3340.96 --> 3341.48] Eastern -[3341.48 --> 3342.00] Region -[3342.00 --> 3342.22] That -[3342.22 --> 3342.44] Peter -[3342.44 --> 3342.60] Is -[3342.60 --> 3342.84] Writing -[3342.84 --> 3343.06] To -[3343.06 --> 3344.56] So all -[3344.56 --> 3344.72] Of -[3344.72 --> 3344.94] This -[3344.94 --> 3345.10] Is -[3345.10 --> 3345.54] Happening -[3345.54 --> 3345.82] In -[3345.82 --> 3346.00] The -[3346.00 --> 3346.40] World -[3346.40 --> 3346.90] And -[3346.90 --> 3347.16] These -[3347.16 --> 3347.78] Christians -[3347.78 --> 3348.12] Are -[3348.12 --> 3348.42] Trying -[3348.42 --> 3348.54] To -[3348.54 --> 3348.72] Make -[3348.72 --> 3348.88] Their -[3348.88 --> 3349.10] Way -[3349.10 --> 3349.30] In -[3349.30 --> 3349.44] And -[3349.44 --> 3349.62] Through -[3349.62 --> 3349.84] It -[3349.84 --> 3350.72] Right -[3350.72 --> 3350.88] There -[3350.88 --> 3351.00] Are -[3351.00 --> 3351.42] Culture -[3351.42 --> 3351.86] Wars -[3351.86 --> 3352.06] There -[3352.06 --> 3352.20] Are -[3352.20 --> 3352.74] Literal -[3352.74 --> 3353.12] Wars -[3353.12 --> 3353.34] There -[3353.34 --> 3353.48] Are -[3353.48 --> 3354.42] Colonization -[3354.42 --> 3355.06] Practices -[3355.06 --> 3355.50] There -[3355.50 --> 3355.62] Are -[3355.62 --> 3356.02] Histories -[3356.02 --> 3356.16] That -[3356.16 --> 3356.22] Are -[3356.22 --> 3356.38] Being -[3356.38 --> 3356.76] Written -[3356.76 --> 3357.08] And -[3357.08 --> 3357.62] Rewritten -[3357.62 --> 3357.86] And -[3357.86 --> 3358.02] Then -[3358.02 --> 3358.22] Written -[3358.22 --> 3358.48] Over -[3358.48 --> 3358.94] Again -[3358.94 --> 3360.06] But -[3360.06 --> 3360.20] It's -[3360.20 --> 3360.42] Not -[3360.42 --> 3360.62] An -[3360.62 --> 3361.04] Easy -[3361.04 --> 3362.02] Time -[3362.02 --> 3364.30] Let -[3364.30 --> 3364.36] Me -[3364.36 --> 3364.48] Give -[3364.48 --> 3364.56] You -[3364.56 --> 3364.68] A -[3364.68 --> 3365.06] Parallel -[3365.06 --> 3366.70] Some -[3366.70 --> 3366.86] Of -[3366.86 --> 3367.02] You -[3367.02 --> 3368.26] Remember -[3368.26 --> 3369.04] Life -[3369.04 --> 3369.46] After -[3369.46 --> 3369.74] World -[3369.74 --> 3369.92] War -[3369.92 --> 3370.20] II -[3370.20 --> 3371.78] Even -[3371.78 --> 3372.10] More -[3372.10 --> 3372.28] Of -[3372.28 --> 3372.52] You -[3372.52 --> 3373.20] Remember -[3373.20 --> 3374.12] Life -[3374.12 --> 3374.58] During -[3374.58 --> 3374.88] The -[3374.88 --> 3375.32] Cold -[3375.32 --> 3375.74] War -[3375.74 --> 3376.34] And -[3376.34 --> 3376.50] The -[3376.50 --> 3376.72] Red -[3376.72 --> 3377.16] Square -[3377.16 --> 3377.66] Red -[3377.66 --> 3378.04] Scare -[3378.04 --> 3378.44] Sorry -[3378.44 --> 3378.88] The -[3378.88 --> 3379.02] Red -[3379.02 --> 3379.32] Scare -[3379.32 --> 3380.22] This -[3380.22 --> 3380.34] Is -[3380.34 --> 3380.46] The -[3380.46 --> 3381.52] 1950s -[3381.52 --> 3381.70] Through -[3381.70 --> 3381.86] The -[3381.86 --> 3381.98] End -[3381.98 --> 3382.08] Of -[3382.74 --> 3383.74] The -[3383.74 --> 3384.74] Red -[3384.74 --> 3387.32] Scare -[3387.32 --> 3388.38] Was -[3388.38 --> 3388.58] The -[3388.58 --> 3389.04] Deep -[3389.04 --> 3390.02] Cultural -[3390.02 --> 3390.88] Fear -[3390.88 --> 3391.38] And -[3391.38 --> 3391.90] Force -[3391.90 --> 3392.28] That -[3392.28 --> 3393.06] Communism -[3393.06 --> 3393.34] Was -[3393.34 --> 3393.54] Going -[3393.54 --> 3393.76] To -[3393.76 --> 3394.44] Infiltrate -[3394.44 --> 3394.64] The -[3394.64 --> 3395.04] West -[3395.04 --> 3395.56] And -[3395.56 --> 3395.84] Take -[3395.84 --> 3396.12] Over -[3396.12 --> 3397.28] And -[3397.28 --> 3397.56] Add -[3397.56 --> 3397.74] To -[3397.74 --> 3397.92] The -[3397.92 --> 3398.58] Ideological -[3398.58 --> 3398.92] Threat -[3398.92 --> 3399.12] Of -[3399.12 --> 3399.68] Communism -[3399.68 --> 3400.34] The -[3400.34 --> 3400.76] Growing -[3400.76 --> 3401.72] Real -[3401.72 --> 3402.04] And -[3402.04 --> 3402.40] Physical -[3402.40 --> 3402.76] Threat -[3402.76 --> 3402.92] Of -[3402.92 --> 3403.30] Nuclear -[3403.30 --> 3404.02] Destruction -[3404.02 --> 3404.60] You -[3404.60 --> 3404.78] Have -[3404.78 --> 3405.20] Kids -[3405.20 --> 3405.40] Who -[3405.40 --> 3405.64] Grew -[3405.64 --> 3405.90] Up -[3405.90 --> 3406.50] In -[3406.50 --> 3406.66] The -[3406.66 --> 3407.24] U.S. -[3407.40 --> 3407.88] Reciting -[3407.88 --> 3408.10] The -[3408.10 --> 3408.38] Pledge -[3408.38 --> 3408.54] Of -[3408.54 --> 3409.08] Allegiance -[3409.08 --> 3409.30] And -[3409.30 --> 3409.50] Then -[3409.50 --> 3410.12] Practicing -[3410.12 --> 3410.50] Duck -[3410.50 --> 3410.62] And -[3410.62 --> 3410.84] Cover -[3410.84 --> 3411.22] Drills -[3411.22 --> 3411.74] Under -[3411.74 --> 3411.94] Their -[3411.94 --> 3412.42] Desks -[3412.42 --> 3414.16] In -[3414.16 --> 3414.56] Canada -[3414.56 --> 3415.58] Right -[3415.58 --> 3415.70] In -[3415.70 --> 3415.80] The -[3415.80 --> 3415.94] Middle -[3415.94 --> 3416.10] Of -[3416.10 --> 3416.26] This -[3416.26 --> 3416.52] Time -[3416.52 --> 3416.68] In -[3416.68 --> 3417.44] 1965 -[3417.44 --> 3418.42] We -[3418.42 --> 3419.26] Developed -[3419.26 --> 3419.54] A -[3419.54 --> 3419.78] New -[3419.78 --> 3420.44] National -[3420.44 --> 3420.92] Flag -[3420.92 --> 3421.14] The -[3421.14 --> 3421.36] Flag -[3421.36 --> 3421.52] That -[3421.52 --> 3421.62] We -[3421.62 --> 3421.78] Know -[3421.78 --> 3422.14] Today -[3422.14 --> 3423.34] Part -[3423.34 --> 3423.44] Of -[3423.44 --> 3423.58] The -[3423.58 --> 3423.94] Purpose -[3423.94 --> 3424.18] Of -[3424.18 --> 3424.38] That -[3424.38 --> 3424.62] Was -[3424.62 --> 3424.84] To -[3424.84 --> 3425.72] Pull -[3425.72 --> 3427.06] Turns -[3427.70 --> 3428.26] When -[3428.26 --> 3428.96] Old -[3428.96 --> 3430.12] Clamas -[3430.12 --> 3431.34] 어를 -[3431.34 --> 3431.84] Hard -[3440.46 --> 3444.54] Life -[3444.54 --> 3444.82] If -[3444.82 --> 3445.00] antic -[3445.00 --> 3445.78] John -[3445.78 --> 3445.86] Of -[3445.86 --> 3448.86] and then you also did duck and cover drills. -[3448.86 --> 3452.86] In fact, in the Greater Vancouver area, -[3452.86 --> 3457.86] because of our geographic proximity to the then USSR, -[3457.86 --> 3459.86] there was a pamphlet that was published. -[3459.86 --> 3460.86] Maybe you remember this. -[3460.86 --> 3463.86] It came out in 1963, I think. -[3463.86 --> 3466.86] The pamphlet published was titled, -[3466.86 --> 3469.86] and it was mailed out to all people who lived in the Greater Vancouver area. -[3469.86 --> 3473.86] It was titled Civil Defense Evacuation and Survival Plan -[3473.86 --> 3477.86] for the Greater Vancouver Target Area. -[3477.86 --> 3480.86] Now, the tagline of this pamphlet is terrifying. -[3480.86 --> 3484.86] It says, read it. Your life may depend on it. -[3484.86 --> 3487.86] Some of you remember this time. -[3487.86 --> 3489.86] And here's my point. -[3489.86 --> 3494.86] When war or the threat of war looms, -[3494.86 --> 3498.86] when cultures clash, whether it's Roman and Parthian -[3498.86 --> 3502.86] or Soviet communism and Canadian liberal democracy, -[3502.86 --> 3504.86] your response is the same. -[3504.86 --> 3509.86] You unify around a shared identity and allegiance. -[3509.86 --> 3512.86] You pull together and culturally, -[3512.86 --> 3517.86] you begin to craft and develop a near-on religious identity -[3517.86 --> 3521.86] made out of your political, national, and geographic identity. -[3521.86 --> 3524.86] And so you might have heard during that time, -[3524.86 --> 3529.86] to be a true Canadian is to be anti-communist. -[3529.86 --> 3531.86] Now, it's historically reasonable to presume -[3531.86 --> 3535.86] that the same kinds of things are happening when Peter is writing -[3535.86 --> 3537.86] and to whom Peter is writing. -[3537.86 --> 3539.86] Right? Whether you were a Roman triumphalist -[3539.86 --> 3541.86] and you wanted to see that colonization came in, -[3541.86 --> 3543.86] or you were an Anatolian historicist -[3543.86 --> 3545.86] and you wanted to see the region remain the same, -[3545.86 --> 3547.86] or you were a Parthian champion and you wanted them to win, -[3547.86 --> 3554.86] the people in that time are being forced to decide on their allegiances. -[3554.86 --> 3559.86] They're being forced to pick an identity. -[3559.86 --> 3562.86] And in the turmoil that's going on around them, -[3562.86 --> 3564.86] if you don't pick correctly, -[3564.86 --> 3567.86] it is an end for you socially and politically. -[3567.86 --> 3571.86] It is an end for you in their industry guild or whatever. -[3571.86 --> 3573.86] Right? For the parallel, -[3573.86 --> 3575.86] think about the way that communist sympathizers -[3575.86 --> 3578.86] or people who were charged as agents of communism -[3578.86 --> 3580.86] were treated in that time. -[3582.86 --> 3584.86] And into that tension, -[3584.86 --> 3587.86] Peter writes and he says, -[3587.86 --> 3590.86] you are elect exiles. -[3590.86 --> 3593.86] You are a chosen people. -[3593.86 --> 3596.86] You are God's special possession. -[3596.86 --> 3599.86] You are God's beloved. -[3599.86 --> 3601.86] And he says, -[3601.86 --> 3603.86] because that's who you are, -[3603.86 --> 3607.86] you are foreigners and exiles, -[3607.86 --> 3610.86] strangers and aliens, -[3610.86 --> 3613.86] sojourners and pilgrims. -[3613.86 --> 3616.86] You may live in Pontus, -[3616.86 --> 3618.86] but you're not Pontian. -[3618.86 --> 3620.86] You may live in Galatia, -[3620.86 --> 3622.86] but you're not Galatian. -[3622.86 --> 3624.86] You may live in Bithynia, -[3624.86 --> 3627.86] but you're not Bithynian. -[3627.86 --> 3629.86] Exactly when people are doubling down -[3629.86 --> 3633.86] and solidifying their identities as Roman citizens, -[3633.86 --> 3635.86] offering sacrifices to the emperor -[3635.86 --> 3638.86] as their version of the pledge allegiance to the flag, -[3638.86 --> 3641.86] or when they're solidifying their identities as not Roman, -[3641.86 --> 3643.86] but Parthian or Pontian Galatian, -[3643.86 --> 3644.86] Peter says, -[3644.86 --> 3646.86] no, -[3646.86 --> 3648.86] you are so much more. -[3648.86 --> 3651.86] You are something different. -[3651.86 --> 3655.86] There's huge cultural pressure in either direction, -[3655.86 --> 3656.86] right, -[3656.86 --> 3659.86] to Romanize or to hang on to the old ways. -[3659.86 --> 3661.86] And Peter says, -[3661.86 --> 3664.86] you have to go a third way. -[3664.86 --> 3667.86] Now I think, -[3667.86 --> 3669.86] and I would suggest to you, -[3669.86 --> 3671.86] that this is happening, -[3671.86 --> 3673.86] and this needs to happen, -[3673.86 --> 3675.86] right now, -[3675.86 --> 3676.86] in our world today, -[3676.86 --> 3677.86] in our culture. -[3679.86 --> 3682.86] Instead of the anarchist's cry from generations ago -[3682.86 --> 3683.86] of no gods and no masters, -[3683.86 --> 3685.86] our culture says, -[3685.86 --> 3686.86] you, -[3686.86 --> 3688.86] you are the master of the universe. -[3688.86 --> 3692.86] Instead of our identities being connected to families -[3692.86 --> 3693.86] or to a past, -[3693.86 --> 3698.86] our identities are chosen by an exercise of our own wills, -[3698.86 --> 3699.86] or our own feelings, -[3699.86 --> 3700.86] our own whims, -[3700.86 --> 3701.86] right? -[3701.86 --> 3703.86] You just have to feel your way to yourself -[3703.86 --> 3706.86] in order to be true to yourself. -[3706.86 --> 3707.86] Right? -[3707.86 --> 3709.86] Our culture approaches a religious identity -[3709.86 --> 3712.86] from the perspective of absolute tolerance -[3712.86 --> 3714.86] where everything is the same -[3714.86 --> 3716.86] and everything means the same. -[3716.86 --> 3720.86] They're just different expressions of the same fundamental idea. -[3720.86 --> 3723.86] Now the same fundamental idea is that ultimately, -[3723.86 --> 3727.86] religious experience is about how to be good and moral in the world. -[3727.86 --> 3731.86] And then the secret of our contemporary modern culture -[3731.86 --> 3733.86] is that if you know that secret, -[3733.86 --> 3734.86] you don't need religion. -[3734.86 --> 3735.86] Right? -[3735.86 --> 3736.86] But you can be spiritual, -[3736.86 --> 3737.86] whatever that means, -[3737.86 --> 3739.86] because you can be good and moral -[3739.86 --> 3743.86] apart from a system or a community who shares your belief. -[3743.86 --> 3744.86] Right? -[3744.86 --> 3746.86] In our culture, -[3746.86 --> 3751.86] the world is simultaneously disenchanted. -[3751.86 --> 3754.86] And what I mean by that is that we have removed God -[3754.86 --> 3758.86] and the miraculous from it because of our positivism -[3758.86 --> 3760.86] or because of our strictly materialistic worldviews. -[3760.86 --> 3764.86] And yet, at the same time, seemingly unaware of the contradiction, -[3764.86 --> 3768.86] our world is magical and still yet spiritual. -[3768.86 --> 3769.86] Right? -[3769.86 --> 3772.86] That you can have access to the powers built into the world -[3772.86 --> 3774.86] in order to make yourself better -[3774.86 --> 3777.86] or to make your circumstances more affluent, -[3777.86 --> 3779.86] whether that's done by the right crystals -[3779.86 --> 3782.86] or the right star charts or the right rituals, -[3782.86 --> 3787.86] or not new but making its way back into the mainstream, -[3787.86 --> 3792.86] is this process of micro dosing on LSD or mushrooms -[3792.86 --> 3794.86] or other hallucinogenic drugs -[3794.86 --> 3797.86] so that you can explore this new spiritual plane. -[3799.86 --> 3802.86] Someone actually sent me an article this past week -[3802.86 --> 3804.86] from Los Angeles Magazine. -[3804.86 --> 3805.86] Right? -[3805.86 --> 3806.86] That's about exactly this. -[3806.86 --> 3808.86] And it's a fascinating read. -[3808.86 --> 3813.86] In that article, one of the proponents, one of the evangelists, I'll say, -[3813.86 --> 3816.86] of this new spirituality says the following. -[3816.86 --> 3817.86] He says this, -[3818.86 --> 3824.86] Our religious and spiritual institutions have become hollowed out shells. -[3824.86 --> 3826.86] They're bereft in a way, -[3826.86 --> 3828.86] and a lot of people want something more than that, -[3828.86 --> 3831.86] an affirmation to their intuition, -[3831.86 --> 3832.86] which is a beautiful line in itself, -[3832.86 --> 3834.86] but an affirmation to their intuition -[3834.86 --> 3838.86] that there's something beyond ordinary day-to-day life. -[3838.86 --> 3840.86] There's a disillusionment, -[3840.86 --> 3842.86] and people are looking beyond religion -[3842.86 --> 3845.86] because it's not giving them what they need. -[3845.86 --> 3849.86] And so he talks about how hallucinogenic drugs become that. -[3849.86 --> 3852.86] Now let me be really clear on this, okay? -[3852.86 --> 3853.86] Because some of you hear that, -[3853.86 --> 3854.86] and you're tempted to think, -[3854.86 --> 3856.86] oh, that's just a Vancouver Island hippie. -[3857.86 --> 3858.86] Right? -[3858.86 --> 3861.86] That's just an L.A. Instagram influencer. -[3861.86 --> 3865.86] The person who I just quoted is a board member -[3865.86 --> 3867.86] and the director of ethnopharmacology -[3867.86 --> 3869.86] at the Hefter Research Institute. -[3869.86 --> 3873.86] He is a PhD in botanical sciences from UBC. -[3873.86 --> 3875.86] He's had post-doctorate research fellowships -[3875.86 --> 3877.86] at the Laboratory in Clinical Pharmacology -[3877.86 --> 3879.86] at the National Institute of Mental Health -[3879.86 --> 3880.86] and the Department of Neurology -[3880.86 --> 3883.86] at Stanford University School of Medicine. -[3883.86 --> 3885.86] He's no crazy hippie. -[3885.86 --> 3889.86] In the world today, people say, -[3889.86 --> 3891.86] I don't believe in God, -[3891.86 --> 3895.86] and then they go to Toys R Us and buy a Ouija board. -[3895.86 --> 3897.86] Is Toys R Us still a thing? -[3897.86 --> 3899.86] Did I just date myself, maybe? -[3900.86 --> 3901.86] Tonight, right? -[3901.86 --> 3904.86] Maybe you're joining the thousands of kids -[3904.86 --> 3906.86] who are gonna go trick-or-treating, -[3906.86 --> 3908.86] and at the same time, -[3908.86 --> 3910.86] there are households holding seances -[3910.86 --> 3913.86] because the veil between the physical and spiritual world -[3913.86 --> 3915.86] is believed to be extra thin. -[3915.86 --> 3920.86] There's a new generation of Wiccans and naturalists -[3920.86 --> 3922.86] that are gonna be doing rituals in the forests. -[3922.86 --> 3925.86] This is just our new normal. -[3925.86 --> 3928.86] And let me be really clear, -[3928.86 --> 3931.86] because there's a pull in the other direction as well. -[3931.86 --> 3932.86] Right? -[3932.86 --> 3934.86] So there's this cultural trend towards this new spirituality -[3934.86 --> 3936.86] and a progressive ideology, -[3936.86 --> 3940.86] and there is the counter-trend of the alt-right -[3940.86 --> 3942.86] and of social conservatives. -[3942.86 --> 3945.86] So on the one hand, we're told to join in the new -[3945.86 --> 3947.86] or get left behind to history. -[3947.86 --> 3948.86] On the other hand, -[3948.86 --> 3950.86] reject the agenda of the elitist left -[3950.86 --> 3952.86] or get trapped into a neo-Marxism. -[3953.86 --> 3955.86] Christians are caught up in this too. -[3955.86 --> 3956.86] Right? -[3956.86 --> 3957.86] You have progressive Christianity -[3957.86 --> 3959.86] that has adopted the values of tolerance -[3959.86 --> 3960.86] and felt identity, -[3960.86 --> 3962.86] and you have conservative Christianity -[3962.86 --> 3964.86] that has been co-opted by a religious nationalism -[3964.86 --> 3966.86] and even white supremacy. -[3966.86 --> 3967.86] Right? -[3967.86 --> 3968.86] Make no mistake about it. -[3968.86 --> 3971.86] Just like the Christians to whom Peter is writing, -[3971.86 --> 3974.86] our culture is telling you to choose -[3974.86 --> 3976.86] the new way or the old way. -[3976.86 --> 3979.86] And Peter tells us the exact same thing -[3979.86 --> 3981.86] he told those Christians then. -[3981.86 --> 3984.86] You are called to a third way. -[3984.86 --> 3987.86] You may live in Canada, -[3987.86 --> 3989.86] but you're not Canadian. -[3989.86 --> 3990.86] Not first. -[3990.86 --> 3991.86] Not even second. -[3991.86 --> 3996.86] You are beloved of God. -[3996.86 --> 4001.86] And so love what he loves. -[4001.86 --> 4003.86] You are beloved of God, -[4003.86 --> 4006.86] and so love the way that he loves. -[4006.86 --> 4011.86] In a world that does not recognize Jesus, -[4011.86 --> 4020.86] what you do and how you live must also be unrecognizable. -[4020.86 --> 4022.86] It's going to be weird. -[4022.86 --> 4025.86] It's going to be unique, -[4025.86 --> 4032.86] but it's also going to be the only way those people will ever see Jesus. -[4032.86 --> 4038.86] That's the uniqueness that Peter is calling us to, -[4038.86 --> 4039.86] and that's the uniqueness, -[4039.86 --> 4044.86] this uniqueness of life that Peter is outlining in this text. -[4044.86 --> 4046.86] And so let's read it together. -[4050.86 --> 4052.86] Feel all of those tensions. -[4052.86 --> 4056.86] Feel all of that cultural pulling you one way or the other, -[4056.86 --> 4058.86] and hear Peter say, -[4058.86 --> 4067.86] Finally, all of you, be like-minded. -[4067.86 --> 4069.86] Be sympathetic. -[4069.86 --> 4071.86] Love one another. -[4071.86 --> 4074.86] Be compassionate and humble. -[4074.86 --> 4078.86] Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. -[4078.86 --> 4082.86] On the contrary, repay evil with blessing. -[4082.86 --> 4084.86] Because to this you were called, -[4084.86 --> 4087.86] so that you may inherit a blessing. -[4087.86 --> 4093.86] For whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil, -[4093.86 --> 4095.86] and their lips from deceitful speech. -[4095.86 --> 4098.86] They must turn from evil and do good. -[4098.86 --> 4100.86] They must seek peace and pursue it. -[4100.86 --> 4102.86] For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, -[4102.86 --> 4105.86] and his ears are attentive to their prayers. -[4105.86 --> 4109.86] But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil. -[4109.86 --> 4116.86] Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? -[4116.86 --> 4122.86] But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. -[4122.86 --> 4124.86] Do not be afraid. -[4124.86 --> 4125.86] Do not fear their threats. -[4125.86 --> 4127.86] Do not be frightened. -[4127.86 --> 4133.86] But in your hearts, revere Christ as Lord. -[4133.86 --> 4140.86] Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. -[4140.86 --> 4144.86] But do this with gentleness and respect. -[4144.86 --> 4146.86] Keeping a clear conscience, -[4146.86 --> 4152.86] so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. -[4152.86 --> 4158.86] For it is better, if it is God's will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. -[4158.86 --> 4165.86] For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. -[4165.86 --> 4169.86] He was put to death in the body, but made alive in the spirit. -[4169.86 --> 4173.86] After being made alive, he went and proclaimed to the imprisoned spirits, -[4173.86 --> 4178.86] to those who were disobedient long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. -[4178.86 --> 4182.86] In it, only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water. -[4182.86 --> 4186.86] And this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also. -[4186.86 --> 4190.86] Not the removal of dirt from the body, but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. -[4190.86 --> 4194.86] It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, -[4194.86 --> 4203.86] who has gone into heaven and is at God's right hand with angels and authorities and powers in submission to him. -[4203.86 --> 4206.86] This is the word of the Lord. -[4206.86 --> 4214.86] See, Peter understands the tension. -[4214.86 --> 4219.86] He understands the being pulled to the left or to the right. -[4219.86 --> 4223.86] And he says, no, you must go a third way. -[4223.86 --> 4231.86] And then he outlines for us a third way that has two foci, two areas of focus. -[4231.86 --> 4238.86] First, he writes about how believers will relate to one another, how we will relate to each other. -[4238.86 --> 4244.86] And second, he writes about how believers will relate to those outside of the fellowship, -[4244.86 --> 4248.86] to those outside of the church of Jesus Christ, whom he earlier called pagans. -[4248.86 --> 4253.86] Right? The world that doesn't know God or recognize Jesus. -[4253.86 --> 4268.86] Peter says that our church needs to be made up of the kind of people who are like-minded, sympathetic, loving one another, compassionate, and humble. -[4268.86 --> 4275.86] I want to ask you, in all honesty this morning, is that you? -[4275.86 --> 4283.86] Now, before we dig too deeply, I also want to acknowledge that some of you heard me say that, -[4283.86 --> 4287.86] and you immediately started thinking about other people. -[4287.86 --> 4292.86] Right? You started thinking, oh man, I hope that she hears him say humble this morning, -[4292.86 --> 4295.86] because she could learn something about being humble. -[4295.86 --> 4302.86] Right? You heard me say that, and you go, oh, I really hope that whomever, I'll say the name John, -[4302.86 --> 4304.86] because there's like 20 of you here. -[4304.86 --> 4311.86] Right? I really hope that they are listening, because they sure could use a dose of being like-minded and sympathetic. -[4311.86 --> 4320.86] Or maybe you thought about your spouse, maybe you thought about a friend, maybe you thought about anyone that you wish you could change. -[4320.86 --> 4327.86] If that was you, I want you to think about you. -[4327.86 --> 4331.86] Don't worry about them. Don't be responsible for them. -[4331.86 --> 4338.86] Take responsibility for you, for your own heart and your own life. -[4338.86 --> 4341.86] This is you. Or is this you? -[4341.86 --> 4344.86] Peter is calling you to this. -[4344.86 --> 4347.86] Peter says, be like-minded. -[4347.86 --> 4353.86] Now, there's another translation that says, live in harmony. -[4353.86 --> 4359.86] Right? And so the idea here is that in a world divided, we are together. -[4359.86 --> 4365.86] In a time and place that is constantly fractured, we are of one accord. -[4365.86 --> 4378.86] Now, we don't have to agree on everything, but precisely because we agree on the essentials, we can live in harmony on those tertiary things. -[4378.86 --> 4382.86] Peter says, to be sympathetic. -[4382.86 --> 4388.86] Now, that word literally means sharing in the feelings of others. -[4388.86 --> 4390.86] And so there's two questions here. -[4390.86 --> 4396.86] One, do you share your feelings, your hurts and your joys, your struggles and your blessings? -[4396.86 --> 4403.86] And two, do you make room in your life for others to share their feelings, their hurts, their joys, their struggles and their blessings? -[4403.86 --> 4415.86] In a world that looks out for number one, in a world that has a me-first attitude, what can it look like to be a church who puts others first? -[4415.86 --> 4421.86] Peter says, love one another. -[4421.86 --> 4425.86] Again, literally in Greek there, the word is brotherly love. -[4425.86 --> 4426.86] Philadelphoi. -[4426.86 --> 4430.86] Right? Peter is saying, love as brothers and sisters. -[4430.86 --> 4434.86] Right? You are not strangers to each other. -[4434.86 --> 4438.86] You are not mere acquaintances or even distant relatives. -[4438.86 --> 4441.86] And here's the reality, right? -[4441.86 --> 4449.86] You might not even know the name of someone else who is here right now this morning, or someone who is a part of our church and is participating online this morning. -[4449.86 --> 4454.86] We might not have seen them in a couple of years because of COVID and everything that's going on. -[4454.86 --> 4464.86] But even if you don't know their name, because they belong to this church, they are your brothers and sisters. -[4464.86 --> 4469.86] Imagine if we actually treated each other that way. -[4469.86 --> 4473.86] We actually longed for each other in that way. -[4473.86 --> 4477.86] We are close family. -[4477.86 --> 4482.86] Peter says, be compassionate. -[4482.86 --> 4488.86] I want to be clear because sometimes we think about compassion as just another word for sympathy. -[4488.86 --> 4495.86] But in fact, again, in Greek, it's not even a word about conduct, but it's about your insides. -[4495.86 --> 4499.86] Literally, it means your innards, your belly. -[4499.86 --> 4504.86] Right? The literal translation of the Greek word here means feel generous in your belly. -[4504.86 --> 4511.86] Now, in the ancient Near East, the seat of human emotion was rooted in the stomach. -[4511.86 --> 4513.86] Your feelings were in your gut. -[4513.86 --> 4515.86] We kind of carry this over, right? -[4515.86 --> 4518.86] We have that expression, I just have a gut feeling about this. -[4518.86 --> 4520.86] That's the same idea. -[4520.86 --> 4523.86] Now, in our culture, the seat of emotions is the heart. -[4523.86 --> 4529.86] But Peter here, he's not giving us instructions about necessarily what to do, but how to be. -[4529.86 --> 4537.86] He's saying, be generous, be well disposed to each other in your deeps, way down in your gut. -[4537.86 --> 4538.86] Right? -[4538.86 --> 4545.86] And so here, it's about an authenticity and an integrity all the way through. -[4545.86 --> 4546.86] Right? -[4546.86 --> 4560.86] And so, it's the opposite of hypocrisy that acts tender on the outside, that says nice things on the outside, but on the inside feels right, angry, and jealous, and judging. -[4560.86 --> 4569.86] But Peter is saying all the way down deep, be generous and well disposed to each other. -[4569.86 --> 4573.86] Through and through, be for each other. -[4573.86 --> 4578.86] And Peter says, be humble. -[4578.86 --> 4591.86] Now, C.S. Lewis once said, and this has stuck with me forever, that true humility is not thinking less of yourself, it's thinking of yourself less. -[4591.86 --> 4592.86] Right? -[4592.86 --> 4595.86] Humility is putting others first. -[4595.86 --> 4600.86] And so, imagine what you might do if you put the person in front of you first. -[4600.86 --> 4608.86] Imagine what you might do or what your life might look like if you put that guy ahead of yourself. -[4608.86 --> 4611.86] Is my intonation clear enough on what I'm intending there? -[4611.86 --> 4612.86] Right? -[4612.86 --> 4617.86] If you made even her, yeah, her, higher than you. -[4617.86 --> 4624.86] Imagine what our life together would be like if we could do this. -[4624.86 --> 4635.86] Now, notice that these descriptors of how you and I are supposed to be together start with something on the inside. -[4635.86 --> 4640.86] It's a way of seeing each other before it is a way of doing certain things. -[4640.86 --> 4645.86] It's about heart attitudes or gut attitudes to each other. -[4645.86 --> 4658.86] And then second, notice that all of these attitudes, all of these ways of being in the world are supremely exemplified in the life and person of Jesus Christ himself. -[4658.86 --> 4659.86] Right? -[4659.86 --> 4663.86] This is the same point from the previous section because Peter has been building. -[4663.86 --> 4664.86] Right? -[4664.86 --> 4669.86] In this section, Jesus is held up as our example in all of these things. -[4669.86 --> 4670.86] In chapter 2, verse 21, -[4670.86 --> 4679.86] To this you were called because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example that you should follow in his footsteps. -[4679.86 --> 4680.86] Right? -[4680.86 --> 4684.86] Jesus is the truly harmonious one. -[4684.86 --> 4686.86] He is the true and better sympathizer. -[4686.86 --> 4691.86] He is the true and better brother who loved sacrificially unto death on the cross. -[4691.86 --> 4698.86] Jesus is the true compassionate one whose gut was pierced for our transgressions. -[4698.86 --> 4703.86] Jesus is the one who lived the life I should have lived and died the death that I deserve. -[4703.86 --> 4717.86] Jesus is the one who three days later was raised and who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God with angels and authorities and powers in submission to him. -[4717.86 --> 4731.86] Because he has done this, he now by grace through faith in the operation of the Holy Spirit makes you willing and ready from now on to live for him. -[4731.86 --> 4742.86] Because Jesus did that for us, it changes the way that we see and be and interact with each other. -[4742.86 --> 4750.34] And then Peter's second point is that it changes the way we see and be and interact with the pagan world around us. -[4752.60 --> 4756.82] Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? -[4757.56 --> 4762.96] But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. -[4763.90 --> 4765.32] Do not fear their threats. -[4766.38 --> 4767.22] Do not be frightened. -[4767.22 --> 4779.12] And Peter is saying, right, that when you do good, the world should see that and know. -[4780.16 --> 4788.80] But even if they don't, or perhaps exactly when they don't, when it doesn't make sense to them, -[4788.86 --> 4793.40] when it doesn't add up in the way that you want it to and it's supposed to, -[4793.40 --> 4799.44] and they react negatively or they judge you or they accuse you of doing wrong, -[4799.50 --> 4802.08] like he says in chapter 2 verse 11, -[4803.08 --> 4810.70] even when that is your reality, you are blessed. -[4813.68 --> 4816.38] When have you felt like suffering was a blessing? -[4818.68 --> 4820.58] That's what Peter wants to invite you into. -[4820.58 --> 4825.96] When have you felt afraid? -[4827.94 --> 4829.12] Peter's saying, don't be. -[4830.54 --> 4835.58] Because you have Jesus who went before you and is now in this with you. -[4836.88 --> 4839.24] Instead, even when you're being accused of doing wrong, -[4839.40 --> 4840.90] even when you're suffering, -[4841.10 --> 4844.50] even when what you are doing doesn't make sense to the world, -[4845.50 --> 4850.34] in your hearts, revere Christ as Lord. -[4851.40 --> 4855.78] When you are revering Christ as Lord, these things will happen. -[4856.36 --> 4865.00] And as they do, always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. -[4866.04 --> 4868.02] Always be prepared. -[4868.02 --> 4872.84] Have a response ready for why do you do this? -[4874.18 --> 4875.22] What is your, -[4875.38 --> 4877.40] because the love of Christ compels me? -[4878.04 --> 4881.58] What is your reason for being here right now? -[4881.58 --> 4886.00] What is your reason for saying no to this event or that event? -[4886.06 --> 4890.56] What is your reason for leaving that group of friends behind as God was getting a hold of your life? -[4890.64 --> 4894.06] What is your reason for saying yes to Jesus? -[4894.06 --> 4900.30] Always be prepared. -[4901.88 --> 4904.80] Always be prepared. -[4905.66 --> 4911.32] But do this with gentleness and respect. -[4911.32 --> 4925.84] Some of us are unsure of how to give an answer or a reason for the hope that we have. -[4925.84 --> 4931.30] And so we give more weight to the fear that we feel in that moment and don't say anything. -[4932.74 --> 4940.06] And some of us, trying to give an answer, haven't quite figured out how to be gentle and respectful. -[4940.06 --> 4953.78] And we become exactly what the culture is trying to make us in one of those two ways in combat with the other. -[4954.66 --> 4959.20] We are offered here a third way. -[4959.20 --> 4971.28] But again, even if you figure out this humility thing, even if you figure out this gentleness and respect thing, -[4971.28 --> 4979.08] it is still possible to suffer for doing good and for doing evil. -[4980.72 --> 4984.32] That suffering may yet still happen. -[4984.32 --> 4990.28] But here, too, Christ is your example. -[4991.86 --> 4996.84] For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. -[4997.14 --> 5001.06] He was put to death in the body but made alive in the spirit. -[5002.08 --> 5005.82] He has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God. -[5005.82 --> 5005.86] God. -[5005.86 --> 5015.12] There is a war of cultural identity going on in the world right now. -[5015.64 --> 5022.68] Whether it's left or right, progressive or conservative, it's in religion, it's in politics, it's local, and it's global. -[5022.84 --> 5025.30] It is in social settings, and it's in families. -[5026.90 --> 5031.94] God's word is telling us that we are something else. -[5032.46 --> 5034.68] We are a third way. -[5034.68 --> 5037.46] You are beloved of God. -[5037.58 --> 5041.14] You are elect exiles, foreigners, and strangers. -[5041.40 --> 5043.70] You are something else. -[5044.24 --> 5047.14] And so, do not be afraid. -[5047.78 --> 5052.20] Go and be something that the pagan world has never seen. -[5054.10 --> 5056.48] Be like Jesus in the world. -[5057.60 --> 5058.62] Do not be afraid. -[5058.62 --> 5066.78] Even if you struggle or suffer because you are beloved of God, do not be afraid. -[5067.80 --> 5069.86] You are his son. -[5070.54 --> 5072.86] You are his daughter. -[5073.52 --> 5076.22] Do not fear. -[5077.00 --> 5078.04] Do not be frightened. -[5078.80 --> 5083.94] But in your hearts, revere Christ as Lord. -[5083.94 --> 5087.36] And everyone said, Amen. -[5088.08 --> 5088.96] Let's pray together. -[5088.96 --> 5105.74] Lord Jesus Christ, we revere you as Lord. -[5105.74 --> 5113.02] And so, by your perfect love, remove our fears. -[5113.60 --> 5114.96] That we might go. -[5116.04 --> 5122.20] That we might go prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks for the reason, for the hope that we have. -[5122.74 --> 5125.26] We might do this with gentleness and respect. -[5125.26 --> 5129.50] And Lord God, send us out now. -[5130.54 --> 5134.26] That we might together be like-minded in harmony. -[5134.76 --> 5139.18] That we might be a model of sympathy for one another. -[5139.24 --> 5141.36] That we might love one another as brothers and sisters. -[5141.36 --> 5142.94] That we might be compassionate. -[5143.04 --> 5148.28] That we might share in the feelings of way down deep in our cores. -[5148.28 --> 5153.40] That we might be humbled together. -[5155.40 --> 5160.40] Transform us into this kind of family. -[5163.68 --> 5168.42] That though the world may accuse us of doing wrong, they may see our good deeds. -[5168.98 --> 5171.84] That they may glorify you. -[5171.84 --> 5175.50] Soli Deo Gloria. -[5175.72 --> 5179.12] To the glory of God alone we pray. -[5180.44 --> 5181.02] Amen. -[5201.84 --> 5215.10] The mighty rock on which we're built. -[5215.10 --> 5220.58] In every lie the truth is found. -[5221.44 --> 5226.12] And every bridge with glowing air. -[5226.12 --> 5234.52] Through faith alone we come to you. -[5234.52 --> 5240.12] We have no merit we can take. -[5240.76 --> 5245.38] Sure that your promises are true. -[5246.42 --> 5251.28] We place our hope in Jesus' name. -[5252.18 --> 5253.18] Gloria. -[5254.92 --> 5255.62] Gloria. -[5256.12 --> 5258.06] Gloria. -[5258.06 --> 5258.22] Gloria. -[5258.56 --> 5259.18] Gloria. -[5259.96 --> 5260.06] Gloria. -[5264.34 --> 5266.28] Gloria. -[5266.34 --> 5266.56] Gloria. -[5266.80 --> 5268.06] Gloria. -[5268.06 --> 5268.50] Gloria. -[5268.50 --> 5269.18] Gloria. -[5269.18 --> 5269.30] Gloria. -[5269.30 --> 5269.72] Gloria. -[5269.96 --> 5270.26] Gloria. -[5270.26 --> 5270.98] Gloria. -[5270.98 --> 5271.62] Gloria. -[5272.94 --> 5273.08] Gloria. -[5273.46 --> 5275.76] Gloria. -[5281.40 --> 5282.44] Gloria. -[5282.44 --> 5282.56] Gloria. -[5282.56 --> 5283.52] Gloria. -[5283.52 --> 5284.24] Gloria. -[5284.24 --> 5284.48] Gloria. -[5284.68 --> 5285.32] Gloria. -[5285.32 --> 5285.54] Gloria. -[5285.54 --> 5285.68] Gloria. -[5285.68 --> 5285.72] Gloria. -[5285.72 --> 5286.10] Gloria. -[5286.10 --> 5286.12] Gloria. Arc. Lauti. y. V.esen.angas pessoal. -[5286.12 --> 5292.12] His righteousness is of our King -[5292.12 --> 5297.12] Your lost demands are satisfied -[5297.12 --> 5303.12] His perfect work has set us free -[5303.12 --> 5307.82] Gloria, Gloria -[5307.82 --> 5314.12] Glory to God alone -[5314.12 --> 5320.12] Gloria, Gloria -[5320.12 --> 5326.12] Glory to God alone -[5334.12 --> 5339.12] By grace alone we have been saved -[5339.12 --> 5345.12] All that we are has come from you -[5345.12 --> 5351.12] Hearts that were once by sin enslave -[5351.12 --> 5356.12] Now by your power has been made true -[5356.12 --> 5362.12] Gloria, Gloria -[5362.12 --> 5368.12] Glory to God alone -[5368.12 --> 5373.12] Gloria, Gloria -[5373.12 --> 5379.12] Glory to God alone -[5379.12 --> 5391.12] And on this Reformation Day -[5391.12 --> 5397.12] We join with saints of old to sing -[5397.12 --> 5403.12] We lift our hearts as one in praise -[5403.12 --> 5408.12] Glory to Christ our gracious King -[5408.12 --> 5414.12] Gloria, Gloria -[5414.12 --> 5420.12] Glory to God alone -[5420.12 --> 5425.12] Gloria, Gloria -[5425.12 --> 5430.12] Glory to God alone -[5430.12 --> 5436.12] Gloria, Gloria -[5436.12 --> 5438.12] Glory to God alone -[5438.12 --> 5441.12] Gloria, Gloria -[5441.12 --> 5452.24] Gloria, Gloria, glory to God alone. -[5452.24 --> 5473.40] One of the beautiful legacies of the Reformation is the restoring of singing to the congregation -[5473.40 --> 5478.30] and of singing to the church, not just a choir of professionals up front, -[5478.30 --> 5483.22] but everybody singing in one voice together. -[5484.08 --> 5486.40] And for that, we give thanks to God. -[5487.60 --> 5492.18] There's also a more scarring legacy of the Reformation, -[5492.94 --> 5499.48] in that the Reformation may also be the source of the greatest divisions that the Christian church has ever seen, -[5499.54 --> 5501.90] and we live in that legacy as well. -[5502.12 --> 5506.86] And so cognizant of that, we're going to end our service before receiving God's blessing -[5506.86 --> 5512.06] by professing our shared faith together using the words of the Apostles' Creed. -[5513.06 --> 5513.26] Right? -[5513.30 --> 5519.02] A creed that has been spoken by the church in various forms since its near inception. -[5520.20 --> 5523.76] And to be clear, the Apostles' Creed doesn't mean that it was written by the apostles, -[5524.02 --> 5528.00] but that it accurately summarizes the teaching of the apostles. -[5528.00 --> 5534.54] The creed that we have in its current form is a translation from a 7th century Latin creed -[5534.54 --> 5536.62] that had earlier forms as well. -[5537.20 --> 5543.84] But we reflect here on the disunity that has been caused by things like the Reformation -[5543.84 --> 5545.52] and the selfishness of our own hearts, -[5545.88 --> 5550.22] but also on the spiritual unity of the church Catholic, -[5550.60 --> 5553.50] that is, all times and all places everywhere. -[5553.74 --> 5556.48] That is our faith tradition. -[5556.48 --> 5561.74] And so with one voice, we profess our shared faith. -[5562.52 --> 5568.24] I believe in God the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. -[5568.88 --> 5573.20] I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, -[5573.92 --> 5578.34] who was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. -[5579.02 --> 5584.34] He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. -[5584.34 --> 5586.40] He descended to hell. -[5587.14 --> 5589.80] Third day, he rose again from the dead. -[5590.50 --> 5596.00] He ascended to heaven and is seated at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. -[5596.70 --> 5600.38] From there, he will come to judge the living and the dead. -[5600.38 --> 5605.58] I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Holy Catholic Church, -[5606.34 --> 5609.86] the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, -[5610.44 --> 5614.14] the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. -[5615.06 --> 5615.50] Amen. -[5617.12 --> 5620.98] Standing together, receive God's blessing. -[5620.98 --> 5626.74] May God go before you to lead you. -[5627.44 --> 5629.82] May God go behind you to guard you. -[5630.54 --> 5632.88] May God go beneath you to support you. -[5633.14 --> 5635.76] And may God go beside you to befriend you. -[5636.22 --> 5638.24] Do not be afraid. -[5639.24 --> 5641.32] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5641.72 --> 5643.56] Do not be afraid, -[5643.56 --> 5649.32] but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5650.32 --> 5651.08] Amen. -[5651.08 --> 5651.14] Amen. -[5673.56 --> 5673.86] shit below. -[5673.86 --> 5678.62] P. -[5678.70 --> 5691.74] END -[5698.02 --> 5698.84] F. -[5699.24 --> 5700.46] Th через -[5700.46 --> 5700.56] . -[5703.56 --> 5715.76] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul. -[5716.18 --> 5729.56] In my life and in death, to you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[5729.56 --> 5742.98] You preserve my life in such a way that without you, not a hair can fall from me unless you will it too. -[5744.02 --> 5755.44] Even when I'm lost in desperation, all things work together for my salvation. -[5755.44 --> 5767.64] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul. -[5768.46 --> 5781.26] In my life and in death, to you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[5781.26 --> 5811.24] I am not my own, but belong. -[5811.24 --> 5813.24] I am not my own, but belong. -[5813.24 --> 5819.24] In my life and in my life, I am not my own. -[5819.24 --> 5824.24] In my life and in my life, I am not my own, but belong. -[5824.24 --> 5831.28] way through from now on to always live for you -[5835.92 --> 5839.28] i am not my home -[5843.84 --> 5847.28] body and soul -[5854.24 --> 5858.72] you lord christ my lord -[5861.60 --> 5881.60] i am not my own but belong body and soul in my life and in death to you lord -[5881.60 --> 5885.60] christ my lord -[5885.60 --> 5890.96] i am not my own -[5890.96 --> 5896.96] would -[5896.96 --> 5898.96] and -[5902.00 --> 5912.96] and -[5912.96 --> 5942.94] Thank you. -[5942.96 --> 5972.94] Thank you. -[5972.96 --> 6002.94] Thank you. -[6002.96 --> 6032.94] Thank you. -[6032.96 --> 6062.94] Thank you. -[6062.96 --> 6092.94] Thank you. -[6092.96 --> 6122.94] Thank you. -[6122.96 --> 6152.94] Thank you. -[6152.96 --> 6182.94] Thank you. -[6182.96 --> 6212.94] Thank you. -[6212.94 --> 6242.92] Thank you. -[6242.94 --> 6272.92] Thank you. -[6272.94 --> 6302.92] Thank you. -[6302.94 --> 6332.92] Thank you. -[6332.94 --> 6362.92] Thank you. -[6362.94 --> 6392.92] Thank you. -[6392.94 --> 6422.92] Thank you. -[6422.94 --> 6452.92] Thank you. -[6452.94 --> 6482.92] Thank you. -[6482.92 --> 6512.90] Thank you. diff --git a/Exiles in a Pagan Land - The Humble Community November 14, 2021_summary.txt b/Exiles in a Pagan Land - The Humble Community November 14, 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ee6881d31fee55a58d5caf77c72ca9e07f0a46eb..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Exiles in a Pagan Land - The Humble Community November 14, 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,82 +0,0 @@ -• Declaration of victory -• Claiming God's authority in battle -• Turning the enemy's plans forward -• Miracles and healing through faith -• Overcoming lies and adversity with confidence -• Jesus' love breaking chains and overcoming grave -• Blindness and sickness overcome -• Living again through faith and trust in God -• Repeated phrases of "and I know" or "you" without clear context -• Worship service announcements -• Upcoming events: - • Praise and prayer gathering next Sunday at 6:30 p.m. - • Kids choir practice after this service - • Potluck for young adults on Friday at 7 p.m. -• Upcoming youth activity open to grades 10-12 and adults -• Parent team meeting to gauge interest in the activity -• Email invitations will be sent out to youth parents within two weeks -• Adults interested in attending can text or email the organizer -• Discussion of church repairs, including painting and carpeting -• Need for $80,000 to replace chairs in the sanctuary -• Fundraising campaign called "Chairs and Squares" -• Donations can be made by filling out a form that will be sent via mail -• The joy of the Lord is emphasized as a source of strength and hope. -• Worship involves singing together and praying silently. -• God's mercy and grace are acknowledged. -• A passage from Matthew 25:34-40 is read about blessing those who care for the poor and needy. -• An update on Ariel and Jody, missionaries serving in Mexico through C10, is shared. -• Parable of the Sheep and the Goats, based on Matthew 25:31-46 -• Kingdom prepared for those who help "the least of these" -• Offering announced for Diaculum Ministries of Canada -• Worship service transitions into children's worship time -• Discussion about packing for a long trip to church or elsewhere -• Introduction to the story of the Israelites' journey in Exodus, to be discussed during children's worship time -• Upcoming congregational meeting on December 6th and reminder to review budget information -• Church community prayer and gratitude for gathering together -• Thanking God for church leaders, staff, and members of council -• Praying for specific church ministries, such as Cadets, Gems, and Youth groups -• Requesting comfort and strength for individuals facing health needs (Willie, Joanne, Bob, Benita, Janet) -• Interceding for the world during the COVID-19 pandemic and related challenges -• Asking for wisdom and guidance for leaders and those in public health roles -• Seeking patience and humility as community members face life struggles -• Praying for Pastor Chris's leadership and for the congregation to learn from God's word. -• Discussion of humility and its connection to God's favor -• Introduction to the concept of "visualization" or "guided imagery" in sports psychology -• Application of this concept to Christian living, specifically envisioning one's future in Christ -• The importance of an unshakeable hope beyond this life for enduring trials and suffering -• Discussion of submission to human authority, including slaves, wives, husbands, and all people, as a key aspect of living in light of God's greater reality -• The economy of the gospel is one of mutual submission, where wives submit to husbands as an example of Jesus' selfless service. -• True submission can only be accomplished through a deep understanding of God's perfect love, which drives out fear and brings hope for eternal life. -• Living according to the gospel requires a perspective that includes the end of history and the celestial city of God, allowing believers to see their suffering as participation in Christ's sufferings. -• Suffering can be transformed into rejoicing through the promise of future overjoicing at the full revelation of God's glory. -• Believers should not try to change others, but rather focus on changing themselves and their perspective through the unshakable hope of living in a gospel-centered way. -• When believers are transformed by this hope, they have an impact that changes the world and transforms communities. -• Christian hope is otherworldly, focusing on things above rather than earthly concerns, and rejecting the paganism of seeing only this world as all there is. -• The importance of rejoicing in light of God's consummation and glory -• The need for an otherworldly mindset to make sense of anything in the world -• Peter's discussion on being a humble community, specifically addressing elders -• The responsibility of elders to care for and shepherd God's flock -• The need for leaders (elders) to be captivated by truth and live with purpose and joy -• The importance of submission to authority, both within the church and outside it -• The importance of humility in the life of a Christian community -• The need to think beyond history and focus on eternal hope -• Casting anxiety on God, who cares for us -• Visualizing and experiencing the world to come through faith -• Transformed lives and hearts as a result of living out one's faith -• Praying for humility, truth, and transformation in oneself and others -• Praise and worship of Jesus Christ -• Song lyrics about living for God, trust, and salvation -• Sports psychologist's quote about experiencing something through all senses -• Explanation of the Lord's Supper (Eucharist) and its significance -• Invitation to come to God's table in faith and obedience -• Preparing for communion -• Distribution of elements with masks on -• Reading of scripture related to God's love and forgiveness -• Singing hymns, including "Amazing Grace" -• Reflections and prayers regarding the cross and God's gift of salvation -• Partaking in communion and remembering Christ's sacrifice -• Invocation of God's blessing and protection -• Blessing and grace received as they leave the place -• Praise and worship of God, including Father, Son, and Holy Spirit -• Expression of gratitude for the gift of God and blessings received -• Miscellaneous phrases and words (likely unrelated to the main content) \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Exiles in a Pagan Land - The Humble Community November 14, 2021_transcript.txt b/Exiles in a Pagan Land - The Humble Community November 14, 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c6fd3a5f82a796a6e447662fe00fed40a5f4f354..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Exiles in a Pagan Land - The Humble Community November 14, 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1096 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 27.00] I'm gonna see a victory -[27.00 --> 33.00] For the battle belongs to you, Lord -[33.00 --> 36.00] I'm gonna see a victory -[36.00 --> 39.00] I'm gonna see a victory -[39.00 --> 45.00] For the battle belongs to you, Lord -[45.00 --> 48.00] I'm gonna see a victory -[48.00 --> 52.00] I'm gonna see a victory -[52.00 --> 58.00] For the battle belongs to you, Lord -[58.00 --> 61.00] I'm gonna see a victory -[61.00 --> 65.00] I'm gonna see a victory, yeah -[65.00 --> 70.00] For the battle belongs to you, Lord -[70.00 --> 75.00] You take what the enemy may be -[75.00 --> 78.00] And you turn it forward -[78.00 --> 82.00] You turn it forward -[82.00 --> 85.00] You turn it around -[85.00 --> 88.00] You take what the enemy may be -[88.00 --> 91.00] And you turn it forward -[91.00 --> 93.00] You turn it forward -[93.00 --> 98.00] You turn it forward -[98.00 --> 101.00] You take what the enemy may be -[101.00 --> 103.00] You're working it up -[103.00 --> 107.00] You're working it for all my God -[107.00 --> 115.90] Come on and give a shout out and lift you. -[117.22 --> 119.10] Lift you, boy. -[120.10 --> 121.96] Lift you, boy. -[121.96 --> 124.46] Hey. -[137.00 --> 166.98] Lift you, boy. -[167.00 --> 169.86] You know my name. -[170.70 --> 173.30] You know my story. -[175.30 --> 179.16] No mountain could ever stop. -[179.40 --> 182.76] The plans you made. -[183.80 --> 186.60] Your heart is for me. -[188.18 --> 190.86] I believe in your name. -[191.48 --> 194.26] Marriacles will happen. -[194.26 --> 197.42] I believe in your name. -[198.00 --> 200.88] Marriacles will happen. -[202.18 --> 205.24] The blind will see. -[205.98 --> 208.40] The sick will stay. -[209.40 --> 211.64] Sing hallelujah. -[212.12 --> 214.36] With confidence. -[214.36 --> 218.60] Let healing come. -[219.32 --> 220.72] Let mercy. -[222.28 --> 224.68] Sing hallelujah. -[225.96 --> 227.96] And live again. -[227.96 --> 237.56] When the lies come from every side. -[238.94 --> 241.02] To say you're done. -[242.02 --> 244.80] To say it's over. -[244.80 --> 245.80] I'll remember. -[245.80 --> 250.62] I'll remember the thousand times. -[251.10 --> 254.02] Your love has won. -[255.02 --> 257.84] This is far from over. -[257.84 --> 262.22] I believe in your name. -[262.22 --> 262.24] I believe in your name. -[262.24 --> 265.72] Miracles will happen. -[265.72 --> 268.72] I believe in your name. -[269.32 --> 272.26] Miracles will happen. -[272.26 --> 273.36] Yes. -[273.36 --> 273.38] Yes. -[273.38 --> 276.44] The blind will see. -[277.44 --> 279.86] The sick will stay. -[280.86 --> 282.98] Sing hallelujah. -[284.10 --> 286.26] With confidence. -[287.44 --> 289.72] Let healing come. -[290.60 --> 292.88] Let mercy in. -[292.88 --> 295.04] Sing hallelujah. -[295.04 --> 299.30] In live again. -[301.72 --> 305.64] In live again. -[305.64 --> 327.84] Jesus, Jesus -[327.84 --> 332.98] Your love is breaking chains right now -[332.98 --> 334.94] Right now -[334.94 --> 340.84] Jesus, Jesus -[340.84 --> 345.98] Your overturning grave right now -[345.98 --> 347.96] Right now -[347.96 --> 353.82] Jesus, Jesus -[353.82 --> 358.98] Your love is breaking chains right now -[358.98 --> 360.84] Right now -[360.84 --> 363.80] Nothing can stop you -[363.80 --> 366.70] Jesus, Jesus -[366.70 --> 371.70] Your overturning grave right now -[371.70 --> 373.70] Right now -[373.70 --> 375.60] Oh -[375.60 --> 379.60] The blind will see -[379.60 --> 383.60] The sick will stand -[383.60 --> 386.74] Sing hallelujah -[386.74 --> 389.60] With confidence -[389.60 --> 393.60] Let healing call -[393.60 --> 396.50] Let mercy in -[396.50 --> 399.50] Sing hallelujah -[399.50 --> 403.50] And live again -[403.50 --> 404.40] And live again -[404.40 --> 414.32] You're gonna live -[414.32 --> 416.40] You're gonna live again -[416.40 --> 422.40] You're gonna live again -[422.40 --> 425.40] Sing hallelujah -[425.40 --> 428.40] And live again -[428.40 --> 430.30] I'm gonna live again -[430.30 --> 435.30] I'm gonna live again -[435.30 --> 436.30] I'm gonna live again -[436.30 --> 444.20] To be continued -[444.20 --> 446.20] I'm gonna live again -[446.20 --> 447.20] I'm gonna live again -[447.20 --> 448.14] I'm gonna live again -[448.14 --> 478.12] Thank you. -[478.14 --> 490.14] me -[493.26 --> 498.14] you can do all things -[499.10 --> 507.90] you can do all things but they'll cause you've never lost a battle no you've never -[507.90 --> 517.90] lost a battle and i know i know you never will -[520.22 --> 525.90] everything's possible by the power of the holy ghost -[531.90 --> 535.90] breaking my heart of stone taking over like hysterical -[537.90 --> 543.90] and my walls are all crashing down -[543.90 --> 547.90] right now i know you're able -[547.90 --> 549.90] to keep -[549.90 --> 553.90] people -[553.90 --> 555.90] and my god -[555.90 --> 557.90] come through again -[557.90 --> 559.90] and i know you're able to keep -[559.90 --> 563.90] people -[563.90 --> 565.90] and i know you're able to keep -[565.90 --> 567.90] people -[567.90 --> 569.90] and i know i know -[569.90 --> 571.90] no you've never -[571.90 --> 573.90] and i know -[573.90 --> 575.90] i know -[575.90 --> 577.90] you never -[577.90 --> 579.90] you -[579.90 --> 581.90] and i know -[581.90 --> 583.90] you -[583.90 --> 585.90] and i know -[585.90 --> 587.90] you -[587.90 --> 589.90] and i know -[589.90 --> 591.90] you -[591.90 --> 593.90] and i know -[593.90 --> 595.90] you -[595.90 --> 597.90] and i know -[597.90 --> 599.90] you -[599.90 --> 601.90] and i know -[601.90 --> 603.90] you -[603.90 --> 605.90] and i know -[605.90 --> 607.90] you -[607.90 --> 609.90] and i know -[609.90 --> 611.90] you -[611.90 --> 613.90] and i know -[613.90 --> 615.90] you -[615.90 --> 617.90] you -[617.90 --> 619.90] and i know -[619.90 --> 621.90] you -[621.90 --> 623.90] and i know -[623.90 --> 625.90] you -[625.90 --> 627.90] and i know -[627.90 --> 629.90] you -[629.90 --> 631.90] and i know -[631.90 --> 633.90] you -[633.90 --> 635.90] and i know -[635.90 --> 637.90] you -[637.90 --> 639.90] and i know -[639.90 --> 653.90] are -[653.90 --> 655.90] this -[655.90 --> 657.90] this -[657.90 --> 659.90] worship -[659.90 --> 661.90] god -[661.90 --> 668.48] How is the time to give your love -[668.48 --> 675.88] Just as you are to worship -[675.88 --> 685.70] Just as you are before your love -[685.70 --> 694.08] What may every time you dance in my heart -[694.08 --> 698.44] What may every need for love -[698.44 --> 703.10] Still in this tragedy remains for those -[703.10 --> 708.16] Who I need you, you are -[708.16 --> 717.16] Come, how is the time to worship -[717.16 --> 726.16] Come, how is the time to give your love -[726.16 --> 735.16] Come, just as you are to worship -[735.16 --> 741.16] Come, how is the time to worship -[741.16 --> 745.16] Just as you are before your love -[745.16 --> 750.16] Come, how is the time to worship -[750.16 --> 754.16] What may every time you confess you are one -[754.16 --> 758.16] What may every need for love -[758.16 --> 762.16] Still in this tragedy remains for those -[762.16 --> 768.16] Who I need you, you are -[768.16 --> 772.16] Building me, we choose to surrender our love -[772.16 --> 776.16] Building me, our needs are mine -[776.16 --> 781.16] With all our hearts, our minds and strength -[781.16 --> 788.16] We gladly do, you are -[788.16 --> 796.16] Come, how is the time to worship -[796.16 --> 805.16] Come, how is the time to give your love -[805.16 --> 810.16] Come, just as you are to worship -[810.16 --> 820.16] Just as you are before your love -[820.16 --> 824.16] Just as you are before your love -[824.16 --> 825.16] Come, how is the time to worship -[825.16 --> 827.16] Just as you are before your love -[827.16 --> 831.16] Come, how is the time to worship -[831.16 --> 861.14] Good morning. -[861.16 --> 891.14] Good morning. -[891.16 --> 893.16] Good morning. -[893.16 --> 897.16] Good morning. -[897.16 --> 899.16] Good morning. -[899.16 --> 901.16] Good morning. -[901.16 --> 903.16] Good morning. -[903.16 --> 905.16] Good morning. -[905.16 --> 907.16] Good morning. -[907.16 --> 909.16] Good morning. -[909.16 --> 911.16] Good morning. -[911.16 --> 913.16] Good morning. -[913.16 --> 923.16] Good morning. -[923.16 --> 929.22] here and so we're excited just to see these changes taking place and to be part of that and -[929.22 --> 935.86] so keep your eyes out for that. Additionally, I want to just bring to your attention -[935.86 --> 943.84] that next week, Sunday night, we are gathering together for what we're calling praise and prayer. -[944.46 --> 951.60] So it's an opportunity to gather here at 6 30 p.m. for worship, song, and prayer. You can do that -[951.60 --> 959.40] here in person or online as we gather to worship our God together and so the idea is to sing some -[959.40 --> 966.72] brand new songs, sing some old favorites, just to gather together and worship our good God. -[968.00 --> 974.38] Also, there's kids choir practice following this service and so you are encouraged to meet -[974.38 --> 983.86] at 11 30 or whenever service ends, depending on if I run long this morning, but 11 30 is your target -[983.86 --> 992.34] and mine, I promise, in the multi-purpose room which is just out there. You can follow Mark and the kids -[992.34 --> 997.72] as they go that way. Leslie and Brandon, you have announcements too, right? You're making your way -[997.72 --> 1006.56] there. Okay. And for the young adults among us, there is a potluck this coming Friday at 7 p.m. -[1006.56 --> 1010.62] If you have any questions about that, you can talk to Josh. Josh, wave your hand. There he is. -[1011.22 --> 1017.34] You're encouraged to come. You can come here early to prepare your food or you can cook it at home, -[1017.46 --> 1022.52] wherever that is, and then bring it in for that. Who's going first? -[1022.52 --> 1030.34] All right. Good morning. So, Mexico announcement again. So, we are looking at doing Mexico again -[1030.34 --> 1034.52] this year. It's looking pretty good with what the restrictions are, what we have to do and all that -[1034.52 --> 1039.04] fun stuff. But we just wanted to gauge because it's kind of twofold. I mean, the government's -[1039.04 --> 1042.56] allowing us to do it, but then whether you guys are actually going to want to do it, that's a totally -[1042.56 --> 1049.04] different ballpark, right? So, we're going to do in the next two weeks here, anybody grade 10 to 12, -[1049.04 --> 1054.02] as well as any adults who would like to come, whether it be for building, just seeing what we -[1054.02 --> 1058.20] do, yada, yada, yada, or being a youth leader. You're welcome to come out. We're going to do -[1058.20 --> 1063.86] like a kind of a parent team meeting first before we actually do the sign up. Just to gauge your -[1063.86 --> 1067.12] guys' kind of interest, and if you have any questions, we can answer those at that time, -[1067.24 --> 1072.00] and kind of just, we're going to do the little flip on it. So, within the next two weeks, I will be -[1072.00 --> 1076.24] sending an email out to all the youth parents anyway, so to see if you're interested, come along, -[1076.24 --> 1080.30] come out to the meeting. If you guys aren't going to go to the meeting, but your kids are still going -[1080.30 --> 1083.68] to come, and you just don't care, then please email me back saying that, too, just so we can get the -[1083.68 --> 1088.68] numbers. Don't just not email, then we don't assume that there's no team coming. Same thing for adults, -[1088.72 --> 1092.30] you're welcome to that meeting. I won't be emailing everybody in the church, so if you're an adult that -[1092.30 --> 1096.58] wants to come, please just text me, or email me, or yada, yada, yada. So, we just get those numbers going. -[1097.32 --> 1101.36] But yeah, it's looking pretty good, so hopefully we can kind of get it going, but I'll send that out -[1101.36 --> 1102.30] probably within the next week. -[1105.60 --> 1112.90] Matt, am I okay over here or not? Yeah? So, Chris already mentioned that we've seen some painting done, -[1112.96 --> 1119.50] which looks fantastic. My understanding is that's been funded by regular church repair budget. We have -[1119.50 --> 1126.02] a beautiful stage here, and I don't know if you're into having plywood stuff in your house, but I think it -[1126.02 --> 1133.56] needs to be covered. So, the carpet is coming for that, and we've also already ordered the carpet for -[1133.56 --> 1140.98] the whole sanctuary to come up to the new gray scheme that we're doing here. My understanding is -[1140.98 --> 1145.10] we had to order that carpet because it was going out of production, so it's been ordered, it's being -[1145.10 --> 1151.42] paid for, but we're using up all the repair funds to do so, and that wasn't the idea. So, they asked me -[1151.42 --> 1157.14] if I would come along and help raise money, and so these are the carpet tiles that are coming. -[1158.00 --> 1164.46] They're all going through there. It's going to cost about $24,000 to carpet the stage and the -[1164.46 --> 1169.94] sanctuary, and at the same time, I don't know how comfortable you are. Eric, are you comfortable -[1169.94 --> 1177.98] over there in that chair? No? No? Well, this one's pretty comfy, I would say. So, there has been a group -[1177.98 --> 1184.20] that has figured out what should we do about the chairs, and this was the choice. This is an older -[1184.20 --> 1190.44] chair from a local church, so it might look a little bit worn. It's not the chair, but it'll be in a -[1190.44 --> 1196.56] color scheme that goes, but this is the style that we are looking to do. It's about $56,000 to get -[1196.56 --> 1204.60] enough chairs for the sanctuary, and so we need $80,000, and it's my job, along with Sylvia and Dick and Sam -[1204.60 --> 1210.00] are going to help raise that money, and the sooner we raise it, the sooner we can order chairs. We're -[1210.00 --> 1214.10] not going to order them yet. We're going to wait until we've seen the money come in, or at least a -[1214.10 --> 1217.80] good chunk of it, and the first dollars coming in, we'll pay for the carpet that's already been -[1217.80 --> 1224.04] ordered, and then once we raise enough, we'll order some chairs. So, you'll see in the next week a donation -[1224.04 --> 1230.48] form in your mailbox that you can fill out. We'll put a poster board up, and it'll say things like, -[1230.48 --> 1236.00] one chair's $140. This is how much for a chair for your whole family. This is how much to carpet -[1236.00 --> 1241.60] this much of the church. So, just get an idea of what your money's going to. So, open up your -[1241.60 --> 1248.40] wallets. Pray about it over the next week, and when you do donate, it's called Chairs and Squares. -[1248.40 --> 1251.48] That's what you need to designate it as. So, thank you. -[1260.48 --> 1276.08] Okay. Chairs and Squares. Did you catch that? What a great name. I like branding. For those -[1276.08 --> 1281.16] of you who are wondering, we did a pancake breakfast a little while ago. That was fundraising for -[1281.16 --> 1285.60] this very thing. We just didn't know it was called Chairs and Squares at the time. So, we -[1285.60 --> 1292.64] started that campaign already. We need to continue that work in order to do it well. I believe that's -[1292.64 --> 1297.04] it for announcements this morning. Thank you for your patience in that. Can we stand together? -[1298.00 --> 1304.44] We might be called by God into his presence. Receive the greeting of our God. -[1306.76 --> 1314.06] Grace, mercy, and peace to you. From God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, -[1314.06 --> 1320.02] and our Savior through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. All God's people said, -[1321.06 --> 1323.42] Amen. Let's worship God together. -[1326.22 --> 1330.70] As we join together in worship this morning, no matter our circumstances, -[1331.42 --> 1337.16] or how difficult or trying this past week or month or even year has been, -[1337.16 --> 1342.88] we can take joy and comfort in Jesus' invitation to all of us in Matthew 11. -[1344.16 --> 1352.24] Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened. I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn -[1352.24 --> 1360.44] from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, -[1360.44 --> 1367.08] and my burden is light. Please join us as we sing together the joy we have in Jesus Christ. -[1367.08 --> 1371.60] The joy of the Lord will be my first. -[1374.08 --> 1380.08] The joy of the Lord is my hope this is an excellent Сейчас distractions -[1382.08 --> 1383.80] It's for me and my life, that you will give you rest. -[1384.26 --> 1389.02] You will have fun to speak over their world of grace, and you will share it as if you are with Goditeit. -[1389.08 --> 1391.24] The joy of the Lord will be my strength. I will not falter, I will not цве. -[1391.24 --> 1409.48] is -[1415.64 --> 1419.48] is -[1421.24 --> 1435.24] praise the joy of the lord is my strength -[1435.24 --> 1449.24] is -[1451.24 --> 1455.24] the joy of the -[1455.24 --> 1469.24] will be my strength -[1476.52 --> 1483.24] the joy of the lord -[1485.24 --> 1491.24] the joy of the lord -[1501.24 --> 1508.84] as part of worshiping together we also have the opportunity to admit to ourselves and to god -[1508.84 --> 1516.84] that we do not always live as we are called in this time of opening our hearts to god let's remember -[1516.84 --> 1522.84] that god is our merciful god and that he is eager to offer us his grace and love -[1522.84 --> 1536.84] his grace and love let's come to our god in a moment of silent prayer -[1536.84 --> 1550.84] hear our prayers oh god we trust that you our god love us and have forgiven our sinful hearts minds and souls -[1550.84 --> 1568.84] we trust that your mercy and grace are for each one of us who call on jesus as lord and savior -[1568.84 --> 1582.84] through jesus we give you thanks amen -[1582.84 --> 1596.84] so -[1596.84 --> 1606.84] so -[1606.84 --> 1608.84] so -[1608.84 --> 1610.84] so -[1610.84 --> 1614.84] so -[1614.84 --> 1616.84] so -[1616.84 --> 1620.84] so -[1620.84 --> 1624.84] so -[1624.84 --> 1626.84] so -[1626.84 --> 1630.84] so -[1630.84 --> 1632.84] so -[1632.84 --> 1634.84] so -[1634.84 --> 1636.84] so -[1636.84 --> 1646.84] so -[1646.84 --> 1648.84] so -[1648.84 --> 1650.84] so -[1650.84 --> 1652.84] so -[1652.84 --> 1666.84] so -[1666.84 --> 1668.84] so -[1668.84 --> 1670.84] so -[1670.84 --> 1672.84] so -[1672.84 --> 1684.84] so -[1684.84 --> 1686.84] so -[1686.84 --> 1688.84] so -[1688.84 --> 1690.84] so -[1690.84 --> 1704.84] so -[1704.84 --> 1706.84] so -[1706.84 --> 1708.84] so -[1708.84 --> 1710.84] so -[1710.84 --> 1712.84] so -[1712.84 --> 1716.84] so -[1716.84 --> 1724.84] so -[1724.84 --> 1726.84] so -[1726.84 --> 1728.84] so -[1728.84 --> 1730.84] so -[1730.84 --> 1732.84] so -[1732.84 --> 1734.84] so -[1734.84 --> 1736.84] so -[1736.84 --> 1740.84] so -[1740.84 --> 1742.84] so -[1742.84 --> 1744.84] so -[1744.84 --> 1748.84] so -[1748.84 --> 1750.84] so -[1750.84 --> 1754.84] so -[1754.84 --> 1756.84] so -[1756.84 --> 1758.84] so -[1758.84 --> 1760.84] so -[1760.84 --> 1762.84] so -[1762.84 --> 1764.84] you -[1764.84 --> 1768.84] you -[1768.84 --> 1770.84] you -[1770.84 --> 1772.84] you -[1772.84 --> 1774.84] you -[1774.84 --> 1776.84] you -[1776.84 --> 1778.84] you -[1778.84 --> 1780.84] you -[1780.84 --> 1782.84] are my king -[1782.84 --> 1784.84] you -[1784.84 --> 1786.84] are my king -[1786.84 --> 1788.84] you -[1788.84 --> 1790.84] you -[1790.84 --> 1792.84] everything -[1792.84 --> 1794.84] amazing -[1794.84 --> 1796.84] you -[1796.84 --> 1798.84] the -[1798.84 --> 1800.84] my king -[1800.84 --> 1800.92] you -[1800.92 --> 1801.00] but -[1801.00 --> 1801.84] so -[1801.84 --> 1802.84] so -[1802.84 --> 1803.84] amazing -[1803.84 --> 1804.84] how can you -[1804.84 --> 1806.84] you -[1806.84 --> 1808.84] that you -[1808.84 --> 1809.84] the my king -[1809.84 --> 1810.84] would die -[1810.84 --> 1811.84] and teams -[1811.84 --> 1812.84] how can you me -[1812.84 --> 1814.84] that you my king -[1814.84 --> 1816.30] would die for me -[1816.30 --> 1816.84] amazing how can you see -[1816.84 --> 1817.84] that you my king would die for me -[1817.84 --> 1819.34] Cl photos tone -[1819.34 --> 1819.60] really -[1819.60 --> 1820.34] amazing -[1820.34 --> 1820.84] love how can you see -[1820.84 --> 1827.84] I honor you in all I do. -[1827.84 --> 1832.84] I honor you. -[1850.84 --> 1864.84] Good morning. -[1864.84 --> 1870.84] Today's offering is first for our church's budget and second for C10. -[1870.84 --> 1877.84] Ariel and Jody serve under the ministry organization called C10, Commission to Every Nation. -[1877.84 --> 1883.84] One of the ministry God has called them to is El Faro, Men's Clean, Sober, and Living Home. -[1883.84 --> 1889.84] Currently, they house 15 men, all of whom are working full-time. -[1889.84 --> 1896.84] They are working on expanding their housing situation as a home like theirs does not exist in the area of Mexico, -[1896.84 --> 1900.84] and they have a waiting list of men waiting to stay here. -[1900.84 --> 1911.84] Jody continues to teach English women's Bible study at Calvary Rosarito and homeschool Jonathan and his friend Ricky. -[1911.84 --> 1917.84] They have recently taken in two kids and are figuring out living and schooling situations for them. -[1917.84 --> 1923.84] Thank you for your continued love and support through their prayers and financial giving. -[1923.84 --> 1926.84] From Matthew 25, verse 34 to 40. -[1926.84 --> 1929.84] Then the king will say to those on his right, -[1929.84 --> 1938.84] Come, you who are blessed by my father, take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you, since the creation of the world. -[1938.84 --> 1941.84] For I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat. -[1941.84 --> 1944.84] I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink. -[1944.84 --> 1947.84] I was a stranger, and you invited me in. -[1947.84 --> 1949.84] I needed clothes, and you clothed me. -[1949.84 --> 1952.84] I was sick, and you looked after me. -[1952.84 --> 1955.84] I was in prison, and you came to visit me. -[1955.84 --> 1958.84] Then the righteous will answer him, -[1958.84 --> 1963.84] Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? -[1963.84 --> 1968.84] When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? -[1968.84 --> 1972.84] When did we see you sick or in prison and visit you? -[1972.84 --> 1979.84] The king will reply, Truly I tell you, whatever you did for the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me. -[1979.84 --> 1983.84] Next week's offering is for the Diaculum Ministries of Canada. -[1983.84 --> 1984.84] Please give generously. -[1984.84 --> 2007.84] Thepps before creation -[2007.84 --> 2018.60] You've stood before creation, eternity in your hand. -[2019.68 --> 2026.24] You've swept the earth into motion, my soul now to stand. -[2026.24 --> 2040.18] You've stood before my failure, and bearing the cross for my shame. -[2040.18 --> 2048.42] My sanctuary upon your shoulders, my soul now to stand. -[2050.50 --> 2053.52] Soon what can I say? -[2056.24 --> 2059.78] And what can I do? -[2061.78 --> 2070.08] My heart is hard, oh God, completely true. -[2073.08 --> 2083.70] So I walk upon your salvation, spirit alive in me. -[2083.70 --> 2092.00] I'd love to declare your promise, my soul now to stand. -[2092.70 --> 2097.54] So what can I say? -[2097.54 --> 2103.00] What can I do? -[2103.00 --> 2110.00] My heart is hard, oh God. -[2110.00 --> 2115.00] Completely true. -[2115.00 --> 2120.00] So what can I say? -[2120.00 --> 2127.00] What can I do? -[2127.00 --> 2137.00] I'll offer this heart, oh God, completely true. -[2137.00 --> 2138.00] So what can I do? -[2138.00 --> 2142.00] I'll stand with arms, my heart abandoned. -[2142.00 --> 2143.00] So what can I do? -[2143.00 --> 2147.00] I'll stand with arms, my heart abandoned. -[2147.00 --> 2148.00] In awe of the one who gave it all. -[2148.00 --> 2149.00] So what can I do? -[2149.00 --> 2154.00] I'll stand with arms, my heart abandoned. -[2154.00 --> 2155.00] In awe of the one who gave it all. -[2155.00 --> 2161.00] In awe of the one who gave it all. -[2161.00 --> 2162.00] And I'll stand with arms. -[2162.00 --> 2166.00] And I'll stand with arms, my heart abandoned. -[2166.00 --> 2168.00] In awe of the one who gave it all. -[2168.00 --> 2169.00] In awe of my heart abandoned. -[2169.00 --> 2173.00] At истор 모든 times, my heart abandoned. -[2173.00 --> 2176.54] And I'll stand with arms, my heart abandoned. -[2176.54 --> 2187.90] In awe of the one who gave it all. -[2187.90 --> 2190.50] In awe of the one who gave it all. -[2190.50 --> 2204.50] oh -[2209.22 --> 2214.50] of the one who gave it all -[2220.50 --> 2234.50] is -[2250.50 --> 2261.94] good morning i'd like to invite all the kids to make the heavy track up here to the front -[2262.42 --> 2264.98] we'll do the kids blessing and then we'll head to worship time -[2273.86 --> 2278.82] oh it's good to see so many of you guys here did you guys have a long journey to church this morning -[2279.78 --> 2288.58] yeah oh such in a rush hey i know the feeling i live pretty far away myself up the hill -[2289.30 --> 2293.22] so sometimes i have to take a lot of things with me just to get to church -[2293.22 --> 2302.34] and stuff do you guys ever go on big trips yeah yeah what oh edmonton wow where else have you guys -[2302.34 --> 2304.82] been any big trips calgary -[2306.98 --> 2314.74] stump lake i have no idea oh disneyland yeah that would be a good hawaii would be quite a -[2314.74 --> 2322.90] just what kind of things do you guys pack when you go on a big trip shirts what do you pack pants -[2326.18 --> 2328.90] oh across canada and did you pack anything in particular -[2328.90 --> 2338.58] your whole house i know that's a big one yeah anything else you guys pack -[2343.06 --> 2349.22] oh your blanket and your bun bun is that a stuffy yeah cool well we're going to talk more about a -[2349.22 --> 2354.98] really big trip that the israelites went on in the book of exodus so we'll do that in children's worship -[2354.98 --> 2360.42] time and i packed along all kinds of things because i'm thinking about going a big trip so we can have -[2360.42 --> 2365.14] a look at that at children's worship time and you can tell me if i pack the right kinds of things -[2365.14 --> 2370.98] does that sound good okay well how about we stand and do the kids blessing and then we'll -[2370.98 --> 2378.18] we'll continue this conversation in children's worship time the congregation could stand as well ready -[2380.90 --> 2382.34] the lord be with you -[2385.94 --> 2396.34] all right we'll see you in children's worship time -[2400.98 --> 2411.62] i just have a quick announcement before uh dave comes up here to do the congregational prayer just -[2411.62 --> 2415.62] wanted to remind you all about the congregational meeting coming up on december 6th -[2416.98 --> 2422.74] i'm told that your uh packages for the meeting will be in your mailboxes this week so i ask that you spend -[2422.74 --> 2427.94] some time reviewing it especially the budget um information because we're going to be talking about -[2427.94 --> 2434.82] that at the meeting as well i was up here last week talking about our uh budget shortfall information -[2434.82 --> 2441.94] so i just wanted to keep that on your minds and on your hearts as of now we're 20 percent behind on -[2441.94 --> 2448.82] our budget for the year but uh what that works out is we're 20 000 or 23 000 behind on our expenses -[2449.54 --> 2455.30] to date so if you can take some time over the next week or the next couple weeks to prayerfully -[2455.30 --> 2469.30] consider that for this church community of ours here thank you -[2473.30 --> 2475.30] please join me in our church family prayer -[2475.30 --> 2485.78] father this is the day that you have made we rejoice we and we are glad in it we thank you for -[2485.78 --> 2491.46] this sunday where we can gather together as this group of christians and also with christians everywhere -[2491.46 --> 2497.38] who are celebrating the resurrection and celebrating the the christian community that they can be a part of -[2497.38 --> 2505.22] we thank you that we do not have to worship in isolation or to develop a relationship with you in -[2505.22 --> 2511.38] isolation but that we are part of a much larger christian community where we could feel the love -[2511.38 --> 2517.38] of each other and get support to each other too we thank you for this church congregation and the leaders -[2517.38 --> 2522.66] that we have we thank you for pastor chris and for kevin and for everyone who works on staff and for the -[2522.66 --> 2530.18] ministries that they do we thank you for members of council and that we pray that you give them a -[2530.18 --> 2536.82] wisdom as in direction as they make decisions for this church community but just as important that -[2536.82 --> 2543.62] they'll be able to reach out to all members of this of this congregation that we will feel the love of -[2543.62 --> 2550.66] christ and the unity that we have in you father we think about all the ministries of this church and -[2550.66 --> 2555.06] we thank you for them we think about those who just left to go for children's worship time we thank -[2555.06 --> 2559.14] you for the leaders there and an opportunity to raise their children in the way that they should go -[2559.78 --> 2564.66] and when they are old they will not depart from it we thank you for all the ministries that we have -[2564.66 --> 2572.34] we think about cadets the gems our youth our care group the nursery and of course many others that all of -[2572.34 --> 2579.46] them in their different ways are providing a network for christians to uh to be with each other and to draw -[2579.46 --> 2586.82] closer to you father we think about the ongoing needs that we have in this church community in our -[2586.82 --> 2593.38] neighborhood and the world around us we pray especially for willie and joanne miles with the -[2593.38 --> 2601.22] illness that willie is facing and the news that he has moved into into in for hospice care and is facing -[2601.22 --> 2606.74] an end-of-life situation father we thank you for the love and the strength that you have shown them we -[2606.74 --> 2615.30] pray that they will continue to feel your presence and take great comfort in jesus words that he would -[2615.30 --> 2620.90] be with us always to the very end of the age we think about other members of this church who are -[2620.90 --> 2627.62] facing their own health needs we think about bob and benita and janet um we ask that you be with -[2627.62 --> 2632.74] them with the treatment that they're getting the care that they are getting uh that you will be close to -[2632.74 --> 2640.98] them and that they will feel your strength and your healing as well an ongoing prayer we we have and -[2640.98 --> 2646.34] the people around us have too as we continue to pray for a world uh that is face that is still facing -[2646.34 --> 2654.34] covet and um for many it causes great fear and great anxiety um we also notice that it's an opportunity -[2654.34 --> 2661.38] uh that we experience division too that when we disagree with each other sometimes disagree strongly -[2661.94 --> 2670.10] uh that it does bring people apart we pray that all of us when we're uh speaking our our mind that we -[2670.10 --> 2675.54] will be able to speak the truth and love and make the right decisions for the good of the people around -[2675.54 --> 2683.06] us we think about all those involved in uh in health care to deal with people who have covet and the other -[2683.06 --> 2689.62] crises that we have with those addicted to opioids sometimes we feel a certain sense of helplessness -[2690.42 --> 2697.06] we pray lord that good decisions and can be made that we'll be able to take care of them all -[2697.06 --> 2702.26] we pray for our elected leaders of all level levels of government we think of those involved in public -[2702.26 --> 2707.22] health they have an important task and it's often a very difficult task too and -[2707.22 --> 2714.42] and very often no matter what decisions they make they are going to face opposition for it regardless -[2714.42 --> 2718.98] we pray for wisdom for all that they'll make the best decisions that they can and whether they -[2718.98 --> 2726.02] acknowledge you or not that they will think about the words from micah what does the lord require of us -[2726.02 --> 2732.42] to act justly to love mercy and to walk humbly with our god and we pray for all of us and for -[2732.42 --> 2739.38] all citizens in our community that we would experience uh patience as we uh face life struggles -[2739.38 --> 2745.70] and this health crisis too father we pray for pastor chris as he leads us in the preaching from your word -[2746.26 --> 2752.74] and uh and so we can learn more about the humble community we thank you for the words from the apostle -[2752.74 --> 2759.30] peter and uh the very comforting words that we can cast our anxiety on you because you care for us -[2759.30 --> 2764.74] father we pray that you will be with this church community as we worship and celebrate your name -[2764.74 --> 2779.30] and we go our separate ways throughout this week we pray these things in jesus name amen -[2779.30 --> 2789.30] and -[2793.94 --> 2794.74] let's try again -[2798.50 --> 2799.54] and again -[2799.54 --> 2809.22] yeah there it is okay awesome thank you back of house for your problem solving skills -[2811.14 --> 2822.02] we uh as we prayed are gonna continue in our look at first peter uh this is uh the second to last -[2822.02 --> 2828.18] text and uh sermon in this series that we have been together and so encourage you to open your bible -[2828.18 --> 2834.90] turn on your bible however that works um as we're going to read from first peter 5 verse 1 through 7 -[2835.78 --> 2842.34] it will be on the screen i think behind me as we go and so with god's word in front of us let's -[2843.06 --> 2844.10] hear what he has to say -[2846.74 --> 2855.62] to the elders among you i appeal as a fellow elder and witness of christ's sufferings who will also share -[2855.62 --> 2865.78] in the glory to be revealed be shepherds of the flock under your care watching over them not because -[2865.78 --> 2874.50] you must but because you are willing as god wants you to be not pursuing dishonest gain but eager to serve -[2875.06 --> 2880.34] not lording it over those entrusted to you but being examples to the flock -[2880.34 --> 2889.86] and when the chief shepherd appears you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away -[2891.62 --> 2900.50] in the same way you who are younger submit yourselves to the elders all of you clothe yourselves with -[2900.50 --> 2907.30] humility toward one another because god opposes the proud but shows favor the humble -[2907.30 --> 2917.14] humble humble humble yourselves therefore under god's mighty hand that he may lift you up in due time -[2918.26 --> 2925.70] cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you this is the word of the lord -[2925.70 --> 2935.94] so i -[2938.42 --> 2945.78] wondered about this introduction for a while and have decided i'm gonna go for it but at the risk of -[2945.78 --> 2951.62] embarrassing myself i want you to tell me what this is -[2955.70 --> 2973.54] i'm not a very good example of that my flexibility isn't what it once used to be -[2975.06 --> 2982.58] um you ever watch the olympics or sports or whatever um and synchronized diving is a good -[2982.58 --> 2990.02] example of that or diving in general or um aerial ski is another really good one where the athlete -[2990.02 --> 2996.90] stands at the starting block or even prior to that right and then just goes through the motions -[2998.02 --> 3006.58] that they're going to do when they're competing so it's a process uh called visualization -[3006.58 --> 3014.42] or guided imagery now this is according to sports psychologists so don't blame me i just read about it -[3015.78 --> 3024.74] but the idea is in order to be most effective in the task that you are about to do you have to visualize -[3025.30 --> 3032.18] beforehand you have to picture the end and the journey to where you're going to go -[3032.18 --> 3042.50] in order to live that well in the moment there's a sports psychologist who i read that says the more -[3042.50 --> 3052.50] an athlete can image the entire package the better it's going to be there's another article uh on this that -[3052.50 --> 3060.50] says and i'm going to quote this this is more than ever a multi-sensory endeavor which is why the term -[3060.50 --> 3066.58] imagery is now preferred to visualization visualization doesn't take in all the senses -[3067.78 --> 3072.18] you have to smell it you have to hear it you have to feel it everything -[3074.26 --> 3086.42] to make it to the end well you have to be captivated by the image of it throughout the entire exercise -[3086.42 --> 3088.02] the journey -[3090.98 --> 3098.90] i want to suggest to you some of you have already made this connection that the kind of life that peter -[3098.90 --> 3109.86] calls us to as disciples only makes sense when it is based on and lived in light of an unshakable -[3109.86 --> 3114.10] all-satisfying hope beyond this life -[3117.70 --> 3125.06] and that the way we endure trial the way we engage suffering the way we remain faithful the way we grow -[3125.06 --> 3130.82] in obedience is to visualize or to image -[3130.82 --> 3139.94] what's ahead in that life to come here's my idea my theme for this morning that we're going to reflect -[3139.94 --> 3148.66] on the kind of living that changes history but that the kind of living that that changes the world -[3148.66 --> 3157.46] can only happen when you think beyond history can only happen when you imagine another world when you -[3157.46 --> 3162.26] have a vision of the future of from god that is unstoppable -[3164.02 --> 3171.22] that's what peter is trying to tell us and that's what the whole new testament really is is trying to -[3171.22 --> 3178.82] show us and if you look at christian history that's what christian history proves to us -[3180.18 --> 3185.14] and so really as as a recap as we're nearing the end of this series that we're going to just for a -[3185.14 --> 3191.94] moment look back at where we've gone look back at the letter right in in chapter 1 verse 6 and 7 -[3191.94 --> 3198.02] peter calls us to greatly rejoice in suffering grief and trials -[3198.74 --> 3206.98] right in his language even as you face a refining fire your life may result in praise and glory and honor -[3206.98 --> 3211.78] right he says you can rejoice now because of the glory promised then -[3211.78 --> 3222.74] that's the the new birth into a living hope of verse 3 in chapter 1. in chapter 2 11 and 12 we read -[3222.74 --> 3228.66] that we go to war against our sinful desires and we live such good lives among the pagans that even -[3228.66 --> 3235.38] though they accuse us of doing wrong and we do all that so that we might glorify god on the day he visits -[3235.38 --> 3244.26] right that the glory of god revealed in jesus and in the coming of the celestial city of his return heaven -[3244.26 --> 3253.22] and earth together because of jesus right that's the the hope for living or the living hope for living in -[3253.22 --> 3261.62] this present darkness and then in the rest of chapter 2 in verse 13 and following believers are told to -[3261.62 --> 3268.34] submit to every human authority and to be clear right this would include emperors and governors who were -[3268.34 --> 3277.38] actively persecuting christians further slaves are commanded to submit to even harsh masters christian -[3277.38 --> 3286.50] wives are called to do right and to not give way to fear even to unbelieving husbands husbands are instructed to -[3286.50 --> 3293.14] live together in wisdom as partners with their wives and hear that right all of this living together -[3293.14 --> 3298.74] in wisdom as partners comes in a culture that doesn't consider equality between men and women at all -[3300.02 --> 3307.14] and then finally all of us in this section are called not to repay evil for evil or insult with insult -[3307.14 --> 3315.30] right on the contrary peter writes repay evil with blessing now how does that make any sense -[3316.50 --> 3323.94] it doesn't right not in the culture of the day not even in our culture not in the so-called normal -[3323.94 --> 3332.98] operation of human interaction it only begins to make sense if you know of a greater reality than the one -[3332.98 --> 3340.42] in front of your face right now and look even as i recap that i know that some of you are going to get -[3340.42 --> 3348.50] hung up on the word submit and if you are coming out of an experience of abuse or trauma i get that -[3350.90 --> 3357.46] but for most of us don't miss the truth for the the ringing in your ears in that word because first -[3357.46 --> 3364.34] of all the greatest model of submission is jesus who prayed right yet not my will be done but yours -[3364.34 --> 3370.90] right jesus who submitted himself to authorities and powers and principalities of this dark age jesus -[3370.90 --> 3377.14] who submitted himself to the cross and then now look at what peter says because he submitted himself -[3377.14 --> 3383.78] to the cross in 3 22 jesus christ has gone into heaven and is at god's right hand with angels -[3383.78 --> 3391.78] authorities and powers in submission to him if you were here last week this is the the crown after the -[3391.78 --> 3400.82] cross again and then again later or elsewhere in the bible in ephesians 5 paul calls us all to submit -[3400.82 --> 3407.22] to one another out of reverence for christ right submitting to god submitting to authorities as his -[3407.22 --> 3414.02] representatives husbands to wives wives to husbands submitting to each other is the economy of gospel -[3414.02 --> 3424.50] living and is is following the example of jesus himself who came not to be served but to serve and -[3424.50 --> 3432.18] to give his life as a ransom for many but you can't be afraid of submission when you know the perfect love -[3432.18 --> 3441.14] of god that drives out fear but again this kind of mutual submission this kind of of lives willing to -[3441.14 --> 3449.70] serve lived for the other only makes sense it's it's only truly possible when you have hope in another -[3449.70 --> 3460.26] life right eternally lived in the experience of the glory of god so let me make this really super abundantly clear -[3461.62 --> 3469.06] the kind of life that peter has been calling us to the kind of life that is born out of the gospel -[3469.06 --> 3480.58] doesn't make sense to the world it doesn't add up it doesn't look right unless your understanding of -[3481.14 --> 3487.94] accounting includes the eternal the economy of christian living won't add up unless your perspective -[3487.94 --> 3495.46] on life includes the end of history and the celestial city of god all you will be ever be able to see is -[3495.46 --> 3506.58] what's right in front of you the only way that you beloved will be able to as peter says in chapter 4 13 -[3507.14 --> 3514.10] rejoice in as much as you participate in the sufferings of christ and hear that again right rejoice in as -[3514.10 --> 3520.98] much in as much as you participate in the sufferings of christ so the more you suffer with christ the more -[3520.98 --> 3528.42] rejoicing there ought to be rejoice in as much as you participate in the sufferings of christ so that -[3528.42 --> 3539.70] you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed right rejoice and be overjoyed there's a in the structure -[3539.70 --> 3547.46] of this sentence it's a stacked word pair right the rejoicing is one thing on the this lower level and then -[3547.46 --> 3555.30] the this rejoicing to come will be over and above that it's a stacked up on top of it it's a rejoicing -[3555.30 --> 3560.42] and then an overjoicing and yes i made up that word but i'm going to use it a few more times so -[3560.98 --> 3568.74] come with me but it is a promise of over joicing in the age to come at the full revelation of god's glory -[3568.74 --> 3575.70] in the new heavens and the new earth that that then works its way backwards through history to your present -[3575.70 --> 3581.54] that enables you to rejoice now even in suffering -[3583.70 --> 3593.14] so whether it's a funeral or martyrdom whether it's suffering illness or suffering persecution we -[3593.14 --> 3602.50] can sing great is thy faithfulness when the world is is crumbling around you or or your whole peer group -[3602.50 --> 3608.58] is making fun of you because of your faith you can sing it is well with my soul -[3611.22 --> 3613.70] forgive me for this but when your husband is an ass -[3615.86 --> 3622.74] or when your wife is indifferent when your boss takes advantage of your work ethic or your professor -[3622.74 --> 3626.42] is dismissive of your worldview you can raise a hallelujah -[3630.10 --> 3635.70] the very beginning of this series or if you've been uh working through or looking at the the bible -[3635.70 --> 3643.94] study that we provided right on the the cover page there i asked a question how does being born into a -[3643.94 --> 3653.78] a living hope change the world and this this is the answer okay some of you are going to be shocked by -[3653.78 --> 3660.02] this but the truth is you cannot change the people in your life some of you have been trying to change -[3660.02 --> 3665.22] them for years and the reality is you're going to keep trying to change them for years to come -[3665.86 --> 3679.30] because you cannot change people in your life only god does that but you can change you you can change -[3679.30 --> 3686.26] your perspective you can change how you show up in certain circumstances and situations and and basing -[3686.26 --> 3694.50] your life now on an unshakable all-satisfying hope beyond this life can can literally redefine -[3694.50 --> 3701.78] your present circumstances notice notice carefully right that redefine does not mean change -[3703.54 --> 3712.10] right you don't change your present circumstances suffering may still come trial happens hardship is real -[3714.58 --> 3723.94] but the meaning that you make in the moment that can be new that can be different that can be redefined -[3724.50 --> 3732.34] and when you make a gospel-centered meaning of life and and when you are seeing things through the lens of the -[3732.34 --> 3742.26] consummation when you are seeing the hardship of this world in light of the glory of heaven that changes you -[3744.50 --> 3753.46] and a changed you has an impact of changing the world that the world is transformed communities are transformed -[3753.46 --> 3758.34] when you are transformed when the church is being transformed -[3760.58 --> 3761.06] and yes -[3763.62 --> 3769.46] for those who only see this world it doesn't make sense -[3771.30 --> 3777.62] our hope is other worldly our our mindset is other worldly -[3777.62 --> 3783.22] all rights in colossians set your mind on things above not on earthly things -[3784.74 --> 3793.62] remember in this series in this epistle we have been talking about living as exiles in a pagan land -[3794.50 --> 3799.70] and then one definition of paganism that that we have been offering through this series is to -[3799.70 --> 3810.10] see only this world this system as all there is and so human nature the gods or those things that we treat as -[3810.10 --> 3818.50] god-like are all part of this one same system there is no other there is no holy other there is no holy there is no -[3818.66 --> 3828.58] transcendent and because there is only one system and the things in it whether that's people or nature or the so-called gods of this world -[3828.58 --> 3835.70] all of them can be used and manipulated and coerced for your own benefit for your own peace -[3835.70 --> 3839.94] and your own power fundamentally that's paganism -[3841.78 --> 3850.74] in christianity gospel christianity is something else altogether because our hope is other worldly -[3850.74 --> 3859.78] and if you don't believe in anything beyond this world then of course that doesn't make sense -[3861.54 --> 3867.14] but the truth for us that we know is that when you come to see god and jesus when you have been born -[3867.14 --> 3875.46] again into this living hope this is actually the only way to make sense of anything in this world it's the only way to see -[3875.46 --> 3884.90] here's the hard truth then that the the world struggles so much to understand -[3887.94 --> 3889.70] any suffering -[3892.34 --> 3902.66] hear that any suffering only makes sense if and when consummation and god's glory fills it with purpose -[3902.66 --> 3910.66] any rejoicing only makes sense in light of the consummation and god's glory as the utter fulfillment -[3910.66 --> 3919.06] and climax of our joy right the truth is an otherworldly hope and an otherworldly mindset is the only way to -[3919.06 --> 3928.34] make sense of anything in the world right now and these two threads running through the whole letter of -[3928.34 --> 3935.06] peter are pulled into his penultimate discussion here about being a humble community -[3937.22 --> 3937.78] he writes -[3938.58 --> 3939.86] to the elders among you -[3941.06 --> 3945.94] be shepherds of god's flock that is under your care watching over them -[3945.94 --> 3949.70] not because you must but because you are willing as god wants you to be -[3949.70 --> 3956.74] not pursuing dishonest gain but eager to serve not lording it over those entrusted to you but being examples -[3956.74 --> 3958.02] of the flock -[3960.18 --> 3968.26] one commentary that i read this week in this section here asks the question how does this make any sense -[3968.26 --> 3976.58] in a world where the very stuff of leadership is coercion and money and power and the answer is it doesn't -[3976.58 --> 3979.38] it doesn't it doesn't make sense -[3981.06 --> 3981.86] or at least -[3981.86 --> 3983.70] it only makes sense -[3983.70 --> 3986.02] if what you know is -[3986.02 --> 3987.70] and when -[3987.70 --> 3990.58] the chief shepherd appears -[3990.58 --> 3992.50] you will receive -[3993.06 --> 3994.74] a crown of glory -[3994.74 --> 3996.18] that never fades away -[3996.18 --> 4002.90] but that the kind of living that changes history the kind of of living that changes the world -[4002.90 --> 4010.02] the kind of leading that changes the church can only happen when you think beyond history when you think of another -[4010.50 --> 4011.46] world -[4011.46 --> 4014.34] and elders speaking specifically to you now -[4014.34 --> 4017.22] elders if you want to be good at your job -[4017.22 --> 4021.70] if you want to be faithful to your calling as an under shepherd of jesus -[4022.66 --> 4024.74] you need to be captivated -[4025.06 --> 4028.02] completely and utterly captivated -[4028.02 --> 4029.46] by this truth -[4030.02 --> 4033.06] your hearts need to be full of rejoicing -[4033.06 --> 4034.66] and overjoycing -[4034.66 --> 4035.86] at the consummation -[4035.86 --> 4037.78] and the celestial city to come -[4037.78 --> 4040.18] your imaginations need to be overwhelmed -[4040.18 --> 4041.14] by the beauty -[4041.14 --> 4042.34] and the majesty -[4042.34 --> 4043.38] of the gospel -[4043.38 --> 4045.78] so that you may live and serve -[4045.78 --> 4048.02] in the midst of hardship -[4048.02 --> 4048.98] and suffering -[4048.98 --> 4049.94] and trial -[4049.94 --> 4050.50] and -[4050.50 --> 4051.62] with purpose -[4051.62 --> 4052.26] and joy -[4052.26 --> 4054.50] whether that is your suffering and hardship and trial -[4054.50 --> 4055.78] or entering into -[4055.78 --> 4058.34] the sufferings of others -[4058.34 --> 4059.86] to do that with purpose -[4059.86 --> 4060.42] and joy -[4060.42 --> 4061.70] with integrity -[4061.70 --> 4062.98] and with diligence -[4062.98 --> 4065.30] you need to be captivated -[4067.06 --> 4067.78] by this truth -[4070.42 --> 4071.86] but of course not just the elders -[4073.14 --> 4073.38] right -[4073.38 --> 4074.66] in the same way -[4074.66 --> 4076.10] you who are younger -[4076.10 --> 4076.34] now -[4077.06 --> 4079.38] most scholars agree that that is a term -[4079.38 --> 4082.18] that refers to those who are spiritually younger -[4082.18 --> 4084.90] as well as those who are numerically younger -[4084.90 --> 4088.18] the idea really is to catch up everyone who's not serving -[4088.18 --> 4089.54] the church as an elder -[4091.54 --> 4092.58] in the same way -[4093.38 --> 4094.02] peter writes -[4094.74 --> 4096.26] submit yourselves -[4097.30 --> 4098.10] to your elders -[4099.70 --> 4100.66] there's that word -[4100.66 --> 4101.70] submit again -[4103.30 --> 4107.38] and since the elders calling is to care for and to -[4107.38 --> 4110.58] usher you into the presence of jesus -[4110.58 --> 4114.74] whether that's our pastoral elders or me as a teaching elder -[4114.74 --> 4118.34] and and to be sure i know that in our church tradition we don't really make that kind of -[4118.34 --> 4122.34] distinction formally but practically of course we do because -[4123.70 --> 4126.26] your pastoral elders aren't up here preaching yet -[4126.26 --> 4137.54] since the elders have a responsibility to see you grow in your faith and in your relationship to jesus -[4137.54 --> 4144.74] since the elders may have cause to correct or to teach or to rebuke so that you can be transformed -[4144.74 --> 4152.90] ever more into the image of jesus christ peter says that we have to submit to their oversight too -[4152.90 --> 4158.74] and again to the world around us that doesn't make sense -[4159.54 --> 4164.18] and let's let's be honest right because to some of you sitting here right now and who've been -[4164.18 --> 4166.18] sitting in a church for your entire lives -[4167.86 --> 4169.30] that hardly makes sense to you -[4170.66 --> 4173.38] you mean i have to submit to someone else in authority over me -[4174.90 --> 4176.34] that's not how we work in this world -[4176.34 --> 4186.10] and yet this is the exact structure that jesus has given his church this is the exact purpose -[4186.10 --> 4193.14] that jesus has designed in his kingdom come and his kingdom coming because the truth is we all -[4193.14 --> 4199.38] wander right the truth is we all waver in our commitments and the sad truth is we all walk away -[4199.38 --> 4208.02] from obedience at one time or another and the good shepherd who goes after that one lost sheep -[4209.62 --> 4214.98] like the good shepherd who goes after that one lost sheep a good elder will go after you -[4216.18 --> 4222.66] a good elder will not give up on pursuing you a good elder may have to say enough -[4222.66 --> 4227.62] enough it's time to return to obedience faith -[4236.66 --> 4239.70] what a good elder does this -[4241.94 --> 4242.58] humility -[4245.38 --> 4248.34] so the only question left this -[4248.34 --> 4254.02] will you also be humble enough to hear it -[4256.18 --> 4263.22] all of you clothe yourselves with humility toward one another humble yourselves therefore -[4263.22 --> 4272.10] under god's mighty hand that he may lift you up in due time will you be a practicing -[4272.10 --> 4273.94] functioning -[4273.94 --> 4278.50] meaningful part of our humble community -[4279.94 --> 4284.18] will you let this community humble you as it has humbled me -[4286.18 --> 4289.30] and sure it makes no sense to the world -[4290.58 --> 4296.02] but the kind of living that changes history the kind of living that changes the world can only happen -[4296.02 --> 4302.02] when you think beyond history when you think of another world a heavenly one come down the life of -[4302.02 --> 4308.74] gospel christianity only makes sense when it is based on an unshakable all-satisfying hope -[4308.74 --> 4310.50] beyond this life -[4312.34 --> 4313.22] and so again notice -[4314.50 --> 4316.90] the threads humble yourselves -[4318.02 --> 4320.98] so that he may lift you up in due time -[4321.70 --> 4327.54] humble yourself now so that he may exalt you with the crown of glory that never spoils -[4327.54 --> 4333.54] or fades in in light of eternity all of our suffering is light and momentary -[4334.18 --> 4340.74] but in the light of eternity the present finally begins to make sense -[4343.38 --> 4350.98] cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you -[4350.98 --> 4360.34] far from being a spiritual platitude that's offered in a counseling session history reveals this to be true -[4360.34 --> 4368.98] cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you history reveals this to be true and the future proves it -[4368.98 --> 4371.14] it -[4371.14 --> 4374.90] and so in our worship together visualize -[4376.02 --> 4376.26] that -[4377.70 --> 4378.82] in your devotion -[4379.62 --> 4380.26] imagine -[4381.06 --> 4388.58] that in your working and you're walking and you're waiting in your heart of hearts be utterly captivated -[4388.58 --> 4390.02] by the world to come -[4390.02 --> 4393.54] let the gospel redefine your hope -[4394.10 --> 4401.70] and your mindset and then and then watch and wait as god transforms your heart your life -[4402.42 --> 4406.42] and the world through his church -[4408.90 --> 4409.62] picture -[4410.50 --> 4410.82] this -[4412.50 --> 4414.66] the celestial city -[4414.66 --> 4415.86] god -[4415.86 --> 4417.38] come down -[4417.38 --> 4418.50] the consummation -[4419.22 --> 4426.58] of jesus christ at the return of jesus the sound of trumpet with the voice of archangels -[4426.58 --> 4432.50] that all those who have gone on in glory before us march with him to this world and that we -[4432.50 --> 4440.82] with unveiled faces may see him face to face that we with unveiled faces being clothed now with the -[4440.82 --> 4444.50] imperishable may live forever with him -[4445.54 --> 4445.86] here -[4447.06 --> 4447.86] on this earth -[4448.82 --> 4449.86] renewed -[4449.86 --> 4451.14] and restored -[4451.14 --> 4451.70] to his -[4452.58 --> 4454.58] perfect design -[4454.58 --> 4455.78] his perfect -[4456.34 --> 4456.66] plan -[4459.14 --> 4460.02] visualize that -[4461.22 --> 4462.74] and see how that changes your tomorrow -[4464.18 --> 4468.66] hold up that image of what god is doing and where god is taking history -[4468.66 --> 4473.38] and see how that determines your experience -[4473.38 --> 4474.50] of today -[4475.14 --> 4475.62] amen -[4476.74 --> 4477.62] let's pray together -[4486.10 --> 4488.74] lord our god humble our hearts -[4489.62 --> 4491.94] that we may hear your voice -[4491.94 --> 4496.74] humble our hearts -[4497.86 --> 4499.78] that we may know your -[4500.58 --> 4500.98] truth -[4503.06 --> 4511.54] god humble us so that we might see and live and be beyond ourselves that we might focus on the glory of your -[4511.54 --> 4512.50] your name -[4512.50 --> 4518.50] that we might focus on your design and purpose for history -[4525.38 --> 4526.10] god we pray -[4526.98 --> 4528.98] that you would use your church -[4531.06 --> 4532.66] the elders and the leaders here -[4533.62 --> 4534.74] and every member -[4534.74 --> 4536.90] that we might -[4536.90 --> 4537.78] to transform -[4537.78 --> 4538.26] to transform -[4538.26 --> 4539.46] our -[4539.46 --> 4540.66] hearts -[4542.66 --> 4543.46] to transform -[4543.46 --> 4544.66] us -[4544.66 --> 4546.18] by the renewing -[4546.18 --> 4547.14] of our minds -[4548.58 --> 4552.34] that we might see you at work in the world and that we might -[4552.34 --> 4554.18] know the glory -[4554.18 --> 4557.14] to which you are directing -[4557.70 --> 4558.42] everything -[4558.42 --> 4562.74] and that that vision of the future -[4564.42 --> 4565.70] would sustain us -[4566.74 --> 4567.38] in the present -[4572.26 --> 4581.54] open our eyes to see you more clearly today we pray in jesus name amen -[4589.08 --> 4591.30] that we pray in jesus name -[4601.78 --> 4602.74] vill pomoc -[4602.74 --> 4604.34] gardener -[4605.38 --> 4607.06] pour -[4607.06 --> 4609.62] tom -[4610.18 --> 4611.70] on -[4614.18 --> 4614.34] in -[4614.34 --> 4622.64] Worthy of every soul we could ever see -[4622.64 --> 4629.10] Worthy of all the praise we could ever breathe -[4629.10 --> 4635.76] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe -[4635.76 --> 4637.80] We live for you -[4637.80 --> 4649.72] Jesus, the name above every other name -[4649.72 --> 4656.50] Jesus, the only one who could ever see -[4656.50 --> 4662.90] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe -[4662.90 --> 4664.90] We live for you -[4664.90 --> 4668.90] We live for you -[4668.90 --> 4675.70] Holy, there is no one like you -[4675.70 --> 4679.32] There is none beside you -[4679.32 --> 4684.10] Open up my eyes in wonder -[4684.10 --> 4687.86] Show me who you are -[4687.86 --> 4691.30] And fill me with your heart -[4691.30 --> 4695.86] And feed me with your love to know -[4695.86 --> 4697.86] Some kind of peace -[4697.86 --> 4703.86] Jesus, the name above every other name -[4704.66 --> 4710.86] Jesus, the only one who could ever see -[4710.86 --> 4712.86] We live for you -[4712.86 --> 4717.86] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe -[4717.86 --> 4719.86] We live for you -[4719.86 --> 4723.86] Oh, we live for you -[4723.86 --> 4730.86] And holy, there is no one like you -[4730.86 --> 4733.86] There is none beside you -[4733.86 --> 4738.86] Open up my eyes in wonder -[4738.86 --> 4741.86] Show me who you are -[4741.86 --> 4742.86] Who you are -[4742.86 --> 4745.86] And fill me with your heart -[4745.86 --> 4750.86] And feed me with your love to know -[4750.86 --> 4752.86] About me -[4752.86 --> 4767.86] I will live for you -[4767.86 --> 4769.86] And fill me with your heart -[4769.86 --> 4770.86] And fill me with you -[4770.86 --> 4779.50] Upon your love is a third foundation -[4779.50 --> 4787.28] I will pour my trust in you alone -[4787.28 --> 4792.76] And I will not be saved -[4792.76 --> 4800.76] I will build my life upon your love -[4800.76 --> 4805.88] It is a third foundation -[4805.88 --> 4813.64] I will put my trust in you alone -[4813.64 --> 4818.98] And I will not be saved -[4818.98 --> 4824.48] Holy, there is no one like you -[4824.48 --> 4828.14] There is no beside you -[4828.14 --> 4833.26] Open up my eyes in wonder -[4833.26 --> 4836.70] Show me who you are -[4836.70 --> 4840.02] And fill me with your heart -[4840.02 --> 4841.76] And lead me -[4841.76 --> 4846.26] Bring your love to those around me -[4846.26 --> 4851.94] Holy, there is no one like you -[4851.94 --> 4855.58] There is none beside you -[4855.58 --> 4860.70] Open up my eyes in wonder -[4860.70 --> 4864.64] Show me who you are -[4864.64 --> 4868.50] And fill me with your heart -[4868.50 --> 4876.70] And lead me in your love to those around me -[4876.70 --> 4886.46] Ben, please have a seat together -[4886.46 --> 4899.66] It was a sports psychologist who said, -[4899.66 --> 4901.28] You have to smell it -[4901.28 --> 4903.42] You have to hear it -[4903.42 --> 4905.48] You have to feel it -[4905.48 --> 4908.32] And I would add, you have to taste it -[4908.32 --> 4910.22] See it -[4910.22 --> 4915.52] We come to the table of our God -[4915.52 --> 4919.72] We come to visualize the banquet -[4919.72 --> 4922.66] The kingdom to come -[4922.66 --> 4926.78] We come to join our Lord -[4926.78 --> 4928.94] At his table -[4928.94 --> 4932.26] At his last supper -[4932.26 --> 4934.06] The Lord Jesus -[4934.06 --> 4935.72] Cook bread -[4935.72 --> 4938.46] And when he had given thanks -[4938.46 --> 4939.96] He broke it -[4939.96 --> 4942.06] And said, this is my body -[4942.06 --> 4943.46] Which is for you -[4943.46 --> 4947.04] Do this in remembrance of me -[4947.04 --> 4950.02] In the same way -[4950.02 --> 4951.66] He took the cup -[4951.66 --> 4953.02] After supper -[4953.02 --> 4954.94] And he said, this cup -[4954.94 --> 4956.82] Is the new covenant -[4956.82 --> 4957.90] In my blood -[4957.90 --> 4962.02] Do this in remembrance of me -[4962.02 --> 4964.50] For whenever we eat this bread -[4964.50 --> 4965.90] And drink this cup -[4965.90 --> 4967.80] We proclaim the Lord's death -[4967.80 --> 4968.92] And resurrection -[4968.92 --> 4972.04] Until he comes again -[4972.04 --> 4986.04] Therefore -[4986.04 --> 4988.82] We proclaim our faith -[4988.82 --> 4991.30] As signed and sealed -[4991.30 --> 4992.58] In this sacrament -[4992.58 --> 5002.06] Church family -[5002.06 --> 5004.04] The Lord has prepared -[5004.04 --> 5005.58] His table -[5005.58 --> 5007.74] For all who love him -[5007.74 --> 5009.72] And who trust in him alone -[5009.72 --> 5010.96] For their salvation -[5010.96 --> 5013.68] And so if you are truly sorry -[5013.68 --> 5014.54] For your sins -[5014.54 --> 5015.88] If you sincerely believe -[5015.88 --> 5017.48] In the Lord Jesus -[5017.48 --> 5019.04] As your Savior -[5019.04 --> 5020.66] And if you desire to live -[5020.66 --> 5022.20] In obedience to him -[5022.20 --> 5023.44] Whether you are here -[5023.44 --> 5023.88] Present -[5023.88 --> 5025.32] Or at home -[5025.32 --> 5026.48] Digitally present -[5026.48 --> 5027.94] You are invited -[5027.94 --> 5029.62] To come with gladness -[5029.62 --> 5030.78] To the table -[5030.78 --> 5032.08] Of the Lord -[5032.08 --> 5034.08] The gifts of God -[5034.08 --> 5035.48] For the people -[5035.48 --> 5036.64] Of God -[5036.64 --> 5040.18] The elders come forward -[5040.18 --> 5041.10] And then as they begin -[5041.10 --> 5042.08] To make their way -[5042.08 --> 5043.92] To distribute the elements -[5043.92 --> 5045.06] Just encourage you -[5045.06 --> 5046.28] To put your masks on -[5046.28 --> 5048.00] As they come by you -[5048.00 --> 5048.98] And in front of you -[5048.98 --> 5050.20] So that everyone -[5050.20 --> 5051.04] May participate -[5051.04 --> 5052.16] Without concern -[5052.16 --> 5052.18] Without concern -[5081.40 --> 5082.92] They can raise content -[5082.92 --> 5085.54] And work with gladness -[5085.54 --> 5100.08] Amazing grace, how seamless thou, and save the night my day. -[5100.08 --> 5112.88] Thy once was lost, but now I'm down, as God for now I see. -[5115.54 --> 5129.36] Grace, how tough I want to hear, and grace our fears we give. -[5129.36 --> 5143.14] Thy precious name, and grace our fears, and all our hearts we give. -[5143.14 --> 5157.46] The Lord has promised love to me, His word my heart secures. -[5157.46 --> 5171.46] He will my shield and portion be, as long as life can be. -[5171.46 --> 5187.46] Through many dangers, toils, and snares, I have already come. -[5187.46 --> 5203.46] Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far, and grace will lead me home. -[5203.46 --> 5219.46] When we've made plans ten thousand years, bright shining as the sun. -[5219.46 --> 5233.46] We know that safe to sing God's grace, and when we've lost beyond. -[5233.46 --> 5236.84] To beugarat no matter. -[5236.84 --> 5240.16] A -[5240.16 --> 5240.64] jewel -[5240.64 --> 5249.74] Evangelical -[5249.74 --> 5254.80] Evangelical -[5255.24 --> 5256.36] Evangelical -[5256.36 --> 5259.22] Evangelical -[5259.38 --> 5261.86] Evangelical -[5261.86 --> 5291.84] Thank you. -[5291.86 --> 5292.28] Take. -[5293.14 --> 5293.76] Eat. -[5294.36 --> 5301.38] Remember and believe that the body of our Lord Jesus Christ was given for the complete forgiveness of all our sins. -[5321.86 --> 5334.04] cup of -[5334.04 --> 5353.20] You did not wait for me to draw near to you, but you clothed yourself with frail humanity. -[5353.20 --> 5366.44] You did not wait for me to cry out to you, but you let me hear your voice calling me. -[5366.44 --> 5372.44] And I'm forever grateful to you. -[5372.44 --> 5379.04] I'm forever grateful for the cross. -[5379.04 --> 5395.12] I'm forever grateful to you that you came to sing and save the lost. -[5398.46 --> 5408.76] You did not wait for me to draw near to you, but you clothed yourself with frail humanity. -[5409.04 --> 5422.28] You did not wait for me to cry out to you, but you let me hear your voice calling me. -[5422.28 --> 5427.28] And I'm forever grateful to you. -[5427.28 --> 5434.28] I'm forever grateful for the cross. -[5434.28 --> 5441.28] I'm forever grateful to you. -[5441.28 --> 5450.28] That you came to sing and save the lost. -[5450.28 --> 5451.28] I'm forever grateful to you. -[5451.28 --> 5457.28] I'm forever grateful to you. -[5457.28 --> 5463.28] I'm forever grateful for the cross. -[5463.28 --> 5468.28] I'm forever grateful to you. -[5468.28 --> 5480.28] I'm forever grateful to you, but you let me pray, but you know what you came to sing and save the lost. -[5480.28 --> 5510.26] Thank you. -[5510.28 --> 5540.26] Thank you. -[5540.28 --> 5570.26] Thank you. -[5570.28 --> 5572.28] Thank you. -[5576.76 --> 5580.00] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[5580.64 --> 5584.52] So take, drink, remember, and believe that the precious blood of our Lord Jesus Christ -[5584.52 --> 5589.14] was given for the complete forgiveness of our sins. -[5589.14 --> 5591.14] Amen. -[5591.14 --> 5593.14] Amen. -[5593.14 --> 5595.14] Amen. -[5595.14 --> 5597.14] Amen. -[5597.14 --> 5599.14] Amen. -[5599.14 --> 5601.14] Amen. -[5601.14 --> 5603.14] Amen. -[5603.14 --> 5605.14] Amen. -[5605.14 --> 5607.14] Amen. -[5607.14 --> 5609.14] Amen. -[5609.14 --> 5611.14] Amen. -[5611.14 --> 5613.14] Amen. -[5613.14 --> 5615.14] Amen. -[5615.14 --> 5616.14] Amen. -[5616.14 --> 5617.14] Amen. -[5617.14 --> 5619.14] Amen. -[5619.14 --> 5621.14] Amen. -[5621.14 --> 5621.20] Amen. -[5621.20 --> 5622.14] Amen. -[5622.14 --> 5622.20] Amen. -[5622.20 --> 5622.76] Amen. -[5622.76 --> 5623.70] Amen. -[5623.70 --> 5625.24] Amen. -[5625.24 --> 5626.64] Amen. -[5630.64 --> 5631.20] Amen. -[5631.20 --> 5631.88] Amen. -[5632.42 --> 5633.32] Amen. -[5633.32 --> 5642.20] sacrament that here we can taste and see that here you have united us with christ and and given us a -[5642.20 --> 5650.28] preview of the heavenly banquet in your eternal kingdom to come send us out now strengthened -[5650.28 --> 5658.12] nourished and equipped send us out now in the power of your spirit to live and work to your -[5658.12 --> 5665.64] praise and glory for the sake of jesus christ our lord in whose name we pray amen -[5677.88 --> 5683.16] now we will receive your blessing and then we will sing receive your blessing -[5683.16 --> 5695.48] may god himself go before you to lead you may god go behind you to protect you may god go beneath you -[5695.48 --> 5704.52] to support you and may god go beside you to befriend you do not be afraid let the blessing of god come -[5704.52 --> 5716.84] upon you today do not be afraid but go in peace and humility to love and serve the lord all god's people said amen -[5716.84 --> 5735.16] so -[5735.16 --> 5749.92] We receive your blessing, we receive your grace -[5749.92 --> 5755.78] As we walk in the light shining from your face -[5755.78 --> 5761.52] May the peace that you give change the way that we give -[5761.52 --> 5769.08] We receive your blessing as we leave this place -[5769.08 --> 5778.94] We receive your blessing, we receive your grace -[5778.94 --> 5784.72] As we walk in the light shining from your face -[5784.72 --> 5790.40] May the peace that you give change the way that we give -[5790.40 --> 5797.96] We receive your blessing as we leave this place -[5797.96 --> 5807.40] Praise God, the bloom of blessings flow -[5807.40 --> 5812.40] Praise Him, the creatures here we know -[5812.40 --> 5818.40] Praise Him, above He heavenly woes -[5818.40 --> 5824.20] Praise Father, Son, and praise the Holy Ghost -[5824.20 --> 5830.14] We receive your blessing, we receive your grace -[5830.14 --> 5835.84] As we walk in the light shining from your face -[5835.84 --> 5840.96] May the peace that you give change the way that we give -[5840.96 --> 5848.52] We receive your blessing as we leave this place -[5848.52 --> 5857.92] Praise God, from whom all blessings flow -[5857.92 --> 5862.70] Praise Him, all creatures here below -[5862.70 --> 5869.30] Praise Him, above He heavenly woes -[5869.30 --> 5874.44] Praise Father, Son, and praise the Holy Ghost -[5874.44 --> 5882.26] We receive your blessing as we leave this place -[5882.26 --> 5885.10] Praise God, from where they give you will -[5885.10 --> 5887.66] Praise Father, Son, and praise the Holy Spirit -[5887.66 --> 5889.82] Praise Him, above He heavenly woes -[5889.82 --> 5890.00] Glian incredibly rich astral and rich Awwen fact -[5890.00 --> 5890.94] prechen our Namen about He� -[5890.94 --> 5891.00] We receive the gift of God -[5891.00 --> 5891.96] Praise others here below -[5891.96 --> 5893.44] Praise God,Euuciones -[5893.44 --> 5893.70] Maintaran live science bearers -[5893.70 --> 5893.88] Je ganzheit bosh -[5893.88 --> 5895.10] sehe a songôn liệu -[5895.10 --> 5896.06] Tweak героia lake than you have -[5896.06 --> 5905.76] Zeke절 name puka mi -[5905.76 --> 5906.88] relatedachusetts estruturale -[5906.88 --> 5907.86] Disclaimer about Him, above Heatode wired времени -[5907.86 --> 5937.84] We'll be right back. -[5937.86 --> 5967.84] Thank you. -[5967.86 --> 5997.84] Thank you. -[5997.86 --> 6027.84] Thank you. -[6027.86 --> 6029.86] Thank you. -[6057.86 --> 6059.86] Thank you. -[6087.86 --> 6089.86] Thank you. -[6117.86 --> 6119.86] Thank you. -[6119.86 --> 6121.86] Thank you. -[6121.86 --> 6123.86] Thank you. diff --git a/Exiles in a Pagan Land - The Right Struggle November 7, 2021_summary.txt b/Exiles in a Pagan Land - The Right Struggle November 7, 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 9acdb48daf1321120e6ace55446021b15e40a202..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Exiles in a Pagan Land - The Right Struggle November 7, 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,91 +0,0 @@ -• Singing as a form of worship -• Overcoming storms and battles through faith -• Identity in Christ and crown of glory -• Authority and miracles through Jesus -• Worship service announcements (kids' choir, cadets) -• Upcoming communion celebration -• Preparation for communion and encouragement to reflect on personal relationship with God -• Opening prayer and welcome to worship -• Invitation to praise God with various instruments -• Praise and worship songs, including "Praise the Lord" and "Hallelujah" -• Message about hope, death, and the King being alive -• Call to sing louder and praise in the midst of difficulties -• Final prayers and Amen -• Worship and adoration of God -• Praise for Jesus Christ as the King and Savior -• Acknowledgment of human sin and guilt -• Expression of gratitude for God's love and redemption -• Recognition of God's glory, power, and sovereignty -• Request for deliverance and forgiveness -• Confession of dependence on God and need for His guidance -• Jesus' power over death and sin -• Sponsorship of refugees in the denomination, specifically from Eritrea and the Democratic Republic of the Congo -• Request for generous giving to support the church's work -• Report from council meeting on various activities and initiatives: - - Approving volunteer lists for ministries and programs - - Governance items being reviewed and surveyed - - Classes meetings attended by delegates from the church - - Mexico missions for youth being re-started - - Review of the church budget -• Encouragement to give financially to support the church's work due to a current shortfall -• Encouraging church members to spend time with their families and give generously to support church programs -• Introduction to children's worship time, referencing a past story about a beaver destroying trees at the pastor's house -• Discussion of the plan in 1 Peter 4:12-19, which will be read from scripture during the service -• The speaker recounts their personal experience with tests and exams -• High school vs university experiences: change from dislike to enjoyment -• Discussion of 1 Peter 4, verses 12-19 -• Interpretation of the word "test" in the context of suffering as a Christian -• Explanation of the contrast between worldly expectations and Christian response to suffering -• Peter explains that Christians should not be surprised by trials and suffering -• The purpose of a test or trial is redefined from "proving our faith to God" to "proving our faith genuine or making it stronger" -• A test is compared to setting a personal best in weightlifting, where the focus is on personal growth rather than external validation -• Trials can be opportunities for Christians to rejoice and participate in the sufferings of Christ -• Being insulted or ridiculed for being Christian can be a blessing, as it means the spirit of glory and God rests on them -• The glory of Jesus is found in both his crucifixion (cross) and resurrection (crown) -• The cross precedes the crown, as demonstrated by Philippians 2 -• There can be no resurrection or exaltation without the cross -• The glory of the cross is a necessary step to reach the glory of the crown -• Many people want to experience the glory of the crown without going through the pain and sacrifice of the cross. -• The glory of the cross is what brings the glory of the crown -• Christians live in hope with a living hope -• There is peace that surpasses all understanding for Christians -• The blessing from God is not about having a "best life now" but rather a future reward -• The crown comes at and with the cross, which is insulted by some but brings blessings to those who are persecuted for Christ's name -• The same spirit of glory and God that rested on Jesus when he condescended to us rests on believers today -• The early church and apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit and suffered persecution for preaching the full gospel of Jesus -• The cross and crown will always be seen as folly and a stumbling block by those who do not believe, but are the power and wisdom of God to those being saved. -• The gospel is the power of God unto salvation for all who believe -• Suffering can be seen as a reason to rejoice, as it produces perseverance and character, leading to hope -• Those who suffer with Christ will also share in his glory -• Believers are children of God and co-heirs with Christ -• The cross is necessary to receive the crown of glory -• Some Bible teachers may claim that one can have the crown without suffering the cross, but this is not true -• Being a Christian may cost one's job, popularity, power, and status -• The cross and the crown (eternal reward) come together in the life of Jesus -• Persecution for Christ is a blessing and a sign of being a true follower -• Don't settle for a lesser crown due to shame or fear of the cross -• The importance of not being ashamed of the gospel and declaring it -• Suffering with others, knowing that the trial and test are not for one's own sake alone -• The presence and power of the Holy Spirit in believers, transforming them into the image of Christ -• Not being surprised by suffering or trials, but instead rejoicing in them as a right struggle -• Distinguishing between persecution and the infringement of rights, emphasizing that Christians should not be defined by external circumstances -• The concept of being a "meddler" in English is discussed, with the Greek word meaning a busy body who involves themselves in others' affairs without expertise or warrant. -• Being a meddler can lead to suffering and trials, but if one's intentions are to stand with Jesus, they should not suffer for being a meddler. -• The speaker believes that persecution of Christians will increase and is already happening in the world today. -• A generation of young Christians is rising up who will face this reality, while those over 50 or 60 may be exempt due to their status and relative comfort. -• Situatedness in a changing cultural norm -• Hope for the future despite challenges -• The role of young people (teens, 20s, 30s) in enduring testing and learning to stand -• Perseverance as a church, with God's presence and hope guiding them -• Being a visible hope in the world through selfless faith -• Declaring the gospel of Jesus Christ despite suffering and trials -• The power of God's glory and presence -• Being transformed to radiate the image of Jesus Christ -• Not being afraid, but instead rejoicing and boldly proclaiming the kingdom of God -• The glory in the cross and crown -• Prayer for filling with God's love, majesty, and glory -• Holding onto God's promise to hold fast and give eternal life -• The importance of faith and trust in Jesus, especially during difficult times -• Overcoming fear through the presence of God and living for Him -• Giving oneself fully to Christ and surrendering to His will -• Living a life of devotion and service to Jesus, even in the face of adversity or loss \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Exiles in a Pagan Land - The Right Struggle November 7, 2021_transcript.txt b/Exiles in a Pagan Land - The Right Struggle November 7, 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 9a5d1ae757d6d01d2e1b680e6c4569aea69a877f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Exiles in a Pagan Land - The Right Struggle November 7, 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1632 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.60] Sometimes choosing just to sing -[2.60 --> 9.00] Is the thing that changes everything -[9.00 --> 11.66] Hallelujah -[11.66 --> 16.22] When the storm is relentless -[16.22 --> 17.22] Hallelujah -[17.22 --> 21.88] When the battle is endless -[21.88 --> 24.06] In the middle of the in-between -[24.06 --> 26.72] In the middle of the questioning -[26.72 --> 31.14] Over every worry, every fear -[31.14 --> 34.60] Hallelujah, even here -[34.60 --> 40.70] Hallelujah, even here -[40.70 --> 45.36] Hallelujah, even here -[56.72 --> 76.26] I've tried so hard to see it -[76.26 --> 81.18] Took me so long to believe it -[81.18 --> 85.52] You choose someone like me -[85.52 --> 90.02] To carry your victory -[90.02 --> 95.76] Perfection could never hurt me -[95.76 --> 100.18] You give what we don't deserve -[100.18 --> 105.66] And you take the broken things -[105.66 --> 109.72] And raise them to glory -[109.72 --> 114.60] You are my champion -[114.60 --> 121.18] Giants fall when you stand undefeated -[121.18 --> 125.14] Every battle you've won -[125.14 --> 130.28] I am who you say I am -[130.28 --> 134.32] You crown me with confidence -[134.32 --> 135.96] I am seated -[135.96 --> 140.98] In the heavenly place undefeated -[140.98 --> 145.84] With the one who has conquered it all -[145.84 --> 152.88] Now I can finally see it -[152.88 --> 157.86] You're teaching me how to receive it -[157.86 --> 162.26] So let all this driving cease -[162.26 --> 166.38] Oh, this is my victory -[166.38 --> 170.34] You are my champion -[170.34 --> 171.34] You are my champion -[171.34 --> 177.96] Oh, giants fall when you stand undefeated -[177.96 --> 181.92] Every battle you've won -[181.92 --> 186.98] I am who you say I am -[186.98 --> 190.48] You crown me with confidence -[190.48 --> 192.68] I am seated -[192.68 --> 197.72] In the heavenly place undefeated -[197.72 --> 202.46] With the one who has conquered it all -[202.46 --> 207.48] When I lift my voice in shout -[207.48 --> 212.42] Every wall comes crashing down -[212.42 --> 215.44] I have the authority -[215.44 --> 221.74] Jesus has given me -[221.74 --> 227.34] When I open up my mouth -[227.34 --> 232.04] Miracles start breaking out -[232.04 --> 235.24] I have the authority -[235.24 --> 241.34] Jesus has given me -[241.34 --> 245.16] You are my champion -[245.16 --> 247.12] You are my champion -[247.12 --> 251.84] Giants fall when you stand undefeated -[251.84 --> 253.04] Undefeated -[253.04 --> 255.48] Every battle you've won -[255.48 --> 264.54] He was my champion -[264.54 --> 265.48] And I always have to keep up front of my mouth -[265.48 --> 269.38] In the 한복 -[270.42 --> 271.42] Set up with your shield -[276.14 --> 276.96] I amriad -[276.96 --> 278.64] You are my champion -[278.76 --> 280.72] I show over -[280.72 --> 281.96] I am being recorded -[281.96 --> 287.24] Good morning. -[288.60 --> 290.14] How's everyone doing this morning? -[292.12 --> 293.74] Louder for the people on the live stream. -[293.84 --> 294.84] How's everyone doing this morning? -[295.96 --> 297.52] Hey, there we go. -[297.62 --> 298.08] Thank you. -[298.62 --> 303.08] I'm just standing up here wasting time until Adrian finds his way to the front. -[304.20 --> 304.98] Here he comes. -[305.98 --> 307.00] Everyone, there's Adrian. -[307.14 --> 307.80] Welcome, Adrian. -[307.80 --> 314.10] I do want to welcome you to worship this morning. -[314.32 --> 318.90] If you're visiting with us or if you're checking us out for the first time here or online, -[319.00 --> 319.58] my name is Chris. -[319.98 --> 325.10] I'm one of the pastors here, and it's my privilege, along with these others and a few others you -[325.10 --> 329.70] haven't yet seen, to lead you in worship this morning together. -[329.80 --> 333.64] Before we begin, there's just a couple announcements we want to make. -[333.64 --> 342.26] First, you have been hearing about the kids' choir that will be used as part of our broader -[342.26 --> 348.08] choral Christmas performance that will happen later in this year. -[348.72 --> 355.12] The first practice was scheduled for today after service, but because of circumstances -[355.12 --> 361.02] outside of our control and outside of our church, that first practice is being postponed until -[361.02 --> 361.56] next week. -[361.78 --> 365.26] So next week, Sunday, kids' choir practice after service. -[365.64 --> 368.60] Here, if you have any questions, you can talk to Mark about that. -[370.20 --> 377.30] Also, just a reminder that we have cadets starting, or cadets is this week, Thursday. -[377.42 --> 384.68] And so cadets is a young boys' ministry and program that we run here that happens on Thursday -[384.68 --> 385.04] night. -[385.22 --> 388.46] And so if you have any questions about that, you can grab Daryl, who's over here. -[388.56 --> 389.24] Wave your hand, Daryl. -[389.24 --> 389.70] Thank you. -[390.14 --> 391.52] He will answer your questions. -[391.70 --> 392.74] And Dave, he's over there. -[392.82 --> 393.96] He wants to be acknowledged too. -[394.06 --> 394.58] Yep, Dave. -[394.64 --> 395.06] Very good. -[397.08 --> 399.86] They can answer your questions about what that looks like. -[399.86 --> 403.28] And then finally, I'm going to put this on your hearts. -[403.50 --> 407.34] Next week, in our worship together, we will be celebrating communion. -[407.66 --> 409.76] That is the Lord's Supper or the Eucharist. -[409.76 --> 414.58] And so we will come to the table of God as a community of God. -[414.58 --> 428.50] And so we encourage you to spend this week preparing your hearts, preparing your lives, and talking to your families, if that is your circumstance and situation, so that we can come to the table meaningfully together next week. -[428.50 --> 435.60] If you have any questions about what that might look like for you, please grab me after the service, and I'm happy to address that with you. -[436.46 --> 441.90] Let's stand together as we are called and welcomed by God into his presence. -[441.90 --> 442.90] Let's pray. -[442.90 --> 443.90] Let's pray. -[443.90 --> 447.88] I invite you to receive the greeting of our good God. -[449.42 --> 461.90] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[462.64 --> 463.22] Everyone said? -[464.20 --> 464.60] Amen. -[465.54 --> 466.56] Let's worship God together. -[466.56 --> 466.68] Amen. -[466.68 --> 467.02] Amen. -[469.30 --> 472.24] Join us this morning as we praise the Lord. -[472.92 --> 474.94] Praise God in his sanctuary. -[475.76 --> 477.44] Praise him in his mighty heavens. -[478.34 --> 480.44] Praise him for his mighty deeds. -[481.30 --> 483.62] Praise him according to his surpassing greatness. -[484.70 --> 486.22] Praise him with trumpet sound. -[486.98 --> 488.66] Praise him with lute and harp. -[489.52 --> 492.04] Praise him with tambourine and dance. -[492.68 --> 494.68] Praise him with strings and pipe. -[494.68 --> 497.30] Praise Him with sounding cymbals -[497.30 --> 499.78] Praise Him with loud clashing cymbals -[499.78 --> 501.76] Everything that has breath -[501.76 --> 502.96] Praise the Lord -[502.96 --> 504.42] Praise the Lord -[504.42 --> 523.28] I praise the hallelujah -[523.28 --> 530.44] In the presence of my enemies -[530.44 --> 535.40] I raise the hallelujah -[535.40 --> 542.52] Louder than the unbelief -[542.52 --> 547.22] I raise the hallelujah -[547.22 --> 553.08] My weapon is a melody -[553.08 --> 559.24] I raise the hallelujah -[559.24 --> 566.24] Heaven comes to fight for me -[566.24 --> 573.40] I'm gonna sing in the middle of the storm -[573.40 --> 576.40] Louder and louder -[576.40 --> 579.40] You're gonna hear my praises roar -[579.40 --> 582.56] Up from the ashes -[582.56 --> 586.56] Hope will arise -[586.56 --> 588.88] Death is defeated -[588.88 --> 593.72] The King is alive -[593.72 --> 600.88] I raise the hallelujah -[600.88 --> 603.88] I raise the hallelujah -[603.88 --> 610.88] With everything inside of me -[610.88 --> 615.88] I raise the hallelujah -[615.88 --> 623.04] I will watch the darkness bleed -[623.04 --> 628.04] I raise the hallelujah -[628.04 --> 634.20] In the middle of the mystery -[634.20 --> 638.20] I raise the hallelujah -[638.20 --> 640.20] I raise the hallelujah -[640.20 --> 647.36] Fear you've lost your hold -[647.36 --> 653.36] I'm gonna sing in the middle of the storm -[653.36 --> 654.52] The King is a song -[654.52 --> 656.52] I raise the hallelujah -[656.52 --> 658.52] I raise the hallelujah -[658.52 --> 660.52] I raise the hallelujah -[660.52 --> 661.52] I raise the hallelujah -[661.52 --> 668.68] Up from the thunder -[668.68 --> 670.12] And your 하나 when the quarter is not -[670.12 --> 670.72] The King is deaf -[670.72 --> 672.18] The King comes to die -[672.18 --> 672.68] All theands of God -[672.68 --> 673.68] Shaun's Thousand corner -[673.68 --> 674.68] The King is His Holy ancestors -[674.68 --> 704.66] Sing a little louder -[704.68 --> 734.66] Sing a little louder -[734.68 --> 736.68] Sing a little louder -[737.68 --> 740.68] My weapon is a melody -[741.20 --> 743.68] Sing a little louder -[743.68 --> 747.68] Heaven comes to fight for me -[747.68 --> 749.68] Sing a little louder -[749.68 --> 752.68] In the presence of my enemies -[753.20 --> 754.68] Sing a little louder -[755.68 --> 758.68] Louder than the unbelief -[758.68 --> 760.68] Sing a little louder -[760.68 --> 764.68] My weapon is a melody -[764.68 --> 766.68] Sing a little louder -[766.68 --> 770.68] Heaven comes to fight for me -[770.68 --> 772.68] Sing a little louder -[772.68 --> 775.68] I'm gonna sing -[775.68 --> 778.68] In the middle of the storm -[778.68 --> 781.68] Louder and louder -[781.68 --> 784.68] You're gonna hear my praises roar -[784.68 --> 787.68] Up from the ashes -[787.68 --> 790.68] Hope will arise -[790.68 --> 793.68] Death is defeated -[793.68 --> 796.68] The King is alive -[796.68 --> 798.68] I'm gonna sing -[798.68 --> 799.68] I'm gonna sing -[799.68 --> 801.68] In the middle of the storm -[801.68 --> 802.68] I'm gonna sing -[802.68 --> 803.68] In the middle of the storm -[803.68 --> 804.68] Louder and louder -[804.68 --> 808.68] You're gonna hear my praises roar -[808.68 --> 811.68] Roar up from the ashes -[811.68 --> 814.68] Hope will arise -[814.68 --> 816.68] Death is defeated -[816.68 --> 820.68] The King is alive -[820.68 --> 826.68] I raise a hallelujah -[826.68 --> 830.68] I raise a hallelujah -[830.68 --> 832.68] I raise a hallelujah -[832.68 --> 835.68] I raise a hallelujah -[835.68 --> 842.68] I raise a hallelujah -[842.68 --> 847.68] I raise a hallelujah -[847.68 --> 849.68] Amen. -[877.68 --> 879.68] Amen. -[907.68 --> 913.30] Who has numbered every grain of sand? -[913.86 --> 919.66] Kings and nations tremble at His voice. -[920.28 --> 925.80] All creation rises to rejoice. -[928.18 --> 936.32] Behold, our God seated on His throne. -[936.32 --> 940.32] Come, let us adore Him. -[941.44 --> 946.36] Behold, our King. -[946.74 --> 949.32] Nothing can compare. -[950.34 --> 956.32] Come, let us adore Him. -[966.32 --> 974.70] Who has given counsel to the Lord? -[974.94 --> 980.32] Who can question any of His words? -[981.48 --> 986.32] Who can teach the one who knows all things? -[986.32 --> 994.32] Who can fathom all His wondrous deeds? -[994.32 --> 1003.70] Behold, our God seated on His throne. -[1004.08 --> 1007.32] Come, let us adore Him. -[1007.32 --> 1013.24] Behold, our King. -[1013.70 --> 1016.32] Nothing can compare. -[1017.08 --> 1022.32] Come, let us adore Him. -[1022.32 --> 1041.24] Who has felt the nails upon His hands? -[1041.24 --> 1047.74] Bearing all the guilt of sinful man. -[1048.36 --> 1054.38] God eternal, humbled to the grave. -[1055.04 --> 1061.62] Jesus, Savior, risen now to reign. -[1061.62 --> 1062.62] Behold, our King. -[1062.62 --> 1066.62] Behold, our King. -[1066.62 --> 1067.62] God eternal, Lord, our King. -[1067.62 --> 1068.62] Behold, our King. -[1068.62 --> 1069.62] God eternal, Lord, our King. -[1069.62 --> 1070.62] Behold, our King. -[1070.62 --> 1075.62] Come, let us adore Him. -[1075.62 --> 1079.62] Behold, our King. -[1079.62 --> 1080.62] Nothing can compare. -[1080.62 --> 1082.62] Nothing can compare. -[1082.62 --> 1086.62] God let us adore Him. -[1086.62 --> 1092.62] You will reign forever. -[1092.62 --> 1096.62] You will reign forever. -[1096.62 --> 1098.62] You will reign forever. -[1098.62 --> 1100.62] You will reign forever. -[1100.62 --> 1105.62] You will reign forever. -[1105.62 --> 1115.62] Let your glory fill the earth. -[1115.62 --> 1121.62] Let your glory fill the earth. -[1121.62 --> 1130.62] You will reign forever. -[1130.62 --> 1136.28] Let your glory fill the earth. -[1136.28 --> 1141.94] Let your glory fill the earth. -[1143.60 --> 1148.86] Let your glory fill the earth. -[1149.86 --> 1156.16] Our God, seated on His throne, -[1156.16 --> 1160.82] Come let us adore Him. -[1161.98 --> 1165.98] Behold our King, -[1166.28 --> 1168.70] Nothing can compare, -[1169.74 --> 1175.52] Come let us adore Him. -[1186.16 --> 1189.38] O God, we come before you. -[1189.70 --> 1193.10] We enter into your sanctuary to bring praises to you. -[1193.90 --> 1197.00] Seated on your throne, we come to adore you, our King. -[1198.00 --> 1201.22] With us we bring our pain and suffering and sin, -[1201.72 --> 1203.30] Some wearing it on their sleeves, -[1203.72 --> 1205.48] Others keeping it hidden and in secret, -[1206.22 --> 1207.20] But you see it all. -[1207.88 --> 1211.06] God, whether we are approaching you for the first time, -[1211.06 --> 1212.24] The tenth time, -[1212.94 --> 1213.72] The hundredth, -[1213.72 --> 1214.36] Thousandth, -[1214.44 --> 1215.36] The millionth time, -[1215.96 --> 1218.46] Your grace is a well too great to fathom, -[1218.86 --> 1220.80] And your love exceeds the heaven's reach -[1220.80 --> 1223.78] To where we, so lowly and broken, come to you. -[1224.50 --> 1225.10] You say, -[1225.92 --> 1227.78] Call upon me in your day of trouble, -[1228.10 --> 1229.18] I will deliver you, -[1229.60 --> 1231.12] And you shall glorify me. -[1231.82 --> 1232.36] You say, -[1232.62 --> 1235.82] I will cleanse you from all our guilt of our sin against me, -[1235.82 --> 1239.88] And will forgive all the guilt of your sin and rebellion against me. -[1240.64 --> 1244.86] You humbled yourself from a place of glory and died for our sins. -[1245.36 --> 1247.86] You called us to yourself in our times of trouble. -[1248.78 --> 1251.76] May we turn to the world around us and bring glory to you, -[1252.10 --> 1254.30] The gracious Savior of our ruined lives. -[1254.72 --> 1257.80] For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost. -[1258.80 --> 1259.96] In your name we pray. -[1260.32 --> 1260.64] Amen. -[1265.82 --> 1279.08] Jesus, was той taken one of course to us and did not see you, -[1279.08 --> 1279.88] Oh God, I will gift you, -[1279.88 --> 1281.36] Oh Lord, I will deliver you to our sins again, -[1281.36 --> 1283.98] Oh Lord, as we will deliver you to your Savior. -[1283.98 --> 1304.14] O Lord, my rock and my redeemer, greatest treasure of my longing soul. -[1304.14 --> 1317.82] My God, like you there is no other, true delight is found in you alone. -[1318.44 --> 1333.10] Your grace, a wealth too deep to fathom, your love exceeds the heavens reach. -[1333.10 --> 1347.10] Your truth, a fount of perfect wisdom, my highest good and my unending need. -[1347.10 --> 1365.24] O Lord, my rock and my redeemer, strong defender of my weary heart. -[1365.24 --> 1379.68] My sword to fight the cruel deceiver, and my shield against its hateful doors. -[1379.68 --> 1386.58] My song, when enemies surround me. -[1387.48 --> 1394.24] My hope, when tides of sorrow rise. -[1394.54 --> 1399.82] My joy, when trials are appounding. -[1399.82 --> 1408.68] Your faithfulness, my refuge in the night. -[1408.68 --> 1426.68] O Lord, my rock and my redeemer, gracious Savior of my ruined life. -[1426.68 --> 1434.04] My guilt and cross laid on your shoulders. -[1434.04 --> 1441.76] In my place, you suffered, bled, and died. -[1441.76 --> 1447.44] You rose, the grave and death are conquered. -[1449.44 --> 1456.32] You broke my bonds of sin and shame. -[1456.32 --> 1462.06] You rose, the grave and death are conquered. -[1463.94 --> 1469.76] You broke my bonds of sin and shame. -[1469.76 --> 1471.68] You broke my bonds. -[1471.68 --> 1473.26] You broke my bonds. -[1473.26 --> 1477.32] You broke my bonds. -[1477.32 --> 1479.62] You broke my bonds. -[1479.62 --> 1480.16] You broke my bonds. -[1480.16 --> 1481.50] You broke my bonds. -[1481.50 --> 1482.22] You broke my bonds with me. -[1482.22 --> 1483.04] You broke my bonds. -[1483.04 --> 1486.78] You broke my bonds. -[1486.78 --> 1488.20] You broke your bonds. -[1488.28 --> 1488.58] You broke my bonds. -[1488.58 --> 1488.78] You broke my bonds. -[1488.78 --> 1489.50] I broke your bonds. -[1489.50 --> 1490.64] You broke my bonds. -[1490.64 --> 1492.54] You broke my bonds with me. -[1492.54 --> 1494.12] You broke my bonds. -[1494.16 --> 1495.58] You broke my bonds. -[1495.58 --> 1496.68] You broke my bonds. -[1496.68 --> 1497.50] You fixed my bonds. -[1497.50 --> 1497.78] You broke my bonds. -[1497.78 --> 1527.76] Thank you. -[1527.78 --> 1557.76] Thank you. -[1557.78 --> 1559.78] Thank you. -[1559.78 --> 1561.78] Thank you. -[1561.78 --> 1591.78] -[1591.78 --> 1593.78] Thank you. -[1593.78 --> 1595.78] Thank you. -[1595.78 --> 1596.78] Thank you. -[1596.78 --> 1598.78] Thank you. -[1598.78 --> 1599.78] Thank you. -[1599.78 --> 1600.78] Thank you. -[1600.78 --> 1601.78] Thank you. -[1601.78 --> 1605.12] Eritrea, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. -[1606.22 --> 1613.14] 68 CRC churches at present are working on sponsoring refugees in our denomination. -[1613.96 --> 1620.12] So, and hopefully at some point we will also be re-sponsoring or sponsoring again someone -[1620.12 --> 1623.06] coming from one of these countries. -[1624.20 --> 1628.04] So today we ask you to please give generously as the Lord has given you. -[1631.78 --> 1661.76] Thank you. -[1661.78 --> 1663.78] Thank you. -[1663.78 --> 1665.78] Thank you. -[1665.78 --> 1695.78] -[1695.78 --> 1697.78] Thank you. -[1697.78 --> 1699.78] Thank you. -[1699.78 --> 1701.78] Thank you. -[1701.78 --> 1703.78] Thank you. -[1703.78 --> 1705.78] Thank you. -[1705.78 --> 1707.78] Thank you. -[1707.78 --> 1709.78] Thank you. -[1709.78 --> 1711.78] Thank you. -[1711.78 --> 1713.78] Thank you. -[1713.78 --> 1715.78] Thank you. -[1715.78 --> 1717.78] Thank you. -[1717.78 --> 1719.78] Thank you. -[1719.78 --> 1721.78] Thank you. -[1721.78 --> 1723.78] Thank you. -[1723.78 --> 1725.78] Thank you. -[1725.78 --> 1727.78] Thank you. -[1727.78 --> 1729.78] Thank you. -[1729.78 --> 1733.82] Every hour I need Thee. -[1733.82 --> 1744.82] O bless me now, my Savior, I come to Thee. -[1746.54 --> 1755.78] I need Thee every hour in joy or pain. -[1755.78 --> 1764.62] Come quickly and abide, for life is bring. -[1765.02 --> 1769.78] I need Thee, O I need Thee. -[1770.14 --> 1773.72] Every hour I need Thee. -[1774.04 --> 1783.78] O bless me now, my Savior, I come to Thee. -[1785.78 --> 1795.08] O bless me now, my Savior, I come to Thee. -[1795.08 --> 1799.22] O bless me now, my Savior, I come to Thee. -[1799.22 --> 1807.72] all right i'm here this morning we had to give you a report on council your council has been -[1807.72 --> 1811.94] busy we had a meeting this past week and i thought it'd be a good idea just to give you -[1811.94 --> 1816.52] some highlights of what we've been up to or what we're doing in those meetings -[1816.52 --> 1825.66] thing of great pride is that we had an opportunity to approve the volunteer list for all the -[1825.66 --> 1830.04] different things that are happening at our church both ministries and programs and stuff so it was -[1830.04 --> 1835.60] really awesome to go through that list as council to see how many of you are supporting and contributing -[1835.60 --> 1839.10] to the ministries and programs here so we were able to go through all that that was great -[1839.10 --> 1846.50] pastor chris reported on some of the governance items we're working on and reviewing at the church -[1846.50 --> 1853.80] tracy is working with him on that as part of the doing some surveys and trying to gather information -[1853.80 --> 1858.46] on uh what how things have been going and where where we should be going in the future to make -[1858.46 --> 1866.62] things more optimal uh we had a bunch of uh delegates from this or a bunch of council members from this -[1866.62 --> 1871.34] church that went to the classes meetings last couple weeks ago so we got a report on that so -[1871.34 --> 1876.08] that was good to hear about what's going on in our classes and in the denomination in general -[1876.08 --> 1884.90] and we another uh cool thing that's going on is we had a report from brandon muller it's interesting -[1884.90 --> 1890.24] getting mexico missions for the youth going again so he's going to start putting a little bit of work -[1890.24 --> 1894.38] into that and seeing where that takes us with kovid we're not sure what's all going to happen but we -[1894.38 --> 1901.58] kind of encouraged him to start working on that and see where that heads and we reviewed the budget -[1901.58 --> 1908.30] and uh had a good conversation about that so we're ready to uh to pass that on to you for the -[1908.30 --> 1914.10] congregational meeting that is coming up on december 6th so that's what we've been up to so we were busy -[1914.10 --> 1918.36] this week so that was it was good to get together with all the new council members and to have some -[1918.36 --> 1924.74] time to talk about the life of the church on that note i want to this is the kind of the time of the -[1924.74 --> 1931.08] year we start talking about we're getting to the end of our year and to talk about uh the budget and uh we -[1931.08 --> 1936.54] have a shortfall happening right now so uh we want to encourage everyone to spend some time this week -[1936.54 --> 1942.12] thinking about how they can uh give to this church we've got some good vibe going some good momentum -[1942.12 --> 1947.86] going so we want everybody to kind of spend some time at home with your families to seeing how you can -[1947.86 --> 1952.44] give generously to this church to keep these programs and ministries and the lights on in this in this -[1952.44 --> 1959.18] building so we would like to encourage you to do that and i'm doing double shift here today so the next thing -[1959.18 --> 1962.60] up is children's worship time so let's have all the kids come up front please -[1962.60 --> 1983.06] good morning everybody how are you guys doing good -[1983.06 --> 1990.64] i haven't seen you guys in a while it's been a month i think did you guys miss me yes good answer -[1990.64 --> 1998.92] so when i was here remember we were in children's worship time in the back room i had a major problem -[1998.92 --> 2004.82] going on at my house does anybody remember what that was all about yeah a beaver i had a beaver at -[2004.82 --> 2009.04] my house and there was chopping down does anybody know how many trees he took down does anybody remember -[2009.04 --> 2015.96] how many there were no zoe do you remember close i had three two trees come down so i got some more -[2015.96 --> 2019.88] information for you later in the back room about how we dealt with these remember you guys helped me -[2019.88 --> 2025.90] with it we came up with some solutions all right anyway i had a plan there and the plan actually -[2025.90 --> 2030.56] started to work you guys helped me with the plan and today we're talking about a plan in children's -[2030.56 --> 2034.46] worship time it's actually one of my favorite stories in the bible it's about joseph does anybody know -[2034.46 --> 2042.48] this story about joseph well we're going to hear about it today god had a plan and and his plan was -[2042.48 --> 2046.58] executed even though some people try to get in the way of the plan but at the end of the day god -[2046.58 --> 2050.02] made his plan come true so we're going to hear about that today is that going to be exciting -[2050.02 --> 2057.96] yeah shake your hand all right how about we do the blessing and then we can head off to -[2057.96 --> 2066.34] children's worship time let's do it everybody stand up all right everybody ready -[2066.34 --> 2072.22] the lord be with you and also with you -[2072.22 --> 2073.82] all right -[2087.96 --> 2106.58] let's come to the lord in our church family prayer -[2106.58 --> 2117.38] we will exalt you oh god the king we will praise your name forever and ever -[2117.38 --> 2124.76] every day we will praise you and extol your name forever and ever great are you lord and most worthy -[2124.76 --> 2131.88] of praise your greatness no one can fathom we will celebrate your abundance abundant goodness and we -[2131.88 --> 2139.02] will joyfully sing of your righteousness lord you are gracious and compassionate slow to anger and rich -[2139.02 --> 2144.20] in love lord you are good to all and have compassion on all that you have made -[2144.20 --> 2151.68] god you are near to all who call on your name who call on your name in truth you will watch over -[2151.68 --> 2155.36] all who love you lord and may every creature praise your name -[2155.36 --> 2165.32] lord god psalm 145 rings true always and yet as we praise your name here this morning there are things -[2165.32 --> 2172.30] in this world we do not understand we think of places in the world where there is war places where -[2172.30 --> 2178.30] dictators reign where governments are corrupt where guerrilla warfare rages on -[2178.30 --> 2186.34] places where famine and drought are normal where kids can't eat and mothers can't drink places where -[2186.34 --> 2194.62] education is hard to come by and disease is easy to come by places where suffering is allowed persecution -[2194.62 --> 2203.36] is encouraged and death is feared god our father we pray for the people whom that is a reality for today -[2203.36 --> 2209.54] in the midst of their suffering may your spirit be working in the midst of that suffering may your church -[2209.54 --> 2216.58] be reaching in the midst of that suffering make us aware of how we can be instruments of your change -[2216.58 --> 2218.14] your love your peace -[2218.14 --> 2225.74] close to home lord in canada and here in langley we pray for our leaders pray for the decisions that they -[2225.74 --> 2233.20] make lord god unite our nation not under a political platform but with a love and respect for people and -[2233.20 --> 2239.06] their views may accountability be practiced and when disagreements occur may your spirit lead -[2239.06 --> 2240.34] healthy discussions -[2240.34 --> 2248.18] in this church god we are grateful for all you have blessed us with thank you for children and for -[2248.18 --> 2254.08] seniors for youth for parents for those who are married for those who are single and the range of people -[2254.08 --> 2261.12] in this congregation thank you for ministries that are up and running for pastor chris and josh and -[2261.12 --> 2266.74] sylvia and maryland and grace and all of the wonderful volunteers that make your church function -[2266.74 --> 2273.70] as the body in this community thank you for all of the things that make emmanuel crc the church that it is -[2275.70 --> 2283.38] and in that joy god move us to be more christ-like with our time with our service to the community -[2284.42 --> 2288.18] with our love for each other with our finances -[2288.18 --> 2295.14] be with those who are dealing with health concerns like willie bob benita and janet and many more in -[2295.14 --> 2300.58] our congregation pray for those who are still dealing with the ramifications of this pandemic -[2300.58 --> 2306.50] for those who are sick who've lost loved ones who find themselves in relational tensions due to -[2306.50 --> 2314.26] differences in opinion may you reign through all of this lord god pray for those in our community who are -[2314.26 --> 2320.90] shut in who are anxious who are depressed or who are just having a hard go of life right now -[2322.42 --> 2328.50] lord may they know that you are there with them always and may we as your body their brothers and -[2328.50 --> 2338.42] sisters be present for them all too and lord be with us now as we open your word be with pastor chris as -[2338.42 --> 2344.90] he brings your word to us and may we hear your voice tugging at our hearts today give us the wisdom -[2344.90 --> 2353.46] and the courage not only to hear your word today but to act on it as well in jesus name who lived and died -[2353.46 --> 2367.46] and rose again for us all we pray amen -[2383.46 --> 2402.50] christ has been listening to him and we hold uporus this week -[2408.02 --> 2411.54] we hope we look back -[2411.54 --> 2416.22] All right, use this time to sign the Bible to open it in 1 Peter 4. -[2427.18 --> 2428.48] About now, hey. -[2434.96 --> 2439.40] As I said, in just a minute, we are going to read from 1 Peter 4. -[2439.40 --> 2443.64] We're going to start at verse 12, and we'll carry through to the end of that chapter. -[2444.92 --> 2450.52] As you are getting that ready, I'm going to lead us into the text this morning. -[2451.02 --> 2453.22] I had a chance this week. -[2453.30 --> 2457.74] I was talking to someone who's taking some university classes right now, -[2457.80 --> 2460.00] and they had a final last week. -[2460.04 --> 2462.02] And so I started thinking about tests. -[2462.88 --> 2466.28] How many of you take tests in your life on a regular basis? -[2467.14 --> 2469.62] Here's like university or school-aged kids. -[2471.02 --> 2476.82] When I was in high school, I hated tests. -[2477.50 --> 2481.60] Now, I wasn't a very good student, mind you, so that might be part of the reason. -[2482.16 --> 2484.22] And I was also a bit of a... -[2485.22 --> 2488.60] I don't know what the polite company word for it is. -[2489.00 --> 2490.94] I wasn't the kind of student you wanted to have. -[2490.94 --> 2495.38] And so one day, I remember getting a test, sitting down in the class. -[2495.46 --> 2498.14] The teacher walked around and put the test on all of our desks. -[2498.30 --> 2502.12] And I spent about four minutes flipping through the pages, looking at it and going, -[2502.38 --> 2503.58] I don't know any of this stuff. -[2503.62 --> 2504.62] So I wrote my name on it. -[2504.70 --> 2506.02] I walked up to the front of the class. -[2506.10 --> 2507.20] I put it on the teacher's desk. -[2507.52 --> 2509.42] And I said, I don't know any of this. -[2509.64 --> 2511.64] And she said, well, can't you just guess? -[2512.32 --> 2514.70] And I said, can't you be a better teacher? -[2514.70 --> 2520.58] Yeah, I was that kind of kid. -[2524.10 --> 2527.64] Elementary and high school-age kids, that's not the takeaway from today's message. -[2529.30 --> 2530.00] Sorry, Kobe. -[2533.28 --> 2536.42] Now, fast forward a few years, and I go to university. -[2537.92 --> 2542.76] And I would be the first to tell you that I loved tests. -[2542.76 --> 2545.84] In fact, I loved exam season. -[2546.18 --> 2551.72] When exam season came around as a university student, I got excited because it was an awesome -[2551.72 --> 2556.32] opportunity to think back on everything that I had learned and to really engage in that -[2556.32 --> 2563.16] semester-long process of taking in all of this information and having a chance to write -[2563.16 --> 2564.70] out our answers. -[2564.88 --> 2566.46] I remember I wrote one exam. -[2567.10 --> 2568.66] We had a three-hour time slot. -[2568.66 --> 2575.78] I took three and a half hours, and I wrote, I think it was 22 pages front and back of full -[2575.78 --> 2576.42] scat paper. -[2576.54 --> 2580.22] So that's the long exam paper, front and back, 22 sheets. -[2580.40 --> 2582.26] So that's 44 pages. -[2582.92 --> 2585.34] Just wrote and wrote and wrote furiously. -[2585.60 --> 2587.14] And I loved every minute of it. -[2588.30 --> 2589.50] Now, what was the difference? -[2591.14 --> 2592.84] I actually liked what I was doing. -[2592.84 --> 2598.32] Now, sure, I was a little bit more mature and responsible, but I understood the purpose -[2598.32 --> 2600.76] of the test. -[2602.60 --> 2606.04] And so I was able to experience joy in taking it. -[2607.48 --> 2608.62] Your Bibles are open. -[2609.68 --> 2612.64] 1 Peter 4, starting in verse 12. -[2612.64 --> 2622.88] Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come upon you to test you -[2622.88 --> 2626.40] as though something strange were happening to you. -[2627.52 --> 2636.32] But rejoice in as much as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be -[2636.32 --> 2639.42] overjoyed when his glory is revealed. -[2639.42 --> 2645.36] If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed. -[2646.14 --> 2649.40] For the spirit of glory and of God rests on you. -[2650.70 --> 2658.06] If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or a thief or any kind of criminal or even as a meddler. -[2659.32 --> 2667.40] However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. -[2667.40 --> 2672.20] For it is time for judgment to begin with God's household. -[2673.02 --> 2678.60] And if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? -[2679.68 --> 2687.94] And if it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner? -[2687.94 --> 2699.66] So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful creator and continue to do good. -[2700.30 --> 2701.52] This is the word of the Lord. -[2701.52 --> 2711.00] Now, Peter jumps right in in this text, and so we're going to do the same. -[2711.08 --> 2713.34] He jumps right in, and he says, -[2713.46 --> 2717.46] Dear friends, or if you remember last week, we looked a little bit more closely at that word, -[2717.56 --> 2719.34] and it means beloved, right? -[2719.36 --> 2721.52] Or beloved is the old pronunciation. -[2721.86 --> 2723.72] That is God's chosen. -[2724.02 --> 2725.64] You are loved of God. -[2725.64 --> 2734.66] And so those loved of God, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that's come upon you to test you. -[2735.90 --> 2739.90] Now, we're going to spend a moment in that word test, but just quickly, -[2740.24 --> 2748.54] that word surprise, the do not be surprised, is the same word that Peter used back in verse 4 of this chapter. -[2748.54 --> 2750.98] Now, we didn't read that, but Peter says there, -[2751.42 --> 2757.32] They, that is the pagan world around, the people who are not part of the church family of God, -[2757.52 --> 2766.16] they are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless wild living, and they heap abuse on you. -[2767.00 --> 2776.06] So for Peter, by using that word in two places, it is a contrast of expectations, right? -[2776.06 --> 2780.00] They are surprised, and we shouldn't be surprised. -[2780.96 --> 2786.00] They are surprised by what we as Christians do, and the way we as Christians live together, -[2786.50 --> 2792.68] and we as Christians aren't surprised by their reactions to that, -[2792.76 --> 2800.50] and by the trials, the suffering, or the testing that comes as a result of being Christian. -[2800.50 --> 2811.76] And instead of surprise, then, Peter wants us to reframe, or to rightly frame, -[2812.02 --> 2816.92] what those trials are, what those fiery ordeals might be. -[2817.76 --> 2821.86] He says that they come to test you. -[2823.20 --> 2826.70] Now, what is a test for? -[2826.70 --> 2834.08] The word that's used here by Peter in Greek, in the original language that this is written in, -[2834.14 --> 2838.60] is used in a few other places as well, and so we can use those to help us understand. -[2839.46 --> 2842.78] In Matthew 6, Jesus teaches us to pray by saying, -[2843.00 --> 2844.48] Lead us not into temptation. -[2845.36 --> 2847.98] That word, temptation, is the same one that Peter uses. -[2848.62 --> 2850.84] So we could say, lead us not into testing. -[2850.84 --> 2857.62] Or in Luke 8, in the parable of the sower, you remember that story that Jesus tells, -[2859.20 --> 2865.84] the seed that gets cast out in among the weeds, Jesus explains, he says, -[2865.96 --> 2868.64] In the time of testing, they fall away. -[2869.84 --> 2874.26] Or again, in 1 Corinthians 10, Paul there writes, -[2874.26 --> 2879.58] No trial has come to you except that which is common to all. -[2880.20 --> 2882.12] The word trial is the same one. -[2883.02 --> 2885.86] We looked recently in this church in the book of James. -[2886.00 --> 2887.26] James 1.21 says, -[2887.38 --> 2893.58] Consider it pure joy, brothers and sisters, when you face many trials of many kinds. -[2895.64 --> 2899.58] So what is the purpose of a test or of a trial? -[2899.58 --> 2900.08] Right? -[2901.18 --> 2902.20] And here's the thing. -[2902.28 --> 2908.88] When you are in school, you have a test in order to prove to the teacher or to the professor -[2908.88 --> 2910.56] that this is what you've learned. -[2912.04 --> 2913.80] Is that what Peter means? -[2915.68 --> 2916.18] Right? -[2916.26 --> 2921.80] And in this case then, if a test is to prove what we have learned to the teacher, -[2922.04 --> 2924.92] in that case, would the teacher here be God? -[2926.22 --> 2926.68] Right? -[2926.68 --> 2933.82] Are tests in life and trials and temptations, are they to prove to God that we've got it all figured out? -[2933.88 --> 2935.06] That we've got it right? -[2935.14 --> 2938.26] That, you know, in the core of our being we've really changed? -[2938.82 --> 2939.06] Right? -[2939.08 --> 2942.66] That we've checked all the doctrine boxes of knowing what to do. -[2942.74 --> 2946.88] We can answer all the Heidelberg Catechism or New City Catechism questions. -[2947.24 --> 2947.44] Right? -[2947.50 --> 2949.20] And that we've now made it? -[2950.32 --> 2951.70] Is that what a test is like? -[2951.70 --> 2958.18] And if that's what a test is like, are we able to, at some point in that journey, say to the teacher, -[2958.84 --> 2959.84] you should have taught me better? -[2962.32 --> 2967.64] Or is a test in Peter's construction, it's not going to surprise you, I think it's this latter one, -[2967.64 --> 2973.48] is it more like a weightlifter going for a personal best? -[2974.48 --> 2974.60] Right? -[2974.66 --> 2975.10] A PB. -[2976.10 --> 2976.30] Right? -[2976.34 --> 2987.14] And that if you lift a max weight until failure or you increase your bench press weight until you can only do one clean, proper form, drop and press. -[2987.38 --> 2987.54] Right? -[2987.58 --> 2989.44] That's your fail point. -[2989.54 --> 2991.28] That's your new personal best. -[2991.28 --> 2996.42] And in that case, right, that's a test of your personal ability. -[2996.54 --> 2998.22] In that case, who is the test for? -[2999.56 --> 3000.92] The test is for you. -[3002.02 --> 3009.88] As you learn what your personal best is, as you learn what your limit is, I think that is what Peter has in mind. -[3010.46 --> 3010.64] Right? -[3010.66 --> 3015.90] That the test, the trial, the struggle isn't to prove your faith to God. -[3015.90 --> 3022.26] It's to prove your faith genuine or to make your faith stronger to you. -[3023.84 --> 3029.76] And that's why, ultimately, you can rejoice, if we follow the logic of Peter, when the trial comes, -[3030.02 --> 3034.42] because it means that you are participating in the sufferings of Christ. -[3034.54 --> 3034.60] Right? -[3034.84 --> 3035.76] Here's what I mean. -[3035.76 --> 3042.86] When the world does to us as Christians what it did to Jesus in his life and death, -[3042.98 --> 3048.50] it can only be because when they look at us, they see Jesus. -[3050.54 --> 3056.08] If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, Peter says, -[3056.32 --> 3060.08] for the spirit of glory and of God rests on you. -[3060.08 --> 3067.62] Have you ever been made fun of for being Christian? -[3068.78 --> 3072.60] Have you ever been looked down on or been ridiculed for being Christian? -[3072.68 --> 3079.82] Have you ever been passed over for a promotion or not gotten a job because you don't fit the company culture -[3079.82 --> 3084.12] that has the idolatry of busyness and profit at any cost? -[3084.12 --> 3089.22] Or have your teammates not invited you to the after party? -[3089.64 --> 3094.24] Or have your teammates gotten quiet when you walk into the locker room after the game -[3094.24 --> 3096.28] just because you've entered that space? -[3097.46 --> 3104.90] Or how about a family member who just doesn't get it when you're starting to grow in faith? -[3105.26 --> 3108.60] Who just doesn't understand your new Christian faith? -[3109.48 --> 3112.62] When these things happen to you, what do you feel? -[3112.62 --> 3116.00] What's going on in your heart in that moment? -[3116.80 --> 3121.92] And to be frank, if those things never happen to you, why not? -[3130.96 --> 3134.78] Do you rejoice when you're ridiculed? -[3135.30 --> 3138.00] Do you feel blessed when you are insulted? -[3138.28 --> 3139.62] Do you glorify God? -[3139.62 --> 3139.64] Do you glorify God? -[3142.62 --> 3146.20] Or do you get scared? -[3148.70 --> 3155.32] Are you ashamed or embarrassed and worried about what they might be thinking of you? -[3160.84 --> 3164.76] We're going to live in that tension for a little while this morning. -[3164.76 --> 3170.70] To help us live in that tension, I want you to hear this. -[3172.94 --> 3176.22] The glory of Jesus in the cross -[3176.22 --> 3181.78] is the same as the glory of Jesus in the crown. -[3182.64 --> 3185.10] Now, I'm going to use that image and that phrase -[3185.10 --> 3186.90] for the rest of our time together this morning. -[3186.90 --> 3191.46] So, let it situate and land and percolate in your mind space, right? -[3191.50 --> 3193.12] The cross and the crown. -[3194.88 --> 3195.58] Here's what I mean. -[3195.64 --> 3198.54] The glory of Jesus in the crown, right, -[3198.60 --> 3200.46] is referenced to his resurrection, -[3200.98 --> 3202.58] to his exaltation. -[3202.84 --> 3205.86] The glory of Jesus in the crown is the empty tomb -[3205.86 --> 3208.78] and his ascension to the right hand of the Father. -[3208.78 --> 3213.72] The glory of Jesus in the crown is his return to this world as king -[3213.72 --> 3216.24] over all creation in the consummation, -[3216.56 --> 3217.68] the end of history, -[3217.94 --> 3221.44] when that celestial city comes down forever -[3221.44 --> 3223.72] and heaven and earth are one -[3223.72 --> 3224.70] and there is no temple -[3224.70 --> 3226.58] because God has made his dwelling among us -[3226.58 --> 3231.32] and Jesus lives here with us as face to face. -[3231.32 --> 3233.92] That's the glory of the crown. -[3235.68 --> 3236.04] And, -[3236.60 --> 3242.80] and there is glory in the cross. -[3243.80 --> 3248.46] The glory in the cross is his suffering, right? -[3248.50 --> 3250.52] There's glory in his agony. -[3250.78 --> 3252.74] There's glory in his death. -[3252.90 --> 3255.52] There is glory in Jesus emptying himself -[3255.52 --> 3257.78] and taking on the nature of a slave. -[3257.94 --> 3261.30] There is glory in him becoming obedient unto death. -[3261.74 --> 3263.74] Even death on the cross. -[3263.82 --> 3264.12] And in fact, -[3264.36 --> 3266.08] let me just stay right there for a minute, right? -[3266.14 --> 3267.48] Here in Philippians 2, -[3268.80 --> 3269.40] Paul writes, -[3269.86 --> 3270.22] Jesus, -[3271.38 --> 3273.82] being in very nature God, -[3274.14 --> 3276.06] did not consider equality with God -[3276.06 --> 3278.12] something to be used for his own advantage. -[3278.78 --> 3279.04] Rather, -[3279.26 --> 3280.68] he made himself nothing -[3280.68 --> 3283.20] by taking on the very nature of a slave, -[3283.58 --> 3286.02] being made in human likeness. -[3286.02 --> 3288.36] And being found in appearance as a man, -[3288.46 --> 3289.56] he humbled himself -[3289.56 --> 3292.52] by becoming obedient unto death. -[3292.68 --> 3294.48] Even death on the cross. -[3294.60 --> 3294.82] And then, -[3295.16 --> 3295.84] hear this word, -[3296.40 --> 3297.02] therefore. -[3299.56 --> 3301.90] God exalted him to the highest place -[3301.90 --> 3302.88] and gave him the name -[3302.88 --> 3304.80] that is above every name. -[3305.72 --> 3306.42] Now hear that, right? -[3306.54 --> 3308.64] He became obedient unto death. -[3308.64 --> 3309.92] Even death on a cross. -[3310.10 --> 3310.88] And therefore, -[3311.40 --> 3311.56] right? -[3311.64 --> 3312.02] Therefore, -[3312.02 --> 3313.82] because of that, -[3314.18 --> 3315.42] God exalted him -[3315.42 --> 3316.64] to the highest place. -[3317.36 --> 3318.92] The glory of the cross -[3318.92 --> 3320.34] is the road -[3320.34 --> 3321.74] to the glory of the crown. -[3322.54 --> 3324.88] The cross precedes the crown. -[3325.02 --> 3326.12] There is no resurrection -[3326.12 --> 3327.26] without the cross. -[3327.40 --> 3328.62] There is no exaltation -[3328.62 --> 3329.50] without the cross. -[3329.62 --> 3331.36] There is no seated at the right hand -[3331.36 --> 3332.44] of God the Father Almighty -[3332.44 --> 3333.54] without the cross. -[3333.66 --> 3335.84] There is no celestial city come down -[3335.84 --> 3337.14] without the cross. -[3337.14 --> 3338.76] The glory of the cross -[3338.76 --> 3340.92] precedes the glory of the crown. -[3342.06 --> 3344.10] And you shouldn't be surprised -[3344.10 --> 3346.26] that it's the same way for you. -[3349.30 --> 3349.92] And yeah, -[3350.22 --> 3352.02] real talk for a moment, right? -[3352.26 --> 3353.38] Most of us -[3353.38 --> 3355.08] want the glory of the crown -[3355.08 --> 3357.88] without the cross. -[3359.52 --> 3360.04] Right? -[3360.04 --> 3365.20] We want the whole rich reward -[3365.20 --> 3367.38] without counting the cost. -[3368.12 --> 3370.30] We want the transformed life -[3370.30 --> 3371.62] of abundance and prosperity -[3371.62 --> 3372.92] without the death -[3372.92 --> 3375.12] that must come first. -[3376.34 --> 3377.90] But the glory of the cross -[3377.90 --> 3378.88] is what brings -[3378.88 --> 3380.00] the glory of the crown. -[3381.56 --> 3382.76] Let me be really clear -[3382.76 --> 3383.48] about this, right? -[3383.60 --> 3384.42] As Christians, -[3384.68 --> 3387.12] we are living in hope. -[3387.26 --> 3388.98] We have a living hope. -[3388.98 --> 3389.72] As Christians, -[3389.88 --> 3390.74] there is a peace -[3390.74 --> 3391.76] that surpasses -[3391.76 --> 3392.96] all understanding. -[3393.36 --> 3393.88] As Christians, -[3394.02 --> 3395.16] we know and believe -[3395.16 --> 3396.28] that there is a blessing -[3396.28 --> 3397.90] that is waiting for you -[3397.90 --> 3398.82] from God. -[3399.26 --> 3399.62] But, -[3400.66 --> 3401.72] it is not -[3401.72 --> 3403.84] your best life now. -[3405.22 --> 3405.98] It is not -[3405.98 --> 3408.54] the word of faith movement, -[3408.80 --> 3410.58] the name it and claim it idea -[3410.58 --> 3412.12] of the new prosperity gospel. -[3412.56 --> 3413.36] It is not -[3413.36 --> 3414.12] the idea -[3414.12 --> 3414.76] that Jesus -[3414.76 --> 3416.20] just wants to reveal -[3416.20 --> 3417.06] what's been hiding -[3417.06 --> 3417.86] inside of you -[3417.86 --> 3418.74] all along. -[3418.98 --> 3421.06] the crown -[3421.06 --> 3422.14] comes -[3422.14 --> 3423.72] at the cross -[3423.72 --> 3425.34] and with the cross. -[3426.30 --> 3427.32] If you are -[3427.32 --> 3428.12] insulted -[3428.12 --> 3429.20] because of the name -[3429.20 --> 3429.66] of Christ, -[3429.82 --> 3430.86] you are blessed -[3430.86 --> 3431.86] for the spirit -[3431.86 --> 3432.40] of glory -[3432.40 --> 3433.02] and of God -[3433.02 --> 3434.22] rests on you. -[3434.38 --> 3435.66] The same spirit -[3435.66 --> 3436.46] of glory -[3436.46 --> 3437.14] and of God -[3437.14 --> 3437.78] who descended -[3437.78 --> 3438.54] on Jesus -[3438.54 --> 3439.70] when he condescended -[3439.70 --> 3440.48] down to us -[3440.48 --> 3441.70] and went to the cross -[3441.70 --> 3442.86] is now also -[3442.86 --> 3444.16] descended on you -[3444.16 --> 3445.78] and in you. -[3445.78 --> 3449.42] the apostles -[3449.42 --> 3451.38] in the early church -[3451.38 --> 3453.10] they got this. -[3453.86 --> 3454.82] There is a story -[3454.82 --> 3456.78] in the book of Acts -[3456.78 --> 3457.94] written by Luke -[3457.94 --> 3459.28] accounting for the -[3459.28 --> 3460.00] development -[3460.00 --> 3460.66] and the rise -[3460.66 --> 3461.40] of the early church -[3461.40 --> 3462.64] and in Acts 5 -[3462.64 --> 3463.70] the apostles -[3463.70 --> 3465.18] of Jesus -[3465.18 --> 3465.92] now filled -[3465.92 --> 3466.74] with the Holy Spirit -[3466.74 --> 3467.32] are called -[3467.32 --> 3467.92] to face -[3467.92 --> 3468.86] the Sanhedrin. -[3468.86 --> 3469.90] The Sanhedrin -[3469.90 --> 3470.28] are the -[3470.28 --> 3471.84] the religio-political -[3471.84 --> 3472.96] ruling class -[3472.96 --> 3473.90] in Jerusalem -[3473.90 --> 3476.02] and the apostles -[3476.02 --> 3476.46] come -[3476.46 --> 3477.00] and they are -[3477.00 --> 3477.96] flogged -[3477.96 --> 3478.96] by the rulers -[3478.96 --> 3479.68] and they are ordered -[3479.68 --> 3480.36] not to preach -[3480.36 --> 3481.16] the name of Jesus -[3481.16 --> 3482.06] and then Luke -[3482.06 --> 3483.08] writes in Acts 5 -[3483.08 --> 3483.52] 41 -[3483.52 --> 3484.62] the apostles -[3484.62 --> 3486.10] left the Sanhedrin -[3486.10 --> 3487.54] rejoicing -[3487.54 --> 3489.18] because they had -[3489.18 --> 3489.64] been counted -[3489.64 --> 3490.26] worthy -[3490.26 --> 3491.48] of suffering -[3491.48 --> 3492.48] disgrace -[3492.48 --> 3493.78] for the name. -[3496.00 --> 3496.60] Preaching -[3496.60 --> 3497.56] the full gospel -[3497.56 --> 3498.62] of Jesus -[3498.62 --> 3499.82] the substitutionary -[3499.82 --> 3500.24] atonement -[3500.24 --> 3501.14] and the victory -[3501.14 --> 3501.58] of God -[3501.58 --> 3502.36] the cross -[3502.36 --> 3503.26] and the crown -[3503.26 --> 3504.72] will always be -[3504.72 --> 3505.36] folly -[3505.36 --> 3506.60] and a stumbling block -[3506.60 --> 3507.26] to those who -[3507.26 --> 3508.18] don't believe -[3508.18 --> 3509.14] but to those -[3509.14 --> 3510.64] who are being saved -[3510.64 --> 3511.50] it is the power -[3511.50 --> 3512.02] of God -[3512.02 --> 3512.82] and the wisdom -[3512.82 --> 3513.32] of God. -[3514.38 --> 3515.78] Paul says in Romans -[3515.78 --> 3516.28] 1 -[3516.28 --> 3517.66] I am not ashamed -[3517.66 --> 3518.46] of the gospel -[3518.46 --> 3519.70] because it is the power -[3519.70 --> 3521.12] of God unto salvation -[3521.12 --> 3522.48] for all who believe. -[3523.92 --> 3525.18] Instead of shame -[3525.18 --> 3525.90] in the cross -[3525.90 --> 3526.78] we can rejoice -[3526.78 --> 3527.96] in suffering. -[3528.80 --> 3529.52] Listen again -[3529.52 --> 3531.12] to what the scriptures say. -[3532.40 --> 3533.02] We boast -[3533.02 --> 3534.02] in the hope -[3534.02 --> 3535.28] of the glory of God. -[3535.38 --> 3536.18] That's the crown -[3536.18 --> 3537.60] not only so -[3537.60 --> 3538.70] but we also glory -[3538.70 --> 3539.76] in our sufferings -[3539.76 --> 3540.52] because we know -[3540.52 --> 3541.18] that suffering -[3541.18 --> 3542.32] produces perseverance -[3542.32 --> 3543.16] perseverance -[3543.16 --> 3543.82] character -[3543.82 --> 3544.68] and character -[3544.68 --> 3545.38] hope. -[3546.66 --> 3547.84] That's the cross. -[3548.98 --> 3550.48] The spirit himself -[3550.48 --> 3552.24] testifies with our spirits -[3552.24 --> 3553.54] that we are children -[3553.54 --> 3554.12] of God -[3554.12 --> 3555.56] and now if we are children -[3555.56 --> 3556.74] then we are heirs. -[3556.90 --> 3557.74] Heirs of God -[3557.74 --> 3558.58] and co-heirs -[3558.58 --> 3559.56] with Christ. -[3560.02 --> 3560.66] Now that is one -[3560.66 --> 3561.84] of my favorite lines -[3561.84 --> 3562.94] in all of scripture. -[3563.30 --> 3564.12] We are children. -[3564.36 --> 3565.06] If we are children -[3565.06 --> 3565.88] then we are heirs. -[3566.08 --> 3566.86] Heirs of God -[3566.86 --> 3568.16] and co-heirs with Christ. -[3568.16 --> 3569.26] But even I -[3569.26 --> 3571.22] forget the second part -[3571.22 --> 3571.72] of that line. -[3573.16 --> 3573.92] If indeed -[3573.92 --> 3576.50] we share in his sufferings -[3576.50 --> 3579.10] in order that we may also -[3579.10 --> 3580.04] share in his glory. -[3582.04 --> 3582.72] Children -[3582.72 --> 3585.40] who share in the cross -[3585.40 --> 3587.06] will share in the crown. -[3587.06 --> 3591.60] But beloved -[3591.60 --> 3593.56] be wary -[3593.56 --> 3594.76] of so-called -[3594.76 --> 3595.54] Bible teachers -[3595.54 --> 3597.30] who will tell you -[3597.30 --> 3598.28] that you can have -[3598.28 --> 3598.96] the crown -[3598.96 --> 3600.92] without the cross. -[3602.40 --> 3604.16] Do not be surprised -[3604.16 --> 3605.70] that this test -[3605.70 --> 3607.02] has come upon you. -[3608.62 --> 3609.64] Jesus lived -[3609.64 --> 3610.06] the life -[3610.06 --> 3610.76] I should have lived -[3610.76 --> 3611.66] and died the death -[3611.66 --> 3612.60] that I deserved -[3612.60 --> 3613.32] and by grace -[3613.32 --> 3614.12] through faith -[3614.12 --> 3615.60] as the free gift -[3615.60 --> 3616.14] of God -[3616.14 --> 3617.22] he grants me -[3617.22 --> 3618.42] the righteousness -[3618.42 --> 3619.36] of Jesus -[3619.36 --> 3621.78] and by the free gift -[3621.78 --> 3622.40] of grace -[3622.40 --> 3623.78] he declares you -[3623.78 --> 3624.72] a righteous -[3624.72 --> 3626.52] child of God. -[3626.86 --> 3627.72] He names you -[3627.72 --> 3628.40] a son -[3628.40 --> 3629.46] and a daughter. -[3630.38 --> 3631.06] He calls you -[3631.06 --> 3631.78] his own -[3631.78 --> 3634.40] and that grace -[3634.40 --> 3637.12] oh that amazing -[3637.12 --> 3638.16] grace -[3638.16 --> 3639.40] is free -[3639.40 --> 3640.50] to you. -[3642.24 --> 3643.60] But make no mistake -[3643.60 --> 3644.44] it's not cheap. -[3645.60 --> 3646.64] That grace -[3646.64 --> 3647.48] cost Jesus -[3647.48 --> 3648.28] everything. -[3650.54 --> 3651.58] That grace -[3651.58 --> 3653.90] is what led -[3653.90 --> 3654.90] Jesus to the cross. -[3655.98 --> 3656.90] And now -[3656.90 --> 3657.42] you -[3657.42 --> 3659.12] don't -[3659.12 --> 3659.96] cheapen -[3659.96 --> 3661.08] the cross -[3661.08 --> 3662.22] because you -[3662.22 --> 3663.00] aren't willing -[3663.00 --> 3663.84] as a disciple -[3663.84 --> 3665.06] to count the cost. -[3666.02 --> 3666.62] The grace -[3666.62 --> 3667.10] of God -[3667.10 --> 3667.94] is absolutely -[3667.94 --> 3668.74] and utterly -[3668.74 --> 3669.60] free. -[3671.14 --> 3672.80] But being a Christian -[3672.80 --> 3674.06] may cost you -[3674.06 --> 3674.62] your life. -[3676.10 --> 3676.56] Now that's not -[3676.56 --> 3677.10] a reality -[3677.10 --> 3678.04] that many of us -[3678.04 --> 3678.96] are familiar with. -[3680.38 --> 3681.34] But being a Christian -[3681.34 --> 3681.94] may cost you -[3681.94 --> 3682.42] your job. -[3683.94 --> 3684.96] I know some of you -[3684.96 --> 3685.36] are familiar -[3685.36 --> 3686.08] with that reality. -[3687.44 --> 3688.02] Being a Christian -[3688.02 --> 3688.64] may cost you -[3688.64 --> 3689.42] your popularity. -[3689.98 --> 3690.50] It may cost you -[3690.50 --> 3690.96] your power. -[3691.28 --> 3691.86] It may cost you -[3691.86 --> 3692.42] your status. -[3692.68 --> 3693.42] It may cost you -[3693.42 --> 3694.16] your vacation. -[3696.16 --> 3696.86] Being a Christian -[3696.86 --> 3698.30] will cost you -[3698.30 --> 3699.78] whatever crown -[3699.78 --> 3701.00] of fading glory -[3701.00 --> 3702.04] you are choosing -[3702.04 --> 3703.72] instead of Jesus. -[3704.72 --> 3705.92] Whatever prosperity -[3705.92 --> 3706.96] you are pursuing -[3706.96 --> 3707.96] in place of the -[3707.96 --> 3709.02] imperishable crown -[3709.02 --> 3709.90] of glory -[3709.90 --> 3711.04] Jesus provides. -[3715.68 --> 3716.70] And whatever -[3716.70 --> 3717.90] it costs you -[3717.90 --> 3719.44] whether it is -[3719.44 --> 3719.92] your life -[3719.92 --> 3720.76] your job -[3720.76 --> 3721.36] your status -[3721.36 --> 3722.12] your power -[3722.12 --> 3722.64] even if it's -[3722.64 --> 3723.52] your vacation -[3723.52 --> 3724.86] whatever it costs -[3724.86 --> 3725.24] you -[3725.24 --> 3726.66] it -[3726.66 --> 3727.80] is -[3727.80 --> 3729.04] worth it. -[3729.04 --> 3730.88] right that crown -[3730.88 --> 3732.58] that future reality -[3732.58 --> 3733.74] lived with God -[3733.74 --> 3734.26] in Jesus -[3734.26 --> 3735.28] face to face -[3735.28 --> 3736.20] is really -[3736.20 --> 3736.90] truly -[3736.90 --> 3737.94] eternally -[3737.94 --> 3738.96] worth it. -[3740.72 --> 3741.90] The cross -[3741.90 --> 3743.22] and the crown -[3743.22 --> 3745.16] they come together -[3745.16 --> 3745.92] in the life -[3745.92 --> 3746.34] death -[3746.34 --> 3746.98] resurrection -[3746.98 --> 3747.92] and exaltation -[3747.92 --> 3749.06] of Jesus -[3749.06 --> 3750.52] and do not be -[3750.52 --> 3751.14] surprised -[3751.14 --> 3752.84] when it is so -[3752.84 --> 3753.54] for you -[3753.54 --> 3754.54] too. -[3754.54 --> 3757.52] if you are -[3757.52 --> 3757.98] insulted -[3757.98 --> 3758.62] because of the -[3758.62 --> 3759.24] name of Christ -[3759.24 --> 3760.14] you are -[3760.14 --> 3760.84] blessed. -[3761.02 --> 3761.48] Do you believe -[3761.48 --> 3762.30] that this morning? -[3763.02 --> 3764.18] If you suffer -[3764.18 --> 3765.14] as a Christian -[3765.14 --> 3766.32] do not be ashamed -[3766.32 --> 3767.68] but praise God -[3767.68 --> 3768.38] that you bear -[3768.38 --> 3768.80] that name. -[3768.90 --> 3769.68] Can you do that -[3769.68 --> 3770.64] this morning? -[3772.68 --> 3773.20] Remember -[3773.20 --> 3774.14] the very words -[3774.14 --> 3774.68] of Jesus -[3774.68 --> 3775.78] Jesus who says -[3775.78 --> 3777.20] blessed are you -[3777.20 --> 3777.96] when people -[3777.96 --> 3778.84] insult you -[3778.84 --> 3779.92] and persecute you -[3779.92 --> 3780.62] and falsely say -[3780.62 --> 3781.50] all kinds of evil -[3781.50 --> 3781.98] against you -[3781.98 --> 3782.60] because of me -[3782.60 --> 3784.16] rejoice and be glad -[3784.16 --> 3785.00] because great -[3785.00 --> 3786.22] is your reward -[3786.22 --> 3786.94] in heaven -[3786.94 --> 3787.52] the cross -[3787.52 --> 3788.34] and the crown -[3788.34 --> 3788.70] again -[3788.70 --> 3790.12] for in the same way -[3790.12 --> 3791.00] they persecuted -[3791.00 --> 3791.70] the prophets -[3791.70 --> 3792.92] who were before you. -[3793.52 --> 3794.74] The glory of the cross -[3794.74 --> 3795.72] and the glory -[3795.72 --> 3796.40] of the crown -[3796.40 --> 3798.66] in that order. -[3799.70 --> 3800.38] That -[3800.38 --> 3801.90] is the right -[3801.90 --> 3803.10] struggle. -[3804.30 --> 3804.84] Don't settle -[3804.84 --> 3806.60] for a lesser crown -[3806.60 --> 3807.20] because -[3807.20 --> 3808.44] you are ashamed -[3808.44 --> 3809.16] of the cross. -[3810.16 --> 3810.92] Don't settle -[3810.92 --> 3811.92] for a lesser crown -[3811.92 --> 3812.30] because -[3812.30 --> 3813.74] you are afraid -[3813.74 --> 3814.96] of the cross. -[3815.22 --> 3816.12] Don't be ashamed -[3816.12 --> 3816.80] of the gospel -[3816.80 --> 3818.06] but declare it -[3818.06 --> 3820.40] and if you suffer -[3820.40 --> 3822.04] or maybe better -[3822.04 --> 3822.80] when -[3822.80 --> 3824.32] you suffer -[3824.32 --> 3826.64] know this -[3826.64 --> 3827.44] that we -[3827.44 --> 3828.32] suffer -[3828.32 --> 3829.64] with you. -[3830.72 --> 3831.46] The trial -[3831.46 --> 3832.36] and the test -[3832.36 --> 3833.66] isn't for you -[3833.66 --> 3834.26] alone -[3834.26 --> 3835.44] because you are -[3835.44 --> 3836.16] not alone. -[3837.78 --> 3838.54] Not only -[3838.54 --> 3839.66] does the spirit -[3839.66 --> 3840.38] of the glory -[3840.38 --> 3840.82] of God -[3840.82 --> 3841.82] rest on you -[3841.82 --> 3843.50] and go -[3843.50 --> 3844.30] in you -[3844.30 --> 3845.40] and with you -[3845.40 --> 3846.34] but we -[3846.34 --> 3847.84] go -[3847.84 --> 3849.20] with you. -[3849.30 --> 3849.80] We all -[3849.80 --> 3850.50] go -[3850.50 --> 3851.44] together -[3851.44 --> 3854.32] and we all -[3854.32 --> 3855.08] Paul writes -[3855.08 --> 3856.34] with unveiled -[3856.34 --> 3856.86] face -[3856.86 --> 3857.96] beholding the glory -[3857.96 --> 3858.48] of the Lord -[3858.48 --> 3859.58] are being transformed -[3859.58 --> 3861.12] into the same image -[3861.12 --> 3861.98] from one degree -[3861.98 --> 3862.66] of glory -[3862.66 --> 3863.74] to another -[3863.74 --> 3864.60] for this -[3864.60 --> 3865.78] comes from the Lord -[3865.78 --> 3866.76] who is -[3866.76 --> 3867.56] the spirit. -[3867.56 --> 3870.00] Do not be surprised -[3870.00 --> 3871.84] when your crown -[3871.84 --> 3872.90] comes through -[3872.90 --> 3873.72] a cross. -[3875.00 --> 3875.54] Instead -[3875.54 --> 3877.32] surprise them -[3877.32 --> 3878.88] by rejoicing -[3878.88 --> 3880.16] in that struggle -[3880.16 --> 3882.00] in the right struggle. -[3882.00 --> 3888.98] if you suffer -[3888.98 --> 3890.02] Peter writes -[3890.02 --> 3892.10] it should not be -[3892.10 --> 3892.72] as a murderer -[3892.72 --> 3893.84] or a thief -[3893.84 --> 3895.10] or any kind -[3895.10 --> 3895.92] of criminal -[3895.92 --> 3897.78] or even -[3897.78 --> 3899.54] as a meddler. -[3900.70 --> 3901.16] I want to be -[3901.16 --> 3901.82] really clear -[3901.82 --> 3902.36] with us -[3902.36 --> 3902.92] this morning -[3902.92 --> 3903.28] because -[3903.28 --> 3904.30] there's a lot -[3904.30 --> 3904.90] of talk -[3904.90 --> 3905.36] happening -[3905.36 --> 3906.08] right now -[3906.08 --> 3907.12] about the struggle -[3907.12 --> 3908.12] that Christians -[3908.12 --> 3908.80] are facing. -[3909.60 --> 3910.00] There's a lot -[3910.00 --> 3910.40] of talk -[3910.40 --> 3911.34] about rights -[3911.34 --> 3912.20] and freedoms -[3912.20 --> 3912.94] my rights -[3912.94 --> 3913.76] and your freedoms -[3913.76 --> 3914.96] and the like -[3914.96 --> 3915.56] and there's a lot -[3915.56 --> 3916.04] of talk -[3916.04 --> 3917.22] about the infringement -[3917.22 --> 3919.14] of those rights. -[3922.32 --> 3923.02] That -[3923.02 --> 3924.70] is not -[3924.70 --> 3926.24] the same -[3926.24 --> 3927.54] as persecution. -[3933.18 --> 3934.10] But even -[3934.10 --> 3934.88] if it was -[3934.88 --> 3937.00] there's so much -[3937.00 --> 3937.34] more. -[3938.30 --> 3939.06] That Greek -[3939.06 --> 3939.46] word -[3939.46 --> 3940.34] meddler -[3940.34 --> 3940.74] there -[3940.74 --> 3940.96] that -[3940.96 --> 3941.40] if you -[3941.40 --> 3941.52] are -[3941.52 --> 3942.00] insulted -[3942.00 --> 3942.44] if you -[3942.44 --> 3942.80] suffer -[3942.80 --> 3942.94] it -[3942.94 --> 3943.06] should -[3943.06 --> 3943.22] not -[3943.22 --> 3943.32] be -[3943.32 --> 3943.44] as -[3943.44 --> 3943.56] a -[3943.56 --> 3943.78] murderer -[3943.78 --> 3944.10] okay -[3944.10 --> 3944.72] we get that -[3944.72 --> 3945.18] should not be -[3945.18 --> 3945.64] as a thief -[3945.64 --> 3946.02] okay -[3946.02 --> 3946.82] yeah we get -[3946.82 --> 3947.10] that -[3947.10 --> 3947.76] we're not -[3947.76 --> 3948.58] going to steal -[3948.58 --> 3949.12] or kill -[3949.12 --> 3949.56] sure -[3949.56 --> 3951.20] or be any -[3951.20 --> 3951.66] other kind -[3951.66 --> 3952.10] of criminal -[3952.10 --> 3953.52] Lord willing -[3953.52 --> 3954.98] or even -[3954.98 --> 3956.22] as a meddler. -[3957.90 --> 3958.70] Now that word -[3958.70 --> 3959.30] meddler -[3959.30 --> 3959.90] is not really -[3959.90 --> 3960.92] common to us -[3960.92 --> 3962.26] in English -[3962.26 --> 3963.70] the Greek word -[3963.70 --> 3965.42] actually means -[3965.42 --> 3965.74] like -[3965.74 --> 3966.92] busy body -[3966.92 --> 3968.84] right -[3968.84 --> 3969.76] involving -[3969.76 --> 3970.46] yourself -[3970.46 --> 3970.94] in the -[3970.94 --> 3971.36] affairs -[3971.36 --> 3972.18] of others -[3972.18 --> 3973.54] without -[3973.54 --> 3974.26] expertise -[3974.26 --> 3975.02] or warrant -[3975.02 --> 3977.58] that's the -[3977.58 --> 3978.00] definition -[3978.00 --> 3978.58] of meddler -[3978.58 --> 3984.70] that -[3984.70 --> 3986.68] is common -[3986.68 --> 3987.78] in the world -[3987.78 --> 3988.24] right now -[3988.24 --> 3990.84] and we -[3990.84 --> 3991.42] are not -[3991.42 --> 3991.76] exempt -[3991.76 --> 3992.30] from that -[3992.30 --> 3992.74] charge -[3992.74 --> 3993.52] involving -[3993.52 --> 3993.92] yourselves -[3993.92 --> 3994.16] in the -[3994.16 --> 3994.42] affairs -[3994.42 --> 3994.82] of others -[3994.82 --> 3995.10] without -[3995.10 --> 3995.74] expertise -[3995.74 --> 3996.98] or warrant -[3996.98 --> 3999.14] if you -[3999.14 --> 3999.74] suffer -[3999.74 --> 4001.40] don't suffer -[4001.40 --> 4001.76] for being -[4001.76 --> 4002.26] a meddler -[4002.26 --> 4003.94] suffer -[4003.94 --> 4004.66] for declaring -[4004.66 --> 4005.30] the gospel -[4005.30 --> 4007.18] if we're -[4007.18 --> 4007.40] going to -[4007.40 --> 4007.76] entertain -[4007.76 --> 4008.32] trials -[4008.32 --> 4008.94] and tests -[4008.94 --> 4009.52] and be -[4009.52 --> 4009.84] able to -[4009.84 --> 4010.28] rejoice -[4010.28 --> 4010.96] in the -[4010.96 --> 4011.16] midst -[4011.16 --> 4011.52] of them -[4011.52 --> 4011.96] let it -[4011.96 --> 4012.30] not be -[4012.30 --> 4012.60] because -[4012.60 --> 4012.84] we're -[4012.84 --> 4013.46] crying -[4013.46 --> 4013.98] about -[4013.98 --> 4014.54] rights -[4014.54 --> 4014.90] that may -[4014.90 --> 4015.24] have been -[4015.24 --> 4015.64] mitigated -[4015.64 --> 4016.06] or taken -[4016.06 --> 4016.38] away -[4016.38 --> 4016.86] let it -[4016.86 --> 4016.98] be -[4016.98 --> 4017.34] because -[4017.34 --> 4017.88] we -[4017.88 --> 4018.14] are -[4018.14 --> 4018.80] standing -[4018.80 --> 4019.14] with -[4019.14 --> 4019.80] Jesus -[4019.80 --> 4026.72] now I -[4026.72 --> 4026.86] do -[4026.86 --> 4027.44] believe -[4027.44 --> 4028.90] that a -[4028.90 --> 4029.22] time is -[4029.22 --> 4029.52] coming -[4029.52 --> 4030.02] and maybe -[4030.02 --> 4030.68] has already -[4030.68 --> 4031.04] come -[4031.04 --> 4031.30] when -[4031.30 --> 4032.84] real -[4032.84 --> 4033.82] both -[4033.82 --> 4034.50] soft -[4034.50 --> 4035.00] and -[4035.00 --> 4036.32] actual -[4036.32 --> 4037.10] persecution -[4037.10 --> 4038.30] will happen -[4038.30 --> 4039.16] for Christians -[4039.16 --> 4039.92] in the world -[4039.92 --> 4040.20] today -[4040.20 --> 4041.04] and I do -[4041.04 --> 4041.40] believe -[4041.40 --> 4041.72] that there -[4041.72 --> 4042.04] is a -[4042.04 --> 4042.62] generation -[4042.62 --> 4043.70] of Christians -[4043.70 --> 4044.76] rising up -[4044.76 --> 4045.28] right now -[4045.28 --> 4045.72] who will -[4045.72 --> 4046.10] have to -[4046.10 --> 4046.80] face this -[4046.80 --> 4047.26] because -[4047.26 --> 4047.82] the reality -[4047.82 --> 4048.10] is -[4048.10 --> 4048.66] for those -[4048.66 --> 4048.96] of you -[4048.96 --> 4049.44] who are -[4049.44 --> 4050.22] over 50 -[4050.22 --> 4050.88] or especially -[4050.88 --> 4051.30] those of you -[4051.30 --> 4051.52] who are -[4051.52 --> 4052.30] over 60 -[4052.30 --> 4053.84] you will -[4053.84 --> 4054.52] in large -[4054.52 --> 4054.92] part -[4054.92 --> 4055.48] because of -[4055.48 --> 4055.88] your -[4055.88 --> 4057.30] status -[4057.30 --> 4057.94] and relative -[4057.94 --> 4058.56] comfort -[4058.56 --> 4059.06] and your -[4059.06 --> 4059.74] community -[4059.74 --> 4061.00] situatedness -[4061.00 --> 4061.56] you will -[4061.56 --> 4061.92] be able -[4061.92 --> 4062.74] to insulate -[4062.74 --> 4063.24] yourselves -[4063.24 --> 4063.94] from this -[4063.94 --> 4064.56] new cultural -[4064.56 --> 4064.98] norm -[4064.98 --> 4066.92] it's the -[4066.92 --> 4067.60] young people -[4067.60 --> 4068.56] it's the -[4068.56 --> 4069.06] 20s -[4069.06 --> 4069.92] and 30s -[4069.92 --> 4070.30] it's you -[4070.30 --> 4070.94] teenagers -[4070.94 --> 4072.02] right now -[4072.02 --> 4072.52] who are -[4072.52 --> 4073.08] really going -[4073.08 --> 4073.40] to have -[4073.40 --> 4074.02] to endure -[4074.02 --> 4075.06] this test -[4075.06 --> 4076.20] and learn -[4076.20 --> 4076.58] how to -[4076.58 --> 4077.22] stand -[4077.22 --> 4080.10] I want -[4080.10 --> 4080.24] to be -[4080.24 --> 4080.40] really -[4080.40 --> 4080.64] clear -[4080.64 --> 4081.12] I have -[4081.12 --> 4081.66] hope -[4081.66 --> 4083.34] and I -[4083.34 --> 4083.76] have hope -[4083.76 --> 4084.38] not because -[4084.38 --> 4084.72] I know -[4084.72 --> 4085.30] all of you -[4085.30 --> 4085.78] although I -[4085.78 --> 4086.56] know many -[4086.56 --> 4086.94] of you -[4086.94 --> 4087.30] and you -[4087.30 --> 4087.62] give me -[4087.62 --> 4088.12] reason to -[4088.12 --> 4088.68] be excited -[4088.68 --> 4089.44] I have -[4089.44 --> 4089.78] hope -[4089.78 --> 4090.26] because -[4090.26 --> 4091.20] I know -[4091.20 --> 4091.88] Jesus -[4091.88 --> 4093.42] I have -[4093.42 --> 4093.64] hope -[4093.64 --> 4093.98] because -[4093.98 --> 4094.80] the spirit -[4094.80 --> 4095.70] of glory -[4095.70 --> 4096.16] and of -[4096.16 --> 4096.52] God -[4096.52 --> 4097.14] rests -[4097.14 --> 4098.02] on us -[4098.02 --> 4098.34] and it -[4098.34 --> 4098.68] is in -[4098.68 --> 4099.50] him -[4099.50 --> 4100.34] that my -[4100.34 --> 4100.60] hope -[4100.60 --> 4101.14] is found -[4101.14 --> 4101.60] first -[4101.60 --> 4102.46] and always -[4102.46 --> 4102.88] in -[4102.88 --> 4103.64] God -[4103.64 --> 4104.16] and so -[4104.16 --> 4104.98] I believe -[4104.98 --> 4105.58] and I -[4105.58 --> 4105.96] know -[4105.96 --> 4106.56] that God -[4106.56 --> 4107.80] will always -[4107.80 --> 4108.44] allow his -[4108.44 --> 4108.84] church -[4108.84 --> 4109.98] to persevere -[4109.98 --> 4114.64] but I -[4114.64 --> 4115.18] want us -[4115.18 --> 4116.68] not just -[4116.68 --> 4117.62] to have -[4117.62 --> 4118.18] hope -[4118.18 --> 4119.28] in an -[4119.28 --> 4119.68] unseen -[4119.68 --> 4120.20] future -[4120.20 --> 4122.02] but to -[4122.02 --> 4122.60] be -[4122.60 --> 4123.16] that -[4123.16 --> 4123.90] visible -[4123.90 --> 4125.02] hope -[4125.02 --> 4125.78] in the -[4125.78 --> 4126.08] world -[4126.08 --> 4128.44] you -[4128.44 --> 4129.30] can be -[4129.30 --> 4129.62] that -[4129.62 --> 4130.34] generation -[4130.34 --> 4131.74] that rises -[4131.74 --> 4132.40] up -[4132.40 --> 4133.48] as the -[4133.48 --> 4133.98] song says -[4133.98 --> 4135.24] with selfless -[4135.24 --> 4136.18] faith -[4136.18 --> 4138.44] we can -[4138.44 --> 4138.76] be -[4138.76 --> 4139.02] that -[4139.02 --> 4139.74] generation -[4139.74 --> 4140.46] of -[4140.46 --> 4140.88] Christian -[4140.88 --> 4141.18] that -[4141.18 --> 4141.90] declares -[4141.90 --> 4142.90] the gospel -[4142.90 --> 4143.50] of Jesus -[4143.50 --> 4144.70] and rejoices -[4144.70 --> 4145.76] in our -[4145.76 --> 4146.62] suffering -[4146.62 --> 4147.12] and our -[4147.12 --> 4147.54] trials -[4147.54 --> 4148.08] and our -[4148.08 --> 4148.48] testing -[4148.48 --> 4149.58] because we -[4149.58 --> 4150.46] know -[4150.46 --> 4152.62] that when -[4152.62 --> 4153.04] we face -[4153.04 --> 4154.08] trials of -[4154.08 --> 4154.88] any -[4154.88 --> 4155.52] kind -[4155.52 --> 4155.98] it is -[4155.98 --> 4156.52] because -[4156.52 --> 4157.20] we -[4157.20 --> 4157.84] look -[4157.84 --> 4158.86] like -[4158.86 --> 4160.14] Jesus -[4160.14 --> 4160.36] Jesus -[4160.36 --> 4163.22] and so -[4163.22 --> 4163.70] generation -[4163.70 --> 4163.98] of -[4163.98 --> 4164.44] Christians -[4164.44 --> 4165.54] go -[4165.54 --> 4166.36] from this -[4166.36 --> 4166.82] place -[4166.82 --> 4167.48] looking -[4167.48 --> 4168.36] like -[4168.36 --> 4169.36] Jesus -[4169.36 --> 4171.38] and do -[4171.38 --> 4171.66] not be -[4171.66 --> 4172.32] surprised -[4172.32 --> 4174.18] but instead -[4174.18 --> 4176.30] be encouraged -[4176.30 --> 4177.62] not be -[4177.62 --> 4178.10] afraid -[4178.10 --> 4179.68] but instead -[4179.68 --> 4181.20] rejoice -[4181.20 --> 4184.04] do not -[4184.04 --> 4184.48] worry -[4184.48 --> 4186.06] but instead -[4186.06 --> 4187.54] boldly -[4187.54 --> 4188.38] proclaim -[4188.38 --> 4189.68] the kingdom -[4189.68 --> 4190.60] come -[4190.60 --> 4191.26] and the -[4191.26 --> 4191.60] kingdom -[4191.60 --> 4192.66] coming -[4192.66 --> 4195.14] there is -[4195.14 --> 4195.64] glory -[4195.64 --> 4196.14] in the -[4196.14 --> 4196.62] cross -[4196.62 --> 4198.30] and there -[4198.30 --> 4198.54] will be -[4198.54 --> 4198.98] glory -[4198.98 --> 4200.24] in the -[4200.24 --> 4200.60] crown -[4200.60 --> 4202.60] fill your -[4202.60 --> 4203.14] eyes -[4203.14 --> 4204.62] with God's -[4204.62 --> 4205.40] glory -[4205.40 --> 4206.58] as we -[4206.58 --> 4206.96] go -[4206.96 --> 4207.82] today -[4207.82 --> 4208.66] amen -[4208.66 --> 4210.30] amen -[4210.30 --> 4211.00] let's pray -[4211.00 --> 4211.38] together -[4211.38 --> 4216.88] lord our -[4216.88 --> 4217.06] god -[4217.06 --> 4218.20] fill us -[4218.20 --> 4218.68] to -[4218.68 --> 4219.68] overflowing -[4219.68 --> 4220.60] with your -[4220.60 --> 4221.02] love -[4221.02 --> 4222.86] fill us -[4222.86 --> 4223.28] to -[4223.28 --> 4223.98] overflow -[4223.98 --> 4224.36] in -[4224.36 --> 4225.22] with your -[4225.22 --> 4225.98] majesty -[4225.98 --> 4226.86] with an -[4226.86 --> 4227.34] experience -[4227.34 --> 4228.18] of your -[4228.18 --> 4228.76] glory -[4228.76 --> 4229.22] so that -[4229.22 --> 4229.48] we -[4229.48 --> 4230.26] with -[4230.26 --> 4231.08] unveiled -[4231.08 --> 4231.58] faces -[4231.58 --> 4231.96] can -[4231.96 --> 4232.60] radiate -[4232.60 --> 4233.12] the image -[4233.12 --> 4233.50] of Jesus -[4233.50 --> 4233.98] Christ -[4233.98 --> 4234.86] to the -[4234.86 --> 4235.18] world -[4235.18 --> 4237.96] send us -[4237.96 --> 4238.40] out -[4238.40 --> 4239.48] in the -[4239.48 --> 4239.78] glory -[4239.78 --> 4240.08] of the -[4240.08 --> 4240.56] cross -[4240.56 --> 4241.34] and in -[4241.34 --> 4241.72] the glory -[4241.72 --> 4242.02] of the -[4242.02 --> 4242.38] crown -[4242.38 --> 4243.56] to be -[4243.56 --> 4244.26] those -[4244.26 --> 4245.16] declaring -[4245.16 --> 4246.50] people -[4246.50 --> 4247.82] in -[4247.82 --> 4248.26] Christ -[4248.26 --> 4248.88] Jesus -[4248.88 --> 4249.84] we pray -[4249.84 --> 4251.74] amen -[4251.74 --> 4252.66] let's -[4252.66 --> 4255.08] name -[4255.08 --> 4257.42] to -[4258.08 --> 4264.72] hear -[4264.72 --> 4290.32] When I fear my faith will fail, -[4290.32 --> 4294.76] Christ will hold me fast. -[4294.98 --> 4298.68] When the tempter would prevail, -[4300.08 --> 4303.40] He will hold me fast. -[4303.82 --> 4308.20] I could never keep my hold -[4308.20 --> 4312.16] through life's fearful path, -[4312.50 --> 4316.92] for my love is soft and cold. -[4316.92 --> 4321.32] He must hold me fast. -[4322.48 --> 4326.92] He will hold me fast. -[4327.26 --> 4330.78] He will hold me fast. -[4331.08 --> 4335.10] For my Savior loves me so. -[4335.86 --> 4338.92] He will hold me fast. -[4338.92 --> 4340.10] He will hold me fast. -[4349.10 --> 4352.92] Those He saves are His delight, -[4354.22 --> 4356.92] Christ will hold me fast. -[4356.92 --> 4362.40] Precious in His holy sight, -[4362.48 --> 4366.16] He will hold me fast. -[4366.70 --> 4371.00] He'll not let my soul be lost. -[4371.24 --> 4375.02] His promises shall last. -[4375.48 --> 4379.82] Bought by Him at such a cost, -[4380.32 --> 4383.92] He will hold me fast. -[4383.92 --> 4388.92] He will hold me fast. -[4389.48 --> 4392.92] He will hold me fast. -[4392.92 --> 4397.96] For my Savior loves me so. -[4398.66 --> 4402.86] He will hold me fast. -[4402.86 --> 4417.06] For my life He bled and died, -[4417.06 --> 4421.02] Christ will hold me fast. -[4421.02 --> 4424.74] Justice has been satisfied, -[4426.60 --> 4429.80] He will hold me fast. -[4429.80 --> 4435.06] Raised with Him to endless life. -[4435.06 --> 4439.22] He will hold me fast. -[4439.22 --> 4443.78] Till our faith is turned to sight, -[4444.12 --> 4449.74] He will come at last. -[4449.74 --> 4453.92] He will hold me fast. -[4453.92 --> 4457.90] He will hold me fast. -[4457.90 --> 4462.32] For my Savior loves me so. -[4462.80 --> 4466.58] He will hold me fast. -[4466.58 --> 4470.86] He will hold me fast. -[4471.18 --> 4474.76] He will hold me fast. -[4475.28 --> 4479.62] For my Savior loves me so. -[4480.06 --> 4484.58] He will hold me fast. -[4484.58 --> 4511.44] as we go we go as those called to rejoice in testing because god himself goes with us -[4511.44 --> 4519.56] we go without fear for some of us right now that's more of a hope and a promise -[4519.56 --> 4526.08] for some of us that's a lived reality for some of us that doesn't make any sense -[4526.08 --> 4531.54] that doesn't make sense to you or if you have questions about life and faith in jesus i want -[4531.54 --> 4536.48] to encourage you to to reach out to me or to pastor kevin or to anyone else really around who's -[4536.48 --> 4542.98] wearing a name tag and connect with them and talk to them following our service together this morning -[4542.98 --> 4554.28] as you go receive the blessing of our god may god go before you to lead you may god go behind you -[4554.28 --> 4560.98] to guard you may god go beneath you to support you and may god go beside you to befriend you -[4560.98 --> 4569.56] do not be afraid let the blessing of god come upon you today do not be afraid but go -[4569.56 --> 4577.78] in peace to love and serve the lord everyone said amen -[4577.78 --> 4589.74] do -[4589.74 --> 4611.74] living for jesus -[4611.74 --> 4617.74] the life that -[4635.58 --> 4637.74] for me -[4641.74 --> 4653.80] myself to you for you in your atonement did give yourself for me I owe no other -[4653.80 --> 4667.30] master my heart shall be your floor my life I give henceforth to live for you alone -[4667.30 --> 4683.86] living for Jesus who died in my place bearing on Calvary my sin and disgrace such love -[4683.86 --> 4696.28] constraints me to answer his call follow his leading and give him my all -[4696.28 --> 4710.28] oh Jesus Lord and Savior I give myself to thee for thou in thy atonement did give myself for me -[4710.28 --> 4726.28] I owe no other master my heart shall be thy throne my life I give henceforth to live oh Christ for me alone -[4726.28 --> 4748.28] living for Jesus wherever I am doing each duty in his holy name willing to suffer affliction or loss -[4748.28 --> 4772.28] oh Jesus Lord and Savior I give myself to thee for thou in thy atonement did give thyself for me -[4772.28 --> 4792.28] I owe no other master my heart shall be thy throne my life I give henceforth to live oh Christ for me alone -[4792.28 --> 4794.28] oh -[4794.28 --> 4798.28] mi -[4798.28 --> 4813.54] the -[4813.54 --> 4842.54] PAPS BUZZER -[4842.54 --> 4872.52] Thank you. -[4872.54 --> 4902.52] Thank you. diff --git a/Faith Without Deeds is Dead (Sermon)_summary.txt b/Faith Without Deeds is Dead (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d6f5177ee07d3b47757e2fb2461fa58c02aab31c..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Faith Without Deeds is Dead (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,40 +0,0 @@ -• Faith vs Deeds -• James 2:14-19 as reference text -• The story of Pi from "The Life of Pi" used to illustrate faith and actions -• Different types of faith: - • Faith that is alone (isolated) - • Faith that works (with deeds) -• Characteristics of a faith that works: - • Changes the person - • Affects reality - • Includes wisdom, steadfastness, slowness to anger, quickness to listen, and actions based on what it hears -• Faith alone is not enough to be considered true faith -• True faith changes a person's behavior and actions -• Good deeds follow from true faith, but they do not earn salvation -• Deeds without faith are worthless and do not save -• James' example of the person who walks by the brother in need illustrates faith without works -• Faith without works is dead and useless -• James affirms that faith alone does not save, but rather it is a gift from God. -• Faith and deeds are intertwined -• Separating faith and deeds results in a dead faith -• Deeds are an expression of true faith -• James uses the example of demons believing in one God to illustrate that mere belief is not enough -• The Jewish concept of monotheism (one God) is referenced -• Demons know God but do not act on their faith -• James commends someone for believing that God is one and encourages them to demonstrate good deeds. -• Faith alone saves, but a saving faith is never isolated from good works. -• Good deeds follow true faith as a result and signifier of its authenticity. -• The Holy Spirit sanctifies through the promise of making us like Christ. -• Jesus' sacrifice on the cross is essential for salvation, and it's a gift of God's undeserved grace. -• Salvation is not earned through human effort or good deeds but by God's sheer grace alone. -• The Bible's catechism encapsulates James' teaching on true faith and its fruit -• True faith is a deep-rooted assurance created in believers by the Holy Spirit through the Gospel -• Those with true faith produce fruits of gratitude, including good deeds -• Good deeds follow faith and are a result of being made like Christ through sanctification -• The Holy Spirit works out salvation in believers to make them more like Christ every day -• Good deeds are done because of God's strength, goodness, faithfulness, and Spirit working in us -• Gratitude and obedience signify true faith -• Members of the church should act like Christ and do good deeds with God's strength -• Prayer for salvation, thanksgiving, and appreciation for God's Word and truth -• Acknowledgment of sinful nature and need for God's grace and love -• Request to be made more like Christ through truer faith and sanctification by the Spirit \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Faith Without Deeds is Dead (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/Faith Without Deeds is Dead (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 270652a722d569ab64d3e4c595064f380bef1f29..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Faith Without Deeds is Dead (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,619 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 3.36] Hey everyone, welcome. -[4.36 --> 6.30] I hope you're having a good Sunday so far. -[7.12 --> 9.38] It's been a while since the last time I did this, -[9.60 --> 13.84] but I remember more people being here the last time I preached. -[15.48 --> 18.86] Anyways, I hope everyone's having a good Sunday, like I said already. -[19.44 --> 22.20] I want to encourage you to bring out your Bibles in any format -[22.20 --> 25.80] and open the word to James 2, 14-19. -[30.00 --> 31.46] Read with me. -[31.46 --> 37.28] What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? -[38.00 --> 39.34] Can such faith save him? -[40.38 --> 43.80] Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. -[44.60 --> 46.68] One of you says to him, Go, I wish you well. -[47.50 --> 51.22] Keep warm and well-fed, but does nothing about his physical needs. -[51.30 --> 52.02] What good is it? -[53.16 --> 57.22] In the same way, faith by itself, if it's not accompanied by actions, is dead. -[57.22 --> 60.70] But someone will say, You have faith, I have deeds. -[61.54 --> 65.02] Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do. -[65.86 --> 67.80] You believe that there is one God good. -[68.42 --> 70.66] Even the demons believe that and shudder. -[70.66 --> 81.60] When I was in school, I read the book, The Life of Pi. -[82.20 --> 84.84] If you haven't read the book, you may have watched the movie, -[84.92 --> 88.34] When Our Church Borrowed the Cloverdale Cinema for a Mexico fundraiser in 2012. -[89.64 --> 92.94] It's a fictional story of a boy from India who's the son of a zookeeper. -[92.94 --> 99.02] On a move from India to Canada, he gets lost at sea due to a storm -[99.02 --> 104.02] and gets stranded on a small rescue boat with a tiger as his only companion. -[104.96 --> 106.46] I highly recommend this book. -[109.20 --> 113.40] But there's a traumatic scene in the book where Pi goes to see the tiger at the zoo alone. -[114.52 --> 116.58] Now to preface, when I say that this scene is traumatic, -[117.38 --> 121.70] I mean that this story presents a very gruesome scene of a tiger killing an animal -[121.70 --> 125.80] and an example of horrible parenting technique that should never be replicated. -[128.32 --> 129.74] But that's not why I'm telling this story. -[129.92 --> 133.26] I'm telling this story because it says something about faith and deeds -[133.26 --> 135.30] in a practical and easy way. -[136.14 --> 138.58] As I said before, Pi goes to the cage of the tiger -[138.58 --> 142.10] because he wants to see the most dangerous animal in the zoo. -[143.12 --> 144.56] He knows what a tiger can do. -[145.04 --> 147.94] Its power, its teeth, its claws. -[149.10 --> 150.74] So Pi goes to the cage to see it. -[151.70 --> 155.42] When Pi gets there, the tiger sees him and goes to meet Pi at the cage. -[156.62 --> 159.02] Pi was amazed at the tiger's beauty and power. -[159.86 --> 163.34] However, right before the tiger reached the cage wall where Pi was, -[163.70 --> 165.54] Pi's father pulls him from the cage -[165.54 --> 169.18] and saves his life as the tiger's swipe narrowly misses. -[169.18 --> 172.14] Now here's the traumatic part. -[176.22 --> 179.52] To make sure Pi never goes to the cage ever again, -[180.60 --> 184.56] Pi's father makes Pi watch the tiger kill and eat a goat. -[185.82 --> 188.14] His father's questionable technique works, -[188.66 --> 191.10] and Pi never goes close to the cage ever again. -[191.10 --> 192.10] Pi's father's father's father. -[192.10 --> 195.42] The reason I told you this story is, as I said before, -[195.58 --> 199.02] it says something about faith and deeds in a practical and easy way. -[199.98 --> 202.98] Now, of course, this story isn't actually talking about faith and deeds. -[204.14 --> 206.80] Pi's story here is talking about knowledge and action. -[207.70 --> 211.24] But the relationship between knowledge and action is analogous to faith and deeds. -[211.24 --> 215.86] That analogy is, if you believe that a tiger is dangerous, -[216.54 --> 218.04] and you still walk up to a cage, -[218.56 --> 220.06] then your belief doesn't work. -[220.70 --> 221.86] It doesn't change you. -[222.60 --> 223.22] It's useless. -[223.72 --> 225.78] And as James would say, it's dead. -[228.08 --> 230.08] But if you believe that a tiger is dangerous, -[230.48 --> 231.76] and don't walk up to a cage, -[232.34 --> 233.48] don't walk up to a cage, -[234.06 --> 237.38] it means that as a result of your faith, you did something. -[238.42 --> 240.38] It means your faith works, it's effective, -[240.38 --> 242.08] and your faith is alive. -[243.40 --> 246.02] In the passage today, James has been getting at this point -[246.02 --> 248.10] that the life of Pi also expresses. -[249.50 --> 251.68] It's this idea of two types of faith. -[253.20 --> 254.48] A faith that is alone, -[255.10 --> 256.24] and a faith that works. -[258.00 --> 260.36] Faith that is alone is a faith that's isolated. -[260.94 --> 262.60] Faith that only lives in the mind. -[263.30 --> 265.94] A faith that doesn't have any effect on a person's actions, -[266.60 --> 267.86] attitudes, or habits. -[267.86 --> 270.86] Faith that doesn't affect the person's reality. -[272.04 --> 274.64] The other type of faith is a faith that works. -[275.34 --> 276.42] A faith with deeds. -[277.18 --> 278.52] A faith that does something. -[279.08 --> 280.66] A faith that changes a person. -[281.26 --> 283.72] Or as Chris and Kevin have been preaching every Sunday. -[284.50 --> 286.10] A faith that seeks wisdom. -[286.78 --> 289.04] A faith that is steadfast in the trial. -[289.90 --> 292.58] A faith that is slow to anger and quick to listen. -[292.58 --> 294.88] A faith that does what it hears. -[295.88 --> 298.04] A faith that visits the orphan and the widow. -[298.34 --> 301.40] And a faith that is not partial to the rich over the poor. -[301.40 --> 313.20] If you summarize everything James says into one phrase, -[313.26 --> 313.86] it would be this. -[314.52 --> 316.10] We are saved through faith alone, -[316.80 --> 319.30] but a faith that saves is never alone. -[320.58 --> 323.46] Be a hearer and a doer, not just a hearer. -[324.48 --> 326.54] True faith changes a person. -[327.08 --> 328.38] It changes how we behave. -[328.38 --> 331.96] It affects how we speak to each other and how we look at life. -[332.14 --> 334.30] And in turn, good deeds follow. -[335.32 --> 337.42] It's important to note that deeds do not save. -[338.16 --> 339.32] James never claims that. -[339.98 --> 342.90] And I'm going to hit that note multiple times throughout this sermon -[342.90 --> 345.08] to make sure it's clear that I don't claim it. -[346.16 --> 350.58] James completely affirms the passage found in Ephesians 2, 8-9. -[350.58 --> 355.50] For it is by grace you have been saved through faith. -[355.90 --> 357.14] And this is not from yourselves. -[357.72 --> 361.62] It is a gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast. -[362.94 --> 365.80] Deeds following faith is where the passage starts. -[366.14 --> 368.12] And it's threaded through the whole passage today. -[369.08 --> 370.40] We'll get back to Ephesians later. -[372.16 --> 373.70] James starts by saying, -[373.70 --> 395.04] We're given an example of the first kind of faith. -[395.64 --> 398.48] Faith that is alone and doesn't do anything. -[399.04 --> 401.14] And this is expressed in James' opening question. -[401.14 --> 405.52] What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? -[406.40 --> 408.56] This kind of faith is only in the mind. -[409.32 --> 410.84] This faith has no deeds, -[410.94 --> 412.90] which means that if someone were to have this kind of faith, -[413.24 --> 415.76] it would not affect their reality or their world. -[417.34 --> 420.36] In no way does this kind of faith affect the way a person behaves -[420.36 --> 422.30] or treats others in any positive way. -[422.98 --> 426.48] Or in Pi's case, this kind of faith won't stop you from going to the tiger's cage. -[428.10 --> 430.60] James goes on to give an example of this kind of faith. -[430.60 --> 433.58] And he describes a scene that is not that dissimilar from the beginning -[433.58 --> 436.26] of the Good Samaritan found in Luke chapter 10. -[437.92 --> 441.62] Someone walks past a brother or sister who is clearly in need. -[442.26 --> 444.96] They're described as someone without clothes and without food. -[445.74 --> 448.38] This person has a clear description of poverty. -[449.34 --> 452.16] And the person passing by doesn't give them anything -[452.16 --> 454.16] or help them in any way. -[454.66 --> 455.44] They just say, -[455.44 --> 457.00] Go, I wish you well. -[457.58 --> 459.40] Keep warm and be well fed. -[463.22 --> 465.00] In this hypothetical situation, -[465.58 --> 467.80] the person speaking knows what they should do -[467.80 --> 469.40] by their own admission. -[470.10 --> 472.16] They have faith, so to speak. -[472.28 --> 474.16] They know they need to help their brother in need, -[474.36 --> 475.90] but they don't act on it. -[475.90 --> 478.58] I think James brings up this example -[478.58 --> 480.22] because we all do this. -[481.84 --> 484.06] Countless times, driving or walking, -[484.96 --> 487.40] I've passed someone who's in a similar situation -[487.40 --> 488.50] to this person, -[488.90 --> 489.74] and I say to myself, -[489.88 --> 491.64] Man, I really hope they find some food -[491.64 --> 492.86] and get a place to sleep tonight. -[493.18 --> 494.12] It's going to get cold. -[495.42 --> 496.52] And admittedly, most of the time, -[496.56 --> 497.74] I don't do anything about it. -[498.78 --> 499.76] My faith was alone. -[500.10 --> 501.00] I knew they needed something, -[501.08 --> 502.42] and I didn't do anything. -[502.42 --> 505.64] Now, I'm not highlighting this point -[505.64 --> 508.22] so you go and help every person in need, -[508.72 --> 510.24] but if we never help, -[511.30 --> 513.12] then maybe we need to reflect. -[514.64 --> 516.10] James is asking us to decide -[516.10 --> 518.36] that if we feel so convicted by God -[518.36 --> 519.52] to help, -[519.66 --> 520.82] then maybe we should. -[522.90 --> 524.36] James ends this story -[524.36 --> 526.00] with another question and an answer. -[526.50 --> 527.34] What good is it? -[528.02 --> 528.86] In the same way, -[529.00 --> 530.54] faith by itself, -[530.54 --> 532.64] if it's not accompanied by actions, -[532.78 --> 533.28] is dead. -[534.30 --> 535.62] James has asked this question, -[535.74 --> 536.90] what good is it, twice now? -[537.34 --> 538.28] But James doesn't say -[538.28 --> 539.24] that the faith without deeds -[539.24 --> 540.46] is not good. -[541.50 --> 543.04] He says it's dead. -[544.72 --> 546.24] In a very explicit way, -[546.34 --> 548.36] James responds by saying -[548.36 --> 549.28] that faith without works -[549.28 --> 550.96] is like a body without a soul. -[552.18 --> 553.36] It doesn't do anything. -[554.36 --> 555.88] It's simply just there. -[555.88 --> 558.12] And again, -[558.18 --> 559.28] I want to affirm -[559.28 --> 560.44] that James is not saying -[560.44 --> 561.40] that deeds save you. -[562.38 --> 563.98] James affirms that faith saves -[563.98 --> 564.68] by his question, -[564.84 --> 566.28] can that faith save him? -[567.16 --> 568.20] He wants us to understand -[568.20 --> 569.12] that faith saves, -[569.26 --> 571.10] but deeds should follow -[571.10 --> 571.96] from that faith. -[572.46 --> 574.00] Good deeds act as a signal -[574.00 --> 575.08] to true faith. -[576.68 --> 577.90] Saved through faith, -[578.46 --> 578.84] alone. -[579.30 --> 580.30] But a faith that saves -[580.30 --> 581.10] is never alone. -[581.10 --> 584.62] In verse 18 to 19, -[585.28 --> 586.12] James proposes -[586.12 --> 587.44] a hypothetical response -[587.44 --> 588.58] from someone who disagrees -[588.58 --> 590.10] with his teaching so far. -[591.94 --> 593.04] But someone will say, -[593.22 --> 593.84] you have faith, -[594.10 --> 594.90] I have deeds. -[595.96 --> 596.90] Show me your faith -[596.90 --> 597.40] without deeds, -[597.46 --> 598.02] and I will show you -[598.02 --> 599.18] my faith by what I do. -[599.74 --> 600.52] You believe there is -[600.52 --> 601.34] one God, good. -[601.94 --> 603.26] Even the demons believe that -[603.26 --> 604.14] and shudder. -[608.18 --> 609.68] This opponent is supposing -[609.68 --> 611.08] that the two can be separated. -[611.46 --> 612.62] That you can have faith -[612.62 --> 613.30] without deeds. -[614.44 --> 615.40] But as we've seen, -[615.50 --> 616.38] James makes this case -[616.38 --> 617.12] over and over again -[617.12 --> 617.82] that if you separate -[617.82 --> 618.52] faith and deeds, -[618.60 --> 619.28] then you have a faith -[619.28 --> 619.90] that is alone. -[620.96 --> 621.86] A faith that doesn't -[621.86 --> 622.36] do anything, -[622.44 --> 623.26] and a faith like that -[623.26 --> 623.96] is dead. -[625.56 --> 627.10] So he hits the same point again -[627.10 --> 628.50] by expressing what -[628.50 --> 629.88] the second kind of faith is. -[630.40 --> 631.74] I will show you my faith -[631.74 --> 632.90] by what I do. -[633.82 --> 635.56] Deeds following faith. -[637.06 --> 637.94] Deeds are an expression -[637.94 --> 638.78] of a true faith -[638.78 --> 639.52] in the same way -[639.52 --> 640.66] that an apple on a tree -[640.66 --> 641.32] tells you, -[641.92 --> 643.04] you have an apple tree. -[645.40 --> 646.08] James goes on -[646.08 --> 646.80] to hit the point home -[646.80 --> 647.92] by invoking a fundamental -[647.92 --> 649.02] belief to both Jews -[649.02 --> 649.68] and the church. -[650.76 --> 651.38] James writes, -[651.48 --> 652.22] you believe there is -[652.22 --> 653.48] one God, good. -[654.32 --> 654.96] Even the demons -[654.96 --> 655.98] believe that and shudder. -[657.06 --> 657.76] The phrase, -[657.94 --> 658.84] believe God is one, -[659.38 --> 660.04] that James here -[660.04 --> 660.74] is referring to -[660.74 --> 661.98] is one of the core features -[661.98 --> 663.18] of the Jewish faith. -[663.30 --> 664.14] This idea of God -[664.14 --> 664.68] being one -[664.68 --> 666.74] comes from Deuteronomy 6.4. -[668.04 --> 669.02] Hear, O Israel, -[669.52 --> 670.54] the Lord our God, -[670.94 --> 672.56] the Lord is one. -[675.28 --> 676.02] God commanded -[676.02 --> 676.70] the Israelite people -[676.70 --> 677.92] to keep these words -[677.92 --> 678.38] to heart, -[679.06 --> 679.74] to say them -[679.74 --> 680.94] every single day, -[681.28 --> 681.84] to write them -[681.84 --> 682.46] on their walls, -[682.54 --> 683.10] on their houses, -[683.10 --> 683.98] and to teach them -[683.98 --> 685.30] every chance they get. -[686.58 --> 687.28] James brings up -[687.28 --> 687.90] this specifically -[687.90 --> 688.64] because of something -[688.64 --> 690.26] so clearly commanded -[690.26 --> 691.24] by God to be memorized -[691.24 --> 692.52] and recited -[692.52 --> 693.98] every chance they get -[693.98 --> 695.14] meant it was important -[695.14 --> 695.76] to believe. -[696.30 --> 696.64] In fact, -[696.68 --> 697.32] it was central -[697.32 --> 698.00] to their faith. -[699.64 --> 700.62] He states that -[700.62 --> 702.06] demons believe this as well. -[703.08 --> 703.90] He means that as demons -[703.90 --> 705.04] they know God. -[705.70 --> 706.62] They believe in him. -[707.08 --> 708.00] They don't have debates -[708.00 --> 709.48] over whether he might exist -[709.48 --> 709.88] or not. -[710.44 --> 711.16] They watch him -[711.16 --> 712.42] throughout all history. -[712.96 --> 713.56] They watched him -[713.56 --> 714.40] work for the salvation -[714.40 --> 715.12] of humankind. -[715.54 --> 716.24] But as we know, -[716.34 --> 717.86] they don't do anything good -[717.86 --> 719.16] as a result of their faith. -[719.68 --> 720.34] After all, -[720.34 --> 721.82] they're demons. -[728.26 --> 730.18] This man who only has faith -[730.18 --> 731.50] in James' hypothetical -[731.50 --> 732.72] is described as believing -[732.72 --> 733.74] that God is one. -[734.78 --> 736.02] James commends this person -[736.02 --> 736.74] for believing that -[736.74 --> 738.08] because believing that statement -[738.08 --> 739.64] is in fact great. -[740.30 --> 741.80] It's good that he believes that. -[742.26 --> 743.06] James isn't saying -[743.06 --> 743.56] that the person -[743.56 --> 744.28] is like a demon -[744.28 --> 745.86] or is a demon. -[746.28 --> 746.96] Not at all. -[747.42 --> 748.30] He's encouraging the man -[748.30 --> 749.44] that if he believes, -[749.44 --> 751.02] then good deeds -[751.02 --> 751.94] should follow -[751.94 --> 753.54] unlike a demon -[753.54 --> 754.54] who does evil. -[756.20 --> 756.94] James is trying -[756.94 --> 757.50] to tell the reader -[757.50 --> 758.20] that you cannot -[758.20 --> 759.16] separate the two. -[759.78 --> 760.08] And again, -[760.12 --> 761.04] I'm repeating myself here -[761.04 --> 761.56] so that you know -[761.56 --> 762.60] I'm not saying otherwise. -[763.28 --> 764.46] James is not teaching -[764.46 --> 765.40] that by doing good -[765.40 --> 766.60] you can earn salvation. -[767.46 --> 768.28] He's saying -[768.28 --> 769.88] we are saved -[769.88 --> 770.78] through faith alone. -[770.78 --> 772.62] but a faith that saves -[772.62 --> 774.16] is never alone. -[775.78 --> 776.84] We've talked about -[776.84 --> 777.44] the idea -[777.44 --> 778.46] of deeds following -[778.46 --> 779.92] as a result of true faith -[779.92 --> 782.04] and also as a signifier -[782.04 --> 783.04] showing that that faith -[783.04 --> 783.60] is true. -[784.60 --> 785.82] This is for us -[785.82 --> 787.12] so that we can see -[787.12 --> 788.14] that we are being sanctified -[788.14 --> 789.04] by the Holy Spirit. -[789.70 --> 790.82] We can see that God's promise -[790.82 --> 792.06] of making us more like Christ -[792.06 --> 793.42] is happening in real time. -[794.32 --> 794.98] We can look back -[794.98 --> 796.00] at who we used to be -[796.00 --> 797.42] and see the power of God -[797.42 --> 798.46] working in our life -[798.46 --> 799.38] and in turn -[799.38 --> 800.62] we draw into him -[800.62 --> 801.66] more and more. -[803.62 --> 805.06] We know that we as Christians -[805.06 --> 806.32] when we're talking about faith -[806.32 --> 807.50] we talk about faith -[807.50 --> 808.44] in Christ. -[809.42 --> 810.54] Jesus says these words -[810.54 --> 811.80] that we're all familiar with. -[811.80 --> 814.32] For God so loved the world -[814.32 --> 815.48] that he gave his one -[815.48 --> 816.18] and only Son -[816.18 --> 817.74] that whoever believes in him -[817.74 --> 818.60] shall not perish -[818.60 --> 819.68] but have eternal life. -[820.98 --> 823.24] We owe everything to Jesus. -[824.06 --> 825.44] If Christ didn't live -[825.44 --> 826.26] the perfect life -[826.26 --> 827.74] if he didn't preach -[827.74 --> 828.36] the gospel -[828.36 --> 829.64] if he didn't die -[829.64 --> 830.28] on the cross -[830.28 --> 831.36] instead of us -[831.36 --> 833.00] if he wasn't raised -[833.00 --> 833.78] from the dead -[833.78 --> 835.42] we would be dead -[835.42 --> 836.14] in our sin. -[837.56 --> 839.14] It is in Christ alone -[839.14 --> 840.10] that we are saved. -[840.10 --> 842.42] We also affirm -[842.42 --> 843.72] that this is a gift -[843.72 --> 845.58] of God's undeserved grace. -[846.38 --> 847.56] Ephesians 2.8-9 -[847.56 --> 848.70] which was mentioned before -[848.70 --> 849.84] says -[849.84 --> 851.34] for it is by grace -[851.34 --> 852.38] you have been saved -[852.38 --> 853.24] through faith -[853.24 --> 854.64] and this is not -[854.64 --> 855.24] from yourselves -[855.24 --> 856.30] it is a gift of God -[856.30 --> 857.12] not by works -[857.12 --> 858.98] so that no one can boast. -[864.50 --> 865.54] Nothing we could do -[865.54 --> 866.40] could ever earn -[866.40 --> 867.40] ourselves salvation. -[867.82 --> 868.52] It is by God's -[868.52 --> 869.98] sheer grace alone -[869.98 --> 871.00] that we are saved. -[871.90 --> 873.02] No effort of our own -[873.02 --> 873.76] could have saved us -[873.76 --> 874.58] and no good deed -[874.58 --> 875.36] could have earned it. -[876.00 --> 878.42] It is by God's grace alone. -[880.16 --> 881.12] The Heidelberg Catechism -[881.12 --> 882.24] which we are familiar with -[882.24 --> 882.82] if you grew up -[882.82 --> 883.48] in this church -[883.48 --> 885.18] or other CRC churches -[885.18 --> 886.30] we learned it -[886.30 --> 886.86] in our youth -[886.86 --> 888.86] some have even memorized it -[888.86 --> 889.54] to an extent. -[890.22 --> 891.46] It serves as a concise -[891.46 --> 892.42] and thorough teaching -[892.42 --> 893.04] of the truths -[893.04 --> 893.86] that we believe -[893.86 --> 895.16] the Bible teaches. -[895.98 --> 896.82] This catechism -[896.82 --> 898.20] encapsulates James' teaching -[898.20 --> 899.32] in a few of the Lord's Days. -[900.36 --> 901.92] The Lord's Day 7 says -[901.92 --> 903.70] true faith -[903.70 --> 905.36] is not only a knowledge -[905.36 --> 905.96] and a conviction -[905.96 --> 907.32] that everything God reveals -[907.32 --> 908.38] in His Word is true -[908.38 --> 910.48] is a deep rooted assurance -[910.48 --> 911.26] created in me -[911.26 --> 912.14] by the Holy Spirit -[912.14 --> 912.82] through the Gospel -[912.82 --> 914.72] that out of sheer grace -[914.72 --> 915.60] earned for us -[915.60 --> 916.62] by Christ -[916.62 --> 918.12] not only others -[918.12 --> 918.84] but I too -[918.84 --> 921.26] have had my sins forgiven -[921.26 --> 922.78] have been made forever -[922.78 --> 923.58] right with God -[923.58 --> 925.72] and have been granted salvation. -[927.60 --> 929.12] The Lord's Day 24 -[929.12 --> 930.42] goes on to say -[930.42 --> 931.70] it is impossible -[931.70 --> 932.78] for those grafted -[932.78 --> 933.92] into Christ -[933.92 --> 935.06] by true faith -[935.06 --> 936.62] not to produce -[936.62 --> 937.74] fruits of gratitude. -[940.24 --> 942.24] James has been teaching us -[942.24 --> 943.14] that good deeds -[943.14 --> 944.26] follow faith. -[944.62 --> 945.16] These deeds -[945.16 --> 946.16] don't save us -[946.16 --> 947.20] they couldn't. -[947.96 --> 948.68] When James says -[948.68 --> 949.20] that deeds -[949.20 --> 950.92] accompany good faith -[950.92 --> 951.54] it's because -[951.54 --> 952.48] we are being made -[952.48 --> 953.58] like Christ -[953.58 --> 955.26] we're being sanctified. -[955.84 --> 956.36] The Holy Spirit -[956.36 --> 957.34] is working out salvation -[957.34 --> 957.78] in us -[957.78 --> 959.60] to be more like Christ -[959.60 --> 961.00] every single day -[961.00 --> 961.98] which means that -[961.98 --> 963.08] because we are being saved -[963.08 --> 964.04] and being made -[964.04 --> 964.92] more like Christ -[964.92 --> 966.60] we then will act -[966.60 --> 967.46] more like Christ -[967.46 --> 968.54] for the more -[968.54 --> 969.38] any good we do -[969.38 --> 969.94] is because of -[969.94 --> 970.86] His strength. -[971.62 --> 972.56] We can never do good -[972.56 --> 973.26] in God's eyes -[973.26 --> 973.92] if it wasn't for -[973.92 --> 974.48] His strength -[974.48 --> 975.80] His goodness -[975.80 --> 977.34] His faithfulness -[977.34 --> 978.52] and His Spirit -[978.52 --> 979.18] working in us -[979.18 --> 980.22] to sanctify us. -[980.22 --> 981.64] verse 10 -[981.64 --> 982.20] of the Ephesians -[982.20 --> 982.60] passage -[982.60 --> 983.52] affirms this -[983.52 --> 985.30] for we are -[985.30 --> 986.08] God's workmanship -[986.08 --> 987.96] created in Christ -[987.96 --> 988.32] Jesus -[988.32 --> 990.26] to do good works -[990.26 --> 991.36] which God -[991.36 --> 992.12] prepared in advance -[992.12 --> 992.82] for us to do. -[993.86 --> 994.74] Christ obtained -[994.74 --> 995.76] salvation for us -[995.76 --> 996.50] through His blood -[996.50 --> 997.56] the ultimate -[997.56 --> 998.46] good deed -[998.46 --> 999.32] the deed above -[999.32 --> 1000.68] all other deeds -[1000.68 --> 1002.10] therefore since -[1002.10 --> 1002.66] our deeds -[1002.66 --> 1003.48] don't earn us -[1003.48 --> 1004.00] salvation -[1004.00 --> 1005.14] they are fruits -[1005.14 --> 1005.88] of gratitude -[1005.88 --> 1006.62] and obedience -[1006.62 --> 1007.94] we do these -[1007.94 --> 1008.40] good things -[1008.40 --> 1009.40] because we have -[1009.40 --> 1010.30] been saved -[1010.30 --> 1011.74] because He saved us -[1011.74 --> 1012.72] we obey His commands -[1012.72 --> 1013.50] out of love -[1013.50 --> 1015.04] all because God -[1015.04 --> 1016.04] had grace on us -[1016.04 --> 1017.44] and in conclusion -[1017.44 --> 1018.28] we are saved -[1018.28 --> 1019.70] by grace alone -[1019.70 --> 1021.88] by Christ -[1021.88 --> 1022.78] alone -[1022.78 --> 1024.12] by faith -[1024.12 --> 1025.18] alone -[1025.18 --> 1026.32] but a faith -[1026.32 --> 1026.98] that saves -[1026.98 --> 1028.20] is never alone -[1028.20 --> 1028.98] true faith -[1028.98 --> 1030.12] is always accompanied -[1030.12 --> 1031.06] by good deeds -[1031.06 --> 1032.62] not to earn salvation -[1032.62 --> 1033.84] but out of gratitude -[1033.84 --> 1034.90] and obedience -[1034.90 --> 1036.16] for being saved -[1036.16 --> 1038.06] these deeds -[1038.06 --> 1038.74] of gratitude -[1038.74 --> 1039.28] and obedience -[1039.28 --> 1040.10] signify that we -[1040.10 --> 1041.12] have true faith -[1041.12 --> 1042.38] so as members -[1042.38 --> 1043.06] of the church -[1043.06 --> 1044.26] as the body -[1044.26 --> 1044.80] of Christ -[1044.80 --> 1045.98] go and be -[1045.98 --> 1046.92] like Christ -[1046.92 --> 1048.28] go do -[1048.28 --> 1049.14] the work -[1049.14 --> 1050.34] the good deeds -[1050.34 --> 1051.08] God made you -[1051.08 --> 1051.54] to do -[1051.54 --> 1052.90] with His strength -[1052.90 --> 1053.90] because you -[1053.90 --> 1054.38] and I -[1054.38 --> 1055.18] have been saved -[1055.18 --> 1058.84] let's pray -[1058.84 --> 1063.08] our Father -[1063.08 --> 1064.24] thank You -[1064.24 --> 1064.82] for this day -[1064.82 --> 1066.46] thank You Lord -[1066.46 --> 1066.90] that we get to -[1066.90 --> 1067.70] hear Your Word -[1067.70 --> 1070.18] get to say Your Word -[1070.18 --> 1071.98] thank You Lord -[1071.98 --> 1072.46] that we get to -[1072.46 --> 1073.26] know Your truth -[1073.26 --> 1074.92] and get to be -[1074.92 --> 1076.16] made more like Christ -[1076.16 --> 1077.02] and we don't have -[1077.02 --> 1078.00] to stay the way -[1078.00 --> 1079.74] we normally are -[1079.74 --> 1081.24] our sinful selves -[1081.24 --> 1082.14] thank You -[1082.14 --> 1082.92] for Your grace -[1082.92 --> 1084.22] and Your goodness -[1084.22 --> 1085.40] and Your love -[1085.40 --> 1087.18] that we do not -[1087.18 --> 1087.60] deserve -[1087.60 --> 1088.68] and that was -[1088.68 --> 1089.54] earned for us -[1089.54 --> 1090.38] on our behalf -[1090.38 --> 1092.68] because we -[1092.68 --> 1093.42] couldn't do it -[1093.42 --> 1094.92] we never could -[1094.92 --> 1097.00] thank You Lord -[1097.00 --> 1097.74] for Your love -[1097.74 --> 1099.10] and Your patience -[1099.10 --> 1100.00] with our faultiness -[1100.00 --> 1101.54] and when we do -[1101.54 --> 1102.44] not do what we -[1102.44 --> 1102.80] hear -[1102.80 --> 1104.32] when we do not -[1104.32 --> 1104.78] act -[1104.78 --> 1105.58] when we should -[1105.58 --> 1106.48] when we have -[1106.48 --> 1106.86] faith -[1106.86 --> 1108.48] I pray that You -[1108.48 --> 1109.48] would instill in us -[1109.48 --> 1110.34] truer and truer -[1110.34 --> 1110.84] faith -[1110.84 --> 1111.96] and that we would -[1111.96 --> 1112.60] continue to be -[1112.60 --> 1113.58] sanctified by Your -[1113.58 --> 1114.06] Spirit -[1114.06 --> 1115.72] and become more -[1115.72 --> 1116.34] like Christ -[1116.34 --> 1117.60] to do Your work -[1117.60 --> 1119.66] and I pray Lord -[1119.66 --> 1120.62] that we would -[1120.62 --> 1121.50] continue to glorify -[1121.50 --> 1122.58] You in all that we -[1122.58 --> 1122.86] do -[1122.86 --> 1124.50] Amen diff --git "a/Faith\342\200\231s Additives (Sermon)_summary.txt" "b/Faith\342\200\231s Additives (Sermon)_summary.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 0190a9f02ca609215af45bb8f16e9736f3909bde..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Faith\342\200\231s Additives (Sermon)_summary.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,69 +0,0 @@ -• The importance of isolation for preserving health and healthy views of life -• The concept of a "pandemic of sin" being just as deadly as COVID-19 -• The idea that faith can be the antidote to spiritual illness -• Discussion of 2 Peter 1, verses 5-11, and the importance of adding virtues such as goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, mutual affection, and love to one's faith -• The relationship between possessing these virtues and being effective in one's knowledge of Jesus Christ -• The importance of confirming one's calling and election -• A personal anecdote about receiving a new barbecue as a gift, with the speaker wishing that God would assemble us spiritually in the same way -• The need for more than just faith to achieve a godly life, but rather building on it and adding to it -• The importance of making an effort to add to one's faith in Jesus Christ -• The relationship between truly believing in Jesus and wanting to be like him. -• The speaker emphasizes the importance of faith and its incentive to work out one's faith in Jesus -• The idea is compared to fishing, where staying engaged and imagining the catch keeps the line in the water -• Dallas Willard is quoted as saying that spiritual formation in Christians has been stifled by believing they can be slack in obeying or following Jesus -• Jesus' words are cited, stating that if one loves him, they will keep his commandments -• Gandhi's quote is mentioned, suggesting that if Christians lived according to their belief, all would become Christians -• The importance of obedience and intent in following Jesus -• Peter's instruction to add to one's faith and build on knowledge of Christ -• Faith being a conscious and persistent choice to cooperate with the spirit of Christ -• Characteristics of believers including patience, joy, love, and other fruits of Christ -• The role of intention and effort in following Christ -• Good intentions are necessary but not sufficient without actual intent and effort -• The importance of having a strong will and making decisions to achieve goals -• The difference between intention and action in achieving success -• The role of God's will in the formation of human spirit and character -• The need for humans to set their will on doing God's will, as exemplified by Jesus' passion. -• The will of God vs human pressure and temptation -• Jesus' example in resisting the will of others and persevering in faith -• Peter's understanding that spiritual growth is a slow, arduous process -• Recognizing setbacks and failures as opportunities for reflection and self-examination -• Emphasizing the importance of humility and seeking God's guidance -• The speaker reflects on their faith in Jesus and the importance of living a life that aligns with God's plan. -• They discuss the concept of "adding to" one's faith, drawing from biblical language and cultural context. -• Christ is described as the main singer or central figure, with those following Him adding to their faith through various attributes and qualities. -• The speaker cites Peter's list of virtues and qualities that can be added to one's faith, such as goodness, moral fortitude, power, and energy. -• The importance of diligence and self-discipline in becoming a virtuous person -• Adding faith to one's knowledge and gaining practical insights -• Understanding Christ and being his disciple -• Recognizing that much of our work is done internally, including self-control and managing one's feelings and soul -• Practicing self-leadership and perseverance -• Perseverance in the face of obstacles is crucial for achieving godliness and living a life that reflects Christ's teachings. -• The ultimate goal is to be like Christ and to have God "retrofit" us back into his image through the Holy Spirit. -• Showing mutual affection, warmth, and friendliness to others is essential for building a healthy church community. -• Loving one's neighbor as oneself is the greatest virtue and a fundamental aspect of living a life that reflects Christian values. -• Developing virtues and attributes is part of living in Christ -• Love keeps motivation pure -• Possessing these qualities helps prevent being ineffective and unproductive -• Change happens slowly, requiring patience and self-graciousness -• Addictions can be overcome with time and spiritual growth -• Working hard and daily turning to Christ leads to maturing and seeing results -• Ineffective and unproductive faith -• Choosing not to work at faith and settling for the status quo -• The importance of spiritual growth and maturity in Christ -• Losing sight of the future that Christ offers and forgetting past sins covered by His blood -• Failure to pursue spiritual growth as a sign of lost vision and forgotten identity in Christ -• AA's sixth step involves surrendering to God -• The process of becoming spiritually perfect is a gradual one -• The difference between striving for self-determined goals vs. spiritual perfection -• Negative consequences of not working towards spiritual goals -• Three positive reasons for being intentional about adding to faith, based on verses 10 and 11 -• The relationship between God's initiative and human response in faith -• The importance of balance in the Christian life, not a 50-50 split but rather 100% from both God and humanity -• The role of Christ as the proactive initiator of redemption and humans as reactive responders to His work -• The development of confidence and spiritual growth through consistent practice and application of one's faith -• The assurance of eternal life and a warm welcome in God's kingdom, regardless of earthly circumstances -• Pursuing Christ leads to a deeper sense of hope in the soul -• The importance of prayer and God's word in life -• Being welcomed home someday as saints, cleansed from sin -• Living like saints by pursuing purity and holiness -• Receiving God's grace to name sin, add to faith, and become more like Christ \ No newline at end of file diff --git "a/Faith\342\200\231s Additives (Sermon)_transcript.txt" "b/Faith\342\200\231s Additives (Sermon)_transcript.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 2fc3fdab7b2fd82d1d650424d44f2451f06288ce..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Faith\342\200\231s Additives (Sermon)_transcript.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1802 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 1.70] Thank you for that prayer. -[3.24 --> 4.28] It's true. -[4.86 --> 6.38] And your reflections, Peter. -[6.38 --> 13.00] The situation does make us think, doesn't it? -[14.06 --> 17.40] While we adjust the sound, we've got to adjust ourselves. -[19.92 --> 23.40] When I think of Christian education, if I have my history correct, -[23.48 --> 27.38] one of the reasons that we began Christian schools is, -[27.38 --> 30.04] if you don't mind the word, to isolate. -[31.48 --> 33.86] Because we saw the dangers that were elsewhere. -[35.30 --> 38.20] And we didn't isolate because we wanted to just be by ourselves, -[38.30 --> 40.06] but we wanted to preserve health. -[41.96 --> 43.42] Healthy views of life. -[44.80 --> 48.06] That's one thing I've seen there's value in isolation. -[48.34 --> 52.46] This weekend, I'm rambling before my message. -[52.92 --> 53.52] Forgive me. -[53.52 --> 59.44] In Leviticus, it talked about how with certain diseases, -[60.50 --> 65.50] people were sent outside the camp to preserve those in the camp. -[66.06 --> 69.72] It's been part of our life for a long time. -[69.86 --> 72.62] And being wise about our isolation. -[72.62 --> 78.38] The other thing I've been very conscious of through this time, -[79.26 --> 80.32] as we confessed, -[81.26 --> 86.84] is what our world has not taken serious enough -[86.84 --> 90.06] is the pandemic of sin. -[92.24 --> 93.48] Because it's deadly. -[95.20 --> 98.32] In our secular world, we think on this level only. -[98.32 --> 104.16] So COVID scares the you-know-what out of us. -[104.82 --> 107.36] Because we don't, as a culture, think this way. -[109.30 --> 111.32] But we don't want to be that way, do we? -[112.60 --> 119.18] We want to see that with illness and with spiritual, -[119.74 --> 121.06] shall we call it, illness, -[121.06 --> 124.04] we have a God that we can go to. -[125.20 --> 129.22] And that's really where the message this morning focuses on -[129.22 --> 132.24] when we talk about faith's additives. -[136.58 --> 138.26] Oh, it's quite some time ago, -[138.38 --> 139.56] probably a year and a half, -[140.36 --> 143.32] that I preached on 2 Peter 1. -[143.32 --> 149.82] The verses 5 to... -[149.82 --> 152.22] 5 and... -[152.22 --> 153.08] 3 and 4. -[153.42 --> 155.28] I've got to put my glasses on. -[156.00 --> 158.24] We preached on the verses 3 and 4. -[159.60 --> 161.80] And next week, hopefully, -[162.02 --> 165.82] I can continue on with verses 12 and 13. -[165.82 --> 169.52] And we might put these three messages -[169.52 --> 173.88] using the analogy VIM. -[174.20 --> 176.06] You know, VIM is a... -[176.06 --> 177.68] Well, I think it's soap of some kind. -[178.10 --> 179.92] V stands for vision. -[180.90 --> 182.64] The vision that Christ gives us. -[182.80 --> 183.44] And we'll... -[183.44 --> 184.88] That's verses 3 and 4. -[185.00 --> 186.28] We'll just read that again. -[187.54 --> 189.70] This morning, we look at the I. -[190.60 --> 193.02] The intent that we have -[193.02 --> 195.28] to pursue this vision in Christ. -[195.82 --> 198.86] And then next week, -[198.96 --> 200.14] we look at the means. -[200.78 --> 201.98] And there's many means, -[202.14 --> 204.76] but primarily the means of Scripture. -[207.48 --> 208.94] So that being said, -[209.00 --> 210.32] let me also add this, -[210.62 --> 212.20] that as I was reviewing -[212.20 --> 216.02] and revising this message, -[216.38 --> 220.48] it reminded me of how this is the message for me -[220.48 --> 224.44] as much as it is for anyone else. -[225.82 --> 229.92] 2 Peter 1, verses 1 to 11. -[229.92 --> 236.74] Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, -[236.74 --> 238.68] to those who, -[238.68 --> 241.56] to those who, through the righteousness of our God and Savior, -[241.56 --> 243.12] Jesus Christ, -[243.12 --> 249.42] have received a faith as precious as ours. -[250.26 --> 253.90] Grace and peace be yours in abundance -[253.90 --> 259.42] through the knowledge or through our knowing of God and of Jesus, -[260.22 --> 260.88] our Lord. -[260.88 --> 269.24] His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life -[269.24 --> 273.82] through our knowledge or knowing of Him who called us -[273.82 --> 277.28] by His own glory and goodness. -[278.28 --> 282.40] Through these resources of knowing Him, -[282.64 --> 284.18] through His goodness and glory, -[284.64 --> 289.46] He has given us His very great and precious promises -[289.46 --> 295.18] so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, -[295.18 --> 302.06] having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. -[304.06 --> 306.34] And then comes our text. -[307.06 --> 309.48] For this very reason, -[310.04 --> 314.52] make every effort to add to your faith goodness -[314.52 --> 316.74] and to goodness, -[316.74 --> 316.80] and to goodness, -[316.80 --> 317.86] and to goodness, -[317.86 --> 318.10] knowledge, -[318.10 --> 320.22] and to knowledge, -[320.22 --> 322.16] self-control, -[322.16 --> 324.92] and to self-control, -[324.92 --> 326.44] perseverance, -[327.44 --> 328.68] and to perseverance, -[329.96 --> 330.52] godliness, -[331.42 --> 332.86] and to godliness, -[333.90 --> 335.62] mutual affection, -[336.62 --> 338.84] and to mutual affection, -[340.06 --> 340.54] love. -[340.54 --> 346.96] For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, -[347.60 --> 350.82] they will keep you from being ineffective -[350.82 --> 356.32] and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. -[357.44 --> 361.54] But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, -[361.90 --> 365.78] forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins. -[367.04 --> 369.06] Therefore, my brothers and sisters, -[369.06 --> 374.84] make every effort to confirm your calling and election. -[376.18 --> 377.96] For if you do these things, -[378.26 --> 380.32] you will never stumble, -[380.84 --> 383.58] and you will receive a rich welcome -[383.58 --> 385.52] into the eternal kingdom -[385.52 --> 387.98] of our Lord and Savior, -[388.72 --> 390.12] Jesus Christ. -[391.14 --> 392.86] It's the word of our Lord. -[393.56 --> 394.94] Thanks be to God. -[394.94 --> 397.78] Dear friends, -[397.94 --> 399.18] brothers and sisters, -[399.18 --> 400.40] in Christ, -[400.64 --> 402.20] a number of years ago, -[402.70 --> 405.18] when we were still living in Winnipeg, -[405.30 --> 408.58] some generous friends gave me a brand new barbecue -[408.58 --> 409.52] for my birthday. -[410.96 --> 412.44] It was fall. -[412.92 --> 415.10] My birthday's in September, -[415.44 --> 418.12] and that's a busy time for pastors. -[418.12 --> 421.16] And so I took the box and put it in the garage. -[422.72 --> 425.16] And we were several weeks into spring, -[425.86 --> 430.54] and I had once again begun to use the old barbecue, -[431.22 --> 432.82] which, like its owner, -[432.94 --> 434.44] didn't burn evenly, you know, -[434.54 --> 435.62] hot in some spots, -[435.72 --> 436.96] not so hot in the other. -[437.54 --> 438.98] And one Saturday afternoon, -[439.04 --> 442.54] I came home from finishing preparations, -[442.54 --> 444.30] and there was the new barbecue, -[445.50 --> 446.48] fully assembled, -[447.10 --> 448.52] sitting in our family room -[448.52 --> 452.86] with our friends standing beside it. -[452.92 --> 455.38] They'd come and put the whole thing together. -[455.88 --> 457.76] I had been looking against it a little bit, -[457.82 --> 459.50] and I was so grateful. -[461.46 --> 462.58] Now, wouldn't it be good -[462.58 --> 464.66] if God did that to us spiritually? -[464.66 --> 469.24] If he just put us all together -[469.24 --> 471.32] so that there we were, -[471.50 --> 472.66] ready to go, -[474.62 --> 477.00] firing on all eight cylinders, you might say. -[477.90 --> 479.72] If God would, you know, -[480.80 --> 481.96] surprise us -[481.96 --> 485.06] and make us fully functional, -[486.56 --> 489.36] it would be great -[489.36 --> 491.62] if the Holy Spirit would go -[491.62 --> 493.62] presto, kind of, -[494.66 --> 496.92] and we could take on -[496.92 --> 498.58] what Peter talks about -[498.58 --> 500.02] as this divine nature, -[500.66 --> 503.70] then I would never misspeak again -[503.70 --> 504.40] in my life. -[505.38 --> 507.60] I would always be patient -[507.60 --> 509.38] in traffic. -[510.98 --> 513.06] I'd always be quick to forgive -[513.06 --> 514.36] whoever hurt me. -[515.94 --> 518.46] And I'd no longer excuse -[518.46 --> 520.46] my miserly attitude -[520.46 --> 521.56] as good stewardship. -[521.56 --> 526.66] then I'd love people consistently. -[528.14 --> 530.34] Well, it's somewhat wishful thinking -[530.34 --> 532.26] because God says, -[532.76 --> 534.84] as he does in those first few verses -[534.84 --> 535.66] of Peter, -[535.98 --> 536.96] I've given you -[536.96 --> 539.32] everything we need -[539.32 --> 542.26] for a godly life, -[542.52 --> 545.68] but read the label on the box, -[545.68 --> 548.54] assembly required. -[550.86 --> 552.40] See, it's not enough -[552.40 --> 553.98] to just believe -[553.98 --> 555.44] in Jesus. -[557.18 --> 558.62] We need to have -[558.62 --> 560.52] more than faith. -[561.72 --> 563.54] We need to build on it. -[564.60 --> 566.60] Or at least we need to -[566.60 --> 567.64] want -[567.64 --> 569.22] to build, -[569.44 --> 570.98] to add to it. -[570.98 --> 573.98] For this very reason, -[574.18 --> 574.80] says Peter, -[574.92 --> 576.36] you make every effort -[576.36 --> 577.80] to add -[577.80 --> 579.28] to your faith. -[580.86 --> 581.82] In other words, -[582.02 --> 583.52] it falls to reason. -[583.62 --> 584.64] It only makes -[584.64 --> 586.26] good sense -[586.26 --> 587.24] that once -[587.24 --> 588.76] we grasp -[588.76 --> 591.22] who Jesus is, -[591.58 --> 592.56] what he's done -[592.56 --> 593.30] for us, -[593.42 --> 595.02] and what he's holding out -[595.02 --> 596.66] for us in our future, -[596.66 --> 597.98] that we're going -[597.98 --> 599.70] to want to add -[599.70 --> 601.30] to our faith in him. -[605.34 --> 606.22] If we -[606.22 --> 608.12] truly believe, -[608.36 --> 609.10] see Jesus -[609.10 --> 610.28] for who he is, -[610.36 --> 611.64] then we'll at least -[611.64 --> 612.98] want -[612.98 --> 614.82] to be like him. -[616.62 --> 617.26] Because -[617.26 --> 618.52] true faith -[618.52 --> 619.88] gets -[619.88 --> 620.94] to work. -[621.74 --> 622.42] And as Peter -[622.42 --> 623.34] and as James -[623.34 --> 623.82] says, -[624.48 --> 625.18] such faith -[625.18 --> 626.58] actually does work. -[627.38 --> 627.94] It gets -[627.94 --> 628.40] the job -[628.40 --> 628.78] done. -[631.32 --> 632.34] And the incentive -[632.34 --> 633.90] for working -[633.90 --> 634.84] out our faith -[634.84 --> 635.90] is this vision -[635.90 --> 638.08] of who we are -[638.08 --> 638.94] and of who -[638.94 --> 639.74] we actually -[639.74 --> 641.26] will become -[641.26 --> 642.68] in Christ -[642.68 --> 643.12] Jesus. -[646.30 --> 647.02] I think -[647.02 --> 647.46] it was last -[647.46 --> 648.06] summer I was -[648.06 --> 648.86] privileged to do -[648.86 --> 649.52] some fishing -[649.52 --> 650.32] on the ocean, -[651.06 --> 652.04] and we had -[652.04 --> 652.84] this guide -[652.84 --> 655.20] who was -[655.20 --> 655.82] continually, -[655.82 --> 656.70] and this -[656.70 --> 657.16] has to do -[657.16 --> 657.74] with the vision. -[657.98 --> 658.12] He was -[658.12 --> 658.46] turned, -[659.10 --> 659.68] he was, -[660.06 --> 660.62] you could see -[660.62 --> 661.14] someone getting -[661.14 --> 661.56] bored. -[661.56 --> 663.14] We had to -[663.14 --> 663.84] imagine -[663.84 --> 664.76] this fish -[664.76 --> 665.70] on the line. -[666.34 --> 666.90] Imagine -[666.90 --> 667.52] the fish. -[668.34 --> 669.16] And then we -[669.16 --> 669.84] lost one, -[670.06 --> 670.48] and he said, -[670.56 --> 671.08] now you've got to -[671.08 --> 672.36] imagine the fish -[672.36 --> 673.00] in the boat. -[673.88 --> 675.04] He wanted us -[675.04 --> 676.12] to stay engaged. -[676.12 --> 676.36] fished. -[677.80 --> 678.78] Our faith -[678.78 --> 679.46] in Jesus -[679.46 --> 680.20] is the -[680.20 --> 680.90] incentive -[680.90 --> 681.84] for us -[681.84 --> 684.14] to, as it -[684.14 --> 684.66] were, keep -[684.66 --> 685.28] our line -[685.28 --> 685.98] in the water, -[686.40 --> 687.20] to keep -[687.20 --> 687.66] fishing, -[688.04 --> 688.78] to keep -[688.78 --> 689.36] working -[689.36 --> 690.36] at it, -[690.76 --> 691.64] or at least -[691.64 --> 692.34] to fully -[692.34 --> 693.14] intend -[693.14 --> 694.64] to obey -[694.64 --> 695.20] God, -[695.40 --> 696.04] to follow -[696.04 --> 696.70] Christ. -[697.34 --> 697.84] Keep -[697.84 --> 698.24] fishing, -[698.40 --> 698.86] if you will. -[698.86 --> 702.54] an illusion, -[703.10 --> 703.50] Dallas -[703.50 --> 704.00] Willard -[704.00 --> 704.40] says, -[704.50 --> 704.92] that has -[704.92 --> 705.68] stifled -[705.68 --> 706.56] spiritual -[706.56 --> 707.68] formation -[707.68 --> 709.20] in Christians -[709.20 --> 709.82] is the -[709.82 --> 710.26] thinking -[710.26 --> 711.54] that we -[711.54 --> 712.28] can believe -[712.28 --> 712.92] in Jesus -[712.92 --> 714.82] and be -[714.82 --> 715.46] slack when -[715.46 --> 715.94] it comes -[715.94 --> 716.66] to obeying -[716.66 --> 717.60] or following -[717.60 --> 717.96] him. -[718.68 --> 719.12] We've -[719.12 --> 719.46] emphasized -[719.46 --> 720.12] faith. -[720.12 --> 723.44] Jesus -[723.44 --> 724.02] said to -[724.02 --> 724.24] his -[724.24 --> 724.80] disciples, -[725.00 --> 725.24] you know, -[725.32 --> 725.54] if you -[725.54 --> 725.96] love me, -[726.02 --> 726.38] you keep -[726.38 --> 726.64] my -[726.64 --> 727.14] commandments. -[728.00 --> 728.38] They go -[728.38 --> 728.86] together. -[731.78 --> 732.26] Gandhi -[732.26 --> 732.90] said that -[732.90 --> 733.54] if Christians -[733.54 --> 734.04] would live -[734.04 --> 734.72] according to -[734.72 --> 735.48] their belief, -[736.06 --> 737.12] we would -[737.12 --> 737.86] all become -[737.86 --> 738.46] Christians. -[740.42 --> 741.38] And the -[741.38 --> 741.98] truth is, -[742.14 --> 742.60] Christians -[742.60 --> 744.20] do act -[744.20 --> 744.90] according -[744.90 --> 746.02] to their -[746.02 --> 746.58] belief. -[747.34 --> 748.50] And many -[748.50 --> 749.74] reveal by -[749.74 --> 749.98] their -[749.98 --> 750.56] actions -[750.56 --> 751.00] that they -[751.00 --> 751.40] don't -[751.40 --> 751.88] believe -[751.88 --> 752.52] in Jesus -[752.52 --> 753.76] all that -[753.76 --> 754.66] much. -[755.94 --> 756.70] Because -[756.70 --> 757.08] it's -[757.08 --> 757.48] simply -[757.48 --> 757.88] not -[757.88 --> 758.58] possible, -[758.74 --> 759.28] as Jesus -[759.28 --> 759.74] said, -[760.14 --> 760.84] to believe -[760.84 --> 761.40] in him -[761.40 --> 762.66] and love -[762.66 --> 763.68] him and -[763.68 --> 764.78] not obey -[764.78 --> 765.16] him, -[765.46 --> 765.82] or at -[765.82 --> 766.08] least -[766.08 --> 766.76] intend -[766.76 --> 767.08] to. -[768.38 --> 769.08] That's -[769.08 --> 769.50] Peter's -[769.50 --> 769.86] flow of -[769.86 --> 770.36] thought when -[770.36 --> 770.84] he says, -[771.38 --> 771.86] for this -[771.86 --> 772.50] reason, -[773.58 --> 774.32] make every -[774.32 --> 775.80] effort to -[775.80 --> 777.10] add to -[777.10 --> 777.82] your faith. -[779.74 --> 780.50] because of -[780.50 --> 781.48] how you -[781.48 --> 781.80] know -[781.80 --> 782.48] Christ. -[783.38 --> 783.86] Build on -[783.86 --> 784.06] that -[784.06 --> 784.62] knowledge. -[786.22 --> 786.86] See, -[786.94 --> 787.16] that's -[787.16 --> 787.90] faith that's -[787.90 --> 788.56] followed up. -[788.66 --> 788.98] It's -[788.98 --> 789.44] being -[789.44 --> 790.42] faithful. -[792.02 --> 792.58] And it -[792.58 --> 793.50] involves a -[793.50 --> 795.28] conscious and -[795.28 --> 796.20] a persistent -[796.20 --> 797.98] choice to -[797.98 --> 799.54] cooperate with -[799.54 --> 801.00] the spirit of -[801.00 --> 802.80] Christ so -[802.80 --> 803.28] that the -[803.28 --> 803.94] fruits of -[803.94 --> 804.92] him, you -[804.92 --> 805.14] know, -[805.50 --> 805.98] patience, -[806.30 --> 806.70] joy, -[807.10 --> 807.34] love, -[807.42 --> 807.74] and so -[807.74 --> 808.00] on, -[808.20 --> 808.64] become -[808.64 --> 809.30] evident in -[809.30 --> 809.80] our life. -[811.92 --> 812.74] Anyone who -[812.74 --> 813.36] believes in -[813.36 --> 814.92] Jesus signs -[814.92 --> 815.64] up, as -[815.64 --> 816.02] Dallas -[816.02 --> 816.74] Willard says, -[816.80 --> 817.36] to be an -[817.36 --> 817.90] apprentice, -[818.94 --> 819.74] someone who's -[819.74 --> 821.00] eager to -[821.00 --> 821.56] know what -[821.56 --> 822.22] he teaches, -[823.38 --> 824.94] to learn the -[824.94 --> 825.68] tricks of the -[825.68 --> 826.42] trade of -[826.42 --> 826.90] being a -[826.90 --> 827.42] disciple. -[829.56 --> 830.10] And one of -[830.10 --> 830.60] his great -[830.60 --> 831.52] frustrations -[831.52 --> 832.12] was that -[832.12 --> 833.80] Christians often -[833.80 --> 835.34] didn't display -[835.34 --> 837.18] much desire -[837.18 --> 838.94] to be more -[838.94 --> 840.40] like Christ. -[843.36 --> 844.40] Now, in all -[844.40 --> 844.90] fairness, -[846.00 --> 847.46] it's possible -[847.46 --> 848.38] to make too -[848.38 --> 849.06] much of -[849.06 --> 850.20] intending -[850.20 --> 852.16] to follow -[852.16 --> 852.66] Christ. -[852.84 --> 853.20] You know -[853.20 --> 853.84] the saying, -[854.58 --> 855.10] the way to -[855.10 --> 855.76] hell is -[855.76 --> 857.24] paved with -[857.24 --> 858.18] good intentions. -[860.34 --> 861.24] But does -[861.24 --> 862.02] that rule out -[862.02 --> 862.78] good intentions? -[864.20 --> 865.16] If we have -[865.16 --> 865.98] no intentions, -[866.98 --> 867.68] we'll do -[867.68 --> 868.06] nothing. -[870.16 --> 871.16] It isn't a -[871.16 --> 871.60] matter of -[871.60 --> 871.98] whether we -[871.98 --> 872.88] should have -[872.88 --> 873.54] intentions, -[873.74 --> 874.36] I believe it, -[874.40 --> 875.36] but how -[875.36 --> 876.18] intent we -[876.18 --> 877.58] actually are, -[877.72 --> 878.44] because unless -[878.44 --> 879.16] we're fully -[879.16 --> 880.82] intent and -[880.82 --> 881.68] make every -[881.68 --> 882.22] effort, -[882.74 --> 883.26] we'll get -[883.26 --> 883.94] distracted. -[885.04 --> 885.78] Believe me, -[886.34 --> 887.48] I know. -[887.48 --> 891.24] we have to -[891.24 --> 891.70] do more -[891.70 --> 892.84] than like -[892.84 --> 893.88] to follow -[893.88 --> 894.32] Jesus. -[895.44 --> 896.44] We must -[896.44 --> 897.42] decide -[897.42 --> 898.92] to obey -[898.92 --> 899.22] Him, -[899.82 --> 900.62] to be like -[900.62 --> 900.84] Him. -[902.12 --> 902.62] It's the -[902.62 --> 902.98] difference -[902.98 --> 903.84] between someone -[903.84 --> 904.78] who would -[904.78 --> 905.68] like to -[905.68 --> 906.58] quit swearing -[906.58 --> 907.10] or who -[907.10 --> 907.88] would like -[907.88 --> 908.52] to quit -[908.52 --> 909.06] smoking, -[909.34 --> 909.90] or who -[909.90 --> 910.80] decides -[910.80 --> 911.56] to do -[911.56 --> 911.84] that. -[913.12 --> 914.00] The one -[914.00 --> 914.24] will -[914.24 --> 914.90] persevere. -[914.90 --> 917.80] the one -[917.80 --> 918.18] will give -[918.18 --> 918.56] it some -[918.56 --> 918.94] effort. -[921.42 --> 922.12] The one -[922.12 --> 922.48] will give -[922.48 --> 923.16] religion a -[923.16 --> 923.60] shot, -[924.44 --> 925.16] while the -[925.16 --> 925.86] other sells -[925.86 --> 926.28] out, -[927.14 --> 927.70] makes a -[927.70 --> 927.90] firm -[927.90 --> 928.46] decision. -[929.98 --> 930.68] So the -[930.68 --> 931.10] proverb, -[931.36 --> 931.68] that the -[931.68 --> 932.10] way to -[932.10 --> 932.54] hell is -[932.54 --> 933.06] paved with -[933.06 --> 934.12] good intentions, -[934.80 --> 935.44] needs to -[935.44 --> 936.90] be counterbalanced -[936.90 --> 937.62] with this -[937.62 --> 938.30] proverb, -[938.92 --> 939.46] where there -[939.46 --> 939.90] is a -[939.90 --> 940.30] will, -[941.04 --> 941.58] there is -[941.58 --> 941.98] a way. -[941.98 --> 945.92] It's -[945.92 --> 946.50] pretty much -[946.50 --> 947.10] true of us -[947.10 --> 947.38] humans, -[947.50 --> 947.94] isn't it? -[949.12 --> 949.56] You think -[949.56 --> 949.82] of your -[949.82 --> 950.50] own life, -[951.24 --> 951.52] you've -[951.52 --> 951.78] probably -[951.78 --> 952.24] observed -[952.24 --> 952.62] that, -[952.78 --> 953.32] we do -[953.32 --> 953.64] in our -[953.64 --> 953.96] children -[953.96 --> 954.40] and in -[954.40 --> 954.94] ourselves. -[956.02 --> 956.50] We -[956.50 --> 957.08] accomplish -[957.08 --> 957.96] what we -[957.96 --> 958.48] set out -[958.48 --> 959.06] to do. -[960.42 --> 960.86] It's -[960.86 --> 961.30] what God -[961.30 --> 961.82] noticed -[961.82 --> 962.30] at the -[962.30 --> 962.80] Tower of -[962.80 --> 963.14] Babel -[963.14 --> 963.86] when He -[963.86 --> 964.48] looked down, -[965.28 --> 965.78] saw the -[965.78 --> 966.48] activity of -[966.48 --> 966.98] humans. -[968.72 --> 969.10] Nothing -[969.10 --> 969.96] they plan -[969.96 --> 970.60] to do -[970.60 --> 971.18] will be -[971.18 --> 971.78] impossible. -[971.98 --> 972.60] for them, -[973.16 --> 973.64] he said. -[976.34 --> 976.98] The -[976.98 --> 977.34] will is -[977.34 --> 977.58] very -[977.58 --> 978.16] powerful -[978.16 --> 980.94] and it's -[980.94 --> 981.36] critical -[981.36 --> 982.40] for the -[982.40 --> 983.06] formation -[983.06 --> 984.10] of our -[984.10 --> 984.60] spirit -[984.60 --> 985.54] and our -[985.54 --> 986.18] character. -[989.12 --> 989.80] We -[989.80 --> 990.22] are to -[990.22 --> 991.02] set our -[991.02 --> 991.46] will -[991.46 --> 992.52] on doing -[992.52 --> 993.76] God's -[993.76 --> 994.28] will. -[994.46 --> 994.70] That, -[995.14 --> 995.58] was it -[995.58 --> 995.88] not, -[995.98 --> 996.42] was the -[996.42 --> 996.96] passion -[996.96 --> 997.88] of our -[997.88 --> 998.18] Lord -[998.18 --> 998.66] Jesus. -[999.34 --> 999.54] The -[999.54 --> 999.90] scripture -[999.90 --> 1000.46] said, -[1000.46 --> 1001.10] He -[1001.10 --> 1001.88] set His -[1001.88 --> 1002.36] heart -[1002.36 --> 1004.08] resolutely -[1004.08 --> 1005.96] to go to -[1005.96 --> 1006.52] Jerusalem -[1006.52 --> 1007.86] and to -[1007.86 --> 1008.28] go to -[1008.28 --> 1008.62] that -[1008.62 --> 1009.74] cross, -[1010.38 --> 1010.96] to do -[1010.96 --> 1011.38] the will -[1011.38 --> 1011.82] of Him -[1011.82 --> 1012.88] who sent -[1012.88 --> 1013.18] Him. -[1013.58 --> 1014.24] And if it -[1014.24 --> 1014.96] had not -[1014.96 --> 1015.84] been Jesus' -[1016.50 --> 1017.58] resolute -[1017.58 --> 1018.34] will, -[1018.82 --> 1021.36] we can be -[1021.36 --> 1022.28] sure He -[1022.28 --> 1022.68] would have -[1022.68 --> 1023.54] given in -[1023.54 --> 1024.40] to the -[1024.40 --> 1024.92] political -[1024.92 --> 1025.88] pressures -[1025.88 --> 1027.04] around Him. -[1027.04 --> 1027.84] and our -[1027.84 --> 1028.42] redemption -[1028.42 --> 1029.76] would not -[1029.76 --> 1030.50] have been -[1030.50 --> 1031.12] accomplished. -[1032.52 --> 1033.24] And our -[1033.24 --> 1034.02] own personal -[1034.02 --> 1034.68] redemption -[1034.68 --> 1035.80] will not be -[1035.80 --> 1036.30] fully -[1036.30 --> 1037.20] accomplished -[1037.20 --> 1038.30] if we -[1038.30 --> 1038.92] are not -[1038.92 --> 1039.80] intent, -[1041.26 --> 1041.92] willfully -[1041.92 --> 1043.30] desiring to -[1043.30 --> 1044.14] do the -[1044.14 --> 1044.52] will of -[1044.52 --> 1044.94] God -[1044.94 --> 1046.08] like Jesus -[1046.08 --> 1046.46] did. -[1048.08 --> 1049.00] Peter knows -[1049.00 --> 1049.56] this is not -[1049.56 --> 1049.96] an easy -[1049.96 --> 1050.32] thing. -[1051.46 --> 1052.16] It takes -[1052.16 --> 1052.92] a lot, -[1053.12 --> 1054.28] all of our -[1054.28 --> 1054.72] effort. -[1054.72 --> 1056.46] you know -[1056.46 --> 1056.90] how He -[1056.90 --> 1057.20] fully -[1057.20 --> 1057.76] intended -[1057.76 --> 1058.28] to follow -[1058.28 --> 1058.88] Christ -[1058.88 --> 1060.86] and how -[1060.86 --> 1061.46] He denied -[1061.46 --> 1061.70] Him -[1061.70 --> 1063.06] three times. -[1064.82 --> 1065.58] Isn't that -[1065.58 --> 1065.92] what it's -[1065.92 --> 1066.20] like? -[1066.76 --> 1067.48] Sometimes we -[1067.48 --> 1067.96] get up in -[1067.96 --> 1068.46] the morning, -[1069.86 --> 1071.00] every intent -[1071.00 --> 1072.68] to do -[1072.68 --> 1073.62] well that -[1073.62 --> 1074.06] day, -[1074.42 --> 1075.10] to be -[1075.10 --> 1076.02] self-controlled, -[1076.22 --> 1076.74] to handle -[1076.74 --> 1077.34] ourselves -[1077.34 --> 1078.20] perhaps in -[1078.20 --> 1079.06] a work -[1079.06 --> 1079.84] situation -[1079.84 --> 1080.66] better, -[1081.36 --> 1081.76] and then -[1081.76 --> 1082.10] we're -[1082.10 --> 1082.90] confronted -[1082.90 --> 1083.46] with a -[1083.46 --> 1083.82] rude -[1083.82 --> 1084.66] co-worker -[1084.66 --> 1085.38] or we're -[1085.38 --> 1085.84] dealt a -[1085.84 --> 1086.54] verbal blow -[1086.54 --> 1087.26] by someone -[1087.26 --> 1087.78] and before -[1087.78 --> 1088.22] you know -[1088.22 --> 1088.36] it, -[1088.56 --> 1088.80] we've -[1088.80 --> 1089.32] sunk to -[1089.32 --> 1089.50] their -[1089.50 --> 1089.78] level -[1089.78 --> 1089.96] of -[1089.96 --> 1090.40] behavior. -[1093.04 --> 1093.86] And that's -[1093.86 --> 1094.56] why Peter -[1094.56 --> 1095.74] recognizes that -[1095.74 --> 1096.72] this process -[1096.72 --> 1097.50] of spiritual -[1097.50 --> 1098.32] formation -[1098.32 --> 1098.84] is a -[1098.84 --> 1099.66] slow one. -[1101.16 --> 1101.64] It's the -[1101.64 --> 1102.44] arduous -[1102.44 --> 1103.92] life of -[1103.92 --> 1104.56] the Christian -[1104.56 --> 1105.80] where you -[1105.80 --> 1106.46] take one -[1106.46 --> 1107.28] step forward -[1107.28 --> 1107.88] and then the -[1107.88 --> 1108.42] next day you -[1108.42 --> 1109.16] feel like you've -[1109.16 --> 1109.90] taken, as we -[1109.90 --> 1110.12] say, -[1110.24 --> 1110.88] two back. -[1110.88 --> 1110.92] back. -[1113.44 --> 1114.12] And sometimes -[1114.12 --> 1114.76] when we've, so -[1114.76 --> 1115.44] to speak, taken -[1115.44 --> 1115.98] those two -[1115.98 --> 1116.92] steps back, it's -[1116.92 --> 1118.10] good to put -[1118.10 --> 1119.06] life back in -[1119.06 --> 1120.08] perspective again -[1120.08 --> 1120.66] and ask -[1120.66 --> 1122.06] ourselves, who -[1122.06 --> 1122.68] am I? -[1123.06 --> 1123.94] Why am I -[1123.94 --> 1124.40] here? -[1124.86 --> 1125.60] What am I -[1125.60 --> 1126.52] doing with my -[1126.52 --> 1127.00] life? -[1127.86 --> 1128.44] Let's see. -[1128.86 --> 1129.60] That's right. -[1130.68 --> 1131.58] I believe in -[1131.58 --> 1131.98] Jesus. -[1132.82 --> 1133.46] I know what -[1133.46 --> 1134.14] he's done for -[1134.14 --> 1134.82] me and I know -[1134.82 --> 1135.74] what he's calling -[1135.74 --> 1136.66] me to become -[1136.66 --> 1137.46] and what my -[1137.46 --> 1138.18] future is. -[1138.24 --> 1138.84] I need to put -[1138.84 --> 1139.66] my life in -[1139.66 --> 1140.68] that sense in -[1140.68 --> 1141.32] perspective. -[1141.52 --> 1142.90] One day I am -[1142.90 --> 1143.80] going to share -[1143.80 --> 1144.80] in his eternal -[1144.80 --> 1145.38] glory. -[1147.14 --> 1147.96] So what does -[1147.96 --> 1148.58] that mean for -[1148.58 --> 1149.00] today? -[1151.32 --> 1151.80] Well, it -[1151.80 --> 1152.48] means then I, -[1153.28 --> 1154.04] it's worth -[1154.04 --> 1154.84] taking that -[1154.84 --> 1156.16] next one -[1156.16 --> 1157.90] step of -[1157.90 --> 1159.04] obedience in -[1159.04 --> 1159.64] the right -[1159.64 --> 1161.04] direction. -[1161.94 --> 1162.70] And sometimes -[1162.70 --> 1163.86] those little -[1163.86 --> 1164.82] steps take -[1164.82 --> 1166.74] such big -[1166.74 --> 1167.58] effort. -[1170.66 --> 1171.68] But we're -[1171.68 --> 1172.78] eager to add -[1172.78 --> 1173.26] to our -[1173.26 --> 1173.70] faith. -[1175.02 --> 1176.00] So we make -[1176.00 --> 1176.70] that decision -[1176.70 --> 1177.48] and we take -[1177.48 --> 1178.06] that right -[1178.06 --> 1178.50] step. -[1180.52 --> 1181.28] It's -[1181.28 --> 1181.74] interesting, -[1181.90 --> 1182.20] the word -[1182.20 --> 1182.98] add there -[1182.98 --> 1184.56] in the -[1184.56 --> 1184.98] original -[1184.98 --> 1185.66] apparently -[1185.66 --> 1186.60] means to -[1186.60 --> 1188.20] provide the -[1188.20 --> 1189.58] chorus for. -[1190.14 --> 1190.74] You know, -[1191.26 --> 1191.84] this is the -[1191.84 --> 1192.32] backup. -[1193.30 --> 1193.82] That's what -[1193.82 --> 1194.18] it was. -[1194.18 --> 1194.82] The choral -[1194.82 --> 1195.26] backup. -[1195.50 --> 1196.48] Apparently the -[1196.48 --> 1197.00] Greeks who -[1197.00 --> 1197.80] loved plays -[1197.80 --> 1198.82] had choral -[1198.82 --> 1199.24] backup. -[1200.52 --> 1201.56] And very -[1201.56 --> 1203.68] rich people -[1203.68 --> 1205.42] would provide -[1205.42 --> 1206.54] that choral -[1206.54 --> 1207.30] backup. -[1207.80 --> 1208.22] And that was -[1208.22 --> 1208.86] called the -[1208.86 --> 1209.84] additives. -[1210.28 --> 1210.92] And that's the -[1210.92 --> 1211.54] meaning somewhat -[1211.54 --> 1212.10] of the word -[1212.10 --> 1212.26] here. -[1212.30 --> 1212.56] In other -[1212.56 --> 1212.76] words, -[1213.14 --> 1213.86] Christ is the -[1213.86 --> 1214.62] main singer -[1214.62 --> 1216.08] and as we -[1216.08 --> 1217.34] come behind -[1217.34 --> 1218.12] him, we -[1218.12 --> 1219.92] add to -[1219.92 --> 1220.84] our faith. -[1220.84 --> 1220.90] faith. -[1222.24 --> 1223.24] It came -[1223.24 --> 1223.70] to mean -[1223.70 --> 1224.80] giving -[1224.80 --> 1225.78] lavishly. -[1227.18 --> 1228.50] We're to -[1228.50 --> 1229.64] generously -[1229.64 --> 1230.76] add to -[1230.76 --> 1231.58] our faith. -[1232.64 --> 1233.04] And what -[1233.04 --> 1233.46] are we to -[1233.46 --> 1233.88] add? -[1234.36 --> 1235.00] These -[1235.00 --> 1236.40] various -[1236.40 --> 1237.86] attributes, -[1238.60 --> 1239.22] qualities. -[1240.30 --> 1240.70] So Peter -[1240.70 --> 1241.44] gives a list -[1241.44 --> 1242.18] of things -[1242.18 --> 1242.66] we might -[1242.66 --> 1244.34] add as -[1244.34 --> 1244.82] we choose -[1244.82 --> 1245.56] to do so. -[1245.56 --> 1247.10] For -[1247.10 --> 1247.48] example, -[1247.98 --> 1248.64] he talks -[1248.64 --> 1248.88] about -[1248.88 --> 1249.64] goodness. -[1250.90 --> 1251.40] That really -[1251.40 --> 1251.82] means -[1251.82 --> 1252.78] virtue. -[1254.38 --> 1255.30] For -[1255.30 --> 1256.18] moral -[1256.18 --> 1257.50] fortitude -[1257.50 --> 1258.88] or -[1258.88 --> 1260.56] power or -[1260.56 --> 1261.46] energy to -[1261.46 --> 1261.84] do the -[1261.84 --> 1262.48] right thing. -[1263.40 --> 1263.80] Or to -[1263.80 --> 1264.54] stir -[1264.54 --> 1265.58] ourselves up -[1265.58 --> 1266.50] and give -[1266.50 --> 1266.94] due -[1266.94 --> 1267.64] diligence -[1267.64 --> 1269.12] in becoming -[1269.12 --> 1269.94] a person -[1269.94 --> 1271.32] of noble -[1271.32 --> 1272.38] character. -[1273.22 --> 1273.44] A -[1273.44 --> 1274.72] virtuous, -[1274.72 --> 1276.18] a good -[1276.18 --> 1277.38] person. -[1278.22 --> 1278.72] Add that -[1278.72 --> 1279.12] to your -[1279.12 --> 1279.48] faith. -[1280.28 --> 1280.92] Because -[1280.92 --> 1281.76] often we -[1281.76 --> 1282.28] believers -[1282.28 --> 1284.38] aren't always -[1284.38 --> 1284.90] so good. -[1286.26 --> 1287.08] And to -[1287.08 --> 1287.52] goodness -[1287.52 --> 1288.26] add -[1288.26 --> 1289.38] knowledge. -[1289.76 --> 1290.04] Now he's -[1290.04 --> 1290.56] been talking -[1290.56 --> 1290.92] about -[1290.92 --> 1291.84] knowledge and -[1291.84 --> 1292.56] that's part -[1292.56 --> 1292.96] of what's -[1292.96 --> 1293.42] involved, -[1293.54 --> 1294.60] this knowing -[1294.60 --> 1295.48] of Christ -[1295.48 --> 1295.88] and who -[1295.88 --> 1296.42] he is. -[1296.50 --> 1297.00] But also -[1297.00 --> 1297.84] part of -[1297.84 --> 1298.40] that knowledge -[1298.40 --> 1299.40] is practical -[1299.40 --> 1300.46] insights. -[1300.74 --> 1301.12] The more -[1301.12 --> 1301.66] you work -[1301.66 --> 1302.42] at something, -[1303.42 --> 1304.18] the more -[1304.18 --> 1304.92] you discover -[1304.92 --> 1305.96] the ins -[1305.96 --> 1306.66] and outs -[1306.66 --> 1307.46] of it. -[1307.78 --> 1308.30] And that's -[1308.30 --> 1308.58] what's -[1308.58 --> 1308.94] meant. -[1310.34 --> 1310.72] Keep -[1310.72 --> 1311.24] gaining -[1311.24 --> 1312.10] practical -[1312.10 --> 1312.88] insight -[1312.88 --> 1313.74] in how -[1313.74 --> 1314.72] to work -[1314.72 --> 1315.80] out your -[1315.80 --> 1316.32] faith -[1316.32 --> 1317.14] in your -[1317.14 --> 1317.66] setting. -[1319.36 --> 1319.60] You know, -[1319.80 --> 1320.46] learn those, -[1320.64 --> 1321.66] as Dallas -[1321.66 --> 1322.26] Willard says, -[1322.38 --> 1323.50] tricks of the -[1323.50 --> 1324.16] trade -[1324.16 --> 1325.26] in being a -[1325.26 --> 1325.74] disciple. -[1325.74 --> 1325.84] people. -[1328.40 --> 1328.86] Now all -[1328.86 --> 1329.20] these -[1329.20 --> 1331.04] attributes -[1331.04 --> 1331.76] are really -[1331.76 --> 1332.70] inside -[1332.70 --> 1333.72] things that -[1333.72 --> 1334.40] we're talking -[1334.40 --> 1335.18] about because -[1335.18 --> 1336.24] the vast -[1336.24 --> 1336.96] majority of -[1336.96 --> 1337.38] the work -[1337.38 --> 1337.80] that we -[1337.80 --> 1338.30] need to -[1338.30 --> 1339.20] do is -[1339.20 --> 1339.96] inside of -[1339.96 --> 1340.34] us. -[1341.34 --> 1342.10] Like -[1342.10 --> 1343.02] self-control. -[1344.46 --> 1345.24] In other -[1345.24 --> 1345.38] words, -[1345.74 --> 1346.82] watch out -[1346.82 --> 1347.96] for your -[1347.96 --> 1348.66] own -[1348.66 --> 1349.42] soul, -[1349.90 --> 1350.40] spiritual -[1350.40 --> 1351.04] well-being. -[1352.14 --> 1352.72] Manage -[1352.72 --> 1353.26] your -[1353.26 --> 1354.12] feelings -[1354.12 --> 1355.00] well. -[1355.98 --> 1356.46] Accept -[1356.46 --> 1356.82] them for -[1356.82 --> 1357.24] what they -[1357.24 --> 1357.62] are, -[1358.62 --> 1359.34] and then -[1359.34 --> 1360.34] practice -[1360.34 --> 1361.42] self-discipline -[1361.42 --> 1362.40] as you -[1362.40 --> 1363.40] respond to -[1363.40 --> 1364.28] what's -[1364.28 --> 1364.78] happening -[1364.78 --> 1365.70] inside of -[1365.70 --> 1367.04] you in -[1367.04 --> 1368.08] healthy ways. -[1368.28 --> 1368.84] It takes a -[1368.84 --> 1369.34] lot of -[1369.34 --> 1370.58] self-discipline, -[1370.66 --> 1371.18] or what some -[1371.18 --> 1371.84] have called -[1371.84 --> 1373.32] self-leadership. -[1373.32 --> 1374.32] self-discipline. -[1375.70 --> 1376.42] And that -[1376.42 --> 1376.90] takes -[1376.90 --> 1377.70] perseverance. -[1380.38 --> 1381.28] I come, -[1381.44 --> 1382.04] as I think -[1382.04 --> 1382.34] a number -[1382.34 --> 1382.60] of you -[1382.60 --> 1383.60] from Dutch -[1383.60 --> 1384.10] background, -[1384.24 --> 1384.62] we're known -[1384.62 --> 1384.98] to be -[1384.98 --> 1385.36] stubborn. -[1385.52 --> 1385.98] This is a -[1385.98 --> 1386.44] great way -[1386.44 --> 1386.76] to be -[1386.76 --> 1387.14] stubborn. -[1388.66 --> 1389.14] Persevere -[1389.14 --> 1390.60] at working -[1390.60 --> 1391.38] at these -[1391.38 --> 1392.18] heart issues -[1392.18 --> 1394.52] in spite -[1394.52 --> 1395.20] of obstacles -[1395.20 --> 1395.76] that come -[1395.76 --> 1396.14] along. -[1397.52 --> 1398.18] It takes -[1398.18 --> 1398.98] courage -[1398.98 --> 1400.16] and endurance -[1400.16 --> 1401.34] to keep -[1401.34 --> 1402.70] stepping over -[1402.70 --> 1403.80] these stones -[1403.80 --> 1404.68] that are -[1404.68 --> 1405.20] put in -[1405.20 --> 1405.78] our path -[1405.78 --> 1406.28] or happen -[1406.28 --> 1406.68] to be -[1406.68 --> 1407.02] there. -[1408.22 --> 1408.70] But we -[1408.70 --> 1409.14] do it, -[1409.22 --> 1409.74] says Peter, -[1409.86 --> 1410.76] we persevere -[1410.76 --> 1413.12] because Christ -[1413.12 --> 1413.98] calls us -[1413.98 --> 1415.30] to godliness. -[1416.70 --> 1417.08] Again, -[1417.28 --> 1418.34] really that's -[1418.34 --> 1418.88] the ultimate -[1418.88 --> 1419.44] goal. -[1419.60 --> 1420.06] This is the -[1420.06 --> 1420.38] vision, -[1420.80 --> 1421.82] to be like -[1421.82 --> 1422.44] Christ, -[1423.58 --> 1424.04] like we -[1424.04 --> 1424.42] were in -[1424.42 --> 1425.00] the beginning. -[1426.24 --> 1427.12] God simply -[1427.12 --> 1427.64] through his -[1427.64 --> 1428.00] spirit -[1428.00 --> 1428.98] retrofitting -[1428.98 --> 1430.20] us back -[1430.20 --> 1431.24] into the -[1431.24 --> 1431.92] person of -[1431.92 --> 1432.50] Christ. -[1432.70 --> 1434.06] a godly -[1434.06 --> 1435.28] person. -[1437.62 --> 1438.28] On top -[1438.28 --> 1438.66] of that, -[1438.72 --> 1439.10] he says, -[1439.22 --> 1439.74] make every -[1439.74 --> 1440.36] effort to -[1440.36 --> 1442.14] show mutual -[1442.14 --> 1443.56] affection, -[1444.32 --> 1445.74] to be -[1445.74 --> 1446.34] warm -[1446.34 --> 1448.36] and friendly -[1448.36 --> 1450.04] to everyone, -[1450.30 --> 1451.14] but especially -[1451.14 --> 1452.06] to those -[1452.06 --> 1453.48] in the -[1453.48 --> 1453.96] family -[1453.96 --> 1455.30] of God. -[1456.74 --> 1457.46] My, -[1457.56 --> 1458.04] that goes -[1458.04 --> 1458.58] a long -[1458.58 --> 1460.16] way in -[1460.16 --> 1460.92] making for -[1460.92 --> 1461.56] a very -[1461.56 --> 1462.34] healthy -[1462.34 --> 1463.02] church -[1463.02 --> 1463.92] body, -[1464.92 --> 1465.52] mutual -[1465.52 --> 1466.76] affection. -[1468.12 --> 1468.92] And the -[1468.92 --> 1469.58] greatest of -[1469.58 --> 1470.26] all virtues, -[1470.42 --> 1471.32] whenever we -[1471.32 --> 1472.40] hear them -[1472.40 --> 1473.58] listed in -[1473.58 --> 1474.56] various parts, -[1474.80 --> 1475.30] particularly -[1475.30 --> 1476.42] of the New -[1476.42 --> 1477.02] Testament, -[1477.80 --> 1479.12] is the call, -[1479.60 --> 1480.34] which is at the -[1480.34 --> 1480.92] core of what -[1480.92 --> 1481.56] we're to be, -[1481.74 --> 1482.28] the call -[1482.28 --> 1483.38] to love, -[1483.38 --> 1486.12] to love the -[1486.12 --> 1486.60] Lord our -[1486.60 --> 1487.14] God, -[1488.90 --> 1489.70] with all our -[1489.70 --> 1490.48] heart, -[1490.90 --> 1491.40] soul, -[1492.06 --> 1492.50] mind, -[1492.60 --> 1493.52] and strength. -[1494.56 --> 1494.90] Boy, -[1494.96 --> 1495.62] there's a life -[1495.62 --> 1496.66] goal I find -[1496.66 --> 1498.12] that I'll never -[1498.12 --> 1499.00] be done with. -[1499.96 --> 1501.12] To love our -[1501.12 --> 1502.48] neighbor as -[1502.48 --> 1503.18] ourself. -[1505.12 --> 1506.36] Without love, -[1506.36 --> 1508.46] all those -[1508.46 --> 1509.24] other virtues -[1509.24 --> 1511.16] become vices. -[1512.38 --> 1513.58] If we're not -[1513.58 --> 1514.18] a loving -[1514.18 --> 1515.54] person, -[1516.52 --> 1517.32] then we -[1517.32 --> 1517.74] can do -[1517.74 --> 1518.16] good and -[1518.16 --> 1518.58] all those -[1518.58 --> 1519.50] things for -[1519.50 --> 1520.56] selfish reasons. -[1521.32 --> 1522.12] But if we're -[1522.12 --> 1523.18] truly loving, -[1524.92 --> 1525.62] then these -[1525.62 --> 1526.14] virtues, -[1527.18 --> 1527.60] these -[1527.60 --> 1528.96] attributes, -[1529.70 --> 1530.20] come out -[1530.20 --> 1530.66] of us -[1530.66 --> 1532.18] with integrity -[1532.18 --> 1534.18] as part -[1534.18 --> 1534.60] of our -[1534.60 --> 1535.52] pursuit -[1535.52 --> 1536.30] of what it -[1536.30 --> 1536.80] is to -[1536.80 --> 1537.20] live in -[1537.20 --> 1537.68] Christ. -[1540.16 --> 1541.12] Love keeps -[1541.12 --> 1541.94] our motivation -[1541.94 --> 1542.66] pure. -[1546.70 --> 1547.26] Well, -[1547.58 --> 1548.50] there's a lot -[1548.50 --> 1549.12] to work on, -[1549.16 --> 1549.58] isn't there? -[1550.18 --> 1550.84] Maybe you're -[1550.84 --> 1551.68] getting tired -[1551.68 --> 1553.04] just thinking -[1553.04 --> 1553.62] about all -[1553.62 --> 1554.04] this, -[1555.22 --> 1555.62] kind of -[1555.62 --> 1556.04] tempting -[1556.04 --> 1557.72] to give -[1557.72 --> 1559.24] up and -[1559.24 --> 1559.90] go on a -[1559.90 --> 1560.96] long vacation. -[1562.88 --> 1563.56] And so -[1563.56 --> 1564.10] for added -[1564.10 --> 1564.76] motivation, -[1564.96 --> 1565.46] Peter gives -[1565.46 --> 1565.88] a number -[1565.88 --> 1566.68] of reasons -[1566.68 --> 1568.80] for adding -[1568.80 --> 1569.32] to these -[1569.32 --> 1569.82] qualities. -[1570.06 --> 1570.54] He says -[1570.54 --> 1571.20] in verse -[1571.20 --> 1571.58] 8, -[1571.66 --> 1572.00] if you -[1572.00 --> 1573.38] possess -[1573.38 --> 1574.06] these -[1574.06 --> 1574.84] qualities -[1574.84 --> 1576.66] in -[1576.66 --> 1577.38] increasing -[1577.38 --> 1578.10] measure, -[1578.32 --> 1580.30] we're -[1580.30 --> 1580.82] working at -[1580.82 --> 1581.22] this, -[1582.26 --> 1582.52] they'll -[1582.52 --> 1583.16] keep you -[1583.16 --> 1583.74] from being -[1583.74 --> 1584.46] ineffective -[1584.46 --> 1585.56] and unproductive -[1585.56 --> 1586.06] in your -[1586.06 --> 1587.08] knowledge of -[1587.08 --> 1587.52] our Lord -[1587.52 --> 1588.54] Jesus Christ. -[1590.30 --> 1590.86] It helps -[1590.86 --> 1591.28] to keep -[1591.28 --> 1592.10] in mind -[1592.10 --> 1593.14] that we -[1593.14 --> 1594.04] possess it -[1594.04 --> 1594.80] in increasing -[1594.80 --> 1595.54] measure, -[1595.72 --> 1596.40] that we're -[1596.40 --> 1596.86] making -[1596.86 --> 1597.76] slow, -[1597.96 --> 1598.34] often -[1598.34 --> 1599.20] incremental -[1599.20 --> 1600.44] change, -[1600.54 --> 1600.98] and so we -[1600.98 --> 1601.38] need to be -[1601.38 --> 1602.12] gracious and -[1602.12 --> 1602.78] patient with -[1602.78 --> 1603.84] ourselves, -[1604.62 --> 1605.26] because negative -[1605.26 --> 1606.14] habits rarely -[1606.14 --> 1606.76] go away -[1606.76 --> 1607.30] overnight. -[1607.46 --> 1607.74] It does -[1607.74 --> 1608.20] happen. -[1608.92 --> 1609.52] I preached -[1609.52 --> 1610.04] this sermon -[1610.04 --> 1610.68] in Ladner, -[1610.74 --> 1611.20] and a lady -[1611.20 --> 1612.00] came up to me -[1612.00 --> 1612.28] and she -[1612.28 --> 1612.96] talked to me -[1612.96 --> 1613.56] about how -[1613.56 --> 1614.44] the Holy -[1614.44 --> 1615.30] Spirit gave -[1615.30 --> 1615.92] her a vision -[1615.92 --> 1616.80] and her -[1616.80 --> 1618.30] addiction to -[1618.30 --> 1619.30] alcohol was -[1619.30 --> 1619.86] gone. -[1620.96 --> 1621.56] Been many -[1621.56 --> 1622.14] years later, -[1622.42 --> 1623.32] never again -[1623.32 --> 1624.06] had a desire. -[1624.24 --> 1624.44] Well, -[1624.58 --> 1625.40] that's rare. -[1626.14 --> 1626.74] Most often -[1626.74 --> 1628.60] we have to -[1628.60 --> 1630.10] work really -[1630.10 --> 1631.14] hard, -[1631.98 --> 1632.66] and we -[1632.66 --> 1633.82] possess these -[1633.82 --> 1634.76] qualities in -[1634.76 --> 1636.00] increasing -[1636.00 --> 1637.32] measure, -[1638.74 --> 1639.78] daily turning -[1639.78 --> 1640.62] to Christ, -[1640.78 --> 1641.40] taking up -[1641.40 --> 1642.18] our cross, -[1643.02 --> 1643.52] deciding -[1643.52 --> 1644.04] again, -[1644.44 --> 1645.58] take the -[1645.58 --> 1646.20] right step. -[1647.26 --> 1648.18] And as we -[1648.18 --> 1649.22] put good -[1649.22 --> 1650.54] energy into -[1650.54 --> 1651.50] this maturing -[1651.50 --> 1652.46] process, -[1653.10 --> 1653.76] says Peter, -[1654.12 --> 1654.70] we'll see -[1654.70 --> 1655.34] results. -[1656.60 --> 1657.30] You'll see -[1657.30 --> 1657.94] results. -[1659.72 --> 1660.56] It'll keep -[1660.56 --> 1660.92] you from -[1660.92 --> 1662.30] being ineffective -[1662.30 --> 1663.88] and unproductive -[1663.88 --> 1665.58] in our faith. -[1667.28 --> 1668.10] So keep -[1668.10 --> 1668.66] at it. -[1669.36 --> 1669.76] And then, -[1671.44 --> 1672.38] it's good to -[1672.38 --> 1672.70] see the -[1672.70 --> 1673.58] negative side. -[1673.58 --> 1674.54] if you're -[1674.54 --> 1674.76] going to -[1674.76 --> 1675.80] choose not -[1675.80 --> 1676.38] to work -[1676.38 --> 1676.92] at that -[1676.92 --> 1677.74] and settle -[1677.74 --> 1678.18] for the -[1678.18 --> 1679.10] status quo, -[1679.90 --> 1680.18] in other -[1680.18 --> 1680.36] words, -[1680.48 --> 1681.56] if you're -[1681.56 --> 1681.92] the kind -[1681.92 --> 1682.26] that says, -[1682.40 --> 1682.98] I believe -[1682.98 --> 1683.58] that's enough, -[1683.66 --> 1684.00] it'll get -[1684.00 --> 1684.44] me in. -[1685.72 --> 1686.46] You should -[1686.46 --> 1687.20] know then, -[1688.20 --> 1690.14] as Peter -[1690.14 --> 1690.64] says in -[1690.64 --> 1691.26] verse 9, -[1691.92 --> 1692.28] whoever -[1692.28 --> 1693.42] doesn't -[1693.42 --> 1694.56] have or -[1694.56 --> 1695.60] work at -[1695.60 --> 1696.52] these -[1696.52 --> 1697.34] additives -[1697.34 --> 1698.04] isn't -[1698.04 --> 1698.88] interested in -[1698.88 --> 1699.40] adding to -[1699.40 --> 1700.02] their faith. -[1700.02 --> 1700.82] they're -[1700.82 --> 1701.72] near-sighted, -[1702.08 --> 1703.32] they're -[1703.32 --> 1703.82] blind, -[1704.50 --> 1705.18] they've -[1705.18 --> 1705.60] forgotten, -[1706.40 --> 1706.88] they've -[1706.88 --> 1707.08] been -[1707.08 --> 1707.78] cleansed -[1707.78 --> 1708.52] from their -[1708.52 --> 1709.48] past sins. -[1711.48 --> 1712.52] That's a -[1712.52 --> 1713.08] little bit in -[1713.08 --> 1713.66] our face, -[1713.72 --> 1714.22] isn't it? -[1715.98 --> 1717.34] A Christian -[1717.34 --> 1718.76] who no -[1718.76 --> 1719.36] longer -[1719.36 --> 1720.54] intends -[1720.54 --> 1721.52] to grow -[1721.52 --> 1723.72] in Christ -[1723.72 --> 1724.84] has done -[1724.84 --> 1725.68] two things. -[1725.68 --> 1727.24] they've -[1727.24 --> 1727.66] lost -[1727.66 --> 1728.18] sight -[1728.18 --> 1728.96] of the -[1728.96 --> 1729.46] future -[1729.46 --> 1730.06] that -[1730.06 --> 1730.52] Christ -[1730.52 --> 1731.12] offers, -[1731.90 --> 1733.28] and -[1733.28 --> 1733.86] secondly, -[1734.06 --> 1734.42] they have -[1734.42 --> 1734.94] forgotten -[1734.94 --> 1735.60] that their -[1735.60 --> 1736.02] sinful -[1736.02 --> 1736.74] past -[1736.74 --> 1737.86] has been -[1737.86 --> 1738.38] covered -[1738.38 --> 1739.26] by the -[1739.26 --> 1739.48] blood -[1739.48 --> 1740.14] of Christ. -[1742.64 --> 1743.60] Failure -[1743.60 --> 1744.80] to pursue -[1744.80 --> 1746.10] spiritual -[1746.10 --> 1746.80] growth -[1746.80 --> 1748.20] or maturity -[1748.20 --> 1749.48] is a sign -[1749.48 --> 1750.40] we've -[1750.40 --> 1750.92] lost -[1750.92 --> 1752.14] the vision -[1752.14 --> 1753.32] and we've -[1753.32 --> 1753.80] forgotten -[1753.80 --> 1755.02] who we -[1755.02 --> 1755.96] were or -[1755.96 --> 1756.44] might have -[1756.44 --> 1756.78] been -[1756.78 --> 1757.52] without -[1757.52 --> 1758.16] Christ. -[1759.72 --> 1761.02] Because it's -[1761.02 --> 1761.40] again, -[1761.56 --> 1762.40] not possible -[1762.40 --> 1764.06] to embrace -[1764.06 --> 1765.16] a holy -[1765.16 --> 1765.82] Christ -[1765.82 --> 1767.14] and not -[1767.14 --> 1767.92] want -[1767.92 --> 1769.18] to be -[1769.18 --> 1769.50] holy. -[1771.10 --> 1772.14] That's -[1772.14 --> 1772.52] God's -[1772.52 --> 1772.84] goal -[1772.84 --> 1773.96] and he -[1773.96 --> 1774.16] will -[1774.16 --> 1774.62] accomplish -[1774.62 --> 1774.96] it. -[1776.10 --> 1776.80] A -[1776.80 --> 1777.26] Christian -[1777.26 --> 1777.90] who could -[1777.90 --> 1779.06] care less -[1779.06 --> 1779.68] about -[1779.68 --> 1780.46] furnishing -[1780.46 --> 1781.52] or filling -[1781.52 --> 1782.22] out -[1782.22 --> 1783.18] their -[1783.18 --> 1783.66] faith -[1783.66 --> 1784.16] life -[1784.16 --> 1784.72] has -[1784.72 --> 1785.28] forgotten -[1785.28 --> 1786.22] about -[1786.22 --> 1786.58] the -[1786.58 --> 1787.84] extravagant -[1787.84 --> 1788.48] grace -[1788.48 --> 1789.62] of God -[1789.62 --> 1790.20] that -[1790.20 --> 1791.34] invited us -[1791.34 --> 1792.18] into this -[1792.18 --> 1792.96] amazing -[1792.96 --> 1793.74] kingdom -[1793.74 --> 1794.70] of his. -[1798.40 --> 1799.24] Alcoholics -[1799.24 --> 1799.70] Anonymous -[1799.70 --> 1800.56] has grasped -[1800.56 --> 1801.30] the significance -[1801.30 --> 1801.86] of this -[1801.86 --> 1802.26] teaching. -[1802.42 --> 1802.80] They have a -[1802.80 --> 1803.54] sixth step -[1803.54 --> 1804.48] and here's -[1804.48 --> 1804.94] the sixth -[1804.94 --> 1805.28] step -[1805.28 --> 1805.86] of AA. -[1805.86 --> 1806.04] AA. -[1807.80 --> 1808.98] We are -[1808.98 --> 1809.88] entirely -[1809.88 --> 1811.24] ready to -[1811.24 --> 1812.12] have God -[1812.12 --> 1813.60] remove all -[1813.60 --> 1814.72] these defects -[1814.72 --> 1815.84] of character. -[1817.70 --> 1818.58] Want to -[1818.58 --> 1819.08] join AA? -[1819.68 --> 1820.26] Oh my. -[1820.60 --> 1820.92] We are -[1820.92 --> 1822.06] entirely ready -[1822.06 --> 1822.80] to have God -[1822.80 --> 1823.84] remove all -[1823.84 --> 1824.64] these defects -[1824.64 --> 1825.28] of character. -[1827.36 --> 1827.76] And then -[1827.76 --> 1828.12] they have a -[1828.12 --> 1828.60] little paragraph -[1828.60 --> 1829.84] of explanation -[1829.84 --> 1830.50] in this book -[1830.50 --> 1831.18] I have at home. -[1831.54 --> 1832.32] It explains, -[1832.32 --> 1833.44] it seems -[1833.44 --> 1834.48] plain that -[1834.48 --> 1835.38] few of us -[1835.38 --> 1836.12] can quickly -[1836.12 --> 1836.92] or easily -[1836.92 --> 1837.78] become ready -[1837.78 --> 1838.64] to aim -[1838.64 --> 1839.84] at spiritual -[1839.84 --> 1840.70] and moral -[1840.70 --> 1841.54] perfection. -[1842.78 --> 1843.82] We want -[1843.82 --> 1844.46] to settle -[1844.46 --> 1845.60] for only -[1845.60 --> 1846.32] as much -[1846.32 --> 1847.12] perfection -[1847.12 --> 1848.60] as will -[1848.60 --> 1849.48] get us -[1849.48 --> 1850.20] by -[1850.20 --> 1851.42] in life -[1851.42 --> 1852.32] according -[1852.32 --> 1853.08] of course -[1853.08 --> 1853.80] to our -[1853.80 --> 1854.54] various and -[1854.54 --> 1855.48] sundry ideas -[1855.48 --> 1856.06] of what will -[1856.06 --> 1856.48] get us -[1856.48 --> 1856.84] by. -[1857.44 --> 1858.34] So the -[1858.34 --> 1858.76] difference -[1858.76 --> 1859.32] between, -[1859.72 --> 1860.02] pardon their -[1860.02 --> 1860.46] language, -[1860.62 --> 1861.12] the difference -[1861.12 --> 1861.80] between the -[1861.80 --> 1862.74] boys and -[1862.74 --> 1863.32] the men -[1863.32 --> 1864.00] is the -[1864.00 --> 1864.44] difference -[1864.44 --> 1864.94] between -[1864.94 --> 1865.64] striving -[1865.64 --> 1866.58] for a -[1866.58 --> 1868.08] self-determined -[1868.08 --> 1868.86] objective -[1868.86 --> 1869.82] and for -[1869.82 --> 1870.72] the perfect -[1870.72 --> 1871.42] objective -[1871.42 --> 1872.44] which is -[1872.44 --> 1873.12] of God, -[1873.44 --> 1874.04] which is -[1874.04 --> 1874.60] Christ, -[1874.82 --> 1875.36] who is -[1875.36 --> 1875.90] our vision. -[1880.26 --> 1880.90] Negative -[1880.90 --> 1881.46] side. -[1881.62 --> 1881.96] If you -[1881.96 --> 1882.44] don't work -[1882.44 --> 1882.88] at it, -[1883.96 --> 1884.60] you've -[1884.60 --> 1885.04] lost your -[1885.04 --> 1885.38] vision. -[1886.80 --> 1887.48] Peter adds -[1887.48 --> 1887.96] three more -[1887.96 --> 1888.84] positive reasons -[1888.84 --> 1889.18] and then -[1889.18 --> 1889.60] we're done. -[1890.02 --> 1890.36] And I -[1890.36 --> 1890.76] won't dwell -[1890.76 --> 1891.30] long on -[1891.30 --> 1891.50] them. -[1893.00 --> 1893.90] But three -[1893.90 --> 1894.60] more positive -[1894.60 --> 1895.22] reasons for -[1895.22 --> 1896.08] being intentional -[1896.08 --> 1896.78] about adding -[1896.78 --> 1897.46] to our -[1897.46 --> 1897.82] faith. -[1898.44 --> 1898.76] In verse -[1898.76 --> 1899.14] 10 and -[1899.14 --> 1899.46] 11, -[1899.56 --> 1900.00] my brothers -[1900.00 --> 1900.60] and sisters -[1900.60 --> 1901.28] make every -[1901.28 --> 1902.66] effort to -[1902.66 --> 1903.80] confirm your -[1903.80 --> 1904.64] calling and -[1904.64 --> 1905.22] election. -[1905.66 --> 1905.86] Boy, -[1905.94 --> 1906.24] we could -[1906.24 --> 1906.96] talk long -[1906.96 --> 1907.98] about that. -[1908.48 --> 1909.10] Because if -[1909.10 --> 1909.50] you do -[1909.50 --> 1910.42] these things, -[1910.46 --> 1911.20] you'll never -[1911.20 --> 1913.24] stumble and -[1913.24 --> 1913.70] you will -[1913.70 --> 1914.46] receive a -[1914.46 --> 1915.32] rich welcome -[1915.32 --> 1916.12] into the -[1916.12 --> 1916.64] eternal -[1916.64 --> 1917.94] kingdom of -[1917.94 --> 1918.50] our Lord -[1918.50 --> 1919.22] and Savior -[1919.22 --> 1920.44] Jesus Christ. -[1921.18 --> 1921.74] Verse 10 -[1921.74 --> 1922.24] and 11. -[1922.56 --> 1923.16] So adding -[1923.16 --> 1923.78] to our -[1923.78 --> 1924.40] faith does -[1924.40 --> 1924.92] these three -[1924.92 --> 1925.46] things. -[1926.26 --> 1927.84] It confirms -[1927.84 --> 1929.56] in us -[1929.56 --> 1930.76] that the -[1930.76 --> 1931.30] sovereign -[1931.30 --> 1932.84] electing God -[1932.84 --> 1934.10] is actually -[1934.10 --> 1934.94] at work -[1934.94 --> 1935.42] in us. -[1936.42 --> 1936.82] You know, -[1936.88 --> 1937.36] when you get -[1937.36 --> 1938.02] in the game -[1938.02 --> 1938.52] and you go -[1938.52 --> 1939.02] around the -[1939.02 --> 1939.92] bases once, -[1940.06 --> 1940.90] you know -[1940.90 --> 1941.34] you're on -[1941.34 --> 1941.80] the team. -[1943.86 --> 1944.58] It will -[1944.58 --> 1945.24] keep us -[1945.24 --> 1945.70] secondly -[1945.70 --> 1946.82] from stumbling -[1946.82 --> 1947.92] in our -[1947.92 --> 1948.46] walk with -[1948.46 --> 1949.60] God and -[1949.60 --> 1950.32] thirdly, -[1950.32 --> 1950.98] will lead -[1950.98 --> 1951.74] to a warm -[1951.74 --> 1952.36] welcome -[1952.36 --> 1954.28] into God's -[1954.28 --> 1955.14] eternal -[1955.14 --> 1955.94] kingdom. -[1958.94 --> 1959.58] See, -[1959.74 --> 1960.38] what God -[1960.38 --> 1961.40] does and -[1961.40 --> 1962.24] what we do -[1962.24 --> 1962.70] are meant -[1962.70 --> 1963.46] to complement -[1963.46 --> 1964.28] each other. -[1964.40 --> 1964.78] I remember -[1964.78 --> 1965.38] our history -[1965.38 --> 1966.16] professor when -[1966.16 --> 1966.82] he was talking -[1966.82 --> 1967.34] about the -[1967.34 --> 1968.46] debates in -[1968.46 --> 1968.98] the church, -[1969.44 --> 1969.80] you know, -[1969.92 --> 1971.22] about man -[1971.22 --> 1971.74] and God -[1971.74 --> 1972.12] and what's -[1972.12 --> 1972.68] the balance. -[1972.78 --> 1973.08] He would -[1973.08 --> 1973.64] say it's -[1973.64 --> 1974.98] not 50-50, -[1975.16 --> 1976.00] it's 100% -[1976.00 --> 1977.12] and 100%. -[1977.12 --> 1980.40] God draws -[1980.40 --> 1980.80] us, -[1981.18 --> 1981.80] calls us -[1981.80 --> 1982.54] to himself -[1982.54 --> 1983.34] through the -[1983.34 --> 1983.86] good and -[1983.86 --> 1984.90] glorious person -[1984.90 --> 1985.98] of Christ. -[1986.12 --> 1986.60] He's the -[1986.60 --> 1987.60] proactive -[1987.60 --> 1989.10] initiator -[1989.10 --> 1990.06] of all -[1990.06 --> 1990.68] of this -[1990.68 --> 1991.20] redemption -[1991.20 --> 1992.06] and we -[1992.06 --> 1992.74] are to be -[1992.74 --> 1993.42] the fully -[1993.42 --> 1994.42] reactive -[1994.42 --> 1995.76] responders -[1995.76 --> 1997.12] to what -[1997.12 --> 1997.76] God has -[1997.76 --> 1998.38] done for -[1998.38 --> 1999.14] us by -[1999.14 --> 1999.76] believing -[1999.76 --> 2000.40] in Jesus -[2000.40 --> 2001.44] and then -[2001.44 --> 2001.88] following -[2001.88 --> 2002.28] him, -[2003.32 --> 2003.78] fully -[2003.78 --> 2004.46] intent -[2004.46 --> 2005.44] on adding -[2005.44 --> 2006.22] these qualities. -[2007.62 --> 2008.14] And when -[2008.14 --> 2008.64] we do -[2008.64 --> 2009.04] that, -[2009.50 --> 2010.70] it confirms -[2010.70 --> 2011.70] God's -[2011.70 --> 2012.42] at work -[2012.42 --> 2012.94] in us, -[2013.42 --> 2014.12] we're tracking -[2014.12 --> 2014.72] with him, -[2015.36 --> 2015.74] he's got -[2015.74 --> 2016.36] our destiny -[2016.36 --> 2017.00] in mind. -[2018.42 --> 2019.18] And the -[2019.18 --> 2019.72] more we -[2019.72 --> 2021.00] apply ourselves, -[2021.22 --> 2021.64] the more -[2021.64 --> 2022.80] we become -[2022.80 --> 2023.50] confident, -[2024.50 --> 2025.62] the more -[2025.62 --> 2026.26] you practice -[2026.26 --> 2026.98] your faith -[2026.98 --> 2027.48] like with -[2027.48 --> 2028.24] anything else. -[2028.24 --> 2029.76] The more -[2029.76 --> 2030.30] you play -[2030.30 --> 2031.06] baseball or -[2031.06 --> 2031.56] basketball, -[2031.76 --> 2032.12] the better -[2032.12 --> 2032.62] you get -[2032.62 --> 2033.40] at it. -[2033.84 --> 2034.74] The stronger -[2034.74 --> 2035.54] you become, -[2035.66 --> 2036.04] the less -[2036.04 --> 2036.66] likely you -[2036.66 --> 2037.02] are to -[2037.02 --> 2038.02] make mistakes. -[2039.94 --> 2040.88] The less -[2040.88 --> 2041.52] likely we -[2041.52 --> 2042.06] will fall -[2042.06 --> 2042.44] in our -[2042.44 --> 2043.18] Christian life, -[2043.26 --> 2043.90] the more -[2043.90 --> 2044.38] we work -[2044.38 --> 2044.88] at it. -[2045.44 --> 2046.12] And then -[2046.12 --> 2047.04] as our -[2047.04 --> 2047.76] day draws -[2047.76 --> 2048.14] near, -[2049.44 --> 2051.86] and COVID -[2051.86 --> 2052.44] comes, -[2052.44 --> 2053.16] death -[2053.16 --> 2053.70] threatens, -[2053.70 --> 2055.96] we get -[2055.96 --> 2056.60] assured in -[2056.60 --> 2057.16] our heart -[2057.16 --> 2058.44] that it -[2058.44 --> 2058.94] doesn't matter -[2058.94 --> 2059.56] what happens, -[2059.60 --> 2060.14] in the end, -[2060.24 --> 2060.78] we've got a -[2060.78 --> 2061.94] warm welcome -[2061.94 --> 2063.02] for us -[2063.02 --> 2064.22] from our -[2064.22 --> 2064.62] God -[2064.62 --> 2065.62] into an -[2065.62 --> 2065.98] eternal -[2065.98 --> 2066.42] home. -[2067.42 --> 2068.10] And the -[2068.10 --> 2068.52] more we -[2068.52 --> 2068.88] pursue -[2068.88 --> 2069.42] Christ, -[2069.54 --> 2069.82] the more -[2069.82 --> 2070.74] this deep -[2070.74 --> 2071.24] hope -[2071.24 --> 2072.60] gets planted -[2072.60 --> 2073.12] in our -[2073.12 --> 2073.50] soul -[2073.50 --> 2075.88] that I, -[2076.12 --> 2076.36] we, -[2076.56 --> 2077.10] will be -[2077.10 --> 2077.60] welcomed -[2077.60 --> 2078.12] home -[2078.12 --> 2079.18] someday. -[2079.18 --> 2081.32] pray with -[2081.32 --> 2081.60] me. -[2083.46 --> 2084.26] Lord, -[2084.36 --> 2084.76] your word -[2084.76 --> 2085.90] reminds us -[2085.90 --> 2086.84] and your -[2086.84 --> 2087.36] sacrament -[2087.36 --> 2088.38] will soon -[2088.38 --> 2089.08] confirm -[2089.08 --> 2089.88] this -[2089.88 --> 2091.30] wonderful -[2091.30 --> 2092.26] truth -[2092.26 --> 2092.78] that we -[2092.78 --> 2093.54] are on -[2093.54 --> 2094.66] the path -[2094.66 --> 2095.82] that leads -[2095.82 --> 2097.36] to a -[2097.36 --> 2098.14] long life -[2098.14 --> 2098.86] with you, -[2099.46 --> 2099.84] a life -[2099.84 --> 2100.24] forever. -[2102.04 --> 2102.46] May we -[2102.46 --> 2103.26] never forget -[2103.26 --> 2104.36] that we -[2104.36 --> 2104.80] have been -[2104.80 --> 2105.46] cleansed -[2105.46 --> 2105.94] from our -[2105.94 --> 2106.28] sins -[2106.28 --> 2107.20] and declared -[2107.20 --> 2108.04] your saints. -[2109.18 --> 2109.68] Now help -[2109.68 --> 2110.12] us to -[2110.12 --> 2110.56] live more -[2110.56 --> 2111.34] like saints, -[2112.30 --> 2112.66] pursuing -[2112.66 --> 2113.36] purity -[2113.36 --> 2113.86] and the -[2113.86 --> 2114.30] holiness -[2114.30 --> 2115.06] that comes -[2115.06 --> 2115.70] from you, -[2116.32 --> 2117.60] Holy Spirit. -[2119.06 --> 2119.92] Give us -[2119.92 --> 2120.52] the grace -[2120.52 --> 2121.32] to continually -[2121.32 --> 2122.04] name our -[2122.04 --> 2122.60] sin and -[2122.60 --> 2123.20] the courage -[2123.20 --> 2123.60] and the -[2123.60 --> 2124.12] conviction -[2124.12 --> 2124.94] to add -[2124.94 --> 2125.40] to our -[2125.40 --> 2126.88] faith so -[2126.88 --> 2127.50] we become -[2127.50 --> 2128.10] more and -[2128.10 --> 2128.78] more what -[2128.78 --> 2129.16] you have -[2129.16 --> 2129.72] redeemed -[2129.72 --> 2130.68] and called -[2130.68 --> 2131.54] us to -[2131.54 --> 2132.04] become, -[2132.90 --> 2134.46] just like -[2134.46 --> 2134.72] you. -[2135.92 --> 2136.70] We pray -[2136.70 --> 2137.28] this in the -[2137.28 --> 2137.80] name of -[2137.80 --> 2138.20] Jesus, -[2138.52 --> 2139.20] our Savior -[2139.20 --> 2140.34] and for -[2140.34 --> 2141.12] his sake. -[2141.86 --> 2142.26] Amen. diff --git a/Finding Wisdom (Sermon)_summary.txt b/Finding Wisdom (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d41c5b1a7f27d615067eaa5be6814f3750131df0..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Finding Wisdom (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,41 +0,0 @@ -• Reading from Job chapter 28 -• Three stanzas discussing finding wisdom and understanding -• Mortals search for material wealth but cannot find wisdom -• Wisdom is beyond human comprehension and price -• It is hidden from humans, even the birds in the sky -• God alone knows where it dwells and has viewed its worth -• The fear of the Lord is considered wisdom -• A personal anecdote about answering questions from patients at a hospital -• The speaker discusses the question of why parents need wisdom to answer their children's questions -• Reference is made to the story of Job and his search for wisdom in the face of suffering -• The importance of sitting with someone in silence before offering words of comfort or advice is highlighted -• The book of Job is referenced, specifically chapters 3-27, 29-42, and chapter 28 as an interlude -• The question of where wisdom can be found is posed in the book of Job, with the answer being the fear of the Lord. -• Ancient mining methods and the skill and cunning required for them -• Mankind's resourcefulness, intelligence, and conquest of creation -• The discovery of hidden things beneath the earth and mankind's wealth -• The difficulty in finding wisdom through human efforts and abilities -• The value and true nature of wisdom and its inaccessibility to mortals -• The search for wisdom and its impossibility to be found or bought -• The futility of seeking wisdom through material wealth and knowledge -• The question of where wisdom comes from -• The importance of seeking wisdom from God -• The presence of God's wisdom in creation, but its need for revelation to be understood -• Biblical passages referencing God's invisible qualities being seen in nature (Romans 1:19-20) -• The complexity of understanding the universe and creation -• The limitations of human understanding and knowledge -• The concept of divine wisdom and its relationship to creation -• The importance of fearing or loving God as a starting point for wisdom -• Job's character as an example of wise behavior, despite making mistakes -• The ability to explore the microcosm and macrocosm of the universe -• Contrast between access to wealth and lack of wisdom -• Importance of reverence, obedience, and worship of God for true wisdom -• Seeking God's guidance for wisdom rather than human knowledge or wealth -• Acknowledging God as the source of wisdom -• Recognizing limitations in answering life's questions and understanding circumstances -• Suffering and loss of loved ones -• Questioning God about suffering and why it happens -• Finding wisdom through the love of God -• Shunning evil and walking in God's way -• Seeking guidance from God's holy spirit -• Turning away from evil and seeking true wisdom for life \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Finding Wisdom (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/Finding Wisdom (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3783e80ab2bfa53846848ced2b49392baa3bb021..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Finding Wisdom (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,800 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 8.68] The reading this morning is from Job, chapter 28, the book of Job. -[9.62 --> 11.82] The theme is finding wisdom. -[15.52 --> 22.32] Job 28 is divided into three stanzas, so I will indicate when each one begins. -[23.22 --> 29.00] Stanza 1, there is a mine for silver and a place where gold is refined. -[30.00 --> 33.78] Iron is taken from the earth and copper is smelted from ore. -[34.68 --> 37.14] Mortals put an end to the darkness. -[37.46 --> 42.34] They search out the farthest recesses for ore in the blackest darkness. -[43.26 --> 48.96] Far from human dwellings they cut a shaft in places untouched by human feet. -[49.16 --> 52.56] Far from other people they dangle and sway. -[53.50 --> 57.92] The earth from which food comes is transformed below as by fire. -[57.92 --> 63.86] Lapis lazuli comes from its rocks and its dust contains nuggets of gold. -[64.72 --> 67.38] No bird of prey knows that hidden path. -[67.54 --> 69.48] No falcon's eye has seen it. -[70.06 --> 72.50] Proud beasts do not set foot on it. -[72.86 --> 74.58] And no lion prowls there. -[74.58 --> 78.98] People assault the flinty rock with their hands. -[78.98 --> 81.98] Lay bare the roots of the mountains. -[82.18 --> 84.22] They tunnel through the rock. -[84.76 --> 86.82] Their eyes see all its treasures. -[87.68 --> 92.14] They search the sources of the rivers and bring hidden things to light. -[92.14 --> 96.16] But where can wisdom be found? -[97.10 --> 99.80] Where does understanding dwell? -[99.80 --> 103.40] Well, then begins stanza two. -[104.60 --> 107.58] No mortal comprehends its worth. -[108.28 --> 110.82] It cannot be found in the land of the living. -[111.24 --> 113.64] The deep says it is not in me. -[114.00 --> 116.78] The sea says it is not in me. -[117.34 --> 120.08] It cannot be bought with the finest gold, -[120.08 --> 123.30] nor can its price be weighed out in silver. -[124.04 --> 126.74] It cannot be bought with the gold of Ophir, -[127.18 --> 129.64] with precious onyx or lapis lazuli. -[130.64 --> 133.66] Neither gold nor crystal can compare with it, -[134.20 --> 136.96] nor can it be had for jewels of gold. -[137.70 --> 140.26] Coral and jasper are not worthy of mention. -[140.82 --> 144.24] The price of wisdom is beyond rubies. -[144.24 --> 147.76] The topaz of kosh cannot compare with it. -[148.38 --> 150.68] It cannot be bought with pure gold. -[152.18 --> 155.14] Where, then, does wisdom come from? -[155.86 --> 158.32] Where does understanding dwell? -[160.44 --> 162.24] Now begin stanza three. -[163.28 --> 166.20] It is hidden from the eyes of every living thing, -[166.44 --> 168.80] concealed even from the birds in the sky. -[169.42 --> 173.76] Destruction and death say only a rumor of it has reached our ears. -[174.70 --> 177.32] God understands the way to it, -[178.02 --> 181.08] and he alone knows where it dwells. -[181.48 --> 183.74] For he views the ends of the earth -[183.74 --> 185.78] and sees everything under the heavens. -[186.40 --> 189.16] When he established the force of the wind -[189.16 --> 190.72] and measured out the waters, -[191.20 --> 193.38] when he made the decree for rain -[193.38 --> 195.06] and the path for the thunderstorm, -[195.74 --> 198.64] then he looked at wisdom and appraised it. -[198.64 --> 201.18] He confirmed it and tested it, -[201.50 --> 203.54] and he said to the human race, -[203.54 --> 206.08] the fear of the Lord, -[206.78 --> 208.00] that is wisdom, -[208.82 --> 211.54] and to shun evil is understanding. -[212.74 --> 214.84] And that's our text for this morning, too, -[214.92 --> 216.48] the fear of the Lord, -[216.62 --> 219.62] and that we can just as well say, -[219.76 --> 223.00] the love for the Lord, -[223.38 --> 224.72] that is wisdom, -[224.72 --> 228.02] and to shun evil is understanding. -[228.02 --> 229.90] Brothers and sisters, -[229.90 --> 231.40] in our Lord Jesus Christ, -[232.34 --> 233.26] why? -[234.58 --> 237.46] That's a question kids love to ask, isn't it? -[238.14 --> 239.90] And we as parents, you know, -[239.94 --> 241.78] we have to have a lot of wisdom -[241.78 --> 243.74] to always answer that question. -[244.50 --> 245.98] I was struck by that once -[245.98 --> 248.04] when I was volunteering -[248.04 --> 250.12] at Abbotsford Regional Hospital, -[250.26 --> 252.78] as I used to do every Thursday morning -[252.78 --> 255.74] before the pandemic shut us down. -[256.58 --> 260.16] I was a pastoral visitor there at the hospital, -[260.16 --> 262.64] and every week I would spend an hour -[262.64 --> 264.08] in the psych ward -[264.08 --> 267.16] and working with the patients there -[267.16 --> 270.14] and just to be there to talk to them, -[270.24 --> 271.80] to answer their questions or whatever. -[271.80 --> 275.18] So one week the physiotherapist on Judy -[275.18 --> 277.10] introduced me as Pastor Rudy -[277.10 --> 278.42] and added, -[278.78 --> 281.00] he can answer any of your questions. -[281.72 --> 283.82] Well, that kind of left it wide open. -[284.02 --> 285.96] So one of the patients there, -[286.32 --> 290.24] in fact, a lady that I had spoken with before, -[290.64 --> 292.70] so she knew who I was and so on, -[292.78 --> 294.06] a little bit, -[294.14 --> 297.36] but she thought she'd tease me a little bit -[297.36 --> 300.58] and make a joke by asking me, -[300.58 --> 302.84] well, if you can answer any of our questions, -[302.96 --> 304.36] why is the sky blue? -[305.80 --> 307.94] Isn't that the kind of question kids usually ask? -[308.02 --> 309.08] Why is the sky blue? -[309.74 --> 311.04] Well, I told her, -[311.10 --> 312.70] turning the joke back on her, -[313.06 --> 314.28] it just so happens that -[314.28 --> 315.64] before I became a pastor, -[315.78 --> 316.96] I was a science teacher, -[317.36 --> 318.66] and I can tell you exactly -[318.66 --> 319.84] why the sky is blue. -[320.38 --> 322.18] So we had kind of fun with that. -[323.06 --> 324.32] But I can imagine that -[324.32 --> 327.38] the answers aren't always so ready to hand -[327.38 --> 329.42] when kids come up with these questions. -[329.58 --> 329.96] Why? -[330.58 --> 331.04] Why? -[331.20 --> 332.82] And parents need a lot of wisdom. -[333.64 --> 335.52] Where do parents get the wisdom -[335.52 --> 337.84] to answer all these questions? -[338.70 --> 339.98] The story of Job -[339.98 --> 342.10] is a search for wisdom -[342.10 --> 345.70] in facing the many struggles of life. -[346.32 --> 348.34] Job was a suffering child of God -[348.34 --> 350.06] who wanted to know why. -[350.06 --> 355.74] Three friends came to offer words of wisdom to Job. -[356.94 --> 358.76] Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar. -[358.96 --> 360.44] If you're familiar with the story, -[361.28 --> 362.98] you've read the book, -[363.28 --> 365.30] you know all their arguments. -[365.44 --> 367.28] We're not going to get into those this morning, -[367.28 --> 369.90] but did you ever notice that -[369.90 --> 372.84] before they began to argue with him, -[372.84 --> 378.12] they sat with him in silence for a week. -[378.12 --> 383.06] 168 hours of sitting with him -[383.06 --> 385.16] and not saying anything. -[385.16 --> 387.60] Now that showed real wisdom. -[388.70 --> 390.32] That is real comfort. -[390.52 --> 391.54] You know, sometimes when, -[391.74 --> 393.64] and you and I have experienced that -[393.64 --> 395.44] when we go through difficult times, -[395.44 --> 397.80] we don't need people to come -[397.80 --> 399.32] and give us the answer -[399.32 --> 401.60] and tell us how we should feel -[401.60 --> 403.18] and what we should do. -[403.38 --> 405.70] We just need somebody to be there. -[407.64 --> 409.06] Just to be there. -[409.20 --> 412.40] 90%, they say, of caring is just showing up. -[413.04 --> 415.02] Just to be there and sit with them. -[415.82 --> 416.82] 168 hours. -[417.64 --> 419.00] Can you imagine that? -[419.08 --> 420.70] And then they begin this debate. -[421.16 --> 424.30] Now, depending on how fast a reader you are, -[424.30 --> 425.84] you know, you can sit down -[425.84 --> 427.34] and read that whole debate, -[427.54 --> 431.66] chapters 3 through 27, -[432.26 --> 433.16] and you can read that -[433.16 --> 435.34] in about an hour and a half to two hours. -[436.72 --> 438.68] So all the good that they did -[438.68 --> 441.30] in the 168 hours of sitting there -[441.30 --> 442.22] and being with him, -[442.52 --> 443.60] they kind of undid it -[443.60 --> 444.70] when they opened their mouth -[444.70 --> 445.86] and started to talk -[445.86 --> 448.14] and give all kinds of excuses -[448.14 --> 449.92] and reasons and so on. -[450.24 --> 452.04] The first round of speeches -[452.04 --> 454.86] that takes about two hours to read, -[455.20 --> 457.68] and that's chapters 1 through 27. -[458.62 --> 461.44] And then chapters 29 through 42 -[461.44 --> 463.62] gives a second round of speeches -[463.62 --> 464.52] from Job, -[465.48 --> 466.96] a newcomer to the group, -[467.08 --> 467.72] Elihu, -[467.98 --> 470.58] and then God giving his answer. -[471.38 --> 472.46] And chapter 28 -[472.46 --> 473.86] is right in between -[473.86 --> 476.12] those two rounds of speeches. -[476.28 --> 477.42] It's an interlude. -[477.42 --> 479.24] And in this interlude, -[479.38 --> 480.64] the question is asked, -[481.14 --> 483.76] where can wisdom be found? -[484.66 --> 486.50] And it's set up like a poem -[486.50 --> 489.44] with the refrain after each verse. -[489.92 --> 491.86] The refrain in verse 12, -[492.70 --> 494.94] where does wisdom come from? -[495.08 --> 496.68] Where does understanding dwell? -[497.44 --> 498.70] And in verse 20, -[498.80 --> 499.66] that is repeated. -[500.36 --> 501.38] And in our text, -[501.50 --> 502.18] verse 28, -[502.30 --> 503.68] it's changed a little bit. -[503.78 --> 504.76] The answer is given. -[504.76 --> 505.94] And the fear of the Lord, -[506.34 --> 507.44] that is wisdom. -[507.92 --> 509.92] And to shun evil is understanding. -[510.10 --> 511.00] So each stanza -[511.00 --> 515.44] ends with a question about wisdom. -[516.58 --> 518.42] Now, in the first stanza, -[518.70 --> 521.60] Job considers mankind's search -[521.60 --> 523.36] for wisdom. -[524.50 --> 526.74] Where can we find wisdom -[526.74 --> 528.10] if we seek for it? -[529.04 --> 530.00] In the second stanza, -[530.12 --> 532.50] he considers mankind's wealth. -[532.50 --> 535.30] Can we buy wisdom -[535.30 --> 536.74] if we are rich enough -[536.74 --> 538.28] to buy it? -[538.96 --> 539.60] And finally, -[539.80 --> 540.82] he turns to God -[540.82 --> 541.80] in the third stanza -[541.80 --> 543.88] to discover the true source -[543.88 --> 545.10] of wisdom, -[545.34 --> 546.44] which is God himself. -[546.68 --> 548.34] Let's look at these two stanzas. -[548.94 --> 549.60] The first one, -[549.74 --> 551.32] mankind's search. -[553.14 --> 554.40] Verses 1 to 11 -[554.40 --> 555.72] give us a detailed -[555.72 --> 557.36] and accurate description -[557.36 --> 559.50] of ancient mining methods. -[559.50 --> 562.08] The author's intention -[562.08 --> 564.10] is to reflect mankind's -[564.10 --> 565.42] amazing skill -[565.42 --> 566.30] and cunning -[566.30 --> 567.74] in carrying out -[567.74 --> 569.20] this extremely difficult -[569.20 --> 571.02] and hazardous task -[571.02 --> 573.80] of getting valuable minerals -[573.80 --> 575.06] and gems and so on -[575.06 --> 577.02] from underneath the earth. -[577.70 --> 578.74] Mankind's success -[578.74 --> 579.70] as a miner -[579.70 --> 581.52] shows how resourceful -[581.52 --> 583.98] and how intelligent we are. -[583.98 --> 585.68] We have conquered -[585.68 --> 586.54] the creation -[586.54 --> 588.28] in a real sense -[588.28 --> 589.34] and we use it -[589.34 --> 590.58] for our own purposes. -[591.62 --> 592.46] We have discovered -[592.46 --> 593.58] many things, -[593.74 --> 595.40] he says in this stanza, -[595.86 --> 597.30] underneath the earth -[597.30 --> 598.26] that even -[598.26 --> 600.10] mighty creatures -[600.10 --> 601.34] who roam the earth -[601.34 --> 602.46] and fly over it -[602.46 --> 603.62] have never seen. -[604.92 --> 605.54] Mankind -[605.54 --> 608.00] is the crown of creation. -[608.72 --> 609.64] We can discover -[609.64 --> 611.42] the sources of rivers. -[611.42 --> 613.44] We can lay bare -[613.44 --> 615.02] the roots of the mountains -[615.02 --> 616.62] and bring hidden things -[616.62 --> 617.28] to light. -[618.18 --> 619.34] But for all -[619.34 --> 620.62] of our skill -[620.62 --> 621.38] and ability -[621.38 --> 623.38] we cannot discover -[623.38 --> 624.52] the mystery -[624.52 --> 625.82] of wisdom. -[626.58 --> 627.88] Nor are we able -[627.88 --> 628.88] to search out -[628.88 --> 629.62] and understand -[629.62 --> 630.94] the secret ways -[630.94 --> 631.66] of God. -[632.76 --> 633.42] These verses -[633.42 --> 634.16] suggest -[634.16 --> 635.08] the difficulty -[635.08 --> 635.80] facing us -[635.80 --> 636.38] in our search -[636.38 --> 636.92] for wisdom. -[638.00 --> 639.36] We will not find it -[639.36 --> 641.36] by our own efforts. -[641.42 --> 642.42] and abilities -[642.42 --> 643.72] and therefore -[643.72 --> 645.16] the refrain cries out -[645.16 --> 646.64] where can wisdom -[646.64 --> 647.36] be found? -[648.18 --> 648.82] Where does -[648.82 --> 650.00] understanding dwell? -[651.80 --> 652.74] Then we come -[652.74 --> 653.86] to the second stanza -[653.86 --> 654.44] and there -[654.44 --> 655.60] we look at -[655.60 --> 657.10] mankind's wealth. -[659.18 --> 659.86] Perhaps you've -[659.86 --> 660.44] heard the slogan -[660.44 --> 661.98] when money talks -[661.98 --> 662.86] people listen -[662.86 --> 664.76] and that's often true. -[665.74 --> 666.10] Or -[666.10 --> 667.82] the golden rule -[667.82 --> 668.56] you might have heard -[668.56 --> 669.16] has been twisted -[669.16 --> 669.58] to say -[669.58 --> 670.06] he who -[670.06 --> 671.72] has the gold -[671.72 --> 672.46] rules. -[674.10 --> 675.22] Money talks -[675.22 --> 675.68] indeed -[675.68 --> 676.62] but is that -[676.62 --> 678.08] where wisdom lies? -[678.88 --> 679.74] Does wealth -[679.74 --> 681.30] bring wisdom? -[681.78 --> 682.46] Can money -[682.46 --> 683.70] buy it? -[684.58 --> 685.32] In verse 13 -[685.32 --> 685.94] we read -[685.94 --> 687.32] no mortal -[687.32 --> 688.50] can comprehend -[688.50 --> 690.26] its worth. -[690.96 --> 692.10] We don't even know -[692.10 --> 693.16] the true value -[693.16 --> 694.34] of wisdom. -[694.34 --> 695.80] how could we -[695.80 --> 696.62] even begin -[696.62 --> 697.92] to buy it? -[698.58 --> 698.84] And then -[698.84 --> 699.74] verse 13b -[699.74 --> 700.72] and 14 say -[700.72 --> 702.56] even if you knew -[702.56 --> 703.28] its value -[703.28 --> 704.34] where would you go -[704.34 --> 705.60] to buy it? -[706.34 --> 707.54] You can't find it -[707.54 --> 708.30] any place -[708.30 --> 709.32] in the land -[709.32 --> 710.08] of the living. -[711.34 --> 712.64] Even the deep -[712.64 --> 713.80] and the sea -[713.80 --> 714.54] say -[714.54 --> 715.52] it is not -[715.52 --> 716.24] with me. -[717.30 --> 717.34] Creation -[717.90 --> 718.72] itself -[718.72 --> 720.18] can't sell it -[720.18 --> 721.20] to us. -[721.20 --> 723.42] verse 15 -[723.42 --> 724.12] to 19 -[724.12 --> 724.86] show that -[724.86 --> 725.38] if you could -[725.38 --> 725.86] find -[725.86 --> 727.00] all the most -[727.00 --> 728.40] precious jewels -[728.40 --> 729.34] on earth -[729.34 --> 730.78] you still -[730.78 --> 731.34] could not -[731.34 --> 732.20] buy wisdom. -[733.48 --> 733.76] And so -[733.76 --> 734.22] again -[734.22 --> 735.16] the refrain -[735.16 --> 736.16] of verse 20 -[736.16 --> 736.70] asks -[736.70 --> 738.04] where does -[738.04 --> 738.64] wisdom -[738.64 --> 740.12] come from? -[740.82 --> 741.40] Where does -[741.40 --> 742.20] understanding -[742.20 --> 743.24] dwell? -[744.66 --> 745.40] Now we look -[745.40 --> 745.90] at the third -[745.90 --> 746.38] stanza -[746.38 --> 747.60] discovering -[747.60 --> 748.56] God's -[748.56 --> 749.34] response. -[749.34 --> 751.44] verses 21 -[751.44 --> 752.28] to 27 -[752.28 --> 754.12] it is time -[754.12 --> 754.78] to turn away -[754.78 --> 755.54] from man -[755.54 --> 757.02] and to seek -[757.02 --> 757.66] the answer -[757.66 --> 758.50] from God. -[759.58 --> 760.76] Verse 21 -[760.76 --> 761.54] begins by -[761.54 --> 762.54] repeating again -[762.54 --> 763.30] the ideas -[763.30 --> 763.68] that -[763.68 --> 764.78] though we may -[764.78 --> 765.54] search for -[765.54 --> 766.22] hidden treasures -[766.22 --> 767.04] in the earth -[767.04 --> 767.92] though we may -[767.92 --> 768.58] see more -[768.58 --> 769.32] aspects of -[769.32 --> 769.84] creation -[769.84 --> 770.50] than any -[770.50 --> 771.30] other creature -[771.30 --> 772.38] though skill -[772.38 --> 773.52] and ingenuity -[773.52 --> 774.24] may open -[774.24 --> 775.36] many mysteries -[775.36 --> 776.28] of creation -[776.28 --> 777.72] yet for all -[777.72 --> 778.48] our searching -[778.48 --> 779.22] we cannot -[779.22 --> 780.78] find wisdom -[780.78 --> 781.72] for all -[781.72 --> 782.34] the amassed -[782.34 --> 782.78] riches -[782.78 --> 783.66] of our world -[783.66 --> 784.58] we cannot -[784.58 --> 785.40] buy it. -[787.14 --> 788.02] Does that -[788.02 --> 788.46] mean that -[788.46 --> 789.10] God's wisdom -[789.10 --> 790.04] is not present -[790.04 --> 791.16] in this -[791.16 --> 791.64] creation? -[792.84 --> 793.96] Well we -[793.96 --> 795.00] as New Testament -[795.00 --> 795.48] Christians -[795.48 --> 796.02] know that -[796.02 --> 796.50] that's not -[796.50 --> 797.22] true because -[797.22 --> 797.76] we know -[797.76 --> 798.38] the Apostle -[798.38 --> 799.16] Paul teaches -[799.16 --> 799.90] us differently. -[800.98 --> 801.74] In Romans 1 -[801.74 --> 802.44] verse 19 -[802.44 --> 803.04] and 20 -[803.04 --> 804.70] he writes -[804.70 --> 805.70] what may -[805.70 --> 806.46] be known -[806.46 --> 807.54] about God -[807.54 --> 808.28] is plain -[808.28 --> 808.76] to them -[808.76 --> 809.66] because God -[809.66 --> 810.28] has made -[810.28 --> 810.76] it plain -[810.76 --> 811.24] to them -[811.24 --> 811.86] for since -[811.86 --> 812.60] the creation -[812.60 --> 813.32] of the world -[813.32 --> 814.90] God's invisible -[814.90 --> 815.64] qualities -[815.64 --> 816.56] his eternal -[816.56 --> 817.22] power -[817.22 --> 817.96] and divine -[817.96 --> 818.36] nature -[818.36 --> 819.14] have been -[819.14 --> 820.66] clearly seen -[820.66 --> 822.16] being understood -[822.16 --> 822.96] from what -[822.96 --> 824.00] has been made -[824.00 --> 825.16] so that men -[825.16 --> 826.06] are without -[826.06 --> 826.90] excuse. -[827.90 --> 828.22] And from -[828.22 --> 828.98] that we learn -[828.98 --> 829.68] that yes -[829.68 --> 830.70] the wisdom -[830.70 --> 831.34] of God -[831.34 --> 832.98] is present -[832.98 --> 834.48] in creation -[834.48 --> 836.00] but we can -[836.00 --> 837.16] only see it -[837.16 --> 838.34] if God -[838.34 --> 839.56] reveals it -[839.56 --> 840.30] to us. -[841.74 --> 842.70] Job 38 -[842.70 --> 843.66] through 40 -[843.66 --> 844.86] is what -[844.86 --> 845.24] we might -[845.24 --> 845.84] almost call -[845.84 --> 846.70] a tour -[846.70 --> 847.98] of the universe -[847.98 --> 849.76] where God -[849.76 --> 850.76] now speaks -[850.76 --> 852.66] and God -[852.66 --> 853.12] says -[853.12 --> 854.00] where were -[854.00 --> 855.20] you Job -[855.20 --> 856.34] with all -[856.34 --> 856.96] your wisdom -[856.96 --> 858.14] when I -[858.14 --> 858.70] created -[858.70 --> 859.66] the universe -[859.66 --> 861.56] how can -[861.56 --> 862.50] you understand -[862.50 --> 862.86] Job -[862.86 --> 863.62] how it -[863.62 --> 864.14] was made -[864.14 --> 865.00] and how -[865.00 --> 865.56] it was put -[865.56 --> 866.02] together -[866.02 --> 868.58] can mankind -[868.58 --> 869.74] can we -[869.74 --> 871.26] ever grasp -[871.26 --> 872.28] the miracle -[872.28 --> 873.58] of what God -[873.58 --> 874.12] did -[874.12 --> 875.48] in the creation -[875.48 --> 876.46] and what he -[876.46 --> 877.50] continues to -[877.50 --> 878.00] do -[878.00 --> 879.82] in upholding -[879.82 --> 880.52] and sustaining -[880.52 --> 881.22] and providing -[881.22 --> 882.12] for our world -[882.12 --> 884.12] the wisdom -[884.12 --> 884.88] of God -[884.88 --> 885.68] is indeed -[885.68 --> 886.54] present -[886.54 --> 887.70] in creation -[887.70 --> 889.34] but only -[889.34 --> 890.14] God -[890.14 --> 891.66] knows -[891.66 --> 892.06] the way -[892.06 --> 892.58] to it -[892.58 --> 893.86] he is -[893.86 --> 894.58] the source -[894.58 --> 895.92] and only -[895.92 --> 896.66] he can -[896.66 --> 897.02] give it -[897.02 --> 897.56] to us -[897.56 --> 899.42] how then -[899.42 --> 899.92] can we -[899.92 --> 900.86] get wisdom -[900.86 --> 901.92] well -[901.92 --> 903.42] that's why -[903.42 --> 904.12] verse 28 -[904.12 --> 905.06] is our text -[905.06 --> 905.98] and also -[905.98 --> 906.68] the conclusion -[906.68 --> 907.54] of this chapter -[907.54 --> 909.48] verse 28 -[909.48 --> 910.56] reveals God's -[910.56 --> 911.38] secret way -[911.38 --> 912.88] the fear -[912.88 --> 914.64] or the love -[914.64 --> 915.74] of the Lord -[915.74 --> 916.76] is the beginning -[916.76 --> 917.34] of wisdom -[917.34 --> 919.12] and those -[919.12 --> 919.70] are familiar -[919.70 --> 920.18] words -[920.18 --> 920.68] I know -[920.68 --> 921.00] they are -[921.00 --> 921.34] for me -[921.34 --> 921.80] because they -[921.80 --> 922.16] were written -[922.16 --> 922.96] on the foundation -[922.96 --> 923.70] stone of the -[923.70 --> 924.36] Christian school -[924.36 --> 925.12] that I attended -[925.12 --> 926.14] in Hamilton -[926.14 --> 926.78] Ontario -[926.78 --> 928.78] the fear -[928.78 --> 929.26] of the Lord -[929.26 --> 929.88] is the beginning -[929.88 --> 930.40] of wisdom -[930.40 --> 931.30] they're found -[931.30 --> 932.54] in Psalm 110 -[932.54 --> 933.40] they're found -[933.40 --> 934.10] in Proverbs -[934.10 --> 934.98] chapter 1 -[934.98 --> 936.64] and here -[936.64 --> 937.44] Job adds -[937.44 --> 938.88] and to shun -[938.88 --> 939.52] evil -[939.52 --> 940.86] is the beginning -[940.86 --> 942.00] of understanding -[942.00 --> 943.74] the love -[943.74 --> 944.42] of the Lord -[944.42 --> 945.32] is the beginning -[945.32 --> 946.02] of wisdom -[946.02 --> 947.48] and to shun -[947.48 --> 947.96] evil -[947.96 --> 950.24] is the beginning -[950.24 --> 951.18] of understanding -[951.18 --> 952.88] this really -[952.88 --> 953.64] makes Job -[953.64 --> 954.22] himself -[954.22 --> 954.84] the best -[954.84 --> 955.40] example -[955.40 --> 956.04] of wisdom -[956.04 --> 958.00] because we read -[958.00 --> 958.78] in chapter 1 -[958.78 --> 959.28] verse 1 -[959.28 --> 960.08] that Job -[960.08 --> 961.18] was blameless -[961.18 --> 962.10] and upright -[962.10 --> 963.62] he feared -[963.62 --> 964.34] that is -[964.34 --> 965.12] he loved -[965.12 --> 965.80] God -[965.80 --> 967.06] and he shunned -[967.06 --> 967.60] evil -[967.60 --> 969.88] the debate -[969.88 --> 970.78] shows that Job -[970.78 --> 971.50] was not always -[971.50 --> 972.20] right either -[972.20 --> 973.70] he too made -[973.70 --> 974.26] mistakes -[974.26 --> 974.94] for which he -[974.94 --> 975.58] needed to be -[975.58 --> 976.04] corrected -[976.04 --> 977.68] but he did -[977.68 --> 978.34] have the -[978.34 --> 978.78] beginning -[978.78 --> 979.78] of wisdom -[979.78 --> 981.00] because he -[981.00 --> 982.30] loved God -[982.30 --> 983.58] and shunned -[983.58 --> 984.24] evil -[984.24 --> 987.82] isn't it true -[987.82 --> 988.42] that today -[988.42 --> 989.00] we can do -[989.00 --> 990.04] so much more -[990.04 --> 991.46] with our signs -[991.46 --> 992.46] and our computers -[992.46 --> 993.98] we can explore -[993.98 --> 996.16] the microcosm -[996.16 --> 996.94] of the atoms -[996.94 --> 998.08] and we can explore -[998.08 --> 999.38] the macrocosm -[999.38 --> 1000.20] of the stars -[1000.20 --> 1001.16] and the universe -[1001.16 --> 1003.32] but we still -[1003.32 --> 1004.44] can't find wisdom -[1004.44 --> 1006.74] I was reminded -[1006.74 --> 1007.30] yesterday -[1007.30 --> 1008.48] of that astronaut -[1008.48 --> 1010.10] the Russian astronaut -[1010.10 --> 1012.06] who was the first -[1012.06 --> 1013.00] human being -[1013.00 --> 1014.20] to go into space -[1014.20 --> 1015.48] and his comment -[1015.48 --> 1015.80] was -[1015.80 --> 1016.46] I looked out -[1016.46 --> 1016.96] the window -[1016.96 --> 1017.92] and I didn't see -[1017.92 --> 1018.76] God up there -[1018.76 --> 1020.60] and somebody -[1020.60 --> 1022.12] wisely suggested -[1022.12 --> 1022.90] well perhaps -[1022.90 --> 1023.66] if you'd stepped -[1023.66 --> 1024.28] outside -[1024.28 --> 1025.20] you would have -[1025.20 --> 1025.72] seen him -[1025.72 --> 1028.04] yes -[1028.04 --> 1029.98] we have amazing -[1029.98 --> 1030.64] resources -[1030.64 --> 1032.90] to explore -[1032.90 --> 1033.88] the universe -[1033.88 --> 1036.08] from the macrocosm -[1036.08 --> 1037.26] to the microcosm -[1037.26 --> 1038.62] but we still -[1038.62 --> 1040.20] can't find wisdom -[1040.20 --> 1042.00] as witness -[1042.00 --> 1042.78] in our world -[1042.78 --> 1043.40] the problems -[1043.40 --> 1044.14] of pollution -[1044.14 --> 1045.60] of racism -[1045.60 --> 1046.82] of wars -[1046.82 --> 1048.32] and of crimes -[1048.32 --> 1049.36] that affect -[1049.36 --> 1050.24] all of us -[1050.24 --> 1051.92] today we have -[1051.92 --> 1052.80] access to -[1052.80 --> 1054.70] amazing resources -[1054.70 --> 1055.50] of wealth -[1055.50 --> 1057.36] and yet -[1057.36 --> 1059.86] do we find -[1059.86 --> 1060.78] that the richest -[1060.78 --> 1061.46] countries -[1061.46 --> 1062.48] in the world -[1062.48 --> 1063.66] are always -[1063.66 --> 1064.60] the wisest -[1064.60 --> 1067.04] not by far -[1067.04 --> 1069.14] true wisdom -[1069.14 --> 1070.56] is the way -[1070.56 --> 1071.54] of reverence -[1071.54 --> 1072.46] and obedience -[1072.46 --> 1073.50] to God -[1073.50 --> 1075.12] to know -[1075.12 --> 1076.46] and to follow -[1076.46 --> 1077.34] his ways -[1077.34 --> 1078.54] and his laws -[1078.54 --> 1079.92] to worship -[1079.92 --> 1081.40] and to adore -[1081.40 --> 1081.82] him -[1081.82 --> 1083.42] and that's the call -[1083.42 --> 1084.34] to us this morning -[1084.34 --> 1084.90] if you want -[1084.90 --> 1085.84] to seek wisdom -[1085.84 --> 1087.64] then turn to God -[1087.64 --> 1089.16] and he will reveal -[1089.16 --> 1090.22] the path of wisdom -[1090.22 --> 1091.70] to all who seek him -[1091.70 --> 1093.54] not always -[1093.54 --> 1094.56] to those who seek -[1094.56 --> 1095.70] human knowledge -[1095.70 --> 1096.46] and skill -[1096.46 --> 1097.52] and apply it -[1097.52 --> 1099.26] or necessarily -[1099.26 --> 1100.52] to those who seek -[1100.52 --> 1101.26] the riches -[1101.26 --> 1102.38] of this world -[1102.38 --> 1104.44] but always -[1104.44 --> 1105.28] to those -[1105.28 --> 1106.38] who truly -[1106.38 --> 1107.56] seek God -[1107.56 --> 1108.72] walk -[1108.72 --> 1109.62] in his way -[1109.62 --> 1111.66] love the Lord -[1111.66 --> 1113.14] and shun -[1113.14 --> 1113.82] evil -[1113.82 --> 1115.40] amen -[1115.40 --> 1118.42] shall we pray -[1118.42 --> 1122.08] heavenly father -[1122.08 --> 1122.84] we thank you -[1122.84 --> 1124.06] that you are -[1124.06 --> 1124.50] the source -[1124.50 --> 1124.98] of wisdom -[1124.98 --> 1126.94] and we acknowledge -[1126.94 --> 1127.68] lord that there -[1127.68 --> 1128.52] are many times -[1128.52 --> 1129.24] in our lives -[1129.24 --> 1130.18] when we need -[1130.18 --> 1130.98] wisdom -[1130.98 --> 1134.66] we can't always -[1134.66 --> 1135.60] answer the questions -[1135.60 --> 1136.40] of the children -[1136.40 --> 1139.06] we don't always -[1139.06 --> 1139.72] understand -[1139.72 --> 1140.34] why things -[1140.34 --> 1140.94] are happening -[1140.94 --> 1141.88] in our lives -[1141.88 --> 1143.84] why we are -[1143.84 --> 1144.24] suffering -[1144.24 --> 1144.98] why our loved -[1144.98 --> 1145.80] ones are suffering -[1145.80 --> 1147.26] why we have -[1147.26 --> 1147.82] lost -[1147.82 --> 1149.10] a loved one -[1149.10 --> 1151.28] and sometimes -[1151.28 --> 1152.14] we cry out -[1152.14 --> 1152.82] to you lord -[1152.82 --> 1153.78] why -[1153.78 --> 1154.56] oh god -[1154.56 --> 1157.60] why -[1157.60 --> 1160.28] and you -[1160.28 --> 1160.76] point us -[1160.76 --> 1161.32] back to your -[1161.32 --> 1161.66] word -[1161.66 --> 1162.66] and you -[1162.66 --> 1163.24] remind us -[1163.24 --> 1163.84] that it is -[1163.84 --> 1164.90] the love -[1164.90 --> 1165.52] of god -[1165.52 --> 1167.10] that is the -[1167.10 --> 1167.62] beginning of -[1167.62 --> 1168.00] wisdom -[1168.00 --> 1170.12] that we are -[1170.12 --> 1170.84] called in this -[1170.84 --> 1171.56] life to shun -[1171.56 --> 1172.00] evil -[1172.00 --> 1173.74] and to walk -[1173.74 --> 1174.54] in your way -[1174.54 --> 1176.28] and so we -[1176.28 --> 1176.86] pray lord -[1176.86 --> 1178.48] when the cry -[1178.48 --> 1179.20] of our heart -[1179.20 --> 1180.28] goes out to you -[1180.28 --> 1181.06] will you speak -[1181.06 --> 1181.76] to our heart -[1181.76 --> 1182.20] through your -[1182.20 --> 1182.92] holy spirit -[1182.92 --> 1183.50] and will you -[1183.50 --> 1184.14] lead us -[1184.14 --> 1185.32] in your way -[1185.32 --> 1186.04] will you open -[1186.04 --> 1186.72] our eyes -[1186.72 --> 1187.38] to see the -[1187.38 --> 1187.88] wonders -[1187.88 --> 1188.94] of your -[1188.94 --> 1189.58] creation -[1189.58 --> 1190.58] as we turn -[1190.58 --> 1191.24] to you -[1191.24 --> 1192.44] in love -[1192.44 --> 1193.40] and adoration -[1193.40 --> 1195.28] and father -[1195.28 --> 1195.72] will you -[1195.72 --> 1196.46] help us -[1196.46 --> 1196.98] by your -[1196.98 --> 1197.64] holy spirit -[1197.64 --> 1198.60] to turn away -[1198.60 --> 1199.66] from all -[1199.66 --> 1200.48] that is evil -[1200.48 --> 1201.62] in our lives -[1201.62 --> 1202.74] and in the -[1202.74 --> 1203.84] world around us -[1203.84 --> 1204.94] and then -[1204.94 --> 1205.78] may we truly -[1205.78 --> 1208.10] find -[1208.10 --> 1208.90] wisdom -[1208.90 --> 1210.46] for our -[1210.46 --> 1210.88] lives -[1210.88 --> 1212.24] we ask it -[1212.24 --> 1213.10] in jesus name -[1213.10 --> 1214.26] amen -[1214.26 --> 1214.76] you diff --git a/From Discord to Disciple (Sermon)_summary.txt b/From Discord to Disciple (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 590a9649f99fabd1a1d45064f1bdb5ba40b6af3d..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/From Discord to Disciple (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,59 +0,0 @@ -• The names of the 12 apostles -• Matthew's profession as a tax collector and its significance in Jesus' day -• The disdain towards tax collectors among the Jewish people due to their association with Roman oppression and profiteering -• A scene from the TV show "The Chosen" depicting Jesus calling Matthew, highlighting Peter's reaction and Jesus' words about being "used to different" -• Historical context of taxation in Israel under Roman occupation -• Jesus called both a tax collector (Matthew) and a zealot (Simon) as his disciples, showing radical love and diversity -• The selection of these two men was unusual and would have caused internal friction among the disciples -• Peter asks Jesus how he can bring enemies together, citing Jesus' own words about a kingdom divided against itself -• Jesus' call to both tax collectors and zealots reflects the same paradox in modern society, where people exclude others who don't agree with them -• Jesus' message is relevant today, as our world becomes more divisive due to party politics and a tendency to only associate with those who share similar views -• Criticism of current politics, where parties are portrayed as evil -• Impact of social media on division and polarization -• How social media platforms profit from controversy and addiction -• Dehumanization of people based on single beliefs or opinions -• Importance of face-to-face relationships and empathy in building common ground -• Exclusion and judgment vs acceptance and compassion -• Jesus' call to Simon the Zealot and Matthew the tax collector -• The power of an encounter with Jesus Christ -• Transformation from zealots who judge and divide to zealots for God's kingdom who show radical love for all people -• Examples of transformation in Paul's story and the lives of the disciples -• Discussion of Paul's transformation from a zealous persecutor of Christians to a devoted follower of Jesus Christ -• Paul's powerful encounter with God on the road to Damascus and its impact on his life -• Paul's writings to the Philippians about the encounter and how it affected him -• Paul's comparison of his former self as a Pharisee and law-abiding Jew, versus his current life as one who has lost all things for Christ -• Paul's emphasis on the importance of faith in Christ over human righteousness or laws -• The impact of this transformation on Paul's relationships with others, as seen in Ephesians. -• The unity of the church, with one body, one Spirit, and one God -• The transformation of Paul's heart through God's work in his life -• The call to radical love for all people, including enemies -• Confronting divisiveness and exclusivity with God's love -• Empowerment to see the humanity and image of God in others -• Jesus emphasizes the importance of judgment being left in His hands -• The dangers of judging others and wanting to sit in a seat of judgment ourselves -• The need for superhuman self-control, patience, kindness, gentleness, and love -• The fruit of the Spirit comes through relationship with Jesus -• God's love is only fully realized when we are in deep relationship with Him -• Jesus' example of loving His enemies and bridging the gap between us and God -• Growing in relationship with Jesus empowers us to bridge gaps with others, exemplify Him, and promote flourishing. -• The importance of turning off distractions and engaging with God -• Seeking a relationship with God through prayer and faith -• The power of the Lord's Supper as a means of encountering Jesus -• Jesus' invitation to His table to break bread and establish a relationship -• The author's personal experience of feeling like God is "winking" at them during sermon preparation -• Psalm 23 and its meaning -• Vindictive vs reconciled relationships -• The power of God's love to overcome brokenness -• The Last Supper with Jesus as a picture of God's peace -• Breaking bread with enemies as a sign of God's work in us -• God's peace transcending all understanding -• The power of God's love to reconcile broken relationships and bring peace -• The idea that reconciliation is a ministry empowered by the Holy Spirit -• The importance of peacemaking and being called children of heaven -• Inviting others who may be considered enemies or opposites to join in fellowship -• Praying for God's radical love to work through His Spirit, beyond human capacity -• Asking God to encounter us in new ways and empower us with love to engage with others -• Seeking to be a testimony of God's love and power -• Asking for God's presence on a journey or process -• Requesting the filling of the Holy Spirit to overcome challenges -• Praying for spiritual growth and manifestation of the Spirit's fruits \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/From Discord to Disciple (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/From Discord to Disciple (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 63a47588e2afa1301318f31272f1b0833e4a4435..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/From Discord to Disciple (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1238 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 1.92] Good morning once again. -[4.92 --> 14.82] Hear the word of the Lord from Matthew chapter 10, verses 2 through 4. -[16.70 --> 19.40] These are the names of the twelve apostles. -[20.50 --> 24.80] First, Simon, who is called Peter, and his brother Andrew. -[26.08 --> 28.76] James, son of Zebedee, and his brother John. -[30.00 --> 31.64] Philip and Bartholomew. -[32.56 --> 35.18] Thomas and Matthew, the tax collector. -[36.22 --> 38.52] James, son of Alphaeus and Thaddeus. -[39.48 --> 40.72] Simon, the zealot. -[41.72 --> 43.64] And Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. -[45.48 --> 47.94] This is the word of the Lord. -[47.94 --> 62.30] So, you can be excused if your hearts were not all aflutter this morning as I read today's passage. -[62.30 --> 73.08] Sometimes we can be on the edge of our seat as we hear about how God has powerfully worked through his people in his word. -[73.08 --> 79.58] And other times we might need to be prodded awake at the end of its reading. -[82.18 --> 85.46] This is not likely the most riveting passage you've ever heard. -[85.72 --> 92.44] And yet, if we are careful, we will see that God is powerfully at work in and through it. -[92.44 --> 99.40] Perhaps I can reread this passage in a way that may reveal a glimpse of its richness. -[101.90 --> 103.86] These are the names of the twelve apostles. -[103.86 --> 108.52] First, Simon, who is called Peter, and his brother Andrew. -[109.56 --> 112.56] James, son of Zebedee, and his brother John. -[113.66 --> 115.78] Philip and Bartholomew. -[116.98 --> 120.36] Thomas and Matthew, the passionate liberal. -[121.52 --> 124.90] And James, son of Alphaeus and Thaddeus. -[125.86 --> 127.94] Simon, the staunch conservative. -[127.94 --> 131.56] And Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. -[134.18 --> 138.56] Now, obviously, Matthew and Simon were not liberal nor conservative. -[139.46 --> 142.94] But using political parties that are a little more familiar with us, -[142.96 --> 146.46] and we understand the general disdain that they have for each other, -[147.38 --> 153.32] gives us a bit of a glimpse into how this might have been heard in Jesus' day. -[153.32 --> 158.50] But using liberal and conservative only gives us a glimpse. -[159.28 --> 164.96] The issues that Matthew would have faced were far deeper than the irritations most of us feel -[164.96 --> 167.94] towards opposite political stances. -[169.70 --> 175.34] The television show The Chosen, a TV series about Jesus' life, -[175.98 --> 181.54] depicts this friction well as Jesus stops by the tax collector's booth -[181.54 --> 186.00] in the middle of a busy Capernaum street in order to call Matthew. -[187.50 --> 188.50] Jesus says, -[189.38 --> 191.00] Matthew, son of Alphaeus. -[192.18 --> 196.70] And with eyes wide, Matthew squeaks out, -[197.52 --> 197.78] Yes? -[199.06 --> 201.02] Follow me, he says. -[202.18 --> 202.70] Me? -[204.38 --> 206.86] Yes, you, Jesus responds with a smile. -[208.22 --> 209.82] But just then, Peter interrupts. -[209.82 --> 211.36] Whoa, whoa, whoa. -[211.64 --> 212.62] What are you doing? -[213.70 --> 215.44] Do you have any idea who he is? -[215.62 --> 216.92] Do you know what he has done? -[217.32 --> 218.22] Do you even know him? -[220.02 --> 221.58] Yes, Jesus responds. -[222.86 --> 225.88] And as Matthew makes his way out of the tax collector's booth -[225.88 --> 228.52] and past the Roman centurion who he worked with, -[230.02 --> 231.20] Peter goes on. -[231.34 --> 231.66] He says, -[231.86 --> 232.80] I don't get it. -[234.44 --> 235.34] Jesus responds, -[235.34 --> 237.82] You didn't get it when I called you either. -[237.82 --> 240.14] But this is different. -[240.52 --> 241.84] I'm not a tax collector. -[242.92 --> 244.66] And Jesus simply responds, -[245.32 --> 246.38] Get used to different. -[248.04 --> 252.00] I think we're all still trying to get used to different. -[254.76 --> 256.36] Matthew was a tax collector. -[257.52 --> 258.46] Now, in our day, -[258.82 --> 263.42] many of us already have a bit of disdain and distrust and dislike for the tax man. -[263.42 --> 265.48] But in Jesus' time, -[265.56 --> 266.66] it was much more so, -[267.12 --> 267.92] much stronger. -[269.54 --> 271.42] Israel was under Roman occupation, -[271.96 --> 274.54] and this meant that they were forced to pay tribute to the Romans. -[275.22 --> 277.56] They paid so many different types of taxes. -[277.70 --> 280.00] They paid principal tax and land tax, -[280.06 --> 281.48] and then there was many others, -[281.60 --> 283.54] especially for the transportation of goods. -[284.24 --> 286.70] And then they were even subject to a temple tax. -[286.70 --> 293.20] And this taxation upon taxation was very heavy burden for the Jewish people to carry. -[294.86 --> 297.78] And so this extreme taxation, as you can imagine, -[298.14 --> 301.06] didn't endear the Romans to the Jews, -[301.26 --> 302.76] to put it mildly. -[304.14 --> 307.40] But worse than the Romans in the eyes of the Jews -[307.40 --> 310.16] were those who collected the taxes. -[310.16 --> 314.64] Because the collection of taxes was not done by the Romans themselves. -[315.42 --> 317.82] They subcontracted it to local Jews. -[319.12 --> 322.72] And these Jews could buy the rights to collect the taxes, -[322.92 --> 324.80] and then they could skim a little off the top -[324.80 --> 326.36] and collect extra for themselves. -[327.30 --> 328.60] And for the Jewish people, -[329.00 --> 330.82] what was far worse than the Romans -[330.82 --> 332.94] were their own people -[332.94 --> 335.22] who would sell them out to make a profit, -[335.22 --> 338.00] overburden their people, -[338.50 --> 340.54] collecting tax on behalf of their oppressor. -[342.62 --> 345.06] And so Jews saw tax collectors -[345.06 --> 346.72] as the worst kind of sinners. -[347.12 --> 348.28] They would lump them together -[348.28 --> 350.54] with beggars and thieves and robbers. -[352.86 --> 354.70] Most everyone in Israel -[354.70 --> 356.84] had a strong dislike for tax collectors. -[357.82 --> 359.34] However, you can imagine people -[359.34 --> 361.32] that were especially passionate -[361.32 --> 362.30] for their nation -[362.30 --> 363.48] and for their people -[363.48 --> 364.46] and for their God -[364.46 --> 366.62] would have been the most upset. -[368.64 --> 369.96] In Jesus' time, -[370.16 --> 372.08] frustrations against the Romans, -[372.66 --> 374.08] against the Roman oppression, grew. -[375.62 --> 378.76] And Jews that were consumed for zeal for God -[378.76 --> 380.84] were known as zealots. -[381.76 --> 383.12] They eventually formed a political -[383.12 --> 384.24] and religious movement -[384.24 --> 387.08] looking to rid Israel of Roman oppression, -[387.68 --> 390.38] to take back their land for God by force. -[390.38 --> 393.76] They saw themselves as God's means -[393.76 --> 394.72] of divine judgment. -[396.38 --> 397.08] The zealots, -[397.30 --> 399.14] with their extreme passionate love -[399.14 --> 400.78] for their people and their land, -[401.00 --> 402.62] were the most upset -[402.62 --> 404.80] with tax collectors -[404.80 --> 407.28] that would betray their country. -[407.28 --> 413.66] So, it's not recorded in the Bible, -[413.82 --> 415.06] but I would love to have been -[415.06 --> 416.16] a fly on the wall -[416.16 --> 418.16] as Simon the zealot -[418.16 --> 419.42] was called by Jesus. -[420.90 --> 422.20] He was likely excited -[422.20 --> 423.82] and passionate to serve God. -[425.10 --> 427.24] But just imagine the look on his face -[427.24 --> 428.10] when he found out -[428.10 --> 430.28] that Jesus had also called Matthew -[430.28 --> 431.28] the tax collector. -[431.28 --> 434.48] We can imagine the internal friction -[434.48 --> 435.38] that there would have been -[435.38 --> 436.44] within the disciples. -[438.92 --> 440.66] And so, this is probably why -[440.66 --> 441.94] Peter is asking the question, -[442.36 --> 443.66] Jesus, what are you doing? -[445.52 --> 446.92] How do you start a movement -[446.92 --> 449.16] and then bring enemies together? -[450.72 --> 451.48] Don't you remember -[451.48 --> 452.58] what you yourself said? -[452.94 --> 454.62] A kingdom divided against itself -[454.62 --> 455.38] can't stand. -[455.38 --> 460.06] And yet, this was no mistake. -[461.68 --> 463.32] When we look at Luke's account -[463.32 --> 464.66] of the call of the disciples, -[464.90 --> 465.76] we see that Jesus -[465.76 --> 467.88] went up on a mountainside alone -[467.88 --> 469.24] and he spent the night -[469.24 --> 470.32] praying to God -[470.32 --> 472.32] before coming down -[472.32 --> 473.82] and calling his disciples -[473.82 --> 475.70] the next morning. -[481.44 --> 482.68] Knowing this, I think -[482.68 --> 484.66] if we're honest with ourselves, -[484.66 --> 485.96] we can all be left -[485.96 --> 487.34] scratching our head, you know? -[488.42 --> 489.44] Jesus, how could you call -[489.44 --> 490.56] both a tax collector -[490.56 --> 492.32] and a zealot? -[494.02 --> 495.26] The radical love -[495.26 --> 497.10] and diversity that Jesus shows -[497.10 --> 498.50] in selecting his disciples -[498.50 --> 500.52] is bewildering to us. -[501.66 --> 503.06] And yet, never has it been -[503.06 --> 504.76] more relevant to us. -[506.16 --> 507.76] We, too, are both like -[507.76 --> 508.96] Simon the zealot -[508.96 --> 510.56] and Matthew the tax collector. -[511.70 --> 513.28] We exclude others -[513.28 --> 514.80] and we, too, -[514.92 --> 515.70] are excluded. -[517.50 --> 518.38] In this world, -[518.44 --> 519.60] we don't tend to seek out -[519.60 --> 520.60] diverse perspectives. -[521.32 --> 522.36] We look to those -[522.36 --> 523.44] who agree with us. -[524.14 --> 525.20] And it's on this basis -[525.20 --> 527.00] that we form our groups, -[527.22 --> 527.96] how we decide -[527.96 --> 529.22] whose team that we're on. -[529.86 --> 531.06] If people agree with us, -[531.10 --> 531.62] then they're in. -[531.80 --> 533.16] And if they don't agree with us, -[533.24 --> 534.02] then they're out. -[534.42 --> 536.02] And so the division begins. -[536.02 --> 540.86] Jesus says in his Sermon on the Mount, -[541.02 --> 542.86] if you love those who love you, -[542.92 --> 544.28] what reward will you get? -[544.68 --> 545.88] Are not even the tax collectors -[545.88 --> 546.46] doing that? -[547.48 --> 548.44] And if you greet only -[548.44 --> 549.22] your own people, -[549.44 --> 550.16] what are you doing -[550.16 --> 550.94] more than others? -[551.60 --> 553.30] Do not even the Gentiles do that? -[555.22 --> 556.66] Our world is becoming -[556.66 --> 557.84] more divisive. -[559.46 --> 561.24] We see this in party politics. -[562.04 --> 563.58] Some of us choose one party, -[563.58 --> 564.84] and it's our loyal team, -[565.20 --> 567.02] liberal, conservative, or NDP. -[568.36 --> 569.82] And we do our best to agree -[569.82 --> 571.08] with everything that they say -[571.08 --> 572.68] and justify and defend -[572.68 --> 573.92] their imperfections. -[574.52 --> 575.86] And then we see the worst -[575.86 --> 576.96] in the other parties, -[577.92 --> 579.24] gracious towards our team -[579.24 --> 580.56] and without grace -[580.56 --> 581.48] towards the other team, -[582.16 --> 582.62] the enemy. -[585.14 --> 586.86] There was a time in politics -[586.86 --> 588.52] when we agreed on the goal -[588.52 --> 589.80] of improving the country, -[589.96 --> 591.30] but simply disagreed -[591.30 --> 592.34] on the way to get there. -[592.34 --> 593.70] But now, -[594.78 --> 595.66] the trend is to paint -[595.66 --> 596.96] the other side as evil -[596.96 --> 598.84] and looking to destroy the nation. -[602.20 --> 603.48] Much closer to home -[603.48 --> 604.24] for some of us, -[604.28 --> 605.32] even in our pockets, -[606.34 --> 607.82] our culture is working -[607.82 --> 609.28] to reinforce this attitude -[609.28 --> 610.16] of division -[610.16 --> 612.46] through social media -[612.46 --> 613.32] and our smartphones -[613.32 --> 614.34] where the average adult -[614.34 --> 616.12] spends three hours a day. -[616.12 --> 620.36] I recently watched a documentary -[620.36 --> 620.94] on Netflix -[620.94 --> 622.38] called The Social Dilemma, -[622.82 --> 624.18] which chronicled the ways -[624.18 --> 626.24] that social media platforms -[626.24 --> 628.96] profit from keeping people -[628.96 --> 630.06] addicted to their phones. -[631.50 --> 633.08] And what the social media empires -[633.08 --> 633.78] have found -[633.78 --> 636.36] is that people stay engaged longer -[636.36 --> 638.02] when there's controversy. -[639.06 --> 639.34] Right? -[639.34 --> 640.50] And so, -[640.78 --> 641.88] social media platforms -[641.88 --> 643.24] allow and encourage -[643.24 --> 644.58] controversy to spread -[644.58 --> 645.46] on social media. -[646.34 --> 647.62] The extreme perspectives -[647.62 --> 648.20] prevail -[648.20 --> 649.70] and they flood -[649.70 --> 650.54] our news feed. -[651.38 --> 652.44] And our news feeds -[652.44 --> 653.10] are customized -[653.10 --> 653.82] to show us -[653.82 --> 654.56] the least charitable -[654.56 --> 655.48] understandings -[655.48 --> 657.50] of those whom we oppose -[657.50 --> 659.10] to keep us engaged. -[660.14 --> 661.76] And it polarizes us. -[663.84 --> 665.18] But engaging ideas -[665.18 --> 665.96] through phones -[665.96 --> 666.76] or computers -[666.76 --> 668.56] rather than with real people -[668.56 --> 669.92] that we know -[669.92 --> 671.66] leads us to flatten people -[671.66 --> 673.40] into their one belief. -[674.18 --> 675.24] We equate people -[675.24 --> 676.68] with that one belief. -[677.46 --> 678.88] And when we caricature people -[678.88 --> 680.04] based on one belief, -[680.52 --> 681.66] we are essentially -[681.66 --> 682.94] dehumanizing them. -[684.14 --> 686.00] Because human beings -[686.00 --> 687.18] are far more complex -[687.18 --> 688.26] than one belief -[688.26 --> 689.28] on one subject. -[689.62 --> 690.86] There's always far more -[690.86 --> 692.10] behind why we choose -[692.10 --> 693.12] to see the best -[693.12 --> 694.32] on one side of an issue -[694.32 --> 695.46] and the worst on another -[695.46 --> 697.16] rather than vice versa. -[699.78 --> 701.44] But when we delve deeper -[701.44 --> 702.30] into relationship -[702.30 --> 703.46] in real community, -[703.82 --> 704.80] when someone is sitting -[704.80 --> 705.96] with us face to face -[705.96 --> 706.68] and we engage -[706.68 --> 707.50] with them personally, -[707.88 --> 709.32] when we consciously choose -[709.32 --> 710.30] to love them -[710.30 --> 712.24] and to try to understand them, -[712.44 --> 713.36] it is amazing -[713.36 --> 714.78] how we can grow -[714.78 --> 715.60] in compassion -[715.60 --> 717.06] and find common ground. -[717.18 --> 719.88] the more resilience -[719.88 --> 720.60] we build -[720.60 --> 721.68] into our relationships, -[721.84 --> 722.40] the more deeply -[722.40 --> 723.28] we know each other, -[723.72 --> 724.78] the harder it is -[724.78 --> 726.30] for us to write someone off -[726.30 --> 727.36] if we disagree with them -[727.36 --> 728.02] on one issue -[728.02 --> 729.90] because we have -[729.90 --> 730.64] many other ties -[730.64 --> 731.60] that bind us together. -[736.86 --> 738.24] It's easy to say all this, -[738.36 --> 739.00] but I can imagine -[739.00 --> 739.68] for some of you, -[739.74 --> 740.30] you're sitting there -[740.30 --> 740.94] and you're thinking, -[740.94 --> 744.56] and for me myself, -[745.02 --> 746.58] I can feel like -[746.58 --> 747.58] I just don't have -[747.58 --> 748.62] the capacity -[748.62 --> 749.74] for that kind of empathy. -[751.64 --> 752.46] Sometimes I just -[752.46 --> 753.46] can't bridge the gap. -[754.02 --> 755.22] The disagreement's too large -[755.22 --> 756.88] and it's too overwhelming. -[759.70 --> 760.64] Stop for a minute. -[762.54 --> 763.90] Who do you exclude? -[763.90 --> 766.20] Who is your tax collector? -[767.94 --> 769.26] Is it those Christians -[769.26 --> 771.14] who believe in Black Lives Matter? -[771.60 --> 773.72] Or perhaps the Christians -[773.72 --> 774.34] that believe -[774.34 --> 776.16] in the Proud Boy movement? -[778.80 --> 780.52] Or perhaps closer to home, -[780.60 --> 781.28] is it those who -[781.28 --> 783.04] seek to support the government -[783.04 --> 784.06] in wearing masks -[784.06 --> 785.00] and social distancing? -[785.00 --> 787.92] Or is it those -[787.92 --> 788.60] in our congregation -[788.60 --> 790.18] that refuse to wear masks -[790.18 --> 791.60] and social distance? -[791.60 --> 794.72] Whether intentional -[794.72 --> 795.78] or unintentional, -[795.98 --> 797.80] we all exclude others. -[799.74 --> 801.34] It seems unavoidable -[801.34 --> 802.28] and this is why -[802.28 --> 803.24] we shake our head -[803.24 --> 804.22] at Jesus calling -[804.22 --> 805.36] Simon the Zealot -[805.36 --> 806.90] and Matthew the tax collector. -[810.80 --> 811.80] For a while, -[811.90 --> 812.62] I wondered where -[812.62 --> 813.44] Simon the Zealot -[813.44 --> 814.46] landed with Matthew, -[814.96 --> 816.50] how he felt about Matthew. -[818.06 --> 819.32] But I realized -[819.32 --> 821.30] it doesn't really matter. -[821.60 --> 824.72] Jesus did not give Simon -[824.72 --> 826.32] an option, did he? -[827.50 --> 828.54] He didn't allow them -[828.54 --> 829.52] to place stipulations -[829.52 --> 830.22] on the call. -[831.22 --> 831.82] Sure, Jesus, -[831.94 --> 832.64] I'll follow you, -[832.78 --> 833.54] but you've got to get rid -[833.54 --> 834.70] of that snake, Matthew. -[835.24 --> 835.96] You made a mistake -[835.96 --> 836.54] calling him. -[838.50 --> 839.78] We don't call the shots -[839.78 --> 840.64] on being a disciple. -[841.74 --> 842.92] And Jesus makes this clear -[842.92 --> 843.68] in Luke 9. -[844.32 --> 845.24] He merely says, -[845.38 --> 846.42] let the dead bury the dead. -[847.14 --> 847.74] Follow me. -[847.74 --> 852.12] And so when Simon the Zealot -[852.12 --> 854.04] was unable to bridge the gap -[854.04 --> 856.18] and find compassion for Matthew, -[856.96 --> 858.60] he must have had -[858.60 --> 860.40] a powerful encounter -[860.40 --> 862.18] with Jesus Christ -[862.18 --> 863.62] that changed him -[863.62 --> 864.48] so profoundly -[864.48 --> 865.58] that his allegiance -[865.58 --> 866.18] must have been -[866.18 --> 867.62] completely altered course. -[870.12 --> 870.84] Simon's allegiance -[870.84 --> 872.24] became in Christ alone, -[872.42 --> 873.44] first and foremost, -[873.74 --> 874.96] not on earthly things, -[874.96 --> 876.16] but heavenly things, -[876.36 --> 877.92] so much so -[877.92 --> 878.84] that it changed -[878.84 --> 880.06] the way that he treated -[880.06 --> 880.76] others, -[880.92 --> 881.78] even his enemies. -[884.52 --> 885.36] This must have been -[885.36 --> 886.00] the case for all -[886.00 --> 886.62] the disciples. -[887.58 --> 888.32] Accepting the call -[888.32 --> 888.94] to be a disciple -[888.94 --> 889.52] would not have been -[889.52 --> 890.00] a picnic, -[890.64 --> 891.70] and for Matthew -[891.70 --> 892.84] or for the others -[892.84 --> 893.72] either. -[893.72 --> 898.24] faith in Jesus -[898.24 --> 899.38] became for the disciples -[899.38 --> 901.28] the tie that bound them together, -[902.28 --> 903.66] and it's through Jesus Christ -[903.66 --> 904.68] they found strength -[904.68 --> 906.14] to do all things, -[906.72 --> 907.94] even love someone -[907.94 --> 908.58] that had betrayed -[908.58 --> 909.92] their God and country, -[910.22 --> 911.48] like the lowly tax collector, -[911.64 --> 912.98] or even go to their death, -[913.86 --> 915.18] martyred for proclaiming Jesus -[915.18 --> 916.42] as risen Lord, -[917.08 --> 917.84] as most of them -[917.84 --> 918.60] eventually did. -[918.60 --> 921.22] This is the power -[921.22 --> 922.48] of an encounter -[922.48 --> 924.34] with Jesus Christ. -[926.32 --> 928.04] And this is the good news. -[929.92 --> 931.66] Our God transforms -[931.66 --> 933.26] the zealots of this world -[933.26 --> 934.60] that judge and divide -[934.60 --> 936.16] into zealots for his kingdom -[936.16 --> 938.04] who show radical love -[938.04 --> 939.18] for all people. -[942.26 --> 944.12] Paul is an example of this. -[946.18 --> 947.26] Paul's letters compose -[947.26 --> 948.24] much of the New Testament, -[948.60 --> 949.68] and his story is told -[949.68 --> 950.58] in the book of Acts. -[952.26 --> 953.76] In the book of Galatians, -[954.12 --> 955.18] Paul describes himself -[955.18 --> 956.24] as extremely zealous -[956.24 --> 956.96] for the traditions -[956.96 --> 957.76] of his father. -[960.08 --> 960.80] And in Acts, -[961.00 --> 962.08] we read of how -[962.08 --> 963.14] a zealous Paul -[963.14 --> 964.32] approves the murder -[964.32 --> 965.02] of Stephen, -[965.38 --> 965.94] a Christian, -[967.16 --> 967.82] and from there -[967.82 --> 968.38] goes around -[968.38 --> 969.72] chasing down Christians -[969.72 --> 970.82] and throwing them in prison, -[970.94 --> 971.70] doing his best -[971.70 --> 973.68] to destroy the early church. -[975.10 --> 976.68] Paul had chosen his team, -[977.46 --> 978.38] and Christians were -[978.38 --> 979.20] on the outside. -[982.04 --> 983.34] But Paul, too, -[983.96 --> 985.72] was profoundly changed -[985.72 --> 987.14] by a powerful encounter -[987.14 --> 987.84] with God -[987.84 --> 989.60] on the road to Damascus. -[990.46 --> 991.50] His allegiance -[991.50 --> 993.24] and life direction -[993.24 --> 994.12] completely altered. -[996.12 --> 997.22] Paul went on -[997.22 --> 997.82] to found -[997.82 --> 998.58] and build up -[998.58 --> 999.38] many churches -[999.38 --> 1000.46] across Asia Minor -[1000.46 --> 1000.88] and Europe -[1000.88 --> 1001.68] and even Rome, -[1002.30 --> 1003.72] befriending people -[1003.72 --> 1004.84] of all different sorts -[1004.84 --> 1006.06] and teaching others -[1006.06 --> 1006.96] to do the same -[1006.96 --> 1007.82] through the power -[1007.82 --> 1008.30] of Jesus. -[1010.80 --> 1011.72] After God -[1011.72 --> 1012.94] opened Paul's eyes -[1012.94 --> 1013.60] to the truth -[1013.60 --> 1014.58] of Jesus Christ, -[1014.86 --> 1015.54] he wrote this -[1015.54 --> 1016.54] to the Philippians -[1016.54 --> 1018.14] about the -[1018.14 --> 1020.02] powerful encounter -[1020.02 --> 1020.86] that he had had -[1020.86 --> 1021.36] with Christ -[1021.36 --> 1022.36] and how it affected him. -[1022.36 --> 1025.36] He said, -[1025.40 --> 1025.96] if someone else -[1025.96 --> 1026.50] thinks they have -[1026.50 --> 1027.50] reason to put confidence -[1027.50 --> 1028.14] in the flesh, -[1028.20 --> 1028.98] I have more. -[1030.44 --> 1031.12] Circumcised on the -[1031.12 --> 1031.64] eighth day -[1031.64 --> 1032.88] of the people of Israel, -[1033.58 --> 1034.20] of the tribe -[1034.20 --> 1034.88] of Benjamin, -[1035.60 --> 1036.70] a Hebrew of Hebrews, -[1037.18 --> 1038.60] in regards to the law, -[1038.74 --> 1039.58] a Pharisee, -[1039.84 --> 1040.62] as for zeal, -[1040.80 --> 1041.82] persecuting the church, -[1041.94 --> 1042.72] as for righteousness -[1042.72 --> 1043.74] based on the law, -[1044.22 --> 1044.74] faultless. -[1044.74 --> 1048.96] But whatever -[1048.96 --> 1050.20] were gains to me, -[1050.46 --> 1051.28] I now consider -[1051.28 --> 1051.86] a loss -[1051.86 --> 1052.34] for the sake -[1052.34 --> 1052.92] of Christ. -[1053.88 --> 1054.80] What is more, -[1054.90 --> 1055.32] I consider -[1055.32 --> 1056.36] everything a loss -[1056.36 --> 1057.12] because of the -[1057.12 --> 1058.08] surpassing worth -[1058.08 --> 1059.08] of knowing Christ -[1059.08 --> 1060.12] Jesus my Lord, -[1061.14 --> 1061.96] for whose sake -[1061.96 --> 1062.68] I have lost -[1062.68 --> 1063.42] all things. -[1064.60 --> 1065.42] I consider them -[1065.42 --> 1065.86] garbage -[1065.86 --> 1067.50] that I may gain -[1067.50 --> 1068.02] Christ -[1068.02 --> 1069.04] and be found -[1069.04 --> 1069.54] in him, -[1069.94 --> 1070.60] not having a -[1070.60 --> 1071.76] righteousness of my own -[1071.76 --> 1072.52] that comes from -[1072.52 --> 1072.98] the law, -[1073.62 --> 1074.32] but that which -[1074.32 --> 1074.80] comes through -[1074.80 --> 1075.92] faith in Christ, -[1076.52 --> 1077.12] the righteousness -[1077.12 --> 1078.48] that comes from God -[1078.48 --> 1079.94] on the basis of faith. -[1082.52 --> 1083.74] This is a completely -[1083.74 --> 1084.78] altered life, -[1085.92 --> 1086.52] a completely -[1086.52 --> 1087.32] altered allegiance. -[1089.62 --> 1090.68] And we see -[1090.68 --> 1091.38] in Ephesians -[1091.38 --> 1092.42] how this profoundly -[1092.42 --> 1094.44] affects Paul's view -[1094.44 --> 1095.16] of relationship -[1095.16 --> 1095.88] with others. -[1097.68 --> 1098.46] Paul says, -[1099.38 --> 1099.96] be completely -[1099.96 --> 1100.98] humble and gentle, -[1102.10 --> 1103.14] be patient, -[1103.14 --> 1104.62] bearing with one -[1104.62 --> 1105.56] another in love. -[1107.42 --> 1108.64] Make every effort -[1108.64 --> 1109.20] to keep -[1109.20 --> 1110.06] the unity -[1110.06 --> 1111.60] of the Spirit -[1111.60 --> 1112.40] through the bond -[1112.40 --> 1113.04] of peace. -[1114.84 --> 1116.10] There is one body -[1116.10 --> 1117.18] and one Spirit, -[1117.62 --> 1118.18] just as you were -[1118.18 --> 1119.42] called to one hope -[1119.42 --> 1120.58] when you were called, -[1120.98 --> 1121.64] one Lord, -[1122.04 --> 1122.74] one faith, -[1123.10 --> 1123.90] one baptism, -[1124.18 --> 1124.78] one God -[1124.78 --> 1125.76] and Father of all, -[1126.40 --> 1127.42] who is over all -[1127.42 --> 1128.78] and through all -[1128.78 --> 1130.48] and in all. -[1134.32 --> 1135.34] And as we read -[1135.34 --> 1136.62] of God's work -[1136.62 --> 1137.66] through Paul's life -[1137.66 --> 1138.10] and acts -[1138.10 --> 1138.66] and his letters, -[1139.66 --> 1140.68] we can see -[1140.68 --> 1141.28] that it is an -[1141.28 --> 1142.20] astounding testimony -[1142.20 --> 1143.18] to the transformation -[1143.18 --> 1145.20] he did in Paul's heart. -[1148.06 --> 1149.08] But our God -[1149.08 --> 1150.02] does not place -[1150.02 --> 1151.20] burdens on us -[1151.20 --> 1152.30] to try to live -[1152.30 --> 1153.30] in possible kindness. -[1153.30 --> 1156.88] He's called -[1156.88 --> 1157.98] each one of us -[1157.98 --> 1160.64] and he seeks -[1160.64 --> 1161.38] to encounter -[1161.38 --> 1162.58] each one of us -[1162.58 --> 1164.02] and he empowers -[1164.02 --> 1165.22] each one of us -[1165.22 --> 1167.24] and he himself, -[1167.46 --> 1167.80] God, -[1168.22 --> 1169.46] journeys with us -[1169.46 --> 1171.04] through his Holy Spirit. -[1173.44 --> 1174.46] He calls us -[1174.46 --> 1174.98] the same way -[1174.98 --> 1176.06] he called his disciples -[1176.06 --> 1178.00] and in this call -[1178.00 --> 1179.06] he brings zealots -[1179.06 --> 1179.96] and tax collectors -[1179.96 --> 1180.52] together, -[1180.98 --> 1181.66] sworn enemies -[1181.66 --> 1182.46] in this world -[1182.46 --> 1183.98] with very different agendas -[1183.98 --> 1186.38] and he confronts us -[1186.38 --> 1188.36] with the humanity -[1188.36 --> 1189.32] and image of God -[1189.32 --> 1189.94] in each other -[1189.94 --> 1193.24] while revealing to us -[1193.24 --> 1195.02] our own humanity -[1195.02 --> 1196.22] and image of God. -[1197.60 --> 1198.90] He confronts us -[1198.90 --> 1200.54] with the worldly boxes -[1200.54 --> 1201.86] that we put others in -[1201.86 --> 1203.50] and have ourselves -[1203.50 --> 1204.20] been put in. -[1205.98 --> 1207.58] He confronts us -[1207.58 --> 1208.50] with how we have -[1208.50 --> 1209.36] excluded others -[1209.36 --> 1210.70] and how we have -[1210.70 --> 1211.26] been excluded. -[1212.54 --> 1213.50] He confronts -[1213.50 --> 1214.22] our divisiveness -[1214.22 --> 1215.60] with radical love -[1215.60 --> 1216.14] for all, -[1216.30 --> 1217.12] even our enemies. -[1220.58 --> 1222.06] Jesus empowers us -[1222.06 --> 1223.02] to sit in the tension -[1223.02 --> 1224.54] of loving someone -[1224.54 --> 1225.36] who is our enemy, -[1225.94 --> 1228.06] to see the nuance -[1228.06 --> 1229.36] that they are more -[1229.36 --> 1230.74] than one idea -[1230.74 --> 1231.42] or belief. -[1232.28 --> 1233.22] He empowers us -[1233.22 --> 1234.46] to live as he did -[1234.46 --> 1235.96] as described beautifully -[1235.96 --> 1238.24] by Paul in Romans 5 -[1238.24 --> 1238.72] as we heard -[1238.72 --> 1239.34] in our confession -[1239.34 --> 1240.32] and assurance today. -[1240.32 --> 1243.56] While we were yet sinners, -[1243.88 --> 1245.20] he died for us. -[1246.56 --> 1247.36] Paul says, -[1247.76 --> 1248.30] we might die -[1248.30 --> 1249.08] for a good man, -[1249.14 --> 1249.84] but for our enemy, -[1250.02 --> 1250.86] not a chance. -[1251.52 --> 1253.16] But this is the power -[1253.16 --> 1254.18] of God's love. -[1255.66 --> 1256.68] On the cross, -[1256.80 --> 1257.46] Jesus Christ, -[1257.84 --> 1258.88] while being crucified -[1258.88 --> 1260.14] unjustly, -[1260.88 --> 1262.14] he prayed for them -[1262.14 --> 1263.66] as they mocked -[1263.66 --> 1264.42] and murdered him. -[1264.42 --> 1266.90] He saw them -[1266.90 --> 1268.46] as more than their mistake. -[1269.68 --> 1271.04] He saw the nuance. -[1272.28 --> 1273.02] He saw the image -[1273.02 --> 1273.66] of God -[1273.66 --> 1274.86] in each of them. -[1276.82 --> 1277.34] Forgive them, -[1277.52 --> 1277.70] Lord, -[1278.20 --> 1279.22] for they know not -[1279.22 --> 1280.04] what they're doing. -[1284.26 --> 1284.78] Forgive -[1284.78 --> 1285.60] as the Lord -[1285.60 --> 1286.36] forgave you. -[1286.36 --> 1290.54] Jesus radically -[1290.54 --> 1291.50] empowers us -[1291.50 --> 1292.14] to question -[1292.14 --> 1293.22] who we can put -[1293.22 --> 1294.02] on the outside. -[1295.22 --> 1296.08] Is there anyone? -[1297.12 --> 1298.30] If the prostitutes -[1298.30 --> 1299.18] and tax collectors -[1299.18 --> 1300.52] are to be loved, -[1301.32 --> 1302.56] if our enemy -[1302.56 --> 1303.30] is to be loved, -[1303.46 --> 1304.52] who can we turn away? -[1307.52 --> 1308.00] Judgment -[1308.00 --> 1308.76] is to be left -[1308.76 --> 1309.40] in the hands -[1309.40 --> 1310.12] of the good -[1310.12 --> 1311.22] and just judge, -[1311.36 --> 1312.16] Jesus Christ. -[1312.96 --> 1313.76] But it can be -[1313.76 --> 1314.28] so tempting -[1314.28 --> 1314.90] to want to sit -[1314.90 --> 1315.46] in that seat -[1315.46 --> 1316.08] ourselves. -[1316.36 --> 1317.04] Can it? -[1319.72 --> 1320.48] But how could -[1320.48 --> 1321.12] we possibly -[1321.12 --> 1322.34] be so loving? -[1322.68 --> 1323.32] It seems like -[1323.32 --> 1324.44] the impossible task. -[1325.68 --> 1326.44] We would need -[1326.44 --> 1327.40] to be so patient -[1327.40 --> 1329.08] and kind -[1329.08 --> 1330.28] and gentle -[1330.28 --> 1331.38] and loving. -[1332.62 --> 1333.54] We would need -[1333.54 --> 1334.50] superhuman -[1334.50 --> 1335.62] self-control. -[1336.98 --> 1337.76] We'd need -[1337.76 --> 1338.60] deep resources -[1338.60 --> 1339.38] for joy -[1339.38 --> 1339.98] and goodness -[1339.98 --> 1341.12] and peace. -[1343.46 --> 1344.44] We would need -[1344.44 --> 1344.86] the fruits -[1344.86 --> 1345.48] of the Spirit. -[1346.36 --> 1347.36] fruit of the Spirit. -[1348.68 --> 1349.66] But these only -[1349.66 --> 1350.24] come through -[1350.24 --> 1350.78] relationship -[1350.78 --> 1351.42] with Jesus. -[1352.64 --> 1353.72] When we follow -[1353.72 --> 1354.10] Him, -[1355.10 --> 1356.04] when we are -[1356.04 --> 1356.88] consumed for love -[1356.88 --> 1357.42] with Him, -[1359.02 --> 1360.30] when the rest -[1360.30 --> 1360.82] of the world -[1360.82 --> 1361.54] seems like filthy -[1361.54 --> 1362.10] rags -[1362.10 --> 1363.46] by comparison. -[1363.46 --> 1364.46] God's love -[1364.46 --> 1365.46] love -[1365.46 --> 1366.46] and love -[1366.46 --> 1367.10] God's -[1367.10 --> 1367.90] love -[1367.90 --> 1368.46] and love -[1368.46 --> 1369.10] God's -[1369.10 --> 1369.94] love -[1369.94 --> 1370.46] and love -[1370.46 --> 1370.62] love -[1370.62 --> 1371.16] our enemies -[1371.16 --> 1371.72] insofar -[1371.72 --> 1372.16] as we are -[1372.16 --> 1372.72] in Him, -[1373.44 --> 1373.82] in deep -[1373.82 --> 1374.40] relationship -[1374.40 --> 1374.94] with Jesus -[1374.94 --> 1375.40] Christ, -[1375.46 --> 1376.12] when we reflect -[1376.12 --> 1376.72] on Him -[1376.72 --> 1377.64] and when we -[1377.64 --> 1378.16] are praying -[1378.16 --> 1378.64] to Him -[1378.64 --> 1379.34] and we hear -[1379.34 --> 1379.84] Him speak -[1379.84 --> 1380.28] to us -[1380.28 --> 1380.64] in His -[1380.64 --> 1381.12] Word -[1381.12 --> 1382.58] and rest -[1382.58 --> 1383.06] in Him -[1383.06 --> 1384.00] when we -[1384.00 --> 1384.54] abide in -[1384.54 --> 1385.06] the One -[1385.06 --> 1386.70] who Himself -[1386.70 --> 1387.22] loved His -[1387.22 --> 1387.60] enemies, -[1388.60 --> 1389.64] who chose -[1389.64 --> 1390.10] to remain -[1390.10 --> 1390.76] nailed to the -[1390.76 --> 1391.66] cross and -[1391.66 --> 1392.14] prayed for -[1392.14 --> 1392.52] those who -[1392.52 --> 1392.88] put Him -[1392.88 --> 1393.16] there -[1393.16 --> 1393.70] in order -[1393.70 --> 1394.12] to bridge -[1394.12 --> 1394.58] the gap -[1394.58 --> 1395.34] between us -[1395.34 --> 1395.90] and God. -[1398.58 --> 1400.06] He reconciled -[1400.06 --> 1400.72] for us -[1400.72 --> 1401.40] our relationship -[1401.40 --> 1402.08] with God -[1402.08 --> 1403.10] and as we -[1403.10 --> 1403.56] grow in -[1403.56 --> 1404.00] relationship -[1404.00 --> 1404.50] with Him, -[1404.82 --> 1405.50] He empowers -[1405.50 --> 1406.18] us to bridge -[1406.18 --> 1406.76] the gap -[1406.76 --> 1407.82] with all -[1407.82 --> 1408.38] those around -[1408.38 --> 1409.96] us so that -[1409.96 --> 1410.42] we may -[1410.42 --> 1411.78] exemplify Him, -[1412.22 --> 1412.60] be a living -[1412.60 --> 1413.64] testimony to Him -[1413.64 --> 1414.64] and promote -[1414.64 --> 1415.32] flourishing -[1415.32 --> 1416.92] as a sign -[1416.92 --> 1417.74] of the truth -[1417.74 --> 1418.22] of who He -[1418.22 --> 1418.60] is. -[1421.66 --> 1422.14] We need -[1422.14 --> 1422.70] this now -[1422.70 --> 1423.18] more than -[1423.18 --> 1423.50] ever. -[1424.76 --> 1425.48] As we -[1425.48 --> 1426.18] scroll our -[1426.18 --> 1426.84] news feeds -[1426.84 --> 1427.34] that sow -[1427.34 --> 1427.86] division, -[1429.06 --> 1430.06] as COVID -[1430.06 --> 1431.14] polarizes us -[1431.14 --> 1431.60] as to how -[1431.60 --> 1432.32] to respond, -[1433.60 --> 1434.18] as the -[1434.18 --> 1434.62] American -[1434.62 --> 1435.22] political -[1435.22 --> 1435.84] circus -[1435.84 --> 1436.34] marches -[1436.34 --> 1436.74] on, -[1441.08 --> 1441.84] maybe we -[1441.84 --> 1442.20] can turn -[1442.20 --> 1442.62] off our -[1442.62 --> 1443.22] phones this -[1443.22 --> 1443.50] week, -[1443.76 --> 1444.60] just for a -[1444.60 --> 1445.00] half hour -[1445.00 --> 1445.38] longer, -[1446.08 --> 1447.78] and turn -[1447.78 --> 1448.14] on our -[1448.14 --> 1448.60] hearts, -[1449.66 --> 1450.28] engage in -[1450.28 --> 1450.40] our -[1450.40 --> 1450.92] relationship -[1450.92 --> 1451.64] with God -[1451.64 --> 1452.34] who loves -[1452.34 --> 1452.76] us. -[1455.78 --> 1456.64] When we -[1456.64 --> 1457.52] sincerely seek -[1457.52 --> 1458.22] God to have -[1458.22 --> 1458.74] relationship -[1458.74 --> 1459.32] with Him, -[1460.72 --> 1461.24] the more -[1461.24 --> 1461.86] we do it, -[1461.94 --> 1462.48] He changes -[1462.48 --> 1463.30] us from -[1463.30 --> 1463.70] zealots -[1463.70 --> 1464.40] looking to -[1464.40 --> 1465.22] kill those -[1465.22 --> 1465.70] who disagree -[1465.70 --> 1466.38] with us -[1466.38 --> 1467.40] to zealots -[1467.40 --> 1468.08] who engage -[1468.08 --> 1468.50] the world -[1468.50 --> 1469.24] around them, -[1470.74 --> 1471.64] gathering God's -[1471.64 --> 1472.22] children and -[1472.22 --> 1473.08] loving on all -[1473.08 --> 1473.46] who need -[1473.46 --> 1473.90] love. -[1474.40 --> 1475.20] We're filled -[1475.20 --> 1475.76] with love, -[1475.86 --> 1476.20] we're filled -[1476.20 --> 1477.04] with the -[1477.04 --> 1477.40] fruits of -[1477.40 --> 1477.96] His Spirit. -[1477.96 --> 1478.72] God -[1478.72 --> 1489.04] encounters us -[1489.04 --> 1489.44] today in -[1489.44 --> 1490.18] many ways, -[1491.18 --> 1492.12] but as I -[1492.12 --> 1492.40] have been -[1492.40 --> 1492.80] growing in -[1492.80 --> 1493.34] my faith -[1493.34 --> 1493.92] walk as a -[1493.92 --> 1494.26] Christian, -[1494.86 --> 1495.72] I have found -[1495.72 --> 1496.14] more and -[1496.14 --> 1496.80] more that it -[1496.80 --> 1497.16] is in the -[1497.16 --> 1497.54] Lord's -[1497.54 --> 1498.72] Supper I -[1498.72 --> 1499.16] encounter -[1499.16 --> 1500.84] Jesus -[1500.84 --> 1501.58] powerfully. -[1502.26 --> 1503.20] Like Simon -[1503.20 --> 1503.78] the Zealot -[1503.78 --> 1504.50] encountered -[1504.50 --> 1504.84] Jesus -[1504.84 --> 1505.42] powerfully, -[1505.62 --> 1506.36] like Paul -[1506.36 --> 1506.86] encountered -[1506.86 --> 1507.22] Jesus -[1507.22 --> 1507.82] powerfully. -[1508.40 --> 1508.76] There is -[1508.76 --> 1509.94] indeed a -[1509.94 --> 1510.32] powerful -[1510.32 --> 1511.06] mystery far -[1511.06 --> 1511.80] beyond bread -[1511.80 --> 1512.44] and juice. -[1515.40 --> 1515.98] Jesus -[1515.98 --> 1516.86] invited Matthew -[1516.86 --> 1517.36] the tax -[1517.36 --> 1518.06] collector and -[1518.06 --> 1518.62] Simon the -[1518.62 --> 1519.80] Zealot to -[1519.80 --> 1520.50] His table, -[1521.10 --> 1521.42] and He -[1521.42 --> 1521.90] broke bread -[1521.90 --> 1522.26] with them. -[1524.48 --> 1525.08] Today, -[1525.20 --> 1525.78] Jesus Christ -[1525.78 --> 1526.36] invites you -[1526.36 --> 1526.74] to His -[1526.74 --> 1527.68] table to -[1527.68 --> 1528.20] break bread. -[1531.42 --> 1532.00] Now, -[1532.12 --> 1532.68] a funny thing -[1532.68 --> 1533.18] happened to -[1533.18 --> 1533.58] me as I -[1533.58 --> 1534.16] was preparing -[1534.16 --> 1534.86] this sermon. -[1534.86 --> 1536.42] it felt like -[1536.42 --> 1536.82] one of those -[1536.82 --> 1537.30] times when -[1537.30 --> 1537.68] God's -[1537.68 --> 1538.20] winking at -[1538.20 --> 1538.40] you. -[1540.04 --> 1540.60] I was -[1540.60 --> 1540.80] eating -[1540.80 --> 1541.44] breakfast and -[1541.44 --> 1541.88] I did my -[1541.88 --> 1542.86] devotions and -[1542.86 --> 1543.34] it was on -[1543.34 --> 1544.12] Psalm 23. -[1545.50 --> 1546.26] And as I -[1546.26 --> 1546.60] read it, -[1546.64 --> 1547.18] this is what I -[1547.18 --> 1547.62] heard. -[1547.78 --> 1548.00] Now, -[1548.32 --> 1549.80] I've read -[1549.80 --> 1550.66] Psalm 23 a -[1550.66 --> 1551.46] million times, -[1551.46 --> 1552.42] but this day -[1552.42 --> 1553.20] I heard it -[1553.20 --> 1553.60] anew. -[1556.04 --> 1557.28] You prepare a -[1557.28 --> 1558.18] table for me -[1558.18 --> 1559.66] in the -[1559.66 --> 1560.56] presence of -[1560.56 --> 1561.32] my enemies. -[1564.00 --> 1564.56] You -[1564.56 --> 1565.06] anoint my -[1565.06 --> 1566.26] head with -[1566.26 --> 1566.72] oil and -[1566.72 --> 1567.14] my cup -[1567.14 --> 1567.88] overflows. -[1571.20 --> 1571.76] You -[1571.76 --> 1572.30] prepare a -[1572.30 --> 1572.90] table for -[1572.90 --> 1573.40] me in the -[1573.40 --> 1574.12] presence of -[1574.12 --> 1574.82] my enemies. -[1577.00 --> 1577.54] Now, -[1577.62 --> 1578.04] personally, -[1578.50 --> 1579.84] for this -[1579.84 --> 1580.48] verse of -[1580.48 --> 1581.10] Psalm 23, -[1581.22 --> 1581.56] I think in -[1581.56 --> 1582.14] the past -[1582.14 --> 1584.12] I maybe -[1584.12 --> 1584.50] had more -[1584.50 --> 1584.70] of a -[1584.70 --> 1585.38] vindictive -[1585.38 --> 1585.98] view of -[1585.98 --> 1586.24] this, -[1586.32 --> 1586.52] like it -[1586.52 --> 1588.16] was vindication, -[1588.18 --> 1589.00] maybe, -[1589.18 --> 1589.46] like, -[1589.74 --> 1589.96] ha, -[1590.18 --> 1590.76] see enemies? -[1591.18 --> 1591.64] God is with -[1591.64 --> 1591.88] me, -[1591.96 --> 1592.54] not you. -[1594.50 --> 1595.08] But I -[1595.08 --> 1595.38] think I -[1595.38 --> 1596.00] was wrong -[1596.00 --> 1596.42] in how I -[1596.42 --> 1596.78] was reading -[1596.78 --> 1597.16] this. -[1599.52 --> 1600.06] Perhaps -[1600.06 --> 1600.56] this is a -[1600.56 --> 1601.30] beautiful picture -[1601.30 --> 1602.66] of reconciled -[1602.66 --> 1603.30] relationships, -[1604.52 --> 1605.34] of peace -[1605.34 --> 1606.18] that -[1606.18 --> 1606.98] transcends -[1606.98 --> 1607.44] all -[1607.44 --> 1608.12] understanding. -[1609.48 --> 1610.02] These were -[1610.02 --> 1611.16] enemies and -[1611.16 --> 1611.68] now we -[1611.68 --> 1612.54] feast together. -[1614.06 --> 1614.70] The power -[1614.70 --> 1615.34] of God's -[1615.34 --> 1616.14] love to -[1616.14 --> 1616.54] overcome -[1616.54 --> 1617.04] our -[1617.04 --> 1617.88] brokenness. -[1618.18 --> 1621.12] this is a -[1621.12 --> 1621.48] picture of -[1621.48 --> 1621.82] the Last -[1621.82 --> 1622.28] Supper with -[1622.28 --> 1622.62] Jesus. -[1623.02 --> 1623.22] Both -[1623.22 --> 1623.88] Matthew and -[1623.88 --> 1624.94] Simon are -[1624.94 --> 1625.32] there, -[1626.16 --> 1626.58] former -[1626.58 --> 1627.12] enemies. -[1628.80 --> 1629.48] And Judas -[1629.48 --> 1630.08] is there -[1630.08 --> 1630.46] too, -[1630.60 --> 1631.02] isn't he? -[1632.30 --> 1633.18] They all -[1633.18 --> 1633.50] end up -[1633.50 --> 1634.00] betraying -[1634.00 --> 1634.36] Jesus. -[1634.70 --> 1635.10] Jesus is -[1635.10 --> 1635.62] alone on -[1635.62 --> 1636.18] the cross, -[1636.48 --> 1637.22] and he -[1637.22 --> 1637.82] knows what's -[1637.82 --> 1638.10] coming, -[1638.24 --> 1638.60] and yet he -[1638.60 --> 1639.16] breaks bread -[1639.16 --> 1639.54] with them. -[1639.54 --> 1641.54] God's -[1641.54 --> 1642.54] peace. -[1642.54 --> 1643.42] I wonder -[1643.42 --> 1644.24] if instead -[1644.24 --> 1644.84] we are -[1644.84 --> 1645.22] anointed -[1645.22 --> 1646.52] because we -[1646.52 --> 1647.14] break bread -[1647.14 --> 1647.60] with our -[1647.60 --> 1648.06] enemies, -[1648.66 --> 1649.76] because we -[1649.76 --> 1650.46] make God's -[1650.46 --> 1651.02] peace our -[1651.02 --> 1651.62] peace with -[1651.62 --> 1652.24] all people, -[1652.64 --> 1653.80] and this is a -[1653.80 --> 1654.54] sign of God's -[1654.54 --> 1655.42] work in us, -[1655.84 --> 1656.88] and he eats -[1656.88 --> 1657.46] with us and -[1657.46 --> 1658.40] anoints us as -[1658.40 --> 1658.96] his chosen. -[1662.76 --> 1663.28] Perhaps -[1663.28 --> 1664.00] God's peace -[1664.00 --> 1664.88] that transcends -[1664.88 --> 1665.72] all understanding -[1665.72 --> 1666.54] is not just a -[1666.54 --> 1667.56] peace despite -[1667.56 --> 1668.28] the broken -[1668.28 --> 1668.88] relationships -[1668.88 --> 1669.76] of this world, -[1670.50 --> 1671.94] but a peace -[1671.94 --> 1672.46] due to the -[1672.46 --> 1674.02] reconciling of -[1674.02 --> 1674.44] the broken -[1674.44 --> 1675.06] relationships -[1675.06 --> 1676.04] of this world. -[1678.94 --> 1679.74] There are -[1679.74 --> 1680.58] likely people -[1680.58 --> 1681.04] that are in -[1681.04 --> 1681.50] this church -[1681.50 --> 1682.16] right now -[1682.16 --> 1683.84] who have -[1683.84 --> 1684.46] disagreed in -[1684.46 --> 1685.06] the past, -[1685.18 --> 1685.74] or perhaps -[1685.74 --> 1686.16] are still -[1686.16 --> 1686.94] disagreeing on -[1686.94 --> 1687.36] things, -[1688.70 --> 1691.12] but such -[1691.12 --> 1691.74] is the power -[1691.74 --> 1692.26] of God's -[1692.26 --> 1692.70] love to -[1692.70 --> 1693.20] overcome, -[1694.36 --> 1694.76] to make -[1694.76 --> 1695.24] peace in -[1695.24 --> 1695.56] the midst -[1695.56 --> 1696.38] of squabbles, -[1696.90 --> 1697.24] today, -[1697.24 --> 1697.74] together, -[1697.98 --> 1698.66] we all -[1698.66 --> 1699.26] come to -[1699.26 --> 1699.76] God's -[1699.76 --> 1700.10] table. -[1701.20 --> 1701.74] He prepares -[1701.74 --> 1702.12] a table -[1702.12 --> 1702.54] for us -[1702.54 --> 1703.26] all and -[1703.26 --> 1703.82] encounters -[1703.82 --> 1704.96] us in -[1704.96 --> 1705.40] powerful -[1705.40 --> 1705.96] ways. -[1708.96 --> 1709.70] And as -[1709.70 --> 1710.30] we encounter -[1710.30 --> 1710.66] him, -[1710.96 --> 1711.32] we're -[1711.32 --> 1712.12] reconciled to -[1712.12 --> 1712.32] him, -[1712.46 --> 1712.96] and by the -[1712.96 --> 1713.28] Spirit, -[1713.42 --> 1714.62] God empowers -[1714.62 --> 1715.50] us and -[1715.50 --> 1716.00] gives us -[1716.00 --> 1716.60] the ministry -[1716.60 --> 1716.88] of -[1716.88 --> 1717.56] reconciliation. -[1719.74 --> 1720.44] Blessed are -[1720.44 --> 1721.24] the peacemakers, -[1721.96 --> 1722.70] for they will -[1722.70 --> 1723.10] be called -[1723.10 --> 1723.80] children of -[1723.80 --> 1724.08] heaven. -[1724.08 --> 1726.08] God's -[1726.08 --> 1726.22] home. -[1726.22 --> 1727.42] We -[1727.42 --> 1727.90] regularly -[1727.90 --> 1728.38] prepare -[1728.38 --> 1729.84] tables in -[1729.84 --> 1730.20] our own -[1730.20 --> 1730.54] home. -[1732.72 --> 1733.58] Who do -[1733.58 --> 1734.16] you invite -[1734.16 --> 1734.56] to your -[1734.56 --> 1735.66] table when -[1735.66 --> 1736.12] you prepare -[1736.12 --> 1736.60] a feast? -[1737.82 --> 1738.72] What does -[1738.72 --> 1739.34] Christmas Day -[1739.34 --> 1739.82] look like -[1739.82 --> 1740.24] for you? -[1742.18 --> 1743.02] How do -[1743.02 --> 1743.82] you exemplify -[1743.82 --> 1744.60] God's radical -[1744.60 --> 1745.22] love that -[1745.22 --> 1745.50] you've -[1745.50 --> 1746.02] experienced? -[1747.86 --> 1748.70] Have you -[1748.70 --> 1749.30] invited your -[1749.30 --> 1750.22] zealot and -[1750.22 --> 1750.78] tax collector -[1750.78 --> 1751.24] to join -[1751.24 --> 1751.54] you? -[1754.76 --> 1755.28] In the -[1755.28 --> 1755.48] name of -[1755.48 --> 1755.80] the Father, -[1755.96 --> 1756.52] Son, and -[1756.52 --> 1757.08] Holy Spirit, -[1758.16 --> 1759.24] pray with -[1759.24 --> 1759.50] me. -[1768.02 --> 1768.70] God of -[1768.70 --> 1769.00] both -[1769.00 --> 1770.14] Simon the -[1770.14 --> 1770.68] zealot and -[1770.68 --> 1771.16] Matthew the -[1771.16 --> 1771.86] tax collector, -[1772.70 --> 1775.24] thank you for -[1775.24 --> 1775.78] your gracious -[1775.78 --> 1776.66] invitation to -[1776.66 --> 1777.06] all. -[1779.20 --> 1779.82] Thank you, -[1779.90 --> 1780.18] Lord, that -[1780.18 --> 1781.42] you see beyond -[1781.42 --> 1782.08] our faults -[1782.08 --> 1782.72] and love us -[1782.72 --> 1783.32] so deeply. -[1785.66 --> 1786.66] We pray that -[1786.66 --> 1787.34] your love will -[1787.34 --> 1788.20] work in us -[1788.20 --> 1788.70] through your -[1788.70 --> 1791.20] Spirit, that -[1791.20 --> 1791.94] we too may -[1791.94 --> 1792.84] love as you -[1792.84 --> 1794.36] do, beyond -[1794.36 --> 1794.78] our own -[1794.78 --> 1796.20] capacity, beyond -[1796.20 --> 1797.10] worldly love. -[1798.78 --> 1799.74] God, encounter -[1799.74 --> 1800.76] us in new ways -[1800.76 --> 1801.46] today as we -[1801.46 --> 1802.40] partake in your -[1802.40 --> 1802.72] supper. -[1804.52 --> 1805.32] Empower us -[1805.32 --> 1806.14] with your love -[1806.14 --> 1807.10] that we may -[1807.10 --> 1807.80] engage with -[1807.80 --> 1809.10] others we -[1809.10 --> 1809.60] never thought -[1809.60 --> 1810.12] possible. -[1812.52 --> 1813.28] Anoint us, -[1813.44 --> 1814.90] Lord, that -[1814.90 --> 1815.52] we may prepare -[1815.52 --> 1816.18] a table in -[1816.18 --> 1816.76] the presence of -[1816.76 --> 1817.48] our enemies -[1817.48 --> 1820.88] reconciled, so -[1820.88 --> 1821.60] that we may be a -[1821.60 --> 1822.54] testimony to your -[1822.54 --> 1823.62] love, to your -[1823.62 --> 1824.54] power to change -[1824.54 --> 1825.20] hearts and -[1825.20 --> 1825.78] wills. -[1827.62 --> 1828.14] And journey -[1828.14 --> 1828.88] with us, Lord, -[1828.98 --> 1829.72] in the process. -[1830.38 --> 1831.14] Keep filling us -[1831.14 --> 1832.82] up when the gap -[1832.82 --> 1833.62] is too wide. -[1834.62 --> 1835.40] Fill us with your -[1835.40 --> 1837.58] Spirit, that we may -[1837.58 --> 1838.58] exude the fruits -[1838.58 --> 1839.44] of your Spirit. -[1841.92 --> 1842.40] Amen. diff --git a/God Prevails in the Lives of People (Sermon)_summary.txt b/God Prevails in the Lives of People (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c8a7424a1f8c8a0d78fb402ae65a2d08426d43c1..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/God Prevails in the Lives of People (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,27 +0,0 @@ -• The speaker returns to preaching after several weeks and reflects on the strangeness of 2020 -• The world is facing social injustice and brokenness, and the speaker acknowledges the need for prayer -• Today's sermon will focus on God prevailing in the lives of His people, but it won't specifically address racism or current events -• The text to be studied is Genesis 32:22-32, the story of Jacob wrestling with God -• The speaker plans to walk through each verse of the text and explore its application to contemporary life -• The story begins with Jacob crossing the Dabak river with most of his family, but staying behind himself -• Jacob is left alone on the other side of the river and has a wrestling match with a mysterious man that lasts until dawn -• The identity of the mystery man is unclear, but some interpretations suggest he could be an angel, Christ figure, or God incarnate -• Jacob's physical strength is highlighted through his past experiences, making it surprising when the mystery man dislocates his hip during their wrestling match -• Despite the pain and difficulty, Jacob refuses to let the mystery man go until he receives a blessing, showing a shift from physical struggle to spiritual focus -• Jacob's wrestling match with God in Genesis 32 -• The significance of names in the Old Testament, particularly Jacob/Israel and its meaning "deceiver/God prevails" -• How God changed Jacob's name to Israel as a symbol of His prevailing power over sin and death -• The implications of this name change for Jacob's descendants, including the nation of Israel -• The struggle of the nation of Israel throughout history to trust in God's provision and prevail over their enemies -• The promise of God's prevailing power being applicable to all people, not just the nation of Israel. -• The story of Jacob and his wrestling match with God teaches that self-sufficiency is incompatible with the work of God. -• Jacob's experience shows that his strength and efforts were not enough to prevail against God; only God's mercy and power saved him. -• As a result, Jacob was given a new name, Israel, and a physical reminder of God's presence in his life (a limp). -• The story highlights the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty and faithfulness despite human unworthiness. -• It emphasizes that salvation is by God's grace through faith, not by human works or effort. -• The passage concludes with a cultural practice (not eating certain meat) that serves as a reminder of God's promise to prevail in His people's lives. -• The power of faith to overcome worldly shackles and sin -• God's promise to prevail in lives, leading to freedom and transformation -• The struggle may be difficult, but God's prevailing is ultimate and transformative -• Importance of relying on God's strength and plan rather than personal efforts -• Prayer for God's intervention and empowerment through the Holy Spirit \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/God Prevails in the Lives of People (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/God Prevails in the Lives of People (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 8a0ad5d3487bddd91f3030dbda2ad0b7547d8655..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/God Prevails in the Lives of People (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,251 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 7.00] There we are, there we are. Nice and loud, coming through clearly. It's good to be with -[7.00 --> 10.50] you all once again this morning. It's been a few weeks since I've been here, and it's -[10.50 --> 16.40] a joy to be in this building again with so many familiar faces here as well. Even though -[16.40 --> 20.36] 2020 has been one of the strangest years, probably the strangest year that I have ever -[20.36 --> 25.52] lived through, in some ways it's actually flown by. I don't know about any of you, but -[25.52 --> 29.18] the last couple months for me especially have really seemed to truck along. I've had a very -[29.18 --> 35.16] full last couple of months. Since I last preached here on the 14th of June, I've done some camping, -[35.52 --> 40.74] I've done a lot of reading, I handily defeated both Matt and Aaron in golf. I wasn't even -[40.74 --> 46.04] close actually, it felt bad for them. And I started and finished a course on the book of -[46.04 --> 50.60] Genesis, which we're going to look at today. In those two months, of course, our world has -[50.60 --> 55.86] kept spinning as well. Once again, this week, social injustice, it's been brought to the -[55.86 --> 60.24] forefront of our minds. It's been all over the news due to another black man being shot -[60.24 --> 65.72] by a cop in Wisconsin. To remind you that while we can talk and while we can listen and while -[65.72 --> 72.26] there's things posted on social media, we live in a very, very broken world. And it's full -[72.26 --> 75.38] of sin, and it's in need of much prayer. -[75.38 --> 82.58] Today's sermon is going to be about God prevailing in the lives of His people. Now, today's not -[82.58 --> 88.34] specifically a text on racism. It's not specifically a text on social injustice. -[89.32 --> 96.04] And I don't want to be guilty of trying to spin God's Word and fit it into a context that we find -[96.04 --> 100.88] ourselves this week here in 2020 North America, because I don't think you can manipulate the Word -[100.88 --> 107.24] of God that way. But I don't want to shy away from the reality of the culture and the times that we -[107.24 --> 114.00] find ourselves in as well. What I want to do is I want to open up the Word of God today, and I want -[114.00 --> 120.78] to let God speak through that Word. This is a text about God prevailing over all. So while I read it, -[120.78 --> 125.36] I want to challenge us all while we think about this. We can think about this ancient story that -[125.36 --> 132.62] happened so long ago. How do we grasp the deep-rooted truths within this story, and how do -[132.62 --> 138.60] we apply it to this context that we find it today? See, God prevailing over all, it might just be the -[138.60 --> 144.28] greatest hope that we have in the midst of all of this stuff happening right now. So in that vein, -[144.32 --> 147.32] I'd like to challenge you all, and actually not challenge you, I'd like to encourage you all. I hope -[147.32 --> 151.80] many of you have your Bibles with you here. If you're online, please grab a Bible close to you. Hit -[151.80 --> 156.82] pause even if you have to, and go grab your Bibles. We're going to read through this story -[156.82 --> 165.08] of Jacob wrestling God. It's found in Genesis 32, verses 22 to 32. It's a lot of twos. Genesis 32, -[165.18 --> 169.56] 22 to 32. Now we're going to read the whole thing through first, and then my message, I'm going to do -[169.56 --> 173.26] something a little bit different today. We're going to walk our way through each verse, one or two verses -[173.26 --> 177.84] at a time, and we're going to specifically dissect it that way. So you're going to want to have your -[177.84 --> 185.60] Bibles open in front of you as well this whole time. So Genesis 32, verses 22 to 32. It reads like -[185.60 --> 194.06] this. That night Jacob got up and took his two wives, his two female servants, and his eleven sons, -[194.56 --> 201.68] and crossed the ford of the Jabbok. After he had sent them across the stream, he sent over all his -[201.68 --> 209.66] possessions. So Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him till daybreak. When the man saw -[209.66 --> 215.02] that he could not overpower him, he touched the socket of Jacob's hip so that his hip was wrenched -[215.02 --> 220.34] as he wrestled with the man. Then the man said, let me go, for it is daybreak. But Jacob replied, -[220.44 --> 228.38] I will not let you go unless you bless me. The man asked him, what is your name? Jacob, he answered. -[228.38 --> 233.36] Then the man said, your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with -[233.36 --> 239.78] God and with humans and have overcome. Jacob said, please tell me your name. But he replied, -[239.86 --> 245.70] why do you ask my name? And then he blessed him there. So Jacob called the place Peniel, saying, -[245.88 --> 252.66] it is because I saw God face to face, and yet my life was spared. The sun rose above him, and he passed -[252.66 --> 258.32] Peniel, and he was limping because of his hip. Therefore, to this day, the Israelites do not eat the -[258.32 --> 263.62] tendon attached to the socket of the hip, because the socket of Jacob's hip was touched near the -[263.62 --> 271.32] tendon. The reading, the word. And before we dig into these verses, we do have to figure out how we -[271.32 --> 276.06] got here. Where does this story fit into the grand story? Well, after spending years away from his family, -[276.26 --> 284.26] Jacob has now decided he wants to return home. He wants to return home. He wants to confront his -[284.26 --> 289.92] brother, whom you might remember. Jacob tricked Esau, his brother, out of his blessing, out of his -[289.92 --> 295.46] birthright. As he got closer to home, though, Jacob's fear of his brother and what Esau might do to him -[295.46 --> 301.40] grew, and he was getting nervous about meeting him again. But he trudged onward, and he actually even -[301.40 --> 306.38] sent a peace offering, a gift ahead of him, to meet with Esau, maybe to soften the blow a little bit. -[306.38 --> 313.88] Now, lots had changed since Jacob had left. He had married Leah and Rachel. He had obtained a number -[313.88 --> 319.50] of servants. He even had enough children to form a new reality TV contract at that time. -[320.28 --> 324.84] He's got a ton of possessions. Most of those possessions, he actually tricked his uncle Laban -[324.84 --> 332.14] out of. And now he was very close to home. He just had to cross this one last river. And that's where -[332.14 --> 337.18] our text begins. So again, we're going to go through this verse by verse, one verse at a time, -[337.22 --> 339.50] and we're actually going to start—I lied—we're going to start with two verses. We're going to -[339.50 --> 342.70] start with these first two verses, because it sort of sets the scene for this text. -[342.94 --> 347.42] That night, Jacob got up, and he took his two wives, his two female servants, and his eleven sons -[347.42 --> 352.62] and crossed the fort of the Dabak. After he had sent them across the stream, he sent over all his -[352.62 --> 358.18] possessions. So after sending a peace offering ahead of him to meet with Esau ahead of time, -[358.18 --> 362.62] Jacob sends his wives, his servants, his children, and his possessions across the river. -[363.50 --> 369.98] But Jacob doesn't go. He doesn't cross the Dabak with his family. It's actually a little bit unclear -[369.98 --> 374.96] why he doesn't go. The chapter beforehand, he spent praying to God. He was really nervous about meeting -[374.96 --> 380.66] his brother, and so perhaps it was anxiety or fear that kept him on the other side of this river. -[381.82 --> 385.40] That being said, it was actually really important for the events of this story that he was alone, -[385.40 --> 393.22] so it might have been even providential that he doesn't go. Either way, Jacob's alone on the one -[393.22 --> 399.84] side of a river, and he's there for the night. And then we get to what we might assume is the climax -[399.84 --> 405.78] of this story already here in verse 24, and that reads like this, so Jacob was left alone, -[405.78 --> 415.16] and a man wrestled with him till daybreak. Jacob was alone at night, and he wrestled a mysterious man -[415.16 --> 422.42] until dawn. That's the most well-known part of this story, that the wrestling match between Jacob and -[422.42 --> 427.98] this mystery man. However, it actually only makes up one small part of one verse in this whole 10-verse -[427.98 --> 433.78] story. That's crazy, isn't it? I find that fascinating. That shows that perhaps the main point of this -[433.78 --> 440.04] story is not actually this wrestling match. It's not actually this fight between this man. So let's hold -[440.04 --> 444.12] on to that for a second while we continue to look at this verse a little closer. There's two things about -[444.12 --> 450.70] this verse that stand out. The first is, we don't know anything about this man right now. The text -[450.70 --> 456.48] reveals nothing about his identity yet. And so at this point, we're left to wonder, who is this man? -[456.60 --> 465.04] Why does he wrestle with Jacob? The second is that this wrestling match was probably hours long. -[467.04 --> 471.58] An hours-long wrestling match between Jacob and this mystery man occurs. Now, it would have taken -[471.58 --> 479.18] a ton of energy and a ton of strength for Jacob to wrestle this man for hours at night. But if we -[479.18 --> 483.56] look at Jacob's life, we realize that physical strength is a large characterization of it. -[484.54 --> 489.18] In Genesis 25, right at the beginning when he's born, he grabs the heel of Esau, his twin brother, -[489.26 --> 495.04] as he's coming out of the womb. In Genesis 29, he moves this giant stone away from a well -[495.04 --> 502.12] so that Rachel, his future wife's sheep, can drink. And in Genesis 31, it says that he worked at Laban's -[502.12 --> 510.04] herd for 20 years in extremely difficult condition. His own physical strength was something that Jacob -[510.04 --> 516.16] had come to depend on all his life. And so this wrestling match for a knight was something that -[516.16 --> 521.32] he could excel at. And yet, this is a story that we'll find out about transformation. -[521.32 --> 529.04] And what Jacob goes through because of this man changes him forever. Verse 25, we'll keep moving -[529.04 --> 533.94] on. When the man saw that he could not overpower him, so the man could not overpower Jacob, -[534.44 --> 540.40] he touched the socket of Jacob's hip so that his hip was wretched or dislocated, as other translations -[540.40 --> 547.54] say, as he wrestled with him. So this mystery man realizes that Jacob's not giving up. He's not -[547.54 --> 553.36] going to let up. He's going to keep wrestling. And so he touches Jacob's hip, and he dislocates it. -[556.10 --> 559.32] Now, only someone with supernatural powers could do that. Agreed? -[561.94 --> 566.26] Now, there's a few thoughts on who the supernatural man, who the supernatural being could be. -[566.64 --> 571.66] In Hosea, in his book, in chapter 12, Hosea calls this man in this story an angel. -[572.84 --> 576.32] St. Augustine, a little bit later, he thinks this man was actually a Christ figure, -[576.32 --> 580.58] Christ coming down early and wrestling with Jacob. Jacob later on in this story, we'll find out later, -[580.90 --> 582.28] he thinks it was God himself. -[585.08 --> 590.58] But be it an angel, be it a Christ figure, be it physically God incarnate, -[592.14 --> 598.30] for us here today, the importance is not who this man was, but who this man represented. -[598.30 --> 608.92] He represented the living God. Jacob wrestled with God that night, either literally or symbolically. -[609.58 --> 613.38] But the significance of the interaction remains, whether this man was an angel, -[613.86 --> 619.94] Christ himself, or God incarnate. And so God initiates this wrestling match with Jacob, -[619.94 --> 625.62] and when Jacob doesn't back down, God makes life even more difficult for him by dislocating -[625.62 --> 632.22] his hip. Now, this to me raises all sorts of questions. Why would a good God come down to -[632.22 --> 639.02] earth and physically harm someone? Why would God intervene in someone's life only to cause them -[639.02 --> 646.36] pain? As the story continues, we start to see some answers to those questions. Even though Jacob's hip -[646.36 --> 652.02] gets dislocated, the wrestling continues. But here the story shifts a little bit. You'll notice the -[652.02 --> 657.02] tone shifts. Up until now, it's just this physical battle between two men, but the tone is about to -[657.02 --> 667.74] change. Verse 26, then the man said, let me go, for it is daybreak. But Jacob replied, I will not let you -[667.74 --> 677.20] go unless you bless me. That is strange, isn't it? I find that very peculiar. Jacob's been wrestling -[677.20 --> 682.50] with this man all night, fighting this man for hours, and then all of a sudden, he doesn't actually -[682.50 --> 692.94] care about winning the fight anymore. He wants a blessing. Now Jacob's crippled in his physical -[692.94 --> 699.86] strength with his hip, and all of a sudden, he becomes very bold in his faith. See, even though -[699.86 --> 705.28] the text doesn't identify who this man is until a little bit later, the fact that Jacob believed -[705.28 --> 712.20] that this man could bless him is a telltale sign that he understood who this man represented, or perhaps -[712.20 --> 720.46] who this man was. Jacob, the stealer of his brother's blessing, was now looking for a blessing -[720.46 --> 728.12] from God. And while the wrestling match between God and Jacob is the centerpiece of this story, -[728.68 --> 734.18] it's these next two verses that we're going to read in a second, verses 27 and 28, that contain -[734.18 --> 740.54] the deep-rooted truths in this story for us today. Verse 27 and 28, they read like this, -[741.38 --> 749.34] the man asked him, what is your name? Jacob, he answered. Then the man said, your name will no longer -[749.34 --> 757.60] be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome, -[758.28 --> 767.72] or as the ESV more accurately puts it, have prevailed. That's it. That's the focal point of this story. -[767.98 --> 772.46] While the emphasis of the story is the wrestling match for sure, the purpose of that wrestling match, -[772.46 --> 782.16] the reason the wrestling match was initiated in the first place was to bless Jacob and change his name. -[784.06 --> 789.66] Names are important. They were especially important back in the ancient Near East. They signified -[789.66 --> 795.56] one's character or one's personality. In the cultures of the Old Testament, your name was linked to your -[795.56 --> 802.04] nature. So what you were named often reflected the person that you would become. For example, -[802.72 --> 812.42] Abraham means father of many. Ruth means friend. Ezra means help. Jeremiah means God will raise up. -[813.18 --> 820.94] All of those people in the Old Testament embodied what their names meant. So what does Jacob mean? -[820.94 --> 832.44] It means deceiver. Something that he did all his life. For years, Jacob relied on himself and his own -[832.44 --> 838.62] wit to get through life. He deceived his way to his brother's inheritance in Genesis chapter 27. He tricked -[838.62 --> 844.96] his uncle Laban into getting the best herds for himself in Genesis chapter 30, and he misleads his uncle -[844.96 --> 852.84] once again in Genesis 31 as he flees from him. Jacob relies on himself all his life. He relies on his -[852.84 --> 863.22] strength. He relies on his deception. But God changes that. God had a new plan. God changed Jacob's name. -[864.60 --> 872.08] No longer was he Jacob the deceiver. Now he was Israel, which means God prevails. -[872.08 --> 878.64] Jacob wasn't going to be the deceiver anymore. He wasn't going to be able to rely on himself going -[878.64 --> 885.62] forward. God was stepping in, and he was taking charge of Jacob's life. First, God chose to fight -[885.62 --> 895.10] with Jacob, dislocating his hip in the process. Second, God was going to fight for Jacob, for Israel, -[895.90 --> 898.14] prevailing for him and prevailing for his future. -[898.14 --> 903.66] We're going to stay on these two verses for a while because it's so important. Then this new name -[903.66 --> 909.22] for Jacob, it has far-reaching implications for his descendants as well. See, the nation, of course, -[909.38 --> 916.10] was named after Jacob's new name. The nation was Israel, symbolizing how God was going to prevail for -[916.10 --> 922.34] them as well. God would lead them to triumph over their enemies and fight for them throughout time. -[922.34 --> 928.40] And then, in the ultimate act of God prevailing for his people, God is going to send his Son, -[928.92 --> 934.42] Jesus Christ, to die on the cross and defeat sin and death for all who believe. -[937.96 --> 939.60] God prevails. -[939.60 --> 949.56] God prevails. However, while we know how the story gets from Jacob to the cross, and we know what God's -[949.56 --> 956.90] plan was with Christ's death and resurrection for us, we also know how the nation of Israel -[956.90 --> 964.22] struggled with this promise throughout history. Countless times throughout the Old Testament, -[964.22 --> 970.72] the nation of Israel forgets that God is on their side prevailing for them. And what's fascinating -[970.72 --> 978.78] is this is all tied to Jacob's name as well. There was another name change in Genesis. In Genesis -[978.78 --> 984.62] chapter 17, there's a man named Abram, and before God gives his covenant, God changes Abram's name to -[984.62 --> 990.30] Abraham, and from that point on in the Bible, he is only referred to as Abraham. That was his new name. -[990.30 --> 997.26] Well, there's a name change here too in Genesis 32. But Jacob is not called Jacob, or not called -[997.26 --> 1002.40] Israel for the rest of Scripture. The rest of Scripture uses Jacob and Israel interchangeably -[1002.40 --> 1008.00] throughout. He calls them by both names throughout all of Scripture. For example, this story takes -[1008.00 --> 1016.52] place in Genesis 32. But going forward, the Bible refers to this man as Jacob in Genesis 35 verse 14, -[1016.52 --> 1024.68] Genesis 37 verse 1, and Genesis 42 verse 29. But he's also called Israel in Genesis 35 verse 22, -[1024.68 --> 1030.60] in Genesis 43 verse 11, and in Genesis 46 verse 1. Jacob and Israel get interchanged throughout the entire -[1030.60 --> 1036.82] book of the Bible. And it's really highlighted actually in Psalm 147 verse 19, and in that one verse, -[1037.48 --> 1043.42] the psalmist refers to both the person and the nation as Jacob and Israel in the same sentence. -[1046.52 --> 1053.08] Even though God changed Jacob's name from deceiver to God prevails, he has called both names throughout -[1053.08 --> 1060.82] Scripture from that point on, and this highlights that even though God prevails, Israel, the man, -[1061.38 --> 1068.76] the nation, his descendants sitting in this room today, they continue to rely on themselves. -[1068.76 --> 1077.74] Even though this story is talking about God taking Jacob the deceiver and showing him that he no longer -[1077.74 --> 1083.20] needs to rely on himself anymore, that God prevails, and even though the truth of that provision has been -[1083.20 --> 1092.24] true throughout history, Jacob would still fail to lean into God's provision and rely on him. -[1092.24 --> 1102.84] And that should hit us right in the heart. Because that promise of God's prevailing, of God's provision -[1102.84 --> 1109.46] is for us all, and yet we're all guilty of going our own way, doing our own thing, using deception -[1109.46 --> 1116.98] to get what we want. We rely on ourselves, not on God. Sometimes we're good. Sometimes we follow God. -[1116.98 --> 1122.30] Sometimes we depend on him. We lean on him when things get weary. Sometimes we are Israels. -[1123.82 --> 1131.24] But other times we don't. We rely on our own understanding. Sometimes we're selfish. Sometimes -[1131.24 --> 1137.60] we're short-sighted. Sometimes we're independent rather than dependent on God. And sometimes we're Jacobs. -[1137.60 --> 1149.48] And while that tension exists in all our lives, this story is not over. God was still highlighting -[1149.48 --> 1156.64] some very important truths to Jacob, now Israel, and those truths trickled down to all of us here -[1156.64 --> 1162.36] today. Let's keep reading. Verse 29. Verse 29 says this, Jacob said, please tell me your name -[1162.36 --> 1168.72] to this mystery man. But he replied, why do you ask my name? And then he blessed him there. -[1170.08 --> 1175.00] Now there's a parallel between this verse and a verse found in Judges 13. In Judges, an angelic -[1175.00 --> 1180.12] messenger visits Samson's parents and tells them that they will have a son. But when the parents ask -[1180.12 --> 1187.52] the angel's name, the angel refuses, for they would not understand anyways. The language in that story -[1187.52 --> 1193.32] and this story are remarkably similar. This is a similar situation. Jacob, though, has refused to -[1193.32 --> 1197.18] know the name of this, of his assailant, of this man who wrestled with him. -[1200.52 --> 1207.52] But he has given a new name. And instead, God blesses him. And he promises him that he, that God will -[1207.52 --> 1213.62] prevail on his behalf. Verse 30. So Jacob called the place Peniel, saying, it is because I saw God face to -[1213.62 --> 1221.90] face, and yet my life was spared. So after Jacob receives a new name and a blessing, Jacob, he's once -[1221.90 --> 1231.58] again left alone. In this verse, though, Jacob comes to a very important discovery. He calls the place -[1231.58 --> 1237.74] Peniel, which means the face of God. And the reason for him changing the name of this place is very -[1237.74 --> 1244.44] important. Notice this. Jacob does not say that he wrestled with God and prevailed, or that he deceived -[1244.44 --> 1251.42] God and got the blessing he wanted. He called the place Peniel because he saw God face to face, -[1252.24 --> 1262.88] and his life was spared. Jacob realized that it was only for God's mercy that he escaped that with his life. -[1262.88 --> 1269.36] It had nothing to do with him. It had nothing to do with his strength. It had nothing to do with his -[1269.36 --> 1277.34] deception. It had nothing to do with anything he could bring to the table. It was all God. No longer -[1277.34 --> 1283.78] was he in charge of his own narrative, but God's grace had interceded and showed Jacob that he only -[1283.78 --> 1291.06] existed because God prevailed in his life. No matter what obstacles would appear before him going forward, -[1291.06 --> 1296.94] God promised to prevail for him. Again, like he promises for all of us. -[1299.16 --> 1305.24] Verse 31, the sun rose above him as he passed Peniel, and he was limping because of his hip. -[1307.54 --> 1311.28] It's interesting, Jacob left this altercation a new man in more ways than one. -[1312.76 --> 1318.60] Yes, he got his name changed, but now he was actually physically forced to rely on God's strength -[1318.60 --> 1325.56] rather than his own because he now walked with this limp. This was a new man, not only marked with a new -[1325.56 --> 1333.20] spiritual perspective, but a new physical reality as well, sealed and marked by God as he continued on -[1333.20 --> 1342.92] his journey. And just like Jacob now walked with a limp, sometimes when God intercedes in our lives, -[1342.92 --> 1349.80] sure, the promises are great. The ramification of God taking over is amazing, but the reality is that -[1349.80 --> 1359.52] sometimes when God intercedes, we may be left limping. We may be left limping, unable to rely on our own -[1359.52 --> 1368.70] strength. Sometimes when God takes over our lives, he reminds us that he is the only way forward. -[1368.70 --> 1380.56] We all have our limps. The challenge is to view those limps as reminders of how God is in control -[1380.56 --> 1385.00] and not view them as obstacles that we have to overcome ourselves. -[1388.28 --> 1390.76] Finally, the last verse of this story says this, -[1390.84 --> 1394.62] Therefore, to this day the Israelites do not eat the tendon attached to the socket of the hip, -[1394.62 --> 1400.32] because the socket of Jacob's hip was touched near the tendon. So this passage ends with this cultural -[1400.32 --> 1405.02] practice that God's people would follow from that day forward. No longer would they eat the meat found -[1405.02 --> 1411.10] in that location of the thigh where Jacob's hip was touched by God, because by doing that, -[1411.32 --> 1416.90] the Israelites were then constantly reminded of this promise that God would prevail in their lives. -[1416.90 --> 1420.42] So what do we take from this story? -[1423.60 --> 1428.80] Jacob was taught that he no longer was going to be able to lean on his own strengths, -[1429.30 --> 1434.16] but that he needed the power of God's provision, the power of God's prevailing presence -[1434.16 --> 1440.06] and faithfulness to walk alongside him. The nation of Israel then, Jacob's descendants, -[1440.26 --> 1445.42] would learn much the same thing. Israel's ultimate victory was never going to come -[1445.42 --> 1454.66] by their own power. It was going to come by the grace and mercy of God. Both of the Israels then, -[1454.76 --> 1460.84] the man and the nation, would learn that self-sufficiency is incompatible with the work of God. -[1461.84 --> 1471.58] Faith alone overcomes the world. Self-sufficiency is incompatible with the work of God. Faith alone -[1471.58 --> 1479.06] overcomes the world. G.J. Wenham sums this story up nicely. He says this, he says, -[1479.14 --> 1484.42] God's sovereignty and faithfulness to his promise, despite all human unworthiness, -[1484.94 --> 1492.76] is demonstrated right here. Jacob is no longer the strong, victorious controller of the divine, -[1492.76 --> 1500.72] but he's now Israel, who is totally dependent on God's grace. -[1502.50 --> 1509.68] Brothers and sisters, that should be our realization as well. As the Apostle Paul wrote thousands of -[1509.68 --> 1515.28] years later to the church in Ephesus, it is by grace that you have been saved through faith, -[1515.28 --> 1523.86] and this is not from yourselves. It is a gift from God, not by works, so that no one can boast. -[1525.76 --> 1532.18] Self-sufficiency is incompatible with the work of God. Jacob's new name, which was birthed from his -[1532.18 --> 1539.94] wrestling match with God, it highlights this beautifully. And so we're to go out with this -[1539.94 --> 1545.48] knowledge. We're supposed to understand that it is by faith that we can overcome the shackles of this -[1545.48 --> 1552.58] world. It is through God who promises to prevail in our lives so that we are free to live out this truth, -[1553.72 --> 1562.14] unhindered by the sin that so easily entangles us. God will prevail in our lives. -[1562.14 --> 1572.50] It might be a fight. God's prevailing might cause us to limp even. But God will transform us, -[1572.94 --> 1580.42] and we can rest in the power of the cross and the grace found in our Lord Jesus Christ as the ultimate -[1580.42 --> 1586.00] act of God's prevailing for our lives. Amen. Please pray with me. -[1586.00 --> 1594.22] Our Father in heaven, we hear a story like this, -[1595.32 --> 1601.68] and when we read it for its face value, sometimes it's hard to see all the nuance in it, Lord. -[1604.34 --> 1608.58] And God, we see how you intervened in Jacob's life and how you promised to prevail for him, -[1609.42 --> 1614.18] and we know that that promise was true for his descendants and for us as well. -[1614.18 --> 1619.94] But Lord, we are so often guilty of trying to take charge of our own lives, trying to do things -[1619.94 --> 1626.36] ourselves, forgetting that you have a plan for all of us. And so, God, we pray that you will intervene -[1626.36 --> 1636.60] in our lives. Lord, you have sent your Spirit here to do just that, and we ask that the Spirit empower us -[1636.60 --> 1642.80] to know that you are continually prevailing in our lives. You have prevailed already at the cross, -[1642.80 --> 1648.40] Lord. Grace and mercy is for us, and we are grateful for that. And God, as we enter into -[1648.40 --> 1657.42] this week upcoming, Lord, we ask that we rely on your strength, not ours. We pray this in your name. Amen. -[1657.42 --> 1657.52] Amen. -[1657.52 --> 1657.56] Amen. -[1657.56 --> 1657.60] Amen. diff --git a/Good Friday - April 15, 2022_summary.txt b/Good Friday - April 15, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 107a3d1b26b053d8d9d06ea420362c8ecc38d820..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Good Friday - April 15, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,65 +0,0 @@ -• Discussion of Christ's sacrifice and salvation -• Praise to God for His greatness -• The name of Jesus as a powerful and beautiful name -• The glory and reign of God -• The power and authority of the name of Jesus -• Introduction to Good Friday worship service -• Reflection on Christ's death and its significance for believers today -• Worship and singing of hymns and scripture readings from Isaiah 53 -• Discussion of God's will to crush Jesus and cause him to suffer for sin -• Themes of salvation, redemption, and justification through Jesus' suffering and sacrifice -• The speaker discusses the sacrifice of Christ and its significance in atoning for sin. -• The speaker expresses devotion to God, acknowledging their own sinfulness and deservingness of punishment. -• The speaker asks how they can adequately express gratitude and praise for God's love and salvation. -• The speaker confesses past failures and shortcomings, asking for forgiveness and restoration. -• The speaker offers themselves completely to God, seeking to be used by Him in service and worship. -• The repetition of the phrase "How I am yours" is a declaration of submission and surrender to God's will. -• Repeated phrases and songs about God's love and mercy -• Reading of Mark 15:16-28, describing Jesus' crucifixion -• Reflection on the significance of Good Friday and the death of Jesus -• Prayer to open hearts and minds to understand the true story of Jesus' sacrifice -• Discussion of Jesus as the good shepherd who laid down his life for his sheep -• Jesus' last words on the cross: "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" -• The reaction of those standing near the cross and their false assumption that Jesus is calling Elijah -• The attempted treatment of Jesus with wine vinegar and the subsequent cry for Elijah -• The moment when Jesus breathes his last and the tearing of the temple curtain -• A centurion's realization that Jesus was the Son of God -• The question of why Jesus had to die, which is explored through Mark's gospel and its account of Good Friday -• The false testimony against Jesus in chapter 14 of Mark, including a manipulated version of his words about destroying the temple -• Jesus' silence in response to the accusations against him -• The high priest's final question: "Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?" -• The title "Son of God" had a different meaning in Jesus' time and was associated with messianic expectations -• In Jewish culture, the phrase "Son of God" referred to a king chosen by God as his representative, anointed with authority and power -• Similarly in Roman culture, emperors were referred to as "son of God" -• Jesus answers the high priest's question about being the Son of God by saying "I am", referencing his divine identity -• The phrase "Son of Man" is another messianic title, based on a vision from Daniel 7 where a figure comes on clouds and is given authority and power -• Jesus' use of this language emphasizes his divine nature and sovereignty -• The glory of God is described as a cloud that rests over the Ark of the Covenant -• Jesus says he will come on the clouds of heaven, referring to the Shekinah glory or presence of God -• The same picture is seen in 1 Thessalonians 4, where Paul writes about Jesus coming down from heaven with a loud command and the voice of the archangel -• The focus is not on escaping the world but on the glory of God coming down to this world -• The Bible does not teach a secret rapture or escape, but rather being raised up and enraptured by the glory of God -• The glory of God breaking free into the whole world requires a cross, as seen in the story of Jesus' crucifixion -• People who witnessed Jesus' miracles and teaching still mocked and ridiculed him on the cross -• A storybook series is discussed, where the author uses allegory to convey Christian themes -• The character Justin in the story is revealed to be a representation of Jesus Christ -• The author initially dislikes and despises Justin's actions in the story, but later realizes his mistake -• Isaiah 53 is referenced as a biblical passage that describes Jesus' suffering and death -• It is suggested that the author and listeners are actually representing the people who mocked and rejected Jesus in the Bible -• The Lord's cross and Jesus' cry of "Eloi, Eloi, Lema Sebastone" referencing Psalm 22 -• Jesus is experiencing the punishment for sin, feeling the consequence of sin and bearing it on the cross -• He loses the Father due to humanity's loss of God -• His death on the cross brings salvation from judgment and makes a way for humans to approach God -• The tearing of the temple curtain symbolizes this new access to God's presence -• The centurion's declaration that Jesus is the Son of God confirms this understanding -• Roman centurion sees Jesus as the Son of God -• Mark's Gospel emphasizes that this is a singular understanding, unique to the centurion -• The story highlights the importance of faith and perspective in recognizing Jesus' true nature -• Demons in the story recognize Jesus but it is only the centurion who has his heart reordered by seeing him as the Son of God -• The sermon emphasizes the significance of Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday, and encourages listeners to see Jesus on the cross with a new understanding -• The Roman centurion confirms Jesus' death -• Joseph is given the body of Jesus and buries it in a tomb cut out of rock -• A stone is rolled against the entrance of the tomb -• The crucifixion of Jesus is reflected upon through song and questions -• Reflection on the events leading up to Jesus' burial, including his cry of "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?" -• Repeated questioning about being present at key moments in Jesus' death and burial \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Good Friday - April 15, 2022_transcript.txt b/Good Friday - April 15, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 91e06d0fe5dc1647e050afe07c3229b43578b9d6..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Good Friday - April 15, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,907 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 9.36] I grant Him to die, I scarce can take it in -[9.36 --> 18.90] That on the cross, my burden gladly bearing -[18.90 --> 28.70] He bled and died to take away my sin -[28.70 --> 39.70] Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee -[39.70 --> 50.68] How great Thou art, how great Thou art -[50.68 --> 60.68] Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee -[60.68 --> 73.68] How great Thou art, how great Thou art -[73.68 --> 97.16] When Christ shall come -[97.16 --> 101.48] With shout of acclamation -[101.48 --> 106.16] And take me home -[106.16 --> 112.16] What joy shall fill my heart -[112.16 --> 122.16] Then I shall bow in humble adoration -[122.16 --> 132.16] And then proclaim, my God, how great Thou art -[132.16 --> 143.16] Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee -[143.16 --> 153.16] How great Thou art, how great Thou art -[153.16 --> 166.16] How great Thou art, how great Thou art -[166.16 --> 170.16] How great Thou art, how great Thou art -[170.16 --> 183.16] How great Thou art, how great Thou art -[183.16 --> 185.16] How great Thou art -[185.16 --> 189.16] How great Thou art -[189.16 --> 192.16] Now ti's�� lay their own -[192.16 --> 202.16] Thou art, how great Thou art -[202.16 --> 202.76] Praise Him. -[225.72 --> 230.46] You were the word at the beginning. -[230.46 --> 237.46] One with God, the Lord Most High. -[239.46 --> 244.64] Your hidden glory in creation. -[246.20 --> 251.50] Now revealed in you, our Christ. -[251.94 --> 254.46] What a beautiful name it is. -[255.32 --> 258.62] What a beautiful name it is. -[258.62 --> 264.92] The name of Jesus Christ, my King. -[265.72 --> 269.12] What a beautiful name it is. -[269.62 --> 272.38] Nothing compares to this. -[272.96 --> 275.88] What a beautiful name it is. -[276.10 --> 279.44] The name of Jesus. -[279.44 --> 281.62] What a beautiful name it is. -[281.62 --> 284.44] The name of Jesus Christ, my King. -[284.54 --> 290.44] You didn't want heaven without us. -[291.44 --> 296.44] So Jesus, you brought heaven down. -[296.44 --> 304.28] My sin was great, Your love was greater -[304.28 --> 311.48] What could separate us now? -[311.48 --> 314.94] What a wonderful name it is -[314.94 --> 318.40] What a wonderful name it is -[318.40 --> 325.04] The name of Jesus Christ my King -[325.04 --> 329.00] What a wonderful name it is -[329.00 --> 332.64] Nothing compares to this -[332.64 --> 335.84] What a wonderful name it is -[335.84 --> 339.42] The name of Jesus -[339.42 --> 342.88] What a wonderful name it is -[342.88 --> 346.52] The name of Jesus -[355.04 --> 369.00] What a wonderful name it is -[369.00 --> 372.84] What a wonderful name it is -[372.84 --> 376.80] What a wonderful name it is -[376.80 --> 379.80] How sweet as your name Lord -[379.80 --> 382.80] How good you are -[382.80 --> 386.64] We love to sing in the name Lord -[386.64 --> 389.80] We love to sing who you are -[389.80 --> 392.76] Death could not hold you -[392.76 --> 396.76] The veil tore before you -[396.76 --> 403.76] You silenced the boast of sin and breaking -[403.76 --> 407.26] The heavens are roaring -[407.26 --> 410.76] The praise of your glory -[410.76 --> 416.72] For you are raised to life again -[416.72 --> 420.56] You have no rival -[420.56 --> 424.22] You have no equal -[424.22 --> 430.72] Now and forever God you reign -[430.72 --> 434.68] Yours is the glory -[434.68 --> 436.68] Yours is the glory -[436.68 --> 444.68] Yours is the name above all names -[444.68 --> 448.68] What a powerful name it is -[448.68 --> 451.68] What a powerful name it is -[451.68 --> 465.64] Nothing can stand against -[465.64 --> 469.64] What a powerful name it is -[469.64 --> 473.64] The name of Jesus -[473.64 --> 477.10] You have no rival -[477.10 --> 481.06] You have no rival -[481.06 --> 482.06] You have no equal -[482.06 --> 487.06] Now and forever God you reign -[487.06 --> 490.06] Yours is the kingdom -[490.06 --> 493.06] Yours is the glory -[493.06 --> 494.06] Yours is the glory -[494.06 --> 499.06] Yours is the name above all names -[499.06 --> 504.06] What a powerful name it is -[504.06 --> 505.06] What a powerful name it is -[505.06 --> 509.02] What a powerful name it is -[509.02 --> 516.02] The name of Jesus Christ my King -[516.02 --> 519.02] What a powerful name it is -[519.02 --> 523.02] Nothing can stand against -[523.02 --> 526.02] What a powerful name it is -[526.02 --> 530.02] The name of Jesus -[530.02 --> 533.02] What a powerful name it is -[533.02 --> 534.10] What a powerful name it is -[534.10 --> 534.92] What the 저는 Straßen states -[534.92 --> 537.72] What a powerful name it is -[537.72 --> 545.96] What a powerful name it is -[546.96 --> 548.98] What a powerful name it is -[548.98 --> 551.98] What a powerful name it is -[551.98 --> 552.98] What a powerful name it is -[552.98 --> 555.56] What a powerful name it is -[555.56 --> 562.68] What a powerful name it is -[562.68 --> 564.68] Amen. -[592.68 --> 594.68] Amen. -[622.68 --> 624.68] Amen. -[652.68 --> 654.68] Amen. -[682.68 --> 684.68] Amen. -[712.68 --> 714.68] Amen. -[742.68 --> 772.66] Amen. -[772.68 --> 774.68] Amen. -[802.68 --> 804.68] Amen. -[832.68 --> 834.68] Amen. -[834.68 --> 836.68] Amen. -[836.68 --> 838.68] Amen. -[838.68 --> 840.68] Amen. -[840.68 --> 842.68] Amen. -[842.68 --> 844.68] Amen. -[844.68 --> 868.48] Let the earth receive our King. -[868.48 --> 898.46] Let the earth receive our King. -[898.48 --> 928.46] Let the earth receive our King. -[928.48 --> 934.90] Thank you for joining us for our Good Friday worship service together. -[935.48 --> 941.50] We gather tonight to remember the life and the death of Christ. -[941.50 --> 951.38] We gather tonight to reflect on what that death means for us as his church and in this community today. -[951.58 --> 959.58] That event 2,000 years ago changes everything about how we live our lives today. -[959.76 --> 969.18] And so we gather to remember and to reflect, to worship, and then to be sent out in the power of the cross. -[969.18 --> 973.40] If you're visiting with us this evening, a special welcome to you. -[973.52 --> 975.72] My name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors here. -[975.92 --> 982.72] And along with these others and a few more yet on stage, it's my privilege to lead you in worship. -[983.16 --> 991.26] I'm going to ask if you are able and where you are to stand, we can be called together into the presence of God and welcomed by him here. -[991.26 --> 997.00] Receive the greeting of our God on this Good Friday. -[998.00 --> 1009.30] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father through the death of Jesus Christ, his Son, -[1009.30 --> 1013.12] by the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[1014.16 --> 1014.56] Amen. -[1015.30 --> 1016.34] Let's worship our God together. -[1039.30 --> 1039.56] Amen. -[1063.50 --> 1064.10] Amen. -[1064.12 --> 1064.98] Amen. -[1064.98 --> 1066.78] Amen. -[1066.80 --> 1067.16] Amen. -[1067.16 --> 1070.40] Jesus' name. -[1074.40 --> 1080.88] Silent as he stood accused, -[1081.46 --> 1087.16] beaten, mocked, and scorned. -[1088.38 --> 1094.40] Bowing to the Father's will, -[1094.40 --> 1100.86] he took a crown of thorns. -[1101.40 --> 1107.48] Oh, that rugged cross, my salvation, -[1108.28 --> 1113.56] where your love poured out over me. -[1115.18 --> 1118.46] Now my soul cries out, -[1118.46 --> 1119.84] Hallelujah! -[1119.84 --> 1127.98] Praise and honor unto thee. -[1132.98 --> 1138.84] Sends of heaven, God's own song, -[1138.84 --> 1144.98] to purchase and redeem, -[1146.98 --> 1153.28] and reconcile the very ones -[1153.28 --> 1158.98] who nailed him to that tree. -[1158.98 --> 1166.24] Oh, that rugged cross, my salvation, -[1167.12 --> 1172.98] where your love poured out over me. -[1173.72 --> 1177.18] Now my soul cries out, -[1177.46 --> 1178.98] Hallelujah! -[1180.98 --> 1185.98] Praise and honor unto thee. -[1185.98 --> 1187.98] Praise and honor unto thee. -[1187.98 --> 1192.12] Oh, that rugged cross, my salvation, -[1192.12 --> 1200.12] where your love poured out over me. -[1200.12 --> 1204.54] Now my soul cries out, -[1204.90 --> 1206.12] Hallelujah! -[1208.24 --> 1213.12] Praise and honor unto thee. -[1213.12 --> 1220.12] Praise and honor unto thee. -[1220.12 --> 1221.26] Praise and honor unto thee. -[1226.26 --> 1228.40] From Isaiah 53. -[1228.40 --> 1235.96] He was despised and rejected by man, -[1237.40 --> 1240.48] a man of suffering and familiar with pain. -[1241.84 --> 1244.68] Like one from whom people hide their faces, -[1244.92 --> 1245.88] he was despised, -[1246.40 --> 1249.08] and we held him in low esteem. -[1250.98 --> 1253.82] Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, -[1253.82 --> 1257.00] yet we considered him punished by God, -[1257.58 --> 1258.46] stricken by him, -[1258.94 --> 1259.60] and afflicted. -[1261.00 --> 1264.16] But he was pierced for our transgressions. -[1264.32 --> 1267.10] He was crushed for our iniquities. -[1268.04 --> 1272.42] The punishment that brought us peace was on him, -[1272.98 --> 1275.32] and by his wounds we are healed. -[1275.32 --> 1279.74] We all, like sheep, have gone astray. -[1280.08 --> 1282.38] Each of us has turned to our own way, -[1283.00 --> 1286.10] and the Lord has laid on him -[1286.10 --> 1288.88] the iniquity of us all. -[1288.88 --> 1291.42] simmer play with singing. -[1291.42 --> 1321.40] piano plays softly -[1321.42 --> 1351.40] piano plays softly -[1351.42 --> 1381.40] piano plays softly -[1381.42 --> 1388.54] Oh, praise the name of the Lord our God. -[1388.94 --> 1395.46] Oh, praise His name forevermore. -[1395.86 --> 1402.42] For endless days we will sing Your praise. -[1402.42 --> 1408.54] Oh, Lord, oh, Lord our God. -[1408.54 --> 1416.16] Oh, praise the name of the Lord our God. -[1416.16 --> 1423.00] Oh, praise His name forevermore. -[1423.28 --> 1430.04] For endless days we will sing Your praise. -[1430.04 --> 1436.16] Oh, Lord, oh, Lord our God. -[1436.16 --> 1443.16] Oh, Lord, oh, Lord our God. -[1443.16 --> 1448.96] Continuing in Isaiah 53. -[1448.96 --> 1454.70] Yet it was the Lord's will to crush Him and cause Him to suffer. -[1455.66 --> 1459.22] And though the Lord makes His life an offering for sin, -[1459.78 --> 1463.04] He will see His offspring and prolong His days, -[1463.32 --> 1466.48] and the will of the Lord will prosper in His hand. -[1467.94 --> 1472.34] After He has suffered, He will see the light of life and be satisfied. -[1472.34 --> 1476.92] By His knowledge, My righteous servant will justify many, -[1477.02 --> 1478.54] and He will bear their iniquities. -[1479.50 --> 1482.60] Therefore, I will give Him a portion among the great, -[1483.12 --> 1485.64] and He will divide the spoils with the strong, -[1485.74 --> 1488.20] because He poured out His life unto death -[1488.20 --> 1490.72] and was numbered with the transgressors. -[1490.72 --> 1493.14] For He bore the sin of many -[1493.14 --> 1496.16] and made intercession for the transgressors. -[1496.16 --> 1523.10] O sacred hand, now wounded, -[1523.10 --> 1529.10] with grief and shame, with doubt, -[1530.48 --> 1536.20] Thou scornfully surrounded, -[1536.20 --> 1542.10] with warmth, Your only crown. -[1543.78 --> 1550.02] O sacred hand, one glory, -[1550.02 --> 1556.50] and blessing You have known. -[1556.50 --> 1563.24] Yet though deep, spires and glory, -[1563.24 --> 1569.84] I claim You as my own. -[1580.02 --> 1589.62] My Lord, what You did suffer, -[1589.62 --> 1596.26] Was all for sinners gave. -[1596.26 --> 1603.04] Mine, mine was a transgression, -[1603.04 --> 1609.52] But Yours, the deadly pain. -[1609.52 --> 1616.96] So here I heal my Savior, -[1616.96 --> 1624.10] For I deserve Your place. -[1624.10 --> 1631.10] Look on me with Your favor, -[1631.10 --> 1638.10] And safely by Your grace. -[1638.10 --> 1645.10] What language shall I borrow -[1645.10 --> 1651.10] To make You, dearest friend, -[1651.10 --> 1658.10] For this Your dying sorrow, -[1658.10 --> 1665.10] Your mercy without end. -[1665.10 --> 1672.10] Lord, make me yours forever -[1672.10 --> 1678.10] A royal servant too -[1678.10 --> 1685.10] And let me never, never -[1685.10 --> 1692.10] Outlive my love for You -[1692.10 --> 1696.64] Let's bow our heads. -[1698.58 --> 1702.22] Father, what language can we borrow? -[1703.22 --> 1706.02] What can we say in the presence of such love? -[1706.84 --> 1708.72] We deserved Your place. -[1709.78 --> 1711.88] We have sinned against You. -[1711.88 --> 1718.88] We have allowed other things to take Your rightful place in our hearts and our lives. -[1718.88 --> 1723.00] We fall at Your feet, saved by Your grace. -[1723.00 --> 1727.26] How we long for more of Your presence in our lives. -[1727.26 --> 1732.36] Take our cold heart and breathe new life into us. -[1732.36 --> 1739.36] Make us new creations forever Yours. -[1739.36 --> 1741.36] Captivate us with Your beauty. -[1741.36 --> 1745.36] And may we never outlive our love for You. -[1745.36 --> 1747.36] Amen. -[1747.36 --> 1772.68] To God's love for you, be my Marian. -[1772.68 --> 1786.38] Who stood before creation, eternity in your hand? -[1787.28 --> 1796.04] You spoke the earth into motion, my soul now to stand. -[1796.04 --> 1812.34] You stood before my failure, and carried the cross for my shame. -[1812.34 --> 1822.18] My sin weighed upon your shoulders, my soul now to stand. -[1822.18 --> 1828.18] So what can I say? -[1831.18 --> 1835.18] What can I do? -[1835.18 --> 1850.18] I offer this heart, O God, completely to you. -[1850.18 --> 1864.18] I walk upon salvation, your spirit alive in me. -[1864.18 --> 1874.18] My life to declare your promise, my soul now to stand. -[1874.18 --> 1904.18] -[1904.18 --> 1906.18] What can I say? -[1906.18 --> 1908.18] What can I say? -[1908.18 --> 1913.18] And what can I do? -[1913.18 --> 1914.18] What can I do? -[1914.18 --> 1928.18] I offer this heart, O God, completely to you. -[1928.18 --> 1945.18] I'll stand with arms high and heart of man and earth. -[1945.18 --> 1951.18] In awe of the one who gave it all. -[1951.18 --> 1954.18] I'll stand with arms high and heart of man and earth. -[1954.18 --> 1961.18] I'll stand with arms high and heart of man and earth. -[1961.18 --> 1967.18] I'll stand with arms high and earth. -[1967.18 --> 1970.18] I'll stand with arms high and heart of man and earth. -[1970.18 --> 1975.18] In awe of the one who gave it all. -[1976.18 --> 1982.18] I'll stand with arms high and heart of man and earth. -[1982.18 --> 1987.34] How I am is yours -[1987.34 --> 1993.18] How I am is yours -[2012.18 --> 2042.16] How I am yours -[2042.18 --> 2072.16] How I am yours -[2072.18 --> 2102.16] How I am yours -[2102.16 --> 2104.16] How I am yours -[2104.16 --> 2108.16] How I am yours -[2108.16 --> 2112.16] How I am yours -[2112.16 --> 2114.16] How I am yours -[2114.16 --> 2116.16] How I am yours -[2116.16 --> 2120.16] How I am yours -[2120.16 --> 2122.16] How I am yours -[2122.16 --> 2126.16] How I am yours -[2126.16 --> 2128.16] How I am yours -[2128.16 --> 2132.16] How I am yours -[2132.16 --> 2134.16] How I am yours -[2134.16 --> 2136.16] How I am yours -[2136.16 --> 2138.16] How I am yours -[2138.16 --> 2142.16] How I am yours -[2142.16 --> 2144.16] How I am yours -[2144.16 --> 2146.16] How I am yours -[2146.16 --> 2148.16] How I am yours -[2148.16 --> 2150.16] How I am yours -[2150.16 --> 2152.16] How I am yours -[2152.16 --> 2154.16] How I am yours -[2154.16 --> 2156.16] How I am yours -[2156.16 --> 2160.16] How I am yours -[2160.16 --> 2162.16] How I am yours -[2162.16 --> 2164.16] How I am yours -[2164.16 --> 2166.16] How I am yours -[2166.16 --> 2168.16] How I am yours -[2168.16 --> 2170.16] How I am yours -[2170.16 --> 2172.16] How I am yours -[2172.16 --> 2174.16] How I am yours -[2174.16 --> 2176.16] How I am yours -[2176.16 --> 2178.16] How I am yours -[2178.16 --> 2180.16] How I am yours -[2180.16 --> 2182.16] How I am yours -[2182.16 --> 2184.16] How I am yours -[2184.16 --> 2186.16] How I am yours -[2186.16 --> 2188.16] How I am yours -[2188.16 --> 2190.16] How I am yours -[2190.16 --> 2192.16] How I am yours -[2192.16 --> 2194.16] How I am yours -[2194.16 --> 2196.16] How I am yours -[2196.16 --> 2198.16] How I am yours -[2198.16 --> 2200.16] How I am yours -[2200.16 --> 2202.16] How I am yours -[2202.16 --> 2213.70] Lives are broken all around us, a sparrow flower sees. -[2213.70 --> 2226.90] The God needs hearts and arms to open in mercy for the least of these. -[2226.90 --> 2247.14] Lord, may our hearts redeemed in mercy have mercy on the knees of these. -[2256.90 --> 2263.90] Amen. -[2263.90 --> 2275.90] What love is this? -[2275.90 --> 2289.14] What love is this? -[2289.14 --> 2296.14] That bears a cross. -[2296.14 --> 2304.14] That says your will not might be done. -[2304.14 --> 2311.14] Father, forgive me, they know not what they do. -[2311.14 --> 2330.14] This is the love of Jesus, love from the heart of God. -[2330.14 --> 2345.14] What grace is this? -[2345.14 --> 2349.14] What grace is this? -[2349.14 --> 2356.14] He's gone to all. -[2356.14 --> 2363.14] It is our sins that we've done. -[2363.14 --> 2371.14] It is for us that he suffers on the cross. -[2371.14 --> 2378.14] This is the praise of Jesus, -[2378.14 --> 2390.14] Praise from the heart of God. -[2390.14 --> 2397.14] What wondrous love is this? -[2397.14 --> 2417.14] Oh, my soul, that caused the Lord of bliss to bear the dreadful curse. -[2417.14 --> 2424.14] What love is this? -[2424.14 --> 2430.14] What grace divine? -[2430.14 --> 2436.14] What grace divine? -[2436.14 --> 2451.14] No greater gift will ever be. -[2451.14 --> 2457.14] Our blessed Savior, die that we might give. -[2457.14 --> 2464.14] This gift so freely given. -[2464.14 --> 2482.14] Love, love from the heart of God. -[2482.14 --> 2492.14] The heart of God. -[2492.14 --> 2503.14] The blood of God. -[2512.14 --> 2533.14] The heart of God. -[2533.14 --> 2543.14] We are going to spend the next while reading together and reflecting on the story of Good Friday and the death of Jesus on the cross. -[2543.14 --> 2546.14] And we're going to do that from the Gospel of Mark. -[2546.14 --> 2556.14] So I'm going to encourage you, if you have a Bible with you, to open it up or if you have a device with a Bible on it, to get that out, to turn that on and jump to Mark 15. -[2556.14 --> 2563.14] We're going to start together in verse 16. -[2563.14 --> 2564.14] And with you. -[2564.14 --> 2567.14] Before we read, I'm going to pray. -[2567.14 --> 2572.14] Would you join your heart with me in prayer together? -[2572.14 --> 2591.14] Lord Jesus, as we come to you this evening, we know that you are the good shepherd and that the good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. -[2591.14 --> 2603.14] And we know that your sheep hear your voice and know it and experience your love in it. -[2603.14 --> 2608.14] And so now take this story and make it more than just a story. -[2608.14 --> 2614.14] Make it the true story of the whole world in our hearts and minds right now. -[2614.14 --> 2623.14] Open our spiritual imaginations that we might hear Jesus, that we might see you. -[2624.14 --> 2630.14] And that we might be touched as we look upon you in the hour of your death. -[2632.14 --> 2636.14] We pray this in your holy name. -[2636.14 --> 2637.14] Amen. -[2637.14 --> 2647.14] So this is the word of the Lord from Mark 15, beginning at verse 16. -[2647.14 --> 2658.14] The soldiers led Jesus away into the palace, that is the praetorium, and called together the whole company of soldiers. -[2658.14 --> 2667.14] They put a purple robe on him, then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on him, and they began to call out to him. -[2668.14 --> 2670.14] Hail, King of the Jews. -[2670.14 --> 2675.14] Again and again they struck him on the head with a staff and spit on him. -[2675.14 --> 2678.14] Falling on their knees, they paid homage to him. -[2678.14 --> 2683.14] And when they had mocked him, they took off the purple robe and put his own clothes on him. -[2683.14 --> 2688.14] Then they led him out to crucify him. -[2689.14 --> 2700.14] Now a certain man from Cyrene, Simon, the father of Alexander and Rufus, was passing by on his way in from the country, and they forced him to carry the cross. -[2700.14 --> 2705.14] They brought Jesus to the place called Golgotha, which means the place of the skull. -[2705.14 --> 2709.14] They offered him wine mixed with myrrh, but he did not take it. -[2709.14 --> 2712.14] And they crucified him, dividing up his clothes. -[2712.14 --> 2715.14] They cast lots to see what each would get. -[2715.14 --> 2720.14] It was nine in the morning when they crucified him. -[2720.14 --> 2723.14] The written notice of the charge against him read, -[2723.14 --> 2726.14] The King of the Jews. -[2726.14 --> 2733.14] They crucified two rebels with him, one on his right and one on his left. -[2733.14 --> 2738.14] And those who passed by hurled insults at him, shaking their heads and saying, -[2738.14 --> 2745.14] So, you who are going to destroy the temple and build it in three days, come down from the cross and save yourself. -[2745.14 --> 2751.14] In the same way, the chief priests and the teachers of the law mocked him among themselves. -[2751.14 --> 2755.14] He saved others, but he can't save himself. -[2755.14 --> 2761.14] Let this Messiah, this King of Israel, come down now from the cross, that we may see him and believe. -[2761.14 --> 2768.14] Those crucified with him also heaped insults on him. -[2768.14 --> 2777.14] At noon, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon. -[2777.14 --> 2781.14] And at three in the afternoon, Jesus cried out in a loud voice, -[2781.14 --> 2785.14] Eloi, Eloi, lama sabascani. -[2785.14 --> 2791.14] Which means, my God, my God, why have you forsaken me? -[2791.14 --> 2795.14] When some of those standing near heard this, they said, -[2795.14 --> 2798.14] Listen, he's calling Elijah. -[2798.14 --> 2804.14] Someone ran and filled a sponge with wine vinegar and put it on a staff and offered it to Jesus to drink. -[2804.14 --> 2809.14] Now leave him alone. Let's see if Elijah comes to take him down. -[2809.14 --> 2816.14] With a loud cry, Jesus breathed his last. -[2816.14 --> 2825.14] And the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. -[2825.14 --> 2830.14] And when the centurion who stood there in front of Jesus saw how he died, he said, -[2830.14 --> 2835.14] Surely this man was the Son of God. -[2835.14 --> 2850.14] This is the word of the Lord. -[2850.14 --> 2855.14] Why did Jesus die? -[2855.14 --> 2857.14] Why did Jesus have to die? -[2857.14 --> 2861.14] That's the question of Good Friday. -[2861.14 --> 2865.14] That's the question we're going to live in for a little while. -[2865.14 --> 2871.14] Now Mark writes his gospel in no small part to help us answer that question. -[2871.14 --> 2875.14] So we're going to look at the story, the part we read and a little bit preceding, -[2875.14 --> 2879.14] to see if we can get there together. -[2879.14 --> 2882.14] The story will tell us some things. -[2882.14 --> 2887.14] Now if your Bibles are open, like I encourage you to do, look at chapter 14. -[2887.14 --> 2890.14] Right? In chapter 14, Jesus is arrested. -[2890.14 --> 2892.14] He has been betrayed by Judas Iscariot. -[2892.14 --> 2898.14] He's been brought to the high priest and to the chief priests, to the elders and the teachers of the law, the Sanhedrin, -[2898.14 --> 2903.14] which is the whole religio-political ruling class of Jerusalem. -[2903.14 --> 2905.14] He has been brought before them. -[2905.14 --> 2910.14] And in chapter 14, verse 55, -[2910.14 --> 2919.14] the chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were looking for evidence against Jesus so that they could put him to death. -[2919.14 --> 2922.14] But they did not find any. -[2922.14 --> 2928.14] Many testified falsely against him, but their statements did not agree. -[2928.14 --> 2937.14] They wanted to find a reason to put him to death, but they couldn't, at least not easily. -[2937.14 --> 2938.14] Verse 57, -[2938.14 --> 2943.14] Now some stood up and gave this false testimony against him. -[2943.14 --> 2945.14] We heard him say, -[2945.14 --> 2948.14] I will destroy this temple made with human hands, -[2948.14 --> 2952.14] and in three days we'll build another not made with human hands. -[2952.14 --> 2956.14] Yet even then their testimony did not agree. -[2956.14 --> 2966.14] Now, if you are familiar with the story, this is a false testimony, but based on half truths and really a manipulation of facts. -[2966.14 --> 2967.14] Right? -[2967.14 --> 2970.14] It's a creative recounting of history. -[2970.14 --> 2977.14] Because, and the Gospel of John does record this event, this story of destroy this temple. -[2977.14 --> 2978.14] Right? -[2978.14 --> 2980.14] Jesus says, destroy this temple. -[2980.14 --> 2982.14] And first, notice the agency there. -[2982.14 --> 2983.14] Right? -[2983.14 --> 2985.14] The false accusation that is made against him. -[2985.14 --> 2988.14] Jesus is the one destroying this temple. -[2988.14 --> 2995.14] And in Jesus' actual words, recorded in John, it's the leaders and the temple officials who are going to do the destroying. -[2995.14 --> 3003.14] And then, in the Gospel according to John again, it's that Jesus says, destroy this temple and I will raise it in three days. -[3003.14 --> 3012.14] John uses the word raise to directly connect Jesus to the temple and what will happen three days from now. -[3012.14 --> 3018.14] But the people are stuck on a physical building in Mark's account. -[3018.14 --> 3024.14] In three days, I will build another, is what they put on the lips of Jesus. -[3024.14 --> 3029.14] But even that testimony doesn't agree. -[3029.14 --> 3037.14] And so, in verse 60, the high priest stood up before them and asked Jesus, -[3037.14 --> 3041.14] Are you not going to answer? -[3041.14 --> 3045.14] What is this testimony that these men are bringing against you? -[3045.14 --> 3050.14] But Jesus remained silent and gave no answer. -[3050.14 --> 3057.14] They're looking for a reason to kill him, but Jesus stays silent. -[3057.14 --> 3067.14] They're looking for a reason to kill him, but Jesus isn't giving them one, at least not yet, because he's also not not giving them a reason. -[3067.14 --> 3073.14] But finally, they asked the right question. -[3073.14 --> 3082.14] Again, the high priest asked him, Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One? -[3082.14 --> 3091.14] Are you the Messiah, the Christ, the Anointed One, the Promised One of Isaiah 53, which we had read for us earlier in the service? -[3091.14 --> 3094.14] Are you the chosen King who will come? -[3094.14 --> 3097.14] And then that second part is important. -[3097.14 --> 3100.14] Are you the Son of the Blessed One? -[3100.14 --> 3106.14] Now, this is another way for the high priest to ask, Are you the Son of God? -[3106.14 --> 3115.14] Now, you might know this, but Jews of the day, and even today, don't say the name of God. -[3115.14 --> 3118.14] They don't even write out his covenant name. -[3118.14 --> 3122.14] The idea here is to avoid all blasphemy, right? -[3122.14 --> 3133.14] And blasphemy is a word for falsely attributing things to God that are not of God, or falsely calling something or someone God who is not God. -[3133.14 --> 3145.14] And so, in a trial like this, which as we will see, is ultimately about blasphemy, it makes sense that the high priest accuser would also be certain to avoid misspeaking the name of God. -[3145.14 --> 3146.14] Right? -[3146.14 --> 3147.14] Right? -[3147.14 --> 3150.14] So, he would use a phrase like Son of the Blessed One. -[3150.14 --> 3157.14] But the question is, right, the question behind the question is, are you the Son of God? -[3157.14 --> 3166.14] Now, by the time of Jesus, that phrase, Son of God, is a title that has become associated with messianic expectations. -[3166.14 --> 3168.14] So, the hope of the Messiah. -[3168.14 --> 3174.14] The Jewish people called the expected Messiah the Son of God. -[3174.14 --> 3184.14] Now, not in a way that we do today as Christians, not in a way that we have come to mean that, not in the way that even Jesus himself will mean it. -[3184.14 --> 3197.14] In fact, and this will matter later in the story, Jews would use the phrase Son of God like they would of a king being God's representative for the people. -[3197.14 --> 3200.14] Right? The king is chosen by God. -[3200.14 --> 3202.14] He is anointed by him. -[3202.14 --> 3206.14] Remember, the word Messiah is Hebrew for anointed one. -[3206.14 --> 3211.14] And so, they would use the title Son of God as an honorific. -[3211.14 --> 3215.14] Right? As the king would be called the Son of God. -[3215.14 --> 3221.14] The same is true in the Roman world that's happening, that this story takes place in. -[3221.14 --> 3228.14] Every Roman coin throughout the empire and the time of Jesus is inscribed with the phrase, -[3228.14 --> 3233.14] Tiberius Caesar, son of the divine Augustus. -[3233.14 --> 3238.14] Right? Loyal Romans called Caesar, son of God. -[3238.14 --> 3240.14] Now, remember that. -[3240.14 --> 3242.14] Hold on to that idea. -[3242.14 --> 3246.14] And this time, like we said, this time it's the right question. -[3246.14 --> 3250.14] Jesus answers, breaking his silence. -[3250.14 --> 3253.14] Jesus answers, verse 62, saying, -[3253.14 --> 3256.14] I am. -[3256.14 --> 3262.14] And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the mighty one and coming on the clouds, -[3262.14 --> 3263.14] clouds of heaven. -[3263.14 --> 3266.14] Right? -[3266.14 --> 3270.14] Without asking it, but still asking it, the chief priest says, -[3270.14 --> 3272.14] Are you the I am? -[3272.14 --> 3275.14] And Jesus says, I am. -[3275.14 --> 3278.14] I am the Son of Man. -[3278.14 --> 3284.14] Which is itself another messianic title from the prophets Ezekiel and from Daniel. -[3284.14 --> 3288.14] In fact, we're going to look at Daniel 7 really quick. -[3288.14 --> 3290.14] In Daniel 7, it reads, -[3290.14 --> 3299.14] In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man coming with the clouds of heaven. -[3299.14 --> 3304.14] And he approached the Ancient of days and was led into his presence. -[3304.14 --> 3307.14] He was given authority, glory, and sovereign power. -[3307.14 --> 3311.14] All nations and peoples of every language worshipped him. -[3311.14 --> 3316.14] His dominion is everlasting dominion that will not pass away, -[3316.14 --> 3320.14] and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed. -[3320.14 --> 3327.14] Daniel looks and he sees a Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven. -[3327.14 --> 3331.14] And this Son of Man is given authority and glory and sovereign power, -[3331.14 --> 3335.14] and all nations, all people everywhere will worship him. -[3335.14 --> 3337.14] His kingdom is forever. -[3337.14 --> 3340.14] This is who Jesus is. -[3340.14 --> 3345.14] This is who Jesus is saying he is in that moment by taking on that language. -[3345.14 --> 3348.14] And don't miss this again. -[3348.14 --> 3352.14] The high priest calls God the blessed one, -[3352.14 --> 3356.14] and Jesus does the same thing calling God the mighty one. -[3356.14 --> 3357.14] Right? -[3357.14 --> 3360.14] He is careful not to blaspheme, -[3360.14 --> 3363.14] and is still saying that he is God, -[3363.14 --> 3367.14] the Son of God, and worthy to be worshipped. -[3367.14 --> 3370.14] It's not blaspheming if it's true. -[3370.14 --> 3373.14] And notice what else Jesus says, right? -[3373.14 --> 3378.14] He says, you will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds from heaven. -[3378.14 --> 3383.14] So this, if you're, again, if you're familiar with the Bible story, -[3383.14 --> 3385.14] and the story of the Bible, -[3385.14 --> 3389.14] this is a pretty common image for Jesus' eventual return. -[3389.14 --> 3393.14] But I think most of us miss it. -[3393.14 --> 3398.14] And we miss it because of days like today, actually. -[3398.14 --> 3399.14] Right? -[3399.14 --> 3403.14] Where you look out at the sky, and it's a beautiful blue sky, -[3403.14 --> 3406.14] and there's these big white puffy clouds flowing through it. -[3406.14 --> 3407.14] Right? -[3407.14 --> 3410.14] When we picture Jesus coming from heaven in the clouds, -[3410.14 --> 3411.14] that's what we picture. -[3411.14 --> 3412.14] Right? -[3412.14 --> 3414.14] We look up to the sky, and that's what we see. -[3414.14 --> 3416.14] There's these soft white fluffy clouds, -[3416.14 --> 3418.14] and then there's Jesus riding in on them, -[3418.14 --> 3421.14] at least in my mind, kind of like a magic carpet. -[3421.14 --> 3423.14] But that's not the image. -[3423.14 --> 3426.14] That's not the point that's being made here. -[3426.14 --> 3427.14] Right? -[3427.14 --> 3430.14] Where else do clouds show up in the Bible? -[3430.14 --> 3434.14] Now, if you have been worshiping with us here at Emmanuel for a little while, -[3434.14 --> 3436.14] we've been in the book of Exodus. -[3436.14 --> 3438.14] And where's the cloud there? -[3438.14 --> 3441.14] The pillar of cloud. -[3441.14 --> 3442.14] Right? -[3442.14 --> 3445.14] God leads His people through the wilderness in a pillar of cloud, -[3445.14 --> 3449.14] a column of cloud that catches fire in the evening, -[3449.14 --> 3451.14] and then leads the people around. -[3451.14 --> 3454.14] In the book of Exodus, when God comes down, right, -[3454.14 --> 3456.14] when He descends to meet Moses on the mountain, -[3456.14 --> 3458.14] what is it surrounded with? -[3458.14 --> 3460.14] A cloud. -[3460.14 --> 3461.14] Right? -[3461.14 --> 3465.14] When the tabernacle is built, God descends, His glory comes down, -[3465.14 --> 3470.14] we read, as a cloud that rests over the Ark of the Covenant. -[3470.14 --> 3471.14] Right? -[3471.14 --> 3474.14] The same happens when Solomon builds the temple eventually. -[3474.14 --> 3475.14] Right? -[3475.14 --> 3479.14] The glory of God descends in a cloud. -[3479.14 --> 3485.14] Now, in Hebrew, what we're talking about here is called the Shekinah glory, -[3485.14 --> 3490.14] the dwelling presence of God, the settling among God's people presence. -[3490.14 --> 3493.14] Those are the clouds of heaven. -[3493.14 --> 3494.14] And so, when Jesus says, -[3494.14 --> 3497.14] you will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, -[3497.14 --> 3500.14] it's not a soft, white, fluffy cloud. -[3500.14 --> 3508.14] It is a booming, powerful, radiating presence and power of God kind of cloud. -[3508.14 --> 3511.14] In Matthew 24, Jesus says, -[3511.14 --> 3518.14] they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. -[3518.14 --> 3520.14] What glory? -[3520.14 --> 3522.14] The Shekinah glory. -[3522.14 --> 3523.14] Right? -[3523.14 --> 3527.14] The pillar of cloud glory, the presence of God glory. -[3527.14 --> 3529.14] In fact, we'll tie this even further. -[3529.14 --> 3535.14] I think that this is the same picture that we get in 1 Thessalonians 4. -[3535.14 --> 3539.14] 1 Thessalonians 4, Paul is writing to the church in Thessalonica -[3539.14 --> 3543.14] to encourage believers who are facing death. -[3543.14 --> 3545.14] And he writes, -[3545.14 --> 3551.14] For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a loud command and the voice of the archangel -[3551.14 --> 3554.14] and with the trumpet call of God and the dead in Christ will rise first. -[3554.14 --> 3557.14] And after that, we who are still alive are left, -[3557.14 --> 3562.14] will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. -[3562.14 --> 3565.14] And so, we will be with the Lord forever. -[3565.14 --> 3566.14] Right? -[3566.14 --> 3569.14] To be with Jesus in the clouds. -[3569.14 --> 3570.14] Right? -[3570.14 --> 3572.14] And notice, Jesus is coming down from heaven. -[3572.14 --> 3574.14] So, these are the clouds of heaven. -[3574.14 --> 3575.14] Right? -[3575.14 --> 3578.14] This isn't about escaping the world to the clouds. -[3578.14 --> 3584.14] This isn't, this is rather about the glory of God, the clouds of heaven coming down to this world -[3584.14 --> 3588.14] in its fullest revelation of God's own glory. -[3588.14 --> 3589.14] Right? -[3589.14 --> 3596.14] The Bible doesn't actually talk about a secret rapture or a rapture of an escape really of any kind. -[3596.14 --> 3597.14] Right? -[3597.14 --> 3603.14] The end of the story is about being raised up and being enraptured by the glory of God. -[3603.14 --> 3608.14] The glory of God come down like a cloud. -[3608.14 --> 3613.14] But there's only one way to get there. -[3613.14 --> 3620.14] There's only one way that the glory of God breaks free into the whole world. -[3620.14 --> 3625.14] And that way needs a cross. -[3625.14 --> 3628.14] Look at the people in the story. -[3628.14 --> 3629.14] Right? -[3629.14 --> 3634.14] Look at what they do. -[3634.14 --> 3637.14] Hail, King of the Jews. -[3637.14 --> 3640.14] They mock him. -[3640.14 --> 3649.14] So, you who are going to destroy the temple and build it in three days, come down from the cross and save yourself. -[3649.14 --> 3651.14] They ridicule him. -[3651.14 --> 3655.14] He saved others, but he can't save himself. -[3655.14 --> 3657.14] They belittle him. -[3657.14 --> 3662.14] Come down from the cross that we may see and believe. -[3662.14 --> 3666.14] They despised him. -[3666.14 --> 3673.14] Even those being crucified alongside of him heaped insults on him. -[3673.14 --> 3679.14] These are the very people who have seen Jesus for at least three years do miracles and teach with authority. -[3679.14 --> 3685.14] Some of these same people no doubt herald him as king just a few days before this on Palm Sunday. -[3685.14 --> 3691.14] These are the same people who have heard the stories and have seen the effects of his ministry in the world. -[3691.14 --> 3695.14] Point is, these people should have known better. -[3695.14 --> 3697.14] They should have done better. -[3697.14 --> 3700.14] They should have at least had an idea of what was going on. -[3700.14 --> 3704.14] But they didn't. -[3704.14 --> 3710.14] A few years ago, I read a book series by Ted Decker. -[3710.14 --> 3711.14] Maybe you're familiar with it. -[3711.14 --> 3713.14] It's the Circle series. -[3713.14 --> 3721.14] If you haven't read this series of books, they're about a man who falls asleep in the world and he wakes up in an alternate universe. -[3721.14 --> 3724.14] Now, this kind of fantasy and magic is right up my alley. -[3724.14 --> 3727.14] If it's not up yours, the next 30 seconds are going to bother you. -[3727.14 --> 3732.14] But so Thomas Hunter wakes up in another universe. -[3732.14 --> 3743.14] This other universe that he wakes up in is about to be overcome by a leprosy like plague and a spreading darkness that will forever alter the people who live there. -[3743.14 --> 3747.14] And so by the end of the first book, spoiler alert, it's kind of depressing. -[3747.14 --> 3748.14] Right. -[3748.14 --> 3754.14] And so, after the first book, deathliness, this darkness, wins and it spreads throughout the whole world. -[3754.14 --> 3767.14] Except for Hunter and a band of loyal followers who gather together and they have found one small corner of the world that the darkness has been held at bay from. -[3767.14 --> 3783.14] And these people have to do a whole bunch of rituals and practices in order to keep the deathliness at bay and in order to keep the darkness out from their community built in this beautiful forest, a forest that is surrounded by dark desert. -[3783.14 --> 3789.14] Now, in the next book in the series, a new character is introduced. -[3789.14 --> 3794.14] Now, if you've read anything by Ted Decker, you know it's a thinly veiled allegory for the gospel. -[3794.14 --> 3797.14] This character is named Justin. -[3797.14 --> 3802.14] And this Justin comes into direct conflict with Hunter. -[3802.14 --> 3803.14] Right. -[3803.14 --> 3810.14] Justin has gathered himself a band of misfits and scabs, they're called, people who have this leprosy like disease. -[3810.14 --> 3811.14] Right. -[3811.14 --> 3814.14] The people who have been overcome by the deathliness. -[3814.14 --> 3816.14] And he fights Hunter. -[3816.14 --> 3819.14] He is a thorn in his side for the entire story. -[3819.14 --> 3824.14] And as I read this book, I got more and more frustrated with Justin. -[3824.14 --> 3832.14] And I'm not proud to admit, but I confess to you that at some point in the story, I hated him for what he was doing. -[3832.14 --> 3835.14] For how he was treating Hunter, who was the hero. -[3835.14 --> 3844.14] And his band of people are just trying to survive and eke out a good existence in a world of death and darkness. -[3844.14 --> 3850.14] I would get, like, palpably angry as I read this story. -[3850.14 --> 3854.14] Now, as I tell the story here, two things. -[3854.14 --> 3856.14] You've probably already figured it out. -[3856.14 --> 3858.14] But I'm not the smartest guy in the world. -[3858.14 --> 3860.14] At least, I'm not the smartest guy you know. -[3860.14 --> 3862.14] And for your sake, I hope that that's true. -[3862.14 --> 3864.14] But I have a degree in history. -[3864.14 --> 3865.14] And I studied philosophy. -[3865.14 --> 3867.14] I have a master's degree in divinity. -[3867.14 --> 3872.14] So you think, I would have been able to figure out where this is going. -[3872.14 --> 3882.14] But as I read that story, it became abundantly clear in an instant that Justin is Jesus. -[3882.14 --> 3886.14] And I hated him. -[3886.14 --> 3893.14] The savior figure in the story, I despised. -[3893.14 --> 3897.14] The point is, I should have known better. -[3897.14 --> 3901.14] But I didn't. -[3901.14 --> 3908.14] And I remember that every time I read Mark 15. -[3908.14 --> 3914.14] If you were the kind of person who reads yourself into stories, if you were the kind of person who wonders, -[3914.14 --> 3916.14] who would you be in this story? -[3916.14 --> 3920.14] The truth is, you are the one who mocks. -[3920.14 --> 3922.14] I am the one who ridicules. -[3922.14 --> 3924.14] We would despise. -[3924.14 --> 3929.14] And that's why I had the other pastoral staff read those lines. -[3929.14 --> 3931.14] Because that is us. -[3931.14 --> 3934.14] That is our voice in this story. -[3934.14 --> 3938.14] If we believe Isaiah 53 to be true, and I do. -[3938.14 --> 3940.14] I trust that you do. -[3940.14 --> 3941.14] We should have seen it. -[3941.14 --> 3942.14] Right? -[3942.14 --> 3943.14] We should have known better. -[3943.14 --> 3944.14] Right? -[3944.14 --> 3945.14] Isaiah 53 says, -[3945.14 --> 3947.14] There were many who were appalled at him. -[3947.14 --> 3949.14] He was despised and rejected by humanity. -[3949.14 --> 3952.14] He was despised and we held him in low esteem. -[3952.14 --> 3956.14] He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth. -[3956.14 --> 3958.14] Sounds familiar, right? -[3958.14 --> 3974.14] And if that part of Isaiah 53 is true, and we see here in Mark 14 and 15 that it is, I want to suggest that so too are the other parts of Isaiah 53. -[3974.14 --> 3975.14] Right? -[3975.14 --> 3980.14] The parts that say, surely he took our pain. -[3980.14 --> 3983.14] He bore our suffering. -[3983.14 --> 3984.14] Right? -[3984.14 --> 3986.14] Jesus is perfect. -[3986.14 --> 3987.14] He is the Son of God. -[3987.14 --> 3989.14] He didn't deserve to die. -[3989.14 --> 3992.14] If, as Paul writes in Romans, the wages of sin is death. -[3992.14 --> 3995.14] One who is without sin doesn't deserve death. -[3995.14 --> 3996.14] But Jesus died. -[3996.14 --> 3999.14] He died because I deserve death. -[3999.14 --> 4001.14] He died because of my sin. -[4001.14 --> 4003.14] He died for our sin. -[4003.14 --> 4004.14] He died for your sin. -[4004.14 --> 4007.14] It is your sin that held him there. -[4007.14 --> 4012.14] He was punished by God and stricken by him and afflicted. -[4012.14 --> 4017.14] He was pierced for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities. -[4017.14 --> 4020.14] The punishment that brought us peace was upon him. -[4020.14 --> 4024.14] By his wounds we are healed. -[4024.14 --> 4025.14] Healed. -[4025.14 --> 4033.14] And yet, yet it was the Lord's will to crush him and to cause him to suffer. -[4033.14 --> 4037.14] The Lord makes his life an offering for sin. -[4037.14 --> 4042.14] Jesus dies on the cross on that day as an offering for sin. -[4042.14 --> 4047.14] Not for his, but for ours. -[4047.14 --> 4051.14] Not for his, but for mine. -[4051.14 --> 4057.14] The wages of sin is death and Jesus paid that death. -[4057.14 --> 4062.14] But it's also so much more than just death as horrific as that is. -[4062.14 --> 4063.14] Right? -[4063.14 --> 4068.14] The Lord's cross, Jesus cries out, Eloi, Eloi, Lema Sebastone, which means, my God, my God, -[4068.14 --> 4070.14] why have you forsaken me? -[4070.14 --> 4073.14] And this is another quote from Psalm 22. -[4073.14 --> 4075.14] And there the psalmist continues. -[4075.14 --> 4078.14] And again, hear these words over top of the story of Jesus. -[4078.14 --> 4079.14] Right? -[4079.14 --> 4081.14] Scorned by everyone, the psalmist writes. -[4081.14 --> 4083.14] Despised by the people. -[4083.14 --> 4084.14] All who see me mock me. -[4084.14 --> 4087.14] They hurl insults, shaking their heads. -[4087.14 --> 4088.14] He trusts the Lord, they say. -[4088.14 --> 4090.14] Let the Lord rescue him. -[4090.14 --> 4094.14] Let him deliver him since he delights in him. -[4094.14 --> 4097.14] It's the same thing that the people in Mark say. -[4097.14 --> 4101.14] My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? -[4101.14 --> 4115.14] Jesus on that cross in that moment is experiencing the punishment for sin. -[4115.14 --> 4117.14] The consequence for sin. -[4117.14 --> 4120.14] The wages of sin. -[4120.14 --> 4121.14] And he feels it. -[4121.14 --> 4123.14] He bears it. -[4123.14 --> 4126.14] The love that Jesus has known from the Father. -[4126.14 --> 4136.14] The love of the Father and the Holy Spirit that he has intimately experienced throughout all eternity prior to this moment is removed from him. -[4136.14 --> 4137.14] Right? -[4137.14 --> 4138.14] He loses the Father. -[4138.14 --> 4139.14] He loses the Father. -[4139.14 --> 4145.14] He's forsaken by the Father because we lost the Father first. -[4145.14 --> 4151.14] He loses the Father so that you and I can be found by him. -[4151.14 --> 4155.14] My God, my God, my God, why have you forsaken me? -[4155.14 --> 4158.14] Isn't a rhetorical question for Jesus on the cross. -[4158.14 --> 4166.14] And the answer to that question is for you. -[4166.14 --> 4168.14] For me. -[4168.14 --> 4169.14] Right? -[4169.14 --> 4170.14] Right? -[4170.14 --> 4174.14] The judgment that should have fallen on me is on him instead. -[4174.14 --> 4179.14] He died the death that we should have died so that we can be saved from judgment. -[4179.14 --> 4189.14] Even as I call out among the scoffers, he prays, Father, forgive him. -[4189.14 --> 4202.14] And with a loud cry, Jesus breathed his last. -[4202.14 --> 4204.14] And it worked. -[4204.14 --> 4205.14] Right? -[4205.14 --> 4210.14] His death accomplished exactly what God said it would in Isaiah 53. -[4210.14 --> 4217.14] His death accomplished exactly what Jesus promised it would and precisely what he said it would accomplish. -[4217.14 --> 4221.14] And it came about in exactly the way that he said was necessary. -[4221.14 --> 4229.14] Three times in the Gospel of Mark, Jesus tells his disciples and followers directly what would happen. -[4229.14 --> 4231.14] And that this was necessary. -[4231.14 --> 4236.14] And still they don't understand and they are too afraid to ask. -[4236.14 --> 4238.14] But Jesus' death worked. -[4238.14 --> 4240.14] It changes something. -[4240.14 --> 4244.14] And here's how we know that it changed something. -[4244.14 --> 4246.14] Something drastic. -[4246.14 --> 4249.14] Look, with a loud cry, he breathed his last. -[4249.14 --> 4257.14] And the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. -[4257.14 --> 4261.14] The temple curtain is torn in two from top to bottom. -[4261.14 --> 4262.14] And let me be really clear with you. -[4262.14 --> 4263.14] Right? -[4263.14 --> 4267.14] This curtain isn't like your shower curtain that falls down every morning at home. -[4267.14 --> 4268.14] Right? -[4268.14 --> 4269.14] This isn't a thin veil. -[4269.14 --> 4272.14] This is a heavy, thick, dense fabric. -[4272.14 --> 4275.14] It's more like a wall than it is a sheet. -[4275.14 --> 4276.14] Right? -[4276.14 --> 4281.14] The curtain in the temple separates the Holy of Holies from the rest of the temple. -[4281.14 --> 4285.14] And the Holy of Holies is that Shekinah glory dwelling place of God. -[4285.14 --> 4288.14] It is the place where he resides. -[4288.14 --> 4297.14] And only one day a year on Yom Kippur, on the Day of Atonement, can the High Priest enter there and make atonement for the sins of the people. -[4297.14 --> 4307.14] And only after the High Priest has made all sorts of sacrifices for himself and has only gone through all of these rituals of preparation is he able to enter into that place. -[4307.14 --> 4313.14] The point is, no sin can enter there. -[4313.14 --> 4321.14] And the curtain being torn in two says that this sacrifice of Jesus has done what all others have pointed to. -[4321.14 --> 4327.14] And it's torn in two from top to bottom just to make it perfectly clear who is doing the tearing. -[4327.14 --> 4328.14] Right? -[4328.14 --> 4334.14] At the moment of Jesus' death, God is saying, this is the sacrifice to end all sacrifices. -[4334.14 --> 4340.14] The way to approach me is open and my glory is pouring out to you. -[4340.14 --> 4346.14] Jesus paid the price for my sin. -[4346.14 --> 4353.14] And anyone who believes can come into God's presence. -[4353.14 --> 4360.14] And to make sure we get that detail, to make sure we get that point, Mark tells us one more thing and we'll end here. -[4360.14 --> 4365.14] The curtain of the temple is torn in two from top to bottom. -[4365.14 --> 4378.14] And when the centurion who stood there in front of Jesus saw how he died, he said, surely this man was the son of God. -[4378.14 --> 4380.14] Remember what we said at the beginning? -[4380.14 --> 4388.14] Right? A loyal Roman would call Caesar God, but no other person, no other man. -[4388.14 --> 4389.14] And let me be really clear. -[4389.14 --> 4390.14] This is a centurion, right? -[4390.14 --> 4393.14] This isn't just some ordinary Roman. -[4393.14 --> 4401.14] This is a battle-hardened warrior who has seen death, who has likely caused a fair bit of death. -[4401.14 --> 4406.14] And this Roman soldier sees what all the other people could not. -[4406.14 --> 4411.14] And he says, surely this is the son of God. -[4411.14 --> 4417.14] The way of God and the way to God is open to anyone who believes. -[4417.14 --> 4425.14] If you have your Bible open, turn to the very first words of Mark. -[4425.14 --> 4428.14] Mark chapter 1, verse 1. -[4428.14 --> 4430.14] Mark says, -[4430.14 --> 4439.14] The beginning of the good news about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God. -[4439.14 --> 4441.14] The Son of God. -[4441.14 --> 4449.14] Right from the opening words of Mark's Gospel, does he tell you, this is what you're going to see. -[4449.14 --> 4460.14] Right from the opening line, the very first words, he says, I am telling you this story, I am writing this so that you might see that Jesus is the Messiah and the Son of God. -[4460.14 --> 4464.14] But I challenge you, and I challenge you to fact check me on this, this week. -[4464.14 --> 4465.14] Right? -[4465.14 --> 4475.14] How many times in this story, in the Gospel of Mark, do the people around Jesus see it? -[4475.14 --> 4476.14] Once. -[4476.14 --> 4477.14] Once. -[4477.14 --> 4478.14] Once. -[4478.14 --> 4479.14] Once. -[4479.14 --> 4480.14] Right here. -[4480.14 --> 4485.14] At the very end of the story, and it's a Roman. -[4485.14 --> 4492.14] This is the only person in the entire story to profess Jesus is the Son of God. -[4492.14 --> 4497.14] Now, twice in this story, demons recognize him for who he is. -[4497.14 --> 4506.14] But the only person to realize it, to put it all together, to see it and have his heart's affections reordered is a Roman centurion. -[4506.14 --> 4512.14] Not Peter, not any of the disciples, not his mother or any of the other women who ministered with him. -[4512.14 --> 4521.14] This first confession of the divine sonship of Jesus belongs to a centurion. -[4521.14 --> 4530.14] A Roman soldier who sees Jesus' death for what it is, the death of God. -[4530.14 --> 4533.14] As you go from here today, see Jesus. -[4533.14 --> 4535.14] See the Messiah. -[4535.14 --> 4539.14] See the Son of God on the cross for you. -[4539.14 --> 4547.14] As you go into Holy Saturday, and as we anticipate Easter Sunday when we come back here for our service in the morning, -[4547.14 --> 4552.14] go, but don't miss what so many have missed. -[4552.14 --> 4560.14] Go in the glory of God because of the cross of Jesus. -[4560.14 --> 4569.14] Go and profess, surely this man, this Jesus, is the Son of God. -[4569.14 --> 4570.14] Amen. -[4570.14 --> 4571.14] Let me pray with you. -[4571.14 --> 4581.14] Jesus, you are the Son of God. -[4581.14 --> 4584.14] Jesus, you are Holy Messiah. -[4584.14 --> 4590.14] Jesus, you are Savior sent to save the world. -[4590.14 --> 4595.14] And not only the world and others, but to save me. -[4595.14 --> 4599.14] To save all who believe. -[4599.14 --> 4604.14] And so, Lord Jesus, stir our belief tonight. -[4604.14 --> 4615.14] Stir our hearts to see you and our loves to embrace you as we see ourselves being embraced by you. -[4615.14 --> 4623.14] Open our eyes to the truth of the cross and the truth of who you are. -[4623.14 --> 4628.14] May we know your glory today. -[4628.14 --> 4630.14] In Jesus Christ we pray. -[4630.14 --> 4631.14] Amen. -[4631.14 --> 4648.14] Let's stand together. -[4648.14 --> 4649.14] Amen. -[4649.14 --> 4652.14] Come live together. -[4652.14 --> 4657.14] How may we begin cyk清 her smooth? -[4658.14 --> 4660.14] May we! -[4660.14 --> 4661.14] 木 -[4678.14 --> 4696.28] When I survey the wondrous cross, -[4696.28 --> 4709.72] On which the Prince of Glory died, -[4709.72 --> 4723.24] My richest gain I count but loss, -[4723.24 --> 4737.24] And for contempt of all my pride. -[4737.24 --> 4752.24] Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast, -[4752.24 --> 4766.24] Saved in the death of Christ my God, -[4766.24 --> 4780.24] All the vain things that shall be born, -[4780.24 --> 4794.24] I sacrifice them through His blood. -[4794.24 --> 4808.24] Sleep from His head, His hands, His feet, -[4808.24 --> 4821.24] Sorrow and love flow mingled down, -[4821.24 --> 4835.24] Did e'er such love and sorrow meet, -[4835.24 --> 4849.24] For thorns compose so rich a crown. -[4849.24 --> 4865.24] Were the whole realm of nature bound, -[4865.24 --> 4872.24] Thou's world yet said, -[4872.24 --> 4879.24] Far too strong, -[4879.24 --> 4885.24] Love so amazing, -[4885.24 --> 4893.24] The Lord is so divine, -[4893.24 --> 4898.24] Dements my soul, -[4898.24 --> 4901.24] My life, -[4901.24 --> 4907.24] My all. -[4907.24 --> 4913.24] Mark 15 says, -[4913.24 --> 4917.24] It was Preparation Day, -[4917.24 --> 4921.24] That is, the day before the Sabbath. -[4921.24 --> 4923.24] So as evening approached, -[4923.24 --> 4925.24] Joseph of Arimathea, -[4925.24 --> 4928.24] A prominent member of the council, -[4928.24 --> 4931.24] Who was himself waiting for the kingdom of God, -[4931.24 --> 4933.24] Went boldly to Pilate, -[4933.24 --> 4934.24] Went boldly to Pilate, -[4934.24 --> 4937.24] And asked for Jesus' body. -[4937.24 --> 4940.24] Pilate was surprised to hear that he was already dead. -[4940.24 --> 4943.24] Summoning the centurion, -[4943.24 --> 4946.24] He asked him if Jesus had already died. -[4946.24 --> 4950.24] When he learned from the centurion that it was so, -[4950.24 --> 4953.24] He gave the body to Joseph. -[4953.24 --> 4957.24] So Joseph bought some linen cloth, -[4957.24 --> 4959.24] Took down the body, -[4959.24 --> 4962.24] Wrapped it in the linen, -[4962.24 --> 4965.24] And placed it in a tomb cut out of rock. -[4965.24 --> 4970.24] Then he rolled a stone against the entrance of the tomb. -[4974.24 --> 4978.24] As we sing these last three verses, -[4978.24 --> 4980.24] We asked at the end of the third verse, -[4980.24 --> 4984.24] If we just walk out quietly. -[4984.24 --> 5001.24] Were you there when they crucified my Lord? -[5001.24 --> 5013.24] Were you there when they crucified my Lord? -[5013.24 --> 5023.24] Were you there when they crucified my Lord? -[5023.24 --> 5028.24] No. -[5028.24 --> 5034.24] No. -[5034.24 --> 5037.24] Sometimes it causes me to tremble, -[5037.24 --> 5042.24] Sometimes it causes me to tremble, -[5042.24 --> 5055.24] Tremble, tremble, tremble. -[5055.24 --> 5061.24] Were you there when they crucified my Lord? -[5061.24 --> 5068.24] Were you there when they nailed him to the tree? -[5068.24 --> 5082.24] Were you there when they nailed him to the tree? -[5082.24 --> 5095.24] Were you there when they nailed him to the tree? -[5095.24 --> 5103.24] Oh, oh, oh. -[5103.24 --> 5118.92] Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble. -[5120.92 --> 5131.36] Were you there when they nailed him to the tree? -[5133.24 --> 5142.40] At three in the afternoon, Jesus cried out in a loud voice, -[5143.94 --> 5146.90] Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? -[5148.28 --> 5154.74] Which means, my God, my God, why have you forsaken me? -[5163.24 --> 5171.40] Were you there when they laid him in the tomb? -[5175.24 --> 5184.24] Were you there when they laid him in the tomb? -[5184.24 --> 5212.24] Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble. -[5212.24 --> 5225.24] Were you there when they laid him in the tomb? -[5225.24 --> 5226.24] No. -[5226.24 --> 5227.24] No. -[5227.24 --> 5228.24] No. -[5228.24 --> 5229.24] No. -[5229.24 --> 5230.24] No. -[5230.24 --> 5231.24] No. -[5231.24 --> 5261.22] Thank you. diff --git a/Good Friday April 7 2023_summary.txt b/Good Friday April 7 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f91363aff07b44e52b26be8d5b52195fdf5f9c83..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Good Friday April 7 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,173 +0,0 @@ -• A long, uninterrupted segment with multiple instances of "thank you" -• A person appears to be singing or reciting a hymn, citing Jesus and the concept of sin and redemption -• The mention of specific phrases such as "Jesus paid it all", "holiness is your life in me", and "only the blood of jesus covers all of my sin" -• A transition to a church family prayer, asking for God's blessing on the congregation and acknowledging their sinful nature -• The speaker acknowledges their sin and asks God to have mercy on them, citing King David's psalm as a model for their prayer. -• They recognize the depth of their own unworthiness and express gratitude for God's love and compassion through Jesus' sacrifice. -• The speaker lists the ways in which Jesus was mocked, ridiculed, beaten, flogged, and crucified for their sin, demonstrating his willingness to bear the full weight of punishment. -• They acknowledge that they deserved none of this suffering but rather received mercy through Jesus' death on the cross. -• The prayer concludes by expressing gratitude for God's victory over evil and praying for the nations of the world. -• Global conflicts and hatred among nations -• Social injustices, such as withholding resources from the poor or ethnic groups -• Decline of morality and values in society -• Politicians sowing division for political gain rather than serving the common good -• Partisan politics dehumanizing those who disagree -• Economic discipline lost as a nation -• Materialism and love of self increasing -• Self-worth gauged by status or comparison to others -• Loss of national values, including loving God and neighbor -• Prayer for forgiveness and unity among Christians -• Request for divine intervention in various areas of life -• Praying for people with particular needs -• Comforting those suffering from physical or mental illness -• Protecting the hearts of the ill and providing strength to cope with grief and sorrow -• Mending broken relationships -• Providing financial assistance and employment -• Delivering resources and work to meet needs -• Offering meaning and enrichment in employment -• Overcoming addiction, particularly drugs, alcohol, and pornography -• Equipping people to resist temptation by God's spirit -• Reaching out to the lonely and isolated -• Blessing those held captive -• Providing aid to displaced persons and persecuted individuals -• The narrator plans to read from John 19 -• Jesus is flogged and given a crown of thorns by the soldiers -• Pilate presents Jesus to the Jews, saying he finds no charge against him -• The Jewish leaders insist that Jesus must die for claiming to be the Son of God -• Pilate questions Jesus about his origin and asks if he refuses to speak -• Jesus tells Pilate that he has power only because it was given to him from above -• Pilate tries to set Jesus free, but the Jewish leaders threaten him -• The Jewish leaders claim that releasing Jesus would make him no friend of Caesar -• The scene is set in Jerusalem on the day of preparation for the Passover, with Jesus being tried by Pontius Pilate. -• The crowd demands Jesus' crucifixion and the leaders insist that he must die according to Jewish law from Exodus or Leviticus. -• Pilate is shown to be reluctant to comply with the wishes of the Jewish leaders, but still agrees to hand Jesus over to them to be crucified. -• The Torah states that blaspheming the name of the Lord is punishable by death -• Jesus' claim to be the son of God was seen as blasphemy by some Jews -• The Shema, a central Jewish prayer, affirms the oneness of God and rejects idolatry -• Some people struggled to understand Jesus' statement about being one with God -• The law in Leviticus is mentioned but not specified -• Exodus 22:28, a biblical passage that prohibits blaspheming or cursing God or the ruler of one's people -• Jesus' application of this law in his teachings and actions, specifically claiming to be the Son of God -• The implications of Jesus' claims on Roman authority, with some seeing it as a challenge to both Jewish leaders and Caesar -• The Roman Empire's oppressive thumb on the people -• Rejection of Jesus by the chief priests, who choose Caesar over him as king -• Pilate's role in relation to the Roman Empire and his responsibility for maintaining peace in the region -• The Roman Empire's effective continuation of peace through enforcing local laws and traditions -• Roman law and oversight of Jewish leaders -• Adoption of Jewish law by Pilate's administration -• Pilate's responsibility to follow the chief priests' lead on laws -• Jesus questioned by Pilate about his origins and identity -• Discussion of Pilate's loaded question and his lack of understanding -• Jesus is asked questions by Pilate -• The questioning takes place during the trial of Jesus in front of Pilate -• Pilate asks if Jesus is from heaven or God -• Jesus' responses lead to a discussion about his deity and the reason for his presence on earth -• Pilate seeks clarification and asks further questions -• Pilate asks Jesus if he is the King of the Jews -• Jesus replies that Pilate's idea of a king may be different from what others have said about him -• Jesus says his kingdom is not of this world -• He notes that if it were, his servants would fight to prevent his arrest by Jewish leaders -• Jesus and Pilate engage in a back-and-forth exchange, with Jesus emphasizing the difference between his own concept of kingship and the worldly understanding of power. -• The world is to testify to the truth -• Everyone on the side of truth listens to me -• Pilate throws up his hands and goes with Jesus, unsure what truth is -• When choosing between truth and falsehood, one must listen to the truth -• Pilate wonders if Jesus is really from God -• He is starting to make a choice between truth and falsehood, but doesn't like it -• Jesus is asked questions by Pilate -• Jesus gives no answer to Pilate's questions -• Jesus knows he has said enough and proved his point -• The choice is up to Pilate to believe or not believe in Jesus -• Jesus' actions, life, and death are proof of who he is and God's commitment -• God's promise and faithfulness -• The vantage point of the Resurrection -• Easter Sunday as proof of God's promise -• Jesus' actions in relation to his promise -• Pilate's frustration and power struggle with Jesus -• Discussion of Pilate's frustration with Jesus -• Reference to a written sign above Pilate -• Mention of a biblical chapter and verse (Chapter 19, Verse 21) -• Explanation of the sign's message and its relation to Jewish people -• Pilate's decision to write on the sign as he wishes -• Jesus presents a choice to Pilate: free him or crucify him -• Jesus says Pilate would have no power over him if not given by God -• The passage from Romans 13 is referenced, stating that there is no authority except that established by God -• Jesus tells Pilate his role and the source of his power and authority -• Pilate's authority is not from Caesar, but from God -• Authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Jesus -• Jesus is the Son of God, the same son mentioned in Colossians -• The Son is the image of the invisible God -• All creation was made through the Son, who is the firstborn over all creation -• All things were created in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, and were created for the Son -• Jesus' humiliation and condescension -• Authority and power, specifically the king's sovereignty -• Emptiness of authority and self-emptying love -• Subjecting oneself to a cross and mockery as an act of justice -• Participating in a greater picture of reality than what is seen on the surface -• Jesus knows what's going on in the local situation -• It's more than just death of a good man, but ultimately misunderstood -• The choice is ours to see beyond surface level -• Peter spoke about this in his Pentecost sermon (Acts 2) -• Jesus of Nazareth was accredited by God through miracles and signs -• The idea that God's plan is to use Jesus' crucifixion for knowledge and understanding -• The notion that Pilate and others are blind to the reality of the situation -• The concept that Jesus' death on the cross is a deliberate part of God's plan -• The suggestion that humans think they have control, power, and authority but are actually part of God's larger plan -• Death of Jesus as a ransom for many -• Jesus telling his disciples he would die and be killed to bring life -• Jesus made like humans so he could make atonement for sins -• Atonement explained through various Bible passages -• The Bible uses the concept of punishment and sin to convey the importance of atonement -• Atonement is necessary for reconciliation with God -• Jesus' sacrifice is an example of atonement that brings people back to God -• The wages of sin is death, according to Romans 6:23 -• Sin will always lead to death unless atonement is made through faith in Jesus -• The wages of sin is death -• Sin separates us from God -• Relationship to God is the source of life -• Death is the result of losing relationship with God -• Jesus paid the price for death by dying in place of humanity -• Evil and sin are about winning and accomplishing power and authority -• Sin's greatest evil is the death of God's relationship with humanity -• God has a purpose and plan -• There is a deeper movement at work to satisfy eternal justice through the travesty of justice -• The innocent man dying on the cross was a choice made by Jesus out of his great love for us -• He took up the cross out of love, endured it for our sake, and lived the life we should have lived -• The truth of the gospel is that we are more sinful than we could admit, yet loved more than we can imagine -• Sin and punishment -• Jesus' choice to go to the cross as a sacrifice for sin -• The choice between seeing Jesus as just another man or as savior -• Making Jesus one's king -• Discipleship requirements from Luke 9, including denial of oneself and taking up one's own cross daily. -• The cost of following Jesus -• Discipleship and the cross -• Choice and freedom to believe or reject Jesus -• Jesus as Savior and King -• Evidence and seeking truth about Jesus' identity -• Invitation to return on Sunday for further discussion -• Empty tomb and its significance -• Invitation to visit the empty tomb on Sunday -• Anticipation of Sunday's event -• Choice between life and death -• Importance of informed living -• Source of real life -• Finding Jesus through prayer and devotion -• Praise and worship of God -• Mercy of the Lord is stronger than darkness -• His mercy is more abundant and stronger than our sins -• The Lord welcomes home those who are weak, vile, and poor -• Praise to the Lord for his mercy that remembers no wrongs -• His mercy is more powerful than patience and waiting -• Many sins -• Mercy of the Lord is more than riches or kindness -• Payment for our sins was Jesus' blood -• We stood under a deck we couldn't afford, referring to guilt -• Praise and thanksgiving for the Lord's mercy is fitting -• The Lord's mercy is stronger than darkness -• Our sins are many, but the Lord's mercy is more -• Praying to Jesus for comfort in life and death -• Acknowledging Jesus' payment of all sins and debt -• Expressing trust in Jesus' blood for salvation -• Recognizing ownership and belonging to Jesus body and soul -• Seeking assurance through the Holy Spirit -• Committing to living for Jesus always \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Good Friday April 7 2023_transcript.txt b/Good Friday April 7 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 7c1d068e7902ffa399202c15289f48a5c491363a..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Good Friday April 7 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,4096 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[269.98 --> 299.96] Thank you. -[299.98 --> 329.96] Thank you. -[329.98 --> 359.96] Thank you. -[359.98 --> 389.96] Thank you. -[389.98 --> 419.96] Thank you. -[419.98 --> 449.96] Thank you. -[449.98 --> 479.96] Thank you. -[479.98 --> 509.96] Thank you. -[509.98 --> 539.94] Thank you. -[539.94 --> 569.92] Thank you. -[569.92 --> 599.90] Thank you. -[599.90 --> 629.88] Thank you. -[629.88 --> 659.86] Thank you. -[659.88 --> 689.86] Thank you. -[689.88 --> 719.86] Thank you. -[719.88 --> 749.86] Thank you. -[749.86 --> 779.84] Thank you. -[779.84 --> 809.82] Thank you. -[809.82 --> 839.80] Thank you. -[839.80 --> 869.78] Thank you. -[869.80 --> 899.78] Thank you. -[899.80 --> 929.78] Thank you. -[929.78 --> 959.76] Thank you. -[959.76 --> 989.74] Thank you. -[989.74 --> 1019.72] Thank you. -[1019.72 --> 1049.70] Thank you. -[1049.70 --> 1079.68] Thank you. -[1079.70 --> 1109.68] Thank you. -[1109.68 --> 1139.66] Thank you. -[1139.66 --> 1169.64] Thank you. -[1169.66 --> 1199.64] Thank you. -[1199.66 --> 1229.64] Thank you. -[1229.64 --> 1259.62] Thank you. -[1259.64 --> 1289.62] Thank you. -[1289.64 --> 1319.62] Thank you. -[1319.64 --> 1349.62] Thank you. -[1349.62 --> 1379.60] Thank you. -[1379.60 --> 1409.58] Thank you. -[1409.60 --> 1439.60] Thank you. -[1439.60 --> 1469.58] Thank you. -[1469.60 --> 1499.58] Thank you. -[1499.60 --> 1529.60] Thank you. -[1529.60 --> 1559.58] Thank you. -[1559.58 --> 1589.56] Thank you. -[1589.58 --> 1619.56] Thank you. -[1619.58 --> 1649.56] Thank you. -[1649.56 --> 1679.54] Thank you. -[1679.56 --> 1709.56] Thank you. -[1709.56 --> 1739.54] Thank you. -[1739.56 --> 1769.56] And when you're -[1769.56 --> 1799.54] Jesus. -[1799.56 --> 1829.54] Heыв paraphoods. -[1829.54 --> 1843.14] who paid my dad and raised this life up from the dead oh praise the one who paid my dad and -[1843.14 --> 1860.66] raised this life up from the dead oh praise the one who paid my dad and raised this life up from the dead -[1860.66 --> 1884.42] jesus paid it all all to him i owe sin had left the crimson stain he washed it white as snow -[1890.66 --> 1913.78] holiness is your life in me making me clean through your blood -[1913.78 --> 1926.26] holiness is your fire in me purging my heart like a flood -[1926.26 --> 1940.18] i know you are perfect in holiness -[1940.18 --> 1953.62] your life in me setting me free making me holy -[1953.62 --> 1964.10] only the blood of jesus covers all of my sin -[1964.10 --> 1978.42] only the life of jesus renews me from within -[1978.42 --> 1982.90] your blood is enough -[1982.90 --> 1988.10] your mercy -[1988.10 --> 1990.90] complete -[1990.90 --> 1996.10] your work of atonement -[1996.10 --> 2003.70] paid for my debts making me holy -[2003.70 --> 2009.70] holy -[2009.70 --> 2015.38] only the blood of jesus -[2018.58 --> 2021.30] holiness -[2021.30 --> 2024.34] is your life in me -[2024.74 --> 2028.02] making me clean through your blood -[2028.02 --> 2036.84] Holiness is your fire in me -[2036.84 --> 2041.10] Purging my heart like a flood -[2041.10 --> 2049.76] I know you are -[2049.76 --> 2054.52] Perfect in holiness -[2054.52 --> 2061.22] Your life in me -[2061.22 --> 2063.92] Setting me free -[2063.92 --> 2067.28] Making me holy -[2067.28 --> 2073.88] Only the blood of Jesus -[2073.88 --> 2079.50] Covers all of my sin -[2079.50 --> 2086.20] Only the life of Jesus -[2086.20 --> 2092.20] Renews me from within -[2092.20 --> 2096.20] Your blood is enough -[2096.20 --> 2104.90] Your mercy complete -[2104.90 --> 2109.90] Your work of atonement -[2109.90 --> 2114.70] Pay for my debts -[2114.70 --> 2117.40] Making me holy -[2117.40 --> 2126.10] Only the blood of Jesus -[2126.10 --> 2130.46] You may have a seat -[2130.46 --> 2145.40] You may have a seat -[2156.10 --> 2185.54] Please join me in our church family prayer -[2186.10 --> 2190.70] Our Father in heaven -[2190.70 --> 2192.12] Hallowed be your name -[2192.12 --> 2194.14] Bless us this evening -[2194.14 --> 2195.54] As we gather to remember -[2195.54 --> 2197.80] And commemorate the life and death -[2197.80 --> 2199.14] Of our Lord and Savior -[2199.14 --> 2200.22] Jesus Christ -[2200.22 --> 2203.96] We have taken the time during Lent -[2203.96 --> 2206.06] To consider our relationship with you -[2206.06 --> 2208.38] And we humbly confess -[2208.38 --> 2209.62] That we are sinful -[2209.62 --> 2210.78] And broken -[2210.78 --> 2215.04] We all like sheep have gone astray -[2215.04 --> 2217.94] Each of us has turned to his own way -[2217.94 --> 2222.42] Despite the fact that you created us and sustain us -[2222.42 --> 2224.68] We love the things of the world -[2224.68 --> 2226.20] Rather than loving you -[2226.20 --> 2230.48] With all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength -[2230.48 --> 2233.80] We have not loved our neighbors -[2233.80 --> 2235.08] As ourselves -[2235.08 --> 2238.70] We rely on our own wisdom and thoughts -[2238.70 --> 2242.04] Rather than seeking guidance and direction from you -[2242.04 --> 2245.76] We have chosen pride over humility -[2245.76 --> 2249.34] We are unworthy of your love -[2249.34 --> 2250.88] Based on our own merit -[2250.88 --> 2252.78] Have mercy on us -[2252.78 --> 2256.36] We identify with King David -[2256.36 --> 2256.90] Who said -[2256.90 --> 2259.20] Have mercy on me, O God -[2259.20 --> 2261.26] According to your unfailing love -[2261.26 --> 2263.66] According to your great compassion -[2263.66 --> 2265.78] Blot out my transgressions -[2265.78 --> 2268.82] Wash away all my iniquity -[2268.82 --> 2270.94] And cleanse me from my sin -[2270.94 --> 2273.60] For I know my transgressions -[2273.60 --> 2276.70] And my sin is ever before me -[2276.70 --> 2278.58] Against you -[2278.58 --> 2281.32] You only have I sinned -[2281.32 --> 2283.58] And done what is evil in your sight -[2283.58 --> 2285.70] So that you are proved right -[2285.70 --> 2286.52] When you speak -[2286.52 --> 2287.50] And justified -[2287.50 --> 2288.66] When you judge -[2288.66 --> 2291.46] And yet, Father -[2291.46 --> 2294.20] We do not live as those without hope -[2294.20 --> 2296.70] For you are faithful to your promises -[2296.70 --> 2299.82] We thank you for your promise -[2299.82 --> 2300.76] To crush Satan -[2300.76 --> 2303.12] When mankind fell into sin -[2303.12 --> 2304.90] Through Adam and Eve -[2304.90 --> 2306.14] In the Garden of Eden -[2306.14 --> 2308.48] We thank you -[2308.48 --> 2310.64] For you did not spare your own son -[2310.64 --> 2313.10] But gave him up for all of us -[2313.10 --> 2315.94] Lamb of God -[2315.94 --> 2317.12] We praise you -[2317.12 --> 2319.24] For willingly coming into the world -[2319.24 --> 2319.90] As a human -[2319.90 --> 2322.22] In obedience to your Father's will -[2322.22 --> 2324.46] To accomplish his plan -[2324.46 --> 2325.92] For our redemption -[2325.92 --> 2329.06] We thank you for identifying -[2329.06 --> 2330.16] With us completely -[2330.16 --> 2332.16] And for suffering -[2332.16 --> 2334.58] And pouring out your life unto death -[2334.58 --> 2336.30] So that we could be redeemed -[2336.30 --> 2338.92] Lord Jesus -[2338.92 --> 2340.70] Impress upon us -[2340.70 --> 2342.34] The amazing compassion -[2342.34 --> 2344.94] That you showed through your sacrifice -[2344.94 --> 2347.34] We acknowledge -[2347.34 --> 2348.50] You were mocked -[2348.50 --> 2349.44] And ridiculed -[2349.44 --> 2350.52] For our sin -[2350.52 --> 2352.48] You were beaten -[2352.48 --> 2353.46] And flogged -[2353.46 --> 2354.54] For our sin -[2354.54 --> 2357.96] You wore the crown of thorns -[2357.96 --> 2359.40] For our sin -[2359.40 --> 2362.16] You carried the cross -[2362.16 --> 2362.96] To Golgotha -[2362.96 --> 2364.16] For our sin -[2364.16 --> 2367.54] You accepted the horrific pain -[2367.54 --> 2368.48] Of crucifixion -[2368.48 --> 2370.06] For our sin -[2370.06 --> 2372.60] You were forsaken -[2372.60 --> 2373.44] By your Father -[2373.44 --> 2374.92] For our sin -[2374.92 --> 2377.40] And you died -[2377.40 --> 2379.02] And descended into hell -[2379.02 --> 2380.60] For our sin -[2380.60 --> 2383.86] You deserved none of this -[2383.86 --> 2385.66] But endured all of it -[2385.66 --> 2386.66] For us -[2386.66 --> 2388.84] Indeed -[2388.84 --> 2390.56] You took up all our pain -[2390.56 --> 2392.08] And bore our suffering -[2392.08 --> 2394.20] So that we may experience -[2394.20 --> 2395.40] The glories of heaven -[2395.40 --> 2397.92] And so we come to you -[2397.92 --> 2398.48] In humility -[2398.48 --> 2400.22] With heartfelt gratitude -[2400.22 --> 2402.88] We thank you -[2402.88 --> 2403.40] For the mercy -[2403.40 --> 2404.62] That you have shown us -[2404.62 --> 2406.00] By taking our sin -[2406.00 --> 2406.60] To the cross -[2406.60 --> 2408.48] So that we no longer -[2408.48 --> 2409.56] Have to bear the weight -[2409.56 --> 2409.90] Of it -[2409.90 --> 2412.94] Lord Jesus -[2412.94 --> 2414.98] We thank you -[2414.98 --> 2415.82] That our old self -[2415.82 --> 2416.80] Died with you -[2416.80 --> 2418.12] And that we are -[2418.12 --> 2419.04] No longer slaves -[2419.04 --> 2419.58] To sin -[2419.58 --> 2421.36] Praise be to you -[2421.36 --> 2422.06] Lord Jesus -[2422.06 --> 2425.16] While death -[2425.16 --> 2425.86] While your death -[2425.86 --> 2426.52] And resurrection -[2426.52 --> 2428.46] Assure us of your victory -[2428.46 --> 2429.16] Over evil -[2429.16 --> 2431.62] We have yet to experience -[2431.62 --> 2432.48] That reality -[2432.48 --> 2433.56] In its fullest -[2433.56 --> 2436.02] And so today -[2436.02 --> 2437.68] We pray for the nations -[2437.68 --> 2438.26] Of the world -[2438.26 --> 2439.98] Because war -[2439.98 --> 2441.06] And threats of war -[2441.06 --> 2441.72] Are ongoing -[2441.72 --> 2442.66] In many areas -[2442.66 --> 2443.20] Of the world -[2443.20 --> 2445.84] People of various nations -[2445.84 --> 2446.78] Express hatred -[2446.78 --> 2448.24] For people of other nations -[2448.24 --> 2450.70] Resources are withheld -[2450.70 --> 2451.38] From the poor -[2451.38 --> 2452.74] Or from ethnic groups -[2452.74 --> 2454.46] In order to control -[2454.46 --> 2455.38] Or punish them -[2455.38 --> 2456.78] Or for the sake -[2456.78 --> 2457.66] Of self enrichment -[2457.66 --> 2460.92] We pray for an increase -[2460.92 --> 2461.58] Of peace -[2461.58 --> 2462.64] And justice -[2462.64 --> 2463.50] Where these things -[2463.50 --> 2464.10] Are occurring -[2464.10 --> 2467.84] We pray for our nation -[2467.84 --> 2468.84] And its leaders -[2468.84 --> 2471.42] We see a decline -[2471.42 --> 2472.16] In the morality -[2472.16 --> 2473.04] Of this nation -[2473.04 --> 2474.02] And it seems -[2474.02 --> 2474.92] To be accelerating -[2474.92 --> 2477.54] We have devalued -[2477.54 --> 2478.16] Human life -[2478.16 --> 2479.64] And no longer -[2479.64 --> 2480.48] Honor the dignity -[2480.48 --> 2481.44] Of every life -[2481.44 --> 2482.56] Whether unborn -[2482.56 --> 2483.68] Or alive -[2483.68 --> 2486.46] Our politicians -[2486.46 --> 2487.88] Often sow the seeds -[2487.88 --> 2488.42] Of division -[2488.42 --> 2489.82] For political gain -[2489.82 --> 2491.06] Rather than ruling -[2491.06 --> 2492.14] For the common good -[2492.14 --> 2495.06] Partisan politics -[2495.06 --> 2495.86] Can bend -[2495.86 --> 2497.22] Towards demeaning -[2497.22 --> 2498.88] Those we disagree with -[2498.88 --> 2502.46] We have lost -[2502.46 --> 2502.94] We have lost economic -[2502.94 --> 2504.12] Discipline as a nation -[2504.12 --> 2505.78] Materialism -[2505.78 --> 2507.04] Is ever increasing -[2507.04 --> 2509.60] The love of self -[2509.60 --> 2510.42] And concern -[2510.42 --> 2511.20] For our comfort -[2511.20 --> 2511.86] And convenience -[2511.86 --> 2512.56] Is growing -[2512.56 --> 2514.84] Self worth -[2514.84 --> 2515.76] Is often gauged -[2515.76 --> 2516.52] By status -[2516.52 --> 2517.76] Or how we compare -[2517.76 --> 2518.32] With others -[2518.32 --> 2520.00] Rather than -[2520.00 --> 2521.02] By who we are -[2521.02 --> 2522.10] Through the redemptive -[2522.10 --> 2523.50] Work of Christ Jesus -[2523.50 --> 2525.98] As a nation -[2525.98 --> 2527.28] We have traded -[2527.28 --> 2528.26] Our love of you -[2528.26 --> 2529.22] For the things -[2529.22 --> 2529.88] Of this world -[2529.88 --> 2531.72] And we are suffering -[2531.72 --> 2532.56] The consequences -[2532.56 --> 2534.76] Forgive us -[2534.76 --> 2535.82] And draw us -[2535.82 --> 2536.44] Back to you -[2536.44 --> 2538.36] So we may experience -[2538.36 --> 2538.94] Your goodness -[2538.94 --> 2540.18] And your love -[2540.18 --> 2543.06] We pray for your church -[2543.06 --> 2544.22] And its ministries -[2544.22 --> 2544.90] Both globally -[2544.90 --> 2545.54] And locally -[2545.54 --> 2547.36] Forgive us -[2547.36 --> 2548.10] For not showing -[2548.10 --> 2548.98] Love to others -[2548.98 --> 2550.80] Forgive us -[2550.80 --> 2551.28] For failing -[2551.28 --> 2551.96] To proclaim -[2551.96 --> 2552.68] The gospel -[2552.68 --> 2553.84] When the opportunity -[2553.84 --> 2554.54] Was given -[2554.54 --> 2557.00] Bind us in unity -[2557.00 --> 2557.50] Of witness -[2557.50 --> 2558.26] And service -[2558.26 --> 2560.48] Bless our church -[2560.48 --> 2560.80] Leaders -[2560.80 --> 2561.62] And ministers -[2561.62 --> 2562.66] And those -[2562.66 --> 2563.46] Whom they serve -[2563.46 --> 2566.14] Bless all members -[2566.14 --> 2566.76] Of the church -[2566.76 --> 2568.52] That in our vocation -[2568.52 --> 2569.10] And ministry -[2569.10 --> 2570.18] We may truly -[2570.18 --> 2571.20] And devoutly -[2571.20 --> 2572.06] Serve you -[2572.06 --> 2574.88] Be with those -[2574.88 --> 2575.38] Who have lost -[2575.38 --> 2575.94] Their faith -[2575.94 --> 2576.98] And bring them -[2576.98 --> 2578.02] Back into your fold -[2578.02 --> 2580.68] Be with those -[2580.68 --> 2581.20] Whose sin -[2581.20 --> 2581.94] Has made them -[2581.94 --> 2582.92] Indifferent to Christ -[2582.92 --> 2585.54] We pray for all -[2585.54 --> 2586.12] Who actively -[2586.12 --> 2587.06] Oppose Christ -[2587.06 --> 2588.00] By word -[2588.00 --> 2588.56] Or by deed -[2588.56 --> 2590.16] And for those -[2590.16 --> 2590.74] Who are enemies -[2590.74 --> 2591.36] Of the cross -[2591.36 --> 2591.90] Of Christ -[2591.90 --> 2594.26] And persecutors -[2594.26 --> 2595.04] Of his disciples -[2595.04 --> 2596.70] And for all -[2596.70 --> 2597.48] Who in the name -[2597.48 --> 2597.98] Of Christ -[2597.98 --> 2599.26] Have persecuted -[2599.26 --> 2599.72] Others -[2599.72 --> 2601.08] That you will -[2601.08 --> 2602.44] Open their hearts -[2602.44 --> 2603.60] To the truth -[2603.60 --> 2605.02] And lead them -[2605.02 --> 2605.74] To faith -[2605.74 --> 2606.50] And obedience -[2606.50 --> 2609.82] We pray for persons -[2609.82 --> 2610.92] With particular needs -[2610.92 --> 2612.68] For we acknowledge -[2612.68 --> 2613.78] That until all things -[2613.78 --> 2614.48] Are made new -[2614.48 --> 2616.46] We continue to experience -[2616.46 --> 2617.74] Pain and suffering -[2617.74 --> 2620.68] Comfort and relieve -[2620.68 --> 2621.54] All who suffer -[2621.54 --> 2622.62] With physical illness -[2622.62 --> 2624.78] Grant your presence -[2624.78 --> 2625.74] To those who struggle -[2625.74 --> 2626.72] With mental illness -[2626.72 --> 2627.86] That they will know -[2627.86 --> 2628.50] Your love -[2628.50 --> 2630.70] Guard the hearts -[2630.70 --> 2631.68] Of all who are ill -[2631.68 --> 2633.24] That they will not -[2633.24 --> 2634.20] Fall into despair -[2634.20 --> 2634.98] Or doubt -[2634.98 --> 2637.08] Walk beside them -[2637.08 --> 2638.18] And uphold them -[2638.18 --> 2639.58] Through the trials -[2639.58 --> 2640.76] And times of doubt -[2640.76 --> 2641.68] And darkness -[2641.68 --> 2646.60] Watch over those -[2646.60 --> 2647.08] Who hunger -[2647.08 --> 2648.14] Or are homeless -[2648.14 --> 2649.50] Provide for all -[2649.50 --> 2650.22] Of their needs -[2650.22 --> 2652.76] Bless all who mourn -[2652.76 --> 2653.74] Comfort them -[2653.74 --> 2654.34] In their time -[2654.34 --> 2655.22] Of grief and sorrow -[2655.22 --> 2656.98] And grant them -[2656.98 --> 2657.54] Your peace -[2657.54 --> 2658.82] And the strength -[2658.82 --> 2659.32] To cope -[2659.32 --> 2662.32] Be near to all -[2662.32 --> 2663.20] Who are experiencing -[2663.20 --> 2664.36] Broken relationships -[2664.36 --> 2665.88] Whether it is -[2665.88 --> 2666.72] Between spouses -[2666.72 --> 2668.26] Parents and children -[2668.26 --> 2669.50] Siblings -[2669.50 --> 2671.66] Or between friends -[2671.66 --> 2672.24] And neighbours -[2672.24 --> 2674.88] Work in their lives -[2674.88 --> 2676.06] To restore relationships -[2676.06 --> 2677.70] And to love one another -[2677.70 --> 2679.28] As you have loved us -[2679.28 --> 2682.16] Be with those -[2682.16 --> 2682.84] Who are experiencing -[2682.84 --> 2684.06] Financial difficulty -[2684.06 --> 2686.18] Provide the resources -[2686.18 --> 2687.02] And the work -[2687.02 --> 2687.62] That they need -[2687.62 --> 2688.78] To meet their needs -[2688.78 --> 2691.58] We pray for all -[2691.58 --> 2692.50] Who are unemployed -[2692.50 --> 2694.04] Or underemployed -[2694.04 --> 2696.00] Grant them meaningful -[2696.00 --> 2697.06] And enrichment employment -[2697.06 --> 2698.34] In keeping -[2698.34 --> 2699.30] With your calling -[2699.30 --> 2700.12] For their lives -[2700.12 --> 2703.18] Watch over all -[2703.18 --> 2703.78] Who struggle -[2703.78 --> 2705.08] With the sin -[2705.08 --> 2705.64] Of addiction -[2705.64 --> 2707.68] Particularly drugs -[2707.68 --> 2709.24] And alcohol -[2709.24 --> 2710.08] And pornography -[2710.08 --> 2711.48] Which are so prevalent -[2711.48 --> 2712.62] In our society -[2712.62 --> 2715.46] When temptation arises -[2715.46 --> 2717.94] Equip them to resist -[2717.94 --> 2719.04] By the power -[2719.04 --> 2719.82] Of your spirit -[2719.82 --> 2722.36] Be with all -[2722.36 --> 2723.04] Who are lonely -[2723.04 --> 2724.34] And isolated -[2724.34 --> 2726.18] Bless those -[2726.18 --> 2727.10] Who are held captive -[2727.10 --> 2729.22] Be with those -[2729.22 --> 2730.16] Who have been displaced -[2730.16 --> 2731.12] And those -[2731.12 --> 2732.26] Who suffer persecution -[2732.26 --> 2735.74] Grant us eyes -[2735.74 --> 2736.90] To recognize -[2736.90 --> 2738.02] When people are in pain -[2738.02 --> 2738.80] And are suffering -[2738.80 --> 2740.66] And stir up in us -[2740.66 --> 2741.04] The will -[2741.04 --> 2742.32] And the patience -[2742.32 --> 2743.14] To minister -[2743.14 --> 2744.38] To their needs -[2744.38 --> 2747.42] Holy God -[2747.42 --> 2748.72] Open our eyes -[2748.72 --> 2749.20] This day -[2749.20 --> 2751.02] To see in the cross -[2751.02 --> 2752.16] The revelation -[2752.16 --> 2753.06] Of your love -[2753.06 --> 2753.98] Through Jesus -[2753.98 --> 2754.76] The crucified -[2754.76 --> 2757.04] To whom with you -[2757.04 --> 2758.34] And the Holy Spirit -[2758.34 --> 2759.18] One God -[2759.18 --> 2761.22] Be honor and praise -[2761.22 --> 2763.12] Now and forever -[2763.12 --> 2763.94] Amen -[2777.42 --> 2792.68] Spend the next few minutes -[2792.68 --> 2794.34] Of our time together -[2794.34 --> 2796.80] Opening and reflecting -[2796.80 --> 2798.14] On God's word -[2798.14 --> 2800.76] We're going to look at -[2800.76 --> 2803.90] John 19 -[2803.90 --> 2805.74] I'm going to read -[2805.74 --> 2808.32] Verses 1 through 16 -[2808.32 --> 2810.88] Somewhere in the middle -[2810.88 --> 2811.90] Of my message -[2811.90 --> 2812.64] I'll flip into -[2812.64 --> 2813.92] Chapter 18 for a bit -[2813.92 --> 2815.34] So if you have a Bible -[2815.34 --> 2817.02] I do encourage you -[2817.02 --> 2817.64] To open that -[2817.64 --> 2818.44] And have it with you -[2818.44 --> 2820.62] And have that on hand -[2820.62 --> 2825.30] If you have it on a phone -[2825.30 --> 2826.10] Or a device -[2826.10 --> 2826.96] Or whatever -[2826.96 --> 2828.08] Get that ready -[2828.08 --> 2829.80] And read along with me -[2829.80 --> 2830.84] Our first go through -[2830.84 --> 2832.14] It will be on the screen -[2832.14 --> 2833.74] Over my shoulder -[2833.74 --> 2841.34] And so let's read together -[2841.34 --> 2842.96] From John 19 -[2842.96 --> 2844.56] Starting at verse 1 -[2844.56 --> 2849.56] Then Pilate took Jesus -[2849.56 --> 2851.48] And had him flogged -[2851.48 --> 2854.56] The soldiers twisted together -[2854.56 --> 2855.66] A crown of thorns -[2855.66 --> 2857.54] And put it on his head -[2857.54 --> 2859.80] They clothed him -[2859.80 --> 2860.82] In a purple robe -[2860.82 --> 2863.18] And went up to him again -[2863.18 --> 2864.12] And again saying -[2864.12 --> 2864.56] Hail -[2864.56 --> 2865.86] King of the Jews -[2865.86 --> 2867.72] And they slapped him -[2867.72 --> 2868.32] In the face -[2868.32 --> 2870.82] Once more -[2870.82 --> 2871.84] Pilate came out -[2871.84 --> 2873.00] And said to the Jews -[2873.00 --> 2873.84] Gathered there -[2873.84 --> 2875.08] Look -[2875.08 --> 2876.52] I am bringing him -[2876.52 --> 2877.24] Out to you -[2877.24 --> 2878.08] To let you know -[2878.08 --> 2879.06] That I find -[2879.06 --> 2879.90] No basis -[2879.90 --> 2881.22] For a charge -[2881.22 --> 2881.90] Against him -[2881.90 --> 2885.56] When Jesus came out -[2885.56 --> 2885.58] When Jesus came out -[2885.58 --> 2886.44] Wearing the crown -[2886.44 --> 2887.08] Of thorns -[2887.08 --> 2888.12] And the purple robe -[2888.12 --> 2889.76] Pilate said to them -[2889.76 --> 2891.94] Here is the man -[2891.94 --> 2894.08] And as soon as -[2894.08 --> 2895.04] The chief priests -[2895.04 --> 2896.02] And their officials -[2896.02 --> 2896.56] Saw him -[2896.56 --> 2897.20] They shouted -[2897.20 --> 2898.28] Crucify -[2898.28 --> 2899.46] Crucify -[2899.46 --> 2902.84] But Pilate answered -[2902.84 --> 2904.88] You take him -[2904.88 --> 2905.90] And crucify him -[2905.90 --> 2907.26] As for me -[2907.26 --> 2908.50] I find no basis -[2908.50 --> 2909.32] For a charge -[2909.32 --> 2910.04] Against him -[2910.04 --> 2913.26] The Jewish leaders -[2913.26 --> 2914.00] Insisted -[2914.00 --> 2916.86] We have a law -[2916.86 --> 2917.70] And according -[2917.70 --> 2919.06] To that law -[2919.06 --> 2920.24] He must die -[2920.24 --> 2921.56] Because he claimed -[2921.56 --> 2922.88] To be the son -[2922.88 --> 2923.72] Of God -[2923.72 --> 2926.46] And when Pilate -[2926.46 --> 2928.06] He was even more -[2928.06 --> 2928.58] Afraid -[2928.58 --> 2930.16] And he went back -[2930.16 --> 2931.40] Inside the palace -[2931.40 --> 2934.30] Where do you -[2934.30 --> 2934.96] Come from? -[2935.90 --> 2936.90] He asked Jesus -[2936.90 --> 2938.88] But Jesus -[2938.88 --> 2940.06] Gave him no answer -[2940.06 --> 2942.14] Do you refuse -[2942.14 --> 2943.12] To speak to me? -[2943.68 --> 2944.28] Pilate said -[2944.28 --> 2946.40] Don't you realize -[2946.40 --> 2947.64] That I have power -[2947.64 --> 2948.98] Either to free you -[2948.98 --> 2951.06] Or to crucify you? -[2953.06 --> 2954.24] Jesus answered -[2954.24 --> 2956.42] You would have -[2956.42 --> 2958.08] No power over me -[2958.08 --> 2959.58] If it were not -[2959.58 --> 2960.62] Given to you -[2960.62 --> 2961.36] From above -[2961.36 --> 2962.82] Therefore -[2962.82 --> 2963.50] The one -[2963.50 --> 2964.38] Who handed me -[2964.38 --> 2965.18] Over to you -[2965.18 --> 2965.90] Is guilty -[2965.90 --> 2967.28] Of a greater sin -[2967.28 --> 2970.78] From then on -[2970.78 --> 2971.76] Pilate tried -[2971.76 --> 2973.18] To set Jesus free -[2973.18 --> 2975.20] But the Jewish leaders -[2975.20 --> 2976.04] Kept shouting -[2976.04 --> 2977.74] If you let this man go -[2977.74 --> 2978.80] You are no friend -[2978.80 --> 2979.58] Of Caesar -[2979.58 --> 2981.24] Anyone who claims -[2981.24 --> 2982.14] To be a king -[2982.14 --> 2983.54] Opposes Caesar -[2983.54 --> 2986.38] When Pilate heard this -[2986.38 --> 2988.12] He brought Jesus -[2988.12 --> 2988.52] Out -[2988.52 --> 2989.94] And sat down -[2989.94 --> 2991.00] On the judge's seat -[2991.00 --> 2991.96] At a place -[2991.96 --> 2992.46] Known -[2992.46 --> 2994.18] As the stone pavement -[2994.18 --> 2996.56] Which in Aramaic -[2996.56 --> 2997.74] Is Gabbatha -[2997.74 --> 3000.04] It was the day -[3000.04 --> 3001.24] Of preparation -[3001.24 --> 3002.12] Of the Passover -[3002.12 --> 3003.50] It was about noon -[3003.50 --> 3005.94] Here is your king -[3005.94 --> 3006.86] Pilate said -[3006.86 --> 3007.50] To the Jews -[3007.50 --> 3009.62] But they shouted -[3009.62 --> 3010.64] Take him away -[3010.64 --> 3012.14] Take him away -[3012.14 --> 3013.38] Crucify him -[3013.38 --> 3016.66] Shall I crucify -[3016.66 --> 3017.26] Your king? -[3017.78 --> 3018.62] Pilate asked -[3018.62 --> 3021.78] We have no king -[3021.78 --> 3022.72] But Caesar -[3022.72 --> 3024.24] The chief priests -[3024.24 --> 3024.38] Answered -[3025.10 --> 3026.70] Finally -[3026.70 --> 3028.38] Pilate handed him -[3028.38 --> 3029.10] Over to them -[3029.10 --> 3030.64] To be crucified -[3030.64 --> 3033.70] This is the word -[3033.70 --> 3034.16] Of the Lord -[3034.16 --> 3041.48] Today -[3041.48 --> 3043.22] Good Friday -[3043.22 --> 3044.24] But really -[3044.24 --> 3045.26] Every day -[3045.26 --> 3047.44] We are faced -[3047.44 --> 3048.98] With a choice -[3048.98 --> 3050.92] But especially -[3050.92 --> 3052.26] Today -[3052.26 --> 3053.00] Especially -[3053.00 --> 3055.10] As we sit here -[3055.10 --> 3056.24] Together -[3056.24 --> 3058.08] A choice -[3058.08 --> 3058.94] Of how -[3058.94 --> 3060.30] We will see -[3060.30 --> 3061.18] Jesus -[3061.18 --> 3061.94] A choice -[3061.94 --> 3062.86] Of how we will -[3062.86 --> 3064.04] Approach him -[3064.04 --> 3066.06] Now it's the same -[3066.06 --> 3067.24] Choice that the people -[3067.24 --> 3068.82] In Jesus' day -[3068.82 --> 3069.60] Had -[3069.60 --> 3071.02] It's the same -[3071.02 --> 3071.66] Choice that -[3071.66 --> 3072.72] Pilate had -[3072.72 --> 3075.06] That's our choice -[3075.06 --> 3075.44] Today -[3075.44 --> 3076.60] And so to -[3076.60 --> 3077.88] Get at this -[3077.88 --> 3078.64] I'm going to -[3078.64 --> 3080.18] Walk us through -[3080.18 --> 3082.16] Three choices -[3082.16 --> 3083.62] In the story -[3083.62 --> 3085.00] That we just read -[3085.00 --> 3086.00] The choice -[3086.00 --> 3086.80] Of the leaders -[3086.80 --> 3087.56] And the people -[3087.56 --> 3088.40] The choice -[3088.40 --> 3089.14] Of Pilate -[3089.14 --> 3090.54] And the choice -[3090.54 --> 3091.66] Of Jesus -[3091.66 --> 3092.64] At the end -[3092.64 --> 3094.46] Three choices -[3094.46 --> 3096.36] Now throughout -[3096.36 --> 3097.24] This story -[3097.24 --> 3099.38] Pilate is -[3099.38 --> 3100.72] Shown to us -[3100.72 --> 3101.14] To be -[3101.14 --> 3102.70] Kind of reticent -[3102.70 --> 3103.80] To comply -[3103.80 --> 3105.68] With the wishes -[3105.68 --> 3107.18] Of the Jewish leaders -[3107.18 --> 3108.16] He's reluctant -[3108.16 --> 3109.34] To give in -[3109.34 --> 3110.08] To the crowds -[3110.08 --> 3111.24] That are thronging -[3111.24 --> 3112.94] Outside of his -[3112.94 --> 3113.80] Palace -[3113.80 --> 3114.20] Right -[3114.20 --> 3115.36] He says -[3115.36 --> 3117.62] In verse 6 -[3117.62 --> 3119.16] As for me -[3119.16 --> 3120.36] I find -[3120.36 --> 3122.04] No basis -[3122.04 --> 3123.54] For a charge -[3123.54 --> 3124.24] Against him -[3124.24 --> 3126.50] But still -[3126.50 --> 3127.84] Right -[3127.84 --> 3128.64] In that first -[3128.64 --> 3129.26] Choice -[3129.26 --> 3130.02] We see -[3130.02 --> 3130.58] Already -[3130.58 --> 3131.62] What the people -[3131.62 --> 3132.28] Have decided -[3132.28 --> 3133.54] They've made -[3133.54 --> 3134.12] Their choice -[3134.12 --> 3134.60] They shout -[3134.60 --> 3135.44] Crucify -[3135.44 --> 3136.70] Crucify -[3136.70 --> 3138.72] And the leaders -[3138.72 --> 3140.04] Insist -[3140.04 --> 3141.00] They say -[3141.00 --> 3142.62] We have a law -[3142.62 --> 3144.98] And according -[3144.98 --> 3145.82] To that law -[3145.82 --> 3147.14] He must die -[3147.14 --> 3149.48] The law -[3149.48 --> 3149.96] That they're -[3149.96 --> 3151.18] Referring to -[3151.18 --> 3152.52] Is probably -[3152.52 --> 3153.96] From Exodus -[3153.96 --> 3154.84] 24 -[3154.84 --> 3155.90] Verse 16 -[3155.90 --> 3157.24] Which -[3157.24 --> 3158.44] Or sorry -[3158.44 --> 3159.58] Leviticus 24 -[3159.58 --> 3160.30] Verse 16 -[3160.30 --> 3161.52] Which is -[3161.52 --> 3162.10] At the beginning -[3162.10 --> 3162.64] Of the Bible -[3162.64 --> 3163.94] Back in the -[3163.94 --> 3164.98] Torah -[3164.98 --> 3165.54] The first -[3165.54 --> 3166.36] Five books -[3166.36 --> 3167.88] That reads -[3167.88 --> 3169.70] Anyone -[3169.70 --> 3171.06] Who blasphemes -[3171.06 --> 3171.48] The name -[3171.48 --> 3172.12] Of the Lord -[3172.12 --> 3173.04] Is to be -[3173.04 --> 3173.70] Put to death -[3173.70 --> 3175.92] Now the word -[3175.92 --> 3176.72] Blaspheme -[3176.72 --> 3177.42] Means -[3177.42 --> 3178.76] To swear -[3178.76 --> 3179.70] Impiously -[3179.70 --> 3180.74] It means -[3180.74 --> 3181.68] To treat -[3181.68 --> 3182.30] God -[3182.30 --> 3183.24] Or sacred -[3183.24 --> 3183.96] Things -[3183.96 --> 3185.58] Disrespectfully -[3185.58 --> 3188.58] Now the people -[3188.58 --> 3189.42] Believed -[3189.42 --> 3191.10] That's what -[3191.10 --> 3191.54] Jesus -[3191.54 --> 3192.58] Did -[3192.58 --> 3193.14] When he -[3193.14 --> 3193.74] Claimed -[3193.74 --> 3194.34] To be -[3194.34 --> 3194.96] The son -[3194.96 --> 3196.02] Of God -[3196.02 --> 3196.56] When he -[3196.56 --> 3197.24] Said -[3197.24 --> 3197.70] That he -[3197.70 --> 3198.18] Was -[3198.18 --> 3198.96] God -[3198.96 --> 3201.72] To the -[3201.72 --> 3202.08] Jewish -[3202.08 --> 3202.68] Person -[3202.68 --> 3203.36] Of Jesus -[3203.36 --> 3203.76] Day -[3203.76 --> 3204.62] And still -[3204.62 --> 3205.00] True -[3205.00 --> 3205.84] In Orthodox -[3205.84 --> 3206.30] Judaism -[3206.30 --> 3206.74] Today -[3206.74 --> 3208.64] There is -[3208.64 --> 3209.20] No -[3209.20 --> 3210.22] More -[3210.22 --> 3211.32] Profound -[3211.32 --> 3211.94] And -[3211.94 --> 3213.16] Fundamentally -[3213.16 --> 3214.04] True -[3214.04 --> 3214.94] Statement -[3214.94 --> 3215.72] Than what -[3215.72 --> 3216.16] Has come -[3216.16 --> 3216.54] To be -[3216.54 --> 3216.86] Called -[3216.86 --> 3217.64] In Hebrew -[3217.64 --> 3218.80] The Shema -[3218.80 --> 3220.24] Right -[3220.24 --> 3220.50] It's -[3220.50 --> 3220.98] Prayed -[3220.98 --> 3221.82] Every morning -[3221.82 --> 3222.70] And every -[3222.70 --> 3223.12] Evening -[3223.12 --> 3223.92] It's recited -[3223.92 --> 3224.34] At the -[3224.34 --> 3224.70] Beginning -[3224.70 --> 3225.88] Of temple -[3225.88 --> 3226.52] Service -[3226.52 --> 3227.38] Shema -[3227.38 --> 3228.08] Yisrael -[3228.08 --> 3229.28] Yahweh -[3229.28 --> 3230.34] Eloheinu -[3230.34 --> 3231.10] Yahweh -[3231.10 --> 3231.76] Ahat -[3231.76 --> 3233.50] Shema -[3233.50 --> 3234.14] Yisrael -[3234.14 --> 3234.88] Hear -[3234.88 --> 3235.68] Oh -[3235.68 --> 3236.46] Lord -[3236.46 --> 3238.00] The Lord -[3238.00 --> 3238.78] Our God -[3238.78 --> 3239.76] The Lord -[3239.76 --> 3240.70] Is -[3240.70 --> 3241.74] One -[3241.74 --> 3243.90] God -[3243.90 --> 3244.20] And the -[3244.20 --> 3244.54] People -[3244.54 --> 3245.14] Can't -[3245.14 --> 3245.48] Wrap -[3245.48 --> 3245.74] Their -[3245.74 --> 3246.54] Minds -[3246.54 --> 3247.06] Around -[3247.06 --> 3247.42] The -[3247.42 --> 3247.98] Idea -[3247.98 --> 3248.96] That -[3248.96 --> 3249.40] Jesus -[3249.40 --> 3250.08] Is -[3250.08 --> 3250.74] God -[3250.74 --> 3251.08] That -[3251.08 --> 3251.44] Jesus -[3251.44 --> 3251.78] Is -[3251.78 --> 3252.18] One -[3252.18 --> 3252.46] With -[3252.46 --> 3252.62] The -[3252.62 --> 3253.00] Father -[3253.00 --> 3253.62] And -[3253.62 --> 3253.80] The -[3253.80 --> 3254.16] Spirit -[3254.16 --> 3254.82] And so -[3254.82 --> 3255.74] The only -[3255.74 --> 3256.16] Choice -[3256.16 --> 3256.52] Left -[3256.52 --> 3256.78] For -[3256.78 --> 3257.10] Them -[3257.10 --> 3258.24] Is -[3258.24 --> 3258.58] To say -[3258.58 --> 3258.74] That -[3258.74 --> 3258.94] He's -[3258.94 --> 3259.72] Blaspheming -[3259.72 --> 3262.12] And so -[3262.12 --> 3262.42] He must -[3262.42 --> 3262.80] Die -[3262.80 --> 3266.64] Now -[3266.64 --> 3267.22] Before -[3267.22 --> 3267.82] That law -[3267.82 --> 3268.12] In -[3268.12 --> 3268.72] Leviticus -[3268.72 --> 3269.32] 24 -[3269.32 --> 3270.54] There's -[3270.54 --> 3271.78] An earlier -[3271.78 --> 3272.44] Statement -[3272.44 --> 3272.78] Of it -[3272.78 --> 3273.00] In -[3273.00 --> 3273.42] Exodus -[3273.42 --> 3274.40] 22 -[3274.40 --> 3275.68] Exodus -[3275.68 --> 3276.28] 22 -[3276.28 --> 3277.04] Verse -[3277.04 --> 3277.48] 28 -[3277.48 --> 3277.70] Which -[3277.70 --> 3277.98] Says -[3277.98 --> 3278.58] Do -[3278.58 --> 3278.80] Not -[3278.80 --> 3279.54] Blaspheme -[3279.54 --> 3280.08] God -[3280.08 --> 3280.48] Or -[3280.48 --> 3281.00] Curse -[3281.00 --> 3281.28] The -[3281.28 --> 3281.68] Ruler -[3281.68 --> 3282.06] Of -[3282.06 --> 3282.24] Your -[3282.24 --> 3282.64] People -[3282.64 --> 3285.86] Interestingly -[3285.86 --> 3287.52] In the -[3287.52 --> 3288.06] Application -[3288.06 --> 3288.84] Of the -[3288.84 --> 3289.26] Jewish -[3289.26 --> 3289.90] Leaders -[3289.90 --> 3290.76] Jesus -[3290.76 --> 3291.36] Is -[3291.36 --> 3291.70] Doing -[3291.70 --> 3292.24] Both -[3292.24 --> 3293.46] Right -[3293.46 --> 3293.62] He -[3293.62 --> 3293.80] Is -[3293.80 --> 3294.54] Blaspheming -[3294.54 --> 3294.88] God -[3294.88 --> 3295.10] By -[3295.10 --> 3295.50] Claiming -[3295.50 --> 3295.62] To -[3295.62 --> 3295.76] Be -[3295.76 --> 3295.98] The -[3295.98 --> 3296.24] Son -[3296.24 --> 3296.50] Of -[3296.50 --> 3296.86] God -[3296.86 --> 3297.30] Right -[3297.30 --> 3297.44] He -[3297.44 --> 3297.88] Says -[3297.88 --> 3298.50] I -[3298.50 --> 3299.02] Am -[3299.02 --> 3299.62] Right -[3299.62 --> 3299.90] Over -[3299.90 --> 3300.10] And -[3300.10 --> 3300.32] Over -[3300.32 --> 3300.60] In -[3300.60 --> 3301.26] John's -[3301.26 --> 3301.62] Gospel -[3301.62 --> 3301.86] He -[3301.86 --> 3302.22] Takes -[3302.22 --> 3302.60] On -[3302.60 --> 3302.86] The -[3302.86 --> 3303.34] Covenant -[3303.34 --> 3303.90] Name -[3303.90 --> 3304.14] Of -[3304.14 --> 3304.50] God -[3304.50 --> 3305.12] Yahweh -[3305.12 --> 3305.44] In -[3305.44 --> 3305.68] Saying -[3305.68 --> 3305.88] That -[3305.88 --> 3306.04] I -[3306.04 --> 3306.34] Am -[3306.34 --> 3307.34] And -[3307.34 --> 3307.70] He's -[3307.70 --> 3308.70] Cursing -[3308.70 --> 3309.18] The -[3309.18 --> 3309.54] Ruler -[3309.54 --> 3309.78] Of -[3309.78 --> 3309.90] The -[3309.90 --> 3310.24] People -[3310.24 --> 3311.10] Even -[3311.10 --> 3311.46] If -[3311.46 --> 3311.74] That -[3311.74 --> 3312.24] Ruler -[3312.24 --> 3313.08] Is -[3313.08 --> 3313.22] A -[3313.22 --> 3313.46] Roman -[3313.46 --> 3314.80] Right -[3314.80 --> 3315.00] By -[3315.00 --> 3315.48] Claiming -[3315.48 --> 3315.70] The -[3315.70 --> 3316.10] Mantle -[3316.10 --> 3316.46] King -[3316.46 --> 3316.66] Of -[3316.66 --> 3316.82] The -[3316.82 --> 3317.32] Jews -[3317.32 --> 3317.98] He's -[3317.98 --> 3318.60] Challenging -[3318.60 --> 3318.88] Not -[3318.88 --> 3319.30] Only -[3319.30 --> 3319.94] The -[3319.94 --> 3320.56] Leaders -[3320.56 --> 3321.10] Of -[3321.10 --> 3321.76] Jerusalem -[3321.76 --> 3322.76] But -[3322.76 --> 3323.24] Also -[3323.24 --> 3324.12] Caesar -[3324.12 --> 3325.06] In -[3325.06 --> 3325.18] The -[3325.18 --> 3325.40] Roman -[3325.40 --> 3325.84] Empire -[3325.84 --> 3327.70] Now -[3327.70 --> 3328.66] For -[3328.66 --> 3329.04] Sure -[3329.04 --> 3330.50] Historically -[3330.50 --> 3330.94] The -[3330.94 --> 3331.92] Pharisees -[3331.92 --> 3332.10] And -[3332.10 --> 3332.26] The -[3332.26 --> 3332.80] Officials -[3332.80 --> 3333.36] Would -[3333.36 --> 3333.56] Have -[3333.56 --> 3334.88] Bristled -[3334.88 --> 3335.76] Against -[3335.76 --> 3336.62] The -[3336.62 --> 3337.06] Use -[3337.06 --> 3337.66] Of -[3337.66 --> 3337.88] An -[3337.88 --> 3338.38] Appeal -[3338.38 --> 3338.62] To -[3338.62 --> 3339.14] Caesar -[3339.14 --> 3340.58] And -[3340.58 --> 3340.86] The -[3340.86 --> 3341.30] People -[3341.30 --> 3342.00] Generally -[3342.00 --> 3342.70] Who -[3342.70 --> 3342.86] Had -[3342.86 --> 3343.04] Been -[3343.04 --> 3343.52] Living -[3343.52 --> 3343.94] Under -[3343.94 --> 3344.22] The -[3344.22 --> 3344.78] Oppressive -[3344.78 --> 3345.24] Thumb -[3345.24 --> 3345.42] Of -[3345.42 --> 3345.60] The -[3345.60 --> 3345.88] Roman -[3345.88 --> 3346.34] Empire -[3346.34 --> 3346.60] For -[3346.60 --> 3347.36] Generations -[3347.36 --> 3347.98] Would -[3347.98 --> 3348.20] Have -[3348.20 --> 3348.98] Ordinarily -[3348.98 --> 3351.00] Repudiated -[3351.00 --> 3351.22] The -[3351.22 --> 3351.74] Idea -[3351.74 --> 3352.54] Of -[3352.54 --> 3353.26] Submitting -[3353.26 --> 3353.86] To -[3353.86 --> 3354.28] Caesar -[3354.28 --> 3356.40] But -[3356.40 --> 3356.68] That's -[3356.68 --> 3356.86] How -[3356.86 --> 3357.18] Far -[3357.18 --> 3357.48] They've -[3357.48 --> 3357.96] Come -[3357.96 --> 3358.60] In -[3358.60 --> 3358.86] Their -[3358.86 --> 3359.82] Rejection -[3359.82 --> 3360.88] Of -[3360.88 --> 3361.42] Jesus -[3361.42 --> 3363.50] At -[3363.50 --> 3363.62] The -[3363.62 --> 3363.78] End -[3363.78 --> 3363.88] Of -[3363.88 --> 3364.02] The -[3364.02 --> 3364.42] Story -[3364.42 --> 3364.88] Pilate -[3364.88 --> 3365.32] Asks -[3365.32 --> 3365.86] Shall -[3365.86 --> 3366.04] I -[3366.04 --> 3366.56] Crucify -[3366.56 --> 3366.84] Your -[3366.84 --> 3367.22] King -[3367.22 --> 3367.66] And -[3367.66 --> 3367.82] The -[3367.82 --> 3368.12] Chief -[3368.12 --> 3368.70] Priests -[3368.70 --> 3369.22] Answer -[3369.22 --> 3370.12] We -[3370.12 --> 3370.46] Have -[3370.46 --> 3370.76] No -[3370.76 --> 3371.20] King -[3371.20 --> 3371.80] But -[3371.80 --> 3372.20] Caesar -[3372.20 --> 3374.30] They've -[3374.30 --> 3374.58] Made -[3374.58 --> 3374.80] Their -[3374.80 --> 3375.42] Choice -[3375.42 --> 3377.18] And -[3377.18 --> 3377.34] It's -[3377.34 --> 3378.06] Rejection -[3378.06 --> 3380.80] And -[3380.80 --> 3381.46] Pilate -[3381.46 --> 3382.62] As -[3382.62 --> 3382.94] The -[3382.94 --> 3383.76] Roman -[3383.76 --> 3384.54] Governor -[3384.54 --> 3385.60] In -[3385.60 --> 3385.84] This -[3385.84 --> 3386.24] Story -[3386.24 --> 3386.74] Actually -[3386.74 --> 3387.42] In -[3387.42 --> 3388.22] Relationship -[3388.22 --> 3388.38] To -[3388.38 --> 3388.60] The -[3388.60 --> 3389.38] Leaders -[3389.38 --> 3390.18] There -[3390.18 --> 3390.62] Has -[3390.62 --> 3391.10] Little -[3391.10 --> 3391.90] Choice -[3391.90 --> 3393.14] Because -[3393.14 --> 3393.30] You -[3393.30 --> 3393.48] See -[3393.48 --> 3393.72] As -[3393.72 --> 3394.32] Prefect -[3394.32 --> 3394.62] As -[3394.62 --> 3395.40] Governor -[3395.40 --> 3395.76] He -[3395.76 --> 3396.00] Is -[3396.00 --> 3396.80] Responsible -[3396.80 --> 3397.10] For -[3397.10 --> 3397.50] Keeping -[3397.50 --> 3397.80] The -[3397.80 --> 3398.28] Peace -[3398.28 --> 3398.90] Of -[3398.90 --> 3399.10] The -[3399.10 --> 3399.50] Region -[3399.50 --> 3399.92] Over -[3399.92 --> 3400.30] Which -[3400.30 --> 3400.48] He -[3400.48 --> 3400.70] Has -[3400.70 --> 3400.84] Been -[3400.84 --> 3401.04] Put -[3401.04 --> 3401.22] In -[3401.22 --> 3401.60] Charge -[3401.60 --> 3403.18] And -[3403.18 --> 3403.40] One -[3403.40 --> 3403.58] Of -[3403.58 --> 3403.72] The -[3403.72 --> 3404.08] Ways -[3404.08 --> 3404.36] That -[3404.36 --> 3404.72] The -[3404.72 --> 3405.00] Roman -[3405.00 --> 3405.60] Empire -[3405.60 --> 3405.96] Was -[3405.96 --> 3406.44] So -[3406.44 --> 3407.60] Effective -[3407.60 --> 3408.56] In -[3408.56 --> 3409.94] Continuing -[3409.94 --> 3410.50] That -[3410.50 --> 3411.00] Peace -[3411.00 --> 3411.32] And -[3411.32 --> 3411.78] Making -[3411.78 --> 3412.06] That -[3412.06 --> 3412.54] Happen -[3412.54 --> 3413.20] Was -[3413.20 --> 3413.46] To -[3413.46 --> 3414.24] Continue -[3414.24 --> 3415.44] Enforcing -[3415.44 --> 3416.10] Local -[3416.10 --> 3416.86] Laws -[3416.86 --> 3417.92] And -[3417.92 --> 3418.14] So -[3418.14 --> 3418.64] The -[3418.64 --> 3419.32] Local -[3419.32 --> 3419.66] In -[3419.66 --> 3419.86] This -[3419.86 --> 3420.10] Case -[3420.10 --> 3420.60] Jewish -[3420.60 --> 3421.22] Moral -[3421.22 --> 3421.44] And -[3421.44 --> 3421.84] Legal -[3421.84 --> 3422.34] Code -[3422.34 --> 3423.24] Wasn't -[3423.24 --> 3423.48] Done -[3423.48 --> 3423.86] Away -[3423.86 --> 3424.30] With -[3424.30 --> 3424.70] When -[3424.70 --> 3425.22] Roman -[3425.22 --> 3426.30] Soldiers -[3426.30 --> 3426.66] And -[3426.66 --> 3427.12] Leaders -[3427.12 --> 3427.60] Came -[3427.60 --> 3427.98] In -[3427.98 --> 3428.90] It -[3428.90 --> 3429.08] Was -[3429.08 --> 3429.48] Just -[3429.48 --> 3430.92] Subjugated -[3430.92 --> 3431.44] To -[3431.44 --> 3432.10] Roman -[3432.10 --> 3432.84] Oversight -[3432.84 --> 3434.12] Roman -[3434.12 --> 3434.66] Law -[3434.66 --> 3435.08] And -[3435.08 --> 3435.72] Enforcement -[3435.72 --> 3437.02] Sort -[3437.02 --> 3437.20] Of -[3437.20 --> 3438.58] Adopted -[3438.58 --> 3439.44] The -[3439.44 --> 3439.84] Jewish -[3439.84 --> 3440.68] Law -[3440.68 --> 3441.40] And -[3441.40 --> 3441.56] So -[3441.56 --> 3442.28] Pilate -[3442.28 --> 3442.70] Has -[3442.70 --> 3443.00] This -[3443.00 --> 3444.14] Responsibility -[3444.14 --> 3444.92] To -[3444.92 --> 3445.44] Follow -[3445.44 --> 3446.06] Through -[3446.06 --> 3446.78] When -[3446.78 --> 3446.94] The -[3446.94 --> 3447.22] Chief -[3447.22 --> 3447.74] Priests -[3447.74 --> 3448.10] Say -[3448.10 --> 3448.28] To -[3448.28 --> 3448.56] Him -[3448.56 --> 3449.04] We -[3449.04 --> 3449.30] Have -[3449.30 --> 3449.42] A -[3449.42 --> 3449.70] Law -[3449.70 --> 3450.70] Right -[3450.70 --> 3450.74] He -[3450.74 --> 3450.84] Is -[3450.84 --> 3451.22] Effectively -[3451.22 --> 3451.52] Saying -[3451.52 --> 3451.72] To -[3451.72 --> 3452.02] Pilate -[3452.02 --> 3452.46] We -[3452.46 --> 3452.72] Have -[3452.72 --> 3452.90] A -[3452.90 --> 3453.22] Law -[3453.22 --> 3453.52] And -[3453.52 --> 3453.90] You -[3453.90 --> 3454.46] Have -[3454.46 --> 3454.60] A -[3454.60 --> 3454.98] Job -[3454.98 --> 3457.12] So -[3457.12 --> 3457.36] Again -[3457.36 --> 3457.62] The -[3457.62 --> 3458.00] People -[3458.00 --> 3458.26] Have -[3458.26 --> 3458.56] Made -[3458.56 --> 3458.84] Their -[3458.84 --> 3459.54] Choice -[3459.54 --> 3459.82] The -[3459.82 --> 3460.76] Leaders -[3460.76 --> 3461.06] Have -[3461.06 --> 3461.36] Made -[3461.36 --> 3461.64] Their -[3461.64 --> 3462.16] Choice -[3462.16 --> 3462.42] They -[3462.42 --> 3463.04] Picked -[3463.04 --> 3463.80] Their -[3463.80 --> 3464.08] Bed -[3464.08 --> 3464.52] Fellow -[3464.52 --> 3467.46] And -[3467.46 --> 3467.58] Now -[3467.58 --> 3467.70] The -[3467.70 --> 3468.34] Proceedings -[3468.34 --> 3468.54] In -[3468.54 --> 3468.72] Front -[3468.72 --> 3468.88] Of -[3468.88 --> 3469.20] Pilate -[3469.20 --> 3469.72] Continue -[3469.72 --> 3471.38] And -[3471.38 --> 3471.52] He -[3471.52 --> 3472.08] Questions -[3472.08 --> 3473.30] Jesus -[3473.30 --> 3474.98] He -[3474.98 --> 3475.46] Asks -[3475.46 --> 3477.36] In -[3477.36 --> 3477.70] Verse -[3477.70 --> 3478.12] Nine -[3478.12 --> 3478.88] Where -[3478.88 --> 3479.20] Do -[3479.20 --> 3479.56] You -[3479.56 --> 3480.52] Come -[3480.52 --> 3480.92] From -[3480.92 --> 3483.12] Now -[3483.12 --> 3483.28] This -[3483.28 --> 3483.40] Is -[3483.40 --> 3483.54] A -[3483.54 --> 3483.72] Really -[3483.72 --> 3484.34] Loaded -[3484.34 --> 3484.90] Question -[3484.90 --> 3485.64] For -[3485.64 --> 3486.04] Pilate -[3486.04 --> 3487.48] Pilate -[3487.48 --> 3487.66] Is -[3487.66 --> 3487.98] Not -[3487.98 --> 3488.66] Asking -[3488.66 --> 3489.54] Were -[3489.54 --> 3489.70] You -[3489.70 --> 3490.00] Born -[3490.00 --> 3490.18] In -[3490.18 --> 3490.74] Bethlehem -[3490.74 --> 3491.96] Did -[3491.96 --> 3492.10] You -[3492.10 --> 3492.50] Escape -[3492.50 --> 3492.70] To -[3492.70 --> 3493.00] Egypt -[3493.00 --> 3493.42] As -[3493.42 --> 3493.70] A -[3493.70 --> 3494.18] Baby -[3494.18 --> 3494.40] And -[3494.40 --> 3494.52] Then -[3494.52 --> 3494.72] Come -[3494.72 --> 3495.00] Back -[3495.00 --> 3495.14] And -[3495.14 --> 3495.24] Were -[3495.24 --> 3495.40] You -[3495.40 --> 3495.76] Raised -[3495.76 --> 3495.96] In -[3495.96 --> 3496.60] Nazareth -[3496.60 --> 3498.12] He -[3498.12 --> 3498.40] Is -[3498.40 --> 3499.04] Asking -[3499.04 --> 3499.96] Are -[3499.96 --> 3500.18] You -[3500.18 --> 3500.46] From -[3500.46 --> 3500.92] Heaven -[3500.92 --> 3502.64] He's -[3502.64 --> 3503.14] Asking -[3503.14 --> 3503.42] Are -[3503.42 --> 3503.74] You -[3503.74 --> 3504.30] From -[3504.30 --> 3504.90] God -[3504.90 --> 3505.22] Are -[3505.22 --> 3505.66] You -[3505.66 --> 3506.62] God -[3506.62 --> 3508.28] And -[3508.28 --> 3508.46] Look -[3508.46 --> 3508.70] I -[3508.70 --> 3509.24] Believe -[3509.24 --> 3509.60] That -[3509.60 --> 3510.20] This -[3510.20 --> 3510.44] Is -[3510.44 --> 3510.64] The -[3510.64 --> 3511.02] First -[3511.02 --> 3511.90] Genuine -[3511.90 --> 3512.70] Question -[3512.70 --> 3513.04] That -[3513.04 --> 3513.48] Pilate -[3513.48 --> 3513.92] Asks -[3513.92 --> 3514.34] Jesus -[3514.34 --> 3514.96] In -[3514.96 --> 3515.16] This -[3515.16 --> 3515.46] Bigger -[3515.46 --> 3515.92] Story -[3515.92 --> 3517.28] Right -[3517.28 --> 3517.42] The -[3517.42 --> 3517.92] Trial -[3517.92 --> 3518.12] Of -[3518.12 --> 3518.36] Jesus -[3518.36 --> 3518.58] In -[3518.58 --> 3518.72] Front -[3518.72 --> 3518.84] Of -[3518.84 --> 3519.10] Pilate -[3519.10 --> 3519.28] Has -[3519.28 --> 3519.42] Been -[3519.42 --> 3519.60] Going -[3519.60 --> 3519.82] On -[3519.82 --> 3519.96] For -[3519.96 --> 3520.08] A -[3520.08 --> 3520.18] Little -[3520.18 --> 3520.52] While -[3520.52 --> 3520.84] Jesus -[3520.84 --> 3521.22] Comes -[3521.22 --> 3521.38] To -[3521.38 --> 3521.64] Him -[3521.64 --> 3522.30] There -[3522.30 --> 3522.44] Are -[3522.44 --> 3522.90] Questions -[3522.90 --> 3523.36] And -[3523.36 --> 3523.74] Pilate -[3523.74 --> 3523.98] Goes -[3523.98 --> 3524.12] To -[3524.12 --> 3524.24] The -[3524.24 --> 3524.58] People -[3524.58 --> 3524.82] And -[3524.82 --> 3524.96] He -[3524.96 --> 3525.22] Asks -[3525.22 --> 3525.36] Some -[3525.36 --> 3525.68] Questions -[3525.68 --> 3525.92] And -[3525.92 --> 3526.06] He -[3526.06 --> 3526.26] Comes -[3526.26 --> 3526.50] Back -[3526.50 --> 3526.66] To -[3526.66 --> 3526.94] Jesus -[3526.94 --> 3527.14] And -[3527.14 --> 3527.22] He -[3527.22 --> 3527.36] Asks -[3527.36 --> 3527.46] A -[3527.46 --> 3527.60] Couple -[3527.60 --> 3527.86] More -[3527.86 --> 3528.30] Questions -[3528.30 --> 3529.10] And -[3529.10 --> 3529.20] Then -[3529.20 --> 3529.30] He -[3529.30 --> 3529.48] Goes -[3529.48 --> 3529.62] To -[3529.62 --> 3529.74] The -[3529.74 --> 3529.98] Leaders -[3529.98 --> 3530.16] And -[3530.16 --> 3530.24] He -[3530.24 --> 3530.40] Says -[3530.40 --> 3530.68] Look -[3530.68 --> 3531.50] There's -[3531.50 --> 3531.68] No -[3531.68 --> 3532.00] Reason -[3532.00 --> 3532.20] For -[3532.20 --> 3532.28] Me -[3532.28 --> 3532.38] To -[3532.38 --> 3532.50] Be -[3532.50 --> 3533.10] In -[3533.10 --> 3533.34] This -[3533.34 --> 3533.60] You -[3533.60 --> 3533.86] Guys -[3533.86 --> 3534.16] Deal -[3534.16 --> 3534.36] With -[3534.36 --> 3534.68] This -[3534.68 --> 3536.24] Here's -[3536.24 --> 3536.40] Where -[3536.40 --> 3536.50] I -[3536.50 --> 3536.62] Want -[3536.62 --> 3536.70] You -[3536.70 --> 3536.80] To -[3536.80 --> 3536.96] See -[3536.96 --> 3537.12] In -[3537.12 --> 3537.78] Chapter -[3537.78 --> 3538.24] 18 -[3538.24 --> 3540.48] Pilate -[3540.48 --> 3540.74] Says -[3540.74 --> 3540.96] In -[3540.96 --> 3541.36] Verse -[3541.36 --> 3541.86] 31 -[3541.86 --> 3542.56] He -[3542.56 --> 3542.76] Says -[3542.76 --> 3543.04] Take -[3543.04 --> 3543.36] Him -[3543.36 --> 3543.66] Your -[3551.64 --> 3552.10] Anyone -[3552.10 --> 3554.00] So -[3554.00 --> 3554.34] Pilate -[3554.34 --> 3554.58] Goes -[3554.58 --> 3554.88] Back -[3554.88 --> 3555.48] Inside -[3555.48 --> 3556.08] And -[3556.08 --> 3556.20] He -[3556.20 --> 3556.48] Asks -[3556.48 --> 3556.80] Jesus -[3556.80 --> 3557.10] Another -[3557.10 --> 3557.40] Question -[3557.40 --> 3557.52] He -[3557.52 --> 3557.62] Says -[3557.62 --> 3557.80] Are -[3557.80 --> 3558.02] You -[3558.02 --> 3558.20] The -[3558.20 --> 3558.38] King -[3558.38 --> 3558.50] Of -[3558.50 --> 3558.62] The -[3558.62 --> 3559.02] Jews -[3559.02 --> 3560.48] And -[3560.48 --> 3560.62] Then -[3560.62 --> 3560.92] Jesus -[3560.92 --> 3561.58] Replies -[3561.58 --> 3562.40] Is -[3562.40 --> 3562.56] That -[3562.56 --> 3562.72] Your -[3562.72 --> 3562.96] Own -[3562.96 --> 3563.36] Idea -[3563.36 --> 3564.74] Or -[3564.74 --> 3564.90] Did -[3564.90 --> 3565.12] Others -[3565.12 --> 3565.42] Talk -[3565.42 --> 3565.56] To -[3565.56 --> 3565.66] You -[3565.66 --> 3565.92] About -[3565.92 --> 3566.18] Me -[3566.18 --> 3567.98] You -[3567.98 --> 3568.58] See -[3568.58 --> 3568.78] What's -[3568.78 --> 3568.98] Going -[3568.98 --> 3569.20] On -[3569.20 --> 3569.32] There -[3569.32 --> 3569.54] That's -[3569.54 --> 3569.68] Why -[3569.68 --> 3569.82] I -[3569.82 --> 3570.02] Think -[3570.02 --> 3570.48] That -[3570.48 --> 3570.86] His -[3570.86 --> 3571.32] Question -[3571.32 --> 3571.64] In -[3571.64 --> 3572.46] Chapter -[3572.46 --> 3572.88] 19 -[3572.88 --> 3573.30] Is -[3573.30 --> 3573.44] His -[3573.44 --> 3573.62] First -[3573.62 --> 3574.00] Genuine -[3574.00 --> 3574.26] One -[3574.26 --> 3574.52] Because -[3574.52 --> 3574.84] Here -[3574.84 --> 3575.34] He's -[3575.34 --> 3575.52] Just -[3575.52 --> 3575.86] Parot -[3575.86 --> 3576.50] What's -[3576.50 --> 3576.64] Been -[3576.64 --> 3576.86] Said -[3576.86 --> 3577.00] To -[3577.00 --> 3577.20] Him -[3577.20 --> 3579.72] Right -[3579.72 --> 3579.88] And -[3581.64 --> 3583.46] Your -[3583.46 --> 3583.64] Own -[3583.64 --> 3583.98] People -[3583.98 --> 3584.20] And -[3584.20 --> 3584.42] Chief -[3584.42 --> 3584.72] Priests -[3584.72 --> 3584.86] Have -[3584.86 --> 3585.10] Handed -[3585.10 --> 3585.22] You -[3585.22 --> 3585.48] Over -[3585.48 --> 3585.66] To -[3585.66 --> 3585.86] Me -[3585.86 --> 3586.42] What -[3586.42 --> 3586.60] Is -[3586.60 --> 3586.72] It -[3586.72 --> 3586.86] You -[3586.86 --> 3587.04] Have -[3587.04 --> 3587.40] Done -[3587.40 --> 3589.26] Jesus -[3589.26 --> 3589.52] Says -[3589.52 --> 3589.72] My -[3589.72 --> 3590.00] Kingdom -[3590.00 --> 3590.22] Is -[3590.22 --> 3590.44] Not -[3590.44 --> 3590.64] Of -[3590.64 --> 3590.86] This -[3590.86 --> 3591.24] World -[3591.24 --> 3591.82] If -[3591.82 --> 3591.94] It -[3591.94 --> 3592.10] Were -[3592.10 --> 3592.34] My -[3592.34 --> 3592.82] Servants -[3592.82 --> 3593.28] Would -[3593.28 --> 3593.56] Fight -[3593.56 --> 3593.70] To -[3593.70 --> 3594.00] Prevent -[3594.00 --> 3594.20] My -[3594.20 --> 3594.54] Arrest -[3594.54 --> 3594.72] By -[3594.72 --> 3594.84] The -[3594.84 --> 3595.08] Jewish -[3595.08 --> 3595.46] Leaders -[3595.46 --> 3596.40] And -[3596.40 --> 3596.66] Pilate -[3596.66 --> 3596.82] Goes -[3596.82 --> 3597.10] Ah -[3597.10 --> 3597.24] Ha -[3597.24 --> 3597.56] Ha -[3597.56 --> 3598.26] Got -[3598.26 --> 3598.50] You -[3598.50 --> 3598.72] You -[3598.72 --> 3598.96] Are -[3598.96 --> 3599.14] A -[3599.14 --> 3599.40] King -[3599.40 --> 3600.90] And -[3600.90 --> 3601.16] Jesus -[3601.16 --> 3601.70] Says -[3601.70 --> 3602.48] You -[3602.48 --> 3602.78] Say -[3602.78 --> 3602.94] That -[3602.94 --> 3603.10] I'm -[3603.10 --> 3603.22] A -[3603.22 --> 3603.42] King -[3603.42 --> 3604.78] In -[3604.78 --> 3604.98] Fact -[3604.98 --> 3605.14] The -[3605.14 --> 3605.36] Reason -[3605.36 --> 3605.54] I -[3605.54 --> 3605.68] Was -[3605.68 --> 3605.98] Born -[3605.98 --> 3606.14] And -[3606.14 --> 3606.32] Came -[3606.32 --> 3606.50] Into -[3606.50 --> 3606.66] The -[3606.66 --> 3606.88] World -[3606.88 --> 3607.08] Is -[3607.08 --> 3607.24] To -[3607.24 --> 3608.02] Testify -[3608.02 --> 3608.62] To -[3608.62 --> 3608.76] The -[3608.76 --> 3609.16] Truth -[3609.16 --> 3610.42] Everyone -[3610.42 --> 3610.72] On -[3610.72 --> 3610.86] The -[3610.86 --> 3611.14] Side -[3611.14 --> 3611.28] Of -[3611.28 --> 3611.56] Truth -[3611.56 --> 3612.00] Listens -[3612.00 --> 3612.20] To -[3612.20 --> 3612.46] Me -[3612.46 --> 3614.00] And -[3614.00 --> 3614.14] Then -[3614.14 --> 3614.44] Pilate -[3614.44 --> 3614.72] Throws -[3614.72 --> 3614.92] Up -[3614.92 --> 3615.06] His -[3615.06 --> 3615.38] Hands -[3615.38 --> 3615.52] And -[3615.52 --> 3615.64] He -[3615.64 --> 3615.94] Goes -[3615.94 --> 3616.64] What -[3616.64 --> 3617.44] Is -[3617.44 --> 3618.36] Truth -[3618.36 --> 3621.36] But -[3621.36 --> 3621.82] Now -[3621.82 --> 3622.96] When -[3622.96 --> 3623.06] We -[3623.06 --> 3623.24] Pick -[3623.24 --> 3623.40] The -[3623.40 --> 3623.70] Story -[3623.70 --> 3624.04] Up -[3624.04 --> 3624.84] In -[3624.84 --> 3625.00] The -[3625.00 --> 3625.38] Next -[3625.38 --> 3626.18] Exchange -[3626.18 --> 3626.68] Having -[3626.68 --> 3627.10] Heard -[3627.10 --> 3627.64] Again -[3627.64 --> 3628.06] From -[3628.06 --> 3628.84] Jesus -[3628.84 --> 3629.38] He -[3629.38 --> 3629.98] Asks -[3629.98 --> 3630.36] Where -[3630.36 --> 3630.68] Are -[3630.68 --> 3630.98] You -[3630.98 --> 3631.88] From -[3631.88 --> 3632.18] He -[3632.18 --> 3632.74] Wonders -[3632.74 --> 3633.22] Could -[3633.22 --> 3633.92] This -[3633.92 --> 3634.54] One -[3634.54 --> 3635.10] Really -[3635.10 --> 3635.90] Be -[3635.90 --> 3636.66] From -[3636.66 --> 3637.66] God -[3637.66 --> 3639.50] See -[3639.50 --> 3639.80] Pilate -[3639.80 --> 3639.96] Is -[3639.96 --> 3640.42] Starting -[3640.42 --> 3640.68] To -[3640.68 --> 3640.88] Make -[3640.88 --> 3641.04] A -[3641.04 --> 3641.56] Choice -[3641.56 --> 3642.40] And -[3642.40 --> 3642.54] He -[3642.54 --> 3642.90] Doesn't -[3642.90 --> 3643.30] Like -[3643.30 --> 3643.60] It -[3643.60 --> 3645.14] He -[3645.14 --> 3645.34] Doesn't -[3645.34 --> 3645.52] Know -[3645.52 --> 3645.70] What -[3645.70 --> 3645.82] To -[3645.82 --> 3646.34] Conclude -[3646.34 --> 3647.84] And -[3647.84 --> 3648.10] The -[3648.10 --> 3648.72] Fascinating -[3648.72 --> 3649.04] Thing -[3649.04 --> 3649.22] The -[3649.22 --> 3649.38] Thing -[3649.38 --> 3649.52] That -[3649.52 --> 3649.72] Gets -[3649.72 --> 3649.86] Me -[3649.86 --> 3650.16] Every -[3650.16 --> 3650.62] Time -[3650.62 --> 3651.04] I -[3651.04 --> 3651.32] Read -[3651.32 --> 3651.54] This -[3651.54 --> 3651.92] Story -[3651.92 --> 3652.40] Is -[3652.40 --> 3652.54] That -[3652.54 --> 3652.88] Jesus -[3652.88 --> 3653.44] Doesn't -[3653.44 --> 3653.74] Do -[3653.74 --> 3654.16] Anything -[3654.16 --> 3655.42] He -[3655.42 --> 3655.66] Doesn't -[3655.66 --> 3655.96] Add -[3655.96 --> 3656.30] Anything -[3656.30 --> 3656.54] He -[3656.54 --> 3656.76] Doesn't -[3656.76 --> 3657.08] Argue -[3657.08 --> 3657.32] His -[3657.32 --> 3657.64] Case -[3657.64 --> 3657.82] He -[3657.82 --> 3658.04] Doesn't -[3658.04 --> 3658.24] Say -[3658.24 --> 3658.70] Look -[3658.70 --> 3658.90] Here -[3658.90 --> 3659.10] Here -[3659.10 --> 3659.30] Here -[3659.30 --> 3659.50] Here -[3659.50 --> 3659.72] Here -[3659.72 --> 3659.90] Here -[3659.90 --> 3660.18] He -[3660.18 --> 3660.40] Doesn't -[3660.40 --> 3660.58] Try -[3660.58 --> 3660.74] To -[3660.74 --> 3661.16] Convince -[3661.16 --> 3661.40] Him -[3661.40 --> 3662.92] We -[3662.92 --> 3663.14] Read -[3663.14 --> 3664.22] Again -[3664.22 --> 3664.38] In -[3664.38 --> 3664.54] Verse -[3664.54 --> 3664.78] Nine -[3664.78 --> 3664.98] Where -[3664.98 --> 3665.10] Do -[3665.10 --> 3665.20] You -[3665.20 --> 3665.40] Come -[3665.40 --> 3665.64] From -[3665.64 --> 3665.82] He -[3665.82 --> 3666.08] Asked -[3666.08 --> 3666.38] Jesus -[3666.38 --> 3666.96] But -[3666.96 --> 3667.34] Jesus -[3667.34 --> 3667.90] Gave -[3667.90 --> 3668.16] Him -[3668.16 --> 3668.58] No -[3668.58 --> 3669.66] Answer -[3669.66 --> 3672.42] Do -[3672.42 --> 3672.56] You -[3672.56 --> 3673.14] Refuse -[3673.14 --> 3673.34] To -[3673.34 --> 3673.62] Speak -[3673.62 --> 3673.82] To -[3673.82 --> 3674.06] Me -[3674.06 --> 3674.92] Pilate -[3674.92 --> 3675.40] Asked -[3675.40 --> 3677.94] But -[3677.94 --> 3678.22] Jesus -[3678.22 --> 3678.70] Knows -[3678.70 --> 3678.88] That -[3678.88 --> 3679.02] He -[3679.02 --> 3679.46] Has -[3679.46 --> 3680.60] Done -[3680.60 --> 3681.72] Enough -[3681.72 --> 3683.00] At -[3683.00 --> 3683.20] This -[3683.20 --> 3683.56] Point -[3683.56 --> 3683.72] And -[3683.72 --> 3683.86] By -[3683.86 --> 3684.06] This -[3684.06 --> 3684.28] Point -[3684.28 --> 3684.46] He -[3684.46 --> 3684.74] Has -[3684.74 --> 3685.22] Said -[3685.22 --> 3686.32] Enough -[3686.32 --> 3686.54] He -[3686.54 --> 3686.86] Has -[3686.86 --> 3687.84] Proved -[3687.84 --> 3688.68] Enough -[3688.68 --> 3689.26] And -[3689.26 --> 3689.76] Either -[3689.76 --> 3690.66] You -[3690.66 --> 3690.96] Will -[3690.96 --> 3691.40] Believe -[3691.40 --> 3691.70] Him -[3691.70 --> 3693.18] You -[3693.18 --> 3693.34] Will -[3693.34 --> 3693.66] Believe -[3693.66 --> 3693.92] In -[3693.92 --> 3694.22] Him -[3694.22 --> 3695.42] Or -[3695.42 --> 3695.58] You -[3695.58 --> 3695.94] Won't -[3695.94 --> 3697.42] The -[3697.42 --> 3697.66] Choice -[3697.66 --> 3697.80] Is -[3697.80 --> 3697.92] Up -[3697.92 --> 3698.04] To -[3698.04 --> 3698.26] You -[3698.26 --> 3700.60] And -[3700.60 --> 3700.84] That's -[3700.84 --> 3700.96] The -[3700.96 --> 3701.22] Choice -[3701.22 --> 3701.50] That's -[3701.50 --> 3701.78] Before -[3701.78 --> 3702.28] Us -[3702.28 --> 3703.28] Today -[3703.28 --> 3704.98] He -[3704.98 --> 3705.16] Has -[3705.16 --> 3705.60] Already -[3705.60 --> 3706.02] Done -[3706.02 --> 3707.44] Enough -[3707.44 --> 3707.90] He's -[3707.90 --> 3708.22] Already -[3708.22 --> 3708.64] Given -[3708.64 --> 3709.38] Enough -[3709.38 --> 3709.66] He's -[3709.66 --> 3709.98] Already -[3709.98 --> 3710.44] Said -[3710.44 --> 3711.00] Enough -[3711.00 --> 3711.28] He's -[3711.28 --> 3711.54] Already -[3711.54 --> 3712.20] Proved -[3712.20 --> 3712.72] Himself -[3712.72 --> 3713.10] Through -[3713.10 --> 3713.36] His -[3713.36 --> 3713.66] Word -[3713.66 --> 3714.14] He's -[3714.14 --> 3714.46] Already -[3714.46 --> 3715.06] Revealed -[3715.06 --> 3715.30] The -[3715.30 --> 3715.64] Truth -[3715.64 --> 3715.84] Of -[3715.84 --> 3716.02] Who -[3716.02 --> 3716.22] He -[3716.22 --> 3716.58] Is -[3716.58 --> 3717.14] Through -[3717.14 --> 3717.42] His -[3717.42 --> 3718.00] Actions -[3718.00 --> 3719.60] And -[3719.60 --> 3719.72] He -[3719.72 --> 3719.96] Has -[3719.96 --> 3720.34] Lived -[3720.34 --> 3720.66] And -[3720.66 --> 3721.10] Died -[3721.10 --> 3721.70] For -[3721.70 --> 3722.00] You -[3722.00 --> 3723.82] He -[3723.82 --> 3724.06] Took -[3724.06 --> 3724.30] On -[3724.30 --> 3724.46] The -[3724.46 --> 3724.86] Cross -[3724.86 --> 3725.10] As -[3725.10 --> 3726.04] Proof -[3726.04 --> 3726.40] Of -[3726.40 --> 3726.94] His -[3726.94 --> 3727.48] Love -[3727.48 --> 3727.64] He -[3727.64 --> 3727.80] Has -[3727.80 --> 3728.02] Come -[3728.02 --> 3728.20] To -[3728.20 --> 3728.42] Earth -[3728.42 --> 3728.64] As -[3728.64 --> 3729.10] Proof -[3729.10 --> 3729.52] Of -[3729.52 --> 3729.96] God's -[3729.96 --> 3730.34] Commitment -[3730.34 --> 3730.50] He -[3730.50 --> 3730.66] Has -[3730.66 --> 3731.34] Lived -[3731.34 --> 3731.62] As -[3731.62 --> 3732.08] Proof -[3732.08 --> 3732.30] Of -[3732.30 --> 3732.62] God's -[3732.62 --> 3733.16] Promise -[3733.16 --> 3733.62] And -[3733.62 --> 3733.76] Of -[3733.76 --> 3734.08] God's -[3734.08 --> 3734.58] Faithfulness -[3734.58 --> 3734.84] To -[3734.84 --> 3735.04] His -[3735.04 --> 3735.38] Promise -[3735.38 --> 3735.90] He -[3735.90 --> 3736.20] Has -[3736.20 --> 3736.56] Done -[3736.56 --> 3737.30] Enough -[3737.30 --> 3737.50] And -[3737.50 --> 3737.70] From -[3737.70 --> 3738.10] The -[3738.10 --> 3738.46] Vantage -[3738.46 --> 3738.78] Point -[3738.78 --> 3738.98] Of -[3738.98 --> 3739.14] Where -[3739.14 --> 3739.40] We -[3739.40 --> 3739.92] Stand -[3739.92 --> 3740.54] Now -[3740.54 --> 3741.30] Right -[3741.30 --> 3741.46] From -[3741.46 --> 3741.60] The -[3741.60 --> 3741.84] Vantage -[3741.84 --> 3742.12] Point -[3742.12 --> 3742.32] Of -[3742.32 --> 3742.60] Living -[3742.60 --> 3742.88] On -[3742.88 --> 3743.16] This -[3743.16 --> 3743.68] Side -[3743.68 --> 3743.98] Of -[3743.98 --> 3744.18] That -[3744.18 --> 3744.58] First -[3744.58 --> 3745.06] Easter -[3745.06 --> 3745.74] Sunday -[3745.74 --> 3745.98] On -[3745.98 --> 3746.24] This -[3746.24 --> 3746.60] Side -[3746.60 --> 3746.76] Of -[3746.76 --> 3746.90] The -[3746.90 --> 3747.72] Resurrection -[3747.72 --> 3748.02] We -[3748.02 --> 3748.28] Have -[3748.28 --> 3748.50] Even -[3748.50 --> 3748.90] More -[3748.90 --> 3749.32] Reason -[3749.32 --> 3749.78] To -[3749.78 --> 3750.04] Know -[3750.04 --> 3750.24] That -[3750.24 --> 3750.42] This -[3750.42 --> 3750.60] Is -[3750.60 --> 3750.88] True -[3750.88 --> 3752.62] Now -[3752.62 --> 3752.76] If -[3758.02 --> 3758.28] Empty -[3758.28 --> 3760.24] Jesus -[3760.24 --> 3760.48] Has -[3760.48 --> 3760.92] Already -[3760.92 --> 3761.22] Done -[3761.22 --> 3761.58] Enough -[3761.58 --> 3761.74] He -[3761.74 --> 3761.86] Has -[3761.86 --> 3762.16] Already -[3762.16 --> 3762.56] Said -[3762.56 --> 3762.92] Enough -[3762.92 --> 3763.36] To -[3763.36 --> 3763.66] Prove -[3763.66 --> 3763.94] Himself -[3763.94 --> 3764.16] There -[3764.16 --> 3764.24] Is -[3764.24 --> 3764.52] Nothing -[3764.52 --> 3764.88] Left -[3764.88 --> 3765.28] For -[3765.28 --> 3765.48] Him -[3765.48 --> 3765.64] To -[3765.64 --> 3765.90] Do -[3765.90 --> 3766.26] Or -[3766.26 --> 3766.40] For -[3766.40 --> 3766.54] Him -[3766.54 --> 3766.72] To -[3766.72 --> 3766.96] Say -[3766.96 --> 3767.50] Now -[3767.50 --> 3767.88] It's -[3767.88 --> 3768.30] Your -[3768.30 --> 3769.52] Turn -[3769.52 --> 3771.24] It's -[3771.24 --> 3771.42] Your -[3771.42 --> 3771.90] Choice -[3771.90 --> 3773.42] It's -[3773.42 --> 3773.58] Your -[3773.58 --> 3773.98] Move -[3773.98 --> 3776.78] It's -[3776.78 --> 3776.94] Your -[3776.94 --> 3777.32] Move -[3777.32 --> 3780.66] And -[3780.66 --> 3781.24] Pilate -[3781.24 --> 3782.56] Grows -[3782.56 --> 3783.56] Frustrated -[3783.56 --> 3784.36] Again -[3784.36 --> 3785.50] He -[3785.50 --> 3785.70] Says -[3785.70 --> 3786.00] Don't -[3786.00 --> 3786.16] You -[3786.16 --> 3786.70] Realize -[3786.70 --> 3786.86] That -[3786.86 --> 3786.96] I -[3786.96 --> 3787.12] Have -[3787.12 --> 3787.48] Power -[3787.48 --> 3787.76] Either -[3787.76 --> 3787.96] To -[3787.96 --> 3788.26] Free -[3788.26 --> 3788.52] You -[3788.52 --> 3788.72] Or -[3788.72 --> 3788.92] To -[3788.92 --> 3789.48] Crucify -[3789.48 --> 3789.82] You -[3789.82 --> 3791.52] And -[3791.52 --> 3791.80] Again -[3791.80 --> 3792.26] You -[3792.26 --> 3792.58] Maybe -[3792.58 --> 3792.90] Can't -[3792.90 --> 3793.18] Tell -[3793.18 --> 3793.38] In -[3793.38 --> 3793.50] Just -[3793.50 --> 3793.62] The -[3793.62 --> 3793.72] Way -[3793.72 --> 3793.90] It's -[3793.90 --> 3794.08] Written -[3794.08 --> 3794.26] But -[3794.26 --> 3794.52] I -[3794.52 --> 3794.82] Don't -[3794.82 --> 3795.14] Believe -[3795.14 --> 3795.44] That -[3795.44 --> 3795.66] He's -[3795.66 --> 3795.96] Being -[3795.96 --> 3796.84] Flippant -[3796.84 --> 3797.02] Or -[3797.02 --> 3797.78] Dismissive -[3797.78 --> 3797.98] Here -[3797.98 --> 3798.48] I -[3798.48 --> 3798.76] Think -[3798.76 --> 3798.94] He -[3798.94 --> 3799.56] Genuinely -[3799.56 --> 3800.04] Wishes -[3800.04 --> 3800.30] That -[3800.30 --> 3800.62] Jesus -[3800.62 --> 3800.86] Would -[3800.86 --> 3801.14] Help -[3801.14 --> 3801.50] Himself -[3801.50 --> 3802.24] I -[3802.24 --> 3802.46] Think -[3802.46 --> 3802.60] He -[3802.60 --> 3802.84] Wants -[3802.84 --> 3803.02] To -[3803.02 --> 3803.42] Know -[3803.42 --> 3804.72] Now -[3804.72 --> 3805.04] Don't -[3805.04 --> 3805.18] Get -[3805.18 --> 3805.32] Me -[3805.32 --> 3805.58] Wrong -[3805.58 --> 3805.78] By -[3805.78 --> 3805.90] The -[3805.90 --> 3806.06] End -[3806.06 --> 3806.14] Of -[3806.14 --> 3806.26] The -[3806.26 --> 3806.58] Story -[3806.58 --> 3807.20] Pilate -[3807.20 --> 3807.36] Is -[3807.36 --> 3807.90] Frustrated -[3807.90 --> 3808.62] Right -[3808.62 --> 3808.78] When -[3808.78 --> 3809.10] Jesus -[3809.10 --> 3809.66] Cross -[3809.66 --> 3809.90] Is -[3809.90 --> 3810.10] Made -[3810.10 --> 3810.28] Up -[3810.28 --> 3810.72] Pilate -[3810.72 --> 3811.00] Writes -[3811.00 --> 3811.20] A -[3811.20 --> 3811.48] Sign -[3811.48 --> 3811.68] That -[3811.68 --> 3811.98] Hangs -[3811.98 --> 3812.24] Above -[3812.24 --> 3812.48] Him -[3812.48 --> 3813.04] That -[3813.04 --> 3813.34] Sign -[3813.34 --> 3813.70] Says -[3813.70 --> 3814.00] King -[3814.00 --> 3814.16] Of -[3814.16 --> 3814.28] The -[3814.28 --> 3814.58] Jews -[3814.58 --> 3814.78] And -[3814.78 --> 3814.90] The -[3814.90 --> 3815.20] People -[3815.20 --> 3816.14] They -[3816.14 --> 3816.46] Say -[3816.46 --> 3817.20] If -[3817.20 --> 3817.34] You -[3817.34 --> 3817.54] Look -[3817.54 --> 3817.90] Over -[3817.90 --> 3819.10] In -[3819.10 --> 3819.40] Chapter -[3819.40 --> 3821.38] 19 -[3821.38 --> 3821.76] Verse -[3821.76 --> 3822.32] 21 -[3822.32 --> 3822.94] They -[3822.94 --> 3823.10] Say -[3823.10 --> 3823.40] Don't -[3823.40 --> 3823.62] Write -[3823.62 --> 3823.78] The -[3823.78 --> 3823.94] King -[3823.94 --> 3824.04] Of -[3824.04 --> 3824.16] The -[3824.16 --> 3824.60] Jews -[3824.60 --> 3825.14] But -[3825.14 --> 3825.56] Write -[3825.56 --> 3825.80] That -[3825.80 --> 3826.00] This -[3826.00 --> 3826.24] Man -[3826.24 --> 3826.88] Claimed -[3826.88 --> 3827.16] To -[3827.16 --> 3827.44] Be -[3827.44 --> 3827.94] The -[3827.94 --> 3828.10] King -[3828.10 --> 3828.20] Of -[3828.20 --> 3828.30] The -[3828.30 --> 3828.56] Jews -[3828.56 --> 3828.78] And -[3828.78 --> 3829.20] Pilate -[3829.20 --> 3829.56] He -[3829.56 --> 3829.86] Goes -[3829.86 --> 3830.88] Whatever -[3830.88 --> 3831.58] I've -[3831.58 --> 3831.84] Written -[3831.84 --> 3832.26] What -[3832.26 --> 3832.36] I -[3832.36 --> 3832.52] Have -[3832.52 --> 3832.76] Written -[3832.76 --> 3834.02] By -[3834.02 --> 3834.22] That -[3834.22 --> 3834.48] Point -[3834.48 --> 3834.86] He's -[3834.86 --> 3836.08] Frustrated -[3836.08 --> 3837.70] In -[3837.70 --> 3837.94] One -[3837.94 --> 3838.24] Version -[3840.28 --> 3842.40] Is -[3842.40 --> 3844.58] That -[3844.58 --> 3845.14] Jesus -[3845.14 --> 3847.74] Here -[3847.74 --> 3849.08] Before -[3849.08 --> 3849.30] That -[3849.30 --> 3849.64] Moment -[3849.64 --> 3850.34] Replies -[3850.34 --> 3850.54] To -[3850.54 --> 3850.94] Pilate -[3850.94 --> 3851.56] Pilate -[3851.56 --> 3851.78] Says -[3851.78 --> 3852.04] Don't -[3852.04 --> 3852.18] You -[3852.18 --> 3852.60] Realize -[3852.60 --> 3852.76] That -[3852.76 --> 3852.88] I -[3852.88 --> 3853.08] Have -[3853.08 --> 3853.42] Power -[3853.42 --> 3853.60] To -[3853.60 --> 3853.78] Either -[3853.78 --> 3854.08] Free -[3854.08 --> 3854.26] You -[3854.26 --> 3854.46] Or -[3854.46 --> 3855.00] Crucify -[3855.00 --> 3855.30] You -[3855.30 --> 3855.80] And -[3855.80 --> 3856.12] Jesus -[3856.12 --> 3856.60] Says -[3856.60 --> 3858.06] You -[3858.06 --> 3858.38] Would -[3858.38 --> 3858.64] Have -[3858.64 --> 3858.98] No -[3858.98 --> 3859.64] Power -[3859.64 --> 3860.10] Over -[3860.10 --> 3860.54] Me -[3860.54 --> 3861.32] If -[3861.32 --> 3861.46] It -[3861.46 --> 3861.66] Were -[3861.66 --> 3861.92] Not -[3861.92 --> 3862.34] Given -[3862.34 --> 3862.66] To -[3862.66 --> 3863.08] You -[3863.08 --> 3863.98] From -[3863.98 --> 3864.44] Above -[3864.44 --> 3866.22] Now -[3866.22 --> 3866.42] What's -[3866.42 --> 3866.64] Jesus -[3866.64 --> 3867.04] Saying -[3867.04 --> 3867.30] There -[3867.30 --> 3869.22] In -[3869.22 --> 3869.54] Romans -[3869.54 --> 3870.06] 13 -[3870.06 --> 3871.06] The -[3871.06 --> 3871.50] Apostle -[3871.50 --> 3871.76] Paul -[3871.76 --> 3872.10] Writes -[3872.10 --> 3872.76] He -[3872.76 --> 3873.04] Says -[3873.04 --> 3873.30] Let -[3873.30 --> 3873.92] Everyone -[3873.92 --> 3874.26] Be -[3874.26 --> 3874.86] Subject -[3874.86 --> 3875.10] To -[3875.10 --> 3875.24] The -[3875.24 --> 3875.66] Governing -[3875.66 --> 3876.48] Authorities -[3876.48 --> 3876.98] For -[3876.98 --> 3877.12] There -[3877.12 --> 3877.42] Is -[3877.42 --> 3877.78] No -[3877.78 --> 3878.52] Authority -[3878.52 --> 3879.30] Except -[3879.30 --> 3880.14] That -[3880.14 --> 3880.40] Which -[3880.40 --> 3881.38] God -[3881.38 --> 3881.64] Has -[3881.64 --> 3882.24] Established -[3882.24 --> 3883.12] The -[3883.12 --> 3883.78] Authorities -[3883.78 --> 3884.04] That -[3884.04 --> 3884.58] Exist -[3884.58 --> 3885.02] Have -[3885.02 --> 3885.18] Been -[3885.18 --> 3885.98] Established -[3885.98 --> 3886.64] By -[3886.64 --> 3887.26] God -[3887.26 --> 3889.32] Effectively -[3889.32 --> 3889.80] Jesus -[3889.80 --> 3890.36] Is -[3890.36 --> 3890.84] Saying -[3890.84 --> 3891.08] To -[3891.08 --> 3891.48] Pilate -[3891.48 --> 3892.52] Know -[3892.52 --> 3892.82] Your -[3892.82 --> 3893.28] Role -[3893.28 --> 3894.92] Any -[3894.92 --> 3895.32] Power -[3895.32 --> 3895.60] Any -[3895.60 --> 3896.14] Authority -[3896.14 --> 3896.46] That -[3896.46 --> 3896.72] You -[3896.72 --> 3897.18] Have -[3897.18 --> 3897.64] Has -[3897.64 --> 3897.84] Been -[3897.84 --> 3898.10] Given -[3898.10 --> 3898.34] To -[3898.34 --> 3898.58] You -[3898.58 --> 3898.94] And -[3898.94 --> 3899.22] Not -[3899.22 --> 3899.42] By -[3899.42 --> 3899.58] The -[3899.58 --> 3899.84] Grace -[3899.84 --> 3900.02] Of -[3900.02 --> 3900.44] Caesar -[3900.44 --> 3901.04] Back -[3901.04 --> 3901.22] In -[3901.22 --> 3901.58] Rome -[3901.58 --> 3901.98] But -[3901.98 --> 3902.32] By -[3902.32 --> 3902.48] The -[3902.48 --> 3902.88] Grace -[3902.88 --> 3903.42] Of -[3903.42 --> 3903.80] God -[3903.80 --> 3905.40] And -[3905.40 --> 3905.52] So -[3905.52 --> 3905.74] Actually -[3905.74 --> 3905.90] It -[3905.90 --> 3906.08] Starts -[3906.08 --> 3906.20] To -[3906.20 --> 3906.62] Reveal -[3906.62 --> 3906.80] An -[3906.80 --> 3906.94] Even -[3906.94 --> 3907.48] Deeper -[3907.48 --> 3907.86] Thing -[3907.86 --> 3908.14] That's -[3908.14 --> 3908.38] Going -[3908.38 --> 3908.78] On -[3908.78 --> 3909.36] Here -[3909.36 --> 3909.90] A -[3909.90 --> 3910.18] Level -[3910.18 --> 3910.42] That -[3910.42 --> 3911.12] Pilate -[3911.12 --> 3911.78] Probably -[3911.78 --> 3912.10] Can't -[3912.10 --> 3912.40] See -[3912.40 --> 3912.84] And -[3912.84 --> 3912.98] That -[3912.98 --> 3913.26] The -[3913.26 --> 3913.56] Chief -[3913.56 --> 3913.98] Priests -[3913.98 --> 3914.14] And -[3914.14 --> 3914.26] The -[3914.26 --> 3914.56] People -[3914.56 --> 3915.38] We -[3915.38 --> 3915.58] Could -[3915.58 --> 3915.82] See -[3915.82 --> 3916.06] Have -[3916.06 --> 3916.32] Missed -[3916.32 --> 3916.50] Out -[3916.50 --> 3916.64] On -[3916.64 --> 3917.08] Altogether -[3917.08 --> 3918.38] At -[3918.38 --> 3918.40] At -[3918.40 --> 3918.42] At -[3918.42 --> 3918.44] At -[3918.44 --> 3918.54] At -[3918.54 --> 3918.66] The -[3918.66 --> 3918.86] End -[3918.86 --> 3918.94] Of -[3918.94 --> 3919.04] The -[3919.04 --> 3919.38] Gospel -[3919.38 --> 3919.58] Of -[3919.58 --> 3919.98] Matthew -[3919.98 --> 3921.14] Jesus -[3921.14 --> 3921.74] Says -[3921.74 --> 3922.84] All -[3922.84 --> 3923.58] Authority -[3923.58 --> 3924.18] In -[3924.18 --> 3924.52] Heaven -[3924.52 --> 3925.18] And -[3925.18 --> 3925.30] On -[3925.30 --> 3925.56] Earth -[3925.56 --> 3925.78] Has -[3925.78 --> 3925.92] Been -[3925.92 --> 3926.12] Given -[3926.12 --> 3926.32] To -[3926.32 --> 3926.52] Me -[3926.52 --> 3927.64] In -[3927.64 --> 3928.40] Colossians -[3928.40 --> 3928.96] We -[3928.96 --> 3929.26] Read -[3929.26 --> 3929.52] This -[3929.52 --> 3929.68] We -[3929.68 --> 3929.90] Read -[3929.90 --> 3930.50] The -[3930.50 --> 3930.92] Son -[3930.92 --> 3931.30] That's -[3931.30 --> 3931.46] The -[3931.46 --> 3931.70] Same -[3931.70 --> 3932.04] Son -[3932.04 --> 3932.34] That's -[3932.34 --> 3932.66] Jesus -[3932.66 --> 3933.04] Here -[3933.04 --> 3933.30] On -[3933.30 --> 3933.60] Trial -[3933.60 --> 3933.90] Before -[3933.90 --> 3934.36] Pilate -[3934.36 --> 3934.60] The -[3934.60 --> 3935.00] Son -[3935.00 --> 3935.70] Is -[3935.70 --> 3935.90] The -[3935.90 --> 3936.34] Image -[3936.34 --> 3936.50] Of -[3936.50 --> 3936.64] The -[3936.64 --> 3937.16] Invisible -[3937.16 --> 3937.66] God -[3937.66 --> 3937.86] The -[3937.86 --> 3938.54] Firstborn -[3938.54 --> 3938.88] Over -[3938.88 --> 3939.20] All -[3939.20 --> 3939.74] Creation -[3939.74 --> 3940.60] For -[3940.60 --> 3940.80] In -[3940.80 --> 3941.04] Him -[3941.04 --> 3941.36] All -[3941.36 --> 3941.70] Things -[3941.70 --> 3941.86] Were -[3941.86 --> 3942.32] Created -[3942.32 --> 3942.56] Things -[3942.56 --> 3942.72] In -[3942.72 --> 3942.94] Heaven -[3942.94 --> 3943.20] And -[3943.20 --> 3943.32] On -[3943.32 --> 3943.54] Earth -[3943.54 --> 3944.00] Visible -[3944.00 --> 3944.20] And -[3944.20 --> 3944.60] Invisible -[3944.60 --> 3944.84] And -[3944.84 --> 3944.94] Now -[3944.94 --> 3945.04] Hear -[3945.04 --> 3945.30] This -[3945.30 --> 3946.10] Whether -[3946.10 --> 3946.92] Thrones -[3946.92 --> 3947.22] Or -[3947.22 --> 3947.78] Powers -[3947.78 --> 3948.14] Or -[3948.14 --> 3948.68] Rulers -[3948.68 --> 3949.14] Or -[3949.14 --> 3949.84] Authorities -[3949.84 --> 3950.52] All -[3950.52 --> 3950.94] Things -[3950.94 --> 3951.16] Have -[3951.16 --> 3951.34] Been -[3951.34 --> 3951.86] Created -[3951.86 --> 3952.30] Through -[3952.30 --> 3952.70] Him -[3952.70 --> 3953.58] And -[3953.58 --> 3954.02] For -[3954.02 --> 3954.36] Him -[3954.36 --> 3957.34] Pilate -[3957.34 --> 3957.56] Just -[3957.56 --> 3957.96] Doesn't -[3957.96 --> 3958.24] Know -[3958.24 --> 3958.48] Who -[3958.48 --> 3958.74] He's -[3958.74 --> 3959.12] Talking -[3959.12 --> 3959.40] To -[3959.40 --> 3959.56] He -[3959.56 --> 3959.82] Doesn't -[3959.82 --> 3960.16] Really -[3960.16 --> 3960.62] Know -[3960.62 --> 3961.28] Who -[3961.28 --> 3961.52] He's -[3961.52 --> 3961.92] Talking -[3961.92 --> 3962.22] To -[3962.22 --> 3962.92] Pilate -[3962.92 --> 3963.12] Says -[3963.12 --> 3963.44] I -[3963.44 --> 3963.66] Have -[3963.66 --> 3963.84] The -[3963.84 --> 3964.24] Power -[3966.34 --> 3967.06] Because -[3967.06 --> 3967.36] He's -[3967.36 --> 3967.76] Talking -[3967.76 --> 3968.00] To -[3968.00 --> 3968.64] Jesus -[3968.64 --> 3970.02] And -[3970.02 --> 3970.16] He's -[3970.16 --> 3970.40] Talking -[3970.40 --> 3970.58] To -[3970.58 --> 3970.72] The -[3970.72 --> 3970.90] One -[3970.90 --> 3971.14] Who -[3971.14 --> 3972.34] Created -[3972.34 --> 3972.92] That -[3972.92 --> 3973.24] Power -[3973.24 --> 3973.42] The -[3973.42 --> 3973.58] One -[3973.58 --> 3973.74] Who -[3973.74 --> 3973.88] Is -[3973.88 --> 3974.88] Rightfully -[3974.88 --> 3975.74] Owner -[3975.74 --> 3976.20] Of -[3976.20 --> 3976.56] That -[3976.56 --> 3977.22] Power -[3977.22 --> 3979.20] But -[3979.20 --> 3979.44] That's -[3979.44 --> 3979.82] Exactly -[3979.82 --> 3980.04] The -[3980.04 --> 3980.36] Point -[3980.36 --> 3982.00] Because -[3982.00 --> 3982.26] That -[3982.26 --> 3982.70] Goes -[3982.70 --> 3982.94] To -[3982.94 --> 3983.36] Show -[3983.36 --> 3983.80] Us -[3983.80 --> 3984.22] Just -[3984.22 --> 3984.58] How -[3984.58 --> 3985.18] Far -[3985.18 --> 3985.92] Jesus -[3985.92 --> 3987.00] Humiliation -[3987.00 --> 3987.34] His -[3987.34 --> 3988.98] Condescending -[3988.98 --> 3989.90] Had -[3989.90 --> 3990.14] To -[3990.14 --> 3990.46] Go -[3990.46 --> 3990.96] The -[3990.96 --> 3991.40] Power -[3991.40 --> 3991.66] The -[3991.66 --> 3992.28] Authority -[3992.28 --> 3992.86] The -[3992.86 --> 3993.24] King -[3993.24 --> 3993.54] The -[3993.54 --> 3994.24] Sovereign -[3994.24 --> 3994.98] Gives -[3994.98 --> 3995.60] Himself -[3995.60 --> 3996.74] Up -[3996.74 --> 3997.00] He -[3997.00 --> 3998.08] Empties -[3998.08 --> 3998.52] Himself -[3998.52 --> 3998.96] Of -[3998.96 --> 3999.38] All -[3999.38 --> 3999.80] Of -[3999.80 --> 4000.02] That -[4000.02 --> 4000.58] Authority -[4000.58 --> 4000.78] He -[4000.78 --> 4001.12] Empties -[4001.12 --> 4001.46] Himself -[4001.46 --> 4001.74] Of -[4001.74 --> 4002.08] All -[4002.08 --> 4002.30] But -[4002.30 --> 4002.72] Love -[4002.72 --> 4003.68] All -[4003.68 --> 4003.88] That -[4003.88 --> 4004.06] He -[4004.06 --> 4004.50] Is -[4004.50 --> 4004.98] Is -[4004.98 --> 4005.90] Subjected -[4005.90 --> 4006.38] To -[4006.38 --> 4006.56] A -[4006.56 --> 4007.08] Cross -[4007.08 --> 4008.40] To -[4008.40 --> 4008.66] A -[4008.66 --> 4009.24] Mockery -[4009.24 --> 4009.56] Of -[4009.56 --> 4010.18] Justice -[4010.18 --> 4011.16] Because -[4011.16 --> 4011.54] This -[4011.54 --> 4011.98] Jesus -[4011.98 --> 4012.36] Is -[4012.36 --> 4012.68] Going -[4012.68 --> 4013.20] After -[4013.20 --> 4013.72] A -[4013.72 --> 4014.28] Deeper -[4014.28 --> 4014.82] Level -[4014.82 --> 4015.36] Of -[4015.36 --> 4015.88] Justice -[4015.88 --> 4016.30] He's -[4016.30 --> 4017.46] Participating -[4017.46 --> 4017.62] In -[4017.62 --> 4017.84] A -[4017.84 --> 4018.28] Greater -[4018.28 --> 4019.12] Picture -[4019.12 --> 4019.62] Of -[4019.62 --> 4020.10] Reality -[4020.10 --> 4020.38] Than -[4020.38 --> 4020.54] What -[4020.54 --> 4020.72] They -[4020.72 --> 4020.90] Could -[4020.90 --> 4021.16] See -[4021.16 --> 4021.38] Right -[4021.38 --> 4021.52] In -[4021.52 --> 4021.68] Front -[4021.68 --> 4021.80] Of -[4021.80 --> 4021.92] Their -[4021.92 --> 4022.30] Faces -[4022.30 --> 4024.14] And -[4024.14 --> 4024.62] Just -[4024.62 --> 4024.86] As -[4024.86 --> 4025.56] Pilate's -[4025.56 --> 4025.98] Claim -[4025.98 --> 4026.26] To -[4026.26 --> 4026.80] Authority -[4026.80 --> 4027.20] Is -[4027.20 --> 4028.10] Minuscule -[4028.10 --> 4028.38] In -[4028.38 --> 4028.84] The -[4028.84 --> 4029.22] Face -[4029.22 --> 4029.58] Of -[4029.58 --> 4029.98] The -[4029.98 --> 4030.34] True -[4030.34 --> 4030.98] Authority -[4030.98 --> 4031.48] Standing -[4031.48 --> 4031.88] Before -[4031.88 --> 4032.18] Him -[4032.18 --> 4032.40] In -[4032.40 --> 4033.04] Jesus -[4033.04 --> 4033.54] So -[4033.54 --> 4033.96] Too -[4033.96 --> 4034.26] Is -[4034.26 --> 4034.44] The -[4034.44 --> 4034.76] Sense -[4034.76 --> 4035.00] Of -[4035.00 --> 4035.64] Justice -[4035.64 --> 4036.10] That -[4036.10 --> 4036.64] Pilate -[4036.64 --> 4036.98] Thinks -[4036.98 --> 4037.10] Is -[4037.10 --> 4037.36] Being -[4037.36 --> 4037.92] Pursued -[4037.92 --> 4039.14] Because -[4039.14 --> 4039.36] To -[4039.36 --> 4039.60] Him -[4039.60 --> 4039.82] This -[4039.82 --> 4039.96] Is -[4039.96 --> 4040.16] A -[4040.16 --> 4040.62] Local -[4040.62 --> 4041.24] Concern -[4041.24 --> 4041.66] A -[4041.66 --> 4041.82] Sort -[4041.82 --> 4041.92] Of -[4041.92 --> 4042.36] Trite -[4042.36 --> 4043.16] Upstart -[4043.16 --> 4043.38] That -[4043.38 --> 4043.70] Local -[4043.70 --> 4044.02] Leaders -[4044.02 --> 4044.42] Can't -[4044.42 --> 4044.64] Seem -[4044.64 --> 4044.78] To -[4044.78 --> 4045.20] Handle -[4045.20 --> 4045.66] But -[4045.66 --> 4046.14] Jesus -[4046.14 --> 4046.70] Knows -[4046.70 --> 4046.88] That -[4046.88 --> 4047.04] It's -[4047.04 --> 4047.38] More -[4047.38 --> 4048.16] And -[4048.16 --> 4048.34] He -[4048.34 --> 4048.70] Knows -[4048.70 --> 4048.92] What -[4048.92 --> 4049.06] Is -[4049.06 --> 4049.74] Really -[4049.74 --> 4050.10] Going -[4050.10 --> 4050.44] On -[4050.44 --> 4050.56] And -[4050.56 --> 4050.68] He -[4050.68 --> 4050.92] Knows -[4050.92 --> 4051.36] Whose -[4051.36 --> 4051.84] Will -[4051.84 --> 4052.12] Is -[4052.12 --> 4052.64] Really -[4052.64 --> 4053.24] At -[4053.24 --> 4053.50] Work -[4053.50 --> 4053.72] In -[4053.72 --> 4053.90] All -[4053.90 --> 4054.02] Of -[4054.02 --> 4054.32] This -[4054.32 --> 4055.48] And -[4055.48 --> 4055.72] That -[4055.72 --> 4056.06] Is -[4056.06 --> 4056.68] Our -[4056.68 --> 4057.40] Choice -[4057.40 --> 4058.34] This -[4058.34 --> 4058.56] Good -[4058.56 --> 4058.96] Friday -[4058.96 --> 4061.38] What -[4061.38 --> 4061.64] Is -[4061.64 --> 4061.90] At -[4061.90 --> 4062.30] Work -[4062.30 --> 4063.02] In -[4063.02 --> 4063.16] The -[4063.16 --> 4063.58] Cross -[4063.58 --> 4065.38] Is -[4065.38 --> 4065.42] Is -[4065.42 --> 4066.34] What's -[4066.34 --> 4066.70] Happening -[4066.70 --> 4067.08] Here -[4067.08 --> 4067.48] More -[4067.48 --> 4067.70] Than -[4067.92 --> 4068.18] Death -[4068.18 --> 4068.74] Of -[4068.74 --> 4068.90] A -[4068.90 --> 4069.26] Good -[4069.26 --> 4069.66] But -[4069.66 --> 4070.30] Ultimately -[4070.30 --> 4071.18] Misunderstood -[4071.18 --> 4071.54] Man -[4071.54 --> 4072.36] Or -[4072.36 --> 4073.10] Is -[4073.10 --> 4073.38] What's -[4073.38 --> 4073.60] Going -[4073.60 --> 4073.86] On -[4073.86 --> 4074.02] Here -[4074.02 --> 4074.46] Something -[4074.46 --> 4075.40] More -[4075.40 --> 4078.24] Peter -[4078.24 --> 4079.38] In -[4079.38 --> 4080.02] His -[4080.02 --> 4080.52] Sermon -[4080.52 --> 4080.80] On -[4080.80 --> 4081.50] Pentecost -[4081.50 --> 4081.84] And -[4081.84 --> 4082.74] Recorded -[4082.74 --> 4082.86] In -[4082.86 --> 4083.10] Acts -[4083.10 --> 4083.40] 2 -[4083.40 --> 4084.18] He -[4084.18 --> 4084.54] Says -[4084.54 --> 4086.84] Jesus -[4086.84 --> 4087.44] Of -[4087.44 --> 4088.30] Nazareth -[4088.30 --> 4088.60] Was -[4088.60 --> 4088.74] A -[4088.74 --> 4089.06] Man -[4089.06 --> 4089.70] Accredited -[4089.70 --> 4089.94] By -[4089.94 --> 4090.26] God -[4090.26 --> 4090.46] To -[4090.46 --> 4090.78] You -[4090.78 --> 4091.28] By -[4091.28 --> 4091.84] Miracles -[4091.84 --> 4092.38] Wonders -[4092.38 --> 4092.64] And -[4092.64 --> 4093.20] Signs -[4093.20 --> 4093.36] Which -[4093.36 --> 4093.70] God -[4093.70 --> 4094.02] Did -[4094.02 --> 4094.76] Among -[4094.76 --> 4095.06] You -[4095.06 --> 4095.36] Through -[4095.36 --> 4095.66] Him -[4095.66 --> 4095.94] As -[4095.94 --> 4096.12] You -[4096.12 --> 4096.66] Yourselves -[4096.66 --> 4096.94] Know -[4096.94 --> 4098.38] This -[4098.38 --> 4099.04] Man -[4099.04 --> 4099.30] Was -[4099.30 --> 4099.82] Handed -[4099.82 --> 4100.16] Over -[4100.16 --> 4100.42] To -[4100.42 --> 4100.72] You -[4100.72 --> 4100.98] By -[4100.98 --> 4101.64] God's -[4101.64 --> 4102.70] Deliberate -[4102.70 --> 4103.40] Plan -[4103.40 --> 4103.92] And -[4103.92 --> 4104.18] For -[4104.18 --> 4104.64] Knowledge -[4104.64 --> 4106.12] And -[4106.12 --> 4106.54] You -[4106.54 --> 4107.30] With -[4107.30 --> 4107.42] The -[4107.42 --> 4107.60] Help -[4107.60 --> 4107.82] Of -[4107.82 --> 4108.08] Wicked -[4108.08 --> 4108.44] Men -[4108.44 --> 4108.74] Put -[4108.74 --> 4108.90] Him -[4108.90 --> 4109.06] To -[4109.06 --> 4109.36] Death -[4109.36 --> 4109.58] By -[4109.58 --> 4110.08] Nailing -[4110.08 --> 4110.52] Him -[4110.52 --> 4111.18] To -[4111.18 --> 4111.32] The -[4111.32 --> 4111.78] Cross -[4111.78 --> 4113.20] Did -[4113.20 --> 4113.26] You -[4113.26 --> 4113.36] Hear -[4113.36 --> 4113.56] That -[4113.56 --> 4114.46] God -[4114.46 --> 4114.80] God -[4114.80 --> 4115.00] God's -[4115.00 --> 4115.82] Deliberate -[4115.82 --> 4116.50] Plan -[4116.50 --> 4117.38] And -[4117.38 --> 4117.64] For -[4117.64 --> 4118.14] Knowledge -[4118.14 --> 4119.98] The -[4119.98 --> 4120.50] Choice -[4120.50 --> 4121.12] Is -[4121.12 --> 4121.52] Yours -[4121.52 --> 4122.04] Is -[4122.04 --> 4122.82] Jesus -[4122.82 --> 4123.26] Just -[4123.26 --> 4123.64] Another -[4123.64 --> 4124.06] Man -[4124.06 --> 4124.30] A -[4124.30 --> 4124.72] Victim -[4124.72 --> 4124.96] Of -[4124.96 --> 4125.08] An -[4125.08 --> 4125.54] Imperial -[4125.54 --> 4126.26] Empire -[4126.26 --> 4126.56] Like -[4126.56 --> 4126.84] So -[4126.84 --> 4127.06] Many -[4127.06 --> 4127.48] Others -[4127.48 --> 4128.14] Before -[4128.14 --> 4128.42] Him -[4128.42 --> 4129.02] Or -[4129.02 --> 4129.32] Is -[4129.32 --> 4129.50] He -[4129.50 --> 4129.98] Someone -[4129.98 --> 4130.82] More -[4130.82 --> 4132.50] The -[4132.50 --> 4133.10] Implication -[4133.10 --> 4133.26] Of -[4133.26 --> 4133.40] What -[4133.40 --> 4133.68] Jesus -[4133.68 --> 4133.98] Is -[4133.98 --> 4134.32] Saying -[4134.32 --> 4134.72] And -[4134.72 --> 4134.94] Of -[4134.94 --> 4135.08] What -[4135.08 --> 4135.26] He -[4135.26 --> 4135.66] Sees -[4135.66 --> 4136.30] Clearly -[4136.30 --> 4136.88] That -[4136.88 --> 4137.40] Pilate -[4137.40 --> 4137.56] And -[4137.56 --> 4137.70] The -[4137.70 --> 4137.98] Rest -[4137.98 --> 4138.28] Are -[4138.28 --> 4138.72] Blind -[4138.72 --> 4139.08] To -[4139.08 --> 4139.68] Is -[4139.68 --> 4139.88] The -[4139.88 --> 4140.62] Reality -[4140.62 --> 4141.00] Of -[4141.00 --> 4141.20] This -[4141.20 --> 4141.78] Situation -[4141.78 --> 4142.06] The -[4142.06 --> 4142.44] Really -[4142.44 --> 4143.36] Real -[4143.36 --> 4144.12] Reality -[4144.12 --> 4144.76] Of -[4144.76 --> 4144.94] This -[4144.94 --> 4145.42] Situation -[4145.42 --> 4145.58] He -[4145.58 --> 4145.68] Says -[4145.68 --> 4145.90] You -[4145.90 --> 4146.24] Think -[4146.24 --> 4146.44] You -[4146.44 --> 4146.62] Are -[4146.62 --> 4146.76] In -[4146.76 --> 4147.18] Control -[4147.18 --> 4147.64] You -[4147.64 --> 4147.98] Think -[4147.98 --> 4148.18] You -[4148.18 --> 4148.36] Have -[4148.36 --> 4148.50] The -[4148.50 --> 4148.82] Power -[4148.82 --> 4149.02] And -[4149.02 --> 4149.14] The -[4149.14 --> 4149.62] Authority -[4149.62 --> 4149.90] But -[4149.90 --> 4150.32] This -[4150.32 --> 4151.08] Even -[4151.08 --> 4151.56] Death -[4151.56 --> 4151.78] On -[4151.78 --> 4151.92] A -[4151.92 --> 4152.42] Cross -[4152.42 --> 4153.10] This -[4153.10 --> 4153.40] Is -[4153.40 --> 4154.08] Exactly -[4154.08 --> 4154.66] God's -[4154.66 --> 4155.06] Plan -[4155.06 --> 4155.60] And -[4155.60 --> 4156.08] Purpose -[4156.08 --> 4156.54] And -[4156.54 --> 4157.06] Direction -[4157.06 --> 4158.42] You -[4158.42 --> 4158.68] May -[4158.68 --> 4159.26] Crucify -[4159.26 --> 4159.62] Me -[4159.62 --> 4160.08] But -[4160.08 --> 4160.50] God's -[4160.50 --> 4160.88] Plan -[4160.88 --> 4161.24] Is -[4161.24 --> 4161.66] Just -[4161.66 --> 4162.24] That -[4162.24 --> 4162.46] You -[4162.46 --> 4162.72] May -[4162.72 --> 4163.04] Kill -[4163.04 --> 4163.28] Me -[4163.28 --> 4163.46] But -[4163.46 --> 4163.60] That -[4163.60 --> 4163.92] Doesn't -[4163.92 --> 4164.42] Stop -[4164.42 --> 4164.60] Me -[4164.60 --> 4165.28] That's -[4165.28 --> 4165.90] Exactly -[4165.90 --> 4166.30] Why -[4166.30 --> 4166.78] I -[4166.78 --> 4166.94] Am -[4166.94 --> 4167.26] Here -[4167.26 --> 4169.24] Jesus -[4169.24 --> 4169.56] Said -[4169.56 --> 4169.72] The -[4169.72 --> 4170.12] Son Of -[4170.12 --> 4170.34] Man -[4170.34 --> 4170.64] Came -[4170.64 --> 4170.80] To -[4170.80 --> 4170.94] Give -[4170.94 --> 4171.12] His -[4171.12 --> 4171.46] Life -[4171.46 --> 4171.70] As -[4171.70 --> 4171.86] A -[4171.86 --> 4172.32] Ransom -[4172.32 --> 4173.08] For -[4173.08 --> 4173.38] Many -[4173.38 --> 4175.38] All -[4175.38 --> 4175.74] Throughout -[4175.74 --> 4175.96] The -[4175.96 --> 4176.32] Gospel -[4176.32 --> 4176.96] Stories -[4176.96 --> 4177.66] Jesus -[4177.66 --> 4177.98] Has -[4177.98 --> 4178.18] Been -[4178.18 --> 4178.60] Telling -[4178.60 --> 4178.82] His -[4178.82 --> 4179.44] Disciples -[4179.44 --> 4179.62] That -[4179.62 --> 4179.74] He -[4179.74 --> 4179.92] Would -[4179.92 --> 4180.30] Die -[4180.30 --> 4180.46] That -[4180.46 --> 4180.56] He -[4180.56 --> 4180.68] Would -[4180.68 --> 4180.80] Be -[4180.80 --> 4181.26] Killed -[4181.26 --> 4181.72] That -[4181.72 --> 4181.96] His -[4181.96 --> 4182.38] Death -[4182.38 --> 4182.74] Would -[4182.74 --> 4183.16] Bring -[4183.16 --> 4184.20] Life -[4184.20 --> 4187.68] Hebrews -[4187.68 --> 4188.38] 2 -[4188.38 --> 4189.20] Fills -[4189.20 --> 4189.44] This -[4189.44 --> 4189.64] In -[4189.64 --> 4189.82] For -[4189.82 --> 4190.10] Us -[4190.10 --> 4191.22] We -[4191.22 --> 4191.46] Read -[4191.46 --> 4192.62] For -[4192.62 --> 4192.92] This -[4192.92 --> 4193.36] Reason -[4193.36 --> 4193.68] He -[4193.68 --> 4194.00] Had -[4194.00 --> 4194.18] To -[4194.18 --> 4194.38] Be -[4194.38 --> 4194.66] Made -[4194.66 --> 4194.96] Like -[4194.96 --> 4195.30] Them -[4195.30 --> 4195.66] That -[4195.66 --> 4195.80] Is -[4195.80 --> 4196.02] Like -[4196.02 --> 4196.18] His -[4196.18 --> 4196.52] Brothers -[4196.52 --> 4196.88] Like -[4196.88 --> 4197.36] Us -[4197.36 --> 4198.08] Fully -[4198.08 --> 4198.46] Human -[4198.46 --> 4198.90] In -[4198.90 --> 4199.26] Every -[4199.26 --> 4199.58] Way -[4199.58 --> 4199.80] In -[4199.80 --> 4200.10] Order -[4200.10 --> 4200.36] That -[4200.36 --> 4200.52] He -[4200.52 --> 4200.76] Might -[4200.76 --> 4201.28] Become -[4201.28 --> 4201.58] A -[4201.58 --> 4202.14] Merciful -[4202.14 --> 4202.42] And -[4202.42 --> 4202.96] Faithful -[4202.96 --> 4203.24] High -[4203.24 --> 4203.56] Priest -[4203.56 --> 4203.86] In -[4203.86 --> 4204.18] Service -[4204.18 --> 4204.38] To -[4204.38 --> 4204.64] God -[4204.64 --> 4205.20] And -[4205.20 --> 4205.38] That -[4205.38 --> 4205.62] He -[4205.62 --> 4205.96] Might -[4205.96 --> 4206.30] Make -[4206.30 --> 4207.14] Atonement -[4207.14 --> 4208.16] For -[4208.16 --> 4208.36] The -[4208.36 --> 4208.80] Sins -[4208.80 --> 4209.58] Of -[4209.58 --> 4209.68] The -[4209.68 --> 4210.06] People -[4210.06 --> 4214.12] Atonement -[4214.12 --> 4214.16] Atonement -[4214.16 --> 4214.18] Atonement -[4214.18 --> 4215.08] Is -[4215.08 --> 4215.22] The -[4215.22 --> 4215.54] Word -[4215.54 --> 4215.80] The -[4215.80 --> 4216.16] Bible -[4216.16 --> 4216.68] Uses -[4216.68 --> 4216.90] To -[4216.90 --> 4217.20] Talk -[4217.20 --> 4217.54] About -[4217.54 --> 4217.96] How -[4217.96 --> 4218.30] For -[4218.30 --> 4218.36] For -[4218.36 --> 4219.00] For -[4219.00 --> 4219.74] God -[4219.74 --> 4220.28] Is -[4220.28 --> 4220.88] Possible -[4220.88 --> 4222.20] Atonement -[4222.20 --> 4222.42] Is -[4222.42 --> 4222.56] The -[4222.56 --> 4222.76] Word -[4222.76 --> 4222.90] That -[4222.90 --> 4223.02] The -[4223.02 --> 4223.26] Bible -[4223.26 --> 4223.70] Uses -[4223.70 --> 4223.94] To -[4223.94 --> 4224.24] Talk -[4224.24 --> 4224.66] About -[4224.66 --> 4225.44] Someone -[4225.44 --> 4225.90] Or -[4225.90 --> 4226.32] Something -[4226.32 --> 4227.28] Bearing -[4227.28 --> 4227.52] The -[4227.52 --> 4227.94] Curse -[4227.94 --> 4228.18] The -[4228.18 --> 4229.12] Punishment -[4229.12 --> 4229.68] For -[4229.68 --> 4230.08] Sin -[4230.08 --> 4230.34] So -[4230.34 --> 4230.52] That -[4230.52 --> 4231.56] Reconciliation -[4231.56 --> 4232.96] Restoration -[4232.96 --> 4233.42] Back -[4233.42 --> 4233.64] To -[4233.64 --> 4234.08] God -[4234.08 --> 4234.54] Can -[4234.54 --> 4235.00] Happen -[4235.00 --> 4235.76] Atonement -[4235.76 --> 4236.10] Is -[4236.10 --> 4236.32] What -[4236.32 --> 4236.70] Brings -[4236.70 --> 4237.08] People -[4237.08 --> 4237.50] Back -[4237.50 --> 4238.04] To -[4238.04 --> 4238.44] God -[4238.44 --> 4238.70] And -[4238.70 --> 4239.22] Jesus -[4239.22 --> 4239.66] We -[4239.66 --> 4240.02] Read -[4240.02 --> 4240.24] Is -[4240.24 --> 4240.46] The -[4240.46 --> 4241.46] Sacrifice -[4241.46 --> 4242.52] Of -[4242.52 --> 4243.48] Atonement -[4243.48 --> 4244.10] His -[4244.10 --> 4245.10] Sacrifice -[4245.10 --> 4245.58] Is -[4245.58 --> 4246.62] Required -[4246.62 --> 4247.04] For -[4247.04 --> 4247.68] Your -[4247.68 --> 4248.88] Salvation -[4248.88 --> 4250.42] Now -[4250.42 --> 4250.50] I -[4250.50 --> 4250.64] Know -[4250.64 --> 4250.86] That -[4250.86 --> 4252.60] Often -[4252.60 --> 4252.92] Times -[4252.92 --> 4253.28] Especially -[4253.28 --> 4253.46] When -[4253.46 --> 4253.56] I'm -[4253.56 --> 4253.80] Talking -[4253.80 --> 4254.14] To -[4254.14 --> 4255.96] New -[4255.96 --> 4256.44] Christians -[4256.44 --> 4256.68] Or -[4256.68 --> 4257.04] Young -[4257.04 --> 4257.52] Christians -[4257.52 --> 4257.74] Or -[4257.74 --> 4258.02] People -[4258.02 --> 4258.18] Who -[4258.18 --> 4258.28] Are -[4258.28 --> 4258.48] Not -[4258.48 --> 4258.72] Yet -[4258.72 --> 4259.46] Believers -[4259.46 --> 4259.68] They -[4259.68 --> 4259.90] Ask -[4259.90 --> 4260.06] The -[4260.06 --> 4260.42] Question -[4260.42 --> 4261.30] Why -[4261.30 --> 4262.22] Why -[4262.22 --> 4262.40] Did -[4262.40 --> 4262.52] He -[4262.52 --> 4262.72] Have -[4262.72 --> 4262.88] To -[4262.88 --> 4263.14] Die -[4263.14 --> 4263.48] Couldn't -[4263.48 --> 4263.74] God -[4263.74 --> 4263.94] Have -[4263.94 --> 4264.16] Done -[4264.16 --> 4264.32] It -[4264.32 --> 4265.22] Differently -[4265.22 --> 4267.16] The -[4267.16 --> 4267.48] Short -[4267.48 --> 4267.76] Answer -[4267.76 --> 4267.94] To -[4267.94 --> 4268.10] That -[4268.10 --> 4268.48] Question -[4268.48 --> 4268.82] Is -[4268.82 --> 4269.30] He -[4269.30 --> 4269.50] Had -[4269.50 --> 4269.66] To -[4269.66 --> 4270.02] Die -[4270.02 --> 4270.36] As -[4270.36 --> 4270.76] Romans -[4270.76 --> 4271.20] 6 -[4271.20 --> 4271.54] Says -[4271.54 --> 4271.96] For -[4271.96 --> 4272.34] The -[4272.34 --> 4272.78] Wages -[4272.78 --> 4273.14] Of -[4273.14 --> 4273.64] Sin -[4273.64 --> 4274.76] Is -[4274.76 --> 4275.14] Death -[4275.14 --> 4276.74] Right -[4276.74 --> 4277.24] Sin -[4277.24 --> 4278.08] Brings -[4278.08 --> 4278.72] Death -[4278.72 --> 4279.76] Sin -[4279.76 --> 4280.08] Will -[4280.08 --> 4280.68] Always -[4280.68 --> 4281.12] Lead -[4281.12 --> 4281.62] To -[4281.62 --> 4282.02] Death -[4282.02 --> 4283.84] And -[4283.84 --> 4283.94] So -[4283.94 --> 4284.10] Then -[4284.10 --> 4284.28] You -[4284.28 --> 4284.44] Might -[4284.44 --> 4284.68] Ask -[4284.68 --> 4284.88] The -[4284.88 --> 4285.20] Next -[4285.20 --> 4285.60] Question -[4285.60 --> 4286.12] Well -[4286.12 --> 4287.18] Why -[4287.18 --> 4287.58] Are -[4287.58 --> 4287.76] The -[4287.76 --> 4288.10] Wages -[4288.10 --> 4288.42] Of -[4288.42 --> 4288.78] Sin -[4288.78 --> 4289.60] Death -[4289.60 --> 4291.20] And -[4291.20 --> 4291.42] That's -[4291.42 --> 4291.70] Because -[4291.70 --> 4291.96] The -[4291.96 --> 4292.54] Reality -[4292.54 --> 4292.92] Of -[4292.92 --> 4293.42] Sin -[4293.42 --> 4294.16] Is -[4294.16 --> 4294.34] That -[4294.34 --> 4294.48] It -[4294.48 --> 4295.28] Separates -[4295.28 --> 4295.50] Us -[4295.50 --> 4295.72] From -[4295.72 --> 4296.10] God -[4296.10 --> 4297.42] Sin -[4297.42 --> 4298.10] Breaks -[4298.10 --> 4298.50] Our -[4298.50 --> 4299.42] Relationship -[4299.42 --> 4299.62] To -[4299.62 --> 4300.02] God -[4300.02 --> 4300.46] And -[4300.46 --> 4301.30] Relationship -[4301.30 --> 4301.50] To -[4301.50 --> 4302.04] God -[4302.04 --> 4302.50] In -[4302.50 --> 4302.74] Its -[4302.74 --> 4304.16] Original -[4304.16 --> 4304.86] Creational -[4304.86 --> 4305.30] Sense -[4305.30 --> 4305.48] Of -[4305.48 --> 4305.68] Being -[4305.68 --> 4306.30] Created -[4306.30 --> 4306.50] In -[4306.50 --> 4306.62] The -[4306.62 --> 4306.90] Image -[4306.90 --> 4307.06] And -[4307.06 --> 4307.46] Likeness -[4307.46 --> 4307.64] Of -[4307.64 --> 4307.90] God -[4307.90 --> 4308.64] Relationship -[4308.64 --> 4308.78] To -[4308.78 --> 4309.20] God -[4309.20 --> 4309.84] Is -[4309.84 --> 4310.10] The -[4310.10 --> 4310.62] Source -[4310.62 --> 4310.94] Of -[4310.94 --> 4311.48] Life -[4311.48 --> 4312.70] Right -[4312.70 --> 4313.14] God -[4313.14 --> 4313.58] Is -[4313.58 --> 4314.40] Life -[4314.40 --> 4315.02] And -[4315.02 --> 4315.18] So -[4315.18 --> 4315.36] When -[4315.36 --> 4315.52] We -[4315.52 --> 4315.78] Lose -[4315.78 --> 4316.64] Relationship -[4316.64 --> 4316.84] With -[4316.84 --> 4317.16] Him -[4317.16 --> 4318.98] Death -[4318.98 --> 4319.96] Is -[4319.96 --> 4320.14] The -[4320.14 --> 4320.56] Result -[4320.56 --> 4323.16] Because -[4323.16 --> 4323.32] The -[4323.32 --> 4323.60] Wages -[4323.60 --> 4323.82] Of -[4323.82 --> 4324.02] Sin -[4324.02 --> 4324.30] Is -[4324.30 --> 4324.62] Death -[4324.62 --> 4324.82] In -[4324.82 --> 4324.98] Order -[4324.98 --> 4325.20] For -[4325.20 --> 4325.94] Relationship -[4325.94 --> 4326.12] To -[4326.12 --> 4326.48] God -[4326.48 --> 4326.70] To -[4326.70 --> 4326.96] Be -[4326.96 --> 4327.96] Restored -[4327.96 --> 4328.50] Death -[4328.50 --> 4329.64] Was -[4329.64 --> 4330.56] The -[4330.56 --> 4331.06] Price -[4331.06 --> 4332.18] And -[4332.18 --> 4332.60] Jesus -[4332.60 --> 4333.72] Paid -[4333.72 --> 4333.92] It -[4333.92 --> 4334.90] All -[4334.90 --> 4336.56] Right -[4336.56 --> 4336.82] He -[4336.82 --> 4337.12] Who -[4337.12 --> 4337.44] Has -[4337.44 --> 4337.70] All -[4337.70 --> 4337.86] The -[4337.86 --> 4338.28] Power -[4338.28 --> 4338.78] And -[4338.78 --> 4339.26] Authority -[4339.26 --> 4339.86] Humbles -[4339.86 --> 4340.30] Himself -[4340.30 --> 4340.88] In -[4340.88 --> 4341.16] Front -[4341.16 --> 4341.38] Of -[4341.38 --> 4341.52] A -[4341.52 --> 4342.12] Perceived -[4342.12 --> 4342.60] Power -[4342.60 --> 4343.10] And -[4343.10 --> 4343.58] Authority -[4343.58 --> 4344.28] When -[4344.28 --> 4344.56] It -[4344.56 --> 4344.86] Looks -[4344.86 --> 4345.26] Like -[4345.26 --> 4345.66] Evil -[4345.66 --> 4345.92] And -[4345.92 --> 4346.22] Sin -[4346.22 --> 4346.44] Is -[4346.44 --> 4346.74] About -[4346.74 --> 4347.02] To -[4347.02 --> 4347.36] Win -[4347.36 --> 4347.58] And -[4347.58 --> 4348.20] Accomplish -[4348.20 --> 4348.62] The -[4348.62 --> 4349.12] Greatest -[4349.12 --> 4349.46] Evil -[4349.46 --> 4349.66] That -[4349.66 --> 4349.92] Would -[4349.92 --> 4350.00] Be -[4350.00 --> 4350.16] The -[4350.16 --> 4350.44] Death -[4350.44 --> 4350.64] Of -[4350.64 --> 4350.98] God -[4350.98 --> 4351.38] Right -[4351.38 --> 4351.90] Even -[4351.90 --> 4352.44] Then -[4352.44 --> 4352.98] God -[4352.98 --> 4353.34] Has -[4353.34 --> 4353.54] A -[4353.54 --> 4354.18] Purpose -[4354.18 --> 4354.72] And -[4354.72 --> 4354.86] A -[4354.86 --> 4355.14] Plan -[4355.14 --> 4355.36] There -[4355.36 --> 4355.48] Is -[4355.48 --> 4355.66] A -[4355.66 --> 4356.08] Deeper -[4356.08 --> 4356.58] Movement -[4356.58 --> 4356.84] At -[4356.84 --> 4357.06] Work -[4357.06 --> 4357.24] There -[4357.24 --> 4357.38] Is -[4357.38 --> 4357.60] A -[4357.60 --> 4358.22] Higher -[4358.22 --> 4358.80] Plan -[4358.80 --> 4359.74] Right -[4359.74 --> 4359.90] Through -[4359.90 --> 4360.10] The -[4360.10 --> 4360.86] Travesty -[4360.86 --> 4361.08] Of -[4361.08 --> 4361.74] Justice -[4361.74 --> 4362.32] That -[4362.32 --> 4362.48] Is -[4362.48 --> 4362.72] This -[4362.72 --> 4363.14] Innocent -[4363.14 --> 4363.40] Man -[4363.40 --> 4363.74] Dying -[4363.74 --> 4363.88] On -[4363.88 --> 4364.00] A -[4364.00 --> 4364.30] Cross -[4364.30 --> 4364.98] Eternal -[4364.98 --> 4365.56] Justice -[4365.56 --> 4366.20] Is -[4366.20 --> 4366.46] Being -[4366.46 --> 4367.26] Satisfied -[4367.26 --> 4368.44] And -[4368.44 --> 4368.90] This -[4368.90 --> 4370.12] Is -[4370.12 --> 4370.52] Jesus -[4370.52 --> 4371.14] Choice -[4371.14 --> 4373.02] And -[4373.02 --> 4373.24] Out -[4373.24 --> 4373.38] Of -[4373.38 --> 4373.68] His -[4373.68 --> 4374.14] Great -[4374.14 --> 4374.72] Love -[4374.72 --> 4375.72] For -[4375.72 --> 4376.20] Us -[4376.20 --> 4377.02] He -[4377.02 --> 4377.26] Took -[4377.26 --> 4377.42] Up -[4377.42 --> 4377.56] The -[4377.56 --> 4378.00] Cross -[4378.00 --> 4379.24] Out -[4379.24 --> 4379.36] Of -[4379.36 --> 4379.62] His -[4379.62 --> 4380.00] Love -[4380.00 --> 4380.28] For -[4380.28 --> 4380.70] You -[4380.70 --> 4381.48] He -[4381.48 --> 4382.34] Endured -[4382.34 --> 4383.10] The -[4383.10 --> 4383.62] Cross -[4383.62 --> 4386.82] The -[4386.82 --> 4387.16] Truth -[4387.16 --> 4388.98] Of -[4388.98 --> 4389.12] The -[4389.12 --> 4389.58] Gospel -[4389.58 --> 4390.34] The -[4390.34 --> 4390.62] Truth -[4390.62 --> 4391.04] Of -[4391.04 --> 4391.76] Good -[4391.76 --> 4392.26] Friday -[4392.26 --> 4394.20] Is -[4394.20 --> 4394.38] That -[4394.38 --> 4394.74] You -[4394.74 --> 4395.88] And -[4395.88 --> 4396.24] I -[4396.24 --> 4397.26] Are -[4397.26 --> 4397.56] More -[4397.56 --> 4398.16] Sinful -[4398.16 --> 4398.90] Than -[4398.90 --> 4399.00] We -[4399.00 --> 4399.14] Could -[4399.14 --> 4399.38] Ever -[4399.38 --> 4399.80] Admit -[4399.80 --> 4401.32] And -[4401.32 --> 4401.70] Yet -[4401.70 --> 4402.88] And -[4402.88 --> 4403.12] Yet -[4403.12 --> 4403.38] You -[4403.38 --> 4403.62] Are -[4403.62 --> 4404.02] More -[4404.02 --> 4405.06] Loved -[4405.06 --> 4405.46] Than -[4405.46 --> 4405.56] You -[4405.56 --> 4405.70] Could -[4405.70 --> 4406.02] Ever -[4406.02 --> 4406.70] Imagine -[4406.70 --> 4407.64] Possible -[4407.64 --> 4409.20] And -[4409.20 --> 4409.48] Out -[4409.48 --> 4409.64] Of -[4409.64 --> 4409.90] That -[4409.90 --> 4410.34] Love -[4410.34 --> 4410.72] Jesus -[4410.72 --> 4411.28] Came -[4411.28 --> 4411.50] And -[4411.50 --> 4411.80] Lived -[4411.80 --> 4412.00] The -[4412.00 --> 4412.32] Life -[4412.32 --> 4412.74] That -[4412.74 --> 4412.92] You -[4412.92 --> 4413.18] Should -[4413.18 --> 4413.34] Have -[4413.34 --> 4413.66] Lived -[4413.66 --> 4413.92] Out -[4413.92 --> 4414.04] Of -[4414.04 --> 4414.22] That -[4414.22 --> 4414.54] Love -[4414.54 --> 4414.88] Jesus -[4414.88 --> 4415.32] Came -[4415.32 --> 4415.52] And -[4415.52 --> 4416.00] Died -[4416.00 --> 4416.66] Death -[4416.66 --> 4416.88] On -[4416.88 --> 4417.02] The -[4417.02 --> 4417.36] Cross -[4417.36 --> 4417.54] As -[4417.54 --> 4417.74] A -[4417.74 --> 4418.24] Punishment -[4418.24 --> 4418.74] For -[4418.74 --> 4418.94] Your -[4418.94 --> 4419.24] Sin -[4419.24 --> 4419.38] As -[4419.38 --> 4419.52] A -[4419.52 --> 4419.92] Punishment -[4419.92 --> 4420.36] For -[4420.36 --> 4420.60] My -[4420.60 --> 4420.94] Sin -[4420.94 --> 4421.58] Out -[4421.58 --> 4421.76] Of -[4421.76 --> 4422.00] That -[4422.00 --> 4422.34] Love -[4422.34 --> 4422.56] The -[4422.56 --> 4423.16] Wrath -[4423.16 --> 4423.40] Of -[4423.40 --> 4423.78] God -[4423.78 --> 4424.02] For -[4424.02 --> 4424.48] Sin -[4424.48 --> 4424.98] Is -[4424.98 --> 4425.82] Satisfied -[4425.82 --> 4426.50] That -[4426.50 --> 4426.96] Is -[4426.96 --> 4427.38] Jesus -[4427.38 --> 4428.28] Choice -[4428.28 --> 4429.40] Willingly -[4429.40 --> 4431.66] He -[4431.66 --> 4431.84] Went -[4431.84 --> 4431.96] To -[4431.96 --> 4432.10] The -[4432.10 --> 4432.54] Cross -[4432.54 --> 4434.00] By -[4434.00 --> 4434.56] Grace -[4434.56 --> 4435.90] You -[4435.90 --> 4436.62] Are -[4436.62 --> 4437.10] Jesus -[4437.10 --> 4438.36] Choice -[4438.36 --> 4444.50] That's -[4444.50 --> 4445.90] The last -[4445.90 --> 4446.24] Choice -[4446.24 --> 4446.68] That I want -[4446.68 --> 4446.90] To end -[4446.90 --> 4447.18] With -[4447.18 --> 4450.00] Your choice -[4450.00 --> 4451.62] This -[4451.62 --> 4451.86] Good -[4451.86 --> 4452.28] Friday -[4452.28 --> 4452.84] The -[4452.84 --> 4453.20] Choice -[4453.20 --> 4454.22] Is -[4454.22 --> 4454.50] Yours -[4454.50 --> 4454.82] Will -[4454.82 --> 4455.08] You -[4455.08 --> 4455.48] See -[4455.48 --> 4455.96] Jesus -[4455.96 --> 4456.40] As -[4456.40 --> 4456.80] Just -[4456.80 --> 4457.54] Another -[4457.54 --> 4457.98] Man -[4457.98 --> 4458.50] Made -[4458.50 --> 4458.92] Great -[4458.92 --> 4459.44] Perhaps -[4459.44 --> 4459.74] But -[4459.74 --> 4460.26] By -[4460.26 --> 4460.88] History -[4460.88 --> 4461.62] Or -[4461.62 --> 4462.06] Will -[4462.06 --> 4462.40] You -[4462.40 --> 4462.86] See -[4462.86 --> 4463.58] Jesus -[4463.58 --> 4464.30] As -[4464.30 --> 4464.60] Your -[4464.60 --> 4465.52] Savior -[4465.52 --> 4466.98] As -[4466.98 --> 4467.14] The -[4467.14 --> 4467.60] Atoning -[4467.60 --> 4468.96] Sacrifice -[4468.96 --> 4470.64] And -[4470.64 --> 4471.22] Maybe -[4471.22 --> 4471.86] Maybe -[4471.86 --> 4472.18] By -[4472.18 --> 4472.58] Grace -[4472.58 --> 4473.08] You -[4473.08 --> 4473.52] Already -[4473.52 --> 4473.82] Know -[4473.82 --> 4474.16] Jesus -[4474.16 --> 4474.50] As -[4474.50 --> 4474.66] Your -[4474.66 --> 4474.98] Savior -[4474.98 --> 4476.24] And -[4476.24 --> 4476.38] So -[4476.38 --> 4476.68] Ask -[4476.68 --> 4476.94] You -[4476.94 --> 4477.24] This -[4477.24 --> 4477.50] Good -[4477.50 --> 4477.96] Friday -[4477.96 --> 4478.80] Will -[4478.80 --> 4478.96] You -[4478.96 --> 4479.18] Make -[4479.18 --> 4479.36] Him -[4479.36 --> 4479.52] Your -[4479.52 --> 4479.82] King -[4479.82 --> 4482.12] Jesus -[4482.12 --> 4482.80] Says -[4482.80 --> 4483.02] In -[4483.02 --> 4483.22] Luke -[4483.22 --> 4483.54] 9 -[4483.54 --> 4484.52] Whoever -[4484.52 --> 4484.92] Wants -[4484.92 --> 4485.08] To -[4485.08 --> 4485.26] Be -[4485.26 --> 4485.50] My -[4485.50 --> 4486.06] Disciple -[4486.06 --> 4486.64] Must -[4486.64 --> 4487.04] Deny -[4487.04 --> 4487.68] Themselves -[4487.68 --> 4488.02] Take -[4488.02 --> 4488.18] Up -[4488.18 --> 4488.36] Their -[4488.36 --> 4488.72] Cross -[4488.72 --> 4489.12] Daily -[4489.12 --> 4489.36] And -[4489.36 --> 4489.66] Follow -[4489.66 --> 4489.92] Me -[4489.92 --> 4490.66] For -[4490.66 --> 4490.92] Whoever -[4490.92 --> 4491.18] Wants -[4491.18 --> 4491.36] To -[4491.36 --> 4491.70] Save -[4491.70 --> 4491.92] Their -[4491.92 --> 4492.26] Life -[4492.26 --> 4492.44] Will -[4492.44 --> 4492.74] Lose -[4492.74 --> 4492.88] It -[4492.88 --> 4493.04] But -[4493.04 --> 4493.26] Whoever -[4493.26 --> 4493.74] Loses -[4493.74 --> 4494.14] Their -[4494.14 --> 4494.48] Life -[4494.48 --> 4494.72] For -[4494.72 --> 4495.02] Me -[4495.02 --> 4495.68] Will -[4495.68 --> 4495.96] Save -[4495.96 --> 4496.16] It -[4496.16 --> 4498.04] The -[4498.04 --> 4498.32] Life -[4498.32 --> 4498.46] Of -[4498.46 --> 4498.58] A -[4498.58 --> 4499.04] Disciple -[4499.04 --> 4499.22] Of -[4499.22 --> 4499.52] Jesus -[4499.52 --> 4499.90] Will -[4499.90 --> 4500.24] Not -[4500.24 --> 4500.50] Be -[4500.50 --> 4500.96] Easy -[4500.96 --> 4501.40] Taking -[4501.40 --> 4501.76] Up -[4501.76 --> 4501.98] Your -[4501.98 --> 4502.40] Cross -[4502.40 --> 4502.68] Never -[4502.68 --> 4503.06] Is -[4503.06 --> 4503.24] But -[4503.24 --> 4503.72] The -[4503.72 --> 4504.44] Cruciform -[4504.44 --> 4505.02] Life -[4505.02 --> 4505.24] The -[4505.24 --> 4506.18] Cross -[4506.18 --> 4507.02] Informed -[4507.02 --> 4507.84] Life -[4507.84 --> 4508.42] Is -[4509.82 --> 4510.32] To -[4510.32 --> 4514.12] The -[4514.12 --> 4514.50] Leaders -[4514.50 --> 4515.92] And -[4515.92 --> 4516.06] The -[4516.06 --> 4516.50] People -[4516.50 --> 4517.02] Made -[4517.02 --> 4517.26] Their -[4517.26 --> 4517.76] Choice -[4517.76 --> 4518.94] They -[4518.94 --> 4519.48] Rejected -[4519.48 --> 4519.90] Jesus -[4519.90 --> 4521.72] Pilate -[4521.72 --> 4522.10] Made -[4522.10 --> 4522.54] His -[4522.54 --> 4523.34] Choice -[4523.34 --> 4523.70] He -[4523.70 --> 4524.04] Didn't -[4524.04 --> 4524.56] Believe -[4524.56 --> 4525.54] Jesus -[4525.54 --> 4526.80] Jesus -[4526.80 --> 4527.42] Chose -[4527.42 --> 4527.68] The -[4527.68 --> 4528.20] Cross -[4528.20 --> 4528.96] Willingly -[4528.96 --> 4529.56] Perfectly -[4529.56 --> 4530.32] Lovingly -[4530.32 --> 4530.90] By -[4530.90 --> 4531.44] Grace -[4531.44 --> 4531.80] If -[4531.80 --> 4531.98] You -[4531.98 --> 4532.44] Believe -[4532.44 --> 4532.96] Jesus -[4532.96 --> 4533.76] Chooses -[4533.76 --> 4534.66] Us -[4534.66 --> 4536.48] And -[4536.48 --> 4536.72] Now -[4536.72 --> 4536.98] The -[4536.98 --> 4537.34] Choice -[4537.34 --> 4537.66] Is -[4537.66 --> 4538.06] Yours -[4538.06 --> 4539.34] Will -[4539.34 --> 4539.50] You -[4539.50 --> 4540.04] Believe -[4540.04 --> 4540.98] Or -[4540.98 --> 4541.12] Will -[4541.12 --> 4541.28] You -[4541.28 --> 4541.78] Reject -[4541.78 --> 4542.68] Will -[4542.68 --> 4543.00] Jesus -[4543.00 --> 4543.26] Be -[4543.26 --> 4543.54] Just -[4543.54 --> 4543.80] Another -[4543.80 --> 4544.10] Man -[4544.10 --> 4544.26] To -[4544.26 --> 4544.44] You -[4544.44 --> 4544.68] Or -[4544.68 --> 4544.92] Will -[4544.92 --> 4545.12] He -[4545.12 --> 4545.36] Be -[4545.36 --> 4545.94] Savior -[4545.94 --> 4547.14] And -[4547.14 --> 4547.46] King -[4547.46 --> 4551.44] And -[4551.44 --> 4551.54] If -[4551.54 --> 4551.66] You -[4551.66 --> 4551.80] Are -[4551.80 --> 4552.40] Wondering -[4552.40 --> 4553.12] Or -[4553.12 --> 4553.46] Looking -[4553.46 --> 4554.38] Or -[4554.38 --> 4555.04] Wanting -[4555.04 --> 4555.40] For -[4555.40 --> 4556.04] More -[4556.04 --> 4556.60] Evidence -[4556.60 --> 4556.82] To -[4556.82 --> 4557.16] See -[4557.16 --> 4557.52] Whether -[4557.52 --> 4557.80] Or -[4557.80 --> 4558.08] Not -[4558.08 --> 4558.34] This -[4558.34 --> 4558.72] Jesus -[4558.72 --> 4559.24] Is -[4559.24 --> 4559.94] Just -[4559.94 --> 4560.28] Another -[4560.28 --> 4560.68] Man -[4560.68 --> 4560.96] Or -[4560.96 --> 4561.44] Someone -[4561.44 --> 4562.30] Greater -[4562.30 --> 4562.62] I -[4562.62 --> 4562.76] Want -[4562.76 --> 4562.88] To -[4562.88 --> 4563.24] Invite -[4563.24 --> 4563.50] You -[4563.50 --> 4564.86] Come -[4564.86 --> 4565.22] Back -[4565.22 --> 4565.68] On -[4565.68 --> 4566.06] Sunday -[4566.06 --> 4567.52] And -[4567.52 --> 4567.72] Let's -[4567.72 --> 4567.88] Look -[4567.88 --> 4567.98] At -[4567.98 --> 4568.12] That -[4568.12 --> 4568.38] Empty -[4568.38 --> 4568.80] Tomb -[4568.80 --> 4569.58] Together -[4569.58 --> 4571.16] Or -[4571.16 --> 4571.26] If -[4571.26 --> 4571.34] You -[4571.34 --> 4571.58] Know -[4571.58 --> 4571.94] Someone -[4571.94 --> 4572.14] Who -[4572.14 --> 4572.34] Is -[4572.34 --> 4572.76] Wondering -[4572.76 --> 4572.96] Or -[4572.96 --> 4573.10] If -[4573.10 --> 4573.18] You -[4573.18 --> 4573.36] Have -[4573.36 --> 4574.36] Conversations -[4574.36 --> 4574.66] With -[4574.66 --> 4575.50] Invite -[4575.50 --> 4575.72] Them -[4575.72 --> 4575.88] To -[4575.88 --> 4576.08] Come -[4576.08 --> 4576.34] With -[4576.34 --> 4576.66] You -[4576.66 --> 4577.26] On -[4577.26 --> 4577.72] Sunday -[4577.72 --> 4578.90] So -[4578.90 --> 4579.06] We -[4579.06 --> 4579.18] Can -[4579.18 --> 4579.34] Look -[4579.34 --> 4579.44] At -[4579.44 --> 4579.56] That -[4579.56 --> 4579.80] Empty -[4579.80 --> 4580.24] Tomb -[4580.24 --> 4581.72] Together -[4581.72 --> 4584.56] As -[4584.56 --> 4584.74] You -[4584.74 --> 4585.16] Go -[4585.16 --> 4585.92] Today -[4585.92 --> 4586.50] And -[4586.50 --> 4586.90] Tomorrow -[4586.90 --> 4587.18] As -[4587.18 --> 4587.34] We -[4587.34 --> 4588.30] Anticipate -[4588.30 --> 4589.46] Sunday -[4589.46 --> 4590.56] The -[4590.56 --> 4591.04] Choice -[4591.04 --> 4592.42] Is -[4592.42 --> 4592.86] Yours -[4592.86 --> 4594.98] The -[4594.98 --> 4595.48] Cross -[4595.48 --> 4596.34] Informed -[4596.34 --> 4597.30] Life -[4597.30 --> 4598.52] Is -[4598.52 --> 4598.94] The -[4598.94 --> 4599.66] Only -[4599.66 --> 4600.70] Source -[4600.70 --> 4601.06] Of -[4601.06 --> 4601.56] Real -[4601.56 --> 4602.78] Life -[4602.78 --> 4605.98] If -[4605.98 --> 4606.14] You -[4606.14 --> 4606.38] Want -[4606.38 --> 4606.98] Jesus -[4606.98 --> 4608.10] Find -[4608.10 --> 4608.32] Him -[4608.32 --> 4608.66] There -[4608.66 --> 4610.66] Let's -[4610.66 --> 4610.82] Pray -[4610.82 --> 4611.20] Together -[4611.20 --> 4621.50] Lord -[4621.50 --> 4621.84] Jesus -[4621.84 --> 4622.84] We -[4622.84 --> 4623.22] Gather -[4623.22 --> 4624.60] We -[4624.60 --> 4625.06] Hear -[4625.06 --> 4626.78] We -[4626.78 --> 4627.22] Pray -[4627.22 --> 4629.48] We -[4629.48 --> 4629.82] See -[4629.82 --> 4630.50] Your -[4630.50 --> 4631.12] Cross -[4631.12 --> 4632.88] We -[4632.88 --> 4633.10] See -[4633.10 --> 4633.32] The -[4633.32 --> 4633.74] Love -[4633.74 --> 4634.74] Displayed -[4634.74 --> 4634.94] There -[4634.94 --> 4636.44] We -[4636.44 --> 4636.70] See -[4636.70 --> 4636.94] How -[4636.94 --> 4637.20] Your -[4637.20 --> 4637.72] Mercy -[4637.72 --> 4638.26] Is -[4638.26 --> 4638.74] Made -[4638.74 --> 4639.62] Real -[4639.62 --> 4641.50] And -[4641.50 --> 4641.74] So -[4641.74 --> 4641.96] Lord -[4641.96 --> 4642.24] God -[4642.24 --> 4642.40] We -[4642.40 --> 4643.12] Praise -[4643.12 --> 4643.66] Your -[4643.66 --> 4644.40] Name -[4644.40 --> 4646.38] Stir -[4646.38 --> 4646.80] In -[4646.80 --> 4647.30] Us -[4647.30 --> 4647.70] In -[4647.70 --> 4647.96] Our -[4647.96 --> 4648.32] Hearts -[4648.32 --> 4648.58] For -[4648.58 --> 4648.76] The -[4648.76 --> 4649.04] First -[4649.04 --> 4649.46] Time -[4649.46 --> 4649.98] Or -[4649.98 --> 4650.60] Renewed -[4650.60 --> 4651.04] Tonight -[4651.04 --> 4651.58] Stir -[4651.58 --> 4652.18] In -[4652.18 --> 4653.08] Us -[4653.08 --> 4653.46] To -[4653.46 --> 4654.54] Cling -[4654.54 --> 4655.20] To -[4655.20 --> 4655.38] The -[4655.38 --> 4655.94] Cross -[4655.94 --> 4657.04] Of -[4657.04 --> 4657.18] Your -[4657.18 --> 4657.62] Grace -[4657.62 --> 4658.80] Stir -[4658.80 --> 4659.14] In -[4659.14 --> 4659.54] Us -[4659.54 --> 4659.78] To -[4659.78 --> 4660.18] Reach -[4660.18 --> 4660.98] Out -[4660.98 --> 4661.26] To -[4661.26 --> 4661.62] You -[4661.62 --> 4662.30] Lord -[4662.30 --> 4662.74] Jesus -[4662.74 --> 4665.82] We -[4665.82 --> 4666.18] Cry -[4666.18 --> 4666.62] Out -[4666.62 --> 4667.36] For -[4667.36 --> 4667.66] Your -[4667.66 --> 4668.08] Mercy -[4668.08 --> 4669.44] We -[4669.44 --> 4669.74] Praise -[4669.74 --> 4669.96] Your -[4669.96 --> 4670.26] Name -[4670.26 --> 4671.62] In -[4671.62 --> 4671.70] The -[4671.70 --> 4671.82] Name -[4671.82 --> 4671.92] Of -[4671.92 --> 4672.12] Jesus -[4672.12 --> 4672.52] Christ -[4672.52 --> 4672.74] We -[4672.74 --> 4673.06] Pray -[4673.06 --> 4674.12] Amen -[4674.12 --> 4684.94] Please -[4684.94 --> 4685.24] Stand -[4685.24 --> 4685.46] With -[4685.46 --> 4685.76] Us -[4685.76 --> 4688.98] His -[4688.98 --> 4694.24] Mercy -[4694.24 --> 4695.16] Is -[4695.16 --> 4696.56] More -[4696.56 --> 4701.72] Stronger -[4701.72 --> 4701.94] Than -[4701.94 --> 4702.80] Darkness -[4702.80 --> 4704.18] New -[4704.18 --> 4704.84] Every -[4704.84 --> 4705.70] More -[4705.70 --> 4706.70] Our -[4706.70 --> 4707.26] Sins -[4707.26 --> 4707.76] They -[4707.76 --> 4708.26] Are -[4708.26 --> 4709.02] Many -[4709.02 --> 4709.84] His -[4709.84 --> 4710.48] Mercy -[4710.48 --> 4711.38] Is -[4711.38 --> 4712.28] More -[4712.28 --> 4717.34] What -[4717.34 --> 4718.22] Love -[4718.22 --> 4718.48] Could -[4718.48 --> 4719.54] Remember -[4719.54 --> 4720.36] No -[4720.36 --> 4721.08] Wrongs -[4721.08 --> 4721.42] We -[4721.42 --> 4721.98] Have -[4721.98 --> 4722.60] Done -[4722.60 --> 4724.60] Omniscient -[4724.60 --> 4725.08] All -[4725.08 --> 4725.88] Knowing -[4725.88 --> 4726.46] He -[4726.46 --> 4727.14] Counts -[4727.14 --> 4727.56] Not -[4727.56 --> 4728.06] Their -[4728.06 --> 4728.68] Son -[4728.68 --> 4729.76] Thrown -[4729.76 --> 4730.56] Into -[4730.56 --> 4731.24] Us -[4731.24 --> 4731.66] He -[4731.66 --> 4732.52] Without -[4732.52 --> 4733.42] Bottom -[4733.42 --> 4734.08] Or -[4734.08 --> 4734.52] Sure -[4734.52 --> 4737.12] Our -[4737.12 --> 4737.98] Sins -[4737.98 --> 4738.32] They -[4738.32 --> 4738.76] Are -[4738.76 --> 4739.48] Many -[4739.48 --> 4740.28] His -[4740.28 --> 4740.90] Mercy -[4740.90 --> 4741.80] Is -[4741.80 --> 4742.56] More -[4742.56 --> 4744.36] Praise -[4744.36 --> 4744.90] The -[4744.90 --> 4746.42] Lord -[4746.42 --> 4749.28] His -[4749.28 --> 4750.06] Mercy -[4750.06 --> 4750.74] Is -[4750.74 --> 4752.26] More -[4752.26 --> 4770.74] What -[4770.74 --> 4774.02] Patience -[4774.02 --> 4774.46] Would -[4774.46 --> 4775.02] Wait -[4775.02 --> 4775.48] As -[4775.48 --> 4775.80] We -[4775.80 --> 4777.12] Constantly -[4777.12 --> 4778.10] Roam -[4778.10 --> 4778.94] What -[4778.94 --> 4779.00] Father -[4779.00 --> 4779.02] What -[4779.02 --> 4779.90] Father -[4779.90 --> 4780.34] So -[4780.34 --> 4781.16] Tender -[4781.16 --> 4781.94] Is -[4781.94 --> 4782.62] Calling -[4782.62 --> 4783.48] Us -[4783.48 --> 4784.06] Home -[4784.06 --> 4784.90] He -[4784.90 --> 4786.02] Welcomes -[4786.02 --> 4786.52] The -[4786.52 --> 4787.38] Weakest -[4787.38 --> 4787.98] The -[4787.98 --> 4789.00] Vilest -[4789.00 --> 4789.48] The -[4789.48 --> 4790.22] Poor -[4790.22 --> 4792.38] Our -[4792.38 --> 4793.22] Sins -[4793.22 --> 4793.56] They -[4793.56 --> 4793.98] Are -[4793.98 --> 4794.68] Many -[4794.68 --> 4795.50] His -[4795.50 --> 4796.10] Mercy -[4796.10 --> 4796.96] Is -[4796.96 --> 4797.64] More -[4797.64 --> 4799.54] Praise -[4799.54 --> 4800.02] The -[4800.02 --> 4801.42] Lord -[4801.42 --> 4804.48] His -[4804.48 --> 4805.14] Mercy -[4805.14 --> 4806.00] Is -[4806.00 --> 4807.50] More -[4807.50 --> 4813.02] Stronger -[4813.02 --> 4813.20] Than -[4813.20 --> 4814.14] Darkness -[4814.14 --> 4815.44] New -[4815.44 --> 4816.06] Ever -[4816.06 --> 4817.12] Born -[4817.12 --> 4817.78] Our -[4817.78 --> 4818.64] Sins -[4818.64 --> 4819.00] They -[4819.00 --> 4819.44] Are -[4819.44 --> 4820.18] Many -[4820.18 --> 4820.88] His -[4820.88 --> 4821.54] Mercy -[4821.54 --> 4822.40] Is -[4822.40 --> 4823.04] More -[4823.04 --> 4828.38] What -[4828.38 --> 4829.52] Riches -[4829.52 --> 4829.94] Of -[4829.94 --> 4830.96] Kindness -[4830.96 --> 4831.36] He -[4831.36 --> 4832.50] Lavished -[4832.50 --> 4833.06] On -[4833.06 --> 4833.66] Us -[4833.66 --> 4834.54] His -[4834.54 --> 4835.38] Blood -[4835.38 --> 4835.64] Was -[4835.64 --> 4836.08] The -[4836.08 --> 4837.08] Payment -[4837.08 --> 4837.56] His -[4837.56 --> 4838.10] Life -[4838.10 --> 4838.62] Was -[4838.62 --> 4839.06] The -[4839.06 --> 4839.78] Cost -[4839.78 --> 4840.70] We -[4840.70 --> 4841.52] Stood -[4841.52 --> 4841.84] Neath -[4841.84 --> 4842.28] A -[4842.28 --> 4842.74] Deck -[4842.74 --> 4843.10] We -[4843.10 --> 4843.72] Could -[4843.72 --> 4844.46] Never -[4844.46 --> 4847.44] Afford -[4847.44 --> 4848.18] Our -[4848.18 --> 4849.04] Sins -[4849.04 --> 4849.32] They -[4849.32 --> 4849.76] Are -[4849.76 --> 4850.42] Many -[4850.42 --> 4851.24] His -[4851.24 --> 4851.84] Mercy -[4851.84 --> 4852.66] Is -[4852.66 --> 4854.24] More -[4854.24 --> 4855.18] Praise -[4855.18 --> 4855.68] The -[4855.68 --> 4857.10] Lord -[4857.10 --> 4859.98] His -[4859.98 --> 4860.68] Mercy -[4860.68 --> 4861.46] Is -[4861.46 --> 4862.98] More -[4862.98 --> 4868.48] Stronger -[4868.48 --> 4868.76] The -[4868.76 --> 4869.60] Darkness -[4869.60 --> 4870.96] New -[4870.96 --> 4871.60] Ever -[4871.60 --> 4872.60] Morn -[4872.60 --> 4873.40] Our -[4873.40 --> 4874.18] Sins -[4874.18 --> 4874.48] They -[4874.48 --> 4874.92] Are -[4874.92 --> 4875.66] Many -[4875.66 --> 4876.40] His -[4876.40 --> 4877.06] Mercy -[4877.06 --> 4877.90] Is -[4877.90 --> 4878.26] More -[4878.26 --> 4878.98] Praise -[4878.98 --> 4879.48] The -[4879.48 --> 4880.92] Lord -[4880.92 --> 4883.88] His -[4883.88 --> 4884.60] Mercy -[4884.60 --> 4885.36] Is -[4885.36 --> 4886.06] More -[4886.06 --> 4892.46] Stronger -[4892.46 --> 4892.66] Than -[4892.66 --> 4893.62] Darkness -[4893.62 --> 4894.90] New -[4894.90 --> 4895.52] Ever -[4895.52 --> 4896.54] Morn -[4896.54 --> 4897.20] Our -[4897.20 --> 4898.10] Sins -[4898.10 --> 4898.46] They -[4898.46 --> 4898.88] Are -[4898.88 --> 4899.66] Many -[4899.66 --> 4900.46] His -[4900.46 --> 4901.12] Mercy -[4901.12 --> 4902.00] Is -[4902.00 --> 4902.74] More -[4902.74 --> 4903.44] Our -[4903.44 --> 4904.34] Sins -[4904.34 --> 4904.72] They -[4904.72 --> 4905.18] Are -[4905.18 --> 4905.96] Many -[4905.96 --> 4906.90] His -[4906.90 --> 4907.60] Mercy -[4907.60 --> 4908.76] Is -[4908.76 --> 4909.80] More -[4909.80 --> 4921.30] Later -[4921.30 --> 4922.22] Knowing -[4922.22 --> 4922.58] That -[4922.58 --> 4923.06] Everything -[4923.06 --> 4923.52] Had -[4923.52 --> 4923.78] Now -[4923.78 --> 4924.08] Been -[4924.08 --> 4924.66] Finished -[4924.66 --> 4924.96] And -[4924.96 --> 4925.26] So -[4925.26 --> 4925.52] That -[4925.52 --> 4925.92] Scripture -[4925.92 --> 4926.62] Would -[4926.62 --> 4926.80] Be -[4926.80 --> 4927.38] Fulfilled -[4927.38 --> 4928.42] Jesus -[4928.42 --> 4928.82] Said -[4928.82 --> 4930.18] I -[4930.18 --> 4930.68] Am -[4930.68 --> 4931.40] Thirsty -[4931.40 --> 4933.56] A -[4933.56 --> 4933.82] Jar -[4933.82 --> 4934.00] Of -[4934.00 --> 4934.22] Wine -[4934.22 --> 4934.56] Vinegar -[4934.56 --> 4934.76] Was -[4934.76 --> 4935.04] There -[4935.04 --> 4935.26] So -[4935.26 --> 4935.42] They -[4935.42 --> 4935.56] So -[4935.56 --> 4935.98] They -[4935.98 --> 4936.00] Soked a -[4936.00 --> 4936.40] Sponge -[4936.40 --> 4936.62] In -[4936.62 --> 4936.76] It -[4936.76 --> 4937.18] Put -[4937.18 --> 4937.34] The -[4937.34 --> 4937.68] Sponge -[4937.68 --> 4937.90] On -[4937.90 --> 4938.06] A -[4938.06 --> 4938.36] Stock -[4938.36 --> 4938.56] Of -[4938.56 --> 4938.94] Hyssop -[4938.94 --> 4939.30] Plant -[4939.30 --> 4939.58] And -[4939.58 --> 4940.00] Lifted -[4940.00 --> 4940.14] It -[4940.14 --> 4940.36] Up -[4940.36 --> 4940.56] To -[4940.56 --> 4940.92] Jesus -[4940.92 --> 4941.48] Lips -[4941.48 --> 4943.98] When -[4943.98 --> 4944.12] He -[4944.12 --> 4944.32] Had -[4944.32 --> 4944.86] Received -[4944.86 --> 4945.06] The -[4945.06 --> 4945.46] Drink -[4945.46 --> 4947.08] Jesus -[4947.08 --> 4947.60] Said -[4947.60 --> 4948.66] It -[4948.66 --> 4948.82] Is -[4948.82 --> 4949.28] Finished -[4949.28 --> 4951.48] And -[4951.48 --> 4951.66] With -[4951.66 --> 4952.08] That -[4952.08 --> 4953.20] He -[4953.20 --> 4953.42] Bowed -[4953.42 --> 4953.56] His -[4953.56 --> 4953.90] Head -[4953.90 --> 4955.28] And -[4955.28 --> 4955.48] Gave -[4955.48 --> 4955.76] Up -[4955.76 --> 4956.54] His -[4956.54 --> 4956.92] Spirit -[4956.92 --> 4959.76] John -[4986.92 --> 4997.30] This my only comfort in my life and in my death -[4997.30 --> 5004.40] You have fully paid for all my sins and all my debt -[5004.40 --> 5009.40] Even when I struggled to believe -[5009.40 --> 5016.42] With your precious blood you set me free -[5016.42 --> 5030.86] I am not my own but belong body and soul -[5030.86 --> 5045.82] In my life and in death to you Lord Christ my Lord -[5045.82 --> 5053.32] You preserve my life in such a way that without you -[5053.32 --> 5060.26] Not a hair can fall from me unless you will it too -[5060.26 --> 5067.76] Even when I'm lost in desperation -[5067.76 --> 5073.76] All things work together for my salvation -[5073.76 --> 5087.20] I am not my own but belong body and soul -[5087.20 --> 5101.64] In my life and in death to you Lord Christ my Lord -[5101.64 --> 5105.14] You are my own but belong body and soul -[5105.14 --> 5107.08] I am not my own but belong body and soul -[5107.08 --> 5109.14] I am not my own but belong body and soul -[5109.14 --> 5114.64] Always by your Holy Spirit you assure me -[5114.64 --> 5132.64] Always by your Holy Spirit you assure me -[5132.64 --> 5140.14] Always by your Holy Spirit you assure me -[5140.14 --> 5147.08] Of eternal life and make me willing and ready -[5147.08 --> 5154.58] Even when I can't see my way through -[5154.58 --> 5162.08] From now on to always live for you -[5162.08 --> 5164.08] I am not my own but belong body and soul -[5164.08 --> 5168.02] I am not my own but belong body and soul -[5168.02 --> 5186.52] But belong body and soul in my life and in death to you Lord -[5186.52 --> 5191.02] Christ my Lord -[5191.02 --> 5205.02] I am not my own but belong body and soul -[5205.02 --> 5216.02] In my life and in death to you Lord -[5216.02 --> 5220.52] Christ my Lord -[5220.52 --> 5222.52] Christ my Lord -[5222.52 --> 5226.02] Amen -[5226.02 --> 5228.02] Amen -[5228.02 --> 5231.02] Amen -[5231.02 --> 5232.52] Amen -[5232.52 --> 5239.92] Amen -[5239.92 --> 5251.62] Hilar outdoor -[5251.62 --> 5281.60] Thank you. -[5281.62 --> 5311.60] Thank you. -[5311.62 --> 5341.60] Thank you. -[5341.62 --> 5371.60] Thank you. -[5371.62 --> 5373.62] Thank you. -[5401.62 --> 5403.62] Thank you. -[5431.62 --> 5433.62] Thank you. -[5461.62 --> 5463.62] Thank you. -[5491.62 --> 5493.62] Thank you. -[5521.62 --> 5523.62] Thank you. -[5551.62 --> 5553.62] Thank you. -[5581.62 --> 5583.62] Thank you. -[5611.62 --> 5613.62] Thank you. -[5641.62 --> 5643.62] Thank you. diff --git a/Good Friday Worship Service - April 2 2021_summary.txt b/Good Friday Worship Service - April 2 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ff76a1e7816b59322b413ce7ebaf71b81e676588..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Good Friday Worship Service - April 2 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,121 +0,0 @@ -• Christ is the hope and light of the speaker -• Christ is the strength and song of the speaker in times of struggle -• Christ's power gives the speaker comfort and peace -• Christ's love frees the speaker from guilt and fear -• The speaker finds their strength, hope, and help in Christ alone -• The people of the Lord are called to lift their voices and praise Christ as King -• Amazing grace is celebrated for its unknown and mysterious nature -• The speaker acknowledges the debt of love they owe to Christ and gives themselves over to Him -• The Passion of Jesus Christ and the worship of him -• A hymn to the crucified Jesus, describing his wounds and suffering -• A prayer for mercy and forgiveness, recognizing sin and deserving punishment -• Recognition of Jesus as Lamb of God, bearer of sins, and Redeemer of the world -• Prayer for peace and mercy on a family who has been betrayed -• A song or hymn, "Were you there when they crucified my Lord?", expressing shock and trembling at the thought of Christ's sacrifice -• The transcript discusses the poem "Fate And Desperate Men" and its relation to death and pride. -• The speaker reads from Luke 22:54-62, which tells the story of Peter's denials of Jesus. -• The timeline of events leading up to Peter's denials is discussed, including the Passover meal and Jesus' prophecy about Peter's denial. -• The story of Peter's three denials is retold in detail, highlighting his repeated denials of knowing Jesus. -• The speaker reflects on the significance of Peter's actions, noting that they occurred over a period of three to six hours during the night. -• The discussion concludes with the speaker contemplating the implications of Peter's behavior and how it relates to their own lives. -• Denying Jesus through disobedience and willful sin -• The consequences of refusing to forgive others as Jesus forgave us -• The connection between denying Jesus and engaging in behaviors such as pornography, lying, or seeking social acceptance over God's design for our life -• The theological concept that the cross is a curse, but what comes after it is joy -• The idea that rejecting Jesus can be understood through Peter's rejection of him, which is seen as a form of denial and judgment. -• The Christ hymn in Philippians 2 states that Jesus had to learn obedience through death on the cross -• This obedience is for the glory of God and leads to his exaltation as ruler over all -• Every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord, and the joy that enabled him to endure the cross is the glory of God -• The same principle applies to believers: their present sufferings are not worth comparing to the future glory revealed in them -• God's glory and believer's joy are intertwined; suffering now is used to magnify God's glory later -• This can be illustrated using the transitive property (A = B, B = C, therefore A = C) where obedience leads to a deeper relationship with God and ultimate glorification. -• The relationship between joy and glorifying God -• How obedience to God brings joy and glorification of God -• The connection between suffering, trials, and obeying God's will -• The consequences of choosing disobedience, including spurning the glory of God -• References to biblical passages (John 1:14, Colossians 1) that emphasize the glory of Jesus Christ -• The glory of God is made visible through Jesus -• Jesus is the perfect picture of obedience and humanity -• Denying or choosing something other than Jesus denies Him as well -• Making career or material gain one's goal in life denies Jesus' teachings -• Failing to love or honor family members, such as a spouse or parents, denies Jesus -• Holding onto negative emotions like bitterness, anger, or malice denies Jesus and His will -• Disobedience is not just an alternative way of living but a rejection of God's plan for joy and glory -• Discussion of Romans 3:24-26 and the concept of God's righteousness -• Reflection on Jesus' sacrifice for human disobedience -• Peter's denial of Jesus and its significance in Christian theology -• Emphasis on humanity's helplessness and need for salvation through faith -• Reference to Matthew 26:75, 27:55, and Mark 14:66-72 (Peter's denials) -• Moment of eye contact between Jesus and Peter -• Description of a hypothetical movie scene with music stopping at the moment of their eyes locking -• Analysis of the silence and tension in that moment -• Comparison to a camera panning from Jesus' face to Peter's reaction -• Imagery of Jesus turning his head and looking straight at Peter, and then at the speaker -• Jesus gives Peter a new name, Cephas, which means "rock" in Aramaic -• Jesus explains to Peter that he will be called Peter, the first time this has happened -• Jesus looks at Peter and knows him, giving him a new purpose and meaning -• Jesus tells Mark 10 about looking at them and saying with man it is impossible but with God all things are possible -• A man runs up to Jesus asking what must he do to be saved and inherit eternal life -• Jesus looks at the man and loves him -• Discussion of Jesus' face and emotions when looking at Peter -• Description of love as a soul-piercing, heart-quenching emotion -• Author's experience with raising children and applying "total depravity" doctrine in real-life situations -• Story about toddlers disobeying and requiring discipline -• Memories of watching TV in a living room -• Going up stairs to see family members -• Time Out rules and consequences for children -• Parent-child interactions and forgiveness -• Apologies and changing behavior for kids -• Saying "I love you" and forgiving mistakes -• Parenting style and setting rules for children -• Explaining the purpose of rules to a child (in this case, Nora) -• Obedience as a means of promoting happiness, safety, and freedom in life -• The relationship between obedience and personal joy and fulfillment -• Reframing obedience in a more positive light -• Connecting obedience to joy and happiness -• Setting the context for how children experience God and his call to holiness -• The importance of verbal and non-verbal communication when teaching children about God -• Showing love, joy, and hope through one's actions and emotions -• The speaker's love for someone is being rejected due to their lifestyle -• The Lord and Peter are used as examples of Jesus' unconditional love -• No matter how many times one denies or rejects Jesus, they will not be rejected by Him if they truly believe in Him -• This is an example of the gospel that Jesus was rejected so others would not have to be -• The speaker describes God's love and loyalty to the listener -• God gives the listener a new name as a child of God, promising never to leave or forsake them -• Obedience is discussed, but it's clarified that God remains faithful even if the listener is faithless -• The speaker recalls an earlier conversation about the meaning of suffering and trials for one's faith -• It's explained that obedience brings trials, but ultimately it's not about the listener's obedience, but rather about Jesus' obedience for them -• The relationship between Jesus and obedience -• Haplessness and helplessness, yet hope because of what Jesus accomplished -• Living for Jesus through obedience and gaining joy through Him -• Enduring trials and struggles with the understanding that Jesus knows rejection, pain, trial, and temptation -• Victory through Jesus' win over sin and giving us victory -• The speaker discusses the purpose of Peter's story in relation to their own story -• Reference is made to Jesus' prediction of Peter's denial (Matthew 26:32) -• Jesus' intercession on behalf of both Peter and the speaker is mentioned -• The speaker prays for the faith of the listener not to fail, but acknowledges that failure may occur -• Denial and restoration -• Using love, forgiveness, and healing to help others -• Changing lives through Jesus' love -• Personal testimony of being lost and found -• Stories of being moved from darkness into light -• Inspiring others through personal experiences with marriage and addictions -• The story of faith matters because it is a way to understand and share the gospel message. -• Faith can be "enfleshed" in one's life, making their story a reflection of God's work in them. -• Sharing personal stories of faith with others can help them see God at work in their lives. -• Small groups or communities are encouraged to share their stories and experiences with each other. -• The goal is to tell the story of faith and journey with Jesus. -• The joy of being God's glory and seeing Jesus endure the cross -• The power of the cross, where Christ became sin for us and took our blame -• Forgiveness at the cross, standing forgiven as a result of Christ's sacrifice -• The pain and weight of sin, including every bitter thought and evil deed -• The victory cry, with Christ raising from the dead and finishing His work -• Freedom from sin and death through Christ's suffering and wounds -• The power of the cross, where Christ's love and cost saved us -• Jesus' time on earth was accomplished -• The speaker has found life through Jesus' time -• The speaker knows that Jesus' death is finished and will boast in it -• Jesus' death and resurrection are the source of his pride -• The speaker cannot understand why they should gain from God's reward, but trusts in Jesus' wounds to pay for their sin -• A grandson is mentioned as being affected by Jesus' sacrifice -• The crucifixion of Jesus is described, including darkness, the sun stopping shining, and the temple curtain tearing. \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Good Friday Worship Service - April 2 2021_transcript.txt b/Good Friday Worship Service - April 2 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a3ccd95efc909bc382eba9eaf3c997436f4c4f0b..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Good Friday Worship Service - April 2 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2767 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 26.10] In Christ alone, my hope is found -[26.10 --> 31.22] And He is my light, my strength, my song -[31.22 --> 36.72] This cornerstone, this solid ground -[36.72 --> 41.84] Firm through the fiercest drought and storm -[41.84 --> 47.46] What heights of love, what depths of peace -[47.46 --> 52.68] When fears are still, when strivings cease -[52.68 --> 57.84] My comforter, my all in all -[57.84 --> 62.68] Here in the love of Christ I stand -[62.68 --> 66.94] Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh -[66.94 --> 72.22] Oh-oh-oh-oh aw-oh-oh -[72.22 --> 78.68] Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh -[78.68 --> 81.84] Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh queorl -[81.84 --> 88.72] Where in the ground His body lay -[88.72 --> 93.92] Light of the world by darkness slain -[93.92 --> 99.30] Then bursting forth in glorious day -[99.30 --> 104.12] Up from the grave He rose again -[104.12 --> 112.02] And as He stands in victory -[112.02 --> 117.94] Since curse has lost its grip on me -[117.94 --> 123.24] For I am His and He is mine -[123.24 --> 128.64] Bought with the precious blood of Christ -[128.64 --> 129.50] Ooh -[129.50 --> 136.50] Ooh -[136.50 --> 139.50] Ooh -[139.50 --> 140.50] Ooh -[140.50 --> 143.50] Ooh -[143.50 --> 145.50] Ooh -[145.50 --> 147.50] Ooh -[147.50 --> 151.50] No guilt in life -[151.50 --> 153.98] No fear in death -[153.98 --> 159.20] This is the power of Christ in me -[159.20 --> 164.20] From life's first cry to final breath -[164.20 --> 169.20] Jesus commands my destiny -[169.20 --> 172.20] No power of hell -[172.20 --> 174.20] No scheme of man -[174.20 --> 180.20] Can ever pluck me from His hand -[180.20 --> 181.20] Till He returns -[181.20 --> 182.20] Till He returns -[182.20 --> 183.20] Or calls me home -[183.20 --> 190.20] Here in the power of Christ I'll stand -[190.20 --> 192.20] Oh -[192.20 --> 196.20] Oh -[200.20 --> 202.20] In Christ alone -[202.20 --> 203.40] Christ alone. -[212.40 --> 215.98] I find my strength. -[216.30 --> 218.52] I find my hope. -[218.94 --> 223.74] I find my help in Christ alone. -[223.74 --> 228.74] In fear of sails, when darkness falls, -[228.74 --> 234.28] I find my peace in Christ alone. -[234.84 --> 237.14] I give my life. -[237.50 --> 239.66] I give my all. -[240.16 --> 244.70] I sing this song to Christ alone. -[245.38 --> 247.70] The King of kings. -[248.12 --> 250.36] The Lord of all. -[250.36 --> 255.14] All heaven sings to Christ alone. -[258.74 --> 261.82] To Christ alone. -[264.54 --> 267.10] In Christ alone. -[267.10 --> 272.58] To Christ alone. -[274.30 --> 278.60] To Christ alone. -[278.60 --> 297.30] Until he returns or calls me home -[297.30 --> 302.60] And here in the power of Christ I still... -[308.60 --> 331.60] Hear, O Israel -[331.60 --> 340.60] The people of the Lord -[341.16 --> 350.92] Be still and know that he is God -[350.92 --> 359.36] Love the Lord your God -[359.36 --> 366.66] With the fullness of your heart -[366.66 --> 371.48] With all your mind -[371.48 --> 378.48] Your strength and soul -[378.48 --> 385.48] We draw near through Christ -[385.48 --> 390.48] Who saves us -[390.48 --> 403.48] We draw near to the throne of grace -[403.48 --> 409.48] Hear, O Israel -[409.48 --> 418.38] The people of the Lord -[418.38 --> 422.58] Come lift your voice -[422.58 --> 427.48] And praise your King -[427.48 --> 432.48] A love sending -[432.48 --> 447.48] My Savior -[447.48 --> 448.48] The people of the Lord -[448.48 --> 449.48] Come lift your voice -[449.48 --> 450.48] The people of the Lord -[450.48 --> 452.48] Come lift your voice -[452.48 --> 453.48] And praise your King -[453.48 --> 456.48] Allah sent in my Savior -[456.48 --> 457.48] The people of the Lord -[457.48 --> 462.48] He ended my sovereign die -[462.48 --> 469.48] Then did my sovereign die -[469.48 --> 478.48] But he devolved that sacred end -[478.48 --> 485.48] For such a worm as I -[485.48 --> 494.48] Was it for crimes that I had done -[494.48 --> 502.48] Though he crawled down upon the tree -[502.48 --> 510.48] Amazing, magic, grace unknown -[510.48 --> 515.48] Living in love beyond the tree -[515.48 --> 517.48] Am I the sun in darkness as I -[517.48 --> 520.48] Be the sun in darkness as I -[520.48 --> 523.48] Be the sun in darkness as I -[523.48 --> 533.48] Then shed his glory sing -[533.48 --> 535.48] Am I the sun in darkness as I -[535.48 --> 539.48] Am I the sun in darkness as I -[539.48 --> 544.48] Then shed his glory sing -[544.48 --> 550.48] Am I the sun in darkness as I -[550.48 --> 556.76] Was the mighty maker I, -[556.76 --> 564.76] O'er man the creature's sin? -[564.76 --> 573.48] Thus might I hide my blushing face, -[573.48 --> 581.48] While his deep loss of peace -[581.48 --> 590.48] Dissolve my heart in faithfulness, -[590.48 --> 599.48] And help my eyes with tears. -[603.48 --> 619.48] The drops of grief can't repay, -[619.48 --> 628.48] The debt of love I owe. -[628.48 --> 636.48] Here, Lord, I give myself away, -[636.48 --> 644.48] Tis all that I can do. -[644.48 --> 652.48] How blessed did my Savior plead, -[652.48 --> 660.48] And did my sovereign God. -[660.48 --> 670.48] Amazing, dirty grace unknown, -[670.48 --> 678.48] And love beyond the sea. -[678.48 --> 688.48] I give myself away, -[688.48 --> 690.48] And did my sovereign God. -[690.48 --> 698.48] Amen. -[698.48 --> 703.48] Tonight, we remember Jesus, -[703.48 --> 707.48] Who in darkness died on the cross. -[707.48 --> 709.48] Tonight, we remember Jesus, -[709.48 --> 714.48] Who in dying bore punishment of sin. -[714.48 --> 716.48] Tonight, we remember Jesus, -[716.48 --> 721.48] Who in death endured being forsaken by God the Father. -[721.48 --> 727.48] Tonight, we enter into the darkness of the Friday called good. -[727.48 --> 731.48] Because God calls us to worship, -[731.48 --> 735.48] And welcomes us into his presence. -[735.48 --> 738.48] Receive the greeting of our God. -[738.48 --> 740.48] The Lord be with you. -[740.48 --> 747.48] May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, -[747.48 --> 748.48] And the love of God the Father, -[748.48 --> 751.48] And the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, -[751.48 --> 752.48] Be with you all. -[752.48 --> 753.48] Amen. -[753.48 --> 754.48] Amen. -[783.48 --> 793.48] Amen. -[793.48 --> 804.22] O sacred head, thou wounded, with grief and shame may drown. -[804.22 --> 816.54] Thou stormfully surrounded, with thrones your holy crown. -[816.54 --> 829.50] O sacred head of glory, and blessing you have known. -[829.50 --> 842.50] Yet through disguise and glory, I claim you as my own. -[842.50 --> 857.50] I thought that you did suffer, was all for sin as gay. -[857.50 --> 872.50] Mine, mine was the transgression, but cures the deadly pain. -[872.50 --> 889.88] So here I kneel, my Savior, for I deserve your place. -[889.88 --> 906.88] Look on me with your favor, and save me by your grace. -[906.88 --> 922.88] What language shall I borrow, to thank you, dearest friend? -[922.88 --> 940.88] Lord, this your dying sorrow, your mercy without end. -[940.88 --> 956.88] Lord, make me yours forever, a loyal servant true. -[956.88 --> 973.88] Lord, let me never, never outlive my love for you. -[973.88 --> 1001.98] Dear God, O crucified Jesus, Son the Father, conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, eternal word of God, we worship you. -[1003.88 --> 1015.24] O crucified Jesus, holy temple of God, dwelling place of the Most High, gate of heaven, burning flame of love, we worship you. -[1017.24 --> 1026.82] O crucified Jesus, sanctuary of justice and love, full of kindness, source of all faithfulness, we worship you. -[1026.82 --> 1037.62] O crucified Jesus, ruler of every heart, in you are the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. -[1037.80 --> 1041.18] In you dwells all the fullness of the Godhead. -[1042.06 --> 1043.16] We worship you. -[1045.98 --> 1049.86] Jesus, Lamb of God, have mercy on us. -[1051.22 --> 1055.42] Jesus, bearer of our sins, have mercy on us. -[1055.42 --> 1059.92] Jesus, Redeemer of the world, grant us peace. -[1063.96 --> 1068.08] Almighty God, look with mercy on your family. -[1069.14 --> 1076.50] For whom our Lord Jesus Christ was willing to be betrayed and to be given over to the hands of sinners -[1076.50 --> 1086.76] and to suffer death on the cross through him who now lives and reigns with you in the Holy Spirit, -[1087.36 --> 1089.14] one God forever and ever. -[1090.22 --> 1090.58] Amen. -[1090.58 --> 1090.72] Amen. -[1090.72 --> 1090.78] Amen. -[1090.78 --> 1090.80] Amen. -[1090.80 --> 1094.72] Amen. -[1094.72 --> 1098.72] Amen. -[1098.72 --> 1100.72] Amen. -[1100.72 --> 1102.72] Amen. -[1102.72 --> 1103.72] Amen. -[1103.72 --> 1104.22] Amen. -[1104.22 --> 1104.64] Amen. -[1104.64 --> 1104.72] Amen. -[1104.72 --> 1104.76] Amen. -[1106.50 --> 1136.48] Amen. -[1136.50 --> 1136.76] Amen. -[1136.76 --> 1137.06] Amen. -[1137.06 --> 1137.34] Amen. -[1152.84 --> 1166.00] Were you there when they crucified my Lord? -[1166.00 --> 1178.00] Were you there when they crucified my Lord? -[1178.00 --> 1195.00] Lord, sometimes it causes me to tremble. -[1195.00 --> 1202.00] Tremble, tremble. -[1202.00 --> 1215.00] Were you there when they crucified my Lord? -[1215.00 --> 1230.00] Were you there when they nailed Him to the tree? -[1230.00 --> 1237.00] Were you there when they nailed Him to the tree? -[1237.00 --> 1244.00] Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble. -[1244.00 --> 1259.00] Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble. -[1259.00 --> 1266.00] Tremble, tremble. -[1266.00 --> 1269.00] Tremble, tremble. -[1269.00 --> 1281.00] Were you there when they nailed Him to the tree? -[1281.00 --> 1296.00] Were you there when they laid Him in the tree? -[1296.00 --> 1311.00] Were you there when they laid Him in the tree? -[1311.00 --> 1318.00] Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble. -[1318.00 --> 1325.00] Sometimes it causes me to tremble. -[1325.00 --> 1333.00] Tremble, tremble. -[1333.00 --> 1339.00] Tremble, tremble. -[1339.00 --> 1354.00] Were you there when they laid Him in the tomb? -[1354.00 --> 1355.00] Were you there when you paddle? -[1356.00 --> 1361.00] I am. -[1361.00 --> 1377.28] hydrated and -[1377.28 --> 1381.80] People with Jorge -[1384.00 --> 1408.00] Death Be Not Proud, The World Fear You -[1408.00 --> 1415.00] Mighty and dreadful You may seem -[1415.00 --> 1424.00] Death Be Not Proud, For Your Pride Has Filled You -[1424.00 --> 1431.00] You Will Not Kill Me -[1431.00 --> 1440.00] Though You May Dwell In Plague And Poison -[1440.00 --> 1447.00] You Are Slave To Fate And Desperate Men -[1447.00 --> 1456.00] So Death If You Are Sleep Be The Gates To Heaven -[1456.00 --> 1471.00] Why Your Confidence When You Will Be No More -[1471.00 --> 1476.00] Why Your Will Be No More -[1476.00 --> 1480.00] No More -[1480.00 --> 1488.00] Why Your Will Be No More -[1488.00 --> 1495.00] Even Death Will Die -[1495.00 --> 1505.00] Even Death Will Die -[1505.00 --> 1511.00] Death Be Not Proud -[1511.00 --> 1518.00] Death Be Not Proud -[1518.00 --> 1522.00] Death Be Not Proud -[1522.00 --> 1526.00] Death Be Not Proud -[1526.00 --> 1548.00] Death Поain -[1548.00 --> 1554.00] Death Be Not Proud -[1554.00 --> 1566.64] We're going to take some time together tonight in the story of Good Friday, and we're going -[1566.64 --> 1571.30] to pick up a part of that story that takes place just before the crucifixion. -[1571.30 --> 1574.68] It is the trail of Peter. -[1575.38 --> 1579.92] If you have a Bible, I invite you to open that up and to find the text there. -[1580.00 --> 1581.52] I'm going to read from Luke 22. -[1581.52 --> 1584.96] We're going to read verse 54 to 62. -[1585.54 --> 1588.86] You can follow along on the screen, but also with the Bible in your hands. -[1591.74 --> 1593.82] Before we read, let me pray. -[1597.68 --> 1603.00] Lord Jesus, take your word and plant it deep in our hearts tonight. -[1603.00 --> 1611.78] Water it by your spirit, that it may grow and produce fruit in our lives. -[1613.04 --> 1618.28] In the hearing of your word, may we see Jesus more clearly tonight. -[1619.44 --> 1626.36] May our hearts' affections for you be stirred as we are drawn into your presence. -[1626.36 --> 1631.28] May your voice be clear. -[1633.42 --> 1636.22] Our faith made more alive. -[1637.46 --> 1640.94] We come to the cross and remember your death. -[1642.18 --> 1643.24] In Jesus' name we pray. -[1644.38 --> 1644.58] Amen. -[1644.58 --> 1648.90] Luke 22. -[1648.90 --> 1657.86] Then, seizing him, Jesus, they led him away and took him into the house of the high priest. -[1658.92 --> 1660.46] Peter followed at a distance. -[1661.80 --> 1666.62] And when some there had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and had sat down together, -[1667.76 --> 1668.98] Peter sat down with them. -[1668.98 --> 1673.30] A servant girl saw him seated there in the firelight. -[1674.20 --> 1676.18] She looked closely at him and said, -[1676.96 --> 1678.56] This man was with them. -[1679.54 --> 1680.78] But he denied it. -[1681.78 --> 1683.30] Woman, I don't know you. -[1683.48 --> 1684.76] I don't know him, he said. -[1686.28 --> 1688.82] A little later, someone else saw him and said, -[1689.56 --> 1691.38] You also are one of them. -[1692.10 --> 1694.36] Man, I am not, Peter replied. -[1694.36 --> 1699.48] About an hour later, another asserted, -[1700.38 --> 1704.60] Certainly, this fellow was with him, for he is a Galilean. -[1706.32 --> 1707.00] Peter replied, -[1707.12 --> 1709.52] Man, I don't know what you're talking about. -[1710.52 --> 1714.04] Just as he was speaking, the rooster crowed. -[1715.32 --> 1719.46] The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. -[1719.46 --> 1724.78] And then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him. -[1726.12 --> 1730.96] Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times. -[1731.92 --> 1735.78] He went outside, wept bitterly. -[1737.12 --> 1738.34] That's the word of the Lord. -[1738.34 --> 1751.28] Begin tonight, I want to just set the stage by following the timeline of events -[1751.28 --> 1754.50] that sort of gets to the story as we have read it. -[1756.10 --> 1758.68] The Passover meal has concluded. -[1758.86 --> 1761.88] Now, the Passover meal starts the day. -[1762.88 --> 1766.66] So in the Jewish calendar, the day starts after sunset. -[1766.66 --> 1771.82] And in Israel, about this time of year, around Passover, it's about 7 p.m. -[1773.38 --> 1777.72] Now, after the meal, Jesus teaches his disciples about greatness. -[1778.28 --> 1781.14] And then he makes a prophecy about Peter's denial. -[1782.24 --> 1788.86] And then after Peter's denial, there is a story of Jesus traveling to the Mount of Olives to pray, -[1789.16 --> 1790.60] as he would normally do. -[1790.74 --> 1794.16] And by this time, it's already getting late in the evening. -[1794.16 --> 1801.18] Now, the disciples are chastised for falling asleep while Jesus is praying. -[1801.44 --> 1805.16] And so I think it's safe to assume that it's probably around midnight. -[1805.16 --> 1813.84] And then you get the story in verse 47 and 48 of Jesus being revealed to the chief priests -[1813.84 --> 1818.98] and the gang of people who have come to arrest him by the betrayal of Judas' kiss. -[1819.78 --> 1823.46] And then once he is arrested, he is taken to the high priest house, -[1823.60 --> 1825.12] and that's the high priest Caiaphas. -[1825.12 --> 1830.22] And then we get the story that we read, the story of Peter's three denials. -[1831.22 --> 1836.10] The story comes to a close as the rooster crows in verse 60, and Peter remembers. -[1836.38 --> 1841.38] And then verse 66, which we didn't read, begins with the little phrase, -[1841.88 --> 1843.16] at daybreak. -[1844.00 --> 1849.74] Now, again, at about this time of year in Israel, that would be around 6.30 in the morning. -[1849.74 --> 1857.42] Now, a formal trial of the Sanhedrin in order to pass a death sentence could only happen after daybreak. -[1858.08 --> 1860.20] Now, it's unusual to do that on a feast day. -[1860.28 --> 1862.96] This is still Passover day, but it's not unheard of. -[1863.76 --> 1866.00] Now, why do I spell that out for you? -[1866.06 --> 1868.88] Why do we trace that timeline? -[1868.88 --> 1883.66] I want to do that because it means that Peter's three denials probably occurred over a three-to-six-hour period. -[1885.18 --> 1893.88] Three-to-six hours, long through the night, a whole night of hiding who he is, -[1893.94 --> 1896.48] a whole night of hiding the truth. -[1898.88 --> 1910.04] When I think about this story, I think about the times in my life where I've spent a whole night hiding the truth about who I am. -[1910.86 --> 1914.66] A whole night hiding the truth about who Jesus is. -[1915.94 --> 1920.94] When I was younger and I was at a party doing things that I shouldn't have been doing, -[1921.18 --> 1924.64] I spent a whole night denying the truth about who I am. -[1924.64 --> 1928.66] A whole night denying the reality that the next day I was supposed to get up and go to church. -[1929.80 --> 1934.62] And in doing that, I spent the whole night denying Jesus. -[1935.92 --> 1937.56] Maybe for you, it happens at work. -[1938.30 --> 1938.50] Right? -[1938.54 --> 1940.04] There's a conversation that's happening, -[1940.04 --> 1944.54] and jokes are being told that you know you probably shouldn't laugh at, -[1944.82 --> 1946.60] but you kind of just lower your head. -[1946.92 --> 1949.96] You half-smile if someone makes eye contact with you. -[1950.08 --> 1950.94] You try to hide. -[1951.04 --> 1952.10] You're trying to fit in. -[1952.40 --> 1952.54] Right? -[1952.56 --> 1954.06] You're afraid to be called out. -[1955.54 --> 1956.78] You're denying Jesus. -[1958.44 --> 1959.22] In fact, -[1959.22 --> 1963.54] anytime you willfully disobey, -[1963.68 --> 1963.84] right, -[1963.96 --> 1966.60] willful, regular patterns of disobedience, -[1966.86 --> 1969.00] you're denying Jesus. -[1970.68 --> 1973.46] Maybe it's pornography for you, right? -[1973.46 --> 1976.68] In that you are willfully denying Jesus, -[1976.90 --> 1977.48] who said, -[1977.92 --> 1982.24] anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has committed adultery in their heart. -[1983.02 --> 1983.56] Or, -[1983.64 --> 1986.22] anytime you refuse to forgive someone, -[1986.50 --> 1989.24] you are denying the voice of Jesus, -[1989.44 --> 1990.02] who says, -[1990.38 --> 1992.22] bear with each other and forgive one another. -[1992.22 --> 1994.36] And if any of you has a grievance against someone, -[1994.78 --> 1997.66] forgive as the Lord forgave you. -[1999.06 --> 2001.66] This is what I hope we can see together tonight. -[2002.36 --> 2004.50] And it comes in two parts. -[2005.14 --> 2005.46] First, -[2006.40 --> 2007.42] Peter's rejection -[2007.42 --> 2010.40] is my rejection. -[2011.94 --> 2013.00] And then second, -[2013.30 --> 2014.32] what we'll see is that -[2014.32 --> 2015.48] Jesus' rejection -[2015.48 --> 2018.32] is my salvation. -[2019.64 --> 2020.60] Peter's rejection -[2020.60 --> 2021.64] is my rejection, -[2021.64 --> 2022.88] and Jesus' rejection -[2022.88 --> 2024.76] is my salvation. -[2025.34 --> 2026.34] To that first point then, -[2026.52 --> 2027.88] let's start with a question. -[2028.84 --> 2031.04] How is disobedience -[2031.04 --> 2033.18] the same as denying? -[2035.04 --> 2036.88] When you hang on to unforgiveness, -[2037.32 --> 2038.36] when you keep doing -[2038.36 --> 2040.00] what you know in your head -[2040.00 --> 2042.48] to be contrary to God's will for you, -[2042.72 --> 2044.98] you are revealing in your heart -[2044.98 --> 2046.80] that you aren't really sure -[2046.80 --> 2047.84] Jesus was right. -[2049.10 --> 2049.28] Right? -[2049.30 --> 2050.80] When we chose or choose -[2050.80 --> 2052.64] what we know to be sin -[2052.64 --> 2054.84] over what we know to be right, -[2054.96 --> 2056.06] we're denying Jesus. -[2056.50 --> 2058.86] Denying that God's design for our life -[2058.86 --> 2060.40] is really for our joy. -[2061.40 --> 2061.86] Instead, -[2062.20 --> 2063.42] we think that porn -[2063.42 --> 2064.82] has a greater joy to offer. -[2065.14 --> 2066.72] We think that social acceptance -[2066.72 --> 2067.86] at work or school -[2067.86 --> 2068.42] will yield -[2068.42 --> 2070.08] a greater joy -[2070.08 --> 2071.16] in our lives. -[2072.46 --> 2073.62] We're going to dig deep -[2073.62 --> 2074.68] for a moment, -[2074.82 --> 2076.12] and so let's think -[2076.12 --> 2077.38] theologically -[2077.38 --> 2078.64] together. -[2080.50 --> 2081.26] Hebrews 12 -[2081.26 --> 2082.48] says that -[2082.48 --> 2084.28] Jesus endured the cross -[2084.28 --> 2085.48] for the joy -[2085.48 --> 2087.22] set before him. -[2088.22 --> 2088.48] Now, -[2088.86 --> 2090.40] don't hear what I'm not saying. -[2091.02 --> 2091.16] Right? -[2091.22 --> 2091.78] The cross -[2091.78 --> 2093.18] is not joy. -[2093.52 --> 2095.12] What comes after the cross -[2095.12 --> 2095.64] is joy. -[2095.72 --> 2096.24] The cross -[2096.24 --> 2097.08] is a curse. -[2097.36 --> 2097.84] The cross -[2097.84 --> 2098.38] is death. -[2098.50 --> 2098.88] The cross -[2098.88 --> 2099.58] is punishment -[2099.58 --> 2100.48] for sin. -[2100.48 --> 2101.12] The cross -[2101.12 --> 2101.74] is pain -[2101.74 --> 2102.36] and agony -[2102.36 --> 2103.40] and forsakenness. -[2103.66 --> 2104.36] The cross -[2104.36 --> 2105.36] is rejection. -[2106.62 --> 2107.82] Jesus endured -[2107.82 --> 2108.54] death, -[2109.08 --> 2109.46] punishment -[2109.46 --> 2110.14] for sin -[2110.14 --> 2111.22] that he did not commit. -[2111.52 --> 2112.10] He endured -[2112.10 --> 2113.02] being forsaken -[2113.02 --> 2114.00] by the Father -[2114.00 --> 2114.80] on the cross -[2114.80 --> 2115.90] for the joy -[2115.90 --> 2116.94] that would come -[2116.94 --> 2117.84] after. -[2120.22 --> 2120.42] Now, -[2120.46 --> 2121.24] the Christ hymn -[2121.24 --> 2122.52] of Philippians 2 -[2122.52 --> 2123.78] helps us fill this out. -[2124.20 --> 2124.30] Right? -[2124.36 --> 2124.92] The Christ hymn -[2124.92 --> 2125.64] in Philippians 2 -[2125.64 --> 2126.44] says that Jesus -[2126.44 --> 2128.28] had to learn obedience -[2128.28 --> 2129.62] and that that obedience -[2129.62 --> 2130.94] took him to death, -[2131.00 --> 2131.64] even death -[2131.64 --> 2132.64] on the cross -[2132.64 --> 2134.38] and because of that -[2134.38 --> 2135.36] he is exalted -[2135.36 --> 2137.16] to the highest place. -[2137.24 --> 2138.18] He is raised up -[2138.18 --> 2139.60] as ruler over all -[2139.60 --> 2141.28] and how does the Christ hymn -[2141.28 --> 2142.12] of Philippians 2 -[2142.12 --> 2142.72] then end? -[2143.72 --> 2144.32] It says, -[2145.16 --> 2145.72] every tongue -[2145.72 --> 2146.66] will confess -[2146.66 --> 2147.38] that Jesus -[2147.38 --> 2148.22] is Lord, -[2149.32 --> 2150.12] the glory -[2150.12 --> 2151.44] God -[2151.44 --> 2152.58] Father. -[2153.46 --> 2154.66] The joy -[2154.66 --> 2155.60] that was -[2155.60 --> 2156.78] before him -[2156.78 --> 2157.72] that enabled him -[2157.72 --> 2159.22] to endure the cross -[2159.22 --> 2160.30] is the glory -[2160.30 --> 2160.96] is the glory of God. -[2162.08 --> 2162.82] The joy -[2162.82 --> 2163.74] that was set -[2163.74 --> 2164.46] before him -[2164.46 --> 2165.26] that caused him -[2165.26 --> 2166.30] to empty himself -[2166.30 --> 2167.64] and to learn obedience, -[2167.72 --> 2168.36] even obedience -[2168.36 --> 2168.98] unto death -[2168.98 --> 2169.90] on the cross -[2169.90 --> 2170.88] was the glory -[2170.88 --> 2171.70] of God, -[2171.78 --> 2172.26] the Father. -[2172.86 --> 2174.24] Everything Jesus did, -[2174.36 --> 2175.54] everything he endured, -[2175.68 --> 2176.22] he did -[2176.22 --> 2177.24] for the glory -[2177.24 --> 2177.92] of God. -[2179.66 --> 2180.72] And so this -[2180.72 --> 2181.74] question -[2181.74 --> 2183.56] begins to emerge. -[2184.40 --> 2184.50] Right? -[2184.50 --> 2187.00] What enables you -[2187.00 --> 2188.16] now -[2188.16 --> 2189.16] to choose -[2189.16 --> 2189.76] obedience -[2189.76 --> 2190.96] in the hard -[2190.96 --> 2191.64] places? -[2193.64 --> 2194.18] For the joy -[2194.18 --> 2195.54] set before you -[2195.54 --> 2197.22] take up the cross -[2197.22 --> 2198.20] and follow him. -[2198.72 --> 2198.84] Right? -[2198.88 --> 2199.54] Because the joy -[2199.54 --> 2200.74] that's set before you -[2200.74 --> 2201.16] too -[2201.16 --> 2202.10] right here -[2202.10 --> 2202.80] and right now -[2202.80 --> 2203.48] as you daily -[2203.48 --> 2204.32] take up your cross -[2204.32 --> 2205.42] is the glory -[2205.42 --> 2206.08] of God. -[2207.36 --> 2208.22] What does Paul say -[2208.22 --> 2209.14] in Romans 8? -[2209.14 --> 2210.32] that I consider -[2210.32 --> 2211.72] our present sufferings -[2211.72 --> 2212.48] are not worth -[2212.48 --> 2213.02] comparing -[2213.02 --> 2214.06] to the glory -[2214.06 --> 2214.90] that will be -[2214.90 --> 2215.82] revealed in us. -[2216.44 --> 2218.10] God will be glorified -[2218.10 --> 2219.26] and your joy -[2219.26 --> 2220.52] is the glorifying -[2220.52 --> 2221.38] of God. -[2221.50 --> 2222.20] Your suffering -[2222.20 --> 2223.40] now will be used -[2223.40 --> 2224.48] to magnify -[2224.48 --> 2225.36] the glory -[2225.36 --> 2226.18] of God then. -[2226.46 --> 2227.10] Your obedience -[2227.10 --> 2228.28] now will be used -[2228.28 --> 2229.28] to magnify -[2229.28 --> 2230.12] the glory -[2230.12 --> 2230.90] of God then. -[2233.02 --> 2233.72] Let me -[2233.72 --> 2235.02] spell this out -[2235.02 --> 2236.24] for you -[2236.24 --> 2236.62] in a way -[2236.62 --> 2237.54] that might work -[2237.54 --> 2238.66] for those of you -[2238.66 --> 2239.70] math-brained -[2239.70 --> 2240.44] sort of people. -[2241.34 --> 2241.88] Maybe you -[2241.88 --> 2242.68] remember this -[2242.68 --> 2243.98] from high school math -[2243.98 --> 2244.26] right? -[2244.42 --> 2245.34] A equals B -[2245.34 --> 2246.90] B equals C -[2246.90 --> 2247.68] therefore -[2247.68 --> 2250.90] A equals C -[2250.90 --> 2252.22] right? -[2252.26 --> 2252.66] That's called -[2252.66 --> 2254.14] the transitive property. -[2255.34 --> 2255.74] Now let's put -[2255.74 --> 2256.80] what we have just -[2256.80 --> 2257.44] seen -[2257.44 --> 2258.60] through that -[2258.60 --> 2259.38] formula. -[2260.62 --> 2261.34] Your joy -[2261.34 --> 2262.38] equals -[2262.38 --> 2263.70] glorifying God. -[2264.70 --> 2265.84] Glorifying God -[2265.84 --> 2266.64] equals -[2266.64 --> 2268.02] your obedience -[2268.02 --> 2269.06] therefore -[2269.06 --> 2270.92] your obedience -[2270.92 --> 2271.94] equals -[2271.94 --> 2273.20] your joy. -[2274.56 --> 2274.68] Right? -[2274.72 --> 2275.40] Are you tracking -[2275.40 --> 2276.40] with me in this? -[2276.50 --> 2277.36] The Bible says -[2277.36 --> 2278.22] that your -[2278.22 --> 2279.50] greatest joy -[2279.50 --> 2280.40] comes from -[2280.40 --> 2281.60] glorifying God -[2281.60 --> 2282.32] from being -[2282.32 --> 2283.42] fully human -[2283.42 --> 2284.06] and alive -[2284.06 --> 2284.50] in Him -[2284.50 --> 2284.92] from being -[2284.92 --> 2285.80] fully obedient -[2285.80 --> 2286.36] to Him -[2286.36 --> 2287.26] and even -[2287.26 --> 2287.98] though Jesus' -[2288.26 --> 2288.66] obedience -[2288.66 --> 2289.32] took Him -[2289.32 --> 2290.00] to the cross -[2290.00 --> 2290.70] He endured -[2290.70 --> 2291.18] it because -[2291.18 --> 2292.06] of the joy -[2292.06 --> 2292.68] that would -[2292.68 --> 2293.04] follow. -[2293.16 --> 2293.70] He endured -[2293.70 --> 2294.14] it because -[2294.14 --> 2295.20] of the glory -[2295.20 --> 2295.76] it brings -[2295.76 --> 2296.20] to God -[2296.20 --> 2297.06] the Father. -[2298.48 --> 2299.12] Now there's -[2299.12 --> 2299.96] a thought -[2299.96 --> 2300.76] here. -[2302.12 --> 2302.56] Right? -[2302.58 --> 2303.04] What does this -[2303.04 --> 2303.84] mean for our -[2303.84 --> 2304.76] suffering? -[2304.88 --> 2305.20] What does this -[2305.20 --> 2305.68] mean for our -[2305.68 --> 2306.38] trials? -[2306.52 --> 2306.76] For our -[2306.76 --> 2307.48] taking up -[2307.48 --> 2308.10] our crosses? -[2308.24 --> 2308.34] Right? -[2308.38 --> 2308.74] If your -[2308.74 --> 2309.22] obedience -[2309.22 --> 2309.94] to the will -[2309.94 --> 2310.38] of God -[2310.38 --> 2310.98] brings trial -[2310.98 --> 2311.40] and hardship -[2311.40 --> 2311.86] and struggle -[2311.86 --> 2312.36] and you can -[2312.36 --> 2313.12] proceed through -[2313.12 --> 2313.70] it because -[2313.70 --> 2314.20] of the same -[2314.20 --> 2314.64] joy that -[2314.64 --> 2314.96] is set -[2314.96 --> 2315.70] before you -[2315.70 --> 2317.26] what is -[2317.26 --> 2317.58] that -[2317.58 --> 2318.60] joy? -[2319.24 --> 2319.84] And that's a -[2319.84 --> 2320.30] thought and we're -[2320.30 --> 2320.62] going to come -[2320.62 --> 2321.18] back to that -[2321.18 --> 2321.90] in a moment -[2321.90 --> 2322.72] so just know -[2322.72 --> 2323.18] that we will -[2323.18 --> 2323.54] get there -[2323.54 --> 2324.02] but park -[2324.02 --> 2324.48] it for a -[2324.48 --> 2324.66] minute. -[2325.70 --> 2326.18] But right -[2326.18 --> 2328.10] now since -[2328.10 --> 2329.16] it is true -[2329.16 --> 2330.90] that glorifying -[2330.90 --> 2331.90] God is my -[2331.90 --> 2332.54] joy and -[2332.54 --> 2333.30] obedience to -[2333.30 --> 2334.52] God glorifies -[2334.52 --> 2335.20] Him therefore -[2335.20 --> 2336.46] obedience is -[2336.46 --> 2337.40] my joy since -[2337.40 --> 2338.16] that is true -[2338.16 --> 2339.72] anytime you -[2339.72 --> 2341.54] choose disobedience -[2341.54 --> 2342.94] you are spurning -[2342.94 --> 2343.96] the glory of -[2343.96 --> 2344.30] God. -[2345.42 --> 2346.46] Anytime you -[2346.46 --> 2347.84] choose disobedience -[2347.84 --> 2348.58] you are saying -[2348.58 --> 2349.38] the glory of -[2349.38 --> 2350.30] God is not -[2350.30 --> 2351.26] my -[2351.26 --> 2352.20] joy -[2352.20 --> 2353.88] but Jesus -[2353.88 --> 2355.00] is not -[2355.00 --> 2355.54] my joy. -[2356.74 --> 2357.36] John says -[2357.36 --> 2358.32] in the opening -[2358.32 --> 2359.08] chapter of -[2359.08 --> 2360.00] his gospel -[2360.00 --> 2360.44] that we have -[2360.44 --> 2361.42] seen the glory -[2361.42 --> 2362.18] of the one -[2362.18 --> 2362.96] and only -[2362.96 --> 2363.66] come from -[2363.66 --> 2364.20] the Father -[2364.20 --> 2365.22] full of -[2365.22 --> 2365.90] grace and -[2365.90 --> 2366.28] truth. -[2367.02 --> 2367.78] Colossians 1 -[2367.78 --> 2368.18] makes it -[2368.18 --> 2368.84] abundantly clear -[2368.84 --> 2369.40] that Jesus -[2369.40 --> 2370.68] is the glory -[2370.68 --> 2371.46] of God -[2371.46 --> 2372.50] made visible -[2372.50 --> 2373.08] he is the -[2373.08 --> 2373.62] image of -[2373.62 --> 2374.26] the invisible -[2374.26 --> 2374.74] God -[2374.74 --> 2375.72] Jesus is -[2375.72 --> 2376.38] the perfect -[2376.38 --> 2377.68] picture of -[2377.68 --> 2378.18] obedience -[2378.18 --> 2378.78] and Jesus -[2378.78 --> 2379.44] shows us -[2379.44 --> 2379.78] what it -[2379.78 --> 2380.60] looks like -[2380.60 --> 2381.18] to really -[2381.18 --> 2381.98] be fully -[2381.98 --> 2382.46] human -[2382.46 --> 2383.64] fully alive -[2383.64 --> 2384.00] and when -[2384.00 --> 2384.52] you choose -[2384.52 --> 2385.34] something other -[2385.34 --> 2386.10] than him -[2386.10 --> 2388.06] you are in -[2388.06 --> 2390.24] fact denying -[2390.24 --> 2391.38] him. -[2393.20 --> 2394.12] When you -[2394.12 --> 2395.10] make your -[2395.10 --> 2395.60] career -[2395.60 --> 2397.14] your goal -[2397.14 --> 2398.16] in life -[2398.16 --> 2398.68] and the -[2398.68 --> 2399.36] source of -[2399.36 --> 2400.32] your meaning -[2400.32 --> 2401.12] and identity -[2401.12 --> 2402.04] in the world -[2402.04 --> 2403.30] you are denying -[2403.30 --> 2403.84] Jesus -[2403.84 --> 2405.22] who said -[2405.22 --> 2406.64] seek first -[2406.64 --> 2407.46] the kingdom -[2407.46 --> 2408.60] and his -[2408.60 --> 2409.20] righteousness -[2409.20 --> 2410.42] and these -[2410.42 --> 2410.96] things will -[2410.96 --> 2411.46] be added -[2411.46 --> 2412.26] to you. -[2413.28 --> 2413.62] When you -[2413.62 --> 2414.60] refuse to -[2414.60 --> 2415.42] love your -[2415.42 --> 2416.06] wife the -[2416.06 --> 2416.64] way Jesus -[2416.64 --> 2417.38] loved the -[2417.38 --> 2417.72] church -[2417.72 --> 2418.76] giving himself -[2418.76 --> 2419.52] up for her -[2419.52 --> 2420.20] or when you -[2420.20 --> 2421.26] don't respect -[2421.26 --> 2422.04] your husband -[2422.04 --> 2422.82] as the man -[2422.82 --> 2423.26] that God -[2423.26 --> 2423.74] has given -[2423.74 --> 2424.14] you to -[2424.14 --> 2424.96] reveal himself -[2424.96 --> 2425.32] through -[2425.32 --> 2426.28] you are both -[2426.28 --> 2426.86] denying -[2426.86 --> 2427.40] Jesus -[2427.40 --> 2427.86] because -[2427.86 --> 2428.56] marriage -[2428.56 --> 2429.16] is a -[2429.16 --> 2429.96] lived picture -[2429.96 --> 2430.32] of the -[2430.32 --> 2430.74] gospel -[2430.74 --> 2431.66] according to -[2431.66 --> 2432.50] Ephesians 5. -[2433.38 --> 2433.68] When you -[2433.68 --> 2434.26] don't honor -[2434.26 --> 2435.00] your parents -[2435.00 --> 2435.34] but you -[2435.34 --> 2435.72] fight -[2435.72 --> 2436.32] and you -[2436.32 --> 2436.76] lie -[2436.76 --> 2437.22] you are -[2437.22 --> 2437.72] denying -[2437.72 --> 2438.70] Jesus -[2438.70 --> 2440.14] when you -[2440.14 --> 2440.60] hang on to -[2440.60 --> 2440.94] bitterness -[2440.94 --> 2442.02] or malice -[2442.02 --> 2442.86] or rage -[2442.86 --> 2443.46] you are -[2443.46 --> 2444.02] denying -[2444.02 --> 2445.36] Jesus -[2445.36 --> 2451.56] disobedience -[2451.56 --> 2452.80] to the -[2452.80 --> 2453.18] will -[2453.18 --> 2454.56] and design -[2454.56 --> 2455.36] of God -[2455.36 --> 2456.68] isn't just -[2456.68 --> 2458.32] an innocuous -[2458.32 --> 2459.36] alternative way -[2459.36 --> 2459.90] of living -[2459.90 --> 2460.96] in the world -[2460.96 --> 2461.46] it is a -[2461.46 --> 2461.96] rejection -[2461.96 --> 2463.12] of the joy -[2463.12 --> 2463.70] that God -[2463.70 --> 2464.52] has for you -[2464.52 --> 2464.98] it's a -[2464.98 --> 2465.88] repudiation -[2465.88 --> 2466.70] of God's -[2466.70 --> 2467.20] plan for -[2467.20 --> 2467.74] his glory -[2467.74 --> 2468.18] it is a -[2468.18 --> 2468.70] denial -[2468.70 --> 2469.74] of Jesus -[2469.74 --> 2472.38] it's a -[2472.38 --> 2472.76] rejection -[2472.76 --> 2473.58] of why -[2473.58 --> 2474.04] Jesus -[2474.04 --> 2474.60] had to -[2474.60 --> 2474.88] come -[2474.88 --> 2475.80] into the -[2475.80 --> 2476.14] world -[2476.14 --> 2478.10] 2 Corinthians -[2478.10 --> 2478.92] 5.21 -[2478.92 --> 2479.44] says that -[2479.44 --> 2479.80] God -[2479.80 --> 2480.58] made him -[2480.58 --> 2480.96] who -[2480.96 --> 2481.80] had no -[2481.80 --> 2482.06] sin -[2482.06 --> 2482.60] to be -[2482.60 --> 2482.84] sin -[2482.84 --> 2483.40] for us -[2483.40 --> 2483.76] so that -[2483.76 --> 2484.26] in him -[2484.26 --> 2484.94] we might -[2484.94 --> 2485.46] become -[2485.46 --> 2485.78] the -[2485.78 --> 2486.28] righteousness -[2486.28 --> 2487.70] of God -[2487.70 --> 2490.38] he who -[2490.38 --> 2490.82] was -[2490.82 --> 2491.36] never -[2491.36 --> 2492.38] disobedient -[2492.38 --> 2493.32] bore the -[2493.32 --> 2493.98] disobedience -[2493.98 --> 2494.28] of us -[2494.28 --> 2494.56] all -[2494.56 --> 2494.96] so that -[2494.96 --> 2495.52] we might -[2495.52 --> 2496.12] be counted -[2496.12 --> 2497.36] obedient -[2497.36 --> 2499.58] to deny -[2499.58 --> 2500.64] him -[2500.64 --> 2501.34] is to -[2501.34 --> 2501.84] deny -[2501.84 --> 2502.78] this -[2502.78 --> 2503.88] truth -[2503.88 --> 2505.08] and instead -[2505.08 --> 2506.78] we are -[2506.78 --> 2507.28] all -[2507.28 --> 2508.82] every one -[2508.82 --> 2509.38] of us -[2509.38 --> 2510.72] Peters -[2510.72 --> 2513.28] here -[2513.28 --> 2515.90] crucible -[2515.90 --> 2516.44] moment -[2516.44 --> 2518.14] we are -[2518.14 --> 2518.46] Peter -[2518.46 --> 2519.90] I am -[2519.90 --> 2520.58] Peter -[2520.58 --> 2521.00] you -[2521.00 --> 2521.82] are -[2521.82 --> 2522.12] a -[2522.12 --> 2522.40] Peter -[2522.40 --> 2523.06] we -[2523.06 --> 2523.42] have -[2523.42 --> 2524.06] denied -[2524.06 --> 2525.14] Jesus -[2525.14 --> 2526.64] behold -[2526.64 --> 2526.88] the -[2526.88 --> 2527.20] lamb -[2527.20 --> 2527.66] on the -[2527.66 --> 2528.04] cross -[2528.04 --> 2528.46] my -[2528.46 --> 2528.98] sin -[2528.98 --> 2529.70] upon -[2529.70 --> 2529.98] his -[2529.98 --> 2530.42] shoulders -[2530.42 --> 2530.90] ashamed -[2530.90 --> 2531.32] I hear -[2531.32 --> 2531.78] my -[2531.78 --> 2532.26] mocking -[2532.26 --> 2532.68] voice -[2532.68 --> 2533.38] call out -[2533.38 --> 2533.64] among -[2533.64 --> 2533.84] the -[2533.84 --> 2534.22] scoffers -[2534.22 --> 2534.52] it was -[2534.52 --> 2534.94] my -[2534.94 --> 2535.42] sin -[2535.42 --> 2535.92] that -[2535.92 --> 2536.18] held -[2536.18 --> 2536.34] him -[2536.34 --> 2536.54] there -[2536.54 --> 2537.14] we -[2537.14 --> 2537.64] like -[2537.64 --> 2538.18] Peter -[2538.18 --> 2538.66] have -[2538.66 --> 2539.18] rejected -[2539.18 --> 2539.92] Jesus -[2539.92 --> 2540.28] and -[2540.28 --> 2540.62] are -[2540.62 --> 2541.10] hapless -[2541.10 --> 2541.60] and -[2541.60 --> 2542.10] helpless -[2542.10 --> 2542.80] in -[2542.80 --> 2543.22] ourselves -[2543.22 --> 2543.60] we are -[2543.60 --> 2544.04] hapless -[2544.04 --> 2544.84] and helpless -[2544.84 --> 2545.16] in that -[2545.16 --> 2545.38] we've -[2545.38 --> 2545.80] denied -[2545.80 --> 2546.10] him -[2546.10 --> 2546.64] Peter -[2546.64 --> 2547.04] denied -[2547.04 --> 2547.26] him -[2547.26 --> 2547.54] and we -[2547.54 --> 2547.88] can do -[2547.88 --> 2548.10] no -[2548.10 --> 2548.42] other -[2548.42 --> 2549.14] we can't -[2549.14 --> 2549.48] save -[2549.48 --> 2549.92] ourselves -[2549.92 --> 2550.28] we are -[2550.28 --> 2550.66] hapless -[2550.66 --> 2551.52] and helpless -[2551.52 --> 2552.48] but -[2552.48 --> 2553.76] we are -[2553.76 --> 2554.34] not -[2554.34 --> 2555.34] hopeless -[2555.34 --> 2558.72] then -[2558.72 --> 2558.74] then -[2558.74 --> 2558.86] the -[2558.86 --> 2559.12] Lord -[2559.12 --> 2559.66] turned -[2559.66 --> 2559.92] and -[2559.92 --> 2560.32] looked -[2560.32 --> 2560.92] straight -[2560.92 --> 2562.10] at -[2562.10 --> 2562.40] Peter -[2562.40 --> 2563.64] verse -[2563.64 --> 2564.08] 61 -[2564.08 --> 2564.46] of our -[2564.46 --> 2564.82] text -[2564.82 --> 2565.32] then -[2565.32 --> 2565.46] the -[2565.46 --> 2565.64] Lord -[2565.64 --> 2566.14] turned -[2566.14 --> 2566.38] and -[2566.38 --> 2566.70] looked -[2566.70 --> 2567.50] straight -[2567.50 --> 2568.74] at -[2568.74 --> 2569.04] Peter -[2569.04 --> 2571.18] what -[2571.18 --> 2571.28] do -[2571.28 --> 2571.30] you -[2571.30 --> 2571.44] think -[2571.44 --> 2571.58] was -[2571.58 --> 2571.72] in -[2571.72 --> 2571.94] Jesus -[2571.94 --> 2572.40] eyes -[2572.40 --> 2573.08] in -[2573.08 --> 2573.34] that -[2573.34 --> 2573.74] moment -[2573.74 --> 2575.50] what -[2575.50 --> 2575.64] was -[2575.64 --> 2575.76] in -[2575.76 --> 2575.92] his -[2575.92 --> 2576.48] eyes -[2576.48 --> 2576.74] as -[2576.74 --> 2576.88] he -[2576.88 --> 2577.34] turns -[2577.34 --> 2577.86] and -[2577.86 --> 2578.24] looks -[2578.24 --> 2579.02] at -[2579.02 --> 2579.32] Peter -[2579.32 --> 2580.82] Peter -[2580.82 --> 2580.94] is -[2580.94 --> 2581.10] down -[2581.10 --> 2581.20] in -[2581.20 --> 2581.32] a -[2581.32 --> 2581.66] courtyard -[2581.66 --> 2582.40] Jesus -[2582.40 --> 2582.68] is -[2582.68 --> 2583.04] probably -[2583.04 --> 2583.38] in -[2583.38 --> 2583.60] a -[2583.60 --> 2583.86] second -[2583.86 --> 2584.44] story -[2584.44 --> 2585.00] meeting -[2585.00 --> 2585.28] room -[2585.28 --> 2585.40] and -[2585.40 --> 2585.54] he -[2585.54 --> 2586.04] looks -[2586.04 --> 2586.36] out -[2586.36 --> 2586.52] a -[2586.52 --> 2586.76] window -[2586.76 --> 2587.16] down -[2587.16 --> 2587.34] to -[2587.34 --> 2587.50] the -[2587.50 --> 2587.86] courtyard -[2587.86 --> 2588.30] and -[2588.30 --> 2588.40] if -[2588.40 --> 2588.48] it -[2588.48 --> 2588.60] was -[2588.60 --> 2588.78] a -[2588.78 --> 2589.12] movie -[2589.12 --> 2589.58] the -[2589.58 --> 2589.94] music -[2589.94 --> 2590.22] would -[2590.22 --> 2590.96] stop -[2590.96 --> 2591.58] dead -[2591.58 --> 2591.78] at -[2591.78 --> 2591.94] this -[2591.94 --> 2592.22] moment -[2592.22 --> 2592.42] and -[2592.42 --> 2592.58] the -[2592.58 --> 2593.22] silence -[2593.22 --> 2593.66] would -[2593.66 --> 2593.82] be -[2593.82 --> 2594.44] deafening -[2594.44 --> 2594.88] as -[2594.88 --> 2595.04] the -[2595.04 --> 2595.34] camera -[2595.34 --> 2595.74] pans -[2595.74 --> 2595.98] from -[2595.98 --> 2596.26] Jesus -[2596.26 --> 2596.62] face -[2596.62 --> 2597.02] following -[2597.02 --> 2597.30] his -[2597.30 --> 2597.54] line -[2597.54 --> 2597.68] of -[2597.68 --> 2597.92] sight -[2597.92 --> 2598.52] directly -[2598.52 --> 2598.84] down -[2598.84 --> 2599.00] to -[2599.00 --> 2599.24] Peter -[2599.24 --> 2599.78] Peter -[2599.78 --> 2599.98] would -[2599.98 --> 2600.20] look -[2600.20 --> 2600.42] up -[2600.42 --> 2600.60] and -[2600.60 --> 2601.06] see -[2601.06 --> 2601.40] Jesus -[2601.40 --> 2601.68] head -[2601.68 --> 2602.08] slowly -[2602.08 --> 2602.46] turning -[2602.46 --> 2602.62] and -[2602.62 --> 2602.74] their -[2602.74 --> 2603.06] eyes -[2603.06 --> 2603.26] would -[2603.26 --> 2603.60] lock -[2603.60 --> 2603.96] and -[2603.96 --> 2604.06] it -[2604.06 --> 2604.18] would -[2604.18 --> 2604.34] be -[2604.34 --> 2605.04] silent -[2605.04 --> 2605.50] and -[2605.50 --> 2606.10] deafening -[2606.10 --> 2606.50] and -[2606.50 --> 2606.64] it -[2606.64 --> 2606.74] would -[2606.74 --> 2606.90] be -[2606.90 --> 2607.38] roaring -[2607.38 --> 2607.82] in -[2607.82 --> 2608.14] our -[2608.14 --> 2608.90] souls -[2608.90 --> 2610.88] Jesus -[2610.88 --> 2611.50] turned -[2611.50 --> 2611.82] and -[2611.82 --> 2612.10] looked -[2612.10 --> 2612.72] straight -[2612.72 --> 2613.80] at -[2613.80 --> 2614.16] Peter -[2614.16 --> 2614.82] Jesus -[2614.82 --> 2615.38] turns -[2615.38 --> 2615.56] and -[2615.56 --> 2615.68] he -[2615.68 --> 2615.94] looks -[2615.94 --> 2616.44] straight -[2616.44 --> 2616.88] at -[2616.88 --> 2617.26] you -[2617.26 --> 2618.04] now -[2618.04 --> 2618.86] here -[2618.86 --> 2622.84] the -[2622.84 --> 2623.08] first -[2623.08 --> 2623.50] time -[2623.50 --> 2624.30] that -[2624.30 --> 2624.56] Peter -[2624.56 --> 2625.40] met -[2625.40 --> 2626.30] Jesus -[2626.30 --> 2627.80] Andrew -[2627.80 --> 2628.54] brought -[2628.54 --> 2629.18] Peter -[2629.18 --> 2629.76] to -[2629.76 --> 2630.22] Jesus -[2630.22 --> 2631.12] he -[2631.12 --> 2631.30] was -[2631.30 --> 2631.62] still -[2631.62 --> 2632.02] called -[2632.02 --> 2632.50] Simon -[2632.50 --> 2633.18] then -[2633.18 --> 2634.36] we -[2634.36 --> 2634.54] can -[2634.54 --> 2635.06] read -[2635.06 --> 2635.18] in -[2635.18 --> 2635.42] that -[2635.42 --> 2636.00] story -[2636.00 --> 2636.22] that -[2636.22 --> 2636.48] Jesus -[2636.48 --> 2636.90] looked -[2636.90 --> 2637.12] at -[2637.12 --> 2637.44] Peter -[2637.44 --> 2637.72] and -[2637.72 --> 2638.04] said -[2638.04 --> 2638.56] you -[2638.56 --> 2639.30] are -[2639.30 --> 2639.94] Simon -[2639.94 --> 2641.02] son -[2641.02 --> 2641.26] of -[2641.26 --> 2641.62] John -[2641.62 --> 2642.28] you -[2642.28 --> 2642.62] will -[2642.62 --> 2642.78] be -[2642.78 --> 2643.20] called -[2643.20 --> 2643.92] Cephas -[2643.92 --> 2644.58] which -[2644.58 --> 2644.86] when -[2644.86 --> 2645.46] translated -[2645.46 --> 2646.02] is -[2646.02 --> 2646.32] Peter -[2646.32 --> 2647.42] the -[2647.42 --> 2647.78] first -[2647.78 --> 2648.24] time -[2648.24 --> 2648.48] that -[2648.48 --> 2648.78] Jesus -[2648.78 --> 2649.26] looked -[2649.26 --> 2649.76] straight -[2649.76 --> 2650.26] at -[2650.26 --> 2650.64] Peter -[2650.64 --> 2651.10] he -[2651.10 --> 2651.44] knew -[2651.44 --> 2651.76] him -[2651.76 --> 2652.16] and -[2652.16 --> 2652.52] gave -[2652.52 --> 2652.76] him -[2652.76 --> 2653.02] a -[2653.02 --> 2653.34] new -[2653.34 --> 2654.08] name -[2654.08 --> 2654.70] he -[2654.70 --> 2655.00] gave -[2655.00 --> 2655.12] him -[2655.12 --> 2655.32] a -[2655.32 --> 2655.80] purpose -[2655.80 --> 2656.38] and -[2656.38 --> 2656.54] a -[2656.54 --> 2656.86] meaning -[2656.86 --> 2659.88] Mark -[2659.88 --> 2660.20] 10 -[2660.20 --> 2661.00] Jesus -[2661.00 --> 2661.36] looked -[2661.36 --> 2661.50] at -[2661.50 --> 2661.72] them -[2661.72 --> 2662.02] and -[2662.02 --> 2662.38] said -[2662.38 --> 2662.94] with -[2662.94 --> 2663.34] man -[2663.34 --> 2663.62] this -[2663.62 --> 2663.82] is -[2663.82 --> 2664.34] impossible -[2664.34 --> 2664.88] but -[2664.88 --> 2665.18] not -[2665.18 --> 2665.40] with -[2665.40 --> 2665.74] God -[2665.74 --> 2666.16] all -[2666.16 --> 2666.68] things -[2666.68 --> 2666.90] are -[2666.90 --> 2667.50] possible -[2667.50 --> 2668.12] with -[2668.12 --> 2668.46] God -[2668.46 --> 2669.18] hapless -[2669.18 --> 2669.76] and -[2669.76 --> 2670.16] helpless -[2670.16 --> 2670.72] but -[2670.72 --> 2671.14] not -[2671.14 --> 2672.08] hopeless -[2672.08 --> 2674.82] one -[2674.82 --> 2675.10] time -[2675.10 --> 2675.42] Jesus -[2675.42 --> 2675.86] was -[2675.86 --> 2676.76] walking -[2676.76 --> 2677.20] along -[2677.20 --> 2677.42] and -[2677.42 --> 2677.76] teaching -[2677.76 --> 2678.06] and -[2678.06 --> 2678.18] a -[2678.18 --> 2678.38] man -[2678.38 --> 2678.68] ran -[2678.68 --> 2678.92] up -[2678.92 --> 2679.12] and -[2679.12 --> 2679.36] fell -[2679.36 --> 2679.66] down -[2679.66 --> 2679.84] in -[2679.84 --> 2680.04] front -[2680.04 --> 2680.20] of -[2680.20 --> 2680.48] Jesus -[2680.48 --> 2680.80] and -[2680.80 --> 2681.10] said -[2681.10 --> 2681.50] what -[2681.50 --> 2681.74] must -[2681.74 --> 2681.90] I -[2681.90 --> 2682.06] do -[2682.06 --> 2682.22] to -[2682.22 --> 2682.38] be -[2682.38 --> 2682.70] saved -[2682.70 --> 2682.90] what -[2682.90 --> 2683.10] must -[2683.10 --> 2683.22] I -[2683.22 --> 2683.36] do -[2683.36 --> 2683.52] to -[2683.52 --> 2683.84] inherit -[2683.84 --> 2684.22] eternal -[2684.22 --> 2684.50] life -[2684.50 --> 2684.68] and -[2684.68 --> 2684.94] Mark -[2684.94 --> 2685.30] tells -[2685.30 --> 2685.50] us -[2685.50 --> 2685.68] that -[2685.68 --> 2686.32] Jesus -[2686.32 --> 2686.92] looked -[2686.92 --> 2687.14] at -[2687.14 --> 2687.46] him -[2687.46 --> 2688.88] and -[2688.88 --> 2689.30] loved -[2689.30 --> 2689.72] him -[2689.72 --> 2691.64] he -[2691.64 --> 2691.92] looked -[2691.92 --> 2692.08] at -[2692.08 --> 2692.42] him -[2692.42 --> 2694.18] loved -[2694.18 --> 2694.54] him -[2694.54 --> 2696.18] what -[2696.18 --> 2696.32] was -[2696.32 --> 2696.48] on -[2696.48 --> 2696.70] Jesus -[2696.70 --> 2697.14] face -[2697.14 --> 2697.30] when -[2697.30 --> 2697.44] he -[2697.44 --> 2697.66] looked -[2697.66 --> 2697.84] at -[2697.84 --> 2698.22] Peter -[2698.22 --> 2698.82] in -[2698.82 --> 2699.08] that -[2699.08 --> 2699.48] moment -[2699.48 --> 2699.96] in -[2699.96 --> 2700.24] that -[2700.24 --> 2700.64] courtyard -[2700.64 --> 2703.40] I -[2703.40 --> 2703.64] believe -[2703.64 --> 2703.76] it -[2703.76 --> 2703.88] was -[2703.88 --> 2704.18] love -[2704.18 --> 2705.96] soul -[2705.96 --> 2706.56] piercing -[2706.56 --> 2707.54] heart -[2707.54 --> 2708.34] quenching -[2708.34 --> 2708.98] fully -[2708.98 --> 2709.60] known -[2709.60 --> 2709.84] and -[2709.84 --> 2710.38] fully -[2710.38 --> 2711.32] knowing -[2711.32 --> 2712.32] love -[2712.32 --> 2719.20] let -[2719.20 --> 2719.26] me -[2719.26 --> 2719.42] see -[2719.42 --> 2719.56] if -[2719.56 --> 2719.66] I -[2719.66 --> 2719.82] can -[2719.82 --> 2720.82] make -[2720.82 --> 2720.96] that -[2720.96 --> 2721.14] more -[2721.14 --> 2721.60] tangible -[2721.60 --> 2721.94] for -[2721.94 --> 2722.14] you -[2722.14 --> 2724.86] I -[2724.86 --> 2724.98] have -[2724.98 --> 2725.26] two -[2725.26 --> 2726.02] small -[2726.02 --> 2726.52] kids -[2726.52 --> 2727.02] my -[2727.02 --> 2727.24] daughter -[2727.24 --> 2727.38] is -[2727.38 --> 2727.62] eight -[2727.62 --> 2727.84] my -[2727.84 --> 2728.02] son -[2728.02 --> 2728.16] is -[2728.16 --> 2728.48] six -[2728.48 --> 2729.58] and -[2729.58 --> 2729.70] let -[2729.70 --> 2729.80] me -[2729.80 --> 2730.00] tell -[2730.00 --> 2730.26] you -[2730.26 --> 2731.20] when -[2731.20 --> 2731.54] people -[2731.54 --> 2731.90] tell -[2731.90 --> 2732.10] me -[2732.10 --> 2732.28] that -[2732.28 --> 2732.42] they -[2732.42 --> 2732.62] don't -[2732.62 --> 2732.92] believe -[2732.92 --> 2733.08] in -[2733.08 --> 2733.20] the -[2733.20 --> 2733.66] theological -[2733.66 --> 2734.10] doctrine -[2734.10 --> 2734.26] of -[2734.26 --> 2734.50] total -[2734.50 --> 2735.04] depravity -[2735.04 --> 2735.52] I -[2735.52 --> 2735.76] tell -[2735.76 --> 2735.94] them -[2735.94 --> 2736.10] to -[2736.10 --> 2736.32] raise -[2736.32 --> 2736.86] toddlers -[2736.86 --> 2738.86] now -[2738.86 --> 2739.28] thankfully -[2739.28 --> 2739.86] my -[2739.86 --> 2740.12] kids -[2740.12 --> 2740.38] aren't -[2740.38 --> 2740.74] toddlers -[2740.74 --> 2741.04] anymore -[2741.04 --> 2741.24] but -[2741.24 --> 2741.32] I -[2741.32 --> 2741.42] gotta -[2741.42 --> 2741.66] tell -[2741.66 --> 2741.74] you -[2741.74 --> 2742.00] total -[2742.00 --> 2742.44] depravity -[2742.44 --> 2742.56] is -[2742.56 --> 2742.74] still -[2742.74 --> 2742.98] real -[2742.98 --> 2743.08] in -[2743.08 --> 2743.22] my -[2743.22 --> 2743.52] house -[2743.52 --> 2745.72] now -[2745.72 --> 2745.80] when -[2745.80 --> 2745.90] they -[2745.90 --> 2746.06] were -[2746.06 --> 2746.44] younger -[2746.44 --> 2748.14] sometimes -[2748.14 --> 2748.92] they -[2748.92 --> 2749.06] would -[2749.06 --> 2749.46] disobey -[2749.46 --> 2750.66] and -[2750.66 --> 2750.76] they -[2750.76 --> 2750.92] needed -[2750.92 --> 2751.36] discipline -[2751.36 --> 2751.76] and -[2751.76 --> 2751.84] when -[2751.84 --> 2751.94] they -[2751.94 --> 2752.14] were -[2752.14 --> 2753.02] toddlers -[2753.02 --> 2753.50] one -[2753.50 --> 2753.64] of -[2753.64 --> 2753.76] the -[2753.76 --> 2754.08] things -[2754.08 --> 2754.28] that -[2754.28 --> 2754.40] we -[2754.40 --> 2754.58] would -[2754.58 --> 2754.92] do -[2754.92 --> 2755.60] as -[2755.60 --> 2755.98] parents -[2755.98 --> 2756.16] was -[2756.16 --> 2756.40] called -[2756.40 --> 2756.80] time -[2756.80 --> 2757.18] outs -[2757.18 --> 2758.22] right -[2758.22 --> 2758.36] and -[2758.36 --> 2758.46] you -[2758.46 --> 2758.60] would -[2758.60 --> 2758.90] go -[2758.90 --> 2759.34] sit -[2759.34 --> 2759.52] on -[2759.52 --> 2759.70] the -[2759.70 --> 2760.14] stairs -[2760.14 --> 2760.68] and -[2760.68 --> 2760.78] we -[2760.78 --> 2760.90] would -[2760.90 --> 2761.02] do -[2761.02 --> 2761.22] that -[2761.22 --> 2761.70] in -[2761.70 --> 2761.86] our -[2761.86 --> 2762.12] old -[2762.12 --> 2762.40] house -[2762.40 --> 2762.68] in -[2762.68 --> 2762.96] St. -[2762.96 --> 2763.52] Catherine's -[2763.52 --> 2763.86] in -[2763.86 --> 2764.08] such -[2764.08 --> 2764.18] a -[2764.18 --> 2764.28] way -[2764.28 --> 2764.40] that -[2764.40 --> 2764.46] you -[2764.46 --> 2764.56] had -[2764.56 --> 2764.64] to -[2764.64 --> 2764.82] go -[2764.82 --> 2765.44] just -[2765.44 --> 2765.80] high -[2765.80 --> 2766.08] enough -[2766.08 --> 2766.30] up -[2766.30 --> 2766.46] the -[2766.46 --> 2766.74] stairs -[2766.74 --> 2766.96] that -[2766.96 --> 2767.14] we -[2767.14 --> 2767.28] could -[2767.28 --> 2767.50] still -[2767.50 --> 2767.74] see -[2767.74 --> 2767.94] you -[2767.94 --> 2768.10] but -[2768.10 --> 2768.28] you -[2768.28 --> 2768.62] as -[2768.62 --> 2768.74] a -[2768.74 --> 2768.90] kid -[2768.90 --> 2769.22] couldn't -[2769.22 --> 2769.38] see -[2769.38 --> 2769.54] the -[2769.54 --> 2769.86] TV -[2769.86 --> 2770.12] that -[2770.12 --> 2770.24] was -[2770.24 --> 2770.36] in -[2770.36 --> 2770.46] the -[2770.46 --> 2770.64] living -[2770.64 --> 2770.88] room -[2770.88 --> 2772.44] and -[2772.44 --> 2772.54] then -[2772.54 --> 2772.62] you -[2772.62 --> 2772.68] would -[2772.68 --> 2772.76] have -[2772.76 --> 2772.88] to -[2772.88 --> 2773.02] sit -[2773.02 --> 2773.20] there -[2773.20 --> 2773.38] for -[2773.38 --> 2773.52] a -[2773.52 --> 2773.74] minute -[2773.74 --> 2774.14] or -[2774.14 --> 2774.44] two -[2774.44 --> 2774.70] or -[2774.70 --> 2775.18] five -[2775.18 --> 2775.56] depending -[2775.56 --> 2775.86] on -[2775.86 --> 2776.36] however -[2776.36 --> 2776.62] long -[2776.62 --> 2776.72] it -[2776.72 --> 2776.86] took -[2776.86 --> 2777.00] for -[2777.00 --> 2777.12] you -[2777.12 --> 2777.32] to -[2777.32 --> 2777.74] get -[2777.74 --> 2777.82] what -[2777.82 --> 2777.90] we -[2777.90 --> 2778.00] were -[2778.00 --> 2778.24] talking -[2778.24 --> 2778.48] about -[2778.48 --> 2779.84] and -[2779.84 --> 2779.98] then -[2779.98 --> 2780.44] after -[2780.44 --> 2780.90] you -[2780.90 --> 2781.04] had -[2781.04 --> 2781.26] sat -[2781.26 --> 2781.44] there -[2781.44 --> 2781.60] for -[2781.60 --> 2781.74] the -[2781.74 --> 2782.00] time -[2782.00 --> 2782.30] out -[2782.30 --> 2783.04] Rachel -[2783.04 --> 2783.62] or -[2783.62 --> 2783.96] I -[2783.96 --> 2784.42] would -[2784.42 --> 2784.72] go -[2784.72 --> 2785.08] over -[2785.08 --> 2785.34] and -[2785.34 --> 2785.62] talk -[2785.62 --> 2785.76] to -[2785.76 --> 2785.90] them -[2785.90 --> 2786.10] about -[2786.10 --> 2786.42] why -[2786.42 --> 2786.62] they're -[2786.62 --> 2786.84] in -[2786.84 --> 2787.12] time -[2787.12 --> 2787.42] out -[2787.42 --> 2788.34] and -[2788.34 --> 2788.46] then -[2788.46 --> 2788.58] they -[2788.58 --> 2788.68] would -[2788.68 --> 2788.78] have -[2788.78 --> 2788.90] to -[2788.90 --> 2789.04] say -[2789.04 --> 2789.48] sorry -[2789.48 --> 2790.10] and -[2790.10 --> 2790.24] we -[2790.24 --> 2790.42] would -[2790.42 --> 2790.84] remind -[2790.84 --> 2791.20] them -[2791.20 --> 2791.48] that -[2791.48 --> 2792.26] sorry -[2792.26 --> 2793.00] means -[2793.00 --> 2793.42] changing -[2793.42 --> 2793.62] your -[2793.62 --> 2794.08] behavior -[2794.08 --> 2794.96] and -[2794.96 --> 2795.18] then -[2795.18 --> 2795.36] we -[2795.36 --> 2795.48] would -[2795.48 --> 2795.68] say -[2795.68 --> 2795.80] I -[2795.80 --> 2796.02] love -[2796.02 --> 2796.32] you -[2796.32 --> 2797.34] and -[2797.34 --> 2797.46] I -[2797.46 --> 2797.68] forgive -[2797.68 --> 2798.02] you -[2798.02 --> 2800.16] well -[2800.16 --> 2801.20] one -[2801.20 --> 2801.60] time -[2801.60 --> 2802.54] that -[2802.54 --> 2802.88] beautiful -[2802.88 --> 2803.24] picture -[2803.24 --> 2803.42] of -[2803.42 --> 2803.74] parenting -[2803.74 --> 2804.00] just -[2804.00 --> 2804.26] wasn't -[2804.26 --> 2804.62] working -[2804.62 --> 2806.76] and -[2806.76 --> 2807.08] so -[2807.08 --> 2807.82] as -[2807.82 --> 2808.34] part -[2808.34 --> 2808.52] of -[2808.52 --> 2808.70] the -[2808.70 --> 2809.24] talking -[2809.24 --> 2810.36] afterwards -[2810.36 --> 2810.92] time -[2810.92 --> 2811.20] I -[2811.20 --> 2811.50] thought -[2811.50 --> 2811.66] I -[2811.66 --> 2811.80] would -[2811.80 --> 2812.14] ask -[2812.14 --> 2812.38] my -[2812.38 --> 2812.74] daughter -[2812.74 --> 2813.52] Nora -[2813.52 --> 2813.84] and -[2813.84 --> 2813.96] I -[2813.96 --> 2814.10] would -[2814.10 --> 2814.40] say -[2814.40 --> 2815.32] and -[2815.32 --> 2815.44] I -[2815.44 --> 2815.68] asked -[2815.68 --> 2815.84] her -[2815.84 --> 2816.32] why -[2816.32 --> 2816.52] do -[2816.52 --> 2816.66] you -[2816.66 --> 2816.86] think -[2816.86 --> 2817.04] we -[2817.04 --> 2817.26] have -[2817.26 --> 2817.74] rules -[2817.74 --> 2818.30] for -[2818.30 --> 2818.46] you -[2818.46 --> 2818.62] to -[2818.62 --> 2818.92] obey -[2818.92 --> 2820.16] she -[2820.16 --> 2820.38] didn't -[2820.38 --> 2820.60] really -[2820.60 --> 2820.84] know -[2820.84 --> 2821.06] she -[2821.06 --> 2821.28] was -[2821.28 --> 2821.82] five -[2821.82 --> 2821.96] or -[2821.96 --> 2822.18] six -[2822.18 --> 2822.34] years -[2822.34 --> 2822.54] old -[2822.54 --> 2822.66] at -[2822.66 --> 2823.00] time -[2823.00 --> 2824.44] but -[2824.44 --> 2825.00] I -[2825.00 --> 2825.32] told -[2825.32 --> 2825.60] her -[2825.60 --> 2825.86] that -[2825.86 --> 2826.36] we -[2826.36 --> 2826.70] have -[2826.70 --> 2827.28] rules -[2827.28 --> 2827.72] because -[2827.72 --> 2827.98] we -[2827.98 --> 2828.28] want -[2828.28 --> 2828.64] you -[2828.64 --> 2828.88] to -[2828.88 --> 2829.08] be -[2829.08 --> 2829.50] happy -[2829.50 --> 2829.80] and -[2829.80 --> 2830.28] safe -[2830.28 --> 2831.34] I -[2831.34 --> 2831.70] told -[2831.70 --> 2831.98] her -[2831.98 --> 2832.22] that -[2832.22 --> 2833.04] obedience -[2833.04 --> 2833.62] was -[2833.62 --> 2833.88] for -[2833.88 --> 2834.10] her -[2834.10 --> 2834.62] joy -[2834.62 --> 2835.06] that -[2835.06 --> 2835.40] life -[2835.40 --> 2835.60] would -[2835.60 --> 2835.76] be -[2835.76 --> 2836.08] better -[2836.08 --> 2836.30] if -[2836.30 --> 2836.46] she -[2836.46 --> 2836.74] lived -[2836.74 --> 2836.92] the -[2836.92 --> 2837.14] way -[2837.14 --> 2837.32] that -[2837.32 --> 2837.46] we -[2837.46 --> 2837.62] have -[2837.62 --> 2837.96] set -[2837.96 --> 2838.26] out -[2838.26 --> 2838.68] to -[2838.68 --> 2838.92] live -[2838.92 --> 2839.20] not -[2839.20 --> 2839.56] because -[2839.56 --> 2839.80] then -[2839.80 --> 2840.02] she -[2840.02 --> 2840.30] wouldn't -[2840.30 --> 2840.48] be -[2840.48 --> 2841.06] punished -[2841.06 --> 2841.48] but -[2841.48 --> 2841.82] because -[2841.82 --> 2842.02] in -[2842.02 --> 2842.62] obedience -[2842.62 --> 2842.90] is -[2842.90 --> 2843.18] true -[2843.18 --> 2843.70] freedom -[2843.70 --> 2844.08] right -[2844.08 --> 2844.98] obeying -[2844.98 --> 2845.46] brings -[2845.46 --> 2845.66] an -[2845.66 --> 2846.34] experience -[2846.34 --> 2846.62] of -[2846.62 --> 2847.04] joy -[2847.04 --> 2848.70] now -[2848.70 --> 2849.68] she -[2849.68 --> 2849.88] didn't -[2849.88 --> 2850.10] get -[2850.10 --> 2850.36] all -[2850.36 --> 2850.50] of -[2850.50 --> 2850.76] that -[2850.76 --> 2850.98] of -[2850.98 --> 2851.28] course -[2851.28 --> 2851.44] and -[2851.44 --> 2851.56] it's -[2851.56 --> 2851.72] not -[2851.72 --> 2851.86] that -[2851.86 --> 2852.08] she's -[2852.08 --> 2852.26] now -[2852.26 --> 2852.88] perfectly -[2852.88 --> 2853.48] obedient -[2853.48 --> 2853.86] and -[2853.86 --> 2854.46] sanctified -[2854.46 --> 2854.68] of -[2854.68 --> 2854.90] course -[2854.90 --> 2855.22] not -[2855.22 --> 2855.82] but -[2855.82 --> 2856.00] we -[2856.00 --> 2856.28] did -[2856.28 --> 2856.74] begin -[2856.74 --> 2857.04] to -[2857.04 --> 2858.08] reframe -[2858.08 --> 2858.88] obedience -[2858.88 --> 2859.08] a -[2859.08 --> 2859.24] little -[2859.24 --> 2859.56] bit -[2859.56 --> 2860.22] right -[2860.22 --> 2860.38] we -[2860.38 --> 2860.62] did -[2860.62 --> 2861.10] begin -[2861.10 --> 2861.36] to -[2861.36 --> 2861.92] connect -[2861.92 --> 2862.74] obedience -[2862.74 --> 2863.26] to -[2863.26 --> 2863.82] her -[2863.82 --> 2864.24] joy -[2864.24 --> 2865.98] but -[2865.98 --> 2866.18] even -[2866.18 --> 2866.54] more -[2866.54 --> 2866.76] than -[2866.76 --> 2867.16] that -[2867.16 --> 2868.36] as -[2868.36 --> 2868.56] her -[2868.56 --> 2869.28] parents -[2869.28 --> 2870.04] we -[2870.04 --> 2870.44] are -[2870.44 --> 2870.90] setting -[2870.90 --> 2871.18] the -[2871.18 --> 2871.72] context -[2871.72 --> 2871.92] for -[2871.92 --> 2872.08] how -[2872.08 --> 2872.36] she -[2872.36 --> 2872.62] will -[2872.62 --> 2873.28] experience -[2873.28 --> 2873.90] God -[2873.90 --> 2874.38] in -[2874.38 --> 2874.62] her -[2874.62 --> 2875.06] life -[2875.06 --> 2875.46] and -[2875.46 --> 2875.62] how -[2875.62 --> 2875.82] she -[2875.82 --> 2876.02] will -[2876.02 --> 2876.54] experience -[2876.54 --> 2876.82] his -[2876.82 --> 2877.28] call -[2877.28 --> 2877.74] to -[2877.74 --> 2878.22] holiness -[2878.22 --> 2878.58] in -[2878.58 --> 2878.80] her -[2878.80 --> 2879.22] life -[2879.22 --> 2880.82] and -[2880.82 --> 2881.10] so -[2881.10 --> 2881.48] because -[2881.48 --> 2881.96] we -[2881.96 --> 2882.18] are -[2882.18 --> 2882.72] setting -[2882.72 --> 2882.94] the -[2882.94 --> 2883.38] context -[2883.38 --> 2883.56] for -[2883.56 --> 2883.72] her -[2883.72 --> 2884.26] experience -[2884.26 --> 2884.46] of -[2884.46 --> 2884.72] God -[2884.72 --> 2884.94] it's -[2884.94 --> 2885.12] not -[2885.12 --> 2885.42] just -[2885.42 --> 2886.08] about -[2886.08 --> 2887.38] what -[2887.38 --> 2887.62] we -[2887.62 --> 2888.02] say -[2888.02 --> 2888.24] but -[2888.24 --> 2888.56] also -[2888.56 --> 2888.94] how -[2888.94 --> 2889.18] we -[2889.18 --> 2889.46] say -[2889.46 --> 2889.68] it -[2889.68 --> 2891.12] and -[2891.12 --> 2891.28] as -[2891.28 --> 2891.48] Nora -[2891.48 --> 2891.70] and I -[2891.70 --> 2892.12] talked -[2892.12 --> 2892.44] in that -[2892.44 --> 2892.68] moment -[2892.68 --> 2892.86] I -[2892.86 --> 2893.08] made -[2893.08 --> 2893.38] sure -[2893.38 --> 2893.62] to -[2893.62 --> 2894.36] get -[2894.36 --> 2894.94] down -[2894.94 --> 2895.38] right -[2895.38 --> 2895.60] in -[2895.60 --> 2895.78] front -[2895.78 --> 2895.90] of -[2895.90 --> 2896.04] her -[2896.04 --> 2896.34] on -[2896.34 --> 2896.96] my -[2896.96 --> 2897.28] knees -[2897.28 --> 2897.48] to -[2897.48 --> 2897.72] look -[2897.72 --> 2897.86] her -[2897.86 --> 2898.00] in -[2898.00 --> 2898.14] the -[2898.14 --> 2898.50] eyes -[2898.50 --> 2898.68] and -[2898.68 --> 2898.82] to -[2898.82 --> 2899.12] pour -[2899.12 --> 2899.38] as -[2899.38 --> 2899.60] much -[2899.60 --> 2900.14] love -[2900.14 --> 2900.44] and -[2900.44 --> 2900.88] joy -[2900.88 --> 2901.34] and -[2901.34 --> 2901.76] hope -[2901.76 --> 2902.10] into -[2902.10 --> 2902.36] my -[2902.36 --> 2902.58] own -[2902.58 --> 2902.92] eyes -[2902.92 --> 2903.42] even -[2903.42 --> 2903.64] through -[2903.64 --> 2903.82] my -[2903.82 --> 2903.98] own -[2903.98 --> 2904.26] tears -[2904.26 --> 2904.40] in -[2904.40 --> 2904.52] that -[2904.52 --> 2904.70] moment -[2904.70 --> 2904.96] as -[2904.96 --> 2905.08] I -[2905.08 --> 2905.28] could -[2905.28 --> 2905.68] so -[2905.68 --> 2905.84] that -[2905.84 --> 2906.12] even -[2906.12 --> 2906.46] as -[2906.46 --> 2906.60] I -[2906.60 --> 2906.72] am -[2906.72 --> 2906.98] teaching -[2906.98 --> 2907.16] her -[2907.16 --> 2907.52] even -[2907.52 --> 2907.84] as -[2907.84 --> 2908.00] she -[2908.00 --> 2908.20] is -[2908.20 --> 2908.76] denying -[2908.76 --> 2909.30] me -[2909.30 --> 2909.78] by -[2909.78 --> 2910.00] her -[2910.00 --> 2910.60] lifestyle -[2910.60 --> 2911.16] the -[2911.16 --> 2911.48] love -[2911.48 --> 2911.66] that -[2911.66 --> 2911.84] I -[2911.84 --> 2912.16] have -[2912.16 --> 2912.38] for -[2912.38 --> 2912.66] her -[2912.66 --> 2912.88] as -[2912.88 --> 2913.06] her -[2913.06 --> 2913.40] father -[2913.40 --> 2913.92] courses -[2913.92 --> 2914.30] out -[2914.30 --> 2914.46] of -[2914.46 --> 2914.66] me -[2914.66 --> 2915.02] and -[2915.02 --> 2916.06] pierces -[2916.06 --> 2916.68] into -[2916.68 --> 2916.96] her -[2916.96 --> 2917.30] heart -[2917.30 --> 2920.60] the -[2920.60 --> 2920.84] Lord -[2920.84 --> 2921.34] turned -[2921.34 --> 2922.34] and -[2922.34 --> 2922.60] looked -[2922.60 --> 2923.10] straight -[2923.10 --> 2924.24] at -[2924.24 --> 2924.54] Peter -[2924.54 --> 2926.74] he -[2926.74 --> 2927.00] loved -[2927.00 --> 2927.32] him -[2927.32 --> 2930.42] here's -[2930.42 --> 2930.54] the -[2930.54 --> 2930.80] thing -[2930.80 --> 2932.40] no -[2932.40 --> 2932.56] matter -[2932.56 --> 2932.82] how -[2932.82 --> 2933.04] many -[2933.04 --> 2933.52] times -[2933.52 --> 2933.76] you -[2933.76 --> 2933.96] have -[2933.96 --> 2934.42] denied -[2934.42 --> 2935.04] Jesus -[2935.04 --> 2937.76] he -[2937.76 --> 2938.04] loves -[2938.04 --> 2938.34] you -[2938.34 --> 2939.74] no -[2939.74 --> 2939.84] matter -[2939.84 --> 2939.98] how -[2939.98 --> 2940.12] many -[2940.12 --> 2940.50] times -[2940.50 --> 2940.68] you -[2940.68 --> 2940.86] have -[2940.86 --> 2941.70] rejected -[2941.70 --> 2942.52] Jesus -[2942.52 --> 2943.28] by grace -[2943.28 --> 2943.54] through -[2943.54 --> 2943.94] faith -[2943.94 --> 2944.48] you -[2944.48 --> 2944.78] will -[2944.78 --> 2945.12] never -[2945.12 --> 2945.56] be -[2945.56 --> 2946.20] rejected -[2946.20 --> 2947.34] if -[2947.34 --> 2947.54] you -[2947.54 --> 2947.94] believe -[2947.94 --> 2948.12] if -[2948.12 --> 2948.22] you -[2948.22 --> 2948.36] are -[2948.36 --> 2948.70] truly -[2948.70 --> 2948.88] a -[2948.88 --> 2949.24] disciple -[2949.24 --> 2949.42] of -[2949.42 --> 2949.62] Jesus -[2949.62 --> 2949.88] you -[2949.88 --> 2950.06] will -[2950.06 --> 2950.42] never -[2950.42 --> 2950.78] be -[2950.78 --> 2951.36] rejected -[2951.36 --> 2952.00] by -[2952.00 --> 2952.18] him -[2952.18 --> 2952.56] that's -[2952.56 --> 2952.74] the -[2952.74 --> 2953.22] gospel -[2953.22 --> 2954.06] that -[2954.06 --> 2954.50] Jesus -[2954.50 --> 2954.96] was -[2954.96 --> 2955.62] rejected -[2955.62 --> 2955.92] so -[2955.92 --> 2956.10] that -[2956.10 --> 2956.46] I -[2956.46 --> 2956.88] would -[2956.88 --> 2957.22] never -[2957.22 --> 2957.58] be -[2957.58 --> 2959.30] how -[2959.30 --> 2959.68] great -[2959.68 --> 2959.88] the -[2959.88 --> 2960.28] pain -[2960.28 --> 2960.48] of -[2960.48 --> 2960.96] searing -[2960.96 --> 2961.42] loss -[2961.42 --> 2961.64] the -[2961.64 --> 2962.02] father -[2962.02 --> 2962.56] turns -[2962.56 --> 2962.84] his -[2962.84 --> 2963.22] face -[2963.22 --> 2963.58] away -[2963.58 --> 2964.26] as -[2964.26 --> 2964.74] wounds -[2964.74 --> 2965.04] which -[2965.04 --> 2965.42] mar -[2965.42 --> 2965.66] the -[2965.66 --> 2966.02] chosen -[2966.02 --> 2966.42] one -[2966.42 --> 2966.78] bring -[2966.78 --> 2967.14] many -[2967.14 --> 2968.00] sons -[2968.00 --> 2969.04] glory -[2969.04 --> 2969.56] no -[2969.56 --> 2969.70] matter -[2969.70 --> 2969.94] how -[2969.94 --> 2970.18] many -[2970.18 --> 2970.68] times -[2970.68 --> 2970.88] we -[2970.88 --> 2971.00] have -[2971.00 --> 2971.36] denied -[2971.36 --> 2971.96] Jesus -[2971.96 --> 2972.26] in -[2972.26 --> 2972.42] the -[2972.42 --> 2972.86] past -[2972.86 --> 2973.10] he -[2973.10 --> 2973.30] will -[2973.30 --> 2973.74] never -[2973.74 --> 2974.30] deny -[2974.30 --> 2975.08] us -[2975.08 --> 2975.56] once -[2975.56 --> 2975.94] Jesus -[2975.94 --> 2976.34] looks -[2976.34 --> 2976.54] at -[2976.54 --> 2976.76] you -[2976.76 --> 2977.02] and -[2977.02 --> 2977.32] loves -[2977.32 --> 2977.48] you -[2977.48 --> 2977.70] once -[2977.70 --> 2977.86] he -[2977.86 --> 2978.10] gives -[2978.10 --> 2978.24] you -[2978.24 --> 2978.40] a -[2978.40 --> 2978.60] new -[2978.60 --> 2978.98] name -[2978.98 --> 2979.18] as -[2979.18 --> 2979.32] a -[2979.32 --> 2979.62] child -[2979.62 --> 2979.82] of -[2979.82 --> 2980.04] God -[2980.04 --> 2980.34] he -[2980.34 --> 2980.50] will -[2980.50 --> 2980.76] never -[2980.76 --> 2981.14] leave -[2981.14 --> 2981.36] you -[2981.36 --> 2981.76] or -[2981.76 --> 2982.20] forsake -[2982.20 --> 2982.46] you -[2982.46 --> 2983.14] if -[2983.14 --> 2983.38] you -[2983.38 --> 2983.60] are -[2983.60 --> 2984.22] faithless -[2984.22 --> 2984.48] he -[2984.48 --> 2984.94] remains -[2984.94 --> 2985.32] faithful -[2985.32 --> 2985.54] for -[2985.54 --> 2985.68] he -[2985.68 --> 2986.06] cannot -[2986.06 --> 2986.54] disown -[2986.54 --> 2987.22] himself -[2987.22 --> 2987.44] I -[2987.44 --> 2987.62] think -[2987.62 --> 2987.80] those -[2987.80 --> 2987.88] are -[2987.88 --> 2988.06] some -[2988.06 --> 2988.14] of -[2988.14 --> 2988.22] the -[2988.22 --> 2988.34] most -[2988.34 --> 2988.76] beautiful -[2988.76 --> 2989.22] words -[2989.22 --> 2989.36] in -[2989.36 --> 2989.58] all -[2989.58 --> 2989.70] of -[2989.70 --> 2989.82] the -[2997.14 --> 3000.14] now -[3000.14 --> 3000.34] remember -[3000.34 --> 3000.58] that -[3000.58 --> 3001.38] thought -[3001.38 --> 3001.62] that I -[3001.62 --> 3001.74] asked -[3001.74 --> 3001.80] you -[3001.80 --> 3001.92] to -[3001.92 --> 3002.20] park -[3002.20 --> 3002.96] for -[3002.96 --> 3003.06] a -[3003.06 --> 3003.28] moment -[3003.28 --> 3004.22] right -[3004.22 --> 3004.36] we -[3004.36 --> 3004.62] asked -[3004.62 --> 3004.80] what -[3004.80 --> 3004.96] does -[3004.96 --> 3005.10] this -[3005.10 --> 3005.28] mean -[3005.28 --> 3005.46] for -[3005.46 --> 3005.70] your -[3005.70 --> 3006.12] suffering -[3006.12 --> 3006.32] for -[3006.32 --> 3006.54] your -[3006.54 --> 3006.86] trials -[3006.86 --> 3007.04] for -[3007.04 --> 3007.26] picking -[3007.26 --> 3007.46] up -[3007.46 --> 3007.66] your -[3007.66 --> 3008.08] cross -[3008.08 --> 3008.24] right -[3008.24 --> 3008.74] if -[3008.74 --> 3009.12] your -[3009.12 --> 3009.70] obedience -[3009.70 --> 3010.00] to -[3010.00 --> 3010.12] the -[3010.12 --> 3010.30] will -[3010.30 --> 3010.48] of -[3010.48 --> 3010.76] God -[3010.76 --> 3011.18] brings -[3011.18 --> 3011.64] trial -[3011.64 --> 3011.86] and -[3011.86 --> 3012.26] hardship -[3012.26 --> 3012.54] and -[3012.54 --> 3012.84] struggle -[3012.84 --> 3013.10] you -[3013.10 --> 3013.32] can -[3013.32 --> 3013.80] proceed -[3013.80 --> 3014.24] through -[3014.24 --> 3014.48] it -[3014.48 --> 3014.94] because -[3014.94 --> 3015.10] of -[3015.10 --> 3015.24] the -[3015.24 --> 3015.50] same -[3015.50 --> 3015.86] joy -[3015.86 --> 3016.18] that's -[3016.18 --> 3016.32] set -[3016.32 --> 3016.62] before -[3016.62 --> 3016.98] you -[3016.98 --> 3017.58] right -[3017.58 --> 3017.76] let's -[3017.76 --> 3018.22] pull -[3018.22 --> 3018.36] on -[3018.36 --> 3018.52] that -[3018.52 --> 3018.84] now -[3018.84 --> 3019.78] because -[3019.78 --> 3019.96] you -[3019.96 --> 3020.24] see -[3020.24 --> 3021.64] it's -[3021.64 --> 3021.86] not -[3021.86 --> 3022.40] ultimately -[3022.40 --> 3023.02] about -[3023.02 --> 3023.68] your -[3023.68 --> 3024.34] obedience -[3024.34 --> 3025.64] it's -[3025.64 --> 3025.86] about -[3025.86 --> 3026.28] Jesus -[3026.28 --> 3026.84] who -[3026.84 --> 3027.02] was -[3027.02 --> 3027.50] obedient -[3027.50 --> 3028.44] for -[3028.44 --> 3028.70] you -[3028.70 --> 3029.10] it's -[3029.10 --> 3029.30] about -[3029.30 --> 3029.78] Jesus -[3029.78 --> 3030.30] who -[3030.30 --> 3030.50] was -[3030.50 --> 3030.94] truly -[3030.94 --> 3031.46] rejected -[3031.46 --> 3031.70] so -[3031.70 --> 3031.84] that -[3031.84 --> 3032.02] we -[3032.02 --> 3032.48] never -[3032.48 --> 3032.96] would -[3032.96 --> 3033.16] be -[3033.16 --> 3033.38] it's -[3033.38 --> 3033.60] about -[3033.60 --> 3034.02] Jesus -[3034.02 --> 3034.40] who -[3034.40 --> 3035.00] though -[3035.00 --> 3035.52] we -[3035.52 --> 3035.82] are -[3035.82 --> 3036.32] hapless -[3036.32 --> 3036.68] and -[3036.68 --> 3037.08] helpless -[3037.08 --> 3037.72] makes -[3037.72 --> 3037.98] us -[3037.98 --> 3038.52] hopeful -[3038.52 --> 3039.08] because -[3039.08 --> 3039.46] he -[3039.46 --> 3040.04] accomplished -[3040.04 --> 3040.32] what -[3040.32 --> 3040.58] we -[3040.58 --> 3041.82] couldn't -[3041.82 --> 3042.08] and -[3042.08 --> 3042.46] so -[3042.46 --> 3043.30] now -[3043.30 --> 3043.94] as -[3043.94 --> 3044.22] you -[3044.22 --> 3044.62] live -[3044.62 --> 3044.86] for -[3044.86 --> 3045.12] him -[3045.12 --> 3045.40] as -[3045.40 --> 3045.56] you -[3045.56 --> 3046.02] live -[3046.02 --> 3046.28] out -[3046.28 --> 3046.42] of -[3046.42 --> 3046.96] obedience -[3046.96 --> 3047.40] gained -[3047.40 --> 3047.80] because -[3047.80 --> 3047.98] of -[3047.98 --> 3048.14] him -[3048.14 --> 3048.26] and -[3048.26 --> 3048.70] obedience -[3048.70 --> 3049.36] strived -[3049.36 --> 3049.72] for -[3049.72 --> 3050.60] strived -[3050.60 --> 3050.86] after -[3050.86 --> 3051.26] for -[3051.26 --> 3051.48] him -[3051.48 --> 3052.04] you -[3052.04 --> 3052.62] too -[3052.62 --> 3053.20] we -[3053.20 --> 3053.78] all -[3053.78 --> 3054.14] in -[3054.14 --> 3054.28] the -[3054.28 --> 3054.48] midst -[3054.48 --> 3054.62] of -[3054.62 --> 3054.96] trial -[3054.96 --> 3055.20] and -[3055.20 --> 3055.54] struggle -[3055.54 --> 3055.72] in -[3055.72 --> 3055.88] the -[3055.88 --> 3056.12] midst -[3056.12 --> 3056.32] of -[3056.32 --> 3056.56] whatever -[3056.56 --> 3057.08] cross -[3057.08 --> 3057.30] that -[3057.30 --> 3057.42] we -[3057.42 --> 3057.56] are -[3057.56 --> 3057.90] called -[3057.90 --> 3058.18] to -[3058.18 --> 3058.54] bear -[3058.54 --> 3059.06] you -[3059.06 --> 3059.30] can -[3059.30 --> 3059.72] endure -[3059.72 --> 3060.00] for -[3060.00 --> 3060.18] the -[3060.18 --> 3060.56] joy -[3060.56 --> 3061.10] set -[3061.10 --> 3061.58] before -[3061.58 --> 3062.34] you -[3062.34 --> 3062.82] and -[3062.82 --> 3063.02] that -[3063.02 --> 3063.50] joy -[3063.50 --> 3063.82] is -[3063.82 --> 3064.38] Jesus -[3064.38 --> 3065.22] life -[3065.22 --> 3065.86] lived -[3065.86 --> 3066.62] with -[3066.62 --> 3067.44] him -[3067.44 --> 3069.96] the -[3069.96 --> 3070.20] joy -[3070.20 --> 3070.42] is -[3070.42 --> 3071.00] Jesus -[3071.00 --> 3072.42] who -[3072.42 --> 3073.22] understands -[3073.22 --> 3074.00] your -[3074.00 --> 3074.58] rejection -[3074.58 --> 3076.38] Jesus -[3076.38 --> 3076.64] who -[3076.64 --> 3077.20] knows -[3077.20 --> 3077.74] your -[3077.74 --> 3078.20] pain -[3078.20 --> 3078.96] Jesus -[3078.96 --> 3079.28] who -[3079.28 --> 3079.66] knows -[3079.66 --> 3079.84] your -[3079.84 --> 3080.26] trial -[3080.26 --> 3080.64] Jesus -[3080.64 --> 3080.92] who -[3080.92 --> 3081.34] knows -[3081.34 --> 3081.52] your -[3081.52 --> 3082.06] temptation -[3082.06 --> 3082.76] Jesus -[3082.76 --> 3083.04] who -[3083.04 --> 3083.30] has -[3083.30 --> 3084.00] won -[3084.00 --> 3084.24] the -[3084.24 --> 3084.62] victory -[3084.62 --> 3084.90] and -[3084.90 --> 3085.18] now -[3085.18 --> 3085.52] gives -[3085.52 --> 3086.00] you -[3086.00 --> 3086.88] victory -[3086.88 --> 3088.30] I -[3088.30 --> 3088.52] am -[3088.52 --> 3088.84] Peter -[3088.84 --> 3090.36] you -[3090.36 --> 3090.58] are -[3090.58 --> 3090.92] Peter -[3090.92 --> 3092.06] Peter's -[3092.06 --> 3092.60] story -[3092.60 --> 3093.06] is -[3093.06 --> 3093.80] my -[3093.80 --> 3094.28] story -[3094.28 --> 3094.68] Peter's -[3094.68 --> 3094.92] story -[3094.92 --> 3095.10] is -[3095.10 --> 3095.72] our -[3095.72 --> 3096.32] story -[3096.32 --> 3096.72] and -[3096.72 --> 3096.98] that -[3096.98 --> 3097.48] means -[3097.48 --> 3098.16] that -[3098.16 --> 3098.54] means -[3098.54 --> 3098.76] that -[3098.76 --> 3099.20] maybe -[3099.20 --> 3099.76] the -[3099.76 --> 3100.42] purpose -[3100.42 --> 3100.72] of -[3100.72 --> 3101.22] Peter's -[3101.22 --> 3101.88] story -[3101.88 --> 3102.16] can -[3102.16 --> 3102.46] also -[3102.46 --> 3102.70] be -[3102.70 --> 3102.90] the -[3102.90 --> 3103.42] purpose -[3103.42 --> 3103.72] of -[3103.72 --> 3104.88] our -[3104.88 --> 3105.86] story -[3105.86 --> 3108.26] since -[3108.26 --> 3108.62] God -[3108.62 --> 3109.06] used -[3109.06 --> 3109.80] Peter's -[3109.80 --> 3110.64] story -[3110.64 --> 3110.96] he's -[3110.96 --> 3111.20] using -[3111.20 --> 3111.38] it -[3111.38 --> 3111.60] right -[3111.60 --> 3111.96] now -[3111.96 --> 3112.44] he -[3112.44 --> 3112.64] can -[3112.64 --> 3113.00] also -[3113.00 --> 3113.46] use -[3113.46 --> 3113.98] your -[3113.98 --> 3115.14] story -[3115.14 --> 3117.14] we -[3117.14 --> 3117.32] didn't -[3117.32 --> 3117.52] read -[3117.52 --> 3117.72] it -[3117.72 --> 3118.64] but I -[3118.64 --> 3118.98] mentioned -[3118.98 --> 3119.30] the -[3119.30 --> 3119.84] timeline -[3119.84 --> 3120.24] and -[3120.24 --> 3120.48] Jesus -[3120.48 --> 3121.06] prediction -[3121.06 --> 3121.80] that -[3121.80 --> 3122.04] Peter -[3122.04 --> 3122.24] would -[3122.24 --> 3122.54] deny -[3122.54 --> 3122.78] him -[3122.78 --> 3123.78] you -[3123.78 --> 3123.90] have -[3123.90 --> 3124.02] your -[3124.02 --> 3124.34] Bibles -[3124.34 --> 3124.56] you -[3124.56 --> 3124.68] can -[3124.68 --> 3124.86] see -[3124.86 --> 3124.98] it -[3124.98 --> 3125.10] in -[3125.10 --> 3125.32] verse -[3125.32 --> 3126.42] 32 -[3126.42 --> 3126.78] there -[3126.78 --> 3127.80] notice -[3127.80 --> 3128.00] what -[3128.00 --> 3128.22] Jesus -[3128.22 --> 3128.60] says -[3128.60 --> 3128.80] to -[3128.80 --> 3129.08] Peter -[3129.08 --> 3129.68] what -[3129.68 --> 3129.92] Jesus -[3129.92 --> 3130.18] is -[3130.18 --> 3130.44] saying -[3130.44 --> 3130.64] to -[3130.64 --> 3130.98] you -[3130.98 --> 3131.54] now -[3131.54 --> 3133.00] I -[3133.00 --> 3133.22] have -[3133.22 --> 3133.54] prayed -[3133.54 --> 3133.80] for -[3133.80 --> 3134.14] you -[3134.14 --> 3134.82] Simon -[3134.82 --> 3135.90] that -[3135.90 --> 3136.08] your -[3136.08 --> 3136.50] faith -[3136.50 --> 3136.80] may -[3136.80 --> 3137.18] not -[3137.18 --> 3137.74] fail -[3137.74 --> 3139.42] and -[3139.42 --> 3139.68] when -[3139.68 --> 3139.88] you -[3139.88 --> 3140.10] have -[3140.10 --> 3140.50] turned -[3140.50 --> 3141.10] back -[3141.10 --> 3142.70] strengthen -[3142.70 --> 3144.04] your -[3144.04 --> 3144.48] brothers -[3144.48 --> 3147.24] Jesus -[3147.24 --> 3148.02] is -[3148.02 --> 3148.50] on -[3148.50 --> 3149.22] Peter's -[3149.22 --> 3150.30] side -[3150.30 --> 3151.14] he -[3151.14 --> 3151.52] prayed -[3151.52 --> 3151.80] for -[3151.80 --> 3152.04] him -[3152.04 --> 3153.30] Jesus -[3153.30 --> 3153.66] is -[3153.66 --> 3153.88] on -[3153.88 --> 3154.42] your -[3154.42 --> 3154.86] side -[3154.86 --> 3155.12] he's -[3155.12 --> 3156.04] interceding -[3156.04 --> 3156.22] for -[3156.22 --> 3156.42] you -[3156.42 --> 3156.80] even -[3156.80 --> 3157.16] now -[3157.16 --> 3157.82] Jesus -[3157.82 --> 3158.38] knew -[3158.38 --> 3158.74] that -[3158.74 --> 3159.14] Peter -[3159.14 --> 3159.58] would -[3159.58 --> 3160.04] fail -[3160.04 --> 3160.52] Jesus -[3160.52 --> 3160.90] knew -[3160.90 --> 3161.12] that -[3161.12 --> 3161.46] Peter -[3161.46 --> 3161.90] would -[3161.90 --> 3162.26] deny -[3162.26 --> 3162.52] him -[3162.52 --> 3162.88] Jesus -[3162.88 --> 3163.40] knows -[3163.40 --> 3163.64] that -[3163.64 --> 3163.94] you -[3163.94 --> 3164.42] will -[3164.42 --> 3164.84] fail -[3164.84 --> 3165.16] Jesus -[3165.16 --> 3165.56] knows -[3165.56 --> 3165.76] that -[3165.76 --> 3166.08] you -[3166.08 --> 3166.54] will -[3166.54 --> 3166.90] deny -[3166.90 --> 3167.18] him -[3167.18 --> 3167.74] but -[3167.74 --> 3168.32] when -[3168.32 --> 3168.58] you -[3168.58 --> 3168.92] have -[3168.92 --> 3169.30] turned -[3169.30 --> 3169.86] back -[3169.86 --> 3170.82] strengthen -[3170.82 --> 3171.54] your -[3171.54 --> 3171.92] brothers -[3171.92 --> 3172.48] and -[3172.48 --> 3172.86] sisters -[3172.86 --> 3173.38] when -[3173.38 --> 3173.60] you -[3173.60 --> 3173.76] are -[3173.76 --> 3174.38] restored -[3174.38 --> 3174.86] use -[3174.86 --> 3175.00] it -[3175.00 --> 3175.18] to -[3175.18 --> 3175.74] restore -[3175.74 --> 3176.34] others -[3176.34 --> 3176.64] when -[3176.64 --> 3176.84] you -[3176.84 --> 3177.12] see -[3177.12 --> 3177.36] my -[3177.36 --> 3177.74] love -[3177.74 --> 3178.08] use -[3178.08 --> 3178.22] it -[3178.22 --> 3178.40] to -[3178.40 --> 3178.68] love -[3178.68 --> 3179.28] others -[3179.28 --> 3179.58] when -[3179.58 --> 3179.76] you -[3179.76 --> 3179.92] are -[3179.92 --> 3180.32] forgiven -[3180.32 --> 3180.72] use -[3180.72 --> 3180.86] it -[3180.86 --> 3181.02] to -[3181.02 --> 3181.58] forgive -[3181.58 --> 3182.20] others -[3182.20 --> 3182.50] when -[3182.50 --> 3182.68] you -[3182.68 --> 3182.84] are -[3182.84 --> 3183.20] healed -[3183.20 --> 3183.52] use -[3183.52 --> 3183.64] it -[3183.64 --> 3183.78] to -[3183.78 --> 3184.06] heal -[3184.06 --> 3184.62] others -[3184.62 --> 3184.90] when -[3184.90 --> 3185.10] you -[3185.10 --> 3185.46] find -[3185.46 --> 3185.84] me -[3185.84 --> 3186.42] use -[3186.42 --> 3186.54] it -[3186.54 --> 3186.74] to -[3186.74 --> 3187.16] lead -[3190.90 --> 3191.36] your -[3191.36 --> 3192.02] stories -[3192.02 --> 3192.54] of -[3192.54 --> 3193.06] denial -[3193.06 --> 3193.70] and -[3193.70 --> 3194.46] restoration -[3194.46 --> 3195.16] can -[3195.16 --> 3195.56] change -[3195.56 --> 3196.06] lives -[3196.06 --> 3197.36] your -[3197.36 --> 3197.98] stories -[3197.98 --> 3198.18] of -[3198.18 --> 3198.66] rejecting -[3198.66 --> 3199.28] Jesus -[3199.28 --> 3199.54] and -[3199.54 --> 3199.86] finding -[3199.86 --> 3200.14] his -[3200.14 --> 3200.42] love -[3200.42 --> 3200.72] again -[3200.72 --> 3201.12] can -[3201.12 --> 3201.58] save -[3201.58 --> 3202.10] lives -[3202.10 --> 3204.00] I -[3204.00 --> 3204.24] once -[3204.24 --> 3204.46] was -[3204.46 --> 3204.90] lost -[3204.90 --> 3205.16] but -[3205.16 --> 3205.44] now -[3205.44 --> 3205.66] am -[3205.66 --> 3205.98] found -[3205.98 --> 3206.16] I -[3206.16 --> 3206.42] once -[3206.42 --> 3206.66] was -[3206.66 --> 3207.10] blind -[3207.10 --> 3207.32] but -[3207.32 --> 3207.60] now -[3207.60 --> 3207.84] I -[3207.84 --> 3208.08] see -[3208.08 --> 3208.68] your -[3208.68 --> 3209.34] stories -[3209.34 --> 3209.54] of -[3209.54 --> 3209.74] being -[3209.74 --> 3210.22] moved -[3210.22 --> 3210.48] from -[3210.48 --> 3211.04] darkness -[3211.04 --> 3211.86] into -[3211.86 --> 3212.28] light -[3212.28 --> 3212.96] brings -[3212.96 --> 3213.52] others -[3213.52 --> 3214.20] into -[3214.20 --> 3215.12] light -[3215.12 --> 3215.90] your -[3215.90 --> 3216.58] stories -[3216.58 --> 3216.82] of -[3216.82 --> 3217.62] marriages -[3217.62 --> 3218.10] worked -[3218.10 --> 3218.34] on -[3218.34 --> 3218.56] and -[3218.56 --> 3218.92] healed -[3218.92 --> 3219.68] inspire -[3219.68 --> 3220.32] others -[3220.32 --> 3220.78] to -[3220.78 --> 3221.08] work -[3221.08 --> 3221.32] on -[3221.32 --> 3221.46] and -[3221.46 --> 3221.60] to -[3221.60 --> 3221.98] heal -[3221.98 --> 3222.46] their -[3222.46 --> 3222.90] marriages -[3222.90 --> 3223.44] your -[3223.44 --> 3224.02] stories -[3224.02 --> 3224.24] of -[3224.24 --> 3224.72] addictions -[3224.72 --> 3225.42] overcome -[3225.42 --> 3226.08] strengthen -[3226.08 --> 3226.88] others -[3226.88 --> 3227.50] in their -[3227.50 --> 3227.88] journey -[3227.88 --> 3228.24] to -[3228.24 --> 3228.64] overcome -[3228.64 --> 3228.98] your -[3228.98 --> 3229.50] story -[3229.50 --> 3229.72] of -[3229.72 --> 3230.02] faith -[3230.02 --> 3230.84] transformed -[3230.84 --> 3231.10] and -[3231.10 --> 3231.44] grown -[3231.44 --> 3231.98] leads -[3231.98 --> 3232.46] others -[3232.46 --> 3233.04] to be -[3233.04 --> 3233.60] transformed -[3233.60 --> 3233.88] and -[3233.88 --> 3234.24] grown -[3234.24 --> 3236.46] the -[3236.46 --> 3236.76] story -[3236.76 --> 3237.32] matters -[3237.32 --> 3239.64] and the -[3239.64 --> 3239.82] story -[3239.82 --> 3240.20] matters -[3240.20 --> 3240.66] because -[3240.66 --> 3241.64] through -[3241.64 --> 3242.26] the right -[3242.26 --> 3242.92] lens -[3242.92 --> 3243.48] it is -[3243.48 --> 3244.44] the gospel -[3244.44 --> 3245.10] story -[3245.10 --> 3246.28] first revealed -[3246.28 --> 3247.36] in Jesus -[3247.36 --> 3248.28] once again -[3248.28 --> 3249.30] enfleshed -[3249.30 --> 3249.56] in -[3249.56 --> 3250.06] your -[3250.06 --> 3251.06] life -[3251.06 --> 3253.50] God -[3253.50 --> 3254.00] himself -[3254.00 --> 3255.08] the -[3255.08 --> 3255.42] eternal -[3255.42 --> 3255.82] second -[3255.82 --> 3256.26] person -[3256.26 --> 3256.52] of the -[3256.52 --> 3256.76] trinity -[3256.76 --> 3257.16] took -[3257.16 --> 3257.44] on -[3257.44 --> 3258.00] flesh -[3258.00 --> 3258.56] in -[3258.56 --> 3258.88] Jesus -[3258.88 --> 3259.14] and -[3259.14 --> 3259.34] was -[3259.34 --> 3260.08] despised -[3260.08 --> 3260.28] and -[3260.28 --> 3260.74] rejected -[3260.74 --> 3260.98] by -[3260.98 --> 3262.90] you -[3262.90 --> 3264.98] and -[3264.98 --> 3265.24] your -[3265.24 --> 3265.90] stories -[3265.90 --> 3267.24] can -[3267.24 --> 3267.90] incarnate -[3267.90 --> 3268.12] the -[3268.12 --> 3268.64] gospel -[3268.64 --> 3269.52] message -[3269.52 --> 3270.12] in how -[3270.12 --> 3270.70] you live -[3270.70 --> 3271.16] your -[3271.16 --> 3272.00] life -[3272.00 --> 3273.46] so tell -[3273.46 --> 3274.04] your story -[3274.04 --> 3275.28] tell the -[3275.28 --> 3275.72] story of -[3275.72 --> 3275.92] God -[3275.92 --> 3276.54] in you -[3276.54 --> 3277.18] and with -[3277.18 --> 3277.32] you -[3277.32 --> 3277.70] tell the -[3277.70 --> 3278.10] story of -[3278.10 --> 3278.34] Jesus -[3278.34 --> 3279.08] restoring -[3279.08 --> 3279.38] you -[3279.38 --> 3279.98] tell the -[3279.98 --> 3280.38] story -[3280.38 --> 3280.58] to -[3280.58 --> 3280.76] your -[3280.76 --> 3281.12] neighbors -[3281.12 --> 3281.40] and to -[3281.40 --> 3281.58] your -[3281.58 --> 3282.02] colleagues -[3282.02 --> 3282.30] and to -[3282.30 --> 3282.46] your -[3282.46 --> 3282.86] kids -[3282.86 --> 3284.34] if you -[3284.34 --> 3284.90] are in -[3284.90 --> 3285.26] small -[3285.26 --> 3285.56] groups -[3285.56 --> 3285.76] here -[3285.76 --> 3286.06] care -[3286.06 --> 3286.36] groups -[3286.36 --> 3286.66] or whatever -[3286.66 --> 3287.20] other small -[3287.20 --> 3287.62] group at -[3287.62 --> 3288.24] Emmanuel you -[3288.24 --> 3288.56] might be -[3288.56 --> 3289.38] in spend -[3289.38 --> 3289.90] a few -[3289.90 --> 3290.70] weeks telling -[3290.70 --> 3291.38] your faith -[3291.38 --> 3292.08] stories to -[3292.08 --> 3292.56] each other -[3292.56 --> 3293.50] and how -[3293.50 --> 3293.90] have you -[3293.90 --> 3294.70] seen God -[3294.70 --> 3295.60] at work -[3295.60 --> 3296.04] in your -[3296.04 --> 3296.66] life during -[3296.66 --> 3297.36] this season -[3297.36 --> 3298.24] telling the -[3298.24 --> 3298.94] story of -[3298.94 --> 3299.96] tell the story -[3299.96 --> 3300.22] of your -[3300.22 --> 3301.10] faith and -[3301.10 --> 3301.52] the story -[3301.52 --> 3301.76] of your -[3301.76 --> 3302.04] journey -[3302.04 --> 3302.76] with Jesus -[3302.76 --> 3304.66] listen to -[3304.66 --> 3305.42] the kids -[3305.42 --> 3305.96] and the young -[3305.96 --> 3306.50] people who are -[3306.50 --> 3306.96] telling their -[3306.96 --> 3307.70] stories over on -[3307.70 --> 3308.18] real talk -[3308.18 --> 3308.58] with Pastor -[3308.58 --> 3308.94] Kevin -[3308.94 --> 3310.04] tell the -[3310.04 --> 3310.60] story of -[3310.60 --> 3311.26] Jesus the -[3311.26 --> 3311.68] rejected -[3311.68 --> 3312.70] and watch -[3312.70 --> 3313.54] as God -[3313.54 --> 3314.48] gets all -[3314.48 --> 3315.06] the glory -[3315.06 --> 3316.58] and as God -[3316.58 --> 3317.86] gets all -[3317.86 --> 3318.44] the glory -[3318.44 --> 3319.44] your joy -[3319.44 --> 3320.54] will be -[3320.54 --> 3321.18] filled -[3321.18 --> 3323.80] it was for -[3323.80 --> 3324.20] the joy -[3324.20 --> 3325.02] set before -[3325.02 --> 3325.52] him that -[3325.52 --> 3325.98] Jesus -[3325.98 --> 3326.76] endured -[3326.76 --> 3327.90] the cross -[3327.90 --> 3329.28] you -[3329.28 --> 3331.44] you are -[3331.44 --> 3332.10] the joy -[3332.10 --> 3332.80] of Jesus -[3332.80 --> 3333.60] as God -[3333.60 --> 3334.76] is glorified -[3334.76 --> 3335.86] in your -[3335.86 --> 3336.54] story -[3336.54 --> 3337.40] and through -[3337.40 --> 3337.78] you -[3337.78 --> 3338.58] and by -[3338.58 --> 3338.92] you -[3338.92 --> 3340.40] this -[3340.40 --> 3341.32] the power -[3341.32 --> 3342.48] of the -[3342.48 --> 3342.92] cross -[3342.92 --> 3343.96] that Christ -[3343.96 --> 3345.22] became sin -[3345.22 --> 3346.14] for us -[3346.14 --> 3346.92] took the -[3346.92 --> 3347.32] blame -[3347.32 --> 3348.06] bore the -[3348.06 --> 3348.46] wrath -[3348.46 --> 3349.32] we -[3349.32 --> 3350.46] stand -[3350.46 --> 3351.34] forgiven -[3351.34 --> 3353.02] at -[3353.02 --> 3354.18] the cross -[3354.18 --> 3355.92] amen -[3355.92 --> 3358.02] amen -[3358.12 --> 3364.88] in -[3364.88 --> 3375.22] most -[3375.22 --> 3376.00] in -[3376.00 --> 3376.48] could -[3376.54 --> 3383.80] act -[3383.80 --> 3385.42] it -[3385.42 --> 3406.26] Oh, to see the dawn of the darkest day -[3406.26 --> 3413.34] Christ on the road to Galilee -[3413.34 --> 3418.68] Tried by sinful men -[3418.68 --> 3422.34] Torn and beaten men -[3423.06 --> 3428.34] Veiled to a cross above -[3428.34 --> 3438.48] This the power of the cross -[3438.48 --> 3446.82] Christ became sin for us -[3446.82 --> 3450.48] Took the blame -[3451.04 --> 3455.48] For the rank we stand -[3455.48 --> 3460.82] Forgiven at the cross -[3460.82 --> 3479.16] Oh, to see the pain -[3479.16 --> 3484.08] Written on your face -[3484.08 --> 3492.16] Bearing the awesome weight of sin -[3492.16 --> 3496.50] Every bitter thought -[3496.50 --> 3500.84] Every evil deed -[3500.84 --> 3504.84] Crowding your blood -[3504.84 --> 3507.50] Stained proud -[3507.50 --> 3516.84] Is the power of the cross -[3516.84 --> 3525.84] Christ became sin for us -[3525.84 --> 3531.18] Took the blame -[3531.18 --> 3535.98] For the rank we stand -[3535.98 --> 3541.18] Forgiven at the cross -[3541.18 --> 3546.52] Now the daylight gleams -[3546.52 --> 3552.52] Now the ground beneath -[3552.52 --> 3558.52] Quakes as its pain -[3558.52 --> 3571.86] Quakes as its pain -[3571.86 --> 3574.86] Quakes as its pain -[3574.86 --> 3580.20] Curtain torn in two -[3580.20 --> 3586.20] Dead or raised to the light -[3586.20 --> 3592.20] Finish the victory cry -[3592.20 --> 3603.54] Christ is the power of the cross -[3603.54 --> 3604.88] Christ became sin for us -[3604.88 --> 3609.88] Christ became sin for us -[3609.88 --> 3611.22] In war -[3611.22 --> 3614.22] To the grave -[3614.22 --> 3618.22] To the grave -[3618.22 --> 3623.22] For the rank we stand -[3623.22 --> 3628.22] Forgiven at the cross -[3628.22 --> 3651.56] O to see my name -[3651.56 --> 3656.56] Written in the wounds -[3656.56 --> 3661.90] For through your suffering -[3661.90 --> 3666.50] I am free -[3666.50 --> 3672.42] Death is crushed to death -[3672.42 --> 3677.48] Life is mine to live -[3677.48 --> 3682.30] Run through your sadness -[3682.30 --> 3686.24] It's the power of the cross -[3686.24 --> 3696.24] It's the power of the cross -[3696.24 --> 3701.24] Christ be God -[3701.24 --> 3707.24] Safe for us -[3707.24 --> 3713.18] What a love -[3713.18 --> 3714.18] What a love -[3714.18 --> 3716.44] What a cost -[3716.44 --> 3718.18] We stand -[3718.18 --> 3724.22] Forgiven at the cross -[3724.22 --> 3734.08] I am free -[3734.08 --> 3735.50] customer -[3735.50 --> 3737.16] Jesse -[3737.16 --> 3738.18] It's the power of the cross -[3738.18 --> 3739.16] Their dalüp -[3739.16 --> 3739.66] aus dung -[3739.66 --> 3740.02] The 不是 -[3740.02 --> 3740.62] à Moderat -[3740.62 --> 3753.98] Of으� -[3753.98 --> 3783.96] Thank you. -[3783.98 --> 3813.96] Thank you. -[3813.98 --> 3821.36] The Father turns His face away -[3821.36 --> 3827.90] As moons which are the chosen one -[3827.90 --> 3833.30] With many sons to glory -[3833.30 --> 3851.42] Behold the man upon a cross -[3851.42 --> 3857.30] I see upon His shoulders -[3857.30 --> 3864.60] Ashamed I hear my mocking voice -[3864.60 --> 3870.74] Fall out on the scoffers -[3870.74 --> 3877.08] He was the sin that held Him there -[3877.08 --> 3882.74] Until it was accomplished -[3882.74 --> 3890.26] His time has brought me life -[3890.26 --> 3895.84] I know that it is finished -[3895.84 --> 3913.22] I will not boast in anything -[3913.22 --> 3919.40] No gifts, no power, no wisdom -[3919.40 --> 3927.14] But I will boast in Jesus Christ -[3927.14 --> 3932.48] His death and resurrection -[3932.48 --> 3939.86] Why should I gain from His reward -[3939.86 --> 3946.20] I cannot give an answer -[3946.20 --> 3953.58] But this I know with all my heart -[3953.58 --> 3958.72] His wounds have paid my grandson -[3958.72 --> 3965.88] Why should I gain from His reward -[3965.88 --> 3972.66] I cannot give an answer -[3972.66 --> 3980.96] But this I know with all my heart -[3980.96 --> 3987.46] These wounds have made my last song -[3995.88 --> 4008.62] It was now about noon. -[4009.76 --> 4014.30] Darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon. -[4015.58 --> 4017.94] The sun stopped shining. -[4018.82 --> 4021.14] And the curtain in the temple was torn in two. -[4021.54 --> 4023.44] And Jesus called out in a loud voice, -[4023.44 --> 4027.32] Father, into your hands I commit my spirit. -[4028.44 --> 4032.32] And when he had said this, he breathed his last. diff --git a/Good Friday, March 29, 2024_summary.txt b/Good Friday, March 29, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 89ae11f946aa34e9a5bf96d93e4ddca10ba9123b..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Good Friday, March 29, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,96 +0,0 @@ -• The leader plans to worship differently tonight, rehearsing the drama of scripture -• The focus will be on Jesus' death and how it is the death of God -• The congregation will read Matthew 27:45-56 together throughout the service -• The aim is for attendees to leave unsatisfied, with the story continuing Sunday -• The leader invites them to "live in Friday" before Sunday's resurrection -• The speaker describes Jesus' death as a cosmic event that affects all of creation -• The world's best religion (Judaism) and government (Roman Empire) combined to kill Jesus -• Jesus' death is not just about salvation for sinners, but has far-reaching consequences for the entire universe -• All of creation groans, mourns, and waits for what comes next after Jesus' death -• Jesus' last words are a question ("Why have you forsaken me?") rather than a declaration or command -• Jesus's experience in the Garden of Gethsemane -• The concept of spiritual pain and relational pain on the cross -• Comparison to personal experiences of loss, abandonment, and loneliness -• Allusion to Jesus experiencing hell in his crucifixion -• Reference to 2nd Corinthians 5, stating God made Jesus sinless to bear sin for us -• The meaning of Jesus' cry "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" -• The concept that Jesus, being sinless, did not deserve to be abandoned by God -• The idea that sin is essentially rejecting God's presence and love -• The significance of Jesus experiencing the full effect of rejection on the cross -• The theme of God's wrath and curse for sin, which Jesus bore -• Jesus' descent into hell -• The sword going all the way into the sheath, referring to Jesus' crucifixion -• The concept of hell and its implications -• The idea that we should stand in silence before the verb and wonder what it means -• The experience of abandonment by God (Psalm 22) -• Friday and hopes for Sunday and the people gathered around the cross -• Misinterpretation of Jesus' cry as a call to Elijah, and scoffing at Jesus -• People took a passage from scripture as a marker for the Messiah's coming -• They used Elijah's reappearance before the Messiah as a sign to be watched -• Jesus was mocked and ridiculed, with some saying Elijah would save him -• Many people missed the transfiguration of Jesus with Moses and Elijah -• The connection between John the Baptist and Jesus as prophets was not made -• People were fixated on physical realities rather than spiritual ones -• The limitations of perceiving reality through physical senses -• The impact of fixation on physical realities and feelings of pain -• Overcoming emotional blind spots to access spiritual truth -• Understanding the role of doctrine, hurt, and hardship in shaping perception -• The invitation to see the world through a spiritual lens, specifically that of Jesus Christ -• The importance of seeing Jesus in one's deepest fears and anxieties -• Recognizing the presence of Jesus in moments of personal struggles and hell -• The significance of saying "yes" to God, despite difficult circumstances (Friday) knowing that Sunday (victory and resurrection) is coming -• Acknowledging those who have missed or been absent from faith and the opportunity for them to reconnect -• Emphasizing the importance of attending church and spiritual practices throughout one's life -• Coming to church for one's entire life -• Possibility that heart is not converted to Christ yet -• Need to hear the message and convert -• Laissez-faire attitude towards sin in one's life -• Sin and its persistence in one's life -• First time attending church in years or ever listening at church -• Jesus is standing at the door of your heart and knocking -• He's asking if you'll see him, let him in, and be your Messiah, King, and Savior -• Jesus loves all people, even those who may have missed seeing God's love through his life on earth -• A Roman centurion saw Jesus and understood the significance of what he did, unlike the disciples or religious officials -• Roman soldier's testimony about Jesus -• John Calvin's commentary on the story of Jesus -• Comparison of the soldier's judgment to that of others who witnessed Jesus' death and resurrection -• Criticism of those who failed to understand the significance of Jesus' actions -• Explanation of the tearing of the temple curtain in two during Jesus' crucifixion -• The end of sacrifice and need for it -• Access to God through Jesus' sacrifice -• Jesus' resurrection and its effects on people in tombs -• Isaiah's prophecy about mountains and hills breaking forth before people -• Holy people being raised from the dead after Jesus' resurrection -• The Greek grammar of a sentence is clarified to show that Jesus and the apostles emerged from tombs after his resurrection -• Matthew's account parallels Paul's statement in 1 Corinthians 15:20 about Jesus as the firstfruits of the resurrection -• This point connects back to a prophecy in Daniel 12:2 about multitudes being awakened at the Messiah's coming -• Isaiah 53 describes the suffering and rejection of the Messiah, emphasizing his despised and lowly status -• The verse says "surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering" -• Punishment and suffering of Christ -• Healing through Christ's wounds -• Centurion's recognition of Christ as the Son of God -• Death and burial of Christ -• Reflection on the meaning and significance of Christ's sacrifice -• Request to stand and prepare for a story -• Instructions on how to take a prayerful posture and listen -• Explanation of the worship team's plan to lead into silence and song -• Description of the setting: from noon until three in the afternoon, darkness falls -• Jesus' cry out to God during this time -• Jesus' cry for Elijah -• Anointing of a sponge with wine and vinegar offered to Jesus -• Jesus' death and crucifixion -• The curtain of the temple torn at the moment of Jesus' death -• Earthquake and natural phenomenon at Jesus' death -• Resurrection of holy people from tombs, appearing in the city -• Description of the guards at Jesus' tomb witnessing an earthquake -• Women watching from a distance as Jesus was taken care of by followers -• Mary Magdalene and other women were among those caring for Jesus' needs -• The gospel account of Jesus' crucifixion and emotions in the Garden of Gethsemane -• Reflections on the Savior's pain and sacrifice, including His words from the cross -• Expressions of awe and reverence for God's love and forgiveness -• Expressions of hope and trust in God -• Desires for comfort, guidance, and rebirth through suffering and resurrection -• Requests for knowledge and understanding -• Acknowledgment of God's presence in all aspects of life -• Reflections on humility and the true nature of God -• References to Jesus Christ \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Good Friday, March 29, 2024_transcript.txt b/Good Friday, March 29, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2570f48238afc8706c46b8264a364a1bc8cb64a4..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Good Friday, March 29, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2294 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 599.98] Thank you. -[600.00 --> 629.98] Thank you. -[630.02 --> 659.98] Thank you. -[659.98 --> 689.96] Thank you. -[690.00 --> 719.96] Thank you. -[719.96 --> 749.94] Thank you. -[749.94 --> 779.92] We remember Christ's words. -[779.92 --> 809.90] Thank you. -[809.90 --> 839.88] Thank you. -[839.90 --> 869.88] Thank you. -[869.88 --> 899.86] Thank you. -[899.88 --> 929.86] Thank you. -[929.88 --> 959.86] Thank you. -[959.88 --> 989.86] Thank you. -[989.86 --> 1019.84] Thank you. -[1019.84 --> 1049.82] Thank you. -[1049.84 --> 1079.82] Thank you. -[1079.82 --> 1109.80] Thank you. -[1109.82 --> 1139.80] Thank you. -[1139.80 --> 1169.78] Thank you. -[1169.80 --> 1199.78] Thank you. -[1199.78 --> 1229.76] Thank you. -[1229.78 --> 1259.76] Thank you. -[1259.78 --> 1289.76] See you. -[1289.78 --> 1319.76] Thank you. -[1319.78 --> 1349.76] Thank you. -[1349.78 --> 1379.76] Thank you. -[1379.78 --> 1409.76] Thank you. -[1409.78 --> 1439.76] Thank you. -[1439.78 --> 1469.76] Thank you. -[1469.76 --> 1499.74] Thank you. -[1499.76 --> 1529.74] Thank you. -[1529.76 --> 1559.74] Thank you. -[1559.76 --> 1589.74] Thank you. -[1589.76 --> 1619.74] Thank you. -[1619.76 --> 1649.74] Thank you. -[1649.76 --> 1679.74] Thank you. -[1679.76 --> 1709.74] Thank you. -[1709.74 --> 1739.72] Thank you. -[1739.74 --> 1769.72] Thank you. -[1769.74 --> 1799.72] Thank you. -[1799.74 --> 1829.72] Thank you. -[1829.74 --> 1859.72] Thank you. -[1859.72 --> 1889.70] Thank you. -[1889.72 --> 1919.70] Thank you. -[1919.72 --> 1949.70] Thank you. -[1949.72 --> 1979.70] Thank you. -[1979.72 --> 2009.70] Thank you. -[2009.72 --> 2039.70] Thank you. -[2039.72 --> 2069.70] Thank you. -[2069.72 --> 2099.70] Thank you. -[2099.72 --> 2129.70] Thank you. -[2129.72 --> 2159.70] Thank you. -[2159.72 --> 2189.70] Thank you. -[2189.72 --> 2219.70] Thank you. -[2219.72 --> 2249.70] Thank you. -[2249.72 --> 2279.70] Thank you. -[2279.72 --> 2309.70] I will sing. -[2309.72 --> 2339.70] I will sing. -[2339.72 --> 2369.70] Thank you. -[2369.70 --> 2399.68] Thank you. -[2399.70 --> 2429.68] As we come to hear you. -[2429.68 --> 2459.66] Thank you. -[2459.66 --> 2489.66] -[2489.66 --> 2496.64] I' Indigenous. -[2496.64 --> 2503.22] what wondrous love is this -[2503.22 --> 2509.36] we pray in Jesus name amen -[2509.36 --> 2520.26] tonight for our time here I'm going to do things just a little bit -[2520.26 --> 2524.52] differently than how we normally do in our worship together -[2524.52 --> 2530.60] tonight as we sort of rehearse the drama of scripture -[2530.60 --> 2538.82] I'm going to invite you to live into the narrative of Jesus death -[2538.82 --> 2545.06] and so unlike we ordinarily do I'm not going to read the text at the beginning -[2545.06 --> 2552.88] but we're going to read it and hear it together throughout our time -[2552.88 --> 2556.64] and so if you have a bible I do encourage you to -[2556.64 --> 2560.58] open it up or if it's on your phone to turn that on to get that out and to have -[2560.58 --> 2564.96] Matthew 27 verse 45 to 56 in front of you -[2564.96 --> 2569.28] but we're going to move through it slowly together -[2569.28 --> 2578.48] here in this time through this text in this particular moment -[2578.48 --> 2586.80] I hope that you will see that the death of Jesus is the death of God -[2586.80 --> 2592.90] and I hope that you will see how it is that we killed him -[2592.90 --> 2597.62] now to temper your expectations a little bit -[2597.62 --> 2602.56] I am very confident that you're going to leave tonight unsatisfied -[2602.56 --> 2606.96] but that is our aim -[2606.96 --> 2612.54] because we're going to carry this story to Sunday -[2612.54 --> 2614.84] it's Friday -[2614.84 --> 2617.48] but Sunday's coming -[2617.48 --> 2619.96] but for right now -[2619.96 --> 2622.58] let's live in Friday -[2622.58 --> 2627.04] and so the stage is set for us -[2627.04 --> 2632.18] from noon until three in the afternoon -[2632.18 --> 2635.98] darkness came all over the land -[2635.98 --> 2646.26] 750 years before this event took place -[2646.26 --> 2651.92] the prophet Amos had a vision of the Lord -[2651.92 --> 2653.80] and in his vision -[2653.80 --> 2655.26] the Lord says -[2655.26 --> 2658.98] in that day I will make the sun go down at noon -[2658.98 --> 2661.16] and darken the earth in broad daylight -[2661.16 --> 2665.96] I will make that time like morning for an only sun -[2665.96 --> 2669.14] in the end of it like a bitter day -[2669.14 --> 2673.86] in this moment with Jesus -[2673.86 --> 2680.50] the whole of creation portends this momentous moment -[2680.50 --> 2685.32] Dale Bruner describes this -[2685.32 --> 2689.50] as the world putting on mourners cloths -[2689.50 --> 2690.60] dark clothing -[2690.60 --> 2695.28] for the death of God's son is happening -[2695.28 --> 2697.48] he writes -[2697.48 --> 2700.40] the son of God came into the world -[2700.40 --> 2703.02] and in response the world's best religion -[2703.02 --> 2703.66] Judaism -[2703.66 --> 2706.18] and its most advanced government -[2706.18 --> 2707.88] the Roman Empire -[2707.88 --> 2710.12] combined together to kill him -[2710.12 --> 2712.52] and in great sympathy -[2712.52 --> 2716.34] the earth plunges into darkness -[2716.34 --> 2720.08] see the scope of Jesus' death -[2720.08 --> 2721.78] isn't just on that hill -[2721.78 --> 2723.02] over in Judea -[2723.02 --> 2724.40] outside of Jerusalem -[2724.40 --> 2725.94] even though it is there -[2725.94 --> 2727.18] and I've stood in that place -[2727.18 --> 2728.06] right -[2728.06 --> 2729.52] the scope of Jesus' death -[2729.52 --> 2731.36] isn't even just salvation -[2731.36 --> 2732.66] for sinners -[2732.66 --> 2733.92] from the wrath of God -[2733.92 --> 2734.42] for sin -[2734.42 --> 2736.08] even though I know that truth -[2736.08 --> 2738.10] and I celebrate it daily -[2738.10 --> 2740.60] the scope of Jesus' death -[2740.60 --> 2741.80] of what is happening here -[2741.80 --> 2742.62] in this text -[2742.62 --> 2745.18] is cosmic in its spread -[2745.18 --> 2747.84] and so all of creation groans -[2747.84 --> 2750.24] all of creation mourns -[2750.24 --> 2752.22] and all of creation waits -[2752.22 --> 2753.66] for what's next -[2753.66 --> 2755.26] it's Friday -[2755.26 --> 2757.58] but Sunday's coming -[2757.58 --> 2761.60] now this darkness ends -[2761.60 --> 2764.20] as Jesus' inner experience -[2764.20 --> 2765.48] of darkness reaches -[2765.48 --> 2768.00] its fever pitch -[2768.00 --> 2770.30] and about three in the afternoon -[2770.30 --> 2772.24] Jesus cried out in a loud voice -[2772.24 --> 2775.46] Eli, Eli, Lammoth, Tabathconee -[2775.46 --> 2777.08] which means -[2777.08 --> 2778.12] my God -[2778.12 --> 2779.28] my God -[2779.28 --> 2780.80] why have you -[2780.80 --> 2782.30] forsaken me? -[2782.30 --> 2785.18] these are the very same words -[2785.18 --> 2786.20] that we began -[2786.20 --> 2787.48] our worship with -[2787.48 --> 2788.86] and this sentence -[2788.86 --> 2790.10] this sentence -[2790.10 --> 2791.90] is the gospel -[2791.90 --> 2793.78] at its deepest -[2793.78 --> 2797.60] but as I was preparing -[2797.60 --> 2799.26] to share this with you -[2799.26 --> 2799.86] and to lead -[2799.86 --> 2800.34] and this -[2800.34 --> 2801.60] kept coming back -[2801.60 --> 2802.82] to this idea -[2802.82 --> 2803.58] and what I find -[2803.58 --> 2804.66] so amazing -[2804.66 --> 2805.80] right now -[2805.80 --> 2806.54] and right here -[2806.54 --> 2807.04] is that -[2807.04 --> 2810.24] Jesus' -[2811.20 --> 2812.56] last words -[2812.56 --> 2815.02] are a question -[2815.02 --> 2818.88] have you ever thought about that? -[2819.70 --> 2819.80] right -[2819.80 --> 2820.80] it's not a declaration -[2820.80 --> 2822.72] it's not a command -[2822.72 --> 2824.44] it's not an invitation -[2824.44 --> 2825.70] right -[2825.70 --> 2826.22] think about it -[2826.22 --> 2827.70] it's supposed to be -[2827.70 --> 2828.74] a moment of victory -[2828.74 --> 2829.94] and maybe -[2829.94 --> 2831.20] you come into this story -[2831.20 --> 2831.52] thinking -[2831.52 --> 2831.84] you know what -[2831.84 --> 2833.12] it shouldn't have even had to happen -[2833.12 --> 2834.08] in the way that it did -[2834.08 --> 2834.96] right -[2834.96 --> 2836.02] maybe you want Jesus -[2836.02 --> 2837.14] on the cross -[2837.14 --> 2838.16] to say something like -[2838.16 --> 2838.58] this -[2838.58 --> 2840.14] this is love -[2840.14 --> 2841.84] or maybe -[2841.84 --> 2842.72] for him to -[2842.72 --> 2843.98] to stand there -[2843.98 --> 2844.72] and to look -[2844.72 --> 2845.40] at the -[2845.40 --> 2846.00] the women -[2846.00 --> 2846.98] who are close -[2846.98 --> 2847.94] and the disciples -[2847.94 --> 2848.82] who have led -[2848.82 --> 2849.52] left -[2849.52 --> 2850.82] and for him to say -[2850.82 --> 2852.32] love one another -[2852.32 --> 2854.08] right -[2854.08 --> 2855.46] we want his final words -[2855.46 --> 2856.52] to be triumphant -[2856.52 --> 2857.86] we want his final words -[2857.86 --> 2858.98] to be an invitation -[2858.98 --> 2860.92] to join in the triumph -[2860.92 --> 2861.86] of what is to come -[2861.86 --> 2863.84] but questions -[2863.84 --> 2867.80] why questions -[2867.80 --> 2870.70] and yeah -[2870.70 --> 2871.64] I don't know about you -[2871.64 --> 2871.88] but -[2871.88 --> 2873.16] but there's something -[2873.16 --> 2876.14] there's something more real -[2876.14 --> 2878.20] about questions -[2878.20 --> 2879.90] right -[2879.90 --> 2880.86] in this moment -[2880.86 --> 2881.92] like in the moment -[2881.92 --> 2883.40] in the garden of Gethsemane -[2883.40 --> 2884.30] when he prayed -[2884.30 --> 2885.02] and he was -[2885.02 --> 2886.98] sweating drops of blood -[2886.98 --> 2888.14] and he asked for the cup -[2888.14 --> 2889.26] to be removed from him -[2889.26 --> 2889.64] right -[2889.64 --> 2890.56] in this moment -[2890.56 --> 2891.60] we see Jesus -[2891.60 --> 2893.42] not only taking on -[2893.42 --> 2894.10] flesh -[2894.10 --> 2895.20] in the incarnation -[2895.20 --> 2896.70] but we see Jesus -[2896.70 --> 2898.84] taking on our anxieties -[2898.84 --> 2899.94] and our fears -[2899.94 --> 2900.72] we see Jesus -[2900.72 --> 2901.96] taking on our feelings -[2901.96 --> 2903.00] and our nerves -[2903.00 --> 2904.56] right -[2904.56 --> 2905.82] all throughout the gospel story -[2905.82 --> 2906.24] of Jesus -[2906.24 --> 2907.16] in his life -[2907.16 --> 2907.90] he's given us -[2907.90 --> 2909.02] so many answers -[2909.02 --> 2911.00] and he's still answering -[2911.00 --> 2911.98] questions for us -[2911.98 --> 2913.36] but in this moment -[2913.36 --> 2914.32] right now -[2914.32 --> 2915.40] he's asking -[2915.40 --> 2916.76] my questions -[2916.76 --> 2918.24] he's asking -[2918.24 --> 2919.52] your questions -[2919.52 --> 2920.70] he's asking our -[2920.70 --> 2921.54] questions -[2921.54 --> 2922.06] God -[2922.06 --> 2923.80] why have you forsaken me -[2923.80 --> 2925.96] why have you abandoned me -[2925.96 --> 2928.86] this question tells us -[2928.86 --> 2929.68] that the cross -[2929.68 --> 2930.78] isn't only about -[2930.78 --> 2931.62] physical pain -[2931.62 --> 2933.58] but there's a very real -[2933.58 --> 2934.40] and a very deep -[2934.40 --> 2935.48] spiritual pain -[2935.48 --> 2936.56] there's a very real -[2936.56 --> 2937.18] and a very deep -[2937.18 --> 2938.56] relational pain -[2938.56 --> 2939.72] there's an anguish -[2939.72 --> 2941.14] and an alienation -[2941.14 --> 2943.22] that Jesus is experiencing here -[2943.22 --> 2944.16] and the cry -[2944.16 --> 2945.20] into the darkness -[2945.20 --> 2946.10] why me -[2946.10 --> 2951.30] is only -[2951.30 --> 2953.42] echoed back to him -[2953.42 --> 2955.12] in his agony -[2955.12 --> 2958.40] for no answer is given -[2958.40 --> 2961.32] sometimes -[2961.32 --> 2963.88] we taste -[2963.88 --> 2965.26] this same -[2965.26 --> 2966.54] agony -[2966.54 --> 2970.40] sometimes -[2970.40 --> 2972.16] we taste -[2972.16 --> 2972.98] this same -[2972.98 --> 2973.74] agony -[2973.74 --> 2974.68] the hole -[2974.68 --> 2975.28] that's left -[2975.28 --> 2975.82] behind -[2975.82 --> 2976.54] when someone -[2976.54 --> 2977.16] we love -[2977.16 --> 2978.00] dies -[2978.00 --> 2979.26] that's this -[2979.26 --> 2979.62] agony -[2979.62 --> 2981.98] the abandonment -[2981.98 --> 2982.52] we feel -[2982.52 --> 2983.48] when a spouse -[2983.48 --> 2984.08] leaves -[2984.08 --> 2985.00] that's this -[2985.00 --> 2985.40] agony -[2985.40 --> 2986.98] the loneliness -[2986.98 --> 2987.74] we experience -[2987.74 --> 2988.28] when a parent -[2988.28 --> 2989.32] runs away -[2989.32 --> 2991.80] when a dear -[2991.80 --> 2992.32] friend -[2992.32 --> 2993.72] is taken over -[2993.72 --> 2994.44] into addiction -[2994.44 --> 2996.58] all of these -[2996.58 --> 2997.84] little experiences -[2997.84 --> 2998.52] of hell -[2998.52 --> 2999.38] are a taste -[2999.38 --> 3000.38] of what Jesus -[3000.38 --> 3001.10] goes through -[3001.10 --> 3001.76] on the cross -[3001.76 --> 3003.16] death -[3003.16 --> 3004.46] and abandonment -[3004.46 --> 3005.10] loneliness -[3005.10 --> 3006.04] and rejection -[3006.04 --> 3007.12] desertion -[3007.12 --> 3007.80] Jesus -[3007.80 --> 3008.98] is in that -[3008.98 --> 3009.50] hell -[3009.50 --> 3010.08] too -[3010.08 --> 3012.82] later -[3012.82 --> 3014.24] in 2nd -[3014.24 --> 3015.04] Corinthians 5 -[3015.04 --> 3015.94] we read -[3015.94 --> 3018.34] God made him -[3018.34 --> 3019.10] who had -[3019.10 --> 3019.92] no sin -[3019.92 --> 3020.68] to be -[3020.68 --> 3021.24] sin -[3021.24 --> 3022.52] for us -[3022.52 --> 3025.60] God made -[3025.60 --> 3026.32] him -[3026.32 --> 3026.90] Jesus -[3026.90 --> 3027.78] who had -[3027.78 --> 3029.02] no sin -[3029.02 --> 3029.46] and so -[3029.46 --> 3029.96] when Jesus -[3029.96 --> 3030.52] asks -[3030.52 --> 3031.22] why have -[3031.22 --> 3031.96] you forsaken -[3031.96 --> 3032.50] me -[3032.50 --> 3033.86] that's why -[3033.86 --> 3034.42] this question -[3034.42 --> 3035.20] is so poignant -[3035.20 --> 3036.60] because Jesus -[3036.60 --> 3037.58] had no sin -[3037.58 --> 3039.38] if ever -[3039.38 --> 3039.80] there was -[3039.80 --> 3040.16] someone -[3040.16 --> 3040.84] who didn't -[3040.84 --> 3041.20] deserve -[3041.20 --> 3041.98] to be -[3041.98 --> 3042.44] abandoned -[3042.44 --> 3043.00] it's him -[3043.00 --> 3044.26] if ever -[3044.26 --> 3044.80] there's someone -[3044.80 --> 3045.32] who didn't -[3045.32 --> 3045.68] deserve -[3045.68 --> 3046.28] to feel -[3046.28 --> 3047.16] alienation -[3047.16 --> 3048.06] it's Jesus -[3048.06 --> 3049.10] and yet -[3049.10 --> 3049.72] in that -[3049.72 --> 3050.14] moment -[3050.14 --> 3051.08] he enters -[3051.08 --> 3051.68] the hell -[3051.68 --> 3052.66] of abandonment -[3052.66 --> 3054.06] in that -[3054.06 --> 3054.36] moment -[3054.36 --> 3054.98] he enters -[3054.98 --> 3055.88] the agony -[3055.88 --> 3057.00] of alienation -[3057.00 --> 3057.74] from his -[3057.74 --> 3058.14] father -[3058.14 --> 3059.14] this is -[3059.14 --> 3059.66] the cup -[3059.66 --> 3060.34] of God's -[3060.34 --> 3060.66] wrath -[3060.66 --> 3061.20] for sin -[3061.20 --> 3061.82] he did -[3061.82 --> 3062.52] not commit -[3062.52 --> 3063.80] and he -[3063.80 --> 3064.60] bore the curse -[3064.60 --> 3065.44] by becoming -[3065.44 --> 3066.02] cursed -[3066.02 --> 3067.78] so by being -[3067.78 --> 3068.46] cut off -[3068.46 --> 3069.00] from the -[3069.00 --> 3069.32] father -[3069.32 --> 3070.02] he is -[3070.02 --> 3070.82] experiencing -[3070.82 --> 3072.18] unfathomable -[3072.18 --> 3073.22] alienation -[3073.22 --> 3074.02] and rejection -[3074.02 --> 3075.14] and loneliness -[3075.14 --> 3076.06] and he cries -[3076.06 --> 3076.34] out -[3076.34 --> 3076.92] my God -[3076.92 --> 3077.60] my God -[3077.60 --> 3078.22] why have -[3078.22 --> 3079.22] you forsaken -[3079.22 --> 3079.50] me -[3079.50 --> 3081.08] because that's -[3081.08 --> 3081.80] the curse -[3081.80 --> 3082.66] of sin -[3082.66 --> 3084.16] sin -[3084.16 --> 3084.58] in its -[3084.58 --> 3085.50] most basic -[3085.50 --> 3085.98] form -[3085.98 --> 3087.62] is rejecting -[3087.62 --> 3088.10] God -[3088.10 --> 3088.82] it's removing -[3088.82 --> 3089.40] ourselves -[3089.40 --> 3090.02] from him -[3090.02 --> 3090.76] that's what -[3090.76 --> 3091.40] sin does -[3091.40 --> 3092.18] and on the -[3092.18 --> 3092.60] cross -[3092.60 --> 3093.40] Jesus is -[3093.40 --> 3094.10] experiencing -[3094.10 --> 3094.74] the full -[3094.74 --> 3095.22] effect -[3095.22 --> 3095.98] of that -[3095.98 --> 3096.60] reality -[3096.60 --> 3097.98] it's as if -[3097.98 --> 3098.54] God were -[3098.54 --> 3098.90] saying -[3098.90 --> 3099.88] this is what -[3099.88 --> 3100.26] it looks -[3100.26 --> 3100.56] like -[3100.56 --> 3100.80] and what -[3100.80 --> 3101.28] it feels -[3101.28 --> 3101.58] like -[3101.58 --> 3102.04] to have -[3102.04 --> 3102.88] my presence -[3102.88 --> 3103.32] to have -[3103.32 --> 3104.04] my face -[3104.04 --> 3104.92] turned away -[3104.92 --> 3105.38] from you -[3105.38 --> 3106.42] in choosing -[3106.42 --> 3107.32] sin over -[3107.32 --> 3107.80] me -[3107.80 --> 3108.40] this is -[3108.40 --> 3108.88] what you -[3108.88 --> 3109.62] asked for -[3109.62 --> 3112.06] on the -[3112.06 --> 3112.46] cross -[3112.46 --> 3114.32] Jesus -[3114.32 --> 3114.84] God -[3114.84 --> 3115.72] what we -[3115.72 --> 3116.08] asked -[3116.08 --> 3116.44] for -[3116.44 --> 3117.94] what we -[3117.94 --> 3118.42] deserved -[3118.42 --> 3122.16] I love -[3122.16 --> 3123.70] love the -[3123.70 --> 3124.08] poetry -[3124.08 --> 3124.52] again -[3124.52 --> 3125.72] with which -[3125.72 --> 3126.76] Bruner -[3126.76 --> 3127.64] puts this -[3127.64 --> 3128.04] he says -[3128.04 --> 3129.14] Jesus -[3129.14 --> 3129.98] drained -[3129.98 --> 3130.78] the dregs -[3130.78 --> 3131.10] of our -[3131.10 --> 3131.44] cup -[3131.44 --> 3132.42] and experienced -[3132.42 --> 3132.86] hell -[3132.86 --> 3134.62] in Jesus -[3134.62 --> 3135.40] the sword -[3135.40 --> 3135.92] went all -[3135.92 --> 3136.28] the way -[3136.28 --> 3136.82] into the -[3136.82 --> 3137.16] sheath -[3137.16 --> 3137.98] he came -[3137.98 --> 3138.46] all the -[3138.46 --> 3138.72] way -[3138.72 --> 3139.14] into -[3139.14 --> 3139.46] our -[3139.46 --> 3139.86] human -[3139.86 --> 3140.68] experience -[3140.68 --> 3141.18] this -[3141.18 --> 3141.54] is -[3141.54 --> 3141.96] Jesus -[3141.96 --> 3142.48] descent -[3142.48 --> 3142.76] into -[3142.76 --> 3143.06] hell -[3143.06 --> 3144.08] and we -[3144.08 --> 3144.24] should -[3144.24 --> 3144.64] simply -[3144.64 --> 3145.16] stand -[3145.16 --> 3145.54] back -[3145.54 --> 3145.82] in -[3145.82 --> 3146.48] silence -[3146.48 --> 3146.86] before -[3146.86 --> 3147.16] the -[3147.16 --> 3147.58] awful -[3147.58 --> 3148.00] verb -[3148.00 --> 3148.46] and -[3148.46 --> 3148.90] wonder -[3148.90 --> 3149.76] what -[3149.76 --> 3149.88] it -[3149.88 --> 3150.28] means -[3150.28 --> 3153.48] my -[3153.48 --> 3153.92] God -[3153.92 --> 3154.72] my -[3154.72 --> 3155.18] God -[3155.18 --> 3156.26] why -[3156.26 --> 3156.62] have -[3156.62 --> 3156.98] you -[3156.98 --> 3158.34] forsaken -[3158.34 --> 3158.70] me -[3158.70 --> 3162.98] it's -[3162.98 --> 3163.32] Friday -[3163.32 --> 3167.26] and I -[3167.26 --> 3167.62] really -[3167.62 --> 3167.96] hope -[3167.96 --> 3168.30] Sunday -[3168.30 --> 3168.46] is -[3168.46 --> 3168.76] coming -[3168.76 --> 3173.02] some -[3173.02 --> 3173.30] of those -[3173.30 --> 3173.62] people -[3173.62 --> 3173.96] who are -[3173.96 --> 3174.30] gathered -[3174.30 --> 3174.76] around -[3174.76 --> 3174.98] the -[3174.98 --> 3175.46] cross -[3175.46 --> 3176.04] they -[3176.04 --> 3176.34] hear -[3176.34 --> 3176.78] Jesus -[3176.78 --> 3177.20] cry -[3177.20 --> 3177.64] out -[3177.64 --> 3178.06] Eli -[3178.06 --> 3178.56] Eli -[3178.56 --> 3179.18] and they -[3179.18 --> 3179.70] think -[3179.70 --> 3180.26] he's -[3180.26 --> 3180.60] calling -[3180.60 --> 3180.88] to -[3180.88 --> 3181.32] Elijah -[3181.32 --> 3182.46] and -[3182.46 --> 3182.76] maybe -[3182.76 --> 3183.30] because -[3183.30 --> 3183.78] in that -[3183.78 --> 3184.38] guttural -[3184.38 --> 3184.96] scream -[3184.96 --> 3185.18] of -[3185.18 --> 3185.50] Eli -[3185.50 --> 3185.82] Eli -[3185.82 --> 3186.18] it -[3186.18 --> 3186.56] sounds -[3186.56 --> 3186.90] like -[3186.90 --> 3187.48] Elijah -[3187.48 --> 3188.18] Elijah -[3188.18 --> 3188.96] and -[3188.96 --> 3189.42] the -[3189.42 --> 3189.78] people -[3189.78 --> 3190.28] turn -[3190.28 --> 3190.72] this -[3190.72 --> 3191.18] into -[3191.18 --> 3191.64] another -[3191.64 --> 3192.12] chance -[3192.12 --> 3192.34] to -[3192.34 --> 3192.88] scoff -[3192.88 --> 3193.50] at -[3193.50 --> 3194.08] Jesus -[3194.08 --> 3195.40] because -[3195.40 --> 3196.20] in -[3196.20 --> 3196.50] the -[3196.50 --> 3196.86] last -[3196.86 --> 3197.26] words -[3197.26 --> 3197.54] of the -[3197.54 --> 3197.84] Hebrew -[3197.84 --> 3198.20] Bible -[3198.20 --> 3198.46] in -[3198.46 --> 3198.62] the -[3198.62 --> 3200.18] book -[3200.18 --> 3200.46] of -[3200.46 --> 3200.94] Malachi -[3200.94 --> 3202.38] we -[3202.38 --> 3202.80] read -[3202.80 --> 3204.32] see -[3204.32 --> 3205.02] I -[3205.02 --> 3205.22] will -[3205.22 --> 3205.58] send -[3205.58 --> 3205.80] the -[3205.80 --> 3206.16] prophet -[3206.16 --> 3206.70] Elijah -[3206.70 --> 3206.96] to -[3206.96 --> 3207.20] you -[3207.20 --> 3207.62] before -[3207.62 --> 3207.88] the -[3207.88 --> 3208.24] great -[3208.24 --> 3208.56] and -[3208.56 --> 3209.00] dreadful -[3209.00 --> 3209.36] day -[3209.36 --> 3209.88] of -[3209.88 --> 3210.04] the -[3210.04 --> 3210.24] Lord -[3210.24 --> 3210.74] comes -[3210.74 --> 3212.20] and -[3212.20 --> 3212.42] so -[3212.42 --> 3212.66] the -[3212.66 --> 3212.94] people -[3212.94 --> 3213.28] took -[3213.28 --> 3213.64] that -[3213.64 --> 3213.88] and -[3213.88 --> 3214.84] they -[3214.84 --> 3215.56] began -[3215.56 --> 3216.02] to -[3216.02 --> 3216.80] use -[3216.80 --> 3217.20] this -[3217.20 --> 3217.68] as a -[3217.68 --> 3218.00] marker -[3218.00 --> 3218.38] of -[3218.38 --> 3218.58] the -[3218.58 --> 3218.96] Messiah -[3218.96 --> 3219.22] who -[3219.22 --> 3219.50] would -[3219.50 --> 3219.90] come -[3219.90 --> 3220.04] and -[3220.04 --> 3220.14] they -[3220.14 --> 3220.26] would -[3220.26 --> 3220.40] say -[3220.40 --> 3220.56] that -[3220.56 --> 3221.02] Elijah -[3221.02 --> 3221.50] would -[3221.50 --> 3222.16] reappear -[3222.16 --> 3222.78] before -[3222.78 --> 3223.34] the -[3223.34 --> 3223.70] Messiah -[3223.70 --> 3224.22] appears -[3224.22 --> 3224.62] and -[3224.62 --> 3224.80] so -[3224.80 --> 3225.00] they -[3225.00 --> 3225.40] mock -[3225.40 --> 3225.98] Jesus -[3225.98 --> 3226.44] right -[3226.44 --> 3226.90] they add -[3226.90 --> 3227.44] to his -[3227.44 --> 3227.98] shame -[3227.98 --> 3228.28] and they -[3228.28 --> 3228.40] say -[3228.40 --> 3228.88] leave him -[3228.88 --> 3229.18] alone -[3229.18 --> 3229.56] let's -[3229.56 --> 3230.02] see if -[3230.02 --> 3230.52] Elijah -[3230.52 --> 3231.22] comes -[3231.22 --> 3231.68] to save -[3231.68 --> 3231.78] him -[3231.78 --> 3232.30] he thinks -[3232.30 --> 3232.52] he's -[3232.52 --> 3232.68] the -[3232.68 --> 3233.08] Messiah -[3233.08 --> 3233.60] they -[3233.60 --> 3234.04] scorn -[3234.04 --> 3234.52] and they -[3234.52 --> 3234.88] scoff -[3234.88 --> 3235.20] at him -[3235.20 --> 3236.06] leave him -[3236.06 --> 3236.60] then in -[3236.60 --> 3236.84] that -[3236.84 --> 3237.32] delusion -[3237.32 --> 3239.52] now of -[3239.52 --> 3239.80] course -[3239.80 --> 3240.58] most of -[3240.58 --> 3240.76] these -[3240.76 --> 3241.22] people -[3241.22 --> 3242.00] missed the -[3242.00 --> 3242.88] transfiguration -[3242.88 --> 3243.30] right -[3243.30 --> 3243.88] where Moses -[3243.88 --> 3244.44] and -[3244.44 --> 3245.40] Elijah -[3245.40 --> 3246.16] did -[3246.16 --> 3246.62] appear -[3246.62 --> 3247.42] with him -[3247.42 --> 3248.80] most of -[3248.80 --> 3249.02] these -[3249.02 --> 3249.44] people -[3249.44 --> 3250.10] hadn't yet -[3250.10 --> 3250.44] made the -[3250.44 --> 3250.82] connection -[3250.82 --> 3251.36] that John -[3251.36 --> 3251.80] the Baptist -[3251.80 --> 3252.54] comes as a -[3252.54 --> 3252.80] prophet -[3252.80 --> 3253.58] like Messiah -[3253.58 --> 3254.62] to announce -[3254.62 --> 3255.50] behold the -[3255.50 --> 3256.04] Lamb of -[3256.04 --> 3256.36] God -[3256.36 --> 3256.90] who takes -[3256.90 --> 3257.28] away -[3257.28 --> 3257.90] the sin -[3257.90 --> 3258.16] of the -[3258.16 --> 3258.46] world -[3258.46 --> 3260.16] instead -[3260.16 --> 3261.86] they continue -[3261.86 --> 3262.46] his -[3262.46 --> 3263.98] humiliation -[3263.98 --> 3265.86] adding -[3265.86 --> 3266.50] to the -[3266.50 --> 3266.86] depth -[3266.86 --> 3268.28] of his -[3268.28 --> 3268.60] shame -[3268.60 --> 3271.94] they missed -[3271.94 --> 3273.68] the spiritual -[3273.68 --> 3274.92] reality -[3274.92 --> 3275.68] happening -[3275.68 --> 3276.76] for them -[3276.76 --> 3277.50] because -[3277.50 --> 3278.28] they were -[3278.28 --> 3278.96] fixated -[3278.96 --> 3279.52] on the -[3279.52 --> 3280.00] physical -[3280.00 --> 3280.84] reality -[3280.84 --> 3281.30] happening -[3281.30 --> 3281.84] in front -[3281.84 --> 3282.30] of them -[3282.30 --> 3284.28] let me -[3284.28 --> 3284.56] say that -[3284.56 --> 3284.76] again -[3284.76 --> 3285.52] they missed -[3285.52 --> 3285.76] the -[3285.76 --> 3286.16] spiritual -[3286.16 --> 3286.72] reality -[3286.72 --> 3287.12] happening -[3287.12 --> 3287.80] for them -[3287.80 --> 3288.14] on the -[3288.14 --> 3288.46] cross -[3288.46 --> 3288.72] because -[3288.72 --> 3289.08] they were -[3289.08 --> 3289.60] fixated -[3289.60 --> 3290.18] on the -[3290.18 --> 3290.54] physical -[3290.54 --> 3291.04] reality -[3291.04 --> 3291.62] happening -[3291.62 --> 3292.10] in front -[3292.10 --> 3292.48] of them -[3292.48 --> 3294.02] and how -[3294.02 --> 3294.50] many times -[3294.50 --> 3294.70] are we -[3294.70 --> 3295.02] not the -[3295.02 --> 3295.22] same -[3295.22 --> 3296.78] right -[3296.78 --> 3297.28] how often -[3297.28 --> 3297.58] are we -[3297.58 --> 3297.94] blind -[3297.94 --> 3298.48] or closed -[3298.48 --> 3298.92] off to -[3298.92 --> 3299.12] the -[3299.12 --> 3299.46] spiritual -[3299.46 --> 3300.02] reality -[3300.02 --> 3300.56] of our -[3300.56 --> 3301.08] circumstances -[3301.08 --> 3301.40] because -[3301.40 --> 3301.66] we're -[3301.66 --> 3302.14] fixated -[3302.14 --> 3302.48] on the -[3302.48 --> 3302.86] physical -[3302.86 --> 3303.44] reality -[3303.44 --> 3304.14] in front -[3304.14 --> 3304.40] of us -[3304.40 --> 3304.56] right -[3304.56 --> 3304.70] when -[3304.70 --> 3305.38] feelings -[3305.38 --> 3306.02] of pain -[3306.02 --> 3306.48] blind -[3306.48 --> 3306.74] us -[3306.74 --> 3307.04] to the -[3307.04 --> 3307.38] truth -[3307.38 --> 3307.82] of -[3307.82 --> 3308.24] doctrine -[3308.24 --> 3308.66] when -[3308.66 --> 3308.90] the -[3308.90 --> 3309.40] feelings -[3309.40 --> 3309.92] of hurt -[3309.92 --> 3310.84] overwhelm -[3310.84 --> 3311.18] what we -[3311.18 --> 3311.48] know -[3311.48 --> 3311.84] to be -[3311.84 --> 3312.16] true -[3312.16 --> 3312.60] when -[3312.60 --> 3313.02] the -[3313.02 --> 3313.46] hardships -[3313.46 --> 3313.76] we -[3313.76 --> 3314.24] experience -[3314.24 --> 3314.54] whatever -[3314.54 --> 3314.98] they may -[3314.98 --> 3315.24] be -[3315.24 --> 3316.00] cut us -[3316.00 --> 3316.36] off -[3316.36 --> 3316.54] from -[3316.54 --> 3316.70] the -[3316.70 --> 3316.94] hope -[3316.94 --> 3317.44] of -[3317.44 --> 3317.86] comfort -[3317.86 --> 3319.18] and -[3319.18 --> 3319.32] for -[3319.32 --> 3319.62] just -[3319.62 --> 3319.80] a -[3319.80 --> 3320.10] moment -[3320.10 --> 3320.46] right -[3320.46 --> 3320.78] now -[3320.78 --> 3321.24] you -[3321.24 --> 3321.54] are -[3321.54 --> 3321.84] being -[3321.84 --> 3322.30] invited -[3322.30 --> 3322.54] to -[3322.54 --> 3322.82] see -[3322.82 --> 3323.08] the -[3323.08 --> 3323.54] world -[3323.54 --> 3324.10] not -[3324.10 --> 3324.36] through -[3324.36 --> 3324.58] the -[3324.58 --> 3325.02] lens -[3325.02 --> 3325.24] of -[3325.24 --> 3325.48] these -[3325.48 --> 3325.94] physical -[3325.94 --> 3326.52] realities -[3326.52 --> 3327.08] but -[3327.08 --> 3327.32] through -[3327.32 --> 3327.52] the -[3327.52 --> 3327.90] lens -[3327.90 --> 3328.26] of -[3328.26 --> 3328.64] the -[3328.64 --> 3329.30] spiritual -[3329.30 --> 3329.78] truth -[3329.78 --> 3330.04] of -[3330.04 --> 3330.22] the -[3330.22 --> 3330.60] cross -[3330.60 --> 3331.08] of -[3331.08 --> 3331.40] Jesus -[3331.40 --> 3331.80] Christ -[3331.80 --> 3332.20] and -[3332.20 --> 3332.76] let -[3332.76 --> 3332.90] me -[3332.90 --> 3333.06] be -[3333.06 --> 3333.58] really -[3333.58 --> 3333.98] clear -[3333.98 --> 3335.70] this -[3335.70 --> 3335.86] is -[3335.86 --> 3336.06] not -[3336.06 --> 3336.24] an -[3336.24 --> 3336.66] erasure -[3336.66 --> 3337.08] of -[3337.08 --> 3337.24] your -[3337.24 --> 3337.62] physical -[3337.62 --> 3338.22] realities -[3338.22 --> 3338.78] this -[3338.78 --> 3338.94] is -[3338.94 --> 3339.14] not -[3339.14 --> 3339.48] you -[3339.48 --> 3340.12] ignoring -[3340.12 --> 3340.44] the -[3340.44 --> 3340.80] truth -[3340.80 --> 3341.16] of -[3341.16 --> 3341.28] the -[3341.28 --> 3341.58] hurt -[3341.58 --> 3341.80] and -[3341.80 --> 3341.94] the -[3341.94 --> 3342.30] hardship -[3342.30 --> 3342.62] in -[3342.62 --> 3342.80] this -[3342.80 --> 3343.00] world -[3343.00 --> 3343.82] instead -[3343.82 --> 3344.60] this -[3344.60 --> 3344.92] is -[3344.92 --> 3345.34] you -[3345.34 --> 3346.16] framing -[3346.16 --> 3346.52] your -[3346.52 --> 3347.30] experience -[3347.30 --> 3347.54] of -[3347.54 --> 3347.78] those -[3347.78 --> 3348.14] things -[3348.14 --> 3348.60] in -[3348.60 --> 3348.78] the -[3348.78 --> 3349.30] context -[3349.30 --> 3349.58] of -[3349.58 --> 3349.78] the -[3349.78 --> 3350.26] cross -[3350.26 --> 3350.96] in -[3350.96 --> 3351.38] relation -[3351.38 --> 3351.64] to -[3351.64 --> 3351.80] the -[3351.80 --> 3352.10] cross -[3352.10 --> 3352.32] in -[3352.32 --> 3352.66] light -[3352.66 --> 3353.06] of -[3353.06 --> 3353.20] the -[3353.20 --> 3353.60] gospel -[3353.60 --> 3354.56] and -[3354.56 --> 3354.96] framing -[3354.96 --> 3355.34] these -[3355.34 --> 3355.72] things -[3355.72 --> 3355.94] in -[3355.94 --> 3356.10] the -[3356.10 --> 3356.54] context -[3356.54 --> 3356.76] of -[3356.76 --> 3356.90] the -[3356.90 --> 3357.22] cross -[3357.22 --> 3357.42] in -[3357.42 --> 3357.64] light -[3357.64 --> 3357.78] of -[3357.78 --> 3357.90] the -[3357.90 --> 3358.22] gospel -[3358.22 --> 3358.70] is -[3358.70 --> 3358.88] to -[3358.88 --> 3359.36] see -[3359.36 --> 3359.74] in -[3359.74 --> 3360.26] them -[3360.26 --> 3360.74] and -[3360.74 --> 3361.02] in -[3361.02 --> 3361.34] those -[3361.34 --> 3361.94] moments -[3361.94 --> 3362.48] the -[3362.48 --> 3362.70] Lord -[3362.70 --> 3363.08] Jesus -[3363.08 --> 3363.68] himself -[3363.68 --> 3365.12] it's -[3365.12 --> 3365.24] to -[3365.24 --> 3365.54] see -[3365.54 --> 3365.82] in -[3365.82 --> 3366.00] your -[3366.00 --> 3366.42] deepest -[3366.42 --> 3366.94] fears -[3366.94 --> 3367.42] Jesus -[3367.42 --> 3367.98] right -[3367.98 --> 3368.38] there -[3368.38 --> 3368.90] with -[3368.90 --> 3369.16] you -[3369.16 --> 3370.24] it's -[3370.24 --> 3370.38] to -[3370.38 --> 3370.68] see -[3370.68 --> 3370.90] in -[3370.90 --> 3371.04] your -[3371.04 --> 3371.30] most -[3371.30 --> 3371.94] heightened -[3371.94 --> 3372.78] anxieties -[3372.78 --> 3373.28] Jesus -[3373.28 --> 3373.82] right -[3373.82 --> 3374.20] there -[3374.20 --> 3374.86] alongside -[3374.86 --> 3375.22] of -[3375.22 --> 3375.40] you -[3375.40 --> 3376.30] it's -[3376.30 --> 3376.44] to -[3376.44 --> 3376.82] see -[3376.82 --> 3377.08] in -[3377.08 --> 3377.26] the -[3377.26 --> 3377.66] depths -[3377.66 --> 3377.90] of -[3377.90 --> 3378.04] your -[3378.04 --> 3378.60] personal -[3378.60 --> 3379.48] experiences -[3379.48 --> 3379.90] of -[3379.90 --> 3380.42] hell -[3380.42 --> 3381.12] the -[3381.12 --> 3381.38] Lord -[3381.38 --> 3381.84] Jesus -[3381.84 --> 3382.40] who -[3382.40 --> 3383.26] descended -[3383.26 --> 3384.32] to be -[3384.32 --> 3384.66] there -[3384.66 --> 3385.12] with -[3385.12 --> 3385.46] you -[3385.46 --> 3389.08] this -[3389.08 --> 3389.40] is -[3389.40 --> 3389.64] our -[3389.64 --> 3390.06] chance -[3390.06 --> 3390.30] to -[3390.30 --> 3390.60] say -[3390.60 --> 3391.02] yes -[3391.02 --> 3391.42] it's -[3391.42 --> 3391.80] Friday -[3391.80 --> 3392.84] but -[3392.84 --> 3393.28] Sunday -[3393.28 --> 3394.14] is -[3394.14 --> 3395.14] coming -[3395.14 --> 3398.28] and -[3398.28 --> 3398.56] look -[3398.56 --> 3400.56] so -[3400.56 --> 3400.90] many -[3400.90 --> 3401.12] of -[3401.12 --> 3401.36] those -[3401.36 --> 3401.86] people -[3401.86 --> 3402.74] missed -[3402.74 --> 3402.92] it -[3402.92 --> 3403.14] so -[3403.14 --> 3403.38] many -[3403.38 --> 3403.54] of -[3403.54 --> 3403.72] those -[3403.72 --> 3404.08] people -[3404.08 --> 3404.46] missed -[3404.46 --> 3404.82] him -[3404.82 --> 3405.78] and -[3405.78 --> 3406.04] here's -[3406.04 --> 3406.20] the -[3406.20 --> 3406.48] thing -[3406.48 --> 3408.72] here's -[3408.72 --> 3408.84] the -[3408.84 --> 3409.06] thing -[3409.06 --> 3410.94] you -[3410.94 --> 3411.56] may -[3411.56 --> 3412.02] have -[3412.02 --> 3412.54] been -[3412.54 --> 3413.24] coming -[3413.24 --> 3413.54] to -[3413.54 --> 3414.02] church -[3414.02 --> 3414.68] your -[3414.68 --> 3415.08] entire -[3415.08 --> 3415.48] life -[3415.48 --> 3415.64] and -[3415.64 --> 3415.80] for -[3415.80 --> 3416.00] most -[3416.00 --> 3416.12] of -[3416.12 --> 3416.26] us -[3416.26 --> 3416.42] here -[3416.42 --> 3416.64] this -[3416.64 --> 3416.78] is -[3416.78 --> 3416.92] our -[3416.92 --> 3417.20] truth -[3417.20 --> 3418.42] you -[3418.42 --> 3418.62] may -[3418.62 --> 3418.80] have -[3418.80 --> 3418.98] been -[3418.98 --> 3419.22] coming -[3419.22 --> 3419.40] to -[3419.40 --> 3419.62] church -[3419.62 --> 3419.78] your -[3419.78 --> 3420.12] entire -[3420.12 --> 3420.44] life -[3420.44 --> 3420.88] but -[3420.88 --> 3421.02] it -[3421.02 --> 3421.20] is -[3421.20 --> 3421.74] possible -[3421.74 --> 3422.40] that -[3422.40 --> 3422.60] your -[3422.60 --> 3423.00] heart -[3423.00 --> 3423.30] is -[3423.30 --> 3423.50] not -[3423.50 --> 3423.70] yet -[3423.70 --> 3424.12] converted -[3424.12 --> 3424.36] to -[3424.36 --> 3424.74] Christ -[3424.74 --> 3426.66] so -[3426.66 --> 3426.80] you -[3426.80 --> 3426.94] need -[3426.94 --> 3427.04] to -[3427.04 --> 3427.16] hear -[3427.16 --> 3427.56] this -[3427.56 --> 3428.96] so -[3428.96 --> 3429.14] for -[3429.14 --> 3429.56] instance -[3429.56 --> 3429.82] if -[3429.82 --> 3430.00] you -[3430.00 --> 3430.30] have -[3430.30 --> 3430.64] a -[3430.64 --> 3431.24] laissez-faire -[3431.24 --> 3431.64] attitude -[3431.64 --> 3432.16] towards -[3432.16 --> 3432.42] the -[3432.42 --> 3432.64] sin -[3432.64 --> 3432.88] in -[3432.88 --> 3433.00] your -[3433.00 --> 3433.28] life -[3433.28 --> 3433.46] the -[3433.46 --> 3433.62] sin -[3433.62 --> 3433.80] that -[3433.80 --> 3434.24] consists -[3434.24 --> 3434.72] and -[3434.72 --> 3435.10] persists -[3435.10 --> 3435.30] in -[3435.30 --> 3435.40] your -[3435.40 --> 3435.56] life -[3435.56 --> 3436.04] this -[3436.04 --> 3436.32] may -[3436.32 --> 3436.52] be -[3436.52 --> 3436.78] you -[3436.78 --> 3437.18] you -[3437.18 --> 3437.46] need -[3437.46 --> 3437.64] to -[3437.64 --> 3437.92] hear -[3437.92 --> 3438.44] be -[3438.44 --> 3438.88] converted -[3438.88 --> 3439.08] to -[3439.08 --> 3439.54] Christ -[3439.54 --> 3441.68] this -[3441.68 --> 3441.96] may -[3441.96 --> 3442.24] be -[3442.24 --> 3442.46] the -[3442.46 --> 3442.70] first -[3442.70 --> 3443.00] time -[3443.00 --> 3443.24] you've -[3443.24 --> 3443.38] come -[3443.38 --> 3443.52] to -[3443.52 --> 3443.74] church -[3443.74 --> 3443.88] in -[3443.88 --> 3444.32] years -[3444.32 --> 3445.82] right -[3445.82 --> 3446.28] you -[3446.28 --> 3447.24] might -[3447.24 --> 3447.66] think -[3447.66 --> 3447.94] you're -[3447.94 --> 3448.26] here -[3448.26 --> 3448.64] because -[3448.64 --> 3449.02] mom -[3449.02 --> 3449.50] invited -[3449.50 --> 3449.80] you -[3449.80 --> 3450.00] or -[3450.00 --> 3450.30] because -[3450.30 --> 3450.52] your -[3450.52 --> 3450.80] neighbor -[3450.80 --> 3451.16] said -[3451.16 --> 3451.38] hey -[3451.38 --> 3451.68] you should -[3451.68 --> 3451.96] come to -[3451.96 --> 3452.22] church -[3452.22 --> 3452.62] tonight -[3452.62 --> 3453.30] but -[3453.30 --> 3453.54] the -[3453.54 --> 3453.98] spiritual -[3453.98 --> 3454.58] reality -[3454.58 --> 3455.02] is -[3455.02 --> 3455.32] you -[3455.32 --> 3455.62] are -[3455.62 --> 3456.06] here -[3456.06 --> 3456.58] to -[3456.58 --> 3457.02] soften -[3457.02 --> 3457.30] your -[3457.30 --> 3457.50] heart -[3457.50 --> 3457.66] to -[3457.66 --> 3458.08] Christ -[3458.08 --> 3460.60] and -[3460.60 --> 3461.14] maybe -[3461.14 --> 3462.08] this is -[3462.08 --> 3462.52] the first -[3462.52 --> 3462.88] time -[3462.88 --> 3463.52] you have -[3463.52 --> 3463.90] ever -[3463.90 --> 3464.20] come -[3464.20 --> 3464.38] to -[3464.38 --> 3464.72] church -[3464.72 --> 3466.40] or -[3466.40 --> 3466.56] maybe -[3466.56 --> 3466.82] this is -[3466.82 --> 3467.12] the first -[3467.12 --> 3467.30] time -[3467.30 --> 3467.48] you've -[3467.48 --> 3467.66] ever -[3467.66 --> 3467.92] actually -[3467.92 --> 3468.40] listened -[3468.40 --> 3469.54] at -[3469.54 --> 3469.90] church -[3469.90 --> 3471.42] can I -[3471.42 --> 3471.54] be -[3471.54 --> 3471.80] bold -[3471.80 --> 3472.02] with -[3472.02 --> 3472.24] you -[3472.24 --> 3473.82] the -[3473.82 --> 3474.06] Lord -[3474.06 --> 3474.34] Jesus -[3474.34 --> 3474.68] is -[3474.68 --> 3475.18] standing -[3475.18 --> 3475.50] in -[3475.50 --> 3475.80] front -[3475.80 --> 3476.02] of -[3476.02 --> 3476.14] you -[3476.14 --> 3476.34] he -[3476.34 --> 3476.58] is -[3476.58 --> 3477.02] standing -[3477.02 --> 3477.28] at -[3477.28 --> 3477.44] the -[3477.44 --> 3477.68] door -[3477.68 --> 3477.86] of -[3477.86 --> 3477.98] your -[3477.98 --> 3478.24] heart -[3478.24 --> 3478.58] and he -[3478.58 --> 3478.86] is -[3478.86 --> 3479.54] knocking -[3479.54 --> 3479.84] he -[3479.84 --> 3480.08] is -[3480.08 --> 3480.46] asking -[3480.46 --> 3480.96] will -[3480.96 --> 3481.20] you -[3481.20 --> 3481.62] see -[3481.62 --> 3482.02] me -[3482.02 --> 3482.96] will -[3482.96 --> 3483.24] you -[3483.24 --> 3483.82] let -[3483.82 --> 3484.02] me -[3484.02 --> 3484.32] in -[3484.32 --> 3484.58] will -[3484.58 --> 3484.80] you -[3484.80 --> 3485.08] let -[3485.08 --> 3485.22] me -[3485.22 --> 3485.48] be -[3485.48 --> 3485.70] your -[3485.70 --> 3486.10] Messiah -[3486.10 --> 3486.52] King -[3486.52 --> 3486.72] will -[3486.72 --> 3486.90] you -[3486.90 --> 3487.44] let -[3487.44 --> 3487.62] me -[3487.62 --> 3487.90] be -[3487.90 --> 3488.18] your -[3488.18 --> 3488.70] Savior -[3488.70 --> 3489.08] will -[3489.08 --> 3489.30] you -[3489.30 --> 3489.78] see -[3489.78 --> 3490.10] in -[3490.10 --> 3490.48] me -[3490.48 --> 3490.76] the -[3490.76 --> 3491.14] love -[3491.14 --> 3491.56] of -[3491.56 --> 3491.98] God -[3491.98 --> 3492.66] taken -[3492.66 --> 3493.02] on -[3493.02 --> 3493.62] flesh -[3493.62 --> 3494.10] for -[3494.10 --> 3494.46] you -[3494.46 --> 3499.64] don't -[3499.64 --> 3499.90] miss -[3499.90 --> 3500.30] what so -[3500.30 --> 3500.50] many -[3500.50 --> 3500.82] people -[3500.82 --> 3501.22] have -[3501.22 --> 3502.22] love -[3502.22 --> 3504.22] in -[3504.22 --> 3504.28] the -[3504.28 --> 3504.58] story -[3504.58 --> 3504.74] that -[3504.74 --> 3504.88] we -[3504.88 --> 3505.02] are -[3505.02 --> 3505.40] reading -[3505.40 --> 3506.48] that -[3506.48 --> 3506.58] we -[3506.58 --> 3506.70] are -[3506.70 --> 3507.30] rehearsing -[3507.30 --> 3508.44] there's -[3508.44 --> 3508.68] one -[3508.68 --> 3509.08] man -[3509.08 --> 3509.56] in a -[3509.56 --> 3509.80] group -[3509.80 --> 3510.14] with -[3510.14 --> 3510.42] him -[3510.42 --> 3511.04] who -[3511.04 --> 3511.50] saw -[3511.50 --> 3512.00] Jesus -[3512.00 --> 3512.38] who -[3512.38 --> 3512.78] saw -[3512.78 --> 3513.40] all -[3513.40 --> 3513.60] that -[3513.60 --> 3513.80] has -[3513.80 --> 3514.26] happened -[3514.26 --> 3515.72] and -[3515.72 --> 3515.92] made -[3515.92 --> 3516.24] sense -[3516.24 --> 3516.40] of -[3516.40 --> 3516.58] it -[3516.58 --> 3517.52] and -[3517.52 --> 3517.68] it's -[3517.68 --> 3517.80] a -[3517.80 --> 3518.06] Roman -[3518.06 --> 3518.88] centurion -[3518.88 --> 3519.76] and -[3519.76 --> 3519.98] those -[3519.98 --> 3520.20] with -[3520.20 --> 3520.42] him -[3520.42 --> 3522.18] it's -[3522.18 --> 3522.30] not -[3522.30 --> 3522.44] the -[3522.44 --> 3522.86] disciples -[3522.86 --> 3523.72] we -[3523.72 --> 3523.84] have -[3523.84 --> 3523.98] no -[3523.98 --> 3524.22] idea -[3524.22 --> 3524.38] where -[3524.38 --> 3524.52] they -[3524.52 --> 3524.76] are -[3524.76 --> 3526.00] it's -[3526.00 --> 3526.12] not -[3526.12 --> 3526.26] the -[3526.26 --> 3526.58] religious -[3526.58 --> 3527.12] officials -[3527.12 --> 3528.00] it's -[3528.00 --> 3528.12] not -[3528.12 --> 3528.28] the -[3528.28 --> 3528.70] crowds -[3528.70 --> 3528.90] who -[3528.90 --> 3529.12] just -[3529.12 --> 3529.24] a -[3529.24 --> 3529.40] week -[3529.40 --> 3529.64] ago -[3529.64 --> 3530.02] cheered -[3530.02 --> 3530.24] him -[3530.24 --> 3530.56] into -[3530.56 --> 3531.10] Jerusalem -[3531.10 --> 3531.58] it -[3531.58 --> 3531.70] is -[3531.70 --> 3531.88] a -[3531.88 --> 3532.12] Roman -[3532.12 --> 3532.60] soldier -[3532.60 --> 3532.88] who -[3532.88 --> 3533.20] says -[3533.20 --> 3533.84] surely -[3533.84 --> 3534.90] he -[3534.90 --> 3535.68] was -[3535.68 --> 3535.84] the -[3535.84 --> 3536.14] son -[3536.14 --> 3536.98] of -[3536.98 --> 3537.38] God -[3537.38 --> 3540.28] John -[3540.28 --> 3540.64] Calvin -[3540.64 --> 3541.08] in his -[3541.08 --> 3541.44] commentary -[3541.44 --> 3542.36] on this -[3542.36 --> 3542.76] story -[3542.76 --> 3543.00] he -[3543.00 --> 3543.42] says -[3543.42 --> 3544.98] it -[3544.98 --> 3545.16] is -[3545.16 --> 3546.00] wonderful -[3546.00 --> 3546.74] that -[3546.74 --> 3546.92] an -[3546.92 --> 3547.64] irreligious -[3547.64 --> 3548.12] man -[3548.12 --> 3548.52] who -[3548.52 --> 3548.66] has -[3548.66 --> 3548.90] not -[3548.90 --> 3549.06] been -[3549.06 --> 3549.44] instructed -[3549.44 --> 3549.66] in -[3549.66 --> 3549.76] the -[3549.76 --> 3550.04] law -[3550.04 --> 3550.48] and -[3550.48 --> 3550.66] was -[3550.66 --> 3551.00] ignorant -[3551.00 --> 3551.24] of -[3551.24 --> 3551.46] true -[3551.46 --> 3551.86] religion -[3551.86 --> 3552.24] should -[3552.24 --> 3552.68] form -[3552.68 --> 3553.06] so -[3553.06 --> 3553.66] correct -[3553.66 --> 3553.96] a -[3553.96 --> 3554.30] judgment -[3554.30 --> 3554.62] from -[3554.62 --> 3554.80] the -[3554.80 --> 3555.24] signs -[3555.24 --> 3555.52] which -[3555.52 --> 3555.70] he -[3555.70 --> 3556.10] beheld -[3556.10 --> 3557.36] and -[3557.36 --> 3557.60] Calvin -[3557.60 --> 3557.82] goes -[3557.82 --> 3558.06] on -[3558.06 --> 3558.22] to -[3558.22 --> 3558.62] contrast -[3558.62 --> 3559.16] that -[3559.16 --> 3559.56] with -[3559.56 --> 3559.74] the -[3559.74 --> 3560.14] shocking -[3560.14 --> 3560.72] madness -[3560.72 --> 3561.06] and -[3561.06 --> 3561.20] the -[3561.20 --> 3561.48] gross -[3561.48 --> 3562.08] blindness -[3562.08 --> 3562.46] and -[3562.46 --> 3562.64] the -[3562.64 --> 3563.36] condemnable -[3563.36 --> 3564.48] stupidity -[3564.48 --> 3565.18] that's -[3565.18 --> 3565.36] his -[3565.36 --> 3565.64] word -[3565.64 --> 3566.12] of -[3566.12 --> 3566.30] the -[3566.30 --> 3566.64] people -[3566.64 --> 3566.92] who -[3566.92 --> 3567.18] should -[3567.18 --> 3567.34] have -[3567.34 --> 3567.56] known -[3567.56 --> 3567.86] better -[3567.86 --> 3569.90] now -[3569.90 --> 3570.38] I -[3570.38 --> 3570.52] don't -[3570.52 --> 3570.74] think -[3570.74 --> 3570.94] any -[3570.94 --> 3571.10] of -[3571.10 --> 3571.22] you -[3571.22 --> 3571.38] are -[3571.38 --> 3571.80] stupid -[3571.80 --> 3572.94] or -[3572.94 --> 3573.38] blind -[3573.38 --> 3574.18] or -[3574.18 --> 3574.56] mad -[3574.56 --> 3575.64] or -[3575.64 --> 3575.76] if -[3575.76 --> 3575.88] I -[3575.88 --> 3576.00] do -[3576.00 --> 3576.12] I -[3576.12 --> 3576.30] wouldn't -[3576.30 --> 3576.50] tell -[3576.50 --> 3576.74] you -[3576.74 --> 3577.74] at -[3577.74 --> 3577.86] least -[3577.86 --> 3578.04] not -[3578.04 --> 3578.16] in -[3578.16 --> 3578.32] this -[3578.32 --> 3578.60] setting -[3578.60 --> 3580.60] but -[3580.60 --> 3580.72] I -[3580.72 --> 3581.00] really -[3581.00 --> 3581.20] do -[3581.20 --> 3581.58] believe -[3581.58 --> 3581.82] that -[3581.82 --> 3582.08] leaves -[3582.08 --> 3582.32] us -[3582.32 --> 3582.64] without -[3582.64 --> 3583.30] excuse -[3583.30 --> 3585.32] in -[3585.32 --> 3585.46] the -[3585.46 --> 3585.74] story -[3585.74 --> 3585.94] the -[3585.94 --> 3586.28] temple -[3586.28 --> 3586.72] curtain -[3586.72 --> 3587.02] is -[3587.02 --> 3587.40] torn -[3587.40 --> 3587.74] in -[3587.74 --> 3588.08] two -[3588.08 --> 3588.68] when -[3588.68 --> 3589.08] Jesus -[3589.08 --> 3589.72] breathes -[3589.72 --> 3589.94] his -[3589.94 --> 3590.38] last -[3590.38 --> 3590.96] one -[3590.96 --> 3591.56] final -[3591.56 --> 3592.24] sacrifice -[3592.24 --> 3592.66] once -[3592.66 --> 3592.90] for -[3592.90 --> 3593.18] all -[3593.18 --> 3593.44] has -[3593.44 --> 3594.60] ended -[3594.60 --> 3595.00] the -[3595.00 --> 3595.30] need -[3595.30 --> 3595.52] for -[3595.52 --> 3595.78] all -[3595.78 --> 3596.50] sacrifices -[3596.50 --> 3597.50] and -[3597.50 --> 3598.02] also -[3598.02 --> 3598.38] has -[3598.38 --> 3598.88] opened -[3598.88 --> 3599.24] up -[3599.24 --> 3599.52] to -[3599.52 --> 3599.94] us -[3599.94 --> 3600.42] the -[3600.42 --> 3600.80] way -[3600.80 --> 3601.30] into -[3601.30 --> 3601.56] the -[3601.56 --> 3601.88] presence -[3601.88 --> 3602.08] of -[3602.08 --> 3602.28] God -[3602.28 --> 3602.68] quite -[3602.68 --> 3603.10] literally -[3603.10 --> 3603.94] in -[3603.94 --> 3604.08] the -[3604.08 --> 3604.40] tearing -[3604.40 --> 3604.64] of -[3604.64 --> 3604.78] the -[3604.78 --> 3605.02] temple -[3605.02 --> 3605.34] curtain -[3605.34 --> 3605.56] the -[3605.56 --> 3605.92] holy -[3605.92 --> 3606.16] of -[3606.16 --> 3606.60] holies -[3606.60 --> 3606.82] is -[3606.82 --> 3607.36] pouring -[3607.36 --> 3607.82] out -[3607.82 --> 3608.30] into -[3608.30 --> 3608.64] the -[3608.64 --> 3609.04] world -[3609.04 --> 3609.70] around -[3609.70 --> 3609.86] it -[3609.86 --> 3610.40] access -[3610.40 --> 3610.74] to -[3610.74 --> 3611.12] God -[3611.12 --> 3611.58] and -[3611.58 --> 3611.96] God's -[3611.96 --> 3612.40] presence -[3612.40 --> 3612.82] is -[3612.82 --> 3613.76] mediated -[3613.76 --> 3614.18] through -[3614.18 --> 3614.54] the -[3614.54 --> 3615.10] sacrifice -[3615.10 --> 3615.62] of -[3615.62 --> 3616.36] Jesus -[3616.36 --> 3617.22] we -[3617.22 --> 3617.46] read -[3617.46 --> 3617.92] that -[3617.92 --> 3618.10] the -[3618.10 --> 3618.50] earth -[3618.50 --> 3619.10] shook -[3619.10 --> 3619.68] and -[3619.68 --> 3619.86] the -[3619.86 --> 3620.22] rocks -[3620.22 --> 3620.94] split -[3620.94 --> 3625.80] Isaiah -[3625.80 --> 3626.30] 55 -[3626.30 --> 3627.00] says -[3627.00 --> 3627.62] the -[3627.62 --> 3628.14] mountains -[3628.14 --> 3628.54] and -[3628.54 --> 3628.70] the -[3628.70 --> 3629.12] hills -[3629.12 --> 3629.42] will -[3629.42 --> 3629.84] break -[3629.84 --> 3630.42] forth -[3630.42 --> 3631.16] before -[3631.16 --> 3631.54] you -[3631.54 --> 3634.00] tombs -[3634.00 --> 3634.34] broke -[3634.34 --> 3634.82] open -[3634.82 --> 3635.04] and -[3635.04 --> 3635.18] the -[3635.18 --> 3635.54] bodies -[3635.54 --> 3635.84] of -[3635.84 --> 3636.16] many -[3636.16 --> 3636.84] holy -[3636.84 --> 3637.40] people -[3637.40 --> 3638.72] who -[3638.72 --> 3638.92] had -[3638.92 --> 3639.32] died -[3639.32 --> 3639.56] were -[3639.56 --> 3639.94] raised -[3639.94 --> 3640.16] to -[3640.16 --> 3640.50] life -[3640.50 --> 3641.00] they -[3641.00 --> 3641.22] came -[3641.22 --> 3641.38] out -[3641.38 --> 3641.46] of -[3641.46 --> 3641.60] the -[3641.60 --> 3641.88] tombs -[3641.88 --> 3642.12] after -[3642.12 --> 3642.42] Jesus -[3642.42 --> 3643.20] resurrection -[3643.20 --> 3643.96] and -[3643.96 --> 3644.16] went -[3644.16 --> 3644.46] into -[3644.46 --> 3644.62] the -[3644.62 --> 3644.84] holy -[3644.84 --> 3645.26] city -[3645.26 --> 3645.76] and -[3645.76 --> 3646.08] appeared -[3646.08 --> 3646.28] to -[3646.28 --> 3646.50] many -[3646.50 --> 3646.94] people -[3646.94 --> 3648.88] it's -[3648.88 --> 3649.02] hard -[3649.02 --> 3649.18] to -[3649.18 --> 3649.44] see -[3649.44 --> 3649.64] in -[3649.64 --> 3649.76] the -[3649.76 --> 3650.02] English -[3650.02 --> 3650.60] translation -[3650.60 --> 3651.74] but -[3651.74 --> 3651.92] while -[3651.92 --> 3652.08] the -[3652.08 --> 3652.48] tombs -[3652.48 --> 3652.70] may -[3652.70 --> 3652.92] have -[3652.92 --> 3653.32] broken -[3653.32 --> 3653.90] open -[3653.90 --> 3654.30] during -[3654.30 --> 3654.50] the -[3654.50 --> 3654.82] earthquake -[3654.82 --> 3655.08] that -[3655.08 --> 3655.28] took -[3655.28 --> 3655.62] place -[3655.62 --> 3655.82] the -[3655.82 --> 3656.10] Greek -[3656.10 --> 3656.44] grammar -[3656.44 --> 3656.68] of -[3656.68 --> 3656.88] this -[3656.88 --> 3657.32] sentence -[3657.32 --> 3658.46] clarifies -[3658.46 --> 3658.66] for -[3658.66 --> 3658.86] us -[3658.86 --> 3659.02] that -[3659.02 --> 3659.16] they -[3659.16 --> 3659.42] came -[3659.42 --> 3659.62] out -[3659.62 --> 3659.70] of -[3659.70 --> 3659.84] the -[3659.84 --> 3660.14] tombs -[3660.14 --> 3660.52] after -[3660.52 --> 3660.88] Jesus -[3660.88 --> 3661.48] resurrection -[3661.48 --> 3662.16] and -[3662.16 --> 3662.64] Matthew -[3662.64 --> 3663.30] is -[3663.30 --> 3663.54] very -[3663.54 --> 3664.62] particularly -[3664.62 --> 3665.34] making -[3665.34 --> 3666.00] a point -[3666.00 --> 3666.46] that -[3666.46 --> 3667.28] the parallels -[3667.28 --> 3667.78] a point -[3667.78 --> 3668.26] that Paul -[3668.26 --> 3668.62] makes -[3668.62 --> 3669.62] in 1 Corinthians -[3669.62 --> 3670.62] 15 -[3670.62 --> 3671.30] verse 20 -[3671.30 --> 3671.72] when he -[3671.72 --> 3672.04] calls -[3672.04 --> 3672.48] Jesus -[3672.48 --> 3672.86] the -[3672.86 --> 3673.48] first fruits -[3673.48 --> 3674.02] of the -[3674.02 --> 3674.42] resurrection -[3674.42 --> 3674.86] of all -[3674.86 --> 3675.22] people -[3675.22 --> 3676.10] and -[3676.10 --> 3676.56] both -[3676.56 --> 3677.04] of those -[3677.04 --> 3677.44] points -[3677.44 --> 3677.72] to be -[3677.72 --> 3678.00] made -[3678.00 --> 3678.18] are -[3678.18 --> 3678.52] connected -[3678.52 --> 3678.76] back -[3678.76 --> 3679.08] to a -[3679.08 --> 3679.48] prophecy -[3679.48 --> 3679.90] that's -[3679.90 --> 3680.22] spoken -[3680.22 --> 3680.56] about -[3680.56 --> 3680.72] the -[3680.72 --> 3681.14] Messiah -[3681.14 --> 3681.78] in -[3681.78 --> 3682.10] Daniel -[3682.10 --> 3682.52] 12 -[3682.52 --> 3683.08] verse 2 -[3683.08 --> 3683.80] it says -[3683.80 --> 3684.38] multitudes -[3684.38 --> 3684.94] who sleep -[3684.94 --> 3685.20] in the -[3685.20 --> 3685.42] dust -[3685.42 --> 3685.66] of the -[3685.66 --> 3685.86] earth -[3685.86 --> 3686.06] will -[3686.06 --> 3686.42] awake -[3686.42 --> 3687.40] but -[3687.40 --> 3687.58] in -[3687.58 --> 3687.92] short -[3687.92 --> 3688.60] the point -[3688.60 --> 3688.80] that's -[3688.80 --> 3689.04] being -[3689.04 --> 3689.32] made -[3689.32 --> 3689.66] here -[3689.66 --> 3690.38] is -[3690.38 --> 3690.52] that -[3690.52 --> 3690.78] yes -[3690.78 --> 3691.06] it's -[3691.06 --> 3691.46] Friday -[3691.46 --> 3694.58] Sunday's -[3694.58 --> 3694.96] coming -[3694.96 --> 3696.46] you're -[3696.46 --> 3696.62] getting -[3696.62 --> 3696.80] it -[3696.80 --> 3697.24] slowly -[3697.24 --> 3700.40] Isaiah -[3700.40 --> 3700.94] 53 -[3700.94 --> 3702.12] says -[3702.12 --> 3702.52] he was -[3702.52 --> 3703.28] despised -[3703.28 --> 3704.02] and rejected -[3704.02 --> 3704.82] by mankind -[3704.82 --> 3705.50] a man -[3705.50 --> 3706.46] of suffering -[3706.46 --> 3707.04] and familiar -[3707.04 --> 3707.62] with pain -[3707.62 --> 3708.30] like one -[3708.30 --> 3708.70] from whom -[3708.70 --> 3709.02] people -[3709.02 --> 3710.04] hide their -[3710.04 --> 3710.46] faces -[3710.46 --> 3710.92] he was -[3710.92 --> 3711.64] despised -[3711.64 --> 3712.28] and we -[3712.28 --> 3712.80] held him -[3712.80 --> 3713.24] in low -[3713.24 --> 3713.82] esteem -[3713.82 --> 3714.82] surely -[3714.82 --> 3715.62] remember that -[3715.62 --> 3715.90] word -[3715.90 --> 3716.46] surely -[3716.46 --> 3717.32] he took -[3717.32 --> 3717.82] up our -[3717.82 --> 3718.24] pain -[3718.24 --> 3718.72] and bore -[3718.72 --> 3718.94] our -[3718.94 --> 3719.46] suffering -[3719.46 --> 3720.12] yet we -[3720.12 --> 3720.58] considered -[3720.58 --> 3720.86] him -[3720.86 --> 3721.30] punished -[3721.30 --> 3721.92] by God -[3721.92 --> 3722.36] stricken -[3722.36 --> 3722.82] by him -[3722.82 --> 3723.54] and afflicted -[3723.54 --> 3724.22] he was -[3724.22 --> 3724.80] pierced -[3724.80 --> 3725.34] for our -[3725.34 --> 3726.18] transgressions -[3726.18 --> 3726.54] he was -[3726.54 --> 3726.96] crushed -[3726.96 --> 3727.74] for our -[3727.74 --> 3728.36] iniquities -[3728.36 --> 3728.74] and the -[3728.74 --> 3729.12] punishment -[3729.12 --> 3729.62] that brought -[3729.62 --> 3730.34] us peace -[3730.34 --> 3731.10] was on -[3731.10 --> 3731.38] him -[3731.38 --> 3732.46] by his -[3732.46 --> 3733.14] wounds -[3733.14 --> 3733.90] we -[3733.90 --> 3734.76] are -[3734.76 --> 3735.66] healed -[3735.66 --> 3737.80] the -[3737.80 --> 3738.28] centurion -[3738.28 --> 3738.56] said -[3738.56 --> 3739.08] surely -[3739.08 --> 3740.04] this man -[3740.04 --> 3740.56] was the -[3740.56 --> 3740.88] son -[3740.88 --> 3741.84] of God -[3741.84 --> 3742.44] surely -[3742.44 --> 3743.28] he is -[3743.28 --> 3744.18] the son -[3744.18 --> 3744.92] of -[3744.92 --> 3745.74] God -[3745.74 --> 3746.56] God -[3746.56 --> 3747.12] is -[3747.12 --> 3747.86] dead -[3747.86 --> 3749.88] he -[3749.88 --> 3750.18] saw -[3750.18 --> 3750.88] it -[3750.88 --> 3752.82] do you -[3752.82 --> 3756.40] surely -[3756.40 --> 3756.94] he -[3756.94 --> 3757.32] took -[3757.32 --> 3757.80] up -[3757.80 --> 3758.56] our -[3758.56 --> 3759.22] pain -[3759.22 --> 3760.06] surely -[3760.06 --> 3760.42] he -[3760.42 --> 3760.82] bore -[3760.82 --> 3761.22] our -[3761.22 --> 3761.82] suffering -[3761.82 --> 3762.26] surely -[3762.26 --> 3762.58] he -[3762.58 --> 3762.80] was -[3762.80 --> 3763.20] pierced -[3763.20 --> 3763.86] for our -[3763.86 --> 3764.66] transgressions -[3764.66 --> 3765.02] crushed -[3765.02 --> 3765.62] for our -[3765.62 --> 3766.38] iniquities -[3766.38 --> 3766.92] surely -[3766.92 --> 3767.84] by his -[3767.84 --> 3768.36] wounds -[3768.36 --> 3769.02] we -[3769.02 --> 3769.42] are -[3769.42 --> 3769.80] healed -[3769.80 --> 3770.50] God -[3770.50 --> 3770.94] is -[3770.94 --> 3771.54] dead -[3771.54 --> 3773.24] and -[3773.24 --> 3773.64] we -[3773.64 --> 3774.76] have -[3774.76 --> 3775.04] killed -[3775.04 --> 3775.36] him -[3775.36 --> 3780.82] earlier -[3780.82 --> 3782.84] quoting -[3782.84 --> 3783.40] Bruner -[3783.40 --> 3783.96] I said -[3783.96 --> 3784.30] that we -[3784.30 --> 3784.52] should -[3784.52 --> 3784.96] simply -[3784.96 --> 3785.50] stand -[3785.50 --> 3785.94] back -[3785.94 --> 3786.28] in -[3786.28 --> 3786.78] silence -[3786.78 --> 3787.16] before -[3787.16 --> 3787.62] the -[3787.62 --> 3788.04] awful -[3788.04 --> 3788.52] verb -[3788.52 --> 3788.80] and -[3788.80 --> 3789.24] wonder -[3789.24 --> 3789.60] what -[3789.60 --> 3789.76] it -[3789.76 --> 3790.20] means -[3790.20 --> 3792.38] we've -[3792.38 --> 3792.52] looked -[3792.52 --> 3792.88] at some -[3792.88 --> 3793.20] of those -[3793.20 --> 3793.62] meanings -[3793.62 --> 3794.74] tonight -[3794.74 --> 3795.70] we've -[3795.70 --> 3795.86] only -[3795.86 --> 3796.18] scratched -[3796.18 --> 3796.38] the -[3796.38 --> 3796.68] surface -[3796.68 --> 3796.94] on -[3796.94 --> 3797.30] most -[3797.30 --> 3797.46] of -[3797.46 --> 3797.66] them -[3797.66 --> 3797.88] and -[3797.88 --> 3798.84] we've -[3798.84 --> 3799.06] left -[3799.06 --> 3799.36] many -[3799.36 --> 3799.62] for -[3799.62 --> 3799.80] your -[3799.80 --> 3800.10] own -[3800.10 --> 3800.78] reflection -[3800.78 --> 3803.04] but -[3803.04 --> 3803.20] we're -[3803.20 --> 3803.38] going -[3803.38 --> 3803.56] to -[3803.56 --> 3804.00] end -[3804.00 --> 3806.90] we're -[3806.90 --> 3807.04] going -[3807.04 --> 3807.22] to -[3807.22 --> 3807.52] end -[3807.52 --> 3808.10] in -[3808.10 --> 3808.54] this -[3808.54 --> 3809.08] moment -[3809.08 --> 3809.38] of -[3809.38 --> 3810.00] silence -[3810.00 --> 3811.08] and -[3811.08 --> 3811.46] song -[3811.46 --> 3812.38] in -[3812.38 --> 3812.52] just -[3812.52 --> 3812.64] a -[3812.64 --> 3812.84] moment -[3812.84 --> 3813.08] I'm -[3813.08 --> 3813.16] going -[3813.16 --> 3813.26] to -[3813.26 --> 3813.50] ask -[3813.50 --> 3813.62] you -[3813.62 --> 3813.78] to -[3813.78 --> 3814.18] stand -[3814.18 --> 3815.58] and -[3815.58 --> 3816.08] now -[3816.08 --> 3816.40] I -[3816.40 --> 3816.60] will -[3816.60 --> 3817.04] read -[3817.04 --> 3817.30] the -[3817.30 --> 3817.76] story -[3817.76 --> 3818.08] in -[3818.08 --> 3818.38] full -[3818.38 --> 3819.82] and -[3819.82 --> 3819.96] so -[3819.96 --> 3820.18] as -[3820.18 --> 3820.36] you -[3820.36 --> 3820.92] stand -[3820.92 --> 3821.76] take -[3821.76 --> 3821.98] a -[3821.98 --> 3822.32] prayer -[3822.32 --> 3822.80] a -[3822.80 --> 3823.16] posture -[3823.16 --> 3823.40] of -[3823.40 --> 3823.76] prayer -[3823.76 --> 3824.22] and -[3824.22 --> 3824.36] of -[3824.36 --> 3824.66] listening -[3824.66 --> 3824.94] maybe -[3824.94 --> 3825.28] close -[3825.28 --> 3825.44] your -[3825.44 --> 3825.74] eyes -[3825.74 --> 3825.98] however -[3825.98 --> 3826.24] it -[3826.24 --> 3826.42] is -[3826.42 --> 3826.52] you -[3826.52 --> 3826.72] need -[3826.72 --> 3826.84] to -[3826.84 --> 3827.02] but -[3827.02 --> 3827.50] stand -[3827.50 --> 3828.22] close -[3828.22 --> 3828.40] your -[3828.40 --> 3828.76] eyes -[3828.76 --> 3829.20] together -[3829.20 --> 3829.74] we -[3829.74 --> 3829.92] will -[3829.92 --> 3830.22] hear -[3830.22 --> 3830.54] this -[3830.54 --> 3830.96] story -[3830.96 --> 3831.22] and -[3831.22 --> 3831.38] we -[3831.38 --> 3831.66] will -[3831.66 --> 3832.60] enter -[3832.60 --> 3833.42] into -[3833.42 --> 3834.42] silence -[3834.42 --> 3836.04] and -[3836.04 --> 3836.14] then -[3836.14 --> 3836.34] after -[3836.34 --> 3836.52] a -[3836.52 --> 3836.72] period -[3836.72 --> 3836.86] of -[3836.86 --> 3837.16] time -[3837.16 --> 3837.36] the -[3837.36 --> 3837.64] worship -[3837.64 --> 3838.12] team -[3838.12 --> 3838.52] is -[3838.52 --> 3838.64] going -[3838.64 --> 3838.76] to -[3838.76 --> 3838.92] pull -[3838.92 --> 3839.08] us -[3839.08 --> 3839.24] out -[3839.24 --> 3839.34] of -[3839.34 --> 3839.52] that -[3839.52 --> 3840.06] silence -[3840.06 --> 3841.26] back -[3841.26 --> 3841.48] into -[3841.48 --> 3841.82] song -[3841.82 --> 3842.54] would -[3842.54 --> 3842.68] you -[3842.68 --> 3843.18] stand -[3843.18 --> 3844.24] together -[3860.54 --> 3861.72] eyes -[3861.72 --> 3861.74] eyes -[3861.74 --> 3861.76] eyes -[3861.76 --> 3861.78] eyes -[3861.78 --> 3862.36] closed -[3862.36 --> 3863.10] heart -[3863.10 --> 3864.32] open -[3864.32 --> 3864.56] to -[3864.56 --> 3864.98] God -[3864.98 --> 3865.92] hear -[3865.92 --> 3866.44] this -[3866.44 --> 3867.42] story -[3867.42 --> 3870.80] from -[3870.80 --> 3871.20] noon -[3871.20 --> 3871.68] until -[3871.68 --> 3872.20] three -[3872.20 --> 3872.56] in the -[3872.56 --> 3873.10] afternoon -[3873.10 --> 3873.72] darkness -[3873.72 --> 3874.38] came -[3874.38 --> 3874.76] over -[3874.76 --> 3875.08] all -[3875.08 --> 3875.24] the -[3875.24 --> 3875.60] land -[3875.60 --> 3877.68] after -[3877.68 --> 3878.04] three -[3878.04 --> 3878.36] in the -[3878.36 --> 3878.84] afternoon -[3878.84 --> 3879.24] Jesus -[3879.24 --> 3879.66] cried -[3879.66 --> 3879.92] out -[3879.92 --> 3880.20] in a -[3880.20 --> 3880.42] loud -[3880.42 --> 3880.94] voice -[3880.94 --> 3882.06] Eli -[3882.06 --> 3882.90] Eli -[3882.90 --> 3883.62] Lema -[3883.62 --> 3884.36] Sabathcani -[3884.36 --> 3886.16] which -[3886.16 --> 3886.66] means -[3886.66 --> 3887.08] my -[3887.08 --> 3887.52] God -[3887.52 --> 3888.04] my -[3888.04 --> 3888.44] God -[3888.44 --> 3888.98] why -[3888.98 --> 3889.30] have -[3889.30 --> 3889.46] you -[3889.46 --> 3889.92] forsaken -[3889.92 --> 3890.22] me -[3890.22 --> 3892.38] and -[3892.38 --> 3892.50] when -[3892.50 --> 3892.68] some -[3892.68 --> 3892.80] of -[3892.80 --> 3893.22] those -[3893.22 --> 3893.72] standing -[3893.72 --> 3894.00] there -[3894.00 --> 3894.32] heard -[3894.32 --> 3894.66] this -[3894.66 --> 3894.86] they -[3894.86 --> 3895.20] said -[3895.20 --> 3895.74] he's -[3895.74 --> 3896.10] calling -[3896.10 --> 3896.62] Elijah -[3896.62 --> 3898.68] immediately -[3898.68 --> 3899.20] one of -[3899.20 --> 3899.34] them -[3899.34 --> 3899.60] ran -[3899.60 --> 3899.86] and got -[3899.86 --> 3900.02] a -[3900.02 --> 3900.42] sponge -[3900.42 --> 3900.86] he -[3900.86 --> 3901.14] filled -[3901.14 --> 3901.28] it -[3901.28 --> 3901.42] with -[3901.42 --> 3901.68] wine -[3901.68 --> 3901.98] vinegar -[3901.98 --> 3902.26] put -[3902.26 --> 3902.36] it -[3902.36 --> 3902.46] on -[3902.46 --> 3902.62] a -[3902.62 --> 3902.92] staff -[3902.92 --> 3903.06] and -[3903.06 --> 3903.36] offered -[3903.36 --> 3903.52] it -[3903.52 --> 3903.66] to -[3903.66 --> 3903.94] Jesus -[3903.94 --> 3904.18] to -[3904.18 --> 3904.42] drink -[3904.42 --> 3904.66] the -[3904.66 --> 3905.04] rest -[3905.04 --> 3905.56] said -[3905.56 --> 3906.36] now -[3906.36 --> 3906.80] leave -[3906.80 --> 3907.00] him -[3907.00 --> 3907.44] alone -[3907.44 --> 3908.16] let's -[3908.16 --> 3908.44] see -[3908.44 --> 3908.68] if -[3908.68 --> 3909.18] Elijah -[3909.18 --> 3909.64] comes -[3909.64 --> 3909.88] to -[3909.88 --> 3910.18] save -[3910.18 --> 3910.42] him -[3910.42 --> 3913.60] and -[3913.60 --> 3913.76] when -[3913.76 --> 3914.10] Jesus -[3914.10 --> 3914.38] had -[3914.38 --> 3914.90] cried -[3914.90 --> 3915.28] out -[3915.28 --> 3915.74] again -[3915.74 --> 3916.20] in a -[3916.20 --> 3916.44] loud -[3916.44 --> 3917.00] voice -[3917.00 --> 3917.84] he -[3917.84 --> 3918.18] gave -[3918.18 --> 3918.46] up -[3918.46 --> 3919.38] his -[3919.38 --> 3919.84] spirit -[3919.84 --> 3922.80] at -[3922.80 --> 3922.98] that -[3922.98 --> 3923.32] moment -[3923.32 --> 3923.58] the -[3923.58 --> 3923.90] curtain -[3923.90 --> 3924.12] of -[3924.12 --> 3924.28] the -[3924.28 --> 3924.50] temple -[3924.50 --> 3924.76] was -[3924.76 --> 3925.06] torn -[3925.06 --> 3925.34] in -[3925.34 --> 3925.58] two -[3925.58 --> 3925.82] from -[3925.82 --> 3926.18] top -[3926.18 --> 3926.60] to -[3926.60 --> 3926.86] bottom -[3926.86 --> 3927.06] the -[3927.06 --> 3927.32] earth -[3927.32 --> 3927.68] shook -[3927.68 --> 3927.90] the -[3927.90 --> 3928.20] rocks -[3928.20 --> 3928.52] split -[3928.52 --> 3928.90] and -[3928.90 --> 3929.04] the -[3929.04 --> 3929.40] tombs -[3929.40 --> 3929.68] broke -[3929.68 --> 3930.06] open -[3930.06 --> 3930.44] the -[3930.44 --> 3930.72] body -[3930.72 --> 3930.92] of -[3930.92 --> 3931.18] many -[3931.18 --> 3931.50] holy -[3931.50 --> 3931.88] people -[3931.88 --> 3932.08] who -[3932.08 --> 3932.26] had -[3932.26 --> 3932.58] died -[3932.58 --> 3932.80] were -[3932.80 --> 3933.18] raised -[3933.18 --> 3933.48] to -[3933.48 --> 3933.84] life -[3933.84 --> 3934.24] and -[3934.24 --> 3934.38] they -[3934.38 --> 3934.64] came -[3934.64 --> 3934.90] out -[3934.90 --> 3935.10] of -[3935.10 --> 3935.26] the -[3935.26 --> 3935.64] tombs -[3935.64 --> 3936.10] after -[3936.10 --> 3936.44] Jesus -[3936.44 --> 3937.02] resurrection -[3937.02 --> 3937.54] and -[3937.54 --> 3937.78] went -[3937.78 --> 3938.18] into -[3938.18 --> 3938.40] the -[3938.40 --> 3938.70] holy -[3938.70 --> 3939.06] city -[3939.06 --> 3939.30] and -[3939.30 --> 3939.80] appeared -[3939.80 --> 3940.28] to -[3940.28 --> 3940.52] many -[3940.52 --> 3940.92] people -[3940.92 --> 3943.28] when -[3943.28 --> 3943.44] the -[3943.44 --> 3944.04] centurion -[3944.04 --> 3944.34] and -[3944.34 --> 3944.64] those -[3944.64 --> 3944.92] with -[3944.92 --> 3945.26] him -[3945.26 --> 3945.72] who -[3945.72 --> 3945.86] were -[3945.86 --> 3946.24] guarding -[3946.24 --> 3946.68] Jesus -[3946.68 --> 3947.08] saw -[3947.08 --> 3947.30] the -[3947.30 --> 3947.68] earthquake -[3947.68 --> 3948.00] and -[3948.00 --> 3948.18] all -[3948.18 --> 3948.34] that -[3948.34 --> 3948.48] had -[3948.48 --> 3948.84] happened -[3948.84 --> 3949.40] they -[3949.40 --> 3949.60] were -[3949.60 --> 3950.16] terrified -[3950.16 --> 3951.08] and -[3951.08 --> 3951.86] exclaimed -[3951.86 --> 3953.18] surely -[3953.18 --> 3954.32] he -[3954.32 --> 3955.32] was -[3955.32 --> 3955.54] the -[3955.54 --> 3955.94] son -[3955.94 --> 3957.04] of -[3957.04 --> 3957.50] God -[3957.50 --> 3961.02] many -[3961.02 --> 3961.30] women -[3961.30 --> 3961.76] were there -[3961.76 --> 3962.80] watching -[3962.80 --> 3963.24] from a -[3963.24 --> 3963.68] distance -[3963.68 --> 3964.92] they -[3964.92 --> 3965.32] followed -[3965.32 --> 3965.66] Jesus -[3965.66 --> 3965.92] from -[3965.92 --> 3966.34] Galilee -[3966.34 --> 3966.56] to -[3966.56 --> 3966.78] care -[3966.78 --> 3966.98] for -[3966.98 --> 3967.14] his -[3967.14 --> 3967.52] needs -[3967.52 --> 3968.42] and -[3968.42 --> 3968.68] among -[3968.68 --> 3968.96] them -[3968.96 --> 3969.12] were -[3969.12 --> 3969.40] Mary -[3969.40 --> 3970.06] Magdalene -[3970.06 --> 3970.74] Mary -[3970.74 --> 3970.94] the -[3970.94 --> 3971.16] mother -[3971.16 --> 3971.38] of -[3971.38 --> 3971.70] James -[3971.70 --> 3971.96] and -[3971.96 --> 3972.26] Joseph -[3972.26 --> 3973.38] and -[3973.38 --> 3973.54] the -[3973.54 --> 3973.76] mother -[3973.76 --> 3974.06] of -[3974.06 --> 3974.74] Zebedee's -[3974.74 --> 3975.72] sons -[3975.72 --> 3977.46] this -[3977.46 --> 3978.08] is -[3978.08 --> 3978.26] the -[3978.26 --> 3978.68] word -[3978.68 --> 3979.38] of -[3979.38 --> 3979.50] the -[3979.50 --> 3979.78] Lord -[3993.68 --> 3995.20] evangelism -[3995.20 --> 3995.34] the -[3995.34 --> 4011.54] 하고 -[4011.66 --> 4013.08] to -[4013.28 --> 4013.66] God -[4013.66 --> 4015.16] to -[4015.16 --> 4045.14] Thank you. -[4045.16 --> 4075.14] Thank you. -[4075.16 --> 4086.50] To see the King of Heaven fall in anguish to His knees. -[4086.50 --> 4098.50] The light and hope of all the world, now overwhelmed with grief. -[4098.50 --> 4110.94] What nameless horrors must He see to cry out in the garden? -[4110.94 --> 4122.94] Oh, take this cup away from me, yet not my will but Yours. -[4122.94 --> 4128.94] Yet not my will but Yours. -[4128.94 --> 4155.94] To know each friend will fall away. -[4155.94 --> 4160.94] And Heaven's voice be still. -[4160.94 --> 4172.94] For hell to have its vengeful day, among all the thoughts still. -[4172.94 --> 4180.16] No words describe the Savior's plight. -[4180.16 --> 4185.16] To be by God forsaken. -[4185.16 --> 4191.16] Till from the young are satisfied. -[4191.16 --> 4196.16] Then every sin is pain. -[4196.16 --> 4198.16] Then every sin is pain. -[4198.16 --> 4203.16] Then every sin is pain. -[4203.16 --> 4224.16] I took Him to this wretched place. -[4224.16 --> 4236.16] What kept Him on His throne. -[4236.16 --> 4242.16] There's love for Adam's curse and grace. -[4242.16 --> 4248.16] For every broken soul. -[4248.16 --> 4249.16] No sin to spite. -[4249.16 --> 4254.16] No sin to spite, to overlook. -[4254.16 --> 4260.16] No crime too great to carry. -[4260.16 --> 4265.16] All people live in His voice and cup. -[4265.16 --> 4271.16] And that He drank it all. -[4271.16 --> 4277.16] The Savior drank it all. -[4277.16 --> 4284.16] The Savior drank it all. -[4284.16 --> 4285.16] Lord God befriientras Jai vegetables. -[4285.16 --> 4287.16] The Savior nella Limba... -[4287.16 --> 4289.16] The Savior吗... -[4289.16 --> 4292.16] The Savior dramoto iodworks. -[4292.16 --> 4297.16] Where Only разрешit diome. -[4297.16 --> 4299.16] No pitcos подrivitas. -[4299.16 --> 4302.16] No�를 ng enlivena puedeรbeat. -[4302.16 --> 4303.16] Amen. -[4332.16 --> 4333.16] Amen. -[4362.16 --> 4369.16] Truly my heart is in you. -[4372.16 --> 4379.16] O light of light, Thine only hope and glory, -[4379.16 --> 4387.16] Your ring is shining, may I look to you. -[4387.16 --> 4394.16] And I the heart of all who dark in shadow. -[4402.16 --> 4409.16] For you, O Lord, my soul in stoneless ways, -[4409.16 --> 4416.16] Truly my hope is in you. -[4417.16 --> 4425.16] O spring of joy, bring down upon us, we lift, -[4425.16 --> 4432.16] Our thirsty waters are yearning for your word. -[4432.16 --> 4440.16] Come, make us whole, bring comfort to our hearts. -[4440.16 --> 4454.16] For you, O Lord, my soul in stoneless ways, -[4454.16 --> 4464.16] Truly my hope is in you. -[4464.16 --> 4466.16] O Lord, my soul in stoneless ways, -[4466.16 --> 4470.16] O Lord, my soul in stoneless ways, -[4470.16 --> 4478.16] And in your suffering draw us all to you. -[4478.16 --> 4480.16] Our hope reborn, our hope reborn, -[4480.16 --> 4485.16] Our hope reborn, in dying and in rising. -[4485.16 --> 4488.16] For you, O Lord, my soul in stoneless ways, -[4488.16 --> 4492.16] Truly my hope is in you. -[4492.16 --> 4500.16] For you, O Lord, my soul in stoneless ways, -[4500.16 --> 4506.16] Truly my hope is in you. -[4506.16 --> 4516.16] O key of knowledge, guide us in your pilgrimage, -[4516.16 --> 4522.16] We ever seek an unfulfilled remain. -[4522.16 --> 4532.16] O pray to us, O Lord, my soul in stoneless ways, -[4532.16 --> 4542.16] For you, O Lord, my soul in stoneless ways, -[4542.16 --> 4544.16] Truly my hope is in you. -[4544.16 --> 4546.16] O Lord, my soul in stoneless ways, -[4546.16 --> 4552.16] Truly my hope is in you. -[4552.16 --> 4560.16] O Lord, my soul in stoneless ways, -[4560.16 --> 4574.16] Truly my hope is in you. -[4582.16 --> 4586.16] O Lord, my and this is the part, -[4586.16 --> 4588.16] I is a inner place, -[4588.16 --> 4590.16] Thank God my기는. -[4590.16 --> 4592.18] Look Canyon, -[4592.18 --> 4594.16] Vie Thank food Amen! -[4595.16 --> 4595.54] Halemotion Eine from the advancing staff -[4595.54 --> 4598.14] And I know that our soul in stoneless years, -[4598.14 --> 4600.10] For you. -[4600.10 --> 4602.86] humility -[4603.16 --> 4605.10] I know that the fact of God can be dry. -[4605.12 --> 4606.16] Look remote, -[4606.16 --> 4608.10] I know about this good. -[4608.10 --> 4610.10] He's genuine B West-Lay one. -[4610.10 --> 4612.10] Jesus he is the people that have done you. diff --git a/Good Friday, April 18, 2025_summary.txt b/Good Friday, April 18, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index fc5ad670aa5856c3fd1654a72d496f61b086bbf9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Good Friday, April 18, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,29 +0,0 @@ -• Repetition of "thank you" -• Repetition of phrases like "take you", "save me", and "I'm waiting for you" -• References to God and Christ -• Invocation of a song or verse (verse 3) -• Mention of spending time with someone or something -• Statement about being with someone in the future -• The cross represents both forgiveness for sin and healing from it -• Salvation involves being made whole, not just forgiven -• Confession is a critical part of Christianity and healing from sin -• Repentance involves acknowledging one's sickness (sin) and seeking the doctor (Jesus) -• Healing from sin begins with confession and is followed by God's healing -• The cross makes salvation and healing possible through confession and submission to God's truth -• The cross is a change of status for those who recognize Jesus' innocence and sinlessness -• At the cross, the guilty are forgiven and become citizens of God's kingdom -• The death of Jesus on the cross means new life and salvation from sin -• The cross is necessary for forgiveness, healing, and a change of status in relationship to God -• There is a temptation to rush past the cross and focus on Easter Sunday instead of dwelling on its significance -• The power of the cross should not be rushed over, but rather stood at and reflected upon. -• Discussion of Christ's sacrifice on the cross -• Description of the natural phenomena that occurred during this time (darkness, earthquake) -• Jesus' final words and death on the cross -• Reaction of the centurion and the people who witnessed the crucifixion -• A hymn or song about being present at the crucifixion ("Were you there when they crucified my Lord?") -• References to a worship service and its conclusion -• Calibration -• Measurement instruments -• Accuracy and precision -• Uncertainty analysis -• Metrology standards \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Good Friday, April 18, 2025_transcript.txt b/Good Friday, April 18, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 46e07056582e97508b2e5ac8818c6222cb3b8df6..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Good Friday, April 18, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,368 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 599.98] Thank you. -[600.00 --> 629.98] Thank you. -[630.00 --> 659.96] Thank you. -[659.98 --> 689.94] Thank you. -[689.94 --> 719.94] Thank you. -[719.94 --> 749.94] -[749.94 --> 779.92] Thank you. -[779.92 --> 809.90] Thank you. -[809.92 --> 839.90] Thank you. -[839.92 --> 869.90] I cast you. -[869.90 --> 899.88] Oh, praise you. -[899.88 --> 929.86] Thank you. -[929.88 --> 959.86] Oh, praise you. -[959.86 --> 989.84] Oh, praise you. -[989.86 --> 1019.84] Thank you. -[1019.86 --> 1049.84] Thank you. -[1049.84 --> 1079.82] Thank you. -[1079.84 --> 1109.82] Thank you. -[1109.82 --> 1139.80] Thank you. -[1139.82 --> 1169.80] Thank you. -[1169.80 --> 1199.78] Thank you. -[1199.78 --> 1229.76] Thank you. -[1229.78 --> 1259.76] Thank you. -[1259.78 --> 1289.76] Thank you. -[1289.78 --> 1319.76] Thank you. -[1319.78 --> 1349.76] In verse 3. -[1349.76 --> 1379.74] Take you. -[1379.76 --> 1409.74] Thank you. -[1409.74 --> 1439.72] I invite you. -[1439.72 --> 1469.72] Thank you. -[1469.72 --> 1499.70] Thank you. -[1499.70 --> 1529.68] This next song. -[1529.68 --> 1559.66] Thank you. -[1559.66 --> 1589.64] Thank you. -[1589.64 --> 1619.62] Thank you. -[1619.62 --> 1649.60] Save me. -[1649.60 --> 1679.58] God, you. -[1679.58 --> 1709.56] Christ. -[1709.56 --> 1739.54] God, here, I'm waiting for you. -[1739.54 --> 1769.52] Thank you. -[1769.54 --> 1799.52] Thank you. -[1799.54 --> 1829.52] Thank you. -[1829.52 --> 1859.50] Thank you. -[1859.52 --> 1889.50] Thank you. -[1889.52 --> 1919.50] Thank you. -[1919.52 --> 1949.50] Thank you. -[1949.52 --> 1979.50] Thank you. -[1979.52 --> 2009.50] Thank you. -[2009.50 --> 2039.48] Thank you. -[2039.50 --> 2069.48] Thank you. -[2069.50 --> 2099.48] Thank you. -[2099.50 --> 2129.48] Thank you. -[2129.48 --> 2159.46] Thank you. -[2159.48 --> 2189.46] Thank you. -[2189.46 --> 2219.44] Thank you. -[2219.44 --> 2249.42] Thank you. -[2249.42 --> 2279.42] Thank you. -[2279.42 --> 2309.40] Thank you. -[2309.40 --> 2339.38] Thank you. -[2339.40 --> 2369.38] We're going to spend you. -[2369.38 --> 2399.36] Thank you. -[2399.36 --> 2429.34] Thank you. -[2429.34 --> 2459.32] And may this. -[2459.32 --> 2489.30] Thank you. -[2489.30 --> 2519.30] Thank you. -[2519.30 --> 2549.28] And they said, -[2549.28 --> 2579.26] And you're going to say, -[2579.26 --> 2609.24] you will be with me. -[2609.24 --> 2639.22] And you're going to say, -[2639.22 --> 2669.20] I want to say, -[2669.20 --> 2699.18] He's been, you're going to say, -[2699.18 --> 2729.16] and you're going to say, -[2729.18 --> 2759.16] or who have, you're going to say, -[2759.18 --> 2789.16] and you're going to say, -[2789.16 --> 2819.16] here. -[2819.16 --> 2849.14] And you're going to say, -[2849.14 --> 2879.12] among the trans, you're going to say, -[2879.12 --> 2909.10] they came to the, you're going to say, -[2909.10 --> 2939.10] there, and you're going to say, -[2939.10 --> 2969.10] and you're going to say, -[2969.10 --> 2999.10] and you're going to say, -[2999.10 --> 3029.08] on the, you're going to say, -[3029.10 --> 3059.10] and you're going to say, -[3059.10 --> 3089.08] and you're going to say, -[3089.10 --> 3119.10] that we want to say, -[3119.10 --> 3149.08] we know we're going to say, -[3149.10 --> 3179.10] and you're going to say, -[3179.10 --> 3181.10] and you're going to say, -[3181.10 --> 3209.08] and you're going to say, -[3209.10 --> 3239.08] and I'm going to say, -[3239.10 --> 3241.10] and you're going to say, -[3241.10 --> 3243.10] and you're going to say, -[3243.10 --> 3245.10] and you're going to say, -[3245.10 --> 3247.10] and you're going to say, -[3247.10 --> 3249.10] and you're going to say, -[3249.10 --> 3253.10] and you're going to say, and you're going to say, -[3253.10 --> 3255.10] and you're going to say, -[3255.10 --> 3257.10] and you're going to say, -[3257.10 --> 3259.10] and you're going to say, -[3259.10 --> 3261.10] and you're going to say, -[3261.10 --> 3263.10] and you're going to say, -[3263.10 --> 3265.10] and you're going to say, -[3265.10 --> 3267.10] save yourselves, and you're going to say, -[3267.10 --> 3275.94] said, aren't you the Messiah? Save yourself and save us. Notice in those instances, right, all the -[3275.94 --> 3281.80] different titles of Jesus that are being thrown about. The Christ of God. Christ is the Greek -[3281.80 --> 3288.72] word for Messiah, right? The chosen one, the king of the Jews. Now, all of these ideas and titles, -[3288.72 --> 3297.56] Christ, Messiah, chosen one, king, all of them in this moment are tied to salvation. But in the end, -[3297.64 --> 3309.36] not necessarily to save himself, but to save those whom he forgives. Now, quickly, of the 18 times that -[3309.36 --> 3317.00] Luke uses the word save, four of them are in this text, and five of them are understood not as -[3317.00 --> 3325.20] salvation as we know it, but as healed, as made well, as being made whole. The same rough breakdown -[3325.20 --> 3331.06] happens in Matthew. He uses the word 15 times. Three times it means healed and made well. Mark uses the -[3331.06 --> 3337.06] word 14 times, and five times it means healed and made well. And I belabor this because there's -[3337.06 --> 3344.46] something about salvation that includes being made well. And so what are we seeing here? The cross -[3344.46 --> 3354.60] isn't just forgiveness for sin, right? The cross is also healing, being made well from sin. At the cross -[3354.60 --> 3364.22] of Jesus is healing from sin. Jesus said in Luke 5, it's not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. -[3364.72 --> 3372.48] I've not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. And in some ways, sin is like a sickness -[3372.48 --> 3379.12] that we need to be healed from. And Jesus is the doctor. Repentance involves bringing your sickness -[3379.12 --> 3384.94] to the doctor, opening up your wounding to the healer, carrying your trauma to the cross. -[3386.30 --> 3394.14] Salvation and the salvation of the cross is a kind of healing. The same sin that keeps us separated from -[3394.14 --> 3403.34] a relationship with God can only be healed by God. And the beginning of healing from sin that comes from the cross -[3403.34 --> 3412.70] of Jesus is confession. And again, we've mentioned this word already, but sometimes people hear the word -[3412.70 --> 3420.06] confession, and they've got all sorts of ideas and baggage that comes with it. But confession is critical to -[3420.06 --> 3427.50] right Christianity, and it is core to what it means to be a disciple of Jesus, right? Confessing isn't -[3427.50 --> 3433.28] about beating yourself up in public or hating yourself in private, although maybe too many of us practice -[3433.28 --> 3442.04] confession that way. I love the way that John Mark Comer describes it. He says that confession is about -[3442.04 --> 3448.90] courageously naming your woundedness and wickedness in the presence of a loving community as you journey -[3448.90 --> 3461.46] together towards wholeness. And in confession, it isn't only about your sin. It's also a confession about -[3461.46 --> 3472.10] what is true, about who you are in all of its darkness and brokenness, but also who Jesus is, and into that -[3472.10 --> 3479.70] moment, right? Who you are in Jesus. It's about taking all of those hidden things and exposing them to Jesus -[3479.70 --> 3489.24] and to trusted others. And then in that moment, still experiencing love and acceptance. It's about crawling -[3489.24 --> 3498.28] out of the pit of shame and basking in the light of the gospel. Confession is your part in dealing with sin, -[3498.28 --> 3507.84] and God's part is the healing that follows. The cross makes that possible. We confess our secrets. -[3508.28 --> 3517.88] He heals us from sin. The cross and our confession, the cross and our healing invite us to set all of who -[3517.88 --> 3525.84] we are before all of who God is. And just like when you go to the doctor, you can expect healing for -[3525.84 --> 3533.64] abdominal pain only if you tell her, I've got a sore tummy. Right? We need to confess to God in order to -[3533.64 --> 3542.52] receive healing. The more we hide, the less we heal. So as you sit here tonight, are you looking for -[3542.52 --> 3547.46] salvation? Are you looking for healing? Are you looking for something more than this brokenness, right? -[3547.52 --> 3552.72] And brokenness more in both in your heart and in your mind, brokenness in the world around you? -[3552.72 --> 3560.58] If you're looking, try confession. On the promise of God's word, try confession. James 5 verse 16 says, -[3560.98 --> 3566.24] therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. -[3566.96 --> 3573.14] Notice those words together again. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. -[3574.30 --> 3581.16] And Psalm 32 is so beautiful here. Psalm 32, the psalmist says, -[3581.16 --> 3588.12] when I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand -[3588.12 --> 3596.32] was heavy on me. My strength was sapped as in the heat of summer. Then, then I acknowledged my sin to -[3596.32 --> 3602.54] you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, I will confess my transgressions to the Lord and you -[3602.54 --> 3615.80] forgave the guilt of my sin. Confession is putting to death sin in your life by exposing it to the light -[3615.80 --> 3626.10] of the gospel. At the cross of Jesus, healing from sin is made possible by your confession and because of -[3626.10 --> 3638.32] his love. And then lastly, look at verse 40. In verse 40, the criminal rebuked the other and said, -[3638.44 --> 3645.94] do you fear or don't you fear God since we are under the same sentence? We are punished justly for we -[3645.94 --> 3654.04] are getting what our deeds deserve, but this man has done nothing wrong. Right? This man recognizes that -[3654.04 --> 3662.82] justice for him requires his death. Right? And fear of God in this moment is submission to the truth. -[3663.54 --> 3669.94] The truth of who he is. Right? Don't you fear God isn't him saying you should be scared of what comes -[3669.94 --> 3678.74] next. It's him saying, I accept what comes next because I submit myself to God. This man is recognizing -[3678.74 --> 3686.32] I did evil in the sight of God and my death is just. This is what we deserve. And at the same time, -[3686.42 --> 3692.86] he is recognizing that Jesus is innocent of any wrongdoing, innocent of any crime, innocent of any -[3692.86 --> 3700.00] sin. And so we're beginning to see that at the cross of Jesus, in the third point to answer our question, -[3700.12 --> 3704.74] at the cross of Jesus is a change of status because of sin. -[3704.74 --> 3712.16] To the guilty man who hangs beside him but has recognized Jesus for who he really is. To the man -[3712.16 --> 3719.24] who cries out in his own dying, Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom. To that man, -[3719.60 --> 3730.00] Jesus says, truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise. In one moment, at a word from his -[3730.00 --> 3737.78] savior, he goes from a rebel and a murderer to a brother. From an insurrectionist against Rome to a -[3737.78 --> 3745.96] citizen of God's paradise, a citizen of God's kingdom. I love the way we read it in Galatians. -[3746.68 --> 3753.50] In Galatians, the apostle Paul, reflecting on a truth like this, says, I have been crucified with Christ -[3753.50 --> 3761.80] and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live, I live in the body. I live by faith -[3761.80 --> 3769.88] in the son of God who loved me and gave himself up for me. Or in Romans, and way back at the beginning -[3769.88 --> 3776.10] of this Lenten season, at our Ash Wednesday service, we read this text. And so the journey has now come -[3776.10 --> 3783.04] full circle. For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin -[3783.04 --> 3790.42] might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin because anyone who has died has -[3790.42 --> 3799.26] been set free from sin. Why is the cross necessary for salvation? Because the death of Jesus means your -[3799.26 --> 3806.10] new life. This is the core of the gospel, right? That Jesus lived the life I should have lived. -[3806.44 --> 3812.22] That Jesus died the death that I deserved. And that because of his death on the cross, I am changed -[3812.22 --> 3822.06] forever. My status because of sin is undone and I am made something new. My healing, my salvation from sin -[3822.06 --> 3831.30] is accomplished and I live wholly now, purposefully in shalom with God my Father. And my forgiveness for -[3831.30 --> 3840.74] sin is real because my confession is real. A genuine conversion because of an authentic confession. -[3840.74 --> 3852.50] And there is a temptation. There is a temptation that is in front of us all in this moment right now. -[3853.62 --> 3863.66] A temptation to rush past the cross of Good Friday through quickly the confusion of Holy Saturday -[3863.66 --> 3867.86] in order to get to the joy of Resurrection Sunday. -[3870.86 --> 3874.98] And let me be really clear. Sunday is coming. -[3876.42 --> 3885.90] Sunday is coming. Nothing you can do or don't do will stop Sunday from coming. But precisely because -[3885.90 --> 3892.70] Sunday is coming, slow down now. Stop. -[3896.06 --> 3905.50] Stand at the foot of the cross and marvel that the cross is necessary for your forgiveness. -[3906.30 --> 3914.38] The cross is necessary for your healing. And the cross is necessary for your change of status, -[3914.38 --> 3924.62] your very identity in relationship to God, your Father. This is the power of the cross. And so don't rush past it. -[3926.62 --> 3927.26] Instead, -[3928.94 --> 3929.50] together, -[3930.30 --> 3932.62] let's cling to it. Amen? -[3933.74 --> 3934.42] Let's pray. -[3934.42 --> 3934.48] Amen. -[3934.48 --> 3934.54] Amen. -[3934.54 --> 3934.60] Amen. -[3934.60 --> 3934.74] Amen. -[3934.74 --> 3936.60] Amen. -[3936.60 --> 3938.60] Amen. -[3938.60 --> 3938.68] Amen. -[3938.68 --> 3940.60] Amen. -[3940.60 --> 3940.68] Amen. -[3940.68 --> 3942.68] Amen. -[3942.68 --> 3942.74] Amen. -[3942.74 --> 3943.74] Amen. -[3943.74 --> 3944.36] Amen. -[3944.38 --> 3946.10] God, our Heavenly Father, -[3946.10 --> 3949.34] by your gift of grace, -[3950.60 --> 3952.04] by your working faith, -[3952.16 --> 3954.16] we cling to the cross. -[3957.74 --> 3960.48] This is the power of the cross. -[3963.88 --> 3965.30] In this moment, -[3965.30 --> 3968.26] may we not rush past the truth. -[3970.30 --> 3971.64] In this moment, -[3971.78 --> 3974.36] may we not -[3974.36 --> 3978.14] push back the confusion, -[3978.14 --> 3986.70] but may we stand and reflect on the truth of the cross, -[3986.70 --> 3989.04] the truth of the gospel. -[3989.04 --> 3991.48] May we not be ashamed of the gospel, -[3991.48 --> 3994.58] for it is the power of God unto salvation. -[3994.58 --> 3996.08] God, our Lord, -[3996.08 --> 3998.76] we cling to the cross. -[3998.76 --> 3999.46] Lord, to your cross, -[4000.26 --> 4000.78] we cling. -[4001.84 --> 4003.44] In Jesus' name we pray. -[4004.34 --> 4004.74] Amen. -[4004.74 --> 4004.82] Amen. -[4004.82 --> 4015.38] We pray to rise and sing with us. -[4015.38 --> 4044.08] Christ on the road to Calvary -[4045.38 --> 4049.78] Tried by sinful men -[4049.78 --> 4054.08] Torn and beaten men -[4054.08 --> 4061.24] Billed to a cross of wood -[4061.24 --> 4070.10] This the power of the cross -[4070.10 --> 4074.10] Christ became -[4074.10 --> 4078.02] Sin for us -[4078.02 --> 4082.00] Took the blame -[4082.00 --> 4084.42] Bore the wrath -[4084.42 --> 4087.06] We stand forgiven -[4087.06 --> 4091.10] At the cross -[4091.10 --> 4103.00] Oh to see the name -[4103.00 --> 4107.20] Written on your face -[4107.20 --> 4115.10] Bearing the awesome weight of sin -[4115.10 --> 4119.18] Every bitter thought -[4119.18 --> 4123.20] Every evil deed -[4123.20 --> 4128.86] Crowning your bloodstained ground -[4128.86 --> 4136.86] This the power of the cross -[4136.86 --> 4140.18] Christ became -[4140.18 --> 4144.86] Sin for us -[4144.86 --> 4148.78] Took the blame -[4148.78 --> 4151.70] For the wrath -[4151.70 --> 4153.62] Quased and forgiven -[4153.62 --> 4157.62] At the cross -[4157.62 --> 4169.90] Now the daylight flees -[4169.90 --> 4173.54] Now the ground beneath -[4173.54 --> 4178.00] Quakes as its maker -[4178.00 --> 4182.00] Bows its head -[4182.00 --> 4186.00] Curtain torn in two -[4186.00 --> 4191.40] Dead are raised to life -[4191.40 --> 4196.00] Finish the victory cry -[4196.00 --> 4206.00] Christ is the power of the cross -[4206.00 --> 4207.92] Christ became -[4207.92 --> 4211.92] Sin for us -[4211.92 --> 4215.84] Took the blame -[4215.84 --> 4219.18] For the wrath -[4219.18 --> 4221.66] Is yet forgiven -[4221.66 --> 4224.24] At the cross -[4224.24 --> 4244.12] Following this next reading -[4244.12 --> 4245.32] We will sing -[4245.32 --> 4246.28] We will sing one more song -[4246.28 --> 4247.08] And at the conclusion -[4247.08 --> 4247.82] Of that song -[4247.82 --> 4249.00] I invite you to -[4249.00 --> 4250.96] Leave in reflection -[4250.96 --> 4252.14] Together -[4252.14 --> 4253.98] So leave together -[4253.98 --> 4255.14] In silence -[4255.14 --> 4256.16] And if you want to connect -[4256.16 --> 4256.68] And talk -[4256.68 --> 4257.74] It's beautiful outside -[4257.74 --> 4259.10] We encourage you to do that -[4259.10 --> 4260.18] But perhaps -[4260.18 --> 4261.68] Maybe you want to sit -[4261.68 --> 4262.86] And reflect -[4262.86 --> 4264.10] For a moment longer -[4264.10 --> 4265.16] And so this space -[4265.16 --> 4266.22] Will be available -[4266.22 --> 4266.94] For a little while -[4266.94 --> 4267.84] For you to do that -[4267.84 --> 4269.14] Following our worship -[4269.14 --> 4269.80] Together -[4269.80 --> 4276.52] It was now -[4276.52 --> 4277.30] About noon -[4277.30 --> 4279.18] And darkness -[4279.18 --> 4280.70] Came over the whole land -[4280.70 --> 4282.38] Until three in the afternoon -[4282.38 --> 4283.52] For the sun -[4283.52 --> 4284.54] Had stopped shining -[4284.54 --> 4286.14] And the curtain -[4286.14 --> 4286.76] Of the temple -[4286.76 --> 4287.80] Was torn in two -[4287.80 --> 4289.36] And Jesus called out -[4289.36 --> 4290.38] With a loud voice -[4290.38 --> 4291.08] Father -[4291.08 --> 4292.52] Into your hands -[4292.52 --> 4293.76] I commit my spirit -[4293.76 --> 4296.80] And when he had said this -[4296.80 --> 4299.26] He breathed his last -[4299.26 --> 4305.22] And the centurion -[4305.22 --> 4308.32] Seeing what had happened -[4308.32 --> 4310.14] Praised God -[4310.14 --> 4311.36] And said -[4311.36 --> 4312.42] Surely this -[4312.42 --> 4314.20] Was a righteous man -[4314.20 --> 4315.86] And when all the people -[4315.86 --> 4316.42] Who had gathered -[4316.42 --> 4317.52] To witness this sight -[4317.52 --> 4318.66] Saw what took place -[4318.66 --> 4320.04] They beat their breasts -[4320.04 --> 4320.86] And went away -[4320.86 --> 4323.56] But all those who knew him -[4323.56 --> 4325.72] Including the women -[4325.72 --> 4326.64] Who had followed him -[4326.64 --> 4327.34] From Galilee -[4327.34 --> 4329.38] Stood at a distance -[4329.38 --> 4330.72] Watching -[4330.72 --> 4332.06] These things -[4332.06 --> 4332.56] Like this -[4332.56 --> 4342.72] So -[4342.72 --> 4344.94] Where the whoever -[4344.94 --> 4345.78] Was a Christian -[4345.78 --> 4345.96] Who had recognized -[4345.96 --> 4346.46] I be -[4346.46 --> 4348.00] I eat -[4348.00 --> 4350.00] And菜 -[4350.00 --> 4350.68] Would -[4350.68 --> 4353.00] Who had -[4353.00 --> 4353.84] Is -[4353.84 --> 4356.84] On a -[4357.04 --> 4357.08] To -[4357.08 --> 4359.08] Amen. -[4387.08 --> 4404.08] When they crucified my Lord, were you there when they crucified my Lord? -[4404.08 --> 4422.08] Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble. -[4422.08 --> 4433.08] Were you there when they crucified my Lord? -[4433.08 --> 4442.08] Were you there when they nailed Him to the tree? -[4442.08 --> 4454.08] Were you there when they nailed Him to the tree? -[4454.08 --> 4472.08] Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble. -[4472.08 --> 4481.08] Were you there when they nailed Him to the tree? -[4481.08 --> 4496.08] Were you there when they laid Him in the tomb? -[4496.08 --> 4507.08] Were you there when they laid Him in the tomb? -[4507.08 --> 4526.08] Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble. -[4526.08 --> 4541.08] Were you there when they laid Him in the tomb? -[4556.08 --> 4557.08] Okay. -[4557.08 --> 4563.08] Is that how you wear his train or your which is zweite, the ink When the tree rub reads? -[4563.08 --> 4565.08] Ah! -[4565.08 --> 4571.08] I had a string of interfaces then myself in indoctrometers. diff --git a/Hearers and Doers (Sermon)_summary.txt b/Hearers and Doers (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f8baa10bc4efdabe409bf6a505656dc235da1418..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Hearers and Doers (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,28 +0,0 @@ -• The importance of responding to God's word -• The story of a young boy who learned not just to hear but also to respond to his father's warning -• James 1:19-27, emphasizing the need to be quick to listen and slow to speak or become angry -• The difference between hearing and responding to God's word -• The call to live differently, rather than following a checklist of dos and don'ts -• The three parts of the text in James 1:19-27: receive, respond, and resolve (or accept, act, and abide) -• Accepting God's word and the importance of listening -• The dangers of anger and its impact on spiritual growth -• James' emphasis on putting off evil, including wrath, to receive God's word -• The need to respond to received knowledge with action and obedience -• Faith and deeds are inseparable, and faith must lead to obedient actions -• The importance of faith and action in relation to God's word -• James' analogy of looking into a mirror to illustrate the need for obedience and repentance -• The concept of God's law as a perfect law of liberty that frees us through Christ's life, death, and resurrection -• The distinction between being blessed by our deeds vs. being blessed in our deeds as a result of faith in Christ -• The role of confession and repentance in response to God's calling -• The connection between faith and action, with the latter not saving us but rather a response to God's grace -• The importance of abiding in God's word rather than just responding occasionally -• Warning against checklist theology and the dangers of vain religion -• Tradition vs traditionalism: importance of living out faith with grace and mercy -• Importance of keeping oneself from being polluted by the world -• Influence of Western culture as a fast-moving current that can sweep people away from living like Christ followers -• Need to root ourselves in Scripture's narrative and equip ourselves to push back against cultural currents -• The speaker thanks God for the gospel and the truth of Jesus Christ -• The importance of accepting the Word and living according to it -• The need to act on faith and respond to God's call -• The desire to abide in the truth and make it a new reality in life -• A prayer request for the Holy Spirit to work in hearts to live out this truth \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Hearers and Doers (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/Hearers and Doers (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index e876b31aa3c278bef8942063e3328604e2d69004..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Hearers and Doers (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,239 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 5.94] I bet you some of you thought that little care groups plug was going to be my sermon today, -[6.04 --> 11.64] but it's not. There's more. So thank you for joining us as we open up the word today. -[11.92 --> 17.42] When I was four years old or so, I went to the bank with my dad. It was in Edmonton, -[17.42 --> 21.92] and it was in the middle of the winter. Now, I don't remember how cold it was, -[22.38 --> 27.82] but Edmonton in the wintertime is not the French Riviera. It was cold enough that my dad, -[27.82 --> 32.40] as wise as he is, he wanted to make sure that I didn't do anything dumb. -[33.36 --> 36.56] And so we got out of the car, and my dad grabbed my shoulders, and he looked me in the eye. He's like, -[36.60 --> 44.22] Kevin, don't lick the poles. Now, looking back, I understand how good this advice was. -[44.38 --> 50.30] At the time, though, that stop sign post sure looked like a cream soda-flavored Icy Pop. -[51.28 --> 54.88] And now I was motivated by the urge to lick something, and I thought, well, -[54.88 --> 61.38] what's the worst that could happen? So my dad turned his back. Now, sometimes hearing something -[61.38 --> 69.24] isn't enough. We need to respond. So it turns out, in what I can only assume was negative 45-degree -[69.24 --> 76.04] weather, your tongue sticks to posts faster than you can say, Dad, watch this. I instantly regretted it, -[76.46 --> 82.10] and I should have listened. Well, my dad, as heroic as he is, he said, Son, I'm going to run inside -[82.10 --> 87.06] that building. I'll be gone for a second. I'm going to get some water. Don't move. I'll be right back. -[87.40 --> 94.00] Your tongue will come off that post. Don't move. Now, again, in the midst of a crisis, it's amazing -[94.00 --> 100.46] what you hear and what is actually said. Now, somehow, my dad saying, don't move. I'll be right -[100.46 --> 106.22] back. You're going to be okay. It must have sounded like, son, rip your tongue off that pole. Do it with -[106.22 --> 112.20] vigor. Don't let the taste of blood stop you. And so I pulled, and I twisted, and I ripped, -[112.60 --> 118.04] and off my tongue came. Well, most of it anyways. About three centimeters got left behind. -[119.44 --> 127.34] My tongue is still a little shorter to this day. The point is, we can hear. We can maybe even -[127.34 --> 135.66] understand. But if we don't respond, it really doesn't do us any good. Today, we're continuing -[135.66 --> 142.62] our sermon series through James, and today's text is about responding. Now, not only will we hear today -[142.62 --> 147.96] our monthly memory verse, which is exciting, we're also going to hear the name of this sermon series. -[148.32 --> 154.56] So we're going to look at the last section of this first chapter of James, so the final nine verses -[154.56 --> 159.32] of James 1. So please, at home, here today as well, pull out your Bibles, pull out your notebooks, -[159.50 --> 166.54] your pens, anything else that you need to nestle into this text and read along with me. James 1, -[167.04 --> 176.00] 19 to 27, reads like this. My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this. Everyone should be quick -[176.00 --> 184.28] to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness -[184.28 --> 192.08] that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent, -[192.68 --> 200.52] and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. Do not merely listen to the word, -[200.60 --> 206.16] and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says -[206.16 --> 212.78] is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror, and after looking at himself, goes away, -[212.78 --> 219.30] and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that -[219.30 --> 225.22] gives freedom and continues in it, not forgetting what they've heard but doing it, they will be -[225.22 --> 231.24] blessed in what they do. Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight -[231.24 --> 238.66] rein on their tongue deceives themselves, and their religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father -[238.66 --> 247.24] accepts as pure and faultless is this, to look after orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep -[247.24 --> 257.10] oneself from being polluted from this world. The word of God today. Now like Pastor Chris said -[257.10 --> 263.58] throughout this series, he said this numerous times, James can sometimes come across as a book -[263.58 --> 269.94] with a lot of do's and a lot of don'ts, and it becomes easy for us to hear a passage like this -[269.94 --> 276.26] and feel a little bogged down perhaps with what James is saying. The truth is though, it's quite the -[276.26 --> 282.88] opposite. God is not calling us to live our lives operating off of some monumental checklist, keeping -[282.88 --> 289.64] track of the deeds we do and the sins that we commit. This is not a book about calling us to do more, -[289.64 --> 297.38] but rather it's a book about calling us to live differently. James is a book of response, and -[297.38 --> 303.98] today's passage is that message. We're called to respond to the word of God. Like I learned when I -[303.98 --> 311.04] dislodged a piece of my tongue at the ripe old age of four, responding is vital. Not just hearing, -[311.68 --> 319.06] not simply acknowledging what we hear, but doing something about it. James helps us figure out how to do that. -[319.64 --> 325.14] So this is what we're going to walk through today. God calls us to live a new way of life, -[325.14 --> 332.14] but we cannot do that if we do not respond to God's word, and we cannot respond to God's word -[332.14 --> 340.08] unless we hear and listen to what he says. This is precisely how this text today breaks down. There are -[340.08 --> 348.04] three chunks to this text, and each part works through this pattern of receive, respond, and resolve, -[348.04 --> 355.30] or if you like A words, accept, act, and abide. So let's look at each one of these paragraphs separately, -[355.52 --> 360.46] and we'll see how they move from accepting to responding to then transforming. -[362.30 --> 366.22] All right, the first chunk first, because that's what makes sense. James 1, 19 to 21, -[366.32 --> 370.94] my dear brothers and sisters, take note of this. Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, -[371.00 --> 376.14] and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. -[376.14 --> 383.06] Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent, and humbly accept the word -[383.06 --> 391.54] planted in you which can save you. See that verse 21? We are to humbly accept the word planted in us -[391.54 --> 398.66] which can save us. This paragraph is about accepting the word. We must be quick to listen -[398.66 --> 404.58] so that we can accept the word of God that has been planted in us to save us. However, we can't -[404.58 --> 410.38] accept that word if we're not listening. He says we are to be quick to listen, and I mean, that makes sense. -[411.04 --> 414.72] We can't accept what we don't hear. If we don't listen, we don't understand. -[414.72 --> 424.20] It's interesting how he also says, though, be slow to speak, and be slow to become angry. -[426.38 --> 430.96] We humans, we can be so good at talking, can't we? We love to be heard, and if you're like me, -[431.22 --> 436.14] you've got this loud, obnoxious voice that can fill a room, and you like to talk. -[436.14 --> 445.38] Unfortunately, it's really hard to listen when you're so busy talking. Just ask my daughters. -[447.32 --> 452.32] The author of Ecclesiastes, most likely Solomon, he knew this too when he wrote, -[452.62 --> 459.80] the words of the wise heard in silence are better than the shouting of a ruler among fools. -[459.80 --> 469.12] We think of our culture where we are constantly distracted. We fill our lives up with noise, -[469.82 --> 473.60] where solitude is hard, perhaps even impossible to find. -[475.78 --> 483.44] Most of us can afford to be slower to speak, perhaps even be silent. -[483.44 --> 493.46] Anger, too, it has a way of making us unable to listen. When we get angry or we get frustrated -[493.46 --> 498.56] with others, it easily makes us stubborn and even prideful. Rather than listening in love, -[498.78 --> 505.22] when we are disagreeing with each other, anger can boil up. That's why in 1 Corinthians 13, -[505.34 --> 507.88] when Paul is going over what love is, he says, -[507.88 --> 513.68] love does not insist on its own way. It is not irritable or resentful. -[516.02 --> 520.46] Now, while this is a calling for us to rid ourselves of all anger and angry expression -[520.46 --> 525.72] in our lives, there is room for feelings of anger, as long as it is righteous anger. However, -[525.96 --> 530.20] I don't want to lengthen that leash longer than it needs to be, because the reality is, -[530.20 --> 540.28] we are very, very, very seldom, seldomly, sorry, in a position where righteous anger is called for. -[542.22 --> 549.56] So while we do well to feel angry sometimes, most often we choose the wrong time. -[551.56 --> 558.24] James says, get rid of anger. Here he is. The reason James highlights anger so much is because -[558.24 --> 565.06] of the extreme negative impact it can have on God's calling for our lives. The call to be holy and -[565.06 --> 571.62] righteous. The call to live in community and love our neighbors. The call for truth and for love. -[573.78 --> 578.48] Henry Drummond, he speaks of this negative impact of anger so wonderfully in his book, -[578.84 --> 580.62] The Greatest Thing in the World. He writes this, -[580.62 --> 590.10] No form of vice, not worldliness, not greed of gold, not drunkenness itself, does more to -[590.10 --> 599.02] unchristianize society than evil temper. For embittering life, for breaking up communities, -[599.44 --> 605.98] for destroying the most sacred relationships, for devastating homes, for withering up men and -[605.98 --> 616.62] women, for taking the bloom off of childhood. In short, for sheer, gratuitous, misery-producing power. -[618.06 --> 620.50] This influence of anger stands alone. -[623.44 --> 630.06] Anger destroys. And to the point of this text today, if you have anger in your life towards someone, -[630.06 --> 635.00] someone that you know well or someone that you know poorly, it doesn't matter. James says, -[635.12 --> 641.90] if you are angry, you do not have the ability to accept God's word which saves us. -[643.90 --> 650.72] John Calvin says it too. He says, as long as wrath bears rule, there is no place for the righteousness of -[650.72 --> 658.30] God. So in order to fully receive the word, we must put off all types of evil, especially wrath. -[658.30 --> 665.48] Only then will we be able to accept Christ's word and have it fully implanted in our lives, -[665.62 --> 668.02] which saves our souls. -[670.28 --> 676.52] But, as the title of this sermon series says, we need to be more than simply just hearers. -[677.14 --> 684.32] We must be doers as well. Reception is only step one. We must now respond as well. -[684.32 --> 687.72] And the second chunk gets to that. Verse 22 to 25 says this. -[688.08 --> 693.54] Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. -[694.58 --> 699.84] Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a -[699.84 --> 706.28] mirror, and after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. -[706.28 --> 711.88] But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom and continues in it, -[712.00 --> 718.26] not forgetting what they heard, but doing it, they will be blessed in what they do. -[721.36 --> 725.92] Now, sometimes people get in a bit of a huff because James calls us to do here, and then they -[725.92 --> 730.56] will counter by saying, well, hang on a second. The apostle Paul, he says faith alone saves. -[730.56 --> 737.30] So how can James say otherwise? But listen to what Paul says in Romans 2.13. -[737.68 --> 742.48] For it is not those who hear the law that are righteous in God's sight, but it is those who -[742.48 --> 747.82] obey the law who will be declared righteous. See, they aren't that different. Paul and James -[747.82 --> 753.84] aren't saying different things here. Listening must always lead to action, receiving to responding. -[754.08 --> 760.10] Faith must always lead to deeds. They go hand in hand. You cannot separate them. To have faith is to -[760.10 --> 766.64] obey. To obey is to have faith. Hearing is important, but it's not enough. We must respond. -[767.16 --> 775.52] We must be doers. This is so important. Sometimes we get stuck here. We get stuck, but it's not enough -[775.52 --> 781.68] to read the Bible. It's not enough to remember what it says or praise its contents or write down in our -[781.68 --> 789.40] journals to reflect on later again. All of that is good, but it's only good as phase one. It's only good -[789.40 --> 804.34] if we do what we hear. Faith saves. Faith without action, though, is just knowledge. And knowledge -[804.34 --> 807.34] without obedience is useless. -[807.34 --> 816.32] James uses the imagery of a person who looks in a mirror to highlight this point. And he says, -[816.40 --> 820.44] the one who hears the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at himself in a -[820.44 --> 824.98] mirror but instantly forgets what they look like. Now, perhaps that's a strange analogy to hear at -[824.98 --> 832.08] first, but it is a brilliant one. See, when we look into a mirror, we see our face. We see its reflection. -[832.08 --> 838.66] We see how God created us to look. But we also see the dirt and the muck and the mire. -[840.40 --> 847.04] It shows up as spots that need washing. If we look in the mirror and then go away and forget to wash off -[847.04 --> 855.16] the dirt, forgetting what we look like, what good was the mirror? But if we look at the mirror and we -[855.16 --> 862.80] remember where the dirt is, we can be clean. This is an analogy that's not about vanity and it's not -[862.80 --> 870.76] about self-admiration. It's a call to repentance. It's a call to confession. We listen to the word. -[871.06 --> 875.58] And when we do that, we will hear God's voice calling us to repent of the things that make us -[875.58 --> 882.68] sinful. Like our reflection in a mirror, God's word will bring to light the areas in our life -[882.68 --> 888.58] that we need to give back to God in repentance. If we listen to God's word, -[889.90 --> 896.52] and the dirt in our life gets revealed, but we do nothing about it. If we don't repent, -[896.60 --> 901.30] if we don't ask God to wash it away, what's good is hearing the word? -[903.46 --> 910.72] Our sins are the spots that the mirror of the word of God reveals. Only Christ's blood washes that sin -[910.72 --> 915.68] away. When we repent, we are cleansed. Our sin is washed. That is how we are to respond, -[916.08 --> 921.82] especially during this season of Lent. May we remember the cost of that sin. May we remember -[921.82 --> 929.72] the dirt on our face. May we remember what Ash Wednesday represents. And may we give it all to -[929.72 --> 939.00] Christ. James says that when we look intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, -[940.00 --> 945.44] that is when we are blessed in what we do. Now, I like what the ESV translation says here a little -[945.44 --> 952.60] bit better. That translation says, he who looks into the perfect law of liberty, he will be blessed in -[952.60 --> 960.70] his doing. I like to highlight two things about that little chunk. First is this. The law of liberty -[960.70 --> 969.98] is God's perfect law, which Christ came and fulfilled. Law and liberty, they kind of contradict each other -[969.98 --> 976.30] in our language, don't they? Law restricts us. It tells us the speed limits we're to drive, the places -[976.30 --> 983.88] we can and cannot go, the things we can and cannot do. But liberty, liberty frees us, allowing us to -[983.88 --> 989.28] break the chains of bondage. Everyone wants liberty. And while most of us understand laws and approve of -[989.28 --> 995.62] laws and see the good in laws, they are restricting. They restrict what we can do. Never has this been -[995.62 --> 1000.00] more prevalent to me than during this pandemic. Laws are restricting. And while we do our best to -[1000.00 --> 1005.90] abide by them and see the importance of them, then do we await the liberty where we can be free from -[1005.90 --> 1013.42] those restrictions? This is what's so beautiful about this passage and this language that James uses here. -[1013.82 --> 1022.16] God's law is the perfect law of liberty. By saying this, James highlights how God's law frees us. -[1023.74 --> 1030.46] We do not need to be free from the law. We are free because of the law. This is counterintuitive for -[1030.46 --> 1037.00] our culture. Jesus says, if you hold to my teachings, you are really my disciples. -[1038.08 --> 1042.52] Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free. -[1044.00 --> 1049.36] If we hold to Jesus' teachings to love God and love your neighbor as yourself, the same law -[1049.36 --> 1054.46] that God gave Moses, we will know the truth and the truth will set us free. -[1054.46 --> 1066.36] The beauty of it all is that God's law liberates because God's Son is already liberated. Christ lived -[1066.36 --> 1071.98] a perfect life and then he died on the cross for us all. He fulfilled the law because his death -[1071.98 --> 1078.88] was ours to die. And then he rose again from the grave, defeating sin and death until he comes out, -[1078.88 --> 1088.04] comes once and for all for the perfect redemption of all the cosmos, where God gets eternal glory. -[1089.26 --> 1095.12] That is why our response is one of repentance and confession, because when we confess to the one -[1095.12 --> 1105.60] who has already saved, we are free. And when we respond to God's calling in love, to him and to others, -[1105.60 --> 1114.56] God's perfect law of liberty frees us through Christ's life, death and resurrection. Amen. -[1115.76 --> 1119.54] That's not the end of the sermon. That's just an amen moment. There's more. The second part of that line -[1119.54 --> 1125.70] is equally as beautiful. Our response in faith is one of repentance that frees us. And when we are free, -[1125.70 --> 1135.52] hear this, we are blessed in our doing. That little two-letter word is so important. Notice James does not say -[1135.52 --> 1142.80] we are blessed by our doing. We are not saved by what we do. We are only saved by faith in Christ. -[1142.80 --> 1152.28] We are not blessed by our deeds. What we are is blessed in our deeds. While our deeds do not save us, -[1152.36 --> 1157.90] and we are not blessed because we do them, we are blessed in doing them. -[1159.48 --> 1164.80] James is clear. It's not grace by works. It's grace by our perfect Savior, Jesus Christ. However, we are blessed -[1164.80 --> 1170.86] in the deeds we do as a response to that grace. It's beautiful language, and it's very important -[1170.86 --> 1175.10] to wrap our heads around here. There's going to be a lot more on this in future sermons, so I'm going -[1175.10 --> 1180.26] to leave it there. But buckle up for the future, but I hope that this lays a little bit of groundwork -[1180.26 --> 1187.96] there. So back to the framework of this text. First we receive the word, or accept it. Then we're called -[1187.96 --> 1195.44] to respond to the word, or act on it. And finally, James calls us all to resolve ourselves to a new -[1195.44 --> 1204.20] way of life, or to abide by God's word. This calling to abide, it's a bigger thing. Abiding is not simply -[1204.20 --> 1210.74] responding every now and then. We're not supposed to respond a certain number of times to appease God. -[1210.74 --> 1217.70] Again, that's checklist theology. We're called to abide by God's word. That means live in God's truth. -[1218.04 --> 1227.04] We accept, we respond as a way of life, not with a list of do's. The final two verses of our text get -[1227.04 --> 1231.84] to this point. We read it as follows. Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep -[1231.84 --> 1237.98] a tight rein on their tongue deceives themselves, and their religion is worthless. Religion that our God -[1237.98 --> 1244.20] the Father accepts as pure and faultless is this, to look after orphans and widows in their distress, -[1244.48 --> 1247.22] and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. -[1249.64 --> 1253.86] Pastor Chris did an excellent job in his pastor study video this week, highlighting the importance -[1253.86 --> 1260.34] of tradition in the church. Tradition that's centered on Christ, on grace and mercy, and the right -[1260.34 --> 1267.20] following of Christ in his word is wonderful. In that video, Pastor Chris also does a great job of -[1267.20 --> 1273.70] speaking how sometimes traditions can turn into traditionalism. Traditions for the sake of -[1273.70 --> 1279.48] traditions, missing out on the grace and the mercy and the love. Traditionalism is not good, -[1279.72 --> 1285.24] and that's what James is speaking against here. See, we see throughout the Bible that ceremonies and -[1285.24 --> 1292.34] sacrifices are good things, so long as grace and love and mercy are present. But without grace, love, -[1292.34 --> 1296.80] and mercy, religion becomes vain. There are lots of passages in the Bible that speak against this. -[1297.14 --> 1305.68] Hosea 6, 6, Matthew 9, 13, Mark 12, 32 to 32, Luke 6, 36. Rewind, pause, write them down, look them up. We -[1305.68 --> 1311.76] don't have time today. They all talk about that. Religion is worthless if we do not do what God -[1311.76 --> 1320.76] requires of us. But what does the Lord require of you. All the gems everywhere stand and say in unison -[1320.76 --> 1329.64] to act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. That is the life in which we are -[1329.64 --> 1338.24] called to live. Lives that we live where we act justly, where we love mercy, and where we walk humbly -[1338.24 --> 1345.54] with our God. Keeping ourselves from being polluted by this world is a little harder than we think, -[1345.64 --> 1353.92] though. You see, we're all influenced by a story, the Western story. Some of us are influenced in -[1353.92 --> 1358.98] different ways than others, but we're all caught in that story. We're all caught in that current. -[1358.98 --> 1366.34] I read this article by Jeremy Olim is his name, and he wrote about a time when he went to an -[1366.34 --> 1371.06] outdoors water park with his wife and his two sons, and after doing a bunch of the water slides, they -[1371.06 --> 1375.60] decided to relax a little bit, take a break from all the stairs, and they decided to grab a tube, -[1376.04 --> 1381.32] the inner tube each, and just go float in the lazy river. So they did that. It was very relaxing. -[1381.44 --> 1387.20] There was no effort, just lazily floating in this artificial current. Well, after a few minutes, -[1387.20 --> 1391.22] though his kids got bored and they wanted out, but when they tried to get out of this lazy river, -[1391.74 --> 1396.88] they realized how hard it was to find footing in the current. There was an exit, but they didn't get -[1396.88 --> 1401.16] off their tubes in time, and when they did get off their tubes, they couldn't find their footing. His -[1401.16 --> 1407.32] youngest son got pulled under the water. His oldest son got ripped down the current. His wife jumped off -[1407.32 --> 1412.88] her tube, but she couldn't stop it either, and it took Jeremy a lot of effort and a lot of time to gather -[1412.88 --> 1420.48] his kids and his wife and his footing and get out of the exit of that lazy river current. What seemed to -[1420.48 --> 1429.54] be this relaxing, slow-moving novelty was actually a very fast-moving current that they got stuck in. -[1430.76 --> 1437.26] Finding their footing and moving against it proved extremely difficult. Perhaps you know a story very -[1437.26 --> 1444.12] similar to that. Jeremy compared that story to living as Christ followers in the Western culture. -[1445.80 --> 1452.26] We are all part of the Western current, and it may not seem so bad. It may seem kind of -[1453.20 --> 1459.28] laissez-faire, but to go against it is a lot of work. There are many things in our culture that pull us -[1459.28 --> 1465.02] along, and if we're not careful or if we're not prepared to encounter those things, we can get swept -[1465.02 --> 1473.24] right up in the current. Jeremy says, loving our enemies seems like a fantasy in the current that -[1473.24 --> 1481.28] says defeat. Hospitality to the poor seems impossible in the current that says consume. Humility is rare -[1481.28 --> 1488.88] in a current that encourages bluster. Love that risks the safe and the rational is unimaginable in a -[1488.88 --> 1497.72] current that promises security. We must resolve ourselves to a new narrative. We must root ourselves -[1497.72 --> 1503.60] in the story of Scripture. We must keep ourselves from being polluted from this world. We must equip -[1503.60 --> 1510.26] ourselves with the tools of Scripture to push back against the current of our culture. -[1512.76 --> 1518.00] Fasting can help us fight the current of materialism. Generosity can help us fight the current of greed. -[1518.00 --> 1523.72] Community can help us fight the current of individualism. Prayer can help us fight the current of -[1523.72 --> 1530.10] rationalism. Silence can help us fight the current of gossip. Lament can help us fight the current of -[1530.10 --> 1536.98] apathy. When we abide by this calling, when we abide in God's story, not the Western story, -[1537.84 --> 1543.20] we resolve ourselves to this new, more glorious life in Christ. -[1543.20 --> 1549.60] Conclude with this. James is calling us all to resolve ourselves to this new way of life, -[1549.60 --> 1558.04] to this new posture of which we are to operate out of. But we are called to his holiness. We are called -[1558.04 --> 1568.12] to live righteous lives. We are called to accept God's Word and then act on God's Word and then fully -[1568.12 --> 1578.96] abide by God's Word. Then we start to shape our lives by God's story. Not our story, not the West's story. -[1579.64 --> 1587.50] Then we become both hearers, doers. Amen. For real, this time. Let's pray. -[1587.50 --> 1599.92] God, we thank you for your Word. We thank you for the gospel truth of your Son come down to earth -[1599.92 --> 1608.82] to live a perfect life, to die on the cross for our sins, who raised from the dead, defeating sin -[1608.82 --> 1621.42] and death forever. God, may we accept that Word. May we accept that truth. And Lord, may we not just -[1621.42 --> 1627.74] simply accept it, but may we act on it. May we go out and live as you call us to live, respond as you -[1627.74 --> 1633.86] call us to respond. And not only that, God, may we abide in that truth. May that not just be lists of -[1633.86 --> 1641.48] things to do and don't, but may that be the new reality in which you call us to live. Holy Spirit, -[1641.60 --> 1649.80] work in our hearts so we can live out this truth. We pray this in your Son's precious, holy name. Amen. diff --git a/Humility Faith in Jesus as the Great Equalizer (Sermon)_summary.txt b/Humility Faith in Jesus as the Great Equalizer (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ea57c6418f715f801deba6a9ee96d120d7a91172..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Humility Faith in Jesus as the Great Equalizer (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,38 +0,0 @@ -• James 1:9-11 discussed, referencing humility in difficult circumstances -• Pastor's acknowledgment of audio/video issues with previous message -• Reflection on the cost of preaching about money and wealth -• Invitation to consider living out one's faith through making it real -• Discussion of being hearers and doers of God's word, including: - • Putting limits on biblical application - • Prioritizing personal interests over God's design - • Lacking humility in favor of securing power and status - • Reliance on human strength rather than the Holy Spirit -• Imagining what it would be like to live out one's faith every day, including: - • Taking God at his word - • Loving neighbors as oneself - • Living out the story of the gospel -• James discusses how a Christian's attitude towards money and wealth is a key point of conflict in living out their faith. -• The Bible devotes significant attention to teaching about money, possessions, and attitudes towards wealth, with over 2000 verses on the topic. -• Jesus' teachings emphasize the importance of considering what one loves and values, as it reveals what their heart is truly after. -• James argues that how we view wealth and money is directly related to our understanding of what constitutes the "crown of life" (James 1:12). -• The "crown of life" is a metaphor for the ultimate reward or prize of living out one's faith, drawing from ancient Greek and Roman athletic traditions. -• James suggests that how we manage our finances and prioritize spending reveals what we truly love and value. -• The concept of a "crown" representing one's priorities and values in life -• The tension between competing crowns (e.g. success vs. relationships) and the need for them to align with faith -• The importance of endurance through trials and tests of faith, with a crown that can withstand pressure -• The reward of eternal blessedness with God as the ultimate crown of life -• Living out one's faith in everyday life as an evangelist for something (either Jesus or the world) -• The significance of wealth and status in relation to spirituality and faith, with James advocating for a leveling of social distinctions in the church. -• Onesimus was a slave but Paul gave him his humanity back by calling him a brother in Christ -• The gospel of Jesus levels the playing field and gives all people dignity and respect regardless of social status or wealth -• Hermas, a Christian leader from the early church, was born as a slave and became a prominent figure despite his humble beginnings -• Jesus' death and resurrection brought life to those who were dead in their sins and gave them new life in Christ -• In the church, all people are equal and worthy of dignity and respect regardless of background or status -• Material wealth and status are illusory and will fall away, but identity in Jesus Christ is what truly matters -• Applying these principles to everyday life means treating all people with value and worth, regardless of their social status or wealth -• The story of one's life reflects what is most valued -• True faith shows itself in actions, not just words -• Prioritizing wealth and status over God's vision can be a distraction -• One's budget reveals their true priorities -• Money and possessions should not take precedence over ministry and mission -• Living for Jesus' glory brings joy and redemption \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Humility Faith in Jesus as the Great Equalizer (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/Humility Faith in Jesus as the Great Equalizer (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 30de43e445a13d7a92522472f52758443675cc44..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Humility Faith in Jesus as the Great Equalizer (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,348 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 7.80] in just a moment we are going to read together from James continuing in our teaching series -[7.80 --> 12.68] through that letter we're going to read verse 9 through 11 and so if you have a Bible I encourage -[12.68 --> 18.30] you to grab that or open it or turn it on whatever the case may be and have that with you as we go -[18.30 --> 23.92] through this text before we do that let me just say because people have been texting me already -[23.92 --> 30.18] I know that the video didn't work and we know that here as well there was an audio issue and so -[30.18 --> 36.56] instead of listening to three minutes of silence we will fix that and get the video out for everyone -[36.56 --> 43.00] next week and we'll make it happen there so thank you for your patience in that and I trust that you -[43.00 --> 49.70] also have James 1 open in front of you I'm going to read that just those three verses 9 through 11 -[53.92 --> 61.24] the brother in humble circumstances ought to take pride in his position but the one who is rich -[61.24 --> 68.54] should take pride in his low position because he will pass away like a wild flower for the sun rises -[68.54 --> 74.58] with scorching heat and withers the plant its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed -[74.58 --> 83.34] in the same way the rich man will fade even while he goes about his business this is the word of the -[83.34 --> 94.76] lord and so I want to begin this morning just by saying it's been a good ride I've been here just over -[94.76 --> 101.04] two months now and you guys have been incredible and encouraging and really supportive in the work -[101.04 --> 110.20] and for some of you today that ends and that ends because some of you are going to be upset about -[110.20 --> 117.96] what I'm about to say some of you will be challenged others will be exposed some of you will just -[117.96 --> 123.48] disregard it because what I'm saying is hitting too close to home and to your heart and you don't want -[123.48 --> 129.94] it to apply to you and I know that that is true because it is true every single time a pastor talks about -[129.94 --> 130.82] money -[130.82 --> 135.62] it's going to cost me something -[135.62 --> 142.42] to have this theological conversation with you about money -[142.42 --> 152.42] and I know that and to be honest and to understand where I'm coming from I'm really at root more -[152.42 --> 155.16] concerned with what it will cost me if I don't -[155.16 --> 162.26] right if I only preach what itching ears want to hear right it's going to cost me more in the long -[162.26 --> 167.84] run it'll cost me more with you and it will cost me more eternally as a teacher of the word of God -[167.84 --> 175.06] right I faithfully want to represent God's word and present it to you -[175.06 --> 184.60] and so if you get angry or perhaps when you get angry I get it and if you are convicted -[184.60 --> 190.96] to be honest I thank God for that and if you want to follow up with me call me on Tuesday -[190.96 --> 197.46] but know this in the midst of all of this I am preaching to myself first -[197.46 --> 204.90] God has been convicting me in this message all week long to the point where it was really hard -[204.90 --> 210.22] to write this message and at 9 20 this morning when Pastor Kevin came into the church and he said -[210.22 --> 214.32] what are you doing I said I'm trying to figure out how I'm going to cut this thing or change this thing -[214.32 --> 220.54] or make it right because I still haven't quite landed it and so I still haven't landed it I'm going -[220.54 --> 222.86] to land it with you live and we'll see what happens -[222.86 --> 230.08] what I'm saying in all of this really is that I'm kind of inviting you into what God has been -[230.08 --> 236.98] convicting me of and I pray that you get something out of it and that this conversation about money and -[236.98 --> 245.12] wealth and systems of wealth can be used by God to make our faith real -[245.12 --> 255.02] now in this series in James we are looking at what it means to be hearers and doers of the word of God -[255.02 --> 262.92] we are looking at how we can make it real right how do people who say they are Christians live -[262.92 --> 269.92] like what they say they believe is actually true right you get what I'm saying when I say that right -[269.92 --> 276.62] what would be different about your life if you actually lived what you say you believe -[276.62 --> 284.22] and so as Christians right for instance we say we believe that the Bible is true that the Bible is -[284.22 --> 290.00] authoritative and infallible but how good are we and maybe I should just speak personally how good am I -[290.00 --> 297.66] at putting limits on the scope of its application on creatively using hermeneutical gymnastics -[297.66 --> 302.98] to make these texts or other texts apply to other people but not to me -[302.98 --> 311.12] right as Christians we say we believe in God's plan for our lives that his design and his purpose -[311.12 --> 320.56] are actually the best way for us to live but how often do laziness or apathy or selfishness actually -[320.56 --> 327.64] get in the way of conforming our lives to God's creational structure and the redeemed direction he has -[327.64 --> 336.90] right we say that God's power is made perfect in weakness right that true greatness comes in the form of being a servant -[336.90 --> 342.06] but how many of us actually live to serve and love humility -[342.06 --> 350.54] instead are we not just so often and regularly caught up in the western story of securing our own power -[350.54 --> 361.80] and peace through status as kings and queens of our own domains right we believe that God has given us the Holy Spirit in power and purpose -[361.80 --> 373.80] but then we rely entirely on our own strength and our own prowess to get stuff done right our vision for what could be in our life and in our activities together -[373.80 --> 380.80] together become small and narrow and ultimately self-centered -[380.80 --> 384.80] because it is entirely self-directed -[384.80 --> 387.80] instead -[387.80 --> 389.80] imagine -[389.80 --> 392.08] what it might look like -[392.08 --> 396.50] if you were the kind of Christian who took God at his word -[396.50 --> 398.50] and then lived it every day -[398.50 --> 408.50] imagine what our church would look like if we actually lived the profession that perfect love drives out fear -[408.50 --> 411.50] imagine what your neighborhood or what -[411.50 --> 417.76] Muraville or what Langley or the Fraser Valley would look like if you really loved your neighbor as yourself -[417.76 --> 421.76] that's what being a hearer and doer does -[421.76 --> 424.76] that's how you make it real -[424.76 --> 426.76] and for James -[426.76 --> 428.76] in this letter -[428.76 --> 442.76] one of the first points of conflict between living out the story of the world or living out the story of the gospel of making our faith real is the language that we're using here of being here and do -[442.76 --> 449.76] one of those first points of conflict is all about a Christian's attitude towards money and wealth -[449.76 --> 461.76] it shouldn't surprise us right that James takes this up as the first point of conflict in the struggle to make it real -[461.76 --> 465.76] James is a brother of Jesus -[465.76 --> 471.76] James probably didn't become a disciple of Jesus until after the resurrection -[471.76 --> 472.76] but -[472.76 --> 479.76] he quickly emerges as a leader of the Christians in Jerusalem alongside of Peter and the apostles -[479.76 --> 488.76] right in Acts 15 when Paul comes to Jerusalem to talk to Peter and the apostles James is there as one of the leaders who speaks for the assembly and directs it -[488.76 --> 501.76] right it seems clear both from the stories in Acts but also here in the letter that he writes that James was a devout Jew beforehand and he knows the scriptures well as a devout Jew -[501.76 --> 511.76] and it seems clear that in addition to that he is very clear on the teachings of Jesus especially when it comes to money -[511.76 --> 528.76] so just to make this point abundantly clear in the gospels Jesus speaks 38 parables 16 of them are about money and possessions -[528.76 --> 535.76] in the gospels one out of every 10 verses deals directly with money -[535.76 --> 550.76] the Bible has 500 verses on prayer less than 500 verses on faith but more than 2000 verses about money and possessions -[550.76 --> 559.76] why is there so much talk about money and possession about wealth and our attitudes towards wealth and riches and poverty -[559.76 --> 567.76] it's because Jesus understands the tremendous influence that money and wealth have in our lives -[567.76 --> 576.76] right Jesus said for where your treasure is there your heart will be also and maybe it sounds trite but you love what you love -[576.76 --> 586.76] right and and you are what you love and you become like what you love and the problem that we face or the struggle that we face is that the world around us -[586.76 --> 593.76] and our sinful tendencies within us constantly prop up competing loves for our hearts to follow after -[593.76 --> 610.76] there's a study done a few years ago by the Barna group that found that 50 percent of Christians consider money to be the primary indicator of success -[610.76 --> 617.76] and I would guess that the other 50 percent were found to be liars -[617.76 --> 627.76] that same study found that 20 percent of Christians believe you can tell how successful a person is by examining the stuff they have -[627.76 --> 637.76] and so really practically here to make this point how many times do we in the church think that a person will make a good elder -[637.76 --> 642.76] a good elder because they're a good business person because they run their own business -[642.76 --> 650.76] right they might be a good elder and they might run their own business but running your own business doesn't make you a good elder as a consequence -[652.76 --> 665.76] James does not miss the emphasis of Jesus on money and possessions and so here's James point and here's where we will zoom in -[665.76 --> 678.76] what you think about wealth and money is directly determined by what you think the crown of life is -[678.76 --> 682.76] I'm using some language here we'll get into that in a moment -[682.76 --> 688.76] but what you think about wealth and money is directly determined by what you think the crown of life is -[688.76 --> 694.76] and that phrase crown of life with your Bibles in front of you you can find it in verse 12. -[694.76 --> 695.76] We didn't read it. -[695.76 --> 697.76] Verse 12 says, -[697.76 --> 708.76] Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial because when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. -[708.76 --> 717.76] And blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because when they have stood the test they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those of love him. -[717.76 --> 721.76] And so let's put that too in a little bit of context. -[721.76 --> 727.76] So hold on to verse 12 in your mind or put your finger on it if you have it in front of you and then look back to verse 2. -[727.76 --> 728.76] Right? Verse 2 says, -[728.76 --> 729.76] Right? -[729.76 --> 747.76] So in short the text that we read verses 9 through 11 is bracketed by a discussion about trials and testing. -[747.76 --> 748.76] Right? -[748.76 --> 754.76] James is saying that the first test of whether or not your faith is real is what you think about money and wealth. -[754.76 --> 766.76] Being a hearer and doer in the face of this trial is to determine the authenticity of your faith and to do that in a way that is revealed by what you do with your pocketbook. -[766.76 --> 771.76] If you want to know what a man loves, look at his wallet. -[771.76 --> 776.76] If you want to know what really matters to her, look at her bank book. -[776.76 --> 785.76] Now I know that most of us under 40 don't even know what a bank book is and so maybe look at the apps on your phone or look at the app store history of purchase. -[785.76 --> 786.76] Look at your Amazon order history. -[786.76 --> 787.76] Right? -[787.76 --> 791.76] Whatever you find in those places is what you will find a person loves. -[791.76 --> 798.76] And that's because whatever you love is your, using James language, crown of life. -[798.76 --> 807.76] Now James is picking up on an image that comes across in the New Testament because of the culture it's written in. -[807.76 --> 808.76] Right? -[808.76 --> 816.76] The Apostle Paul will use this image when he talks about persevering in faith, about running the race that was marked out for us, about competing in the games. -[816.76 --> 817.76] Right? -[817.76 --> 821.76] Competing in the trials about keeping obedient to the discipline of following God. -[821.76 --> 822.76] Right? -[822.76 --> 828.76] This crown of life is a phrase that's used in Revelation 2 where Jesus says to the church of Smyrna, -[828.76 --> 835.76] Be faithful unto death and I will give you the crown of life. -[835.76 --> 836.76] Right? -[836.76 --> 841.76] And that image is not a crown of jewels or gold like you might suspect. -[841.76 --> 843.76] It is actually a laurel wreath. -[843.76 --> 844.76] Right? -[844.76 --> 852.76] A wreath of leaves that would be wrapped together and wound together and given to athletes in the Greek games. -[852.76 --> 864.76] Or similarly, the Romans had a tradition of an oaken laurel that would be given to soldiers and generals of Rome who have marked themselves out in battle with great accomplishment. -[864.76 --> 871.76] It is the prize of your work. -[871.76 --> 874.76] And so, what is the prize of your work? -[874.76 --> 878.76] What is the reason you do everything and anything? -[878.76 --> 885.76] What do you hope will happen or will come to you or what do you hope to gain as a result of your efforts? -[885.76 --> 886.76] Right? -[886.76 --> 887.76] Everyone has a crown. -[887.76 --> 888.76] Right? -[888.76 --> 891.76] Or an idea of what your crown is. -[891.76 --> 895.76] Everything you do and why you do it is for that crown. -[895.76 --> 896.76] And not just one crown. -[896.76 --> 897.76] Right? -[897.76 --> 898.76] Let's be honest. -[898.76 --> 902.76] We have a bunch of different crowns that compete for our attention and for our affections in life. -[902.76 --> 905.76] And a bunch of reasons to do this thing or that thing. -[905.76 --> 908.76] And sometimes those things are congruent and work together. -[908.76 --> 910.76] And sometimes those things are at odds with each other. -[910.76 --> 922.76] When I was in university, I really believed that doing well was important. -[922.76 --> 923.76] Right? -[923.76 --> 928.76] That doing well would help me get into a good grad school with good scholarships to support that work. -[928.76 --> 935.76] And I believed that doing well would affect the job that I was able to have in the future. -[935.76 --> 937.76] And so, I studied hard. -[937.76 --> 938.76] I worked hard. -[938.76 --> 941.76] I worked diligently on research papers. -[941.76 --> 946.76] And I enrolled in the most difficult classes that my program could offer. -[946.76 --> 951.76] And at exactly the same time, I really believed that people mattered. -[951.76 --> 953.76] That my social life was important. -[953.76 --> 957.76] And that I would miss something amazing if I didn't hang out with everyone. -[957.76 --> 958.76] Right? -[958.76 --> 960.76] I didn't want people to tell me cool stories. -[960.76 --> 962.76] I wanted to be part of people's cool stories. -[962.76 --> 965.76] And so, I would stay up too late. -[965.76 --> 967.76] I would go out when I should have been studying. -[967.76 --> 970.76] And I worried too much about what people thought. -[970.76 --> 974.76] And I'd live in this constant state of worry about missing out. -[974.76 --> 975.76] Right? -[975.76 --> 978.76] Each one of those things crowns at odds with each other. -[978.76 --> 984.76] And yet, they each directed aspects or the whole of my life in those moments. -[984.76 --> 995.76] And so, what James is saying is that if you want to endure trials and tests of faith, your crown better be able to hold up under the weight you put on it. -[995.76 --> 996.76] Right? -[996.76 --> 1009.76] And if our crown is made up of the weight of God's glory, if our faith is really real, then the reward, the crown of life really is worth changing your life for. -[1009.76 --> 1012.76] And just so we're super clear here. -[1012.76 --> 1016.76] The crown of life is eternal blessedness with God. -[1016.76 --> 1019.76] The crown of life is resurrection unto salvation. -[1019.76 --> 1026.76] The crown of life is dwelling in the majestic beauty of Almighty God on an earth restored to His design and for His glory. -[1026.76 --> 1035.76] The crown of life is spiritual riches granted for us in the heavenly realms which you have already received by grace through faith. -[1035.76 --> 1043.76] The life you live with real faith as a hearer and doer of the word is the start. -[1043.76 --> 1046.76] But the life you live is a foretaste. -[1046.76 --> 1050.76] It is a preview of the life to come when Jesus returns. -[1050.76 --> 1054.76] And the church in the world is a taste of the kingdom. -[1054.76 --> 1058.76] At least when the church lives according to her calling. -[1058.76 --> 1074.76] Your life at school, your life at work, your life at soccer or at the gym or in your neighborhood, when you orient yourself towards the crown of life, is a taste of the kingdom of Jesus. -[1074.76 --> 1077.76] People see it and wonder. -[1077.76 --> 1086.76] And there ought to be a certain magnetism that compels people to move towards Jesus because of how you live. -[1086.76 --> 1087.76] Right? -[1087.76 --> 1094.76] In your life, to continue this metaphor, you are an evangelist for something, for some vision of the good life. -[1094.76 --> 1095.76] Right? -[1095.76 --> 1096.76] Everyone is. -[1096.76 --> 1097.76] Everyone is an evangelist for something. -[1097.76 --> 1101.76] You are what you love and you want others to love like you. -[1101.76 --> 1102.76] You. -[1102.76 --> 1108.76] You will tell the gospel of Jesus by how you live or you will tell the gospel of the western world. -[1108.76 --> 1114.76] The story, the telling of some gospel, the telling of some story by your life is inescapable. -[1114.76 --> 1120.76] What really matters for us to think about is whose gospel are you telling? -[1120.76 --> 1137.76] And if you want to tell the gospel of Jesus, if you want to be, if you want that to be the story that your life tells, it starts for James and for us today with your view, wealth, and money. -[1137.76 --> 1150.76] Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position, but the rich should take pride in their humiliation since they will pass away like a wildflower. -[1150.76 --> 1163.76] In the world of James, and perhaps still in our world today, it was said that the poor were ignored or punished by God and so they deserved no special courtesy. -[1163.76 --> 1168.76] In a world that said the wealthy were blessed by God and should then be shown favor. -[1168.76 --> 1169.76] Right? -[1169.76 --> 1176.76] In a world that said the wealthy were viewed as spiritually blessed and worthy of special treatment while the poor are considered spiritually poor and treated poorly. -[1176.76 --> 1182.76] James is saying, not so for those of you whose faith is made real. -[1182.76 --> 1183.76] Right? -[1183.76 --> 1187.76] There is a leveling that takes place in the church. -[1187.76 --> 1188.76] Right? -[1188.76 --> 1194.76] Those in poverty and in humility are raised up and those of wealth and status are brought low. -[1194.76 --> 1201.76] Money isn't the determiner of status, but spirituality and Holy Spirit giftedness. -[1201.76 --> 1203.76] The New Testament works this out. -[1203.76 --> 1208.76] That Paul's letter that he writes to Philemon about Onesimus. -[1208.76 --> 1214.76] Onesimus is a former slave of Philemon and he's run away and he's joined up with Paul. -[1214.76 --> 1215.76] Right? -[1215.76 --> 1229.76] And Paul writes this letter on behalf of Onesimus to Philemon and he says that Philemon, that Onesimus will come back to Philemon no longer as a slave, but better than a slave as a dear brother. -[1229.76 --> 1235.76] Paul says, he is very dear to me, but even dear to you both as a man and as a brother. -[1235.76 --> 1239.76] So think what Paul has done there. -[1239.76 --> 1242.76] He's taken a slave and given him his humanity back. -[1242.76 --> 1247.76] He's very dear to me, but even dear to you both as a man. -[1247.76 --> 1253.76] And he's taken a slave, given him his humanity back and given him a family as a brother. -[1253.76 --> 1256.76] Brother in Christ Jesus. -[1256.76 --> 1259.76] A slave is raised up to a brother. -[1259.76 --> 1264.76] There's another story that comes out of the second century early church. -[1264.76 --> 1267.76] Christian leader by the name of Hermas. -[1267.76 --> 1272.76] He is known in history for writing a document called The Shepherd of Hermas. -[1272.76 --> 1281.76] This is a collection of writings and a vision that he had received in that at the time of his writing and for a hundred years or so afterwards, -[1281.76 --> 1288.76] the earliest church fathers actually considered the Shepherd of Hermas, Hermas' writing to be canonical, part of the Bible. -[1288.76 --> 1290.76] They later discerned that that wasn't the case. -[1290.76 --> 1295.76] But point is here that Hermas was born as a slave. -[1295.76 --> 1310.76] Actually Hermas was, the story goes, was one who was left as an infant be abandoned in the Roman practice of leaving unwanted children outside in a garbage heap. -[1310.76 --> 1315.76] And someone came and collected him and raised him as a slave. -[1315.76 --> 1327.76] And eventually this person Hermas becomes a Christian and he writes what many consider to be authoritative words and he becomes a leader in the early church. -[1327.76 --> 1335.76] A slave becomes a leader, poor become rich and the rich become as with the poor. -[1335.76 --> 1340.76] And only the gospel of Jesus does that. -[1340.76 --> 1348.76] Right? That's because only the gospel of Jesus levels the playing field before and after regeneration. -[1348.76 --> 1353.76] Right? The gospel says that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. -[1353.76 --> 1358.76] The gospel says that there is no one who is righteous, not even one. -[1358.76 --> 1368.76] The gospel says that no matter who you are or how successful in life you are, no matter what kind of status or power you have, whether you are prince or pauper, -[1368.76 --> 1373.76] there is nothing that you can do to earn God's favor and salvation. -[1373.76 --> 1379.76] That the wages of sin is death for everyone who sins and everyone sins. -[1379.76 --> 1384.76] Right? We are all equal in our depravity and in our inability. -[1384.76 --> 1389.76] We all need a savior. We all need Jesus. -[1389.76 --> 1393.76] And to us all, he comes. -[1393.76 --> 1401.76] And to those who are unable and unworthy, to those who are unwilling and righteous, to the dead, he comes to bring life. -[1401.76 --> 1402.76] And into this world he comes. -[1402.76 --> 1407.76] And though this world did not recognize the voice of the one who created it, -[1407.76 --> 1413.76] Jesus comes and he lives the life I should have lived, satisfying God's righteous requirements for obedience. -[1413.76 --> 1424.76] And Jesus dies the death that I deserve, satisfying God's righteous demands for justice as a consequence of sin. -[1424.76 --> 1432.76] And the same Jesus rises three days later, winning victory over sin and death. -[1432.76 --> 1436.76] And now death has lost its sting and sin has been defeated. -[1436.76 --> 1443.76] And by the spirit you are raised into new life, into this life, the life of Jesus. -[1443.76 --> 1446.76] A life that is not ruled by sin, but ruled by Jesus. -[1446.76 --> 1453.76] A life captivated by the beauty of his voice who spoke at creation, who like he did to Lazarus, -[1453.76 --> 1458.76] Jesus calls you out of the grave by grace and invites you to live out of that same grace. -[1458.76 --> 1464.76] Now, a life lived in a new kind of community that we call the church, -[1464.76 --> 1470.76] where all are equal in her eyes and worthy of dignity and respect. -[1470.76 --> 1474.76] You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. -[1474.76 --> 1479.76] For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. -[1479.76 --> 1490.76] There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ. -[1490.76 --> 1500.76] The crown of life that Jesus gives is worth more than all the gold or silver, wealth or status that the world can give you. -[1500.76 --> 1506.76] A life that lives out that is faith made real. -[1506.76 --> 1509.76] That's what it means to be hearers and doers. -[1509.76 --> 1515.76] In fact, very quickly, James writing here says, -[1515.76 --> 1536.76] James is doing this really beautiful contrast here that's saying that material wealth, material status, material possession, -[1536.76 --> 1540.76] they are the things that are illusory, they are the things that will fall away. -[1540.76 --> 1545.76] What is really real is your identity in Jesus Christ. -[1545.76 --> 1550.76] What is really real is who Jesus is. -[1552.76 --> 1560.76] So, let me finish here with a thought or two about how to do this. -[1560.76 --> 1563.76] These are just examples, right? -[1563.76 --> 1569.76] In part, it is your job to listen and then figure out how to apply this to your specific and unique circumstances. -[1569.76 --> 1576.76] And so, I'll give you a couple examples, but then your work to do the hard work of applying it. -[1576.76 --> 1579.76] We've heard, now let's do. -[1579.76 --> 1581.76] What does doing look like? -[1581.76 --> 1584.76] So, maybe you run a business. -[1584.76 --> 1591.76] Maybe you've got big clients who spend a ton of money at your business and you've got small clients who only spend a small fraction of that. -[1591.76 --> 1596.76] May it be that they both walk away from a meeting with you feeling like they matter. -[1596.76 --> 1603.76] Maybe the small client gets the exact same attention and quality of service as the biggest one does. -[1603.76 --> 1612.76] And maybe the big client gets to see that you really care about your customers and really want to serve everyone, no matter who they are or where they come from. -[1612.76 --> 1617.76] Maybe that's the story you get to tell when you make your faith real. -[1617.76 --> 1626.76] Maybe you have a chance to have lunch with the real movers and shakers of our community, right? -[1626.76 --> 1630.76] The people to whom the leaders look for leadership. -[1630.76 --> 1639.76] And just as you are about to leave to go to have that meeting, someone shows up at your door, someone who you don't know but has come to you for help. -[1639.76 --> 1646.76] Maybe that that person gets your attention and love in that moment because, one, they are right in front of you. -[1646.76 --> 1658.76] But two, even if they do nothing to advance their standing, to advance your standing, they are worth seeing Jesus in you and from you. -[1658.76 --> 1662.76] Maybe there's a disagreement on your team, right? -[1662.76 --> 1667.76] And the person on your team or on your board or in your community, right? -[1667.76 --> 1674.76] The person with power and money who has bankrolled everything you have done for years threatens to pull out and to take all their money with them. -[1674.76 --> 1678.76] You've got to decide what really matters. -[1678.76 --> 1693.76] You've got to decide, is placating this person, is keeping the peace with this person more important than what you guys have together prayerfully discerned is the vision of God for your work? -[1693.76 --> 1694.76] Try this. -[1694.76 --> 1699.76] Look at your yearly household budget. -[1699.76 --> 1701.76] Where do you spend your money? -[1701.76 --> 1703.76] But your budget tells a story. -[1703.76 --> 1705.76] Our church budget tells a story. -[1705.76 --> 1708.76] Your budget is your statement of priorities. -[1708.76 --> 1721.76] And so, in your budget, whether at church or at home, do you support ministry and mission as much or more or less than vacation? -[1721.76 --> 1722.76] Right? -[1722.76 --> 1729.76] If someone could see how you spend your money, what would they say you really love? -[1729.76 --> 1730.76] And let me be abundantly clear. -[1730.76 --> 1737.76] This applies to those of us with lots of money and this applies to those of us with no money. -[1737.76 --> 1742.76] Maybe you're a teenager and you think, well, I don't have any money. -[1742.76 --> 1743.76] Right? -[1743.76 --> 1744.76] What am I going to do? -[1744.76 --> 1745.76] How do I show this? -[1745.76 --> 1755.76] And yet still, you've bought that whatever DLC content for Fortnite that came out recently because that's what mattered. -[1755.76 --> 1756.76] Right? -[1756.76 --> 1763.76] You're saving to buy the PS5 because that's what matters when they finally become available on the market again. -[1763.76 --> 1774.76] No matter what station or status you have in life, what you do with wealth and money will be determined by what you think the crown of life is. -[1774.76 --> 1776.76] Your life tells a story. -[1776.76 --> 1777.76] Your life tells a story. -[1777.76 --> 1778.76] Your life tells a story. -[1778.76 --> 1781.76] That's what it means to be hearers and doers. -[1781.76 --> 1789.76] For your life to tell the story of Jesus redeeming and restoring. -[1789.76 --> 1796.76] What you do with your money to tell his story. -[1796.76 --> 1808.76] And when it does, if it does, even if nothing about our story changes. -[1808.76 --> 1811.76] And by that I mean even if we don't get more material blessing. -[1811.76 --> 1813.76] Even if we don't get that PS5. -[1813.76 --> 1816.76] Even if we can't download that new content. -[1816.76 --> 1817.76] Whatever the case may be. -[1817.76 --> 1819.76] Even if we don't get that vacation. -[1819.76 --> 1827.76] How we live in that moment tells a true better story. -[1827.76 --> 1831.76] All those other things are illusory. -[1831.76 --> 1832.76] The one that matters. -[1832.76 --> 1834.76] The one that matters. -[1834.76 --> 1835.76] Jesus. -[1835.76 --> 1840.76] May he be your crown of life. -[1840.76 --> 1844.76] May the life you live reflect his glory. -[1844.76 --> 1852.76] Then, like James began, you might know pure joy. -[1852.76 --> 1855.76] Let me pray for you. -[1855.76 --> 1864.76] Lord God. -[1864.76 --> 1871.76] Would you take this truth and convict us? -[1871.76 --> 1884.76] Open our eyes to those places and those people and those circumstances where we have made wealth and power and riches more important than we have made you. -[1884.76 --> 1888.76] Your gospel and your story. -[1888.76 --> 1902.76] Open our eyes to those places where competing crowns have overwhelmed your position in our hearts on the throne of our lives. -[1902.76 --> 1907.76] And as our eyes are opened to your truth this morning. -[1907.76 --> 1909.76] Instead of shame. -[1909.76 --> 1912.76] May we have conviction. -[1912.76 --> 1916.76] Instead of guilt. -[1916.76 --> 1919.76] Where we run from you. -[1919.76 --> 1923.76] May we experience grace where we are drawn to you. -[1923.76 --> 1930.76] And so open our eyes to our need for confession. -[1930.76 --> 1935.76] That we might experience your mercy today. -[1935.76 --> 1942.76] So forgive us for those times where we have made wealth and status more important. -[1942.76 --> 1948.76] Forgive us for those times where we have pursued after other things not of you. -[1948.76 --> 1953.76] For those times where they have distracted us from you. -[1953.76 --> 1955.76] Raise us up. -[1955.76 --> 1957.76] Newness of life. -[1957.76 --> 1960.76] That we might live for the glory of your name. -[1960.76 --> 1963.76] In Jesus Christ we pray. -[1963.76 --> 1966.76] Relying on his Holy Spirit. -[1966.76 --> 1968.76] Live in this way. -[1968.76 --> 1969.76] We say together. -[1969.76 --> 1970.76] Amen. -[1970.76 --> 1989.76] S intake A diff --git "a/I Believe\342\200\246 \357\275\234 John 4_43-54_summary.txt" "b/I Believe\342\200\246 \357\275\234 John 4_43-54_summary.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index d0529395bdbba208166f4deb4f33245ddafcb7ad..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/I Believe\342\200\246 \357\275\234 John 4_43-54_summary.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,73 +0,0 @@ -• Reading from John 4:43-54 -• Miraculous sign in Galilee, where a royal official's son is healed -• Discussion of the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on daily life -• Reflections on how people adapted to isolation and cancellations -• Comparison between the west coast and Ontario in terms of pandemic response -• General anxiety in the system, citing COVID-19 as a recent example -• The personal experience of fear and anxiety, particularly feeling out of control -• The importance of individual application and self-reflection, not just listening to others' experiences -• Shared underlying beliefs and themes that contribute to general anxiety -• The idea that personal struggles are unique but also shared among others -• The concept of control and agency in one's life -• The feeling of being out of control and its relation to anxiety and fear -• The idea that God or a higher power may have abandoned or lost control, leading to feelings of abandonment or neglect -• The struggle between believing one should have control and the reality of not having it -• The importance of acknowledging and accepting this paradox in everyday life -• Belief issue vs. heart issue -• Fear and anxiety as a result of an underlying belief -• God's presence or lack thereof in relation to fear and anxiety -• The fruit of other beliefs, concepts, or ideas about God and control -• Agency and power of God in the world -• Difficulty in confronting or dealing with emotions and fears -• The importance of questioning and challenging beliefs and assumptions -• Taking every thought captive to Christ, as discussed in 2 Corinthians 10 -• Testing and evaluating feelings against what is true in the gospel -• Recognizing and confessing false narratives and living out a more accurate and better story based on faith. -• Importance of worship and community gathering -• Preaching the gospel to fears, worries, and anxieties -• Asking what the Bible says about fear and anxiety -• The role of Jesus and the gospel in addressing these issues -• A story from John 2 about Jesus turning water into wine at Cana -• The official's son is on his deathbed and the official begs Jesus to heal him -• Jesus knows the hearts and minds of people, including the official's anxiety and worry -• Jesus responds by saying "yes" to the official and offering to heal his son -• The conversation highlights the emotional state of the official and the mix of emotions present in such a situation -• Jesus' ability to heal a boy with one word -• The significance of Jesus' words and their impact on life -• Comparison between Jesus' response and human reaction in similar situations -• Human desire for dramatic displays of power from Jesus -• The simplicity and effectiveness of Jesus' single word in bringing about healing -• The speaker's words are ordinary, simple, and straightforward -• His word is filled with the power of life and spirit -• It is all you need to answer any question about what the service was about -• You don't need spectacle or fanfare, just his word -• Many people believe that his word is needed now -• The speaker's message is a means of receiving grace -• The importance of distinguishing between truth and lies -• Separating bone from marrow (understanding the essence vs. superficiality) -• The transformative power of life's experiences -• Overcoming anxiety, fear, and worry through understanding the gospel -• Recognizing the root of one's beliefs or unbeliefs -• Belief in God as love and presence -• Father's will in heaven, never leaving or forsaking speaker -• Enduring presence of God throughout time -• Knowledge of God's word and love, experienced through spiritual experiences -• Love of God shown by sending son to die on cross -• The speaker claims to have knowledge about their life and worthiness due to Jesus living, dying, and giving them his spirit. -• Jesus has given the speaker a second chance at life, allowing them to live in his love and forgiveness. -• The speaker attributes their transformation from a selfish individual to a more compassionate person to Jesus' influence. -• The speaker believes that others can also be transformed by letting Jesus into their lives through his word. -• Fear and worry as a source of "fruit" in life -• Producing fruit such as peace, prayerfulness, love, hope, patience, joy, courage, and humility through trust in God's word -• Importance of wisdom and prudence in decision-making -• Walking in humility and not hiding or running away from challenges -• The danger of stockpiling and attempting to control circumstances outside one's power -• The power of living the gospel and following Jesus' example -• Imagining what would happen if everyone lived according to Jesus' teachings -• Living a beautiful life in accordance with Jesus' teachings -• Being nourished by God's spirit and speaking to Him in prayer -• Emphasizing the importance of hearing and responding to God's word -• The importance of the gospel being preached -• Universal application of the gospel message -• Personal involvement in proclaiming the gospel -• Declaration of faith through Jesus' name and the word "Amen" \ No newline at end of file diff --git "a/I Believe\342\200\246 \357\275\234 John 4_43-54_transcript.txt" "b/I Believe\342\200\246 \357\275\234 John 4_43-54_transcript.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 563cbcddff5a54c31e1b317464380f4ddc5ec356..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/I Believe\342\200\246 \357\275\234 John 4_43-54_transcript.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1882 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 12.32] so we're going to spend the next little while in the gospel of john we're going to look at -[12.32 --> 19.16] john 4 i'm going to read from verse 43 to the end of that chapter verse 54 -[19.16 --> 26.08] if you have a bible with you i encourage you to open that up if or turn it on if it's your phone -[26.08 --> 33.18] whatever the case just find yourself in john 4 and we're going to start at verse 43 -[33.18 --> 38.54] before we read together i'd love if we could pray one more time let's pray -[38.54 --> 49.14] lord jesus as we have sung we do come now to hear you speak and so speak oh lord -[49.14 --> 54.06] renew our minds teach us and transform us -[54.06 --> 62.86] open your word to our hearts and souls that it might be for us the word of life -[62.86 --> 68.62] that these would be more than words on a page more than words on a screen that these would be -[68.62 --> 72.12] to us the very voice of jesus -[72.12 --> 80.84] and we might know them and live pray in your name lord jesus amen -[80.84 --> 87.10] in john 4 we'll start at verse 43 -[87.10 --> 94.86] after the two days he that's jesus left for galilee -[94.86 --> 100.42] now jesus himself had pointed out that a prophet has no honor in his own country -[100.42 --> 104.84] when he arrived in galilee the galileans welcomed him -[104.84 --> 111.14] they'd seen all that he had done in jerusalem at the passover feast for they also had been there -[111.14 --> 117.76] once more he visited cana in galilee where he had turned the water into wine -[117.76 --> 123.72] and there was a certain royal official whose son lay sick at capernaum -[123.72 --> 128.36] and when this man heard that jesus had arrived in galilee from judea -[128.36 --> 134.38] he went to him and he begged him to come and heal his son who was close to death -[134.38 --> 142.20] unless you people see miraculous signs and wonders jesus told them -[142.20 --> 144.52] you will never believe -[144.52 --> 151.44] the royal official said sir come down before my child dies -[151.44 --> 159.46] jesus replied you may go your son will live -[159.46 --> 163.30] and the man took jesus at his word and departed -[163.30 --> 168.58] and while he was still on his way his servants met him with the news that the boy was living -[168.58 --> 173.04] and when he inquired as to the time when his son got better they said to him -[173.04 --> 176.60] the fever left him yesterday at the seventh hour -[176.60 --> 183.88] then the father realized that this was the exact time at which jesus had said to him -[183.88 --> 185.78] your son will live -[185.78 --> 190.20] and so he and all his household believed -[190.20 --> 194.62] this was the second miraculous sign that jesus performed -[194.62 --> 197.56] having come from judea to galilee -[197.56 --> 199.26] this is the word of the lord -[199.26 --> 205.40] so i don't have to tell you -[205.40 --> 207.24] that this is weird -[207.24 --> 210.48] right this whole time this whole season -[210.48 --> 213.66] is strange and different and abnormal -[213.66 --> 214.62] and -[214.62 --> 217.34] you probably don't like it -[217.34 --> 219.56] now let's be real right of course -[219.56 --> 221.44] we found ways to make it work -[221.44 --> 223.04] we found simple joys right -[223.04 --> 225.58] we found opportunities to find connection -[225.58 --> 227.56] and express ourselves and to have that -[227.56 --> 231.46] kind of feeling remain in our lives -[231.46 --> 233.00] but it's just been weird -[233.00 --> 238.24] do you remember way back when this started -[238.24 --> 242.94] and you guys are probably better on the west coast than we were back in ontario -[242.94 --> 243.92] i'll give you that one -[243.92 --> 245.56] but do you remember way back when this started -[245.56 --> 247.78] there was a shortage on toilet paper -[247.78 --> 250.34] toilet paper -[250.34 --> 253.68] right people were stockpiling in case of emergency -[253.68 --> 256.30] and for some reason it was toilet paper -[256.30 --> 258.48] that made international headlines -[258.48 --> 263.24] but then -[263.24 --> 264.92] things got really serious -[264.92 --> 267.42] schools closed -[267.42 --> 270.68] life shut down for many of us -[270.68 --> 272.40] and how many -[272.40 --> 274.04] how many parents here became -[274.04 --> 276.54] unvolunteered homeschool teachers -[276.54 --> 279.90] how many of you loved that -[279.90 --> 282.94] hands quickly went down right -[282.94 --> 285.92] how many of you -[285.92 --> 286.98] now believe -[286.98 --> 288.18] as a result of all this -[288.18 --> 288.46] that -[288.46 --> 290.40] your kids teachers deserve a medal -[290.40 --> 291.82] i do -[291.82 --> 294.46] i would say a pay raise -[294.46 --> 295.76] but i know the communities we're in -[295.76 --> 298.08] right -[298.08 --> 299.44] isolation orders -[299.44 --> 300.70] social distancing -[300.70 --> 302.20] everything has been cancelled -[302.20 --> 303.62] there's travel bans -[303.62 --> 304.32] right -[304.32 --> 304.84] for a while -[304.84 --> 305.54] we were unsure -[305.54 --> 307.06] if we were even going to be able to come out here -[307.06 --> 309.26] and how we were going to make that happen -[309.26 --> 311.24] now -[311.24 --> 312.46] again -[312.46 --> 314.22] i know that -[314.22 --> 316.20] you guys have been pretty good in this -[316.20 --> 317.72] and that your church has been kept safe -[317.72 --> 319.00] in all of this -[319.00 --> 319.40] and i know -[319.40 --> 320.60] that for some of us -[320.60 --> 321.80] life has changed very -[321.80 --> 322.60] little -[322.60 --> 323.48] right -[323.48 --> 323.92] and again -[323.92 --> 325.14] things out here in the west -[325.14 --> 326.84] are better than they are back in ontario -[326.84 --> 328.34] we're catching up slowly -[328.34 --> 329.24] sure -[329.24 --> 330.62] and i'm -[330.62 --> 331.68] sure that -[331.68 --> 333.86] y'all are not the type of people -[333.86 --> 334.72] who are running out -[334.72 --> 336.16] clearing grocery store shelves -[336.16 --> 336.96] of toilet paper -[336.96 --> 338.52] right -[338.52 --> 340.62] i doubt that if i came to your house later -[340.62 --> 341.98] and opened a closet -[341.98 --> 343.80] i would have an avalanche of tp -[343.80 --> 344.72] falling all over me -[344.72 --> 346.66] that's probably not the kind of people -[346.66 --> 347.60] you are -[347.60 --> 348.54] and yet -[348.54 --> 351.14] i'm sure you've noticed -[351.14 --> 351.94] that there's -[351.94 --> 353.06] an anxiety -[353.06 --> 354.54] in the system -[354.54 --> 356.08] right -[356.08 --> 356.52] there's a -[356.52 --> 358.22] a general experience -[358.22 --> 359.14] of fear -[359.14 --> 360.16] and worry -[360.16 --> 361.20] and concern -[361.20 --> 363.04] that to the best of our abilities -[363.04 --> 363.64] we just -[363.64 --> 364.84] can't control -[364.84 --> 366.98] we just can't -[366.98 --> 367.72] figure it out -[367.72 --> 369.82] and let's be real -[369.82 --> 370.04] right -[370.04 --> 370.72] covid19 -[370.72 --> 372.74] is just the most recent example -[372.74 --> 373.22] of that -[373.22 --> 374.64] because there's always fear -[374.64 --> 375.92] there's always anxiety -[375.92 --> 377.04] there's always worry -[377.04 --> 378.50] in the systems of life -[378.50 --> 380.94] but that's where i want to start -[380.94 --> 382.58] this morning -[382.58 --> 385.26] with our feelings of fear -[385.26 --> 387.18] and anxiety -[387.18 --> 388.28] particularly -[388.28 --> 389.84] with the feeling of fear -[389.84 --> 390.44] and anxiety -[390.44 --> 391.04] that comes -[391.04 --> 392.26] when we feel -[392.26 --> 393.42] out of control -[393.42 --> 396.28] now -[396.28 --> 398.32] before i do that -[398.32 --> 399.68] here's what i know -[399.68 --> 400.70] first let me say that -[400.70 --> 402.22] i'm talking here about -[402.22 --> 403.24] general anxiety -[403.24 --> 403.96] in the system -[403.96 --> 404.92] right -[404.92 --> 405.86] i'm not talking about -[405.86 --> 406.84] clinical anxiety -[406.84 --> 408.04] or clinical depression -[408.04 --> 409.92] that's a different conversation -[409.92 --> 411.02] i would love to sit down -[411.02 --> 412.36] if that's your reality -[412.36 --> 413.14] and meet you -[413.14 --> 413.92] and talk about that -[413.92 --> 414.94] but here i'm just talking about -[414.94 --> 416.40] general anxiety -[416.40 --> 418.64] and i know that -[418.64 --> 419.82] everyone's experience -[419.82 --> 420.98] of fear and anxiety -[420.98 --> 421.74] is different -[421.74 --> 422.28] and unique -[422.28 --> 423.80] right -[423.80 --> 424.76] so for the next -[424.76 --> 425.82] couple minutes anyway -[425.82 --> 427.06] i'm going to talk about -[427.06 --> 427.94] my own experience -[427.94 --> 428.18] of that -[428.18 --> 428.72] i'm going to talk about -[428.72 --> 429.24] myself -[429.24 --> 430.40] my own struggles -[430.40 --> 431.52] and fear and anxiety -[431.52 --> 432.24] and control -[432.24 --> 433.58] and i want to do that -[433.58 --> 433.98] because -[433.98 --> 436.12] i can't do -[436.12 --> 437.36] the work of application -[437.36 --> 437.90] for you -[437.90 --> 439.48] right -[439.48 --> 440.26] and so when i think -[440.26 --> 441.36] say things like -[441.36 --> 442.28] i struggle with -[442.28 --> 443.40] or i believe -[443.40 --> 443.72] or -[443.72 --> 445.22] this is my -[445.22 --> 446.12] experience -[446.12 --> 447.56] you sitting here -[447.56 --> 447.86] right -[447.86 --> 448.66] doing your own work -[448.66 --> 449.24] of application -[449.24 --> 450.78] should ask the question -[450.78 --> 452.60] how is this true for me -[452.60 --> 453.72] right -[453.72 --> 454.42] how do i believe -[454.42 --> 455.62] the same or similar -[455.62 --> 456.28] things -[456.28 --> 457.24] how do i struggle -[457.24 --> 457.50] with this -[457.50 --> 458.72] what is my heart saying -[458.72 --> 459.68] when i believe -[459.68 --> 460.38] this -[460.38 --> 462.54] and i know that -[462.54 --> 463.20] i'm not alone -[463.20 --> 464.08] in these struggles -[464.08 --> 465.90] right -[465.90 --> 466.42] your struggles -[466.42 --> 467.54] are unique to you -[467.54 --> 467.94] yes -[467.94 --> 468.92] but there are themes -[468.92 --> 469.86] and there are underlying -[469.86 --> 470.44] beliefs -[470.44 --> 472.14] in the systems -[472.14 --> 473.14] and the lives -[473.14 --> 474.16] that we share together -[474.16 --> 475.34] right -[475.34 --> 475.80] the work -[475.80 --> 476.94] of applying this -[476.94 --> 478.00] is your own -[478.00 --> 478.98] but the journey -[478.98 --> 479.76] of doing so -[479.76 --> 480.68] is ours together -[480.68 --> 481.48] okay -[481.48 --> 483.10] can we do that together -[483.10 --> 485.20] so i'm going to open -[485.20 --> 485.66] the door -[485.66 --> 486.30] for the spirit -[486.30 --> 486.78] to work -[486.78 --> 488.14] but you got to walk -[488.14 --> 488.78] through it -[488.78 --> 489.54] cool -[489.54 --> 491.86] i really appreciate -[491.86 --> 493.20] at least facial feedback -[493.20 --> 493.70] cool -[493.70 --> 494.20] all right -[494.20 --> 494.50] good -[494.50 --> 495.06] thank you -[495.06 --> 497.64] so at times like these -[497.64 --> 499.24] it's easy to feel -[499.24 --> 500.78] out of control -[500.78 --> 502.28] right -[502.28 --> 502.80] it feels like -[502.80 --> 503.88] everything around me -[503.88 --> 504.88] is determining -[504.88 --> 505.94] reality -[505.94 --> 507.04] for me -[507.04 --> 507.64] that i have -[507.64 --> 508.62] no agency -[508.62 --> 509.74] in what's going -[509.74 --> 510.10] on -[510.10 --> 512.24] and somewhere -[512.24 --> 513.08] in my heart -[513.08 --> 514.00] i believe -[514.00 --> 515.30] that i should -[515.30 --> 517.50] that i should -[517.50 --> 518.44] have some control -[518.44 --> 519.52] over my reality -[519.52 --> 520.16] that i should -[520.16 --> 520.96] have some power -[520.96 --> 521.96] and agency -[521.96 --> 523.22] to affect change -[523.22 --> 524.92] right -[524.92 --> 525.80] and think about that -[525.80 --> 526.66] as we say that -[526.66 --> 527.40] because this is important -[527.40 --> 528.16] this is the foundation -[528.16 --> 528.60] right -[528.60 --> 530.16] if we didn't believe -[530.16 --> 531.20] that we should -[531.20 --> 531.84] have control -[531.84 --> 533.22] there would be -[533.22 --> 533.92] no anxiety -[533.92 --> 534.86] when we don't -[534.86 --> 535.50] have control -[535.50 --> 537.86] okay -[537.86 --> 539.02] but since we believe -[539.02 --> 539.82] that we should have -[539.82 --> 540.80] control of our lives -[540.80 --> 541.54] and of our destiny -[541.54 --> 543.04] when things like this -[543.04 --> 543.44] happen -[543.44 --> 545.68] it challenges -[545.68 --> 546.50] that belief -[546.50 --> 547.62] right -[547.62 --> 548.26] that assumption -[548.26 --> 549.72] about my agency -[549.72 --> 550.34] and my power -[550.34 --> 550.84] in the world -[550.84 --> 552.78] and we don't like it -[552.78 --> 553.74] or at least -[553.74 --> 554.72] i don't -[554.72 --> 555.28] like it -[555.28 --> 557.54] but i want to take -[557.54 --> 558.40] that even one level -[558.40 --> 558.80] deeper -[558.80 --> 560.16] if you'll go there -[560.16 --> 560.52] with me -[560.52 --> 561.10] this morning -[561.10 --> 564.02] when i start to feel -[564.02 --> 564.62] like i don't have -[564.62 --> 565.06] power -[565.06 --> 565.96] or when i don't -[565.96 --> 566.70] have control -[566.70 --> 569.44] i begin to wonder -[569.44 --> 571.42] does anyone -[571.42 --> 574.06] does god -[574.06 --> 576.34] right maybe -[576.34 --> 577.28] in those moments -[577.28 --> 578.14] we really feel -[578.14 --> 579.10] like god -[579.10 --> 580.26] has lost control -[580.26 --> 581.50] like he's left us -[581.50 --> 582.26] in this mess -[582.26 --> 583.34] like he's forgotten -[583.34 --> 583.94] about us -[583.94 --> 584.90] maybe it feels -[584.90 --> 585.34] like god -[585.34 --> 586.32] has abandoned us -[586.32 --> 587.96] and before you think -[587.96 --> 588.42] i'm a heretic -[588.42 --> 589.04] for saying that -[589.04 --> 589.82] read the book -[589.82 --> 590.40] of psalms -[590.40 --> 592.00] and you will know -[592.00 --> 592.68] that this is an -[592.68 --> 593.64] ordinary christian -[593.64 --> 594.16] question -[594.16 --> 595.78] an ordinary -[595.78 --> 596.74] encounter with god -[596.74 --> 598.68] now i get -[598.68 --> 599.52] that most of us -[599.52 --> 600.60] would never admit -[600.60 --> 601.36] that out loud -[601.36 --> 604.54] but that's the -[604.54 --> 605.20] straight line -[605.20 --> 606.90] from feeling -[606.90 --> 607.94] fear and anxiety -[607.94 --> 609.06] because we've -[609.06 --> 610.26] lost control -[610.26 --> 611.18] but believe -[611.18 --> 611.80] we should be -[611.80 --> 613.78] right -[613.78 --> 614.32] the straight line -[614.32 --> 615.20] ends that no one -[615.20 --> 615.90] is in control -[615.90 --> 616.92] right -[616.92 --> 617.54] in the depths -[617.54 --> 618.70] of our hearts -[618.70 --> 619.72] and minds -[619.72 --> 621.46] pervasively -[621.46 --> 622.14] so -[622.14 --> 623.28] there's no -[623.28 --> 624.14] other alternatives -[624.14 --> 625.98] there's no doubt -[625.98 --> 627.34] if we didn't have -[627.34 --> 628.04] this there would be -[628.04 --> 628.82] no room for fear -[628.82 --> 629.66] or anxiety -[629.66 --> 630.08] so what we're -[630.08 --> 630.70] talking about -[630.70 --> 631.52] here really -[631.52 --> 632.16] in the depths -[632.16 --> 632.44] of it -[632.44 --> 633.48] is a belief -[633.48 --> 634.20] issue -[634.20 --> 636.36] a heart issue -[636.36 --> 637.64] right this is -[637.64 --> 638.12] about what -[638.12 --> 639.36] i really believe -[639.36 --> 639.94] and what -[639.94 --> 641.10] i live out of -[641.10 --> 641.90] as a result -[641.90 --> 644.32] and so again -[644.32 --> 646.08] let's go down -[646.08 --> 647.24] one more level -[647.24 --> 648.32] deeper -[648.32 --> 650.72] when we feel -[650.72 --> 651.30] that way -[651.30 --> 653.66] what does it -[653.66 --> 654.02] mean -[654.02 --> 655.00] for who i -[655.00 --> 656.14] believe god -[656.14 --> 656.96] is -[656.96 --> 658.70] right with -[658.70 --> 659.28] everything that's -[659.28 --> 659.92] going on -[659.92 --> 660.48] with everything -[660.48 --> 661.00] that i feel -[661.00 --> 661.42] with all that -[661.42 --> 662.26] fear and anxiety -[662.26 --> 662.74] that's in the -[662.74 --> 663.08] system -[663.08 --> 663.56] right -[663.56 --> 664.90] it feels like -[664.90 --> 665.80] god is distant -[665.80 --> 666.82] it feels like -[666.82 --> 667.34] he doesn't really -[667.34 --> 667.84] care -[667.84 --> 668.72] that he doesn't -[668.72 --> 669.22] really have -[669.22 --> 669.64] power -[669.64 --> 671.66] and so you see -[671.66 --> 672.32] what's happening -[672.32 --> 673.06] right and again -[673.06 --> 673.52] we would never -[673.52 --> 674.18] say this out -[674.18 --> 674.46] loud -[674.46 --> 676.84] but that feeling -[676.84 --> 677.48] of fear -[677.48 --> 678.52] and anxiety -[678.52 --> 679.44] that reacting -[679.44 --> 680.12] in fear -[680.12 --> 680.62] that we do -[680.62 --> 681.80] allowing fear -[681.80 --> 682.88] to determine -[682.88 --> 684.14] my actions -[684.14 --> 684.68] in the world -[684.68 --> 685.46] and my belief -[685.46 --> 686.00] in god -[686.00 --> 686.64] or my belief -[686.64 --> 687.12] in the god -[687.12 --> 687.60] of the bible -[687.60 --> 688.74] comes up to -[688.74 --> 689.50] this place -[689.50 --> 690.54] that that fear -[690.54 --> 691.56] is the fruit -[691.56 --> 692.44] of some other -[692.44 --> 692.94] belief -[692.94 --> 694.24] some other -[694.24 --> 694.78] idea -[694.78 --> 696.80] right some -[696.80 --> 697.94] other concept -[697.94 --> 698.66] of what i think -[698.66 --> 699.24] is true -[699.24 --> 700.58] worry -[700.58 --> 701.90] is the fruit -[701.90 --> 702.54] of a belief -[702.54 --> 703.04] that god -[703.04 --> 703.82] really isn't -[703.82 --> 704.44] in control -[704.44 --> 705.60] that god -[705.60 --> 706.14] has abandoned -[706.14 --> 706.72] me or -[706.72 --> 707.72] or left me -[707.72 --> 708.44] to my own -[708.44 --> 708.96] devices -[708.96 --> 710.48] and the kind -[710.48 --> 711.12] of anxiety -[711.12 --> 712.34] that rules us -[712.34 --> 712.98] and weighs us -[712.98 --> 713.82] down is really -[713.82 --> 714.38] the fruit -[714.38 --> 715.20] of an idea -[715.20 --> 716.52] or a claim -[716.52 --> 717.06] a belief -[717.06 --> 717.74] assumption -[717.74 --> 718.68] of god -[718.68 --> 719.50] that says -[719.50 --> 720.30] he ultimately -[720.30 --> 721.06] doesn't have -[721.06 --> 721.56] agency -[721.56 --> 722.64] in the world -[722.64 --> 724.08] and neither -[724.08 --> 724.44] do we -[724.44 --> 727.78] now again -[727.78 --> 728.68] most of us -[728.68 --> 729.62] don't really -[729.62 --> 730.78] dig this deep -[730.78 --> 731.58] into our -[731.58 --> 732.30] experiences -[732.30 --> 733.02] and emotions -[733.02 --> 733.54] and our -[733.54 --> 733.92] beliefs -[733.92 --> 734.88] regularly -[734.88 --> 736.48] right -[736.48 --> 736.84] oftentimes -[736.84 --> 737.68] we feel -[737.68 --> 738.30] that anxiety -[738.30 --> 738.98] or fear -[738.98 --> 739.58] and we try -[739.58 --> 739.98] to push it -[739.98 --> 740.30] away -[740.30 --> 740.82] we try -[740.82 --> 741.20] to ignore -[741.20 --> 741.38] it -[741.38 --> 741.64] or we -[741.64 --> 742.12] project it -[742.12 --> 742.46] on someone -[742.46 --> 742.70] else -[742.70 --> 742.98] we make -[742.98 --> 743.24] it someone -[743.24 --> 743.60] else's -[743.60 --> 743.96] problem -[743.96 --> 744.26] and we -[744.26 --> 744.92] blame them -[744.92 --> 746.12] right -[746.12 --> 746.72] we distance -[746.72 --> 747.14] ourselves -[747.14 --> 747.64] from it -[747.64 --> 748.88] but really -[748.88 --> 749.54] think about -[749.54 --> 749.90] it -[749.90 --> 751.18] right -[751.18 --> 751.98] I believe -[751.98 --> 753.16] that part -[753.16 --> 753.80] of Christian -[753.80 --> 754.64] discipleship -[754.64 --> 755.30] part of -[755.30 --> 756.10] my job -[756.10 --> 756.80] as pastor -[756.80 --> 757.66] is to ask -[757.66 --> 758.30] those questions -[758.30 --> 758.74] that nobody -[758.74 --> 759.56] else will ask -[759.56 --> 760.24] in your life -[760.24 --> 761.14] and I think -[761.14 --> 761.56] that part -[761.56 --> 761.86] of that -[761.86 --> 762.80] is wondering -[762.80 --> 763.46] about -[763.46 --> 764.16] and thinking -[764.16 --> 764.52] about -[764.52 --> 765.00] what does -[765.00 --> 765.36] it mean -[765.36 --> 766.00] to take -[766.00 --> 766.92] every thought -[766.92 --> 767.34] captive -[767.34 --> 768.00] to Christ -[768.00 --> 769.06] right -[769.06 --> 769.28] that's -[769.28 --> 769.86] 2 Corinthians -[769.86 --> 770.24] 10 -[770.24 --> 771.26] we have -[771.26 --> 771.72] to test -[771.72 --> 772.48] every feeling -[772.48 --> 773.02] together -[773.02 --> 773.86] every fear -[773.86 --> 774.92] every anxiety -[774.92 --> 775.66] every worry -[775.66 --> 776.80] we test -[776.80 --> 777.50] these feelings -[777.50 --> 777.86] against -[777.86 --> 778.98] what we know -[778.98 --> 779.72] to be true -[779.72 --> 780.86] in the gospel -[780.86 --> 783.16] because again -[783.16 --> 783.54] right -[783.54 --> 784.10] here's the -[784.10 --> 785.10] parallel thing -[785.10 --> 785.90] in all of this -[785.90 --> 787.08] even when I -[787.08 --> 788.18] feel fear -[788.18 --> 788.88] and anxiety -[788.88 --> 789.58] even when I -[789.58 --> 790.16] can trace -[790.16 --> 790.94] the fruit -[790.94 --> 791.76] of that feeling -[791.76 --> 792.60] to a belief -[792.60 --> 793.54] that it's growing -[793.54 --> 794.02] out of -[794.02 --> 794.82] that it's rooted -[794.82 --> 795.02] in -[795.02 --> 795.94] even when I -[795.94 --> 796.74] live like -[796.74 --> 797.42] God isn't -[797.42 --> 798.26] in control -[798.26 --> 798.82] when it feels -[798.82 --> 799.20] like he's -[799.20 --> 799.50] distant -[799.50 --> 800.14] or when he's -[800.14 --> 800.72] abandoned me -[800.72 --> 801.32] it feels -[801.32 --> 801.86] like he doesn't -[801.86 --> 802.06] care -[802.06 --> 803.00] even when -[803.00 --> 803.66] I think -[803.66 --> 804.20] all of that -[804.20 --> 804.68] is true -[804.68 --> 805.40] in my head -[805.40 --> 806.52] I know -[806.52 --> 807.60] in my heart -[807.60 --> 808.26] that there is -[808.26 --> 809.24] a greater truth -[809.24 --> 809.96] I know -[809.96 --> 810.62] in my heart -[810.62 --> 811.08] that there's -[811.08 --> 811.42] a true -[811.42 --> 811.94] and better -[811.94 --> 812.46] story -[812.46 --> 813.12] than the one -[813.12 --> 813.54] that I am -[813.54 --> 814.34] telling myself -[814.34 --> 814.72] right now -[814.72 --> 815.14] than the one -[815.14 --> 815.46] that I'm -[815.46 --> 816.28] living out -[816.28 --> 816.80] of right now -[816.80 --> 817.50] and so -[817.50 --> 818.12] I need to -[818.12 --> 818.74] confess -[818.74 --> 819.56] the lie -[819.56 --> 820.00] that I have -[820.00 --> 820.70] been living -[820.70 --> 821.10] out of -[821.10 --> 821.80] and believing -[821.80 --> 822.76] and feeling -[822.76 --> 823.06] from -[823.06 --> 823.44] and I need -[823.44 --> 824.02] to remind -[824.02 --> 824.60] myself -[824.60 --> 825.22] of that -[825.22 --> 825.80] story -[825.80 --> 828.58] it's one -[828.58 --> 828.86] of the reasons -[828.86 --> 829.38] why worship -[829.38 --> 830.14] is so important -[830.14 --> 831.58] gathering in -[831.58 --> 832.06] community -[832.06 --> 832.52] together -[832.52 --> 833.76] is so critical -[833.76 --> 835.46] we've got to -[835.46 --> 836.44] preach the gospel -[836.44 --> 837.96] to our fears -[837.96 --> 838.88] and our worries -[838.88 --> 839.96] and anxieties -[839.96 --> 842.04] so we've got to -[842.04 --> 842.56] ask what does -[842.56 --> 843.38] the bible say -[843.38 --> 844.08] to my fear -[844.08 --> 844.98] what does the bible -[844.98 --> 846.44] say to my anxiety -[846.44 --> 847.94] what does Jesus say -[847.94 --> 849.04] how does the gospel -[849.04 --> 849.82] give me something -[849.82 --> 850.24] better -[850.24 --> 852.72] with that in mind -[852.72 --> 853.58] I want to pull -[853.58 --> 854.98] on one string -[854.98 --> 856.32] from the text -[856.32 --> 856.98] that we read -[856.98 --> 858.42] together -[858.42 --> 859.90] just one -[859.90 --> 860.62] string -[860.62 --> 861.46] one theme -[861.46 --> 862.76] out of that text -[862.76 --> 864.08] if your bibles -[864.08 --> 864.80] are still in front -[864.80 --> 865.10] of you -[865.10 --> 865.76] if you have -[865.76 --> 866.24] that story -[866.24 --> 867.36] verse 46 -[867.36 --> 869.76] we read -[869.76 --> 870.46] once more -[870.46 --> 871.04] he visited -[871.04 --> 871.50] Cana -[871.50 --> 872.24] in Galilee -[872.24 --> 872.86] where he had -[872.86 --> 873.68] turned the water -[873.68 --> 874.46] into wine -[874.46 --> 874.98] and there was -[874.98 --> 875.46] a certain -[875.46 --> 876.32] royal official -[876.32 --> 877.00] whose son -[877.00 --> 877.80] lay sick -[877.80 --> 879.16] at Capernaum -[879.16 --> 880.68] and when this -[880.68 --> 881.22] man had heard -[881.22 --> 881.64] that Jesus -[881.64 --> 882.18] had arrived -[882.18 --> 882.64] in Galilee -[882.64 --> 883.20] from Judea -[883.20 --> 883.70] he went -[883.70 --> 884.12] to him -[884.12 --> 885.04] and begged -[885.04 --> 885.72] him to come -[885.72 --> 886.22] and heal -[886.22 --> 886.82] his son -[886.82 --> 887.22] who was -[887.22 --> 887.72] close -[887.72 --> 888.92] to death -[888.92 --> 890.88] so Jesus -[890.88 --> 891.82] is in Samaria -[891.82 --> 893.22] to the west -[893.22 --> 893.72] of here -[893.72 --> 894.16] where he -[894.16 --> 895.22] was -[895.22 --> 897.22] doing some work -[897.22 --> 897.78] and some ministry -[897.78 --> 898.88] remember he met -[898.88 --> 899.30] the woman -[899.30 --> 899.86] at the well -[899.86 --> 900.88] he told her -[900.88 --> 901.96] all about her life -[901.96 --> 902.28] and her -[902.28 --> 903.88] previous marriages -[903.88 --> 904.56] and sin -[904.56 --> 905.40] and she was -[905.40 --> 906.34] convicted by -[906.34 --> 907.20] this encounter -[907.20 --> 907.66] with Jesus -[907.66 --> 908.56] and a number -[908.56 --> 908.98] of people -[908.98 --> 909.70] came to believe -[909.70 --> 910.20] as a result -[910.20 --> 910.50] of that -[910.50 --> 911.76] Jesus leaves -[911.76 --> 912.64] that experience -[912.64 --> 913.22] in Samaria -[913.22 --> 913.78] and he comes -[913.78 --> 914.62] back to Galilee -[914.62 --> 915.46] this is his -[915.46 --> 916.22] home region -[916.22 --> 917.08] right -[917.08 --> 917.66] this is -[917.66 --> 918.82] northern Israel -[918.82 --> 919.48] he goes back -[919.48 --> 920.02] to Canaan -[920.02 --> 921.20] where he did -[921.20 --> 921.90] his first miracle -[921.90 --> 922.64] you know the story -[922.64 --> 923.14] right -[923.14 --> 923.68] turned water -[923.68 --> 924.24] into wine -[924.24 --> 924.90] John 2 -[924.90 --> 926.40] while there -[926.40 --> 927.20] in Cana -[927.20 --> 928.48] a certain -[928.48 --> 929.30] royal official -[929.30 --> 930.08] comes to him -[930.08 --> 931.08] it's probably -[931.08 --> 932.02] a royal official -[932.02 --> 933.38] of a gentleman -[933.38 --> 934.76] named Herod Antipas -[934.76 --> 935.86] who was one -[935.86 --> 936.86] of the three sons -[936.86 --> 937.92] of Herod the Great -[937.92 --> 939.62] who divided -[939.62 --> 940.44] his kingdom -[940.44 --> 942.28] up to those -[942.28 --> 943.50] his three boys -[943.50 --> 944.56] that region -[944.56 --> 945.00] up there -[945.00 --> 946.86] going to Herod Antipas -[946.86 --> 951.00] the official -[951.00 --> 952.40] has a son -[952.40 --> 953.98] who's sick -[953.98 --> 955.08] and not just -[955.08 --> 955.94] sick -[955.94 --> 957.00] he's on his -[957.00 --> 957.52] deathbed -[957.52 --> 960.00] and he begs -[960.00 --> 960.34] Jesus -[960.34 --> 961.18] to come -[961.18 --> 962.04] to Capernaum -[962.04 --> 962.70] to heal -[962.70 --> 963.12] the boy -[963.12 --> 965.40] how would you -[965.40 --> 965.82] feel -[965.82 --> 967.46] that was your -[967.46 --> 967.70] son -[967.70 --> 969.86] how would you -[969.86 --> 970.28] feel if that -[970.28 --> 970.90] was your child -[970.90 --> 973.00] who's sick -[973.00 --> 973.84] and close -[973.84 --> 974.38] to death -[974.38 --> 975.98] right the doctors -[975.98 --> 976.78] have done the best -[976.78 --> 977.28] they could -[977.28 --> 978.04] and are unable -[978.04 --> 978.78] to do anything -[978.78 --> 980.36] what would be -[980.36 --> 981.10] your experience -[981.10 --> 982.82] and I know -[982.82 --> 983.24] that for some -[983.24 --> 983.62] of us -[983.62 --> 984.38] this morning -[984.38 --> 985.08] that's not -[985.08 --> 985.38] just an -[985.38 --> 985.76] intellectual -[985.76 --> 986.34] question -[986.34 --> 988.28] that's a -[988.28 --> 989.02] reality lived -[989.02 --> 993.48] there's anxiety -[993.48 --> 995.34] in the system -[995.34 --> 997.22] there's fear -[997.22 --> 997.92] and there's -[997.92 --> 998.46] worry -[998.46 --> 1001.06] there's -[1001.06 --> 1002.18] chaos -[1002.18 --> 1002.96] at no one -[1002.96 --> 1003.46] being in -[1003.46 --> 1003.88] control -[1003.88 --> 1006.20] this is -[1006.20 --> 1006.42] what we -[1006.42 --> 1007.22] are encountering -[1007.22 --> 1008.26] and there's -[1008.26 --> 1008.62] trust -[1008.62 --> 1009.04] and there's -[1009.04 --> 1009.26] hope -[1009.26 --> 1009.66] and there's -[1009.66 --> 1009.98] joy -[1009.98 --> 1010.72] right -[1010.72 --> 1011.14] in moments -[1011.14 --> 1011.48] like this -[1011.48 --> 1011.68] there's -[1011.68 --> 1012.42] this strange -[1012.42 --> 1012.92] mix -[1012.92 --> 1013.46] of all -[1013.46 --> 1013.88] of these -[1013.88 --> 1014.20] things -[1014.20 --> 1014.76] moving -[1014.76 --> 1015.18] around -[1015.18 --> 1015.90] inside -[1015.90 --> 1016.36] of us -[1016.36 --> 1017.22] now -[1017.22 --> 1017.72] Jesus -[1017.72 --> 1018.30] right -[1018.30 --> 1018.84] knows -[1018.84 --> 1019.26] the hearts -[1019.26 --> 1019.84] and minds -[1019.84 --> 1020.42] of people -[1020.42 --> 1021.08] we read -[1021.08 --> 1021.42] that in -[1021.42 --> 1021.82] the gospel -[1021.82 --> 1022.50] he knows -[1022.50 --> 1022.92] what this -[1022.92 --> 1023.32] man is -[1023.32 --> 1023.64] feeling -[1023.64 --> 1024.18] he knows -[1024.18 --> 1024.96] exactly -[1024.96 --> 1026.20] the anxiety -[1026.20 --> 1026.76] and worry -[1026.76 --> 1027.06] that he -[1027.06 --> 1027.40] has -[1027.40 --> 1027.98] in his -[1027.98 --> 1028.28] heart -[1028.28 --> 1030.12] and what -[1030.12 --> 1030.60] does Jesus -[1030.60 --> 1031.10] say to -[1031.10 --> 1031.32] him -[1031.32 --> 1033.86] can I -[1033.86 --> 1034.20] be honest -[1034.20 --> 1034.52] with you -[1034.52 --> 1034.96] and just -[1034.96 --> 1035.64] blunt -[1035.64 --> 1037.84] he doesn't -[1037.84 --> 1038.28] say to -[1038.28 --> 1038.74] this man -[1038.74 --> 1039.08] what I -[1039.08 --> 1039.60] want Jesus -[1039.60 --> 1040.10] to say -[1040.10 --> 1042.72] right -[1042.72 --> 1043.06] I want -[1043.06 --> 1043.56] Jesus to -[1043.56 --> 1043.88] get on -[1043.88 --> 1044.42] his horse -[1044.42 --> 1045.02] and to -[1045.02 --> 1045.38] go -[1045.38 --> 1046.56] I want -[1046.56 --> 1047.10] Jesus to -[1047.10 --> 1047.36] say -[1047.36 --> 1048.30] yes man -[1048.30 --> 1048.74] I hear -[1048.74 --> 1048.92] you -[1048.92 --> 1049.38] I got -[1049.38 --> 1049.62] you -[1049.62 --> 1050.16] in my -[1050.16 --> 1050.52] hands -[1050.52 --> 1051.08] let's -[1051.08 --> 1051.56] go heal -[1051.56 --> 1051.78] that -[1051.78 --> 1052.06] boy -[1052.06 --> 1054.58] but he -[1054.58 --> 1055.16] doesn't -[1055.16 --> 1056.44] he doesn't -[1056.44 --> 1057.16] do that -[1057.16 --> 1059.78] he says -[1059.78 --> 1060.42] unless you -[1060.42 --> 1061.00] see signs -[1061.00 --> 1061.62] and wonders -[1061.62 --> 1062.80] you will -[1062.80 --> 1062.98] never -[1062.98 --> 1063.46] believe -[1063.46 --> 1064.44] what -[1064.44 --> 1066.32] what are -[1066.32 --> 1066.56] we supposed -[1066.56 --> 1066.86] to do -[1066.86 --> 1067.12] with the -[1067.12 --> 1067.40] Jesus -[1067.40 --> 1067.88] who does -[1067.88 --> 1068.22] that -[1068.22 --> 1070.36] I suggest -[1070.36 --> 1070.68] to you -[1070.68 --> 1071.56] maybe we -[1071.56 --> 1071.70] should -[1071.70 --> 1072.06] listen -[1072.06 --> 1074.70] I'm going -[1074.70 --> 1074.90] to come -[1074.90 --> 1075.18] back to -[1075.18 --> 1075.36] in a -[1075.36 --> 1075.60] moment -[1075.60 --> 1076.76] but notice -[1076.76 --> 1077.04] what the -[1077.04 --> 1077.30] official -[1077.30 --> 1077.76] does -[1077.76 --> 1078.36] or rather -[1078.36 --> 1078.66] what he -[1078.66 --> 1079.08] doesn't -[1079.08 --> 1079.38] do -[1079.38 --> 1080.74] right -[1080.74 --> 1081.14] he doesn't -[1081.14 --> 1081.60] panic -[1081.60 --> 1082.52] he doesn't -[1082.52 --> 1082.76] lose -[1082.76 --> 1083.16] heart -[1083.16 --> 1083.78] he doesn't -[1083.78 --> 1084.32] give up -[1084.32 --> 1085.70] but I -[1085.70 --> 1086.16] imagine in -[1086.16 --> 1086.56] that moment -[1086.56 --> 1086.78] he -[1086.78 --> 1087.60] would take -[1087.60 --> 1087.92] a deep -[1087.92 --> 1088.24] breath -[1088.24 --> 1088.58] he would -[1088.58 --> 1089.00] step -[1089.00 --> 1089.74] one more -[1089.74 --> 1090.08] step -[1090.08 --> 1090.74] closer to -[1090.74 --> 1091.04] Jesus -[1091.04 --> 1091.72] and he -[1091.72 --> 1092.08] would say -[1092.08 --> 1092.52] sir -[1092.52 --> 1093.58] please -[1093.58 --> 1094.42] come -[1094.42 --> 1095.24] before my -[1095.24 --> 1096.14] child dies -[1096.14 --> 1099.14] to which -[1099.14 --> 1099.76] Jesus then -[1099.76 --> 1100.22] says -[1100.22 --> 1101.26] go -[1101.26 --> 1102.76] your son -[1102.76 --> 1104.08] will live -[1104.08 --> 1106.46] that's it -[1106.46 --> 1108.56] that's all -[1108.56 --> 1109.16] he says -[1109.16 --> 1110.64] right -[1110.64 --> 1111.64] a word -[1111.64 --> 1112.26] from Jesus -[1112.26 --> 1112.54] right -[1112.54 --> 1113.12] five words -[1113.12 --> 1113.42] really -[1113.42 --> 1114.52] one sentence -[1114.52 --> 1116.54] and that's -[1116.54 --> 1117.04] the thread -[1117.04 --> 1117.68] that I -[1117.68 --> 1117.88] want to -[1117.88 --> 1118.38] pull on -[1118.38 --> 1119.38] for a -[1119.38 --> 1119.62] moment -[1119.62 --> 1121.36] life -[1121.36 --> 1122.10] comes to -[1122.10 --> 1122.72] this boy -[1122.72 --> 1124.64] from a -[1124.64 --> 1125.22] word -[1125.22 --> 1126.92] from Jesus -[1126.92 --> 1128.98] he doesn't -[1128.98 --> 1129.44] do anything -[1129.44 --> 1129.82] else -[1129.82 --> 1130.94] right -[1130.94 --> 1131.38] he simply -[1131.38 --> 1132.06] speaks -[1132.06 --> 1133.32] it's not -[1133.32 --> 1133.86] dramatic -[1133.86 --> 1134.70] it might -[1134.70 --> 1135.10] even seem -[1135.10 --> 1135.96] anticlimactic -[1135.96 --> 1136.74] in the midst -[1136.74 --> 1136.98] of it -[1136.98 --> 1137.54] but the -[1137.54 --> 1138.04] reality is -[1138.04 --> 1138.92] that's all -[1138.92 --> 1139.62] you need -[1139.62 --> 1141.68] one word -[1141.68 --> 1142.96] from Jesus -[1142.96 --> 1145.22] his word -[1145.22 --> 1146.16] gives -[1146.16 --> 1147.00] you -[1147.00 --> 1148.20] life -[1148.20 --> 1150.52] and here's -[1150.52 --> 1150.90] the thing -[1150.90 --> 1151.20] right -[1151.20 --> 1151.78] again -[1151.78 --> 1152.52] let's be -[1152.52 --> 1152.80] honest -[1152.80 --> 1153.16] with each -[1153.16 --> 1153.38] other -[1153.38 --> 1154.74] we kind -[1154.74 --> 1155.08] of want -[1155.08 --> 1155.32] more -[1155.32 --> 1155.76] from him -[1155.76 --> 1156.64] am I -[1156.64 --> 1156.90] right -[1156.90 --> 1157.74] right -[1157.74 --> 1158.04] we want -[1158.04 --> 1158.76] some display -[1158.76 --> 1159.38] of power -[1159.38 --> 1160.04] we want -[1160.04 --> 1160.40] something -[1160.40 --> 1160.92] exciting -[1160.92 --> 1161.68] and dramatic -[1161.68 --> 1162.18] but all -[1162.18 --> 1162.74] he does -[1162.74 --> 1164.10] is speak -[1164.10 --> 1165.66] it's -[1165.66 --> 1166.20] ordinary -[1166.20 --> 1167.42] it's -[1167.42 --> 1167.82] simple -[1167.82 --> 1168.64] it's -[1168.64 --> 1169.20] straightforward -[1169.20 --> 1170.12] and it -[1170.12 --> 1170.84] is filled -[1170.84 --> 1171.44] with the -[1171.44 --> 1171.84] power -[1171.84 --> 1172.56] of the -[1172.56 --> 1172.90] life -[1172.90 --> 1173.44] of the -[1173.44 --> 1173.76] spirit -[1173.76 --> 1175.32] it is -[1175.32 --> 1176.10] his word -[1176.10 --> 1176.74] filled -[1176.74 --> 1177.08] with the -[1177.08 --> 1177.42] power -[1177.42 --> 1178.00] of life -[1178.00 --> 1178.72] and his -[1178.72 --> 1179.12] word -[1179.12 --> 1180.08] is all -[1180.08 --> 1180.58] you -[1180.58 --> 1181.22] need -[1181.22 --> 1182.72] if there -[1182.72 --> 1183.02] was one -[1183.02 --> 1183.34] theme -[1183.34 --> 1183.54] that we -[1183.54 --> 1183.88] could take -[1183.88 --> 1184.12] home -[1184.12 --> 1184.44] kids -[1184.44 --> 1184.66] if -[1184.66 --> 1184.98] your -[1184.98 --> 1186.10] parents -[1186.10 --> 1186.32] are going -[1186.32 --> 1186.64] to ask -[1186.64 --> 1186.80] you -[1186.80 --> 1187.20] in a -[1187.20 --> 1187.38] few -[1187.38 --> 1187.74] hours -[1187.74 --> 1188.18] what -[1188.18 --> 1188.40] this -[1188.40 --> 1188.70] service -[1188.70 --> 1188.92] was -[1188.92 --> 1189.24] about -[1189.24 --> 1189.88] that's -[1189.88 --> 1190.04] the -[1190.04 --> 1190.40] answer -[1190.40 --> 1190.94] his -[1190.94 --> 1191.32] word -[1191.32 --> 1191.64] is -[1191.64 --> 1191.86] all -[1191.86 --> 1192.06] you -[1192.06 --> 1192.34] need -[1192.34 --> 1193.76] that's -[1193.76 --> 1193.88] what -[1193.88 --> 1194.06] this -[1194.06 --> 1194.18] is -[1194.18 --> 1194.46] about -[1194.46 --> 1194.98] that's -[1194.98 --> 1195.16] what's -[1195.16 --> 1195.38] going -[1195.38 --> 1195.66] on -[1195.66 --> 1195.86] here -[1195.86 --> 1196.56] ordinary -[1196.56 --> 1197.24] simple -[1197.24 --> 1198.16] straightforward -[1198.16 --> 1198.82] his -[1198.82 --> 1199.14] word -[1199.14 --> 1201.60] we don't -[1201.60 --> 1201.90] need -[1201.90 --> 1202.60] smoke -[1202.60 --> 1203.08] machines -[1203.08 --> 1203.70] we don't -[1203.70 --> 1203.90] need -[1203.90 --> 1204.48] light -[1204.48 --> 1204.92] shows -[1204.92 --> 1205.90] or whatever -[1205.90 --> 1206.22] else -[1206.22 --> 1206.94] people use -[1206.94 --> 1207.40] to try -[1207.40 --> 1207.88] and jazz -[1207.88 --> 1208.28] it up -[1208.28 --> 1209.88] we need -[1209.88 --> 1210.02] his -[1210.02 --> 1210.36] word -[1210.36 --> 1212.18] we don't -[1212.18 --> 1212.32] need -[1212.32 --> 1212.84] spectacle -[1212.84 --> 1213.48] we don't -[1213.48 --> 1213.64] need -[1213.64 --> 1214.26] fanfare -[1214.26 --> 1214.76] we don't -[1214.76 --> 1214.96] need -[1214.96 --> 1215.40] signs -[1215.40 --> 1215.60] and -[1215.60 --> 1216.00] wonders -[1216.00 --> 1216.94] we need -[1216.94 --> 1217.12] his -[1217.12 --> 1217.54] word -[1217.54 --> 1219.92] now how -[1219.92 --> 1220.18] many of -[1220.18 --> 1220.58] us believe -[1220.58 --> 1220.94] that -[1220.94 --> 1222.44] that we -[1222.44 --> 1222.60] need -[1222.60 --> 1222.76] his -[1222.76 --> 1223.06] word -[1223.06 --> 1225.72] amen -[1225.72 --> 1227.02] amen -[1227.02 --> 1227.30] amen -[1227.30 --> 1227.64] we'll -[1227.64 --> 1227.78] get -[1227.78 --> 1228.00] there -[1228.00 --> 1228.20] we'll -[1228.20 --> 1228.34] get -[1228.34 --> 1228.64] there -[1228.64 --> 1230.70] right -[1230.70 --> 1231.00] this -[1231.00 --> 1231.18] is -[1231.18 --> 1231.52] just -[1231.52 --> 1231.80] the -[1231.80 --> 1232.32] ordinary -[1232.32 --> 1233.16] means -[1233.16 --> 1233.50] of -[1233.50 --> 1234.18] grace -[1234.18 --> 1234.56] his -[1234.56 --> 1235.30] word -[1235.30 --> 1236.08] alive -[1236.08 --> 1236.62] active -[1236.62 --> 1237.16] sharper -[1237.16 --> 1237.40] than -[1237.40 --> 1237.62] any -[1237.62 --> 1237.94] double -[1237.94 --> 1238.46] edged -[1238.46 --> 1238.78] sword -[1238.78 --> 1239.20] capable -[1239.20 --> 1239.56] of -[1239.56 --> 1239.98] separating -[1239.98 --> 1240.40] truth -[1240.40 --> 1240.72] from -[1240.72 --> 1241.08] lies -[1241.08 --> 1241.66] bone -[1241.66 --> 1241.94] from -[1241.94 --> 1242.18] marrow -[1242.18 --> 1242.42] his -[1242.42 --> 1242.96] word -[1242.96 --> 1243.74] speaks -[1243.74 --> 1244.60] life -[1244.60 --> 1246.40] now -[1246.40 --> 1246.60] I'm -[1246.60 --> 1247.04] sure -[1247.04 --> 1247.76] that -[1247.76 --> 1248.06] many -[1248.06 --> 1248.26] of -[1248.26 --> 1248.36] you -[1248.36 --> 1248.62] know -[1248.62 --> 1248.82] that -[1248.82 --> 1249.00] up -[1249.00 --> 1249.28] here -[1249.28 --> 1252.28] but -[1252.28 --> 1252.42] I -[1252.42 --> 1252.62] want -[1252.62 --> 1252.72] you -[1252.72 --> 1252.86] to -[1252.86 --> 1253.28] experience -[1253.28 --> 1253.66] that -[1253.66 --> 1253.98] here -[1253.98 --> 1255.92] I -[1255.92 --> 1256.04] want -[1256.04 --> 1256.14] you -[1256.14 --> 1256.26] to -[1256.26 --> 1256.68] experience -[1256.68 --> 1256.92] that -[1256.92 --> 1257.26] in -[1257.26 --> 1257.40] a -[1257.40 --> 1257.68] way -[1257.68 --> 1257.90] that -[1257.90 --> 1258.86] transforms -[1258.86 --> 1259.58] every -[1259.58 --> 1260.20] single -[1260.20 --> 1260.82] aspect -[1260.82 --> 1261.36] of -[1261.36 --> 1261.66] who -[1261.66 --> 1261.88] you -[1261.88 --> 1262.24] are -[1262.24 --> 1262.64] and -[1262.64 --> 1262.86] what -[1262.86 --> 1263.02] you -[1263.02 --> 1263.34] do -[1263.34 --> 1263.78] and -[1263.78 --> 1264.16] how -[1264.16 --> 1264.40] you -[1264.40 --> 1264.78] show -[1264.78 --> 1265.08] up -[1265.08 --> 1265.36] in -[1265.36 --> 1265.76] life -[1265.76 --> 1268.16] and -[1268.16 --> 1268.26] so -[1268.26 --> 1268.42] let's -[1268.42 --> 1268.56] do -[1268.56 --> 1268.82] that -[1268.82 --> 1269.50] just -[1269.50 --> 1269.60] a -[1269.60 --> 1269.80] moment -[1269.80 --> 1270.64] this -[1270.64 --> 1270.76] is -[1270.76 --> 1270.88] where -[1270.88 --> 1271.06] we'll -[1271.06 --> 1271.34] land -[1271.34 --> 1271.46] the -[1271.46 --> 1271.68] plane -[1271.68 --> 1272.58] let's -[1272.58 --> 1273.00] apply -[1273.00 --> 1273.32] the -[1273.32 --> 1274.22] word -[1274.22 --> 1274.54] of -[1274.54 --> 1274.92] life -[1274.92 --> 1275.20] his -[1275.20 --> 1275.56] word -[1275.56 --> 1275.82] of -[1275.82 --> 1276.20] life -[1276.20 --> 1276.64] to -[1276.64 --> 1276.86] the -[1276.86 --> 1277.38] anxiety -[1277.38 --> 1277.74] and -[1277.74 --> 1277.88] to -[1277.88 --> 1278.02] the -[1278.02 --> 1278.30] fear -[1278.30 --> 1278.44] and -[1278.44 --> 1278.54] to -[1278.54 --> 1278.66] the -[1278.66 --> 1278.90] worry -[1278.90 --> 1279.06] that -[1279.06 --> 1279.16] we -[1279.16 --> 1279.46] started -[1279.46 --> 1279.80] with -[1279.80 --> 1281.14] I -[1281.14 --> 1281.40] remember -[1283.28 --> 1283.56] is -[1283.56 --> 1283.82] rooted -[1283.82 --> 1284.08] in -[1284.08 --> 1284.22] a -[1284.22 --> 1284.64] belief -[1284.64 --> 1284.98] or -[1284.98 --> 1285.18] an -[1285.18 --> 1285.84] unbelief -[1285.84 --> 1286.78] that -[1286.78 --> 1288.12] we -[1288.12 --> 1288.56] need -[1288.56 --> 1288.80] to -[1288.80 --> 1289.08] then -[1289.08 --> 1289.58] preach -[1289.58 --> 1289.82] the -[1289.82 --> 1290.14] truth -[1290.14 --> 1290.30] of -[1290.30 --> 1290.42] the -[1290.42 --> 1290.82] gospel -[1290.82 --> 1291.24] to -[1291.24 --> 1291.72] in -[1291.72 --> 1291.86] our -[1291.86 --> 1292.18] hearts -[1292.18 --> 1293.72] so -[1293.72 --> 1293.86] what -[1293.86 --> 1293.94] do -[1293.94 --> 1294.04] I -[1294.04 --> 1294.40] believe -[1294.40 --> 1294.68] about -[1294.68 --> 1295.04] God -[1295.04 --> 1296.00] what -[1296.00 --> 1296.12] does -[1296.12 --> 1296.28] the -[1296.28 --> 1296.64] gospel -[1296.64 --> 1297.12] say -[1297.12 --> 1297.96] about -[1297.96 --> 1298.30] God -[1298.30 --> 1299.98] I -[1299.98 --> 1300.26] believe -[1300.26 --> 1300.56] that -[1300.56 --> 1300.80] God -[1300.80 --> 1300.96] is -[1300.96 --> 1301.28] love -[1301.28 --> 1302.44] I -[1302.44 --> 1302.70] believe -[1302.70 --> 1303.00] that -[1303.00 --> 1303.14] he -[1303.14 --> 1303.36] is -[1303.36 --> 1303.74] present -[1303.74 --> 1304.00] I -[1304.00 --> 1304.38] believe -[1304.38 --> 1304.54] that -[1304.54 --> 1304.66] he -[1304.66 --> 1304.84] is -[1304.84 --> 1305.30] active -[1305.30 --> 1305.98] in -[1305.98 --> 1306.22] this -[1306.22 --> 1306.46] world -[1306.46 --> 1306.64] I -[1306.64 --> 1306.96] believe -[1306.96 --> 1307.12] that -[1307.12 --> 1307.26] not -[1307.26 --> 1307.38] a -[1307.38 --> 1307.56] hair -[1307.56 --> 1307.76] can -[1307.76 --> 1308.00] fall -[1308.00 --> 1308.20] from -[1308.20 --> 1308.36] my -[1308.36 --> 1308.58] head -[1308.58 --> 1308.80] without -[1308.80 --> 1309.04] the -[1309.04 --> 1309.24] will -[1309.24 --> 1309.36] of -[1309.36 --> 1309.52] my -[1309.52 --> 1310.16] father -[1310.16 --> 1310.40] in -[1310.40 --> 1310.62] heaven -[1310.62 --> 1311.08] I -[1311.08 --> 1311.42] believe -[1311.42 --> 1311.60] that -[1311.60 --> 1311.68] he -[1311.68 --> 1311.80] will -[1311.80 --> 1312.02] never -[1312.02 --> 1312.46] leave -[1312.46 --> 1312.74] me -[1312.74 --> 1313.10] nor -[1313.10 --> 1313.58] forsake -[1313.58 --> 1313.76] me -[1313.76 --> 1314.12] I -[1314.12 --> 1314.46] believe -[1314.46 --> 1314.66] that -[1314.66 --> 1314.78] he -[1314.78 --> 1314.96] is -[1314.96 --> 1315.66] always -[1315.66 --> 1315.90] to -[1315.90 --> 1316.08] the -[1316.08 --> 1316.36] very -[1316.36 --> 1316.76] end -[1316.76 --> 1316.92] of -[1316.92 --> 1317.32] time -[1317.32 --> 1317.92] with -[1317.92 --> 1318.26] me -[1318.26 --> 1320.66] how -[1320.66 --> 1320.78] do -[1320.78 --> 1320.88] I -[1320.88 --> 1321.04] know -[1321.04 --> 1321.32] that -[1321.32 --> 1322.86] I -[1322.86 --> 1323.10] know -[1323.10 --> 1323.26] it -[1323.26 --> 1323.50] because -[1323.50 --> 1323.70] his -[1323.70 --> 1324.02] word -[1324.02 --> 1324.92] tells -[1324.92 --> 1325.20] me -[1325.20 --> 1326.34] and -[1326.34 --> 1326.50] his -[1326.50 --> 1326.72] word -[1326.72 --> 1326.88] is -[1326.88 --> 1327.32] life -[1327.32 --> 1328.24] I -[1328.24 --> 1328.44] know -[1328.44 --> 1328.56] it -[1328.56 --> 1328.80] because -[1328.80 --> 1329.00] I've -[1329.00 --> 1329.54] experienced -[1329.54 --> 1329.96] it -[1329.96 --> 1330.20] right -[1330.20 --> 1330.86] I -[1330.86 --> 1331.06] know -[1331.06 --> 1331.20] it -[1331.20 --> 1331.44] because -[1331.44 --> 1331.76] his -[1331.76 --> 1332.24] love -[1332.24 --> 1332.50] has -[1332.50 --> 1332.84] made -[1332.84 --> 1333.10] him -[1333.10 --> 1333.42] come -[1333.42 --> 1333.76] into -[1333.76 --> 1334.02] this -[1334.02 --> 1334.28] world -[1334.28 --> 1334.66] I -[1334.66 --> 1334.86] know -[1334.86 --> 1334.98] it -[1334.98 --> 1335.22] because -[1335.22 --> 1335.62] while -[1335.62 --> 1335.86] we -[1335.86 --> 1336.04] were -[1336.04 --> 1336.30] yet -[1336.30 --> 1336.64] sinners -[1336.64 --> 1336.90] God -[1336.90 --> 1337.26] showed -[1337.26 --> 1337.46] his -[1337.46 --> 1337.72] love -[1337.72 --> 1337.96] for -[1337.96 --> 1338.30] us -[1338.30 --> 1338.76] by -[1338.76 --> 1339.18] sending -[1339.18 --> 1339.48] his -[1339.48 --> 1339.76] son -[1339.76 --> 1340.00] to -[1340.00 --> 1340.34] die -[1340.34 --> 1340.74] on -[1340.74 --> 1340.86] the -[1340.86 --> 1341.18] cross -[1341.18 --> 1341.56] I -[1341.56 --> 1341.80] know -[1341.80 --> 1341.92] it -[1341.92 --> 1342.16] because -[1342.16 --> 1342.52] God -[1342.52 --> 1342.70] is -[1342.70 --> 1343.04] so -[1343.04 --> 1343.52] active -[1343.52 --> 1343.96] in -[1343.96 --> 1344.10] the -[1344.10 --> 1344.38] world -[1344.38 --> 1344.54] that -[1344.54 --> 1344.66] he -[1344.66 --> 1345.12] created -[1345.12 --> 1345.50] that -[1345.50 --> 1345.66] he -[1345.66 --> 1346.18] came -[1346.18 --> 1346.76] into -[1346.76 --> 1347.14] this -[1347.14 --> 1347.50] world -[1347.50 --> 1348.84] I -[1348.84 --> 1349.10] know -[1349.10 --> 1349.28] it -[1349.28 --> 1349.54] because -[1349.54 --> 1349.96] Jesus -[1349.96 --> 1350.42] lived -[1350.42 --> 1350.62] the -[1350.62 --> 1350.90] life -[1350.90 --> 1351.08] I -[1351.08 --> 1351.28] should -[1351.28 --> 1351.42] have -[1351.42 --> 1351.68] lived -[1351.68 --> 1351.90] and -[1351.90 --> 1352.28] died -[1352.28 --> 1352.72] the -[1352.72 --> 1353.14] death -[1353.14 --> 1353.58] that -[1353.58 --> 1353.72] I -[1353.72 --> 1354.20] deserve -[1354.20 --> 1355.98] I -[1355.98 --> 1356.16] know -[1356.16 --> 1356.28] it -[1356.28 --> 1356.48] because -[1356.48 --> 1356.62] he -[1356.62 --> 1356.74] has -[1356.74 --> 1356.92] given -[1356.92 --> 1357.06] me -[1357.06 --> 1357.30] his -[1357.30 --> 1357.74] spirit -[1357.74 --> 1358.98] to -[1358.98 --> 1359.40] live -[1359.40 --> 1359.66] in -[1359.66 --> 1359.94] me -[1359.94 --> 1360.38] and -[1360.38 --> 1360.54] to -[1365.62 --> 1365.70] the -[1365.70 --> 1366.18] foundation -[1366.18 --> 1366.74] of -[1366.74 --> 1366.92] the -[1366.92 --> 1367.18] world -[1367.18 --> 1367.40] he -[1367.40 --> 1367.74] knew -[1367.74 --> 1368.08] me -[1368.08 --> 1368.48] and -[1368.48 --> 1368.78] in -[1368.78 --> 1369.00] the -[1369.00 --> 1369.28] world -[1369.28 --> 1369.54] he -[1369.54 --> 1370.76] lavished -[1370.76 --> 1371.02] his -[1371.02 --> 1371.40] love -[1371.40 --> 1371.66] on -[1371.66 --> 1371.90] me -[1371.90 --> 1372.10] at -[1372.10 --> 1372.24] the -[1372.24 --> 1372.68] cross -[1372.68 --> 1373.12] and -[1373.12 --> 1373.30] in -[1373.30 --> 1373.48] my -[1373.48 --> 1373.84] life -[1373.84 --> 1375.98] and -[1375.98 --> 1376.10] I -[1376.10 --> 1376.32] know -[1376.32 --> 1376.56] it -[1376.56 --> 1377.70] because -[1377.70 --> 1377.92] I've -[1377.92 --> 1378.20] seen -[1378.20 --> 1378.40] him -[1378.40 --> 1378.60] at -[1378.60 --> 1378.94] work -[1378.94 --> 1380.10] in -[1380.10 --> 1380.32] my -[1380.32 --> 1380.68] life -[1380.68 --> 1381.08] time -[1381.08 --> 1381.24] and -[1381.24 --> 1381.42] time -[1381.42 --> 1381.74] again -[1381.74 --> 1382.28] over -[1382.28 --> 1382.50] and -[1382.50 --> 1382.78] over -[1382.78 --> 1382.98] and -[1382.98 --> 1383.22] over -[1383.22 --> 1383.58] again -[1383.58 --> 1384.20] Jesus -[1384.20 --> 1384.50] has -[1384.50 --> 1385.20] transformed -[1385.20 --> 1385.52] me -[1385.52 --> 1385.74] from -[1385.74 --> 1385.98] a -[1385.98 --> 1386.48] selfish -[1386.48 --> 1387.18] smart -[1387.18 --> 1387.56] aleck -[1387.56 --> 1387.84] young -[1387.84 --> 1388.20] punk -[1388.20 --> 1388.78] into -[1388.78 --> 1389.00] the -[1389.00 --> 1389.24] man -[1389.24 --> 1389.40] that -[1389.40 --> 1389.54] I -[1389.54 --> 1389.66] am -[1389.66 --> 1390.06] becoming -[1390.06 --> 1390.46] in -[1390.46 --> 1391.02] him -[1391.02 --> 1391.20] and -[1391.20 --> 1391.36] he -[1391.36 --> 1391.56] has -[1391.56 --> 1391.80] done -[1391.80 --> 1392.02] the -[1395.62 --> 1396.00] for -[1396.00 --> 1396.16] you -[1396.16 --> 1396.36] if -[1396.36 --> 1396.50] you -[1396.50 --> 1396.70] have -[1396.70 --> 1396.94] yet -[1396.94 --> 1397.48] to -[1397.48 --> 1398.94] let -[1398.94 --> 1399.26] him -[1399.26 --> 1400.16] in -[1400.16 --> 1402.96] his -[1402.96 --> 1403.44] word -[1403.44 --> 1404.20] of -[1404.20 --> 1404.64] life -[1404.64 --> 1405.80] to -[1405.80 --> 1406.34] transform -[1406.34 --> 1409.16] and -[1409.16 --> 1409.48] that -[1409.48 --> 1410.84] my -[1410.84 --> 1411.24] friends -[1411.24 --> 1413.02] is -[1413.02 --> 1413.16] the -[1413.16 --> 1413.58] gospel -[1413.58 --> 1414.88] at -[1414.88 --> 1415.02] the -[1415.02 --> 1415.32] word -[1415.32 --> 1415.52] of -[1415.52 --> 1415.80] Jesus -[1415.80 --> 1416.06] that -[1416.06 --> 1416.48] changes -[1416.48 --> 1417.16] your -[1417.16 --> 1417.54] life -[1417.54 --> 1418.00] instead -[1418.00 --> 1418.44] of -[1418.44 --> 1419.04] fruit -[1419.04 --> 1419.36] of -[1419.36 --> 1419.82] fear -[1419.82 --> 1420.06] and -[1420.06 --> 1420.36] worry -[1420.36 --> 1420.62] and -[1420.62 --> 1421.16] anxiety -[1421.16 --> 1421.82] you -[1421.82 --> 1421.96] will -[1421.96 --> 1422.26] now -[1422.26 --> 1422.58] bear -[1422.58 --> 1422.82] out -[1422.82 --> 1423.00] a -[1423.00 --> 1423.48] completely -[1423.48 --> 1424.34] different -[1424.34 --> 1424.84] kind -[1424.84 --> 1425.32] of -[1425.32 --> 1425.68] fruit -[1425.68 --> 1426.76] right -[1426.76 --> 1427.20] peace -[1427.20 --> 1427.46] and -[1427.46 --> 1428.06] prayerfulness -[1428.06 --> 1428.80] love -[1428.80 --> 1429.06] and -[1429.06 --> 1429.76] hope -[1429.76 --> 1430.00] and -[1430.00 --> 1430.54] patience -[1430.54 --> 1430.84] and -[1430.84 --> 1431.16] joy -[1431.16 --> 1432.16] courage -[1432.16 --> 1432.54] and -[1432.54 --> 1433.32] boldness -[1433.32 --> 1434.18] confidence -[1434.18 --> 1434.74] and -[1434.74 --> 1435.30] humility -[1435.30 --> 1436.20] gentleness -[1436.20 --> 1436.70] and -[1436.70 --> 1437.28] respect -[1437.28 --> 1438.74] at -[1438.74 --> 1438.90] the -[1438.90 --> 1439.30] fruit -[1439.30 --> 1439.70] of -[1439.70 --> 1440.04] his -[1440.04 --> 1440.80] word -[1440.80 --> 1442.04] he -[1442.04 --> 1442.50] is -[1442.50 --> 1442.74] the -[1442.74 --> 1443.08] life -[1443.08 --> 1443.98] giver -[1443.98 --> 1444.26] and -[1444.26 --> 1444.66] life -[1444.66 --> 1445.52] comes -[1445.52 --> 1446.68] from -[1446.68 --> 1446.84] his -[1446.84 --> 1447.10] word -[1447.10 --> 1449.30] we -[1449.30 --> 1449.42] don't -[1449.42 --> 1449.58] make -[1449.58 --> 1450.00] decisions -[1450.00 --> 1450.30] based -[1450.30 --> 1450.48] on -[1450.48 --> 1450.88] fear -[1450.88 --> 1452.20] instead -[1452.20 --> 1452.56] we -[1452.56 --> 1452.96] practice -[1452.96 --> 1453.52] wisdom -[1453.52 --> 1454.66] and -[1454.66 --> 1455.12] prudence -[1455.12 --> 1456.32] we -[1456.32 --> 1456.58] don't -[1456.58 --> 1456.84] rush -[1456.84 --> 1457.42] headlong -[1457.42 --> 1457.80] into -[1457.80 --> 1458.26] worry -[1458.26 --> 1458.88] instead -[1458.88 --> 1459.50] as -[1459.50 --> 1459.84] Christians -[1459.84 --> 1460.08] we -[1460.08 --> 1460.46] walk -[1460.46 --> 1461.02] in -[1461.02 --> 1461.48] humility -[1461.48 --> 1463.58] we -[1463.58 --> 1463.82] don't -[1463.82 --> 1464.40] hide -[1464.40 --> 1465.12] or run -[1465.12 --> 1465.58] away -[1465.58 --> 1466.28] instead -[1466.28 --> 1467.10] we -[1467.10 --> 1467.26] love -[1467.26 --> 1467.40] our -[1467.40 --> 1467.68] neighbor -[1467.68 --> 1470.64] look -[1470.64 --> 1473.56] stockpiling -[1473.56 --> 1473.96] toilet -[1473.96 --> 1474.38] paper -[1474.38 --> 1475.94] is an -[1475.94 --> 1476.38] attempt -[1476.38 --> 1477.08] to -[1477.08 --> 1477.42] wrestle -[1477.42 --> 1478.14] control -[1478.14 --> 1478.66] back -[1478.66 --> 1479.14] from a -[1479.14 --> 1479.66] circumstance -[1479.66 --> 1480.46] that's -[1480.46 --> 1480.66] out -[1480.66 --> 1480.78] of -[1480.78 --> 1480.94] my -[1480.94 --> 1481.26] hands -[1481.26 --> 1483.14] instead -[1483.14 --> 1484.52] let's -[1484.52 --> 1484.82] be the -[1484.82 --> 1485.06] sort -[1485.06 --> 1485.20] of -[1485.20 --> 1485.56] people -[1485.56 --> 1486.20] who -[1486.20 --> 1486.58] hear -[1486.58 --> 1486.82] the -[1486.82 --> 1487.42] ordinary -[1487.42 --> 1488.40] straightforward -[1488.40 --> 1489.62] simple -[1489.62 --> 1490.18] yet -[1490.18 --> 1490.66] filled -[1490.66 --> 1490.94] with -[1490.94 --> 1491.12] the -[1491.12 --> 1491.52] power -[1491.52 --> 1491.84] of -[1491.84 --> 1492.28] life -[1492.28 --> 1492.88] word -[1492.88 --> 1493.14] of -[1493.14 --> 1493.48] Jesus -[1493.48 --> 1493.82] and -[1493.82 --> 1494.48] trust -[1494.48 --> 1495.10] in -[1495.10 --> 1495.36] his -[1495.36 --> 1495.86] control -[1495.86 --> 1497.60] we -[1497.60 --> 1497.84] listen -[1497.84 --> 1498.00] to -[1498.00 --> 1498.12] the -[1498.12 --> 1498.38] word -[1498.38 --> 1498.54] and -[1498.54 --> 1498.66] we -[1498.66 --> 1498.98] live -[1498.98 --> 1499.74] the -[1499.74 --> 1500.14] gospel -[1500.14 --> 1501.94] imagine -[1501.94 --> 1502.90] what -[1502.90 --> 1503.08] the -[1503.08 --> 1503.44] world -[1503.44 --> 1503.70] would -[1503.70 --> 1504.12] see -[1504.12 --> 1505.68] if -[1505.68 --> 1505.82] we -[1505.82 --> 1505.98] all -[1505.98 --> 1506.14] did -[1506.14 --> 1506.38] that -[1506.38 --> 1508.58] that -[1508.58 --> 1508.94] is -[1508.94 --> 1509.16] the -[1509.16 --> 1509.48] beautiful -[1509.48 --> 1509.86] life -[1509.86 --> 1510.02] of -[1510.02 --> 1510.26] Jesus -[1510.26 --> 1510.84] lived -[1510.84 --> 1511.74] in -[1511.74 --> 1511.92] each -[1511.92 --> 1512.10] one -[1512.10 --> 1512.22] of -[1512.22 --> 1512.58] us -[1512.58 --> 1514.46] imagine -[1514.46 --> 1514.80] it -[1514.80 --> 1516.52] and -[1516.52 --> 1516.66] now -[1516.66 --> 1516.84] let's -[1516.84 --> 1516.98] go -[1516.98 --> 1517.18] do -[1517.18 --> 1517.62] it -[1517.62 --> 1518.52] amen -[1518.52 --> 1520.00] amen -[1520.00 --> 1520.40] let's -[1520.40 --> 1520.54] pray -[1520.54 --> 1520.94] together -[1520.94 --> 1526.28] Lord -[1526.28 --> 1526.64] Jesus -[1526.64 --> 1527.54] these -[1527.54 --> 1528.02] are -[1528.02 --> 1528.50] your -[1528.50 --> 1529.60] words -[1529.60 --> 1531.76] you -[1531.76 --> 1531.92] have -[1531.92 --> 1532.38] spoken -[1532.38 --> 1535.74] you've -[1535.74 --> 1535.90] given -[1535.90 --> 1536.08] us -[1536.08 --> 1536.50] life -[1536.50 --> 1538.62] by -[1538.62 --> 1538.86] giving -[1538.86 --> 1539.12] up -[1539.12 --> 1539.30] your -[1539.30 --> 1539.60] own -[1539.60 --> 1540.20] life -[1540.20 --> 1542.16] now -[1542.16 --> 1542.30] in -[1542.30 --> 1542.42] the -[1542.42 --> 1542.68] power -[1542.68 --> 1542.88] of -[1542.88 --> 1543.04] the -[1543.04 --> 1543.40] spirit -[1543.40 --> 1544.54] may -[1544.54 --> 1544.70] we -[1544.70 --> 1544.98] be -[1544.98 --> 1545.66] nourished -[1545.66 --> 1546.08] here -[1546.08 --> 1546.36] at -[1546.36 --> 1546.48] your -[1546.48 --> 1546.80] table -[1546.80 --> 1548.70] we -[1548.70 --> 1549.22] speak -[1549.22 --> 1549.56] Lord -[1549.56 --> 1550.00] God -[1550.00 --> 1551.08] to -[1551.08 --> 1551.36] you -[1551.36 --> 1551.60] in -[1551.60 --> 1551.94] prayer -[1551.94 --> 1553.50] because -[1553.50 --> 1553.90] you -[1553.90 --> 1554.68] speak -[1554.68 --> 1554.90] to -[1554.90 --> 1555.30] us -[1555.30 --> 1555.92] in -[1555.92 --> 1556.06] your -[1556.06 --> 1556.40] word -[1556.40 --> 1557.80] and -[1557.80 --> 1557.94] that -[1557.94 --> 1558.34] same -[1558.34 --> 1558.86] voice -[1558.86 --> 1559.16] Lord -[1559.16 --> 1559.46] Jesus -[1559.46 --> 1560.04] spoken -[1560.04 --> 1560.34] in -[1560.34 --> 1560.50] your -[1560.50 --> 1560.78] word -[1560.78 --> 1560.98] that -[1560.98 --> 1561.22] same -[1561.22 --> 1561.68] grace -[1561.68 --> 1562.10] offered -[1562.10 --> 1562.28] in -[1562.28 --> 1562.38] the -[1562.38 --> 1562.74] gospel -[1562.74 --> 1563.46] is -[1563.46 --> 1563.84] now -[1563.84 --> 1564.28] made -[1564.28 --> 1565.12] tangible -[1565.12 --> 1565.36] that -[1565.36 --> 1565.44] we -[1565.44 --> 1565.60] can -[1565.60 --> 1566.02] taste -[1566.02 --> 1566.30] and -[1566.30 --> 1566.76] see -[1566.76 --> 1567.46] here -[1567.46 --> 1567.72] as -[1567.72 --> 1567.94] we -[1567.94 --> 1568.34] come -[1568.34 --> 1569.18] to -[1569.18 --> 1569.92] your -[1569.92 --> 1570.64] word -[1570.64 --> 1572.78] speak -[1572.78 --> 1574.10] clearly -[1574.10 --> 1575.94] here -[1575.94 --> 1576.62] and -[1576.62 --> 1576.76] at -[1576.76 --> 1576.88] the -[1576.88 --> 1577.18] table -[1577.18 --> 1578.60] that -[1578.60 --> 1578.70] we -[1578.70 --> 1578.90] might -[1578.90 --> 1579.22] speak -[1579.22 --> 1579.46] that -[1579.46 --> 1579.88] gospel -[1579.88 --> 1580.10] in -[1580.10 --> 1580.24] all -[1580.24 --> 1580.34] that -[1580.34 --> 1580.44] we -[1580.44 --> 1580.60] do -[1580.60 --> 1580.74] and -[1580.74 --> 1580.88] all -[1580.88 --> 1580.98] that -[1580.98 --> 1581.10] we -[1581.10 --> 1581.38] say -[1581.38 --> 1582.62] in -[1582.62 --> 1582.84] Jesus -[1582.84 --> 1583.24] name -[1583.24 --> 1584.34] Amen diff --git a/I Will Wait (Sermon)_summary.txt b/I Will Wait (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 312dca4cd8b9b0022870468177cbf922342d218f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/I Will Wait (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,46 +0,0 @@ -• Discussion on engaging with worship through reading the Bible and taking notes -• Reading from Isaiah 9:2-7, focusing on coming to familiar verses with fresh eyes and a fresh heart -• Personal anecdote about driving across Canada with family, experiencing challenges due to weather and distance -• Reflection on holding onto hope during difficult times and looking forward to better days -• Acknowledging the current struggles and difficulties in worship services -• The speaker discusses the challenges of worshiping in large groups with hearing difficulties. -• The importance of meaningful encounters with God in worship and the potential for passive consumption when engaging remotely. -• Advent as a time of hope, expectation, and longing for something more during difficult times such as the current pandemic. -• Struggling to cope with restrictions on social interactions and gatherings. -• Understanding the importance of submission to authority during a pandemic. -• Recognizing the need for hope in challenging situations. -• Explaining that Advent is not just about polarities (darkness/light, chaos/hope), but about navigating difficult times knowing that a better future is possible. -• The concept of being "irreducibly hope-based creatures" -• Isaiah 9 as a source of sustaining hope in the face of trial -• The context of Isaiah's prophecy during a time of corruption, destruction, and impending exile -• Isaiah's questions about God's sovereignty in history and the role of God's people in the world -• God's presence and power are sufficient even in darkness and death -• Hope comes from knowing God in Jesus, not from external sources like vaccines or healthcare -• The Christian hope is in the birth of Jesus as a son given for humanity's salvation -• Jesus' role as substitute in bearing punishment for sin and giving righteousness to believers -• The imputation of sin and righteousness -• Christ's sacrifice on the cross as a means of salvation -• The believer's identity in Christ, including being "invincible" and "more than conquerors" -• The life and death of Jesus Christ securing victory over sin and death -• Christian hope being a gift freely given through faith in God's grace -• Hope is for broken people who need it -• Christian hope comes from knowing we're not good enough and need a savior -• The Son is a gift because we don't deserve him -• The truth of God's promise of redemption must be incarnated, or made real to us -• Jesus is the embodiment of hope, and those who follow Him are called to incarnate that hope in a hopeless world -• The speaker discusses the nature of God's thinking and how humans can have hope in life and death. -• The Bible affirms that dying is a gain to be with Christ, but this hope is not solely based on heaven after death. -• There is a greater hope that involves a person who is a king with an increasing government and peace, reigning forever. -• Jesus' preaching ministry began with the announcement of the kingdom of God being near. -• The speaker draws parallels between Jesus' teachings and the concept of praying for God's kingdom to come. -• The nature of hope and its relationship to the gospel -• The kingdom of God: past, present, and future -• Living in a time of spiritual struggle and uncertainty -• The promise of new creation through Jesus Christ -• The importance of holding onto hope during trials and hardships -• Filling one's life with hope and living it out in daily actions -• Allowing people to see and hear the speaker's face, voice, and words -• Being open to the speaker's guidance and direction -• Filling people with hope and love -• Being a reflection of the speaker in daily life -• Wondering and being awed by the presence of the speaker \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/I Will Wait (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/I Will Wait (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 4db90568d21e8a24c830ef3015a473acaa5b733a..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/I Will Wait (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,989 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 11.30] there thanks Kevin for leading us in that prayer as Kevin said we're going to open -[11.30 --> 17.16] God's word together and I think the text that I'm going to read is on the screen as we go through -[17.16 --> 23.38] it but I do really want to encourage everyone especially if you're at home to do two things -[23.38 --> 30.72] one grab a bible and read along that way and keep that bible with you and open and two if you're -[30.72 --> 36.48] feeling particularly adventurous in your engagement of worship this morning grab a journal or a notebook -[36.48 --> 43.04] to write down some notes or some questions or reflections that you have as we go through and -[43.04 --> 47.90] think about how you can take those and talk about them in your household afterwards or maybe you can -[47.90 --> 53.96] email me or call me this week and we can have a discussion about all of that but a bible and a -[53.96 --> 60.24] notebook I think are great ways to just intentionally engage in this time of worship in God's word -[60.24 --> 69.14] together we're going to read from Isaiah 9 I'm going to read verse 2 through verse 7 these are really -[69.14 --> 76.06] familiar verses for many of us regularly read in the season of advent but we want to try to come at them -[76.06 --> 82.46] this morning with fresh eyes and a fresh heart to see what God might say let me read this with you -[82.46 --> 92.52] people walking in darkness have seen a great light on those living in the land of the shadow of death -[92.52 --> 101.24] a light has dawned you have enlarged the nation and increased their joy they rejoice before you as -[101.24 --> 108.18] people rejoice at the harvest as men rejoice when dividing the plunder for as in the day of Midian's -[108.18 --> 113.72] defeat you have shattered the yoke that burdens them the bar across their shoulders the rod of their -[113.72 --> 119.24] oppressor every warrior's boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for -[119.24 --> 129.66] burning will be fuel for the fire for to us a child is born to us a son is given and the government -[129.66 --> 136.36] will be on his shoulders and he will be called wonderful counselor mighty God everlasting father -[136.36 --> 144.30] and prince of peace of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end he will reign on -[144.30 --> 150.72] David's throne and over his kingdom establishing and upholding it with justice and righteous from that -[150.72 --> 159.68] time on and forever the zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this this is the word of the Lord -[159.68 --> 173.14] now two weeks ago I was driving across this vast country with my family now you may not know my family -[173.14 --> 182.56] yet but let me tell you my kids don't do long distance traveling well so you can imagine what we were -[182.56 --> 189.84] feeling as parents before we began that trip together all right I got a five-year-old and a seven-year-old -[189.84 --> 197.84] trapped in the van for what ended up being 62 hours and 4,875 kilometers -[197.84 --> 206.20] at best we might feel like Harry Potter trapped under the stairs of the Dursley house at 4 Privet Drive -[206.20 --> 213.46] at worst we might end up feeling like characters in a Saw movie trying to figure out the only way to survive -[213.46 --> 227.20] add to it all while we were driving we learned that Manitoba was closed to visitors -[227.20 --> 229.70] and so we had to drive straight through -[229.70 --> 236.82] while we were driving we learned the day before that we were scheduled to drive through western -[236.82 --> 242.48] Saskatchewan and into southeastern Alberta that they got hit with a 50 centimeter dumping of snow -[242.48 --> 249.68] we got to Moose Jaw it was minus 22 degrees celsius -[249.68 --> 254.52] we woke up in Medicine Hat it was minus 20 degrees -[254.52 --> 259.58] if you don't know me I'm not built for cold -[259.58 --> 265.90] I will take the west coast rain any day over the cold -[265.90 --> 274.62] and with all of that and with kids who don't drive well unless you throw snacks or an iPad at them -[274.62 --> 277.68] how were we gonna survive -[277.68 --> 282.04] by the grace of God absolutely amen we counted on that -[282.04 --> 285.06] but also by looking ahead -[285.06 --> 288.38] right to get across Manitoba -[288.38 --> 292.48] we cast a vision for what we would be able to do when we reached Regina -[292.48 --> 297.12] right to to get through the prairies and the cold of Alberta -[297.12 --> 300.36] we cast a vision for the Royal Tyrell Museum -[300.36 --> 302.54] and we called it Dinosaur Day -[302.54 --> 305.42] we talked about it with our kids on Dinosaur Day -[305.42 --> 307.58] we're gonna see this and we're gonna do this -[307.58 --> 312.38] point is we held out a vision for something new and awesome -[312.38 --> 314.48] that we could all put our hope in -[314.48 --> 317.36] right when the days got long and our bums got sore -[317.36 --> 319.58] we looked to a vision of the future -[319.58 --> 324.88] when tempers got short and the ability to share became in short supply -[324.88 --> 327.96] we held out hope of what was coming -[327.96 --> 330.22] right just down the road -[330.22 --> 331.76] just around the corner -[331.76 --> 333.22] just in the next city -[333.22 --> 334.74] and eventually we got to say -[334.74 --> 337.02] and look there are the mountains -[337.02 --> 340.62] hope for what is coming -[340.62 --> 343.38] after the trial -[343.38 --> 346.20] makes the trial endurable -[346.20 --> 349.84] and that's true in the little things -[349.84 --> 351.90] that's true in the middle things -[351.90 --> 354.56] and that's true in the biggest things of life -[354.56 --> 359.92] now I may not know you yet the way that I want to -[359.92 --> 362.68] but I am sure of this -[362.68 --> 365.42] we all need a little hope right now -[365.42 --> 368.24] let's be real -[368.24 --> 369.70] this sucks -[369.70 --> 373.34] this isn't how I wanted to start with you -[373.34 --> 376.42] this isn't what worship is supposed to look like -[376.42 --> 377.92] this isn't what worship is supposed to be -[377.92 --> 379.18] now don't get me wrong right -[379.18 --> 380.34] we make it work -[380.34 --> 381.28] and for some of us even -[381.28 --> 382.86] this actually works pretty good -[382.86 --> 386.10] right I'm sure there are some of us who like this format -[386.10 --> 388.90] I once had a church member say to me -[388.90 --> 392.40] I can come to church and hear 50% of what's said -[392.40 --> 394.40] or I can stay home and hear it all -[394.40 --> 396.70] right this person had hearing difficulties -[396.70 --> 399.18] in large groups and in large spaces -[399.18 --> 401.18] and so being able to sit in their living room -[401.18 --> 403.38] with their TV and everything connected -[403.38 --> 406.68] and their hearing aids tuned in to what was going on -[406.68 --> 408.18] worked really well for them -[408.18 --> 411.50] right and we do our best as leaders -[411.50 --> 415.30] to provide a meaningful encounter with God in worship -[415.30 --> 417.38] but it's hard when we can't see you -[417.38 --> 419.70] right it's hard for you -[419.70 --> 421.32] when you're sitting in the same space -[421.32 --> 423.06] that you watch football or hockey -[423.06 --> 424.22] or The Bachelor in -[424.22 --> 427.86] right it's easy to become a passive consumer -[427.86 --> 430.14] of a church product when your engagement -[430.14 --> 431.80] is through a remote and a screen -[431.80 --> 434.32] and we want more than that for you -[434.32 --> 436.82] we want more than that for our lives of faith -[436.82 --> 443.68] and so really in the the providence of God's hand at work -[443.68 --> 449.18] Advent is exactly the time and the season that we need right now -[449.18 --> 453.46] Advent is waiting based on hope -[453.46 --> 457.52] Advent is expectation of something more -[457.52 --> 460.04] when the days get short and the nights get dark -[460.04 --> 464.18] Advent is a longing in the human heart to belong -[464.18 --> 467.04] Advent is for new beginnings and a new hope -[467.04 --> 469.66] Advent is for giving voice to the loneliness -[469.66 --> 471.50] that we all feel right now -[471.50 --> 473.34] and the longing for something more -[473.34 --> 474.04] something greater -[474.04 --> 474.98] something truer -[474.98 --> 476.94] something deeper and more beautiful -[476.94 --> 479.54] than whatever our current reality is -[479.54 --> 484.02] because for some of us this current reality sucks -[484.02 --> 486.82] and there's no other way to put it -[486.82 --> 489.28] or maybe you're in a hospital -[489.28 --> 491.06] or you're in a care home -[491.06 --> 493.40] and you can't have visitors like you want -[493.40 --> 495.78] maybe you're the one who wants to visit -[495.78 --> 498.66] and you can't do that like you need to -[498.66 --> 501.88] maybe you have other health issues -[501.88 --> 503.94] and sure at least you are at home -[503.94 --> 506.06] but people can't come and visit anymore -[506.06 --> 507.18] and that sucks -[507.18 --> 510.12] maybe you're a single parent -[510.12 --> 512.10] who counted on community groups -[512.10 --> 512.88] and church groups -[512.88 --> 514.90] for that important connection -[514.90 --> 516.92] and that important experience of community -[516.92 --> 517.70] and now that's gone -[517.70 --> 522.06] maybe it's as simple as a hug -[522.06 --> 524.86] some of us just need a hug -[524.86 --> 527.62] but we're told that we shouldn't do that right now -[527.62 --> 530.36] and I love to cook -[530.36 --> 534.16] and I love sharing that love with others -[534.16 --> 536.30] I love hosting dinners and parties -[536.30 --> 538.52] and we shouldn't do that right now -[538.52 --> 540.94] and look let me be really clear okay -[540.94 --> 543.20] I'm not speaking against the restrictions -[543.20 --> 546.08] I understand the desire of the medical professionals -[546.08 --> 546.94] and of the government -[546.94 --> 547.86] I get it -[547.86 --> 550.66] and I will submit to the ruling authority -[550.66 --> 552.06] as the Bible commands me -[552.06 --> 553.46] I will honor the king -[553.46 --> 554.44] or the prime minister -[554.44 --> 555.58] or the top doctors -[555.58 --> 559.02] and I know that if we do this well right now -[559.02 --> 561.22] it will be better and shorter for everyone -[561.22 --> 563.96] but that doesn't make me like it -[563.96 --> 566.36] it doesn't make this any easier -[566.36 --> 569.90] right I can know all the rules -[569.90 --> 571.84] I can trust the authority -[571.84 --> 574.60] and the expertise of those who make the rules -[574.60 --> 576.82] and I can know that right now -[576.82 --> 578.46] this is exactly what it means -[578.46 --> 579.44] to love our neighbors -[579.44 --> 580.96] as Jesus has commanded us to -[580.96 --> 582.70] I can know all these things -[582.70 --> 585.72] and still need more in my heart -[585.72 --> 587.38] I need hope -[587.38 --> 590.20] we all need hope -[590.20 --> 592.78] that's why I like Advent -[592.78 --> 596.46] darkness and light -[596.46 --> 598.72] chaos and hope -[598.72 --> 600.68] need and fulfillment -[600.68 --> 601.88] Advent you see -[601.88 --> 604.10] isn't too much of an experience -[604.10 --> 606.46] of the tension between the polarities -[606.46 --> 609.46] as it is knowing that we walk through -[609.46 --> 611.72] the valley of the shadow of death -[611.72 --> 613.02] it's about knowing that -[613.02 --> 615.40] following the dark night of the soul -[615.40 --> 618.82] is a morning where God's mercies are new -[618.82 --> 621.76] right here's the thing -[621.76 --> 623.84] that Advent helps us understand -[623.84 --> 625.20] about our humanity -[625.20 --> 626.98] about being human -[626.98 --> 631.90] what we believe about our future -[631.90 --> 633.76] completely controls -[633.76 --> 636.74] how we experience our present -[636.74 --> 640.22] that's our theme for this morning -[640.22 --> 642.16] what we believe about our future -[642.16 --> 643.38] completely controls -[643.38 --> 645.98] how we experience our present -[645.98 --> 649.34] now I read something this week -[649.34 --> 650.90] that said -[650.90 --> 657.16] we are irreducibly hope-based creatures -[657.16 --> 659.64] and I love that language -[659.64 --> 660.06] right -[660.06 --> 664.66] irreducibly hope-based creatures -[664.66 --> 668.10] and since we are hope-based creatures -[668.10 --> 670.30] we will always be putting our hope -[670.30 --> 671.78] into something -[671.78 --> 672.84] into someone -[672.84 --> 674.78] we need hope -[674.78 --> 676.56] we need a vision of the future -[676.56 --> 679.06] that compels us to action -[679.06 --> 681.50] that encourages us to endure -[681.50 --> 682.68] that carries us -[682.68 --> 685.40] when everything else is pushing us down -[685.40 --> 688.12] and that's what Isaiah 9 -[688.12 --> 690.06] is for the people of Israel -[690.06 --> 691.86] that's why Isaiah 9 -[691.86 --> 693.18] is so often picked up -[693.18 --> 695.10] in this season of Advent -[695.10 --> 695.82] right -[695.82 --> 697.42] the verses of Isaiah 9 -[697.42 --> 698.16] that we read -[698.16 --> 700.62] give us a compelling picture -[700.62 --> 702.50] of a sustaining hope -[702.50 --> 703.36] for the future -[703.36 --> 705.00] in the face of trial -[705.00 --> 708.08] because of who Isaiah 9 -[708.08 --> 710.28] is revealing to us -[710.28 --> 711.52] and to our hearts -[711.52 --> 713.48] look at it with me -[713.48 --> 715.06] verse 2 says -[715.06 --> 717.30] the people walking in darkness -[717.30 --> 719.38] have seen a great light -[719.38 --> 720.92] on those living in the land -[720.92 --> 722.08] of the shadow of death -[722.08 --> 724.10] a light has dawned -[724.10 --> 727.42] Isaiah is a prophet -[727.42 --> 729.66] in the court of the king -[729.66 --> 730.60] in Judah -[730.60 --> 732.30] the southern kingdom of Israel -[732.30 --> 733.58] after the division -[733.58 --> 734.80] in the court of Ahaz -[734.80 --> 735.66] and then after him -[735.66 --> 737.00] in the court of Hezekiah -[737.00 --> 740.00] now at this time -[740.00 --> 741.86] the northern kingdom of Israel -[741.86 --> 744.08] is facing Assyrian invaders -[744.08 --> 745.74] that will eventually destroy -[745.74 --> 746.66] that kingdom -[746.66 --> 747.76] and that northern -[747.76 --> 749.28] those Assyrian invaders -[749.28 --> 750.60] are pressing down -[750.60 --> 751.34] towards Judah -[751.34 --> 752.28] and they are threatening -[752.28 --> 753.90] the existence of this kingdom -[753.90 --> 755.50] in the south as well -[755.50 --> 758.02] now Ahaz is considered -[758.02 --> 760.50] in biblical canon -[760.50 --> 762.08] to be a wicked king -[762.08 --> 763.82] and Hezekiah after him -[763.82 --> 764.88] is often considered -[764.88 --> 765.92] to be a good king -[765.92 --> 767.02] although near the end -[767.02 --> 768.02] of Hezekiah's reign -[768.02 --> 768.66] you can see -[768.66 --> 770.88] a little bit of his selfishness -[770.88 --> 771.92] creeping through -[771.92 --> 773.40] point is -[773.40 --> 774.48] during this time -[774.48 --> 776.20] as Isaiah is speaking -[776.20 --> 777.18] this prophecy -[777.18 --> 779.04] corruption is prevalent -[779.04 --> 781.50] destruction is on the horizon -[781.50 --> 783.24] and Isaiah adds to that -[783.24 --> 784.16] by prophesying -[784.16 --> 785.56] about a coming exile -[785.56 --> 786.60] that would happen -[786.60 --> 787.60] a century later -[787.60 --> 789.26] now Isaiah -[789.26 --> 791.26] in his whole book -[791.26 --> 792.42] addresses some pretty -[792.42 --> 793.62] important questions -[793.62 --> 795.34] right he asks -[795.34 --> 796.16] if God -[796.16 --> 797.40] is truly sovereign -[797.40 --> 798.18] in history -[798.18 --> 800.04] how do we believe that -[800.04 --> 800.56] or know that -[800.56 --> 801.70] when godless nations -[801.70 --> 802.42] are stronger -[802.42 --> 803.36] than God's nation -[803.36 --> 805.10] or what role -[805.10 --> 805.84] do God's people -[805.84 --> 806.36] have to play -[806.36 --> 806.92] in the world -[806.92 --> 808.30] right is judgment -[808.30 --> 808.88] from God -[808.88 --> 809.86] the same as rejection -[809.86 --> 810.58] from God -[810.58 --> 811.98] or another way -[811.98 --> 813.02] to put all of this -[813.02 --> 813.76] right Isaiah -[813.76 --> 814.92] is wrestling with the question -[814.92 --> 816.26] where is God -[816.26 --> 817.60] when bad things happen -[817.60 --> 820.12] and that's exactly -[820.12 --> 821.10] the kind of questions -[821.10 --> 822.08] that so many of us -[822.08 --> 823.20] are asking right now -[823.20 --> 824.64] right not just -[824.64 --> 825.76] with global pandemics -[825.76 --> 826.80] like we're in the midst of -[826.80 --> 828.28] but in really important -[828.28 --> 829.34] conversations about -[829.34 --> 831.14] race and justice -[831.14 --> 831.98] and poverty -[831.98 --> 832.72] and hunger -[832.72 --> 834.06] and access to health care -[834.06 --> 834.92] or clean water -[834.92 --> 836.40] right where is God -[836.40 --> 837.48] when it's darkest -[837.48 --> 840.44] Isaiah 9 -[840.44 --> 842.26] comes with a particular -[842.26 --> 842.96] answer -[842.96 --> 845.82] John Calvin -[845.82 --> 848.02] 16th century -[848.02 --> 849.20] church reformer -[849.20 --> 850.60] he summarizes -[850.60 --> 851.42] verse 2 -[851.42 --> 852.36] by saying -[852.36 --> 854.28] even in -[854.28 --> 855.36] darkness -[855.36 --> 857.44] in death itself -[857.44 --> 858.64] there is nevertheless -[858.64 --> 860.66] good ground of hope -[860.66 --> 861.70] for the power -[861.70 --> 862.32] of God -[862.32 --> 863.08] is more -[863.08 --> 864.48] than sufficient -[864.48 --> 866.46] the power of God -[866.46 --> 867.84] is more than sufficient -[867.84 --> 870.40] that's why we can have hope -[870.40 --> 871.70] and that's what makes -[871.70 --> 872.66] you and me -[872.66 --> 873.22] different -[873.22 --> 874.06] from people -[874.06 --> 875.14] who don't know -[875.14 --> 876.64] God in Jesus -[876.64 --> 877.34] that's what makes -[877.34 --> 878.38] our hope -[878.38 --> 878.98] different -[878.98 --> 879.54] because you see -[879.54 --> 880.46] our hope -[880.46 --> 881.88] isn't in a vaccine -[881.88 --> 883.00] though that will be -[883.00 --> 883.84] a good thing -[883.84 --> 884.80] and something to -[884.80 --> 885.76] long for -[885.76 --> 886.56] our hope -[886.56 --> 887.58] isn't in a doctor -[887.58 --> 888.74] or a health care -[888.74 --> 889.96] or pharma care -[889.96 --> 890.88] though those are all -[890.88 --> 891.94] good gifts from God -[891.94 --> 892.62] and invaluable -[892.62 --> 893.66] in times of need -[893.66 --> 894.54] our hope -[894.54 --> 895.72] isn't in prime ministers -[895.72 --> 896.58] or premiers -[896.58 --> 897.24] or kings -[897.24 --> 897.80] or queens -[897.80 --> 899.02] or tech billionaires -[899.02 --> 900.48] bent on getting to Mars -[900.48 --> 901.80] though we want them -[901.80 --> 902.36] to succeed -[902.36 --> 903.72] and we will pray for them -[903.72 --> 905.04] and for their prosperity -[905.04 --> 905.82] and the prosperity -[905.82 --> 906.52] of our cities -[906.52 --> 907.60] and our countries -[907.60 --> 909.08] but our hope -[909.08 --> 909.92] is something else -[909.92 --> 911.26] and if you're with me -[911.26 --> 911.98] in this -[911.98 --> 912.58] and you're tracking -[912.58 --> 913.34] this morning -[913.34 --> 913.98] your heart -[913.98 --> 915.42] is starting to tingle -[915.42 --> 916.88] because our hope -[916.88 --> 918.74] is in a sun -[918.74 --> 921.34] for to us -[921.34 --> 922.60] a child -[922.60 --> 923.62] is born -[923.62 --> 925.76] to us -[925.76 --> 927.32] a son -[927.32 --> 928.66] is given -[928.66 --> 931.10] don't miss it -[931.10 --> 932.16] don't let -[932.16 --> 932.94] the familiarity -[932.94 --> 934.28] of this text -[934.28 --> 935.24] and this sedum -[935.24 --> 936.52] breed boredom -[936.52 --> 937.48] a child -[937.48 --> 938.16] is born -[938.16 --> 938.72] a son -[938.72 --> 939.56] is given -[939.56 --> 940.44] and the son -[940.44 --> 941.64] that the son -[941.64 --> 942.14] is given -[942.14 --> 943.10] is one of the most -[943.10 --> 944.50] important articles -[944.50 --> 945.72] of the Christian faith -[945.72 --> 946.56] right -[946.56 --> 947.14] we know -[947.14 --> 948.06] that this child -[948.06 --> 948.48] born -[948.48 --> 949.06] this son -[949.06 --> 949.38] given -[949.38 --> 950.38] is Jesus -[950.38 --> 951.14] Jesus -[951.14 --> 952.30] who was born -[952.30 --> 953.22] to be our -[953.22 --> 954.02] substitute -[954.02 --> 954.82] in obedience -[954.82 --> 956.16] and a substitute -[956.16 --> 956.72] in bearing -[956.72 --> 957.38] the punishment -[957.38 --> 958.36] for our sin -[958.36 --> 959.46] that's what it means -[959.46 --> 960.40] that he is a son -[960.40 --> 961.10] given -[961.10 --> 961.38] right -[961.38 --> 962.04] he's given -[962.04 --> 962.70] for you -[962.70 --> 963.32] he's given -[963.32 --> 964.18] to bear -[964.18 --> 964.76] your death -[964.76 --> 965.30] he's given -[965.30 --> 966.24] in order to give -[966.24 --> 967.08] you his -[967.08 --> 968.00] righteousness -[968.00 --> 970.36] he is our -[970.36 --> 971.04] substitute -[971.04 --> 972.16] who imputes -[972.16 --> 973.10] his perfect -[973.10 --> 974.04] obedience -[974.04 --> 975.42] he gives us -[975.42 --> 976.60] his righteousness -[976.60 --> 977.58] as we give -[977.58 --> 978.42] our sin -[978.42 --> 978.92] to him -[978.92 --> 979.54] our sin -[979.54 --> 980.24] is imputed -[980.24 --> 981.18] on him -[981.18 --> 982.06] he who knew -[982.06 --> 982.60] no sin -[982.60 --> 983.48] became sin -[983.48 --> 984.06] for us -[984.06 --> 984.60] that we -[984.60 --> 985.46] might become -[985.46 --> 986.54] the righteousness -[986.54 --> 987.78] of God -[987.78 --> 989.50] that's hope -[989.50 --> 991.44] that while we were -[991.44 --> 992.16] yet sinners -[992.16 --> 993.36] Christ came -[993.36 --> 994.42] and died for us -[994.42 --> 995.42] on the cross -[995.42 --> 996.68] that's hope -[996.68 --> 998.06] that I am not my own -[998.06 --> 998.66] but belong -[998.66 --> 999.60] body and soul -[999.60 --> 1000.64] in life and in death -[1000.64 --> 1001.84] to my faithful savior -[1001.84 --> 1003.00] Jesus Christ -[1003.00 --> 1004.26] that's hope -[1004.26 --> 1004.86] that Jesus -[1004.86 --> 1005.84] lived the life -[1005.84 --> 1006.70] I should have lived -[1006.70 --> 1007.88] and died the death -[1007.88 --> 1008.90] that I deserve -[1008.90 --> 1009.88] that's hope -[1009.88 --> 1010.54] that we have -[1010.54 --> 1011.68] a wonderful counselor -[1011.68 --> 1012.80] mighty God -[1012.80 --> 1014.24] everlasting father -[1014.24 --> 1015.58] and prince of peace -[1015.58 --> 1019.04] I've already quoted him -[1019.04 --> 1019.40] once -[1019.40 --> 1020.68] this morning -[1020.68 --> 1021.56] but you'll forgive me -[1021.56 --> 1022.72] because it's just so good -[1022.72 --> 1023.50] John Calvin -[1023.50 --> 1025.04] again on this point -[1025.04 --> 1025.68] he says -[1025.68 --> 1026.70] the son -[1026.70 --> 1027.38] the son is called -[1027.38 --> 1028.46] mighty God -[1028.46 --> 1030.12] because our true -[1030.12 --> 1031.48] contest is with -[1031.48 --> 1032.10] the devil -[1032.10 --> 1032.92] and death -[1032.92 --> 1033.78] and sin -[1033.78 --> 1035.48] enemies too powerful -[1035.48 --> 1036.60] and strong -[1036.60 --> 1037.80] by whom we would be -[1037.80 --> 1039.34] immediately vanquished -[1039.34 --> 1040.92] if the might of Christ -[1040.92 --> 1041.92] had not rendered -[1041.92 --> 1042.78] us -[1042.78 --> 1044.16] invincible -[1044.16 --> 1046.98] you are more -[1046.98 --> 1048.06] than conquerors -[1048.06 --> 1049.82] right for our struggle -[1049.82 --> 1050.74] is not against flesh -[1050.74 --> 1051.26] and blood -[1051.26 --> 1052.62] but against the rulers -[1052.62 --> 1053.62] and against the authorities -[1053.62 --> 1055.26] against the powers -[1055.26 --> 1056.46] of this dark world -[1056.46 --> 1058.10] and against the spiritual forces -[1058.10 --> 1058.84] of evil -[1058.84 --> 1060.28] in the heavenly realms -[1060.28 --> 1061.76] you are more -[1061.76 --> 1062.80] than conquerors -[1062.80 --> 1064.92] the life and death -[1064.92 --> 1065.56] of Jesus -[1065.56 --> 1066.96] his resurrection -[1066.96 --> 1068.56] over death -[1068.56 --> 1069.48] has secured -[1069.48 --> 1071.42] the victory of God -[1071.42 --> 1072.50] over sin -[1072.50 --> 1073.18] and death -[1073.18 --> 1073.86] and that same -[1073.86 --> 1074.60] life, death -[1074.60 --> 1075.26] and resurrection -[1075.26 --> 1076.18] of Jesus -[1076.18 --> 1077.78] secures in you -[1077.78 --> 1078.74] that victory -[1078.74 --> 1080.84] nothing can separate you -[1080.84 --> 1081.94] from the love of God -[1081.94 --> 1082.86] that is available -[1082.86 --> 1084.38] in Christ Jesus -[1084.38 --> 1086.24] that's our hope -[1086.24 --> 1088.98] and all this -[1088.98 --> 1090.72] from the words -[1090.72 --> 1091.40] to us -[1091.40 --> 1092.34] a son -[1092.34 --> 1093.40] is given -[1093.40 --> 1095.38] because you see -[1095.38 --> 1095.82] given -[1095.82 --> 1097.32] means gift -[1097.32 --> 1099.26] the gospel -[1099.26 --> 1100.02] is -[1100.02 --> 1100.78] Jesus -[1100.78 --> 1101.68] is your -[1101.68 --> 1102.52] gift -[1102.52 --> 1103.08] faith -[1103.08 --> 1104.36] is your gift -[1104.36 --> 1105.68] God's grace -[1105.68 --> 1106.68] is your -[1106.68 --> 1107.44] gift -[1107.44 --> 1108.00] and it is -[1108.00 --> 1109.10] freely given -[1109.10 --> 1111.58] Christian hope -[1111.58 --> 1112.56] doesn't belong -[1112.56 --> 1113.98] to good people -[1113.98 --> 1115.76] who have it all together -[1115.76 --> 1117.18] holy people -[1117.18 --> 1117.78] who are better -[1117.78 --> 1118.56] than our neighbors -[1118.56 --> 1120.38] Christian hope -[1120.38 --> 1122.14] belongs to broken people -[1122.14 --> 1124.10] people who need it -[1124.10 --> 1126.10] our hope is ours -[1126.10 --> 1127.32] because we know -[1127.32 --> 1128.68] that we aren't good enough -[1128.68 --> 1129.92] and that we need a savior -[1129.92 --> 1133.42] the son is a gift -[1133.42 --> 1135.56] because I don't deserve him -[1135.56 --> 1137.30] and yet he gave himself -[1137.30 --> 1137.76] for me -[1137.76 --> 1139.96] the truth -[1139.96 --> 1141.02] of God's promise -[1141.02 --> 1142.10] of redemption -[1142.10 --> 1143.18] is not just -[1143.18 --> 1143.92] in the realm -[1143.92 --> 1144.54] of ideas -[1144.54 --> 1145.74] and propositions -[1145.74 --> 1146.56] right -[1146.56 --> 1147.06] the truth -[1147.06 --> 1147.88] of God's promise -[1147.88 --> 1148.36] of redemption -[1148.36 --> 1149.10] ultimately -[1149.10 --> 1150.42] needs to be -[1150.42 --> 1151.32] incarnated -[1151.32 --> 1152.66] to us -[1152.66 --> 1153.20] a child -[1153.20 --> 1153.94] is born -[1153.94 --> 1154.86] to us -[1154.86 --> 1155.34] a son -[1155.34 --> 1156.16] is given -[1156.16 --> 1156.38] right -[1156.38 --> 1157.62] there is a straight line -[1157.62 --> 1158.70] between these words -[1158.70 --> 1159.92] here in Isaiah 9 -[1159.92 --> 1160.56] and the words -[1160.56 --> 1161.46] of John 1 -[1161.46 --> 1162.32] where we read -[1162.32 --> 1163.52] the word became flesh -[1163.52 --> 1164.42] and made his dwelling -[1164.42 --> 1165.36] among us -[1165.36 --> 1166.88] we have seen his glory -[1166.88 --> 1167.94] the glory of the one -[1167.94 --> 1168.30] and only -[1168.30 --> 1169.62] who came from the father -[1169.62 --> 1170.90] full of grace -[1170.90 --> 1171.92] and truth -[1171.92 --> 1172.34] right -[1172.34 --> 1172.94] our hope -[1172.94 --> 1174.28] isn't ether real -[1174.28 --> 1175.58] it isn't intangible -[1175.58 --> 1176.20] our hope -[1176.20 --> 1177.16] is a person -[1177.16 --> 1177.96] our hope -[1177.96 --> 1179.32] is enfleshed -[1179.32 --> 1180.62] you can touch him -[1180.62 --> 1181.88] you can see him -[1181.88 --> 1183.22] you can hold him -[1183.22 --> 1186.98] and if you are a Christian -[1186.98 --> 1189.60] hearing this message -[1189.60 --> 1190.48] this morning -[1190.48 --> 1194.32] you have that hope -[1194.32 --> 1196.94] and if you are a Christian -[1196.94 --> 1197.76] hearing this message -[1197.76 --> 1198.22] this morning -[1198.22 --> 1202.78] you are that hope -[1202.78 --> 1206.62] you are sent out -[1206.62 --> 1208.32] to incarnate -[1208.32 --> 1209.32] God's promise -[1209.32 --> 1210.66] of redemption -[1210.66 --> 1211.98] you incarnate -[1211.98 --> 1212.72] the hope -[1212.72 --> 1213.34] of Jesus -[1213.34 --> 1214.14] in a hopeless -[1214.14 --> 1215.14] age -[1215.14 --> 1215.66] right -[1215.66 --> 1216.92] it is our purpose -[1216.92 --> 1218.10] to be lights -[1218.10 --> 1219.34] in this present -[1219.34 --> 1220.02] darkness -[1220.02 --> 1220.74] to shine -[1220.74 --> 1221.70] like stars -[1221.70 --> 1222.36] in the universe -[1222.36 --> 1223.48] as we hold out -[1223.48 --> 1224.66] the word of life -[1224.66 --> 1225.94] you are hope -[1225.94 --> 1226.78] in the world -[1226.78 --> 1228.08] because through you -[1228.08 --> 1228.70] the world -[1228.70 --> 1229.52] sees -[1229.52 --> 1230.66] Jesus -[1230.66 --> 1233.84] that's who we are -[1233.84 --> 1235.18] that's what hope -[1235.18 --> 1236.04] does for us -[1236.04 --> 1239.24] now I'll -[1239.24 --> 1240.88] end it here -[1240.88 --> 1242.40] with this last thing -[1242.40 --> 1245.02] careful listeners -[1245.02 --> 1246.04] this morning -[1246.04 --> 1247.64] will have noticed -[1247.64 --> 1248.22] by now -[1248.22 --> 1249.24] that not once -[1249.24 --> 1250.50] have I said -[1250.50 --> 1251.32] that our hope -[1251.32 --> 1252.16] as Christians -[1252.16 --> 1253.50] is in leaving -[1253.50 --> 1255.34] this world behind -[1255.34 --> 1257.34] or flying away -[1257.34 --> 1257.80] to heaven -[1257.80 --> 1259.20] like the old song -[1259.20 --> 1259.60] says -[1259.60 --> 1260.36] right -[1260.36 --> 1261.26] it would be really easy -[1261.26 --> 1261.64] to say -[1261.64 --> 1262.18] that our hope -[1262.18 --> 1263.14] is in ignoring -[1263.14 --> 1263.72] this world -[1263.72 --> 1264.66] and in this life -[1264.66 --> 1266.36] because there's -[1266.36 --> 1266.68] something -[1266.68 --> 1268.18] like heaven -[1268.18 --> 1269.08] afterwards -[1269.08 --> 1269.82] the problem -[1269.82 --> 1270.70] with thinking -[1270.70 --> 1271.28] like that -[1271.28 --> 1272.18] is that God -[1272.18 --> 1272.86] doesn't think -[1272.86 --> 1273.38] like that -[1273.38 --> 1274.28] God doesn't -[1274.28 --> 1275.32] ignore this world -[1275.32 --> 1276.20] or this life -[1276.20 --> 1276.96] and so neither -[1276.96 --> 1277.48] can we -[1277.48 --> 1278.22] right -[1278.22 --> 1278.74] our hope -[1278.74 --> 1279.78] is so much -[1279.78 --> 1280.26] bigger -[1280.26 --> 1281.42] so much more -[1281.42 --> 1282.40] than heaven -[1282.40 --> 1283.54] after you die -[1283.54 --> 1284.00] now -[1284.00 --> 1285.74] don't hear -[1285.74 --> 1286.38] what I'm not saying -[1286.38 --> 1288.56] let me be really -[1288.56 --> 1289.06] clear -[1289.06 --> 1290.54] and let me slow -[1290.54 --> 1291.28] right down -[1291.28 --> 1292.04] so that we all -[1292.04 --> 1293.04] get it -[1293.04 --> 1294.46] Christians -[1294.46 --> 1295.38] who die -[1295.38 --> 1297.22] go to heaven -[1297.22 --> 1297.86] to be -[1297.86 --> 1299.08] with Jesus -[1299.08 --> 1299.76] amen -[1299.76 --> 1300.84] and amen -[1300.84 --> 1301.12] right -[1301.12 --> 1302.16] Jesus confirms -[1302.16 --> 1303.10] that when he says -[1303.10 --> 1303.60] to the thief -[1303.60 --> 1304.24] on the cross -[1304.24 --> 1305.68] today you will be -[1305.68 --> 1306.16] with me -[1306.16 --> 1307.04] in paradise -[1307.04 --> 1307.66] Paul -[1307.66 --> 1308.70] the apostle Paul -[1308.70 --> 1309.52] affirms that -[1309.52 --> 1310.04] when he says -[1310.04 --> 1310.58] to die -[1310.58 --> 1311.24] is gain -[1311.24 --> 1311.92] to depart -[1311.92 --> 1312.72] and be -[1312.72 --> 1314.08] with Christ -[1314.08 --> 1314.94] and I cling -[1314.94 --> 1315.70] to that truth -[1315.70 --> 1316.30] of the gospel -[1316.30 --> 1316.88] for life -[1316.88 --> 1317.62] and I cling -[1317.62 --> 1318.42] to that truth -[1318.42 --> 1319.06] of the gospel -[1319.06 --> 1319.88] in the face -[1319.88 --> 1320.48] of death -[1320.48 --> 1321.36] but that -[1321.36 --> 1322.06] hope -[1322.06 --> 1323.32] is only true -[1323.32 --> 1324.86] because of a greater hope -[1324.86 --> 1327.08] that isn't just heaven -[1327.08 --> 1328.18] but is a person -[1328.18 --> 1329.48] a hope -[1329.48 --> 1330.34] who is a person -[1330.34 --> 1331.56] who is a king -[1331.56 --> 1332.96] a king of whom -[1332.96 --> 1333.72] the increase -[1333.72 --> 1334.50] of his government -[1334.50 --> 1335.30] and peace -[1335.30 --> 1336.62] there will be no end -[1336.62 --> 1337.38] he will reign -[1337.38 --> 1338.62] on David's throne -[1338.62 --> 1339.86] and over his kingdom -[1339.86 --> 1340.54] establishing -[1340.54 --> 1341.84] and upholding it -[1341.84 --> 1342.44] with justice -[1342.44 --> 1343.14] and righteousness -[1343.14 --> 1344.52] from that time on -[1344.52 --> 1345.72] and forever -[1345.72 --> 1346.96] our hope -[1346.96 --> 1347.92] is a king -[1347.92 --> 1349.52] and his kingdom -[1349.52 --> 1351.90] look -[1351.90 --> 1353.78] check this out -[1353.78 --> 1355.24] in the gospel -[1355.24 --> 1355.76] of Mark -[1355.76 --> 1358.30] Jesus' first words -[1358.30 --> 1359.42] to the people -[1359.42 --> 1360.06] when he begins -[1360.06 --> 1361.10] his preaching ministry -[1361.10 --> 1362.10] is -[1362.10 --> 1363.92] the time has come -[1363.92 --> 1365.06] the kingdom -[1365.06 --> 1366.04] of God -[1366.04 --> 1367.00] has come -[1367.00 --> 1367.64] near -[1367.64 --> 1369.36] right -[1369.36 --> 1370.30] you hear it -[1370.30 --> 1370.74] right -[1370.74 --> 1372.06] Jesus has come -[1372.06 --> 1373.30] and so the kingdom -[1373.30 --> 1374.74] has come -[1374.74 --> 1375.70] and yet -[1375.70 --> 1377.74] and I love this -[1377.74 --> 1378.06] right -[1378.06 --> 1379.06] track with me -[1379.06 --> 1379.88] Jesus -[1379.88 --> 1380.94] when he teaches -[1380.94 --> 1381.68] his disciples -[1381.68 --> 1382.36] to pray -[1382.36 --> 1383.64] what does he teach them -[1383.64 --> 1384.44] right -[1384.44 --> 1385.14] he says to pray -[1385.14 --> 1385.88] like this -[1385.88 --> 1387.48] our father in heaven -[1387.48 --> 1388.74] hallowed be -[1388.74 --> 1390.06] your name -[1390.06 --> 1391.62] your -[1391.62 --> 1392.84] kingdom -[1392.84 --> 1394.02] come -[1394.02 --> 1396.04] and so what is it -[1396.04 --> 1398.42] has it already come -[1398.42 --> 1399.92] or do we need to pray -[1399.92 --> 1400.66] for its coming -[1400.66 --> 1402.42] what's the answer -[1402.42 --> 1404.36] it's both -[1404.36 --> 1406.04] it is both -[1406.04 --> 1406.70] it is -[1406.70 --> 1407.78] our hope -[1407.78 --> 1408.12] hope in -[1408.12 --> 1409.10] a person -[1409.10 --> 1410.06] and in -[1410.06 --> 1410.56] a king -[1410.56 --> 1411.18] whose kingdom -[1411.18 --> 1412.02] has come -[1412.02 --> 1413.14] and is -[1413.14 --> 1413.90] coming -[1413.90 --> 1414.84] right -[1414.84 --> 1415.54] and in these -[1415.54 --> 1417.00] in between times -[1417.00 --> 1417.94] that we know -[1417.94 --> 1418.54] that the devil -[1418.54 --> 1419.34] has been defeated -[1419.34 --> 1420.08] that sin -[1420.08 --> 1420.58] and death -[1420.58 --> 1421.36] have been overcome -[1421.36 --> 1422.64] but we are waiting -[1422.64 --> 1423.20] for them -[1423.20 --> 1424.24] to be destroyed -[1424.24 --> 1424.88] when the kingdom -[1424.88 --> 1426.04] comes in its fullness -[1426.04 --> 1427.98] this is advent -[1427.98 --> 1430.50] this is our expectation -[1430.50 --> 1432.32] and we also know -[1432.32 --> 1434.00] that the death throes -[1434.00 --> 1435.08] of a trapped animal -[1435.08 --> 1436.72] are the most dangerous -[1436.72 --> 1439.16] that's the time -[1439.16 --> 1439.82] we live in -[1439.82 --> 1442.40] now is exactly -[1442.40 --> 1443.12] the time -[1443.12 --> 1444.56] to be captivated -[1444.56 --> 1445.44] by the hope -[1445.44 --> 1446.38] of the gospel -[1446.38 --> 1447.70] now is exactly -[1447.70 --> 1448.28] the time -[1448.28 --> 1449.32] to open the eyes -[1449.32 --> 1449.84] of our heart -[1449.84 --> 1450.48] to the kingdom -[1450.48 --> 1451.54] come and the kingdom -[1451.54 --> 1452.04] coming -[1452.04 --> 1454.50] the apostle Peter -[1454.50 --> 1456.10] writes to a group -[1456.10 --> 1456.58] of Christians -[1456.58 --> 1457.26] who are facing -[1457.26 --> 1458.64] trial and hardship -[1458.64 --> 1459.42] for their faith -[1459.42 --> 1460.84] and he reminds them -[1460.84 --> 1463.06] you have been born again -[1463.06 --> 1465.18] to a living hope -[1465.18 --> 1466.64] through the resurrection -[1466.64 --> 1467.74] of Jesus -[1467.74 --> 1468.86] from the dead -[1468.86 --> 1471.16] your hope -[1471.16 --> 1472.04] is fixed -[1472.04 --> 1473.18] and sure -[1473.18 --> 1474.26] because it is -[1474.26 --> 1475.12] in a person -[1475.12 --> 1476.00] a man -[1476.00 --> 1477.10] named Jesus -[1477.10 --> 1478.96] who is God -[1478.96 --> 1480.18] your hope -[1480.18 --> 1480.82] is guaranteed -[1480.82 --> 1481.78] because the kingdom -[1481.78 --> 1482.64] has come -[1482.64 --> 1484.38] and is coming -[1484.38 --> 1487.18] Jesus will make -[1487.18 --> 1488.16] all things -[1488.16 --> 1488.92] new -[1488.92 --> 1491.02] that is -[1491.02 --> 1491.66] hope's -[1491.66 --> 1492.36] promise -[1492.36 --> 1494.12] and with God -[1494.12 --> 1495.84] it's a sure thing -[1495.84 --> 1498.18] this Advent -[1498.18 --> 1499.18] perhaps more than -[1499.18 --> 1500.24] any other Advent -[1500.24 --> 1501.30] in recent history -[1501.30 --> 1502.64] we all need hope -[1502.64 --> 1504.12] and you have -[1504.12 --> 1505.74] a living hope -[1505.74 --> 1506.84] and so go -[1506.84 --> 1507.62] and be -[1507.62 --> 1509.08] a living hope -[1509.08 --> 1510.62] fill your language -[1510.62 --> 1511.88] and conversations -[1511.88 --> 1512.64] with hope -[1512.64 --> 1513.72] not complaining -[1513.72 --> 1514.46] right -[1514.46 --> 1515.46] live with hope -[1515.46 --> 1516.38] work with hope -[1516.38 --> 1518.00] play with hope -[1518.00 --> 1519.12] that this current -[1519.12 --> 1519.68] reality -[1519.68 --> 1520.52] isn't the end -[1520.52 --> 1521.16] of the story -[1521.16 --> 1523.20] we are -[1523.20 --> 1524.42] irreducibly -[1524.42 --> 1524.92] hope -[1524.92 --> 1525.86] based -[1525.86 --> 1527.04] creatures -[1527.04 --> 1528.40] and what we believe -[1528.40 --> 1529.02] about the future -[1529.02 --> 1530.38] directly controls -[1530.38 --> 1532.02] how we experience -[1532.02 --> 1532.58] the present -[1532.58 --> 1534.16] I for one -[1534.16 --> 1535.82] will have -[1535.82 --> 1536.34] hope -[1536.34 --> 1538.06] I for one -[1538.06 --> 1539.00] will not be -[1539.00 --> 1539.76] afraid -[1539.76 --> 1541.98] will you join me -[1541.98 --> 1543.84] amen -[1543.84 --> 1545.54] let's pray together -[1545.54 --> 1551.32] Lord Jesus -[1551.32 --> 1552.88] fill us -[1552.88 --> 1553.48] with -[1553.48 --> 1554.46] your -[1554.46 --> 1555.56] hope -[1555.56 --> 1557.44] captivate -[1557.44 --> 1558.20] our hearts -[1558.20 --> 1559.06] affections -[1559.06 --> 1559.70] this morning -[1559.70 --> 1560.86] with who you -[1560.86 --> 1561.38] are -[1561.38 --> 1563.40] allow us -[1563.40 --> 1563.98] to see -[1563.98 --> 1564.74] your face -[1564.74 --> 1565.46] to hear -[1565.46 --> 1566.22] your voice -[1566.22 --> 1566.96] in your word -[1566.96 --> 1567.94] allow us -[1567.94 --> 1569.54] to be open -[1569.54 --> 1570.64] to your spirits -[1570.64 --> 1571.18] leading -[1571.18 --> 1571.88] and guiding -[1571.88 --> 1572.62] and directing -[1572.62 --> 1573.66] that we may -[1573.66 --> 1574.78] reveal you -[1574.78 --> 1576.04] to the world -[1576.04 --> 1579.18] fill us -[1579.18 --> 1581.28] with hope -[1581.28 --> 1582.54] I pray -[1582.54 --> 1585.62] that we might -[1585.62 --> 1586.38] be a people -[1586.38 --> 1587.80] filled -[1587.80 --> 1589.02] with contagious -[1589.02 --> 1590.46] hope -[1590.46 --> 1591.76] and love -[1591.76 --> 1593.38] that whoever -[1593.38 --> 1594.26] sees us -[1594.26 --> 1595.48] sees you -[1595.48 --> 1597.68] that as we go -[1597.68 --> 1598.32] into work -[1598.32 --> 1599.04] or school -[1599.04 --> 1599.78] or play -[1599.78 --> 1600.88] or whatever it is -[1600.88 --> 1601.44] that we do -[1601.44 --> 1602.12] in these next -[1602.12 --> 1602.48] days -[1602.48 --> 1604.42] may it be -[1604.42 --> 1605.30] that someone -[1605.30 --> 1606.30] somewhere -[1606.30 --> 1607.70] wonders -[1607.70 --> 1610.74] and awes -[1610.74 --> 1612.74] because you -[1612.74 --> 1613.88] are -[1613.88 --> 1615.16] with us -[1615.16 --> 1618.20] to us -[1618.20 --> 1619.68] a child -[1619.68 --> 1621.28] is born -[1621.28 --> 1622.84] to us -[1622.84 --> 1624.06] a son -[1624.06 --> 1625.24] is given -[1625.24 --> 1626.66] amen diff --git a/I Will Wait - A Faith Given (Sermon)_summary.txt b/I Will Wait - A Faith Given (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 401806164f09b20ad6c31bb0246649cec5744bf3..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/I Will Wait - A Faith Given (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,27 +0,0 @@ -• Opening up God's Word in Luke 1:26-45 -• The Annunciation of Jesus to Mary by the angel Gabriel -• A discussion on the current challenges and hardships faced by the community, including the loss of a church member, COVID cases, unemployment, and strained relationships -• The concept of faith and its ability to help individuals persevere through difficult times, even when it doesn't make sense to others -• Faith as a way of living and being in the world -• The story of Mary and Elizabeth from Luke 1 as examples of faith in the face of the impossible -• The concept of "reasons of the heart" by Pascal, referring to convictions that come from the heart rather than just reason or logic -• Christian faith as a conviction of the heart alongside reason, but ultimately transcending it -• The contrast between Mary and Elizabeth, with Mary being young and unmarried, and Elizabeth being old and part of the priestly class -• The picture of community and inclusivity in the story of Mary and Elizabeth, with Elizabeth deferring her privilege to Mary -• The main obstacle to evangelism is Christians who focus on bad news rather than good news -• Mary and Elizabeth are examples of faith because they welcome each other with humility -• Their faith is rooted in the word of God, which has power and authority -• The promises of God's word are the reason for enduring hardships and trials -• Faith is not about having enough faith to achieve a specific outcome, but about trusting in God's character -• A lie perpetuated in some Christian circles is that faith can guarantee material blessings or success. -• The importance of faith being in the right person (Jesus) rather than having a certain amount of faith -• A comparison between faith and grabbing onto a branch to prevent falling using an illustration from Tim Keller -• The definition of true faith according to the Heidelberg Catechism, including its content and wholehearted trust aspects -• Faith as a gift created by the Holy Spirit through the gospel and granted by God's free will -• Examples of people who have revealed the gift of faith in practice (Mary and Elizabeth) -• Expressing gratitude to those who have had faith in them -• Recognizing the impact of others on their life and faith -• Considering one's role as God's messenger for others -• Acknowledging the presence of Jesus as a reason from the heart -• Praising God for speaking clearly, being present, and giving the gift of faith -• Thanking those who have shown love and support in times of need \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/I Will Wait - A Faith Given (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/I Will Wait - A Faith Given (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index eae63c265681ff500e23006c541a783779534166..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/I Will Wait - A Faith Given (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,369 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 4.42] As John has prayed, we're going to spend some time opening up God's Word together. -[4.90 --> 11.14] This morning, we're going to do that in Luke 1. We're going to start at verse 26, and then we'll -[11.14 --> 18.12] read through verse 45. That will be on the screen as we go through it, but I do encourage you at -[18.12 --> 23.98] home, especially if you've got a Bible handy, to grab one, open it up, turn to Luke 1, and read -[23.98 --> 31.14] along with us. And maybe even, if you're feeling extra engaged or engaging this morning, grab a pen -[31.14 --> 35.34] and some paper, take some notes, jot down some questions, and feel free to reach out to me -[35.34 --> 39.48] throughout the week with any thoughts, ideas, or questions you might have as we go through this -[39.48 --> 41.98] together. Let's read from Luke 1. -[41.98 --> 56.28] In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged -[56.28 --> 64.14] to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary. The angel -[64.14 --> 71.18] went to her and said, Greetings, you who are highly favored. The Lord is with you. Mary was greatly -[71.18 --> 77.40] troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, -[77.80 --> 85.12] Do not be afraid, Mary. You have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, -[85.34 --> 92.56] and you are to give him the name Jesus. And he will be great and will be called Son of the Most High. -[93.10 --> 99.06] The Lord your God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of -[99.06 --> 108.24] Jacob forever. His kingdom will never end. How can this be? Mary asked the angel, since I am a virgin. -[109.36 --> 115.48] The angel answered, The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will -[115.48 --> 123.50] overshadow you. And so the Holy One to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth, -[123.50 --> 128.38] your relative, your relative, is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be -[128.38 --> 137.06] barren is in her sixth month, for nothing is impossible with God. I am the Lord's servant, -[137.44 --> 145.30] Mary said. May it be to me as you have said. Then the angel left her. And at that time, -[145.68 --> 151.24] Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zachariah's home -[151.24 --> 157.36] and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, -[157.50 --> 164.02] and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice, she exclaimed, Blessed are you among -[164.02 --> 171.20] women, and blessed is the child you will bear. But why am I so favored that the mother of my Lord -[171.20 --> 178.82] should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb -[178.82 --> 187.86] leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished. -[188.82 --> 190.12] This is the word of the Lord. -[195.60 --> 202.88] Now, as many of you watching this will know, that this was a particularly hard week in the life of -[202.88 --> 210.42] our church and in the broader community of those who we know and love. We said goodbye to a husband, -[210.74 --> 218.90] a father, a teacher, and a friend. Dave was known by so many, and he was loved by everyone who knew him. -[219.92 --> 226.16] And that was a huge part of our experience this past week, and it was a defining experience for us, -[226.30 --> 232.62] for sure. But as John has already indicated in his prayer, there's also so much more that we lift up -[232.62 --> 237.82] before the Lord. There's so much more that causes us to cry out and to wonder. There's so much more -[237.82 --> 241.10] that makes us just fall down and cry. -[243.78 --> 250.70] There's so much more that for many of us this past week was just an emotional disaster. -[252.22 --> 258.44] Add to that everything else bigger than us going on, right? COVID cases continue to climb. -[258.44 --> 265.28] We have new diagnoses of COVID in our community as we prayed. Families are strained, and relationships -[265.28 --> 271.28] are cracking under the weight of everything that's going on. Unemployment continues to sit at around -[271.28 --> 278.24] 8.5 percent, and that's down from a record high just a few months ago. Youth unemployment still sits -[278.24 --> 287.82] at 20 percent, plus whatever you've got going on personally. It's so hard right now. And yet, -[288.02 --> 297.86] by the grace of God, as I've been walking and talking and connecting with so many people over -[297.86 --> 306.94] these past couple weeks of my starting here, so many of you just seem to be buoyed in the midst of all of -[306.94 --> 315.44] this, right? You continue to be encouraged, and you continue to be encouraging. Somehow, you are so much -[315.44 --> 322.16] more than your struggle or hardship. And now, don't get me wrong, all right? I want to be really clear -[322.16 --> 328.76] here. I'm not saying that we walk above the fray, right? Some of us are living in it day by day, and -[328.76 --> 335.12] really that's all we can do is go day by day, moment by moment. Some of us have been in the stuff of this -[335.12 --> 342.66] chaos and life for weeks and months and years, even before this global pandemic, right? I'm not saying -[342.66 --> 349.08] that life has been easy or that life should be easy. I'm not saying that we pretend that life is easy. -[350.22 --> 357.72] What I'm saying is that there's something in you, there's something about you and available to you -[357.72 --> 364.50] that makes you able to push through, that makes you able to stand, that makes you able to endure -[364.50 --> 378.32] and persevere. And somehow, often, that thing that makes you able to stand doesn't make sense. -[378.86 --> 385.14] It doesn't make sense to the people around you who don't know what it is, the people who don't have it, -[385.14 --> 390.88] who don't understand it, but when they see it in you and when they see it active in your life, -[390.98 --> 396.98] they want something of it or something like it. Sometimes you can't put that into words, right? -[397.10 --> 404.78] Even when you try. Sometimes it doesn't make sense to you, and yet there it is, spurring you along, -[405.16 --> 410.58] holding you up, whispering to your heart words of encouragement and hope. -[410.58 --> 418.56] Do you know what I'm talking about? Have you figured out what I'm referring to? -[420.36 --> 428.06] I'm talking about faith, right? As Christians, we have faith. Faith in God, faith in Jesus, -[428.28 --> 434.72] faith in His plan, faith in His rule, faith in His word, faith in His power. As Christians, -[434.72 --> 443.94] you have a gift, a way of seeing and being in the world that isn't of this world but is so for this -[443.94 --> 451.26] world that He came into it to save it for Himself. That's what I want us to talk about this morning, -[452.34 --> 460.66] right? The nature and the gift of faith for us as Christians. And to do that, we're going to use -[460.66 --> 470.06] this amazing story about two women from Luke 1, Mary and Elizabeth. These two women are examples of -[470.06 --> 478.00] faith in the face of the impossible, right? Not just in the face of the unlikely, not just in the face of -[478.00 --> 484.18] the improbable, but in the face of the impossible, right? And what we begin to see is that faith is more -[484.18 --> 491.34] than a set of propositions we assent to, but faith is a way of living and being in the world that is -[491.34 --> 499.02] full of conviction and purpose and power and confidence in God, even when it doesn't necessarily -[499.02 --> 510.14] make sense. There's a 17th century French mathematician and scientist and philosopher by the -[510.14 --> 517.48] name of Pascal. And Pascal, in his famous collection of thoughts, it's really the magnum opus of his -[517.48 --> 526.48] work and life as he collected these sayings over the course of that life, he has a phrase that just rings -[526.48 --> 533.20] true to me in this moment and for this. And he talks about, in his thoughts, reasons of the heart. -[533.20 --> 540.30] Right? It comes out of his, uh, pensies number 277, if you want to look it up. It says, -[540.68 --> 548.00] the heart has its reasons which reason does not understand. The heart has its reasons which reason -[548.00 --> 554.54] does not understand. And by reasons from the heart, what he means is, and this is from 282, -[554.54 --> 563.90] thought 282, we know the truth not only by reason but also by the heart. Right? Reasons from the heart -[563.90 --> 570.32] are not irrational feelings nor are they simply logical propositions. Instead, reasons from the heart -[570.32 --> 578.04] not only give some light to the mind but are also existentially comforting and also satisfying -[578.04 --> 587.52] to our souls. A reason from the heart affects and changes attitudes and actions. And when I think of -[587.52 --> 594.84] Christian faith, I think of it in that sort of manner. Right? Not just the faith, kind of referring -[594.84 --> 601.32] to a set of ideas or traditions that are handed down, although that's part of it and that's what makes -[601.32 --> 608.82] up some parts and informs our understanding of faith, but it's also a conviction of the heart. -[609.14 --> 615.08] Right? Faith isn't irrational or faith isn't a suspension of the critical faculties, but faith is -[615.08 --> 621.50] alongside of reason and informed by reason and in many ways undergirded by reason, but ultimately, -[622.10 --> 624.58] faith transcends reason. -[624.58 --> 632.90] faith transcends reason. The rationality of God, the creator of the world, coming into the world by -[632.90 --> 641.90] being born as a baby to an unwed teenage girl doesn't make sense. It's not rational. And yet, -[641.90 --> 651.56] in the drama of redemption, it's the only thing that does make sense. And Mary and Elizabeth help us see -[651.56 --> 660.52] that. Now, the first reason that I love Mary and Elizabeth as an example of faith is because of the -[660.52 --> 669.56] contrast that exists between who they are. Now, Mary is young, probably just a teenager. She's unmarried. -[670.32 --> 678.92] She's effectively a little girl. She lives in Nazareth, which has a reputation for being that town. -[678.92 --> 686.92] Now, everywhere you live around the world, there's always one of those towns or cities that you think -[686.92 --> 692.26] of as that place, right, where the people are just a little bit strange. They're a little bit outside. -[692.38 --> 697.60] I haven't learned what that is yet here for us in Langley, but I'm sure there is one, and I'm sure -[697.60 --> 705.08] you're thinking it right now. Nazareth is that town, right? Has anything good ever come from Nazareth? -[705.08 --> 713.72] Contrast Mary from Nazareth with Elizabeth, who is old, well beyond childbearing years, we read. -[714.68 --> 722.28] And she is the wife of a prominent priest, right? Both her and Zachariah, her husband, are descendants of -[722.28 --> 731.42] Aaron, right, giving them a strong lineage and a prominent place in society. Luke 1, before what we -[731.42 --> 737.40] read, actually tells us that both her and Zachariah are, quote, upright in the sight of God, observing -[737.40 --> 741.28] all the Lord's commandments and regulations blamelessly. -[744.22 --> 752.70] She lives in the hill country of Judea, which is a kind of way of saying in the area around Jerusalem, -[753.42 --> 760.36] right? Maybe she even lives in the priestly city of Hebron. Point is, she is close to the religious -[760.36 --> 766.54] and political center of it all. The contrast between these two women can't be more stark, -[767.14 --> 778.00] and yet they are each a picture of faith in the moment. Mary trusts God's word and submits herself -[778.00 --> 785.72] to it. She says, may it be to me as you have said. And Elizabeth, and catch this, Elizabeth submits -[785.72 --> 793.84] herself to Mary's privilege over her. Don't miss the power in that inversion, right? When Elizabeth says, -[794.00 --> 801.16] blessed are you among women, but why am I so favored that the mother of my Lord should come to me? And -[801.16 --> 810.22] then the baby in her leaps for joy at the relation to the just-conceived Jesus. Now, in these two women, -[810.22 --> 818.22] there is a picture of community, a picture, I think, of the church, right? Inclusive of all God's chosen -[818.22 --> 826.46] children, from the single, outcast, probably poor mom-to-be, to the matriarch of a community deferring her privilege -[826.46 --> 840.58] to this young girl. Faith looks like an inclusive community full of humility, and God uses both of -[840.58 --> 851.32] these women. Latin American Bible scholar and teacher, Justo Gonzalez, holds up Elizabeth as an example of -[851.32 --> 858.82] the faithfulness to God's mission, because when she comes face to face with a marginalized, pregnant, -[859.24 --> 867.30] young, unwed woman, she recognizes in her God at work. And instead of judgment, instead of moral -[867.30 --> 872.26] posturing, instead of virtue signaling, which she could have done because she is morally blameless and -[872.26 --> 879.26] part of the priestly class, instead of all that, she rejoices in humility, and she welcomes this mother-to-be. -[881.32 --> 887.08] Now, if that's not a picture of faith in the church, I don't know what is, and it comes from these two -[887.08 --> 895.70] women. Now, Gonzalez will actually take this idea further and says that in the world today, one of the -[895.70 --> 904.18] main obstacles to evangelism, to talking about Jesus and sharing the gospel and increasing the number of -[904.18 --> 909.94] those who believe, one of the main obstacles to evangelism in the world, Gonzalez says, is Christians. -[909.94 --> 918.40] Christians, who instead of announcing good news of grace and salvation, focus on the bad news of -[918.40 --> 927.72] condemnation and eternal damnation, which is perhaps what James means when he says in chapter 1, verse 20 of -[927.72 --> 934.08] his little letter, the wrath of God does not produce, or the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness -[934.08 --> 944.64] of God. And Elizabeth paints for us a different picture of what could be. And maybe even, as we pull out from that, -[944.96 --> 951.58] mothers generally give us a good picture of what faith and humility could be. -[953.20 --> 959.62] God seems to think that that's true, because there's a bunch of times throughout Scripture that he likens his love -[959.62 --> 963.28] and his action in the world to that of a mother for her children. -[966.30 --> 971.92] Maybe as you hear that, what you're thinking is that after the service today, you need to talk to your mom, -[972.94 --> 978.64] and you need to thank her for the ways that she revealed God to you. Maybe you need to turn to her -[978.64 --> 984.78] right now and just say, I love you. But what we see in Mary and Elizabeth, what we see in Elizabeth -[984.78 --> 994.18] welcoming Mary is a picture for us of faith given. The second reason that I love Mary and Elizabeth as -[994.18 --> 1002.40] examples of faith is because of where they are ultimately putting their faith. Notice in verse 37, -[1002.52 --> 1008.96] right, we read, for nothing is impossible with God. Now, if you have another translation of the Bible, -[1008.96 --> 1016.20] it might say something like, no word of God will ever fail in that moment. And it's because it's a bit -[1016.20 --> 1021.58] of a complicated sentence in the original Greek. The way that I would translate that more literally -[1021.58 --> 1030.94] is to say, for nothing will be impossible from God's every word. Right, they're rooting their faith -[1030.94 --> 1038.20] in the very words of God himself. Right, and the word of God here given to us in the Bible, -[1038.20 --> 1044.88] and the word of God spoken at the formation of the world has the power to say to nothing and out into -[1044.88 --> 1054.06] darkness, let there be light. And there was light. God speaks and the world is created. God speaks -[1054.06 --> 1066.42] and your heart is recreated. It is the word of God that gives promise and authority and is absolutely -[1066.42 --> 1078.90] true. Mary puts her faith in the word of God, which will accomplish exactly what God sends it out for. -[1079.16 --> 1085.98] It will not return to him empty, says Isaiah. And Elizabeth does the same, and she confirms it for us -[1085.98 --> 1092.90] when she says, right, in verse 45, blessed is she who has believed what the Lord has said to her -[1092.90 --> 1098.64] will be accomplished. Again, in another translation, in a different way of translating that, it says, -[1098.92 --> 1105.02] blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her. -[1106.16 --> 1113.16] Right, the promises here are not just what the angel Gabriel speaks to Mary or has spoken to Zechariah, -[1113.26 --> 1120.16] but the entire Old Testament as it anticipates the coming of the Messiah King, the suffering servant. -[1120.16 --> 1128.02] Right, the promises that Elizabeth is resting her faith on are the same promises that God now speaks to our hearts. -[1130.08 --> 1138.00] The promises of God, the word of God, might just turn out to be the reasons of the heart -[1138.00 --> 1142.92] for why you believe what you believe, why you endure what you can endure. -[1142.92 --> 1152.30] Why, even when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, -[1153.34 --> 1158.68] we can fear no evil, for we know that God is with us. -[1159.84 --> 1164.54] Why, even when in this world, like Jesus says, we will have trouble, we can take heart, -[1164.90 --> 1169.18] we can be strong and courageous because Jesus has overcome the world. -[1169.18 --> 1173.46] Why, even though we may have suffered for a little time, -[1174.10 --> 1180.88] we can persevere because we're born again into a living hope. -[1180.88 --> 1184.88] The promise of God's word. -[1185.78 --> 1190.12] The promise of God's word that spoke all creation into being, -[1190.18 --> 1194.32] the promise of God's word which takes your heart dead in sin -[1194.32 --> 1201.16] and breathes new life into it and transforms you now into the image of his son, Jesus Christ, -[1201.22 --> 1204.36] as he has won for us the victory over sin and death. -[1204.36 --> 1209.06] The promise of God's word applied to you as a gift in the work of the Holy Spirit -[1209.06 --> 1213.50] for Jesus who lived the life I should have lived and died the death that I deserve -[1213.50 --> 1217.86] has called me his own, has united me to the Father -[1217.86 --> 1222.86] that I may be a child of God and a co-heir with Christ. -[1223.92 --> 1229.68] The promise of God in his word applied by the Holy Spirit -[1229.68 --> 1236.12] is the reason of the heart for why I endure, for why you endure. -[1238.90 --> 1248.20] There is a lie that has been perpetuated in certain Christian circles and traditions -[1248.20 --> 1252.82] that says, if you have enough faith, you will be healed. -[1253.34 --> 1257.50] If you have enough faith, God will bless you with material blessing. -[1257.50 --> 1262.56] That if you have enough faith, you will get everything that you want -[1262.56 --> 1266.84] and all your heart's desire will be yours if you just claim it by faith. -[1269.66 --> 1274.28] That is a lie of the devil. -[1278.32 --> 1282.50] Faith is ultimately not about how much you have, -[1282.50 --> 1286.90] but it's about who it is in. -[1289.60 --> 1294.00] There's a story in Luke 17 where the disciples come to Jesus -[1294.00 --> 1296.88] and they say, Lord, increase our faith. -[1298.34 --> 1300.98] And Jesus turns to them, and do you remember what he says? -[1301.14 --> 1304.64] He says, if you had faith the size of a mustard seed, -[1304.84 --> 1306.44] you could say to this small bear tree, -[1306.68 --> 1309.24] be pulled up by its roots and be planted in the sea, -[1309.24 --> 1310.58] and it would obey you. -[1311.62 --> 1314.32] Now, I don't know if you've ever seen a mustard seed, -[1315.28 --> 1319.26] but maybe go to your pepper shaker -[1319.26 --> 1322.42] and pour out some pepper into your hand. -[1324.00 --> 1328.40] One grain of ground pepper -[1328.40 --> 1331.52] is the size of a mustard seed. -[1331.52 --> 1336.44] You see, it's not ultimately about how much faith you have, -[1336.56 --> 1339.02] it's about who your faith is in. -[1340.14 --> 1342.30] It's not even about the content of your faith, -[1342.36 --> 1345.16] so much as it is about the object of your faith. -[1348.08 --> 1351.82] There's an illustration that's used by Tim Keller. -[1352.70 --> 1356.22] He says, if you are falling down the face of a cliff -[1356.22 --> 1360.20] and the only thing jutting out from that faith is a branch, -[1360.58 --> 1363.00] an old tree that has somehow found root -[1363.00 --> 1365.30] and grabbed itself on the side of this cliff faith, -[1365.38 --> 1366.18] and you are falling, -[1366.42 --> 1368.88] and the only way to save yourself from falling -[1368.88 --> 1370.32] is to grab onto that branch, -[1370.46 --> 1373.46] it doesn't matter how much faith you have in the branch. -[1374.50 --> 1375.74] What matters is the branch. -[1377.48 --> 1380.22] So it is with us as Christians. -[1381.40 --> 1383.46] It doesn't matter how much faith we have, -[1383.46 --> 1386.00] it matters who our faith is in. -[1386.32 --> 1388.54] That's why we call faith a gift, -[1388.60 --> 1391.94] because it comes from the one in whom our faith is. -[1392.68 --> 1396.34] That's why we can read, right, in Timothy, -[1396.50 --> 1397.98] that when we are faithless, -[1398.10 --> 1400.98] he is faithful because he cannot disown himself. -[1401.32 --> 1402.74] That is the promise of faith. -[1403.00 --> 1404.48] That is the promise of God's Word. -[1405.94 --> 1408.58] That Jesus holds you fast. -[1409.64 --> 1412.96] That Jesus carries you through. -[1413.46 --> 1419.06] That Jesus will make you persevere. -[1421.32 --> 1423.64] In the Reformed Church, -[1423.80 --> 1426.86] we call ourselves a confessional church. -[1427.66 --> 1428.94] And what we mean by that -[1428.94 --> 1431.28] is we have a certain number of documents -[1431.28 --> 1433.96] that we hold out as accurate -[1433.96 --> 1437.12] and succinct summaries of the Christian faith. -[1437.12 --> 1440.78] And one of those that has emerged to the fore for us -[1440.78 --> 1443.92] as part of our binding and confessional identity -[1443.92 --> 1445.68] is the Heidelberg Catechism. -[1446.68 --> 1449.78] Question and answer 21 of the Heidelberg Catechism asks, -[1450.04 --> 1452.04] what is true faith? -[1452.08 --> 1453.98] And it gives this beautiful answer. -[1455.06 --> 1455.44] It says, -[1455.58 --> 1458.58] true faith is not only a sure knowledge -[1458.58 --> 1460.44] by which I hold as true -[1460.44 --> 1462.74] all that God has revealed to us in Scripture. -[1462.74 --> 1465.40] And so that's the part of faith that is content, -[1465.62 --> 1466.52] that is tradition, -[1466.64 --> 1467.26] that is doctrine, -[1467.38 --> 1468.20] that is teaching. -[1468.42 --> 1470.04] But the Catechism continues, -[1470.54 --> 1474.70] it is also a wholehearted trust. -[1476.08 --> 1479.04] Now that reads to me like the language of Pascal, -[1479.92 --> 1481.68] a reason of the heart. -[1481.68 --> 1485.44] It is also a reason of the heart, -[1485.80 --> 1488.98] which the Holy Spirit creates in me by the gospel, -[1489.38 --> 1491.68] that God has freely granted, -[1491.82 --> 1492.66] not only others, -[1492.78 --> 1495.36] but to me also forgiveness of sins, -[1495.54 --> 1496.36] eternal righteousness, -[1496.68 --> 1497.46] and salvation. -[1497.84 --> 1499.84] And then the Catechism ends in saying, -[1500.32 --> 1503.44] these are gifts of sheer grace, -[1503.88 --> 1507.48] granted solely by Christ's merit. -[1507.48 --> 1511.70] Faith is a gift. -[1513.30 --> 1514.90] Belief in the gospel -[1514.90 --> 1517.02] and the strength to endure -[1517.02 --> 1520.10] is a gift of God. -[1520.94 --> 1524.56] Mary and Elizabeth show us -[1524.56 --> 1527.64] that gift in practice. -[1529.94 --> 1532.14] There are so many people in your lives -[1532.14 --> 1534.92] who have revealed the gift of faith, -[1534.92 --> 1537.80] who have spoken and lived -[1537.80 --> 1539.44] and been present in times -[1539.44 --> 1541.68] and situations and circumstances -[1541.68 --> 1543.22] where you would have, -[1543.36 --> 1544.06] on your own, -[1544.22 --> 1544.82] fallen apart. -[1545.88 --> 1547.72] But they have been -[1547.72 --> 1551.84] part of your faith story. -[1553.10 --> 1554.40] So as we go today, -[1554.54 --> 1557.60] as we wait for the coming of our Lord Jesus -[1557.60 --> 1558.72] in this Christmas season, -[1559.06 --> 1560.72] I want to leave you with this. -[1562.76 --> 1564.22] Think about those people. -[1564.92 --> 1566.12] Think about those people -[1566.12 --> 1567.22] who have been Mary and Elizabeth -[1567.22 --> 1569.06] to you in your life, -[1569.12 --> 1570.58] who have led you -[1570.58 --> 1572.62] and revealed faith to you. -[1573.26 --> 1574.24] And thank God for them. -[1575.16 --> 1575.64] And maybe, -[1575.86 --> 1576.56] if you have the courage, -[1576.68 --> 1578.14] thank them for them. -[1579.20 --> 1579.72] Text them. -[1580.22 --> 1580.70] Call them. -[1581.18 --> 1581.92] Connect with them. -[1582.62 --> 1582.94] And say, -[1583.06 --> 1586.26] thank you for revealing faith to me. -[1586.58 --> 1588.46] Thank you for having faith in me -[1588.46 --> 1589.98] when I had none in myself. -[1590.18 --> 1593.18] Thank you for revealing Jesus to me -[1593.18 --> 1595.68] when I was in the dark night of the soul, -[1595.98 --> 1597.84] when I was in the valley of the shadow. -[1597.98 --> 1599.94] Thank you for being a reason -[1599.94 --> 1601.82] from the heart. -[1602.94 --> 1604.16] And then as you go -[1604.16 --> 1605.52] and as you think about those people, -[1605.64 --> 1606.40] ask yourselves, -[1606.70 --> 1608.66] for whom are you -[1608.66 --> 1612.06] that reason from the heart? -[1613.38 --> 1614.52] Who are you impacting -[1614.52 --> 1616.44] with the life of faith? -[1616.44 --> 1620.90] And who will you be God's messenger for? -[1622.60 --> 1624.64] Because as we go together in community, -[1624.78 --> 1626.82] even though we are distant and apart, -[1626.92 --> 1628.94] even though we can't sit in proximity -[1628.94 --> 1630.10] in the way that we like, -[1630.38 --> 1631.88] even though we can't hug each other -[1631.88 --> 1632.54] as we would want -[1632.54 --> 1633.46] or share a meal -[1633.46 --> 1636.30] as we might so deeply desire, -[1636.68 --> 1638.72] even though none of those things are true, -[1638.72 --> 1640.26] what remains true -[1640.26 --> 1643.74] is that the object of our faith -[1643.74 --> 1646.56] has overcome the world. -[1647.88 --> 1648.90] And in him, -[1649.54 --> 1651.54] we can trust. -[1652.32 --> 1654.06] He is our reason -[1654.06 --> 1655.38] from the heart. -[1656.08 --> 1656.82] Let's pray together. -[1660.42 --> 1661.44] Lord Jesus, -[1662.04 --> 1663.70] we thank you -[1663.70 --> 1666.10] for speaking so clearly -[1666.10 --> 1668.40] to us today. -[1669.06 --> 1669.82] We thank you -[1669.82 --> 1671.34] for being in us -[1671.34 --> 1672.20] and for us -[1672.20 --> 1672.98] the reason -[1672.98 --> 1674.22] from the heart. -[1675.48 --> 1676.42] We thank you -[1676.42 --> 1677.54] for the gift of faith. -[1678.78 --> 1679.26] And today, -[1679.38 --> 1679.84] in particular, -[1680.02 --> 1680.56] we thank you -[1680.56 --> 1681.24] for those people -[1681.24 --> 1682.84] who have been for us -[1682.84 --> 1684.16] a gift in faith. -[1685.04 --> 1685.60] Those people -[1685.60 --> 1686.44] who have drawn near -[1686.44 --> 1687.34] and surrounded us -[1687.34 --> 1687.90] with love -[1687.90 --> 1689.34] when we felt alone -[1689.34 --> 1689.74] and empty. -[1689.84 --> 1690.38] For those people -[1690.38 --> 1692.24] who have lifted us up -[1692.24 --> 1694.44] when we couldn't -[1694.44 --> 1695.14] carry ourselves. -[1696.10 --> 1697.92] for those -[1697.92 --> 1698.76] who have been Mary -[1698.76 --> 1699.72] and those who have been -[1699.72 --> 1701.22] Elizabeth in our lives. -[1701.72 --> 1702.74] We thank you. -[1704.06 --> 1704.52] And so, -[1704.66 --> 1705.24] may we go -[1705.24 --> 1705.76] together -[1705.76 --> 1706.64] into this week -[1706.64 --> 1707.22] to live -[1707.22 --> 1708.64] by faith. -[1710.22 --> 1711.58] That as we look back, -[1711.86 --> 1712.74] we can be assured -[1712.74 --> 1715.08] so that we may go forward -[1715.08 --> 1716.04] in confidence -[1716.04 --> 1716.76] and conviction -[1716.76 --> 1717.70] that you -[1717.70 --> 1718.78] are God alone -[1718.78 --> 1719.62] and that you, -[1720.16 --> 1720.58] Lord Jesus, -[1720.76 --> 1721.92] will never leave us -[1721.92 --> 1723.32] nor forsake us. -[1723.32 --> 1726.70] in Christ alone -[1726.70 --> 1727.28] we pray. -[1728.72 --> 1729.06] Amen. -[1729.06 --> 1729.20] Amen. -[1730.20 --> 1730.58] Amen. diff --git a/I Will Wait - A Joy Found (Sermon)_summary.txt b/I Will Wait - A Joy Found (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index da480192deea056065c7a70f9865bf6c1fa985a8..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/I Will Wait - A Joy Found (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,43 +0,0 @@ -• Reading from Isaiah 60 and reflection on its message -• Discussion of Christmas inflatables as a fleeting source of joy -• Introduction to the Christian concept of joy beyond feeling happy or jolly -• Explanation that for Christians, joy is rooted in deep satisfaction, even in difficult circumstances -• Reference to biblical passages such as Philippians 4 and 1 Thessalonians 5 -• The speaker discusses the relationship between joy and Jesus, stating that true soul satisfaction comes through knowing and being known by Him. -• Isaiah 60 is presented as a traditional Advent text with significant implications for life. -• The structure of Isaiah 60 is outlined, beginning in verse 1 with God's call to Arise and shine, as the Lord's glory rises upon His people. -• The historical context of Isaiah 60 is discussed, referencing the Assyrian and Babylonian empires' threats against Judah and Israel. -• Isaiah's message is one of hope leading to joy, emphasizing salvation not just from external enemies but also from sin and guilt. -• The promise is made that God will empower His people with new life through the Holy Spirit, allowing the light of God's glory to shine out in them. -• A city shines with beauty that is not its own, reflecting God's glory -• Darkness and emptiness contrast with a promised future from God -• Advent season highlights the darkness being overcome by light -• The Lord rises upon believers and His glory appears to them -• Christians are called to shine with God's beauty, radiating His light to others -• The speaker discusses how people's attitudes and actions during difficult times, such as a global pandemic, reveal their character. -• The story of one's life is told through their attitude, conversation, and behavior. -• The speaker references Isaiah's promise that when people live their lives with Jesus at the center, others will be drawn to them. -• Augustine is quoted as saying that humans were created for God. -• C.S. Lewis' concept of joy as an unsatisfied desire that is itself more desirable -• Christian joy vs happiness and pleasure -• The role of Jesus in Christian living and the Advent story -• God's beauty being made manifest in believers' lives -• Joy being a fundamental aspect of human existence, even in darkness -• The Westminster Shorter Catechism's definition of humanity's chief end -• Jonathan Edwards' treatise on "Religious Affections" -• Joy as a holy affection in true religion -• The nature of Christian joy and its unspeakable, supernatural quality -• Christ as the foundation of all joy and the gospel securing it for individuals -• The joy of being known by God -• Believing in Jesus without seeing him -• Receiving the end result of faith: salvation and eternal life -• Enduring trials with joy and hope -• Living a life that reveals Jesus' story through words and actions -• Being created for eternal joy, not present darkness -• Reflecting the beauty of God's glory in our lives -• Joy in times of trouble -• Singing together as a people -• Knowing Jesus' joy -• Living a life that tells the story of Jesus -• Prayer for God's guidance and truth -• Greetings and inquiry about others' well-being \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/I Will Wait - A Joy Found (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/I Will Wait - A Joy Found (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index fa4673ab9f00e8e853d9647346829b1ceecc49ab..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/I Will Wait - A Joy Found (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,929 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.38] This morning our scripture reading is going to be from Isaiah 60. -[6.88 --> 12.80] We're going to read the first five verses of Isaiah 60, just the first five verses. -[13.30 --> 17.36] If you have a Bible handy in front of you or with you or on your phone or whatever the -[17.36 --> 24.08] case may be, I encourage you to open that up, turn it on, and read along with Isaiah 60. -[25.40 --> 26.64] Hear the word of the Lord. -[26.64 --> 34.54] Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. -[34.94 --> 40.04] See, darkness covers the earth, and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the Lord -[40.04 --> 44.22] rises upon you, and his glory appears over you. -[45.86 --> 50.40] Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn. -[51.60 --> 54.64] Lift up your eyes and look about you. -[54.64 --> 57.26] All assemble and come to you. -[57.36 --> 61.28] Your sons come from afar, and your daughters are carried on the arm. -[62.68 --> 65.16] Then you will look and be radiant. -[65.90 --> 69.76] Your heart will throb and swell with joy. -[70.64 --> 71.84] This is the word of the Lord. -[71.84 --> 82.04] As we come to God's word, I thought I would begin this morning by throwing out the rules -[82.04 --> 90.04] of what it means to be a new pastor in a new community, and to start with something incredibly -[90.04 --> 91.10] controversial. -[91.10 --> 98.72] I want to start this morning and talk to you about Christmas inflatables. -[101.26 --> 106.60] Now, a number of years ago, when Christmas inflatables were just becoming a thing, they seem to have -[106.60 --> 111.64] proliferated everywhere now, but when they were just becoming a thing, I remember in the weeks -[111.64 --> 116.94] leading up to Christmas, I was walking through one of those big box stores with my family, -[116.94 --> 124.06] and in the distance, I saw a kid come around the corner, and he looked up at the Christmas display, -[124.42 --> 125.30] and he shouted, -[125.76 --> 126.24] Mom! -[126.80 --> 128.84] They have inflatables! -[128.84 --> 138.20] And he ran straight over, and he just took them all in, glorying in the awe of a 10-foot-tall -[138.20 --> 144.92] Santa standing beneath what would otherwise be a very dangerous thing to do, a giant reindeer, -[146.02 --> 150.60] and just marveling and taking joy in that moment. -[150.60 --> 157.84] Now, I get that Christmas inflatables may be divisive, and you probably have an opinion on them, -[157.90 --> 162.86] but in that moment, that kid experienced pure joy. -[164.42 --> 169.04] Now, fast forward a few years, and you see Christmas inflatables everywhere. -[170.10 --> 171.28] It's almost old hat. -[172.34 --> 177.34] I haven't seen someone get as excited as that kid did in that moment for quite some time, -[177.34 --> 182.42] even when you go to the places that are absolutely over the top, and there's a few just around the corner from here. -[184.20 --> 187.62] It just is what it is. -[188.98 --> 194.42] I suspect for that kid, and for most of us, the joy of Christmas inflatables -[194.42 --> 197.14] is a joy that fades, -[198.14 --> 201.74] that eventually washes away. -[201.74 --> 208.14] But on this third Sunday of Advent, I want us to think about a greater joy -[208.14 --> 210.86] that all those lesser joys point to, -[211.10 --> 214.24] a greater joy that will not spoil or fade. -[215.74 --> 218.32] I want us to talk about what it means to have joy -[218.32 --> 220.12] as Christians, -[220.86 --> 222.52] especially in this season -[222.52 --> 225.28] of darkness and trial. -[226.06 --> 228.18] Now, here's what I want to suggest to you this morning, -[228.18 --> 231.86] and I hope we can follow this line of thought through. -[232.62 --> 233.70] For the Christian, -[233.88 --> 235.90] that is for you and me who believe -[235.90 --> 237.02] by grace through faith, -[237.16 --> 237.98] for the Christian, -[238.56 --> 240.58] joy is so much more -[240.58 --> 241.90] than feeling happy -[241.90 --> 244.74] or jolly or however it is you want to describe it. -[245.00 --> 245.78] For the Christian, -[246.20 --> 248.14] joy, and what I want to suggest to you, -[248.26 --> 249.82] is best understood -[249.82 --> 251.96] as deep down -[251.96 --> 254.06] in the depths of your being -[254.06 --> 255.36] satisfaction. -[255.36 --> 255.80] Right? -[257.88 --> 260.04] Even, actually, as we see it in Scripture, -[260.24 --> 262.36] right, in those famous sort of rejoicing passages -[262.36 --> 263.60] of Philippians 4 -[263.60 --> 265.08] or 1 Thessalonians 5, -[265.34 --> 267.38] right, where we are told to rejoice always. -[268.50 --> 268.78] Right? -[268.82 --> 270.02] Even that phrase -[270.02 --> 271.62] or the word there for rejoice -[271.62 --> 274.28] can mean sort of calmly happy -[274.28 --> 275.44] or serene. -[276.48 --> 276.74] Right? -[276.76 --> 278.80] The kind of joy that I'm talking about -[278.80 --> 280.70] is one that you may be familiar with. -[281.36 --> 281.78] Right? -[281.84 --> 282.32] It's the -[282.32 --> 284.96] when sorrows like sea billows roll, -[284.96 --> 285.72] it's the -[285.72 --> 287.24] though Satan should buffet, -[287.38 --> 288.88] though trials should come, -[289.42 --> 291.32] it is well -[291.32 --> 293.24] with my soul. -[293.80 --> 295.34] That's the kind of joy -[295.34 --> 297.28] that I'm talking about. -[297.54 --> 297.70] Right? -[297.82 --> 299.54] Joy is more than peace, -[299.60 --> 301.20] though that's inclusive of it, -[301.24 --> 302.18] and we will actually return -[302.18 --> 303.22] to the theme of peace -[303.22 --> 304.48] in our worship together -[304.48 --> 305.34] next week. -[305.48 --> 307.24] But joy is contentment, -[307.36 --> 308.78] it is satisfaction. -[309.40 --> 310.50] Joy for the Christian -[310.50 --> 310.98] is an -[310.98 --> 312.04] it is well -[312.04 --> 313.02] rejoicing. -[313.02 --> 316.32] And then here's the bigger point. -[317.60 --> 319.26] Joy comes fully -[319.26 --> 321.76] or joy only comes -[321.76 --> 323.84] in relation to Jesus. -[323.84 --> 326.18] That kind of deep soul satisfaction -[326.18 --> 327.86] comes in relation -[327.86 --> 329.14] to Jesus. -[329.56 --> 329.84] Right? -[329.96 --> 330.06] To -[330.06 --> 330.60] to -[330.60 --> 333.68] Jesus in being known -[333.68 --> 335.04] and knowing -[335.04 --> 335.86] him. -[336.82 --> 337.56] Now you can see this -[337.56 --> 338.34] all over the Bible, -[338.34 --> 339.98] but we're going to see it -[339.98 --> 340.84] specifically here -[340.84 --> 342.52] from Isaiah 60. -[342.60 --> 343.22] This is a pretty -[343.22 --> 345.00] traditional Advent text -[345.00 --> 346.54] with anything -[346.54 --> 347.70] but boring -[347.70 --> 348.46] implications -[348.46 --> 349.70] for your life -[349.70 --> 350.40] and my life -[350.40 --> 350.74] together. -[351.50 --> 352.10] Let me outline -[352.10 --> 352.76] the structure -[352.76 --> 354.06] of the -[354.06 --> 354.74] arguments -[354.74 --> 355.50] and then -[355.50 --> 356.64] we'll get into it. -[357.34 --> 358.24] Text begins -[358.24 --> 358.98] in verse 1 -[358.98 --> 359.56] saying, -[359.70 --> 360.24] Arise, -[360.52 --> 360.92] shine, -[361.06 --> 361.72] for your light -[361.72 --> 362.34] has come -[362.34 --> 363.44] and the glory -[363.44 --> 364.32] of the Lord -[364.32 --> 365.50] rises upon you. -[365.50 --> 367.84] Now the prophet Isaiah -[367.84 --> 369.40] is speaking these words -[369.40 --> 370.30] to Israel -[370.30 --> 371.20] and to Judah -[371.20 --> 372.54] very likely -[372.54 --> 373.86] he speaks them -[373.86 --> 375.40] as from his position -[375.40 --> 376.28] as advisor -[376.28 --> 377.12] to the king -[377.12 --> 378.12] in Jerusalem. -[379.18 --> 379.70] So at this time -[379.70 --> 380.12] in history -[380.12 --> 381.14] the Assyrians -[381.14 --> 381.94] and empire -[381.94 --> 383.16] to the north -[383.16 --> 384.10] have taken -[384.10 --> 385.36] the northern parts -[385.36 --> 385.96] of Israel -[385.96 --> 386.86] and they're threatening -[386.86 --> 387.60] to come in -[387.60 --> 388.78] and attack Judah -[388.78 --> 389.46] and -[389.46 --> 391.14] distance in the future -[391.14 --> 391.92] not so distant -[391.92 --> 392.38] anymore -[392.38 --> 393.06] in the future -[393.06 --> 394.54] is the Babylonian empire -[394.54 --> 395.68] looming to -[395.68 --> 396.74] take it all -[396.74 --> 398.72] and to carry away -[398.72 --> 399.56] the Israelites -[399.56 --> 400.38] into exile. -[401.50 --> 402.18] This time -[402.18 --> 403.46] in Israel -[403.46 --> 404.38] and Judah's history -[404.38 --> 405.20] is one of -[405.20 --> 406.62] a few good kings -[406.62 --> 407.78] but lots -[407.78 --> 408.52] and lots -[408.52 --> 410.20] of bad ones. -[411.38 --> 412.00] But Isaiah -[412.00 --> 413.96] has a message -[413.96 --> 415.16] of hope -[415.16 --> 416.52] and it's hope -[416.52 --> 417.72] that leads -[417.72 --> 418.86] to joy. -[419.96 --> 420.68] Your light -[420.68 --> 421.40] has come -[421.40 --> 422.20] the Lord -[422.20 --> 422.88] rises -[422.88 --> 424.18] upon you -[424.18 --> 425.46] and he's speaking -[425.46 --> 426.18] to the people -[426.18 --> 427.18] in Jerusalem -[427.18 --> 427.96] and of Jerusalem -[427.96 --> 428.62] and Judea -[428.62 --> 429.28] a promise -[429.28 --> 430.24] of salvation -[430.24 --> 431.34] but not just -[431.34 --> 431.94] salvation -[431.94 --> 432.90] from Assyria -[432.90 --> 434.20] or from Babylon -[434.20 --> 435.76] not only salvation -[435.76 --> 436.68] even from the guilt -[436.68 --> 437.34] of sin -[437.34 --> 438.56] Isaiah's promise -[438.56 --> 439.60] is even bigger -[439.60 --> 440.22] than that -[440.22 --> 440.40] right? -[440.70 --> 441.82] God is speaking -[441.82 --> 442.56] to his people -[442.56 --> 444.06] a word of deliverance -[444.06 --> 445.14] into new life -[445.14 --> 445.68] empowered -[445.68 --> 447.18] by the Holy Spirit -[447.18 --> 448.44] in which the light -[448.44 --> 449.36] of God -[449.36 --> 450.66] his own glory -[450.66 --> 452.14] shines out -[452.14 --> 452.84] from the people -[452.84 --> 453.34] of God. -[454.92 --> 455.50] Isaiah's talking -[455.50 --> 456.22] about life -[456.22 --> 457.18] in the spirit -[457.18 --> 458.34] that reflects -[458.34 --> 459.22] the life -[459.22 --> 460.60] of God's -[460.60 --> 461.24] spirit. -[462.58 --> 463.62] Like one writer -[463.62 --> 464.40] has put it -[464.40 --> 465.90] like a city -[465.90 --> 466.40] gleaming -[466.40 --> 467.16] in the light -[467.16 --> 467.78] of a newly -[467.78 --> 468.56] risen sun -[468.56 --> 469.24] they shine -[469.24 --> 469.92] with a beauty -[469.92 --> 470.64] that is not -[470.64 --> 471.20] their own. -[471.88 --> 472.22] Right? -[472.30 --> 473.00] They shine -[473.00 --> 474.06] with a beauty -[474.06 --> 475.08] that is not -[475.08 --> 475.62] their own. -[476.82 --> 477.30] Darkness -[477.30 --> 478.48] covers the earth -[478.48 --> 479.40] a thick darkness -[479.40 --> 480.76] is over the people -[480.76 --> 481.72] that's the situation -[481.72 --> 482.66] that they find -[482.66 --> 483.18] themselves in -[483.18 --> 483.70] that's their -[483.70 --> 484.92] current reality -[484.92 --> 485.76] but God -[485.76 --> 486.36] has a promised -[486.36 --> 487.22] future for them -[487.22 --> 487.84] a future -[487.84 --> 489.06] that is emerging -[489.06 --> 490.24] in them already -[490.24 --> 491.48] in this promise -[491.48 --> 491.76] right? -[491.88 --> 492.40] A future -[492.40 --> 492.88] that we -[492.88 --> 493.38] today -[493.38 --> 494.48] as Christians -[494.48 --> 495.30] in Christmas -[495.30 --> 496.74] know all about -[496.74 --> 497.40] and a future -[497.40 --> 497.90] that we -[497.90 --> 498.82] are also -[498.82 --> 499.52] waiting -[499.52 --> 500.24] for the fullness -[500.24 --> 500.72] of. -[501.66 --> 501.76] Right? -[501.92 --> 502.26] Advent -[502.26 --> 503.20] is that -[503.20 --> 504.22] season -[504.22 --> 505.74] the darkness -[505.74 --> 506.52] is increasing -[506.52 --> 508.42] at its peak -[508.42 --> 509.22] maybe. -[510.64 --> 511.42] Sunrise this -[511.42 --> 512.08] morning was -[512.08 --> 513.04] at 8 o'clock -[513.04 --> 513.64] and it's -[513.64 --> 514.38] going to set -[514.38 --> 515.14] at just after -[515.14 --> 515.46] 4. -[516.50 --> 517.30] That's not a -[517.30 --> 518.00] whole lot of sun -[518.00 --> 518.60] even if you -[518.60 --> 519.12] can find it -[519.12 --> 519.60] and see it. -[522.28 --> 523.26] The loneliness -[523.26 --> 524.02] of our -[524.02 --> 524.76] circumstances -[524.76 --> 526.68] are exacerbated. -[527.40 --> 528.34] The emptiness -[528.34 --> 529.30] of our -[529.30 --> 530.04] longings -[530.04 --> 531.06] are palpable -[531.06 --> 532.90] and yet -[532.90 --> 535.18] and yet -[535.18 --> 536.24] the Lord -[536.24 --> 537.58] rises upon -[537.58 --> 538.20] you and -[538.20 --> 538.98] His glory -[538.98 --> 539.64] appears -[539.64 --> 540.38] over you -[540.38 --> 541.10] says Isaiah. -[541.46 --> 542.12] They shine -[542.12 --> 542.82] with a beauty -[542.82 --> 543.66] not their own -[543.66 --> 544.40] track that -[544.40 --> 544.76] but whose -[544.76 --> 545.14] beauty -[545.14 --> 545.68] is it? -[545.76 --> 546.66] Whose beauty -[546.66 --> 547.76] do you shine -[547.76 --> 548.22] with? -[548.76 --> 549.10] You shine -[549.10 --> 549.72] with God's -[549.72 --> 550.06] beauty -[550.06 --> 550.60] right? -[550.66 --> 551.22] The beauty -[551.22 --> 552.04] of the glory -[552.04 --> 552.68] of God -[552.68 --> 553.36] the word -[553.36 --> 554.00] made flesh -[554.00 --> 554.58] the lamb -[554.58 --> 555.44] who was slain -[555.44 --> 556.16] and the lion -[556.16 --> 556.76] of Judah -[556.76 --> 557.78] you shine -[557.78 --> 558.62] with the radiance -[558.62 --> 559.58] of he who -[559.58 --> 560.14] is true -[560.14 --> 560.52] light -[560.52 --> 561.06] of true -[561.06 --> 561.38] light -[561.38 --> 561.92] come from -[561.92 --> 562.34] the father -[562.34 --> 562.78] full -[562.78 --> 563.54] of grace -[563.54 --> 564.30] and truth -[564.30 --> 565.46] and people -[565.46 --> 566.50] see that -[566.50 --> 567.28] light shining -[567.28 --> 567.94] in the world -[567.94 --> 569.08] people long -[569.08 --> 569.64] for that -[569.64 --> 570.92] light radiating -[570.92 --> 571.58] out of you -[571.58 --> 572.38] people want -[572.38 --> 573.04] to shine -[573.04 --> 573.90] in the same -[573.90 --> 574.22] way -[574.22 --> 575.40] it's infectious -[575.40 --> 576.52] right? -[576.58 --> 577.14] There's something -[577.14 --> 578.06] about Christians -[578.06 --> 579.24] in the world -[579.24 --> 580.00] that should be -[580.00 --> 580.54] compelling -[580.54 --> 581.84] and winsome -[581.84 --> 582.76] right? -[582.88 --> 583.80] Even as the -[583.80 --> 584.20] darkness -[584.20 --> 585.22] rises -[585.22 --> 586.26] even when -[586.26 --> 586.70] there is a -[586.70 --> 587.76] global pandemic -[587.76 --> 588.90] even when -[588.90 --> 589.46] we can't -[589.46 --> 590.16] gather in -[590.16 --> 590.70] ways that -[590.70 --> 591.12] we want -[591.12 --> 591.32] to -[591.32 --> 592.18] even if -[592.18 --> 592.76] your Christmas -[592.76 --> 593.48] and your -[593.48 --> 593.92] New Year's -[593.92 --> 594.34] celebrations -[594.34 --> 594.76] are going -[594.76 --> 594.98] to look -[594.98 --> 595.40] like two -[595.40 --> 595.80] people -[595.80 --> 596.52] or three -[596.52 --> 596.86] people -[596.86 --> 597.34] rather than -[597.34 --> 597.72] the 10 -[597.72 --> 598.24] or 12 -[598.24 --> 598.84] or 30 -[598.84 --> 599.34] that you -[599.34 --> 599.74] would like -[599.74 --> 600.70] it to be -[600.70 --> 601.50] even in -[601.50 --> 602.16] that moment -[602.16 --> 604.62] you can -[604.62 --> 605.08] shine -[605.08 --> 608.60] I've been -[608.60 --> 609.08] saying all -[609.08 --> 609.44] along -[609.44 --> 610.20] in the midst -[610.20 --> 610.58] of this -[610.58 --> 611.50] that your -[611.50 --> 611.94] attitude -[611.94 --> 613.20] tells a -[613.20 --> 613.60] story -[613.60 --> 614.82] right? -[614.84 --> 615.18] The way -[615.18 --> 616.16] you engage -[616.16 --> 617.18] our present -[617.18 --> 618.16] situation -[618.16 --> 618.88] our current -[618.88 --> 619.40] reality -[619.40 --> 620.26] reveals -[620.26 --> 621.42] something about -[621.42 --> 622.08] you and -[622.08 --> 622.80] your heart -[622.80 --> 623.42] and your -[623.42 --> 623.90] loves -[623.90 --> 624.52] and your -[624.52 --> 624.94] joys -[624.94 --> 626.32] life -[626.32 --> 626.98] is telling -[626.98 --> 628.00] a story -[628.00 --> 628.74] your attitude -[628.74 --> 629.74] about COVID -[629.74 --> 630.56] right? -[630.66 --> 631.28] About church -[631.28 --> 631.98] about work -[631.98 --> 633.04] about parenting -[633.04 --> 633.82] or hockey -[633.82 --> 634.38] practice -[634.38 --> 635.18] or homework -[635.18 --> 636.16] all of that -[636.16 --> 637.20] tells a story -[637.20 --> 637.96] about you -[637.96 --> 639.10] and your -[639.10 --> 639.90] heart -[639.90 --> 644.02] is the story -[644.02 --> 644.64] your life -[644.64 --> 645.28] is telling -[645.28 --> 646.72] is the story -[646.72 --> 647.72] your conversation -[647.72 --> 649.36] is revealing -[649.36 --> 650.84] the compelling -[650.84 --> 652.10] story of God's -[652.10 --> 652.60] glory -[652.60 --> 655.18] or -[655.18 --> 657.28] is it -[657.28 --> 658.58] the convicting -[658.58 --> 659.66] story of our -[659.66 --> 660.68] own selfishness -[660.68 --> 663.06] nations -[663.06 --> 663.96] will come -[663.96 --> 664.88] to your light -[664.88 --> 666.04] and kings -[666.04 --> 667.28] to the brightness -[667.28 --> 668.26] of your dawn -[668.26 --> 669.42] right? -[669.48 --> 670.26] Isaiah's promise -[670.26 --> 671.14] to us -[671.14 --> 671.96] is that when you -[671.96 --> 673.20] reveal God -[673.20 --> 674.10] when you tell -[674.10 --> 675.36] his story -[675.36 --> 676.32] when you live -[676.32 --> 677.10] your life -[677.10 --> 677.74] with Jesus -[677.74 --> 678.62] at the center -[678.62 --> 679.90] people will -[679.90 --> 680.78] come to you -[680.78 --> 681.86] they will be drawn -[681.86 --> 682.74] to the beauty -[682.74 --> 683.64] that is not -[683.64 --> 684.24] your own -[684.24 --> 685.88] because our -[685.88 --> 686.44] hearts -[686.44 --> 687.68] long -[687.68 --> 688.70] for Jesus -[688.70 --> 689.86] we long -[689.86 --> 690.60] for the one -[690.60 --> 691.56] for whom -[691.56 --> 692.44] we were -[692.44 --> 693.20] created -[693.20 --> 695.66] there's a -[695.66 --> 696.70] fourth century -[696.70 --> 697.78] church father -[697.78 --> 698.24] by the name -[698.24 --> 698.86] of Augustine -[698.86 --> 700.52] and rather famously -[700.52 --> 701.70] he once said -[701.70 --> 703.02] you have created -[703.02 --> 704.22] us for yourself -[704.22 --> 704.88] oh Lord -[704.88 --> 705.84] and our hearts -[705.84 --> 706.58] are restless -[706.58 --> 708.28] until they rest -[708.28 --> 709.48] in you -[709.48 --> 711.28] C.S. Lewis -[711.28 --> 712.90] in the 20th century -[712.90 --> 714.30] just a few years ago -[714.30 --> 715.14] put it this way -[715.14 --> 715.62] he says -[715.62 --> 716.88] if we find -[716.88 --> 717.72] ourselves -[717.72 --> 719.10] with a desire -[719.10 --> 719.88] that nothing -[719.88 --> 720.86] in this world -[720.86 --> 721.70] can satisfy -[721.70 --> 723.16] the most probable -[723.16 --> 724.02] explanation -[724.02 --> 725.14] is that we were -[725.14 --> 725.96] made for another -[725.96 --> 726.40] world -[726.40 --> 727.82] and Lewis -[727.82 --> 728.74] actually will build -[728.74 --> 729.12] on that -[729.12 --> 729.98] he will expand -[729.98 --> 730.46] on that -[730.46 --> 731.06] and I don't want -[731.06 --> 731.56] to lose you -[731.56 --> 732.16] in the weeds -[732.16 --> 732.90] of an exegesis -[732.90 --> 733.66] of C.S. Lewis -[733.66 --> 734.42] that's not what -[734.42 --> 734.88] we're here for -[734.88 --> 735.56] but just one more -[735.56 --> 736.32] quote because I think -[736.32 --> 737.44] it is really helpful -[737.44 --> 738.42] for Lewis -[738.42 --> 739.84] desire and joy -[739.84 --> 741.76] are sort of -[741.76 --> 742.70] synonymous terms -[742.70 --> 744.32] and he will go on -[744.32 --> 745.58] to define joy -[745.58 --> 748.06] as an unsatisfied desire -[748.06 --> 749.10] which is itself -[749.10 --> 750.06] more desirable -[750.06 --> 751.24] than any other -[751.24 --> 751.96] satisfaction -[751.96 --> 754.28] I call it joy -[754.28 --> 755.10] Lewis continues -[755.10 --> 756.16] which is here -[756.16 --> 757.18] a technical term -[757.18 --> 757.82] and must be -[757.82 --> 758.64] sharply distinguished -[758.64 --> 759.76] from both happiness -[759.76 --> 761.36] and from pleasure -[761.36 --> 762.60] which is exactly -[762.60 --> 763.08] the point -[763.08 --> 764.04] that we started with -[764.04 --> 764.48] right -[764.48 --> 766.60] that Christian joy -[766.60 --> 767.82] is more than -[767.82 --> 768.70] feeling happy -[768.70 --> 769.58] or jolly -[769.58 --> 771.00] or whatever it is -[771.00 --> 771.42] right -[771.42 --> 772.74] joy for us -[772.74 --> 773.72] is understood -[773.72 --> 774.64] as deep -[774.64 --> 775.56] down -[775.56 --> 776.72] satisfaction -[776.72 --> 779.92] God is -[779.92 --> 780.92] speaking -[780.92 --> 781.64] this morning -[781.64 --> 783.74] and he is saying -[783.74 --> 785.24] lift your eyes -[785.24 --> 785.62] up -[785.62 --> 786.50] and look -[786.50 --> 787.34] about you -[787.34 --> 789.36] come and see -[789.36 --> 790.10] what the Lord -[790.10 --> 791.08] has done -[791.08 --> 793.96] look at the story -[793.96 --> 795.02] of your life -[795.02 --> 796.26] and see how -[796.26 --> 797.32] Jesus is -[797.32 --> 798.22] the hero -[798.22 --> 799.54] tell the story -[799.54 --> 800.50] of your life -[800.50 --> 801.40] with Jesus -[801.40 --> 802.56] as the hero -[802.56 --> 803.18] and see -[803.18 --> 804.16] how God -[804.16 --> 805.24] honors that -[805.24 --> 807.56] and when you -[807.56 --> 808.30] lift your eyes -[808.30 --> 809.88] and you see -[809.88 --> 810.30] God -[810.30 --> 810.92] and you see -[810.92 --> 812.02] his beauty -[812.02 --> 813.16] and his beauty -[813.16 --> 813.92] made manifest -[813.92 --> 814.82] in the lives -[814.82 --> 815.44] of the believers -[815.44 --> 816.54] around you -[816.54 --> 817.86] when Christian -[817.86 --> 818.66] living -[818.66 --> 819.74] tells -[819.74 --> 820.98] the Advent -[820.98 --> 821.88] joy -[821.88 --> 822.94] story -[822.94 --> 824.56] look at verse 5 -[824.56 --> 825.50] then -[825.50 --> 827.18] you will be radiant -[827.18 --> 828.84] and your heart -[828.84 --> 829.64] will throb -[829.64 --> 830.90] and swell -[830.90 --> 832.18] with joy -[832.18 --> 834.98] you were created -[834.98 --> 836.60] for joy -[836.60 --> 838.48] even in this -[838.48 --> 839.64] present darkness -[839.64 --> 840.76] you are -[840.76 --> 842.00] for joy -[842.00 --> 843.24] and a joy -[843.24 --> 843.96] that is so much -[843.96 --> 844.86] more than happy -[844.86 --> 845.52] clappy -[845.52 --> 846.28] platitudes -[846.28 --> 846.94] right -[846.94 --> 848.22] right here -[848.22 --> 849.26] this deep -[849.26 --> 850.08] down -[850.08 --> 850.96] it is well -[850.96 --> 852.14] with my soul -[852.14 --> 853.10] joy -[853.10 --> 855.58] I love the way -[855.58 --> 856.56] that the Westminster -[856.56 --> 857.20] shorter -[857.20 --> 858.54] catechism puts it -[858.54 --> 859.64] it asks the question -[859.64 --> 860.58] what is the chief -[860.58 --> 861.64] end of humanity -[861.64 --> 862.22] right -[862.22 --> 863.20] what is your purpose -[863.20 --> 864.34] that you were created -[864.34 --> 864.78] for -[864.78 --> 865.50] and the answer -[865.50 --> 866.04] that it gives -[866.04 --> 866.86] is to worship -[866.86 --> 867.52] God -[867.52 --> 869.34] and enjoy -[869.34 --> 870.00] him -[870.00 --> 871.30] forever -[871.30 --> 874.56] Jonathan Edwards -[874.56 --> 875.84] is a Puritan -[875.84 --> 876.30] pastor -[876.30 --> 876.34] pastor -[876.34 --> 877.12] and theologian -[877.12 --> 877.82] from some -[877.82 --> 878.84] 300 years ago -[878.84 --> 880.54] and he has -[880.54 --> 881.68] a beautiful thesis -[881.68 --> 882.64] in a treatise -[882.64 --> 883.16] that he calls -[883.16 --> 884.34] religious affections -[884.34 --> 885.50] he writes -[885.50 --> 887.04] that true religion -[887.04 --> 888.82] in large part -[888.82 --> 889.58] consists -[889.58 --> 890.70] of holy -[890.70 --> 891.78] affections -[891.78 --> 893.42] and in that work -[893.42 --> 894.44] he goes on -[894.44 --> 895.48] to focus out -[895.48 --> 896.12] joy -[896.12 --> 897.26] as one of -[897.26 --> 898.32] the holy -[898.32 --> 899.18] affections -[899.18 --> 900.38] and then -[900.38 --> 901.16] of joy -[901.16 --> 901.90] he says -[901.90 --> 902.70] the nature -[902.70 --> 903.38] of Christian -[903.38 --> 903.76] joy -[903.76 --> 905.24] is unspeakable -[905.24 --> 906.54] because it is -[906.54 --> 907.08] purer -[907.08 --> 908.20] and more sublime -[908.20 --> 908.88] and heavenly -[908.88 --> 909.82] because it is -[909.82 --> 910.38] supernatural -[910.38 --> 911.70] truly divine -[911.70 --> 913.10] and so ineffably -[913.10 --> 913.82] excellent -[913.82 --> 915.26] no words -[915.26 --> 916.04] can describe -[916.04 --> 917.34] the sublimity -[917.34 --> 918.28] and exquisite -[918.28 --> 918.88] sweetness -[918.88 --> 919.74] of joy -[919.74 --> 920.90] in Christ -[920.90 --> 921.82] end quote -[921.82 --> 923.52] now the irony -[923.52 --> 924.36] is not lost -[924.36 --> 924.90] on me -[924.90 --> 925.70] that he says -[925.70 --> 926.26] no words -[926.26 --> 926.90] can describe -[926.90 --> 927.62] the sublimity -[927.62 --> 928.14] and exquisite -[928.14 --> 928.48] sweetness -[928.48 --> 928.92] of Christ -[928.92 --> 929.78] and then he goes -[929.78 --> 930.38] on for pages -[930.38 --> 930.94] and chapters -[930.94 --> 931.50] and chapters -[931.50 --> 932.42] to try to do -[932.42 --> 933.16] just that -[933.16 --> 935.08] but I love -[935.08 --> 935.88] what he says -[935.88 --> 936.84] and he writes -[936.84 --> 937.40] in sort of -[937.40 --> 937.94] the conclusion -[937.94 --> 938.54] of that -[938.54 --> 939.44] is that Christ -[939.44 --> 940.72] by faith -[940.72 --> 941.96] is the foundation -[941.96 --> 944.18] of all joy -[944.18 --> 946.76] you were created -[946.76 --> 948.40] for joy -[948.40 --> 950.72] and the gospel -[950.72 --> 951.42] secures that -[951.42 --> 951.90] for you -[951.90 --> 953.88] right Christ -[953.88 --> 954.38] himself -[954.38 --> 955.32] who lived -[955.32 --> 955.82] the life -[955.82 --> 956.34] I should have -[956.34 --> 956.60] lived -[956.60 --> 957.54] who died -[957.54 --> 958.18] the death -[958.18 --> 958.70] that I -[958.70 --> 959.56] deserved -[959.56 --> 960.58] right -[960.58 --> 961.52] of Jesus -[961.52 --> 962.30] we can read -[962.30 --> 962.92] that it was -[962.92 --> 963.74] for the joy -[963.74 --> 964.90] set before him -[964.90 --> 966.08] that he endured -[966.08 --> 966.68] the cross -[966.68 --> 967.30] and scorned -[967.30 --> 967.76] its shame -[967.76 --> 968.68] right -[968.68 --> 970.22] Jesus is for joy -[970.22 --> 970.96] and he is -[970.96 --> 972.18] for your joy -[972.18 --> 973.32] and the gospel -[973.32 --> 974.36] secures you -[974.36 --> 975.28] in the joy -[975.28 --> 976.24] of the beauty -[976.24 --> 977.52] of being known -[977.52 --> 978.76] and knowing -[978.76 --> 980.22] God -[980.22 --> 983.54] that's advent joy -[983.54 --> 985.58] that's the light -[985.58 --> 985.60] that's the light -[985.60 --> 986.46] that pierces -[986.46 --> 987.86] the darkness -[987.86 --> 990.36] Peter writes -[990.36 --> 991.52] in his first epistle -[991.52 --> 991.94] he says -[991.94 --> 993.12] though you have not -[993.12 --> 993.74] seen him -[993.74 --> 994.54] that's Jesus -[994.54 --> 995.60] though you have not -[995.60 --> 996.18] seen Jesus -[996.18 --> 996.96] you love him -[996.96 --> 997.90] and even though -[997.90 --> 999.10] you do not see him -[999.10 --> 999.48] now -[999.48 --> 1000.66] you believe in him -[1000.66 --> 1001.46] and are filled -[1001.46 --> 1003.18] with inexpressible -[1003.18 --> 1005.06] glorious joy -[1005.06 --> 1005.86] for you -[1005.86 --> 1006.90] are receiving -[1006.90 --> 1008.58] the end result -[1008.58 --> 1009.40] of your faith -[1009.40 --> 1010.14] the salvation -[1010.14 --> 1011.36] of your souls -[1011.36 --> 1012.32] are you -[1012.32 --> 1013.26] filled with -[1013.26 --> 1014.66] inexpressible -[1014.66 --> 1015.60] and glorious -[1015.60 --> 1016.70] joy -[1016.70 --> 1019.92] when trials come -[1019.92 --> 1021.56] when Satan -[1021.56 --> 1022.06] buffets -[1022.06 --> 1022.98] and sea billows -[1022.98 --> 1023.32] roll -[1023.32 --> 1024.62] can you sing -[1024.62 --> 1026.04] it is well -[1026.04 --> 1027.44] with my soul -[1027.44 --> 1029.46] your life -[1029.46 --> 1030.02] is telling -[1030.02 --> 1031.08] a story -[1031.08 --> 1032.34] make it -[1032.34 --> 1032.74] Jesus -[1032.74 --> 1034.04] story -[1034.04 --> 1034.80] right -[1034.80 --> 1035.08] do your -[1035.08 --> 1035.90] do your neighbors -[1035.90 --> 1036.94] hear Jesus -[1036.94 --> 1038.12] when they talk -[1038.12 --> 1038.58] to you -[1038.58 --> 1040.40] do your Facebook -[1040.40 --> 1041.10] or Instagram -[1041.10 --> 1042.06] or Snap -[1042.06 --> 1042.82] or TikTok -[1042.82 --> 1043.88] or whatever -[1043.88 --> 1045.44] platform that you are on -[1045.44 --> 1047.00] do your online comments -[1047.00 --> 1048.66] reveal that you are created -[1048.66 --> 1049.96] for so much more -[1049.96 --> 1051.82] than this present darkness -[1051.82 --> 1055.62] the joy of Jesus -[1055.62 --> 1056.52] doesn't fade -[1056.52 --> 1057.86] or spoil -[1057.86 --> 1059.30] or perish -[1059.30 --> 1061.32] the joy of Jesus -[1061.32 --> 1062.82] is eternal -[1062.82 --> 1064.02] because Jesus -[1064.02 --> 1065.40] is eternal -[1065.40 --> 1066.70] and imagine -[1066.70 --> 1068.36] what your life -[1068.36 --> 1069.68] would look like -[1069.68 --> 1071.36] with eternal joy -[1071.36 --> 1072.04] in Jesus -[1072.04 --> 1074.02] because really -[1074.02 --> 1075.74] if you believe -[1075.74 --> 1077.82] you already have it -[1077.82 --> 1080.68] today is the day -[1080.68 --> 1082.48] to live it -[1082.48 --> 1085.14] let's live -[1085.14 --> 1086.08] the joy -[1086.08 --> 1087.38] of knowing -[1087.38 --> 1088.78] and being known -[1088.78 --> 1089.86] by God -[1089.86 --> 1091.40] let's reflect -[1091.40 --> 1092.22] the beauty -[1092.22 --> 1093.48] of his glory -[1093.48 --> 1094.32] as we -[1094.32 --> 1095.06] together -[1095.06 --> 1095.76] live -[1095.76 --> 1096.74] lives -[1096.74 --> 1097.50] of joy -[1097.50 --> 1099.22] you were -[1099.22 --> 1100.80] created for joy -[1100.80 --> 1103.08] you were created -[1103.08 --> 1106.18] to bask -[1106.18 --> 1107.48] in the glory -[1107.48 --> 1109.32] of our good God -[1109.32 --> 1112.04] may you -[1112.04 --> 1112.78] know -[1112.78 --> 1114.46] the reason -[1114.46 --> 1116.02] you are here -[1116.02 --> 1116.86] today -[1116.86 --> 1119.10] may you know -[1119.10 --> 1119.64] the joy -[1119.64 --> 1120.82] of Jesus -[1120.82 --> 1121.82] amen -[1121.82 --> 1123.46] let me lead you -[1123.46 --> 1123.84] in prayer -[1123.84 --> 1129.62] Lord Jesus -[1129.62 --> 1130.64] fill us -[1130.64 --> 1132.36] with joy -[1132.36 --> 1133.68] inexpressible -[1133.68 --> 1134.56] and glorious -[1134.56 --> 1135.12] today -[1135.12 --> 1137.54] fill us -[1137.54 --> 1138.10] with the -[1138.10 --> 1138.80] the sure -[1138.80 --> 1139.30] hope -[1139.30 --> 1140.08] and knowledge -[1140.08 --> 1140.68] of knowing -[1140.68 --> 1140.96] you -[1140.96 --> 1141.50] and being -[1141.50 --> 1141.86] known -[1141.86 --> 1142.54] by you -[1142.54 --> 1144.54] fill us -[1144.54 --> 1145.58] with a joy -[1145.58 --> 1146.22] that cannot -[1146.22 --> 1147.18] be contained -[1147.18 --> 1148.32] fill us -[1148.32 --> 1149.02] with a joy -[1149.02 --> 1149.98] that even -[1149.98 --> 1151.14] when Satan -[1151.14 --> 1152.38] is buffeting -[1152.38 --> 1152.78] even -[1152.78 --> 1153.44] when sea -[1153.44 --> 1153.88] billows -[1153.88 --> 1154.82] are rolling -[1154.82 --> 1155.92] we can sing -[1155.92 --> 1156.56] together -[1156.56 --> 1158.26] it is -[1158.26 --> 1159.14] well -[1159.14 --> 1161.58] may we know -[1161.58 --> 1161.92] the joy -[1161.92 --> 1162.30] of Jesus -[1162.30 --> 1163.74] and may we -[1163.74 --> 1164.96] be a people -[1164.96 --> 1165.86] whose lives -[1165.86 --> 1167.24] tell the good -[1167.24 --> 1168.10] story -[1168.10 --> 1169.46] of Jesus -[1169.46 --> 1169.92] come -[1169.92 --> 1170.48] from the -[1170.48 --> 1170.80] Father -[1170.80 --> 1171.48] full of -[1171.48 --> 1171.82] grace -[1171.82 --> 1172.74] and truth -[1172.74 --> 1174.52] in your name -[1174.52 --> 1175.00] we pray -[1175.00 --> 1175.72] Lord Jesus -[1175.72 --> 1177.26] amen -[1177.26 --> 1187.18] ye -[1187.18 --> 1191.02] how -[1191.02 --> 1193.10] are you -[1195.78 --> 1197.02] them -[1199.02 --> 1199.42] you -[1199.42 --> 1199.56] and -[1199.56 --> 1200.00] out diff --git a/I Will Wait - A Peace Provided (Sermon)_summary.txt b/I Will Wait - A Peace Provided (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 055c5c7731a260cdc3c8496cd5bde063c4c714af..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/I Will Wait - A Peace Provided (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,51 +0,0 @@ -• Reading from Luke 1, verses 67-79 -• Appreciation for congregation's feedback and support -• Discussion of difficulties in preaching during pandemic times -• Personal anecdotes about being stuck behind obstacles (snow plows, garbage truck) -• Parables about feeling stuck and wanting to hurry through challenges (Covid-19 waiting periods, end-of-year anticipation) -• Delayed journey due to snowplows -• Reading from Zachariah's song (also known as the Benedictus) -• Story of Zachariah and his encounter with Gabriel, leading to his wife Elizabeth becoming pregnant at an advanced age -• Zachariah's initial skepticism and subsequent punishment of being unable to speak until the child was born -• Birth of John the Baptist and his naming ceremony -• Zachariah's song of praise and its significance -• Explanation of the first part of Zachariah's song, describing the coming of a savior who would bring redemption and salvation -• Jesus as the son to be born to Mary -• Relationship between John and Jesus -• Zachariah's prophecy about his son John -• Purpose of John as a prophet: to prepare the way for Jesus -• Connection between God's mercy and peace in one's life -• The gift nature of God's mercy, grace, and peace -• The concept of peace in the Bible and its relation to God's mercy -• The difference between the world's peace and Jesus' peace -• The idea that Jesus' peace is whole-life restoration, returning individuals to God's design and intent -• The Hebrew concept of "shalom" as a greeting and a word for peace -• The connection between the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22) and peace -• The biblical concept of shalom and its meaning -• Shalom as wholeness, flourishing, and delight -• God's intention for humanity and the state of affairs in the world -• The consequence of shalom breaking and its impact on individual lives -• The gospel of Jesus Christ as a means to restore relationship with God and bring peace -• The ongoing process of restoration and transformation through living out the gospel -• The speaker is experiencing peace through their faith in Jesus -• They are justified and sanctified by the gospel -• There is a growing emphasis on justice among younger Christians, particularly in youth ministries -• Church leaders and established churches are taking notice of this trend -• The church needs to adapt its mission to reflect this new generation's values, such as fighting for shalom (peace) -• The concept of "severe mercies" as God's use of extreme events to reveal His mercy and peace -• The idea that waiting or being slowed down can be a form of preparation or protection from something greater -• The sovereignty of God over all creation, including the purpose behind suffering or trials in life -• A book called "Severe Mercies" by Sheldon Van Alken as an example of severe events used to reveal God's mercy and peace. -• God's severe mercies can be used to bring glory to Himself, even if they are difficult or painful -• Jonah's experience being swallowed by a fish was a correction from God -• Naaman's leprosy was also used by God for His own purposes and glory -• Severe mercy can lead individuals to the end of themselves and make them realize their brokenness and selfishness -• This realization can be a gift, allowing people to discover the truth about themselves and their relationship with God -• God promises that present sufferings are not worth comparing to the future glory that will be revealed in believers -• God works for the good of those who love Him, according to His purpose -• The trouble is often that we may never know God's purpose on this side of heaven -• Restoration of life and being to one's intent and design -• Being fully human and alive for the glory of God -• Trusting in God's goodness, plan, and power through trials and challenges -• Praying in Jesus' name -• Confidently facing difficulties with a reliance on God's guidance \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/I Will Wait - A Peace Provided (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/I Will Wait - A Peace Provided (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3b699f9c4b9bb43790c1fbea7266efd37cd8562e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/I Will Wait - A Peace Provided (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,988 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 13.02] this morning together we're going to read from luke 1 we're going to read verse 67 through 79 -[13.02 --> 20.38] i invite you to grab your bible grab a notebook whatever it is that will help you engage in this -[20.38 --> 26.82] process we will have the text on the screen and i also just want to say personally i really -[26.82 --> 34.12] appreciate everyone's feedback and emails and touching base with me at some point throughout -[34.12 --> 42.34] the week preaching in this way to an almost empty sanctuary is difficult because you don't get that -[42.34 --> 48.18] same interaction over coffee after church or whatever the case may be and so those ways that -[48.18 --> 54.70] we do experience that are meaningful to me and so thank you for that now that you found luke 1 let's -[54.70 --> 56.68] read together starting at verse 67 -[56.68 --> 71.54] his father zachariah was filled with the holy spirit and prophesied praise be to the lord the god of -[71.54 --> 79.14] israel because he has come and has redeemed his people he has raised up a horn of salvation for -[79.14 --> 86.98] us in the house of his servant david as he said through his holy prophets long ago salvation from -[86.98 --> 93.22] our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us to show mercy to our fathers and to remember his holy -[93.22 --> 100.32] covenant the oath he swore to our father abraham to rescue us from the hand of our enemies and to enable -[100.32 --> 108.56] us to serve him without fear in holiness and righteousness before him all our days and you -[108.56 --> 115.66] my child will be called a prophet of the most high for you will go on before the lord to prepare the way -[115.66 --> 122.60] for him to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins because of -[122.60 --> 129.76] the tender mercy of our god by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living -[129.76 --> 138.74] in darkness and in the shadow of death to guide our feet into the path of peace this is the word of the lord -[138.74 --> 151.88] as many of you listening will know my family recently traveled across the country in our move here we had an 11 -[151.88 --> 160.56] day long trip from ontario to here in langley and on the last day of that trip we had just from -[160.56 --> 171.12] colonna to langley left that's 350 kilometers that's all that was left of our 11 day journey we were so -[171.12 --> 178.96] excited to get here and so excited to get going in the morning that we packed everything up and we -[178.96 --> 186.72] were on the road and ready to go because we were coming to our new city our new home -[186.72 --> 194.90] but if you know that trip you know that we also had one obstacle left right you probably know it -[194.90 --> 203.40] the coquihalla highway the highway through hell as the discovery channel show calls it and the further -[203.40 --> 210.92] up the pass we got the worse the weather became this is mid-november now and by the time we reached -[210.92 --> 216.70] the summit we were no longer actually driving on roads but driving on compacted ice and snow -[216.70 --> 223.80] with the car rumbling all around the last five kilometers to the summit in fact we got stuck -[223.80 --> 231.50] behind two snow plows one in each lane and so all of that excitement all of that hurry all of that -[231.50 --> 238.32] anticipation and all of that energy to get going and to get to where we were going stopped well maybe -[238.32 --> 244.76] not stopped but crawling at five kilometers per hour behind two big machines that you can't see around -[244.76 --> 247.62] and to make matters worse i was the first car behind them -[247.62 --> 255.10] we wanted to get here so badly we had so much energy and excitement for that trip -[255.10 --> 259.40] but there we are stuck behind two snow plows -[259.40 --> 267.12] another example even more recently than that the other day we were trying to get out of our house -[267.12 --> 274.02] in the morning to get the kids off to school now that morning in particular we really struggled to get out the door -[274.02 --> 281.12] at first right the the agenda wasn't in the school bag and we couldn't find it -[281.12 --> 288.92] second the boots or the right boots weren't at the door and we couldn't find them in the chaos of a newly moved house -[288.92 --> 295.82] and third i forgot to pack the all-important water bottle in one of my kids bags and we couldn't find that -[295.82 --> 301.16] needless to say by the time we actually got everything ready we were rushing out the door -[301.16 --> 307.46] we quickly threw everything in the back of my little car started it up backed out of the driveway threw it into first gear -[307.46 --> 308.68] whipped around the corner went -[308.68 --> 313.72] stopped there's a garbage truck -[313.72 --> 320.78] now i don't know about garbage collection on your streets and i don't know if this is just a langley thing or what i'm just learning -[320.78 --> 328.46] but the garbage collection on our street has this special way of driving down the road going from side to side to side -[328.46 --> 333.08] lollygagging their way to the journey one side of the street to the other so when we were in that hurry -[333.08 --> 334.42] there i am stopped -[334.42 --> 336.34] watching the garbage truck -[336.34 --> 338.12] do its little dance -[338.12 --> 340.48] and i couldn't go anywhere -[340.48 --> 343.86] stuck behind a big green -[343.86 --> 345.36] garbage truck -[345.36 --> 348.30] now i shared these two stories -[348.30 --> 352.58] because i think they can actually function for us kind of as parables -[352.58 --> 354.08] for right now -[354.08 --> 360.76] right not just in covid times right where yes in these days we want to hurry up and we want to get through it -[360.76 --> 362.24] right we're tired of waiting -[362.24 --> 367.36] we've got the good news of vaccines that has just come and is starting to be distributed -[367.36 --> 371.56] and now we want to get back to normal whatever that means -[371.56 --> 373.74] but we can't -[373.74 --> 377.06] right we're stuck behind the big green truck of procedure -[377.06 --> 381.38] of dispensing of refrigeration technology requirements -[381.38 --> 383.18] we're stuck behind the -[383.18 --> 387.32] supply being dwarfed by the demand -[387.32 --> 391.12] we're stuck behind months more of waiting -[391.12 --> 396.04] but like i said not just in covid times but generally -[396.04 --> 399.16] right this is the the last week of advent -[399.16 --> 401.62] right it's the final days before christmas -[401.62 --> 403.42] and we just want to get there -[403.42 --> 405.38] right we just want to open our presents -[405.38 --> 407.16] we just want to cook that turkey or -[407.16 --> 409.08] small chicken maybe this year -[409.08 --> 410.22] whatever it may be -[410.22 --> 412.12] right we just want to get there -[412.12 --> 414.12] we've waited long enough -[414.12 --> 417.80] but there are two snow plows in front of us -[417.80 --> 420.46] stopping us from getting where we want to go -[420.46 --> 422.40] at the speed we want to get there -[422.40 --> 426.76] patience for everything is running thin -[426.76 --> 428.26] we've got places to be -[428.26 --> 429.50] and people to see -[429.50 --> 431.58] and we've had just about enough -[431.58 --> 432.78] of this waiting -[432.78 --> 437.94] and it's exactly into that moment -[437.94 --> 439.88] that i want to speak -[439.88 --> 444.88] precisely when we've run out of patience -[444.88 --> 450.38] precisely when we are rushing from one thing to the next to the next to the next -[450.38 --> 452.32] and then we get stopped -[452.32 --> 458.30] now we read this morning zachariah's song -[458.30 --> 460.14] it's sometimes called the benedictus -[460.14 --> 463.96] but let me remind you of zachariah's story -[463.96 --> 466.98] now zachariah is husband to elizabeth -[466.98 --> 470.72] and he is a priest serving in the temple at jerusalem -[470.72 --> 473.54] and one night while he's serving in the temple -[473.54 --> 476.08] the angel gabriel appears to him -[476.08 --> 478.44] and tells him that his wife will have a baby -[478.44 --> 480.84] now zachariah is a pretty old man -[480.84 --> 483.36] his wife is also no longer a young woman -[483.36 --> 485.30] and so he struggles to believe that -[485.30 --> 487.80] she has been barren for their entire marriage together -[487.80 --> 490.94] and he doesn't believe that this is possible -[490.94 --> 494.50] and so gabriel -[494.50 --> 497.86] in a real awesome sort of power move -[497.86 --> 498.74] actually says -[498.74 --> 500.30] i am gabriel -[500.30 --> 502.72] i stand in the presence of god -[502.72 --> 505.54] i have been sent here to speak this message to you -[505.54 --> 507.46] and because you didn't believe me -[507.46 --> 509.62] you will not be able to speak -[509.62 --> 512.04] until the child is born -[512.04 --> 514.44] and zachariah fell mute -[514.44 --> 517.30] fast forward nine months -[517.30 --> 519.34] zachariah has finished -[519.34 --> 521.94] at the end of his time in the temple -[521.94 --> 523.54] he goes back home to elizabeth -[523.54 --> 524.66] nine months later -[524.66 --> 525.80] they have a son -[525.80 --> 526.84] and he is born -[526.84 --> 528.16] and on the eighth day -[528.16 --> 529.20] their child -[529.20 --> 530.82] is taken -[530.82 --> 533.20] to be circumcised -[533.20 --> 535.18] now this is normal for jewish boys -[535.18 --> 536.30] to do on the eighth day -[536.30 --> 537.36] the eighth day -[537.36 --> 538.26] the day of circumcision -[538.26 --> 540.48] is also the official naming day -[540.48 --> 542.50] and so you didn't release the name of the child -[542.50 --> 543.26] out into the public -[543.26 --> 544.28] until that day -[544.28 --> 546.92] he was going to be named after his father -[546.92 --> 548.36] or so everyone assumed -[548.36 --> 549.92] but the angel gabriel -[549.92 --> 552.10] gabriel had told zachariah -[552.10 --> 554.06] that he should be called john -[554.06 --> 556.18] and so when people come and say -[556.18 --> 557.74] what name will this child be given -[557.74 --> 559.76] zachariah takes his writing tablet -[559.76 --> 560.36] because remember -[560.36 --> 561.34] he hasn't been able to speak -[561.34 --> 562.18] for these nine months -[562.18 --> 563.42] and he is about to -[563.42 --> 565.08] and he writes on that tablet -[565.08 --> 567.36] his name is john -[567.36 --> 569.02] and as soon as he does that -[569.02 --> 570.66] his mouth is opened -[570.66 --> 572.00] and he can speak again -[572.00 --> 574.54] and he begins praising god -[574.54 --> 578.00] what we read -[578.00 --> 579.88] is his song of praise -[579.88 --> 582.14] now look at it with me -[582.14 --> 583.04] have it in front of you -[583.04 --> 583.74] hopefully right -[583.74 --> 585.34] the first part of that song -[585.34 --> 586.92] verse 68 through 75 -[586.92 --> 588.16] is about -[588.16 --> 589.96] what who zachariah calls -[589.96 --> 592.28] the lord coming to redeem his people -[592.28 --> 593.14] right -[593.14 --> 594.78] this part is about a son -[594.78 --> 595.96] who would be in the house -[595.96 --> 597.18] and line of david -[597.18 --> 598.48] who zachariah calls -[598.48 --> 599.82] a horn of salvation -[599.82 --> 600.80] right -[600.80 --> 602.74] he will bring salvation from enemies -[602.74 --> 604.22] and bring mercy to fathers -[604.22 --> 606.06] by remembering his covenant -[606.06 --> 607.28] his promise -[607.28 --> 607.80] right -[607.80 --> 608.62] this son -[608.62 --> 609.90] king and lord -[609.90 --> 612.16] will make people able to serve -[612.16 --> 613.82] god without fear -[613.82 --> 614.58] in holiness -[614.58 --> 615.60] and in righteousness -[615.60 --> 618.84] now zachariah may not have known it -[618.84 --> 620.08] but the holy spirit -[620.08 --> 621.34] who gave him this song -[621.34 --> 622.14] sure did -[622.14 --> 622.86] and we do -[622.86 --> 624.44] standing on this side of history -[624.44 --> 625.44] this side of jesus -[625.44 --> 627.64] we know that he is talking about -[627.64 --> 628.48] jesus -[628.48 --> 630.20] the son to be born to mary -[630.20 --> 630.76] in fact -[630.76 --> 632.28] elizabeth's relative -[632.28 --> 633.26] of some sort -[633.26 --> 633.80] right -[633.80 --> 634.94] zachariah's boy -[634.94 --> 635.56] john -[635.56 --> 636.60] and that boy -[636.60 --> 637.16] jesus -[637.16 --> 638.60] will be related -[638.60 --> 639.38] and jesus -[639.38 --> 640.28] we know -[640.28 --> 641.22] is the god -[641.22 --> 642.78] man promised of ages -[642.78 --> 644.10] who will take away -[644.10 --> 645.22] the sin of the world -[645.22 --> 648.08] and in the next part of the song -[648.08 --> 648.60] you see it -[648.60 --> 650.16] beginning in verse 76 -[650.16 --> 651.78] zachariah turns -[651.78 --> 652.84] his focus -[652.84 --> 654.18] to his son -[654.18 --> 656.70] and the prophecy says -[656.70 --> 657.22] and you -[657.22 --> 658.02] my child -[658.02 --> 658.72] will be called -[658.72 --> 659.26] a prophet -[659.26 --> 660.48] prophet of the most high -[660.48 --> 661.20] for you -[661.20 --> 662.58] will go before the lord -[662.58 --> 664.06] to prepare the way for him -[664.06 --> 665.90] and here's the focus -[665.90 --> 666.92] that i want us to -[666.92 --> 668.32] zero in on -[668.32 --> 669.08] this morning -[669.08 --> 670.10] right -[670.10 --> 671.08] look at verse 76 -[671.08 --> 672.80] and and track through -[672.80 --> 674.18] how zachariah -[674.18 --> 674.90] builds -[674.90 --> 675.18] right -[675.18 --> 676.52] john will grow up -[676.52 --> 677.80] to be a prophet -[677.80 --> 679.30] preparing the way -[679.30 --> 680.00] for jesus -[680.00 --> 681.34] by teaching salvation -[681.34 --> 682.70] through the forgiveness -[682.70 --> 683.40] of sins -[683.40 --> 685.02] because of the -[685.02 --> 686.04] tender -[686.04 --> 687.96] mercy of god -[687.96 --> 689.94] and then notice -[689.94 --> 690.94] the the tender -[690.94 --> 691.86] mercy of god -[691.86 --> 692.30] at the beginning -[692.30 --> 693.22] of verse 78 -[693.22 --> 694.78] is connected -[694.78 --> 696.38] by a straight line -[696.38 --> 697.70] to those living -[697.70 --> 698.32] in darkness -[698.32 --> 699.24] to those living -[699.24 --> 699.84] in the shadow -[699.84 --> 700.32] of death -[700.32 --> 702.00] to guide our feet -[702.00 --> 702.88] and here it is -[702.88 --> 705.14] into the path -[705.14 --> 706.48] of peace -[706.48 --> 708.36] right the mercy -[708.36 --> 709.00] of god -[709.00 --> 711.08] has a straight line -[711.08 --> 712.86] to peace -[712.86 --> 714.58] in your life -[714.58 --> 717.18] when you've experienced -[717.18 --> 717.90] the mercy -[717.90 --> 719.06] of god -[719.06 --> 721.58] it's made manifest -[721.58 --> 723.26] in peace -[723.26 --> 725.70] when you know -[725.70 --> 726.48] mercy -[726.48 --> 729.14] it's made tangible -[729.14 --> 731.44] in peace -[731.44 --> 733.46] when the mercy -[733.46 --> 734.12] that god -[734.12 --> 735.34] has the mercy -[735.34 --> 735.82] of god -[735.82 --> 736.92] has made its way -[736.92 --> 738.28] into here -[738.28 --> 739.70] that is into the throne -[739.70 --> 740.46] of your heart -[740.46 --> 741.82] there will be peace -[741.82 --> 742.82] in here -[742.82 --> 743.72] right that's in the -[743.72 --> 744.68] movements of your mind -[744.68 --> 746.10] and there will be peace -[746.10 --> 746.92] out here -[746.92 --> 747.84] in the makings -[747.84 --> 748.72] of your hands -[748.72 --> 750.56] right as the mercy -[750.56 --> 751.46] of god -[751.46 --> 752.50] makes its way -[752.50 --> 753.36] to the throne -[753.36 --> 754.36] of your heart -[754.36 --> 755.88] there will be peace -[755.88 --> 756.62] in the movements -[756.62 --> 757.32] of your mind -[757.32 --> 757.96] and peace -[757.96 --> 759.00] in the makings -[759.00 --> 760.12] of your hands -[760.12 --> 763.06] and just -[763.06 --> 763.90] like -[763.90 --> 764.74] god's -[764.74 --> 765.62] mercy -[765.62 --> 766.68] and grace -[766.68 --> 767.52] is a gift -[767.52 --> 769.84] so is the peace -[769.84 --> 770.56] that he -[770.56 --> 771.50] offers -[771.50 --> 773.16] think about -[773.16 --> 774.20] what the angels -[774.20 --> 775.34] say to the shepherds -[775.34 --> 776.40] and we've been saying it -[776.40 --> 777.66] every week -[777.66 --> 778.20] in the month -[778.20 --> 779.34] of december -[779.34 --> 779.96] because it's the -[779.96 --> 780.80] emmanuel kids -[780.80 --> 781.80] memory verse -[781.80 --> 783.22] glory to god -[783.22 --> 783.92] in the highest -[783.92 --> 784.90] and on earth -[784.90 --> 786.74] peace -[786.74 --> 788.46] peace to those -[788.46 --> 789.08] on whom -[789.08 --> 790.36] his favor -[790.36 --> 791.42] rests -[791.42 --> 793.48] and again -[793.48 --> 794.44] right -[794.44 --> 794.96] when jesus -[794.96 --> 795.70] is preaching -[795.70 --> 796.36] and teaching -[796.36 --> 798.04] he says to his disciples -[798.04 --> 799.34] in john 14 -[799.34 --> 799.76] he says -[799.76 --> 800.34] peace -[800.34 --> 800.78] i -[800.78 --> 802.72] leave with you -[802.72 --> 803.78] my peace -[803.78 --> 804.86] i give to you -[804.86 --> 805.76] i do not give -[805.76 --> 806.88] as the world gives -[806.88 --> 808.12] do not let your hearts -[808.12 --> 808.66] be troubled -[808.66 --> 810.82] and do not be afraid -[810.82 --> 812.34] right -[812.34 --> 812.84] paul -[812.84 --> 813.52] says -[813.52 --> 814.56] the mind -[814.56 --> 815.00] governed -[815.00 --> 816.08] by the spirit -[816.08 --> 816.96] is life -[816.96 --> 817.90] and -[817.90 --> 818.88] peace -[818.88 --> 820.26] right -[820.26 --> 821.14] or think of the fruit -[821.14 --> 821.84] of the spirit -[821.84 --> 822.32] right -[822.32 --> 823.24] the fruit of the spirit -[823.24 --> 823.60] again -[823.60 --> 824.78] a new reality -[824.78 --> 825.34] in you -[825.34 --> 826.30] because of the gift -[826.30 --> 827.46] of the holy spirit -[827.46 --> 828.82] right the fruit of the spirit -[828.82 --> 830.04] in galatians 5 22 -[830.04 --> 831.54] but the fruit of the spirit -[831.54 --> 832.90] is love -[832.90 --> 834.04] joy -[834.04 --> 835.94] peace -[835.94 --> 839.26] jesus has come -[839.26 --> 841.36] and there is a straight line -[841.36 --> 842.78] from the mercy of god -[842.78 --> 845.00] given to the peace of god -[845.00 --> 846.06] experienced -[846.06 --> 847.38] in your life -[847.38 --> 850.16] and let me be really -[850.16 --> 851.04] clear -[851.04 --> 853.22] the peace -[853.22 --> 854.14] that jesus -[854.14 --> 854.78] brings -[854.78 --> 856.16] is so much -[856.16 --> 856.88] more -[856.88 --> 857.30] than -[857.30 --> 858.60] not war -[858.60 --> 859.58] right -[859.58 --> 860.98] it's even more -[860.98 --> 861.92] than a sense of -[861.92 --> 862.50] calm -[862.50 --> 863.76] in chaos -[863.76 --> 864.54] the peace -[864.54 --> 865.46] that jesus -[865.46 --> 865.82] brings -[865.82 --> 867.02] is even more -[867.02 --> 867.84] than the forgiveness -[867.84 --> 868.60] of sins -[868.60 --> 869.62] now it is that -[869.62 --> 870.18] of course -[870.18 --> 871.36] but it's also more -[871.36 --> 872.30] the peace -[872.30 --> 873.26] of jesus -[873.26 --> 875.08] is whole life -[875.08 --> 875.76] restoration -[875.76 --> 877.30] to the design -[877.30 --> 878.36] and intent -[878.36 --> 879.42] of god -[879.42 --> 880.26] for you -[880.26 --> 882.68] the peace -[882.68 --> 883.18] of jesus -[883.18 --> 884.22] is whole life -[884.22 --> 884.66] restoration -[884.66 --> 885.74] to the design -[885.74 --> 886.62] and intent -[886.62 --> 887.40] of god -[887.40 --> 888.60] for you -[888.60 --> 890.42] and for your life -[890.42 --> 892.00] for your neighborhood -[892.00 --> 893.70] and community -[893.70 --> 895.42] now the word -[895.42 --> 895.98] peace -[895.98 --> 897.58] in the bible -[897.58 --> 898.96] is really built -[898.96 --> 900.14] on the hebrew -[900.14 --> 900.64] concept -[900.64 --> 901.44] of the word -[901.44 --> 902.02] shalom -[902.02 --> 903.64] now maybe you've heard -[903.64 --> 904.38] that word before -[904.38 --> 905.18] and today -[905.18 --> 906.36] in modern day -[906.36 --> 907.22] israel -[907.22 --> 909.04] the word shalom -[909.04 --> 909.76] is used -[909.76 --> 910.44] as a greeting -[910.44 --> 910.96] right -[910.96 --> 912.00] people will walk around -[912.00 --> 912.46] and they'll see -[912.46 --> 912.90] their neighbor -[912.90 --> 913.94] or someone in the streets -[913.94 --> 914.58] and they will say -[914.58 --> 915.12] shalom -[915.12 --> 916.22] boker tov -[916.22 --> 917.30] which just means -[917.30 --> 917.84] peace -[917.84 --> 918.84] good morning -[918.84 --> 921.42] in the bible -[921.42 --> 921.84] though -[921.84 --> 922.72] shalom -[922.72 --> 923.78] is so -[923.78 --> 924.68] much -[924.68 --> 925.44] more -[925.44 --> 926.56] right -[926.56 --> 927.08] shalom -[927.08 --> 927.36] is -[927.36 --> 928.46] wholeness -[928.46 --> 929.12] restored -[929.12 --> 930.98] in fact -[930.98 --> 931.62] I really love -[931.62 --> 931.98] the way -[931.98 --> 932.28] that -[932.28 --> 932.98] cornelius -[932.98 --> 933.58] plantiga -[933.58 --> 934.08] jr -[934.08 --> 935.02] puts it -[935.02 --> 936.40] he says -[936.40 --> 937.84] in the bible -[937.84 --> 938.88] shalom -[938.88 --> 939.66] means -[939.66 --> 940.56] universal -[940.56 --> 941.44] flourishing -[941.44 --> 942.40] wholeness -[942.40 --> 943.16] and delight -[943.16 --> 944.00] a rich -[944.00 --> 944.98] state of affairs -[944.98 --> 945.52] in which -[945.52 --> 946.78] natural needs -[946.78 --> 947.52] are satisfied -[947.52 --> 948.42] and natural -[948.42 --> 948.88] gifts -[948.88 --> 949.70] fruitfully -[949.70 --> 950.38] employed -[950.38 --> 951.18] a state -[951.18 --> 951.70] of affairs -[951.70 --> 952.42] that inspires -[952.42 --> 953.52] joyful wonder -[953.52 --> 954.72] as its creator -[954.72 --> 955.30] and savior -[955.30 --> 956.24] opens doors -[956.24 --> 956.96] and welcomes -[956.96 --> 957.64] the creatures -[957.64 --> 958.44] in whom -[958.44 --> 959.24] he delights -[959.24 --> 960.62] shalom -[960.62 --> 962.20] in other words -[962.20 --> 963.26] is the way -[963.26 --> 964.18] things ought -[964.18 --> 964.80] to be -[964.80 --> 967.28] the peace -[967.28 --> 968.18] of advent -[968.18 --> 969.86] the peace -[969.86 --> 971.12] of christmas -[971.12 --> 972.04] the peace -[972.04 --> 972.64] that we are -[972.64 --> 973.40] all longing -[973.40 --> 973.78] for -[973.78 --> 974.80] is being -[974.80 --> 975.60] restored -[975.60 --> 976.44] to god's -[976.44 --> 976.98] intention -[976.98 --> 978.08] and god's -[978.08 --> 978.56] design -[978.56 --> 980.16] the things -[980.16 --> 981.14] that are wrong -[981.14 --> 981.94] in the world -[981.94 --> 982.86] or when things -[982.86 --> 983.44] go wrong -[983.44 --> 984.32] in your life -[984.32 --> 985.24] are really -[985.24 --> 986.04] the consequence -[986.04 --> 986.88] of shalom -[986.88 --> 987.60] breaking -[987.60 --> 989.98] the gospel -[989.98 --> 991.46] of jesus -[991.46 --> 992.46] living the life -[992.46 --> 993.48] i should have lived -[993.48 --> 994.48] and dying -[994.48 --> 995.06] the death -[995.06 --> 995.88] that i deserved -[995.88 --> 997.02] that gospel -[997.02 --> 997.82] means -[997.82 --> 999.20] is the means -[999.20 --> 999.78] by which -[999.78 --> 1000.92] i am restored -[1000.92 --> 1001.74] right -[1001.74 --> 1002.34] not just to -[1002.34 --> 1002.88] relationship -[1002.88 --> 1003.46] with god -[1003.46 --> 1004.44] my heavenly father -[1004.44 --> 1005.54] but the means -[1005.54 --> 1006.50] by which i am -[1006.50 --> 1006.96] restored -[1006.96 --> 1007.76] to everything -[1007.76 --> 1008.56] that god had -[1008.56 --> 1009.02] in mind -[1009.02 --> 1009.68] for humanity -[1009.68 --> 1010.94] when he said -[1010.94 --> 1012.00] let us make -[1012.00 --> 1012.56] humanity -[1012.56 --> 1014.04] in our -[1014.04 --> 1014.78] image -[1014.78 --> 1017.54] and look -[1017.54 --> 1018.80] it's not easy -[1018.80 --> 1019.88] right -[1019.88 --> 1021.44] sin still has -[1021.44 --> 1022.24] a hold -[1022.24 --> 1023.00] on parts -[1023.00 --> 1023.48] of me -[1023.48 --> 1024.74] right -[1024.74 --> 1025.46] and just because -[1025.46 --> 1026.10] i believe -[1026.10 --> 1026.80] this doctrine -[1026.80 --> 1027.56] to be true -[1027.56 --> 1028.46] doesn't mean -[1028.46 --> 1029.14] that my life -[1029.14 --> 1029.70] is totally -[1029.70 --> 1030.32] transformed -[1030.32 --> 1030.72] and that i'm -[1030.72 --> 1031.40] a picture -[1031.40 --> 1032.20] perfect saint -[1032.20 --> 1032.82] of peace -[1032.82 --> 1033.34] and calm -[1033.34 --> 1034.06] and restoration -[1034.06 --> 1035.54] just ask my kids -[1035.54 --> 1036.26] they will tell you -[1036.26 --> 1036.92] that's not true -[1036.92 --> 1039.08] but it -[1039.08 --> 1040.42] does mean -[1040.42 --> 1042.02] i am being -[1042.02 --> 1042.90] transformed -[1042.90 --> 1044.14] it does mean -[1044.14 --> 1044.74] i am in the -[1044.74 --> 1045.30] midst of -[1045.30 --> 1046.20] restoration -[1046.20 --> 1046.66] right -[1046.66 --> 1047.16] i have -[1047.16 --> 1047.80] the peace -[1047.80 --> 1048.40] that jesus -[1048.40 --> 1048.88] offers -[1048.88 --> 1049.84] because i have -[1049.84 --> 1050.44] by grace -[1050.44 --> 1051.00] through faith -[1051.00 --> 1052.10] being the object -[1052.10 --> 1052.98] of god's -[1052.98 --> 1053.50] mercy -[1053.50 --> 1054.48] and the line -[1054.48 --> 1055.12] from god's -[1055.12 --> 1055.46] mercy -[1055.46 --> 1056.40] goes straight -[1056.40 --> 1057.12] through -[1057.12 --> 1057.94] right through -[1057.94 --> 1058.48] me -[1058.48 --> 1059.62] and to me -[1059.62 --> 1060.60] and everything -[1060.60 --> 1061.20] i do -[1061.20 --> 1062.06] right -[1062.06 --> 1062.78] in theological -[1062.78 --> 1063.54] terms -[1063.54 --> 1064.64] i am justified -[1064.64 --> 1065.48] by the gospel -[1065.48 --> 1066.26] and i am being -[1066.26 --> 1067.20] sanctified -[1067.20 --> 1068.42] by the gospel -[1068.42 --> 1070.24] and my mission -[1070.24 --> 1070.60] now -[1070.60 --> 1071.38] our mission -[1071.38 --> 1071.74] now -[1071.74 --> 1072.54] as christians -[1072.54 --> 1073.24] in the world -[1073.24 --> 1074.10] with this message -[1074.10 --> 1074.54] of peace -[1074.54 --> 1075.60] is to live -[1075.60 --> 1076.72] in its -[1076.72 --> 1077.46] truth -[1077.46 --> 1080.20] and in fact -[1080.20 --> 1081.92] there's a -[1081.92 --> 1083.68] generation of christians -[1083.68 --> 1084.16] really -[1084.16 --> 1085.06] who are leading -[1085.06 --> 1085.94] the way in this -[1085.94 --> 1087.98] a few years ago -[1087.98 --> 1089.62] bethany hoang -[1089.62 --> 1090.38] wrote an article -[1090.38 --> 1091.26] for a leadership -[1091.26 --> 1091.72] journal -[1091.72 --> 1092.96] under the umbrella -[1092.96 --> 1094.10] of christianity today -[1094.10 --> 1095.32] and in that article -[1095.32 --> 1096.00] she writes -[1096.00 --> 1098.62] the rising concern -[1098.62 --> 1099.60] for justice -[1099.60 --> 1100.38] is seen -[1100.38 --> 1101.60] most dramatically -[1101.60 --> 1103.02] among the younger -[1103.02 --> 1103.68] generation -[1103.68 --> 1104.92] in the church -[1104.92 --> 1107.00] christians in college -[1107.00 --> 1108.08] in high school -[1108.08 --> 1109.32] and even middle school -[1109.32 --> 1110.22] and elementary school -[1110.22 --> 1110.92] are putting -[1110.92 --> 1112.48] extraordinary emphasis -[1112.48 --> 1113.30] on justice -[1113.30 --> 1114.38] as part of their -[1114.38 --> 1115.10] christian witness -[1115.10 --> 1116.70] and established churches -[1116.70 --> 1117.42] and ministries -[1117.42 --> 1118.48] are taking notice -[1118.48 --> 1120.76] scores of church -[1120.76 --> 1121.56] youth ministries -[1121.56 --> 1122.54] are now leading -[1122.54 --> 1123.04] the way -[1123.04 --> 1123.90] in mobilizing -[1123.90 --> 1124.36] students -[1124.36 --> 1124.86] not only -[1124.86 --> 1125.46] to proclaim -[1125.46 --> 1126.06] the gospel -[1126.06 --> 1127.06] but to work -[1127.06 --> 1128.12] for justice -[1128.12 --> 1129.38] in the world -[1129.38 --> 1131.46] in the world -[1131.46 --> 1132.76] we have -[1132.76 --> 1133.62] malala -[1133.62 --> 1134.32] and we have -[1134.32 --> 1134.68] greta -[1134.68 --> 1135.68] leading different -[1135.68 --> 1136.10] charges -[1136.10 --> 1136.68] and different -[1136.68 --> 1137.16] changes -[1137.16 --> 1138.28] but who will -[1138.28 --> 1139.02] the church's -[1139.02 --> 1140.20] version of that -[1140.20 --> 1140.44] be -[1140.44 --> 1141.72] who will our -[1141.72 --> 1142.48] church's version -[1142.48 --> 1143.74] of that be -[1143.74 --> 1145.56] maybe it's you -[1145.56 --> 1148.00] out of the peace -[1148.00 --> 1149.42] jesus provides -[1149.42 --> 1150.80] how will you -[1150.80 --> 1151.72] fight -[1151.72 --> 1152.88] for shalom -[1152.88 --> 1156.98] and finally -[1156.98 --> 1158.82] and i'll end -[1158.82 --> 1159.28] it here -[1159.28 --> 1160.54] this morning -[1160.54 --> 1161.90] as we have -[1161.90 --> 1162.38] drawn -[1162.38 --> 1163.68] the line -[1163.68 --> 1164.60] from god's -[1164.60 --> 1164.98] mercy -[1164.98 --> 1166.16] to experiencing -[1166.16 --> 1166.92] peace -[1166.92 --> 1167.80] and shalom -[1167.80 --> 1168.48] in life -[1168.48 --> 1169.76] i want to go -[1169.76 --> 1170.28] back to the -[1170.28 --> 1171.24] illustrations that i -[1171.24 --> 1171.86] opened with -[1171.86 --> 1172.96] that i said are -[1172.96 --> 1173.62] sort of parable -[1173.62 --> 1174.46] for our experience -[1174.46 --> 1174.92] right now -[1174.92 --> 1176.74] first -[1176.74 --> 1177.94] knowing this -[1177.94 --> 1178.54] peace -[1178.54 --> 1179.32] that comes -[1179.32 --> 1179.98] from god's -[1179.98 --> 1180.50] mercy -[1180.50 --> 1181.72] maybe we -[1181.72 --> 1182.36] don't have -[1182.36 --> 1183.12] to rush -[1183.12 --> 1185.00] maybe we -[1185.00 --> 1185.22] don't have -[1185.22 --> 1185.58] to rush -[1185.58 --> 1185.96] through -[1185.96 --> 1186.94] the waiting -[1186.94 --> 1187.72] maybe the -[1187.72 --> 1188.62] peace of god -[1188.62 --> 1189.00] given -[1189.00 --> 1190.24] in mercy -[1190.24 --> 1191.00] is enough -[1191.00 --> 1191.90] to sustain -[1191.90 --> 1192.34] us -[1192.34 --> 1193.46] in that -[1193.46 --> 1193.76] waiting -[1193.76 --> 1195.42] second -[1195.42 --> 1197.10] maybe -[1197.10 --> 1198.56] the waiting -[1198.56 --> 1200.46] is actually -[1200.46 --> 1201.36] sustaining you -[1201.36 --> 1203.00] or maybe it's -[1203.00 --> 1204.22] preparing you -[1204.22 --> 1204.80] for something -[1204.80 --> 1206.50] right i was -[1206.50 --> 1207.60] frustrated when i -[1207.60 --> 1208.36] got stopped -[1208.36 --> 1209.24] behind those -[1209.24 --> 1210.16] two snowplows -[1210.16 --> 1211.02] crawling along -[1211.02 --> 1211.82] right i had -[1211.82 --> 1212.80] places to be -[1212.80 --> 1214.18] and places i -[1214.18 --> 1214.88] wanted to go -[1214.88 --> 1215.66] and get to -[1215.66 --> 1216.36] and they were -[1216.36 --> 1216.94] slowing me -[1216.94 --> 1217.28] down -[1217.28 --> 1218.84] but maybe -[1218.84 --> 1221.52] maybe -[1221.52 --> 1222.52] without them -[1222.52 --> 1224.28] i would have -[1224.28 --> 1224.78] learned the real -[1224.78 --> 1225.46] reason why they -[1225.46 --> 1225.96] call it the -[1225.96 --> 1226.62] highway from hell -[1226.62 --> 1228.30] now i don't know -[1228.30 --> 1228.82] for sure -[1228.82 --> 1230.56] but maybe -[1230.56 --> 1233.10] the moderate -[1233.10 --> 1234.38] inconvenience -[1234.38 --> 1235.40] that god -[1235.40 --> 1236.40] god has -[1236.40 --> 1236.88] brought -[1236.88 --> 1238.32] may be used -[1238.32 --> 1239.00] by god -[1239.00 --> 1240.10] to protect us -[1240.10 --> 1240.70] from something -[1240.70 --> 1241.02] more -[1241.02 --> 1243.48] and yet -[1243.48 --> 1245.30] here's where it -[1245.30 --> 1245.94] gets really hard -[1245.94 --> 1248.90] this will also -[1248.90 --> 1249.46] be true -[1249.46 --> 1251.12] of the more -[1251.12 --> 1251.66] than moderate -[1251.66 --> 1252.62] inconveniences -[1252.62 --> 1255.06] right if god -[1255.06 --> 1255.66] is sovereign -[1255.66 --> 1256.36] over all -[1256.36 --> 1256.92] creation -[1256.92 --> 1258.38] it must be -[1258.38 --> 1258.98] true in -[1258.98 --> 1260.14] every circumstance -[1260.14 --> 1261.52] right for -[1261.52 --> 1262.62] any suffering -[1262.62 --> 1263.50] or trial -[1263.50 --> 1264.30] or tribulation -[1264.30 --> 1265.44] in this life -[1265.44 --> 1266.38] to have any -[1266.38 --> 1267.48] meaning god -[1267.48 --> 1268.24] must have a -[1268.24 --> 1268.96] purpose for it -[1268.96 --> 1269.80] and a plan -[1269.80 --> 1270.60] that connects -[1270.60 --> 1271.50] to his mercy -[1271.50 --> 1272.52] he must -[1272.52 --> 1275.36] and we believe -[1275.36 --> 1275.92] he does -[1275.92 --> 1279.56] there's an -[1279.56 --> 1280.62] autobiographical -[1280.62 --> 1281.92] book by a man -[1281.92 --> 1282.68] named sheldon -[1282.68 --> 1283.24] van alken -[1283.24 --> 1283.96] he was a friend -[1283.96 --> 1284.50] of c.s. -[1284.58 --> 1284.84] lewis -[1284.84 --> 1285.96] and he wrote -[1285.96 --> 1286.96] a man -[1286.96 --> 1287.20] after his -[1287.20 --> 1288.54] wife passed -[1288.54 --> 1288.80] away -[1288.80 --> 1290.38] and that book -[1290.38 --> 1291.06] was called -[1291.06 --> 1292.98] severe mercies -[1292.98 --> 1294.86] severe mercies -[1294.86 --> 1295.72] has become a -[1295.72 --> 1296.56] sort of theological -[1296.56 --> 1297.72] term for what -[1297.72 --> 1298.16] we're talking -[1298.16 --> 1298.50] about -[1298.50 --> 1299.48] these sort of -[1299.48 --> 1300.78] extreme and -[1300.78 --> 1301.56] tragic events -[1301.56 --> 1302.54] that god uses -[1302.54 --> 1303.98] to reveal his -[1303.98 --> 1305.00] mercy and peace -[1305.00 --> 1305.86] to us -[1305.86 --> 1306.68] right we call -[1306.68 --> 1307.34] these god's -[1307.34 --> 1308.60] severe mercies -[1308.60 --> 1309.74] jonah for instance -[1309.74 --> 1310.46] knew them -[1310.46 --> 1311.96] right god used -[1311.96 --> 1312.76] the deathly -[1312.76 --> 1313.42] experience -[1313.42 --> 1313.76] of being -[1313.76 --> 1314.38] caught up -[1314.38 --> 1315.10] in the belly -[1315.10 --> 1315.64] of a great -[1315.64 --> 1316.00] fish -[1316.00 --> 1316.82] to correct -[1316.82 --> 1317.10] him -[1317.10 --> 1318.16] right -[1318.16 --> 1318.94] naaman's -[1318.94 --> 1319.76] leprosy -[1319.76 --> 1320.68] was used -[1320.68 --> 1321.14] to bring -[1321.14 --> 1321.94] glory to god -[1321.94 --> 1323.74] there's a podcast -[1323.74 --> 1324.80] that i listened to -[1324.80 --> 1325.30] that said -[1325.30 --> 1326.08] quote -[1326.08 --> 1327.26] in god's -[1327.26 --> 1328.46] severe mercy -[1328.46 --> 1329.58] he may deal -[1329.58 --> 1330.00] with us -[1330.00 --> 1330.48] in ways -[1330.48 --> 1331.22] that bring us -[1331.22 --> 1331.84] to the end -[1331.84 --> 1332.66] of ourselves -[1332.66 --> 1334.12] and we might -[1334.12 --> 1334.56] hate him -[1334.56 --> 1335.04] for it -[1335.04 --> 1337.50] but the paradox -[1337.50 --> 1338.20] of god's -[1338.20 --> 1338.92] severe mercy -[1338.92 --> 1339.70] is this -[1339.70 --> 1340.92] it's that it -[1340.92 --> 1341.40] could be the -[1341.40 --> 1342.28] best thing -[1342.28 --> 1342.68] that ever -[1342.68 --> 1343.46] happens to us -[1343.46 --> 1344.28] because we -[1344.28 --> 1345.02] discover the -[1345.02 --> 1345.74] truth of how -[1345.74 --> 1346.78] broken and -[1346.78 --> 1347.80] selfish we are -[1347.80 --> 1348.66] we discover the -[1348.66 --> 1349.56] truth of how -[1349.56 --> 1350.40] i've been taking -[1350.40 --> 1351.24] my life for -[1351.24 --> 1352.28] granted as if -[1352.28 --> 1353.14] i can do just -[1353.14 --> 1353.96] whatever i want -[1353.96 --> 1354.70] and the only -[1354.70 --> 1355.58] reason i exist -[1355.58 --> 1356.28] is because -[1356.28 --> 1357.12] someone else -[1357.12 --> 1358.12] has made me -[1358.12 --> 1360.80] here's what i -[1360.80 --> 1361.02] know -[1361.02 --> 1362.84] whether it's -[1362.84 --> 1363.58] saving you -[1363.58 --> 1364.42] or preparing -[1364.42 --> 1364.88] you -[1364.88 --> 1366.26] or it's -[1366.26 --> 1366.80] something else -[1366.80 --> 1367.32] altogether -[1367.32 --> 1369.04] whatever you -[1369.04 --> 1369.90] are facing -[1369.90 --> 1371.28] right now -[1371.28 --> 1372.62] will be used -[1372.62 --> 1374.06] for your good -[1374.06 --> 1375.22] and god's -[1375.22 --> 1375.78] glory -[1375.78 --> 1377.38] right this -[1377.38 --> 1378.50] is his promise -[1378.50 --> 1379.48] that our present -[1379.48 --> 1380.36] sufferings are not -[1380.36 --> 1381.12] worth comparing -[1381.12 --> 1381.96] to the glory -[1381.96 --> 1382.48] that will be -[1382.48 --> 1383.32] revealed in us -[1383.32 --> 1384.42] this is god's -[1384.42 --> 1385.26] promise that -[1385.26 --> 1386.02] that we know -[1386.02 --> 1386.56] that in all -[1386.56 --> 1387.46] things god works -[1387.46 --> 1387.96] for the good -[1387.96 --> 1388.56] of those who -[1388.56 --> 1388.98] love him -[1388.98 --> 1389.62] of those who -[1389.62 --> 1390.18] have been called -[1390.18 --> 1390.98] according to his -[1390.98 --> 1391.42] purpose -[1391.42 --> 1393.52] the truth is -[1393.52 --> 1394.38] the trouble is -[1394.38 --> 1395.60] perhaps that on -[1395.60 --> 1396.32] this side of -[1396.32 --> 1397.56] heaven you may -[1397.56 --> 1399.04] never know that -[1399.04 --> 1401.56] purpose and -[1401.56 --> 1403.18] truthfully once we -[1403.18 --> 1404.04] get there or once -[1404.04 --> 1404.88] jesus comes back -[1404.88 --> 1406.16] here i don't think -[1406.16 --> 1409.08] we'll even care but -[1409.08 --> 1411.70] he has one and -[1411.70 --> 1418.34] maybe peace shalom is -[1418.34 --> 1421.12] at times just living -[1421.12 --> 1423.68] like we know that to -[1423.68 --> 1424.12] be true -[1424.12 --> 1427.00] because it is -[1427.00 --> 1428.78] amen -[1428.78 --> 1431.56] let me pray with you -[1431.56 --> 1438.56] lord jesus grant us -[1438.56 --> 1439.46] your -[1439.46 --> 1441.04] peace -[1441.04 --> 1443.88] reveal to us the gift -[1443.88 --> 1446.18] of your mercy that -[1446.18 --> 1447.34] has a straight line -[1447.34 --> 1449.02] to peace here and -[1449.02 --> 1450.26] now in this life -[1450.26 --> 1452.22] life restored and -[1452.22 --> 1453.48] being restored ever -[1453.48 --> 1455.56] more to your intent -[1455.56 --> 1456.62] and design -[1456.62 --> 1460.28] may we be fully -[1460.28 --> 1462.40] human fully alive to -[1462.40 --> 1464.38] the glory of our god -[1464.38 --> 1467.32] god send us out in the -[1467.32 --> 1469.04] power of this truth -[1469.04 --> 1470.82] today that no matter -[1470.82 --> 1472.56] what we face whether -[1472.56 --> 1473.18] it's a moderate -[1473.18 --> 1475.66] inconvenience or it -[1475.66 --> 1476.50] is an incredible -[1476.50 --> 1478.86] life altering trial -[1478.86 --> 1481.20] that we would do so -[1481.20 --> 1483.12] with the confidence -[1483.12 --> 1484.48] that you are good -[1484.48 --> 1487.26] you are god and you -[1487.26 --> 1487.90] have a plan -[1487.90 --> 1492.04] we pray this in jesus name -[1492.04 --> 1493.64] amen -[1493.64 --> 1503.52] would we pray this -[1516.36 --> 1516.64] how topel -[1516.64 --> 1517.30] how topel -[1517.30 --> 1517.80] been -[1517.80 --> 1518.44] when -[1518.44 --> 1519.30] he -[1519.30 --> 1519.56] he -[1519.56 --> 1519.96] he -[1519.96 --> 1520.62] he -[1520.62 --> 1521.46] in diff --git a/Identifying Identity (Sermon)_summary.txt b/Identifying Identity (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ebadd5f04efe2185faa61e59988ef880bc77d0f7..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Identifying Identity (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,33 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction and welcome to 2021 -• Reflection on unmet expectations in 2020 -• Importance of grounding oneself in God's word -• Reading from Luke chapter 2, verses 41-52 about Jesus as a boy in Jerusalem -• Discussion of the story and its relevance to people's experiences -• Personal anecdote about not having lost a child but relating to the story -• Emotional response to Mary and Joseph's experience reuniting with their son -• The trip to Jerusalem was one of three annual pilgrimages for male Israelites -• Jesus, at 12 years old, traveled with his family but got separated from them and spent 3 days in the temple learning from priests and leaders -• Luke doesn't provide details about Jesus' time away from his parents, implying they're not important to the story -• Jesus interacted with teachers and asked questions, showing eagerness to learn and a simplicity of spirit -• The event shows Jesus as a child who learns by asking questions and discovering, rather than being a wise teacher preaching to others -• The story of Jesus at the temple is examined to highlight his divine sonship -• The conversation between Mary and Jesus is crucial, as it shows he knows God is his father -• Jesus' identity is rooted in his relationship with God, making it a permanent and secure foundation -• Rooting one's identity in earthly accomplishments or relationships can lead to an identity crisis when those things are lost -• A secure identity must be rooted in something more permanent than human circumstances. -• The importance of having one's identity rooted in Christ -• The conflict that can arise between God's claims and earthly desires -• Jesus' example of putting God the Father above all else, including family and social standing -• The security and permanence of identifying oneself as a child of God, co-heir to eternal glory with Christ -• The biblical support for this identity from Romans 8 -• Embracing sonship or daughterhood in God's kingdom and its implications for one's life -• The speaker emphasizes that our identity as sons of God is not achieved through good deeds or morality, but rather because of who we are in Christ. -• Our salvation and identity in Christ are secure due to the death and resurrection of Jesus. -• We should root our identities in Christ, not in worldly things like jobs, hobbies, or relationships, which can change with circumstances. -• Our actions and behavior should reflect our identity in Christ. -• Living securely in Christ means being confident that our identities are rooted solely in him, even in the face of uncertainty or adversity. -• Affirming Jesus' divine sonship as a boy -• Recognizing the significance of Jesus' life and actions as being driven by his knowledge of his divinity -• Conviction to acknowledge one's own sonship with Christ through faith in him -• Being rooted in one's identity in Christ -• Living according to their Father's business and doing what they are called to do \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Identifying Identity (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/Identifying Identity (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3b68986883182e84f88936430603d6aed4ecacf1..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Identifying Identity (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,496 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 8.72] Well, welcome everyone to the year 2021. -[9.76 --> 15.06] I think I can speak on all of us when I say, good riddance 2020. -[15.66 --> 20.48] I figured I'd start the year off with a good cool jump kick. -[21.18 --> 23.28] 2020 was supposed to be this cool year. -[23.28 --> 26.46] When I was 10 years old, I figured that in the year 2020, -[26.46 --> 34.62] we would all be working in like flying offices and most of our travel would be done by those tubes that suck you up and just launch you into your next place. -[34.82 --> 37.52] And I would be famous on televisions like across the country. -[38.22 --> 41.66] But instead, 2020 started with my office getting flooded. -[42.44 --> 46.00] My mode of transportation is still just this old dented Toyota matrix. -[46.62 --> 52.54] And most of the year we spent dealing with this pandemic that we're all just a little bit too tired discussing. -[53.26 --> 55.46] But hey, I'm on TV at least, right? -[56.46 --> 60.04] No, all kidding aside, 2020 obviously did not go as planned. -[60.16 --> 63.46] And yet, 2021 is now here. -[64.30 --> 66.32] Time marches on, as they say. -[66.64 --> 71.64] And as we enter into this new calendar year, perhaps very eager to get the old one behind us, -[72.28 --> 77.48] it's important for us to be reminded to ground ourselves in the word of God. -[78.34 --> 85.70] It's God's word where his promises are revealed, where his salvation is declared, and where our hope is restored. -[85.70 --> 90.34] Today, I'd like to read a story that we just heard in Kids Corner. -[90.84 --> 93.84] I'd like to read the story about Jesus as a boy. -[93.92 --> 98.02] It's the only story of little boy Jesus that we have in our Bible. -[98.08 --> 104.62] And I thought since many of us are sort of leaving the Christmas season this week, including the church itself, -[104.62 --> 110.26] it would be cool to look at the first story we have of Jesus post-Christmas. -[110.90 --> 115.44] The story can be found in Luke chapter 2, verses 41 to 52. -[115.70 --> 118.34] It should be on the screen, on your television screens as I read. -[118.40 --> 123.54] But I also want to encourage you, again, pull out your Bibles and follow along in your actual Bibles with you. -[123.58 --> 128.82] Perhaps even grab a notebook or a journal and take some notes today as we look at this story. -[128.82 --> 133.66] If you're not used to doing that, well, it's 2021, and that might be a really good New Year's resolution. -[133.96 --> 137.98] So, Luke 2, verses 41 to 52. -[139.36 --> 140.26] It reads like this. -[140.32 --> 144.84] Every year, Jesus' parents went to Jerusalem for the festival of the Passover. -[145.36 --> 149.24] When he was 12 years old, they went up to the festival according to the customs. -[149.24 --> 157.26] After the festival was over, while his parents were returning home, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. -[157.92 --> 159.14] But they were unaware of it. -[160.26 --> 163.06] Thinking he was in their company, they traveled on for a day. -[163.84 --> 166.86] Then they began looking for him among their relatives and their friends. -[167.88 --> 170.58] When they did not find him, they went back to Jerusalem to look for him. -[170.58 --> 179.38] After three days, they found him in the temple courts, sitting amongst the teachers, listening to them, and asking them questions. -[180.32 --> 183.52] Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers. -[184.38 --> 187.94] When his parents saw him, they were astonished. -[188.70 --> 189.62] His mother said to him, -[190.20 --> 192.76] Son, why have you treated us like this? -[192.80 --> 195.78] Your father and I have been anxiously searching for you. -[197.22 --> 199.08] Why were you searching for me? -[199.08 --> 200.08] He asked. -[200.58 --> 203.58] Didn't you know I had to be in my father's house? -[204.72 --> 207.20] But they did not understand what he was saying to them. -[208.30 --> 211.52] Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. -[211.58 --> 214.32] But his mother treasured all these things in her heart. -[215.04 --> 220.90] And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and with men. -[222.06 --> 223.20] The reading of the word. -[225.30 --> 230.48] Now this would generally be the part of the sermon where the pastor would share this story. -[230.48 --> 234.78] How they too have once lost one of their children. -[235.30 --> 240.66] They would talk about the day that they left their kid behind at church and didn't notice for three days. -[240.82 --> 243.56] And then they went back and they were reunited at last. -[243.64 --> 246.60] And the congregation would cry and applaud the story. -[246.60 --> 249.66] And everyone would be connected just a little bit more to this text. -[249.66 --> 260.78] Well, I can honestly say with my head held high, even arrogantly so, that Nikki and I have never lost one of our children. -[261.62 --> 262.26] Right, Nikki? -[262.26 --> 264.68] Where are they, by the way? -[265.66 --> 266.14] The kids. -[266.22 --> 266.70] Where are the kids? -[267.84 --> 269.10] I thought they were with you. -[269.14 --> 270.26] I didn't know you were doing Kids Corner. -[271.40 --> 272.10] Well, I don't know. -[272.26 --> 273.48] Did we leave some Cheerios out at least? -[274.24 --> 274.66] You know what? -[274.72 --> 276.32] Ruby's very, very capable. -[276.46 --> 276.92] She'll be fine. -[276.92 --> 286.46] So, even though I don't have a personal story about this, I think it's a story that we can all relate to. -[287.70 --> 288.64] I mean, think about it. -[288.66 --> 291.10] Put yourself in Mary or in Joseph's shoes for a minute. -[291.82 --> 295.24] Missing your kid for three days. -[296.00 --> 297.66] That would have been so traumatic. -[297.66 --> 304.28] Then, after days spent traveling, going back to the temple and finally reuniting with your son? -[305.04 --> 307.22] Man, what a relief. -[308.12 --> 317.58] I could picture Mary's face now, just tears changing shape from sadness to joy, being both confused and shocked and relieved all at once. -[318.72 --> 319.54] I mean, what a scene. -[319.60 --> 320.48] It's quite the story. -[322.50 --> 324.92] Losing a kid for three days, that's fascinating. -[326.02 --> 327.12] It's terrifying. -[328.40 --> 334.68] Now, that journey, that journey to the temple that they took, that was nothing unusual for Joseph to do. -[334.76 --> 344.20] In Exodus 34, we read how all the male Israelites were told to go and make that pilgrimage to Jerusalem three times a year for the various feasts. -[344.26 --> 346.40] For Passover, for Pentecost, and for the tabernacles. -[346.70 --> 350.86] Now, this was one of those trips, and the family went along with them. -[351.32 --> 355.42] Jesus went with them as a 12-year-old boy, which is important because he was not 13, -[355.42 --> 358.60] which was the age that you became a man in Jewish custom. -[359.24 --> 364.60] Now, this journey that they walked on was 100, it was actually over 100 kilometers long. -[365.14 --> 367.42] That is a long walk for a family with small kids. -[367.50 --> 372.48] I mean, if you've ever walked four kilometers, even four kilometers, with small children, you know what that's like. -[372.94 --> 374.68] Imagine walking 100 with them. -[374.68 --> 379.24] This group of people that made up Joseph's family also had to have been large. -[379.24 --> 384.76] Because it was so big that Mary and Joseph traveled for a whole day thinking that he was in their company. -[385.66 --> 386.92] It actually got me thinking a little bit. -[387.28 --> 393.08] The biggest Mexico missions trip that I've ever been on with this church was done pretty quick when I got here. -[393.30 --> 395.00] And that was 50 people large. -[395.10 --> 401.10] There was 37 youth and 13 leaders trucking all the way down across two borders all the way to Tijuana. -[401.98 --> 404.46] And not one person in that group was over the age of 30. -[404.46 --> 412.76] So you can all believe me when I say, in a group that size, it is very, very easy to forget a couple of kids here and there. -[413.46 --> 414.36] They get lost in the shuffle. -[415.34 --> 415.68] I'm kidding. -[416.12 --> 416.54] I'm kidding. -[416.68 --> 417.62] All those youth came home. -[418.18 --> 422.24] We always have rigorous buddy systems and thorough van checks, and they all came home that year. -[422.92 --> 424.20] Please keep sending your kids to youth. -[424.68 --> 425.08] I digress. -[425.18 --> 429.98] All of this today, while Jesus being lost for three days is fascinating, -[429.98 --> 436.02] and it's central to this story, is not the actual point of this story. -[436.82 --> 441.10] Notice in our text today, Luke actually doesn't go into much detail about Jesus being absent. -[441.34 --> 442.32] Just that it happened. -[442.96 --> 444.68] We don't know where Jesus would have eaten. -[444.82 --> 446.22] We don't know where he would have slept. -[446.48 --> 449.66] We don't know how he would have functioned for three days without his parents. -[450.18 --> 453.38] And the reason we don't know these details is because Luke doesn't mention them, -[453.44 --> 455.22] because they don't matter to the story. -[455.22 --> 460.82] While it's fascinating to think about, the details of him being lost aren't the point. -[462.48 --> 467.58] Just that he was left alone in the temple for three days or so. -[468.50 --> 470.98] And that's another fascinating point of this story, isn't it? -[471.02 --> 477.04] Jesus hung out with priests and religious leaders for three days as a 12-year-old boy. -[478.36 --> 482.60] Notice, though, what Jesus did amongst these scholars. -[483.30 --> 485.18] Verse 46, read it along with me. -[485.22 --> 488.06] After three days, they, which is Mary and Joseph, -[488.50 --> 491.40] after three days they found him in the temple courts, -[492.22 --> 498.08] sitting amongst the teachers, listening to them, and asking them questions. -[500.22 --> 502.76] For those of us who have heard this story before, -[503.14 --> 505.96] I think the picture we sometimes mentally paint -[505.96 --> 509.66] is that Jesus is standing there preaching to these religious leaders. -[509.66 --> 512.82] We have this idea of Jesus standing on a pedestal of sorts, -[512.82 --> 516.06] waving his hands and wagging his fingers at all these leaders, -[516.06 --> 520.32] and these religious leaders sitting there, wide-eyed, hands on their fists, -[520.54 --> 522.76] just absorbing what Jesus is saying. -[523.88 --> 525.80] But that's not what Luke describes here. -[527.24 --> 530.30] According to Luke, Jesus was there, but he was sitting. -[531.10 --> 532.38] He was the one asking. -[532.54 --> 533.62] He was the one learning. -[533.62 --> 538.48] He wanted to grow and understand and hear the teachers. -[539.48 --> 543.00] Luke tells us that Jesus went with this eagerness to learn, -[543.52 --> 545.68] perhaps even with a simplicity of spirit. -[547.12 --> 548.26] He was still a boy. -[548.34 --> 549.34] He was still studying. -[549.34 --> 553.22] In most Bibles, the title to this text, -[553.32 --> 554.74] perhaps even in yours at home you can look, -[554.94 --> 556.12] the title to this text is -[556.12 --> 558.42] The Boy Jesus Teaching in the Temple. -[559.80 --> 561.76] But really, a more accurate title would be -[561.76 --> 564.84] The Boy Jesus Learning in the Temple. -[566.92 --> 567.80] Jesus was a kid. -[567.88 --> 569.92] He was learning as kids learn, -[569.98 --> 571.08] by asking questions, -[571.80 --> 572.60] and by discovering. -[573.14 --> 575.14] Now, he was wise. -[575.14 --> 579.36] The teachers were amazed at his questions, we read. -[579.42 --> 581.72] They were amazed at his understanding. -[582.08 --> 583.86] They were amazed at his answer. -[584.94 --> 588.80] Jesus was wise, and his wisdom grew as he did. -[590.92 --> 592.82] Another thing that's crazy, if you think about it, -[592.84 --> 594.22] is that this group of leaders -[594.22 --> 597.82] that were so amazed by this 12-year-old boy -[597.82 --> 600.62] would end up being the same group of leaders -[600.62 --> 602.40] that wanted him nailed to that cross. -[605.14 --> 606.22] But brothers and sisters, -[607.36 --> 609.64] that's not even the point of this story. -[610.74 --> 614.64] This is not a story of a lost boy or a wise child. -[615.78 --> 617.88] We find the point of this story -[617.88 --> 622.12] where the narration ends and the dialogue begins. -[623.50 --> 627.48] Verses 48 and 49 become the climax of this story, -[627.58 --> 629.50] and it's this little back and forth -[629.50 --> 631.40] between Mary and Jesus -[631.40 --> 634.18] that becomes so important for us today, -[634.18 --> 637.58] even as we begin the year 2021 together. -[638.50 --> 639.92] Read those two verses with me. -[640.16 --> 642.28] Verses 48 and 49. -[642.68 --> 643.08] They say, -[643.46 --> 644.90] When his parents saw him, -[645.32 --> 646.62] they were astonished. -[647.44 --> 648.48] His mother said to him, -[648.88 --> 651.74] Son, why have you treated us like this? -[652.04 --> 653.16] Your father and I -[653.16 --> 655.40] have been anxiously searching for you. -[657.64 --> 659.34] Why were you searching for me? -[660.02 --> 660.84] Jesus asks. -[660.84 --> 665.42] Didn't you know I had to be about my father's business? -[665.86 --> 669.00] Didn't you know I had to be in my father's house? -[669.48 --> 669.94] That's it. -[670.14 --> 671.70] That's the central cog to the story. -[671.98 --> 673.88] The piece that is so important for us today. -[674.30 --> 674.70] Mary says, -[674.78 --> 675.82] Why did you stay behind? -[676.14 --> 676.84] Your father and I, -[676.90 --> 677.80] we were so worried. -[678.16 --> 678.74] And Jesus says, -[678.78 --> 679.44] Why were you worried? -[680.54 --> 682.44] Didn't you know I had to be in my father's house? -[683.02 --> 684.28] Or some translations say, -[684.44 --> 686.38] Didn't you know I had to be about my father's business? -[686.38 --> 690.64] Whether it was his father's house or his father's business, -[690.82 --> 692.38] doesn't matter so much. -[692.46 --> 696.74] What's important is that the 12-year-old boy, -[697.14 --> 697.50] Jesus, -[698.12 --> 702.90] acknowledged that his father was God. -[702.90 --> 706.40] This was a boy, yes. -[706.60 --> 711.04] But it was a boy that knew that God was his father. -[712.24 --> 716.78] This passage is about Jesus' divine sonship, -[716.90 --> 718.14] more than anything else. -[718.86 --> 722.22] It's not necessarily about Mary and Joseph's forgetting Jesus at the temple. -[722.48 --> 725.84] It's not necessarily about Jesus' learning at the feet of the Jewish leaders. -[726.06 --> 729.30] And it's not necessarily about the Jewish leaders' response -[729.30 --> 731.16] and amazement at Jesus' wisdom. -[731.16 --> 735.28] All of those things are important and lead to this moment, -[735.48 --> 738.98] this little conversation between Jesus and Mary, -[739.40 --> 745.10] this little but crucial moment where Jesus announces that God is his father -[745.10 --> 752.92] and that his identity is rooted in the fact that he is God's son. -[755.34 --> 759.56] In fact, the words that Jesus speaks in this passage here -[759.56 --> 763.58] are the first recorded words of Jesus that we have in our Bibles. -[764.66 --> 769.06] Everything he does from this point on is guided by these words. -[770.68 --> 773.32] His life, as exemplified in this story, -[773.38 --> 779.28] was completely directed by the unique relationship that he had with God his father. -[779.28 --> 787.54] Jesus was fully human, but he was also fully cognizant that God was his father. -[789.18 --> 795.12] Jesus' identity was rooted in his divine sonship. -[795.12 --> 797.12] Jesus' identity was rooted in his father. -[797.12 --> 798.64] So what about you? -[800.00 --> 803.90] What is your identity rooted in? -[806.40 --> 811.66] I think often we root our identities in the accomplishments that we've achieved, -[811.90 --> 813.38] in the things that we do. -[813.38 --> 819.14] I am Kevin, youth pastor at Langley Emanuel CRC, student at Acts Seminary, -[819.62 --> 822.10] co-founder of Reactivate Youth Conference. -[823.16 --> 825.20] The things we do, the accomplishments we have. -[826.14 --> 830.14] Other times we root our identities in our earthly relationships, right? -[830.22 --> 833.38] I am Kevin, son of Murray and Helen, brother of Dennis and Justine, -[833.70 --> 835.76] husband of Nicky, father of Eden, Isla Ruby. -[835.76 --> 842.98] There's a problem with rooting our identities in the things we achieve -[842.98 --> 845.20] or in the people that we love. -[846.64 --> 848.98] The problem is those things are finite. -[850.68 --> 854.84] If I'm no longer the youth pastor here, am I still Kevin? -[856.42 --> 859.68] If Reactivate doesn't happen, am I still Kevin? -[859.68 --> 859.78] Kevin? -[859.78 --> 866.94] If the relationships I have with my family or my friends suddenly end, -[867.02 --> 870.96] if my parents or my spouse suddenly and sadly pass away, -[871.34 --> 872.82] am I still me? -[876.94 --> 879.76] If we root our identities in these earthly things, -[879.82 --> 881.60] when life's turbulence hits, -[881.80 --> 884.54] as it did for so many of us last year in 2020, -[885.40 --> 888.40] the danger is our identities start to waver too. -[888.40 --> 893.22] When that happens, we find ourselves in the middle of an identity crisis. -[894.72 --> 896.28] Brothers and sisters, our identities, -[896.46 --> 900.60] they need to be rooted in something so much more secure -[900.60 --> 904.10] and something way more permanent than the things we do -[904.10 --> 907.86] or the worldviews we have or the people that we love. -[908.96 --> 910.64] I know that that sounds maybe a bit harsh, -[910.98 --> 913.94] but it's the example Jesus sets for us here in this story. -[914.32 --> 916.94] His identity was not part of Mary and Joseph's family. -[916.94 --> 922.70] But that he was God's son and he was about his father's business. -[924.86 --> 927.86] Our identities need to be rooted in Christ. -[929.38 --> 932.32] Now perhaps many of you long-time Christians have heard this before, -[932.34 --> 934.82] and this answer, it might not be the big punch to the gut -[934.82 --> 937.06] that maybe some of you desire in a sermon, -[937.06 --> 940.14] but I hope that the magnitude of this truth -[940.14 --> 944.22] just may sink in a little bit deeper for you today. -[945.22 --> 947.70] Your identity is in Christ. -[948.08 --> 951.32] You are a child of the living God. -[951.44 --> 954.32] God has claimed you as his own. -[954.32 --> 958.64] Sometimes this can be challenging. -[958.76 --> 960.48] This can be hard because God's claims -[960.48 --> 964.40] can stand in open conflict with your earthly desires. -[964.54 --> 967.04] Sometimes God's claim on your life -[967.04 --> 969.48] will affect your loyalty to your family -[969.48 --> 971.56] or your social standing -[971.56 --> 973.62] or your economic prosperity. -[975.20 --> 978.86] Sometimes that's the cost of belonging to God. -[978.86 --> 983.62] Jesus here puts God the Father above all, -[984.50 --> 985.54] including his own mother. -[986.50 --> 988.72] And by doing so, he shows the world -[988.72 --> 990.62] who his identity is rooted in -[990.62 --> 993.06] and sets an example for us all to follow. -[994.82 --> 998.30] Notice his love and his obedience for his mother do not change. -[998.30 --> 1003.08] But God is still who he roots his identity in. -[1004.52 --> 1006.58] Your identity is not the job you do. -[1006.84 --> 1008.28] It's not the school you go to. -[1008.42 --> 1010.96] Not the things you know, the hobbies you partake in, -[1011.14 --> 1013.60] or even the family or the friends that you have. -[1013.86 --> 1016.50] Your identity isn't found traveling the world -[1016.50 --> 1019.78] or rebelling against some social system that you disagree with. -[1020.14 --> 1021.22] Jobs change. -[1021.64 --> 1023.38] Schools finish one way or the other. -[1023.78 --> 1025.58] Hobbies come and hobbies go. -[1025.92 --> 1026.94] Trips get canceled. -[1026.94 --> 1028.80] Picket lines end. -[1029.70 --> 1033.42] Your identity is so much more secure than that. -[1035.02 --> 1036.94] Your identity is in Christ. -[1037.68 --> 1039.40] You are a child of God, -[1039.70 --> 1041.06] created in his image -[1041.06 --> 1046.10] and co-heirs to the eternal glory with Christ. -[1048.74 --> 1049.58] Romans 8, -[1049.64 --> 1051.58] For those who are led by the Spirit of God -[1051.58 --> 1054.28] are the children of God. -[1054.58 --> 1056.74] The Spirit you receive does not make you slaves -[1056.74 --> 1057.98] so that you live in fear again. -[1057.98 --> 1064.02] Rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. -[1064.78 --> 1065.84] And by him we cry, -[1066.04 --> 1066.94] Abba, Father, -[1067.02 --> 1068.48] which we sang earlier today. -[1069.20 --> 1071.58] The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit -[1071.58 --> 1074.40] that we are God's children. -[1074.40 --> 1076.54] Now, if we are children, -[1076.54 --> 1078.10] then we are heirs. -[1078.60 --> 1082.34] Heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ. -[1083.04 --> 1089.32] If indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. -[1089.32 --> 1093.58] That's the truth that Paul proclaims in Romans 8. -[1095.42 --> 1098.88] Our identities are rooted in Christ, -[1098.96 --> 1102.88] meaning we share in his glory. -[1102.88 --> 1107.58] We are all sons of God, -[1107.68 --> 1109.54] adopted into sonship, -[1109.94 --> 1111.38] as Romans puts it. -[1111.82 --> 1112.34] Now, just quickly, -[1112.44 --> 1114.74] for those of you who want me to say we are sons and daughters of God, -[1115.24 --> 1117.64] that does God's inheritance a bit of a disservice. -[1117.78 --> 1118.58] Back when this was written, -[1119.02 --> 1122.24] firstborn sons were the ones who inherited what the Father rules over. -[1122.24 --> 1124.14] And so when God calls all of us, -[1124.58 --> 1126.22] brothers and sisters alike, -[1126.78 --> 1127.48] his sons, -[1127.88 --> 1129.68] and adopt us into his sonship, -[1130.78 --> 1134.68] that means we are all co-heirs with Christ, -[1135.10 --> 1137.46] of God's eternal inheritance. -[1137.90 --> 1141.22] Just like men need to be okay with being the bride of Christ, -[1141.54 --> 1146.46] women embrace that you are being adopted into the sonship with God. -[1147.10 --> 1149.66] And when we embrace that identity, -[1149.66 --> 1152.98] all the eternal glory that comes with it, -[1154.12 --> 1157.46] our identities are rooted into something so much greater -[1157.46 --> 1159.12] and so much more permanent -[1159.12 --> 1161.50] that it will never waver. -[1161.92 --> 1163.08] It will never end. -[1163.12 --> 1163.70] It is forever. -[1164.16 --> 1164.98] More than your work, -[1165.10 --> 1165.88] more than your school, -[1166.60 --> 1167.36] more than your trips, -[1168.10 --> 1168.86] more than your family. -[1170.08 --> 1171.18] That's why Jesus, -[1171.82 --> 1172.56] little Jesus, -[1172.72 --> 1173.72] 12-year-old Jesus, -[1174.16 --> 1176.48] can look his mother in the eye and simply say, -[1177.24 --> 1178.20] didn't you know -[1178.20 --> 1181.14] I had to be about my Father's business? -[1184.42 --> 1186.52] We too need to be about our Father's business, -[1186.62 --> 1186.92] don't we? -[1186.96 --> 1189.18] Not necessarily because he commands us to, -[1189.88 --> 1190.78] though that is true, -[1191.46 --> 1194.52] but because we are sons of God. -[1194.60 --> 1196.80] We are co-heirs with Christ. -[1197.54 --> 1198.78] That is who we are. -[1199.88 --> 1201.02] That's our identity. -[1201.26 --> 1202.76] That means that the things we do, -[1202.76 --> 1206.26] we do not do because we are morally obliged to do them, -[1206.58 --> 1210.72] but rather it's because it is who we are. -[1211.60 --> 1213.82] It is because of who we are -[1213.82 --> 1215.82] that we should live the lives of love, -[1215.94 --> 1217.88] that we should live lives seeking justice -[1217.88 --> 1219.10] or loving mercy, -[1219.46 --> 1220.50] forgiving others. -[1220.80 --> 1222.96] We are to go and make disciples of all nations. -[1223.10 --> 1224.54] We're to pray and to teach -[1224.54 --> 1226.82] and to live our lives under the umbrella -[1226.82 --> 1230.40] that we belong to God. -[1230.40 --> 1234.10] We must be about our Father's business -[1234.10 --> 1235.72] because that's who we are. -[1238.08 --> 1238.64] Furthermore, -[1239.44 --> 1241.22] our identities in Christ -[1241.22 --> 1242.72] are not something that we achieve. -[1243.62 --> 1245.38] We don't do anything for them. -[1246.50 --> 1248.52] Rather, they're something that we have received -[1248.52 --> 1250.94] through the grace, mercy, and love -[1250.94 --> 1251.84] of Christ -[1251.84 --> 1254.00] and his death and his resurrection. -[1255.18 --> 1256.86] The only thing we contributed -[1256.86 --> 1258.56] to that salvation that we received -[1258.56 --> 1259.96] was our sin. -[1259.96 --> 1263.54] And Christ defeated that once and for all -[1263.54 --> 1265.86] when he broke forth from the tomb. -[1266.70 --> 1270.22] Our salvation in Christ is secure, -[1270.82 --> 1273.74] which means we can rest assured -[1273.74 --> 1275.66] that our identities in him -[1275.66 --> 1277.44] are equally secure. -[1279.80 --> 1281.06] Brothers and sisters, -[1281.44 --> 1282.92] Jesus acknowledged his identity, -[1283.10 --> 1283.64] his purpose, -[1283.96 --> 1284.56] his mission -[1284.56 --> 1287.90] by affirming his sonship to God. -[1287.90 --> 1290.16] May we do the same. -[1290.90 --> 1292.54] May we affirm that we are sons of God -[1292.54 --> 1295.48] and that we belong both body and soul -[1295.48 --> 1297.46] in life and in death -[1297.46 --> 1299.60] to our faithful Savior, -[1300.06 --> 1300.90] Jesus Christ, -[1301.56 --> 1303.82] which again we read this morning together. -[1304.88 --> 1305.78] So to close, -[1306.02 --> 1307.42] let us not root our identities -[1307.42 --> 1308.58] in the things of this world. -[1308.94 --> 1310.56] Your identity should not be built -[1310.56 --> 1312.14] on the foundation of your job -[1312.14 --> 1314.16] or the hobbies that you partake in -[1314.16 --> 1315.98] or the relations you have in this world -[1315.98 --> 1317.88] because those things can change -[1317.88 --> 1319.00] with the tides. -[1320.06 --> 1321.60] Instead, know that your identity -[1321.60 --> 1323.26] is rooted in Christ -[1323.26 --> 1325.08] and the eternal glory -[1325.08 --> 1327.18] that he obtained with his death -[1327.18 --> 1328.48] and his resurrection. -[1329.24 --> 1331.12] That is forever. -[1331.12 --> 1334.62] And in that knowledge, -[1335.02 --> 1336.36] let us live our lives -[1336.36 --> 1337.66] knowing who we are, -[1338.46 --> 1340.22] sons of the living God. -[1341.22 --> 1342.46] May our actions, -[1342.62 --> 1343.96] our comings and our goings, -[1344.00 --> 1344.52] our speaking, -[1344.70 --> 1345.16] our listening, -[1345.28 --> 1346.08] our thinking, -[1347.08 --> 1348.08] may it all reflect -[1348.08 --> 1349.28] our identity in Christ. -[1350.48 --> 1351.90] And may we live this out -[1351.90 --> 1352.54] in the world -[1352.54 --> 1354.08] that we have been placed in. -[1355.44 --> 1356.00] That way, -[1356.08 --> 1358.90] no matter what 2021 may bring, -[1358.90 --> 1360.84] when we go about -[1360.84 --> 1361.80] our Father's business, -[1361.94 --> 1363.76] confident that our identities -[1363.76 --> 1365.30] are rooted solely in him -[1365.30 --> 1366.96] and his promises to us, -[1367.70 --> 1368.76] no surprises, -[1368.96 --> 1369.50] no losses, -[1369.64 --> 1370.38] no pandemic -[1370.38 --> 1372.70] can uproot us -[1372.70 --> 1374.44] from that. -[1375.44 --> 1377.54] We can live secure. -[1377.80 --> 1379.72] We can die secure -[1379.72 --> 1381.72] knowing that we belong -[1381.72 --> 1383.56] both body and soul -[1383.56 --> 1386.02] in life and in death -[1386.02 --> 1387.34] to Christ, -[1387.84 --> 1388.48] our Savior. -[1389.76 --> 1390.92] And if anything, -[1391.44 --> 1394.56] on this third day of 2021, -[1394.98 --> 1396.62] we can remember this, -[1397.36 --> 1398.28] that truly, -[1399.16 --> 1400.98] that is our only comfort -[1400.98 --> 1403.90] in life and in death. -[1404.42 --> 1404.66] Amen. -[1405.00 --> 1405.94] Please let me pray with you. -[1408.68 --> 1409.74] Father in heaven, -[1410.02 --> 1410.82] we are grateful -[1410.82 --> 1411.90] for this text today, -[1412.14 --> 1413.36] grateful for this story -[1413.36 --> 1415.00] of Jesus as a boy -[1415.00 --> 1418.36] affirming his divine sonship. -[1418.36 --> 1419.58] And Lord, -[1419.64 --> 1420.56] everything he did -[1420.56 --> 1421.36] in his life -[1421.36 --> 1423.20] was out of that knowledge -[1423.20 --> 1424.20] that he was your son. -[1425.52 --> 1425.98] God, -[1426.04 --> 1426.92] may we be convicted -[1426.92 --> 1427.50] of this same. -[1427.58 --> 1428.58] May we acknowledge -[1428.58 --> 1429.86] our sonship, -[1429.92 --> 1430.82] that we are co-heirs -[1430.82 --> 1431.42] with Christ -[1431.42 --> 1432.84] because of what he did -[1432.84 --> 1434.08] on the cross -[1434.08 --> 1435.34] and coming forth -[1435.34 --> 1435.90] from the tomb, -[1435.98 --> 1437.24] that we are co-heirs -[1437.24 --> 1437.82] with him. -[1437.82 --> 1441.30] Lord, -[1441.36 --> 1441.94] may we root -[1441.94 --> 1442.76] our identities -[1442.76 --> 1443.88] in that knowledge, -[1444.10 --> 1445.18] root our identities -[1445.18 --> 1446.22] in Christ, -[1447.12 --> 1448.04] and may we -[1448.04 --> 1449.62] be about our -[1449.62 --> 1450.36] Father's business -[1450.36 --> 1451.04] in this world. -[1451.16 --> 1452.02] May we go out -[1452.02 --> 1453.42] knowing that is who we are -[1453.42 --> 1454.52] and we do the things -[1454.52 --> 1455.80] that you call us to do -[1455.80 --> 1456.80] because of our identities. -[1457.86 --> 1458.84] And may that -[1458.84 --> 1459.86] not shake us -[1459.86 --> 1461.18] no matter what -[1461.18 --> 1462.72] 2021 throws at us. -[1462.72 --> 1463.78] We pray this all -[1463.78 --> 1464.62] in your son's -[1464.62 --> 1466.36] precious and holy name. -[1467.30 --> 1467.62] Amen. diff --git a/It Ain't Over Yet (Sermon)_summary.txt b/It Ain't Over Yet (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 9d3e5d7a0341bc5543a8ebb949d5cb7b280b2e0d..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/It Ain't Over Yet (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,38 +0,0 @@ -• The reading and explanation of Psalm 148 -• Discussion of the liturgical calendar and Christmas season duration -• Theological significance of continuing to celebrate Christmas in the church beyond December 25th -• Analysis of the psalm's main theme: praising God through creation and humanity -• Call to worship and singing, with emphasis on the command to praise God. -• The call to worship God is a special call for God's chosen people, his church -• Psalm 148 has a clear structure with four verses and a chorus in each section, mirroring the days of creation in Genesis 1 -• The psalmist calls on all creation to praise God, including angels, heavens, waters, mountains, hills, fruit trees, cedars, sun, moon, stars, and oceans -• The parallel between Psalm 148 and Genesis 1 highlights that everything created is called to worship or praise God -• Creation is called to praise God, including sea creatures, birds, animals, and humans -• Psalm 148 describes the universal praise of God by all creation, from kings to children -• Theologian D.A. Carson's quote emphasizes God's goodness and greatness in creation -• Humanity has a special call to praise God, but the church has an extra special call -• God is praiseworthy because of who he is, not just for what he has done -• God's worthiness of worship is not dependent on human existence or achievement -• Worship is not just a command, but also a beautiful response to God's majesty. -• People are drawn to God without necessarily realizing it. -• Creation sings the glory of God's name and nature. -• Humanity has a universal desire to worship God, even if they don't admit or know it. -• This longing is often filled with things, people, or pursuits that cannot satisfy it. -• The church, as God's chosen people, has an extra special call to worship him through faith. -• Worship is not just limited to church services, but should be a life of praise and adoration to God. -• The importance of praising God in all aspects of life -• Worshiping God not just on Sundays, but everywhere and every day -• Recognizing the weariness and struggle that can make worship difficult -• Acknowledging that worship is possible only through God's enabling and provision -• Understanding that God has made provision for our weakness and sin -• The priest Zachariah's statement about Jesus at his circumcision naming day -• Connection of Jesus as "a horn of salvation" who makes worship possible -• God's greatness in calling people to worship and raising up a symbol of a king for praise -• Living on this side of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection -• The ultimate king in the line of David is Jesus -• Worshiping with particular intensity due to knowing Jesus who lived, died, and rose victorious over sin and death -• Singing with angels (Luke 2 and Revelation 4:8-11) -• Worshiping Jesus through prayer, music, and song -• Created to worship God -• Joining in the universal praise of creation -• Calling for a mighty army to sing praise to God \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/It Ain't Over Yet (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/It Ain't Over Yet (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index fb26ca1b5ac0a2b9ffd41ced81c11b52abad323f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/It Ain't Over Yet (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,703 +0,0 @@ -[1.00 --> 11.22] We're going to continue our worship by reading together from Psalm 148 and then spending some time in that text. -[11.32 --> 17.34] If you have a Bible handy, I would invite you to open that up to Psalm 148 or on your phone or device -[17.34 --> 24.30] and have that in front of you as we will look pretty closely at a few verses going through that psalm. -[24.30 --> 31.46] With Psalm 148 open before us, let me pray before I read. -[34.60 --> 43.16] Lord God, we come to your word and we cry out saying, speak to us today. -[44.28 --> 48.26] Speak to our hearts with the beauty of your glory. -[48.26 --> 55.40] Make much of yourself in our midst through your word that our hearts might sing. -[56.70 --> 62.10] May we join with all of creation and all the angels in singing your praises today. -[62.30 --> 66.10] In Christ Jesus alone we pray. Amen. -[69.08 --> 72.10] This is Psalm 148. -[72.10 --> 75.56] Praise the Lord. -[76.24 --> 77.90] Praise the Lord from the heavens. -[78.22 --> 80.24] Praise him from the heights above. -[81.18 --> 82.80] Praise him, all his angels. -[83.06 --> 85.12] Praise him, all his heavenly hosts. -[85.66 --> 87.32] Praise him, sun and moon. -[88.04 --> 89.92] Praise him, all you shining stars. -[90.60 --> 95.16] Praise him, you highest heavens and you waters above the skies. -[95.58 --> 100.20] Let them praise the name of the Lord for he commanded and they were created. -[100.20 --> 103.90] He set them in place forever and ever. -[104.34 --> 106.94] He gave a decree that will never pass away. -[108.00 --> 112.62] Praise the Lord from the earth, you great sea creatures and all ocean depths, -[113.24 --> 118.38] lightning and hail, snow and clouds, stormy winds that do his bidding, -[118.80 --> 122.28] you mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars, -[122.72 --> 126.06] wild animals and all cattle, small creatures and flying birds, -[126.48 --> 128.40] kings of the earth and all nations, -[128.40 --> 135.14] you princes and all rulers on earth, young men and maiden, old men and children. -[136.14 --> 143.14] Let them praise the name of the Lord for his name alone is exalted. -[144.36 --> 147.54] His splendor is above the earth and the heavens. -[147.54 --> 151.50] He has raised up for his people a horn. -[152.50 --> 158.70] The praise of all his saints of Israel, the people close to his heart. -[159.56 --> 161.28] Praise the Lord. -[162.04 --> 163.40] This is the word of the Lord. -[163.40 --> 173.16] In many ways, I love the Sunday after Christmas. -[174.04 --> 180.66] Quickly, the rest of our culture and society sort of moves on to the next thing, right? -[181.04 --> 185.14] Immediately after Christmas, Boxing Day appears for a blip, -[185.26 --> 186.66] although it used to be Boxing Day. -[186.66 --> 188.86] Now it's Boxing Week, it seems. -[190.06 --> 195.66] But even quickly after that, we move into New Year's Eve celebrations and the like. -[195.74 --> 200.24] People leave Christmas behind almost as fast as it appears after Thanksgiving. -[201.82 --> 206.74] Or maybe Halloween, depending on your order of life together. -[206.74 --> 215.42] I have a friend back home in Ontario who makes much every week or every year on Boxing Day -[215.42 --> 220.14] of taking the Christmas tree out, bringing it to the back 40, and burning it as quickly as he can. -[220.98 --> 223.08] Christmas comes and it leaves. -[223.96 --> 225.22] But not in the church. -[226.46 --> 231.98] Technically speaking, if we follow the liturgical calendar, the common lectionary, -[231.98 --> 236.82] Christmas lasts for the two Sundays that follow December 25, -[237.12 --> 239.62] whatever that happens to be in that calendar year. -[239.72 --> 241.98] And so this year, that's through January 3rd. -[242.98 --> 248.62] Now Christmas works out to a roughly two-week season that follows the season of Advent. -[248.92 --> 254.46] As Mike was saying earlier, Advent is that season full of expectation and longing and waiting. -[254.92 --> 257.68] And then you have Christmas, which lasts for about two weeks, -[257.68 --> 261.04] and that's followed by the season of Epiphany, right? -[261.04 --> 265.14] It's the season of the revelation of Christ to the Gentiles. -[265.18 --> 268.92] And that traditionally starts with the visit of the Magi, right? -[268.98 --> 271.90] Epiphany means to reveal or to display. -[272.74 --> 278.66] My point is, theologically or liturgically, it's still Christmas around here. -[279.88 --> 288.16] And that means that we can be extra intentional in our marveling at the majesty of the incarnation, right? -[288.16 --> 293.50] To be still amazed at the beauty of Emmanuel, God with us. -[295.20 --> 302.04] If you joined us for our Christmas Day service, the last words that I spoke in that service are, -[302.22 --> 308.28] in fact, the last words that we heard and have been hearing from the angels spoken to the shepherds, -[308.38 --> 311.04] our Emmanuel kids' memory work all month long. -[311.04 --> 315.40] And the last song that we sang was glory to God, right? -[315.44 --> 318.88] We sang the song of the angels at the birth of Jesus. -[319.10 --> 326.48] This morning, using Psalm 148, we're going to continue singing praise. -[326.48 --> 330.64] Now, if you read along with me there, you saw it on the screen. -[330.78 --> 335.38] Psalm 148 is pretty simple in its main theme, right? -[335.42 --> 339.58] It's easy enough to see if you just look quickly at the verses. -[339.84 --> 345.36] Ten times you get the imperative, you get the command to praise the Lord in the text. -[345.44 --> 347.36] In Hebrew, that's hallelujah. -[348.18 --> 349.30] Sounds familiar, right? -[349.30 --> 352.12] Most of us know the word hallelujah, right? -[352.28 --> 356.92] And then in addition to that, there are two more instances of incomplete verbs, -[356.98 --> 360.20] of future tense verbs that will say they will praise the name of the Lord. -[360.52 --> 363.66] Now, obviously, this psalm then is a call to praise. -[363.82 --> 364.86] It's a command to sing. -[364.94 --> 365.86] It's a call to worship. -[366.02 --> 372.90] And so as we go through Psalm 148, we're going to see three distinct things. -[372.90 --> 381.96] First, we will see that all creation is and will praise the Lord God for who he is, right? -[382.06 --> 386.62] And as a result of that, we are commanded to do so. -[387.76 --> 394.70] At the crown of creation then, number two, humanity has a special call to praise the Lord. -[394.70 --> 405.20] But the jewel in that crown, that's God's chosen people, his church, have an extra special call to worship God. -[405.88 --> 414.14] And then finally, we will land with this ladder, this call to worship God is made truly and obediently possible -[414.14 --> 418.98] because God will raise up a horn for his people. -[418.98 --> 425.70] And a horn that we know is not a trumpet, but it is Jesus. -[426.94 --> 428.36] And so let's start with the first. -[429.32 --> 433.38] That all creation is called to praise God. -[434.40 --> 438.26] Now look at the whole text, and this is why I wanted you to have it in front of you. -[438.50 --> 447.98] There is a clear and sporadic structure, or clear and specific structure, to the whole of the text here. -[447.98 --> 451.60] There are four verses and then a chorus that begins with, -[452.04 --> 454.48] let them praise the name of the Lord for two verses. -[454.88 --> 459.02] And then there are another section of six verses and a chorus that begins, -[459.20 --> 460.86] let them praise the name of the Lord. -[461.48 --> 467.86] Now in each major section, you get every day of the creation story. -[469.04 --> 474.00] I want to suggest to you this morning that the psalmist has in mind, -[474.00 --> 481.56] when he writes this call to praise, he has in mind the story of creation from Genesis 1. -[482.22 --> 484.44] Now there's some pretty clear parallels here, and let me show you. -[484.48 --> 488.06] If you have Bibles in front of you, you can quickly jump to Genesis 1. -[488.44 --> 490.38] That's the very first chapter in the Bible. -[490.52 --> 492.40] It's the story of God creating the world. -[493.12 --> 496.10] If you don't have a Bible, or if you want to just see the connections explicitly, -[496.10 --> 499.58] we've put together a graphic to help us see that, -[499.66 --> 503.50] and that will appear on your screens right now, or in a second or so, -[504.30 --> 505.26] and we can see it. -[506.14 --> 507.72] Genesis 1 begins, -[507.72 --> 512.28] In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. -[513.00 --> 517.14] Now the earth was formless and empty, and darkness was over the surface of the deep, -[517.20 --> 520.46] and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. -[521.38 --> 522.54] And God said, -[522.90 --> 525.28] Let there be light, and there was light. -[525.72 --> 529.28] And God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness. -[529.74 --> 533.40] God called the light day, and the darkness he called night. -[533.80 --> 537.14] And there was evening, and there was morning, the first day. -[538.54 --> 545.54] Now that story of creation starts with a sort of nebulous unknown of chaos churning, right? -[545.56 --> 547.52] It's formless and empty. -[547.52 --> 552.94] There's a darkness that is over the deep, and the Spirit of God is over the waters. -[553.62 --> 555.28] Now I don't know exactly what that is. -[555.32 --> 557.04] I don't think anyone really does. -[557.32 --> 563.34] But into that formless and void chaos, God speaks, and creation is born. -[564.52 --> 567.66] Now verse 1 of Psalm 148 says, -[567.72 --> 570.52] Praise Him from the heavens, or sky. -[570.98 --> 574.78] Praise Him in the heights above, or another way to translate that is high places. -[575.18 --> 580.54] The Spirit of God is hovering over whatever that is in the heights above. -[581.38 --> 587.66] And in this story, you even get prehistory, still created, but prehistory being called to praise God. -[588.22 --> 588.86] The psalm says, -[588.86 --> 590.66] Praise Him, all His angels. -[591.40 --> 596.18] But the point is that everything that is not God is created, even the angels, -[596.18 --> 601.86] and everything that is not God is called to worship or praise God. -[603.58 --> 606.78] Now in the Genesis story, on day two, you read, -[606.78 --> 611.74] Let there be an expanse between the waters to separate water from water. -[612.54 --> 618.52] So God made the expanse and separated the water under the expanse from the water above it. -[618.88 --> 619.64] And it was so. -[620.38 --> 624.84] God called the expanse sky, and there was evening, and there was morning the second day. -[625.54 --> 628.48] So you have water above and water below. -[628.48 --> 631.86] And verse 4 of Psalm 148 says, -[632.24 --> 636.32] Praise Him, you highest heavens, and you waters above the skies. -[637.26 --> 643.66] Now waters above the skies is sometimes called the firmament in ancient Near Eastern cosmogony. -[644.00 --> 648.78] And it's what comes crashing down in the flood story of Genesis 6 through 9. -[649.08 --> 652.72] And in Genesis 7, verse 11, it says, -[652.90 --> 654.88] The floodgates of the heavens opened. -[655.16 --> 656.56] That's what we're talking about here. -[656.56 --> 664.66] Thomas LeBlanc said that the ancients thought there was an ethereal and lofty ocean -[664.66 --> 667.86] in which the worlds floated like ships on a sea. -[668.22 --> 669.76] This is what crashes down. -[669.84 --> 673.52] And this too is what is called to worship God. -[674.58 --> 677.26] And then day three, right, in the Genesis story, -[677.32 --> 679.94] the waters are gathered and you get dry ground. -[680.02 --> 682.30] And that ground is populated with vegetation. -[683.44 --> 684.74] Verse 7 of our psalm says, -[684.74 --> 686.26] Praise the Lord from the earth. -[686.26 --> 686.98] And verse 9, -[687.54 --> 691.12] You mountains and hills, all fruit trees and cedars. -[691.72 --> 694.32] Right down through the days of creation we can go. -[694.44 --> 697.38] Day four is the creation of the sun and the moon and the stars, -[697.54 --> 700.14] which we read in verse 3 of Psalm 148. -[700.26 --> 701.84] Praise Him, sun and moon. -[702.00 --> 703.94] Praise Him, all you shining stars. -[704.90 --> 707.76] Day five, the oceans and the skies are filled. -[708.46 --> 709.10] And we read, -[709.20 --> 712.92] Praise Him, you great sea creatures and all ocean depths. -[712.92 --> 716.16] And on day five, the skies are filled with flying creatures. -[716.16 --> 724.66] And in verse 10, the flying birds are invited into this chorus of universal praise of Lord. -[725.82 --> 732.06] On day six, God starts with wild animals and livestock and all creatures that move along the ground. -[732.06 --> 734.62] And Psalm 148 verse 10 says, -[734.62 --> 739.58] Wild animals and all cattle, small creatures, right, are all commanded to praise the Lord. -[740.06 --> 743.52] And then day six ends with God creating humanity. -[743.52 --> 745.56] And the Lord said, -[745.56 --> 748.64] Let us make humanity in our image, in our likeness, -[748.74 --> 752.62] so that they may rule over the fish of the sea and the birds in the sky -[752.62 --> 754.62] and over the livestock and all the wild animals -[754.62 --> 756.90] and over all the creatures that move along the ground. -[757.32 --> 761.70] So God created mankind in His own image. -[761.80 --> 765.84] In the image of God, He created them male and female. -[766.02 --> 766.86] He created them. -[766.86 --> 773.70] All humanity, every station, every nation, every age, every gender, -[774.10 --> 777.36] are called into the song of praise to the Lord. -[777.74 --> 778.34] In verse 11, -[778.78 --> 780.78] Kings of the earth and all nations, -[781.20 --> 783.34] you princes and all rulers on earth, -[783.46 --> 786.48] young men and women, elderly and children. -[787.30 --> 791.76] Right, over the scope of the whole of Psalm 148 -[791.76 --> 796.50] is every bit of creation and history and prehistory -[796.50 --> 801.02] called together into the hymn of praise to the Lord. -[802.64 --> 807.52] I love how theologian D.A. Carson puts it. -[808.08 --> 808.66] He says, -[809.66 --> 813.12] The denizens of the earth's oceans, -[814.00 --> 817.18] the varied precipitation that waters the ground, -[817.74 --> 820.12] the fury of unleashed storms, -[820.12 --> 823.26] the majesty and beauty of mountains and hills, -[823.42 --> 826.42] the spectacular diversity and color and beauty -[826.42 --> 828.30] of the earth's flora and fauna, -[828.62 --> 832.14] the scarcely imaginable array of the earth's births, -[832.14 --> 835.70] all attest mutely but powerfully -[835.70 --> 838.56] to the goodness and greatness of God. -[839.54 --> 841.04] As part of that creation, -[841.46 --> 844.64] human beings in all their diversity of their ranks -[844.64 --> 845.88] and stations in life -[845.88 --> 848.68] join this universal chorus of praise, -[848.68 --> 851.42] not simply because he is bigger than we are, -[851.68 --> 854.38] but because no matter how highly we envisage, -[854.58 --> 855.98] his glory is splendor, -[856.24 --> 857.74] it is higher yet, -[857.90 --> 860.24] higher than anything and everything -[860.24 --> 862.10] in all of creation. -[864.62 --> 867.90] All creation is and will -[867.90 --> 870.62] praise the Lord for who he is, -[870.62 --> 874.18] and thus we are commanded to do so. -[874.18 --> 879.80] Now these words from Carson -[879.80 --> 882.76] also introduce our second point. -[883.40 --> 884.46] As Carson said, -[884.86 --> 886.02] As part of that creation, -[886.18 --> 887.82] human beings in all their diversity -[887.82 --> 889.80] and of their ranks of stations in life -[889.80 --> 892.06] join this universal chorus of praise. -[892.48 --> 894.32] Or, as I'm putting it today, -[894.74 --> 896.12] the crown of creation, -[896.38 --> 896.78] humanity, -[897.04 --> 900.22] has a special call to praise the Lord, -[900.22 --> 901.82] but the jewel in that crown, -[901.96 --> 903.02] God's chosen people, -[903.10 --> 903.62] his church, -[903.82 --> 905.84] have an extra special call. -[906.18 --> 907.10] So the first part of that. -[907.64 --> 911.56] All humanity is called to praise God, -[912.24 --> 914.62] just as the rest of creation -[914.62 --> 917.62] is in its own way already doing. -[918.22 --> 918.38] All right? -[918.44 --> 920.28] Let them praise the name of the Lord -[920.28 --> 922.14] for he alone is exalted. -[922.60 --> 924.46] His splendor is above the earth -[924.46 --> 925.32] and the heavens. -[925.32 --> 927.26] Now first of all, -[927.90 --> 930.64] notice that God is praised -[930.64 --> 933.74] not because of what he has done, -[934.54 --> 935.60] at least not yet, -[936.08 --> 937.94] as a reason to praise him. -[938.16 --> 939.74] That becomes one, of course, -[940.20 --> 941.64] but in the first place, -[941.76 --> 943.60] God is praised precisely -[943.60 --> 946.38] because he is praiseworthy. -[947.08 --> 947.20] Right? -[947.30 --> 948.84] God is good and worthy -[948.84 --> 950.24] of all honor and praise -[950.24 --> 951.50] and majesty and power, -[951.74 --> 953.58] even if he never created. -[953.58 --> 956.92] Even if God never did a thing, -[957.28 --> 959.14] God would be worthy of your worship. -[960.14 --> 960.62] Now, of course, -[960.68 --> 962.02] if God never did a thing, -[962.12 --> 963.74] there would be no you to worship, -[964.34 --> 966.50] but God would still be God -[966.50 --> 967.66] and that's enough -[967.66 --> 971.68] for him to be worthy of our worship. -[973.00 --> 974.50] And also see carefully -[974.50 --> 977.86] that God doesn't need your worship, -[978.50 --> 980.00] but he does command it. -[981.08 --> 981.22] Right? -[981.22 --> 982.44] And not just in the sense -[982.44 --> 984.08] of the imperative, -[984.46 --> 986.26] of the you must worship, -[986.40 --> 987.40] but he commands it -[987.40 --> 988.90] also in the sense -[988.90 --> 990.56] of beautiful, -[990.82 --> 991.40] in the sense -[991.40 --> 993.88] of his majesty -[993.88 --> 996.36] captivates your heart -[996.36 --> 997.50] and your imagination. -[997.92 --> 1000.06] He captures your attention. -[1002.26 --> 1004.50] When a person is, -[1004.84 --> 1006.08] when it's said of a person -[1006.08 --> 1008.04] that they command a room, -[1008.04 --> 1011.36] that means that everyone's attention -[1011.36 --> 1013.62] is fixated on them. -[1014.06 --> 1014.28] Right? -[1014.32 --> 1016.04] That they are drawn to that person. -[1017.32 --> 1018.48] Now, in a similar way, -[1018.60 --> 1021.94] our praises are drawn to God. -[1022.08 --> 1024.18] We are drawn to God. -[1024.72 --> 1026.62] Not only by virtue of being created -[1026.62 --> 1028.08] in his image, -[1028.14 --> 1029.92] though that no doubt helps -[1029.92 --> 1031.82] because God has thus made us -[1031.82 --> 1033.74] like himself and for himself, -[1033.88 --> 1035.88] but we are also drawn to God, -[1035.88 --> 1037.18] like all of creation, -[1037.18 --> 1039.78] to sing the glory of his name -[1039.78 --> 1040.94] and his nature. -[1041.64 --> 1043.50] And this is true of all humanity, -[1043.66 --> 1045.74] whether we believe in God or not. -[1046.38 --> 1046.60] Right? -[1046.66 --> 1049.80] Our hearts hunger and thirst for him. -[1050.88 --> 1051.94] We long for him -[1051.94 --> 1053.66] even if we don't admit -[1053.66 --> 1055.62] or even if we don't know -[1055.62 --> 1056.98] that we do, -[1057.08 --> 1058.42] even if we can't put words -[1058.42 --> 1059.40] to that longing. -[1060.30 --> 1061.42] And this is why so many people -[1061.42 --> 1063.78] try to fill that longing, -[1064.04 --> 1065.14] that emptiness -[1065.14 --> 1067.14] in their lives -[1067.14 --> 1068.60] with things or people -[1068.60 --> 1069.74] or money or power -[1069.74 --> 1071.70] or drinks or drugs -[1071.70 --> 1072.76] or whatever. -[1073.02 --> 1074.46] It's because our hearts -[1074.46 --> 1076.38] were made to worship. -[1076.88 --> 1079.32] We are made to love our creator -[1079.32 --> 1082.12] and the misplaced affection -[1082.12 --> 1083.68] of our hearts -[1083.68 --> 1084.90] is working out -[1084.90 --> 1086.08] that sort of normative -[1086.08 --> 1087.60] creational desire -[1087.60 --> 1089.10] and it's being directed -[1089.10 --> 1090.32] in the wrong way. -[1091.42 --> 1095.12] The whole of humanity -[1095.12 --> 1100.06] is called to worship God. -[1101.00 --> 1102.88] The crown of creation, -[1103.46 --> 1103.88] humanity, -[1104.12 --> 1105.08] has a special call -[1105.08 --> 1105.94] to worship God. -[1106.20 --> 1108.26] But the jewel in that crown, -[1108.42 --> 1109.46] God's chosen people, -[1109.54 --> 1110.04] his church, -[1110.44 --> 1111.20] you and me, -[1111.28 --> 1111.90] all of us -[1111.90 --> 1113.32] who by grace through faith -[1113.32 --> 1114.40] believe in him, -[1114.64 --> 1116.80] we have an extra special call -[1116.80 --> 1118.68] to worship him. -[1119.58 --> 1119.84] Right? -[1119.84 --> 1121.22] If all creation sings -[1121.22 --> 1122.32] and will sing -[1122.32 --> 1123.10] and is commanded -[1123.10 --> 1124.24] to sing the glories -[1124.24 --> 1124.86] of the Lord, -[1125.12 --> 1126.32] how much more so -[1126.32 --> 1127.24] will you -[1127.24 --> 1128.82] who know something -[1128.82 --> 1129.92] of this God, -[1130.86 --> 1131.84] how much more so -[1131.84 --> 1133.20] will you be called -[1133.20 --> 1134.72] to worship? -[1135.62 --> 1136.44] And not just that -[1136.44 --> 1137.66] and not just here, -[1137.76 --> 1137.96] right, -[1138.00 --> 1138.54] in church, -[1138.62 --> 1139.76] whether you're in the building -[1139.76 --> 1140.70] or you're at home, -[1140.76 --> 1141.78] which is more likely, -[1141.96 --> 1142.10] right, -[1142.10 --> 1143.48] not just even on Sunday -[1143.48 --> 1145.48] when it's relatively safe -[1145.48 --> 1146.20] and expected -[1146.20 --> 1147.20] and kind of normal -[1147.20 --> 1147.80] to do it, -[1148.04 --> 1148.20] right, -[1148.20 --> 1148.94] if all creation -[1148.94 --> 1150.18] is commanded to sing -[1150.18 --> 1151.08] and does sing -[1151.08 --> 1152.68] in response to who God is, -[1152.82 --> 1154.16] how much more so -[1154.16 --> 1155.44] is your whole life -[1155.44 --> 1156.46] meant to be -[1156.46 --> 1157.44] a hymn of praise -[1157.44 --> 1158.04] to God -[1158.04 --> 1159.56] who has created you -[1159.56 --> 1160.90] and who has redeemed you? -[1161.64 --> 1161.84] Right? -[1161.90 --> 1162.52] Your work -[1162.52 --> 1164.18] is a song of praise. -[1164.28 --> 1164.92] Your play -[1164.92 --> 1166.72] is a song of praise. -[1166.82 --> 1167.56] Your hobbies -[1167.56 --> 1169.16] are a song of praise. -[1169.40 --> 1170.06] Your crafting, -[1170.26 --> 1170.90] your puzzling, -[1171.00 --> 1171.54] your reading, -[1171.92 --> 1172.44] your gaming, -[1172.68 --> 1173.80] your D&D -[1173.80 --> 1175.30] or your CODing, -[1175.56 --> 1176.82] everything you do -[1176.82 --> 1178.56] is in praise to God -[1178.56 --> 1181.28] or it ought to be. -[1184.10 --> 1185.08] And as we continue -[1185.08 --> 1186.88] the song of Christmas -[1186.88 --> 1188.26] this year, -[1188.76 --> 1190.92] as you see God -[1190.92 --> 1192.80] come down in Jesus -[1192.80 --> 1194.46] in answer to prayer -[1194.46 --> 1195.50] and provision -[1195.50 --> 1196.58] in response -[1196.58 --> 1197.66] to that expectation -[1197.66 --> 1198.38] and longing -[1198.38 --> 1199.76] that filled the Advent season, -[1200.12 --> 1201.70] are you worshiping God -[1201.70 --> 1202.60] in all that you do? -[1203.80 --> 1204.40] Or are you holding -[1204.40 --> 1205.12] something back? -[1205.94 --> 1207.12] Or are you misplacing, -[1207.64 --> 1208.36] misdirecting -[1208.36 --> 1209.68] your affections? -[1210.10 --> 1210.96] Does every aspect -[1210.96 --> 1212.02] of your life, -[1212.10 --> 1213.30] does every square inch -[1213.30 --> 1214.42] of your being -[1214.42 --> 1215.66] belong to God? -[1216.56 --> 1217.70] Because in reality, -[1218.24 --> 1219.12] every micron, -[1219.62 --> 1220.28] every atom -[1220.28 --> 1222.18] and subatomic particle, -[1222.64 --> 1223.62] every bit of matter -[1223.62 --> 1224.72] and antimatter, -[1225.08 --> 1226.58] all of it does. -[1228.64 --> 1229.94] Make this season -[1229.94 --> 1232.30] about praising the Creator. -[1232.30 --> 1234.44] And not just here -[1234.44 --> 1235.14] on Sunday -[1235.14 --> 1235.92] when it's expected -[1235.92 --> 1236.52] and safe, -[1236.96 --> 1238.04] but everywhere -[1238.04 --> 1239.96] and in every way. -[1241.88 --> 1243.34] And let me be really clear -[1243.34 --> 1246.50] because I get it. -[1248.26 --> 1249.54] Lots of us are tired -[1249.54 --> 1250.84] right now. -[1252.36 --> 1253.80] Lots of us have had enough -[1253.80 --> 1256.78] and we just can't -[1256.78 --> 1258.44] do it anymore. -[1259.86 --> 1261.14] There's a weariness -[1261.14 --> 1263.40] that seeps -[1263.40 --> 1264.74] into our bones -[1264.74 --> 1266.00] right now. -[1267.76 --> 1268.56] And it makes -[1268.56 --> 1269.34] the normal parts -[1269.34 --> 1270.12] of life hard, -[1270.94 --> 1272.08] let alone -[1272.08 --> 1272.70] the extraordinary -[1272.70 --> 1273.66] parts of life. -[1273.66 --> 1277.18] And right now -[1277.18 --> 1278.10] we may not just -[1278.10 --> 1279.56] feel like -[1279.56 --> 1280.80] we can worship. -[1282.10 --> 1283.24] There may not be -[1283.24 --> 1283.84] a song -[1283.84 --> 1284.44] that we want -[1284.44 --> 1284.98] to sing -[1284.98 --> 1287.30] and we can't -[1287.30 --> 1287.78] do it. -[1290.88 --> 1291.88] And God has made -[1291.88 --> 1292.84] provision for that -[1292.84 --> 1295.28] because this worship -[1295.28 --> 1296.26] that we are called -[1296.26 --> 1296.60] to, -[1297.54 --> 1299.30] this call -[1299.30 --> 1300.24] that is extended -[1300.24 --> 1301.70] to all of humanity -[1301.70 --> 1302.32] right, -[1302.50 --> 1303.76] is interrupted, -[1304.04 --> 1304.98] is muted, -[1305.32 --> 1306.62] is cut short -[1306.62 --> 1308.26] because of sin -[1308.26 --> 1309.18] and because of -[1309.18 --> 1310.02] the realities -[1310.02 --> 1311.22] we face in the world. -[1311.32 --> 1312.28] And apart from God -[1312.28 --> 1313.36] acting in us -[1313.36 --> 1313.82] and through us -[1313.82 --> 1314.26] and for us, -[1314.36 --> 1315.88] we can't do it -[1315.88 --> 1316.52] right now. -[1318.16 --> 1319.30] But that's -[1319.30 --> 1321.68] God's point -[1321.68 --> 1322.74] in this psalm. -[1323.66 --> 1323.84] Right? -[1323.92 --> 1324.88] This call -[1324.88 --> 1325.66] to worship -[1325.66 --> 1326.26] right, -[1326.32 --> 1327.12] is truly -[1327.12 --> 1329.04] and obediently -[1329.04 --> 1329.86] possible -[1329.86 --> 1331.12] in our lives -[1331.12 --> 1332.44] only because -[1332.44 --> 1333.36] God -[1333.36 --> 1334.78] will raise up -[1334.78 --> 1335.58] a horn -[1335.58 --> 1336.72] for his people. -[1337.72 --> 1338.34] A horn -[1338.34 --> 1339.36] whom we know -[1339.36 --> 1340.04] to be -[1340.04 --> 1341.06] Jesus. -[1342.68 --> 1343.50] The priest -[1343.50 --> 1344.42] Zachariah -[1344.42 --> 1345.60] at the circumcision -[1345.60 --> 1346.56] and naming day -[1346.56 --> 1347.38] of his son -[1347.38 --> 1347.80] John, -[1347.88 --> 1348.40] who we know -[1348.40 --> 1349.10] will become -[1349.10 --> 1349.86] John the Baptist, -[1350.46 --> 1350.64] right, -[1350.72 --> 1351.38] this priest -[1351.38 --> 1352.22] Zachariah -[1352.22 --> 1353.18] on that day -[1353.18 --> 1354.48] says of Jesus -[1354.48 --> 1355.70] who is not yet born, -[1355.70 --> 1356.70] the Lord -[1356.70 --> 1357.84] has raised up -[1357.84 --> 1358.64] a horn -[1358.64 --> 1359.64] of salvation -[1359.64 --> 1360.38] for us. -[1361.44 --> 1361.62] Right? -[1361.66 --> 1362.06] Already -[1362.06 --> 1363.30] this is being -[1363.30 --> 1363.78] connected -[1363.78 --> 1364.62] and revealed -[1364.62 --> 1365.68] as Jesus. -[1365.84 --> 1366.32] This horn -[1366.32 --> 1367.02] of salvation -[1367.02 --> 1368.28] who will make -[1368.28 --> 1368.96] worship -[1368.96 --> 1369.82] possible. -[1370.26 --> 1370.48] Right? -[1370.52 --> 1371.52] The unimaginably -[1371.52 --> 1372.34] great God -[1372.34 --> 1373.40] has not only -[1373.40 --> 1374.14] called out -[1374.14 --> 1374.92] of his own -[1374.92 --> 1375.48] people -[1375.48 --> 1376.54] to worship -[1376.54 --> 1376.94] them -[1376.94 --> 1377.98] but has raised -[1377.98 --> 1378.90] up for us -[1378.90 --> 1379.60] a horn, -[1379.98 --> 1380.12] right, -[1380.16 --> 1380.78] a symbol -[1380.78 --> 1381.46] of a king, -[1381.76 --> 1381.90] right, -[1381.96 --> 1382.62] for the praise -[1382.62 --> 1383.58] of all his saints. -[1384.32 --> 1384.50] Right? -[1384.52 --> 1384.84] And living -[1384.84 --> 1385.66] on this side -[1385.66 --> 1386.24] of Jesus' -[1386.60 --> 1386.98] Christmas, -[1387.20 --> 1387.84] on this side -[1387.84 --> 1388.56] of the incarnation, -[1389.12 --> 1390.02] living on this side -[1390.02 --> 1390.96] of Easter -[1390.96 --> 1391.74] after Jesus' -[1392.04 --> 1392.96] life and death -[1392.96 --> 1393.70] and resurrection, -[1394.04 --> 1394.72] we know -[1394.72 --> 1395.44] that the ultimate -[1395.44 --> 1396.48] king in the line -[1396.48 --> 1397.04] of David -[1397.04 --> 1398.58] really is him, -[1398.70 --> 1400.04] really is Jesus -[1400.04 --> 1401.70] and so our praise -[1401.70 --> 1403.12] joins the rest -[1403.12 --> 1403.86] of the universe -[1403.86 --> 1404.74] with particular -[1404.74 --> 1405.38] intensity -[1405.38 --> 1406.48] and particular -[1406.48 --> 1406.96] gratitude -[1406.96 --> 1408.16] because we -[1408.16 --> 1409.36] know him, -[1409.52 --> 1410.78] we know Jesus -[1410.78 --> 1412.16] who lived the life -[1412.16 --> 1413.34] I should have lived, -[1413.34 --> 1415.06] Jesus who died -[1415.06 --> 1415.70] the death -[1415.70 --> 1416.92] that I deserved -[1416.92 --> 1417.68] and Jesus -[1417.68 --> 1418.88] who three days -[1418.88 --> 1419.80] later was raised -[1419.80 --> 1421.08] victorious over sin -[1421.08 --> 1421.58] and death -[1421.58 --> 1423.02] and now in his grace -[1423.02 --> 1424.00] by faith -[1424.00 --> 1424.96] grants me -[1424.96 --> 1425.86] his righteousness -[1425.86 --> 1427.44] even as my sin -[1427.44 --> 1428.52] is put over -[1428.52 --> 1429.26] to him. -[1429.48 --> 1430.20] This Jesus -[1430.20 --> 1431.20] grants us -[1431.20 --> 1432.26] the victory -[1432.26 --> 1433.58] of God. -[1435.64 --> 1436.82] That's why we can -[1436.82 --> 1437.16] worship -[1437.16 --> 1439.94] even when we are -[1439.94 --> 1440.42] tired, -[1440.42 --> 1441.70] even when we are -[1441.70 --> 1442.54] at our wits end, -[1442.66 --> 1444.14] even when it feels -[1444.14 --> 1445.16] like our life -[1445.16 --> 1446.34] is crumbling -[1446.34 --> 1449.46] because he has -[1449.46 --> 1450.88] made a way. -[1452.18 --> 1453.48] He has made it -[1453.48 --> 1453.98] possible -[1453.98 --> 1455.92] to praise the Lord -[1455.92 --> 1458.14] and that -[1458.14 --> 1459.86] makes me -[1459.86 --> 1461.24] want to sing. -[1462.36 --> 1463.10] Not only -[1463.10 --> 1464.86] are your songs -[1464.86 --> 1466.10] a song of praise -[1466.10 --> 1466.72] to the Lord -[1466.72 --> 1467.52] our God -[1467.52 --> 1468.14] in Jesus -[1468.14 --> 1469.28] but your life -[1469.28 --> 1470.46] is a song -[1470.46 --> 1471.60] and all creation -[1471.60 --> 1472.88] is a song -[1472.88 --> 1473.64] to the glory -[1473.64 --> 1474.52] of God -[1474.52 --> 1475.22] and so then -[1475.22 --> 1475.92] let's sing -[1475.92 --> 1476.66] with the angels -[1476.66 --> 1477.58] of Luke 2. -[1477.74 --> 1478.44] Let's sing -[1478.44 --> 1479.16] with the angels -[1479.16 --> 1480.38] of Revelation 4 -[1480.38 --> 1481.20] and 5. -[1481.32 --> 1481.82] Let's sing -[1481.82 --> 1482.70] with the great cloud -[1482.70 --> 1483.20] of witnesses -[1483.20 --> 1483.98] who have gone on -[1483.98 --> 1484.52] before us -[1484.52 --> 1485.80] in praise of Jesus -[1485.80 --> 1487.24] who are urging us -[1487.24 --> 1488.88] to fix our eyes -[1488.88 --> 1489.44] on him -[1489.44 --> 1491.26] even as we -[1491.26 --> 1492.36] persevere -[1492.36 --> 1493.24] in the race -[1493.24 --> 1494.28] marked out for us. -[1494.60 --> 1495.38] Let's sing -[1495.38 --> 1497.80] because you were -[1497.80 --> 1498.34] created -[1498.34 --> 1500.20] to worship. -[1501.64 --> 1502.26] Praise -[1502.26 --> 1502.98] the Lord. -[1504.26 --> 1504.76] Hallelujah. -[1506.64 --> 1507.06] Amen. -[1508.22 --> 1508.56] Amen. -[1508.56 --> 1508.70] Amen. -[1509.16 --> 1510.10] Let's pray together. -[1515.90 --> 1517.30] Lord Jesus -[1517.30 --> 1520.54] may we see you -[1520.54 --> 1522.00] most clearly -[1522.00 --> 1523.56] today. -[1523.56 --> 1527.02] may we love you -[1527.02 --> 1527.94] with all our -[1527.94 --> 1528.32] hearts -[1528.32 --> 1529.22] affections -[1529.22 --> 1530.12] and may we -[1530.12 --> 1530.88] worship you -[1530.88 --> 1532.30] with the song -[1532.30 --> 1533.60] of our lives -[1533.60 --> 1535.62] here in this place -[1535.62 --> 1536.24] with word -[1536.24 --> 1537.02] and music -[1537.02 --> 1538.04] singing -[1538.04 --> 1538.86] and dancing -[1538.86 --> 1540.48] but also -[1540.48 --> 1541.34] in the day -[1541.34 --> 1541.80] to day -[1541.80 --> 1542.58] of every day -[1542.58 --> 1545.24] may we worship -[1545.24 --> 1546.00] you. -[1547.60 --> 1548.40] God we know -[1548.40 --> 1549.04] that the truth -[1549.04 --> 1550.28] of your movement -[1550.28 --> 1551.00] in history -[1551.00 --> 1551.90] is that the -[1551.90 --> 1553.22] whole universe -[1553.22 --> 1554.78] all of creation -[1554.78 --> 1555.86] is singing -[1555.86 --> 1556.86] and will sing -[1556.86 --> 1557.58] your praises -[1557.58 --> 1558.94] and so may we -[1558.94 --> 1560.64] join our lives -[1560.64 --> 1561.74] with that -[1561.74 --> 1562.62] song -[1562.62 --> 1563.54] today. -[1565.16 --> 1566.32] Raise us up -[1566.32 --> 1567.90] a mighty army -[1567.90 --> 1569.34] to sing -[1569.34 --> 1570.64] praise -[1570.64 --> 1571.58] to you. -[1573.16 --> 1574.46] All creatures -[1574.46 --> 1575.42] of our -[1575.42 --> 1576.02] God -[1576.02 --> 1577.22] and King -[1577.22 --> 1579.20] we praise -[1579.20 --> 1580.28] him. -[1581.12 --> 1581.42] Amen. -[1581.42 --> 1581.56] Amen. -[1581.56 --> 1581.58] Amen. -[1581.58 --> 1581.60] Amen. diff --git a/Jonah The Man and His Mission #1 (Sermon)_summary.txt b/Jonah The Man and His Mission #1 (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c071d0e14dccf28e261899128f29bd82e9144071..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Jonah The Man and His Mission #1 (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,50 +0,0 @@ -• The speaker plans to study the book of Jonah over several weeks -• They invite listeners to read and reflect on the book, considering its structure and parallels between chapters one and two with three and four -• The challenge is to find a parallel story in the New Testament that reflects a similar theme or message -• The speaker notes that Jonah was writing about his own past experiences and encourages readers to find themselves in the story -• The book of Jonah tells the story of Jonah's disobedience and subsequent repentance, with God sending a storm to persuade him to fulfill his mission to Nineveh. -• Ravi Zacharias' life and ministry -• Death of Ravi Zacharias -• Background on Ravi Zacharias' conversion to Christianity -• Apologetics ministry and outreach efforts -• Importance of "Let My People Think" in spreading Christian faith -• Reflections on the story of Jonah and its significance -• Questioning the historicity of the story of Jonah -• The prophet Jonah lived during a time when Jeroboam II was the king of Israel -• Jeroboam II expanded Israel's borders to its former extent, butting up against the Assyrian kingdom -• The Assyrian kingdom was growing in influence and power at the time of Jonah -• In 721 BC, the Assyrians destroyed the northern part of Israel and took many people into captivity -• Nahum, a prophet who wrote about 100 years after Jonah, condemned Nineveh for its cruelty and violence -• Nahum's words described Nineveh as a city of blood, lies, and plunder, never without victims. -• Jonah's reluctance to go to Nineveh and preach against its wickedness -• God's command to Jonah to preach in Nineveh, and Jonah's refusal -• The story is compared to a rabbi being asked to preach in Berlin during World War II, highlighting the difficulty of responding to a divine call in a time of great crisis -• Jonah decides to run from his responsibility and boards a ship to Tarshish, but pays for his own fare instead of bartering as was customary at the time -• Jonah refuses to go to Nineveh and instead goes to Tarshish -• God sends a storm as consequence of Jonah's sin -• Sin is described as destructive, tearing apart on the inside -• A movie about Mr Rogers is referenced as illustrating overcoming sin -• The importance of facing death and sin directly is discussed -• Sailors in the story of Jonah notice an extraordinary storm and begin to wonder its cause -• Jesus' story about calming a storm in Mark chapter 4 -• Comparison of the stories of Jonah and Jesus -• Jonah's identity question to God -• The captain's efforts to save the ship and its cargo -• The risks taken by the sailors in throwing their product overboard -• The parallel between the story of Jonah and the concept "we're all in this together" during the COVID-19 pandemic -• The pagans' actions are portrayed as being in line with God's will -• Christians should learn to respect everyone regardless of their beliefs -• The pagan sailors respond to the danger after it has passed, offering sacrifices to Yahweh -• They become believers in the God of the Hebrews due to his past actions, specifically accepting Jonah's sacrifice for the benefit of all -• The New Testament later teaches that one person should die rather than an entire nation perishing -• The resurrection of Jesus demonstrates God's power and concern -• The lessons to be learned from this about our identity as people redeemed in Jesus Christ -• The call and commission to share the story of God's power with the world -• The contrast between a God of love and a God of wrath -• Hating sin, which destroys relationships, and wanting it crushed completely -• Environmental destruction, such as waste management and e-waste, and how we care for the world -• Jonah's experience and God's sovereignty -• Identifying ourselves in Jesus and what God wants us to do with those we have relationship with -• Requesting equipment for clear thinking -• Goal of accurate and honoring thought -• Praying in the name of Jesus \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Jonah The Man and His Mission #1 (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/Jonah The Man and His Mission #1 (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 96b836c5f6998ccd5bbe8355f0f69e8b2cbe9b13..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Jonah The Man and His Mission #1 (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,875 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 9.12] I'm scheduled to come here a number of times in the next number of weeks and so I thought -[9.12 --> 15.70] I would like to look at a narrative story in scripture that is a familiar one and that -[15.70 --> 16.92] is the story of Jonah. -[17.52 --> 24.70] And so over the next number of times when I'm here, I'm going to focus on each subsequent -[24.70 --> 26.54] chapter of Jonah. -[26.54 --> 34.14] It's not a very long book, I'm tempted almost to read the whole thing, but I'm only going -[34.14 --> 35.72] to read chapter one this morning. -[36.34 --> 40.94] But I'm going to invite you and those of you who are watching on live stream and who are -[40.94 --> 45.78] part of Emanuel Church to spend some time looking at the book of Jonah. -[45.90 --> 48.88] Don't just simply read the words. -[50.36 --> 51.40] Two challenges. -[52.10 --> 55.94] Take a look at its structure, how it is structured. -[55.94 --> 61.60] You'll find that chapters one and two have a parallel in chapters three and four. -[62.36 --> 63.46] And then here's the challenge. -[64.40 --> 69.28] And I will reveal the answer at some point if I don't forget, but I don't think I will. -[69.48 --> 70.34] But here's the challenge. -[70.48 --> 77.16] See if you can find in your mind and in your heart and in your experience a parallel story -[77.16 --> 79.28] out of the New Testament. -[79.28 --> 88.52] Just see if you can find in your heart and your mind a parallel story out of the New Testament. -[89.16 --> 95.26] The Hebrew writers of the Old Testament were very skilled. -[95.26 --> 98.80] They were thoughtful. -[98.80 --> 103.74] They were led by the Holy Spirit of God, but they were very skilled. -[104.26 --> 112.20] And when you read the book of Jonah, you need to remember that Jonah, who we presume to be -[112.20 --> 117.42] the author, was looking back at his experience. -[117.42 --> 121.02] He wasn't writing about it as it was happening. -[121.84 --> 124.06] He was looking back at it. -[124.20 --> 126.36] It was history for him. -[127.30 --> 129.76] And it becomes history for us. -[130.52 --> 134.30] And we need to try to find ourselves in the story. -[134.80 --> 138.10] So let me read from Jonah chapter one. -[138.10 --> 145.32] The word of the Lord came to Jonah, the son of Amittai, go to the great city of Nineveh -[145.32 --> 150.86] and preach against it because its wickedness has come up before me. -[151.84 --> 158.34] But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish. -[158.48 --> 162.04] He went down to Joppa where he found a ship bound for that port. -[162.04 --> 168.10] After paying the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord. -[169.54 --> 175.42] Then the Lord sent a great wind on the sea and such a violent storm arose that the ship -[175.42 --> 176.62] threatened to break up. -[178.50 --> 183.74] All the sailors were afraid and each cried out to his own God. -[184.78 --> 189.46] And they threw the cargo into the sea to begin to lighten the ship. -[189.46 --> 194.20] But Jonah had gone below deck where he lay down and fell into a deep sleep. -[195.60 --> 199.14] The captain went to him and said, how can you sleep? -[199.66 --> 201.66] Get up and call on your God. -[202.82 --> 207.44] Maybe he will take notice of us so that we will not perish. -[209.12 --> 215.50] Then the sailors said to each other, come, let us cast lots to find out who is responsible -[215.50 --> 216.66] for this calamity. -[216.66 --> 220.68] They cast lots and the lot fell on Jonah. -[222.20 --> 227.04] And so they asked him, tell us who is responsible for making all this trouble for us? -[227.54 --> 230.04] What kind of work do you do? -[230.46 --> 231.52] Where do you come from? -[232.08 --> 233.04] What is your country? -[233.88 --> 235.46] From what people are you? -[236.80 --> 238.18] And he answered, I'm Hebrew. -[238.18 --> 244.64] And I worship the Lord, the God of heaven who made the sea and the dry land. -[245.56 --> 246.90] This terrified them. -[246.98 --> 249.32] And they asked, what have you done? -[249.32 --> 256.28] They knew he was running away from the Lord because he had already told them so. -[257.24 --> 260.84] The sea was getting rougher and rougher. -[261.70 --> 266.40] So they asked him, what should we do to you to make the sea calm down for us? -[267.46 --> 273.22] Pick me up and throw me into the sea, he replied, and it will become calm. -[273.22 --> 279.04] I know that it is my fault that this great storm has come upon you. -[279.88 --> 283.86] Instead, the men did their best to roll back to the land. -[284.74 --> 289.98] But they could not, for the sea was growing wilder than before. -[290.24 --> 296.72] Then they cried out to the Lord, please, Lord, do not let us die for taking this man's life. -[296.72 --> 303.86] Do not hold us accountable for killing an innocent man, for you, Lord, have done as you pleased. -[305.08 --> 310.22] Then they took Jonah and threw him overboard, and the raging sea grew calm. -[311.34 --> 317.66] At this, the men greatly feared the Lord, and they offered a sacrifice to the Lord and made vows to him. -[318.56 --> 325.92] Now the Lord provided a huge fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days. -[326.72 --> 327.66] And three nights. -[328.22 --> 329.68] This is the word of the Lord. -[332.00 --> 335.24] So what have you been doing over the last number of months? -[336.36 --> 339.08] You've had time to do different things. -[339.72 --> 340.60] School has been out. -[340.60 --> 349.70] Perhaps if you have children at home, you had to do some homeschooling, and you discovered the challenging work of a teacher. -[349.70 --> 358.92] Or perhaps you've had to work from home, and you've discovered the importance of keeping a routine. -[360.70 --> 372.06] Or perhaps you have indulged ever more into social media, and you have become much more adept at finding your way around the internet. -[372.06 --> 377.78] Or perhaps you have been reading more. -[378.78 --> 383.90] The newspaper, magazines, books, fiction, and nonfiction. -[384.72 --> 389.20] What have you been doing over the last three months? -[390.84 --> 391.56] Complaining? -[393.18 --> 394.40] Binge-watching? -[394.40 --> 394.90] Binge-watching? -[395.30 --> 395.74] Binge-watching? -[396.36 --> 398.98] I've painted the interior of our house. -[400.72 --> 402.36] Our marriage is still together. -[403.98 --> 411.22] One of the things that happened is that this man died in the time. -[412.10 --> 414.72] His name is Ravi Zacharias. -[415.54 --> 421.96] Ravi Zacharias was born in India, converted to the Christian faith in his teenage years. -[421.96 --> 425.56] he was about 17, he had attempted to commit suicide. -[427.26 --> 431.00] And as a result of that attempt on his life, -[431.88 --> 436.66] he was confronted by the reality of who Jesus was, -[437.66 --> 440.78] and he committed his life to Christ -[440.78 --> 445.12] by the sovereign grace of God, working in his heart. -[446.32 --> 451.16] He moved to Canada, went to now what is Tyndale Seminary, -[451.96 --> 455.44] became part of the Christian Missionary Alliance Church, -[456.18 --> 459.94] and established a ministry of apologetics. -[459.94 --> 466.62] That is, he went around to people to defend the Christian faith. -[468.14 --> 471.76] He's been doing that for years and years, going to college campuses, -[471.76 --> 476.22] and has a whole ministry that is now based in the state of Georgia. -[476.22 --> 482.28] He was diagnosed with cancer earlier, or late last year, early this year, -[482.50 --> 486.20] and died rather quickly in May of this past year. -[486.20 --> 493.88] He had a blog and a radio program entitled, -[493.88 --> 498.00] Let My People Think. -[498.00 --> 502.84] Let My People Think. -[502.84 --> 510.38] In other words, let my people grow deeper into the Christian faith, -[511.22 --> 514.82] thinking about not only its doctrines, -[515.28 --> 517.52] but also its practices. -[517.52 --> 524.86] thinking about how we can best address the issues of the day. -[525.60 --> 531.76] Thinking about how we can best walk in the footsteps of Jesus. -[531.76 --> 536.28] In response to his death, -[536.28 --> 540.58] I began to read one of his books once again, -[540.58 --> 545.80] because I wanted to come to a deeper sense of appreciation -[545.80 --> 549.18] for the impactful ministry he has had. -[549.24 --> 552.72] And if you have had time now to explore the internet, -[552.92 --> 553.86] you'll know about YouTube, -[554.14 --> 556.44] and you just have to put his name onto YouTube, -[556.44 --> 561.06] and you get all sorts of different videos and clips of his work. -[561.06 --> 565.16] He is a very thoughtful, convicting speaker, -[565.82 --> 571.18] and I think you would benefit from hearing what he has to say. -[571.24 --> 571.72] But he said, -[572.24 --> 575.58] Let my people think. -[577.12 --> 579.68] And as I was reflecting on that, -[579.76 --> 584.96] and reflecting upon the need to lay open God's word, -[584.96 --> 589.22] I thought, maybe we should think a little bit more about Jonah. -[589.82 --> 592.00] Now Jonah is a very popular topic, of course, -[592.50 --> 596.62] because Sunday school classes can be built around him. -[597.38 --> 601.24] Vacation Bible school themes can be built around what happened. -[601.38 --> 607.06] I mean, kids just love this whole idea of storms and whales or great fishes -[607.06 --> 609.82] and living inside of a fish for three days. -[609.92 --> 613.82] I mean, you could make something dramatic of that. -[614.96 --> 617.54] But you really want to ask, -[617.96 --> 621.60] what do we know about Jonah, -[621.96 --> 626.56] and do we really believe that Jonah existed? -[626.78 --> 628.62] Because there's much debate about that. -[629.10 --> 633.58] Who believes that a fish could be so big to swallow a man, -[633.68 --> 635.90] to allow to live inside of the stomach, -[636.20 --> 637.94] full of gastric acid? -[637.94 --> 642.68] What would his skin have looked like three days later -[642.68 --> 645.94] when he was ejected in a whole blast of protein? -[648.64 --> 649.36] Really? -[649.76 --> 651.60] Can you really believe that happened? -[653.30 --> 655.32] Maybe it's not real. -[655.58 --> 658.38] Maybe it's just a fictional story -[658.38 --> 661.34] created out of a man's imagination -[661.34 --> 663.70] to drive home a point. -[665.76 --> 667.70] Maybe it's a parable, -[668.82 --> 671.48] a fantastical story -[671.48 --> 674.78] to make us think. -[676.68 --> 678.32] What do you know about Jonah? -[679.34 --> 681.54] Well, Jonah is mentioned -[681.54 --> 684.48] not only in the book that bears his name, -[684.48 --> 687.56] but also in 2 Kings chapter 14. -[687.78 --> 688.66] He was the one. -[689.16 --> 690.66] This is Jeroboam II, -[690.86 --> 692.68] who was the king -[692.68 --> 694.06] in the northern part of Israel. -[694.34 --> 696.36] The land had divided, -[696.56 --> 698.00] so there was Judah to the south -[698.00 --> 699.96] and Israel to the north. -[700.18 --> 701.78] And Jeroboam II, -[702.46 --> 703.68] not the first king, -[703.78 --> 705.32] but the second Jeroboam, -[705.74 --> 706.60] was king, -[706.60 --> 711.66] and his reign ended in 753 B.C. -[712.54 --> 714.16] So he was the one -[714.16 --> 716.60] who restored the boundaries of Israel -[716.60 --> 718.98] from Labohamath to the Dead Sea -[718.98 --> 720.94] in accordance with the word of the Lord, -[721.34 --> 722.30] the God of Israel, -[722.48 --> 724.60] spoken through his servant Jonah, -[725.12 --> 726.40] son of Amittai, -[726.56 --> 728.52] the prophet from Gath-Hippar. -[729.96 --> 732.62] So Jonah's mentioned in the scriptures -[732.62 --> 734.48] in another place. -[734.48 --> 737.14] It puts us, then makes us aware -[737.14 --> 739.02] of his time frame. -[740.64 --> 741.82] And he was a prophet -[741.82 --> 743.48] who spoke words of encouragement -[744.02 --> 745.52] to Jeroboam II, -[746.24 --> 747.60] who, however, -[748.06 --> 749.50] was one who was described -[749.50 --> 750.72] he did what was evil -[750.72 --> 751.98] in the eyes of the Lord. -[752.46 --> 755.52] And yet the Lord blessed his work and reign, -[755.88 --> 759.98] and he was allowed to expand Israel -[759.98 --> 761.38] to its former borders, -[761.58 --> 762.34] to the north, -[762.34 --> 765.18] to the land that was controlled -[765.18 --> 766.36] by the people -[766.36 --> 768.00] or the kingdom of Damascus. -[768.00 --> 771.18] That had been part of David's reign -[771.18 --> 771.84] and kingdom, -[772.20 --> 773.34] and Jeroboam II -[773.34 --> 775.82] pushed the boundaries back -[775.82 --> 777.54] to the north. -[778.00 --> 779.48] So his boundaries -[779.48 --> 780.82] butted up against -[780.82 --> 781.58] the boundaries -[781.58 --> 783.78] of what would be called in time -[783.78 --> 785.34] the Assyrian kingdom. -[785.34 --> 788.76] And the Assyrian kingdom -[788.76 --> 792.74] became a fairly large one, -[792.88 --> 795.68] and you will see Nineveh, -[795.80 --> 797.14] you see the letters, -[797.30 --> 797.96] the Assyrian kingdom, -[798.10 --> 799.02] and right above that, -[799.14 --> 800.84] you'll see it's a little unclear, -[801.50 --> 804.54] but that's where the city of Nineveh was. -[804.54 --> 807.10] So the Assyrian kingdom -[807.10 --> 808.60] was coming up -[808.60 --> 809.60] in influence -[809.60 --> 810.82] and power -[810.82 --> 812.54] at the time of -[812.54 --> 813.36] Jonah. -[814.32 --> 815.56] It was recognized -[815.56 --> 817.80] as a formidable -[817.80 --> 819.00] opponent. -[820.50 --> 821.52] In time, -[821.72 --> 823.60] in 721 BC, -[824.52 --> 826.26] the Assyrian empire -[826.26 --> 827.64] would destroy -[827.64 --> 828.98] the northern part -[828.98 --> 830.88] of the land of Israel -[830.88 --> 833.40] and take the northern Israelites -[833.40 --> 834.64] into captivity -[834.64 --> 837.36] from which they never recovered. -[839.18 --> 840.70] So Jonah was -[840.70 --> 841.90] aware -[841.90 --> 843.88] of the Assyrians -[843.88 --> 845.04] and -[845.04 --> 847.14] of their growing impact -[847.14 --> 847.88] and power. -[848.78 --> 849.96] This is a picture -[849.96 --> 851.12] of the reconstruction -[851.12 --> 852.72] of one of the gates -[852.72 --> 855.48] of the city of Nineveh, -[855.90 --> 857.00] and then beside -[857.00 --> 858.06] that -[858.06 --> 858.48] is -[858.48 --> 859.90] words from -[859.90 --> 860.80] the prophet -[860.80 --> 861.56] Nahum. -[862.72 --> 863.62] He comes about -[863.62 --> 864.78] a hundred years later -[864.78 --> 866.54] than Jonah, -[866.88 --> 868.24] and Nahum writes, -[868.44 --> 869.54] woe to the city -[869.54 --> 870.56] of blood, -[870.68 --> 871.48] full of lies, -[871.60 --> 872.36] full of plunder, -[872.52 --> 873.62] never without victims. -[873.72 --> 874.54] That's verse 1. -[875.12 --> 876.30] And then verse 19, -[876.82 --> 878.68] nothing can heal you, -[879.12 --> 880.62] your wound is fatal, -[881.18 --> 882.60] all who hear the news -[882.60 --> 884.04] about you clap their hands -[884.04 --> 884.84] at your fall, -[885.40 --> 887.02] for who has not felt -[887.02 --> 888.54] your endless cruelty. -[890.24 --> 890.98] Those are the words -[890.98 --> 891.62] of Nahum -[891.62 --> 892.82] to Nineveh, -[892.98 --> 894.58] to the Assyrian Empire, -[894.74 --> 896.16] a hundred years or so -[896.16 --> 897.74] after Jonah, -[898.68 --> 900.50] reflecting on the history -[900.50 --> 901.70] and the conduct -[901.70 --> 903.18] of the Assyrians. -[903.84 --> 904.96] They were known -[904.96 --> 905.90] for their cruelty. -[906.60 --> 907.52] They were known -[907.52 --> 909.12] for their attitude -[909.12 --> 910.90] towards their enemy, -[911.42 --> 912.68] to destroy them, -[912.68 --> 914.08] to beat them down, -[914.24 --> 915.22] to celebrate -[915.22 --> 917.18] their defeat. -[918.58 --> 919.96] So here we are. -[921.18 --> 922.12] We have Jonah, -[922.70 --> 923.34] a prophet -[923.34 --> 924.74] in the northern part -[924.74 --> 925.84] of Israel, -[926.54 --> 927.86] encouraging the king -[927.86 --> 929.62] who has been successful, -[930.30 --> 931.68] who is very aware -[931.68 --> 933.56] that to the further north -[933.56 --> 935.28] and to the east -[935.28 --> 938.20] arises this empire, -[938.20 --> 940.04] which in time -[940.04 --> 941.62] will have very -[941.62 --> 943.44] destructive impact -[943.44 --> 944.78] on the people -[944.78 --> 945.64] of Israel. -[946.96 --> 948.54] And God says -[948.54 --> 949.50] to Jonah, -[950.06 --> 952.70] go to Nineveh, -[953.02 --> 954.28] that great city, -[954.94 --> 956.18] and preach -[956.18 --> 957.58] against it. -[959.18 --> 960.32] And Jonah says, -[960.40 --> 960.60] no. -[962.28 --> 963.00] I ain't going. -[964.76 --> 966.20] Alexander Maslow -[966.20 --> 968.38] was quoted by John Ortberg, -[968.74 --> 971.06] and Maslow gets credit -[971.06 --> 973.38] for writing a summary -[973.38 --> 976.36] in the words of Dr. Seuss. -[977.82 --> 979.20] I would not go there -[979.20 --> 979.68] in a boat. -[980.16 --> 981.22] I would not go there -[981.22 --> 981.74] in a float. -[982.16 --> 983.26] I would not go there -[983.26 --> 983.84] in a gale. -[984.02 --> 985.12] I would not go there -[985.12 --> 985.68] in a whale. -[986.12 --> 987.96] I do not like the people there. -[988.50 --> 989.70] If they'd all died, -[989.78 --> 990.82] I would not care. -[991.68 --> 992.62] I will not go -[992.62 --> 993.72] to that great town. -[994.14 --> 995.30] I'd rather choke. -[995.30 --> 996.88] I'd rather drown. -[997.56 --> 998.34] I will not go -[998.34 --> 999.36] by land or sea. -[1000.06 --> 1001.52] So stop the talk -[1001.52 --> 1003.02] and let me be. -[1005.70 --> 1006.34] Jonah says, -[1006.42 --> 1006.64] no. -[1009.46 --> 1010.68] Imagine for a moment -[1010.68 --> 1012.68] that you were a rabbi, -[1012.90 --> 1014.02] a Jewish rabbi, -[1014.64 --> 1015.92] in 1941, -[1016.92 --> 1019.02] and that you lived -[1019.02 --> 1020.42] in greater Europe, -[1020.42 --> 1022.96] and God came to you -[1022.96 --> 1023.36] and said, -[1023.50 --> 1024.86] go to Berlin -[1024.86 --> 1028.28] and preach against it. -[1030.80 --> 1032.00] Would you go? -[1032.00 --> 1036.48] By that time, -[1037.02 --> 1038.68] the war had started. -[1039.98 --> 1041.04] Concentration camps -[1041.04 --> 1041.70] were packed. -[1042.98 --> 1043.66] Jews were being -[1043.66 --> 1045.32] transported en masse. -[1046.98 --> 1048.74] Millions would die. -[1050.34 --> 1051.10] Would you go? -[1052.44 --> 1053.88] Would it make any sense? -[1053.88 --> 1060.26] Let my people think. -[1060.26 --> 1063.02] Let my people think. -[1064.68 --> 1066.02] And so Jonah says, -[1066.14 --> 1066.32] no. -[1067.62 --> 1068.88] And Jonah decides -[1068.88 --> 1070.56] that he's going to run. -[1071.50 --> 1072.98] So he goes from his home -[1072.98 --> 1074.06] down to Joppa, -[1074.38 --> 1075.84] and he gets on a ship -[1075.84 --> 1076.26] to Tarshish. -[1076.26 --> 1076.78] Tarshish. -[1077.04 --> 1077.26] Now, -[1077.74 --> 1078.98] notice something, -[1079.56 --> 1080.72] because you have to -[1080.72 --> 1081.50] slow down -[1081.50 --> 1082.76] when you read Scripture, -[1083.04 --> 1084.72] because every word -[1084.72 --> 1086.40] and every sentence, -[1086.56 --> 1087.56] every phrase -[1087.56 --> 1088.86] can be packed -[1088.86 --> 1089.60] with meaning -[1089.60 --> 1090.74] once you begin -[1090.74 --> 1091.90] to unravel it -[1091.90 --> 1092.66] a little bit. -[1094.44 --> 1095.72] Notice that Jonah -[1095.72 --> 1098.00] paid his own fare. -[1100.78 --> 1102.32] He paid for a ticket, -[1103.00 --> 1105.02] which was very unusual -[1105.02 --> 1105.98] in the day. -[1105.98 --> 1107.40] if you would travel -[1107.40 --> 1108.02] by ship, -[1108.10 --> 1108.70] because they were -[1108.70 --> 1109.88] all cargo ships -[1109.88 --> 1111.36] or military ships. -[1111.52 --> 1113.00] There weren't cruise liners -[1113.00 --> 1114.42] and passenger ships. -[1115.08 --> 1116.50] No, you could buy a bed -[1116.50 --> 1117.32] and then get from -[1117.32 --> 1118.36] point A to B. -[1118.94 --> 1119.92] No, you would go -[1119.92 --> 1120.54] on a ship -[1120.54 --> 1121.62] and you would barter. -[1121.74 --> 1122.82] I'll sweep the deck. -[1123.54 --> 1124.82] I'll cook the food. -[1125.24 --> 1126.32] I'll help you load -[1126.32 --> 1127.12] and unload -[1127.12 --> 1131.80] in exchange for a trip, -[1132.00 --> 1133.40] because I'm at A -[1133.40 --> 1134.68] and I need to get to B -[1134.68 --> 1135.46] and I know you're -[1135.46 --> 1136.08] getting to be, -[1136.16 --> 1137.16] you're going to be. -[1138.68 --> 1139.68] But Jonah doesn't barter. -[1141.24 --> 1142.28] Jonah pays the fare. -[1143.60 --> 1145.86] He is a man of means. -[1146.30 --> 1149.02] He is a person of influence. -[1150.28 --> 1152.82] He can direct his own life. -[1152.82 --> 1155.22] And he says, -[1155.42 --> 1157.20] I will not go there in a boat. -[1157.32 --> 1159.28] I will not go there in a float. -[1160.52 --> 1161.76] Let them all die. -[1161.88 --> 1163.10] I do not care. -[1164.70 --> 1166.20] And so he goes his own way. -[1166.60 --> 1167.94] Instead of going to Nineveh, -[1168.04 --> 1169.34] he goes to Tarshish. -[1170.26 --> 1171.74] And we think that Tarshish -[1171.74 --> 1173.74] is probably located roughly now -[1173.74 --> 1176.74] where the Gibraltar is located -[1176.74 --> 1178.02] in Spain. -[1178.42 --> 1180.10] For that time, -[1181.12 --> 1182.22] it would be seen -[1182.22 --> 1182.84] and known -[1182.84 --> 1184.28] as the end of the world. -[1185.24 --> 1187.34] As far as he could go, -[1188.12 --> 1190.46] Jonah would go. -[1193.52 --> 1194.56] And then, -[1195.56 --> 1197.26] God sends a storm. -[1200.52 --> 1201.98] Jonah has sinned. -[1201.98 --> 1205.28] He has refused to obey God. -[1206.46 --> 1210.08] And sin always has its consequences. -[1211.34 --> 1212.52] You lie. -[1212.68 --> 1213.26] You cheat. -[1214.14 --> 1215.74] You practice injustice. -[1216.64 --> 1218.56] We live in a moral universe. -[1219.84 --> 1222.74] And sin always has its consequence. -[1223.86 --> 1225.88] Sin puts you in a prison. -[1226.96 --> 1228.60] Sin eats you up -[1228.60 --> 1231.54] from the inside to the outside. -[1231.98 --> 1233.66] I don't recall the name -[1233.66 --> 1234.60] of the movie right now, -[1234.70 --> 1236.26] but I watched a movie -[1236.26 --> 1237.44] about Mr. Rogers. -[1237.60 --> 1238.70] Do you remember Mr. Rogers? -[1238.80 --> 1239.44] He was nominated -[1239.44 --> 1240.70] for an Academy Award -[1240.70 --> 1242.66] with Tom Hanks. -[1244.52 --> 1246.26] And Mr. Rogers meets -[1246.26 --> 1247.48] a guy named Lloyd. -[1247.92 --> 1250.30] And Lloyd hates his father. -[1251.36 --> 1252.88] And it's eating him up -[1252.88 --> 1254.36] on the inside. -[1255.78 --> 1257.24] If you want to watch a good movie, -[1257.32 --> 1258.74] let me recommend that one to you. -[1259.26 --> 1259.52] All right? -[1259.52 --> 1262.20] Because it's a story -[1262.20 --> 1263.66] about overcoming. -[1264.14 --> 1264.82] Mr. Rogers, -[1265.00 --> 1266.52] as some of you probably know, -[1266.94 --> 1268.44] was a Presbyterian pastor -[1268.44 --> 1269.54] for over 30 years. -[1269.74 --> 1270.58] But he focused -[1270.58 --> 1271.66] on children's ministry. -[1271.80 --> 1272.80] He didn't talk overtly -[1272.80 --> 1273.96] about Jesus so much, -[1274.04 --> 1276.20] but he wanted to help children -[1276.20 --> 1279.46] deal with their feelings -[1279.46 --> 1280.82] and their fears -[1280.82 --> 1282.36] and their experiences. -[1283.00 --> 1284.26] There's a line in that movie -[1284.26 --> 1286.56] that continues to sort of -[1286.56 --> 1287.94] grab my attention. -[1288.14 --> 1288.44] He says, -[1288.60 --> 1288.98] Death, -[1289.36 --> 1292.30] death is often not talked about. -[1293.66 --> 1296.78] But if we mention death, -[1298.22 --> 1300.42] then by mentioning it, -[1300.94 --> 1302.72] it becomes manageable. -[1302.72 --> 1307.88] And, you know, -[1307.92 --> 1309.36] he deals with this person, -[1309.58 --> 1309.90] Lloyd, -[1310.06 --> 1313.66] whose life is being torn apart -[1313.66 --> 1315.60] by his anger -[1315.60 --> 1317.38] and by his pain, -[1317.58 --> 1319.10] by his sin, -[1319.18 --> 1320.24] as well as the sin -[1320.24 --> 1321.36] of his father. -[1321.52 --> 1323.50] It's a complicated story -[1323.50 --> 1326.00] and yet a universal story. -[1326.00 --> 1329.16] And the reality is -[1329.16 --> 1330.74] that's what sin does. -[1332.18 --> 1333.96] Sin eats away -[1333.96 --> 1335.24] and breaks -[1335.24 --> 1337.06] and tears -[1337.06 --> 1337.92] and destroys. -[1338.74 --> 1339.98] God sends a storm. -[1342.56 --> 1343.74] And the storm grows great. -[1343.86 --> 1344.76] Now these sailors -[1344.76 --> 1346.28] are experienced people, -[1347.22 --> 1348.88] but they notice -[1348.88 --> 1349.84] that this storm -[1349.84 --> 1351.36] seems to be extraordinary. -[1352.82 --> 1354.38] And they begin to wonder -[1354.38 --> 1355.66] who is the cause? -[1355.66 --> 1356.70] What is the cause? -[1356.98 --> 1358.00] This isn't natural. -[1358.20 --> 1360.10] This isn't the way -[1360.10 --> 1361.64] we have experienced it -[1361.64 --> 1362.90] in the past. -[1366.48 --> 1367.96] And then they cast a lot. -[1369.46 --> 1370.58] And think about -[1370.58 --> 1371.70] what they asked Jonah. -[1373.28 --> 1374.32] Who are you? -[1376.20 --> 1377.34] What do you do? -[1378.92 --> 1380.44] Where do you come from? -[1382.44 --> 1384.04] Who do you serve? -[1384.04 --> 1386.58] Those are questions -[1386.58 --> 1387.72] of identity. -[1388.24 --> 1389.28] Remember the story. -[1389.40 --> 1390.60] This is not the parallel story -[1390.60 --> 1391.08] I'm looking, -[1391.38 --> 1392.40] having you look for -[1392.40 --> 1393.70] for the story of Jonah. -[1393.78 --> 1394.58] But remember the story -[1394.58 --> 1395.12] of Jesus -[1395.12 --> 1396.50] as recorded in -[1396.50 --> 1397.94] Mark chapter 4. -[1398.02 --> 1398.90] He falls asleep -[1398.90 --> 1399.42] in a boat -[1399.42 --> 1400.76] and the storm comes -[1400.76 --> 1401.78] and the disciples -[1401.78 --> 1402.44] wake him -[1402.44 --> 1403.76] and they say, -[1403.84 --> 1404.58] aren't you afraid? -[1404.78 --> 1405.56] And he gets up -[1405.56 --> 1406.10] and he says, -[1406.80 --> 1408.38] peace be still. -[1408.38 --> 1412.16] And the wind abates -[1412.16 --> 1413.98] and the storm abates -[1413.98 --> 1415.76] and the apostles -[1415.76 --> 1416.48] look at him -[1416.48 --> 1417.72] and ask this question. -[1418.20 --> 1421.16] Who then is this -[1421.16 --> 1422.76] that even the winds -[1422.76 --> 1423.54] and the waves -[1423.54 --> 1424.52] obey him? -[1425.36 --> 1426.18] Jonah's asked -[1426.18 --> 1427.26] an identity question. -[1427.34 --> 1427.86] Who are you? -[1427.92 --> 1428.68] Where are you from? -[1428.96 --> 1429.88] What are you doing? -[1429.96 --> 1430.72] What's your purpose? -[1430.84 --> 1431.60] What's your place? -[1431.70 --> 1432.68] Who are your people? -[1432.68 --> 1435.26] I am a Hebrew -[1435.26 --> 1437.94] and I serve the God -[1437.94 --> 1441.12] who created the land -[1441.12 --> 1442.60] and the sea -[1442.60 --> 1447.02] and they are deathly afraid. -[1450.06 --> 1451.78] They are deathly afraid -[1451.78 --> 1454.24] because the great God -[1454.24 --> 1454.96] is the God -[1454.96 --> 1457.28] who created the land -[1457.28 --> 1458.26] and the sea -[1458.26 --> 1460.62] and they are feeling vulnerable. -[1462.68 --> 1463.92] And they do everything -[1463.92 --> 1464.76] that they can. -[1465.90 --> 1468.02] They throw the cargo overboard. -[1468.78 --> 1469.76] Now stop to think -[1469.76 --> 1470.74] what that means a minute. -[1471.84 --> 1473.78] They're throwing their product, -[1473.96 --> 1475.34] their wages overboard. -[1475.50 --> 1476.14] They're throwing -[1476.14 --> 1478.02] their future overboard. -[1478.68 --> 1479.86] This is not just simply -[1479.86 --> 1481.12] a matter of lightening -[1481.12 --> 1482.58] their ship. -[1482.68 --> 1484.92] This is a matter of surviving -[1484.92 --> 1486.02] and then entering -[1486.02 --> 1487.66] into abject poverty. -[1488.64 --> 1489.52] There's no insurance -[1489.52 --> 1490.32] at that point. -[1490.32 --> 1493.06] They are putting themselves -[1493.06 --> 1494.42] at great risk. -[1496.10 --> 1496.86] And the captain, -[1497.12 --> 1499.70] he marshals all the resources -[1499.70 --> 1500.98] that he can, -[1501.84 --> 1502.90] directing his sailors -[1502.90 --> 1504.18] but then looking -[1504.18 --> 1506.24] for this other passenger -[1506.24 --> 1508.40] who is sleeping -[1508.40 --> 1510.14] below deck. -[1510.86 --> 1512.10] See, this is the ship -[1512.10 --> 1512.84] of Tarshish. -[1513.52 --> 1514.50] If you read the stories -[1514.50 --> 1515.06] of Solomon, -[1515.20 --> 1516.04] he had a whole fleet -[1516.04 --> 1516.72] of these ships. -[1517.46 --> 1519.04] These were not small boats. -[1519.04 --> 1521.90] This was a ship -[1521.90 --> 1523.34] that had multiple decks. -[1523.50 --> 1524.18] It could be driven -[1524.18 --> 1526.06] by ore and by wind. -[1526.76 --> 1528.70] And they had all sorts -[1528.70 --> 1529.76] of cargo that delivered -[1529.76 --> 1530.84] here or there. -[1531.20 --> 1532.50] And Jonah was below deck. -[1533.50 --> 1534.62] And he was sleeping. -[1535.00 --> 1536.00] And the captain comes -[1536.00 --> 1536.38] and says, -[1536.74 --> 1536.94] you know, -[1536.98 --> 1537.74] wake up! -[1538.64 --> 1540.76] The captain berates him. -[1542.50 --> 1544.08] Pray to your God. -[1544.08 --> 1544.14] God. -[1545.14 --> 1545.88] We've got to have -[1545.88 --> 1547.22] everything going -[1547.22 --> 1549.30] going for us. -[1550.12 --> 1552.12] That is how scary it is. -[1552.60 --> 1554.26] And recognize this thing -[1554.26 --> 1556.40] that you hear so often today -[1556.40 --> 1558.16] in the context of COVID-19. -[1558.42 --> 1561.04] We're all in this together. -[1561.72 --> 1564.80] We all are on the same boat. -[1564.80 --> 1568.66] So mobilize your resources. -[1570.18 --> 1571.28] Do what is right. -[1572.76 --> 1574.06] And here's one of the lessons, -[1574.24 --> 1574.62] I think, -[1574.92 --> 1576.08] that we need to learn -[1576.08 --> 1577.22] from the story -[1577.22 --> 1579.20] that is recorded in Jonah. -[1580.48 --> 1581.52] The pagans -[1581.52 --> 1583.44] come off -[1583.44 --> 1585.14] more favorably -[1585.14 --> 1586.92] than the prophet -[1586.92 --> 1588.12] of God. -[1590.22 --> 1591.68] The pagans -[1591.68 --> 1593.78] do everything right. -[1595.96 --> 1596.92] And therefore, -[1597.32 --> 1598.14] as Christians, -[1598.36 --> 1599.18] we need to learn -[1599.18 --> 1599.78] a lesson -[1599.78 --> 1600.62] and that is -[1600.62 --> 1601.86] that we respect -[1601.86 --> 1603.16] everyone -[1603.16 --> 1604.30] regardless -[1604.30 --> 1605.62] of their beliefs. -[1608.16 --> 1609.52] And we treat them -[1609.52 --> 1610.38] as we would like -[1610.38 --> 1611.06] to be treated, -[1611.42 --> 1612.06] respectfully. -[1614.46 --> 1615.44] The pagans -[1615.44 --> 1616.20] do what is right. -[1616.32 --> 1617.34] They say to Jonah, -[1617.52 --> 1618.66] what should we do? -[1618.76 --> 1619.38] Jonah says, -[1619.48 --> 1620.66] toss me overboard. -[1620.66 --> 1621.68] And they said, -[1621.78 --> 1622.94] we can't do that. -[1624.30 --> 1625.36] And so rather -[1625.36 --> 1626.68] than toss them overboard, -[1626.90 --> 1628.10] they dig -[1628.10 --> 1630.22] really hard -[1630.22 --> 1631.04] into the water. -[1631.12 --> 1632.08] The Hebrew word -[1632.08 --> 1632.62] actually -[1632.62 --> 1633.64] for their rowing -[1633.64 --> 1634.90] is that they're digging. -[1635.28 --> 1636.00] They are putting -[1636.00 --> 1637.10] every effort -[1637.10 --> 1639.36] into getting to shore. -[1640.06 --> 1641.42] But they can't. -[1642.12 --> 1642.80] So tell us, -[1642.86 --> 1643.18] they say, -[1643.24 --> 1644.06] who is responsible -[1644.06 --> 1645.20] for making this trouble -[1645.20 --> 1645.76] for us? -[1646.10 --> 1646.94] What kind of work do you do? -[1647.24 --> 1648.08] Where do you come from? -[1648.32 --> 1649.06] What is your country? -[1649.42 --> 1650.44] From what people are you? -[1650.44 --> 1651.66] I am a Hebrew. -[1653.00 --> 1654.28] And the ship gets flooded. -[1656.36 --> 1657.86] And they toss them overboard. -[1660.28 --> 1661.44] And it's like a flip -[1661.44 --> 1663.02] of a switch. -[1664.72 --> 1667.16] And it's quiet. -[1667.16 --> 1672.42] And notice the response -[1672.42 --> 1673.74] of the pagan sailors. -[1675.22 --> 1677.08] They are afraid. -[1679.88 --> 1680.90] They have prayed. -[1680.90 --> 1681.26] Lord, -[1681.80 --> 1683.90] do not hold the sin against us -[1683.90 --> 1685.82] of throwing this guy overboard. -[1686.18 --> 1688.24] But they are afraid. -[1690.08 --> 1691.60] And they bring sacrifices. -[1691.60 --> 1693.44] Now the important point here, -[1693.82 --> 1694.38] I think, -[1694.44 --> 1695.98] is often lost on us -[1695.98 --> 1697.60] out of our own experience. -[1697.94 --> 1700.28] Because we often come to God -[1700.28 --> 1701.86] and we say to God, -[1702.30 --> 1704.86] if you do this for us, -[1704.90 --> 1706.16] if you help us, -[1706.38 --> 1707.72] then we will, -[1708.38 --> 1709.62] and we'll fill in the blanks, -[1709.66 --> 1710.46] we will believe, -[1710.64 --> 1712.14] we will dedicate our lives to you, -[1712.20 --> 1713.06] we will serve you. -[1713.06 --> 1716.22] But we're in a foxhole now, God, -[1716.34 --> 1717.84] and we need your help. -[1719.52 --> 1721.22] But that's not what happens here. -[1721.22 --> 1725.54] They are responding -[1725.54 --> 1727.18] after the danger is over. -[1728.18 --> 1730.02] After the crisis is gone. -[1730.58 --> 1731.92] The storm is gone. -[1732.32 --> 1733.46] The waves are calm. -[1733.84 --> 1736.00] The wind is calm. -[1736.78 --> 1738.14] They're making progress. -[1739.32 --> 1740.28] And they are afraid. -[1740.80 --> 1742.96] And they offer a sacrifice. -[1743.68 --> 1745.16] And the Hebrew catches it here. -[1745.24 --> 1747.52] They offer a sacrifice to Yahweh, -[1748.20 --> 1749.74] to the God of covenant. -[1749.74 --> 1753.84] They become, it seems, -[1754.86 --> 1757.84] believers in the God of the Hebrews. -[1758.62 --> 1761.52] The God who created the heavens and the earth. -[1761.96 --> 1762.32] Why? -[1762.84 --> 1765.28] Not because of what he will do for them -[1765.28 --> 1767.98] in the future, -[1768.76 --> 1771.28] but what he has done for them -[1771.28 --> 1773.20] in the past. -[1774.36 --> 1775.48] And what has he done? -[1775.82 --> 1778.16] He has accepted the sacrifice of one. -[1778.16 --> 1778.26] One. -[1779.26 --> 1780.96] To benefit the all. -[1783.22 --> 1783.92] And later, -[1784.46 --> 1786.12] the New Testament will teach, -[1786.74 --> 1788.72] it is better that one man should die, -[1789.78 --> 1792.22] than that all the nation should perish. -[1792.22 --> 1800.00] He has taken the substitutionary sacrifice of Jonah -[1800.00 --> 1803.90] and liberated from death -[1803.90 --> 1806.16] the pagan sailors -[1806.16 --> 1810.52] who have tossed him overboard. -[1810.52 --> 1840.50] He has taken the -[1840.50 --> 1841.50] a book of the Bible, -[1841.50 --> 1841.72] a fiction, -[1841.72 --> 1843.12] a story. -[1843.12 --> 1844.56] I want to say to you, -[1845.96 --> 1847.28] the resurrection of Jesus -[1847.28 --> 1848.60] is a greater miracle -[1848.60 --> 1851.08] than the creation of a great fish -[1851.08 --> 1852.16] with an antechamber -[1852.16 --> 1854.44] in which Jonah might have had a bench -[1854.44 --> 1854.88] and a pillow. -[1857.80 --> 1859.76] The resurrection of Jesus -[1859.76 --> 1864.46] demonstrates the power of God -[1864.46 --> 1866.84] and the concern of God. -[1867.84 --> 1869.74] So let us think. -[1870.62 --> 1872.80] What lessons do we learn -[1872.80 --> 1875.64] about our identity -[1875.64 --> 1878.36] as people redeemed -[1878.36 --> 1880.54] in Jesus Christ? -[1880.54 --> 1885.82] We are the messengers to the world, -[1885.82 --> 1890.84] the tellers of the story of God's power, -[1891.50 --> 1894.02] and God's power is demonstrated -[1894.02 --> 1895.10] throughout this thing. -[1895.64 --> 1896.52] There is a call. -[1897.74 --> 1898.94] There is a commission. -[1899.78 --> 1901.18] Go to that great city. -[1902.02 --> 1903.62] People often don't like the commission -[1903.62 --> 1904.82] and preach against it. -[1906.32 --> 1907.32] Preach against it. -[1907.32 --> 1909.86] We are talking about a God of love, -[1909.94 --> 1910.92] not a God of wrath. -[1911.94 --> 1912.34] Really? -[1913.98 --> 1914.46] Really? -[1915.04 --> 1916.00] I will tell you something -[1916.00 --> 1916.92] that I hate. -[1917.48 --> 1918.96] I hate COVID-19. -[1920.08 --> 1921.54] I hate that virus. -[1922.10 --> 1923.80] I hope scientists will discover -[1923.80 --> 1925.64] a tool that will crush it -[1925.64 --> 1927.60] absolutely and completely. -[1928.46 --> 1929.38] And I think that is -[1929.38 --> 1931.66] a perfectly justifiable hate. -[1931.66 --> 1936.02] God hates sin. -[1937.40 --> 1939.28] And he wants to crush it completely -[1939.28 --> 1941.76] because it destroys relationships. -[1942.24 --> 1944.36] It eats people up from the inside. -[1944.78 --> 1946.90] It destroys the relationship with God, -[1947.28 --> 1948.72] the relationship with themselves, -[1949.06 --> 1950.44] the relationship with others, -[1950.74 --> 1952.28] the relationship with the world. -[1953.46 --> 1954.66] I was listening to the news -[1954.66 --> 1956.26] coming up here this morning. -[1957.12 --> 1959.76] One of the great destroyers in the world -[1959.76 --> 1961.96] is what we do with our solid waste, -[1962.28 --> 1964.96] with our telephones and computers -[1964.96 --> 1965.76] and televisions -[1966.30 --> 1968.04] that we can no longer use. -[1968.64 --> 1971.86] And we just simply pile them up -[1971.86 --> 1973.86] and then poor villages -[1973.86 --> 1976.20] in Vietnam and in other places -[1976.20 --> 1977.60] strip out the wire -[1977.60 --> 1979.98] and the rest goes into landfill. -[1981.26 --> 1983.04] You stop to ask yourself, -[1983.04 --> 1985.04] what do we do -[1985.04 --> 1987.20] with the care of this world? -[1988.10 --> 1990.10] God is sovereign. -[1990.84 --> 1992.12] And he comes to Jonah -[1992.12 --> 1993.04] and he says, go. -[1994.14 --> 1994.90] And Jonah says, -[1994.98 --> 1996.14] no, I will not go. -[1997.30 --> 1999.44] I would rather that they all die. -[2000.96 --> 2002.26] And God reminds him, -[2002.30 --> 2002.70] he says, -[2002.96 --> 2004.38] I am the God of the Hebrews. -[2006.58 --> 2008.54] And what were the Hebrew nation -[2008.54 --> 2010.14] set aside for? -[2010.50 --> 2012.12] Well, remember the words to Abraham? -[2012.12 --> 2014.06] I will bless you -[2014.06 --> 2016.86] so that you will be a blessing. -[2017.50 --> 2018.46] To who? -[2019.24 --> 2020.34] To the nations. -[2021.16 --> 2022.28] To the people. -[2022.60 --> 2023.92] And what does Jesus say? -[2024.76 --> 2028.76] Go and make disciples of all nations -[2028.76 --> 2033.54] and surely I will be with you always -[2033.54 --> 2035.44] to the end of the age. -[2035.44 --> 2038.06] So I'm going to invite you -[2038.06 --> 2039.94] to think, -[2040.48 --> 2042.96] who am I -[2042.96 --> 2044.64] in Jesus? -[2045.60 --> 2048.72] And what does God want me to do -[2048.72 --> 2052.28] with those with whom -[2052.28 --> 2054.62] I have relationship? -[2056.10 --> 2057.70] The sailors on our boat. -[2057.70 --> 2060.92] we're all in it together. -[2062.36 --> 2064.28] How can we best share? -[2065.50 --> 2067.36] How can we best bless? -[2068.16 --> 2069.52] It may be as simple -[2069.52 --> 2071.96] as wearing a mask -[2071.96 --> 2074.96] or touching an elbow -[2074.96 --> 2078.24] or encouraging people -[2078.24 --> 2078.26] or encouraging people -[2078.26 --> 2079.82] to believe -[2079.82 --> 2081.78] that God -[2081.78 --> 2083.96] will have the last word. -[2086.64 --> 2087.74] So what do you think? -[2088.78 --> 2089.46] Let's pray. -[2090.64 --> 2091.40] Father God, -[2091.50 --> 2092.86] thank you for this day. -[2093.86 --> 2095.40] Thank you for this opportunity. -[2095.76 --> 2096.90] Thank you for your word. -[2096.90 --> 2100.08] Thank you for a person like Jonah -[2100.08 --> 2102.34] who would dare to reflect -[2102.34 --> 2104.40] on a very hard experience -[2104.40 --> 2105.22] that he went through. -[2107.16 --> 2108.44] Thank you for people -[2108.44 --> 2109.68] who will show us -[2109.68 --> 2112.82] how we can conduct ourselves respectfully. -[2114.36 --> 2116.50] We pray that we may learn the lesson. -[2117.12 --> 2118.26] That we may recognize -[2118.26 --> 2120.10] that you are sovereign God. -[2120.76 --> 2121.90] And that you can -[2121.90 --> 2123.36] not only send a great fish -[2123.36 --> 2124.58] but raise the dead -[2124.58 --> 2126.92] and have the last word. -[2127.64 --> 2128.56] We praise you -[2128.56 --> 2129.72] and we ask that you would -[2129.72 --> 2131.10] equip us to think -[2131.10 --> 2131.80] clearly -[2131.80 --> 2133.22] and accurately -[2133.22 --> 2134.94] and in such a way -[2134.94 --> 2135.84] as to honor you. -[2136.48 --> 2137.42] In Jesus' name. -[2138.08 --> 2138.56] Amen. diff --git a/Jonah The Man and His Mission #2 (Sermon)_summary.txt b/Jonah The Man and His Mission #2 (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 669936b38ca1e3be79a63236395ec3a69f28ae8b..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Jonah The Man and His Mission #2 (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,27 +0,0 @@ -• The book of Jonah is being explored in a sermon series -• The story of Jonah has various lessons, including understanding the grace of God, seeking justice, and dealing with racism -• Jonah himself is portrayed as a racist in the story -• The source of the story is likely Jonah's own account or testimony -• Chapter 1 of Jonah sets the scene for Jonah's journey to Nineveh to preach against its wickedness -• Jonah initially refuses to go but is eventually thrown overboard by pagan sailors who worship Yahweh, the God of covenant -• In chapter 2, Jonah prays to the Lord from inside a fish, expressing his gratitude and vow to sacrifice to God -• The chapter can be described as a journey toward understanding, both for Jonah and the listeners -• Jonah's journey and the concept of depth in understanding -• The importance of slowing down and carefully paying attention to words for deeper meaning -• Coming to awareness of one's own ignorance as a necessary step to understanding -• A personal story about recognizing and overcoming ignorance, requiring hard work and discipline -• God's patience with Jonah and his journey through three days in the belly of the fish -• The importance of coming to understand sinfulness and recognition of inability to save oneself from wrath -• Reference to Heidelberg Catechism Q&A 1-3 on comfort in life and death, salvation, and sin -• Suppressing truth about past mistakes -• Jonah's spiritual powerlessness and inability to earn God's favor -• Importance of recognizing limits and avoiding trying to force God's approval -• Turning towards hope and acknowledging dependence on God -• Significance of the Ark of the Covenant and the mercy seat in the temple -• Jesus as the ultimate sacrifice for sin, paying the price and setting people free -• Jonah's ongoing struggles with racism and hatred, despite learning about salvation through Jesus -• The origin of a child's life begins at the moment of fertilization -• A child develops and grows over time, just like believers grow in their faith -• Salvation is received in a moment (justification), but needs to be applied and unfolded (sanctification) -• Hope and patience are essential for understanding God's work in one's life -• Engaging in the process of spiritual growth is crucial, rather than being lazy or passive \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Jonah The Man and His Mission #2 (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/Jonah The Man and His Mission #2 (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 07ad9cdee8d6b5217ea2cedba19b203c306850e6..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Jonah The Man and His Mission #2 (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,209 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 8.24] Thanks, Ken. Well, good morning again, everyone. I was here last week, privileged to be here, -[8.40 --> 16.62] and began what I hope will be completed in a number of weeks, a sermon series on the book -[16.62 --> 23.78] of Jonah. Now, Jonah, as I mentioned last week, is a fairly popular book for vacation Bible school -[23.78 --> 31.04] programs and Sunday school programs, etc. You know, the drama of the story lends itself to pictures -[31.04 --> 42.66] and to crayons and to short plays and so forth. But in the drama of the story, there is also a journey -[42.66 --> 50.90] that we are all invited to participate in. It's not just simply a story. It's an invitation to -[50.90 --> 61.18] reflection and to understanding. Some people have said that there are three main foci or lessons in -[61.18 --> 68.58] the book of Jonah. The predominant one, which I think is the right one, is a focus on an understanding -[68.58 --> 76.44] of the grace of God. But there's also a quest towards justice, to doing what is right, -[76.44 --> 85.84] and a quest towards dealing with the issue of racism. Because Jonah, as you read the story, -[86.32 --> 96.90] does not come off as a very nice person, actually. He is a racist. He hates anyone who is not like him. -[96.90 --> 106.58] He wants to see the Ninevites destroyed. When you look closely at the story, you wonder about the -[106.58 --> 113.66] source of the story. And the source of the story has to be Jonah himself, whether he wrote it himself, -[113.90 --> 121.80] or whether he told the story to someone else who then wrote it down. How would that person have known -[121.80 --> 131.08] it except that Jonah had shared it? It's quite something to think about a person sharing a story -[131.08 --> 139.86] in which he comes off so negatively. If you're not familiar with a story, it only takes about 20 minutes -[139.86 --> 148.30] to read, if that. It's four chapters, 67 verses. It's not very long. In my Bible, it's two pages. -[148.30 --> 156.44] That's it. Last week, we looked at chapter one. It was the story of Jonah receiving the word from God, -[156.54 --> 162.76] go to Nineveh and preach against that great city, for its wickedness has come up before me. -[163.46 --> 171.82] And Jonah says, no, I'm not going to go. He stopped to think about that for a minute, because Jonah -[171.82 --> 178.38] was a prophet of God. We have reference to him in the book of the Kings. He worked at the time of -[178.38 --> 186.82] Jeroboam II, a king in northern Israel. And he prophesied about the expansion or the recovery -[186.82 --> 197.62] of Israel's geographical area. And Jeroboam was able to push its boundaries north, became large again. -[197.62 --> 205.86] Jonah was obviously a successful prophet. What he said came true. -[207.86 --> 216.06] But Jonah hears this word from God, says, nope, I ain't going. Forget it. Because those Ninevites -[216.06 --> 225.84] deserve to die. I am not going. And so he runs from God. God stops him with a storm. -[225.84 --> 236.28] The pagan sailors come off wonderfully good. They try everything they can to save their lives and -[236.28 --> 242.32] the lives of Jonah. When they ask him, what have you done? He says, well, I'm running away from God. -[242.58 --> 251.62] Who's God? The God of the Hebrews. The God of the Hebrews who had said to the founder of the Hebrew -[251.62 --> 260.14] nation, Abraham, I will bless you so that in you all the nations of the earth will be blessed. -[260.14 --> 270.46] Even when they knew that Jonah was the cause of the problem, they still try to rescue themselves -[270.46 --> 277.32] in him. Finally, they threw him overboard. And they become worshipers in the text, it says, -[277.42 --> 284.64] of Yahweh, which is the God of covenant. Every other reference in the book to the Lord is Elohim. -[284.64 --> 295.80] But the pagan sailors worship Yahweh, the God of covenant. And then a great fish comes to swallow -[295.80 --> 302.26] Jonah. And that's where we pick up the story. So let me read with you Jonah chapter 2. If you have -[302.26 --> 307.88] Bibles with you, I invite you to turn to Jonah and then keep your Bibles open because I'll make some -[307.88 --> 315.60] references to the text from time to time. From inside the fish, Jonah prayed to the Lord, his God. -[316.94 --> 325.34] He said, in my distress, I called to the Lord and he answered me. From deep in the realm of the dead, -[325.34 --> 335.38] I called for help. And you listened to my cry. You hurled me into the deep, into the very heart of the -[335.38 --> 342.52] seas. And the currents swirled about me. All your waves and breakers swept over me. I said, -[342.64 --> 347.78] I have been banished from your sight. Yet I will look again toward your holy temple. -[349.14 --> 357.46] The engulfing waters threatened me. The deep surrounded me. Seaweed was wrapped around my head. -[357.46 --> 365.30] To the roots of the mountains I sank down. The earth beneath barred me in forever. -[366.72 --> 375.90] But you, Lord my God, brought my life up from the pit. When my life was ebbing away, I remembered you, -[375.98 --> 382.02] O Lord, and my prayer rose to you, to your holy temple. To those who cling to worthless idols, -[382.02 --> 389.86] forfeit God's love for them. But I, with shouts of grateful praise, will sacrifice to you. -[389.86 --> 399.16] What I have vowed, I will make good. I will say, salvation comes from the Lord. And the Lord -[399.16 --> 407.38] commanded the fish, and it vomited Jonah onto dry land. This is the word of the Lord. -[407.38 --> 413.88] So what's happening here in this particular chapter? I think it could best be described as a journey -[413.88 --> 422.26] toward understanding. Have you ever struggled with understanding anything? Think, for example, -[422.36 --> 427.80] that you come into a new city, and you need to go to a certain location, you don't know how to get -[427.80 --> 433.76] there, and you stop, and you ask somebody for directions who gives you a whole paragraph worth -[433.76 --> 439.10] of directions. But you don't want to look stupid, so you agree that you understand everything. -[439.84 --> 445.56] And then you keep on driving, only to get hopelessly lost. That ever happened to you? -[446.34 --> 452.02] Of course, we live in the age of GPS now, so we don't even have to ask anymore. We can just simply -[452.02 --> 458.26] talk to a machine, and it talks back to us. And when we ignore it, it will say, recalculating. -[458.26 --> 466.06] You know, that's the reality of, you know, a journey toward understanding. Jonah is on a journey toward -[466.06 --> 477.20] understanding who he is. He is a servant of the God of the Hebrews. He is a servant of a God who says, -[477.50 --> 483.68] I will bless you so that you, all the nations of the earth, will be blessed. -[483.68 --> 496.84] In order to understand, Jonah needs to come to a depth of extremity. If you notice in the text, -[496.96 --> 504.46] if you're very careful and slow, you ever notice how some people often talk about devotions, -[504.56 --> 513.32] let's just quick pray a minute? Or let's just quickly read a passage? Well, let me ask you, -[513.32 --> 522.96] not to do it quickly all the time, but to pay careful attention to words, because words have meaning, -[523.52 --> 530.86] and words ought to be pondered and considered. Do you notice in the text that Jonah goes down -[530.86 --> 538.40] to Joppa? His geographical location is towards the north. He has to go down towards the south, -[538.40 --> 548.50] but he goes down to Joppa. And then he goes down under the main deck of the ship. He is in the belly of the -[548.50 --> 558.90] ship, and there he falls asleep. And then he is thrown overboard, and a fish swallows him, but he goes -[558.90 --> 567.90] down. He describes that he goes down amongst the weeds into the depths. To understand something, -[568.58 --> 575.52] you need to come to an awareness of your own ignorance. Let me relate a personal story. -[576.98 --> 583.56] History was something I loved in high school. Languages was something I wasn't very good at. -[583.56 --> 593.94] And French was something I really sucked at. And one test indicated I wasn't doing very well, -[594.06 --> 601.22] so I went to my teacher and I said, I'm not doing very well. And he said, yep. And you know what the -[601.22 --> 610.48] cause of that is? You're ignorant. He says, you don't know your vocabulary. You don't know how to -[610.48 --> 617.40] decline these verbs properly. You don't know your spelling properly. You need to do some work. -[618.92 --> 624.88] I didn't like what he had to say. As a matter of fact, I thought it was a bit insulting, -[625.54 --> 635.84] but I never forgot it because he was absolutely right. I had to work harder. I had to memorize more. -[635.84 --> 648.32] I had to ponder. I had to think. I had to be disciplined. And Jonah goes down and notice his feeling. -[648.62 --> 659.00] In my distress, in my distress, I called to the Lord and he answered me. -[659.00 --> 668.84] And then as the journey goes, because notice that when he calls to the Lord in distress, -[669.72 --> 677.50] God doesn't answer him quickly. He doesn't say, oh, fine, Jonah's prayed now. Let's just -[677.50 --> 682.92] get him out of the fish and get him back onto shore and, you know, keep his journey to about an hour or so. -[682.92 --> 694.76] Let's do it quickly. Sometimes things take time. I related to you last week that one of the projects -[694.76 --> 701.98] my wife and I undertook in which we completed this past week was to paint the interior of our house -[701.98 --> 709.52] from top to bottom. I'm not a very patient person when it comes to things like that. And I decided that -[709.52 --> 717.26] one of the lessons I needed to learn was I was going to do things patiently. But I was reminded of a bumper sticker -[717.26 --> 727.48] I saw on the car years ago which said, God, grant me patience, but hurry. Right? But patience doesn't come -[727.48 --> 738.72] in a hurry. And God takes his time with Jonah. He leaves Jonah in the belly of the great fish for three days. -[739.52 --> 749.72] And makes him ponder. And in the end, Jonah says, now I get it. He says, -[749.72 --> 759.44] with shouts of grateful praise, I will sacrifice to you. What I have vowed I will make good. -[759.44 --> 768.04] I will say, and this is the key verse here, salvation comes from the Lord. -[769.32 --> 772.50] Now some have argued that this is the key verse in the scriptures. -[773.60 --> 779.68] And all of the scriptures summed up in these words, salvation comes from the Lord. -[779.68 --> 790.02] And when Jonah gets it, there is a shout of praise. Just like many people here would shout if the -[790.02 --> 797.42] Vancouver Canucks won the Stanley Cup in October. Can you imagine? Right? There would be just a shout -[797.42 --> 806.92] of thankfulness and praise. Wow. We succeeded. Well, Jonah comes to this understanding. -[807.62 --> 816.28] Salvation is from the Lord. But he doesn't come to it quickly. He needs to go through a process. -[816.28 --> 824.64] So the beginning of the process has to be the extreme idea. I just don't understand it yet. -[825.74 --> 832.90] And so what does he have to learn? Well, many of us know quite well question and answer one of the -[832.90 --> 839.86] Heidelberg Catechism. Anybody have that memorized? What is your only comfort in life and in death? -[839.86 --> 847.50] That I am not my own, but I belong body and soul and life and death to my faithful Savior, Jesus Christ, -[847.80 --> 853.08] who has fully paid for all my sin. And it goes on. -[855.42 --> 861.60] Question and answer two, however, is equally important. What must you know to live and die in the joy of this -[861.60 --> 867.88] comfort? Number one, how great my sin and misery are. Number two, I am set free from my sin and misery. -[867.88 --> 873.18] And number three, how I can be thankful for the great salvation that is mine. -[874.20 --> 881.96] And then the Catechism unfolds those three things. Well, Jonah has to come to an understanding -[881.96 --> 894.88] of what it means to be a sinner. What it means to come under the wrath of God because of the wickedness -[894.88 --> 904.80] within. Now, we don't like to think of ourselves very often in terms of sinfulness. Oh, we're not -[904.80 --> 915.74] perfect, but we're pretty good. And we like to stress our accomplishments. We like to stress our -[915.74 --> 923.60] freedoms. We like to stress our privileges. We like to stress our rank. We like to stress -[923.60 --> 929.20] how good we are trying to be. -[931.52 --> 938.78] And Jonah was a successful prophet. He had the ear of the king. He was respected, no doubt, -[938.88 --> 947.28] in his community as a servant of God. And now he is in his distress calling out to the Lord -[947.28 --> 958.90] God. Because he says, you know something? I recognize I cannot save myself. And even one -[958.90 --> 969.90] imperfection, even one sin makes me subject to the wrath of God. The Apostle Paul in Romans chapter -[969.90 --> 980.02] 1 verse 18 talks about the wickedness of people and how people respond to it. He uses the verb -[980.02 --> 988.40] to suppress. I don't like to think about that. So I am not going to think about that. I will -[988.40 --> 995.80] just put it behind me and only think about it maybe when I'm in church and somebody forces me to think -[995.80 --> 1005.86] about it. But I am not going to think about it. We suppress the truth. Just think about it the next time -[1005.86 --> 1015.44] a police officer pulls you over for speeding. I wasn't going that fast. We just suppress the truth. And -[1015.44 --> 1023.78] now Jonah in the belly of the great fish has to come face to face with the truth. And in coming face to -[1023.78 --> 1031.48] face with the truth, he comes face to face with a second awareness. That he is spiritually powerless. -[1032.74 --> 1041.60] That he cannot do anything to earn God's favor. We like to try to do that, of course. We like to try -[1041.60 --> 1051.22] to emphasize how good we are, how many religious practices we have observed, how much time we have -[1051.22 --> 1059.12] spent in devotions, how many songs we have memorized, and so forth. We always like to stress the things -[1059.12 --> 1065.98] that we have accomplished. And there is really nothing wrong with that. You could be proud about -[1065.98 --> 1075.22] what you have accomplished. But you have to recognize that you cannot force God into a position -[1075.22 --> 1084.78] where he cannot say no to you. And that's what we try to do. We try to make it so that God has to say, -[1085.18 --> 1091.28] well done, enter in, you have contributed, I have contributed, and together we have accomplished. -[1092.04 --> 1101.80] No, that's not the way it works biblically. Biblically, we are sinful. God is holy. The two cannot match up. -[1101.80 --> 1114.96] So what does Jonah have to do? Jonah has to turn towards hope. So if you have your Bibles open, -[1115.68 --> 1124.50] then I want to, a part of Hebrew writing, and especially poetry, which is what chapter two is -[1124.50 --> 1132.34] about, the part of Hebrew writing, and poetry, is that you need to look for things which repeat, -[1133.34 --> 1140.06] because that's where the emphasis wants to fall. Now notice in verse four, -[1140.46 --> 1149.46] I said I have been banished from your sight, yet I will look again toward your holy temple. -[1149.46 --> 1162.04] And then notice verse seven, when my life was ebbing away, I remembered you, Lord, and my prayer rose to you, -[1163.00 --> 1173.62] to your holy temple. So this reference to temple is important. When Jonah was in distress, when he -[1173.62 --> 1186.24] prayed, when he called out to the Lord, he turned toward the temple. Why? Because the Ark of the Covenant -[1186.24 --> 1195.24] is in the temple. Remember, this is Old Testament. This is before Jesus. The Ark of the Covenant is in the temple, -[1195.24 --> 1206.76] and inside the Ark of the Covenant is the copy of the Ten Commandments, God's moral law, which teaches us -[1206.76 --> 1218.12] how great our sin and misery are, and how we fall short of our sin, of paying for our sin. And then when we -[1218.12 --> 1226.98] look at the law, we say, well then, what is the answer? Well, above the law, on the top of the Ark of -[1226.98 --> 1235.10] the Covenant, inside the most holy place of the temple, is a place called the mercy seat. And on the -[1235.10 --> 1242.96] day of atonement, Yom Kippur, the high priest, could go into the Holy of Holies the one time of the year, -[1242.96 --> 1250.42] and in his hand, he would have a basin with the blood of a sacrificed lamb, and he would sprinkle -[1250.42 --> 1257.72] the blood on the mercy seat of the Ark of the Covenant, inside the most holy place, inside the -[1257.72 --> 1268.60] temple, and God's anger for our sin would be atoned for. A price would be paid. And as Jonah is in the -[1268.60 --> 1275.58] valley of the great fish, he looks towards the temple, and he looks towards the place where the -[1275.58 --> 1290.56] price will be paid. And then he gives a shout, salvation is from the Lord. God has provided the -[1290.56 --> 1299.12] gift. Now, when we run this way ahead, because I sit here and I look, for example, at this red string, -[1299.28 --> 1306.30] which gives, I guess, a testimony to the fact that there is a story throughout the scriptures. When we -[1306.30 --> 1315.56] run ahead, the reality of who Jesus is, Jesus is the final atoning sacrifice. If you read the book of -[1315.56 --> 1321.54] Hebrews, and again, if you pay attention to the words, you will discover that when the priests, -[1321.68 --> 1327.14] the Old Testament priests, are bringing the sacrifice, they are constantly busy because there -[1327.14 --> 1337.86] is just a constant pouring out of blood. They're always standing in their service. But when Jesus came -[1337.86 --> 1346.56] and poured out of blood, in the book of Hebrews, it says, once for all, he sits down. -[1348.78 --> 1353.34] It's just like if I would sit down, you'd think, well, he's finished, finally. -[1355.68 --> 1361.70] Except I'm not yet. Right? But this idea of just sitting down is done. It's finished. -[1361.70 --> 1376.44] Jesus sat down. He paid the price. He set us free. Salvation is of the Lord. And Jonah moves -[1376.44 --> 1382.62] towards understanding. He becomes aware of his sinfulness, becomes aware of his powerlessness -[1382.62 --> 1388.96] to do anything about his sinfulness. He turns to the temple, and he sees the provision of sacrifice. -[1388.96 --> 1396.76] And in time, we see that Jesus is the ultimate sacrifice for our sin. And then we think, oh, -[1396.84 --> 1405.46] now Jonah gets it. Now he is fully mature. Except he's not. Notice verse 8. Those who cling to worthless -[1405.46 --> 1415.88] idols forfeit God's love for them. That is true. But Jonah, and you will see this next week and then -[1415.88 --> 1427.52] a couple of weeks after that, Jonah remains a racist. He remains an imperialist, thinking his nation -[1427.52 --> 1441.56] should be above the other nations. He remains hateful. He remains angry. He still has a way to go. -[1441.56 --> 1450.40] But there is hope here. There is hope that God says, -[1452.34 --> 1459.30] Salve. You've learned salvation is of the Lord. That's enough for now. And he gives the command and -[1459.30 --> 1468.16] the great fish spits Jonah out, vomits him out on dry ground. That's enough for now. And there's a -[1468.16 --> 1474.04] vitally important lesson for us to learn in our journey of understanding. And that lesson is this. -[1474.52 --> 1479.14] Salvation, which is of the Lord, is in a moment and it is in a lifetime. -[1479.14 --> 1489.30] It is in a moment and it is in a lifetime. You know, part of the delight of being here is listening -[1489.30 --> 1502.10] to a small child's voice. A contented cry. But think for a moment of the origin of that. The origin of -[1502.10 --> 1513.16] that was in the moment of fertilization. At that moment, mom was pregnant. It couldn't happen again -[1513.16 --> 1524.16] for that child. Just in that moment, mom was pregnant. Everything changed. About nine months later or so, -[1524.16 --> 1532.26] dad got to hold a child. And the doctor probably said, congratulations, you've become a father. No, -[1532.26 --> 1538.98] that's not right. He became a father about nine months earlier, except had nothing to hold. -[1540.34 --> 1547.32] There's been a progress and a procession. Now this child is there. Phone calls are made to -[1547.32 --> 1555.06] grandparents. If it was my father, my father's first question would be, is the child healthy? He would -[1555.06 --> 1560.84] not ask about gender. And in our day, we couldn't find out gender beforehand. He wouldn't ask about -[1560.84 --> 1570.16] gender. My dad would say, is the child healthy? My mother would say, what is the child? Boy or girl? -[1570.16 --> 1579.50] And then, what is the child's name? Well, my father was concerned about the health. And I could say, -[1579.94 --> 1586.02] everything's fine. Perfect. Ten fingers, ten toes, ears, eyes, everything works. Everything looks good. -[1587.84 --> 1595.90] But can you imagine if 12 months after that event, our oldest son, who just turned 42, -[1595.90 --> 1604.40] our oldest son, would have remained exactly the same way he was 12 months before? Same size, same shape, -[1604.78 --> 1615.68] nothing had happened. We would have been really distressed. Because while he was perfect here on May the 12th, -[1616.42 --> 1625.68] 1978, we would have wanted him to be walking on May the 12th, 1979. Now he was. -[1625.90 --> 1634.92] But he had developed and he had grown. And it is the same way with us as believers in Jesus. -[1635.16 --> 1642.92] We come in a moment of time to understand salvation is of the Lord. And I believe in Jesus. And I believe -[1642.92 --> 1649.64] he died for my sin. And I believe he lives in me. And I believe he is moving in me. And in that moment, -[1649.64 --> 1660.58] salvation is full of yours. But salvation needs then to be applied and unfolded. The biblical term for -[1660.58 --> 1667.60] that moment is justification. It is the act of God's free grace where we are changed in a moment, -[1667.70 --> 1674.68] in a twinkling of an eye. And then the process is the process of sanctification. It is the work of -[1674.68 --> 1681.50] God's free grace whereby he takes out the garbage of our lives and brings us to be more and more like -[1681.50 --> 1689.84] his son Jesus. Well, Jonah understood. But he still had some problems with the Ninevites. -[1690.62 --> 1697.30] He still had some problems with God's mercy. And we'll look at that in the long, in the coming weeks. -[1697.30 --> 1703.72] But the reality is that for all of us, this is a measure of hope. -[1705.22 --> 1715.86] We don't need to be fully mature and perfect. What we need is the acknowledgement that God who began -[1715.86 --> 1723.00] a good work, in the words of the Apostle Paul in Philippians 1, will bring it to completion. -[1723.00 --> 1732.68] And so two words of understanding. Have hope. Hope in the ongoing work of God in your life -[1732.68 --> 1747.04] and in the lives of others. And have patience. Patience with the process. But don't be lazy about it. -[1747.04 --> 1755.18] When I discovered I was failing French, I had to pull up my socks. I had to make a difference. -[1756.04 --> 1762.70] I never became a French scholar. But at the end of the year, I got a passing grade. And that was really -[1762.70 --> 1773.02] significant. So while we can be patient, we need to be engaged. This is the word of the Lord. Let's pray. -[1773.02 --> 1779.52] Father God, we thank you. Thank you for the journey that we're on towards understanding. -[1780.62 --> 1784.90] Pray, Lord, that we may be patient with ourselves, patient with you, patient with each other. -[1785.32 --> 1790.12] But that we may also be determined. Determined to learn the lessons that we need to know -[1790.12 --> 1797.86] at the various stages at which we're at. We pray that we'll not be lazy, but that we will be engaged. -[1797.86 --> 1804.52] And that we will be driven towards accomplishment. So hear our prayer. Mature us in Christ, we pray. -[1805.52 --> 1806.04] Amen. diff --git a/Jonah The Man and His Mission #3 (Sermon)_summary.txt b/Jonah The Man and His Mission #3 (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index e6b6eab8b6a612aea12502a5784ef19fdae18fd8..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Jonah The Man and His Mission #3 (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,47 +0,0 @@ -• Review of the book of Jonah, chapter 3 -• The prophet Jonah's journey to Nineveh and his mission to prophesize against its wickedness -• God's message to Jonah to go to Nineveh and warn its people of impending destruction -• The people of Nineveh repent and turn from their evil ways, prompting God to relent and spare the city -• Reflection on the idea of a "do-over" in life, considering mistakes and choices made -• The sailors in a storm identify Jonah as a Hebrew who worships Yahweh -• Jonah tries to escape but is thrown overboard and later vomited out on land -• He reflects on his failure to live up to the purpose of the Hebrews and cries out for mercy -• He recognizes he has fallen short and seeks forgiveness from God -• The word of the Lord comes a second time to Jonah, instructing him to go to Nineveh and give them a message -• Jonah is initially reluctant because he doesn't want mercy extended to the Ninevites, due to their size and power compared to Israel -• The Ninevites are on edge due to famine and locust plague, making them ready to lash out at others who come to take what little they have. -• God provides second chances and forgiveness -• The Ninevites are on edge due to solar eclipses and perceived omens of bad things to come -• Jonah is sent by God to preach against the wicked city of Nineveh -• God's power and provision are highlighted throughout the story of Jonah -• God values quality over quantity, and people should care for each other despite their wickedness -• Wickedness and violence will lead to disintegration and destruction of relationships, families, nations, and the universe -• God gets angry with wickedness and sends a servant (Jonah) to preach against it -• Preaching is seen as an unconventional approach to addressing wickedness -• John Lewis' death and his role in the civil rights movement -• Nonviolence as a key principle in achieving social change -• Jonah's message to Nineveh: "Yet 40 days... will be overthrown" -• The brevity and simplicity of Jonah's message -• The contrast between Jonah's message and typical preaching styles -• A story is told that invites reflection and decision -• The city of Nineveh was given 40 days, 17 days, or 18 months before destruction came -• Salvation is of the Lord, not just human effort -• Developing skills and programs is acceptable, but one should put hope in God's power to open hearts and minds -• The people of Nineveh changed by repenting and turning from their wicked ways -• This change involved treating others with respect regardless of differences and pursuing justice and righteousness -• The title of a story is mentioned, referencing the concept of justice -• The king's decree that everyone, including animals, must abstain from eating and drinking to pursue justice -• Discussion about mask-wearing mandates and whether they should be federally mandated -• A personal anecdote about fixing frozen pipes on a farm and the relief it brought to the cows -• Biblical reference to God turning away from his anger in response to repentance and turning towards compassion -• Two schools of thought on the nature of repentance in Jonah -• One school suggests repentance leads to change of behavior but not necessarily heart -• The Ninevites' repentance was a change of lifestyle, not necessarily heart -• Another school argues repentance involves both a change of behavior and heart -• Jesus's statement in Matthew 12 about the people of Nineveh standing as a judgment against the Pharisees and Sadducees -• Jonah and the Ninevites given a second chance by God -• Jesus comes to Jerusalem, crying because of its people's refusal to gather together -• Jesus' crucifixion, burial, and resurrection -• The power of Jesus' story to change lives and release God's power into others -• Prayer for guidance, forgiveness, strength, and obedience in following God's will -• Invocation/amen \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Jonah The Man and His Mission #3 (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/Jonah The Man and His Mission #3 (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 824682385796fae87d8cb4746faf2950323618ad..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Jonah The Man and His Mission #3 (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,891 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.68] I can invite you to turn once again to the book of the prophet Jonah, Jonah chapter 3. -[6.80 --> 12.14] For those of you who've been watching on live stream or have been present for the last two Sundays, -[12.52 --> 15.50] we've looked at Jonah 1 and Jonah 2. -[15.70 --> 19.98] Today we'll look at Jonah 3, and I'll be back, the Lord willing, in a few weeks, -[20.02 --> 23.60] and we'll complete it and look at Jonah 4. -[24.48 --> 29.78] I want to just challenge you to sit down some point and just read the whole of the book. -[29.78 --> 31.88] It's 67 verses long. -[32.48 --> 37.24] It takes less than 20 minutes to read it, even as you read it very slowly. -[38.24 --> 46.14] And like I said last week, I would like to ask you also to think very clearly about the words that are being used. -[46.28 --> 49.40] For example, Jonah went down to Joppa. -[49.86 --> 56.08] He went down into, under the deck of the ship that he tried to flee on. -[57.48 --> 59.36] And then he went down into the water. -[59.78 --> 65.78] You know, as long as we go away from the Lord, we're always going to go down. -[67.24 --> 75.12] But now Jonah has been, as we ended last week at the end of chapter 2, vomited out onto dry land. -[75.12 --> 83.76] And so today I would like to look at the journey of this man on his mission and ask the question, -[84.76 --> 88.92] would you like to have an opportunity for a do-over? -[88.92 --> 95.14] And with that question in mind, let me read from Jonah chapter 3. -[95.80 --> 96.70] It's 10 verses. -[97.78 --> 103.84] Just follow along on the screen if you like, or if you have your own Bible with you, then follow along there. -[103.84 --> 106.46] So verse 10 of chapter 2 said, -[106.46 --> 112.00] The Lord commanded the fish and had vomited Jonah onto dry land. -[112.76 --> 118.72] Then the word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time. -[119.76 --> 125.06] Go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim to it the message I give you. -[126.48 --> 129.14] And Jonah obeyed the word of the Lord and went to Nineveh. -[129.14 --> 131.94] Now Nineveh was a very large city. -[132.48 --> 134.84] It took three days to go through it. -[135.78 --> 139.22] Jonah began by going a day's journey into the city, proclaiming, -[139.54 --> 142.40] 40 more days and Nineveh will be overthrown. -[143.66 --> 145.42] The Ninevites believed God. -[146.18 --> 151.18] They declared a fast and all of them, from the greatest to the least, put on sackcloth. -[152.36 --> 156.04] And when the news reached the king of Nineveh, he arose from his throne, -[156.04 --> 161.62] took off his royal robes, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat down in the dust. -[162.50 --> 165.08] Then he issued a proclamation in Nineveh. -[165.96 --> 174.60] By the decree of the king and his nobles, do not let people or animals, herds or flocks, taste anything. -[175.72 --> 181.42] Do not let them eat or drink, but let people and animals be covered with sackcloth. -[181.42 --> 184.66] Let everyone call urgently on God. -[185.26 --> 188.18] Let them give up their evil ways and their violence. -[188.92 --> 189.84] Who knows? -[190.94 --> 198.46] God may yet relent and with compassion turn from his fierce anger so that we will not perish. -[199.82 --> 203.80] When the Lord saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, -[203.90 --> 208.62] he relented and did not bring on them the destruction he had threatened. -[208.62 --> 210.62] This is the word of the Lord. -[212.36 --> 214.90] So would you like to have an opportunity for a do-over? -[216.96 --> 218.58] Just think about that for a moment. -[219.94 --> 222.96] Now I'm not just simply saying, you know, a little thing. -[223.06 --> 224.90] I'm talking about a big thing. -[225.04 --> 229.38] How about going to school and doing that over, -[229.52 --> 232.32] but this time taking your studies a bit more seriously? -[232.32 --> 239.44] How about the career choice that you made? -[241.92 --> 243.68] Are you happy in what you've done? -[245.06 --> 247.44] Would you like to have an opportunity for a do-over? -[249.82 --> 251.34] Or how about marriage? -[251.34 --> 256.30] Or how about not having children? -[259.08 --> 262.40] Would you like to have an opportunity for a do-over? -[264.26 --> 272.18] Those are difficult questions to ponder because they get to the heart of who you are as a person. -[272.18 --> 281.60] The reality is, is that all of us would benefit from a do-over. -[282.98 --> 284.48] We've said the wrong thing. -[286.08 --> 287.56] We've done the wrong thing. -[288.72 --> 290.34] We've been in the wrong place. -[291.66 --> 293.26] We've developed the wrong attitude. -[294.84 --> 296.72] We'd like to go back and say, -[297.42 --> 298.74] I'm not doing that again. -[298.74 --> 302.04] I'd like to have a do-over. -[303.16 --> 304.18] Jonah heard from God, -[304.28 --> 305.82] Go to that great city. -[305.94 --> 308.34] Its wickedness has come up before me, -[308.44 --> 310.22] and I want you to preach against it. -[310.36 --> 310.98] And Jonah said, -[311.06 --> 312.26] No, I'm not going to go. -[313.10 --> 315.28] And he ran in the opposite direction. -[315.90 --> 323.24] Instead of going about 550 miles or 800 kilometers from where he lived to where Nineveh was, -[323.60 --> 324.62] and you have to go over land, -[324.62 --> 330.32] he decided to go down to Joppa and took a ship of Tarshish to go to the opposite direction, -[330.88 --> 333.16] 2,500 miles roughly, -[334.48 --> 335.70] but at least he could sail, -[335.80 --> 336.58] didn't have to walk. -[337.66 --> 338.02] He said, -[338.08 --> 338.82] No, I'm not going. -[339.08 --> 339.52] Why? -[340.78 --> 341.12] Well, -[342.00 --> 345.96] Nineveh was a great and a wicked city and an enemy of Israel, -[345.96 --> 349.64] and Jonah didn't want anything good to happen to them. -[349.92 --> 350.80] He hated them. -[350.92 --> 352.46] He was a racist. -[352.88 --> 354.42] He was an imperialist. -[354.66 --> 356.02] He was a nationalist. -[357.36 --> 360.90] And he gets confronted by his identity. -[361.10 --> 365.06] The sailors in the midst of a storm that God sends says, -[365.16 --> 365.84] Who are you? -[366.96 --> 367.64] I'm a Hebrew. -[367.64 --> 374.28] I'm a follower of the God who created the heavens and the earth, the sea. -[376.38 --> 379.00] And the sailors threw him overboard at his instruction, -[379.46 --> 380.72] and then they stopped. -[380.96 --> 384.08] When everything was done, the storm was gone, -[384.18 --> 389.84] they stopped and they sacrificed not to Elohim, but to Yahweh. -[389.84 --> 393.26] And the distinction is something like this. -[393.36 --> 395.32] Both are names of God, -[395.44 --> 399.14] but Elohim is sort of a generic name. -[399.82 --> 400.18] God. -[401.66 --> 403.04] Well, when you use Yahweh, -[403.56 --> 405.22] you think about Father, -[406.32 --> 408.00] one with whom you have a relationship. -[409.40 --> 411.34] And they celebrated. -[412.56 --> 416.00] They gave sacrifices to Yahweh. -[417.00 --> 418.42] But Jonah went down. -[419.84 --> 421.64] He went down as a Hebrew -[421.64 --> 424.86] who had failed to live up to the purpose of the Hebrews. -[425.02 --> 427.78] I will bless you, God had said to their founder, Abraham, -[428.02 --> 430.30] so that you will be a blessing to the nations. -[431.98 --> 432.96] Jonah went down. -[433.78 --> 436.00] And in his distress, he cried out to God. -[436.10 --> 437.36] He turned toward the temples. -[437.50 --> 441.56] Mentioned twice in his psalm, in his prayer. -[442.04 --> 445.60] He turned toward the temple because in the temple is the Ark of the Covenant, -[445.60 --> 448.84] and on the Ark of the Covenant is the mercy seat. -[448.84 --> 454.14] And within the Ark of the Covenant is the copy of the moral law given to Moses on Mount Sinai, -[454.14 --> 456.00] the known as the Ten Commandments. -[456.78 --> 459.12] And Jonah recognized he had fallen far short. -[459.58 --> 461.38] And he turns for the mercy of God, -[461.38 --> 464.72] and he ends up giving this shout of understanding. -[464.72 --> 467.18] Salvation is from the Lord. -[468.88 --> 471.72] Instead of going down any further, -[472.34 --> 476.66] he's now brought up and vomited out, -[477.26 --> 479.10] and he gets a do-over. -[480.24 --> 483.58] The word of the Lord comes a second time to Jonah. -[483.58 --> 486.94] Jonah, go to Nineveh, that great city, -[487.88 --> 491.28] and give them the message that I will give to you. -[492.48 --> 493.68] And Jonah goes. -[494.78 --> 497.80] If he had to walk, it's about 800 kilometers, -[498.06 --> 501.00] and if you can walk about 40 kilometers a day, -[501.28 --> 506.48] you're going to have lots of time to think about the message that you need to give. -[506.48 --> 511.38] The reality is that he had time to reflect and think. -[512.50 --> 515.14] And we know as you've read further in the story, -[515.64 --> 521.18] you know that ultimately Jonah is not very happy with God. -[522.96 --> 525.28] Because the God who had extended him mercy -[525.28 --> 530.38] was also the God who was going to extend mercy to the Ninevites. -[530.38 --> 535.30] And while Jonah appreciates mercy, -[536.30 --> 538.80] he doesn't want mercy to go to them. -[539.02 --> 539.30] Why? -[540.24 --> 544.56] Well, he was very concerned about quantity. -[546.12 --> 549.74] There's a quantity of miles, kilometers that he has to go. -[549.84 --> 550.66] That's one thing. -[551.24 --> 556.16] But there is also a great quantity of people in Nineveh -[556.16 --> 559.02] and in the Assyrian empire, -[559.02 --> 561.74] and they were on the border of Israel, -[561.74 --> 563.62] and they were a threat. -[564.04 --> 565.06] They were big. -[565.16 --> 566.10] They were powerful. -[566.24 --> 567.46] There were many of them, -[567.56 --> 570.18] and Israel was so small. -[571.32 --> 572.60] You know, it'd be better -[572.60 --> 575.76] if things went negatively for the Ninevites. -[577.34 --> 580.18] And the Ninevites were already on edge. -[581.28 --> 584.12] And I think we all identify with that a little bit. -[584.84 --> 587.32] Because, you know, we're dealing with COVID-19, -[587.32 --> 591.60] and everybody's a bit on edge, a bit reflective. -[591.96 --> 594.16] When you walk past somebody in a store, -[594.26 --> 596.40] you want to make sure that you don't get out of, -[596.66 --> 597.92] or get too close to them. -[598.14 --> 599.68] And if you do get close to them, -[599.72 --> 602.26] you're quick to say that Canadian phrase -[602.26 --> 603.04] that we all like, -[603.08 --> 603.54] I'm sorry. -[605.32 --> 605.56] Right? -[605.90 --> 607.54] We're all changing. -[607.62 --> 608.74] We're all bit on edge. -[608.82 --> 610.60] Well, the Ninevites were on edge, -[610.68 --> 612.68] and they were ready to lash out -[612.68 --> 615.68] because they were themselves afraid. -[616.10 --> 616.46] Why? -[616.64 --> 619.62] Well, three things historians have pointed out. -[619.92 --> 622.02] They were suffering from famine. -[623.86 --> 625.74] And also, Kevin mentioned that, you know, -[625.82 --> 628.78] there is a locust plague hitting. -[629.30 --> 631.18] People will suffer from famine, -[631.64 --> 634.26] and that makes them afraid for themselves -[634.26 --> 636.84] and for their children and for their future. -[637.98 --> 640.52] And when other people come to their meager supplies, -[641.32 --> 642.84] they are ready to lash out -[642.84 --> 645.10] and to build walls. -[646.78 --> 649.24] There were plagues in the time. -[650.54 --> 652.74] People died because of illness, -[652.94 --> 655.38] because of communicable diseases. -[655.38 --> 657.82] And again, we can identify. -[659.26 --> 660.48] And then there was something else -[660.48 --> 663.96] that had happened in 763 B.C. -[664.82 --> 667.24] There had been a solar eclipse. -[668.58 --> 671.66] And solar eclipses were always identified -[671.66 --> 674.76] as an omen for bad stuff to come. -[676.52 --> 680.60] They were seen as scary experiences. -[680.60 --> 685.42] And so the Ninevites were on edge. -[686.14 --> 689.12] Here, this powerful group of people. -[690.74 --> 692.34] And Jonah was worried -[692.34 --> 695.50] about the quantity of them -[695.50 --> 698.44] and the quantity of their hatred -[698.44 --> 702.36] and the quantity of their danger. -[704.06 --> 705.76] And God says to Jonah, -[706.32 --> 706.64] Go. -[706.64 --> 712.32] And you tell them what I want you to tell them. -[713.94 --> 715.20] And Jonah goes. -[716.70 --> 717.34] Why? -[717.54 --> 720.60] Well, because God is a God -[720.60 --> 724.26] who holds creation in His hand and His power. -[724.66 --> 727.48] And if you look at the story very carefully, -[727.84 --> 731.74] you will note that God is always providing something. -[733.06 --> 734.88] He provides Jonah with a mandate. -[735.10 --> 735.32] Go. -[735.32 --> 736.82] He provides them with a message. -[736.94 --> 738.46] Preach against that wicked city. -[738.80 --> 740.10] He provides a storm. -[740.22 --> 741.64] He provides a great fish. -[742.06 --> 743.94] He will, and we'll see that next time, -[744.28 --> 746.52] He will provide a gourd, a plant. -[747.02 --> 749.70] He will provide a hot wind. -[750.62 --> 753.42] He will provide a message. -[756.02 --> 758.36] But God also provides second chances. -[758.52 --> 760.28] And that's where it's really important for us -[760.28 --> 762.38] to reflect on and to think about -[762.38 --> 763.50] for a few minutes. -[763.50 --> 765.66] In your life, -[765.66 --> 768.38] do you need a second chance? -[769.88 --> 773.06] A second chance to heal a broken relationship? -[774.12 --> 776.32] To say, please forgive me? -[777.18 --> 780.76] To take responsibility for your action, -[781.24 --> 782.32] for your word? -[782.32 --> 783.32] God comes. -[783.32 --> 787.02] And God comes, and He creates hope -[787.02 --> 789.50] because He is a God who's ready to forgive -[789.50 --> 793.48] and a God who is ready to renew and to restore -[793.48 --> 797.78] because He is not a God so much concerned about quantity, -[797.94 --> 799.78] although He is concerned about that too. -[799.92 --> 801.40] We'll see that in chapter 4. -[801.40 --> 804.72] But He's a God who's concerned about quality. -[806.48 --> 809.52] The quality that you have as a person -[809.52 --> 814.52] and the quality that the person beside you has as a person -[814.52 --> 817.12] and the quality that the people, -[817.26 --> 818.74] the citizens of Nineveh -[818.74 --> 821.32] and the citizens of Assyria have -[821.32 --> 823.36] as people, as persons, -[823.36 --> 826.46] despite their wickedness, -[826.72 --> 829.00] despite their acts of violence. -[830.24 --> 835.60] And that quality is the quality of being made in the image of God. -[835.60 --> 840.02] You and I are reflective of God. -[841.70 --> 845.28] You and I are called to care for the creation. -[846.62 --> 849.12] We are called to care for each other. -[849.54 --> 851.50] One of the earliest lessons of the Scriptures, -[852.40 --> 857.22] Cain asks of God about his brother Abel, -[857.34 --> 858.86] Am I my brother's keeper? -[859.98 --> 861.60] And the answer is yes, you are. -[862.60 --> 864.08] You're also your brother's brother -[864.08 --> 866.14] or your sister's sister -[866.14 --> 867.22] or sister's brother -[867.22 --> 868.82] and sister's keeper. -[869.98 --> 874.10] God expects of us that we will care for each other. -[874.26 --> 876.62] And when we act with wickedness -[876.62 --> 878.76] and violence against each other, -[878.76 --> 880.66] He is angry -[880.66 --> 885.40] because He knows that inevitably -[885.40 --> 887.26] wickedness and violence -[887.26 --> 889.48] will lead to the disintegration -[889.48 --> 892.52] of family and of relationships -[892.52 --> 893.66] and of nations -[893.66 --> 896.56] and it will lead to the disintegration -[896.56 --> 898.70] of the fabric of the universe -[898.70 --> 899.54] and the world -[899.54 --> 901.22] in which He has placed us -[901.22 --> 902.56] as stewards and caregivers. -[904.14 --> 905.48] And so He gets angry. -[906.90 --> 907.74] And He says, -[907.88 --> 911.00] I will not allow it to continue. -[911.00 --> 917.26] And so what He does is He sends a servant -[917.26 --> 923.00] to do what many people think is ridiculous. -[924.06 --> 927.28] He should have sent a scientist -[927.28 --> 931.06] or a social scientist -[931.06 --> 933.54] or an engineer. -[933.54 --> 935.72] But a preacher? -[935.72 --> 938.62] You send a preacher? -[939.36 --> 941.40] To face wickedness -[941.40 --> 942.86] and violence? -[944.62 --> 946.14] I don't know if you watch the news. -[946.24 --> 947.76] I suspect all of us watch the news. -[947.90 --> 949.76] But, you know, a couple of days ago -[949.76 --> 950.70] John Lewis died. -[951.98 --> 954.36] He was one of the six leaders -[954.36 --> 957.26] of the civil rights movement -[957.26 --> 958.52] with Martin Luther King. -[958.52 --> 960.38] He was one of the guys -[960.38 --> 961.80] who walked across that bridge -[961.80 --> 963.50] in Selma, Alabama. -[964.40 --> 965.70] Suffered a fractured skull. -[967.84 --> 969.28] He wanted to be a preacher. -[969.74 --> 971.18] Never did become one. -[971.24 --> 972.62] He went to seminary. -[973.62 --> 974.90] Because he stuttered. -[975.92 --> 977.24] He preached to the chickens -[977.24 --> 979.60] at home on his farm. -[980.26 --> 980.80] He said, -[980.90 --> 981.82] I even married some. -[981.90 --> 982.60] I buried some. -[982.72 --> 983.52] Gave them funerals. -[983.52 --> 986.24] You think, -[986.56 --> 986.92] a preacher? -[988.60 --> 989.58] And yet he preached. -[990.52 --> 991.32] Nonviolence. -[992.64 --> 994.90] You stand up, he says. -[995.10 --> 997.00] You speak up, he said. -[997.16 --> 998.82] You march, he said. -[999.28 --> 1001.74] You'll sit down in protest. -[1003.32 --> 1004.82] But you don't engage in violence. -[1005.98 --> 1006.32] Why? -[1008.90 --> 1010.88] Because the person who opposes you -[1010.88 --> 1012.10] is an image bearer of God. -[1012.10 --> 1014.44] And one of the striking things, -[1014.50 --> 1015.90] I watched it on the news last night -[1015.90 --> 1018.06] in a reflection on his life. -[1019.02 --> 1021.04] One of the police who beat him up -[1021.04 --> 1023.26] on the bridge in Selma -[1023.26 --> 1024.98] asked to see him -[1024.98 --> 1027.20] and asked for forgiveness. -[1028.78 --> 1030.76] A very moving moment. -[1032.66 --> 1033.30] It's what a preacher -[1033.30 --> 1035.64] with a message of hope -[1035.64 --> 1036.96] and grace -[1036.96 --> 1038.28] and do-overs -[1038.28 --> 1040.04] can accomplish. -[1040.04 --> 1042.64] And God said to Jonah, -[1043.52 --> 1044.06] Go. -[1045.46 --> 1046.52] Give the message -[1046.52 --> 1047.52] I will give you. -[1047.60 --> 1048.96] I don't care what you think of -[1048.96 --> 1050.26] over the next 20 days -[1050.26 --> 1052.50] as you walk towards Nineveh. -[1052.74 --> 1053.48] The message -[1053.48 --> 1055.00] I will give you. -[1055.90 --> 1057.36] It's eight words long. -[1058.72 --> 1060.80] It's five words in Hebrew. -[1063.00 --> 1064.28] Yet 40 days -[1064.28 --> 1064.78] in Nineveh -[1064.78 --> 1065.74] will be overthrown. -[1065.74 --> 1069.94] If my homiletics professor -[1069.94 --> 1071.76] had read that, -[1071.84 --> 1073.42] if I had handed that in -[1073.42 --> 1074.76] as one of my sermons, -[1075.20 --> 1076.26] yet 40 days -[1076.26 --> 1076.98] and Toronto -[1076.98 --> 1078.26] will be overthrown. -[1079.08 --> 1080.40] Yet 40 days -[1080.40 --> 1081.84] and just fill in the blanks. -[1082.92 --> 1083.68] He would have said, -[1084.14 --> 1084.42] F. -[1085.08 --> 1086.30] There's no introduction. -[1087.30 --> 1088.70] There's no exegesis. -[1089.66 --> 1091.18] There's no testimony. -[1091.50 --> 1092.46] There is no illustration. -[1092.84 --> 1094.50] There's nothing of interest. -[1094.62 --> 1095.88] There's just a threat. -[1097.62 --> 1099.52] There's no hope here. -[1101.40 --> 1102.76] Yet 40 days -[1102.76 --> 1104.26] and Nineveh -[1104.26 --> 1105.26] will be overthrown. -[1109.14 --> 1110.44] And Jonah moves -[1110.44 --> 1111.38] with a message -[1111.38 --> 1113.06] into the heart of that city. -[1113.30 --> 1114.26] Three days journey -[1114.26 --> 1115.26] across to go. -[1115.26 --> 1117.84] He goes a day in, -[1117.92 --> 1118.64] sort of gets into -[1118.64 --> 1119.72] the center of the city. -[1120.58 --> 1121.46] And he preaches. -[1121.60 --> 1122.40] Yet 40 days -[1122.40 --> 1122.84] and Nineveh -[1122.84 --> 1123.68] will be overthrown. -[1123.78 --> 1125.40] Now does he change it at all? -[1125.76 --> 1126.52] Well, yeah. -[1126.64 --> 1127.18] We don't know -[1127.18 --> 1127.86] how many days -[1127.86 --> 1128.82] he preached this thing. -[1129.86 --> 1130.82] How many days -[1130.82 --> 1132.20] did he sit outside the city? -[1133.12 --> 1133.84] Did he start, -[1133.96 --> 1134.94] say, 40 days -[1134.94 --> 1136.54] and then the next day -[1136.54 --> 1137.52] 39 days -[1137.52 --> 1138.40] and then the next day -[1138.40 --> 1140.18] 38 and 37, 36? -[1140.44 --> 1141.64] Did he get down to one? -[1142.78 --> 1143.60] We don't know. -[1143.60 --> 1145.92] That's the power of story. -[1146.60 --> 1147.80] It invites you in. -[1148.00 --> 1149.04] It makes you think. -[1149.24 --> 1150.38] It makes you ponder. -[1150.60 --> 1151.84] It makes you reflect. -[1152.32 --> 1153.50] It makes you wonder. -[1154.76 --> 1156.34] It makes you decide. -[1157.82 --> 1158.70] Yet 40 days -[1158.70 --> 1159.08] and Nineveh -[1159.08 --> 1160.02] will be overthrown. -[1160.82 --> 1162.00] Yet 17 days -[1162.00 --> 1162.48] and Nineveh -[1162.48 --> 1163.46] will be overthrown. -[1163.98 --> 1165.04] Yet 18 months -[1165.04 --> 1166.44] before there's a vaccine -[1166.44 --> 1168.22] for COVID-19. -[1168.48 --> 1169.80] How will you survive -[1169.80 --> 1171.12] for another 18 months? -[1171.12 --> 1173.38] Well, the answer is -[1173.38 --> 1174.38] by the grace of God. -[1175.48 --> 1176.00] All right? -[1176.04 --> 1177.10] That's how we survive. -[1177.62 --> 1178.80] By the grace of God. -[1179.20 --> 1179.54] Yet, -[1180.00 --> 1181.68] yet 40 days. -[1182.44 --> 1185.00] What a ridiculous message. -[1187.40 --> 1188.54] And notice what it says. -[1189.02 --> 1189.78] The Ninevites -[1189.78 --> 1191.52] believed God. -[1191.52 --> 1195.28] Know this -[1195.28 --> 1196.38] as you function -[1196.38 --> 1197.18] as a church, -[1197.70 --> 1198.46] as a community -[1198.46 --> 1199.54] of redeemed people -[1199.54 --> 1200.10] within, -[1200.30 --> 1200.94] you know, -[1201.00 --> 1202.28] this community -[1202.28 --> 1203.58] and the broader creation. -[1204.16 --> 1204.90] Know this. -[1205.94 --> 1206.46] Salvation -[1206.46 --> 1207.60] is of the Lord. -[1208.96 --> 1209.88] That doesn't mean -[1209.88 --> 1211.08] you shouldn't develop -[1211.08 --> 1212.34] sermons and programs -[1212.34 --> 1213.34] dealing with skill. -[1213.52 --> 1213.98] The Apollos, -[1213.98 --> 1214.52] you know, -[1214.56 --> 1215.92] Apollos was one of the great -[1215.92 --> 1217.40] preachers of the New Testament, -[1217.40 --> 1218.46] but he sat down -[1218.46 --> 1219.70] with Priscilla and Aquila, -[1219.70 --> 1220.40] and they taught him -[1220.40 --> 1221.10] a better way. -[1222.54 --> 1223.80] So there's nothing wrong -[1223.80 --> 1224.98] with developing skills -[1224.98 --> 1226.96] and doing all of those things, -[1227.12 --> 1228.76] but you put your hope -[1228.76 --> 1229.52] and trust -[1229.52 --> 1231.02] in the power of God -[1231.02 --> 1232.12] to open, -[1232.78 --> 1233.64] closed hearts -[1233.64 --> 1234.78] and minds. -[1235.34 --> 1236.76] That's where the hope is. -[1237.32 --> 1238.74] So you keep telling the story. -[1239.52 --> 1241.76] You keep proclaiming the word. -[1241.76 --> 1244.08] You keep praying to God -[1244.08 --> 1246.18] that he will open hearts -[1246.18 --> 1247.46] and minds. -[1248.46 --> 1250.70] And then the people of Nineveh -[1250.70 --> 1252.32] changed. -[1253.76 --> 1256.18] The city wasn't overturned, -[1256.22 --> 1258.76] but they were overturned. -[1259.94 --> 1261.44] From the greatest of them, -[1261.50 --> 1261.84] it says, -[1261.92 --> 1262.64] to the least. -[1263.04 --> 1264.04] From the merchants -[1264.04 --> 1265.56] in the society -[1265.56 --> 1267.08] to the people -[1267.08 --> 1268.56] who swept the floor -[1268.56 --> 1270.38] or who picked up the garbage -[1270.38 --> 1272.78] or who had lower standing -[1272.78 --> 1274.32] socially and economically -[1274.32 --> 1275.28] in the city, -[1275.70 --> 1277.14] probably at that time -[1277.14 --> 1277.94] the slaves. -[1278.44 --> 1279.36] From the greatest -[1279.36 --> 1280.26] to the least, -[1280.48 --> 1281.74] doesn't involve the king yet, -[1281.80 --> 1283.16] the word comes to him later, -[1283.82 --> 1284.78] and to the nobles. -[1286.46 --> 1287.80] They believed God. -[1289.06 --> 1290.86] And they put on sackcloth. -[1292.18 --> 1293.44] And they repent. -[1293.66 --> 1294.66] What does that mean? -[1294.66 --> 1296.62] Well, they turned -[1296.62 --> 1297.46] from their wicked -[1297.46 --> 1299.12] and violent ways. -[1299.52 --> 1301.04] They began to treat -[1301.04 --> 1303.04] image bearers of God, -[1303.86 --> 1305.04] their neighbors, -[1305.42 --> 1307.54] with respect that they deserve -[1307.54 --> 1310.14] despite their color, -[1310.94 --> 1312.06] their race, -[1312.78 --> 1313.60] their gender, -[1314.20 --> 1315.16] their language, -[1315.54 --> 1317.28] their social economic status. -[1317.66 --> 1319.90] They pursued justice -[1319.90 --> 1322.86] and righteousness. -[1322.86 --> 1325.48] Gerald Van Der Zande, -[1325.76 --> 1327.42] he's passed away now, -[1327.52 --> 1328.54] but he had a lot to do -[1328.54 --> 1329.98] with Citizens for Public Justice. -[1330.46 --> 1331.36] He has a book. -[1332.36 --> 1332.86] I encourage you -[1332.86 --> 1333.56] to read sometime. -[1334.12 --> 1335.12] But the title -[1335.12 --> 1336.10] is intriguing. -[1337.24 --> 1337.78] It says, -[1338.16 --> 1338.80] Justice, -[1339.60 --> 1341.64] not just us. -[1344.46 --> 1345.02] Justice, -[1345.68 --> 1348.14] not just me. -[1350.14 --> 1350.74] Justice. -[1350.74 --> 1350.88] Justice. -[1351.40 --> 1353.94] They began to pursue justice. -[1354.98 --> 1356.46] And then the word came -[1356.46 --> 1357.26] to the king. -[1357.90 --> 1359.32] And the king said, -[1359.92 --> 1360.94] Everybody -[1360.94 --> 1363.66] has to get engaged. -[1364.72 --> 1367.26] There is a federal command -[1367.26 --> 1368.08] that says, -[1368.20 --> 1370.18] Everybody wear sackcloth. -[1371.20 --> 1372.32] That's an interesting thing -[1372.32 --> 1373.12] to reflect on -[1373.12 --> 1375.38] in the day of mask wearing -[1375.38 --> 1376.04] or not. -[1376.92 --> 1378.50] Does everyone do it? -[1378.50 --> 1382.18] Does it get mandated federally? -[1383.02 --> 1384.90] So far in our nations, -[1385.08 --> 1385.38] Canada, -[1385.50 --> 1386.24] the United States, -[1386.34 --> 1387.56] it hasn't been mandated -[1387.56 --> 1388.84] federally. -[1389.56 --> 1390.94] But you begin to wonder -[1390.94 --> 1391.90] whether it should be. -[1392.90 --> 1394.26] Whether we're effectively -[1394.26 --> 1394.96] fighting -[1394.96 --> 1398.42] what is changing our lives -[1398.42 --> 1400.26] and making us think. -[1401.12 --> 1402.10] The king says, -[1402.24 --> 1402.70] Everyone, -[1403.36 --> 1404.78] including your animals, -[1404.78 --> 1407.20] and they don't eat -[1407.20 --> 1407.98] and drink either. -[1408.56 --> 1409.66] I grew up on a farm -[1409.66 --> 1411.44] and, you know, -[1411.52 --> 1412.14] in Ontario, -[1412.36 --> 1413.60] it was cold in the wintertime -[1413.60 --> 1415.20] and our cows stayed inside. -[1415.62 --> 1416.72] But every once in a while, -[1416.82 --> 1417.94] the pipes would freeze. -[1418.98 --> 1420.02] And then the cows -[1420.02 --> 1421.44] didn't have water. -[1422.18 --> 1423.10] And when you came -[1423.10 --> 1423.88] into the barn -[1423.88 --> 1425.16] and the cows -[1425.16 --> 1425.98] hadn't had water, -[1426.08 --> 1426.68] you were greeted -[1426.68 --> 1427.62] with a chorus -[1427.62 --> 1429.58] of complaint. -[1429.58 --> 1434.88] And it just was -[1434.88 --> 1436.68] on and on and on. -[1436.90 --> 1437.44] So you quickly -[1437.44 --> 1438.44] got out the blowtorch -[1438.44 --> 1439.50] and by we had -[1439.50 --> 1440.30] a fair number -[1440.30 --> 1441.76] of amount of experience -[1441.76 --> 1442.96] of having frozen pipes. -[1443.06 --> 1443.46] So we knew -[1443.46 --> 1444.04] where the pipes -[1444.04 --> 1444.90] were likely to freeze. -[1445.42 --> 1446.12] And then quickly -[1446.12 --> 1447.36] you get the blowtorch out -[1447.36 --> 1448.58] and pretty soon -[1448.58 --> 1449.86] you're treated -[1449.86 --> 1451.06] to this wonderful -[1451.06 --> 1454.36] sound of running water. -[1454.36 --> 1456.32] and then it comes -[1456.32 --> 1456.96] to the cows -[1456.96 --> 1458.46] and slowly but surely -[1458.46 --> 1461.38] the moos reside -[1461.38 --> 1462.78] and reside. -[1463.50 --> 1464.96] And it is quiet. -[1465.14 --> 1465.94] It is still. -[1466.18 --> 1467.02] There is peace. -[1467.82 --> 1468.82] There is satisfaction. -[1469.32 --> 1469.86] Can you imagine -[1469.86 --> 1471.10] how hard these people -[1471.10 --> 1471.88] had to work -[1471.88 --> 1473.34] to keep their cows -[1473.34 --> 1473.96] from drinking -[1473.96 --> 1477.00] in a hot climate? -[1478.76 --> 1479.44] Perhaps -[1479.44 --> 1481.66] the Lord, -[1481.84 --> 1482.50] it says, -[1482.50 --> 1483.64] perhaps the Lord -[1483.64 --> 1485.14] will have compassion -[1485.14 --> 1486.48] and turn -[1486.48 --> 1487.66] from his fierce anger. -[1487.90 --> 1489.24] And we have to turn -[1489.24 --> 1491.26] from our evil ways -[1491.26 --> 1492.64] and our violence. -[1493.78 --> 1494.86] And they do. -[1496.26 --> 1497.56] And God turns -[1497.56 --> 1498.42] from his anger -[1498.42 --> 1499.82] and he relents. -[1500.60 --> 1501.56] Now there's an interesting -[1501.56 --> 1502.56] way of looking -[1502.56 --> 1503.22] at this -[1503.22 --> 1504.52] because you can -[1504.52 --> 1505.16] ask yourself -[1505.16 --> 1505.68] the question, -[1506.02 --> 1506.98] is this a repentance -[1506.98 --> 1507.84] that leads -[1507.84 --> 1509.12] to extended life -[1509.12 --> 1509.78] on this earth -[1509.78 --> 1511.04] or is this repentance -[1511.04 --> 1511.72] that leads -[1511.72 --> 1512.58] to salvation -[1512.58 --> 1514.14] that has extended -[1514.14 --> 1515.06] life with God -[1515.06 --> 1515.58] in heaven? -[1516.86 --> 1517.46] And there are two -[1517.46 --> 1518.20] schools of thought -[1518.20 --> 1518.64] on this. -[1520.26 --> 1521.46] One school of thought -[1521.46 --> 1522.34] is it's repentance -[1522.34 --> 1523.06] that leads -[1523.06 --> 1523.86] to change -[1523.86 --> 1524.56] of behavior -[1524.56 --> 1526.06] on this earth. -[1526.40 --> 1527.32] There's a pursuit -[1527.32 --> 1529.02] of no more justice -[1529.02 --> 1529.90] and of no more -[1529.90 --> 1530.60] evil ways -[1530.60 --> 1531.50] and of doing -[1531.50 --> 1532.20] what is right -[1532.20 --> 1533.02] and of doing -[1533.02 --> 1533.86] what is kind -[1533.86 --> 1534.60] and of doing -[1534.60 --> 1535.28] what is loving. -[1536.48 --> 1536.96] And the reason -[1536.96 --> 1537.82] why some scholars -[1537.82 --> 1538.72] say that -[1538.72 --> 1539.32] is because -[1539.32 --> 1540.90] the Ninevites -[1540.90 --> 1541.86] apparently never -[1541.86 --> 1542.78] give up their idols. -[1542.92 --> 1543.68] They never give up -[1543.68 --> 1544.30] their gods -[1544.30 --> 1545.56] and they never -[1545.56 --> 1547.36] refer to God -[1547.36 --> 1548.58] as Yahweh -[1548.58 --> 1549.62] as the sailors -[1549.62 --> 1550.10] had done -[1550.10 --> 1550.90] in chapter 1. -[1551.52 --> 1552.60] They refer to God -[1552.60 --> 1553.26] as Elohim. -[1554.40 --> 1555.58] Sort of general, -[1555.98 --> 1556.32] generic. -[1557.90 --> 1558.98] And so their repentance -[1558.98 --> 1560.44] involves -[1560.44 --> 1561.98] a change -[1561.98 --> 1563.06] of lifestyle -[1563.06 --> 1565.12] but not necessarily -[1565.12 --> 1565.64] a change -[1565.64 --> 1566.12] of heart. -[1567.26 --> 1567.92] And then there are, -[1568.06 --> 1568.54] there's the other -[1568.54 --> 1569.24] school of thought -[1569.24 --> 1569.74] that says, -[1570.20 --> 1570.52] no, no, -[1570.56 --> 1571.64] it involves both, -[1571.70 --> 1572.62] a change of heart -[1572.62 --> 1573.52] or lifestyle -[1573.52 --> 1574.28] and a change -[1574.28 --> 1574.88] of heart -[1574.88 --> 1575.88] as well. -[1576.72 --> 1577.52] And if you read -[1577.52 --> 1578.60] in the Gospel -[1578.60 --> 1581.50] of Matthew -[1581.50 --> 1582.44] chapter 12, -[1583.56 --> 1583.78] you know, -[1583.84 --> 1584.76] Jesus is asked -[1584.76 --> 1585.74] by the Pharisees, -[1585.84 --> 1586.06] teacher, -[1586.22 --> 1586.84] we want to see -[1586.84 --> 1587.82] a sign from you. -[1588.48 --> 1589.48] And he answered, -[1589.60 --> 1589.94] a wicked -[1589.94 --> 1590.68] and adulterous -[1590.68 --> 1591.68] generation asks -[1591.68 --> 1592.40] for a sign -[1592.40 --> 1593.54] but none will be -[1593.54 --> 1594.00] given it -[1594.00 --> 1594.84] except the sign -[1594.84 --> 1595.88] of the prophet Jonah. -[1596.78 --> 1597.38] For as Jonah -[1597.38 --> 1598.14] was three days -[1598.14 --> 1598.80] and three nights -[1598.80 --> 1599.26] in the belly -[1599.26 --> 1600.22] of a huge fish, -[1600.72 --> 1601.76] so the Son of Man -[1601.76 --> 1602.62] will be three days -[1602.62 --> 1603.30] and three nights -[1603.30 --> 1603.76] in the heart -[1603.76 --> 1604.32] of the earth. -[1604.96 --> 1605.84] The people of Nineveh -[1605.84 --> 1606.50] will stand up -[1606.50 --> 1607.10] as a judgment -[1607.10 --> 1608.14] with this generation -[1608.14 --> 1609.10] and condemn it. -[1610.02 --> 1611.20] Now notice these words. -[1612.48 --> 1614.00] For they repented -[1614.00 --> 1614.98] at the preaching -[1614.98 --> 1615.86] of Jonah -[1615.86 --> 1618.78] and now one greater -[1618.78 --> 1619.38] than Jonah -[1619.38 --> 1620.04] is here. -[1621.40 --> 1622.44] They repented -[1622.44 --> 1623.52] at the preaching -[1623.52 --> 1624.06] of Jonah -[1624.06 --> 1624.98] and they will -[1624.98 --> 1625.50] stand up -[1625.50 --> 1626.04] and condemn -[1626.04 --> 1626.58] the present -[1626.58 --> 1627.20] generations -[1627.20 --> 1628.18] of the Pharisees -[1628.18 --> 1629.08] and the Sadducees -[1629.08 --> 1630.36] who want to see -[1630.36 --> 1630.84] a sign. -[1632.88 --> 1633.66] I'll leave you -[1633.66 --> 1634.74] to debate that -[1634.74 --> 1636.00] and ponder it. -[1636.96 --> 1637.94] Was it just simply -[1637.94 --> 1639.82] a repentance -[1639.82 --> 1640.74] of lifestyle? -[1640.94 --> 1642.00] Because in a hundred -[1642.00 --> 1642.56] years, -[1642.66 --> 1643.08] Nahum, -[1643.28 --> 1643.72] the next, -[1643.86 --> 1644.52] another prophet -[1644.52 --> 1645.44] will say that -[1645.44 --> 1646.58] Nineveh is a city -[1646.58 --> 1647.10] of blood -[1647.10 --> 1648.60] and there is -[1648.60 --> 1649.36] no hope for it. -[1650.52 --> 1651.44] So if there was -[1651.44 --> 1652.00] a repentance, -[1652.00 --> 1652.92] it wasn't passed -[1652.92 --> 1654.44] on to the next -[1654.44 --> 1655.00] generation -[1655.00 --> 1656.32] of people. -[1658.32 --> 1659.68] But it was -[1659.68 --> 1661.34] a change -[1661.34 --> 1663.34] and God -[1663.34 --> 1664.70] relents. -[1665.86 --> 1666.78] And he gives -[1666.78 --> 1667.88] not only Jonah -[1667.88 --> 1670.10] but he gives -[1670.10 --> 1670.96] the Ninevites -[1670.96 --> 1672.92] a second chance, -[1673.92 --> 1675.32] another opportunity. -[1675.32 --> 1678.42] he withholds -[1678.42 --> 1680.00] his fierce anger. -[1682.14 --> 1683.06] And Jesus -[1683.06 --> 1684.18] at one point -[1684.18 --> 1686.30] comes to the city -[1686.30 --> 1686.94] of Jerusalem -[1686.94 --> 1690.72] and he cries. -[1692.72 --> 1693.78] He's not angry. -[1695.78 --> 1696.84] He's just sad. -[1696.84 --> 1697.56] Oh, -[1697.62 --> 1699.16] how I would have -[1699.16 --> 1699.88] gathered you -[1699.88 --> 1700.42] together -[1700.42 --> 1701.60] as a chick -[1701.60 --> 1702.84] gathers her wing -[1702.84 --> 1704.18] or as a hen -[1704.18 --> 1705.34] gathers her chicks -[1705.34 --> 1706.42] under her wings -[1706.42 --> 1708.14] but you -[1708.14 --> 1709.86] would not. -[1711.78 --> 1712.78] And he goes -[1712.78 --> 1713.48] into the city -[1713.48 --> 1715.52] and he gets -[1715.52 --> 1715.98] condemned -[1715.98 --> 1718.68] and he is taken -[1718.68 --> 1719.78] outside of the city -[1719.78 --> 1721.96] and he gets -[1721.96 --> 1722.46] crucified -[1722.46 --> 1724.50] and buried -[1724.50 --> 1727.14] and three days -[1727.14 --> 1727.58] later -[1727.58 --> 1729.68] the earth -[1729.68 --> 1730.34] can no longer -[1730.34 --> 1730.98] hold him -[1730.98 --> 1732.62] because his -[1732.62 --> 1733.56] father in heaven -[1733.56 --> 1735.24] opens -[1735.24 --> 1737.52] the grave -[1737.52 --> 1738.86] and Jesus -[1738.86 --> 1739.84] comes forth -[1739.84 --> 1741.88] and with Jesus -[1741.88 --> 1744.62] there is no need -[1744.62 --> 1746.38] for a do over. -[1748.38 --> 1749.66] He has paid -[1749.66 --> 1750.24] the price. -[1750.24 --> 1753.20] you are free -[1753.20 --> 1754.16] if you are -[1754.16 --> 1754.88] in him. -[1756.48 --> 1756.96] Free -[1756.96 --> 1758.48] to do what? -[1759.36 --> 1760.62] To tell a story. -[1761.88 --> 1762.86] A story -[1762.86 --> 1763.98] of how God -[1763.98 --> 1765.54] has changed -[1765.54 --> 1766.28] your life -[1766.28 --> 1768.12] and turned -[1768.12 --> 1769.16] it upside down -[1769.16 --> 1770.96] and made you -[1770.96 --> 1771.44] whole -[1771.44 --> 1772.84] and made you -[1772.84 --> 1773.30] well. -[1774.46 --> 1775.22] And when you -[1775.22 --> 1776.30] tell that story -[1776.30 --> 1778.14] you release -[1778.14 --> 1778.76] the power -[1778.76 --> 1779.38] of God -[1779.38 --> 1780.98] into the lives -[1780.98 --> 1781.50] of others. -[1781.84 --> 1782.42] Let's pray. -[1784.30 --> 1785.32] Lord our God -[1785.32 --> 1786.44] we wish -[1786.44 --> 1786.98] to walk -[1786.98 --> 1787.92] close to you -[1787.92 --> 1790.26] to trust you -[1790.26 --> 1792.16] to be obedient -[1792.16 --> 1792.78] to you -[1792.78 --> 1794.56] and yet -[1794.56 --> 1796.06] in all honesty -[1796.06 --> 1797.22] we run from you -[1797.22 --> 1798.40] from time to time -[1798.40 --> 1798.74] because -[1798.74 --> 1799.82] we think -[1799.82 --> 1800.68] what you are asking -[1800.68 --> 1801.26] of us -[1801.26 --> 1802.02] is too much -[1802.02 --> 1803.40] and sometimes -[1803.40 --> 1804.14] we even think -[1804.14 --> 1804.76] it is ridiculous. -[1804.76 --> 1807.70] and yet -[1807.70 --> 1808.68] you ask us -[1808.68 --> 1809.62] simply to trust -[1809.62 --> 1809.94] you -[1809.94 --> 1810.78] and to trust -[1810.78 --> 1811.32] the power -[1811.32 --> 1812.12] of the story -[1812.12 --> 1813.44] that you want -[1813.44 --> 1813.86] to tell. -[1815.42 --> 1816.42] We thank you -[1816.42 --> 1817.02] for the story -[1817.02 --> 1817.48] of Jesus. -[1818.16 --> 1818.62] We pray -[1818.62 --> 1819.06] that you would -[1819.06 --> 1819.96] write on our hearts -[1819.96 --> 1820.62] every word -[1820.62 --> 1822.78] and we thank you -[1822.78 --> 1823.78] that we in him -[1823.78 --> 1824.62] have an opportunity -[1824.62 --> 1825.90] to come to you -[1825.90 --> 1826.32] again -[1826.32 --> 1827.14] and again -[1827.14 --> 1827.84] and again -[1827.84 --> 1829.44] to ask for forgiveness -[1829.44 --> 1830.56] to ask for strength -[1830.56 --> 1832.30] to do what it is -[1832.30 --> 1833.28] you want us to do -[1833.28 --> 1835.04] so that your kingdom -[1835.04 --> 1835.72] comes -[1835.72 --> 1837.34] and so that your will -[1837.34 --> 1837.80] is done. -[1838.06 --> 1838.88] So hear us Lord -[1838.88 --> 1840.24] and indwell us -[1840.24 --> 1841.18] by your spirit -[1841.18 --> 1842.90] and help us -[1842.90 --> 1843.78] to repent -[1843.78 --> 1845.66] as required -[1845.66 --> 1846.78] in Jesus name -[1846.78 --> 1848.04] so that we may -[1848.04 --> 1848.88] always walk -[1848.88 --> 1850.52] close with you. -[1851.52 --> 1852.00] Amen. diff --git a/Jonah #4 The Man and His Mission (Sermon)_summary.txt b/Jonah #4 The Man and His Mission (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 754456be0dd01ad75ac9b97cb78836631afbf4ab..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Jonah #4 The Man and His Mission (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,34 +0,0 @@ -• Introducing message number four on the book of Jonah -• Exploring probing questions in biblical study and their purpose -• Summarizing the book of Jonah (Jonah ran, repented, preached, and ranted) -• Identifying the main themes of chapters 2-3 (salvation from God, repentance, taking second chances) -• Reading and interpreting chapter 4, specifically Jonah's reaction to God relenting on Nineveh -• Examining the parallels between God's compassion in Jonah and other New Testament stories -• The Lord asks Jonah probing questions about his concerns for a plant. -• Jonah answers two questions but not the third, which is left unresolved. -• Jonah's actions speak louder than his words, and he repents after being thrown overboard and swallowed by a fish. -• He preaches to Nineveh and witnesses God's compassion, becoming angry because God relents and spares them. -• Nineveh is seen as an evil nation that should be destroyed, but God shows mercy instead. -• Jonah uses spiritual disciplines to express his anger, including prayer and scripture, but does so in a critical manner rather than seeking understanding or praise. -• This behavior reveals Jonah's self-righteousness and nationalism. -• Using scripture properly involves humility, self-reflection, and recognizing one's own flaws. -• Christ's attitude towards humanity is one of humility and service -• Scripture serves to encourage believers in their relationship with God -• Jonah's story illustrates the tension between human anger and God's compassion -• The danger of justified anger and judgment, especially when considering historical atrocities like the Holocaust -• Reflection on personal biases and desires for punishment rather than forgiveness -• The character of God's concern for humanity -• A story about George, a newborn who doesn't know his right hand from his left or even his name -• Comparison between human and animal needs, with God concerned for all living things -• Jonah's reaction to being asked if he should be concerned for others like George -• The story of Jonah and its parallels in the New Testament -• Comparing Jonah's reaction to God's questioning with that of the prodigal son -• The message of salvation being available to all people, regardless of ethnicity, race, or social economic status -• The book of Hebrews' explanation for Jesus' sacrifice on the cross -• A possible authorship theory for the book of Jonah: written by Jonah himself or dictated to a secretary -• The speaker asks if they should be concerned about God's concern for them. -• Reference is made to God sending his son, Jesus, so that people can call him "our father". -• A prayer is offered thanking God for the story of Jesus and its impact on their lives. -• The speaker prays for help in understanding and seeing the depth of God's amazing grace. -• They pray for freedom from the chains that bind them and for growth into that freedom. -• They ask to demonstrate this freedom through attitudes and behaviors that honor God and glorify Jesus. \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Jonah #4 The Man and His Mission (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/Jonah #4 The Man and His Mission (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a1d40ced27a959938eb0d9b38111308cc70217a2..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Jonah #4 The Man and His Mission (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,552 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.02] Well, good morning again. A number of weeks ago when I first came, I said I was going to -[6.02 --> 11.62] share four messages on the book of Jonah, and today is message number four. -[12.78 --> 19.08] And before we read from Jonah chapter four, just a reminder that I also challenged in the very -[19.08 --> 26.22] first sermon for you to think about where was there a parallel story in the New Testament -[26.22 --> 31.98] that would teach a similar lesson, and I hope you've thought about that over the last number -[31.98 --> 37.48] of weeks, and towards the end of the sermon, I'll share what I think is that parallel story -[37.48 --> 45.34] that arises out of the story of Jonah, but also out of the nature of the story and the -[45.34 --> 47.40] structure of the story itself. -[47.40 --> 54.40] I wonder if you've ever been asked a probing question. -[54.40 --> 63.24] Now, that's probably happened to you, whether or not it's apparent, why did you do that? -[63.24 --> 71.80] Or a teacher in an oral examination who says to you, please provide me three reasons for -[71.80 --> 78.14] the outbreak of, say, the Second World War. -[78.14 --> 84.68] Or perhaps at a job interview, just like was alluded to with Pastor Chris. -[84.68 --> 96.10] Well, what passage of Scripture would you use to encourage people to step forward into a task? -[96.10 --> 101.44] Or perhaps a police officer pulls you over and say, what's your hurry? -[101.44 --> 104.44] And you have to think. -[104.44 --> 115.76] See, a probing question is by its nature a question that strives towards understanding. -[115.76 --> 125.38] It wants to make you go a little deeper and search out matters a little more thoroughly. -[125.38 --> 127.72] So we have been looking at the story of Jonah. -[127.72 --> 135.52] There are many questions that you could ask about Jonah the person, Jonah the prophet, Jonah -[135.52 --> 136.86] the writer. -[136.86 --> 138.46] Did he write the book himself? -[138.46 --> 140.14] Did he relate the book to others? -[140.14 --> 147.58] Those are all probing, biblical study, theological questions. -[147.58 --> 151.12] Or one could ask the question, summarize the book of Jonah. -[151.12 --> 153.12] And you can do it this way. -[153.12 --> 155.40] Jonah ran. -[155.40 --> 157.46] Jonah repented. -[157.46 --> 161.18] Jonah preached repentance. -[161.18 --> 164.64] Jonah ranted and raved. -[164.64 --> 165.74] Jonah with R's. -[165.74 --> 167.46] Jonah ran. -[167.46 --> 169.46] Jonah repented. -[169.46 --> 172.24] Jonah preached repentance. -[172.24 --> 177.12] Jonah ranted and raved. -[177.12 --> 184.98] And then you could be asked a more probing question, is that really what the story is about? -[184.98 --> 193.70] Maybe you should say, if you run, you cannot hide from the God of the Hebrews because he -[193.70 --> 199.18] is the creator of the heavens and the earth and he will send a storm in your way to stop -[199.18 --> 201.84] you from running. -[201.84 --> 204.30] Or, you know, that's the identity issue. -[204.30 --> 207.16] Or the chapter two. -[207.16 --> 212.86] When you're going down, look up. -[212.86 --> 218.06] And learn that salvation is from the Lord. -[218.06 --> 221.76] Or in chapter three. -[221.76 --> 228.70] When you are given a second chance, take it. -[228.70 --> 233.32] And Jonah was told again, and then he went and he preached repentance. -[233.32 --> 236.56] Well, what would we say about chapter four? -[236.56 --> 238.70] Well, let's take, let's read chapter four. -[238.70 --> 244.66] And I want to begin by reading the last verse of chapter three. -[244.66 --> 250.84] Now chapter three gives the story of Jonah going to preach repentance in Nineveh. -[250.84 --> 258.32] And there is this collective response from the citizens of Nineveh, from the king to the least -[258.32 --> 263.36] person in terms of the social economic strata. -[263.36 --> 267.08] They're all wearing sackcloth and ashes. -[267.08 --> 269.08] And then chapter three ends with these words. -[269.08 --> 276.32] When God saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, he relented. -[276.84 --> 278.40] Take a note of that word. -[278.82 --> 283.86] He relented and did not bring on them the destructions he had threatened. -[285.24 --> 289.46] But to Jonah, this seemed very wrong. -[289.86 --> 291.62] And he became angry. -[291.62 --> 298.70] Let me just stop there for a moment and point out that you could translate the Hebrew to -[298.70 --> 302.86] Jonah, this seemed to be evil. -[305.38 --> 308.78] To say this seemed to be wrong misses the point. -[308.78 --> 311.16] Now, what is evil? -[311.46 --> 312.40] What is wrong? -[312.74 --> 316.02] Well, the relenting of God. -[317.50 --> 319.42] The relenting of God. -[319.42 --> 322.00] To Jonah, this seemed very wrong. -[322.10 --> 323.14] And he became angry. -[323.82 --> 329.58] And he prayed to the Lord, isn't this what I said, Lord, when I was still at home, that -[329.58 --> 332.74] this is what I tried to forestall by fleeing to Tarshish? -[333.18 --> 341.72] I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God -[341.72 --> 344.16] who relents from sending calamity. -[344.16 --> 348.86] Now, Lord, take away my life. -[349.32 --> 352.18] For it is better for me to die than to live. -[354.24 --> 360.54] But the Lord replied, probing, is it right for you to be angry? -[361.84 --> 365.86] Jonah had gone out and sat down at a place east of the city. -[366.44 --> 371.60] There he made himself a shelter, sat in a shade, and waited to see what would happen to the city. -[371.60 --> 379.30] Then the Lord provided a leafy plant and made it grow up over Jonah to give shade for his head to ease his discomfort. -[379.58 --> 381.96] And Jonah was very happy about the plant. -[382.90 --> 389.08] But at dawn the next day, God provided a worm, which chewed the plant so that it withered. -[389.08 --> 397.16] When the sun rose, God provided a scorching east wind, and the sun blazed on Jonah's head so that he grew faint. -[397.72 --> 403.26] He wanted to die and said, it would be better for me to die than to live. -[404.06 --> 411.06] But God said to Jonah, probing, is it right for you to be angry about the plant? -[411.06 --> 415.70] It is, he said, and I am so angry, I wish I were dead. -[416.92 --> 422.72] But the Lord said, you have been concerned about this plant, though you did not tend it or make it grow. -[423.30 --> 425.84] It sprang up overnight and died overnight. -[427.42 --> 428.60] Notice it's a question. -[428.60 --> 444.54] This is the word of the Lord. -[445.70 --> 448.54] Have you ever been asked a probing question? -[449.74 --> 454.12] Well, Jonah gets asked three probing questions. -[454.12 --> 456.26] He answers two. -[456.72 --> 458.82] He doesn't answer the third. -[459.88 --> 460.92] That is left. -[462.08 --> 469.76] He answers the first one by going out and sitting east of the city. -[470.58 --> 472.30] And the question is, why? -[472.42 --> 473.44] Well, there are hills there. -[475.42 --> 479.76] And he could now sit on a hill and look down. -[479.76 --> 492.50] Jonah does not articulate anything. -[492.64 --> 495.16] Later he will say, yeah, it is right for me to be angry. -[495.44 --> 498.98] But in this case, he does not give an answer. -[500.52 --> 505.66] But we know that actions speak louder than words. -[505.66 --> 512.02] And Jonah's actions have been demonstrated throughout this story. -[512.36 --> 514.36] He hears a word and he runs. -[514.78 --> 518.16] He gets thrown overboard and swallowed by a huge fish. -[518.34 --> 519.78] And he repents. -[520.14 --> 523.94] He hears a word and he takes action. -[524.94 --> 526.32] He goes and he preaches. -[527.32 --> 530.76] And then he watches the compassion of God. -[531.58 --> 532.84] And he's mad. -[533.68 --> 535.42] He is angry. -[535.66 --> 537.96] He is furious. -[539.24 --> 539.86] Why? -[539.86 --> 543.06] Because God has relented. -[544.26 --> 549.92] And Nineveh, in Jonah's judgment, is a nation that ought to be destroyed. -[550.64 --> 551.84] They are evil people. -[552.20 --> 554.40] They are enemies of Israel. -[554.92 --> 556.28] They are a danger. -[556.72 --> 564.14] Indeed, a number of decades from this point, Assyria, of which Nineveh was the capital, -[564.14 --> 569.34] grew strong enough to take the northern part of Israel into captivity and it disappeared. -[569.34 --> 573.54] Jonah wanted them destroyed. -[573.54 --> 577.32] And he is angry. -[577.32 --> 583.54] And he uses spiritual disciplines to express his anger. -[583.54 --> 584.54] He prays to the Lord. -[584.54 --> 585.28] He prays to the Lord. -[585.28 --> 589.06] And basically he says, I told you so. -[590.06 --> 591.30] I told you so. -[592.94 --> 597.48] You are a God of compassion and grace. -[597.48 --> 599.48] He prays to the Lord. -[599.48 --> 600.48] He prays to the Lord. -[600.48 --> 601.68] He prays to the Lord. -[601.68 --> 603.68] He prays to the Lord. -[603.68 --> 604.78] He prays to God. -[604.78 --> 605.76] Not to praise him. -[605.76 --> 606.88] Not to thank him. -[607.88 --> 610.42] But he prays to God to criticize him. -[611.90 --> 616.10] And then he uses scripture to buttress his criticism. -[616.10 --> 621.86] These words that Jonah uses come from Exodus chapter 34 verses 6 and 7. -[621.86 --> 628.92] And that's the particular story where Moses has asked God to reveal himself to Moses. -[630.04 --> 631.82] And God says, that's fine. -[632.28 --> 637.20] But you can only see my back because you cannot see my face. -[637.76 --> 639.22] And we have a song. -[639.34 --> 644.48] He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock and covers me there with his hand. -[644.48 --> 647.82] So Jonah uses scripture. -[649.38 --> 650.44] Makes you think. -[651.72 --> 653.88] Makes you probe your own actions. -[654.50 --> 656.46] How do I use prayer? -[658.14 --> 659.68] How do I use scripture? -[660.78 --> 665.62] Timothy Keller in a very provocative book that he has on Jonah called The Prodigal Prophet -[665.62 --> 670.84] says that when you use scripture you ought to think very clearly about your use of it. -[671.28 --> 673.20] You shouldn't be bludgeoning people with it. -[673.20 --> 675.58] You shouldn't be bludgeoning God with it. -[676.48 --> 678.60] You shouldn't be using it as a crowbar. -[679.66 --> 684.08] You use it as a mirror to reflect upon yourself. -[685.18 --> 691.62] And Keller says when you use scripture properly it evokes within you a sense of humility. -[691.62 --> 695.70] I know who I am. -[696.90 --> 697.80] I'm a sinner. -[698.94 --> 700.16] I'm self-centered. -[701.12 --> 702.30] I'm a nationalist. -[703.14 --> 704.44] I'm a legalist. -[704.98 --> 706.88] All of those things Jonah was. -[707.34 --> 711.06] Jonah didn't care about the Ninevites as people. -[712.16 --> 713.34] They were enemies. -[714.10 --> 715.32] A threat to his nation. -[716.26 --> 716.94] Get rid of them. -[716.94 --> 719.50] He was a legalist. -[720.06 --> 721.70] I told you so. -[723.06 --> 724.64] He was self-righteous. -[725.68 --> 729.46] Well I'm a recipient of grace but they don't deserve it. -[730.16 --> 730.90] I do. -[731.38 --> 732.16] They don't. -[732.16 --> 739.54] Humility is one thing that needs to come when you look at yourself through the scripture. -[740.80 --> 742.36] Critique needs to come. -[743.32 --> 745.18] I could do this better. -[746.26 --> 749.18] You know think we heard this morning the words of Philippians. -[749.62 --> 754.30] Have this attitude amongst yourselves which is also the attitude of Christ Jesus. -[754.30 --> 761.20] As though he was in the form of God he emptied himself and took on the form of a servant. -[762.82 --> 767.64] And you ask yourself how well am I doing in that regard? -[767.64 --> 774.08] And then Keller points out one more function of scripture and that is to encourage. -[775.36 --> 780.02] To encourage you in your relationship with God because the Lord is your shepherd. -[780.64 --> 781.92] The Lord is your father. -[782.50 --> 784.42] The Lord wants a relationship with you. -[784.88 --> 786.14] He cares for you deeply. -[786.14 --> 797.54] And he will probe and confront you as he does me until he gets his way in our lives. -[799.82 --> 801.94] Is it right for you to be angry? -[804.80 --> 806.36] And Jonah said yeah it is. -[808.04 --> 815.42] And I'm thinking that by prayer and by using scripture I can get you to change your mind. -[815.42 --> 817.46] So I'm going to go sit in the hills. -[818.22 --> 819.34] I'm going to make a shelter. -[820.08 --> 821.68] And I'm going to watch what you do. -[822.48 --> 827.56] And I will approve if you do a Hiroshima and a Nagasaki on Nineveh. -[827.90 --> 833.08] I will approve if you do a Beirut of August 2020 on Nineveh. -[833.32 --> 840.48] I will approve if you drop an atomic bomb or if you let ammonia nitrate explode in the middle of that city. -[840.72 --> 842.54] And all of those people get destroyed. -[842.54 --> 844.32] I will approve. -[844.32 --> 847.32] As a matter of fact I will no longer be angry. -[850.68 --> 852.26] And then ask yourself. -[853.58 --> 857.96] What is my attitude towards people who are different than I? -[859.10 --> 860.56] Who challenge me? -[861.80 --> 863.80] Who maybe even threaten me? -[865.48 --> 869.50] Who would I rather see punished than forgiven? -[869.50 --> 875.02] Who would I rather see punished than forgiven? -[877.96 --> 883.44] And God comes to Jonah and allows a leafy plant to grow up. -[883.50 --> 888.52] We have no idea what sort of plant that is but it must have grown quickly and had broad leaves. -[888.52 --> 893.28] And for the first time in the story Jonah is happy. -[894.40 --> 899.02] For the first time he gets what he thinks he deserves. -[899.98 --> 904.32] For the first time Jonah is appreciative. -[905.98 --> 912.20] Because it's cool sitting here waiting to see what will happen. -[912.20 --> 919.70] Will there be a Hiroshima, Nagasaki, Beirut dumped upon Nineveh upon these people? -[921.78 --> 928.52] And then overnight God sends a worm and the leafy plant dies. -[928.98 --> 931.70] And God sends a hot wind. -[932.70 --> 934.14] And Jonah grows faint. -[934.14 --> 937.82] And Jonah complains. -[937.96 --> 943.28] He says it would be better for me to die. -[946.74 --> 947.34] Stop. -[947.46 --> 948.52] Think about that for a moment. -[950.04 --> 954.64] The amount of despair that Jonah feels personally. -[954.64 --> 962.02] It is better for me to die than to see the compassion of God at work. -[964.34 --> 966.22] It demands reflection. -[968.14 --> 971.34] Reflection on myself and in myself. -[971.90 --> 976.40] Who would I rather see punished than forgiven? -[976.40 --> 981.74] And God comes with a probing question. -[981.84 --> 983.10] Is it right for you to be angry? -[984.04 --> 985.08] Yes it is. -[986.86 --> 987.80] Yes it is. -[987.86 --> 990.14] Who are you to ask me a question like that? -[990.18 --> 991.70] Because I am uncomfortable. -[992.36 --> 993.44] It is hot. -[994.08 --> 995.98] And I'm disappointed in you. -[996.18 --> 999.66] Because you haven't thrown the bomb yet on those people. -[1000.42 --> 1001.60] Yes it is. -[1003.74 --> 1005.06] You ever felt that way? -[1006.40 --> 1008.24] Justified in your anger? -[1009.54 --> 1014.76] Justified in your judgment on people you would rather see destroyed than forgiven? -[1016.76 --> 1018.30] I think we all have. -[1019.24 --> 1024.32] It is hard to read the history of the Second World War and not to be angry. -[1025.40 --> 1030.18] Not to be angry at the blatant destruction of about 10 million people. -[1030.84 --> 1032.52] 6 million of whom were Jews. -[1033.08 --> 1036.18] And they were executed simply because of their ethnicity. -[1036.40 --> 1044.40] And about 4 million were people whether they were gypsies or people with social and physical calamity. -[1045.32 --> 1050.32] Or people who were just not of the right color to fit in. -[1050.32 --> 1063.80] And when I look at that from a historical personal perspective I think I'd rather see those folks who did that executed than forgiven. -[1063.80 --> 1076.72] Except then that famous phrase there but for the grace of God go I kicks in. -[1078.72 --> 1082.64] There but for the grace of God go I. -[1082.64 --> 1083.32] There but for the grace of God go I. -[1083.32 --> 1084.12] There but for the grace of God. -[1084.24 --> 1086.48] Is it right for you to end, I think I would rather see my sin and will be angry. -[1086.48 --> 1087.94] Yes it is. -[1088.02 --> 1093.48] It is better for me now to die than to live. -[1093.48 --> 1096.66] this is not a casual feeling -[1096.66 --> 1099.10] this is something that's rooted -[1099.10 --> 1100.20] deep -[1100.20 --> 1102.10] within Jonah -[1102.10 --> 1107.14] and then God asks -[1107.14 --> 1109.22] another question -[1109.22 --> 1113.06] he makes Jonah consider -[1113.06 --> 1115.06] and I've got to get the wording right on this -[1115.06 --> 1116.72] he makes Jonah consider -[1116.72 --> 1119.64] the character of God -[1119.64 --> 1122.66] notice this -[1122.66 --> 1124.22] and should I not -[1124.22 --> 1125.74] have concern -[1125.74 --> 1128.36] for the great city of Nineveh -[1128.36 --> 1130.18] in which there are more than -[1130.18 --> 1131.94] 120,000 people -[1131.94 --> 1134.64] who cannot tell their right hand from their left -[1134.64 --> 1136.90] and also many animals -[1136.90 --> 1138.96] should -[1138.96 --> 1140.20] I -[1140.20 --> 1142.26] not have -[1142.26 --> 1143.32] concern -[1143.32 --> 1148.54] now Jonah has -[1148.54 --> 1150.56] to make a switch he's no longer -[1150.56 --> 1152.00] thinking about himself -[1152.00 --> 1154.44] and about his anger -[1154.44 --> 1157.84] he now has to think -[1157.84 --> 1161.12] because of this probing question -[1161.12 --> 1163.58] about the character -[1163.58 --> 1165.22] of God -[1165.22 --> 1170.30] should I not have concern -[1170.30 --> 1174.94] God lays out a few details -[1174.94 --> 1177.24] it is a great city -[1177.24 --> 1180.78] it is an expansive city -[1180.78 --> 1182.62] and in that city there are -[1182.62 --> 1185.04] hundreds of thousands of people -[1185.04 --> 1189.22] 120,000 of whom -[1189.22 --> 1191.22] do not know their right hand -[1191.22 --> 1192.62] from their left hand -[1192.62 --> 1194.56] in other words -[1194.56 --> 1195.60] their kids -[1195.60 --> 1198.32] their little kids -[1198.32 --> 1201.16] there was an amazing -[1201.16 --> 1203.50] picture on the news this week -[1203.50 --> 1206.36] about the explosion in Beirut -[1206.36 --> 1207.88] a father was filming -[1207.88 --> 1209.94] as his wife was -[1209.94 --> 1213.18] being rolled into the delivery room -[1213.18 --> 1214.98] for their first child -[1214.98 --> 1216.44] to be born -[1216.44 --> 1217.72] and just as -[1217.72 --> 1219.10] the gurney -[1219.10 --> 1220.68] went into the delivery room -[1220.68 --> 1222.12] the explosion took place -[1222.12 --> 1224.60] and you see the whole delivery room structure -[1224.60 --> 1225.56] just collapse -[1226.12 --> 1227.98] and there is glass -[1227.98 --> 1229.02] all over the place -[1229.02 --> 1229.98] and there is dust -[1229.98 --> 1230.56] and debris -[1230.56 --> 1231.46] all over the place -[1231.46 --> 1232.42] this had been -[1232.42 --> 1233.40] I would assume -[1233.40 --> 1234.96] a fairly sterile -[1234.96 --> 1236.28] situation -[1236.28 --> 1240.04] father got up -[1240.04 --> 1242.72] child was born -[1242.72 --> 1243.92] they named him George -[1243.92 --> 1248.16] and it got on the national news -[1248.16 --> 1250.12] the Canadian national news -[1250.12 --> 1253.90] because of a remarkable moment -[1253.90 --> 1255.52] but you know George -[1255.52 --> 1257.52] who is now less than a week old -[1257.52 --> 1260.02] George doesn't know his right hand -[1260.02 --> 1261.12] from his left hand -[1261.12 --> 1264.18] George doesn't even know his name -[1264.18 --> 1266.78] George doesn't know -[1266.78 --> 1268.12] that his picture -[1268.12 --> 1269.70] has been broadcast -[1269.70 --> 1270.96] around the world -[1270.96 --> 1273.78] George just knows -[1273.78 --> 1275.52] when his diaper is wet -[1275.52 --> 1276.80] and his stomach is empty -[1276.80 --> 1279.10] that's what George knows -[1279.10 --> 1280.68] and George knows -[1280.68 --> 1281.48] that his mother -[1281.48 --> 1283.20] seems to be the source -[1283.20 --> 1285.26] and answer to his most immediate needs -[1285.26 --> 1286.20] and every once in a while -[1286.20 --> 1287.26] dad shows up too -[1287.26 --> 1289.42] that's what George knows -[1289.42 --> 1294.48] his parents are concerned for him -[1294.48 --> 1299.22] God is concerned for him -[1299.22 --> 1302.82] should he not be concerned -[1302.82 --> 1304.88] for people who do not know -[1304.88 --> 1305.84] their right hand -[1305.84 --> 1307.26] from their left hand -[1307.26 --> 1309.70] and of course we say -[1309.70 --> 1311.24] of course you should be concerned -[1311.24 --> 1313.02] and then he says -[1313.02 --> 1315.94] and there are many animals besides -[1315.94 --> 1319.06] many animals besides -[1319.06 --> 1321.82] you know soon it will be Thanksgiving -[1321.82 --> 1323.84] it's only a couple months away -[1323.84 --> 1325.68] and a song will sing -[1325.68 --> 1327.04] let all things now living -[1327.04 --> 1328.38] a song of thanksgiving -[1328.38 --> 1329.68] to God the creator -[1329.68 --> 1331.84] triumphantly raise -[1331.84 --> 1334.04] who fashioned and made us -[1334.04 --> 1336.06] protected and stayed us -[1336.06 --> 1338.26] who guides us and leads us -[1338.26 --> 1340.78] to the ends of our days -[1340.78 --> 1342.86] God's concerned for us -[1342.86 --> 1345.02] but he's concerned for all -[1345.02 --> 1347.44] living things -[1347.44 --> 1353.32] should I not be concerned -[1353.32 --> 1357.70] and I look -[1357.70 --> 1359.42] and I listen -[1359.42 --> 1361.84] to the needs in the world -[1361.84 --> 1365.30] and should I not be concerned -[1365.30 --> 1367.62] as an image bearer of God -[1367.62 --> 1371.44] Jonah sat outside the city -[1371.44 --> 1372.78] and waited -[1372.78 --> 1376.84] Jesus stood outside the city -[1376.84 --> 1378.48] and wept -[1378.48 --> 1381.20] how I would have gathered you -[1381.20 --> 1382.80] as a hen gathers her chicks -[1382.80 --> 1384.12] under her wings -[1384.12 --> 1387.80] but you would not -[1387.80 --> 1389.16] but he didn't get angry -[1389.16 --> 1392.36] he just kept writing -[1392.36 --> 1394.72] until they arrested him -[1394.72 --> 1395.84] crucified him -[1395.84 --> 1396.84] buried him -[1396.84 --> 1399.38] and then he confronted them -[1399.38 --> 1400.00] with saying -[1400.00 --> 1401.16] there's a new day -[1401.16 --> 1402.94] a new day -[1402.94 --> 1403.88] a new day has dawned -[1403.88 --> 1406.32] and we're going to celebrate life -[1406.32 --> 1408.52] and the message of salvation -[1408.52 --> 1410.16] comes to the world -[1410.16 --> 1411.44] through the Jews -[1411.44 --> 1413.12] but it is for all people -[1413.12 --> 1414.82] regardless of ethnicity -[1414.82 --> 1415.88] and race -[1415.88 --> 1418.50] it is for all people -[1418.50 --> 1421.58] regardless of social economic status -[1421.58 --> 1424.40] it is for all people -[1424.40 --> 1428.02] regardless of gender orientation -[1428.02 --> 1431.60] it is for those -[1431.60 --> 1432.60] who are made -[1432.60 --> 1433.64] in the image -[1433.64 --> 1434.70] of my father -[1434.70 --> 1435.38] salvation -[1435.38 --> 1437.26] is from -[1437.26 --> 1438.64] the Lord -[1438.64 --> 1442.08] but notice -[1442.08 --> 1444.82] that Jonah has -[1444.82 --> 1446.18] no reply -[1446.18 --> 1448.30] to the question -[1448.30 --> 1449.76] should I -[1449.76 --> 1450.44] not -[1450.44 --> 1451.02] be -[1451.02 --> 1451.80] concerned -[1451.80 --> 1453.40] there's no answer -[1453.40 --> 1456.02] and here's the key -[1456.02 --> 1457.28] anybody have an idea -[1457.28 --> 1458.22] you can speak up -[1458.22 --> 1460.06] what story I'm thinking of -[1460.06 --> 1462.08] in terms of the New Testament -[1462.08 --> 1463.00] that parallels -[1463.00 --> 1465.02] the Old Testament story of Jonah -[1465.02 --> 1467.96] the prodigal son -[1467.96 --> 1469.98] or the parable of the waiting father -[1469.98 --> 1471.90] Jonah 1 and 2 -[1471.90 --> 1473.74] is the story of Jonah running -[1473.74 --> 1475.76] and repenting -[1475.76 --> 1479.10] the story of the youngest son -[1479.10 --> 1481.60] chapters 3 and 4 -[1481.60 --> 1483.42] is the story of the oldest son -[1483.42 --> 1485.84] who rants and raves -[1485.84 --> 1487.26] at his father's generosity -[1487.26 --> 1489.72] and his father goes out to him -[1489.72 --> 1490.92] and invites him to come in -[1490.92 --> 1491.68] but -[1491.68 --> 1493.10] we're not told -[1493.10 --> 1495.48] if the oldest son comes in or not -[1495.48 --> 1498.66] and we're not told -[1498.66 --> 1501.04] what Jonah's reaction is -[1501.04 --> 1504.04] and there is a clear reason for it -[1504.04 --> 1505.78] because I'm Jonah -[1505.78 --> 1508.24] and you're Jonah -[1508.24 --> 1512.72] and we need to answer God's probing question -[1512.72 --> 1516.66] is it right for you to be angry -[1516.66 --> 1520.88] should I not be concerned -[1520.88 --> 1524.30] answer this question -[1524.30 --> 1526.18] who would you rather see judged -[1526.18 --> 1526.98] and condemned -[1526.98 --> 1529.68] rather than forgiven -[1529.68 --> 1533.54] and God comes and he says -[1533.54 --> 1535.14] I sent my son -[1535.14 --> 1538.34] and he endured the cross -[1538.34 --> 1539.70] why? -[1539.84 --> 1541.02] well the book of Hebrews says -[1541.02 --> 1543.12] for the joy that was set before him -[1543.12 --> 1546.12] so that he might be able to gather -[1546.12 --> 1548.96] the Jonas of this world in -[1548.96 --> 1552.38] along with all the repentant people -[1552.38 --> 1555.04] regardless of their background -[1555.04 --> 1557.56] regardless of their color -[1557.56 --> 1559.96] regardless of their language -[1559.96 --> 1561.60] regardless of -[1561.60 --> 1563.02] and you fill in the blank -[1563.02 --> 1565.06] that I might gather -[1565.06 --> 1566.30] for God so -[1566.30 --> 1567.24] loved -[1567.24 --> 1568.36] the world -[1568.36 --> 1571.12] there is a -[1571.12 --> 1572.06] commentator -[1572.06 --> 1573.28] who says -[1573.28 --> 1574.58] the book of Jonah -[1574.58 --> 1575.34] was written -[1575.34 --> 1576.18] by Jonah -[1576.18 --> 1576.74] who told -[1576.74 --> 1577.72] either by himself -[1577.72 --> 1579.08] or who told the story -[1579.08 --> 1579.90] to a secretary -[1579.90 --> 1581.02] who wrote it down -[1581.02 --> 1583.10] in order to share -[1583.10 --> 1583.94] with his people -[1583.94 --> 1585.80] that he got it -[1585.80 --> 1586.40] in the end -[1586.40 --> 1587.78] and that's why -[1587.78 --> 1588.80] he shared the story -[1588.80 --> 1591.52] that's a nice way -[1591.52 --> 1592.32] to think about it -[1592.32 --> 1592.90] I think -[1592.90 --> 1595.46] but I want to ask -[1595.46 --> 1597.60] what is your response -[1597.60 --> 1599.36] as I need to ask -[1599.36 --> 1600.56] what is my response -[1600.56 --> 1601.52] to the quote -[1601.52 --> 1603.36] probing question of God -[1603.36 --> 1608.32] should I not be concerned -[1608.32 --> 1611.52] and God's concerned -[1611.52 --> 1612.06] for me -[1612.06 --> 1614.28] he's concerned -[1614.28 --> 1614.86] for you -[1614.86 --> 1617.24] he sent his son -[1617.24 --> 1619.04] so that we might -[1619.04 --> 1619.80] call him -[1619.80 --> 1621.38] our father -[1621.38 --> 1622.18] let's pray -[1622.18 --> 1624.08] father God -[1624.08 --> 1624.90] we thank you -[1624.90 --> 1627.22] thank you for the story -[1627.22 --> 1628.64] and for all the thinking -[1628.64 --> 1629.46] it provokes -[1629.46 --> 1630.44] to us -[1630.44 --> 1631.32] in our lives -[1631.32 --> 1633.38] it is our prayer -[1633.38 --> 1634.02] Lord God -[1634.02 --> 1634.62] that as -[1634.62 --> 1635.88] we reflect on it -[1635.88 --> 1636.92] in days ahead -[1636.92 --> 1638.64] that you would -[1638.64 --> 1639.72] help us to see -[1639.72 --> 1640.38] and understand -[1640.38 --> 1641.10] the depth -[1641.10 --> 1641.94] and the dimensions -[1641.94 --> 1643.50] of your amazing grace -[1643.50 --> 1644.90] and the fact -[1644.90 --> 1645.98] that in Christ -[1645.98 --> 1647.50] we are set free -[1647.50 --> 1648.58] from all the chains -[1648.58 --> 1649.48] that bind us -[1649.48 --> 1651.62] we pray that we may -[1651.62 --> 1653.16] grow into that freedom -[1653.16 --> 1654.96] that we may become -[1654.96 --> 1656.34] celebrative of it -[1656.34 --> 1658.14] and that we may be able -[1658.14 --> 1658.86] to demonstrate -[1658.86 --> 1659.64] that freedom -[1659.64 --> 1661.14] the attitudes -[1661.14 --> 1662.32] and the behaviors -[1662.32 --> 1663.34] that we have -[1663.34 --> 1665.46] attitudes and behaviors -[1665.46 --> 1666.38] that honor you -[1666.38 --> 1667.48] and glorify Jesus -[1667.48 --> 1669.08] for the great gift -[1669.08 --> 1670.16] of amazing grace -[1670.16 --> 1671.46] in his name we pray -[1671.46 --> 1673.00] amen -[1673.00 --> 1675.40] to give you特別 -[1675.54 --> 1676.42] upon -[1676.42 --> 1678.38] shand -[1678.38 --> 1680.18] and -[1680.18 --> 1682.26] to -[1683.60 --> 1683.74] listen -[1683.74 --> 1686.12] to -[1688.78 --> 1689.16] and -[1689.16 --> 1690.76] you diff --git "a/Joseph #1\342\200\224The \342\200\234Meanwhile\342\200\235 of Faith (Sermon)_summary.txt" "b/Joseph #1\342\200\224The \342\200\234Meanwhile\342\200\235 of Faith (Sermon)_summary.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 65998c3aa85d0732647d25dddca513828fa5cfde..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Joseph #1\342\200\224The \342\200\234Meanwhile\342\200\235 of Faith (Sermon)_summary.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,61 +0,0 @@ -• Jacob lives in the land where his father had stayed with a large family, including multiple wives and children -• Joseph's brothers are jealous of him because their father loves him more and makes an ornate robe for him -• Joseph has two dreams that he shares with his brothers, which further fuels their jealousy -• The brothers plot to kill Joseph but eventually decide to sell him as a slave instead -• Jacob is tricked into believing that a wild animal killed Joseph, leading to a period of mourning and grief -• Meanwhile, the Midianites sold Joseph in Egypt to Potiphar, an official of Pharaoh. -• The speaker's father wrote a book called "On the Move" which is a genealogy of their family with commentary. -• The book includes stories about God's providence in their lives, including how they ended up in Canada. -• A specific story from the book tells how the Christian Reformed Church in Clinton, Ontario chose the speaker's father as pastor over another candidate because it would be cheaper to bring him from the Netherlands than the other candidate from BC. -• The speaker believes that God's fingerprints are evident throughout their family's history. -• The Joseph story in Genesis is a major theme that ties together God's promise of blessing to Abraham and its narrowing down through the generations. -• The Joseph story is not just about Joseph, but about how all members of his family are transformed and changed over time. -• Genesis 37 story is about God's loving and saving purposes in history -• Jacob's family is a blended one, with 12 sons by four different mothers -• Joseph is favored by his father Jacob and has two dreams that foretell his greatness -• The dreams are believed to be from God and indicate Joseph's special role -• Joseph interprets the dreams but does so with self-importance and a desire for attention -• Joseph shares his dreams with his family, predicting his brothers will bow down to him -• The family reacts negatively and Father Jacob eventually rebukes Joseph for talking like this -• Envy begins to grow among Joseph's brothers, creating tension in the household -• Jacob sends Joseph on a mission to check on his brothers' flock, which becomes a spying mission -• The chance encounter between Joseph and the stranger is crucial to the story -• Joseph would not have found his brothers and been rescued from a false accusation if it wasn't for this encounter -• He wouldn't have ended up on a trading caravan in Egypt, saving both his people and Egyptians -• His brothers' plot against him was hatched quickly after they recognized him at a distance -• Reuben suggested putting Joseph in a pit temporarily to rescue him later, but Judah eventually convinced the Midianites to sell Joseph into slavery -• The transaction took place with the traders inspecting Joseph like a horse and offering various amounts of money before settling on seventeen shekels -• The story of Joseph and his brothers -• Silver coins as payment for selling a slave (Joseph) -• Dreams and their interpretation -• Sibling rivalry and family conflict -• Favoritism and its consequences -• Greed and deception -• God's presence in times of hardship and suffering -• Reflections on the complexity and evil present in the world -• The relationship between God's providence and suffering -• The world resisting God's work -• Human sin and brokenness causing unhappiness -• God bringing good out of evil situations -• The concept that Satan is used by God to serve righteous purposes -• The relationship between God and evil -• The concept of goodness being created out of evil -• The long-term vs short-term perspective on human history and the purposes of God -• The idea that God does not guarantee understanding or control over events in life -• The story of Joseph in Genesis as an example of how God can make sense of suffering -• The possibility of exile and loss of faith, and how this theme is present in the Joseph story -• The ultimate hope for redemption and restoration in God's plan -• The story of Genesis 37 is a multi-layered narrative with seeds of hope that are sown throughout. -• One seed of hope is Jacob's nagging sense that Joseph's dreams hold more significance than just vivid imagination or wishful thinking. -• Another seed of hope is the appearance of the mysterious stranger, which sets in motion events that ultimately lead to God's promise being fulfilled. -• The story implies that the appearance of the stranger was not coincidental and had a significant impact on the course of history, including the eventual deliverance of God's people from slavery in Egypt. -• God's presence and power are not limited by our inability to see or understand his plans -• Even when life seems to be going wrong, God is still present and working behind the scenes -• God's strangers in our lives can serve as reminders of his presence and faithfulness -• The story of Joseph serves as a reminder that even in difficult times, God's promises are still valid and he is working towards a greater good -• The Bible encourages readers to remember that even when things seem darkest, God's hand is still at work weaving together the tapestry of our lives -• The story of God's love and purpose is bigger than individual struggles and tragedies -• Christians have hope that in the end, all will make sense and God's promises will be fulfilled -• God will ultimately overcome human evil and empire through his continued presence and action -• Meanwhile, God has the last word, even in difficult times, and promises to continue writing his story -• Prayer or religious sentiment expressed \ No newline at end of file diff --git "a/Joseph #1\342\200\224The \342\200\234Meanwhile\342\200\235 of Faith (Sermon)_transcript.txt" "b/Joseph #1\342\200\224The \342\200\234Meanwhile\342\200\235 of Faith (Sermon)_transcript.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index d9f65f1e54d9d577655c4c501fe67845bad40748..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Joseph #1\342\200\224The \342\200\234Meanwhile\342\200\235 of Faith (Sermon)_transcript.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1321 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 11.98] So, our scripture reading this morning is Genesis 37, the entire chapter. -[13.66 --> 23.22] And as we read scripture this morning, as we go through the story of Joseph, keep in mind, this is our story. -[23.22 --> 29.00] If you are part of God's family, this is your story. -[30.00 --> 38.22] Jacob, we read, lived in the land where his father had stayed, the land of Canaan. -[39.10 --> 42.88] This is the account of Jacob's family line. -[44.12 --> 54.28] Joseph, a young man of 17, was tending the flocks with his brothers, the sons of Bilhah and the sons of Zilpah, his father's wives. -[54.68 --> 58.42] And he brought their father a bad report about them. -[58.42 --> 67.08] Now, Israel loved Joseph more than any of his other sons, because he had been born to him in his old age. -[67.64 --> 70.26] And he made an ornate robe for him. -[70.98 --> 79.02] When his brothers saw that their father loved him more than any of them, they hated him, could not speak a kind word to him. -[79.02 --> 82.64] Joseph had a dream. -[82.64 --> 87.62] And when he told it to his brothers, they hated him all the more. -[88.24 --> 90.44] He said to them, listen to this dream I had. -[90.82 --> 96.74] We were binding sheaves of grain out in the field when suddenly my sheave rose and stood upright, -[97.00 --> 101.30] while your sheaves gathered around mine and bowed down to it. -[101.30 --> 107.12] His brothers said to him, do you intend to reign over us? -[107.74 --> 109.78] Will you actually rule us? -[110.74 --> 114.38] And they hated him all the more because of his dream and what he had said. -[115.78 --> 119.20] Then he had another dream, and he told it to his brothers. -[120.26 --> 127.34] Listen, he said, I had another dream, and this time the sun and moon and 11 stars were bowing down to me. -[127.34 --> 133.32] When he told his father, as well as his brothers, his father rebuked him and said, -[133.84 --> 135.30] what is this dream you had? -[135.88 --> 141.38] Will your mother and I and your brothers actually come and bow down to the ground before you? -[143.20 --> 145.34] His brothers were jealous of him. -[146.60 --> 151.00] But his father, note, kept the matter in mind. -[151.00 --> 156.02] Now, his brothers had gone to graze their father's flocks near Shechem, -[156.20 --> 160.58] and Israel said to Joseph, as you know, your brothers are grazing the flocks near Shechem. -[160.78 --> 162.82] Come, I'm going to send you to them. -[163.64 --> 164.76] Very well, he replied. -[165.18 --> 169.36] So he said to him, go and see if all is well with your brothers and with the flocks, -[169.42 --> 171.54] and bring word back to me. -[172.48 --> 174.84] Then he sent them off from the valley of Hebron. -[175.54 --> 180.84] When Joseph arrived at Shechem, a man found him wandering around in the fields and asked him, -[181.00 --> 182.94] what are you looking for? -[183.64 --> 185.28] He replied, I'm looking for my brothers. -[185.38 --> 187.74] Can you tell me where they are grazing their flocks? -[188.76 --> 190.70] They have moved on from here, the man answered. -[190.80 --> 192.74] I heard them say, let's go to Dothan. -[193.46 --> 196.44] So Joseph went after his brothers and found them near Dothan. -[197.12 --> 201.88] But they saw him in the distance, and before he reached them, they plotted to kill him. -[202.38 --> 205.02] Here comes that dreamer, they said to each other. -[205.26 --> 208.36] Come now, let's kill him and throw him into one of these cisterns -[208.36 --> 210.86] and say that a ferocious animal devoured him. -[211.12 --> 213.06] Then we'll see what comes of his dreams. -[214.64 --> 217.28] When Reuben heard this, he tried to rescue him from their hands. -[217.52 --> 219.04] Let's not take his life, he said. -[219.18 --> 220.44] Don't shed any blood. -[220.88 --> 224.78] Throw him into the cistern here in the wilderness, but don't lay a hand on him. -[225.64 --> 229.38] Reuben said this to rescue him from them and take him back to his father. -[229.38 --> 235.60] So when Joseph came to his brothers, they stripped them of his robe, the ornate robe he was wearing, -[235.80 --> 238.06] and they took him and they threw him into the cistern. -[238.26 --> 241.06] The cistern was empty, there was no water in it. -[241.60 --> 247.28] As they sat down to eat their meal, they looked up and saw a caravan of Ishmaelites coming from Gilead. -[247.76 --> 253.66] Their camels were loaded with spices, balm, and myrrh, and they were on their way to take them down to Egypt. -[253.66 --> 259.86] Judah said to his brothers, what will we gain if we kill our brother and cover up his blood? -[260.90 --> 264.74] Come, let's sell him to the Ishmaelites and not lay our hands on him. -[264.78 --> 267.86] After all, he is our brother, our own flesh and blood. -[268.68 --> 269.72] His brothers agreed. -[270.52 --> 274.48] So when the Midianite merchants came by, his brothers pulled Joseph up out of the cistern -[274.48 --> 279.44] and sold him for 20 shekels of silver to the Ishmaelites who took him to Egypt. -[280.04 --> 283.48] When Reuben returned to the cistern and saw that Joseph was not there, -[283.66 --> 286.68] he tore his clothes, he went back to his brothers and said, -[286.92 --> 290.06] the boy isn't there, where can I turn now? -[291.28 --> 295.66] Then they got Joseph's robe, they slaughtered a goat and dipped the robe in the blood. -[296.04 --> 298.68] They took the ornate robe back to the father and said, -[299.34 --> 304.28] we found this, examine it to see whether it is your son's robe. -[304.66 --> 308.98] He recognized it and said, it is my son's robe. -[309.36 --> 312.20] Some ferocious animal has devoured him. -[312.20 --> 315.06] Joseph has surely been torn to pieces. -[316.46 --> 323.18] Then Jacob tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and mourned for his son many days. -[323.96 --> 328.76] All his sons and daughters came to comfort him, but he refused to be comforted. -[329.40 --> 334.84] No, he said, I will continue to mourn until I join my son in the grave. -[334.84 --> 337.24] So his father wept for him. -[338.68 --> 345.58] Meanwhile, meanwhile, the Midianites sold Joseph in Egypt to Potiphar, -[346.22 --> 350.02] one of Pharaoh's officials, the captain of the guard. -[350.74 --> 352.60] This is the word of the Lord. -[352.60 --> 364.22] Soon after my dad retired from the ministry, he wrote a book entitled On the Move, The Slopster Story. -[364.40 --> 369.62] It became an instant bestseller, as you can imagine, at least in our family. -[369.62 --> 375.18] It is a genealogy, actually, of our family, along with commentary. -[376.44 --> 381.86] Lots of stories describing how our family came to be as it is today. -[382.92 --> 388.18] One of my favorite stories is the one about how we ended up in Canada, -[388.18 --> 395.16] a move which obviously profoundly affected my life and for which I've always been so grateful. -[395.98 --> 396.98] Well, here's how it happened. -[397.80 --> 403.30] It was the spring of 1960, and the Christian Reformed Church of Clinton, Ontario, -[403.74 --> 406.56] had been without a pastor for a long time. -[406.56 --> 412.32] But they had come up with a slate of two persons for the congregation to vote on. -[413.12 --> 417.66] One was Reverend Louis Tamminga from Smithers, B.C. -[418.18 --> 420.88] The other was my father from the Netherlands. -[422.20 --> 425.36] Well, after a lengthy debate about the merits of both pastors, -[425.72 --> 430.18] the congregation's sentiments were clearly leaning towards Reverend Tamminga, -[430.82 --> 435.66] mostly because the younger people, who had already been in Canada for ten years, -[435.66 --> 440.58] were concerned that that other candidate might be a little bit too Dutch. -[442.42 --> 445.24] The discussion came to an abrupt end -[445.24 --> 449.04] when one of the older brothers stood up and asked, -[449.94 --> 450.48] Mr. Chairman, -[451.52 --> 457.48] what would it cost us to get Reverend Tamminga here all the way from Smithers? -[459.08 --> 462.44] Well, that would be about $2,000, the chairman said. -[463.56 --> 466.54] And Mr. Chairman, continued the older brother, -[466.78 --> 472.22] what would it cost us to bring Reverend Sloster to Clinton all the way from Holland? -[472.22 --> 475.04] The chairman answered, -[475.04 --> 479.28] well, that, since the present policy of the Dutch government -[479.28 --> 483.12] is to pay the full cost of moving immigrants to Canada, -[483.62 --> 485.94] that brother will cost us nothing. -[487.64 --> 490.80] The elder brother stood up one more time and said, -[491.14 --> 492.92] Mr. Chairman, I call the question. -[494.52 --> 495.74] And here I am. -[495.74 --> 499.38] And if you ask me, -[499.56 --> 502.82] that cheap, sorry, I mean that thrifty Dutchman -[502.82 --> 506.44] had God's fingerprints all over him. -[508.64 --> 512.08] My dad's book is full of other such stories, -[512.20 --> 515.02] stories that look back and reveal patterns -[515.02 --> 516.88] of what our family recognizes -[516.88 --> 520.80] as God's providence in our lives. -[520.80 --> 523.76] God's leading and care, -[523.90 --> 525.40] God's fingerprints, -[525.96 --> 527.64] evident in sometimes ordinary, -[528.30 --> 529.44] sometimes humorous, -[529.52 --> 530.42] sometimes sad, -[530.80 --> 533.46] sometimes obvious, -[533.86 --> 535.72] sometimes fleeting ways. -[537.00 --> 539.22] And I suspect that all of you, -[540.00 --> 543.30] looking back over your own life up to this point, -[544.04 --> 546.48] could find those same fingerprints. -[546.48 --> 550.78] It is one of the major themes -[550.78 --> 553.90] that ties together the Joseph story -[553.90 --> 556.26] told over the last 14 chapters -[556.26 --> 557.90] of the book of Genesis. -[559.66 --> 562.46] Mind you, I call it the Joseph story, -[562.92 --> 565.16] but it isn't just about Joseph. -[565.92 --> 568.72] It is part of a bigger picture that began -[568.72 --> 570.60] when God called Abraham, -[570.98 --> 572.54] the father of all believers, -[572.90 --> 574.72] and promised that in him, -[574.72 --> 577.92] he would bless all the families of the earth. -[579.34 --> 581.10] And throughout the book of Genesis, -[581.34 --> 582.74] God's promise to Abraham -[582.74 --> 585.78] gets narrowed down as you go along. -[586.14 --> 587.76] Abraham has two sons, -[588.12 --> 589.92] but God's promise of blessing, -[590.34 --> 593.16] contrary to accepted custom and tradition, -[593.96 --> 595.62] comes to the younger son Isaac -[595.62 --> 598.48] instead of the elder Ishmael. -[599.62 --> 601.16] Isaac has two sons, -[601.16 --> 603.58] but God's promise of blessing again -[603.58 --> 605.68] comes to the younger son Jacob -[605.68 --> 608.50] rather than the elder Esau. -[610.00 --> 612.30] And so the Joseph story begins -[612.30 --> 615.32] in Genesis 37 with these words, -[616.58 --> 617.82] Jacob lived in the land -[617.82 --> 619.32] where his father had stayed, -[619.66 --> 620.66] the land of Canaan. -[620.96 --> 623.72] This is the account of Jacob. -[623.72 --> 628.74] Jacob has 12 sons. -[630.28 --> 631.34] And of these 12, -[631.76 --> 635.38] Joseph is definitely the star of this story. -[636.64 --> 640.64] But it is a story about a whole family in crisis -[640.64 --> 644.24] and how all the members of this family -[644.24 --> 647.86] are transformed and changed over time. -[647.86 --> 653.82] It is also more than a history of one family. -[655.02 --> 658.02] Even though God's name is never mentioned -[658.02 --> 660.06] in this first chapter of the story, -[660.68 --> 661.34] did you notice that? -[662.38 --> 664.90] And only very sparingly in the rest, -[666.16 --> 667.92] the last chapter in Genesis -[667.92 --> 669.94] makes it absolutely clear -[669.94 --> 673.70] that this is a story about our God. -[673.70 --> 677.32] And if you know anything about the story, -[677.42 --> 678.48] even up to this point, -[678.78 --> 680.60] younger sons chosen over the elder, -[680.98 --> 681.80] meaningful dreams, -[682.20 --> 683.10] family squabbles, -[683.44 --> 685.44] flawed characters as chosen people, -[685.72 --> 687.42] you know that God's fingerprints -[687.42 --> 688.86] are all over it. -[689.74 --> 692.36] This is the story about God's loving -[692.36 --> 694.96] and saving purposes in history. -[695.24 --> 696.98] And so it is our story too. -[696.98 --> 703.26] And the mystery of how God's purposes intersect -[703.26 --> 706.90] with ordinary, messy people, -[707.68 --> 710.70] even people like you and like me. -[712.62 --> 715.30] What we find in Genesis 37 -[715.30 --> 718.42] is what we nowadays kindly refer to -[718.42 --> 721.00] as a blended family. -[721.64 --> 724.18] Although this one has been through the blender -[724.18 --> 725.90] a few more times than most. -[726.98 --> 728.06] Think of it. -[728.38 --> 729.72] Jacob has 12 sons -[729.72 --> 733.46] by four different mothers. -[734.40 --> 735.64] Two of them his wives, -[735.86 --> 737.72] two of them his wives' nannies. -[739.44 --> 740.64] And of all these sons, -[740.82 --> 743.04] Jacob loves Joseph the best. -[743.88 --> 745.98] Joseph means added. -[747.32 --> 749.82] Added to Jacob's family unexpectedly -[749.82 --> 753.08] because Rachel, his best-loved wife, -[753.12 --> 753.90] now dead, -[753.90 --> 756.00] had been childish so long -[756.00 --> 758.56] before Joseph was finally conceived. -[760.04 --> 760.64] Added, -[761.44 --> 762.80] if ye ask his brothers, -[763.20 --> 765.30] as an unwelcome afterthought. -[766.66 --> 769.28] For while Joseph is destined like greatness, -[769.78 --> 770.80] like other great men, -[770.86 --> 773.30] he could also be in insufferable pain -[773.30 --> 775.18] in a variety of places. -[776.46 --> 778.50] The very first thing you hear -[778.50 --> 780.70] about the now 17-year-old Joseph -[780.70 --> 782.92] is that he tattles on his brothers. -[784.00 --> 785.14] He brought their father -[785.14 --> 787.20] a bad report about them. -[787.56 --> 788.56] Now, I can remember -[788.56 --> 790.34] wanting to sell one of my siblings -[790.34 --> 791.52] into slavery for less. -[793.52 --> 796.28] Then, there's that dream coat of his, -[796.96 --> 798.32] which most scholars agree -[798.32 --> 799.62] was a long-sleeved, -[800.02 --> 801.90] intricately designed coat -[801.90 --> 803.28] befitting royalty. -[803.28 --> 806.16] Not a coat that is meant -[806.16 --> 807.90] for work of the sort -[807.90 --> 810.34] Joseph's brothers were expected to do. -[811.58 --> 813.08] Oh, he might have swept the porch -[813.08 --> 814.64] for his dad once in a while, -[814.84 --> 817.62] but mostly Joseph never got his hands dirty -[817.62 --> 818.76] and seemed to serve -[818.76 --> 821.14] only as dad's agent or messenger. -[824.24 --> 826.02] Jacob, of course, -[826.10 --> 828.32] is neither the first nor the last parent -[828.32 --> 830.62] to have a favored child. -[830.62 --> 834.20] wise parents, however, -[834.96 --> 837.50] try very hard not to show it. -[839.28 --> 841.48] Jacob was not so wise, -[842.48 --> 844.26] which created exactly -[844.26 --> 846.52] the kind of sibling rivalry -[846.52 --> 848.42] you would expect. -[848.88 --> 850.68] His brother, says our story, -[851.40 --> 852.62] hated Joseph, -[853.40 --> 857.36] could not speak one kind word to him. -[857.36 --> 861.06] And it's hard to blame them. -[862.74 --> 863.94] Then come the dreams. -[864.40 --> 865.58] Not the silly kind of dreams -[865.58 --> 867.20] we remember hazily, if at all, -[867.36 --> 868.64] when we wake up in the morning, -[868.68 --> 869.64] and if we do remember them, -[869.68 --> 870.44] we don't have a clue -[870.44 --> 871.36] what they might have meant. -[872.36 --> 874.48] No, these dreams mean something. -[875.00 --> 876.28] These dreams are all about -[876.28 --> 877.70] how Joseph will turn out -[877.70 --> 879.14] to be greater than his brothers, -[879.28 --> 880.90] greater even than his father. -[881.34 --> 882.74] And there is no question, -[882.94 --> 885.24] both for those who first heard this story -[885.24 --> 886.94] and we who read it today, -[887.24 --> 889.60] that these dreams came from God, -[889.76 --> 891.00] that in these dreams -[891.00 --> 892.64] we are meant to sense something -[892.64 --> 894.78] of God's plan and purposes, -[895.64 --> 897.32] that Joseph is special, -[897.42 --> 898.90] whether his brothers like it or not, -[899.40 --> 901.52] and that he will do great things -[901.52 --> 902.60] with his life, -[902.72 --> 903.92] and that in itself -[903.92 --> 905.40] is not the problem. -[907.58 --> 909.24] It is how Joseph interprets -[909.76 --> 911.90] and uses these dreams. -[911.90 --> 914.88] He describes them to his family -[914.88 --> 917.72] with an air of self-importance, -[917.80 --> 920.30] finding a sort of perverse pleasure -[920.30 --> 922.08] at the picture of his family -[922.08 --> 923.98] bowing before him. -[924.20 --> 927.82] And he ends up interpreting -[927.82 --> 930.60] the dreams with himself -[930.60 --> 934.52] rather than God at the center. -[936.56 --> 938.12] Joseph was certainly old enough -[938.12 --> 939.20] to know it would be better -[939.20 --> 940.50] to keep his dreams to himself. -[940.50 --> 944.88] But obviously not mature enough. -[946.32 --> 947.10] And so it happens -[947.10 --> 948.40] that at breakfast one day, -[948.52 --> 949.32] as they're all munching -[949.32 --> 950.58] on their bagels and lox, -[951.26 --> 952.52] he spills out his dream -[952.52 --> 953.32] about his brothers -[953.32 --> 954.70] bowing down before him. -[955.22 --> 956.32] As you can imagine, -[956.80 --> 958.90] this doesn't go over real well. -[960.16 --> 961.84] But that does not deter Joseph. -[962.86 --> 963.80] A few mornings later, -[963.86 --> 964.88] he causes his brothers -[964.88 --> 966.12] to spit out their goat's milk -[966.12 --> 967.22] by telling the same story -[967.22 --> 968.02] all over again. -[968.02 --> 969.16] Only this time, -[969.24 --> 970.52] the imagery has changed -[970.52 --> 971.84] from sheaves of wheat -[971.84 --> 973.20] to the sun and moon -[973.20 --> 974.42] and eleven stars -[974.42 --> 975.82] bowing down to him. -[976.28 --> 978.02] Which is when even Father Jacob -[978.02 --> 979.32] cannot resist the urge -[979.32 --> 981.78] to actually rebuke Joseph. -[982.88 --> 984.66] He loved Joseph and all. -[985.34 --> 986.30] But enough was enough. -[986.54 --> 987.38] Talk like this -[987.38 --> 988.86] was only going to lead -[988.86 --> 989.82] to something bad. -[989.82 --> 990.98] And while we read -[990.98 --> 991.74] that his father -[991.74 --> 993.36] kept the matter in mind, -[993.80 --> 994.58] after all, -[995.08 --> 996.84] Jacob knew the power of dreams. -[997.10 --> 998.40] Remember Jacob's ladder. -[999.52 --> 1000.66] You get the impression -[1000.66 --> 1002.28] that Jacob was finally -[1002.28 --> 1003.54] beginning to see -[1003.54 --> 1004.72] what this was doing -[1004.72 --> 1006.08] to Joseph's brothers. -[1007.54 --> 1009.02] Our translation says -[1009.02 --> 1010.40] they were jealous. -[1011.26 --> 1012.70] Technically, of course, -[1012.96 --> 1014.60] they were envious. -[1014.60 --> 1016.86] You are jealous -[1016.86 --> 1018.12] of what is yours. -[1019.38 --> 1020.28] You envy -[1020.28 --> 1022.06] what somebody else has. -[1023.56 --> 1024.84] And envy easily -[1024.84 --> 1026.56] becomes both dangerous -[1026.56 --> 1027.92] and deadly. -[1029.30 --> 1030.74] Envy can churn away -[1030.74 --> 1031.66] inside of you -[1031.66 --> 1032.98] like psychic heartburn -[1032.98 --> 1033.72] and making you -[1033.72 --> 1035.26] want to destroy the one -[1035.26 --> 1037.58] who has what you don't. -[1037.58 --> 1041.54] And so Jacob's home -[1041.54 --> 1042.80] became a time bomb -[1042.80 --> 1044.66] waiting to explode. -[1045.62 --> 1047.08] But life went on -[1047.08 --> 1048.38] until one day -[1048.38 --> 1049.64] Joseph's brothers -[1049.64 --> 1050.28] were grazing -[1050.28 --> 1051.28] dad's flocks -[1051.28 --> 1052.22] near Shechem -[1052.22 --> 1054.34] and Jacob decides -[1054.34 --> 1055.26] to send Joseph -[1055.26 --> 1056.60] to check on them, -[1056.88 --> 1057.54] though it sounds -[1057.54 --> 1059.28] more like a spying mission. -[1061.30 --> 1062.70] And that brings us -[1062.70 --> 1064.26] to a part of the story -[1064.26 --> 1065.28] that seems completely -[1065.80 --> 1066.54] unnecessary -[1066.54 --> 1067.58] to the plot -[1067.58 --> 1068.76] now unfolding, -[1069.14 --> 1070.10] making it easy -[1070.10 --> 1071.38] to skim over -[1071.38 --> 1074.02] about how Joseph -[1074.02 --> 1075.58] does not find -[1075.58 --> 1076.06] the brothers -[1076.06 --> 1076.62] at Shechem -[1076.62 --> 1077.48] as expected, -[1077.88 --> 1078.86] but happens -[1078.86 --> 1079.62] to run into -[1079.62 --> 1080.40] a stranger -[1080.40 --> 1081.86] who in fact -[1081.86 --> 1083.22] finds him, -[1084.32 --> 1084.96] a stranger -[1084.96 --> 1086.94] who somehow -[1086.94 --> 1088.36] overheard the brothers -[1088.36 --> 1089.28] and knows -[1089.28 --> 1090.30] they had moved -[1090.30 --> 1091.38] on to Dothan -[1091.38 --> 1092.12] an additional -[1092.12 --> 1093.76] 30 kilometers away. -[1095.30 --> 1095.62] Well, -[1095.62 --> 1096.72] Shechem, -[1097.08 --> 1097.48] Dothan, -[1097.72 --> 1099.18] who really cares, -[1099.30 --> 1099.60] right? -[1101.22 --> 1102.34] But in the Bible -[1102.34 --> 1103.68] it is always important -[1103.68 --> 1105.02] to sweat the small stuff, -[1105.72 --> 1107.60] to pay attention -[1107.60 --> 1108.40] to seemingly -[1108.40 --> 1109.94] unnecessary details, -[1110.22 --> 1112.02] because sometimes -[1112.02 --> 1112.66] that's where -[1112.66 --> 1113.66] the deepest meaning -[1113.66 --> 1114.44] of the story -[1114.44 --> 1115.62] gets exposed. -[1115.98 --> 1116.24] I mean, -[1116.28 --> 1117.12] it's remarkable -[1117.12 --> 1118.58] if you think about it. -[1118.62 --> 1119.28] A stranger -[1119.28 --> 1120.40] just happens -[1120.40 --> 1122.02] to find Joseph -[1122.02 --> 1123.62] just happen -[1123.62 --> 1125.24] to overhear a conversation. -[1128.24 --> 1129.28] Without what -[1129.28 --> 1130.10] we might call -[1130.10 --> 1131.90] this chance encounter, -[1133.52 --> 1134.54] Joseph would not -[1134.54 --> 1135.48] have found his brothers, -[1136.62 --> 1137.88] would not have been there -[1137.88 --> 1139.20] at the precise time -[1139.20 --> 1140.26] a trading caravan -[1140.26 --> 1141.02] of Midianites -[1141.02 --> 1141.76] passed by, -[1142.30 --> 1144.04] would not have ended up -[1144.04 --> 1145.12] on his long tour -[1145.12 --> 1146.38] of duty in Egypt, -[1146.88 --> 1147.72] thereby saving -[1147.72 --> 1149.24] not only his own people, -[1149.58 --> 1150.96] but also the Egyptians -[1150.96 --> 1153.00] and many others. -[1153.18 --> 1154.66] Without that chance -[1154.66 --> 1155.42] encounter, -[1156.48 --> 1157.44] Joseph would likely -[1157.44 --> 1158.20] have gone back -[1158.20 --> 1158.92] to his father -[1158.92 --> 1160.32] with another bad report, -[1160.66 --> 1161.66] my brothers were not -[1161.66 --> 1162.24] where they said -[1162.24 --> 1163.10] they would be. -[1163.10 --> 1166.40] And that would have been -[1166.40 --> 1167.20] that. -[1169.66 --> 1170.54] Makes you wonder -[1170.54 --> 1172.42] who the stranger -[1172.42 --> 1174.24] really was. -[1176.94 --> 1177.84] In any case, -[1177.96 --> 1178.62] Joseph finally -[1178.62 --> 1179.44] finds his brothers -[1179.44 --> 1180.58] and already from a distance -[1180.58 --> 1181.46] they recognize him, -[1181.54 --> 1182.68] probably from the way -[1182.68 --> 1183.82] his coat was building -[1183.82 --> 1185.04] in the wind behind him, -[1186.10 --> 1186.86] the dreamer, -[1187.00 --> 1187.52] they call him. -[1187.60 --> 1189.08] Here comes that dreamer. -[1190.50 --> 1191.16] And their hate -[1191.16 --> 1191.76] and their envy -[1191.76 --> 1192.70] is so raw, -[1192.70 --> 1193.42] it takes only -[1193.42 --> 1194.14] the few minutes -[1194.14 --> 1195.20] for him to reach them -[1195.20 --> 1196.66] that the plot is hatched. -[1196.72 --> 1197.46] Let's kill him, -[1197.62 --> 1198.06] they say. -[1199.20 --> 1200.12] No, no, no, -[1200.14 --> 1201.18] says oldest brother Reuben. -[1201.72 --> 1202.68] Let's just dump him -[1202.68 --> 1203.46] in a pit for now, -[1203.56 --> 1204.80] thinking to rescue him later. -[1206.34 --> 1207.12] And before Joseph -[1207.12 --> 1208.20] knows that he's in a pit, -[1208.50 --> 1209.56] minus his royal robe, -[1209.78 --> 1210.50] while his brothers, -[1210.72 --> 1211.46] minus Reuben, -[1211.66 --> 1212.24] who is off -[1212.24 --> 1213.02] checking the flocks, -[1213.34 --> 1213.96] enjoy a meal -[1213.96 --> 1214.60] just like a bunch -[1214.60 --> 1215.32] of mobsters -[1215.32 --> 1216.62] returning to their spaghetti -[1216.62 --> 1218.06] after they've erased somebody. -[1218.96 --> 1220.08] Taking care of business, -[1220.56 --> 1221.14] that's all. -[1222.70 --> 1224.60] That's when the Midianites -[1224.60 --> 1225.26] come along -[1225.26 --> 1226.42] and Judah, -[1226.76 --> 1227.60] one of the brothers -[1227.60 --> 1228.32] to watch -[1228.32 --> 1229.78] in this story, -[1230.28 --> 1231.84] gets the idea -[1231.84 --> 1232.78] to sell Joseph. -[1233.80 --> 1234.82] And before you know it, -[1235.06 --> 1235.28] Joseph -[1235.28 --> 1236.58] is on his way -[1236.58 --> 1237.46] to Egypt. -[1238.50 --> 1239.62] In his novel -[1239.62 --> 1240.24] on Jacob, -[1241.00 --> 1241.84] Son of Laughter, -[1242.68 --> 1243.38] Frederick Buechner -[1243.38 --> 1244.16] imagines -[1244.16 --> 1245.58] how the transaction -[1245.58 --> 1246.38] took place. -[1246.48 --> 1246.92] The traders -[1246.92 --> 1247.74] inspecting -[1247.74 --> 1248.58] Joseph -[1248.58 --> 1249.36] like a horse -[1249.36 --> 1250.12] at an auction, -[1250.50 --> 1251.44] pinching his muscles, -[1251.80 --> 1252.84] prying his mouth open -[1252.84 --> 1254.02] to look at his teeth, -[1254.26 --> 1254.78] then offering -[1254.78 --> 1255.74] five silver bits -[1255.74 --> 1256.18] for him. -[1256.44 --> 1257.06] When their brothers -[1257.06 --> 1257.96] insist on thirty, -[1258.04 --> 1258.98] they up it to ten, -[1259.42 --> 1260.24] then to fifteen -[1260.24 --> 1260.96] if a good knife -[1260.96 --> 1261.74] comes with a deal, -[1261.82 --> 1262.60] then to seventeen, -[1262.88 --> 1263.64] one for each year -[1263.64 --> 1264.16] of his age, -[1264.20 --> 1264.62] and finally -[1264.62 --> 1265.28] they all agree -[1265.28 --> 1266.12] on twenty bits -[1266.12 --> 1266.62] of silver, -[1266.94 --> 1267.40] the price -[1267.40 --> 1268.22] of a brother. -[1270.70 --> 1271.74] We are not told -[1271.74 --> 1272.14] here -[1272.14 --> 1273.60] if Joseph cried -[1273.60 --> 1274.72] or pleaded -[1274.72 --> 1275.20] with him. -[1277.56 --> 1278.62] He did all -[1278.62 --> 1279.02] of that -[1279.02 --> 1279.86] and more -[1279.86 --> 1281.44] as we learn -[1281.44 --> 1281.76] later. -[1282.62 --> 1283.66] But the dreams -[1283.66 --> 1284.82] have long ago -[1284.82 --> 1285.32] hardened -[1285.32 --> 1286.76] his brother's hearts. -[1287.44 --> 1287.94] There would be -[1287.94 --> 1288.64] no sympathy, -[1289.24 --> 1290.34] no compassion. -[1291.30 --> 1291.58] Joseph, -[1292.04 --> 1292.84] like another -[1292.84 --> 1293.78] beloved son, -[1294.26 --> 1294.86] much later -[1294.86 --> 1296.24] in his story -[1296.24 --> 1297.84] is betrayed -[1297.84 --> 1298.76] for a few pieces -[1298.76 --> 1299.32] of silver. -[1300.10 --> 1300.98] And as the caravan -[1300.98 --> 1301.50] moves off, -[1301.56 --> 1302.24] one imagines -[1302.24 --> 1302.74] the brothers -[1302.74 --> 1303.50] taunting him -[1303.50 --> 1304.62] with exaggerated -[1304.62 --> 1305.06] bows. -[1305.20 --> 1305.46] So, -[1305.62 --> 1306.32] little bro, -[1306.72 --> 1307.30] dreamer, -[1307.58 --> 1308.34] what happens -[1308.34 --> 1309.08] to your dreams -[1309.08 --> 1309.58] now? -[1313.08 --> 1313.90] This part -[1313.90 --> 1314.36] of the story -[1314.36 --> 1314.84] ends -[1314.84 --> 1315.92] when the scheming -[1315.92 --> 1316.52] brothers bring -[1316.52 --> 1317.02] their father -[1317.02 --> 1318.28] Joseph's dream coat, -[1318.76 --> 1319.70] now mostly blood -[1319.70 --> 1320.50] red in color, -[1321.08 --> 1321.94] the blood of a goat, -[1322.06 --> 1322.80] and convince him -[1322.80 --> 1324.36] that his son, -[1324.66 --> 1325.06] note, -[1325.50 --> 1326.20] they don't say -[1326.20 --> 1326.94] our brother, -[1327.26 --> 1328.62] but his son -[1328.62 --> 1329.88] is missing -[1329.88 --> 1330.70] in action. -[1331.60 --> 1332.12] Certainly -[1332.12 --> 1332.68] almost -[1332.68 --> 1334.30] killed by a wild -[1334.30 --> 1334.72] animal, -[1335.62 --> 1336.14] and Jacob, -[1336.64 --> 1337.64] and only Jacob, -[1337.98 --> 1338.48] is left -[1338.48 --> 1339.20] weeping -[1339.20 --> 1340.30] in a grief -[1340.30 --> 1341.46] which, -[1341.68 --> 1342.44] with no dead -[1342.44 --> 1343.24] body to bring -[1343.24 --> 1344.22] any sort of closure, -[1344.76 --> 1345.56] goes on -[1345.56 --> 1346.50] and on -[1346.50 --> 1347.66] and on. -[1350.16 --> 1351.26] What a story. -[1352.54 --> 1353.78] The classic -[1353.78 --> 1355.04] blended family -[1355.04 --> 1356.32] in which -[1356.32 --> 1356.82] everything -[1356.82 --> 1357.74] goes wrong, -[1358.44 --> 1359.10] favoritism, -[1359.70 --> 1360.12] spying, -[1360.12 --> 1361.20] tattletaling, -[1361.64 --> 1362.54] sibling rivalry, -[1363.18 --> 1363.52] hatred, -[1363.82 --> 1364.12] envy, -[1364.50 --> 1364.90] strife, -[1365.34 --> 1366.28] murder schemes, -[1366.50 --> 1366.82] greed, -[1367.06 --> 1367.50] violence, -[1367.64 --> 1368.02] deceit, -[1368.12 --> 1368.62] and grief -[1368.62 --> 1370.40] that refuses comfort. -[1371.54 --> 1372.76] Unlike the musical -[1372.76 --> 1374.22] Joseph and the Amazing -[1374.22 --> 1375.52] Technicolor Dreamcoat, -[1375.62 --> 1376.32] as much fun -[1376.32 --> 1377.40] as it was -[1377.40 --> 1378.02] and is, -[1379.10 --> 1379.96] there's not much -[1379.96 --> 1380.44] in the way -[1380.44 --> 1381.10] of laughter -[1381.10 --> 1382.32] and dancing -[1382.32 --> 1383.36] and singing -[1383.36 --> 1384.50] here. -[1384.50 --> 1387.56] you wonder, -[1388.18 --> 1390.40] where is God -[1390.40 --> 1391.34] in all this? -[1393.38 --> 1394.14] The question -[1394.14 --> 1395.28] we still ask -[1395.28 --> 1395.68] today, -[1395.76 --> 1396.14] isn't it? -[1397.12 --> 1398.00] When we look -[1398.00 --> 1399.00] around at the evil -[1399.00 --> 1399.78] and heartbreak -[1399.78 --> 1400.54] in our world, -[1400.62 --> 1401.64] when we look -[1401.64 --> 1402.30] at the way -[1402.30 --> 1403.26] these days -[1403.26 --> 1403.72] our world -[1403.72 --> 1404.30] has been turned -[1404.30 --> 1405.42] upside down -[1405.42 --> 1406.60] by a simple -[1406.60 --> 1407.34] virus, -[1407.34 --> 1409.90] when we look -[1409.90 --> 1410.70] at the brokenness -[1410.70 --> 1411.36] we ourselves -[1411.36 --> 1412.12] experience -[1412.12 --> 1413.38] in our lives -[1413.38 --> 1414.22] or in our families, -[1414.58 --> 1416.02] where is God -[1416.02 --> 1417.60] in all this? -[1421.00 --> 1422.00] Sometimes we talk -[1422.00 --> 1422.74] easily about -[1422.74 --> 1423.58] God's providence, -[1423.68 --> 1424.38] mostly when good -[1424.38 --> 1424.94] things happen, -[1425.02 --> 1425.68] like a thrifty -[1425.68 --> 1426.46] Dutchman standing -[1426.46 --> 1426.92] up at a -[1426.92 --> 1427.70] congregational meeting -[1427.70 --> 1428.36] to call for the -[1428.36 --> 1428.76] question, -[1429.46 --> 1429.82] yes. -[1431.92 --> 1432.94] It's great to talk -[1432.94 --> 1433.60] about providence -[1433.60 --> 1434.42] when you get the job -[1434.42 --> 1435.16] you prayed for -[1435.16 --> 1436.02] or you meet -[1436.02 --> 1437.74] Mr. or Miss Wright -[1437.74 --> 1438.46] at just a proper -[1438.46 --> 1439.32] time in your life -[1439.32 --> 1440.44] or you narrowly -[1440.44 --> 1440.90] escaped, -[1441.00 --> 1441.88] as you recounted -[1441.88 --> 1442.76] in your prayer, -[1443.06 --> 1444.08] a terrible accident -[1444.08 --> 1445.78] or you experience -[1445.78 --> 1446.78] any of the countless -[1446.78 --> 1448.22] big or small ways -[1448.22 --> 1450.60] by which the strong -[1450.60 --> 1452.90] but sure hands -[1452.90 --> 1454.54] of the Heavenly Father -[1454.54 --> 1457.16] uphold and care -[1457.16 --> 1457.94] for our world -[1457.94 --> 1460.18] and your life. -[1460.18 --> 1464.88] But when bad -[1464.88 --> 1465.68] things come along, -[1466.46 --> 1467.60] we begin to wonder, -[1468.38 --> 1470.10] where was God? -[1472.00 --> 1473.40] Because God's providence -[1473.40 --> 1474.66] is not all sweetness -[1474.66 --> 1475.82] and happiness. -[1476.10 --> 1476.76] One of the things -[1476.76 --> 1477.60] Genesis 7 -[1477.60 --> 1478.66] and the Joseph cycle -[1478.66 --> 1479.16] of stories -[1479.16 --> 1480.26] have to teach us -[1480.26 --> 1481.30] is that there is more -[1481.30 --> 1482.74] to God's providence -[1482.74 --> 1483.72] than that. -[1485.02 --> 1485.62] Sometimes -[1485.62 --> 1486.94] the world -[1486.94 --> 1487.64] resists -[1487.64 --> 1488.44] God's work. -[1488.44 --> 1490.68] sometimes -[1490.68 --> 1491.80] God's own children -[1491.80 --> 1492.90] including you and I -[1492.90 --> 1494.86] resist His work -[1494.86 --> 1496.12] and His word. -[1497.52 --> 1498.64] Because of the sin -[1498.64 --> 1499.34] and brokenness -[1499.34 --> 1500.18] of our lives -[1500.18 --> 1500.84] and the world, -[1501.00 --> 1501.72] sometimes it is -[1501.72 --> 1503.06] God's work itself -[1503.06 --> 1504.04] that can bring us -[1504.04 --> 1504.86] unhappiness. -[1507.12 --> 1508.20] At other times, -[1508.30 --> 1509.30] God does this work -[1509.30 --> 1509.84] in the midst -[1509.84 --> 1510.86] of some of the worst -[1510.86 --> 1511.96] things life can dish -[1511.96 --> 1512.60] out to you. -[1513.90 --> 1515.06] God did not inspire -[1515.06 --> 1515.94] the evil plot -[1515.94 --> 1517.28] of Joseph's brothers, -[1517.28 --> 1517.40] brothers, -[1518.20 --> 1519.04] but that doesn't mean -[1519.04 --> 1519.92] He cannot bring good -[1519.92 --> 1520.44] out of it, -[1520.88 --> 1522.02] that He cannot fulfill -[1522.02 --> 1522.66] His purposes -[1522.66 --> 1523.74] in spite of it. -[1525.34 --> 1526.20] A certain -[1526.20 --> 1527.66] Jewish rabbi -[1527.66 --> 1528.56] trying to explain -[1528.56 --> 1529.04] all this -[1529.04 --> 1530.22] writes about -[1530.22 --> 1530.80] the following -[1530.80 --> 1531.52] conversation -[1531.52 --> 1532.56] between a rabbi -[1532.56 --> 1533.64] and his student. -[1534.84 --> 1535.40] Rabbi, -[1536.52 --> 1537.72] do you know -[1537.72 --> 1538.26] why Satan -[1538.26 --> 1539.02] is so angry -[1539.02 --> 1539.96] all the time? -[1539.96 --> 1541.68] because whenever -[1541.68 --> 1542.34] he works -[1542.34 --> 1543.24] a particularly -[1543.24 --> 1544.08] clever bit -[1544.08 --> 1544.72] of mischief, -[1545.54 --> 1546.56] God uses it -[1546.56 --> 1547.16] to serve -[1547.16 --> 1547.86] His own -[1547.86 --> 1549.34] righteous purposes. -[1550.52 --> 1551.08] Student, -[1551.92 --> 1552.18] so, -[1552.96 --> 1553.82] God uses -[1553.82 --> 1554.66] wicked people -[1554.66 --> 1555.36] as His tools? -[1557.16 --> 1557.52] Rabbi, -[1558.30 --> 1559.30] God gives us -[1559.30 --> 1560.06] freedom to do -[1560.06 --> 1560.72] a great deal -[1560.72 --> 1561.20] of evil -[1561.20 --> 1562.44] if we choose. -[1563.20 --> 1563.58] Then, -[1564.10 --> 1564.84] He uses -[1564.84 --> 1565.58] His own freedom -[1565.58 --> 1566.46] to create goodness -[1566.46 --> 1567.16] out of that evil -[1567.16 --> 1567.94] for that is what -[1567.94 --> 1568.78] He chooses. -[1568.78 --> 1570.56] student. -[1571.38 --> 1571.58] So, -[1571.90 --> 1572.90] in the long run, -[1573.72 --> 1575.42] God always wins. -[1576.34 --> 1576.58] Rabbi, -[1577.54 --> 1578.12] yes. -[1579.00 --> 1580.28] But in the short run, -[1581.14 --> 1582.12] it can be -[1582.12 --> 1584.28] very uncomfortable. -[1587.10 --> 1588.68] And if you doubt that, -[1589.20 --> 1590.24] don't just ask -[1590.24 --> 1591.28] Jacob's son, -[1591.98 --> 1592.90] ask God's -[1592.90 --> 1593.78] own -[1593.78 --> 1595.14] beloved son. -[1596.26 --> 1597.06] Ask Jesus. -[1598.78 --> 1599.86] In the short run, -[1600.26 --> 1600.96] we can make -[1600.96 --> 1601.64] such a mess -[1601.64 --> 1602.40] of our lives. -[1603.44 --> 1604.38] In the short run, -[1604.90 --> 1605.56] human history -[1605.56 --> 1606.64] often looks -[1606.64 --> 1607.14] more like -[1607.14 --> 1608.02] a train wreck -[1608.02 --> 1609.44] than the unfolding -[1609.44 --> 1610.02] purposes -[1610.02 --> 1611.04] of God. -[1612.24 --> 1613.22] God does not -[1613.22 --> 1613.94] guarantee us -[1613.94 --> 1614.66] the ability -[1614.66 --> 1615.64] to see the -[1615.64 --> 1616.08] meaningful, -[1616.58 --> 1617.62] larger patterns -[1617.62 --> 1618.34] of it all -[1618.34 --> 1619.76] on this side -[1619.76 --> 1620.58] of the grave. -[1621.22 --> 1622.08] Any number -[1622.08 --> 1622.58] of people -[1622.58 --> 1623.20] have lived -[1623.20 --> 1624.28] and have died -[1624.28 --> 1625.06] without being -[1625.06 --> 1625.84] able to look -[1625.84 --> 1627.26] back as Joseph -[1627.26 --> 1628.16] of one day will -[1628.16 --> 1629.02] and declare -[1629.02 --> 1630.26] it was all good -[1630.26 --> 1631.42] because it was -[1631.42 --> 1632.64] all used -[1632.64 --> 1633.42] by God. -[1635.34 --> 1636.02] Nor do -[1636.02 --> 1637.12] Genesis 37 -[1637.12 --> 1637.78] and the chapters -[1637.78 --> 1638.32] that follow -[1638.32 --> 1638.90] tell us that -[1638.90 --> 1639.64] we'll always know -[1639.64 --> 1640.58] the wherefores -[1640.58 --> 1641.42] and the whys -[1641.42 --> 1642.12] of what's happening -[1642.12 --> 1642.68] to us. -[1643.06 --> 1643.44] Instead, -[1643.72 --> 1644.40] these chapters -[1644.40 --> 1644.98] declare -[1644.98 --> 1646.90] the sure hope -[1646.90 --> 1648.14] that in the longest -[1648.14 --> 1649.12] possible run, -[1649.30 --> 1650.78] it will make sense. -[1651.28 --> 1652.44] God will not be -[1652.44 --> 1653.14] outdone, -[1653.64 --> 1654.30] outsmarted, -[1654.30 --> 1655.28] outwitted, -[1655.64 --> 1656.44] not even by -[1656.44 --> 1657.06] the world's -[1657.06 --> 1658.16] greatest evil, -[1659.06 --> 1659.74] the killing -[1659.74 --> 1661.28] of his own son. -[1662.92 --> 1663.84] The witness -[1663.84 --> 1665.32] of Genesis 37 -[1665.32 --> 1666.10] to 50 -[1666.10 --> 1667.64] and all -[1667.64 --> 1668.06] scripture -[1668.06 --> 1669.24] is that somehow -[1669.24 --> 1670.56] God can -[1670.56 --> 1671.22] and will -[1671.22 --> 1672.28] make all -[1672.28 --> 1673.22] things new, -[1674.02 --> 1675.24] right every -[1675.24 --> 1675.70] wrong, -[1676.12 --> 1676.92] and return -[1676.92 --> 1678.02] all things -[1678.02 --> 1678.88] to how they -[1678.88 --> 1679.32] should have -[1679.32 --> 1680.98] been all along. -[1680.98 --> 1684.46] many scholars -[1684.46 --> 1685.16] believe that -[1685.16 --> 1686.14] the Joseph story -[1686.14 --> 1686.92] was first set -[1686.92 --> 1687.80] into written form -[1687.80 --> 1688.80] during the time -[1688.80 --> 1689.92] of Israel's exile -[1689.92 --> 1690.70] in Babylon. -[1691.74 --> 1692.52] If so, -[1692.60 --> 1693.38] then the original -[1693.38 --> 1694.74] audience of Joseph's -[1694.74 --> 1695.50] story were people -[1695.50 --> 1696.18] well acquainted -[1696.18 --> 1696.88] with grief -[1696.88 --> 1697.84] and with the -[1697.84 --> 1698.64] collapse of what -[1698.64 --> 1699.44] were the fondest -[1699.44 --> 1700.50] hopes and dreams -[1700.50 --> 1701.98] of their faith. -[1703.74 --> 1704.70] Even if that -[1704.70 --> 1705.34] isn't so, -[1705.68 --> 1706.72] certainly this story -[1706.72 --> 1707.42] has been read -[1707.42 --> 1708.28] by any number -[1708.28 --> 1709.04] of Israelites, -[1709.04 --> 1711.16] Jews and Christians -[1711.16 --> 1712.04] who found -[1712.04 --> 1713.00] themselves in -[1713.00 --> 1714.06] some measure -[1714.06 --> 1714.86] of exile, -[1715.20 --> 1715.80] at some -[1715.80 --> 1717.00] removed from -[1717.00 --> 1717.36] God, -[1717.52 --> 1718.10] at some -[1718.10 --> 1719.02] crisis point -[1719.02 --> 1719.52] of faith. -[1721.10 --> 1722.14] In other words, -[1722.26 --> 1723.10] it really is -[1723.10 --> 1723.68] a story -[1723.68 --> 1725.22] for all of us. -[1727.24 --> 1728.54] And that story -[1728.54 --> 1729.60] does not end -[1729.60 --> 1730.46] with the -[1730.46 --> 1731.52] inconsolable -[1731.52 --> 1732.54] weeping of -[1732.54 --> 1733.30] Jacob over -[1733.30 --> 1734.18] his apparently -[1734.18 --> 1735.44] dead son. -[1736.34 --> 1737.24] This story -[1737.24 --> 1737.72] we know -[1737.72 --> 1738.46] is far -[1738.46 --> 1739.08] from over. -[1740.28 --> 1741.06] For the author -[1741.06 --> 1742.46] of Genesis 37 -[1742.46 --> 1743.68] has sown -[1743.68 --> 1744.26] at least -[1744.26 --> 1745.06] three -[1745.06 --> 1746.02] seeds -[1746.02 --> 1747.00] of hope. -[1748.24 --> 1749.16] The first -[1749.16 --> 1750.20] is in verse 11 -[1750.20 --> 1751.36] when Jacob, -[1751.62 --> 1752.12] despite having -[1752.12 --> 1752.94] just rebuked -[1752.94 --> 1753.68] Joseph for his -[1753.68 --> 1754.18] arrogance, -[1755.32 --> 1756.60] kept the matter -[1756.60 --> 1757.70] in mind. -[1759.44 --> 1760.16] Jacob, -[1760.38 --> 1760.70] that is, -[1760.74 --> 1761.36] who has had -[1761.36 --> 1762.12] his own share -[1762.12 --> 1762.78] of dreams, -[1763.24 --> 1764.46] has the nagging -[1764.46 --> 1765.12] sense and -[1765.12 --> 1765.94] gives us -[1765.94 --> 1766.56] the nagging -[1766.56 --> 1767.38] sense that -[1767.38 --> 1768.34] if he didn't -[1768.34 --> 1768.92] already know -[1768.92 --> 1769.32] better, -[1769.46 --> 1769.82] there is -[1769.82 --> 1771.08] something more -[1771.08 --> 1771.88] to Joseph's -[1771.88 --> 1773.14] dreams than -[1773.14 --> 1773.54] a vivid -[1773.54 --> 1774.28] imagination -[1774.28 --> 1775.60] or wishful -[1775.60 --> 1775.96] thinking. -[1778.26 --> 1779.18] The second -[1779.18 --> 1779.82] seed of hope -[1779.82 --> 1780.18] is the -[1780.18 --> 1780.94] appearance of -[1780.94 --> 1781.68] that stranger. -[1782.56 --> 1783.20] In this -[1783.20 --> 1783.60] seemingly -[1783.60 --> 1784.88] irrelevant detail, -[1785.76 --> 1786.30] it is as -[1786.30 --> 1786.80] though the -[1786.80 --> 1787.60] storyteller -[1787.60 --> 1788.34] is whispering, -[1788.34 --> 1790.42] look, -[1791.06 --> 1791.48] get it? -[1791.58 --> 1792.00] There is a -[1792.00 --> 1792.94] bigger picture -[1792.94 --> 1793.30] here. -[1793.76 --> 1794.24] There is a -[1794.24 --> 1794.90] bigger purpose -[1794.90 --> 1795.28] here. -[1796.40 --> 1796.92] Imagine, -[1797.72 --> 1798.42] again, -[1798.52 --> 1798.88] if this -[1798.88 --> 1799.46] stranger had -[1799.46 --> 1800.00] not appeared. -[1801.42 --> 1801.98] Joseph would -[1801.98 --> 1802.46] have returned -[1802.46 --> 1803.18] home to his -[1803.18 --> 1803.54] father, -[1804.54 --> 1805.18] his family, -[1805.84 --> 1806.60] and Israel, -[1806.90 --> 1807.36] and the line -[1807.36 --> 1807.74] from which -[1807.74 --> 1808.38] God's Savior -[1808.38 --> 1809.26] Jesus would -[1809.26 --> 1809.88] one day come -[1809.88 --> 1810.40] would never -[1810.40 --> 1810.78] have been -[1810.78 --> 1811.28] rescued from -[1811.28 --> 1811.66] the great -[1811.66 --> 1812.02] famine, -[1812.42 --> 1812.96] and God's -[1812.96 --> 1813.40] people would -[1813.40 --> 1813.80] not have -[1813.80 --> 1814.58] ended up as -[1814.58 --> 1815.52] slaves in -[1815.52 --> 1815.84] Egypt, -[1815.94 --> 1816.52] only to be -[1816.52 --> 1817.08] delivered by -[1817.08 --> 1817.70] Moses hundreds -[1817.70 --> 1818.16] of years -[1818.16 --> 1818.50] later, -[1818.80 --> 1819.62] because the -[1819.62 --> 1820.18] stranger -[1820.18 --> 1822.04] appears. -[1823.14 --> 1823.52] God's -[1823.52 --> 1824.06] promise to -[1824.06 --> 1824.94] Abraham in -[1824.94 --> 1825.90] Genesis 15 -[1825.90 --> 1826.80] will yet be -[1826.80 --> 1827.22] fulfilled, -[1827.52 --> 1827.88] namely, -[1828.84 --> 1829.36] know for -[1829.36 --> 1830.06] certain that -[1830.06 --> 1830.92] your descendants -[1830.92 --> 1831.62] will be -[1831.62 --> 1832.40] strangers in -[1832.40 --> 1832.82] a country -[1832.82 --> 1833.30] not their -[1833.30 --> 1833.62] own, -[1833.84 --> 1834.38] and they -[1834.38 --> 1834.78] will be -[1834.78 --> 1835.92] enslaved and -[1835.92 --> 1836.52] mistreated -[1836.52 --> 1838.36] 400 years, -[1838.96 --> 1839.78] but I will -[1839.78 --> 1840.44] punish the -[1840.44 --> 1841.40] nation they -[1841.40 --> 1842.12] serve as -[1842.12 --> 1842.50] slaves, -[1842.58 --> 1843.20] and afterward -[1843.20 --> 1844.06] they will -[1844.06 --> 1844.58] come out -[1844.58 --> 1845.44] with great -[1845.44 --> 1846.04] possessions. -[1847.08 --> 1848.96] It was -[1848.96 --> 1849.52] only later -[1849.52 --> 1850.18] that Joseph -[1850.18 --> 1851.76] would recognize -[1851.76 --> 1852.60] this stranger -[1852.60 --> 1853.66] as God -[1853.66 --> 1854.44] at work, -[1855.40 --> 1856.34] God directing -[1856.34 --> 1857.06] his path -[1857.06 --> 1858.44] towards slavery -[1858.44 --> 1859.96] so that one -[1859.96 --> 1860.56] day Joseph -[1860.56 --> 1861.10] could tell -[1861.10 --> 1861.72] his brothers -[1861.72 --> 1862.98] you meant -[1862.98 --> 1863.60] it for evil -[1863.60 --> 1864.38] but God -[1864.38 --> 1865.12] meant it -[1865.12 --> 1866.02] for good. -[1867.18 --> 1868.16] It serves -[1868.16 --> 1868.72] to remind -[1868.72 --> 1870.88] us that -[1870.88 --> 1871.62] just because -[1871.62 --> 1872.34] God is -[1872.34 --> 1873.34] hidden from -[1873.34 --> 1873.88] our view -[1873.88 --> 1875.02] does not -[1875.02 --> 1876.02] mean he -[1876.02 --> 1876.36] is not -[1876.36 --> 1876.74] there, -[1877.86 --> 1879.26] keeping -[1879.26 --> 1880.20] his promises. -[1881.16 --> 1881.92] Even when -[1881.92 --> 1882.56] God is -[1882.56 --> 1883.08] hidden, -[1883.46 --> 1883.98] even when -[1883.98 --> 1884.48] life goes -[1884.48 --> 1885.24] all wrong, -[1885.54 --> 1886.04] even when -[1886.04 --> 1886.66] God cannot -[1886.66 --> 1887.40] be seen, -[1888.54 --> 1889.50] he is not -[1889.50 --> 1890.52] absent. -[1891.52 --> 1892.78] He is with -[1892.78 --> 1893.14] us, -[1893.58 --> 1894.60] still in -[1894.60 --> 1895.06] control. -[1896.34 --> 1897.22] Remember the -[1897.22 --> 1898.34] stranger and -[1898.34 --> 1899.80] be alert for -[1899.80 --> 1900.72] God's strangers -[1900.72 --> 1902.30] in your own -[1902.30 --> 1902.72] life. -[1904.48 --> 1905.44] Remember too -[1905.44 --> 1905.88] that when -[1905.88 --> 1906.64] God was -[1906.64 --> 1907.18] the most -[1907.18 --> 1908.28] absent at -[1908.28 --> 1908.70] the cross -[1908.70 --> 1909.26] of Christ, -[1909.64 --> 1909.94] he was -[1909.94 --> 1911.16] also the -[1911.16 --> 1911.94] most near -[1911.94 --> 1912.86] to save -[1912.86 --> 1913.24] us from -[1913.24 --> 1914.62] sin and -[1914.62 --> 1915.12] make us -[1915.12 --> 1915.66] heirs of -[1915.66 --> 1916.42] his promise -[1916.42 --> 1917.50] of a new -[1917.50 --> 1918.68] life and -[1918.68 --> 1919.06] a new -[1919.06 --> 1920.20] creation where -[1920.20 --> 1920.98] there is no -[1920.98 --> 1922.04] more sin or -[1922.04 --> 1923.14] sadness or -[1923.14 --> 1924.36] dysfunction or -[1924.36 --> 1925.60] disease or -[1925.60 --> 1927.10] death anymore. -[1927.10 --> 1927.28] him. -[1929.28 --> 1930.44] The third -[1930.44 --> 1931.30] seed of hope -[1931.30 --> 1932.36] is in the -[1932.36 --> 1932.88] chapter's -[1932.88 --> 1934.22] last verse. -[1936.06 --> 1936.68] Meanwhile, -[1937.34 --> 1938.06] the Midianites -[1938.06 --> 1938.72] sold Joseph -[1938.72 --> 1939.48] in Egypt to -[1939.48 --> 1940.02] Potiphar, -[1940.50 --> 1940.96] one of -[1940.96 --> 1941.42] Pharaoh's -[1941.42 --> 1941.94] officials, -[1942.22 --> 1942.76] the captain -[1942.76 --> 1943.60] of the -[1943.60 --> 1943.90] guard. -[1945.96 --> 1946.96] Joseph lands -[1946.96 --> 1947.64] in Egypt -[1947.64 --> 1950.58] alive and -[1950.58 --> 1951.28] is sold to -[1951.28 --> 1952.12] someone closely -[1952.12 --> 1953.62] associated with -[1953.62 --> 1954.18] no less -[1954.18 --> 1954.94] powerful a -[1954.94 --> 1955.64] figure than -[1955.64 --> 1956.10] the Pharaoh -[1956.10 --> 1956.66] himself. -[1958.00 --> 1958.76] Verse 36 -[1958.76 --> 1959.40] is sort of a -[1959.40 --> 1959.98] poke in the -[1959.98 --> 1960.42] ribs as if -[1960.42 --> 1960.76] to say, -[1961.12 --> 1961.32] hey, -[1961.44 --> 1961.98] don't give -[1961.98 --> 1962.16] up, -[1962.22 --> 1962.62] the dream -[1962.62 --> 1962.96] is still -[1962.96 --> 1963.42] alive, -[1963.82 --> 1964.38] God isn't -[1964.38 --> 1964.76] dead and -[1964.76 --> 1965.24] neither is -[1965.24 --> 1965.60] Joseph, -[1965.94 --> 1966.30] so keep -[1966.30 --> 1966.60] reading. -[1968.44 --> 1968.90] Yes, -[1968.96 --> 1969.36] the story -[1969.36 --> 1969.90] has taken a -[1969.90 --> 1970.62] difficult turn. -[1970.96 --> 1971.64] Everybody is -[1971.64 --> 1972.10] suffering from -[1972.10 --> 1972.44] the bad -[1972.44 --> 1972.98] choices they -[1972.98 --> 1973.50] have made, -[1973.88 --> 1974.24] Jacob, -[1974.66 --> 1975.02] Joseph, -[1975.36 --> 1975.90] the brothers. -[1977.18 --> 1977.80] But even -[1977.80 --> 1978.98] when people -[1978.98 --> 1979.68] take matters -[1979.68 --> 1980.16] into their -[1980.16 --> 1980.92] own hands -[1980.92 --> 1982.44] with often -[1982.44 --> 1983.16] disastrous -[1983.16 --> 1983.96] consequences, -[1984.12 --> 1984.56] even when -[1984.56 --> 1984.92] things are -[1984.92 --> 1986.04] falling apart, -[1987.10 --> 1987.82] there is a -[1987.82 --> 1988.46] voice on the -[1988.46 --> 1989.98] sideline saying, -[1990.76 --> 1991.04] yes, -[1991.72 --> 1992.22] but. -[1994.14 --> 1994.76] God's -[1994.76 --> 1995.46] hidden hand -[1995.46 --> 1996.06] is still at -[1996.06 --> 1996.36] work, -[1997.42 --> 1997.98] weaving the -[1997.98 --> 1998.80] tapestry of a -[1998.80 --> 1999.66] larger story, -[2000.46 --> 2001.46] a story so -[2001.46 --> 2002.36] big that its -[2002.36 --> 2003.70] loving purpose, -[2004.18 --> 2004.94] as we now know -[2004.94 --> 2005.52] in Christ, -[2005.88 --> 2006.68] will embrace -[2006.68 --> 2007.64] the entire -[2007.64 --> 2008.70] universe. -[2010.38 --> 2011.14] Often we -[2011.14 --> 2011.92] cannot see it -[2011.92 --> 2012.88] in the struggles -[2012.88 --> 2013.52] and sins, -[2013.94 --> 2014.56] in the tears -[2014.56 --> 2015.66] and tragedies -[2015.66 --> 2016.52] of our lives, -[2017.12 --> 2017.64] but this -[2017.64 --> 2018.86] story bears -[2018.86 --> 2019.70] witness to -[2019.70 --> 2020.28] the Christian -[2020.28 --> 2021.60] hope that -[2021.60 --> 2022.40] in the longest -[2022.40 --> 2023.44] possible run, -[2023.70 --> 2024.70] it will all -[2024.70 --> 2026.06] make sense. -[2026.68 --> 2027.42] God will -[2027.42 --> 2027.80] not, -[2027.92 --> 2028.78] to use the -[2028.78 --> 2029.58] language of my -[2029.58 --> 2030.50] favorite reality -[2030.50 --> 2030.78] show, -[2030.86 --> 2031.40] Survivor, -[2031.86 --> 2032.74] God will not -[2032.74 --> 2034.28] be outwitted, -[2035.06 --> 2035.92] outlasted, -[2036.20 --> 2037.22] or outplayed -[2037.22 --> 2038.72] by any human -[2038.72 --> 2040.28] evil or any -[2040.28 --> 2041.64] human empire. -[2041.64 --> 2042.64] God, -[2042.64 --> 2043.36] the living -[2043.36 --> 2044.14] God whom we -[2044.14 --> 2044.72] have come to -[2044.72 --> 2045.72] know in Jesus -[2045.72 --> 2046.46] Christ as -[2046.46 --> 2047.48] faithful and -[2047.48 --> 2048.40] gracious and -[2048.40 --> 2049.42] full of mercy -[2049.42 --> 2050.54] for all, -[2051.64 --> 2052.90] will continue to -[2052.90 --> 2053.70] write his story, -[2054.72 --> 2055.58] a story that has -[2055.58 --> 2056.42] been punctuated -[2056.42 --> 2057.18] with a cross -[2057.18 --> 2058.58] and an empty -[2058.58 --> 2060.10] tomb so that -[2060.10 --> 2061.76] we know the -[2061.76 --> 2062.48] dream will go -[2062.48 --> 2063.64] on, God's -[2063.64 --> 2064.90] promises are -[2064.90 --> 2065.72] not at an end, -[2065.98 --> 2066.74] our world, -[2067.74 --> 2069.04] our family, -[2069.04 --> 2070.76] I do have -[2070.76 --> 2071.80] a future. -[2073.18 --> 2074.82] Just keep -[2074.82 --> 2076.30] reading, keep -[2076.30 --> 2077.16] following Christ -[2077.16 --> 2078.08] because as the -[2078.08 --> 2078.78] last verse of -[2078.78 --> 2079.82] Genesis 37 -[2079.82 --> 2081.40] nicely reminds us -[2081.40 --> 2082.46] when it comes to -[2082.46 --> 2083.04] God and his -[2083.04 --> 2084.18] people in and -[2084.18 --> 2084.64] through even -[2084.64 --> 2085.34] life's darkest -[2085.34 --> 2086.36] moments, there -[2086.36 --> 2087.04] is one more -[2087.04 --> 2087.82] word that can -[2087.82 --> 2088.80] always be spoken -[2088.80 --> 2090.56] and that word -[2090.56 --> 2092.22] is meanwhile. -[2093.84 --> 2094.48] Meanwhile, -[2095.10 --> 2096.66] that is, -[2096.66 --> 2098.90] God will have -[2098.90 --> 2099.92] the last word -[2099.92 --> 2101.08] yet. -[2102.02 --> 2102.94] In the name of -[2102.94 --> 2103.56] the Father, the -[2103.56 --> 2104.90] Son, and the -[2104.90 --> 2105.44] Holy Spirit. -[2106.22 --> 2106.96] Let's pray. -[2107.48 --> 2108.18] Gracious God, -[2108.94 --> 2109.84] we thank you -[2109.84 --> 2110.62] for this story -[2110.62 --> 2113.28] and we thank you -[2113.28 --> 2114.26] for the assurance -[2114.26 --> 2115.86] which we need -[2115.86 --> 2117.08] perhaps more -[2117.08 --> 2117.86] now than ever -[2117.86 --> 2118.76] before in a -[2118.76 --> 2119.62] world that seems -[2119.62 --> 2120.20] to have turned -[2120.20 --> 2121.10] upside down in -[2121.10 --> 2121.98] so many ways -[2121.98 --> 2123.98] that you are -[2123.98 --> 2124.70] not absent, -[2125.28 --> 2126.12] you are still -[2126.12 --> 2127.04] here, you are -[2127.04 --> 2127.60] still busy -[2127.60 --> 2128.36] working out -[2128.36 --> 2129.08] your purposes -[2129.08 --> 2130.94] even through -[2130.94 --> 2131.32] us. -[2132.36 --> 2132.88] Help us, -[2133.02 --> 2133.32] Lord, be -[2133.32 --> 2134.22] attentive to -[2134.22 --> 2134.80] your presence -[2134.80 --> 2135.48] in our lives -[2135.48 --> 2135.94] and world -[2135.94 --> 2137.26] and use -[2137.26 --> 2138.42] even us -[2138.42 --> 2139.78] to bring about -[2139.78 --> 2140.74] your kingdom. -[2141.22 --> 2141.74] In Jesus' -[2141.92 --> 2142.48] name we pray. -[2143.08 --> 2143.36] Amen. -[2143.36 --> 2143.48] Amen. diff --git "a/Joseph #2\342\200\224Grace Conquers All (Sermon)_summary.txt" "b/Joseph #2\342\200\224Grace Conquers All (Sermon)_summary.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index a4901515e39a7c1ce11b8c0af8d8456ef74bb5d1..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Joseph #2\342\200\224Grace Conquers All (Sermon)_summary.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,58 +0,0 @@ -• Summary of Genesis 37 continued from previous sermon -• Introduction to Genesis 38 and Judah's family -• Judah marries a Canaanite woman named Shewet, resulting in three sons: Er, Onan, and Shelah -• The death of Er and Onan, who die for their sins -• Tamar becomes pregnant after Judah thinks she is a prostitute and sleeps with her -• Judah discovers he is the father and realizes his mistake, calling Tamar more righteous than himself -• Birth of twin sons Perez and Zerah -• The story of Judah is told to provide context for Joseph's experiences -• Judah suggests selling Joseph to slavery instead of killing him -• A period of 20 years passes between Judah's actions and his reunion with Joseph in Egypt -• Judah marries a Canaanite girl and has three sons, including Onan who refuses to consummate a marriage to Tamar -• Tamar lies about being a prostitute to get pregnant by Judah's sons, which is seen as wicked but ultimately leads to the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham -• The story highlights the importance of caring for widows and orphans in ancient Near Eastern culture -• Tamar disguises herself as a prostitute and tricks Judah into sleeping with her -• Judah does not realize it is his daughter-in-law and agrees to pay her for her services -• Tamar conceives twins with Judah, who are Perez and Zerah -• Judah tries to have Tamar executed for adultery but she reveals that the children's father is Judah himself -• Judah admits his sin and accepts responsibility for Tamar's pregnancy -• The story highlights Judah's change from a callous character to one who takes responsibility for his actions -• Judah's recognition and reaction to Tamar's personal identification -• The transformation of Judah through God's mercy and grace -• Judah and Tamar as imperfect biblical role models -• The universality of human sin and the possibility for change -• The impact of God's grace on Judah's life in the rest of the Joseph story -• God's prophecy to Jacob about Judah's future role in a royal line -• The larger context of Genesis, tying in with God's covenant with Abraham -• Judah's youngest son becomes the sole heir at the end of Genesis 38 -• The story of Tamar and her twin babies is a repetition of the Jacob and Esau birth story, highlighting God's sovereignty in choosing and working through those on the "bottom" -• The theme of God's grace and salvation being based on merit-free actions is illustrated throughout Genesis -• Examples of God working with flawed characters: Abraham, Jacob, Judah, and Tamar -• The story of Tamar is used to show how God can accomplish amazing things even through morally dubious actions -• Tamar's lineage leads to King David and eventually Jesus Christ -• The New Testament opens with Matthew's gospel, which includes Jesus' family tree -• Four non-Jewish women are included in this genealogy: Rahab, Tamar, Ruth, and Bathsheba -• Their inclusion highlights God's love for all peoples, not just Israel -• Jesus associated with and showed compassion to people who were considered outcasts or sinners, such as prostitutes, an adulteress, and a Samaritan woman -• He demonstrated God's grace by offering forgiveness and love to those who were seen as unclean or unworthy -• The speaker discusses the gospel as a message of good news for sinners -• God has every right to judge us but instead offers a fresh start through Jesus Christ -• The gospel is not just about being more tolerant or following good morals, but about a holy God's love and forgiveness -• We all make mistakes and sometimes do things that get in the way of God's will, but He accomplishes something good in our lives despite our flaws -• Grace is necessary for everyone, regardless of past mistakes or dysfunctionality in life and family -• The speaker emphasizes God's sufficient grace, never-ending love, and constant providential care. -• The Bible story of Judah and Tamar is used as an example of God's ability to change people for the better -• God's purpose can be fulfilled even in difficult or messed-up situations -• Salvation comes by God's grace, not through human merit -• God is at work directing things towards his gracious ends in every circumstance -• The story declares a message of hope for those who feel sinful or messed up -• The story also highlights the importance of humility and trusting God in all circumstances. -• Jesus does not avoid sinners -• He was willing to eat with those considered outcasts, such as prostitutes and embezzlers -• He died on a cross between two criminals -• His purpose is not to make nice people nicer, but to bring forgiveness and new life to all, regardless of their circumstances or past mistakes -• Prayer to understand the depth of God's grace and its sufficiency for sin -• Acknowledgment that God's grace is a gift through Jesus Christ -• Expression of belonging to God despite personal shortcomings -• Reference to the work of Jesus in affirming one's relationship with God -• Recitation of the Lord's name in prayer, followed by repeated amens \ No newline at end of file diff --git "a/Joseph #2\342\200\224Grace Conquers All (Sermon)_transcript.txt" "b/Joseph #2\342\200\224Grace Conquers All (Sermon)_transcript.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 76d260c2360553853553848d745934fff2d1c63c..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Joseph #2\342\200\224Grace Conquers All (Sermon)_transcript.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1109 +0,0 @@ -[0.92 --> 8.30] So this morning we continue a series on Joseph that I began two weeks ago and we looked at -[8.30 --> 18.50] Genesis 37 and today we're going to look at part two of that series and as we read this -[18.50 --> 24.26] you're going to ask yourself what on earth is that doing in the middle of the story of -[24.26 --> 33.22] Joseph? Well I'm going to explain that to you. This is Genesis 38. It begins with these words at -[33.22 --> 45.18] that time. We left Joseph on the way to Egypt. At that time Judah left his brothers and went down -[45.18 --> 53.66] to stay with a man of Adullam named Hira. There Judah met the daughter of a Canaanite man named -[53.66 --> 61.02] Shewet. He married her and made love to her. She became pregnant and gave birth to a son who was -[61.02 --> 68.86] named Er. She conceived again and gave birth to a son and named him Onan. She gave birth to still -[68.86 --> 77.40] another son and named him Shelah. It was at Kezeb that she gave birth to him. Judah got a wife for -[77.40 --> 84.26] Er his firstborn and her name was Tamar. But Er, Judah's firstborn, was wicked in the Lord's sight -[84.26 --> 91.62] and so the Lord put him to death. Then Judah said to Onan, sleep with your brother's wife and fulfill -[91.62 --> 98.44] your duty to her as a brother-in-law to raise up offspring for your brother. But Onan knew that the -[98.44 --> 104.34] child would not be his. So whenever he slept with his brother's wife, he spilled his semen on the ground -[104.34 --> 110.54] to keep from providing offspring for his brother. What he did was wicked in the Lord's sight. So the -[110.54 --> 119.06] Lord put him to death also. Judah then said to his daughter-in-law Tamar, live as a widow in your -[119.06 --> 126.22] father's household until my son Shelah grows up. For he thought he may die too, just like his brothers. -[126.22 --> 134.28] So Tamar went to live in her father's household. After a long time, Judah's wife, the daughter of -[134.28 --> 139.98] Shewa, died. When Judah had recovered from his grief, he went up to Timnah to the men who were -[139.98 --> 146.72] shearing his sheep and his friend Hira the Adullamite went with him. When Tamar was told, -[147.30 --> 153.12] your father-in-law is on his way to Timnah to shear his sheep, she took off her widow's clothes, -[153.12 --> 158.84] covered herself with a veil to disguise herself, and then sat down at the entrance to Enayim, -[159.30 --> 164.68] which is on the road to Timnah. For she saw that, though Shelah had now grown up, -[165.06 --> 171.96] she had not been given to him as his wife. When Judah saw her, he thought she was a prostitute, -[172.08 --> 177.64] for she had covered her face. Not realizing that she was his daughter-in-law, he went over to her by -[177.64 --> 184.62] the roadside and said, Come now, let me sleep with you. And what will you give me to sleep with you? -[184.70 --> 190.84] she asked. I'll send you a young goat from my flock, he said. Will you give me something as a -[190.84 --> 197.90] pledge until you send it? she asked. He said, What pledge should I give you? Your seal and its cord, -[197.90 --> 205.34] and the staff in your hand, she answered. So he gave them to her and slept with her, and she became -[205.34 --> 211.28] pregnant by him. After she left, she took off her veil and put on her widow's clothes again. -[212.54 --> 218.22] Meanwhile, Judah sent the young goat by his friend the Adullamite in order to get his pledge back from -[218.22 --> 224.96] the woman, but he did not find her. He asked the men who lived there, Where is the shrine prostitute who -[224.96 --> 229.96] was beside the road to Inaim? There hasn't been any shrine prostitute here, they said. -[230.98 --> 236.66] So he went back to Judah and said, I didn't find her. Besides, the men who lived there said, -[236.98 --> 242.96] There hasn't been any shrine prostitute here. Then Judah said, Let her keep what she has, -[243.06 --> 248.02] or we will become a laughing stock. After all, I did send her this young goat, but you didn't find her. -[248.02 --> 255.96] About three months later, Judah was told, Your daughter-in-law Tamar is guilty of prostitution, -[256.36 --> 263.10] and as a result, she is now pregnant. Judah said, Bring her out and have her burned to death. -[264.08 --> 267.18] As she was being brought out, she sent a message to her father-in-law. -[268.04 --> 275.72] I am pregnant by the man who owns these, she said. And she added, See if you recognize whose seal -[275.72 --> 284.28] and cord and staff these are. Judah recognized them and said, She is more righteous than I, -[284.86 --> 290.30] since I wouldn't give her to my son Sheila. And he did not sleep with her again. -[291.96 --> 297.38] When the time came for her to give birth, there were twin boys in her womb. As she was giving birth, -[297.48 --> 301.98] one of them put out his hand, so the midwife took a scarlet thread and tied it on his wrist and said, -[301.98 --> 308.04] This one came out first. But when he drew back his hand, his brother came out, and she said, -[308.40 --> 315.30] So, this is how you have broken out. And he was named Perez. Then his brother, who had the scarlet -[315.30 --> 323.64] thread on his wrist, came out, and he was named Zerah. And you thought your family was dysfunctional. -[323.64 --> 333.60] Let's pray. Gracious God, that is quite a story. And we pray now that you will help us to make -[333.60 --> 343.34] sense of it and to hear what you have to say to us today. Help us to listen. Help us to respond as -[343.34 --> 352.20] you would have us respond. In Jesus' name, amen. Well, the Bible sure has some funny stuff in it, -[352.20 --> 360.30] doesn't it? If you didn't know any better, you might wonder if this was actually a Bible story or a -[360.30 --> 367.10] transcript of an old Jerry Springer show. In case you are not familiar with Mr. Springer, -[367.64 --> 375.66] which would be a good thing, I think. His TV show got together all sorts of depraved and -[375.66 --> 383.16] related people and then put them together on stage where before a live studio audience, -[384.00 --> 390.06] a national TV audience, he egged them on to fight out their personal problems in front of everybody. -[392.24 --> 396.12] It was a show that exploited family trauma. -[396.12 --> 406.68] It was an ugly show, frankly. But if Judah and his family lived today, they would have been perfect -[406.68 --> 414.56] candidates for this show. And I think I'm safe in saying that while you may find the Joseph story in -[414.56 --> 422.18] any children's Bible, I can pretty much guarantee you that no children's Bible includes today's story. -[422.18 --> 430.46] Besides, what on earth does this story have to do with Joseph anyway? -[432.74 --> 438.60] Two weeks ago, we left Joseph on the way to Egypt, sold by his brothers into slavery. -[439.92 --> 445.64] We want to know what's happening to him. How's Joseph doing? Will Joseph survive? -[445.64 --> 452.78] But we're left in suspense, forced to first hear this story about brother Judah, whose idea it was, -[452.92 --> 456.30] remember, to sell Joseph instead of killing him. -[458.52 --> 463.84] You wonder why is the story told here? Frankly, why is it told at all? -[465.22 --> 469.02] What does it have to do with you? What does it have to do with me? -[469.02 --> 477.02] Understanding the story is further complicated by the fact that the sexual customs of these people -[477.02 --> 480.40] differ just a little from what most of us were taught. -[482.48 --> 487.90] For us, it is a rather unusual notion, I think, that a man's wife would get passed from brother to brother -[487.90 --> 491.38] to brother in the event of a husband's death. -[491.38 --> 498.38] Then there's not only the fact that Judah so casually goes to bed with someone he thought was a prostitute, -[499.26 --> 503.42] but that if she had been a real prostitute and not his daughter-in-law, -[503.78 --> 505.76] it wouldn't have been thought of as a big deal. -[508.28 --> 514.80] The real kicker is the fact that Tamar, who lies and commits incest, -[515.32 --> 518.02] is commended when all is said and done. -[518.02 --> 524.60] And then there's the last and the absolute biggest shocker of all. -[526.32 --> 529.12] But let's begin at the beginning. -[530.08 --> 535.68] The story itself, and that story occurs over a period of 20 years -[535.68 --> 539.14] that passed between the time the brothers sell Joseph -[539.14 --> 543.08] and their later meeting him again in Egypt. -[543.08 --> 549.06] Soon after getting rid of Joseph, at that time, says the story, -[550.06 --> 556.58] Judah leaves the family farm, marries a Canaanite girl, and has three sons by her. -[557.80 --> 562.90] When the oldest heir grew up, Judah arranges for him to marry a girl named Tamar, -[563.36 --> 568.04] meaning date palm, meaning she was lovely to look at. -[568.04 --> 573.26] But Arab barely survived the honeymoon. -[574.04 --> 575.82] He was wicked in the Lord's sight. -[576.18 --> 578.52] We read, though we don't know the nature of his wickedness, -[578.86 --> 582.04] so the Lord put him to death, though we don't know how. -[584.30 --> 586.92] To ensure the succession of the family line, -[587.20 --> 591.56] and according to custom, Judah gives Tamar to his second son, Onan. -[591.56 --> 597.14] And while Onan had no objection to sleeping with his lovely former sister-in-law, -[597.34 --> 599.08] he was not about to get her pregnant. -[600.00 --> 605.18] Not only would her children endanger his own part of Father Judah's estate, -[606.04 --> 609.56] they'd also keep him from getting his dead brother's share. -[610.06 --> 613.70] And so Onan uses the oldest form of birth control there is, -[613.70 --> 618.44] But what he did was wicked in the Lord's sight, -[619.00 --> 622.06] so the Lord put him to death also. -[622.92 --> 625.62] Though, again, we don't know how. -[627.12 --> 631.46] By now, of course, Judah thinks of Tamar as nothing short of bad luck. -[631.96 --> 635.56] And so he sends her back to her parents' home with the promise that eventually -[635.56 --> 638.08] she would get his youngest son in marriage. -[638.52 --> 641.36] But secretly he intends no such thing. -[641.36 --> 644.46] This girl is a husband killer. -[645.50 --> 651.76] And understandably, he didn't want to lose his third child, his last child, as well. -[653.84 --> 654.54] Understandably. -[655.56 --> 658.76] Yet, what Judah did was wrong. -[659.66 --> 663.00] Not just because he was breaking accepted custom, -[663.68 --> 667.24] one that would later be enshrined in the law of Moses as well. -[667.24 --> 671.68] No, you've got to read this story in its larger context, -[671.80 --> 677.34] especially in light of God's covenant promise to great-grandfather Abraham, -[677.82 --> 678.24] namely, -[679.02 --> 682.16] I will make you into a great nation, -[682.40 --> 683.82] and I will bless you, -[683.98 --> 687.10] and all peoples on earth will be blessed because, -[687.54 --> 689.02] or rather, through you. -[689.02 --> 692.24] Because of that covenant promise, -[692.40 --> 695.30] the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob -[695.30 --> 699.94] had a solemn obligation to be fruitful and multiply. -[700.44 --> 703.80] And anyone who, like Judah, refused to do this -[703.80 --> 706.00] was standing in God's way. -[707.92 --> 710.34] Now, Tamar wouldn't have had a clue about that. -[710.34 --> 717.80] Now, realizing over time that Judah had no intention of keeping his promise to her, -[718.74 --> 720.74] she was just looking for a solution -[720.74 --> 727.16] to the disastrous social status of being a childless widow. -[728.66 --> 732.06] Widows without a husband in that near-eastern culture, -[732.06 --> 733.22] even today, -[734.38 --> 735.02] as then, -[735.72 --> 739.84] are left to fend for themselves on the street. -[740.58 --> 742.18] They have no status, -[742.92 --> 744.22] no one to protect them, -[744.62 --> 747.00] no one to defend their rights. -[747.90 --> 751.72] Which is why the Bible consistently reminds God's people -[751.72 --> 754.86] to look after the widow and the orphan. -[755.82 --> 758.68] In fact, writes James in the New Testament, -[758.68 --> 761.40] religion, he writes, -[761.82 --> 765.56] that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless, -[766.32 --> 766.96] is this, -[767.76 --> 772.64] to look after orphans and widows in their distress, -[773.30 --> 777.68] and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. -[779.42 --> 782.10] But Judah is not that religious. -[783.38 --> 786.38] And so Tamar decides to grab the bull by the horns. -[786.38 --> 789.94] And finally, the opportunity arrives. -[791.10 --> 793.30] Judah's own wife dies. -[794.12 --> 795.74] And after a short period of mourning, -[795.86 --> 799.30] he decides to join the men shearing his sheep in Timnah. -[800.28 --> 804.76] And in a plan of action that does not say a whole lot about her father-in-law, -[805.60 --> 809.28] she disguises herself behind a sort of ancient burqa -[809.28 --> 811.26] and poses as a prostitute, -[812.12 --> 814.76] confident she could get the better of Judah that way. -[814.76 --> 817.72] And so she does. -[819.48 --> 822.88] No sooner does Judah see what he thinks is a prostitute, -[822.98 --> 824.20] and he propositions her, -[825.32 --> 827.36] come now, let me sleep with you. -[828.26 --> 830.24] And she says, and what will you give me -[830.24 --> 832.12] if I agree to do so? -[833.16 --> 836.26] He says, I'll send you a young goat from my flock. -[836.26 --> 841.42] But the old goat is not carrying a young goat in his back pocket, -[842.24 --> 846.00] and so he leaves her the ancient equivalent, you might say, -[846.32 --> 849.28] of his driver's license to guarantee payment. -[850.72 --> 853.92] Thus the deal is struck, the deed is done. -[853.92 --> 860.60] And the ultimate result is that both their fondest wishes come true. -[862.50 --> 864.30] Tamar conceives a child. -[865.72 --> 868.84] And when a servant notices her belly beginning to bulge a few months later -[868.84 --> 869.82] and informs Judah, -[870.44 --> 875.12] Judah gets his opportunity to get rid of this bad luck woman, -[876.40 --> 879.10] free his youngest son to marry someone else, -[879.10 --> 883.34] and be done with the whole thing without getting into trouble for doing so. -[883.44 --> 886.54] After all, Tamar is clearly guilty of adultery, -[886.90 --> 888.72] punishable by death. -[890.16 --> 890.40] Whew. -[891.84 --> 893.36] Talk about a double standard, -[894.06 --> 896.30] which is as old as time. -[897.74 --> 902.18] But here is where Tamar plays her trump card. -[902.18 --> 903.14] Pardon the pun. -[903.14 --> 906.46] For as she's brought into the village, -[907.50 --> 911.38] where her wood has already been piled up for her execution, -[912.10 --> 916.60] she hands Judah his driver's license, so to speak, -[916.92 --> 922.02] and says, I am pregnant by the man whose picture is on this card. -[923.16 --> 924.64] Do you recognize him? -[926.08 --> 927.46] And give Judah credit. -[928.36 --> 930.32] At least he owns up to his own sin. -[930.32 --> 933.44] Swallowing hard, perhaps, he admits, -[933.64 --> 935.22] you are a better person than I am. -[935.52 --> 936.92] You are more righteous than I. -[937.24 --> 939.24] You did this because of my failure -[939.24 --> 941.54] to let you marry my youngest son. -[942.84 --> 943.80] And that was that. -[944.96 --> 946.76] And in due time, Tamar gives birth -[946.76 --> 950.26] to twin boys who were named Perez and Zerah. -[952.78 --> 953.66] That's the story. -[955.58 --> 957.80] Now the question is, why? -[957.80 --> 962.24] What's the point of this sordid story, -[962.38 --> 962.98] which, if anything, -[963.18 --> 965.74] sounds even more depraved -[965.74 --> 967.80] than what you see on trash TV? -[968.88 --> 970.80] Why not, at least in the Bible, -[971.10 --> 971.70] in the church, -[971.82 --> 974.62] stick to nice, wholesome stories? -[976.90 --> 978.70] Well, then I want to look at this -[978.70 --> 981.28] the way that police photographers -[981.28 --> 983.88] look at a serious traffic accident. -[983.88 --> 987.84] They usually take at least three different shots. -[988.06 --> 990.44] First, there's this wide-angle shot -[990.44 --> 992.60] into which they cram as much -[992.60 --> 994.82] of the surrounding area as possible -[994.82 --> 996.26] for a total perspective -[996.26 --> 998.48] in which the accident took place. -[999.84 --> 1002.52] Second, there is a mid-range shot, -[1002.60 --> 1004.64] which gives them more immediate context. -[1005.50 --> 1006.28] And then third, -[1007.32 --> 1010.22] they zoom right in for a close-up shot -[1010.22 --> 1011.42] to record in detail -[1011.42 --> 1014.32] the damage sustained by each vehicle. -[1015.34 --> 1016.08] Taken together, -[1016.26 --> 1019.06] the three photos show what actually happened. -[1020.56 --> 1022.10] So taking that approach, -[1022.22 --> 1023.30] but working backwards, -[1023.62 --> 1025.94] we start with a close-up shot, -[1026.66 --> 1029.96] the context of the Joseph story. -[1029.96 --> 1033.22] The main thing to note here -[1033.22 --> 1035.54] is the change that takes place -[1035.54 --> 1037.76] in Judah by the end. -[1039.66 --> 1041.02] It was Judah's idea -[1041.02 --> 1042.82] to sell Joseph into slavery. -[1044.62 --> 1046.70] And Genesis 38 only emphasizes -[1046.70 --> 1047.96] his cold-hearted, -[1048.28 --> 1049.74] his callous character -[1049.74 --> 1052.44] until he gets a taste -[1052.44 --> 1053.58] of his own medicine. -[1054.78 --> 1057.84] There is a deliberate parallel here -[1057.84 --> 1060.04] between Judah handing -[1060.04 --> 1062.26] Joseph's blood-soaked dream coat -[1062.26 --> 1063.36] to Father Jacob -[1063.36 --> 1064.40] and asking, -[1064.96 --> 1066.22] Do you recognize this? -[1067.32 --> 1071.08] And Tamar handing father-in-law Judah -[1071.08 --> 1072.78] his personal identification -[1072.78 --> 1073.88] and asking, -[1074.38 --> 1076.28] Do you recognize this? -[1077.98 --> 1079.94] Talk about poetic justice. -[1081.38 --> 1082.20] But clearly, -[1082.52 --> 1083.42] and to his credit, -[1084.36 --> 1086.72] Judah is genuinely humbled. -[1087.84 --> 1089.64] Seeing close up, -[1090.06 --> 1092.70] this story pictures -[1092.70 --> 1094.42] a severe mercy -[1094.42 --> 1096.28] which breaks through -[1096.28 --> 1098.88] Judah's hard head and heart. -[1101.12 --> 1103.94] Neither Judah nor Tamar -[1103.94 --> 1105.56] could be considered -[1105.56 --> 1107.48] biblical role models, okay? -[1108.06 --> 1109.06] You wouldn't likely -[1109.06 --> 1110.88] celebrate with the words -[1110.88 --> 1112.26] WWTD. -[1112.54 --> 1113.56] What would Tamar do? -[1113.56 --> 1116.38] or compose a song -[1116.38 --> 1116.84] entitled -[1116.84 --> 1118.00] Dare to be a Judah. -[1119.80 --> 1121.24] But here is the thing. -[1122.52 --> 1124.60] Precisely in their weakness, -[1124.90 --> 1126.76] in their mistakes each makes, -[1126.84 --> 1128.86] in the sin into which they fall, -[1129.62 --> 1130.94] somehow in and through -[1130.94 --> 1131.98] all of that, -[1132.36 --> 1133.70] each of us, -[1133.84 --> 1135.26] even if you haven't -[1135.26 --> 1137.26] sunk that low in your life, -[1137.32 --> 1138.30] or if you have, -[1139.78 --> 1140.84] in some way -[1140.84 --> 1141.58] can identify -[1141.58 --> 1142.96] with these two. -[1144.40 --> 1145.76] And then the simple -[1145.76 --> 1147.20] good news of this story -[1147.20 --> 1148.58] in a narrow sense -[1148.58 --> 1149.56] is that grace -[1149.56 --> 1151.96] conquers anything -[1151.96 --> 1153.42] and everything. -[1154.46 --> 1155.78] That God can change -[1155.78 --> 1156.96] even the coldest, -[1157.12 --> 1157.66] hardest, -[1157.88 --> 1158.94] most self-righteous, -[1159.06 --> 1160.28] and depraved hearts. -[1161.04 --> 1162.42] And if God could do it -[1162.42 --> 1162.94] with Judah -[1162.94 --> 1163.86] and with Tamar, -[1163.86 --> 1164.88] he can do it -[1164.88 --> 1166.18] with any of us. -[1166.18 --> 1169.24] The fact is, -[1169.34 --> 1170.96] in the rest of the Joseph story, -[1171.30 --> 1172.16] as we will see, -[1173.38 --> 1174.04] we will see -[1174.04 --> 1175.08] to what extent -[1175.08 --> 1176.22] God's grace -[1176.22 --> 1177.44] transformed -[1177.44 --> 1178.88] Judah's life. -[1180.32 --> 1181.60] Once the ringleader -[1181.60 --> 1183.12] in selling his brother Joseph -[1183.12 --> 1184.28] into slavery -[1184.28 --> 1185.82] near the end of Genesis, -[1186.00 --> 1186.54] when another -[1186.54 --> 1187.52] of his brothers -[1187.52 --> 1188.28] is at risk -[1188.28 --> 1189.38] and before he knew -[1189.38 --> 1190.58] what had really happened -[1190.58 --> 1191.18] to Joseph, -[1192.96 --> 1194.18] Judah will offer himself -[1194.18 --> 1195.36] as a hostage -[1195.36 --> 1197.72] and a slave -[1197.72 --> 1199.68] in brother Benjamin's place. -[1201.18 --> 1202.24] And many years later, -[1202.32 --> 1203.46] when old father Jacob -[1203.46 --> 1204.64] lies on his deathbed -[1204.64 --> 1205.50] and all of his sons -[1205.50 --> 1206.48] are gathered around -[1206.48 --> 1207.10] once more, -[1207.50 --> 1208.92] God inspires Jacob -[1208.92 --> 1210.84] to give this great prophecy -[1210.84 --> 1211.62] about Judah. -[1212.68 --> 1214.42] Father Jacob calls Judah -[1214.42 --> 1215.34] once no better -[1215.34 --> 1216.30] than an alley cat, -[1216.42 --> 1216.98] a lion, -[1217.76 --> 1218.18] and declares -[1218.70 --> 1219.92] that the line of Judah -[1219.92 --> 1221.62] and Tamar -[1221.62 --> 1223.42] will be a royal line -[1223.42 --> 1224.64] that will eventually -[1224.64 --> 1226.04] produce the ruler -[1226.04 --> 1227.68] of all nations. -[1230.14 --> 1231.82] Now the mid-range shot. -[1233.24 --> 1234.32] The larger context -[1234.32 --> 1235.00] of Genesis -[1235.00 --> 1237.06] as a whole. -[1239.22 --> 1240.74] Here we've already seen -[1240.74 --> 1242.18] how this story ties in -[1242.18 --> 1243.26] with God's covenant -[1243.26 --> 1243.96] with Abraham -[1243.96 --> 1245.10] and the need -[1245.10 --> 1245.78] for Abraham -[1245.78 --> 1246.72] and his descendants -[1246.72 --> 1247.64] to be fruitful -[1247.64 --> 1248.68] and multiply. -[1249.60 --> 1250.96] But here is also -[1250.96 --> 1252.16] another example -[1252.16 --> 1254.94] of younger siblings -[1254.94 --> 1256.12] being blessed -[1256.12 --> 1257.66] in reversal -[1257.66 --> 1259.38] of accepted human tradition -[1259.38 --> 1261.72] instead of older ones. -[1262.84 --> 1264.30] Due to the death -[1264.30 --> 1265.78] of his two older sons, -[1266.00 --> 1267.24] Judah's youngest son -[1267.24 --> 1269.06] becomes the sole heir. -[1270.28 --> 1271.42] Then at the very end -[1271.42 --> 1272.44] of Genesis 38, -[1272.56 --> 1273.38] we have a repeat -[1273.38 --> 1274.58] of the Jacob and Esau -[1274.58 --> 1275.38] birth story -[1275.38 --> 1276.70] when the twin babies -[1276.70 --> 1277.76] of Tamar, -[1278.14 --> 1279.28] or when the twin baby -[1279.28 --> 1279.82] of Tamar, -[1279.88 --> 1280.50] who looked like -[1280.50 --> 1281.72] he was coming out first, -[1282.78 --> 1283.58] instead, -[1284.58 --> 1286.86] ends up being born second. -[1288.24 --> 1290.40] Both these reversals, -[1291.18 --> 1292.64] along with all the others -[1292.64 --> 1294.22] you find in Genesis, -[1294.42 --> 1295.26] are God's way -[1295.26 --> 1296.64] of reminding us again -[1296.64 --> 1298.02] of the sovereignty -[1298.02 --> 1299.38] of his choosing, -[1299.60 --> 1300.54] of his grace. -[1301.28 --> 1302.96] Every time God saves, -[1303.20 --> 1303.86] raises up, -[1304.00 --> 1305.30] or works through someone -[1305.30 --> 1306.16] on the bottom -[1306.16 --> 1307.32] of the social heap, -[1307.32 --> 1309.00] it is a reminder -[1309.00 --> 1310.24] that God's salvation -[1310.24 --> 1311.44] is not based -[1311.44 --> 1313.68] on merit, -[1314.16 --> 1315.78] not on social standing, -[1316.10 --> 1318.14] not on any human tradition -[1318.14 --> 1319.36] or measure -[1319.36 --> 1320.14] of determining -[1320.14 --> 1321.24] one's value, -[1321.24 --> 1322.36] but solely -[1322.36 --> 1323.70] and always -[1323.70 --> 1325.52] by grace alone. -[1327.60 --> 1328.58] Throughout the book -[1328.58 --> 1329.16] of Genesis, -[1329.82 --> 1330.98] God works the miracle -[1330.98 --> 1331.82] of his grace -[1331.82 --> 1332.80] in the lives -[1332.80 --> 1334.46] of a lot of misguided, -[1334.46 --> 1335.24] weak, -[1335.66 --> 1336.06] frail, -[1336.64 --> 1337.68] faulty people. -[1338.22 --> 1339.66] God sticks with Abraham -[1339.66 --> 1341.54] despite several -[1341.54 --> 1342.54] early failures -[1342.54 --> 1343.28] of trust, -[1343.68 --> 1344.40] despite his -[1344.40 --> 1344.98] and Sarah's -[1344.98 --> 1345.46] laughter -[1345.46 --> 1346.94] in God's face. -[1347.28 --> 1348.52] God sticks with Jacob -[1348.52 --> 1349.42] despite his being -[1349.42 --> 1350.04] a liar, -[1350.62 --> 1351.24] a cheat, -[1351.68 --> 1352.20] a crook. -[1353.20 --> 1354.74] God sticks with Judah, -[1355.66 --> 1356.84] bringing into his life -[1356.84 --> 1358.68] a most amazing -[1358.68 --> 1359.98] gift of children, -[1360.14 --> 1361.12] not just for Judah, -[1361.24 --> 1362.00] but ultimately -[1362.00 --> 1363.34] for all Israel -[1363.34 --> 1364.88] and for the whole world -[1364.88 --> 1366.40] through the most -[1366.40 --> 1367.40] unlikely means -[1367.40 --> 1368.98] you could possibly imagine, -[1369.80 --> 1370.98] Tamar's playing -[1370.98 --> 1371.88] the prostitute -[1371.88 --> 1373.38] and committing incest -[1373.38 --> 1374.90] with her father-in-law. -[1377.86 --> 1379.08] Had it been left up -[1379.08 --> 1379.64] to Judah, -[1380.56 --> 1381.94] Tamar would never -[1381.94 --> 1382.80] have had a child, -[1384.08 --> 1385.62] and both Judah's role -[1385.62 --> 1386.62] in Joseph's life -[1386.62 --> 1387.46] and Judah's place -[1387.46 --> 1388.72] in God's covenant family -[1388.72 --> 1389.60] would have ended -[1389.60 --> 1390.20] right here -[1390.20 --> 1391.36] in Genesis 38. -[1392.00 --> 1393.86] But somehow, -[1394.82 --> 1395.70] and now we come -[1395.70 --> 1397.32] to the wide-angled shot -[1397.32 --> 1398.14] of the story -[1398.14 --> 1399.98] and the biggest shocker -[1399.98 --> 1400.50] of all, -[1401.64 --> 1402.78] God manages -[1402.78 --> 1404.14] to accomplish -[1404.14 --> 1405.38] something amazing -[1405.38 --> 1406.18] through even -[1406.18 --> 1407.98] the morally -[1407.98 --> 1409.32] dubious actions -[1409.32 --> 1410.68] of this woman. -[1411.86 --> 1412.68] For Tamar -[1412.68 --> 1415.88] became the great-grandmother -[1415.88 --> 1418.30] seven generations removed -[1418.30 --> 1420.26] of no less a person -[1420.26 --> 1421.38] than King David, -[1422.00 --> 1423.82] and so finally -[1423.82 --> 1425.54] the ancestral mother -[1425.54 --> 1426.72] of the line -[1426.72 --> 1427.52] that produced -[1427.52 --> 1429.54] Jesus of Nazareth. -[1430.54 --> 1432.04] Because of the strange -[1432.04 --> 1432.84] little plan -[1432.84 --> 1434.08] of sexual deception -[1434.08 --> 1435.48] executed by this -[1435.48 --> 1437.26] Canaanite woman, -[1437.42 --> 1437.92] no less, -[1438.92 --> 1440.46] Israel one day -[1440.46 --> 1441.82] got its David -[1441.82 --> 1443.66] and the world -[1443.66 --> 1445.06] and we -[1445.06 --> 1447.06] got its Messiah. -[1447.06 --> 1450.04] as the New Testament -[1450.04 --> 1450.58] opens, -[1450.72 --> 1451.40] Matthew's gospel -[1451.40 --> 1452.12] begins with the -[1452.12 --> 1453.26] family tree of Jesus -[1453.26 --> 1454.28] and contrary -[1454.28 --> 1455.76] to all accepted -[1455.76 --> 1456.74] custom and tradition, -[1457.86 --> 1458.58] Matthew goes out -[1458.58 --> 1459.24] of his way -[1459.24 --> 1460.12] to include -[1460.12 --> 1461.14] in that genealogy -[1461.14 --> 1461.66] of Jesus -[1461.66 --> 1462.48] no less than -[1462.48 --> 1463.42] four women, -[1464.36 --> 1465.24] each of them -[1465.24 --> 1466.34] non-Jewish, -[1467.08 --> 1467.74] three of them -[1467.74 --> 1469.06] with checkered pasts -[1469.66 --> 1470.12] beginning -[1470.12 --> 1471.70] with you-know-who. -[1471.70 --> 1473.32] Listen. -[1474.52 --> 1475.56] A record of the -[1475.56 --> 1476.82] genealogy of Jesus -[1476.82 --> 1477.24] Christ, -[1477.34 --> 1478.08] the son of David, -[1478.34 --> 1479.16] the son of Abraham. -[1480.08 --> 1481.14] Abraham was the -[1481.14 --> 1481.98] father of Isaac, -[1482.54 --> 1483.44] Isaac the father -[1483.44 --> 1484.00] of Jacob, -[1484.92 --> 1485.80] Jacob the father -[1485.80 --> 1486.26] of Judah -[1486.26 --> 1487.00] and his brothers, -[1487.80 --> 1488.52] Judah the father -[1488.52 --> 1489.20] of Perez -[1489.20 --> 1490.62] and Zerah -[1490.62 --> 1491.72] whose mother -[1491.72 --> 1493.28] was Tamar. -[1493.28 --> 1495.98] that is, -[1496.16 --> 1496.98] the New Testament -[1496.98 --> 1498.66] opens with this -[1498.66 --> 1500.00] powerful testimony -[1500.00 --> 1502.08] of God's love -[1502.08 --> 1503.60] for all peoples -[1503.60 --> 1504.58] on earth, -[1505.18 --> 1506.14] not just Israel, -[1506.88 --> 1508.24] with a moving -[1508.24 --> 1508.76] portrait -[1508.76 --> 1510.98] of God's providence, -[1511.14 --> 1512.36] a divine will -[1512.36 --> 1512.98] and plan -[1512.98 --> 1513.56] that can -[1513.56 --> 1514.76] and often does -[1514.76 --> 1515.58] move forward -[1515.58 --> 1516.30] through even -[1516.30 --> 1517.14] the messiest -[1517.14 --> 1518.18] of circumstances -[1518.18 --> 1520.48] and with an -[1520.48 --> 1521.88] amazing proclamation -[1521.88 --> 1523.06] of a grace -[1523.06 --> 1524.00] that is bigger -[1524.00 --> 1525.30] than any -[1525.30 --> 1527.04] and every -[1527.04 --> 1528.50] human sin. -[1530.06 --> 1531.50] And that testimony, -[1531.74 --> 1532.32] that portrait, -[1532.46 --> 1533.30] that proclamation -[1533.30 --> 1534.96] centers on the one -[1534.96 --> 1536.22] to whom God's -[1536.22 --> 1537.22] covenant promise -[1537.22 --> 1538.48] always pointed -[1538.48 --> 1539.60] from the beginning, -[1540.62 --> 1541.70] Jesus Christ. -[1543.08 --> 1543.92] For when Jesus -[1543.92 --> 1544.82] came and lived -[1544.82 --> 1545.34] on earth, -[1545.68 --> 1546.66] let's be honest now, -[1546.92 --> 1547.76] He so often -[1547.76 --> 1548.76] associated with, -[1548.80 --> 1549.52] He deliberately -[1549.52 --> 1550.38] sought out -[1550.38 --> 1551.54] the very kind -[1551.54 --> 1552.02] of people -[1552.02 --> 1552.84] we often -[1552.84 --> 1553.92] prefer to avoid -[1553.92 --> 1554.58] or pass -[1554.58 --> 1555.60] self-ruggest -[1555.60 --> 1556.60] judgment on, -[1556.82 --> 1557.86] the kind of people -[1557.86 --> 1558.90] who, like Judah -[1558.90 --> 1559.82] and Tamar, -[1560.06 --> 1560.58] would have made -[1560.58 --> 1561.80] excellent candidates -[1561.80 --> 1563.28] for the trash TV -[1563.28 --> 1564.38] programs of Jerry -[1564.38 --> 1564.80] Springer -[1564.80 --> 1565.78] and his ilk. -[1567.72 --> 1568.62] Jesus showed -[1568.62 --> 1569.22] compassion -[1569.22 --> 1570.68] for prostitutes -[1570.68 --> 1572.02] and many -[1572.02 --> 1573.02] became His disciples. -[1574.06 --> 1574.70] He went out -[1574.70 --> 1575.36] of His way -[1575.36 --> 1576.52] to share God's love -[1576.52 --> 1577.92] with a Samaritan woman -[1577.92 --> 1578.48] who had already -[1578.48 --> 1579.52] had five husbands -[1579.52 --> 1580.84] and was currently -[1580.84 --> 1581.80] living common law -[1581.80 --> 1582.92] with a sixth man. -[1584.14 --> 1585.12] He dealt graciously -[1585.12 --> 1585.70] with the woman -[1585.70 --> 1587.00] caught in adultery -[1587.00 --> 1588.00] by inviting -[1588.00 --> 1589.08] any of the witnesses -[1589.08 --> 1590.10] who had dragged her -[1590.10 --> 1591.02] to Him for judgment -[1591.02 --> 1593.72] and who were without sin -[1593.72 --> 1595.70] to throw the first stone. -[1596.82 --> 1597.92] And when they all -[1597.92 --> 1598.48] disappeared -[1598.48 --> 1599.66] and no one was left -[1599.66 --> 1600.20] to condemn, -[1600.92 --> 1601.70] He said to her, -[1602.54 --> 1603.48] then neither do I -[1603.48 --> 1604.08] condemn you. -[1604.80 --> 1605.42] Go now -[1605.42 --> 1606.00] and leave -[1606.00 --> 1606.72] your life -[1606.72 --> 1607.34] of sin. -[1609.30 --> 1610.84] This is God's -[1610.84 --> 1611.92] good news -[1611.92 --> 1613.04] for sinners. -[1614.38 --> 1615.12] The gospel -[1615.12 --> 1615.84] is not just -[1615.84 --> 1616.36] the message -[1616.36 --> 1617.10] that nobody -[1617.10 --> 1617.78] is perfect -[1617.78 --> 1618.92] and we should -[1618.92 --> 1619.70] be more tolerant. -[1620.82 --> 1621.86] It is not just -[1621.86 --> 1623.28] a list of good morals -[1623.28 --> 1624.22] that we can follow -[1624.22 --> 1625.18] if only we try -[1625.18 --> 1626.34] a little harder. -[1627.46 --> 1628.68] And it isn't just -[1628.68 --> 1630.18] nice stories -[1630.18 --> 1631.88] about squeaky clean -[1631.88 --> 1632.54] heroes -[1632.54 --> 1634.08] and perfect families -[1634.08 --> 1634.74] that we should all -[1634.74 --> 1635.44] try to imitate. -[1637.46 --> 1638.42] The gospel -[1638.42 --> 1639.38] is the message -[1639.38 --> 1640.66] about a holy God -[1640.66 --> 1642.48] who has every right -[1642.48 --> 1643.50] to judge us -[1643.50 --> 1646.04] but has instead -[1646.04 --> 1647.66] set aside -[1647.66 --> 1649.12] our pasts -[1649.12 --> 1649.88] and give us -[1649.88 --> 1650.74] a fresh start -[1650.74 --> 1652.40] through Jesus Christ. -[1652.88 --> 1653.50] The gospel -[1653.50 --> 1655.10] is the voice -[1655.10 --> 1655.64] of Jesus -[1655.64 --> 1657.38] saying to every sinner, -[1658.48 --> 1659.38] neither do I -[1659.38 --> 1660.10] condemn you. -[1660.84 --> 1661.38] Go now -[1661.38 --> 1662.60] and leave -[1662.60 --> 1663.10] your life -[1663.10 --> 1663.72] of sin. -[1664.74 --> 1667.46] none of us -[1667.46 --> 1669.26] I think -[1669.26 --> 1670.78] would want to -[1670.78 --> 1671.82] imitate Tamar -[1671.82 --> 1672.36] or Judah -[1672.36 --> 1674.90] but we do -[1674.90 --> 1675.38] recognize -[1675.38 --> 1676.66] that sometimes -[1676.66 --> 1678.44] we are like them -[1678.44 --> 1679.04] anyway, -[1679.26 --> 1679.76] don't we? -[1679.96 --> 1681.36] We make mistakes. -[1682.04 --> 1683.12] We find ourselves -[1683.12 --> 1684.00] doing and saying -[1684.00 --> 1684.80] things that get -[1684.80 --> 1685.98] into God's way -[1685.98 --> 1687.66] and amazingly -[1687.66 --> 1688.40] sometimes -[1688.40 --> 1689.42] we too discover -[1689.42 --> 1691.42] that God accomplishes -[1691.42 --> 1692.30] something good -[1692.30 --> 1693.24] in our lives -[1693.24 --> 1695.12] despite how undeserving -[1695.12 --> 1695.56] we are, -[1695.64 --> 1696.66] despite how badly -[1696.66 --> 1699.38] we mess things up. -[1701.30 --> 1702.60] In any event, -[1702.76 --> 1703.36] life teaches -[1703.36 --> 1704.14] all of us -[1704.14 --> 1705.68] how much -[1705.68 --> 1706.88] we need grace -[1706.88 --> 1708.56] and if -[1708.56 --> 1709.12] at the end -[1709.12 --> 1709.72] of the day -[1709.72 --> 1710.62] we find that -[1710.62 --> 1711.56] we have received -[1711.56 --> 1712.32] such grace, -[1713.56 --> 1714.84] if we like Tamar -[1714.84 --> 1715.78] are amazed -[1715.78 --> 1716.88] to find our names -[1716.88 --> 1717.76] appearing in the -[1717.76 --> 1718.66] family tree -[1718.66 --> 1719.38] of Jesus -[1719.38 --> 1720.50] having been -[1720.50 --> 1721.06] adopted -[1721.06 --> 1723.18] into the -[1723.18 --> 1724.24] divine family -[1724.24 --> 1726.02] despite all -[1726.02 --> 1726.68] that we have -[1726.68 --> 1727.08] done to -[1727.08 --> 1727.92] disqualify -[1727.92 --> 1728.54] ourselves, -[1729.74 --> 1730.10] well, -[1730.46 --> 1731.38] then it's just -[1731.38 --> 1732.08] another reason -[1732.08 --> 1733.38] to give glory -[1733.38 --> 1734.04] to the God -[1734.04 --> 1735.16] whose grace -[1735.16 --> 1735.86] is sufficient, -[1736.38 --> 1737.36] whose love -[1737.36 --> 1738.16] is never ending, -[1738.66 --> 1739.22] and whose -[1739.22 --> 1740.44] providential care -[1740.44 --> 1741.48] is often as -[1741.48 --> 1742.10] surprising -[1742.10 --> 1743.84] as it is -[1743.84 --> 1744.38] constant. -[1746.88 --> 1747.64] And you know, -[1747.74 --> 1748.66] especially if you -[1748.66 --> 1749.20] are part of -[1749.20 --> 1749.74] the family -[1749.74 --> 1751.40] that even -[1751.40 --> 1752.34] our dysfunctional -[1752.34 --> 1752.72] culture -[1752.72 --> 1753.96] would label -[1753.96 --> 1755.38] as dysfunctional, -[1756.66 --> 1757.12] especially -[1757.12 --> 1759.28] even if you -[1759.28 --> 1759.96] and your family -[1759.96 --> 1760.32] are just -[1760.32 --> 1760.90] the kind of -[1760.90 --> 1761.20] people -[1761.20 --> 1762.40] someone like -[1762.40 --> 1762.96] Jerry Springer -[1762.96 --> 1763.96] looked for, -[1764.96 --> 1765.58] then listen, -[1766.82 --> 1768.26] God is looking -[1768.26 --> 1768.96] for you too, -[1770.04 --> 1771.62] not to humiliate -[1771.62 --> 1771.90] you, -[1772.98 --> 1773.54] but Jesus -[1773.54 --> 1774.50] came to seek -[1774.50 --> 1775.96] and to save -[1775.96 --> 1776.88] sinners. -[1778.36 --> 1779.44] Genesis 38 -[1779.44 --> 1780.10] and the whole -[1780.10 --> 1780.80] Bible says -[1780.80 --> 1781.42] that if God -[1781.42 --> 1782.00] could change -[1782.00 --> 1782.62] a man like -[1782.62 --> 1783.20] Judah for the -[1783.20 --> 1783.44] better, -[1784.38 --> 1785.18] he can change -[1785.18 --> 1785.44] you. -[1786.12 --> 1786.94] If God -[1786.94 --> 1787.48] could carry -[1787.48 --> 1787.94] out such -[1787.94 --> 1788.32] a great -[1788.32 --> 1788.94] purpose in -[1788.94 --> 1789.38] Judah's -[1789.38 --> 1790.34] and Tamar's -[1790.34 --> 1790.96] family as -[1790.96 --> 1791.46] having his -[1791.46 --> 1792.08] own son, -[1792.40 --> 1793.04] the Messiah, -[1793.38 --> 1793.78] come from -[1793.78 --> 1794.42] their family -[1794.42 --> 1794.86] tree, -[1795.86 --> 1798.26] he can -[1798.26 --> 1799.06] certainly yet -[1799.06 --> 1799.74] carry out -[1799.74 --> 1800.54] a good -[1800.54 --> 1801.54] purpose in -[1801.54 --> 1802.22] your family -[1802.22 --> 1802.92] no matter -[1802.92 --> 1803.84] how messed -[1803.84 --> 1805.94] up it -[1805.94 --> 1806.52] has become. -[1807.84 --> 1808.84] It all -[1808.84 --> 1809.56] depends on -[1809.56 --> 1810.28] God's blessing -[1810.28 --> 1811.48] and your -[1811.48 --> 1812.18] trusting him, -[1812.98 --> 1814.38] not on your -[1814.38 --> 1815.72] qualifications or -[1815.72 --> 1816.76] lack thereof. -[1818.66 --> 1819.50] Ultimately, -[1819.82 --> 1820.96] that is why -[1820.96 --> 1822.36] God included -[1822.36 --> 1823.16] even this -[1823.16 --> 1824.14] ugly story -[1824.14 --> 1825.10] in his -[1825.10 --> 1826.16] larger story -[1826.16 --> 1827.70] because it -[1827.70 --> 1828.26] takes a -[1828.26 --> 1828.82] lifetime. -[1829.62 --> 1830.30] It takes -[1830.30 --> 1831.06] a lifetime -[1831.06 --> 1832.34] to really -[1832.34 --> 1833.10] get the -[1833.10 --> 1833.94] hardest yet -[1833.94 --> 1834.82] most beautiful -[1834.82 --> 1835.58] lesson of the -[1835.58 --> 1836.80] gospel spelled -[1836.80 --> 1837.50] out in this -[1837.50 --> 1838.46] story in big, -[1838.78 --> 1839.56] easy to read -[1839.56 --> 1840.02] letters. -[1840.54 --> 1841.88] God saves -[1841.88 --> 1843.04] by grace, -[1843.78 --> 1845.24] not by merit, -[1846.54 --> 1847.16] a grace that -[1847.16 --> 1847.74] is wider, -[1848.34 --> 1848.74] higher, -[1849.32 --> 1849.64] deeper, -[1850.20 --> 1850.92] bigger than -[1850.92 --> 1852.52] any and -[1852.52 --> 1853.86] all our -[1853.86 --> 1854.14] sin. -[1854.14 --> 1856.40] Here God -[1856.40 --> 1857.10] reminds us -[1857.10 --> 1857.76] that even -[1857.76 --> 1858.70] in sinful, -[1858.92 --> 1859.24] messed up -[1859.24 --> 1859.68] lives, -[1860.54 --> 1861.06] he is in -[1861.06 --> 1861.40] charge. -[1861.70 --> 1862.12] Nothing can -[1862.12 --> 1862.64] stop his -[1862.64 --> 1863.36] promises from -[1863.36 --> 1864.12] being fulfilled -[1864.12 --> 1864.90] and there is -[1864.90 --> 1865.68] nothing and -[1865.68 --> 1866.20] there is no -[1866.20 --> 1866.78] one he -[1866.78 --> 1867.50] cannot use -[1867.50 --> 1867.94] for his -[1867.94 --> 1868.58] good purpose -[1868.58 --> 1869.96] to bless -[1869.96 --> 1870.64] all people -[1870.64 --> 1871.18] on earth -[1871.18 --> 1872.10] including -[1872.10 --> 1873.74] you. -[1874.92 --> 1875.84] God is at -[1875.84 --> 1876.96] work directing -[1876.96 --> 1877.76] things towards -[1877.76 --> 1878.40] his gracious -[1878.40 --> 1879.16] ends in -[1879.16 --> 1880.70] every circumstance. -[1881.62 --> 1882.48] So if you've -[1882.48 --> 1883.10] got a family -[1883.10 --> 1883.64] that's nice -[1883.64 --> 1884.18] and proper -[1884.18 --> 1885.36] and wholesome -[1885.36 --> 1886.00] and everything, -[1886.84 --> 1887.42] thank God -[1887.42 --> 1888.06] for it. -[1888.86 --> 1889.40] Humbly. -[1890.48 --> 1891.24] And if you're -[1891.24 --> 1891.76] in a family -[1891.76 --> 1892.20] that seems -[1892.20 --> 1893.20] hopelessly sinful -[1893.20 --> 1894.26] and messed up -[1894.26 --> 1895.22] and dysfunctional, -[1895.48 --> 1896.02] this story -[1896.02 --> 1896.68] declares the -[1896.68 --> 1897.18] message of -[1897.18 --> 1897.80] good news, -[1898.40 --> 1898.96] there's hope. -[1899.82 --> 1900.38] Really, -[1900.60 --> 1901.18] there's hope -[1901.18 --> 1902.26] also for you. -[1904.52 --> 1905.50] And one last -[1905.50 --> 1905.72] thing. -[1907.08 --> 1907.92] This story -[1907.92 --> 1908.54] declares a -[1908.54 --> 1909.80] message that -[1909.80 --> 1910.50] needs to shape -[1910.50 --> 1911.24] our attitude -[1911.24 --> 1912.20] as we minister -[1912.20 --> 1913.08] in our -[1913.08 --> 1913.88] God-forsaking -[1913.88 --> 1914.84] culture today -[1914.84 --> 1916.62] in all kinds -[1916.62 --> 1917.12] of family -[1917.12 --> 1918.02] situations -[1918.02 --> 1919.34] that tempt -[1919.34 --> 1919.84] us either -[1919.84 --> 1920.80] to avoidance -[1920.80 --> 1923.14] or self-righteousness. -[1924.60 --> 1924.90] Jesus -[1924.90 --> 1926.34] does not -[1926.34 --> 1927.06] avoid sinners. -[1928.54 --> 1928.78] Jesus -[1928.78 --> 1929.50] saves them. -[1930.38 --> 1930.88] Jesus was -[1930.88 --> 1931.40] willing to -[1931.40 --> 1931.94] join a -[1931.94 --> 1932.66] family tree -[1932.66 --> 1933.30] that included -[1933.30 --> 1933.96] incest, -[1934.38 --> 1935.06] prostitution, -[1935.42 --> 1935.86] adultery, -[1935.86 --> 1936.68] and murder. -[1938.08 --> 1938.34] Jesus -[1938.34 --> 1938.88] was willing -[1938.88 --> 1939.28] to eat -[1939.28 --> 1940.04] with embezzlers -[1940.04 --> 1941.00] and prostitutes. -[1942.42 --> 1942.68] Jesus -[1942.68 --> 1943.34] died on a -[1943.34 --> 1944.20] cross between -[1944.20 --> 1945.08] two criminals. -[1946.74 --> 1946.98] Jesus -[1946.98 --> 1947.48] did not -[1947.48 --> 1947.84] leave the -[1947.84 --> 1948.34] glory of -[1948.34 --> 1948.82] heaven and -[1948.82 --> 1949.16] give his -[1949.16 --> 1949.66] life on a -[1949.66 --> 1950.12] cross just -[1950.12 --> 1950.72] so that nice -[1950.72 --> 1951.20] people could -[1951.20 --> 1951.90] become a -[1951.90 --> 1952.22] little bit -[1952.22 --> 1952.52] nicer. -[1954.04 --> 1954.84] He came -[1954.84 --> 1955.48] to bring us -[1955.48 --> 1956.02] no matter -[1956.02 --> 1957.04] who we are -[1957.04 --> 1958.20] forgiveness -[1958.20 --> 1958.92] from sin -[1958.92 --> 1960.48] because none -[1960.48 --> 1961.04] of us are -[1961.04 --> 1962.16] righteous apart -[1962.16 --> 1963.00] from him. -[1963.98 --> 1964.56] He came -[1964.56 --> 1965.08] to bring us -[1965.08 --> 1965.46] no matter -[1965.46 --> 1966.18] who we are -[1966.18 --> 1967.44] or how -[1967.44 --> 1967.98] messy our -[1967.98 --> 1969.02] family situation, -[1969.46 --> 1969.98] how messed -[1969.98 --> 1970.28] up your -[1970.28 --> 1970.70] life, -[1971.72 --> 1972.34] the power -[1972.34 --> 1972.86] to start -[1972.86 --> 1973.28] anew -[1973.28 --> 1974.64] and make -[1974.64 --> 1975.38] something good -[1975.38 --> 1976.36] out of -[1976.36 --> 1977.00] something bad. -[1978.58 --> 1979.36] There is -[1979.36 --> 1979.98] nothing to -[1979.98 --> 1980.70] keep any -[1980.70 --> 1981.20] of us -[1981.20 --> 1982.14] from a -[1982.14 --> 1982.58] new life. -[1982.88 --> 1983.12] Nothing -[1983.12 --> 1983.86] to keep -[1983.86 --> 1984.50] any of -[1984.50 --> 1984.78] us -[1984.78 --> 1985.82] from Jesus. -[1986.68 --> 1987.00] Nothing -[1987.00 --> 1987.46] to keep -[1987.46 --> 1988.12] any of -[1988.12 --> 1988.44] us from -[1988.44 --> 1989.14] being used -[1989.14 --> 1989.76] by God -[1989.76 --> 1990.26] and being -[1990.26 --> 1990.66] a part -[1990.66 --> 1991.18] of his -[1991.18 --> 1991.54] bigger -[1991.54 --> 1991.96] purpose -[1991.96 --> 1992.34] for the -[1992.34 --> 1992.62] world. -[1995.08 --> 1996.46] accept -[1996.46 --> 1996.94] your own -[1996.94 --> 1997.54] unbelief -[1997.54 --> 1998.26] and -[1998.26 --> 1998.88] stubbornness. -[2001.04 --> 2002.08] So listen, -[2003.14 --> 2003.72] hear the -[2003.72 --> 2004.16] voice of -[2004.16 --> 2004.52] Jesus -[2004.52 --> 2005.80] speaking love -[2005.80 --> 2006.20] and hope -[2006.20 --> 2006.76] into your -[2006.76 --> 2007.14] life -[2007.14 --> 2008.10] today, -[2008.80 --> 2009.68] whoever you -[2009.68 --> 2009.96] are. -[2010.66 --> 2011.22] Even in -[2011.22 --> 2012.06] this strange -[2012.06 --> 2013.26] and shocking -[2013.26 --> 2013.78] story, -[2014.56 --> 2015.04] come to -[2015.04 --> 2015.36] him, -[2015.92 --> 2016.54] the lion -[2016.54 --> 2017.04] of Judah, -[2017.28 --> 2018.02] says Revelation -[2018.02 --> 2018.50] 5, -[2018.80 --> 2019.42] the lion -[2019.42 --> 2019.86] of Judah -[2019.86 --> 2020.38] who became -[2020.38 --> 2020.82] the lamb -[2020.82 --> 2021.36] of God -[2021.36 --> 2022.36] that takes -[2022.36 --> 2022.84] away the -[2022.84 --> 2023.16] sin of -[2023.16 --> 2023.58] the world -[2023.58 --> 2024.68] and who -[2024.68 --> 2025.52] once promised -[2025.52 --> 2026.80] and still -[2026.80 --> 2028.16] does right -[2028.16 --> 2028.58] here at -[2028.58 --> 2029.08] his table, -[2030.20 --> 2030.44] whoever -[2030.44 --> 2031.60] comes to -[2031.60 --> 2031.88] me, -[2032.88 --> 2033.94] I will -[2033.94 --> 2034.68] never -[2034.68 --> 2036.38] drive away. -[2036.68 --> 2037.20] Whoever -[2037.20 --> 2039.12] comes to -[2039.12 --> 2039.34] me, -[2040.34 --> 2041.26] I will -[2041.26 --> 2041.96] never drive -[2041.96 --> 2043.34] away in -[2043.34 --> 2043.60] the name -[2043.60 --> 2043.88] of the -[2043.88 --> 2044.32] Father and -[2044.32 --> 2044.70] the Son -[2044.70 --> 2045.82] and the -[2045.82 --> 2046.38] Holy Spirit. -[2047.10 --> 2047.60] Let's -[2047.60 --> 2047.84] pray. -[2049.60 --> 2050.42] Father in -[2050.42 --> 2050.68] heaven, -[2051.90 --> 2052.64] your grace -[2052.64 --> 2053.20] is too -[2053.20 --> 2055.72] big for -[2055.72 --> 2056.16] us to -[2056.16 --> 2056.44] fully -[2056.44 --> 2057.12] comprehend. -[2059.52 --> 2060.30] But help -[2060.30 --> 2060.68] us to -[2060.68 --> 2060.92] know, -[2061.16 --> 2061.20] Lord, -[2061.32 --> 2061.90] deep down -[2061.90 --> 2063.46] that your -[2063.46 --> 2064.50] grace is -[2064.50 --> 2065.16] big enough -[2065.16 --> 2065.70] to cover -[2065.70 --> 2067.12] any and -[2067.12 --> 2067.54] all of -[2067.54 --> 2068.00] our sin. -[2069.72 --> 2070.50] That your -[2070.50 --> 2071.12] grace has -[2071.12 --> 2071.58] been given -[2071.58 --> 2072.50] to us as -[2072.50 --> 2073.80] a gift -[2073.80 --> 2074.86] through -[2074.86 --> 2075.20] Jesus, -[2075.36 --> 2075.74] your Son. -[2077.04 --> 2077.70] As we -[2077.70 --> 2078.26] now come -[2078.26 --> 2079.24] in just a -[2079.24 --> 2079.76] few moments -[2079.76 --> 2080.22] to his -[2080.22 --> 2080.84] table again -[2080.84 --> 2081.42] this morning, -[2082.56 --> 2083.26] assure us, -[2083.48 --> 2083.90] Lord, in -[2083.90 --> 2084.42] the depth -[2084.42 --> 2084.78] of our -[2084.78 --> 2086.96] hearts that -[2086.96 --> 2087.46] we belong -[2087.46 --> 2087.96] to you -[2087.96 --> 2089.84] in spite of -[2089.84 --> 2090.22] everything, -[2091.58 --> 2092.62] not because -[2092.62 --> 2093.02] of anything -[2093.02 --> 2093.48] we have -[2093.48 --> 2094.22] done, but -[2094.22 --> 2094.86] because of -[2094.86 --> 2096.48] everything that -[2096.48 --> 2097.04] Jesus has -[2097.04 --> 2097.34] done. -[2098.10 --> 2098.78] In his -[2098.78 --> 2100.14] name we -[2100.14 --> 2100.42] pray. -[2101.20 --> 2101.52] Amen. -[2101.52 --> 2101.62] Amen. -[2101.62 --> 2101.66] Amen. -[2101.66 --> 2101.68] Amen. -[2101.68 --> 2101.70] Amen. -[2101.70 --> 2101.72] Amen. -[2101.72 --> 2101.74] Amen. -[2101.74 --> 2101.76] Amen. -[2101.76 --> 2101.78] Amen. -[2101.78 --> 2101.82] Amen. -[2101.82 --> 2103.70] Amen. -[2103.70 --> 2103.72] Amen. -[2103.72 --> 2105.72] Amen. -[2105.72 --> 2105.78] Amen. -[2105.78 --> 2105.80] Amen. -[2105.80 --> 2105.82] Amen. -[2105.82 --> 2105.86] Amen. -[2105.86 --> 2105.88] Amen. -[2105.88 --> 2109.74] Amen. diff --git "a/Joseph #3\342\200\224The Lord is With Us (Sermon)_summary.txt" "b/Joseph #3\342\200\224The Lord is With Us (Sermon)_summary.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index fede255cbbf40c2f8ec2b6143a5c363715849cb2..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Joseph #3\342\200\224The Lord is With Us (Sermon)_summary.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,77 +0,0 @@ -• Joseph is taken to Egypt and becomes a successful servant in Potiphar's household -• Joseph refuses his master's wife's advances and flees when she attempts to trap him -• As a result, Potiphar's wife falsely accuses Joseph of attempted rape and he is thrown into prison -• Despite being in prison, the Lord remains with Joseph and blesses him there as well -• The story raises questions about God's providence and how it relates to human suffering -• The presence of God in Joseph's life does not necessarily mean that evil will be prevented. -• The speaker discusses how praying for God's presence can be challenging when faced with difficulties -• Joseph's story in Genesis is used as an example to explore the temptation of power -• The speaker describes how power can be seductive and corrupting, especially in human hands -• God's powers are unique and should not be exercised by humans -• The Old Testament illustrates that even good leaders, like King David, are imperfect and prone to corruption -• Power's corrupting influence -• The importance of revealing one's true character and goals -• Politics and the misuse of power -• God's kingdom being bigger than church -• Using power to bless others, as demonstrated by Joseph's role in Potiphar's household -• Hearing God's promise to Abraham -• The speaker discusses the idea that success and prosperity come from God -• The importance of recognizing one's power and responsibility to use it for good -• The temptation of misuse or abuse of power, particularly in relationships where there is a power imbalance (such as employer-employee) -• Joseph's story as an example of resisting temptation and using one's position for the greater good -• The connection between power and sex, including the exploitation of slaves by their owners -• Sexual exploitation of authority figures by those under their control -• Difficulty in obtaining consent due to power imbalances -• Definition of sexual abuse and its implications for church leaders -• Story of Joseph and Potiphar's wife as an example of attempted seduction -• Importance of commitment to God and moral principles in resisting temptation -• Refusal of an unnamed person -• Attempted assault by Mrs. P on Joseph -• Joseph's escape and flight from the house -• Consequences for Joseph, including imprisonment in a prison as good as death -• The concept of Joseph being regarded as a joke and abnormal due to his love for his father -• Adultery and lust being accepted as forms of entertainment in modern society -• A psychologist's claim that Joseph was sexually abnormal due to his love for his father -• Difficulty understanding God's will regarding sexuality, including Joseph's actions -• Comparison between Christians being set apart in the world, similar to a person at a party who has taken an ugly turn -• Forgiveness and God's will regarding sexuality -• Sex is for marriage, and marriage is for life -• Question of right and wrong in a culture that no longer recognizes traditional boundaries -• Fear of sinning against one's covenant with God or being ridiculed by others -• Joseph's story as an example of obedience and providence -• The temptation to despair despite the Lord's presence -• The idea of providence in the health and wealth gospel promoted by many evangelical Christians -• Joseph's experiences with prison, wondering where God is and what happened to his dreams -• Temptation to despair and losing faith in God's justice -• Power, lust, and empires (Egypt and the world) often working out just fine for evil people -• The psalmist complaining about injustice and comparing it to the wicked -• Psalm 73 describing the wicked as carefree and increasing in wealth -• God's goodness is real but not guaranteed -• Faithfulness does not exempt from trouble or hardship -• The book of Job illustrates that suffering comes as a test of faith, with no promise of exemption -• Christians are not guaranteed to be spared from trouble or hardship -• The covenant in Genesis 39 shows that God works good out of adversity. -• Discussion of Joseph's experiences, including being sold as a slave, falsely convicted of attempted rape, and thrown into prison -• The concept of God's providence and having a plan for one's life -• The idea that seemingly negative events can be part of a larger divine plan -• An explanation that the brothers' actions against Joseph were also part of this plan -• The nature of God's relationship with humanity -• Free will and moral responsibility -• Sin, evil, and God's plan for humanity -• The concept of God's covenant with humanity -• The struggle to understand God's ways in the face of adversity -• The story of Joseph and its relevance to understanding God's character -• The narrator reflects on the story of Joseph and how God's providence is always at work, even when not fully understood. -• Despite unanswered questions about life's circumstances, there is comfort in knowing that God's plan is determined to bless all peoples. -• Providence is seen as a source of hope, especially in difficult times like Joseph experienced. -• The narrator emphasizes that understanding God's ways can be challenging, but ultimately trusting in His goodness and love provides assurance and peace. -• The idea that God abandoned Jesus on the cross -• Jesus' cry of "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" -• Jesus' resurrection and appearance to his disciples -• The concept of God's presence with us always, regardless of circumstances -• Invoking God's promise and provision in times of need -• Assurance of God's presence -• Importance of faith during troubled times -• Prayer and thanksgiving for God's guidance -• Acknowledgment of God's constant support and protection -• Expression of devotion to Jesus' name \ No newline at end of file diff --git "a/Joseph #3\342\200\224The Lord is With Us (Sermon)_transcript.txt" "b/Joseph #3\342\200\224The Lord is With Us (Sermon)_transcript.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 317ab2d6193699bae38b05b1a53ee90cfb0cf697..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Joseph #3\342\200\224The Lord is With Us (Sermon)_transcript.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1977 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 13.06] So today we're going to continue our series of messages on the story of Joseph in the latter part of the book of Genesis. -[15.56 --> 19.76] And today we are going to read together Genesis 39. -[23.04 --> 24.70] And this is the story. -[24.82 --> 27.74] Now Joseph had been taken down to Egypt. -[27.74 --> 39.42] And the great Potiphar, an Egyptian who was one of Pharaoh's officials, the captain of the guard, bought him from the Ishmaelites who had taken him there. -[40.80 --> 48.12] The Lord was with Joseph so that he prospered and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master. -[48.12 --> 58.52] When his master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord gave him success in everything he did, Joseph found favor in his eyes and became his attendant. -[59.32 --> 66.36] Potiphar put him in charge of his household and he entrusted to his care everything he owned. -[66.36 --> 75.30] From the time he put him in charge of his household and of all that he owned, the Lord blessed the household of the Egyptian because of Joseph. -[76.50 --> 81.84] The blessing of the Lord was on everything Potiphar had, both in the house and in the field. -[82.56 --> 85.62] So Potiphar left everything he had in Joseph's care. -[86.18 --> 92.68] With Joseph in charge, he did not concern himself with anything except the food he ate. -[92.68 --> 99.20] Now Joseph was well built and handsome. -[100.86 --> 105.42] And after a while, his master's wife took notice of Joseph and said, -[105.96 --> 107.58] Come to bed with me. -[108.64 --> 109.90] But he refused. -[111.16 --> 116.16] With me in charge, he told her, my master does not concern himself with anything in the house. -[116.64 --> 119.14] Everything he owns he has entrusted to my care. -[119.56 --> 121.90] No one is greater in this house than I am. -[121.90 --> 127.92] My master has withheld nothing from me except you because you are his wife. -[128.70 --> 133.00] How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God? -[134.04 --> 140.88] And though she spoke to Joseph day after day, he refused to go to bed with her or even be with her. -[142.18 --> 148.24] One day he went into the house to attend to his duties and none of the household servants was inside. -[148.24 --> 152.64] She caught him by his cloak and said, Come to bed with me. -[153.44 --> 157.04] But he left his cloak in her hand and ran out of the house. -[157.44 --> 163.34] When she saw that he had left his cloak in her hand and had run out of the house, she called her household servants. -[163.70 --> 164.78] Look, she said to them. -[165.34 --> 168.80] This Hebrew has been brought to us to make sport of us. -[168.80 --> 171.82] He came in here to sleep with me, but I screamed. -[172.16 --> 176.86] When he heard me scream for help, he left his cloak beside me and ran out of the house. -[178.20 --> 181.48] She kept his cloak beside her until his master came home. -[182.04 --> 183.52] Then she told him this story. -[184.38 --> 187.56] That Hebrew slave you brought us came to me to make sport of me. -[187.56 --> 192.84] But as soon as I screamed for help, he left his cloak beside me and ran out of the house. -[194.28 --> 203.20] When his master heard the story his wife told him, saying, This is how your slave treated me, he burned with anger. -[204.70 --> 210.36] Joseph's master took him and put him in prison, the place where the king's prisoners were confined. -[210.36 --> 216.30] But while Joseph was there in the prison, the Lord was with him. -[217.34 --> 221.96] He showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden. -[222.72 --> 232.02] So the warden put Joseph in charge of all those held in the prison, and he was made responsible for all that was done there. -[232.74 --> 240.14] The warden paid no attention to anything under Joseph's care because the Lord was with Joseph and gave him success. -[240.36 --> 243.10] In whatever he did. -[243.76 --> 245.76] This is the word of the Lord. -[247.62 --> 252.76] A couple of weeks ago, you may remember, it's sort of an unforgettable story, isn't it? -[253.66 --> 264.72] We read the story about Judah, Joseph's older brother, who casually slept with a woman he thought was a prostitute, but ended up being his daughter-in-law. -[267.02 --> 269.42] Today you have a story of Joseph. -[270.36 --> 277.96] Who steadfastly steers clear of what he knows to be a sinful sexual liaison. -[279.48 --> 293.54] And so it seems after these two wild stories, we're all set for the Bible to give us some important moral lessons about God's gift of sexuality and how to avoid sexual temptation. -[293.54 --> 302.86] Except, this is really only part of the story. -[303.38 --> 307.88] And not contrary to what a lot of people think, the main part. -[307.88 --> 315.04] There is a much bigger issue in Genesis 39 than sex. -[316.00 --> 317.00] And it's this. -[317.00 --> 336.18] How do you bridge the gap that sometimes, maybe often, exists between God's covenant promises and the painful things we often experience as his children in everyday life? -[336.18 --> 342.10] On the one hand, the Bible clearly and everywhere teaches the truth of divine providence. -[342.90 --> 352.02] On the other hand, the lives of God's people can be so painful, we may sometimes be tempted to give up on God. -[352.02 --> 358.00] Leaving us with hard questions for which there are no easy answers. -[358.00 --> 367.54] And that's where Genesis 39, in the largest story of God's people, is a case in point. -[367.54 --> 373.58] I don't know if you noticed, but it is a story told between brackets. -[375.40 --> 380.42] And the brackets are these words found in verse 2. -[381.54 --> 388.28] And again, at the end of the chapter, twice no less, as though we needed some convincing, in verses 21 and 23. -[388.66 --> 393.88] These words, the Lord was with Joseph. -[393.88 --> 397.74] The Lord was with Joseph. -[398.84 --> 407.12] Because of this divine presence in Joseph's life, as you would expect, all kinds of good things do happen to him. -[408.42 --> 411.54] But this same story forces us to wonder, -[412.74 --> 417.00] if God is the source of the good in Joseph's life, -[417.00 --> 427.58] why doesn't or why can't that same God prevent the evil thing that stands at this story's center? -[428.78 --> 433.14] How can it be true that the Lord is so intimately with Joseph? -[434.14 --> 440.16] And that Joseph ends up being falsely accused and thrown into prison? -[440.16 --> 446.24] It's one of the greatest difficulties, I think, of the Christian life. -[447.44 --> 451.74] We celebrate the truth that God is with us, here at this table again this morning. -[452.74 --> 455.60] It is an ancient tradition, and it was always mine, -[455.92 --> 459.28] in the churches I served, to begin almost every worship service, -[459.28 --> 461.62] with the blessing, the Lord be with you, -[461.84 --> 465.28] and then the congregation would respond, and also with you. -[466.44 --> 468.52] It is what we pray for our children, -[468.94 --> 470.84] when they leave home on a date, -[472.62 --> 473.52] a weekend trip, -[474.18 --> 474.88] to college, -[476.16 --> 477.20] overseas missions. -[478.20 --> 479.30] But what happens -[479.30 --> 482.20] when we pray for God to be with our kids, -[482.64 --> 483.98] and a tragedy occurs? -[483.98 --> 488.26] What happens when we pray for God to be with us at work, -[488.38 --> 489.32] and we get laid off? -[490.44 --> 491.28] What happens -[491.28 --> 494.80] when we pray for God to bless our marriage, -[495.20 --> 496.94] and in spite of all of our efforts, -[497.10 --> 498.12] we end up divorced? -[499.66 --> 502.00] What happens when we pray for God to be with us, -[502.02 --> 503.70] when undergoing treatment for cancer, -[503.96 --> 506.10] and the tumor doesn't stop growing? -[508.18 --> 508.96] What then? -[510.10 --> 510.50] Joseph? -[510.50 --> 514.06] What about when you end up in prison, -[514.16 --> 515.40] even though you were obedient, -[515.80 --> 517.12] and you kept your integrity, -[517.58 --> 520.64] even though you faced three of the strongest temptations, -[520.90 --> 521.88] known to humans, -[522.32 --> 522.82] no less, -[523.76 --> 525.94] but remain faithful to God, -[526.28 --> 527.24] in each of them? -[528.12 --> 528.68] What then? -[531.88 --> 536.00] Yes, Joseph faced three significant temptations, -[536.16 --> 536.84] in the story. -[536.84 --> 539.80] And while the third of these -[539.80 --> 542.08] is the real issue of Genesis 39, -[543.02 --> 544.94] and the second is the one -[544.94 --> 545.60] that everyone, -[545.80 --> 546.78] for obvious reasons, -[546.88 --> 547.32] remembers, -[548.76 --> 552.20] the first temptation Joseph faced -[552.20 --> 555.48] was the temptation of power. -[556.88 --> 559.50] In a few short but sweeping sentences, -[559.72 --> 562.46] Genesis 39 describes how Joseph ends up -[562.46 --> 565.10] in one of Egypt's most powerful households, -[565.10 --> 567.32] the home of Potiphar, -[567.76 --> 569.64] captain of Pharaoh's guard, -[570.36 --> 572.76] and is soon promoted from captive slave -[572.76 --> 574.84] to chief administrator -[574.84 --> 577.76] over Potiphar's entire household. -[579.84 --> 580.48] Power -[580.48 --> 584.26] is perhaps the most seductive -[584.26 --> 586.20] of all temptations. -[587.58 --> 589.74] Not that it is wrong in itself, -[590.04 --> 591.22] it is a gift of God -[591.22 --> 592.70] meant to be used to serve -[592.70 --> 594.02] and to bless others. -[595.10 --> 596.62] It is what often comes -[596.62 --> 598.36] along with power -[598.36 --> 599.94] that is most seductive -[599.94 --> 601.42] to kings and queens, -[601.86 --> 603.24] presidents and prime ministers, -[603.70 --> 605.50] everybody bowing and scraping, -[605.98 --> 606.82] the limousines, -[606.96 --> 608.06] the luxury suites, -[608.38 --> 609.06] the servants, -[609.22 --> 610.80] the aides that you beck and call, -[611.08 --> 612.54] the ability to make war -[612.54 --> 613.38] or peace, -[613.68 --> 615.40] to hold the welfare of a nation -[615.40 --> 616.20] in your hands, -[616.50 --> 617.86] to have in some way -[617.86 --> 619.58] the power of death -[619.58 --> 620.46] and life -[620.46 --> 621.72] over others. -[621.72 --> 624.90] those -[624.90 --> 626.78] are God's powers -[626.78 --> 627.54] alone, -[627.70 --> 628.26] of course. -[629.58 --> 630.88] And in some way -[630.88 --> 632.24] they always suffer -[632.24 --> 634.22] when put into human hands, -[634.76 --> 636.60] which is why God -[636.60 --> 637.70] never wanted a king -[637.70 --> 638.50] for Israel. -[639.98 --> 641.64] God knew long before -[641.64 --> 643.14] Lord Acton of Britain -[643.14 --> 644.28] coined the phrase -[644.28 --> 646.36] that power corrupts -[646.36 --> 647.62] and absolute power -[647.62 --> 648.98] corrupts absolutely. -[651.88 --> 652.90] God knew -[652.90 --> 654.34] that only one king -[654.34 --> 656.88] never corrupts, -[657.88 --> 659.08] God himself. -[660.42 --> 661.20] And that even -[661.20 --> 662.74] the best king Israel -[662.74 --> 663.78] would ever get -[663.78 --> 665.46] as far as earthly kings go, -[666.00 --> 666.34] David, -[666.86 --> 668.22] described twice in the Bible -[668.22 --> 670.08] as a man after God's own heart, -[670.08 --> 672.88] would prove to be nothing -[672.88 --> 674.34] if not human, -[675.28 --> 676.18] as in the case -[676.18 --> 677.50] of his sexual assault -[677.50 --> 678.36] of Bathsheba -[678.36 --> 680.16] and the murder -[680.16 --> 681.34] of her husband, -[681.76 --> 683.10] Uriah the Hittite. -[685.30 --> 686.38] But power -[686.38 --> 687.58] not only corrupts, -[687.82 --> 688.26] power -[688.26 --> 689.48] also -[689.48 --> 690.62] reveals. -[692.32 --> 693.28] Sooner or later, -[693.48 --> 694.68] people with power -[694.68 --> 696.38] reveal their true -[696.38 --> 697.38] character -[697.38 --> 697.50] character -[697.50 --> 698.96] and their ultimate -[698.96 --> 699.52] goals -[699.52 --> 700.84] and values. -[702.16 --> 703.22] And never mind -[703.22 --> 704.36] everything we could say -[704.36 --> 705.60] here about politics -[705.60 --> 706.50] today, -[706.74 --> 707.42] either here -[707.42 --> 708.62] or especially -[708.62 --> 709.80] perhaps to the south -[709.80 --> 710.74] of us these days. -[711.70 --> 712.98] The truth is -[712.98 --> 714.50] we all -[714.50 --> 715.10] have -[715.10 --> 715.90] our own -[715.90 --> 716.88] little kingdoms -[716.88 --> 718.36] where our word -[718.36 --> 719.08] is final. -[719.64 --> 720.48] From the office -[720.48 --> 721.34] to the living room, -[721.84 --> 722.48] the classroom -[722.48 --> 723.26] to the company, -[723.90 --> 724.58] to your money, -[724.86 --> 725.42] right down -[725.42 --> 726.14] to the TV -[726.14 --> 727.04] remote control -[727.04 --> 727.86] in our hands -[727.86 --> 729.74] and where the way -[729.74 --> 730.96] we use our power -[730.96 --> 732.22] reveals -[732.22 --> 734.16] what is in our souls. -[736.34 --> 737.32] We read that -[737.32 --> 738.68] the Lord was with Joseph -[738.68 --> 740.84] and he prospered. -[741.86 --> 742.58] Joseph, that is, -[742.64 --> 743.14] became -[743.14 --> 744.78] a powerful man -[744.78 --> 747.24] who used the gift -[747.24 --> 747.86] wisely -[747.86 --> 748.60] and well -[748.60 --> 750.48] and was used -[750.48 --> 751.02] by God -[751.02 --> 752.34] to bless Potiphar, -[752.64 --> 753.22] the Egyptian, -[753.84 --> 755.06] and his whole household. -[755.06 --> 757.34] not as a missionary -[757.34 --> 758.78] or some other form -[758.78 --> 759.54] of what we sometimes -[759.54 --> 760.30] refer to as -[760.30 --> 761.16] full-time Christian -[761.16 --> 762.08] service either, -[763.08 --> 764.32] as though those -[764.32 --> 765.30] are the only forms -[765.30 --> 766.28] of full-time Christian -[766.28 --> 766.74] service, -[767.32 --> 768.88] but as a skilled -[768.88 --> 769.88] administrator -[769.88 --> 771.28] of Potiphar's -[771.28 --> 772.18] extensive -[772.18 --> 773.90] business interests. -[775.56 --> 776.14] God's kingdom -[776.14 --> 776.72] after all -[776.72 --> 777.26] is much bigger -[777.26 --> 777.84] than church. -[777.84 --> 780.28] God's desire -[780.28 --> 781.34] is that we -[781.34 --> 782.30] bless others -[782.30 --> 783.36] through the -[783.36 --> 784.46] successful use -[784.46 --> 785.30] of whatever -[785.30 --> 787.04] power you and I -[787.04 --> 788.28] have in our hands -[788.28 --> 790.34] in whatever we do. -[791.34 --> 792.56] You cannot help -[792.56 --> 793.78] but hear the echo -[793.78 --> 794.82] of God's promise -[794.82 --> 795.46] to Abraham. -[796.46 --> 797.50] I will bless you -[797.50 --> 799.32] and all peoples -[799.32 --> 799.88] on earth -[799.88 --> 801.46] will be blessed -[801.46 --> 802.68] through you. -[802.68 --> 805.44] You cannot help -[805.44 --> 806.10] but hear that -[806.10 --> 807.08] promise in this -[807.08 --> 807.64] description -[807.64 --> 809.20] of Joseph's role -[809.20 --> 810.06] in Potiphar's -[810.06 --> 810.38] house. -[811.42 --> 811.58] Listen, -[811.78 --> 812.58] from the time -[812.58 --> 813.76] Potiphar put -[813.76 --> 814.68] Joseph in charge -[814.68 --> 815.46] of his household -[815.46 --> 816.22] and of all -[816.22 --> 816.84] that he owned, -[817.18 --> 817.52] the Lord -[817.52 --> 818.48] blessed the -[818.48 --> 819.04] household -[819.04 --> 820.30] of the Egyptian -[820.30 --> 822.26] because of -[822.26 --> 822.66] Joseph. -[822.66 --> 822.78] Joseph, -[823.68 --> 825.72] it is a reminder -[825.72 --> 826.86] that all of us -[826.86 --> 828.96] have different -[828.96 --> 830.00] vocations -[830.00 --> 832.22] but we have -[832.22 --> 833.44] the same calling -[833.44 --> 834.66] in every one -[834.66 --> 835.00] of them -[835.00 --> 837.14] to use whatever -[837.14 --> 838.66] power and success -[838.66 --> 840.36] God gives you -[840.36 --> 842.32] to bless others -[842.32 --> 843.68] in your community -[843.68 --> 845.20] and to bless -[845.20 --> 845.74] the world. -[847.08 --> 848.20] Your professional -[848.20 --> 848.96] success -[848.96 --> 850.34] in medicine -[850.34 --> 851.30] or business -[851.30 --> 852.30] or administration -[852.30 --> 853.30] or education -[853.30 --> 854.46] or politics -[854.46 --> 855.12] or law -[855.12 --> 856.00] or agriculture -[856.00 --> 857.22] or any other -[857.22 --> 857.88] field you might -[857.88 --> 858.18] name. -[859.34 --> 860.02] The money -[860.02 --> 860.92] and the prosperity -[860.92 --> 861.96] you may have -[861.96 --> 863.14] as a result -[863.14 --> 864.58] is all a gift -[864.58 --> 865.32] of God. -[866.46 --> 867.62] God gave it -[867.62 --> 868.16] to you -[868.16 --> 870.04] as God gave -[870.04 --> 870.82] it to Joseph -[870.82 --> 872.20] and with the -[872.20 --> 872.84] same purpose -[872.84 --> 874.36] to extend -[874.36 --> 875.38] God's blessing -[875.38 --> 877.04] to his world -[877.04 --> 878.38] through you. -[879.70 --> 880.76] In a world -[880.76 --> 881.10] where the -[881.10 --> 881.66] temptation -[881.66 --> 882.70] or the misuse -[882.70 --> 883.30] and abuse -[883.30 --> 883.82] of power -[883.82 --> 884.90] is so seductive -[884.90 --> 885.52] and strong -[885.52 --> 887.06] we need to -[887.06 --> 887.86] look at ourselves -[887.86 --> 888.62] in the mirror -[888.62 --> 889.44] every morning -[889.44 --> 890.14] and say to -[890.14 --> 890.56] ourselves -[890.56 --> 891.82] God has -[891.82 --> 892.42] blessed me -[892.42 --> 893.56] with this -[893.56 --> 894.62] particular power -[894.62 --> 895.32] with this -[895.32 --> 896.46] particular success -[896.46 --> 897.50] God has -[897.50 --> 898.22] put me where -[898.22 --> 898.70] I am -[898.70 --> 899.96] and then ask -[899.96 --> 902.12] show me how -[902.12 --> 902.44] Lord -[902.44 --> 904.08] and use me -[904.08 --> 904.72] to bless -[904.72 --> 905.86] others around -[905.86 --> 906.36] me -[906.36 --> 907.38] today. -[907.38 --> 909.76] do that -[909.76 --> 910.36] as Joseph -[910.36 --> 910.72] did -[910.72 --> 911.70] and you -[911.70 --> 912.14] have a -[912.14 --> 912.62] powerful -[912.62 --> 913.76] driving force -[913.76 --> 914.86] for doing -[914.86 --> 915.46] good in -[915.46 --> 916.04] your life -[916.04 --> 916.96] and a -[916.96 --> 917.52] powerful -[917.52 --> 918.30] antidote -[918.30 --> 918.98] to the -[918.98 --> 919.72] corruptions -[919.72 --> 921.06] and temptations -[921.06 --> 921.90] of power. -[921.90 --> 925.56] all right -[925.56 --> 925.82] now -[925.82 --> 927.02] that brings us -[927.02 --> 927.32] to the -[927.32 --> 927.80] temptation -[927.80 --> 928.42] that appears -[928.42 --> 928.92] to be at -[928.92 --> 929.58] the center -[929.58 --> 929.96] of this -[929.96 --> 930.30] story -[930.30 --> 931.96] the temptation -[931.96 --> 932.74] for lack -[932.74 --> 933.20] of a better -[933.20 --> 933.96] way of putting -[933.96 --> 934.20] it -[934.20 --> 935.36] of illicit -[935.36 --> 935.86] sex -[935.86 --> 937.46] although -[937.46 --> 938.74] sexual matters -[938.74 --> 939.66] are also -[939.66 --> 941.04] so often -[941.04 --> 942.44] about power -[942.44 --> 944.90] for as -[944.90 --> 945.56] successful -[945.56 --> 946.58] and trusted -[946.58 --> 947.42] and administrator -[947.42 --> 948.40] as Joseph -[948.40 --> 949.18] had become -[949.18 --> 950.52] he was -[950.52 --> 950.92] still a -[950.92 --> 951.22] slave -[951.22 --> 952.98] and in -[952.98 --> 953.70] slave cultures -[953.70 --> 954.26] both then -[954.26 --> 954.92] and now -[954.92 --> 956.84] sex is an -[956.84 --> 957.82] often hidden -[957.82 --> 958.68] but important -[958.68 --> 959.88] part of the -[959.88 --> 960.54] relationship -[960.54 --> 961.86] slave owners -[961.86 --> 963.14] often exercise -[963.14 --> 964.18] their ownership -[964.18 --> 965.82] through sexual -[965.82 --> 966.36] advances -[966.36 --> 967.64] harassment -[967.64 --> 968.88] and rape -[968.88 --> 971.56] even today -[971.56 --> 972.10] so many -[972.10 --> 972.62] power -[972.62 --> 973.30] relationships -[973.30 --> 975.14] can be -[975.14 --> 975.66] sexually -[975.66 --> 976.40] charged -[976.40 --> 978.22] employers -[978.22 --> 979.74] supervisors -[979.74 --> 981.00] teachers -[981.00 --> 982.24] priests -[982.24 --> 983.44] pastors -[983.44 --> 984.60] parents -[984.60 --> 985.82] presidents -[985.82 --> 986.84] can -[986.84 --> 987.72] and sometimes -[987.72 --> 988.08] do -[988.08 --> 988.98] exploit -[988.98 --> 989.70] their power -[989.70 --> 990.52] over others -[990.52 --> 992.18] in sexual -[992.18 --> 992.66] ways -[992.66 --> 995.00] in such -[995.00 --> 995.62] relationships -[995.62 --> 996.92] there's really -[996.92 --> 997.74] no such thing -[997.74 --> 998.68] as consent -[998.68 --> 999.34] of course -[999.34 --> 1000.86] but only -[1000.86 --> 1001.68] constraint -[1001.68 --> 1003.02] or compulsion -[1003.02 --> 1004.66] however subtle -[1004.66 --> 1005.66] that may be -[1005.66 --> 1007.62] and just -[1007.62 --> 1008.54] so you -[1008.54 --> 1008.88] know -[1008.88 --> 1009.80] by law -[1009.80 --> 1010.90] and within -[1010.90 --> 1011.96] our denomination -[1011.96 --> 1012.88] when it comes -[1012.88 --> 1013.46] to church -[1013.46 --> 1014.08] leaders -[1014.08 --> 1015.62] any person -[1015.62 --> 1016.66] in authority -[1016.66 --> 1017.86] who engages -[1017.86 --> 1018.86] in a sexual -[1018.86 --> 1019.54] relationship -[1019.54 --> 1020.58] with someone -[1020.58 --> 1021.52] under his -[1021.52 --> 1022.02] or her -[1022.02 --> 1022.70] authority -[1022.70 --> 1023.90] even if the -[1023.90 --> 1024.74] victim is not -[1024.74 --> 1025.30] a minor -[1025.30 --> 1026.78] is guilty -[1026.78 --> 1028.42] of sexual -[1028.42 --> 1029.36] abuse -[1029.36 --> 1030.94] and rightly -[1030.94 --> 1031.34] so -[1031.34 --> 1034.38] Potiphar's -[1034.38 --> 1034.76] wife -[1034.76 --> 1036.10] is a -[1036.10 --> 1036.78] sex abuser -[1036.78 --> 1038.82] to set up -[1038.82 --> 1039.32] the scene -[1039.32 --> 1040.02] we are told -[1040.02 --> 1040.82] that on top -[1040.82 --> 1041.34] of everything -[1041.34 --> 1041.68] else -[1041.68 --> 1042.70] Joseph was -[1042.70 --> 1043.68] well built -[1043.68 --> 1045.36] and handsome -[1045.36 --> 1047.58] and wherever -[1047.58 --> 1048.26] this woman -[1048.26 --> 1049.00] with far -[1049.00 --> 1049.44] too much -[1049.44 --> 1049.92] time -[1049.92 --> 1050.94] and too -[1050.94 --> 1051.74] little husband -[1051.74 --> 1052.64] on her hands -[1052.64 --> 1053.58] turns in her -[1053.58 --> 1054.14] household -[1054.14 --> 1055.94] Joseph is -[1055.94 --> 1056.26] there -[1056.26 --> 1057.58] intelligent -[1057.58 --> 1059.46] good looking -[1059.46 --> 1061.22] well built -[1061.22 --> 1062.08] Joseph -[1062.08 --> 1062.86] apparently -[1062.86 --> 1064.14] was hot -[1064.14 --> 1066.98] and he -[1066.98 --> 1067.76] belongs to her -[1067.76 --> 1068.38] after all -[1068.38 --> 1070.00] he's a slave -[1070.00 --> 1071.38] she owns him -[1071.38 --> 1073.88] so one day -[1073.88 --> 1074.46] and obviously -[1074.46 --> 1074.92] not one -[1074.92 --> 1075.54] for a lot -[1075.54 --> 1076.40] of preliminaries -[1076.40 --> 1077.64] she confronts -[1077.64 --> 1077.94] Joseph -[1077.94 --> 1078.64] and according -[1078.64 --> 1079.40] to the original -[1079.40 --> 1079.78] Hebrew -[1079.78 --> 1080.52] demands -[1080.52 --> 1081.68] sex -[1081.68 --> 1082.54] now -[1082.54 --> 1084.54] that's -[1084.54 --> 1085.48] the sanitized -[1085.48 --> 1085.86] version -[1085.86 --> 1086.84] for churches -[1086.84 --> 1090.00] but Joseph -[1090.00 --> 1090.60] has a good -[1090.60 --> 1090.88] head -[1090.88 --> 1091.32] on his -[1091.32 --> 1091.64] broad -[1091.64 --> 1092.04] shoulders -[1092.04 --> 1092.42] and a -[1092.42 --> 1092.78] commitment -[1092.78 --> 1093.30] to God -[1093.30 --> 1093.62] in his -[1093.62 --> 1093.92] heart -[1093.92 --> 1094.26] and he -[1094.26 --> 1094.74] refuses -[1094.74 --> 1096.60] he gives -[1096.60 --> 1096.94] her a -[1096.94 --> 1097.38] reasoned -[1097.38 --> 1097.86] defense -[1097.86 --> 1099.90] he explains -[1099.90 --> 1100.50] the trust -[1100.50 --> 1101.14] Potiphar -[1101.14 --> 1101.72] has placed -[1101.72 --> 1102.16] in him -[1102.16 --> 1103.70] the betrayal -[1103.70 --> 1104.34] this liaison -[1104.34 --> 1105.02] would be -[1105.02 --> 1106.72] and maybe -[1106.72 --> 1107.24] she could -[1107.24 --> 1107.96] understand -[1107.96 --> 1108.64] that -[1108.64 --> 1109.40] but that -[1109.40 --> 1109.72] is not -[1109.72 --> 1110.12] the heart -[1110.12 --> 1110.40] of his -[1110.40 --> 1110.90] refusal -[1110.90 --> 1111.84] the heart -[1111.84 --> 1112.14] of his -[1112.14 --> 1112.62] refusal -[1112.62 --> 1113.38] is this -[1113.38 --> 1115.10] how then -[1115.10 --> 1115.64] could I -[1115.64 --> 1116.16] do such -[1116.16 --> 1116.72] a wicked -[1116.72 --> 1117.24] thing -[1117.24 --> 1118.90] and sin -[1118.90 --> 1120.20] against -[1120.20 --> 1121.06] God -[1121.06 --> 1123.78] but still -[1123.78 --> 1124.34] she's after -[1124.34 --> 1124.54] him -[1124.54 --> 1125.02] day after -[1125.02 --> 1125.30] day -[1125.30 --> 1125.80] we read -[1125.80 --> 1126.16] and day -[1126.16 --> 1126.66] after day -[1126.66 --> 1127.34] he refuses -[1127.34 --> 1127.98] making sure -[1127.98 --> 1128.52] he was never -[1128.52 --> 1129.28] again alone -[1129.28 --> 1129.66] with her -[1129.66 --> 1130.64] in the -[1130.64 --> 1130.98] house -[1130.98 --> 1131.94] until one -[1131.94 --> 1132.28] day he -[1132.28 --> 1132.94] came home -[1132.94 --> 1133.42] and found -[1133.42 --> 1133.84] the house -[1133.84 --> 1134.96] oddly quiet -[1134.96 --> 1136.02] with no one -[1136.02 --> 1136.72] there except -[1136.72 --> 1137.48] Mrs. P -[1137.48 --> 1138.50] who nearly -[1138.50 --> 1139.24] naked this -[1139.24 --> 1139.58] time -[1139.58 --> 1140.50] grabs him -[1140.50 --> 1140.88] by his -[1140.88 --> 1141.16] cloak -[1141.16 --> 1141.88] demands -[1141.88 --> 1142.32] sex -[1142.32 --> 1142.88] then -[1142.88 --> 1143.60] and there -[1143.60 --> 1144.20] and this -[1144.20 --> 1144.52] time -[1144.52 --> 1145.12] there are -[1145.12 --> 1145.76] no speeches -[1145.76 --> 1147.64] Joseph -[1147.64 --> 1148.56] knew -[1148.56 --> 1149.92] just knew -[1149.92 --> 1150.90] there was -[1150.90 --> 1151.80] no reasoning -[1151.80 --> 1152.72] out of -[1152.72 --> 1153.64] this situation -[1153.64 --> 1155.10] and so -[1155.10 --> 1155.52] Joseph -[1155.52 --> 1156.10] flees the -[1156.10 --> 1156.46] house -[1156.46 --> 1158.02] so fast -[1158.02 --> 1159.26] that once -[1159.26 --> 1159.60] again -[1159.60 --> 1160.58] he is left -[1160.58 --> 1161.22] without -[1161.22 --> 1162.10] his clothes -[1162.10 --> 1164.36] first it -[1164.36 --> 1164.70] was his -[1164.70 --> 1164.98] brother -[1164.98 --> 1165.94] stripping him -[1165.94 --> 1166.54] of his -[1166.54 --> 1166.92] coat of -[1166.92 --> 1167.54] many colors -[1167.54 --> 1168.50] dipping it -[1168.50 --> 1169.00] in goat's -[1169.00 --> 1169.22] blood -[1169.22 --> 1170.12] to fake -[1170.12 --> 1170.62] his death -[1170.62 --> 1172.04] now it -[1172.04 --> 1172.38] is the -[1172.38 --> 1172.80] angry -[1172.80 --> 1173.76] and humiliated -[1173.76 --> 1174.24] wife -[1174.24 --> 1175.76] of Potiphar -[1175.76 --> 1177.26] who has -[1177.26 --> 1177.88] stripped him -[1177.88 --> 1179.08] while she -[1179.08 --> 1179.54] cries -[1179.54 --> 1180.18] rape -[1180.18 --> 1181.68] with pretty -[1181.68 --> 1182.06] much -[1182.06 --> 1183.08] the same -[1183.08 --> 1183.54] result -[1183.54 --> 1184.84] Joseph -[1184.84 --> 1185.68] ends up -[1185.68 --> 1186.38] in prison -[1186.38 --> 1187.76] as good -[1187.76 --> 1188.18] as dead -[1188.18 --> 1190.98] we are -[1190.98 --> 1191.00] we are -[1191.00 --> 1191.54] not told -[1191.54 --> 1192.88] if Potiphar -[1192.88 --> 1193.38] really -[1193.38 --> 1194.18] believes -[1194.18 --> 1194.74] her story -[1194.74 --> 1196.52] interestingly -[1196.52 --> 1197.12] it says -[1197.12 --> 1197.44] that he -[1197.44 --> 1197.80] burned -[1197.80 --> 1197.98] with -[1197.98 --> 1198.34] anger -[1198.34 --> 1200.54] it does -[1200.54 --> 1201.20] not say -[1201.20 --> 1202.32] who he's -[1202.32 --> 1202.62] angry -[1202.62 --> 1203.02] with -[1203.02 --> 1204.92] nor does -[1204.92 --> 1205.36] he punish -[1205.36 --> 1205.74] Joseph -[1205.74 --> 1206.28] as you -[1206.28 --> 1206.64] would have -[1206.64 --> 1207.12] expected -[1207.12 --> 1208.66] with death -[1208.66 --> 1210.48] whatever -[1210.48 --> 1211.10] he thinks -[1211.10 --> 1211.68] really -[1211.68 --> 1212.16] happened -[1212.16 --> 1212.78] the end -[1212.78 --> 1213.20] result -[1213.20 --> 1214.24] for -[1214.24 --> 1214.60] Joseph -[1214.60 --> 1215.58] is the -[1215.58 --> 1215.90] same -[1215.90 --> 1217.56] prison -[1217.56 --> 1220.56] to the -[1220.56 --> 1220.80] world -[1220.80 --> 1221.28] of course -[1221.28 --> 1222.22] this whole -[1222.22 --> 1222.62] thing -[1222.62 --> 1223.62] is a -[1223.62 --> 1223.88] joke -[1223.88 --> 1225.92] in our -[1225.92 --> 1226.32] time -[1226.32 --> 1226.68] in which -[1226.68 --> 1227.26] adultery -[1227.26 --> 1227.52] is -[1227.52 --> 1228.14] entertainment -[1228.14 --> 1229.02] and lust -[1229.02 --> 1229.78] is constantly -[1229.78 --> 1230.84] being advertised -[1230.84 --> 1231.68] sex sells -[1231.68 --> 1232.08] everybody -[1232.08 --> 1232.66] knows -[1232.66 --> 1233.56] Joseph -[1233.56 --> 1234.28] isn't only -[1234.28 --> 1235.06] regarded as -[1235.06 --> 1235.68] a joke -[1235.68 --> 1237.08] but as -[1237.08 --> 1237.70] abnormal -[1237.70 --> 1239.34] one -[1239.34 --> 1239.84] psychologist -[1239.84 --> 1240.58] claims that -[1240.58 --> 1240.88] Joseph -[1240.88 --> 1241.58] was sexually -[1241.58 --> 1242.06] abnormal -[1242.06 --> 1242.78] due to -[1242.78 --> 1242.94] his -[1242.94 --> 1243.32] intimate -[1243.32 --> 1243.72] love -[1243.72 --> 1244.28] for his -[1244.28 --> 1244.70] father -[1244.70 --> 1248.26] but then -[1248.26 --> 1248.72] how can -[1248.72 --> 1249.38] you expect -[1249.38 --> 1250.98] the people -[1250.98 --> 1251.54] of this -[1251.54 --> 1251.86] world -[1251.86 --> 1253.02] to understand -[1253.02 --> 1258.16] to understand -[1258.16 --> 1258.78] Joseph -[1258.78 --> 1260.16] if they -[1260.16 --> 1260.58] do not -[1260.58 --> 1260.98] know -[1260.98 --> 1261.92] Joseph's -[1261.92 --> 1262.24] God -[1262.24 --> 1263.94] how -[1263.94 --> 1264.24] then -[1264.24 --> 1264.66] could I -[1264.66 --> 1265.12] do such -[1265.12 --> 1265.60] a wicked -[1265.60 --> 1266.08] thing -[1266.08 --> 1266.86] and sin -[1266.86 --> 1267.54] against -[1267.54 --> 1268.54] God -[1268.54 --> 1270.30] Joseph -[1270.30 --> 1270.92] is willing -[1270.92 --> 1271.48] to lose -[1271.48 --> 1272.02] both his -[1272.02 --> 1272.48] cloak -[1272.48 --> 1274.34] and his -[1274.34 --> 1274.94] dignity -[1274.94 --> 1276.52] as long -[1276.52 --> 1276.96] as he -[1276.96 --> 1277.46] can keep -[1277.46 --> 1278.06] faith -[1278.06 --> 1279.32] with God -[1279.32 --> 1282.08] and what -[1282.08 --> 1282.60] about us -[1282.60 --> 1284.22] God -[1284.22 --> 1284.88] calls us -[1284.88 --> 1285.36] to out -[1285.36 --> 1285.60] of the -[1285.60 --> 1286.00] land of -[1286.00 --> 1286.30] Egypt -[1286.30 --> 1286.66] out of -[1286.66 --> 1287.02] the house -[1287.02 --> 1287.78] of Potiphar's -[1287.78 --> 1288.10] wife -[1288.10 --> 1288.70] out of -[1288.70 --> 1289.14] the world -[1289.14 --> 1289.84] covenant -[1289.84 --> 1290.28] people -[1290.28 --> 1290.92] from Abraham -[1290.92 --> 1291.56] to Joseph -[1291.56 --> 1291.98] to the -[1291.98 --> 1292.38] disciples -[1292.38 --> 1292.94] of Jesus -[1292.94 --> 1293.58] then and -[1293.58 --> 1293.98] now -[1293.98 --> 1295.18] are holy -[1295.18 --> 1295.98] set -[1295.98 --> 1296.60] apart -[1296.60 --> 1297.24] people -[1297.24 --> 1298.98] in so -[1298.98 --> 1299.58] many ways -[1299.58 --> 1300.04] a Christian -[1300.04 --> 1300.46] in the -[1300.46 --> 1300.76] world -[1300.76 --> 1301.38] is like -[1301.38 --> 1301.84] a Christian -[1301.84 --> 1302.20] at a -[1302.20 --> 1302.48] party -[1302.48 --> 1302.86] which has -[1302.86 --> 1303.36] taken a -[1303.36 --> 1303.94] very ugly -[1303.94 --> 1304.36] turn -[1304.36 --> 1305.08] there is a -[1305.08 --> 1305.44] time -[1305.44 --> 1306.10] when you -[1306.10 --> 1306.72] may just -[1306.72 --> 1307.20] feel like -[1307.20 --> 1307.48] you just -[1307.48 --> 1307.80] got to -[1307.80 --> 1308.26] get up -[1308.26 --> 1308.76] and get -[1308.76 --> 1309.06] out -[1309.06 --> 1310.46] you don't -[1310.46 --> 1310.84] belong -[1310.84 --> 1311.20] there -[1311.20 --> 1314.20] and when -[1314.20 --> 1314.72] it comes -[1314.72 --> 1315.44] to God's -[1315.44 --> 1316.02] will for -[1316.02 --> 1316.66] sexuality -[1316.66 --> 1317.30] and yes -[1317.30 --> 1317.82] I know -[1317.82 --> 1318.36] we mess -[1318.36 --> 1318.64] up -[1318.64 --> 1319.60] and yes -[1319.60 --> 1320.12] there is -[1320.12 --> 1320.56] forgiveness -[1320.56 --> 1321.14] okay -[1321.14 --> 1322.66] but -[1322.66 --> 1324.26] God's -[1324.26 --> 1324.66] will -[1324.66 --> 1325.52] for -[1325.52 --> 1326.12] sexuality -[1326.12 --> 1326.74] is about -[1326.74 --> 1327.48] as simple -[1327.48 --> 1327.78] and -[1327.78 --> 1328.26] straightforward -[1328.26 --> 1329.24] as can -[1329.24 --> 1329.62] be -[1329.62 --> 1331.14] sex -[1331.14 --> 1331.62] is for -[1331.62 --> 1332.10] marriage -[1332.10 --> 1333.68] and marriage -[1333.68 --> 1334.54] is for -[1334.54 --> 1334.90] life -[1334.90 --> 1336.84] which means -[1336.84 --> 1337.20] that the -[1337.20 --> 1338.10] most significant -[1338.10 --> 1338.84] question -[1338.84 --> 1339.60] for us -[1339.60 --> 1339.94] in a -[1339.94 --> 1340.24] culture -[1340.24 --> 1340.70] that no -[1340.70 --> 1341.04] longer -[1341.04 --> 1341.78] recognizes -[1341.78 --> 1342.42] those -[1342.42 --> 1342.72] sorts -[1342.72 --> 1342.88] of -[1342.88 --> 1343.30] boundaries -[1343.30 --> 1345.02] is not -[1345.02 --> 1345.84] what is -[1345.84 --> 1346.20] right and -[1346.20 --> 1346.44] what is -[1346.44 --> 1346.72] wrong -[1346.72 --> 1347.60] but -[1347.60 --> 1349.08] what is -[1349.08 --> 1349.76] it that -[1349.76 --> 1350.56] we fear -[1350.56 --> 1351.36] most -[1351.36 --> 1353.62] that we -[1353.62 --> 1354.28] might sin -[1354.28 --> 1355.08] against our -[1355.08 --> 1356.02] faithful covenant -[1356.02 --> 1356.72] God -[1356.72 --> 1357.78] by our -[1357.78 --> 1358.70] disobedience -[1358.70 --> 1359.90] or -[1359.90 --> 1361.18] that we -[1361.18 --> 1361.58] might be -[1361.58 --> 1362.38] ridiculed -[1362.38 --> 1363.46] by a -[1363.46 --> 1363.96] world that -[1363.96 --> 1364.38] does not -[1364.38 --> 1364.98] know him -[1364.98 --> 1366.72] for our -[1366.72 --> 1367.68] obedience -[1367.68 --> 1367.94] obedience -[1367.94 --> 1372.12] meanwhile -[1372.12 --> 1372.72] the people -[1372.72 --> 1373.04] of our -[1373.04 --> 1373.42] world have -[1373.42 --> 1374.06] another reason -[1374.06 --> 1375.12] to laugh -[1375.12 --> 1375.58] at Joseph -[1375.58 --> 1376.26] because his -[1376.26 --> 1377.18] obedience lands -[1377.18 --> 1377.80] him in prison -[1377.80 --> 1379.14] and that -[1379.14 --> 1379.78] brings us to -[1379.78 --> 1380.36] the biggest -[1380.36 --> 1380.88] issue -[1380.88 --> 1382.00] of Genesis -[1382.00 --> 1383.20] to the -[1383.20 --> 1383.74] providence -[1383.74 --> 1384.28] question -[1384.28 --> 1385.66] and to -[1385.66 --> 1386.22] Joseph's -[1386.22 --> 1386.84] third and -[1386.84 --> 1387.48] perhaps -[1387.48 --> 1388.66] most difficult -[1388.66 --> 1389.32] temptation -[1389.32 --> 1390.18] the -[1390.18 --> 1390.84] temptation -[1390.84 --> 1391.90] to -[1391.90 --> 1393.06] despair -[1393.06 --> 1395.28] the -[1395.28 --> 1395.74] Lord was -[1395.74 --> 1395.98] with -[1395.98 --> 1396.40] Joseph -[1396.40 --> 1397.18] it -[1397.18 --> 1397.60] says so -[1397.60 --> 1398.04] no less -[1398.04 --> 1398.20] than -[1398.20 --> 1398.40] three -[1398.40 --> 1398.86] times -[1398.86 --> 1400.38] yet -[1400.38 --> 1400.74] Joseph -[1400.74 --> 1401.18] ends up -[1401.18 --> 1401.60] falsely -[1401.60 --> 1402.12] accused -[1402.12 --> 1402.82] and in -[1402.82 --> 1403.10] prison -[1403.10 --> 1403.90] and what -[1403.90 --> 1404.34] kind -[1404.34 --> 1404.62] of -[1404.62 --> 1405.20] providence -[1405.20 --> 1406.14] is that -[1406.14 --> 1408.26] if you -[1408.26 --> 1408.58] do the -[1408.58 --> 1408.94] right thing -[1408.94 --> 1409.46] for God -[1409.46 --> 1410.74] God -[1410.74 --> 1411.14] should do -[1411.14 --> 1411.52] the right -[1411.52 --> 1411.74] thing -[1411.74 --> 1412.28] for you -[1412.28 --> 1412.68] right -[1412.68 --> 1414.58] if you -[1414.58 --> 1415.22] mess up -[1415.22 --> 1416.00] like -[1416.00 --> 1416.58] Potiphar's -[1416.58 --> 1416.94] wife -[1416.94 --> 1418.06] then God -[1418.06 --> 1418.64] should punish -[1418.64 --> 1419.08] you and -[1419.08 --> 1419.62] you deserve -[1419.62 --> 1420.02] it -[1420.02 --> 1422.16] that's -[1422.16 --> 1422.80] the popular -[1422.80 --> 1423.50] simplistic -[1423.50 --> 1424.14] idea -[1424.14 --> 1425.24] of -[1425.24 --> 1425.86] providence -[1425.86 --> 1426.38] that's -[1426.38 --> 1426.56] the -[1426.56 --> 1427.06] heart -[1427.06 --> 1427.44] of the -[1427.44 --> 1427.76] health -[1427.76 --> 1428.62] and wealth -[1428.62 --> 1429.32] gospel -[1429.32 --> 1429.84] promoted -[1429.84 --> 1430.36] by so -[1430.36 --> 1430.64] many -[1430.64 --> 1431.20] evangelical -[1431.20 --> 1431.72] Christians -[1431.72 --> 1432.16] in North -[1432.16 --> 1432.56] America -[1432.56 --> 1433.00] today -[1433.00 --> 1434.72] but that's -[1434.72 --> 1435.00] not how -[1435.00 --> 1435.42] it works -[1435.42 --> 1435.70] here -[1435.70 --> 1438.00] and is -[1438.00 --> 1438.36] it hard -[1438.36 --> 1438.96] to imagine -[1438.96 --> 1439.42] that there -[1439.42 --> 1439.86] must have -[1439.86 --> 1440.06] been -[1440.06 --> 1440.98] so many -[1440.98 --> 1441.38] times -[1441.38 --> 1441.88] in prison -[1441.88 --> 1442.16] that -[1442.16 --> 1442.52] Joseph -[1442.52 --> 1443.04] wondered -[1443.04 --> 1443.66] where -[1443.66 --> 1444.32] is -[1444.32 --> 1444.98] God -[1444.98 --> 1447.54] what's -[1447.54 --> 1447.90] happened -[1447.90 --> 1448.44] to my -[1448.44 --> 1448.92] dreams -[1448.92 --> 1450.68] what -[1450.68 --> 1450.98] good -[1450.98 --> 1451.36] did it -[1451.36 --> 1452.06] do me -[1452.06 --> 1452.70] to stand -[1452.70 --> 1452.92] up -[1452.92 --> 1453.32] for my -[1453.32 --> 1453.94] integrity -[1453.94 --> 1457.36] the -[1457.36 --> 1457.90] temptation -[1457.90 --> 1458.18] to -[1458.18 --> 1458.64] despair -[1458.64 --> 1458.94] is to -[1458.94 --> 1459.12] come -[1459.12 --> 1459.28] to -[1459.28 --> 1459.72] believe -[1459.72 --> 1460.58] that -[1460.58 --> 1460.88] God -[1460.88 --> 1461.20] isn't -[1461.20 --> 1461.52] really -[1461.52 --> 1461.92] God -[1461.92 --> 1462.14] that -[1462.14 --> 1462.68] there -[1462.68 --> 1462.92] is -[1462.92 --> 1463.42] ultimately -[1463.42 --> 1463.94] no -[1463.94 --> 1464.36] justice -[1464.36 --> 1464.70] in the -[1464.70 --> 1464.98] world -[1464.98 --> 1467.28] let's -[1467.28 --> 1467.56] face -[1467.56 --> 1467.80] it -[1467.80 --> 1468.98] lies -[1468.98 --> 1470.80] power -[1470.80 --> 1472.64] lust -[1472.64 --> 1473.60] often -[1473.60 --> 1474.04] work out -[1474.04 --> 1474.74] just fine -[1474.74 --> 1475.24] in the -[1475.24 --> 1475.68] empires -[1475.68 --> 1476.20] of Egypt -[1476.20 --> 1476.70] and of -[1476.70 --> 1476.88] this -[1476.88 --> 1477.22] world -[1477.22 --> 1479.28] do I -[1479.28 --> 1479.48] really -[1479.48 --> 1479.70] need -[1479.70 --> 1479.82] to -[1479.82 --> 1480.00] name -[1480.00 --> 1480.36] names -[1480.36 --> 1482.66] how -[1482.66 --> 1482.98] often -[1482.98 --> 1483.34] didn't -[1483.34 --> 1483.74] psalmist -[1483.74 --> 1484.32] complain -[1484.32 --> 1485.14] about -[1485.14 --> 1485.46] just -[1485.46 --> 1485.74] this -[1485.74 --> 1486.10] matter -[1486.10 --> 1487.82] listen -[1487.82 --> 1488.40] this is -[1488.40 --> 1488.68] what the -[1488.68 --> 1488.90] wicked -[1488.90 --> 1489.34] are like -[1489.34 --> 1489.94] asap -[1489.94 --> 1490.80] psalm 73 -[1490.80 --> 1491.66] always -[1491.66 --> 1492.22] carefree -[1492.22 --> 1492.42] they -[1492.42 --> 1492.86] increase -[1492.86 --> 1493.02] in -[1493.02 --> 1493.34] wealth -[1493.34 --> 1493.76] surely -[1493.76 --> 1494.10] in -[1494.10 --> 1494.40] vain -[1494.40 --> 1494.62] have -[1494.62 --> 1494.76] I -[1494.76 --> 1494.94] kept -[1494.94 --> 1495.18] my -[1495.18 --> 1495.44] heart -[1495.44 --> 1495.78] pure -[1495.78 --> 1496.20] in -[1496.20 --> 1496.54] vain -[1496.54 --> 1496.76] have -[1496.76 --> 1496.92] I -[1496.92 --> 1497.30] washed -[1497.30 --> 1497.56] my -[1497.56 --> 1497.94] hands -[1497.94 --> 1498.46] in -[1498.46 --> 1498.92] innocent -[1498.92 --> 1501.96] but -[1501.96 --> 1502.14] the -[1502.14 --> 1502.46] claim -[1502.46 --> 1502.90] of this -[1502.90 --> 1503.40] story -[1503.40 --> 1504.04] is not -[1504.04 --> 1504.34] that -[1504.34 --> 1504.80] everything -[1504.80 --> 1505.08] will -[1505.08 --> 1505.38] work -[1505.38 --> 1505.58] out -[1505.58 --> 1505.94] how -[1505.94 --> 1506.16] and -[1506.16 --> 1506.40] when -[1506.40 --> 1506.62] we -[1506.62 --> 1506.94] think -[1506.94 --> 1507.14] it -[1507.14 --> 1507.50] should -[1507.50 --> 1508.46] or -[1508.46 --> 1508.70] that -[1508.70 --> 1508.94] we -[1508.94 --> 1509.16] will -[1509.16 --> 1509.34] be -[1509.34 --> 1509.62] saved -[1509.62 --> 1509.80] from -[1509.80 --> 1510.16] every -[1510.16 --> 1510.56] trouble -[1510.56 --> 1512.02] or -[1512.02 --> 1512.20] that -[1512.20 --> 1512.38] the -[1512.38 --> 1512.60] wicked -[1512.60 --> 1512.82] will -[1512.82 --> 1513.30] always -[1513.30 --> 1513.54] get -[1513.54 --> 1513.72] their -[1513.72 --> 1514.00] just -[1514.00 --> 1514.64] deserts -[1514.64 --> 1514.88] here -[1514.88 --> 1515.12] and -[1515.12 --> 1515.42] now -[1515.42 --> 1516.84] no -[1516.84 --> 1519.06] God's -[1519.06 --> 1519.34] goodness -[1519.34 --> 1519.72] to the -[1519.72 --> 1520.10] faithful -[1520.10 --> 1521.20] is -[1521.20 --> 1521.46] very -[1521.46 --> 1521.84] real -[1521.84 --> 1523.28] but -[1523.28 --> 1523.50] it -[1523.50 --> 1523.70] is -[1523.70 --> 1523.96] not -[1523.96 --> 1524.32] part -[1524.32 --> 1524.62] of -[1524.62 --> 1525.00] any -[1525.00 --> 1525.82] bargain -[1525.82 --> 1528.38] just -[1528.38 --> 1528.64] read -[1528.64 --> 1528.78] the -[1528.78 --> 1528.94] book -[1528.94 --> 1529.08] of -[1529.08 --> 1529.30] Job -[1529.30 --> 1530.76] it -[1530.76 --> 1531.14] comes -[1531.14 --> 1531.70] only -[1531.70 --> 1532.42] as -[1532.42 --> 1532.92] grace -[1532.92 --> 1534.58] there -[1534.58 --> 1534.78] is -[1534.78 --> 1535.16] never -[1535.16 --> 1536.18] a -[1536.18 --> 1536.78] guarantee -[1536.78 --> 1537.18] that -[1537.18 --> 1537.44] as -[1537.44 --> 1537.74] Paul -[1537.74 --> 1538.02] wrote -[1538.02 --> 1538.20] to -[1538.20 --> 1538.56] Christians -[1538.56 --> 1538.82] in -[1538.82 --> 1539.10] Rome -[1539.10 --> 1539.84] that -[1539.84 --> 1540.00] we -[1540.00 --> 1540.16] will -[1540.16 --> 1540.40] not -[1540.40 --> 1540.62] have -[1540.62 --> 1540.78] to -[1540.78 --> 1541.02] suffer -[1541.02 --> 1541.46] trouble -[1541.46 --> 1541.78] or -[1541.78 --> 1542.20] hardship -[1542.20 --> 1542.74] or -[1542.74 --> 1543.34] persecution -[1543.34 --> 1543.70] or -[1543.70 --> 1544.06] famine -[1544.06 --> 1544.28] or -[1544.28 --> 1544.82] nakedness -[1544.82 --> 1544.96] or -[1544.96 --> 1545.28] danger -[1545.28 --> 1545.50] or -[1545.50 --> 1545.84] sword -[1545.84 --> 1547.76] there -[1547.76 --> 1547.96] is -[1547.96 --> 1548.34] only -[1548.34 --> 1548.60] a -[1548.60 --> 1549.08] promise -[1549.08 --> 1549.88] that -[1549.88 --> 1550.04] we -[1550.04 --> 1550.22] do -[1550.22 --> 1550.54] not -[1550.54 --> 1550.98] suffer -[1550.98 --> 1551.30] it -[1551.30 --> 1551.98] alone -[1551.98 --> 1552.78] and -[1552.78 --> 1553.04] that -[1553.04 --> 1553.44] God -[1553.44 --> 1553.74] will -[1553.74 --> 1554.10] work -[1554.10 --> 1554.78] some -[1554.78 --> 1555.44] good -[1555.44 --> 1555.84] from -[1555.84 --> 1556.02] it -[1556.02 --> 1557.98] the -[1557.98 --> 1558.40] claim -[1558.40 --> 1558.62] of -[1558.62 --> 1559.00] Genesis -[1559.00 --> 1559.60] 39 -[1559.60 --> 1560.14] is -[1560.14 --> 1560.32] that -[1560.32 --> 1560.54] the -[1560.54 --> 1560.90] covenant -[1560.90 --> 1561.32] God -[1561.32 --> 1561.54] is -[1561.54 --> 1561.82] with -[1561.82 --> 1562.24] Joseph -[1562.24 --> 1562.52] that -[1562.52 --> 1562.86] God -[1562.86 --> 1563.02] is -[1563.02 --> 1563.22] on -[1563.22 --> 1563.80] Joseph's -[1563.80 --> 1564.20] side -[1564.20 --> 1565.84] the -[1565.84 --> 1566.22] side -[1566.22 --> 1566.34] of -[1566.34 --> 1566.48] the -[1566.48 --> 1566.88] promise -[1566.88 --> 1567.10] the -[1567.10 --> 1567.40] side -[1567.40 --> 1567.52] of -[1567.52 --> 1567.62] the -[1567.62 --> 1568.04] dream -[1568.04 --> 1568.90] no -[1568.90 --> 1569.22] matter -[1569.22 --> 1569.50] what -[1569.50 --> 1569.82] evil -[1569.82 --> 1570.34] befalls -[1570.34 --> 1570.64] him -[1570.64 --> 1571.28] only -[1571.28 --> 1571.54] in -[1571.54 --> 1572.06] retrospect -[1572.06 --> 1572.34] and -[1572.34 --> 1572.54] many -[1572.54 --> 1572.80] years -[1572.80 --> 1573.10] later -[1573.10 --> 1573.32] as -[1573.32 --> 1573.60] many -[1573.60 --> 1573.74] of -[1573.74 --> 1573.82] you -[1573.82 --> 1574.04] already -[1574.04 --> 1574.44] know -[1574.44 --> 1575.72] will -[1575.72 --> 1576.12] Joseph -[1576.12 --> 1576.60] connect -[1576.60 --> 1576.80] all -[1576.80 --> 1576.94] the -[1576.94 --> 1577.38] dots -[1577.38 --> 1578.40] and -[1578.40 --> 1578.62] see -[1578.62 --> 1578.80] the -[1578.80 --> 1579.00] good -[1579.00 --> 1579.40] things -[1579.40 --> 1579.58] that -[1579.58 --> 1579.94] God -[1579.94 --> 1580.30] brought -[1580.30 --> 1580.60] out -[1580.60 --> 1580.76] of -[1580.76 --> 1581.12] every -[1581.12 --> 1581.48] evil -[1581.48 --> 1581.66] he -[1581.66 --> 1582.26] experienced -[1582.26 --> 1582.86] including -[1582.86 --> 1583.18] being -[1583.18 --> 1583.68] sold -[1583.68 --> 1584.12] as -[1584.12 --> 1584.28] a -[1584.28 --> 1584.60] slave -[1584.60 --> 1584.82] and -[1584.82 --> 1585.30] falsely -[1585.30 --> 1586.10] convicted -[1586.10 --> 1586.42] of -[1586.42 --> 1586.84] attempted -[1586.84 --> 1587.36] rape -[1587.36 --> 1588.92] but -[1588.92 --> 1589.08] it -[1589.08 --> 1589.28] does -[1589.28 --> 1589.64] not -[1589.64 --> 1589.94] mean -[1589.94 --> 1590.16] that -[1592.24 --> 1592.64] to -[1592.64 --> 1592.92] all -[1592.92 --> 1593.06] of -[1593.06 --> 1593.20] our -[1593.20 --> 1593.72] questions -[1593.72 --> 1594.22] about -[1594.22 --> 1594.50] all -[1594.50 --> 1594.68] the -[1594.68 --> 1595.08] ways -[1595.08 --> 1595.46] of -[1595.46 --> 1595.86] God's -[1595.86 --> 1596.50] providence -[1596.50 --> 1598.04] sometimes -[1598.04 --> 1598.94] you hear -[1598.94 --> 1599.52] people say -[1599.52 --> 1599.82] that -[1599.82 --> 1601.04] God -[1601.04 --> 1601.36] has a -[1601.36 --> 1601.64] plan -[1601.64 --> 1601.84] for -[1601.84 --> 1602.00] your -[1602.00 --> 1602.38] life -[1602.38 --> 1604.12] but -[1604.12 --> 1604.28] boy -[1604.28 --> 1604.46] that -[1604.46 --> 1604.62] can -[1604.62 --> 1604.84] leave -[1604.84 --> 1604.94] you -[1604.94 --> 1605.10] with -[1605.10 --> 1605.24] as -[1605.24 --> 1605.52] many -[1605.52 --> 1606.06] questions -[1606.06 --> 1606.52] as -[1606.52 --> 1606.94] answers -[1606.94 --> 1608.50] does -[1608.50 --> 1608.64] that -[1608.64 --> 1608.82] mean -[1608.82 --> 1609.02] that -[1609.02 --> 1609.28] Joseph -[1609.28 --> 1609.64] being -[1609.64 --> 1610.04] sold -[1610.04 --> 1610.24] and -[1610.24 --> 1610.64] falsely -[1610.64 --> 1611.02] accused -[1611.02 --> 1611.22] and -[1611.22 --> 1611.42] thrown -[1611.42 --> 1611.64] into -[1611.64 --> 1611.94] prison -[1611.94 --> 1612.18] is -[1612.18 --> 1612.44] all -[1612.44 --> 1612.72] part -[1612.72 --> 1612.84] of -[1612.84 --> 1613.40] some -[1613.40 --> 1613.72] bigger -[1613.72 --> 1614.18] divine -[1614.18 --> 1614.58] plan -[1614.58 --> 1614.76] that -[1614.76 --> 1614.92] has -[1614.92 --> 1615.06] been -[1615.06 --> 1615.56] carefully -[1615.56 --> 1616.06] sketched -[1616.06 --> 1616.20] out -[1616.20 --> 1616.38] on -[1616.38 --> 1616.50] a -[1616.50 --> 1617.06] providential -[1617.06 --> 1617.42] drawing -[1617.42 --> 1617.74] board -[1617.74 --> 1618.40] by God -[1618.40 --> 1618.86] himself -[1618.86 --> 1619.62] did -[1619.62 --> 1620.02] God -[1620.02 --> 1620.52] motivate -[1620.52 --> 1620.90] ten -[1620.90 --> 1621.18] brothers -[1621.18 --> 1621.38] to -[1621.38 --> 1621.60] hate -[1621.60 --> 1621.74] a -[1621.74 --> 1621.94] younger -[1621.94 --> 1622.18] brother -[1622.18 --> 1622.56] enough -[1622.56 --> 1622.78] to -[1622.78 --> 1623.04] sell -[1623.04 --> 1623.32] him -[1623.32 --> 1624.06] did -[1624.06 --> 1624.32] God -[1624.32 --> 1624.74] crank -[1624.74 --> 1624.96] up -[1624.96 --> 1625.24] Mrs. -[1625.32 --> 1625.84] Potiphar's -[1625.84 --> 1626.24] hormones -[1626.24 --> 1626.52] and -[1626.52 --> 1626.68] then -[1626.68 --> 1627.22] furthermore -[1627.22 --> 1627.62] entice -[1627.62 --> 1627.72] her -[1627.72 --> 1627.88] to -[1627.88 --> 1628.24] lie -[1628.24 --> 1630.76] or -[1630.76 --> 1630.92] is -[1630.92 --> 1631.10] it -[1631.10 --> 1631.34] truer -[1631.34 --> 1631.56] to -[1631.56 --> 1631.86] say -[1631.86 --> 1633.28] that -[1633.28 --> 1633.66] God -[1633.66 --> 1633.88] while -[1633.88 --> 1634.36] never -[1634.36 --> 1635.24] undone -[1635.24 --> 1635.50] by -[1635.50 --> 1635.98] anything -[1635.98 --> 1636.20] that -[1636.20 --> 1636.74] happens -[1636.74 --> 1639.36] especially -[1639.36 --> 1640.08] sinful -[1640.08 --> 1641.02] evil -[1641.02 --> 1641.58] things -[1641.58 --> 1644.08] including -[1644.08 --> 1644.32] the -[1644.32 --> 1644.52] sin -[1644.52 --> 1644.72] we -[1644.72 --> 1645.00] do -[1645.00 --> 1646.48] does -[1646.48 --> 1646.76] not -[1646.76 --> 1647.24] plan -[1647.24 --> 1647.70] every -[1647.70 --> 1647.94] one -[1647.94 --> 1648.06] of -[1648.06 --> 1648.28] them -[1648.28 --> 1649.42] but -[1649.42 --> 1649.84] grants -[1649.84 --> 1650.10] us -[1650.10 --> 1650.54] enough -[1650.54 --> 1650.84] free -[1650.84 --> 1651.16] will -[1651.16 --> 1651.54] so -[1651.54 --> 1651.72] that -[1651.72 --> 1652.06] often -[1652.06 --> 1652.46] things -[1652.46 --> 1652.86] happen -[1652.86 --> 1653.10] that -[1653.10 --> 1653.56] definitely -[1653.56 --> 1653.88] are -[1653.88 --> 1654.46] not -[1654.46 --> 1655.70] God's -[1655.70 --> 1655.94] will -[1655.94 --> 1658.64] whatever -[1658.64 --> 1658.96] way -[1658.96 --> 1659.28] you go -[1659.28 --> 1659.72] you still -[1659.72 --> 1660.16] end up -[1660.16 --> 1660.48] with a -[1660.48 --> 1660.68] good -[1660.68 --> 1661.02] covenant -[1661.02 --> 1661.38] God -[1661.38 --> 1661.64] on the -[1661.64 --> 1661.86] one -[1661.86 --> 1662.16] side -[1662.16 --> 1662.34] and -[1662.34 --> 1662.78] bad -[1662.78 --> 1663.30] stuff -[1663.30 --> 1663.80] happening -[1663.80 --> 1664.64] even -[1664.64 --> 1664.86] to -[1664.86 --> 1665.04] his -[1665.04 --> 1665.38] own -[1665.38 --> 1666.04] children -[1666.04 --> 1666.78] on the -[1666.78 --> 1666.98] other -[1666.98 --> 1667.42] side -[1667.42 --> 1668.54] the -[1668.54 --> 1668.98] connection -[1668.98 --> 1669.44] between -[1669.44 --> 1669.68] the -[1669.68 --> 1669.94] two -[1669.94 --> 1670.54] remaining -[1670.54 --> 1671.02] one -[1671.02 --> 1671.74] big -[1671.74 --> 1672.52] mystery -[1672.52 --> 1674.80] that's -[1674.80 --> 1675.00] the -[1675.00 --> 1675.46] dilemma -[1675.46 --> 1676.10] Genesis -[1676.10 --> 1676.80] 39 -[1676.80 --> 1677.40] raises -[1677.40 --> 1678.32] though -[1678.32 --> 1678.46] it -[1678.46 --> 1678.72] doesn't -[1678.72 --> 1679.02] solve -[1679.02 --> 1679.20] it -[1679.20 --> 1680.42] or -[1680.42 --> 1680.64] even -[1680.64 --> 1681.10] try -[1681.10 --> 1682.56] what -[1682.56 --> 1682.70] it -[1682.70 --> 1682.98] shows -[1682.98 --> 1683.54] instead -[1683.54 --> 1684.56] is -[1684.56 --> 1684.74] that -[1684.74 --> 1685.14] God -[1685.14 --> 1685.44] is -[1685.44 --> 1685.76] with -[1685.76 --> 1685.96] his -[1685.96 --> 1686.30] people -[1686.30 --> 1686.68] God -[1686.68 --> 1687.24] sticks -[1687.24 --> 1687.54] with -[1687.54 --> 1687.80] them -[1687.80 --> 1688.42] and -[1688.42 --> 1688.72] even -[1688.72 --> 1689.08] some -[1689.08 --> 1689.22] of -[1689.22 --> 1689.38] the -[1689.38 --> 1689.72] worst -[1689.72 --> 1690.04] things -[1690.04 --> 1690.24] that -[1690.24 --> 1690.56] come -[1690.56 --> 1690.90] our -[1690.90 --> 1691.24] way -[1691.24 --> 1692.14] don't -[1692.14 --> 1692.70] and -[1692.70 --> 1693.26] cannot -[1693.26 --> 1694.18] derail -[1694.18 --> 1694.58] him -[1694.58 --> 1696.94] Mrs. P -[1696.94 --> 1697.42] might have -[1697.42 --> 1697.72] thought -[1697.72 --> 1699.18] she'd -[1699.18 --> 1699.38] seen -[1699.38 --> 1699.54] the -[1699.54 --> 1699.82] last -[1699.82 --> 1699.98] of -[1699.98 --> 1700.32] Joseph -[1700.32 --> 1703.04] she is -[1703.04 --> 1703.34] going to -[1703.34 --> 1703.66] be in -[1703.66 --> 1704.02] for the -[1704.02 --> 1704.28] same -[1704.28 --> 1704.96] surprise -[1704.96 --> 1706.18] one -[1706.18 --> 1706.52] day -[1706.52 --> 1707.14] as -[1707.14 --> 1707.58] Joseph's -[1707.58 --> 1707.98] brothers -[1707.98 --> 1709.94] for as -[1709.94 --> 1710.52] long as -[1710.52 --> 1711.24] people keep -[1711.24 --> 1711.82] tossing -[1711.82 --> 1712.24] Joseph -[1712.24 --> 1712.82] aside -[1712.82 --> 1713.62] like a -[1713.62 --> 1713.84] dirty -[1713.84 --> 1714.14] old -[1714.14 --> 1714.50] rag -[1714.50 --> 1715.86] the -[1715.86 --> 1716.18] God -[1716.18 --> 1716.64] who gave -[1716.64 --> 1717.10] Joseph -[1717.10 --> 1717.36] his -[1717.36 --> 1717.82] dreams -[1717.82 --> 1718.04] of -[1718.04 --> 1718.46] greatness -[1718.46 --> 1719.42] so -[1719.42 --> 1719.74] long -[1719.74 --> 1720.06] ago -[1720.06 --> 1720.50] keeps -[1720.50 --> 1720.92] catching -[1720.92 --> 1721.30] him -[1721.30 --> 1722.10] in -[1722.10 --> 1722.34] the -[1722.34 --> 1722.76] sovereign -[1722.76 --> 1723.16] and -[1723.16 --> 1723.64] divine -[1723.64 --> 1724.38] arms -[1724.38 --> 1725.06] of -[1725.06 --> 1725.48] grace -[1725.48 --> 1728.10] and -[1728.10 --> 1728.46] while we -[1728.46 --> 1728.78] may not -[1728.78 --> 1728.98] have -[1728.98 --> 1729.30] all the -[1729.30 --> 1729.68] answers -[1729.68 --> 1730.44] to the -[1730.44 --> 1730.78] loose -[1730.78 --> 1731.16] ends -[1731.16 --> 1731.52] of -[1731.52 --> 1732.16] providence -[1732.16 --> 1733.56] there is -[1733.56 --> 1734.02] something -[1734.02 --> 1734.64] comforting -[1734.64 --> 1735.82] about the -[1735.82 --> 1736.44] divine -[1736.44 --> 1737.90] doggedness -[1737.90 --> 1738.76] and -[1738.76 --> 1739.50] persistence -[1739.50 --> 1739.96] and -[1739.96 --> 1740.62] determination -[1740.62 --> 1741.36] that we -[1741.36 --> 1741.76] see -[1741.76 --> 1742.70] not only -[1742.70 --> 1743.12] in the -[1743.12 --> 1743.42] Joseph -[1743.42 --> 1743.96] story -[1743.96 --> 1745.74] but in -[1745.74 --> 1746.22] all of -[1746.22 --> 1746.62] Genesis -[1746.62 --> 1747.90] and all -[1747.90 --> 1748.16] of the -[1748.16 --> 1748.52] Bible -[1748.52 --> 1749.38] isn't -[1749.38 --> 1749.62] there -[1749.62 --> 1750.70] come -[1750.70 --> 1751.14] hell -[1751.14 --> 1751.66] or high -[1751.66 --> 1752.00] water -[1752.00 --> 1753.62] God -[1753.62 --> 1753.84] will -[1753.84 --> 1754.38] realize -[1754.38 --> 1754.60] his -[1754.60 --> 1754.98] promise -[1754.98 --> 1755.16] to -[1755.16 --> 1755.54] Abraham -[1755.54 --> 1756.62] and -[1756.62 --> 1756.76] his -[1756.76 --> 1757.02] good -[1757.02 --> 1757.42] plan -[1757.42 --> 1757.66] to -[1757.66 --> 1758.04] bless -[1758.04 --> 1758.68] all -[1758.68 --> 1759.14] peoples -[1759.14 --> 1759.46] on -[1759.46 --> 1759.76] earth -[1759.76 --> 1760.74] in -[1760.74 --> 1761.00] that -[1761.00 --> 1761.62] determined -[1761.62 --> 1762.34] providence -[1762.34 --> 1763.82] is -[1763.82 --> 1764.08] our -[1764.08 --> 1764.46] every -[1764.46 --> 1764.76] hope -[1764.76 --> 1766.02] especially -[1766.02 --> 1766.38] in -[1766.38 --> 1766.86] times -[1766.86 --> 1767.84] when -[1767.84 --> 1768.18] like -[1768.18 --> 1768.52] Joseph -[1768.52 --> 1769.38] we -[1769.38 --> 1769.68] feel -[1769.68 --> 1770.34] confusion -[1770.34 --> 1771.30] and -[1771.30 --> 1771.70] pain -[1771.70 --> 1773.50] and -[1773.50 --> 1773.74] however -[1773.74 --> 1774.18] we -[1774.18 --> 1774.74] understand -[1774.74 --> 1775.42] providence -[1775.42 --> 1776.68] precisely -[1776.68 --> 1777.14] because -[1777.14 --> 1777.48] God -[1777.48 --> 1777.86] is -[1777.86 --> 1778.20] good -[1778.20 --> 1778.90] and -[1778.90 --> 1779.20] God -[1779.20 --> 1779.54] is -[1779.54 --> 1779.96] loving -[1779.96 --> 1780.86] and -[1780.86 --> 1781.12] God -[1781.12 --> 1781.48] is -[1781.48 --> 1781.80] also -[1781.80 --> 1782.04] so -[1782.04 --> 1782.46] very -[1782.46 --> 1783.08] powerful -[1783.08 --> 1784.48] we -[1784.48 --> 1785.00] know -[1785.00 --> 1785.38] he -[1785.38 --> 1785.64] will -[1785.64 --> 1786.18] never -[1786.18 --> 1787.08] let -[1787.08 --> 1787.50] this -[1787.50 --> 1788.18] life's -[1788.18 --> 1788.98] tragedies -[1788.98 --> 1790.02] have -[1790.02 --> 1790.18] the -[1790.18 --> 1790.44] last -[1790.44 --> 1790.78] word -[1790.78 --> 1793.32] and -[1793.32 --> 1793.46] we -[1793.46 --> 1793.70] know -[1793.70 --> 1793.88] it -[1793.88 --> 1794.36] because -[1794.36 --> 1795.70] as -[1795.70 --> 1795.86] we -[1795.86 --> 1796.18] follow -[1796.18 --> 1796.78] Joseph's -[1796.78 --> 1797.12] story -[1797.12 --> 1798.22] we -[1798.22 --> 1798.48] cannot -[1798.48 --> 1798.78] help -[1798.78 --> 1798.94] but -[1798.94 --> 1799.08] be -[1799.08 --> 1799.52] reminded -[1799.52 --> 1799.80] of -[1799.80 --> 1800.06] another -[1800.06 --> 1800.56] story -[1800.56 --> 1801.60] of -[1801.60 --> 1801.84] one -[1801.84 --> 1802.04] who -[1802.04 --> 1802.30] though -[1802.30 --> 1802.78] innocent -[1802.78 --> 1803.56] was -[1803.56 --> 1804.02] betrayed -[1804.02 --> 1805.38] whose -[1805.38 --> 1806.00] integrity -[1806.00 --> 1806.64] challenged -[1806.64 --> 1807.04] another -[1807.04 --> 1807.58] empire -[1807.58 --> 1808.88] and -[1808.88 --> 1809.04] whose -[1809.04 --> 1809.38] God -[1809.38 --> 1809.68] seemed -[1809.68 --> 1809.86] to -[1809.86 --> 1810.30] abandon -[1810.30 --> 1810.66] him -[1810.66 --> 1811.40] to -[1811.40 --> 1811.58] a -[1811.58 --> 1811.94] cross -[1811.94 --> 1813.30] we -[1813.30 --> 1813.54] know -[1813.54 --> 1813.70] it -[1813.70 --> 1814.06] because -[1814.06 --> 1814.30] we -[1814.30 --> 1814.58] know -[1814.58 --> 1814.88] our -[1814.88 --> 1815.10] Lord -[1815.10 --> 1815.40] Jesus -[1815.40 --> 1815.86] Christ -[1815.86 --> 1816.06] who -[1816.06 --> 1816.26] on -[1816.26 --> 1816.42] the -[1816.42 --> 1816.76] darkest -[1816.76 --> 1817.20] Friday -[1817.20 --> 1817.44] there -[1817.44 --> 1817.72] ever -[1817.72 --> 1818.12] was -[1818.12 --> 1819.36] as -[1819.36 --> 1819.46] he -[1819.46 --> 1819.64] was -[1819.64 --> 1820.04] dying -[1820.04 --> 1820.38] inch -[1820.38 --> 1820.54] by -[1820.54 --> 1821.06] painful -[1821.06 --> 1821.52] inch -[1821.52 --> 1822.42] on -[1822.42 --> 1822.58] a -[1822.58 --> 1823.02] cross -[1823.02 --> 1823.82] from -[1823.82 --> 1824.06] his -[1824.06 --> 1824.38] fatal -[1824.38 --> 1824.82] wounds -[1824.82 --> 1825.94] cried -[1825.94 --> 1826.24] out -[1826.24 --> 1826.54] my -[1826.54 --> 1827.02] God -[1827.02 --> 1827.26] my -[1827.26 --> 1827.66] God -[1827.66 --> 1828.20] why -[1828.20 --> 1828.74] have -[1828.74 --> 1828.90] you -[1828.90 --> 1829.48] forsaken -[1829.48 --> 1829.82] me -[1829.82 --> 1832.00] but -[1832.00 --> 1832.24] who -[1832.24 --> 1832.62] three -[1832.62 --> 1832.90] days -[1832.90 --> 1833.28] later -[1833.28 --> 1834.76] was -[1834.76 --> 1835.26] alive -[1835.26 --> 1835.68] again -[1835.68 --> 1836.82] appeared -[1836.82 --> 1837.00] to -[1837.00 --> 1837.22] his -[1837.22 --> 1837.72] disciples -[1837.72 --> 1838.66] and -[1838.66 --> 1839.12] said -[1839.12 --> 1840.28] peace -[1840.28 --> 1841.32] be -[1841.32 --> 1841.58] with -[1841.58 --> 1841.84] you -[1841.84 --> 1844.10] because -[1844.10 --> 1844.46] we -[1844.46 --> 1844.76] know -[1844.76 --> 1845.20] him -[1845.20 --> 1845.86] for -[1845.86 --> 1846.30] us -[1846.30 --> 1847.08] as -[1847.08 --> 1847.28] for -[1847.28 --> 1847.70] Joseph -[1847.70 --> 1848.00] in -[1848.00 --> 1848.36] Genesis -[1848.36 --> 1848.92] 39 -[1848.92 --> 1850.16] the -[1850.16 --> 1850.56] last -[1850.56 --> 1850.78] thing -[1850.78 --> 1850.98] to -[1850.98 --> 1851.30] say -[1851.30 --> 1852.02] will -[1852.02 --> 1852.52] always -[1852.52 --> 1852.88] be -[1852.88 --> 1853.54] the -[1853.54 --> 1853.96] same -[1853.96 --> 1854.60] as -[1854.60 --> 1854.80] the -[1854.80 --> 1855.14] first -[1855.14 --> 1855.30] thing -[1855.30 --> 1855.50] to -[1855.50 --> 1855.78] say -[1855.78 --> 1857.50] the -[1857.50 --> 1857.84] Lord -[1857.84 --> 1858.72] is -[1858.72 --> 1859.00] with -[1859.00 --> 1859.36] us -[1859.36 --> 1860.74] whatever -[1860.74 --> 1861.26] your -[1861.26 --> 1862.14] circumstances -[1862.14 --> 1863.32] the -[1863.32 --> 1863.70] Lord -[1863.70 --> 1864.80] is -[1864.80 --> 1866.00] with -[1866.00 --> 1866.36] us -[1866.36 --> 1867.28] in -[1867.28 --> 1867.42] the -[1867.42 --> 1867.60] name -[1867.60 --> 1867.74] of -[1867.74 --> 1867.88] the -[1867.88 --> 1868.14] Father -[1868.14 --> 1868.40] the -[1868.40 --> 1868.66] Son -[1868.66 --> 1869.50] and -[1869.50 --> 1869.66] the -[1869.66 --> 1869.86] Holy -[1869.86 --> 1870.28] Spirit -[1870.28 --> 1871.98] let's -[1871.98 --> 1872.24] pray -[1872.24 --> 1874.26] gracious -[1874.26 --> 1874.68] God -[1874.68 --> 1876.36] in -[1876.36 --> 1876.74] light of -[1876.74 --> 1876.90] that -[1876.90 --> 1877.34] promise -[1877.34 --> 1877.56] we -[1877.56 --> 1877.90] come -[1877.90 --> 1878.24] now -[1878.24 --> 1878.46] to -[1878.46 --> 1878.64] your -[1878.64 --> 1879.00] table -[1879.00 --> 1882.40] whatever -[1882.40 --> 1882.72] the -[1882.72 --> 1883.40] circumstances -[1883.40 --> 1883.96] of our -[1883.96 --> 1884.28] lives -[1884.28 --> 1884.54] might -[1884.54 --> 1884.88] be -[1884.88 --> 1885.86] those -[1885.86 --> 1886.04] of -[1886.04 --> 1886.20] us -[1886.20 --> 1886.42] here -[1886.42 --> 1886.68] those -[1886.68 --> 1886.82] of -[1886.82 --> 1887.00] us -[1887.00 --> 1887.40] listening -[1887.40 --> 1890.72] use -[1890.72 --> 1891.00] whatever -[1891.00 --> 1891.30] you -[1891.30 --> 1891.50] need -[1891.50 --> 1891.66] to -[1891.66 --> 1891.96] use -[1891.96 --> 1892.22] Lord -[1892.22 --> 1892.66] today -[1892.66 --> 1894.18] to -[1894.18 --> 1894.56] remind -[1894.56 --> 1894.84] us -[1894.84 --> 1895.06] that -[1895.06 --> 1895.22] you -[1895.22 --> 1895.36] are -[1895.36 --> 1895.58] with -[1895.58 --> 1895.90] us -[1895.90 --> 1896.72] always -[1896.72 --> 1898.66] always -[1898.66 --> 1899.64] and -[1899.64 --> 1899.86] that -[1899.86 --> 1900.14] you -[1900.14 --> 1900.44] will -[1900.44 --> 1900.90] never -[1900.90 --> 1901.60] forsake -[1901.60 --> 1901.96] your -[1901.96 --> 1902.34] children -[1902.34 --> 1904.04] and -[1904.04 --> 1904.22] so -[1904.22 --> 1904.46] Lord -[1904.46 --> 1904.86] especially -[1904.86 --> 1905.18] if we -[1905.18 --> 1905.30] are -[1905.30 --> 1905.74] experiencing -[1905.74 --> 1906.12] troubled -[1906.12 --> 1906.62] times -[1906.62 --> 1908.16] you -[1908.16 --> 1908.32] know -[1908.32 --> 1908.48] how -[1908.48 --> 1908.68] much -[1908.68 --> 1908.82] we -[1908.82 --> 1909.00] need -[1909.00 --> 1909.20] that -[1909.20 --> 1909.66] assurance -[1909.66 --> 1909.86] and -[1909.86 --> 1910.04] may -[1910.04 --> 1910.38] this -[1910.38 --> 1910.86] table -[1910.86 --> 1911.16] now -[1911.16 --> 1911.36] that -[1911.36 --> 1911.50] we -[1911.50 --> 1911.74] come -[1911.74 --> 1911.96] to -[1911.96 --> 1913.02] also -[1913.02 --> 1913.44] provide -[1913.44 --> 1913.68] that -[1913.68 --> 1914.16] assurance -[1914.16 --> 1914.48] for -[1914.48 --> 1914.84] us -[1914.88 --> 1916.42] that -[1916.42 --> 1916.62] in -[1916.62 --> 1917.02] Christ -[1917.02 --> 1917.60] Emmanuel -[1917.60 --> 1918.18] we -[1918.18 --> 1918.46] know -[1918.46 --> 1920.34] we -[1920.34 --> 1920.58] know -[1920.58 --> 1920.70] it -[1920.70 --> 1920.90] for -[1920.90 --> 1921.16] good -[1921.16 --> 1922.36] that -[1922.36 --> 1922.74] you -[1922.74 --> 1923.12] are -[1923.12 --> 1923.78] indeed -[1923.78 --> 1924.38] with -[1924.38 --> 1924.70] us -[1924.70 --> 1925.18] in -[1925.18 --> 1925.44] Jesus -[1925.44 --> 1925.80] name -[1925.80 --> 1926.02] we -[1926.02 --> 1926.30] pray -[1926.30 --> 1927.12] and -[1927.12 --> 1927.40] thank -[1927.40 --> 1927.64] you -[1927.64 --> 1928.50] amen -[1928.50 --> 1930.20] oh -[1930.20 --> 1938.24] to -[1938.24 --> 1940.54] Oh -[1940.54 --> 1940.58] to -[1940.58 --> 1942.70] you diff --git "a/Joseph #4\342\200\224God Remembers (Sermon)_summary.txt" "b/Joseph #4\342\200\224God Remembers (Sermon)_summary.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 94ecd88ee09c276f7be9dedb55841a5e102f9c16..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Joseph #4\342\200\224God Remembers (Sermon)_summary.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,92 +0,0 @@ -• Joseph is in prison with two officials, the chief cupbearer and the chief baker -• They both have dreams that they don't understand -• Joseph interprets their dreams correctly -• The chief cupbearer's dream means he will be restored to his position within three days -• The chief baker's dream means he will be executed within three days -• Pharaoh has two disturbing dreams about cows and grain -• No one can interpret the dreams, but the chief cupbearer remembers Joseph's gift of interpreting dreams -• Two years later, Pharaoh has the same dream again and sends for all the magicians and wise men to try to interpret it. -• Joseph's role as interpreter of dreams and servant to the captain of the guard -• Pharaoh's dream about seven good cows and seven bad cows, and its interpretation by Joseph -• Seven years of abundance in Egypt followed by seven years of famine -• Pharaoh's plan to store food for the famine and appoint commissioners over the land -• Pharaoh's recognition of Joseph's wisdom and authority, and his appointment as second-in-command -• A father forgets his youngest son at the beach and rushes back to retrieve him -• The story illustrates how easily we can feel forgotten by God despite being unique individuals with our own stories -• The speaker reflects on the importance of knowing that God remembers and cares for each person individually -• A biblical theme is discussed, referencing Psalm 103 and the gospel of Genesis 40-41, which emphasizes God's promise to bless Abraham and his descendants -• Joseph's story from the Bible is mentioned as an example of how God works in difficult circumstances to prosper those who trust in Him. -• Joseph is entrusted with running the prison and has a significant role in interpreting the dreams of the pharaoh's butler and baker. -• Both the butler and baker have similar dreams involving the expression "lifting your head", which Joseph interprets as meaning the butler will be restored to his position, but the baker will be executed. -• Joseph is honest with the baker about his fate, even though it means being unpleasant. -• The cupbearer is impressed by Joseph's ability to interpret dreams and promises to remember him when he returns to Pharaoh. -• However, the cupbearer fails to follow through on his promise and instead attends a party where the butler is restored to his position, but the baker is executed. -• Joseph's story of being forgotten by his brother and the cupbearer -• The pain of feeling abandoned and ignored, especially after experiencing a glimmer of hope -• The emotional struggle of wondering if God has forgotten him -• Comparison to other experiences where people feel alone, unheard, or forsaken -• Joseph's silence is broken when Pharaoh's court becomes frantic due to disturbing dreams -• Pharaoh's instinctual recognition of Joseph as the real thing -• Connection between Joseph and Pharaoh beyond human understanding -• Chief cup bearer remembers Joseph, God remembers him too -• Joseph's comeback after being in prison for years -• Gears of God's purposes moving forward with Joseph's release -• Joseph's acknowledgment of God as source of dreams and his prediction of 7 years of abundance followed by famine -• God remembers his covenant with Abraham and his descendants -• Joseph's story in the Old Testament demonstrates God's remembering nature -• God's remembering is a source of comfort, thanksgiving, and hope for those who are forgotten or oppressed -• Even when individuals feel hopeless and forsaken, God's remembering gives them new hope and future -• Examples from the Old Testament illustrate God's consistent remembering and covenant-keeping nature -• Forgetting a baby at birth -• Normal mothers not perfect -• Exceptions to normal behavior (e.g. mental disease, sinful neglect) -• God does not forget those who are forgotten by their parents -• Permanent mark of remembrance between God and his children -• Jesus' teaching on addressing God as "father" -• The concept of God's care and relationship to the world -• Parable of sparrows falling, highlighting God's knowledge and love -• Quote from Sevilla D. Martin in 1905 regarding God's watchfulness -• Reflections on mortality and the passing of time -• The husband needed a wheelchair to move around -• The couple lived lives of faith and courage that inspired others -• They were known for their hopefulness, which was rooted in God's promise -• When asked about the secret of their hopefulness, the wife replied that God remembers and knows them by name -• She shared the story of Joseph from Genesis 40-41 as an example of God's faithfulness even when it seems forgotten -• Care for others and willingness to get involved can become a means of one's own freedom -• God may have someone in a different situation or life than they are meant to be, but ultimately for their growth and purpose -• Focusing on the part of the promise that says we will be blessed is more productive than dwelling on difficulties -• Being aware of God working in others' lives can help shift focus from personal struggles to being a blessing to others -• God's delay sometimes serves a necessary purpose, allowing time for growth or understanding. -• Speculation about Joseph's release -• God's plan and purpose in delaying deliverance -• Remembering God's character (does not forget) and His knowledge of individuals' names -• Finding a purpose and hope through remembering God -• Jesus' teachings on being remembered by God and having a future with a sure hope -• Jesus' kingdom and heavenly kingdom -• God remembering people, not just their past actions or CVs -• Promises made to Abraham and his descendants -• God's knowledge and rule over all peoples and events -• Pharaoh's authority and power coming from people's belief in him as a god -• The Nile's regular ebb and flow is controlled by Ra and Pharaoh -• Pharaoh has a dream that Joseph interprets, revealing God's plan for Egypt -• Pharaoh is no longer in control of the future due to God's revelation -• The God of Israel controls plenty and famine, not Pharaoh or Ra -• Joseph declares his God owns the future, a claim at the foundation of biblical faith -• Similar scenarios repeat throughout history: Pharaohs refusing to obey God's people -• Jesus stands before Pilate and declares that Pilate has no power over him unless it is given from above -• The ultimate authority lies with God, who works through individuals to achieve His plans -• Joseph's life and actions demonstrate how God works through human participation to bless others -• God's plan for feeding a hungry world was implemented through Joseph's gifts of imagination and administration -• Human intelligence and discernment are not overridden by God's plans, but rather are invited to participate with Him -• The Bible teaches that we should love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, strength, and mind -• Joseph's godliness shines through in his resistance to temptation and faith while in prison -• The miraculous multiplication of loaves and fish can be compared to the policies of just and caring leaders. -• God is in control, and His gospel points to Jesus Christ as the person at the center of all history. -• Joseph's story in Genesis 40-41 parallels the story of Jesus Christ, who was challenged by the powers of this world and ultimately rose from the dead. -• As with Joseph, Jesus' exaltation and glory is recognized by Christians, and it is a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham. -• The hope, future, and blessing of the world lie in Jesus Christ. -• Faithfulness and God's covenant with humanity -• Remembering God's knowledge of our names and His presence in our lives -• The importance of living a life that reflects God's name, particularly through service to others -• Gratitude for the gospel message and its relevance to everyday life -• Prayer for peace, confidence, trust, and hope in chaotic times \ No newline at end of file diff --git "a/Joseph #4\342\200\224God Remembers (Sermon)_transcript.txt" "b/Joseph #4\342\200\224God Remembers (Sermon)_transcript.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 0ad0c7acf614c2c079f61b5ea474a061c2eb9cba..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Joseph #4\342\200\224God Remembers (Sermon)_transcript.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2236 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 13.12] So this morning we continue our study, our study, our series on the story of Joseph in the latter part of the book of Genesis. -[13.12 --> 23.94] This is the fourth installment. I hope you've been following along with the first three, but even if you haven't been able to, I'm sure that today's message will still make sense to you. -[23.94 --> 33.98] And the scripture reading this morning is from Genesis 40, and then also Genesis 41, but not the entire chapter. -[33.98 --> 40.68] So it's a fairly long reading this morning, but we've got to get the whole story, right? -[40.84 --> 43.78] So here goes, Genesis 40, beginning at verse 1. -[43.86 --> 50.82] We read that sometime later, that is after Joseph had been in prison because of Potiphar's wife, -[50.82 --> 57.64] Sometime later, the cupbearer and the baker of the king of Egypt offended their master, the king of Egypt. -[58.34 --> 62.82] Pharaoh was angry with his two officials, the chief cupbearer and the chief baker, -[63.46 --> 70.76] and put them in custody in the house of the captain of the guard in the same prison where Joseph was confined. -[71.76 --> 75.20] The captain of the guard assigned them to Joseph, and he attended them. -[75.20 --> 82.20] After they had been in custody for some time, each of the two men, the cupbearer and the baker of the king of Egypt, -[82.32 --> 85.82] who were being held in prison, had a dream the same night. -[86.52 --> 89.18] And each dream had a meaning of its own. -[90.24 --> 93.78] When Joseph came to them the next morning, he saw that they were dejected. -[94.34 --> 98.50] And so he asked Pharaoh's officials who were in custody with him in his master's house, -[98.50 --> 100.62] Why do you look so sad today? -[101.84 --> 105.66] We both had dreams, they answered, but there was no one to interpret them. -[106.58 --> 110.60] Then Joseph said to them, Do not interpretations belong to God? -[111.36 --> 112.34] Tell me your dreams. -[113.16 --> 115.42] So the chief cupbearer told Joseph his dream. -[115.50 --> 120.98] He said to him, In my dream I saw a vine in front of me, and on the vine were three branches. -[121.56 --> 126.40] As soon as it budded, it blossomed, and its clusters ripened into grapes. -[126.40 --> 131.94] It says, Pharaoh's cup was in my hand, and I took the grapes, squeezed them into Pharaoh's cup, -[132.06 --> 133.60] and put the cup in his hand. -[135.72 --> 137.78] This is what it means, Joseph said to him. -[138.44 --> 140.34] The three branches are three days. -[141.80 --> 146.98] Within three days, Pharaoh will lift up your head and restore you to your position, -[147.42 --> 153.58] and you will put Pharaoh's cup in his hand, just as you used to do when you were his cupbearer. -[153.58 --> 159.78] But when all goes well with you, remember me, and show me kindness. -[160.34 --> 162.90] Mention me to Pharaoh, and get me out of this prison. -[163.40 --> 167.20] I was forcibly carried off from the land of the Hebrews, and even here, -[167.56 --> 171.10] I have done nothing to deserve being put in a dungeon. -[171.10 --> 178.26] When the chief baker saw that Joseph had given a favorable interpretation, he said to Joseph, -[179.04 --> 180.10] I too had a dream. -[180.88 --> 183.28] On my head were three baskets of bread. -[184.14 --> 187.18] In the top basket were all kinds of baked goods for Pharaoh, -[187.46 --> 190.46] but the birds were eating them out of the basket on my head. -[190.46 --> 194.42] This is what it means, Joseph said. -[195.28 --> 197.22] The three baskets are three days. -[198.02 --> 204.50] Within three days, Pharaoh will lift off your head and impale your body on a pole, -[204.88 --> 208.00] and the birds will eat away your flesh. -[209.30 --> 213.28] Now the third day was Pharaoh's birthday, and he gave a feast for all his officials. -[213.64 --> 218.42] He lifted up the heads of the chief cupbearer and the chief baker in the presence of his officials. -[218.42 --> 221.50] He restored the chief cupbearer to his position, -[221.70 --> 224.64] so that he once again put the cup into Pharaoh's hand, -[224.86 --> 230.66] but he impaled the chief baker just as Joseph had said to them in his interpretation. -[231.74 --> 237.90] The chief cupbearer, however, did not remember Joseph. -[238.90 --> 241.02] He forgot him. -[243.88 --> 246.76] When two full years had passed, -[246.76 --> 250.00] Pharaoh had a dream. -[251.44 --> 252.66] He was standing by the Nile, -[252.76 --> 254.92] and out of the river there came up seven cows, -[255.08 --> 256.46] sleek and fat, -[256.66 --> 258.52] and they grazed among the reeds. -[259.16 --> 260.70] After them, seven other cows, -[260.92 --> 261.94] ugly and gaunt, -[262.04 --> 263.14] came up out of the Nile -[263.14 --> 265.32] and stood beside those on the riverbank. -[265.68 --> 268.24] And the cows that were ugly and gaunt -[268.24 --> 270.66] ate up the sleek, fat cows. -[271.66 --> 273.20] Then Pharaoh woke up. -[273.20 --> 276.40] He fell asleep again and had a second dream. -[276.76 --> 277.76] Seven heads of grain, -[277.90 --> 278.70] healthy and good, -[278.96 --> 280.44] were growing on a single stalk. -[280.88 --> 281.42] After them, -[281.56 --> 283.38] seven other heads of grain sprouted, -[283.60 --> 285.56] thin and scorched by the east wind. -[286.10 --> 288.78] The thin heads of grain swallowed up the seven healthy, -[289.02 --> 289.58] full heads. -[290.28 --> 291.60] Then Pharaoh woke up. -[292.28 --> 293.24] It had been a dream. -[294.30 --> 295.06] In the morning, -[295.46 --> 296.76] his mind was troubled. -[297.14 --> 300.14] So he sent for all the magicians and the wise men of Egypt. -[300.14 --> 301.86] Pharaoh told them his dreams, -[301.98 --> 303.74] but no one could interpret them for him. -[305.04 --> 306.86] Then the chief cupbearer said to Pharaoh, -[307.58 --> 311.44] Today I am reminded of my shortcomings. -[312.56 --> 314.56] Pharaoh was once angry with his servants, -[314.68 --> 316.34] and he imprisoned me and the chief baker -[316.34 --> 318.42] in the house of the captain of the guard. -[318.86 --> 321.04] Each of us had a dream the same night, -[321.26 --> 323.36] and each dream had a meaning of its own. -[324.02 --> 326.02] Now a young Hebrew was there with us, -[326.06 --> 327.74] a servant of the captain of the guard. -[327.74 --> 329.44] We told him our dreams, -[329.76 --> 331.30] and he interpreted them for us, -[331.68 --> 334.26] giving each man the interpretation of his dream, -[334.50 --> 338.02] and things turned out exactly as he interpreted them to us. -[338.78 --> 340.62] I was restored to my position, -[341.12 --> 343.10] and the other man was impaled. -[344.48 --> 346.38] So Pharaoh sent for Joseph, -[346.66 --> 348.48] and he was quickly brought from the dungeon. -[348.70 --> 350.60] When he had shaved and changed his clothes, -[350.78 --> 352.08] he came before Pharaoh. -[352.60 --> 353.92] Pharaoh said to Joseph, -[353.92 --> 355.26] I had a dream, -[355.78 --> 357.26] and no one can interpret it, -[357.68 --> 359.04] but I have heard it said of you -[359.04 --> 360.24] that when you hear a dream, -[360.48 --> 361.64] you can interpret it. -[362.58 --> 363.76] I cannot do it. -[364.50 --> 365.84] Joseph replied to Pharaoh, -[366.42 --> 368.08] I cannot do it, -[368.60 --> 370.70] but God will give Pharaoh -[370.70 --> 372.88] the answer he desires. -[373.84 --> 376.08] We're now moving on to verse 25 in the chapter. -[376.08 --> 377.78] Then Joseph said to Pharaoh, -[378.24 --> 380.90] The dreams of Pharaoh are one and the same. -[380.90 --> 382.88] God has revealed to Pharaoh -[382.88 --> 384.24] what he is about to do. -[385.04 --> 387.00] The seven good cows are seven years, -[387.32 --> 389.94] and the seven good heads of grain are seven years. -[390.32 --> 391.94] It is one and the same dream. -[392.76 --> 394.24] The seven lean, ugly cows -[394.24 --> 396.16] that came up afterward are seven years, -[396.42 --> 398.52] and so are the seven worthless heads of grain -[398.52 --> 399.80] scorched by the east wind. -[400.16 --> 402.34] They are seven years of famine. -[403.58 --> 405.50] It is just as I said to Pharaoh. -[405.94 --> 407.32] God has shown Pharaoh -[407.32 --> 408.88] what he is about to do. -[408.88 --> 411.32] Seven years of great abundance -[411.32 --> 413.26] are coming throughout the land of Egypt, -[413.68 --> 415.46] but seven years of famine -[415.46 --> 416.40] will follow them. -[417.28 --> 418.98] Then all the abundance in Egypt -[418.98 --> 420.18] will be forgotten, -[420.54 --> 422.58] and the famine will ravage the land. -[422.88 --> 423.98] The abundance in the land -[423.98 --> 425.08] will not be remembered -[425.08 --> 426.96] because the famine that follows it -[426.96 --> 428.10] will be so severe. -[429.02 --> 431.06] The reason the dream was given to Pharaoh -[431.06 --> 432.08] in two forms -[432.08 --> 432.94] is that the matter -[432.94 --> 435.26] has been firmly decided by God, -[435.52 --> 438.16] and God will do it soon. -[438.88 --> 442.26] And now let Pharaoh look for a discerning -[442.26 --> 443.28] and wise man -[443.28 --> 445.52] and put him in charge of the land of Egypt. -[445.78 --> 448.40] Let Pharaoh appoint commissioners over the land -[448.40 --> 450.58] to take a fifth of the harvest of Egypt -[450.58 --> 452.62] during the seven years of abundance. -[453.16 --> 454.86] They should collect all the food -[454.86 --> 456.36] of these good years that are coming, -[456.78 --> 459.18] store up the grain under the authority of Pharaoh -[459.18 --> 461.58] to be kept in the cities for food. -[462.06 --> 464.38] This food should be held in reserve -[464.38 --> 465.12] for the country -[465.12 --> 467.66] to be used during the seven years of famine -[467.66 --> 469.26] that will come upon Egypt -[469.26 --> 470.70] so that the country -[470.70 --> 473.18] may not be ruined by the famine. -[474.40 --> 476.46] The plan seemed good to Pharaoh -[476.46 --> 478.12] and to all his officials. -[478.84 --> 480.24] So Pharaoh asked him, -[480.80 --> 483.24] Can we find anyone like this man, -[483.72 --> 485.52] one in whom is the Spirit of God? -[485.52 --> 488.26] Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, -[488.90 --> 491.04] Since God has made all this known to you, -[491.28 --> 494.56] there is no one so discerning and wise as you. -[494.70 --> 496.56] You shall be in charge of my palace, -[496.72 --> 499.88] and all my people are to submit to your orders. -[500.42 --> 502.26] Only with respect to the throne -[502.26 --> 505.26] will I be greater than you. -[505.84 --> 507.88] This is the word of the Lord. -[507.88 --> 515.34] It is those devastating, -[515.86 --> 518.56] crushing three words -[518.56 --> 521.54] that come at the end of chapter 40. -[522.94 --> 524.60] He forgot him. -[525.60 --> 527.56] That remind me of a story -[527.56 --> 529.34] about an experience which, -[529.52 --> 531.00] if it has ever happened to you, -[531.88 --> 534.24] you are not likely ever to forget. -[534.24 --> 538.12] It happened to an older colleague of mine, -[538.84 --> 540.34] Tony DeJager, now deceased, -[540.88 --> 542.62] back in the 1960s -[542.62 --> 545.42] while he was a pastor in Sarnia, Ontario, -[546.06 --> 547.58] on a hot summer day. -[548.38 --> 551.16] He decided to give his wife a break -[551.16 --> 552.62] and take their six sons, -[553.18 --> 555.72] ages 2 to 14, to the beach. -[556.80 --> 558.52] Loading them in a station wagon -[558.52 --> 560.06] together with some friends, -[560.14 --> 561.38] they made lots of noise, -[561.64 --> 562.82] they had lots of fun, -[562.82 --> 564.18] and hours later, -[564.50 --> 565.58] they drove home again, -[565.88 --> 567.14] and they got about halfway -[567.14 --> 568.64] when one of his boys -[568.64 --> 570.42] shouted above all the noise, -[570.82 --> 572.90] hey, dad, where's Ted? -[575.70 --> 577.46] Instant panic. -[578.44 --> 580.96] The youngest son had been forgotten. -[581.78 --> 582.88] Left at the beach, -[583.46 --> 585.34] dad made a screeching U-turn, -[585.72 --> 587.62] ignored all posted speed limits -[587.62 --> 589.44] and stop signs where possible, -[589.82 --> 591.76] arrived breathless at the beach. -[592.82 --> 593.86] And there was Ted, -[594.96 --> 596.26] still sitting, playing, -[596.46 --> 598.60] at the same spot they had left him. -[599.28 --> 600.68] He'd never even noticed -[600.68 --> 602.14] his family's absence. -[605.02 --> 607.16] If that happened to you as a parent, -[608.16 --> 611.00] I doubt that you would have reacted -[611.00 --> 613.40] any differently than Ted's dad. -[613.40 --> 619.18] But suppose that when he discovered Ted missing, -[620.02 --> 621.56] he would have calmly said, -[622.88 --> 623.40] oh well, -[624.04 --> 625.38] no need to hurry. -[626.14 --> 627.54] I have five other sons. -[627.66 --> 628.92] What's one more or less? -[631.54 --> 632.52] Can you imagine? -[632.52 --> 637.50] And yet, I think there are times -[637.50 --> 640.70] when we wonder if that is not -[640.70 --> 644.02] how our Heavenly Father feels about us. -[645.62 --> 646.56] Little Ted, -[646.78 --> 648.02] one among six, -[648.98 --> 650.92] did not realize he had been forgotten. -[650.92 --> 653.56] But haven't you, -[653.56 --> 656.20] one among seven billion plus -[656.20 --> 658.08] currently living on earth, -[658.46 --> 661.20] never mind the billions and billions more -[661.20 --> 663.34] who have lived and died in history, -[663.74 --> 665.26] each person unique, -[665.66 --> 668.00] each person with his or her own story, -[668.64 --> 671.40] haven't you ever felt forgotten -[671.40 --> 673.30] by God? -[673.30 --> 676.68] We tell each other -[676.68 --> 677.58] and we tell our kids -[677.58 --> 680.12] how important it is to know God. -[680.92 --> 682.94] But in the final analysis, -[683.22 --> 685.96] is it not this that really matters, -[686.46 --> 688.92] that God knows my name, -[689.96 --> 691.42] that God remembers, -[691.88 --> 694.42] God cares about me? -[697.30 --> 698.68] There is an old saying -[698.68 --> 701.28] that everybody dies twice. -[701.28 --> 704.62] First, we die physically -[704.62 --> 706.40] and they bury us into the ground -[706.40 --> 708.18] or they cremate our remains, -[708.30 --> 708.52] whatever. -[710.10 --> 711.68] We die a second time -[711.68 --> 714.38] when the last relative or friend -[714.38 --> 715.88] who can recall us -[715.88 --> 717.20] passes away. -[718.36 --> 720.46] And then the memory of us -[720.46 --> 722.48] is buried too. -[723.94 --> 726.58] Then in the words of Psalm 103, -[727.12 --> 728.52] we become like grass, -[728.82 --> 730.30] like a flower of the field, -[730.30 --> 732.14] the wind blows over it -[732.14 --> 733.28] and its place -[733.28 --> 735.84] remembers it no more. -[738.22 --> 739.34] And it's true. -[741.48 --> 745.38] So, unless God remembers me, -[746.34 --> 748.28] what hope do I have, -[748.36 --> 749.88] do you have for the future? -[751.14 --> 752.48] And without such hope, -[752.64 --> 754.10] what meaning or purpose -[754.10 --> 756.92] is there to your life? -[756.92 --> 762.52] The gospel of Genesis 40 and 41, -[762.74 --> 763.10] however, -[763.46 --> 765.76] is that God does remember. -[767.76 --> 770.18] God remembers his promise -[770.18 --> 772.46] to bless Abraham and his descendants -[772.46 --> 775.04] and thereby assures me -[775.04 --> 777.10] that he knows my name. -[778.70 --> 780.62] God remembers his promise -[780.62 --> 782.28] to bless all people -[782.28 --> 784.30] through Abraham and his descendants -[784.30 --> 786.30] and thereby assures me -[786.30 --> 787.84] that he knows and rules -[787.84 --> 790.68] all peoples and events. -[792.76 --> 794.84] He remembers first his promise -[794.84 --> 797.16] to bless Abraham and his descendants -[797.16 --> 798.54] and this in spite -[798.54 --> 801.00] all evidence to the contrary. -[801.72 --> 804.34] Joseph could tell you about that. -[804.34 --> 808.42] When we left off his story last week, -[808.68 --> 810.00] he'd been falsely accused -[810.00 --> 811.10] of attempted rape -[811.10 --> 812.58] and been thrown into prison. -[813.66 --> 814.96] But just as Joseph -[814.96 --> 816.00] had found himself -[816.00 --> 817.10] stripped of his clothes -[817.10 --> 818.24] for a second time, -[818.54 --> 820.42] the victim of other people's spite, -[820.86 --> 822.54] so for a second time, -[822.80 --> 825.44] because the Lord was with Joseph, -[826.44 --> 829.12] he prospered again -[829.12 --> 831.22] in difficult circumstances. -[831.22 --> 833.32] Before you know it, -[833.38 --> 834.76] the warden entrusts Joseph -[834.76 --> 836.22] with running the whole prison, -[836.60 --> 839.08] just as Potiphar had entrusted Joseph -[839.08 --> 841.04] with running his whole household. -[841.82 --> 842.68] But of course, -[843.22 --> 844.68] it is still prison. -[846.18 --> 847.46] Then one day, -[848.16 --> 849.28] it so happens. -[850.34 --> 851.88] A ridiculous term I know -[851.88 --> 854.02] in a story where nothing so happens. -[854.72 --> 856.26] But it so happens -[856.26 --> 857.76] that the pharaohs, -[857.94 --> 858.96] butler and baker, -[858.96 --> 860.40] for no reason given, -[861.30 --> 862.40] join him in prison, -[863.12 --> 864.52] and the captain of the guard, -[865.18 --> 866.76] our old friend Potiphar, -[868.06 --> 870.62] assigns their care to Joseph. -[871.88 --> 873.30] And before you know it, -[873.40 --> 874.46] Joseph finds himself -[874.46 --> 876.22] in the dream business again. -[877.36 --> 878.70] Both butler and baker -[878.70 --> 879.94] have a similar dream -[879.94 --> 881.34] at the same night, -[881.70 --> 883.10] and Joseph, with God's help, -[883.26 --> 883.98] interprets them. -[884.78 --> 886.16] And it's almost funny, -[886.16 --> 887.56] if it weren't so sad, -[887.94 --> 889.06] because both dreams -[889.06 --> 890.32] involve the expression -[890.32 --> 891.72] lifting your head. -[892.88 --> 893.46] Your head, -[893.66 --> 895.40] Joseph says to the cupbearer, -[895.56 --> 896.70] will be lifted up. -[896.80 --> 897.30] That is, -[897.52 --> 898.60] you will be restored -[898.60 --> 899.52] to your position, -[899.82 --> 900.70] but your head, -[901.04 --> 902.26] says Joseph to the baker, -[902.50 --> 904.42] will be lifted off. -[905.42 --> 906.36] That is, -[906.72 --> 908.68] you will be executed. -[908.68 --> 911.28] Wow. -[912.06 --> 913.42] You may wonder -[913.42 --> 914.36] if Joseph -[914.36 --> 916.06] could not have sugar-coated -[916.06 --> 916.78] that message -[916.78 --> 917.92] to the baker -[917.92 --> 919.30] just a little bit. -[921.70 --> 922.80] But remember -[922.80 --> 924.02] that Joseph's hopes -[924.02 --> 924.98] were now riding -[924.98 --> 926.50] on the cupbearer. -[926.80 --> 927.92] Had he lied, -[928.28 --> 929.44] just to be kind, -[929.76 --> 930.60] the cupbearer -[930.60 --> 931.86] would not have been convinced -[931.86 --> 932.72] of his ability -[932.72 --> 933.94] to interpret dreams. -[934.38 --> 935.98] He would have seen Joseph -[935.98 --> 937.20] as a well-meaning guy -[937.20 --> 938.20] who flipped the coin -[938.20 --> 939.84] and got one right -[939.84 --> 940.68] and one wrong. -[942.20 --> 943.20] Honesty and integrity -[943.76 --> 945.48] in revealing God's meaning, -[945.76 --> 946.20] however painful, -[947.06 --> 947.94] were required -[947.94 --> 949.20] to convince the cupbearer -[949.86 --> 950.62] that Joseph -[950.62 --> 951.80] was the real deal -[951.80 --> 953.42] and worth a recommendation -[953.42 --> 954.16] to Pharaoh -[954.16 --> 955.64] because you don't -[955.64 --> 956.82] mess with Pharaoh, -[956.98 --> 957.36] you know. -[958.26 --> 959.28] Not when he's got -[959.28 --> 960.98] your life in his hands. -[960.98 --> 963.86] And he does -[963.86 --> 965.80] because when Pharaoh -[965.80 --> 967.14] celebrates his birthday -[967.14 --> 967.98] three days later -[967.98 --> 968.90] and throws a party -[968.90 --> 970.20] for all of his officials, -[970.76 --> 971.58] what happens? -[971.72 --> 972.54] Both cupbearer -[972.54 --> 973.04] and baker -[973.04 --> 973.80] are invited -[973.80 --> 974.86] and we read -[974.86 --> 976.06] he lifted up -[976.06 --> 976.50] the heads -[976.50 --> 977.80] of the chief cupbearer -[977.80 --> 979.12] and the chief baker. -[979.46 --> 980.04] That is, -[980.10 --> 981.44] he restored the butler -[981.44 --> 983.04] but beheaded -[983.04 --> 984.26] the baker. -[984.26 --> 986.96] And surely -[986.96 --> 987.88] the cupbearer -[987.88 --> 988.82] in his relief -[988.82 --> 989.46] and joy -[989.46 --> 990.40] would remember -[990.40 --> 991.40] Joseph's plea -[991.40 --> 992.58] to remember him -[992.58 --> 993.98] and tell Pharaoh -[993.98 --> 995.40] about this amazing -[995.40 --> 996.02] young man -[996.02 --> 996.94] he had met -[996.94 --> 997.54] in prison. -[998.90 --> 999.86] But no. -[1001.08 --> 1001.54] Instead, -[1001.76 --> 1002.16] you read -[1002.16 --> 1002.92] those last -[1002.92 --> 1004.46] awful words -[1004.46 --> 1005.70] of chapter 40. -[1006.84 --> 1008.08] The chief cupbearer, -[1008.14 --> 1008.54] however, -[1009.14 --> 1010.16] did not remember -[1010.16 --> 1010.56] Joseph. -[1011.72 --> 1012.68] He forgot him. -[1014.26 --> 1018.02] Think about the pain -[1018.02 --> 1020.24] in those three words. -[1021.34 --> 1022.50] He forgot him. -[1024.72 --> 1026.70] Joseph was 17 years old -[1026.70 --> 1028.06] when his brother -[1028.06 --> 1029.40] sold him into slavery. -[1030.50 --> 1031.18] 17. -[1032.78 --> 1034.74] And most of the 11 years -[1034.74 --> 1035.16] since, -[1035.30 --> 1036.72] 11 years of his -[1036.72 --> 1037.78] precious youth -[1037.78 --> 1039.34] had been lost -[1039.34 --> 1040.40] in prison. -[1041.90 --> 1043.32] Imagine the crushing -[1043.32 --> 1044.10] disappointment -[1044.10 --> 1045.10] he must have felt -[1045.10 --> 1045.84] most strongly -[1045.84 --> 1047.36] after the cupbearer's -[1047.36 --> 1047.80] release. -[1048.18 --> 1048.50] Here, -[1048.80 --> 1049.28] finally, -[1049.60 --> 1050.22] was a ray -[1050.22 --> 1050.98] of hope. -[1052.54 --> 1054.04] But the cupbearer -[1054.04 --> 1055.22] forgot him. -[1056.20 --> 1057.20] Joseph hears -[1057.20 --> 1058.34] nothing. -[1058.92 --> 1059.84] Not a card. -[1060.18 --> 1061.02] Not a visit -[1061.02 --> 1061.98] for two -[1061.98 --> 1063.18] whole years. -[1063.18 --> 1066.60] is it hard -[1066.60 --> 1067.24] to imagine -[1067.24 --> 1068.34] that there were -[1068.34 --> 1068.74] days, -[1068.86 --> 1069.46] maybe weeks -[1069.46 --> 1070.22] and months -[1070.22 --> 1070.78] when Joseph -[1070.78 --> 1071.30] wondered -[1071.30 --> 1073.08] whether God -[1073.08 --> 1074.28] had simply -[1074.28 --> 1075.04] forgotten him. -[1077.92 --> 1078.48] Forgotten. -[1079.82 --> 1080.66] Haven't you ever -[1080.66 --> 1081.08] been there? -[1082.48 --> 1083.54] It can happen -[1083.54 --> 1084.82] that there are -[1084.82 --> 1085.68] times and seasons -[1085.68 --> 1086.54] in your life -[1086.54 --> 1087.24] when you feel -[1087.24 --> 1088.10] as though the whole -[1088.10 --> 1089.10] world is lined up -[1089.10 --> 1089.78] against you, -[1090.04 --> 1090.94] as though you are -[1090.94 --> 1091.64] all alone -[1091.64 --> 1092.84] where you call -[1092.84 --> 1094.22] out and nobody -[1094.22 --> 1095.06] answers. -[1096.64 --> 1097.84] It can happen -[1097.84 --> 1099.22] when you stand -[1099.22 --> 1100.02] at a graveside -[1100.02 --> 1100.52] of someone -[1100.52 --> 1101.22] you loved -[1101.22 --> 1103.08] or in the middle -[1103.08 --> 1103.58] of the night -[1103.58 --> 1104.66] while lying -[1104.66 --> 1105.70] in a hospital bed -[1105.70 --> 1107.00] or when you're -[1107.00 --> 1107.42] struggling -[1107.42 --> 1108.68] with depression. -[1109.38 --> 1110.24] The world -[1110.24 --> 1110.86] goes on -[1110.86 --> 1111.76] but you are -[1111.76 --> 1112.80] mired in pain. -[1113.92 --> 1114.54] Other people's -[1114.54 --> 1115.38] prayers are answered -[1115.38 --> 1116.70] but heaven seems -[1116.70 --> 1117.76] deaf to your pleading. -[1117.76 --> 1119.30] Other people -[1119.30 --> 1119.84] talk about -[1119.84 --> 1120.96] wonderful experiences -[1120.96 --> 1121.68] of God's -[1121.68 --> 1122.16] blessing -[1122.16 --> 1123.00] and God's -[1123.00 --> 1123.44] care -[1123.44 --> 1126.12] while you wonder -[1126.12 --> 1126.86] what in the world -[1126.86 --> 1127.84] God is doing -[1127.84 --> 1129.16] in your life. -[1130.46 --> 1131.44] It can happen -[1131.44 --> 1132.34] in lots of ways -[1132.34 --> 1133.88] and lots of times. -[1134.96 --> 1136.24] I'm just -[1136.24 --> 1137.68] forgotten. -[1140.96 --> 1141.64] Forgotten. -[1142.00 --> 1142.52] That's -[1142.52 --> 1143.60] Joseph's story. -[1143.60 --> 1145.24] for two -[1145.24 --> 1146.00] whole -[1146.00 --> 1146.90] silent -[1146.90 --> 1147.76] years -[1147.76 --> 1151.00] and then -[1151.00 --> 1152.32] one day -[1152.32 --> 1153.96] the silence -[1153.96 --> 1155.36] is broken. -[1156.64 --> 1157.18] Pharaoh's -[1157.18 --> 1157.62] court -[1157.62 --> 1158.46] is in a -[1158.46 --> 1158.96] frenzy. -[1160.08 --> 1160.64] Pharaoh has -[1160.64 --> 1161.38] had dreams -[1161.38 --> 1161.98] disturbing -[1161.98 --> 1162.56] dreams -[1162.56 --> 1163.74] like Joseph's -[1163.74 --> 1164.04] dreams -[1164.04 --> 1164.52] like those -[1164.52 --> 1164.80] of the -[1164.80 --> 1165.30] cup bearer -[1165.30 --> 1165.58] and the -[1165.58 --> 1165.84] baker -[1165.84 --> 1166.58] not some -[1166.58 --> 1166.90] hazy -[1166.90 --> 1167.32] nonsense -[1167.32 --> 1168.12] between sleep -[1168.12 --> 1168.56] and waking -[1168.56 --> 1169.22] who knows -[1169.22 --> 1169.54] what it -[1169.54 --> 1169.84] means. -[1169.84 --> 1170.62] this -[1170.62 --> 1171.06] Pharaoh -[1171.06 --> 1171.98] instinctively -[1171.98 --> 1172.28] knew -[1172.28 --> 1172.90] was the -[1172.90 --> 1173.48] real thing. -[1173.60 --> 1173.90] This was -[1173.90 --> 1174.20] something -[1174.20 --> 1174.56] more -[1174.56 --> 1175.22] something -[1175.22 --> 1175.58] from -[1175.58 --> 1176.10] beyond -[1176.10 --> 1177.32] but none -[1177.32 --> 1177.58] of his -[1177.58 --> 1178.18] magicians -[1178.18 --> 1178.76] none of -[1178.76 --> 1179.22] his wise -[1179.22 --> 1179.54] men -[1179.54 --> 1180.38] had a -[1180.38 --> 1180.64] clue. -[1182.20 --> 1182.28] And -[1182.28 --> 1182.72] then -[1182.72 --> 1183.44] the -[1183.44 --> 1183.72] chief -[1183.72 --> 1184.10] cup -[1184.10 --> 1184.92] bearer -[1184.92 --> 1185.56] remembered -[1185.56 --> 1187.42] and -[1187.42 --> 1187.92] God -[1187.92 --> 1189.02] remembered. -[1189.98 --> 1190.46] Joseph -[1190.46 --> 1191.00] is down -[1191.00 --> 1191.48] 10-0 -[1191.48 --> 1192.16] at the -[1192.16 --> 1192.42] second -[1192.42 --> 1193.02] intermission -[1193.02 --> 1193.66] and it's -[1193.66 --> 1193.96] comeback -[1193.96 --> 1194.46] time. -[1194.98 --> 1195.14] One -[1195.14 --> 1195.44] little -[1195.44 --> 1195.88] cog -[1195.88 --> 1196.18] in the -[1196.18 --> 1196.38] wheel -[1196.38 --> 1196.56] of -[1196.56 --> 1197.04] providence -[1197.04 --> 1197.44] connects -[1197.44 --> 1197.90] with -[1197.90 --> 1198.22] another -[1198.22 --> 1198.68] and the -[1198.68 --> 1198.96] gears -[1198.96 --> 1199.56] of God's -[1199.56 --> 1199.94] purposes -[1199.94 --> 1200.50] move -[1200.50 --> 1200.96] forward. -[1202.00 --> 1202.24] Joseph -[1202.24 --> 1202.52] gets -[1202.52 --> 1202.88] hauled -[1202.88 --> 1203.00] out -[1203.00 --> 1203.12] of -[1203.12 --> 1203.36] prison -[1203.36 --> 1203.58] to -[1203.58 --> 1203.92] stand -[1203.92 --> 1204.28] before -[1204.28 --> 1204.48] the -[1204.48 --> 1204.80] Pharaoh -[1204.80 --> 1205.44] and he -[1205.44 --> 1205.76] comes -[1205.76 --> 1206.04] through -[1206.04 --> 1206.42] again. -[1207.42 --> 1207.52] He -[1207.52 --> 1208.18] acknowledges -[1208.18 --> 1208.56] God -[1208.56 --> 1208.92] as the -[1208.92 --> 1209.20] source -[1209.20 --> 1209.50] of the -[1209.50 --> 1209.94] dreams -[1209.94 --> 1210.70] then he -[1210.70 --> 1211.12] tells it -[1211.12 --> 1211.46] like it -[1211.46 --> 1211.70] is. -[1212.02 --> 1212.30] Seven -[1212.30 --> 1212.64] years -[1212.64 --> 1212.84] of -[1212.84 --> 1213.44] incredible -[1213.44 --> 1214.04] abundance -[1214.04 --> 1214.40] followed -[1214.40 --> 1215.04] by seven -[1215.04 --> 1215.50] years -[1215.50 --> 1216.54] of equally -[1216.54 --> 1217.22] incredible -[1217.22 --> 1217.94] famine. -[1218.82 --> 1218.92] And -[1218.92 --> 1219.44] before you -[1219.44 --> 1219.82] know it -[1219.82 --> 1220.44] Joseph's -[1220.44 --> 1220.66] head -[1220.66 --> 1221.40] is lifted -[1221.40 --> 1221.74] up. -[1222.42 --> 1222.58] As -[1222.58 --> 1222.86] quickly -[1222.86 --> 1223.20] as he -[1223.20 --> 1223.70] was buried -[1223.70 --> 1224.24] in prison -[1224.24 --> 1225.36] by Potiphar -[1225.36 --> 1225.88] Joseph -[1225.88 --> 1226.50] has raised -[1226.50 --> 1226.80] a new -[1226.80 --> 1227.10] life -[1227.10 --> 1227.66] in the -[1227.66 --> 1227.88] kingdom -[1227.88 --> 1228.48] of Egypt -[1228.48 --> 1229.58] second in -[1229.58 --> 1229.96] power -[1229.96 --> 1230.66] only to -[1230.66 --> 1231.00] Pharaoh -[1231.00 --> 1232.02] given a -[1232.02 --> 1232.30] wife -[1232.30 --> 1232.86] who bears -[1232.86 --> 1233.06] him -[1233.06 --> 1233.52] children -[1233.52 --> 1234.28] blessed -[1234.28 --> 1234.76] beyond -[1234.76 --> 1235.26] measure -[1235.26 --> 1236.16] because -[1236.16 --> 1236.94] finally -[1236.94 --> 1237.62] the cup -[1237.62 --> 1238.02] bearer -[1238.02 --> 1238.70] remembered -[1238.70 --> 1239.08] him. -[1240.08 --> 1240.96] No. -[1241.96 --> 1242.80] No. -[1243.80 --> 1244.20] Because -[1244.20 --> 1244.76] God -[1244.76 --> 1245.90] had never -[1245.90 --> 1246.48] forgotten -[1246.48 --> 1247.12] Joseph. -[1248.12 --> 1248.68] God -[1248.68 --> 1249.18] remembered -[1249.18 --> 1249.64] Joseph -[1249.64 --> 1250.32] even when -[1250.32 --> 1251.16] all others -[1251.16 --> 1252.26] had forgotten. -[1252.26 --> 1253.64] God -[1253.64 --> 1253.88] remembers -[1253.88 --> 1254.64] God -[1254.64 --> 1254.94] remembers -[1254.94 --> 1255.80] God -[1255.80 --> 1256.80] remembers -[1256.80 --> 1257.72] God -[1257.72 --> 1259.74] remembers -[1259.74 --> 1261.70] us. -[1261.70 --> 1263.88] God -[1263.88 --> 1264.80] remembers -[1264.80 --> 1266.52] and -[1266.52 --> 1266.86] throughout -[1266.86 --> 1267.42] the Old -[1267.42 --> 1267.86] Testament -[1267.86 --> 1268.70] this fact -[1268.70 --> 1269.10] is a -[1269.10 --> 1269.66] consistent -[1269.66 --> 1270.24] source -[1270.24 --> 1271.06] of deep -[1271.06 --> 1271.56] comfort -[1271.56 --> 1272.08] and -[1272.08 --> 1272.74] thanksgiving. -[1274.30 --> 1274.62] God -[1274.62 --> 1275.20] remembers -[1275.20 --> 1275.64] us. -[1276.12 --> 1276.32] God -[1276.32 --> 1276.86] remembers -[1276.86 --> 1277.28] that we -[1277.28 --> 1277.78] are but -[1277.78 --> 1278.38] dust. -[1278.94 --> 1279.14] God -[1279.14 --> 1279.66] remembers -[1279.66 --> 1280.32] his promise -[1280.32 --> 1280.90] to Abraham -[1280.90 --> 1281.42] and his -[1281.42 --> 1281.94] descendants. -[1282.56 --> 1282.84] Hundreds -[1282.84 --> 1283.50] of years -[1283.50 --> 1284.06] after -[1284.06 --> 1284.54] Joseph -[1284.54 --> 1285.00] when -[1285.00 --> 1285.32] Egypt -[1285.32 --> 1285.70] gets -[1285.70 --> 1286.06] a new -[1286.06 --> 1286.34] king -[1286.34 --> 1286.70] who -[1286.70 --> 1287.20] doesn't -[1287.20 --> 1287.60] know -[1287.60 --> 1288.08] Joseph -[1288.08 --> 1288.62] and -[1288.62 --> 1289.02] Israel -[1289.02 --> 1289.50] finds -[1289.50 --> 1289.86] herself -[1289.86 --> 1290.06] in -[1290.06 --> 1290.50] hopeless -[1290.50 --> 1291.04] slavery -[1291.04 --> 1291.48] in -[1291.48 --> 1291.86] Egypt -[1291.86 --> 1292.58] Moses -[1292.58 --> 1293.04] writes -[1293.04 --> 1293.38] these -[1293.38 --> 1293.76] words -[1293.76 --> 1294.44] God -[1294.44 --> 1295.02] heard -[1295.02 --> 1295.24] their -[1295.24 --> 1295.74] groaning -[1295.74 --> 1296.26] and -[1296.26 --> 1296.46] he -[1296.46 --> 1297.20] remembered -[1297.20 --> 1297.60] his -[1297.60 --> 1298.14] covenant -[1298.14 --> 1298.98] with -[1298.98 --> 1299.50] Abraham -[1299.50 --> 1300.20] with -[1300.20 --> 1300.78] Isaac -[1300.78 --> 1301.32] and -[1301.32 --> 1301.54] with -[1301.54 --> 1301.94] Jacob -[1301.94 --> 1303.42] and -[1303.42 --> 1303.94] God's -[1303.94 --> 1304.46] remembering -[1304.46 --> 1304.94] gives -[1304.94 --> 1305.26] new -[1305.26 --> 1305.70] hope -[1305.70 --> 1306.44] and -[1306.44 --> 1306.64] new -[1306.64 --> 1307.08] future. -[1308.12 --> 1308.48] Later -[1308.48 --> 1308.80] in the -[1308.80 --> 1308.96] Old -[1308.96 --> 1309.34] Testament -[1309.34 --> 1309.62] when -[1309.62 --> 1309.98] God's -[1309.98 --> 1310.14] Old -[1310.14 --> 1310.48] Testament -[1310.48 --> 1310.92] people -[1310.92 --> 1311.40] are -[1311.40 --> 1311.62] in -[1311.62 --> 1312.08] exile -[1312.08 --> 1312.32] and -[1312.32 --> 1312.70] slavery -[1312.70 --> 1312.94] in -[1312.94 --> 1313.22] another -[1313.22 --> 1313.80] empire -[1313.80 --> 1314.50] Babylon -[1314.50 --> 1314.88] they -[1314.88 --> 1315.24] said -[1315.24 --> 1315.68] the -[1315.68 --> 1315.98] Lord -[1315.98 --> 1316.24] has -[1316.24 --> 1316.80] forsaken -[1316.80 --> 1317.08] me -[1317.08 --> 1317.90] the -[1317.90 --> 1318.18] Lord -[1318.18 --> 1318.46] has -[1318.46 --> 1319.02] forgotten -[1319.02 --> 1319.48] me -[1319.48 --> 1321.38] but -[1321.38 --> 1321.56] the -[1321.56 --> 1321.92] prophet -[1321.92 --> 1322.36] Isaiah -[1322.36 --> 1322.80] speaking -[1322.80 --> 1323.04] on -[1323.04 --> 1323.44] behalf -[1323.44 --> 1323.64] of -[1323.64 --> 1323.96] God -[1323.96 --> 1324.48] asked -[1324.48 --> 1324.68] the -[1324.68 --> 1325.04] question -[1325.04 --> 1325.56] can -[1325.56 --> 1325.78] a -[1325.78 --> 1326.00] mother -[1326.00 --> 1326.44] forget -[1326.44 --> 1326.68] the -[1326.68 --> 1327.02] baby -[1327.02 --> 1327.48] at -[1327.48 --> 1327.66] her -[1327.66 --> 1328.04] breast -[1328.04 --> 1328.24] and -[1328.24 --> 1328.48] have -[1328.48 --> 1328.78] no -[1328.78 --> 1329.48] compassion -[1329.48 --> 1329.98] on -[1329.98 --> 1330.14] the -[1330.14 --> 1330.54] child -[1330.54 --> 1330.72] she -[1330.72 --> 1330.92] has -[1330.92 --> 1331.28] born -[1331.28 --> 1332.76] and -[1332.76 --> 1332.96] of -[1332.96 --> 1333.26] course -[1333.26 --> 1333.46] a -[1333.46 --> 1333.82] normal -[1333.82 --> 1334.12] mother -[1334.12 --> 1334.50] never -[1334.50 --> 1334.80] would -[1334.80 --> 1336.18] even -[1336.18 --> 1336.42] though -[1336.42 --> 1336.74] mothers -[1336.74 --> 1337.18] are not -[1337.18 --> 1337.60] perfect -[1337.60 --> 1338.16] anymore -[1338.16 --> 1338.76] than -[1338.76 --> 1339.40] fathers who -[1339.40 --> 1339.76] leave their -[1339.76 --> 1340.04] youngest -[1340.04 --> 1340.38] alone -[1340.38 --> 1340.76] on a -[1340.76 --> 1341.06] beach -[1341.06 --> 1341.98] any more -[1341.98 --> 1342.48] than our -[1342.48 --> 1342.90] children -[1342.90 --> 1344.08] it is impossible -[1344.08 --> 1345.10] to imagine -[1345.10 --> 1346.02] a normal -[1346.02 --> 1346.42] mother -[1346.42 --> 1347.40] forgetting the -[1347.40 --> 1348.06] face of the -[1348.06 --> 1348.46] one she -[1348.46 --> 1348.96] carried -[1348.96 --> 1350.12] and birthed -[1350.12 --> 1350.98] and nursed -[1350.98 --> 1351.76] forget -[1351.76 --> 1352.74] never -[1352.74 --> 1356.46] sadly -[1356.46 --> 1356.48] sadly -[1356.48 --> 1356.92] however -[1356.92 --> 1357.30] as -[1357.30 --> 1357.56] God -[1357.56 --> 1358.04] admits -[1358.04 --> 1359.12] though -[1359.12 --> 1359.44] she -[1359.44 --> 1359.70] may -[1359.70 --> 1360.18] forget -[1360.18 --> 1360.46] he -[1360.46 --> 1360.92] says -[1360.92 --> 1362.24] there -[1362.24 --> 1362.58] are -[1362.58 --> 1363.26] exceptions -[1363.26 --> 1364.08] some -[1364.08 --> 1364.38] thrown -[1364.38 --> 1364.86] through -[1364.86 --> 1365.40] no fault -[1365.40 --> 1365.68] of their -[1365.68 --> 1365.94] own -[1365.94 --> 1366.36] such as -[1366.36 --> 1366.64] mental -[1366.64 --> 1367.22] disease -[1367.22 --> 1367.92] others -[1367.92 --> 1368.36] because -[1368.36 --> 1368.56] of -[1368.56 --> 1368.90] sinful -[1368.90 --> 1369.42] neglect -[1369.42 --> 1370.12] but -[1370.12 --> 1370.86] though -[1370.86 --> 1371.22] she -[1371.22 --> 1371.54] may -[1371.54 --> 1372.04] forget -[1372.04 --> 1373.76] says -[1373.76 --> 1373.96] the -[1373.96 --> 1374.24] Lord -[1374.24 --> 1375.50] I -[1375.50 --> 1376.00] will -[1376.00 --> 1376.44] not -[1376.44 --> 1377.12] forget -[1377.12 --> 1378.24] you -[1378.24 --> 1381.60] see -[1381.60 --> 1382.12] I have -[1382.12 --> 1382.74] engraved -[1382.74 --> 1383.00] you -[1383.00 --> 1384.10] on the -[1384.10 --> 1384.52] palms -[1384.52 --> 1385.00] of my -[1385.00 --> 1385.46] hands -[1385.46 --> 1386.84] your -[1386.84 --> 1387.32] names -[1387.32 --> 1387.76] written -[1387.76 --> 1388.56] on God's -[1388.56 --> 1388.98] hands -[1388.98 --> 1389.80] not just -[1389.80 --> 1390.18] with a -[1390.18 --> 1390.48] pen -[1390.48 --> 1391.34] so that -[1391.34 --> 1391.52] they're -[1391.52 --> 1391.84] easily -[1391.84 --> 1392.26] rubbed -[1392.26 --> 1392.54] off -[1392.54 --> 1393.08] or washed -[1393.08 --> 1393.42] away -[1393.42 --> 1393.82] the first -[1393.82 --> 1394.16] time you -[1394.16 --> 1394.42] wash -[1394.42 --> 1394.96] your hands -[1394.96 --> 1395.82] but -[1395.82 --> 1396.70] engraved -[1396.70 --> 1397.52] carved -[1397.52 --> 1398.54] with a -[1398.54 --> 1398.96] knife -[1398.96 --> 1399.82] into -[1399.82 --> 1400.12] his -[1400.12 --> 1400.58] hand -[1400.58 --> 1401.60] a -[1401.60 --> 1402.22] permanent -[1402.22 --> 1403.04] mark -[1403.04 --> 1405.22] God -[1405.22 --> 1405.76] remembers -[1405.76 --> 1406.46] and it -[1406.46 --> 1406.78] is what -[1406.78 --> 1407.00] his -[1407.00 --> 1407.32] son -[1407.32 --> 1408.04] came to -[1408.04 --> 1408.50] tell us -[1408.50 --> 1408.72] too -[1408.72 --> 1409.30] Jesus -[1409.30 --> 1409.86] told us -[1409.86 --> 1410.38] to address -[1410.38 --> 1410.74] God -[1410.74 --> 1411.02] as -[1411.02 --> 1411.50] our -[1411.50 --> 1411.98] father -[1411.98 --> 1413.18] to -[1413.18 --> 1413.68] teach us -[1413.68 --> 1413.86] that -[1413.86 --> 1414.18] God -[1414.18 --> 1414.42] does -[1414.42 --> 1414.62] not -[1414.62 --> 1414.94] care -[1414.94 --> 1415.18] about -[1415.18 --> 1415.36] the -[1415.36 --> 1415.62] world -[1415.62 --> 1415.86] like -[1415.86 --> 1416.04] a -[1416.04 --> 1416.36] distant -[1416.36 --> 1416.84] CEO -[1416.84 --> 1417.26] might -[1417.26 --> 1417.52] care -[1417.52 --> 1417.74] about -[1417.74 --> 1417.92] the -[1417.92 --> 1418.44] company's -[1418.44 --> 1418.70] bottom -[1418.70 --> 1419.26] line -[1419.26 --> 1420.68] are -[1420.68 --> 1420.92] not -[1420.92 --> 1421.12] two -[1421.12 --> 1422.26] sparrows -[1422.26 --> 1422.60] sold -[1422.60 --> 1423.00] for a -[1423.00 --> 1423.24] penny -[1423.24 --> 1423.56] Jesus -[1423.56 --> 1423.92] once -[1423.92 --> 1424.32] asked -[1424.32 --> 1425.40] yet -[1425.40 --> 1425.60] not -[1425.60 --> 1425.94] one -[1425.94 --> 1426.04] of -[1426.04 --> 1426.16] them -[1426.16 --> 1426.34] will -[1426.34 --> 1426.58] fall -[1426.58 --> 1426.74] to -[1426.74 --> 1426.90] the -[1426.90 --> 1427.18] ground -[1427.18 --> 1427.46] without -[1427.46 --> 1427.78] your -[1427.78 --> 1428.18] father -[1428.18 --> 1428.78] or -[1428.78 --> 1429.14] apart -[1429.14 --> 1429.38] from -[1429.38 --> 1429.56] your -[1429.56 --> 1429.90] father -[1429.90 --> 1430.28] and -[1430.28 --> 1430.52] even -[1430.52 --> 1430.74] the -[1430.74 --> 1431.30] hairs -[1431.30 --> 1431.54] of -[1431.54 --> 1431.72] your -[1431.72 --> 1432.12] head -[1432.12 --> 1433.26] are -[1433.26 --> 1433.50] all -[1433.50 --> 1433.98] numbered -[1433.98 --> 1436.82] yes -[1436.82 --> 1437.28] sparrows -[1437.28 --> 1437.46] do -[1437.46 --> 1437.78] fall -[1437.78 --> 1438.02] and -[1438.02 --> 1438.56] sadly -[1438.56 --> 1438.94] so -[1438.94 --> 1439.12] do -[1439.12 --> 1439.28] the -[1439.28 --> 1439.50] hairs -[1439.50 --> 1439.68] of -[1439.68 --> 1439.82] our -[1439.82 --> 1440.12] head -[1440.12 --> 1441.14] some -[1441.14 --> 1441.30] of -[1441.30 --> 1441.50] ours -[1441.50 --> 1441.76] a lot -[1441.76 --> 1442.02] quicker -[1442.02 --> 1442.20] than -[1442.20 --> 1442.54] others -[1442.54 --> 1443.76] but -[1443.76 --> 1444.20] not -[1444.20 --> 1444.80] apart -[1444.80 --> 1445.20] from -[1445.20 --> 1445.40] the -[1445.40 --> 1445.78] father -[1445.78 --> 1447.06] not -[1447.06 --> 1447.46] apart -[1447.46 --> 1447.70] from -[1447.70 --> 1447.94] his -[1447.94 --> 1448.54] knowledge -[1448.54 --> 1449.42] says -[1449.42 --> 1449.86] Jesus -[1449.86 --> 1450.28] his -[1450.28 --> 1450.76] love -[1450.76 --> 1451.76] his -[1451.76 --> 1452.18] care -[1452.18 --> 1454.54] his -[1454.54 --> 1454.90] eye -[1454.90 --> 1455.08] is -[1455.08 --> 1455.26] on -[1455.26 --> 1455.44] the -[1455.44 --> 1455.90] sparrow -[1455.90 --> 1456.42] wrote -[1456.42 --> 1457.04] Sevilla -[1457.04 --> 1457.36] D. -[1457.48 --> 1457.76] Martin -[1457.76 --> 1458.06] in -[1458.06 --> 1458.92] 1905 -[1458.92 --> 1459.72] and -[1459.72 --> 1459.96] I -[1459.96 --> 1460.42] know -[1460.42 --> 1461.08] he -[1461.08 --> 1461.54] watches -[1461.54 --> 1461.92] me -[1461.92 --> 1463.52] she -[1463.52 --> 1463.76] wrote -[1463.76 --> 1463.96] those -[1463.96 --> 1464.26] words -[1464.26 --> 1464.56] after -[1464.56 --> 1465.00] visiting -[1465.00 --> 1465.52] friends -[1465.52 --> 1465.70] the -[1465.70 --> 1466.00] couple -[1466.00 --> 1467.00] the -[1467.00 --> 1467.24] wife -[1467.24 --> 1467.40] had -[1467.40 --> 1467.56] been -[1467.56 --> 1467.80] bread -[1467.80 --> 1468.04] ridden -[1468.04 --> 1468.24] for -[1468.24 --> 1468.56] 20 -[1468.56 --> 1468.86] years -[1468.86 --> 1469.04] the -[1469.04 --> 1469.32] husband -[1469.32 --> 1469.64] needed -[1469.64 --> 1469.84] a -[1469.84 --> 1470.14] wheelchair -[1470.14 --> 1470.42] to -[1470.42 --> 1470.62] get -[1470.62 --> 1470.94] around -[1470.94 --> 1471.26] both -[1471.26 --> 1471.40] of -[1471.40 --> 1471.56] them -[1471.56 --> 1471.68] in -[1471.68 --> 1471.84] a -[1471.84 --> 1472.18] sense -[1472.18 --> 1472.90] imprisoned -[1472.90 --> 1474.78] forgotten -[1474.78 --> 1476.90] but -[1476.90 --> 1477.22] both -[1477.22 --> 1477.46] lived -[1477.46 --> 1477.88] lives -[1477.88 --> 1478.10] of -[1478.10 --> 1478.42] faith -[1478.42 --> 1478.62] and -[1478.62 --> 1479.00] courage -[1479.00 --> 1479.20] that -[1479.20 --> 1479.44] brought -[1479.44 --> 1480.10] inspiration -[1480.10 --> 1480.34] and -[1480.34 --> 1480.66] comfort -[1480.66 --> 1480.88] to -[1480.88 --> 1481.16] all -[1481.16 --> 1481.36] who -[1481.36 --> 1481.56] knew -[1481.56 --> 1481.86] them -[1481.86 --> 1482.62] when -[1482.62 --> 1482.88] asked -[1482.88 --> 1483.04] the -[1483.04 --> 1483.32] secret -[1483.32 --> 1483.52] of -[1483.52 --> 1483.66] their -[1483.66 --> 1484.26] hopefulness -[1484.26 --> 1484.44] and -[1484.44 --> 1484.78] life -[1484.78 --> 1484.98] the -[1484.98 --> 1485.26] wife -[1485.26 --> 1485.52] gave -[1485.52 --> 1485.72] this -[1485.72 --> 1486.08] answer -[1486.08 --> 1486.30] that -[1486.30 --> 1486.70] Sevilla -[1486.70 --> 1487.12] turned -[1487.12 --> 1487.62] into -[1487.62 --> 1487.86] that -[1491.08 --> 1496.60] God -[1496.60 --> 1497.18] remembers -[1497.18 --> 1498.80] God -[1498.80 --> 1499.18] knows -[1499.18 --> 1499.48] my -[1499.48 --> 1499.80] name -[1499.80 --> 1501.08] this -[1501.08 --> 1501.24] is -[1501.24 --> 1501.40] the -[1501.40 --> 1501.64] good -[1501.64 --> 1501.96] news -[1501.96 --> 1502.16] of -[1502.16 --> 1502.58] Genesis -[1502.58 --> 1503.14] 40 -[1503.14 --> 1503.52] and -[1503.52 --> 1504.06] 41 -[1504.06 --> 1505.36] he -[1505.36 --> 1505.64] will -[1505.64 --> 1505.96] not -[1505.96 --> 1506.18] he -[1506.18 --> 1506.52] cannot -[1506.52 --> 1507.42] forget -[1507.42 --> 1508.62] you -[1508.62 --> 1510.30] and -[1510.30 --> 1510.48] when -[1510.48 --> 1510.64] you -[1510.64 --> 1511.00] find -[1511.00 --> 1511.16] it -[1511.16 --> 1511.46] hard -[1511.46 --> 1511.68] to -[1511.68 --> 1512.04] believe -[1512.04 --> 1512.30] that -[1512.30 --> 1512.48] to -[1512.48 --> 1512.74] keep -[1512.74 --> 1513.20] trusting -[1513.20 --> 1513.48] through -[1513.48 --> 1513.80] days -[1513.80 --> 1513.98] of -[1513.98 --> 1514.26] your -[1514.26 --> 1514.80] seeming -[1514.80 --> 1515.26] forgotten -[1515.26 --> 1516.18] let me -[1516.18 --> 1516.70] suggest -[1516.70 --> 1517.76] at least -[1517.76 --> 1518.20] a couple -[1518.20 --> 1518.42] of -[1518.42 --> 1518.82] things -[1518.82 --> 1519.54] we -[1519.54 --> 1519.82] see -[1519.82 --> 1520.10] in -[1520.10 --> 1520.70] Joseph's -[1520.70 --> 1521.28] seeming -[1521.28 --> 1521.70] forgotten -[1521.70 --> 1522.82] that -[1522.82 --> 1523.10] might -[1523.10 --> 1523.42] help -[1523.42 --> 1523.68] you -[1523.68 --> 1524.50] as -[1524.50 --> 1524.62] you -[1524.62 --> 1525.30] experience -[1525.30 --> 1525.58] or -[1525.58 --> 1525.80] when -[1525.80 --> 1525.96] you -[1525.96 --> 1526.66] experience -[1526.66 --> 1527.52] yours -[1527.52 --> 1529.28] one -[1529.28 --> 1529.70] was -[1529.70 --> 1529.88] his -[1529.88 --> 1530.44] concern -[1530.44 --> 1531.12] for -[1531.12 --> 1531.52] others -[1531.52 --> 1532.94] rather -[1532.94 --> 1533.20] than -[1533.20 --> 1533.36] be -[1533.36 --> 1533.74] so -[1533.74 --> 1534.44] consumed -[1534.44 --> 1534.70] with -[1534.70 --> 1534.88] the -[1534.88 --> 1535.32] wrong -[1535.32 --> 1535.94] that -[1535.94 --> 1536.14] he -[1536.14 --> 1536.66] suffered -[1536.66 --> 1537.72] that -[1537.72 --> 1537.86] he -[1537.86 --> 1538.36] ignored -[1538.36 --> 1538.62] the -[1538.62 --> 1538.88] needs -[1538.88 --> 1539.06] of -[1539.06 --> 1539.54] everybody -[1539.54 --> 1540.02] else -[1540.02 --> 1541.24] his -[1541.24 --> 1541.62] care -[1541.62 --> 1541.86] for -[1541.86 --> 1542.18] others -[1542.18 --> 1542.36] and -[1542.36 --> 1542.60] his -[1542.60 --> 1543.08] willingness -[1543.08 --> 1544.06] to -[1544.06 --> 1544.28] get -[1544.28 --> 1544.72] involved -[1544.72 --> 1544.94] in -[1544.94 --> 1545.20] their -[1545.20 --> 1545.68] troubles -[1545.68 --> 1546.92] become -[1546.92 --> 1547.18] the -[1547.18 --> 1547.42] means -[1547.42 --> 1547.60] of -[1547.60 --> 1547.74] his -[1547.74 --> 1547.98] own -[1547.98 --> 1548.44] freedom -[1548.44 --> 1549.90] however -[1549.90 --> 1550.28] slow -[1550.28 --> 1550.46] in -[1550.46 --> 1550.72] coming -[1550.72 --> 1551.06] as -[1551.06 --> 1551.46] you -[1551.46 --> 1551.60] and -[1551.60 --> 1551.76] I -[1551.76 --> 1552.02] measure -[1552.02 --> 1552.42] time -[1552.42 --> 1554.16] it -[1554.16 --> 1554.30] is -[1554.30 --> 1554.48] at -[1554.48 --> 1554.66] least -[1554.66 --> 1555.36] possible -[1555.36 --> 1556.72] that -[1556.72 --> 1557.38] sometimes -[1557.38 --> 1557.96] God -[1557.96 --> 1558.24] may -[1558.24 --> 1558.70] have -[1558.70 --> 1558.96] you -[1558.96 --> 1559.30] where -[1559.30 --> 1559.54] he -[1559.54 --> 1559.92] has -[1559.92 --> 1560.06] you -[1560.06 --> 1560.36] not -[1560.36 --> 1560.76] only -[1560.76 --> 1561.04] as -[1561.04 --> 1561.36] part -[1561.36 --> 1562.02] of -[1562.02 --> 1562.20] what -[1562.20 --> 1562.34] he -[1562.34 --> 1562.54] is -[1562.54 --> 1562.82] doing -[1562.82 --> 1563.08] in -[1563.08 --> 1563.38] your -[1563.38 --> 1563.80] life -[1563.80 --> 1566.06] but -[1566.06 --> 1566.26] so -[1566.26 --> 1566.52] that -[1566.52 --> 1566.90] you -[1566.90 --> 1567.30] can -[1567.30 --> 1567.48] be -[1567.48 --> 1567.90] part -[1567.90 --> 1568.56] of -[1568.56 --> 1568.74] what -[1568.74 --> 1569.02] God -[1569.02 --> 1569.18] is -[1569.18 --> 1569.52] doing -[1569.52 --> 1570.20] in -[1570.20 --> 1570.50] someone -[1570.50 --> 1570.94] else's -[1570.94 --> 1571.24] life -[1571.24 --> 1573.34] we -[1573.34 --> 1573.52] can -[1573.52 --> 1573.88] focus -[1573.88 --> 1574.10] on -[1574.10 --> 1574.24] the -[1574.24 --> 1574.48] part -[1574.48 --> 1574.58] of -[1574.58 --> 1574.78] the -[1574.78 --> 1575.42] promise -[1575.42 --> 1575.70] that -[1575.70 --> 1576.04] says -[1576.04 --> 1576.36] we -[1576.36 --> 1576.54] will -[1576.54 --> 1576.70] be -[1576.70 --> 1577.14] blessed -[1577.14 --> 1578.80] and -[1578.80 --> 1579.12] forget -[1579.12 --> 1580.00] that -[1580.00 --> 1580.14] we -[1580.14 --> 1580.26] are -[1580.26 --> 1580.58] also -[1580.58 --> 1580.98] called -[1580.98 --> 1581.42] to -[1581.42 --> 1581.64] be -[1581.64 --> 1581.78] a -[1581.78 --> 1582.10] blessing -[1582.10 --> 1582.54] to -[1582.54 --> 1582.92] others -[1582.92 --> 1584.54] in -[1584.54 --> 1585.02] Joseph's -[1585.02 --> 1585.30] case -[1585.30 --> 1585.70] God -[1585.70 --> 1586.12] worked -[1586.12 --> 1586.86] on -[1586.86 --> 1587.12] both -[1587.12 --> 1587.54] others -[1587.54 --> 1587.92] and -[1587.92 --> 1588.36] Joseph -[1588.36 --> 1589.40] at -[1589.40 --> 1589.88] once -[1589.88 --> 1590.32] at -[1590.32 --> 1590.46] the -[1590.46 --> 1590.62] same -[1590.62 --> 1591.04] time -[1591.04 --> 1593.24] another -[1593.24 --> 1593.56] thing -[1593.56 --> 1593.84] is to -[1593.84 --> 1594.16] see -[1594.16 --> 1594.48] that -[1594.48 --> 1594.96] God's -[1594.96 --> 1595.34] delay -[1595.34 --> 1596.28] sometimes -[1596.28 --> 1596.88] serves -[1596.88 --> 1597.14] a -[1597.14 --> 1597.68] necessary -[1597.68 --> 1598.26] purpose -[1598.26 --> 1599.74] what -[1599.74 --> 1599.88] of -[1599.88 --> 1600.02] the -[1600.02 --> 1600.24] cub -[1600.24 --> 1601.26] bearer -[1601.26 --> 1602.58] had -[1602.58 --> 1603.00] remembered -[1603.00 --> 1603.42] Joseph -[1603.42 --> 1603.76] the -[1603.76 --> 1604.12] moment -[1604.12 --> 1604.32] he -[1604.32 --> 1604.74] himself -[1604.74 --> 1604.96] was -[1604.96 --> 1605.38] restored -[1605.38 --> 1607.00] and -[1607.00 --> 1607.44] somehow -[1607.44 --> 1608.00] convinced -[1608.00 --> 1608.44] Pharaoh -[1608.44 --> 1609.46] to -[1609.46 --> 1609.70] have -[1609.70 --> 1610.06] Joseph -[1610.06 --> 1610.60] released -[1610.60 --> 1611.40] immediately -[1611.40 --> 1612.26] I know -[1612.26 --> 1612.58] this is -[1612.58 --> 1612.78] all -[1612.78 --> 1613.30] speculation -[1613.30 --> 1613.72] but -[1613.72 --> 1614.20] Joseph -[1614.20 --> 1614.62] might -[1614.62 --> 1614.72] have -[1614.72 --> 1614.92] gone -[1614.92 --> 1615.16] back -[1615.16 --> 1615.48] home -[1615.48 --> 1616.72] and -[1616.72 --> 1617.08] God -[1617.08 --> 1617.32] needs -[1617.32 --> 1617.48] him -[1617.48 --> 1617.62] in -[1617.62 --> 1618.06] Egypt -[1618.06 --> 1619.32] God -[1619.32 --> 1619.52] has -[1619.52 --> 1619.80] something -[1619.80 --> 1620.22] bigger -[1620.22 --> 1620.50] and -[1620.50 --> 1620.76] better -[1620.76 --> 1621.02] for -[1621.02 --> 1621.26] him -[1621.26 --> 1623.36] so -[1623.36 --> 1623.68] if -[1623.68 --> 1623.98] your -[1623.98 --> 1624.68] deliverance -[1624.68 --> 1625.00] is -[1625.00 --> 1625.48] delayed -[1625.48 --> 1626.26] just -[1626.26 --> 1626.96] maybe -[1626.96 --> 1627.44] it -[1627.44 --> 1627.74] has -[1627.74 --> 1627.92] to -[1627.92 --> 1628.12] do -[1628.12 --> 1628.56] with -[1628.56 --> 1629.10] something -[1629.10 --> 1629.50] God -[1629.50 --> 1629.80] wants -[1629.80 --> 1629.96] to -[1629.96 --> 1630.22] do -[1630.22 --> 1630.82] in -[1630.82 --> 1631.20] you -[1631.20 --> 1633.08] just -[1633.08 --> 1634.02] maybe -[1634.02 --> 1634.68] it's -[1634.68 --> 1635.14] because -[1635.14 --> 1635.46] there -[1635.46 --> 1635.68] is -[1635.68 --> 1636.02] more -[1636.02 --> 1636.26] that -[1636.26 --> 1636.56] God -[1636.56 --> 1636.72] is -[1636.72 --> 1637.02] dealing -[1637.02 --> 1637.40] with -[1637.40 --> 1638.44] than -[1638.44 --> 1638.82] just -[1638.82 --> 1639.10] you -[1639.10 --> 1641.36] now -[1641.36 --> 1641.68] I -[1641.68 --> 1641.82] don't -[1641.82 --> 1641.96] know -[1641.96 --> 1642.16] for -[1642.16 --> 1642.38] sure -[1642.38 --> 1642.64] about -[1642.64 --> 1642.92] that -[1642.92 --> 1644.12] okay -[1644.12 --> 1644.38] but -[1644.38 --> 1644.52] I -[1644.52 --> 1644.68] do -[1644.68 --> 1644.88] know -[1644.88 --> 1645.24] this -[1645.24 --> 1646.62] God -[1646.62 --> 1647.80] remembers -[1647.80 --> 1649.40] God -[1649.40 --> 1649.64] does -[1649.64 --> 1649.94] not -[1649.94 --> 1650.34] forget -[1650.34 --> 1650.80] Joseph -[1650.80 --> 1652.04] God -[1652.04 --> 1652.56] knows -[1652.56 --> 1653.54] your -[1653.54 --> 1653.98] name -[1653.98 --> 1655.40] and -[1655.40 --> 1655.56] in -[1655.56 --> 1655.80] that -[1655.80 --> 1656.38] remembering -[1656.38 --> 1656.78] we -[1656.78 --> 1657.34] find a -[1657.34 --> 1657.70] purpose -[1657.70 --> 1658.20] and hope -[1658.20 --> 1658.68] that -[1658.68 --> 1659.14] nothing -[1659.14 --> 1659.50] and -[1659.50 --> 1659.76] no -[1659.76 --> 1659.96] one -[1659.96 --> 1660.42] not -[1660.42 --> 1660.76] even -[1660.76 --> 1661.14] death -[1661.14 --> 1661.68] can -[1661.68 --> 1662.18] destroy -[1662.18 --> 1664.02] that's -[1664.02 --> 1664.22] what -[1664.22 --> 1664.54] Jesus -[1664.54 --> 1664.98] taught -[1664.98 --> 1665.18] us -[1665.18 --> 1665.64] when -[1665.64 --> 1665.80] he -[1665.80 --> 1666.00] was -[1666.00 --> 1666.16] on -[1666.16 --> 1666.30] a -[1666.30 --> 1666.66] cross -[1666.66 --> 1668.12] that -[1668.12 --> 1668.30] to -[1668.30 --> 1668.48] be -[1668.48 --> 1669.06] remembered -[1669.06 --> 1669.32] by -[1669.32 --> 1669.72] God -[1669.72 --> 1670.92] and -[1670.92 --> 1671.12] in -[1671.12 --> 1671.34] turn -[1671.34 --> 1671.54] to -[1671.54 --> 1672.06] remember -[1672.06 --> 1672.34] this -[1672.34 --> 1672.62] God -[1672.62 --> 1673.26] ourselves -[1673.26 --> 1674.20] is -[1674.20 --> 1674.36] to -[1674.36 --> 1674.60] have -[1674.60 --> 1674.76] a -[1674.76 --> 1675.14] future -[1675.14 --> 1676.12] a -[1676.12 --> 1676.44] sure -[1676.44 --> 1676.82] hope -[1676.82 --> 1678.18] Jesus -[1678.18 --> 1678.54] said -[1678.54 --> 1678.70] the -[1678.70 --> 1678.92] one -[1678.92 --> 1679.38] criminal -[1679.38 --> 1679.74] hanging -[1679.74 --> 1680.18] beside -[1680.18 --> 1680.36] him -[1680.36 --> 1681.00] remember -[1681.00 --> 1681.34] me -[1681.34 --> 1681.60] when -[1681.60 --> 1681.72] you -[1681.72 --> 1682.00] come -[1682.00 --> 1682.22] into -[1682.22 --> 1682.42] your -[1682.42 --> 1682.74] kingdom -[1682.74 --> 1683.26] and -[1683.26 --> 1683.40] he -[1683.40 --> 1683.62] was -[1683.62 --> 1683.94] not -[1683.94 --> 1684.32] hoping -[1684.32 --> 1684.54] that -[1684.54 --> 1684.76] one -[1684.76 --> 1684.94] day -[1684.94 --> 1685.26] Jesus -[1685.26 --> 1685.48] would -[1685.48 --> 1685.60] be -[1685.60 --> 1685.92] riding -[1685.92 --> 1686.28] some -[1686.28 --> 1686.58] white -[1686.58 --> 1687.14] stallion -[1687.14 --> 1687.58] into -[1687.58 --> 1687.80] his -[1687.80 --> 1688.14] heavenly -[1688.14 --> 1688.54] kingdom -[1688.54 --> 1688.84] only -[1688.84 --> 1689.06] to -[1689.06 --> 1689.22] say -[1689.22 --> 1689.38] to -[1689.38 --> 1689.80] somebody -[1689.80 --> 1690.34] say -[1690.34 --> 1690.64] do you -[1690.64 --> 1691.08] remember -[1691.08 --> 1691.48] that -[1691.48 --> 1691.68] other -[1691.68 --> 1691.96] fellow -[1691.96 --> 1692.12] who -[1692.12 --> 1692.38] died -[1692.38 --> 1692.54] with -[1692.54 --> 1692.66] me -[1692.66 --> 1692.76] at -[1692.76 --> 1693.14] Golgotha -[1693.14 --> 1693.42] I -[1693.42 --> 1694.04] remember -[1694.04 --> 1694.42] him -[1694.42 --> 1694.98] not -[1694.98 --> 1695.14] a -[1695.14 --> 1695.38] bad -[1695.38 --> 1695.64] fellow -[1695.64 --> 1695.80] in -[1695.80 --> 1695.92] the -[1695.92 --> 1696.12] end -[1696.12 --> 1696.36] too -[1696.36 --> 1696.74] bad -[1696.74 --> 1697.16] he's -[1697.16 --> 1697.42] gone -[1697.42 --> 1697.76] now -[1697.76 --> 1699.92] no -[1699.92 --> 1700.42] God's -[1700.42 --> 1700.86] remembering -[1700.86 --> 1701.44] is not -[1701.44 --> 1701.94] about -[1701.94 --> 1703.24] recalling -[1703.24 --> 1703.72] your -[1703.72 --> 1704.14] CV -[1704.14 --> 1705.64] but about -[1705.64 --> 1706.22] remembering -[1706.22 --> 1706.98] you -[1706.98 --> 1707.74] loving -[1707.74 --> 1708.68] you -[1708.68 --> 1709.62] caring -[1709.62 --> 1710.58] for you -[1710.58 --> 1711.16] giving -[1711.16 --> 1711.74] you -[1711.74 --> 1712.54] a reason -[1712.54 --> 1713.14] to live -[1713.14 --> 1714.00] to be -[1714.00 --> 1714.38] blessed -[1714.38 --> 1714.82] and bless -[1714.82 --> 1715.28] others -[1715.28 --> 1716.56] and assure -[1716.56 --> 1717.14] an eternal -[1717.14 --> 1717.60] hope -[1717.60 --> 1718.64] for the -[1718.64 --> 1719.02] future -[1719.02 --> 1721.32] God -[1721.32 --> 1721.82] remembers -[1721.82 --> 1722.54] his promise -[1722.54 --> 1723.06] to bless -[1723.06 --> 1723.50] Abraham -[1723.50 --> 1724.74] and his -[1724.74 --> 1725.24] descendants -[1725.24 --> 1726.04] and thereby -[1726.04 --> 1726.66] assures -[1726.66 --> 1726.96] me -[1726.96 --> 1728.18] he knows -[1728.18 --> 1729.02] my name -[1729.02 --> 1730.90] but he -[1730.90 --> 1731.30] also -[1731.30 --> 1731.88] remembers -[1731.88 --> 1732.56] his promise -[1732.56 --> 1733.08] to bless -[1733.08 --> 1733.88] all peoples -[1733.88 --> 1734.60] through -[1734.60 --> 1735.02] Abraham -[1735.02 --> 1735.62] and his -[1735.62 --> 1736.12] descendants -[1736.12 --> 1736.86] and thereby -[1736.86 --> 1737.48] assures -[1737.48 --> 1737.76] me -[1737.76 --> 1738.54] that he -[1738.54 --> 1738.96] knows -[1738.96 --> 1739.40] and he -[1739.40 --> 1739.80] rules -[1739.80 --> 1740.54] all peoples -[1740.54 --> 1741.10] and events -[1741.10 --> 1742.02] today -[1742.02 --> 1744.16] notice how -[1744.16 --> 1744.80] Joseph tells -[1744.80 --> 1745.14] Pharaoh -[1745.14 --> 1745.66] like it -[1745.66 --> 1746.00] is -[1746.00 --> 1748.44] you see -[1748.44 --> 1749.40] Pharaoh's -[1749.40 --> 1750.08] authority -[1750.08 --> 1751.04] and Pharaoh's -[1751.04 --> 1751.52] power -[1751.52 --> 1752.16] came from -[1752.16 --> 1752.68] the fact -[1752.68 --> 1754.28] that people -[1754.28 --> 1754.84] believed -[1754.84 --> 1755.54] Pharaoh -[1755.54 --> 1756.50] was a -[1756.50 --> 1756.80] god -[1756.80 --> 1758.62] that Pharaoh -[1758.62 --> 1759.20] could give -[1759.20 --> 1760.06] them life -[1760.06 --> 1760.86] and a -[1760.86 --> 1761.18] future -[1761.18 --> 1762.50] and that -[1762.50 --> 1763.00] life and -[1763.00 --> 1763.34] future -[1763.34 --> 1763.86] were tied -[1763.86 --> 1764.42] up with -[1764.42 --> 1764.80] the Nile -[1764.80 --> 1765.18] river -[1765.18 --> 1766.30] Egyptian -[1766.30 --> 1766.88] religion -[1766.88 --> 1767.32] taught -[1767.32 --> 1768.16] that Ra -[1768.16 --> 1768.94] the sun -[1768.94 --> 1769.36] god -[1769.36 --> 1770.24] whose priests -[1770.24 --> 1770.70] were on -[1770.70 --> 1771.36] Pharaoh's -[1771.36 --> 1771.88] payroll -[1771.88 --> 1772.90] guaranteed -[1772.90 --> 1773.64] the regular -[1773.64 --> 1774.38] annual -[1774.38 --> 1775.38] Nile floods -[1775.38 --> 1776.12] that watered -[1776.12 --> 1776.74] the crops -[1776.74 --> 1777.36] of Egypt -[1777.36 --> 1778.38] the regular -[1778.38 --> 1779.16] ebb and -[1779.16 --> 1779.72] flow of -[1779.72 --> 1780.22] the Nile -[1780.22 --> 1780.94] under the -[1780.94 --> 1781.70] control of -[1781.70 --> 1782.24] Ra and -[1782.24 --> 1782.78] his agent -[1782.78 --> 1783.26] Pharaoh -[1783.26 --> 1784.22] allowed -[1784.22 --> 1784.78] Pharaoh -[1784.78 --> 1785.36] in the -[1785.36 --> 1785.70] eyes -[1785.70 --> 1785.98] of the -[1785.98 --> 1786.34] people -[1786.34 --> 1786.82] to -[1786.82 --> 1787.50] generate -[1787.50 --> 1787.98] and -[1787.98 --> 1788.52] guarantee -[1788.52 --> 1789.64] life -[1789.64 --> 1792.26] now -[1792.26 --> 1792.94] here -[1792.94 --> 1793.78] is this -[1793.78 --> 1794.26] Hebrew -[1794.26 --> 1795.18] jailbird -[1795.18 --> 1796.26] Joseph -[1796.26 --> 1797.68] standing -[1797.68 --> 1798.12] in front -[1798.12 --> 1798.30] of -[1798.30 --> 1798.64] Pharaoh -[1798.64 --> 1799.64] with -[1799.64 --> 1800.16] the gall -[1800.16 --> 1800.86] to declare -[1800.86 --> 1802.82] God -[1802.82 --> 1803.54] has revealed -[1803.54 --> 1804.16] to the -[1804.16 --> 1804.48] Pharaoh -[1804.48 --> 1805.26] what -[1805.26 --> 1805.92] God -[1805.92 --> 1806.88] is about -[1806.88 --> 1807.36] to do -[1807.36 --> 1809.34] in that -[1809.34 --> 1810.22] one sentence -[1810.22 --> 1810.74] there is -[1810.74 --> 1811.54] a major -[1811.54 --> 1812.40] shift -[1812.40 --> 1812.82] in the -[1812.82 --> 1813.14] whole -[1813.14 --> 1813.70] balance -[1813.70 --> 1814.36] of power -[1814.36 --> 1814.98] in the -[1814.98 --> 1815.56] throne room -[1815.56 --> 1816.40] of Egypt -[1816.40 --> 1818.02] Pharaoh's -[1818.02 --> 1818.38] dreams -[1818.38 --> 1819.16] reveal a -[1819.16 --> 1819.56] future -[1819.56 --> 1820.12] over which -[1820.12 --> 1820.66] Pharaoh -[1820.66 --> 1822.20] cannot cause -[1822.20 --> 1823.44] rather -[1823.44 --> 1824.14] over which -[1824.14 --> 1824.52] Pharaoh -[1824.52 --> 1824.90] and his -[1824.90 --> 1825.14] priests -[1825.14 --> 1825.38] have -[1825.38 --> 1826.10] absolutely -[1826.10 --> 1827.48] no control -[1827.48 --> 1828.96] suddenly -[1828.96 --> 1829.38] it is -[1829.38 --> 1829.72] clear -[1829.72 --> 1829.98] that -[1829.98 --> 1830.42] Pharaoh -[1830.42 --> 1831.02] cannot -[1831.02 --> 1831.56] cause -[1831.56 --> 1832.20] Pharaoh -[1832.20 --> 1832.80] cannot -[1832.80 --> 1833.28] guarantee -[1833.28 --> 1834.28] the future -[1834.28 --> 1835.90] it is -[1835.90 --> 1836.30] the God -[1836.30 --> 1836.84] of Israel -[1836.84 --> 1838.80] not Ra -[1838.80 --> 1840.56] not -[1840.56 --> 1840.98] Pharaoh -[1840.98 --> 1842.60] the God -[1842.60 --> 1843.12] of Israel -[1843.12 --> 1844.38] who controls -[1844.38 --> 1845.20] plenty -[1845.20 --> 1846.24] and famine -[1846.24 --> 1847.52] the God -[1847.52 --> 1848.06] of Israel -[1848.06 --> 1849.02] who has -[1849.02 --> 1849.60] the taps -[1849.60 --> 1850.02] of the -[1850.02 --> 1850.60] great Nile -[1850.60 --> 1850.94] river -[1850.94 --> 1852.04] in his -[1852.04 --> 1852.42] hand -[1852.42 --> 1855.34] Joseph -[1855.34 --> 1856.00] declares -[1856.00 --> 1856.52] that his -[1856.52 --> 1856.94] God -[1856.94 --> 1857.36] the God -[1857.36 --> 1857.86] of Abraham -[1857.86 --> 1858.68] Isaac -[1858.68 --> 1859.36] and Jacob -[1859.36 --> 1860.98] owns -[1860.98 --> 1861.64] the future -[1861.64 --> 1863.62] a claim -[1863.62 --> 1864.08] that is at -[1864.08 --> 1864.70] the very -[1864.70 --> 1865.44] foundation -[1865.44 --> 1866.38] of biblical -[1866.38 --> 1867.36] faith -[1867.36 --> 1868.62] we see it -[1868.62 --> 1869.06] again -[1869.06 --> 1870.04] and again -[1870.04 --> 1870.94] we see it -[1870.94 --> 1871.28] when a -[1871.28 --> 1871.58] Pharaoh -[1871.58 --> 1872.58] 400 years -[1872.58 --> 1873.00] later -[1873.00 --> 1873.90] responds -[1873.90 --> 1874.38] to Moses -[1874.38 --> 1874.88] demand -[1874.88 --> 1875.18] that he -[1875.18 --> 1875.84] let God's -[1875.84 --> 1876.38] people go -[1876.38 --> 1877.00] by saying -[1877.00 --> 1877.74] who is the -[1877.74 --> 1877.94] Lord -[1877.94 --> 1878.32] that I -[1878.32 --> 1878.50] should -[1878.50 --> 1879.08] obey him -[1879.08 --> 1880.14] and let -[1880.14 --> 1880.46] Israel -[1880.46 --> 1880.84] go -[1880.84 --> 1883.00] and God -[1883.00 --> 1883.86] destroys him -[1883.86 --> 1884.14] and his -[1884.14 --> 1884.52] army -[1884.52 --> 1885.46] in the -[1885.46 --> 1885.98] Red Sea -[1885.98 --> 1888.12] we see it -[1888.12 --> 1888.38] when the -[1888.38 --> 1889.04] infant Jesus -[1889.04 --> 1889.72] is threatened -[1889.72 --> 1890.42] by the -[1890.42 --> 1890.74] envious -[1890.74 --> 1891.28] power -[1891.28 --> 1892.02] of King -[1892.02 --> 1892.42] Herod -[1892.42 --> 1894.14] we see it -[1894.14 --> 1894.50] when Jesus -[1894.50 --> 1894.98] stands -[1894.98 --> 1895.80] before Pilate -[1895.80 --> 1896.36] and declares -[1896.36 --> 1897.08] you would -[1897.08 --> 1897.48] have no -[1897.48 --> 1898.18] power over -[1898.18 --> 1898.56] me -[1898.56 --> 1899.24] if it -[1899.24 --> 1899.54] were not -[1899.54 --> 1900.06] given to -[1900.06 --> 1900.42] you -[1900.42 --> 1901.50] from above -[1901.50 --> 1903.72] no matter -[1903.72 --> 1904.18] what the -[1904.18 --> 1904.80] history books -[1904.80 --> 1905.12] say -[1905.12 --> 1906.46] no matter -[1906.46 --> 1907.54] whose hand -[1907.54 --> 1908.36] seems to be -[1908.36 --> 1908.72] on the -[1908.72 --> 1909.06] levers -[1909.06 --> 1910.14] of power -[1910.14 --> 1910.62] in our -[1910.62 --> 1911.30] world today -[1911.30 --> 1912.42] you can name -[1912.42 --> 1912.96] every name -[1912.96 --> 1913.48] you care to -[1913.48 --> 1913.74] name -[1913.74 --> 1915.34] ultimately -[1915.34 --> 1916.42] God -[1916.42 --> 1917.00] is in -[1917.00 --> 1917.38] charge -[1917.38 --> 1919.06] this is -[1919.06 --> 1920.06] Joseph's -[1920.06 --> 1920.32] earth -[1920.32 --> 1921.30] shaking -[1921.30 --> 1922.20] claim -[1922.20 --> 1923.94] Egypt -[1923.94 --> 1924.56] shaking -[1924.56 --> 1925.04] claim -[1925.04 --> 1926.38] as -[1926.38 --> 1926.54] he -[1926.54 --> 1927.16] interprets -[1927.16 --> 1927.74] Pharaoh's -[1927.74 --> 1928.06] dream -[1928.06 --> 1930.38] and God -[1930.38 --> 1931.30] uses us -[1931.30 --> 1931.92] to stake -[1931.92 --> 1932.68] his claim -[1932.68 --> 1933.80] to bless -[1933.80 --> 1934.28] others -[1934.28 --> 1935.48] God -[1935.48 --> 1935.96] and Joseph -[1935.96 --> 1936.82] work together -[1936.82 --> 1937.56] toward the -[1937.56 --> 1938.18] future of -[1938.18 --> 1938.70] feeding a -[1938.70 --> 1939.38] hungry world -[1939.38 --> 1941.22] God's plan -[1941.22 --> 1941.98] is implemented -[1941.98 --> 1943.26] by Joseph's -[1943.26 --> 1943.74] gifts of -[1943.74 --> 1944.46] imagination -[1944.46 --> 1945.54] and administration -[1945.54 --> 1946.82] it is one -[1946.82 --> 1947.38] thing that is -[1947.38 --> 1948.04] to trust in -[1948.04 --> 1948.50] the God -[1948.50 --> 1949.16] who knows -[1949.16 --> 1949.50] when the -[1949.50 --> 1949.84] sparrow -[1949.84 --> 1950.30] falls -[1950.30 --> 1950.96] who numbers -[1950.96 --> 1951.44] the very -[1951.44 --> 1951.96] hairs on -[1951.96 --> 1952.44] my head -[1952.44 --> 1953.40] God also -[1953.40 --> 1954.38] uses those -[1954.38 --> 1954.78] heads -[1954.78 --> 1955.74] of ours -[1955.74 --> 1957.10] God's -[1957.10 --> 1957.66] plans -[1957.66 --> 1958.56] to bless -[1958.56 --> 1959.36] all peoples -[1959.36 --> 1959.78] do not -[1959.78 --> 1960.44] override -[1960.44 --> 1961.16] our human -[1961.16 --> 1961.92] intelligence -[1961.92 --> 1962.88] discernment -[1962.88 --> 1963.46] care -[1963.46 --> 1964.14] and planning -[1964.14 --> 1964.94] but God -[1964.94 --> 1965.54] invites -[1965.54 --> 1966.22] commands -[1966.22 --> 1966.92] our -[1966.92 --> 1967.50] participation -[1967.50 --> 1968.30] with him -[1968.30 --> 1969.14] love the -[1969.14 --> 1969.52] Lord your -[1969.52 --> 1969.86] God -[1969.86 --> 1970.34] it says -[1970.34 --> 1970.62] in the -[1970.62 --> 1971.16] New Testament -[1971.16 --> 1971.70] with all -[1971.70 --> 1972.38] your heart -[1972.38 --> 1973.28] soul -[1973.28 --> 1974.12] strength -[1974.12 --> 1975.72] and mind -[1975.72 --> 1977.70] yes -[1977.70 --> 1978.32] Joseph's -[1978.32 --> 1978.74] godliness -[1978.74 --> 1979.54] shines through -[1979.54 --> 1980.06] in his -[1980.06 --> 1980.50] resistance -[1980.50 --> 1980.88] to the -[1980.88 --> 1981.46] temptations -[1981.46 --> 1982.28] of Potiphar's -[1982.28 --> 1982.62] wife -[1982.62 --> 1983.62] in his -[1983.62 --> 1984.02] faith -[1984.02 --> 1984.30] while he -[1984.30 --> 1984.92] is begotten -[1984.92 --> 1985.42] in prison -[1985.42 --> 1985.96] in his -[1985.96 --> 1986.72] interpretation -[1986.72 --> 1987.62] of the -[1987.62 --> 1988.16] pharaoh's -[1988.16 --> 1988.54] dream -[1988.54 --> 1990.30] but it -[1990.30 --> 1991.16] also comes -[1991.16 --> 1991.52] through -[1991.52 --> 1992.26] in a -[1992.26 --> 1992.70] grand -[1992.70 --> 1993.76] 14 year -[1993.76 --> 1994.46] economic -[1994.46 --> 1994.98] plan -[1994.98 --> 1995.72] that will -[1995.72 --> 1996.14] feed -[1996.14 --> 1996.78] a hungry -[1996.78 --> 1997.46] world -[1997.46 --> 1999.42] God's -[1999.42 --> 1999.86] work is -[1999.86 --> 2000.40] not limited -[2000.40 --> 2000.86] to what -[2000.86 --> 2001.46] goes on -[2001.46 --> 2001.92] in church -[2001.92 --> 2002.26] or in -[2002.26 --> 2002.76] our personal -[2002.76 --> 2003.22] lives -[2003.22 --> 2004.10] God works -[2004.10 --> 2004.80] in politics -[2004.80 --> 2005.54] and government -[2005.54 --> 2006.40] and management -[2006.40 --> 2007.30] of the economy -[2007.30 --> 2008.28] God doesn't -[2008.28 --> 2008.94] just feed -[2008.94 --> 2009.36] the poor -[2009.36 --> 2009.72] with an -[2009.72 --> 2010.26] occasional -[2010.26 --> 2011.16] miraculous -[2011.16 --> 2011.86] multiplying -[2011.86 --> 2012.32] of a few -[2012.32 --> 2012.70] loaves -[2012.70 --> 2013.20] and fish -[2013.20 --> 2014.06] but also -[2014.06 --> 2014.74] through spirit -[2014.74 --> 2015.66] gifted people -[2015.66 --> 2016.78] the policies -[2016.78 --> 2017.36] of just -[2017.36 --> 2017.84] and caring -[2017.84 --> 2018.30] leaders -[2018.30 --> 2019.16] of business -[2019.16 --> 2019.56] people -[2019.56 --> 2020.34] of relief -[2020.34 --> 2020.72] planners -[2020.72 --> 2021.34] and yes -[2021.34 --> 2022.80] even ordinary -[2022.80 --> 2023.70] people like -[2023.70 --> 2024.08] us -[2024.08 --> 2025.10] giving and -[2025.10 --> 2025.52] sharing -[2025.52 --> 2026.46] where we are -[2026.46 --> 2026.88] able -[2026.88 --> 2028.12] especially this -[2028.12 --> 2028.58] Thanksgiving -[2028.58 --> 2029.12] weekend -[2029.12 --> 2031.44] but listen -[2031.44 --> 2032.24] God -[2032.24 --> 2033.34] is in -[2033.34 --> 2033.80] control -[2033.80 --> 2035.38] God -[2035.38 --> 2036.38] ultimately -[2036.38 --> 2037.12] rules -[2037.12 --> 2037.78] world -[2037.78 --> 2038.42] affairs -[2038.42 --> 2039.42] this -[2039.42 --> 2039.78] too -[2039.78 --> 2040.08] is -[2040.08 --> 2040.26] the -[2040.26 --> 2040.68] gospel -[2040.68 --> 2041.02] of -[2041.02 --> 2041.40] Genesis -[2041.40 --> 2041.90] 40 -[2041.90 --> 2042.88] and 41 -[2042.88 --> 2044.62] and ultimately -[2044.62 --> 2045.38] that gospel -[2045.38 --> 2045.94] of Joseph -[2045.94 --> 2046.56] points to -[2046.56 --> 2047.12] the person -[2047.12 --> 2048.12] in the center -[2048.12 --> 2048.76] of all -[2048.76 --> 2049.32] of history -[2049.32 --> 2050.66] Jesus Christ -[2050.66 --> 2051.46] God -[2051.46 --> 2052.68] with us -[2052.68 --> 2053.74] who also -[2053.74 --> 2054.38] challenged -[2054.38 --> 2055.02] the powers -[2055.02 --> 2055.68] of this world -[2055.68 --> 2056.00] and they -[2056.00 --> 2056.72] lifted him -[2056.72 --> 2057.00] up -[2057.00 --> 2058.64] on a cross -[2058.64 --> 2059.62] and they -[2059.62 --> 2060.24] killed him -[2060.24 --> 2061.74] but on the -[2061.74 --> 2062.24] third day -[2062.24 --> 2062.80] he rose -[2062.80 --> 2063.16] from the -[2063.16 --> 2063.42] dead -[2063.42 --> 2064.56] and just -[2064.56 --> 2065.04] as all -[2065.04 --> 2065.52] were once -[2065.52 --> 2065.98] commanded -[2065.98 --> 2066.58] to bow -[2066.58 --> 2067.00] before -[2067.00 --> 2067.50] Joseph -[2067.50 --> 2068.48] so as -[2068.48 --> 2069.22] Paul wrote -[2069.22 --> 2069.84] to Christians -[2069.84 --> 2070.60] in Philippi -[2070.60 --> 2071.42] God -[2071.42 --> 2072.06] exalted -[2072.06 --> 2072.52] Jesus -[2072.52 --> 2073.54] to the -[2073.54 --> 2073.96] highest -[2073.96 --> 2074.44] place -[2074.44 --> 2075.44] and gave -[2075.44 --> 2075.92] him the -[2075.92 --> 2076.14] name -[2076.14 --> 2076.52] that is -[2076.52 --> 2076.84] above -[2076.84 --> 2077.44] every -[2077.44 --> 2077.82] name -[2077.82 --> 2078.70] that at -[2078.70 --> 2079.24] the name -[2079.24 --> 2079.76] of Jesus -[2079.76 --> 2080.74] every knee -[2080.74 --> 2081.36] should bow -[2081.36 --> 2082.34] in heaven -[2082.34 --> 2083.00] and on earth -[2083.00 --> 2083.46] and under -[2083.46 --> 2083.98] the earth -[2083.98 --> 2085.28] and every -[2085.28 --> 2085.56] tongue -[2085.56 --> 2086.18] confess -[2086.18 --> 2087.40] that Jesus -[2087.40 --> 2088.04] Christ -[2088.04 --> 2088.76] is Lord -[2088.76 --> 2090.10] to the glory -[2090.10 --> 2091.08] of God -[2091.08 --> 2091.64] the Father -[2091.64 --> 2092.96] this -[2092.96 --> 2094.88] this is -[2094.88 --> 2095.52] God's -[2095.52 --> 2096.34] ultimate -[2096.34 --> 2097.26] dream -[2097.26 --> 2098.94] the ultimate -[2098.94 --> 2099.58] fulfillment -[2099.58 --> 2100.02] of his -[2100.02 --> 2100.52] promise -[2100.52 --> 2101.72] to Abraham -[2101.72 --> 2103.32] in that -[2103.32 --> 2103.72] dream -[2103.72 --> 2104.44] lies the -[2104.44 --> 2104.82] hope -[2104.82 --> 2105.52] and the -[2105.52 --> 2105.90] future -[2105.90 --> 2106.66] and the -[2106.66 --> 2107.04] blessing -[2107.04 --> 2107.96] of the -[2107.96 --> 2108.40] world -[2108.40 --> 2110.02] this -[2110.02 --> 2110.54] faithful -[2110.54 --> 2111.02] covenant -[2111.02 --> 2111.56] God -[2111.56 --> 2112.66] always -[2112.66 --> 2113.24] remembers -[2113.24 --> 2114.64] he knows -[2114.64 --> 2115.82] my name -[2115.82 --> 2117.74] which -[2117.74 --> 2118.24] leaves us -[2118.24 --> 2118.76] to answer -[2118.76 --> 2119.44] just one -[2119.44 --> 2120.58] very simple -[2120.58 --> 2121.34] but important -[2121.34 --> 2121.88] question -[2121.88 --> 2123.72] what will -[2123.72 --> 2124.16] you do -[2124.16 --> 2124.64] even -[2124.64 --> 2125.54] this week -[2125.54 --> 2126.86] so that -[2126.86 --> 2127.40] others in -[2127.40 --> 2128.10] your circle -[2128.10 --> 2128.90] of influence -[2128.90 --> 2130.12] and in the -[2130.12 --> 2130.48] world -[2130.48 --> 2131.62] will come -[2131.62 --> 2132.16] to know -[2132.16 --> 2133.64] his name -[2133.64 --> 2135.64] in the name -[2135.64 --> 2135.92] of the -[2135.92 --> 2136.38] Father and -[2136.38 --> 2136.78] the Son -[2136.78 --> 2138.04] and the Holy -[2138.04 --> 2138.42] Spirit -[2138.42 --> 2139.82] let's pray -[2139.82 --> 2142.52] gracious God -[2142.52 --> 2143.26] we thank you -[2143.26 --> 2144.80] especially on -[2144.80 --> 2145.08] this -[2145.08 --> 2146.38] Thanksgiving -[2146.38 --> 2146.98] weekend -[2146.98 --> 2148.46] for the -[2148.46 --> 2148.86] gospel -[2148.86 --> 2149.70] that we -[2149.70 --> 2150.12] have heard -[2150.12 --> 2150.52] today -[2150.52 --> 2152.28] that you -[2152.28 --> 2152.76] remember -[2152.76 --> 2153.02] your -[2153.02 --> 2153.38] covenant -[2153.38 --> 2155.10] and you -[2155.10 --> 2155.56] know our -[2155.56 --> 2155.86] name -[2155.86 --> 2157.46] that you -[2157.46 --> 2157.92] remember -[2157.92 --> 2158.56] your covenant -[2158.56 --> 2159.22] with Abraham -[2159.22 --> 2161.18] and you -[2161.18 --> 2161.46] are the -[2161.46 --> 2161.74] one -[2161.74 --> 2162.88] who rules -[2162.88 --> 2163.98] all things -[2163.98 --> 2165.58] may that -[2165.58 --> 2166.02] give us -[2166.02 --> 2166.56] Lord in -[2166.56 --> 2167.32] these chaotic -[2167.32 --> 2167.92] times -[2167.92 --> 2169.60] a sense -[2169.60 --> 2170.16] of peace -[2170.16 --> 2171.68] a sense -[2171.68 --> 2172.54] of confidence -[2172.54 --> 2173.60] a sense -[2173.60 --> 2174.22] of trust -[2174.22 --> 2175.84] and a -[2175.84 --> 2176.32] strong -[2176.32 --> 2177.02] and firm -[2177.02 --> 2177.48] hope -[2177.48 --> 2179.06] for this -[2179.06 --> 2179.38] day -[2179.38 --> 2180.30] and for -[2180.30 --> 2180.80] the future -[2180.80 --> 2182.58] we pray -[2182.58 --> 2183.10] in Jesus -[2183.10 --> 2183.54] name -[2183.54 --> 2184.34] amen diff --git "a/Joseph #5\342\200\224Truth and Reconciliation (Sermon)_summary.txt" "b/Joseph #5\342\200\224Truth and Reconciliation (Sermon)_summary.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index f0a10cc31b7870f55345c852268a9f2f72eec22f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Joseph #5\342\200\224Truth and Reconciliation (Sermon)_summary.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,69 +0,0 @@ -• The seven years of famine have begun in Egypt, but the land has food while other lands are affected -• Jacob sends ten of his sons to buy grain from Egypt, leaving Benjamin behind due to fear for his safety -• Joseph recognizes his brothers upon their arrival in Egypt, but pretends to be a stranger and accuses them of being spies -• The brothers deny being spies and offer to sell their livestock if they are unable to obtain food -• Joseph puts the brothers in custody for three days, demanding that one of them return with Benjamin before he will release his brothers -• Brothers discuss their actions regarding Joseph's disappearance -• Reuben blames the brothers for their role in Joseph's punishment -• Joseph understands the brothers' conversation through an interpreter -• Simeon is taken by Joseph, leaving a sack of grain for the brothers to take back -• The brothers return home and find their silver in their sacks -• They are frightened upon seeing the money pouches again -• Jacob refuses to let Benjamin go with his brothers -• Reuben offers to bring Benjamin back to their father -• A woman whose husband was murdered by Vanderbrook demands that he take her to where his body was burned so she can give him a proper burial -• She requests that Vanderbrook spend time with her in the ghetto twice a month as a form of restitution for taking her family away from her -• The woman asks that someone lead her across the courtroom to hug Vanderbrook, symbolizing forgiveness -• A biblical story is told about Joseph, who had the power to sentence his brothers to death but chose instead to forgive them and help them in their time of need -• The speaker reflects on how we would respond if we were in a similar situation as Joseph or the South African mother -• Jacob's parenting skills are questioned -• Joseph's brothers travel to Egypt due to famine, while Benjamin stays home -• Jacob refuses to let Benjamin go, citing his previous loss as the only son -• The 10 brothers arrive in Egypt and easily blend into the crowd -• Joseph recognizes his brothers despite changes over time -• Joseph uses an interpreter to communicate with his brothers and adopts Egyptian mannerisms -• Flashbacks of Joseph's past experiences are described, including being sold by his brothers, experiencing slavery, and false accusations leading to prison time -• Joseph's newfound power and position in Egypt -• His brothers' past mistreatment of him -• The concept of holy revenge vs. seeking reconciliation -• Joseph's plan to test his brothers through a series of circumstances mirroring their past actions against him -• The use of "holy revenge" as a means to an end, with the ultimate goal being reconciliation -• The speaker references the story of Joseph in Genesis and notes that genuine reconciliation cannot happen without truth -• Joseph wants to test the character of his brothers for the sake of reconciliation, not revenge -• The promise of God to Abraham is a key to understanding Joseph's actions and serves as the basis for the story -• A dream that echoes God's promise to Abraham is significant in the narrative -• Joseph comes to understand his brothers as instruments of God's purpose for him -• Joseph's brothers were used by God to fulfill His plan for Joseph's life. -• Joseph sees them as tools and instruments in God's hands, rather than enemies or opponents. -• This perspective is essential for Christians to adopt when dealing with difficult people, such as those who have wronged them. -• It requires seeing the bigger picture and trusting that God is working everything out for their good. -• Faith over sight -• Joseph's story as an example of faith and forgiveness -• God using difficult circumstances to shape and mold people -• The danger of living in a world controlled by past hurts and evils -• Jesus' teaching on loving enemies and praying for those who persecute us -• The cycle of retaliation and the importance of not seeking revenge -• The Bible teaches not to return evil for evil -• Revenge and retaliation lead to a chain reaction of escalating evil -• It's rare for two people to weigh pain on the same scale, making revenge impossible -• Non-resistance is not passive, but an active deed of grace -• Sometimes standing up for rights or seeking justice may be necessary -• Jesus' words are often misunderstood as an invitation to live as doormats -• There's a difference between fighting against wrongs and seeking revenge -• The brothers' question in Genesis 42 about God's actions being punishment for past evils -• Understanding God's true intentions as healing and reconciliation through Joseph -• Comparing the brothers' misunderstanding to human understanding of God's suffering -• Recognizing God's immense power to endure and overcome evil -• Acknowledging God's capacity to remember every evil act and its implications -• Highlighting Jesus Christ's cross as a reminder of God's love and mercy -• Applying the lesson that just as we are spared destruction, so must we respond with love and compassion. -• The concept of God's sovereignty and redemption through Jesus Christ -• The idea that remembering past sufferings can help alleviate pain and temptation to take revenge -• The comfort of knowing a higher power is dealing with hurts and will ultimately wipe away tears and reconcile enemies -• The example of Joseph's forgiveness and reconciliation with his brothers as an illustration of "severe grace" rather than "amazing grace" -• The theme of God's grace being present in both gentle and severe forms, ultimately leading to redemption and healing. -• The concept of the prodigal son is used to describe people coming to their senses and recognizing God's presence in their lives. -• Confessing sin and acknowledging God's hand in orchestrating events can lead to a new future of blessing. -• Even small steps towards faith are considered amazing enough grace from God. -• Many people have yet to catch on or join in with the Spirit of God, but they will eventually. -• Understanding the bigger picture through Jesus is key to spiritual growth. \ No newline at end of file diff --git "a/Joseph #5\342\200\224Truth and Reconciliation (Sermon)_transcript.txt" "b/Joseph #5\342\200\224Truth and Reconciliation (Sermon)_transcript.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 370ece7a938e34c831524ad30a4fd669f83e9375..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Joseph #5\342\200\224Truth and Reconciliation (Sermon)_transcript.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1406 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 12.08] Well, this is week number five of the Joseph series, and we're going to read today from -[12.08 --> 17.60] the latter part of Genesis 41 and then all of chapter 42. -[22.04 --> 29.72] And we last left Joseph when he had just been taken out of prison and had a pretty incredible -[29.72 --> 35.16] promotion from prisoner to second in command in the Egyptian empire. -[38.22 --> 44.14] Joseph was 30 years old when he entered the service of Pharaoh, king of Egypt. -[45.26 --> 49.60] And Joseph went out from Pharaoh's presence and traveled throughout Egypt. -[50.54 --> 54.30] During the seven years of abundance, the land produced plentifully. -[55.12 --> 60.00] Joseph collected all the food produced in those seven years of abundance in Egypt and -[60.00 --> 61.16] stored it in the cities. -[61.58 --> 65.52] In each city, he put the food grown in the fields surrounding it. -[66.34 --> 70.32] Joseph stored up huge quantities of grain, like the sand of the sea. -[70.50 --> 75.60] It was so much that he stopped keeping records because it was beyond measure. -[75.60 --> 83.16] Before the years of famine came, two sons were born to Joseph by Asenath, daughter of Potipharah, -[83.60 --> 84.40] priest of On. -[85.04 --> 87.74] Joseph named his firstborn Manasseh and said, -[88.46 --> 93.52] It is because God has made me forget all my trouble and all my father's household. -[94.60 --> 97.00] The second son he named Ephraim and said, -[97.50 --> 101.56] It is because God has made me fruitful in the land of my sovereign. -[101.56 --> 107.02] The seven years of abundance in Egypt came to an end. -[107.74 --> 111.64] And the seven years of famine began, just as Joseph had said. -[112.56 --> 117.38] There was famine in all the other lands, but in the whole land of Egypt there was food. -[118.24 --> 122.32] When all Egypt began to fuel the famine, the people cried out to Pharaoh for food. -[122.72 --> 124.38] Then Pharaoh told all the Egyptians, -[124.70 --> 126.52] Go to Joseph and do what he tells you. -[126.52 --> 129.70] When the famine had spread over the whole country, -[130.32 --> 133.74] Joseph opened all the storehouses and sold grain to the Egyptians, -[134.10 --> 136.58] for the famine was severe throughout Egypt. -[137.02 --> 140.36] And all the world came to Egypt to buy grain from Joseph, -[140.70 --> 143.66] because the famine was severe everywhere. -[145.42 --> 148.66] When Jacob learned there was grain in Egypt, -[148.84 --> 150.14] he said to his sons, -[150.62 --> 153.02] Why do you just keep looking at each other? -[153.02 --> 155.50] I have heard that there is grain in Egypt. -[155.70 --> 157.36] Go down there and buy some for us, -[157.38 --> 159.18] so that we may live and not die. -[160.88 --> 163.96] Then ten of Joseph's brothers went down to buy grain from Egypt. -[164.32 --> 166.92] But Jacob did not send Benjamin, Joseph's brother, -[167.14 --> 170.90] with the others, because he was afraid that harm might come to him. -[171.68 --> 174.68] So Israel's sons were among those who went to buy grain, -[174.88 --> 178.06] for there was famine in the land of Canaan also. -[178.06 --> 181.58] Now Joseph was the governor of the land, -[181.68 --> 183.76] the person who sold grain to all its people. -[184.40 --> 186.00] So when Joseph's brothers arrived, -[186.10 --> 188.54] they bowed down to him with their faces to the ground. -[189.36 --> 191.26] As soon as Joseph saw his brothers, -[191.58 --> 192.90] he recognized them. -[193.66 --> 195.46] But he pretended to be a stranger -[195.46 --> 197.40] and spoke harshly to them. -[197.90 --> 199.48] Where do you come from? he asked. -[200.08 --> 202.02] From the land of Canaan, they replied, -[202.18 --> 203.04] to buy food. -[204.28 --> 205.94] Although Joseph recognized his brothers, -[205.94 --> 207.52] they did not recognize him. -[208.06 --> 210.12] Then he remembered his dreams about them -[210.12 --> 210.80] and said to them, -[211.08 --> 211.72] You are spies. -[212.42 --> 214.66] You have come to see where our land is unprotected. -[215.48 --> 216.78] No, my lord, they answered. -[217.18 --> 219.06] Your servants have come to buy food. -[219.42 --> 221.18] We are all the sons of one man. -[221.66 --> 224.24] Your servants are honest men, not spies. -[224.68 --> 225.86] No, he said to them. -[226.28 --> 228.82] You have come to see where our land is unprotected. -[229.70 --> 230.76] But they replied, -[230.96 --> 232.52] Your servants were twelve brothers, -[232.88 --> 235.32] the sons of one man who lives in the land of Canaan. -[235.32 --> 237.20] The youngest is now with our father, -[237.38 --> 238.56] and one is no more. -[239.26 --> 240.28] Joseph said to them, -[240.40 --> 241.76] It is just as I told you. -[241.98 --> 242.90] You are spies, -[243.26 --> 244.86] and this is how you will be tested. -[245.42 --> 247.14] As surely as Pharaoh lives, -[247.28 --> 248.94] you will not leave this place -[248.94 --> 251.72] unless your youngest brother comes here. -[252.52 --> 254.50] Send one of your number to get your brother. -[254.78 --> 256.42] The rest of you will be kept in prison -[256.42 --> 258.54] so that your words may be tested -[258.54 --> 260.64] to see if you are telling the truth. -[260.64 --> 262.08] If you are not, -[262.46 --> 263.26] then surely, -[263.38 --> 265.08] as surely as Pharaoh lives, -[265.48 --> 266.98] you are spies. -[267.68 --> 270.48] And he put them all in custody for three days. -[271.56 --> 272.60] On the third day, -[272.66 --> 273.50] Joseph said to them, -[273.90 --> 274.60] Do this, -[275.20 --> 276.14] and you will live, -[276.60 --> 277.44] for I fear God. -[278.50 --> 279.68] If you are honest men, -[279.74 --> 281.54] let one of your brothers stay here in prison -[281.54 --> 282.88] while the rest of you go -[282.88 --> 285.30] and take grain back for your starving households. -[285.76 --> 288.40] But you must bring your youngest brother to me -[288.40 --> 290.58] so that your words may be verified -[290.58 --> 292.58] and that you may not die. -[294.04 --> 296.06] This they proceeded to do. -[297.22 --> 298.36] They said to one another, -[298.94 --> 301.36] Surely we are being punished because of our brother. -[302.02 --> 303.92] We saw how distressed he was -[303.92 --> 305.68] when he pleaded with us for his life, -[305.80 --> 307.06] but we would not listen. -[307.24 --> 309.90] That's why this distress has come on us. -[310.96 --> 311.84] Reuben replied, -[312.26 --> 314.36] Didn't I tell you not to sin against the boy? -[314.50 --> 315.58] But you wouldn't listen. -[315.58 --> 318.44] Now we must give an accounting for his blood. -[319.98 --> 323.26] They did not realize that Joseph could understand them -[323.26 --> 325.68] since he was using an interpreter. -[327.36 --> 330.22] He turned away from them and began to weep, -[330.68 --> 332.64] but then came back and spoke to them again. -[333.42 --> 334.54] He had Simeon bound, -[334.68 --> 335.90] of Simeon taken from them -[335.90 --> 337.32] and bound before their eyes. -[337.88 --> 340.22] Joseph gave orders to fill their bags with grain, -[340.40 --> 342.82] to put each man's silver back in his sack, -[342.82 --> 344.98] and to give them provisions for their journey. -[345.58 --> 347.14] After this was done for them, -[347.22 --> 349.66] they loaded their grain on their donkeys and left. -[350.56 --> 352.14] At the place where they stopped for the night, -[352.26 --> 353.48] one of them opened his sack -[353.48 --> 355.04] to get feed for his donkey, -[355.36 --> 358.52] and he saw his silver in the mouth of his sack. -[359.18 --> 360.98] My silver has been returned, -[361.46 --> 363.04] he said to my brother, his brothers. -[363.44 --> 365.44] Here it is in my sack. -[366.28 --> 367.50] Their hearts sank, -[367.60 --> 369.58] and they turned to each other trembling and said, -[369.98 --> 373.04] What is this that God has done to us? -[373.04 --> 377.26] When they came to their father Jacob in the land of Canaan, -[377.42 --> 379.10] they told him all that had happened to them. -[379.50 --> 379.90] They said, -[380.02 --> 382.74] The man who was lord over the land spoke harshly to us -[382.74 --> 385.42] and treated us as though we were spying on the land. -[386.06 --> 387.10] But we said to him, -[387.26 --> 388.40] We are honest men. -[388.68 --> 389.82] We are not spies. -[390.62 --> 391.68] We were twelve brothers, -[391.88 --> 392.94] sons of one father. -[393.26 --> 394.12] One is no more, -[394.18 --> 396.34] and the youngest is now with our father in Canaan. -[396.34 --> 399.98] Then the man who was lord over the land said to us, -[400.48 --> 402.76] This is how I will know whether you are honest men. -[403.42 --> 405.34] Leave one of your brothers here with me -[405.34 --> 408.22] and take food for your starving households and go. -[408.74 --> 410.46] But bring your youngest brother to me -[410.46 --> 413.86] so I will know that you are not spies but honest men. -[414.46 --> 416.22] Then I will give your brother back to you, -[416.56 --> 418.10] and you can trade in the land. -[419.42 --> 421.20] As they were emptying their sacks, -[421.38 --> 424.84] there in each man's sack was his pouch of silver. -[424.84 --> 428.28] When they and their father saw the money pouches, -[428.44 --> 429.56] they were frightened. -[430.42 --> 431.96] Their father Jacob said to them, -[432.48 --> 434.62] You have deprived me of my children. -[435.38 --> 436.52] Joseph is no more, -[436.96 --> 438.30] and Simeon is no more, -[438.48 --> 440.14] and now you want to take Benjamin. -[440.40 --> 442.24] Everything is against me. -[443.54 --> 445.04] Then Reuben said to his father, -[445.80 --> 448.08] You may put both of my sons to death -[448.08 --> 450.36] if I do not bring him back to you. -[451.08 --> 452.40] Entrust him to my care, -[452.90 --> 454.04] and I will bring him back. -[454.84 --> 456.16] But Jacob said, -[456.48 --> 458.34] My son will not go down there with you. -[458.84 --> 459.98] His brother is dead, -[460.18 --> 462.66] and he is the only one left. -[463.28 --> 465.74] If harm comes to him on the journey you are taking, -[466.16 --> 470.32] you will bring my gray head down to the grave in sorrow. -[471.00 --> 473.20] This is the word of the Lord. -[474.10 --> 474.86] Let's pray. -[475.20 --> 475.88] Gracious God, -[476.88 --> 479.78] help us to understand -[479.78 --> 484.68] this story in the context of our own lives as well. -[486.68 --> 488.24] Open the eyes of our heart -[488.24 --> 490.30] to hear your word to us today. -[491.00 --> 492.88] In Jesus' name, amen. -[492.88 --> 499.42] During the hearings a number of years ago -[499.42 --> 504.14] of South Africa's Truth and Reconciliation Committee, -[506.14 --> 507.86] an aging mother and wife -[507.86 --> 510.70] stood in an emotionally charged courtroom, -[511.98 --> 514.34] listening to police officers admit -[514.34 --> 518.60] to the atrocities committed in the name of apartheid -[518.60 --> 520.48] against her family. -[522.14 --> 524.50] One of them, Officer Vanderbrook, -[525.58 --> 527.98] admitted his responsibility in the death -[527.98 --> 530.08] of her 18-year-old son. -[531.76 --> 533.22] Along with other officers, -[533.56 --> 537.04] he shot the young man at point-blank range, -[537.04 --> 541.52] then partied as the young man's body -[541.52 --> 543.48] was slowly reduced to ashes -[543.48 --> 546.42] while roasting over an open fire. -[548.08 --> 550.20] Eight years later, Vanderbrook, -[550.90 --> 551.74] along with others, -[552.00 --> 554.14] returned and seized her husband. -[555.36 --> 556.72] She was forced to watch -[556.72 --> 559.42] as his body was doused with gasoline -[559.42 --> 562.74] and the police officers ignited the flames -[562.74 --> 565.42] that consumed and killed him. -[567.04 --> 571.18] Now, Vanderbrook stood before her, -[571.90 --> 573.14] awaiting judgment. -[574.66 --> 576.70] He caused her incredible pain, -[577.30 --> 578.72] taken so much from her, -[578.80 --> 581.48] but today the tables were turned. -[582.54 --> 584.30] Now, as the committee asked her -[584.30 --> 586.46] what she would want in this matter -[586.46 --> 587.94] to bring about justice, -[588.34 --> 591.70] she had the power to influence his future, -[592.86 --> 595.56] a future that could mean life imprisonment, -[595.56 --> 599.12] even, perhaps, death. -[602.00 --> 603.18] Speaking calmly, -[604.30 --> 607.04] this is what she told the committee. -[608.32 --> 610.66] I would like three things. -[611.72 --> 615.14] First, I would like Mr. Vanderbrook -[615.14 --> 617.96] to take me where my husband's body was burned. -[617.96 --> 621.14] I would like to sweep up the dust -[621.14 --> 624.22] so I could give him a decent burial. -[625.92 --> 628.82] Second, Mr. Vanderbrook -[628.82 --> 631.96] has taken all the family I have from me, -[632.52 --> 635.68] and I have a lot of love to give. -[637.10 --> 638.70] So twice a month, -[639.24 --> 640.72] I'd like him to come down -[640.72 --> 643.42] and spend a day with me in the ghetto -[643.42 --> 646.48] so I could be a mother to him. -[648.28 --> 649.68] Third, and finally, -[650.08 --> 652.08] I'd like Mr. Vanderbrook to know -[652.08 --> 653.76] that God has forgiven him, -[654.56 --> 656.68] and I can forgive him too. -[656.68 --> 660.84] So that he knows my forgiveness is real, -[660.84 --> 662.40] I would like someone -[662.40 --> 664.72] to lead me across the courtroom -[664.72 --> 667.34] so I can give him a hug. -[669.28 --> 672.08] As she was slowly led across the courtroom, -[672.96 --> 675.82] Vanderbrook, overwhelmed by her response, -[676.90 --> 678.18] fainted dead away. -[679.28 --> 682.36] One person started singing Amazing Grace, -[682.36 --> 685.12] and by the time the song ended, -[685.72 --> 688.70] all who were in the courtroom joined in. -[689.48 --> 690.10] True story. -[694.94 --> 697.94] Nobody started singing Amazing Grace -[697.94 --> 701.30] the day Joseph's brothers arrived in Egypt. -[703.60 --> 706.76] Driven by need because of severe famine everywhere, -[708.32 --> 710.02] Jacob sent his sons there -[710.02 --> 712.64] where they faced Joseph for the first time -[712.64 --> 714.42] since they had sold him -[714.42 --> 717.66] into slavery over 20 years before. -[719.42 --> 721.66] They didn't know it was Joseph at the time, -[721.74 --> 723.70] and they would not know for quite some time yet. -[724.98 --> 727.30] But Joseph recognized his brothers -[727.30 --> 729.28] and found himself in a position -[729.28 --> 731.42] like that South African mother -[731.42 --> 733.76] where he had those responsible -[733.76 --> 736.44] for so much pain in his life -[736.44 --> 737.60] over a barrel. -[737.60 --> 741.94] Not only does he have some influence -[741.94 --> 743.04] in how they are treated, -[743.28 --> 745.48] he literally has the power of life -[745.48 --> 746.60] and death over them. -[748.30 --> 750.76] And what would Joseph do? -[753.36 --> 754.42] For that matter, -[754.56 --> 756.20] and just to make it more personal -[756.20 --> 757.78] and get you involved in the story -[757.78 --> 758.58] right from the start, -[758.74 --> 760.52] what would you do? -[762.30 --> 763.96] What would each of us, -[764.06 --> 765.96] each with our own unique stories, -[765.96 --> 767.98] what would you do -[767.98 --> 769.38] if you had a person, -[769.48 --> 771.18] and maybe someone comes to mind, -[771.56 --> 773.62] who caused you a lot of pain -[773.62 --> 775.74] if you had that person -[775.74 --> 777.08] over a barrel? -[778.76 --> 779.78] Or perhaps, -[779.90 --> 781.88] what have you done? -[785.14 --> 787.32] I don't know how you'd answer that question. -[787.32 --> 792.04] You know how one South African mother did, -[793.00 --> 795.46] and Genesis 42 tells us -[795.46 --> 797.10] how Joseph did. -[799.28 --> 801.32] Try to imagine this situation -[801.32 --> 804.88] as Joseph suddenly and unexpectedly -[804.88 --> 807.30] relives his painful past. -[807.30 --> 810.84] He thought he'd put it behind him. -[811.64 --> 812.04] In fact, -[812.12 --> 813.30] the end of Genesis 41 -[813.30 --> 814.50] tells us that Joseph -[814.50 --> 817.52] named his firstborn son Manasseh -[817.52 --> 819.06] because he said, -[819.86 --> 821.80] God has made me forget -[821.80 --> 823.22] all my troubles -[823.22 --> 825.28] and all my father's household. -[826.64 --> 828.40] Except that life -[828.40 --> 830.38] doesn't really work like that, -[830.66 --> 831.14] does it? -[831.14 --> 834.58] The past has a way -[834.58 --> 836.08] of coming back to us. -[836.40 --> 838.42] We can talk until we are blue in the face -[838.42 --> 839.42] about how important, -[839.74 --> 841.16] how necessary it is -[841.16 --> 842.94] to forgive and to forget. -[843.16 --> 845.48] But most of us know by experience -[845.48 --> 848.28] that as difficult as forgiving can be, -[849.22 --> 852.44] forgetting is almost impossible. -[853.82 --> 855.64] Even if by God's grace -[855.64 --> 857.08] we have managed to forgive, -[857.48 --> 860.16] do we ever really forget? -[860.16 --> 865.46] Genesis 42 brings back, -[865.56 --> 868.18] the past back into Joseph's present -[868.18 --> 870.54] in a dramatic way. -[872.20 --> 874.36] His father and brothers back home -[874.36 --> 876.54] in Canaan are in desperate straits -[876.54 --> 878.86] as they too have been affected -[878.86 --> 880.96] by a worldwide famine. -[882.24 --> 884.72] The situation is obviously serious -[884.72 --> 886.88] for Jacob sends his son to Egypt -[886.88 --> 888.88] to get grains as the storyteller -[888.88 --> 890.32] so that we may live -[890.32 --> 891.42] and not die. -[892.78 --> 893.90] And so all the brothers, -[894.86 --> 895.74] except for one, -[896.62 --> 897.66] head down to Egypt. -[898.88 --> 900.26] Benjamin, the youngest, -[900.86 --> 901.66] Jacob's favorite, -[901.82 --> 903.06] now that Joseph is gone, -[903.70 --> 904.30] stays home. -[905.62 --> 907.00] Jacob's parenting skills -[907.00 --> 909.08] haven't improved much over time. -[910.46 --> 911.80] Did you notice what he says -[911.80 --> 913.56] at the end of Genesis 42 -[913.56 --> 916.18] in refusing to let Benjamin go to Egypt? -[916.84 --> 917.50] Listen again. -[918.30 --> 920.30] My son will not go down there with you. -[920.56 --> 921.64] His brother is dead -[921.64 --> 923.52] and he is the only one left. -[924.26 --> 926.84] Like I thought there were 10 others, -[927.10 --> 928.76] but I digress. -[929.96 --> 932.36] The 10 brothers arrived in Egypt. -[933.76 --> 935.84] And as ridiculous as you know it is -[935.84 --> 936.66] to say by now, -[936.66 --> 937.98] it so happens -[937.98 --> 940.48] that although masses of foreigners -[940.48 --> 942.04] were streaming into Egypt -[942.04 --> 943.44] on a regular basis, -[943.88 --> 945.40] Jacob's 10 sons -[945.40 --> 947.40] easily lost in that crowd. -[947.78 --> 948.60] And although someone -[948.60 --> 950.46] in Joseph's lofty position -[950.46 --> 952.26] would hardly have been on hand -[952.26 --> 952.90] to approve -[952.90 --> 954.86] every last grain customer, -[955.32 --> 956.90] not only does Joseph manage -[956.90 --> 958.06] to see his brothers, -[958.32 --> 959.68] he recognizes them. -[959.68 --> 964.14] But 20 years have changed Joseph, -[964.54 --> 966.72] much more so than his brothers. -[967.92 --> 968.76] And so the brothers -[968.76 --> 970.44] do not recognize Joseph. -[971.66 --> 973.08] The spoiled teenagers -[973.08 --> 973.90] they had sold -[973.90 --> 975.64] over 20 years ago -[975.64 --> 976.98] was now almost 40. -[977.72 --> 978.50] And he walked -[978.50 --> 979.88] and he talked. -[980.54 --> 981.70] Joseph deliberately chose -[981.70 --> 982.80] to speak through an interpreter. -[983.64 --> 985.00] He walked and he talked -[985.00 --> 987.34] and looked like an Egyptian. -[987.34 --> 990.78] Now imagine -[990.78 --> 993.06] you are Joseph -[993.06 --> 994.84] in this situation. -[996.04 --> 997.20] You experience -[997.20 --> 998.84] a series of flashbacks. -[1000.70 --> 1001.48] Flashback one, -[1001.58 --> 1003.32] you're sitting in a deep hole -[1003.32 --> 1003.96] in the ground, -[1004.08 --> 1005.00] nothing but darkness -[1005.00 --> 1005.72] around you -[1005.72 --> 1007.00] in a round circle of light -[1007.00 --> 1007.78] high above you. -[1008.06 --> 1009.08] Your coat is gone. -[1009.38 --> 1010.12] You are cold. -[1010.26 --> 1011.38] And we finally learn -[1011.38 --> 1012.20] from this chapter -[1012.20 --> 1013.30] you are scared -[1013.30 --> 1014.52] and you are crying -[1014.52 --> 1015.64] and you are pleading -[1015.64 --> 1016.62] for your life. -[1017.34 --> 1020.04] flashback two, -[1020.78 --> 1022.12] your brothers sell you -[1022.12 --> 1023.38] to some strange men -[1023.38 --> 1024.68] for 20 pieces of silver. -[1025.62 --> 1026.64] The men bind your wrists -[1026.64 --> 1027.56] so there's no escape -[1027.56 --> 1028.34] and you're on your way -[1028.34 --> 1028.82] to Egypt -[1028.82 --> 1029.82] where you've never been -[1029.82 --> 1030.90] and to slavery -[1030.90 --> 1032.50] where you do the best you can -[1032.50 --> 1033.24] for your master -[1033.24 --> 1034.46] but can never forget -[1034.46 --> 1035.70] that you are a slave -[1035.70 --> 1037.74] to whatever your master desires. -[1039.74 --> 1040.62] Flashback three, -[1040.84 --> 1041.98] you are thrown into prison -[1041.98 --> 1042.78] where you remain -[1042.78 --> 1045.32] for close to 10 plus years -[1045.32 --> 1048.02] because your master's wife -[1048.02 --> 1049.28] falsely accused you -[1049.28 --> 1050.38] of sexual assault -[1050.38 --> 1051.54] and who listens -[1051.54 --> 1052.62] to a slave. -[1054.42 --> 1056.28] But now you have become -[1056.28 --> 1057.80] incredibly powerful. -[1058.82 --> 1059.82] God has blessed you. -[1059.92 --> 1061.20] You are second in command -[1061.20 --> 1063.02] in the whole land of Egypt -[1063.02 --> 1063.90] and one day -[1063.90 --> 1064.76] the perpetrators -[1064.76 --> 1065.54] of your misery, -[1065.70 --> 1067.14] of your past misery, -[1067.14 --> 1069.06] bow down before you, -[1069.32 --> 1070.60] not recognizing you, -[1070.60 --> 1072.42] but you recognize them -[1072.42 --> 1075.02] and you remember. -[1075.66 --> 1077.00] How could you possibly -[1077.00 --> 1079.60] ever really forget? -[1082.22 --> 1083.66] And wouldn't you want -[1083.66 --> 1085.16] a little revenge? -[1086.54 --> 1087.84] Wouldn't there be a voice -[1087.84 --> 1088.44] in your head -[1088.44 --> 1089.38] telling you to give them -[1089.38 --> 1090.10] what they deserve, -[1090.24 --> 1090.82] make them pay -[1090.82 --> 1091.92] for what they put you through? -[1092.92 --> 1093.84] Wouldn't you be tempted -[1093.84 --> 1094.64] to mess with them -[1094.64 --> 1095.72] just a little bit -[1095.72 --> 1098.28] or at least get in their face -[1098.28 --> 1098.66] and say, -[1098.78 --> 1099.70] do you know how much pain -[1099.70 --> 1100.90] you have caused me? -[1101.12 --> 1102.34] Do you have any idea -[1102.34 --> 1103.82] what the last 20 years -[1103.82 --> 1104.64] of my life -[1104.64 --> 1105.76] have been like? -[1110.40 --> 1111.50] Amazingly, however, -[1112.36 --> 1114.18] it is grace -[1114.18 --> 1115.78] that is on Joseph's mind. -[1115.78 --> 1118.16] Even though it comes -[1118.16 --> 1119.56] in the form of a sort of -[1119.56 --> 1120.42] what I would call -[1120.42 --> 1121.60] holy revenge. -[1122.86 --> 1124.40] Because in every detail -[1124.40 --> 1125.28] of the story, -[1125.66 --> 1126.92] Joseph gives his brothers -[1126.92 --> 1128.96] a taste of what they did -[1128.96 --> 1129.44] to him -[1129.44 --> 1131.26] by putting them -[1131.26 --> 1132.76] in the same sort -[1132.76 --> 1133.60] of circumstances -[1133.60 --> 1135.10] into which they had placed -[1135.10 --> 1135.88] Joseph. -[1137.94 --> 1138.48] One, -[1139.68 --> 1140.90] he accuses them -[1140.90 --> 1141.44] of coming -[1141.44 --> 1142.42] to spy out -[1142.42 --> 1143.32] where the land of Egypt -[1143.32 --> 1144.26] is unprotected, -[1144.26 --> 1146.14] but what he literally says, -[1147.50 --> 1148.60] shades of the false -[1148.60 --> 1149.62] accusation Joseph -[1149.62 --> 1150.22] had suffered -[1150.22 --> 1151.34] from Mrs. Potiphar, -[1151.76 --> 1153.06] what he literally says -[1153.06 --> 1154.32] is that they have come -[1154.32 --> 1155.18] to violate -[1155.18 --> 1156.62] the nakedness -[1156.62 --> 1157.36] of the land. -[1159.14 --> 1160.32] For a second thing, -[1160.40 --> 1161.38] they all spend time -[1161.38 --> 1161.88] in prison. -[1162.86 --> 1163.60] In all likelihood, -[1163.78 --> 1164.48] the same prison -[1164.48 --> 1165.08] where Joseph -[1165.08 --> 1165.72] had spent -[1165.72 --> 1166.96] the precious years -[1166.96 --> 1167.82] of his youth. -[1168.80 --> 1169.94] For a third thing, -[1170.02 --> 1170.88] he binds Satan -[1170.88 --> 1171.80] before their eyes -[1171.80 --> 1172.30] as he sends -[1172.30 --> 1172.96] the rest of them -[1172.96 --> 1173.96] back to Canaan. -[1173.96 --> 1175.64] and just as Joseph himself -[1175.64 --> 1176.34] had been bound -[1176.34 --> 1177.38] by the slave traders. -[1178.38 --> 1179.88] And for a fourth thing, -[1180.58 --> 1181.30] he returns -[1181.30 --> 1182.40] each man's silver, -[1183.34 --> 1183.92] a reminder -[1183.92 --> 1184.84] of his own -[1184.84 --> 1185.96] purchase price. -[1187.18 --> 1188.42] And because he is -[1188.42 --> 1189.92] only human after all, -[1189.98 --> 1190.64] it is hard -[1190.64 --> 1192.14] to believe, -[1192.92 --> 1193.88] or it is not -[1193.88 --> 1194.64] hard to believe, -[1195.32 --> 1196.12] that he might have -[1196.12 --> 1197.18] enjoyed this -[1197.18 --> 1198.02] holy revenge -[1198.02 --> 1200.12] just a little bit. -[1200.12 --> 1203.42] still, -[1203.58 --> 1206.46] it is a holy revenge -[1206.46 --> 1208.34] because the goal -[1208.34 --> 1210.02] is not payback. -[1211.16 --> 1212.54] What Joseph seeks -[1212.54 --> 1214.06] is reconciliation. -[1214.06 --> 1216.06] And reconciliation, -[1217.80 --> 1219.06] genuine reconciliation, -[1220.68 --> 1221.80] as South Africa -[1221.80 --> 1223.36] recognized when it -[1223.36 --> 1224.62] appointed the Truth -[1224.62 --> 1226.44] and Reconciliation Commission -[1226.44 --> 1227.76] to deal with the -[1227.76 --> 1228.74] terrible abuses -[1228.74 --> 1229.44] that happened -[1229.44 --> 1231.46] during apartheid, -[1232.28 --> 1233.20] and as our own -[1233.20 --> 1233.52] country, -[1233.68 --> 1234.04] Canada, -[1234.20 --> 1235.58] recognized when it -[1235.58 --> 1236.74] appointed a similar -[1236.74 --> 1238.86] commission in 2008 -[1238.86 --> 1240.06] to deal with the -[1240.06 --> 1241.34] painful and awful -[1241.34 --> 1242.32] legacy of the -[1242.32 --> 1243.40] residential schools -[1243.40 --> 1244.62] among our country's -[1244.62 --> 1245.72] indigenous people, -[1246.52 --> 1248.10] genuine reconciliation -[1248.10 --> 1249.78] cannot happen -[1249.78 --> 1252.04] without truth. -[1252.04 --> 1255.74] Joseph wants the -[1255.74 --> 1256.16] truth. -[1257.56 --> 1258.48] He wants to test -[1258.48 --> 1259.06] the character -[1259.06 --> 1259.76] of his brothers. -[1260.68 --> 1261.36] He wants to know -[1261.36 --> 1262.06] their heart, -[1262.88 --> 1264.18] not for the sake -[1264.18 --> 1264.88] of revenge, -[1265.02 --> 1265.82] but for the sake -[1265.82 --> 1266.16] of, -[1266.64 --> 1267.42] with the goal -[1267.42 --> 1267.86] of, -[1268.52 --> 1269.16] reconciliation. -[1272.08 --> 1273.44] We can only imagine, -[1273.58 --> 1274.38] some of us perhaps -[1274.38 --> 1275.30] better than others, -[1275.54 --> 1276.48] the mixed feelings -[1276.48 --> 1277.74] Joseph must have had -[1277.74 --> 1278.72] as his past -[1278.72 --> 1279.28] came back -[1279.28 --> 1280.20] into his present. -[1280.20 --> 1281.96] But if there is -[1281.96 --> 1282.64] one thing -[1282.64 --> 1284.00] both his past -[1284.00 --> 1284.72] and his present -[1284.72 --> 1285.76] had taught Joseph -[1285.76 --> 1286.36] by now, -[1286.52 --> 1287.66] it was to always -[1287.66 --> 1288.52] see the bigger -[1288.52 --> 1289.06] picture, -[1290.56 --> 1292.74] God's picture. -[1294.34 --> 1295.68] And that bigger -[1295.68 --> 1296.12] picture, -[1296.34 --> 1297.24] both in Genesis -[1297.24 --> 1298.52] and in the whole -[1298.52 --> 1298.96] Bible, -[1299.20 --> 1299.84] and the key -[1299.84 --> 1300.80] to understanding -[1300.80 --> 1301.92] Joseph's actions -[1301.92 --> 1303.08] is the promise -[1303.08 --> 1303.74] of God -[1303.74 --> 1304.68] to Abraham -[1304.68 --> 1305.60] to bless him -[1305.60 --> 1306.46] and his descendants -[1306.46 --> 1307.66] and through them -[1307.66 --> 1308.82] to bless all -[1308.82 --> 1309.40] the peoples -[1309.40 --> 1310.30] of the earth. -[1312.42 --> 1313.42] The tip-off -[1313.42 --> 1314.30] is verse 9, -[1314.96 --> 1315.60] when Joseph's -[1315.60 --> 1316.16] brothers bowed -[1316.16 --> 1316.64] before him -[1316.64 --> 1317.28] and then it says, -[1317.66 --> 1318.14] then Joseph -[1318.14 --> 1318.94] remembered -[1318.94 --> 1320.24] his dream -[1320.24 --> 1321.08] about them. -[1321.94 --> 1322.54] And you know -[1322.54 --> 1323.56] what dreams he meant, -[1323.90 --> 1324.40] don't you? -[1325.40 --> 1325.96] You go back -[1325.96 --> 1326.60] to the beginning -[1326.60 --> 1327.66] of Joseph's story, -[1328.22 --> 1329.34] Genesis 37, -[1329.60 --> 1330.50] verses 7, -[1330.92 --> 1331.56] verse 9, -[1331.94 --> 1332.74] about his brothers -[1332.74 --> 1333.86] sheaves of grain -[1333.86 --> 1334.86] bowing down -[1334.86 --> 1335.64] to Joseph's -[1335.64 --> 1336.36] sheave of grain, -[1336.60 --> 1337.38] about the sun -[1337.38 --> 1337.94] and the moon -[1337.94 --> 1339.08] and the 11 stars -[1339.08 --> 1340.12] bowing down -[1340.12 --> 1341.02] to Joseph. -[1341.74 --> 1342.94] Dreams that echo -[1342.94 --> 1343.90] God's promise -[1343.90 --> 1344.80] to Abraham -[1344.80 --> 1345.92] that looked forward -[1345.92 --> 1347.06] also to the day -[1347.06 --> 1348.40] when Abraham's -[1348.40 --> 1349.52] great-grandson -[1349.52 --> 1351.08] is indeed blessed -[1351.08 --> 1352.04] and through him -[1352.04 --> 1353.24] all peoples -[1353.24 --> 1353.96] in Egypt -[1353.96 --> 1355.16] and on the earth. -[1355.16 --> 1358.54] it is the moment -[1358.54 --> 1359.50] when more than ever -[1359.50 --> 1360.76] before, -[1360.90 --> 1361.82] up till now, -[1362.08 --> 1362.78] Joseph sees -[1362.78 --> 1364.26] two important things. -[1365.56 --> 1367.04] He sees his brothers -[1367.04 --> 1367.94] in light -[1367.94 --> 1369.42] of God's purpose -[1369.42 --> 1370.08] for him -[1370.08 --> 1371.80] as instruments -[1371.80 --> 1372.54] in the hands -[1372.54 --> 1373.04] of God. -[1374.40 --> 1375.78] And seeing his brothers -[1375.78 --> 1376.40] that way, -[1377.04 --> 1377.98] he sees that -[1377.98 --> 1378.96] if there is any -[1378.96 --> 1379.68] hell to pay, -[1380.44 --> 1381.98] it is God's business -[1381.98 --> 1382.80] to see to it, -[1382.80 --> 1384.18] not his. -[1386.06 --> 1387.74] Joseph sees his brothers -[1387.74 --> 1389.16] in light of God's purpose -[1389.16 --> 1389.68] for him, -[1390.64 --> 1391.54] realizing more -[1391.54 --> 1393.02] than ever before, -[1393.78 --> 1394.98] both because of them -[1394.98 --> 1396.06] and in spite of them, -[1396.90 --> 1397.96] he is living -[1397.96 --> 1398.84] the reality -[1398.84 --> 1400.04] of God's plan -[1400.04 --> 1401.20] for him. -[1401.20 --> 1403.82] What an incredibly -[1403.82 --> 1404.48] twisted, -[1405.26 --> 1406.40] painful road -[1406.40 --> 1406.88] it's been, -[1407.80 --> 1408.64] dumped in a pit, -[1408.80 --> 1409.66] sold into slavery, -[1409.82 --> 1410.74] locked into prison. -[1410.74 --> 1412.64] But here today, -[1412.76 --> 1413.64] Joseph is the number -[1413.64 --> 1415.00] two man in Egypt, -[1415.36 --> 1416.12] really the number -[1416.12 --> 1416.72] two man -[1416.72 --> 1418.20] in that civilized world. -[1419.54 --> 1420.58] And Joseph could only -[1420.58 --> 1421.32] look at his brothers -[1421.32 --> 1422.02] and say, -[1422.76 --> 1423.66] they were tools, -[1424.54 --> 1425.76] they were instruments -[1425.76 --> 1427.80] in the hand of God. -[1428.00 --> 1428.76] They were part -[1428.76 --> 1429.78] of God's means -[1429.78 --> 1430.74] and God's method -[1430.74 --> 1431.68] to work out -[1431.68 --> 1432.46] his plan -[1432.46 --> 1433.02] and purpose -[1433.02 --> 1434.08] for my life -[1434.08 --> 1436.06] and let it go. -[1436.06 --> 1440.48] easy to say, -[1440.56 --> 1441.00] of course, -[1441.52 --> 1443.04] but not always -[1443.04 --> 1443.74] easy to do. -[1444.98 --> 1445.42] And yet, -[1445.56 --> 1446.78] this is the perspective -[1446.78 --> 1449.02] we need especially -[1449.02 --> 1450.36] as followers -[1450.36 --> 1450.96] of Jesus. -[1452.60 --> 1453.40] This is how -[1453.40 --> 1454.18] we need to think -[1454.18 --> 1455.60] about that spouse -[1455.60 --> 1456.04] who said, -[1456.16 --> 1457.16] till death do us part -[1457.16 --> 1458.84] and then left -[1458.84 --> 1459.52] long before. -[1461.32 --> 1462.48] The business partner -[1462.48 --> 1463.10] who left you -[1463.10 --> 1464.54] in serious financial straits -[1464.54 --> 1465.30] when he cheated you -[1465.30 --> 1465.86] out of your money. -[1466.96 --> 1467.90] That child who -[1467.90 --> 1468.80] in all these years -[1468.80 --> 1469.52] hasn't expressed -[1469.52 --> 1470.46] an ounce of gratitude. -[1471.88 --> 1472.60] The parent -[1472.60 --> 1473.26] who's never there -[1473.26 --> 1473.68] for you. -[1474.76 --> 1475.36] The friend -[1475.36 --> 1476.28] who so violated -[1476.28 --> 1477.46] your trust. -[1479.48 --> 1480.40] What would you do -[1480.40 --> 1481.08] if you had them -[1481.08 --> 1482.82] at a point of need? -[1484.40 --> 1485.32] What would you do -[1485.32 --> 1485.94] if you had them -[1485.94 --> 1486.52] over a barrel? -[1489.44 --> 1490.18] Joseph's story -[1490.18 --> 1491.34] teaches us to see -[1491.34 --> 1492.84] those people -[1492.84 --> 1493.58] in light of -[1493.58 --> 1494.40] the bigger picture -[1494.40 --> 1496.42] as instruments. -[1496.56 --> 1497.32] However sinful, -[1497.50 --> 1498.66] however disobedient, -[1499.08 --> 1500.18] however wrongly -[1500.18 --> 1501.06] and unfairly -[1501.06 --> 1502.06] and unjustly -[1502.06 --> 1502.70] and contrary -[1502.70 --> 1503.66] to the will of God -[1503.66 --> 1504.10] they may have -[1504.10 --> 1504.68] treated you -[1504.68 --> 1507.50] in God's hands. -[1508.96 --> 1510.22] As part of God's -[1510.22 --> 1511.32] means to work out -[1511.32 --> 1511.90] his purposes -[1511.90 --> 1512.72] for your life -[1512.72 --> 1513.64] and for mine. -[1514.74 --> 1515.88] Oh, it may be hard. -[1516.44 --> 1517.02] It may be -[1517.02 --> 1518.36] almost impossible -[1518.36 --> 1518.94] at times -[1518.94 --> 1519.84] to see God -[1519.84 --> 1520.18] at work -[1520.18 --> 1521.06] keeping his promise -[1521.06 --> 1521.88] even through people -[1521.88 --> 1522.56] who have caused -[1522.56 --> 1523.52] both you and God -[1523.52 --> 1524.14] pain. -[1525.00 --> 1525.98] I get that. -[1527.04 --> 1527.98] Maybe you'll never -[1527.98 --> 1529.04] see it as clearly -[1529.04 --> 1529.82] as Joseph did -[1529.82 --> 1530.32] at least not -[1530.32 --> 1531.26] this side of the grave. -[1532.48 --> 1533.54] But then part of -[1533.54 --> 1534.24] being a Christian -[1534.24 --> 1535.66] on this side -[1535.66 --> 1536.24] of the grave -[1536.24 --> 1537.28] is that we live -[1537.28 --> 1538.10] by faith -[1538.10 --> 1539.32] rather than by sight. -[1541.32 --> 1542.18] Joseph's story -[1542.18 --> 1543.40] encourages us -[1543.40 --> 1545.34] by faith -[1545.34 --> 1546.98] to thank God -[1546.98 --> 1549.56] not for all circumstances -[1549.56 --> 1551.76] but in all circumstances -[1551.76 --> 1553.26] and to believe -[1553.26 --> 1554.02] that somehow -[1554.02 --> 1555.32] even people -[1555.32 --> 1556.26] who have caused -[1556.26 --> 1557.24] or are causing you -[1557.24 --> 1558.40] pain in your life -[1558.40 --> 1560.64] can and will be used -[1560.64 --> 1561.30] by God -[1561.30 --> 1562.80] to mold -[1562.80 --> 1563.92] and shape you -[1563.92 --> 1564.70] into the kind -[1564.70 --> 1565.30] of person -[1565.30 --> 1566.10] blessed -[1566.10 --> 1567.14] and being a blessing -[1567.14 --> 1569.10] God intends -[1569.10 --> 1569.88] for you to be. -[1571.96 --> 1572.92] Because he saw -[1572.92 --> 1574.40] that bigger picture -[1574.40 --> 1575.94] Joseph saw his brothers -[1575.94 --> 1576.62] as instruments -[1576.62 --> 1577.28] in the hands -[1577.28 --> 1578.34] of a faithful God. -[1578.34 --> 1579.98] a God -[1579.98 --> 1580.52] who could -[1580.52 --> 1581.30] and can -[1581.30 --> 1582.06] shoot straight -[1582.06 --> 1583.68] with crooked arrows. -[1585.68 --> 1586.52] And seeing that -[1586.52 --> 1587.72] Joseph was determined -[1587.72 --> 1589.86] to forego revenge. -[1590.42 --> 1591.02] Vengeance -[1591.02 --> 1592.78] is God's business -[1592.78 --> 1593.90] not his -[1593.90 --> 1595.78] not ours -[1595.78 --> 1597.40] not mine. -[1598.90 --> 1599.56] Joseph could not -[1599.56 --> 1600.34] live in a world -[1600.34 --> 1601.04] where -[1601.04 --> 1603.04] evils of the past -[1603.04 --> 1606.12] became the main factor -[1606.12 --> 1607.22] that shaped -[1607.22 --> 1608.06] his present. -[1608.34 --> 1610.34] in the long run -[1610.34 --> 1611.60] none of us -[1611.60 --> 1612.42] can live that way. -[1613.18 --> 1613.74] In an eye -[1613.74 --> 1614.44] for an eye -[1614.44 --> 1614.74] world -[1614.74 --> 1615.12] everybody -[1615.12 --> 1616.02] sooner or later -[1616.02 --> 1616.78] ends up blind. -[1618.62 --> 1619.56] If the hurts -[1619.56 --> 1620.14] and the evils -[1620.14 --> 1620.78] of the past -[1620.78 --> 1621.90] become the primary -[1621.90 --> 1622.66] guiding -[1622.66 --> 1623.28] and shaping -[1623.28 --> 1623.72] force -[1623.72 --> 1624.78] for your future -[1624.78 --> 1627.18] then none of us -[1627.18 --> 1628.62] have a very bright future. -[1629.98 --> 1630.64] That's true -[1630.64 --> 1631.40] in our relationship -[1631.40 --> 1632.04] with God -[1632.04 --> 1633.82] it's just as true -[1633.82 --> 1634.88] in our relationships -[1634.88 --> 1636.22] with each other. -[1637.88 --> 1638.80] Do you remember -[1638.80 --> 1639.80] what Jesus once said? -[1641.26 --> 1642.46] Love your enemies -[1642.46 --> 1644.56] and pray for those -[1644.56 --> 1645.54] who persecute you -[1645.54 --> 1646.76] that you may be -[1646.76 --> 1648.42] sons and daughters -[1648.42 --> 1649.10] of your Father -[1649.10 --> 1649.66] in heaven. -[1650.66 --> 1651.50] He causes -[1651.50 --> 1651.92] his Son -[1651.92 --> 1652.42] to rise -[1652.42 --> 1652.98] on the evil -[1652.98 --> 1653.52] and the good -[1653.52 --> 1654.40] on the Jews -[1654.40 --> 1655.40] and on the Egyptians -[1655.40 --> 1656.84] and sends rain -[1656.84 --> 1658.10] on the righteous -[1658.10 --> 1659.66] and the unrighteous. -[1660.84 --> 1661.74] Too often -[1661.74 --> 1662.90] those words of Jesus -[1662.90 --> 1664.48] are drowned out -[1664.48 --> 1665.42] by the cries -[1665.42 --> 1666.34] for revenge -[1666.34 --> 1667.80] in each of us. -[1669.02 --> 1669.92] We know -[1669.92 --> 1671.02] how gratifying -[1671.02 --> 1671.66] it can be -[1671.66 --> 1673.14] to see those -[1673.14 --> 1674.40] who have wronged us -[1674.40 --> 1675.66] fall. -[1677.24 --> 1678.38] But haven't we -[1678.38 --> 1679.26] also learned -[1679.26 --> 1681.36] if not in our own lives -[1681.36 --> 1682.20] and in the lives -[1682.20 --> 1682.88] of others -[1682.88 --> 1683.80] and of nations -[1683.80 --> 1685.84] that retaliation -[1685.84 --> 1687.28] is never -[1687.28 --> 1688.64] the end of the matter. -[1689.78 --> 1691.20] It's only the beginning -[1691.20 --> 1693.46] of an endless cycle -[1693.46 --> 1694.84] of rage -[1694.84 --> 1695.58] that only grows -[1695.58 --> 1696.06] hotter -[1696.06 --> 1697.40] and stronger -[1697.40 --> 1699.06] with every new action -[1699.06 --> 1700.50] and reaction. -[1702.28 --> 1703.48] People in our world -[1703.48 --> 1704.12] talk about -[1704.12 --> 1705.38] revenge or retaliation -[1705.38 --> 1706.12] as a way of -[1706.12 --> 1707.46] getting even. -[1709.16 --> 1710.66] But Jesus told us -[1710.66 --> 1711.34] in his sermon -[1711.34 --> 1711.98] on the mount -[1711.98 --> 1713.32] not to resist -[1713.32 --> 1714.24] an evil person. -[1714.74 --> 1715.62] And Paul instructed -[1715.62 --> 1716.14] the church -[1716.14 --> 1717.22] in Romans 12 -[1717.22 --> 1718.58] not to return -[1718.58 --> 1719.58] evil for evil -[1719.58 --> 1720.64] because here is -[1720.64 --> 1721.20] the problem -[1721.20 --> 1722.62] with trying to get even. -[1722.98 --> 1723.68] You never do. -[1724.96 --> 1725.88] You never do. -[1726.94 --> 1727.80] Returning evil -[1727.80 --> 1728.34] for evil -[1728.34 --> 1728.74] leaves you -[1728.74 --> 1729.26] with a memory -[1729.26 --> 1729.92] of two evils -[1729.92 --> 1730.60] instead of one. -[1732.00 --> 1732.98] More importantly -[1732.98 --> 1733.58] revenge -[1733.58 --> 1734.56] and retaliation -[1734.56 --> 1735.72] almost always -[1735.72 --> 1737.36] begin a chain reaction -[1737.36 --> 1738.70] that gets worse -[1738.70 --> 1740.42] as it goes along. -[1741.24 --> 1742.56] It is a rare thing -[1742.56 --> 1744.24] when two people -[1744.24 --> 1744.94] weigh pain -[1744.94 --> 1746.42] on the same scale. -[1746.58 --> 1748.16] Any hurt I cause you -[1748.16 --> 1749.94] will always feel -[1749.94 --> 1750.48] worse to you -[1750.48 --> 1751.40] than it does to me. -[1752.60 --> 1753.58] The two don't -[1753.58 --> 1754.40] balance out -[1754.40 --> 1754.90] and so -[1754.90 --> 1756.80] you never get even. -[1758.16 --> 1758.88] An insult -[1758.88 --> 1759.48] is returned -[1759.48 --> 1760.34] by a shove, -[1760.42 --> 1760.88] is returned -[1760.88 --> 1761.62] by a punch -[1761.62 --> 1762.24] in the face, -[1762.52 --> 1763.02] is returned -[1763.02 --> 1763.92] by a knockdown -[1763.92 --> 1764.74] and several kicks -[1764.74 --> 1765.28] in the head, -[1765.56 --> 1766.12] is returned -[1766.12 --> 1767.28] by getting one's friends -[1767.28 --> 1768.26] and ganging up -[1768.26 --> 1768.76] on the other -[1768.76 --> 1769.84] which finally leads -[1769.84 --> 1770.44] to somebody -[1770.44 --> 1771.34] pulling on a knife -[1771.34 --> 1771.88] or a gun -[1771.88 --> 1773.36] with deadly consequences. -[1776.08 --> 1776.60] Revenge, -[1777.92 --> 1778.98] wrote Lewis Smeades, -[1779.34 --> 1780.14] locks you -[1780.14 --> 1782.20] into an escalation -[1782.20 --> 1783.24] of evil -[1783.24 --> 1785.68] and the only way -[1785.68 --> 1786.14] to get off -[1786.14 --> 1786.86] that escalator -[1786.86 --> 1788.30] for evil -[1788.30 --> 1789.12] to be overcome -[1789.12 --> 1790.48] is not -[1790.48 --> 1791.76] passive -[1791.76 --> 1793.30] non-resistance -[1793.30 --> 1795.70] but active -[1795.70 --> 1797.38] non-resistance -[1797.38 --> 1798.82] an active -[1798.82 --> 1799.68] deed -[1799.68 --> 1800.72] of grace -[1800.72 --> 1802.28] on your part. -[1803.52 --> 1804.52] That doesn't -[1804.52 --> 1805.04] guarantee -[1805.04 --> 1805.98] no more evil. -[1806.28 --> 1807.02] It might not -[1807.02 --> 1807.60] be fair -[1807.60 --> 1808.94] but the alternative -[1808.94 --> 1809.96] more evil -[1809.96 --> 1811.88] is far worse. -[1814.36 --> 1815.58] There are times -[1815.58 --> 1816.54] when it is important -[1816.54 --> 1818.16] to stand up -[1818.16 --> 1818.86] for our rights. -[1820.24 --> 1821.32] There are times -[1821.32 --> 1822.08] when we are injured -[1822.08 --> 1823.40] and justice -[1823.40 --> 1824.38] must be sought. -[1825.46 --> 1826.38] There are times -[1826.38 --> 1826.76] and others -[1826.76 --> 1827.48] take advantage -[1827.48 --> 1828.00] of us -[1828.00 --> 1829.16] and it's necessary -[1829.16 --> 1830.28] to seek damages. -[1832.00 --> 1832.82] We should not -[1832.82 --> 1833.32] misunderstand -[1833.32 --> 1834.30] Jesus' words -[1834.30 --> 1835.08] as an invitation -[1835.08 --> 1836.24] to live as doormats. -[1838.38 --> 1839.44] There are times -[1839.44 --> 1840.06] and occasions -[1840.06 --> 1841.96] when the right -[1841.96 --> 1842.60] thing to do -[1842.60 --> 1844.16] is to fight -[1844.16 --> 1844.92] against the wrong -[1844.92 --> 1845.48] being done -[1845.48 --> 1846.22] against you -[1846.22 --> 1847.26] or someone else -[1847.26 --> 1848.24] but there is -[1848.24 --> 1848.72] never -[1848.72 --> 1850.70] a good -[1850.70 --> 1851.60] or right time -[1851.60 --> 1853.58] for revenge. -[1854.84 --> 1855.36] Payback -[1855.36 --> 1857.06] trying to get -[1857.06 --> 1857.40] even. -[1859.58 --> 1860.58] So how do we -[1860.58 --> 1860.98] deal with -[1860.98 --> 1861.76] past things -[1861.76 --> 1862.80] we cannot -[1862.80 --> 1863.32] forget? -[1864.92 --> 1866.04] Is there a way -[1866.04 --> 1867.00] to remember -[1867.00 --> 1867.56] them without -[1867.56 --> 1868.40] allowing them -[1868.40 --> 1869.24] to dictate -[1869.24 --> 1870.78] our lives? -[1872.46 --> 1873.32] There is. -[1874.32 --> 1875.06] And it comes -[1875.06 --> 1876.06] only by the grace -[1876.06 --> 1876.76] and the power -[1876.76 --> 1877.42] of God. -[1878.42 --> 1879.26] It comes -[1879.26 --> 1879.92] only by -[1879.92 --> 1880.66] constantly -[1880.66 --> 1881.94] being aware -[1881.94 --> 1884.30] of the big -[1884.30 --> 1884.82] picture -[1884.82 --> 1885.74] we see -[1885.74 --> 1886.40] even more -[1886.40 --> 1886.78] clearly -[1886.78 --> 1887.46] than Joseph -[1887.46 --> 1887.80] could -[1887.80 --> 1888.16] and by -[1888.16 --> 1888.80] answering -[1888.80 --> 1889.92] the question -[1889.92 --> 1890.32] that the -[1890.32 --> 1891.14] brothers asked -[1891.14 --> 1891.92] at one point -[1891.92 --> 1893.32] in Genesis 42 -[1893.32 --> 1894.38] when they open -[1894.38 --> 1895.34] a bag of grain -[1895.34 --> 1896.24] and discover -[1896.24 --> 1897.28] that their silver -[1897.28 --> 1898.08] has been returned -[1898.08 --> 1898.52] to them. -[1898.88 --> 1899.60] This question, -[1899.82 --> 1901.10] what is this -[1901.10 --> 1903.24] that God -[1903.24 --> 1904.22] has done -[1904.22 --> 1904.84] to us? -[1904.84 --> 1908.06] their thinking -[1908.06 --> 1908.74] at that point -[1908.74 --> 1909.38] was that God -[1909.38 --> 1910.06] was punishing -[1910.06 --> 1910.84] them for -[1910.84 --> 1911.42] their past -[1911.42 --> 1911.98] evils. -[1913.76 --> 1914.68] But we know -[1914.68 --> 1915.02] better. -[1916.36 --> 1917.16] We know -[1917.16 --> 1917.56] what they -[1917.56 --> 1917.98] don't yet -[1917.98 --> 1918.32] know. -[1919.28 --> 1920.06] That God -[1920.06 --> 1920.80] through Joseph -[1920.80 --> 1921.44] was seeking -[1921.44 --> 1922.22] their healing -[1922.22 --> 1923.96] and reconciliation. -[1924.82 --> 1925.46] A healing -[1925.46 --> 1926.48] and reconciliation -[1926.48 --> 1927.64] that for Abraham -[1927.64 --> 1928.28] and his -[1928.28 --> 1928.78] descendants -[1928.78 --> 1929.42] in the days -[1929.42 --> 1930.00] of Joseph -[1930.00 --> 1930.86] was only -[1930.86 --> 1931.78] yet a promise -[1931.78 --> 1933.44] but that -[1933.44 --> 1933.98] for us -[1933.98 --> 1934.90] is reality -[1934.90 --> 1936.36] as we sang -[1936.36 --> 1936.92] this morning -[1936.92 --> 1938.24] in the cross -[1938.24 --> 1939.34] of Jesus Christ -[1939.34 --> 1940.86] the Lamb of God -[1940.86 --> 1942.12] who takes away -[1942.12 --> 1943.14] the sin -[1943.14 --> 1943.66] of the world. -[1945.10 --> 1946.10] The power -[1946.10 --> 1946.78] of the past -[1946.78 --> 1947.32] for Joseph -[1947.32 --> 1947.86] and us -[1947.86 --> 1949.72] is undeniably -[1949.72 --> 1950.24] strong. -[1951.16 --> 1951.94] It is -[1951.94 --> 1952.90] unimaginably -[1952.90 --> 1953.50] stronger -[1953.50 --> 1954.90] for God. -[1956.08 --> 1956.72] Listen, -[1957.84 --> 1958.64] if God -[1958.64 --> 1959.54] remembers -[1959.54 --> 1960.76] everything -[1960.76 --> 1962.94] God -[1962.94 --> 1963.08] can you -[1963.08 --> 1963.56] even -[1963.56 --> 1963.98] begin -[1963.98 --> 1965.10] to imagine -[1965.10 --> 1966.32] how terribly -[1966.32 --> 1966.98] God -[1966.98 --> 1968.32] must suffer? -[1970.16 --> 1970.80] How can -[1970.80 --> 1971.40] God -[1971.40 --> 1972.30] possibly -[1972.30 --> 1972.92] endure -[1972.92 --> 1974.12] the world -[1974.12 --> 1975.00] if God -[1975.00 --> 1975.56] remembers -[1975.56 --> 1976.34] as clearly -[1976.34 --> 1976.98] as if it -[1976.98 --> 1977.80] were yesterday -[1977.80 --> 1979.14] all the -[1979.14 --> 1979.52] evils -[1979.52 --> 1980.18] ever -[1980.18 --> 1980.92] perpetrated -[1980.92 --> 1981.72] by every -[1981.72 --> 1982.16] nation -[1982.16 --> 1983.06] and every -[1983.06 --> 1983.52] person -[1983.52 --> 1984.28] that ever -[1984.28 --> 1984.62] lived -[1984.62 --> 1984.98] and that -[1984.98 --> 1985.60] lives today? -[1988.02 --> 1989.04] How does -[1989.04 --> 1989.90] even God -[1989.90 --> 1990.34] deal -[1990.34 --> 1991.54] with that -[1991.54 --> 1992.04] entire -[1992.04 --> 1992.66] universe -[1992.66 --> 1993.34] of past -[1993.34 --> 1993.72] evil -[1993.72 --> 1993.98] without -[1993.98 --> 1994.30] just -[1994.30 --> 1995.44] lashing out -[1995.44 --> 1996.44] at every -[1996.44 --> 1997.00] one -[1997.00 --> 1997.94] of us -[1997.94 --> 1999.62] and every -[1999.62 --> 2000.30] person on -[2000.30 --> 2000.64] earth -[2000.64 --> 2001.64] once and -[2001.64 --> 2002.14] for all? -[2003.50 --> 2004.34] But you -[2004.34 --> 2004.66] know, -[2005.22 --> 2006.42] you know -[2006.42 --> 2006.82] how he -[2006.82 --> 2007.24] does. -[2008.84 --> 2009.62] God too, -[2009.76 --> 2010.48] once as he -[2010.48 --> 2011.12] looked ahead, -[2012.06 --> 2012.92] now as he -[2012.92 --> 2013.72] looks back, -[2014.64 --> 2015.48] holds in his -[2015.48 --> 2015.98] memory, -[2016.66 --> 2017.30] above all, -[2017.30 --> 2018.44] the cross -[2018.44 --> 2019.98] of Jesus -[2019.98 --> 2020.48] Christ. -[2021.94 --> 2022.86] As God -[2022.86 --> 2023.82] remembers that -[2023.82 --> 2024.30] and we -[2024.30 --> 2024.70] are not -[2024.70 --> 2025.20] destroyed, -[2026.32 --> 2027.22] so must -[2027.22 --> 2027.50] we. -[2028.50 --> 2029.08] Remember -[2029.08 --> 2029.72] that any -[2029.72 --> 2030.38] and every -[2030.38 --> 2031.16] evil ever -[2031.16 --> 2031.68] done to -[2031.68 --> 2032.56] you has -[2032.56 --> 2033.12] itself -[2033.12 --> 2033.66] already -[2033.66 --> 2034.28] been taken -[2034.28 --> 2035.20] up into -[2035.20 --> 2035.80] God -[2035.80 --> 2036.74] through the -[2036.74 --> 2037.36] suffering of -[2037.36 --> 2038.24] Jesus for -[2038.24 --> 2038.64] the sin -[2038.64 --> 2038.90] of the -[2038.90 --> 2039.18] world. -[2041.06 --> 2041.76] Remembering -[2041.76 --> 2042.34] that may -[2042.34 --> 2043.18] not erase -[2043.18 --> 2044.08] your memory. -[2044.08 --> 2045.60] it may -[2045.60 --> 2045.82] not, -[2045.94 --> 2046.28] in this -[2046.28 --> 2046.80] life at -[2046.80 --> 2047.06] least, -[2047.58 --> 2048.04] eliminate -[2048.04 --> 2048.68] every -[2048.68 --> 2049.08] twinge -[2049.08 --> 2049.58] of pain, -[2049.94 --> 2050.20] every -[2050.20 --> 2050.78] temptation -[2050.78 --> 2051.60] to take -[2051.60 --> 2052.20] revenge. -[2052.70 --> 2052.92] But -[2052.92 --> 2053.60] perhaps, -[2054.60 --> 2055.58] perhaps it -[2055.58 --> 2056.06] helps to -[2056.06 --> 2056.50] remember -[2056.50 --> 2057.70] that someone -[2057.70 --> 2058.60] bigger, -[2059.34 --> 2059.74] better, -[2060.40 --> 2060.98] stronger, -[2061.52 --> 2062.16] more gracious -[2062.16 --> 2062.74] than you -[2062.74 --> 2063.18] or I -[2063.18 --> 2064.90] has dealt -[2064.90 --> 2065.30] with our -[2065.30 --> 2066.44] hurts and -[2066.44 --> 2067.10] will continue -[2067.10 --> 2067.48] to deal -[2067.48 --> 2067.82] with them -[2067.82 --> 2068.48] until that -[2068.48 --> 2068.92] day when -[2068.92 --> 2069.96] every tear -[2069.96 --> 2070.28] will be -[2070.28 --> 2070.64] wiped -[2070.64 --> 2071.36] from our -[2071.36 --> 2071.72] eyes, -[2072.08 --> 2072.84] every old -[2072.84 --> 2073.46] enemy will -[2073.46 --> 2074.38] be reconciled -[2074.38 --> 2075.24] and every -[2075.24 --> 2076.10] bad memory -[2076.10 --> 2076.62] will be -[2076.62 --> 2077.98] deprived of -[2077.98 --> 2078.66] its power -[2078.66 --> 2079.64] to hurt -[2079.64 --> 2080.76] anymore. -[2084.22 --> 2085.06] In the -[2085.06 --> 2085.66] courtroom of -[2085.66 --> 2086.02] the Truth -[2086.02 --> 2086.82] and Reconciliation -[2086.82 --> 2087.52] Commission -[2087.52 --> 2088.10] one day, -[2089.10 --> 2089.80] the shock -[2089.80 --> 2090.14] of the -[2090.14 --> 2091.20] amazing grace -[2091.20 --> 2092.22] in the -[2092.22 --> 2092.68] lives of -[2092.68 --> 2093.04] one of -[2093.04 --> 2093.42] God's -[2093.42 --> 2093.90] children -[2093.90 --> 2095.28] was so -[2095.28 --> 2095.86] great as -[2095.86 --> 2096.20] to make -[2096.20 --> 2097.02] a perpetrator -[2097.02 --> 2098.24] of unimaginable -[2098.24 --> 2098.72] evil -[2098.72 --> 2099.70] faint -[2099.70 --> 2100.58] dead -[2100.58 --> 2100.94] away. -[2103.46 --> 2104.48] Perhaps -[2104.48 --> 2105.34] nobody -[2105.34 --> 2105.84] started -[2105.84 --> 2106.32] singing -[2106.32 --> 2106.78] amazing -[2106.78 --> 2107.24] grace -[2107.24 --> 2108.96] the day -[2108.96 --> 2109.60] Joseph's -[2109.60 --> 2110.06] brothers -[2110.06 --> 2110.48] faced -[2110.48 --> 2110.98] Joseph -[2110.98 --> 2111.86] for the -[2111.86 --> 2112.38] first time -[2112.38 --> 2112.82] since they -[2112.82 --> 2113.26] sold him -[2113.26 --> 2113.88] into slavery -[2113.88 --> 2114.48] over 20 -[2114.48 --> 2115.66] years earlier. -[2116.82 --> 2117.86] The truth -[2117.86 --> 2118.16] is, -[2118.36 --> 2118.78] Joseph's -[2118.78 --> 2119.32] actions -[2119.32 --> 2120.68] in measures -[2120.68 --> 2121.36] that made -[2121.36 --> 2122.04] his brothers -[2122.04 --> 2122.60] relive -[2122.60 --> 2123.54] his own -[2123.54 --> 2123.92] painful -[2123.92 --> 2124.64] experiences -[2124.64 --> 2125.80] might better -[2125.80 --> 2126.56] be called -[2126.56 --> 2127.92] severe -[2127.92 --> 2128.42] grace -[2128.42 --> 2130.04] rather than -[2130.04 --> 2131.34] amazing -[2131.34 --> 2131.84] grace. -[2131.84 --> 2131.94] grace. -[2132.94 --> 2133.74] But for -[2133.74 --> 2134.14] all of -[2134.14 --> 2134.42] that, -[2135.16 --> 2135.80] it is -[2135.80 --> 2136.56] still -[2136.56 --> 2137.48] grace. -[2138.48 --> 2139.12] Grace -[2139.12 --> 2139.56] by which -[2139.56 --> 2139.92] the ten -[2139.92 --> 2140.30] brothers, -[2140.94 --> 2141.38] like the -[2141.38 --> 2141.82] prodigal -[2141.82 --> 2142.30] son in -[2142.30 --> 2142.52] Jesus' -[2142.70 --> 2143.04] well-known -[2143.04 --> 2143.54] parable, -[2144.18 --> 2144.86] begin to -[2144.86 --> 2145.40] come to -[2145.40 --> 2146.18] their senses -[2146.18 --> 2147.90] by openly -[2147.90 --> 2149.02] if unknowingly -[2149.02 --> 2149.96] confessing -[2149.96 --> 2150.42] their sin -[2150.42 --> 2150.96] before the -[2150.96 --> 2151.66] very brother -[2151.66 --> 2152.06] they had -[2152.06 --> 2152.54] wronged -[2152.54 --> 2154.28] and by -[2154.28 --> 2154.94] recognizing -[2154.94 --> 2155.72] the powerful -[2155.72 --> 2156.28] hand of -[2156.28 --> 2156.58] God -[2156.58 --> 2157.38] orchestrating -[2157.38 --> 2158.14] the events -[2158.14 --> 2159.04] of their -[2159.04 --> 2159.52] lives. -[2159.52 --> 2161.12] and the -[2161.12 --> 2161.58] door to -[2161.58 --> 2162.04] God's -[2162.04 --> 2162.70] new future -[2162.70 --> 2163.72] of blessing -[2163.72 --> 2164.18] for his -[2164.18 --> 2164.56] children -[2164.56 --> 2165.84] is opened -[2165.84 --> 2167.08] even if -[2167.08 --> 2168.36] only a -[2168.36 --> 2168.74] crack -[2168.74 --> 2169.92] as yet. -[2171.62 --> 2172.66] For now, -[2173.54 --> 2174.42] that is -[2174.42 --> 2175.16] amazing -[2175.16 --> 2176.42] enough -[2176.42 --> 2176.90] grace. -[2178.22 --> 2178.66] Already -[2178.66 --> 2179.24] now you -[2179.24 --> 2179.76] can hear -[2179.76 --> 2180.70] the Spirit -[2180.70 --> 2181.28] of God -[2181.28 --> 2181.64] humming -[2181.64 --> 2182.32] the tune. -[2183.74 --> 2184.08] Everyone -[2184.08 --> 2184.90] just hasn't -[2184.90 --> 2185.34] caught on -[2185.34 --> 2185.58] yet -[2185.58 --> 2187.36] and hasn't -[2187.36 --> 2187.80] joined in -[2187.80 --> 2188.06] yet, -[2188.76 --> 2189.50] but they -[2189.50 --> 2189.76] will. -[2190.88 --> 2191.12] And -[2191.12 --> 2192.02] knowing the -[2192.02 --> 2192.64] bigger picture, -[2193.46 --> 2194.48] not in -[2194.48 --> 2194.90] Joseph, -[2195.66 --> 2196.46] but in -[2196.46 --> 2196.80] Jesus, -[2198.12 --> 2199.26] so will -[2199.26 --> 2199.52] you, -[2200.18 --> 2200.66] won't you? -[2201.56 --> 2202.44] In the name -[2202.44 --> 2202.72] of the -[2202.72 --> 2203.32] Father and -[2203.32 --> 2203.72] the Son -[2203.72 --> 2204.98] and the -[2204.98 --> 2205.52] Holy Spirit. -[2205.52 --> 2205.62] Amen. diff --git "a/Joseph #6\342\200\224Listening to Your Life (Sermon)_summary.txt" "b/Joseph #6\342\200\224Listening to Your Life (Sermon)_summary.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 2f34fd135fb796deeeee87dc9a88568f8f1613e2..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Joseph #6\342\200\224Listening to Your Life (Sermon)_summary.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,64 +0,0 @@ -• The story of Jacob's family returning to Egypt to buy food during a famine, and Judah offering to take Benjamin in place of one of the other sons -• The brothers are sent back with gifts, double the amount of silver, and Benjamin, but Joseph tests their integrity by hiding his cup in Benjamin's sack -• The steward accuses them of stealing from Joseph and offers to let each brother take responsibility for the missing cup, but they all deny it -• Judah takes responsibility for the boy (Benjamin) and offers to remain as a slave in his place if one of his brothers is found guilty of stealing -• Joseph finally reveals himself to his brothers and weeps loudly, alone with them -• Joseph reveals himself to his brothers and forgives them for selling him into slavery -• The story takes a dramatic turn as Joseph's true identity is revealed -• Judah's passionate plea convinces Joseph that his brothers have changed and are no longer seeking to harm him -• God's sovereignty and plan are evident throughout the story -• The climax of the story is powerful due to the unexpected revelation of Joseph's true identity and the emotional response of his brothers. -• God's relationship with people changes from direct communication to silence -• Joseph learns to listen to his life, dreams, and experiences as a way for God to speak to him -• Joseph finally understands the reason behind his circumstances and sees God's plan in retrospect -• He forgives his brothers and explains that their actions were part of God's plan to save lives -• Joseph's brothers never fully trusted him -• They continued to scheme against him even after Jacob's death -• The brothers claimed Jacob asked them to forgive Joseph for the wrongs they committed against him, but this was beside the point -• Joseph believes that God can redeem any situation, no matter how difficult or tragic -• He explains to his brothers that their intentions were not what gave meaning to events, but rather God's intent and plan -• Joseph describes God as an inventive and creative force who can shape even negative experiences into something good. -• Discussion of divine providence and its relationship to personal understanding -• Parallels drawn between Joseph's story and the concept of finding good in adversity -• Critique of common platitudes about providence and their limitations -• The distinction between offering comfort and truly listening to others' struggles -• The risks of being dismissive or patronizing when trying to offer help -• Walter Brueggemann's book on Genesis discusses the story of Joseph and his brothers -• Two dimensions to the story: human jeopardy vs divine faithfulness -• Human dimension includes real betrayal, grief, weeping, and harm intended by others -• Divine dimension includes rescue, blessing, healing, and God's intention for good -• Neither human nor divine is the truth all by itself; both are intertwined -• The human situation looks bleak due to fear, greed, and suffering -• Absolute certainty about God's plan can ignore human suffering and lead to romanticism -• A God who is involved in human affairs and makes choices on behalf of humans -• The concept of divine providence, which involves a personal God working through individuals -• The distinction between God's freedom and human freedom, with the former not overriding the latter -• The idea that God does not prevent bad things from happening, but rather stays present amidst them -• The role of human choice in shaping one's life, and how this interacts with divine providence -• God's presence and voice can be evident or subtle -• Faith is not about seeking a hidden will, but obeying a revealed one -• Pain and evil are real, and should not be attributed to God -• Understanding divine providence requires careful consideration of its reality and implications -• The goal of faith is not to understand God's will, but to obey it in the present moment -• Bad things happen to good people -• The right question is not why bad things happen, but how good people respond -• Sometimes we know in part why bad things happen to us -• We may not always have clarity or understanding of God's plan -• But through trials and pain, we can gain insight and help others avoid similar mistakes -• Faithfulness in work -• Temptation and perseverance -• Joseph's experience with prison duties -• Obedience to God's will -• Divine providence and faith -• Remembering the limitations of changing past events -• Trust in God's plan for the future -• God's intention behind the crucifixion of Jesus was for the salvation and forgiveness of humanity -• Paul explained that despite our lives being subject to fate or chance, we have a living and faithful God who guides us -• The past cannot be changed, but we are assured that God's love for us in Christ Jesus is unshakeable -• Divine providence allows us to trust in God's goodness and plan, even when we don't understand the future -• The story of Joseph in Genesis 45 demonstrates how God can turn evil into good and use it for our benefit -• The story of God's kingdom and its full coming -• The big picture of God's providence throughout history and in our lives -• The astonishment, joy, and wonder that will come when God's plan is revealed -• The time to explore the mysteries of God's covenant -• Prayer for help to listen to their lives, open their eyes to Jesus, and know they belong to Him \ No newline at end of file diff --git "a/Joseph #6\342\200\224Listening to Your Life (Sermon)_transcript.txt" "b/Joseph #6\342\200\224Listening to Your Life (Sermon)_transcript.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 0bde87f0d767fde967d29f1ae61481c26960ce7d..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Joseph #6\342\200\224Listening to Your Life (Sermon)_transcript.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1509 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 10.92] so this is the sixth installment of our series on the story of Joseph at the end of Genesis and -[10.92 --> 16.20] today we have quite a few I'm not going to announce the scripture readings because their -[16.20 --> 20.54] selections from chapter 43 and 44 and it's going to take me five minutes just to say that so I'm -[20.54 --> 27.04] just going to read them but it's good that they'll be on screen and if you want to read obviously if -[27.04 --> 33.96] you want to read the whole chapters please do so at home because there's stuff that will be missing -[33.96 --> 40.72] but I want to just get to the heart of this story today so we begin today at 43 verse 1 through 9 and -[40.72 --> 49.86] I'm just going to read through everything without any further announcement now the famine was still -[49.86 --> 55.90] severe in the land so when they had eaten all the grain they had brought from Egypt these are the -[55.90 --> 63.28] brothers of Joseph and Jacob's family their father said to them go back and buy us a little more food -[63.28 --> 72.14] but Judah said to him the man warned us solemnly you will not see my face again unless your brother is -[72.14 --> 77.68] with you if you will send our brother along with us we will go down and buy food for you but if you -[77.68 --> 84.84] will not send him we will not go down because the man said to us you will not see my face again unless -[84.84 --> 92.92] your brother is with you Israel asked why did you bring this trouble on me by telling the man you -[92.92 --> 100.26] had another brother they replied the man questioned us closely about ourselves and our family is your -[100.26 --> 106.42] father still living he asked us do you have another brother we simply answered his questions how were we -[106.42 --> 114.90] to know he would say bring your brother down here then Judah said to Israel his father send the boy along -[114.90 --> 122.30] with me and we will go at once so that we and you and our children may live and not die I myself will -[122.30 --> 129.84] guarantee his safety you can hold me personally responsible for him if I do not bring him back to you -[129.84 --> 137.70] and set him here before you I will bear the blame before you all my life so the men took the gifts and -[137.70 --> 144.00] double the amount of silver and Benjamin also they hurried down to Egypt and presented themselves to -[144.00 --> 152.08] Joseph when Joseph saw Benjamin with them he said to the steward of his house take these men to my house -[152.08 --> 160.72] slaughter an animal and prepare a meal they are to eat with me at noon as he looked about and saw his -[160.72 --> 166.44] brother Benjamin his own mother's son he asked is this your youngest brother the one you told me about -[166.44 --> 175.02] and he said God be gracious to you my son deeply moved at the sight of his brother Joseph hurried out and -[175.02 --> 182.34] looked for a place to weep he went into his private room and wept there after he had washed his face he -[182.34 --> 190.00] came out and controlling himself said serve the food they served him by himself the brothers by themselves -[190.00 --> 197.02] and the Egyptians who ate with him by themselves because Egyptians could not eat with Hebrews for that -[197.02 --> 204.92] is detestable to Egyptians the men had been seated before him in the order of their ages from the firstborn to -[204.92 --> 211.20] the youngest and they looked at each other in astonishment when portions were served to them -[211.20 --> 217.44] from Joseph's table Benjamin's portion was five times as much as anyone else's hard to imagine -[217.44 --> 225.82] so they feasted and drank freely with him now Joseph gave these instructions to the steward of his house -[225.82 --> 232.08] fill the men's sacks with as much food as they can carry and put each man's silver in the mouth of his sack -[232.08 --> 238.72] then put my cup the silver one in the mouth of the youngest one's sack along with the silver for his -[238.72 --> 245.24] grain and he did as Joseph said as morning dawn the men were sent on their way with their donkeys -[245.24 --> 251.12] they had not gone far from the city when Joseph said to his steward go after those men at once and -[251.12 --> 256.96] when you catch up with them say to them why have you repaid good with evil isn't this the cup my master -[256.96 --> 261.92] drinks from and also uses for divination this is a wicked thing you have done -[261.92 --> 268.90] when he caught up with them he repeated these words to them but they said to him why does my lord say -[268.90 --> 274.22] such things far be it from your servants to do anything like that we even brought back to you from -[274.22 --> 280.58] the land of Canaan the silver we found inside the mouths of our sacks so why would we steal silver or gold -[280.58 --> 286.46] from your master's house if any of your servants is found to have it he will die and the rest of us -[286.46 --> 293.88] will become my lord's slaves very well then he said let it be as you say whoever is found to have it -[293.88 --> 300.40] will become my slave the rest of you will be free from blame each of them quickly lowered his sack to -[300.40 --> 305.70] the ground and opened it then the steward proceeded to search beginning with the oldest and ending with -[305.70 --> 313.78] the youngest and the cup was found in benjamin's sack at this they tore their clothes then they all -[313.78 --> 319.20] loaded their donkeys and returned to the city joseph was still in the house when judah and his brothers -[319.20 --> 324.98] came in and they threw themselves to the ground before him joseph said to them what is this you have -[324.98 --> 331.88] done don't you know that a man like me can find things out by divination what can we say to my lord -[331.88 --> 338.52] judah replied what can we say how can we prove our innocence god has uncovered your servant's guilt -[338.52 --> 343.56] we are now my lord's slaves we ourselves and the one who was found to have the cup -[343.56 --> 350.28] but joseph said far be it from me to do such a thing only the man who was found to have the cup -[350.28 --> 357.86] will become my slave the rest of you go back to your father in peace then judah went up to him and said -[357.86 --> 364.86] so now if the boy is not with us when i go back to your servant my father and if my father whose -[364.86 --> 371.76] life is closely bound up with the boy's life sees that the boy is not there he will die your servants -[371.76 --> 377.78] will bring the gray head of our father down to the grave in sorrow your servant guaranteed the boy's -[377.78 --> 384.68] safety to my father i said if i do not bring him back to you i will bear the blame before you my father -[384.68 --> 391.48] all my life now then please let your servant remain here as my lord's slave in place of the boy -[391.48 --> 397.68] and let the boy return with his brothers how can i go back to my father if the boy is not with me -[397.68 --> 402.44] no do not let me see the misery that would come on my father -[402.44 --> 411.58] then joseph could no longer control himself before all his attendance and he cried out have everyone -[411.58 --> 418.26] leave my presence so there was no one with joseph when he made himself known to his brothers -[418.26 --> 426.82] and he wept so loudly that the egyptians heard him and pharaoh's household heard about it joseph said -[426.82 --> 435.08] to his brothers i am joseph is my father still living but his brothers were not able to answer him -[435.08 --> 442.96] because they were terrified at his presence then joseph said to his brothers come close to me -[442.96 --> 451.72] when they had done so he said i am your brother joseph the one you sold into egypt and now do not -[451.72 --> 458.40] be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here because it was to save lives that -[458.40 --> 464.80] god sent me ahead of you for two years now there has been famine in the land and for the next five -[464.80 --> 470.92] years there will be no plowing and reaping but god sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant -[470.92 --> 477.60] on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance so then it was not you who sent me here -[477.60 --> 481.68] but god this is the word of the lord -[481.68 --> 491.96] so as we watch what happens in joseph's story today -[491.96 --> 499.88] i can't help but think of that famous scene from mark twain's book the adventures of tom sawyer -[499.88 --> 512.26] tom sawyer huckleberry finn and joe harper stinkers rotters one and all had set sail on a raft down the -[512.26 --> 521.62] mississippi river to become pirates but without telling anyone after many days their families concluded -[521.62 --> 528.84] they were lost and dead and so a funeral was planned for them on a sunday morning -[528.84 --> 536.10] at sunday school that day all people could talk about was the three boys and after sunday school -[536.10 --> 544.38] everyone filed solemnly into the sanctuary for the memorial service as the preacher began to talk about -[544.38 --> 551.46] those three lost boys he told stories so moving and so touching that the people felt pangs of guilt -[551.46 --> 555.32] for not having seen such good in these boys when they lived -[555.32 --> 564.36] but only their many faults and their flaws soon everybody was sobbing in grief -[564.36 --> 577.40] now what nobody knows but we do is that tom and joe and huck had come home and they were hiding in the balcony to watch their own funeral -[577.40 --> 584.34] but it doesn't make the moment any less wonderful and dramatic when at the end of the sermon -[584.34 --> 592.34] everyone hears this rustle in the back of the balcony and then the back door creaking open and to everyone's shock -[592.34 --> 598.08] the three boys come down the aisle with the whole congregation rushing to embrace them -[598.08 --> 601.74] the minister shouting praise god from whom all blessings flow -[601.74 --> 606.28] some stories -[606.28 --> 609.28] pack a punch because the climax -[609.28 --> 612.04] is something you did not see coming -[612.04 --> 615.94] the villain ends up being the last person you suspected -[615.94 --> 619.58] the hero you've grown to identify with -[619.58 --> 622.36] and love is suddenly killed -[622.36 --> 631.40] other times the climax is something you've seen coming all along but you still sit on the edge of your seat to see that moment happen -[631.40 --> 634.52] and the fact that you knew it was coming -[634.52 --> 637.56] doesn't make it any less dramatic -[637.56 --> 643.40] it's like that with the story of tom and huck and joe -[643.40 --> 647.18] we knowing the boys were alive everybody else thinking they were dead -[647.18 --> 653.10] it is like that with the climax of the joseph story too isn't it -[653.10 --> 656.82] the story began with two dreams -[656.82 --> 659.66] then took a terrible twist -[659.66 --> 662.68] with joseph's apparent death -[662.68 --> 665.66] but we've known all along -[665.66 --> 667.62] that joseph was not dead -[667.62 --> 669.74] so neither were the dreams -[669.74 --> 672.14] we've known all along -[672.14 --> 673.32] about the secret guilt -[673.32 --> 675.58] that the brothers carried with them every day -[675.58 --> 677.66] since they had sold joseph into slavery -[677.66 --> 680.46] and lied to their old father about it -[680.46 --> 683.62] we have known since three chapters ago -[683.62 --> 685.74] that the stern governor of egypt -[685.74 --> 687.90] before whom jacob's sons bowed -[687.90 --> 689.20] and at whose hands -[689.20 --> 691.00] they were treated so harshly -[691.00 --> 692.12] was joseph -[692.12 --> 695.48] all along the story so far -[695.48 --> 697.80] we have known things jacob did not know -[697.80 --> 699.74] that the brothers did not know -[699.74 --> 702.16] that even joseph himself missed -[702.16 --> 707.98] and so we have seen genesis 45 coming -[707.98 --> 713.08] but that does not make it any less dramatic or powerful does it -[713.08 --> 716.92] and it is judah of all people -[716.92 --> 721.28] judah whose idea it had been to sell his brother -[721.28 --> 725.80] who had treated his daughter-in-law tamar so shamefully -[725.80 --> 730.28] it is judah who brings the story to its climax -[730.28 --> 734.20] the hard mask joseph had worn up to now -[734.20 --> 735.86] in his dealings with his brothers -[735.86 --> 740.38] finally cracks before judah's passionate commitment -[740.38 --> 742.30] to his old father jacob -[742.30 --> 745.28] and judah's plea that he be allowed -[745.28 --> 747.96] to take little brother benjamin's place -[747.96 --> 749.98] as joseph's slave -[749.98 --> 752.80] finally convinced -[752.80 --> 756.24] that his brothers really had changed -[756.24 --> 759.86] and no longer able to control himself -[759.86 --> 763.54] joseph reveals himself to his brothers -[763.54 --> 766.60] i am joseph -[766.60 --> 769.94] and would you not have loved -[769.94 --> 771.74] to see their faces -[771.74 --> 774.20] at that precise moment -[774.20 --> 780.18] but what makes this climax so powerful -[780.18 --> 784.36] is not just that joseph reveals himself -[784.36 --> 789.40] here the main character of the book of genesis -[789.40 --> 791.34] reveals himself -[791.34 --> 796.18] here the main character of the book of genesis -[796.18 --> 800.34] who you could argue had been missing up until this point -[800.34 --> 804.66] finally also shows up -[804.66 --> 807.00] god -[807.00 --> 811.80] before joseph's story -[811.80 --> 814.26] god was easy to find -[814.26 --> 818.12] in the beginning god walked and talked with adam and eve -[818.12 --> 819.32] in the garden every day -[819.32 --> 823.88] noah abraham isaac jacob -[823.88 --> 826.84] they all heard the voice of god -[826.84 --> 829.30] telling them exactly what to do -[829.30 --> 832.20] exactly what was going to happen -[832.20 --> 835.50] but that all changed -[835.50 --> 837.48] with the beginning of the joseph story -[837.48 --> 841.66] god had become silent -[841.66 --> 843.94] not absent -[843.94 --> 845.56] just silent -[845.56 --> 849.20] in joseph's life up to now -[849.20 --> 851.10] there were no divine speeches -[851.10 --> 853.76] there were no set of instructions -[853.76 --> 857.58] there were no obvious proofs of god's presence -[857.58 --> 861.78] when joseph wanted to hear the voice of god -[861.78 --> 863.72] he listened -[863.72 --> 865.06] to his life -[865.06 --> 867.46] to his dreams -[867.46 --> 870.18] to the people he met along the way -[870.18 --> 873.14] to the things that happened to him each day -[873.14 --> 873.80] whether good -[873.80 --> 874.66] or evil -[874.66 --> 877.78] these were how god spoke -[877.78 --> 878.60] to joseph -[878.60 --> 879.20] except -[879.20 --> 881.94] that none of it made a whole lot of sense -[881.94 --> 882.90] in bits and pieces -[882.90 --> 884.86] joseph -[884.86 --> 886.70] but when his brother showed up -[886.70 --> 889.44] joseph began to see -[889.44 --> 890.32] a pattern -[890.32 --> 894.24] and now in this moment of revelation -[894.24 --> 895.06] with his brothers -[895.06 --> 895.82] joseph -[895.82 --> 896.88] finally -[896.88 --> 898.68] and fully gets it -[898.68 --> 900.36] the lights went on -[900.36 --> 902.82] i am your brother -[902.82 --> 903.90] joseph -[903.90 --> 906.90] and now do not be distressed -[906.90 --> 909.28] and do not be angry with yourselves -[909.28 --> 910.98] for selling me here -[910.98 --> 913.80] because it was to save lives -[913.80 --> 915.64] that god -[915.64 --> 917.38] sent me -[917.38 --> 918.50] ahead of you -[918.50 --> 920.42] suddenly -[920.42 --> 921.98] it's all clear to joseph -[921.98 --> 923.60] nobody explains it to him -[923.60 --> 924.78] looking back -[924.78 --> 926.36] now he just sees -[926.36 --> 928.26] god's fingerprints -[928.26 --> 930.48] all over the place -[930.48 --> 933.92] his brothers clearly did not -[933.92 --> 935.96] which is why joseph says it -[935.96 --> 937.10] three times -[937.10 --> 937.78] did you catch that -[937.78 --> 939.76] three times in genesis 45 -[939.76 --> 941.32] in verses 5 -[941.32 --> 942.34] 7 and 8 -[942.34 --> 944.22] god sent me ahead of you -[944.22 --> 946.44] but god sent me ahead of you -[946.44 --> 948.10] so then it was not you -[948.10 --> 949.32] who sent me here -[949.32 --> 950.40] but god -[950.40 --> 954.62] although joseph had already -[954.62 --> 956.92] forgiven them for what they had done to them -[956.92 --> 957.84] to him -[957.84 --> 960.06] their guilt still made them -[960.06 --> 960.90] afraid -[960.90 --> 962.14] of joseph -[962.14 --> 963.20] after all -[963.20 --> 965.84] ten against one -[965.84 --> 968.30] they had thrown him into a pit -[968.30 --> 969.84] to die -[969.84 --> 972.78] then they sold him for a profit -[972.78 --> 974.20] rather than kill him for nothing -[974.20 --> 976.56] then they lied to their father -[976.56 --> 977.48] about his fate -[977.48 --> 978.32] all of that -[978.32 --> 980.32] and everything in between -[980.32 --> 981.96] and now -[981.96 --> 983.84] he was saving their lives -[983.84 --> 987.36] it would have been easier -[987.36 --> 989.68] if he had beaten them first -[989.68 --> 993.18] or made them his slaves -[993.18 --> 994.26] for life -[994.26 --> 996.86] they might have understood that better -[996.86 --> 998.30] because that is how the world -[998.30 --> 999.04] usually works -[999.04 --> 999.30] right -[999.30 --> 1000.04] crime -[1000.04 --> 1001.38] and punishment -[1001.38 --> 1003.24] do the crime -[1003.24 --> 1004.46] you do the time -[1004.46 --> 1006.92] retaliation and revenge -[1006.92 --> 1008.18] there is often no place -[1008.18 --> 1009.60] for grace -[1009.60 --> 1013.82] but that's not how joseph sees it -[1013.82 --> 1016.46] when he looked at his life -[1016.46 --> 1019.48] he did not see a series of senseless tragedies -[1019.48 --> 1021.90] he didn't see himself -[1021.90 --> 1023.04] as anybody's victim -[1023.04 --> 1026.02] he saw a lighted path -[1026.02 --> 1028.18] that went through a pit -[1028.18 --> 1029.34] in the ground -[1029.34 --> 1030.94] then down to Egypt -[1030.94 --> 1032.62] winding for years -[1032.62 --> 1034.34] through pharaoh's prison system -[1034.34 --> 1035.32] until finally -[1035.32 --> 1037.22] the road led straight -[1037.22 --> 1038.38] to where he stood -[1038.38 --> 1039.46] this day -[1039.46 --> 1041.98] it was not you -[1041.98 --> 1043.12] who sent me here -[1043.12 --> 1045.26] but god -[1045.26 --> 1048.48] sadly -[1048.48 --> 1050.60] up to the day -[1050.60 --> 1052.00] that father jacob died -[1052.00 --> 1052.72] his brothers -[1052.72 --> 1054.46] never really got it -[1054.46 --> 1056.62] joseph -[1056.62 --> 1058.26] remained a mystery to them -[1058.26 --> 1060.98] and they never fully trusted him -[1060.98 --> 1062.00] because no sooner -[1062.00 --> 1063.58] is father jacob dead -[1063.58 --> 1064.16] and buried -[1064.16 --> 1065.38] and they were right back -[1065.38 --> 1066.02] at it again -[1066.02 --> 1068.42] scheming to save their lives -[1068.42 --> 1070.04] bowing before joseph -[1070.04 --> 1070.62] once more -[1070.62 --> 1072.06] we read in the last chapter -[1072.06 --> 1073.06] of genesis -[1073.06 --> 1073.90] chapter 50 -[1073.90 --> 1075.90] that this is what they say to joseph -[1075.90 --> 1078.94] your father left these instructions -[1078.94 --> 1079.90] before he died -[1079.90 --> 1082.54] this is what you are to say to joseph -[1082.54 --> 1084.78] i ask you to forgive your brothers -[1084.78 --> 1086.48] the sins and the wrongs they committed -[1086.48 --> 1088.14] in treating you so badly -[1088.14 --> 1090.46] now please forgive the sins -[1090.46 --> 1091.84] of the servants of the god -[1091.84 --> 1092.84] of your father -[1092.84 --> 1094.92] now we don't know -[1094.92 --> 1097.58] if father jacob really said that or not -[1097.58 --> 1100.86] but it was entirely beside the point -[1100.86 --> 1102.24] because for joseph -[1102.24 --> 1104.26] nothing was beyond -[1104.26 --> 1106.74] the creative power of god -[1106.74 --> 1108.52] not lies -[1108.52 --> 1110.22] not treachery -[1110.22 --> 1112.06] not years in prison -[1112.06 --> 1113.38] not death -[1113.38 --> 1116.80] as terrible as all the things -[1116.80 --> 1118.62] that had happened to joseph were -[1118.62 --> 1121.18] they were also redeemable -[1121.18 --> 1123.76] in god's hands -[1123.76 --> 1125.84] by themselves -[1125.84 --> 1127.12] they had no meaning -[1127.12 --> 1128.48] their meaning -[1128.48 --> 1128.50] their meaning -[1128.50 --> 1130.06] was what god -[1130.06 --> 1131.28] and what joseph -[1131.28 --> 1132.60] made of them -[1132.60 --> 1135.48] and so once more -[1135.48 --> 1136.52] joseph does not -[1136.52 --> 1137.14] blame -[1137.14 --> 1138.14] but he explains -[1138.14 --> 1138.56] and says -[1138.56 --> 1140.02] you intended to harm me -[1140.02 --> 1141.44] but god intended it -[1141.44 --> 1142.28] for good -[1142.28 --> 1144.78] the brothers thought -[1144.78 --> 1145.68] they were in charge -[1145.68 --> 1146.78] of the meaning of things -[1146.78 --> 1148.20] that if they meant harm -[1148.20 --> 1149.08] when they sold joseph -[1149.08 --> 1149.74] into slavery -[1149.74 --> 1150.34] well then -[1150.34 --> 1151.70] even if they were sorry -[1151.70 --> 1152.28] afterwards -[1152.28 --> 1153.78] the harm could not be undone -[1153.78 --> 1155.06] and their guilt remained -[1155.06 --> 1157.66] the one thing -[1157.66 --> 1159.30] they had not -[1159.30 --> 1160.44] and still did not -[1160.44 --> 1161.38] reckon on -[1161.38 --> 1162.58] was the intent -[1162.58 --> 1163.26] of god -[1163.26 --> 1165.12] and god -[1165.12 --> 1166.04] joseph does his -[1166.04 --> 1167.52] very best to explain -[1167.52 --> 1169.90] is an inventive god -[1169.90 --> 1171.52] god is like one of those -[1171.52 --> 1172.80] genius sculptors -[1172.80 --> 1173.78] who can make art -[1173.78 --> 1174.50] out of anything -[1174.50 --> 1175.96] give him a tire rim -[1175.96 --> 1177.44] give him a wrecked bicycle -[1177.44 --> 1178.62] the brass bed post -[1178.62 --> 1179.90] some old duck work -[1179.90 --> 1181.30] and he'll weld it all -[1181.30 --> 1182.30] into an eagle -[1182.30 --> 1183.86] nothing -[1183.86 --> 1185.40] is too bent -[1185.40 --> 1186.16] to be used -[1186.16 --> 1187.46] not even tragedies -[1187.46 --> 1189.68] not even bad decisions -[1189.68 --> 1190.78] not even plain -[1190.78 --> 1192.74] human meanness -[1192.74 --> 1196.18] you intended to harm me -[1196.18 --> 1196.96] said joseph -[1196.96 --> 1198.34] who was a living work -[1198.34 --> 1198.80] of art -[1198.80 --> 1200.96] but god -[1200.96 --> 1202.44] intended it -[1202.44 --> 1203.88] shaped it -[1203.88 --> 1205.16] for good -[1205.16 --> 1209.40] that is joseph's -[1209.40 --> 1209.96] conclusion -[1209.96 --> 1211.66] as he listened -[1211.66 --> 1212.90] to his own life -[1212.90 --> 1214.54] and the climactic -[1214.54 --> 1215.44] point and meaning -[1215.44 --> 1216.94] of the whole story -[1216.94 --> 1218.24] in the first place -[1218.24 --> 1220.12] god's plan -[1220.12 --> 1220.88] and desire -[1220.88 --> 1221.60] and promise -[1221.60 --> 1222.20] to bless -[1222.20 --> 1222.74] abraham -[1222.74 --> 1224.66] and his descendants -[1224.66 --> 1226.12] and to bless -[1226.12 --> 1227.12] all peoples -[1227.12 --> 1228.06] egyptians -[1228.06 --> 1228.86] and everyone else -[1228.86 --> 1229.38] on earth -[1229.38 --> 1230.44] through them -[1230.44 --> 1232.20] no matter what -[1232.20 --> 1234.36] to bless -[1234.36 --> 1236.28] even you -[1236.28 --> 1237.72] no matter what -[1237.72 --> 1240.06] even though -[1240.06 --> 1241.04] listening to our -[1241.04 --> 1241.76] own lives -[1241.76 --> 1243.20] doesn't always -[1243.20 --> 1244.24] even usually -[1244.24 --> 1244.80] perhaps -[1244.80 --> 1245.44] give us -[1245.44 --> 1246.08] the kind of -[1246.08 --> 1246.56] clarity -[1246.56 --> 1247.24] or hindsight -[1247.24 --> 1248.48] that joseph -[1248.48 --> 1249.60] received -[1249.60 --> 1252.24] truth is -[1252.24 --> 1252.80] i think -[1252.80 --> 1254.32] we probably -[1254.32 --> 1254.90] live more -[1254.90 --> 1255.66] with questions -[1255.66 --> 1256.76] than answers -[1256.76 --> 1259.28] the question -[1259.28 --> 1259.58] is -[1259.58 --> 1260.20] how are -[1260.20 --> 1260.72] we -[1260.72 --> 1262.06] to live -[1262.06 --> 1262.78] with divine -[1262.78 --> 1263.54] providence -[1263.54 --> 1263.96] without -[1263.96 --> 1265.36] such clarity -[1265.36 --> 1267.30] in light of -[1267.30 --> 1267.96] anything and -[1267.96 --> 1268.62] everything that -[1268.62 --> 1269.34] we wish we -[1269.34 --> 1269.88] could change -[1269.88 --> 1270.42] in our own -[1270.42 --> 1270.72] lives -[1270.72 --> 1272.24] but can't -[1272.24 --> 1274.64] then joseph's -[1274.64 --> 1275.00] story -[1275.00 --> 1276.76] and conclusion -[1276.76 --> 1277.44] points us -[1277.44 --> 1277.88] i think -[1277.88 --> 1279.06] in at least -[1279.06 --> 1279.82] three directions -[1279.82 --> 1280.82] first -[1280.82 --> 1283.38] it tells us -[1283.38 --> 1283.92] to be very -[1283.92 --> 1284.78] careful of how -[1284.78 --> 1285.76] you understand -[1285.76 --> 1286.76] divine -[1286.76 --> 1287.52] providence -[1287.52 --> 1290.18] you intended -[1290.18 --> 1290.86] to harm me -[1290.86 --> 1291.36] but god -[1291.36 --> 1292.14] intended it -[1292.14 --> 1293.16] for good -[1293.16 --> 1293.60] well -[1293.60 --> 1294.22] yes -[1294.22 --> 1296.06] and we've -[1296.06 --> 1296.78] all heard -[1296.78 --> 1297.38] any number -[1297.38 --> 1298.22] of variations -[1298.22 --> 1299.12] on that -[1299.12 --> 1299.48] theme -[1299.48 --> 1300.04] haven't we -[1300.04 --> 1301.90] god will -[1301.90 --> 1302.52] find a way -[1302.52 --> 1305.38] or the -[1305.38 --> 1305.82] lord will -[1305.82 --> 1306.28] provide -[1306.28 --> 1308.60] or god -[1308.60 --> 1308.98] will not -[1308.98 --> 1309.34] give you -[1309.34 --> 1309.70] more -[1309.70 --> 1310.36] than you -[1310.36 --> 1310.86] can bear -[1310.86 --> 1313.44] platitudes -[1313.44 --> 1314.46] about providence -[1314.46 --> 1315.14] abound -[1315.14 --> 1316.98] and the -[1316.98 --> 1317.34] problem -[1317.34 --> 1317.86] with most -[1317.86 --> 1318.12] of them -[1318.12 --> 1318.60] is not -[1318.60 --> 1319.18] that they -[1319.18 --> 1319.98] are false -[1319.98 --> 1322.86] it is how -[1322.86 --> 1323.60] people often -[1323.60 --> 1324.28] say them -[1324.28 --> 1326.10] with a -[1326.10 --> 1326.94] knowing smile -[1326.94 --> 1328.14] while they -[1328.14 --> 1328.70] pat you on -[1328.70 --> 1329.06] the arm -[1329.06 --> 1331.16] they mean -[1331.16 --> 1331.82] well but -[1331.82 --> 1332.42] instead of -[1332.42 --> 1333.26] feeling comforted -[1333.26 --> 1333.80] more often -[1333.80 --> 1334.46] you feel -[1334.46 --> 1335.04] dismissed -[1335.04 --> 1337.24] there there dear -[1337.24 --> 1337.80] I know you -[1337.80 --> 1338.22] are hurting -[1338.22 --> 1338.68] but I don't -[1338.68 --> 1339.08] really want -[1339.08 --> 1339.58] to hear about -[1339.58 --> 1339.68] it -[1339.68 --> 1340.08] the lord -[1340.08 --> 1340.82] will provide -[1340.82 --> 1341.90] run along -[1341.90 --> 1342.60] now and -[1342.60 --> 1342.98] say your -[1342.98 --> 1343.42] prayers -[1343.42 --> 1347.12] divine providence -[1347.12 --> 1347.86] that is does -[1347.86 --> 1348.62] not mean -[1348.62 --> 1349.48] that we do -[1349.48 --> 1350.18] not look -[1350.18 --> 1350.84] evil in the -[1350.84 --> 1351.66] face and -[1351.66 --> 1352.12] call it -[1352.12 --> 1352.86] exactly what -[1352.86 --> 1353.38] it is -[1353.38 --> 1353.98] evil -[1353.98 --> 1356.74] in his book -[1356.74 --> 1357.42] on genesis -[1357.42 --> 1358.08] Walter -[1358.08 --> 1358.66] Brueggemann -[1358.66 --> 1359.90] talks about -[1359.90 --> 1360.56] the tension -[1360.56 --> 1361.12] built into -[1361.12 --> 1361.64] the story -[1361.64 --> 1362.30] of joseph -[1362.30 --> 1363.16] and his -[1363.16 --> 1363.48] brothers -[1363.48 --> 1365.10] there are -[1365.10 --> 1366.28] two very -[1366.28 --> 1367.24] real dimensions -[1367.24 --> 1367.64] to it -[1367.64 --> 1368.10] he says -[1368.10 --> 1369.12] first there -[1369.12 --> 1369.66] is real -[1369.66 --> 1370.52] human -[1370.52 --> 1371.66] jeopardy -[1371.66 --> 1372.78] real betrayal -[1372.78 --> 1373.66] real grief -[1373.66 --> 1374.54] real weeping -[1374.54 --> 1376.28] you intended -[1376.28 --> 1376.96] to harm -[1376.96 --> 1377.40] me -[1377.40 --> 1380.20] second -[1380.20 --> 1381.02] there is -[1381.02 --> 1382.06] real divine -[1382.06 --> 1382.92] faithfulness -[1382.92 --> 1384.24] rescue -[1384.24 --> 1385.08] blessing -[1385.08 --> 1385.90] healing -[1385.90 --> 1387.20] real food -[1387.20 --> 1388.92] but God -[1388.92 --> 1389.78] intended it -[1389.78 --> 1390.70] for good -[1390.70 --> 1392.52] emphasize -[1392.52 --> 1393.28] one at the -[1393.28 --> 1393.82] expense of -[1393.82 --> 1394.18] the other -[1394.18 --> 1395.72] and you -[1395.72 --> 1396.18] missed the -[1396.18 --> 1396.50] point -[1396.50 --> 1397.88] because -[1397.88 --> 1398.68] neither one -[1398.68 --> 1399.10] is the -[1399.10 --> 1399.42] truth -[1399.42 --> 1400.12] all by -[1400.12 --> 1400.68] itself -[1400.68 --> 1403.16] it is no -[1403.16 --> 1403.74] different in -[1403.74 --> 1404.12] the world -[1404.12 --> 1404.70] in which we -[1404.70 --> 1405.00] live -[1405.00 --> 1406.74] all by -[1406.74 --> 1407.12] itself -[1407.12 --> 1407.64] the human -[1407.64 --> 1408.36] situation -[1408.36 --> 1409.14] looks pretty -[1409.14 --> 1409.62] bleak at -[1409.62 --> 1410.06] times -[1410.06 --> 1412.26] in our -[1412.26 --> 1412.80] fear and -[1412.80 --> 1413.06] greed -[1413.06 --> 1413.46] we do -[1413.46 --> 1413.92] terrible -[1413.92 --> 1414.58] things to -[1414.58 --> 1415.08] each other -[1415.08 --> 1416.68] nations -[1416.68 --> 1417.58] not at war -[1417.58 --> 1418.12] with other -[1418.12 --> 1418.50] nations -[1418.50 --> 1419.18] are at war -[1419.18 --> 1419.50] within -[1419.50 --> 1420.06] themselves -[1420.06 --> 1420.86] and that -[1420.86 --> 1421.22] battle -[1421.22 --> 1422.00] goes on -[1422.00 --> 1422.42] often -[1422.42 --> 1422.98] inside -[1422.98 --> 1423.50] each one -[1423.50 --> 1424.02] of us -[1424.02 --> 1425.90] danger -[1425.90 --> 1426.56] betrayal -[1426.56 --> 1427.26] grief -[1427.26 --> 1428.00] famine -[1428.00 --> 1428.56] weeping -[1428.56 --> 1429.04] these things -[1429.04 --> 1429.52] are real -[1429.52 --> 1429.98] and if that's -[1429.98 --> 1430.68] all we know -[1430.68 --> 1431.40] then we are -[1431.40 --> 1431.92] doomed to -[1431.92 --> 1432.40] despair -[1432.40 --> 1433.04] because there -[1433.04 --> 1433.72] is no way -[1433.72 --> 1434.34] out for us -[1434.34 --> 1435.12] under our -[1435.12 --> 1435.44] own -[1435.44 --> 1436.08] steam -[1436.08 --> 1438.72] but jumping -[1438.72 --> 1439.26] from that -[1439.26 --> 1440.06] to absolute -[1440.06 --> 1440.80] certainty -[1440.80 --> 1442.08] about God's -[1442.08 --> 1442.88] plan for my -[1442.88 --> 1443.34] life -[1443.34 --> 1445.06] is not the -[1445.06 --> 1445.92] answer either -[1445.92 --> 1446.76] not all by -[1446.76 --> 1447.34] itself -[1447.34 --> 1449.78] all by itself -[1449.78 --> 1450.22] that would -[1450.22 --> 1450.78] ignore -[1450.78 --> 1451.34] human -[1451.34 --> 1452.00] suffering -[1452.00 --> 1453.96] and turn -[1453.96 --> 1454.42] into some -[1454.42 --> 1454.90] sort of -[1454.90 --> 1455.36] religious -[1455.36 --> 1456.44] romanticism -[1456.44 --> 1457.78] that dismisses -[1457.78 --> 1458.66] pain and -[1458.66 --> 1459.46] doubt and -[1459.46 --> 1460.20] sickness and -[1460.20 --> 1461.04] grief as -[1461.04 --> 1461.98] failures of -[1461.98 --> 1462.44] faith -[1462.44 --> 1465.10] as though -[1465.10 --> 1465.56] all that -[1465.56 --> 1466.30] counts is -[1466.30 --> 1466.66] the coming -[1466.66 --> 1467.14] victory -[1467.14 --> 1469.30] can you -[1469.30 --> 1469.68] imagine -[1469.68 --> 1470.20] somebody -[1470.20 --> 1470.86] leaning down -[1470.86 --> 1471.26] over the -[1471.26 --> 1471.60] edge of -[1471.60 --> 1472.00] the pit -[1472.00 --> 1472.60] while the -[1472.60 --> 1473.48] brothers are -[1473.48 --> 1473.82] busy -[1473.82 --> 1474.46] bargaining -[1474.46 --> 1474.86] with the -[1474.86 --> 1475.48] slave traders -[1475.48 --> 1476.00] and yelling -[1476.00 --> 1476.32] out -[1476.32 --> 1477.16] don't worry -[1477.16 --> 1477.54] Joseph -[1477.54 --> 1478.34] everything will -[1478.34 --> 1478.80] turn out -[1478.80 --> 1479.38] with God -[1479.38 --> 1479.98] in the -[1479.98 --> 1480.26] end -[1480.26 --> 1484.12] that would -[1484.12 --> 1484.42] be a -[1484.42 --> 1484.72] miserable -[1484.72 --> 1485.40] denial of -[1485.40 --> 1485.68] God -[1485.68 --> 1487.14] the God -[1487.14 --> 1487.42] who does -[1487.42 --> 1487.78] not live -[1487.78 --> 1488.34] way up -[1488.34 --> 1489.00] above us -[1489.00 --> 1489.76] somewhere -[1489.76 --> 1490.20] pulling -[1490.20 --> 1490.70] strings -[1490.70 --> 1491.82] and calling -[1491.82 --> 1492.60] the shots -[1492.60 --> 1495.24] but who -[1495.24 --> 1495.90] lives right -[1495.90 --> 1496.74] here among -[1496.74 --> 1497.66] us giving -[1497.66 --> 1499.08] us our -[1499.08 --> 1500.82] freedom and -[1500.82 --> 1501.48] holding his -[1501.48 --> 1502.32] divine breath -[1502.32 --> 1503.50] while we make -[1503.50 --> 1504.18] our choices -[1504.18 --> 1506.08] sometimes those -[1506.08 --> 1506.78] choices are -[1506.78 --> 1507.50] very good and -[1507.50 --> 1508.70] sometimes they -[1508.70 --> 1509.76] are very bad -[1509.76 --> 1511.42] but either way -[1511.42 --> 1513.02] God does -[1513.02 --> 1514.86] not leave -[1514.86 --> 1517.46] divine -[1517.46 --> 1518.46] providence is -[1518.46 --> 1519.20] about a God -[1519.20 --> 1520.22] who is committed -[1520.22 --> 1520.84] to us -[1520.84 --> 1522.58] and to -[1522.58 --> 1522.92] working -[1522.92 --> 1523.84] through us -[1523.84 --> 1526.16] it is not -[1526.16 --> 1527.04] about God's -[1527.04 --> 1528.34] will overriding -[1528.34 --> 1529.34] our own -[1529.34 --> 1531.82] as writer -[1531.82 --> 1532.52] Barbara -[1532.52 --> 1533.34] Brown Taylor -[1533.34 --> 1534.36] put it -[1534.36 --> 1535.34] it is more -[1535.34 --> 1535.86] like a -[1535.86 --> 1536.34] dance -[1536.34 --> 1538.02] that totally -[1538.02 --> 1538.66] mysterious -[1538.66 --> 1539.34] dance -[1539.34 --> 1540.24] that takes -[1540.24 --> 1540.94] place between -[1540.94 --> 1541.74] God's freedom -[1541.74 --> 1542.72] and ours -[1542.72 --> 1544.44] between God's -[1544.44 --> 1544.70] will -[1544.70 --> 1545.40] and our -[1545.40 --> 1545.76] own -[1545.76 --> 1547.42] in this -[1547.42 --> 1547.88] dance -[1547.88 --> 1548.46] she writes -[1548.46 --> 1549.12] it is not -[1549.12 --> 1550.36] God's job -[1550.36 --> 1550.82] to keep -[1550.82 --> 1551.36] bad things -[1551.36 --> 1552.00] from happening -[1552.00 --> 1553.26] though he -[1553.26 --> 1553.64] can -[1553.64 --> 1554.58] and he -[1554.58 --> 1555.28] often does -[1555.28 --> 1556.02] and I'm -[1556.02 --> 1556.36] sure we -[1556.36 --> 1556.74] can all -[1556.74 --> 1557.24] name such -[1557.24 --> 1557.74] times -[1557.74 --> 1559.80] but bad -[1559.80 --> 1560.28] things do -[1560.28 --> 1560.78] happen -[1560.78 --> 1562.30] brothers turn -[1562.30 --> 1563.00] against brothers -[1563.00 --> 1563.64] people are -[1563.64 --> 1564.14] bought and -[1564.14 --> 1564.50] sold -[1564.50 --> 1565.14] famine -[1565.14 --> 1565.86] devastates -[1565.86 --> 1566.40] the land -[1566.40 --> 1568.60] God's job -[1568.60 --> 1569.32] and God's -[1569.32 --> 1569.72] commitment -[1569.72 --> 1570.70] is not always -[1570.70 --> 1571.18] or even -[1571.18 --> 1571.72] usually -[1571.72 --> 1572.62] to prevent -[1572.62 --> 1573.28] these things -[1573.28 --> 1573.96] from happening -[1573.96 --> 1575.04] God's job -[1575.04 --> 1577.30] so to speak -[1577.30 --> 1579.72] is to stay -[1579.72 --> 1580.46] present in -[1580.46 --> 1580.70] them -[1580.70 --> 1582.18] and keep -[1582.18 --> 1582.68] on being -[1582.68 --> 1583.14] God -[1583.14 --> 1584.10] taking the -[1584.10 --> 1584.52] jumbled -[1584.52 --> 1585.26] wreckage -[1585.26 --> 1585.68] of our -[1585.68 --> 1586.10] lives -[1586.10 --> 1587.22] and making -[1587.22 --> 1588.24] something fine -[1588.24 --> 1588.82] out of them -[1588.82 --> 1589.92] in spite -[1589.92 --> 1590.46] of us -[1590.46 --> 1593.14] sometimes -[1593.14 --> 1594.02] it's obvious -[1594.02 --> 1595.60] and sometimes -[1595.60 --> 1596.16] it's not -[1596.16 --> 1597.90] sometimes -[1597.90 --> 1598.44] the work -[1598.44 --> 1599.02] of God's -[1599.02 --> 1599.32] hands -[1599.32 --> 1600.28] is so evident -[1600.28 --> 1600.90] you can see -[1600.90 --> 1601.42] it a mile -[1601.42 --> 1601.74] away -[1601.74 --> 1603.24] and sometimes -[1603.24 --> 1604.48] frankly -[1604.48 --> 1605.00] you have -[1605.00 --> 1605.38] to dust -[1605.38 --> 1606.02] for fingerprints -[1606.02 --> 1608.16] sometimes -[1608.16 --> 1608.96] God's voice -[1608.96 --> 1609.42] seems to come -[1609.42 --> 1610.08] straight from -[1610.08 --> 1610.40] heaven -[1610.40 --> 1612.06] and sometimes -[1612.06 --> 1612.48] it comes -[1612.48 --> 1612.78] through the -[1612.78 --> 1613.28] voices of -[1613.28 --> 1613.80] strangers -[1613.80 --> 1615.42] or friends -[1615.42 --> 1617.74] when Joseph -[1617.74 --> 1618.42] wanted to -[1618.42 --> 1619.18] hear God -[1619.18 --> 1621.10] he listened -[1621.10 --> 1622.44] to his life -[1622.44 --> 1623.48] all of it -[1623.48 --> 1625.22] and what he -[1625.22 --> 1625.60] learned -[1625.60 --> 1626.26] he told his -[1626.26 --> 1626.60] brothers -[1626.60 --> 1627.74] before he -[1627.74 --> 1628.04] died -[1628.04 --> 1630.24] God -[1630.24 --> 1631.12] sent me -[1631.12 --> 1631.72] ahead of you -[1631.72 --> 1633.72] you intended -[1633.72 --> 1634.26] to harm -[1634.26 --> 1634.52] me -[1634.52 --> 1635.54] but God -[1635.54 --> 1636.40] intended -[1636.40 --> 1636.74] it -[1636.74 --> 1637.86] for good -[1637.86 --> 1640.48] so be -[1640.48 --> 1640.86] careful -[1640.86 --> 1641.52] how you -[1641.52 --> 1642.22] understand -[1642.22 --> 1643.14] divine -[1643.14 --> 1643.82] providence -[1643.82 --> 1645.82] do not -[1645.82 --> 1646.34] deny -[1646.34 --> 1647.04] the reality -[1647.04 --> 1647.54] of pain -[1647.54 --> 1648.00] and evil -[1648.00 --> 1649.68] do not -[1649.68 --> 1649.94] ever -[1649.94 --> 1650.40] somehow -[1650.40 --> 1651.16] suggest -[1651.16 --> 1652.06] that God -[1652.06 --> 1652.70] approves -[1652.70 --> 1653.06] of it -[1653.06 --> 1654.90] and don't -[1654.90 --> 1655.48] expect God -[1655.48 --> 1655.96] to do -[1655.96 --> 1656.86] what he -[1656.86 --> 1657.18] doesn't -[1657.18 --> 1657.56] promise -[1657.56 --> 1658.06] to do -[1658.06 --> 1658.84] for now -[1658.84 --> 1662.54] then -[1662.54 --> 1663.20] second -[1663.20 --> 1665.36] especially -[1665.36 --> 1665.80] when you -[1665.80 --> 1666.10] are not -[1666.10 --> 1666.54] given the -[1666.54 --> 1666.94] kind of -[1666.94 --> 1667.26] hindsight -[1667.26 --> 1667.66] that -[1667.66 --> 1667.94] Joseph -[1667.94 --> 1668.44] was -[1668.44 --> 1670.74] realize -[1670.74 --> 1671.30] that the -[1671.30 --> 1671.76] goal -[1671.76 --> 1672.48] of faith -[1672.48 --> 1674.28] is not -[1674.28 --> 1674.78] to seek -[1674.78 --> 1675.32] God's -[1675.32 --> 1676.30] so-called -[1676.30 --> 1676.88] hidden -[1676.88 --> 1677.32] will -[1677.32 --> 1678.50] this hidden -[1678.50 --> 1679.12] plan -[1679.12 --> 1679.46] in the -[1679.46 --> 1679.94] background -[1679.94 --> 1682.10] as much -[1682.10 --> 1682.52] as it -[1682.52 --> 1683.08] is about -[1683.08 --> 1683.54] God -[1683.54 --> 1684.28] obeying -[1684.28 --> 1685.48] God's -[1685.48 --> 1686.34] revealed -[1686.34 --> 1687.06] will -[1687.06 --> 1689.56] years -[1689.56 --> 1690.00] ago -[1690.00 --> 1691.06] I still -[1691.06 --> 1691.48] remember -[1691.48 --> 1692.08] during an -[1692.08 --> 1692.38] interview -[1692.38 --> 1693.16] on CNN -[1693.16 --> 1694.44] Robert -[1694.44 --> 1695.16] Shuler -[1695.16 --> 1695.62] member -[1695.62 --> 1696.44] of old -[1696.44 --> 1696.72] Crystal -[1696.72 --> 1697.10] Cathedral -[1697.10 --> 1697.52] fame -[1697.52 --> 1699.00] was asked -[1699.00 --> 1699.84] by Larry -[1699.84 --> 1700.26] King -[1700.26 --> 1702.62] why do -[1702.62 --> 1703.32] bad things -[1703.32 --> 1703.72] happen -[1703.72 --> 1704.46] to good -[1704.46 --> 1704.82] people -[1704.82 --> 1707.90] his answer -[1707.90 --> 1708.42] and I -[1708.42 --> 1708.92] didn't always -[1708.92 --> 1709.26] agree with -[1709.26 --> 1709.48] Shuler -[1709.48 --> 1710.12] but he -[1710.12 --> 1710.46] was good -[1710.46 --> 1710.88] on this -[1710.88 --> 1711.58] his answer -[1711.58 --> 1712.00] was -[1712.00 --> 1712.98] that we -[1712.98 --> 1713.40] could never -[1713.40 --> 1713.68] know -[1713.68 --> 1714.16] but that -[1714.16 --> 1714.96] this was -[1714.96 --> 1715.64] the wrong -[1715.64 --> 1716.20] question -[1716.20 --> 1717.40] in any -[1717.40 --> 1717.78] case -[1717.78 --> 1719.42] the right -[1719.42 --> 1719.84] question -[1719.84 --> 1720.54] is this -[1720.54 --> 1722.50] how do -[1722.50 --> 1723.50] good people -[1723.50 --> 1724.90] respond -[1724.90 --> 1726.42] when bad -[1726.42 --> 1726.82] things -[1726.82 --> 1727.60] happen -[1727.60 --> 1731.54] sometimes -[1731.54 --> 1732.52] I think -[1732.52 --> 1733.86] we do -[1733.86 --> 1734.16] know -[1734.16 --> 1735.68] at least -[1735.68 --> 1736.16] in part -[1736.16 --> 1736.98] why bad -[1736.98 --> 1737.28] things -[1737.28 --> 1737.94] happen to -[1737.94 --> 1738.22] us -[1738.22 --> 1739.52] I mean -[1739.52 --> 1740.12] obviously -[1740.12 --> 1740.88] aside from -[1740.88 --> 1741.34] the times -[1741.34 --> 1742.06] that we -[1742.06 --> 1742.52] basically -[1742.52 --> 1743.34] asked for -[1743.34 --> 1743.56] it -[1743.56 --> 1744.96] do stupid -[1744.96 --> 1745.36] things -[1745.36 --> 1747.46] we may -[1747.46 --> 1748.02] not always -[1748.02 --> 1748.32] have -[1748.32 --> 1748.86] Joseph's -[1748.86 --> 1749.32] kind of -[1749.32 --> 1749.78] clarity -[1749.78 --> 1750.38] but now -[1750.38 --> 1750.74] and then -[1750.74 --> 1751.10] there are -[1751.10 --> 1751.46] moments -[1751.46 --> 1751.78] when we -[1751.78 --> 1752.14] catch -[1752.14 --> 1752.68] at least -[1752.68 --> 1753.56] a glimmer -[1753.56 --> 1753.94] of the -[1753.94 --> 1754.16] what -[1754.16 --> 1754.52] and the -[1754.52 --> 1754.80] why -[1754.80 --> 1755.18] of what -[1755.18 --> 1755.44] God -[1755.44 --> 1755.84] is doing -[1755.84 --> 1756.14] in our -[1756.14 --> 1756.38] lives -[1756.38 --> 1756.70] something -[1756.70 --> 1757.08] that we -[1757.08 --> 1757.40] missed -[1757.40 --> 1758.12] at the -[1758.12 --> 1758.40] time -[1758.40 --> 1758.80] but see -[1758.80 --> 1759.50] only later -[1759.50 --> 1760.22] a low -[1760.22 --> 1760.72] point -[1760.72 --> 1761.68] in our -[1761.68 --> 1762.04] past -[1762.04 --> 1762.50] turns out -[1762.50 --> 1762.72] to be -[1762.72 --> 1763.28] the moment -[1763.28 --> 1764.00] in which -[1764.00 --> 1764.30] God -[1764.30 --> 1764.78] was breaking -[1764.78 --> 1765.44] an addiction -[1765.44 --> 1767.64] a great -[1767.64 --> 1768.20] pain -[1768.20 --> 1768.64] that we -[1768.64 --> 1769.32] experienced -[1769.32 --> 1769.76] later -[1769.76 --> 1770.64] helped us -[1770.64 --> 1771.06] to weep -[1771.06 --> 1771.50] with another -[1771.50 --> 1771.90] person -[1771.90 --> 1772.42] in pain -[1772.42 --> 1773.16] someone -[1773.16 --> 1773.60] who might -[1773.60 --> 1773.84] have been -[1773.84 --> 1774.28] alone -[1774.28 --> 1775.06] were it -[1775.06 --> 1775.42] not for -[1775.42 --> 1775.66] our -[1775.66 --> 1776.12] presence -[1776.12 --> 1777.72] a hard -[1777.72 --> 1778.14] knock -[1778.14 --> 1778.94] taught us -[1778.94 --> 1779.24] a thing -[1779.24 --> 1779.66] or two -[1779.66 --> 1780.60] and we -[1780.60 --> 1781.00] then helped -[1781.00 --> 1781.40] a friend -[1781.40 --> 1781.92] avoid the -[1781.92 --> 1782.58] same mistake -[1782.58 --> 1785.72] still -[1785.72 --> 1788.08] because here -[1788.08 --> 1788.68] we always -[1788.68 --> 1788.98] know -[1788.98 --> 1789.76] only in -[1789.76 --> 1790.10] part -[1790.10 --> 1791.92] the right -[1791.92 --> 1792.38] question -[1792.38 --> 1792.88] is -[1792.88 --> 1794.22] just this -[1794.22 --> 1795.66] how do -[1795.66 --> 1796.64] we respond -[1796.64 --> 1797.66] when bad -[1797.66 --> 1798.24] things happen -[1798.24 --> 1800.44] and then you -[1800.44 --> 1800.80] think of -[1800.80 --> 1801.48] Joseph again -[1801.48 --> 1802.06] remembering -[1802.06 --> 1802.84] that through -[1802.84 --> 1803.72] all those -[1803.72 --> 1804.18] years of -[1804.18 --> 1804.42] grief -[1804.42 --> 1804.88] Joseph -[1804.88 --> 1806.12] had no -[1806.12 --> 1806.92] idea -[1806.92 --> 1807.76] what God -[1807.76 --> 1808.14] had in -[1808.14 --> 1808.50] mind -[1808.50 --> 1810.54] he had -[1810.54 --> 1811.30] no guarantee -[1811.30 --> 1811.74] he would -[1811.74 --> 1812.38] ever know -[1812.38 --> 1813.00] what good -[1813.00 --> 1813.66] God might -[1813.66 --> 1814.22] bring out -[1814.22 --> 1814.46] of the -[1814.46 --> 1814.80] evil -[1814.80 --> 1815.72] he suffered -[1815.72 --> 1816.54] none at -[1816.54 --> 1816.92] all -[1816.92 --> 1819.36] but Joseph -[1819.36 --> 1819.92] knew -[1819.92 --> 1820.80] God's -[1820.80 --> 1821.24] revealed -[1821.24 --> 1821.58] will -[1821.58 --> 1823.42] and he -[1823.42 --> 1824.28] obeyed it -[1824.28 --> 1825.24] regardless -[1825.24 --> 1827.42] when Joseph -[1827.42 --> 1828.04] worked in the -[1828.04 --> 1828.68] household of -[1828.68 --> 1829.16] Potiphar -[1829.16 --> 1829.84] he was -[1829.84 --> 1830.56] faithful in -[1830.56 --> 1830.86] the work -[1830.86 --> 1831.18] he was -[1831.18 --> 1831.48] given -[1831.48 --> 1832.78] when -[1832.78 --> 1833.44] Potiphar's -[1833.44 --> 1833.90] wife tried -[1833.90 --> 1834.52] to seduce -[1834.52 --> 1834.86] him -[1834.86 --> 1835.96] Joseph -[1835.96 --> 1836.32] said -[1836.32 --> 1836.88] no -[1836.88 --> 1838.50] while he -[1838.50 --> 1839.00] worked in -[1839.00 --> 1839.36] prison -[1839.36 --> 1839.70] he was -[1839.70 --> 1839.92] made -[1839.92 --> 1840.54] responsible -[1840.54 --> 1841.60] for certain -[1841.60 --> 1841.98] duties -[1841.98 --> 1842.38] because -[1842.38 --> 1843.34] he lived -[1843.34 --> 1843.74] with his -[1843.74 --> 1844.22] God -[1844.22 --> 1845.54] when his -[1845.54 --> 1845.94] patience -[1845.94 --> 1846.62] was tested -[1846.62 --> 1847.38] he endured -[1847.38 --> 1848.32] when power -[1848.32 --> 1848.88] was given -[1848.88 --> 1849.32] to him -[1849.32 --> 1849.84] he was -[1849.84 --> 1850.50] gracious -[1850.50 --> 1852.84] Joseph -[1852.84 --> 1853.30] that is -[1853.30 --> 1853.84] obeyed -[1853.84 --> 1854.22] God's -[1854.22 --> 1854.70] revealed -[1854.70 --> 1855.10] will -[1855.10 --> 1855.94] and only -[1855.94 --> 1856.64] much later -[1856.64 --> 1857.06] was he -[1857.06 --> 1857.48] allowed -[1857.48 --> 1857.96] to see -[1857.96 --> 1858.42] God's -[1858.42 --> 1858.88] plan -[1858.88 --> 1860.48] you see -[1860.48 --> 1861.28] our primary -[1861.28 --> 1861.82] calling -[1861.82 --> 1863.36] as Joseph -[1863.36 --> 1863.94] understood -[1863.94 --> 1864.36] it was -[1864.36 --> 1864.82] his -[1864.82 --> 1866.28] and no -[1866.28 --> 1866.76] matter what -[1866.76 --> 1867.26] happens -[1867.26 --> 1867.68] in our -[1867.68 --> 1868.16] lives -[1868.16 --> 1869.62] has -[1869.62 --> 1870.12] always -[1870.12 --> 1870.50] been -[1870.50 --> 1871.46] and -[1871.46 --> 1872.10] remains -[1872.10 --> 1872.76] no -[1872.76 --> 1873.22] less -[1873.22 --> 1874.90] to show -[1874.90 --> 1876.04] by faith -[1876.04 --> 1877.28] ordinary -[1877.28 --> 1878.18] everyday -[1878.18 --> 1879.08] obedience -[1879.08 --> 1880.64] to God's -[1880.64 --> 1881.06] revealed -[1881.06 --> 1881.42] will -[1881.42 --> 1881.86] in the -[1881.86 --> 1882.16] Bible -[1882.16 --> 1884.80] that also -[1884.80 --> 1885.60] happens to be -[1885.60 --> 1886.52] the only way -[1886.52 --> 1887.84] that we -[1887.84 --> 1888.98] learn how -[1888.98 --> 1889.58] to listen -[1889.58 --> 1890.02] to our -[1890.02 --> 1890.44] lives -[1890.44 --> 1891.72] and see -[1891.72 --> 1892.12] God -[1892.12 --> 1893.00] at all -[1893.00 --> 1896.82] how do -[1896.82 --> 1897.26] we live -[1897.26 --> 1897.88] with divine -[1897.88 --> 1898.52] providence -[1898.52 --> 1900.22] in faith -[1900.22 --> 1901.10] in light -[1901.10 --> 1901.54] of all -[1901.54 --> 1902.02] those things -[1902.02 --> 1902.40] we wish -[1902.40 --> 1902.70] we could -[1902.70 --> 1903.18] change -[1903.18 --> 1903.86] whether -[1903.86 --> 1904.32] past -[1904.32 --> 1904.74] present -[1904.74 --> 1905.40] or future -[1905.40 --> 1906.62] but can -[1906.62 --> 1908.82] then last -[1908.82 --> 1909.88] but certainly -[1909.88 --> 1910.52] not least -[1910.52 --> 1911.84] it is to -[1911.84 --> 1912.22] remember -[1912.22 --> 1912.82] that though -[1912.82 --> 1913.44] we cannot -[1913.44 --> 1914.08] change -[1914.08 --> 1915.10] what has -[1915.10 --> 1915.56] happened -[1915.56 --> 1915.96] in our -[1915.96 --> 1916.34] lives -[1916.34 --> 1917.80] and we -[1917.80 --> 1918.18] do not -[1918.18 --> 1918.42] know -[1918.42 --> 1919.06] what will -[1919.06 --> 1919.50] happen -[1919.50 --> 1920.08] to us -[1920.08 --> 1920.50] tomorrow -[1920.50 --> 1922.46] we do -[1922.46 --> 1922.78] know -[1922.78 --> 1923.88] what cannot -[1923.88 --> 1924.92] happen -[1924.92 --> 1925.44] to us -[1925.44 --> 1928.00] when Joseph -[1928.00 --> 1928.72] himself is -[1928.72 --> 1929.18] about to -[1929.18 --> 1929.48] die -[1929.48 --> 1930.44] he tells -[1930.44 --> 1930.88] his brothers -[1930.88 --> 1931.42] twice -[1931.42 --> 1932.76] but God -[1932.76 --> 1933.42] will surely -[1933.42 --> 1933.98] come to -[1933.98 --> 1934.50] your aid -[1934.50 --> 1935.44] Genesis 50 -[1935.44 --> 1937.96] and he -[1937.96 --> 1938.46] was right -[1938.46 --> 1939.50] wasn't he -[1939.50 --> 1941.36] without -[1941.36 --> 1942.18] discounting -[1942.18 --> 1943.30] centuries of -[1943.30 --> 1944.00] history between -[1944.00 --> 1944.66] Joseph and -[1944.66 --> 1945.02] Jesus -[1945.02 --> 1947.02] more than -[1947.02 --> 1947.46] anything -[1947.46 --> 1948.14] the Joseph -[1948.14 --> 1948.76] story -[1948.76 --> 1949.66] does -[1949.66 --> 1950.50] foreshadow -[1950.50 --> 1951.38] that Jesus -[1951.38 --> 1951.88] story -[1951.88 --> 1953.78] but when -[1953.78 --> 1954.30] the time -[1954.30 --> 1955.84] had fully -[1955.84 --> 1956.22] come -[1956.22 --> 1956.90] Paul wrote -[1956.90 --> 1957.46] to Christians -[1957.46 --> 1958.18] in Galatia -[1958.18 --> 1960.40] God sent -[1960.40 --> 1960.98] his son -[1960.98 --> 1962.76] at no -[1962.76 --> 1963.34] time in -[1963.34 --> 1963.90] history could -[1963.90 --> 1964.40] it be said -[1964.40 --> 1964.94] with greater -[1964.94 --> 1965.86] force that -[1965.86 --> 1966.92] men intended -[1966.92 --> 1967.92] a person's -[1967.92 --> 1968.44] death for -[1968.44 --> 1968.86] evil -[1968.86 --> 1970.46] they condemned -[1970.46 --> 1971.36] the innocent -[1971.36 --> 1972.10] son of God -[1972.10 --> 1972.66] to die -[1972.66 --> 1973.02] and they -[1973.02 --> 1973.74] nailed him -[1973.74 --> 1974.82] to a cross -[1974.82 --> 1977.00] but God -[1977.00 --> 1977.98] intended it -[1977.98 --> 1978.72] for the -[1978.72 --> 1979.56] world's good -[1979.56 --> 1980.40] and for -[1980.40 --> 1980.86] ours -[1980.86 --> 1982.38] to make -[1982.38 --> 1982.74] a way -[1982.74 --> 1983.36] for persons -[1983.36 --> 1983.98] of every -[1983.98 --> 1984.40] age -[1984.40 --> 1985.58] to be -[1985.58 --> 1986.00] forgiven -[1986.00 --> 1986.56] of sin -[1986.56 --> 1987.70] and come -[1987.70 --> 1988.22] into the -[1988.22 --> 1988.66] family -[1988.66 --> 1989.92] of God -[1989.92 --> 1992.68] knowing -[1992.68 --> 1993.16] Joseph -[1993.16 --> 1994.06] we understand -[1994.06 --> 1995.24] that our -[1995.24 --> 1995.92] lives are not -[1995.92 --> 1996.60] controlled by -[1996.60 --> 1997.06] fate -[1997.06 --> 1998.54] not by -[1998.54 --> 1999.14] chance -[1999.14 --> 2000.40] but by the -[2000.40 --> 2000.86] hands -[2000.86 --> 2001.76] of a living -[2001.76 --> 2002.66] and faithful -[2002.66 --> 2003.10] God -[2003.10 --> 2004.96] knowing -[2004.96 --> 2005.52] Jesus -[2005.52 --> 2006.12] we are -[2006.12 --> 2006.68] assured -[2006.68 --> 2008.20] that though -[2008.20 --> 2008.68] we cannot -[2008.68 --> 2009.26] change the -[2009.26 --> 2009.62] past -[2009.62 --> 2010.02] much as -[2010.02 --> 2010.30] we might -[2010.30 --> 2010.76] want to -[2010.76 --> 2011.80] and though -[2011.80 --> 2012.10] we do -[2012.10 --> 2012.58] not know -[2012.58 --> 2012.92] what will -[2012.92 --> 2013.40] happen to -[2013.40 --> 2013.58] us -[2013.58 --> 2013.82] even -[2013.82 --> 2014.30] tomorrow -[2014.30 --> 2015.82] one thing -[2015.82 --> 2016.90] cannot ever -[2016.90 --> 2017.64] happen to -[2017.64 --> 2018.06] us -[2018.06 --> 2019.26] because of -[2019.26 --> 2019.76] what happened -[2019.76 --> 2020.20] to our -[2020.20 --> 2020.52] Savior -[2020.52 --> 2022.62] we cannot -[2022.62 --> 2023.78] ever -[2023.78 --> 2025.18] be separated -[2025.18 --> 2026.54] from God's -[2026.54 --> 2027.24] love in -[2027.24 --> 2027.98] Christ Jesus -[2027.98 --> 2028.96] our Lord -[2028.96 --> 2033.30] and as -[2033.30 --> 2033.64] for all -[2033.64 --> 2034.02] the other -[2034.02 --> 2034.44] remaining -[2034.44 --> 2035.00] questions -[2035.00 --> 2035.38] about -[2035.38 --> 2036.10] divine -[2036.10 --> 2036.72] providence -[2036.72 --> 2038.08] well -[2038.08 --> 2038.72] I like -[2038.72 --> 2039.16] the way -[2039.16 --> 2040.06] the first -[2040.06 --> 2040.48] part of -[2040.48 --> 2040.82] Genesis -[2040.82 --> 2041.38] 45 -[2041.38 --> 2042.46] ends -[2042.46 --> 2044.50] although -[2044.50 --> 2044.88] we did -[2044.88 --> 2045.34] not read -[2045.34 --> 2045.98] these verses -[2045.98 --> 2046.58] this morning -[2046.58 --> 2048.62] but after -[2048.62 --> 2049.12] the shock -[2049.12 --> 2049.74] of it all -[2049.74 --> 2051.74] wore off -[2051.74 --> 2052.58] after all -[2052.58 --> 2053.20] the crying -[2053.20 --> 2054.50] all the -[2054.50 --> 2054.82] hugging -[2054.82 --> 2055.24] all the -[2055.24 --> 2055.82] expressions -[2055.82 --> 2056.76] of disbelief -[2056.76 --> 2057.48] everybody -[2057.48 --> 2057.96] took a -[2057.96 --> 2058.54] deep breath -[2058.54 --> 2059.66] and this -[2059.66 --> 2059.92] is what -[2059.92 --> 2060.54] verse 15 -[2060.54 --> 2060.96] says -[2060.96 --> 2061.98] afterwards -[2061.98 --> 2063.32] his brothers -[2063.32 --> 2064.92] talked with -[2064.92 --> 2065.30] Joseph -[2065.30 --> 2067.58] such a -[2067.58 --> 2067.84] simple -[2067.84 --> 2068.28] sentence -[2068.28 --> 2068.86] afterwards -[2068.86 --> 2069.76] his brothers -[2069.76 --> 2070.92] talked with -[2070.92 --> 2071.26] Joseph -[2071.26 --> 2073.26] it is such -[2073.26 --> 2073.84] a common -[2073.84 --> 2074.38] image -[2074.38 --> 2075.24] with which -[2075.24 --> 2075.68] to end -[2075.68 --> 2076.36] such an -[2076.36 --> 2076.94] uncommon -[2076.94 --> 2077.62] story -[2077.62 --> 2079.38] and yet -[2079.38 --> 2079.70] somehow -[2079.70 --> 2080.26] it fits -[2080.26 --> 2080.60] doesn't -[2080.60 --> 2081.26] it -[2081.26 --> 2082.86] isn't -[2082.86 --> 2083.28] this what -[2083.28 --> 2083.74] we hope -[2083.74 --> 2084.30] will happen -[2084.30 --> 2085.70] when God's -[2085.70 --> 2086.06] kingdom -[2086.06 --> 2087.02] fully -[2087.02 --> 2087.50] comes -[2087.50 --> 2089.52] then the -[2089.52 --> 2090.18] big picture -[2090.18 --> 2090.78] of God's -[2090.78 --> 2091.38] providence -[2091.38 --> 2092.10] throughout -[2092.10 --> 2092.62] history -[2092.62 --> 2093.02] and in -[2093.02 --> 2093.54] our world -[2093.54 --> 2094.56] and in -[2094.56 --> 2094.94] each of -[2094.94 --> 2095.56] our lives -[2095.56 --> 2096.72] will be -[2096.72 --> 2097.22] revealed -[2097.22 --> 2098.14] for everyone -[2098.14 --> 2098.70] to see -[2098.70 --> 2100.52] there will be -[2100.52 --> 2101.42] astonishment -[2101.42 --> 2102.42] wow -[2102.42 --> 2103.98] tears of -[2103.98 --> 2104.42] joy -[2104.42 --> 2105.76] gasps of -[2105.76 --> 2106.34] surprise -[2106.34 --> 2106.92] wonder -[2106.92 --> 2107.58] amazing -[2107.58 --> 2108.04] really -[2108.04 --> 2111.16] but once -[2111.16 --> 2111.42] we get -[2111.42 --> 2112.16] past that -[2112.16 --> 2112.78] we'll all -[2112.78 --> 2113.22] be able -[2113.22 --> 2113.68] to take -[2113.68 --> 2114.16] a deep -[2114.16 --> 2114.58] breath -[2114.58 --> 2116.50] sit down -[2116.50 --> 2117.22] with our -[2117.22 --> 2117.82] Lord Jesus -[2117.82 --> 2118.58] with each -[2118.58 --> 2118.84] other -[2118.84 --> 2120.46] and spend -[2120.46 --> 2121.04] a long -[2121.04 --> 2121.80] time just -[2121.80 --> 2122.62] talking about -[2122.62 --> 2123.04] it all -[2123.04 --> 2125.30] and we'll -[2125.30 --> 2125.90] have plenty -[2125.90 --> 2126.44] of time -[2126.44 --> 2127.08] won't we -[2127.08 --> 2128.66] an eternity -[2128.66 --> 2130.02] in which -[2130.02 --> 2130.92] to explore -[2130.92 --> 2131.60] the riches -[2131.60 --> 2132.66] of the -[2132.66 --> 2133.16] mysteries -[2133.16 --> 2134.24] of our -[2134.24 --> 2134.66] great -[2134.66 --> 2136.00] and faithful -[2136.00 --> 2137.12] covenant -[2137.12 --> 2138.48] God -[2138.48 --> 2140.32] in the name -[2140.32 --> 2140.64] of the -[2140.64 --> 2141.14] Father and -[2141.14 --> 2141.58] the Son -[2141.58 --> 2143.00] and the -[2143.00 --> 2143.62] Holy Spirit -[2143.62 --> 2145.74] let's pray -[2145.74 --> 2147.78] gracious God -[2147.78 --> 2150.40] help us -[2150.40 --> 2151.14] to listen -[2151.14 --> 2151.98] to our -[2151.98 --> 2152.40] lives -[2152.40 --> 2154.82] help us -[2154.82 --> 2155.66] above all -[2155.66 --> 2156.88] every day -[2156.88 --> 2157.44] to open -[2157.44 --> 2158.24] our eyes -[2158.24 --> 2159.68] to Jesus -[2159.68 --> 2161.74] to turn -[2161.74 --> 2162.28] our eyes -[2162.28 --> 2162.98] towards him -[2162.98 --> 2164.20] and to -[2164.20 --> 2164.70] know that -[2164.70 --> 2165.12] no matter -[2165.12 --> 2166.00] what happens -[2166.00 --> 2167.22] good or -[2167.22 --> 2167.58] evil -[2167.58 --> 2168.92] we belong -[2168.92 --> 2169.44] to you -[2169.44 --> 2170.22] for now -[2170.22 --> 2171.54] and forever -[2171.54 --> 2173.16] and now -[2173.16 --> 2173.54] we pray -[2173.54 --> 2174.14] bless us -[2174.14 --> 2174.76] as we come -[2174.76 --> 2175.14] to your -[2175.14 --> 2175.70] table this -[2175.70 --> 2175.98] morning -[2175.98 --> 2177.42] in Jesus -[2177.42 --> 2177.88] name -[2177.88 --> 2179.38] amen diff --git "a/Joseph #7\342\200\224A Coffin Egypt (Sermon)_summary.txt" "b/Joseph #7\342\200\224A Coffin Egypt (Sermon)_summary.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index f13cab0ef6bb7c0fd5457d9c4981dbafc9844ba0..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Joseph #7\342\200\224A Coffin Egypt (Sermon)_summary.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,63 +0,0 @@ -• Jacob's final instructions to his sons -• The burial of Jacob and Joseph in Canaan -• Pharaoh's permission for Joseph to bury his father -• Joseph's return to Egypt after burying his father -• Jacob's age and death at 110 years old -• Joseph's death and the promise of God's aid for his family -• A New Testament reading from Hebrews 11:17 -• Archbishop Desmond Tutu's message about hope in a culture that denies God -• The message to Christians as being on the "winning side" despite challenges. -• The story of Joseph and its depiction in Genesis -• God's covenant promise to Abraham and its significance -• The contrast between darkness and light in the universe and in human experience -• The symbolism of coffins and graveyards, including the cave of Machpelah -• Joseph's character and his place in the New Testament -• The importance of faith and obedience in extreme circumstances, as exemplified by Joseph's story -• The writer of Hebrews commends Joseph for his dying words, which express faith in God's plan -• Joseph speaks about the exodus of Israelites from Egypt and gives instructions about his bones -• A phrase from Rick Warren's book "The Purpose Driven Life" is mentioned: "It's not about you, it's about God's purpose" -• The story references Genesis 15, where Abraham hears a promise from God that his descendants will inherit the land of Canaan -• Joseph recalls this promise and applies it to his own life as he approaches death -• Joseph's old promise from generations past -• Length of time in Egypt and the famine being over -• Joseph's retirement and death -• Children of Israel not yet slaves or prisoners in Egypt -• A new king who doesn't know Joseph comes to power -• Hardship and slavery for his brothers and people -• Joseph believes promises of glory at the end -• God will surely come to their aid and rescue them -• Joseph makes his family swear an oath before dying -• He asks to be carried from Egypt after death -• Resurrection and hope -• Joseph's coffin as a symbol of hope -• Overcoming slavery and hardship through faith in God -• Biblical definition of hope vs Christian understanding of hope -• The role of doubt in the Christian concept of hope -• Hope is found in Joseph's coffin, which symbolizes God's promise of deliverance and redemption. -• The story of Joseph provides hope amidst suffering and hardship. -• Despite God's silence during difficult times, He has not forgotten His people and will come back for them someday. -• Faith is required to trust that God will ultimately rescue His people from slavery and hardship. -• The book of Genesis and the story of Joseph -• Moses leads Israel out of slavery in Egypt -• Moses carries Joseph's bones with him during their desert pilgrimage -• God renews his covenant with his people through years of struggle -• Israel takes possession of the land of promise and buries Joseph's bones at Shechem -• Fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph -• Reflection on human suffering throughout history -• The ongoing struggle against evil, injustice, oppression, and exploitation -• Frustration with the church's lack of progress in spreading Jesus Christ's message -• The significance of Jesus' empty grave as a symbol of hope and new life -• The biblical vision of a new heaven and earth in Revelation 21 -• Contrast between the old order of things and the new kingdom of God -• Living in an "in-between" time, where death still exists but the fully realized kingdom of God is anticipated -• Hope for a future time when God will be all in all and everything will be made new -• The speaker discusses the meaning of a table, specifically a communion table, as a symbol of God's presence and aid through Jesus Christ. -• The speaker explains that the death and resurrection of Jesus mean salvation and rescue from bondage to death and decay. -• The speaker encourages listeners not to give up hope, as God is in control and goodness will ultimately prevail over evil. -• The speaker reflects on the season of Advent and the promise of God's presence with us through Emmanuel (God with us). -• The speaker asks for spiritual energy to dream God's dreams, strive for good, and work towards a promised future. -• The importance of hope in faith -• Reminding oneself and others that hope is real -• The role of prayer in maintaining strong faith and hope -• Living a life consistent with one's faith and hope -• Prayer for strength, guidance, and consistency in daily living \ No newline at end of file diff --git "a/Joseph #7\342\200\224A Coffin Egypt (Sermon)_transcript.txt" "b/Joseph #7\342\200\224A Coffin Egypt (Sermon)_transcript.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index df13ad3971dba98d16979193fec8580675576b4c..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Joseph #7\342\200\224A Coffin Egypt (Sermon)_transcript.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1291 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.58] and just by way of reminder two weeks ago as you know Joseph finally revealed himself to his -[6.58 --> 13.04] brothers and the whole clan the whole kit and caboodle moved to Egypt and now it's a number -[13.04 --> 19.64] of years later Jacob has just finished blessing all of his sons and then he says to them and -[19.64 --> 26.00] that's the beginning of our reading in Genesis 49 then Jacob gave them these instructions -[26.00 --> 30.10] I think you had the wrong reading up there -[30.10 --> 34.74] yeah 49 should be 49 verse -[34.74 --> 45.68] yeah that's the wrong reading okay so I'm just gonna maybe you want to take that off sorry folks -[45.68 --> 50.92] I thought that had been correct let's just listen then Jacob gave them these instructions -[50.92 --> 57.72] I am about to be gathered to my people bury me with my fathers in the cave in the field of Ephron -[57.72 --> 65.36] the Hittite the cave in the field of Machpelah near Mamre in Canaan which Abraham bought along with -[65.36 --> 72.48] the field as a burial place from Ephron the Hittite there Abraham and his wife Sarah were buried -[72.48 --> 80.18] there Isaac and his wife Rebecca were buried and there I buried Leah the field and the cave in it -[80.18 --> 87.14] were brought from the Hittites when Jacob had finished giving instructions to his sons he drew -[87.14 --> 95.50] his feet up into the bed breathed his last and was gathered to his people Joseph threw himself on his -[95.50 --> 103.60] father and wept over him and kissed him then Joseph directed the physicians in his service to embalm his -[103.60 --> 111.88] father Israel so the physicians embalm him taking a full 40 days for that was the time required for -[111.88 --> 121.50] embalming and the Egyptians mourned for him 70 days when the days of mourning had passed Joseph said to -[121.50 --> 129.44] Pharaoh's court if I have found favor in your eyes speak to Pharaoh for me tell father made me swear an oath -[129.44 --> 137.78] and said I am about to die bury me in the tomb I dug for myself in the land of Canaan now let me go up -[137.78 --> 145.88] and bury my father I will return Pharaoh said go up and bury your father as he made you swear to do -[145.88 --> 153.56] so Jacob's sons did as he had commanded them they carried him to the land of Canaan and they buried him -[153.56 --> 159.70] in the cave in the field of Machmela near Mamre him had bought along with the field as a burial place -[159.70 --> 167.02] from Ephron the Hittite after burying his father Joseph returned to Egypt together with his brothers -[167.02 --> 175.98] and all the others who had gone with him to bury his father Joseph stayed in Egypt along with all his -[175.98 --> 185.38] father's family he lived 110 years and saw the third generation of Ephraim's children also the children of -[185.38 --> 195.24] Machir son of Manasseh were placed at birth on Joseph's knees then Joseph said to his brothers I am about to die -[195.24 --> 203.90] but God and take you up out of this land to the land he promised on oath to Abraham Isaac and Jacob -[203.90 --> 215.16] swear an oath and said God will surely come to your aid and then you must carry my bones up from this place -[215.16 --> 225.50] so Joseph died at the age of 110 and after they embalmed him he was placed in Egypt -[225.50 --> 235.48] and then this New Testament reading one verse Hebrews 11 verse 17 the chapter on the heroes of faith -[235.48 --> 242.64] where we read this by faith Joseph when spoke about the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt -[242.64 --> 250.88] and gave instructions concerning the burial of his bones this is the word of the Lord -[250.88 --> 264.92] in a time of deep despair in South Africa when there was no sign anywhere in that sad land yet of a better -[264.92 --> 279.22] future for black people Archbishop Desmond Tutu spoke to a group of white leaders who had the power to see to it -[279.22 --> 288.74] that what Tutu so deeply hoped for would never happen and this is what he said to them and I quote -[288.74 --> 299.10] in the enveloping darkness as the lights of freedom are extinguished one by one I have come here to say evil -[299.10 --> 312.70] and injustice and oppression and exploitation cannot prevail you may be very powerful but you are not God -[312.70 --> 323.04] in fact you have already lost we are inviting you to come and join the winning side -[323.04 --> 336.52] this is the message that we as Christians need to hear over and over in a culture and world that ignores and or denies God -[336.52 --> 341.66] where it is very hard to be optimistic about the future -[341.66 --> 346.28] listen if you are a Christian -[346.28 --> 349.64] you are on the winning side -[349.64 --> 353.04] God is going to win -[353.04 --> 356.84] life is going to win over death -[356.84 --> 358.40] love is -[358.40 --> 359.76] and indifference -[359.76 --> 363.64] peace is going to win over terror and violence -[363.64 --> 366.92] righteousness is going to win over injustice -[366.92 --> 370.30] good is going to win over evil -[370.30 --> 372.60] so don't ever -[372.60 --> 373.72] ever -[373.72 --> 374.96] give up hope -[374.96 --> 376.66] not for people -[376.66 --> 377.38] for yourself -[377.38 --> 379.04] not for the church -[379.04 --> 380.72] not for the world -[380.72 --> 382.78] not for God -[382.78 --> 387.18] such hope is what today's text -[387.18 --> 388.24] is all about -[388.24 --> 390.88] although on the surface it sure -[390.88 --> 392.16] doesn't look like it -[392.16 --> 395.68] we have come to the end of the Joseph story -[395.68 --> 397.50] and not only of the Joseph story -[397.50 --> 399.86] but also of the book of Genesis -[399.86 --> 403.90] and on the surface what a sad -[403.90 --> 406.36] anticlimactic -[406.36 --> 408.06] hopeless end -[408.06 --> 414.06] the book that begins with nothing less -[414.06 --> 417.62] than the creation of the entire universe -[417.62 --> 419.74] and all things living -[419.74 --> 421.48] ends -[421.48 --> 423.24] in a pine box -[423.24 --> 424.86] with death -[424.86 --> 427.08] first -[427.08 --> 428.16] Jacob dies -[428.16 --> 429.26] and Joseph -[429.26 --> 430.10] dies -[430.10 --> 430.80] too -[430.80 --> 434.88] remember the very first words -[434.88 --> 436.18] almost the very first words -[436.18 --> 437.00] of the book of Genesis -[437.00 --> 438.40] God said -[438.40 --> 439.80] let there -[439.80 --> 440.50] be -[440.50 --> 441.36] light -[441.36 --> 443.16] and you imagine -[443.16 --> 444.70] this explosion of light -[444.70 --> 445.68] in the universe -[445.68 --> 446.78] that was so dark -[446.78 --> 450.32] the very last words -[450.32 --> 451.58] in Genesis are -[451.58 --> 454.06] Joseph was placed -[454.06 --> 455.18] in a coffin -[455.18 --> 456.52] in Egypt -[456.52 --> 458.54] and can you think of -[458.54 --> 459.64] a darker place -[459.64 --> 461.24] than a coffin -[461.24 --> 465.62] if that doesn't sound -[465.62 --> 466.68] hopeless enough -[466.68 --> 468.74] remember that you have to see -[468.74 --> 469.62] Joseph's story -[469.62 --> 471.40] along with all Genesis -[471.40 --> 473.10] in light of God's covenant -[473.10 --> 474.56] promise to Abraham -[474.56 --> 477.18] a promise that included -[477.18 --> 478.52] descendants as numerous -[478.52 --> 480.16] as the stars in the sky -[480.16 --> 483.00] and the land of their own -[483.00 --> 485.22] but in the end -[485.22 --> 487.28] Jacob is buried -[487.28 --> 489.64] in the cave of Machpelah -[489.64 --> 490.82] in Canaan -[490.82 --> 493.14] a graveyard owned -[493.14 --> 494.78] by grandfather Abraham -[494.78 --> 497.18] the only piece -[497.18 --> 498.66] of the promised land -[498.66 --> 500.54] to which Abraham -[500.54 --> 501.30] held title -[501.30 --> 502.96] when he died -[502.96 --> 505.76] in the end -[505.76 --> 506.98] God's people -[506.98 --> 508.22] are from Canaan -[508.22 --> 510.22] living in Egypt -[510.22 --> 511.98] in the end -[511.98 --> 513.52] Joseph's body -[513.52 --> 514.28] is placed -[514.28 --> 515.50] in a coffin -[515.50 --> 517.06] in Egypt -[517.06 --> 520.22] where on earth -[520.22 --> 521.56] is hope -[521.56 --> 523.60] at the end of Genesis -[523.60 --> 527.44] well that depends -[527.44 --> 528.40] on your perspective -[528.40 --> 530.62] and what we need -[530.62 --> 531.46] is the perspective -[531.46 --> 532.78] of the New Testament -[532.78 --> 535.60] Joseph is mentioned -[535.60 --> 536.74] four times -[536.74 --> 537.56] in the New Testament -[537.56 --> 539.14] twice -[539.14 --> 540.16] his name alone -[540.16 --> 540.68] is mentioned -[540.68 --> 541.44] in passing -[541.44 --> 543.90] and in Acts 7 -[543.90 --> 544.94] in Stephen's speech -[544.94 --> 545.64] to the Jewish -[545.64 --> 546.64] religious leaders -[546.64 --> 548.26] before they convict -[548.26 --> 548.82] and kill him -[548.82 --> 549.60] for his faith -[549.60 --> 551.56] the facts -[551.56 --> 552.70] of Joseph's story -[552.70 --> 554.66] are briefly summarized -[554.66 --> 556.86] then there is -[556.86 --> 557.34] Hebrews -[557.34 --> 559.02] chapter 11 -[559.02 --> 560.50] part of that -[560.50 --> 561.62] long chapter -[561.62 --> 562.96] about all the heroes -[562.96 --> 563.50] of faith -[563.50 --> 565.84] the only -[565.84 --> 566.58] New Testament -[566.58 --> 567.18] passage -[567.18 --> 568.14] which comments -[568.14 --> 570.10] on Joseph's character -[570.10 --> 571.70] and then -[571.70 --> 573.40] he gets just -[573.40 --> 574.54] one verse -[574.54 --> 577.22] but what a verse -[577.22 --> 577.68] it is -[577.68 --> 578.34] listen -[578.34 --> 580.26] by faith -[580.26 --> 580.82] Joseph -[580.82 --> 582.30] when his end -[582.30 --> 582.88] was near -[582.88 --> 584.42] spoke about -[584.42 --> 585.10] the exodus -[585.10 --> 585.96] of the Israelites -[585.96 --> 586.88] from Egypt -[586.88 --> 589.00] and gave instructions -[589.00 --> 590.70] about his bones -[590.70 --> 593.82] it is such -[593.82 --> 594.60] a striking -[594.60 --> 595.42] verse -[595.42 --> 595.96] isn't it -[595.96 --> 597.02] I mean -[597.02 --> 597.56] Genesis -[597.56 --> 598.18] devotes -[598.18 --> 600.08] 13 chapters -[600.08 --> 601.62] to Joseph's story -[601.62 --> 603.56] and while he's not -[603.56 --> 603.96] perfect -[603.96 --> 604.72] in Joseph's -[604.72 --> 605.14] character -[605.14 --> 605.66] in life -[605.66 --> 606.46] we see this -[606.46 --> 607.54] incredible picture -[607.54 --> 608.20] of faithful -[608.20 --> 608.58] obedience -[608.58 --> 609.20] love -[609.20 --> 610.16] and forgiveness -[610.16 --> 611.16] in the kind -[611.16 --> 611.84] of extreme -[611.84 --> 612.74] circumstances -[612.74 --> 613.54] most of us -[613.54 --> 614.52] will never know -[614.52 --> 617.34] Joseph is one -[617.34 --> 617.76] of the most -[617.76 --> 619.06] winsome characters -[619.06 --> 619.52] I think -[619.52 --> 620.10] in the Bible -[620.10 --> 622.22] yet he gets -[622.22 --> 623.42] only one verse -[623.42 --> 626.58] in the New Testament -[626.58 --> 628.30] and the only -[628.30 --> 629.10] thing for which -[629.10 --> 629.62] the writer -[629.62 --> 630.16] of Hebrews -[630.16 --> 630.88] goes out -[630.88 --> 631.28] of his way -[631.28 --> 631.76] to commend -[631.76 --> 632.26] Joseph -[632.26 --> 634.30] are his -[634.30 --> 635.12] dying words -[635.12 --> 637.40] by faith -[637.40 --> 637.88] Joseph -[637.88 --> 638.52] when his end -[638.52 --> 639.06] was near -[639.06 --> 640.40] spoke about -[640.40 --> 641.06] the exodus -[641.06 --> 641.92] of the Israelites -[641.92 --> 642.90] from Egypt -[642.90 --> 643.96] and gave -[643.96 --> 644.82] instructions -[644.82 --> 645.88] about his -[645.88 --> 646.30] bones -[646.30 --> 650.50] but then -[650.50 --> 652.06] to use -[652.06 --> 652.90] the first -[652.90 --> 654.28] four words -[654.28 --> 656.48] that Rick Warren -[656.48 --> 657.42] passed in California -[657.42 --> 659.84] that he wrote -[659.84 --> 661.12] in his 2002 -[661.12 --> 662.22] best-selling book -[662.22 --> 663.68] The Purpose Driven Life -[663.68 --> 665.32] the first four words -[665.32 --> 665.86] were -[665.86 --> 667.98] it's not -[667.98 --> 669.72] about you -[669.72 --> 672.66] it's not -[672.66 --> 673.58] about you -[673.58 --> 675.56] it's not -[675.56 --> 676.66] about me -[676.66 --> 677.34] either -[677.34 --> 679.90] it is about -[679.90 --> 681.22] the bigger picture -[681.22 --> 681.92] it is about -[681.92 --> 682.44] God -[682.44 --> 683.36] it is about -[683.36 --> 684.32] God's purpose -[684.32 --> 685.14] for and through -[685.14 --> 685.60] Joseph -[685.60 --> 687.08] God's purpose -[687.08 --> 687.92] for and through -[687.92 --> 688.76] you and me -[688.76 --> 690.10] God's purpose -[690.10 --> 691.24] for and through -[691.24 --> 692.04] his church -[692.04 --> 693.42] God's purpose -[693.42 --> 694.44] for his world -[694.44 --> 696.92] it's about -[696.92 --> 697.76] God's promise -[697.76 --> 698.34] to bless -[698.34 --> 698.80] Abraham -[698.80 --> 700.20] and his descendants -[700.20 --> 700.72] and through -[700.72 --> 701.46] to bless -[701.46 --> 702.36] all people -[702.36 --> 702.80] on earth -[702.80 --> 703.44] and all -[703.44 --> 704.20] means -[704.20 --> 705.12] all -[705.12 --> 709.02] that remains -[709.02 --> 710.52] front and center -[710.52 --> 711.48] especially -[711.48 --> 712.30] at the end -[712.30 --> 713.06] of this story -[713.06 --> 715.20] father Jacob -[715.20 --> 715.92] is dead -[715.92 --> 717.68] and according -[717.68 --> 718.50] to his request -[718.50 --> 719.18] he is buried -[719.18 --> 720.10] in the land -[720.10 --> 721.24] of God's promise -[721.24 --> 722.18] Canaan -[722.18 --> 724.26] and now -[724.26 --> 725.70] 56 years later -[725.70 --> 727.22] Joseph -[727.22 --> 727.76] has come -[727.76 --> 728.32] to the end -[728.32 --> 729.38] of his life -[729.38 --> 731.70] and he remembers -[731.70 --> 732.94] these words -[732.94 --> 734.28] spoken to -[734.28 --> 734.64] great -[734.64 --> 735.32] grandfather -[735.32 --> 735.96] Abraham -[735.96 --> 737.14] words -[737.14 --> 737.84] rehearsed -[737.84 --> 738.84] passed down -[738.84 --> 739.58] from one -[739.58 --> 740.12] generation -[740.12 --> 741.20] to the next -[741.20 --> 743.22] these words -[743.22 --> 744.46] from Genesis 15 -[744.46 --> 746.30] know for certain -[746.30 --> 748.40] that your descendants -[748.40 --> 749.44] will be strangers -[749.44 --> 750.38] in a country -[750.38 --> 751.56] not their own -[751.56 --> 753.00] and this -[753.00 --> 753.36] treated -[753.36 --> 754.86] 400 years -[754.86 --> 756.94] but I will punish -[756.94 --> 757.50] the nation -[757.50 --> 758.14] they serve -[758.14 --> 758.72] as slaves -[758.72 --> 759.74] and afterward -[759.74 --> 760.84] they will come -[760.84 --> 761.14] out -[761.14 --> 762.32] with great -[762.32 --> 762.84] possessions -[762.84 --> 766.72] we are not -[766.72 --> 767.10] told -[767.10 --> 768.34] if it was -[768.34 --> 769.02] faith alone -[769.02 --> 770.22] or faith -[770.22 --> 770.70] and fact -[770.70 --> 771.14] together -[771.14 --> 772.64] that made -[772.64 --> 773.44] Joseph focus -[773.44 --> 773.90] on this -[773.90 --> 774.70] old promise -[774.70 --> 775.48] that was -[775.48 --> 776.08] generations -[776.08 --> 776.58] old -[776.58 --> 777.60] and generations -[777.60 --> 779.02] from fulfillment -[779.02 --> 781.70] Joseph had been -[781.70 --> 782.18] in Egypt -[782.18 --> 782.56] now -[782.56 --> 784.10] for 93 -[784.10 --> 785.12] years -[785.12 --> 787.08] his family -[787.08 --> 788.60] for 73 -[788.60 --> 789.14] years -[789.14 --> 790.98] the famine -[790.98 --> 791.84] was long -[791.84 --> 792.26] over -[792.26 --> 793.66] Joseph had -[793.66 --> 794.12] no doubt -[794.12 --> 794.96] long since -[794.96 --> 795.52] retired -[795.52 --> 796.98] and at the -[796.98 --> 797.56] time of his -[797.56 --> 797.80] death -[797.80 --> 798.28] the children -[798.28 --> 798.84] of Israel -[798.84 --> 799.46] were not -[799.46 --> 800.16] yet slaves -[800.16 --> 801.12] or prisoners -[801.12 --> 801.94] in Egypt -[801.94 --> 803.88] all we know -[803.88 --> 804.62] is that Joseph -[804.62 --> 806.00] somehow knew -[806.00 --> 806.52] the truth -[806.52 --> 806.94] of what -[806.94 --> 807.70] Exodus 1 -[807.70 --> 808.20] verse 8 -[808.20 --> 809.10] tells us -[809.10 --> 810.18] that a new -[810.18 --> 810.54] king -[810.54 --> 812.00] who did not -[812.00 --> 812.80] know Joseph -[812.80 --> 814.08] would come -[814.08 --> 815.18] to power -[815.18 --> 816.14] and that -[816.14 --> 816.60] everything -[816.60 --> 817.66] would change -[817.66 --> 819.12] for the worse -[819.12 --> 821.08] that hardship -[821.08 --> 821.86] was coming -[821.86 --> 822.80] for his -[822.80 --> 823.22] brothers -[823.22 --> 824.68] slavery -[824.68 --> 825.80] for his -[825.80 --> 826.16] people -[826.16 --> 827.96] we also -[827.96 --> 828.50] know that -[828.50 --> 828.80] Joseph -[828.80 --> 829.48] believes -[829.48 --> 830.62] all of the -[830.62 --> 831.06] promises -[831.06 --> 832.28] that the -[832.28 --> 832.72] end -[832.72 --> 833.82] will be -[833.82 --> 834.22] glory -[834.22 --> 836.46] I am -[836.46 --> 837.32] about to -[837.32 --> 837.66] die -[837.66 --> 838.20] he tells -[838.20 --> 838.68] his brothers -[838.68 --> 840.16] but God -[840.16 --> 840.98] will surely -[840.98 --> 841.96] come to -[841.96 --> 842.50] your aid -[842.50 --> 843.80] that is -[843.80 --> 844.14] you will -[844.14 --> 844.74] need to -[844.74 --> 845.28] be rescued -[845.28 --> 845.92] by God -[845.92 --> 846.60] and God -[846.60 --> 847.30] will rescue -[847.30 --> 847.64] you -[847.64 --> 848.34] and take -[848.34 --> 848.74] you up -[848.74 --> 849.16] out of -[849.16 --> 849.64] this land -[849.64 --> 850.30] to the -[850.30 --> 850.74] land he -[850.74 --> 851.28] promised -[851.28 --> 852.02] on oath -[852.02 --> 852.66] to Abraham -[852.66 --> 853.28] Isaac -[853.28 --> 854.10] and Jacob -[854.10 --> 857.06] then Joseph -[857.06 --> 857.64] makes his -[857.64 --> 858.70] family swear -[858.70 --> 859.22] an oath -[859.22 --> 860.60] and with his -[860.60 --> 861.48] very last -[861.48 --> 861.86] words -[861.86 --> 862.36] says -[862.36 --> 863.58] God -[863.58 --> 864.46] will surely -[864.46 --> 865.06] come to -[865.06 --> 865.60] your aid -[865.60 --> 866.98] and then -[866.98 --> 867.54] you must -[867.54 --> 868.14] carry my -[868.14 --> 868.70] bones up -[868.70 --> 869.66] from this -[869.66 --> 870.10] place -[870.10 --> 872.58] so -[872.58 --> 872.94] Joseph -[872.94 --> 873.42] died -[873.42 --> 875.60] and -[875.60 --> 876.28] verse 26 -[876.28 --> 877.10] tells us -[877.10 --> 878.10] after they -[878.10 --> 878.72] embalmed -[878.72 --> 879.00] him -[879.00 --> 880.04] he was -[880.04 --> 880.72] placed in -[880.72 --> 881.22] a coffin -[881.22 --> 882.34] in Egypt -[882.34 --> 884.78] they -[884.78 --> 885.36] embalmed -[885.36 --> 885.64] him -[885.64 --> 887.74] they -[887.74 --> 888.22] don't -[888.22 --> 889.08] bury -[889.08 --> 889.48] him -[889.48 --> 891.64] why not -[891.64 --> 892.08] because -[892.08 --> 892.74] they're -[892.74 --> 893.46] supposed to -[893.46 --> 893.86] carry -[893.86 --> 894.82] his bones -[894.82 --> 895.40] out when -[895.40 --> 895.88] they go -[895.88 --> 897.26] because -[897.26 --> 897.66] God -[897.66 --> 898.10] is coming -[898.10 --> 898.48] for them -[898.48 --> 899.10] to rescue -[899.10 --> 899.42] them -[899.42 --> 899.98] and they -[899.98 --> 900.44] need to -[900.44 --> 900.86] be ready -[900.86 --> 901.42] to pick -[901.42 --> 901.74] up his -[901.74 --> 902.10] bones -[902.10 --> 903.06] and leave -[903.06 --> 904.52] Joseph's -[904.52 --> 904.88] coffin -[904.88 --> 905.44] becomes -[905.44 --> 906.06] a symbol -[906.06 --> 907.06] of hope -[907.06 --> 907.68] that the -[907.68 --> 908.10] gathering -[908.10 --> 908.56] storm -[908.56 --> 908.96] that is -[908.96 --> 909.34] coming -[909.34 --> 910.12] slavery -[910.12 --> 910.44] and -[910.44 --> 910.88] hardship -[910.88 --> 911.72] is not -[911.72 --> 912.10] going to -[912.10 --> 912.74] be terminal -[912.74 --> 913.38] that the -[913.38 --> 913.78] present -[913.78 --> 914.32] darkness -[914.32 --> 915.12] will not -[915.12 --> 915.78] be forever -[915.78 --> 916.66] don't -[916.66 --> 917.58] bury me -[917.58 --> 918.00] because -[918.00 --> 918.46] God -[918.46 --> 918.86] will come -[918.86 --> 919.14] back -[919.14 --> 919.76] for us -[919.76 --> 921.00] and when -[921.00 --> 921.60] you must -[921.60 --> 922.14] carry my -[922.14 --> 922.42] bones -[922.42 --> 922.84] home -[922.84 --> 923.98] and bury -[923.98 --> 924.34] me -[924.34 --> 925.12] in the -[925.12 --> 925.36] land -[925.36 --> 925.52] of -[925.52 --> 926.04] promise -[926.04 --> 929.44] you see -[929.44 --> 929.80] the end -[929.80 --> 929.96] of -[929.96 --> 930.34] Genesis -[930.34 --> 931.78] is all -[931.78 --> 932.08] about -[932.08 --> 932.44] hope -[932.44 --> 933.46] after all -[933.46 --> 935.20] and the -[935.20 --> 935.46] Bible -[935.46 --> 936.18] says a lot -[936.18 --> 936.74] about hope -[936.74 --> 938.22] that biblical -[938.22 --> 938.92] hope does -[938.92 --> 939.74] not disappoint -[939.74 --> 941.42] that it's -[941.42 --> 941.76] not an -[941.76 --> 942.06] empty -[942.06 --> 942.54] wish -[942.54 --> 943.70] that biblical -[943.70 --> 944.44] hope is a -[944.44 --> 945.10] given because -[945.10 --> 945.58] it is a -[945.58 --> 945.84] hope -[945.84 --> 947.06] in God -[947.06 --> 949.74] Lewis -[949.74 --> 950.14] Meads -[950.14 --> 950.86] once pointed -[950.86 --> 951.14] out -[951.14 --> 952.24] that when -[952.24 --> 952.66] it comes -[952.66 --> 953.22] to ordinary -[953.22 --> 953.98] human -[953.98 --> 954.44] hoping -[954.44 --> 955.72] there are -[955.72 --> 956.36] three things -[956.36 --> 957.02] going on -[957.02 --> 958.62] one is -[958.62 --> 959.52] desire -[959.52 --> 960.30] we want -[960.30 --> 960.62] what we -[960.62 --> 961.24] hope for -[961.24 --> 964.16] two is -[964.16 --> 965.06] belief -[965.06 --> 966.78] we believe -[966.78 --> 967.30] that what we -[967.30 --> 967.70] hope for -[967.70 --> 968.40] is possible -[968.40 --> 970.26] though not -[970.26 --> 970.72] inevitable -[970.72 --> 972.80] which leads -[972.80 --> 973.14] to number -[973.14 --> 973.58] three -[973.58 --> 974.90] doubt -[974.90 --> 976.72] we fear -[976.72 --> 977.10] that what -[977.10 --> 977.58] we hope -[977.58 --> 978.06] for -[978.06 --> 979.34] may not -[979.34 --> 979.64] happen -[979.64 --> 981.38] hope for -[981.38 --> 982.18] the difference -[982.18 --> 982.84] in Christian -[982.84 --> 983.44] and biblical -[983.44 --> 983.92] hope -[983.92 --> 986.58] has to do -[986.58 --> 986.90] with that -[986.90 --> 987.68] third element -[987.68 --> 989.02] doubt -[989.02 --> 991.36] Christian hope -[991.36 --> 991.86] is not -[991.86 --> 992.16] evil -[992.16 --> 993.38] it is a -[993.38 --> 994.06] conviction -[994.06 --> 995.30] about what -[995.30 --> 996.16] is sure -[996.16 --> 997.22] because it is -[997.22 --> 997.76] a faith -[997.76 --> 998.86] not in human -[998.86 --> 999.58] possibility -[999.58 --> 1001.26] but in God's -[1001.26 --> 1001.72] promise -[1001.72 --> 1003.96] that's why -[1003.96 --> 1004.72] hope rules -[1004.72 --> 1005.22] at the end -[1005.22 --> 1005.50] of the -[1005.50 --> 1006.30] Joseph story -[1006.30 --> 1006.98] and at the -[1006.98 --> 1007.38] end of -[1007.38 --> 1007.80] Genesis -[1007.80 --> 1008.44] even though -[1008.44 --> 1009.00] we know -[1009.00 --> 1009.62] when as -[1009.62 --> 1010.02] Genesis -[1010.02 --> 1010.64] closes -[1010.64 --> 1012.14] hardship -[1012.14 --> 1013.58] slavery -[1013.58 --> 1015.04] brick making -[1015.04 --> 1015.98] genocide -[1015.98 --> 1016.80] through the -[1016.80 --> 1017.28] murder of -[1017.28 --> 1017.66] their male -[1017.66 --> 1018.08] children -[1018.08 --> 1019.24] one generation -[1019.24 --> 1020.46] after another -[1020.46 --> 1021.80] and yes -[1021.80 --> 1022.62] all the while -[1022.62 --> 1023.28] the silence -[1023.28 --> 1023.82] of God -[1023.82 --> 1024.96] is deafening -[1024.96 --> 1027.44] there is no -[1027.44 --> 1027.92] word from -[1027.92 --> 1028.26] God -[1028.26 --> 1029.42] there is no -[1029.42 --> 1030.10] message from -[1030.10 --> 1030.42] heaven -[1030.42 --> 1032.02] and so -[1032.02 --> 1032.74] where is the -[1032.74 --> 1033.52] hope in all -[1033.52 --> 1034.00] of this -[1034.00 --> 1037.08] it is in -[1037.08 --> 1038.24] Joseph's -[1038.24 --> 1038.66] coffin -[1038.66 --> 1041.10] Joseph's -[1041.10 --> 1041.52] coffin -[1041.52 --> 1042.08] becomes -[1042.08 --> 1042.98] the message -[1042.98 --> 1043.58] of hope -[1043.58 --> 1044.36] it is the -[1044.36 --> 1045.06] box if you -[1045.06 --> 1045.32] will -[1045.32 --> 1046.42] that speaks -[1046.42 --> 1048.00] it is the -[1048.00 --> 1048.60] symbol that -[1048.60 --> 1049.44] says this -[1049.44 --> 1049.92] suffering -[1049.92 --> 1050.72] is not -[1050.72 --> 1051.18] forever -[1051.18 --> 1052.94] God has -[1052.94 --> 1053.64] not forgotten -[1053.64 --> 1054.04] you -[1054.04 --> 1055.00] someday he -[1055.00 --> 1055.42] will come -[1055.42 --> 1056.00] back for -[1056.00 --> 1056.26] you -[1056.26 --> 1057.26] by faith -[1057.26 --> 1057.72] Joseph -[1057.72 --> 1058.16] when his -[1058.16 --> 1058.58] end was -[1058.58 --> 1058.84] near -[1058.84 --> 1059.80] spoke about -[1059.80 --> 1060.46] the exodus -[1060.46 --> 1060.82] of the -[1060.82 --> 1061.26] Israelites -[1061.26 --> 1061.88] from Egypt -[1061.88 --> 1062.74] and gave -[1062.74 --> 1063.44] instructions -[1063.44 --> 1064.52] about his -[1064.52 --> 1065.04] bones -[1065.04 --> 1066.24] as the -[1066.24 --> 1066.72] children of -[1066.72 --> 1067.08] Israel -[1067.08 --> 1067.70] suffer -[1067.70 --> 1068.72] year after -[1068.72 --> 1069.16] year -[1069.16 --> 1070.04] of awful -[1070.04 --> 1070.62] slavery -[1070.62 --> 1071.34] and life -[1071.34 --> 1072.02] is hard -[1072.02 --> 1072.58] and the -[1072.58 --> 1072.88] future -[1072.88 --> 1073.22] seems -[1073.22 --> 1073.88] hopeless -[1073.88 --> 1076.08] fathers -[1076.08 --> 1077.40] and mothers -[1077.40 --> 1079.20] will walk -[1079.20 --> 1079.78] with sons -[1079.78 --> 1080.58] and daughters -[1080.58 --> 1081.84] past the -[1081.84 --> 1082.44] place where -[1082.44 --> 1083.08] the coffin -[1083.08 --> 1083.94] lays -[1083.94 --> 1084.84] and -[1084.84 --> 1085.42] generation -[1085.42 --> 1085.78] after -[1085.78 --> 1086.50] generation -[1086.50 --> 1087.14] will ask -[1087.14 --> 1088.06] what does -[1088.06 --> 1088.72] that box -[1088.72 --> 1089.36] mean -[1089.36 --> 1091.40] and fathers -[1091.40 --> 1092.00] and mothers -[1092.00 --> 1093.06] will tell -[1093.06 --> 1093.64] their children -[1093.64 --> 1094.82] as hard -[1094.82 --> 1095.22] as life -[1095.22 --> 1095.56] is -[1095.56 --> 1097.04] as hopeless -[1097.04 --> 1097.78] as the future -[1097.78 --> 1098.32] seems -[1098.32 --> 1100.04] this box -[1100.04 --> 1100.90] this coffin -[1100.90 --> 1101.46] means -[1101.46 --> 1102.40] that one -[1102.40 --> 1103.02] day soon -[1103.02 --> 1103.44] we're gone -[1103.44 --> 1105.36] we close -[1105.36 --> 1105.98] with Joseph -[1105.98 --> 1106.74] in a coffin -[1106.74 --> 1107.84] in Egypt -[1107.84 --> 1109.30] and from the -[1109.30 --> 1110.12] outside looking -[1110.12 --> 1110.48] in -[1110.48 --> 1112.30] things don't -[1112.30 --> 1113.14] look all that -[1113.14 --> 1113.48] hopeful -[1113.48 --> 1115.70] but the -[1115.70 --> 1116.46] last verse -[1116.46 --> 1117.08] of Genesis -[1117.08 --> 1118.66] is part -[1118.66 --> 1118.92] of this -[1118.92 --> 1119.54] larger -[1119.54 --> 1120.00] biblical -[1120.00 --> 1120.60] story -[1120.60 --> 1121.72] that lets -[1121.72 --> 1122.22] us know -[1122.22 --> 1123.34] this is -[1123.34 --> 1123.86] not the -[1123.86 --> 1124.20] end -[1124.20 --> 1125.90] not by -[1125.90 --> 1126.62] a long -[1126.62 --> 1127.06] shot -[1127.06 --> 1128.26] it isn't -[1128.26 --> 1130.16] the road -[1130.16 --> 1130.68] ahead will -[1130.68 --> 1131.08] not be -[1131.08 --> 1131.44] easy -[1131.44 --> 1133.00] but some -[1133.00 --> 1134.42] 430 years -[1134.42 --> 1134.98] Joseph was -[1134.98 --> 1135.50] sold in -[1135.50 --> 1136.02] Egypt as -[1136.02 --> 1136.52] a slave -[1136.52 --> 1139.30] God -[1139.30 --> 1139.90] called up -[1139.90 --> 1140.46] another -[1140.46 --> 1141.34] deliverer -[1141.34 --> 1142.50] Moses -[1142.50 --> 1144.20] and as -[1144.20 --> 1144.62] Moses -[1144.62 --> 1145.22] leads the -[1145.22 --> 1145.72] children of -[1145.72 --> 1146.10] Israel -[1146.10 --> 1146.54] out of -[1146.54 --> 1146.70] their -[1146.70 --> 1147.08] slavery -[1147.08 --> 1147.70] in Egypt -[1147.70 --> 1148.70] you read -[1148.70 --> 1149.18] this in -[1149.18 --> 1150.24] Exodus 13 -[1150.24 --> 1151.18] Moses -[1151.18 --> 1152.00] took the -[1152.00 --> 1152.66] bones of -[1152.66 --> 1153.02] Joseph -[1153.02 --> 1154.10] with him -[1154.10 --> 1155.62] because -[1155.62 --> 1156.14] Joseph -[1156.14 --> 1156.86] had made -[1156.86 --> 1157.42] the sons -[1157.42 --> 1157.98] of Israel -[1157.98 --> 1159.10] swear an -[1159.10 --> 1159.46] oath -[1159.46 --> 1160.64] he had -[1160.64 --> 1161.02] said -[1161.02 --> 1161.80] God -[1161.80 --> 1162.58] will surely -[1162.58 --> 1163.04] come to -[1163.04 --> 1163.62] your aid -[1163.62 --> 1164.70] and then -[1164.70 --> 1165.24] you must -[1165.24 --> 1165.70] carry -[1165.70 --> 1166.64] my bones -[1166.64 --> 1167.26] up with -[1167.26 --> 1167.60] you -[1167.60 --> 1168.70] from this -[1168.70 --> 1169.18] place -[1169.18 --> 1172.14] through 40 -[1172.14 --> 1173.06] years of -[1173.06 --> 1173.62] their desert -[1173.62 --> 1174.48] pilgrimage -[1174.48 --> 1176.32] along with -[1176.32 --> 1177.14] everything else -[1177.14 --> 1177.76] they carried -[1177.76 --> 1178.20] for their -[1178.20 --> 1178.58] journey -[1178.58 --> 1180.54] they carried -[1180.54 --> 1181.42] that coffin -[1181.42 --> 1182.62] through the -[1182.62 --> 1183.18] Red Sea -[1183.18 --> 1184.62] to the foot -[1184.62 --> 1184.98] of Mount -[1184.98 --> 1185.42] Sinai -[1185.42 --> 1185.92] where God -[1185.92 --> 1186.38] renewed -[1186.38 --> 1187.26] his covenant -[1187.26 --> 1187.74] with his -[1187.74 --> 1188.08] people -[1188.08 --> 1189.68] through years -[1189.68 --> 1190.44] of doubts -[1190.44 --> 1191.24] and murmuring -[1191.24 --> 1192.04] and complaining -[1192.04 --> 1194.26] through years -[1194.26 --> 1194.86] of struggle -[1194.86 --> 1197.26] until finally -[1197.26 --> 1197.68] they took -[1197.68 --> 1198.18] possession -[1198.18 --> 1198.66] of the -[1198.66 --> 1199.10] land of -[1199.10 --> 1199.50] promise -[1199.50 --> 1200.22] and at -[1200.22 --> 1200.62] the end -[1200.62 --> 1201.06] of the -[1201.06 --> 1201.46] book of -[1201.46 --> 1201.86] Joshua -[1201.86 --> 1202.60] you read -[1202.60 --> 1203.36] these words -[1203.36 --> 1204.70] Joseph's -[1204.70 --> 1205.16] bones -[1205.16 --> 1206.34] which the -[1206.34 --> 1206.80] Israelites -[1206.80 --> 1207.52] had brought -[1207.52 --> 1207.88] up from -[1207.88 --> 1208.32] Egypt -[1208.32 --> 1210.00] were buried -[1210.00 --> 1210.66] at Shechem -[1210.66 --> 1211.62] in the -[1211.62 --> 1212.28] tract of -[1212.28 --> 1212.88] land that -[1212.88 --> 1213.58] Jacob bought -[1213.58 --> 1214.60] for 100 -[1214.60 --> 1215.42] pieces of -[1215.42 --> 1215.82] silver -[1215.82 --> 1216.82] from the -[1216.82 --> 1217.24] sons of -[1217.24 --> 1217.68] Hamor -[1217.68 --> 1219.30] this became -[1219.30 --> 1220.08] the inheritance -[1220.08 --> 1221.78] of Joseph's -[1221.78 --> 1222.78] descendants -[1222.78 --> 1225.60] no coffin -[1225.60 --> 1226.20] in Egypt -[1226.20 --> 1227.42] is going -[1227.42 --> 1228.08] to stop -[1228.08 --> 1228.68] the Lord -[1228.68 --> 1229.88] God Almighty -[1229.88 --> 1230.66] from fulfilling -[1230.66 --> 1231.42] his promise -[1231.42 --> 1232.10] to Abraham -[1232.10 --> 1233.04] Isaac -[1233.04 --> 1233.96] Jacob -[1233.96 --> 1235.78] and Joseph -[1235.78 --> 1238.04] nor will -[1238.04 --> 1238.78] anything -[1238.78 --> 1239.58] stop -[1239.58 --> 1240.44] the Lord -[1240.44 --> 1241.60] God Almighty -[1241.60 --> 1242.48] from fulfilling -[1242.48 --> 1243.42] his promise -[1243.42 --> 1244.50] to us -[1244.50 --> 1246.84] I know -[1246.84 --> 1247.34] the people -[1247.34 --> 1247.76] of God -[1247.76 --> 1248.06] throughout -[1248.06 --> 1248.52] history -[1248.52 --> 1249.02] have had -[1249.02 --> 1249.54] their share -[1249.54 --> 1250.04] of hard -[1250.04 --> 1250.46] times -[1250.46 --> 1250.82] I know -[1250.82 --> 1251.28] violence -[1251.28 --> 1251.94] and terror -[1251.94 --> 1252.72] of hunger -[1252.72 --> 1253.40] and poverty -[1253.40 --> 1254.26] of crime -[1254.26 --> 1255.00] and immorality -[1255.00 --> 1255.66] of sickness -[1255.66 --> 1256.40] and pandemic -[1256.40 --> 1258.62] I know -[1258.62 --> 1259.22] that the evil -[1259.22 --> 1259.96] and the injustice -[1259.96 --> 1260.74] and the oppression -[1260.74 --> 1261.94] and the exploitation -[1261.94 --> 1262.98] that Archbishop -[1262.98 --> 1264.06] Tutu spoke -[1264.06 --> 1264.72] about still -[1264.72 --> 1265.28] prevails -[1265.28 --> 1266.12] in almost -[1266.12 --> 1267.08] every corner -[1267.08 --> 1267.72] of our world -[1267.72 --> 1268.82] also frankly -[1268.82 --> 1269.84] in our corner -[1269.84 --> 1270.64] of the world -[1270.64 --> 1272.90] I know -[1272.90 --> 1273.64] that we are -[1273.64 --> 1274.28] not winning -[1274.28 --> 1275.02] the battle -[1275.02 --> 1275.98] in our culture -[1275.98 --> 1276.56] to reach -[1276.56 --> 1277.66] the whole world -[1277.66 --> 1278.90] for Jesus Christ -[1278.90 --> 1280.24] all the adversity -[1280.24 --> 1281.06] that the church -[1281.06 --> 1281.84] has faced -[1281.84 --> 1282.58] and that we face -[1282.58 --> 1283.64] up to this day -[1283.64 --> 1284.62] we don't have -[1284.62 --> 1285.38] this box -[1285.38 --> 1286.04] this coffin -[1286.04 --> 1287.36] that talks to us -[1287.36 --> 1289.64] we have no -[1289.64 --> 1290.64] unburied bones -[1290.64 --> 1291.38] to revive -[1291.38 --> 1292.38] our flagging faith -[1292.38 --> 1295.98] we have something -[1295.98 --> 1296.64] far better -[1296.64 --> 1297.18] don't we -[1297.18 --> 1299.28] we have -[1299.28 --> 1301.02] an empty grave -[1301.02 --> 1303.50] an empty grave -[1303.50 --> 1304.54] where the son of God -[1304.54 --> 1305.16] on a Friday -[1305.16 --> 1306.22] that was good for us -[1306.22 --> 1307.32] but not very good -[1307.32 --> 1307.78] for him -[1307.78 --> 1309.74] because he died -[1309.74 --> 1311.76] for our sin -[1311.76 --> 1313.60] a grave -[1313.60 --> 1314.34] now empty -[1314.34 --> 1315.72] because on the third day -[1315.72 --> 1316.78] he rose from the dead -[1316.78 --> 1318.48] and walked out of that grave -[1318.48 --> 1319.68] for our life -[1319.68 --> 1322.00] we have an empty grave -[1322.00 --> 1323.10] that reminds us -[1323.10 --> 1323.96] that this earth -[1323.96 --> 1325.70] is not our real home -[1325.70 --> 1327.74] that God has prepared -[1327.74 --> 1328.74] a better city -[1328.74 --> 1329.34] for us -[1329.34 --> 1330.30] a new heaven -[1330.30 --> 1331.40] and a new earth -[1331.40 --> 1332.80] the land of glory -[1332.80 --> 1334.74] we have an empty grave -[1334.74 --> 1335.90] to revive our hope -[1335.90 --> 1337.32] that God is coming -[1337.32 --> 1338.66] to our aid -[1338.66 --> 1340.00] God is coming back -[1340.00 --> 1340.54] for us -[1340.54 --> 1341.60] God is coming -[1341.60 --> 1342.52] to deliver us -[1342.52 --> 1343.56] from our bondage -[1343.56 --> 1344.12] to death -[1344.12 --> 1345.08] and decay -[1345.08 --> 1346.16] and the devil -[1346.16 --> 1349.10] Genesis 50 -[1349.10 --> 1349.48] you see -[1349.48 --> 1350.22] is far -[1350.22 --> 1351.06] from the end -[1351.06 --> 1351.70] of the story -[1351.70 --> 1352.74] it is only the end -[1352.74 --> 1353.10] of the book -[1353.10 --> 1353.72] of Genesis -[1353.72 --> 1355.48] Moses still has -[1355.48 --> 1356.28] four more books -[1356.28 --> 1356.88] to write -[1356.88 --> 1357.98] and the spirit -[1357.98 --> 1358.60] of God -[1358.60 --> 1360.12] has 61 -[1360.12 --> 1361.32] more to write -[1361.32 --> 1362.70] before the final -[1362.70 --> 1363.56] chapter -[1363.56 --> 1364.78] is written -[1364.78 --> 1367.22] listen -[1367.22 --> 1368.48] Revelation -[1368.48 --> 1369.76] 21 -[1369.76 --> 1372.24] these familiar words -[1372.24 --> 1373.66] then I saw -[1373.66 --> 1374.44] a new heaven -[1374.44 --> 1375.90] and a new earth -[1375.90 --> 1377.90] for the first heaven -[1377.90 --> 1379.16] and the first earth -[1379.16 --> 1380.12] had passed away -[1380.12 --> 1381.30] and there was no longer -[1381.30 --> 1382.28] any sea -[1382.28 --> 1384.42] I saw the holy city -[1384.42 --> 1385.54] the new Jerusalem -[1385.54 --> 1386.76] coming down -[1386.76 --> 1387.28] out of heaven -[1387.28 --> 1387.92] from God -[1387.92 --> 1389.32] prepared as a bride -[1389.32 --> 1390.58] beautifully dressed -[1390.58 --> 1391.46] for her husband -[1391.46 --> 1393.22] and I heard -[1393.22 --> 1394.26] a loud voice -[1394.26 --> 1394.94] from the throne -[1394.94 --> 1395.48] saying -[1395.48 --> 1397.04] now the dwelling -[1397.04 --> 1397.64] of God -[1397.64 --> 1398.64] is with men -[1398.64 --> 1400.34] and he will live -[1400.34 --> 1400.80] with them -[1400.80 --> 1401.84] they will be -[1401.84 --> 1402.52] his people -[1402.52 --> 1403.90] and God himself -[1403.90 --> 1404.92] will be with them -[1404.92 --> 1406.20] and be their God -[1406.20 --> 1407.20] he will wipe -[1407.20 --> 1408.22] every tear -[1408.22 --> 1409.28] from their eyes -[1409.28 --> 1410.74] there will be -[1410.74 --> 1411.58] no more death -[1411.58 --> 1412.72] or mourning -[1412.72 --> 1414.52] or crying -[1414.52 --> 1415.88] or pain -[1415.88 --> 1417.32] for the old -[1417.32 --> 1418.28] order of things -[1418.28 --> 1420.20] has passed away -[1420.20 --> 1422.54] as God's people -[1422.54 --> 1423.58] in the days of Joseph -[1423.58 --> 1425.74] so now it's true -[1425.74 --> 1426.50] we still live -[1426.50 --> 1427.36] in the midst of death -[1427.36 --> 1429.38] those who put -[1429.38 --> 1429.86] their hope -[1429.86 --> 1430.44] in God -[1430.44 --> 1431.58] and his promise -[1431.58 --> 1432.50] that today -[1432.50 --> 1434.12] still die -[1434.12 --> 1435.92] are placed -[1435.92 --> 1436.98] in coffins -[1436.98 --> 1438.42] and carried -[1438.42 --> 1439.14] to their graves -[1439.14 --> 1441.78] you and I too -[1441.78 --> 1442.52] are not home yet -[1442.52 --> 1444.42] as believers -[1444.42 --> 1444.88] we live -[1444.88 --> 1446.50] in an in-between time -[1446.50 --> 1448.94] between the already -[1448.94 --> 1449.70] of the kingdom -[1449.70 --> 1450.40] of God -[1450.40 --> 1451.08] that invaded -[1451.08 --> 1451.72] our world -[1451.72 --> 1452.32] and the person -[1452.32 --> 1453.22] of Jesus Christ -[1453.22 --> 1454.66] and that has been -[1454.66 --> 1455.68] born in our hearts -[1455.68 --> 1456.40] through God's word -[1456.40 --> 1457.14] and God's spirit -[1457.14 --> 1459.44] and the not yet -[1459.44 --> 1460.22] of the fully -[1460.22 --> 1461.30] realized kingdom -[1461.30 --> 1461.84] of God -[1461.84 --> 1462.82] that will come -[1462.82 --> 1463.54] with Jesus -[1463.54 --> 1464.52] returning glory -[1464.52 --> 1466.12] when God -[1466.12 --> 1466.88] will be all -[1466.88 --> 1467.26] in all -[1467.26 --> 1467.78] everything -[1467.78 --> 1469.68] to everyone -[1469.68 --> 1472.36] but as God -[1472.36 --> 1473.40] spoke in the beginning -[1473.40 --> 1475.00] and there was light -[1475.00 --> 1476.48] and there was life -[1476.48 --> 1479.06] so an empty grave -[1479.06 --> 1480.14] declares to us -[1480.14 --> 1481.02] that in the end -[1481.02 --> 1482.02] God will speak -[1482.02 --> 1482.74] light -[1482.74 --> 1483.66] and life -[1483.66 --> 1484.70] once again -[1484.70 --> 1485.72] and make -[1485.72 --> 1486.88] everything -[1486.88 --> 1487.84] new -[1487.84 --> 1490.94] we await -[1490.94 --> 1491.58] that voice -[1491.58 --> 1493.44] even as we hear -[1493.44 --> 1494.56] whispers of it already -[1494.56 --> 1495.90] now -[1495.90 --> 1496.64] through the spirit -[1496.64 --> 1497.16] of God -[1497.16 --> 1498.88] both in his word -[1498.88 --> 1500.48] and at this table -[1500.48 --> 1501.16] stands here -[1501.16 --> 1502.30] before me -[1502.30 --> 1503.10] where we had hope -[1503.10 --> 1504.04] to celebrate communion -[1504.04 --> 1505.10] again this morning -[1505.10 --> 1507.30] this table -[1507.30 --> 1508.30] also -[1508.30 --> 1509.46] a reminder -[1509.46 --> 1510.94] that the Lord -[1510.94 --> 1511.88] gave us -[1511.88 --> 1512.42] to revive -[1512.42 --> 1513.24] our hope -[1513.24 --> 1513.92] on a journey -[1513.92 --> 1515.56] to the promised land -[1515.56 --> 1517.74] when your children -[1517.74 --> 1518.14] ask you -[1518.14 --> 1519.50] what's with this table -[1519.50 --> 1521.52] what's that about -[1521.52 --> 1522.42] this bread -[1522.42 --> 1523.00] this wine -[1523.00 --> 1524.02] right -[1524.02 --> 1524.72] you tell them -[1524.72 --> 1525.44] this table -[1525.44 --> 1526.26] means that God -[1526.26 --> 1527.52] came to our aid -[1527.52 --> 1528.40] in Jesus -[1528.40 --> 1529.82] and that because -[1529.82 --> 1530.72] Jesus died -[1530.72 --> 1531.56] and rose again -[1531.56 --> 1532.90] he will come for us -[1532.90 --> 1533.28] again -[1533.28 --> 1534.42] one day soon -[1534.42 --> 1536.02] God will deliver us -[1536.02 --> 1536.84] from our bondage -[1536.84 --> 1537.36] to death -[1537.36 --> 1537.98] and decay -[1537.98 --> 1538.64] and the devil -[1538.64 --> 1539.54] and bring us -[1539.54 --> 1540.44] to a new land -[1540.44 --> 1541.66] this table -[1541.66 --> 1542.60] placed in front -[1542.60 --> 1543.58] of our sanctuary -[1543.58 --> 1544.94] means rescue -[1544.94 --> 1546.06] means salvation -[1546.06 --> 1547.48] it proclaims -[1547.48 --> 1547.92] the death -[1547.92 --> 1548.74] and resurrection -[1548.74 --> 1550.92] until he comes -[1550.92 --> 1551.72] again -[1551.72 --> 1554.98] and then you tell them -[1554.98 --> 1557.66] and you tell yourself -[1557.66 --> 1558.82] every Sunday again -[1558.82 --> 1561.02] if we are on God's side -[1561.02 --> 1563.34] we are on -[1563.34 --> 1564.66] the winning side -[1564.66 --> 1566.98] life is going to win -[1566.98 --> 1568.04] over death -[1568.04 --> 1569.66] love is over hate -[1569.66 --> 1571.38] peace is going to win -[1571.38 --> 1572.40] over violence -[1572.40 --> 1573.06] righteousness -[1573.06 --> 1574.34] is going to win -[1574.34 --> 1575.22] over injustice -[1575.22 --> 1577.26] good is going to win -[1577.26 --> 1578.20] over evil -[1578.20 --> 1579.38] so don't ever -[1579.38 --> 1581.38] ever give up hope -[1581.38 --> 1583.54] not for people -[1583.54 --> 1584.08] you love -[1584.08 --> 1585.78] not for yourself -[1585.78 --> 1587.56] not for the church -[1587.56 --> 1589.68] not for the world -[1589.68 --> 1592.02] not for God -[1592.02 --> 1593.96] this is -[1593.96 --> 1595.62] our Father's world -[1595.62 --> 1597.14] oh let us -[1597.14 --> 1597.88] not forget -[1597.88 --> 1598.94] that though the wrong -[1598.94 --> 1600.04] is great and strong -[1600.04 --> 1600.60] God -[1600.60 --> 1602.22] is the ruler -[1602.22 --> 1603.28] yet -[1603.28 --> 1606.30] especially -[1606.30 --> 1607.04] especially as we are -[1607.04 --> 1607.90] about to begin -[1607.90 --> 1609.62] the season of Advent -[1609.62 --> 1612.18] leading up to the good news -[1612.18 --> 1612.94] of Emmanuel -[1612.94 --> 1614.72] God with us -[1614.72 --> 1616.18] in Jesus -[1616.18 --> 1616.74] his son -[1616.74 --> 1618.96] may that hope -[1618.96 --> 1620.02] give each of you -[1620.02 --> 1621.30] and us together -[1621.30 --> 1622.38] renewed -[1622.38 --> 1624.08] spiritual energy -[1624.08 --> 1625.12] even in this -[1625.12 --> 1626.12] difficult time -[1626.12 --> 1627.44] of COVID-19 -[1627.44 --> 1629.76] the spiritual energy -[1629.76 --> 1630.38] we need -[1630.38 --> 1631.52] to dream -[1631.52 --> 1632.44] God's dreams -[1632.44 --> 1633.94] to strive -[1633.94 --> 1634.54] for the good -[1634.54 --> 1635.34] God's word -[1635.34 --> 1636.00] commands -[1636.00 --> 1637.02] and promises -[1637.02 --> 1638.90] and to work -[1638.90 --> 1639.84] for God's -[1639.84 --> 1640.84] promised future -[1640.84 --> 1641.60] by shaping -[1641.60 --> 1642.90] our lives -[1642.90 --> 1643.56] that's come -[1643.56 --> 1644.80] coming -[1644.80 --> 1646.26] for to carry -[1646.26 --> 1647.54] us home -[1647.54 --> 1649.60] in the name -[1649.60 --> 1650.18] of the Father -[1650.18 --> 1650.90] the Son -[1650.90 --> 1652.48] and the Holy Spirit -[1652.48 --> 1654.12] let's pray -[1654.12 --> 1656.80] gracious God -[1656.80 --> 1657.56] we thank you -[1657.56 --> 1660.00] for the hope -[1660.00 --> 1660.80] that is ours -[1660.80 --> 1662.62] in Christ Jesus -[1662.62 --> 1664.88] for the hope -[1664.88 --> 1665.76] that we will celebrate -[1665.76 --> 1666.92] again and anew -[1666.92 --> 1668.16] in the season of Advent -[1668.16 --> 1669.34] beginning next week -[1669.34 --> 1671.24] leading up to the -[1671.24 --> 1671.80] celebration -[1671.80 --> 1673.64] of the day -[1673.64 --> 1674.58] that we have marked -[1674.58 --> 1676.98] to celebrate -[1676.98 --> 1678.90] the incarnation -[1678.90 --> 1680.22] God -[1680.22 --> 1680.88] you -[1680.88 --> 1681.48] coming -[1681.48 --> 1682.66] in our flesh -[1682.66 --> 1683.98] in Jesus -[1683.98 --> 1684.62] your son -[1684.62 --> 1686.68] to remind us -[1686.68 --> 1688.60] that our hope -[1688.60 --> 1689.42] is real -[1689.42 --> 1690.76] our hope -[1690.76 --> 1691.96] has flesh and blood -[1691.96 --> 1694.38] and so we pray -[1694.38 --> 1696.42] together with Joseph -[1696.42 --> 1697.92] may our faith -[1697.92 --> 1698.28] too -[1698.28 --> 1699.80] remain strong -[1699.80 --> 1700.46] may our hope -[1700.46 --> 1701.50] remain alive -[1701.50 --> 1703.42] and may we live lives -[1703.42 --> 1704.00] consistent -[1704.00 --> 1705.42] with that faith -[1705.42 --> 1706.70] and that hope -[1706.70 --> 1707.78] every day -[1707.78 --> 1709.50] in Jesus name -[1709.50 --> 1709.98] we pray -[1709.98 --> 1711.10] amen diff --git a/Joy Has Dawned - December 19, 2021_summary.txt b/Joy Has Dawned - December 19, 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d86d8a19b85b877213e7ed79ef8dff3b1d5352cf..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Joy Has Dawned - December 19, 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,37 +0,0 @@ -• Christ's birth and redemption -• Christmas musical "Joy Has Dawned" by Lloyd Larson -• Importance of hope brought by Christ -• Invitation to sing along during select parts of the musical -• Gratitude to those involved in preparing the evening, including family members and volunteers -• COVID-19 protocols for attending the event -• Gratitude expressed to individuals who contributed to the musical event -• Acknowledgement of Mike Angel's influence on Eric and himself in their musical development -• Tribute to Dave Alexander, a former worship leader and choir director at Emmanuel, who passed away from ALS -• Reflections on Dave's musical talent and impact on the church community -• Prayer led by John Folkerts to dedicate the service to God through music -• Joy to the world and celebration of God's gift of love -• The story of Jesus' birth: Isaiah's prophecy, a virgin giving birth to Emmanuel, Caesar Augustus' decree, and Jesus' birth in Bethlehem -• References to various hymns and worship songs (e.g. "Joy to the World", "Praise be the Lord") -• Repeated themes of joy, glory, and the light shining after darkness -• A baby is born to Mary -• An angel appears to shepherds outside Bethlehem and announces the birth of Jesus -• The shepherds visit Mary, Joseph, and the newborn baby in a manger -• They offer their gifts and spread the word about what they witnessed -• Mary treasured up all that happened and pondered them in her heart -• A way in a manger -• The story of Jesus' birth, including angels and shepherds -• The Magi from the east coming to worship Jesus -• The gifts of gold, incense, and myrrh presented to Jesus -• Worship and devotion to Jesus as Redeemer -• Joy has dawned upon the world with the birth of Jesus Christ -• The promise of God's salvation is now fulfilled through Jesus' birth -• The joy is not just for one nation, but for all nations and people -• Jesus was born in humble circumstances, as a gift of love from God to humanity -• Angels sang and celebrated the birth of Jesus with shepherds and magi -• The message of Jesus' birth is one of hope and freedom for all people -• Discussion of a Christmas musical performance -• Reference to Jesus Christ's birth and its significance -• Expression of gratitude from the director and participants -• Call to prayer and reflection on the importance of faith during the holiday season -• Conclusion of the evening with a final prayer and blessing -• Mention of COVID-19 (referred to as "Covac") impacting plans for the musical \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Joy Has Dawned - December 19, 2021_transcript.txt b/Joy Has Dawned - December 19, 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 5eb687c127c0cf09dd951d885d4bc808c535b16c..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Joy Has Dawned - December 19, 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,622 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 9.12] So this was truly God, wrapped up in a tattered blanket. -[12.66 --> 19.62] Love was finally here, sleeping while the world awakened. -[19.62 --> 28.62] And redemption began with a baby. -[30.00 --> 42.62] In Bethlehem, all of the angels lifted up their voices and filled the night with hallelujah. -[42.62 --> 46.62] God is with us now. -[47.52 --> 52.62] Everyone come and join the heavenly chorus. -[53.76 --> 58.68] Our Savior, King, is here before us. -[58.68 --> 63.30] All to hear the sound. -[63.30 --> 71.30] The song creation sang when hope came down. -[73.14 --> 77.80] Let us sing redemption song. -[78.70 --> 84.10] Let us worship Christ the Holy One. -[84.10 --> 92.72] We were lost but we were found when hope came down. -[92.72 --> 96.72] When hope came down. -[96.72 --> 110.34] All of the angels lifted up their voices and filled the night with hallelujahs. -[110.34 --> 114.96] God is with us now. -[114.96 --> 120.58] Everyone come and join the heavenly chorus. -[120.58 --> 128.34] Our Savior, King, is here before us. -[128.34 --> 129.20] And we are with us now. -[129.20 --> 132.20] Let us worship Christ the Holy One. -[132.20 --> 135.26] Let us worship Christ the Holy One. -[135.26 --> 139.20] Let us worship Christ the Holy One. -[139.20 --> 143.24] When hope came down -[143.24 --> 153.98] When hope came, when hope came down -[169.20 --> 188.20] O come, all ye faithful -[188.20 --> 194.20] Joyful and triumphant -[194.20 --> 207.20] O come, ye O come ye to Bethlehem -[207.20 --> 214.20] Come and behold him -[214.20 --> 220.20] Born the King of angels -[220.20 --> 226.20] O come, let us adore him -[226.20 --> 232.20] O come, let us adore him -[232.20 --> 239.20] O come, let us adore him -[239.20 --> 246.20] Christ the Lord -[246.20 --> 253.20] O call of glory -[253.20 --> 262.20] O skipping this letter -[262.20 --> 267.24] Sing in exultation. -[267.24 --> 279.40] Sing all ye citizens of heaven above. -[281.00 --> 286.86] Glory to God, oh. -[286.86 --> 292.74] Glory in the highest. -[292.74 --> 299.06] Oh, come let us adore Him. -[299.28 --> 305.50] Oh, come let us adore Him. -[305.66 --> 315.24] Oh, come let us adore Him, Christ. -[315.24 --> 325.12] Lord, we worship Christ, Lord. -[327.12 --> 329.62] We worship You, Jesus. -[329.62 --> 337.12] Oh, come let us adore Him. -[337.12 --> 345.00] Oh, come let us adore Him. -[345.00 --> 349.00] Oh, come let us adore Him. -[349.00 --> 354.88] Happy morning, Jesus. -[354.88 --> 364.88] To Thee be all glory given. -[364.88 --> 371.76] Word of the Father. -[372.76 --> 377.76] All in flesh appearing. -[377.76 --> 385.64] Oh, come let us adore Him. -[385.64 --> 387.64] Oh, come let us adore Him. -[387.64 --> 388.64] Welcome, everyone. -[388.64 --> 389.64] It's good to have you all here. -[389.64 --> 393.64] Welcome to everyone online as well. -[393.64 --> 397.52] And a special welcome to all those visiting. -[397.52 --> 401.52] Yeah, we're really excited to have you here with us this evening. -[401.52 --> 407.52] Due to the recent COVID mandate and the evolving situation across the province, I ask you please, -[407.52 --> 417.40] well, I assume you've already sanitized as you walked in and please keep your mask on, especially while you're singing along with us. -[417.40 --> 430.40] Yeah, on your way in, if you were unable to contribute to the absurd flood relief and are still willing to help out, there's a link in the program to donate online and cash donations are still accepted as well. -[430.40 --> 431.40] Yeah, thank you. -[431.40 --> 434.40] Thank you so much for your support. -[434.40 --> 442.40] So tonight, as a church, we are thrilled to present to you Lloyd's Larson, Joy Has Dawned. -[442.40 --> 452.40] Joy Has Dawned is a Christmas musical celebrating the birth of Christ and the hope that He brings to the world. -[452.40 --> 459.40] The central theme of joy is highlighted through the familiar tunes, Joy to the World, Joyful, Joyful, -[459.40 --> 466.40] We Adore Thee, and through Keith Getty's new music, Joy Has Dawned, hence the title. -[466.40 --> 475.40] Interspersed with readings, Lloyd Larson takes these tunes, along with many more, to bring the Christmas story to life. -[475.40 --> 482.40] As the musical comes to a close, the listener is left with an overwhelming sense of hope. -[482.40 --> 491.40] A hope that only Christ can bring that is essential for overcoming the challenges of today's world. -[491.40 --> 497.40] Throughout the musical, there are portions where you, as a congregation, are encouraged to sing along. -[497.40 --> 505.40] Whenever the lyrics are yellow up, whenever the lyrics are yellow, you're welcome to join us. -[505.40 --> 512.40] The sing along portions in the program are only a select few near the end. -[512.40 --> 519.40] So I will now take a moment to thank all those involved who made this evening possible. -[519.40 --> 531.40] First, and most importantly, I thank my wife, Juliana, for supporting me through watching the kids during all the many rehearsals. -[531.40 --> 538.40] Without you, this evening doesn't happen. So thank you so much, honey. -[538.40 --> 546.40] Thank you, choir members, for all your time and effort invested into making this musical come together. -[546.40 --> 551.40] And for putting up with my antics all these weeks. -[551.40 --> 555.40] This includes our wonderful children's choir in the back there. -[555.40 --> 558.40] Thank you, kids, so much for doing this. -[558.40 --> 564.40] And of course, a thank you to their parents, bringing them to and from rehearsal. -[564.40 --> 573.40] A special thanks to my dad, Neil deGuis, for helping me transport the piano week after week after week -[573.40 --> 578.40] so I could more easily conduct rehearsals. -[578.40 --> 581.40] And he also provided everyone with folders. -[581.40 --> 590.40] A special thanks also to my mom, Katie deGuis, for assisting me with the logistics of this evening leading up to this evening. -[590.40 --> 593.40] And for providing singing masks for everybody. -[593.40 --> 600.40] Thank you, Eric, for so generously giving your time and expertise on the piano. -[600.40 --> 602.40] It's much appreciated. -[602.40 --> 608.40] Thank you, Peter and Fran, for your time spent learning these narrations. -[608.40 --> 614.40] Thank you, Ken, for assisting Eric in turning pages. -[614.40 --> 620.40] And thank you to the deacons who were able to help with this night. -[620.40 --> 622.40] Now those behind the scenes. -[622.40 --> 626.40] Thank you, Pastor Chris, for your invested interest in the musical. -[626.40 --> 629.40] Your approachability made everything easier. -[629.40 --> 632.40] Anything that needed discussing was quickly resolved. -[632.40 --> 636.40] Thank you, Langley Christian, for lending the choir risers. -[636.40 --> 641.40] And to Eric Van Heusen for lending the truck so I could transport them over here. -[641.40 --> 644.40] Thank you, Johanna, for helping coordinate this evening. -[644.40 --> 649.40] Thank you, Linda, for putting together the overheads. -[649.40 --> 651.40] And Matt, for handling the soundboard. -[651.40 --> 656.40] Thank you, Nicole, for putting together the Facebook Instagram post. -[656.40 --> 663.40] And last, but most certainly not least, thank you, Marilyn, for setting up the online link -[663.40 --> 665.40] and putting the programs together. -[665.40 --> 667.40] I hope I didn't miss anyone. -[667.40 --> 677.40] Now, for myself and I think Eric North here, this is sort of a special night. -[677.40 --> 688.40] So I, because there is someone here who, yeah, who had a musical influence on both of us. -[688.40 --> 691.40] Early in our musical development. -[691.40 --> 694.40] Way back in high school 20 years ago. -[694.40 --> 696.40] Yeah, so Mike Angel, I don't know where you are. -[696.40 --> 698.40] Could you stand up? -[698.40 --> 700.40] Yeah. -[700.40 --> 701.40] There he is. -[701.40 --> 702.40] Give him a round of applause. -[702.40 --> 703.40] Yeah, there he is. -[703.40 --> 704.40] Yeah, there he is. -[704.40 --> 717.40] Yeah, so Mike, yeah, it's Mr. and Mrs. Angel, it's great to have you here with us tonight. -[717.40 --> 723.40] Now, this was the portion that I wasn't sure how, it was, this was the most difficult part -[723.40 --> 724.40] to write. -[724.40 --> 727.40] Yes, I am reading off the script. -[727.40 --> 736.40] Yeah, so I would, I would, before we proceed to the musical, yeah, we need to acknowledge -[736.40 --> 740.40] someone who is unable to be here with us tonight. -[740.40 --> 746.40] Someone who brought an incredible amount of musical impact to the church here at Emmanuel. -[746.40 --> 756.40] Yeah, for those of you who don't know Dave Alexander, he passed away approximately one year ago from -[756.40 --> 761.40] ALS at far, far too young an age. -[761.40 --> 769.40] And, yeah, our heartfelt thoughts continue to go out to Juanita and the kids and all the surrounding family. -[769.40 --> 776.40] Dave was one of the worship leaders here at Emmanuel and also acted as choir director from time to time. -[776.40 --> 783.40] I didn't know Dave personally, yet at his celebration of life, I found myself getting emotional. -[783.40 --> 787.40] As a young boy, I was amazed how this guy could play the piano. -[787.40 --> 791.40] How many times is he going to change key, I thought to myself. -[791.40 --> 797.40] Did he write the chords down or did he just do that on the top of his head? -[797.40 --> 800.40] My guess was the latter. -[800.40 --> 807.40] I have fond memories playing bassoon in the orchestra for a cantata Dave was directing right here in this very space. -[807.40 --> 813.40] Before rehearsal, he would ask me to play a few notes on the bassoon because he loved the sound of it. -[813.40 --> 818.40] He was fond of many instruments though, as many of you know. -[818.40 --> 828.40] About three years ago, when we first formed the choir here at Emmanuel, Dave joined us right here on the stage in his wheelchair. -[828.40 --> 832.40] Afterwards, he commented, -[832.40 --> 837.40] I felt like I was part of the choir. -[837.40 --> 840.40] And he preached that Sunday. -[840.40 --> 842.40] Yeah. -[842.40 --> 847.40] So, yeah, we remember and we move forward. -[847.40 --> 864.40] At this time, before we dedicate the service to God through prayer, I ask that you all turn off your cell phones, pagers, anything I will make any noise to disrupt the musical. -[864.40 --> 869.40] After the prayer, we will begin the musical. -[869.40 --> 874.40] And I ask that you save your applause to the very end. -[874.40 --> 875.40] Thank you. -[875.40 --> 878.40] Now, John Folkerts will lead us in the prayer. -[878.40 --> 884.40] Shall we pray? -[884.40 --> 891.40] Heavenly Father, we bow our heads before you tonight. -[891.40 --> 899.40] We come here to adore you, to honor you, Lord, and to give you praise through music. -[899.40 --> 902.40] Lord, we thank you for these opportunities. -[902.40 --> 905.40] We thank you that we may come here together. -[905.40 --> 909.40] We thank you, Lord, for the gift of music. -[909.40 --> 911.40] We thank you for the gift of voices. -[911.40 --> 917.40] And we pray, Lord, that we may honor you as we use these gifts tonight. -[917.40 --> 926.40] And, Lord, for those of us who here are listening also, we pray that you would open our hearts and that we, too, may hear the words that are being spoken and sung. -[926.40 --> 936.40] And that together, Lord, we may praise you and give you all the glory and honor as we celebrate the joy of Christmas, the birth of your son, Jesus. -[936.40 --> 939.40] Lord, we thank you for your gift to us. -[939.40 --> 943.40] And we pray, Lord, that tonight you would accept our gifts to you also. -[943.40 --> 946.40] We pray this, Lord, in your name. -[946.40 --> 947.40] Amen. -[966.40 --> 969.40] We pray, Lord, we thank you for the gift of hugs. -[977.40 --> 978.40] Amen. -[979.40 --> 983.40] Amen. -[983.40 --> 984.40] Amen. -[984.40 --> 986.40] Amen. -[992.40 --> 993.40] Amen. -[993.40 --> 1019.56] Joy to the world, joy to the world, joy to the world, -[1019.56 --> 1029.56] joy to the world, the Lord has come. -[1029.56 --> 1034.56] Far by the sheep we watched at night, -[1034.56 --> 1039.56] black tidings brought an angel bright, -[1039.56 --> 1047.56] how great our joy, joy, joy, joy. -[1049.56 --> 1059.56] Praise be the Lord in Babylon high. -[1059.56 --> 1063.56] Where shall he once so he did say, -[1063.56 --> 1077.56] in Bethlehem today, how great our joy, joy, joy, joy. -[1077.56 --> 1083.56] Praise be the Lord in heaven high. -[1083.56 --> 1088.56] Thank you and praise be the Lord. -[1088.56 --> 1093.56] Hail and shield. -[1093.56 --> 1103.00] Feel sehen e His answer how great our joy, joy, joy, joy, joy. -[1103.00 --> 1104.00] Chant. -[1133.00 --> 1159.80] not -[1163.00 --> 1191.26] Joy to the world, the Lord is come, let earth receive her King, let every heart prepare Him room, and heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing, and heaven and earth, let nature sing. -[1191.26 --> 1221.24] We'll bring our joy, we'll bring our joy, joy to the earth, the Savior rings, let all their golden songs and blood, their songs and blood, -[1221.26 --> 1240.26] the fields and ponds, the hills and plains, repeat the sounding joy, repeat the sounding joy. -[1240.26 --> 1256.26] Joy to the world, the Lord has come. -[1256.26 --> 1268.74] Joy to the Lord, the Lord has come. -[1269.56 --> 1275.30] Joy has dawned and today we celebrate God's great gift of love to all. -[1275.30 --> 1287.22] But to Old Testament Israel, the hope of a brighter tomorrow, the promise of a joyful future, seemed an elusive dream. -[1287.22 --> 1297.46] For 400 years, God's chosen people languished in bondage, longing for the day when the promised Messiah would come to deliver them. -[1298.20 --> 1307.48] The prophet Isaiah had assured them that though they were a people walking in darkness, a great light would eventually shine upon them. -[1307.48 --> 1325.92] A child would be born, a son given, and the government would be upon his shoulders, and he would be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace. -[1325.92 --> 1332.40] Anguish and weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. -[1332.40 --> 1344.66] Joy, there'll be joy, joy, joy, joy, joy, joy, joy. -[1344.66 --> 1357.78] There'll be joy, there'll be joy, there'll be joy, there'll be joy in the morning of the day. -[1357.84 --> 1361.92] There'll be joy in the morning of the day. -[1361.92 --> 1366.30] For the bread of the dog, the good Lord, his is gone. -[1366.46 --> 1370.12] There'll be joy, joy, of the day. -[1370.12 --> 1375.76] And the glory, glory, glory of the Lord will shine. -[1375.76 --> 1387.12] And the glory, glory, glory of the Lord will bring the truth divine. -[1387.58 --> 1395.60] Joyful, joyful, we adore thee, God of glory, Lord of love. -[1395.60 --> 1405.60] Hearts unfold like flowers before thee, O pray to the Son of God. -[1411.60 --> 1418.60] There'll be joy, joy, joy, joy, joy, joy, joy, joy. -[1418.60 --> 1425.60] There'll be joy in the morning, there'll be joy in the morning of the dead. -[1426.60 --> 1430.82] And the bright, dark, and the dark is gone. -[1431.02 --> 1433.60] There'll be joy, joy, joy. -[1433.60 --> 1435.60] There'll be joy, joy, joy, joy. -[1435.60 --> 1439.60] There'll be joy, joy, joy. -[1439.60 --> 1442.60] There'll be joy, joy. -[1442.60 --> 1444.60] And the beauty of et Quality God has Pens чуть. -[1444.60 --> 1445.44] Cheren colored rocks -[1445.44 --> 1446.60] Have sweetest Head être爱親 with you and may be'? -[1446.60 --> 1448.60] Our sweet heart. -[1448.60 --> 1449.60] Have sweetest Head olla. -[1449.60 --> 1451.60] How sweet is it,笑ily cross upon ayeah? -[1451.60 --> 1454.60] Planning my life in the light ofère, -[1454.60 --> 1455.60] to be restored. -[1455.60 --> 1456.60] And the beauty of such 대단 connais. -[1456.60 --> 1457.60] A緒 of wiederke può peon, -[1457.60 --> 1459.40] all say, that Gonzalo, -[1459.40 --> 1460.40] It's the hazır gestion année. -[1460.40 --> 1461.60] In the victory of desire. -[1461.60 --> 1462.60] What request — -[1462.60 --> 1463.60] Hy Zwege it ties читają with his second show -[1463.60 --> 1464.60] Year and June. -[1464.60 --> 1465.60] Sounds we divorced. -[1465.60 --> 1466.54] They're glad to learn, -[1466.54 --> 1467.80] White Untiecul wise Deigent white knight. -[1467.80 --> 1474.80] And the glory, glory, glory of the Lord will shine. -[1474.80 --> 1485.80] The glory, glory, glory of the Lord will bring the truth divine. -[1485.80 --> 1510.80] Let the glory, glory, glory of the Lord will bring the truth divine. -[1515.80 --> 1521.80] Isaiah prophesied that a virgin would conceive and give birth to Emmanuel. -[1521.80 --> 1530.80] In God's perfect timing, a young maiden named Mary, who was engaged to a man named Joseph, a descendant of King David, -[1530.80 --> 1535.80] was chosen by God to become the mother of the promised Messiah. -[1535.80 --> 1544.80] And so it came to be that Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. -[1544.80 --> 1550.80] Mary and Joseph went up from the town of Nazareth to Bethlehem, the town of David. -[1550.80 --> 1556.80] And while they were there, the time came for the baby to be born. -[1556.80 --> 1567.80] Born a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, for there had been no room for them in the inn. -[1567.80 --> 1569.80] Mary had a baby, my Lord. -[1569.80 --> 1573.80] Mary had a baby, my Lord. -[1573.80 --> 1577.80] Mary had a baby, my Lord. -[1577.80 --> 1585.80] Mary had a baby, my Lord. -[1585.80 --> 1593.80] Mary had a baby, my Lord. -[1593.80 --> 1615.80] Mary had a baby, my Lord. -[1615.80 --> 1625.80] Mary had a baby, my Lord. -[1625.80 --> 1630.60] did she name him -[1636.68 --> 1643.72] did -[1644.36 --> 1656.12] is -[1656.52 --> 1670.12] is -[1670.12 --> 1685.08] is -[1685.08 --> 1708.52] oh -[1708.52 --> 1710.52] Oh -[1738.52 --> 1740.52] Oh -[1768.52 --> 1770.52] Oh -[1795.56 --> 1797.56] It was a quiet night -[1798.52 --> 1800.02] Just an ordinary night -[1800.02 --> 1802.38] There were shepherds -[1802.38 --> 1804.70] Keeping watch over their sheep -[1804.70 --> 1806.74] On a Judean hillside -[1806.74 --> 1808.52] Outside of Bethlehem -[1808.52 --> 1814.88] When an angel appeared to the shepherds -[1814.88 --> 1818.02] And the glory of the Lord shone around them -[1818.02 --> 1819.60] They were terrified -[1819.60 --> 1822.14] The angel said to them -[1822.14 --> 1824.26] Do not be afraid -[1824.26 --> 1827.60] For I bring you good news of great joy -[1827.60 --> 1828.64] Today -[1828.64 --> 1830.46] In the town of David -[1830.46 --> 1832.92] A savior has been born -[1832.92 --> 1835.82] He is Christ the Lord -[1835.82 --> 1837.70] You will find -[1837.70 --> 1840.56] The baby wrapped in cloths -[1840.56 --> 1841.86] Lying in a manger -[1841.86 --> 1843.44] Suddenly -[1843.44 --> 1846.14] A great company of the heavenly host -[1846.14 --> 1847.64] Appeared with the angel -[1847.64 --> 1849.84] Praising God and saying -[1849.84 --> 1852.46] Glory to God in the highest -[1852.46 --> 1853.40] And on earth -[1853.40 --> 1854.38] Peace to all -[1854.38 --> 1865.82] Joy has gone -[1865.82 --> 1867.96] The angels are singing -[1867.96 --> 1869.82] Christ is born -[1869.82 --> 1871.78] This holy night -[1871.78 --> 1875.94] Gloria in excelsis day -[1875.94 --> 1877.86] Welcome to the child -[1877.86 --> 1878.94] The king forever -[1878.94 --> 1880.10] The king forever -[1880.10 --> 1882.94] Hope has come tonight -[1882.94 --> 1886.32] In Bethlehem -[1886.32 --> 1889.20] Go worship the newborn king -[1889.20 --> 1898.84] Joy has done -[1898.84 --> 1901.06] The heavens are ringing -[1901.06 --> 1904.74] Christ is born in a humble stall -[1904.74 --> 1908.96] Gloria in excelsis day -[1908.96 --> 1910.60] By the child -[1910.60 --> 1910.62] By the child -[1910.62 --> 1912.98] Crying in a manger -[1912.98 --> 1913.66] Peace -[1913.66 --> 1916.74] Has come tonight -[1916.74 --> 1919.08] In Bethlehem -[1919.08 --> 1925.28] Go worship the newborn king -[1925.28 --> 1929.76] For to reign in us forever -[1929.76 --> 1933.80] For to set his people free -[1933.80 --> 1940.56] Dear desire of every nation -[1940.56 --> 1945.48] Joy of every longing heart -[1945.48 --> 1948.44] Longing heart -[1948.44 --> 1954.80] Joy has done -[1954.80 --> 1956.84] The shepherds are bringing -[1956.84 --> 1960.62] Gifts of love, adoration, and praise -[1960.62 --> 1990.60] Gloria in excelsis day -[1990.60 --> 1991.54] Christ is born -[1991.54 --> 1992.54] Christ is born -[1992.54 --> 1993.54] Joy has done -[1993.54 --> 2003.14] The shepherds immediately left -[2003.14 --> 2007.04] And soon found Mary, Joseph, and the newborn baby -[2007.04 --> 2009.24] Who was lying in the manger -[2009.24 --> 2012.08] Just as the angel had told them -[2012.08 --> 2015.54] After offering their humble gifts -[2015.54 --> 2017.68] Of adoration and praise -[2017.68 --> 2018.62] They hurried off -[2018.62 --> 2020.24] They hurried off to spread the word -[2020.24 --> 2021.54] All they had witnessed -[2021.54 --> 2023.68] The angelic proclamation -[2023.68 --> 2026.14] The newborn child in the manger -[2026.14 --> 2028.72] The wonder of two young parents -[2028.72 --> 2031.10] Embracing their miraculous roles -[2031.10 --> 2033.62] In God's unfolding story -[2033.62 --> 2036.82] All who heard it -[2036.82 --> 2040.24] Were amazed at what the shepherds said -[2040.24 --> 2042.92] But Mary treasured up -[2042.92 --> 2044.68] All of these things -[2044.68 --> 2047.26] And pondered them in her heart -[2047.26 --> 2053.12] Jesus, joy of the highest heaven -[2053.12 --> 2056.76] Born as a little baby -[2056.76 --> 2061.12] Under a wondrous star -[2061.12 --> 2067.02] Like us, crying, he takes his first breath -[2067.02 --> 2070.42] Fell by his mother, helpless -[2070.42 --> 2074.36] Close to her meeting heart -[2074.36 --> 2079.74] Jesus, live in a lowly manger -[2079.74 --> 2083.94] Facing a world of dangers -[2083.94 --> 2087.30] Won't you turn me a stranger -[2087.30 --> 2090.98] Into a child of God -[2090.98 --> 2096.84] Jesus, live in a lowly manger -[2096.84 --> 2101.08] Facing a world of dangers -[2101.08 --> 2104.32] Come to turn me a stranger -[2104.32 --> 2108.92] Into a child of God -[2108.92 --> 2122.98] O Jesus, King of the highest heaven -[2122.98 --> 2126.68] Learning to take his first step -[2126.68 --> 2130.28] That he might play his life -[2130.28 --> 2135.80] Like us, knowing our smiles and sorrows -[2135.80 --> 2139.12] He shall know the way to follow -[2139.12 --> 2142.76] A way that is true and right -[2142.76 --> 2148.16] Jesus, take away every darkness -[2148.16 --> 2151.52] Standing my sinful footsteps -[2151.52 --> 2155.44] That I might in your goodness -[2155.44 --> 2159.04] Live as a child of God -[2159.04 --> 2164.16] Jesus, take away every darkness -[2164.16 --> 2167.98] Say my sinful footsteps -[2167.98 --> 2171.48] That I might in your goodness -[2171.48 --> 2177.16] Live as a child of God -[2177.16 --> 2184.34] A way in a manger -[2184.34 --> 2189.30] A friend for a friend -[2189.30 --> 2194.00] The little Lord Jesus -[2194.00 --> 2199.18] Lay down his sweet hand -[2199.18 --> 2204.30] The stars in the bright sky -[2204.30 --> 2209.12] Look down where he lay -[2209.12 --> 2213.98] The little Lord Jesus -[2213.98 --> 2215.98] As we -[2215.98 --> 2221.98] Onward Jesus -[2221.98 --> 2226.98] Joy of the highest heaven -[2226.98 --> 2230.66] Born as a little baby -[2230.66 --> 2237.98] Under a wondrous star -[2237.98 --> 2239.98] A way in a manger -[2239.98 --> 2252.78] After Jesus was born in Bethlehem -[2252.78 --> 2254.70] During the reign of King Herod -[2254.70 --> 2256.80] There were Magi from the east -[2256.80 --> 2257.96] Who came to Jerusalem -[2257.96 --> 2258.80] Asking -[2258.80 --> 2261.30] Where is the one who has been born -[2261.30 --> 2262.38] King of the Jews? -[2262.98 --> 2265.26] We have seen his star in the east -[2265.26 --> 2267.26] And have come to worship him -[2267.26 --> 2268.76] King Herod -[2268.76 --> 2271.30] Disturbed by this inquiry -[2271.30 --> 2273.06] Called together the chief priests -[2273.06 --> 2274.36] And teachers of the law -[2274.36 --> 2276.54] Asking them where the Christ -[2276.54 --> 2277.44] Was to be born -[2277.44 --> 2279.58] In Bethlehem of Judea -[2279.58 --> 2280.82] They replied -[2280.82 --> 2283.26] Quoting from the prophet Micah -[2283.80 --> 2286.62] Herod called the Magi secretly -[2286.62 --> 2288.38] And found out from them -[2288.38 --> 2290.78] The exact time the star had appeared -[2290.78 --> 2293.08] He sent them to Bethlehem -[2293.08 --> 2293.60] And said -[2293.60 --> 2296.40] Go and make a careful search -[2296.40 --> 2297.22] For the child -[2297.22 --> 2299.12] Then report to me -[2299.12 --> 2300.80] So that I too -[2300.80 --> 2302.54] May go and worship him -[2302.54 --> 2304.88] The Magi went on their way -[2304.88 --> 2306.70] And the star they had seen -[2306.70 --> 2307.40] In the east -[2307.40 --> 2308.50] Went before them -[2308.50 --> 2310.34] Until it stopped over the place -[2310.34 --> 2311.92] Where the child was -[2311.92 --> 2313.88] There they found Mary -[2313.88 --> 2316.00] With his mother Mary -[2316.00 --> 2317.14] There they found Jesus -[2317.14 --> 2318.36] With his mother Mary -[2318.36 --> 2320.28] They bowed down -[2320.28 --> 2321.38] And worshipped him -[2321.38 --> 2322.96] Opening their treasures -[2322.96 --> 2323.98] They presented him -[2323.98 --> 2325.24] With gifts of gold -[2325.24 --> 2327.18] Incense and myrrh -[2327.18 --> 2339.24] And the star of the morning -[2339.24 --> 2341.66] Dawn on our clock -[2341.66 --> 2344.78] They're set come to our ring -[2344.78 --> 2347.48] Star on the east -[2347.48 --> 2350.52] Horizon adorning -[2350.52 --> 2352.94] Guide where our infant -[2352.94 --> 2356.10] Redeemer is made -[2356.10 --> 2362.10] And where our redeemer is made -[2362.10 --> 2366.26] God shall we -[2366.26 --> 2367.62] Good shall we -[2367.62 --> 2369.58] Give us the devotion -[2369.58 --> 2371.98] Shall we reach -[2371.98 --> 2375.58] And we make offerings divine -[2375.58 --> 2378.44] Gems of the mountain -[2378.44 --> 2381.22] And pearls of the ocean -[2381.22 --> 2384.10] Learn from the forest -[2384.10 --> 2387.22] Myrrh or gold from the mine -[2387.22 --> 2391.10] Myrrh or gold from the mine -[2391.10 --> 2393.10] Myrrh or gold from the mine -[2393.10 --> 2398.22] What child is this -[2398.22 --> 2401.10] Who lay to rest -[2401.10 --> 2406.10] On Mary's lap is sleeping -[2406.10 --> 2409.10] Whom angels greet -[2409.10 --> 2409.68] Whom angels greet -[2409.68 --> 2411.10] With anthems sweet -[2411.10 --> 2417.10] While shepherds want our keeping -[2417.10 --> 2423.10] His praise is Christ the king -[2423.10 --> 2424.10] Whom shepherds gone -[2424.10 --> 2426.10] Whom shepherds gone -[2426.10 --> 2428.10] And angels sing -[2428.10 --> 2430.10] His days to bring him long -[2430.10 --> 2434.10] The thin and son of Mary -[2434.10 --> 2441.10] The thin and son of Mary -[2441.10 --> 2449.10] So break him insens -[2449.10 --> 2451.10] Gold and murder -[2451.10 --> 2455.10] The pleasant king to own him -[2455.10 --> 2462.10] The king of kings salvation -[2462.10 --> 2467.10] Brings that loving heart's enthroned -[2467.10 --> 2468.10] Him -[2468.10 --> 2474.10] Raise, raise that song on high -[2474.10 --> 2475.10] The virgin saints -[2475.10 --> 2476.10] The virgin saints -[2476.10 --> 2477.10] The lullaby -[2477.10 --> 2481.10] Joy, joy, for Christ is born -[2481.10 --> 2483.10] The king, the son of Mary -[2483.10 --> 2485.10] For Christ is born -[2485.10 --> 2498.10] The king, the son of Mary -[2498.10 --> 2504.10] Brightest and best of the stars of the morning -[2504.10 --> 2525.10] Guide where our Redeemer is made -[2525.10 --> 2529.10] The Christmas story is a story of joy -[2529.10 --> 2532.10] The Lord has done great things -[2532.10 --> 2535.10] And we are filled with joy -[2535.10 --> 2536.10] Let the nations be glad -[2536.10 --> 2538.10] And sing for joy -[2538.10 --> 2541.10] The joy of the Lord is my strength -[2541.10 --> 2543.10] Those who sow in tears -[2543.10 --> 2546.10] Will reap with songs of joy -[2546.10 --> 2548.10] Shout for joy to the Lord -[2548.10 --> 2549.10] All the earth -[2549.10 --> 2552.10] This is a story of great joy -[2552.10 --> 2555.10] It is a fulfillment of God's promise -[2555.10 --> 2557.10] To end the night of suffering -[2557.10 --> 2560.10] With the dawn of redeeming light -[2562.10 --> 2564.10] The joy of the holy with the holy with the holy with the holy way -[2564.10 --> 2565.10] Through your household -[2565.10 --> 2582.14] GLOR Your children -[2582.14 --> 2596.14] Gloria in excelsis Deo -[2600.14 --> 2603.14] Joy has dawned upon the world, -[2603.14 --> 2607.14] Promise from creation, -[2607.14 --> 2611.14] God's salvation now and firm, -[2611.14 --> 2614.14] Bold for every nation, -[2614.14 --> 2618.14] Not with fanfares from above, -[2618.14 --> 2622.14] Not with scenes of glory, -[2622.14 --> 2626.14] But a humble gift of love, -[2626.14 --> 2632.14] Jesus born of Mary. -[2632.14 --> 2641.14] Sounds of wonder fill the sky, -[2641.14 --> 2645.14] With the songs of angels, -[2645.14 --> 2649.14] Angels save the mighty Prince of Life, -[2649.14 --> 2654.14] Shelters in a stable, -[2654.14 --> 2658.14] Hands that set each star in place, -[2658.14 --> 2664.14] Shape the earth in darkness. -[2664.14 --> 2669.14] And sing now to a mother's breast, -[2669.14 --> 2673.14] All wonderful and help, -[2673.14 --> 2677.14] Come to death of heaven and sea, -[2677.14 --> 2681.14] In whose birth the angels say, -[2681.14 --> 2685.14] Come adore all men to me, -[2685.14 --> 2690.14] Christ the Lord, the new one King. -[2690.14 --> 2702.14] Gloria in excelsis Deo -[2702.14 --> 2711.14] Gloria in excelsis Deo -[2711.14 --> 2715.14] Gloria in excelsis Deo -[2715.14 --> 2719.14] Gloria in excelsis Deo -[2719.14 --> 2721.14] judgment -[2721.14 --> 2722.14] Maui -[2722.14 --> 2724.06] IBravo -[2724.06 --> 2733.30] Shepherds bowing for the Lamb, Gazing at the glory, -[2733.30 --> 2743.62] Gives of them from distant lands, Prophesize a story. -[2743.62 --> 2751.22] Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah! -[2751.22 --> 2755.62] In excelsis Deo! -[2755.62 --> 2780.02] To all our love, Gloria, Gloria, In excelsis Deo! -[2781.22 --> 2785.62] Thank you. -[2785.62 --> 2790.02] Thank you. -[2790.02 --> 2794.42] Thank you. -[2794.42 --> 2798.82] Thank you. -[2798.82 --> 2803.22] Thank you. -[2803.22 --> 2807.62] Thank you. -[2807.62 --> 2809.62] Thank you. -[2809.62 --> 2811.62] Thank you. -[2811.62 --> 2813.62] Thank you. -[2813.62 --> 2821.62] With angels, shepherds, and magi, we celebrate the joyous news that the Messiah has been born. -[2821.62 --> 2826.02] Joy has dawned upon the world. -[2826.02 --> 2828.02] Joy to the world. -[2828.02 --> 2830.02] The Lord has come. -[2830.02 --> 2833.02] Let earth receive her King. -[2833.02 --> 2840.02] Good Christian friends, rejoice with heart and soul and voice, for Christ is born today. -[2840.02 --> 2844.42] Go, tell it on the mountain. -[2844.42 --> 2848.42] Shout it from the mountain tops, Jesus Christ is born. -[2848.42 --> 2852.82] Good Christian friends, rejoice with heart and soul and voice, give me dear to what we say, Jesus -[2852.82 --> 2857.22] Christ is born today. -[2857.22 --> 2862.82] All sing as before and bow, and He is in the manger now. -[2862.82 --> 2864.82] Christ is born today. -[2864.82 --> 2866.82] Christ is born today. -[2866.82 --> 2868.82] Christ is born today. -[2868.82 --> 2872.82] Good Christian friends, rejoice with heart and soul and heart and soul and heart and soul and heart and soul. -[2872.82 --> 2898.82] Now Him, hear the hear of endless bliss, Jesus Christ was born for days, Jesus Christ was born for days. -[2898.82 --> 2901.86] Jesus Christ was born for this. -[2902.24 --> 2908.38] He has opened heaven's door and we are blessed forevermore. -[2908.78 --> 2911.94] Christ was born for this. -[2912.60 --> 2917.40] Christ was born for this. -[2923.94 --> 2928.10] Joy has gone, the angels are singing. -[2928.10 --> 2931.82] Christ is born this holy night. -[2932.30 --> 2935.96] Gloria in excelsis day. -[2935.96 --> 2939.88] Welcome the child, the king forever. -[2940.18 --> 2945.86] Hope has come tonight in Bethlehem. -[2945.96 --> 2950.78] Go, worship the newborn king. -[2952.68 --> 2956.36] Born to reign in us forever. -[2956.36 --> 2962.08] For to set his people free. -[2962.08 --> 2967.14] Dear desire of every nation. -[2967.14 --> 2970.36] Joy of every longing. -[2970.36 --> 2972.36] Joy of every longing. -[2972.36 --> 2974.08] Joy of every longing. -[2974.08 --> 2976.08] Joy of every longing. -[2976.08 --> 2978.08] Joy of every longing. -[2978.08 --> 2980.08] Joy of every longing. -[2980.08 --> 2983.14] Go, tell it on the mountain. -[2983.14 --> 2987.08] Over the hills and everywhere. -[2987.08 --> 2990.80] Go, tell it on the mountain. -[2990.80 --> 2994.80] That Jesus Christ is born. -[2994.80 --> 2996.52] Joy of every longing. -[2996.52 --> 3000.52] How shepherds can't fear marching. -[3000.52 --> 3004.24] For silent flocks by night. -[3004.24 --> 3008.24] Behold, throughout the heavens. -[3008.24 --> 3009.96] There's a joy of every longing. -[3009.96 --> 3011.96] There's a joy of holy love. -[3011.96 --> 3013.96] Love, Lord. -[3013.96 --> 3015.96] Love, Lord. -[3015.96 --> 3018.96] Go, tell it on the mountain. -[3018.96 --> 3023.96] Over the hills and everywhere. -[3023.96 --> 3026.96] Go, tell it on the mountain. -[3026.96 --> 3038.68] That Jesus Christ is born. -[3038.68 --> 3040.40] God, love, Lord. -[3040.40 --> 3042.40] And the shepherds fear and tremble. -[3042.40 --> 3045.40] When low above the earth. -[3045.40 --> 3046.40] The love of the earth. -[3046.40 --> 3047.40] The love of the earth. -[3047.40 --> 3049.40] And the forest. -[3049.40 --> 3054.40] That him our Savior's birth. -[3054.40 --> 3055.12] God, love, Lord. -[3055.12 --> 3056.12] Love, Lord. -[3056.12 --> 3058.12] Love, Lord. -[3058.12 --> 3062.12] Go, tell it on the mountain. -[3062.12 --> 3066.98] Over the hills and everywhere. -[3066.98 --> 3070.12] Go, tell it on the mountain. -[3070.12 --> 3074.90] That Jesus Christ is born. -[3074.90 --> 3078.12] Joy has gone to the angel's song. -[3078.12 --> 3092.12] that jesus christ is -[3108.12 --> 3121.96] excellent job mark why don't you just stay right here wow right thank you for being here -[3127.56 --> 3129.32] let's thank the choir one more time -[3129.32 --> 3141.56] we also wanted to take this opportunity and say thank you to eric on the piano and ken his helper -[3149.88 --> 3154.68] and then of course to our illustrious director mark thank you very much for all the work that -[3154.68 --> 3168.68] you've put into this tonight -[3175.72 --> 3182.68] and then as you're taking your seats one more time for the kids right -[3184.68 --> 3192.36] and now i don't know about you but it's bedtime for mine so -[3193.96 --> 3199.56] i'm going to close the evening with a word of prayer and then we're going to head on our way -[3199.56 --> 3208.36] into this last week before christmas and so indeed as we have heard and sung tonight joy is come in -[3208.36 --> 3213.88] the lord jesus christ and it's our prayer that tonight and in the rest of this christmas season -[3213.88 --> 3220.76] you will experience more and more the truth of who jesus is that he might impact your heart -[3220.76 --> 3227.40] this season if you are wondering about jesus if you have questions or you like to connect with -[3227.40 --> 3232.68] someone you can grab me following the service or you can contact our church office through the week -[3232.68 --> 3239.80] and i'm happy to have any conversations or prayers or notes with you in that regard as we go would you -[3239.80 --> 3242.04] pray with me let's join our hearts together in prayer -[3246.68 --> 3256.84] indeed lord god joy to the world we praise your name tonight for the miracle of christmas for the -[3256.84 --> 3264.44] miracle of the incarnation of god taking on flesh and dwelling among us -[3264.44 --> 3274.60] for the miracle that appears to us in meekness and in majesty for the miracle that appears to us and -[3274.60 --> 3283.56] caused the shepherds and the whole town of bethlehem to rejoice in praise of god at work in the world -[3283.56 --> 3292.68] and so we go now this week lord god having given you praise with our worship and our songs that we might -[3292.68 --> 3299.24] now give you praise with our lives and so lord jesus go with us in the power of your spirit -[3300.44 --> 3304.36] that we might minister your mercy and your grace to a world in need -[3304.36 --> 3310.20] there's so much happening in the world right now lord god -[3311.88 --> 3320.92] reasons to celebrate and reasons to mourn reasons to rejoice and reasons to cry out in anguish -[3322.76 --> 3332.12] father god into all of those places and spaces we now go may we be ambassadors of your light to the world -[3332.12 --> 3347.16] the world send us out now as light in the world to dispel the darkness in the name of jesus christ we pray amen amen -[3350.36 --> 3355.64] sorry i'm hope i'm not dragging it on here but um yeah i just wanted to say thank you for all coming out -[3355.64 --> 3362.84] and uh in uh this era of covet i appreciate it i've been waiting to about almost three years to do this -[3362.84 --> 3367.56] musical and kovac keeps on getting in the way and i was we had the online sign i'm going so i was all -[3367.56 --> 3371.96] excited when i saw people signing up and people kept on signing up so i'm like oh yes yes yes this is -[3371.96 --> 3377.32] going to be good because the ultimate goal was to have everybody's ears hear the music because it's -[3377.32 --> 3384.28] great music lloyd larson is fantastic arranger so praise praise be to god for him so thank you and all the good night -[3385.64 --> 3386.02] like diff --git a/Listless Wandering or Lavish Wonder (Sermon)_summary.txt b/Listless Wandering or Lavish Wonder (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 1da39613c39bd9355cca71177695f005e0221c95..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Listless Wandering or Lavish Wonder (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,42 +0,0 @@ -• The book of Habakkuk continues to be discussed -• Discussion of pronouncing the name "Habakkuk" -• Recap of last week's sermon on the problem of evil and God's sovereignty -• Background information on the prophet Habakkuk, who wrote around 600 BC in Judah before the Babylonian exile -• Habakkuk sees injustice and evil happening globally and locally due to the actions of foreign oppressors and local leaders -• The book of Habakkuk is a poetic dialogue between God and Habakkuk's complaints and responses -• Reading from Habakkuk 2:2-20, where God responds to Habakkuk's second complaint about using an evil people (Babylonians) to punish the people of Judah -• Explanation of God's response in Habakkuk 2, which emphasizes patience and trust in God despite apparent injustices -• Disgrace will cover someone's glory due to their violence towards Lebanon and destruction of animals -• The Lord is in his holy temple, and all the earth should be silent before him -• A story about a father and son walking through a park illustrates two different paths leading to the same destination -• Chapter 2 helps reveal that God's goal is His glory and our experience of it -• Two avenues are used to reach this end: a survey of history from beginning to new beginning, and a comparison with lesser or misplaced glories (idolatry) -• The Bible verse "For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as waters cover the sea" from Habakkuk is discussed. -• The concept of the "knowledge" in Hebrew is explained to have a depth and intimacy, referring to a relational characteristic and a covenant with God. -• The glory of the Lord is described as the public display of God's holiness, perfection, and righteousness, including His distinctness and set-apartness. -• Holiness for both God and humans is discussed as an ontological and existential reality, involving being changed and transformed by experiencing the glory of God. -• The goal of this transformation is to change the world, making it "filled" with the knowledge of God's glory. -• The glory of God will be everywhere -• God's goal in creation is for him to be glorified -• It's not about us, but rather God's glory and worship -• History is about God's going public over the whole earth that we might experience him -• We are created to have a relationship with God, and when we make it all about him, we find our joy and purpose and meaning and power -• The glory of God is the human being fully alive -• To live as a human being fully alive is to live for the glory of God -• Anything else in life that is not centered on God's glory is a cheap substitute or lesser glory. -• The dangers of consumerism and its tendency to lead to dissatisfaction -• The pursuit of status, position, and power as a lesser glory that can corrupt and lead to ruin -• The misuse of authority and power, including the abuse of government, church leadership, and parental authority -• Taking advantage of people, particularly in exploitative relationships or behaviors -• Reducing others to mere tools for one's own purposes, rather than valuing them as ends in themselves -• The lesser glories exchanged for the greater glory of God -• Idolatry and placing human creation in the place of God -• God's desire to have his people reflect his glory -• Humanity's rejection of God and choosing instead their own desires -• God's promise and redemption through Abraham, Israel, and ultimately Jesus Christ -• The culmination of God's revelation in Jesus Christ and its continuation through the church -• The return of Jesus Christ and the establishment of God's kingdom on earth -• The glory of God being present with man, and the new Jerusalem coming without a temple -• Waiting for God's promise to be fulfilled, even when it seems delayed or challenging -• Living by faith in a world filled with evil and injustice -• Turning from lesser glories to experience the majesty of God's greatest glory \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Listless Wandering or Lavish Wonder (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/Listless Wandering or Lavish Wonder (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f924353188ba39215839afd1d57fcce2c8b9bd65..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Listless Wandering or Lavish Wonder (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,562 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 14.80] This morning we are continuing in our series looking at the book of Habakkuk. -[15.26 --> 20.94] And before I read, and we're going to read this morning from Habakkuk 2, starting at verse 2 through the end of the chapter. -[20.94 --> 32.50] Before I read, let me just say I really appreciate everyone's engagement and comments and conversations that are started that come out of these messages. -[33.56 --> 43.22] But let me also say I was really surprised how in a sermon on the problem of evil and the sovereignty of God, even in the face of that last week, -[43.28 --> 48.06] the most controversial thing I said was how to pronounce Habakkuk. -[48.06 --> 57.62] Even this morning, someone sent me a text of a YouTube video that supposedly tells you how to properly say it, and the YouTube video is wrong. -[58.10 --> 58.68] Sorry, Clary. -[63.28 --> 70.42] Point is, I do appreciate the engagement and the chance to have these sorts of follow-up conversations, -[70.42 --> 73.38] especially in times like this and this season. -[73.38 --> 78.12] We don't get that in the same way, and so I do cherish it. -[78.76 --> 86.10] So I want to invite you to grab a Bible, maybe grab a notebook, whatever the case may be, to help you in our engagement this morning. -[86.88 --> 90.70] We're going to read from Habakkuk 2, starting at verse 2. -[90.70 --> 100.84] Now, before I begin, maybe this is your first time joining us, or you forgot already what we covered last week, -[100.88 --> 103.98] but just a quick recap about Habakkuk. -[104.46 --> 111.54] Habakkuk is a prophet in Judah before the people of God are taken by the Babylonians into exile. -[112.94 --> 118.10] Habakkuk is living and writing sometime around 600, 605 BC. -[118.10 --> 125.74] Now, the Babylonians, who once acted as Israel's allies, have now turned against them, -[125.74 --> 132.42] and in fact, as we saw last week, are being used by God to bring judgment on Israel and Judah -[132.42 --> 136.92] because the ways that they have acted not of God. -[136.92 --> 144.00] So Habakkuk sees the injustice and evil that is happening globally with foreign oppressors and war, -[144.00 --> 152.26] and Habakkuk sees injustice and evil happening locally with abuses of power and poverty and selfishness -[152.26 --> 158.46] as the political and religious leaders of his day aren't acting faithfully in obedience to God. -[158.46 --> 168.38] Now, the book of Habakkuk is set up for us as a poetic dialogue between the prophet and God. -[168.38 --> 177.66] And it goes back and forth between what some have called, and maybe your Bibles call it as the editors have put headings in places, -[178.16 --> 182.82] back and forth between Habakkuk's complaints and then God's responses. -[182.82 --> 192.50] Today, I'm going to read God's response to Habakkuk's second complaint. -[193.54 --> 200.52] Now, Habakkuk, if you recall, has just balked at the idea that God would use an evil people, the Babylonians, -[200.62 --> 204.20] to publish a lesser evil, the people of Judah. -[204.80 --> 207.78] And Habakkuk doesn't understand why in the midst of that, -[207.78 --> 212.58] that God would appear to be silent and let bad things happen to good people. -[213.38 --> 217.98] That was the digging and exploring and thinking we did last week. -[218.06 --> 221.28] You can check on the YouTube channel if you want to find that. -[222.30 --> 225.82] Now, Habakkuk is pretty brazen in his complaint, right? -[225.86 --> 230.08] He finishes his second complaint by saying effectively, and I'm paraphrasing him here, -[230.14 --> 230.42] he's saying, -[230.42 --> 231.42] I'm here, God. -[232.02 --> 232.84] I'm waiting. -[233.10 --> 234.22] I'm not going anywhere. -[234.50 --> 235.30] I will wait. -[235.74 --> 236.82] You answer. -[238.36 --> 241.12] What we're going to read is God's answer. -[242.00 --> 243.26] Let me read it with you. -[245.26 --> 246.66] The Lord replied, -[248.26 --> 253.96] Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it. -[254.84 --> 258.12] For the revelation awaits an appointed time. -[258.12 --> 261.68] It speaks of an end and will not prove false. -[262.46 --> 265.38] Though it linger, wait for it. -[265.98 --> 268.64] It will certainly come and will not delay. -[270.20 --> 272.32] See, he is puffed up. -[272.40 --> 277.78] His desires are not upright, but the righteous will live by his faith. -[278.94 --> 280.82] Indeed, wine betrays him. -[280.90 --> 282.64] He is arrogant and never at rest. -[282.94 --> 287.12] Because he is as greedy as the grave and like death is never satisfied, -[287.12 --> 293.54] he gathers to himself all the nations and takes captive all the peoples. -[293.54 --> 299.92] Will not all of them taunt him with ridicule and scorn, -[300.08 --> 300.42] saying, -[301.02 --> 306.34] Woe to him who piles up stolen goods and makes himself wealthy by extortion. -[306.90 --> 309.00] How long must this go on? -[310.04 --> 312.44] Will not your debtors suddenly arise? -[312.90 --> 314.98] Will they not wake up and make you tremble? -[315.28 --> 316.94] Then you will become their victim. -[316.94 --> 322.42] Because you have plundered many nations, the peoples who are left will plunder you. -[323.48 --> 328.58] For you have shed man's blood and you have destroyed the lands and cities and everyone in them. -[330.26 --> 337.94] Woe to him who builds his realm by unjust gain to set his nest on high to escape the clutches of ruin. -[337.94 --> 345.12] You have plotted the ruin of many peoples, shaming your own house and forfeiting your life. -[346.04 --> 351.50] The stones of the wall will cry out and the beams of the woodwork will echo it. -[353.24 --> 358.22] Woe to him who builds a city with bloodshed and establishes a town by crime. -[358.90 --> 363.54] Has not the Lord Almighty determined that the people's labor is only fuel for the fire, -[363.64 --> 365.82] that the nations exhaust themselves for nothing? -[365.82 --> 373.72] For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea. -[375.50 --> 380.64] Woe to him who gives drink to his neighbors, pouring it from the wineskin till they are drunk, -[380.84 --> 383.26] so that they can gaze on their naked bodies. -[383.90 --> 386.34] You will be filled with shame instead of glory. -[386.86 --> 388.02] Now it is your turn. -[388.38 --> 389.76] Drink and be exposed. -[389.76 --> 395.64] The cup from the Lord's right hand is coming around to you and disgrace will cover your glory. -[395.82 --> 403.90] The violence you have done to Lebanon will overwhelm you and your destruction of animals will terrify you. -[404.38 --> 406.22] For you have shed man's blood. -[406.34 --> 409.26] You have destroyed the lands and cities and everyone in them. -[409.26 --> 415.22] Of what value is an idol, since a man has carved it? -[415.78 --> 417.84] Or an image that teaches lies? -[418.60 --> 421.24] For he who makes it trusts in his own creation. -[421.60 --> 423.52] He makes idols that cannot speak. -[424.14 --> 429.44] Woe to him who says to wood, come to life or to lifeless stone, wake up. -[430.26 --> 431.28] Can it give guidance? -[431.28 --> 434.38] It's covered with silver and gold. -[434.82 --> 436.72] There is no breath in it. -[437.76 --> 440.70] But the Lord is in his holy temple. -[441.74 --> 445.62] Let all the earth be silent before him. -[446.62 --> 447.92] This is the word of the Lord. -[447.92 --> 459.64] A little while ago I was going out for a walk with my son Malachi. -[459.90 --> 462.40] We were playing at a park or something. -[462.48 --> 463.72] I don't exactly remember where. -[464.20 --> 467.66] And we came up to a place where the path split off. -[467.66 --> 471.64] And I knew that eventually the path joined up again. -[471.98 --> 476.88] Again on the other side of the bush or the forest or whatever that we were walking in. -[477.10 --> 480.20] And that it was really only like 30 feet away. -[480.34 --> 484.48] Yet you could not see the place from where we were where the paths joined together. -[485.32 --> 489.12] And so I said to Malachi, I said, Malachi, you go left and I'll go right. -[489.30 --> 490.46] And we'll see what happens. -[490.52 --> 491.24] And he looked at me. -[491.28 --> 492.28] You know, Malachi is only six. -[492.42 --> 494.48] And so rightly with a little bit of intimidation. -[494.48 --> 496.72] Like, are you sure, Dad? -[496.82 --> 497.94] This is kind of scary. -[498.02 --> 499.88] You're going to let me go off on my own? -[500.70 --> 501.50] And I said, it's okay. -[501.82 --> 502.90] I'll be nearby. -[503.06 --> 503.56] I'll find you. -[503.58 --> 506.76] And he was never really more than 10 or 20 feet away from me. -[507.40 --> 511.70] And if I looked really closely for his bright green stripe on his coat, I would be able to see him. -[512.38 --> 513.28] But off he went. -[514.00 --> 514.82] And off I went. -[515.78 --> 516.50] And he went. -[517.90 --> 522.34] And I walked to the other side of the path where they joined up together. -[522.34 --> 523.12] And I looked. -[523.30 --> 524.54] And I didn't see him. -[525.84 --> 532.00] I said, maybe I was wrong to let him do this. -[532.40 --> 533.30] And so I called his name. -[533.40 --> 535.12] I said, Malachi, what's going on? -[535.86 --> 538.76] And I heard a little voice off just around the bend. -[538.90 --> 539.62] I'm here, Dad. -[540.46 --> 541.88] And so I walked down the path. -[541.90 --> 542.88] And I went to check it out. -[542.88 --> 552.38] And there he was on the side of the road looking at some birds that had collected because somebody had left a pile of bird seed on the path. -[552.80 --> 559.86] And he had stopped and picked up the bird seed and was holding it in his hand, trying to get the birds to come like Disney princesses to eat out of his hand. -[561.00 --> 562.70] He got distracted along the way. -[562.88 --> 564.88] It took longer to get to where we were going. -[564.98 --> 566.36] But we ended up in the same spot. -[566.36 --> 575.02] And I share that story because it's kind of a parallel for what I want to do with this text. -[575.70 --> 579.58] So we're going to take two different avenues to get to the same place. -[580.16 --> 583.54] One of them is going to take a little bit longer to get there as we wrestle with it. -[584.16 --> 586.82] And then we'll come back and grab the other one. -[587.62 --> 592.28] Now to begin, like I say, I'm going to give you a little bit of a road map so that you know where we're going. -[592.28 --> 592.72] Right? -[593.68 --> 599.66] And that way, as we go, you'll see how these two separate paths come to the same place. -[599.68 --> 601.48] How the two parts fit the whole. -[602.50 --> 611.00] Now I believe that this chapter, this response of God to Habakkuk's complaint, is centered around one idea, one destination. -[611.56 --> 617.46] A come and coming reality of who God is and what God is doing in the world. -[617.46 --> 629.26] Now in short, I think chapter 2 helps us see that the goal of it all, the goal of everything, is the glory of God and then our experience of it. -[630.78 --> 641.14] And then in the text, what we will see is that God uses two avenues in his speech to get us to that one end goal. -[641.14 --> 647.84] And so that one avenue is a survey of the whole movements of all of history, right? -[647.92 --> 649.84] From beginning to new beginning. -[651.16 --> 665.02] And then that second avenue, the one that will take us a little bit longer, is a sort of comparison to what I'm calling an experience of lesser glories or misplaced glories. -[665.02 --> 675.02] Now for those of you who have been around church for a while, this experience of lesser glories or misplaced glories is what the Bible commonly calls idolatry. -[676.38 --> 682.08] And so the goal, the point, right, is the glory of God revealed and experienced. -[682.56 --> 691.72] And the ways that we're going to get there through this text is by seeing the sweeping movements of all of history and then by way of contrast with lesser glories. -[691.72 --> 695.98] And so let's start at the end, right? -[696.02 --> 699.90] Let's start with the goal, the glory of God revealed and experienced. -[700.68 --> 705.88] Now if you have your Bible in your hands, and of course you probably should, look at verse 14. -[707.20 --> 714.78] Now you can also see what we're about to say from verse 2 and verse 20, but we're going to start with verse 14 because it's the most clear. -[714.78 --> 726.98] And then I'm going to encourage you to come back to verse 2 and 20 in your personal devotions or your personal reflection this week so you can try to find it and trace it in the same way just for the sake of our time together this morning. -[727.74 --> 731.72] Now verse 14 should be familiar to many of you by now, right? -[731.76 --> 735.30] It's January's Bible memory verse from Emmanuel Kitts. -[735.74 --> 740.00] We go over it every week with the help of actions and kids from home, right? -[740.00 --> 746.18] For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as waters cover the sea. -[747.86 --> 750.58] Really, that's pretty straightforward, right? -[750.62 --> 752.02] The image is clear and helpful. -[752.66 --> 755.26] For the earth, that's here, right? -[755.34 --> 760.20] This place, us, everything will be filled. -[761.46 --> 762.34] Now notice the tense. -[762.74 --> 764.06] Will be filled, right? -[764.08 --> 766.00] That's a future reality. -[766.00 --> 771.36] That's something the people of Habakkuk's day could anticipate and long for. -[771.48 --> 780.90] Something that is particularly or partially fulfilled in Jesus come the first time round and so is already come in part. -[781.06 --> 787.90] And something that will ultimately then be fulfilled at the fullness of things or the restoration of all things. -[787.90 --> 796.24] So there's this already not yet, this come and coming aspect to this reality, but we'll come back to that in a moment. -[796.36 --> 797.34] So hang on to that. -[799.54 --> 805.18] For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord. -[805.18 --> 816.90] Now, in Hebrew, the root word translated knowledge isn't just knowing a list of information. -[818.28 --> 826.32] In Hebrew, the root of knowledge, to know, has a depth and an intimacy to it. -[826.32 --> 837.22] Perhaps this is a little bit PG-13, but in some places in the Bible it will say something like, Abraham knew Sarah and they had Isaac. -[838.48 --> 841.30] Y'all know what know means in that case? -[842.50 --> 842.76] Right? -[842.84 --> 845.92] There's an intimacy to that kind of knowledge. -[846.72 --> 846.86] Right? -[846.90 --> 852.22] There's an intimacy, a relational characteristic to knowing God. -[852.22 --> 853.10] Right? -[853.16 --> 855.78] There's something deep and special about it. -[856.06 --> 863.24] A knowledge of God, to know Him in the Bible is to have a relationship with Him, to have a covenant with Him. -[863.28 --> 876.12] Now, I get that that's a kind of fancy church word or maybe legal word, but a covenant is an intentional, purposed, directed, empowered relationship that affects and consumes everything we do. -[876.12 --> 884.44] And so, to be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord is more than just to know something. -[884.96 --> 886.78] It is experiencing it. -[886.86 --> 887.98] It is living it. -[888.06 --> 892.30] It is relating to it and relating to others by it. -[894.06 --> 897.20] Now, the glory of the Lord. -[897.42 --> 897.54] Right? -[897.58 --> 899.92] The knowledge of the glory of the Lord. -[899.92 --> 910.76] Now, a real simple way to get at what the glory of the Lord is, and I think this is from John Piper who probably himself got it from Jonathan Edwards before him. -[911.18 --> 917.88] But John Piper, I think it is, says, the glory of the Lord is the going public of God's holiness. -[919.18 --> 919.46] Right? -[919.48 --> 924.16] The glory of God is the public display of His holiness. -[924.58 --> 924.86] Right? -[924.86 --> 926.72] His perfection, His righteousness. -[927.28 --> 934.32] Yes, but holiness also means His otherness, His distinctness, His set-apartness. -[934.64 --> 934.80] Right? -[934.94 --> 944.88] Holiness for God and then for us down the line from Him as His people, as Christians living in the world, holiness isn't just a moral reality. -[945.96 --> 946.20] Right? -[946.20 --> 948.18] It is that, but it's also so much more. -[948.60 --> 952.64] Holiness for God and for us is an ontological reality. -[952.80 --> 953.86] It is an existential reality. -[953.86 --> 959.64] It is to have a relationship with God is to be set apart. -[960.38 --> 960.48] Right? -[960.50 --> 966.00] It is to be changed, to be transformed from death into life. -[966.34 --> 966.58] Right? -[966.60 --> 969.98] To be transformed from one degree of glory to another. -[970.88 --> 970.96] Right? -[971.34 --> 980.90] Holiness for us is to experience the glory of God in a way that changes who you are and what you do. -[980.90 --> 983.34] And that's the point. -[983.76 --> 987.04] That's the goal of all of this. -[987.10 --> 987.26] Right? -[987.32 --> 991.86] The whole earth, the whole world will be changed. -[994.36 --> 1000.52] For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea. -[1000.52 --> 1006.36] What's the difference between seas and water? -[1008.04 --> 1008.42] Right? -[1008.42 --> 1009.48] It's not a trick question. -[1009.60 --> 1011.98] It's not the salinity content or something like that. -[1012.22 --> 1012.44] Right? -[1012.48 --> 1014.04] What's the difference between seas and water? -[1014.74 --> 1015.84] There's no difference. -[1016.62 --> 1016.72] Right? -[1016.76 --> 1017.60] They're water. -[1018.00 --> 1018.74] That's the point. -[1018.98 --> 1020.64] The sea is water. -[1020.64 --> 1024.06] Wherever there is sea, there is water. -[1025.66 --> 1026.24] Right? -[1026.26 --> 1027.42] That's the goal of God. -[1027.84 --> 1033.86] That one day, wherever there is anywhere, there is the glory of God. -[1034.88 --> 1035.08] Right? -[1035.14 --> 1037.10] God's glory will be everywhere. -[1037.28 --> 1042.22] The experience of his going public holiness will be everywhere. -[1042.54 --> 1045.84] The purpose of his kingdom will be everywhere. -[1045.84 --> 1052.20] The knowledge of the Lord, a relationship to him and with him will be everywhere. -[1052.84 --> 1056.84] That's God's goal in creation, that he would be glorified. -[1057.68 --> 1064.72] That's what God does and why God does what he does, that he would get the glory. -[1065.18 --> 1065.32] Right? -[1065.36 --> 1067.72] That's why God said, let there be light. -[1067.86 --> 1073.32] That's why God says, you are the light of the world, for the revelation of his glory. -[1073.32 --> 1076.46] And here's the thing. -[1078.44 --> 1085.48] I know that this might offend some of you or be a surprise to some of you, but here's -[1085.48 --> 1086.56] the thing that comes out of this, right? -[1088.56 --> 1090.74] It's not about you. -[1092.46 --> 1097.18] The world, history, creation is not about you. -[1097.98 --> 1098.46] Right? -[1098.48 --> 1100.60] It's not centered around you. -[1100.60 --> 1103.26] It's not for your personal pleasure. -[1103.68 --> 1108.32] And yet in the culture that we live in, in the Western individualistic society that we -[1108.32 --> 1109.68] find ourselves in, right? -[1109.72 --> 1111.82] It's a culture of me and I. -[1111.98 --> 1116.14] And this idea that it's not about me might be a tough pill to swallow. -[1116.44 --> 1117.58] Because here it is, right? -[1117.76 --> 1122.10] Your life isn't even about you. -[1122.10 --> 1124.66] It's about God. -[1125.32 --> 1125.54] Right? -[1125.54 --> 1126.80] It's about his glory. -[1126.96 --> 1128.60] It's about the worship of his name. -[1128.70 --> 1133.46] It's about giving God his due as the only one worthy of praise. -[1133.88 --> 1140.92] History is about God's going public over the whole earth that we might experience him. -[1140.92 --> 1143.26] And that's the thing, right? -[1145.70 --> 1152.34] The God who does everything for his glory is for you. -[1153.66 --> 1157.42] It's not about you, but he's for you. -[1158.00 --> 1158.22] Right? -[1158.26 --> 1160.94] He longs for you to be found in him. -[1161.08 --> 1164.84] He has made you to be in a relationship with him. -[1164.84 --> 1170.74] And while it's not about you, when you make it all about him, that's when you actually -[1170.74 --> 1174.34] find your joy and purpose and meaning and power. -[1174.56 --> 1180.84] That's the open secret of the gospel, that when you die to self and live for Christ, that's -[1180.84 --> 1182.24] when you actually live. -[1185.26 --> 1192.16] Irenaeus was an early church apologist, and he has a quote that says, -[1192.16 --> 1196.42] The glory of God is the human being fully alive. -[1197.22 --> 1199.64] The glory of God is the human being fully alive. -[1199.76 --> 1201.80] And so, to help us understand that, just turn it around. -[1203.24 --> 1203.44] Right? -[1203.50 --> 1206.24] How do you live as a human being fully alive? -[1207.10 --> 1208.68] By living for the glory of God. -[1210.96 --> 1215.76] Again, I think it's Piper borrowing from Jonathan Edwards, but he says, -[1215.76 --> 1220.70] God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in him. -[1222.16 --> 1225.22] And that's ultimately what is the goal. -[1225.38 --> 1229.40] What is the point of that triangle, the place that we're going. -[1229.68 --> 1232.48] And that's getting us into this first side. -[1232.62 --> 1232.72] Right? -[1232.86 --> 1240.26] Habakkuk reveals that the goal of the glory of God to be experienced in this life and -[1240.26 --> 1244.20] throughout all the earth, he gets to that by way of a contrast. -[1244.82 --> 1247.86] A contrast with lesser glories. -[1247.86 --> 1254.42] Things that we have exchanged in our lives for that one good, glorious experience of who -[1254.42 --> 1259.48] God is and what God has done and in a relationship with him for something else. -[1259.84 --> 1265.58] Other things or other means or ideas that we put stock in or found purpose from. -[1265.58 --> 1275.44] The second part of the chapter, the Lord speaks what are called five woe statements. -[1275.98 --> 1276.14] Right? -[1276.22 --> 1278.76] You saw it as we read, beginning in verse 6. -[1279.22 --> 1279.40] Right? -[1279.52 --> 1280.58] Woe to him. -[1282.14 --> 1289.70] Now, what I want you to see is that each of these woe statements center around a way of -[1289.70 --> 1295.04] being in the world that is contrary to the goal that we have seen. -[1296.36 --> 1296.58] Right? -[1296.64 --> 1303.58] If the goal is God's glory and all of your life is about God's glory, not yours, anything -[1303.58 --> 1305.10] else is a cheap substitute. -[1305.28 --> 1310.20] Anything else is an experience of lesser glory or raising up a created thing in the place -[1310.20 --> 1312.84] of the creator or a good thing to an ultimate thing. -[1312.84 --> 1321.40] And unfortunately, and if you're honest with yourself, you'll see this in your life, and -[1321.40 --> 1327.98] I know it's true because I see it in mine when I'm honest with myself, we often prefer -[1327.98 --> 1333.94] the cheap substitute because it's quicker or it's easier or it's more close at hand. -[1334.06 --> 1335.04] It's more immediate. -[1335.94 --> 1336.50] Right? -[1336.50 --> 1343.22] We prefer the lesser glory because we have ultimately misplaced our meaning and our purpose -[1343.22 --> 1350.50] and rooted our life in ourselves rather than in Him who created life. -[1351.44 --> 1358.84] Quickly, look at me, look with me starting at verse 6 where Habakkuk has written, God has -[1358.84 --> 1365.18] spoken, woe to him who piles up stolen goods and makes himself wealthy by extortion. -[1365.18 --> 1369.18] Now, in a word, this is the trap of consumerism. -[1369.86 --> 1370.28] Right? -[1370.36 --> 1376.92] When you think that your heart and life will be satisfied by things, by more and more things, -[1377.22 --> 1383.64] and when you've bought into that lie, we will do almost anything to satisfy it. -[1384.50 --> 1388.86] Problem is, right, nothing ever actually satisfies it. -[1389.20 --> 1390.12] But do we learn? -[1391.22 --> 1391.50] Nope. -[1391.50 --> 1397.08] We just go back to the next thing or the next new, the new best, the new new. -[1398.26 --> 1404.54] And somehow, right, kind of insanely actually, we think that something will be different this -[1404.54 --> 1407.76] time with this thing or with this new. -[1409.24 --> 1414.98] But here's the really insidious part about this way of seeing and being in the world. -[1414.98 --> 1418.04] It never actually feels insane. -[1418.94 --> 1419.34] Right? -[1419.36 --> 1420.16] It just feels normal. -[1420.56 --> 1422.54] It feels that this is the way we're supposed to be. -[1422.64 --> 1424.20] This is how the world works. -[1424.38 --> 1425.76] It doesn't even feel wrong. -[1426.30 --> 1426.66] Right? -[1426.68 --> 1429.52] That this is just the way our hearts are wired. -[1430.36 --> 1431.36] Or so we think. -[1431.94 --> 1435.34] And so we keep coming back to it time and time again. -[1435.34 --> 1437.54] And God is saying, whoa! -[1439.70 --> 1444.10] Wake up to a greater reality of glory. -[1445.24 --> 1447.14] All right, next he goes to verse 9. -[1447.50 --> 1453.32] Woe to him who builds up his realm by unjust gain to set his nest on high to escape the clutches -[1453.32 --> 1454.04] of ruin. -[1455.70 --> 1462.92] Now again, we're rushing through this pretty quick, but this is a lesser glory of status -[1462.92 --> 1464.40] and position. -[1465.50 --> 1465.72] Right? -[1465.78 --> 1472.88] As if meaning and value on your life and in your life can finally be found when people -[1472.88 --> 1475.98] laud my prowess and accomplishments. -[1476.72 --> 1477.08] Right? -[1477.12 --> 1482.74] When we find satisfaction in the praise of others and security in our accomplishments. -[1484.86 --> 1485.92] Verse 12. -[1486.90 --> 1491.26] Woe to him who builds a city with bloodshed and establishes a town by crime. -[1491.26 --> 1495.10] All right, this is finding purpose in power. -[1495.52 --> 1495.62] Right? -[1495.68 --> 1500.58] And in small ways and big ways, this is a test for some of us. -[1501.06 --> 1501.18] Right? -[1501.22 --> 1505.26] How will we use the authority given us? -[1506.62 --> 1510.18] You're probably familiar with the quote from Lord Acton. -[1510.38 --> 1510.74] Right? -[1510.78 --> 1515.40] Who says that power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely. -[1516.34 --> 1516.76] Right? -[1516.76 --> 1520.66] There is a proper understanding of authority and power. -[1520.76 --> 1523.24] A proper submission to authority. -[1523.82 --> 1524.14] Right? -[1524.20 --> 1529.80] As citizens living here in Canada, we submit ourselves to the government and to law enforcement. -[1529.80 --> 1535.64] As church members, we submit ourselves to the spiritual authority of the elders over us. -[1535.64 --> 1539.98] As children, you submit yourselves to the authority of your parents. -[1539.98 --> 1542.18] Right? -[1545.54 --> 1547.50] But governments can overreach. -[1549.08 --> 1550.44] Pastors abuse power. -[1551.50 --> 1553.22] And parents exasperate their kids. -[1554.54 --> 1557.78] Authority is a tool, but we so easily make it a weapon. -[1557.78 --> 1567.56] That's the danger of exchanging a lesser glory for the real glory of who God is. -[1569.18 --> 1570.00] God continues. -[1570.16 --> 1573.44] Woe to him, verse 15, who gives drink to his neighbors. -[1574.44 --> 1580.66] Now, this one actually gets pretty graphic and is probably PG-13. -[1580.66 --> 1590.66] And so, if you want to have a discussion and look more closely at this, we can find another time to do that when it would be more appropriate and the people are listening in a more age-appropriate way. -[1590.72 --> 1595.08] But you can figure it out if you look closely at the words that are given there. -[1595.18 --> 1598.48] But ultimately, this is about taking advantage of people. -[1599.42 --> 1599.60] Right? -[1599.64 --> 1601.36] In the text, it's about doing that sexually. -[1601.70 --> 1604.06] But it's also, you know, more generally so. -[1604.06 --> 1605.00] Right? -[1605.06 --> 1611.04] This is when you think of other people more as a means than as an end. -[1611.48 --> 1611.70] Right? -[1611.74 --> 1614.86] Not an end in themselves distinct from your purposes. -[1616.08 --> 1621.12] Now, maybe you've heard or used the phrase before, I've got no use for him. -[1622.76 --> 1623.66] What does that mean? -[1624.54 --> 1627.30] That we've reduced people to tools for our purposes. -[1628.42 --> 1631.64] And when they lose function, we lose them. -[1631.64 --> 1634.10] Right? -[1634.12 --> 1639.18] And this is an example, ultimately, of how we substitute a lesser glory for the greater glory. -[1639.18 --> 1653.52] Because what we are actually saying in that moment by doing that or by thinking that or by treating other people that way is that we think of ourselves and the sort of behavior that comes from that as more important or as ultimate. -[1653.52 --> 1653.74] Right? -[1653.80 --> 1661.02] The worldview behind this way of thinking and being in the world is that it's all for my good, for my pleasure. -[1661.02 --> 1663.50] It's all about my purposes and my glory. -[1663.86 --> 1666.02] You are here to serve me. -[1667.18 --> 1674.96] Now, if you know the words of Jesus, he says, I did not come to be served, but to serve. -[1675.78 --> 1679.40] You know that that's not the proper way of understanding our relationship to people. -[1679.40 --> 1680.80] And yet we do it. -[1682.64 --> 1685.78] Because properly understood, it's not about you. -[1685.78 --> 1698.28] We've seen how we've exchanged lesser evils for the glory of God as the greatest, exchanged lesser glories for the greatest glory. -[1698.50 --> 1700.80] And now, finally, the other side of the triangle. -[1701.74 --> 1707.92] And coming back to my story with Malachi, this is the quick way around, so we're not going to spend as much time as we just did on there. -[1707.92 --> 1712.34] But again, in your own study and devotion, I really do think you can dig into this. -[1713.96 --> 1715.96] Look at verse 19. -[1718.36 --> 1721.16] The final woe. -[1722.60 --> 1726.92] Woe to him who says to wood, come to life. -[1726.98 --> 1729.56] Or to the lifeless stone, wake up. -[1730.10 --> 1731.10] Can it give guidance? -[1731.20 --> 1733.36] It's covered with gold and silver. -[1733.36 --> 1740.36] But verse 19 makes explicit what has been behind all the other woe statements, right? -[1740.42 --> 1747.24] That all of these raising up of lesser glories is simply idolatry. -[1748.40 --> 1750.98] And the question of verse 18 is helpful. -[1751.60 --> 1754.02] What value is an idol since man has carved it? -[1754.40 --> 1756.28] Or an image that teaches lies? -[1756.98 --> 1759.44] For he who makes it trusts his own creation. -[1761.18 --> 1763.02] He makes idols that cannot speak. -[1763.36 --> 1772.96] Ultimately, when we exchange the lesser glories, or exchange the greater glory of who God is for these lesser glories, -[1773.16 --> 1778.32] we are taking something of our own creation and putting it in the place of God. -[1778.42 --> 1780.86] He wants us to see that. -[1783.08 --> 1789.06] Instead of lesser glories, God wants you to see that his glory is the singular purpose for life. -[1789.06 --> 1794.12] That chasing lesser glories just leads to a listless wandering. -[1795.42 --> 1799.34] God wants you to experience the lavish wonder of his glory. -[1799.34 --> 1802.22] And that's where all this is going. -[1802.22 --> 1803.62] And he ensures it. -[1804.14 --> 1812.38] The other side of the triangle is the sea, the sweeping movements of history that get us to the goal of verse 14, -[1812.52 --> 1817.94] where the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea. -[1817.94 --> 1820.68] Look at verse 3. -[1820.68 --> 1824.80] For the revelation awaits an appointed time. -[1825.38 --> 1828.28] It speaks of the end and will not prove false. -[1828.64 --> 1831.12] Though it linger, wait for it. -[1831.20 --> 1836.38] It will certainly come and will not delay. -[1836.38 --> 1845.38] The promise of God, the reality of God at work in the world, is that from the very beginning, -[1846.32 --> 1848.84] before God said, let there be light, -[1850.02 --> 1854.84] God was longing for you to know the glory of who he is. -[1855.58 --> 1858.70] And the purpose behind God saying, let there be light, -[1858.76 --> 1861.74] and creating the world that we see and know and live in, -[1861.90 --> 1863.54] it was for the glory of his name. -[1863.54 --> 1867.30] And he ensures that it will get there. -[1868.06 --> 1869.80] He created for his glory, -[1870.02 --> 1875.70] and he created you and me, men and women, human beings in his image, -[1875.72 --> 1878.44] that we might reflect his glory, -[1878.58 --> 1881.66] that we might reflect something of who he is to the world. -[1881.78 --> 1886.88] And yet, even then, our first parents chose something other. -[1886.88 --> 1890.40] Even then, our first parents exchanged the relationship, -[1890.40 --> 1893.54] the covenant with God for something else. -[1893.70 --> 1895.70] They believed a lie. -[1897.14 --> 1898.84] They rebelled against God. -[1899.76 --> 1903.58] And in that rebellion, not just did we become sinful, -[1903.76 --> 1907.86] but shalom, wholeness, peace on earth was broken, -[1908.12 --> 1914.68] and now all creation suffers as a consequence of the weight and reality of our sin. -[1914.68 --> 1921.48] And day in and day out, we live and affirm that we would have done exactly the same in that same moment. -[1922.52 --> 1925.84] That apart from God redeeming us, -[1926.84 --> 1930.26] we would still be lost in sin. -[1930.26 --> 1933.36] But God gave a promise. -[1934.46 --> 1936.22] He spoke a promise in the garden. -[1936.38 --> 1940.42] He focused that promise in the person of Abraham and in the people of Israel, -[1940.42 --> 1944.64] and through them revealed exactly what he would do -[1944.64 --> 1947.26] and what it would take to call people back to himself, -[1947.52 --> 1952.06] exactly what it would do to gather his people for the glory of his name. -[1952.64 --> 1956.36] And in the temple and in sacrifice and in the wilderness period -[1956.36 --> 1961.18] and in the kingship and the priestly order and in the entire history and existence -[1961.18 --> 1964.56] and scope of Israel's movement through the drama of redemption, -[1964.92 --> 1968.02] coming into the land, being taken out of the land and coming back into it, -[1968.24 --> 1974.36] we begin to see God revealing for us the one who would come as the true Israel, -[1975.16 --> 1978.14] the one who would come as the perfect son of God, -[1978.20 --> 1980.24] who would live the life we should have lived -[1980.24 --> 1982.94] and who would die the death that we deserve because of sin. -[1982.94 --> 1987.70] We see what God would do to guarantee that he would be glorified. -[1991.38 --> 1997.52] As he takes victory over sin and defeats death, -[1998.46 --> 2000.36] the resurrection of Jesus. -[2001.78 --> 2007.24] And this same Jesus comes into this world and has come down -[2007.24 --> 2009.34] and has ascended to the right hand of the Father -[2009.34 --> 2012.24] and sits now as king over all creation -[2012.24 --> 2017.38] to the glory of God the Father, says Philippians 2. -[2018.28 --> 2023.30] The purpose and the big movements and sweeps of history and redemption -[2023.30 --> 2029.68] comes to Christ and then flows from him now in and through the church. -[2030.82 --> 2031.08] Right? -[2031.16 --> 2033.94] Jesus, the light of the world, comes, says to you, -[2034.06 --> 2035.40] you are the light of the world. -[2035.40 --> 2040.20] The revelation of God's glory culminating in Jesus Christ now is through us, -[2040.20 --> 2043.76] the church, as his gathered, called and sent out people, -[2043.94 --> 2046.76] that we might be transformed into the image of his son, -[2046.82 --> 2050.80] that we might be the place now where the world sees God. -[2051.18 --> 2056.70] All of this, the scope of history moving towards that one day -[2056.70 --> 2058.40] where Jesus himself would return, -[2058.86 --> 2061.76] the sound of the trumpet with the archangels, -[2061.76 --> 2065.06] with the glory train of all the saints who have gone before him, -[2065.10 --> 2067.40] that he would come down to this earth -[2067.40 --> 2071.50] and that here, on this good earth, -[2071.72 --> 2073.28] restored and renewed, -[2073.76 --> 2076.48] the kingdom would be established forever. -[2076.70 --> 2078.80] That the new Jerusalem would come -[2078.80 --> 2080.16] and there would be no temple -[2080.16 --> 2085.26] because the dwelling place of God is now with man. -[2085.26 --> 2089.06] That the glory of God is now with man. -[2089.06 --> 2090.60] That the glory of God is now with man. -[2090.60 --> 2092.60] That the glory of God is now with man. -[2092.60 --> 2096.86] For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord -[2096.86 --> 2100.24] as the waters cover the sea. -[2102.40 --> 2103.74] That's where it's going. -[2105.02 --> 2110.76] Don't exchange the greater glory of who God is for a lesser glory. -[2110.76 --> 2116.28] Instead, experience here and now already what it might be like -[2116.28 --> 2120.64] to know him, to serve him and love him in that way. -[2122.68 --> 2124.00] Finally, and we'll land here, -[2125.76 --> 2128.96] the end of verse 3 says, -[2129.10 --> 2132.20] though it linger, wait for it. -[2132.20 --> 2135.34] It can be hard to wait. -[2137.80 --> 2141.32] And it might seem like it's taken God a long time to do something. -[2142.50 --> 2146.76] It might seem like the drama of redemption has slowed down -[2146.76 --> 2149.10] and that there are times and circumstances and situations -[2149.10 --> 2153.20] that provide direct challenge to the rule of God in this world, -[2153.28 --> 2156.34] that provide direct challenge to the goal of it all. -[2156.34 --> 2161.48] As other glories or other challenges to his rule come in, -[2161.52 --> 2163.10] be it the problem of evil, -[2163.62 --> 2166.30] be it nations warring against nations, -[2166.48 --> 2169.28] be it injustice globally or locally. -[2169.60 --> 2171.70] Though it linger, wait for it, -[2171.80 --> 2175.00] because his promise is sure. -[2176.00 --> 2179.26] You can stake your life on that. -[2179.26 --> 2184.50] But, verse 4, God says, -[2184.64 --> 2188.46] the righteous will live by faith. -[2190.24 --> 2193.00] It takes faith to live in this world. -[2194.60 --> 2197.82] My prayer is that your faith -[2197.82 --> 2202.22] will be in the one who created this world. -[2203.30 --> 2204.78] And that as you live for him, -[2205.26 --> 2207.88] as you are set apart for his purposes, -[2207.88 --> 2212.38] as you see and experience the glory of God -[2212.38 --> 2215.22] made manifest in you and through you, -[2215.84 --> 2218.44] that your faith will not only be strengthened, -[2219.36 --> 2223.00] but your heart's affections for Jesus will be stirred, -[2223.90 --> 2225.72] and that you will be empowered -[2225.72 --> 2228.64] and emboldened from now on -[2228.64 --> 2230.94] to live for him. -[2232.08 --> 2232.42] Amen? -[2233.42 --> 2234.00] Amen. -[2234.34 --> 2235.04] Let's pray together. -[2237.88 --> 2245.02] Lord our God, -[2245.94 --> 2249.84] turn our listless wandering -[2249.84 --> 2251.66] into lavish wonder. -[2254.38 --> 2256.26] Open our eyes to the ways -[2256.26 --> 2258.64] that we have settled for lesser glories -[2258.64 --> 2261.02] and captivate our hearts today -[2261.02 --> 2264.32] with the majesty of your greatest glory, -[2264.32 --> 2265.68] of who you are, -[2266.04 --> 2267.16] what you have done, -[2267.24 --> 2268.88] and what you are doing in this world, -[2268.96 --> 2270.32] and where you are guiding -[2270.32 --> 2272.00] all the movements of history. -[2273.14 --> 2276.12] Cause us to long for that day. -[2276.98 --> 2279.40] Come quickly, Lord Jesus, we pray. -[2281.16 --> 2282.06] Come quickly. -[2283.28 --> 2283.60] Amen. -[2283.60 --> 2283.70] Amen. -[2284.76 --> 2285.56] Amen. -[2285.56 --> 2285.62] Amen. -[2286.28 --> 2287.56] Amen. -[2287.56 --> 2288.06] Amen. -[2288.06 --> 2288.56] Amen. -[2288.56 --> 2289.56] Amen. -[2289.56 --> 2290.56] Amen. -[2290.56 --> 2291.56] Amen. -[2291.56 --> 2292.56] Amen. -[2292.56 --> 2293.56] Amen. -[2293.56 --> 2293.62] Amen. -[2293.62 --> 2293.64] Amen. -[2293.64 --> 2293.66] Amen. -[2293.66 --> 2293.68] Amen. -[2293.68 --> 2293.72] Amen. -[2293.72 --> 2294.30] Amen. diff --git a/Make it Real (Sermon)_summary.txt b/Make it Real (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index faba1aea940fa3b277d91ec918057cbec49ca1e0..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Make it Real (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,45 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction to a new teaching series through the book of James -• Reading and understanding the letter of James -• Overview of the first eight verses of James, including considerations for trials and seeking wisdom -• Personal story of the speaker's past faith experience and struggle with hypocrisy -• The difference between intellectual understanding and true change in one's life -• Acknowledgement of a quote by Brennan Manning on hypocrisy in Christianity -• Studies on youth/young people leaving church/faith show a common theme: their parents' faith didn't make a difference in daily life. -• Faith not changing anything about one's life makes it hard for others to adopt the same faith. -• Anecdotal evidence from atheists and non-believers highlights hypocrisy in Christian lives. -• The letter of James aims to help believers make their faith real, more than just ideas or propositions. -• James writes to Jewish Christians scattered among nations. -• Palestine and the Jewish community -• Pressure to conform to old ways and Roman culture -• Ostracism, rejection, and persecution from communities and families -• The allure of worldly promises vs. God's promise of resurrection reality -• James' concern for believers to stop compromising with worldly values -• The path towards spiritual wholeness and the importance of perseverance -• The importance of perseverance in overcoming hardships and trials -• Maturity and completion come from testing one's faith and persevering through failures -• The purpose for which we were created is revealed through enduring trials and perseverance -• Wholeness and completeness are achieved by being restored to our original design as children of God -• Living a Christian life means being pulled between the gospel and the world, and making choices that reflect our commitment to faith and godliness -• Faithfulness is demonstrated by being both hearers and doers of the word -• The speaker discusses making faith "real" by hearing God's word and living it out -• Challenges of making faith real, including being ostracized or persecuted for following a moral code -• Holiness is not about giving up things we enjoy, but about embracing the good news of living as designed by God -• Faith is joyful even in trials and challenges -• James' letter applies this idea throughout its content -• Making something real will address what it means to be wise -• The importance of humility in life versus pride -• Enduring suffering as part of the process of making something real -• The role of prayer and God's work in the world -• The idea that God is real, Jesus is real, and he changes everything about a person's life -• A quote from Jaquel Crow's book "This Changes Everything" highlighting how Jesus changes people 100% -• Living a real life and making difficult choices -• The impact of one's actions on others -• Wrestling with what it means to be a follower of Jesus -• Conviction, change, and living a compelling life -• Grace, faith, and adoption as a son or daughter of God -• Receiving perfect righteousness and being declared holy -• Living a life that is real and authentic -• Overcoming obstacles and criticism from others -• Making faith real through actions, not just words -• Being drawn to God's presence and majesty in one's life -• Praying for relationships with others to be transformed by God's love and gospel \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Make it Real (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/Make it Real (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 9099bb3823524629ac505171508e578b329ef071..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Make it Real (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,824 +0,0 @@ -[1.00 --> 8.50] This morning we are going to start a new teaching series here through the letter of James. -[9.06 --> 13.34] I'm going to encourage you to have a Bible with you so that we can read through that. -[13.60 --> 18.74] You can spend time throughout the week reading through the letter, familiarizing yourself with it, -[18.76 --> 27.48] that we can come into this, into our gathered worship on Sundays and dig deeply into what God has to say to us. -[27.48 --> 34.38] I'm going to read from the first eight verses of James, so I invite you to find that. -[34.48 --> 35.90] James is near the end of your Bible. -[36.88 --> 41.02] If you open up to the back and then flip a few pages the other way, you will find James eventually. -[41.88 --> 44.66] And it will also be on the screen there, as you can see. -[45.24 --> 47.82] So, from James 1, let me read with you. -[49.28 --> 56.56] James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes scattered among the nations, -[56.56 --> 57.68] Greetings. -[59.38 --> 64.48] Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, -[64.80 --> 68.92] because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. -[70.52 --> 76.86] Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. -[76.86 --> 85.38] If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, -[85.66 --> 86.94] and it will be given to him. -[87.80 --> 90.34] But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, -[90.62 --> 94.74] because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea blown and tossed by the wind. -[95.38 --> 98.34] That man should not think that he will receive anything from the Lord. -[98.60 --> 102.70] He is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does. -[102.70 --> 104.54] This is the word of the Lord. -[104.54 --> 114.32] I want to begin this morning with a little, maybe it's a personal story, -[114.54 --> 119.08] maybe it's too personal for you, and I apologize if that is the case, -[119.18 --> 122.36] and I'm happy to receive your emails and phone calls as a result. -[122.86 --> 127.50] But some of you have heard my faith story, or part of my faith story, -[127.58 --> 130.08] some of you haven't heard part of that yet. -[130.08 --> 134.90] And I'm going to change a little bit of that this morning, at least part of it. -[135.80 --> 145.12] So when I was 18 or 19 in my early 20s, to be honest, I was not a Christian. -[146.56 --> 149.52] And don't get me wrong, I went to church every Sunday. -[150.08 --> 151.66] I knew all the right words. -[152.00 --> 156.62] I could answer the pastors of my church appropriately whenever they asked me any questions. -[156.62 --> 164.72] But more often than not, I was out getting high, was partying on the weekends, -[164.98 --> 171.42] I was drinking and getting drunk and taking advantage of people and situations and circumstances, -[171.70 --> 178.12] and generally not caring much about anything more than my own pursuit of hedonistic pleasure. -[178.12 --> 185.06] Now to put it simply, in my life, I was a functional atheist. -[186.06 --> 186.66] Right? -[186.70 --> 191.96] I used the words of Christianity, and I might even say that I believed it, -[192.76 --> 196.00] but it didn't change anything about the way I lived my life. -[196.68 --> 197.02] Right? -[197.06 --> 201.48] My functioning in the world was as if God didn't really exist, -[201.48 --> 205.40] and that his redemption held no claim over me, -[205.52 --> 208.70] and that his lordship didn't matter to any part of my life. -[210.40 --> 215.16] And even when I engaged the claims of faith, -[215.82 --> 220.42] it was from the perspective of how much can I get away with? -[221.52 --> 221.96] Right? -[222.04 --> 225.72] Or to put it another way, and you know, I know teenagers love to ask this question, -[225.88 --> 227.60] but so do all of us as Christians. -[227.60 --> 230.74] And I wondered, how far is too far? -[232.38 --> 232.84] Right? -[232.86 --> 237.50] And I had a soft moralism on those sort of big issues like abortion, -[238.10 --> 241.92] but really, that was easy, because it didn't affect me personally. -[242.58 --> 242.80] Right? -[242.82 --> 246.52] And I wouldn't work on Sundays, but that wasn't about Sabbath rest. -[246.86 --> 249.40] That was about me keeping my parents off my back, -[249.54 --> 252.44] and having a day that I was guaranteed to not have to work. -[254.58 --> 257.22] I went through the motions of faith. -[258.32 --> 258.48] Right? -[258.60 --> 265.54] Christian school, cadets, church, youth group, catechism, even profession of faith. -[265.90 --> 269.64] And yeah, I'm sure that in my mind, at least at times, -[269.68 --> 272.74] I really believed what I was saying, right, on an intellectual level. -[272.74 --> 275.42] But my beliefs didn't change me. -[276.32 --> 280.82] And it didn't change the way I lived, or the way I talked, or the way I acted. -[280.82 --> 288.94] To paraphrase a really famous quote from Brennan Manning, right? -[288.94 --> 296.96] I was the Christian who acknowledged Jesus with my lips, left, and denied him with my lifestyle. -[298.38 --> 299.76] Have you heard that quote before? -[299.76 --> 307.42] Actually, in the 90s, on a DC Talk album, it was part of one of the songs at the beginning. -[307.58 --> 309.36] That was where I was first exposed to it. -[309.36 --> 314.60] But it never hit me until years later, in my 20s. -[315.42 --> 316.80] A quote from Brennan Manning says, -[316.80 --> 330.00] And I get it now, right? -[330.00 --> 336.32] I know enough about the Bible and about human condition, about the religious impulse, about epistemology and spirituality. -[337.20 --> 341.84] I know enough about philosophy and non-contradictory logical statements -[341.84 --> 346.66] to know that this statement from Brennan Manning isn't absolutely or comprehensively true. -[346.96 --> 351.58] It's not an adequate explanation of sin and the realities of sin. -[351.72 --> 357.56] I know that there's a difference between a causal link and saying where there really is only a correlation. -[357.56 --> 359.28] I know all of that. -[360.32 --> 371.26] But still, my heart breaks when I think about how I may have been a stumbling block. -[372.26 --> 379.78] When I think about how my actions or inactions might have impacted the people that I knew back then in my life -[379.78 --> 383.14] and led them away from experiencing Jesus. -[383.14 --> 397.14] When I think about how the impact of my life and decisions may have influenced my brothers -[397.14 --> 406.76] and how they encounter faith and the lack or the lack of their faith. -[406.76 --> 409.88] And I wrestle with that. -[410.52 --> 411.48] And I carry that. -[413.16 --> 414.10] And that's hard. -[420.58 --> 432.22] In 2011, there was a study that was done by a group of psychologists and sociologists in Canada -[432.22 --> 436.08] of Canadian Christian young people. -[436.44 --> 439.40] And that was published under the title of Hemorrhaging Faith. -[440.60 --> 444.52] In 2018, there was a follow-up study to that that was done by the same people. -[444.58 --> 446.84] And that was published under the title of Renegotiating Faith. -[447.80 --> 451.64] In the U.S., for the last number of years, a couple decades even, -[451.90 --> 454.20] the Barna Group has done a similar study. -[454.20 --> 461.14] And David Kinnaman has published the results in a series of books called Un-Christian and You Lost Me and the like. -[461.92 --> 467.64] And in all of those studies, there is a common theme that works its way right through. -[468.58 --> 471.66] Now, these studies focus on youth and young people. -[471.82 --> 474.22] And so it's given from their perspective. -[474.84 --> 477.00] But I think we'll be able to see how much it matters. -[477.00 --> 484.62] In the shifting of faith commitments and the realities of youth and young people leaving the church -[484.62 --> 486.40] and the faith that they grew up in, -[486.54 --> 490.20] there is a common theme that runs through all of the survey answers. -[490.94 --> 494.14] For so many of these people, when they were interviewed and asked about it, -[494.34 --> 498.56] when they looked at the faith, when they looked at church, right, -[498.56 --> 502.08] and that is the experience of their parents and their peers, -[502.32 --> 504.84] it didn't make a difference. -[507.00 --> 513.22] Overwhelmingly, they would say their parents looked exactly the same as their non-Christian friends' parents. -[514.14 --> 514.56] Right? -[514.60 --> 515.64] They did the same things. -[515.76 --> 516.76] They talked the same way. -[516.86 --> 518.36] They complained about the same things. -[518.46 --> 521.88] They worked and they lived and they pursued after the same things. -[522.72 --> 524.56] And the thinking here is this, right? -[524.60 --> 528.42] That if your faith doesn't really change anything about you, -[528.42 --> 532.08] why should I change anything about me to say I have that faith? -[533.44 --> 534.72] And let's be honest. -[534.98 --> 536.78] That's a really good question. -[537.00 --> 543.70] In fact, that kind of thinking, a few years ago, -[544.42 --> 549.78] at the peak of the sort of new atheist movement that was sort of in vogue for a little while, -[550.48 --> 554.58] one of the four horsemen of the new atheist movement, Christopher Hitchens, -[554.76 --> 556.86] he wrote a book called God is Not Great, -[556.86 --> 561.86] and it was an argument against religious belief generally and Christianity in particular. -[561.86 --> 572.58] And his main argument over and over and over and over again throughout that book is anecdotal stories of people who call themselves Christian or people who call themselves religious, -[572.58 --> 575.06] but brought hurt and pain into the world. -[575.06 --> 586.42] If our faith doesn't change anything in our lives, why do we expect people to change anything in their lives to believe the same? -[587.62 --> 593.82] And if your faith isn't making a difference beyond what you do on Sunday morning or what school you go to, -[593.82 --> 598.20] is that really a compelling faith? -[599.90 --> 601.82] Think about it with me. -[601.82 --> 605.82] If your life looks the same as your neighbor who doesn't believe. -[607.22 --> 609.00] Or let's get real focused for a moment. -[609.32 --> 615.30] If you are more excited about the Super Bowl today than you've ever been about Jesus, -[615.30 --> 619.26] what compelling reason are you giving for people to believe the same as you? -[621.22 --> 627.76] And I know that some of us listening this morning are like me when I was 18 and 19 years old. -[627.86 --> 630.34] We are functional atheists. -[631.32 --> 637.32] And I know some of us are yet unconvicted by the gospel, and so we live uncompelling lives. -[637.48 --> 642.52] And I know that some of us are just new to faith, or we're new to taking faith seriously, -[642.52 --> 645.78] and so we're learning what maturity looks like, right? -[645.82 --> 651.46] Some of us have never really been challenged to reflect on life and faith in this way. -[651.46 --> 661.74] And some of us, probably most of us, have felt this niggling thing in the back of your mind or in the corner of your heart -[661.74 --> 664.66] that is God whispering, saying, enough is enough. -[664.90 --> 666.30] I want more for you. -[667.58 --> 669.74] Make it real with me. -[669.74 --> 672.00] Make it real. -[673.28 --> 677.28] That's our goal in this series in the letter of James. -[678.00 --> 680.86] That's James' goal in writing this letter, right? -[680.88 --> 685.48] That the early believers would make their faith real, -[685.52 --> 689.68] that it would be more than just a set of ideas or propositions that they would assent to. -[690.68 --> 694.46] Now this morning, we're going to sort of do a quick introduction to this new series -[694.46 --> 696.90] that we're going to spend our time in. -[696.90 --> 700.06] Now, the letter begins, -[700.50 --> 704.26] James, he identifies himself a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, -[704.32 --> 705.98] and then he tells us who he's writing to. -[706.28 --> 710.26] And he's writing to the twelve tribes scattered among the nations. -[710.38 --> 711.84] Now, without getting too deeply into it, -[711.86 --> 716.98] there's a lot of discussion in biblical studies about who that might be. -[717.28 --> 720.16] The general consensus is, and where I tend to agree, -[720.16 --> 725.86] is that James is writing to a group of Jewish Christians -[725.86 --> 730.08] who are scattered throughout the region outside of Palestine. -[731.02 --> 731.34] Right? -[731.40 --> 732.62] Their faith is young. -[732.84 --> 737.08] And this letter is intended to be a circulating letter, -[737.14 --> 738.66] or sometimes it's called a Catholic letter, -[738.72 --> 740.90] that it goes out to a wide group of people -[740.90 --> 746.74] to encourage them in their faith and in the living of life for Jesus. -[746.74 --> 749.46] And so because their faith is young, -[750.10 --> 756.38] they are facing pressure from fellow Jews to return to the old ways. -[756.72 --> 756.84] Right? -[756.90 --> 762.42] They're facing pressures from the Roman world to adapt and to compromise their beliefs. -[762.94 --> 763.04] Right? -[763.04 --> 767.22] And in that, facing pressure from the old ways -[767.22 --> 769.82] and facing pressure in the Roman world, -[769.96 --> 773.66] they're being ostracized or looked down upon -[773.66 --> 779.02] or rejected or outcast from their communities, -[779.46 --> 781.68] whether it's in the guilds that they work in -[781.68 --> 783.28] or even from their families. -[784.74 --> 784.92] Right? -[784.96 --> 788.52] In some cases, they're even being violently persecuted, -[789.36 --> 790.18] maybe even killed. -[790.18 --> 796.68] We can summarize and say that the social pressures to conform are powerful. -[797.48 --> 802.96] The religious pressures to compromise give an easy believism. -[803.68 --> 808.04] And the culture is holding out a vision of life and happiness and blessing -[808.04 --> 813.16] that is so tantalizing and so clearly visible right in front of their faces, -[813.16 --> 815.78] it feels like they could actually grab hold of it. -[815.78 --> 819.50] And when we put the context that way, -[820.44 --> 823.80] it sounds remarkably like our time. -[824.98 --> 827.44] Remarkably like what we face. -[828.68 --> 830.28] Stop being intolerant. -[831.64 --> 832.90] Don't be a prude. -[834.02 --> 835.66] You have to try this. -[835.72 --> 837.30] It's so good. -[837.30 --> 842.38] And it's so easy to slip into that, -[842.46 --> 843.56] to buy into that, -[843.62 --> 845.26] to shift our priorities, -[845.46 --> 848.40] to give ourselves over in that. -[848.64 --> 850.76] And James is coming in this letter -[850.76 --> 853.00] and throughout, hopefully, our teaching series, -[853.08 --> 853.80] and he says, -[854.04 --> 854.86] make it real. -[855.52 --> 859.14] Jesus' voice is speaking to us in this moment, -[859.14 --> 859.92] and he is saying, -[860.04 --> 862.66] I have so much more for you. -[862.66 --> 866.80] So here's the thing. -[868.72 --> 872.38] The world holds out a promise to you, -[872.68 --> 878.24] but it takes away with the left hand what it's giving with the right. -[879.20 --> 885.24] The gospel holds out a better reality for us, -[885.24 --> 889.62] a resurrection reality, a real reality. -[889.62 --> 895.76] And that's where we need to find ourselves this morning. -[899.14 --> 903.58] One scholar that I read this week put it this way, -[903.66 --> 907.62] said that the letter of James ultimately has more to say -[907.62 --> 911.22] about the problem of the world getting into the church. -[911.38 --> 912.94] That James' concern is, -[912.96 --> 913.72] and I'll quote him here, -[913.80 --> 914.02] he says, -[914.02 --> 915.18] his readers, -[916.28 --> 919.36] James is concerned that his readers stop compromising -[919.36 --> 921.44] with worldly values and behavior -[921.44 --> 924.96] and give themselves wholly to the Lord. -[926.52 --> 929.42] What James wants for us -[929.42 --> 933.48] is a spiritual wholeness. -[934.50 --> 935.26] And in many ways, -[935.26 --> 937.12] in these first few verses, -[938.02 --> 939.44] he outlines for us -[939.44 --> 942.30] the path towards wholeness. -[942.30 --> 944.02] And in that journey, -[944.02 --> 948.06] says there will be hardships and trials along the way. -[948.36 --> 949.48] If you have that in front of you, -[949.50 --> 950.22] you can see it. -[951.32 --> 953.74] Verses two through four -[953.74 --> 956.06] kind of take us along this way. -[956.14 --> 958.96] But you have this introduction or this word, -[959.12 --> 960.36] consider it pure joy, -[960.44 --> 961.30] my brothers and sisters, -[961.40 --> 964.14] whenever you face trials of many kinds. -[964.18 --> 966.76] And we've outlined what some of those might have been. -[966.82 --> 969.12] Not just violence or persecution, -[969.12 --> 970.98] but the way that they have been ostracized, -[971.06 --> 973.48] the way that they have been rejected -[973.48 --> 975.96] by their communities or families of origin, -[976.18 --> 978.22] the way that they have been tempted -[978.22 --> 980.58] to compromise their faith and belief -[980.58 --> 982.80] in the culture that is around them. -[983.42 --> 985.70] And that trials of many kinds -[985.70 --> 987.22] is linked directly, -[987.22 --> 988.30] in verse three, -[988.46 --> 991.76] with the testing of your faith. -[992.14 --> 993.22] And these are challenges -[993.22 --> 995.08] to what you say you believe. -[995.08 --> 997.82] What you say is really important. -[998.68 --> 999.90] What you say really matters. -[1000.82 --> 1001.86] And facing these trials, -[1002.04 --> 1003.68] enduring these testing, -[1003.94 --> 1006.88] is given so that you might persevere, -[1007.06 --> 1009.88] so that you might develop perseverance. -[1010.78 --> 1012.90] And just like when you're learning -[1012.90 --> 1014.46] to be a long distance runner, -[1014.60 --> 1016.40] you've got to push through the hardship, -[1016.60 --> 1017.98] push through the trials. -[1018.14 --> 1020.46] Just like when you're learning how to do anything, -[1020.60 --> 1021.72] learning any new skill, -[1021.78 --> 1023.26] you've got to push through the failures. -[1023.26 --> 1025.44] You have to practice and practice and practice. -[1025.72 --> 1026.88] And even when you fail, -[1026.94 --> 1029.14] you have to get back up and try again. -[1029.76 --> 1033.08] Your testing of your faith develops perseverance. -[1034.96 --> 1036.00] And perseverance, -[1036.32 --> 1039.40] when you push through to the end, -[1040.20 --> 1042.10] must finish its work in you -[1042.10 --> 1046.14] so that you may be mature and complete. -[1046.14 --> 1052.68] This is a beautiful expression in the Greek here -[1052.68 --> 1057.28] that is more than just maturity -[1057.28 --> 1059.92] in the sense of growing old -[1059.92 --> 1063.18] and becoming who you are. -[1063.42 --> 1064.30] There's a sense, -[1064.44 --> 1066.80] the word there actually is the same word -[1066.80 --> 1069.44] from which we get the word telos or end. -[1069.90 --> 1073.28] This is the purpose for which you have been created, -[1073.28 --> 1076.26] the purpose for which you have been redeemed. -[1076.74 --> 1078.16] And so you face these trials -[1078.16 --> 1080.60] and you endure and persevere in testing -[1080.60 --> 1085.48] so that you might find your very purpose for existence. -[1086.74 --> 1088.80] And then you might be mature, -[1089.02 --> 1092.50] have purpose and fullness and complete. -[1093.06 --> 1095.98] And that word complete there is really about wholeness. -[1096.06 --> 1097.74] It's about having the whole lot, -[1097.96 --> 1099.38] literally in Greek. -[1099.38 --> 1103.46] that God has all of this in store for you. -[1103.58 --> 1107.96] This restoration to who you were designed and created to be, -[1108.08 --> 1111.38] this restoration to who you are as a child of God, -[1111.48 --> 1113.24] adopted as sons and daughters, -[1113.44 --> 1115.14] heirs and co-heirs with Christ. -[1115.40 --> 1119.90] This is God's will for you. -[1121.66 --> 1125.10] And it's restored to perfect fellowship -[1125.10 --> 1127.84] and relationship with him. -[1129.38 --> 1131.30] This is who we are. -[1131.42 --> 1134.32] This is what real faith looks like. -[1134.40 --> 1138.38] And the challenge is to increase our capacities to live -[1138.38 --> 1140.18] and to experience that. -[1140.34 --> 1140.92] And yet, -[1141.68 --> 1144.84] there are many trials, -[1145.92 --> 1148.92] many tests along the way, -[1149.58 --> 1150.68] and many temptations -[1150.68 --> 1152.28] to compromise -[1152.28 --> 1154.08] or to go a different way. -[1154.08 --> 1155.10] In fact, -[1155.16 --> 1156.52] that contrast comes out, -[1156.56 --> 1156.76] right? -[1157.00 --> 1157.94] In verse 8, -[1158.94 --> 1160.26] James says, -[1161.14 --> 1161.74] verse 7, -[1161.94 --> 1163.44] should not think you will receive anything from the Lord. -[1163.52 --> 1166.20] He is a double-minded man. -[1167.12 --> 1167.48] Literally, -[1167.62 --> 1170.72] that's a two-psyched person, -[1170.86 --> 1173.08] the root of our modern word psychology, -[1173.26 --> 1173.36] right? -[1173.38 --> 1175.16] Having two psyches. -[1175.26 --> 1175.56] And really, -[1175.76 --> 1178.90] the way I see it is that you're pulled in two different directions. -[1178.90 --> 1181.66] And that's what it means to be Christian, -[1181.82 --> 1182.72] living in the world, -[1182.80 --> 1184.74] is that we are pulled in the direction of the gospel -[1184.74 --> 1186.50] and godliness and holiness, -[1186.68 --> 1189.72] and we are pulled in the direction of the world -[1189.72 --> 1190.64] and sin -[1190.64 --> 1193.40] and anything else that might be fleeting -[1193.40 --> 1194.92] or fleeing. -[1195.68 --> 1196.96] And here we stand -[1196.96 --> 1198.66] in the middle, -[1200.66 --> 1201.52] pulled -[1201.52 --> 1203.14] and asked to decide -[1203.14 --> 1204.52] which way -[1204.52 --> 1205.40] will you -[1205.40 --> 1206.30] go. -[1208.08 --> 1209.36] What really is -[1209.36 --> 1210.94] that picture of wholeness -[1210.94 --> 1211.88] and faithfulness -[1211.88 --> 1212.74] that is compelling -[1212.74 --> 1214.56] and that you will pursue after? -[1215.42 --> 1216.64] Is it what God has? -[1217.92 --> 1219.40] Or is it what the world offers? -[1221.62 --> 1223.98] To make our faith real, -[1224.58 --> 1225.90] according to James, -[1226.18 --> 1228.40] is to be both hearers -[1228.40 --> 1229.96] and doers -[1229.96 --> 1230.94] of the word. -[1230.94 --> 1232.12] And that's what this series is called, -[1232.24 --> 1233.70] hearers and doers. -[1233.76 --> 1235.30] And we will focus on that -[1235.30 --> 1237.10] more closely later on, -[1237.14 --> 1237.94] but that comes from -[1237.94 --> 1238.32] verse -[1238.32 --> 1239.98] 22 -[1239.98 --> 1241.30] of chapter 1 -[1241.30 --> 1241.76] where it says, -[1241.88 --> 1243.40] do not merely listen to the word -[1243.40 --> 1245.14] and so deceive yourselves. -[1246.18 --> 1246.58] Remember, -[1246.66 --> 1247.54] I listened to the word, -[1247.60 --> 1248.20] I knew the word, -[1248.26 --> 1249.52] but I was a functional atheist. -[1250.62 --> 1252.44] Do not merely listen to the word -[1252.44 --> 1253.56] and so deceive yourselves. -[1254.02 --> 1254.92] Do what -[1254.92 --> 1255.50] it -[1255.50 --> 1256.34] says. -[1257.86 --> 1258.86] So how do you make it real? -[1258.86 --> 1259.42] Well, -[1259.42 --> 1260.38] you hear the word -[1260.38 --> 1261.50] and you do it. -[1262.08 --> 1263.54] You have the faith -[1263.54 --> 1264.98] and you live it. -[1266.20 --> 1266.68] And look, -[1266.70 --> 1268.70] I know it's not easy. -[1269.54 --> 1270.30] And in fact, -[1271.10 --> 1272.44] to do this well -[1272.44 --> 1273.60] and comprehensively, -[1273.66 --> 1274.60] there will be times, -[1274.72 --> 1275.52] there will be circumstances, -[1275.70 --> 1276.36] there will be places, -[1276.36 --> 1277.34] and there will be people -[1277.34 --> 1278.40] in your life -[1278.40 --> 1279.54] who think you are weird, -[1279.70 --> 1280.98] who think you are strange, -[1281.10 --> 1281.88] who think that you are -[1281.88 --> 1282.84] the odd person out, -[1282.84 --> 1284.72] and they will make fun of you -[1284.72 --> 1285.34] for it. -[1285.38 --> 1286.56] They will ostracize you -[1286.56 --> 1287.24] for it. -[1287.28 --> 1288.28] They may even -[1288.28 --> 1289.56] persecute you -[1289.56 --> 1290.50] for it. -[1292.84 --> 1294.44] And I know that we like to think -[1294.44 --> 1296.48] perhaps in different categories -[1296.48 --> 1297.76] when we say things like -[1297.76 --> 1299.16] how far is too far -[1299.16 --> 1300.78] or when we try to think -[1300.78 --> 1302.32] of our faith system -[1302.32 --> 1304.16] strictly in these categories -[1304.16 --> 1305.44] of morality. -[1305.44 --> 1308.20] It was Tim Chester -[1308.20 --> 1308.88] who said -[1308.88 --> 1310.32] that one of our problems -[1310.32 --> 1311.12] is that we think -[1311.12 --> 1311.72] of holiness -[1311.72 --> 1312.94] as giving up things -[1312.94 --> 1313.58] we enjoy -[1313.58 --> 1314.68] out of a vague sense -[1314.68 --> 1315.40] of obligation. -[1316.24 --> 1316.94] But he goes on, -[1317.00 --> 1317.62] I am convinced -[1317.62 --> 1318.38] that holiness -[1318.38 --> 1320.28] is always good news. -[1321.42 --> 1322.18] And so what does it mean -[1322.18 --> 1323.00] to make it real? -[1323.22 --> 1323.38] Well, -[1323.40 --> 1324.46] it means to really believe -[1324.46 --> 1325.32] and live -[1325.32 --> 1326.02] that the life -[1326.02 --> 1327.14] that God has designed -[1327.14 --> 1327.60] for you, -[1327.68 --> 1328.44] one of holiness -[1328.44 --> 1329.30] and purity, -[1329.44 --> 1331.22] is actually better -[1331.22 --> 1332.62] than whatever else -[1332.62 --> 1333.54] the world might have -[1333.54 --> 1334.50] to offer you. -[1335.18 --> 1336.12] And that's why -[1336.12 --> 1337.30] James can say -[1337.30 --> 1339.02] consider it pure joy -[1339.02 --> 1340.22] my brothers and sisters -[1340.22 --> 1341.24] whenever you face trials -[1341.24 --> 1341.86] of many kinds. -[1341.90 --> 1343.46] Because even in the facing -[1343.46 --> 1344.22] of those trials, -[1344.38 --> 1345.34] even in the challenges -[1345.34 --> 1346.98] to the living out -[1346.98 --> 1347.54] of our faith, -[1347.62 --> 1348.74] to the making it real -[1348.74 --> 1349.74] of our faith, -[1349.78 --> 1351.18] it is joyful -[1351.18 --> 1353.70] to be found -[1353.70 --> 1355.48] in God -[1355.48 --> 1357.18] and living in the way -[1357.18 --> 1358.66] that he does -[1358.66 --> 1360.04] and has designed -[1360.04 --> 1360.92] for us. -[1361.82 --> 1362.36] And James, -[1362.72 --> 1363.12] then, -[1363.24 --> 1364.44] will take this idea -[1364.44 --> 1365.60] of making it real -[1365.60 --> 1366.82] and he will apply it -[1366.82 --> 1367.92] throughout the letter -[1367.92 --> 1368.52] and this is where -[1368.52 --> 1369.58] we'll spend our time -[1369.58 --> 1370.58] for these next number -[1370.58 --> 1372.00] of weeks and months -[1372.00 --> 1373.42] looking at these -[1373.42 --> 1374.14] different things. -[1374.28 --> 1375.72] But making it real -[1375.72 --> 1377.38] will cause you -[1377.38 --> 1378.68] to re-evaluate -[1378.68 --> 1379.40] how you think -[1379.40 --> 1380.14] about wealth -[1380.14 --> 1381.08] and riches, -[1381.28 --> 1381.70] how you think -[1381.70 --> 1383.46] about rich and poor. -[1383.60 --> 1384.32] Making it real -[1384.32 --> 1385.30] will cause us -[1385.30 --> 1386.36] to be intentional -[1386.36 --> 1387.40] about the language -[1387.40 --> 1388.24] we use, -[1388.34 --> 1389.84] the way that we speak -[1389.84 --> 1390.84] to one another -[1390.84 --> 1393.78] and to ourselves. -[1395.16 --> 1396.14] Making it real -[1396.14 --> 1397.30] will address -[1397.30 --> 1398.42] what we think -[1398.42 --> 1399.90] is wisdom -[1399.90 --> 1401.04] and what is wise -[1401.04 --> 1402.40] about what matters -[1402.40 --> 1403.50] and how we do it. -[1404.18 --> 1404.98] Making it real -[1404.98 --> 1406.30] will put in front of us -[1406.30 --> 1407.32] the question of humility -[1407.32 --> 1408.90] in life or pride. -[1409.48 --> 1410.30] Making it real -[1410.30 --> 1411.10] will ask us -[1411.10 --> 1412.64] to endure suffering. -[1413.04 --> 1413.76] Making it real -[1413.76 --> 1415.20] will call us -[1415.20 --> 1416.50] to think about -[1416.50 --> 1417.62] prayer -[1417.62 --> 1419.24] and the work -[1419.24 --> 1419.56] of God -[1419.56 --> 1420.04] in the world. -[1421.88 --> 1422.56] James is going -[1422.56 --> 1423.02] to take us -[1423.02 --> 1423.68] on this journey -[1423.68 --> 1424.78] to see that -[1424.78 --> 1427.14] God is real, -[1427.26 --> 1427.88] that Jesus -[1427.88 --> 1429.50] is real -[1429.50 --> 1430.40] and that he -[1430.40 --> 1431.38] changes -[1431.38 --> 1433.02] everything -[1433.02 --> 1434.64] about your life. -[1434.64 --> 1437.62] I want to share -[1437.62 --> 1438.06] with you -[1438.06 --> 1439.86] some words -[1439.86 --> 1441.26] from a young -[1441.26 --> 1441.68] woman. -[1441.76 --> 1442.46] Her name is -[1442.46 --> 1443.76] Jaquel Crow. -[1444.76 --> 1445.04] Now, -[1445.54 --> 1446.40] these are going -[1446.40 --> 1447.10] to be on the screen -[1447.10 --> 1447.62] but maybe don't -[1447.62 --> 1448.08] put them up -[1448.08 --> 1448.66] quite yet. -[1450.32 --> 1451.14] Just a little bit -[1451.14 --> 1451.76] of an introduction. -[1452.90 --> 1453.50] Jaquel Crow -[1453.50 --> 1454.18] wrote a book -[1454.18 --> 1455.24] a few years ago -[1455.24 --> 1455.54] called -[1455.54 --> 1456.50] This Changes -[1456.50 --> 1457.22] Everything. -[1458.80 --> 1459.86] Remember I said -[1459.86 --> 1460.36] at the beginning -[1460.36 --> 1461.10] I shared a little bit -[1461.10 --> 1461.72] of my story. -[1461.86 --> 1463.12] I was 18, -[1463.22 --> 1464.24] 19 years old -[1464.24 --> 1465.14] in that time -[1465.14 --> 1465.76] of my life. -[1466.84 --> 1467.80] Jaquel Crow -[1467.80 --> 1468.92] wrote what I'm -[1468.92 --> 1469.48] about to read -[1469.48 --> 1469.86] to you -[1469.86 --> 1470.54] when she -[1470.54 --> 1471.98] was 18 years old. -[1473.22 --> 1474.74] She is 18 years old -[1474.74 --> 1475.30] and she -[1475.30 --> 1477.68] in this paragraph -[1477.68 --> 1478.52] gets it -[1478.52 --> 1479.40] more than -[1479.40 --> 1481.10] most -[1481.10 --> 1482.42] so-called -[1482.42 --> 1482.84] mature -[1482.84 --> 1483.78] Christian adults -[1483.78 --> 1484.80] that I have -[1484.80 --> 1485.62] interacted with. -[1486.62 --> 1487.78] And I am -[1487.78 --> 1489.60] so encouraged -[1489.60 --> 1491.76] by young people -[1491.76 --> 1493.12] who are -[1493.12 --> 1493.98] thinking and -[1493.98 --> 1494.34] believing -[1494.34 --> 1495.46] this way. -[1495.78 --> 1496.40] So let me read -[1496.40 --> 1497.24] these words -[1497.24 --> 1498.06] to you. -[1498.14 --> 1498.64] This is from -[1498.64 --> 1499.78] Jaquel Crow. -[1499.94 --> 1500.40] She writes, -[1500.88 --> 1502.02] Jesus changes -[1502.02 --> 1503.00] everything -[1503.00 --> 1504.30] about a person's -[1504.30 --> 1504.72] life. -[1505.10 --> 1506.04] From the obvious -[1506.04 --> 1507.02] to the unseen. -[1507.02 --> 1508.00] He shatters -[1508.00 --> 1509.04] black and white -[1509.04 --> 1510.02] into brilliant -[1510.02 --> 1510.58] color -[1510.58 --> 1512.68] and sacks -[1512.68 --> 1513.42] the sleep -[1513.42 --> 1514.20] until they -[1514.20 --> 1515.00] are wide -[1515.00 --> 1515.66] awake. -[1516.34 --> 1516.66] Jesus' -[1517.08 --> 1517.38] followers -[1517.38 --> 1518.12] don't live -[1518.12 --> 1518.72] like they did -[1518.72 --> 1519.20] before. -[1519.20 --> 1520.24] following him. -[1520.34 --> 1520.96] We don't talk -[1520.96 --> 1521.52] about the same -[1521.52 --> 1522.28] things or read -[1522.28 --> 1522.92] the same books. -[1523.04 --> 1524.28] We no longer -[1524.28 --> 1525.22] dress or act -[1525.22 --> 1525.88] or think the -[1525.88 --> 1526.38] same way. -[1526.70 --> 1527.42] Jesus makes -[1527.42 --> 1529.04] people 100% -[1529.04 --> 1529.58] new. -[1529.72 --> 1530.38] He takes the -[1530.38 --> 1531.28] spiritually dead -[1531.28 --> 1532.00] and makes us -[1532.00 --> 1532.68] thrillingly, -[1532.98 --> 1533.44] beautifully, -[1533.70 --> 1534.62] and abundantly -[1534.62 --> 1535.70] alive. -[1538.34 --> 1539.12] That's what I -[1539.12 --> 1539.70] want for you. -[1541.14 --> 1541.90] That's what it -[1541.90 --> 1542.56] means to make -[1542.56 --> 1543.84] it real. -[1544.70 --> 1545.42] And I am -[1545.42 --> 1546.72] so blessed -[1546.72 --> 1547.70] when we hear -[1547.70 --> 1548.40] stories -[1548.40 --> 1550.30] like that. -[1552.36 --> 1552.94] I don't know -[1552.94 --> 1553.32] how many of you -[1553.32 --> 1553.82] had a chance -[1553.82 --> 1555.02] to check out -[1555.02 --> 1555.88] the real talk -[1555.88 --> 1556.70] thing that -[1556.70 --> 1557.28] Pastor Kevin -[1557.28 --> 1557.68] did. -[1557.68 --> 1559.78] And there -[1559.78 --> 1560.38] we heard -[1560.38 --> 1561.06] from two young -[1561.06 --> 1561.78] people in our -[1561.78 --> 1562.14] church -[1562.14 --> 1563.04] who I would -[1563.04 --> 1563.56] put in this -[1563.56 --> 1564.06] category. -[1565.06 --> 1565.92] People who are -[1565.92 --> 1566.98] asking the hard -[1566.98 --> 1567.74] questions and who -[1567.74 --> 1568.96] are making it -[1568.96 --> 1569.64] real. -[1569.64 --> 1577.40] just like I -[1577.40 --> 1578.72] was and -[1578.72 --> 1579.34] continue to -[1579.34 --> 1579.82] wrestle with -[1579.82 --> 1580.30] what did it -[1580.30 --> 1581.44] mean that I -[1581.44 --> 1582.10] lived my life -[1582.10 --> 1583.56] that way and -[1583.56 --> 1584.26] it wasn't real -[1584.26 --> 1585.14] and the impact -[1585.14 --> 1585.54] that that may -[1585.54 --> 1585.96] have had on -[1585.96 --> 1586.28] the people -[1586.28 --> 1586.92] around me. -[1589.76 --> 1590.40] Continue to -[1590.40 --> 1590.78] ask that -[1590.78 --> 1591.18] question. -[1592.30 --> 1592.98] What does it -[1592.98 --> 1593.48] mean to live -[1593.48 --> 1594.14] my life the -[1594.14 --> 1594.58] way that I -[1594.58 --> 1595.26] do now and -[1595.26 --> 1595.86] what impact -[1595.86 --> 1596.52] will it have -[1596.52 --> 1597.38] on the people -[1597.38 --> 1598.00] around me? -[1598.00 --> 1600.30] I think -[1600.30 --> 1600.68] about my -[1600.68 --> 1601.00] kids. -[1602.20 --> 1602.90] My daughter -[1602.90 --> 1603.50] who is eight -[1603.50 --> 1604.02] years old -[1604.02 --> 1605.60] who I hope -[1605.60 --> 1606.46] will one day -[1606.46 --> 1607.42] sit and have -[1607.42 --> 1608.06] the conviction -[1608.06 --> 1608.92] that Ruth did -[1608.92 --> 1609.54] when she talked -[1609.54 --> 1610.22] to Pastor Kevin -[1610.22 --> 1610.92] about reading -[1610.92 --> 1611.26] the Bible -[1611.26 --> 1611.62] with her -[1611.62 --> 1612.12] friends and -[1612.12 --> 1612.62] about wrestling -[1612.62 --> 1613.04] with what it -[1613.04 --> 1613.44] means to be -[1613.44 --> 1613.82] a follower -[1613.82 --> 1614.30] of Jesus. -[1617.06 --> 1617.62] But that -[1617.62 --> 1618.12] starts with -[1618.12 --> 1618.38] me. -[1619.48 --> 1619.94] And that -[1619.94 --> 1620.32] starts with -[1620.32 --> 1620.98] how I live. -[1622.60 --> 1622.88] And it -[1622.88 --> 1623.28] starts with -[1623.28 --> 1624.48] how I am -[1624.48 --> 1625.72] convicted and -[1625.72 --> 1627.60] changed and -[1627.60 --> 1627.84] live a -[1627.84 --> 1628.18] compelling -[1628.18 --> 1628.62] life. -[1629.88 --> 1630.46] And it -[1630.46 --> 1630.84] starts with -[1630.84 --> 1631.02] you. -[1632.34 --> 1632.96] And how -[1632.96 --> 1633.46] you live. -[1634.46 --> 1634.96] Because the -[1634.96 --> 1636.14] reality is that -[1636.14 --> 1637.20] Jesus came and -[1637.20 --> 1637.98] lived the life -[1637.98 --> 1638.74] that I should -[1638.74 --> 1639.14] have lived. -[1639.20 --> 1639.56] And Jesus -[1639.56 --> 1640.40] died the death -[1640.40 --> 1640.72] that I -[1640.72 --> 1641.02] deserved. -[1641.10 --> 1641.84] And in his -[1641.84 --> 1642.92] resurrection he -[1642.92 --> 1643.84] has won victory -[1643.84 --> 1644.74] over sin and -[1644.74 --> 1644.94] death. -[1645.20 --> 1645.78] And now by -[1645.78 --> 1646.60] grace through -[1646.60 --> 1647.38] faith he -[1647.38 --> 1648.16] grants to -[1648.16 --> 1649.24] you all that -[1649.24 --> 1651.78] you need to -[1651.78 --> 1653.38] be adopted as -[1653.38 --> 1653.76] a son or -[1653.76 --> 1654.18] daughter of -[1654.18 --> 1654.42] God. -[1654.64 --> 1655.22] He gives -[1655.22 --> 1656.00] you perfect -[1656.00 --> 1656.42] righteousness. -[1656.42 --> 1657.32] He declares -[1657.32 --> 1658.58] you holy. -[1659.86 --> 1660.30] He's taken -[1660.30 --> 1661.04] from you the -[1661.04 --> 1661.64] punishment for -[1661.64 --> 1662.42] sin and this -[1662.42 --> 1663.76] is the reality -[1663.76 --> 1665.00] in which we -[1665.00 --> 1666.16] now live. -[1666.26 --> 1666.94] And so make -[1666.94 --> 1667.54] it real. -[1669.40 --> 1670.28] Live such -[1670.28 --> 1671.90] compelling lives -[1671.90 --> 1672.72] in the world -[1672.72 --> 1673.34] that though they -[1673.34 --> 1673.98] might accuse you -[1673.98 --> 1674.56] of doing wrong, -[1674.64 --> 1675.06] that though they -[1675.06 --> 1675.86] might think you -[1675.86 --> 1676.52] are weird and -[1676.52 --> 1676.98] strange, that -[1676.98 --> 1677.42] though you might -[1677.42 --> 1678.06] be ostracized, -[1678.14 --> 1678.54] that though maybe -[1678.54 --> 1679.10] you will lose -[1679.10 --> 1679.76] your job, maybe -[1679.76 --> 1680.26] you will lose -[1680.26 --> 1680.68] your friends, -[1680.94 --> 1681.54] live such -[1681.54 --> 1682.98] compelling lives -[1682.98 --> 1683.60] in the world -[1683.60 --> 1684.22] that though they -[1684.22 --> 1684.88] accuse you of -[1684.88 --> 1685.78] doing wrong, they -[1685.78 --> 1686.48] will see your -[1686.48 --> 1687.58] good deeds and -[1687.58 --> 1689.12] glorify God on -[1689.12 --> 1690.18] the day he -[1690.18 --> 1691.04] visits. -[1691.66 --> 1693.54] Make it real. -[1696.34 --> 1697.24] And see what -[1697.24 --> 1699.50] God does in -[1699.50 --> 1701.68] your life and -[1701.68 --> 1702.16] with you. -[1703.20 --> 1703.50] Amen? -[1704.62 --> 1705.32] Let's pray -[1705.32 --> 1705.60] together. -[1705.60 --> 1712.18] Lord Jesus, may -[1712.18 --> 1714.40] our faith be -[1714.40 --> 1715.28] real. -[1715.42 --> 1716.50] May our love be -[1716.50 --> 1717.86] more than words. -[1718.56 --> 1719.20] May what we -[1719.20 --> 1721.20] profess with our -[1721.20 --> 1723.12] mouth match how -[1723.12 --> 1724.94] we live in our -[1724.94 --> 1725.78] lifestyles. -[1728.48 --> 1731.10] May our lives be -[1731.10 --> 1732.56] so compelling, -[1732.56 --> 1735.36] so beautiful, -[1736.36 --> 1737.54] that the majesty -[1737.54 --> 1738.90] of your gospel, -[1739.12 --> 1740.06] the beauty of -[1740.06 --> 1741.02] your face, Lord -[1741.02 --> 1742.36] Jesus, is made -[1742.36 --> 1743.76] so abundantly -[1743.76 --> 1744.88] clear in all -[1744.88 --> 1745.82] that we do and -[1745.82 --> 1746.38] in all that we -[1746.38 --> 1749.84] say, that people -[1749.84 --> 1751.42] will be drawn to -[1751.42 --> 1753.88] you through us. -[1755.54 --> 1756.68] That our kids -[1756.68 --> 1757.68] will be drawn to -[1757.68 --> 1759.42] you through us. -[1759.58 --> 1760.42] That our neighbors -[1760.42 --> 1761.66] will be drawn to -[1761.66 --> 1762.72] you through us. -[1762.80 --> 1763.58] That our friends -[1763.58 --> 1764.88] will be drawn to -[1764.88 --> 1765.84] you through us. -[1765.94 --> 1766.62] That our brothers -[1766.62 --> 1769.28] and sisters will -[1769.28 --> 1770.10] be drawn to you -[1770.10 --> 1771.38] through us such -[1771.38 --> 1772.44] that each and -[1772.44 --> 1773.84] every one may -[1773.84 --> 1775.08] become for us -[1775.08 --> 1776.20] brothers and -[1776.20 --> 1778.38] sisters in your -[1778.38 --> 1779.44] name. -[1781.44 --> 1782.80] In your name -[1782.80 --> 1783.56] we pray. -[1785.04 --> 1785.42] Amen. -[1785.42 --> 1785.54] Amen. -[1787.06 --> 1787.82] Amen. diff --git a/New Year's Eve - December 31, 2022_summary.txt b/New Year's Eve - December 31, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index eccbb57a46a6ca63a9c1d2877b604db45045a1c8..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/New Year's Eve - December 31, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,188 +0,0 @@ -• Jesus' presence in all aspects of life -• Worship and praise to God -• The birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ -• The gospel truth and its significance -• Freedom through Jesus Christ -• New Year's Eve worship service -• Worship service will include songs, videos, prayer, and a word -• Call to worship comes from Isaiah 25 and 40 -• Description of God's power and sovereignty -• Description of Jesus' sacrifice and resurrection -• Praise and adoration of God -• Music and singing about God's glory and greatness -• Fears and doubts expressed in song -• Greatness of God mentioned -• Hope and confidence in God's power -• Worship and praise to God -• References to Jesus Christ, King of kings, Lamb, and Lord -• Scripture references or quotes -• Music/song lyrics about God and worship -• Collection for the budget mentioned -• Expression of gratitude to Jesus -• Reference to a song or hymn about sacrifice and redemption -• Recitation of a prayer or poem about faith, sin, and salvation -• Repetition of phrases "I am not my own" and "In my life and in death, to you, Lord, rise my Lord" -• Invitation to come to Jesus for forgiveness and salvation -• Praise and worship of God's love and provision -• Prayer and praise for God's love and salvation -• Bringing failures and addictions to the cross -• Faith and trust in God even in difficult times -• Victory over pain and suffering through faith in Christ -• Worship and praise to God as the source of hope and strength -• Confession of Christ as the only hope and life -• Prayer for God's providence and favor -• Gratitude for the church's community and outreach efforts -• Praise for God's presence and salvation throughout the year -• Encouragement to worship and praise God through music and song -• Appreciation for church staff, volunteers, and members who serve -• Reflection on challenges faced in 2022, including pandemic restrictions and economic hardships -• Hope and anticipation of Jesus' second coming and eternal reign -• A gentleman's comment about a pastor's sermon being the best he heard all year -• The significance of New Year's Eve church services, reflecting on the past and looking to the future -• An analogy comparing exploration and faith to jumping from cliffs at Kilbert Provincial Park as a child -• The Israelites are standing at the edge of entering the Promised Land -• Moses sends twelve men to scout out the land, but this is actually a different story from what people remember (Sunday school version) -• Forty years later, when the Israelites return with Joshua, two spies were sent into the land, not twelve -• Moses instructs Israelite leaders to send "men" or "leaders" to explore the land of Canaan -• In Hebrew, the word "Rosh" means "crown", "top", or "leader" -• Examples of "Rosh" being used as leader or prince in biblical accounts -• Men sent by Moses are not spies, but rather leaders and commanders-in-chief who have seen God at work -• The men go into the land and travel from place to place -• They take in everything they can see and gather fruit, specifically grapes, as a symbol of their promised land -• God has called leaders among them to go into the land and come back with a message -• In chapter 14 verse 4, the leaders want to choose a different leader and return to Egypt -• The princes want to pick a new leader for Moses -• Report on the land of Canaan, including its fertility and resources -• Encounter with powerful people and fortified cities -• Mention of various tribes living in the region, including Anakites, Amalekites, Hittites, Jebusites, and Canaanites -• Conflict with these groups -• Caleb's role in silencing the people before Moses and encouraging them to take possession of the land -• Discussion about God going before the Israelites -• Caleb's reluctance to attack a city due to its strength and potential negative impact on the Israelites -• Spread of bad reports among the Israelites about the land they had explored -• Nephilim mentioned in Genesis 6 -• Story of fallen angels and men -• Anak, descendants of the Nephilim -• Comparing the Nephilim to grasshoppers -• Fear, doubt, and worry as a response to seeing oneself -• God's message to a chosen people about their future -• Identity as children of God -• Relationship with Christ and co-heirs with Him -• Understanding one's true identity and inheritance in Christ -• Fear and doubt, and their relationship to forgetting one's identity in Christ -• The call to listen to God's voice and remember one's true identity -• Shame voice vs. the voice of Jesus -• Comparison of people's responses to God's actions in Egypt and now -• Consideration of going back to Egypt instead of following God into Canaan -• Choosing a leader to go back to Egypt -• The concept of people listening to the voice of others rather than God's voice -• A comparison between ancient history and current events -• Discussion of the biblical story from creation to the exodus out of slavery in Egypt -• The giving of the law and confirmation of the relationship between God and his people -• The biblical promise made to Abraham regarding the descendants becoming a great nation -• The current status of the Jewish people as a great nation with over 2 million in number -• The Promised Land and its connection to the history of redemption for God's people -• God's desire, willingness, and ability to bring His people from exile to their homeland -• The people's desire for a new leader and their reluctance to accept the current circumstances -• Hiking up a mountain -• Group's decision to turn back due to heat and time constraints -• Leader's statement about it taking 24 minutes for the group to complain -• Comparison of Israelites' struggle in the Bible with the group's experience -• Sympathy and understanding for the Israelites' grumbling and struggles -• The Israelites settled in Goshen, but it is hundreds of miles from Thebes, which was the capital of Egypt at that time. -• The physical distance between Pharaoh and the Israelites was significant, implying a level of autonomy. -• The Israelites lived with relative comfort and experienced prosperity for generations. -• Despite being slaves, the vast majority of the population enjoyed good conditions and prospered during that time. -• The past is familiar because it has been studied and learned from, but it is also finished and cannot be changed. -• The unknown is harder and unfamiliar -• Humans prefer familiarity over the unknown -• We choose comfort, even if it's not the best option -• People work this way, especially when they forget God's will or what He has done for them -• God sees people doing things that are not in His plan -• Evidence is presented to demonstrate a nation's transformation from despair to strength -• The Israelites' unfaithfulness leads to the precipice of disaster and destruction -• A choice must be made: to leap into the unknown or turn back from the precipice -• Many are uncertain, but some may choose to follow the lead of Israel and return to a comfortable, familiar past -• Nostalgia for the past vs confidence in the future -• The importance of not getting stuck looking backwards -• Tradition and history as a foundation for moving forward -• Confidence, boldness, and stepping into the future -• Christian faith as an ancient tradition rooted in history but needing to adapt and move forward -• God is slow to anger and abounding in love -• The story of the Israelites is the crux of the matter -• Moses knows that God wants it known that He is compassionate and gracious -• Moses says to God, instead of destroying these people, this is your chance to show them more evidence -• Caleb's quote in chapter 14 verse 9 of the Bible -• Faith that God will provide for them -• The Lord is with us, do not be afraid -• Translation of "They are no more than bread to us" -• Idiomatic translation of "eat Canaanites for breakfast" -• Faith is a matter of trust and decision -• It's a choice to follow God, whether for the first time or in new ways -• God has been tugging on people's minds, encouraging them to take a leap of faith -• Trusting God means surrendering control and trusting in His loving arms -• Reflecting on the past year and what God has done -• Looking ahead to the future and trusting in God's plans -• Stepping confidently into new opportunities -• Leadership and trusting in God's guidance -• Embracing uncertainty and unknown futures -• Trusting in God's sovereignty and wisdom -• Caleb and Joshua allowed to enter the Promised Land -• Incident where people rebelled against God, leading to a story recorded in Numbers 14 -• Israelites come into the land for a second time with Joshua as leader -• Moses' replacement, Caleb remains head of his tribe -• Battle of Jericho has happened -• Caleb's age and longevity -• His experience in the wilderness with Moses -• His current physical condition and strength -• His faith in God's promise and provision -• His understanding of God's guidance and leadership in battle -• Grumbling is a human tendency -• Israelites grumbled against Moses and Aaron in scripture -• God says it's worth mentioning how humans are good at grumbling -• Comparison between church people and humans being good at grumbling -• Noticing that people can grumble, but others can do so too -• The story is coming to an end -• Grumbling of the community is a continuation of previous events -• Moses' leadership is being questioned and challenged -• People are struggling, asking questions, and seeking change -• Reading and completing the book of Numbers is recommended -• Tools for testing one's faith -• Faith being formed and shaped in hardship -• Overcoming struggles with the help of faith -• The comfort and ease that comes from hanging on to faith -• Losing faith when things are easy -• Experiencing a stronger faith through prayer and seeking help -• The importance of faith and discipline in times of chaos -• God's presence and guidance during difficult times -• The danger of complacency and forgetting the disciplines of one's faith when things are easy -• The forging of faith through trials and tribulations -• Overcoming doubt, fear, shame, and losing one's way -• Recognizing oneself as a possession of God and not a grasshopper -• Reflecting on past experiences and looking forward to the future with courage -• Challenges and trials come to test faith -• God's best work is done in difficult moments -• Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord -• Trust in God's power and protection -• Use challenges to forge faith and step forward with confidence -• Prayer and victory -• God as a fortress and helper -• Mortal struggles and prevailing evil -• Seeking guidance and strength from God -• Faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior -• Spiritual battle against worldly threats -• God's truth will triumph through us over darkness and its prince -• We can endure the rage of darkness because its doom is sure -• God's word threatens God, implying divine protection from harm -• The spirit and gift are ours through Him, giving us courage -• Let goods and kindred go to sustain this mortal life -• God's truth abides still, His kingdom forever standing -• Prayer and blessings for the speaker -• Don't be afraid, God's blessing will come upon you -• Go in peace to love and serve the Lord -• Legacy of efforts will only survive if the Lord raises it up -• Strive to build a house that is pleasing to the Lord -• Repetition of phrase "All glory be to Christ" -• Reference to Christ's rule and reign -• End-time events mentioned as being saved by Christ -• Praise to God/Christ throughout the duration of the transcript \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/New Year's Eve - December 31, 2022_transcript.txt b/New Year's Eve - December 31, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a3ef430d07490d0af342fdec156f1a77538e133a..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/New Year's Eve - December 31, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,4717 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 21.00] Amen, Amen, Amen, Amen, Amen, Amen -[21.00 --> 26.18] May His presence come before you -[26.18 --> 29.62] And behind you, and beside you -[29.62 --> 33.10] All around you, and within you -[33.10 --> 36.68] He's in you, He's in you -[36.68 --> 39.68] In the morning, in the evening -[39.68 --> 43.24] And you're calling, and you're dying -[43.24 --> 46.84] And you're leaving, rejoicing -[46.84 --> 49.28] He's for you -[49.28 --> 54.76] In the morning, in the evening, and you're dying -[54.76 --> 56.82] And you're dying -[56.82 --> 58.76] And you're dying -[58.76 --> 60.76] And you're dying -[60.76 --> 62.82] And you're dying -[62.82 --> 82.98] In the darkness, we were waiting -[82.98 --> 86.66] Without hope, without glory -[86.66 --> 90.04] Till from heaven you came running -[90.04 --> 93.76] There was mercy in your eyes -[93.76 --> 97.38] To fulfill the law and the promise -[97.38 --> 100.66] To a virgin came the word -[100.66 --> 104.26] From a throne of endless glory -[104.26 --> 107.74] To a cradle in the dirt -[107.74 --> 116.80] Praise the Father -[116.80 --> 117.80] Praise the Father -[117.80 --> 119.80] Praise the Son -[119.80 --> 123.80] Praise the Spirit -[123.80 --> 127.80] Three in one -[127.80 --> 131.28] God of glory -[131.28 --> 133.28] God of glory -[133.28 --> 134.60] Praise the Son -[134.60 --> 139.34] Praise the Son -[139.34 --> 140.98] Praise the Son -[140.98 --> 142.60] Praise the Son -[142.60 --> 142.98] Praise the Son -[142.98 --> 144.30] Praise the Son -[144.30 --> 144.76] Praise the Son -[144.76 --> 146.80] Praise the Son -[146.80 --> 150.16] To reveal the kingdom coming -[150.16 --> 153.66] And to reconcile the lost -[153.66 --> 157.12] To redeem the whole creation -[157.12 --> 160.76] You did not despise the cross -[160.76 --> 164.36] For even in your suffering -[164.36 --> 167.82] You sought to the other side -[167.82 --> 171.24] Knowing this was our salvation -[171.24 --> 176.66] Jesus, for our sake you died -[176.66 --> 184.26] Praise the Father -[184.26 --> 187.58] Praise the Son -[187.58 --> 191.34] Praise the Spirit -[191.34 --> 194.58] Three in one -[194.58 --> 198.58] God of glory -[198.58 --> 201.02] Majesty -[201.02 --> 209.62] Praise forever to the King of Kings -[214.26 --> 217.58] And knowing that He rose -[217.58 --> 221.34] All of heaven held its breath -[221.34 --> 224.58] Till that stone was moved for good -[224.58 --> 228.38] For the Lamb had conquered death -[228.38 --> 231.58] And the dead rose from their tombs -[231.58 --> 234.90] And the angels stood in awe -[234.90 --> 238.46] For the souls of all who had come -[238.46 --> 241.94] To the Father are restored -[241.94 --> 244.90] And the church of Christ was born -[244.90 --> 249.02] Then the Spirit lit the flame -[249.02 --> 252.48] Now this gospel truth of old -[252.48 --> 254.22] Shall not kneel -[254.22 --> 256.04] Shall not faint -[256.04 --> 257.58] By His blood -[257.58 --> 259.62] And in His name -[259.62 --> 262.98] In His freedom I am free -[262.98 --> 266.68] For the love of Jesus Christ -[266.68 --> 270.00] Who has resurrected me -[270.00 --> 271.00] Who has resurrected me -[271.00 --> 272.00] Oh -[272.00 --> 273.00] Oh -[273.00 --> 279.00] Praise the Father -[279.00 --> 281.00] Praise the Son -[281.00 --> 282.00] Praise the Son -[282.00 --> 286.00] Praise the Spirit -[286.00 --> 290.12] Three in one -[290.12 --> 293.90] God of glory -[293.90 --> 296.32] Majesty -[296.32 --> 304.32] Praise forever to the King of Kings -[304.32 --> 308.32] Praise forever to the King of Kings -[308.32 --> 311.80] Good evening -[311.80 --> 316.62] Welcome to New Year's Eve worship -[316.62 --> 318.62] Thanks for joining us here -[318.62 --> 319.78] If you're online -[319.78 --> 321.62] Thanks for joining us there -[321.62 --> 325.58] Now, recognizing that everyone here -[325.58 --> 326.64] Is a creature of habit -[326.64 --> 328.22] And you sat where you would normally sit -[328.22 --> 329.46] If we were meeting on Sunday -[329.46 --> 331.26] That means the front here -[331.26 --> 333.98] Is largely empty -[333.98 --> 336.24] Now I'm not going to ask you to move -[336.24 --> 338.46] I am going to ask you to sing loud -[338.46 --> 341.22] Because the worship team wants to be able to hear -[341.22 --> 342.90] That we are worshiping together -[342.90 --> 344.80] And so project your voice -[344.80 --> 347.40] So that we can still sing loud -[347.40 --> 349.38] In praise of our God together -[349.38 --> 351.92] I have no other announcements -[351.92 --> 352.90] Other than to say -[352.90 --> 354.80] We have worship tomorrow morning -[354.80 --> 357.30] At our regularly scheduled Sunday time -[357.30 --> 358.46] At 10 a.m. -[358.48 --> 362.24] And so please hope to see all of you there -[362.24 --> 365.08] Tomorrow morning as we worship again -[365.08 --> 366.72] Can we stand together -[366.72 --> 369.34] As we're ushered into God's presence -[369.34 --> 370.74] As He greets us -[370.74 --> 372.34] In worship -[372.34 --> 377.60] Grace -[377.60 --> 379.32] Mercy -[379.32 --> 381.18] And peace to you -[381.18 --> 382.44] From God our Father -[382.44 --> 384.14] From the Lord Jesus Christ -[384.14 --> 384.76] Son -[384.76 --> 385.98] And our Savior -[385.98 --> 387.92] Through the presence and power -[387.92 --> 389.28] Of the Holy Spirit -[389.28 --> 391.20] Amen -[391.20 --> 393.28] We're going to worship God tonight -[393.28 --> 394.54] With lots of songs -[394.54 --> 395.60] And some videos -[395.60 --> 396.96] Prayer and word -[396.96 --> 398.14] And so I encourage you -[398.14 --> 400.28] To join in that worship -[400.28 --> 401.46] In spirit and in truth -[401.46 --> 404.38] There may be a longer period -[404.38 --> 405.38] Than we are used to -[405.38 --> 406.62] Of being asked to stand -[406.62 --> 408.08] And so if you need to sit -[408.08 --> 409.04] At any point -[409.04 --> 409.78] Sit -[409.78 --> 410.74] Worship -[410.74 --> 411.22] Seated -[411.22 --> 412.18] And the like -[412.18 --> 413.78] Otherwise we will follow -[413.78 --> 415.76] Our cues from the worship team -[415.76 --> 417.54] Let's praise our God together -[417.54 --> 419.68] Our call to worship -[419.68 --> 422.64] Comes from Isaiah 25 and 40 -[422.64 --> 425.92] You who bring good news to Zion -[425.92 --> 427.00] Go up on a mountain -[427.00 --> 429.50] You who bring good news to Jerusalem -[429.50 --> 431.46] Lift up your voices with a shout -[431.46 --> 432.68] Lift it up -[432.68 --> 433.84] Do not be afraid -[433.84 --> 435.96] Say to the towns of Judah -[435.96 --> 437.68] Here is our God -[437.68 --> 439.52] See the sovereign Lord -[439.52 --> 440.56] Comes with power -[440.56 --> 442.32] And He rules with a mighty arm -[442.32 --> 444.46] See His reward is with Him -[444.46 --> 447.34] And His recompense accompanies Him -[447.34 --> 450.14] It will be said on that day -[450.14 --> 452.08] Behold this is our God -[452.08 --> 453.72] We have waited for Him -[453.72 --> 455.42] That He might save us -[455.42 --> 456.72] This is the Lord -[456.72 --> 458.30] We have waited for Him -[458.30 --> 459.48] Let us be glad -[459.48 --> 461.22] And rejoice in His salvation -[474.46 --> 489.58] Who has held the oceans in His head -[489.58 --> 495.12] Who has numbered every grain of sand -[495.12 --> 500.74] Kings and nations tremble at His voice -[500.74 --> 505.94] All creation rises to rejoice -[505.94 --> 511.84] Behold our God -[511.84 --> 514.54] Seated on His throne -[514.54 --> 518.34] Come let us adore Him -[518.34 --> 522.56] Behold our King -[522.56 --> 525.06] Nothing can compare -[525.06 --> 530.06] Come let us adore Him -[530.06 --> 531.06] Come let us adore Him -[531.06 --> 545.22] Who has given counsel to the Lord -[545.22 --> 550.06] Who can question any of His words -[550.06 --> 555.06] Who can teach the one who knows all things -[555.06 --> 557.06] Who can teach the one who knows all things -[557.06 --> 561.06] Who can bathom all His wondrous things -[561.06 --> 565.06] Behold our God -[565.06 --> 568.06] Seated on His throne -[568.06 --> 571.06] Come let us adore Him -[571.06 --> 574.06] Behold our King -[574.06 --> 579.06] Nothing can compare -[579.06 --> 581.06] Come let us adore Him -[581.06 --> 583.06] Come let us adore Him -[583.06 --> 585.06] Come let us adore Him -[585.06 --> 586.06] Who has felt the nails upon His hands -[586.06 --> 589.06] Bearing all the guilt of sinful men -[589.06 --> 602.06] God eternal humbled to the grave -[602.06 --> 604.06] Jesus Savior risen now to Him -[604.06 --> 607.06] God eternal humbled to the grave -[607.06 --> 611.06] Jesus Savior risen now to Him -[611.06 --> 618.06] Jesus Savior risen now to Him -[618.06 --> 622.06] Behold our God -[622.06 --> 623.06] Behold our God -[623.06 --> 625.06] Seated on His throne -[625.06 --> 628.06] Come let us adore Him -[628.06 --> 632.06] Behold our King -[632.06 --> 634.06] Nothing can compare -[634.06 --> 635.06] Nothing can compare -[635.06 --> 649.06] Come let us adore Him -[649.06 --> 650.06] Come let us adore Him -[650.06 --> 652.06] Love our King -[652.06 --> 682.04] Let your glory fill the earth -[682.06 --> 687.06] Let your glory fill the earth -[687.06 --> 692.06] For God has sealed his throne -[692.06 --> 695.06] Come let us know the Lord -[695.06 --> 699.06] Behold our King -[699.06 --> 702.06] We have been in the Lamb -[702.06 --> 707.06] Come let us know the Lord -[707.06 --> 712.06] Come, sing it on his throne -[712.06 --> 716.06] Come let us adore him -[716.06 --> 720.06] Behold our King -[720.06 --> 723.06] Nothing can compare -[723.06 --> 729.06] Come let us adore him -[729.06 --> 739.06] Come let us adore him -[739.06 --> 754.06] guitar solo -[754.06 --> 758.06] Should I be afraid -[758.06 --> 763.06] When you've made the heavens -[763.06 --> 766.06] Why should I be afraid -[766.06 --> 770.06] When you hurt the stars and blaze -[770.06 --> 773.06] Why should I lose heart -[773.06 --> 777.06] When I know how great you are -[777.06 --> 780.06] Why should I give up -[780.06 --> 785.06] When you plan to fall apart -[785.06 --> 792.06] In this world you feel like trouble -[792.06 --> 799.06] But you have overcome the world -[799.06 --> 807.06] You shine brighter than the brighter stars -[807.06 --> 814.06] Shored on, purer than the purest stars -[814.06 --> 823.06] You shine, filling us with courage and strength -[823.06 --> 825.06] To follow him -[825.06 --> 826.06] To follow him -[826.06 --> 828.06] Why should I be afraid -[828.06 --> 830.06] When you hurt the stars and blaze -[830.06 --> 832.06] Why should I lose heart -[832.06 --> 834.06] When I know how great you are -[834.06 --> 836.06] Why should I be afraid -[836.06 --> 837.06] When you hurt the stars and blaze -[837.06 --> 838.06] Why should I lose heart -[838.06 --> 852.06] When I know how great you are -[852.06 --> 854.06] Why should I give up -[854.06 --> 859.06] When you're meant to fall apart -[859.06 --> 866.06] In this world we will have trouble -[866.06 --> 868.06] To have hope -[868.06 --> 869.06] To have hope -[869.06 --> 876.98] Over the eyes -[876.98 --> 878.06] You should -[878.06 --> 879.06] Professional -[879.06 --> 880.06] Six horas -[880.06 --> 881.06] You proximal -[881.06 --> 882.06] You need to証 sure -[882.06 --> 885.06] Your life -[885.06 --> 887.06] Pure than the purest part -[887.06 --> 889.06] The cycles -[889.06 --> 890.06] You should -[890.06 --> 892.06] Tang Gallows -[892.06 --> 893.06] Dr. Schnee -[893.06 --> 906.30] Oh, oh, you shine brighter than the brightest stars. -[906.30 --> 913.50] Shine on, more than the purest stars. -[913.86 --> 920.76] You shine, filling us with our ages. -[920.76 --> 923.96] You shine brighter than the brilliant stars. -[923.96 --> 924.18] Oh, inner adds shining, -[924.18 --> 925.36] ёр never feels like our sofistic galaxies. -[925.36 --> 927.08] You shine, part of our stars, -[927.08 --> 927.38] and the beautiful stars. -[927.38 --> 930.30] Have a Lokal Moonbeериal turned on, -[930.38 --> 931.38] you shine, of greater than the purest stars. -[931.38 --> 931.64] Be sure to meet the stars, -[931.64 --> 933.04] and through the stars, -[933.04 --> 933.88] university and the vérminationsagame, -[933.88 --> 934.56] gemeinsam and university. -[934.56 --> 935.72] There's a Krist whirlpool who occurred to the stars, -[935.72 --> 948.58] the distribute club who appeared to the stars, -[948.58 --> 950.44] the appear and theandırach musical. -[950.44 --> 962.08] We will glorify the King of kings. -[962.08 --> 966.08] We will glorify the Lamb. -[967.36 --> 972.54] We will glorify the Lord of lords, -[972.92 --> 977.08] who is the great I Am. -[977.08 --> 983.04] Lord Jehovah reigns in majesty. -[983.94 --> 988.26] We will bow before His throne. -[988.86 --> 993.50] We will worship Him in righteousness. -[994.28 --> 998.74] We will worship Him alone. -[999.78 --> 1004.70] He is Lord of heaven, Lord of earth. -[1004.70 --> 1009.56] He is Lord of all who live. -[1010.08 --> 1014.94] He is Lord above the universe. -[1015.38 --> 1019.88] All praise to Him we give. -[1020.34 --> 1025.66] Oh, hallelujah to the King of kings. -[1025.66 --> 1030.42] Hallelujah to the Lamb. -[1030.92 --> 1035.98] Hallelujah to the Lord of lords. -[1036.34 --> 1040.90] Who is the great I Am. -[1040.90 --> 1049.18] Language of kings. -[1053.68 --> 1054.68] Never. -[1054.92 --> 1058.08] statistic. -[1058.08 --> 1075.50] Majesty, worship his majesty. -[1077.38 --> 1086.50] Unto Jesus, he all glory, honor, and praise. -[1088.08 --> 1099.08] Majesty, kingdom of glory. -[1100.54 --> 1111.08] Love from his throne unto his own, his and the name. -[1111.08 --> 1123.08] So exalt, lift up on high the name of Jesus. -[1125.08 --> 1134.08] Magnify, come glorify, Christ Jesus the King. -[1134.08 --> 1147.08] Majesty, worship his majesty. -[1147.08 --> 1158.08] Jesus who died, now glorified King of all kings. -[1158.08 --> 1172.08] całian Cover by Jesus Christ. -[1173.08 --> 1175.08] Happy Noah. -[1175.08 --> 1205.06] Thank you. -[1205.08 --> 1235.06] Thank you. -[1235.08 --> 1265.06] Thank you. -[1265.08 --> 1267.08] Thank you. -[1295.08 --> 1297.08] Thank you. -[1325.08 --> 1327.08] Thank you. -[1355.08 --> 1357.08] Thank you. -[1357.08 --> 1359.08] Thank you. -[1385.08 --> 1387.08] Thank you. -[1387.08 --> 1389.08] Thank you. -[1389.08 --> 1391.08] Thank you. -[1391.08 --> 1393.08] Thank you. -[1393.08 --> 1395.08] Thank you. -[1395.08 --> 1397.08] Thank you. -[1397.08 --> 1399.08] Thank you. -[1399.08 --> 1401.08] Thank you. -[1401.08 --> 1403.08] Thank you. -[1403.08 --> 1405.08] Thank you. -[1405.08 --> 1407.08] Thank you. -[1407.08 --> 1413.20] In any way you choose -[1413.20 --> 1418.08] And let my song forever be -[1418.64 --> 1424.08] My only voice is you -[1424.08 --> 1429.08] Hallelujah -[1429.08 --> 1437.44] All I have is Christ -[1437.44 --> 1440.08] Hallelujah -[1440.08 --> 1448.14] Jesus is my life -[1448.14 --> 1450.66] Hallelujah -[1450.66 --> 1458.78] All I have is Christ -[1458.78 --> 1461.78] Hallelujah -[1461.78 --> 1470.90] Jesus is my life -[1488.78 --> 1497.02] This evening there is one more collection for the budget -[1497.02 --> 1501.10] Your last chance to help us out -[1501.10 --> 1501.84] Thank you -[1501.84 --> 1502.84] Thank you -[1502.84 --> 1503.84] Thank you -[1503.84 --> 1511.84] Thank you -[1511.84 --> 1513.84] Thank you -[1513.84 --> 1515.84] Thank you -[1515.84 --> 1523.84] Thank you -[1523.84 --> 1525.84] Thank you -[1525.84 --> 1527.84] Thank you -[1527.84 --> 1535.84] Thank you -[1535.84 --> 1537.84] Thank you -[1537.84 --> 1539.84] Thank you -[1539.84 --> 1541.84] Thank you -[1541.84 --> 1543.84] Thank you -[1543.84 --> 1545.84] Thank you -[1545.84 --> 1546.84] Thank you -[1546.84 --> 1547.84] Thank you -[1547.84 --> 1549.84] Thank you -[1549.84 --> 1550.84] Thank you -[1550.84 --> 1551.84] Thank you -[1551.84 --> 1552.84] Thank you -[1552.84 --> 1554.84] Thank you -[1554.84 --> 1555.84] Thank you -[1555.84 --> 1556.84] Thank you -[1556.84 --> 1557.84] Thank you -[1557.84 --> 1558.84] Thank you -[1558.84 --> 1559.84] Yes -[1559.84 --> 1560.84] Thank you -[1560.84 --> 1561.84] Who's only one wasけ -[1561.84 --> 1576.80] To save while creates surrounds -[1576.80 --> 1578.84] Attorney and Doug -[1578.84 --> 1606.84] For your perfect sacrifice, my faith brought you, your enemy, you made your friends. -[1608.84 --> 1622.84] Pouring out the riches of your glorious grace, your mercy and your kindness of no end. -[1622.84 --> 1632.16] Your blood has washed away my sin, Jesus, thank you. -[1632.16 --> 1639.16] The Father's wrath, the equally satisfied, Jesus, thank you. -[1639.16 --> 1652.16] Once our enemy, now seated at your table, Jesus, thank you. -[1652.16 --> 1667.16] The Father's wrath, the equally satisfied, Jesus, thank you. -[1667.16 --> 1678.90] Father of my soul, I want to live for you. -[1678.90 --> 1693.90] Father of my soul, I want to live for you. -[1693.90 --> 1708.90] Father of my soul, I want to live for you. -[1708.90 --> 1723.90] Mother of my soul, I want to live for you. -[1723.90 --> 1732.90] Your blood has washed away my sin, Jesus, thank you. -[1732.90 --> 1739.90] The Father's wrath, the equally satisfied, Jesus, thank you. -[1739.90 --> 1746.90] The blood has washed away my sin, Jesus, thank you. -[1746.90 --> 1753.90] The Father's wrath, the equally satisfied, Jesus, thank you. -[1753.90 --> 1766.90] Once your enemy, now seated at your table, Jesus, thank you. -[1766.90 --> 1776.90] Jesus, thank you. -[1796.90 --> 1821.06] It's my only comfort in my life and in my death. -[1821.06 --> 1827.82] You have fully paid for all my sins and all my debts. -[1828.54 --> 1839.36] Even when I struggle to believe, with your precious blood you send me free. -[1839.36 --> 1853.06] I am not my own, but belong body and soul. -[1853.06 --> 1868.40] In my life and in death, to you, Lord, rise my Lord. -[1869.40 --> 1875.44] You preserve my life in such a way that without you. -[1875.44 --> 1882.48] Not a hand can fall from me unless you will it too. -[1883.32 --> 1895.52] Even when I'm lost in desperation, all things work together for my salvation. -[1895.52 --> 1908.40] I am not my own, but belong body and soul. -[1908.40 --> 1922.98] In my life and in death, to you, Lord, rise my Lord. -[1922.98 --> 1952.96] I am not my own, but belong body and soul. -[1952.96 --> 1964.96] Always by your Holy Spirit you assure me of eternal life and make me willing and ready. -[1964.96 --> 1970.96] Even when I can't see, I'm a fool. -[1970.96 --> 1977.96] From now on to always, before you. -[1977.96 --> 1992.96] I am not my own, but belong body and soul. -[1992.96 --> 1994.96] In my life and in death, to you, Lord, rise my Lord. -[1994.96 --> 2007.96] In my life and in death, to you, Lord, rise my Lord. -[2007.96 --> 2009.96] I am not my own, but belong body and soul. -[2009.96 --> 2011.96] I am not my own, but belong body and soul. -[2011.96 --> 2013.96] In my life and in death, to you, Lord, rise my Lord. -[2013.96 --> 2019.96] I am not my own, but belong body and soul. -[2019.96 --> 2034.96] In my life and in death, to you, Lord, rise my Lord. -[2034.96 --> 2036.96] I am not my own, but belong body and soul. -[2036.96 --> 2041.96] I am not my own, but belong body and soul. -[2041.96 --> 2046.96] I am not my own, but belong body and soul. -[2046.96 --> 2062.96] In my life and in death, to you, Lord, rise my Lord. -[2062.96 --> 2089.66] long fight yeep, trust me, this or am Try toと思 -[2089.66 --> 2102.12] Come all you weary, come all you thirsty, come to the well that never runs dry. -[2102.12 --> 2107.80] Drink of the water, come and thirst on oil. -[2107.80 --> 2120.80] Come all you sinners, come find His mercy, come to the table, He will satisfy. -[2120.80 --> 2126.80] Taste of His goodness, find what you're looking for. -[2126.80 --> 2140.80] Oh God so loved the world that He gave us, His one and only Son to save us. -[2140.80 --> 2147.80] Whoever believes in Him will live forever. -[2156.80 --> 2173.80] Bring all your failures, bring your addictions. -[2173.80 --> 2178.80] Come lay them down at the foot of the cross. -[2178.80 --> 2185.80] Jesus is waiting there with open arms. -[2185.80 --> 2187.80] She is open arms. -[2187.80 --> 2197.80] For God so loved the world that He gave us, His one and only Son to save us. -[2197.80 --> 2203.80] Whoever believes in Him will live forever. -[2203.80 --> 2212.80] The power of hell forever defeated. -[2212.80 --> 2216.80] Now it is wealth, I'm walking in freedom. -[2216.80 --> 2222.80] Oh God so loved, God so loved the world. -[2222.80 --> 2235.80] Praise God, praise God, praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[2235.80 --> 2245.80] Praise Him, praise Him, for the wonders of His love. -[2245.80 --> 2260.80] Praise Him, praise Him, praise Him, praise Him, praise Him, praise Him. -[2260.80 --> 2266.80] For the wonders of His love, His amazing love. -[2266.80 --> 2287.80] Oh God so loved the world that He gave us, His one and only Son to save us. -[2287.80 --> 2308.80] If so Him, coarse him, praise Him, He gave us, His love, Hisième and sweet love. -[2308.80 --> 2311.84] God so loved the world -[2311.84 --> 2318.10] Bring all your failures -[2318.10 --> 2320.46] Bring your addictions -[2320.46 --> 2325.14] Come lay them down at the foot of the cross -[2325.14 --> 2327.64] Jesus is waiting -[2327.64 --> 2331.38] God so loved the world -[2338.80 --> 2358.42] This is my prayer in the desert -[2358.42 --> 2362.58] When all that's within me feels dry -[2362.58 --> 2367.70] This is my prayer in the heart currently -[2367.70 --> 2371.58] My God, I should have God who provides -[2371.58 --> 2375.86] This is my prayer in the fire -[2375.86 --> 2380.30] In weakness or child or pain -[2380.30 --> 2385.56] There is a faith proved of more worth than gold -[2385.56 --> 2389.22] To refine me, look through the flame -[2389.22 --> 2393.46] And I will bring grace -[2393.46 --> 2395.52] I will bring hope -[2395.52 --> 2399.40] No weapon formed against me shall remain -[2399.40 --> 2401.40] I will reject -[2401.40 --> 2403.68] I will declare -[2403.68 --> 2406.32] God is my victory -[2406.32 --> 2408.14] And you speak -[2408.14 --> 2419.68] This is my prayer in the battle -[2419.68 --> 2423.58] I'm trying to sail on its way -[2423.58 --> 2425.02] I am a conqueror -[2425.02 --> 2427.02] I am a conqueror -[2427.02 --> 2429.18] And so every prize -[2429.18 --> 2432.62] So firm on it's a promise I'll steal -[2432.62 --> 2434.50] I will bring praise -[2434.50 --> 2436.50] I will bring praise -[2436.50 --> 2437.18] I will bring praise -[2437.18 --> 2440.50] No weapon formed against me shall remain -[2440.50 --> 2442.50] I will rejoice -[2442.50 --> 2445.00] I will be here -[2445.00 --> 2447.50] God is my victory -[2447.50 --> 2448.50] And you speak -[2448.50 --> 2465.62] I will sham -[2465.62 --> 2471.90] As for us -[2471.90 --> 2479.90] All of my life, He never sees, and when you are still God, I have a reason to see. -[2479.90 --> 2485.90] I have a reason to worship. -[2485.90 --> 2497.90] All of my life, He never sees, and when you are still God, I have a reason to sing. -[2497.90 --> 2502.90] I have a reason to worship. -[2502.90 --> 2515.90] All of my life, He never sees, and when you are still God, I have a reason to sing. -[2515.90 --> 2520.90] I have a reason to worship. -[2520.90 --> 2529.90] I will bring faith, I will bring faith, no weapon formed against me shall remain. -[2529.90 --> 2539.90] I will rejoice, I will declare, God is my victory to you. -[2539.90 --> 2548.90] If you were, if you were better, if you were human, if I were better, than from you won't you.. -[2548.90 --> 2554.90] Even if you were human in love as Wow and this was my prayer in my harvest. -[2554.90 --> 2559.44] And this is my prayer in my harvest -[2559.44 --> 2563.54] And favor and providence flow -[2563.54 --> 2568.26] I know I'm filled to be empty -[2568.26 --> 2571.84] To get the seed I've received -[2571.84 --> 2588.10] What is our hope in life and death -[2588.10 --> 2592.38] Christ alone, Christ alone -[2592.38 --> 2596.86] What is our only confidence -[2596.86 --> 2602.02] That our souls to Him belong -[2602.02 --> 2606.92] Who holds our days within His hand -[2606.92 --> 2611.44] What comes apart from His command -[2611.44 --> 2616.40] And what will keep us to the end -[2616.40 --> 2621.96] The love of Christ in which we stand -[2621.96 --> 2628.32] Oh, sing hallelujah -[2628.32 --> 2633.06] Our hope springs eternal -[2633.06 --> 2637.80] Oh, sing hallelujah -[2637.80 --> 2641.96] Now and ever we confess -[2641.96 --> 2645.96] Christ our hope and life and death -[2645.96 --> 2657.26] What truth can't call the troubled soul -[2657.26 --> 2658.90] God is the only one -[2658.90 --> 2668.26] That was very lovely, wasn't it? -[2668.60 --> 2669.40] Year in pictures -[2669.40 --> 2671.96] I believe Sarah Mullen can't put that together -[2671.96 --> 2674.50] And maybe it's appropriate just to give her a round of applause -[2674.50 --> 2675.24] Thank you, Sarah -[2675.24 --> 2680.66] It's my pleasure right now to lead you in prayer -[2680.66 --> 2683.24] So if you will, you'll please bow your heads with me -[2683.24 --> 2689.32] Living God, in Psalm 98 we read -[2689.32 --> 2691.86] How we are to sing to you a new song -[2691.86 --> 2694.30] For you have done marvelous things -[2694.30 --> 2696.30] Your right hand and your holy arm -[2696.30 --> 2698.16] Have worked salvation for us all -[2698.16 --> 2700.38] You have made your salvation known -[2700.38 --> 2702.50] And revealed your righteousness to the nations -[2702.50 --> 2705.92] You have remembered your love and faithfulness to Israel -[2705.92 --> 2709.10] All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of you -[2709.10 --> 2710.64] God our Father -[2710.64 --> 2715.10] In our church this past year, Lord -[2715.10 --> 2717.52] We have seen many marvelous things that you have done -[2717.52 --> 2720.18] We just saw pictures from this past year -[2720.18 --> 2723.26] Ministries to all sorts of people in this church -[2723.26 --> 2725.46] To children, to students, to adults -[2725.46 --> 2726.50] Both young and old -[2726.50 --> 2730.66] We saw baptisms of babies -[2730.66 --> 2731.82] Professions of faith -[2731.82 --> 2734.68] Weddings, birthdays, celebrations of all kinds -[2734.68 --> 2737.10] We've heard of the work done in your name -[2737.10 --> 2738.06] By our ministries -[2738.06 --> 2740.56] By the deacons and the elders of this church -[2740.56 --> 2741.44] By council -[2741.44 --> 2744.52] By the many agencies that we give to financially -[2744.52 --> 2746.70] Within our denomination and our community -[2746.70 --> 2750.18] We thank you for the work done to help those in need -[2750.18 --> 2752.76] When weather strikes or war breaks out -[2752.76 --> 2753.98] Or poverty takes hold -[2753.98 --> 2756.14] We give your name glory -[2756.14 --> 2758.00] When we can enter into people's homes -[2758.00 --> 2760.60] And offer your hope when grief is present -[2760.60 --> 2762.96] Or when loss is pulling us down -[2762.96 --> 2764.20] Or pain runs deep -[2764.20 --> 2766.20] Through all of that work -[2766.20 --> 2768.36] You have been faithful, Lord -[2768.36 --> 2771.62] And in our joys and our sorrows this past year -[2771.62 --> 2774.72] Your salvation has been made known to us all -[2774.72 --> 2777.58] Psalm 98 continues, Lord -[2777.58 --> 2779.58] And challenges us by saying -[2779.58 --> 2781.42] Shout for joy to the Lord -[2781.42 --> 2782.26] All the earth -[2782.26 --> 2784.04] Burst into jubilant song -[2784.04 --> 2785.14] With music -[2785.14 --> 2786.68] Make music to the Lord -[2786.68 --> 2787.26] With harp -[2787.26 --> 2789.64] With the harp and the sound of singing -[2789.64 --> 2790.86] With trumpets -[2790.86 --> 2792.52] And the blast of a ram's horn -[2792.52 --> 2793.82] Shout for joy -[2793.82 --> 2794.64] Before the Lord -[2794.64 --> 2795.12] The King -[2795.12 --> 2798.52] We love to praise your name here -[2798.52 --> 2799.16] Lord Jesus -[2799.16 --> 2801.90] Through our singing and worship services -[2801.90 --> 2803.28] And choirs at Christmas -[2803.28 --> 2804.90] And worship nights with teenagers -[2804.90 --> 2806.18] Around a fire in the summer -[2806.18 --> 2807.64] We are so glad -[2807.64 --> 2809.50] That we can come to you regularly -[2809.50 --> 2811.86] And lift up our voices to you -[2811.86 --> 2814.78] Thank you for the gifts of so many in our church -[2814.78 --> 2816.88] For those who play and sing -[2816.88 --> 2819.42] For those who run tech and social media -[2819.42 --> 2821.32] Those who plan schedules -[2821.32 --> 2822.58] Those who teach -[2822.58 --> 2825.48] Those who offer their time to watch our little ones -[2825.48 --> 2827.46] So that parents can praise your name -[2827.46 --> 2829.48] And that we can collectively worship -[2829.48 --> 2832.02] We thank you for the many in this church -[2832.02 --> 2833.54] Who serve you -[2833.54 --> 2835.78] So that we may all worship you together -[2835.78 --> 2838.56] We thank you for the staff -[2838.56 --> 2840.50] No matter if they are newly hired -[2840.50 --> 2841.64] Or recently retired -[2841.64 --> 2843.34] Who serve this church well -[2843.34 --> 2845.16] And seek you in the work that they do -[2845.16 --> 2847.74] And God we pray -[2847.74 --> 2850.24] Even in a year where we've dealt with -[2850.24 --> 2851.34] Pandemic restrictions -[2851.34 --> 2852.76] And economic hardships -[2852.76 --> 2854.40] In a year where we grieve -[2854.40 --> 2856.64] With the many who lost loved ones -[2856.64 --> 2859.68] And in a year where all sorts of news -[2859.68 --> 2861.86] Caused us to feel all sorts of uneasy -[2861.86 --> 2863.30] About life in this world -[2863.30 --> 2865.00] We know -[2865.00 --> 2866.52] In and through it all -[2866.52 --> 2868.82] That we can shout for joy -[2868.82 --> 2870.02] To you our King -[2870.02 --> 2873.16] Psalm 98 concludes -[2873.16 --> 2874.98] Let the sea resound -[2874.98 --> 2876.52] And everything in it -[2876.52 --> 2878.06] The world and all who live in it -[2878.06 --> 2879.92] Let the rivers clap their hands -[2879.92 --> 2881.94] Let the mountains sing together for joy -[2881.94 --> 2883.72] Let them sing before the Lord -[2883.72 --> 2885.62] For he comes to judge the earth -[2885.62 --> 2888.16] He will judge the world in righteousness -[2888.16 --> 2890.88] And the peoples with equity -[2890.88 --> 2894.76] Lord as we have all just come -[2894.76 --> 2895.96] Through the advent season -[2895.96 --> 2898.80] We know that we do not merely remember -[2898.80 --> 2899.70] Your first coming -[2899.70 --> 2901.54] That glorious night in Bethlehem -[2901.54 --> 2903.78] But we wait with bated breath -[2903.78 --> 2904.68] Your second coming -[2904.68 --> 2907.30] Lord we thank you for this church -[2907.30 --> 2908.80] And all that happens in it -[2908.80 --> 2911.14] But we look forward to that day -[2911.14 --> 2912.92] When all creation will bow down -[2912.92 --> 2914.86] When the rivers will clap -[2914.86 --> 2916.22] And the mountains will sing -[2916.22 --> 2918.54] And you will reign over all things forever -[2918.54 --> 2921.94] As we turn the pages of our calendars -[2921.94 --> 2924.24] From 2022 to 2023 -[2924.24 --> 2927.48] Lord Jesus may we remember that truth -[2927.48 --> 2929.24] That no matter the year -[2929.24 --> 2930.70] No matter the time -[2930.70 --> 2933.42] No matter what is happening in our lives -[2933.42 --> 2935.14] Or the lives of those whom we love -[2935.14 --> 2938.00] May we remember that you are our King -[2938.00 --> 2940.00] You love us dearly -[2940.00 --> 2941.52] And you will come again -[2941.52 --> 2942.64] To be with us forever -[2942.64 --> 2944.88] We pray this in your Son's -[2944.88 --> 2946.34] Precious and holy name -[2946.34 --> 2947.22] Amen -[2947.22 --> 2972.22] A bunch of years ago -[2972.22 --> 2976.52] I preached a New Year's Eve service -[2976.52 --> 2978.30] A gentleman came up to me -[2978.30 --> 2978.98] After the service -[2978.98 --> 2979.80] And he said -[2979.80 --> 2980.62] Pastor -[2980.62 --> 2982.48] That was the best sermon -[2982.48 --> 2984.06] I heard all year -[2984.06 --> 2986.42] And I thought -[2986.42 --> 2986.90] Man -[2986.90 --> 2988.82] Like that's pretty good -[2988.82 --> 2989.56] There's a standard -[2989.56 --> 2990.26] I want to keep -[2990.26 --> 2991.26] Going forward -[2991.26 --> 2992.42] I want someone to say that to me -[2992.42 --> 2993.48] Every New Year's Eve -[2993.48 --> 2994.96] For the rest of my career -[2994.96 --> 2996.28] I found out later -[2996.28 --> 2997.86] That that was the only church service -[2997.86 --> 2998.90] He went to all year long -[2998.90 --> 3006.20] We gather at New Year's Eve -[3006.20 --> 3008.76] To reflect on the year that was -[3008.76 --> 3013.78] And to see where God has worked in the past -[3013.78 --> 3018.34] And to begin to stretch our imaginations -[3018.34 --> 3021.24] For where he might take us into the future -[3021.24 --> 3022.64] This morning -[3022.64 --> 3024.30] Or this evening rather -[3024.30 --> 3025.58] We're going to do that -[3025.58 --> 3027.64] By looking at a story -[3027.64 --> 3031.18] From Numbers 13 and 14 -[3031.18 --> 3033.26] And we're not going to read that all together -[3033.26 --> 3036.02] So you don't have to get ready -[3036.02 --> 3037.32] Like I'm not going to start by reading it -[3037.32 --> 3037.84] I should say -[3037.84 --> 3039.58] I will sort of tell the story -[3039.58 --> 3040.32] As we go through -[3040.32 --> 3041.16] But if you have a Bible -[3041.16 --> 3043.72] You can open it up to Numbers 13 -[3043.72 --> 3046.64] And we will look there -[3046.64 --> 3049.34] Eventually as we go through -[3049.34 --> 3052.64] Before we get to the story itself -[3052.64 --> 3057.34] Let me introduce it with an analogy -[3057.34 --> 3060.58] When I was a kid -[3060.58 --> 3063.72] From like the moment I was born -[3063.72 --> 3065.00] Up until I was a teenager -[3065.00 --> 3067.40] Every summer my family would go camping -[3067.40 --> 3068.76] At Kilbert Provincial Park -[3068.76 --> 3070.90] Now Kilbert Provincial Park -[3070.90 --> 3072.96] Is in Perry Sound on Georgian Bay -[3072.96 --> 3075.92] Which is just off of Lake Huron -[3075.92 --> 3078.80] In sort of central northern Ontario -[3078.80 --> 3079.90] Kind of -[3079.90 --> 3082.52] It's a beautiful park -[3082.52 --> 3085.54] That is in the Canadian Shield -[3085.54 --> 3086.70] Now the Canadian Shield -[3086.70 --> 3088.14] Is a landmass -[3088.14 --> 3089.36] Of sort of boreal forests -[3089.36 --> 3090.44] Eastern white pines -[3090.44 --> 3091.14] And rocks -[3091.14 --> 3092.62] That were carved by glaciers -[3092.62 --> 3094.66] However many thousands of years ago -[3094.66 --> 3095.50] That was -[3095.50 --> 3096.66] But because of that -[3096.66 --> 3098.32] There's a particular point -[3098.32 --> 3099.20] Kilbert Point -[3099.20 --> 3102.76] That goes out into Georgian Bay -[3102.76 --> 3104.38] That has a sheer cliff face -[3104.38 --> 3105.22] On one side -[3105.22 --> 3107.26] And then a soft rock face -[3107.26 --> 3108.22] Down the other side -[3108.22 --> 3110.32] And so people would go -[3110.32 --> 3113.26] And go to the sheer cliff face -[3113.26 --> 3114.40] And jump into the water -[3114.40 --> 3115.80] And so you could jump in -[3115.80 --> 3117.70] At like two feet of distance -[3117.70 --> 3118.68] All the way up to like -[3118.68 --> 3120.26] Fifty feet of distance -[3120.26 --> 3121.54] If you climbed out of a tree -[3121.54 --> 3122.88] And then jumped over top -[3122.88 --> 3123.66] Of another ledge -[3123.66 --> 3125.76] And it was awesome -[3125.76 --> 3126.92] And as kids -[3126.92 --> 3129.30] We used to love going to do it -[3129.30 --> 3131.82] And every year -[3131.82 --> 3133.16] We would try to move up -[3133.16 --> 3135.06] To the next level -[3135.06 --> 3135.86] Or height -[3135.86 --> 3137.36] Of jumping -[3137.36 --> 3139.72] Now when you're standing -[3139.72 --> 3141.78] Forty-five feet above the water -[3141.78 --> 3143.38] And you're looking down -[3143.38 --> 3144.76] And you see a rock point -[3144.76 --> 3145.86] That you have to jump over -[3145.86 --> 3146.60] To get out -[3146.60 --> 3148.10] What happens is -[3148.10 --> 3149.22] You sort of hesitate -[3149.22 --> 3152.70] And you start to wonder -[3152.70 --> 3154.18] Can I make it? -[3154.72 --> 3156.28] Is this a smart decision? -[3157.28 --> 3158.36] Should I do this? -[3158.36 --> 3160.02] And then the people around you -[3160.02 --> 3162.16] Will say either -[3162.16 --> 3164.10] Jump, jump, jump -[3164.10 --> 3165.18] And the people in the water -[3165.18 --> 3165.98] Waiting for you -[3165.98 --> 3166.56] Will say -[3166.56 --> 3168.30] Jump, jump, jump -[3168.30 --> 3168.96] Or -[3168.96 --> 3171.50] If they're your mom -[3171.50 --> 3172.46] Who happened to come with you -[3172.46 --> 3172.98] They would say -[3172.98 --> 3174.00] No, I don't think -[3174.00 --> 3174.68] You should do that -[3174.68 --> 3176.38] Please don't do that -[3176.38 --> 3177.82] Get away from the edge -[3177.82 --> 3181.82] I share the story -[3181.82 --> 3183.38] Because tonight -[3183.38 --> 3183.96] As we look at -[3183.96 --> 3185.14] Numbers 13 -[3185.14 --> 3186.78] We will pick up -[3186.78 --> 3187.82] The story of Israel -[3187.82 --> 3189.82] Standing on the precipice -[3189.82 --> 3191.68] Of entering the promised land -[3191.68 --> 3194.86] And there will be people -[3194.86 --> 3195.30] Who say -[3195.30 --> 3196.84] Go, jump, jump -[3196.84 --> 3198.00] And there will be people -[3198.00 --> 3198.34] Who say -[3198.34 --> 3200.32] No, step back from the edge -[3200.32 --> 3201.44] Don't do it -[3201.44 --> 3202.50] The question is -[3202.50 --> 3204.82] Who should we listen to? -[3206.28 --> 3207.20] That's the question -[3207.20 --> 3208.20] That faces the Israelites -[3208.20 --> 3210.58] As we pick up this story -[3210.58 --> 3211.54] Now -[3211.54 --> 3213.22] Let me get you into the story -[3213.22 --> 3213.58] For a minute -[3213.58 --> 3214.88] We pick up the story -[3214.88 --> 3216.72] The Israelites have left Egypt -[3216.72 --> 3217.44] Okay, so that means -[3217.44 --> 3218.64] The ten plagues have happened -[3218.64 --> 3220.48] They've gone out -[3220.48 --> 3222.26] They've crossed the Sea of Reeds -[3222.26 --> 3223.60] The armies of Pharaohs -[3223.60 --> 3225.40] Have been powerfully -[3225.40 --> 3227.28] And miraculously defeated -[3227.28 --> 3228.46] They have moved from there -[3228.46 --> 3229.44] To Mount Sinai -[3229.44 --> 3231.24] Where they dwelt with God -[3231.24 --> 3233.46] They saw him on the mountaintop -[3233.46 --> 3234.38] And Moses went up -[3234.38 --> 3235.80] And he spent 40 days there -[3235.80 --> 3236.48] And he came down -[3236.48 --> 3237.46] And he radiated -[3237.46 --> 3238.96] With the presence of God -[3238.96 --> 3241.42] They have had a covenant ceremony -[3241.42 --> 3241.88] Afterwards -[3241.88 --> 3243.72] Where they confirm their faith in God -[3243.72 --> 3244.20] Where they say -[3244.20 --> 3245.40] Yes, you are our God -[3245.40 --> 3246.98] And we will be your people -[3246.98 --> 3248.80] We commit ourselves to live -[3248.80 --> 3250.68] As you have called us to live -[3250.68 --> 3252.78] And then in the excitement of that -[3252.78 --> 3255.10] They have moved through the wilderness -[3255.10 --> 3257.22] Kind of north and east -[3257.22 --> 3259.50] If the traditional site of Sinai is accurate -[3259.50 --> 3263.70] And come to the place that God had promised them -[3263.70 --> 3265.20] Right? -[3265.28 --> 3267.44] And the ten chapters that precede -[3267.44 --> 3269.62] What we are going to read in Numbers 13 -[3269.62 --> 3271.04] Are full of excitement -[3271.04 --> 3272.20] And optimism -[3272.20 --> 3273.36] And wonder -[3273.36 --> 3274.96] In fact, it's not unlike -[3274.96 --> 3276.34] Walking from the campsite -[3276.34 --> 3277.24] To that cliff face -[3277.24 --> 3278.14] Where you're going to jump in -[3278.14 --> 3278.82] Because you're excited -[3278.82 --> 3279.86] And you're ready to go -[3279.86 --> 3280.70] And you're a little nervous -[3280.70 --> 3281.72] But you know it's going to be great -[3281.72 --> 3284.08] And then you get there -[3284.08 --> 3285.88] Numbers 13 -[3285.88 --> 3288.02] Where we pick up the story -[3288.02 --> 3289.42] Is you have the Israelites -[3289.42 --> 3292.08] Come to the edge of the land -[3292.08 --> 3295.44] And that's where the grumbling -[3295.44 --> 3297.10] Begins -[3297.10 --> 3300.46] Even Miriam and Aaron -[3300.46 --> 3303.20] Who are sort of influential leaders -[3303.20 --> 3304.70] And confidants of Moses -[3304.70 --> 3306.90] Even they begin to complain -[3306.90 --> 3308.94] About Moses' leadership -[3308.94 --> 3311.20] And as the people stand -[3311.20 --> 3312.98] On the precipice of entering the land -[3312.98 --> 3314.56] God tells Moses -[3314.56 --> 3316.64] To send into the land -[3316.64 --> 3317.94] Twelve what? -[3319.38 --> 3320.68] Twelve spies -[3320.68 --> 3322.52] Into the land -[3322.52 --> 3322.54] Wrong -[3322.54 --> 3325.32] It's not twelve spies -[3325.32 --> 3327.72] That's the story -[3327.72 --> 3328.70] We remember -[3328.70 --> 3330.10] Maybe that's the Sunday school version -[3330.10 --> 3330.56] You heard -[3330.56 --> 3331.80] But actually -[3331.80 --> 3334.54] Forty years later -[3334.54 --> 3336.66] When they come back with -[3336.66 --> 3337.58] Joshua -[3337.58 --> 3339.30] Then two spies -[3339.30 --> 3341.70] Are sent into the land -[3341.70 --> 3343.38] Here -[3343.38 --> 3344.62] It's not spies -[3344.62 --> 3345.50] So -[3345.50 --> 3346.96] Listen to this story -[3346.96 --> 3349.06] Numbers -[3349.06 --> 3350.58] Thirteen -[3350.58 --> 3352.54] I'll start -[3352.54 --> 3353.82] With just the first two verses -[3353.82 --> 3354.44] As we -[3354.44 --> 3356.06] Dive into it -[3356.06 --> 3361.02] The Lord said to Moses -[3361.02 --> 3362.54] Send some men -[3362.54 --> 3363.80] To explore the land -[3363.80 --> 3364.34] Of Canaan -[3364.34 --> 3365.22] Which I am giving -[3365.22 --> 3366.04] To the Israelites -[3366.04 --> 3368.32] From each ancestral tribe -[3368.32 --> 3369.80] Send one of its -[3369.80 --> 3371.44] Leaders -[3371.44 --> 3375.14] So when we read this story -[3375.14 --> 3376.16] It's not spies -[3376.16 --> 3376.92] It's -[3376.92 --> 3378.04] Men -[3378.04 --> 3379.40] Send from each tribe -[3379.40 --> 3380.54] That second term -[3380.54 --> 3381.58] Is really interesting -[3381.58 --> 3382.76] Send one of the leaders -[3382.76 --> 3383.40] In Hebrew -[3383.40 --> 3384.10] The word is -[3384.10 --> 3384.56] Rosh -[3384.56 --> 3385.58] And it means -[3385.58 --> 3386.30] Crown -[3386.30 --> 3387.04] Or top -[3387.04 --> 3387.98] It's -[3387.98 --> 3390.10] Historically -[3390.10 --> 3390.50] Literally -[3390.50 --> 3391.28] It's used -[3391.28 --> 3392.14] For the top -[3392.14 --> 3392.72] Of a mountain -[3392.72 --> 3394.28] In the context -[3394.28 --> 3395.46] Of talking about people -[3395.46 --> 3396.72] It means -[3396.72 --> 3397.74] A leader -[3397.74 --> 3399.10] Or a prince -[3399.10 --> 3400.70] Okay -[3400.70 --> 3401.46] So here's a couple -[3401.46 --> 3401.96] Examples -[3401.96 --> 3402.30] In -[3402.30 --> 3404.06] In Numbers 25 -[3404.06 --> 3405.10] Verse 15 -[3405.10 --> 3406.18] It's translated -[3406.18 --> 3407.30] Tribal chief -[3407.30 --> 3409.74] In Joshua 24 -[3409.74 --> 3411.02] Joshua 24 -[3411.02 --> 3411.96] Is the covenant -[3411.96 --> 3412.88] Renewal ceremony -[3412.88 --> 3413.78] After the people -[3413.78 --> 3414.48] Have all come -[3414.48 --> 3415.06] Into the land -[3415.06 --> 3415.54] So this is -[3415.54 --> 3416.54] Generations -[3416.54 --> 3417.34] Later -[3417.34 --> 3418.64] We read -[3418.64 --> 3419.54] Joshua summoned -[3419.54 --> 3420.32] All the elders -[3420.32 --> 3421.18] Rulers -[3421.18 --> 3422.24] That word rulers -[3422.24 --> 3422.78] Is head -[3422.78 --> 3423.28] It's princes -[3423.28 --> 3423.68] That's -[3423.68 --> 3424.10] Rosh -[3424.10 --> 3425.36] The leaders -[3425.36 --> 3425.88] Judges -[3425.88 --> 3426.48] And officials -[3426.48 --> 3427.08] Of Israel -[3427.08 --> 3429.26] In Chronicles 11 -[3429.26 --> 3429.94] Verse 6 -[3429.94 --> 3430.58] Rosh -[3430.58 --> 3431.48] Is used -[3431.48 --> 3432.80] To refer to -[3432.80 --> 3433.98] The commander -[3433.98 --> 3434.90] In chief -[3434.90 --> 3436.30] Of David's army -[3436.30 --> 3438.96] And so the men -[3438.96 --> 3439.60] Who go in -[3439.60 --> 3440.86] To explore the land -[3440.86 --> 3441.14] Right -[3441.14 --> 3442.08] We're not meant -[3442.08 --> 3442.66] To see them -[3442.66 --> 3443.58] As spies -[3443.58 --> 3444.80] Skulking around -[3444.80 --> 3445.40] From bush -[3445.40 --> 3445.82] To bush -[3445.82 --> 3446.32] To bush -[3446.32 --> 3447.26] Kind of hiding -[3447.26 --> 3448.36] And figuring out -[3448.36 --> 3449.02] What they're going -[3449.02 --> 3449.80] To see and do -[3449.80 --> 3452.48] These are -[3452.48 --> 3453.96] Commanders in chief -[3453.96 --> 3455.74] These are the -[3455.74 --> 3456.70] Leaders of the people -[3456.70 --> 3457.30] Who have seen -[3457.30 --> 3457.94] God at work -[3457.94 --> 3458.42] And who has -[3458.42 --> 3459.88] He has invested -[3459.88 --> 3461.56] Priority of place -[3461.56 --> 3462.76] And privilege to -[3462.76 --> 3464.26] Now that changes -[3464.26 --> 3464.92] The story -[3464.92 --> 3465.50] Right -[3465.50 --> 3466.18] At the very least -[3466.18 --> 3466.78] It takes it out -[3466.78 --> 3467.24] Of our Sunday -[3467.24 --> 3467.92] School mindset -[3467.92 --> 3470.58] These are the -[3470.58 --> 3471.00] Leaders -[3471.00 --> 3472.60] Of the tribes -[3472.60 --> 3473.40] And so -[3473.40 --> 3475.44] Shema'ua -[3475.44 --> 3476.28] Shaphat -[3476.28 --> 3476.90] Caleb -[3476.90 --> 3477.54] Igel -[3477.54 --> 3478.42] Hoshia -[3478.42 --> 3479.16] Which we read -[3479.16 --> 3479.80] Later is -[3479.80 --> 3480.40] Translated -[3480.40 --> 3480.80] Into -[3480.80 --> 3481.50] Is changed -[3481.50 --> 3482.24] Moses changes -[3482.24 --> 3482.56] The name -[3482.56 --> 3483.20] Into Joshua -[3483.20 --> 3484.36] Palti -[3484.36 --> 3485.30] Gideel -[3485.30 --> 3485.92] Gadi -[3485.92 --> 3486.84] Emael -[3486.84 --> 3487.78] Sethur -[3487.78 --> 3488.72] Napi -[3488.72 --> 3489.66] And Guel -[3489.66 --> 3491.26] All of these -[3491.26 --> 3491.64] Men -[3491.64 --> 3493.44] Go into -[3493.44 --> 3494.66] The land -[3494.66 --> 3495.10] And they -[3495.10 --> 3496.02] March from -[3496.02 --> 3496.62] Place to -[3496.62 --> 3497.20] Place to -[3497.20 --> 3497.56] Place -[3497.56 --> 3498.34] They travel -[3498.34 --> 3499.42] From place -[3499.42 --> 3500.10] To place -[3500.10 --> 3501.02] City to -[3501.02 --> 3501.36] City -[3501.36 --> 3502.06] Town to -[3502.06 --> 3502.46] Town -[3502.46 --> 3503.54] Taking in -[3503.54 --> 3504.16] Everything -[3504.16 --> 3505.04] That they -[3505.04 --> 3505.54] Can see -[3505.54 --> 3506.54] And as -[3506.54 --> 3507.08] They finish -[3507.08 --> 3507.60] The journey -[3507.60 --> 3507.92] North -[3507.92 --> 3508.30] South -[3508.30 --> 3508.58] East -[3508.58 --> 3509.08] And west -[3509.08 --> 3509.54] Through the -[3509.54 --> 3509.90] Land that -[3509.90 --> 3510.36] Was promised -[3510.36 --> 3510.78] To them -[3510.78 --> 3511.74] They gather -[3511.74 --> 3512.10] Up -[3512.10 --> 3512.62] We read -[3512.62 --> 3513.58] A large -[3513.58 --> 3514.50] Cluster -[3514.50 --> 3515.22] Of grapes -[3515.22 --> 3515.64] From the -[3515.64 --> 3515.96] Vines -[3515.96 --> 3516.78] So big -[3516.78 --> 3517.50] That two -[3517.50 --> 3517.94] Men have -[3517.94 --> 3518.34] To carry -[3518.34 --> 3518.60] It on -[3518.60 --> 3518.90] A pole -[3518.90 --> 3519.24] Between -[3519.24 --> 3519.52] Them -[3519.52 --> 3520.54] As a -[3520.54 --> 3520.90] Symbol -[3520.90 --> 3521.36] Of the -[3521.36 --> 3521.76] Fruit -[3521.76 --> 3522.66] Of their -[3522.66 --> 3523.02] Land -[3523.02 --> 3524.12] The fruit -[3524.12 --> 3524.90] Of what -[3524.90 --> 3525.82] Was to -[3525.82 --> 3526.30] Be given -[3526.30 --> 3526.70] To them -[3526.70 --> 3528.06] So -[3528.06 --> 3529.02] God has -[3529.02 --> 3529.34] Called -[3529.34 --> 3529.72] These -[3529.72 --> 3530.56] Leaders -[3530.56 --> 3531.24] These -[3531.24 --> 3531.90] Princes -[3531.90 --> 3532.56] Among the -[3532.56 --> 3532.86] Men -[3532.86 --> 3533.44] To go -[3533.44 --> 3533.82] Into -[3533.82 --> 3534.46] The land -[3534.46 --> 3535.76] And come -[3535.76 --> 3536.12] Back -[3536.12 --> 3536.98] With a -[3536.98 --> 3537.36] Message -[3537.36 --> 3539.42] Now -[3539.42 --> 3541.02] Real quick -[3541.02 --> 3542.14] In chapter -[3542.14 --> 3542.70] 14 -[3542.70 --> 3543.38] Verse 4 -[3543.38 --> 3544.64] The leaders -[3544.64 --> 3545.10] Will come -[3545.10 --> 3545.40] Back -[3545.40 --> 3545.64] And they -[3545.64 --> 3545.84] Say -[3545.84 --> 3546.56] You know -[3546.56 --> 3547.52] We should -[3547.52 --> 3548.04] Choose a -[3548.04 --> 3548.36] Different -[3548.36 --> 3548.72] Leader -[3548.72 --> 3549.10] And go -[3549.10 --> 3549.32] Back -[3549.32 --> 3549.48] To -[3549.48 --> 3549.84] Egypt -[3549.84 --> 3551.86] So God -[3551.86 --> 3552.28] And Moses -[3552.28 --> 3552.96] Have chosen -[3552.96 --> 3553.88] Their princes -[3553.88 --> 3554.38] For the -[3554.38 --> 3554.78] Job -[3554.78 --> 3555.68] And now -[3555.68 --> 3556.26] These princes -[3556.26 --> 3557.08] Want to -[3557.08 --> 3557.40] Pick a -[3557.40 --> 3557.68] Different -[3557.68 --> 3558.00] Leader -[3558.00 --> 3558.56] For Moses -[3558.56 --> 3559.06] Job -[3559.06 --> 3561.12] This is -[3561.12 --> 3561.34] What -[3561.34 --> 3562.62] Those -[3562.62 --> 3563.30] Men -[3563.30 --> 3564.16] Said -[3564.16 --> 3565.86] 1326 -[3565.86 --> 3566.44] If you -[3566.44 --> 3566.86] Have a -[3566.86 --> 3567.08] Bible -[3567.08 --> 3569.30] They came -[3569.30 --> 3569.72] Back to -[3569.72 --> 3570.02] Moses -[3570.02 --> 3570.64] And Aaron -[3570.64 --> 3570.94] And the -[3570.94 --> 3571.18] Whole -[3571.18 --> 3571.76] Israelite -[3571.76 --> 3572.28] Community -[3572.28 --> 3573.22] At Kadesh -[3573.22 --> 3573.64] In the -[3573.64 --> 3573.94] Desert -[3573.94 --> 3574.68] Of Paran -[3574.68 --> 3575.56] There -[3575.56 --> 3576.28] They reported -[3576.28 --> 3576.82] To them -[3576.82 --> 3577.12] And the -[3577.12 --> 3577.40] Whole -[3577.40 --> 3577.96] Assembly -[3577.96 --> 3578.68] And showed -[3578.68 --> 3579.16] Them the -[3579.16 --> 3579.58] Fruit -[3579.58 --> 3580.08] Of the -[3580.08 --> 3580.40] Land -[3580.40 --> 3581.62] They gave -[3581.62 --> 3582.00] Moses -[3582.00 --> 3582.72] This account -[3582.72 --> 3584.08] We went -[3584.08 --> 3584.56] Into the -[3584.56 --> 3584.82] Land -[3584.82 --> 3585.20] To which -[3585.20 --> 3585.62] You sent -[3585.62 --> 3585.84] Us -[3585.84 --> 3586.28] And it -[3586.28 --> 3586.70] Does -[3586.70 --> 3587.18] Flow -[3587.18 --> 3587.86] With milk -[3587.86 --> 3588.64] And honey -[3588.64 --> 3589.30] Here -[3589.30 --> 3589.82] Is its -[3589.82 --> 3590.16] Fruit -[3590.16 --> 3592.28] But the -[3592.28 --> 3592.92] People who -[3592.92 --> 3593.46] Live there -[3593.46 --> 3594.44] Are powerful -[3594.44 --> 3595.74] And the -[3595.74 --> 3596.14] Cities -[3596.14 --> 3597.36] Are fortified -[3597.36 --> 3597.90] And very -[3597.90 --> 3598.44] Large -[3598.44 --> 3599.54] We saw -[3599.54 --> 3600.10] Even the -[3600.10 --> 3600.62] Descendants -[3600.62 --> 3601.30] Of Anak -[3601.30 --> 3601.64] There -[3601.64 --> 3602.16] The -[3602.16 --> 3603.00] Amalekites -[3603.00 --> 3603.46] Live -[3603.46 --> 3603.80] In the -[3603.80 --> 3604.26] Negev -[3604.26 --> 3604.44] The -[3604.44 --> 3604.92] Hittites -[3604.92 --> 3605.12] The -[3605.12 --> 3605.74] Jebusites -[3605.74 --> 3605.94] The -[3605.94 --> 3606.56] Amorites -[3606.56 --> 3607.18] Live -[3607.18 --> 3607.44] In the -[3607.44 --> 3607.60] Hill -[3607.60 --> 3608.06] Country -[3608.06 --> 3608.82] And the -[3608.82 --> 3609.46] Canaanites -[3609.46 --> 3609.78] Live -[3609.78 --> 3610.20] Near the -[3610.20 --> 3610.58] Sea -[3610.58 --> 3611.12] And along -[3611.12 --> 3611.32] The -[3611.32 --> 3611.60] Jordan -[3611.60 --> 3611.84] These -[3611.84 --> 3612.12] Are all -[3612.12 --> 3612.34] People -[3612.34 --> 3612.68] With whom -[3612.68 --> 3612.88] They've -[3612.88 --> 3613.00] Had -[3613.00 --> 3613.80] Conflicts -[3613.80 --> 3614.18] And so -[3614.18 --> 3614.46] It's a -[3614.46 --> 3615.22] Remember -[3615.22 --> 3615.62] How -[3615.62 --> 3616.44] Scary -[3616.44 --> 3616.70] That -[3616.70 --> 3617.06] Was -[3617.06 --> 3619.28] But then -[3619.28 --> 3619.68] Caleb -[3619.68 --> 3620.30] Silenced -[3620.30 --> 3620.70] The people -[3620.70 --> 3621.10] Before -[3621.10 --> 3621.48] Moses -[3621.48 --> 3621.80] And he -[3621.80 --> 3622.04] Said -[3622.04 --> 3622.28] We -[3622.28 --> 3622.54] Should -[3622.54 --> 3622.74] Go -[3622.74 --> 3622.98] Up -[3622.98 --> 3623.18] And -[3623.18 --> 3623.46] Take -[3623.46 --> 3624.06] Possession -[3624.06 --> 3624.28] Of -[3624.28 --> 3624.42] The -[3624.42 --> 3624.80] Land -[3624.80 --> 3625.32] For -[3625.32 --> 3625.58] We -[3625.58 --> 3625.88] Can -[3625.88 --> 3626.68] Certainly -[3626.68 --> 3627.76] Do -[3627.76 --> 3628.00] It -[3628.00 --> 3629.82] I love -[3629.82 --> 3630.18] Caleb -[3630.18 --> 3631.10] In this -[3631.10 --> 3631.44] Story -[3631.44 --> 3631.82] Caleb -[3631.82 --> 3632.60] Is the -[3632.60 --> 3632.82] Guy -[3632.82 --> 3633.06] Who's -[3633.06 --> 3633.28] In the -[3633.28 --> 3633.52] Water -[3633.52 --> 3633.82] Saying -[3633.82 --> 3634.16] Jump -[3634.16 --> 3634.50] Jump -[3634.50 --> 3634.88] Jump -[3634.88 --> 3634.92] Jump -[3634.92 --> 3636.30] Right -[3636.30 --> 3636.72] Here's a -[3636.72 --> 3637.14] Man who -[3637.14 --> 3637.48] Gets -[3637.48 --> 3637.72] What -[3637.72 --> 3637.86] It -[3637.86 --> 3638.16] Means -[3638.16 --> 3638.34] To -[3638.34 --> 3638.48] Be -[3638.48 --> 3638.66] A -[3638.66 --> 3639.18] Prince -[3639.18 --> 3639.76] In -[3639.76 --> 3639.92] The -[3639.92 --> 3640.30] Army -[3640.30 --> 3640.56] Of -[3640.56 --> 3640.88] God -[3640.88 --> 3641.10] Who -[3641.10 --> 3641.72] Gets -[3641.72 --> 3641.90] What -[3641.90 --> 3642.02] It -[3642.02 --> 3642.28] Means -[3642.28 --> 3642.48] That -[3642.48 --> 3642.86] God -[3642.86 --> 3643.16] Goes -[3643.16 --> 3643.62] Before -[3643.62 --> 3643.92] Them -[3643.92 --> 3644.30] Who -[3644.30 --> 3644.54] Gets -[3644.54 --> 3644.68] What -[3644.68 --> 3644.78] It -[3644.78 --> 3644.94] Means -[3644.94 --> 3645.12] That -[3645.12 --> 3645.40] God -[3645.40 --> 3645.56] Is -[3645.56 --> 3645.70] On -[3645.70 --> 3645.84] Their -[3645.84 --> 3646.16] Side -[3646.16 --> 3646.32] And -[3646.32 --> 3646.76] And if -[3646.76 --> 3647.02] God -[3647.02 --> 3647.20] Is -[3647.20 --> 3647.50] For -[3647.50 --> 3647.76] Us -[3647.76 --> 3647.94] Who -[3647.94 --> 3648.12] Can -[3648.12 --> 3648.28] Be -[3648.28 --> 3648.62] Against -[3648.62 --> 3649.02] Us -[3649.02 --> 3650.40] Caleb -[3650.40 --> 3650.94] And in -[3650.94 --> 3651.66] Chapter 14 -[3651.66 --> 3652.08] We will -[3652.08 --> 3652.42] Read -[3652.42 --> 3653.18] Joshua -[3653.18 --> 3653.84] Are -[3653.84 --> 3653.98] The -[3653.98 --> 3654.36] Only -[3654.36 --> 3654.78] Ones -[3654.78 --> 3655.00] Of -[3655.00 --> 3655.12] The -[3655.12 --> 3655.50] Twelve -[3655.50 --> 3656.06] Who -[3656.06 --> 3656.30] Get -[3656.30 --> 3656.50] It -[3656.50 --> 3657.52] Presumably -[3657.52 --> 3657.82] With -[3657.82 --> 3658.40] Moses -[3658.40 --> 3658.64] And -[3658.64 --> 3658.84] Maybe -[3658.84 --> 3659.16] Aaron -[3659.16 --> 3659.84] But -[3659.84 --> 3660.14] Based -[3660.14 --> 3660.26] On -[3660.26 --> 3660.40] This -[3660.40 --> 3660.56] Part -[3660.56 --> 3660.62] Of -[3660.62 --> 3660.70] The -[3660.70 --> 3660.86] Story -[3660.86 --> 3661.02] We -[3661.02 --> 3661.24] Can't -[3661.24 --> 3661.64] Exactly -[3661.64 --> 3662.14] Be -[3662.14 --> 3662.38] Sure -[3662.38 --> 3663.40] But -[3663.40 --> 3663.94] They -[3663.94 --> 3664.12] Give -[3664.12 --> 3664.34] This -[3664.34 --> 3664.68] Message -[3664.68 --> 3664.90] And -[3664.90 --> 3665.30] So -[3665.30 --> 3665.84] What -[3665.84 --> 3666.12] Do -[3666.12 --> 3667.04] The -[3667.04 --> 3667.42] People -[3667.42 --> 3668.14] Hear -[3668.14 --> 3670.00] The -[3670.00 --> 3670.18] Men -[3670.18 --> 3670.32] Who -[3670.32 --> 3670.44] Had -[3670.44 --> 3670.62] Gone -[3670.62 --> 3670.80] Up -[3670.80 --> 3671.02] With -[3671.02 --> 3671.74] Caleb -[3671.74 --> 3672.14] Said -[3672.14 --> 3672.92] We -[3672.92 --> 3673.22] Can't -[3673.22 --> 3673.50] Attack -[3673.50 --> 3673.74] Those -[3673.74 --> 3674.12] People -[3674.12 --> 3674.74] They're -[3674.74 --> 3675.16] Stronger -[3675.16 --> 3675.30] Than -[3675.30 --> 3675.48] We -[3675.48 --> 3675.72] Are -[3675.72 --> 3676.62] And -[3676.62 --> 3676.74] Then -[3676.74 --> 3676.92] They -[3676.92 --> 3677.36] Spread -[3677.36 --> 3678.14] Among -[3678.14 --> 3678.34] The -[3678.34 --> 3678.84] Israelites -[3678.84 --> 3679.18] A -[3679.18 --> 3679.42] Bad -[3679.42 --> 3679.86] Report -[3679.86 --> 3680.12] About -[3680.12 --> 3680.28] The -[3680.28 --> 3680.58] Land -[3680.58 --> 3680.74] That -[3680.74 --> 3680.84] They -[3680.84 --> 3680.98] Had -[3680.98 --> 3681.48] Explored -[3681.48 --> 3682.66] They -[3682.66 --> 3683.00] Said -[3683.00 --> 3683.22] The -[3683.22 --> 3683.60] Land -[3683.60 --> 3683.78] We -[3683.78 --> 3684.36] Explored -[3684.36 --> 3685.24] Devours -[3685.24 --> 3685.88] Those -[3685.88 --> 3686.30] Who -[3686.30 --> 3686.40] Are -[3686.40 --> 3686.62] Living -[3686.62 --> 3686.80] In -[3686.80 --> 3686.94] It -[3686.94 --> 3687.74] And -[3687.74 --> 3687.94] All -[3687.94 --> 3688.08] The -[3688.08 --> 3688.34] People -[3688.34 --> 3688.54] We -[3688.54 --> 3688.86] Saw -[3688.86 --> 3689.18] There -[3689.18 --> 3689.42] Are -[3689.42 --> 3689.60] Of -[3689.60 --> 3689.92] Great -[3689.92 --> 3690.42] Size -[3690.42 --> 3690.96] We -[3690.96 --> 3691.22] Saw -[3691.22 --> 3691.44] The -[3691.44 --> 3692.04] Nephilim -[3692.04 --> 3692.50] There -[3692.50 --> 3693.06] That -[3693.06 --> 3693.26] Goes -[3693.26 --> 3693.48] Back -[3693.48 --> 3693.62] To -[3693.62 --> 3693.76] A -[3693.76 --> 3694.04] Story -[3694.04 --> 3694.26] In -[3694.26 --> 3694.52] Genesis -[3694.52 --> 3694.92] 6 -[3694.92 --> 3695.22] Very -[3695.22 --> 3695.56] Obscure -[3695.56 --> 3695.92] Story -[3695.92 --> 3696.16] About -[3696.16 --> 3696.50] Fallen -[3696.50 --> 3696.78] Angels -[3696.78 --> 3697.30] And -[3697.30 --> 3697.58] Men -[3697.58 --> 3699.04] Powerful -[3699.04 --> 3699.30] People -[3699.30 --> 3699.48] The -[3699.48 --> 3699.92] Descendants -[3699.92 --> 3700.06] Of -[3700.06 --> 3700.44] Anak -[3700.44 --> 3700.72] Come -[3700.72 --> 3700.88] From -[3700.88 --> 3701.00] The -[3701.00 --> 3701.36] Nephilim -[3701.36 --> 3702.60] We -[3702.60 --> 3703.08] Seemed -[3703.08 --> 3703.40] Like -[3703.40 --> 3704.34] Grasshoppers -[3704.34 --> 3704.56] In -[3704.56 --> 3704.70] Our -[3704.70 --> 3704.90] Own -[3704.90 --> 3705.24] Eyes -[3705.24 --> 3705.46] They -[3705.46 --> 3705.78] Said -[3705.78 --> 3706.28] And -[3706.28 --> 3706.42] We -[3706.42 --> 3706.82] Looked -[3706.82 --> 3707.12] The -[3707.12 --> 3707.56] Same -[3707.56 --> 3708.80] To -[3708.80 --> 3709.06] Them -[3709.06 --> 3709.92] We -[3709.92 --> 3710.34] Seemed -[3710.34 --> 3710.60] Like -[3710.60 --> 3711.60] Grasshoppers -[3711.60 --> 3712.16] In -[3712.16 --> 3712.36] Our -[3712.36 --> 3712.68] Own -[3712.68 --> 3713.44] Eyes -[3716.94 --> 3717.44] When -[3717.44 --> 3717.60] The -[3717.60 --> 3718.00] People -[3718.00 --> 3718.72] Stop -[3718.72 --> 3719.16] Looking -[3719.16 --> 3719.44] At -[3719.44 --> 3720.30] Themselves -[3720.30 --> 3720.68] As -[3720.68 --> 3721.18] God -[3721.18 --> 3721.60] Looks -[3721.60 --> 3721.90] At -[3721.90 --> 3722.20] Them -[3722.20 --> 3724.26] That's -[3724.26 --> 3724.68] When -[3724.68 --> 3725.20] Fear -[3725.20 --> 3726.02] And -[3726.02 --> 3726.52] Doubt -[3726.52 --> 3727.22] And -[3727.22 --> 3727.80] Worry -[3727.80 --> 3728.66] Begin -[3728.66 --> 3728.94] To -[3728.94 --> 3729.36] Rule -[3729.36 --> 3729.68] And -[3729.68 --> 3730.34] Dictate -[3730.34 --> 3731.38] Your -[3731.38 --> 3731.78] Future -[3731.78 --> 3734.76] The -[3734.76 --> 3734.94] Same -[3734.94 --> 3735.08] Is -[3735.08 --> 3735.22] True -[3735.22 --> 3735.42] For -[3735.42 --> 3735.60] Us -[3735.60 --> 3735.88] Today -[3735.88 --> 3737.10] God -[3737.10 --> 3737.42] Says -[3737.42 --> 3737.64] To -[3737.64 --> 3737.90] Us -[3737.90 --> 3738.28] Today -[3738.28 --> 3738.60] To -[3738.60 --> 3738.92] Those -[3738.92 --> 3739.34] Who -[3739.34 --> 3739.66] Believe -[3739.66 --> 3739.84] He -[3739.84 --> 3740.02] Says -[3740.02 --> 3740.50] You -[3740.50 --> 3741.00] Are -[3741.00 --> 3741.32] A -[3741.32 --> 3741.80] Chosen -[3741.80 --> 3743.00] People -[3743.00 --> 3743.32] A -[3743.32 --> 3743.72] Royal -[3743.72 --> 3744.40] Priesthood -[3744.40 --> 3744.60] A -[3744.60 --> 3744.98] Holy -[3744.98 --> 3745.74] Nation -[3745.74 --> 3746.36] God's -[3746.36 --> 3747.14] Special -[3747.14 --> 3748.08] Possession -[3748.08 --> 3749.08] That -[3749.08 --> 3749.32] You -[3749.32 --> 3749.56] May -[3749.56 --> 3750.04] Declare -[3750.04 --> 3750.26] The -[3750.26 --> 3750.80] Praises -[3750.80 --> 3751.02] Of -[3751.02 --> 3751.22] Him -[3751.22 --> 3751.38] Who -[3751.38 --> 3751.58] Has -[3751.58 --> 3751.96] Called -[3751.96 --> 3752.16] You -[3752.16 --> 3752.36] Out -[3752.36 --> 3752.48] Of -[3752.48 --> 3752.80] Darkness -[3752.80 --> 3753.58] Into -[3753.58 --> 3754.14] His -[3754.14 --> 3754.94] Wonderful -[3754.94 --> 3755.78] Light -[3755.78 --> 3756.14] It -[3756.14 --> 3756.26] Is -[3756.26 --> 3756.44] When -[3756.44 --> 3756.64] We -[3756.64 --> 3757.04] Stop -[3757.04 --> 3757.56] Seeing -[3757.56 --> 3758.40] Ourselves -[3758.40 --> 3758.68] As -[3758.68 --> 3759.12] God -[3759.12 --> 3759.52] Sees -[3759.52 --> 3759.86] Us -[3759.86 --> 3760.24] That -[3760.24 --> 3760.36] We -[3760.36 --> 3760.64] Begin -[3760.64 --> 3760.86] To -[3760.86 --> 3761.38] Doubt -[3761.38 --> 3761.76] That -[3761.76 --> 3761.88] We -[3761.88 --> 3762.16] Begin -[3762.16 --> 3762.38] To -[3762.38 --> 3762.54] Let -[3762.54 --> 3762.98] Fear -[3762.98 --> 3763.74] Rule -[3763.74 --> 3763.96] And -[3763.96 --> 3764.16] Have -[3764.16 --> 3764.34] Its -[3764.34 --> 3764.74] Way -[3764.74 --> 3765.52] In -[3765.52 --> 3765.66] Our -[3765.66 --> 3766.00] Lives -[3766.00 --> 3768.70] And -[3768.70 --> 3768.86] So -[3768.86 --> 3769.18] Listen -[3769.18 --> 3770.60] To -[3770.60 --> 3770.84] Who -[3770.84 --> 3771.18] God -[3771.18 --> 3771.54] Says -[3771.54 --> 3771.78] You -[3771.78 --> 3772.16] Are -[3772.16 --> 3773.38] Listen -[3773.38 --> 3773.60] To -[3776.36 --> 3776.76] Him -[3776.76 --> 3776.94] He -[3776.94 --> 3777.14] Says -[3777.14 --> 3777.36] You -[3777.36 --> 3777.74] Are -[3777.74 --> 3778.18] A -[3778.18 --> 3778.96] Lavishly -[3778.96 --> 3779.58] Loved -[3779.58 --> 3780.22] Child -[3780.22 --> 3780.88] Of -[3780.88 --> 3781.24] God -[3781.24 --> 3782.16] That -[3782.16 --> 3782.30] We -[3782.30 --> 3782.50] Are -[3782.50 --> 3783.22] Adopted -[3783.22 --> 3783.44] As -[3783.44 --> 3784.00] Sons -[3784.00 --> 3784.58] And -[3784.58 --> 3785.02] Daughters -[3785.02 --> 3785.22] That -[3785.22 --> 3785.34] We -[3785.34 --> 3785.50] Are -[3785.50 --> 3785.98] Heirs -[3785.98 --> 3786.22] Of -[3786.22 --> 3786.56] God -[3786.56 --> 3786.80] And -[3786.80 --> 3787.22] Co -[3787.22 --> 3787.64] Heirs -[3787.64 --> 3788.18] With -[3788.18 --> 3788.68] Christ -[3788.68 --> 3790.90] Hear -[3790.90 --> 3791.22] That -[3791.22 --> 3791.90] Co -[3791.90 --> 3792.42] Heirs -[3792.42 --> 3792.72] With -[3792.72 --> 3793.16] Christ -[3793.16 --> 3793.38] So -[3793.38 --> 3793.48] That -[3793.48 --> 3793.62] Means -[3793.62 --> 3793.90] Whatever -[3793.90 --> 3794.28] Christ -[3794.28 --> 3794.44] Is -[3794.44 --> 3795.24] Accomplished -[3795.24 --> 3796.90] Is -[3796.90 --> 3797.44] Yours -[3797.44 --> 3799.60] Now -[3799.60 --> 3799.72] I -[3799.72 --> 3799.82] Don't -[3799.82 --> 3799.94] Want -[3799.94 --> 3800.06] To -[3800.06 --> 3800.94] Psychologize -[3800.94 --> 3801.08] It -[3801.08 --> 3801.26] Too -[3801.26 --> 3801.64] Much -[3801.64 --> 3801.90] But -[3801.90 --> 3802.62] But -[3802.62 --> 3802.82] You -[3802.82 --> 3803.00] Are -[3803.00 --> 3803.20] A -[3803.20 --> 3803.58] Prince -[3803.58 --> 3804.68] You -[3804.68 --> 3804.90] Are -[3804.90 --> 3805.58] Literally -[3805.58 --> 3806.40] A -[3806.40 --> 3806.92] Princess -[3806.92 --> 3807.44] Of -[3807.44 --> 3807.66] The -[3807.66 --> 3808.26] Eternal -[3808.26 --> 3809.22] God -[3809.22 --> 3809.76] Creator -[3809.76 --> 3810.00] Of -[3810.00 --> 3810.16] All -[3810.16 --> 3810.34] That -[3810.34 --> 3810.56] Is -[3810.56 --> 3811.08] Because -[3811.08 --> 3811.42] Of -[3811.42 --> 3811.58] Who -[3811.58 --> 3811.98] Christ -[3811.98 --> 3812.30] Is -[3812.30 --> 3812.76] And -[3812.76 --> 3813.02] When -[3813.02 --> 3813.22] You -[3813.22 --> 3813.84] Forget -[3813.84 --> 3814.34] That -[3814.34 --> 3815.76] That's -[3815.76 --> 3815.94] When -[3815.94 --> 3816.38] Fear -[3816.38 --> 3817.16] Wins -[3817.16 --> 3817.80] That's -[3817.80 --> 3817.98] When -[3817.98 --> 3818.54] Doubt -[3818.54 --> 3819.38] Overcomes -[3819.38 --> 3819.78] That's -[3819.78 --> 3819.94] When -[3819.94 --> 3820.36] The -[3820.36 --> 3820.76] Shame -[3820.76 --> 3821.22] Voice -[3821.22 --> 3821.50] Gets -[3821.50 --> 3821.70] To -[3821.70 --> 3822.44] Dictate -[3822.44 --> 3822.62] Your -[3822.62 --> 3823.10] Reality -[3823.10 --> 3823.44] Rather -[3823.44 --> 3823.64] Than -[3823.64 --> 3824.00] The -[3824.00 --> 3824.30] Voice -[3824.30 --> 3824.52] Of -[3824.52 --> 3825.30] Jesus -[3825.30 --> 3826.94] The -[3826.94 --> 3827.28] People -[3827.28 --> 3828.08] Forgot -[3828.08 --> 3828.96] Who -[3828.96 --> 3829.18] They -[3829.18 --> 3829.70] Were -[3829.70 --> 3830.34] And -[3830.34 --> 3830.82] Forgot -[3830.82 --> 3831.04] What -[3831.04 --> 3831.26] God -[3831.26 --> 3831.46] Has -[3831.46 --> 3831.82] Done -[3831.82 --> 3832.06] And -[3832.06 --> 3832.30] So -[3832.30 --> 3833.04] Look -[3833.04 --> 3834.26] Look -[3834.26 --> 3834.52] At -[3834.52 --> 3834.88] How -[3834.88 --> 3836.02] They -[3836.02 --> 3836.80] Responded -[3836.80 --> 3838.80] It -[3838.80 --> 3839.48] Said -[3839.48 --> 3839.76] If -[3839.76 --> 3839.96] We -[3839.96 --> 3840.12] Had -[3840.12 --> 3840.44] Only -[3840.44 --> 3840.96] Died -[3840.96 --> 3841.62] In -[3841.62 --> 3842.10] Egypt -[3842.10 --> 3842.62] This -[3842.62 --> 3842.80] Is -[3842.80 --> 3843.42] 14 -[3843.42 --> 3844.04] Verse -[3844.04 --> 3844.30] 2 -[3844.30 --> 3844.80] If -[3844.80 --> 3844.92] We -[3844.92 --> 3845.02] Had -[3845.02 --> 3845.22] Only -[3845.22 --> 3845.60] Died -[3845.60 --> 3845.78] In -[3845.78 --> 3846.10] Egypt -[3846.10 --> 3846.46] Or -[3846.46 --> 3846.64] In -[3846.64 --> 3846.76] The -[3846.76 --> 3847.18] Wilderness -[3847.18 --> 3847.48] Why -[3847.48 --> 3847.66] Is -[3847.66 --> 3847.82] The -[3847.82 --> 3848.10] Lord -[3848.10 --> 3848.44] Bringing -[3848.44 --> 3848.72] Us -[3848.72 --> 3848.86] To -[3848.86 --> 3849.12] This -[3849.12 --> 3849.46] Land -[3849.46 --> 3849.80] Only -[3849.80 --> 3850.04] To -[3850.04 --> 3850.18] Let -[3850.18 --> 3850.32] Us -[3850.32 --> 3850.60] Follow -[3850.60 --> 3850.78] By -[3850.78 --> 3850.94] The -[3850.94 --> 3851.28] Sword -[3851.28 --> 3851.82] Our -[3851.82 --> 3852.26] Wives -[3852.26 --> 3852.44] And -[3852.44 --> 3852.58] Our -[3852.58 --> 3852.96] Children -[3852.96 --> 3853.18] Will -[3853.18 --> 3853.28] Be -[3853.28 --> 3853.58] Taken -[3853.58 --> 3853.82] As -[3853.82 --> 3854.20] Plunder -[3854.20 --> 3854.86] Wouldn't -[3854.86 --> 3854.98] It -[3854.98 --> 3855.10] Be -[3855.10 --> 3855.40] Better -[3855.40 --> 3855.62] For -[3855.62 --> 3855.84] Us -[3855.84 --> 3856.02] To -[3856.02 --> 3856.20] Go -[3856.20 --> 3856.46] Back -[3856.46 --> 3856.62] To -[3856.62 --> 3857.00] Egypt -[3857.00 --> 3858.62] And -[3858.62 --> 3858.76] They -[3858.76 --> 3858.96] Said -[3858.96 --> 3859.12] To -[3859.12 --> 3859.32] Each -[3859.32 --> 3859.54] Other -[3859.54 --> 3860.60] We -[3860.60 --> 3860.78] Should -[3860.78 --> 3860.98] Choose -[3860.98 --> 3861.12] A -[3861.12 --> 3861.34] Leader -[3861.34 --> 3862.22] And -[3862.22 --> 3862.36] Go -[3862.36 --> 3862.58] Back -[3862.58 --> 3862.74] To -[3862.74 --> 3863.12] Egypt -[3863.12 --> 3864.98] The -[3864.98 --> 3865.42] Courage -[3865.42 --> 3865.74] They -[3865.74 --> 3866.00] Had -[3866.00 --> 3866.40] Before -[3866.40 --> 3867.56] Gone -[3867.56 --> 3868.28] The -[3868.28 --> 3868.94] Excitement -[3868.94 --> 3869.14] With -[3869.14 --> 3869.42] They -[3869.42 --> 3869.54] Had -[3869.54 --> 3869.66] Been -[3869.66 --> 3870.50] Journeying -[3870.50 --> 3870.82] With -[3870.82 --> 3871.18] God -[3871.18 --> 3871.90] Gone -[3871.90 --> 3872.10] The -[3872.10 --> 3872.94] Anticipation -[3872.94 --> 3873.18] Of -[3873.18 --> 3873.44] All -[3873.44 --> 3873.60] That -[3873.60 --> 3873.72] He -[3873.72 --> 3873.92] Was -[3873.92 --> 3874.32] Doing -[3874.32 --> 3875.36] Gone -[3875.36 --> 3875.64] And -[3875.64 --> 3875.90] So -[3875.90 --> 3876.16] As -[3876.16 --> 3876.30] They -[3876.30 --> 3876.68] Stand -[3876.68 --> 3876.82] On -[3876.82 --> 3876.94] The -[3876.94 --> 3877.38] Precipice -[3877.38 --> 3877.50] Of -[3877.50 --> 3877.62] The -[3877.62 --> 3877.80] Land -[3877.80 --> 3878.02] Will -[3878.02 --> 3878.18] They -[3878.18 --> 3878.42] Take -[3878.42 --> 3878.62] That -[3878.62 --> 3878.94] Step -[3878.94 --> 3880.44] No -[3880.44 --> 3882.98] Because -[3882.98 --> 3883.16] They're -[3883.16 --> 3883.44] Listening -[3883.44 --> 3883.66] To -[3883.66 --> 3883.80] The -[3883.80 --> 3884.08] Voice -[3884.08 --> 3884.28] Of -[3884.28 --> 3884.52] People -[3884.52 --> 3884.80] Who -[3884.80 --> 3885.60] Aren't -[3885.60 --> 3886.28] Telling -[3886.28 --> 3886.48] Them -[3886.48 --> 3886.74] Who -[3886.74 --> 3887.00] God -[3887.00 --> 3887.40] Says -[3887.40 --> 3888.02] They -[3888.02 --> 3888.34] Are -[3888.34 --> 3888.70] Because -[3888.70 --> 3888.82] You -[3888.82 --> 3888.92] See -[3888.92 --> 3889.42] So -[3889.42 --> 3889.86] Far -[3889.86 --> 3890.18] From -[3890.18 --> 3891.70] For -[3891.70 --> 3891.86] The -[3891.86 --> 3892.54] Entirety -[3892.54 --> 3893.02] Of -[3893.12 --> 3893.56] The -[3893.56 --> 3894.32] History -[3894.32 --> 3894.60] That -[3894.60 --> 3894.76] Is -[3894.76 --> 3895.38] Recorded -[3895.38 --> 3895.68] Here -[3895.68 --> 3896.20] Of -[3896.20 --> 3896.54] World -[3896.54 --> 3896.96] History -[3896.96 --> 3897.28] Really -[3897.28 --> 3897.50] As -[3897.50 --> 3897.62] We -[3897.62 --> 3897.82] Look -[3897.82 --> 3897.98] At -[3897.98 --> 3898.34] The -[3898.34 --> 3898.60] Beginning -[3898.60 --> 3898.78] Of -[3898.78 --> 3898.88] The -[3898.88 --> 3899.14] Bible -[3899.14 --> 3899.44] From -[3899.44 --> 3899.62] The -[3899.62 --> 3899.90] Beginning -[3899.90 --> 3900.18] Of -[3900.18 --> 3900.32] The -[3900.32 --> 3900.62] World -[3900.62 --> 3901.42] To -[3901.42 --> 3901.66] The -[3901.66 --> 3902.20] Selection -[3902.20 --> 3902.52] Of -[3902.52 --> 3902.92] Abraham -[3902.92 --> 3903.32] To -[3903.32 --> 3903.48] The -[3903.48 --> 3904.18] Raising -[3904.18 --> 3904.40] Up -[3904.40 --> 3904.54] Of -[3904.54 --> 3904.94] Isaac -[3904.94 --> 3905.20] And -[3905.20 --> 3905.52] Jacob -[3905.52 --> 3905.76] To -[3905.76 --> 3906.16] Joseph -[3906.16 --> 3906.58] Being -[3906.58 --> 3907.00] Found -[3907.00 --> 3907.40] Again -[3907.40 --> 3907.68] In -[3907.68 --> 3908.04] Egypt -[3908.04 --> 3908.26] And -[3908.26 --> 3908.36] The -[3908.36 --> 3908.66] People -[3908.66 --> 3909.20] Being -[3909.20 --> 3909.64] Saved -[3909.64 --> 3909.98] And -[3909.98 --> 3910.10] Then -[3910.10 --> 3910.46] 400 -[3910.46 --> 3910.86] Years -[3910.86 --> 3911.12] Later -[3911.12 --> 3911.30] To -[3911.30 --> 3911.42] The -[3911.42 --> 3911.82] Exodus -[3911.82 --> 3912.48] Out -[3912.48 --> 3912.64] Of -[3912.64 --> 3913.16] Slavery -[3913.16 --> 3913.80] With -[3913.80 --> 3914.10] God -[3914.10 --> 3914.26] To -[3914.26 --> 3914.38] The -[3914.38 --> 3914.62] Giving -[3914.62 --> 3914.86] Of -[3914.86 --> 3914.98] The -[3914.98 --> 3915.24] Law -[3915.24 --> 3915.40] And -[3915.40 --> 3915.52] The -[3915.52 --> 3916.22] Confirmation -[3916.22 --> 3916.44] Of -[3916.44 --> 3916.58] The -[3916.58 --> 3916.92] People's -[3916.92 --> 3917.58] Relationship -[3917.58 --> 3918.04] To -[3918.04 --> 3918.30] God -[3918.30 --> 3918.74] All -[3918.74 --> 3918.96] Of -[3918.96 --> 3919.20] This -[3919.20 --> 3919.42] Has -[3919.42 --> 3919.62] Been -[3919.62 --> 3920.78] Given -[3920.78 --> 3921.10] And -[3921.10 --> 3921.50] Done -[3921.50 --> 3921.80] In -[3921.80 --> 3922.36] Fulfillment -[3922.36 --> 3922.52] Of -[3922.52 --> 3922.68] A -[3922.68 --> 3923.02] Promise -[3923.02 --> 3924.04] Made -[3924.04 --> 3924.28] In -[3924.28 --> 3924.76] Creation -[3924.76 --> 3925.24] A -[3925.24 --> 3925.52] Promise -[3925.52 --> 3926.38] Reiterated -[3926.38 --> 3926.82] To -[3926.82 --> 3927.22] Abraham -[3927.22 --> 3927.58] That -[3927.58 --> 3927.90] These -[3927.90 --> 3928.30] People -[3928.30 --> 3928.70] These -[3928.70 --> 3929.60] Descendants -[3929.60 --> 3929.76] That -[3929.76 --> 3929.96] He -[3929.96 --> 3930.18] Would -[3930.18 --> 3930.40] Make -[3930.40 --> 3930.64] Them -[3930.64 --> 3930.94] Into -[3930.94 --> 3931.18] A -[3931.18 --> 3931.66] Great -[3931.66 --> 3932.54] Nation -[3932.54 --> 3933.38] And -[3933.38 --> 3933.56] Now -[3933.56 --> 3933.86] Here -[3933.86 --> 3934.06] They -[3934.06 --> 3934.58] Stand -[3934.58 --> 3936.02] Some -[3936.02 --> 3936.42] Scholars -[3936.42 --> 3936.92] Estimate -[3936.92 --> 3937.20] Around -[3937.20 --> 3937.56] Two -[3937.56 --> 3937.94] Million -[3937.94 --> 3938.22] Of -[3938.22 --> 3938.44] Them -[3938.44 --> 3939.36] So -[3939.36 --> 3939.54] A -[3939.54 --> 3939.78] Great -[3939.78 --> 3940.18] Nation -[3940.18 --> 3941.72] Right -[3941.72 --> 3942.06] And -[3942.06 --> 3942.20] The -[3942.20 --> 3942.68] Promised -[3942.68 --> 3942.98] Land -[3942.98 --> 3943.14] Is -[3943.14 --> 3943.26] In -[3943.26 --> 3943.46] Front -[3943.46 --> 3943.60] Of -[3943.60 --> 3943.72] Them -[3943.72 --> 3943.90] A -[3943.90 --> 3944.22] Place -[3944.22 --> 3944.54] To -[3944.54 --> 3944.90] Call -[3944.90 --> 3945.38] Their -[3945.38 --> 3945.70] Own -[3945.70 --> 3945.92] The -[3945.92 --> 3946.38] Entire -[3946.38 --> 3947.40] History -[3947.40 --> 3947.78] Of -[3947.78 --> 3948.18] Redemption -[3948.18 --> 3948.48] Up -[3948.48 --> 3948.64] To -[3948.64 --> 3948.86] This -[3948.86 --> 3949.12] Point -[3949.12 --> 3949.66] Has -[3949.66 --> 3949.94] Been -[3949.94 --> 3950.18] To -[3950.18 --> 3950.44] Give -[3950.44 --> 3951.06] Evidence -[3951.06 --> 3951.28] Of -[3951.28 --> 3951.62] God's -[3951.62 --> 3952.12] Desire -[3952.12 --> 3952.60] And -[3952.60 --> 3953.10] Willingness -[3953.10 --> 3953.30] And -[3953.30 --> 3953.72] Ability -[3953.72 --> 3953.94] To -[3953.94 --> 3954.14] Get -[3954.14 --> 3954.32] The -[3954.32 --> 3954.58] People -[3954.58 --> 3955.00] Here -[3955.00 --> 3955.40] To -[3955.40 --> 3955.58] Get -[3955.58 --> 3955.76] Them -[3955.76 --> 3956.04] There -[3956.04 --> 3956.42] And -[3956.42 --> 3956.68] Will -[3956.68 --> 3956.84] They -[3956.84 --> 3957.08] Take -[3957.08 --> 3957.24] The -[3957.24 --> 3957.68] Will -[3957.68 --> 3957.92] They -[3957.92 --> 3958.52] Make -[3962.54 --> 3963.38] No -[3963.38 --> 3965.14] Instead -[3965.14 --> 3967.26] Instead -[3967.26 --> 3967.46] They -[3967.46 --> 3967.64] Want -[3967.64 --> 3967.74] A -[3967.74 --> 3967.86] New -[3967.86 --> 3968.16] Leader -[3968.16 --> 3970.12] Instead -[3970.12 --> 3970.32] They -[3970.32 --> 3970.44] Want -[3970.44 --> 3970.52] To -[3970.52 --> 3970.62] Go -[3970.62 --> 3970.82] Back -[3970.82 --> 3970.96] To -[3970.96 --> 3971.40] Egypt -[3971.40 --> 3972.76] Back -[3972.76 --> 3973.98] To -[3973.98 --> 3974.56] Slavery -[3974.56 --> 3977.26] Now -[3977.26 --> 3978.72] You know -[3978.72 --> 3978.88] I -[3978.88 --> 3980.00] I never -[3980.00 --> 3980.28] Really -[3980.28 --> 3980.70] Understood -[3980.70 --> 3981.00] That -[3981.00 --> 3981.18] Like -[3981.18 --> 3981.36] Who -[3981.36 --> 3981.60] Would -[3981.60 --> 3981.98] Choose -[3981.98 --> 3983.04] Slavery -[3983.04 --> 3984.40] Until -[3984.40 --> 3985.72] I -[3985.72 --> 3986.56] Walked -[3986.56 --> 3987.06] In -[3987.06 --> 3987.36] The -[3987.36 --> 3988.28] Desert -[3988.28 --> 3988.68] Of -[3988.68 --> 3988.98] Southern -[3988.98 --> 3989.48] Israel -[3989.48 --> 3990.68] And -[3990.68 --> 3990.76] It -[3990.76 --> 3990.90] Was -[3990.90 --> 3991.36] 46 -[3991.36 --> 3991.82] Degrees -[3991.82 --> 3992.16] Out -[3992.16 --> 3993.24] And -[3993.24 --> 3993.36] We -[3993.36 --> 3993.46] Had -[3993.46 --> 3993.60] To -[3993.60 --> 3993.94] Hike -[3993.94 --> 3994.66] Up -[3994.66 --> 3994.76] A -[3994.76 --> 3995.06] Mountain -[3995.06 --> 3996.36] I -[3996.36 --> 3996.64] Saw -[3996.64 --> 3996.84] The -[3996.84 --> 3997.20] Land -[3997.20 --> 3998.04] I -[3998.04 --> 3998.26] Felt -[3998.26 --> 3998.44] The -[3998.44 --> 3998.68] Heat -[3998.68 --> 3999.32] And -[3999.32 --> 3999.44] It -[3999.44 --> 3999.58] Took -[3999.58 --> 3999.78] About -[3999.78 --> 4000.08] 20 -[4000.08 --> 4000.42] Minutes -[4000.42 --> 4000.62] For -[4000.62 --> 4000.78] Our -[4000.78 --> 4001.00] Group -[4001.00 --> 4001.18] For -[4001.18 --> 4001.38] Someone -[4001.38 --> 4001.48] To -[4001.48 --> 4001.58] Be -[4001.58 --> 4001.74] Like -[4001.74 --> 4001.96] Why -[4001.96 --> 4002.14] Are -[4002.14 --> 4002.26] We -[4002.26 --> 4002.56] Doing -[4002.56 --> 4002.98] This -[4002.98 --> 4004.00] Can -[4004.00 --> 4004.14] We -[4004.14 --> 4004.26] Go -[4004.26 --> 4004.54] Back -[4004.54 --> 4004.72] To -[4004.72 --> 4004.90] The -[4004.90 --> 4006.14] Nice -[4006.14 --> 4006.40] Air -[4006.40 --> 4006.84] Conditioned -[4006.84 --> 4007.20] Hotel -[4007.20 --> 4008.62] And -[4008.62 --> 4008.72] At -[4008.72 --> 4008.88] That -[4008.88 --> 4009.06] Point -[4009.06 --> 4009.14] It -[4009.14 --> 4009.26] Was -[4009.26 --> 4009.58] Amazing -[4009.58 --> 4009.80] Our -[4009.80 --> 4010.02] Leader -[4010.02 --> 4010.26] Said -[4010.26 --> 4010.46] Right -[4010.46 --> 4010.68] There -[4010.68 --> 4011.68] Right -[4011.68 --> 4011.86] There -[4011.86 --> 4012.00] It -[4012.00 --> 4012.16] Took -[4012.16 --> 4012.28] You -[4012.28 --> 4012.78] 24 -[4012.78 --> 4013.30] Minutes -[4013.30 --> 4014.34] To -[4014.34 --> 4014.82] Complain -[4014.82 --> 4016.86] The -[4016.86 --> 4017.28] Israelites -[4017.28 --> 4018.18] Did -[4018.18 --> 4018.32] The -[4018.32 --> 4018.50] Same -[4018.50 --> 4018.76] Thing -[4018.76 --> 4019.68] So -[4019.68 --> 4019.72] I -[4019.72 --> 4019.76] I -[4019.76 --> 4019.94] Little -[4019.94 --> 4020.08] Bit -[4020.08 --> 4020.24] More -[4020.24 --> 4020.80] Sympathetic -[4020.80 --> 4020.96] To -[4020.96 --> 4021.08] Their -[4021.08 --> 4021.46] Grumbling -[4021.46 --> 4022.28] Now -[4022.28 --> 4023.54] But -[4023.54 --> 4023.96] Also -[4023.96 --> 4025.04] As -[4025.04 --> 4025.18] We -[4025.18 --> 4025.36] Think -[4025.36 --> 4025.58] More -[4025.58 --> 4025.88] About -[4025.88 --> 4026.14] It -[4026.14 --> 4026.30] And -[4026.30 --> 4026.48] Out -[4026.48 --> 4026.56] Of -[4026.56 --> 4026.74] That -[4026.74 --> 4027.26] Sympathy -[4027.26 --> 4027.98] Beginning -[4027.98 --> 4028.22] To -[4028.22 --> 4028.76] Realize -[4028.76 --> 4029.00] Right -[4029.00 --> 4029.20] That -[4029.20 --> 4030.06] And -[4030.06 --> 4030.34] I -[4030.34 --> 4030.48] Don't -[4030.48 --> 4030.62] Want -[4030.62 --> 4030.70] To -[4030.70 --> 4031.10] Minimize -[4031.10 --> 4031.42] The -[4031.42 --> 4032.06] Struggle -[4032.06 --> 4032.30] That -[4032.30 --> 4032.44] They -[4032.44 --> 4032.90] Faced -[4032.90 --> 4033.26] Right -[4033.26 --> 4033.68] The -[4033.68 --> 4033.94] Work -[4033.94 --> 4034.12] That -[4034.12 --> 4034.26] Was -[4034.26 --> 4034.62] Imposed -[4034.62 --> 4034.90] Upon -[4034.90 --> 4035.12] Them -[4035.12 --> 4035.24] And -[4035.24 --> 4035.44] When -[4035.44 --> 4035.74] Pharaoh -[4035.74 --> 4036.06] Doubled -[4036.06 --> 4036.36] Down -[4036.36 --> 4036.50] And -[4036.50 --> 4036.64] That -[4036.64 --> 4036.86] Made -[4036.86 --> 4036.96] It -[4036.96 --> 4037.54] Harder -[4037.54 --> 4037.70] With -[4037.70 --> 4037.80] The -[4037.80 --> 4038.24] Increased -[4038.24 --> 4039.04] Difficulty -[4039.04 --> 4039.22] I -[4039.22 --> 4039.46] Don't -[4039.46 --> 4039.70] Want -[4039.70 --> 4039.80] To -[4039.80 --> 4040.14] Ever -[4048.50 --> 4048.54] Is -[4048.54 --> 4048.68] That -[4048.68 --> 4048.82] They -[4048.82 --> 4049.36] Settled -[4049.36 --> 4049.80] In -[4049.80 --> 4050.64] Goshen -[4050.64 --> 4051.28] Now -[4051.28 --> 4051.64] Goshen -[4051.64 --> 4051.94] Is -[4051.94 --> 4052.62] Hundreds -[4052.62 --> 4053.06] Of -[4053.06 --> 4053.48] Miles -[4053.48 --> 4054.04] From -[4054.04 --> 4054.90] Thebes -[4054.90 --> 4055.10] Which -[4055.10 --> 4055.26] Was -[4055.26 --> 4055.46] Then -[4055.46 --> 4055.88] Capital -[4055.88 --> 4056.22] Of -[4056.22 --> 4056.58] Egypt -[4056.58 --> 4056.84] And -[4056.84 --> 4056.92] So -[4056.92 --> 4057.10] There's -[4057.10 --> 4057.22] At -[4057.22 --> 4057.42] Least -[4057.42 --> 4057.58] A -[4057.58 --> 4058.20] Physical -[4058.20 --> 4058.68] Distance -[4058.68 --> 4058.88] From -[4058.88 --> 4059.26] Pharaoh -[4059.26 --> 4059.92] And -[4059.92 --> 4060.18] In -[4060.18 --> 4060.66] Goshen -[4060.66 --> 4060.90] The -[4060.90 --> 4061.30] Israelites -[4061.30 --> 4061.78] Weren't -[4061.78 --> 4062.16] Eking -[4062.16 --> 4062.54] Out -[4062.54 --> 4063.10] An -[4063.10 --> 4063.74] Existence -[4063.74 --> 4064.86] Right -[4064.86 --> 4064.96] They -[4064.96 --> 4065.24] Lived -[4065.24 --> 4065.42] With -[4065.42 --> 4065.54] A -[4065.54 --> 4065.84] Pretty -[4065.84 --> 4066.30] Relative -[4066.30 --> 4066.86] Comfort -[4066.86 --> 4067.18] There -[4067.18 --> 4067.60] And -[4067.60 --> 4067.76] For -[4067.76 --> 4069.18] Generations -[4069.18 --> 4069.42] They -[4069.42 --> 4070.04] Experienced -[4070.04 --> 4071.06] Prosperity -[4071.06 --> 4071.36] There -[4071.36 --> 4072.04] Right -[4072.04 --> 4072.30] They -[4072.30 --> 4072.54] Came -[4072.54 --> 4072.68] As -[4072.68 --> 4072.84] A -[4072.84 --> 4073.24] Family -[4073.24 --> 4073.86] Of -[4073.86 --> 4074.20] You -[4074.20 --> 4074.56] Mother -[4074.56 --> 4075.00] Father -[4075.00 --> 4075.28] And -[4078.50 --> 4078.62] Some -[4078.62 --> 4078.90] Two -[4078.90 --> 4079.30] Million -[4079.30 --> 4080.04] People -[4080.04 --> 4080.30] So -[4080.30 --> 4080.48] Yeah -[4080.48 --> 4080.86] It -[4080.86 --> 4081.02] Was -[4081.02 --> 4081.62] Slavery -[4081.62 --> 4081.88] But -[4081.88 --> 4083.00] For -[4083.00 --> 4083.16] The -[4083.16 --> 4083.44] Vast -[4083.44 --> 4083.94] Majority -[4083.94 --> 4084.06] Of -[4084.06 --> 4084.18] That -[4084.18 --> 4084.52] Time -[4084.52 --> 4084.66] It -[4084.66 --> 4084.78] Was -[4084.78 --> 4085.24] Good -[4085.24 --> 4085.46] And -[4085.46 --> 4085.60] They -[4085.60 --> 4086.32] Prospered -[4086.32 --> 4088.60] But -[4088.60 --> 4089.06] Also -[4089.06 --> 4090.88] Here's -[4090.88 --> 4090.98] Where -[4090.98 --> 4091.10] We -[4091.10 --> 4091.24] Can -[4091.24 --> 4091.70] Relate -[4091.70 --> 4093.38] The -[4093.38 --> 4094.06] Past -[4094.06 --> 4095.50] Is -[4095.50 --> 4096.16] Familiar -[4096.16 --> 4097.84] The -[4097.84 --> 4098.40] Past -[4098.40 --> 4098.68] Is -[4098.68 --> 4099.40] Finished -[4099.40 --> 4099.94] And -[4099.94 --> 4100.08] So -[4100.08 --> 4100.26] Yeah -[4100.26 --> 4100.46] It -[4100.46 --> 4100.58] Was -[4100.58 --> 4100.86] Hard -[4100.86 --> 4101.04] In -[4101.04 --> 4101.20] The -[4101.20 --> 4101.56] Moment -[4101.56 --> 4102.20] But -[4102.20 --> 4102.46] You've -[4102.46 --> 4102.70] Seen -[4102.70 --> 4102.84] It -[4102.84 --> 4103.22] Through -[4103.22 --> 4104.14] And -[4104.14 --> 4104.28] It's -[4104.28 --> 4104.42] Not -[4104.42 --> 4104.68] Hard -[4104.68 --> 4105.14] Anymore -[4105.14 --> 4106.14] Rose -[4106.14 --> 4106.54] Colored -[4106.54 --> 4107.22] Glasses -[4107.22 --> 4107.38] Are -[4107.38 --> 4107.78] Easy -[4107.78 --> 4107.94] To -[4107.94 --> 4108.10] Put -[4108.10 --> 4108.42] On -[4108.42 --> 4108.80] When -[4108.80 --> 4108.94] You're -[4108.94 --> 4109.18] Looking -[4109.18 --> 4109.88] Backwards -[4109.88 --> 4111.34] The -[4111.34 --> 4111.88] Future -[4111.88 --> 4113.68] Is -[4113.68 --> 4114.08] Unknown -[4114.08 --> 4116.00] And -[4116.00 --> 4116.16] The -[4116.16 --> 4116.68] Unknown -[4116.68 --> 4117.44] Is -[4117.44 --> 4118.06] Always -[4118.06 --> 4119.38] Harder -[4119.38 --> 4121.20] The -[4121.20 --> 4121.62] Unknown -[4121.62 --> 4121.94] Is -[4121.94 --> 4122.32] Always -[4122.32 --> 4123.50] Unfamiliar -[4123.50 --> 4126.22] And -[4126.22 --> 4126.38] Let's -[4126.38 --> 4126.56] Be -[4126.56 --> 4126.88] Fair -[4126.88 --> 4128.36] Because -[4128.36 --> 4128.52] We -[4128.52 --> 4128.68] All -[4128.68 --> 4128.90] Like -[4128.90 --> 4129.40] Familiar -[4129.40 --> 4131.04] We -[4131.04 --> 4131.26] All -[4131.26 --> 4131.48] Like -[4131.48 --> 4132.04] Comfortable -[4132.04 --> 4133.34] Right -[4133.34 --> 4134.00] Even -[4134.00 --> 4134.28] In -[4134.28 --> 4134.50] Fact -[4134.50 --> 4134.76] When -[4134.76 --> 4135.04] It's -[4135.04 --> 4135.84] Uncomfortable -[4135.84 --> 4136.48] We -[4136.48 --> 4136.70] Will -[4136.70 --> 4137.22] Choose -[4137.22 --> 4137.44] A -[4137.44 --> 4137.90] Particular -[4137.90 --> 4138.60] Discomfort -[4138.60 --> 4138.88] That -[4138.88 --> 4139.02] We -[4139.02 --> 4139.20] Have -[4139.20 --> 4139.52] Known -[4139.52 --> 4139.80] For -[4139.80 --> 4140.06] A -[4140.06 --> 4140.50] While -[4140.50 --> 4141.52] Over -[4141.52 --> 4141.72] The -[4141.72 --> 4142.50] Possibility -[4142.50 --> 4143.28] Of -[4143.28 --> 4143.42] A -[4143.42 --> 4143.74] Comfort -[4143.74 --> 4143.94] We -[4143.94 --> 4144.18] Don't -[4144.18 --> 4144.34] Yet -[4144.34 --> 4144.56] Know -[4144.56 --> 4146.82] That's -[4146.82 --> 4146.96] How -[4146.96 --> 4147.26] People -[4147.26 --> 4147.70] Work -[4147.70 --> 4149.00] Right -[4149.00 --> 4149.20] We -[4149.20 --> 4149.42] Will -[4149.42 --> 4150.06] Choose -[4150.06 --> 4150.54] Something -[4150.54 --> 4151.30] Familiar -[4151.30 --> 4151.74] Over -[4151.74 --> 4152.20] Something -[4152.20 --> 4153.00] Unknown -[4153.00 --> 4153.44] Because -[4153.44 --> 4153.76] It's -[4153.76 --> 4154.28] More -[4154.28 --> 4154.88] Comfortable -[4154.88 --> 4155.28] Even -[4155.28 --> 4155.56] If -[4155.56 --> 4155.74] We -[4155.74 --> 4155.96] Know -[4155.96 --> 4156.22] It's -[4156.22 --> 4156.42] Not -[4156.42 --> 4156.64] The -[4156.64 --> 4156.90] Best -[4156.90 --> 4157.24] Thing -[4157.24 --> 4157.64] For -[4157.64 --> 4157.96] Us -[4157.96 --> 4160.42] That's -[4160.42 --> 4160.50] How -[4160.50 --> 4160.74] People -[4160.74 --> 4161.12] Work -[4161.12 --> 4162.08] Especially -[4162.08 --> 4163.38] Especially -[4163.38 --> 4164.82] When -[4164.82 --> 4165.00] We -[4165.00 --> 4165.34] Forget -[4165.34 --> 4165.60] Who -[4165.60 --> 4165.80] God -[4165.80 --> 4166.02] Says -[4166.02 --> 4166.18] We -[4166.18 --> 4166.40] Are -[4166.40 --> 4167.68] Especially -[4167.68 --> 4168.00] When -[4168.00 --> 4168.16] We -[4168.16 --> 4168.50] Forget -[4168.50 --> 4169.04] What -[4169.04 --> 4169.22] God -[4169.22 --> 4169.38] Has -[4169.38 --> 4169.64] Done -[4169.64 --> 4171.34] Right -[4171.34 --> 4171.44] And -[4171.44 --> 4171.64] God -[4171.64 --> 4171.98] Sees -[4171.98 --> 4172.14] The -[4172.14 --> 4172.36] People -[4172.36 --> 4172.62] Doing -[4172.62 --> 4172.82] This -[4172.82 --> 4172.96] And -[4172.96 --> 4173.88] I -[4173.88 --> 4174.04] Mean -[4174.04 --> 4174.38] He -[4174.38 --> 4175.72] Quite -[4175.72 --> 4175.98] Simply -[4175.98 --> 4176.18] He -[4176.18 --> 4176.36] Ain't -[4176.36 --> 4176.50] Going -[4176.50 --> 4176.58] To -[4176.58 --> 4176.82] Have -[4176.82 --> 4176.96] It -[4176.96 --> 4177.30] In -[4177.30 --> 4177.52] Chapter -[4177.52 --> 4178.04] 14 -[4178.04 --> 4179.00] Verse -[4179.00 --> 4179.46] 11 -[4179.46 --> 4200.74] God -[4200.74 --> 4200.96] Is -[4200.96 --> 4201.18] Saying -[4201.18 --> 4201.38] Have -[4201.38 --> 4201.48] I -[4201.48 --> 4201.62] Not -[4201.62 --> 4202.04] Proven -[4202.04 --> 4202.52] Myself -[4202.52 --> 4202.70] To -[4202.70 --> 4202.86] You -[4202.86 --> 4203.60] Are -[4203.60 --> 4203.70] You -[4203.70 --> 4203.84] Not -[4203.84 --> 4204.54] Convinced -[4204.54 --> 4205.00] Are -[4205.00 --> 4205.12] You -[4205.12 --> 4205.28] Not -[4205.28 --> 4206.20] Satisfied -[4206.20 --> 4206.64] Have -[4206.64 --> 4206.74] You -[4206.74 --> 4206.90] Not -[4206.90 --> 4207.38] Seen -[4207.38 --> 4207.64] Me -[4207.64 --> 4208.12] Raise -[4208.12 --> 4208.34] You -[4208.34 --> 4208.58] Up -[4208.58 --> 4208.84] From -[4208.84 --> 4209.02] The -[4209.02 --> 4209.54] Pit -[4209.54 --> 4209.82] Of -[4209.82 --> 4210.50] Despair -[4210.50 --> 4210.78] And -[4210.78 --> 4211.42] Destruction -[4211.42 --> 4211.90] I -[4211.90 --> 4212.04] Have -[4212.04 --> 4212.36] Taken -[4212.36 --> 4212.50] You -[4212.50 --> 4212.72] From -[4212.72 --> 4213.10] Nothing -[4213.10 --> 4213.40] And -[4213.40 --> 4213.72] Turned -[4213.72 --> 4213.84] You -[4213.84 --> 4214.02] Into -[4214.02 --> 4214.20] A -[4214.20 --> 4214.46] Nation -[4214.46 --> 4214.64] Of -[4214.64 --> 4214.86] Two -[4214.86 --> 4215.10] Million -[4215.10 --> 4215.52] Strong -[4215.52 --> 4215.96] What -[4215.96 --> 4216.20] More -[4216.20 --> 4216.74] Evidence -[4216.74 --> 4216.98] Do -[4216.98 --> 4217.14] You -[4217.14 --> 4217.54] Need -[4217.54 --> 4219.24] No -[4219.24 --> 4219.72] Longer -[4219.72 --> 4220.08] Are -[4220.08 --> 4220.20] They -[4220.20 --> 4220.46] Just -[4220.46 --> 4220.68] On -[4220.68 --> 4220.84] The -[4220.84 --> 4221.42] Precipice -[4221.42 --> 4221.62] Of -[4221.62 --> 4222.10] Entering -[4222.10 --> 4222.28] The -[4222.28 --> 4222.60] Land -[4222.60 --> 4222.78] The -[4222.78 --> 4223.18] Israelites -[4223.18 --> 4223.44] Are -[4223.44 --> 4223.70] Now -[4223.70 --> 4223.92] On -[4223.92 --> 4224.06] The -[4224.06 --> 4224.58] Precipice -[4224.58 --> 4224.98] Of -[4224.98 --> 4225.62] Disaster -[4225.62 --> 4226.10] And -[4226.10 --> 4226.74] Destruction -[4226.74 --> 4227.30] Because -[4227.30 --> 4227.48] Of -[4227.48 --> 4227.62] Their -[4227.62 --> 4228.26] Unfaithfulness -[4228.26 --> 4229.76] And -[4229.76 --> 4229.90] For -[4229.90 --> 4230.14] Some -[4230.14 --> 4230.32] Of -[4230.32 --> 4230.72] Us -[4230.72 --> 4231.24] What -[4231.24 --> 4231.76] Israel -[4231.76 --> 4232.18] Does -[4232.18 --> 4232.42] In -[4232.42 --> 4232.66] This -[4232.66 --> 4232.96] Moment -[4232.96 --> 4233.22] Is -[4233.22 --> 4233.88] Exactly -[4238.84 --> 4239.00] Taking -[4239.00 --> 4239.24] The -[4239.24 --> 4239.52] Leap -[4239.52 --> 4239.86] Into -[4239.86 --> 4240.06] The -[4240.06 --> 4240.50] Unknown -[4240.50 --> 4241.18] Or -[4241.18 --> 4241.62] Turning -[4241.62 --> 4242.04] Back -[4242.04 --> 4242.26] From -[4242.26 --> 4242.42] The -[4242.42 --> 4243.00] Precipice -[4243.00 --> 4243.56] Many -[4243.56 --> 4244.00] Of -[4244.00 --> 4244.44] Us -[4244.44 --> 4244.72] Maybe -[4244.72 --> 4245.18] Some -[4245.18 --> 4245.30] Of -[4245.30 --> 4245.40] You -[4245.40 --> 4245.74] Here -[4245.74 --> 4246.22] Tonight -[4246.22 --> 4246.96] Follow -[4246.96 --> 4247.22] The -[4247.22 --> 4247.44] Lead -[4247.44 --> 4247.58] Of -[4247.58 --> 4247.94] Israel -[4247.94 --> 4248.62] And -[4248.62 --> 4248.76] Go -[4248.76 --> 4249.04] Back -[4249.04 --> 4249.22] To -[4249.22 --> 4249.34] The -[4249.34 --> 4249.84] Comfortable -[4249.84 --> 4251.54] Prefer -[4251.54 --> 4252.06] The -[4252.06 --> 4252.40] Same -[4252.40 --> 4252.82] Old -[4252.82 --> 4253.86] Same -[4253.86 --> 4254.20] Old -[4254.20 --> 4255.58] And -[4255.58 --> 4255.76] Even -[4255.76 --> 4256.16] Tonight -[4256.16 --> 4256.40] As -[4256.40 --> 4256.54] We -[4256.54 --> 4256.74] Look -[4256.74 --> 4257.10] Back -[4257.10 --> 4257.30] On -[4257.30 --> 4257.56] Another -[4257.56 --> 4257.84] Year -[4257.84 --> 4258.34] Completed -[4258.34 --> 4258.72] A -[4258.72 --> 4259.14] Year -[4259.14 --> 4259.32] That -[4259.32 --> 4259.86] It -[4259.86 --> 4260.56] Was -[4260.56 --> 4260.88] Hard -[4260.88 --> 4261.08] And -[4261.08 --> 4261.16] It -[4261.16 --> 4261.24] Was -[4261.24 --> 4261.40] Full -[4261.40 --> 4261.52] Of -[4261.52 --> 4261.98] Challenges -[4261.98 --> 4262.22] And -[4262.22 --> 4262.38] Yet -[4262.38 --> 4262.58] As -[4262.58 --> 4262.74] We -[4262.74 --> 4262.94] Saw -[4262.94 --> 4263.08] In -[4263.08 --> 4263.20] The -[4263.20 --> 4263.48] Slides -[4263.48 --> 4263.58] Show -[4263.58 --> 4263.80] Was -[4263.80 --> 4264.28] Good -[4264.28 --> 4264.52] And -[4264.52 --> 4264.62] There -[4264.62 --> 4264.74] Was -[4264.74 --> 4265.04] Lots -[4265.04 --> 4265.24] To -[4265.24 --> 4265.84] Celebrate -[4265.84 --> 4267.04] Even -[4267.04 --> 4267.28] As -[4267.28 --> 4267.42] We -[4267.42 --> 4267.62] Look -[4267.62 --> 4267.88] Back -[4267.88 --> 4268.06] On -[4268.06 --> 4268.22] That -[4268.22 --> 4268.50] Know -[4268.50 --> 4268.86] This -[4268.86 --> 4270.92] The -[4270.92 --> 4271.30] Looking -[4271.30 --> 4271.92] Back -[4271.92 --> 4273.14] That -[4273.14 --> 4273.56] God -[4273.56 --> 4273.90] Gets -[4273.90 --> 4274.14] His -[4274.14 --> 4274.56] People -[4274.56 --> 4274.82] To -[4274.82 --> 4275.20] Do -[4275.20 --> 4275.76] Is -[4275.76 --> 4276.70] Always -[4276.70 --> 4277.84] Always -[4277.84 --> 4278.76] So -[4278.76 --> 4279.02] That -[4279.02 --> 4279.18] They -[4279.18 --> 4279.40] Can -[4279.40 --> 4279.72] Step -[4279.72 --> 4280.92] Confidently -[4280.92 --> 4281.44] And -[4281.44 --> 4281.68] With -[4281.68 --> 4282.34] Boldness -[4282.34 --> 4283.04] Into -[4283.04 --> 4283.32] The -[4283.32 --> 4283.70] Future -[4283.70 --> 4286.68] Nostalgia -[4286.68 --> 4287.06] For -[4287.06 --> 4287.24] The -[4287.24 --> 4287.86] Past -[4287.86 --> 4288.80] Kills -[4288.80 --> 4289.60] Confidence -[4289.60 --> 4290.06] For -[4290.06 --> 4290.20] The -[4290.20 --> 4290.56] Future -[4290.56 --> 4292.42] And -[4292.42 --> 4292.76] Even -[4292.76 --> 4292.96] Our -[4292.96 --> 4293.26] Christian -[4293.80 --> 4296.32] Faith -[4296.32 --> 4296.54] Our -[4296.54 --> 4296.88] Christian -[4296.88 --> 4297.20] Faith -[4297.20 --> 4297.38] Is -[4297.38 --> 4297.54] An -[4297.54 --> 4297.92] Ancient -[4297.92 --> 4298.72] Tradition -[4298.72 --> 4298.92] And -[4298.92 --> 4299.02] It -[4299.02 --> 4299.20] Is -[4299.20 --> 4299.54] Rooted -[4299.54 --> 4300.00] In -[4300.00 --> 4300.48] History -[4300.48 --> 4300.72] But -[4300.72 --> 4301.14] History -[4301.14 --> 4301.42] Too -[4301.42 --> 4301.60] Is -[4301.60 --> 4301.84] Always -[4301.84 --> 4302.26] Moving -[4302.26 --> 4303.06] Forward -[4303.06 --> 4303.96] Tradition -[4303.96 --> 4305.20] Properly -[4305.20 --> 4305.66] Understood -[4305.66 --> 4306.06] And -[4306.06 --> 4306.28] Lived -[4306.28 --> 4306.56] Out -[4306.56 --> 4306.78] Of -[4306.78 --> 4307.04] Is -[4307.04 --> 4307.24] The -[4307.24 --> 4307.64] Firm -[4307.64 --> 4308.34] Foundation -[4308.34 --> 4308.72] On -[4308.72 --> 4308.92] Which -[4308.92 --> 4309.12] We -[4309.12 --> 4309.30] Can -[4309.30 --> 4310.30] Confidently -[4310.30 --> 4310.60] Step -[4310.60 --> 4311.06] Forward -[4311.06 --> 4311.74] Into -[4311.74 --> 4311.96] The -[4311.96 --> 4312.34] Future -[4312.34 --> 4312.84] Right -[4312.84 --> 4313.02] An -[4313.02 --> 4313.42] Ancient -[4313.42 --> 4313.76] Faith -[4313.76 --> 4313.96] For -[4313.96 --> 4314.12] A -[4314.12 --> 4314.26] New -[4314.26 --> 4314.54] Day -[4314.54 --> 4315.80] And -[4315.80 --> 4315.96] So -[4315.96 --> 4316.52] Don't -[4316.52 --> 4316.72] Get -[4316.72 --> 4317.20] Stuck -[4317.20 --> 4317.64] Looking -[4317.64 --> 4318.56] Backwards -[4318.56 --> 4319.18] That's -[4319.18 --> 4319.30] How -[4319.30 --> 4319.46] You -[4319.46 --> 4319.78] Become -[4319.78 --> 4320.58] Grasshoppers -[4320.58 --> 4322.02] To -[4322.02 --> 4322.22] Use -[4322.22 --> 4322.44] The -[4322.44 --> 4322.86] Image -[4322.86 --> 4323.48] From -[4323.48 --> 4323.62] The -[4323.62 --> 4323.96] Text -[4323.96 --> 4324.54] Right -[4324.54 --> 4324.66] The -[4324.66 --> 4324.88] People -[4324.88 --> 4325.10] Need -[4325.10 --> 4325.22] A -[4325.22 --> 4325.76] Reminder -[4325.76 --> 4326.40] And -[4326.40 --> 4326.78] We -[4326.78 --> 4327.42] Need -[4327.42 --> 4327.88] Another -[4327.88 --> 4328.94] Reminder -[4328.94 --> 4330.22] So -[4330.22 --> 4330.52] Moses -[4330.52 --> 4331.36] Says -[4331.36 --> 4331.54] To -[4331.54 --> 4331.96] God -[4331.96 --> 4332.42] Right -[4332.42 --> 4332.90] Instead -[4332.90 --> 4333.18] Of -[4333.18 --> 4333.88] Destroying -[4333.88 --> 4334.30] These -[4334.30 --> 4334.92] Fickle -[4334.92 --> 4335.22] People -[4335.22 --> 4335.50] This -[4335.50 --> 4335.66] Is -[4335.66 --> 4335.82] Your -[4335.82 --> 4336.18] Chance -[4336.18 --> 4336.36] To -[4336.36 --> 4336.56] Show -[4336.56 --> 4336.76] Them -[4336.76 --> 4337.04] Even -[4337.04 --> 4337.36] More -[4337.36 --> 4337.88] Evidence -[4337.88 --> 4339.02] This -[4339.02 --> 4339.04] This -[4339.04 --> 4339.16] Is -[4339.16 --> 4339.76] To -[4339.76 --> 4339.94] Show -[4339.94 --> 4340.06] To -[4340.06 --> 4340.14] Show -[4340.14 --> 4340.18] Not -[4340.18 --> 4340.42] Only -[4340.42 --> 4340.84] Them -[4340.84 --> 4341.28] But -[4341.28 --> 4341.58] Also -[4341.58 --> 4341.78] The -[4341.78 --> 4342.24] Egyptians -[4342.24 --> 4342.60] And -[4342.60 --> 4342.76] The -[4342.76 --> 4343.28] Canaanites -[4343.28 --> 4343.40] And -[4343.40 --> 4343.54] All -[4343.54 --> 4343.66] The -[4343.66 --> 4343.88] People -[4343.88 --> 4344.12] Around -[4344.12 --> 4344.24] The -[4344.24 --> 4344.42] World -[4344.42 --> 4344.96] Who -[4344.96 --> 4345.18] You -[4345.18 --> 4345.54] Are -[4345.54 --> 4346.72] Right -[4346.72 --> 4347.00] Because -[4347.00 --> 4347.44] Moses -[4347.44 --> 4347.96] Knows -[4347.96 --> 4348.16] That -[4348.16 --> 4348.30] The -[4348.30 --> 4348.54] Lord -[4348.54 --> 4348.74] Is -[4348.74 --> 4349.10] Slow -[4349.10 --> 4349.34] To -[4349.34 --> 4349.72] Anger -[4349.72 --> 4350.20] Abounding -[4350.20 --> 4350.36] In -[4350.36 --> 4350.58] Love -[4350.58 --> 4350.72] And -[4350.72 --> 4351.10] Forgiving -[4351.10 --> 4351.56] Sin -[4351.56 --> 4352.12] And -[4352.12 --> 4352.70] Rebellion -[4352.70 --> 4354.86] And -[4354.86 --> 4355.28] That -[4355.28 --> 4357.20] In -[4357.20 --> 4357.38] The -[4357.38 --> 4357.86] Story -[4357.86 --> 4358.72] Is -[4358.72 --> 4358.86] The -[4358.86 --> 4359.32] Crux -[4359.32 --> 4360.30] Of -[4360.30 --> 4360.42] The -[4360.42 --> 4360.74] Matter -[4360.74 --> 4361.74] Right -[4361.74 --> 4362.20] All -[4362.20 --> 4362.74] Along -[4362.74 --> 4363.18] God -[4363.18 --> 4363.64] Wants -[4363.64 --> 4363.92] It -[4363.92 --> 4364.52] Known -[4364.52 --> 4364.90] In -[4364.90 --> 4365.62] Egypt -[4365.62 --> 4365.90] And -[4365.90 --> 4366.02] In -[4366.02 --> 4366.58] Canaan -[4366.58 --> 4367.02] And -[4367.02 --> 4367.32] Throughout -[4367.32 --> 4367.68] All -[4367.68 --> 4367.86] The -[4367.86 --> 4368.32] Israelites -[4368.32 --> 4368.56] That -[4368.56 --> 4368.92] He -[4368.92 --> 4369.42] Is -[4369.42 --> 4370.26] Compassionate -[4370.26 --> 4370.68] And -[4370.68 --> 4371.42] Gracious -[4371.42 --> 4371.84] That -[4371.84 --> 4372.06] He -[4372.06 --> 4372.28] Is -[4372.28 --> 4372.40] A -[4372.40 --> 4372.62] God -[4372.62 --> 4372.78] Who -[4372.78 --> 4372.94] Is -[4372.94 --> 4373.32] Slow -[4373.32 --> 4373.62] To -[4373.62 --> 4374.10] Anger -[4374.10 --> 4374.54] And -[4374.54 --> 4375.10] Abounding -[4375.10 --> 4375.34] In -[4375.34 --> 4375.66] Love -[4375.66 --> 4376.06] And -[4376.06 --> 4376.42] Moses -[4376.42 --> 4376.76] And -[4376.76 --> 4377.38] Aaron -[4377.38 --> 4377.64] And -[4377.64 --> 4378.04] Joshua -[4378.04 --> 4378.30] And -[4378.30 --> 4378.58] Caleb -[4378.58 --> 4378.84] They -[4378.84 --> 4379.16] Already -[4379.16 --> 4379.42] Know -[4379.42 --> 4379.78] This -[4379.78 --> 4380.52] They -[4380.52 --> 4380.78] Have -[4380.78 --> 4380.96] The -[4380.96 --> 4381.26] Faith -[4381.26 --> 4381.44] That -[4381.44 --> 4381.70] God -[4381.70 --> 4381.88] Will -[4381.88 --> 4382.54] Provide -[4382.54 --> 4382.72] For -[4382.72 --> 4382.84] Them -[4382.84 --> 4382.96] That -[4382.96 --> 4383.04] He -[4383.04 --> 4383.18] Has -[4383.18 --> 4383.60] Proved -[4383.60 --> 4383.72] It -[4383.72 --> 4383.82] To -[4383.82 --> 4383.96] Them -[4383.96 --> 4384.34] Time -[4384.34 --> 4384.52] And -[4384.52 --> 4385.44] Again -[4385.44 --> 4385.84] And -[4385.84 --> 4386.00] In -[4386.00 --> 4386.44] Chapter -[4386.44 --> 4387.04] 14 -[4387.04 --> 4388.10] Verse -[4388.10 --> 4388.50] 9 -[4388.50 --> 4389.72] Caleb -[4389.72 --> 4390.22] Says -[4390.22 --> 4391.76] Caleb -[4391.76 --> 4392.08] Says -[4392.08 --> 4393.18] Do -[4393.18 --> 4393.44] Not -[4393.44 --> 4393.64] Be -[4393.64 --> 4394.08] Afraid -[4394.08 --> 4394.30] Of -[4394.30 --> 4394.42] The -[4394.42 --> 4394.70] People -[4394.70 --> 4394.94] Of -[4394.94 --> 4395.10] The -[4395.10 --> 4395.40] Land -[4395.40 --> 4395.78] Because -[4395.78 --> 4396.16] We -[4396.16 --> 4396.78] Will -[4396.78 --> 4397.44] Devour -[4397.44 --> 4398.00] Them -[4398.00 --> 4401.18] Their -[4401.18 --> 4401.62] Protection -[4401.62 --> 4401.88] Is -[4401.88 --> 4402.26] Gone -[4402.26 --> 4402.96] But -[4402.96 --> 4403.08] The -[4403.08 --> 4403.28] Lord -[4403.28 --> 4403.48] Is -[4403.48 --> 4403.68] With -[4403.68 --> 4403.98] Us -[4403.98 --> 4404.62] Do -[4404.62 --> 4404.94] Not -[4404.94 --> 4405.64] Be -[4405.64 --> 4406.08] Afraid -[4406.08 --> 4407.80] In -[4407.80 --> 4408.18] Hebrew -[4408.18 --> 4408.62] It -[4408.62 --> 4409.16] Literally -[4409.16 --> 4409.66] Reads -[4409.66 --> 4410.82] They -[4410.82 --> 4411.14] Are -[4411.14 --> 4411.42] No -[4411.42 --> 4411.72] More -[4411.72 --> 4411.96] Than -[4411.96 --> 4412.40] Bread -[4412.40 --> 4412.84] To -[4412.84 --> 4413.22] Us -[4413.22 --> 4413.88] That -[4413.88 --> 4414.02] Is -[4414.02 --> 4414.20] The -[4414.20 --> 4414.52] The -[4414.52 --> 4416.06] Phrase -[4416.06 --> 4416.20] That -[4416.20 --> 4416.30] Is -[4416.30 --> 4416.78] Translated -[4416.78 --> 4416.98] We -[4416.98 --> 4417.12] Will -[4417.12 --> 4417.50] Devour -[4417.50 --> 4417.64] Them -[4417.64 --> 4417.80] They -[4417.80 --> 4417.88] Are -[4417.88 --> 4418.02] No -[4418.02 --> 4418.20] More -[4418.20 --> 4418.32] Than -[4418.32 --> 4418.50] Bread -[4418.50 --> 4418.64] To -[4418.64 --> 4418.76] Us -[4418.76 --> 4418.92] We -[4418.92 --> 4419.14] Might -[4419.14 --> 4419.84] Translate -[4419.84 --> 4420.04] That -[4420.04 --> 4420.66] Idiomatically -[4420.66 --> 4420.88] And -[4420.88 --> 4421.00] Say -[4421.00 --> 4421.50] We -[4421.50 --> 4421.78] Eat -[4421.78 --> 4422.38] Canaanites -[4422.38 --> 4422.54] For -[4422.54 --> 4423.04] Breakfast -[4423.04 --> 4424.30] That's -[4424.30 --> 4424.42] What -[4424.42 --> 4424.70] Caleb -[4424.70 --> 4424.88] Is -[4424.88 --> 4425.14] Saying -[4425.14 --> 4426.14] For -[4426.14 --> 4426.50] Them -[4426.50 --> 4426.80] It's -[4426.80 --> 4426.92] A -[4426.92 --> 4427.16] Matter -[4427.16 --> 4427.38] Of -[4427.38 --> 4427.88] Staying -[4427.88 --> 4428.08] In -[4428.08 --> 4428.46] Line -[4428.46 --> 4428.94] With -[4428.94 --> 4429.10] The -[4429.10 --> 4429.58] Evidence -[4429.58 --> 4429.80] That -[4429.80 --> 4430.06] God -[4430.06 --> 4430.22] Has -[4430.22 --> 4430.54] Already -[4430.54 --> 4430.98] Revealed -[4430.98 --> 4431.14] To -[4431.14 --> 4431.32] Them -[4431.32 --> 4432.24] For -[4432.24 --> 4432.46] Them -[4432.46 --> 4432.66] It's -[4432.66 --> 4432.74] A -[4432.74 --> 4432.88] Matter -[4432.88 --> 4433.08] Of -[4433.08 --> 4433.36] Faith -[4433.36 --> 4434.04] Confirmed -[4434.04 --> 4434.48] Time -[4434.48 --> 4434.72] And -[4434.72 --> 4435.04] Time -[4435.04 --> 4435.26] And -[4435.26 --> 4435.56] Time -[4435.56 --> 4436.10] Again -[4436.10 --> 4436.34] And -[4436.34 --> 4436.64] Because -[4436.64 --> 4436.84] Of -[4436.84 --> 4437.00] That -[4437.00 --> 4437.36] Faith -[4437.36 --> 4437.84] They -[4437.84 --> 4437.98] Are -[4437.98 --> 4438.20] Ready -[4438.20 --> 4438.38] To -[4438.38 --> 4438.58] Take -[4438.58 --> 4438.72] The -[4438.72 --> 4439.00] Leap -[4439.00 --> 4440.68] And -[4440.68 --> 4440.84] So -[4440.84 --> 4441.20] Tonight -[4441.20 --> 4441.56] If -[4441.56 --> 4441.72] You -[4441.72 --> 4441.90] Are -[4441.90 --> 4443.12] If -[4443.12 --> 4443.22] You -[4443.22 --> 4443.48] Find -[4443.48 --> 4443.82] Yourself -[4443.82 --> 4444.26] Standing -[4444.26 --> 4445.16] On -[4445.16 --> 4445.30] The -[4445.30 --> 4446.00] Precipice -[4446.00 --> 4446.46] Of -[4446.46 --> 4446.56] A -[4446.56 --> 4447.02] Decision -[4447.02 --> 4447.30] About -[4447.30 --> 4447.54] Whether -[4447.54 --> 4447.76] To -[4447.76 --> 4448.10] Follow -[4448.10 --> 4448.76] God -[4448.76 --> 4448.98] Whether -[4448.98 --> 4449.16] It's -[4449.16 --> 4449.30] To -[4449.30 --> 4449.50] Follow -[4449.50 --> 4449.66] Him -[4449.66 --> 4449.82] For -[4449.82 --> 4449.96] The -[4449.96 --> 4450.22] First -[4450.22 --> 4450.46] Time -[4450.46 --> 4450.60] Or -[4450.60 --> 4450.78] Whether -[4450.78 --> 4450.98] It's -[4450.98 --> 4451.10] To -[4451.10 --> 4451.34] Follow -[4451.34 --> 4451.54] Him -[4451.54 --> 4451.74] Into -[4451.74 --> 4452.04] Something -[4452.04 --> 4452.42] New -[4452.42 --> 4452.96] Maybe -[4452.96 --> 4453.24] All -[4453.24 --> 4453.44] Year -[4453.44 --> 4453.72] Long -[4453.72 --> 4453.98] God -[4453.98 --> 4454.12] Has -[4454.12 --> 4454.26] Been -[4454.26 --> 4454.56] Tugging -[4454.56 --> 4454.70] On -[4454.70 --> 4454.80] Your -[4454.80 --> 4455.06] Mind -[4455.06 --> 4455.48] I -[4455.48 --> 4455.66] Want -[4455.66 --> 4455.80] You -[4455.80 --> 4456.12] Here -[4456.12 --> 4456.84] I'm -[4456.84 --> 4457.08] Calling -[4457.08 --> 4457.24] You -[4457.24 --> 4457.44] Into -[4457.44 --> 4457.82] This -[4457.82 --> 4458.48] Maybe -[4458.48 --> 4458.92] God -[4458.92 --> 4459.06] Has -[4459.06 --> 4459.20] Been -[4459.20 --> 4459.50] Putting -[4459.50 --> 4459.72] On -[4459.72 --> 4459.84] Your -[4459.84 --> 4460.10] Mind -[4460.10 --> 4460.24] You -[4460.24 --> 4469.26] You -[4469.26 --> 4470.24] Know -[4470.24 --> 4471.32] What -[4471.32 --> 4471.82] I -[4471.82 --> 4472.44] Encourage -[4472.44 --> 4472.66] You -[4472.66 --> 4472.94] Take -[4472.94 --> 4473.14] The -[4473.14 --> 4473.42] Leap -[4473.42 --> 4474.64] Jump -[4474.64 --> 4475.08] Into -[4475.08 --> 4475.64] His -[4475.64 --> 4475.98] Ever -[4475.98 --> 4476.66] Loving -[4476.66 --> 4477.48] Arms -[4477.48 --> 4479.10] And -[4479.10 --> 4479.30] If -[4479.30 --> 4480.36] If -[4480.36 --> 4480.48] At -[4480.48 --> 4480.60] The -[4480.60 --> 4480.78] End -[4480.78 --> 4480.88] Of -[4480.88 --> 4480.98] The -[4480.98 --> 4481.24] Year -[4481.24 --> 4481.44] You -[4481.44 --> 4481.76] Find -[4481.76 --> 4482.16] Yourself -[4482.16 --> 4482.40] Now -[4482.40 --> 4482.88] Like -[4482.88 --> 4483.30] Most -[4483.30 --> 4483.56] Of -[4483.56 --> 4483.82] Us -[4483.82 --> 4484.16] Looking -[4484.16 --> 4484.76] Back -[4484.76 --> 4485.78] It's -[4485.78 --> 4486.16] Time -[4486.16 --> 4486.40] To -[4486.40 --> 4486.78] Trust -[4486.78 --> 4487.12] God -[4487.12 --> 4487.52] Enough -[4487.52 --> 4487.74] To -[4487.74 --> 4487.98] Turn -[4487.98 --> 4488.40] Around -[4488.40 --> 4488.90] And -[4488.90 --> 4489.06] To -[4489.06 --> 4489.26] Step -[4489.26 --> 4490.16] Confidently -[4490.16 --> 4490.76] Into -[4490.76 --> 4490.98] The -[4490.98 --> 4491.32] Future -[4491.32 --> 4492.90] Look -[4492.90 --> 4493.02] At -[4493.02 --> 4493.16] All -[4493.16 --> 4493.30] The -[4493.30 --> 4493.56] Things -[4493.56 --> 4493.74] That -[4493.74 --> 4493.90] God -[4493.90 --> 4494.04] Has -[4494.04 --> 4494.22] Done -[4494.22 --> 4494.42] For -[4494.42 --> 4494.68] Us -[4494.68 --> 4495.18] This -[4495.18 --> 4495.50] Past -[4495.50 --> 4495.70] Year -[4495.70 --> 4495.86] And -[4495.86 --> 4496.20] Like -[4496.20 --> 4496.34] We -[4496.34 --> 4496.48] Said -[4496.48 --> 4496.64] That -[4496.64 --> 4496.94] Video -[4496.94 --> 4497.20] Is -[4497.20 --> 4497.34] An -[4497.34 --> 4497.74] Excellent -[4497.74 --> 4498.52] Reminder -[4498.52 --> 4498.90] But -[4498.90 --> 4499.02] Now -[4499.02 --> 4499.32] Ask -[4499.32 --> 4499.78] Yourselves -[4499.78 --> 4500.18] Based -[4500.18 --> 4500.44] On -[4500.44 --> 4500.70] That -[4500.70 --> 4502.20] What -[4502.20 --> 4502.58] Will -[4502.58 --> 4502.90] God -[4502.90 --> 4503.28] Do -[4503.28 --> 4504.18] This -[4504.18 --> 4504.44] Next -[4504.44 --> 4504.68] Year -[4504.68 --> 4505.62] What -[4505.62 --> 4505.84] Will -[4505.84 --> 4506.04] God -[4506.04 --> 4506.56] Accomplish -[4506.56 --> 4506.78] In -[4506.78 --> 4506.96] You -[4506.96 --> 4507.18] And -[4507.18 --> 4507.50] Through -[4507.50 --> 4507.84] You -[4507.84 --> 4508.36] This -[4508.36 --> 4508.64] Coming -[4508.64 --> 4508.88] Year -[4508.88 --> 4509.22] And -[4509.22 --> 4509.38] How -[4509.38 --> 4509.54] Will -[4509.54 --> 4509.74] You -[4509.74 --> 4510.04] Like -[4510.04 --> 4510.42] Caleb -[4510.42 --> 4510.90] And -[4510.90 --> 4511.12] Like -[4511.12 --> 4511.48] Joshua -[4511.48 --> 4511.88] Give -[4511.88 --> 4512.36] Yourself -[4512.36 --> 4512.98] Fully -[4512.98 --> 4513.94] To -[4513.94 --> 4514.12] It -[4514.12 --> 4514.84] How -[4514.84 --> 4515.06] Will -[4515.06 --> 4515.16] You -[4515.16 --> 4515.40] Take -[4515.40 --> 4515.58] The -[4520.16 --> 4521.26] In -[4521.26 --> 4521.36] The -[4521.36 --> 4521.76] Past -[4521.76 --> 4523.34] I'm -[4523.34 --> 4523.40] Going -[4523.40 --> 4523.48] To -[4523.48 --> 4523.66] End -[4523.66 --> 4523.96] With -[4523.96 --> 4524.16] These -[4524.16 --> 4524.44] Two -[4524.44 --> 4525.44] Quick -[4525.44 --> 4526.08] Words -[4526.08 --> 4528.48] Sometimes -[4528.48 --> 4529.62] People -[4529.62 --> 4530.64] Will -[4530.64 --> 4531.02] Hear -[4531.02 --> 4531.56] This -[4531.56 --> 4532.12] Kind -[4532.12 --> 4532.32] Of -[4532.32 --> 4532.74] Message -[4532.74 --> 4533.20] Right -[4533.20 --> 4533.36] The -[4533.36 --> 4533.64] Message -[4533.64 --> 4533.86] That's -[4533.86 --> 4534.02] About -[4534.02 --> 4534.32] Looking -[4534.32 --> 4534.80] Forward -[4534.80 --> 4535.14] That's -[4535.14 --> 4535.34] About -[4535.34 --> 4536.36] Leadership -[4536.36 --> 4536.92] And -[4536.92 --> 4537.76] Stepping -[4537.76 --> 4538.70] Confidently -[4538.70 --> 4539.24] Into -[4539.24 --> 4539.48] An -[4539.48 --> 4539.86] Unknown -[4539.86 --> 4540.40] Future -[4540.40 --> 4541.24] Sometimes -[4541.24 --> 4542.06] People -[4542.06 --> 4542.36] Will -[4542.36 --> 4542.72] Say -[4542.72 --> 4543.66] You -[4543.66 --> 4543.78] Know -[4543.78 --> 4543.96] What -[4543.96 --> 4544.36] That's -[4544.36 --> 4544.74] Really -[4544.74 --> 4545.08] A -[4545.08 --> 4545.44] Young -[4545.44 --> 4546.30] Person's -[4546.30 --> 4546.88] Game -[4546.88 --> 4548.46] I'm -[4548.46 --> 4548.54] Going -[4548.54 --> 4548.64] To -[4548.64 --> 4548.84] Sit -[4548.84 --> 4549.24] Back -[4549.24 --> 4550.26] And -[4550.26 --> 4550.40] I'm -[4550.40 --> 4550.48] Going -[4550.48 --> 4550.54] To -[4550.54 --> 4550.66] Let -[4550.66 --> 4550.80] The -[4550.80 --> 4550.98] Young -[4550.98 --> 4551.26] People -[4551.26 --> 4551.46] Do -[4551.46 --> 4551.64] It -[4551.64 --> 4552.76] I'm -[4552.76 --> 4552.86] Going -[4552.86 --> 4552.96] To -[4552.96 --> 4553.26] Enjoy -[4553.26 --> 4553.50] My -[4553.50 --> 4554.00] Retirement -[4554.00 --> 4555.26] I've -[4555.26 --> 4555.50] Worked -[4555.50 --> 4555.82] Enough -[4555.82 --> 4556.78] In -[4556.78 --> 4557.18] Service -[4557.18 --> 4557.44] Of -[4557.44 --> 4557.56] The -[4557.56 --> 4557.88] Lord -[4557.88 --> 4558.22] Or -[4558.22 --> 4558.50] In -[4558.50 --> 4558.84] General -[4558.84 --> 4561.76] Now -[4561.76 --> 4562.22] Caleb -[4562.22 --> 4563.40] Is -[4563.40 --> 4563.56] Your -[4563.56 --> 4564.12] Example -[4564.12 --> 4565.56] I -[4565.56 --> 4565.76] Already -[4565.76 --> 4566.02] Said -[4566.02 --> 4566.26] That -[4566.26 --> 4566.80] Caleb -[4566.80 --> 4567.04] And -[4567.04 --> 4567.32] Joshua -[4567.32 --> 4567.52] The -[4567.52 --> 4567.72] Only -[4567.72 --> 4567.96] Two -[4567.96 --> 4568.10] Who -[4568.10 --> 4568.20] Are -[4568.20 --> 4568.86] Allowed -[4568.86 --> 4569.10] To -[4569.10 --> 4569.38] Enter -[4569.38 --> 4569.78] Into -[4569.78 --> 4570.12] The -[4570.12 --> 4570.42] Promised -[4570.42 --> 4570.74] Land -[4570.74 --> 4571.20] In -[4571.20 --> 4571.44] This -[4571.44 --> 4573.14] As -[4573.14 --> 4573.26] A -[4573.26 --> 4573.56] Result -[4573.56 --> 4573.74] Of -[4573.74 --> 4574.06] This -[4574.06 --> 4574.82] Incident -[4574.82 --> 4574.98] Where -[4574.98 --> 4575.10] The -[4575.10 --> 4575.30] People -[4575.30 --> 4575.68] Rebel -[4575.68 --> 4576.10] against -[4576.10 --> 4576.44] God -[4576.44 --> 4577.32] But -[4577.32 --> 4577.50] There's -[4577.50 --> 4577.64] A -[4577.64 --> 4577.98] Story -[4577.98 --> 4578.14] That -[4578.14 --> 4578.36] Takes -[4578.36 --> 4578.66] Place -[4578.66 --> 4578.94] Some -[4578.94 --> 4579.56] 45 -[4579.56 --> 4580.14] Years -[4580.14 --> 4580.48] Later -[4580.48 --> 4580.74] It's -[4580.74 --> 4581.16] Recorded -[4581.16 --> 4581.32] For -[4581.32 --> 4581.50] Us -[4581.50 --> 4581.72] In -[4581.72 --> 4582.20] Numbers -[4582.20 --> 4583.20] 14 -[4583.20 --> 4584.28] And -[4584.28 --> 4584.38] You -[4584.38 --> 4584.50] Can -[4584.50 --> 4584.68] Read -[4584.68 --> 4584.90] About -[4584.90 --> 4585.02] It -[4585.02 --> 4585.18] There -[4585.18 --> 4586.06] But -[4586.06 --> 4586.30] Now -[4586.30 --> 4588.06] The -[4588.06 --> 4590.20] Israelites -[4590.20 --> 4590.64] Have -[4590.64 --> 4591.16] Come -[4591.16 --> 4591.54] A -[4591.54 --> 4591.82] Second -[4591.82 --> 4592.38] Time -[4592.38 --> 4592.82] Into -[4592.82 --> 4593.04] The -[4593.04 --> 4593.42] Land -[4593.42 --> 4594.04] Right -[4594.04 --> 4594.22] And -[4594.22 --> 4594.60] Joshua -[4594.60 --> 4594.90] Has -[4594.90 --> 4595.22] Become -[4595.22 --> 4595.40] The -[4595.40 --> 4595.62] Leader -[4595.62 --> 4595.78] The -[4595.78 --> 4596.22] Replacement -[4596.22 --> 4596.42] Of -[4596.42 --> 4596.70] Moses -[4596.70 --> 4596.92] And -[4596.92 --> 4597.20] Caleb -[4597.20 --> 4597.60] Remains -[4597.60 --> 4598.14] Head -[4598.14 --> 4598.26] Of -[4598.26 --> 4598.44] His -[4598.44 --> 4598.80] Tribe -[4598.80 --> 4599.32] They've -[4599.32 --> 4599.72] Crossed -[4599.72 --> 4599.98] Into -[4599.98 --> 4600.20] The -[4600.20 --> 4600.48] Land -[4600.48 --> 4600.66] The -[4600.66 --> 4600.92] Battle -[4600.92 --> 4601.08] Of -[4601.08 --> 4601.60] Jericho -[4601.60 --> 4601.84] Has -[4601.84 --> 4602.12] Happened -[4602.12 --> 4602.38] Remember -[4602.38 --> 4602.56] That -[4602.56 --> 4602.82] Story -[4602.82 --> 4602.98] Where -[4602.98 --> 4603.08] They -[4603.08 --> 4603.34] March -[4603.34 --> 4603.58] Around -[4603.58 --> 4603.74] The -[4603.74 --> 4603.94] City -[4603.94 --> 4604.08] And -[4608.14 --> 4608.72] 14 -[4608.72 --> 4609.36] We -[4609.36 --> 4609.72] Read -[4609.72 --> 4612.08] This -[4612.08 --> 4612.22] Is -[4612.22 --> 4612.52] Caleb -[4612.52 --> 4612.82] Now -[4612.82 --> 4614.08] Speaking -[4614.08 --> 4615.46] Now -[4615.46 --> 4615.72] Then -[4615.72 --> 4616.06] Just -[4616.06 --> 4616.24] As -[4616.24 --> 4616.38] The -[4616.38 --> 4616.54] Lord -[4616.54 --> 4616.96] Promised -[4616.96 --> 4617.20] He -[4617.20 --> 4617.40] Has -[4617.40 --> 4617.64] Kept -[4617.64 --> 4617.84] Me -[4617.84 --> 4618.30] Alive -[4618.30 --> 4618.48] For -[4618.48 --> 4619.02] 45 -[4619.02 --> 4619.68] Years -[4619.68 --> 4619.98] Since -[4619.98 --> 4620.16] The -[4620.16 --> 4620.54] Time -[4620.54 --> 4620.96] He -[4620.96 --> 4621.22] Said -[4621.22 --> 4621.42] This -[4621.42 --> 4621.58] To -[4621.58 --> 4621.96] Moses -[4621.96 --> 4622.52] While -[4622.52 --> 4622.88] Israel -[4622.88 --> 4623.26] Moved -[4623.26 --> 4623.50] About -[4623.50 --> 4623.62] In -[4623.62 --> 4623.74] The -[4623.74 --> 4624.14] Wilderness -[4624.14 --> 4624.64] So -[4624.64 --> 4624.92] Here -[4624.92 --> 4625.14] I -[4625.14 --> 4625.32] Am -[4625.32 --> 4625.68] Today -[4625.68 --> 4626.40] 85 -[4626.40 --> 4627.00] Years -[4627.00 --> 4627.38] Old -[4627.38 --> 4628.76] I -[4628.76 --> 4628.86] Am -[4628.86 --> 4629.12] Still -[4629.12 --> 4629.32] As -[4629.32 --> 4629.66] Strong -[4629.66 --> 4629.98] Today -[4629.98 --> 4630.22] As -[4630.22 --> 4630.38] The -[4630.38 --> 4630.54] Day -[4630.54 --> 4630.84] Moses -[4630.84 --> 4631.16] Sent -[4631.16 --> 4631.34] Me -[4631.34 --> 4631.56] Out -[4631.56 --> 4631.72] I -[4631.72 --> 4631.80] Am -[4631.80 --> 4632.04] Just -[4632.04 --> 4632.24] As -[4632.24 --> 4632.60] Vigorous -[4632.60 --> 4632.78] To -[4632.78 --> 4632.94] Go -[4632.94 --> 4633.10] Out -[4633.10 --> 4633.22] To -[4633.22 --> 4633.46] Battle -[4633.46 --> 4633.74] Now -[4633.74 --> 4633.90] As -[4633.90 --> 4634.02] I -[4638.14 --> 4650.84] In -[4650.84 --> 4651.00] Case -[4651.00 --> 4651.14] You -[4651.14 --> 4651.44] Missed -[4651.44 --> 4651.66] It -[4651.66 --> 4652.28] 85 -[4652.28 --> 4652.68] Year -[4652.68 --> 4652.86] Old -[4652.86 --> 4653.18] Caleb -[4653.18 --> 4653.52] Is -[4653.52 --> 4653.86] Saying -[4653.86 --> 4654.34] Put -[4654.34 --> 4654.52] Me -[4654.52 --> 4654.72] On -[4654.72 --> 4654.84] The -[4654.84 --> 4655.06] Front -[4655.06 --> 4655.54] Lines -[4655.54 --> 4657.38] Because -[4657.38 --> 4657.56] I -[4657.56 --> 4657.74] Know -[4657.74 --> 4658.00] God -[4658.00 --> 4658.16] Is -[4658.16 --> 4658.58] Good -[4658.58 --> 4660.52] 85 -[4660.52 --> 4660.82] Year -[4660.82 --> 4660.98] Old -[4660.98 --> 4661.22] Caleb -[4661.22 --> 4661.44] Is -[4661.44 --> 4661.76] Still -[4661.76 --> 4662.16] Full -[4662.16 --> 4662.32] Of -[4662.32 --> 4662.46] The -[4662.46 --> 4663.08] Conviction -[4663.08 --> 4663.64] That -[4663.64 --> 4663.96] God -[4663.96 --> 4664.14] Will -[4664.14 --> 4664.60] Provide -[4664.60 --> 4664.96] That -[4664.96 --> 4665.24] God -[4665.24 --> 4665.40] Is -[4665.40 --> 4665.70] Leading -[4665.70 --> 4665.88] The -[4665.88 --> 4666.20] Armies -[4666.20 --> 4666.34] That -[4666.34 --> 4666.58] He -[4666.58 --> 4666.84] Is -[4666.84 --> 4667.12] Bringing -[4667.12 --> 4667.42] About -[4667.42 --> 4667.58] The -[4667.58 --> 4667.92] Future -[4667.92 --> 4668.42] That -[4668.42 --> 4668.56] He -[4668.56 --> 4669.06] Promised -[4669.06 --> 4669.50] And -[4669.50 --> 4669.74] That -[4669.74 --> 4670.48] That -[4670.48 --> 4670.62] Is -[4670.62 --> 4670.80] A -[4670.80 --> 4671.10] Model -[4671.10 --> 4671.32] To -[4671.32 --> 4671.58] Hold -[4671.58 --> 4671.80] Up -[4671.80 --> 4671.98] And -[4671.98 --> 4672.12] To -[4672.12 --> 4672.28] Look -[4672.28 --> 4672.40] To -[4672.40 --> 4672.52] No -[4672.52 --> 4672.64] Matter -[4672.64 --> 4672.88] What -[4672.88 --> 4673.18] Age -[4673.18 --> 4673.34] You -[4673.34 --> 4673.56] Are -[4673.56 --> 4676.78] And -[4676.78 --> 4676.96] Then -[4676.96 --> 4677.52] Lastly -[4677.52 --> 4678.82] A -[4678.82 --> 4679.04] Word -[4679.04 --> 4679.40] About -[4679.40 --> 4680.24] Grumbling -[4680.24 --> 4682.58] Chapter -[4682.58 --> 4683.12] 14 -[4683.12 --> 4683.54] Verse -[4683.54 --> 4683.78] 2 -[4683.78 --> 4684.06] Says -[4684.06 --> 4684.24] All -[4684.24 --> 4684.40] The -[4684.40 --> 4684.82] Israelites -[4684.82 --> 4685.24] Grumbled -[4685.24 --> 4685.56] Against -[4685.56 --> 4685.88] Moses -[4685.88 --> 4686.10] And -[4686.10 --> 4686.34] Aaron -[4686.34 --> 4686.50] And -[4686.50 --> 4686.60] Then -[4686.60 --> 4686.90] In -[4686.90 --> 4687.16] Chapter -[4687.16 --> 4687.84] 27 -[4687.84 --> 4688.04] Or -[4688.04 --> 4688.16] In -[4688.16 --> 4688.28] Verse -[4688.28 --> 4688.76] 27 -[4688.76 --> 4689.08] Sorry -[4689.08 --> 4690.46] God -[4690.46 --> 4690.68] Says -[4690.68 --> 4690.88] How -[4690.88 --> 4691.14] Long -[4691.14 --> 4691.30] Will -[4691.30 --> 4691.48] This -[4691.48 --> 4691.76] Wicked -[4691.76 --> 4692.30] Community -[4692.30 --> 4692.86] Grumble -[4692.86 --> 4693.32] Against -[4693.32 --> 4693.58] Me -[4693.58 --> 4694.88] And -[4694.88 --> 4694.98] I -[4694.98 --> 4695.20] Say -[4695.20 --> 4695.60] This -[4695.60 --> 4697.32] Because -[4697.32 --> 4697.52] It's -[4697.52 --> 4697.68] Worth -[4697.68 --> 4698.32] Mentioning -[4698.32 --> 4699.92] Because -[4699.92 --> 4700.68] As -[4700.68 --> 4701.18] Humans -[4701.18 --> 4702.24] Right -[4702.24 --> 4702.48] We -[4702.48 --> 4702.76] Are -[4702.76 --> 4703.58] Good -[4703.58 --> 4703.88] At -[4703.88 --> 4704.38] Grumbling -[4704.38 --> 4706.00] And -[4706.00 --> 4706.10] I -[4706.10 --> 4706.22] Would -[4706.22 --> 4706.38] Even -[4706.38 --> 4706.58] Go -[4706.58 --> 4706.94] So far -[4706.94 --> 4707.06] As -[4707.06 --> 4707.14] To -[4707.14 --> 4707.30] Say -[4707.30 --> 4707.54] As -[4707.54 --> 4707.92] Church -[4707.92 --> 4708.36] People -[4708.36 --> 4709.44] We -[4709.44 --> 4709.58] Are -[4709.58 --> 4710.06] Great -[4710.06 --> 4710.92] At -[4710.92 --> 4711.38] Grumbling -[4711.38 --> 4713.76] We -[4713.76 --> 4713.88] We -[4713.88 --> 4713.92] We -[4713.92 --> 4714.00] We're -[4714.00 --> 4714.82] Good -[4714.82 --> 4715.94] Grumblers -[4715.94 --> 4717.16] And -[4717.16 --> 4717.24] You -[4717.24 --> 4717.40] Know -[4717.40 --> 4717.68] That -[4717.68 --> 4718.30] And -[4718.30 --> 4718.40] I -[4718.40 --> 4718.52] Know -[4718.52 --> 4718.74] One -[4718.74 --> 4718.86] Of -[4718.86 --> 4718.98] You -[4718.98 --> 4719.14] Is -[4719.14 --> 4719.38] Thinking -[4719.38 --> 4719.64] About -[4719.64 --> 4719.76] The -[4719.76 --> 4719.96] Person -[4719.96 --> 4720.34] Beside -[4720.34 --> 4720.54] You -[4720.54 --> 4720.72] Or -[4720.72 --> 4721.18] Someone -[4721.18 --> 4721.40] Else -[4721.40 --> 4721.50] And -[4721.50 --> 4721.58] You're -[4721.58 --> 4721.74] Like -[4721.74 --> 4721.90] Yeah -[4721.90 --> 4722.06] Man -[4722.06 --> 4722.22] They -[4722.22 --> 4722.38] Can -[4722.38 --> 4722.58] Grumble -[4722.58 --> 4723.04] You -[4723.04 --> 4725.42] You -[4725.42 --> 4726.30] Can -[4726.30 --> 4726.70] Grumble -[4726.70 --> 4727.58] But -[4727.58 --> 4727.82] Notice -[4727.82 --> 4728.10] This -[4728.10 --> 4728.32] This -[4728.32 --> 4728.46] Is -[4728.46 --> 4729.30] Amazing -[4729.30 --> 4729.48] The -[4729.48 --> 4729.64] First -[4729.64 --> 4729.80] Time -[4729.80 --> 4729.92] I -[4729.92 --> 4730.52] Learned -[4730.52 --> 4730.68] This -[4730.68 --> 4731.24] This -[4731.24 --> 4731.52] Is -[4731.52 --> 4731.76] The -[4731.76 --> 4732.18] Last -[4732.18 --> 4732.70] Place -[4732.70 --> 4733.62] In -[4733.62 --> 4733.84] This -[4733.84 --> 4734.30] Story -[4734.30 --> 4735.36] That -[4735.36 --> 4735.52] The -[4735.52 --> 4735.80] Whole -[4735.80 --> 4736.36] Community -[4736.36 --> 4736.62] Of -[4736.62 --> 4737.06] Israel -[4737.06 --> 4738.06] Grumbles -[4738.06 --> 4740.34] Right -[4740.34 --> 4740.48] Now -[4740.48 --> 4740.68] You -[4740.68 --> 4740.86] Can -[4740.86 --> 4741.16] Read -[4741.16 --> 4741.32] The -[4741.32 --> 4741.54] Story -[4741.54 --> 4741.68] You -[4741.68 --> 4741.80] Can -[4741.80 --> 4742.20] Continue -[4742.20 --> 4742.46] And -[4742.46 --> 4742.64] There's -[4742.64 --> 4742.78] A -[4742.78 --> 4743.20] Place -[4743.20 --> 4743.42] In -[4743.42 --> 4743.74] Numbers -[4743.74 --> 4744.14] 16 -[4744.14 --> 4744.42] Where -[4744.42 --> 4744.54] A -[4744.54 --> 4744.72] Group -[4744.72 --> 4744.86] Of -[4744.86 --> 4745.58] 250 -[4745.58 --> 4745.92] People -[4745.92 --> 4746.24] Grumble -[4746.24 --> 4746.92] But -[4746.92 --> 4747.08] I -[4747.08 --> 4747.22] Think -[4747.22 --> 4747.34] You -[4747.34 --> 4747.48] Can -[4747.48 --> 4747.74] Argue -[4747.74 --> 4748.00] That -[4748.00 --> 4748.28] One -[4748.28 --> 4748.96] 250 -[4748.96 --> 4749.34] Is -[4749.34 --> 4749.52] Not -[4749.52 --> 4749.64] The -[4749.64 --> 4749.76] Whole -[4749.76 --> 4750.16] Community -[4750.16 --> 4750.78] Two -[4750.78 --> 4751.22] That -[4751.22 --> 4751.24] That -[4751.24 --> 4751.40] That -[4751.40 --> 4751.74] Group -[4751.74 --> 4751.94] Is -[4751.94 --> 4752.34] Grumbling -[4752.34 --> 4752.92] As -[4752.92 --> 4753.02] A -[4753.02 --> 4753.64] Continuation -[4753.64 --> 4753.84] Of -[4753.84 --> 4754.02] What's -[4754.02 --> 4754.32] Happening -[4754.32 --> 4754.54] In -[4754.54 --> 4754.94] This -[4754.94 --> 4756.04] Story -[4756.04 --> 4756.36] Where -[4756.36 --> 4756.48] They -[4756.48 --> 4756.64] Want -[4756.64 --> 4756.76] A -[4756.76 --> 4757.00] Change -[4757.00 --> 4757.14] Of -[4757.14 --> 4757.44] Leadership -[4757.44 --> 4757.62] They -[4757.62 --> 4757.72] Want -[4757.72 --> 4757.80] To -[4757.80 --> 4757.94] Kick -[4757.94 --> 4758.20] Moses -[4758.20 --> 4758.50] Out -[4758.50 --> 4759.64] Now -[4759.64 --> 4759.84] These -[4759.84 --> 4760.10] People -[4760.10 --> 4760.30] Will -[4760.30 --> 4760.70] Struggle -[4760.70 --> 4762.14] And -[4762.14 --> 4762.24] They -[4762.24 --> 4762.40] Will -[4762.40 --> 4762.58] Ask -[4762.58 --> 4763.08] Questions -[4763.08 --> 4763.34] And -[4763.34 --> 4763.44] They -[4763.44 --> 4763.56] Will -[4763.56 --> 4763.96] Wander -[4763.96 --> 4764.58] Right -[4764.58 --> 4765.32] But -[4765.32 --> 4765.52] As -[4765.52 --> 4765.72] I -[4765.72 --> 4765.94] Read -[4765.94 --> 4766.10] The -[4766.10 --> 4766.44] Story -[4766.44 --> 4766.66] And -[4766.66 --> 4766.76] You -[4766.76 --> 4766.88] Can -[4766.88 --> 4767.02] Go -[4767.02 --> 4767.26] Home -[4767.26 --> 4767.40] And -[4767.40 --> 4767.52] You -[4767.52 --> 4767.64] Can -[4767.64 --> 4767.84] Test -[4767.84 --> 4767.98] Me -[4767.98 --> 4768.10] On -[4768.10 --> 4768.30] This -[4768.30 --> 4768.70] Finish -[4768.70 --> 4768.88] The -[4768.88 --> 4769.04] Book -[4769.04 --> 4769.18] Of -[4769.18 --> 4769.52] Numbers -[4769.52 --> 4770.10] Read -[4770.10 --> 4770.32] All -[4770.32 --> 4770.60] Through -[4770.60 --> 4771.44] Deuteronomy -[4771.44 --> 4771.98] Keep -[4771.98 --> 4772.34] Going -[4772.34 --> 4772.60] And -[4772.60 --> 4773.06] Search -[4773.06 --> 4773.22] You -[4773.22 --> 4773.32] Can -[4773.32 --> 4773.42] Do -[4773.42 --> 4773.54] A -[4773.54 --> 4773.70] Word -[4773.70 --> 4773.96] Search -[4773.96 --> 4774.26] Online -[4774.26 --> 4774.50] There's -[4774.50 --> 4774.70] Tools -[4774.70 --> 4774.88] For -[4774.88 --> 4775.08] That -[4775.08 --> 4775.56] Test -[4775.56 --> 4775.74] Me -[4775.74 --> 4775.92] In -[4775.92 --> 4776.16] This -[4776.16 --> 4777.24] This -[4777.24 --> 4777.28] Is -[4777.28 --> 4777.40] The -[4777.40 --> 4777.70] Last -[4777.70 --> 4778.02] Time -[4778.02 --> 4778.18] That -[4778.18 --> 4778.28] The -[4778.28 --> 4778.76] Community -[4778.76 --> 4779.28] Grumbles -[4779.28 --> 4780.18] Until -[4780.18 --> 4782.20] They're -[4782.20 --> 4782.30] In -[4782.30 --> 4782.40] The -[4782.40 --> 4782.72] Promised -[4790.30 --> 4792.70] They -[4792.70 --> 4793.16] Lost -[4793.16 --> 4793.44] It -[4793.44 --> 4794.64] In -[4794.64 --> 4794.76] The -[4794.76 --> 4795.08] Promised -[4795.08 --> 4795.38] Land -[4795.38 --> 4797.68] In -[4797.68 --> 4797.88] The -[4797.88 --> 4798.66] Struggles -[4798.66 --> 4799.16] And -[4799.16 --> 4799.76] Hardships -[4799.76 --> 4799.98] Of -[4799.98 --> 4800.48] Life -[4800.48 --> 4801.16] Your -[4801.16 --> 4801.66] Faith -[4801.66 --> 4802.02] Is -[4802.02 --> 4802.42] Being -[4802.42 --> 4803.38] Formed -[4803.38 --> 4803.94] And -[4803.94 --> 4804.64] Shaped -[4804.64 --> 4805.58] Right -[4805.58 --> 4805.74] In -[4805.74 --> 4806.54] Hardship -[4806.54 --> 4806.76] Your -[4806.76 --> 4807.16] Faith -[4807.16 --> 4807.82] Helps -[4807.82 --> 4808.12] You -[4808.12 --> 4809.20] Overcome -[4809.20 --> 4812.04] Maybe -[4812.04 --> 4812.28] What -[4812.28 --> 4812.42] We're -[4812.42 --> 4812.68] Seeing -[4812.68 --> 4813.06] Here -[4813.06 --> 4813.32] Is -[4813.32 --> 4813.52] That -[4813.52 --> 4813.76] It's -[4813.76 --> 4813.96] In -[4813.96 --> 4814.68] Ease -[4814.68 --> 4815.32] And -[4815.32 --> 4816.08] Comfort -[4816.08 --> 4817.80] That -[4817.80 --> 4818.04] Hanging -[4818.04 --> 4818.28] On -[4818.28 --> 4818.38] To -[4818.38 --> 4818.52] Your -[4818.52 --> 4818.76] Faith -[4818.76 --> 4818.98] Gets -[4818.98 --> 4819.20] Really -[4819.20 --> 4819.54] Hard -[4819.54 --> 4821.94] Maybe -[4821.94 --> 4822.28] When -[4822.28 --> 4822.40] You -[4822.40 --> 4822.58] Get -[4822.58 --> 4822.94] Everything -[4822.94 --> 4823.18] You -[4823.18 --> 4823.38] Ever -[4823.38 --> 4823.92] Wanted -[4823.92 --> 4825.68] That's -[4825.68 --> 4825.80] When -[4825.80 --> 4825.92] We -[4825.92 --> 4826.10] Lose -[4826.10 --> 4826.24] Our -[4826.24 --> 4826.50] Faith -[4826.50 --> 4828.00] I -[4828.00 --> 4828.16] Know -[4828.16 --> 4828.36] Some -[4828.36 --> 4828.46] Of -[4828.46 --> 4828.52] You -[4828.52 --> 4828.62] Have -[4828.62 --> 4829.06] Experienced -[4829.06 --> 4829.24] That -[4829.24 --> 4829.44] Right -[4829.44 --> 4829.58] When -[4829.58 --> 4830.10] Things -[4830.10 --> 4830.24] Are -[4830.24 --> 4830.52] Hard -[4830.52 --> 4830.70] You -[4830.70 --> 4830.94] Pray -[4830.94 --> 4831.32] More -[4831.32 --> 4831.72] You -[4831.72 --> 4832.04] You -[4832.04 --> 4833.04] Reach -[4833.04 --> 4833.30] Out -[4833.30 --> 4833.54] For -[4833.54 --> 4833.84] Help -[4833.84 --> 4834.34] More -[4834.34 --> 4834.72] You -[4834.72 --> 4835.06] Connect -[4835.06 --> 4835.24] With -[4835.24 --> 4835.44] Other -[4835.44 --> 4835.94] Believers -[4835.94 --> 4836.26] More -[4836.26 --> 4836.46] You -[4836.46 --> 4836.80] Spend -[4836.80 --> 4837.02] More -[4837.02 --> 4837.38] Time -[4837.38 --> 4837.52] In -[4837.52 --> 4837.68] The -[4837.68 --> 4838.00] Scriptures -[4838.00 --> 4838.52] And -[4838.52 --> 4839.00] Listening -[4839.00 --> 4839.28] To -[4839.28 --> 4840.00] Sermons -[4840.00 --> 4840.20] And -[4840.20 --> 4840.62] Preachers -[4840.62 --> 4841.10] Online -[4841.10 --> 4841.32] And -[4841.32 --> 4842.04] Podcasts -[4842.04 --> 4842.42] Wrestling -[4842.42 --> 4842.94] With -[4842.94 --> 4843.08] The -[4843.08 --> 4843.34] Truth -[4843.34 --> 4843.52] Of -[4843.52 --> 4843.68] Who -[4843.68 --> 4843.90] God -[4843.90 --> 4844.08] Is -[4844.08 --> 4844.72] Hoping -[4844.72 --> 4844.92] To -[4844.92 --> 4845.26] Find -[4849.54 --> 4849.96] Seeing -[4849.96 --> 4850.18] That -[4850.18 --> 4850.44] God -[4850.44 --> 4850.58] Is -[4850.58 --> 4850.84] Holding -[4850.84 --> 4851.04] On -[4851.04 --> 4851.14] To -[4851.14 --> 4851.32] You -[4851.32 --> 4851.48] In -[4851.48 --> 4851.58] The -[4851.58 --> 4851.76] Midst -[4851.76 --> 4851.88] Of -[4851.88 --> 4852.04] All -[4852.04 --> 4852.24] This -[4852.24 --> 4852.86] Chaos -[4852.86 --> 4854.42] But -[4854.42 --> 4854.56] When -[4854.56 --> 4854.82] Things -[4854.82 --> 4854.98] Are -[4854.98 --> 4855.48] Good -[4855.48 --> 4857.06] It's -[4857.06 --> 4857.32] So -[4857.32 --> 4857.72] Easy -[4857.72 --> 4857.96] To -[4857.96 --> 4858.26] Forget -[4858.26 --> 4858.48] The -[4858.48 --> 4859.12] Disciplines -[4859.12 --> 4859.54] Of -[4859.54 --> 4859.66] Our -[4859.66 --> 4860.14] Faith -[4860.14 --> 4860.44] It's -[4860.44 --> 4860.76] When -[4860.76 --> 4861.06] Things -[4861.06 --> 4861.26] Are -[4861.26 --> 4861.98] Easy -[4861.98 --> 4863.24] That -[4863.24 --> 4863.36] We -[4863.36 --> 4863.64] Stop -[4863.64 --> 4864.10] Pursuing -[4864.10 --> 4864.46] God -[4864.46 --> 4866.36] And -[4866.36 --> 4866.52] So -[4866.52 --> 4867.02] Faith -[4867.02 --> 4867.62] Is -[4867.62 --> 4868.42] Forged -[4868.42 --> 4868.64] In -[4868.64 --> 4868.82] The -[4868.82 --> 4869.42] Furnace -[4869.42 --> 4871.84] It's -[4871.84 --> 4872.24] Lost -[4872.24 --> 4872.48] In -[4872.48 --> 4872.60] The -[4872.60 --> 4872.90] Land -[4872.90 --> 4874.94] When -[4874.94 --> 4875.04] They -[4875.04 --> 4875.20] Got -[4875.20 --> 4875.50] Everything -[4875.50 --> 4875.70] They -[4875.70 --> 4876.18] Wanted -[4876.18 --> 4877.88] They -[4877.88 --> 4878.16] Lost -[4878.16 --> 4878.48] God -[4878.48 --> 4881.04] When -[4881.04 --> 4881.18] We -[4881.18 --> 4881.44] Stop -[4881.44 --> 4881.78] Seeing -[4881.78 --> 4882.44] Ourselves -[4882.44 --> 4882.80] As -[4882.80 --> 4883.38] God -[4883.38 --> 4883.80] Sees -[4883.80 --> 4884.08] Us -[4884.08 --> 4884.26] We -[4884.26 --> 4884.58] Begin -[4884.58 --> 4884.88] To -[4884.88 --> 4885.58] Doubt -[4885.58 --> 4885.74] And -[4885.74 --> 4885.90] To -[4885.90 --> 4886.10] Let -[4886.10 --> 4886.60] Doubt -[4886.60 --> 4886.86] And -[4886.86 --> 4887.38] Fear -[4887.38 --> 4887.64] And -[4887.64 --> 4888.20] Shame -[4888.20 --> 4889.00] Rule -[4889.00 --> 4889.22] And -[4889.22 --> 4889.52] Have -[4889.52 --> 4889.78] Our -[4889.78 --> 4890.18] Way -[4890.18 --> 4890.66] Have -[4890.66 --> 4890.90] Its -[4890.90 --> 4891.16] Way -[4891.16 --> 4891.42] In -[4891.42 --> 4891.74] Us -[4891.74 --> 4893.74] But -[4893.74 --> 4894.00] We -[4894.00 --> 4894.30] Are -[4894.30 --> 4894.66] Not -[4894.66 --> 4895.88] Grasshoppers -[4895.88 --> 4897.02] We -[4897.02 --> 4897.18] Are -[4897.18 --> 4897.58] God's -[4897.58 --> 4897.92] Own -[4897.92 --> 4898.54] Possession -[4898.54 --> 4899.48] And -[4899.48 --> 4899.64] As -[4899.64 --> 4899.78] We -[4899.78 --> 4900.00] Look -[4900.00 --> 4900.32] Back -[4900.32 --> 4900.52] On -[4900.52 --> 4900.64] A -[4900.64 --> 4900.80] Year -[4900.80 --> 4901.42] Completed -[4901.42 --> 4901.86] And -[4901.86 --> 4901.98] We -[4901.98 --> 4902.16] Look -[4902.16 --> 4902.58] Forward -[4902.58 --> 4902.96] To -[4902.96 --> 4903.14] A -[4903.14 --> 4903.42] Year -[4903.42 --> 4904.12] Ahead -[4904.12 --> 4904.48] Let's -[4904.48 --> 4904.80] Not -[4904.80 --> 4905.06] Be -[4905.06 --> 4905.58] Afraid -[4905.58 --> 4905.92] Of -[4905.92 --> 4906.46] Hard -[4906.46 --> 4907.32] Things -[4907.32 --> 4907.74] Of -[4907.74 --> 4908.42] Challenges -[4908.42 --> 4909.06] And -[4909.06 --> 4909.94] Trials -[4909.94 --> 4910.36] And -[4910.36 --> 4911.04] Hardships -[4911.04 --> 4911.34] Because -[4911.34 --> 4911.50] It -[4911.50 --> 4911.64] Is -[4911.64 --> 4912.76] Precisely -[4912.76 --> 4913.40] In -[4913.40 --> 4913.76] Those -[4913.76 --> 4914.26] Moments -[4914.26 --> 4914.70] Where -[4914.70 --> 4915.10] God -[4915.10 --> 4915.50] Does -[4915.50 --> 4915.86] His -[4915.86 --> 4916.66] Best -[4916.66 --> 4917.74] Work -[4917.74 --> 4918.28] Do -[4918.28 --> 4918.66] Not -[4918.66 --> 4919.30] Be -[4919.30 --> 4920.24] Afraid -[4920.24 --> 4921.88] Let -[4921.88 --> 4921.90] Let -[4921.90 --> 4921.92] Let -[4921.92 --> 4922.96] Let -[4922.96 --> 4922.98] Let -[4922.98 --> 4923.96] Let -[4923.96 --> 4924.82] Let -[4924.82 --> 4925.98] Be -[4925.98 --> 4926.98] Afraid -[4926.98 --> 4928.02] But -[4928.02 --> 4928.36] Go -[4928.36 --> 4929.42] In -[4929.42 --> 4929.94] Peace -[4929.94 --> 4930.50] To -[4930.50 --> 4930.90] Love -[4930.90 --> 4931.56] And -[4931.56 --> 4932.02] Serve -[4932.02 --> 4932.68] The -[4932.68 --> 4932.98] Lord -[4932.98 --> 4933.36] And -[4933.36 --> 4933.58] Everyone -[4933.58 --> 4933.92] Said -[4933.92 --> 4935.28] Amen -[4935.28 --> 4936.36] Let's -[4936.36 --> 4936.96] Stand -[4936.96 --> 4937.46] Together -[4937.46 --> 4938.20] And -[4938.20 --> 4938.40] Pray -[4938.40 --> 4949.52] Holy -[4949.52 --> 4949.54] Holy -[4949.54 --> 4949.56] Holy -[4949.56 --> 4949.88] Holy -[4949.88 --> 4950.24] God -[4950.24 --> 4950.52] You -[4950.52 --> 4951.02] Are -[4951.02 --> 4952.04] A -[4952.04 --> 4952.40] Mighty -[4952.40 --> 4953.22] Warrior -[4953.22 --> 4953.68] For -[4953.68 --> 4953.86] Your -[4953.86 --> 4954.20] People -[4954.20 --> 4956.82] You -[4956.82 --> 4957.26] Are -[4957.26 --> 4957.70] A -[4957.70 --> 4957.98] Mighty -[4957.98 --> 4959.40] Fortress -[4959.40 --> 4960.26] For -[4960.26 --> 4960.44] Your -[4960.44 --> 4960.80] People -[4960.80 --> 4962.50] A -[4962.50 --> 4963.02] Bulwark -[4963.02 --> 4963.42] Never -[4963.42 --> 4963.92] Failing -[4963.92 --> 4964.28] And so -[4964.28 --> 4964.82] No matter -[4964.82 --> 4965.20] What -[4965.20 --> 4965.56] We -[4965.56 --> 4966.16] Face -[4966.16 --> 4966.92] Today -[4966.92 --> 4967.30] Whatever -[4967.30 --> 4967.94] Trial -[4967.94 --> 4968.44] Challenge -[4968.44 --> 4968.62] Or -[4968.62 --> 4969.06] Hardship -[4969.06 --> 4969.22] It -[4969.22 --> 4969.38] May -[4969.38 --> 4969.58] Be -[4969.58 --> 4970.28] Use -[4970.28 --> 4970.62] It -[4970.62 --> 4970.96] To -[4970.96 --> 4972.24] Forge -[4972.24 --> 4972.80] Our -[4972.80 --> 4973.64] Faith -[4973.64 --> 4974.24] In -[4974.24 --> 4974.86] You -[4974.86 --> 4975.10] And -[4975.10 --> 4975.26] May -[4975.26 --> 4975.46] We -[4975.46 --> 4975.90] Step -[4975.90 --> 4976.36] Forward -[4976.36 --> 4976.70] Tonight -[4976.70 --> 4977.32] Looking -[4977.32 --> 4977.92] Back -[4977.92 --> 4978.14] At -[4978.14 --> 4978.40] All -[4978.40 --> 4978.58] That -[4978.58 --> 4978.70] You -[4978.70 --> 4978.94] Have -[4978.94 --> 4979.26] Done -[4979.26 --> 4979.68] May -[4979.68 --> 4979.84] We -[4979.84 --> 4980.14] Step -[4980.14 --> 4980.54] Forward -[4980.54 --> 4980.96] Tonight -[4980.96 --> 4982.16] Confident -[4982.16 --> 4983.82] That -[4983.82 --> 4984.18] You -[4984.18 --> 4984.82] Go -[4984.82 --> 4985.62] With -[4985.62 --> 4986.10] Us -[4986.10 --> 4987.14] Mighty -[4987.14 --> 4988.36] To -[4988.36 --> 4988.76] Save -[4988.76 --> 4990.82] Confident -[4990.82 --> 4991.20] That -[4991.20 --> 4991.82] No -[4991.82 --> 4992.24] Matter -[4992.24 --> 4993.12] What -[4993.12 --> 4993.72] We -[4993.72 --> 4994.14] Are -[4994.14 --> 4994.54] In -[4994.54 --> 4995.46] Your -[4995.46 --> 4996.14] Care -[4996.14 --> 4996.36] That -[4996.36 --> 4996.60] No -[4996.60 --> 4997.02] Matter -[4997.02 --> 4997.80] What -[4997.80 --> 4998.40] You -[4998.40 --> 4998.82] Have -[4998.82 --> 4999.60] Already -[4999.60 --> 5000.56] Won -[5000.56 --> 5001.36] The -[5001.36 --> 5001.72] Victory -[5001.72 --> 5003.14] In -[5003.14 --> 5003.42] Your -[5003.42 --> 5003.70] Name -[5003.70 --> 5003.88] We -[5003.88 --> 5004.10] Pray -[5004.10 --> 5004.34] Lord -[5004.34 --> 5004.68] Jesus -[5004.68 --> 5005.96] Amen -[5023.72 --> 5035.26] Amen -[5035.26 --> 5035.46] A mighty -[5035.46 --> 5036.96] Fortress -[5036.96 --> 5037.48] Is -[5037.48 --> 5037.98] Our -[5037.98 --> 5039.18] God -[5039.18 --> 5040.24] A -[5040.24 --> 5041.28] Bulwark -[5041.28 --> 5041.96] Never -[5041.96 --> 5043.76] Failing -[5043.76 --> 5045.60] Our -[5045.60 --> 5046.60] Helper -[5046.60 --> 5047.26] He -[5047.26 --> 5048.34] Amid -[5048.34 --> 5048.78] The -[5048.78 --> 5049.98] Club -[5049.98 --> 5051.04] Of -[5051.04 --> 5051.66] Mortal -[5051.66 --> 5052.74] Ills -[5052.74 --> 5054.50] Prevailing -[5054.50 --> 5056.42] For -[5056.42 --> 5057.10] Still -[5057.10 --> 5057.68] Our -[5057.68 --> 5058.30] Ancient -[5058.30 --> 5059.90] Foal -[5059.90 --> 5060.84] Doth -[5060.84 --> 5061.40] Seek -[5061.40 --> 5061.98] To -[5061.98 --> 5062.58] Work -[5062.58 --> 5063.10] Us -[5063.10 --> 5064.38] Woe -[5064.38 --> 5065.20] His -[5065.20 --> 5065.80] Craft -[5065.80 --> 5066.30] And -[5066.30 --> 5066.92] Power -[5066.92 --> 5067.42] Are -[5067.42 --> 5068.54] Great -[5068.54 --> 5069.62] And -[5069.62 --> 5070.16] On -[5070.16 --> 5070.64] With -[5070.64 --> 5071.26] Fruit -[5071.26 --> 5073.26] On -[5073.26 --> 5074.50] Earth -[5074.50 --> 5075.00] Is -[5075.00 --> 5075.58] Not -[5075.58 --> 5076.18] His -[5076.18 --> 5077.26] Equal -[5077.26 --> 5078.26] Did -[5078.26 --> 5081.26] We -[5081.26 --> 5082.26] In -[5082.26 --> 5083.14] Our -[5083.14 --> 5083.54] Own -[5083.54 --> 5084.20] Strength -[5084.20 --> 5085.26] Confide -[5085.80 --> 5086.26] Our -[5086.26 --> 5087.26] Striving -[5087.80 --> 5088.38] Would -[5088.38 --> 5090.38] We -[5090.38 --> 5091.38] We -[5091.38 --> 5092.12] Were -[5092.12 --> 5092.38] Not -[5092.38 --> 5093.16] The -[5093.16 --> 5093.76] Right -[5093.76 --> 5094.34] Man -[5094.34 --> 5094.88] On -[5094.88 --> 5095.32] Our -[5095.32 --> 5096.46] Side -[5096.46 --> 5097.38] The -[5097.38 --> 5098.06] Man -[5098.06 --> 5098.56] Of -[5098.56 --> 5099.06] God -[5099.06 --> 5099.62] Don't -[5099.62 --> 5100.70] Choose -[5100.70 --> 5101.64] Him -[5101.64 --> 5102.78] Just -[5102.78 --> 5103.34] Ask -[5103.34 --> 5103.84] Who -[5103.84 --> 5104.40] That -[5104.40 --> 5104.96] May -[5104.96 --> 5106.02] Be -[5106.02 --> 5107.02] Christ -[5107.02 --> 5107.78] Jesus -[5107.78 --> 5108.74] It -[5108.74 --> 5109.26] Is -[5109.26 --> 5110.34] He -[5110.34 --> 5111.24] Lord -[5111.24 --> 5112.98] Savoth -[5112.98 --> 5113.56] Is -[5113.56 --> 5114.62] Him -[5114.62 --> 5115.70] From -[5115.70 --> 5116.20] Age -[5116.20 --> 5116.66] To -[5116.66 --> 5117.28] Age -[5117.28 --> 5117.82] The -[5117.82 --> 5118.98] Save -[5118.98 --> 5120.02] And -[5120.02 --> 5120.46] He -[5120.46 --> 5121.04] Must -[5121.04 --> 5121.62] Win -[5121.62 --> 5122.18] The -[5122.18 --> 5123.52] Battle -[5123.52 --> 5127.62] And -[5127.62 --> 5128.10] Though -[5128.10 --> 5128.70] This -[5128.70 --> 5129.24] World -[5129.24 --> 5129.80] With -[5129.80 --> 5130.86] Devils -[5130.86 --> 5131.96] Filled -[5131.96 --> 5133.04] Should -[5133.04 --> 5134.14] Threaten -[5134.14 --> 5134.74] To -[5134.74 --> 5135.86] Undo -[5135.86 --> 5137.46] Us -[5137.46 --> 5138.32] We -[5138.32 --> 5139.00] Will -[5139.00 --> 5139.64] Not -[5139.64 --> 5140.16] Fear -[5140.16 --> 5140.72] For -[5140.72 --> 5141.36] God -[5141.36 --> 5141.86] Hath -[5141.86 --> 5142.86] Will -[5142.86 --> 5144.00] His -[5144.00 --> 5144.58] Truth -[5144.58 --> 5145.00] To -[5145.00 --> 5146.20] Triumph -[5146.20 --> 5146.82] Through -[5146.82 --> 5148.46] Us -[5148.46 --> 5149.36] The -[5149.36 --> 5150.08] Prince -[5150.08 --> 5150.62] Of -[5150.62 --> 5151.34] Darkness -[5151.34 --> 5152.78] Grim -[5152.78 --> 5153.64] We -[5153.64 --> 5154.76] Tremble -[5154.76 --> 5155.38] Not -[5155.38 --> 5155.94] For -[5155.94 --> 5157.08] Him -[5157.08 --> 5158.20] His -[5158.20 --> 5158.78] Rage -[5158.78 --> 5159.20] We -[5159.20 --> 5159.86] Can -[5159.86 --> 5161.44] Endure -[5161.44 --> 5162.46] For -[5162.46 --> 5163.02] Lo -[5163.02 --> 5163.66] His -[5163.66 --> 5164.22] Doom -[5164.22 --> 5164.74] Is -[5164.74 --> 5165.28] Sure -[5165.28 --> 5166.90] One -[5166.90 --> 5167.80] Little -[5167.80 --> 5168.54] Word -[5168.54 --> 5169.04] Shall -[5169.04 --> 5170.68] Threaten -[5170.68 --> 5171.00] God -[5171.00 --> 5171.04] Threaten -[5171.04 --> 5174.54] That -[5174.54 --> 5175.16] Word -[5175.16 --> 5175.68] Above -[5175.68 --> 5176.20] All -[5176.20 --> 5177.78] Earthly -[5177.78 --> 5179.08] Paths -[5179.08 --> 5179.80] No -[5179.80 --> 5180.52] Thanks -[5180.52 --> 5180.96] To -[5180.96 --> 5181.68] Them -[5181.68 --> 5183.48] Abided -[5183.48 --> 5185.26] The -[5185.26 --> 5186.04] Spirit -[5186.04 --> 5187.04] And -[5187.04 --> 5187.52] The -[5187.52 --> 5188.12] Gift -[5188.12 --> 5188.72] Are -[5188.72 --> 5189.74] Ours -[5189.74 --> 5190.70] Through -[5190.70 --> 5191.36] Him -[5191.36 --> 5191.80] Who -[5191.80 --> 5192.50] Weth -[5192.50 --> 5193.00] Us -[5193.00 --> 5195.08] Sighted -[5195.08 --> 5196.22] Let -[5196.22 --> 5196.98] Goods -[5196.98 --> 5197.42] And -[5197.42 --> 5198.22] Kindred -[5198.22 --> 5199.50] Go -[5199.50 --> 5200.66] This -[5200.66 --> 5201.40] Mortal -[5201.40 --> 5202.40] Life -[5202.40 --> 5202.84] All -[5202.84 --> 5203.98] Soul -[5203.98 --> 5205.04] The -[5205.04 --> 5205.98] Body -[5205.98 --> 5206.70] They -[5206.70 --> 5207.34] May -[5207.34 --> 5208.40] Kill -[5208.40 --> 5209.68] God's -[5209.68 --> 5210.22] Truth -[5210.22 --> 5211.82] Abideth -[5211.82 --> 5212.88] Still -[5212.88 --> 5214.02] His -[5214.02 --> 5214.72] Kingdom -[5214.72 --> 5215.68] Is -[5215.68 --> 5216.48] Forever -[5216.48 --> 5227.06] Standing -[5227.06 --> 5227.44] Together -[5227.44 --> 5228.02] Receive -[5228.02 --> 5228.24] The -[5228.24 --> 5228.90] Blessing -[5228.90 --> 5229.46] Of -[5229.46 --> 5229.86] Our -[5229.86 --> 5230.38] God -[5230.38 --> 5230.76] And -[5230.76 --> 5231.02] We -[5231.02 --> 5231.26] Will -[5231.26 --> 5231.64] See -[5231.64 --> 5232.00] You -[5232.00 --> 5232.54] Again -[5232.54 --> 5233.32] In -[5233.32 --> 5233.46] The -[5233.46 --> 5233.62] New -[5233.62 --> 5233.86] Year -[5233.86 --> 5234.84] God -[5234.84 --> 5235.06] Goes -[5235.06 --> 5235.28] With -[5235.28 --> 5235.46] You -[5235.46 --> 5235.66] And -[5235.66 --> 5235.86] So -[5235.86 --> 5236.48] Receive -[5236.48 --> 5237.18] His -[5237.18 --> 5237.64] Blessing -[5237.64 --> 5239.26] May -[5239.26 --> 5239.50] God -[5239.50 --> 5239.66] Go -[5239.66 --> 5240.00] Before -[5240.00 --> 5240.26] You -[5240.26 --> 5240.52] To -[5240.52 --> 5240.88] Prepare -[5240.88 --> 5241.16] A -[5241.16 --> 5241.30] Way -[5241.30 --> 5241.52] For -[5241.52 --> 5241.70] You -[5241.70 --> 5242.42] May -[5242.42 --> 5242.64] God -[5242.64 --> 5242.86] Go -[5242.86 --> 5243.32] Behind -[5243.32 --> 5243.70] You -[5243.70 --> 5244.16] To -[5244.16 --> 5244.52] Protect -[5244.52 --> 5244.78] You -[5244.78 --> 5245.48] May -[5245.48 --> 5245.66] God -[5245.66 --> 5245.82] Go -[5245.82 --> 5246.28] Beneath -[5246.28 --> 5246.56] You -[5246.56 --> 5246.80] To -[5246.80 --> 5247.20] Support -[5247.20 --> 5247.50] You -[5247.50 --> 5247.92] And -[5247.92 --> 5248.06] May -[5248.06 --> 5248.28] God -[5248.28 --> 5248.42] Go -[5248.42 --> 5248.98] Beside -[5248.98 --> 5249.32] You -[5249.32 --> 5249.76] To -[5249.76 --> 5250.16] Befriend -[5250.16 --> 5250.46] You -[5250.46 --> 5250.96] Do -[5250.96 --> 5251.34] Not -[5251.34 --> 5252.06] Be -[5252.06 --> 5252.80] Afraid -[5252.80 --> 5253.68] Let -[5253.68 --> 5253.80] The -[5253.80 --> 5254.18] Blessing -[5254.18 --> 5254.34] Of -[5254.34 --> 5254.56] God -[5254.56 --> 5254.76] Come -[5254.76 --> 5255.00] Upon -[5255.00 --> 5255.14] You -[5255.14 --> 5255.36] Today -[5255.36 --> 5255.58] Do -[5255.58 --> 5255.92] Not -[5255.92 --> 5256.32] Be -[5256.32 --> 5256.94] Afraid -[5256.94 --> 5257.46] But -[5257.46 --> 5257.80] Go -[5257.80 --> 5258.54] In -[5258.54 --> 5259.02] Peace -[5259.02 --> 5259.42] To -[5259.42 --> 5259.84] Love -[5259.84 --> 5260.42] And -[5260.42 --> 5260.88] Serve -[5260.88 --> 5261.46] The -[5261.46 --> 5261.74] Lord -[5261.74 --> 5263.42] Amen -[5263.42 --> 5271.06] Should -[5271.06 --> 5271.10] Should -[5271.10 --> 5271.12] Should -[5271.12 --> 5271.14] Should -[5271.14 --> 5272.38] Nothing -[5272.38 --> 5273.36] Of -[5273.36 --> 5274.16] Our -[5274.16 --> 5275.46] Efforts -[5275.46 --> 5275.96] Stand -[5275.96 --> 5276.98] No -[5276.98 --> 5278.70] Legacy -[5278.70 --> 5281.72] Survive -[5281.72 --> 5283.26] Unless -[5283.26 --> 5284.52] The -[5284.52 --> 5285.30] Lord -[5285.30 --> 5286.08] Does -[5286.08 --> 5287.14] Raise -[5287.14 --> 5287.54] The -[5287.54 --> 5288.04] House -[5288.04 --> 5289.20] In -[5289.20 --> 5290.40] Bain -[5290.40 --> 5290.80] It's -[5290.80 --> 5292.04] Builder -[5292.04 --> 5293.74] Strive -[5293.74 --> 5294.98] To -[5294.98 --> 5295.88] You -[5295.88 --> 5296.84] Who -[5296.84 --> 5297.48] Boast -[5297.48 --> 5299.80] Tomorrow's -[5299.80 --> 5300.12] Day -[5300.12 --> 5301.20] Tell -[5301.20 --> 5302.04] Me -[5302.04 --> 5302.84] What -[5302.84 --> 5303.50] Is -[5303.50 --> 5304.16] Your -[5304.16 --> 5305.80] Life -[5305.80 --> 5307.32] A -[5307.32 --> 5308.38] Mist -[5308.38 --> 5308.80] That -[5308.80 --> 5310.34] Vanishes -[5310.34 --> 5311.82] At -[5311.82 --> 5312.28] Dawn -[5312.28 --> 5313.42] All -[5313.42 --> 5314.86] Glory -[5314.86 --> 5315.54] Be -[5315.54 --> 5316.24] To -[5316.24 --> 5318.18] Christ -[5318.18 --> 5319.78] All -[5319.78 --> 5321.24] Glory -[5321.24 --> 5322.18] Be -[5322.18 --> 5322.76] To -[5322.76 --> 5324.10] Christ -[5324.10 --> 5324.56] Our -[5324.56 --> 5324.90] King -[5324.90 --> 5326.10] All -[5326.10 --> 5327.42] Glory -[5327.42 --> 5328.10] Be -[5328.10 --> 5328.98] To -[5328.98 --> 5330.90] Christ -[5330.90 --> 5332.34] His -[5332.34 --> 5333.44] Rule -[5333.44 --> 5333.88] And -[5333.88 --> 5334.68] Rain -[5334.68 --> 5335.48] Will -[5335.48 --> 5336.80] Ever -[5336.80 --> 5337.44] Sing -[5337.44 --> 5338.64] All -[5338.64 --> 5340.16] Glory -[5340.16 --> 5340.90] Be -[5340.90 --> 5341.72] To -[5341.72 --> 5343.60] Christ -[5343.60 --> 5346.08] His -[5346.08 --> 5346.84] Will -[5346.84 --> 5347.12] Be -[5347.12 --> 5347.64] Done -[5347.64 --> 5348.14] His -[5348.14 --> 5348.96] Kingdom -[5348.96 --> 5349.66] Come -[5349.66 --> 5350.30] On -[5350.30 --> 5350.92] Earth -[5350.92 --> 5351.28] As -[5351.28 --> 5351.76] His -[5351.76 --> 5352.34] Above -[5352.34 --> 5354.06] Who -[5354.06 --> 5354.96] Is -[5354.96 --> 5355.68] Himself -[5355.68 --> 5356.24] Our -[5356.24 --> 5357.06] David -[5357.06 --> 5357.60] Friend -[5357.60 --> 5358.26] Praise -[5358.26 --> 5358.94] Him -[5358.94 --> 5359.24] The -[5359.24 --> 5359.78] Lord -[5359.78 --> 5360.24] Of -[5360.24 --> 5361.30] Love -[5361.30 --> 5362.18] And -[5362.18 --> 5362.98] Him -[5362.98 --> 5363.22] In -[5363.22 --> 5363.84] Water -[5363.84 --> 5365.16] Sons -[5365.16 --> 5365.72] Find -[5365.72 --> 5366.20] The -[5366.20 --> 5366.96] Thirsty -[5366.96 --> 5367.62] With -[5367.62 --> 5368.06] The -[5368.06 --> 5369.22] Christ -[5369.22 --> 5370.00] Will -[5370.00 --> 5370.84] Take -[5370.84 --> 5371.06] The -[5371.06 --> 5371.58] Thou -[5371.58 --> 5371.96] The -[5371.96 --> 5372.98] Finest -[5372.98 --> 5373.44] And -[5373.44 --> 5373.98] All -[5373.98 --> 5374.80] Glory -[5374.80 --> 5375.38] Be -[5375.38 --> 5375.64] To -[5375.64 --> 5376.64] Christ -[5376.64 --> 5377.80] All -[5377.80 --> 5378.72] Glory -[5378.72 --> 5379.72] To -[5379.72 --> 5380.54] Christ -[5380.54 --> 5381.74] All -[5381.74 --> 5382.68] Glory -[5382.68 --> 5383.28] Be -[5383.28 --> 5383.64] To -[5383.64 --> 5384.82] Christ -[5384.82 --> 5385.76] His -[5385.76 --> 5386.44] Rule -[5386.44 --> 5386.76] And -[5386.76 --> 5387.22] Great -[5387.22 --> 5387.72] Will -[5387.72 --> 5388.44] End -[5388.44 --> 5390.60] Are -[5390.60 --> 5398.88] Saved -[5398.88 --> 5403.18] Him -[5403.18 --> 5406.72] Is -[5406.72 --> 5407.60] So -[5407.60 --> 5435.60] as -[5437.60 --> 5440.64] All glory be to Christ. -[5440.64 --> 5445.40] All glory be to Christ our King. -[5445.68 --> 5449.94] All glory be to Christ. -[5450.46 --> 5456.04] His rule and reign will ever sing. -[5456.50 --> 5461.76] All glory be to Christ. -[5467.60 --> 5497.58] All glory be to Christ. -[5497.60 --> 5527.58] All glory be to Christ. -[5527.60 --> 5557.58] All glory be to Christ. -[5557.60 --> 5559.60] All glory be to Christ. -[5587.60 --> 5589.60] All glory be to Christ. -[5617.60 --> 5619.60] All glory be to Christ. -[5647.60 --> 5649.60] All glory be to Christ. -[5677.60 --> 5679.60] All glory be to Christ. -[5679.60 --> 5683.60] All glory be to Christ. -[5683.60 --> 5687.60] All glory be to Christ. -[5687.60 --> 5717.58] Thank you. -[5717.60 --> 5747.58] Thank you. -[5747.60 --> 5777.58] Thank you. diff --git "a/New Year's Eve - Friday, December 31, 2021 \357\275\234 6_30pm_summary.txt" "b/New Year's Eve - Friday, December 31, 2021 \357\275\234 6_30pm_summary.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index a1acb3c6b4ac4c9c988320c8872d2e03b3c9355b..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/New Year's Eve - Friday, December 31, 2021 \357\275\234 6_30pm_summary.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,111 +0,0 @@ -• Welcoming worship and reflection on God's provision -• Reflecting theologically and prayerfully on God's work -• Encouraging a posture of receptivity to God's presence -• Worship and praise, including repetitive declarations about God's greatness -• Expressions of hope and confidence in Christ -• Songs of hallelujah and praise -• Christ's life and death -• Heavenly reward and salvation -• Sin and death destroyed -• Endless joy in heaven -• Christ as hope in life and death -• Salvation through Jesus' name alone -• Jesus as truth, way, and life -• Holy Trinity adoration -• Praise to God throughout eternity -• Hallelujah and worship anthems -• Scripture readings and prayers -• Longing for light, truth, and hope in darkness and trouble -• Christ as the source of light and salvation -• The importance of serving one another and making God's kingdom come -• Reflections on suffering and trust in God's love and sovereignty -• Praise and worship through songs and prayers -• The speaker leads a prayer service to reflect on the past year, particularly in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. -• They emphasize the importance of praying scripture as a means of connecting with God's word and seeking guidance. -• The speaker reflects on the challenges faced by many in the past year, including job loss, illness, natural disasters, and social unrest. -• They draw on Jesus' teachings about the inevitability of trouble and hardship, but also emphasize His promise to overcome the world. -• The prayer service includes petitions for God's protection, guidance, and provision, as well as requests for unity and faithfulness among believers. -• Mourning and celebration of loved ones who have passed away -• Welcoming new members into the church family -• Baptisms and welcoming children into the church fellowship -• Praying for those who have transferred to other churches or are still in the process of joining the church family -• Prayer for reconciliation and restoration among brothers and sisters -• Celebrating God's work and presence in the lives of individuals and the community -• Reference to a poem by Robert Burns, "To a Mouse" -• Reflection on the year 2021 and how it did not live up to expectations -• Discussion of various difficulties faced in 2021, including natural disasters, inflation, supply chain issues, and COVID-19 -• Mention of some positive aspects of 2021, such as new beginnings and celebrations -• Reference to Isaiah 43:2 and the importance of grounding oneself in God's presence -• God's presence means protection and comfort, but it doesn't necessarily mean exemption from difficulties. -• Christians will face trials, hardships, and pain in life, including death and disease. -• Good Christian living does not guarantee escape from struggles. -• Many people have lost their faith or rejected God due to unrealistic expectations about the blessings of a "good" life. -• The speaker contrasts the idea that being a Christian makes life easier with the reality of facing unique challenges and hardships. -• The speaker discusses the difficulty of living a sexually obedient life in a culture that encourages licentious behavior. -• Paul's words to Timothy are referenced, stating that those who want to live a godly life will be persecuted. -• The speaker reflects on humanity's shared experience of suffering and frustration with social issues, such as injustice and inaction. -• The importance of empathy and compassion towards others is emphasized, even if they do not share the same beliefs. -• Christian experience of tribulation and trial -• Jesus' promise to be with believers through trials -• God's presence in times of darkness and faithlessness -• The ontological reality that God is always present with us, as stated in Isaiah 41:10-14 -• The concept of ownership and belonging to God -• The cost of salvation through Jesus Christ -• God's presence with His people, even in difficult times -• The significance of Emmanuel (God with us) in Christianity -• Matthew 28:1-8, the story of Mary visiting Jesus' tomb after his resurrection -• Jesus has risen -• Women are told to tell the disciples that Jesus will meet them in Galilee -• Jesus appears to the women, who are initially terrified but overjoyed -• Jesus tells the women not to be afraid -• He says his resurrection is a salvific and theological event, related to salvation and God's purpose -• He commands the women (and others) not to be afraid of death or sin, as they have been destroyed by his resurrection -• Eternal life is available through him. -• Pandemics, job loss, or scarcity do not need to cause fear -• The speaker is present with the congregation during difficult times -• Death is seen as "dead" and God's presence should be remembered and relied upon -• The last words of Jesus after his resurrection are mentioned (Matthew 28:20) -• Key phrases from Jesus' final message, such as "I am with you always", are emphasized -• The importance of justice and mercy -• God's presence means not being overcome by fear or crisis -• Becoming an "overcomer" through redemption and transformation -• Jesus' promise to give the right to eat from the tree of life to those who overcome -• Being transformed into an overcomer rather than being overcome -• God's presence means protection and safety -• God will go before, behind, beneath, and beside the speaker to support them -• The speaker should not be afraid, but instead receive God's blessing and peace -• The speaker is encouraged to love and serve the Lord as they enter a new year -• The speaker acknowledges a risk in sharing their thoughts, potentially being left with the burden of dealing with anxiety and fear -• The speaker shares that it's possible listeners will be inspired to overcome their fears and live boldly after hearing their message -• A problem mentioned is not having dealt with one's own fear, which causes anxiety and can make it hard to rejoice and live boldly in a chaotic world -• The speaker references the biblical book of Isaiah as a source of encouragement and inspiration to overcome disillusionment and apathy -• The gospel guarantee is not about human effort or understanding, but rather it's based on God's own promise and love for humanity. -• This promise guarantees that those who put their trust in God will be protected from harm and not burned by the fires of life. -• God's guarantee is not dependent on individual worthiness or faithfulness, but rather it's a reflection of His great love and affection for each person. -• The gospel guarantee is also not about achieving perfection or overcoming sin through human effort, but rather it's a statement of God's love and acceptance in spite of humanity's sinful nature. -• The concept of Jesus' sacrifice and its significance -• God's love, grace, and forgiveness -• Sin, death, and hell as conquered by Jesus -• Eternal life and the victory in Jesus Christ -• Trusting in God's sovereignty and timing -• The struggle between sin and redemption in creation -• Existential crisis and finding purpose as Christians -• Overcoming fear, disillusionment, and apathy in times of trial -• Placing hope in God and Jesus Christ rather than human systems or solutions -• Responding to challenges with generosity, grace, and abundance -• Confronting climate change, pandemics, politics, law, injustice, poverty, death, disease, persecution, martyrdom, and other troubles -• Human nature and the need for change -• Importance of Jesus in transforming hearts and minds -• Distinction between good works and reliance on Jesus -• Hope and trust in Jesus as a source of comfort and strength -• Prayer for guidance, power, and meaningful change -• Faithfulness to God's purposes and presence in daily life -• Psalm or hymn about God's presence and protection -• Reference to a song, "Through the Calm and Through the Storm" -• Verses about trust in God during difficult times -• Praise and worship of Christ as King -• Discussion of God's character and attributes (e.g. loving, guiding) -• Quotes from Scripture (Psalm 23:4, Psalm 118:24) -• Glory to Christ -• His rule and reign -• Throne of Christ \ No newline at end of file diff --git "a/New Year's Eve - Friday, December 31, 2021 \357\275\234 6_30pm_transcript.txt" "b/New Year's Eve - Friday, December 31, 2021 \357\275\234 6_30pm_transcript.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 981e4329919ef5739f715dc1393649fa3a6a2c42..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/New Year's Eve - Friday, December 31, 2021 \357\275\234 6_30pm_transcript.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2373 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 92.00] Thank you. -[92.00 --> 94.00] Thank you. -[94.00 --> 96.00] Thank you. -[102.00 --> 106.00] Good evening. -[106.00 --> 108.30] The Lord speaks from on high. -[108.30 --> 112.30] Welcome to worship tonight. -[112.30 --> 115.84] For those of you who are gathered here, welcome to this space. -[115.94 --> 120.30] For those of you who are joining us online, welcome to you as well. -[120.30 --> 127.26] We have the opportunity to worship God tonight at the end of the year and the ways to look -[127.26 --> 134.10] back on the Lord's provision and anticipate his provision as we go forward into the next -[134.10 --> 134.60] year. -[134.60 --> 140.72] And so it's good for us to gather in this way to reflect theologically and prayerfully -[140.72 --> 148.08] on the ways that we have seen God at work, especially after this past year, especially -[148.08 --> 150.00] after this past two years. -[150.00 --> 157.98] It's so important for us to develop the eyes and the faith that sees God at work in the -[157.98 --> 158.24] world. -[158.48 --> 160.92] That's what we are here to do this evening. -[161.72 --> 166.50] I'm going to invite you, whether you're here present or at home, to just adopt a posture -[166.50 --> 167.30] of receipt. -[167.58 --> 169.96] God's going to welcome us into his presence tonight. -[169.96 --> 172.38] So maybe you stand, hold your hands out. -[172.74 --> 174.52] If you're at home, hold your hands out. -[174.64 --> 179.54] Receive God's greeting as we come to worship him. -[182.34 --> 189.46] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ through the -[189.46 --> 191.86] presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[192.66 --> 194.96] All God's people said, amen. -[195.34 --> 196.30] Let's worship God tonight. -[199.96 --> 211.18] Forget the former things. -[211.76 --> 213.48] Do not dwell on the past. -[214.22 --> 216.08] See, I am doing a new thing. -[216.38 --> 217.28] Now it springs up. -[217.48 --> 218.56] Do you not perceive it? -[219.24 --> 222.82] I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland. -[223.54 --> 228.78] The wild animals honor me, the jackals and the owls, because I provide water in the desert -[228.78 --> 236.08] and streams in the wasteland to give drink to my people, my chosen, the people I have formed -[236.08 --> 238.78] for myself, that they may proclaim my praise. -[238.78 --> 259.60] Great is he who's the king of kings and the lord of lords, he is wonderful. -[259.60 --> 274.04] Great is he who's the king of kings and the lord of lords, he is wonderful. -[274.04 --> 288.84] Great is he who's the king of kings and the lord of lords, he is wonderful. -[288.84 --> 303.84] Great is he who's the king of kings and the lord of lords, he is wonderful. -[303.84 --> 319.84] Great is he who's the king of kings and the lord of lords, he is wonderful. -[319.84 --> 333.84] Great is he who's the king of kings and the lord of lords, he is wonderful. -[333.84 --> 347.84] Great is he who's the king of kings and the lord of lords, he is wonderful. -[347.84 --> 377.82] Great is he who's the king of kings and the lord of lords, he is wonderful. -[377.82 --> 382.82] Great is he who's the king of kings and the lord of lords, and the lord of lords, he is wonderful. -[382.82 --> 389.88] Wisdom, power and love, our God is an awesome God. -[389.88 --> 400.82] Our God is an awesome God, He reigns from heaven above with wisdom. -[400.82 --> 406.56] Power and love, our God is an awesome God. -[406.56 --> 417.56] Our God is an awesome God, He reigns from heaven above with wisdom. -[417.56 --> 423.24] Power and love, our God is an awesome God. -[423.24 --> 433.98] Our God is an awesome God, He reigns from heaven above with wisdom. -[433.98 --> 439.44] Power and love, our God is an awesome God. -[439.44 --> 449.90] Our God is an awesome God, He reigns from heaven above with wisdom. -[449.90 --> 455.22] Power and love, our God is an awesome God. -[455.22 --> 465.68] Our God is an awesome God, He reigns from heaven above with wisdom. -[465.68 --> 471.10] Power and love, our God is an awesome God. -[471.62 --> 477.74] Our God is an awesome God. -[479.90 --> 498.90] Power and love, our God is an awesome God. -[498.90 --> 505.42] What is our hope in life and death? -[506.22 --> 509.90] Christ alone, Christ alone. -[509.90 --> 515.10] What is our only confidence? -[516.10 --> 520.76] That our souls to Him belong. -[521.12 --> 526.04] Who holds our days within His hands? -[526.04 --> 531.04] What comes apart from His command? -[531.04 --> 536.28] And what will keep us to the end? -[536.28 --> 542.30] The love of Christ in which we stand? -[544.04 --> 549.18] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[549.18 --> 554.18] Our hope springs eternal. -[554.18 --> 555.18] Our hope springs eternal. -[555.18 --> 559.18] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[559.18 --> 563.18] Now and ever we confess. -[563.18 --> 568.18] Christ our hope in life and death. -[568.18 --> 575.18] Christ our hope, our God is an awesome God. -[575.18 --> 580.18] But truth can calm the troubled soul. -[580.18 --> 585.18] God is good. -[585.18 --> 591.08] Where is His grace and goodness stoned -[591.08 --> 596.22] In our great Redeemer's blood -[596.22 --> 601.16] Who holds our faith when fears arise -[601.16 --> 606.20] Who stands above the stormy trial -[606.20 --> 611.44] Who sends the waves that bring us high -[611.44 --> 618.44] Unto the shore, the rock of Christ -[619.00 --> 624.22] O sing hallelujah -[624.22 --> 629.34] Our hope springs eternal -[629.34 --> 634.36] O sing hallelujah -[634.36 --> 638.86] Now and ever we confess -[638.86 --> 643.86] Christ our hope in life and death -[643.86 --> 656.00] Unto the grave, what will we sing? -[656.68 --> 660.86] Christ He lives, Christ He lives -[660.86 --> 666.82] And what reward will heaven bring? -[668.86 --> 670.86] Everlasting life within -[670.86 --> 677.36] There we will rise to meet the Lord -[677.36 --> 681.86] Then sin and death will be destroyed -[681.86 --> 687.86] And we will feast in endless joy -[687.86 --> 694.86] When Christ is ours forever alone -[694.86 --> 700.86] O sing hallelujah -[700.86 --> 705.86] Our hope springs eternal -[705.86 --> 710.86] O sing hallelujah -[710.86 --> 714.86] Now and ever we confess -[714.86 --> 719.86] Christ our hope in life and death -[719.86 --> 721.86] Now and ever we confess -[721.86 --> 726.86] Christ our hope in life and death -[726.86 --> 727.86] Now and ever we confess -[727.86 --> 730.86] Christ our hope in life and death -[730.86 --> 732.86] Now and ever we confess -[732.86 --> 739.86] Christ our hope in life and death -[739.86 --> 746.86] Christ our hope in life and death -[746.86 --> 748.86] Now and ever we confess -[748.86 --> 754.86] Christ our hope in life and death -[754.86 --> 769.86] There is salvation in no one else but you, Jesus -[769.86 --> 773.86] For there is no other name given among men by which we are saved -[773.86 --> 776.86] You are our hope when our world is falling apart -[776.86 --> 780.86] You are our way when our path is all but clear -[780.86 --> 784.86] You are our truth when lies invade our minds -[784.86 --> 787.86] You are our life even in the face of death -[787.86 --> 789.86] Our time is in your hands -[789.86 --> 793.86] You are the hope that sustains us to the very end -[803.86 --> 823.86] You are our love when our world is falling apart -[823.86 --> 830.86] Holy, holy, holy -[830.86 --> 836.86] Lord God Almighty -[836.86 --> 842.86] Early in the morning -[842.86 --> 849.86] Our song shall rise to Thee -[849.86 --> 856.86] Holy, holy, holy -[856.86 --> 863.86] merciful and mighty -[863.86 --> 868.86] God in the present -[868.86 --> 873.86] Blessed Trinity -[873.86 --> 879.86] Holy, holy, holy -[879.86 --> 884.86] Holy, holy -[884.86 --> 891.38] All the saints adore thee, -[891.38 --> 897.38] Casting down their loaded crowns -[898.02 --> 903.82] Around the glassy sea. -[905.42 --> 911.68] Cherubim and Seraphim -[911.68 --> 918.50] Falling down before thee, -[918.50 --> 925.46] O'er the ten-part end -[925.46 --> 930.98] Evermore shall be. -[932.66 --> 938.36] Holy, holy, holy -[938.36 --> 945.36] Though the darkness hide thee, -[946.80 --> 952.50] Though the eye may blind by sin, -[952.90 --> 958.36] Thy glory may not see. -[958.36 --> 966.58] Only thou art holy, -[967.58 --> 974.42] There is none beside thee, -[975.10 --> 980.40] Perfect in power, -[980.40 --> 985.72] In love and purity. -[988.78 --> 994.76] Holy, holy, holy -[994.76 --> 1001.76] Lord God almighty, -[1001.76 --> 1009.40] All thy works shall praise thy name, -[1009.40 --> 1014.98] In earth and sky and sea. -[1014.98 --> 1023.20] Holy, holy, holy -[1023.20 --> 1030.30] Merciful and mighty -[1030.30 --> 1037.36] God in three persons -[1037.36 --> 1042.58] Blessed Trinity -[1042.58 --> 1072.56] O'er the ten-part end -[1072.56 --> 1077.56] All hail Emmanuel -[1077.56 --> 1084.72] King of kings, Lord of lords, -[1084.72 --> 1086.56] Bright morning star -[1086.56 --> 1093.56] And throughout eternity -[1093.56 --> 1095.56] I'll sing your praise, -[1095.56 --> 1097.56] I'll sing your praise, -[1097.56 --> 1102.78] And I'll reign with you -[1102.78 --> 1107.78] Throughout eternity -[1107.78 --> 1111.78] All hail King Jesus -[1111.78 --> 1113.78] All hail Emmanuel -[1113.78 --> 1115.78] All hail Emmanuel -[1115.78 --> 1119.78] King of kings, Lord of lords, -[1119.78 --> 1121.78] Bright morning star -[1121.78 --> 1123.78] Lord of lords, -[1123.78 --> 1125.78] Lord of lords, -[1125.78 --> 1126.78] Bright morning star -[1126.78 --> 1128.78] And throughout eternity -[1128.78 --> 1132.78] And throughout eternity -[1132.78 --> 1134.78] I'll sing your praise, -[1134.78 --> 1136.78] And I'll reign with you -[1136.78 --> 1138.78] Throughout eternity -[1138.78 --> 1139.78] And I'll reign with you -[1139.78 --> 1140.78] And I'll reign with you -[1140.78 --> 1145.78] Throughout eternity -[1145.78 --> 1146.78] All hail King of lords, -[1146.78 --> 1147.78] A hail of lords, -[1147.78 --> 1148.78] All hail King Jesus -[1148.78 --> 1150.78] All hail Emmanuel -[1150.78 --> 1155.44] All hail Emmanuel -[1155.44 --> 1161.78] King of kings, Lord of lords -[1162.34 --> 1165.12] Bright warning song -[1165.12 --> 1170.78] And throughout eternity -[1171.30 --> 1175.78] I'll sing your praises -[1175.78 --> 1183.46] And I'll reign with you throughout eternity -[1183.46 --> 1191.46] Come all you who are thirsty -[1191.46 --> 1193.02] Come to the waters -[1193.02 --> 1194.86] And you who have no money -[1194.86 --> 1196.60] Come, buy and eat -[1196.60 --> 1199.04] Come, buy wine and milk -[1199.04 --> 1200.76] Without money and without price -[1200.76 --> 1203.30] Why spend money on what is not bread -[1203.30 --> 1205.48] And your labor on what does not satisfy -[1205.48 --> 1207.46] Listen, listen to me -[1207.46 --> 1208.86] And eat what is good -[1208.86 --> 1211.34] And you will delight to the richest of fare -[1211.34 --> 1213.80] Give ear and come to me -[1213.80 --> 1215.68] Hear that your soul may live -[1215.68 --> 1218.56] I will make you an everlasting covenant -[1218.56 --> 1221.48] My steadfast love promised to David -[1221.48 --> 1224.58] Amen -[1224.58 --> 1226.56] Is there to be a world的 as truck -[1226.56 --> 1226.94] And that's what's going on -[1226.94 --> 1229.68] You'll see94 -[1229.68 --> 1230.96] Yes, amen -[1231.34 --> 1234.24] And we'll seecheck theanç -[1234.42 --> 1234.94] And we'll seefaith -[1234.94 --> 1236.76] Our lives -[1236.76 --> 1238.30] Their heart -[1238.70 --> 1240.58] Is there a new territory -[1240.58 --> 1241.30] Let's pray -[1241.30 --> 1242.46] And hope -[1242.46 --> 1243.22] The name -[1243.40 --> 1244.16] Is there anything -[1244.16 --> 1244.58] What do you think -[1244.80 --> 1245.80] It's all -[1245.80 --> 1247.42] The Mang -[1247.42 --> 1248.34] I love -[1248.34 --> 1264.12] Longing for light, we wait in darkness. -[1264.58 --> 1269.06] Longing for truth, we turn to you. -[1269.06 --> 1274.32] Make us your own, your holy people. -[1274.32 --> 1279.72] Light for the world to see. -[1280.24 --> 1283.82] Christ be your light. -[1284.24 --> 1289.54] Shine in our hearts, shine through the darkness. -[1290.66 --> 1294.04] Christ be your light. -[1294.04 --> 1299.34] Shine in your church, gather today. -[1299.34 --> 1308.26] Longing for peace, our world is troubled. -[1308.26 --> 1313.48] Longing for hope, many despair. -[1313.48 --> 1318.88] Your word alone has power to save us. -[1319.24 --> 1323.90] Make us your living voice. -[1324.40 --> 1327.76] Christ be your light. -[1328.18 --> 1333.54] Shine in our hearts, shine through the darkness. -[1333.54 --> 1337.46] Christ be your light. -[1337.46 --> 1343.46] Shine in your church, gather today. -[1347.46 --> 1352.14] Longing for food, many are hungry. -[1352.86 --> 1357.50] Longing for water, many still thirst. -[1357.50 --> 1359.50] Make us your bread. -[1359.50 --> 1360.50] Make us your bread. -[1360.50 --> 1366.50] Broken for others, shared until all are fed. -[1368.42 --> 1371.88] Christ be your light. -[1372.34 --> 1377.68] Shine in our hearts, shine through the darkness. -[1377.68 --> 1379.68] Christ be your light. -[1379.68 --> 1381.68] Rise be your light. -[1381.68 --> 1386.68] Shine in your church, gather today. -[1386.68 --> 1416.66] Shine in your church, pray today. -[1416.66 --> 1422.18] Shine in our hearts, shine through the darkness. -[1423.24 --> 1431.14] Christ being our light, shine in your church, gather today. -[1435.64 --> 1445.14] Many the gifts, many the people, many the hearts that yearn to belong. -[1445.14 --> 1455.14] Let us be servants to one another, making your kingdom come. -[1456.88 --> 1466.02] Rise, be our light, shine in our hearts, shine through the darkness. -[1466.02 --> 1475.70] Rise, be our light, shine in your church, gather today. -[1475.70 --> 1505.68] Rise, be our light. -[1505.70 --> 1506.68] Rise, be our light. -[1506.68 --> 1507.36] Rise, be our light. -[1507.36 --> 1509.16] Rise, be our light. -[1509.16 --> 1517.50] Return to the Lord, the one who's broken, the one who's torn me apart. -[1517.50 --> 1523.34] You struck doubt to bind me up -[1523.34 --> 1527.34] You say you do it all in love -[1527.34 --> 1532.88] That I might know you in your suffering -[1532.88 --> 1540.34] Though you slay me -[1540.34 --> 1543.88] Yet I will praise you -[1543.88 --> 1547.46] Though you take from me -[1547.46 --> 1551.44] I will bless your name -[1551.44 --> 1555.46] Though you ruin me -[1556.14 --> 1559.32] Still I will worship -[1559.32 --> 1565.46] Sing a song to the one who's all I need -[1565.46 --> 1575.72] My heart and flesh may fail -[1575.72 --> 1579.70] The earth below gave way -[1579.70 --> 1583.68] With my eyes, with my eyes -[1583.68 --> 1587.68] I see the Lord -[1587.68 --> 1591.56] Lifted high upon that day -[1591.56 --> 1595.68] Before the Lamb that was slain -[1595.68 --> 1603.66] And I'll know every tear was worth it all -[1603.66 --> 1607.64] Though you slay me -[1607.64 --> 1609.64] Though you slay me -[1609.64 --> 1611.64] Yet I will praise you -[1611.64 --> 1615.52] Though you take from me -[1615.52 --> 1619.50] I will bless your name -[1619.50 --> 1623.50] Though you ruin me -[1623.50 --> 1627.48] Still I will worship -[1627.48 --> 1628.48] And I will bless you -[1628.48 --> 1629.46] I will worship you -[1629.46 --> 1631.46] And the one who's all I need -[1631.46 --> 1638.46] all I need -[1642.14 --> 1645.46] Oh tonight I'm crying out -[1645.46 --> 1650.46] Let this cup pass from me now -[1650.46 --> 1656.46] You're still more than I need -[1656.46 --> 1663.46] You're enough for me -[1664.46 --> 1671.46] You're enough for me -[1673.46 --> 1677.46] Though you slay me -[1678.46 --> 1681.46] Yet I will praise you -[1681.46 --> 1685.46] Though you take from me -[1685.46 --> 1689.46] I will bless your name -[1689.46 --> 1693.46] Though you ruin me -[1694.46 --> 1697.46] Still I will worship -[1697.46 --> 1699.46] Sing a song -[1699.46 --> 1701.46] Sing a song -[1701.46 --> 1705.46] Though you slay me -[1705.46 --> 1709.46] To the one who's all I need -[1709.46 --> 1739.46] -[1739.46 --> 1741.46] All I need -[1741.46 --> 1745.46] To the one who's all I need -[1745.46 --> 1747.46] To the one who's all I need -[1747.46 --> 1749.46] To the one who's all I need -[1749.46 --> 1753.46] I will worship you -[1753.46 --> 1755.46] To be -[1755.46 --> 1775.18] it's traditional uh it's part of this type of service kind of at year's end to -[1775.18 --> 1782.26] think back on the year that was in prayer together and so i'm going to lead you -[1782.26 --> 1792.18] in the great prayer at year's end invite you to join your heart with me as we pray together -[1792.18 --> 1805.72] one of the spiritual disciplines one of the the spiritual practices that i have -[1805.72 --> 1814.38] adopted in my life is not just reading scripture but praying scripture praying through god's word -[1814.38 --> 1821.48] as he reveals himself to us in part because i really believe that the the spirit intercedes with -[1821.48 --> 1828.30] groans and utterances and literal words revealed on the page that we might pray to god but also -[1828.30 --> 1835.98] because god's revealed word is just that it is his holy and perfect word and so what better way -[1835.98 --> 1841.54] to pray than with the words that god himself has given us and so the prayer that i have shaped here -[1841.54 --> 1846.76] and the time that we'll spend is crafted around scripture verses and so you will hear that -[1846.76 --> 1854.14] throughout and i trust that it will impress upon your heart as we pray together let's pray -[1854.14 --> 1865.02] abba father -[1865.02 --> 1878.14] on this night together we cry out to you on this night together we cry hallowed be your name -[1878.14 --> 1888.76] your kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven as we reflect on this year past lord god we know that -[1888.76 --> 1895.02] a thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by or like a watch in the night that -[1895.02 --> 1903.80] is we know that they might pass quickly what is a day or a year compared to the infinity of eternity -[1903.80 --> 1909.80] in which you reside and yet we also know that we also know that we know that we know that we know that -[1909.80 --> 1916.92] with the lord a day is like a thousand years and a thousand years are like a day and the reality -[1916.92 --> 1926.36] of time passing and our experience of time passing are not yours nor are they always the same -[1926.36 --> 1939.74] and at times seasons rush by circumstances are fleeting and at other times days drag on and years -[1939.74 --> 1943.80] seem to take a lifetime to endure -[1943.80 --> 1954.20] for many of us lord this past year was just such a year -[1954.20 --> 1963.80] covid 19 pandemic continues to be present with us and in reality present with us each in different and -[1963.80 --> 1972.88] unique ways some have lost jobs and started new ones some are still looking some have experienced job -[1972.88 --> 1979.34] changes in the midst of this and are and are prospering schools have been impacted and therefore kids have been -[1979.34 --> 1989.98] impacted church and our community and life together has been impacted sports clubs hobbies so much of our life has been -[1989.98 --> 1995.28] impacted by this pandemic over these last coming on two years now -[1995.28 --> 2003.54] now add to all of that anxiety that's already in the mix this year we had record-breaking heat -[2003.54 --> 2010.54] and now we have record-breaking cold creation is groaning under the weight of sin -[2010.54 --> 2014.60] wildfires destroyed whole towns -[2014.60 --> 2020.54] whole businesses were consumed in the flames -[2020.54 --> 2029.82] floods then washed away roads and drowned out houses and businesses farms destroyed produce and animals lost -[2029.82 --> 2041.44] in this world you will have trouble jesus says lord we are in trouble this was a year -[2041.44 --> 2043.02] trouble -[2043.02 --> 2049.78] but take heart i have overcome the world jesus continues -[2049.78 --> 2053.92] you will hear of wars and and rumors of wars -[2053.92 --> 2059.74] but see to it that you are not alarmed such things must happen but the end is still to come -[2059.74 --> 2064.62] nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom there will be famines and earthquakes in -[2064.62 --> 2069.00] various places and all these things are the beginning of birth pains -[2069.00 --> 2075.22] then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death and you will be hated by all nations -[2075.22 --> 2081.74] because of me says jesus and at that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other -[2081.74 --> 2086.00] keep us faithful lord god -[2086.00 --> 2092.58] keep us loving each other loving our neighbors -[2092.58 --> 2098.62] we so easily divide and separate we are so easily -[2098.62 --> 2108.94] polarized one camp to another left to right progressive conservative we are so easily split and we so easily split -[2108.94 --> 2111.82] help us we pray -[2111.82 --> 2112.20] we pray -[2112.20 --> 2118.82] be united as a family of god to be united as the church of christ -[2118.82 --> 2124.42] the one who stands firm to the end -[2124.42 --> 2125.84] will be saved -[2125.84 --> 2131.92] and this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations -[2131.92 --> 2138.52] and then the end will come come quickly lord jesus come quickly -[2138.52 --> 2158.92] and as we cry out here and now for your kingdom to come in fullness we cry out also for your kingdom to come more and more in our hearts and minds help us today and every day to take captive every thought and make it obedient to christ -[2158.92 --> 2162.36] our lord -[2162.36 --> 2163.94] and our god -[2163.94 --> 2167.84] we mourn with those -[2167.84 --> 2169.12] who mourn -[2169.12 --> 2172.20] and we rejoice with those -[2172.20 --> 2173.24] who rejoice -[2173.24 --> 2176.52] looking back on the year that was -[2176.52 --> 2178.84] even in light of everything that -[2178.84 --> 2181.92] has happened we have reasons for both mourning -[2181.92 --> 2183.30] and even -[2183.30 --> 2185.04] for rejoicing -[2188.92 --> 2191.16] father god many of us -[2191.16 --> 2193.40] all of us -[2193.40 --> 2195.72] this year -[2195.72 --> 2197.94] mourned a loss -[2197.94 --> 2200.30] we mourned -[2200.30 --> 2201.16] sons -[2201.16 --> 2202.90] and daughters -[2202.90 --> 2206.10] we mourned moms and dads -[2206.10 --> 2207.02] brothers and sisters -[2207.02 --> 2207.68] grandparents -[2207.68 --> 2209.04] and friends -[2209.04 --> 2212.92] we mourned those who died -[2212.92 --> 2215.22] too soon and who were taken from us -[2215.22 --> 2216.18] too quickly -[2216.18 --> 2225.12] we mourned those who were once part of our church family and those who are loved by members of our church family -[2225.12 --> 2228.92] in our mourning -[2228.92 --> 2232.10] we celebrated the life of peter boat -[2232.10 --> 2234.16] and of willie miles -[2234.16 --> 2238.26] in our mourning we surrounded -[2238.26 --> 2242.86] family and friends with encouragement -[2242.86 --> 2244.20] and prayers -[2244.20 --> 2247.20] we lift them up -[2247.20 --> 2248.28] to you now -[2248.28 --> 2256.80] father god not only have we lost loved ones and members to -[2256.80 --> 2258.26] to death but we have -[2258.26 --> 2267.04] seen members transfer out of our church family into other church families and so we pray for them and we pray that they would be blessed in their new -[2267.04 --> 2267.98] church homes -[2267.98 --> 2275.10] we pray lord god that if they haven't yet found a new church home that they would find one quickly that fills them up with your -[2275.10 --> 2275.98] presence -[2275.98 --> 2286.70] bless them and keep them and continue to draw them closer to you whoever they may be wherever they are going lord god find them and hold -[2286.70 --> 2287.58] fast -[2287.58 --> 2288.72] to them -[2288.72 --> 2297.48] we pray that for those relationships in our midst that we are mourning the brokenness of -[2297.48 --> 2303.08] we pray that you would restore brother to brother and sister to sister brother to sister that you would -[2303.08 --> 2306.12] restore us each as sons and daughters -[2306.12 --> 2313.62] of christ that the the reconciliation that we have experienced from you in the cross of jesus would spur us -[2313.62 --> 2316.56] forward in being reconciled to each other -[2316.56 --> 2323.60] restore us to the joy of your salvation restore us to the joy of the fellowship of the saints -[2323.60 --> 2330.32] father we pray that you would turn our mourning -[2330.32 --> 2332.16] into dancing -[2332.16 --> 2336.16] even as we mourn there are reasons to -[2336.16 --> 2337.22] celebrate -[2337.22 --> 2341.96] we look back on the year that was in our church and we welcomed new members -[2341.96 --> 2343.48] we welcomed -[2343.48 --> 2344.66] my family -[2344.66 --> 2347.68] officially rachel nora and malachi and myself -[2347.68 --> 2352.54] we welcomed my parents bill and miriam as members here at this church -[2352.54 --> 2357.18] brother god we officially welcomed clem molenkamp as a member -[2357.18 --> 2361.12] uh here who has been worshiping with us for a lifetime -[2361.12 --> 2364.72] to celebrate your work in his life -[2364.72 --> 2368.76] god we welcome john and helen van burjack we -[2368.76 --> 2374.56] thank you for them and the blessing that they are to our community in the ways they have plugged in already and as well -[2374.56 --> 2379.62] for tim and for patra for josh ryan megan and abby bonkis we -[2379.62 --> 2381.90] thank you lord god for the way that you -[2381.90 --> 2386.34] are at work and we thank you that you continue to be at work for we know that there are -[2386.34 --> 2390.80] others who are still in process of joining our church family -[2390.80 --> 2391.60] together -[2391.60 --> 2398.44] father god from new members to new members by baptism we thank you and we -[2398.44 --> 2427.24] we remember anna klein geltink and hayden muller daphne howling estie polman dawson skipper ruben burkenpass and april smith we thank you for the joy of new life for the joy of new covenant life of of seeing these young ones included in our church family welcomed into the fellowship because your grace is enough your covenant promises spill over to include our children we thank you god -[2427.24 --> 2457.24] -[2457.24 --> 2487.24] -[2487.24 --> 2517.24] -[2517.24 --> 2547.24] -[2547.24 --> 2577.24] -[2577.24 --> 2607.24] -[2607.24 --> 2637.24] -[2637.24 --> 2667.24] -[2667.24 --> 2674.04] and that in our heart expose them to your heart -[2674.04 --> 2683.56] the good shepherd and that in his voice we might have life in jesus christ we pray amen -[2683.56 --> 2701.58] if you're here or if you're at home we're going to read scripture together we're going to read from isaiah 43 -[2701.58 --> 2706.86] i'm going to refer back to that text of course a bunch uh... -[2706.86 --> 2708.46] throughout and so encourage you to -[2708.46 --> 2712.54] have that in front of you it will be on the screen as we read it the first time through but -[2712.54 --> 2713.80] as we go back -[2713.80 --> 2714.60] uh... -[2714.60 --> 2715.48] to it throughout -[2715.48 --> 2717.40] it'll be nice to have that -[2717.40 --> 2718.54] there -[2718.54 --> 2723.86] i'm going to read uh... -[2723.86 --> 2724.30] the first -[2724.30 --> 2725.30] uh... -[2725.30 --> 2726.44] five ish -[2726.44 --> 2726.84] verses -[2726.84 --> 2728.78] of isaiah 43 -[2731.58 --> 2736.18] but now this is what the lord says -[2736.18 --> 2744.84] he who created you jacob who formed you israel do not fear for i have redeemed you -[2744.84 --> 2749.02] i have summoned you by name you are mine -[2749.02 --> 2753.46] when you pass through the waters i will be with you -[2753.46 --> 2757.50] when you pass through the rivers they will not sweep over you -[2757.50 --> 2763.74] when you walk through the fire you will not be burned the flames will not set you -[2763.74 --> 2769.50] ablaze for i am the lord your god the holy one of israel your savior -[2769.50 --> 2772.54] i give egypt for your ransom -[2772.54 --> 2774.86] bush and seba in your stead -[2774.86 --> 2780.92] since you are precious and honored in my sight and because i love you -[2780.92 --> 2784.54] i will give a people in exchange for you -[2784.54 --> 2787.54] nations in exchange for your life -[2787.54 --> 2789.90] do not be afraid -[2789.90 --> 2792.02] for i am -[2792.02 --> 2793.26] with you -[2793.26 --> 2795.16] this is the word of the lord -[2795.16 --> 2803.70] there's um -[2803.70 --> 2806.58] a poem -[2806.58 --> 2811.46] that from nineteen or from nineteen from seventeen eighty six -[2811.46 --> 2813.84] by robert burns -[2813.84 --> 2816.40] uh... called to a mouse -[2816.40 --> 2819.06] now chances are you're not familiar with that poem -[2819.06 --> 2821.80] but you are familiar with this line -[2821.80 --> 2825.06] the best laid schemes of mice -[2825.06 --> 2826.18] and men -[2826.18 --> 2828.04] go often askew -[2828.04 --> 2831.74] and leave nothing but grief and pain -[2831.74 --> 2833.28] for promised joy -[2833.28 --> 2837.76] as i prepared for this message and i reflected on -[2837.76 --> 2838.50] 2021 -[2838.50 --> 2841.52] this verse kept ringing through my head -[2841.52 --> 2845.44] because 2021 was supposed to be the year that was better -[2845.44 --> 2848.36] do you remember when 2020 ended -[2848.36 --> 2852.38] and everyone was finally like finally we can be done with that -[2852.38 --> 2854.90] 2021 is going to be -[2854.90 --> 2856.24] so much better -[2856.24 --> 2860.00] the best laid schemes of mice -[2860.00 --> 2861.30] and men -[2861.30 --> 2864.40] because in the end it seems to be at least -[2864.40 --> 2864.56] that -[2864.56 --> 2867.24] 2021 only got worse -[2867.24 --> 2869.02] and we had heat domes -[2869.02 --> 2870.18] and wildfires -[2870.18 --> 2870.92] we had floods -[2870.92 --> 2872.08] and landslides -[2872.08 --> 2874.12] we had deaths due to this heat -[2874.12 --> 2875.84] and then in this past week we've had -[2875.84 --> 2877.74] deaths due to the cold -[2877.74 --> 2879.86] and then through it all -[2879.86 --> 2881.46] i don't have to tell you this -[2881.46 --> 2883.56] as you sit here -[2883.56 --> 2884.20] masked -[2884.20 --> 2885.18] for worship -[2885.18 --> 2887.30] we've had the constant companion -[2887.30 --> 2888.90] of covid-19 -[2888.90 --> 2893.46] inflation -[2893.46 --> 2895.38] has skyrocketed -[2895.38 --> 2896.76] cost of living -[2896.76 --> 2897.74] has gone up -[2897.74 --> 2899.40] housing is still crazy -[2899.40 --> 2901.52] supply chain issues -[2901.52 --> 2902.28] have caused delay -[2902.28 --> 2902.96] after delay -[2902.96 --> 2903.74] after delay -[2903.74 --> 2904.28] right -[2904.28 --> 2905.82] some of us have been working from home -[2905.82 --> 2906.88] and then back in the office -[2906.88 --> 2908.26] but oh back to home again -[2908.26 --> 2910.24] right -[2910.24 --> 2911.00] and some of us -[2911.00 --> 2912.32] have been told -[2912.32 --> 2912.78] you know what -[2912.78 --> 2913.62] working from home -[2913.62 --> 2914.86] is saving us a lot of money -[2914.86 --> 2916.74] so now we're not going to pay rent -[2916.74 --> 2917.88] so we're not going to lease a building -[2917.88 --> 2919.36] you can just stay there -[2919.36 --> 2921.74] but if you do want to lease a building -[2921.74 --> 2922.62] just so you know -[2922.62 --> 2923.82] rates have gone up -[2923.82 --> 2926.14] now of course -[2926.14 --> 2927.48] there's been good things -[2927.48 --> 2928.88] in the midst of all this -[2928.88 --> 2929.68] great things -[2929.68 --> 2930.24] even -[2930.24 --> 2930.80] right -[2930.80 --> 2931.72] babies have been born -[2931.72 --> 2932.44] weddings had -[2932.44 --> 2933.60] anniversaries celebrated -[2933.60 --> 2934.48] graduations -[2934.48 --> 2935.26] promotions -[2935.26 --> 2936.20] new jobs -[2936.20 --> 2937.24] new love -[2937.24 --> 2937.68] right -[2937.68 --> 2940.36] and as we look back -[2940.36 --> 2942.90] as we take stock -[2942.90 --> 2944.74] and I think naturally -[2944.74 --> 2945.50] we do this -[2945.50 --> 2946.82] we start to dream -[2946.82 --> 2948.06] and we start to hope -[2948.06 --> 2949.32] and we start to express -[2949.32 --> 2950.80] what we want to see -[2950.80 --> 2951.46] changed -[2951.46 --> 2952.36] or want to do -[2952.36 --> 2953.24] differently -[2953.24 --> 2955.96] and so -[2955.96 --> 2958.80] whether you are stuck -[2958.80 --> 2959.96] looking back -[2959.96 --> 2961.44] on a terrible -[2961.44 --> 2962.66] and trying -[2962.66 --> 2963.20] here -[2963.20 --> 2964.68] or you are -[2964.68 --> 2965.46] expectantly -[2965.46 --> 2966.86] looking forward -[2966.86 --> 2967.50] tonight -[2967.50 --> 2969.20] is a good night -[2969.20 --> 2970.64] to ground -[2970.64 --> 2971.48] ourselves -[2971.48 --> 2972.92] in the God -[2972.92 --> 2974.10] who guides it -[2974.10 --> 2974.86] all -[2974.86 --> 2976.80] that's what -[2976.80 --> 2977.74] Isaiah 43 -[2977.74 --> 2978.96] is going to do -[2978.96 --> 2979.52] for us -[2979.52 --> 2980.22] tonight -[2980.22 --> 2983.18] verse 2 -[2983.18 --> 2984.54] is -[2984.54 --> 2985.96] our key -[2985.96 --> 2987.66] here is -[2987.66 --> 2988.36] our theme -[2988.36 --> 2991.00] God's presence -[2991.00 --> 2991.76] which will be -[2991.76 --> 2992.36] our first point -[2992.36 --> 2993.24] God's presence -[2993.24 --> 2994.40] means that you -[2994.40 --> 2995.08] will not be -[2995.08 --> 2995.54] overcome -[2995.54 --> 2997.50] and that you -[2997.50 --> 2998.18] will never -[2998.18 --> 2999.42] be forsaken -[2999.42 --> 3001.24] God's presence -[3001.24 --> 3001.84] means you will -[3001.84 --> 3002.44] not be overcome -[3002.44 --> 3003.06] and you will -[3003.06 --> 3003.64] never be -[3003.64 --> 3004.52] forsaken -[3004.52 --> 3005.52] first -[3005.52 --> 3006.88] before we -[3006.88 --> 3007.74] get into that -[3007.74 --> 3008.48] I want to -[3008.48 --> 3009.38] show you -[3009.38 --> 3009.72] something -[3009.72 --> 3010.38] important -[3010.38 --> 3011.78] for genuine -[3011.78 --> 3012.36] Christian -[3012.36 --> 3012.96] living -[3012.96 --> 3013.30] I said -[3013.30 --> 3013.72] verse 2 -[3013.72 --> 3014.24] was our theme -[3014.24 --> 3014.62] so look -[3014.62 --> 3015.16] close here -[3015.16 --> 3016.60] when you -[3016.60 --> 3017.16] pass through -[3017.16 --> 3017.74] the waters -[3017.74 --> 3019.28] when you -[3019.28 --> 3019.88] pass through -[3019.88 --> 3020.34] the rivers -[3020.34 --> 3021.68] when you -[3021.68 --> 3022.16] walk through -[3022.16 --> 3022.66] the fire -[3022.66 --> 3024.40] did you -[3024.40 --> 3024.80] hear that -[3024.80 --> 3026.98] when -[3026.98 --> 3030.04] when -[3030.04 --> 3031.88] the presumption -[3031.88 --> 3032.88] of Isaiah -[3032.88 --> 3034.12] is when -[3034.12 --> 3035.22] not if -[3035.22 --> 3037.04] you will -[3037.04 --> 3038.28] face crisis -[3038.28 --> 3039.20] existential -[3039.20 --> 3040.36] or otherwise -[3040.36 --> 3041.18] you will -[3041.18 --> 3042.48] be disillusioned -[3042.48 --> 3043.06] you will -[3043.06 --> 3043.66] know pain -[3043.66 --> 3044.04] and you will -[3044.04 --> 3044.50] know hardship -[3044.50 --> 3044.96] and you will -[3044.96 --> 3045.42] know mourning -[3045.42 --> 3045.90] and you will -[3045.90 --> 3046.46] know death -[3046.46 --> 3047.50] make no mistake -[3047.50 --> 3048.02] about it -[3048.02 --> 3048.72] Christians -[3048.72 --> 3049.34] and just -[3049.34 --> 3049.96] because you -[3049.96 --> 3050.46] are a -[3050.46 --> 3050.90] Christian -[3050.90 --> 3052.40] doesn't mean -[3052.40 --> 3052.92] you get to -[3052.92 --> 3053.80] escape the -[3053.80 --> 3054.74] difficulties of -[3054.74 --> 3055.08] life -[3055.08 --> 3055.94] death and -[3055.94 --> 3056.64] disease and -[3056.64 --> 3057.22] disappointment -[3057.22 --> 3059.30] there are too -[3059.30 --> 3060.20] many stories -[3060.20 --> 3061.56] that I have -[3061.56 --> 3062.22] heard and -[3062.22 --> 3062.94] and been -[3062.94 --> 3064.26] party to -[3064.26 --> 3064.78] journeying -[3064.78 --> 3065.70] alongside of -[3065.70 --> 3066.52] or trying to -[3066.52 --> 3067.32] that too -[3067.32 --> 3067.96] many stories -[3067.96 --> 3068.52] of people -[3068.52 --> 3069.38] losing their -[3069.38 --> 3070.00] faith or -[3070.00 --> 3071.34] rejecting God -[3071.34 --> 3072.56] because somehow -[3072.56 --> 3073.22] they have -[3073.22 --> 3073.66] come to -[3073.66 --> 3074.44] believe that -[3074.44 --> 3075.60] by their -[3075.60 --> 3076.80] good Christian -[3076.80 --> 3077.48] living whatever -[3077.48 --> 3078.22] that means and -[3078.22 --> 3079.02] looks like God -[3079.02 --> 3080.02] should exempt -[3080.02 --> 3080.90] them from -[3080.90 --> 3081.44] struggles -[3081.44 --> 3083.72] right sometimes -[3083.72 --> 3084.68] we think -[3084.68 --> 3086.06] we might never -[3086.06 --> 3086.88] actually say this -[3086.88 --> 3088.12] out loud but -[3088.12 --> 3089.00] in our heart of -[3089.00 --> 3089.60] hearts you know -[3089.60 --> 3090.60] it's true we -[3090.60 --> 3091.70] think how could -[3091.70 --> 3092.54] God let this -[3092.54 --> 3093.30] happen to me -[3093.30 --> 3096.66] right I have -[3096.66 --> 3097.50] been praying for -[3097.50 --> 3098.42] years and years -[3098.42 --> 3099.50] and years God -[3099.50 --> 3100.88] why would you -[3100.88 --> 3103.42] do that and -[3103.42 --> 3103.94] what we really -[3103.94 --> 3105.24] mean right by -[3105.24 --> 3105.86] that is that -[3105.86 --> 3106.72] that God is -[3106.72 --> 3107.28] supposed to -[3107.28 --> 3108.12] bless us and -[3108.12 --> 3109.14] protect us from -[3109.14 --> 3109.78] those sorts of -[3109.78 --> 3110.56] things that that -[3110.56 --> 3111.44] life really is -[3111.44 --> 3112.24] supposed to be -[3112.24 --> 3114.94] easier for -[3114.94 --> 3115.76] somehow because -[3115.76 --> 3116.76] you go to church -[3116.76 --> 3117.92] every week if you -[3117.92 --> 3118.66] come every week -[3118.66 --> 3119.66] you shouldn't have -[3119.66 --> 3120.96] to struggle with -[3120.96 --> 3122.12] fertility issues or -[3122.12 --> 3123.02] you shouldn't have -[3123.02 --> 3124.64] to because you -[3124.64 --> 3125.80] prayed authentically -[3125.80 --> 3126.80] and with fasting -[3126.80 --> 3127.78] shouldn't have to -[3127.78 --> 3128.66] have this illness -[3128.66 --> 3130.22] we might never say -[3130.22 --> 3131.76] it out loud but -[3131.76 --> 3132.76] our internal -[3132.76 --> 3134.02] hidden anger -[3134.02 --> 3135.06] belies the -[3135.06 --> 3137.22] truth we think -[3137.22 --> 3137.82] that God should -[3137.82 --> 3138.74] protect us from -[3138.74 --> 3139.28] the ordinary -[3139.28 --> 3140.00] evils and -[3140.00 --> 3140.56] struggles of -[3140.56 --> 3142.84] life and -[3142.84 --> 3145.30] look I really -[3145.30 --> 3146.92] do believe that -[3146.92 --> 3148.14] that life as a -[3148.14 --> 3149.36] Christian is -[3149.36 --> 3150.26] better that it -[3150.26 --> 3151.24] is qualitatively -[3151.24 --> 3151.62] that it is -[3151.62 --> 3153.08] subjectively better -[3153.08 --> 3154.00] but I also -[3154.00 --> 3154.74] believe that life -[3154.74 --> 3155.54] as a Christian is -[3155.54 --> 3157.04] harder and fraught -[3157.04 --> 3157.58] with unique -[3157.58 --> 3158.72] challenges and -[3158.72 --> 3159.60] trials in fact -[3159.60 --> 3160.72] sometimes life -[3160.72 --> 3161.38] gets more -[3161.38 --> 3162.48] difficult when -[3162.48 --> 3163.16] you become a -[3163.16 --> 3163.60] Christian or -[3163.60 --> 3164.08] when you want -[3164.08 --> 3164.56] to live -[3164.56 --> 3165.60] Christianly -[3165.60 --> 3167.58] right it's -[3167.58 --> 3168.98] hard to live -[3168.98 --> 3170.48] sexually obedient -[3170.48 --> 3172.42] lives when a -[3172.42 --> 3173.92] few or most of -[3173.92 --> 3174.84] your friends don't -[3174.84 --> 3175.36] seem to care -[3175.36 --> 3177.46] right it is -[3177.46 --> 3179.08] impossible to be -[3179.08 --> 3180.22] holy in a -[3180.22 --> 3181.04] culture that has -[3181.04 --> 3181.88] quite literally -[3181.88 --> 3183.40] licensed licentious -[3183.40 --> 3183.90] behavior -[3183.90 --> 3186.32] right Paul says -[3186.32 --> 3186.80] to Timothy -[3186.80 --> 3187.94] everyone who -[3187.94 --> 3188.84] wants to live a -[3188.84 --> 3190.04] godly life in -[3190.04 --> 3191.34] Christ will be -[3191.34 --> 3195.66] persecuted and -[3195.66 --> 3196.18] even though our -[3196.18 --> 3197.58] faith is unique -[3197.58 --> 3198.30] and our -[3198.30 --> 3199.28] perspectives on -[3199.28 --> 3201.12] suffering changes -[3201.12 --> 3203.36] humanity is -[3203.36 --> 3204.78] shared around the -[3204.78 --> 3206.38] globe and yes we -[3206.38 --> 3206.86] are rightly -[3206.86 --> 3207.96] frustrated by -[3207.96 --> 3208.92] inaction on -[3208.92 --> 3209.98] social issues we -[3209.98 --> 3211.76] cry out for -[3211.76 --> 3212.60] justice and in -[3212.60 --> 3213.68] part of loving our -[3213.68 --> 3214.62] neighbor is wanting -[3214.62 --> 3215.84] what is best for -[3215.84 --> 3216.72] their well-being -[3216.72 --> 3219.02] even if they -[3219.02 --> 3220.28] refuse to believe -[3220.28 --> 3221.88] as we do and -[3221.88 --> 3222.54] so yeah we can -[3222.54 --> 3223.46] empathize with -[3223.46 --> 3224.66] people in crisis -[3224.66 --> 3225.68] and and my heart -[3225.68 --> 3226.66] breaks when I -[3226.66 --> 3228.28] look around and I -[3228.28 --> 3229.78] confess that -[3229.78 --> 3232.22] disillusionment is -[3232.22 --> 3233.14] an easy first -[3233.14 --> 3237.00] reaction and I -[3237.00 --> 3238.20] confess that apathy -[3238.20 --> 3240.36] is a close second -[3240.36 --> 3244.08] point is -[3244.08 --> 3246.78] whether the water -[3246.78 --> 3248.02] is death and the -[3248.02 --> 3248.96] rivers are worry -[3248.96 --> 3249.84] and the fire is -[3249.84 --> 3251.52] disease or if the -[3251.52 --> 3253.24] waters are rising -[3253.24 --> 3254.06] with global -[3254.06 --> 3254.98] temperatures and the -[3254.98 --> 3256.20] rivers are polluted -[3256.20 --> 3257.50] and unpotable and -[3257.50 --> 3258.70] fires are destroying -[3258.70 --> 3259.98] rainforests and -[3259.98 --> 3260.64] vineyards and -[3260.64 --> 3261.90] and mountainsides or -[3261.90 --> 3263.60] towns or if the -[3263.60 --> 3264.78] waters are cynicism -[3264.78 --> 3265.56] and the rivers are -[3265.56 --> 3266.42] disillusionment and -[3266.42 --> 3268.10] the fires are apathy -[3268.10 --> 3270.32] whatever they are -[3270.32 --> 3272.70] it's common to us -[3272.70 --> 3275.22] all and just -[3275.22 --> 3275.74] because we're -[3275.74 --> 3277.56] Christian doesn't -[3277.56 --> 3278.56] mean we are exempt -[3278.56 --> 3280.48] from that reality -[3280.48 --> 3282.46] in fact as Jesus -[3282.46 --> 3284.06] indicates we're -[3284.06 --> 3285.34] more likely to -[3285.34 --> 3286.52] expect tribulation -[3286.52 --> 3287.38] or trial and -[3287.38 --> 3289.52] trouble because we -[3289.52 --> 3290.24] are disciples of -[3290.24 --> 3293.28] Jesus and so your -[3293.28 --> 3294.58] individual experiences -[3294.58 --> 3295.76] of this past year -[3295.76 --> 3297.00] may not be all -[3297.00 --> 3298.18] that unique -[3298.18 --> 3298.68] right the -[3298.68 --> 3299.44] particulars of -[3299.44 --> 3300.22] our experience -[3300.22 --> 3301.46] are shared -[3301.46 --> 3304.32] but the meaning -[3304.32 --> 3306.14] that you make -[3306.14 --> 3308.26] of those experiences -[3308.26 --> 3309.74] of this past year -[3309.74 --> 3311.10] the big picture -[3311.10 --> 3312.02] interpretation -[3312.02 --> 3313.50] of the the -[3313.50 --> 3314.34] circumstances -[3314.34 --> 3315.90] is different -[3315.90 --> 3317.14] for those of us -[3317.14 --> 3317.70] who believe -[3317.70 --> 3319.88] because we know -[3319.88 --> 3322.18] when you pass -[3322.18 --> 3323.10] through the waters -[3323.10 --> 3326.66] I will be with -[3326.66 --> 3328.78] you we know -[3328.78 --> 3329.70] that even though -[3329.70 --> 3330.48] I walk through -[3330.48 --> 3331.08] the valley of -[3331.08 --> 3331.72] the shadow of -[3331.72 --> 3332.34] death I will -[3332.34 --> 3333.22] fear no evil -[3333.22 --> 3335.42] for you are -[3335.42 --> 3336.46] with me -[3336.46 --> 3338.18] right we know -[3338.18 --> 3339.92] we have God's -[3339.92 --> 3341.74] presence and -[3341.74 --> 3342.70] here is one of -[3342.70 --> 3343.34] the most amazing -[3343.34 --> 3344.42] things about God's -[3344.42 --> 3345.00] presence that I'm -[3345.00 --> 3345.80] only just beginning -[3345.80 --> 3346.74] to grasp even in -[3346.74 --> 3347.42] my own life -[3347.42 --> 3349.06] God's presence is -[3349.06 --> 3350.32] so much greater -[3350.32 --> 3352.52] than my experience -[3352.52 --> 3354.06] of God's -[3354.06 --> 3354.52] presence -[3354.52 --> 3356.98] right I think -[3356.98 --> 3358.10] most of us -[3358.10 --> 3358.80] probably know -[3358.80 --> 3359.40] what it's like -[3359.40 --> 3360.52] to feel as though -[3360.52 --> 3361.92] God is distant -[3361.92 --> 3363.06] like he doesn't -[3363.06 --> 3364.06] draw near to us -[3364.06 --> 3365.02] like he used to -[3365.02 --> 3365.62] like he doesn't -[3365.62 --> 3366.42] speak to us -[3366.42 --> 3367.52] as he once did -[3367.52 --> 3368.26] or as he does -[3368.26 --> 3369.06] for that person -[3369.06 --> 3370.04] or that person -[3370.04 --> 3370.66] who seems to have -[3370.66 --> 3371.28] it all together -[3371.28 --> 3371.98] who has the kind -[3371.98 --> 3372.54] of faith that you -[3372.54 --> 3373.16] want to have -[3373.16 --> 3375.02] but but even -[3375.02 --> 3376.50] then even -[3376.50 --> 3377.58] when we are in -[3377.58 --> 3378.34] that dark night -[3378.34 --> 3379.12] of the soul -[3379.12 --> 3380.10] even when we -[3380.10 --> 3381.06] are faithless -[3381.06 --> 3382.72] he remains faithful -[3382.72 --> 3383.78] for he cannot -[3383.78 --> 3384.64] disown himself -[3384.64 --> 3386.96] right even when -[3386.96 --> 3388.06] my experience -[3388.06 --> 3388.80] cries out -[3388.80 --> 3389.66] how long oh -[3389.66 --> 3390.20] Lord will you -[3390.20 --> 3391.08] forget me forever -[3391.08 --> 3392.08] right the the -[3392.08 --> 3393.62] ontological reality -[3393.62 --> 3396.36] is God is with us -[3396.36 --> 3397.80] that's what verse -[3397.80 --> 3398.94] one is about -[3398.94 --> 3399.50] and that's what -[3399.50 --> 3400.46] verse one is -[3400.46 --> 3401.84] saying the truth -[3401.84 --> 3402.84] of reality -[3402.84 --> 3403.90] in and with -[3403.90 --> 3404.98] God because -[3404.98 --> 3405.94] he defines -[3405.94 --> 3407.60] reality and this -[3407.60 --> 3408.38] is the reality -[3408.38 --> 3409.52] of the Christian -[3409.52 --> 3410.58] the truth of our -[3410.58 --> 3411.62] reality is that -[3411.62 --> 3413.92] God is with us -[3413.92 --> 3415.46] he created you -[3415.46 --> 3416.74] Jacob he who -[3416.74 --> 3417.64] formed you -[3417.64 --> 3419.70] Israel fear not -[3419.70 --> 3420.28] for I have -[3420.28 --> 3420.82] redeemed you -[3420.82 --> 3421.66] I have summoned -[3421.66 --> 3423.56] you by name -[3423.56 --> 3425.30] you are -[3425.30 --> 3426.64] mine -[3426.64 --> 3427.78] that's the Lord -[3427.78 --> 3431.02] if by grace -[3431.02 --> 3432.04] through faith -[3432.04 --> 3433.32] you believe -[3433.32 --> 3434.46] you belong -[3434.46 --> 3435.44] to God -[3435.44 --> 3436.70] you are not -[3436.70 --> 3437.20] your own -[3437.20 --> 3437.58] you've been -[3437.58 --> 3438.14] bought with a -[3438.14 --> 3438.74] price and you -[3438.74 --> 3439.56] belong body -[3439.56 --> 3440.10] and soul -[3440.10 --> 3440.68] in life -[3440.68 --> 3441.32] and in death -[3441.32 --> 3442.32] to your faithful -[3442.32 --> 3443.48] savior Jesus -[3443.48 --> 3444.48] Christ and he -[3444.48 --> 3445.52] will never -[3445.52 --> 3446.96] leave you -[3446.96 --> 3448.74] you are precious -[3448.74 --> 3449.96] and honored -[3449.96 --> 3451.16] in his sight -[3451.16 --> 3452.78] God has given -[3452.78 --> 3454.16] you his only -[3454.16 --> 3455.34] son in exchange -[3455.34 --> 3455.82] for you -[3455.82 --> 3457.20] and that son -[3457.20 --> 3458.20] now risen -[3458.20 --> 3459.14] from the grave -[3459.14 --> 3460.32] says do not -[3460.32 --> 3461.74] be afraid -[3461.74 --> 3462.88] for I -[3462.88 --> 3464.42] am with you -[3464.42 --> 3467.12] and we just -[3467.12 --> 3467.62] came through a -[3467.62 --> 3468.48] Christmas season -[3468.48 --> 3469.74] in church here -[3469.74 --> 3470.54] where we sang -[3470.54 --> 3471.36] oh come oh -[3471.36 --> 3472.56] come Emmanuel -[3472.56 --> 3474.70] the namesake of -[3474.70 --> 3475.12] this church -[3475.12 --> 3476.32] what does -[3476.32 --> 3477.32] Emmanuel mean -[3477.32 --> 3479.66] this is the -[3479.66 --> 3480.46] interactive portion -[3480.46 --> 3481.44] someone not -[3481.44 --> 3481.72] Kevin -[3481.72 --> 3483.82] God with us -[3483.82 --> 3484.36] thank you -[3484.36 --> 3486.16] right Emmanuel -[3486.16 --> 3486.84] means God -[3486.84 --> 3487.28] with us -[3487.28 --> 3488.30] Jesus is the -[3488.30 --> 3488.96] great God -[3488.96 --> 3489.82] with us -[3489.82 --> 3490.78] and by his -[3490.78 --> 3491.78] spirit he is -[3491.78 --> 3492.74] still with us -[3492.74 --> 3493.90] and within us -[3493.90 --> 3494.38] right God -[3494.38 --> 3495.30] is present -[3495.30 --> 3496.60] even when -[3496.60 --> 3497.30] it doesn't -[3497.30 --> 3498.88] feel like it -[3498.88 --> 3501.46] and his -[3501.46 --> 3502.50] presence means -[3502.50 --> 3503.42] you will not -[3503.42 --> 3505.02] be overcome -[3505.02 --> 3507.26] when you pass -[3507.26 --> 3507.76] through the -[3507.76 --> 3508.14] waters -[3508.14 --> 3509.88] I will be -[3509.88 --> 3510.80] with you -[3510.80 --> 3512.88] okay now -[3512.88 --> 3513.64] check this out -[3513.64 --> 3515.72] if your Bibles -[3515.72 --> 3516.10] are open -[3516.10 --> 3516.64] you can cheat -[3516.64 --> 3517.62] but if you -[3517.62 --> 3518.14] don't need to -[3518.14 --> 3518.52] don't -[3518.52 --> 3519.96] in Matthew's -[3519.96 --> 3520.36] gospel -[3520.36 --> 3520.94] in chapter -[3520.94 --> 3521.46] 28 -[3521.46 --> 3523.58] the women -[3523.58 --> 3524.86] have just -[3524.86 --> 3525.52] endured -[3525.52 --> 3526.76] the most -[3526.76 --> 3527.46] devastating -[3527.46 --> 3528.54] death of -[3528.54 --> 3529.04] Jesus -[3529.04 --> 3530.22] their rabbi -[3530.22 --> 3531.18] their friend -[3531.18 --> 3531.90] their lord -[3531.90 --> 3533.30] and even son -[3533.30 --> 3533.86] in the case -[3533.86 --> 3534.28] of Mary -[3534.28 --> 3535.96] the day -[3535.96 --> 3536.66] after the -[3536.66 --> 3536.94] Sabbath -[3536.94 --> 3537.64] they go to -[3537.64 --> 3538.08] the tomb -[3538.08 --> 3538.60] to prepare -[3538.60 --> 3539.18] his body -[3539.18 --> 3539.78] with spices -[3539.78 --> 3540.62] and oils -[3540.62 --> 3541.48] as per the -[3541.48 --> 3542.40] funeral rites -[3542.40 --> 3542.86] of second -[3542.86 --> 3543.26] temple -[3543.26 --> 3544.60] Judaism -[3544.60 --> 3545.44] when they -[3545.44 --> 3545.94] get to the -[3545.94 --> 3546.30] temple -[3546.30 --> 3547.14] the tomb -[3547.14 --> 3547.88] is empty -[3547.88 --> 3548.98] and an -[3548.98 --> 3549.32] angel -[3549.32 --> 3550.08] appears to -[3550.08 --> 3550.36] them -[3550.36 --> 3550.62] and the -[3550.62 --> 3550.88] angel -[3550.88 --> 3551.22] says -[3551.22 --> 3552.02] he is not -[3552.02 --> 3552.36] here -[3552.36 --> 3552.90] he has been -[3552.90 --> 3553.14] risen -[3553.14 --> 3554.00] go tell -[3554.00 --> 3554.80] the disciples -[3554.80 --> 3556.22] that Jesus -[3556.22 --> 3556.78] has risen -[3556.78 --> 3557.42] and that he -[3557.42 --> 3558.00] will meet -[3558.00 --> 3558.60] them in -[3558.60 --> 3559.44] Galilee -[3559.44 --> 3560.64] and these -[3560.64 --> 3561.28] women both -[3561.28 --> 3561.90] terrified -[3561.90 --> 3563.22] and overjoyed -[3563.22 --> 3564.36] run away -[3564.36 --> 3565.20] in fear -[3565.20 --> 3565.86] and in -[3565.86 --> 3566.46] excitement -[3566.46 --> 3567.34] and while -[3567.34 --> 3567.70] they are -[3567.70 --> 3568.02] running -[3568.02 --> 3568.40] Jesus -[3568.40 --> 3569.12] appears to -[3569.12 --> 3569.34] them -[3569.34 --> 3569.66] and he -[3569.66 --> 3569.96] says -[3569.96 --> 3570.76] greetings -[3570.76 --> 3571.62] do you -[3571.62 --> 3571.78] remember -[3571.78 --> 3572.04] what he -[3572.04 --> 3572.62] says next -[3572.62 --> 3575.64] do not -[3575.64 --> 3576.22] be afraid -[3576.22 --> 3578.26] do not -[3578.26 --> 3579.32] be -[3579.32 --> 3580.52] afraid -[3580.52 --> 3582.38] now I -[3582.38 --> 3582.78] have to -[3582.78 --> 3583.10] believe -[3583.10 --> 3583.46] that that -[3583.46 --> 3583.92] do not -[3583.92 --> 3584.50] be afraid -[3584.50 --> 3585.12] that the -[3585.12 --> 3585.70] risen Jesus -[3585.70 --> 3586.44] speaks in -[3586.44 --> 3586.88] that moment -[3586.88 --> 3587.64] is so much -[3587.64 --> 3588.14] more than -[3588.14 --> 3588.58] don't be -[3588.58 --> 3589.52] scared of -[3589.52 --> 3589.96] a ghost -[3589.96 --> 3590.36] or an -[3590.36 --> 3590.84] apparition -[3590.84 --> 3591.36] or whatever -[3591.36 --> 3591.78] they thought -[3591.78 --> 3592.10] he might -[3592.10 --> 3592.48] have been -[3592.48 --> 3593.32] I have to -[3593.32 --> 3593.76] believe that -[3593.76 --> 3594.12] that do -[3594.12 --> 3594.62] not be -[3594.62 --> 3595.10] afraid -[3595.10 --> 3595.68] in the -[3595.68 --> 3596.66] long history -[3596.66 --> 3597.56] of the -[3597.56 --> 3597.94] prophets -[3597.94 --> 3599.12] speaking those -[3599.12 --> 3600.08] words throughout -[3600.08 --> 3600.74] the ages -[3600.74 --> 3602.38] is salvific -[3602.38 --> 3603.18] that is relating -[3603.18 --> 3603.96] to salvation -[3603.96 --> 3604.48] that it is -[3604.48 --> 3605.14] theological -[3605.14 --> 3605.56] that is -[3605.56 --> 3606.06] full of -[3606.06 --> 3607.10] God ordained -[3607.10 --> 3607.88] purpose and -[3607.88 --> 3608.24] meaning -[3608.24 --> 3608.98] do not -[3608.98 --> 3609.48] be afraid -[3609.48 --> 3610.02] do not -[3610.02 --> 3610.74] be afraid -[3610.74 --> 3611.24] death -[3611.24 --> 3612.38] is dead -[3612.38 --> 3612.84] do not -[3612.84 --> 3613.58] be afraid -[3613.58 --> 3614.06] sin -[3614.06 --> 3615.26] is destroyed -[3615.26 --> 3615.72] do not -[3615.72 --> 3616.38] be afraid -[3616.38 --> 3616.90] eternal -[3616.90 --> 3617.76] life is -[3617.76 --> 3618.48] yours -[3618.48 --> 3618.98] do not -[3618.98 --> 3619.70] be afraid -[3619.70 --> 3620.36] for I -[3620.36 --> 3621.06] am -[3621.06 --> 3622.16] with you -[3622.16 --> 3624.30] and not -[3624.30 --> 3624.86] only is this -[3624.86 --> 3625.58] a salvific -[3625.58 --> 3626.42] and theological -[3626.42 --> 3626.98] do not -[3626.98 --> 3627.40] be afraid -[3627.40 --> 3627.90] I think -[3627.90 --> 3628.56] it is also -[3628.56 --> 3628.80] an -[3628.80 --> 3630.18] imperatival -[3630.18 --> 3630.64] it is a -[3630.64 --> 3631.32] command -[3631.32 --> 3632.06] and it is -[3632.06 --> 3632.96] a purposive -[3632.96 --> 3633.72] do not -[3633.72 --> 3634.36] be afraid -[3634.36 --> 3634.92] right -[3634.92 --> 3635.36] do not -[3635.36 --> 3636.00] be afraid -[3636.00 --> 3636.52] when you -[3636.52 --> 3636.90] face -[3636.90 --> 3637.62] waters -[3637.62 --> 3638.32] or rivers -[3638.32 --> 3639.16] or fire -[3639.16 --> 3639.52] do not -[3639.52 --> 3639.98] be afraid -[3639.98 --> 3640.30] when you -[3640.30 --> 3640.48] face -[3640.48 --> 3641.10] pandemics -[3641.10 --> 3641.90] or job -[3641.90 --> 3642.20] loss -[3642.20 --> 3642.92] or scarcity -[3642.92 --> 3643.68] do not -[3643.68 --> 3644.32] be afraid -[3644.32 --> 3644.68] because -[3644.68 --> 3645.54] through it -[3645.54 --> 3646.02] all -[3646.02 --> 3646.84] I am -[3646.84 --> 3647.40] with you -[3647.40 --> 3648.00] do not -[3648.00 --> 3648.72] be afraid -[3648.72 --> 3649.30] through -[3649.30 --> 3649.96] it -[3649.96 --> 3650.86] all -[3650.86 --> 3652.54] I am -[3652.54 --> 3652.74] there -[3652.74 --> 3653.48] for you -[3653.48 --> 3656.86] if you -[3656.86 --> 3658.16] have been -[3658.16 --> 3658.48] with us -[3658.48 --> 3658.88] in church -[3658.88 --> 3659.26] for the -[3659.26 --> 3659.58] last -[3659.58 --> 3660.26] year -[3660.26 --> 3661.56] that's -[3661.56 --> 3661.96] why I -[3661.96 --> 3662.46] end -[3662.46 --> 3663.18] our -[3663.18 --> 3663.62] services -[3663.62 --> 3664.08] with the -[3664.08 --> 3664.54] blessing -[3664.54 --> 3665.46] that I -[3665.46 --> 3665.74] do -[3665.74 --> 3667.02] because -[3667.02 --> 3667.78] we need -[3667.78 --> 3668.06] that -[3668.06 --> 3668.94] salvific -[3668.94 --> 3669.60] reminder -[3669.60 --> 3670.78] that theological -[3670.78 --> 3671.40] reminder -[3671.40 --> 3672.04] as we go -[3672.04 --> 3672.46] into the -[3672.46 --> 3672.66] week -[3672.66 --> 3673.26] do not -[3673.26 --> 3674.50] be afraid -[3674.50 --> 3675.06] death -[3675.06 --> 3675.88] is -[3675.88 --> 3676.56] dead -[3676.56 --> 3677.08] and we -[3677.08 --> 3677.46] need -[3677.46 --> 3677.70] that -[3677.70 --> 3678.38] purposive -[3678.38 --> 3679.12] reminder -[3679.12 --> 3679.86] every week -[3679.86 --> 3680.40] do not -[3680.40 --> 3681.40] be afraid -[3681.40 --> 3682.16] through it -[3682.16 --> 3682.56] all -[3682.56 --> 3683.30] God -[3683.30 --> 3683.78] is -[3683.78 --> 3684.46] with -[3684.46 --> 3684.80] you -[3684.80 --> 3687.68] so -[3687.68 --> 3687.96] those -[3687.96 --> 3688.34] are the -[3688.34 --> 3689.38] first -[3689.38 --> 3689.98] words -[3689.98 --> 3690.26] of -[3690.26 --> 3690.72] Jesus -[3690.72 --> 3691.72] after -[3691.72 --> 3691.96] his -[3691.96 --> 3692.50] resurrection -[3692.50 --> 3694.60] again -[3694.60 --> 3695.52] Matthew -[3695.52 --> 3696.36] 28 -[3696.36 --> 3697.68] what are -[3697.68 --> 3698.24] the last -[3698.24 --> 3698.74] words -[3698.74 --> 3699.32] of -[3699.32 --> 3699.78] Jesus -[3699.78 --> 3706.08] and I -[3706.08 --> 3706.42] am with -[3706.42 --> 3707.08] you always -[3707.08 --> 3707.42] to the -[3707.42 --> 3707.78] very -[3707.78 --> 3708.60] end -[3708.60 --> 3709.16] of the -[3709.16 --> 3709.50] age -[3709.50 --> 3711.46] God -[3711.46 --> 3712.32] is -[3712.32 --> 3713.20] with -[3713.20 --> 3713.70] us -[3713.70 --> 3714.44] and so -[3714.44 --> 3714.82] go -[3714.82 --> 3715.68] and preach -[3715.68 --> 3716.26] the gospel -[3716.26 --> 3716.92] God -[3716.92 --> 3717.26] is -[3717.26 --> 3717.62] with -[3717.62 --> 3717.88] us -[3717.88 --> 3718.16] and so -[3718.16 --> 3718.48] go -[3718.48 --> 3719.06] and make -[3719.06 --> 3719.62] disciples -[3719.62 --> 3720.02] God -[3720.02 --> 3720.32] is -[3720.32 --> 3720.60] with -[3720.60 --> 3720.84] us -[3720.84 --> 3721.18] and so -[3721.18 --> 3721.74] go -[3721.74 --> 3722.20] love -[3722.20 --> 3722.40] your -[3722.40 --> 3722.74] neighbor -[3722.74 --> 3723.14] God -[3723.14 --> 3723.36] is -[3723.36 --> 3723.60] with -[3723.60 --> 3723.78] us -[3723.78 --> 3724.02] and so -[3724.02 --> 3724.32] go -[3724.32 --> 3724.60] be -[3724.60 --> 3725.14] stewards -[3725.14 --> 3725.70] of -[3725.70 --> 3725.98] his -[3725.98 --> 3726.68] creation -[3726.68 --> 3727.12] God -[3727.12 --> 3727.36] is -[3727.36 --> 3727.60] with -[3727.60 --> 3727.82] us -[3727.82 --> 3728.16] and so -[3728.16 --> 3728.72] advocate -[3728.72 --> 3729.28] for -[3729.28 --> 3729.72] justice -[3729.72 --> 3730.14] and be -[3730.14 --> 3730.54] generous -[3730.54 --> 3731.14] with -[3731.14 --> 3731.60] mercy -[3731.60 --> 3732.56] no matter -[3732.56 --> 3733.12] how -[3733.12 --> 3733.76] great -[3733.76 --> 3734.22] the -[3734.22 --> 3735.28] disillusionment -[3735.28 --> 3736.88] gets -[3736.88 --> 3737.42] or how -[3737.42 --> 3738.28] comprehensive -[3738.28 --> 3739.00] the -[3739.00 --> 3739.66] societal -[3739.66 --> 3740.60] fear -[3740.60 --> 3741.00] of -[3741.00 --> 3741.68] existential -[3741.68 --> 3742.36] crisis -[3742.36 --> 3743.04] looms -[3743.04 --> 3743.78] God's -[3743.78 --> 3744.34] presence -[3744.34 --> 3744.90] means -[3744.90 --> 3745.44] that you -[3745.44 --> 3746.16] will not -[3746.16 --> 3746.48] be -[3746.48 --> 3747.20] overcome -[3747.20 --> 3748.58] instead -[3748.58 --> 3749.58] we have -[3749.58 --> 3750.22] become -[3750.22 --> 3751.50] overcomers -[3751.50 --> 3752.72] fear -[3752.72 --> 3753.12] not -[3753.12 --> 3753.58] for I -[3753.58 --> 3753.82] have -[3753.82 --> 3754.42] redeemed -[3754.42 --> 3754.76] you -[3754.76 --> 3755.32] I -[3755.32 --> 3755.52] have -[3755.52 --> 3755.94] summoned -[3755.94 --> 3756.22] you -[3756.22 --> 3756.44] by -[3756.44 --> 3756.94] name -[3756.94 --> 3757.48] you -[3757.48 --> 3758.70] are -[3758.70 --> 3760.06] mine -[3760.06 --> 3762.76] the -[3762.76 --> 3762.96] book -[3762.96 --> 3763.20] of -[3763.20 --> 3763.86] revelation -[3763.86 --> 3765.66] begins -[3765.66 --> 3766.06] with -[3766.06 --> 3766.60] Jesus -[3766.60 --> 3767.42] writing -[3767.42 --> 3767.92] seven -[3767.92 --> 3768.42] letters -[3768.42 --> 3769.20] to the -[3769.20 --> 3769.50] churches -[3769.50 --> 3770.18] and in -[3770.18 --> 3770.52] each -[3770.52 --> 3771.00] one -[3771.00 --> 3771.82] a promise -[3771.82 --> 3772.32] is given -[3772.32 --> 3774.32] something -[3774.32 --> 3774.78] along the -[3774.78 --> 3775.42] lines of -[3775.42 --> 3775.88] to the -[3775.88 --> 3776.14] one -[3776.14 --> 3776.32] who -[3776.32 --> 3777.02] overcomes -[3777.02 --> 3777.80] I -[3777.80 --> 3778.00] will -[3778.00 --> 3778.24] give -[3778.24 --> 3778.46] the -[3778.46 --> 3778.76] right -[3778.76 --> 3778.98] to -[3778.98 --> 3779.22] eat -[3779.22 --> 3779.44] from -[3779.44 --> 3779.58] the -[3779.58 --> 3779.86] tree -[3779.86 --> 3780.48] of -[3780.48 --> 3780.82] life -[3780.82 --> 3781.02] or -[3781.02 --> 3781.50] to -[3781.50 --> 3781.66] the -[3781.66 --> 3781.90] one -[3781.90 --> 3782.12] who -[3782.12 --> 3782.84] overcomes -[3782.84 --> 3783.90] they -[3783.90 --> 3784.08] will -[3784.08 --> 3784.26] not -[3784.26 --> 3784.46] be -[3784.46 --> 3784.86] hurt -[3784.86 --> 3785.40] by -[3785.40 --> 3785.56] the -[3785.56 --> 3785.84] second -[3785.84 --> 3786.24] death -[3786.24 --> 3787.06] right -[3787.06 --> 3787.24] to -[3787.24 --> 3787.40] the -[3787.40 --> 3787.66] one -[3787.66 --> 3787.86] who -[3787.86 --> 3788.66] overcomes -[3788.66 --> 3788.96] Jesus -[3788.96 --> 3789.20] says -[3789.20 --> 3789.34] to -[3789.34 --> 3789.48] the -[3789.48 --> 3789.74] one -[3789.74 --> 3789.94] who -[3789.94 --> 3790.30] over -[3790.30 --> 3791.08] comes -[3791.08 --> 3791.70] by -[3791.70 --> 3792.36] God's -[3792.36 --> 3792.84] preserving -[3792.84 --> 3793.42] grace -[3793.42 --> 3793.98] you -[3793.98 --> 3794.24] are -[3794.24 --> 3794.60] not -[3794.60 --> 3795.26] overcome -[3795.26 --> 3796.04] but -[3796.04 --> 3796.16] you -[3796.16 --> 3796.30] have -[3796.30 --> 3796.52] been -[3796.52 --> 3797.24] transformed -[3797.24 --> 3798.14] into -[3798.14 --> 3798.44] an -[3798.44 --> 3799.14] overcomer -[3799.14 --> 3799.94] that -[3799.94 --> 3800.26] is -[3800.26 --> 3800.54] your -[3800.54 --> 3800.86] new -[3800.86 --> 3801.42] name -[3801.42 --> 3801.70] in -[3801.70 --> 3802.08] Christ -[3802.08 --> 3802.80] Jesus -[3802.80 --> 3803.32] God's -[3803.32 --> 3803.84] presence -[3803.84 --> 3804.26] means -[3804.26 --> 3804.52] you -[3804.52 --> 3804.78] will -[3804.78 --> 3805.18] not -[3805.18 --> 3805.64] be -[3805.64 --> 3806.42] overcome -[3806.42 --> 3806.94] and -[3806.94 --> 3807.14] you -[3807.14 --> 3807.40] will -[3807.40 --> 3807.84] never -[3807.84 --> 3808.40] be -[3808.40 --> 3809.32] forsaken -[3809.32 --> 3811.20] when -[3811.20 --> 3811.34] you -[3811.34 --> 3811.60] walk -[3811.60 --> 3811.80] through -[3811.80 --> 3811.98] the -[3811.98 --> 3812.32] fire -[3812.32 --> 3812.84] you -[3812.84 --> 3813.04] will -[3813.04 --> 3813.28] not -[3813.28 --> 3813.46] be -[3813.46 --> 3813.86] burned -[3813.86 --> 3814.36] the -[3814.36 --> 3814.78] flames -[3814.78 --> 3815.10] will -[3815.10 --> 3815.40] not -[3815.40 --> 3815.76] set -[3815.76 --> 3816.04] you -[3816.04 --> 3817.16] ablaze -[3817.16 --> 3818.54] God -[3818.54 --> 3818.72] go -[3818.72 --> 3819.12] before -[3819.12 --> 3819.40] you -[3819.40 --> 3819.62] to -[3819.62 --> 3819.98] prepare -[3819.98 --> 3820.24] a -[3820.24 --> 3820.42] way -[3820.42 --> 3820.66] for -[3820.66 --> 3820.94] you -[3820.94 --> 3821.96] God -[3821.96 --> 3822.12] go -[3822.12 --> 3822.54] behind -[3822.54 --> 3822.82] you -[3822.82 --> 3823.08] to -[3823.08 --> 3823.60] protect -[3823.60 --> 3823.86] you -[3823.86 --> 3824.08] God -[3824.08 --> 3824.26] go -[3824.26 --> 3824.72] beneath -[3824.72 --> 3825.04] you -[3825.04 --> 3825.48] to -[3825.48 --> 3825.90] support -[3825.90 --> 3826.10] you -[3826.10 --> 3826.38] God -[3826.38 --> 3826.58] go -[3826.58 --> 3827.10] behind -[3827.10 --> 3827.50] you -[3827.50 --> 3828.24] to -[3828.24 --> 3828.60] protect -[3828.60 --> 3828.86] you -[3828.86 --> 3829.14] God -[3829.14 --> 3829.34] go -[3829.34 --> 3829.90] beside -[3829.90 --> 3830.26] you -[3830.26 --> 3830.68] to -[3830.68 --> 3831.06] befriend -[3831.06 --> 3831.38] you -[3831.38 --> 3831.90] do -[3831.90 --> 3832.28] not -[3832.28 --> 3833.12] be -[3833.12 --> 3834.14] afraid -[3834.14 --> 3834.94] let -[3834.94 --> 3835.06] the -[3835.06 --> 3835.32] blessing -[3835.32 --> 3835.52] of -[3835.52 --> 3835.70] God -[3835.70 --> 3835.88] come -[3835.88 --> 3836.12] upon -[3836.12 --> 3836.24] you -[3836.24 --> 3836.42] today -[3836.42 --> 3836.62] do -[3836.62 --> 3836.92] not -[3836.92 --> 3837.24] be -[3837.24 --> 3837.84] afraid -[3837.84 --> 3838.34] but -[3838.34 --> 3838.50] we -[3838.50 --> 3838.84] go -[3838.84 --> 3839.18] in -[3839.18 --> 3839.66] peace -[3839.66 --> 3839.92] to -[3839.92 --> 3840.30] love -[3840.30 --> 3840.90] and -[3840.90 --> 3841.40] serve -[3841.40 --> 3842.02] the -[3842.02 --> 3842.28] Lord -[3842.28 --> 3844.62] and so -[3844.62 --> 3845.16] as this -[3845.16 --> 3845.44] year -[3845.44 --> 3846.02] ends -[3846.02 --> 3848.56] as we -[3848.56 --> 3849.18] count down -[3849.18 --> 3849.54] to the -[3849.54 --> 3849.82] next -[3849.82 --> 3850.24] one -[3850.24 --> 3852.08] take -[3852.08 --> 3852.48] that -[3852.48 --> 3853.26] truth -[3853.26 --> 3853.64] with -[3853.64 --> 3854.08] you -[3854.08 --> 3854.78] through -[3854.78 --> 3854.94] it -[3854.94 --> 3855.22] all -[3855.22 --> 3855.90] whatever -[3855.90 --> 3856.26] all -[3856.26 --> 3856.50] may -[3856.50 --> 3856.80] be -[3856.80 --> 3860.38] look -[3860.38 --> 3860.56] there's -[3860.56 --> 3860.70] one -[3860.70 --> 3860.86] more -[3860.86 --> 3861.06] thing -[3861.06 --> 3861.22] to -[3861.22 --> 3861.44] say -[3861.44 --> 3861.76] here -[3861.76 --> 3863.46] because -[3863.46 --> 3865.04] left -[3865.04 --> 3865.58] here -[3865.58 --> 3867.38] this -[3867.38 --> 3868.06] message -[3868.06 --> 3868.46] may -[3868.46 --> 3868.78] not -[3868.78 --> 3869.30] actually -[3869.30 --> 3869.72] be -[3869.72 --> 3870.48] freeing -[3870.48 --> 3870.60] it -[3870.60 --> 3870.76] may -[3870.76 --> 3870.96] not -[3870.96 --> 3871.24] be -[3871.24 --> 3871.92] encouraging -[3871.92 --> 3872.24] but -[3872.24 --> 3872.96] we -[3872.96 --> 3873.26] run -[3873.26 --> 3873.48] the -[3873.48 --> 3873.80] risk -[3873.80 --> 3874.04] of -[3874.04 --> 3874.46] actually -[3874.46 --> 3874.88] being -[3874.88 --> 3875.34] left -[3875.34 --> 3875.64] in -[3875.64 --> 3875.90] our -[3875.90 --> 3876.68] burden -[3876.68 --> 3877.04] because -[3877.04 --> 3877.28] if -[3877.28 --> 3877.40] you -[3877.40 --> 3877.74] listen -[3877.74 --> 3878.38] closely -[3878.38 --> 3878.98] to -[3878.98 --> 3879.12] what -[3879.12 --> 3879.30] I've -[3879.30 --> 3879.54] said -[3879.54 --> 3879.78] it's -[3879.78 --> 3880.20] possible -[3880.20 --> 3880.42] that -[3880.42 --> 3880.52] you -[3880.52 --> 3880.66] will -[3880.66 --> 3880.90] walk -[3880.90 --> 3881.10] out -[3881.10 --> 3881.54] tonight -[3881.54 --> 3881.90] or -[3881.90 --> 3882.12] you'll -[3882.12 --> 3882.28] turn -[3882.28 --> 3882.44] the -[3882.44 --> 3882.68] TV -[3882.68 --> 3883.06] off -[3883.06 --> 3883.24] if -[3883.24 --> 3883.40] you're -[3883.40 --> 3883.52] at -[3883.52 --> 3883.80] home -[3883.80 --> 3884.26] and -[3884.26 --> 3884.40] you -[3884.40 --> 3884.56] will -[3884.56 --> 3884.76] think -[3884.76 --> 3885.14] okay -[3885.14 --> 3886.16] I -[3886.16 --> 3886.48] just -[3886.48 --> 3886.84] can't -[3886.84 --> 3887.04] be -[3887.04 --> 3887.44] afraid -[3887.44 --> 3888.46] I -[3888.46 --> 3888.62] just -[3888.62 --> 3888.76] have -[3888.76 --> 3888.88] to -[3888.88 --> 3889.12] not -[3889.12 --> 3889.34] be -[3889.34 --> 3889.72] afraid -[3889.72 --> 3890.56] I -[3890.56 --> 3890.72] have -[3890.72 --> 3890.84] to -[3890.84 --> 3891.14] go -[3891.14 --> 3891.44] and -[3891.44 --> 3891.66] do -[3891.66 --> 3892.00] things -[3892.00 --> 3892.36] without -[3892.36 --> 3892.76] fear -[3892.76 --> 3893.22] and -[3893.22 --> 3893.54] then -[3893.54 --> 3893.74] I -[3893.74 --> 3893.90] will -[3893.90 --> 3894.06] have -[3894.06 --> 3894.32] gotten -[3894.32 --> 3894.50] it -[3894.50 --> 3894.96] I -[3894.96 --> 3895.16] just -[3895.16 --> 3895.32] have -[3895.32 --> 3895.44] to -[3895.44 --> 3895.82] go -[3895.82 --> 3896.30] and -[3896.30 --> 3896.64] be -[3896.64 --> 3896.92] an -[3896.92 --> 3897.66] overcomer -[3897.66 --> 3900.12] problem -[3900.12 --> 3900.76] is -[3900.76 --> 3902.36] you haven't -[3902.36 --> 3902.92] actually dealt -[3902.92 --> 3903.28] with your -[3903.28 --> 3903.70] fear -[3903.70 --> 3905.12] right -[3905.12 --> 3905.54] the same -[3905.54 --> 3906.00] thing that -[3906.00 --> 3906.78] causes us -[3906.78 --> 3907.34] anxiety -[3907.34 --> 3908.08] are still -[3908.08 --> 3908.58] giving us -[3908.58 --> 3909.12] anxiety -[3909.12 --> 3909.84] the same -[3909.84 --> 3910.54] world events -[3910.54 --> 3910.92] that make -[3910.92 --> 3911.26] it hard -[3911.26 --> 3911.94] to rejoice -[3911.94 --> 3912.56] and to -[3912.56 --> 3913.20] live -[3913.20 --> 3913.90] boldly -[3913.90 --> 3914.56] are still -[3914.56 --> 3915.14] happening -[3915.14 --> 3916.26] right -[3916.26 --> 3916.58] and if -[3916.58 --> 3916.76] it -[3916.76 --> 3917.38] rests -[3917.38 --> 3917.70] in -[3917.70 --> 3918.24] my -[3918.24 --> 3918.88] doing -[3918.88 --> 3921.42] disillusionment -[3921.42 --> 3922.42] and apathy -[3922.42 --> 3923.88] are always -[3923.88 --> 3924.50] close at -[3924.50 --> 3924.84] hand -[3924.84 --> 3927.74] but Isaiah -[3927.74 --> 3928.52] gives us -[3928.52 --> 3929.32] what I want -[3929.32 --> 3929.84] to call -[3929.84 --> 3930.90] a gospel -[3930.90 --> 3931.52] guarantee -[3931.52 --> 3932.70] about this -[3932.70 --> 3933.50] new reality -[3933.50 --> 3934.24] this new way -[3934.24 --> 3934.68] of being -[3934.68 --> 3935.28] in the world -[3935.28 --> 3936.00] and I'm -[3936.00 --> 3936.64] sorry to -[3936.64 --> 3936.82] say -[3936.82 --> 3937.14] no I'm -[3937.14 --> 3937.58] not sorry -[3937.58 --> 3937.88] at all -[3937.88 --> 3938.16] actually -[3938.16 --> 3938.86] I'm not -[3938.86 --> 3939.30] sorry to -[3939.30 --> 3939.48] say -[3939.48 --> 3939.80] that it's -[3939.80 --> 3940.22] not about -[3940.22 --> 3940.64] you -[3940.64 --> 3941.78] but the -[3941.78 --> 3942.14] gospel -[3942.14 --> 3942.66] guarantee -[3942.66 --> 3943.64] is God -[3943.64 --> 3944.64] himself -[3944.64 --> 3946.54] when you -[3946.54 --> 3947.00] walk -[3947.00 --> 3947.84] through the -[3947.84 --> 3948.30] fires -[3948.30 --> 3949.08] you will -[3949.08 --> 3949.48] not be -[3949.48 --> 3949.92] burned -[3949.92 --> 3950.58] the flames -[3950.58 --> 3950.96] will not -[3950.96 --> 3951.38] set you -[3951.38 --> 3952.06] ablaze -[3952.06 --> 3953.40] for I -[3953.40 --> 3954.32] am -[3954.32 --> 3955.18] the Lord -[3955.18 --> 3956.08] your -[3956.08 --> 3957.18] God -[3957.18 --> 3958.86] the Holy -[3958.86 --> 3959.50] One of -[3959.50 --> 3960.06] Israel -[3960.06 --> 3961.22] your -[3961.22 --> 3962.36] Savior -[3962.36 --> 3965.08] the gospel -[3965.08 --> 3965.74] guarantee -[3965.74 --> 3967.20] isn't how -[3967.20 --> 3967.80] hard you -[3967.80 --> 3968.40] believe -[3968.40 --> 3969.08] or how -[3969.08 --> 3969.78] much you -[3969.78 --> 3970.44] work -[3970.44 --> 3971.30] or how -[3971.30 --> 3972.24] well you -[3972.24 --> 3972.76] live -[3972.76 --> 3973.36] without -[3973.36 --> 3973.90] fear -[3973.90 --> 3974.14] how -[3974.14 --> 3974.58] well you -[3974.58 --> 3974.86] live -[3974.86 --> 3975.24] as an -[3975.24 --> 3975.74] overcomer -[3975.74 --> 3976.26] the gospel -[3976.26 --> 3976.72] guarantee -[3976.72 --> 3977.94] isn't even -[3977.94 --> 3978.46] about how -[3978.46 --> 3978.86] much you -[3978.86 --> 3979.34] understand -[3979.34 --> 3979.96] or how -[3979.96 --> 3980.42] big your -[3980.42 --> 3981.12] faith is -[3981.12 --> 3981.96] the gospel -[3981.96 --> 3982.48] guarantee -[3982.48 --> 3983.30] based on the -[3983.30 --> 3983.70] word of -[3983.70 --> 3984.22] God's own -[3984.22 --> 3984.58] promise -[3984.58 --> 3985.58] is God -[3985.58 --> 3986.26] himself -[3986.26 --> 3988.34] since you -[3988.34 --> 3989.00] are precious -[3989.00 --> 3989.88] and honored -[3989.88 --> 3990.90] in my sight -[3990.90 --> 3991.76] and because -[3991.76 --> 3992.64] I love -[3992.64 --> 3993.02] you -[3993.02 --> 3993.98] God says -[3993.98 --> 3994.48] you are -[3994.48 --> 3995.14] precious -[3995.14 --> 3996.30] and honored -[3996.30 --> 3997.20] in his sight -[3997.20 --> 3998.18] he loves -[3998.18 --> 3998.50] you -[3998.50 --> 3999.20] and yes -[3999.20 --> 4000.50] yes -[4000.50 --> 4001.34] you are -[4001.34 --> 4001.98] more sinful -[4001.98 --> 4002.36] than you -[4002.36 --> 4002.62] would ever -[4002.62 --> 4003.12] dare admit -[4003.12 --> 4004.70] and yes -[4004.70 --> 4005.28] in sin -[4005.28 --> 4006.18] you and -[4006.18 --> 4006.74] I have -[4006.74 --> 4007.22] rejected -[4007.22 --> 4007.70] God -[4007.70 --> 4008.38] as God -[4008.38 --> 4008.76] and the -[4008.76 --> 4009.06] Lord -[4009.06 --> 4010.40] of your -[4010.40 --> 4011.24] life -[4011.24 --> 4013.60] but you -[4013.60 --> 4014.16] are yet -[4014.16 --> 4015.00] still -[4015.00 --> 4015.94] more -[4015.94 --> 4016.74] love -[4016.74 --> 4017.64] than you -[4017.64 --> 4018.32] could ever -[4018.32 --> 4019.42] imagine -[4019.42 --> 4020.48] possible -[4020.48 --> 4022.26] and out -[4022.26 --> 4022.76] of that -[4022.76 --> 4023.74] great love -[4023.74 --> 4024.38] for you -[4024.38 --> 4025.14] God -[4025.14 --> 4025.76] himself -[4025.76 --> 4026.54] in Jesus -[4026.54 --> 4027.02] Christ -[4027.02 --> 4027.80] entered -[4027.80 --> 4028.38] into -[4028.38 --> 4029.20] this -[4029.20 --> 4029.66] world -[4029.66 --> 4030.02] he -[4030.02 --> 4030.64] came -[4030.64 --> 4031.06] down -[4031.06 --> 4031.40] him -[4031.40 --> 4031.82] who -[4031.82 --> 4032.18] knew -[4032.18 --> 4032.46] no -[4032.46 --> 4032.88] sin -[4032.88 --> 4033.32] became -[4033.32 --> 4033.94] sin -[4033.94 --> 4034.62] for us -[4034.62 --> 4035.36] that we -[4035.36 --> 4035.90] might become -[4035.90 --> 4036.46] the righteousness -[4036.46 --> 4037.00] of God -[4037.00 --> 4037.82] he came -[4037.82 --> 4038.36] down and -[4038.36 --> 4038.82] lived the -[4038.82 --> 4039.26] life I -[4039.26 --> 4039.58] should have -[4039.58 --> 4040.08] lived and -[4040.08 --> 4040.66] died the -[4040.66 --> 4041.08] death -[4041.08 --> 4041.80] that I -[4041.80 --> 4042.48] deserve -[4042.48 --> 4043.18] that's what -[4043.18 --> 4043.62] it means -[4043.62 --> 4044.06] to be -[4044.06 --> 4044.82] loved of -[4044.82 --> 4045.14] God -[4045.14 --> 4045.80] and precious -[4045.80 --> 4047.02] in his -[4047.02 --> 4047.94] sight -[4047.94 --> 4050.40] three days -[4050.40 --> 4051.14] after dying -[4051.14 --> 4051.82] on that cross -[4051.82 --> 4052.38] he was -[4052.38 --> 4052.86] raised -[4052.86 --> 4053.46] victorious -[4053.46 --> 4054.28] over sin -[4054.28 --> 4055.18] and death -[4055.18 --> 4056.00] and hell -[4056.00 --> 4056.72] and out -[4056.72 --> 4057.14] of that -[4057.14 --> 4057.66] same -[4057.66 --> 4058.20] love -[4058.20 --> 4058.94] he now -[4058.94 --> 4059.70] gives you -[4059.70 --> 4060.62] life -[4060.62 --> 4061.98] that is -[4061.98 --> 4062.80] your do not -[4062.80 --> 4063.62] be afraid -[4063.62 --> 4064.48] life -[4064.48 --> 4065.34] that's God's -[4065.34 --> 4066.28] gospel guarantee -[4066.28 --> 4067.66] and his name -[4067.66 --> 4068.16] is -[4068.16 --> 4069.24] Jesus -[4069.24 --> 4073.24] so as you go -[4073.24 --> 4073.86] tonight -[4073.86 --> 4075.28] whether you go -[4075.28 --> 4075.74] from here -[4075.74 --> 4076.40] to home -[4076.40 --> 4077.62] or wherever -[4077.62 --> 4078.42] you go -[4078.42 --> 4080.36] take these -[4080.36 --> 4081.44] three things -[4081.44 --> 4082.52] with you -[4082.52 --> 4083.50] you close -[4083.50 --> 4083.94] out this -[4083.94 --> 4084.22] year -[4084.22 --> 4085.28] and as you -[4085.28 --> 4085.64] start the -[4085.64 --> 4085.90] next -[4085.90 --> 4087.64] first -[4087.64 --> 4089.76] regardless -[4089.76 --> 4090.56] of how -[4090.56 --> 4091.14] loud -[4091.14 --> 4092.00] the world -[4092.00 --> 4092.86] sounds -[4092.86 --> 4093.62] it's -[4093.62 --> 4094.12] gone -[4094.12 --> 4095.06] there is -[4095.06 --> 4095.80] never -[4095.80 --> 4097.24] a real -[4097.24 --> 4097.90] existential -[4097.90 --> 4098.54] threat -[4098.54 --> 4099.42] to reality -[4099.42 --> 4100.30] that God -[4100.30 --> 4101.28] hasn't already -[4101.28 --> 4101.88] overcome -[4101.88 --> 4103.68] thanks be -[4103.68 --> 4104.22] to God -[4104.22 --> 4104.80] he has -[4104.80 --> 4105.36] given us -[4105.36 --> 4106.06] the victory -[4106.06 --> 4107.10] in Jesus -[4107.10 --> 4107.58] Christ -[4107.58 --> 4108.58] sin and -[4108.58 --> 4109.12] death have -[4109.12 --> 4109.88] been dealt -[4109.88 --> 4110.42] with and -[4110.42 --> 4111.24] will be dealt -[4111.24 --> 4112.22] with by God -[4112.22 --> 4113.38] on his terms -[4113.38 --> 4114.52] in his time -[4114.52 --> 4115.24] and so yes -[4115.24 --> 4116.54] while creation -[4116.54 --> 4118.00] is yet groaning -[4118.00 --> 4118.94] under the weight -[4118.94 --> 4120.00] of sin -[4120.00 --> 4121.08] creation is also -[4121.08 --> 4122.44] longing as in the -[4122.44 --> 4123.34] pangs of birth -[4123.34 --> 4125.00] to be remade -[4125.00 --> 4125.44] to be -[4125.44 --> 4126.44] consummated -[4126.44 --> 4127.88] and refined -[4127.88 --> 4128.76] as in fire -[4128.76 --> 4129.54] and to be -[4129.54 --> 4130.94] made pure -[4130.94 --> 4134.54] to the one -[4134.54 --> 4135.70] who overcomes -[4135.70 --> 4137.16] eternal life -[4137.16 --> 4138.20] has already -[4138.20 --> 4139.14] been -[4139.14 --> 4139.96] granted -[4139.96 --> 4143.08] so check -[4143.08 --> 4143.80] your existential -[4143.80 --> 4144.48] crisis -[4144.48 --> 4145.46] at the foot -[4145.46 --> 4146.10] of the throne -[4146.10 --> 4147.24] the eternal -[4147.24 --> 4147.60] king -[4147.60 --> 4150.02] two -[4150.02 --> 4152.26] that doesn't -[4152.26 --> 4152.60] mean -[4152.60 --> 4153.36] there's nothing -[4153.36 --> 4154.14] for you to do -[4154.14 --> 4155.78] that was a double -[4155.78 --> 4156.36] negative so let me -[4156.36 --> 4156.78] say it again -[4156.78 --> 4157.70] that means -[4157.70 --> 4158.22] there's something -[4158.22 --> 4159.04] for you to do -[4159.04 --> 4160.90] right -[4160.90 --> 4162.10] because of God's -[4162.10 --> 4162.74] presence -[4162.74 --> 4163.74] because of the -[4163.74 --> 4164.40] hope that you -[4164.40 --> 4165.30] have in him -[4165.30 --> 4166.50] you can now -[4166.50 --> 4167.74] respond in -[4167.74 --> 4168.30] generosity -[4168.30 --> 4169.50] and grace -[4169.50 --> 4170.46] and abundance -[4170.46 --> 4171.42] to meet the -[4171.42 --> 4171.94] challenges -[4171.94 --> 4173.02] of our day -[4173.02 --> 4173.64] whatever that may -[4173.64 --> 4174.24] be whether it is -[4174.24 --> 4174.62] climate -[4174.62 --> 4175.56] or pandemic -[4175.56 --> 4176.62] or politics -[4176.62 --> 4177.16] or law -[4177.16 --> 4177.62] injustice -[4177.62 --> 4178.28] or poverty -[4178.28 --> 4179.04] or death -[4179.04 --> 4179.56] and disease -[4179.56 --> 4179.98] whether it's -[4179.98 --> 4180.48] persecution -[4180.48 --> 4181.62] or martyrdom -[4181.62 --> 4182.18] whether it's -[4182.18 --> 4182.98] paying a social -[4182.98 --> 4183.86] cost for being -[4183.86 --> 4184.52] a Christian -[4184.52 --> 4185.46] whatever trial -[4185.46 --> 4186.40] or tribulation -[4186.40 --> 4187.24] or trouble -[4187.24 --> 4187.82] we face -[4187.82 --> 4189.52] fear not -[4189.52 --> 4190.96] for I am -[4190.96 --> 4192.08] with you -[4192.08 --> 4194.22] always -[4194.22 --> 4195.88] to the very end -[4195.88 --> 4196.32] of the age -[4196.32 --> 4198.72] and then -[4198.72 --> 4198.98] three -[4198.98 --> 4199.64] take this -[4199.64 --> 4201.24] as Christians -[4201.24 --> 4202.26] even though -[4202.26 --> 4202.88] the temptation -[4202.88 --> 4203.68] is common -[4203.68 --> 4204.64] to us all -[4204.64 --> 4205.20] the trials -[4205.20 --> 4206.02] are common -[4206.02 --> 4206.60] to us all -[4206.60 --> 4207.44] we must -[4207.44 --> 4208.56] not be -[4208.56 --> 4209.18] the type -[4209.18 --> 4209.76] of people -[4209.76 --> 4210.68] who give -[4210.68 --> 4211.22] into -[4211.22 --> 4212.26] disillusionment -[4212.26 --> 4213.54] who succumb -[4213.54 --> 4214.32] to apathy -[4214.32 --> 4215.02] or who are -[4215.02 --> 4215.80] ruled by -[4215.80 --> 4216.40] fear -[4216.40 --> 4218.38] now of course -[4218.38 --> 4219.10] if we put -[4219.10 --> 4219.70] our hopes -[4219.70 --> 4220.46] in the wrong -[4220.46 --> 4220.92] places -[4220.92 --> 4222.16] we will always -[4222.16 --> 4222.90] be disappointed -[4222.90 --> 4224.00] if we put -[4224.00 --> 4224.30] our hopes -[4224.30 --> 4224.92] in governments -[4224.92 --> 4225.54] in economic -[4225.54 --> 4225.94] systems -[4225.94 --> 4226.56] in elections -[4226.56 --> 4227.84] in PHOs -[4227.84 --> 4228.48] in masks -[4228.48 --> 4229.08] and mandates -[4229.08 --> 4229.62] or in the -[4229.62 --> 4229.98] removal -[4229.98 --> 4231.28] of all -[4231.28 --> 4231.92] masks -[4231.92 --> 4232.50] and mandates -[4232.50 --> 4232.78] and the -[4232.78 --> 4233.12] cancellation -[4233.12 --> 4233.72] of all -[4233.72 --> 4234.30] supposed -[4234.30 --> 4234.72] government -[4234.72 --> 4235.20] overreach -[4235.20 --> 4235.70] if we put -[4235.70 --> 4236.02] our hope -[4236.02 --> 4236.56] in anything -[4236.56 --> 4237.40] like that -[4237.40 --> 4237.88] in anything -[4237.88 --> 4238.42] that is not -[4238.42 --> 4239.10] God revealed -[4239.10 --> 4239.62] in Jesus -[4239.62 --> 4240.08] Christ -[4240.08 --> 4240.92] none of them -[4240.92 --> 4241.12] are going -[4241.12 --> 4241.68] to cut it -[4241.68 --> 4243.72] wealth -[4243.72 --> 4244.36] distribution -[4244.36 --> 4245.44] or redistribution -[4245.44 --> 4246.54] carbon taxes -[4246.54 --> 4247.60] climate incentives -[4247.60 --> 4248.68] aren't going -[4248.68 --> 4249.46] to change -[4249.46 --> 4250.92] human nature -[4250.92 --> 4253.20] new laws -[4253.20 --> 4253.92] more money -[4253.92 --> 4255.24] a living wage -[4255.24 --> 4255.98] isn't going -[4255.98 --> 4256.70] to transform -[4256.70 --> 4257.26] hearts -[4257.26 --> 4258.36] and minds -[4258.36 --> 4258.78] at least -[4258.78 --> 4259.12] not -[4259.12 --> 4259.98] ultimately -[4259.98 --> 4262.04] only one -[4262.04 --> 4262.56] person -[4262.56 --> 4263.58] will do that -[4263.58 --> 4264.42] and his name -[4264.42 --> 4265.10] is -[4265.10 --> 4265.90] Jesus -[4265.90 --> 4266.54] Jesus -[4266.54 --> 4267.32] by the working -[4267.32 --> 4268.60] of the Holy Spirit -[4268.60 --> 4270.02] in your heart -[4270.02 --> 4270.44] and mind -[4270.44 --> 4271.14] now all of those -[4271.14 --> 4271.90] things that we have -[4271.90 --> 4272.30] mentioned -[4272.30 --> 4273.52] may be good -[4273.52 --> 4275.94] in fact most of them -[4275.94 --> 4276.52] are -[4276.52 --> 4277.62] we might even -[4277.62 --> 4278.48] fight for them -[4278.48 --> 4279.10] we might even -[4279.10 --> 4279.98] fight on the side -[4279.98 --> 4280.40] of them -[4280.40 --> 4281.68] but our hope -[4281.68 --> 4282.76] your hope -[4282.76 --> 4284.28] is in -[4284.28 --> 4285.28] Jesus -[4285.28 --> 4286.64] and he will -[4286.64 --> 4287.26] never -[4287.26 --> 4288.34] disappoint -[4288.34 --> 4291.34] I am the Lord -[4291.34 --> 4291.86] your God -[4291.86 --> 4292.70] the Holy One -[4292.70 --> 4293.44] of Israel -[4293.44 --> 4294.34] your Savior -[4294.34 --> 4296.06] you are precious -[4296.06 --> 4297.44] and honored -[4297.44 --> 4299.04] in my sight -[4299.04 --> 4300.96] I love you -[4300.96 --> 4302.58] says the Lord -[4302.58 --> 4304.16] do not -[4304.16 --> 4304.92] be -[4304.92 --> 4305.94] afraid -[4305.94 --> 4307.80] for I -[4307.80 --> 4309.40] am with you -[4309.40 --> 4310.76] amen -[4310.76 --> 4312.28] let's pray -[4312.28 --> 4320.22] holy -[4320.22 --> 4320.82] father -[4320.82 --> 4321.84] god -[4321.84 --> 4324.56] be -[4324.56 --> 4325.64] our -[4325.64 --> 4326.86] guarantee -[4326.86 --> 4330.44] be to us -[4330.44 --> 4331.08] the source -[4331.08 --> 4331.54] of -[4331.54 --> 4332.62] your gospel -[4332.62 --> 4335.74] be to us -[4335.74 --> 4336.34] the source -[4336.34 --> 4337.24] of power -[4337.24 --> 4338.28] and of true -[4338.28 --> 4339.42] meaningful change -[4339.42 --> 4340.46] in our lives -[4340.46 --> 4341.74] and in this world -[4341.74 --> 4344.12] send us out -[4344.12 --> 4344.52] now -[4344.52 --> 4345.64] convicted -[4345.64 --> 4346.68] send us out -[4346.68 --> 4347.12] now -[4347.12 --> 4348.08] challenged -[4348.08 --> 4348.96] send us out -[4348.96 --> 4349.44] now -[4349.44 --> 4350.50] restored -[4350.50 --> 4351.38] to your -[4351.38 --> 4352.24] purposes -[4352.24 --> 4353.34] for us -[4353.34 --> 4355.86] wherever we -[4355.86 --> 4356.18] go -[4356.18 --> 4357.14] in these next -[4357.14 --> 4357.68] hours -[4357.68 --> 4358.96] these next -[4358.96 --> 4359.40] days -[4359.40 --> 4360.90] may we -[4360.90 --> 4361.22] know -[4361.22 --> 4361.90] that you -[4361.90 --> 4362.86] go -[4362.86 --> 4364.22] with us -[4364.22 --> 4366.34] Christ -[4366.34 --> 4366.82] Jesus -[4366.82 --> 4367.40] we pray -[4367.40 --> 4368.92] amen -[4368.92 --> 4371.24] Me -[4371.24 --> 4371.78] to hear -[4371.78 --> 4374.16] of you -[4374.16 --> 4374.62] and -[4374.62 --> 4376.90] Jump -[4376.94 --> 4376.96] go -[4376.96 --> 4377.46] up -[4377.46 --> 4378.42] as -[4378.42 --> 4378.62] there -[4378.62 --> 4379.24] l -[4379.24 --> 4379.62] height -[4379.62 --> 4379.66] to hear -[4379.66 --> 4392.58] of you -[4392.58 --> 4394.48] as -[4394.48 --> 4423.00] And even though I walk -[4423.00 --> 4427.78] Through the valley of the shadow of death -[4427.78 --> 4433.32] Your perfect love is casting out fear -[4433.32 --> 4441.58] And even when I'm caught in the middle of the storms of this life -[4441.58 --> 4446.80] I won't turn back, I know you are near -[4446.80 --> 4451.32] And I will fear no fear -[4451.32 --> 4460.74] For my God is with me -[4460.74 --> 4467.64] And if my God is with me -[4467.64 --> 4471.30] Whom then shall I fear? -[4471.30 --> 4475.18] Whom then shall I fear? -[4475.18 --> 4480.12] Oh no, you never let go -[4480.12 --> 4483.68] Through the calm and through the storm -[4483.68 --> 4486.90] Oh no, you never let go -[4486.90 --> 4490.26] In every heart and every soul -[4490.26 --> 4493.84] Oh no, you never let go -[4493.84 --> 4499.26] Lord, you never let go of me -[4499.26 --> 4507.26] I can see the light that is coming -[4507.26 --> 4510.26] For the heart that holds on -[4510.26 --> 4515.26] A glorious light beyond all compare -[4515.26 --> 4520.50] There will be an end to these troubles -[4520.50 --> 4523.68] But until that day comes -[4523.68 --> 4528.68] We'll live to know you here on this earth -[4528.68 --> 4535.68] And I will fear no evil -[4535.68 --> 4542.10] For my God is with me -[4542.10 --> 4550.10] And if my God is with me -[4550.10 --> 4551.52] Whom then shall I fear? -[4551.52 --> 4552.52] Am I near? -[4552.52 --> 4553.52] Am I near? -[4553.52 --> 4554.52] Who am I near? -[4554.52 --> 4555.52] Who am I near? -[4555.52 --> 4562.28] Oh no, you never let go -[4562.28 --> 4565.76] Through the calm and through the storm -[4565.76 --> 4569.10] Oh no, you never let go -[4569.10 --> 4572.44] In every high and every low -[4572.44 --> 4575.96] Oh no, you never let go -[4575.96 --> 4578.80] Oh no, you never let go -[4585.52 --> 4588.52] Yes, I can see the light that is coming -[4588.52 --> 4591.84] For the heart that holds on -[4591.84 --> 4595.50] There will be a debt to these troubles -[4595.50 --> 4599.18] But until that day comes -[4599.18 --> 4603.22] Still I will praise you -[4603.22 --> 4606.78] Still I will praise you -[4606.78 --> 4615.50] Yes, I can see the light that is coming -[4615.50 --> 4618.82] For the heart that holds on -[4618.82 --> 4622.32] And there will be an end to these troubles -[4622.32 --> 4626.06] But until that day comes -[4626.06 --> 4630.30] Still I will praise you -[4630.30 --> 4634.50] Still I will praise you -[4634.50 --> 4643.50] Oh no, you never let go -[4643.50 --> 4646.82] Through the calm and through the storm -[4646.82 --> 4650.32] Oh no, you never let go -[4650.32 --> 4654.06] In every high and every low -[4654.06 --> 4657.38] Oh no, you never let go -[4657.38 --> 4659.38] Oh no, you never let go -[4659.38 --> 4680.60] We go now with our God who goes with us -[4680.60 --> 4682.74] And never leave us nor forsake us -[4682.74 --> 4685.88] And so go with his blessing -[4685.88 --> 4689.24] God go before you -[4689.24 --> 4693.00] God go behind you -[4693.00 --> 4693.96] To guard you -[4693.96 --> 4695.36] God go beneath you -[4695.36 --> 4696.32] To support you -[4696.32 --> 4697.78] And God go beside you -[4697.78 --> 4698.84] To befriend you -[4698.84 --> 4701.22] Do not be afraid -[4701.22 --> 4703.04] Let the blessing of God -[4703.04 --> 4703.96] Come upon you today -[4703.96 --> 4705.66] Do not be afraid -[4705.66 --> 4707.14] But go -[4707.14 --> 4708.76] In peace -[4708.76 --> 4709.84] To love -[4709.84 --> 4710.90] And serve -[4710.90 --> 4711.80] The Lord -[4711.80 --> 4712.88] Amen -[4712.88 --> 4713.66] Amen -[4713.70 --> 4714.58] Amen -[4714.58 --> 4718.62] Amen -[4718.62 --> 4722.34] Ibles -[4722.34 --> 4726.84] Amen -[4736.24 --> 4736.98] I事 -[4736.98 --> 4741.28] I -[4741.28 --> 4751.78] Nothing of our efforts said, though lay the sea survive. -[4751.78 --> 4763.42] Unless the Lord does praise the hearts, in vain its builders strive. -[4763.42 --> 4775.50] To you who boast tomorrow's name, tell me, what is your life? -[4775.50 --> 4787.64] A mist that vanishes at dawn, all glory be to Christ. -[4787.64 --> 4798.64] All glory be to Christ our King, all glory be to Christ. -[4799.72 --> 4810.64] His rule and reign we'll ever sing, all glory be to Christ. -[4810.64 --> 4821.72] His will be done, His kingdom come, on earth as is above. -[4823.18 --> 4834.46] Who is Himself our daily bread? Praise Him, Lord of all. -[4834.46 --> 4846.54] Let living waters satisfy the thirsty with a price. -[4846.54 --> 4858.12] We'll drink a cup of kindness yet, all glory be to Christ. -[4858.12 --> 4869.76] All glory be to Christ our King, all glory be to Christ. -[4869.76 --> 4881.48] His rule and reign we'll ever sing, all glory be to Christ. -[4881.48 --> 4893.12] When on the day the great I am, the faithful and the true. -[4893.12 --> 4905.02] The Lamb who was for sinners slain is making all things new. -[4905.02 --> 4916.92] He, all our God shall live with us and be our steadfast light. -[4916.92 --> 4922.66] And we shall ever be for sinners. -[4922.66 --> 4928.82] All glory be to Christ. -[4928.82 --> 4940.82] All glory be to Christ. -[4940.82 --> 4942.82] All glory be to Christ. -[4942.82 --> 4953.82] His rule and reign we'll ever sing, all glory be to Christ. -[4953.82 --> 4955.82] All glory be to Christ. -[4955.82 --> 4960.82] All glory be to Christ. -[4960.82 --> 4966.82] All glory be to Christ. -[4966.82 --> 4980.82] His rule and reign we'll ever sing, all glory be to Christ. -[4980.82 --> 4987.82] His rule and reign. -[4987.82 --> 4993.82] All glory be to Christ. -[4993.82 --> 4998.82] All glory be to Christ. -[4998.82 --> 4999.82] All glory be to Christ. -[4999.82 --> 5005.32] I'll see the throne all glory be to Christ. -[5005.32 --> 5011.82] Aluminous'll will holy and reign Jerve Abs прод Wifications. -[5011.82 --> 5041.80] Thank you. -[5041.82 --> 5062.12] Thank you. -[5071.82 --> 5101.80] Thank you. diff --git a/Ordination of Pastor Kevin, October 29, 2025_summary.txt b/Ordination of Pastor Kevin, October 29, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 88bf9ea0c405f67e77bfcf7f6b23274fbfcb0268..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Ordination of Pastor Kevin, October 29, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,101 +0,0 @@ -• Troubled sea and lighthouse as a metaphor for hope and guidance -• Trusting in God's promise to carry you safe to shore -• Overcoming fears, pain, and shame with God's love -• Eternity and heaven as a place of eternal peace and joy -• Worship and adoration of God in heaven -• Ordination of Kevin Lobert as a minister in the Christian Reformed Church -• Welcome and introduction to guests visiting for the ordination ceremony -• Invitation to participate in the ordination ceremony and installation of Kevin Lobert -• Explanation of the significance of the ordination and installation -• Reception of God's greeting through prayer and worship -• Welcoming and acknowledging the presence of guests -• Psalm 145 discussed in relation to praising God -• Importance of worship and devotion to God -• Ministry and pastoral care, including preaching, teaching, and administering sacraments -• Responsibilities of a pastor, including caring for congregation members and their needs -• Role of a minister in serving the Church of Christ -• The role of a minister as a servant of Christ and their responsibilities in evangelism and promoting the work of the Church -• The importance of prayer and devotion to ministry, including proclamation, explanation, and application of Holy Scripture -• A personal testimony about singing "hallelujah" and praising God with one's entire being -• Introduction of Kevin, a pastor, and his ordination vows, as well as his 17 years in youth ministry -• Discussion on the significance of vows in ministry, particularly for office bearers in churches -• Ordination ceremony for Kevin Loebert -• Review of church doctrinal standards and promises made by the ordinand -• Invocation of prayer and blessing from church members -• Ordaining pastor's prayers for Kevin's ministry and service to the church -• Blessing and commissioning of Kevin for his new role -• Introduction and welcome of Kevin by Pastor Jenna Fabiano -• Invitation to congregation to stand and make a vow to Kevin -• Vow to welcome Kevin as minister and pastor, pray for him, share in his work, encourage him, and respond to his work with obedience and love -• Commissioning and congratulations to Kevin on his ordination to the ministry of the word -• Encouragement to congregation to keep their vows, receive Kevin as a gift from God, listen to him with respect, and pray for him daily -• Final prayers and worship -• Invitation for Jesus to come -• Worship songs and prayers -• Introduction of guests and dignitaries -• Congratulatory speech by Eric Woodward, Mayor of Langley -• Welcome message by Joe Ladum on behalf of MLA Harmon Mungu -• Message from MP Teiko Venpapta's office, delivered by Reverend Wout Brower -• Personal congratulations from Reverend Stephen Birkenpass -• The speaker welcomes Reverend Gord Schultz, representing Langley Ministerial. -• The speaker praises the new pastor's faith and potential impact on the community. -• Reverend Schultz encourages the new pastor to step into his role with conviction and boldness in proclaiming biblical truth. -• He expresses gratitude for the opportunity to ordain another pastor, citing a growing shortage of pastors in Canada. -• A hymn is sung, "Ancient of Days", expressing trust and confidence in God's power and presence. -• Kevin's first visit to the church 17 years ago -• Pastor's initial warning to Kevin about the typical lifespan of youth pastors (3 years) -• The pastor's positive assessment of Kevin's 17-year tenure and his support system -• The laying on of hands ceremony and the passing of God's authority through Jesus Christ -• A reading from 1 Kings 22 about a prophet and a king, emphasizing the grounding in God's Word -• The king of Israel is planning to go to war against Ramoth-Gilead and seeks the counsel of prophets. -• Micaiah, a prophet who always speaks bad about the king, is summoned and says he can only speak what the Lord tells him. -• The other prophets are predicting success for the king, but Micaiah prophesies that the king will be wounded in battle. -• A commentary on how people prefer pleasant words over true ones, and how flattery is a threat to the church. -• The importance of speaking God's truth, even if it's difficult or uncomfortable. -• Jehoshaphat's request for a prophet is honored with 400 prophets who tell Ahab what he wants to hear -• Ahab knows his prophets are not inquiring of the Lord, but instead of the king -• Micaiah is introduced as the only one who prophesies truthfully, despite being disliked by Ahab -• The 400 prophets use the right words (Yahweh or Adonai) to maintain influence and power over Ahab -• They give false messages using cultural shibboleths and a dog whistle effect -• The temptation to predict success or say good things for popularity -• The risk of becoming a puppet when telling a prophet what to predict -• The external temptation to say what people want to hear, a common issue in all cultures and churches throughout history -• The current ease of finding messages that confirm one's existing beliefs due to social media and algorithms -• The danger of curating information and creating echo chambers that shape one's experience of reality and reinforce their own perspectives -• The temptation in the heart of preachers to say what people want to hear for personal gain -• The speaker's goal is to exceed expectations and achieve success in their work -• The importance of being authentic and not editing God's word to make it more palatable -• Contrasting "itching ears" with sound doctrine, which is healthy teaching that nourishes the soul and strengthens the church -• The dangers of presenting a watered-down version of Christianity, such as trading the language of sin and grace for self-help principles -• The need for faithful preachers to stick to God's word, even if it's not easy or pleasant -• The importance of sound doctrine in contrast to new things -• The dangers of softening Christian doctrine for the sake of new ideas and people's happiness -• The distinction between dogma and living truth about a living God -• The role of the preacher in proclaiming the Lord's words and not relying on opinions or entertainment -• The need for sound doctrine to lead to lived discipleship and a relationship with Jesus Christ -• Jesus turns to his disciples and asks if they will run away too after others have fled. -• Peter responds by saying that they should go where Jesus is because he has the words of eternal life. -• The preacher's task is not to soften or make truth easier, but to proclaim Christ until hearts burn with understanding. -• A true prophet says what they show, and a preacher must make God's word and its transformation visible in their own life. -• A pastor's life should be vocal, and sermons should be practiced as well as preached. -• Congregations shape their own prophets through teachers and preaching. -• The health of a church's pulpit corresponds to the hunger for truth among its members. -• Worship is not just about feeling good, but also about meeting the living Jesus and being transformed by his word. -• Pastors should have courage to speak the Lord's words without fear, and congregations should hold them accountable to God's word. -• Encourage faithfulness, depth, and obedience in pastors over eloquence or entertainment. -• Life and death, transformation of hearts and lives -• The voice of the Lord, Jesus as the word of eternal life -• Prayer for God's word to transform lives, spark imagination, and speak truth -• Restoration of relationships, reconciliation, and salvation -• Worshiping God alone for glory and name -• Filling vision with beauty, ears and minds with word, and hearts with love -• Jesus prayer -• Reading of "Be Thou My Vision" -• Personal gratitude for family, staff, colleagues, and church members -• Acknowledgment of education process and support from others -• Thanks to specific individuals, including former staff and friends -• The speaker expresses gratitude to God for speaking through the audience and encouraging them. -• They thank the church community at Emmanuel for their love, support, and care. -• The speaker leads a prayer of blessing from God, quoting scripture. -• A hymn or song is sung, with repeated phrases "I am not my own" and "but belong body and soul". -• The speaker reiterates their commitment to belonging to God in life and death. \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Ordination of Pastor Kevin, October 29, 2025_transcript.txt b/Ordination of Pastor Kevin, October 29, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 72c46f8af0d44d60fafbcd8516c09e7d6346fc8c..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Ordination of Pastor Kevin, October 29, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1857 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 62.00] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 92.00] Thank you. -[92.00 --> 94.00] Thank you. -[94.00 --> 96.00] Thank you. -[96.00 --> 98.00] Thank you. -[98.00 --> 100.00] Thank you. -[100.00 --> 102.00] Thank you. -[102.00 --> 104.00] Thank you. -[104.00 --> 108.00] Thank you. -[108.00 --> 113.12] You are the peace in my troubled sea -[113.12 --> 119.84] My lighthouse, my lighthouse -[119.84 --> 124.22] Shining in the darkness, I will follow you -[124.22 --> 128.58] My lighthouse, my lighthouse -[128.58 --> 134.22] I will trust the promise, you will carry me safe to shore -[134.22 --> 138.62] Safe to shore -[138.62 --> 142.98] Safe to shore -[142.98 --> 147.36] Safe to shore -[147.36 --> 155.20] I won't feel what tomorrow brings -[155.20 --> 159.28] With each morning I'll rise and sing -[159.28 --> 163.52] My God's love will lead me through -[163.52 --> 167.90] You are the peace in my troubled sea -[167.90 --> 173.08] You are the peace in my troubled sea -[173.08 --> 175.68] You are my light -[175.68 --> 179.90] My lighthouse, my lighthouse -[179.90 --> 184.20] Shining in the darkness, I will follow you -[184.20 --> 188.62] My lighthouse, my lighthouse -[188.62 --> 193.00] I will trust the promise, you will carry me -[193.00 --> 194.18] Safe to shore -[194.18 --> 198.68] Safe to shore -[198.68 --> 203.02] Safe to shore -[203.02 --> 207.00] Safe to shore -[207.00 --> 211.38] Fire before us -[211.38 --> 213.18] Fire before us -[213.18 --> 214.56] You're the brightest -[214.56 --> 219.56] You will lead us through the storms -[219.56 --> 221.92] Fire before us -[221.92 --> 223.38] You're the brightest -[223.38 --> 228.16] You will lead us through the storms -[228.16 --> 237.72] Fire before us -[237.72 --> 238.72] Fire before us -[238.72 --> 239.72] You're the brightest -[239.72 --> 245.54] You will lead us through the storms -[245.54 --> 249.92] My lighthouse, my lighthouse -[249.92 --> 250.50] My lighthouse, my lighthouse -[250.50 --> 254.10] Shining in the darkness, I will follow you -[254.10 --> 258.14] My lighthouse, my lighthouse -[258.14 --> 262.80] I will trust the promise, you will carry me -[262.80 --> 264.10] Safe to shore -[264.10 --> 268.48] Safe to shore -[268.48 --> 275.24] Safe to shore -[275.24 --> 277.22] Safe to shore -[277.22 --> 287.24] Safe to shore -[287.24 --> 289.18] Safe to shore -[289.18 --> 295.72] Safe to shore -[295.72 --> 316.70] I will be yours, you will be mine -[316.70 --> 321.70] Together in eternity -[321.70 --> 328.70] Our hearts of love will be entwined -[329.34 --> 333.70] Together in eternity -[334.28 --> 340.70] Forever in eternity -[340.70 --> 360.34] I will be yours, you will be mine -[360.34 --> 365.34] Together in eternity -[365.34 --> 372.34] Our hearts of love will be entwined -[372.34 --> 377.34] Together in eternity -[377.34 --> 383.34] Forever in eternity -[383.34 --> 399.34] No more tears of pain in our eyes -[399.34 --> 411.34] No more fear or shame -[411.34 --> 416.34] For we will be with you -[416.34 --> 424.34] Yes, we will be with you -[424.34 --> 440.34] We will be with you -[440.34 --> 446.84] We will see your face -[446.84 --> 449.84] And together -[449.84 --> 454.34] We will worship -[454.34 --> 459.34] We will worship you -[459.34 --> 464.34] Forever -[464.34 --> 467.34] We will worship -[467.34 --> 471.34] We will worship you -[471.34 --> 477.34] Forever -[477.34 --> 479.34] We will personally worship you -[479.34 --> 480.34] We will worship you -[480.34 --> 482.34] We will toujours worship you -[482.34 --> 484.34] Our hearts so much -[484.34 --> 486.34] You may my traversade -[486.34 --> 489.34] We will worship you -[489.34 --> 490.34] Because we are all set -[490.34 --> 503.34] �낮 -[507.34 --> 514.78] This world is not what it was meant to be -[514.78 --> 519.76] All this pain, all this suffering -[519.76 --> 527.46] There's a better place waiting for me in heaven -[532.46 --> 537.22] Every tear will be wiped away -[537.22 --> 543.18] Every sorrow and sin erased -[543.18 --> 548.64] We'll dance on seas of amazing grace -[548.64 --> 552.82] In heaven, in heaven -[552.82 --> 557.62] I'm going home where the streets are golden -[557.62 --> 560.48] Every chain is broken -[560.48 --> 563.22] Oh, I want to go -[563.22 --> 566.98] Oh, I want to go home -[566.98 --> 569.18] Every fear is calm -[569.18 --> 572.26] I'm in your open arms -[572.26 --> 575.14] Where I belong -[575.14 --> 579.10] Home -[579.10 --> 580.10] Home -[580.10 --> 590.86] Lay down my burdens -[590.86 --> 593.90] I lay down my past -[593.90 --> 596.60] I run to Jesus -[596.60 --> 600.36] No turning back -[600.36 --> 602.56] Thank God Almighty -[602.56 --> 603.44] I'll be free -[603.44 --> 605.24] I'll be free at last -[605.24 --> 606.52] In heaven -[606.52 --> 608.52] In heaven -[608.52 --> 611.52] I'm going home -[611.52 --> 614.08] Where the streets are golden -[614.08 --> 616.96] Every chain is broken -[616.96 --> 619.80] Oh, I want to go -[619.80 --> 623.44] Oh, I want to go home -[623.44 --> 625.40] Every fear is gone -[625.40 --> 625.68] Every fear is gone -[625.68 --> 628.76] I'm in your open arms -[628.76 --> 631.40] Where I belong -[631.40 --> 635.36] Blonde in heaven -[635.36 --> 635.58] Blonde in heaven -[635.58 --> 636.36] Blonde in heaven -[636.36 --> 638.36] We'll finally see -[638.36 --> 641.36] The dead will rise -[641.36 --> 644.36] On the shores of eternity -[644.36 --> 646.32] The drum will sound -[646.32 --> 647.32] The drum will sound -[647.32 --> 649.32] The angels will sing -[649.32 --> 650.32] Hallelujah -[650.32 --> 651.32] Hallelujah -[651.32 --> 652.32] Hallelujah -[652.32 --> 656.32] I am going home -[656.32 --> 659.32] Where the streets are golden -[659.32 --> 662.12] Every chain is broken -[662.12 --> 664.92] Oh, I want to go -[664.92 --> 668.32] Oh, I want to go home -[668.32 --> 670.72] Every fear is gone -[670.72 --> 673.88] I'm in your open arms -[673.88 --> 676.76] Where I belong -[676.76 --> 682.68] Where I belong -[682.68 --> 689.80] I'm going home -[689.80 --> 695.12] I'm going home -[695.12 --> 701.16] I'm on my way home -[701.16 --> 706.36] I'm going home -[706.36 --> 707.16] I'm going home -[707.16 --> 711.16] I'm on my way home -[711.16 --> 720.16] I'm going home -[720.16 --> 744.12] I'm going home -[744.12 --> 748.28] I've seen the king of glory -[748.28 --> 752.46] Coming on the clouds -[752.46 --> 754.02] With fire -[754.02 --> 757.10] The whole earth shakes -[757.10 --> 760.78] The whole earth shakes -[760.78 --> 765.82] I see his love and mercy -[765.82 --> 771.64] Washing over all our sin -[771.64 --> 774.68] The people sing -[774.68 --> 778.52] The people sing -[778.52 --> 780.94] Hosanna -[780.94 --> 783.88] Hosanna -[783.88 --> 788.38] Hosanna in the highest -[788.38 --> 792.64] Hosanna -[792.64 --> 794.24] Hosanna -[794.24 --> 795.50] Hosanna -[796.64 --> 797.96] Good evening -[797.96 --> 799.14] Everyone -[799.14 --> 799.94] And -[799.94 --> 801.12] Thank you -[801.12 --> 802.30] For joining us -[802.30 --> 803.04] Here at -[803.04 --> 803.94] Langley -[803.94 --> 804.46] Emanuel -[804.46 --> 805.84] A special welcome -[805.84 --> 807.14] If you are -[807.14 --> 808.14] A guest here -[808.14 --> 810.08] If you are -[810.08 --> 810.66] Visiting -[810.66 --> 811.66] And representing -[811.66 --> 812.62] Someone -[812.62 --> 813.48] Or a group -[813.48 --> 814.76] We are really excited -[814.76 --> 815.44] That you are here -[815.44 --> 816.82] To participate -[816.82 --> 817.66] In this -[817.66 --> 818.60] The ordination -[818.60 --> 819.54] Of -[819.54 --> 820.30] Kevin Lobert -[820.30 --> 821.70] As a minister of the word -[821.70 --> 823.04] In the Christian reformed church -[823.62 --> 828.82] Later on in our service together, we'll have an opportunity to hear from special guests -[828.82 --> 830.66] and dignitaries on behalf of Kevin. -[830.94 --> 833.32] They will be introduced at that point. -[833.98 --> 840.92] I want to begin with a further invitation, and that's an invitation for after our service -[840.92 --> 845.74] this evening to hang out in fellowship in the back, and in here there'll be a bit of -[845.74 --> 850.08] a standing reception where you can all maul Kevin and encourage him with your love and -[850.08 --> 856.42] support and bless him as he continues to bless us here at Emmanuel. -[857.08 --> 869.52] We gather tonight for a significant and important purpose in the work of God in the world. -[870.20 --> 878.04] Today we rejoice in Christ's special care and love for his church since we together have -[878.04 --> 885.18] the privilege of ordaining Kevin to the ministry of the word in this church and in our denomination. -[885.98 --> 892.32] Because he has accepted the call of this church, we will now proceed with his ordination and -[892.32 --> 898.14] installation, and this act tonight is both worshipful and prayerful. -[898.14 --> 905.22] It is an act of joy, and it is a recognition of God's solemn purposes for the leadership of his church. -[905.64 --> 913.00] And for that, we give thanks to God, and in that, we know that God is here among us in the power of his spirit. -[913.80 --> 917.22] We mark that, of course, by receiving God's greeting. -[917.66 --> 923.18] And so as you're able, I'm going to invite you to stand, and maybe if it's in you to do so, -[923.18 --> 928.86] to take a posture of receipt, just open your hands, open your hearts, and receive God's welcome -[928.86 --> 931.68] into this evening and this worship together. -[933.38 --> 942.18] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, Son, and our Savior, -[942.84 --> 945.44] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[946.74 --> 947.04] Amen. -[947.04 --> 953.42] It's normal in our church, after the greeting is given, to turn and welcome those who are here this evening, -[953.50 --> 958.58] and so I'm going to invite you to do that as if it were Sunday, because we are in the presence of God and his people. -[958.58 --> 958.78] Amen. -[958.78 --> 959.22] Amen. -[959.22 --> 959.78] Amen. -[959.78 --> 960.22] Amen. -[960.22 --> 960.32] Amen. -[960.32 --> 960.72] Amen. -[960.72 --> 961.22] Amen. -[961.22 --> 961.86] Amen. -[961.86 --> 961.94] Amen. -[961.94 --> 962.00] Amen. -[962.00 --> 962.50] Amen. -[962.50 --> 963.00] Amen. -[963.00 --> 964.00] Amen. -[964.00 --> 964.08] Amen. -[964.08 --> 965.00] Amen. -[965.00 --> 965.08] Amen. -[965.08 --> 965.14] Amen. -[965.14 --> 965.18] Amen. -[965.18 --> 965.24] Amen. -[977.04 --> 995.18] Amen. -[995.18 --> 1005.32] In Psalm 145, the Lord invites us to see, great is the Lord and most worthy of praise. -[1005.32 --> 1008.20] His greatness no one can fathom. -[1009.20 --> 1014.92] And he invites us to hear, one generation commends your work to another. -[1015.66 --> 1018.08] They tell of your mighty acts. -[1018.90 --> 1024.54] And he invites us to sing, my mouth will speak in praise of the Lord. -[1025.22 --> 1029.16] Let every creature praise his holy name forever and ever. -[1029.16 --> 1029.22] Amen. -[1035.32 --> 1057.24] I will worship, I will worship, I will worship, with all of my heart, with all of my heart. -[1057.24 --> 1065.16] I will praise you, I will praise you, with all of my strength. -[1065.16 --> 1067.08] All of my strength. -[1067.08 --> 1075.04] I will seek you, I will seek you, all of my name. -[1075.04 --> 1077.38] All of my name. -[1077.48 --> 1084.24] I will follow, I will follow, all of your way. -[1084.24 --> 1087.66] All of your praise. -[1087.66 --> 1091.88] I will give you all my worship. -[1092.96 --> 1097.72] I will give you all my praise. -[1097.72 --> 1101.96] You alone, I long to worship. -[1103.08 --> 1107.44] You alone are worthy of my name. -[1107.44 --> 1109.94] I will bow down. -[1109.94 --> 1109.96] I will bow down. -[1109.96 --> 1112.02] I will bow down. -[1112.02 --> 1114.54] And hail you as king. -[1114.54 --> 1116.74] And hail you as king. -[1116.74 --> 1119.70] I will serve you. -[1119.70 --> 1121.56] I will serve you. -[1121.56 --> 1123.58] Give you everything. -[1124.58 --> 1126.88] Give you everything. -[1127.12 --> 1129.62] I will lift up. -[1129.62 --> 1131.78] I will lift up. -[1131.78 --> 1134.20] My eyes to your throne. -[1134.20 --> 1136.36] My eyes to your throne. -[1136.36 --> 1139.46] I will trust you. -[1139.46 --> 1141.62] I will trust you. -[1141.62 --> 1143.46] I will trust you alone. -[1144.26 --> 1147.20] Trust in you alone. -[1147.46 --> 1151.42] I will give you all my worship. -[1152.50 --> 1157.04] I will give you all my praise. -[1157.04 --> 1161.26] You alone, I long to worship. -[1161.26 --> 1166.72] You alone are worthy of mine. -[1166.72 --> 1171.10] I will give you all my worship. -[1172.10 --> 1176.56] I will give you all my praise. -[1176.56 --> 1180.88] You alone, I long to worship. -[1181.96 --> 1186.64] You alone are worthy of mine. -[1187.04 --> 1191.42] You alone, I long to worship. -[1192.72 --> 1196.58] You alone are worthy of His name. -[1197.26 --> 1200.50] Now of course there be enough guy. -[1200.50 --> 1201.56] The beauty of His kind umam. -[1201.56 --> 1205.20] Most of you and his life dev also of Him is all yours. -[1205.20 --> 1210.58] Stakes of your church doing great. -[1212.58 --> 1213.64] Your gift. -[1213.64 --> 1243.62] Thank you. -[1243.64 --> 1273.62] Thank you. -[1273.64 --> 1287.82] Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you, is what it says in Matthew 28. -[1287.82 --> 1317.82] -[1317.82 --> 1347.82] -[1347.82 --> 1349.28] He is a steward in the household of God. -[1349.62 --> 1352.28] He is a teacher to explain the mystery of the gospel. -[1352.84 --> 1354.86] He is a shepherd who cares for the flock. -[1355.32 --> 1360.54] He is an ambassador and a herald to his king, proclaiming the message of reconciliation. -[1361.56 --> 1364.22] The preaching of the word is one of the ministers' chief tasks. -[1364.82 --> 1372.14] Such proclamation must faithfully reflect the word of God and relate its needs of the listeners. -[1372.92 --> 1382.24] Paul stresses the demands when he wrote in 2 Timothy 4 to preach the word, be prepared in season and out of season, correct, rebuke, and encourage. -[1382.24 --> 1392.86] And because the sacraments are closely related to the preaching of the word, the minister has the privilege of administering holy baptism in the Lord's Supper. -[1393.34 --> 1399.02] Since the minister has the responsibility to preach the word and to administer the sacraments in public worship, -[1399.02 --> 1406.02] it is his task to conduct the worship service in such a manner that God receives glory in the congregations edified. -[1408.90 --> 1415.04] When Jesus said to Peter, feed my lambs, he entrusted the office bearers with special care for the young. -[1415.54 --> 1420.96] The minister must instruct the baptized members of the congregation in the way of salvation, -[1420.96 --> 1425.60] and he must also encourage and assist those who teach with him. -[1425.60 --> 1433.08] Kevin, as a pastor, the minister visits the members of the congregation. -[1433.78 --> 1435.42] He calls on the sick and suffering. -[1435.80 --> 1437.40] He comforts those who mourn. -[1437.88 --> 1440.08] He admonishes those who stray. -[1440.60 --> 1442.94] He counsels those in need of guidance. -[1443.54 --> 1448.26] He holds in trust those matters confided to him in counsel or confession. -[1448.92 --> 1451.00] And he encourages the weak. -[1451.00 --> 1456.00] He rejoices with those who rejoice and weeps with those who weep. -[1459.00 --> 1464.12] Yet the minister is called not only to serve those who already are members of the Church of Christ, -[1464.28 --> 1468.02] but also to engage in and to promote the work of evangelism. -[1468.44 --> 1472.70] As a true disciple of his master, he should show that the Church exists also for the world -[1472.70 --> 1477.14] and that the missionary task of the Church forms an essential part of its calling. -[1480.68 --> 1486.32] As a servant of Christ, the minister must help and encourage the people of God -[1486.32 --> 1494.64] as they care for the hungry, the thirsty, the strangers, the naked, the sick, and those in prison. -[1494.64 --> 1504.68] In all his work, the minister proclaims, explains, and applies Holy Scripture -[1504.68 --> 1510.48] in order to gather in and build up the members of the Church of Jesus Christ. -[1511.34 --> 1515.92] For this work, the minister devotes himself to the ministry of prayer, -[1516.70 --> 1523.02] joining all Christians in confession, intercession, thanksgiving, and praise. -[1524.64 --> 1554.62] For this work, the minister will be a part of the Church of Jesus Christ. -[1554.64 --> 1584.62] I am a part of the Church of Jesus Christ. -[1584.62 --> 1591.40] The wisdom will stand and you'll never do. -[1593.16 --> 1599.98] So I throw up my hands, praise you again and again. -[1599.98 --> 1610.98] Cause all that I have is a hallelujah, hallelujah. -[1610.98 --> 1618.02] I know it's not much, but nothing else did for me. -[1618.02 --> 1630.44] Except for our singing hallelujah, hallelujah. -[1630.44 --> 1636.44] I've got one response. -[1638.48 --> 1641.44] I've got just one move. -[1641.44 --> 1650.44] When my arms stretch wide, I will worship you. -[1651.58 --> 1657.44] So I throw up my hands, praise you again and again. -[1657.44 --> 1669.44] Cause all that I have is a hallelujah, hallelujah. -[1669.44 --> 1676.28] I know it's not much, but nothing else did for me. -[1676.84 --> 1686.44] Except for our singing hallelujah, hallelujah. -[1686.44 --> 1699.20] Come on, my soul. -[1699.48 --> 1703.82] Oh, don't you get shy on me, live another song. -[1703.82 --> 1708.52] Cause you've got a lion inside of those lungs. -[1709.02 --> 1712.42] Get up and praise the Lord. -[1712.42 --> 1717.46] Come on, my soul. -[1717.46 --> 1721.96] Oh, don't you get shy on me, live another song. -[1721.96 --> 1726.68] Cause you've got a lion inside of those lungs. -[1726.68 --> 1730.24] Get up and praise the Lord. -[1733.24 --> 1735.40] Come on, my soul. -[1735.76 --> 1739.96] Oh, don't you get shy on me, live another song. -[1739.96 --> 1744.58] Cause you've got a lion inside of those lungs. -[1744.58 --> 1748.34] Get up and praise the Lord. -[1748.34 --> 1750.60] Come on, Road찜, dost you, Jesus. -[1750.60 --> 1752.70] Yeah. -[1752.70 --> 1755.28] Come on, el de verse, we first came on message, -[1755.28 --> 1755.96] we recib a psst. -[1755.96 --> 1757.78] We facing terapevally, live another song. -[1757.78 --> 1759.06] Everyone was inspired by surrender of your life. -[1759.60 --> 1760.58] You've got a look, Lord, wife and Taxi, -[1760.58 --> 1761.40] the Lord. -[1761.40 --> 1773.28] Oh, don't you. -[1773.28 --> 1783.70] So I throw my hands, praise you again and again. -[1784.26 --> 1794.70] All that I have is a hallelujah, hallelujah. -[1796.22 --> 1801.66] And I know it's not much, but nothing else did for a king. -[1803.28 --> 1814.00] Except for a heart singing hallelujah, hallelujah. -[1814.00 --> 1816.00] Hallelujah. -[1816.00 --> 1816.64] Hallelujah. -[1816.64 --> 1817.20] Hallelujah. -[1817.20 --> 1817.76] Hallelujah. -[1817.76 --> 1818.40] Hallelujah. -[1830.58 --> 1834.20] My name is Dave Gruen and I serve as a pastor at Hope Community Church. -[1834.20 --> 1837.86] And I've known Kevin for a long time. -[1838.80 --> 1841.18] Almost, I don't know, 25 years now. -[1841.52 --> 1843.20] We studied at Redeemer with Chris. -[1843.54 --> 1846.08] All the good pastors moved from the east to the west, by the way. -[1846.94 --> 1849.72] And then we served in eight years in youth ministry. -[1849.80 --> 1851.30] And I thought I served for a long time. -[1851.38 --> 1855.20] And then Kevin just showed me up big time by serving for 17 years in youth ministry. -[1855.20 --> 1862.52] And it is a real privilege, Kev, to be part of your ordination and for me to have you share your ordination vows. -[1862.62 --> 1864.18] So at this time, I want to invite you up on the stage. -[1868.12 --> 1871.48] And I think all of us should be stunned at how well Kevin is dressed. -[1872.28 --> 1873.66] Am I allowed to name that? -[1875.42 --> 1876.00] It's true. -[1876.00 --> 1879.54] I figured I wasn't the only one who thought it. -[1881.48 --> 1884.38] One of the things that we learn in ministry is the importance of vows. -[1884.84 --> 1886.90] It's actually a very rare thing to witness them. -[1887.52 --> 1890.54] You will only really see them at weddings between husbands and wives. -[1890.74 --> 1894.00] And the other situation you'll see them is in churches with office bearers. -[1894.00 --> 1902.38] And today, we witness the significance of a vow that Kev is making to serving the Church of Jesus Christ faithfully with the gifts that God has given you. -[1902.38 --> 1909.00] And I've heard from pastors who've served for many years, one of whom is almost at 50 years in ministry, Martin Cantant, this month, -[1909.12 --> 1912.22] who have said that there's many seasons where you return to the vow. -[1913.18 --> 1915.00] Seasons where it's no longer easy to pastor. -[1915.80 --> 1920.64] And I hope that this vow holds weight to you and to your church in years ahead. -[1921.06 --> 1922.52] So Kev, I'm going to ask you four questions. -[1923.08 --> 1926.20] And after those four questions, I'm going to ask you to respond appropriately. -[1927.22 --> 1929.66] Yes, hopefully that answer is, I do, God helping me. -[1929.66 --> 1940.46] So first and foremost, Kev, do you believe that this call of a manual Christian reformed church is actually a call from God himself into the ministry in this congregation? -[1941.78 --> 1944.82] Secondly, do you believe that the Old and New Testament are the word of God? -[1945.60 --> 1949.30] They are the only infallible rule of faith and of life. -[1950.36 --> 1957.04] Third, do you ascribe to the doctrinal standards of this church, rejecting all the teaching which contradicts them? -[1957.04 --> 1964.48] And fourth, do you promise to be a faithful minister, to conduct yourself in a manner worthy of your calling, -[1964.84 --> 1968.86] and to submit to the government and the discipline of the church? -[1969.84 --> 1971.26] Kevin Loebert, what is your answer? -[1972.06 --> 1973.10] I do, with God's help. -[1973.90 --> 1974.16] Amen. -[1975.38 --> 1979.60] At this time, I think I'm going to invite the officiating pastor to lead us in a time of prayer. -[1979.66 --> 1980.40] Do you want me to do that? -[1980.98 --> 1982.00] You want me to do that? -[1983.54 --> 1984.46] That's perfect. -[1984.46 --> 1991.86] At this time, I'm going to invite the elders and the deacons, as well as pastors who are locally here to pray for Kev. -[1991.90 --> 1992.30] Come on up. -[1992.32 --> 1993.20] We're going to lay hands on him. -[1993.56 --> 1994.42] I'm going to pray for him. -[1998.82 --> 1999.26] Absolutely. -[1999.82 --> 2001.18] Family is more than welcome. -[2001.18 --> 2015.86] I'm going to allow people to pray, and I'm going to call on... -[2015.86 --> 2018.38] I'm looking for Justin Roekema to lead this prayer. -[2018.44 --> 2021.50] You can just pass the mic around, and Justin, you're going to start this prayer. -[2022.62 --> 2024.36] You want me to start and then others... -[2024.36 --> 2026.12] Pass it around and I'll close the prayer. -[2026.12 --> 2027.16] Okay. -[2027.34 --> 2027.98] Thanks, Dave. -[2031.70 --> 2032.42] Let's pray. -[2035.02 --> 2037.64] Almighty God, we're so thankful to you for Kevin. -[2037.82 --> 2039.86] We're so thankful for the gifts that you've given him. -[2040.62 --> 2043.26] For all the ways that you've blessed him through years of ministry. -[2043.62 --> 2049.34] For the blessing that he's been on this church, but also fellow pastors. -[2049.52 --> 2051.28] The gift he's been to fellow pastors as well. -[2051.28 --> 2061.16] We're thankful for this day to think about the way in which you've poured your spirit out on him. -[2061.54 --> 2065.62] And we're thankful for that gift in Kevin's life and ministry. -[2065.72 --> 2068.56] And we pray that you continue to bless him in that way. -[2072.06 --> 2076.00] Living God, we thank you for the gift that Kevin has been to so many who are in this space. -[2076.28 --> 2077.36] And so many who aren't here. -[2077.74 --> 2079.86] Lord, the impact that you have had through him. -[2079.86 --> 2085.16] And we pray, Lord, now that as he enters into a new chapter of ministry, -[2085.66 --> 2092.00] walking in step with you and seeking to walk on his knees, to walk in prayer with you, -[2092.56 --> 2097.54] to step forward into what your will is for him in this role here at Emmanuel. -[2098.02 --> 2101.58] Lord, we ask that your spirit would go with him in powerful and in mighty ways, -[2101.72 --> 2105.92] that he may know that your spirit is his constant companion -[2105.92 --> 2109.80] and that you have led him here for such a time as this. -[2122.80 --> 2129.32] Heavenly Father, even as our hands settle on Kevin's shoulders, -[2129.32 --> 2135.76] may the mantle of service to your church settle there on him as well. -[2137.12 --> 2146.26] May the authority that comes with this ordination be one that he wears well and with integrity, -[2146.62 --> 2149.10] with purpose and devotion. -[2149.10 --> 2160.02] And Jesus, just as you have invited us all to take your yoke upon our shoulders, -[2160.68 --> 2163.68] may Kevin take this responsibility on his, -[2164.12 --> 2168.04] knowing that he is taking on your calling and your equipping. -[2168.04 --> 2173.26] clothe him so completely with yourself, Lord Christ, -[2173.34 --> 2178.56] that whenever anyone sees him or hears him, they see and hear you. -[2178.56 --> 2189.76] God, right now, I want to bring Nikki to you as well. -[2190.16 --> 2194.70] God, I thank you for her and I thank you for the support that she has been to Kev through his entire ministry. -[2195.36 --> 2201.32] I pray that you give her what she stands in need of as they enter this new role together as a couple and as a family. -[2201.32 --> 2201.44] Amen. -[2208.56 --> 2212.96] Father, we praise you that before Kevin was even born, your hand was on his life. -[2214.14 --> 2218.38] You knew every day that he would walk and you knew, Lord, that he would serve in this role. -[2218.46 --> 2221.64] And we praise you that you will equip him to be faithful in this role. -[2222.46 --> 2229.20] We thank you for the gifts he has, for his humility, his shepherd's heart, his love for your church, -[2229.60 --> 2231.98] his laughter, his joy in ministry. -[2232.76 --> 2234.14] Lord, would you protect these gifts? -[2234.88 --> 2236.18] Would you use these gifts? -[2236.18 --> 2240.00] Would you give him spiritual authority to lead as a servant of Jesus? -[2240.44 --> 2244.48] And we do pray that the season ahead in this church, in this congregation, -[2244.48 --> 2248.06] would be filled with kingdom fruit, would be filled with joy, -[2248.50 --> 2250.62] where Kevin would see you leading him. -[2251.20 --> 2255.28] And I pray that you give him the confidence to know that there is no place he walks in ministry. -[2255.88 --> 2261.14] There is no situation he enters into where you do not walk with him as the Lord of the church. -[2261.40 --> 2262.84] And it is your name we pray. -[2263.22 --> 2263.50] Amen. -[2263.50 --> 2263.60] Amen. -[2265.00 --> 2265.44] Amen. -[2266.18 --> 2268.18] Amen. -[2284.38 --> 2286.12] Chris, who's leading the vows of the congregation? -[2287.70 --> 2288.02] What? -[2288.74 --> 2291.28] When it says officiating minister, that's you. -[2291.28 --> 2291.38] Amen. -[2291.38 --> 2296.84] Yeah, come on up. -[2296.92 --> 2297.48] Come on up, Kev. -[2299.32 --> 2300.02] Hi, everyone. -[2300.10 --> 2301.14] My name is Jenna Fabiano. -[2301.68 --> 2303.28] I'm a pastor over at Willoughby Church. -[2303.72 --> 2307.44] And I've had the joy of knowing Kevin for the last seven years, I think. -[2307.78 --> 2312.64] Ever since a mutual friend of ours gathered a few of us pastors to regularly have lunch together, -[2313.14 --> 2319.14] it's been a joy to get to know Kevin, to learn from you and your many, many, many years of ministry. -[2319.14 --> 2327.90] But more importantly, to see how the spirit of Jesus Christ is so clearly at work in you. -[2328.10 --> 2329.30] So it's a real privilege to be here. -[2329.58 --> 2329.96] Thank you. -[2331.24 --> 2334.60] Members of the congregation, I'm going to invite you to stand right now. -[2335.06 --> 2337.22] You are going to make a vow to Kevin. -[2337.22 --> 2343.64] And I will invite you to respond at the end with what we do with God's help. -[2343.64 --> 2353.12] Church family of Langley Emmanuel, do you, in the name of the Lord, welcome Kevin as your minister and pastor? -[2354.00 --> 2358.18] Do you promise to take to heart the word of God as he proclaims it? -[2358.84 --> 2363.26] Do you promise to pray for him, to share with him in the work of his ministry, -[2363.78 --> 2366.40] to encourage him in the exercise of his tasks, -[2366.40 --> 2371.58] and to respond to his work with obedience, love, and respect? -[2372.26 --> 2373.76] Church family, what is your answer? -[2374.46 --> 2377.66] Thank goodness. -[2378.02 --> 2379.50] All right, you can have a seat. -[2380.72 --> 2381.58] No, no. -[2381.58 --> 2389.86] I now have the wonderful privilege of being able to offer a commission and a congratulations to both you and to your church family. -[2389.86 --> 2394.62] Kevin, dear brother and fellow servant of Christ, -[2395.30 --> 2399.50] we rejoice with you on this day that after years of preparation, -[2400.20 --> 2403.10] you have been ordained to the ministry of the word. -[2404.22 --> 2407.86] May you experience much joy in fulfilling your calling. -[2408.86 --> 2412.12] As you exercise the authority of the office entrusted to you, -[2412.46 --> 2414.64] may you always remain a humble servant. -[2414.64 --> 2418.28] Look faithfully after the whole flock, -[2418.84 --> 2420.26] the old and the young, -[2420.88 --> 2423.00] the faithful and the unfaithful, -[2423.48 --> 2424.84] the healthy and the sick, -[2425.42 --> 2426.64] the strong and the weak. -[2427.88 --> 2429.36] Rejoice with those who rejoice, -[2429.66 --> 2431.02] and suffer with those who suffer. -[2432.32 --> 2435.58] Use all your talents to the utmost of your ability, -[2435.96 --> 2438.64] and do not neglect any of your gifts. -[2439.64 --> 2443.06] And one day, our chief shepherd will give you the crown of glory, -[2443.06 --> 2445.54] saying, well done, good and faithful servant. -[2446.86 --> 2448.96] And to you, dear fellow Christians, -[2449.30 --> 2450.58] congratulations also. -[2451.34 --> 2453.56] This is truly the day which the Lord has made. -[2454.04 --> 2455.72] Let us rejoice and be glad in it. -[2457.20 --> 2459.64] Congregation, keep your vows. -[2460.90 --> 2463.44] Receive your minister as a gift of God. -[2464.64 --> 2467.34] Listen to him with all the respect due his office. -[2468.30 --> 2469.96] Encourage him when he needs strength, -[2469.96 --> 2472.18] and pray for him daily. -[2473.50 --> 2476.04] Anyone who receives a prophet because he is a prophet -[2476.04 --> 2477.80] will receive a prophet's reward. -[2478.98 --> 2481.90] May you, as pastor and congregation, -[2482.74 --> 2486.00] live as the bride longing for the coming of our heavenly bridegroom, -[2486.54 --> 2488.92] praying, come, Lord Jesus, come. -[2490.06 --> 2490.38] Amen. -[2491.54 --> 2492.72] Let's continue in worship. -[2492.72 --> 2492.90] Amen. -[2492.90 --> 2492.92] Let's continue in worship. -[2492.92 --> 2492.96] Amen. -[2499.96 --> 2509.12] Amen. -[2523.50 --> 2524.06] Amen. -[2524.06 --> 2524.48] Amen. -[2524.48 --> 2524.80] Amen. -[2524.82 --> 2524.98] Amen. -[2524.98 --> 2527.98] Amen. -[2541.42 --> 2546.10] All of the creation, all of the earth, -[2546.10 --> 2550.64] Make straight highway, path for the Lord. -[2550.64 --> 2556.98] Jesus is coming soon. -[2558.54 --> 2563.36] All that sinner, wake up the saint, -[2563.82 --> 2567.86] Then every nation shall help the faith. -[2568.94 --> 2573.36] Jesus is coming soon. -[2573.36 --> 2581.74] Like a ride waiting for her room, -[2582.04 --> 2587.20] We'll be a church ready for you every heart. -[2587.62 --> 2592.64] Longing for our King, we sing. -[2592.64 --> 2599.32] Even so, run for Jesus, come. -[2600.82 --> 2607.98] Even so, run for Jesus, come. -[2610.36 --> 2615.02] There will be justice, all will be you. -[2615.02 --> 2619.58] Your name forever, faithful and true. -[2620.90 --> 2625.44] Jesus is coming soon. -[2628.24 --> 2633.84] Like a ride waiting for her room, -[2634.24 --> 2639.30] We'll be a church ready for you every heart. -[2639.30 --> 2644.80] Longing for our King, we sing. -[2645.18 --> 2647.48] Even so, come. -[2647.98 --> 2651.72] For Jesus, come. -[2653.56 --> 2656.04] Even so, come. -[2656.56 --> 2660.26] For Jesus, come. -[2660.26 --> 2685.86] So we wait, we wait for you. -[2685.86 --> 2691.26] God, we wait for you. -[2691.26 --> 2693.42] God, we wait for you. -[2693.42 --> 2695.54] You're coming soon. -[2695.54 --> 2704.42] So we wait, we wait for you. -[2704.42 --> 2709.42] God, we wait for you. -[2709.42 --> 2713.42] You're coming soon. -[2713.42 --> 2743.40] So we wait, we wait for you. -[2743.40 --> 2750.40] You're coming soon. -[2750.40 --> 2755.82] Like a ride waiting for her room, -[2755.82 --> 2761.18] We'll be a church ready for you every heart. -[2761.18 --> 2766.48] Longing for our King, we sing. -[2767.68 --> 2772.66] Like a ride waiting for her room, -[2772.66 --> 2774.66] We'll be a church ready for you every heart. -[2774.66 --> 2777.66] We'll be a church ready for you every heart. -[2777.66 --> 2782.66] Longing for our King, we sing. -[2782.66 --> 2784.66] Even so, come. -[2784.66 --> 2788.44] Even so, come. -[2788.44 --> 2790.62] Even so, come. -[2790.66 --> 2794.14] For Jesus, come. -[2794.14 --> 2795.50] Even so, come. -[2795.50 --> 2799.54] Lord Jesus, come. -[2801.68 --> 2804.34] Be this hope, come. -[2804.34 --> 2808.94] Lord Jesus, come. -[2825.50 --> 2830.84] Good evening. -[2830.84 --> 2833.40] Congratulations, Kevin. -[2833.40 --> 2841.54] As clerk of council, it's my pleasure to introduce our guests for, -[2841.54 --> 2845.86] they're going to be saying a few words this evening. -[2845.86 --> 2849.66] But first, I do also have a letter from Eric Woodward, -[2849.66 --> 2851.26] the mayor of the township of Langley. -[2851.26 --> 2853.40] I'll just read that out loud here for everyone. -[2853.40 --> 2857.50] Dear members of Langley Christian Reformed Church, -[2857.50 --> 2861.54] on behalf of township council and the residents of Langley, -[2861.54 --> 2865.94] it's my honor to extend heartfelt congratulations on the ordination of Mr. -[2865.94 --> 2869.04] Kevin Lobert to the office of Minister of the Word -[2869.04 --> 2871.88] in the Christian Reformed Church in North America. -[2872.56 --> 2877.06] The township of Langley deeply values the presence and contributions -[2877.06 --> 2881.12] of faith communities such as Langley Emanuel Christian Reformed Church, -[2881.12 --> 2884.76] your ongoing commitments to spiritual guidance, social support, -[2884.76 --> 2888.16] and community well-being enriches the lives of many across our community, -[2888.16 --> 2889.26] our municipality. -[2889.26 --> 2893.66] Please accept our sincere congratulations and best wishes -[2893.66 --> 2896.06] as you celebrate this joyful occasion. -[2896.06 --> 2897.98] Sincerely, Eric Woodward. -[2897.98 --> 2908.02] Our first guest here is Joe Ladum, consistency, -[2908.02 --> 2914.22] my words are not coming out right here, assistant for MLA, Harmon Mungu. -[2914.22 --> 2922.76] Good evening, everyone. -[2922.76 --> 2927.86] Good evening, everybody. -[2927.86 --> 2931.68] My name is Joe Ladum, and I'm MLA Harmon Mungu's constituency assistant. -[2931.68 --> 2934.14] Unfortunately, MLA Mungu is in Victoria, -[2934.14 --> 2936.38] but he asked me to say a few words on his behalf. -[2936.38 --> 2939.34] Today we gather to celebrate a truly special moment, -[2939.34 --> 2940.88] the ordination of Kevin Lobert. -[2940.88 --> 2943.52] Kevin, this is not just a milestone in your life, -[2943.52 --> 2946.32] but a powerful testimony of your faith, your calling, -[2946.32 --> 2948.12] and your dedication to serving others. -[2948.12 --> 2951.32] Throughout your journey, you've shown humility, compassion, -[2951.32 --> 2953.52] and a steadfast commitment to God's word. -[2953.52 --> 2956.32] You've inspired those around you with your integrity, -[2956.32 --> 2958.84] your kindness, and your willingness to lead by example. -[2958.84 --> 2961.44] As you step into this new chapter of ministry, -[2961.44 --> 2964.60] may you continue to be a vessel of grace, a voice of hope, -[2964.60 --> 2966.40] and a shepherd to all who seek guidance. -[2966.40 --> 2970.04] Through your leadership, many lives will be touched and hearts renewed. -[2970.04 --> 2970.88] Congratulations. -[2970.88 --> 2971.88] Thank you. -[2971.88 --> 2972.88] Thank you. -[2972.88 --> 2985.52] Next, I'll call for Reverend Wout Brower on behalf of MP Teiko Venpapta. -[2985.52 --> 2996.88] Kevin, it's my honour to be here tonight on behalf of our member of parliament, Teiko Venpapta. -[2996.88 --> 3003.88] Parliament is in session, so he's in Ottawa, and he asked me to be here representing him. -[3003.88 --> 3011.52] And so on behalf of Mr. Venpapta and the government of Canada, I want to wish you congratulations -[3011.52 --> 3015.16] and thank you for your support and God's rich blessings on your ministry. -[3015.16 --> 3019.52] I have a memento here for you to mark the occasion. -[3019.52 --> 3020.52] And I want you to stay there. -[3020.52 --> 3026.16] I would like to congratulate you. -[3026.16 --> 3032.16] But also, as a fellow minister of the word, I want to pass on my personal congratulations, -[3032.16 --> 3040.80] and I pray that in the words of Jesus, you might bear much fruit with great joy as you serve Christ in his church and his kingdom, -[3040.80 --> 3045.80] and that God's richest blessing would rest upon not only you but your family. -[3045.80 --> 3047.80] Congratulations. -[3047.80 --> 3048.80] Thank you. -[3048.80 --> 3049.80] Thank you. -[3049.80 --> 3054.80] Thank you. -[3054.80 --> 3064.80] Next up, we have a Reverend Stephen Birkenpass of Living Hope CRC on behalf of classes BC Southeast. -[3064.80 --> 3065.80] All right. -[3065.80 --> 3083.80] Well, my name is Stephen Birkenpass, as he mentioned, and for those of you at Emanuel, I'm the youngest of Pete and Doreen. -[3083.80 --> 3091.80] And this means they've been here a long time, and I've grown up here just looking at these fans. -[3091.80 --> 3097.80] I have lots of memories staring at those fans as the pastors talked about stuff. -[3097.80 --> 3110.80] But this also is a place where I got to learn about who God is and how God calls us into ministry where my imagination got to grow. -[3110.80 --> 3114.80] And a big part of that was through the ministers that served here. -[3114.80 --> 3124.80] And as they depended on Christ to guide, now there's this new opportunity for you to step into that in a new way. -[3124.80 --> 3140.80] So on behalf of BC Southeast and classes, I just want to give a note of our excitement to see how you are going to kind of step into that same legacy of pastors that have gone before you. -[3140.80 --> 3148.80] And showing Christ that people can grow in who they are, that they can see God working in their lives in new ways. -[3148.80 --> 3161.80] And also that as you step into this, that you're going to have new ways in which you can lean into your faith and where Christ can sustain you and where you can see Christ going ahead of you. -[3161.80 --> 3162.80] So blessings. -[3162.80 --> 3163.80] Thank you. -[3163.80 --> 3165.80] Thank you. -[3165.80 --> 3176.80] And our last guest here is Reverend Gord Schultz, Mountain View Alliance on behalf of Langley Aerial Ministerial. -[3176.80 --> 3177.80] Thank you. -[3177.80 --> 3178.80] Thank you. -[3178.80 --> 3179.80] Thank you. -[3179.80 --> 3180.80] Thank you. -[3180.80 --> 3181.80] Thank you. -[3181.80 --> 3187.80] Such a joy to be here with you whenever the guy, the pastor comes up with a folder and paper. -[3187.80 --> 3189.80] It's never a good sign, but don't worry. -[3189.80 --> 3190.80] It's one page. -[3190.80 --> 3191.80] It's not even a full page. -[3191.80 --> 3200.80] I have known Kevin now for about 30 minutes actually. -[3200.80 --> 3203.80] So this is, it's been a pleasure. -[3203.80 --> 3210.80] I actually did, I think we did meet at TWU so we have a similar heart of love for the students. -[3210.80 --> 3217.92] I'm Pastor Gord and I am from Mountain View and I am representing the Langley Ministerial -[3217.92 --> 3225.18] and this is a group that meets once a month and we we just gather in prayer we pray for one another -[3225.18 --> 3232.32] and we pray for our city and I just want to offer an encouragement to you Kevin twofold -[3232.32 --> 3239.86] as I've thought about this moment I'm thrilled simply that there is another pastor being ordained -[3239.86 --> 3248.64] because we need more pastors in Canada as many of you probably know there is a growing shortage -[3248.64 --> 3256.90] actually of pastors right now they say statistically Canada will need 325 new pastors for every year -[3256.90 --> 3264.28] for the next 12 years just to replace those who are retiring right now so I just want to personally -[3264.28 --> 3268.72] and on behalf of the ministerial bless you in this step of faith and following God's calling in your -[3268.72 --> 3277.42] life but then the other second encouragement is that you Kevin are stepping into this precious -[3277.42 --> 3282.92] and glorious role of being a minister of God's Word and though I'm from a different denomination -[3282.92 --> 3290.38] I as we began the service my heart was already just linked to everyone here because I could sense your -[3290.38 --> 3297.20] passion for the Word your love of worship and the joy of the ministry of the Holy Spirit that's just -[3297.20 --> 3304.76] common spiritual DNA that we share it's a it's a gift friends in a day of ideological confusion -[3304.76 --> 3311.50] progressivism and relativism we need now more than ever men who are proclaim biblical truth with -[3311.50 --> 3318.44] conviction and boldness flowing out of a heart of love for Christ as 2nd Timothy 4 1 and 2 says in the -[3318.44 --> 3324.86] presence of God and of Christ Jesus I give you this charge preach the word be prepared in season -[3324.86 --> 3331.44] and out of season correct encourage rebuke with great patience and careful instructions be encouraged -[3331.44 --> 3334.06] and be blessed today as you enter into ordination -[3334.06 --> 3338.14] thank you -[3338.14 --> 3358.52] please join us as we sing the song ancient of days -[3358.52 --> 3367.64] yeah -[3367.64 --> 3377.42] yeah -[3377.42 --> 3379.86] yeah -[3379.86 --> 3381.84] yeah -[3381.84 --> 3397.02] He builds rise and fall. There is still one King reigning over all. -[3397.02 --> 3414.02] So I will not fear, for this truth remains, that my God is the Ancient of Days. -[3414.02 --> 3432.02] None above Him, none before Him, all the time in His hands, for His throne it shall remain and ever stand. -[3432.02 --> 3450.02] All the power, all the glory, I will trust in His name, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[3450.02 --> 3472.02] O the dread of night overwhelms my soul. He is here with me, I am not alone. -[3472.02 --> 3490.02] O His love is sure, and He knows my name, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[3490.02 --> 3507.02] None above Him, none before Him, all the time in His hands, for His throne it shall remain and ever stand. -[3507.02 --> 3524.02] All the power, all the glory, I will trust in His name, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[3524.02 --> 3541.02] All the glory, all the glory, I will trust in His name, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[3541.02 --> 3549.02] Noah燈 -[3549.02 --> 3550.02] ji -[3550.02 --> 3552.02] O hoes -[3552.02 --> 3561.70] You may not see What the future brings -[3562.02 --> 3566.00] I will watch and wait, -[3566.00 --> 3574.04] For the Savior King, and my joy come free, -[3574.04 --> 3586.72] standing face to face in the presence of the Ancient of Kings. -[3587.34 --> 3595.04] None above Him, none before Him, all of time in His hands. -[3596.00 --> 3603.40] For His rodents shall remain and ever stand. -[3604.12 --> 3612.90] All the power, all the glory, I will trust in His name. -[3613.46 --> 3619.44] For my God is the Ancient of Days. -[3619.44 --> 3628.84] For my God is the Ancient of Days. -[3628.84 --> 3635.84] For my God is the Ancient of Days. -[3635.84 --> 3643.24] For my God is the Ancient of Days. -[3643.24 --> 3645.24] For my God is the Ancient of Days. -[3645.24 --> 3649.24] For my God is the Ancient of Days. -[3649.24 --> 3653.64] Good evening. -[3653.64 --> 3654.64] I'm Peter Van Heusen. -[3654.64 --> 3656.64] I'm a member of this church. -[3656.64 --> 3659.64] I've been here since 1995. -[3659.64 --> 3665.04] And I remember 17 years ago, Kevin showed up here. -[3665.04 --> 3670.04] He was just out of Redeemer, fresh out. -[3670.04 --> 3674.04] And I remember looking him in the eye and I'm saying, -[3674.04 --> 3676.04] you know what the stats are on people like you? -[3676.04 --> 3679.04] They last... -[3679.04 --> 3686.04] In our denomination, there was an article that wrote about how long youth pastors generally -[3686.04 --> 3687.44] survived in a church. -[3687.44 --> 3688.44] And it was three years. -[3688.44 --> 3693.44] And I said, Kevin, you need to know that the stats are three years. -[3693.44 --> 3697.44] And you said, you had this innocent look about you. -[3697.44 --> 3701.64] And you said, yeah, I'll take it on even if it's three years. -[3701.64 --> 3703.64] I think something to that effect. -[3703.64 --> 3707.64] But look at here, 17 years later, and look what's happened. -[3707.64 --> 3711.64] And Nikki, you know, you've been a big support to Kevin. -[3711.64 --> 3713.44] And I know that in... -[3713.44 --> 3714.44] When... -[3714.44 --> 3718.84] For pastors, Jackie's dad was a pastor. -[3718.84 --> 3722.74] So I know a little bit about what happens to pastor's families. -[3722.74 --> 3728.34] And it can be an awesome job, but they're also difficult times. -[3728.34 --> 3735.64] And I know it's very important that you have the support of Nikki and your three girls. -[3735.64 --> 3739.54] I notice already at Sunday school, they're already active. -[3739.54 --> 3740.84] It's awesome. -[3740.84 --> 3743.04] But we give God the praise for you, Kevin. -[3743.04 --> 3745.44] You know you're loved in this congregation. -[3745.44 --> 3748.64] And yeah, we entrust you to God's care. -[3748.64 --> 3752.64] And I'm going to leave the congregation in prayer. -[3752.64 --> 3757.24] Thank you, Lord, on this day for your many blessings. -[3757.24 --> 3759.54] Thank you for your church. -[3759.54 --> 3765.54] Elect from every nation, yet one or all the earth. -[3765.54 --> 3772.14] Thank you for giving your church the task of calling others to your saving grace in Jesus Christ. -[3772.14 --> 3775.74] And to the fellowship of the covenant community. -[3775.74 --> 3782.64] Today, we thank you in particular for giving the church the special office of the minister of the word. -[3782.64 --> 3788.64] We rejoice that we as a congregation have received this new pastor to work among us. -[3788.64 --> 3794.54] We pray that you will bless him as a servant of Christ and the church. -[3794.54 --> 3799.54] Help him to be an inspired ambassador for his king. -[3799.54 --> 3804.54] Bringing the message of salvation and reconciliation to us all. -[3804.54 --> 3814.44] Bless him as a pastor and a counselor. -[3814.44 --> 3819.44] May he prove himself a faithful steward in the household of God. -[3819.44 --> 3826.44] Enable us as a congregation to listen gladly and attentively to him. -[3826.44 --> 3831.34] Recognizing in his words the voice of the good shepherd. -[3831.34 --> 3840.84] Strengthen us all in the work of the ministry so that we may be the salt of the earth and the light of the world. -[3840.84 --> 3849.44] Help us, congregation and pastor, to endure the heat of the day and the darkness of the night. -[3849.44 --> 3853.34] Sustain by your healing and guiding presence. -[3853.34 --> 3857.84] As we come again to your word, open our ears to hear you. -[3857.84 --> 3860.14] Open our minds to understand you. -[3860.14 --> 3864.14] And open our lives to live for the glory of your name. -[3864.14 --> 3868.14] All this we ask with thankful hearts. -[3868.14 --> 3872.14] In the name of your dear son, our Lord and Savior. -[3872.14 --> 3873.14] Amen. -[3879.44 --> 3902.94] Sometimes, in moments like these, it's important to pause and reflect and remember. -[3902.94 --> 3911.14] Because what we have just participated in together, and especially in the laying on of hands, -[3911.14 --> 3919.46] the Church of Jesus Christ has done for 2,000 years to men and women called to serve in Jesus' name. -[3919.46 --> 3930.28] The authority of God himself, of the calling and equipping of Jesus Christ, is passed in the laying on of hands. -[3930.28 --> 3938.48] The authority of Jesus Christ is acknowledged in the elders of the Church surrounding the one who is called and placing their hands. -[3938.48 --> 3953.48] Kevin, tonight, the calling of God in you has been confirmed and the work of God through you has been passed. -[3953.48 --> 3964.08] In a long line of church history, from the apostles to the first generation of leaders and the second and the third, -[3964.08 --> 3967.18] and however many it's been since then, you do the math. -[3968.48 --> 3969.92] But God is still working. -[3970.98 --> 3972.02] God is still active. -[3972.02 --> 3973.76] God is still faithful to his church. -[3973.76 --> 3977.26] And this is a mark of God's faithfulness. -[3978.76 --> 3981.50] I remember my ordination. -[3981.50 --> 3983.96] I remember that moment. -[3983.96 --> 3986.30] I remember the sermon that was preached. -[3986.30 --> 3991.06] I recall it almost weekly as I do this work. -[3992.84 --> 3997.98] And so, much of what I say, Kevin, is going to be just for you. -[3998.76 --> 4004.38] The other ministers of the Word here will resonate with a bunch of it, I am sure. -[4005.16 --> 4007.88] The rest of you, I guess, like Steve said, can watch the fans. -[4007.88 --> 4012.34] No, I'll turn to you as well. -[4016.34 --> 4028.46] But we know that the authority of Jesus comes to those he calls first and foremost in the working of the Spirit and the application of the Word. -[4029.54 --> 4033.88] And so we ground ourselves in God's Word tonight and in this moment. -[4033.88 --> 4042.60] And to do that, I want to read with you a story from 1 Kings 22. -[4043.90 --> 4047.50] A story about a prophet and a king. -[4047.94 --> 4051.40] And so if you have a Bible, I encourage you, you can open it up, you can read along. -[4051.68 --> 4055.74] It will be on the screen the first time through, but you may want to keep it in front of you. -[4056.46 --> 4058.80] But here, for us, the Word of the Lord. -[4058.80 --> 4065.64] For three years, there was no war between Aram and Israel. -[4066.66 --> 4075.50] But in the third year of Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, went down to see the king of Israel. -[4076.40 --> 4078.62] The king of Israel had said to his officials, -[4079.48 --> 4087.22] Don't you know that Ramoth-Gilead belongs to us, and yet we are doing nothing to retake it from the king of Aram? -[4087.22 --> 4090.58] So he asked Jehoshaphat, -[4091.18 --> 4094.54] Will you go with me to fight against Ramoth-Gilead? -[4096.16 --> 4098.58] Jehoshaphat replied to the king of Israel, -[4099.14 --> 4104.24] I am as you are, my people as your people, my horses as your horses. -[4105.32 --> 4107.44] But Jehoshaphat said to the king of Israel, -[4107.86 --> 4111.06] First, seek the counsel of the Lord. -[4111.06 --> 4118.44] So the king of Israel brought together the prophets, about 400 men. -[4119.56 --> 4120.32] And he asked them, -[4120.66 --> 4124.72] Shall I go to war against Ramoth-Gilead, or shall I refrain? -[4125.78 --> 4130.56] Go, they answered, for the Lord will give it into the king's hands. -[4132.20 --> 4133.48] But Jehoshaphat asked, -[4134.06 --> 4138.66] Is there no longer a prophet of the Lord here whom we can inquire of? -[4138.66 --> 4142.42] The king of Israel answered Jehoshaphat, -[4142.94 --> 4148.30] There is still one prophet through whom we can inquire of the Lord, -[4148.74 --> 4153.76] but I hate him, because he never prophesies anything good about me, and always bad. -[4156.12 --> 4158.64] He is Micaiah, son of Imlah. -[4160.34 --> 4163.44] Well, the king should not say such a thing, Jehoshaphat replied. -[4163.44 --> 4169.08] So the king of Israel called one of his officials and said, -[4169.46 --> 4171.56] Bring Micaiah, son of Imlah, at once. -[4173.74 --> 4175.88] Dressed in their royal robes, -[4176.40 --> 4179.12] the king of Israel and Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, -[4179.46 --> 4182.00] were sitting on their thrones at the threshing floor -[4182.00 --> 4184.26] by the entrance of the gate of Samaria, -[4184.74 --> 4187.52] with all the prophets prophesying before them. -[4187.52 --> 4192.78] Now Zedekiah, son of Canaanite, had made iron horns, -[4192.94 --> 4194.00] and he declared, -[4194.40 --> 4195.90] This is what the Lord says, -[4196.02 --> 4200.82] With these you will gore the Arameans until they are destroyed. -[4201.70 --> 4204.88] All the other prophets were prophesying the same thing. -[4205.20 --> 4208.42] Attack Ramoth-Gilead and be victorious, they said, -[4208.56 --> 4211.14] for the Lord will give it into the king's hand. -[4211.14 --> 4216.36] The messenger, who had gone to summon Micaiah, said to him, -[4216.98 --> 4219.98] Look, the other prophets, without exception, -[4220.22 --> 4221.98] are predicting success for the king. -[4222.76 --> 4226.54] Let your word agree with theirs and speak favorably. -[4228.42 --> 4229.92] But Micaiah said, -[4230.92 --> 4233.02] As surely as the Lord lives, -[4234.18 --> 4239.58] I can tell him only what the Lord tells me. -[4241.14 --> 4242.10] This is the word of the Lord. -[4246.44 --> 4253.02] Now we live in an age of endless words. -[4254.56 --> 4256.90] And if you are a regular worshiper here, -[4257.04 --> 4258.22] you know that that's true. -[4260.16 --> 4262.98] Everyone is saying something. -[4264.72 --> 4268.54] Scroll long enough and you'll find a sermon for every desire. -[4268.74 --> 4270.62] You'll find a gospel for every appetite. -[4271.14 --> 4275.46] Some promise meaning through achievement, -[4275.76 --> 4278.22] others through self-discovery or belonging. -[4278.64 --> 4281.08] And in the midst of all of that noise, -[4281.62 --> 4285.04] it becomes really hard to tell the difference -[4285.04 --> 4287.58] between the truth and opinion. -[4288.44 --> 4290.04] Between the word of God -[4290.04 --> 4293.52] and the cacophony of this present moment. -[4293.52 --> 4296.44] Now to be sure, -[4297.46 --> 4300.34] the danger is not that God has stopped speaking, -[4301.04 --> 4305.16] but that we have stopped wanting to hear him. -[4306.94 --> 4308.12] Now this isn't new. -[4308.26 --> 4309.28] In every generation, -[4309.64 --> 4311.58] the people of God face the same temptation -[4311.58 --> 4315.14] to prefer pleasant words over true ones, -[4315.30 --> 4318.34] to gather prophets who say what we already believe. -[4318.34 --> 4321.86] A great threat to the church has never been silence, -[4322.50 --> 4323.48] but flattery. -[4324.80 --> 4328.64] When prophets learn to say what the king wants to hear, -[4329.00 --> 4332.78] when preachers learn to soothe rather than to speak, -[4333.16 --> 4335.98] when congregations learn to crave comfort -[4335.98 --> 4337.98] instead of craving the truth. -[4337.98 --> 4342.12] But the word of God still lives. -[4343.00 --> 4344.82] And the word of God, active as it is, -[4345.06 --> 4350.02] still calls his servants to say only what he says -[4350.02 --> 4353.00] and his people to love nothing less -[4353.00 --> 4355.48] than the truth that God gives. -[4356.78 --> 4358.88] That's what I hope that we can see tonight. -[4359.72 --> 4361.02] First, Kevin, for you, -[4361.02 --> 4366.32] God calls his ministers to speak only his word. -[4367.66 --> 4369.74] And then second, for all of us, church, -[4370.10 --> 4373.08] that God calls his people to want nothing less -[4373.08 --> 4375.36] than that from their ministers -[4375.36 --> 4377.42] and in your lives of faith. -[4379.40 --> 4381.54] As we read the story, -[4381.74 --> 4383.92] part of what we read is Jehoshaphat -[4383.92 --> 4385.98] telling the king of Israel -[4385.98 --> 4388.66] to seek the counsel of the Lord. -[4388.66 --> 4390.46] And if you read it in your Bibles, -[4390.88 --> 4393.28] if you read it in a similar translation to mine, -[4393.44 --> 4395.74] you might have noticed that the word, -[4395.90 --> 4397.10] that time it appears, -[4397.24 --> 4398.62] is in small caps. -[4399.52 --> 4401.76] That means it's the Hebrew word Yahweh. -[4403.02 --> 4403.86] And then so Ahab, -[4404.12 --> 4406.68] hearing the request of Jehoshaphat -[4406.68 --> 4408.02] to seek the counsel of the Lord, -[4408.16 --> 4410.30] Ahab, who's the king in Israel, -[4410.50 --> 4411.72] grabs the prophets, -[4412.00 --> 4413.46] about 400 of them, -[4413.70 --> 4415.16] and they say, -[4415.66 --> 4417.16] go for the Lord, -[4417.16 --> 4418.60] and the Hebrew word there -[4418.60 --> 4420.66] is in regular font. -[4421.56 --> 4422.34] It's Adonai. -[4423.50 --> 4425.50] Go for the Lord will give it to the king. -[4426.58 --> 4428.26] I want to suggest this is already -[4428.26 --> 4430.30] a textual hint -[4430.30 --> 4432.28] to see what's going on -[4432.28 --> 4434.88] and what's going to happen in this story. -[4436.28 --> 4439.16] Now, I for one find it really interesting -[4439.16 --> 4446.38] that when Jehoshaphat asks for a prophet, -[4446.60 --> 4446.98] he says, -[4447.10 --> 4448.60] is there not one of whom -[4448.60 --> 4450.88] we can inquire of the Lord, -[4451.04 --> 4451.82] of Yahweh? -[4452.18 --> 4454.18] And Ahab, the king of Israel, -[4454.34 --> 4454.80] responds, -[4454.96 --> 4455.26] he says, -[4455.32 --> 4456.68] well, there is one -[4456.68 --> 4459.90] of whom we can inquire of the Lord. -[4460.36 --> 4461.32] And I make this point -[4461.32 --> 4462.84] because I think it's interesting -[4462.84 --> 4464.34] that he knows -[4464.34 --> 4466.04] his prophets -[4466.04 --> 4467.40] are not -[4467.40 --> 4469.34] inquiring of the Lord. -[4470.44 --> 4472.60] He knows there is one who is, -[4473.08 --> 4474.14] but the ones he likes -[4474.14 --> 4474.96] are not. -[4476.96 --> 4478.50] But if not of the Lord, -[4479.28 --> 4480.24] then what? -[4481.24 --> 4481.96] Or then who? -[4481.96 --> 4485.56] Now, he also admits -[4485.56 --> 4487.72] that he doesn't like Micaiah -[4487.72 --> 4490.04] because Micaiah never says -[4490.04 --> 4491.80] good things about the king. -[4491.92 --> 4493.64] He never prophesies blessing -[4493.64 --> 4495.82] or success or prosperity. -[4496.18 --> 4498.76] And so, Ahab has surrounded himself -[4498.76 --> 4500.02] with 400 prophets -[4500.02 --> 4502.24] who tell him what he wants to hear -[4502.24 --> 4503.82] and he's pushed away -[4503.82 --> 4505.56] the one who tells him -[4505.56 --> 4506.54] what the Lord says. -[4509.26 --> 4510.76] But in comes Micaiah -[4510.76 --> 4512.16] to this scene -[4512.16 --> 4513.06] of great pomp -[4513.06 --> 4514.10] and circumstance, -[4514.68 --> 4515.64] the two kings -[4515.64 --> 4517.56] are dressed in their royal robes. -[4517.68 --> 4519.00] They're sitting on their thrones -[4519.00 --> 4520.52] in front of the assembly -[4520.52 --> 4521.32] of prophets -[4521.32 --> 4522.14] who have gathered. -[4522.56 --> 4523.46] One of the prophets -[4523.46 --> 4524.46] even has props -[4524.46 --> 4525.76] to make his point. -[4526.18 --> 4526.34] Right? -[4526.40 --> 4527.54] They're all saying things. -[4527.70 --> 4528.16] Do it! -[4528.36 --> 4529.76] The Lord has given it to you. -[4529.78 --> 4530.06] And again, -[4530.12 --> 4531.22] if you're looking in your Bibles, -[4532.30 --> 4533.08] that word Lord -[4533.08 --> 4535.60] is now in small caps. -[4538.50 --> 4539.44] They've returned -[4539.44 --> 4541.66] to using the word Lord -[4541.66 --> 4542.66] or Yahweh -[4542.66 --> 4543.86] in these messages. -[4544.00 --> 4544.30] Now, -[4544.40 --> 4546.14] they're using the right words -[4546.14 --> 4548.56] even if they're giving -[4548.56 --> 4550.18] a false message. -[4551.24 --> 4552.36] They're using -[4552.36 --> 4552.84] the shibboleths -[4552.84 --> 4554.80] of a cultural moment, -[4555.14 --> 4556.12] a dog whistle -[4556.12 --> 4556.78] to maintain -[4556.78 --> 4557.90] their influence -[4557.90 --> 4559.22] and their power -[4559.22 --> 4560.36] in front of the king. -[4560.36 --> 4564.14] The servant, -[4564.56 --> 4565.24] hearing all of this, -[4565.32 --> 4565.88] seeing all this, -[4565.98 --> 4566.90] turns to Micaiah -[4566.90 --> 4568.24] whom he's ushered in -[4568.24 --> 4569.16] and he says to them, -[4569.48 --> 4570.54] say what they're saying. -[4571.30 --> 4572.48] Speak favorably. -[4573.44 --> 4574.08] In Hebrew, -[4574.24 --> 4574.40] again, -[4574.46 --> 4575.08] the word there -[4575.08 --> 4575.96] is repeated. -[4576.50 --> 4576.82] It says, -[4577.22 --> 4579.10] they are predicting success. -[4579.22 --> 4579.44] Literally, -[4579.60 --> 4579.82] it says, -[4579.92 --> 4581.26] they are saying good words. -[4581.64 --> 4582.84] Your words should agree. -[4583.24 --> 4584.58] Also predict success. -[4584.58 --> 4585.70] Say good words. -[4585.70 --> 4590.70] Can we just recognize -[4590.70 --> 4592.72] that when you tell a prophet -[4592.72 --> 4593.70] what to predict, -[4594.86 --> 4596.12] they're no longer a prophet -[4596.12 --> 4598.02] but a puppet. -[4600.10 --> 4601.54] And this is the first point -[4601.54 --> 4602.94] for tonight. -[4604.80 --> 4606.78] There will always be -[4606.78 --> 4609.32] an external temptation -[4609.32 --> 4612.04] to say the kinds of things -[4612.04 --> 4613.72] that people want to hear. -[4613.72 --> 4616.84] This isn't unique to Israel. -[4618.14 --> 4619.68] Paul says the same thing -[4619.68 --> 4620.22] to Timothy -[4620.22 --> 4622.24] in the early church. -[4622.32 --> 4623.34] In his final charge, -[4623.40 --> 4623.96] we've already read -[4623.96 --> 4624.82] part of it tonight, -[4625.34 --> 4626.58] Paul says to Timothy, -[4626.78 --> 4627.50] preach the word, -[4627.66 --> 4628.26] be prepared, -[4628.42 --> 4629.84] in season and out of season, -[4630.00 --> 4630.40] correct, -[4630.80 --> 4631.16] rebuke, -[4631.28 --> 4631.74] and encourage -[4631.74 --> 4633.02] with great patience -[4633.02 --> 4634.48] and careful instruction. -[4634.60 --> 4635.42] But then he continues, -[4636.80 --> 4638.64] for a time will come -[4638.64 --> 4641.02] when people will not put up -[4641.02 --> 4642.16] with sound doctrine, -[4642.16 --> 4644.14] instead to suit -[4644.14 --> 4645.18] their own desires, -[4645.54 --> 4646.76] they will gather around them -[4646.76 --> 4648.00] a great number of teachers -[4648.00 --> 4650.20] to say what their itching ears -[4650.20 --> 4651.34] want to hear. -[4653.84 --> 4655.14] I believe now, -[4655.72 --> 4656.80] more than ever, -[4657.46 --> 4659.02] is that time. -[4660.70 --> 4661.58] With social media, -[4662.00 --> 4662.68] with YouTube, -[4663.04 --> 4663.94] with Reddit forums -[4663.94 --> 4665.10] and Discord groups, -[4665.10 --> 4666.84] it is so easy -[4666.84 --> 4668.88] to get our ears scratched. -[4670.26 --> 4671.62] It is so easy -[4671.62 --> 4672.66] to find messages -[4672.66 --> 4673.40] that confirm -[4673.40 --> 4674.72] what we already believe, -[4675.72 --> 4677.54] to only be challenged -[4677.54 --> 4680.34] to go into greater extremes -[4680.34 --> 4682.38] of our particular perspectives, -[4682.94 --> 4685.22] to only be challenged -[4685.22 --> 4686.94] to affirm -[4686.94 --> 4689.22] what we've already said. -[4689.22 --> 4690.62] socially, -[4691.20 --> 4692.68] like gathers unto like, -[4693.00 --> 4694.16] and technologically, -[4694.72 --> 4695.66] as algorithms -[4695.66 --> 4697.42] remove contrasting choices -[4697.42 --> 4698.14] and replace it -[4698.14 --> 4698.98] with echo chambers, -[4699.30 --> 4700.32] sometimes without even -[4700.32 --> 4701.34] our knowing it's happening, -[4701.62 --> 4703.10] we curate the messages -[4703.10 --> 4704.04] we receive, -[4704.44 --> 4706.10] and curating all of that, -[4706.18 --> 4706.96] either on our own -[4706.96 --> 4708.34] or on our behalf, -[4708.68 --> 4709.70] ends up shaping -[4709.70 --> 4711.60] our experience of reality, -[4711.86 --> 4713.04] such that we don't see -[4713.04 --> 4714.42] the same world anymore -[4714.42 --> 4715.42] if we have different -[4715.42 --> 4716.36] political opinions. -[4716.36 --> 4719.78] which just drives us -[4719.78 --> 4720.42] further down -[4720.42 --> 4721.26] the rabbit hole -[4721.26 --> 4722.26] of the wonderland -[4722.26 --> 4723.46] of our own making -[4723.46 --> 4724.64] and our prophets, -[4724.76 --> 4725.74] our Cheshire cats -[4725.74 --> 4727.16] created in our own image, -[4728.22 --> 4729.40] caroling the same tune, -[4730.16 --> 4731.04] always familiar, -[4731.88 --> 4732.60] already queen -[4732.60 --> 4733.24] in our hearts. -[4739.16 --> 4740.06] But perhaps -[4740.06 --> 4741.16] the greater temptation -[4741.16 --> 4746.50] is the one -[4746.50 --> 4746.84] in the heart -[4746.84 --> 4747.36] of the preacher. -[4754.04 --> 4755.00] I can tell them -[4755.00 --> 4755.98] what they want to hear -[4755.98 --> 4758.10] and they will like me. -[4760.70 --> 4761.80] I know exactly -[4761.80 --> 4762.98] what I have to do -[4762.98 --> 4764.44] to exceed -[4764.44 --> 4765.44] their expectations -[4765.44 --> 4766.76] and to hit -[4766.76 --> 4767.62] all the measures -[4767.62 --> 4768.56] of success -[4768.56 --> 4769.54] in the work -[4769.54 --> 4770.36] that they've given me. -[4771.16 --> 4772.06] and they will -[4772.06 --> 4772.98] pay me for it. -[4778.60 --> 4779.74] I have a penchant -[4779.74 --> 4780.44] for the dramatic. -[4781.90 --> 4783.38] I can make them cry, -[4784.42 --> 4785.82] I can make them laugh, -[4786.40 --> 4788.28] and I can make them feel -[4788.28 --> 4789.40] like the Holy Spirit -[4789.40 --> 4790.34] is in the room -[4790.34 --> 4792.70] and they will love me -[4792.70 --> 4793.48] for it. -[4793.48 --> 4799.04] A careful person -[4799.04 --> 4800.00] can stand here, -[4800.84 --> 4801.32] week in -[4801.32 --> 4802.30] and week out, -[4802.70 --> 4803.90] and itch your ears. -[4805.90 --> 4807.14] And you will thank God -[4807.14 --> 4807.50] for them. -[4811.08 --> 4811.52] Look, -[4812.30 --> 4813.22] the other prophets -[4813.22 --> 4814.08] without exception -[4814.08 --> 4815.32] are predicting success. -[4816.76 --> 4818.10] They make me feel good. -[4818.70 --> 4819.58] He makes me laugh. -[4819.64 --> 4820.58] He keeps my attention. -[4820.58 --> 4822.16] The fans are doing alright. -[4823.98 --> 4824.82] Let your word -[4824.82 --> 4826.24] agree with theirs. -[4827.12 --> 4828.46] Predict my success. -[4829.08 --> 4830.22] Scratch my ears. -[4834.12 --> 4835.28] And so what are we to do? -[4838.28 --> 4839.32] Verse 14, -[4839.32 --> 4842.74] but Micaiah said, -[4844.22 --> 4844.82] as surely -[4844.82 --> 4846.54] as the Lord -[4846.54 --> 4847.98] lives, -[4848.76 --> 4850.20] I can tell him -[4850.20 --> 4850.78] only -[4850.78 --> 4851.84] what the Lord -[4851.84 --> 4853.78] tells me. -[4855.92 --> 4857.32] Preach the word. -[4858.32 --> 4858.96] Correct. -[4859.64 --> 4860.24] Rebuke. -[4860.76 --> 4861.36] Encourage. -[4861.36 --> 4863.88] It's interesting to me -[4863.88 --> 4864.48] that Paul -[4864.48 --> 4865.46] in that text -[4865.46 --> 4866.20] to Timothy -[4866.20 --> 4867.58] contrasts -[4867.58 --> 4868.52] things that -[4868.52 --> 4869.78] itch people's ears -[4869.78 --> 4871.44] with sound doctrine. -[4872.58 --> 4873.90] Paul contradicts -[4873.90 --> 4874.62] itching ears -[4874.62 --> 4875.88] with sound doctrine -[4875.88 --> 4876.82] and the phrase there, -[4876.96 --> 4877.64] sound doctrine, -[4877.88 --> 4878.70] literally means -[4878.70 --> 4879.90] healthy teaching. -[4880.90 --> 4882.46] It's the kind of truth -[4882.46 --> 4883.84] that nourishes the soul, -[4884.42 --> 4886.10] that strengthens the church, -[4886.36 --> 4887.62] and that keeps faith alive. -[4887.62 --> 4890.28] But just like medicine, -[4891.08 --> 4891.84] healthy teaching -[4891.84 --> 4893.04] isn't always pleasant. -[4894.04 --> 4894.96] It doesn't always -[4894.96 --> 4896.42] go down easy. -[4897.84 --> 4898.58] But that's why -[4898.58 --> 4899.34] Micaiah's words -[4899.34 --> 4900.38] matter so much. -[4901.18 --> 4901.78] As surely -[4901.78 --> 4902.82] as the Lord lives, -[4902.88 --> 4903.84] I can only tell him -[4903.84 --> 4904.32] what the Lord -[4904.32 --> 4904.92] tells me. -[4905.20 --> 4906.52] To be a faithful preacher -[4906.52 --> 4907.28] means -[4907.28 --> 4908.62] you do not -[4908.62 --> 4909.54] edit God. -[4911.56 --> 4912.52] You do not -[4912.52 --> 4913.02] sand down -[4913.02 --> 4913.74] the rough edges -[4913.74 --> 4914.70] of his word -[4914.70 --> 4916.20] to make it fit -[4916.20 --> 4917.42] our modern sensibilities. -[4918.24 --> 4919.18] You do not trade -[4919.18 --> 4919.74] the language -[4919.74 --> 4920.96] of sin and grace -[4920.96 --> 4922.16] for the softer tones -[4922.16 --> 4923.56] of self-help. -[4923.82 --> 4924.92] You do not hide -[4924.92 --> 4925.58] the scandal -[4925.58 --> 4926.28] of the cross -[4926.28 --> 4927.86] behind the polish -[4927.86 --> 4928.70] of relevance. -[4931.40 --> 4932.40] One of the -[4932.40 --> 4933.34] Bible translations -[4933.34 --> 4935.02] that I like -[4935.02 --> 4935.56] translates -[4935.56 --> 4936.94] that Greek idiom -[4936.94 --> 4937.88] itching ears -[4937.88 --> 4939.00] as -[4939.00 --> 4939.86] they have -[4939.86 --> 4940.92] an insatiable -[4940.92 --> 4941.72] curiosity -[4941.72 --> 4942.52] to hear -[4942.52 --> 4943.52] new things. -[4945.24 --> 4946.06] So the contrast -[4946.06 --> 4946.96] is between -[4946.96 --> 4948.32] new things -[4948.32 --> 4949.42] and sound -[4949.42 --> 4950.20] doctrine. -[4951.74 --> 4952.72] The moment -[4952.72 --> 4953.44] we soften -[4953.44 --> 4954.06] the doctrines -[4954.06 --> 4954.82] of our faith -[4954.82 --> 4956.12] for new things, -[4956.48 --> 4956.62] right, -[4956.68 --> 4957.88] when the holiness -[4957.88 --> 4958.52] of God -[4958.52 --> 4959.12] is replaced -[4959.12 --> 4959.84] with the happiness -[4959.84 --> 4960.54] of people, -[4960.74 --> 4961.60] when the sinfulness -[4961.60 --> 4962.36] of humanity -[4962.36 --> 4963.08] is replaced -[4963.08 --> 4964.08] with the self-esteem -[4964.08 --> 4964.90] of the individual, -[4965.30 --> 4966.38] when the exclusivity -[4966.38 --> 4966.96] of Christ -[4966.96 --> 4967.52] is replaced -[4967.52 --> 4968.18] with the value -[4968.18 --> 4968.76] of tolerance, -[4969.12 --> 4969.82] when the necessity -[4969.82 --> 4970.52] of redemption -[4970.52 --> 4971.32] is replaced -[4971.32 --> 4972.18] with the celebration -[4972.18 --> 4973.04] of vice, -[4973.04 --> 4974.40] when the authority -[4974.40 --> 4975.12] of Scripture -[4975.12 --> 4975.84] is replaced -[4975.84 --> 4976.64] with the autonomy -[4976.64 --> 4977.40] of self, -[4977.60 --> 4978.50] we have ceased -[4978.50 --> 4980.08] to speak from God -[4980.08 --> 4981.36] and we have begun -[4981.36 --> 4982.58] speaking in place -[4982.58 --> 4983.22] of God. -[4985.88 --> 4987.36] Sound doctrine -[4987.36 --> 4989.28] is not -[4989.28 --> 4990.82] called dogma. -[4991.98 --> 4992.70] Sound doctrine -[4992.70 --> 4994.18] is the living truth -[4994.18 --> 4995.66] about a living God, -[4995.86 --> 4997.00] a truth that heals -[4997.00 --> 4998.10] and restores -[4998.10 --> 4999.16] and corrects -[4999.16 --> 5000.72] and brings to life -[5000.72 --> 5002.22] the people of God. -[5004.44 --> 5005.16] That's why -[5005.16 --> 5005.78] the preacher -[5005.78 --> 5007.24] must say -[5007.24 --> 5008.24] what the Lord -[5008.24 --> 5009.18] says. -[5011.82 --> 5013.12] Because God's people -[5013.12 --> 5015.74] cannot live -[5015.74 --> 5017.20] on opinions. -[5018.68 --> 5019.20] God's people -[5019.20 --> 5020.04] cannot survive -[5020.04 --> 5021.02] on entertainment -[5021.02 --> 5022.84] or on positive thinking. -[5023.32 --> 5024.12] We live -[5024.12 --> 5025.36] on every word -[5025.36 --> 5025.96] that comes -[5025.96 --> 5026.64] from the mouth -[5026.64 --> 5027.64] of the Lord. -[5030.72 --> 5031.88] But again, -[5032.96 --> 5033.80] sound doctrine -[5033.80 --> 5035.08] is never -[5035.08 --> 5036.10] just a set -[5036.10 --> 5037.32] of right ideas. -[5037.56 --> 5038.32] It's not merely -[5038.32 --> 5039.58] believing the correct -[5039.58 --> 5040.66] things about God. -[5040.80 --> 5041.96] It is belonging -[5041.96 --> 5043.02] to the living God -[5043.02 --> 5043.50] himself. -[5045.52 --> 5046.48] True doctrine -[5046.48 --> 5048.28] always leads -[5048.28 --> 5049.94] to lived -[5049.94 --> 5050.94] discipleship. -[5053.00 --> 5054.42] Because at the -[5054.42 --> 5055.22] center of -[5055.22 --> 5056.44] our doctrine -[5056.44 --> 5058.32] is not a system -[5058.32 --> 5060.00] but a savior. -[5060.72 --> 5062.70] the word -[5062.70 --> 5063.48] we preach -[5063.48 --> 5064.56] is not abstract. -[5065.62 --> 5066.58] It is incarnate. -[5067.78 --> 5068.18] Truth -[5068.18 --> 5069.10] has a name -[5069.10 --> 5070.02] and a face -[5070.02 --> 5071.04] and we call him -[5071.04 --> 5071.96] Jesus Christ. -[5072.20 --> 5072.80] The word -[5072.80 --> 5073.88] made flesh. -[5075.26 --> 5076.06] There's an -[5076.06 --> 5077.10] incredible story -[5077.10 --> 5077.66] of Jesus -[5077.66 --> 5079.72] who had just -[5079.72 --> 5081.10] spent some time -[5081.10 --> 5082.50] teaching his followers -[5082.50 --> 5084.14] a really hard truth. -[5084.26 --> 5084.88] He told them -[5084.88 --> 5085.90] unless you eat -[5085.90 --> 5086.66] my flesh -[5086.66 --> 5087.58] and drink my blood -[5087.58 --> 5088.30] you cannot enter -[5088.30 --> 5088.70] the kingdom -[5088.70 --> 5089.54] of heaven -[5089.54 --> 5090.16] and they're like -[5090.16 --> 5091.34] whoa this is weird. -[5092.14 --> 5092.94] I'm out. -[5093.62 --> 5094.46] And they left. -[5094.90 --> 5095.62] They ran away -[5095.62 --> 5096.46] and Jesus turns -[5096.46 --> 5097.24] to his disciples -[5097.24 --> 5098.04] and he says -[5098.04 --> 5099.42] will you -[5099.42 --> 5100.82] run away too? -[5101.96 --> 5102.90] Do you also -[5102.90 --> 5103.60] want to leave? -[5104.60 --> 5105.28] And Peter says -[5105.28 --> 5105.64] to him -[5105.64 --> 5106.72] Lord -[5106.72 --> 5108.10] to whom -[5108.10 --> 5108.92] shall we go? -[5109.60 --> 5110.24] For you -[5110.24 --> 5111.48] have the words -[5111.48 --> 5112.38] of eternal -[5112.38 --> 5113.46] life. -[5114.66 --> 5115.58] To whom -[5115.58 --> 5116.46] shall we go? -[5116.46 --> 5118.00] for you -[5118.00 --> 5118.80] have the words -[5118.80 --> 5119.96] of eternal life. -[5120.04 --> 5120.86] Peter understood -[5120.86 --> 5121.98] that truth -[5121.98 --> 5122.98] isn't just about -[5122.98 --> 5124.18] what Jesus says -[5124.18 --> 5124.94] it's about -[5124.94 --> 5125.70] who Jesus -[5125.70 --> 5126.28] is -[5126.28 --> 5128.26] and his words -[5128.26 --> 5128.94] give life -[5128.94 --> 5129.76] because he -[5129.76 --> 5131.00] is life. -[5132.64 --> 5133.14] And to cling -[5133.14 --> 5134.10] to sound doctrine -[5134.10 --> 5134.98] then is to cling -[5134.98 --> 5135.70] to Christ -[5135.70 --> 5137.56] and none other. -[5138.42 --> 5139.16] To preach -[5139.16 --> 5139.84] sound doctrine -[5139.84 --> 5140.76] is to call people -[5140.76 --> 5141.64] into relationship -[5141.64 --> 5142.64] with the living -[5142.64 --> 5143.34] word -[5143.34 --> 5144.98] whose words -[5144.98 --> 5145.96] both wound -[5145.96 --> 5146.98] and heal -[5146.98 --> 5148.42] convict -[5148.42 --> 5149.68] and comfort -[5149.68 --> 5151.04] both slay -[5151.04 --> 5152.44] and make alive. -[5154.04 --> 5154.82] That's why -[5154.82 --> 5155.34] we dare not -[5155.34 --> 5156.48] soften what he says. -[5156.84 --> 5157.78] His hard words -[5157.78 --> 5159.08] are merciful words -[5159.08 --> 5160.26] because they lead -[5160.26 --> 5161.22] to eternal life. -[5162.58 --> 5163.44] The preacher's task -[5163.44 --> 5164.44] is not to make -[5164.44 --> 5165.32] that truth -[5165.32 --> 5166.10] easier -[5166.10 --> 5166.94] but to make it -[5166.94 --> 5167.48] heard. -[5168.52 --> 5169.12] To proclaim -[5169.12 --> 5169.64] Christ -[5169.64 --> 5170.34] until hearts -[5170.34 --> 5170.76] burn -[5170.76 --> 5171.92] and the disciples -[5171.92 --> 5173.06] say again -[5173.06 --> 5173.42] Lord -[5173.42 --> 5173.96] to whom -[5173.96 --> 5174.80] shall we go? -[5177.14 --> 5178.24] Or as you have -[5178.24 --> 5179.86] said and heard -[5179.86 --> 5180.70] from people -[5180.70 --> 5181.42] wiser than me -[5181.42 --> 5182.54] preach grace -[5182.54 --> 5183.34] until they get it. -[5185.82 --> 5186.90] The true prophet -[5186.90 --> 5187.92] not only says -[5187.92 --> 5189.68] but shows. -[5191.18 --> 5192.18] The preacher's task -[5192.18 --> 5192.56] then -[5192.56 --> 5193.28] is to make -[5193.28 --> 5193.78] the truth -[5193.78 --> 5194.70] of God's word -[5194.70 --> 5195.86] and the transformation -[5195.86 --> 5197.08] that comes from it -[5197.08 --> 5198.00] visible. -[5200.74 --> 5201.58] John Owen -[5201.58 --> 5202.62] is a -[5202.62 --> 5204.82] 17th century -[5204.82 --> 5205.72] pastor -[5205.72 --> 5207.70] and he says -[5207.70 --> 5208.98] that the pastor's -[5208.98 --> 5209.46] life -[5209.46 --> 5210.38] should be -[5210.38 --> 5210.98] vocal. -[5212.16 --> 5212.58] Sermons -[5212.58 --> 5213.30] must be -[5213.30 --> 5214.02] practiced -[5214.02 --> 5215.24] as well as -[5215.24 --> 5215.60] preached. -[5219.04 --> 5220.16] Now lastly -[5220.16 --> 5222.34] and I'll bring us -[5222.34 --> 5222.92] to a close -[5222.92 --> 5223.40] with this. -[5224.48 --> 5225.14] What about us? -[5226.14 --> 5226.94] What about you? -[5227.62 --> 5228.26] The people -[5228.26 --> 5228.94] who listen -[5228.94 --> 5229.62] week in -[5229.62 --> 5230.10] and week out -[5230.10 --> 5230.64] who gather -[5230.64 --> 5231.92] under the word. -[5233.30 --> 5234.58] If Micaiah's -[5234.58 --> 5235.24] courage -[5235.24 --> 5236.10] speaks to the -[5236.10 --> 5236.48] preacher -[5236.48 --> 5238.10] it also -[5238.10 --> 5238.74] speaks to the -[5238.74 --> 5239.12] people. -[5240.86 --> 5242.08] Every church -[5242.08 --> 5243.58] shapes its own -[5243.58 --> 5244.40] prophets. -[5245.68 --> 5246.50] Congregations -[5246.50 --> 5247.06] gather -[5247.06 --> 5247.96] teachers -[5247.96 --> 5249.22] to scratch -[5249.22 --> 5250.22] their ears -[5250.22 --> 5251.42] or -[5251.42 --> 5253.52] in hunger -[5253.52 --> 5255.04] for the truth -[5255.04 --> 5255.84] of God -[5255.84 --> 5257.06] however hard -[5257.06 --> 5258.12] it may be. -[5260.62 --> 5261.02] And the -[5261.02 --> 5261.48] health -[5261.48 --> 5262.34] of the -[5262.34 --> 5262.84] pulpit -[5262.84 --> 5263.72] directly -[5263.72 --> 5264.50] corresponds -[5264.50 --> 5265.58] to the -[5265.58 --> 5266.00] hunger -[5266.00 --> 5266.96] in the -[5266.96 --> 5267.22] pew. -[5268.58 --> 5269.52] So let me -[5269.52 --> 5269.88] ask -[5269.88 --> 5272.20] only if it -[5272.20 --> 5273.02] makes us -[5273.02 --> 5273.94] feel good -[5273.94 --> 5274.68] or -[5274.68 --> 5275.60] do we -[5275.60 --> 5275.98] come to -[5275.98 --> 5276.32] worship -[5276.32 --> 5277.20] expecting -[5277.20 --> 5277.96] a good -[5277.96 --> 5278.60] and service -[5278.60 --> 5279.42] to consume -[5279.42 --> 5280.36] or -[5280.36 --> 5280.84] do we -[5280.84 --> 5281.20] come -[5281.20 --> 5281.86] expecting -[5281.86 --> 5282.86] that here -[5282.86 --> 5283.28] in this -[5283.28 --> 5283.60] moment -[5283.60 --> 5283.98] and in -[5283.98 --> 5284.50] these words -[5284.50 --> 5285.16] we will -[5285.16 --> 5285.86] meet the -[5285.86 --> 5286.20] living -[5286.20 --> 5286.66] Jesus -[5286.66 --> 5288.42] and that -[5288.42 --> 5289.04] his word -[5289.04 --> 5289.80] will speak -[5289.80 --> 5290.66] directly to -[5290.66 --> 5291.26] our hearts -[5291.26 --> 5292.90] and transform -[5292.90 --> 5293.58] our lives. -[5295.82 --> 5296.66] And so for -[5296.66 --> 5296.96] all of you -[5296.96 --> 5297.80] pray for us -[5297.80 --> 5298.72] pray for your -[5298.72 --> 5299.12] pastors -[5299.12 --> 5300.10] pray for the -[5300.10 --> 5300.54] people who -[5300.54 --> 5301.38] stand up -[5301.38 --> 5301.66] here -[5301.66 --> 5302.54] that we -[5302.54 --> 5302.90] would have -[5302.90 --> 5303.44] the courage -[5303.44 --> 5304.54] to speak -[5304.54 --> 5305.00] what the -[5305.00 --> 5305.70] Lord says -[5305.70 --> 5306.34] no matter -[5306.34 --> 5306.74] what -[5306.74 --> 5308.64] and to -[5308.64 --> 5310.34] study the -[5310.34 --> 5310.66] word -[5310.66 --> 5311.36] yourselves -[5311.36 --> 5312.56] so that -[5312.56 --> 5313.28] you can -[5313.28 --> 5313.72] test -[5313.72 --> 5314.40] everything -[5314.40 --> 5314.88] that is -[5314.88 --> 5315.10] said -[5315.10 --> 5315.78] from up -[5315.78 --> 5315.96] here -[5315.96 --> 5316.32] so that -[5316.32 --> 5316.84] you can -[5316.84 --> 5317.36] hold us -[5317.36 --> 5317.92] accountable -[5317.92 --> 5318.68] to the -[5318.68 --> 5319.00] word -[5319.00 --> 5319.72] of God. -[5321.06 --> 5321.86] Encourage -[5321.86 --> 5323.18] faithfulness -[5323.18 --> 5323.92] in your -[5323.92 --> 5324.44] pastors -[5324.44 --> 5325.58] more than -[5325.58 --> 5326.56] eloquence. -[5326.72 --> 5327.10] Encourage -[5327.10 --> 5327.60] depth -[5327.60 --> 5328.44] more than -[5328.44 --> 5329.12] novelty -[5329.12 --> 5330.00] obedience -[5330.00 --> 5331.34] more than -[5331.34 --> 5332.46] entertainment. -[5332.46 --> 5335.56] And when -[5335.56 --> 5335.94] the word -[5335.94 --> 5336.38] of God -[5336.38 --> 5337.32] cuts you -[5337.32 --> 5338.06] to the -[5338.06 --> 5338.36] quick -[5338.36 --> 5340.52] don't run -[5340.52 --> 5341.04] from it -[5341.04 --> 5342.56] but let -[5342.56 --> 5343.00] it heal -[5343.00 --> 5343.36] you -[5343.36 --> 5344.76] let it -[5344.76 --> 5345.28] restore -[5345.28 --> 5345.68] you -[5345.68 --> 5346.76] let it -[5346.76 --> 5347.54] fill your -[5347.54 --> 5347.96] heart -[5347.96 --> 5348.64] and your -[5348.64 --> 5349.10] life -[5349.10 --> 5350.78] because those -[5350.78 --> 5351.54] who hunger -[5351.54 --> 5352.30] for the -[5352.30 --> 5352.86] truth -[5352.86 --> 5353.50] will be -[5353.50 --> 5354.00] filled -[5354.00 --> 5354.84] with -[5354.84 --> 5355.74] life. -[5357.00 --> 5357.22] And a -[5357.22 --> 5357.68] church -[5357.68 --> 5359.48] that wants -[5359.48 --> 5360.00] the word -[5360.00 --> 5360.58] of God -[5360.58 --> 5361.42] will hear -[5361.42 --> 5362.10] the voice -[5362.10 --> 5362.88] of the -[5362.88 --> 5363.18] Lord. -[5363.82 --> 5364.16] Jesus -[5364.16 --> 5365.40] has the -[5365.40 --> 5365.82] words -[5365.82 --> 5366.48] and is -[5366.48 --> 5367.12] the word -[5367.12 --> 5367.72] of -[5367.72 --> 5368.34] eternal -[5368.34 --> 5369.56] life. -[5371.56 --> 5372.34] And in -[5372.34 --> 5372.88] his name -[5372.88 --> 5374.08] all God's -[5374.08 --> 5374.60] people said -[5374.60 --> 5375.72] amen. -[5376.72 --> 5377.36] Pray with -[5377.36 --> 5377.54] me. -[5384.98 --> 5385.58] Holy -[5385.58 --> 5386.82] God -[5386.82 --> 5391.18] take -[5391.18 --> 5391.82] your word -[5391.82 --> 5394.00] that it -[5394.00 --> 5394.18] might -[5394.18 --> 5394.78] transform -[5394.78 --> 5395.12] our -[5395.12 --> 5395.52] hearts -[5395.52 --> 5395.96] and -[5395.96 --> 5396.28] lives. -[5396.40 --> 5396.56] Take -[5396.56 --> 5396.72] your -[5396.72 --> 5397.04] word -[5397.04 --> 5397.38] that it -[5397.38 --> 5397.60] might -[5397.60 --> 5398.48] spur -[5398.48 --> 5399.00] Holy -[5399.00 --> 5399.52] Spirit -[5399.52 --> 5400.14] imagination -[5400.14 --> 5400.92] in us -[5400.92 --> 5401.34] for what -[5401.34 --> 5401.70] is -[5401.70 --> 5402.56] possible. -[5402.98 --> 5403.20] Take -[5403.20 --> 5403.40] your -[5403.40 --> 5403.82] word -[5403.82 --> 5404.54] and speak -[5404.54 --> 5404.80] your -[5404.80 --> 5405.28] truth -[5405.28 --> 5405.56] that -[5405.56 --> 5406.66] lives -[5406.66 --> 5407.18] may be -[5407.18 --> 5407.78] changed -[5407.78 --> 5408.08] that -[5408.08 --> 5408.66] marriages -[5408.66 --> 5409.32] may be -[5409.32 --> 5409.72] saved -[5409.72 --> 5409.98] that -[5409.98 --> 5410.46] friends -[5410.46 --> 5411.00] may be -[5411.00 --> 5411.86] reconciled -[5411.86 --> 5412.06] that -[5412.06 --> 5412.62] parents -[5412.62 --> 5413.20] may be -[5413.20 --> 5413.72] restored -[5413.72 --> 5413.96] in -[5413.96 --> 5414.50] relationship -[5414.50 --> 5414.96] to their -[5414.96 --> 5415.32] children -[5415.32 --> 5415.98] and that -[5415.98 --> 5416.58] all the -[5416.58 --> 5416.92] world -[5416.92 --> 5417.64] may know -[5417.64 --> 5417.96] that -[5417.96 --> 5418.50] you -[5418.50 --> 5419.42] alone -[5419.42 --> 5420.00] are -[5420.00 --> 5420.74] God -[5420.74 --> 5424.14] to the -[5424.14 --> 5424.62] glory -[5424.62 --> 5425.46] of your -[5425.46 --> 5426.22] great -[5426.22 --> 5427.08] name. -[5428.80 --> 5429.24] So -[5429.24 --> 5429.98] fill -[5429.98 --> 5430.62] our -[5430.62 --> 5431.52] vision -[5431.52 --> 5432.22] with your -[5432.22 --> 5432.66] beauty. -[5433.60 --> 5434.30] So fill -[5434.30 --> 5435.20] our ears -[5435.20 --> 5435.78] and our -[5435.78 --> 5436.30] minds -[5436.30 --> 5437.28] with your -[5437.28 --> 5437.74] word -[5437.74 --> 5438.68] and so -[5438.68 --> 5439.54] fill our -[5439.54 --> 5440.04] hearts -[5440.04 --> 5440.74] with your -[5440.74 --> 5441.18] love -[5441.18 --> 5442.48] that we -[5442.48 --> 5442.94] can't -[5442.94 --> 5443.26] but -[5443.26 --> 5444.04] overflow -[5444.04 --> 5445.34] in all -[5445.34 --> 5445.76] areas -[5445.76 --> 5446.30] in all -[5446.30 --> 5446.62] ways -[5446.62 --> 5447.10] in all -[5447.10 --> 5447.54] words -[5447.54 --> 5449.84] with you -[5449.84 --> 5451.06] and you -[5451.06 --> 5451.38] alone. -[5453.54 --> 5454.60] May our -[5454.60 --> 5455.90] lives -[5455.90 --> 5456.72] together -[5456.72 --> 5457.38] be -[5457.38 --> 5458.54] sermons -[5458.54 --> 5459.50] lived -[5459.50 --> 5460.64] even as -[5460.64 --> 5460.94] we are -[5460.94 --> 5461.62] nourished -[5461.62 --> 5462.74] by sermons -[5462.74 --> 5463.54] preached. -[5464.92 --> 5465.30] In Christ -[5465.30 --> 5465.84] Jesus we -[5465.84 --> 5466.10] pray. -[5466.94 --> 5467.28] Amen. -[5474.04 --> 5476.68] God -[5476.68 --> 5480.02] God -[5481.02 --> 5481.62] He -[5481.62 --> 5482.52] He -[5482.52 --> 5483.28] He -[5483.28 --> 5484.22] God -[5484.46 --> 5485.94] he -[5485.94 --> 5486.00] has -[5486.00 --> 5486.10] Come -[5486.10 --> 5486.72] . -[5486.76 --> 5487.08] church -[5487.14 --> 5487.42] wide -[5487.42 --> 5513.36] Be thou my vision, O Lord of my heart. -[5513.36 --> 5521.50] Not be all else to be saved that thou art. -[5522.10 --> 5529.74] Thou my best God, my day or my night. -[5530.14 --> 5537.04] Waking or sleeping, thy presence my light. -[5543.36 --> 5551.12] Be thou my wisdom, and thou my true word. -[5551.66 --> 5558.80] I ever with thee, and thou with me, Lord. -[5559.36 --> 5566.36] Thou my great Father, I thy true Son. -[5566.36 --> 5574.32] Thou in me dwelling, and I with thee one. -[5580.72 --> 5588.26] Riches I lean on, your man's empty grace. -[5588.26 --> 5596.02] Thou my inheritance, now and always. -[5596.66 --> 5604.12] Thou and thou only, first in my heart. -[5604.52 --> 5611.82] High King of heaven, my treasure thou art. -[5611.82 --> 5626.14] High King of heaven, my victory won. -[5626.14 --> 5634.04] May I reach heaven's joys, O bright heaven's sun. -[5634.04 --> 5641.80] Heart of my own heart, whatever be wrong. -[5641.80 --> 5650.04] Still be my vision, O ruler of all. -[5650.04 --> 5671.72] What a night. -[5671.72 --> 5675.86] Thank you all for being here tonight. -[5676.24 --> 5677.00] This is on, right? -[5677.14 --> 5677.60] Did I turn it on? -[5677.74 --> 5678.52] No, did I turn it on? -[5678.66 --> 5679.54] Did I turn it on now? -[5679.66 --> 5680.28] There it is. -[5681.24 --> 5682.66] Thank you all for being here tonight. -[5682.94 --> 5687.14] What an honor it is to be able to be in this moment right now, -[5687.18 --> 5688.50] and to be amongst all of you all. -[5688.50 --> 5689.90] I am so, so grateful. -[5690.46 --> 5694.56] I was told this is the right time for me to give a bunch of thank yous, -[5694.66 --> 5696.32] so just bear with me for a minute. -[5697.26 --> 5700.46] I want to thank my family for, I want to thank Nikki and my girls. -[5700.46 --> 5702.90] They have been very patient with me, -[5703.16 --> 5706.70] especially for the last seven years as I've gone through this education process -[5706.70 --> 5709.96] and haven't always been the pinnacle of patience myself, -[5710.22 --> 5712.86] and so I'm so grateful for them, for their love, for their support, -[5712.98 --> 5715.12] and for them being with me through this. -[5715.16 --> 5716.50] And thank you for my family as well. -[5716.60 --> 5718.40] They came all the way from Edmonton to be here tonight. -[5718.78 --> 5722.24] They have also been a huge encouragement to me as well. -[5722.84 --> 5728.10] I want to thank the staff here for Chris and for Josh for always being present -[5728.10 --> 5732.48] and be able to wrestle through what it means to be a minister, -[5732.68 --> 5737.74] to be a pastor, to be someone who works in this church -[5737.74 --> 5740.14] and does this calling of God in this way. -[5740.22 --> 5743.94] So thank you to you both and to Maria and Marilyn and Basma as well -[5743.94 --> 5749.48] for the whole staff who is there have supported me this whole process too. -[5749.96 --> 5751.08] As well as former staff. -[5751.30 --> 5752.28] I see Elsa in the back. -[5752.56 --> 5754.32] Elsa was one of the first people to tell me, -[5754.32 --> 5756.52] you should really go to get your MDiv. -[5756.60 --> 5758.68] She told me that very, very, very early on, -[5758.70 --> 5760.12] and I said, no. -[5761.02 --> 5761.94] And here we are. -[5762.14 --> 5764.96] So I've worked with many pastors over the years -[5764.96 --> 5766.98] and many staff as well, and I'm grateful for all of you. -[5767.68 --> 5768.28] Friends too. -[5768.36 --> 5769.46] I see friends have come out here. -[5769.52 --> 5771.72] They've always been encouraging and supporting me in this too, -[5772.10 --> 5773.22] and I know I can go to them. -[5773.62 --> 5774.80] So many pastors are here. -[5774.96 --> 5776.70] Colleagues of mine, you saw lots of them. -[5776.74 --> 5777.52] They prayed too. -[5777.92 --> 5778.86] They're sitting amongst. -[5780.50 --> 5781.92] We have a really good classes. -[5781.92 --> 5784.96] We have a lot of good pastors here in BC Southeast, -[5785.76 --> 5790.30] and it is a joy to have served with them for so long as well. -[5791.36 --> 5792.46] And so I thank you for that. -[5792.56 --> 5795.36] I thank you for your love and your support and for your camaraderie -[5795.36 --> 5798.12] and to be able to laugh and cry and pray together. -[5798.42 --> 5799.42] It's a blessing too. -[5800.18 --> 5802.54] And finally, I want to thank the church. -[5803.62 --> 5806.12] Elsa said it years and years ago, 16 years ago, -[5806.42 --> 5809.92] I wouldn't be here today if a good handful of you -[5809.92 --> 5812.24] didn't come up and tap me on the shoulder and say, -[5812.36 --> 5814.18] Kevin, go and do this. -[5814.68 --> 5816.66] I ignored a lot of you for a long time, -[5816.70 --> 5819.78] and then finally I started listening to God speak through you -[5819.78 --> 5821.30] and encouraged me to do this. -[5821.44 --> 5824.22] And so the body of Christ here at Emmanuel -[5824.22 --> 5828.22] is a huge reason why we have a day and a service -[5828.22 --> 5829.30] and this moment like this. -[5829.38 --> 5831.74] And so thank you for, again, your love, your encouragement, -[5831.92 --> 5832.42] your support. -[5832.52 --> 5834.72] This church has taken care of me for a long time, -[5834.72 --> 5836.82] and I hope it continues to do so -[5836.82 --> 5840.44] as I do my best to love and care for you as well. -[5842.04 --> 5845.60] Now, it is my privilege to lead you -[5845.60 --> 5847.92] in God's blessing here tonight. -[5848.00 --> 5850.82] So please open your arms and receive this blessing. -[5851.58 --> 5854.18] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[5854.68 --> 5856.86] The Lord make his face shine upon you -[5856.86 --> 5858.08] and be gracious to you. -[5858.66 --> 5860.56] The Lord turn his face toward you -[5860.56 --> 5862.04] and give you his peace. -[5862.04 --> 5864.06] And all of God's people said, -[5864.74 --> 5865.00] Amen. -[5865.00 --> 5865.16] Amen. -[5892.12 --> 5893.20] Amen. -[5893.26 --> 5905.06] Amen. -[5907.72 --> 5908.58] Amen. -[5908.58 --> 5912.16] With your precious blood and strength free. -[5914.50 --> 5925.30] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul. -[5925.30 --> 5938.30] In my life and in death, to you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[5938.58 --> 5945.42] You preserve my life in such a way that will not fail. -[5946.42 --> 5952.00] Not an air can fall from me unless you live in two. -[5952.84 --> 5957.90] Even when I'm lost in desperation. -[5959.28 --> 5964.36] All things work together for my salvation. -[5964.36 --> 5976.36] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul. -[5977.40 --> 5990.36] In my life and in death, to you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[5990.36 --> 6017.36] And my life and in death, to you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[6017.36 --> 6023.58] Always by your Holy Spirit you assure me -[6023.58 --> 6029.72] Love eternal life and make me willing and ready -[6029.72 --> 6035.14] Even when I can't see my way through -[6035.14 --> 6041.64] From now on to always be for you -[6041.64 --> 6049.92] I am not my own -[6049.92 --> 6056.66] But belong body and soul -[6056.66 --> 6062.98] In my life and in heaven -[6062.98 --> 6071.10] To you Lord, Christ my Lord -[6071.10 --> 6076.10] I am not my own -[6076.10 --> 6082.76] But belong body and soul -[6082.76 --> 6089.30] In my life and in heaven -[6089.30 --> 6096.10] To you Lord, Christ my Lord -[6096.10 --> 6101.10] I am not my own -[6101.10 --> 6103.10] I am not my own -[6103.10 --> 6107.76] But belong body and soul -[6107.76 --> 6114.10] In my life and in heaven -[6114.10 --> 6121.76] To you Lord, Christ my Lord -[6121.76 --> 6127.24] kle 우와 -[6127.30 --> 6133.40] and forth -[6133.40 --> 6145.36] JP Teoh -[6163.40 --> 6165.40] Amen. -[6193.40 --> 6195.40] Amen. -[6223.40 --> 6225.40] Amen. -[6253.40 --> 6255.40] Amen. diff --git a/Palm Sunday Worship Service - Mar 28 2021_summary.txt b/Palm Sunday Worship Service - Mar 28 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 58a90b4f9b950288d6d765cc4af25cbe44ac37ff..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Palm Sunday Worship Service - Mar 28 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,120 +0,0 @@ -• The speaker expresses surrender and trust in a higher power, willing to follow its guidance -• The importance of letting go of one's own ways and trusting in the spirit -• The idea that the speaker's life is an altar for God's fire and presence -• The need for spiritual guidance and leadership -• The concept of breaking down worldly barriers and bringing heaven down to earth -• A call to worship, praise, and recognition of God's presence, with a focus on hope, yearning, and turning towards Him -• Worship and praise -• Recognition of Jesus as Lord -• Faith to see Jesus for who he is -• Opening eyes, ears, hands, mouth, heart, and love to Jesus -• Welcome and invitation to Jesus -• Salvation and new life through Jesus -• Praise and worship with Hosanna repeated throughout -• Welcoming Jesus and worshiping God -• Announcements for youth events: Real Talk and 2020 tonight, and Good Friday services -• Easter Sunday service schedule: two services at 9am and 11am with streaming options -• Sign-up sheet full for in-person attendance at some services -• Worship and prayer on Palm Sunday -• Confession and recognition of Jesus' humility as a king -• Requests for God's presence, glory, and power in one's life -• Praise and worship through music and song -• Explanation of the significance of Hosanna on Palm Sunday -• Discussion of palm branches and ancient Middle Eastern traditions -• Introduction to Kids Corner and welcome to children in church on Palm Sunday -• Discussion of Palm Sunday celebration -• Review of last week's story about Jesus in the garden -• Introduction to today's story, Peter Denies Jesus (Luke 22 and Matthew 26) -• Retelling of events leading up to Peter's denial of Jesus -• Peter's denial: "I don't know Jesus" -• Discussion of how this event is part of God's plan -• Reflection on how Peter felt about his actions -• Questioning whether others may feel embarrassed or ashamed to be Christians -• Peter's actions made Jesus and God sad -• Importance of acknowledging God in daily life -• Reasons for God creating humans (to worship him) -• Ways to worship God beyond traditional practices -• Examples of everyday ways to say "Hosanna" to God -• Encouragement to think creatively about worship -• Prayers for those who may feel silly or unsure about their faith -• Request to give offerings in support of church budget and ministries -• Information about special offering for Cascade Christian Counseling -• Counselling services offered by Cascade Christian Counseling in Surrey -• Donations help those unable to afford private Christian counselling -• Church budget and Resonate Global Missions supported through offerings -• Prayers for church members, their families, and missionaries around the world -• Requests for healing, comfort, and guidance from God -• Thanks for medical professionals and healthcare system blessings -• Prayers for those experiencing anxiety, depression, or hardship -• Encouragement to uplift one another in love -• Clean hands and pure heart necessary for receiving blessing from God -• King of glory described as strong and mighty, mighty in battle -• Jesus enters Jerusalem on a donkey, fulfilling prophecy -• Crowd praises God and blesses the king who comes in the name of the Lord -• Reference to Luke 19:28-40 -• Jesus is spoken to by Pharisees who request he rebuke his disciples for their noise. -• Jesus responds that if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out instead. -• The speaker shares a personal story about visiting Israel and Jerusalem, including standing on the Mount of Olives looking over the city. -• The speaker reflects on Jesus' words about Palm Sunday and imagines what it would have been like to be there. -• The speaker recounts an emotional experience they had while walking through Jerusalem, weeping at the thought of Jesus gathering people to himself. -• The speaker attributes the impact of this experience to their long-standing love for the story of Jesus. -• A childhood experience with a chapel story and poem had a lasting impact -• The speaker reflects on what it would be like to be a stone praising Jesus -• Connection between the stones' praise and the purpose of creation -• Jesus as the glorious king and humans created for His praise -• Critique of self-centered living and grumbling/complaining -• Pride and self-importance contrasted with seeking God's glory -• The concept of selfishness and its prevalence in modern culture -• Self-victimization as a mindset that pervades society, especially regarding identity and relationships -• The idolatry of self-praise and how it redirects glory meant for God to oneself -• Biblical passages (Isaiah 55, Psalm 96) highlighting the joy and celebration that comes with recognizing God's authority and righteousness -• Becoming animate in nature (trees, stones, mountains, seas) -• Witnessing God's glory -• Palm Sunday and its connection to Isaiah and the Psalms -• Jesus' worthiness of praise and glorification -• The fulfillment of God's plan for salvation starting with Jesus' incarnation -• Luke's gospel being a travel narrative leading to Jerusalem and the cross -• Everything happening in the shadow of the cross from Luke 9:51 onward -• Jesus' travel narrative from Galilee to Jerusalem on Palm Sunday -• The significance of Jesus riding a donkey, described as a foal, on this journey -• The cultural and historical context of the Passover week pilgrimage to Jerusalem -• The importance of understanding why Jesus rode an animal and not walked into Jerusalem -• Luke is crafting a story in his gospel about God's plan for salvation -• Jesus' royal identity as Messiah (Anointed One) and sacrificial king are pronounced on Palm Sunday -• The need for a mediator and savior is emphasized, with Jesus fulfilling this role -• A human mediator must be more than just human; they also need to be divine, specifically God, and a king over the universe -• Donkeys are humble and unimposing animals, but also stubborn -• The story of Jesus riding a donkey into Jerusalem is significant -• Jesus' use of a donkey to enter the city emphasizes his message of peace and service -• This contrasts with traditional kings who rode horses to war -• Luke's account in the Bible quotes Psalm 118:26, which greets the king with "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord" -• The phrase has its roots in Jewish tradition as a greeting for travelers to Jerusalem during festivals -• Jesus' procession into Jerusalem is seen as a reversal of this traditional greeting, emphasizing his unique message and identity as king -• Different depiction of Jesus as a king in Luke's telling -• Exclusion of references to David's throne and nationalistic/militaristic themes -• Use of palm branches and Hosanna choruses associated with earthly kings -• People removing their symbols of power and status, laying them at Jesus' feet -• The kingdom of Jesus being one of peace, equality, and no social distinctions -• Salvation through Jesus' life and death -• The king's (Jesus') mediatorial kingship -• The kingdom of God is not limited to geography or politics -• Jesus is the mediator king of peace for God's glory -• The kingdom already started with Jesus' life, death, resurrection, and exaltation -• Creation cries out in response to this spiritual kingdom -• The citizens of the kingdom of God are described as those who are poor in spirit, meek, merciful, peacemakers, pure in heart, and hungering for righteousness. -• In contrast to grumbling, pride, selfishness, and self-victimization, the gospel transforms people into something new through worship, humility, selflessness, and victory with Jesus. -• The speaker emphasizes that it's a chasing after the wind to settle for anything less than what God has created and recreated us for in Jesus Christ. -• Jesus is described as the joy of salvation, the bread of life, and the ruler over all creation. -• The speaker encourages the audience to rise up with selfless faith and be part of a revival that will bring about the kingdom of God. -• Singing praises and emboldened faith -• The king of glory coming on the clouds with fire -• Hosanna in the highest, a generation rising up -• Selfless faith and near revival -• Prayer for hearts to be open and love to abound -• God's blessing for the journey of faith -• Benediction and farewell -• Praise and worship of God in times of darkness and suffering -• Trust and confidence in God's goodness and sovereignty -• Theme of "God is not dead" and His presence and power are alive within believers -• Call to revival and the outpouring of love, hope, and healing -• Celebration of God's name and glory \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Palm Sunday Worship Service - Mar 28 2021_transcript.txt b/Palm Sunday Worship Service - Mar 28 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 924b73147d8ada61ddb67544b24670fcc0a9f8fe..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Palm Sunday Worship Service - Mar 28 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2353 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.96] Yeah -[30.00 --> 54.44] This is my worship. This is my offering. In every moment, I withhold nothing. I'm learning to trust you, even when I can't see it. -[54.44 --> 61.88] And even in suffering, I have to believe it. -[63.68 --> 75.82] If you say it's wrong, then I'll say no. If you say release, I'm letting go. If you're in here with me, I'll begin. -[75.82 --> 87.82] And when you say to jump, I'm diving in. If you say be still, then I will wait. If you say to trust, I will obey. -[87.82 --> 98.82] I don't want to follow my own way. I'm done chasing feelings. Spirit, leave me. -[98.82 --> 104.82] Spirit. -[104.82 --> 105.82] Spirit. -[105.82 --> 107.82] Spirit. -[107.82 --> 108.82] Spirit. -[108.82 --> 109.82] Spirit. -[109.82 --> 110.82] Light. -[110.82 --> 111.82] Light. -[111.82 --> 114.60] It felt like a burden. -[114.60 --> 116.22] of what could grasp it. -[116.22 --> 121.88] You took me further, further than I was asking. -[121.88 --> 127.76] Simply to see you, you took me further, further than I was asking. -[127.76 --> 131.76] Simply to see you -[131.76 --> 136.04] You're good enough -[136.04 --> 139.80] My life is an altar -[139.80 --> 143.76] And your fire falls -[143.76 --> 149.62] If you say it's warm then I'll say no -[149.62 --> 153.86] If you say release I'm letting go -[153.86 --> 157.80] If you're in it with me I'll be gay -[157.80 --> 161.92] And when you say to jump I'm diving in -[161.92 --> 166.16] If you say you're still then I will wait -[166.16 --> 170.22] If you say to trust I will obey -[170.22 --> 174.24] Teach me how to follow in your way -[174.24 --> 177.08] I'm done chasing feelings -[177.08 --> 181.70] Spirit need me -[183.86 --> 189.86] Spirit need me -[189.86 --> 197.86] Spirit need me -[197.86 --> 205.86] Spirit need me -[205.86 --> 207.86] Spirit need me -[207.86 --> 213.86] Spirit need me -[213.86 --> 217.86] When all hope is yours -[217.86 --> 221.86] And your word is all I've got -[221.86 --> 225.86] I have to believe -[225.86 --> 229.86] You still bring water from the rise -[229.86 --> 233.86] To satisfy my thirst -[233.86 --> 237.86] To love me at my grace -[237.86 --> 241.86] And even when I don't remember -[241.86 --> 245.86] You remind me of my worth -[245.86 --> 251.86] I don't trust my ways -[251.86 --> 255.86] I'm trading in my thoughts -[255.86 --> 259.86] I lay down everything -[259.86 --> 263.86] Cause you're all that I want -[263.86 --> 265.86] I've landed on my knees -[265.86 --> 267.86] I've landed on my knees -[267.86 --> 269.86] This is the cup you have -[269.86 --> 271.86] For me -[271.86 --> 275.86] And even when it don't make sense -[275.86 --> 277.86] I'm gonna let you -[277.86 --> 279.86] Spirit need me -[279.86 --> 281.86] Spirit -[281.86 --> 283.86] Yeah -[283.86 --> 285.86] I'm gonna let you -[285.86 --> 287.86] Spirit lead -[287.86 --> 289.86] Spirit -[289.86 --> 295.52] I'm gonna let your spirit lead -[295.52 --> 303.76] I'm gonna let your spirit lead -[303.76 --> 308.62] Come on, sing it out -[308.62 --> 311.96] Let your spirit lead -[311.96 --> 319.84] I'm gonna let your spirit lead -[319.86 --> 329.16] I'm gonna let your spirit lead -[329.16 --> 336.46] I'm gonna let your spirit lead -[336.46 --> 340.56] Spirit lead -[340.56 --> 349.84] Spirit break up -[349.84 --> 358.14] Break our world down -[358.14 --> 365.14] Spirit break up -[365.14 --> 371.44] Heaven come down -[371.44 --> 380.44] Spirit break up -[380.44 --> 386.44] Break our world down -[386.44 --> 392.74] Spirit break up -[392.74 --> 399.04] Heaven come down -[399.04 --> 401.04] Our Father -[401.04 --> 407.34] Our Father -[407.34 --> 409.34] Lord of heaven -[409.34 --> 417.64] Sing it -[417.64 --> 418.64] Can you hear it? -[418.64 --> 419.64] The sound of heaven -[419.64 --> 427.94] The sound of heaven -[427.94 --> 429.94] Touching us -[429.94 --> 438.24] King Jesus -[438.24 --> 440.24] You're the name -[440.24 --> 448.54] Shaking up -[448.54 --> 450.54] We're the sound of heaven -[450.54 --> 452.54] We're the sound of heaven -[452.54 --> 460.84] We're the sound of heaven -[460.84 --> 462.84] We're the sound of heaven -[462.84 --> 474.84] We're the sound of heaven -[474.84 --> 483.14] We're the sound of heaven -[483.14 --> 485.14] We're the sound of heaven -[485.14 --> 487.14] We're the sound of heaven -[487.14 --> 497.44] We're the sound of heaven -[497.44 --> 499.44] We're the sound of heaven -[499.44 --> 501.44] We're the sound of heaven -[501.44 --> 511.74] We're the sound of heaven -[511.74 --> 513.74] We're the sound of heaven -[513.74 --> 515.74] We're the sound of heaven -[515.74 --> 524.04] We're the sound of heaven -[524.04 --> 526.04] We're the sound of heaven -[526.04 --> 530.04] We're the sound of heaven -[530.04 --> 553.34] We're the sound of heaven -[553.34 --> 556.44] We're the sound of heaven -[556.44 --> 558.64] We're the sound of heaven -[558.64 --> 562.82] Praise is rising. -[563.82 --> 568.28] Eyes are turning to you. -[570.28 --> 572.66] We turn to you. -[575.40 --> 579.72] Hope is stirring. -[580.64 --> 585.10] Hearts are yearning for you. -[585.10 --> 589.60] We long for you. -[591.00 --> 597.48] Cause when we see you, we find strength to face the day. -[599.82 --> 608.10] In your presence, all our fears are washed away, washed away. -[608.10 --> 616.28] Hosanna, Hosanna. -[616.28 --> 620.48] You are the God who saves us. -[620.48 --> 624.48] Worthy of all our praises. -[624.48 --> 633.12] Hosanna, Hosanna. -[633.12 --> 637.98] Come out your way among us. -[638.36 --> 641.56] We welcome you here, Lord Jesus. -[641.56 --> 654.88] Hear the sound of hearts returning to you. -[656.88 --> 659.02] We turn to you. -[659.02 --> 664.38] Good morning. -[664.62 --> 668.92] It is so wonderful to see those of you that are here in the building with us this morning. -[669.06 --> 671.24] And we welcome all of you at home as well. -[671.72 --> 674.76] We ask you to stand now for our call to worship. -[674.76 --> 690.62] When God appeared on earth in the person of Jesus, most of the world did not recognize him and therefore did not worship him. -[691.14 --> 700.82] Today we ask for faith that will open our eyes to see Jesus for who he is, that we might worship him in truth. -[700.82 --> 709.02] We open our eyes to see his glory. -[709.66 --> 712.66] We open our ears to hear his wisdom. -[713.66 --> 716.40] We open our hands to offer him gifts. -[717.30 --> 719.94] We open our mouths to sing his praises. -[720.90 --> 724.40] We open our hearts to offer him our love. -[725.20 --> 726.36] He is Lord. -[726.36 --> 732.00] Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord. -[734.20 --> 737.16] In heaven and glory in the highest. -[738.68 --> 739.36] Hosanna. -[740.58 --> 742.12] Hosanna in the highest. -[743.00 --> 744.86] Hosanna in the highest heaven. -[746.00 --> 746.72] Hosanna. -[747.20 --> 749.42] You are the God who saves. -[750.74 --> 751.46] Hosanna. -[751.84 --> 754.60] We welcome you here, Lord Jesus. -[754.60 --> 755.16] Hosanna. -[755.16 --> 756.04] Hosanna. -[776.42 --> 780.52] C-P-3 Isha. -[780.52 --> 782.52] is rising -[782.52 --> 784.52] eyes are -[785.16 --> 786.22] turning -[786.22 --> 787.72] to you -[787.72 --> 790.52] we -[790.52 --> 792.52] turn to you -[792.52 --> 796.52] hope -[797.14 --> 798.52] is stirring -[799.36 --> 800.52] hearts -[801.48 --> 802.52] are -[802.52 --> 804.52] yearning for you -[805.18 --> 808.36] we long -[808.36 --> 809.72] for you -[809.72 --> 812.40] cause when -[812.40 --> 814.12] we see you -[814.12 --> 815.90] we find strength -[815.90 --> 818.12] to face the day -[818.12 --> 822.30] in your presence -[822.30 --> 824.58] all our fears -[824.58 --> 826.72] are washed away -[826.72 --> 828.72] washed away -[828.72 --> 830.72] washed away -[830.72 --> 833.72] Hosanna -[834.94 --> 837.72] Hosanna -[837.72 --> 838.88] Hosanna -[838.88 --> 841.74] you are the God -[841.74 --> 843.28] who saves us -[843.28 --> 845.28] worthy of all -[845.28 --> 847.28] our praises -[847.28 --> 849.28] Hosanna -[849.28 --> 851.28] Hosanna -[851.28 --> 853.28] Hosanna -[853.28 --> 857.28] come have your way -[857.28 --> 858.80] come have your way -[858.80 --> 860.82] among us -[860.82 --> 863.04] we welcome you here -[863.04 --> 864.56] Lord Jesus -[864.56 --> 873.68] hear the sound of hearts -[873.68 --> 877.68] returning to you -[877.68 --> 881.68] we turn to you -[881.68 --> 883.68] you -[883.68 --> 888.08] in your kingdom -[888.08 --> 889.36] in your kingdom -[889.36 --> 891.52] broken -[891.52 --> 895.02] lives are made new -[895.02 --> 899.58] you make us new -[899.58 --> 903.98] cause when we see you -[903.98 --> 904.86] we find strength -[904.86 --> 907.98] to face the day -[907.98 --> 911.98] in your presence -[911.98 --> 913.74] all our fears -[913.74 --> 915.66] are washed away -[915.66 --> 917.98] washed away -[917.98 --> 921.38] oh -[921.38 --> 923.38] Hosanna -[923.38 --> 924.38] Hosanna -[924.38 --> 926.38] Hosanna -[926.38 --> 927.38] Hosanna -[927.38 --> 930.14] you are the God -[930.14 --> 932.14] who saves us -[932.14 --> 934.22] worthy of all -[934.22 --> 935.72] our praises -[935.72 --> 938.38] Hosanna -[938.38 --> 939.38] Hosanna -[939.38 --> 940.38] Hosanna -[940.38 --> 941.78] Hosanna -[941.78 --> 943.78] Hosanna -[943.78 --> 945.78] come have your way -[945.78 --> 946.68] come have your way -[946.68 --> 947.78] among us -[947.78 --> 950.78] we welcome you here -[950.78 --> 951.78] Lord Jesus -[951.78 --> 953.78] Hosanna -[953.78 --> 955.78] Hosanna -[955.78 --> 957.78] Hosanna -[957.78 --> 961.18] Hosanna -[961.18 --> 963.18] you are the God -[963.18 --> 965.18] who saves us -[965.18 --> 967.18] worthy of all -[967.18 --> 969.18] our praises -[969.18 --> 973.18] Hosanna -[973.18 --> 975.18] Hosanna -[975.18 --> 977.18] Hosanna -[977.18 --> 979.18] come have your way -[979.18 --> 981.18] among us -[981.18 --> 983.18] we welcome you here -[983.18 --> 985.18] Lord Jesus -[985.18 --> 985.78] Jesus -[985.78 --> 997.78] good morning -[997.78 --> 999.80] as they have already said -[999.80 --> 1000.88] welcome to -[1000.88 --> 1001.96] worship -[1001.96 --> 1002.64] it's so good -[1002.64 --> 1003.90] to be with you -[1003.90 --> 1004.56] all here -[1004.56 --> 1005.28] and with you -[1005.28 --> 1005.78] online -[1005.78 --> 1006.54] thank you for -[1006.54 --> 1008.00] joining with us -[1008.00 --> 1008.62] in worship -[1008.62 --> 1009.52] if you're new here -[1009.52 --> 1010.72] my name is Chris -[1010.72 --> 1012.34] and I'm lead pastor -[1012.34 --> 1012.68] here -[1012.68 --> 1013.94] and for many of -[1013.94 --> 1014.98] for me -[1014.98 --> 1015.78] and for many of you -[1015.78 --> 1016.70] this might be the first time -[1016.70 --> 1017.22] we get to meet -[1017.22 --> 1018.40] given everything that's happened -[1018.40 --> 1019.98] so thank you for being here -[1019.98 --> 1021.00] and worshiping -[1021.00 --> 1021.94] with us -[1021.94 --> 1024.06] just want to give a few -[1024.06 --> 1024.58] announcements -[1024.58 --> 1025.66] before we continue -[1025.66 --> 1026.54] in our worship -[1026.54 --> 1028.14] first of all -[1028.14 --> 1028.82] youth -[1028.82 --> 1029.60] you have -[1029.60 --> 1030.96] 2020 tonight -[1030.96 --> 1032.36] here at church -[1032.36 --> 1032.88] and so -[1032.88 --> 1034.22] please come here -[1034.22 --> 1035.08] for 7 o'clock -[1035.08 --> 1037.02] and you'll have that -[1037.02 --> 1038.04] tonight with pastor Kevin -[1038.04 --> 1039.00] and with your youth leaders -[1039.00 --> 1040.04] and as well -[1040.04 --> 1041.72] real talk -[1041.72 --> 1042.40] is happening -[1042.40 --> 1043.40] tomorrow night -[1043.40 --> 1043.82] and so -[1043.82 --> 1045.62] the pre-service -[1045.62 --> 1046.04] loop -[1046.04 --> 1046.78] had that happening -[1046.78 --> 1047.46] next week -[1047.46 --> 1048.78] that's not the case -[1048.78 --> 1049.76] it is this -[1049.76 --> 1051.16] or this Monday -[1051.16 --> 1052.28] so tomorrow night -[1052.28 --> 1053.30] will be real talk -[1053.30 --> 1053.90] and that's on the -[1053.90 --> 1054.40] YouTubes -[1054.40 --> 1055.38] at 7 o'clock -[1055.38 --> 1056.04] you can join in -[1056.04 --> 1056.56] and check that out -[1056.56 --> 1057.24] if you haven't yet -[1057.24 --> 1058.10] checked that out -[1058.10 --> 1059.00] this thing that -[1059.00 --> 1059.98] pastor Kevin is doing -[1059.98 --> 1061.26] really do encourage you -[1061.26 --> 1061.76] to check it out -[1061.76 --> 1062.52] it's a really neat -[1062.52 --> 1063.20] opportunity -[1063.20 --> 1064.38] also -[1064.38 --> 1065.28] just want to make sure -[1065.28 --> 1066.30] that everyone is aware -[1066.30 --> 1067.34] we are having -[1067.34 --> 1068.82] good Friday services -[1068.82 --> 1070.50] our good Friday service -[1070.50 --> 1071.56] at 7pm -[1071.56 --> 1072.88] that will be live streamed -[1072.88 --> 1073.70] the sign up sheet -[1073.70 --> 1074.96] for attending here -[1074.96 --> 1075.38] in person -[1075.38 --> 1076.18] is already full -[1076.18 --> 1077.50] but that will be -[1077.50 --> 1079.00] Friday at 7pm -[1079.00 --> 1080.46] on YouTube as well -[1080.46 --> 1082.36] and then on Easter Sunday -[1082.36 --> 1083.48] we will also be having -[1083.48 --> 1084.16] two services -[1084.16 --> 1085.68] at 9 and 11 -[1085.68 --> 1086.26] we'll stream -[1086.26 --> 1086.96] the 9 o'clock -[1086.96 --> 1087.86] but those two services -[1087.86 --> 1088.34] are also -[1088.34 --> 1089.26] the sign up sheet -[1089.26 --> 1089.54] for that -[1089.54 --> 1090.44] is also full -[1090.44 --> 1091.48] but as we enter -[1091.48 --> 1092.46] into Holy Week -[1092.46 --> 1094.88] we are offering -[1094.88 --> 1095.52] this -[1095.52 --> 1096.48] and we do encourage -[1096.48 --> 1097.08] you all -[1097.08 --> 1097.72] to worship -[1097.72 --> 1098.32] our God -[1098.32 --> 1098.90] in this way -[1098.90 --> 1099.90] as we gather -[1099.90 --> 1100.70] on Palm Sunday -[1100.70 --> 1101.28] we gather -[1101.28 --> 1102.68] to sing praises -[1102.68 --> 1103.64] to our King -[1103.64 --> 1104.70] because Jesus -[1104.70 --> 1105.94] is here -[1105.94 --> 1107.68] he welcomes us -[1107.68 --> 1108.94] into this place -[1108.94 --> 1109.84] he welcomes you -[1109.84 --> 1110.58] at your homes -[1110.58 --> 1111.54] and around your tables -[1111.54 --> 1112.44] as you come -[1112.44 --> 1113.28] into his presence -[1113.28 --> 1113.70] and so -[1113.70 --> 1115.02] hold out your hands -[1115.02 --> 1115.90] open up your heart -[1115.90 --> 1117.04] receive the greeting -[1117.04 --> 1118.24] of our God -[1118.24 --> 1118.64] and King -[1118.64 --> 1121.18] grace -[1121.18 --> 1122.68] mercy -[1122.68 --> 1124.30] peace to you -[1124.30 --> 1125.44] from God -[1125.44 --> 1125.98] our Father -[1125.98 --> 1127.34] Jesus Christ -[1127.34 --> 1127.92] his Son -[1127.92 --> 1128.82] our Savior -[1128.82 --> 1129.40] and King -[1129.40 --> 1130.46] through the presence -[1130.46 --> 1131.00] and power -[1131.00 --> 1132.32] of the Holy Spirit -[1132.32 --> 1133.92] Amen -[1133.92 --> 1135.18] let's continue -[1135.18 --> 1136.16] worshiping God together -[1136.16 --> 1143.28] please join us -[1143.28 --> 1144.10] in this prayer -[1144.10 --> 1145.26] of Palm Sunday -[1145.26 --> 1145.92] confession -[1145.92 --> 1149.38] blessed are you -[1149.38 --> 1150.42] holy God -[1150.42 --> 1152.34] for in Jesus Christ -[1152.34 --> 1153.88] you came to rule -[1153.88 --> 1154.78] in our lives -[1154.78 --> 1156.84] not as a king -[1156.84 --> 1159.16] but as a humble servant -[1159.16 --> 1160.52] riding on a donkey -[1160.52 --> 1162.50] help us -[1162.50 --> 1163.62] be a people -[1163.62 --> 1164.76] of humility -[1164.76 --> 1167.64] help us -[1167.64 --> 1168.78] be a people -[1168.78 --> 1169.76] of repentance -[1169.76 --> 1172.68] help us -[1172.68 --> 1173.44] be a people -[1173.44 --> 1174.94] of thankfulness -[1174.94 --> 1177.84] enter into our hearts -[1177.84 --> 1178.48] this day -[1178.48 --> 1179.36] with glory -[1179.36 --> 1181.40] that we may greet -[1181.40 --> 1182.26] you with shouts -[1182.26 --> 1183.02] of praise -[1183.02 --> 1184.34] no matter -[1184.34 --> 1185.74] what our circumstance -[1185.74 --> 1187.74] through Christ -[1187.74 --> 1188.68] our Savior -[1188.68 --> 1189.86] Amen -[1189.86 --> 1203.22] love us -[1203.22 --> 1216.22] piano plays softly -[1216.22 --> 1223.70] Father, into your courts I will enter -[1223.70 --> 1229.30] Maker of heaven and earth -[1229.30 --> 1237.32] I tremble in your holy presence -[1237.32 --> 1244.00] Glory, glory in your sanctuary -[1244.00 --> 1249.06] Splendor and majesty, Lord -[1249.06 --> 1257.16] Before you, a life adores you -[1257.16 --> 1261.18] All the earth will declare -[1261.18 --> 1266.68] That your love is everywhere -[1266.68 --> 1272.18] The fields will exalt -[1272.18 --> 1275.18] Fields resound -[1275.18 --> 1282.16] Hear the trees joyful cry -[1282.16 --> 1288.18] Praising you and so will I -[1288.18 --> 1293.34] On whose song I sing -[1293.34 --> 1296.18] Lord, I will glorify -[1296.18 --> 1301.18] And bless your holy name -[1301.18 --> 1316.88] Jesus, Lord of all life and salvation -[1316.88 --> 1321.62] Into your presence we come -[1321.62 --> 1330.64] We worship you, our precious Savior -[1330.64 --> 1337.44] Fill us, fill us with your holy power -[1337.44 --> 1343.10] Set us to claim with your love -[1343.10 --> 1349.12] Till nations all know your glory -[1349.12 --> 1354.12] All the earth will declare -[1354.12 --> 1359.12] That your love is everywhere -[1359.12 --> 1364.12] The fields will exalt -[1364.12 --> 1368.10] Seeds resound -[1368.10 --> 1374.12] Hear the trees joyful cry -[1374.12 --> 1379.12] Praising you and so will I -[1379.12 --> 1384.12] A new song I sing -[1384.12 --> 1390.12] Lord, I will glorify and bless your name -[1390.12 --> 1395.14] Glorify and bless your name -[1395.14 --> 1396.14] Glorify and bless your name -[1396.14 --> 1403.14] Glorify and bless your holy name -[1403.14 --> 1407.14] You may bless you -[1407.14 --> 1423.20] Good morning and welcome to Kids Corner -[1423.20 --> 1425.34] My name is Mr. Mike -[1425.34 --> 1427.42] And it is Palm Sunday -[1427.42 --> 1428.78] And I am super thrilled -[1428.78 --> 1432.42] That there's actually even some kids here in church today -[1432.42 --> 1434.32] So I'm going to give you guys a little wave -[1434.32 --> 1437.02] Of course there's always kids in church -[1437.02 --> 1439.22] But it's Palm Sunday -[1439.22 --> 1443.42] And I think everybody got these special awesome palm branches given to them -[1443.42 --> 1445.36] So kids, let's give that one more wave -[1445.36 --> 1447.80] Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna -[1447.80 --> 1450.18] Right? We get a wave that on Palm Sunday -[1450.18 --> 1452.12] Do you guys know what that means? -[1452.58 --> 1453.06] Hosanna -[1453.06 --> 1455.82] It's an ancient word, I think -[1455.82 --> 1457.10] And an ancient tradition -[1457.10 --> 1460.22] That goes way back when to the Middle East -[1460.22 --> 1464.02] But when a triumphant someone would come into the city -[1464.02 --> 1466.32] Or a king or a really important person -[1466.32 --> 1468.52] They would pull out palm branches -[1468.52 --> 1470.54] There was lots of palm trees there -[1470.54 --> 1471.88] In the Middle East -[1471.88 --> 1473.40] And they would lay them on the ground -[1473.40 --> 1475.32] And they would wave them in the streets -[1475.32 --> 1476.28] Like a big parade -[1476.28 --> 1479.36] And have a big celebration using palm branches -[1479.36 --> 1481.94] So I'm celebrating today with palm branches -[1481.94 --> 1484.38] I even wore my palm tree shirt -[1484.38 --> 1488.30] And we are going to celebrate Palm Sunday all day at my house -[1488.30 --> 1489.24] And I hope you will too -[1489.24 --> 1493.60] And before we get going further into today's story -[1493.60 --> 1495.96] That kind of has a little bit to do with Palm Sunday -[1495.96 --> 1497.98] We have our memory work -[1497.98 --> 1501.16] So we've been working on our memory work from Psalm 103 -[1501.16 --> 1505.42] And Owen, Elia, and Caleb are going to help us with that this morning -[1505.42 --> 1533.30] Thanks guys, that was fantastic -[1533.30 --> 1538.50] Today's story is a little bit of a follow-up from last week -[1538.50 --> 1543.80] So last week Mr. Eric talked to us about Jesus in the garden -[1543.80 --> 1548.50] And Eden Lohbert helped us explain what that story all meant -[1548.50 --> 1550.20] And some of the things that happened there -[1550.20 --> 1554.92] And we remember that Jesus, his friends kind of let him down in the garden -[1554.92 --> 1558.48] And now Jesus has been taken by the soldiers -[1558.48 --> 1561.32] And I think he's preparing to go to the cross -[1561.32 --> 1564.66] But here was a big moment too that happened -[1564.66 --> 1566.72] Just before he went to the cross -[1566.72 --> 1570.46] When Peter had a discussion with someone -[1570.46 --> 1573.42] I guess in the city waiting -[1573.42 --> 1576.66] For some of the big events to keep happening -[1576.66 --> 1579.86] So this story is called Peter Denies Jesus -[1579.86 --> 1581.78] And it's found in Luke 22 -[1581.78 --> 1584.34] And also I believe in Matthew 26 -[1584.34 --> 1589.86] Peter denies Jesus -[1589.86 --> 1596.16] Soldiers dragged Jesus through the streets to Jerusalem's leaders -[1596.16 --> 1597.96] Are you the son of God? -[1598.16 --> 1598.96] They asked -[1598.96 --> 1601.38] I am, Jesus said -[1601.38 --> 1602.40] Liar! -[1603.00 --> 1603.58] They shouted -[1603.58 --> 1606.86] How dare you disrespect God by saying you're his son? -[1607.58 --> 1608.86] They didn't believe him, did they? -[1609.86 --> 1612.90] Soldiers whipped him, beat him, bid on him -[1612.90 --> 1615.22] They made him wear a purple robe -[1615.22 --> 1617.22] And a crown of sharp thorns -[1617.22 --> 1619.08] And they made fun of him -[1619.08 --> 1622.08] Now you look like the king of the Jews -[1622.08 --> 1623.00] They laughed -[1623.00 --> 1626.10] But Jesus hadn't done anything wrong -[1626.10 --> 1627.16] And he knew it -[1627.16 --> 1630.22] This was all part of God's plan -[1630.22 --> 1633.20] When the soldiers came -[1633.20 --> 1635.64] Some of Jesus' disciples were afraid -[1635.64 --> 1636.82] And ran away -[1636.82 --> 1639.46] Others, like Peter -[1639.46 --> 1642.18] Hung around to hear what was happening -[1642.18 --> 1644.82] Peter was warming himself by a fire -[1644.82 --> 1647.08] When a servant girl asked him -[1647.08 --> 1650.50] Aren't you one of those guys who was with Jesus? -[1651.50 --> 1653.48] No, Peter said -[1653.48 --> 1654.26] It wasn't me -[1654.26 --> 1656.32] Another girl asked -[1656.32 --> 1658.64] Are you sure you look like him? -[1659.50 --> 1661.50] It wasn't me, Peter said -[1661.50 --> 1663.50] More people came up -[1663.50 --> 1665.84] We're sure you're that guy -[1665.84 --> 1669.22] I don't know Jesus -[1669.22 --> 1670.70] Peter lied -[1670.70 --> 1672.66] I've never known Jesus -[1672.66 --> 1675.16] Then the rooster crowed -[1675.72 --> 1676.34] Caw -[1676.34 --> 1678.62] And Peter ran away -[1678.62 --> 1680.10] And cried and cried -[1680.10 --> 1683.22] Right up until this moment -[1683.22 --> 1685.78] Peter had been with Jesus all that time -[1685.78 --> 1688.08] And he abandoned Jesus in the garden -[1688.08 --> 1690.50] And Jesus had actually predicted -[1690.50 --> 1691.74] And said to Peter -[1691.74 --> 1693.10] You're going to do this -[1693.10 --> 1694.16] You're going to deny me -[1694.16 --> 1695.60] And it came true, right? -[1697.02 --> 1699.14] I wonder how Peter felt that day -[1699.14 --> 1701.38] Especially afterwards -[1701.38 --> 1702.86] It says he cried and cried -[1702.86 --> 1705.32] He must have been so embarrassed -[1705.32 --> 1706.28] In that moment -[1706.28 --> 1708.94] And I don't know why he felt that way -[1708.94 --> 1709.98] And we weren't there maybe -[1709.98 --> 1712.38] But sometimes -[1712.38 --> 1713.66] Do we have that sometimes? -[1714.14 --> 1715.28] Or sometimes we embarrassed -[1715.28 --> 1716.92] That we're Christians -[1716.92 --> 1718.62] Or embarrassed that we're -[1718.62 --> 1721.38] Waving our awesome palm branches around -[1721.38 --> 1723.10] When we should be celebrating Jesus -[1723.10 --> 1726.64] Maybe there's like a kid in your class -[1726.64 --> 1727.86] That doesn't really know Jesus -[1727.86 --> 1728.92] Or thinks it's kind of silly -[1728.92 --> 1729.80] That you go to church -[1729.80 --> 1732.74] Or maybe you're on the soccer team -[1732.74 --> 1734.18] And some kids kind of think -[1734.18 --> 1736.04] It's funny that you pray before dinner -[1736.04 --> 1738.12] Or maybe you even have a cousin -[1738.12 --> 1739.24] Or an uncle and aunt -[1739.24 --> 1741.14] Who think all of that -[1741.14 --> 1742.80] Is just silly believing business -[1742.80 --> 1744.86] And sometimes you want to pretend -[1744.86 --> 1745.92] Like you're not a Christian -[1745.92 --> 1746.90] And it doesn't matter -[1746.90 --> 1750.56] But I know when Peter did this -[1750.56 --> 1752.98] Jesus felt really sad about it -[1752.98 --> 1754.96] And God feels really sad -[1754.96 --> 1756.38] When we don't acknowledge him -[1756.38 --> 1758.90] So I have a question for you guys -[1758.90 --> 1760.98] Do you guys know one of the big -[1760.98 --> 1762.34] This is getting really crazy now -[1762.34 --> 1762.78] This question -[1762.78 --> 1764.88] Do you know one of the big reasons -[1764.88 --> 1766.76] Why God created you? -[1768.08 --> 1769.56] He created us -[1769.56 --> 1771.06] To worship him -[1771.06 --> 1773.20] And days like Palm Sunday -[1773.20 --> 1774.90] Where we get to scream Hosanna -[1774.90 --> 1775.74] And praise him -[1775.74 --> 1778.38] And be excited to be followers of him -[1778.38 --> 1779.74] Are a big deal -[1779.74 --> 1782.30] So let's think of -[1782.30 --> 1783.84] What are ways that we worship God? -[1783.92 --> 1785.28] Maybe we don't always have to have -[1785.28 --> 1786.64] Palm branches with us -[1786.64 --> 1787.70] And bring that to dinner -[1787.70 --> 1788.38] And to school -[1788.38 --> 1789.66] And to soccer practice -[1789.66 --> 1791.60] But what are some awesome ways -[1791.60 --> 1792.94] That we can say Hosanna -[1792.94 --> 1793.88] In our hearts -[1793.88 --> 1795.54] Throughout the week? -[1796.02 --> 1796.90] Let's think of a few -[1796.90 --> 1799.98] Well for sure -[1799.98 --> 1800.88] We come to church -[1800.88 --> 1801.82] On Sundays right -[1801.82 --> 1803.64] And we sing praises to God -[1803.64 --> 1804.82] And we pray together -[1804.82 --> 1805.96] And read our Bibles together -[1805.96 --> 1808.38] I think another really good one -[1808.38 --> 1810.22] Is having devotion times -[1810.22 --> 1810.92] With our family -[1810.92 --> 1811.34] Right? -[1811.54 --> 1813.38] We learn about Jesus -[1813.38 --> 1815.16] Maybe some of you guys -[1815.16 --> 1816.14] Pray before you go to bed -[1816.14 --> 1817.70] And you ask God to protect you -[1817.70 --> 1818.72] And you worship him -[1818.72 --> 1819.48] And say thank you -[1819.48 --> 1820.36] For all the wonderful things -[1820.36 --> 1821.16] He's done in the day -[1821.16 --> 1823.34] Even the little things -[1823.34 --> 1825.30] Like being extra kind -[1825.30 --> 1826.40] To someone at school -[1826.40 --> 1827.90] Or inviting the kid -[1827.90 --> 1828.92] Who doesn't always get picked -[1828.92 --> 1829.60] For sports -[1829.60 --> 1831.46] Those are all awesome ways -[1831.46 --> 1832.74] That we can say Hosanna -[1832.74 --> 1834.44] In a different kind of way -[1834.44 --> 1835.52] That doesn't always involve -[1835.52 --> 1836.14] Palm branches -[1836.14 --> 1837.84] But does involve -[1837.84 --> 1839.16] Glorifying God -[1839.16 --> 1842.26] So think about that today -[1842.26 --> 1844.02] As you keep celebrating -[1844.02 --> 1844.76] Palm Sunday -[1844.76 --> 1845.76] Maybe take some time -[1845.76 --> 1846.66] With your mom and dad -[1846.66 --> 1847.96] Or your brothers and sisters -[1847.96 --> 1848.74] Or grandma and grandpa -[1848.74 --> 1850.28] Whoever you're hanging out with today -[1850.28 --> 1851.86] And think what are some -[1851.86 --> 1852.92] Interesting different ways -[1852.92 --> 1853.98] We worship God -[1853.98 --> 1855.36] That are more than just -[1855.36 --> 1856.28] Waving palm branches -[1856.28 --> 1857.28] And saying Hosanna -[1857.28 --> 1859.54] Let's pray together -[1859.54 --> 1863.82] Heavenly Father -[1863.82 --> 1864.84] We thank you so much -[1864.84 --> 1866.02] For awesome days like today -[1866.02 --> 1867.72] Where we can worship you -[1867.72 --> 1870.30] And sing Hosanna -[1870.30 --> 1871.48] And worship your name -[1871.48 --> 1873.16] And we pray for those moments -[1873.16 --> 1873.94] When maybe we feel -[1873.94 --> 1874.78] A little bit silly -[1874.78 --> 1875.88] That we're a Christian -[1875.88 --> 1876.64] When some people -[1876.64 --> 1877.42] Don't understand -[1877.42 --> 1878.30] Where we're coming from -[1878.30 --> 1879.02] Or understand -[1879.02 --> 1879.90] What our beliefs are -[1879.90 --> 1880.90] We pray that we would -[1880.90 --> 1881.54] Have patience -[1881.54 --> 1882.66] And that we would -[1882.66 --> 1884.70] Feel the words -[1884.70 --> 1885.72] To share the love -[1885.72 --> 1886.50] That you have for us -[1886.50 --> 1887.72] In your name -[1887.72 --> 1888.32] Amen -[1888.32 --> 1890.88] See you next week -[1890.88 --> 1900.24] Yeah -[1900.24 --> 1901.60] My name is Paul -[1901.60 --> 1902.86] And I'm the elder -[1902.86 --> 1903.92] Serving for today -[1903.92 --> 1906.80] Let us continue to worship -[1906.80 --> 1908.94] By giving of our offerings -[1908.94 --> 1910.94] Although we have a small number -[1910.94 --> 1912.10] Here in church today -[1912.10 --> 1913.58] Please continue to give -[1913.58 --> 1914.82] Using the various means -[1914.82 --> 1916.04] Listed in the bulletin -[1916.04 --> 1919.30] Let us give of our first fruits -[1919.30 --> 1921.60] And may these be a sweet fragrance -[1921.60 --> 1922.34] To the Lord -[1922.34 --> 1924.34] Today's offering is for -[1924.34 --> 1925.14] Church budget -[1925.14 --> 1927.42] Of which the needs are ongoing -[1927.42 --> 1928.70] To support our buildings -[1928.70 --> 1930.22] Staff and ministries -[1930.22 --> 1932.70] The special offering this week -[1932.70 --> 1934.74] Is for Cascade Christian Counseling -[1934.74 --> 1936.50] Which offers a caring -[1936.50 --> 1937.96] Faith-based approach -[1937.96 --> 1939.34] To helping people move -[1939.34 --> 1940.74] Towards healing -[1940.74 --> 1941.80] From many diverse -[1941.80 --> 1943.32] Emotional, situational -[1943.32 --> 1945.52] And mental health issues -[1945.52 --> 1948.84] There has been a higher demand -[1948.84 --> 1949.56] For counselling -[1949.56 --> 1951.60] During the current pandemic -[1951.60 --> 1953.78] Cascade Christian Counseling -[1953.78 --> 1955.04] Is located in Surrey -[1955.04 --> 1956.42] And all Christian therapists -[1956.42 --> 1957.66] Have the appropriate -[1957.66 --> 1959.32] Credentials and experience -[1959.32 --> 1960.24] To assist those -[1960.24 --> 1961.42] In need of services -[1961.42 --> 1963.58] Your donations help those -[1963.58 --> 1964.48] Who may not be able -[1964.48 --> 1965.76] To afford private -[1965.76 --> 1966.84] Christian counseling -[1966.84 --> 1968.90] By financially -[1968.90 --> 1969.68] And prayerfully -[1969.68 --> 1971.10] Supporting these individuals -[1971.10 --> 1972.60] We are truly helping -[1972.60 --> 1974.94] To carry each other's burdens -[1974.94 --> 1977.86] See Galatians 6 verse 2 -[1977.86 --> 1980.76] The next week's offering -[1980.76 --> 1982.28] Is for the church budget -[1982.28 --> 1985.30] And for Resonate Global Missions -[1985.30 --> 1988.82] This is a denominational cause -[1988.82 --> 1989.80] And through your support -[1989.80 --> 1990.82] You promote the planning -[1990.82 --> 1991.46] Of churches -[1991.46 --> 1993.12] Campus ministries -[1993.12 --> 1994.86] Training of pastors -[1994.86 --> 1995.38] Members -[1995.38 --> 1996.42] And missionaries -[1996.42 --> 1997.32] The ultimate goal -[1997.32 --> 1998.48] Is to equip churches -[1998.48 --> 1999.68] For global missions -[1999.68 --> 2001.48] Please give generously -[2001.48 --> 2004.12] As the Lord has given to you -[2004.12 --> 2012.92] And now please join me -[2012.92 --> 2014.42] In church family prayer -[2014.42 --> 2019.16] Our Father in heaven -[2019.16 --> 2020.58] It is with joy -[2020.58 --> 2021.86] That you have welcomed us -[2021.86 --> 2023.58] Together in spirit -[2023.58 --> 2025.52] Wherever we may be -[2025.52 --> 2027.12] United by your grace -[2027.12 --> 2028.74] Thank you -[2028.74 --> 2030.02] That we may continue -[2030.02 --> 2030.92] To hear your word -[2030.92 --> 2031.56] Proclaimed -[2031.56 --> 2034.02] Lord we confess -[2034.02 --> 2034.82] That we have not -[2034.82 --> 2035.94] Followed in your ways -[2035.94 --> 2037.40] We have not always -[2037.40 --> 2038.38] Been faithful to you -[2038.38 --> 2039.50] Forgive us Lord -[2039.50 --> 2041.68] Renew your spirit -[2041.68 --> 2042.48] Within us -[2042.48 --> 2045.20] Lord we lift up -[2045.20 --> 2047.38] To you those members -[2047.38 --> 2048.44] Of our church family -[2048.44 --> 2049.64] Are living with difficulties -[2049.64 --> 2052.12] We pray healing -[2052.12 --> 2052.76] For marriages -[2052.76 --> 2053.64] That are strained -[2053.64 --> 2054.28] And the effects -[2054.28 --> 2055.08] That they have -[2055.08 --> 2055.72] On children -[2055.72 --> 2056.80] And families -[2056.80 --> 2060.04] We pray for our elderly members -[2060.04 --> 2061.12] Many who are having -[2061.12 --> 2062.74] Continuing health concerns -[2062.74 --> 2064.76] Ease their worry -[2064.76 --> 2065.76] Visit them -[2065.76 --> 2066.78] With your peace -[2066.78 --> 2069.24] Comfort those -[2069.24 --> 2070.40] Who have lost loved ones -[2070.40 --> 2072.96] Thank you Lord -[2072.96 --> 2074.06] For the gifts of medicine -[2074.06 --> 2075.94] In our health care system -[2075.94 --> 2077.50] Bless the work -[2077.50 --> 2078.22] That they do -[2078.22 --> 2080.86] We ask you Lord -[2080.86 --> 2081.88] To lift up those -[2081.88 --> 2083.18] Who are feeling down -[2083.18 --> 2085.14] Some are experiencing -[2085.14 --> 2086.08] Anxiety -[2086.08 --> 2087.82] Others who find it -[2087.82 --> 2088.58] Hard to function -[2088.58 --> 2089.18] Each day -[2089.18 --> 2090.46] Visit them -[2090.46 --> 2091.18] With your spirit -[2091.18 --> 2093.26] Help them to find joy -[2093.26 --> 2094.26] Help us -[2094.26 --> 2095.10] To encourage -[2095.10 --> 2095.68] One another -[2095.68 --> 2097.34] That your love -[2097.34 --> 2098.32] Would uplift us -[2098.32 --> 2100.62] May the work -[2100.62 --> 2101.72] Of cascade Christian -[2101.72 --> 2102.40] Counseling -[2102.40 --> 2103.00] Be a blessing -[2103.00 --> 2103.82] In our community -[2103.82 --> 2106.58] Guide Pastor Chris -[2106.58 --> 2107.32] With your spirit -[2107.32 --> 2108.44] And may your word -[2108.44 --> 2109.50] Find open hearts -[2109.50 --> 2110.54] And minds -[2110.54 --> 2113.74] Jesus we remember -[2113.74 --> 2114.58] As you descended -[2114.58 --> 2115.74] From the Mount of Olives -[2115.74 --> 2116.70] And entered Jerusalem -[2116.70 --> 2117.76] As a king -[2117.76 --> 2119.50] On a donkey -[2119.50 --> 2120.68] And the people -[2120.68 --> 2121.62] Called out to you -[2121.62 --> 2122.16] Hosanna -[2122.16 --> 2124.20] Only to see you -[2124.20 --> 2125.64] Nailed to the cross -[2125.64 --> 2126.62] Shortly thereafter -[2126.62 --> 2129.22] Only through your death -[2129.22 --> 2129.90] And resurrection -[2129.90 --> 2131.56] May we proclaim joyfully -[2131.56 --> 2132.58] With the psalmist -[2132.58 --> 2134.76] Who may ascend -[2134.76 --> 2136.26] Into the hill of the Lord -[2136.26 --> 2137.34] And who may stand -[2137.34 --> 2138.38] In his holy place -[2138.38 --> 2141.12] He who has a clean hands -[2141.12 --> 2142.18] And a pure heart -[2142.18 --> 2143.48] Who has not lifted up -[2143.48 --> 2144.64] His soul to falsehood -[2144.64 --> 2147.14] And has not sworn deceitfully -[2147.14 --> 2149.50] He shall receive a blessing -[2149.50 --> 2150.18] From the Lord -[2150.18 --> 2150.82] And righteousness -[2150.82 --> 2151.60] From the God -[2151.60 --> 2152.36] Of his salvation -[2152.36 --> 2154.44] This is the generation -[2154.44 --> 2155.62] Of those who seek him -[2155.62 --> 2157.02] Who seek your face -[2157.02 --> 2157.86] Even Jacob -[2157.86 --> 2160.68] Lift up your heads -[2160.68 --> 2161.26] O gates -[2161.26 --> 2162.98] Be lifted up -[2162.98 --> 2163.96] O ancient doors -[2163.96 --> 2166.16] That the king of glory -[2166.16 --> 2166.96] May come in -[2166.96 --> 2168.74] Who is this king of glory? -[2169.40 --> 2170.26] The Lord -[2170.26 --> 2171.86] Strong and mighty -[2171.86 --> 2174.10] The Lord mighty in battle -[2174.10 --> 2175.60] Lift up your heads -[2175.60 --> 2176.20] O gates -[2176.20 --> 2177.52] And lift them up -[2177.52 --> 2178.48] O ancient doors -[2178.48 --> 2179.72] That the king of glory -[2179.72 --> 2180.46] May come in -[2180.46 --> 2182.54] Who is this king of glory? -[2183.54 --> 2184.78] Lord of hosts -[2184.78 --> 2187.38] He is the king of glory -[2187.38 --> 2188.80] Amen -[2188.80 --> 2199.70] We're going to spend some time -[2199.70 --> 2200.30] Together now -[2200.30 --> 2201.50] In God's word -[2201.50 --> 2202.84] And so if you have a bible handy -[2202.84 --> 2203.80] I'm going to encourage you -[2203.80 --> 2205.06] To open that up -[2205.06 --> 2205.90] Or turn that on -[2205.90 --> 2207.46] However you find it -[2207.46 --> 2209.64] We're going to look at -[2209.64 --> 2211.08] Luke 19 -[2211.08 --> 2212.96] It won't surprise anyone -[2212.96 --> 2214.20] The story of Jesus -[2214.20 --> 2215.50] Coming as king -[2215.50 --> 2217.10] Into Jerusalem -[2217.10 --> 2217.78] We're going to read -[2217.78 --> 2219.18] Verse 28 through 40 -[2219.18 --> 2220.62] It will be on the screen -[2220.62 --> 2222.88] Here and on your devices -[2222.88 --> 2223.46] As well -[2223.46 --> 2225.38] But I really do encourage you -[2225.38 --> 2226.06] To have that with you -[2226.06 --> 2226.72] Because we're going to flip -[2226.72 --> 2227.46] In a few places -[2227.46 --> 2228.76] And look at a couple -[2228.76 --> 2229.48] Other texts -[2229.48 --> 2230.70] In the midst of this too -[2230.70 --> 2232.68] God's word -[2232.68 --> 2234.30] Open before us -[2234.30 --> 2235.64] Let's read together -[2235.64 --> 2236.92] Luke 19 -[2236.92 --> 2237.94] Starting at verse 28 -[2237.94 --> 2242.46] After Jesus had said this -[2242.46 --> 2243.94] He went up on ahead -[2243.94 --> 2245.58] Going up to Jerusalem -[2245.58 --> 2248.38] As he approached Bethpage -[2248.38 --> 2249.00] And Bethany -[2249.00 --> 2249.70] At the hill -[2249.70 --> 2251.26] Called the Mount of Olives -[2251.26 --> 2253.26] He sent two of his disciples -[2253.26 --> 2254.24] Saying to them -[2254.24 --> 2256.40] Go to the village -[2256.40 --> 2257.08] Ahead of you -[2257.08 --> 2259.34] And as you enter it -[2259.34 --> 2260.40] You will find a colt -[2260.40 --> 2261.04] Tied there -[2261.04 --> 2262.00] Which no one -[2262.00 --> 2262.84] Has ever ridden -[2262.84 --> 2264.86] Untie it -[2264.86 --> 2265.80] And bring it here -[2265.80 --> 2268.18] If anyone asks you -[2268.18 --> 2269.58] Why are you untying it -[2269.58 --> 2269.86] Say -[2269.86 --> 2271.30] The Lord needs it -[2271.30 --> 2274.40] And those who were sent ahead -[2274.40 --> 2275.52] Went and found it -[2275.52 --> 2277.16] Just as he had told them -[2277.16 --> 2280.02] As they were untying the colt -[2280.02 --> 2281.06] Its owners asked them -[2281.06 --> 2282.62] Why are you untying the colt -[2282.62 --> 2283.90] They replied -[2283.90 --> 2285.62] The Lord needs it -[2285.62 --> 2288.20] They brought it to Jesus -[2288.20 --> 2290.00] Threw their cloaks -[2290.00 --> 2290.80] On the colt -[2290.80 --> 2292.22] And put Jesus on it -[2292.22 --> 2294.14] As he went along -[2294.14 --> 2295.54] People spread their cloaks -[2295.54 --> 2296.14] On the road -[2296.14 --> 2298.26] When he came near -[2298.26 --> 2298.80] To the place -[2298.80 --> 2299.68] Where the road goes -[2299.68 --> 2300.84] Down the Mount of Olives -[2300.84 --> 2301.92] The whole crowd -[2301.92 --> 2302.52] Of disciples -[2302.52 --> 2303.44] Began joyfully -[2303.44 --> 2304.30] To praise God -[2304.30 --> 2305.14] In loud voices -[2305.14 --> 2306.18] For all their miracles -[2306.18 --> 2306.90] They had seen -[2306.90 --> 2308.48] Blessed is the king -[2308.48 --> 2309.64] Who comes in the name -[2309.64 --> 2310.22] Of the Lord -[2310.22 --> 2311.30] Peace in heaven -[2311.30 --> 2313.20] And glory in the highest -[2313.20 --> 2316.12] Some of the Pharisees -[2316.12 --> 2316.74] In the crowd -[2316.74 --> 2317.66] Said to Jesus -[2317.66 --> 2318.68] Teacher -[2318.68 --> 2320.02] Rebuke your disciples -[2320.02 --> 2322.40] I tell you -[2322.40 --> 2323.50] Jesus replied -[2323.50 --> 2325.64] If they keep quiet -[2325.64 --> 2327.04] The stones -[2327.04 --> 2328.36] Will cry out -[2328.36 --> 2330.20] This is the word -[2330.20 --> 2330.64] Of the Lord -[2330.64 --> 2335.32] Now -[2335.32 --> 2337.24] I love -[2337.24 --> 2337.92] This -[2337.92 --> 2339.16] Story -[2339.16 --> 2342.46] In 2018 -[2342.46 --> 2344.16] I had the -[2344.16 --> 2345.04] Unique privilege -[2345.04 --> 2346.54] Of going with -[2346.54 --> 2347.24] A group of -[2347.24 --> 2347.84] Pastors -[2347.84 --> 2349.34] And spouses -[2349.34 --> 2350.32] On a trip -[2350.32 --> 2351.42] To Egypt -[2351.42 --> 2352.32] And Jordan -[2352.32 --> 2353.60] And Israel -[2353.60 --> 2355.72] And early -[2355.72 --> 2356.30] One morning -[2356.30 --> 2357.64] We stood -[2357.64 --> 2358.48] On the top -[2358.48 --> 2359.14] Of the Mount -[2359.14 --> 2359.72] Of Olives -[2359.72 --> 2361.52] And looked out -[2361.52 --> 2362.54] Over Jerusalem -[2362.54 --> 2364.52] Staring at the temple -[2364.52 --> 2365.94] And began -[2365.94 --> 2366.78] Walking -[2366.78 --> 2367.64] Down -[2367.64 --> 2368.48] The hill -[2368.48 --> 2370.02] Into the garden -[2370.02 --> 2370.80] Of Gethsemane -[2370.80 --> 2371.68] And then up -[2371.68 --> 2373.20] Through the sheep's gate -[2373.20 --> 2374.74] In Jerusalem -[2374.74 --> 2376.98] And as we stood -[2376.98 --> 2378.08] On top of -[2378.08 --> 2378.68] The Mount -[2378.68 --> 2379.22] Of Olives -[2379.22 --> 2380.18] As I looked over -[2380.18 --> 2381.50] The city of Jerusalem -[2381.50 --> 2382.36] And the temple there -[2382.36 --> 2383.26] My heart -[2383.26 --> 2384.14] Couldn't help -[2384.14 --> 2385.02] But imagine -[2385.02 --> 2386.04] Palm Sunday -[2386.04 --> 2387.96] That day -[2387.96 --> 2389.12] Two thousand years -[2389.12 --> 2389.52] Before -[2389.52 --> 2391.62] And maybe the stones -[2391.62 --> 2392.56] Along the side -[2392.56 --> 2393.14] Of the road -[2393.14 --> 2395.18] Being those stones -[2395.18 --> 2395.80] That Jesus -[2395.80 --> 2397.06] Spoke about -[2397.06 --> 2398.94] And as we walked -[2398.94 --> 2399.42] Together -[2399.42 --> 2400.50] Down the -[2400.50 --> 2401.30] Mountain -[2401.30 --> 2402.96] Into the valley -[2402.96 --> 2403.66] I couldn't help -[2403.66 --> 2404.26] But imagine -[2404.26 --> 2405.44] Both the crowds -[2405.44 --> 2406.06] Of people -[2406.06 --> 2406.94] Singing praises -[2406.94 --> 2407.46] And shouting -[2407.46 --> 2407.92] Hosanna -[2407.92 --> 2408.90] And I couldn't help -[2408.90 --> 2409.36] But imagine -[2409.36 --> 2409.86] The time -[2409.86 --> 2411.52] Earlier in the gospel -[2411.52 --> 2412.64] Jesus looks over -[2412.64 --> 2413.64] The city of Jerusalem -[2413.64 --> 2414.58] Or thinks of the city -[2414.58 --> 2415.04] Of Jerusalem -[2415.04 --> 2416.76] And he cries out -[2416.76 --> 2418.74] On her behalf -[2418.74 --> 2419.50] Saying how I long -[2419.50 --> 2420.46] To gather you -[2420.46 --> 2421.88] To himself -[2421.88 --> 2423.86] And in that moment -[2423.86 --> 2425.02] I just -[2425.02 --> 2426.10] Wept -[2426.10 --> 2428.38] I stood there -[2428.38 --> 2429.66] And walked -[2429.66 --> 2430.94] Weeping -[2430.94 --> 2432.84] Having encountered -[2432.84 --> 2433.90] This beautiful -[2433.90 --> 2434.76] Experience -[2434.76 --> 2435.72] Of Jesus -[2435.72 --> 2436.94] Made real to me -[2436.94 --> 2437.40] In a way -[2437.40 --> 2437.86] That I -[2437.86 --> 2439.76] Hadn't previously -[2439.76 --> 2441.14] Explored -[2441.14 --> 2443.58] I think part of -[2443.58 --> 2444.22] The reason why -[2444.22 --> 2445.00] That was so moving -[2445.00 --> 2445.76] And so meaningful -[2445.76 --> 2446.18] To me -[2446.18 --> 2446.80] Is because I've -[2446.80 --> 2447.92] Always loved -[2447.92 --> 2449.42] This story -[2449.42 --> 2450.40] I've always -[2450.40 --> 2450.72] Really -[2450.72 --> 2451.66] Had my -[2451.66 --> 2452.24] Imagination -[2452.24 --> 2452.52] And my -[2452.52 --> 2452.70] Heart -[2452.70 --> 2453.22] Sing in -[2453.22 --> 2453.72] This story -[2453.72 --> 2454.06] And I think -[2454.06 --> 2455.02] Part of that -[2455.02 --> 2455.80] Goes even further -[2455.80 --> 2456.50] Back in my -[2456.50 --> 2456.82] History -[2456.82 --> 2457.28] Is that when I -[2457.28 --> 2458.06] Was a kid -[2458.06 --> 2458.64] In elementary -[2458.64 --> 2459.10] School -[2459.10 --> 2460.44] We had someone -[2460.44 --> 2461.08] Come to -[2461.08 --> 2462.00] One of our -[2462.00 --> 2463.22] School chapels -[2463.22 --> 2464.02] And they -[2464.02 --> 2465.32] Told this story -[2465.32 --> 2466.32] From the perspective -[2466.32 --> 2467.34] Of the stone -[2467.34 --> 2469.50] As a poem -[2469.50 --> 2471.36] And for some reason -[2471.36 --> 2471.90] You know how some -[2471.90 --> 2472.60] Things just get in -[2472.60 --> 2472.98] Your head -[2472.98 --> 2473.64] And they immediately -[2473.64 --> 2474.44] Go straight into -[2474.44 --> 2474.98] Your long-term -[2474.98 --> 2475.28] Memory -[2475.28 --> 2475.72] And you have no -[2475.72 --> 2476.20] Idea why -[2476.20 --> 2476.82] That's the case -[2476.82 --> 2478.26] That story -[2478.26 --> 2478.98] And that poem -[2478.98 --> 2479.72] That experience -[2479.72 --> 2480.34] Is one of those -[2480.34 --> 2480.62] Things -[2480.62 --> 2481.30] And ever since -[2481.30 --> 2481.94] Then it's just -[2481.94 --> 2483.18] Sat with me -[2483.18 --> 2484.82] And I've wondered -[2484.82 --> 2485.98] What would it be -[2485.98 --> 2486.48] Like -[2486.48 --> 2489.06] To be a stone -[2489.06 --> 2490.44] Praising -[2490.44 --> 2491.40] Jesus -[2491.40 --> 2492.66] And so three years -[2492.66 --> 2493.08] Ago when I -[2493.08 --> 2493.98] Stood in that -[2493.98 --> 2494.84] Place and looked -[2494.84 --> 2495.56] At the stones -[2495.56 --> 2496.22] On the ground -[2496.22 --> 2497.16] It hit me -[2497.16 --> 2497.96] Again -[2497.96 --> 2500.46] And maybe -[2500.46 --> 2502.20] All of that -[2502.20 --> 2503.20] Is really part -[2503.20 --> 2503.94] Of the same -[2503.94 --> 2504.66] Reality -[2504.66 --> 2506.60] Maybe all of that -[2506.60 --> 2507.28] Is really part -[2507.28 --> 2507.92] Of the same -[2507.92 --> 2509.02] Story -[2509.02 --> 2510.80] Because I think -[2510.80 --> 2511.56] What Luke -[2511.56 --> 2512.58] Wants us to see -[2512.58 --> 2513.34] In this text -[2513.34 --> 2513.88] And in the very -[2513.88 --> 2515.14] Particular way -[2515.14 --> 2516.18] He tells it -[2516.18 --> 2517.50] Is that having -[2517.50 --> 2518.70] Jesus as the -[2518.70 --> 2519.68] Glorious king -[2519.68 --> 2520.54] Of your life -[2520.54 --> 2521.74] Is what you -[2521.74 --> 2522.86] Were created for -[2522.86 --> 2525.46] Anything less -[2525.46 --> 2526.96] Isn't enough -[2526.96 --> 2529.58] Jesus says -[2529.58 --> 2531.40] If they keep -[2531.40 --> 2531.92] Quiet -[2531.92 --> 2533.48] The stones -[2533.48 --> 2534.80] Will cry out -[2534.80 --> 2537.58] Why is that -[2537.58 --> 2540.12] Because the -[2540.12 --> 2540.62] Universe -[2540.62 --> 2542.42] As Mr. -[2542.50 --> 2542.76] Mike -[2542.76 --> 2543.52] Has already -[2543.52 --> 2543.90] Said -[2543.90 --> 2545.26] Was created -[2545.26 --> 2546.92] For the praise -[2546.92 --> 2547.76] Of -[2547.76 --> 2548.54] Jesus -[2548.54 --> 2549.56] Christ -[2549.56 --> 2550.32] Right -[2550.32 --> 2551.24] You exist -[2551.24 --> 2552.20] We exist -[2552.20 --> 2553.04] This building -[2553.04 --> 2553.90] Exists -[2553.90 --> 2554.86] For the praise -[2554.86 --> 2555.32] Of Jesus -[2555.32 --> 2555.94] And if we -[2555.94 --> 2556.72] Don't do it -[2556.72 --> 2557.90] The stones -[2557.90 --> 2558.48] Are going to -[2558.48 --> 2559.30] Get that glory -[2559.30 --> 2563.14] But here's -[2563.14 --> 2564.24] The problem -[2564.24 --> 2565.16] At least it's -[2565.16 --> 2565.72] My problem -[2565.72 --> 2566.12] And I -[2566.12 --> 2567.92] Imagine it's -[2567.92 --> 2568.36] Yours too -[2568.36 --> 2570.24] I spend -[2570.24 --> 2571.12] Most of my -[2571.12 --> 2571.60] Life -[2571.60 --> 2573.02] In praise -[2573.02 --> 2573.70] Of self -[2573.70 --> 2575.96] For most of us -[2575.96 --> 2577.24] Everything we do -[2577.24 --> 2578.22] We do for we -[2578.22 --> 2579.24] Right -[2579.24 --> 2580.26] Everything you do -[2580.26 --> 2581.32] You do for you -[2581.32 --> 2582.48] I make my life -[2582.48 --> 2583.56] All about me -[2583.56 --> 2586.58] What is grumbling -[2586.58 --> 2588.70] But complaining -[2588.70 --> 2589.42] About someone -[2589.42 --> 2590.24] Or something -[2590.24 --> 2590.96] Not meeting -[2590.96 --> 2591.66] My needs -[2591.66 --> 2594.22] What is pride -[2594.22 --> 2595.32] Right -[2595.32 --> 2595.62] It's the -[2595.62 --> 2596.50] The presumption -[2596.50 --> 2597.14] Of self -[2597.14 --> 2597.86] It's boasting -[2597.86 --> 2599.02] In yourself -[2599.02 --> 2599.74] In your ability -[2599.74 --> 2600.60] In your achievement -[2600.60 --> 2603.48] What is selfishness -[2603.48 --> 2604.80] But the idea -[2604.80 --> 2605.60] That I get to -[2605.60 --> 2606.60] Define myself -[2606.60 --> 2607.24] And I get to -[2607.24 --> 2607.98] Decide how -[2607.98 --> 2608.68] I will live -[2608.68 --> 2609.42] And you have -[2609.42 --> 2609.96] To let me -[2609.96 --> 2610.54] Do that -[2610.54 --> 2612.42] That way of -[2612.42 --> 2612.78] Thinking is -[2612.78 --> 2613.90] Pervasive in our -[2613.90 --> 2614.64] World and culture -[2614.64 --> 2615.00] Today -[2615.00 --> 2616.24] Especially when it -[2616.24 --> 2616.82] Comes to things -[2616.82 --> 2618.00] Like sexual identity -[2618.00 --> 2620.86] Or even more -[2620.86 --> 2621.68] Insidious -[2621.68 --> 2623.06] For this way -[2623.06 --> 2623.64] Of being -[2623.64 --> 2623.94] Right -[2623.94 --> 2625.16] Is victimization -[2625.16 --> 2626.04] Or more accurately -[2626.04 --> 2627.62] Self-victimization -[2627.62 --> 2627.84] Right -[2627.84 --> 2629.12] That nobody loves me -[2629.12 --> 2630.08] That everybody -[2630.08 --> 2631.10] Is against me -[2631.10 --> 2633.24] We make it -[2633.24 --> 2633.92] About me -[2633.92 --> 2635.68] And when you -[2635.68 --> 2636.40] Live for the -[2636.40 --> 2637.56] Praise of self -[2637.56 --> 2638.60] You are handing -[2638.60 --> 2639.68] The glory that -[2639.68 --> 2640.66] Belongs to Jesus -[2640.66 --> 2641.44] To another -[2641.44 --> 2643.50] You're taking it -[2643.50 --> 2644.02] On yourself -[2644.02 --> 2646.38] And in the end -[2646.38 --> 2646.92] Right -[2646.92 --> 2647.42] What the Bible -[2647.42 --> 2648.28] Tells us over -[2648.28 --> 2648.70] And over -[2648.70 --> 2649.32] From beginning -[2649.32 --> 2650.22] To the end -[2650.22 --> 2650.98] Is that Jesus -[2650.98 --> 2652.42] Won't abide that -[2652.42 --> 2652.86] Right -[2652.86 --> 2654.04] He will be praised -[2654.04 --> 2655.36] He is most worthy -[2655.36 --> 2656.34] To be praised -[2656.34 --> 2657.50] Worthy is the Lamb -[2657.50 --> 2658.40] Who was slain -[2658.40 --> 2659.52] To receive power -[2659.52 --> 2660.16] And wealth -[2660.16 --> 2660.86] And wisdom -[2660.86 --> 2661.52] And strength -[2661.52 --> 2662.06] And honor -[2662.06 --> 2662.72] And glory -[2662.72 --> 2663.32] And praise -[2663.32 --> 2664.92] You are worthy -[2664.92 --> 2665.88] Say the angels -[2665.88 --> 2666.82] Oh Lord and God -[2666.82 --> 2667.76] To receive glory -[2667.76 --> 2668.50] And power -[2668.50 --> 2669.40] Honor -[2669.40 --> 2670.62] For you created -[2670.62 --> 2671.36] All things -[2671.36 --> 2672.58] And by your will -[2672.58 --> 2673.44] They were created -[2673.44 --> 2674.52] And have their being -[2674.52 --> 2676.30] If you keep quiet -[2676.30 --> 2678.36] The stones -[2678.36 --> 2679.88] Will cry out -[2679.88 --> 2682.98] All throughout the Bible -[2682.98 --> 2684.16] This rings true -[2684.16 --> 2686.18] Isaiah 55 -[2686.18 --> 2687.56] Is one of my favorite chapters -[2687.56 --> 2688.28] In all of the Bible -[2688.28 --> 2689.18] And there in verse 12 -[2689.18 --> 2689.60] It says -[2689.60 --> 2690.90] You will go out -[2690.90 --> 2691.60] In joy -[2691.60 --> 2692.76] And be led forth -[2692.76 --> 2693.42] In peace -[2693.42 --> 2694.26] The mountains -[2694.26 --> 2694.96] And the hills -[2694.96 --> 2696.48] Burst into song -[2696.48 --> 2697.06] Before you -[2697.06 --> 2698.58] And all the trees -[2698.58 --> 2699.60] Of the field -[2699.60 --> 2701.16] Will clap their hands -[2701.16 --> 2703.06] Psalm 96 -[2703.06 --> 2704.04] Same thing -[2704.04 --> 2705.44] Let the heavens rejoice -[2705.44 --> 2706.60] Let the earth be glad -[2706.60 --> 2707.98] Let the sea resound -[2707.98 --> 2709.00] And all that is in it -[2709.00 --> 2710.54] Let the fields -[2710.54 --> 2711.36] Be jubilant -[2711.36 --> 2712.96] And everything in them -[2712.96 --> 2715.30] Then -[2715.30 --> 2717.14] All the trees -[2717.14 --> 2718.24] Of the forest -[2718.24 --> 2719.46] Will sing for joy -[2719.46 --> 2720.40] They will sing -[2720.40 --> 2721.18] Before the Lord -[2721.18 --> 2722.06] For he comes -[2722.06 --> 2723.40] He comes to judge the earth -[2723.40 --> 2724.06] And he will judge -[2724.06 --> 2725.22] The world in righteousness -[2725.22 --> 2727.48] And the peoples in truth -[2727.48 --> 2728.80] There is a rich -[2728.80 --> 2730.76] Biblical tradition -[2730.76 --> 2733.96] Of generally inanimate things -[2733.96 --> 2736.22] Becoming intensely animate -[2736.22 --> 2737.98] In praise of God -[2737.98 --> 2739.04] Right? -[2739.08 --> 2739.82] Things like trees -[2739.82 --> 2740.46] And stones -[2740.46 --> 2741.00] And mountains -[2741.00 --> 2741.54] And seas -[2741.54 --> 2742.92] All bear witness -[2742.92 --> 2744.00] To the glory -[2744.00 --> 2744.94] Of God -[2744.94 --> 2747.44] And what's happening here -[2747.44 --> 2748.70] On Palm Sunday -[2748.70 --> 2750.68] Is in the same vein -[2750.68 --> 2751.66] Of Isaiah -[2751.66 --> 2753.08] And the Psalms -[2753.08 --> 2753.88] Right? -[2753.98 --> 2754.42] God -[2754.42 --> 2755.28] In Christ -[2755.28 --> 2755.94] Jesus -[2755.94 --> 2757.20] Is being given -[2757.20 --> 2758.02] Glory -[2758.02 --> 2759.24] Luke is telling us -[2759.24 --> 2760.02] That Jesus -[2760.02 --> 2762.12] Is worthy of praise -[2762.12 --> 2763.18] So much so -[2763.18 --> 2764.08] That if the people -[2764.08 --> 2765.02] Don't give it -[2765.02 --> 2765.46] If the people -[2765.46 --> 2766.12] Don't cry out -[2766.12 --> 2767.04] The stones -[2767.04 --> 2768.54] On which they stand -[2768.54 --> 2768.90] Will -[2768.90 --> 2771.56] And so -[2771.56 --> 2774.48] What does that mean -[2774.48 --> 2775.96] For our life -[2775.96 --> 2777.04] And our worship -[2777.04 --> 2778.00] Right now? -[2778.00 --> 2780.62] Major theme -[2780.62 --> 2781.58] Of Luke's gospel -[2781.58 --> 2782.62] If we were to trace -[2782.62 --> 2783.54] Out the whole thing -[2783.54 --> 2785.04] Is God's plan -[2785.04 --> 2785.82] For salvation -[2785.82 --> 2787.12] Being particularly -[2787.12 --> 2788.84] Fulfilled in Jesus -[2788.84 --> 2790.66] And for Luke -[2790.66 --> 2791.34] The fulfillment -[2791.34 --> 2792.56] Of God's plan -[2792.56 --> 2793.30] For salvation -[2793.30 --> 2794.86] Doesn't only occur -[2794.86 --> 2795.92] On the cross -[2795.92 --> 2796.34] Yes -[2796.34 --> 2797.30] That's absolutely true -[2797.30 --> 2798.18] It culminates -[2798.18 --> 2798.86] On the cross -[2798.86 --> 2799.64] And with the resurrection -[2799.64 --> 2800.32] And the ascension -[2800.32 --> 2800.76] Of Jesus -[2800.76 --> 2801.94] But the fulfillment -[2801.94 --> 2802.94] Of God's plan -[2802.94 --> 2803.80] For salvation -[2803.80 --> 2805.98] Starts in the incarnation -[2805.98 --> 2809.38] And becomes increasingly extant -[2809.38 --> 2811.34] Or increasingly realized -[2811.34 --> 2812.76] Throughout the entire life -[2812.76 --> 2813.74] Of Jesus -[2813.74 --> 2816.44] Over the ten chapters -[2816.44 --> 2817.38] Previous to where -[2817.38 --> 2818.90] We started reading -[2818.90 --> 2820.76] Luke gives us -[2820.76 --> 2821.96] What is called -[2821.96 --> 2823.16] The travel narrative -[2823.16 --> 2825.26] It's the road -[2825.26 --> 2826.14] To Jerusalem -[2826.14 --> 2827.38] Right? -[2827.42 --> 2827.96] The fulfillment -[2827.96 --> 2828.90] Of God's plan -[2828.90 --> 2829.52] For salvation -[2829.52 --> 2830.04] And actually -[2830.04 --> 2831.26] If you have a Bible handy -[2831.26 --> 2832.34] I want you to see it -[2832.34 --> 2834.26] So flip ten chapters back -[2834.26 --> 2835.46] Go to Luke 9 -[2835.46 --> 2837.62] In your Bible -[2837.62 --> 2839.64] And look at verse 51 -[2839.64 --> 2844.14] Luke 9 verse 51 -[2844.14 --> 2845.56] Luke writes -[2845.56 --> 2847.50] As the time approached -[2847.50 --> 2847.96] For him -[2847.96 --> 2848.58] That's Jesus -[2848.58 --> 2850.30] To be taken up to heaven -[2850.30 --> 2852.72] Jesus resolutely -[2852.72 --> 2855.60] Set out for Jerusalem -[2855.60 --> 2858.16] He resolutely -[2858.16 --> 2860.36] Set out for Jerusalem -[2860.36 --> 2861.70] Literally there in Greek -[2861.70 --> 2862.62] The original language -[2862.62 --> 2863.28] That it was written in -[2863.28 --> 2863.88] It says -[2863.88 --> 2865.26] He set his face -[2865.26 --> 2866.66] To Jerusalem -[2866.66 --> 2868.76] In the gospel of Luke -[2868.76 --> 2871.22] Everything from this point forward -[2871.22 --> 2872.62] From Luke 9 verse 51 -[2872.62 --> 2873.64] Is happening -[2873.64 --> 2875.88] In the shadow of the cross -[2875.88 --> 2879.00] Everything that happens -[2879.00 --> 2880.00] In Jesus' teaching -[2880.00 --> 2880.82] And his interactions -[2880.82 --> 2881.38] With people -[2881.38 --> 2882.30] Is happening -[2882.30 --> 2883.48] In the shadow of the cross -[2883.48 --> 2883.98] Is happening -[2883.98 --> 2885.42] With the cross in view -[2885.42 --> 2886.90] And so Luke uses it -[2886.90 --> 2889.10] To fill up our understanding -[2889.10 --> 2890.36] Of what's taking place -[2890.36 --> 2891.86] In that journey -[2891.86 --> 2892.86] What's taking place -[2892.86 --> 2894.82] On the road to the cross -[2894.82 --> 2896.24] It's all heading that way -[2896.24 --> 2898.10] And the travel narrative -[2898.10 --> 2898.94] That is Jesus -[2898.94 --> 2900.74] Traveling to Jerusalem -[2900.74 --> 2902.02] Ends -[2902.02 --> 2903.90] On Palm Sunday -[2903.90 --> 2907.18] Ends in our text -[2907.18 --> 2907.46] Right? -[2907.52 --> 2908.22] This takes place -[2908.22 --> 2908.72] As we said -[2908.72 --> 2909.64] Only one mile -[2909.64 --> 2910.64] From the city -[2910.64 --> 2911.68] Of Jerusalem -[2911.68 --> 2912.90] And so the stage -[2912.90 --> 2914.50] Is set -[2914.50 --> 2917.18] And like any good work -[2917.18 --> 2918.46] Of modern literature -[2918.46 --> 2921.80] Luke has weaved together -[2921.80 --> 2922.80] Innuendo -[2922.80 --> 2923.60] And illusion -[2923.60 --> 2924.76] And he's confused -[2924.76 --> 2925.90] Some people on the way -[2925.90 --> 2926.66] And he's enlightened -[2926.66 --> 2928.02] Others in the journey -[2928.02 --> 2929.10] And immediately -[2929.10 --> 2929.82] At the beginning -[2929.82 --> 2930.56] Of the story -[2930.56 --> 2931.14] That we read -[2931.14 --> 2932.64] Jesus displays -[2932.64 --> 2933.98] This prophetic knowledge -[2933.98 --> 2934.48] Right? -[2934.54 --> 2936.02] Regarding a cult -[2936.02 --> 2937.58] Or a foal -[2937.58 --> 2938.74] A baby donkey -[2938.74 --> 2939.56] Right? -[2939.56 --> 2940.98] That's in the city ahead -[2940.98 --> 2941.66] And as we read -[2941.66 --> 2942.74] The whole exchange -[2942.74 --> 2943.70] Happens exactly -[2943.70 --> 2944.84] Like Jesus said it would -[2944.84 --> 2946.42] And the disciples -[2946.42 --> 2949.18] Return with the foal -[2949.18 --> 2949.90] And they remove -[2949.90 --> 2950.58] Their cloaks -[2950.58 --> 2951.62] Or their outer clothes -[2951.62 --> 2952.80] And they place them -[2952.80 --> 2954.44] On that young donkey's back -[2954.44 --> 2955.62] And they lift Jesus -[2955.62 --> 2956.34] Up on it -[2956.34 --> 2958.68] Now one way -[2958.68 --> 2960.28] That I like to -[2960.28 --> 2961.60] Read the Bible -[2961.60 --> 2963.68] Is by asking -[2963.68 --> 2965.48] Questions of the text -[2965.48 --> 2966.16] Right? -[2966.20 --> 2966.74] I call it -[2966.74 --> 2967.82] Querying the text -[2967.82 --> 2969.28] And so -[2969.28 --> 2970.46] Why does Jesus -[2970.46 --> 2971.56] Need to ride -[2971.56 --> 2972.12] On a donkey -[2972.12 --> 2973.50] Or any animal -[2973.50 --> 2974.36] In this story -[2974.36 --> 2975.06] Why does it matter? -[2975.62 --> 2975.74] Right? -[2975.80 --> 2976.56] Since he started -[2976.56 --> 2977.82] This travel narrative -[2977.82 --> 2978.86] Since he's been -[2978.86 --> 2980.24] On this long journey -[2980.24 --> 2981.54] In the region of Galilee -[2981.54 --> 2982.94] Down through Jericho -[2982.94 --> 2983.96] Up the Jericho Pass -[2983.96 --> 2984.68] Into Jerusalem -[2984.68 --> 2986.20] He has been walking -[2986.20 --> 2987.68] Right? -[2987.72 --> 2988.28] And add to that -[2988.28 --> 2988.84] If you know -[2988.84 --> 2990.40] Your Jewish history here -[2990.40 --> 2992.32] This is Passover week -[2992.32 --> 2993.56] And so -[2993.56 --> 2994.78] Countless -[2994.78 --> 2995.22] Hundreds -[2995.22 --> 2996.38] Thousands of people -[2996.38 --> 2997.38] Are pilgrimaging -[2997.38 --> 2998.48] To Jerusalem -[2998.48 --> 2999.66] They are walking -[2999.66 --> 3000.66] To Jerusalem -[3000.66 --> 3001.56] As part of their -[3001.56 --> 3003.58] Religious festival experience -[3003.58 --> 3004.74] And for those -[3004.74 --> 3006.36] Last parts of that journey -[3006.36 --> 3008.10] Especially that last mile -[3008.10 --> 3009.18] Into the city -[3009.18 --> 3010.00] People would make -[3010.00 --> 3010.58] A point -[3010.58 --> 3011.92] Of walking -[3011.92 --> 3013.24] Right? -[3013.32 --> 3014.44] You slow down -[3014.44 --> 3016.48] You get pensive -[3016.48 --> 3017.92] And introspective -[3017.92 --> 3018.94] As you are approaching -[3018.94 --> 3020.62] The city of God -[3020.62 --> 3022.94] But not Jesus -[3022.94 --> 3024.80] And what does it mean -[3024.80 --> 3025.32] That Luke -[3025.32 --> 3026.18] And the other gospels -[3026.18 --> 3027.66] Include this particular fact -[3027.66 --> 3028.98] That he rode -[3028.98 --> 3030.00] On a donkey -[3030.00 --> 3032.20] And even more -[3032.20 --> 3032.88] Why does it matter -[3032.88 --> 3034.06] That Jesus describes -[3034.06 --> 3034.76] This donkey -[3034.76 --> 3035.90] As a foal -[3035.90 --> 3036.62] One on which -[3036.62 --> 3037.82] No person has ever written -[3037.82 --> 3040.02] And then the big question -[3040.02 --> 3041.02] For the day -[3041.02 --> 3043.20] How does all of this -[3043.20 --> 3044.22] Get us to the point -[3044.22 --> 3045.54] Where even the stones -[3045.54 --> 3046.70] Cry out in praise -[3046.70 --> 3048.36] And so Luke -[3048.36 --> 3049.72] Is very carefully -[3049.72 --> 3051.64] Crafting a story together -[3051.64 --> 3052.24] And he's included -[3052.24 --> 3053.38] All these little signs -[3053.38 --> 3054.24] In the text -[3054.24 --> 3056.04] Now this procession -[3056.04 --> 3056.64] That's happening -[3056.64 --> 3057.44] One mile -[3057.44 --> 3058.74] Outside of Jerusalem -[3058.74 --> 3061.56] Is a royal procession -[3061.56 --> 3064.02] As Luke has worked out -[3064.02 --> 3065.66] His gospel story -[3065.66 --> 3067.04] As he's conveyed to us -[3067.04 --> 3068.50] God's plan for salvation -[3068.50 --> 3069.80] Throughout the gospel -[3069.80 --> 3072.06] Two things have become clear -[3072.06 --> 3072.90] First -[3072.90 --> 3074.14] Humanity -[3074.14 --> 3074.74] We -[3074.74 --> 3076.60] Cannot save ourselves -[3076.60 --> 3078.28] We need a mediator -[3078.28 --> 3079.08] We need a savior -[3079.08 --> 3080.66] In Luke 4 -[3080.66 --> 3081.74] Jesus says -[3081.74 --> 3083.38] The father has sent me -[3083.38 --> 3084.98] To proclaim freedom -[3084.98 --> 3085.80] For the prisoners -[3085.80 --> 3086.86] And recovery of sight -[3086.86 --> 3087.46] For the blind -[3087.46 --> 3088.62] To set the oppressed free -[3088.62 --> 3089.74] To proclaim the year -[3089.74 --> 3090.68] Of the lord's favor -[3090.68 --> 3092.22] In the next chapter -[3092.22 --> 3092.80] Luke 5 -[3092.80 --> 3093.52] Jesus says -[3093.52 --> 3094.44] It's not the healthy -[3094.44 --> 3095.24] Who need a doctor -[3095.24 --> 3095.90] But the sick -[3095.90 --> 3096.74] I have come -[3096.74 --> 3097.82] Not to call the righteous -[3097.82 --> 3098.90] But sinners -[3098.90 --> 3100.10] To repentance -[3100.10 --> 3101.46] Right -[3101.46 --> 3102.42] To Zacchaeus -[3102.42 --> 3103.44] Jesus says -[3103.44 --> 3104.26] The son of man -[3104.26 --> 3105.22] Has come to seek -[3105.22 --> 3105.94] And save -[3105.94 --> 3107.38] The lost -[3107.38 --> 3108.70] Luke tells us -[3108.70 --> 3109.22] That we need -[3109.22 --> 3110.14] A savior -[3110.14 --> 3111.78] And then the second thing -[3111.78 --> 3112.96] That Luke is weaving -[3112.96 --> 3114.26] Into this story -[3114.26 --> 3115.06] Is telling us -[3115.06 --> 3116.46] That we need -[3116.46 --> 3117.24] A mediator -[3117.24 --> 3118.74] Who needs to be human -[3118.74 --> 3119.76] Yes and amen -[3119.76 --> 3120.60] But he also needs -[3120.60 --> 3121.18] To be more -[3121.18 --> 3121.92] Right -[3121.92 --> 3122.54] This mediator -[3122.54 --> 3123.76] Needs to be God -[3123.76 --> 3124.68] He needs to be king -[3124.68 --> 3125.96] Over the entire universe -[3125.96 --> 3126.74] In short -[3126.74 --> 3127.56] What Luke is saying -[3127.56 --> 3128.32] What we're seeing here -[3128.32 --> 3129.44] In this Palm Sunday narrative -[3129.44 --> 3130.30] Is that we need -[3130.30 --> 3131.96] A mediator king -[3131.96 --> 3133.44] Right -[3133.44 --> 3134.14] In this event -[3134.14 --> 3135.18] In Luke 19 -[3135.18 --> 3135.86] Palm Sunday -[3135.86 --> 3136.72] Is simultaneously -[3136.72 --> 3137.78] The pronouncement -[3137.78 --> 3139.76] Of Jesus' royal identity -[3139.76 --> 3141.12] As Messiah -[3141.12 --> 3142.82] And -[3142.82 --> 3146.38] That he would die -[3146.38 --> 3148.02] In our place -[3148.02 --> 3149.26] See the word Messiah -[3149.26 --> 3151.08] Means anointed one -[3151.08 --> 3152.82] And it is both -[3152.82 --> 3153.72] A royal term -[3153.72 --> 3154.94] As you anoint -[3154.94 --> 3155.90] A king with oil -[3155.90 --> 3157.64] And it is -[3157.64 --> 3158.78] A sacrificial term -[3158.78 --> 3160.36] As you pour oil -[3160.36 --> 3161.18] Over the altar -[3161.18 --> 3162.50] In the temple -[3162.50 --> 3165.36] Jesus is -[3165.36 --> 3166.86] Sacrificial -[3166.86 --> 3168.20] King -[3168.20 --> 3170.28] Now in Bible times -[3170.28 --> 3171.34] The king -[3171.34 --> 3172.14] Or the warrior -[3172.14 --> 3172.92] Would ride -[3172.92 --> 3174.40] Into his city -[3174.40 --> 3175.76] After a successful battle -[3175.76 --> 3176.74] On a steed -[3176.74 --> 3177.94] Or a stallion of war -[3177.94 --> 3179.24] With people shouting -[3179.24 --> 3180.18] Shouts of praise -[3180.18 --> 3180.70] Hosanna -[3180.70 --> 3181.94] One of those words -[3181.94 --> 3182.34] Right -[3182.34 --> 3183.80] Jesus comes into the city -[3183.80 --> 3184.88] Riding on an animal -[3184.88 --> 3185.52] As well -[3185.52 --> 3186.50] Yet it's not -[3186.50 --> 3187.42] This dignified -[3187.42 --> 3188.26] War horse -[3188.26 --> 3190.14] It's a donkey -[3190.14 --> 3191.64] A young donkey -[3191.64 --> 3192.42] One that hasn't been -[3192.42 --> 3193.14] Ridden -[3193.14 --> 3193.80] Which means -[3193.80 --> 3194.56] That it is suitable -[3194.56 --> 3195.38] For royal use -[3195.38 --> 3197.04] Because it's a clean animal -[3197.04 --> 3199.02] But it's still a donkey -[3199.02 --> 3201.16] Donkeys are humble -[3201.16 --> 3201.78] And common -[3201.78 --> 3202.68] And unimposing -[3202.68 --> 3203.30] And simple -[3203.30 --> 3204.72] To put it -[3204.72 --> 3205.78] In a way -[3205.78 --> 3206.94] Donkeys are a pain -[3206.94 --> 3207.48] In the donkey -[3207.48 --> 3210.34] On that same trip -[3210.34 --> 3211.44] That I talked about earlier -[3211.44 --> 3213.82] We were in Petra -[3213.82 --> 3214.46] For a day -[3214.46 --> 3215.86] And as we descended -[3215.86 --> 3216.74] Into the crevices -[3216.74 --> 3217.44] Of Petra -[3217.44 --> 3219.90] And spent the day -[3219.90 --> 3220.72] Walking and looking -[3220.72 --> 3221.72] Around and climbing -[3221.72 --> 3222.80] To get out -[3222.80 --> 3223.84] We rode donkeys -[3223.84 --> 3225.92] To climb back out -[3225.92 --> 3227.96] And like I said -[3227.96 --> 3229.54] Donkeys are donkeys -[3229.54 --> 3231.20] They don't listen -[3231.20 --> 3232.28] They didn't do -[3232.28 --> 3233.36] What we tell them to do -[3233.36 --> 3234.44] They would run -[3234.44 --> 3235.12] At one point -[3235.12 --> 3235.54] And then they would -[3235.54 --> 3236.30] Stop at another -[3236.30 --> 3237.26] We had one person -[3237.26 --> 3237.94] Who actually went -[3237.94 --> 3238.78] Off the trail -[3238.78 --> 3239.34] And the donkey -[3239.34 --> 3240.64] Like literally ran them -[3240.64 --> 3241.82] Into the cliff edge -[3241.82 --> 3245.02] But here comes Jesus -[3245.02 --> 3247.14] Riding on a donkey -[3247.14 --> 3249.74] A king would never -[3249.74 --> 3250.80] Ride a donkey -[3250.80 --> 3251.86] To war -[3251.86 --> 3252.74] At least not -[3252.74 --> 3253.40] If you're serious -[3253.40 --> 3254.00] About it -[3254.00 --> 3256.04] But that's Luke's point -[3256.04 --> 3257.54] Right -[3257.54 --> 3258.44] The one who comes -[3258.44 --> 3259.50] Riding on a donkey -[3259.50 --> 3261.10] Isn't about war -[3261.10 --> 3263.06] But about peace -[3263.06 --> 3264.62] And service -[3264.62 --> 3266.92] Jesus is king -[3266.92 --> 3267.86] But he's not a king -[3267.86 --> 3269.48] Like every other king -[3269.48 --> 3270.06] Right -[3270.06 --> 3270.58] There's something -[3270.58 --> 3271.86] Uniquely different -[3271.86 --> 3273.60] About Jesus as king -[3273.60 --> 3274.46] Right -[3274.46 --> 3275.30] This king -[3275.30 --> 3276.28] Comes to bring -[3276.28 --> 3277.04] Peace -[3277.04 --> 3278.08] And not war -[3278.08 --> 3279.62] And look at what Luke -[3279.62 --> 3280.80] Records as people say -[3280.80 --> 3281.02] Right -[3281.02 --> 3281.40] They say -[3281.40 --> 3282.98] Blessed is the king -[3282.98 --> 3284.26] Who comes in the name -[3284.26 --> 3284.80] Of the Lord -[3284.80 --> 3286.00] Peace in heaven -[3286.00 --> 3287.40] And glory in the highest -[3287.40 --> 3289.36] Now that first half -[3289.36 --> 3290.54] Of what they say -[3290.54 --> 3292.30] Is from Psalm 118 -[3292.30 --> 3293.04] Verse 26 -[3293.04 --> 3294.20] Blessed is he -[3294.20 --> 3295.24] Who comes in the name -[3295.24 --> 3295.76] Of the Lord -[3295.76 --> 3296.72] Which is a greeting -[3296.72 --> 3298.06] That people would use -[3298.06 --> 3299.06] When traveling -[3299.06 --> 3300.10] To Jerusalem -[3300.10 --> 3301.80] For the great feasts -[3301.80 --> 3302.68] Like Passover -[3302.68 --> 3304.12] But Luke -[3304.12 --> 3305.14] Puts the title -[3305.14 --> 3305.86] King -[3305.86 --> 3306.74] In there -[3306.74 --> 3307.54] Right -[3307.54 --> 3308.16] And he confirms -[3308.16 --> 3308.54] In that -[3308.54 --> 3309.18] That this is no -[3309.18 --> 3310.66] Ordinary processional -[3310.66 --> 3311.92] Into Jerusalem -[3311.92 --> 3312.72] Rather this is -[3312.72 --> 3313.38] A processional -[3313.38 --> 3314.46] Of the king -[3314.46 --> 3315.68] Coming into -[3315.68 --> 3316.54] The city of God -[3316.54 --> 3318.60] And then the second half -[3318.60 --> 3319.54] Of what is said -[3319.54 --> 3320.32] There by the people -[3320.32 --> 3321.70] Is an inversion -[3321.70 --> 3322.80] Of the words -[3322.80 --> 3323.40] That the angels -[3323.40 --> 3324.86] Spoke over Jesus' birth -[3324.86 --> 3325.72] Right -[3325.72 --> 3326.50] Glory to God -[3326.50 --> 3327.06] In the highest -[3327.06 --> 3328.12] And on earth -[3328.12 --> 3329.16] Peace to men -[3329.16 --> 3331.78] But you notice -[3331.78 --> 3333.28] In Luke's telling -[3333.28 --> 3333.98] Of the story -[3333.98 --> 3334.94] Something uniquely -[3334.94 --> 3335.90] Different -[3335.90 --> 3338.44] In Luke's telling -[3338.44 --> 3339.10] Of the story -[3339.10 --> 3339.94] There's no -[3339.94 --> 3340.84] Hosanna songs -[3340.84 --> 3342.40] There's no palm -[3342.40 --> 3343.32] Branches even -[3343.32 --> 3345.46] And he does that -[3345.46 --> 3346.22] For a purpose -[3346.22 --> 3347.06] Right -[3347.06 --> 3348.00] He's showing us -[3348.00 --> 3349.04] Jesus as a -[3349.04 --> 3349.76] Different kind -[3349.76 --> 3350.50] Of king -[3350.50 --> 3351.38] Hosanna choruses -[3351.38 --> 3352.06] And palm branches -[3352.06 --> 3353.32] Are used in parade -[3353.32 --> 3354.18] Festivals -[3354.18 --> 3354.78] And for kings -[3354.78 --> 3356.10] That have nationalistic -[3356.10 --> 3357.52] And militaristic -[3357.52 --> 3358.56] Overtones -[3358.56 --> 3359.34] And Luke -[3359.34 --> 3360.40] Also in his -[3360.40 --> 3361.22] Telling of the story -[3361.22 --> 3362.20] Excludes references -[3362.20 --> 3363.24] We find in other places -[3363.24 --> 3364.44] To David's throne -[3364.44 --> 3366.12] And to the kind -[3366.12 --> 3367.28] Of king that David was -[3367.28 --> 3368.04] Because if you know -[3368.04 --> 3368.82] Your bible stories -[3368.82 --> 3369.06] Right -[3369.06 --> 3370.22] David is a king -[3370.22 --> 3372.02] Who lived and died -[3372.02 --> 3373.24] By the sword -[3373.24 --> 3375.46] The kingdom of Jesus -[3375.46 --> 3376.58] Is a different -[3376.58 --> 3377.46] Kind of kingdom -[3377.46 --> 3379.76] Instead of palm branches -[3379.76 --> 3380.74] And hosannas -[3380.74 --> 3381.52] The people -[3381.52 --> 3382.90] Actually remove -[3382.90 --> 3383.86] Their garments -[3383.86 --> 3385.10] They remove -[3385.10 --> 3385.84] Their coats -[3385.84 --> 3387.04] And they lay them -[3387.04 --> 3388.84] Out on Jesus' path -[3388.84 --> 3389.36] Right -[3389.36 --> 3390.06] They take their -[3390.06 --> 3391.28] Symbols of power -[3391.28 --> 3392.16] And order -[3392.16 --> 3393.06] And being well -[3393.06 --> 3393.54] Dressed -[3393.54 --> 3394.14] And prim -[3394.14 --> 3394.74] And proper -[3394.74 --> 3395.76] And they lay them -[3395.76 --> 3396.62] At the feet -[3396.62 --> 3397.46] Of the king -[3397.46 --> 3398.08] They take their -[3398.08 --> 3399.00] Symbols of status -[3399.00 --> 3399.82] And power -[3399.82 --> 3400.62] And wealth -[3400.62 --> 3401.60] And they lay them -[3401.60 --> 3402.48] In front of their -[3402.48 --> 3403.80] Mediator king -[3403.80 --> 3404.66] Instead of putting -[3404.66 --> 3405.50] On the trappings -[3405.50 --> 3406.06] Of war -[3406.06 --> 3407.22] People are divesting -[3407.22 --> 3408.60] Themselves of status -[3408.60 --> 3409.52] And power -[3409.52 --> 3410.56] And we see this -[3410.56 --> 3411.22] Over and over -[3411.22 --> 3412.24] In the kingdom -[3412.24 --> 3413.14] That Jesus comes -[3413.14 --> 3414.00] To bring -[3414.00 --> 3415.12] It's kingdom of peace -[3415.12 --> 3416.08] In which all people -[3416.08 --> 3417.54] Are made equal -[3417.54 --> 3418.20] Right -[3418.20 --> 3418.94] There's no more rich -[3418.94 --> 3419.48] Or poor -[3419.48 --> 3420.56] There's no more well fed -[3420.56 --> 3421.24] Or not fed -[3421.24 --> 3422.06] There's no more CEO -[3422.06 --> 3423.16] Or homeless -[3423.16 --> 3424.60] In the kingdom of Jesus -[3424.60 --> 3425.60] Mediator king -[3425.60 --> 3426.62] All are equal -[3426.62 --> 3427.52] All are equal -[3427.52 --> 3429.46] This is the kingdom -[3429.46 --> 3430.08] Of God -[3430.08 --> 3431.34] Inaugurated here -[3431.34 --> 3432.90] In this world -[3432.90 --> 3433.62] With the coming -[3433.62 --> 3435.20] Of our mediator king -[3435.20 --> 3435.70] And yes -[3435.70 --> 3436.54] He is a king -[3436.54 --> 3437.40] And yet -[3437.40 --> 3438.34] This king -[3438.34 --> 3440.14] Came to serve -[3440.14 --> 3441.40] This king -[3441.40 --> 3443.08] Came to die -[3443.08 --> 3445.34] The king of peace -[3445.34 --> 3447.12] Came to bring peace -[3447.12 --> 3447.64] And yet -[3447.64 --> 3448.84] He had to suffer -[3448.84 --> 3451.10] Incalculable violence -[3451.10 --> 3453.66] This mediator king -[3453.66 --> 3454.44] Came to make us -[3454.44 --> 3455.00] All equal -[3455.00 --> 3455.42] And yet -[3455.42 --> 3456.50] He made himself -[3456.50 --> 3457.82] Worthless -[3457.82 --> 3460.40] The prince of peace -[3460.40 --> 3461.92] Was broken -[3461.92 --> 3463.76] For your sake -[3463.76 --> 3466.26] This is the gospel -[3466.26 --> 3468.02] Of Jesus Christ -[3468.02 --> 3469.54] This is the gospel -[3469.54 --> 3470.34] The good news -[3470.34 --> 3471.04] Of God's plan -[3471.04 --> 3471.64] For salvation -[3471.64 --> 3472.58] That Jesus came -[3472.58 --> 3473.54] Into this world -[3473.54 --> 3474.64] And lived the life -[3474.64 --> 3475.32] I should have lived -[3475.32 --> 3476.36] And died the death -[3476.36 --> 3477.52] That I deserved -[3477.52 --> 3478.74] That the king -[3478.74 --> 3479.70] Of everything -[3479.70 --> 3481.16] Became king -[3481.16 --> 3481.82] By becoming -[3482.34 --> 3483.00] Nothing -[3483.00 --> 3486.00] And in holy week -[3486.00 --> 3486.84] And at Easter -[3486.84 --> 3487.94] We remember -[3487.94 --> 3488.70] What it took -[3488.70 --> 3489.80] For the king -[3489.80 --> 3491.58] To make us -[3491.58 --> 3492.48] Kingly -[3492.48 --> 3494.06] We remember -[3494.06 --> 3494.60] What God -[3494.60 --> 3495.38] Had to do -[3495.38 --> 3495.96] For us -[3495.96 --> 3497.42] To be godly -[3497.42 --> 3498.16] We remember -[3498.16 --> 3498.90] That the kingdom -[3498.90 --> 3499.62] Of God -[3499.62 --> 3500.74] Cost God -[3500.74 --> 3501.32] Himself -[3501.32 --> 3504.70] This is the royal -[3504.70 --> 3505.28] Tradition -[3505.28 --> 3507.04] That we enter into -[3507.04 --> 3508.78] As followers -[3508.78 --> 3509.34] Of Jesus -[3509.34 --> 3510.84] As children -[3510.84 --> 3511.68] Of this -[3511.68 --> 3512.56] Kingdom -[3512.56 --> 3513.42] We are heirs -[3513.42 --> 3513.98] Of God -[3513.98 --> 3514.86] And co-heirs -[3514.86 --> 3515.86] With Christ -[3515.86 --> 3516.38] And yes -[3516.38 --> 3516.98] We share -[3516.98 --> 3517.72] In his suffering -[3517.72 --> 3518.62] And in his death -[3518.62 --> 3519.22] And humility -[3519.22 --> 3520.52] But we also share -[3520.52 --> 3521.36] In his joy -[3521.36 --> 3522.38] And his resurrection -[3522.38 --> 3523.52] And his glory -[3523.52 --> 3526.56] He's a -[3526.56 --> 3527.42] Reformed -[3527.42 --> 3528.44] Theologian -[3528.44 --> 3529.16] He's a professor -[3529.16 --> 3530.66] Many years ago -[3530.66 --> 3531.62] At Calvin Seminary -[3531.62 --> 3532.20] Where I attended -[3532.20 --> 3532.66] His name is -[3532.66 --> 3533.62] Louis Burkhoff -[3533.62 --> 3535.16] And he has -[3535.16 --> 3536.08] This beautiful quote -[3536.08 --> 3537.30] He says -[3537.30 --> 3538.32] That Christ's -[3538.32 --> 3539.92] Mediatorial kingship -[3539.92 --> 3541.72] Is his official power -[3541.72 --> 3543.10] To rule all things -[3543.10 --> 3543.60] In heaven -[3543.60 --> 3544.72] And on earth -[3544.72 --> 3546.02] For the glory -[3546.02 --> 3546.68] Of God -[3546.68 --> 3547.92] And for the execution -[3547.92 --> 3549.14] Of God's purpose -[3549.14 --> 3549.98] Of salvation -[3549.98 --> 3550.98] On earth -[3550.98 --> 3552.04] Right -[3552.04 --> 3553.06] Did you catch -[3553.06 --> 3553.76] What Burkhoff -[3553.76 --> 3554.44] Says there -[3554.44 --> 3554.84] Right -[3554.84 --> 3556.22] He's the mediator king -[3556.22 --> 3557.14] Of peace -[3557.14 --> 3558.14] For the sake -[3558.14 --> 3559.42] Of glory -[3559.42 --> 3560.40] For the glory -[3560.40 --> 3560.88] Of God -[3560.88 --> 3561.56] This is why -[3561.56 --> 3562.30] The stones -[3562.30 --> 3563.34] Would have cried out -[3563.34 --> 3564.04] Right -[3564.04 --> 3564.94] The kingdom -[3564.94 --> 3566.08] Already started -[3566.08 --> 3566.64] With Jesus -[3566.64 --> 3567.38] Life, death, -[3567.52 --> 3567.86] Resurrection -[3567.86 --> 3568.92] And exaltation -[3568.92 --> 3570.42] Is a spiritual kingdom -[3570.42 --> 3571.60] That causes all -[3571.60 --> 3572.24] Of creation -[3572.24 --> 3573.48] To cry out -[3573.48 --> 3575.56] It's not about -[3575.56 --> 3576.14] Geography -[3576.14 --> 3577.36] It's not about -[3577.36 --> 3577.74] Borders -[3577.74 --> 3578.70] It's not about -[3578.70 --> 3579.72] Political identity -[3579.72 --> 3580.62] To one group -[3580.62 --> 3581.14] Or party -[3581.14 --> 3581.96] Or another -[3581.96 --> 3582.40] Right -[3582.40 --> 3583.00] Luke uses -[3583.00 --> 3584.50] Very careful language -[3584.50 --> 3586.02] To make that clear -[3586.02 --> 3589.56] The kingdom of God -[3589.56 --> 3590.72] Over which Jesus -[3590.72 --> 3591.82] Is the mediator king -[3591.82 --> 3592.78] Is not particular -[3592.78 --> 3593.70] To the Jews -[3593.70 --> 3594.78] Or to Israel -[3594.78 --> 3596.00] Or to Canadians -[3596.00 --> 3597.06] Or Americans -[3597.06 --> 3597.64] Or any other -[3597.64 --> 3599.02] National or people group -[3599.02 --> 3599.64] It's not about -[3599.64 --> 3600.78] Race or language -[3600.78 --> 3601.34] Or gender -[3601.34 --> 3602.00] Or class -[3602.00 --> 3603.44] Rather the citizens -[3603.44 --> 3604.94] Of the kingdom of God -[3604.94 --> 3606.16] Are the more beautiful -[3606.16 --> 3607.50] Picture of those -[3607.50 --> 3608.96] Who are poor in spirit -[3608.96 --> 3610.22] Of those who are meek -[3610.22 --> 3610.96] And merciful -[3610.96 --> 3611.92] And peacemakers -[3611.92 --> 3612.96] Pure in heart -[3612.96 --> 3614.44] And those who hunger -[3614.44 --> 3615.52] And thirst -[3615.52 --> 3616.78] For righteousness -[3616.78 --> 3619.64] And so in contrast -[3619.64 --> 3620.48] To grumbling -[3620.48 --> 3621.34] Or pride -[3621.34 --> 3622.20] Or selfishness -[3622.20 --> 3623.10] In contrast -[3623.10 --> 3624.32] To self-victimization -[3624.32 --> 3625.86] The gospel of Jesus -[3625.86 --> 3627.04] Transforms you -[3627.04 --> 3628.90] Into something new -[3628.90 --> 3631.44] Instead of grumbling -[3631.44 --> 3632.52] There is worship -[3632.52 --> 3633.32] Of Jesus -[3633.32 --> 3634.46] Instead of pride -[3634.46 --> 3635.38] There is humility -[3635.38 --> 3637.00] For receiving Jesus -[3637.00 --> 3638.84] Instead of selfishness -[3638.84 --> 3640.04] There is selflessness -[3640.04 --> 3641.72] In living for Jesus -[3641.72 --> 3643.12] Instead of self-victimization -[3643.12 --> 3643.86] There is victory -[3643.86 --> 3646.04] With and from Jesus -[3646.04 --> 3648.20] This is the truth -[3648.20 --> 3649.86] For which you were created -[3649.86 --> 3652.32] And for which you have been recreated -[3652.32 --> 3653.68] Anything less -[3653.68 --> 3655.04] Is actually really -[3655.04 --> 3656.18] Nothing at all -[3656.18 --> 3658.64] It's a chasing after the wind -[3658.64 --> 3659.56] To use the image -[3659.56 --> 3660.44] From Ecclesiastes -[3660.44 --> 3661.56] It's a hopelessness -[3661.56 --> 3663.56] It's a never-ending emptiness -[3663.56 --> 3665.04] But Jesus -[3665.04 --> 3667.36] Jesus -[3667.36 --> 3669.10] Is the joy -[3669.10 --> 3670.60] Of salvation -[3670.60 --> 3672.88] He is the bread of life -[3672.88 --> 3674.52] The firstborn over all creation -[3674.52 --> 3676.40] The ruler over all the universe -[3676.40 --> 3678.48] He is before all things -[3678.48 --> 3679.28] And in him -[3679.28 --> 3681.38] All things hold together -[3681.38 --> 3684.78] And when Jesus walked this road -[3684.78 --> 3686.38] The people praised him -[3686.38 --> 3689.00] When I walked that same road -[3689.00 --> 3691.00] I praised him with my tears -[3691.00 --> 3693.28] And this morning -[3693.28 --> 3695.48] As we are about to sing -[3695.48 --> 3698.36] I see a generation -[3698.36 --> 3701.58] Rising up to take their place -[3701.58 --> 3703.06] With selfless faith -[3703.06 --> 3706.26] I see a revival -[3706.26 --> 3707.22] Stirring -[3707.22 --> 3708.26] As we pray -[3708.26 --> 3709.00] And seek -[3709.00 --> 3711.16] And so will you be -[3711.16 --> 3712.32] That generation -[3712.32 --> 3713.44] That rises up -[3713.44 --> 3714.94] Will you be -[3714.94 --> 3715.90] That generation -[3715.90 --> 3716.80] Who doesn't give -[3716.80 --> 3717.64] Our chance -[3717.64 --> 3718.92] Away to the stones -[3718.92 --> 3720.80] Will you be -[3720.80 --> 3721.58] The revival -[3721.58 --> 3722.98] Of the kingdom come -[3722.98 --> 3724.06] And the kingdom coming -[3724.06 --> 3726.30] Having Jesus -[3726.30 --> 3727.52] As the glorious king -[3727.52 --> 3728.16] Of your life -[3728.16 --> 3730.32] Is what you were created for -[3730.32 --> 3733.66] Don't settle for anything less -[3733.66 --> 3735.08] Amen -[3735.08 --> 3737.18] Amen -[3737.18 --> 3739.12] There's finally people here -[3739.12 --> 3739.50] Amen -[3739.50 --> 3740.86] Amen -[3740.86 --> 3741.38] Thank you -[3741.38 --> 3742.14] Let's pray together -[3742.14 --> 3745.64] Lord Jesus -[3745.64 --> 3747.46] You are king -[3747.46 --> 3748.36] And so be -[3748.36 --> 3749.14] Our -[3749.14 --> 3750.14] King -[3750.14 --> 3753.76] You came -[3753.76 --> 3754.40] Lord God -[3754.40 --> 3756.22] Not to be served -[3756.22 --> 3756.86] But to serve -[3756.86 --> 3757.30] And so -[3757.30 --> 3758.26] Cause us -[3758.26 --> 3759.64] To serve -[3759.64 --> 3763.40] You came -[3763.40 --> 3763.96] Lord God -[3763.96 --> 3764.70] That we might -[3764.70 --> 3765.60] Finally have -[3765.60 --> 3766.10] Peace -[3766.10 --> 3767.20] And joy -[3767.20 --> 3768.24] And so make us -[3768.24 --> 3769.00] A people of -[3769.00 --> 3769.40] Peace -[3769.40 --> 3770.08] And joy -[3770.08 --> 3770.94] As we sing -[3770.94 --> 3771.72] Your praises -[3771.72 --> 3772.34] O king -[3772.34 --> 3774.96] May we go -[3774.96 --> 3775.94] From this place -[3775.94 --> 3777.34] Emboldened -[3777.34 --> 3778.16] In our -[3778.16 --> 3779.00] Faith -[3779.00 --> 3780.18] Together -[3780.18 --> 3782.52] Captivate us -[3782.52 --> 3783.34] By your love -[3783.34 --> 3784.46] That we might lead -[3784.46 --> 3785.38] Captivating -[3785.38 --> 3786.24] Lives -[3786.24 --> 3786.94] In the name -[3786.94 --> 3788.00] Of Jesus Christ -[3788.00 --> 3788.58] We pray -[3788.58 --> 3790.22] Amen -[3790.22 --> 3790.26] Amen -[3790.26 --> 3802.12] We invite you to stand -[3802.12 --> 3802.90] Whether you're here -[3802.90 --> 3803.48] Or at home -[3803.48 --> 3818.04] I see the king -[3818.04 --> 3819.64] Of glory -[3819.64 --> 3823.60] Coming on the clouds -[3823.60 --> 3825.34] With fire -[3825.34 --> 3828.34] The whole earth shakes -[3828.34 --> 3831.10] The whole earth shakes -[3831.10 --> 3841.88] I see his love and mercy -[3841.88 --> 3847.50] Watching over all our sin -[3847.50 --> 3850.40] The people sing -[3850.40 --> 3852.34] The people sing -[3852.34 --> 3856.66] Hosanna -[3856.66 --> 3857.36] Hosanna -[3857.36 --> 3857.56] Hosanna -[3857.56 --> 3859.58] Hosanna -[3859.58 --> 3860.88] Hosanna -[3860.88 --> 3861.78] Hosanna -[3861.78 --> 3863.88] In the highest -[3863.88 --> 3866.98] Hosanna -[3866.98 --> 3868.70] Hosanna -[3868.70 --> 3871.46] Hosanna -[3871.46 --> 3873.76] Hosanna -[3873.76 --> 3876.52] In the highest -[3876.52 --> 3885.04] I see a generation -[3885.04 --> 3891.00] Rising up to take their place -[3891.00 --> 3894.10] With selfless faith -[3894.10 --> 3896.76] With selfless faith -[3896.76 --> 3902.32] I see a near revival -[3902.32 --> 3908.36] Starring as we pray and sing -[3908.36 --> 3911.36] They're on our knees -[3911.36 --> 3915.00] They're on our knees -[3915.00 --> 3920.42] Hosanna, Hosanna -[3920.42 --> 3925.00] Hosanna in the highest -[3925.00 --> 3932.12] Hosanna, Hosanna -[3932.12 --> 3938.16] Hosanna in the highest -[3938.16 --> 3952.16] Fill my heart and make it clear -[3952.16 --> 3958.16] Open up my eyes to the things unseen -[3958.16 --> 3963.20] Show me how to love like you -[3963.20 --> 3966.20] Have loved me -[3966.20 --> 3975.20] Break my heart for what breaks yours -[3975.20 --> 3981.24] Everything I am for your kingdom's good -[3981.24 --> 3988.24] As I walk from earth into eternity -[3988.24 --> 3998.24] Hosanna, Hosanna -[3998.24 --> 4008.28] Hosanna, Hosanna -[4008.28 --> 4011.28] Hosanna, Hosanna -[4011.28 --> 4014.28] Hosanna in the highest -[4014.28 --> 4020.28] Hosanna, Hosanna -[4020.28 --> 4030.32] Hosanna, Hosanna -[4030.32 --> 4033.32] Hosanna, Hosanna -[4033.32 --> 4038.32] Hosanna in the highest -[4038.32 --> 4040.32] Hosanna in the highest -[4040.32 --> 4044.36] Hosanna in the highest -[4044.36 --> 4053.36] Hosanna in the highest -[4053.36 --> 4058.36] Hosanna in the highest -[4058.36 --> 4088.34] Hosanna in the highest -[4088.36 --> 4118.34] Hosanna in the highest -[4118.34 --> 4119.38] See Palm Sunday -[4119.38 --> 4120.94] We'll be able to see all that -[4120.94 --> 4122.26] In fact there's already a few people -[4122.26 --> 4122.96] Who have done that -[4122.96 --> 4124.18] And so for those of you who have -[4124.18 --> 4125.20] Thank you for that -[4125.20 --> 4127.96] And take a look over the course of today -[4127.96 --> 4128.90] And these next few days -[4128.90 --> 4131.70] To see what we are sharing in together -[4131.70 --> 4134.46] As you go I invite you to receive -[4134.46 --> 4136.88] God's blessing for the journey of faith -[4136.88 --> 4137.88] May God's blessing for the Lord -[4137.88 --> 4144.66] May God go behind you to guard you -[4144.66 --> 4147.40] May God go beneath you to support you -[4147.40 --> 4150.32] And may God go beside you to befriend you -[4150.32 --> 4152.86] Do not be afraid -[4152.86 --> 4155.60] Let the blessing of God come upon you today -[4155.60 --> 4157.34] Do not be afraid -[4157.34 --> 4163.22] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord -[4163.22 --> 4164.62] Amen -[4164.62 --> 4188.04] Blessed be your name -[4188.04 --> 4192.16] In a land that is plentiful -[4192.16 --> 4196.70] Where your streams of abundance flow -[4196.70 --> 4200.20] Blessed be your name -[4200.20 --> 4205.64] Blessed be your name -[4205.64 --> 4209.94] When I'm found in the desert place -[4209.94 --> 4213.70] Though I walk through the wilderness -[4213.70 --> 4217.36] Blessed be your name -[4217.36 --> 4219.36] Blessed be your name -[4219.36 --> 4223.18] Every blessing you pour out -[4223.18 --> 4228.04] I'll turn back to praise -[4228.04 --> 4232.48] When the darkness closes in, Lord -[4232.48 --> 4235.30] Still I will say -[4235.30 --> 4239.54] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[4239.54 --> 4242.70] Blessed be your name -[4242.70 --> 4243.86] Blessed be your name -[4243.86 --> 4247.72] Blessed be your name -[4247.72 --> 4255.94] Blessed be your name -[4255.94 --> 4257.70] Blessed be your name -[4257.70 --> 4259.84] Blessed be your name -[4259.84 --> 4264.06] When the sun's shining down on me -[4264.06 --> 4268.60] When the world's all as it should be -[4268.60 --> 4271.98] Blessed be your name -[4271.98 --> 4277.22] Blessed be your name -[4277.22 --> 4281.04] On the road marked with suffering -[4281.04 --> 4285.30] Though there's pain in the offering -[4285.30 --> 4288.62] Blessed be your name -[4288.62 --> 4294.50] Every blessing you pour out -[4294.50 --> 4298.46] I'll turn back to praise -[4298.46 --> 4303.60] When the darkness closes in, Lord -[4303.60 --> 4306.42] Still I will say -[4306.42 --> 4310.48] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[4310.48 --> 4313.96] Blessed be your name -[4313.96 --> 4319.00] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[4319.00 --> 4324.32] Blessed be your glorious name -[4324.32 --> 4328.10] Give and take away -[4328.10 --> 4332.24] You give and take away -[4332.24 --> 4337.24] My heart will choose to say -[4337.24 --> 4341.06] Lord, blessed be your name -[4341.06 --> 4345.32] You give and take away -[4345.32 --> 4349.74] You give and take away -[4349.74 --> 4353.88] Your heart will choose to say -[4353.88 --> 4358.88] But blessed be your name -[4358.88 --> 4363.88] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[4363.88 --> 4366.88] Blessed be your name -[4366.88 --> 4373.02] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[4373.02 --> 4377.02] Blessed be your glorious name -[4377.02 --> 4380.84] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[4380.84 --> 4385.24] Let it be your name -[4385.24 --> 4390.66] Let it be the name of the Lord -[4390.66 --> 4394.92] Let it be your glorious name -[4410.84 --> 4437.12] Let love explode and bring the dead to life -[4437.12 --> 4459.04] Let love explode and bring the dead to life -[4459.04 --> 4467.10] Let love explode and bring the dead to life -[4467.12 --> 4473.12] Now I'm lost in your freedom -[4473.12 --> 4481.12] And this world I'll overcome -[4481.12 --> 4485.12] My God's not dead, He's surely alive -[4485.12 --> 4489.12] He's living on the inside, roaring like a lion -[4489.12 --> 4493.12] God's not dead, He's surely alive -[4493.12 --> 4497.12] He's living on the inside, roaring like a lion -[4497.12 --> 4499.12] He's so dead, he's so dead -[4499.12 --> 4503.12] He's roaring like a lion -[4503.12 --> 4511.12] Let hope rise and make the darkness hide -[4511.12 --> 4517.12] My faith is dead, I need a resurrection -[4517.12 --> 4519.12] Somehow -[4519.12 --> 4521.12] Somehow -[4521.12 --> 4527.12] Now I'm lost in your freedom -[4527.12 --> 4533.12] And this world I'll overcome -[4533.12 --> 4537.12] My God's not dead, He's surely alive -[4537.12 --> 4541.12] He's living on the inside, roaring like a lion -[4541.12 --> 4543.12] God's not dead, He's surely alive -[4543.12 --> 4545.12] He's living on the inside, roaring like a lion -[4545.12 --> 4547.12] He's roaring, he's roaring, he's roaring -[4547.12 --> 4559.12] He's roaring, he's roaring -[4559.12 --> 4565.12] Let heaven roar and fire fall -[4565.12 --> 4567.12] Come shake the ground -[4567.12 --> 4569.12] Come shake the ground -[4569.12 --> 4573.12] With the sound of revival -[4573.12 --> 4579.12] Let heaven roar and fire fall -[4579.12 --> 4583.12] Come shake the ground -[4583.12 --> 4587.12] With the sound of revival -[4587.12 --> 4590.10] Let heaven roar and fire fall -[4590.10 --> 4591.04] Come heal, regulations -[4591.04 --> 4595.04] Let heaven roar and fire fall -[4595.12 --> 4597.12] Come shake the ground -[4597.12 --> 4600.90] Come shake the ground -[4600.90 --> 4603.04] Let heaven roar and fire fall -[4603.10 --> 4604.04] Come shake the ground -[4604.04 --> 4605.04] Come shake the ground -[4605.04 --> 4607.04] With the sound of revival -[4607.04 --> 4611.98] You know God's not dead, He's surely alive -[4611.98 --> 4612.06] He's living on the inside, roaring like a lion -[4612.06 --> 4614.44] God's not dead, He's surely alive -[4614.44 --> 4626.44] He's living on the inside, roaring like a lion. God's not there, he's surely alive. He's living on the inside, roaring like a lion. -[4626.44 --> 4648.82] God's not there, he's surely alive. He's living on the inside, roaring like a lion. He's roaring, he's roaring like a lion. diff --git a/Party Preference (Sermon)_summary.txt b/Party Preference (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 7185e36c3b1d30d25ab5ffd5ecd21035036b5a2e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Party Preference (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,30 +0,0 @@ -• Reflection on the impact of COVID-19 restrictions on Christians -• Questioning how Christians can stand out in a world where everything is different due to COVID-19 -• Discussion of James 2, specifically verses 1-13, which emphasize treating all people equally regardless of social status -• Commentary on how Christianity has been softened and changed over time, making it less about holiness and more about comfort and security -• Quotes from various theologians and pastors highlighting the importance of living a life that reflects faith rather than just words. -• James encourages believers not to show favoritism -• Favoritism is connected to loving one's neighbor as oneself -• Loving one's neighbor means valuing others above oneself -• Selfishness and favoritism are closely related -• Philippians 2 teaches humility, considering the interests of others over one's own -• Grumbling and arguing come from selfishness and favoritism -• Favoritism is making judgments based on external appearance and superficial realities -• This behavior is contrary to loving one's neighbor as commanded by James and Jesus -• People often show favoritism without realizing it, even unconsciously -• Judgments are made in a matter of seconds, often based on physical appearance or social status -• Favoritism can lead to assumptions that some people deserve more respect or attention than others -• Christians should treat each other differently and engage in conversations with humility and openness -• Christians must live differently from the world, being distinct in their values and behavior -• Polarization has increased in society, leading to a tendency to isolate oneself within echo chambers -• This isolation makes it harder for people to hear opposing views or perspectives that challenge their comfort zones -• The Bible teaches that showing favoritism is sinful and disrespects others -• Christians are called to live mercifully, rather than judging others -• Through faith in Jesus Christ, believers have been given new life and can live freely under God's law -• Mercy triumphs over judgment in the life of a believer -• The church must be different from the world, demonstrating love and mercy to all people -• The congregation is concerned with being perceived as different from others outside of their church community. -• They acknowledge that they often prioritize comfort and safety over following God's truth. -• The congregation prays for God to send them out as ambassadors of reconciliation and emissaries of His kingdom, to live differently in a world of indifference. -• They ask God to convict those around them through their actions and lives. -• The congregation also asks for God to open their eyes to areas where they have shown favoritism or been selfish. \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Party Preference (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/Party Preference (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 7ec31c6044c960ad4b2940e5dcf6bceb6d4dd56d..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Party Preference (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,313 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.68] as we begin here uh this morning i just want to uh before we jump into the text just take a moment -[6.68 --> 15.20] uh and say to you all here present and to you uh watching happy covidversary uh it has been -[15.20 --> 23.96] one year of covid restrictions and different versions of restrictions and the lockdown and -[23.96 --> 32.64] the like uh and this has been a really strange and weird and hard and trying time for so many of us -[32.64 --> 42.78] for so many different reasons and given that it's been a year now it's given pause for at least me -[42.78 --> 48.54] to reflect and perhaps you as well on what has this year been like -[48.54 --> 57.92] i'm starting to wonder about the question as christians in the world today when everything -[57.92 --> 64.08] else is different because of covid what makes us different -[64.08 --> 72.42] so when everything else is already different and changed how do we as christians stand out -[72.42 --> 77.80] for the glory of god and the revealing of his kingdom come and his kingdom coming -[77.80 --> 88.28] and i think it really begs the question when the world outside of the church when those people -[88.28 --> 94.60] who do not profess to be christian when they look at us as christians what do they see -[94.60 --> 103.16] and in the face of covid and all the anxieties around that do they see peace in the face of -[103.16 --> 107.80] restrictions and ongoing restrictions do they see humility -[107.80 --> 119.80] in the face of hardship and loneliness do they see a community that comes together in unique and -[119.80 --> 126.72] trying and special ways to bring encouragement and life and support when everything is different -[126.72 --> 130.72] what makes us different -[130.72 --> 134.96] and so happy anniversary -[134.96 --> 139.76] think about that question as we come to james -[139.76 --> 143.04] this morning because james -[143.04 --> 146.76] is asking us that very question -[146.76 --> 148.40] what makes you -[148.40 --> 149.60] different -[149.60 --> 153.20] this morning we're going to read from james 2 -[153.20 --> 155.60] we're going to read verse 1 through 13 -[155.60 --> 161.76] really do encourage you to have a bible in your hand or on your phone or whatever device you are using -[161.76 --> 166.96] have that up pull it up have it beside you it will be on the screen as we go through it but we'll -[166.96 --> 169.52] jump back and actually jump around a little bit -[170.32 --> 170.72] morning -[170.72 --> 173.60] so james 2 -[173.60 --> 184.88] my brothers and sisters believers in our glorious lord jesus christ must not show favoritism -[186.96 --> 194.48] suppose a man comes into your meetings wearing a gold ring and fine clothes and a poor man in filthy old -[194.48 --> 195.84] clothes also comes in -[197.20 --> 203.44] if you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say here's a good seat for you -[203.60 --> 210.40] but say to the poor man you stand here or sit on the floor by my feet -[211.12 --> 216.72] have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts -[218.16 --> 226.72] listen my dear brothers and sisters has not god chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith -[226.72 --> 230.08] and to inherit the kingdom he promised to those who love him -[230.08 --> 239.60] but you have dishonored poor is it not the rich who are exploiting you are they not the ones who -[239.60 --> 244.00] are dragging you into court are they not the ones who are blaspheming the noble name of him who is -[244.96 --> 253.68] of him to whom you belong if you keep the royal law found in scripture love your neighbor as yourself you are doing right -[253.68 --> 260.00] but if you show favoritism you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers -[261.68 --> 267.28] whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it -[268.32 --> 272.56] for he who said you shall not commit adultery also said you shall not murder -[272.56 --> 282.88] if you do not commit adultery but do commit murder you have become a lawbreaker speak and act as those who -[282.88 --> 289.84] are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom because judgment without mercy will be shown to -[289.84 --> 299.12] anyone who has not been merciful mercy triumphs over judgment this is the word of the lord -[299.12 --> 315.20] soren kirkagard is a 19th century danish philosopher and theologian and he says -[316.32 --> 325.12] the human race in the course of time has taken the liberty of softening christianity until at least we -[325.12 --> 332.16] have contrived to make it exactly the opposite of what it was in the new testament -[335.20 --> 342.64] in james 1 verse 27 and pastor kevin led us in this last week he writes religion that god our father -[342.64 --> 350.40] accepts as pure and faultless is this and then he goes to keep oneself from being polluted by the world -[350.40 --> 358.40] and we've seen it here in this series before right that the james is calling us to holiness -[359.36 --> 367.20] and holiness is defined as being set apart from the rest of the world holiness is is going against the grain -[367.20 --> 374.48] as pastor kevin said last week holiness is going against the current of the western story -[374.48 --> 383.52] right because we are being pulled along and shaped in ways that we don't even realize and as christians we have to learn -[383.52 --> 388.64] first how to stand against that tide and then how to walk upstream -[390.56 --> 396.88] but the sad truth is that most of us don't really want to learn -[396.88 --> 403.04] it's too much work right we say things like life is already too hard -[404.16 --> 409.60] going full well that that's just an excuse to stand in our apathy or to be carried away -[411.28 --> 418.72] i once heard someone say that everything we do we do to increase our security and comfort -[418.72 --> 426.16] that's the goal of the western story and as christians believing in the west as those who -[426.16 --> 432.16] profess to be christians in the west right in our comfortable and progressive society of canada -[432.16 --> 436.72] we are just as guilty of living that reality -[438.72 --> 445.68] one of my uh most loved writers a pastor and theologian by the name of david platt he says -[445.68 --> 456.48] we want christianity and we want church on our terms according to our preferences aligning with our -[456.48 --> 463.20] lifestyles we are a people happy to go to church just as long as nothing in our lives has to change -[466.16 --> 472.56] martin luther in the 16th century said a religion that gives nothing costs nothing and suffers nothing -[472.56 --> 476.08] is worth nothing -[476.08 --> 483.92] carl bart theologian 20th century said the word became flesh and then through theologians it became words again -[487.44 --> 495.20] in this series in the book of james we are challenging each other god is speaking into our -[495.20 --> 506.24] lives challenging us to make our faith more than words we want to be hearers and doers we want to make -[506.24 --> 518.72] our faith real and to live lives out of that new reality after two james shows us another one of the ways to do that -[518.72 --> 527.36] so right here at the beginning i want to show you sort of my thesis right what i believe that james is -[527.36 --> 534.88] encouraging us to and to do that we're going to sort of pull on three verses from the text and we're going -[534.88 --> 540.40] to limit ourselves this morning to those three verses and so with your bibles look at verse one -[540.40 --> 549.28] james writes my brothers and sisters believers in our glorious lord jesus christ must not show favoritism -[551.28 --> 560.00] and then james gives some examples of what that might look like and then in verses five through seven -[560.00 --> 566.88] he gets some questions that start to reveal why and how god's kingdom economic looks a little bit different -[566.88 --> 574.16] and then in verse eight and nine we read if you really keep the royal law found in scripture love your -[574.16 --> 583.68] neighbor as yourself you are doing right but if you show favoritism you sin and are convicted by the law -[584.32 --> 596.32] as lawbreakers and it is this thread that i want to pull on with you today right the thread that runs -[596.32 --> 606.40] through love your neighbor as yourself and connects that to not showing favoritism let me put it like this -[606.96 --> 615.20] james is connecting here right the the second of the greatest commandments to love your neighbor as -[615.20 --> 623.36] yourself he is connecting that with this idea of not showing favoritism so one of the ways that we -[623.36 --> 629.76] don't show favoritism is by loving our neighbor whoever that may be now there's a logical structure -[629.76 --> 633.60] to the point that i'm making here and it might be hard to follow and so i've got this image that we're -[633.60 --> 639.20] going to put on screen in just a second here that's going to help you sort of see the steps of this point -[639.20 --> 645.92] that i'm making and you can follow the steps as that appears on screen and as you see it on screen -[645.92 --> 653.44] there just know that lanae that l-y-n-a is an acronym for love your neighbor as yourself so when i say lanae -[653.44 --> 661.12] i'm saying love your neighbor as yourself so first lanae is equal to not showing favoritism -[663.44 --> 669.92] and since lanae is also equal to not being about yourself that is selflessness -[669.92 --> 677.60] therefore by the transitive property or if you've studied logic the law of syllogism -[677.60 --> 686.32] right selflessness is not showing favoritism and then so to say it without the negation to say -[686.32 --> 694.64] positively we can conclude that favoritism is ultimately a form of self-ish yes -[694.64 --> 700.96] now i get that that might appear complicated and that not everyone follows those sort of -[701.60 --> 705.44] logical syllogistic structures in the way that they want so let me put it another way because -[705.44 --> 711.36] i really do want you to see this this morning and so if you have your bibles i want you to jump to -[711.36 --> 716.96] philippians 2. now if you don't philippians is a couple books before james and so just flip -[716.96 --> 721.68] to the left as it were or type it in your search bar philippians 2. -[721.68 --> 730.48] now uh two things before i read into this first of all philippians is one of my favorite books in -[730.48 --> 734.80] the bible and so when i'm looking to make a point you will learn that i probably end up back in -[734.80 --> 739.84] philippians pretty regularly two i think this is particularly pertinent for us because i know -[739.84 --> 745.52] there's a bible study or two that is from our church studying philippians right now and so all -[745.52 --> 749.12] these things are coming together in the work of the spirit philippians 2 -[751.44 --> 756.00] paul there writes saying if you have any encouragement for being united with christ -[756.00 --> 760.16] any comfort from his love if any common sharing in the spirit if any tenderness -[760.16 --> 766.32] and compassion really what he is saying there is if you are christian if you are part of this -[766.32 --> 771.92] fellowship of believers the body of christ if that is you then make my joy complete by being -[771.92 --> 775.92] like-minded and having the same love being one in spirit and of one mind and here it is -[776.48 --> 787.04] do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit rather in humility value others above yourselves -[787.04 --> 795.84] not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of others then we get this beautiful -[795.84 --> 803.92] picture of what that looks like and that looks like jesus all right paul continues in your relationship -[803.92 --> 809.68] with one another have the same mindset as christ jesus who being in very nature god did not consider -[809.68 --> 815.36] equality with god something to be used for his own advantage rather he made himself nothing taking on the -[815.36 --> 820.32] very nature of a servant being made in human likeness and being found in appearance as a man he humbled -[820.32 --> 827.84] himself and became obedient to death even death on the cross and here's where i want you to to go next -[827.84 --> 835.44] look at verse 14 do everything without grumbling or arguing -[838.24 --> 844.96] so do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit rather in humility consider every value others above -[844.96 --> 848.88] yourselves not looking to your own interests but to each of you to the interests of others and then -[848.88 --> 858.16] verse 14 that attitude of being like jesus that attitude of humility manifests itself in doing everything -[858.16 --> 861.84] without grumbling or arguing -[864.80 --> 875.12] grumbling comes from selfishness right i should get better i should be treated better i should have better -[875.12 --> 883.68] this should be easier or whatever form your grumbling takes right arguing comes from selfishness you need -[883.68 --> 891.68] to see it my way and if you just saw it my way boy this this all just be easier easier for me anyway -[892.96 --> 900.72] right likewise with favoritism we treat certain others better because we believe they will give us more -[900.72 --> 906.40] more that they will have a greater benefit to me right that i will get more out of this relationship -[906.40 --> 913.04] than i will out of that relationship so i'm going to focus my attention my efforts here we favor others -[913.04 --> 919.04] because we believe that they are safer or because they're less likely to make us uncomfortable -[920.16 --> 924.24] remember that idea that we do everything to be comfortable and safe -[924.24 --> 935.92] that's favoritism in james the word that he uses uh in greek or favoritism when he says believers in -[935.92 --> 941.36] our glorious lord jesus christ must not show favoritism that word favoritism literally means -[941.36 --> 948.32] to receive according to the face or to to lift up someone's face and the idea behind that word image -[948.32 --> 953.76] right is that we exalt someone or we make much of them we treat them differently or with more respect -[953.76 --> 958.72] because of their face because of the way that they look literally or because of the way that they -[958.72 --> 965.52] look in society right this person has power this person has status and so i'm going to treat them -[965.52 --> 974.40] differently right favoritism is to make judgments based on external appearance on superficial realities -[974.40 --> 982.00] and judging a person prejudicing them because of these superficial realities is not in any way -[982.00 --> 991.12] how you love your neighbor that's what james is now in james particular context it was about the wealthy -[991.12 --> 996.88] and the poor right and in a society uh that thought the wealthy were wealthy because they were being -[996.88 --> 1005.36] rewarded by god and blessed by god jesus comes and says blessed are the poor in a society that understood -[1005.36 --> 1012.64] power and status and the right to or as the right to rule jesus comes and says whoever wants to be great -[1012.64 --> 1019.04] among you must become the least that the last shall be first and the first shall be last -[1020.48 --> 1028.40] and we get that sort of application right in in our day too but favoritism also shows up in so many ways -[1028.40 --> 1036.08] in our lives we make snap judgments about people for what they wear about their physical appearance -[1036.08 --> 1044.24] the color of their skin or their physical ability on and on it goes in fact neuroscientists have shown -[1044.24 --> 1050.88] that it takes less than one tenth of a second to make a judgment about someone based solely on what -[1050.88 --> 1058.72] you see so much so that it can be hard for those people to actually overcome your preconceived notions -[1058.72 --> 1062.72] even though you made them with literally zero real intelligence about them -[1064.96 --> 1073.28] and you see it working out too right and and how you can actually be surprised when your snap judgment -[1073.28 --> 1078.08] and your preconceived ideas doesn't match the reality of the person in front of you once you start -[1078.08 --> 1084.16] talking to them or once you get to know them and the fact that you are surprised is indicative of -[1084.16 --> 1089.52] something here the fact that you are surprised is indicative of the kind of weight that we give our -[1089.52 --> 1097.20] prejudices more than the reality of the person standing in front of us okay let me let me illustrate this -[1097.20 --> 1103.76] in a in a really practical way and some of you are going to be probably made uncomfortable -[1103.76 --> 1110.32] and by this and i want to encourage you to live in that uncomfortability for a moment -[1112.16 --> 1119.12] so let's say it's your first day at a new job or at school or or whatever and lunch comes up and it's -[1119.12 --> 1126.24] time to go into the lunchroom walking into the lunchroom you see a group of people who are ethnically -[1126.24 --> 1133.68] like you and a group of people who are ethnically different than you each at their own table and -[1133.68 --> 1141.84] what do you instinctively do you move towards the group of people that are like you in one tenth of -[1141.84 --> 1148.48] one second you've made a decision but why or you don't know anything about either one of those groups -[1149.36 --> 1154.64] and look i don't want to oversimplify it and if you're listening to this and you are beginning that -[1154.64 --> 1159.12] justification train already if you're starting to justify what you would do and why you would do it -[1159.12 --> 1163.52] what about this or what about this or you don't know this part of the story of course i did that -[1166.08 --> 1172.00] be aware because you you in oversimplifying might be finding trying to find a way to -[1172.00 --> 1177.28] not be convicted by what we're saying here but again i don't want to oversimplify it but really simply -[1177.28 --> 1183.28] at the speed of thought in that one tenth of one second in your brain this happens you walk in -[1183.28 --> 1187.52] you see that one group is like you and you see that one group is not and your brain says that -[1187.52 --> 1192.72] group that is like me is safer and therefore they are more comfortable and that more comfortable means -[1192.72 --> 1198.80] that there's more for me to gain and then the group that is not like me is not safe and therefore -[1198.80 --> 1203.20] not comfortable and since they are not safe nor comfortable then i have nothing to gain -[1203.20 --> 1213.60] it is to that sort of subconscious and pre-conscious way of acting and thinking in the world that james -[1213.60 --> 1225.36] and jesus says no believers in our glorious lord jesus christ will not act that way and look i know -[1225.36 --> 1231.20] that most of us probably all of us will say that we wouldn't show favoritism like that or we shouldn't -[1231.20 --> 1239.28] show favoritism like that especially in that kind of example and yet i also know every one of us does -[1242.64 --> 1249.84] and it goes deeper still and not only are we guilty of showing favoritism we are guilty of assuming we -[1249.84 --> 1256.96] deserve favoritism if we deserve preferential treatment because of some sort of external realities -[1256.96 --> 1268.40] i can't tell you how many times i hear something like i have been part of this group be at a church or -[1268.40 --> 1275.52] anything else doesn't matter what for so long i deserve this or you should the expectation is you -[1275.52 --> 1282.56] should listen to me more right um i don't know all of you as well as i would like to yet and so you're -[1282.56 --> 1287.68] probably not like this um he says as a caveat knowing that you probably are -[1290.80 --> 1300.08] you see this with people who start churches charter members people who literally built this place with -[1300.08 --> 1304.16] their own hands where if you looked closely enough you would find their blood stains on the walls -[1304.16 --> 1307.84] somewhere because they are volunteers and they don't know how to use a hammer but still they did it -[1307.84 --> 1316.80] they say i've been here for 34 years since the beginning and what's the implication you haven't put the -[1316.80 --> 1326.72] same kind of time in that i have my opinion matters more my desire matters more or people -[1328.88 --> 1336.00] will say things like everything we do we only ever do for the young people -[1336.00 --> 1343.76] what's the implication start taking me more seriously or young people say everything we do -[1343.76 --> 1348.08] the only thing we ever do is for all the old people that's an interesting dynamic itself right -[1348.72 --> 1356.40] but what's the implication i deserve more and here's the reality of course every one of these groups -[1356.40 --> 1361.68] deserves more but it's not that we deserve more so much as that we deserve different we ought to be -[1361.68 --> 1366.40] treating each other differently we ought to be engaging in these sorts of conversations differently -[1366.40 --> 1373.84] because that's what it means to be christian whether you are a pastor or a pauper we are the same -[1377.20 --> 1385.52] and we ought to treat each other differently whether it's ethnicity or clothes whether it's employment -[1385.52 --> 1393.04] or not whether it is age or gender position or title christians must be different than the world around us -[1394.80 --> 1402.64] and look in in today's world there seems to be more and more polarization right we're talking about -[1402.64 --> 1407.76] covid anniversary in the last year how many times have you heard that word polarized society -[1407.76 --> 1416.08] right more than in the previous at least 37 years of my life that i've ever heard it and with this -[1416.08 --> 1421.84] polarization comes this increased desire and temptation to sort of circle the wagons -[1423.12 --> 1431.12] right to gather more and more in our closed circles and right now especially right we exist online but online -[1431.12 --> 1438.80] existence is always an echo chamber but quite literally the google algorithm that controls your -[1438.80 --> 1445.60] online engine is designed to make you click further and longer and to stay engaged longer and so it is -[1445.60 --> 1452.64] designed to present to you your stereotypes and your pre-existing notions so that you will go further down -[1452.64 --> 1458.32] that rabbit hole and so what ends up happening is that circle of wagons just gets tighter and tighter and -[1458.32 --> 1462.64] tighter and that echo chamber just gets smaller and smaller and smaller and all of a sudden we're not -[1462.64 --> 1469.12] listening to any different voices or hearing any other perspectives because other people's ideas make me -[1469.12 --> 1478.24] uncomfortable other people challenge my status quo and whether we recognize it or not we have carefully -[1478.24 --> 1483.12] manicured our lives to increase our safety and comfort in the world -[1483.12 --> 1486.24] our faith in the world -[1486.24 --> 1494.88] but today if you are christian if your faith is real that has got to stop -[1496.32 --> 1508.16] let me read it again so that it it hits harder if you show favoritism you sin and are convicted by the law as -[1508.16 --> 1519.60] lawbreakers favoritism is selfishness expressed and applied and selfishness is the root of all sin in your -[1519.60 --> 1526.16] life favoritism disrespects people and ultimately favoritism dishonors god -[1528.24 --> 1537.20] instead look at what james says james says to speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law -[1537.20 --> 1543.52] that gives freedom mercy triumphs over judgment -[1545.36 --> 1548.56] does mercy triumph over judgment in your life -[1550.72 --> 1558.32] because in the gospel of jesus mercy triumphed over judgment for your life -[1558.32 --> 1569.52] the simple reality in front of us this morning is that we each and every one are more sinful than we could ever -[1570.08 --> 1570.72] imagine -[1572.48 --> 1575.52] more sinful than we would ever dare to admit -[1577.20 --> 1577.76] and yet -[1579.12 --> 1584.40] we are more loved than we could ever know possible -[1584.40 --> 1592.80] and out of god's great love for us jesus christ came into the world and he lived the life i should -[1592.80 --> 1604.64] have lived and he died the death that i deserve mercy triumphs over judgment on the cross and god now calls you out of darkness into his wonderful light -[1604.64 --> 1613.20] god calls you now out of the death of worldliness into new life in his kingdom and that looks different -[1613.20 --> 1618.16] and it looks different because finally and maybe for the first time you are actually alive -[1619.68 --> 1624.80] actually really living in christ jesus -[1624.80 --> 1630.40] and so when you want to know what that life looks like -[1631.60 --> 1638.64] but one it looks like being alive and being alive looks like mercy -[1640.16 --> 1640.96] it looks different -[1642.96 --> 1646.24] it's the law that gives freedom -[1646.24 --> 1647.92] now -[1647.92 --> 1649.76] i want to be really clear because there is -[1651.52 --> 1661.28] a presumption here in james's letter that that may not be obvious to all of us as we read through this book or as we read through many of these books but -[1661.36 --> 1667.76] but notice the beginning of our text starts with believers in our glorious lord jesus christ james is -[1667.76 --> 1668.88] presuming -[1668.88 --> 1674.88] that his readers that the people who are hearing this book just like i want to presume that you -[1674.88 --> 1679.04] are already believers in our glorious lord jesus christ -[1679.60 --> 1684.80] and that's the only reason why i want to then say this is what your life ought to look like -[1685.60 --> 1692.56] because only after you have received the gracious gift of god that is faith in christ jesus only after -[1692.56 --> 1699.76] have you been as only after that you have been raised from death into newness of life can you actually live -[1699.76 --> 1710.24] this kind of life only after you have been transformed and brought into the body and the blood of jesus christ to be his body his bride -[1711.60 --> 1712.64] can you look at the law -[1713.68 --> 1715.44] and say there is -[1716.24 --> 1718.24] freedom -[1720.00 --> 1721.76] before that new life -[1723.20 --> 1726.00] we look at the law and we say there is burden -[1726.00 --> 1727.60] there is -[1727.60 --> 1734.80] there is hardship there is sin being transformed into transgression as we are made actively aware of all -[1734.80 --> 1739.12] those places that we have fallen short the glory of god -[1741.92 --> 1745.28] but in the power of the spirit -[1746.56 --> 1755.84] in the power of new life precisely because mercy has triumphed over judgment in you and for you -[1755.84 --> 1761.44] the church is made -[1762.08 --> 1762.64] different -[1763.84 --> 1765.28] the church must be -[1765.92 --> 1766.32] different -[1767.12 --> 1773.60] when it comes to race the church must be different when it comes to power and positions in society the -[1773.60 --> 1779.76] church must be different christians must be different and so when it comes to politics -[1779.76 --> 1789.44] christians must be different when it comes to people all people everywhere christians must be different because christians are -[1789.44 --> 1791.12] different -[1795.04 --> 1795.60] embrace -[1797.04 --> 1797.84] your difference -[1801.04 --> 1801.60] embrace -[1801.60 --> 1804.24] and know -[1804.24 --> 1809.04] and know what it means to be a lavishly loved child -[1809.04 --> 1810.48] father -[1810.48 --> 1813.28] and embrace -[1813.28 --> 1816.56] what it means that all of us -[1818.56 --> 1819.52] need his mercy -[1819.52 --> 1822.40] and that in him -[1822.40 --> 1824.64] we are all -[1824.64 --> 1825.92] one -[1825.92 --> 1827.12] one -[1827.12 --> 1828.08] go -[1828.08 --> 1830.00] and be different -[1830.64 --> 1831.92] by making your faith -[1832.64 --> 1832.96] real -[1835.20 --> 1836.64] my prayer is that today -[1837.84 --> 1839.28] and every day going forward -[1840.48 --> 1841.92] when the people outside of -[1842.56 --> 1844.40] the church look at us -[1845.20 --> 1846.48] when everything else is different -[1846.48 --> 1847.68] they will see us -[1847.68 --> 1850.40] they will see you -[1851.76 --> 1852.48] as different -[1853.92 --> 1854.32] amen -[1854.88 --> 1855.60] let's pray together -[1863.04 --> 1863.68] lord jesus -[1866.16 --> 1867.44] we confess to you -[1867.44 --> 1871.52] that in so many areas of our lives -[1871.52 --> 1873.04] in every area of our life -[1873.68 --> 1878.72] we have given into the temptation to make things safer and more comfortable for us -[1879.68 --> 1885.52] and we have not heard your truth when you said that in this world we will have trouble -[1888.40 --> 1895.68] we've not heard the the the reality that recognizes that anyone who desires to be holy -[1895.68 --> 1898.24] will be persecuted -[1901.04 --> 1902.40] we've not heard the call -[1903.28 --> 1904.16] to be different -[1905.92 --> 1907.92] in a world of indifference -[1910.16 --> 1916.72] and so lord god instead of circling the wagons we pray that you would send us out -[1918.08 --> 1920.40] as ambassadors of reconciliation -[1921.44 --> 1925.60] we pray that you would send us out as emissaries of your kingdom -[1925.60 --> 1927.44] come and your kingdom coming -[1927.44 --> 1934.64] and that when every single person looks at us they would see something different and though -[1934.64 --> 1936.32] they cannot understand it -[1937.52 --> 1940.56] though it might even offend their sensibilities -[1942.24 --> 1943.36] may they be convicted -[1943.36 --> 1944.96] by who you are -[1944.96 --> 1946.96] and what you are doing -[1948.56 --> 1952.48] open our eyes lord god to the ways that we have shown favoritism -[1953.52 --> 1959.28] open our eyes lord god to the ways that we have been selfish in our living -[1959.28 --> 1966.40] and by your spirit and the newness of life that you have granted to us lord jesus servant king -[1967.44 --> 1973.84] may we live as you have lived may our attitudes be the same -[1973.84 --> 1985.68] in whose name is christ jesus in whose name we pray amen amen diff --git a/Praise & Prayer - Nov. 21, 2021 Evening_summary.txt b/Praise & Prayer - Nov. 21, 2021 Evening_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 5f0c490e7948f96b7fb08b08dea7affb68c529f2..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Praise & Prayer - Nov. 21, 2021 Evening_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,56 +0,0 @@ -• The need for revival in personal hearts and across the land -• The importance of lifting one's voice to say amen -• Holding onto the Spirit and the Word of God -• Calling on God to move and expressing confidence that He will -• Singing a hymn, "Arise, My Soul", about redemption and salvation through Jesus Christ -• Expressing gratitude for forgiveness and reconciliation with God -• Praying for continued confidence in one's relationship with God -• Introduction to Praise and Prayer evening -• Description of Praise and Prayer goals and format -• Singing and worship songs, including "I Raise a Hallelujah" -• Call to action: singing in the presence of enemies, louder than unbelief -• Reflection on God's power and glory, including cleaning hosts of heaven and making kings bow down -• Invitation to behold and worship God -• Worship and praise for a holy God -• Praise for God's acts of power and greatness -• Recognition of God as creator and guide -• Request to feel God's presence and acceptance -• Acknowledgement of human limitations and need for comfort in worship -• Desire for closeness to God and obedience -• Reflection on the mystery of Christ's incarnation -• Christ's suffering and sinlessness -• The true and better Adam, Jesus Christ -• Redemption through Christ's sacrifice on the cross -• Christ's resurrection and power -• Hope of deliverance and future glory -• Worship and praise of God's name -• Trials and hardships, but God's goodness in them -• Praise and worship in all circumstances -• Worship and praise to God in His presence -• Longing for hearts to receive and ears to hear God's words -• Gathering together as a community to worship and experience heaven on earth -• Glimpsing the reason God created the world: to glorify Him and enjoy relationship with Him forever -• Participating in God's purpose through mission, proclaiming the gospel, and works of justice and mercy -• Waiting for Jesus' return, praying for His quick coming, and longing to see His glory. -• Worship and praise of God -• Quote from 1 Chronicles 16:23-31 about proclaiming God's salvation and glory -• Reference to the Lamb who was slain and the throne in heaven -• Mention of angels singing and creatures in heaven worshiping God -• Jesus coming on the clouds and kings bowing down -• God as the Lion, the Lion of Judah, roaring with power and fighting battles -• Every knee will bow before Him -• Jesus as the hope, strength, peace, and unfailing promise of God's presence -• Promises made by God -• Victory over the enemy -• Trust in God's unfailing nature -• Praise to God for being good and present -• Encouragement from Pastor Chris and blessing before final song -• Future plans for praise and prayer services -• Call to receive blessings from God -• Names and titles of God (Jehovah, Elohim, The Great I Am, The Risen Man, Comforter and King) -• Desire to be filled with spiritual fire -• Purpose to worship God alone -• Request to open up one's soul for worship and adoration -• Aspiration to be a fragrance offered to God's throne -• Repeated invocation of God's name -• Mention of the comfort and kingship of God \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Praise & Prayer - Nov. 21, 2021 Evening_transcript.txt b/Praise & Prayer - Nov. 21, 2021 Evening_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d156172dfe5bffde92b144932c99b2db27eafd9d..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Praise & Prayer - Nov. 21, 2021 Evening_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,706 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 10.00] 조심 -[30.00 --> 32.00] I'm on a way for me. -[33.56 --> 39.48] Everybody looking for a revival in our own hearts and across the land. -[39.78 --> 42.56] Everybody looking for a revival. -[42.96 --> 45.68] Lift up your voices and say amen. -[45.92 --> 48.66] Lift up your voices and say amen. -[48.66 --> 52.02] You can work all you want, but you might not see it. -[52.20 --> 54.96] Give all you got, but it can't be lost. -[55.26 --> 58.18] Try everything, but you best believe it. -[58.18 --> 61.24] Hold me by the Spirit and the Word of God. -[61.36 --> 64.08] Hold me by the Spirit and the Word of God. -[64.22 --> 65.72] Come with me. -[66.84 --> 68.94] Come on with me. -[70.76 --> 76.66] Everybody here looking for a revival in our own hearts and across the land. -[76.66 --> 79.66] Everybody looking for a revival. -[80.06 --> 82.86] Lift up your voices and say amen. -[83.02 --> 85.84] Lift up your voices and say amen. -[85.84 --> 87.84] I said amen. -[89.12 --> 89.90] Hold me by the Spirit and the Word of God. -[89.90 --> 91.90] I said amen. -[91.90 --> 94.06] I said amen. -[95.32 --> 98.32] God is gonna move and there ain't no doubt. -[98.48 --> 101.24] God is gonna move and there ain't no doubt. -[101.36 --> 102.90] Come with me. -[103.90 --> 105.88] Come on with me. -[105.88 --> 109.76] God is gonna move and there ain't no doubt. -[109.76 --> 111.06] God is gonna move and there ain't no doubt. -[111.06 --> 111.48] That ain't no doubt. -[113.92 --> 116.84] Anybody looking for a revival. -[116.84 --> 118.52] Lift up your voice. -[118.52 --> 120.24] Lift up your voice. -[120.24 --> 123.06] Anybody here looking for revival. -[123.06 --> 126.10] Head on our own hearts and across the land. -[126.34 --> 129.20] Anybody looking for a revival. -[129.60 --> 132.20] Lift up your voices and say amen. -[132.20 --> 136.26] Oh, amen -[136.26 --> 139.14] We're looking for another -[139.14 --> 144.58] Amen, amen -[144.58 --> 149.52] Brothers and sisters -[149.52 --> 151.74] Let me sing now -[162.20 --> 192.18] Let me sing now -[192.20 --> 222.18] Let me sing now -[222.20 --> 224.20] Let me sing now -[224.20 --> 232.20] Let me sing now -[232.20 --> 234.20] Let me sing now -[234.20 --> 238.20] Let me sing now -[238.20 --> 240.20] Let me sing now -[240.20 --> 244.20] Let me sing now -[244.20 --> 248.20] Let me sing now -[248.20 --> 250.20] Let me sing now -[250.20 --> 254.20] Let me sing now -[254.20 --> 258.20] Let me sing now -[258.20 --> 260.20] Let me sing now -[260.20 --> 262.20] Let me sing now -[262.20 --> 270.20] Let me sing now -[270.20 --> 272.20] Let me sing now -[272.20 --> 274.20] Let me sing now -[274.20 --> 276.20] Let me sing now -[276.20 --> 284.20] Let me sing now -[284.20 --> 286.20] Let me sing now -[286.20 --> 288.20] Let me sing now -[288.20 --> 290.20] Let me sing now -[290.20 --> 292.20] Let me sing now -[292.20 --> 294.20] Let me sing now -[294.20 --> 296.20] Let me sing now -[296.20 --> 320.20] This isworking past -[320.20 --> 337.08] Please stand and sing with us. -[350.20 --> 369.58] Arise, my soul, arise, shake off your guilty fears. -[369.58 --> 377.20] The bleeding sacrifice on my behalf appears. -[377.20 --> 381.42] Before the throne my surety stands. -[381.74 --> 385.22] Before the throne my surety stands. -[385.56 --> 389.82] My name is written on His hands. -[393.02 --> 400.16] Arise, arise, arise, arise, arise, my soul, arise. -[400.16 --> 407.62] Arise, arise, arise, arise, my soul, arise. -[407.88 --> 412.16] Shake off your guilty fears and rise. -[415.42 --> 421.16] He never lives above for me to intercede. -[421.16 --> 428.16] His all-redeeming love, His precious blood to be. -[430.16 --> 433.96] His blood atoned for every ring. -[433.96 --> 437.84] His blood atoned for every ring. -[437.84 --> 442.84] And sprinkles now the throne of grace. -[445.84 --> 452.84] Arise, arise, arise, arise, arise, arise, my soul, arise. -[452.84 --> 459.84] Arise, arise, arise, arise, arise, arise, my soul, arise. -[459.84 --> 468.84] Arise, arise, arise, arise, arise, arise, arise, arise, arise, arise. -[468.84 --> 473.84] By pleading wounds He bears, received on Calvary. -[473.84 --> 475.84] They pour effectual prayers. -[475.84 --> 478.84] They pour effectual prayers. -[478.84 --> 480.84] They strongly plead for me. -[480.84 --> 486.84] Forgive Him, oh, forgive, they cry. -[486.84 --> 490.84] Forgive Him, oh, forgive, they cry. -[490.84 --> 494.84] Don't let that ransom sinner die. -[494.84 --> 496.84] He never license. -[496.84 --> 497.84] He never сказала. -[497.84 --> 498.84] He nevereth emotional願い, the resurrection of his death. -[499.84 --> 500.84] Alright, we pray. -[505.84 --> 511.84] He never leaves and low letting them know the ancients are birthday. -[511.84 --> 513.84] As . -[513.84 --> 514.84] He was thirsty to acres. -[514.84 --> 515.84] Wait so much! -[515.84 --> 517.84] Most of that have a harbor wage. -[517.84 --> 520.84] That may be lecture where the reconciliation of His husband was�를 nee and come up. -[521.84 --> 522.84] 'titin. -[522.84 --> 536.84] God is reconciled, his pardoning voice I hear. He owns me for his child, I can no longer feel. -[536.84 --> 549.84] With confidence I now draw nigh, with confidence I now draw nigh, and Father have a Father cry. -[549.84 --> 568.84] Arise, arise, arise, my soul, arise. -[568.84 --> 573.84] Shake off your guilty fears and rise. -[579.84 --> 585.84] Welcome everyone here and joining us online in live stream. -[585.84 --> 590.84] Tonight is the first installment of what we are calling Praise and Prayer. -[590.84 --> 594.84] The goal of Praise and Prayer is to have evenings like this once in a while, -[594.84 --> 599.84] where we can come to church and honour our Lord in song and in prayer. -[599.84 --> 603.84] We don't have a stand-up, sit-down routine like a regular Sunday service would, -[603.84 --> 610.84] so stand when you want, sit if you need to, and join us and sing. -[610.84 --> 616.84] O praise the name of the Lord our God. -[616.84 --> 620.84] The echo of our days, he is our song. -[620.84 --> 626.84] As broken hearts declare his praise, we will worship him in righteousness. -[626.84 --> 631.84] We raise a hallelujah with everything inside of us. -[631.84 --> 637.84] We cry holy to Christ, the great and sure of fulfillment. -[637.84 --> 643.84] Our hope is in him alone, our strength in his mighty name. -[643.84 --> 646.84] Let every nation shout of his fame. -[646.84 --> 650.84] Our purpose is to worship him alone. -[650.84 --> 655.84] Arise, come and worship the Holy God. -[655.84 --> 664.84] I raise a hallelujah in the presence of my enemies. -[664.84 --> 680.84] I raise a hallelujah in the presence of my enemies. -[680.84 --> 693.76] I raise a hallelujah louder than the unbelief. -[693.76 --> 699.94] I raise a hallelujah. -[702.44 --> 706.56] My weapon is a melody. -[706.56 --> 713.96] I raise a hallelujah. -[717.34 --> 721.92] Heaven comes to fight for me. -[724.62 --> 730.86] I'm gonna sing in the middle of the storm. -[730.86 --> 738.26] Louder and louder, you're gonna hear my praises roar. -[738.26 --> 744.60] Up from the ashes, hope will arise. -[745.26 --> 751.26] Death is defeated, the King is alive. -[751.26 --> 764.58] I raise a hallelujah. -[764.58 --> 771.08] With everything inside of me. -[771.08 --> 777.62] I raise a hallelujah. -[780.48 --> 784.72] I will watch the darkness clean. -[786.80 --> 790.78] I raise a hallelujah. -[790.78 --> 797.18] In the middle of the mystery. -[800.18 --> 803.90] I raise a hallelujah. -[807.50 --> 811.24] Here you've lost your hold on me. -[811.24 --> 819.98] I'm gonna sing in the middle of the storm. -[820.64 --> 826.98] Louder and louder, you're gonna hear my praises roar. -[827.66 --> 833.44] Up from the ashes, hope will arise. -[833.44 --> 840.84] Death is defeated, the King is alive. -[840.84 --> 854.24] Outro Music -[854.24 --> 854.72] Sing a little louder -[854.72 --> 859.06] Sing a little louder -[859.06 --> 862.12] Sing a little louder -[862.12 --> 867.12] Sing a little louder, sing a little louder -[867.12 --> 874.12] Sing a little louder, sing a little louder -[874.12 --> 877.12] In the presence of my enemies -[877.12 --> 884.12] Sing a little louder, louder than the unbelief -[884.12 --> 890.12] Sing a little louder, my weapon is a melody -[890.12 --> 897.12] Sing a little louder, heaven comes to fight for me -[897.12 --> 903.12] Sing a little louder, in the presence of my enemies -[903.12 --> 910.12] Sing a little louder, louder than the unbelief -[910.12 --> 916.12] Sing a little louder, my weapon is a melody -[916.12 --> 919.12] Sing a little louder, sing a little louder -[919.12 --> 933.12] Sing a little louder, I'm gonna sing in the middle of the storm -[933.12 --> 940.12] Louder and louder, you're gonna hear my praises roar -[940.12 --> 946.12] Up from the ashes, hope will arise -[946.12 --> 953.12] Death is defeated, the king is alive -[953.12 --> 959.12] I'm gonna sing in the middle of the storm -[959.12 --> 960.12] I'm gonna sing in the middle of the storm -[960.12 --> 966.12] Louder and louder, you're gonna hear my praises roar -[966.12 --> 972.12] Up from the ashes, hope will arise -[972.12 --> 981.12] Death is defeated, the king is alive -[981.12 --> 982.62] I raise the hallelujah -[987.12 --> 988.12] I raise the hallelujah -[991.12 --> 994.12] I raise the hallelujah -[994.12 --> 1001.12] I raise the hallelujah -[1001.12 --> 1006.42] A raise of hallelujah -[1031.12 --> 1047.04] Who else could cleanse all the hosts of heaven? -[1047.98 --> 1053.90] Who else could make every king bow down? -[1055.16 --> 1059.86] Who else could whisper and darkness tremble? -[1061.12 --> 1065.46] Only a holy God -[1065.46 --> 1073.48] What other beauty demands such praises? -[1075.32 --> 1079.96] What other splendor outshines the sun? -[1079.96 --> 1086.56] What other majesty rules with justice? -[1086.56 --> 1090.90] What other beauty demands such praises? -[1090.90 --> 1095.24] What other beauty demands such praises? -[1095.24 --> 1099.58] Come and behold Him -[1099.58 --> 1103.92] The one and the only -[1103.92 --> 1109.26] Cry out, sing holy -[1109.26 --> 1113.60] Forever a holy God -[1113.60 --> 1117.94] Come and worship the holy God -[1117.94 --> 1122.28] What other glory consumes like fire? -[1122.28 --> 1135.42] What other glory consumes like fire? -[1135.42 --> 1141.76] What other power can raise the dead? -[1141.76 --> 1148.10] What other name remains undefeated? -[1148.10 --> 1152.44] Only a holy God -[1152.44 --> 1153.78] Come and behold Him -[1153.78 --> 1161.92] Come and behold Him -[1161.92 --> 1166.78] The one and the only -[1166.78 --> 1171.78] Cry out, sing holy -[1171.78 --> 1176.44] Forever a holy God -[1176.44 --> 1180.78] Come and worship the holy God -[1180.78 --> 1183.44] Come and behold Him -[1183.44 --> 1187.44] Come and behold Him -[1187.44 --> 1192.44] The one and the only -[1192.44 --> 1196.78] Cry out, sing holy -[1196.78 --> 1197.78] Cry out, sing holy -[1197.78 --> 1201.78] Forever a holy God -[1201.78 --> 1207.78] Come and worship the holy God -[1207.78 --> 1219.12] Who else could rescue me -[1219.12 --> 1221.12] Who else could rescue me -[1221.12 --> 1224.12] From my failing? -[1224.12 --> 1230.12] Who else would offer His only Son? -[1230.12 --> 1236.36] Who else invites me to call Him Father? -[1237.78 --> 1242.42] Only a holy God -[1242.42 --> 1255.74] Only a holy God -[1255.74 --> 1257.22] Only my holy God -[1257.22 --> 1258.48] Only my holy God -[1258.48 --> 1260.06] Come and behold Him -[1260.06 --> 1260.16] The one and the only -[1260.16 --> 1264.04] Cry out, sing holy -[1264.04 --> 1269.50] Holy, forever a holy God. -[1269.82 --> 1274.38] Come and worship the Holy God. -[1275.86 --> 1285.04] Come and behold Him, the one and the only. -[1285.04 --> 1295.08] Cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[1295.44 --> 1300.30] Come and worship the Holy God. -[1315.04 --> 1327.40] Praise the Lord. -[1328.10 --> 1329.72] Praise God in His sanctuary. -[1330.34 --> 1331.86] Praise Him in His mighty heaven. -[1333.14 --> 1335.18] Praise Him for His acts of power. -[1335.90 --> 1337.62] Praise Him for His surpassing greatness. -[1338.58 --> 1340.52] Praise Him for the sounding of the trumpet. -[1341.24 --> 1342.90] Praise Him with the harp and lyre. -[1343.64 --> 1345.60] Praise Him with tambourine and dancing. -[1346.28 --> 1348.20] Praise Him with the strings and flute. -[1349.02 --> 1351.04] Praise Him with the clash of cymbals. -[1351.60 --> 1353.56] Praise Him with resounding cymbals. -[1354.16 --> 1356.52] Let everything that is breath praise the Lord. -[1357.12 --> 1357.76] Praise the Lord. -[1363.20 --> 1366.98] Lord, Your people are gathered here to worship. -[1368.14 --> 1372.42] We come before You to honor and praise Your holy name. -[1372.90 --> 1375.20] There is no one else that is worthy. -[1375.94 --> 1378.54] There is no one else that created us. -[1379.34 --> 1382.82] There is no one else that can give us the love that You do. -[1383.68 --> 1391.52] There is no one, not another being, that guides, leads, and protects us through our days here on this earth. -[1392.38 --> 1399.74] Lord, because of these things and more, we lift our hearts and voices to You in reverence and praise. -[1399.74 --> 1404.74] Lord, we know the vision of Jesus walking among the lampstands. -[1404.74 --> 1406.68] Walk among us. -[1407.52 --> 1409.80] Fill this place with Your presence. -[1409.80 --> 1416.80] May we know Your heart. -[1416.80 --> 1421.80] May we know Your heart. -[1421.80 --> 1434.80] As we see Your face, may we know Your heart. -[1434.80 --> 1439.80] Feel Your presence. -[1439.80 --> 1440.80] Feel Your presence. -[1440.80 --> 1442.80] Acceptance. -[1443.80 --> 1449.80] As we seek Your face. -[1449.80 --> 1455.80] Move among us now. -[1455.80 --> 1456.80] Come reveal Your heart. -[1456.80 --> 1457.80] Come reveal Your heart. -[1457.80 --> 1462.80] Come reveal Your heart. -[1462.80 --> 1466.80] Come reveal Your heart. -[1466.80 --> 1470.80] Show Your presence. -[1470.80 --> 1472.80] Acceptance. -[1472.80 --> 1473.80] Acceptance. -[1473.80 --> 1474.80] Move among us now. -[1474.80 --> 1475.80] At Your feet we fall. -[1475.80 --> 1479.80] At Your feet we fall. -[1479.80 --> 1480.80] Sovereign Lord. -[1480.80 --> 1482.80] Weep high holy, holy, at Your feet we fall. -[1482.80 --> 1483.80] At Your feet we fall. -[1483.80 --> 1484.80] At Your feet we fall. -[1484.80 --> 1485.80] At Your feet we fall. -[1485.80 --> 1489.80] At Your feet we fall. -[1489.80 --> 1495.80] Sovereign Lord. -[1495.80 --> 1510.80] Weep high holy, holy, at Your feet we fall. -[1510.80 --> 1519.80] God, we express to You our gratitude and thankfulness for the opportunity to approach You. -[1519.80 --> 1525.80] We can have a personal relationship with our Creator, our Savior. -[1525.80 --> 1534.80] We're surrounded by business, full schedules we can barely keep track of, jobs, kids, loss, pain and suffering. -[1534.80 --> 1540.80] Sometimes we feel like we want the world to stop and let us catch a breath, but that doesn't happen. -[1540.80 --> 1545.80] Our comfort in our worship and in our prayers is that we rest in You. -[1545.80 --> 1560.80] Thank You -[1560.80 --> 1562.80] Jesus, draw me Lord -[1562.80 --> 1577.86] Jesus, draw me close -[1577.86 --> 1583.46] Closer, Lord, to you -[1583.46 --> 1591.32] Let the world around me -[1591.32 --> 1597.50] Fade away -[1597.50 --> 1607.86] Jesus, draw me close -[1607.86 --> 1613.62] Closer, Lord, to you -[1613.62 --> 1623.80] For I desire to worship and obey -[1623.80 --> 1631.98] For I desire to worship and obey -[1631.98 --> 1661.96] Thank you. -[1661.98 --> 1668.12] Come, behold the wondrous mystery -[1668.12 --> 1673.30] In the dawning of the King -[1673.30 --> 1679.22] He the theme of heaven's praises -[1679.22 --> 1683.36] Rogued in frail humanity -[1683.36 --> 1690.00] In our longing, in our darkness -[1690.00 --> 1695.56] Now the light of life has come -[1695.56 --> 1701.24] Looked to Christ who condescended -[1701.24 --> 1707.00] Took on flesh to ransom us -[1707.00 --> 1721.36] Come, behold the wondrous mystery -[1721.36 --> 1726.74] He the perfect Son of man -[1726.74 --> 1732.72] In His living, in His suffering -[1732.72 --> 1738.02] Never trace nor stain of sin -[1738.02 --> 1744.12] See the true and better Adam -[1744.12 --> 1748.74] Come to save the hell-bound man -[1748.74 --> 1755.12] Christ the great and sure fulfillment -[1755.12 --> 1760.74] Of the law, in Him we stand -[1760.74 --> 1775.38] Come, behold the wondrous mystery -[1775.38 --> 1780.30] Christ the Lord upon the tree -[1780.30 --> 1786.30] In the stead of ruined sinners -[1786.90 --> 1791.30] Hangs the Lamb in victory -[1791.30 --> 1797.82] See the price of our redemption -[1797.82 --> 1803.30] See the Father's plan on toll -[1803.30 --> 1809.56] Bringing many sons to glory -[1809.56 --> 1815.30] Grace unmeasured, love untold -[1815.30 --> 1829.30] Come, behold the wondrous mystery -[1829.30 --> 1829.90] Come, behold the wondrous mystery -[1829.90 --> 1835.54] Slain by death, the God of life -[1835.54 --> 1841.76] But no grave could e'er restrain Him -[1841.76 --> 1847.42] Praise the Lord, He is alive -[1847.42 --> 1853.42] What a foretaste of deliverance -[1853.42 --> 1858.86] How unwavering our hope -[1858.86 --> 1864.28] Christ in power resurrected -[1864.28 --> 1894.26] As we will be -[1894.26 --> 1896.26] When He comes -[1896.26 --> 1897.38] When He comes -[1897.38 --> 1900.26] When He comes -[1900.26 --> 1902.26] When He comes -[1902.26 --> 1906.26] When He comes -[1906.26 --> 1908.26] When He comes -[1908.26 --> 1910.26] When He comes -[1910.26 --> 1912.26] When He comes -[1912.26 --> 1915.26] I cast my mind -[1915.26 --> 1921.26] To Calvary -[1921.26 --> 1928.26] Where Jesus bled and died for me -[1928.26 --> 1930.26] I cast my mind -[1930.26 --> 1932.26] To Calvary -[1932.26 --> 1936.26] Where Jesus bled and died for me -[1936.26 --> 1943.26] Jesus bled and died for me -[1943.26 --> 1951.26] I see His wounds, His hands, His feet -[1951.26 --> 1953.26] My Savior, my Savior, my Savior -[1953.26 --> 1958.26] My Savior, our that cursed tree -[1958.26 --> 1966.26] His body bowed and drenched in tears -[1966.26 --> 1968.26] They laid Him down in Joseph's tomb -[1968.26 --> 1969.26] They laid Him down in Joseph's tomb -[1969.26 --> 1973.26] They laid Him down in Joseph's tomb -[1973.26 --> 1980.26] The entrance sealed by heavy stone -[1980.26 --> 1987.26] The entrance sealed by heavy stone -[1987.26 --> 1992.26] Messiah still and all alone -[1992.26 --> 1993.26] And all alone -[1993.26 --> 1995.26] And all alone -[1995.26 --> 2008.26] O praise the name of the Lord our God -[2008.26 --> 2011.26] O praise His name -[2011.26 --> 2012.26] O praise His name -[2012.26 --> 2015.26] Forevermore -[2015.26 --> 2019.26] For endless days -[2019.26 --> 2024.26] We will sing Your praise -[2024.26 --> 2026.26] O Lord -[2026.26 --> 2027.26] O Lord -[2027.26 --> 2028.26] O Lord -[2028.26 --> 2030.26] Our God -[2030.26 --> 2038.26] When on the third -[2038.26 --> 2042.26] At break of dawn -[2042.26 --> 2046.26] The Son of Heaven -[2046.26 --> 2047.26] Heaven -[2047.26 --> 2049.26] And rose again -[2049.26 --> 2051.26] O O O mod -[2051.26 --> 2053.26] O O O O Lamb -[2053.26 --> 2054.26] O O O Lord -[2054.26 --> 2057.96] Where is your sting? -[2058.38 --> 2065.30] The angels roar for Christ the King. -[2068.64 --> 2077.36] Oh, praise the name of the Lord our God. -[2077.36 --> 2084.36] Oh, praise His name forevermore. -[2085.14 --> 2092.42] For endless days we will sing Your praise. -[2092.84 --> 2098.36] Oh, Lord, oh, Lord our God. -[2098.36 --> 2110.54] We shall return in robes of white. -[2110.76 --> 2118.14] The blazing sun shall pierce the night. -[2118.14 --> 2126.62] And I will rise among the saints. -[2127.28 --> 2134.58] My gates transpiced on Jesus' face. -[2134.58 --> 2164.56] The blazing sun shall pierce the night. -[2164.58 --> 2176.58] Oh, praise the name of the Lord our God. -[2177.64 --> 2184.78] Oh, praise His name forevermore. -[2184.78 --> 2192.22] For endless days we will sing Your praise. -[2192.60 --> 2197.78] Oh, Lord, oh, Lord our God. -[2197.78 --> 2207.26] Oh, praise the name of the Lord our God. -[2207.26 --> 2214.26] Oh, praise His name forevermore. -[2215.08 --> 2222.44] For endless days we will sing Your praise. -[2222.44 --> 2228.44] O Lord, oh, Lord our God. -[2230.26 --> 2236.44] Oh, Lord, oh, Lord our God. -[2252.44 --> 2254.44] We come before You. -[2254.44 --> 2258.08] We come before You to worship You. -[2260.26 --> 2262.02] We come to praise You. -[2262.26 --> 2263.60] Praise Your name. -[2263.60 --> 2267.60] Oh, praise the name of the Lord our God. -[2267.60 --> 2270.60] Praise His name forevermore. -[2270.60 --> 2277.28] It is Your name that is holy. -[2277.28 --> 2279.28] You make us holy, God. -[2279.28 --> 2279.78] You make us holy, God. -[2282.58 --> 2285.04] And amidst the chaos of our world, -[2285.38 --> 2288.46] it's hard sometimes to praise You. -[2291.04 --> 2294.04] But You call us to Yourself. -[2295.56 --> 2298.24] You call us to praise You in the storm. -[2298.42 --> 2300.90] Your voice is over the mighty waters. -[2300.90 --> 2303.14] You are good. -[2306.56 --> 2309.02] You are good in amidst the storm. -[2309.20 --> 2310.78] You are good in the trials. -[2311.00 --> 2312.30] You are good in the hurt. -[2312.46 --> 2313.84] You are good in the hard. -[2316.72 --> 2318.06] And we praise You. -[2318.76 --> 2322.30] We praise You when we're in brokenness. -[2322.44 --> 2325.64] We praise You when we're in loss, God. -[2330.90 --> 2346.76] We offer You our praise. -[2349.58 --> 2352.82] We know that You are here. -[2355.38 --> 2358.12] We know that You are in our midst. -[2358.30 --> 2360.56] We know that Your Spirit is moving in power. -[2360.90 --> 2363.08] Even right now. -[2363.28 --> 2367.86] Speaking words of love and affection to our hearts. -[2369.30 --> 2373.92] And so, God, as we bask in the glory of Your presence, -[2374.08 --> 2377.82] we long for hearts to receive and ears to hear. -[2377.94 --> 2381.82] We long for eyes that can see You, Lord Jesus. -[2386.44 --> 2389.88] God, we gather together tonight. -[2390.90 --> 2391.90] We're here tonight. -[2391.90 --> 2392.24] We're here tonight. -[2392.24 --> 2396.30] Not just because You have called us here to worship You. -[2397.18 --> 2404.24] Not just because all creation proclaims Your name and the glories of Your work in the world. -[2404.58 --> 2406.40] You have called us here tonight. -[2406.74 --> 2409.14] Not just because it is right and it is good, -[2409.46 --> 2412.64] but because here, together, we glimpse heaven. -[2413.04 --> 2417.86] Here, together, we glimpse the very reason You have created this world. -[2417.86 --> 2424.06] Here, together, we participate in the purpose for which You have made each and every one of us. -[2424.26 --> 2428.26] To glorify You and enjoy You forever. -[2428.42 --> 2431.28] And so, give us joy in praising You. -[2431.46 --> 2434.18] Give us joy in our rejoicing. -[2434.58 --> 2439.82] Give us joy as we come into Your holy presence. -[2439.82 --> 2442.48] Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. -[2442.82 --> 2444.46] Here we are. -[2449.28 --> 2453.90] We are here because You are here. -[2453.90 --> 2463.48] We are here because within each and every one of us is a longing for eternity. -[2464.48 --> 2469.04] We are here so that we might rest in You. -[2469.04 --> 2473.94] And so, we pray. -[2475.14 --> 2480.94] Tonight, as we sing songs, as we lift holy hands in worship of You. -[2481.06 --> 2484.76] Tonight, as we are anointed in worship, -[2485.12 --> 2490.98] that we might participate with the very angels of heaven in singing Your praises. -[2490.98 --> 2492.32] That we might sing, -[2492.56 --> 2498.70] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty who was and is and is to come. -[2500.60 --> 2503.56] That here, we might see You, Lord Jesus. -[2504.84 --> 2510.52] And we might know that You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals -[2510.52 --> 2511.96] because You were slain. -[2512.04 --> 2517.50] And with Your blood, You purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation. -[2517.50 --> 2523.62] And You have made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve You, our God. -[2523.70 --> 2529.00] And that one day, Lord Jesus Christ, we will reign with You forever. -[2532.56 --> 2537.98] Until that day, while we wait here. -[2538.64 --> 2540.38] We don't wait idly. -[2541.14 --> 2544.46] We wait fulfilling Your call to our lives. -[2544.46 --> 2551.12] We wait busy at the work that You call us to in mission and proclaiming the gospel, -[2551.36 --> 2554.46] in revealing Your kingdom come and Your kingdom coming, -[2554.60 --> 2557.10] in works of justice and of mercy. -[2560.24 --> 2563.30] And as we wait, we pray, -[2564.00 --> 2566.50] come quickly, Lord Jesus. -[2566.50 --> 2570.28] As we wait, we pray, -[2570.48 --> 2572.70] even so, come. -[2574.22 --> 2576.40] Come, Lord Jesus. -[2578.62 --> 2579.94] Renew us. -[2580.80 --> 2581.62] Fill us. -[2581.94 --> 2582.88] Restore us. -[2583.06 --> 2584.24] Come, Lord Jesus, -[2584.24 --> 2590.46] that we might see the glory of God in You. -[2591.50 --> 2592.24] Come. -[2593.14 --> 2595.60] In Jesus' name we pray. -[2596.50 --> 2621.82] All of creation, -[2622.40 --> 2624.50] all of the earth, -[2624.50 --> 2629.62] Make straight a highway, a path for the Lord. -[2630.96 --> 2635.90] Jesus is coming soon. -[2639.24 --> 2644.48] Call back the sinner, wake up the saints. -[2644.48 --> 2649.68] Let every nation shout up your name. -[2649.68 --> 2656.12] Jesus is coming soon. -[2659.42 --> 2665.72] Like a bride waiting for a groom, -[2665.72 --> 2670.58] we'll be a church ready for you. -[2670.74 --> 2675.72] Every heart longing for our King, -[2675.72 --> 2678.86] we sing, we sing, -[2679.32 --> 2686.34] even so come, Lord Jesus come. -[2688.46 --> 2696.86] Even so come, Lord Jesus come. -[2696.86 --> 2705.18] There will be justice, all will be new. -[2705.88 --> 2710.38] Your name forever, faithful and true. -[2712.24 --> 2716.86] Jesus is coming soon. -[2716.86 --> 2726.54] Like a bride waiting for a groom, -[2726.54 --> 2731.24] we'll be a church ready for you. -[2731.40 --> 2736.64] Every heart longing for our King, -[2736.64 --> 2746.64] we sing, even so come, Lord Jesus come. -[2748.38 --> 2756.64] Even so come, Lord Jesus come. -[2756.64 --> 2766.80] So we wait, we wait for you. -[2768.80 --> 2777.58] God, we wait, you're coming soon. -[2777.58 --> 2798.40] God, we wait, you're coming soon. -[2798.40 --> 2800.24] God, we wait, you're coming soon. -[2800.24 --> 2802.18] Oh, God, we wait, you're coming soon. -[2802.18 --> 2807.56] Like a bride waiting for a groom, -[2807.56 --> 2812.26] we'll be a church ready for you. -[2812.26 --> 2817.80] Every heart longing for our King, -[2818.10 --> 2820.14] we sing. -[2820.14 --> 2827.80] Like a bride waiting for her groom -[2827.80 --> 2832.20] We'll be a church ready for you -[2832.20 --> 2837.68] Every heart longing for our King -[2837.68 --> 2843.22] We sing even so come -[2843.22 --> 2847.72] Lord Jesus come -[2847.72 --> 2853.40] Even so come -[2853.40 --> 2858.30] Lord Jesus come -[2877.72 --> 2887.14] 1 Chronicles 16 23-31 -[2887.14 --> 2896.48] Sing to the Lord all the earth, proclaim his salvation day after day, declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all people. -[2897.72 --> 2904.60] For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise. He is to be feared above all gods, for all the gods of the nations are idols. -[2904.60 --> 2911.34] But the Lord made the heavens. Splendor and majesty are before him. Strength and joy are in his dwelling place. -[2912.14 --> 2916.78] Ascribe to the Lord all you families of nations. Ascribe to the Lord glory and strength. -[2917.82 --> 2922.54] Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name. Bring an offering and come before him. -[2922.54 --> 2925.14] Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness. -[2925.98 --> 2930.56] Tremble before him all the earth. The world is firmly established. It cannot be moved. -[2931.10 --> 2933.54] Let the heavens rejoice. Let the earth be glad. -[2934.04 --> 2936.60] Let them say among the nations, the Lord reigns. -[2936.60 --> 2966.58] Let them glorify. -[2966.58 --> 2984.88] Let them glorify the King of kings. We will glorify the Lamb. We will glorify the Lamb. We will glorify the Lord of lords, who is the great I Am. -[2984.88 --> 3006.56] Lord Jehovah reigns in majesty. We will bow before his throne. We will worship him in righteousness. We will worship him alone. -[3006.56 --> 3028.50] He is Lord of heaven, Lord of earth. He is Lord of heaven, Lord of earth. He is Lord of all who live. He is Lord above the universe. All praise to him we give. -[3028.50 --> 3058.48] All praise to him we give. -[3058.50 --> 3088.48] All praise to him we give. -[3088.50 --> 3093.48] and people and nation. You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, -[3093.94 --> 3098.48] and they will reign on the earth. And then I looked and heard a voice of many angels, -[3098.94 --> 3103.88] numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled -[3103.88 --> 3108.14] the throne and the living creatures and the elders. In a loud voice they sang, Worthy is -[3108.14 --> 3114.02] the Lamb who is slain, receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength, and honor and glory and -[3114.02 --> 3119.54] praise. Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea and all -[3119.54 --> 3125.06] that is in them singing, To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and -[3125.06 --> 3131.64] glory and power forever and ever. The four living creatures said amen, and the elders fell down in worship. -[3144.02 --> 3166.90] He's coming on the clouds, kings and kingdoms will bow down. -[3166.90 --> 3183.98] And every chain will break, as broken hearts declare his praise. Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[3185.82 --> 3196.46] Our God is the Lion, the Lion of Judah. He's roaring with power and fighting -[3196.46 --> 3223.06] our battles. And every knee will bow before him. Our God is the Lamb, the Lamb that was slain. For the sins of the world, his blood breaks the chains. And every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb. -[3223.06 --> 3228.06] Every knee will bow before him. -[3228.06 --> 3230.06] Every knee will bow before him. -[3230.06 --> 3236.06] So open up the gates, take way before the King of kings. -[3236.06 --> 3243.06] So open up the gates, take way before the King of kings. -[3243.06 --> 3248.06] Take way before the King of kings. -[3249.06 --> 3251.06] The God of kings. -[3253.06 --> 3265.06] The God who comes to save is here to set the captives free. Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[3265.06 --> 3283.52] Our God is the Lion, the Lion of Judah, He's roaring with power and fighting our battles, and every knee will bow before Him. -[3283.52 --> 3308.12] Our God is the Lamb, the Lamb that was slain, for the sins of the world, His blood breaks the chains, and every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb, for every knee will bow before Him. -[3308.12 --> 3332.18] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? Who can stop the Lord Almighty? Who can stop the Lord Almighty? Who can stop the Lord? -[3332.18 --> 3340.62] Our God is the Lion, the Lion of Judah -[3340.62 --> 3346.88] He's roaring with power and fighting our battle -[3346.88 --> 3352.24] And every knee will bow before Him -[3352.24 --> 3358.86] Our God is the Lamb, the Lamb that was slain -[3358.86 --> 3365.06] For the sins of the world, His blood breaks the chains -[3365.06 --> 3371.18] And every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb -[3371.18 --> 3376.82] Every knee will bow before Him -[3388.86 --> 3418.84] For the sins of the Lord -[3418.86 --> 3437.00] You are who you say you are -[3437.00 --> 3443.34] You'll do what you say you'll do -[3443.34 --> 3451.22] You'll be who you've always been to us -[3451.22 --> 3453.56] Jesus -[3453.56 --> 3464.36] Our hope is in You alone -[3464.36 --> 3471.22] Our strength in Your mighty name -[3471.22 --> 3479.02] Our peace in the darkest day remains -[3479.02 --> 3481.10] Jesus -[3481.10 --> 3488.98] This we know -[3488.98 --> 3493.22] We will see the enemy run -[3493.22 --> 3495.22] This we know -[3495.22 --> 3495.98] This we know -[3495.98 --> 3500.44] We will see the victory come -[3500.44 --> 3502.78] We hold on -[3502.78 --> 3507.22] To every promise You ever made -[3507.22 --> 3511.22] Jesus, You are unfailing -[3511.22 --> 3521.38] Our God through the wilderness -[3521.38 --> 3528.56] Our joy in the heaviness -[3528.56 --> 3536.36] Our way when it seems there is no way -[3536.36 --> 3538.36] Jesus, You are unfailing -[3538.36 --> 3538.70] Jesus -[3538.70 --> 3543.36] This we know -[3543.36 --> 3545.36] This we know -[3545.36 --> 3546.36] This we know -[3546.36 --> 3550.58] We will see the enemy run -[3550.58 --> 3552.36] This we know -[3552.36 --> 3557.36] We will see the victory come -[3557.36 --> 3558.36] We hold on -[3558.36 --> 3559.36] We hold on -[3559.36 --> 3560.36] We hold on -[3560.36 --> 3563.36] To every promise You ever made -[3563.36 --> 3568.36] Jesus, You are unfailing -[3568.36 --> 3573.36] We trust You -[3573.36 --> 3575.36] We trust You -[3575.36 --> 3583.36] Your ways are higher than our own -[3583.36 --> 3586.36] We trust You -[3586.36 --> 3589.36] We trust You -[3589.36 --> 3596.36] Your ways are higher than our own -[3596.36 --> 3599.36] We trust You -[3599.36 --> 3604.36] We trust You -[3604.38 --> 3605.36] We trust You -[3605.36 --> 3606.36] We trust You -[3606.36 --> 3611.36] Our ways are higher than our own -[3611.36 --> 3616.36] We trust You -[3616.36 --> 3617.36] We trust You -[3617.36 --> 3618.36] This we know -[3618.36 --> 3621.36] We will see the victory come -[3621.36 --> 3622.04] We trust You -[3622.04 --> 3625.36] We trust You -[3625.36 --> 3626.34] We trust You -[3626.34 --> 3634.92] To every promise you ever made, Jesus, you are unfailing. -[3637.14 --> 3644.08] This we know, we will see the enemy run. -[3644.08 --> 3651.08] This we know, we will see the victory come. -[3651.08 --> 3662.70] We hold on to every promise you ever made, Jesus, you are unfailing. -[3681.08 --> 3709.78] Let the King of my heart be the mountain where I run. -[3709.78 --> 3716.24] The fountain I drink from, oh, he is my song. -[3716.68 --> 3722.78] Let the King of my heart be the shadow where I hide. -[3723.80 --> 3728.78] The ransom for my life, oh, he is my song. -[3728.78 --> 3734.78] You are good, good, oh. -[3735.68 --> 3741.28] You are good, good, oh. -[3741.28 --> 3748.28] You are good, good, oh. -[3748.28 --> 3755.28] You are good, good, oh. -[3755.28 --> 3763.38] Let the King of my heart be the wind inside my sails. -[3763.38 --> 3769.52] The anchor in the waves, oh, he is my song. -[3769.52 --> 3776.48] Let the King of my heart be the fire inside my veins. -[3776.48 --> 3782.68] The echo of my days, oh, he is my song. -[3782.68 --> 3789.68] You are good, good, oh. -[3789.68 --> 3795.68] You are good, good, oh. -[3795.68 --> 3801.68] You are good, good, oh. -[3801.68 --> 3808.68] You are good, good, oh. -[3808.68 --> 3810.68] You are good, oh. -[3810.68 --> 3815.68] You're never gonna let me down. -[3815.68 --> 3823.96] Never gonna let me down. -[3823.96 --> 3835.64] You are never gonna let, never gonna let me down. -[3835.64 --> 3837.64] down -[3842.64 --> 3844.64] you are good -[3844.64 --> 3846.64] good -[3846.64 --> 3848.64] oh -[3848.64 --> 3850.64] you are -[3850.64 --> 3852.64] good -[3852.64 --> 3854.64] oh -[3854.64 --> 3856.64] you are -[3856.64 --> 3858.64] good -[3858.64 --> 3860.64] good -[3860.64 --> 3862.64] oh -[3865.64 --> 3879.64] when the night -[3879.64 --> 3881.64] is holding -[3881.64 --> 3883.64] on -[3883.64 --> 3885.64] to me -[3885.64 --> 3887.64] God -[3887.64 --> 3889.64] is holding -[3889.64 --> 3891.64] on -[3891.64 --> 3895.64] when the night -[3895.64 --> 3897.64] is holding -[3897.64 --> 3899.64] on -[3899.64 --> 3901.64] to me -[3901.64 --> 3903.64] God -[3903.64 --> 3905.64] is holding -[3905.64 --> 3907.64] on -[3911.64 --> 3915.64] Pastor Chris is going to come up and give us a blessing before our final song. -[3915.64 --> 3922.64] I just wanted to say we don't have a schedule of future dates of praise and prayer but we do plan on having more services. -[3922.64 --> 3925.64] Tonight we picked a bunch of songs that were our favorites. -[3925.64 --> 3933.64] In future evenings we hope to have different types of focuses like worship in our many cultures, the work of the Holy Spirit and more. -[3933.64 --> 3942.64] So if you have any feedback or ideas please feel free to contact Sarah or myself and we'd be happy to hear from you. Thank you. -[3942.64 --> 3971.64] I needed that tonight. I don't know about you. Bless God. God's blessed us and he blesses us in our going. And so I invite you to take a posture of receipt, whatever that is, holding your hands out, opening your heart up, lifting your eyes to the heavens. -[3971.64 --> 3976.64] But hear these words of God spoken over you. -[3976.64 --> 3981.64] The Lord bless you. -[3981.64 --> 3983.64] And keep you. -[3983.64 --> 3989.64] The Lord turn his face towards you and be gracious to you. -[3989.64 --> 3996.64] May God look at you and smile. -[3996.64 --> 4001.64] May he give you his peace. -[4001.64 --> 4005.64] And all God's people said, Amen. -[4005.64 --> 4009.64] Amen. -[4009.64 --> 4032.64] Lord, my heart can grow so far away and cold. -[4032.64 --> 4039.64] And yet for me your love is still the same. -[4039.64 --> 4047.64] Lord, I bend my knee in awe and fear of thee. -[4047.64 --> 4055.64] My head bow down in reverence to your name. -[4055.64 --> 4056.64] I lift your name. -[4056.64 --> 4060.64] I lift your name. -[4060.64 --> 4062.64] Your holy name. -[4062.64 --> 4071.64] Jehovah God, Elohim. -[4071.64 --> 4072.64] The great I am. -[4072.64 --> 4076.64] The great I am. -[4076.64 --> 4079.64] The risen man. -[4079.64 --> 4086.64] My comforter and king. -[4086.64 --> 4096.64] Lord, my heart's desire is to be filled with spirit fire. -[4096.64 --> 4103.64] My purpose is to worship you alone. -[4103.64 --> 4104.64] Open up my soul. -[4104.64 --> 4108.64] Open up my soul. -[4108.64 --> 4113.64] To worship and adore. -[4113.64 --> 4118.64] To be a fragrance offered to your throne. -[4118.64 --> 4119.64] I lift your name. -[4119.64 --> 4120.64] I lift your name. -[4120.64 --> 4121.64] Your holy name. -[4121.64 --> 4123.64] I lift your name. -[4123.64 --> 4124.64] Your holy name. -[4124.64 --> 4125.64] Jehovah God, Elohim. -[4125.64 --> 4126.64] The great I am. -[4126.64 --> 4127.64] The risen man. -[4127.64 --> 4128.64] My comforter and king. -[4128.64 --> 4129.64] The great I am. -[4129.64 --> 4131.64] The risen man. -[4131.64 --> 4132.64] My comforter and king. -[4132.64 --> 4137.64] The great I am. -[4137.64 --> 4139.64] The risen man. -[4139.64 --> 4143.64] The risen man. -[4143.64 --> 4152.64] My comforter and king. -[4152.64 --> 4154.64] I lift your name. -[4154.64 --> 4157.64] Your holy name. -[4157.64 --> 4160.64] Jehovah God, Elohim. -[4160.64 --> 4169.64] Jehovah God, Elohim. -[4169.64 --> 4173.64] The great I am. -[4173.64 --> 4178.64] The risen man. -[4178.64 --> 4188.64] My comforter and king. -[4190.64 --> 4191.64] I know aぶ. -[4191.64 --> 4193.64] I never fr beaucoup. -[4193.64 --> 4199.64] I want all the earth to stand. -[4199.64 --> 4200.64] My here. -[4200.64 --> 4204.64] Wow... -[4204.64 --> 4234.62] Thank you. diff --git "a/Return from Exile \357\275\234 Ezra 1_1-4_summary.txt" "b/Return from Exile \357\275\234 Ezra 1_1-4_summary.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 9a07d696441125a812738fbfc280cc95a80156d8..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Return from Exile \357\275\234 Ezra 1_1-4_summary.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,41 +0,0 @@ -• Restrictions have been lifted, but the community is struggling with how to proceed -• The speaker notes a sense of celebration and mourning simultaneously due to those who are not present -• Inequality and injustice are major concerns, particularly in light of recent events -• The community is divided by differences in worldview and ideology -• A "false narrative" has emerged that suggests disagreement leads to fear or hate -• The passage from Ezra 1:1-4 is introduced as a relevant context for the community's situation -• The passage describes the return of the Jewish people to Jerusalem to rebuild their temple, mirroring the community's own return to in-person worship. -• The kingdom of Israel divided into two parts under Rehoboam's rule -• The northern kingdom of Israel had 19 evil kings and was eventually conquered by Assyria in 721 BC -• The southern kingdom of Judah had 20 kings, with only eight being considered good in God's eyes, before being conquered by Babylon in 605 BC -• The Jews were in exile for 70 years during which time they experienced trials such as being thrown into fiery furnaces and lion's dens -• Persia conquered Babylon and allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple under King Cyrus' decree -• God's sovereignty is demonstrated through his use of people and situations to fulfill his purposes, as seen in King Cyrus' unexpected proclamation allowing the Jews to rebuild the temple -• Isaiah's book is out of chronological order in the Bible -• God's plan was set in motion 150 years before Cyrus' birth to rebuild the temple -• Isaiah prophesied about Cyrus, who would be used by God to bring back the Israelites from exile -• God is sovereign and works through all things, even if it seems chaotic -• God keeps his promises, as seen in multiple Bible passages including Ezra and Jeremiah -• The Israelites were asked to sing songs while in captivity -• God keeps his promises, citing examples from the Old Testament -• God is sovereign and provides for his people -• God provided the Jewish people with provisions after their return from Babylonian exile -• The text emphasizes that God's provision is not just about material wealth but about fulfilling his purposes -• God provides what is needed to fulfill His plans -• The focus is not on accumulating wealth but on fulfilling God's promises -• The church has received increased giving during the pandemic -• The generosity of members has helped the church through a difficult time and enabled new initiatives, including: - • A mercy ministry initiative with other churches in Langley - • Live streaming options for worship services - • New pastor hiring is no longer a concern due to sufficient finances -• Generosity and giving -• God's provision in finances -• God's provision beyond finances, including hope, peace, comfort, support, community, and strength -• God's mandate for love and serving others -• The ultimate provision of God: His Son, Jesus Christ, who offers salvation and eternal life -• God's sovereignty and faithfulness -• God providing for us regardless of circumstances -• Thanking God for keeping promises and covenant relationships -• Remembering God's presence, spirit, and love in our lives -• Gratitude for Jesus Christ's sacrifice on the cross -• Remembrance of his suffering and conquest over sin and death during communion \ No newline at end of file diff --git "a/Return from Exile \357\275\234 Ezra 1_1-4_transcript.txt" "b/Return from Exile \357\275\234 Ezra 1_1-4_transcript.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 79835b4d36d35d1acfd55728bd8d1eb07bee90d2..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Return from Exile \357\275\234 Ezra 1_1-4_transcript.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,664 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 9.20] It is good to be back in the sanctuary again, isn't it? -[10.40 --> 14.16] Brothers and sisters, both here and those of you who are joining us online, -[14.96 --> 16.58] it is a strange Sunday, though. -[17.34 --> 20.80] As good as it is to be back, we're not back as we should be. -[21.56 --> 22.56] And that's strange. -[23.24 --> 26.12] We celebrate, and yet we maybe mourn a little bit. -[27.08 --> 32.10] Several of us leaders, of Emmanuel's leaders, got together to plan this upcoming season -[32.10 --> 34.44] that we find ourselves in as restrictions have been lifted. -[34.82 --> 38.70] And one of the things that was discussed was this actual Sunday service, -[38.78 --> 39.64] this one we're in right now. -[41.12 --> 42.78] We didn't know what the vibe was going to be. -[43.20 --> 47.00] We weren't sure if we should be celebrating that we can come back together -[47.00 --> 49.54] or lamenting that not everybody is here. -[49.54 --> 55.42] We didn't know if this would be a joyous Sunday because we're back in the sanctuary -[55.42 --> 58.06] or a hard Sunday because we're missing some faces. -[58.20 --> 61.04] Should we celebrate the fact that we have this technology -[61.04 --> 63.88] that we can come together as a whole body of Christ? -[64.92 --> 68.18] Or should we be mourning various losses that maybe we have gone through -[68.18 --> 70.62] over these past several weeks and months? -[71.28 --> 77.48] On top of that, with inequality and injustice on the forefronts of people's minds right now -[77.48 --> 80.10] due to the events that are happening both in the States and in Canada -[80.10 --> 82.12] with race, with hate. -[82.60 --> 86.70] How do we bring love to this culture that is so very divided? -[87.38 --> 89.88] And it goes beyond the division of race that we see, -[90.36 --> 92.96] but it's this division of political worldviews, -[93.52 --> 97.46] the division of how to solve some of these problems within the systems we find ourselves in, -[97.52 --> 103.22] and just this growing false narrative that is continuing on, -[103.22 --> 109.30] and this idea, this false idea that if we don't believe the same thing as our neighbors, -[109.40 --> 110.76] we must fear or hate them. -[112.02 --> 116.56] And that false narrative that is digging deeper and deeper into our culture, -[116.56 --> 121.60] it continues to make the division wider and wider and that chasm greater. -[123.24 --> 127.36] And yet we can gather together and be here, and that is good. -[127.36 --> 132.46] We're called to rejoice when others rejoice and mourn when others mourn, -[132.50 --> 139.66] but in this current context, how do we rejoice and mourn and celebrate and lament at the same time? -[140.30 --> 143.00] What are we to do here today? -[144.54 --> 151.24] Where is the hope in the midst of this sorrow and joy and just overall strangeness? -[151.24 --> 157.18] What we can do, brothers and sisters, is we can open up the Word. -[157.38 --> 162.16] We can open up the Word of God, because in the Word of God, there is truth. -[163.30 --> 168.42] We believe that our only comfort in life and in death is that we belong both body and soul to Jesus Christ. -[168.72 --> 173.28] Well, this book is His Word to us, and this is where we will find the truth. -[173.60 --> 180.42] This is where we will find what we need to go through what is happening today in all our lives, -[180.42 --> 184.02] be it good, be it bad, be it hard, be it comforting. -[185.62 --> 190.16] One of the best things we can do is listen right now, but it depends on who we listen to. -[190.74 --> 194.26] And first and foremost, we need to listen to Christ. -[194.48 --> 196.02] We need to listen to Him first. -[197.92 --> 202.76] And so I picked a passage today that I believe has some parallels to our current context. -[204.24 --> 208.16] And so we're going to open up the Word of God, and I invite you to pull out your Bibles if you've got them with you today. -[208.16 --> 211.50] Today, we're going to open up the Word of God and look at a passage in Ezra. -[211.68 --> 215.32] We're going to be reading the first four verses in Ezra together. -[215.78 --> 217.82] And so at home, please pull out your Bibles as well. -[217.90 --> 221.62] Now, before we quickly look into it, before we look into these first four verses, -[222.36 --> 224.66] here's why I thought this passage applies to us today. -[225.72 --> 231.88] See, Ezra is a book all about the exiled Jewish people being allowed in limited capacity -[231.88 --> 234.46] to go back to Jerusalem to rebuild their temple. -[234.46 --> 240.50] And of course, today, here we are, allowed to come back into the sanctuary in a limited capacity. -[241.54 --> 246.90] In Ezra, these Jewish people were subjects of unjust and an oppressive nation in Babylon. -[247.16 --> 252.76] And today, oppression and injustice are needing a ton of discussion where we find ourselves. -[254.40 --> 258.76] In Ezra, the Israelites, they just spent 70 years in exile in Babylon. -[258.76 --> 264.30] And today, we have just spent the last three months in this sort of soft isolation on our couches. -[264.54 --> 269.66] So the parallel isn't quite perfect necessarily, but I think it's close enough that we can open up our Bibles today. -[269.72 --> 273.68] So please, read with me these first four verses found in Ezra chapter 1. -[273.68 --> 294.20] This is what the king of Persia says. -[294.20 --> 300.82] The Lord, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth, -[300.94 --> 307.16] and he has appointed me to build a temple for him at Jerusalem in Judah. -[308.10 --> 314.10] Any of his people among you may go up to Jerusalem in Judah and build the temple of the Lord, the God of Israel, -[314.30 --> 318.48] the God who is in Jerusalem, and may their God be with them. -[318.48 --> 326.50] And in any locality where survivors may now be living, the people are to provide them with silver and gold, -[326.58 --> 332.88] with goods and livestocks, and with freewill offerings for the temple of God in Jerusalem. -[334.08 --> 335.38] This is the word of the Lord. -[337.94 --> 345.30] Now to start, I'm going to power through an obnoxiously quick history lesson to put this passage into context. -[345.30 --> 349.98] Okay, so way back in 1 Kings, Israel wanted kings. -[350.64 --> 351.96] And so God gave them Saul. -[352.06 --> 356.36] But God's warning was, you need to remain faithful to me, or you will, in essence, be conquered. -[357.14 --> 361.28] Well, Saul was their king, and after Saul came David, and after David came Solomon, -[361.40 --> 362.98] and after Solomon came Rehoboam. -[363.26 --> 367.88] And when Rehoboam was king, the nation was already on this terribly sinful trajectory. -[368.60 --> 372.38] In fact, when Rehoboam was king, the kingdom of Israel divided into two parts. -[372.38 --> 376.42] You had the northern kingdom of Israel, and you had the southern kingdom of Judah. -[376.90 --> 382.06] In the northern kingdom of Israel, in the following years, they had 19 kings in succession. -[382.98 --> 386.52] All 19 of those kings were terrible. -[387.22 --> 392.36] They were just super evil, idol-worshiping, fanatically wicked kings. -[392.36 --> 398.16] And in 721 BC, Assyria came in and just wiped them out. -[399.08 --> 400.14] Just took them over. -[402.16 --> 406.24] Meanwhile, during all of this, the southern kingdom of Judah, they had kings too. -[406.34 --> 407.98] They had 20 kings in succession. -[408.56 --> 409.56] They did a little bit better. -[410.24 --> 413.76] They had eight kings that God said were good in the eyes of the Lord. -[413.76 --> 418.00] But yet, eight kings out of 20 still is not that good of a percentage. -[418.46 --> 423.92] And in 605 BC, Babylon comes in and conquers Judah as well. -[424.58 --> 427.78] Takes all of the people of Judah into exile. -[428.94 --> 430.42] This time to the Babylonians. -[430.80 --> 434.46] So the Jews, they are in exile for 70 years. -[434.98 --> 437.18] And in those 70 years, if you remember your Bibles, -[437.26 --> 440.64] you get stories like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego being thrown into the furnace. -[440.64 --> 443.64] And you get the whole book of Daniel and the whole book of Ezekiel. -[443.76 --> 447.12] All of that happens in the 70-year time when they are in exile. -[448.04 --> 450.14] And now, we're landing the history lesson here. -[450.78 --> 454.24] But after 70 years in exile, Persia comes along. -[454.66 --> 455.88] And they conquer Babylon. -[457.32 --> 458.60] And then we get to our text. -[459.10 --> 460.44] After Persia takes over, -[461.02 --> 464.74] some Jewish people, that they can return to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. -[465.44 --> 467.06] And that was our text today. -[467.06 --> 472.44] That's a crazy story, if you think about it. -[472.72 --> 475.06] God's people, they're in exile for 70 years. -[475.36 --> 477.06] They've been thrown into fiery furnaces. -[477.40 --> 479.10] They've been chucked into lion's dens. -[479.52 --> 483.08] And then, the Babylonians, who have been tormenting them for 70 years, -[483.18 --> 484.66] they get overrun by Persia. -[485.52 --> 486.56] And the king of Persia, -[487.10 --> 489.54] all of a sudden, for really no reason at all, -[489.88 --> 491.32] he says, eh, go home. -[491.92 --> 492.68] It's fine. -[493.90 --> 495.00] You know what? Just go home. -[495.00 --> 497.56] And, you know what? Build a temple for that god that you worship. -[497.64 --> 498.22] He'd like that. -[498.56 --> 499.78] He seems like a cool god. -[500.64 --> 501.54] Build a temple for him. -[501.56 --> 503.50] You know what? Take my gold and silver, too. -[503.56 --> 504.14] That will help. -[506.02 --> 507.76] Think about that. That is fascinating. -[508.28 --> 509.92] The Persians were not God's people. -[511.08 --> 513.68] Cyrus was not worshipping Yahweh in any means. -[515.24 --> 517.90] Cyrus gains absolutely nothing by doing this. -[517.90 --> 522.52] In fact, he risks losing the loyalty of his own people -[522.52 --> 524.74] by releasing the Jews back to Jerusalem. -[525.58 --> 528.18] This was not a normal practice for kings -[528.18 --> 530.28] in the conquering of all nations business. -[532.44 --> 533.46] But it happens. -[535.16 --> 537.38] So why does Cyrus make this proclamation? -[537.66 --> 540.64] Why does he decree that the Jewish people can go back -[540.64 --> 541.76] and build this temple? -[541.76 --> 544.90] And how does this relate to us right now, where we are? -[546.98 --> 548.32] Well, let's look at three truths -[548.32 --> 550.52] that come out of this passage here in Ezra, -[550.56 --> 552.94] in this event in the history of the Israelites -[552.94 --> 554.60] and the history of the planet. -[555.74 --> 557.06] The first truth is this. -[557.74 --> 559.48] God is sovereign. -[560.74 --> 562.70] He is in control of all things. -[562.70 --> 567.60] He even uses people and places and situations -[567.60 --> 575.36] that seem unusable in order to fulfill his works, -[575.54 --> 579.14] in order to fulfill his purposes for his people. -[579.24 --> 580.88] Notice the first verse of our text. -[581.24 --> 585.18] The Lord moved the heart of King Cyrus, -[585.62 --> 587.84] king of Persia, to make a proclamation in the realm. -[588.04 --> 591.64] The Lord moved Cyrus' heart. -[592.86 --> 594.00] The ESV says it this way. -[594.00 --> 597.58] The Lord stirred in the heart of King Cyrus. -[597.60 --> 601.24] The original Hebrew word there, -[601.34 --> 602.38] the word for moved or stirred, -[602.62 --> 603.64] it means to awaken. -[604.64 --> 607.48] So God awoke Cyrus to his plan. -[607.62 --> 610.52] God awoke his sovereignty to Cyrus. -[611.34 --> 612.74] And Cyrus had to act on it. -[614.68 --> 617.08] The hand of the Lord can reach from anywhere, -[617.42 --> 619.58] through anyone, and do anything. -[620.18 --> 624.78] He is in control of this world. -[624.78 --> 627.86] In fact, this is fascinating, -[628.24 --> 630.88] about 150 years before this happened, -[631.36 --> 634.10] 150 years before Cyrus made this proclamation, -[634.80 --> 637.80] the prophet Isaiah prophesied all of it. -[638.48 --> 639.56] Now I have to highlight this -[639.56 --> 641.32] because it might seem confusing in your Bibles. -[641.68 --> 642.90] Even though the book of Isaiah -[642.90 --> 645.20] comes after the book of Ezra in your Bibles, -[645.80 --> 648.28] the events of Isaiah happened beforehand. -[648.90 --> 649.50] The Bible's not, -[649.58 --> 651.74] the Old Testament's not in chronological order that way. -[651.74 --> 655.90] So Isaiah comes along 150 years before this event, -[656.06 --> 658.34] about 80 years before they're even in exile. -[660.14 --> 661.28] And he predicts this. -[661.36 --> 662.20] He prophesies this. -[662.26 --> 663.80] In Isaiah 45, we read this, -[663.88 --> 665.46] and I'm going to condense it a little bit, -[665.48 --> 667.08] but this is what Isaiah 45 says. -[667.36 --> 668.86] Feel free to open it and follow along. -[669.72 --> 670.56] Isaiah 45 says, -[670.56 --> 672.98] This is what the Lord says to his anointed, -[673.74 --> 674.36] to Cyrus, -[675.00 --> 677.14] whose right hand I will take hold of -[677.14 --> 679.72] to subdue nations before him -[679.72 --> 681.90] and to strip kings of their armor. -[682.26 --> 684.30] I will go before you, says the Lord, -[684.62 --> 685.84] so that you may know -[685.84 --> 688.38] that I am the Lord, the God, -[688.72 --> 689.94] the God of Israel. -[690.34 --> 692.62] I summon you, Cyrus, -[692.98 --> 694.28] by name -[694.28 --> 696.70] and bestow on you a title of honor, -[696.70 --> 700.42] though you do not acknowledge me, -[701.14 --> 703.60] I am the Lord and there is no other. -[706.34 --> 707.80] 150 years before this, -[707.84 --> 709.04] Cyrus isn't even alive yet. -[710.30 --> 711.46] And God is saying, -[712.10 --> 713.82] even though Cyrus isn't alive yet, -[714.06 --> 716.08] and even though he will not acknowledge me, -[716.56 --> 718.46] the Lord, the sovereign God of all things, -[718.54 --> 719.92] I will work through him -[719.92 --> 723.00] to start rebuilding God's temple. -[723.00 --> 727.92] Way before any of this ever took place, -[728.48 --> 729.48] God was in control. -[729.80 --> 730.82] God is above all. -[731.34 --> 731.98] He is in all. -[732.08 --> 733.20] He works through all. -[733.32 --> 735.94] He rules over his people at all times. -[737.06 --> 739.28] He has control over the universe, -[739.92 --> 742.34] even if it seems like things are falling apart. -[743.78 --> 746.88] Whether you're in the middle of a time in exile -[746.88 --> 749.34] or in the middle of a pandemic. -[749.34 --> 752.34] He was there for Israel -[752.34 --> 754.20] when they were slaves in a foreign land, -[754.26 --> 755.12] when they were oppressed. -[756.60 --> 757.82] He is for us. -[757.94 --> 758.80] He is for all, -[758.90 --> 761.42] even if we are feeling oppressed -[761.42 --> 762.30] or powerless -[762.30 --> 764.58] in this land that we are in right now. -[764.66 --> 767.16] It is God who is over all of it. -[768.08 --> 769.14] God who brings hope. -[769.32 --> 772.06] God who is sovereign over everything. -[774.96 --> 776.30] Some of you may be experiencing -[776.30 --> 779.02] this truth powerfully today. -[780.34 --> 781.70] Others may not be. -[783.78 --> 785.66] But when we look at this text, -[786.10 --> 787.24] let me encourage you. -[787.90 --> 790.14] Let me encourage you all to understand -[790.14 --> 792.46] the magnitude of God's power -[792.46 --> 795.22] and the scope of his sovereign love -[795.22 --> 796.84] for us all. -[796.98 --> 798.88] Brothers, sisters, friends, -[799.44 --> 800.38] God's got you. -[801.86 --> 803.18] That's truth number one. -[803.18 --> 807.44] The second truth is that God keeps his promises. -[808.12 --> 810.18] In both the books of Isaiah and Jeremiah, -[810.82 --> 812.54] we know that this is true. -[813.88 --> 816.40] God promised that he would bring his people back -[816.40 --> 817.38] to his homeland -[817.38 --> 819.82] through both of those prophets. -[819.96 --> 820.82] In Jeremiah, actually, -[820.98 --> 822.12] this text references it. -[822.50 --> 824.28] In Ezra 1 verse 1, -[824.44 --> 825.40] it references this. -[826.32 --> 828.86] And it references Jeremiah 29 verse 10 -[828.86 --> 829.84] where God says, -[830.44 --> 832.66] when 70 years are completed for Babylon, -[833.18 --> 834.34] I will visit you -[834.34 --> 837.38] and keep my good promise to you, -[837.96 --> 839.74] causing you to return to this place. -[841.86 --> 842.94] God promises, -[843.26 --> 843.96] and then he delivers. -[843.96 --> 848.16] But I do bet a lot of the people of Judah, -[848.28 --> 849.06] they would have lost hope. -[849.16 --> 850.86] 70 years is a long time. -[851.38 --> 853.08] That is a long time to be in exile. -[854.48 --> 855.48] Psalm 137, -[855.62 --> 856.46] whose scholars agree, -[856.56 --> 857.34] was probably written -[857.34 --> 858.88] while they were in captivity in Babylon. -[859.02 --> 859.52] It says this. -[860.34 --> 861.30] Psalm 137 says, -[861.40 --> 862.58] By the rivers of Babylon -[862.58 --> 864.52] we sat and wept -[864.52 --> 866.34] when we remembered Zion. -[867.34 --> 869.42] On the poplars we hung our harps, -[869.50 --> 870.46] for there our captives -[870.46 --> 871.66] asked us for songs. -[871.66 --> 875.30] Our tormentors demanded songs of joy. -[875.38 --> 875.76] They said, -[876.24 --> 877.96] Sing us one of the songs of Zion. -[880.48 --> 882.44] How can we sing the songs of the Lord -[882.44 --> 883.68] while we are in a foreign land? -[885.80 --> 887.02] God's people were worried -[887.02 --> 887.94] that he had left them. -[888.94 --> 890.52] But God keeps his promises. -[891.90 --> 892.70] He promised Noah -[892.70 --> 894.64] he would never destroy the world again -[894.64 --> 896.52] to rid it of sin. -[897.12 --> 897.76] And he delivered. -[898.44 --> 899.84] He promised to give Abraham -[899.84 --> 901.42] more descendants than the stars. -[901.42 --> 902.06] And he delivered. -[902.28 --> 903.88] He promised he would deliver -[903.88 --> 905.32] the Israelites from Egypt. -[905.48 --> 906.24] And he delivered. -[906.44 --> 908.08] He promised he would deliver Judah -[908.08 --> 909.38] from his captives in Babylon -[909.38 --> 911.24] through a king named Cyrus. -[911.58 --> 912.58] And he delivered. -[914.40 --> 917.68] And time and time again -[917.68 --> 919.36] throughout the whole Old Testament -[919.36 --> 923.20] he promised a Messiah would come -[923.20 --> 925.28] to save us from the weight -[925.28 --> 926.26] of sin and death. -[926.26 --> 928.52] And he delivered. -[929.72 --> 930.96] He delivered his son -[930.96 --> 932.18] to die for us all. -[934.78 --> 936.72] Something we will once again remember -[936.72 --> 937.86] as we partake in communion -[937.86 --> 938.80] in just a few moments. -[940.60 --> 942.10] God promised his spirit -[942.10 --> 944.04] to all who believe. -[944.72 --> 946.16] And he delivered that too. -[947.60 --> 949.32] And he promised to be with us always -[949.32 --> 951.38] to the very end of the age. -[951.38 --> 955.20] God keeps his promise. -[957.66 --> 959.38] No matter where we are in life today -[959.38 --> 960.50] no matter what is happening -[960.50 --> 961.16] in this world -[961.16 --> 961.96] in your life -[961.96 --> 963.18] or in the world around you -[963.18 --> 963.56] remember -[963.56 --> 966.22] God keeps his promises. -[966.52 --> 967.70] He's promised to be with you. -[968.12 --> 968.98] He is with you. -[969.34 --> 970.12] You are not alone. -[970.94 --> 971.74] So God is sovereign. -[972.16 --> 973.14] God keeps his promises. -[973.74 --> 974.32] And thirdly -[974.32 --> 976.82] God provides for his people. -[976.82 --> 977.64] The final verse -[977.64 --> 979.02] of this text highlights this. -[980.44 --> 981.96] The final verse says this. -[982.84 --> 983.72] And in any locality -[983.72 --> 985.26] where survivors may now be living -[985.26 --> 986.92] the people are to provide them -[986.92 --> 988.32] with silver and gold -[988.32 --> 989.52] with goods and livestock -[989.52 --> 991.24] and with free will offerings -[991.24 --> 993.02] for the temple of God -[993.02 --> 994.04] in Jerusalem. -[995.24 --> 996.28] So not only did God -[996.28 --> 997.40] provide the Jewish people -[997.40 --> 998.34] with their land back -[998.34 --> 999.62] but through Cyrus -[999.62 --> 1001.22] they also left with tons -[1001.22 --> 1002.78] of provisions as well. -[1003.40 --> 1004.46] If you were to keep reading -[1004.46 --> 1005.04] in Ezra 1 -[1005.04 --> 1006.42] if you get to verses 9 and 11 -[1006.42 --> 1007.50] you get to see -[1007.50 --> 1008.94] everything that they were -[1008.94 --> 1010.02] that they took with them -[1010.02 --> 1010.94] that Cyrus gave them. -[1011.34 --> 1013.48] It came up to 5,400 articles -[1013.48 --> 1014.50] pots, pans, dishes -[1014.50 --> 1016.26] of gold and silver -[1016.26 --> 1017.24] with them. -[1018.64 --> 1019.48] Going back home -[1019.48 --> 1020.04] is one thing. -[1020.68 --> 1021.28] Going back home -[1021.28 --> 1022.26] with everything you need -[1022.26 --> 1023.58] to start rebuilding a temple -[1023.58 --> 1025.02] and rebuilding a society -[1025.02 --> 1026.48] is another. -[1031.26 --> 1032.58] God knew what his people needed -[1032.58 --> 1034.20] to fulfill his purposes for them -[1034.20 --> 1035.82] and he provided it for them. -[1035.82 --> 1037.10] Now to be clear -[1037.10 --> 1038.88] this is not a prosperity gospel. -[1039.22 --> 1040.30] This is not a text -[1040.30 --> 1041.48] about simply asking -[1041.48 --> 1042.18] for what you want -[1042.18 --> 1042.62] hard enough -[1042.62 --> 1043.20] and getting it. -[1043.26 --> 1044.12] That is not what Ezra -[1044.12 --> 1044.64] is getting at. -[1044.82 --> 1045.56] That is not the truth -[1045.56 --> 1046.16] of this text. -[1046.52 --> 1047.26] The Jewish people -[1047.26 --> 1048.22] needed gold and silver -[1048.22 --> 1049.18] in order to go -[1049.18 --> 1050.40] and fulfill God's promises -[1050.40 --> 1051.38] of rebuilding the temple -[1051.38 --> 1052.72] so God gave it to them. -[1053.16 --> 1053.98] Chances are many of us -[1053.98 --> 1055.74] do not need 5,400 articles -[1055.74 --> 1056.68] of gold and silver -[1056.68 --> 1057.34] plates and dishes -[1057.34 --> 1058.38] to be able to fulfill -[1058.38 --> 1059.04] God's promises -[1059.04 --> 1059.66] in this world -[1059.66 --> 1060.52] that we are in right now. -[1060.66 --> 1061.56] So that is not the point -[1061.56 --> 1062.12] of this text. -[1062.12 --> 1065.32] However, God does provide -[1065.32 --> 1066.36] whatever you need -[1066.36 --> 1068.18] to fulfill his plans -[1068.18 --> 1069.62] for you personally -[1069.62 --> 1070.82] in this world. -[1071.52 --> 1072.62] He also gives -[1072.62 --> 1073.60] what we need -[1073.60 --> 1074.52] as a church -[1074.52 --> 1076.34] to function as his body -[1076.34 --> 1077.82] here in Langley, B.C. -[1077.82 --> 1082.20] Now, I'm going to linger -[1082.20 --> 1083.52] on finances for a second -[1083.52 --> 1084.24] and then I'm going -[1084.24 --> 1084.92] to move on to them -[1084.92 --> 1087.16] because this is not a text -[1087.16 --> 1088.20] simply about finances -[1088.20 --> 1089.44] but there is a really -[1089.44 --> 1090.18] sweet example -[1090.18 --> 1090.90] about how God -[1090.90 --> 1092.04] has been working -[1092.04 --> 1092.80] in this church -[1092.80 --> 1094.46] that we need to celebrate today. -[1094.98 --> 1095.98] When this pandemic -[1095.98 --> 1096.68] hit in March, -[1096.92 --> 1097.78] many of us -[1097.78 --> 1099.12] were praying for each other -[1099.12 --> 1100.06] because we were worried -[1100.06 --> 1100.86] about how it was going -[1100.86 --> 1101.90] to affect our lives. -[1102.00 --> 1102.62] Eric mentioned this -[1102.62 --> 1103.18] in his prayer. -[1103.76 --> 1104.36] We weren't sure -[1104.36 --> 1105.76] what our job situations -[1105.76 --> 1106.20] were going to be. -[1106.20 --> 1106.70] We weren't sure -[1106.70 --> 1108.06] what our financial situations -[1108.06 --> 1108.56] were going to be -[1108.56 --> 1109.52] or our livelihoods. -[1109.94 --> 1110.44] And so our church, -[1110.56 --> 1110.90] we were praying -[1110.90 --> 1111.44] for each other. -[1111.80 --> 1112.70] We prayed and feared -[1112.70 --> 1113.56] for people's jobs -[1113.56 --> 1114.88] and for people's livelihoods -[1114.88 --> 1116.24] but we were also concerned -[1116.24 --> 1117.76] and praying for this church -[1117.76 --> 1118.98] because we didn't know -[1118.98 --> 1119.60] how all of that -[1119.60 --> 1121.48] was going to affect us here. -[1121.90 --> 1122.44] We didn't know -[1122.44 --> 1123.52] how the church's budget -[1123.52 --> 1125.38] was going to be affected. -[1125.64 --> 1126.66] We were already behind -[1126.66 --> 1129.06] and what was going to happen -[1129.06 --> 1129.68] when this pandemic -[1129.68 --> 1130.36] hit full force? -[1130.98 --> 1131.52] How are we going -[1131.52 --> 1132.26] to be able to hire -[1132.26 --> 1133.38] a pastor, for example, -[1134.30 --> 1134.92] once this hit? -[1134.92 --> 1136.10] So we were praying. -[1136.18 --> 1136.64] We were worried. -[1137.60 --> 1138.30] But brothers and sisters, -[1138.40 --> 1139.40] over the last three months, -[1139.62 --> 1140.38] not only have people -[1140.38 --> 1140.96] kept giving, -[1141.70 --> 1142.70] giving has gone up -[1142.70 --> 1144.66] in the last three months -[1144.66 --> 1145.58] to this church. -[1146.54 --> 1148.10] Your generosity has helped us -[1148.10 --> 1149.16] through a very hard time. -[1149.40 --> 1150.36] It's actually allowed us -[1150.36 --> 1151.64] to do some very cool things. -[1151.92 --> 1153.18] Our deacons have taken on -[1153.18 --> 1154.38] this very cool -[1154.38 --> 1155.52] mercy ministry initiative -[1155.52 --> 1156.56] with other churches -[1156.56 --> 1157.24] around Langley -[1157.24 --> 1158.04] called Hello Church -[1158.04 --> 1159.28] where anybody in Langley -[1159.28 --> 1160.62] can call or sign up -[1160.62 --> 1161.14] on this number -[1161.14 --> 1161.66] and a church -[1161.66 --> 1162.70] will help support us. -[1162.76 --> 1163.46] Our church is involved -[1163.46 --> 1163.80] with that. -[1163.80 --> 1164.90] We've been able -[1164.90 --> 1165.82] to set up live streaming -[1165.82 --> 1166.54] options right now -[1166.54 --> 1167.32] so that we can gather -[1167.32 --> 1168.52] in this church of 40 people -[1168.52 --> 1169.82] but know that our whole body -[1169.82 --> 1170.72] is watching with us -[1170.72 --> 1171.24] at home. -[1172.12 --> 1172.98] We are not worried -[1172.98 --> 1174.16] about hiring a pastor later -[1174.16 --> 1174.98] because the finances -[1174.98 --> 1175.48] have come in -[1175.48 --> 1176.14] and so hopefully later -[1176.14 --> 1177.06] this year that will happen. -[1177.26 --> 1178.04] And we have a bunch -[1178.04 --> 1179.10] of new ministry initiatives -[1179.10 --> 1180.02] happening in September -[1180.02 --> 1180.48] as well, -[1180.60 --> 1181.60] all because of -[1181.60 --> 1182.58] your generosity. -[1182.92 --> 1184.10] And while we can celebrate -[1184.10 --> 1185.54] that and we can celebrate -[1185.54 --> 1186.20] the generosity -[1186.20 --> 1186.74] of the people -[1186.74 --> 1187.36] of this church, -[1188.00 --> 1188.68] brothers and sisters, -[1188.78 --> 1189.64] let's remember this. -[1189.64 --> 1191.94] It's the Holy Spirit -[1191.94 --> 1193.62] working in our hearts -[1193.62 --> 1195.80] making us generous, -[1196.04 --> 1198.08] awakening us to give. -[1198.86 --> 1200.88] This is God providing -[1200.88 --> 1202.58] for our church. -[1203.02 --> 1204.16] This is God providing -[1204.16 --> 1206.42] for our brothers and sisters. -[1208.20 --> 1210.06] And it goes way beyond finances. -[1211.72 --> 1213.76] God provides what we need -[1213.76 --> 1215.90] to get through difficult times. -[1215.90 --> 1218.76] Just like He provided -[1218.76 --> 1219.36] for the Jews -[1219.36 --> 1220.98] when they returned to exile, -[1221.08 --> 1222.08] He provides for us. -[1224.34 --> 1225.38] Some of you may be needing -[1225.38 --> 1226.28] some hope right now -[1226.28 --> 1227.94] or peace. -[1229.30 --> 1230.70] Some of us need to know -[1230.70 --> 1231.26] we're not alone. -[1233.30 --> 1234.40] Maybe you need comfort. -[1235.58 --> 1236.48] Maybe you need support. -[1236.62 --> 1237.48] Maybe you need community. -[1238.40 --> 1239.52] We all need different things -[1239.52 --> 1240.22] to be able to live -[1240.22 --> 1240.84] in this life. -[1242.18 --> 1243.42] And we need different things -[1243.42 --> 1244.30] to be able to fulfill -[1244.30 --> 1245.10] God's mandate -[1245.10 --> 1246.04] for our lives, -[1246.06 --> 1246.98] to love each other, -[1247.54 --> 1248.46] to love everyone. -[1250.42 --> 1251.38] God provides. -[1251.48 --> 1252.16] What is it you need -[1252.16 --> 1252.88] to be able to live -[1252.88 --> 1253.86] that life of love -[1253.86 --> 1254.46] for your neighbors, -[1254.58 --> 1255.00] for each other? -[1255.06 --> 1255.80] What do you need -[1255.80 --> 1256.86] to be able to go out -[1256.86 --> 1257.84] and take that next step? -[1258.68 --> 1259.66] God provides. -[1259.82 --> 1260.60] Pray for that. -[1262.10 --> 1262.90] That's where God -[1262.90 --> 1264.80] will be there in abundance. -[1266.20 --> 1266.80] And of course, -[1267.14 --> 1268.50] God's biggest provision -[1268.50 --> 1269.66] for all of us -[1269.66 --> 1270.76] was once again, -[1270.80 --> 1271.40] it was His Son. -[1272.06 --> 1272.74] It was His Son, -[1272.74 --> 1273.40] Jesus Christ, -[1273.54 --> 1274.88] who came into this world -[1274.88 --> 1276.14] who died on the cross -[1276.14 --> 1277.74] and offers us grace -[1277.74 --> 1278.44] for our sins -[1278.44 --> 1279.48] and eternal life -[1279.48 --> 1280.08] if we believe. -[1280.92 --> 1281.70] He frees us -[1281.70 --> 1282.44] from the shackles -[1282.44 --> 1284.38] of sin and of death. -[1284.44 --> 1285.24] Listen to what Paul writes -[1285.24 --> 1286.46] in Romans 8, verse 32. -[1287.30 --> 1287.70] He says, -[1287.70 --> 1288.34] the God, -[1288.34 --> 1289.66] He who did not spare -[1289.66 --> 1290.80] His own Son, -[1291.24 --> 1292.90] but gave Him for us all, -[1293.96 --> 1294.76] how will He -[1294.76 --> 1295.92] not also, -[1296.58 --> 1297.34] alone with Him, -[1297.84 --> 1298.98] graciously give us -[1298.98 --> 1299.62] all things? -[1301.60 --> 1302.76] God gave us His Son -[1302.76 --> 1303.52] as the ultimate -[1303.52 --> 1304.52] freeing sacrifice -[1304.52 --> 1305.62] for you. -[1306.24 --> 1307.68] He provides for you. -[1309.44 --> 1310.62] I want to close this sermon -[1310.62 --> 1311.12] from a quote -[1311.12 --> 1312.18] from author P. Williams. -[1313.72 --> 1314.64] In his book, -[1314.64 --> 1316.12] in his book -[1316.12 --> 1316.80] Opening Ezra, -[1316.86 --> 1317.40] he says this, -[1317.46 --> 1317.88] and this is just -[1317.88 --> 1318.56] a beautiful quote -[1318.56 --> 1319.26] that sums this up. -[1319.32 --> 1319.66] He says, -[1320.30 --> 1321.58] Man cannot provide -[1321.58 --> 1322.56] his own salvation. -[1322.74 --> 1323.84] Only God can do that. -[1324.82 --> 1325.90] In the cross of Jesus, -[1326.64 --> 1327.80] life is provided -[1327.80 --> 1329.52] in place of eternal damnation. -[1330.38 --> 1331.10] And in addition -[1331.10 --> 1332.58] to delivering up His Son, -[1333.44 --> 1334.98] God will also freely -[1334.98 --> 1335.92] provide us -[1335.92 --> 1337.26] with all things, -[1337.34 --> 1337.74] he says. -[1338.56 --> 1339.90] The grace needed -[1339.90 --> 1340.68] for each day, -[1341.68 --> 1342.34] the strength -[1342.34 --> 1342.94] to overcome -[1342.94 --> 1343.62] our weaknesses -[1343.62 --> 1345.24] and the power -[1345.24 --> 1346.52] to overcome temptation. -[1348.02 --> 1349.04] God is sovereign. -[1349.56 --> 1350.30] God is faithful. -[1351.02 --> 1351.80] God provides -[1351.80 --> 1352.94] no matter what. -[1354.22 --> 1354.50] Amen. -[1354.72 --> 1355.42] Please pray with me. -[1360.42 --> 1361.22] God Almighty, -[1361.44 --> 1363.28] sovereign over all things, -[1363.46 --> 1364.84] covenant keeper, -[1365.58 --> 1366.46] we thank you -[1366.46 --> 1367.98] for faithfully -[1367.98 --> 1369.10] keeping your promises -[1369.10 --> 1369.66] with us. -[1369.66 --> 1371.98] Let us remember -[1371.98 --> 1374.58] that all things -[1374.58 --> 1376.18] you have promised us, -[1376.48 --> 1377.90] how you are with us, -[1377.96 --> 1379.14] how your spirit dwells in us, -[1379.18 --> 1379.98] how we have the ability -[1379.98 --> 1380.72] to love others -[1380.72 --> 1382.06] simply by submitting -[1382.06 --> 1383.06] to your love for us. -[1384.10 --> 1385.40] And thank you most of all -[1385.40 --> 1385.94] for your Son, -[1386.04 --> 1386.72] Jesus Christ, -[1387.00 --> 1388.50] for his ultimate sacrifice -[1388.50 --> 1389.38] on the cross. -[1390.24 --> 1391.10] As we celebrate -[1391.10 --> 1391.96] communion in moments, -[1392.04 --> 1392.72] may you remind us -[1392.72 --> 1393.26] once again -[1393.26 --> 1393.92] of his suffering -[1393.92 --> 1395.36] and of his conquest -[1395.36 --> 1396.30] over sin and death. -[1396.38 --> 1397.46] In his name alone -[1397.46 --> 1398.54] we pray. -[1398.86 --> 1399.14] Amen. -[1400.28 --> 1401.24] Amen. -[1401.66 --> 1401.86] We pray. -[1402.40 --> 1402.82] Amen. -[1402.82 --> 1402.88] Amen. -[1402.88 --> 1403.40] Amen. -[1403.72 --> 1403.88] ! -[1404.04 --> 1404.48] Amen. -[1404.66 --> 1404.74] Thank you. -[1405.38 --> 1405.44] Amen. -[1417.86 --> 1418.40] Amen. -[1418.50 --> 1418.60] Amen. -[1418.66 --> 1418.70] Amen. -[1418.70 --> 1420.92] Amen. -[1420.92 --> 1420.96] Amen. -[1421.32 --> 1423.78] Amen. -[1423.78 --> 1425.88] Amen. -[1425.88 --> 1426.68] Amen. -[1426.88 --> 1428.08] Amen. -[1428.08 --> 1428.52] Amen. -[1428.52 --> 1428.78] Amen. -[1428.78 --> 1429.64] Amen. diff --git a/Songs from Home - June 6 2021_summary.txt b/Songs from Home - June 6 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c1e70b792d994bf2981eee2c9c742d5756e27348..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Songs from Home - June 6 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,37 +0,0 @@ -• Speaking the power to prevail and chasing away darkness -• The name of God as power over darkness, freedom, mercy, faithfulness, and glory -• The Holy Spirit's presence and power in worship -• Singing praises to God with heart and soul -• Worshiping Jesus as King of nations and Lord of all -• Invocation of God to come and fill the temple -• Praise and worship of Jesus as King of nations -• Recognition of God's holiness and judgment -• Worship and adoration of God, including praise through music and singing -• Acknowledgment of human sinfulness and need for salvation -• Assurance that God will hold people fast through His love and promises -• The speaker reflects on faith and salvation -• The devil's power is contrasted with God's love and redemption -• Psalm 96 is read and interpreted as a call to worship and praise God -• The importance of worshipping God in the midst of uncertainty and doubt -• The prophet Joel's words are referenced, encouraging a return to God with heart and fasting -• Prayer and worship are emphasized as a way to connect with God and experience His power. -• Prayer and worship -• Conviction of truth and exposure of darkness -• Desire for God's presence and love -• Gratitude for change and progress in the world -• Request to fulfill God's will and work in the world -• Petition to end pandemic, loneliness, and suffering -• Acknowledgment of God's power and sovereignty -• Worship and praise to God's name -• Recognition of dependence on God's presence -• Praise to the Son, Spirit, and God of glory -• Lyrics referencing Jesus Christ's resurrection and salvation -• Piano music playing softly throughout the transcript -• Prayers and blessings asking for God's presence, favor, and peace -• References to the Bible (Psalm 128) in closing prayer -• Expressions of faith and trust in God's power -• Repeating phrases about God's ability to move mountains, heal, and revive dreams -• References to the name of Jesus and His power to break through obstacles -• Invitations to sing and believe in greater things -• Statements emphasizing that there is no power like the power of Jesus -• The audio cuts to a close-up perspective. \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Songs from Home - June 6 2021_transcript.txt b/Songs from Home - June 6 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 4ec17cb638669561b7de6578b45e942810e3bf0d..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Songs from Home - June 6 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,595 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 9.06] Every lie, my sword, in every fight, the truth will chase away the night. -[10.00 --> 20.16] Your name is power over darkness, freedom for the captains, mercy for the broken and the hopeless. -[20.16 --> 32.00] Your name is faithful in the battle, glory in the struggle, mighty, it won't let us down or fail us. -[32.24 --> 34.16] Your name is power. -[37.16 --> 39.80] Your name is power. -[43.80 --> 48.08] I know it is written, hope is certain. -[48.08 --> 53.08] Yeah, I know that the world will never fail. -[55.10 --> 64.08] Oh, I know that in every situation, yes, I know you speak the power to prevail. -[65.80 --> 75.08] Louder than every lie, my sword, in every fight, the truth will chase away the night. -[75.08 --> 87.08] Your name is power over darkness, freedom for the captains, mercy for the broken and the hopeless. -[88.08 --> 98.08] Your name is faithful in the battle, glory in the struggle, mighty, it won't let us down or fail us. -[98.08 --> 101.08] Your name is power. -[101.08 --> 103.08] Your name is power. -[103.08 --> 105.08] Your name is power. -[105.08 --> 107.08] Your name is power. -[107.08 --> 113.08] When you speak, you scatter darkness, light arrives and heaven opens. -[113.08 --> 114.08] Holy Spirit, let us hear it. -[114.08 --> 116.08] When you speak, you scatter darkness, light arrives and heaven opens. -[116.08 --> 118.08] Holy Spirit, let us hear it. -[118.08 --> 120.08] When you speak, you scatter darkness, light arrives and heaven opens. -[120.08 --> 121.08] Holy Spirit, let us hear it. -[121.08 --> 122.08] Let us hear it. -[122.08 --> 125.08] When you speak, you scatter darkness, light arrives and heaven opens. -[125.08 --> 129.08] Holy Spirit, let us hear it. -[129.08 --> 136.08] When you speak, you scatter darkness, light arrives and heaven opens. -[136.08 --> 137.08] Holy Spirit, let us hear it. -[137.08 --> 138.08] When you speak, the church awakens. -[138.08 --> 139.08] We believe the change is coming. -[139.08 --> 144.08] Holy Spirit, let us hear it. -[144.08 --> 145.08] When you speak, the church awakens. -[145.08 --> 146.08] When you speak, the church awakens. -[146.08 --> 147.08] We believe the change is coming. -[147.08 --> 152.08] Holy Spirit, let us hear it. -[152.08 --> 157.08] Holy Spirit, let us hear it. -[157.08 --> 161.08] Your name is power over darkness. -[161.08 --> 164.08] Freedom for the captains. -[164.08 --> 168.08] Mercy for the broken and hopeless. -[168.08 --> 172.08] Your name is faithful in the battle. -[172.08 --> 175.08] Glory in the struggle. -[175.08 --> 180.08] Mighty, it will let us down our failures. -[180.08 --> 185.08] Your name is power over darkness. -[185.08 --> 191.08] Your name is power in the chaos. -[191.08 --> 194.08] Your name is power. -[198.08 --> 200.08] Holy Spirit, let us hear it. -[200.08 --> 201.08] Anyone can hear it. -[201.08 --> 203.08] The Lord has heard it. -[203.08 --> 205.08] They are broken. -[205.08 --> 206.08] They are broken. -[206.08 --> 208.08] Your name is power. -[208.08 --> 209.08] Holy Spirit, let us hear it. -[210.08 --> 211.08] Holy Spirit, let us hear it. -[211.08 --> 212.08] Come. -[212.08 --> 217.08] Holy Spirit, let us hear it. -[217.08 --> 222.08] You are broken. -[222.08 --> 223.08] Come. -[223.08 --> 225.08] Holy Spirit, let us hear it. -[225.08 --> 226.08] We have heard it. -[226.08 --> 236.20] Burn like a fire -[236.20 --> 239.20] Living flame -[239.20 --> 244.60] Good evening. -[246.46 --> 248.72] All right, let's try again. -[249.50 --> 250.06] Good evening. -[250.64 --> 254.24] Thank you so much for joining with us -[254.24 --> 257.78] as we gather together to sing a new song to the Lord. -[257.90 --> 261.56] We gather tonight to sing praises to our God. -[261.68 --> 265.64] We gather tonight to lift up our hearts in worship. -[265.86 --> 270.82] We gather to lift our holy hands in praise of our good God. -[270.92 --> 272.22] And so wherever you are at, -[272.22 --> 275.78] I encourage you to sing out tonight. -[276.66 --> 277.42] Sing from the heart. -[278.38 --> 281.68] Express your soul and your longing to our God -[281.68 --> 284.62] as we sing praises to him. -[284.72 --> 285.76] Some songs will be familiar. -[285.98 --> 288.30] Some might be a little bit more new. -[288.70 --> 293.62] But as you are able, join in our worship together. -[294.56 --> 296.76] I'm going to kick us off with a greeting from God -[296.76 --> 301.02] as we come into his presence to worship his name. -[302.52 --> 306.14] Grace, mercy, and peace to you -[306.14 --> 308.92] from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, -[309.28 --> 311.36] his Son and our Savior -[311.36 --> 315.12] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[316.16 --> 316.56] Amen. -[317.46 --> 319.44] Let's worship God in song tonight, shall we? -[319.44 --> 338.86] song now. -[338.92 --> 347.06] Let's worship Jesus -[347.06 --> 353.32] Jesus, King of nations, Lord of all. -[353.86 --> 362.10] Make the best sense and glorious, just and merciful. -[364.82 --> 375.40] Jesus, King of nations, Jesus, Lord of all. -[375.40 --> 386.28] Jesus, King of nations, Lord of all. -[387.36 --> 397.98] Furnish our hearts of passion, deepest love and highest praise. -[397.98 --> 408.86] Voice, race, and language blending on the world of faith. -[408.86 --> 420.62] Jesus, King of nations, Jesus, Lord of all. -[420.62 --> 431.50] Jesus, King of nations, Lord of all. -[431.50 --> 443.98] Three tributes from the nations, coming joyful, careful kings. -[443.98 --> 454.86] One wondrous acclamation, one prayer of grace. -[454.86 --> 466.86] Jesus, King of nations, Lord of all. -[466.86 --> 477.74] Jesus, King of nations, Lord of all. -[477.74 --> 478.74] Lord of all. -[478.74 --> 480.74] Come, Lord of all. -[480.74 --> 481.74] Come, Lord of all. -[481.74 --> 484.74] Fill your temple. -[484.74 --> 486.74] Lord of all. -[486.74 --> 489.74] Your loving place. -[489.74 --> 490.74] Will nations, Lord of all. -[490.74 --> 496.74] Will nations, see your splendor. -[496.74 --> 500.74] And see your face. -[500.74 --> 501.74] If you so, Lord of all. -[501.74 --> 505.74] Jesus, King of nations, Lord of all. -[505.74 --> 525.74] Jesus, King of nations, Lord of all. -[525.74 --> 531.34] Lord of all -[531.34 --> 537.82] Hear God and give His glory -[537.82 --> 542.52] For He's out of judgment -[542.52 --> 549.56] The Son of God Almighty -[549.56 --> 554.06] Worship Him above -[555.74 --> 585.72] Worship Him above -[585.74 --> 597.36] All the poor and powerless -[597.36 --> 603.86] All the lost and lonely -[603.86 --> 610.86] All the thieves will come confess -[610.86 --> 616.02] I know that you are holy -[616.02 --> 622.66] I know that you are holy -[622.66 --> 630.86] Come and sing out alleluia -[630.86 --> 638.86] We will cry out alleluia -[640.86 --> 647.86] All the hearts you are content -[647.86 --> 655.86] All the hearts you are content -[655.86 --> 661.40] All will feel unworthy -[661.40 --> 668.02] All the hurt with nothing left -[668.02 --> 673.02] I know that you are holy -[673.02 --> 683.02] All will sing out alleluia -[683.02 --> 689.02] We will cry out alleluia -[689.02 --> 696.02] All the love we'll sing out alleluia -[696.02 --> 701.02] We will cry out alleluia -[701.02 --> 706.02] Alleluia -[706.02 --> 713.02] Shout it -[713.02 --> 719.02] Go on and scream it from the mountains -[719.02 --> 722.02] Go on and tell it to the masses -[722.02 --> 729.02] Go on and tell it to the masses -[729.02 --> 733.02] And He is God -[733.02 --> 734.02] That He is God -[734.02 --> 738.02] That He is God -[738.02 --> 739.02] And He is God -[739.02 --> 740.02] Shout it -[740.02 --> 741.02] Go on and scream it from the mountains -[741.02 --> 746.02] Go on and tell it to the masses -[746.02 --> 753.02] Go on and tell it to the masses -[753.02 --> 761.02] Go on and scream it from the mountains -[761.02 --> 763.02] Go on and tell it to the masses -[763.02 --> 764.02] That He is God -[764.02 --> 765.02] That He is God -[765.02 --> 766.02] He is God -[766.02 --> 768.02] He is God -[768.02 --> 769.02] He is God -[769.02 --> 771.02] He is God -[771.02 --> 773.02] We will sing out alleluia -[773.02 --> 774.02] We will sing out alleluia -[774.02 --> 775.02] We will cry out alleluia -[775.02 --> 779.02] We will sing out alleluia -[779.02 --> 788.02] And He is called now -[788.02 --> 793.78] We will sing our running, -[794.24 --> 800.14] Gloria, we will cry our running, -[800.14 --> 806.56] Gloria, we will sing our running, -[806.56 --> 812.94] Gloria, we will cry our running, -[813.20 --> 817.40] Gloria, we will shout it. -[818.52 --> 823.08] Go on and scream it from the mountain. -[823.08 --> 829.54] Go on and tell it to the master -[829.54 --> 836.50] That He is called. -[840.50 --> 842.80] Shout it. -[843.88 --> 848.92] Go on and scream it from the mountains. -[848.92 --> 855.46] Go on and tell it to the master -[855.46 --> 862.38] That He is called. -[862.38 --> 869.32] Go on and say the camera. -[869.32 --> 871.74] c Kah -[871.74 --> 872.74] Amen. -[901.74 --> 911.94] When I hear my name, Christ will hold me fast. -[911.94 --> 921.20] When the tender word prevail, He will hold me fast. -[921.20 --> 925.82] I could never keep my hold. -[925.82 --> 934.70] Through my simple path, for my love is often cold. -[934.70 --> 939.70] He must hold me fast. -[941.08 --> 945.12] He will hold me fast. -[945.54 --> 948.70] He will hold me fast. -[949.16 --> 952.74] For my Savior loves me so. -[952.74 --> 958.62] He will hold me fast. -[958.62 --> 967.62] He will hold me fast. -[967.62 --> 975.62] Since saints are His divine, Christ will hold me fast. -[975.62 --> 981.50] Since saints are His holy sight. -[981.50 --> 985.50] He will hold me fast. -[985.50 --> 989.50] I will not let my soul be lost. -[989.50 --> 993.38] His promises shall last. -[993.38 --> 998.26] From my name is such a God. -[999.38 --> 1003.38] He will hold me fast. -[1003.38 --> 1008.38] He will hold me fast. -[1008.38 --> 1012.26] He will hold me fast. -[1012.26 --> 1016.26] For my Savior loves me so. -[1016.26 --> 1020.14] He will hold me fast. -[1020.14 --> 1022.14] He will hold me fast. -[1022.14 --> 1028.02] He will hold me fast. -[1028.02 --> 1032.02] I will hold me fast. -[1032.02 --> 1036.02] I will hold me fast. -[1036.02 --> 1039.90] Christ will hold me fast. -[1039.90 --> 1041.90] Christ will hold me fast. -[1041.90 --> 1045.78] when He comes at His chorus. -[1045.78 --> 1046.34] Christ will come fast. -[1046.34 --> 1048.78] His presence. -[1048.78 --> 1052.28] He will hold me fast. -[1052.28 --> 1054.84] He will hold me fast. -[1054.84 --> 1055.86] He will hold me fast. -[1055.86 --> 1057.60] He will hold me fast. -[1057.60 --> 1064.80] till our faith is turned to side when he comes -[1072.16 --> 1078.40] will hold me fast for my savior loves me so -[1087.60 --> 1096.40] he will hold me fast for my savior loves me so -[1096.40 --> 1108.40] hold me fast -[1117.60 --> 1142.16] it's time -[1147.60 --> 1151.04] The devil roars his empty hands. -[1151.76 --> 1155.10] I will preach the gospel to myself, -[1155.60 --> 1159.34] that I am not a man condemned, -[1160.26 --> 1164.76] for Jesus Christ is my defense. -[1165.44 --> 1171.96] The sin is nailed to the cross. -[1171.96 --> 1176.68] My soul is healed by the scars. -[1176.68 --> 1179.10] The weight of guilt -[1179.10 --> 1181.76] I'm there no more -[1181.76 --> 1184.18] Praise the Lord -[1184.18 --> 1186.72] Praise the Lord -[1186.72 --> 1198.20] Now I don't say over me -[1198.20 --> 1202.56] The heroes of the enemy -[1202.56 --> 1216.56] I will run again to Calvary, the rugged hill, from hell's defeat, my fortress and my victory. -[1216.56 --> 1238.56] My sin is filled to the cross, my soul is filled by the sky, the weight of guilt, I dare no more. Praise the Lord, praise the Lord. -[1238.56 --> 1252.56] My sin is filled to the cross, my soul is filled by the sky, the weight of guilt, I dare no more. -[1252.56 --> 1257.56] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord. -[1257.56 --> 1266.56] It is finished, it is vanquished, hallelujah, praise the Lord. -[1266.56 --> 1276.56] All the glory, all the honor, to my Savior, Christ the Lord. -[1276.56 --> 1286.56] My sin is finished, it is vanquished, hallelujah, praise the Lord. -[1286.56 --> 1299.56] All the glory, all the honor, to my Savior, Christ the Lord. -[1299.56 --> 1308.56] I will stand before the throne at last, His blood will plead my innocence. -[1309.56 --> 1325.56] I will worship Him with holy hands, and praise the song that never ends, of Jesus Christ, my righteousness. -[1325.56 --> 1339.56] My sin is filled to the cross, my soul is filled by the sky, the weight of guilt, I dare no more. -[1339.56 --> 1344.56] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord. -[1344.56 --> 1359.56] My sin is filled to the cross, my soul is filled by the stars, now I am alive forevermore. -[1359.56 --> 1363.56] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord. -[1363.56 --> 1368.56] Oh, praise the Lord, praise the Lord. -[1368.56 --> 1388.36] I am reading from Psalm 96. -[1389.64 --> 1391.58] Sing to the Lord a new song. -[1391.72 --> 1393.24] Sing to the Lord, all the earth. -[1393.76 --> 1395.76] Sing to the Lord, praise his name. -[1395.76 --> 1398.52] Proclaim his salvation day after day. -[1399.38 --> 1403.42] Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among the peoples. -[1404.12 --> 1406.74] For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise. -[1407.04 --> 1409.38] He is to be feared above all gods. -[1409.98 --> 1414.16] For all the gods of the nations are idols, but the Lord made the heavens. -[1414.72 --> 1416.70] Splendor and majesty are before him. -[1417.06 --> 1419.08] Strength and glory are in his sanctuary. -[1420.44 --> 1423.38] Ascribe to the Lord, all you families of nations. -[1423.80 --> 1426.30] Ascribe to the Lord glory and strength. -[1426.30 --> 1429.42] Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name. -[1430.12 --> 1432.54] Bring an offering and come into his courts. -[1433.56 --> 1436.08] Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness. -[1436.58 --> 1438.28] Tremble before him, all the earth. -[1438.76 --> 1441.10] Say among the nations, the Lord reigns. -[1441.66 --> 1443.40] The world is firmly established. -[1443.76 --> 1445.00] It cannot be moved. -[1445.34 --> 1447.74] He will judge the peoples with equity. -[1447.74 --> 1450.32] Let the heavens rejoice. -[1450.72 --> 1451.80] Let the earth be glad. -[1452.30 --> 1454.88] Let the sea resound and all that is in it. -[1455.38 --> 1457.96] Let the fields be jubilant and everything in them. -[1458.30 --> 1461.02] Let all the trees of the forest sing for joy. -[1461.54 --> 1465.14] Let all creation rejoice before the Lord, for he comes. -[1465.48 --> 1467.00] He comes to judge the earth. -[1467.40 --> 1471.48] He will judge the world in righteousness and the peoples in his faithfulness. -[1471.48 --> 1477.70] Let's take some time to pray together in our worship. -[1477.70 --> 1487.14] Thank you, Lord God, for the opportunity of worship. -[1487.86 --> 1492.16] For the freedom to sing your praises at will. -[1492.16 --> 1500.56] Thank you that in worship we can put aside the uncertainties of this world -[1500.56 --> 1504.30] and rest upon the certainties of the kingdom. -[1505.30 --> 1510.68] For your promises are not changeable as those of any man or woman might be, -[1511.46 --> 1514.10] but they are immovable and eternal. -[1514.10 --> 1524.56] Holy Father, we gather in your presence tonight. -[1526.50 --> 1529.06] We gather as those who long to sing your praises. -[1529.24 --> 1532.60] We gather as those who long to meet you in our worship. -[1532.74 --> 1536.12] And so, Holy Spirit, move in power. -[1538.16 --> 1540.78] Move in us each tonight. -[1540.78 --> 1547.92] Wherever we are in this place or far afield, we pray, move in power. -[1550.98 --> 1558.56] Father God, as we worship, I hear you speaking to us in the words of the prophet Joel. -[1560.36 --> 1563.18] Spirit, I hear you say, even now, declares the Lord, -[1563.30 --> 1567.46] return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning. -[1567.46 --> 1571.02] Rend your heart and not your garments. -[1572.50 --> 1576.42] Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, -[1576.64 --> 1579.92] slow to anger and abounding in love. -[1582.02 --> 1586.34] Father God, tonight may we know your abounding love. -[1586.34 --> 1596.86] And in the security of your love and presence, convict us of your truth. -[1598.32 --> 1605.54] May we genuinely, deeply, authentically rend our hearts. -[1607.54 --> 1614.02] Tear open the dark places of our soul and expose them to your light. -[1614.02 --> 1619.62] Peer into the depths of our darkness. -[1621.16 --> 1625.56] And try us and know us intimately. -[1629.16 --> 1634.16] God, tonight may we open ourselves up to you. -[1634.16 --> 1641.08] May we feel you at work in us and through us. -[1641.22 --> 1644.80] And may we see you at work in the world, in your power. -[1645.50 --> 1648.10] We rend our hearts in the name of Jesus. -[1653.10 --> 1659.66] We rend our hearts to see you here now. -[1659.66 --> 1687.40] Holy Father, we thank you for the changes that are happening around us in the world, -[1687.40 --> 1697.42] especially as we see the COVID pandemic being pushed back and being beaten by our restart efforts and plans. -[1697.50 --> 1701.92] And we praise your name for your work in accomplishing your will. -[1701.92 --> 1710.46] And even as we give you thanks, Lord God, we pray that you would use us to fulfill your will and your work in the world. -[1710.46 --> 1718.06] And so, Lord God, we pray the church of Jesus Christ, praise, crying out, calling out, -[1718.38 --> 1728.52] end this pandemic, end our loneliness, end our isolation, end our crying and our mourning as we call out to you, Lord Jesus. -[1728.52 --> 1738.46] Take our broken hearts and make us whole. -[1742.96 --> 1746.58] May we know, Lord God, as you say in the prophet Malachi, -[1746.58 --> 1776.56] may we know that you hold all the way to the Lord, -[1776.56 --> 1782.52] all history in your hands and it is by the prayers of your saints that you move in the world. -[1782.66 --> 1784.14] And so we pray. -[1785.88 --> 1787.34] We rend our hearts -[1787.34 --> 1789.40] and we worship. -[1791.40 --> 1792.88] We give you thanks -[1792.88 --> 1794.74] for this chance -[1794.74 --> 1796.56] to be here -[1796.56 --> 1798.66] together in your -[1798.66 --> 1799.78] presence, -[1800.56 --> 1802.88] singing your praise. -[1802.88 --> 1814.32] Thank you -[1814.32 --> 1818.42] that as we draw near in worship, -[1819.42 --> 1821.40] we are transported -[1821.40 --> 1823.30] from a world -[1823.30 --> 1825.06] of concerns -[1825.06 --> 1826.18] and fears -[1826.18 --> 1829.56] to a place -[1829.56 --> 1832.30] where we can be at peace -[1832.30 --> 1834.22] in your presence, -[1835.62 --> 1836.32] find healing, -[1837.42 --> 1837.90] wholeness, -[1838.84 --> 1839.52] and refreshment. -[1842.52 --> 1843.90] Thank you, Lord God, -[1845.18 --> 1846.52] for the opportunity -[1846.52 --> 1848.68] of worship. -[1848.68 --> 1851.94] Amen. -[1851.98 --> 1852.10] Amen. -[1852.10 --> 1853.10] Amen. -[1882.10 --> 1883.10] Amen. -[1912.10 --> 1914.10] Amen. -[1918.10 --> 1922.10] This is my daily bread. -[1925.10 --> 1930.10] This is my daily bread. -[1931.10 --> 1940.10] Your very word spoken. -[1942.10 --> 1955.10] And I'm desperate for you. -[1956.10 --> 1970.10] And I'm lost without you. -[1972.10 --> 1974.10] Amen. -[1974.10 --> 1980.10] This is the air I breathe. -[1980.10 --> 1994.10] Your holy presence. -[1994.10 --> 2000.10] Living in me. -[2000.10 --> 2010.10] This is my daily bread. -[2010.10 --> 2016.10] This is my daily bread. -[2016.10 --> 2028.10] Your very word spoken to me. -[2028.10 --> 2040.10] And I'm desperate for you. -[2040.10 --> 2042.10] And I'm desperate for you. -[2042.10 --> 2044.10] And I'm desperate for you. -[2044.10 --> 2046.10] And I'm desperate for you. -[2046.10 --> 2050.10] And I'm desperate for you. -[2050.10 --> 2052.10] And I'm desperate for you. -[2052.10 --> 2056.10] And I'm desperate for you. -[2056.10 --> 2058.10] And I'm desperate for you. -[2058.10 --> 2062.10] And I'm desperate for you. -[2062.10 --> 2065.10] And I'm desperate for you. -[2065.10 --> 2070.10] And I'm desperate for you. -[2070.10 --> 2082.86] And I, I'm lost without you -[2082.86 --> 2093.36] You are the air I breathe -[2093.36 --> 2100.90] You are the air I breathe -[2123.36 --> 2135.94] In the darkness we were waiting -[2135.94 --> 2139.60] Without hope, without light -[2139.60 --> 2142.98] Till from heaven you came running -[2142.98 --> 2146.80] There was mercy in your eyes -[2146.80 --> 2150.38] To fulfill the love and promise -[2150.38 --> 2153.92] To a virgin came the world -[2153.92 --> 2157.48] From a throne of endless glory -[2157.48 --> 2161.60] To a cradle in the dirt -[2161.60 --> 2170.72] Praise the Father -[2170.72 --> 2174.22] Praise the Son -[2174.22 --> 2177.38] Praise the Spirit -[2177.38 --> 2181.22] Three in one -[2181.22 --> 2184.48] God of glory -[2184.48 --> 2186.48] Majesty -[2186.48 --> 2192.48] Praise forever to the King -[2192.48 --> 2194.48] The King -[2194.48 --> 2203.60] To reveal the kingdom coming -[2203.60 --> 2207.14] And to reconcile the lost -[2207.14 --> 2210.44] To redeem the whole creation -[2210.44 --> 2214.04] You did not despise the cross -[2214.04 --> 2217.36] For even in your suffering -[2217.36 --> 2221.00] You saw to the other side -[2221.00 --> 2224.12] For like this was our salvation -[2224.12 --> 2225.38] Jesus for the Lord -[2225.38 --> 2226.50] Jesus for the sake -[2226.50 --> 2227.38] We'll die -[2227.38 --> 2236.22] Praise the Father -[2236.22 --> 2237.22] Praise the Son -[2237.22 --> 2239.22] Praise the Son -[2239.22 --> 2243.22] Praise the Spirit -[2243.22 --> 2246.76] Three in one -[2246.76 --> 2250.32] God of glory -[2250.32 --> 2251.42] Hallelujah -[2251.46 --> 2252.86] Pajesty -[2252.86 --> 2254.58] Praise the King -[2254.58 --> 2255.08] Praise the King -[2255.08 --> 2256.00] Praise the King -[2256.00 --> 2256.36] Praise the King -[2256.36 --> 2257.10] Praise the King -[2257.10 --> 2258.00] Praise the King -[2258.00 --> 2259.98] And the King -[2259.98 --> 2261.50] And the Queen -[2261.50 --> 2264.86] 在�日子 shown -[2264.86 --> 2278.82] In the morning that you rose, all of heaven held its breath, till its stone was moved for good, for the Lamb had conquered death. -[2278.82 --> 2292.58] And the dead was rolled their tombs, and the angels stood in awe, for the souls of all who'd come, to the Father I'll restore. -[2292.58 --> 2306.18] When the church of Christ was born, and the Spirit lit the flame, now this gospel truth of old shall not be, shall not be. -[2306.18 --> 2319.54] By His blood and in His name, in His freedom I am free, for the love of Jesus Christ who has resurrected me. -[2322.58 --> 2338.66] Praise the Father, praise the Son, praise the Spirit, free in heart. -[2338.66 --> 2352.08] God of glory, God of sea, praise forever to the King of Cain. -[2352.08 --> 2359.42] Praise forever to the King of Cain. -[2359.42 --> 2376.60] Praise forever to the King of Cain. -[2376.60 --> 2406.58] piano plays softly -[2406.60 --> 2436.58] piano plays softly -[2436.60 --> 2466.58] piano plays softly -[2466.58 --> 2468.58] piano plays softly -[2468.58 --> 2470.58] piano plays softly -[2470.58 --> 2472.58] piano plays softly -[2472.58 --> 2474.58] piano plays softly -[2474.58 --> 2476.58] piano plays softly -[2476.58 --> 2478.58] piano plays softly -[2478.58 --> 2480.58] piano plays softly -[2480.58 --> 2482.58] piano plays softly -[2482.58 --> 2484.58] piano plays softly -[2484.58 --> 2486.58] piano plays softly -[2486.58 --> 2488.58] piano plays softly -[2488.58 --> 2490.58] piano plays softly -[2490.58 --> 2492.58] piano plays softly -[2492.58 --> 2522.58] -[2522.58 --> 2524.58] piano plays softly -[2524.58 --> 2526.58] piano plays softly -[2526.58 --> 2528.58] piano plays softly -[2528.58 --> 2530.58] piano plays softly -[2530.58 --> 2534.58] piano plays softly -[2534.58 --> 2538.58] piano plays softly -[2538.58 --> 2539.58] piano plays softly -[2539.58 --> 2540.58] piano play Sadhguru -[2540.58 --> 2566.58] iedy -[2568.58 --> 2575.58] That your love surrounds me -[2575.58 --> 2581.58] Rain be near -[2581.58 --> 2588.58] Draw me to your side -[2588.58 --> 2593.58] And as I wait -[2593.58 --> 2598.58] Arise, I'll find the King -[2598.58 --> 2603.58] And I will sow with you -[2603.58 --> 2606.58] Your spirit leads me on -[2606.58 --> 2611.58] The power of your love -[2618.58 --> 2625.78] I want to thank you so much for being with us tonight -[2625.78 --> 2630.04] And for joining us in this time of praise to our God -[2630.04 --> 2631.12] Together -[2631.12 --> 2634.74] As you go -[2634.74 --> 2638.20] Know that God goes with you -[2638.20 --> 2641.22] And so receive his blessing -[2641.22 --> 2644.32] It is in this blessing and by this blessing -[2644.32 --> 2647.76] That God speaks his name over you -[2647.76 --> 2650.20] As his child -[2650.20 --> 2653.40] The Lord bless you -[2653.40 --> 2655.02] And keep you -[2655.02 --> 2657.46] The Lord make his face shine upon you -[2657.46 --> 2659.38] And be gracious to you -[2659.38 --> 2662.76] The Lord turn his face toward you -[2662.76 --> 2666.30] And give you his peace -[2666.30 --> 2668.30] Amen -[2677.76 --> 2687.76] Lord bless you -[2687.76 --> 2692.02] And keep you -[2692.02 --> 2705.46] Lord bless you -[2705.46 --> 2709.28] And keep you -[2709.28 --> 2724.72] Amen -[2724.72 --> 2729.50] And given peace -[2729.50 --> 2733.22] Amen -[2733.90 --> 2738.04] Amen -[2738.04 --> 2743.06] Amen -[2743.70 --> 2748.98] Amen -[2749.62 --> 2754.10] Amen -[2754.10 --> 2761.10] Amen, amen -[2761.10 --> 2771.38] Lord bless you and keep you -[2771.38 --> 2775.94] Make his face shine upon you -[2775.94 --> 2779.26] Be gracious to you -[2779.26 --> 2785.86] The Lord turn his face toward you -[2785.86 --> 2791.26] And give you peace -[2791.26 --> 2807.46] Amen, amen, amen -[2809.26 --> 2819.26] Amen, amen -[2819.26 --> 2823.26] Amen -[2823.26 --> 2827.26] May his favor be upon you -[2827.26 --> 2829.26] And a thousand generations -[2829.26 --> 2833.26] And your family and your children -[2833.26 --> 2837.26] And their children and their children -[2837.26 --> 2840.26] May his favor be upon you -[2840.26 --> 2844.26] And a thousand generations -[2844.26 --> 2848.26] And your family and your children -[2848.26 --> 2854.26] And their children and his presence -[2854.26 --> 2857.26] Go before you and behind you -[2857.26 --> 2861.26] And beside you and around you -[2861.26 --> 2863.26] He is with you -[2863.26 --> 2864.26] Within you -[2864.26 --> 2865.26] He is with you -[2865.26 --> 2866.26] He is with you -[2866.26 --> 2867.26] And your morning -[2867.26 --> 2869.26] And evening -[2869.26 --> 2871.26] And your going -[2871.26 --> 2872.26] And your going -[2872.26 --> 2875.26] And your weeping -[2875.26 --> 2876.26] Rejoicing -[2876.26 --> 2878.26] He is with you -[2878.26 --> 2892.26] He is for you -[2892.26 --> 2894.26] He is for you -[2894.26 --> 2906.26] Amen, amen, amen. -[2906.26 --> 2919.26] Amen, amen, amen. -[2919.26 --> 2937.26] Amen, amen, amen, amen. -[2937.26 --> 2952.26] Amen, amen, amen. -[2955.26 --> 2957.26] We have faith going out here. -[2957.26 --> 2960.26] There's nothing that our God can't do. -[2960.26 --> 2966.26] And just one word, you calm the storm that surrounds me. -[2969.26 --> 2974.26] Yeah, just one word, the darkness has to retreat. -[2974.26 --> 2983.26] And just one touch, I feel the presence of Him. -[2983.26 --> 2992.26] Yeah, just one touch, my eyes were open to see. -[2992.26 --> 2994.26] My heart can't help but believe. -[2994.26 --> 2998.26] Say, there's nothing that our God can't. -[2999.26 --> 3003.26] There's not a mountain that He can't move. -[3004.26 --> 3008.26] Well, praise the name that makes a way. -[3009.26 --> 3012.26] There's nothing that our God can't do. -[3012.26 --> 3014.26] Oh. -[3015.26 --> 3017.26] Yeah, just one word. -[3017.26 --> 3021.26] You heal what's broken inside me. -[3021.26 --> 3023.26] Just takes the word. -[3024.26 --> 3026.26] Well, just one word. -[3026.26 --> 3029.26] And you revive every dream. -[3029.26 --> 3031.26] You're gonna dream again. -[3031.26 --> 3033.26] You're gonna dream again. -[3033.26 --> 3035.26] Yeah, just one touch. -[3035.26 --> 3036.26] And you feel the love. -[3036.26 --> 3038.26] I feel the power of Him. -[3038.26 --> 3041.26] Yeah, just one touch. -[3041.26 --> 3042.26] And just one touch. -[3042.26 --> 3043.26] My eyes were open to see. -[3043.26 --> 3045.26] Well, I can't help but believe. -[3045.26 --> 3048.26] No one, there's nothing that our God can't do. -[3048.26 --> 3050.26] There's not a mountain that He can't move. -[3050.26 --> 3051.26] Oh, praise the name that brings a way. -[3051.26 --> 3053.26] There's nothing that our God can't do. -[3054.26 --> 3056.26] There's not a mountain that He can move. -[3056.26 --> 3058.26] Oh, praise the name that brings a way. -[3058.26 --> 3063.74] Oh, praise the name that makes a way -[3063.74 --> 3067.08] There's nothing that our God can't do -[3067.08 --> 3071.58] Oh, we believe there's nothing that our God can't do -[3071.58 --> 3076.32] There's not a prison one can't break through -[3076.32 --> 3081.98] Oh, praise the name that makes a way -[3081.98 --> 3085.46] There's nothing that our God can't do -[3085.46 --> 3091.70] Oh, yeah -[3091.70 --> 3097.28] Oh, yeah -[3097.28 --> 3103.84] Oh, we will sing and believe -[3103.84 --> 3106.40] Come on, we're saved -[3106.40 --> 3111.34] I will believe for greater things -[3111.34 --> 3115.22] There's no power like the power of Jesus -[3115.22 --> 3118.16] So let faith arise -[3118.16 --> 3120.28] Let all agree -[3120.28 --> 3123.46] There's no power like the power of Jesus -[3123.46 --> 3125.04] You gotta sing it, come on -[3125.04 --> 3127.32] I will believe, alright -[3127.32 --> 3129.68] For greater things -[3129.68 --> 3131.16] There's no power -[3131.16 --> 3133.08] Come on -[3133.08 --> 3134.64] Come on and sing -[3134.64 --> 3135.64] Let faith arise -[3135.64 --> 3136.58] Let faith arise -[3136.58 --> 3137.70] Let all agree -[3137.70 --> 3138.70] Let faith arise -[3138.70 --> 3139.70] Let all agree -[3139.70 --> 3142.88] There's no power like the power of Jesus -[3142.88 --> 3147.92] There's no power like the power of Jesus -[3147.92 --> 3151.12] There's no power like the power of Jesus -[3151.12 --> 3156.86] Jesus, let faith arise, let all agree. -[3157.38 --> 3159.76] There's no power like his power. -[3160.08 --> 3162.02] There's nothing that I can't. -[3163.90 --> 3166.00] Let's not imagine that. -[3168.00 --> 3169.10] Come on. -[3169.30 --> 3173.34] And praise the name that makes a way. -[3173.34 --> 3177.82] There's nothing, there's nothing that I'm Jesus can't do. -[3177.82 --> 3181.28] There's nothing that I can't do. -[3182.08 --> 3186.28] There's not a prison what we can't break through. -[3187.52 --> 3191.62] Praise the name that makes a way. -[3192.06 --> 3195.14] There's nothing that I can't do. -[3195.14 --> 3197.08] There's nothing that I can't do. -[3197.10 --> 3198.60] There's nothing that I can't do. -[3198.60 --> 3200.60] There's nothing that I can't do. -[3200.60 --> 3203.12] Nothing that I can't do. -[3203.12 --> 3205.32] There's nothing that I know is demasiado struggling. -[3205.38 --> 3207.52] That's my life. -[3207.52 --> 3208.74] There's nothing that I can't do. -[3209.68 --> 3211.46] There's nothing that I can't do. -[3211.58 --> 3212.50] There's nothing that I can't do without. -[3217.06 --> 3219.32] There's nothing that I can't do. -[3219.32 --> 3221.24] There's nothing that I can't do. -[3221.24 --> 3221.94] Close up. -[3221.94 --> 3222.26] Close up. diff --git a/Sunday Evening Worship, April 28, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Evening Worship, April 28, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 7527b131a8d819ad89ea1e41ace77b456ad8e55e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Evening Worship, April 28, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,22 +0,0 @@ -• Repeated phrases of "Thank you" -• No other topics mentioned -• References to the Bible and Christian theology -• Themes of salvation, redemption, and worship -• Praise for God as Father, Son, and Spirit -• Description of Jesus' resurrection and its impact -• Yearning to be close to God and experience divine presence -• Use of repetitive phrases and chants ("Hallelujah", "Holy, holy, God almighty") -• Declaration of God's sovereignty and uniqueness -• Worship and praise to God as the King of kings -• Acknowledging the Holy Spirit's presence and power in believers' lives -• Warning against a form of "atheistic Christianity" where God's power is not believed or sought -• Encouragement to recognize and respond to the Holy Spirit's work in one's life -• Invitation to receive the blessing of God and be empowered for service -• Conclusion with worship music, specifically singing about God's greatness. -• The song "How Great Is Our God" is sung -• References to the Godhead: Father, Spirit, Son -• Jesus as the Lion and Lamb -• Singing with praise and worship -• Praise to God's name and greatness -• Repetition of "how great is our God" -• Worship song structure: repetition of lyrics and melodies \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Evening Worship, April 28, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Evening Worship, April 28, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 8f7e6770a670652a7e028cb64264ab9bd7129e96..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Evening Worship, April 28, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,351 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[509.98 --> 539.96] Thank you. -[539.98 --> 569.96] Thank you. -[569.98 --> 599.96] Thank you. -[599.96 --> 629.94] Thank you. -[629.96 --> 659.94] Thank you. -[659.94 --> 689.92] Thank you. -[689.94 --> 719.92] Thank you. -[719.94 --> 749.92] Thank you. -[749.92 --> 779.90] Thank you. -[779.90 --> 809.88] Thank you. -[809.90 --> 839.88] Thank you. -[839.88 --> 869.86] Thank you. -[869.88 --> 899.86] Thank you. -[899.86 --> 929.84] Thank you. -[929.84 --> 959.82] Thank you. -[959.82 --> 989.80] Thank you. -[989.82 --> 1019.80] Thank you. -[1019.80 --> 1049.78] Thank you. -[1049.80 --> 1079.78] Thank you. -[1079.80 --> 1109.78] Thank you. -[1109.80 --> 1139.78] Thank you. -[1139.80 --> 1169.78] Thank you. -[1169.78 --> 1199.76] Thank you. -[1199.76 --> 1229.74] Thank you. -[1229.74 --> 1259.72] Thank you. -[1259.74 --> 1289.72] through reading. -[1289.72 --> 1319.72] Thank you. -[1319.72 --> 1349.72] Thank you. -[1349.72 --> 1379.72] Thank you. -[1379.72 --> 1409.70] Thank you. -[1409.72 --> 1439.70] And so, -[1439.72 --> 1469.70] Thank you. -[1469.70 --> 1499.68] Thank you. -[1499.68 --> 1529.66] Thank you. -[1529.68 --> 1559.66] Thank you. -[1559.68 --> 1589.66] Thank you. -[1589.68 --> 1619.66] Thank you. -[1619.68 --> 1649.66] Thank you. -[1649.66 --> 1679.64] Thank you. -[1679.64 --> 1709.62] Thank you. -[1709.64 --> 1739.62] Thank you. -[1739.64 --> 1769.62] Thank you. -[1769.62 --> 1799.60] Thank you. -[1799.62 --> 1829.60] Thank you. -[1829.62 --> 1859.60] Thank you. -[1859.62 --> 1889.60] Thank you. -[1889.62 --> 1919.60] Thank you. -[1919.60 --> 1949.58] Thank you. -[1949.58 --> 1979.56] He's a part of the -[1979.56 --> 2009.54] Thank you. -[2009.54 --> 2039.52] Thank you. -[2039.54 --> 2069.52] Thank you. -[2069.54 --> 2099.52] Thank you. -[2099.54 --> 2129.52] Thank you. -[2129.54 --> 2159.52] Thank you. -[2159.54 --> 2189.52] Thank you. -[2189.54 --> 2219.52] Thank you. -[2219.54 --> 2249.52] Thank you. -[2249.54 --> 2279.52] Thank you. -[2279.54 --> 2309.52] Thank you. -[2309.54 --> 2339.52] Thank you. -[2339.54 --> 2369.52] Thank you. -[2369.54 --> 2399.52] Thank you. -[2399.54 --> 2429.52] Thank you. -[2429.52 --> 2459.50] Thank you. -[2459.50 --> 2489.48] Thank you. -[2489.48 --> 2519.46] Thank you. -[2519.46 --> 2549.44] Thank you. -[2549.44 --> 2579.42] Thank you. -[2579.42 --> 2609.42] Thank you. -[2609.42 --> 2639.40] Thank you. -[2639.42 --> 2669.42] Thank you. -[2669.42 --> 2699.40] Thank you. -[2699.40 --> 2729.38] Thank you. -[2729.40 --> 2759.38] God, you see you. -[2759.40 --> 2789.38] Thank you. -[2789.38 --> 2819.36] Thank you. -[2819.36 --> 2849.36] Thank you. -[2849.36 --> 2879.36] Thank you. -[2879.36 --> 2909.34] Thank you. -[2909.36 --> 2939.34] Thank you. -[2939.36 --> 2969.34] Thank you. -[2969.36 --> 2999.34] Thank you. -[2999.36 --> 3029.34] Thank you. -[3029.36 --> 3059.34] Take you. -[3059.36 --> 3089.34] Thank you. -[3089.36 --> 3119.34] Thank you. -[3119.36 --> 3149.34] Thank you. -[3149.36 --> 3179.34] Thank you. -[3179.36 --> 3209.34] Thank you. -[3209.34 --> 3239.32] Thank you. -[3239.34 --> 3269.32] Thank you. -[3269.34 --> 3299.32] Thank you. -[3299.34 --> 3329.32] Thank you. -[3329.34 --> 3359.32] Thank you. -[3359.34 --> 3389.32] Thank you. -[3389.34 --> 3419.32] Thank you. -[3419.34 --> 3449.32] Take me. -[3449.34 --> 3479.32] Thank you. -[3479.34 --> 3509.32] Thank you. -[3509.34 --> 3539.32] Thank you. -[3539.32 --> 3569.30] Thank you. -[3569.32 --> 3599.32] Thank you. -[3599.32 --> 3629.30] Thank you. -[3629.32 --> 3659.30] Thank you. -[3659.32 --> 3689.30] Thank you. -[3689.30 --> 3719.28] Thank you. -[3719.30 --> 3749.28] Thank you. -[3749.28 --> 3779.26] Thank you. -[3779.28 --> 3809.26] Thank you. -[3809.28 --> 3839.26] Thank you. -[3839.26 --> 3869.24] Thank you. -[3869.26 --> 3899.24] Thank you. -[3899.26 --> 3929.24] Thank you. -[3929.26 --> 3959.24] Thank you. -[3959.26 --> 3989.24] Thank you. -[3989.26 --> 4019.24] Thank you. -[4019.24 --> 4049.22] from Genesis 1. -[4049.22 --> 4079.20] And you're in the -[4079.20 --> 4109.18] work in the world, -[4109.18 --> 4139.16] Ezeze, -[4139.16 --> 4169.14] have been in the -[4169.14 --> 4199.12] among scorpions. -[4199.12 --> 4229.10] the spirit of the spirit of the -[4229.10 --> 4259.08] and the day of the day, -[4259.08 --> 4289.06] they were all together, -[4289.06 --> 4319.04] and the day, -[4319.04 --> 4349.02] and the day, -[4349.02 --> 4379.00] and the day, -[4379.00 --> 4408.98] joy, peace, -[4408.98 --> 4438.96] but very, -[4438.96 --> 4468.94] and the day, -[4468.94 --> 4498.92] that he will receive, -[4498.92 --> 4528.92] and the world, and the world, -[4528.92 --> 4558.90] has set you free, -[4558.90 --> 4588.90] and the world, and the world, -[4588.90 --> 4618.90] into his and people, and the love of the love, -[4618.90 --> 4633.00] In the darkness we were waiting, without hope, without light, -[4633.00 --> 4640.18] till from heaven you came running, there was mercy in your eyes. -[4640.48 --> 4646.78] To fulfill the law and promise, to burden me the world, -[4646.78 --> 4653.78] from a throne in this glory to the great in the earth. -[4659.28 --> 4672.78] Praise the Father, praise the Son, praise the Spirit, three in one. -[4672.78 --> 4687.78] God of glory, majesty, praise forever to the King of kings. -[4687.78 --> 4699.02] To reveal the need of coming, and to reconcile the lost, -[4699.02 --> 4706.02] to redeem the whole creation, you've begun despise the promise. -[4706.44 --> 4712.90] For even in your suffering, his fall to the other side. -[4712.90 --> 4719.90] Knowing this world's our salvation, chaste for our Savior, God. -[4719.90 --> 4737.90] Praise the Father, praise the Son, praise the Spirit, three in one. -[4737.90 --> 4752.90] God of glory, majesty, praise forever to the King of kings. -[4752.90 --> 4753.90] Amen. -[4753.90 --> 4764.02] In the morning that you rose, all of heaven held its breath, -[4764.40 --> 4771.18] till that stone was moved for good, for the lamb had conquered death. -[4771.72 --> 4777.90] And the dead rose from their tomes, and the angels stood in awe, -[4777.90 --> 4784.90] From the souls of all who come, to the Father I restore. -[4785.66 --> 4792.10] And the church of Christ was born, and the Spirit lived the flame. -[4792.52 --> 4798.82] And the song from truth I hold, shall not be or shall not be. -[4799.36 --> 4805.54] Like His blood and in His name, in His freedom I am free. -[4805.54 --> 4812.54] For the love of Jesus Christ, who has resurrected me. -[4817.94 --> 4831.54] Praise the Father, praise the Son, praise the Spirit, free in one. -[4831.54 --> 4844.54] God of glory, majesty, praise forever to the King of kings. -[4844.54 --> 4851.54] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[4874.54 --> 4891.28] I want to be close, close to your Son -[4891.28 --> 4897.42] So heaven is free and death is alive -[4897.42 --> 4904.30] I want to hear voices, angels of love -[4904.30 --> 4910.54] Sing as one, hallelujah -[4910.54 --> 4917.28] Holy, holy, God almighty -[4917.28 --> 4921.04] The great I am -[4921.04 --> 4927.96] Who is worthy, none beside me -[4927.96 --> 4934.20] God almighty, the great I am -[4934.20 --> 4944.28] I want to be near, near to your heart -[4944.28 --> 4949.96] Loving the world, hating the dark -[4949.96 --> 4954.44] I want to see dry bones -[4954.44 --> 4959.96] Living again, singing as one -[4960.52 --> 4966.20] Hallelujah, holy, holy -[4966.20 --> 4972.96] God almighty, the great I am -[4972.96 --> 4979.96] Who is worthy, none beside me -[4980.72 --> 4986.96] God almighty, the great I am -[4986.96 --> 5005.72] The mountains shake before you -[5005.72 --> 5009.20] The demons run and flee -[5009.20 --> 5013.20] At the mention of your name -[5013.20 --> 5014.96] King of majesty -[5014.96 --> 5018.88] There is no power in hell -[5018.88 --> 5022.20] Nor any who can stand -[5022.20 --> 5026.08] Pray for the power and the presence -[5026.08 --> 5029.58] Of the great I am -[5029.58 --> 5033.20] Great I am -[5033.20 --> 5043.20] The great I am -[5043.20 --> 5044.94] The great I am -[5044.94 --> 5045.24] Pretty I am -[5045.24 --> 5053.84] The great I am -[5053.84 --> 5063.84] oh -[5063.84 --> 5077.84] Who is worthy, none beside Thee, God Almighty, the great I Am. -[5077.84 --> 5091.10] Hallelujah, holy, holy, God Almighty, the great I Am. -[5091.10 --> 5105.10] Who is worthy, none beside Thee, God Almighty, the great I Am. -[5107.84 --> 5109.84] Amen. -[5137.84 --> 5139.84] Amen. -[5139.84 --> 5141.84] Amen. -[5141.84 --> 5143.84] Amen. -[5143.84 --> 5145.84] Amen. -[5145.84 --> 5147.84] Amen. -[5147.84 --> 5149.84] Amen. -[5149.84 --> 5151.84] Amen. -[5151.84 --> 5153.84] Amen. -[5153.84 --> 5162.20] That who are saved, holy, holy is He. -[5164.90 --> 5176.20] Sing a new song to Him who sits on heaven's mercy seat. -[5176.20 --> 5191.20] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come. -[5191.20 --> 5201.20] With all creation I sing praise to the King of kings. -[5201.20 --> 5208.20] You are my everything and I will adore You. -[5208.20 --> 5238.18] I sing praise to the King of kings. -[5238.18 --> 5249.18] I sing in honor, strength and glory and power be to You, the only God of kings. -[5252.18 --> 5262.18] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come. -[5262.18 --> 5274.18] Holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is and is to come. -[5274.18 --> 5276.18] I sing this Lord foreign nations and will atoms and the earth again join in our hearts. -[5276.18 --> 5283.18] Holy, holy is the Lord Almighty, who bent from Him in Portuguese andоньれ Euh— -[5283.18 --> 5287.32] Holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who berserk我 amb gere a meeting to them. -[5287.32 --> 5288.64] Holy is the Lord God Almighty, whose life is God Almighty awaits us as the amen of Jesus. -[5288.64 --> 5291.18] Amen! -[5291.18 --> 5292.18] Son James Chenniker andəs, 구 qu McCannsli Magna. -[5292.18 --> 5307.18] Filled with wonder, awestruck wonder, at the mention of your name. -[5307.18 --> 5322.18] Filled with wonder, awestruck wonder, at the mention of your name. -[5322.18 --> 5336.18] Jesus, your name is power, strength of living on earth, from to love and mystery. -[5336.18 --> 5349.18] Glory, glory, glory, Son of God Almighty, who was and is and is to come. -[5349.18 --> 5365.18] In all creation I sing, praise to the King of kings, you are my everything, and I will adore you. -[5365.18 --> 5378.18] Holy, glory, glory, Son of God Almighty, who was and is and is to come. -[5378.18 --> 5395.18] In all creation I sing, praise to the King of kings, you are my everything, and I will adore you. -[5395.18 --> 5408.18] In all creation I sing, praise to the King of kings, you are my everything, and I will adore you. -[5408.18 --> 5421.18] In all creation I sing, praise to the King of kings, you are my everything, and I will adore you. -[5421.18 --> 5423.18] I have my phone up here. -[5423.18 --> 5430.18] Okay, so I wasn't going to do this, but now I feel like, compelled to do this. -[5430.18 --> 5433.18] So please take a seat for just a moment. -[5433.18 --> 5442.18] As you take a seat, some of you are going to think this is weird, just close your eyes, and listen. -[5442.18 --> 5449.18] We've been in this space together, praying and singing, come Holy Spirit. -[5449.18 --> 5457.18] We've been in this time, this hour and a bit of worship, inviting the Holy Spirit to come, -[5457.18 --> 5468.18] and we've heard scriptures affirming over and over and over again that the Holy Spirit has come, that he is here. -[5468.18 --> 5476.18] We are two or three gathered in the name of the Lord, and so he is here. -[5476.18 --> 5500.18] And as we have come, as we have heard his presence, we are now invited to go, to go in the power of the Holy Spirit. -[5500.18 --> 5507.18] But there is a great tragedy in the life of the Christian disciple. -[5507.18 --> 5522.18] There is a great tragedy in the life of the church today that is functionally an atheistic Christianity. -[5522.18 --> 5532.18] Someone who believes in Jesus and professes to believe in Jesus, and yet does not believe that God works in power by the Spirit. -[5535.18 --> 5539.18] And doesn't ask God to work in that power. -[5540.18 --> 5543.18] So here's the word I want you to hear. -[5543.18 --> 5554.18] If you profess that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, that's the Spirit working in you, that belief. -[5554.18 --> 5566.18] If you have experienced, even in a small measure, a growth in the fruit of the Spirit, of love and challenging and otherwise impossible situations, that's the Spirit at work. -[5566.18 --> 5575.18] If you have experienced a sense of peace in the face of chaos and anxiety, that's the Spirit at work. -[5577.18 --> 5586.18] If you have grown in patience when you are tried and under pressure, that's the Spirit at work. -[5586.18 --> 5589.18] Church of God, the Spirit is still at work. -[5589.18 --> 5605.18] And so as you go, go knowing that his power is real and his power is working in you and through you and for you to bring glory to God our Father. -[5605.18 --> 5606.18] Amen? -[5606.18 --> 5607.18] Amen. -[5608.18 --> 5612.18] And so we go with the blessing of God. -[5612.18 --> 5613.18] I invite you to stand. -[5613.18 --> 5614.18] I invite you to stand. -[5614.18 --> 5615.18] Hold out your hands. -[5615.18 --> 5616.18] Open your heart. -[5616.18 --> 5620.18] And receive the blessing of God. -[5620.18 --> 5627.18] As we have invited the Holy Spirit to come, we are now invited by the Holy Spirit to go. -[5628.18 --> 5639.18] And may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God the Father, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be and abide with you always. -[5639.18 --> 5642.18] God's people said, Amen. -[5642.18 --> 5643.18] Amen. -[5643.18 --> 5646.18] Amen. -[5655.18 --> 5661.18] Yea, above all names -[5661.18 --> 5669.88] Worthy of all praise -[5669.88 --> 5673.84] My heart will sing -[5673.84 --> 5681.76] Great is our God -[5681.76 --> 5691.76] The splendor of the King -[5691.76 --> 5696.64] Bold in majesty -[5696.64 --> 5700.76] Let all the earth rejoice -[5700.76 --> 5704.76] All the earth rejoice -[5704.76 --> 5711.76] He roused himself with eyes -[5711.76 --> 5717.76] And darkness strives to hide -[5717.76 --> 5721.76] And trembles at His voice -[5721.76 --> 5725.76] And trembles at His voice -[5725.76 --> 5731.76] How great is our God -[5731.76 --> 5733.76] Sing with me -[5733.76 --> 5738.76] How great is our God -[5738.76 --> 5740.76] And all will see -[5740.76 --> 5742.76] How great -[5742.76 --> 5750.76] How great is our God -[5750.76 --> 5758.76] Age to age He stands -[5758.76 --> 5765.76] When time is in His hands -[5765.76 --> 5768.76] Beginning at the end -[5768.76 --> 5772.76] Beginning at the end -[5772.76 --> 5779.76] The God that free in one -[5779.76 --> 5784.76] Father, Spirit, Son -[5784.76 --> 5788.76] The Lion and the Lamb -[5788.76 --> 5792.76] The Lion and the Lamb -[5792.76 --> 5797.76] How great is our God -[5797.76 --> 5799.76] Sing with me -[5799.76 --> 5804.76] How great is our God -[5804.76 --> 5806.76] Thou will see -[5806.76 --> 5814.76] How great is our God -[5814.76 --> 5825.76] Name above all names -[5825.76 --> 5829.76] Worthy of all praise -[5829.76 --> 5831.76] My heart will sing -[5831.76 --> 5834.76] My heart will sing -[5834.76 --> 5838.76] How great is our God -[5838.76 --> 5839.76] My heart will sing -[5839.76 --> 5840.76] How great is our God -[5840.76 --> 5843.76] How great is our God -[5843.76 --> 5846.76] Name above all names -[5846.76 --> 5848.76] How great is our God -[5848.76 --> 5866.76] Worthy of our grace, my heart will sing, how great is our God. -[5866.76 --> 5881.76] How great is our God, sing with me how great is our God. -[5881.76 --> 5894.76] All will see how great, how great is our God. -[5896.76 --> 5908.76] How great is our God, sing with me how great is our God. -[5908.76 --> 5919.76] And all will see how great, how great is our God. -[5919.76 --> 5931.76] Sing my soul, my Savior God to thee. -[5931.76 --> 5945.76] How great thou art, how great thou art. -[5945.76 --> 5959.76] Then sings my soul, my Savior God to thee. -[5959.76 --> 5963.76] How great thou art. -[5963.76 --> 5971.76] How great thou art. -[5971.76 --> 5975.76] How great thou art. -[5975.76 --> 5977.76] How great thou art. -[5977.76 --> 5979.76] How great thou art. -[5979.76 --> 5981.76] How great thou art. -[5981.76 --> 5983.76] How great thou art. -[5985.76 --> 5987.76] How great thou art. -[5987.76 --> 5989.76] How great thou art. -[5989.76 --> 5991.76] How great thou art. -[5992.76 --> 5993.76] How great thou art. -[5993.76 --> 5995.76] Whether thy thy soul. -[5995.76 --> 5997.76] Mul tis by the help of minute. -[5997.76 --> 6027.74] Thank you. -[6027.76 --> 6057.74] Thank you. -[6057.76 --> 6087.74] Thank you. -[6087.76 --> 6117.74] Thank you. -[6117.76 --> 6147.74] Thank you. -[6147.76 --> 6177.74] Thank you. -[6177.76 --> 6207.74] Thank you. -[6207.76 --> 6237.74] Thank you. -[6237.76 --> 6267.74] Thank you. -[6267.76 --> 6297.74] Thank you. -[6297.76 --> 6327.74] Thank you. -[6327.76 --> 6357.74] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Morning Worship, May 5, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Morning Worship, May 5, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 1dc2e28b9a66671ee1a1713e80c2bae56106b4f1..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Morning Worship, May 5, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,187 +0,0 @@ -• The importance of being accepted and loved as one is -• Overcoming shame and guilt through forgiveness -• Understanding the depth and width of God's love -• Recognizing one's value and worth in God's eyes -• Living a life free from fear and doubt, and instead living with freedom and confidence -• Embracing one's identity and purpose as created by God -• Miracles and hope in difficult circumstances -• A broken heart and soul can be restored and reborn -• Greater things are still in store for us -• Pastoral announcements: - + Youth coffee at the Verhoof home - + Registration open for youth camp - + Baby blessing gathering for five baby girls born in the community -• Announcements about upcoming events -• Ascension Day worship service on Thursday at 7 p.m. -• Call to stand and receive the greeting of God -• Worship and adoration offered to God's holy name -• Song lyrics referencing God's greatness, power, and faithfulness -• Lamentation hymn expressing gratitude for God's unchanging nature -• Prayer and worship -• Faithfulness and provision of God -• Confession and seeking forgiveness -• Longing for God's presence and restoration -• Reflection on life as an altar to God -• Praise and adoration of God's greatness -• Biblical references and scripture reading -• Worship and prayer in community -• Prayer or worship song with repeated phrases of devotion and praise to a higher power -• Introduction by Mike, deacon at the church, mentioning his name and role -• Discussion of New Ground Ministries and its mission to support new ministries and provide coaching -• Mention of two congregation members serving on the National Committee for New Ground -• Financial giving opportunity mentioned -• Recitation of the Apostles' Creed -• The speaker leads a worship service and mentions the importance of believing in God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. -• The speaker invites children aged three to grade four to join them at the front for "Kids Corner". -• Some girls are absent because they're attending Gems Camp. -• The speaker shares about a play they saw over the weekend, which was a musical adaptation of Frozen. -• They ask the audience if anyone has seen the movie Frozen and if they have favorite characters. -• Hans is mentioned as a character who does something mean in the story and is booed by the audience when he reveals he doesn't actually love Anna. -• Discussion of a character named Hans and how he is hard to love -• The concept of loving people who are difficult to love -• The children's blessing and prayer time in worship -• God's desire for humans to be reconciled with Him before being able to reconcile with others -• The Holy Spirit's role in shaping believers through life's circumstances and their own resistance to it. -• Expressing gratitude for God's love, blessings, and sufficiency in their lives -• Asking for forgiveness and openness to God's plan and purpose -• Requesting guidance, wisdom, and discernment for leaders and those affected by poverty and hunger -• Praying for healing and comfort for those suffering from illness, loss, and grief (including John Koenig, Judy Dykstra, Ryland and Laura Benny, and Grace Vanderdeen) -• Seeking help to be living examples of kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control -• Discussion of prayer for families in mourning -• Request for healing and restoration for those suffering -• Nomination process for new office bearers -• Prayer for Pastor Chris' message -• Reading from Romans 15:1-13 -• Reflection on disunity and fostering arguments in groups -• Romans chapter 15 is being read and discussed -• The text picks up mid-story or mid-stream, referencing previous conversations -• Community is encouraged to bear with the weaknesses of others and not seek their own pleasure -• Examples from scripture are used to illustrate this point, including Christ's own humility -• The goal is for believers to have one mind and voice in glorifying God -• Christ accepted by God to bring praise to Him -• Christ's role as a servant of the Jews on behalf of God's truth -• Fulfillment of promises made to patriarchs and confirmation for Gentiles -• Praise and glorification of God among Gentiles -• Isaiah's prophecy of the root of Jesse and hope for nations -• Joy, peace, and overflow with hope through trust in Christ -• Maturity in the gospel builds unity around the gospel -• Chapters 14 and 15 discuss what it looks like to mature in the gospel -• Contrasting language of weaker or stronger brother/sister used by Paul -• Definition of maturity as allowing the scope of the gospel to pervade every aspect of life -• The gospel changes everything, including perception and experience of reality -• Paul has been discussing "disputable matters" with the listeners -• The conversation is based on 1 Corinthians 14:1 and Romans 14 -• Disputable matters include food, holy days, wine, marriage, celibacy, circumcision, baptism (infant vs believer), women in church office -• These are not necessarily controversial conversations, but rather areas where scripture appears to offer multiple interpretations -• Paul's advice is to accept those who hold weaker faith without quarreling over disputable matters. -• The concept of unity and its relationship to maturity -• Unity is not just about being at the same spot or having the same opinion, but about moving together towards a common goal -• Maturity is a journey, not a destination, and it involves growing and learning together -• Unity in the gospel is built around the teachings of Jesus and is not defined by agreement on everything -• A clear understanding of what gospel unity looks like is needed to navigate the path towards maturity -• Discussing the importance of unity in a community -• Explaining that gospel unity is key to transforming lives -• Mentioning four things about gospel unity: it bears up the less mature, grows towards hope, glorifies the road map together, and should be prioritized by strong individuals -• Addressing technical issues with audio feedback and gain levels -• Returning to the discussion of gospel unity and its significance -• Unity is built through bearing and building each other up -• The word "edification" means to build one another up in Greek -• Connections between words and their meanings can be found in the original language of the text (Greek) -• Mutual edification is a key concept, referring to the act of building one another up in peace and mutual support -• The word "edifice" and its meaning as a large building or structure -• Building someone up, edifying them, and growing in strength and faith -• Responsibility of more mature individuals to grow in their faith and help others -• Every individual's responsibility to be a disciple and make disciples -• Maturing Christians helping other Christians mature -• Youth leader experience with 30-year catechism teacher -• Gospel unity and community growing in faith -• Young girls at Gems camp being counseled, volunteering, and leading -• Helping others mature in their faith -• Maturity in a short period of time -• Infants and faith development -• Promise of helping children grow in faith -• Physical growth vs spiritual growth -• Adult faith development and discipline -• Maturity as a Christian through discipling others -• Church growth through gospel unity and discipleship -• Discipleship -• Mentoring vs coaching -• Faith maturity levels and development -• Example of older man studying Bible in McDonald's with younger person -• Church maturing towards faith -• Relationship between mature and immature believers -• The importance of bearing with the weaknesses of others -• Growing in maturity through relationships and community -• The role of the Holy Spirit in growth and unity -• Serving others, especially those who are less mature -• Unity in the gospel and looking out for one another's needs -• The Bible refers to "neighbors" in various contexts, often emphasizing a broader definition beyond just people who share the same faith -• Jesus' story of the Good Samaritan illustrates an example of neighborly love towards those outside one's own community or faith -• The gospel can change relationships with people who believe the same as you and with those who do not yet believe -• Being united in the gospel demonstrates what it means to be neighbors, showing love and compassion to all -• Living for those outside the reach of the gospel -• Paul's statement about living to please others -• The importance of wanting good for others and their joy -• Motives for doing good, with emphasis on not having ulterior motives -• Supporting Newground ministries, but emphasizing that it is not just about supporting a specific organization -• The true reason for doing good, which is simply pursuing the other person's well-being -• maturity involves knowing what is hard but good -• discipline and correction are necessary for growth -• faith in one's life often requires difficult decisions -• maturity comes from having a holy discontent with present reality and being motivated through hardship or trial -• The importance of following Jesus and living a good life -• Christ's example in enduring suffering and bearing insults -• The concept that Jesus took on human failings, sin, and punishment for us on the cross -• The idea that we are healed through Jesus' wounds and death -• Reference to Hebrews 12:2 and its mention of joy being set before Jesus during his suffering -• The joy of the Christian life is found in doing good, even when it's hard -• A gospel unity is achieved by a group of people working together to pursue what God defines as good -• Sacrificing for others and putting them first is a key aspect of this unity -• True believers will mourn alongside those who mourn and come alongside each other in times of darkness -• Gospel unity is built on maturity -• Maturity in the gospel requires growth and development -• Gospel maturity involves being taught and instructed by God's word -• The life of gospel unity is one of constant maturing and growing -• Constantly seeking to be in God's word and searching the scriptures is essential for this process -• The Berean church's method of testing scripture to verify its truth -• Importance of enduring and persevering as Christians -• Connection between spiritual discipline and discipleship -• Difficulty of being a Christian in today's world -• Need to reclaim the identity of spiritual discipline and discipleship. -• The scriptures provide encouragement and show the power of God and His victory -• Even when things seem against us, God is for us -• Reading the Bible teaches that joy comes in the morning after weeping has passed -• It also teaches us to trust in God's word spoken directly to our hearts and imagination -• This provides hope and encouragement even in hard times -• The speaker uses a personal experience from a church baseball game to illustrate this point -• Encouragement through scripture -• Saturating oneself with scriptures for growth -• Unity glorifies God, but can be misused as a hammer to force conformity -• True unity is made visible in how we experience disagreement, showing willingness to suffer for others' good. -• Jesus prays for unity in John 17, a kind that gives witness to who God is and brings glory to Him. -• The church should be one as the Father and He are one, demonstrating trinitarian theology. -• Trinitarian theology emphasizes oneness while maintaining differentiation within the persons of the Trinity. -• Our unity transcends disunity and distinctives, including them and making it more beautiful. -• God is glorified by this kind of unity. -• Additionally, there's an imminent sense in which God is glorified by unity that takes a form of praising Him. -• The scripture verse in Romans chapter 15 indicates the goal for unity among people is to bring praise to God. -• This goal has been present throughout history, as evident from various scriptures mentioned. -• The unity of different groups, including Gentiles and Jews, glorifies God by making much of His greatness and what He has done. -• Gospel unity also brings glory to God in the sense that His people are united together in praising Him. -• Maturity in the gospel builds unity around it, leading to all people everywhere praising the Lord. -• Joy, peace, and hope come from trusting in God -• Maturity brings joy and peace through righteousness -• Unity is hopeful and expressed in our unity -• The work of God and the Holy Spirit changes everything -• Praying together as a unified community -• The concept of Jesus Christ as a living hope -• Desperation and turning to heaven for help -• Experience of forgiveness and salvation through Jesus Christ -• Victory over death and the grave through Jesus' resurrection -• Praise and thanksgiving to God for redemption and freedom -• Encouragement and blessing for those embarking on a journey of faith -• Blessings of God -• Do not be afraid -• Go in peace and unity -• Love and serve the Lord -• Prayer repetition with "Amen" \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Morning Worship, May 5, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Morning Worship, May 5, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6591b66e0344ab0fafe0476b3e828a2f336105ac..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Morning Worship, May 5, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,4322 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 8.42] I want you as you are, not as you ought to be. -[9.68 --> 13.32] Won't you lay down your guard and come to me? -[15.22 --> 19.02] The shame that grips you now is crippling. -[20.94 --> 24.36] It breaks my heart to see you suffering. -[25.70 --> 27.82] Cause I am for you. -[27.82 --> 31.82] I'm not against you. -[33.32 --> 40.72] If you wanna know how far my love can go, just how deep, just how wide. -[41.04 --> 47.82] If you wanna see how much you mean to me, look at my hands, look at my side. -[48.60 --> 53.64] If you could count the times I'd say you are forgiven. -[53.64 --> 57.10] It's more than the drops in the ocean. -[57.82 --> 68.78] Don't think you need to settle for a substitute. -[70.34 --> 74.26] When I'm the only love that changes you. -[74.26 --> 76.26] And I am for you. -[76.26 --> 80.26] I'm not against you. -[80.26 --> 82.26] I'm not against you. -[82.26 --> 84.26] I am for you. -[84.26 --> 87.22] I'm not against you. -[87.22 --> 91.22] If you wanna know how far my love can go, just how deep, just how wide. -[91.22 --> 105.18] If you wanna see how much you mean to me, look at my hands, look at my side. -[105.18 --> 110.22] If you could count the times I'd say you are forgiven. -[110.22 --> 112.22] It's more than the drops in the ocean. -[112.22 --> 114.34] It's more than the drops in the ocean. -[119.24 --> 121.18] Drops in the ocean. -[121.18 --> 125.66] Open your heart, it's time that we start again -[125.66 --> 133.26] Open your heart, it's time that we start again -[133.26 --> 139.20] If you wanna know how far my love can go -[139.20 --> 142.46] Just how deep, just how wide -[142.46 --> 146.68] If you wanna see how much you mean to me -[146.68 --> 149.98] Look at my hands, look at my soul -[149.98 --> 155.66] If you can count the times, the day you are forgiven -[155.66 --> 159.16] It's more than the drops in the ocean -[159.16 --> 166.56] The drops in the ocean -[166.56 --> 175.26] Oh, I'm fighting for you -[175.26 --> 179.26] I'm not against you -[179.26 --> 182.94] I am for you -[182.94 --> 187.00] I'm not against you -[187.00 --> 209.18] You're not the only one who feels like this -[209.18 --> 212.86] Feeling like you lose more than you win -[212.86 --> 216.54] Like life is just an endless hill you climb -[216.54 --> 222.22] You try and try, but never arrive -[222.22 --> 224.28] I'm telling you something -[224.28 --> 227.96] This racing, this racing, this running -[227.96 --> 229.96] Oh, you're working way too hard -[229.96 --> 231.96] You're working way too hard -[231.96 --> 237.64] I'm not against you, I'm not against you -[237.64 --> 241.32] So go ahead and live like you're in the ocean -[241.32 --> 243.32] So go ahead and live like you're loved -[243.32 --> 245.32] Live like you're loved -[245.32 --> 247.00] Live like you're loved -[247.00 --> 249.00] Live like you're loved -[249.00 --> 252.68] Live like you're loved -[252.68 --> 256.36] Live like you're loved -[256.36 --> 258.36] Live like you're loved -[258.36 --> 265.36] Live like you're loved. -[265.36 --> 269.36] Live like you're loved. -[269.36 --> 273.36] And live like you know you're valuable. -[273.36 --> 277.36] Like you know the one that holds your soul. -[277.36 --> 281.36] Cause mercy has called you by your name. -[281.36 --> 285.36] Don't be afraid to live in that grace. -[285.36 --> 288.36] Oh, I'm telling you something. -[288.36 --> 290.36] This God we believe in. -[290.36 --> 293.36] Yeah, he changed everything. -[293.36 --> 296.36] No more guilt, no more shame. -[296.36 --> 298.36] He took all that away. -[298.36 --> 301.36] Gave us a reason to sing. -[301.36 --> 305.36] So go ahead and live like you're loved. -[305.36 --> 309.36] It's okay to act like you've been set free. -[309.36 --> 313.36] His love has made you more than enough. -[313.36 --> 317.36] So go ahead and be who we made you to be. -[317.36 --> 321.36] And live like you're loved. -[321.36 --> 325.36] Live like you're loved. -[325.36 --> 329.36] Live like you're loved. -[329.36 --> 333.36] Live like you're loved. -[333.36 --> 335.36] Live like you're loved. -[335.36 --> 337.36] Walk like you're free. -[337.36 --> 341.36] Sail like you know who we made you to be. -[341.36 --> 343.36] Live like you're loved. -[343.36 --> 344.36] Live like you're loved. -[344.36 --> 345.36] Live like you're loved. -[345.36 --> 348.36] Live like you're loved. -[348.36 --> 349.36] His love is all that you'll ever need. -[349.36 --> 352.36] So go ahead and live like you're loved. -[352.36 --> 356.36] His love has made you more than enough. -[356.36 --> 360.70] His love has made you more than enough -[360.70 --> 368.68] So go ahead and live like your love -[368.68 --> 373.32] It's okay to act like you've been set free -[373.32 --> 377.00] His love has made you more than enough -[377.00 --> 381.54] So go ahead and be who he made you to be -[381.54 --> 384.32] And live like your love -[384.32 --> 387.42] Live like your love -[387.42 --> 391.40] Live like your love -[391.40 --> 393.46] Live like your love -[393.46 --> 395.48] Live like your love -[395.48 --> 399.50] Live like your love -[399.50 --> 401.48] Walk like you're free -[401.48 --> 405.48] Steal like you know who he made you to be -[405.48 --> 407.58] Live like your love -[407.58 --> 409.54] Like you believe -[409.54 --> 413.54] His love is all that you'll ever need -[413.54 --> 416.64] Live like your love -[416.64 --> 418.64] Live like your love -[418.64 --> 421.74] Live like your love -[421.74 --> 423.74] Live like your love -[423.74 --> 427.78] And you're not the one that you would have chosen -[427.78 --> 438.40] When you're at the end of the road -[438.40 --> 442.88] And it's not the one that you would have chosen -[442.88 --> 446.38] When you're at the end of your road -[446.38 --> 447.94] And you're holding on -[447.94 --> 450.70] But feel like you're falling -[450.70 --> 452.80] With every option -[452.80 --> 453.80] With every option exhausted -[453.80 --> 455.80] With every option exhausted -[455.80 --> 457.80] You tried everything you know -[457.80 --> 462.84] You saw light then you lost it -[462.84 --> 465.80] But there is still hope -[465.80 --> 468.90] Like the fire in the night -[468.90 --> 472.90] Like the ocean parted wide -[472.90 --> 476.94] Like the grave empty inside -[476.94 --> 478.90] You will see -[478.90 --> 480.90] He still does -[480.90 --> 483.00] Miracles -[483.00 --> 484.00] Miracles -[484.00 --> 485.00] Miracles -[485.00 --> 486.00] Miracles -[486.00 --> 487.00] Miracles -[487.00 --> 489.00] Miracles -[489.00 --> 493.12] Even if you don't see it now -[493.12 --> 494.82] Without a doubt -[494.82 --> 497.00] He's already moving -[497.00 --> 501.04] There is not a pain that you hold -[501.04 --> 502.64] He doesn't know -[502.64 --> 505.48] And he isn't using -[505.48 --> 508.78] With every option exhausted -[508.78 --> 513.02] You tried everything you know -[513.02 --> 517.62] So reach for something beyond it -[517.62 --> 520.54] Cause he is our hope -[520.54 --> 524.46] Like the fire in the night -[524.46 --> 528.42] Like the ocean parted wide -[528.42 --> 532.28] Like the grave empty inside -[532.28 --> 534.14] You will see -[534.14 --> 536.28] He still does -[536.28 --> 537.68] Miracles -[537.68 --> 539.48] Miracles -[539.48 --> 541.48] Miracles -[541.48 --> 543.38] Miracles -[543.38 --> 545.38] Miracles -[545.38 --> 547.38] Miracles -[547.38 --> 549.38] Miracles -[549.38 --> 551.38] Miracles -[551.38 --> 556.02] A broken heart can be restored -[556.02 --> 559.98] A broken soul can be reborn -[559.98 --> 563.88] And greater things are still in store -[563.88 --> 566.04] For us -[566.04 --> 568.10] For us -[568.10 --> 573.24] Like the fire in the night -[573.24 --> 577.18] Like the ocean parted wide -[577.18 --> 581.02] Like the grave empty inside -[581.02 --> 582.96] You will see -[582.96 --> 585.08] He still does -[585.08 --> 586.48] Miracles -[586.48 --> 588.48] Miracles -[588.48 --> 590.48] Miracles -[590.48 --> 592.48] Miracles -[592.48 --> 594.48] Miracles -[594.48 --> 595.48] Miracles -[595.48 --> 596.48] Miracles -[596.48 --> 597.48] He's still there -[597.48 --> 599.48] He's still there -[599.48 --> 601.48] Miracles -[601.48 --> 603.48] You're the new kid -[603.48 --> 604.48] I'm dreaming -[604.48 --> 606.48] More than you -[606.48 --> 607.48] I'm not -[607.48 --> 609.48] Miracles -[609.48 --> 611.48] This is my -[611.48 --> 613.48] This is my -[613.48 --> 614.48] Miracles -[614.48 --> 615.48] Miracles -[615.48 --> 628.48] Miracles -[628.48 --> 658.46] I keep fighting voices in my mind that say I'm not enough. -[658.48 --> 688.46] I keep fighting voices in my mind that say I'm not enough. -[688.50 --> 690.46] And that we get to worship together. -[690.66 --> 691.66] My name is Chris. -[692.12 --> 695.04] I'm one of the pastors here at Langley Emanuel. -[695.30 --> 700.00] And it's my privilege this morning, along with these others, to lead in our shared worship together. -[700.62 --> 702.60] As I mentioned, we have a couple announcements. -[702.60 --> 714.92] First, immediately following worship today, well, I shouldn't say immediately, after our fellowship time and the like, youth coffee is going to happen. -[715.06 --> 716.96] And that's at the Verhoof home. -[716.96 --> 722.76] And so if you would need to know where that is, youth or parents of youth, you can talk to Pastor Kevin here. -[723.18 --> 725.08] Or Warren and Mel, who are over there. -[725.30 --> 727.72] They will let you know how to get to their house. -[727.72 --> 737.44] Additionally, Pastor Kevin asked me to remind all of you youth that registration for youth camp is open and active. -[738.22 --> 744.64] And so please do that quickly and get that done so that they can plan that weekend for you. -[744.64 --> 757.24] As well, today, this afternoon, at 2 p.m., a bunch of the women from our church are going to gather together for a baby blessing. -[757.24 --> 760.62] Is it the babies who are being blessed? -[760.70 --> 762.56] Are the parents of the babies who are being blessed? -[762.90 --> 768.22] Either way, there's a bit of a gathering, a party that's happening at 2 p.m. -[768.22 --> 769.20] That will be here. -[769.70 --> 775.48] And that's for five different baby girls that have born in our community in the last number of months. -[775.68 --> 781.14] And so please, if you have any questions about that, Wendy has answers. -[781.26 --> 782.02] Wendy, where are you? -[782.52 --> 783.42] Wendy is back there. -[783.54 --> 784.32] She has answers. -[784.32 --> 790.38] You can get her or grab me at the Connect booth, and I will connect you to Wendy or someone else with that. -[791.62 --> 793.28] Lastly, final announcement. -[793.66 --> 797.26] This coming Thursday is Ascension Day. -[798.10 --> 806.20] Ascension Day is the day that we remember Jesus ascending back to heaven after his resurrection. -[806.40 --> 812.06] So 40 days after the resurrection, Jesus ascended to the right hand of the Father. -[812.06 --> 816.62] And from there, he will come to judge the living and the dead, says the Apostles' Creed. -[817.44 --> 822.20] We're going to have a worship service to commemorate and celebrate that together. -[822.78 --> 824.78] And we're going to do that service a little bit differently. -[825.56 --> 827.02] And so we encourage you to come. -[827.44 --> 836.56] We're going to set up in this space here and kind of do it in the round in our worship together with a bit of an acoustic worship set. -[836.56 --> 838.54] And it's going to look a little different. -[838.64 --> 845.56] And so we encourage you to come, and we'd love to have you participate at 7 p.m. on Thursday together. -[846.34 --> 851.14] If you have any questions about that, you can also get me at the Connect booth following our worship. -[851.66 --> 853.34] I think that's it for announcements. -[854.20 --> 857.14] And so I'm going to invite you, as you're able, to stand. -[857.14 --> 865.16] And we can be ushered into the presence of our good God in worship by receiving his greeting. -[865.86 --> 872.46] After the greeting of God, I invite you to turn to those around you and welcome them into worship in whatever way you are comfortable. -[872.70 --> 881.10] With a fist bump or a head nod or a hug or a holy kiss, which is biblical, but also mind people's boundaries. -[881.10 --> 886.48] In our worship together, receive the greeting of God. -[887.76 --> 895.58] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, Son, and our Savior, -[896.18 --> 898.64] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[899.54 --> 899.88] Amen. -[911.10 --> 912.10] Amen. -[913.86 --> 915.72] Amen. -[915.72 --> 920.26] Amen. -[920.26 --> 943.72] Good morning. -[943.72 --> 943.76] Good morning. -[943.76 --> 973.74] Good morning. -[974.20 --> 978.44] Lord, we are grateful to be gathered together today to worship your holy name. -[979.06 --> 984.76] We offer our worship and our adoration to you, for only you are worthy to be praised. -[985.48 --> 991.26] We lift up our voices together, united as one community, to offer you all that you are due. -[992.10 --> 995.34] Thank you for bringing us together today to worship in this place. -[996.24 --> 996.52] Amen. -[997.18 --> 998.44] Please join us in worship. -[998.44 --> 998.56] Amen. -[1003.76 --> 1004.76] Amen. -[1004.76 --> 1005.76] Amen. -[1005.76 --> 1006.76] Amen. -[1006.76 --> 1007.76] Amen. -[1007.76 --> 1008.76] Amen. -[1008.76 --> 1009.76] Amen. -[1009.76 --> 1010.76] Amen. -[1010.76 --> 1011.76] Amen. -[1011.76 --> 1027.90] He has held the oceans in His hands, -[1027.90 --> 1033.20] He has no burdening grain of sand. -[1033.72 --> 1038.72] Kings and nations tremble at His voice, -[1038.72 --> 1045.16] All creation has to rejoice. -[1045.16 --> 1052.36] Behold our God, sing it on His song, -[1052.36 --> 1056.28] Come let us adore Him. -[1056.28 --> 1063.08] Behold our King, nothing can compare, -[1063.08 --> 1069.52] Come let us adore Him. -[1069.52 --> 1077.96] Who has given counsel to the Lord? -[1077.96 --> 1082.96] Who can question any of His words? -[1082.96 --> 1087.96] Who can teach the one who knows all things? -[1087.96 --> 1094.40] Who can follow all His wondrous deeds? -[1094.40 --> 1102.40] Behold our God, sing it on His throne, -[1102.40 --> 1106.40] Come let us adore Him. -[1106.40 --> 1112.84] Behold our King, nothing can compare, -[1112.84 --> 1119.28] Come let us adore Him. -[1119.28 --> 1133.72] Who has felt the nails upon His hands, -[1133.72 --> 1138.72] Bearing all the guilt of sinful men, -[1138.72 --> 1145.16] God eternal, helpful to the grave, -[1145.16 --> 1151.16] Jesus, Savior, risen now to reign. -[1151.16 --> 1157.60] Behold our King, nothing can compare, -[1157.60 --> 1161.60] Come let us adore Him. -[1161.60 --> 1167.60] Behold our King, nothing can compare, -[1167.60 --> 1173.60] Come let us adore Him. -[1173.60 --> 1186.04] Come let us adore Him. -[1186.04 --> 1190.04] Behold our King, nothing can compare, -[1190.04 --> 1193.04] Come let us adore Him. -[1193.04 --> 1196.04] Come let us adore Him. -[1196.04 --> 1200.04] Come let us adore Him. -[1200.04 --> 1224.10] Behold our King, nothing can compare, -[1224.10 --> 1236.24] Oh, darling, nothing can compare, come let us adore Him. -[1254.10 --> 1256.10] Amen. -[1284.10 --> 1296.28] Oh, God, my Father, there is no shadow of turning with me. -[1296.28 --> 1304.28] Thou changest not, but no passions may fail now. -[1304.80 --> 1311.36] The sound has been, but forever will be. -[1311.36 --> 1319.36] Great is Thy faithfulness, great is Thy faithfulness. -[1320.70 --> 1327.36] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[1328.76 --> 1335.36] All I have needed, Thy hand hath provided. -[1335.36 --> 1344.36] Praise the faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[1344.36 --> 1353.36] Summer and winter and springtime and harvest. -[1353.36 --> 1362.26] Sun, moon, and stars again, for saints of love. -[1362.36 --> 1369.36] Joyed with all nature and beautiful witness. -[1369.36 --> 1377.36] To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love. -[1377.36 --> 1386.50] Great is Thy faithfulness, great is Thy faithfulness. -[1386.70 --> 1393.36] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[1393.36 --> 1402.36] All I have needed, Thy hand hath provided. -[1402.36 --> 1410.36] Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[1410.36 --> 1427.36] God, O dear, praise us each year and tonight. -[1427.36 --> 1436.36] Straight or today and bright hope for tomorrow. -[1436.36 --> 1437.36] God, O dear, praise us each year and tonight. -[1437.36 --> 1438.36] Blessings, O Lord, to me. -[1438.36 --> 1441.36] Blessings, O Lord, unto me. -[1441.36 --> 1442.36] Father, Christ and Splatid. -[1442.36 --> 1444.36] All I have needed, мол, sc Philosophy all alone, -[1444.36 --> 1446.36] Justiona and earth and grace the ziemlichaya muy decent allí with 코co. -[1446.36 --> 1447.36] And with my kingdom,�� and miroed with fears, -[1447.36 --> 1450.36] All I have needed, and joyless rodzإ Movieones. -[1450.36 --> 1451.36] Its Espero, of course, is your voice again, 2070 òern f Indiana. -[1451.36 --> 1452.36] Maker, of course, is your Dios. -[1452.36 --> 1453.36] Yológito�ban 해. -[1453.36 --> 1456.36] Of course if you are Heeолет第1 Maiden, -[1456.36 --> 1457.36] tuition and shove. -[1457.36 --> 1458.36] взять some hope for商 Justinas дело. -[1458.36 --> 1462.36] defined by Ведьhu? -[1462.36 --> 1468.00] Be in thy hand and from thy hand. -[1468.46 --> 1474.90] Great is thy faithfulness for the two. -[1480.08 --> 1485.02] As we go into a time of confession this morning, we're going to do that through two songs. -[1485.02 --> 1489.62] And so at this time, I invite you to either sit through them or stand through them, -[1489.62 --> 1496.26] worship and confess and be assured in whichever way is most comfortable for you. -[1496.26 --> 1496.30] Thank you. -[1496.30 --> 1526.28] Thank you. -[1526.30 --> 1541.44] Take me back to where it all began, where all I ever wanted was your presence. -[1541.44 --> 1549.44] How I long to be there once again. -[1549.44 --> 1562.44] I don't know that the world can't burn and fan the flame, till nothing between us remains. -[1562.44 --> 1567.44] My life is an altar to you. -[1567.44 --> 1575.44] Breathe again, all the apers that burn in my heart. -[1575.44 --> 1579.44] Love, take me back to the storm. -[1579.44 --> 1584.44] My life is an altar to you. -[1584.44 --> 1594.44] Renew in me a pure and willing spirit. -[1594.44 --> 1609.44] Take me back to where it all began, before it all became so complicated. -[1609.44 --> 1616.44] I don't know that the world can't burn and fan the flame, till nothing between us remains. -[1616.44 --> 1618.44] My life is an altar to you. -[1618.44 --> 1622.44] I don't know that the world can burn and flame, till nothing between us remains. -[1622.44 --> 1623.44] My life is an altar to you. -[1623.44 --> 1629.44] My life is an altar to you. -[1629.44 --> 1630.44] Breathe again, all the apers that burn in my heart. -[1630.44 --> 1631.44] My life is an altar to you. -[1631.44 --> 1632.44] My life is an altar to you. -[1632.44 --> 1636.44] My life is an altar to you. -[1636.44 --> 1641.44] Breathe again, all the apers that burn in my heart. -[1641.44 --> 1645.44] Breathe again, all the apers that burn in my heart. -[1645.44 --> 1649.44] Love, take you back to the storm. -[1649.44 --> 1654.44] My life is an altar to you. -[1654.44 --> 1660.44] Lord, I'm sorry. -[1660.44 --> 1664.44] Please forgive me. -[1664.44 --> 1669.44] For when I've gone home, -[1669.44 --> 1674.44] Lord, I need you. -[1674.44 --> 1678.44] How I need you. -[1678.44 --> 1683.44] To awake my soul. -[1684.44 --> 1694.44] I don't know that the world can't burn and fan the flame, till nothing between us remains. -[1694.44 --> 1699.44] My life is an altar to you. -[1699.44 --> 1706.44] Breathe again, all the apers that burn in my heart. -[1706.44 --> 1708.44] A love taken back to the start. -[1708.44 --> 1710.44] My life is an altar to you. -[1710.44 --> 1712.44] My life is an altar to you. -[1712.44 --> 1714.44] My life is an altar to you. -[1714.44 --> 1716.44] My life is an altar to you. -[1716.44 --> 1717.44] surely a life can bear in your-, -[1717.44 --> 1726.44] what face, -[1726.44 --> 1727.44] how I... -[1727.44 --> 1729.44] or how You don't come with me. -[1729.44 --> 1731.44] I., youn, you, you, you, you, you, you. -[1731.44 --> 1733.44] I don't trust another much today, -[1733.44 --> 1735.44] so much as I feel for you. -[1735.44 --> 1744.08] And all the earth will shout your praise, our hearts will cry, these bones will sing, -[1744.08 --> 1749.96] Great are you, Lord? -[1752.46 --> 1761.38] And all the earth will shout your praise, our hearts will cry, these bones will sing, -[1761.38 --> 1768.94] Great are you, Lord? -[1769.60 --> 1778.36] And all the earth will shout your praise, our hearts will cry, these bones will sing, -[1778.74 --> 1784.10] Great are you, Lord? -[1784.10 --> 1791.94] Bless your eyes, your hands will let you pray, these bones worth gone, -[1792.32 --> 1794.32] Banzar is your name, we are you, Lord? -[1794.32 --> 1797.54] And all the earth will Saint, Bible says, -[1797.54 --> 1797.82] Our hearts will tell you, Lord, I will Heil who is and I will show you what you're doing here, -[1797.82 --> 1801.34] Amen. -[1801.80 --> 1803.98] Our hearts will classify, these bones will show you what you're doing here, -[1803.98 --> 1808.94] Whoseominions and the whole world have done? -[1808.94 --> 1812.10] Great are you, Lord, we pray, these God's good, I will say, theseため we pray, these mujer is worth six seconds, -[1812.10 --> 1820.98] Praise is your breath in our lungs, so we pour out our praise to you only. -[1820.98 --> 1845.98] I'm sorry, please forgive me, for when I'm gone cold, Lord I need you. -[1845.98 --> 1855.98] How I need you to awake my soul. -[1875.98 --> 1885.98] How I need you to awake my soul. -[1885.98 --> 1891.98] How I need you to awake my soul. -[1891.98 --> 1897.98] How I need you to awake my soul. -[1897.98 --> 1899.98] Thank you, amen. -[1899.98 --> 1901.98] Thank you. -[1901.98 --> 1911.98] Hope the goodness to do things you'reρη知 at them today. -[1911.98 --> 1927.98] My Savior lives, because He lives, I can face tomorrow, because He lives, all fear is known. -[1927.98 --> 1940.98] Because I know He knows the future, and life is worth the living just because He lives. -[1940.98 --> 1965.32] I'll speak to home, a newborn baby, and feel the pride and joy He gives, but greater still, the calm assurance, this child can face uncertain days. -[1965.32 --> 1980.32] Because I live, because He lives, I can face tomorrow, because He lives, all fear is known. -[1981.32 --> 1993.32] Because I know He knows the future, and life is worth the living just because He lives. -[1993.32 --> 2006.32] And then one day, I'll cross that river, I'll fight life's final war with pain. -[2006.32 --> 2020.32] And then as death gives way to victory, I'll see the lights of glory, and I'll know He lives. -[2020.32 --> 2034.32] Because He lives, I can face tomorrow, because He lives, all fear is known. -[2034.32 --> 2047.32] Because I know He holds the future, and life is worth the living just because He lives. -[2047.32 --> 2051.32] And life is worth the living just because He lives. -[2051.32 --> 2065.32] And life is worth the living just because He lives, all fear is worth the living just because He lives. -[2065.32 --> 2068.32] Good morning, my name is Mike, and I'm a deacon here at the church. -[2068.32 --> 2071.32] And we have an opportunity now to give of our financial gifts. -[2071.32 --> 2074.32] So today we're giving to New Ground Ministries. -[2074.32 --> 2080.32] It's actually a ministry of the CRC church, and it's tied to the Diaconal Ministries of Canada. -[2080.32 --> 2089.32] But what makes them especially special is their model is they help fund new ministries -[2089.32 --> 2093.32] and help come alongside like grassroots ministries that are kind of community focused. -[2093.32 --> 2100.32] So it's a national sort of little sub-organization that really helps get good new ministries off the ground. -[2100.32 --> 2107.32] But the piece that's really cool about them, I was involved with them for a couple of years, is they also offer coaching. -[2107.32 --> 2114.32] So they'll coach a new ministry or a new organization for about three years as they also provide funds to help them get started. -[2114.32 --> 2121.32] So look them up. You can look at the list of organizations they have helped get off the ground and are healthy today. -[2121.32 --> 2127.32] And we also actually have two members of our congregation that are committee members for the National Committee, -[2127.32 --> 2129.32] and that's Kim Prins and Ali Stam. -[2129.32 --> 2133.32] So if you have other questions about New Ground, I'm sure they'd love to fill you in. -[2133.32 --> 2135.32] Thank you for giving this morning. -[2151.32 --> 2158.32] Thank you. -[2158.32 --> 2163.32] Thank you. -[2163.32 --> 2166.32] Thank you. -[2166.32 --> 2171.14] Through your Holy Spirit -[2171.14 --> 2175.04] Conceiving Christ the Son -[2175.04 --> 2177.72] Jesus our Savior -[2177.72 --> 2183.14] I believe in all the water -[2183.14 --> 2186.40] I believe in Christ the Son -[2186.40 --> 2189.54] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[2189.54 --> 2192.64] For God is three in one -[2192.64 --> 2195.32] I believe in the resurrection -[2195.32 --> 2198.70] That we will rise again -[2198.70 --> 2204.30] For I believe in the name of Jesus -[2204.30 --> 2220.32] Our judge and our defender -[2220.32 --> 2223.40] Suffered and crucified -[2223.40 --> 2228.78] Forgiveness is in you -[2228.78 --> 2232.38] Descended into darkness -[2232.38 --> 2236.38] You rose in glorious light -[2236.78 --> 2240.78] Forever seated high -[2240.78 --> 2246.16] I believe in God our Father -[2246.16 --> 2248.76] I believe in Christ the Son -[2248.76 --> 2251.76] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[2251.76 --> 2255.16] Our God is three in one -[2255.16 --> 2258.16] I believe in the resurrection -[2258.16 --> 2263.54] That we will rise again -[2263.54 --> 2267.14] I believe in the name of Jesus -[2267.14 --> 2274.54] I believe in you -[2274.54 --> 2283.52] I believe in you -[2283.52 --> 2288.52] I believe in you -[2288.52 --> 2291.52] I believe in you -[2291.52 --> 2299.50] I believe in your soul -[2299.50 --> 2300.34] I believe in you -[2300.34 --> 2303.90] I believe in you -[2303.90 --> 2304.50] I believe in you -[2304.50 --> 2307.90] I believe in you -[2307.90 --> 2308.74] I believe in, you rose again -[2308.74 --> 2310.58] I believe in you -[2310.58 --> 2311.00] I believe in you -[2311.00 --> 2311.78] I believe in you -[2311.78 --> 2312.54] I believe in you -[2312.54 --> 2312.68] I believe in you -[2312.68 --> 2314.92] Christ is -[2314.92 --> 2315.98] Lord -[2315.98 --> 2322.96] I believe in -[2322.96 --> 2324.36] life eternal -[2324.36 --> 2326.78] I believe in the virgin -[2326.78 --> 2328.80] birth I believe -[2328.80 --> 2330.76] in the saints communion -[2330.76 --> 2332.64] and in your -[2332.64 --> 2334.26] holy church -[2334.26 --> 2336.96] I believe in the resurrection -[2336.96 --> 2338.66] when Jesus -[2338.66 --> 2340.42] comes again -[2340.42 --> 2342.42] for I believe -[2342.42 --> 2345.12] in the name of -[2345.12 --> 2346.04] Jesus -[2346.04 --> 2349.02] I believe in God our -[2349.02 --> 2350.98] Father I believe -[2350.98 --> 2352.82] in Christ the Son -[2352.82 --> 2354.94] I believe in the Holy -[2354.94 --> 2357.20] Spirit our God -[2357.20 --> 2359.10] is three and one -[2359.10 --> 2361.82] I believe in the resurrection -[2361.82 --> 2363.28] that we -[2363.28 --> 2365.28] will rise again -[2365.28 --> 2367.10] for I believe -[2367.10 --> 2369.20] in the name -[2369.20 --> 2370.96] of Jesus -[2370.96 --> 2373.58] for I believe -[2373.58 --> 2375.58] in the name -[2375.58 --> 2377.56] of Jesus -[2377.56 --> 2381.34] I believe in the Lord -[2381.34 --> 2383.12] I believe in the Holy -[2383.12 --> 2383.18] God -[2383.18 --> 2383.94] is three and one -[2383.94 --> 2385.26] I believe in the Holy -[2385.26 --> 2386.18] Spirit our God -[2386.18 --> 2387.04] is three and one -[2387.04 --> 2388.78] of the Holy -[2388.78 --> 2389.76] and one -[2389.76 --> 2390.32] of the Holy -[2390.32 --> 2390.94] good morning -[2390.94 --> 2391.88] I'd like to invite -[2391.88 --> 2392.96] any kids forward -[2392.96 --> 2394.32] who are age three -[2394.32 --> 2394.90] all the way up -[2394.90 --> 2395.80] to grade four -[2395.80 --> 2396.64] to join us -[2396.64 --> 2397.46] at the front here -[2397.46 --> 2398.18] for Kids Corner -[2398.18 --> 2399.44] and then we'll be -[2399.44 --> 2400.24] heading off -[2400.24 --> 2401.52] to continue our -[2401.52 --> 2402.76] worship and learning -[2402.76 --> 2403.98] in children's worship time -[2403.98 --> 2409.46] we're missing some -[2409.46 --> 2411.04] of our older girls -[2411.04 --> 2411.60] today because -[2411.60 --> 2412.80] they're at Gems Camp -[2412.80 --> 2413.40] for the weekend -[2413.40 --> 2414.02] maybe some of your -[2414.02 --> 2415.64] sisters or you notice -[2415.64 --> 2416.42] that they're not here -[2416.42 --> 2418.08] so I'm going to tell you -[2418.08 --> 2418.68] about something -[2418.68 --> 2420.02] that I did -[2420.02 --> 2420.58] on the weekend -[2420.58 --> 2422.32] I went to see -[2422.32 --> 2423.02] a play -[2423.02 --> 2424.18] and the play -[2424.18 --> 2425.46] was a musical -[2425.46 --> 2426.60] of Frozen -[2426.60 --> 2427.82] has anyone here -[2427.82 --> 2428.56] seen the movie -[2428.56 --> 2429.06] Frozen? -[2430.10 --> 2430.40] yeah? -[2430.68 --> 2431.32] you know a little bit -[2431.32 --> 2431.74] about Frozen? -[2431.74 --> 2432.20] great -[2432.20 --> 2433.04] I'm wondering -[2433.04 --> 2433.58] who are some -[2433.58 --> 2434.32] of your favorite -[2434.32 --> 2436.12] characters in Frozen -[2436.12 --> 2436.84] who do you really -[2436.84 --> 2437.80] like watching? -[2439.08 --> 2439.60] Elsa -[2439.60 --> 2441.94] Kristoff -[2441.94 --> 2444.02] Olaf -[2444.02 --> 2445.80] Elsa -[2445.80 --> 2446.82] Everly -[2446.82 --> 2447.98] Elsa -[2447.98 --> 2448.98] those are really -[2448.98 --> 2449.98] lovable people -[2449.98 --> 2450.16] right? -[2450.22 --> 2450.98] those are the characters -[2450.98 --> 2451.76] that we all like -[2451.76 --> 2452.82] Olaf's so funny -[2452.82 --> 2453.90] of course we like him -[2453.90 --> 2454.94] I really like Sven -[2454.94 --> 2456.06] and the way he talks -[2456.06 --> 2457.96] but yesterday -[2457.96 --> 2458.56] when we were -[2458.56 --> 2459.60] at this musical -[2459.60 --> 2460.92] when Elsa was -[2460.92 --> 2462.06] singing her song -[2462.06 --> 2463.06] and when Anna -[2463.06 --> 2464.76] was being herself -[2464.76 --> 2465.76] and Olaf was doing -[2465.76 --> 2466.58] his little jokes -[2466.58 --> 2467.48] everyone laughed -[2467.48 --> 2468.56] but there was -[2468.56 --> 2469.14] someone else -[2469.14 --> 2470.30] in the play -[2470.30 --> 2471.92] and toward the end -[2471.92 --> 2472.24] of the movie -[2472.24 --> 2472.94] he did something -[2472.94 --> 2474.10] that was really mean -[2474.10 --> 2475.82] Hans -[2475.82 --> 2476.60] yeah -[2476.60 --> 2477.92] and do you know -[2477.92 --> 2478.68] what people did -[2478.68 --> 2479.54] when Hans -[2479.54 --> 2481.16] was at the -[2481.16 --> 2482.00] kind of at the end -[2482.00 --> 2482.80] when he was saying -[2482.80 --> 2483.78] that he didn't -[2483.78 --> 2484.86] actually love Anna -[2484.86 --> 2485.24] do you know -[2485.24 --> 2485.78] what they did? -[2486.36 --> 2487.38] the whole audience -[2487.38 --> 2487.82] went -[2487.82 --> 2488.92] boo -[2488.92 --> 2492.96] they booed him -[2492.96 --> 2493.38] do you know -[2493.38 --> 2494.20] why they booed him? -[2495.00 --> 2495.80] well because he's -[2495.80 --> 2497.02] kind of hard to like -[2497.02 --> 2497.60] right? -[2497.72 --> 2498.74] he's not very nice -[2498.74 --> 2500.78] he doesn't do -[2500.78 --> 2501.50] kind things -[2501.50 --> 2502.12] to other people -[2502.12 --> 2503.04] and he tricks Anna -[2503.04 --> 2503.30] right? -[2503.36 --> 2504.32] and it's hard to like him -[2504.32 --> 2505.66] so today -[2505.66 --> 2506.54] in children's worship -[2506.54 --> 2507.26] what we're going to -[2507.26 --> 2507.78] talk about -[2507.78 --> 2508.74] is that God -[2508.74 --> 2509.62] wants us to love -[2509.62 --> 2510.66] people who are -[2510.66 --> 2511.68] hard to love -[2511.68 --> 2513.52] people like Hans -[2513.52 --> 2514.70] who might be hard to love -[2514.70 --> 2515.56] so we're going to -[2515.56 --> 2515.92] think about -[2515.92 --> 2516.54] what that means -[2516.54 --> 2517.20] for us -[2517.20 --> 2518.00] and our life -[2518.00 --> 2518.76] and how we love -[2518.76 --> 2519.70] those around us -[2519.70 --> 2520.98] so I'd like to -[2520.98 --> 2522.20] invite you to stand up -[2522.20 --> 2522.82] and we're going to -[2522.82 --> 2523.66] do the children's -[2523.66 --> 2524.00] blessing -[2524.00 --> 2525.42] and then head off -[2547.20 --> 2563.40] good morning -[2563.40 --> 2564.64] I'm Steve -[2564.64 --> 2565.22] an elder here -[2565.22 --> 2566.36] and I have the pleasure -[2566.36 --> 2567.48] of leading -[2567.48 --> 2569.02] prayer this morning -[2569.02 --> 2570.56] let's pray -[2570.56 --> 2573.54] ever faithful -[2573.54 --> 2575.20] resurrecting God -[2575.20 --> 2575.64] and Father -[2575.64 --> 2577.12] we thank you -[2577.12 --> 2578.32] for being our God -[2578.32 --> 2579.30] and calling us -[2579.30 --> 2579.88] into communion -[2579.88 --> 2580.38] with you -[2580.38 --> 2582.32] thank you for giving us -[2582.32 --> 2583.04] prayer -[2583.04 --> 2584.18] as a way to communicate -[2584.18 --> 2585.38] a way to praise -[2585.38 --> 2586.26] praise you -[2586.26 --> 2588.06] to confess our shortcomings -[2588.06 --> 2589.72] to give you thanks -[2589.72 --> 2591.00] a way to petition -[2591.00 --> 2591.66] and claim -[2591.66 --> 2592.48] your promises -[2592.48 --> 2594.40] and a way to ask you -[2594.40 --> 2595.00] to intercede -[2595.00 --> 2595.60] in our lives -[2595.60 --> 2596.50] in the lives -[2596.50 --> 2596.98] of others -[2596.98 --> 2598.40] you are the one -[2598.40 --> 2599.36] constant in life -[2599.36 --> 2601.82] Lord you are the creator -[2601.82 --> 2602.94] the one who shapes -[2602.94 --> 2604.14] and molds all things -[2604.14 --> 2605.56] and the one who gives us -[2605.56 --> 2606.56] purpose and meaning -[2606.56 --> 2608.26] help us to recognize -[2608.26 --> 2609.80] that we need to be -[2609.80 --> 2610.82] reconciled with you -[2610.82 --> 2611.54] before we are -[2611.54 --> 2613.28] able to fully reconcile -[2613.28 --> 2614.14] with one another -[2614.14 --> 2616.40] work in our hearts -[2616.40 --> 2617.18] and shape us -[2617.18 --> 2618.02] through the work -[2618.02 --> 2618.94] of the Holy Spirit -[2618.94 --> 2620.02] a shaping -[2620.02 --> 2620.86] that never seems -[2620.86 --> 2621.92] to be easy -[2621.92 --> 2622.46] to endure -[2622.46 --> 2623.64] or understand -[2623.64 --> 2625.46] Lord we confess -[2625.46 --> 2626.38] that we resist -[2626.38 --> 2627.10] being shaped -[2627.10 --> 2628.32] through life's -[2628.32 --> 2628.96] circumstances -[2628.96 --> 2629.74] and the works -[2629.74 --> 2630.14] and gifts -[2630.14 --> 2631.00] of the Holy Spirit -[2631.00 --> 2632.72] instead we allow -[2632.72 --> 2633.56] our egos to get -[2633.56 --> 2633.96] in the way -[2633.96 --> 2635.08] and allow ourselves -[2635.08 --> 2635.68] to be shaped -[2635.68 --> 2637.14] by the many external -[2637.14 --> 2638.14] influences of the world -[2638.14 --> 2638.76] around us -[2638.76 --> 2640.28] we confess -[2640.28 --> 2641.38] that rather being shaped -[2641.38 --> 2642.12] by your teachings -[2642.12 --> 2642.88] and instructions -[2642.88 --> 2644.22] and by the gifts -[2644.22 --> 2644.78] and talents -[2644.78 --> 2645.84] that you give each of us -[2645.84 --> 2647.14] we look to the world -[2647.14 --> 2647.68] around us -[2647.68 --> 2648.46] for affirmation -[2648.46 --> 2648.88] and meaning -[2648.88 --> 2650.72] we often aimlessly -[2650.72 --> 2652.28] follow each new trend -[2652.28 --> 2653.50] we confess -[2653.50 --> 2654.32] that we would rather -[2654.32 --> 2655.64] walk the smooth path -[2655.64 --> 2656.40] than to endure -[2656.40 --> 2657.66] struggles and temptations -[2657.66 --> 2658.96] we confess -[2658.96 --> 2660.18] that we easily -[2660.18 --> 2660.74] complain -[2660.74 --> 2661.60] when faced -[2661.60 --> 2662.22] with difficulties -[2662.22 --> 2663.32] rather than -[2663.32 --> 2664.20] follow the example -[2664.20 --> 2665.10] set by your son -[2665.10 --> 2666.36] we confess -[2666.36 --> 2667.20] that we often -[2667.20 --> 2667.74] lose sight -[2667.74 --> 2668.32] of what is really -[2668.32 --> 2668.78] important -[2668.78 --> 2669.90] forgive us father -[2669.90 --> 2671.52] open our eyes -[2671.52 --> 2672.06] and our hearts -[2672.06 --> 2672.76] to your plan -[2672.76 --> 2673.22] and purpose -[2673.22 --> 2673.80] in our lives -[2673.80 --> 2674.64] fill us with -[2674.64 --> 2675.22] your blessings -[2675.22 --> 2678.06] thank you for love -[2678.06 --> 2679.26] for not only -[2679.26 --> 2679.92] the outpouring -[2679.92 --> 2680.56] of your love -[2680.56 --> 2681.42] but also the love -[2681.42 --> 2682.40] of family and friends -[2682.40 --> 2683.10] and the acts -[2683.10 --> 2683.50] of love -[2683.50 --> 2684.54] and kindness -[2684.54 --> 2685.20] shown to -[2685.20 --> 2686.80] and by others -[2686.80 --> 2687.80] thank you -[2687.80 --> 2688.86] for your all sufficient -[2688.86 --> 2690.00] grace in our lives -[2690.00 --> 2690.90] help us to be -[2690.90 --> 2691.76] living examples -[2691.76 --> 2693.44] showing kindness -[2693.44 --> 2694.00] goodness -[2694.00 --> 2694.72] faithfulness -[2694.72 --> 2695.28] gentleness -[2695.28 --> 2696.36] and self-control -[2696.36 --> 2698.64] lord we know -[2698.64 --> 2699.40] that we are called -[2699.40 --> 2699.96] to action -[2699.96 --> 2701.20] to express our faith -[2701.20 --> 2702.00] in all we do -[2702.00 --> 2704.04] we do not fully -[2704.04 --> 2705.48] know or understand -[2705.48 --> 2706.02] your will -[2706.02 --> 2706.62] and our plan -[2706.62 --> 2707.46] for our lives -[2707.46 --> 2708.46] but teach us -[2708.46 --> 2708.92] to trust -[2708.92 --> 2709.56] and obey you -[2709.56 --> 2710.96] help us to hear -[2710.96 --> 2711.74] your call -[2711.74 --> 2713.72] for our lives -[2713.72 --> 2714.48] and move forward -[2714.48 --> 2715.00] in faith -[2715.00 --> 2716.96] lord we thank you -[2716.96 --> 2717.46] for allowing -[2717.46 --> 2718.12] to bring us -[2718.12 --> 2719.56] our petitions -[2719.56 --> 2719.96] to you -[2719.96 --> 2720.58] we pray -[2720.58 --> 2721.94] for the ongoing -[2721.94 --> 2722.70] issues -[2722.70 --> 2723.62] around our globe -[2723.62 --> 2724.68] we think of wars -[2724.68 --> 2725.38] and conflicts -[2725.38 --> 2726.92] in many regions -[2726.92 --> 2728.86] we pray for our leaders -[2728.86 --> 2730.34] provide them wisdom -[2730.34 --> 2731.20] and discernment -[2731.20 --> 2733.04] we pray for those -[2733.04 --> 2734.10] affected by poverty -[2734.10 --> 2734.62] and hungry -[2734.62 --> 2736.36] and the hungry -[2736.36 --> 2738.08] in both the poor nations -[2738.08 --> 2739.16] and the rich nations -[2739.16 --> 2739.80] of our world -[2739.80 --> 2741.42] help us -[2741.42 --> 2742.94] who are -[2742.94 --> 2744.52] who are more fortunate -[2744.52 --> 2745.68] not to close our eyes -[2745.68 --> 2746.12] or ears -[2746.12 --> 2746.74] to the calls -[2746.74 --> 2747.18] for help -[2747.18 --> 2750.72] in our own church -[2750.72 --> 2751.18] community -[2751.18 --> 2752.50] we pray for the -[2752.50 --> 2753.20] GEMS ministry -[2753.20 --> 2753.94] and the leaders -[2753.94 --> 2754.46] and the girls -[2754.46 --> 2755.08] that are at camp -[2755.08 --> 2755.60] this weekend -[2755.60 --> 2756.62] we pray they've had -[2756.62 --> 2757.28] a great time -[2757.28 --> 2757.90] of fellowship -[2757.90 --> 2758.40] and fun -[2758.40 --> 2760.56] with much gratitude -[2760.56 --> 2761.34] we thank God -[2761.34 --> 2761.80] for the healing -[2761.80 --> 2762.56] of John Koenig -[2762.56 --> 2764.20] from stage 4 melanoma -[2764.20 --> 2764.88] we pray that -[2764.88 --> 2765.74] for John -[2765.74 --> 2766.44] as he adjusts -[2766.44 --> 2767.32] for all the side effects -[2767.32 --> 2767.96] of the treatment -[2767.96 --> 2769.72] he just endured -[2769.72 --> 2770.76] and works towards -[2770.76 --> 2771.20] regaining -[2771.20 --> 2772.28] his overall health -[2772.28 --> 2774.36] we are thankful -[2774.36 --> 2775.56] that Judy Dykstra -[2775.56 --> 2776.24] is back home -[2776.24 --> 2776.80] and recovering -[2776.80 --> 2780.08] we pray for Ryland -[2780.08 --> 2781.44] and Laura Benny -[2781.44 --> 2782.20] as they lost -[2782.20 --> 2783.22] their young baby boy -[2783.22 --> 2783.84] Jack -[2783.84 --> 2785.66] we pray for comfort -[2785.66 --> 2786.46] for this family -[2786.46 --> 2787.58] during this time -[2787.58 --> 2788.52] of immense loss -[2788.52 --> 2790.92] we pray for comfort -[2790.92 --> 2792.06] for Grace Vanderdeen -[2792.06 --> 2792.68] as her mom -[2792.68 --> 2793.70] passed away -[2793.70 --> 2795.20] this past week -[2795.20 --> 2796.38] and we pray -[2796.38 --> 2797.02] for the family -[2797.02 --> 2797.78] of Amy Kahn -[2797.78 --> 2799.10] who passed away -[2799.10 --> 2799.98] several weeks ago -[2799.98 --> 2802.00] may the peace of Christ -[2802.00 --> 2802.98] be near these families -[2802.98 --> 2803.70] during this time -[2803.70 --> 2804.20] of loss -[2804.20 --> 2808.26] be with all those -[2808.26 --> 2808.88] that are suffering -[2808.88 --> 2809.42] and struggling -[2809.42 --> 2810.18] and help us -[2810.18 --> 2810.84] to reach out -[2810.84 --> 2812.66] to provide assistance -[2812.66 --> 2813.60] and a listening ear -[2813.60 --> 2814.76] we pray for healing -[2814.76 --> 2815.34] and restoration -[2815.34 --> 2816.44] for those we know -[2816.44 --> 2817.12] about -[2817.12 --> 2817.94] and those who are -[2817.94 --> 2818.94] suffering in silence -[2818.94 --> 2820.80] and we pray -[2820.80 --> 2821.38] for the wisdom -[2821.38 --> 2821.92] and guidance -[2821.92 --> 2823.20] as we finalize -[2823.20 --> 2824.16] our nominations -[2824.16 --> 2825.50] for our new -[2825.50 --> 2826.18] office bearers -[2826.18 --> 2826.88] for the coming year -[2826.88 --> 2829.16] this morning -[2829.16 --> 2829.64] we pray -[2829.64 --> 2830.38] that you be with -[2830.38 --> 2830.98] Pastor Chris -[2830.98 --> 2831.90] as he leads us -[2831.90 --> 2834.02] Lord we thank you -[2834.02 --> 2834.66] for his willingness -[2834.66 --> 2835.64] to share his gifts -[2835.64 --> 2836.88] with us here at Emmanuel -[2836.88 --> 2837.60] and we ask that you -[2837.60 --> 2838.00] bless him -[2838.00 --> 2838.52] in his message -[2838.52 --> 2839.06] this morning -[2839.06 --> 2840.72] we pray all this -[2840.72 --> 2842.46] in the name of Jesus Christ -[2842.46 --> 2844.08] your son -[2844.08 --> 2845.18] our Lord and Savior -[2845.18 --> 2846.24] Amen -[2846.24 --> 2865.98] to pick up -[2865.98 --> 2867.84] in essence -[2867.84 --> 2868.36] from where -[2868.36 --> 2869.62] Nikki brought us -[2869.62 --> 2870.86] I'll do my best -[2870.86 --> 2871.62] this morning -[2871.62 --> 2873.44] to leave -[2873.44 --> 2874.48] where you're -[2874.48 --> 2875.16] you're not -[2875.16 --> 2875.78] booing me -[2875.78 --> 2876.38] off stage -[2876.38 --> 2880.54] as we dig -[2880.54 --> 2881.22] into our text -[2881.22 --> 2881.68] this morning -[2881.68 --> 2882.78] we're going to read -[2882.78 --> 2884.34] from Romans 15 -[2884.34 --> 2885.84] 1 through 13 -[2885.84 --> 2888.08] and let me just -[2888.08 --> 2888.68] sort of set -[2888.68 --> 2889.74] the stage -[2889.74 --> 2890.16] because -[2890.16 --> 2892.16] we come into -[2892.16 --> 2892.70] this -[2892.70 --> 2893.60] recognizing -[2893.60 --> 2895.84] that we all -[2895.84 --> 2896.80] know people -[2896.80 --> 2897.92] but none of us -[2897.92 --> 2898.88] are those people -[2898.88 --> 2900.72] who are -[2900.72 --> 2902.04] disagreeable -[2902.04 --> 2904.94] someone got it -[2904.94 --> 2905.46] over there -[2905.46 --> 2907.04] right -[2907.04 --> 2907.52] we all know -[2907.52 --> 2908.36] people who -[2908.36 --> 2909.44] seems like -[2909.44 --> 2910.32] they want to -[2910.32 --> 2911.62] argue everything -[2911.62 --> 2912.04] you say -[2912.04 --> 2912.94] just for the sake -[2912.94 --> 2913.42] of arguing -[2913.42 --> 2914.34] everything you say -[2914.34 --> 2916.60] and I'll be honest -[2916.60 --> 2919.06] it's kind of fun -[2919.06 --> 2920.96] I'm kind of that -[2920.96 --> 2921.72] guy sometimes -[2921.72 --> 2922.60] I enjoy -[2922.60 --> 2923.74] a good argument -[2923.74 --> 2925.46] I enjoy -[2925.46 --> 2926.54] a hard -[2926.54 --> 2927.44] discussion -[2927.44 --> 2931.00] but what -[2931.00 --> 2931.98] happens -[2931.98 --> 2933.26] and again -[2933.26 --> 2933.84] this doesn't -[2933.84 --> 2934.38] happen here -[2934.38 --> 2936.10] when there are -[2936.10 --> 2936.58] people -[2936.58 --> 2938.06] who -[2938.06 --> 2939.62] seem to -[2939.62 --> 2940.28] thrive -[2940.28 --> 2941.92] in fostering -[2941.92 --> 2942.70] disunity -[2942.70 --> 2946.12] what happens -[2946.12 --> 2947.18] when there's -[2947.18 --> 2947.92] a group -[2947.92 --> 2948.78] that is -[2948.78 --> 2949.26] being -[2949.26 --> 2950.18] torn apart -[2950.18 --> 2952.12] by -[2952.12 --> 2952.74] people -[2952.74 --> 2953.38] who -[2953.38 --> 2954.86] for one -[2954.86 --> 2955.28] reason -[2955.28 --> 2955.98] or another -[2955.98 --> 2956.72] sometimes -[2956.72 --> 2958.08] more legitimate -[2958.08 --> 2958.70] than other -[2958.70 --> 2959.28] times -[2959.28 --> 2960.80] want to -[2960.80 --> 2961.22] tear that -[2961.22 --> 2961.60] community -[2961.60 --> 2962.00] apart -[2962.00 --> 2964.60] this text -[2964.60 --> 2964.98] is the -[2964.98 --> 2965.40] answer -[2965.40 --> 2966.56] I believe -[2966.56 --> 2967.46] to that -[2967.46 --> 2969.02] so I'm -[2969.02 --> 2969.48] going to read -[2969.48 --> 2971.24] Romans 15 -[2971.24 --> 2972.38] verses 1 -[2972.38 --> 2973.24] through 13 -[2973.24 --> 2974.32] together -[2974.32 --> 2975.74] now in many -[2975.74 --> 2976.04] ways -[2976.04 --> 2977.02] if you are -[2977.02 --> 2977.34] a guest -[2977.34 --> 2977.78] with us -[2977.78 --> 2978.42] this text -[2978.42 --> 2979.12] picks up -[2979.12 --> 2979.56] in a -[2979.56 --> 2980.28] longer -[2980.28 --> 2981.04] conversation -[2981.04 --> 2981.48] we've been -[2981.48 --> 2981.96] having for -[2981.96 --> 2982.32] the last -[2982.32 --> 2982.94] few weeks -[2982.94 --> 2983.78] I'll do -[2983.78 --> 2984.06] a little -[2984.06 --> 2984.46] bit to -[2984.46 --> 2984.92] recap -[2984.92 --> 2986.80] but -[2986.80 --> 2987.38] just -[2987.38 --> 2987.82] recognize -[2987.82 --> 2988.16] that we're -[2988.16 --> 2988.42] starting -[2988.42 --> 2991.64] mid story -[2991.64 --> 2992.16] or mid -[2992.16 --> 2992.58] stream -[2992.58 --> 2993.82] in chapter -[2993.82 --> 2994.30] 15 -[2994.30 --> 2994.90] you might -[2994.90 --> 2995.16] even be -[2995.16 --> 2995.42] able to -[2995.42 --> 2995.96] see that -[2995.96 --> 2996.94] based on -[2996.94 --> 2997.50] the translation -[2997.50 --> 2997.98] you're reading -[2997.98 --> 2998.24] from -[2998.24 --> 2998.54] that there's -[2998.54 --> 2998.92] no new -[2998.92 --> 2999.24] heading -[2999.24 --> 3000.08] there -[3000.08 --> 3000.54] so -[3000.54 --> 3001.04] here we -[3001.04 --> 3001.28] go -[3001.28 --> 3003.52] we who -[3003.52 --> 3004.30] are strong -[3004.30 --> 3004.96] ought to -[3004.96 --> 3005.44] bear with -[3005.44 --> 3006.08] the failings -[3006.08 --> 3006.40] of the -[3006.40 --> 3006.78] weak -[3006.78 --> 3007.66] and not -[3007.66 --> 3008.28] please -[3008.28 --> 3008.74] ourselves -[3008.74 --> 3010.62] each of -[3010.62 --> 3011.16] us should -[3011.16 --> 3011.74] please our -[3011.74 --> 3012.08] neighbors -[3012.08 --> 3013.04] for their -[3013.04 --> 3013.54] good -[3013.54 --> 3014.46] to build -[3014.46 --> 3014.90] them -[3014.90 --> 3015.22] up -[3015.22 --> 3017.12] for even -[3017.12 --> 3017.66] Christ -[3017.66 --> 3018.26] did not -[3018.26 --> 3018.64] please -[3018.64 --> 3019.18] himself -[3019.18 --> 3020.06] but as -[3020.06 --> 3020.42] it is -[3020.42 --> 3020.66] written -[3020.66 --> 3021.90] the insults -[3021.90 --> 3022.44] of those -[3022.44 --> 3023.14] who insult -[3023.14 --> 3023.48] you -[3023.48 --> 3024.20] have fallen -[3024.20 --> 3024.88] on me -[3024.88 --> 3026.88] for everything -[3026.88 --> 3027.40] that was -[3027.40 --> 3027.88] written in -[3027.88 --> 3028.40] the past -[3028.40 --> 3028.88] was written -[3028.88 --> 3029.46] to teach -[3029.46 --> 3029.84] us -[3029.84 --> 3030.60] so that -[3030.60 --> 3031.24] through the -[3031.24 --> 3031.82] endurance -[3031.82 --> 3032.40] taught in -[3032.40 --> 3032.88] the scriptures -[3032.88 --> 3033.62] and the -[3033.62 --> 3034.16] encouragement -[3034.16 --> 3035.02] they provide -[3035.02 --> 3035.86] we might -[3035.86 --> 3036.40] have -[3036.40 --> 3037.14] hope -[3037.14 --> 3039.82] may the -[3039.82 --> 3040.34] God who -[3040.34 --> 3040.80] gives -[3040.80 --> 3041.36] endurance -[3041.36 --> 3041.92] and -[3041.92 --> 3042.60] encouragement -[3042.60 --> 3043.58] give you -[3043.58 --> 3044.20] the same -[3044.20 --> 3044.72] attitude -[3044.72 --> 3045.62] of mind -[3045.62 --> 3046.48] toward each -[3046.48 --> 3046.82] other -[3046.82 --> 3047.80] that Christ -[3047.80 --> 3048.72] Jesus had -[3048.72 --> 3049.70] so that -[3049.70 --> 3050.28] with one -[3050.28 --> 3050.78] mind -[3050.78 --> 3051.34] and one -[3051.34 --> 3051.80] voice -[3051.80 --> 3052.26] you may -[3052.26 --> 3053.12] glorify -[3053.12 --> 3053.84] the God -[3053.84 --> 3054.42] and Father -[3054.42 --> 3055.08] of our -[3055.08 --> 3055.46] Lord -[3055.46 --> 3055.90] Jesus -[3055.90 --> 3056.48] Christ -[3056.48 --> 3058.82] accept -[3058.82 --> 3059.54] one another -[3059.54 --> 3060.06] then -[3060.06 --> 3061.04] just as -[3061.04 --> 3061.40] Christ -[3061.40 --> 3061.94] accepted -[3061.94 --> 3062.32] you -[3062.32 --> 3063.00] in order -[3063.00 --> 3063.40] to bring -[3063.40 --> 3063.92] praise -[3063.92 --> 3064.48] to God -[3064.48 --> 3065.80] for I -[3065.80 --> 3066.26] tell you -[3066.26 --> 3066.82] that Christ -[3066.82 --> 3067.44] has become -[3067.44 --> 3067.98] a servant -[3067.98 --> 3068.70] of the Jews -[3068.70 --> 3069.32] on behalf -[3069.32 --> 3069.90] of God's -[3069.90 --> 3070.18] truth -[3070.18 --> 3070.84] so that -[3070.84 --> 3071.42] the promises -[3071.42 --> 3071.96] made -[3071.96 --> 3072.34] to the -[3072.34 --> 3073.10] patriarchs -[3073.10 --> 3073.84] might be -[3073.84 --> 3074.40] confirmed -[3074.40 --> 3075.66] and moreover -[3075.66 --> 3076.24] that the -[3076.24 --> 3076.92] Gentiles -[3076.92 --> 3077.94] might glorify -[3077.94 --> 3078.42] God -[3078.42 --> 3078.88] for his -[3078.88 --> 3079.26] mercy -[3079.26 --> 3080.54] as it -[3080.54 --> 3080.90] is written -[3080.90 --> 3081.92] therefore -[3081.92 --> 3082.50] I will -[3082.50 --> 3083.26] praise you -[3083.26 --> 3083.72] among -[3083.72 --> 3084.52] the Gentiles -[3084.52 --> 3085.14] I will -[3085.14 --> 3085.56] sing the -[3085.56 --> 3085.90] praises -[3085.90 --> 3086.40] of your -[3086.40 --> 3086.70] name -[3086.70 --> 3087.90] again -[3087.90 --> 3088.38] it says -[3088.38 --> 3088.86] rejoice -[3088.86 --> 3089.80] you Gentiles -[3089.80 --> 3090.28] with his -[3090.28 --> 3090.70] people -[3090.70 --> 3091.48] and again -[3091.48 --> 3092.10] praise the -[3092.10 --> 3092.42] Lord -[3092.42 --> 3092.98] all you -[3092.98 --> 3093.52] Gentiles -[3093.52 --> 3093.96] let all -[3093.96 --> 3094.54] the peoples -[3094.54 --> 3095.68] extol him -[3095.68 --> 3096.20] and again -[3096.20 --> 3097.08] Isaiah says -[3097.08 --> 3097.82] the root -[3097.82 --> 3098.38] of Jesse -[3098.38 --> 3099.10] will spring -[3099.10 --> 3099.32] up -[3099.32 --> 3099.94] one who -[3099.94 --> 3100.72] will arise -[3100.72 --> 3101.28] to rule -[3101.28 --> 3101.78] over the -[3101.78 --> 3102.20] nations -[3102.20 --> 3103.12] in him -[3103.12 --> 3104.20] the Gentiles -[3104.20 --> 3104.94] will hope -[3104.94 --> 3107.32] may the -[3107.32 --> 3107.96] God of -[3107.96 --> 3108.38] hope -[3108.38 --> 3109.28] fill you -[3109.28 --> 3109.80] with all -[3109.80 --> 3110.28] joy -[3110.28 --> 3111.02] and peace -[3111.02 --> 3111.46] as you -[3111.46 --> 3111.94] trust -[3111.94 --> 3113.28] in him -[3113.28 --> 3113.88] so that -[3113.88 --> 3114.28] you may -[3114.28 --> 3114.90] overflow -[3114.90 --> 3116.02] with hope -[3116.02 --> 3116.70] by the -[3116.70 --> 3117.14] power -[3117.14 --> 3117.96] of the -[3117.96 --> 3118.32] Holy -[3118.32 --> 3119.02] Spirit -[3119.02 --> 3120.58] this is -[3120.58 --> 3120.86] the word -[3120.86 --> 3121.06] of the -[3121.06 --> 3121.30] Lord -[3121.30 --> 3128.42] and so -[3128.42 --> 3129.02] I hope -[3129.02 --> 3129.60] that it -[3129.60 --> 3130.26] is -[3130.26 --> 3131.16] abundantly -[3131.16 --> 3131.56] clear -[3131.56 --> 3132.28] even on -[3132.28 --> 3132.94] the first -[3132.94 --> 3133.76] reading -[3133.76 --> 3135.52] but this -[3135.52 --> 3136.16] text -[3136.16 --> 3137.74] is about -[3137.74 --> 3138.48] what our -[3138.48 --> 3139.16] unity -[3139.16 --> 3139.92] together -[3139.92 --> 3141.30] looks like -[3141.30 --> 3141.68] and how -[3141.68 --> 3142.16] it is -[3142.16 --> 3143.12] expressed -[3143.12 --> 3144.90] and what I -[3144.90 --> 3145.12] want to -[3145.12 --> 3145.78] suggest to -[3145.78 --> 3146.18] you -[3146.18 --> 3146.80] out of -[3146.80 --> 3147.60] chapter 15 -[3147.60 --> 3148.26] in connection -[3148.26 --> 3148.74] to this -[3148.74 --> 3149.66] larger story -[3149.66 --> 3151.14] that we've -[3151.14 --> 3151.54] been living -[3151.54 --> 3151.92] in -[3151.92 --> 3153.46] that maturity -[3153.46 --> 3154.62] in the -[3154.62 --> 3155.12] gospel -[3155.12 --> 3156.28] builds -[3156.28 --> 3157.14] unity -[3157.14 --> 3158.02] around -[3158.02 --> 3158.76] the gospel -[3158.76 --> 3160.96] that's the -[3160.96 --> 3161.84] big idea -[3161.84 --> 3162.28] or the -[3162.28 --> 3162.90] theme -[3162.90 --> 3163.54] for this -[3163.54 --> 3163.80] morning -[3163.80 --> 3164.32] maturity -[3164.32 --> 3165.18] in the -[3165.18 --> 3165.56] gospel -[3165.56 --> 3166.04] builds -[3166.04 --> 3166.68] unity -[3166.68 --> 3167.80] around -[3167.80 --> 3168.80] the gospel -[3168.80 --> 3170.92] chapters -[3170.92 --> 3171.88] 14 -[3171.88 --> 3172.72] this -[3172.72 --> 3173.16] first -[3173.16 --> 3173.50] part -[3173.50 --> 3173.72] of -[3173.72 --> 3174.08] chapter -[3174.08 --> 3174.62] 15 -[3174.62 --> 3176.26] about -[3176.26 --> 3177.00] what it -[3177.00 --> 3177.78] looks like -[3177.78 --> 3178.60] to -[3178.60 --> 3179.58] mature -[3179.58 --> 3180.64] in the -[3180.64 --> 3181.06] gospel -[3181.06 --> 3182.56] right -[3182.56 --> 3182.94] Paul -[3182.94 --> 3183.54] has been -[3183.54 --> 3184.50] contrasting -[3184.50 --> 3185.22] his language -[3185.22 --> 3185.80] is the -[3185.80 --> 3186.14] weaker -[3186.14 --> 3186.60] brother -[3186.60 --> 3187.26] or sister -[3187.26 --> 3188.42] with the -[3188.42 --> 3189.22] stronger -[3189.22 --> 3189.76] brother -[3189.76 --> 3190.48] or sister -[3190.48 --> 3191.62] and what -[3191.62 --> 3192.14] we've said -[3192.14 --> 3192.62] is what that -[3192.62 --> 3193.32] really means -[3193.32 --> 3194.04] those who -[3194.04 --> 3194.88] are less -[3194.88 --> 3195.42] mature -[3195.42 --> 3196.34] in faith -[3196.34 --> 3196.92] and those -[3196.92 --> 3197.24] who are -[3197.24 --> 3197.66] more -[3197.66 --> 3198.18] mature -[3198.18 --> 3198.94] in the -[3198.94 --> 3199.28] faith -[3199.28 --> 3200.74] and we've -[3200.74 --> 3201.18] defined -[3201.18 --> 3201.60] this -[3201.60 --> 3202.30] maturity -[3202.30 --> 3203.46] as -[3203.46 --> 3204.16] allowing -[3204.16 --> 3205.08] the -[3205.08 --> 3205.78] scope -[3205.78 --> 3206.32] of the -[3206.32 --> 3206.74] gospel -[3206.74 --> 3207.18] to -[3207.18 --> 3208.12] pervade -[3208.12 --> 3208.70] every -[3208.70 --> 3209.32] corner -[3209.32 --> 3209.94] of -[3209.94 --> 3210.74] our -[3210.74 --> 3211.34] hearts -[3211.34 --> 3212.28] and lives -[3212.28 --> 3214.26] that -[3214.26 --> 3214.72] means -[3214.72 --> 3215.10] then -[3215.10 --> 3215.28] that -[3215.28 --> 3215.52] the -[3215.52 --> 3216.18] truths -[3216.18 --> 3216.74] of who -[3216.74 --> 3217.04] God -[3217.04 --> 3217.56] is -[3217.56 --> 3218.08] the -[3218.08 --> 3218.58] truth -[3218.58 --> 3218.88] about -[3218.88 --> 3219.12] what -[3219.12 --> 3219.28] he -[3219.28 --> 3219.46] has -[3219.46 --> 3219.84] done -[3219.84 --> 3220.10] in -[3220.10 --> 3220.54] Christ -[3220.54 --> 3221.00] Jesus -[3221.00 --> 3221.56] and -[3221.56 --> 3221.76] how -[3221.76 --> 3222.04] we -[3222.04 --> 3222.26] have -[3222.26 --> 3222.44] been -[3222.44 --> 3223.26] reconciled -[3223.26 --> 3223.42] to -[3223.42 --> 3223.82] God -[3223.82 --> 3224.22] through -[3224.22 --> 3224.70] Jesus -[3224.70 --> 3225.24] life -[3225.24 --> 3225.86] death -[3225.86 --> 3226.14] and -[3226.14 --> 3226.68] resurrection -[3226.68 --> 3227.68] those -[3227.68 --> 3229.02] realities -[3229.02 --> 3229.62] have -[3229.62 --> 3230.34] changed -[3230.34 --> 3231.06] everything -[3231.06 --> 3231.66] about -[3231.66 --> 3231.90] our -[3231.90 --> 3232.42] perception -[3232.42 --> 3232.88] of -[3232.88 --> 3233.08] and -[3233.08 --> 3233.58] experience -[3233.58 --> 3234.14] of -[3234.14 --> 3235.04] reality -[3235.04 --> 3235.76] in the -[3235.76 --> 3236.08] way that -[3236.08 --> 3236.60] we live -[3236.60 --> 3237.36] and work -[3237.36 --> 3238.16] and worship -[3238.16 --> 3240.18] and in short -[3240.18 --> 3240.90] that the gospel -[3240.90 --> 3242.22] changes everything -[3242.22 --> 3244.26] and we let -[3244.26 --> 3244.82] the gospel -[3244.82 --> 3245.84] change everything -[3245.84 --> 3246.82] about our -[3246.82 --> 3247.40] lives -[3247.40 --> 3247.78] and how we -[3247.78 --> 3248.38] live together -[3248.38 --> 3249.68] that is -[3249.68 --> 3250.02] what it -[3250.02 --> 3250.80] means to -[3250.80 --> 3251.60] mature -[3251.60 --> 3253.92] now the -[3253.92 --> 3254.48] particular -[3254.48 --> 3255.66] locus -[3255.66 --> 3256.14] of the -[3256.14 --> 3256.76] conversation -[3256.76 --> 3257.62] for Paul -[3257.62 --> 3258.24] has been -[3258.24 --> 3258.80] around -[3258.80 --> 3259.64] what he -[3259.64 --> 3260.42] has called -[3260.42 --> 3261.46] disputable -[3261.46 --> 3262.20] matters -[3262.20 --> 3263.36] if your -[3263.36 --> 3263.78] bibles are -[3263.78 --> 3264.16] open -[3264.16 --> 3264.90] you can -[3264.90 --> 3265.32] see in -[3265.32 --> 3267.16] chapter 14 -[3267.16 --> 3268.34] verse 1 -[3268.34 --> 3269.24] this conversation -[3269.24 --> 3270.06] started with -[3270.06 --> 3270.86] Paul writing -[3270.86 --> 3272.06] accept the -[3272.06 --> 3272.72] one whose -[3272.72 --> 3273.34] faith is -[3273.34 --> 3273.72] weak -[3273.72 --> 3274.24] without -[3274.24 --> 3274.98] quarreling -[3274.98 --> 3275.46] over -[3275.46 --> 3276.36] disputable -[3276.36 --> 3277.46] matters -[3277.46 --> 3279.00] so accept -[3279.00 --> 3279.54] the one -[3279.54 --> 3280.54] who is -[3280.54 --> 3281.24] less mature -[3281.24 --> 3281.74] in their -[3281.74 --> 3282.12] faith -[3282.12 --> 3282.52] without -[3282.52 --> 3283.12] quarreling -[3283.12 --> 3283.48] over -[3283.48 --> 3284.48] disputable -[3284.48 --> 3285.20] matters -[3285.20 --> 3285.66] and we've -[3285.66 --> 3285.80] been -[3285.80 --> 3286.56] careful -[3286.56 --> 3287.32] in this -[3287.32 --> 3287.76] time -[3287.76 --> 3288.76] to define -[3288.76 --> 3289.28] those -[3289.28 --> 3290.30] disputable -[3290.30 --> 3290.86] matters -[3290.86 --> 3292.16] as things -[3292.16 --> 3293.00] about which -[3293.00 --> 3293.84] scripture -[3293.84 --> 3294.86] seems to -[3294.86 --> 3295.92] see two -[3295.92 --> 3296.62] ways -[3296.62 --> 3296.98] either -[3296.98 --> 3297.70] explicitly -[3297.70 --> 3299.68] or implicitly -[3299.68 --> 3300.22] through a -[3300.22 --> 3300.98] contrasting -[3300.98 --> 3301.98] of experience -[3301.98 --> 3303.52] the big -[3303.52 --> 3303.88] three -[3303.88 --> 3304.74] in these -[3304.74 --> 3305.18] chapters -[3305.18 --> 3305.70] have been -[3305.70 --> 3306.38] the eating -[3306.38 --> 3306.88] of meat -[3306.88 --> 3307.28] versus -[3307.28 --> 3307.80] vegetables -[3307.80 --> 3308.92] or celebrating -[3308.92 --> 3309.76] holy days -[3309.76 --> 3310.22] or drinking -[3310.22 --> 3310.70] wine -[3310.70 --> 3311.84] others -[3311.84 --> 3312.68] in scripture -[3312.68 --> 3313.40] pop up as -[3313.40 --> 3314.22] meat sacrifice -[3314.22 --> 3314.84] to idols -[3314.84 --> 3315.62] or the -[3315.62 --> 3316.18] conversation -[3316.18 --> 3316.84] about marriage -[3316.84 --> 3317.68] or celibacy -[3317.68 --> 3318.48] even -[3318.48 --> 3319.28] circumcision -[3319.28 --> 3321.36] and in the -[3321.36 --> 3321.96] contrast of -[3321.96 --> 3322.54] experience -[3322.54 --> 3323.14] we've talked -[3323.14 --> 3323.98] about baptism -[3323.98 --> 3324.76] particularly -[3324.76 --> 3325.72] infant baptism -[3325.72 --> 3325.96] versus -[3325.96 --> 3326.32] believers -[3326.32 --> 3326.72] baptism -[3326.72 --> 3328.00] or even -[3328.00 --> 3328.96] the debatable -[3328.96 --> 3329.64] matter of -[3329.64 --> 3330.40] women in -[3330.40 --> 3331.12] church office -[3331.12 --> 3333.32] now of course -[3333.32 --> 3333.78] these aren't -[3333.78 --> 3334.58] any controversial -[3334.58 --> 3335.24] conversations -[3335.24 --> 3335.80] at all -[3335.80 --> 3339.00] but I think -[3339.00 --> 3339.38] you can see -[3339.38 --> 3339.78] why Paul -[3339.78 --> 3340.34] calls them -[3340.34 --> 3341.12] disputable -[3341.12 --> 3342.16] matters -[3342.16 --> 3344.42] and in all -[3344.42 --> 3344.90] of these -[3344.90 --> 3345.56] things -[3345.56 --> 3346.42] there is -[3346.42 --> 3348.22] an experienced -[3348.22 --> 3349.12] movement -[3349.12 --> 3350.70] towards maturity -[3350.70 --> 3351.34] that is -[3351.34 --> 3352.34] an experienced -[3352.34 --> 3352.90] movement -[3352.90 --> 3353.68] towards the -[3353.68 --> 3355.36] increasing scope -[3355.36 --> 3356.18] of the effect -[3356.18 --> 3357.12] of the gospel -[3357.12 --> 3358.16] in our everyday -[3358.16 --> 3358.68] lives -[3358.68 --> 3361.00] as we round -[3361.00 --> 3361.66] out this -[3361.66 --> 3362.18] discussion -[3362.18 --> 3362.92] now in -[3362.92 --> 3363.72] chapter 15 -[3363.72 --> 3364.94] here's what I -[3364.94 --> 3365.26] hope we -[3365.26 --> 3365.66] begin to -[3365.66 --> 3365.98] see -[3365.98 --> 3368.02] that it -[3368.02 --> 3368.50] is in -[3368.50 --> 3369.38] the movement -[3369.38 --> 3370.42] towards -[3370.42 --> 3371.34] maturity -[3371.34 --> 3372.78] around the -[3372.78 --> 3373.30] gospel -[3373.30 --> 3374.58] that unity -[3374.58 --> 3375.50] is built -[3375.50 --> 3378.40] and I want -[3378.40 --> 3378.74] you to hear -[3378.74 --> 3379.16] that really -[3379.16 --> 3379.56] carefully -[3379.56 --> 3379.90] right -[3379.90 --> 3381.64] because unity -[3381.64 --> 3382.94] is not -[3382.94 --> 3384.26] in maturity -[3384.26 --> 3386.52] unity -[3386.52 --> 3387.56] is in -[3387.56 --> 3388.46] maturing -[3388.46 --> 3390.92] right -[3390.92 --> 3391.32] unity -[3391.32 --> 3392.04] isn't in -[3392.04 --> 3392.96] all being -[3392.96 --> 3393.52] at the same -[3393.52 --> 3394.34] spot at the -[3394.34 --> 3394.64] end -[3394.64 --> 3394.94] and all -[3394.94 --> 3395.38] agreeing -[3395.38 --> 3395.84] and being -[3395.84 --> 3396.20] of one -[3396.20 --> 3396.66] mind -[3396.66 --> 3397.44] unity -[3397.44 --> 3398.64] is how -[3398.64 --> 3399.64] we move -[3399.64 --> 3400.20] together -[3400.20 --> 3401.86] to that -[3401.86 --> 3402.30] place -[3402.30 --> 3402.86] how we -[3402.86 --> 3403.48] are grown -[3403.48 --> 3404.04] and how -[3404.04 --> 3405.12] we grow -[3405.12 --> 3406.38] because -[3406.38 --> 3406.94] sometimes -[3406.94 --> 3407.38] right -[3407.38 --> 3408.06] in our -[3408.06 --> 3408.48] world -[3408.48 --> 3409.02] today -[3409.02 --> 3410.88] and in -[3410.88 --> 3411.10] our -[3411.10 --> 3411.56] churches -[3411.56 --> 3412.02] today -[3412.02 --> 3413.12] unity -[3413.12 --> 3414.70] is defined -[3414.70 --> 3415.34] as -[3415.34 --> 3416.06] or is -[3416.06 --> 3416.56] required -[3416.56 --> 3417.52] to have -[3417.52 --> 3418.46] the same -[3418.46 --> 3418.92] opinion -[3418.92 --> 3419.86] on everything -[3419.86 --> 3422.50] instead -[3422.50 --> 3424.00] unity -[3424.00 --> 3425.70] is expressed -[3425.70 --> 3426.46] in the -[3426.46 --> 3427.00] journey -[3427.00 --> 3427.82] of -[3427.82 --> 3428.56] maturity -[3428.56 --> 3429.92] and so -[3429.92 --> 3430.22] of course -[3430.22 --> 3430.66] there's still -[3430.66 --> 3431.24] a goal -[3431.24 --> 3431.70] right -[3431.70 --> 3432.08] there's still -[3432.08 --> 3432.66] a movement -[3432.66 --> 3433.18] towards -[3433.18 --> 3434.94] which we are -[3434.94 --> 3435.48] directing -[3435.48 --> 3436.10] that -[3436.10 --> 3436.48] maturity -[3436.48 --> 3437.86] but how -[3437.86 --> 3438.74] we act -[3438.74 --> 3439.32] on the -[3439.32 --> 3439.76] path -[3439.76 --> 3440.30] of that -[3440.30 --> 3440.92] direction -[3440.92 --> 3441.84] is what -[3441.84 --> 3442.54] determines -[3442.54 --> 3443.06] our -[3443.06 --> 3443.58] unity -[3443.58 --> 3446.18] not the -[3446.18 --> 3446.36] goal -[3446.36 --> 3446.82] itself -[3446.82 --> 3449.50] maturity -[3449.50 --> 3450.72] in the -[3450.72 --> 3451.26] gospel -[3451.26 --> 3452.40] builds -[3452.40 --> 3453.08] unity -[3453.08 --> 3453.98] around -[3453.98 --> 3454.40] the -[3454.40 --> 3454.86] gospel -[3454.86 --> 3455.70] and so -[3455.70 --> 3455.88] then -[3455.88 --> 3456.66] the core -[3456.66 --> 3457.20] of our -[3457.20 --> 3457.60] unity -[3457.60 --> 3458.28] is the -[3458.28 --> 3458.54] gospel -[3458.54 --> 3459.14] of Jesus -[3459.14 --> 3460.00] not the -[3460.00 --> 3460.38] end -[3460.38 --> 3460.96] of our -[3460.96 --> 3461.52] community -[3461.52 --> 3462.06] together -[3462.06 --> 3464.28] I'm suggesting -[3464.94 --> 3469.14] provide for -[3469.14 --> 3469.54] us -[3469.54 --> 3470.76] a road -[3470.76 --> 3471.24] map -[3471.24 --> 3471.62] for -[3471.62 --> 3471.94] what -[3471.94 --> 3472.46] gospel -[3472.46 --> 3473.14] unity -[3473.14 --> 3474.54] looks like -[3474.54 --> 3476.48] as we -[3476.48 --> 3476.92] together -[3476.92 --> 3477.62] pursue -[3477.62 --> 3478.94] maturity -[3478.94 --> 3480.42] in that -[3480.42 --> 3480.84] gospel -[3480.84 --> 3482.58] so in -[3482.58 --> 3482.90] summary -[3482.90 --> 3483.28] what I -[3483.28 --> 3484.48] say -[3484.48 --> 3486.42] we don't -[3486.42 --> 3487.06] all have -[3487.06 --> 3487.68] to be -[3487.68 --> 3488.72] like-minded -[3488.72 --> 3489.76] to be -[3489.76 --> 3490.32] unified -[3490.32 --> 3492.20] we have -[3492.20 --> 3492.74] to build -[3492.74 --> 3493.00] our -[3493.00 --> 3493.46] unity -[3493.46 --> 3494.76] around -[3494.76 --> 3495.34] the -[3495.34 --> 3495.76] gospel -[3495.76 --> 3496.56] and it's -[3496.56 --> 3497.36] transforming -[3497.36 --> 3498.02] our -[3498.02 --> 3498.82] lives -[3498.82 --> 3499.66] unity -[3499.66 --> 3500.62] I'm going -[3500.62 --> 3501.04] to say -[3501.04 --> 3501.96] looks like -[3501.96 --> 3502.62] four -[3502.62 --> 3503.64] things -[3503.64 --> 3506.14] unity -[3506.14 --> 3507.96] a gospel -[3507.96 --> 3508.50] unity -[3508.50 --> 3510.14] bears up -[3510.14 --> 3511.08] the less -[3511.08 --> 3511.64] mature -[3511.64 --> 3513.72] a gospel -[3513.72 --> 3514.20] unity -[3514.20 --> 3515.36] to others -[3515.36 --> 3516.08] first -[3516.08 --> 3517.86] unity -[3517.86 --> 3518.68] grows -[3518.68 --> 3519.36] towards -[3519.36 --> 3519.94] hope -[3519.94 --> 3521.44] and gospel -[3521.44 --> 3521.98] unity -[3521.98 --> 3523.00] glorifies -[3523.00 --> 3524.94] our -[3524.94 --> 3525.16] road -[3525.16 --> 3525.42] map -[3525.42 --> 3526.16] together -[3526.16 --> 3526.80] let's -[3526.80 --> 3527.02] start -[3527.02 --> 3527.38] with this -[3527.38 --> 3528.02] first -[3528.02 --> 3528.34] one -[3528.34 --> 3529.72] gospel -[3529.72 --> 3530.34] unity -[3530.34 --> 3531.06] bears -[3531.06 --> 3531.60] up -[3531.60 --> 3532.02] the -[3532.02 --> 3532.40] less -[3532.40 --> 3533.18] mature -[3533.18 --> 3534.76] we -[3534.76 --> 3537.16] who -[3537.16 --> 3537.36] are -[3537.36 --> 3537.92] strong -[3537.92 --> 3539.12] is it -[3539.12 --> 3539.28] that -[3539.28 --> 3539.58] bad -[3539.58 --> 3543.26] okay -[3543.26 --> 3543.44] we're -[3543.44 --> 3543.74] switching -[3543.74 --> 3545.66] okay -[3545.66 --> 3550.66] good -[3550.66 --> 3552.28] I'm hearing -[3552.28 --> 3552.68] feedback -[3552.68 --> 3553.10] now -[3553.10 --> 3555.56] I'm going -[3555.56 --> 3555.82] to turn -[3555.82 --> 3556.24] off this -[3556.24 --> 3556.56] one -[3556.56 --> 3561.68] okay -[3561.68 --> 3563.62] I'm still -[3563.62 --> 3564.06] hearing a -[3564.06 --> 3564.38] little bit -[3564.38 --> 3565.82] of buzz -[3565.82 --> 3566.42] and echo -[3566.42 --> 3569.04] okay -[3569.04 --> 3570.02] yep -[3570.02 --> 3570.52] it's definitely -[3570.52 --> 3570.82] there -[3570.82 --> 3572.32] turn my -[3572.32 --> 3572.60] gain -[3572.60 --> 3572.96] down -[3572.96 --> 3579.72] here -[3579.72 --> 3581.50] okay -[3581.50 --> 3582.68] here -[3582.68 --> 3583.06] we go -[3583.06 --> 3585.32] thanks for -[3585.32 --> 3585.84] being unified -[3585.84 --> 3586.18] in your -[3586.18 --> 3586.56] patience -[3586.56 --> 3588.94] let's -[3588.94 --> 3589.32] start -[3589.32 --> 3589.86] with -[3589.86 --> 3590.44] the -[3590.44 --> 3590.80] first -[3590.80 --> 3591.46] gospel -[3591.46 --> 3592.06] unity -[3592.06 --> 3593.08] bears -[3593.08 --> 3593.56] up -[3593.56 --> 3593.92] the -[3593.92 --> 3594.30] less -[3594.30 --> 3595.30] mature -[3595.30 --> 3596.42] right -[3596.42 --> 3596.60] Paul -[3596.60 --> 3597.06] starts -[3597.06 --> 3597.64] by saying -[3597.64 --> 3598.00] we who -[3598.00 --> 3598.12] are -[3598.12 --> 3598.46] strong -[3598.46 --> 3598.72] ought -[3598.72 --> 3598.92] to -[3598.92 --> 3599.16] bear -[3599.16 --> 3599.60] with -[3599.60 --> 3599.74] the -[3599.74 --> 3600.14] failings -[3600.14 --> 3600.30] of -[3600.30 --> 3600.44] the -[3600.44 --> 3600.76] weak -[3600.76 --> 3600.98] and -[3600.98 --> 3601.24] not -[3601.24 --> 3601.48] to -[3601.48 --> 3601.92] please -[3601.92 --> 3602.78] ourselves -[3602.78 --> 3604.38] each -[3604.38 --> 3604.96] of -[3604.96 --> 3605.24] us -[3605.24 --> 3605.54] should -[3605.54 --> 3605.94] please -[3605.94 --> 3606.20] our -[3606.20 --> 3606.64] neighbors -[3606.64 --> 3607.40] for -[3607.40 --> 3607.64] their -[3607.64 --> 3608.04] good -[3608.04 --> 3608.36] to -[3608.36 --> 3608.72] build -[3608.72 --> 3609.08] them -[3609.08 --> 3609.66] up -[3609.66 --> 3610.78] right -[3610.78 --> 3610.96] we -[3610.96 --> 3611.38] bear -[3611.38 --> 3611.62] the -[3611.62 --> 3612.34] failings -[3612.34 --> 3613.46] and -[3613.46 --> 3613.64] we -[3613.64 --> 3613.96] build -[3613.96 --> 3614.20] each -[3614.20 --> 3614.52] other -[3614.52 --> 3615.58] up -[3615.58 --> 3617.06] a -[3617.06 --> 3617.46] gospel -[3617.46 --> 3617.98] unity -[3617.98 --> 3619.02] is -[3619.02 --> 3619.64] bearing -[3619.64 --> 3620.26] each -[3620.26 --> 3620.56] other -[3620.56 --> 3620.88] and -[3620.88 --> 3621.26] building -[3621.26 --> 3621.64] each -[3621.64 --> 3621.94] other -[3621.94 --> 3622.58] up -[3622.58 --> 3622.82] that -[3622.82 --> 3623.36] word -[3623.36 --> 3623.92] building -[3623.92 --> 3624.30] each -[3624.30 --> 3624.54] other -[3624.54 --> 3624.86] up -[3624.86 --> 3625.12] has -[3625.12 --> 3625.62] already -[3625.62 --> 3625.92] been -[3625.92 --> 3626.40] used -[3626.40 --> 3626.66] in -[3626.66 --> 3626.92] this -[3626.92 --> 3627.46] section -[3627.46 --> 3627.98] before -[3627.98 --> 3629.74] pastor -[3629.74 --> 3630.10] Kevin -[3630.10 --> 3630.44] read -[3630.44 --> 3630.58] it -[3630.58 --> 3630.90] last -[3630.90 --> 3631.18] week -[3631.18 --> 3631.34] when -[3631.34 --> 3631.48] we -[3631.48 --> 3631.76] looked -[3631.76 --> 3632.42] at -[3632.42 --> 3632.74] chapter -[3632.74 --> 3633.54] 14 -[3633.54 --> 3633.90] verse -[3633.90 --> 3634.42] 19 -[3634.42 --> 3635.40] says -[3635.40 --> 3635.68] what -[3635.68 --> 3636.54] does -[3636.54 --> 3637.04] therefore -[3637.04 --> 3637.74] do -[3637.74 --> 3639.24] I should -[3639.24 --> 3639.58] find it -[3639.58 --> 3639.92] and actually -[3639.92 --> 3640.28] read it -[3640.28 --> 3640.42] hey -[3640.42 --> 3643.20] let us -[3643.20 --> 3643.60] therefore -[3643.60 --> 3643.94] make -[3643.94 --> 3644.34] every -[3644.34 --> 3644.66] effort -[3644.66 --> 3645.08] to do -[3645.08 --> 3645.30] what -[3645.30 --> 3645.60] leads -[3645.60 --> 3645.84] to -[3645.84 --> 3646.24] peace -[3646.24 --> 3646.56] and -[3646.56 --> 3647.30] mutual -[3647.30 --> 3648.50] edification -[3648.50 --> 3650.56] mutual -[3650.56 --> 3651.20] edification -[3651.20 --> 3652.04] is the -[3652.04 --> 3652.38] same -[3652.38 --> 3652.90] word -[3652.90 --> 3653.42] in -[3653.42 --> 3653.82] Greek -[3653.82 --> 3654.20] as -[3654.20 --> 3654.50] build -[3654.50 --> 3654.70] each -[3654.70 --> 3654.90] other -[3654.90 --> 3655.24] up -[3655.24 --> 3656.50] if you -[3656.50 --> 3656.70] don't -[3656.70 --> 3656.98] know -[3656.98 --> 3657.24] the -[3657.24 --> 3657.56] Bible -[3657.56 --> 3657.86] was -[3657.86 --> 3658.14] first -[3658.14 --> 3658.42] written -[3658.42 --> 3658.68] in -[3658.68 --> 3659.10] Greek -[3659.10 --> 3659.96] and -[3659.96 --> 3660.08] so -[3660.08 --> 3660.24] we -[3660.24 --> 3660.44] look -[3660.44 --> 3660.58] to -[3660.58 --> 3660.72] the -[3660.72 --> 3660.96] Greek -[3660.96 --> 3661.16] to -[3661.16 --> 3661.34] see -[3661.34 --> 3661.52] where -[3661.52 --> 3661.68] there -[3661.68 --> 3661.82] are -[3661.82 --> 3662.32] connections -[3662.32 --> 3662.98] this -[3662.98 --> 3663.20] is -[3663.20 --> 3663.44] one -[3663.44 --> 3663.58] of -[3663.58 --> 3663.78] those -[3663.78 --> 3664.42] connections -[3664.42 --> 3665.30] that -[3665.30 --> 3665.78] word -[3665.78 --> 3666.46] edification -[3666.46 --> 3667.56] means -[3667.56 --> 3667.84] to -[3667.84 --> 3668.26] build -[3668.26 --> 3668.58] one -[3668.58 --> 3668.96] another -[3668.96 --> 3669.74] up -[3669.74 --> 3670.72] it -[3670.72 --> 3671.00] comes -[3671.00 --> 3671.18] to -[3671.18 --> 3671.54] English -[3671.54 --> 3671.86] through -[3671.86 --> 3672.06] the -[3672.06 --> 3672.34] Latin -[3672.34 --> 3672.56] for -[3672.56 --> 3672.76] those -[3672.76 --> 3672.86] of -[3672.86 --> 3672.92] you -[3672.92 --> 3673.02] who -[3673.02 --> 3673.14] are -[3673.14 --> 3673.46] interested -[3673.46 --> 3673.68] in -[3673.68 --> 3673.90] this -[3673.90 --> 3674.54] and -[3674.54 --> 3674.74] it's -[3674.74 --> 3675.04] the -[3675.04 --> 3675.34] same -[3675.34 --> 3675.76] root -[3675.76 --> 3676.08] out -[3676.08 --> 3676.18] of -[3676.18 --> 3676.36] which -[3676.36 --> 3676.50] we -[3676.50 --> 3676.66] get -[3676.66 --> 3676.80] the -[3676.80 --> 3677.04] word -[3677.04 --> 3677.58] edifice -[3677.58 --> 3678.68] which -[3678.68 --> 3678.94] means -[3678.94 --> 3679.36] large -[3679.36 --> 3679.86] building -[3679.86 --> 3680.34] or -[3680.34 --> 3680.84] structure -[3680.84 --> 3682.24] and -[3682.24 --> 3682.36] so -[3682.36 --> 3682.54] to -[3682.54 --> 3682.98] build -[3682.98 --> 3683.38] someone -[3683.38 --> 3683.76] up -[3683.76 --> 3684.06] is -[3684.06 --> 3684.34] to -[3684.34 --> 3685.02] edify -[3685.02 --> 3685.40] them -[3685.40 --> 3685.56] or -[3685.56 --> 3685.78] to -[3685.78 --> 3686.36] build -[3686.36 --> 3686.60] them -[3686.60 --> 3686.82] up -[3686.82 --> 3687.00] in -[3687.00 --> 3687.76] strength -[3687.76 --> 3688.16] to -[3688.16 --> 3689.12] undergird -[3689.12 --> 3689.60] them -[3689.60 --> 3690.04] in -[3690.04 --> 3690.54] the -[3690.54 --> 3690.84] faith -[3690.84 --> 3691.00] it -[3691.00 --> 3691.14] is -[3691.14 --> 3691.32] to -[3691.32 --> 3691.70] grow -[3691.70 --> 3692.28] them -[3692.28 --> 3692.98] in -[3692.98 --> 3693.72] faith -[3693.72 --> 3696.32] this -[3696.32 --> 3696.96] is -[3696.96 --> 3697.48] the -[3697.48 --> 3698.12] responsibility -[3698.12 --> 3699.22] of -[3699.22 --> 3699.58] those -[3699.58 --> 3699.82] who -[3699.82 --> 3700.06] are -[3700.06 --> 3700.40] more -[3700.40 --> 3700.88] mature -[3700.88 --> 3701.38] then -[3701.38 --> 3702.40] right -[3702.40 --> 3702.64] is -[3702.64 --> 3702.86] to -[3702.86 --> 3703.30] grow -[3703.30 --> 3704.14] in -[3704.14 --> 3704.40] their -[3704.40 --> 3704.84] faith -[3704.84 --> 3705.20] those -[3705.20 --> 3705.40] who -[3705.40 --> 3705.64] are -[3705.64 --> 3706.26] less -[3706.26 --> 3706.74] mature -[3706.74 --> 3706.96] who -[3706.96 --> 3707.14] are -[3707.14 --> 3707.46] newer -[3707.46 --> 3708.10] to -[3708.10 --> 3708.26] the -[3708.26 --> 3708.54] faith -[3708.54 --> 3708.94] and -[3708.94 --> 3709.40] every -[3709.40 --> 3709.86] single -[3709.86 --> 3710.14] one -[3710.14 --> 3710.28] of -[3710.28 --> 3710.52] us -[3710.52 --> 3711.12] shares -[3711.12 --> 3711.64] this -[3711.64 --> 3712.30] calling -[3712.30 --> 3713.52] every -[3713.52 --> 3713.88] single -[3713.88 --> 3714.12] one -[3714.12 --> 3714.24] of -[3714.24 --> 3714.38] us -[3714.38 --> 3714.58] has -[3714.58 --> 3714.74] the -[3714.74 --> 3715.26] responsibility -[3715.26 --> 3716.12] to -[3716.12 --> 3716.36] be -[3716.36 --> 3716.56] a -[3716.56 --> 3717.04] disciple -[3717.04 --> 3717.40] who -[3717.40 --> 3717.70] is -[3717.70 --> 3718.24] making -[3718.24 --> 3719.12] disciples -[3719.12 --> 3721.38] and -[3721.38 --> 3721.56] whether -[3721.56 --> 3721.86] that's -[3721.86 --> 3722.06] a -[3722.06 --> 3722.28] mother -[3722.28 --> 3722.66] or -[3722.66 --> 3723.10] father -[3723.10 --> 3723.50] to -[3723.50 --> 3723.80] their -[3723.80 --> 3724.28] children -[3724.28 --> 3725.32] whether -[3725.32 --> 3725.72] that's -[3725.72 --> 3726.06] the -[3726.06 --> 3726.36] Sunday -[3726.36 --> 3726.70] school -[3726.70 --> 3727.14] teacher -[3727.14 --> 3728.32] or -[3728.32 --> 3728.58] the -[3728.58 --> 3729.34] youth -[3729.34 --> 3729.78] leader -[3729.78 --> 3730.60] whether -[3730.60 --> 3730.86] that's -[3730.86 --> 3731.02] the -[3731.02 --> 3731.46] catechism -[3731.46 --> 3731.78] teacher -[3731.78 --> 3732.04] who's -[3732.04 --> 3732.16] been -[3732.16 --> 3732.40] doing -[3732.40 --> 3732.58] it -[3732.58 --> 3732.78] for -[3732.78 --> 3733.38] 30 -[3733.38 --> 3733.90] years -[3733.90 --> 3734.12] or -[3734.12 --> 3734.34] for -[3734.34 --> 3734.66] three -[3734.66 --> 3735.22] years -[3735.22 --> 3736.16] right -[3736.16 --> 3737.04] maturing -[3737.04 --> 3737.90] Christians -[3737.90 --> 3738.60] help -[3738.60 --> 3739.32] other -[3739.32 --> 3740.04] Christians -[3740.04 --> 3740.94] mature -[3740.94 --> 3742.48] that's -[3742.48 --> 3742.74] what -[3742.74 --> 3743.24] gospel -[3743.24 --> 3743.74] unity -[3743.74 --> 3744.60] looks -[3744.60 --> 3745.00] like -[3745.00 --> 3746.12] that's -[3746.12 --> 3746.32] what -[3746.32 --> 3746.68] our -[3746.68 --> 3747.28] community -[3747.28 --> 3747.80] together -[3747.80 --> 3748.22] growing -[3748.22 --> 3748.54] in -[3748.54 --> 3748.96] faith -[3748.96 --> 3749.66] looks -[3749.66 --> 3750.08] like -[3750.08 --> 3751.76] right -[3751.76 --> 3752.08] now -[3752.08 --> 3752.44] we've -[3752.44 --> 3752.58] already -[3752.58 --> 3752.78] said -[3752.78 --> 3753.08] we have -[3753.08 --> 3753.44] a bunch -[3753.44 --> 3753.68] of -[3753.68 --> 3753.98] young -[3753.98 --> 3754.30] girls -[3754.30 --> 3754.60] who are -[3754.60 --> 3754.78] at -[3754.78 --> 3755.06] gems -[3755.06 --> 3755.46] camp -[3755.46 --> 3756.26] who've -[3756.26 --> 3756.40] been -[3756.40 --> 3756.60] there -[3756.60 --> 3756.82] all -[3756.82 --> 3757.32] weekend -[3757.32 --> 3758.06] right -[3758.06 --> 3758.30] and who -[3758.30 --> 3758.46] are -[3758.46 --> 3758.98] with -[3758.98 --> 3759.50] a group -[3759.50 --> 3759.86] of -[3759.86 --> 3760.22] other -[3760.22 --> 3760.62] women -[3760.62 --> 3760.92] who -[3760.92 --> 3761.38] have -[3761.38 --> 3761.60] been -[3761.60 --> 3762.12] counseling -[3762.12 --> 3762.48] and -[3762.48 --> 3762.98] volunteering -[3762.98 --> 3763.36] and -[3763.36 --> 3763.74] leading -[3763.74 --> 3764.26] them -[3764.26 --> 3764.86] through -[3764.86 --> 3765.16] this -[3765.16 --> 3765.44] whole -[3765.44 --> 3765.76] year -[3765.76 --> 3766.36] helping -[3766.36 --> 3766.78] them -[3766.78 --> 3767.06] to -[3767.06 --> 3767.58] mature -[3767.58 --> 3768.10] in -[3768.10 --> 3768.64] their -[3768.64 --> 3769.34] faith -[3769.34 --> 3770.08] helping -[3770.08 --> 3770.46] those -[3770.46 --> 3770.60] who -[3770.60 --> 3770.74] are -[3770.74 --> 3771.02] less -[3771.02 --> 3771.44] mature -[3771.44 --> 3771.70] to -[3771.70 --> 3771.98] grow -[3771.98 --> 3772.38] into -[3772.38 --> 3773.22] maturity -[3773.22 --> 3773.68] in a -[3773.68 --> 3773.86] couple -[3773.86 --> 3774.22] weeks -[3774.22 --> 3774.42] the -[3774.42 --> 3774.84] cadets -[3774.84 --> 3775.04] are -[3775.04 --> 3775.16] going -[3775.16 --> 3775.24] to -[3775.24 --> 3775.34] do -[3775.34 --> 3775.52] the -[3775.52 --> 3775.94] same -[3775.94 --> 3776.40] at -[3776.40 --> 3776.60] their -[3776.60 --> 3776.92] camp -[3776.92 --> 3777.08] and -[3777.08 --> 3777.24] the -[3777.24 --> 3777.62] youth -[3777.62 --> 3777.80] are -[3777.80 --> 3777.92] going -[3777.92 --> 3777.98] to -[3777.98 --> 3778.16] have -[3778.16 --> 3778.40] their -[3778.40 --> 3778.76] camp -[3778.76 --> 3779.16] and -[3779.16 --> 3779.26] do -[3779.26 --> 3779.44] the -[3779.44 --> 3779.78] same -[3779.78 --> 3780.94] right -[3780.94 --> 3781.38] when -[3781.38 --> 3781.62] we -[3781.62 --> 3782.34] baptize -[3782.34 --> 3783.04] people -[3783.04 --> 3783.28] whether -[3783.28 --> 3783.62] we do -[3783.62 --> 3783.82] so -[3783.82 --> 3784.02] as -[3784.02 --> 3784.48] infants -[3784.48 --> 3784.84] or -[3784.84 --> 3785.20] as -[3785.20 --> 3786.04] believers -[3786.04 --> 3786.34] as -[3786.34 --> 3787.14] adults -[3787.14 --> 3787.74] converting -[3787.74 --> 3788.04] to -[3788.04 --> 3788.30] faith -[3788.30 --> 3788.56] we -[3788.56 --> 3789.04] promise -[3789.04 --> 3789.38] we -[3789.38 --> 3790.32] covenant -[3790.32 --> 3791.00] together -[3791.00 --> 3791.60] that -[3791.60 --> 3791.78] we -[3791.78 --> 3792.36] will help -[3792.36 --> 3792.78] them -[3792.78 --> 3793.28] grow -[3793.28 --> 3793.76] in -[3793.76 --> 3794.06] their -[3794.06 --> 3794.68] faith -[3794.68 --> 3794.94] to -[3794.94 --> 3795.38] raise -[3795.38 --> 3795.68] them -[3795.68 --> 3796.00] up -[3796.00 --> 3796.48] in -[3796.48 --> 3796.60] the -[3796.60 --> 3796.88] Lord -[3796.88 --> 3797.24] and -[3797.24 --> 3797.36] now -[3797.36 --> 3797.52] in -[3797.52 --> 3797.64] the -[3797.64 --> 3797.92] case -[3797.92 --> 3798.20] of -[3798.20 --> 3798.74] infants -[3798.74 --> 3799.24] that -[3799.24 --> 3799.68] maybe -[3799.68 --> 3800.10] looks -[3800.10 --> 3800.48] a little -[3800.48 --> 3800.70] bit -[3800.70 --> 3800.92] more -[3800.92 --> 3801.38] obvious -[3801.38 --> 3801.72] as -[3801.72 --> 3801.92] they -[3801.92 --> 3802.58] physically -[3802.58 --> 3803.10] grow -[3803.10 --> 3803.42] up -[3803.42 --> 3803.68] in -[3803.68 --> 3803.98] our -[3803.98 --> 3804.46] midst -[3804.46 --> 3805.46] but -[3805.46 --> 3805.58] it -[3805.58 --> 3805.90] also -[3805.90 --> 3806.48] shouldn't -[3806.48 --> 3806.74] look -[3806.74 --> 3807.14] less -[3807.14 --> 3807.58] obvious -[3807.58 --> 3808.26] in -[3808.26 --> 3808.40] the -[3808.40 --> 3808.66] lives -[3808.66 --> 3808.80] of -[3808.80 --> 3809.22] adults -[3809.22 --> 3810.28] right -[3810.28 --> 3810.42] we -[3810.42 --> 3810.62] should -[3810.62 --> 3811.00] see -[3811.00 --> 3811.30] that -[3811.30 --> 3811.78] growing -[3811.78 --> 3812.24] taking -[3812.24 --> 3812.74] place -[3812.74 --> 3813.38] even -[3813.38 --> 3813.84] if -[3813.84 --> 3814.08] you're -[3814.08 --> 3814.58] 96 -[3814.58 --> 3815.04] years -[3815.04 --> 3815.44] old -[3815.44 --> 3815.86] you -[3815.86 --> 3816.10] should -[3816.10 --> 3816.46] see -[3816.46 --> 3816.74] that -[3816.74 --> 3817.16] growing -[3817.16 --> 3817.82] happening -[3817.82 --> 3818.40] in -[3818.40 --> 3818.64] you -[3818.64 --> 3818.88] and -[3818.88 --> 3819.14] through -[3819.14 --> 3819.32] you -[3819.32 --> 3819.48] and -[3819.48 --> 3819.74] be -[3819.74 --> 3820.16] part -[3820.16 --> 3820.46] of -[3823.28 --> 3823.60] others -[3823.60 --> 3825.16] it -[3825.16 --> 3825.28] is -[3825.28 --> 3825.44] a -[3825.44 --> 3825.86] beautiful -[3825.86 --> 3826.42] joy -[3826.42 --> 3826.74] of -[3826.74 --> 3827.34] my -[3827.34 --> 3827.74] position -[3827.74 --> 3827.96] as -[3827.96 --> 3828.36] pastor -[3828.36 --> 3828.62] to -[3828.62 --> 3829.08] see -[3829.08 --> 3829.72] more -[3829.72 --> 3830.20] mature -[3830.20 --> 3830.90] Christians -[3830.90 --> 3831.94] discipling -[3831.94 --> 3832.42] others -[3832.42 --> 3833.10] in -[3833.10 --> 3833.32] their -[3833.32 --> 3833.68] faith -[3833.68 --> 3833.84] and -[3833.84 --> 3834.04] into -[3834.04 --> 3834.20] a -[3834.20 --> 3834.44] greater -[3834.44 --> 3835.12] experience -[3835.12 --> 3835.60] of -[3835.60 --> 3835.76] the -[3835.76 --> 3836.16] gospel -[3836.16 --> 3838.00] this -[3838.00 --> 3838.64] is -[3838.64 --> 3839.02] how -[3839.02 --> 3839.30] the -[3839.30 --> 3839.64] church -[3839.64 --> 3840.62] grows -[3840.62 --> 3842.64] gospel -[3842.64 --> 3843.14] unity -[3843.14 --> 3843.70] grows -[3843.70 --> 3843.94] the -[3843.94 --> 3844.30] church -[3844.30 --> 3844.66] because -[3844.66 --> 3844.98] we're -[3844.98 --> 3845.88] discipling -[3845.88 --> 3846.32] one -[3846.32 --> 3846.54] another -[3846.54 --> 3846.86] we're -[3846.86 --> 3847.58] building -[3847.58 --> 3848.12] one -[3848.12 --> 3848.48] another -[3848.48 --> 3849.16] up -[3849.16 --> 3849.40] we -[3849.40 --> 3849.64] are -[3849.64 --> 3850.26] bearing -[3850.26 --> 3850.74] the -[3850.74 --> 3851.36] less -[3851.36 --> 3852.04] mature -[3852.04 --> 3853.22] and -[3853.22 --> 3853.40] this -[3853.40 --> 3853.68] kind -[3853.68 --> 3853.82] of -[3853.82 --> 3854.74] discipleship -[3854.74 --> 3855.22] is -[3855.22 --> 3855.88] compelling -[3855.88 --> 3857.66] there's -[3857.66 --> 3857.82] a -[3857.82 --> 3858.18] beauty -[3858.18 --> 3858.46] of -[3858.46 --> 3858.82] seeing -[3858.82 --> 3859.26] someone -[3859.26 --> 3859.54] who -[3859.54 --> 3860.02] is -[3860.02 --> 3860.46] more -[3860.46 --> 3861.00] mature -[3861.00 --> 3862.20] coaching -[3862.20 --> 3862.62] or -[3862.62 --> 3863.10] mentoring -[3863.10 --> 3863.64] someone -[3863.64 --> 3864.36] in -[3864.36 --> 3864.54] the -[3864.54 --> 3864.86] faith -[3864.86 --> 3865.82] encouraging -[3865.82 --> 3866.38] someone -[3866.38 --> 3867.14] who's -[3867.14 --> 3867.46] less -[3867.46 --> 3867.88] mature -[3867.88 --> 3868.20] who's -[3868.20 --> 3868.70] maybe -[3868.70 --> 3869.14] younger -[3869.14 --> 3869.34] but -[3869.34 --> 3869.54] not -[3869.54 --> 3870.12] necessarily -[3870.12 --> 3871.54] I -[3871.54 --> 3871.90] remember -[3871.90 --> 3872.22] one -[3872.22 --> 3872.48] time -[3872.48 --> 3873.86] seeing -[3873.86 --> 3874.96] this -[3874.96 --> 3875.48] older -[3875.48 --> 3875.90] gentleman -[3875.90 --> 3876.76] in -[3876.76 --> 3877.60] McDonald's -[3877.60 --> 3877.76] with -[3877.76 --> 3877.94] his -[3877.94 --> 3878.28] Bible -[3878.28 --> 3878.78] open -[3878.78 --> 3879.90] and I -[3879.90 --> 3880.04] thought -[3880.04 --> 3880.18] oh -[3880.18 --> 3880.40] that's -[3880.40 --> 3880.84] beautiful -[3880.84 --> 3881.50] here's -[3881.50 --> 3881.80] a man -[3881.80 --> 3882.20] studying -[3882.20 --> 3882.38] the -[3882.38 --> 3882.68] Bible -[3882.68 --> 3883.08] while -[3883.08 --> 3883.32] he's -[3883.32 --> 3883.58] eating -[3883.58 --> 3884.00] his -[3884.00 --> 3884.46] lunch -[3884.46 --> 3885.40] and -[3885.40 --> 3885.58] then -[3885.58 --> 3885.86] in -[3885.86 --> 3886.06] about -[3886.06 --> 3886.38] four -[3886.38 --> 3886.80] minutes -[3886.80 --> 3887.38] a -[3887.38 --> 3887.60] young -[3887.60 --> 3888.00] person -[3888.00 --> 3888.34] walked -[3888.34 --> 3888.50] in -[3888.50 --> 3888.80] could have -[3888.80 --> 3889.02] like -[3889.02 --> 3889.70] 23 -[3889.70 --> 3890.24] 24 -[3890.24 --> 3890.84] years -[3890.84 --> 3891.16] old -[3891.16 --> 3891.78] sat -[3891.78 --> 3892.00] down -[3892.00 --> 3892.36] across -[3892.36 --> 3892.56] from -[3892.56 --> 3892.76] him -[3892.76 --> 3893.20] pulled -[3893.20 --> 3893.36] out -[3893.36 --> 3893.60] his -[3893.60 --> 3893.94] Bible -[3893.94 --> 3894.08] and -[3894.08 --> 3894.18] they -[3894.18 --> 3894.28] did -[3894.28 --> 3894.40] a -[3894.40 --> 3894.66] Bible -[3894.66 --> 3895.02] study -[3895.02 --> 3895.68] right -[3895.68 --> 3896.00] there -[3896.00 --> 3896.36] in -[3896.36 --> 3897.40] McDonald's -[3897.40 --> 3897.54] it -[3897.54 --> 3897.64] was -[3897.64 --> 3898.16] amazing -[3898.16 --> 3899.36] that -[3899.36 --> 3899.92] is -[3899.92 --> 3900.20] the -[3900.20 --> 3900.66] church -[3900.66 --> 3901.80] maturing -[3901.80 --> 3902.50] one -[3902.50 --> 3902.90] another -[3902.90 --> 3903.84] towards -[3903.84 --> 3904.70] faith -[3904.70 --> 3906.76] now -[3906.76 --> 3906.96] it's -[3906.96 --> 3907.22] important -[3907.22 --> 3907.46] to -[3907.46 --> 3907.94] realize -[3907.94 --> 3908.38] right -[3908.38 --> 3908.78] that -[3908.78 --> 3909.42] in -[3909.42 --> 3909.76] this -[3909.76 --> 3910.58] relationship -[3910.58 --> 3911.76] of discipleship -[3911.76 --> 3912.08] and of -[3912.08 --> 3912.64] maturing -[3912.64 --> 3912.94] of -[3912.94 --> 3914.02] bearing -[3914.02 --> 3914.46] up -[3914.46 --> 3914.66] the -[3914.66 --> 3914.90] less -[3914.90 --> 3915.32] mature -[3915.32 --> 3915.58] there -[3915.58 --> 3916.00] has -[3916.00 --> 3916.62] to be -[3916.62 --> 3916.90] a -[3916.90 --> 3917.22] measure -[3917.22 --> 3917.50] of -[3917.50 --> 3918.00] grace -[3918.00 --> 3918.58] to -[3918.58 --> 3918.92] that -[3918.92 --> 3920.14] notice -[3920.14 --> 3920.50] Paul -[3920.50 --> 3920.86] says -[3920.86 --> 3921.84] that -[3921.84 --> 3922.38] we -[3922.38 --> 3922.78] who are -[3922.78 --> 3923.20] strong -[3923.20 --> 3923.70] ought to -[3923.70 --> 3923.90] bear -[3923.90 --> 3924.26] with -[3924.26 --> 3924.92] the -[3924.92 --> 3925.62] failings -[3925.62 --> 3926.70] of the -[3926.70 --> 3926.98] weak -[3926.98 --> 3929.46] right -[3929.46 --> 3930.00] there's going -[3930.00 --> 3930.38] to be -[3930.38 --> 3930.80] failure -[3930.80 --> 3932.36] there's going -[3932.36 --> 3932.62] to be -[3932.62 --> 3933.36] backsliding -[3933.36 --> 3933.98] there's going -[3933.98 --> 3934.22] to be -[3934.22 --> 3935.06] disobediences -[3935.06 --> 3935.54] and -[3935.54 --> 3935.78] your -[3935.78 --> 3936.28] call -[3936.28 --> 3936.60] as -[3936.60 --> 3936.80] the -[3936.80 --> 3937.08] more -[3937.08 --> 3937.52] mature -[3937.52 --> 3938.12] in -[3938.12 --> 3938.26] the -[3938.26 --> 3938.78] relationship -[3938.78 --> 3939.12] is -[3939.12 --> 3939.30] to -[3939.30 --> 3939.66] bear -[3939.66 --> 3939.92] them -[3939.92 --> 3940.16] up -[3940.16 --> 3940.34] is -[3940.34 --> 3940.50] to -[3940.50 --> 3940.94] build -[3940.94 --> 3941.18] them -[3941.18 --> 3941.40] up -[3941.40 --> 3941.60] and -[3941.60 --> 3942.04] endure -[3942.04 --> 3942.40] with -[3942.40 --> 3942.60] them -[3942.60 --> 3943.06] be -[3943.06 --> 3943.58] gracious -[3943.58 --> 3944.20] and -[3944.20 --> 3944.72] patient -[3944.72 --> 3945.54] trusting -[3945.54 --> 3945.92] that -[3945.92 --> 3946.04] it -[3946.04 --> 3946.16] is -[3946.16 --> 3946.32] the -[3946.32 --> 3946.58] Holy -[3946.58 --> 3946.98] Spirit -[3946.98 --> 3947.24] at -[3947.24 --> 3947.54] work -[3947.54 --> 3947.70] and -[3947.70 --> 3947.82] that -[3947.82 --> 3947.92] it -[3947.92 --> 3948.06] is -[3948.06 --> 3948.42] God -[3948.42 --> 3948.82] who -[3948.82 --> 3949.08] gives -[3949.08 --> 3949.24] the -[3949.24 --> 3949.60] growth -[3949.60 --> 3951.28] gospel -[3951.28 --> 3951.88] unity -[3951.88 --> 3952.90] bears -[3952.90 --> 3953.34] up -[3953.34 --> 3953.62] the -[3953.62 --> 3953.98] less -[3953.98 --> 3954.64] mature -[3954.64 --> 3958.26] now -[3958.26 --> 3958.38] the -[3958.38 --> 3958.56] second -[3958.56 --> 3958.94] thing -[3958.94 --> 3959.92] that -[3959.92 --> 3960.04] we -[3960.04 --> 3960.32] see -[3960.32 --> 3960.48] in -[3960.48 --> 3960.68] this -[3960.68 --> 3961.10] text -[3961.10 --> 3962.64] is -[3962.64 --> 3962.82] that -[3962.82 --> 3963.32] gospel -[3963.32 --> 3963.94] unity -[3963.94 --> 3965.16] looks -[3965.16 --> 3965.62] to -[3965.62 --> 3966.20] others -[3966.20 --> 3967.28] first -[3967.28 --> 3968.80] this -[3968.80 --> 3968.92] is -[3968.92 --> 3969.16] also -[3969.16 --> 3969.54] from -[3969.54 --> 3969.88] verse -[3969.88 --> 3970.20] two -[3970.20 --> 3971.30] each -[3971.30 --> 3971.46] of -[3971.46 --> 3971.70] us -[3971.70 --> 3972.26] should -[3972.26 --> 3972.72] please -[3972.72 --> 3973.02] our -[3973.02 --> 3973.46] neighbors -[3973.46 --> 3974.18] for -[3974.18 --> 3974.78] their -[3974.78 --> 3975.64] good -[3975.64 --> 3977.22] now -[3977.22 --> 3977.34] the -[3977.34 --> 3977.54] first -[3977.54 --> 3977.68] thing -[3977.68 --> 3977.82] to -[3977.82 --> 3978.00] note -[3978.00 --> 3978.18] here -[3978.18 --> 3978.32] is -[3978.32 --> 3978.46] that -[3978.46 --> 3978.82] this -[3978.82 --> 3979.20] isn't -[3979.20 --> 3979.56] only -[3979.56 --> 3980.00] about -[3980.00 --> 3980.80] relationships -[3980.80 --> 3981.30] kind -[3981.30 --> 3981.40] of -[3981.40 --> 3981.74] within -[3981.74 --> 3981.98] the -[3981.98 --> 3982.38] gospel -[3982.38 --> 3982.68] or -[3982.68 --> 3983.20] within -[3983.20 --> 3983.44] the -[3983.44 --> 3983.74] church -[3983.74 --> 3983.92] that -[3983.92 --> 3984.06] is -[3984.06 --> 3984.20] with -[3984.20 --> 3984.78] people -[3984.78 --> 3984.98] who -[3984.98 --> 3985.14] are -[3985.14 --> 3985.60] Christian -[3985.60 --> 3986.66] right -[3986.66 --> 3986.88] whenever -[3986.88 --> 3987.14] the -[3987.14 --> 3987.42] Bible -[3987.42 --> 3987.94] refers -[3987.94 --> 3988.20] to -[3988.20 --> 3988.70] neighbors -[3988.70 --> 3989.92] it -[3989.92 --> 3990.46] most -[3990.46 --> 3991.06] often -[3991.06 --> 3991.30] and -[3991.30 --> 3991.78] especially -[3991.78 --> 3992.06] in -[3992.06 --> 3992.16] the -[3992.16 --> 3992.36] words -[3992.36 --> 3992.50] of -[3992.50 --> 3992.72] Jesus -[3992.72 --> 3993.20] himself -[3993.20 --> 3994.06] includes -[3994.06 --> 3994.90] more -[3994.90 --> 3995.30] than -[3995.30 --> 3995.68] people -[3995.68 --> 3995.86] who -[3995.86 --> 3996.20] believe -[3996.20 --> 3996.38] the -[3996.38 --> 3996.56] same -[3996.56 --> 3996.70] as -[3996.70 --> 3996.92] you -[3996.92 --> 3998.08] right -[3998.08 --> 3998.50] famously -[3998.50 --> 3998.88] Jesus -[3998.88 --> 3999.18] tells -[3999.18 --> 3999.36] the -[3999.36 --> 3999.74] story -[3999.74 --> 4000.20] of -[4000.20 --> 4000.32] the -[4000.32 --> 4000.52] good -[4000.52 --> 4001.18] Samaritan -[4001.18 --> 4001.64] who -[4001.64 --> 4001.92] are -[4001.92 --> 4002.10] the -[4002.10 --> 4002.84] historic -[4002.84 --> 4003.44] religious -[4003.44 --> 4003.86] and -[4003.86 --> 4005.18] ethnic -[4005.18 --> 4005.68] enemy -[4005.68 --> 4006.02] of -[4006.02 --> 4006.20] the -[4006.20 --> 4006.50] Jews -[4006.50 --> 4006.70] of -[4006.70 --> 4007.20] Judea -[4007.20 --> 4007.66] and -[4007.66 --> 4007.82] he -[4007.82 --> 4008.30] asks -[4008.30 --> 4008.64] who -[4008.64 --> 4009.10] acted -[4009.10 --> 4009.76] neighborly -[4009.76 --> 4010.46] and -[4010.46 --> 4010.54] the -[4010.54 --> 4010.74] answer -[4010.74 --> 4010.88] is -[4010.88 --> 4011.00] the -[4011.00 --> 4011.52] Samaritan -[4011.52 --> 4012.42] the -[4012.42 --> 4012.66] point -[4012.66 --> 4012.90] here -[4012.90 --> 4013.12] right -[4013.12 --> 4013.24] is -[4013.24 --> 4013.38] that -[4013.38 --> 4013.80] not -[4013.80 --> 4014.18] only -[4014.18 --> 4014.48] does -[4014.48 --> 4014.70] the -[4014.70 --> 4015.12] gospel -[4015.12 --> 4015.70] change -[4015.70 --> 4015.90] your -[4015.90 --> 4016.46] relationships -[4016.46 --> 4016.76] with -[4016.76 --> 4016.96] other -[4016.96 --> 4017.26] people -[4017.26 --> 4017.40] who -[4017.40 --> 4017.80] believe -[4021.06 --> 4021.20] it -[4021.20 --> 4021.66] changes -[4021.66 --> 4022.08] your -[4022.08 --> 4022.84] relationships -[4022.84 --> 4023.54] with -[4023.54 --> 4024.14] people -[4024.14 --> 4024.74] who -[4024.74 --> 4025.60] don't -[4025.60 --> 4026.40] yet -[4026.40 --> 4027.40] believe -[4027.40 --> 4028.78] changes -[4028.78 --> 4029.00] your -[4029.00 --> 4029.54] relationships -[4029.54 --> 4030.26] in the -[4030.26 --> 4030.44] world -[4030.44 --> 4030.78] around -[4030.78 --> 4031.08] you -[4031.08 --> 4031.84] right -[4031.84 --> 4032.14] people -[4032.14 --> 4032.36] who -[4032.36 --> 4032.50] are -[4032.50 --> 4032.96] united -[4032.96 --> 4033.28] in -[4033.28 --> 4033.44] the -[4033.44 --> 4033.82] gospel -[4033.82 --> 4034.26] show -[4034.26 --> 4034.60] that -[4034.60 --> 4035.00] unity -[4035.00 --> 4035.40] as -[4035.40 --> 4035.60] we -[4035.60 --> 4036.16] live -[4036.16 --> 4036.76] for -[4036.76 --> 4037.36] those -[4037.36 --> 4037.82] who -[4037.82 --> 4038.02] are -[4038.02 --> 4038.34] as -[4038.34 --> 4038.66] yet -[4038.66 --> 4039.24] outside -[4039.24 --> 4039.74] the -[4039.74 --> 4040.08] reach -[4040.08 --> 4040.46] of -[4040.46 --> 4040.58] the -[4040.58 --> 4040.96] gospel -[4040.96 --> 4042.36] now -[4042.36 --> 4042.62] part -[4042.62 --> 4042.72] of -[4042.72 --> 4042.84] what -[4042.84 --> 4043.04] that -[4043.04 --> 4043.44] means -[4043.44 --> 4044.54] Paul -[4044.54 --> 4044.92] says -[4044.92 --> 4045.08] is -[4045.08 --> 4045.24] that -[4045.24 --> 4045.38] we -[4045.38 --> 4046.22] please -[4046.22 --> 4046.90] them -[4046.90 --> 4048.20] that -[4048.20 --> 4048.34] is -[4048.34 --> 4048.74] we -[4048.74 --> 4049.22] want -[4049.22 --> 4049.74] their -[4049.74 --> 4050.44] good -[4050.44 --> 4051.12] we -[4051.12 --> 4051.64] long -[4051.64 --> 4051.96] for -[4051.96 --> 4052.26] their -[4052.26 --> 4053.14] joy -[4053.14 --> 4053.60] and -[4053.60 --> 4053.76] the -[4053.76 --> 4054.04] reason -[4054.04 --> 4054.26] we -[4054.26 --> 4054.50] do -[4054.50 --> 4054.74] that -[4054.74 --> 4054.90] is -[4054.90 --> 4055.08] not -[4055.08 --> 4055.36] because -[4055.36 --> 4055.52] of -[4055.52 --> 4055.96] ulterior -[4055.96 --> 4056.46] motives -[4056.46 --> 4056.70] it's -[4056.70 --> 4056.84] not -[4056.84 --> 4057.12] because -[4057.12 --> 4057.32] we're -[4057.32 --> 4057.66] secretly -[4057.66 --> 4057.98] trying -[4057.98 --> 4058.10] to -[4058.10 --> 4058.22] get -[4058.22 --> 4058.36] them -[4058.36 --> 4058.48] to -[4058.48 --> 4058.62] come -[4058.62 --> 4058.78] to -[4058.78 --> 4059.06] church -[4059.06 --> 4059.54] on -[4059.54 --> 4059.86] Sunday -[4059.86 --> 4060.14] and -[4060.14 --> 4060.78] donate -[4060.78 --> 4061.02] to -[4061.02 --> 4061.50] Newground -[4061.50 --> 4061.84] because -[4061.84 --> 4062.18] Newground -[4062.18 --> 4062.38] is -[4062.38 --> 4062.76] awesome -[4062.76 --> 4063.30] although -[4063.30 --> 4063.74] all of -[4063.74 --> 4063.88] that -[4063.88 --> 4064.04] is -[4064.04 --> 4064.30] kind -[4064.30 --> 4064.42] of -[4064.42 --> 4064.74] true -[4064.74 --> 4065.56] right -[4065.56 --> 4065.70] we -[4065.70 --> 4065.92] do -[4065.92 --> 4066.18] want -[4066.18 --> 4066.34] them -[4066.34 --> 4066.58] here -[4066.58 --> 4066.76] we -[4066.76 --> 4066.94] do -[4066.94 --> 4067.14] want -[4067.14 --> 4067.26] them -[4067.26 --> 4067.38] to -[4067.38 --> 4067.66] support -[4067.66 --> 4067.86] these -[4067.86 --> 4068.24] amazing -[4068.24 --> 4068.72] ministries -[4068.72 --> 4069.34] but -[4069.34 --> 4069.64] that's -[4069.64 --> 4069.84] not -[4069.84 --> 4070.04] the -[4070.04 --> 4070.54] reason -[4070.54 --> 4071.26] the -[4071.26 --> 4071.58] reason -[4071.58 --> 4071.92] is -[4071.92 --> 4072.40] simply -[4072.40 --> 4073.06] because -[4073.06 --> 4073.40] it -[4073.40 --> 4073.88] is -[4073.88 --> 4074.48] their -[4074.48 --> 4075.22] good -[4075.22 --> 4076.24] that -[4076.24 --> 4076.36] we -[4076.36 --> 4076.50] are -[4076.50 --> 4076.90] pursuing -[4076.90 --> 4079.16] but -[4079.16 --> 4079.34] here's -[4079.34 --> 4079.56] the thing -[4079.56 --> 4079.74] about -[4079.74 --> 4079.94] that -[4079.94 --> 4080.14] right -[4080.14 --> 4081.68] and -[4081.68 --> 4081.76] if -[4081.76 --> 4081.86] you -[4081.86 --> 4081.94] are -[4081.94 --> 4082.06] a -[4082.06 --> 4082.30] parent -[4082.30 --> 4082.50] of -[4082.50 --> 4083.16] a -[4083.16 --> 4083.72] young -[4083.72 --> 4084.10] child -[4084.10 --> 4084.30] or -[4084.30 --> 4084.82] a -[4084.82 --> 4085.08] teenage -[4085.08 --> 4085.54] child -[4085.54 --> 4085.68] or -[4085.68 --> 4085.84] maybe -[4085.84 --> 4086.04] this -[4086.04 --> 4086.16] is -[4086.16 --> 4086.40] true -[4086.40 --> 4086.70] of -[4086.70 --> 4087.08] parents -[4087.08 --> 4087.34] and -[4087.34 --> 4087.58] children -[4087.58 --> 4087.82] of -[4087.82 --> 4088.06] all -[4088.06 --> 4088.42] ages -[4088.42 --> 4088.94] you -[4088.94 --> 4089.14] know -[4089.14 --> 4089.36] this -[4089.36 --> 4089.54] is -[4089.54 --> 4089.94] true -[4089.94 --> 4090.40] right -[4090.40 --> 4091.20] sometimes -[4091.20 --> 4092.26] maturity -[4092.26 --> 4092.98] is -[4092.98 --> 4093.40] knowing -[4093.40 --> 4093.78] that -[4093.78 --> 4093.98] the -[4093.98 --> 4094.52] hard -[4094.52 --> 4095.02] thing -[4095.02 --> 4095.60] is -[4095.60 --> 4095.88] for -[4095.88 --> 4096.12] your -[4096.12 --> 4096.60] good -[4096.60 --> 4097.02] rather -[4097.02 --> 4097.40] than -[4097.40 --> 4097.60] the -[4097.60 --> 4098.38] expedient -[4098.38 --> 4098.82] thing -[4098.82 --> 4100.76] right -[4100.76 --> 4100.88] have -[4100.88 --> 4100.98] you -[4100.98 --> 4101.20] ever -[4101.20 --> 4101.44] heard -[4101.44 --> 4101.60] your -[4101.60 --> 4101.94] parents -[4101.94 --> 4102.38] say -[4102.38 --> 4103.16] this -[4103.16 --> 4103.36] is -[4103.36 --> 4103.52] for -[4103.52 --> 4103.72] your -[4103.72 --> 4103.92] own -[4103.92 --> 4104.22] good -[4104.22 --> 4105.26] and -[4105.26 --> 4105.38] then -[4105.38 --> 4105.52] they -[4105.52 --> 4105.74] take -[4105.74 --> 4106.00] away -[4106.00 --> 4106.18] your -[4106.18 --> 4106.52] Nintendo -[4106.52 --> 4106.94] Switch -[4106.94 --> 4107.18] or -[4107.18 --> 4107.44] something -[4107.44 --> 4107.68] like -[4107.68 --> 4107.94] that -[4107.94 --> 4109.60] now -[4109.60 --> 4109.70] in -[4109.70 --> 4109.84] that -[4109.84 --> 4110.06] case -[4110.06 --> 4110.28] maybe -[4110.28 --> 4110.46] they -[4110.46 --> 4110.64] mean -[4110.64 --> 4110.78] it's -[4110.78 --> 4110.94] for -[4110.94 --> 4111.18] my -[4111.18 --> 4111.44] good -[4111.44 --> 4111.72] because -[4111.72 --> 4111.90] it'll -[4111.90 --> 4112.04] get -[4112.04 --> 4112.36] quieter -[4112.36 --> 4112.54] in -[4112.54 --> 4112.62] the -[4112.62 --> 4112.84] house -[4112.84 --> 4113.08] but -[4113.08 --> 4115.14] it -[4115.14 --> 4115.44] takes -[4115.44 --> 4115.98] maturity -[4115.98 --> 4116.98] to -[4116.98 --> 4117.50] see -[4117.50 --> 4117.84] that -[4117.84 --> 4118.80] discipline -[4118.80 --> 4119.46] and -[4119.46 --> 4120.12] correction -[4120.12 --> 4120.66] are -[4120.66 --> 4121.22] also -[4121.22 --> 4121.86] for -[4121.86 --> 4122.66] good -[4122.66 --> 4124.68] now -[4124.68 --> 4124.84] in -[4124.84 --> 4125.34] faith -[4125.34 --> 4125.56] in -[4125.56 --> 4125.70] the -[4125.70 --> 4125.94] life -[4125.94 --> 4126.20] of -[4126.20 --> 4126.54] faith -[4126.54 --> 4127.46] oftentimes -[4127.46 --> 4128.14] it -[4128.14 --> 4128.30] is -[4128.30 --> 4128.50] the -[4128.50 --> 4128.98] hard -[4128.98 --> 4129.48] way -[4129.48 --> 4130.10] that -[4130.10 --> 4130.28] is -[4130.28 --> 4130.62] good -[4130.62 --> 4132.28] maturity -[4132.28 --> 4132.98] comes -[4132.98 --> 4133.74] when we -[4133.74 --> 4134.02] have -[4134.02 --> 4134.46] a -[4134.46 --> 4135.34] holy -[4135.34 --> 4136.52] discontent -[4136.52 --> 4137.10] with the -[4137.10 --> 4137.44] present -[4137.44 --> 4138.10] reality -[4138.10 --> 4138.76] that -[4138.76 --> 4139.30] motivates -[4139.30 --> 4139.76] us -[4139.76 --> 4140.08] through -[4140.08 --> 4140.64] hardship -[4140.64 --> 4141.26] or -[4141.26 --> 4141.70] trial -[4141.70 --> 4143.28] and it -[4143.28 --> 4143.60] seems -[4143.60 --> 4144.54] counterintuitive -[4144.54 --> 4145.08] to the -[4145.08 --> 4145.96] messaging -[4145.96 --> 4146.68] of this -[4146.68 --> 4147.16] world -[4147.16 --> 4147.46] but -[4147.46 --> 4148.10] really -[4148.10 --> 4148.54] it is -[4148.54 --> 4148.76] the -[4148.76 --> 4149.38] cruciform -[4149.38 --> 4150.28] life -[4150.28 --> 4150.60] it is -[4150.60 --> 4150.80] the -[4150.80 --> 4151.24] daily -[4151.24 --> 4151.94] dying -[4151.94 --> 4152.66] and rising -[4152.66 --> 4153.26] of self -[4153.26 --> 4153.80] and taking -[4153.80 --> 4154.18] up your -[4154.18 --> 4154.54] cross -[4154.54 --> 4155.10] and following -[4155.10 --> 4155.88] after Jesus -[4155.88 --> 4156.52] that is -[4156.52 --> 4157.02] the good -[4157.02 --> 4157.54] life -[4157.54 --> 4159.50] and -[4159.50 --> 4159.84] Christ -[4159.84 --> 4160.32] actually -[4160.32 --> 4160.56] is -[4160.56 --> 4160.70] our -[4160.70 --> 4161.16] example -[4161.16 --> 4161.42] of -[4161.42 --> 4161.66] this -[4161.66 --> 4161.82] and -[4161.82 --> 4162.36] Paul -[4162.36 --> 4162.74] makes -[4162.74 --> 4163.04] this -[4163.04 --> 4163.38] point -[4163.38 --> 4163.68] look at -[4163.68 --> 4163.88] verse -[4163.88 --> 4164.24] three -[4164.24 --> 4165.84] for -[4165.84 --> 4166.12] even -[4166.12 --> 4166.64] Christ -[4166.64 --> 4167.00] did -[4167.00 --> 4167.22] not -[4167.22 --> 4167.60] please -[4167.60 --> 4168.18] himself -[4168.18 --> 4169.04] but -[4169.04 --> 4169.44] as -[4169.44 --> 4169.56] it -[4169.56 --> 4169.72] is -[4169.72 --> 4169.98] written -[4169.98 --> 4170.50] the -[4170.50 --> 4171.10] insults -[4171.10 --> 4171.24] of -[4171.24 --> 4171.56] those -[4171.56 --> 4171.76] who -[4171.76 --> 4172.20] insult -[4172.20 --> 4172.54] you -[4172.54 --> 4172.84] have -[4172.84 --> 4173.26] fallen -[4173.26 --> 4173.90] on -[4173.90 --> 4174.64] me -[4174.64 --> 4175.64] right -[4175.64 --> 4176.16] Christ -[4176.16 --> 4176.70] bore -[4176.70 --> 4177.00] the -[4177.00 --> 4177.68] failings -[4177.68 --> 4178.24] of -[4178.24 --> 4178.48] the -[4178.48 --> 4178.74] weak -[4178.74 --> 4179.18] Christ -[4179.18 --> 4179.54] took -[4179.54 --> 4179.76] our -[4179.76 --> 4180.18] sin -[4180.18 --> 4180.58] and -[4180.58 --> 4180.76] our -[4180.76 --> 4181.18] flesh -[4181.18 --> 4181.52] he -[4181.52 --> 4181.70] took -[4181.70 --> 4181.84] our -[4181.84 --> 4182.28] punishment -[4182.28 --> 4182.58] for -[4182.58 --> 4182.88] sin -[4182.88 --> 4183.26] and -[4183.26 --> 4183.60] on -[4183.60 --> 4183.78] the -[4183.78 --> 4184.14] cross -[4184.14 --> 4184.38] he -[4184.38 --> 4184.70] bore -[4184.70 --> 4185.10] our -[4185.10 --> 4185.80] pain -[4185.80 --> 4186.50] by his -[4186.50 --> 4186.98] wounds -[4186.98 --> 4187.28] we -[4187.28 --> 4187.74] are -[4187.74 --> 4188.18] healed -[4188.18 --> 4188.88] he -[4188.88 --> 4189.28] died -[4189.28 --> 4189.50] the -[4189.50 --> 4189.78] death -[4189.78 --> 4189.98] that -[4189.98 --> 4190.24] we -[4190.24 --> 4191.18] deserve -[4191.18 --> 4192.56] Hebrews -[4192.56 --> 4193.00] 12 -[4193.00 --> 4193.24] verse -[4193.24 --> 4193.50] 2 -[4193.50 --> 4193.88] says -[4193.88 --> 4194.14] that -[4194.14 --> 4194.74] for -[4194.74 --> 4194.92] the -[4194.92 --> 4195.36] joy -[4195.36 --> 4195.78] set -[4195.78 --> 4196.40] before -[4196.40 --> 4196.74] him -[4196.74 --> 4197.06] he -[4197.06 --> 4197.80] endured -[4197.80 --> 4198.08] the -[4198.08 --> 4198.60] cross -[4198.60 --> 4199.50] scorning -[4199.50 --> 4199.72] its -[4199.72 --> 4200.08] shame -[4200.08 --> 4201.50] right -[4201.50 --> 4201.74] for -[4201.74 --> 4201.94] the -[4201.94 --> 4202.28] greater -[4202.28 --> 4202.80] good -[4202.80 --> 4203.24] the -[4203.24 --> 4203.60] greater -[4203.60 --> 4204.18] joy -[4204.18 --> 4204.68] Jesus -[4204.68 --> 4205.30] endured -[4205.30 --> 4205.86] the -[4205.86 --> 4206.32] cross -[4206.32 --> 4207.26] and -[4207.26 --> 4207.40] in -[4207.40 --> 4207.68] Jesus -[4207.68 --> 4208.12] case -[4208.12 --> 4208.36] just -[4208.36 --> 4208.50] so -[4208.50 --> 4208.60] you -[4208.60 --> 4208.84] know -[4208.84 --> 4209.20] the -[4209.20 --> 4209.48] greater -[4209.48 --> 4209.86] good -[4209.86 --> 4210.06] that -[4210.06 --> 4210.34] greater -[4210.34 --> 4210.84] joy -[4210.84 --> 4211.44] is -[4211.44 --> 4211.68] you -[4211.68 --> 4211.86] and -[4211.86 --> 4212.12] me -[4212.12 --> 4213.08] it's -[4213.08 --> 4213.26] his -[4213.26 --> 4213.76] bride -[4213.76 --> 4214.66] right -[4214.66 --> 4214.86] it's -[4214.86 --> 4215.34] his bride -[4215.34 --> 4215.62] being -[4215.62 --> 4216.44] reconciled -[4216.44 --> 4216.82] to the -[4216.82 --> 4217.16] father -[4217.16 --> 4217.66] it's -[4217.66 --> 4217.84] for -[4217.84 --> 4218.22] your -[4218.22 --> 4218.58] sake -[4218.58 --> 4218.76] that -[4218.76 --> 4219.00] he -[4219.00 --> 4219.74] endured -[4219.74 --> 4220.02] the -[4220.02 --> 4220.40] cross -[4220.40 --> 4220.84] you -[4220.84 --> 4221.18] are -[4221.18 --> 4221.46] his -[4221.46 --> 4221.78] greater -[4221.78 --> 4222.14] good -[4222.14 --> 4222.32] and -[4222.32 --> 4222.50] by -[4222.50 --> 4223.36] reclaiming -[4223.36 --> 4223.54] you -[4223.54 --> 4223.76] by -[4223.76 --> 4224.46] reconciling -[4224.46 --> 4224.68] you -[4224.68 --> 4225.10] he -[4225.10 --> 4225.88] glorifies -[4225.88 --> 4226.12] the -[4226.12 --> 4226.54] father -[4226.54 --> 4227.96] that's -[4227.96 --> 4228.16] his -[4228.16 --> 4228.46] greater -[4228.46 --> 4228.78] good -[4228.78 --> 4230.42] but it -[4230.42 --> 4230.56] was -[4230.56 --> 4230.74] through -[4230.74 --> 4230.88] the -[4230.88 --> 4231.26] cross -[4231.26 --> 4232.34] the -[4232.34 --> 4232.74] Christian -[4232.74 --> 4233.16] life -[4233.16 --> 4233.42] is -[4233.42 --> 4234.06] about -[4234.06 --> 4234.44] doing -[4234.44 --> 4234.88] good -[4234.88 --> 4235.26] even -[4235.26 --> 4235.54] when -[4235.54 --> 4235.70] it -[4235.70 --> 4236.32] requires -[4236.32 --> 4237.34] you -[4237.34 --> 4237.86] taking -[4237.86 --> 4238.26] up -[4238.26 --> 4238.50] your -[4238.50 --> 4239.00] cross -[4239.00 --> 4239.44] even -[4239.44 --> 4239.60] when -[4239.60 --> 4239.78] it's -[4239.78 --> 4240.10] hard -[4240.10 --> 4240.66] it's -[4240.66 --> 4240.88] about -[4240.88 --> 4241.40] allowing -[4241.40 --> 4241.90] God -[4241.90 --> 4242.08] to -[4242.08 --> 4242.66] define -[4242.66 --> 4242.96] what -[4242.96 --> 4243.14] is -[4243.14 --> 4243.48] good -[4243.48 --> 4244.04] even -[4244.04 --> 4244.26] if -[4244.26 --> 4244.50] that -[4244.50 --> 4245.16] contradicts -[4245.16 --> 4245.34] my -[4245.34 --> 4246.00] desires -[4246.00 --> 4247.00] or my -[4247.00 --> 4247.16] own -[4247.16 --> 4247.68] ideas -[4247.68 --> 4249.86] but a -[4249.86 --> 4250.42] gospel -[4250.42 --> 4251.04] unity -[4251.04 --> 4252.32] then is a -[4252.32 --> 4252.90] group of -[4252.90 --> 4254.14] people doing -[4254.14 --> 4254.80] this and -[4254.80 --> 4255.80] pursuing this -[4255.80 --> 4256.34] together -[4256.34 --> 4257.24] and again -[4257.24 --> 4257.90] right there's -[4257.90 --> 4259.06] something incredibly -[4259.06 --> 4259.68] compelling -[4259.68 --> 4261.12] about people -[4261.12 --> 4261.80] who witness -[4261.80 --> 4262.76] this truth -[4262.76 --> 4263.36] in their -[4263.36 --> 4264.46] life together -[4264.46 --> 4265.30] people who -[4265.30 --> 4266.48] will sacrifice -[4266.48 --> 4267.48] for their -[4267.48 --> 4267.82] neighbor -[4267.82 --> 4268.32] who will -[4268.32 --> 4269.12] put others -[4269.12 --> 4269.54] first -[4269.54 --> 4270.08] people who -[4270.08 --> 4270.86] will mourn -[4270.86 --> 4271.40] alongside -[4271.40 --> 4272.26] of those -[4272.26 --> 4272.92] who mourn -[4272.92 --> 4273.46] who will -[4273.46 --> 4273.68] come -[4273.68 --> 4274.12] alongside -[4274.12 --> 4274.60] you -[4274.60 --> 4275.14] in the -[4275.14 --> 4275.40] dark -[4275.40 --> 4275.66] night -[4275.66 --> 4275.96] of the -[4275.96 --> 4276.24] soul -[4276.24 --> 4276.60] when you -[4276.60 --> 4277.02] can no -[4277.02 --> 4277.32] longer -[4277.32 --> 4277.74] carry -[4277.74 --> 4278.02] that -[4278.02 --> 4278.36] cross -[4278.36 --> 4278.50] that -[4278.50 --> 4278.58] you -[4278.58 --> 4278.70] have -[4278.70 --> 4278.80] been -[4278.80 --> 4279.02] given -[4279.02 --> 4279.68] and like -[4279.68 --> 4280.02] Simon -[4280.02 --> 4280.38] they will -[4280.38 --> 4280.76] say let -[4280.76 --> 4281.24] me pick -[4281.24 --> 4281.54] it up -[4281.54 --> 4282.24] and carry -[4282.24 --> 4282.62] it for -[4282.62 --> 4282.94] you -[4282.94 --> 4284.32] right that's -[4284.32 --> 4284.74] a picture -[4284.74 --> 4285.62] of the -[4285.62 --> 4286.04] gospel -[4286.04 --> 4287.54] that unity -[4287.54 --> 4288.68] can be -[4288.68 --> 4289.26] built on -[4289.26 --> 4291.66] now the -[4291.66 --> 4292.18] third thing -[4292.18 --> 4293.44] about gospel -[4293.44 --> 4293.84] unity -[4293.84 --> 4295.06] is that it -[4295.06 --> 4295.70] grows -[4295.70 --> 4296.48] towards -[4296.48 --> 4297.44] hope -[4297.44 --> 4297.86] and here's -[4297.86 --> 4298.38] verse 4 -[4298.38 --> 4301.10] everything -[4301.10 --> 4301.74] that was -[4301.74 --> 4302.28] written in -[4302.28 --> 4302.90] the past -[4302.90 --> 4303.36] was written -[4303.36 --> 4303.90] to teach -[4303.90 --> 4304.24] us -[4304.24 --> 4304.98] so that -[4304.98 --> 4305.28] through -[4305.28 --> 4305.54] the -[4305.54 --> 4306.02] endurance -[4306.02 --> 4306.38] taught -[4306.38 --> 4306.68] in the -[4306.68 --> 4307.02] scriptures -[4307.02 --> 4307.76] and the -[4307.76 --> 4308.26] encouragement -[4308.26 --> 4309.00] they provide -[4309.00 --> 4309.86] we might -[4309.86 --> 4310.44] have -[4310.44 --> 4311.56] hope -[4311.56 --> 4314.18] now remember -[4314.18 --> 4314.94] our big -[4314.94 --> 4315.58] idea this -[4315.58 --> 4316.08] morning is -[4316.08 --> 4317.22] that maturity -[4317.22 --> 4318.06] in the -[4318.06 --> 4318.98] gospel builds -[4318.98 --> 4320.36] unity around -[4320.36 --> 4321.28] the gospel -[4321.28 --> 4322.24] and so -[4322.24 --> 4323.30] inherent in -[4323.30 --> 4324.04] the idea -[4324.04 --> 4324.56] is that -[4324.56 --> 4325.16] maturity -[4325.16 --> 4326.36] requires -[4326.36 --> 4327.12] growth -[4327.12 --> 4328.24] maturity -[4328.24 --> 4329.32] in the -[4329.32 --> 4329.82] gospel -[4329.82 --> 4330.80] is a -[4330.80 --> 4331.18] building -[4331.18 --> 4332.24] you up -[4332.24 --> 4334.36] and part -[4334.36 --> 4335.24] of what -[4335.24 --> 4336.26] we read -[4336.26 --> 4337.20] then is -[4337.20 --> 4338.28] how we -[4338.28 --> 4339.06] are built -[4339.06 --> 4339.90] up -[4339.90 --> 4341.02] everything -[4341.02 --> 4341.90] that was -[4341.90 --> 4342.38] written in -[4342.38 --> 4342.90] the past -[4342.90 --> 4343.36] was written -[4343.36 --> 4344.04] to teach -[4344.04 --> 4344.48] us -[4344.48 --> 4345.32] Paul writes -[4345.32 --> 4346.88] and so -[4346.88 --> 4347.66] our building -[4347.66 --> 4348.74] our mutual -[4348.74 --> 4349.76] edification -[4349.76 --> 4350.86] our maturing -[4350.86 --> 4352.26] comes by -[4352.26 --> 4353.22] being taught -[4353.22 --> 4354.54] of and in -[4354.54 --> 4355.44] and by -[4355.44 --> 4356.36] the scriptures -[4356.36 --> 4357.18] by the -[4357.18 --> 4357.46] word of -[4357.46 --> 4357.80] God -[4357.80 --> 4359.08] the life -[4359.08 --> 4359.64] of gospel -[4359.64 --> 4360.20] unity -[4360.20 --> 4361.78] isn't one -[4361.78 --> 4362.56] of accomplishment -[4362.56 --> 4363.16] it's one -[4363.16 --> 4363.82] of growing -[4363.82 --> 4364.90] one of being -[4364.90 --> 4365.38] taught -[4365.38 --> 4365.72] one of -[4365.72 --> 4366.34] constantly -[4366.34 --> 4367.22] maturing -[4367.22 --> 4368.06] and constantly -[4368.06 --> 4368.80] growing -[4368.80 --> 4369.36] and so -[4369.36 --> 4370.16] that means -[4370.16 --> 4370.82] we must -[4370.82 --> 4371.90] constantly -[4371.90 --> 4372.44] be -[4372.44 --> 4373.26] in -[4373.26 --> 4373.94] God's -[4373.94 --> 4374.48] word -[4374.48 --> 4375.58] we must -[4375.58 --> 4376.16] constantly -[4376.16 --> 4376.88] be searching -[4376.88 --> 4377.86] the scriptures -[4377.86 --> 4378.40] we must -[4378.40 --> 4379.08] be like -[4379.08 --> 4379.88] the Berean -[4379.88 --> 4380.28] church -[4380.28 --> 4380.80] in Acts -[4380.80 --> 4381.34] 17 -[4381.34 --> 4382.40] that tests -[4382.40 --> 4383.28] to see -[4383.28 --> 4383.88] that what -[4383.88 --> 4384.48] the apostles -[4384.48 --> 4384.98] taught -[4384.98 --> 4385.64] was true -[4385.64 --> 4387.62] right -[4387.62 --> 4388.12] they dug -[4388.12 --> 4388.64] deep -[4388.64 --> 4389.76] into the -[4389.76 --> 4390.10] word -[4390.10 --> 4392.80] and so -[4392.80 --> 4393.04] let me -[4393.04 --> 4393.64] ask you -[4393.64 --> 4395.26] when was -[4395.26 --> 4395.58] the last -[4395.58 --> 4396.02] time you -[4396.02 --> 4396.30] opened -[4396.30 --> 4396.48] your -[4396.48 --> 4396.82] bible -[4396.82 --> 4400.92] and if -[4400.92 --> 4401.20] it's been -[4401.20 --> 4401.66] a while -[4401.66 --> 4402.90] can I -[4402.90 --> 4403.34] encourage -[4403.34 --> 4403.54] you -[4403.54 --> 4403.80] can I -[4403.80 --> 4404.24] challenge -[4404.24 --> 4404.62] you -[4404.62 --> 4405.12] right -[4405.12 --> 4405.40] make -[4405.40 --> 4405.82] today -[4405.82 --> 4406.12] day -[4406.12 --> 4406.54] one -[4406.54 --> 4407.94] of a -[4407.94 --> 4408.08] new -[4408.08 --> 4408.68] practice -[4408.68 --> 4409.70] of a -[4409.70 --> 4409.98] new way -[4409.98 --> 4410.48] of being -[4410.48 --> 4412.54] and let's -[4412.54 --> 4413.04] be clear -[4413.04 --> 4413.26] right -[4413.26 --> 4413.94] Paul tells -[4413.94 --> 4414.76] us exactly -[4414.76 --> 4415.46] why this -[4415.46 --> 4416.40] important -[4416.40 --> 4416.66] right -[4416.66 --> 4416.98] we are -[4416.98 --> 4417.42] taught -[4417.42 --> 4418.02] in the -[4418.02 --> 4418.42] scriptures -[4418.42 --> 4419.74] so that -[4419.74 --> 4420.36] we might -[4420.36 --> 4420.96] endure -[4420.96 --> 4422.88] and it's -[4422.88 --> 4423.44] an endurance -[4423.44 --> 4424.18] that is -[4424.18 --> 4424.66] taught -[4424.66 --> 4425.14] in the -[4425.14 --> 4425.46] scriptures -[4425.46 --> 4426.30] and so -[4426.30 --> 4426.84] we read -[4426.84 --> 4427.32] about how -[4427.32 --> 4428.14] they endured -[4428.14 --> 4428.80] and how -[4428.80 --> 4429.28] we might -[4429.28 --> 4429.74] then apply -[4429.74 --> 4430.12] that to -[4430.12 --> 4430.64] ourselves -[4430.64 --> 4431.88] and if -[4431.88 --> 4432.42] it's true -[4432.42 --> 4433.16] that Christians -[4433.16 --> 4433.86] are called -[4433.86 --> 4434.52] to do -[4434.52 --> 4435.30] the good -[4435.30 --> 4435.70] thing -[4435.70 --> 4436.12] and not -[4436.12 --> 4437.06] the expedient -[4437.06 --> 4437.42] thing -[4437.42 --> 4437.72] to do -[4437.72 --> 4438.12] the right -[4438.12 --> 4438.48] thing -[4438.48 --> 4439.06] and not -[4439.06 --> 4439.52] the easy -[4439.52 --> 4439.96] thing -[4439.96 --> 4440.68] Christians -[4440.68 --> 4441.20] are going -[4441.20 --> 4441.52] to have -[4441.52 --> 4442.04] to learn -[4442.04 --> 4442.76] endurance -[4442.76 --> 4444.48] we're going -[4444.48 --> 4444.70] to have -[4444.70 --> 4445.12] to learn -[4445.12 --> 4445.74] perseverance -[4445.74 --> 4447.36] and if -[4447.36 --> 4447.98] it's true -[4447.98 --> 4448.62] as I've -[4448.62 --> 4449.00] said in -[4449.00 --> 4449.54] the past -[4449.54 --> 4450.06] and would -[4450.06 --> 4450.50] contend -[4450.50 --> 4451.10] that it -[4451.10 --> 4451.78] is only -[4451.78 --> 4452.44] going to -[4452.44 --> 4453.06] get more -[4453.06 --> 4453.42] and more -[4453.42 --> 4453.86] difficult -[4453.86 --> 4454.28] to be -[4454.28 --> 4454.66] Christian -[4454.66 --> 4455.28] in the -[4455.28 --> 4455.46] world -[4455.46 --> 4455.82] today -[4455.82 --> 4456.50] I think -[4456.50 --> 4456.88] we really -[4456.88 --> 4457.32] need to -[4457.32 --> 4457.90] reclaim -[4457.90 --> 4458.92] this identity -[4458.92 --> 4460.00] of practice -[4460.00 --> 4460.86] of spiritual -[4460.86 --> 4461.32] discipline -[4461.32 --> 4461.80] we need -[4461.80 --> 4462.44] to reclaim -[4462.44 --> 4462.76] this -[4462.76 --> 4463.84] discipleship -[4463.84 --> 4464.22] this way -[4464.22 --> 4464.78] of being -[4464.78 --> 4465.46] in the -[4465.46 --> 4465.80] world -[4465.80 --> 4467.10] because you -[4467.10 --> 4467.24] see -[4467.24 --> 4468.08] in the -[4468.08 --> 4468.50] scriptures -[4468.50 --> 4469.26] there's -[4469.26 --> 4469.94] encouragement -[4469.94 --> 4471.44] in the -[4471.44 --> 4471.70] scriptures -[4471.70 --> 4472.34] we read -[4472.34 --> 4472.70] about the -[4472.70 --> 4473.26] power of -[4473.26 --> 4473.54] God -[4473.54 --> 4474.08] and the -[4474.08 --> 4474.40] victory -[4474.40 --> 4474.82] of God -[4474.82 --> 4475.08] in the -[4475.08 --> 4475.38] scriptures -[4475.38 --> 4476.20] we read -[4476.20 --> 4476.70] about how -[4476.70 --> 4477.58] even when -[4477.58 --> 4478.72] everything seems -[4478.72 --> 4479.52] to be against -[4479.52 --> 4479.90] us -[4479.90 --> 4480.68] God is -[4480.68 --> 4481.60] for us -[4481.60 --> 4482.40] even though -[4482.40 --> 4483.26] weeping may -[4483.26 --> 4484.10] last for the -[4484.10 --> 4484.38] night -[4484.38 --> 4485.24] reading the -[4485.24 --> 4486.00] Bible teaches -[4486.00 --> 4486.98] us that joy -[4486.98 --> 4488.08] comes in the -[4488.08 --> 4488.42] morning -[4488.42 --> 4489.10] right -[4489.10 --> 4489.60] reading the -[4489.60 --> 4490.28] Bible as -[4490.28 --> 4491.20] God's very -[4491.20 --> 4492.34] word spoken -[4492.34 --> 4493.20] directly to -[4493.20 --> 4493.86] your heart -[4493.86 --> 4494.90] directly to -[4494.90 --> 4495.88] your imagination -[4495.88 --> 4497.10] teaches you -[4497.10 --> 4497.98] that even -[4497.98 --> 4498.52] when we are -[4498.52 --> 4499.26] hard pressed -[4499.26 --> 4499.82] on every -[4499.82 --> 4500.38] side we -[4500.38 --> 4500.70] are not -[4500.70 --> 4501.30] crushed -[4501.30 --> 4502.50] that even -[4502.50 --> 4503.02] when we are -[4503.02 --> 4503.98] perplexed -[4503.98 --> 4504.54] we're not -[4504.54 --> 4505.04] in despair -[4505.04 --> 4505.78] even when we -[4505.78 --> 4506.60] are persecuted -[4506.60 --> 4507.46] we're never -[4507.46 --> 4507.92] abandoned -[4507.92 --> 4508.78] even when we -[4508.78 --> 4509.28] are struck -[4509.28 --> 4510.18] down we -[4510.18 --> 4510.80] are not -[4510.80 --> 4511.66] destroyed -[4511.66 --> 4514.88] and I don't -[4514.88 --> 4515.24] know about -[4515.24 --> 4516.90] you but -[4516.90 --> 4517.46] that comes -[4517.46 --> 4518.74] together to -[4518.74 --> 4519.54] give me -[4519.54 --> 4520.24] hope -[4520.24 --> 4521.50] that comes -[4521.50 --> 4522.06] together to -[4522.06 --> 4522.54] give me -[4522.54 --> 4523.56] encouragement -[4523.56 --> 4525.84] I was -[4525.84 --> 4526.24] thinking about -[4526.24 --> 4526.58] a way to -[4526.58 --> 4527.16] illustrate this -[4527.16 --> 4527.54] point and -[4527.54 --> 4527.80] actually -[4527.80 --> 4529.74] Josh did -[4529.74 --> 4530.40] it for us -[4530.40 --> 4531.58] yesterday at -[4531.58 --> 4532.06] our baseball -[4532.06 --> 4533.08] game so the -[4533.08 --> 4534.02] isotopes is our -[4534.02 --> 4534.64] church baseball -[4534.64 --> 4535.84] team we had -[4535.84 --> 4536.32] two games -[4536.32 --> 4537.60] yesterday and -[4537.60 --> 4538.80] Josh has a -[4538.80 --> 4539.50] cheer that he -[4539.50 --> 4540.30] likes to do -[4540.30 --> 4541.42] when someone -[4541.42 --> 4542.14] goes up into a -[4542.14 --> 4542.90] hard situation -[4542.90 --> 4544.12] Josh says -[4544.12 --> 4545.70] the joy of the -[4545.70 --> 4546.14] Lord is your -[4546.14 --> 4546.64] strength -[4546.64 --> 4550.22] he's quoting -[4550.22 --> 4550.74] scripture -[4550.74 --> 4552.62] he's encouraging -[4552.62 --> 4553.00] you with -[4553.00 --> 4553.38] scripture -[4553.38 --> 4554.54] but then I -[4554.54 --> 4555.02] went up to -[4555.02 --> 4556.40] bat and -[4556.40 --> 4557.36] Josh shouted -[4557.36 --> 4558.52] I don't have -[4558.52 --> 4558.94] to quote the -[4558.94 --> 4559.48] Bible to you -[4559.48 --> 4559.92] because you -[4559.92 --> 4560.46] know it -[4560.46 --> 4563.52] and he's not -[4563.52 --> 4564.98] wrong he -[4564.98 --> 4565.54] doesn't have to -[4565.54 --> 4565.98] quote it to me -[4565.98 --> 4566.88] because in that -[4566.88 --> 4567.58] moment literally -[4567.58 --> 4568.42] like in my brain -[4568.42 --> 4569.40] was a rolodex of -[4569.40 --> 4569.96] scripture verses -[4569.96 --> 4570.36] that was like -[4570.36 --> 4570.78] encouragement -[4570.78 --> 4571.24] encouragement -[4571.24 --> 4571.72] encouragement -[4571.72 --> 4572.34] hope good -[4572.34 --> 4573.22] cheer be -[4573.22 --> 4574.20] excited run -[4574.20 --> 4575.10] the race with -[4575.10 --> 4575.42] the Lord -[4575.42 --> 4576.24] so round second -[4576.24 --> 4576.78] base really -[4576.78 --> 4577.46] fast that's how -[4577.46 --> 4577.92] I made that -[4577.92 --> 4578.40] mean in that -[4578.40 --> 4580.14] moment point -[4580.14 --> 4581.36] was because my -[4581.36 --> 4582.44] life is saturated -[4582.44 --> 4583.00] with the -[4583.00 --> 4584.00] scriptures and -[4584.00 --> 4584.76] Josh could say -[4584.76 --> 4585.16] that and -[4585.16 --> 4585.70] know that -[4585.70 --> 4586.76] I was -[4586.76 --> 4587.32] encouraged -[4587.32 --> 4588.20] and had -[4588.20 --> 4588.62] hope -[4588.62 --> 4591.90] and so -[4591.90 --> 4592.58] saturate -[4592.58 --> 4593.18] yourselves -[4593.18 --> 4594.20] with the -[4594.20 --> 4594.56] scriptures -[4594.56 --> 4596.06] and let -[4596.06 --> 4596.80] that be -[4596.80 --> 4597.86] a mark -[4597.86 --> 4598.64] of your -[4598.64 --> 4599.60] growing -[4599.60 --> 4600.50] maturity -[4600.50 --> 4602.56] now the -[4602.56 --> 4603.10] last thing -[4603.10 --> 4604.54] about unity -[4604.54 --> 4605.98] is that it -[4605.98 --> 4606.82] glorifies -[4606.82 --> 4607.50] God -[4607.50 --> 4608.82] gospel unity -[4608.82 --> 4609.72] glorifies -[4609.72 --> 4610.44] God -[4610.44 --> 4611.16] verses 5 -[4611.16 --> 4612.64] and 6 -[4612.64 --> 4613.76] may the -[4613.76 --> 4614.16] God who -[4614.16 --> 4614.44] gives -[4614.44 --> 4614.98] endurance -[4614.98 --> 4615.68] and encouragement -[4615.68 --> 4616.34] give you the -[4616.34 --> 4617.04] same attitude -[4617.04 --> 4617.60] of mind -[4617.60 --> 4618.34] toward each -[4618.34 --> 4618.72] other that -[4618.72 --> 4619.42] Christ Jesus -[4619.42 --> 4620.60] had so -[4620.60 --> 4621.48] that with -[4621.48 --> 4622.34] one mind -[4622.34 --> 4622.94] and one -[4622.94 --> 4623.48] voice -[4623.48 --> 4624.40] you may -[4624.40 --> 4625.64] glorify -[4625.64 --> 4626.36] the God -[4626.36 --> 4627.14] and Father -[4627.14 --> 4627.68] of our -[4627.68 --> 4628.06] Lord -[4628.06 --> 4628.60] Jesus -[4628.60 --> 4629.72] Christ -[4629.72 --> 4631.56] now that -[4631.56 --> 4632.12] attitude of -[4632.12 --> 4632.68] mind that -[4632.68 --> 4633.26] we share -[4633.26 --> 4633.66] with -[4633.66 --> 4634.90] Jesus Christ -[4634.90 --> 4635.50] is one -[4635.50 --> 4636.26] that willingly -[4636.26 --> 4636.86] suffers -[4636.86 --> 4638.00] for a -[4638.00 --> 4638.46] brother or -[4638.46 --> 4639.42] sister or -[4639.42 --> 4639.80] a neighbor -[4639.80 --> 4640.72] one that -[4640.72 --> 4641.64] enters into -[4641.64 --> 4642.64] the struggle -[4642.64 --> 4643.22] of our -[4643.22 --> 4644.06] neighbors for -[4644.06 --> 4644.80] their good -[4644.80 --> 4645.70] that's what -[4645.70 --> 4646.28] our unity -[4646.28 --> 4646.76] is -[4646.76 --> 4647.70] it's not -[4647.70 --> 4648.34] requiring -[4648.34 --> 4649.44] agreement on -[4649.44 --> 4650.16] disputable -[4650.16 --> 4650.74] matters -[4650.74 --> 4651.54] it's agreeing -[4651.54 --> 4652.14] on how -[4652.14 --> 4652.48] we're going -[4652.48 --> 4652.90] to dispute -[4652.90 --> 4653.54] these matters -[4653.54 --> 4656.72] our unity -[4656.72 --> 4657.50] is made -[4657.50 --> 4658.28] visible in -[4658.28 --> 4658.62] how we -[4658.62 --> 4659.60] experience -[4659.60 --> 4660.54] disagreement -[4660.54 --> 4662.66] and anyone -[4662.66 --> 4663.56] who uses -[4663.56 --> 4664.38] this text -[4664.38 --> 4665.12] as a hammer -[4665.12 --> 4665.90] to make -[4665.90 --> 4666.62] people think -[4666.62 --> 4667.24] like them -[4667.24 --> 4668.04] is abusing -[4668.04 --> 4668.88] this text -[4668.88 --> 4671.90] and this -[4671.90 --> 4672.38] is the kind -[4672.38 --> 4672.94] of unity -[4672.94 --> 4673.92] that brings -[4673.92 --> 4674.50] glory to -[4674.50 --> 4674.84] God -[4674.84 --> 4675.96] and I -[4675.96 --> 4676.46] believe that -[4676.46 --> 4676.94] this is the -[4676.94 --> 4677.62] kind of unity -[4677.62 --> 4678.28] that Jesus -[4678.28 --> 4678.98] prays for -[4678.98 --> 4679.86] in John 17 -[4679.86 --> 4681.62] right this -[4681.62 --> 4682.04] is the kind -[4682.04 --> 4682.46] of unity -[4682.46 --> 4682.96] that gives -[4682.96 --> 4683.76] witness to -[4683.76 --> 4684.46] who God -[4684.46 --> 4685.60] is and -[4685.60 --> 4686.10] that's how -[4686.10 --> 4686.52] it brings -[4686.52 --> 4687.10] glory to -[4687.10 --> 4687.36] God -[4687.36 --> 4687.88] right Jesus -[4687.88 --> 4688.86] in John 17 -[4688.86 --> 4689.96] prayed that -[4689.96 --> 4690.46] the church -[4690.46 --> 4691.26] would be one -[4691.26 --> 4692.40] as the -[4692.40 --> 4693.52] father and -[4693.52 --> 4694.86] he are -[4694.86 --> 4695.66] one -[4695.66 --> 4697.44] here's a -[4697.44 --> 4697.66] little bit -[4697.66 --> 4698.00] of cool -[4698.00 --> 4698.56] trinitarian -[4698.56 --> 4699.54] theology for -[4699.54 --> 4699.96] you right -[4699.96 --> 4700.88] because in -[4700.88 --> 4701.30] trinitarian -[4701.30 --> 4702.10] theology we -[4702.10 --> 4702.68] say yes -[4702.68 --> 4703.50] the father -[4703.50 --> 4703.88] and the -[4703.88 --> 4704.38] son are -[4704.38 --> 4704.92] and the -[4704.92 --> 4705.44] holy spirit -[4705.44 --> 4706.00] are one -[4706.00 --> 4706.46] God -[4706.46 --> 4707.56] but the -[4707.56 --> 4708.20] father is -[4708.20 --> 4708.56] not the -[4708.56 --> 4709.80] son and -[4709.80 --> 4710.20] the son -[4710.20 --> 4710.56] is not -[4710.56 --> 4711.08] the father -[4711.08 --> 4711.90] and neither -[4711.90 --> 4712.44] the son -[4712.44 --> 4712.82] nor the -[4712.82 --> 4713.24] father are -[4713.24 --> 4713.54] the holy -[4713.54 --> 4713.94] spirit -[4713.94 --> 4714.86] and around -[4714.86 --> 4715.56] this triangle -[4715.56 --> 4716.18] it goes -[4716.18 --> 4719.56] that they -[4719.56 --> 4721.22] are one -[4721.22 --> 4722.10] does not -[4722.10 --> 4723.16] erase the -[4723.16 --> 4723.66] differentiation -[4723.66 --> 4725.08] of persons -[4725.08 --> 4726.08] within -[4726.08 --> 4727.14] their -[4727.14 --> 4728.04] oneness -[4728.04 --> 4728.60] it doesn't -[4728.60 --> 4729.14] erase the -[4729.14 --> 4729.74] distinction -[4729.74 --> 4730.54] of father -[4730.54 --> 4731.28] son and -[4731.28 --> 4732.02] holy spirit -[4732.02 --> 4733.08] within their -[4733.08 --> 4733.92] oneness -[4733.92 --> 4735.16] likewise then -[4735.16 --> 4736.92] our unity -[4736.92 --> 4738.12] transcends -[4738.12 --> 4739.48] our disunity -[4739.48 --> 4740.82] our distinctives -[4740.82 --> 4742.80] and it -[4742.80 --> 4743.48] includes them -[4743.48 --> 4744.96] and I think -[4744.96 --> 4745.52] that makes -[4745.52 --> 4746.46] it all the -[4746.46 --> 4746.82] more -[4746.82 --> 4747.84] beautiful -[4747.84 --> 4749.64] and that's -[4749.64 --> 4750.00] the kind -[4750.00 --> 4750.54] of unity -[4750.54 --> 4751.08] that God -[4751.08 --> 4752.26] is glorified -[4752.26 --> 4752.62] by -[4752.62 --> 4755.64] but then -[4755.64 --> 4756.22] there's also -[4756.22 --> 4757.46] a more -[4757.46 --> 4757.94] imminent -[4757.94 --> 4758.68] sense -[4758.68 --> 4759.36] in which -[4759.36 --> 4759.86] God is -[4759.86 --> 4760.56] glorified -[4760.56 --> 4761.00] by that -[4761.00 --> 4761.72] kind of -[4761.72 --> 4762.04] unity -[4762.04 --> 4763.22] in the -[4763.22 --> 4763.52] sense -[4763.52 --> 4764.02] that this -[4764.02 --> 4764.38] sort -[4764.38 --> 4765.02] of unity -[4765.02 --> 4765.76] is a -[4765.76 --> 4766.20] form -[4766.20 --> 4766.64] of -[4766.64 --> 4767.22] praising -[4767.22 --> 4768.18] God -[4768.18 --> 4768.72] right -[4768.72 --> 4769.46] or the -[4769.46 --> 4769.84] purpose -[4769.84 --> 4770.46] of this -[4770.46 --> 4770.84] unity -[4770.84 --> 4771.44] is to -[4771.44 --> 4771.84] lead -[4771.84 --> 4772.30] more -[4772.30 --> 4772.80] and more -[4772.80 --> 4773.28] people -[4773.28 --> 4774.64] to praise -[4774.64 --> 4775.12] him -[4775.12 --> 4775.82] with one -[4775.82 --> 4776.30] voice -[4776.30 --> 4777.26] as Paul -[4777.26 --> 4777.52] said -[4777.52 --> 4778.30] to praise -[4778.30 --> 4778.84] him for -[4778.84 --> 4779.56] who he -[4779.56 --> 4779.92] is -[4779.92 --> 4781.30] verse -[4781.30 --> 4781.62] seven -[4781.62 --> 4782.26] right -[4782.26 --> 4782.56] it says -[4782.56 --> 4782.96] accept -[4782.96 --> 4783.48] one another -[4783.48 --> 4784.02] then just -[4784.02 --> 4784.54] as Christ -[4784.54 --> 4785.08] accepted -[4785.08 --> 4785.70] you in -[4785.70 --> 4786.40] order to -[4786.40 --> 4787.26] bring praise -[4787.26 --> 4788.42] to God -[4788.42 --> 4788.72] and then -[4788.72 --> 4789.28] verse nine -[4789.28 --> 4790.30] Christ came -[4790.30 --> 4790.92] to confirm -[4790.92 --> 4791.46] the promises -[4791.46 --> 4791.82] that were -[4791.82 --> 4792.16] made -[4792.16 --> 4793.32] and that -[4793.32 --> 4794.26] the Gentiles -[4794.26 --> 4795.50] might glorify -[4795.50 --> 4796.02] God -[4796.02 --> 4796.54] for his -[4796.54 --> 4796.92] mercy -[4796.92 --> 4798.00] and then -[4798.00 --> 4798.34] there's this -[4798.34 --> 4798.96] huge list -[4798.96 --> 4799.90] of scriptures -[4799.90 --> 4800.64] that indicate -[4800.64 --> 4801.14] that this -[4801.14 --> 4801.66] is the -[4801.66 --> 4801.96] goal -[4801.96 --> 4802.80] for your -[4802.80 --> 4803.18] unity -[4803.18 --> 4803.66] that this -[4803.66 --> 4803.98] has been -[4803.98 --> 4804.36] the goal -[4804.36 --> 4805.08] all along -[4805.08 --> 4805.38] I will -[4805.38 --> 4805.92] praise you -[4805.92 --> 4806.36] among the -[4806.36 --> 4806.84] Gentiles -[4806.84 --> 4807.16] I will -[4807.16 --> 4807.56] sing the -[4807.56 --> 4807.94] praises -[4807.94 --> 4808.66] of your -[4808.66 --> 4808.90] name -[4808.90 --> 4809.40] rejoice -[4809.40 --> 4809.74] you -[4809.74 --> 4810.30] Gentiles -[4810.30 --> 4811.04] with his -[4811.04 --> 4811.36] people -[4811.36 --> 4812.16] praise the -[4812.16 --> 4812.44] Lord -[4812.44 --> 4812.90] all you -[4812.90 --> 4813.40] Gentiles -[4813.40 --> 4813.96] let all -[4813.96 --> 4814.14] the -[4814.14 --> 4814.48] peoples -[4814.48 --> 4815.00] extol -[4815.00 --> 4815.26] him -[4815.26 --> 4816.06] the -[4816.06 --> 4816.26] root -[4816.26 --> 4816.40] of -[4816.40 --> 4816.68] Jesse -[4816.68 --> 4816.94] will -[4816.94 --> 4817.24] spring -[4817.24 --> 4817.54] up -[4817.54 --> 4819.06] one -[4819.06 --> 4819.24] who -[4819.24 --> 4819.40] will -[4819.40 --> 4819.86] arise -[4819.86 --> 4820.38] to rule -[4820.38 --> 4820.80] over the -[4820.80 --> 4821.20] nations -[4821.20 --> 4821.82] in him -[4821.82 --> 4822.08] the -[4822.08 --> 4822.82] Gentiles -[4822.82 --> 4823.96] will hope -[4823.96 --> 4825.20] a gospel -[4825.20 --> 4825.70] unity -[4825.70 --> 4826.88] glorifies God -[4826.88 --> 4827.52] in the sense -[4827.52 --> 4828.26] that it brings -[4828.26 --> 4829.42] him glory -[4829.42 --> 4830.22] it makes -[4830.22 --> 4831.18] much of his -[4831.18 --> 4831.72] greatness -[4831.72 --> 4832.74] of who he -[4832.74 --> 4833.48] is and what -[4833.48 --> 4834.18] he has done -[4834.18 --> 4835.06] and gospel -[4835.06 --> 4835.56] unity -[4835.56 --> 4837.40] also glorifies -[4837.40 --> 4837.80] God -[4837.80 --> 4838.32] in his -[4838.32 --> 4839.10] in the sense -[4839.10 --> 4839.80] that his -[4839.80 --> 4840.66] people are -[4840.66 --> 4841.30] united -[4841.30 --> 4842.02] together -[4842.02 --> 4842.86] in their -[4842.86 --> 4843.48] praising -[4843.48 --> 4844.58] of him -[4844.58 --> 4846.12] maturity -[4846.12 --> 4847.24] in the gospel -[4847.24 --> 4848.18] builds unity -[4848.18 --> 4849.34] around the -[4849.34 --> 4849.70] gospel -[4849.70 --> 4850.18] and so -[4850.18 --> 4851.20] all people -[4851.20 --> 4852.04] everywhere -[4852.04 --> 4853.00] praise -[4853.00 --> 4854.02] the Lord -[4854.02 --> 4860.48] may the -[4860.48 --> 4860.82] God of -[4860.82 --> 4861.16] hope -[4861.16 --> 4862.90] fill you -[4862.90 --> 4863.28] with all -[4863.28 --> 4863.68] joy -[4863.68 --> 4864.38] and peace -[4864.38 --> 4864.92] as you -[4864.92 --> 4865.38] trust -[4865.38 --> 4866.06] in him -[4866.06 --> 4866.74] so that -[4866.74 --> 4867.02] you may -[4867.02 --> 4867.62] overflow -[4867.62 --> 4868.50] with hope -[4868.50 --> 4869.10] by the -[4869.10 --> 4869.56] power -[4869.56 --> 4870.44] of the -[4870.44 --> 4870.68] Holy -[4870.68 --> 4871.10] Spirit -[4871.10 --> 4872.66] you see -[4872.66 --> 4873.16] maturity -[4873.16 --> 4873.84] in the -[4873.84 --> 4874.24] gospel -[4874.24 --> 4874.72] builds -[4874.72 --> 4875.10] unity -[4875.10 --> 4875.68] around -[4875.68 --> 4875.90] the -[4875.90 --> 4876.28] gospel -[4876.28 --> 4876.94] or -[4876.94 --> 4877.32] to put -[4877.32 --> 4877.44] it -[4877.44 --> 4877.74] another -[4877.74 --> 4878.08] way -[4878.08 --> 4879.00] maturity -[4879.00 --> 4880.00] brings -[4880.00 --> 4880.50] joy -[4880.50 --> 4881.14] and -[4881.14 --> 4881.64] peace -[4881.64 --> 4882.28] and -[4882.28 --> 4882.78] righteousness -[4882.78 --> 4884.16] so that -[4884.16 --> 4884.32] you -[4884.32 --> 4885.10] overflow -[4885.10 --> 4886.34] with -[4886.34 --> 4887.38] hope -[4887.38 --> 4889.58] unity -[4889.58 --> 4891.64] is -[4891.64 --> 4893.16] hopeful -[4893.16 --> 4895.22] and -[4895.22 --> 4895.54] our -[4895.54 --> 4896.16] hope -[4896.16 --> 4896.92] is -[4896.92 --> 4897.62] expressed -[4897.62 --> 4898.52] in -[4898.52 --> 4898.92] our -[4898.92 --> 4899.82] unity -[4899.82 --> 4901.36] and -[4901.36 --> 4901.96] all -[4901.96 --> 4902.28] of -[4902.28 --> 4902.76] this -[4902.76 --> 4903.72] all -[4903.72 --> 4903.90] of -[4903.90 --> 4904.28] this -[4904.28 --> 4905.32] is -[4905.32 --> 4905.52] the -[4905.52 --> 4905.94] work -[4905.94 --> 4906.62] of -[4906.62 --> 4907.08] God -[4907.08 --> 4907.46] and -[4907.46 --> 4907.64] the -[4907.64 --> 4908.10] power -[4908.10 --> 4908.80] of -[4908.80 --> 4908.96] the -[4908.96 --> 4909.28] Holy -[4909.28 --> 4910.06] Spirit -[4910.06 --> 4911.86] and -[4911.86 --> 4912.40] that -[4912.40 --> 4914.00] changes -[4914.00 --> 4915.76] everything -[4915.76 --> 4916.72] amen -[4916.72 --> 4918.06] let's -[4918.06 --> 4918.22] pray -[4918.22 --> 4918.64] together -[4918.64 --> 4925.82] holy -[4925.82 --> 4926.52] holy -[4926.52 --> 4927.30] God -[4927.30 --> 4928.36] we -[4928.36 --> 4928.82] are -[4928.82 --> 4929.68] here -[4929.68 --> 4930.48] born -[4930.48 --> 4931.02] again -[4931.02 --> 4931.58] into -[4931.58 --> 4932.02] a -[4932.02 --> 4932.38] living -[4932.38 --> 4933.26] hope -[4933.26 --> 4934.58] and -[4934.58 --> 4934.84] so -[4934.84 --> 4935.46] send us -[4935.46 --> 4935.74] out -[4935.74 --> 4936.04] in the -[4936.04 --> 4936.40] power -[4936.40 --> 4937.22] of the -[4937.22 --> 4937.48] Holy -[4937.48 --> 4937.86] Spirit -[4937.86 --> 4938.60] send us -[4938.60 --> 4938.86] out -[4938.86 --> 4939.40] that we -[4939.40 --> 4939.66] might -[4939.66 --> 4940.14] declare -[4940.14 --> 4940.44] the -[4940.44 --> 4940.94] praises -[4940.94 --> 4941.68] of -[4941.68 --> 4941.98] him -[4941.98 --> 4942.32] who -[4942.32 --> 4942.84] called -[4942.84 --> 4943.18] us -[4943.18 --> 4943.48] out -[4943.48 --> 4943.64] of -[4943.64 --> 4944.00] darkness -[4944.00 --> 4944.64] into -[4944.64 --> 4945.24] your -[4945.24 --> 4946.00] glorious -[4946.00 --> 4946.40] light -[4946.40 --> 4947.16] send us -[4947.16 --> 4947.58] out -[4947.58 --> 4949.04] unified -[4949.04 --> 4949.62] in -[4949.62 --> 4950.20] purpose -[4950.20 --> 4951.12] and -[4951.12 --> 4951.46] mission -[4951.46 --> 4952.98] send -[4952.98 --> 4953.24] us -[4953.24 --> 4953.60] out -[4953.60 --> 4954.66] having -[4954.66 --> 4955.18] grown -[4955.18 --> 4955.70] in -[4955.70 --> 4956.04] our -[4956.04 --> 4956.50] faith -[4956.50 --> 4957.26] maturing -[4957.26 --> 4958.00] towards -[4958.00 --> 4959.08] the goal -[4959.08 --> 4959.86] of being -[4959.86 --> 4960.40] more -[4960.40 --> 4960.96] and more -[4960.96 --> 4961.42] made -[4961.42 --> 4961.92] into the -[4961.92 --> 4962.32] image -[4962.32 --> 4962.90] of Jesus -[4962.90 --> 4963.46] Christ -[4963.46 --> 4964.16] our -[4964.16 --> 4964.54] Savior -[4964.54 --> 4966.54] send us -[4966.54 --> 4966.82] out -[4966.82 --> 4968.26] that we -[4968.26 --> 4968.44] might -[4968.44 --> 4968.86] overflow -[4968.86 --> 4969.76] with -[4969.76 --> 4970.12] hope -[4970.12 --> 4972.16] that we -[4972.16 --> 4972.42] might -[4972.42 --> 4973.30] exude -[4973.30 --> 4974.00] peace -[4974.00 --> 4975.24] and joy -[4975.24 --> 4976.18] and -[4976.18 --> 4976.74] righteousness -[4976.74 --> 4979.24] send us -[4979.24 --> 4979.54] out -[4979.54 --> 4981.04] that by -[4981.04 --> 4981.62] our -[4981.62 --> 4982.36] faithful -[4982.36 --> 4983.28] living -[4983.28 --> 4984.24] your -[4984.24 --> 4985.76] transforming -[4985.76 --> 4986.52] power -[4986.52 --> 4987.20] would be -[4987.20 --> 4987.98] made known -[4987.98 --> 4988.70] to the -[4988.70 --> 4989.02] world -[4989.02 --> 4991.16] in -[4991.16 --> 4991.56] Jesus -[4991.56 --> 4992.08] name -[4992.08 --> 4992.34] we -[4992.34 --> 4992.74] pray -[4992.74 --> 4994.06] amen -[4996.82 --> 4998.52] seen -[4998.58 --> 5009.22] our -[5009.22 --> 5010.52] Lord -[5010.52 --> 5011.22] peace -[5011.22 --> 5011.32] even -[5011.32 --> 5011.78] him -[5011.78 --> 5012.20] to the -[5012.20 --> 5012.48] end -[5012.48 --> 5012.58] the -[5012.58 --> 5013.30] this -[5013.30 --> 5014.30] is -[5014.30 --> 5014.42] the -[5014.42 --> 5016.16] close -[5016.16 --> 5016.90] he -[5016.90 --> 5018.64] 背 -[5018.64 --> 5019.82] hills -[5019.82 --> 5020.38] we -[5020.38 --> 5020.78] heard -[5020.88 --> 5021.16] less than -[5021.16 --> 5022.28] he -[5022.28 --> 5034.16] How great the chasm that lay between us, how high the mountain I could not climb. -[5034.16 --> 5046.96] In desperation I turned to heaven and spoke your name into the night. -[5046.96 --> 5059.34] Then through the darkness your loving kindness tore through the shadows of my soul. -[5059.34 --> 5071.70] The work is finished, the end is written, Jesus Christ my living hope. -[5071.70 --> 5080.78] Who could imagine so great a mercy? -[5080.78 --> 5087.26] What heart could follow such boundless grace? -[5087.90 --> 5099.50] The God of ages stepped down for glory to wear my sin and bear my shame. -[5099.50 --> 5105.90] The cross has spoken, I am forgiven. -[5106.94 --> 5112.58] The King of kings calls me his own. -[5113.12 --> 5118.84] Beautiful Savior, I'm yours forever. -[5120.28 --> 5125.50] Jesus Christ my living hope. -[5125.50 --> 5132.74] Hallelujah, praise the one who set me free. -[5135.24 --> 5139.22] Hallelujah, death has lost his grip on me. -[5139.58 --> 5142.52] You have broken every chain. -[5142.88 --> 5145.66] There's salvation in your name. -[5145.66 --> 5151.40] Jesus Christ my living hope. -[5151.40 --> 5157.14] Jesus Christ my living hope. -[5157.14 --> 5159.14] Jesus Christ my living hope. -[5159.14 --> 5169.98] When came the morning that sealed the promise, your buried body began to breathe. -[5169.98 --> 5182.72] Out of the silence, the roaring lion declared the grave had no claim on me. -[5182.72 --> 5195.46] Then came the morning that sealed the promise, your buried body began to breathe. -[5195.46 --> 5208.52] Out of the silence, the roaring lion declared the grave has no claim on me. -[5208.52 --> 5209.52] Jesus Christ my living hope. -[5209.52 --> 5211.52] Jesus Christ my living hope. -[5211.52 --> 5213.52] Jesus Christ my living hope. -[5213.52 --> 5222.66] Hallelujah, praise the one who set me free -[5222.66 --> 5229.22] Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me -[5229.22 --> 5232.56] You have broken every chain -[5232.56 --> 5235.76] There's salvation in your name -[5235.76 --> 5241.82] Jesus Christ, my living heart -[5241.82 --> 5248.84] Hallelujah, praise the one who set me free -[5248.84 --> 5255.32] Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me -[5255.32 --> 5258.82] You have broken every chain -[5258.82 --> 5261.78] There's salvation in your name -[5261.78 --> 5267.90] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[5267.90 --> 5273.92] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[5273.92 --> 5280.92] Oh God, you are my living hope -[5280.92 --> 5305.68] As we go, we go unified in the power of God, in the gospel of Jesus Christ, and we go with his blessing. -[5305.68 --> 5310.26] And so receive the blessing of our God for the journey of faith ahead. -[5310.26 --> 5315.24] God, go before you to lead you -[5315.24 --> 5318.28] God, go behind you to protect you -[5318.28 --> 5320.88] God, go beneath you to support you -[5320.88 --> 5323.46] God, go beside you to befriend you -[5323.46 --> 5325.86] Do not be afraid -[5325.86 --> 5328.42] Let the blessing of God come upon you today -[5328.42 --> 5329.88] Do not be afraid -[5329.88 --> 5332.94] But go in peace and unity -[5332.94 --> 5335.72] To love and serve the Lord -[5335.72 --> 5337.36] Amen -[5337.90 --> 5340.76] Amen -[5340.76 --> 5343.80] Amen -[5343.80 --> 5344.94] You -[5344.94 --> 5345.04] Good -[5345.04 --> 5345.36] Amen -[5345.36 --> 5346.26] Jesus -[5346.26 --> 5346.28] Amen -[5346.30 --> 5346.82] Amen -[5346.82 --> 5354.48] Amen -[5354.48 --> 5359.40] Amen -[5359.40 --> 5360.04] Amen -[5360.04 --> 5365.54] Amen -[5365.54 --> 5366.48] Amen -[5366.48 --> 5368.48] Amen. -[5396.48 --> 5398.48] Amen. -[5426.48 --> 5428.48] Amen. -[5456.48 --> 5458.48] Amen. -[5486.48 --> 5488.48] Amen. -[5516.48 --> 5518.48] Amen. -[5546.48 --> 5548.48] Amen. -[5576.48 --> 5578.48] Amen. -[5606.48 --> 5608.48] Amen. -[5636.48 --> 5638.48] Amen. -[5666.48 --> 5668.48] Amen. -[5696.48 --> 5698.48] Amen. -[5726.48 --> 5728.48] Amen. -[5756.48 --> 5758.48] Amen. -[5786.48 --> 5788.48] Amen. -[5816.48 --> 5818.48] Amen. -[5846.48 --> 5848.48] Amen. -[5876.48 --> 5878.48] Amen. -[5906.48 --> 5908.48] Amen. -[5936.48 --> 5938.48] Amen. -[5966.48 --> 5968.48] Amen. -[5996.48 --> 5998.48] Amen. -[6026.48 --> 6028.48] Amen. -[6056.48 --> 6058.48] Amen. -[6086.48 --> 6088.48] Amen. -[6116.48 --> 6118.48] Amen. -[6146.48 --> 6148.48] Amen. -[6176.48 --> 6178.48] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship October 10, 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship October 10, 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index e3586c4a094fcfd139a37e20a5ba4aed348c7e9c..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship October 10, 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,145 +0,0 @@ -• Adoption and being called one's own by God -• The nature of God as a loving Father who sees and chooses individuals -• Gratitude for salvation and freedom from captivity -• Praise and worship of God's majesty, beauty, and creation -• Singing and declaring Christ magnified in the speaker's life -• Thanksgiving worship service -• Young Adults group: Tri-Church tournament and care packages for students away at school -• Church announcements and encouragement to bring home the trophy in the tournament -• Care package gifts for university/college students -• Invitation to participate in care package gift-giving -• Greeting from God's presence -• The congregation sings hymns and praises God's holiness and glory -• Giving of gifts is discussed as a way to show gratitude to God for His blessings -• The Langley Food Bank is mentioned as the recipient of today's special offering, with a goal of effecting lasting transformation in the lives of clients -• A scripture reading from Matthew 19:21 is referenced -• Next week's offering will be for the church budget and refugee chaplain Dina Nikolai -• The congregation sings hymns again after the scripture reading -• A discussion about Thanksgiving weekend and family dinners takes place -• Discussion of a Thanksgiving video -• Family members expressing gratitude for various things such as family, food, pets, school, sports, and Jesus -• A blessing is led by an adult -• Announcement of upcoming prayer session in church for families affected by COVID-19 -• Celebration of a recent wedding at the church -• Acknowledging God's sovereignty and asking for His presence -• Praying for peace and stability in Afghanistan, particularly for women and children -• Asking for wisdom and calm to prevail in the conflict between China and Taiwan -• Requesting healing, peace, and power from God in response to COVID-19 and its economic effects -• Thanking God for the work of the Langley Food Bank and praying for the community's needs -• Praying for the mission and ministry of the church at Langley Emmanuel -• Blessing and thanksgiving for various ministry opportunities -• Prayer for hope and faith when not seeing God's work clearly -• Blessings for individuals and relationships, including a wedding celebration -• Mourning and prayer for those struggling with death, including the loss of loved ones -• Prayers for healing and comfort in times of struggle and hardship, particularly during COVID-19 -• Prayers for peace, strength, and provision -• Update on Martin's health: stable and recovering from COVID-19 -• Celebration of Patrick's recovery and the family's gratitude -• Prayers for those affected by COVID-19 within the church community -• Requests for healing for individuals with COVID-19 and their families -• Intercession for healthcare workers and their unique challenges during this time -• Prayers for caregivers in long-term care homes and hospitals -• Requesting God's guidance and truth be spoken to the congregation -• Asking for understanding and growth in faith and knowledge of Jesus Christ -• Continuing a series on 1 Peter, specifically discussing being born again into a living hope -• Introduction to a Bible study written by Pastor Kevin and others -• The book of 1 Peter is addressed to Christians living outside of a Christian culture -• Commentary writing on 1 Peter has changed over the past few decades as society has shifted from a post-Christian to pagan culture -• Many people identify as "spiritual but not religious," which is a fundamentally pagan idea -• A Bible study based on 1 Peter is available for church members to go through at their own pace -• The main theme of the series is living as exiles in a pagan land, and Jesus is presented as our inheritance. -• Definition of the word "pagan" and its origins in Latin -• Comparison to modern-day derogatory terms like "redneck," "hick," or "country bumpkin" -• Discussion of how early Christians used the term "pagan" to describe those who did not recognize a transcendent sovereign God -• Explanation of paganism as recognizing spiritual forces as part of the natural world and able to affect one's life -• Discussion of modern-day cultural context where people are spiritual but not religious, citing an example of someone identifying as a pagan witch -• The discussion begins with the notion of living in a "pagan" world, specifically referencing the influence of social media platforms like TikTok on younger generations. -• The concept of being an "exile" is introduced as a way to identify with living in a foreign culture that is not one's own. -• The passage from 1 Peter 1:13-25 is read and discussed, focusing on the themes of living out one's faith as an obedient child, being holy, and reverent fear in a pagan world. -• The idea of "living out" a living hope that comes by the living word is emphasized as a key concept for understanding Christian life. -• The concept of redemption through the blood of Christ -• The imperishable nature of faith and hope in God -• The fleeting nature of earthly things compared to the enduring word of God -• The relationship between hope, living, and one's heart -• The idea that one's actions reveal what they truly hope for -• The speaker discusses the concept of hope in different situations, such as poverty, war, and personal struggles. -• Hope is often placed in external sources or people, such as education, a spouse, career success, or technology. -• In times of crisis, people may look for someone or something to rescue them from their circumstances. -• The speaker notes that these actions are not inherently bad and can be beneficial. -• However, the focus shifts towards being one's own hope, rather than relying solely on external sources. -• Marriage and community are good things -• Hope in created goods can lead to idolatry -• When a good goal becomes the ultimate goal, it can become an idol -• The creator is exchanged for a piece of creation -• Idolatry is defined as exchanging truth about God for a lie and worshipping created things instead of the creator -• The cultural influence of post-Christian Western individuals and cultures -• The rise of therapeutic culture as an expression of expressive individualism -• The prioritization of experience over rational consistency and feeling over thinking -• The impact of Buddhist ideas, such as mindfulness and karma, on Christian institutions -• The increasing popularity of spirituality and astrology among younger generations -• The opposite of hope is fear -• Fear of the unknown drives people to try and predict or control the future -• People attempt to increase security in the present to lessen the impact of the unknown -• In ancient times, ensuring a good future was done by pleasing gods or a higher power -• Many religious and irreligious worldviews aim to minimize fear by providing a sense of security and meaning -• A proper understanding of fear is that it's an appropriate response to God's mercy and justice -• Peter's epistle emphasizes living with "reverent fear" as exiles, not being controlled by fear of others. -• The speaker discusses a type of fear that is not driven by anxiety or dominance, but rather reverence and respect. -• They differentiate this kind of fear from the fear that dominates modern society. -• The speaker references the Bible and 1 John 4:18 to support their points. -• They acknowledge that many people live in fear, even if they don't admit it to themselves. -• The speaker suggests that people are seeking peace and power, often finding it in places like paganism or in Jesus Christ. -• A woman is quoted as saying that people will find either witchcraft or Jesus, with the latter offering a different kind of fulfillment. -• Fear vs. hope in the face of an uncertain future -• The role of hope in determining one's actions and purpose in life -• Knowing God's sovereignty over history gives hope for the future -• Hope is demonstrated through holiness in one's present actions -• Paganism and other worldviews offer rewards for certain behaviors, but not based on a relationship with God -• The difference between Christianity, the gospel, and the Bible -• Redemption from empty way of life to precious blood of Christ -• Power and hope in God through Jesus' death and resurrection -• Definition of power as revealed in weakness and willingness to serve -• Examples of this power in everyday actions and humility towards others -• Holiness being set apart in ways that don't make sense to the world -• The speaker's life makes sense to people who know Jesus, but not those who don't -• A missionary named Elliot Clark shared a story about his experience in Southeast Asia with a man named Hassan, a Muslim -• Hassan was initially trained with assumptions about what Christians believe and had preconceived notions of Christianity -• Elliot and Hassan had coffee together several years later and engaged in a two-hour conversation about their beliefs -• The conversation allowed Hassan to learn more accurately what Christians believe, and he asked why Elliot didn't share this information earlier. -• Reflecting on past interactions and learning from fear -• Recognizing a greater fear, the fear of God, as a source of hope and holiness -• The importance of reverence for God in guiding faith and actions -• Purifying oneself through obedience to truth and developing sincere love for others -• Being a witness to a divided world by genuinely loving one another from the heart -• The importance of loving one another from the heart as a church -• The church's need to thrive in a world that is deeply divided -• Studying the early church for guidance on how to love and live together -• The transformative power of God's word in the lives of believers -• The enduring nature of God's word, which brings living hope and holiness -• The call to live out the word of God and experience true life and love -• The culture around us affects our lives and it's time to change the air we breathe by letting God's word come into us. -• Jesus' experience in the wilderness after baptism shows how he resisted Satan's temptations by quoting scripture. -• Quoting God's living and enduring word can help defeat temptations and give peace and power. -• Letting God's word be the basis of our lives brings inner peace, power, and a connection to Jesus. -• Living a life of hope and holiness transformed and sustained by the living Word -• Praying to hear God's voice and be sustained in their journeys of faith and faithfulness -• Sharing stories of love that led Jesus to the cross for them -• Being raised victorious with Christ and sent out in peace and power of truth -• Praising Allah and singing hymns about eternal life, heaven, and the works of grace -• Shouting out against sin and hell and standing on the promise of God's reign -• Gathering together as a church family to be encountered by God at the table -• The Lord's Supper as a reminder of Jesus' body and blood -• Invitation to participate in the sacrament, regardless of location -• Precautions for COVID-19 during distribution of the elements -• Reflection on God's presence and power in all things -• Prayer and blessing at the end of the service -• Heavenly banquet in the eternal kingdom to come -• Living and working to God's praise and glory -• God's presence and protection -• Overcoming fear and seeing change -• The power of God's name in darkness and chaos -• Holy Spirit's guidance and awakening the church -• Believing in the coming change and light -• Use of names as a source of power -• Influence and authority held by certain individuals -• Desire for boundaries or limits in relationships \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship October 10, 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship October 10, 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2e7915b6a1eb23e9ac6be51f9266e90f35ba5e50..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship October 10, 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2952 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 3.28] Oh, Father. -[6.14 --> 12.88] Now I am yours, a former captive free. -[16.56 --> 22.00] Adopted, called your own, your family. -[22.00 --> 32.08] Now I am yours, a former captive free. -[32.84 --> 35.00] Thank you, thank you. -[36.12 --> 41.24] Adopted, called your own, your family. -[41.24 --> 51.32] Now I am yours, a former captive free. -[54.76 --> 60.46] Adopted, called your own, your family. -[63.46 --> 70.52] Now I am yours, a former captive free. -[71.24 --> 79.58] Oh, adopt, called your own, your family. -[82.70 --> 84.88] You are a father. -[87.68 --> 92.28] You are the God who sees. -[92.28 --> 100.24] Moved by compassion, you chose to be. -[100.24 --> 104.58] You are like no other. -[107.00 --> 109.58] Perfect in majesty. -[111.94 --> 113.66] Beauty's creator. -[113.66 --> 119.00] You're the God who sees. -[119.00 --> 122.74] You are the God who sees. -[122.74 --> 124.00] You are the God who sees. -[124.00 --> 124.94] You chose to be. -[124.94 --> 128.88] Now I am yours, a former captive free. -[128.88 --> 129.36] Yeah. -[129.36 --> 131.08] Oh, yeah. -[131.08 --> 137.18] Adopt and call your own, your family. -[140.48 --> 147.28] Now I am yours, a former captive free. -[150.88 --> 156.38] Adopt and call your own, your family. -[156.38 --> 161.78] You are the Father. -[164.36 --> 168.38] You are the God who sees. -[169.56 --> 171.32] Move by compassion. -[173.22 --> 176.92] You've chosen me. -[179.00 --> 181.20] You're like no other. -[181.20 --> 187.62] You're perfect in majesty. -[188.36 --> 190.56] Beauty's creator. -[193.10 --> 196.20] You've chosen me. -[196.20 --> 204.10] You've chosen. -[204.74 --> 207.94] You could have chosen a lot of things. -[208.40 --> 209.84] You chose me. -[211.44 --> 214.28] You could have had a lot of things. -[214.88 --> 216.46] You chose me. -[217.46 --> 218.20] You chose me. -[218.20 --> 219.10] You chose me. -[219.10 --> 220.52] Thank you, Jesus. -[220.82 --> 223.30] Who am I that you would choose? -[223.60 --> 225.38] I thank you, Father. -[226.80 --> 229.48] Oh, thank you, Father. -[230.84 --> 236.44] You chose us before the beginning of time. -[237.14 --> 238.90] You chose me. -[238.90 --> 247.04] You called us your own sons and daughters. -[251.18 --> 253.34] Now we are yours. -[254.16 --> 256.04] Oh, we are yours. -[256.92 --> 258.96] We are yours, Jesus. -[259.96 --> 261.68] Oh, we are yours, Father. -[261.68 --> 264.72] You purchased us at a high cost. -[265.34 --> 267.40] You've chosen me. -[270.14 --> 271.26] Come on, let's just say that again. -[271.34 --> 273.38] Now I am yours, a captive free. -[275.44 --> 281.68] And now I am yours, a former captive free. -[282.52 --> 284.14] Thank you, Father. -[284.14 --> 293.80] Come on, let's just declare it out. -[293.80 --> 293.84] Come on, let's just declare it out. -[294.90 --> 300.80] And now I am yours, a former captive free. -[302.08 --> 302.36] Oh. -[304.42 --> 304.80] And I am yours, a former captive free. -[304.80 --> 308.80] And I am yours, a former captive free. -[308.80 --> 309.80] Oh. -[309.80 --> 312.80] Oh, we are yours. -[312.80 --> 320.46] Now I am yours, a former captive free. -[320.46 --> 321.14] Oh. -[321.14 --> 322.94] Oh, we are yours. -[322.94 --> 323.64] Oh. -[323.64 --> 328.90] A dark day call your own, yours ever. -[328.90 --> 331.36] Oh, we are yours. -[331.36 --> 332.86] Oh. -[332.86 --> 338.54] And now I am yours, a former captive free. -[338.54 --> 339.80] Oh. -[339.80 --> 340.50] Oh. -[340.50 --> 353.62] You are a father. -[353.62 --> 361.06] You are the God who sings. -[361.54 --> 363.24] Moved by compassion. -[366.16 --> 368.48] You chose me. -[368.48 --> 373.48] You're like no other. -[375.76 --> 379.56] You're perfect in majesty. -[380.74 --> 382.40] Beauty's creator. -[385.34 --> 387.48] You chose me. -[389.48 --> 391.48] Beauty's creator. -[393.48 --> 396.48] You chose me. -[398.48 --> 400.64] cancelled. -[405.82 --> 406.64] Beauty's creator. -[406.64 --> 407.70] Water. -[410.16 --> 411.04] Beauty's creator. -[411.30 --> 414.30] b -[415.06 --> 417.42] beauty's creator. -[417.42 --> 419.00] U.S. -[419.00 --> 432.26] We're creation suddenly articulate -[432.26 --> 439.58] With a thousand tongues to lift one cry -[439.58 --> 447.46] Then from north to south and east to west -[447.46 --> 452.50] We'd hear Christ be magnified -[452.50 --> 462.26] Were the hold of echoing His imminent -[462.26 --> 469.24] His name would burst from sea and sky -[469.24 --> 477.48] And from riddles to the mountain tops -[477.48 --> 482.38] We'd hear Christ be magnified -[482.38 --> 486.28] Here we go now -[486.28 --> 487.56] Sing up! -[488.28 --> 492.42] And so Christ be magnified -[492.42 --> 496.04] Let His praise rise -[496.04 --> 501.08] Christ be magnified in me -[501.08 --> 505.76] And so Christ be magnified -[505.76 --> 509.10] From the altar of my life -[509.10 --> 514.88] Christ be magnified in me -[514.88 --> 525.64] When every creature finds its inmost melody -[525.64 --> 531.84] And every human heart is native -[531.84 --> 532.58] God -[532.58 --> 537.78] Of anyone in wrath -[537.78 --> 540.76] Should Him or praise -[540.76 --> 545.80] Will see Christ be magnified -[545.80 --> 547.80] Yes, this is what we're made to do, right? -[547.80 --> 550.30] We give you praise, Jesus -[550.30 --> 551.52] Come on! -[551.52 --> 556.02] And so Christ be magnified -[556.02 --> 559.30] Let His praise rise -[559.30 --> 564.10] Christ be magnified in me -[564.10 --> 569.14] And so Christ be magnified -[569.14 --> 570.14] And so Christ be magnified -[570.14 --> 572.14] From the altar of my life -[572.14 --> 577.14] Christ be magnified in me -[577.14 --> 581.14] I wanna be whole -[581.14 --> 583.14] I wanna be sanctified, Jesus -[583.14 --> 585.14] I wanna be sanctified, Jesus -[585.14 --> 587.14] Burning ye, Jesus -[587.14 --> 589.14] Burning ye, Jesus -[589.14 --> 594.18] I won't bow to idols -[594.18 --> 597.18] I'll stand strong and worship you -[597.18 --> 600.68] And if it puts me in the fire -[600.68 --> 604.18] I'll rejoice, cause you're there too -[604.18 --> 606.18] I won't be... -[606.18 --> 608.18] I won't be... -[608.18 --> 610.18] I won't be... -[610.18 --> 612.18] I won't be... -[612.18 --> 614.18] I won't be... -[614.18 --> 616.18] I won't be... -[616.18 --> 625.46] Hindi,an -[625.46 --> 626.28] talking once -[626.28 --> 628.50] deja pym Sweat -[628.50 --> 631.02] Já cisk -[631.02 --> 632.78] Das kinn -[632.78 --> 634.30] him -[634.30 --> 635.86] Yang -[635.86 --> 638.54] Beз -[638.54 --> 640.50] isini -[642.50 --> 642.70] Las -[642.70 --> 644.98] Prạt -[644.98 --> 645.98] Amen. -[674.98 --> 676.98] Amen. -[704.98 --> 706.98] Amen. -[734.98 --> 736.98] Amen. -[764.98 --> 766.98] Amen. -[794.98 --> 796.98] Amen. -[824.98 --> 830.70] As we celebrate Thanksgiving together, we're going to do that here with a worship service. -[830.88 --> 837.00] And so everyone is invited to participate in our worship tomorrow at 10 a.m. here in -[837.00 --> 838.28] person or online. -[838.40 --> 846.36] You can join us in that way as we give thanks to God for his many blessings and also as -[846.36 --> 850.04] we trust in his provision for the future. -[850.76 --> 854.90] And so even if this past year has not seemed like one full of blessing, -[855.48 --> 861.94] we come in faith, trusting that God will provide as we go into the remainder of this year. -[863.16 --> 866.76] Also, there is an announcement for the Young Adults group. -[867.64 --> 874.28] Young Adults, you have the final event of the Tri-Church tournament coming up next week, Saturday. -[874.98 --> 879.58] And so that's going to be a corn maze, and Josh wants you to know that it's going to be muddy. -[880.76 --> 888.12] And so wear appropriate footwear and pants and the like, and be prepared to do that. -[888.16 --> 891.22] As far as I know, our church is in second place right now, -[891.34 --> 894.44] and I just want to encourage you to bring home that trophy. -[895.66 --> 900.74] We need to start this Tri-Church tournament thing off with a win. -[902.38 --> 907.20] Also, for the Young Adults, and this is for everyone, but connected to the Young Adults ministry, -[907.20 --> 914.22] again this year, we want to be able to send care packages out to the young adults in our midst -[914.22 --> 919.54] who are away at university, or college, or in trade school, -[919.60 --> 922.60] and so have left our community here and gone somewhere else. -[922.60 --> 927.60] We want to bless them with a care package gift as exam season approaches. -[928.68 --> 935.54] Now, it seems early for that, but we want to mail them, and so we have to take some time to do that. -[935.62 --> 941.66] And so please, either as a family or an individual or a care group or something like that, -[941.76 --> 948.46] consider how you can bless one of our young adults who is away at school with a feeling of family. -[948.46 --> 954.62] And so we send a shoebox-ish sized package to them full of about $50 worth of stuff, -[954.80 --> 960.32] although if our last attempt at this $50 was a suggestion and you all just ignored it. -[961.10 --> 963.42] And so we're grateful for your blessing in that way. -[963.46 --> 967.50] But if you want to participate in that, it's going to be first come, first serve. -[968.06 --> 970.34] And so talk to Josh Chamberlain. -[970.40 --> 973.46] You can email him or text him or DM him on Instagram, -[973.46 --> 977.54] and he will get you in the queue for that. -[978.94 --> 981.86] Standing together, we are the church family of God, -[981.90 --> 985.84] and we come to worship him as he gathers us in his presence. -[985.94 --> 991.60] So I invite you to receive, then, the greeting of our good God. -[993.10 --> 996.76] Grace, mercy, and peace to you. -[997.20 --> 1001.12] From God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son and our Savior, -[1001.12 --> 1004.60] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[1005.30 --> 1005.94] Everyone said? -[1006.94 --> 1007.46] Amen. -[1010.94 --> 1013.60] In Exodus 15, we read, -[1014.56 --> 1018.42] I will sing to the Lord, for he is highly exalted. -[1019.28 --> 1021.48] The Lord is my strength and my defense. -[1022.12 --> 1023.98] He has become my salvation. -[1025.20 --> 1027.46] He is my God, and I will praise him, -[1027.68 --> 1030.80] my Father's God, and I will exalt him. -[1031.92 --> 1033.64] Who among gods is like you, Lord? -[1034.72 --> 1035.78] Who is like you? -[1036.58 --> 1041.24] Majestic in holiness, awesome in glory, working wonders? -[1042.84 --> 1046.58] Let's sing together of the goodness and greatness of our God. -[1046.58 --> 1047.04] flute andancer home. -[1047.04 --> 1054.96] incoming -[1054.96 --> 1055.42] ogday -[1055.42 --> 1056.42] Amen. -[1085.42 --> 1087.42] Amen. -[1115.42 --> 1117.42] Amen. -[1145.42 --> 1147.42] Amen. -[1175.42 --> 1177.42] Amen. -[1205.42 --> 1207.42] Amen. -[1235.42 --> 1237.42] Amen. -[1265.42 --> 1267.42] Amen. -[1295.42 --> 1296.42] Amen. -[1325.42 --> 1327.42] Amen. -[1355.42 --> 1357.42] Amen. -[1385.42 --> 1387.42] Amen. -[1415.42 --> 1417.42] Amen. -[1445.42 --> 1447.42] Amen. -[1475.42 --> 1477.42] Amen. -[1505.42 --> 1507.42] Amen. -[1535.42 --> 1536.42] Amen. -[1536.42 --> 1537.42] Amen. -[1537.42 --> 1538.42] Amen. -[1538.42 --> 1539.42] Amen. -[1539.42 --> 1540.42] Amen. -[1540.42 --> 1541.42] Amen. -[1541.42 --> 1542.42] Amen. -[1542.42 --> 1544.42] Amen. -[1544.42 --> 1545.42] Amen. -[1545.42 --> 1547.42] Amen. -[1547.42 --> 1549.42] Amen. -[1549.42 --> 1552.42] Amen. -[1552.42 --> 1557.42] Amen. -[1557.42 --> 1563.32] We continue our worship by the giving of our gifts in gratitude with us for our -[1563.32 --> 1568.06] in gratitude and thankfulness to the Lord for his blessings. -[1569.02 --> 1574.32] For the church budget, which covers the administration of the church and its ministries, -[1574.90 --> 1578.54] and the special offering today is for the Langley Food Bank. -[1579.40 --> 1584.80] The Langley Food Bank is a very effective voice in preaching the gospel to the poor -[1584.80 --> 1590.50] through the good works of its volunteers because actions speak louder than words. -[1590.50 --> 1596.04] Actions will often create the pathway for the words to be heard. -[1596.90 --> 1601.58] God's call to the church is to identify with the poor, the weak, the vulnerable, -[1601.94 --> 1605.70] and to invest our time, energy, and money into serving them. -[1606.52 --> 1614.40] The long-term objective of the Langley Food Bank is to effect lasting transformation in the lives of the clients, -[1614.70 --> 1619.20] to bring them from a life of poverty to a life of productivity and hope. -[1619.20 --> 1627.78] They recognize the absolute need for the intervention and work of the Holy Spirit as crucial to this process, -[1628.28 --> 1635.88] as well as the vital necessity for a new and ongoing relationship with God the Father through Jesus Christ, his Son. -[1637.02 --> 1644.36] The Langley Food Bank Society operates two food banks, one here in Langley and one in Aldergrove. -[1644.36 --> 1650.54] The offering for the Thanksgiving service tomorrow will also be for the Langley Food Bank, -[1650.94 --> 1657.62] and you are encouraged to bring items to church that have been listed as most needed by the food bank -[1657.62 --> 1662.28] in the lists provided in the bulletins over the last two to three weeks. -[1662.28 --> 1666.44] Jesus answered the young man, -[1666.44 --> 1671.54] If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, -[1672.06 --> 1673.80] and you will have treasure in heaven. -[1674.50 --> 1675.90] Then come, follow me. -[1676.52 --> 1678.34] Matthew 19, verse 21. -[1679.72 --> 1686.16] Next week's offering is for the church budget and refugee chaplain, Dina Nikolai. -[1686.16 --> 1701.76] To their generation, Dina Nikolai 1999, Dina Nikolai, Dina Nik Virgin coseancy, Dina Nikolai vice Cinema Peace -[1701.76 --> 1705.68] みたいな Jew Covid館uni US kingdom. -[1706.02 --> 1709.98] In 2013 Thessма 조د, here general chbags and military chaplain, Dina Nikolai. -[1709.98 --> 1739.96] I will sing. -[1739.98 --> 1769.96] I will sing. -[1769.98 --> 1799.96] I will sing. -[1799.98 --> 1829.96] I will sing. -[1829.96 --> 1832.74] Your goodness is running out. -[1832.88 --> 1834.96] It's running out to me. -[1836.10 --> 1838.96] Your goodness is running out. -[1839.26 --> 1841.38] It's running out to me. -[1841.38 --> 1846.38] Your goodness is running out. -[1846.38 --> 1847.38] It's running out to me. -[1847.38 --> 1848.38] I will sing. -[1848.38 --> 1849.38] I will sing. -[1849.38 --> 1853.38] I will sing. -[1853.38 --> 1854.38] I will sing. -[1854.38 --> 1855.38] I will sing. -[1855.38 --> 1857.36] Our Father has come -[1857.36 --> 1859.94] And we can experience -[1860.30 --> 1864.96] A love was Apple -[1865.24 --> 1867.64] umer vein -[1867.64 --> 1870.98] Our Father has come -[1871.08 --> 1873.36] And I can if it could -[1873.36 --> 1876.98] And we can experience -[1877.46 --> 1879.56] etc. -[1881.00 --> 1883.44] Our Father has come -[1883.96 --> 1885.32] And I can experience -[1885.32 --> 1887.32] Amen. -[1915.32 --> 1917.32] Amen. -[1945.32 --> 1947.32] Amen. -[1947.32 --> 1949.32] Amen. -[1975.32 --> 1977.32] Come on, everybody. -[1985.32 --> 1987.32] How's everyone doing this morning? -[1987.32 --> 1990.32] It's a little bit of a special weekend this weekend. -[1990.32 --> 1991.32] Does anybody know what it's about? -[1991.32 --> 1993.32] What's up? -[1993.32 --> 1995.32] Thanksgiving. -[1995.32 --> 1999.32] Is everybody having a family kind of dinner today or this weekend? -[1999.32 --> 2000.32] Yeah? -[2000.32 --> 2002.32] You did yesterday? -[2002.32 --> 2003.32] Right on. -[2003.32 --> 2008.32] So this morning we're going to do a video and we got someone in the church, -[2008.32 --> 2011.32] I actually don't even know who, put together a nice video for Thanksgiving. -[2011.32 --> 2016.32] And I want to see if you guys watch closely and see if you show up on that video. -[2016.32 --> 2017.32] Can you do that? -[2017.32 --> 2018.32] And then after that we'll do the blessing. -[2018.32 --> 2019.32] Sound good? -[2019.32 --> 2020.32] Let's do it. -[2020.32 --> 2021.32] Let's roll it. -[2021.32 --> 2022.32] Let's go. -[2022.32 --> 2023.32] Thank you. -[2023.32 --> 2024.32] More fun. -[2024.32 --> 2034.32] I'm thankful for family food and fields. -[2034.32 --> 2035.32] We're great. -[2035.32 --> 2036.32] We're thankful. -[2036.32 --> 2037.32] Thank you. -[2037.32 --> 2039.32] We're being so grateful for our kids. -[2039.32 --> 2044.32] I'm thankful to God for sports and sports. -[2044.32 --> 2051.32] I'm thankful for my family and pets, going to school, and cream cheese. -[2051.32 --> 2053.32] Mmmmm! -[2053.32 --> 2059.32] I'm thankful for buddies, Lego, Mommy, Daddy, and my school. -[2059.32 --> 2061.32] Thank God for my family. -[2061.32 --> 2065.32] I thank my God for my life. -[2065.32 --> 2070.32] I'm thankful to God for my family and my cat. -[2070.32 --> 2075.32] I'm thankful for God so that I can hug my plants. -[2075.32 --> 2081.32] And I'm thankful for that I can hug my, I love my Jesus. -[2081.32 --> 2089.32] I am thankful for my family and my friends and my pets. -[2089.32 --> 2093.32] I am also thankful for food and water. -[2095.32 --> 2101.32] I'm thankful for God for going to handwetting. -[2101.32 --> 2105.32] I thank you and show my mommy. -[2105.32 --> 2108.32] And what else are you thankful for? -[2108.32 --> 2112.32] I'm thankful for everything in the sky. -[2112.32 --> 2122.32] I'm thankful for my family and when I do karate. -[2122.32 --> 2126.32] I'm thankful for my friends at school and for reading. -[2126.32 --> 2132.32] I'm thankful for my family and for hockey. -[2132.32 --> 2136.32] I'm thankful for both airplanes and trains. -[2136.32 --> 2137.32] Mommy! -[2137.32 --> 2138.32] Whoa! -[2138.32 --> 2139.32] Kay! -[2139.32 --> 2140.32] You hate mommy! -[2140.32 --> 2141.32] Mommy! -[2141.32 --> 2142.32] Papa! -[2142.32 --> 2143.32] Grandpa! -[2143.32 --> 2144.32] Grandpa! -[2144.32 --> 2145.32] Grandma! -[2145.32 --> 2146.32] Papa! -[2146.32 --> 2147.32] Papa! -[2147.32 --> 2148.32] Grandma! -[2148.32 --> 2149.32] Dad! -[2149.32 --> 2163.32] I'm thankful for food and for my mom and I am thankful for the world. -[2163.32 --> 2164.32] I'm thankful for my puppy Theo. -[2164.32 --> 2165.32] He's my little doggy. -[2165.32 --> 2166.32] All right. -[2166.32 --> 2167.32] That was fantastic. -[2167.32 --> 2169.32] Now we can stand up everyone and we're gonna do the blessing right now. -[2169.32 --> 2174.32] We can face, let's face that way. -[2174.32 --> 2175.32] All right. -[2175.32 --> 2176.32] Hands ready. -[2176.32 --> 2177.32] The Lord. -[2177.32 --> 2178.32] And also with you. -[2178.32 --> 2179.32] All right. -[2179.32 --> 2180.32] Let's go. -[2180.32 --> 2181.32] Go. -[2181.32 --> 2182.32] And go. -[2182.32 --> 2183.32] Thank you for the cause of the story of the world. -[2183.32 --> 2184.32] In the name of God. -[2184.32 --> 2185.32] Thank you. -[2185.32 --> 2186.32] I'm thankful for the Lord. -[2186.32 --> 2187.32] I'm thankful for the love of God. -[2187.32 --> 2189.32] There's a great day of the love of God. -[2189.32 --> 2190.32] All right. -[2190.32 --> 2191.32] That was fantastic. -[2191.32 --> 2194.32] Now we can stand up everyone and we're gonna do the blessing right now. -[2194.32 --> 2195.32] We can face, let's face that way. -[2195.32 --> 2196.80] and also with you. -[2225.32 --> 2234.06] It was such a lovable thing. -[2236.56 --> 2239.68] Everybody, oh, apparently it is a thing. -[2241.88 --> 2247.20] We are going to come to God in our church family prayer together, -[2248.20 --> 2251.26] and I'm going to lead us in that. -[2251.26 --> 2258.58] And in addition to some of the things that you've already seen in the e-bulletin, -[2258.66 --> 2262.98] if you receive that, we are going to pray. -[2264.30 --> 2269.36] Specifically, there are a number of families who are currently -[2269.36 --> 2272.12] and directly being touched by COVID, -[2272.58 --> 2277.48] and some of them have chosen to keep that anonymous, -[2277.70 --> 2280.34] and of course we understand that, but we want to pray for that. -[2280.34 --> 2285.84] And we know that many of us here know who these people might be -[2285.84 --> 2288.56] and have that in our own families and life together. -[2288.68 --> 2293.24] And so being mindful of the struggles and the difficulties of all of that, -[2293.32 --> 2297.32] we want to lift those people up in our prayer together. -[2298.08 --> 2303.04] In addition to our prayer, we will be giving thanks with Frank and Sylvia -[2303.04 --> 2307.26] for the marriage of their daughter Cheryl to her now husband Kyle, -[2307.26 --> 2309.32] which took place in the church here on Friday, -[2309.42 --> 2312.94] and that's where you see these beautiful flowers are left over from that. -[2313.06 --> 2315.96] And so we celebrate with them, and we give thanks to God for that. -[2316.18 --> 2318.88] Would you join your heart with me in prayer together? -[2318.88 --> 2327.24] Holy God and Heavenly Father, -[2327.88 --> 2330.60] we come before you in prayer. -[2331.36 --> 2333.56] We come to you, -[2334.96 --> 2337.80] acknowledging that you alone are sovereign God, -[2337.94 --> 2340.98] that you alone rule o'er all the earth, -[2341.12 --> 2345.34] that by your word we live and move and have our being. -[2345.34 --> 2350.26] And so we come now asking you to speak that word, -[2350.40 --> 2352.92] asking you to be at work in the world, -[2353.10 --> 2356.32] asking you to meet us here -[2356.32 --> 2364.34] so that, Lord God, we can know your presence. -[2365.08 --> 2367.24] We can know your nearness. -[2367.24 --> 2373.56] God, we come into your presence as a people in great need. -[2374.30 --> 2376.34] We look around the world and we see -[2376.34 --> 2381.90] the seeming reign and rule of chaos and disorder. -[2383.98 --> 2388.84] See the challenges that exist to your sovereignty. -[2388.84 --> 2395.32] And so God, we pray for places like Afghanistan -[2395.32 --> 2399.62] and the struggle that is taking place there, -[2399.74 --> 2400.92] the Taliban in power, -[2401.10 --> 2402.88] and then also now conflicting with ISIS -[2402.88 --> 2405.68] and improvised explosive devices -[2405.68 --> 2408.86] going off in mosques and in markets. -[2409.72 --> 2414.10] We pray for the turmoil of the people who are living there, -[2414.20 --> 2416.68] asking that you would bring peace. -[2416.68 --> 2420.60] We pray, Lord God, for the measures -[2420.60 --> 2423.74] that we as global citizens have taken -[2423.74 --> 2428.14] to provide that with UN workers -[2428.14 --> 2430.96] and the presence on the ground. -[2431.14 --> 2435.56] We pray that you would provide a measure of stability. -[2437.66 --> 2439.66] And yet, God, we know that there will be an impact, -[2439.80 --> 2442.78] especially on women that live in Afghanistan. -[2442.78 --> 2446.70] And so we pray for them and for their safety -[2446.70 --> 2450.04] and their ability to thrive in society. -[2451.52 --> 2457.78] We pray, too, for the currently verbal -[2458.48 --> 2462.98] but also accelerating tensions of China and Taiwan. -[2463.84 --> 2467.66] Pray, Lord God, that cooler heads -[2467.66 --> 2470.00] and wisdom would prevail there -[2470.00 --> 2473.56] even as we hear the threats of violence. -[2475.10 --> 2478.92] Pray, Lord, that you would move in power -[2478.92 --> 2481.64] through different agents and agencies -[2481.64 --> 2486.06] to help restore peace and calm -[2486.06 --> 2487.70] and wisdom to that region. -[2487.70 --> 2493.84] Lord our God, as we come closer to home, -[2493.98 --> 2496.02] we know that we have our own struggles here, -[2496.06 --> 2497.54] not just with COVID -[2497.54 --> 2502.28] and the effects of that on the economy -[2502.28 --> 2503.04] and the lives. -[2503.16 --> 2504.48] And we hear stories of -[2504.48 --> 2509.04] even as the government releases job reports -[2509.04 --> 2511.72] that seem good and we've added more jobs -[2511.72 --> 2513.56] and we've returned to pre-pandemic levels -[2513.56 --> 2514.06] of employment. -[2514.58 --> 2516.74] We know that here on the ground -[2516.74 --> 2517.84] there is still impact, -[2518.02 --> 2520.54] that business people are talking about -[2520.54 --> 2521.90] how their businesses are affected, -[2522.00 --> 2524.30] their employees are not able to come in -[2524.30 --> 2526.96] or places have to shut down. -[2527.78 --> 2530.10] And so in the midst of all of this, Lord God, -[2530.18 --> 2533.42] we come to you asking for healing, -[2533.68 --> 2535.36] asking for peace, -[2535.36 --> 2538.36] asking that you would move in power. -[2538.36 --> 2544.10] Likewise, God, as we have received an offering here -[2544.10 --> 2545.38] for the Langley Food Bank, -[2545.48 --> 2546.76] we pray for their work. -[2546.98 --> 2548.84] We pray for our community -[2548.84 --> 2551.46] and those who rely on the food bank -[2551.46 --> 2553.00] and other social services -[2553.00 --> 2556.20] to provide just the bare necessities of life. -[2557.34 --> 2559.06] Pray that you would use us -[2559.06 --> 2561.88] in our relative wealth -[2561.88 --> 2563.56] and in our actual wealth -[2563.56 --> 2566.30] to provide and to come alongside -[2566.30 --> 2567.36] in those places. -[2567.36 --> 2570.70] And not just with gifts of our treasures -[2570.70 --> 2572.90] and our excess or abundance, -[2573.06 --> 2573.64] but Lord God, -[2573.76 --> 2577.78] with sacrificial presence and giving. -[2579.48 --> 2582.98] Allow us to reveal your kingdom come -[2582.98 --> 2585.66] and your kingdom coming here in Langley -[2585.66 --> 2587.92] and through that work in the world. -[2590.30 --> 2592.14] Father, we pray then for the mission -[2592.14 --> 2593.70] and ministry of our church -[2593.70 --> 2594.80] here at Langley Emmanuel. -[2594.80 --> 2597.60] We thank you for the running -[2597.60 --> 2599.50] and the starting of programs, -[2599.62 --> 2601.68] some of which haven't been running -[2601.68 --> 2602.88] for a couple of years -[2602.88 --> 2606.70] because of our pandemic response -[2606.70 --> 2608.10] and the realities around that. -[2608.16 --> 2609.24] We thank you that those things -[2609.24 --> 2611.58] are coming back and starting up. -[2611.68 --> 2615.58] And so we pray for the GEMS and Cadets programs. -[2615.72 --> 2617.78] We pray for the Children's Worship Times programs -[2617.78 --> 2619.12] and the Coffee Break ministries. -[2619.12 --> 2620.62] We pray, Lord God, -[2620.70 --> 2622.84] for different care groups -[2622.84 --> 2625.16] and the Seniors Alive group -[2625.16 --> 2627.60] and the Men's Meeting group. -[2627.80 --> 2630.50] We pray for all of these ministries and places, -[2630.70 --> 2631.92] all of these opportunities, -[2632.20 --> 2634.44] and there's so many, many more -[2634.44 --> 2635.94] that you have us doing, -[2636.38 --> 2637.70] asking that you would bless them, -[2638.66 --> 2639.04] keep them. -[2639.04 --> 2642.36] Father God, we give you thanks -[2642.36 --> 2643.16] for those times -[2643.16 --> 2644.72] that we can see you at work -[2644.72 --> 2646.00] in the world so clearly. -[2647.32 --> 2649.54] And we pray that you would use those times -[2649.54 --> 2652.10] to give us hope and faith -[2652.10 --> 2653.74] for when we cannot see, -[2655.02 --> 2656.78] that we might endure faithfully -[2656.78 --> 2660.42] even as we go forward blindly, -[2661.42 --> 2664.30] even as we now see through a glass darkly. -[2664.30 --> 2666.40] We pray that our response -[2666.40 --> 2669.84] would be intentional and devoted to you. -[2671.60 --> 2673.58] God, we give you thanks as well -[2673.58 --> 2675.12] with Frank and Sylvia -[2675.12 --> 2678.60] and the celebration of Cheryl and Kyle's wedding. -[2679.32 --> 2682.72] We pray that you would bless Cheryl and Kyle -[2682.72 --> 2683.56] in their marriage, -[2683.66 --> 2685.98] that you would bless Frank and Sylvia -[2685.98 --> 2686.90] and their family -[2686.90 --> 2689.08] and in the celebrations that can happen. -[2689.18 --> 2689.80] And Lord God, -[2689.86 --> 2691.78] that you would bless us all -[2691.78 --> 2693.88] in relationships -[2693.88 --> 2696.56] and the establishing of relationships -[2696.56 --> 2699.02] in our families and life together. -[2701.62 --> 2703.02] God, we know as well -[2703.02 --> 2705.44] that there are many struggles -[2705.44 --> 2707.24] in our community. -[2708.88 --> 2712.18] Today, we mourn with Joanne and Willie. -[2713.62 --> 2715.72] They are remembering -[2715.72 --> 2718.04] and struggling through the death -[2718.04 --> 2720.12] of their nephew, Ryan. -[2720.12 --> 2722.38] We know that he had -[2722.38 --> 2724.28] a long struggle with cancer, -[2724.92 --> 2726.68] that he was just 33 years old, -[2726.74 --> 2727.92] that he leaves behind a wife -[2727.92 --> 2728.88] and three young children. -[2729.98 --> 2731.90] We pray that you would be near to them -[2731.90 --> 2732.70] in their grief. -[2734.12 --> 2735.60] We thank you for their faith. -[2736.50 --> 2737.66] We thank you for the testimony -[2737.66 --> 2740.64] that we heard from Sonia. -[2741.42 --> 2742.76] But we pray, Lord God, -[2742.82 --> 2743.76] that you would continue -[2743.76 --> 2745.04] to draw near to them, -[2746.24 --> 2748.64] continue to gather them up -[2748.64 --> 2750.26] in your loving heart -[2750.26 --> 2751.18] in this time. -[2753.54 --> 2755.22] God, we continue in prayer -[2755.22 --> 2756.36] for the Spa family -[2756.36 --> 2758.34] as they too mourn -[2758.34 --> 2760.02] the loss of Deb. -[2761.14 --> 2762.08] We pray, Lord God, -[2762.20 --> 2764.28] for Peter and for the kids -[2764.28 --> 2765.56] and for their -[2765.56 --> 2767.72] now adjusting -[2767.72 --> 2769.58] to a new way -[2769.58 --> 2770.76] of life -[2770.76 --> 2772.00] and living together -[2772.00 --> 2772.92] without a wife, -[2773.04 --> 2774.06] without a mom. -[2774.06 --> 2776.78] God, some of us -[2776.78 --> 2777.54] can't imagine -[2777.54 --> 2779.00] the trials -[2779.00 --> 2779.94] and the difficulty -[2779.94 --> 2780.64] and the hardship -[2780.64 --> 2781.18] of that. -[2782.14 --> 2782.86] Some of us -[2782.86 --> 2783.94] know it all too well. -[2785.60 --> 2786.80] So we come together, -[2786.92 --> 2787.20] Lord God, -[2787.24 --> 2788.28] as a church family -[2788.28 --> 2790.20] asking that you would -[2790.20 --> 2791.70] draw us near, -[2791.82 --> 2792.94] asking that you would -[2792.94 --> 2795.14] bless those -[2795.14 --> 2796.24] who mourn, -[2797.24 --> 2798.56] that you would allow us -[2798.56 --> 2799.82] to mourn -[2799.82 --> 2801.14] with them together, -[2801.14 --> 2802.50] to enter into that -[2802.50 --> 2805.00] valley of the shadow -[2805.00 --> 2805.64] of death -[2805.64 --> 2806.66] together. -[2809.80 --> 2810.82] God, we want to pray -[2810.82 --> 2811.88] for those whom we know -[2811.88 --> 2812.56] who are -[2812.56 --> 2814.38] indeed struggling -[2814.38 --> 2815.56] with COVID, -[2815.72 --> 2816.30] especially those -[2816.30 --> 2817.34] who are in hospital. -[2817.50 --> 2818.18] We pray for -[2818.18 --> 2819.16] Martin, -[2819.48 --> 2820.16] Karen's dad, -[2820.24 --> 2820.84] as he remains -[2820.84 --> 2821.56] in the ICU -[2821.56 --> 2822.56] on life support. -[2824.32 --> 2825.16] God, it gets -[2825.16 --> 2828.34] hard when we don't -[2828.34 --> 2828.82] have answers -[2828.82 --> 2829.48] and when we don't -[2829.48 --> 2831.74] see treatment -[2831.74 --> 2832.16] working. -[2832.72 --> 2833.40] And so we pray -[2833.40 --> 2834.50] for your healing -[2834.50 --> 2835.56] in this circumstance. -[2835.82 --> 2836.36] We pray for -[2836.36 --> 2837.66] peace. -[2837.92 --> 2838.70] We pray for -[2838.70 --> 2839.60] your strength. -[2839.76 --> 2840.12] We pray, -[2840.34 --> 2840.74] Lord God, -[2840.82 --> 2842.06] that you would -[2842.06 --> 2843.32] provide what only -[2843.32 --> 2844.38] you can provide. -[2845.86 --> 2847.52] Even when we rely -[2847.52 --> 2848.96] on medical technologies, -[2849.14 --> 2849.98] even when we -[2849.98 --> 2851.30] have hope -[2851.30 --> 2852.28] in procedures, -[2852.50 --> 2853.40] we know that it is -[2853.40 --> 2854.38] you who work -[2854.38 --> 2855.48] in and through them. -[2855.56 --> 2856.60] And so work here -[2856.60 --> 2857.58] for Martin. -[2858.82 --> 2860.38] God, we know -[2860.38 --> 2861.18] that you can work -[2861.18 --> 2861.96] and so we give you -[2861.96 --> 2864.36] thanks in the life -[2864.36 --> 2865.20] of Patrick -[2865.20 --> 2865.96] that we have seen -[2865.96 --> 2866.46] that work -[2866.46 --> 2867.72] and his struggle -[2867.72 --> 2869.30] with COVID -[2869.30 --> 2870.96] and his hospitalization -[2870.96 --> 2872.62] and his many weeks -[2872.62 --> 2874.58] on the ventilator. -[2875.14 --> 2875.74] We thank you -[2875.74 --> 2876.32] and celebrate -[2876.32 --> 2877.02] with Sarah -[2877.02 --> 2877.88] and their family -[2877.88 --> 2878.92] the news -[2878.92 --> 2880.34] that he is now -[2880.34 --> 2880.86] stable -[2880.86 --> 2882.56] and in good care -[2882.56 --> 2884.08] and good spirits. -[2884.22 --> 2884.62] We pray, -[2884.88 --> 2885.28] Lord God, -[2885.36 --> 2887.18] for continued stories -[2887.18 --> 2887.92] like that. -[2889.04 --> 2889.58] Thank you -[2889.58 --> 2890.14] that his wife, -[2890.28 --> 2890.50] Kate, -[2890.62 --> 2891.32] was able to meet -[2891.32 --> 2891.68] with him -[2891.68 --> 2892.94] and to hold hands -[2892.94 --> 2893.30] with him -[2893.30 --> 2893.78] and to speak -[2893.78 --> 2894.18] with him. -[2895.30 --> 2895.88] And with Sarah, -[2895.98 --> 2896.22] God, -[2896.26 --> 2897.30] we pray that you -[2897.30 --> 2898.44] would continue -[2898.44 --> 2900.34] to be near them. -[2903.34 --> 2903.74] God, -[2903.76 --> 2904.54] we know as well -[2904.54 --> 2907.36] that there are -[2907.36 --> 2909.36] members of our -[2909.36 --> 2909.98] church family -[2909.98 --> 2911.82] and really young -[2911.82 --> 2912.68] members of our -[2912.68 --> 2913.32] church family -[2913.32 --> 2915.00] who have COVID -[2915.00 --> 2916.14] or have COVID -[2916.14 --> 2916.94] in their classrooms -[2916.94 --> 2917.72] and are affected -[2917.72 --> 2918.80] by this now -[2918.80 --> 2919.76] having to be -[2919.76 --> 2920.98] at home again -[2920.98 --> 2921.80] for a period -[2921.80 --> 2922.36] of time -[2922.36 --> 2923.32] through digital -[2923.32 --> 2923.68] learning. -[2924.42 --> 2925.24] We pray, -[2925.42 --> 2925.78] Lord God, -[2925.82 --> 2926.46] that you would -[2926.46 --> 2928.02] bring healing -[2928.02 --> 2929.10] to each -[2929.10 --> 2930.24] and every person -[2930.24 --> 2930.88] here affected. -[2932.24 --> 2933.00] We pray, -[2933.12 --> 2933.48] Lord God, -[2933.54 --> 2934.26] for the families -[2934.26 --> 2935.10] that surround -[2935.10 --> 2936.14] those who are -[2936.14 --> 2937.34] sick and unwell -[2937.34 --> 2938.34] give them -[2938.34 --> 2939.10] what they need. -[2939.70 --> 2940.66] We pray for the -[2940.66 --> 2941.12] many ways -[2941.12 --> 2941.52] that that will -[2941.52 --> 2942.28] affect the rest -[2942.28 --> 2942.92] of life -[2942.92 --> 2943.74] and work -[2943.74 --> 2944.96] and being -[2944.96 --> 2945.44] together, -[2945.56 --> 2946.18] especially this -[2946.18 --> 2947.04] Thanksgiving weekend -[2947.04 --> 2948.32] when we had -[2948.32 --> 2949.22] so many hopes -[2949.22 --> 2949.92] and dreams -[2949.92 --> 2950.76] and plans -[2950.76 --> 2952.12] to be gathered -[2952.12 --> 2953.32] as families. -[2955.58 --> 2956.10] God, -[2956.14 --> 2956.52] in the midst -[2956.52 --> 2957.02] of this, -[2957.28 --> 2958.12] we know -[2958.12 --> 2958.94] the unique -[2958.94 --> 2960.00] impact it's -[2960.00 --> 2960.76] having on those -[2960.76 --> 2961.40] who work in -[2961.40 --> 2961.80] healthcare. -[2962.74 --> 2963.46] We want to pray -[2963.46 --> 2965.04] for all of those -[2965.04 --> 2965.80] whom we know -[2965.80 --> 2966.36] here in our -[2966.36 --> 2966.88] church family -[2966.88 --> 2967.56] and beyond -[2967.56 --> 2968.82] who are working -[2968.82 --> 2969.32] in healthcare -[2969.32 --> 2970.18] either as nurses -[2970.18 --> 2971.06] or care aides -[2971.06 --> 2972.32] or staff -[2972.32 --> 2973.24] in long-term -[2973.24 --> 2973.86] care homes -[2973.86 --> 2974.66] or in hospitals. -[2975.38 --> 2976.04] We pray, -[2976.20 --> 2976.36] God, -[2976.48 --> 2977.76] that you would -[2977.76 --> 2978.72] uphold them -[2978.72 --> 2979.40] in there, -[2980.24 --> 2981.06] that you would -[2981.06 --> 2982.52] speak words -[2982.52 --> 2983.08] of encouragement -[2983.08 --> 2983.62] and hope -[2983.62 --> 2984.98] what they do, -[2985.56 --> 2986.16] that they would -[2986.16 --> 2987.46] know your nearness -[2987.46 --> 2988.14] and that your -[2988.14 --> 2988.86] nearness would be -[2988.86 --> 2989.72] mediated to them -[2989.72 --> 2991.12] through us, -[2991.36 --> 2992.24] through our prayers, -[2992.46 --> 2992.96] through our -[2992.96 --> 2993.98] encouragements, -[2994.14 --> 2995.30] through our support -[2995.30 --> 2996.24] together. -[2996.24 --> 2999.82] Father God, -[2999.88 --> 3000.52] now we come -[3000.52 --> 3001.58] to you -[3001.58 --> 3002.96] that you would -[3002.96 --> 3003.92] speak your -[3003.92 --> 3005.46] truth to us -[3005.46 --> 3007.34] and so take -[3007.34 --> 3007.96] your word -[3007.96 --> 3008.86] and plant it -[3008.86 --> 3010.04] deep in our -[3010.04 --> 3010.54] hearts -[3010.54 --> 3011.74] and allow it -[3011.74 --> 3012.38] to grow -[3012.38 --> 3013.54] into newness -[3013.54 --> 3014.30] of life. -[3015.40 --> 3016.72] Speak in power -[3016.72 --> 3017.78] so that we might -[3017.78 --> 3018.70] go from this -[3018.70 --> 3019.78] place refreshed -[3019.78 --> 3020.86] and renewed -[3020.86 --> 3021.88] and encouraged -[3021.88 --> 3023.72] in our journeys -[3023.72 --> 3024.46] of faith -[3024.46 --> 3026.02] and faithfulness. -[3027.10 --> 3028.30] Help us -[3028.30 --> 3030.14] to understand -[3030.14 --> 3031.72] and to grow -[3031.72 --> 3032.88] in the grace -[3032.88 --> 3033.86] and knowledge -[3033.86 --> 3034.68] of our Lord -[3034.68 --> 3035.26] and Savior, -[3035.42 --> 3036.14] Jesus Christ, -[3036.28 --> 3037.24] in whose name -[3037.24 --> 3037.98] we pray. -[3039.06 --> 3039.46] Amen. -[3039.46 --> 3039.54] Amen. -[3040.82 --> 3041.38] Amen. -[3041.38 --> 3052.06] As we just -[3052.06 --> 3052.46] prayed, -[3052.60 --> 3053.98] we are going -[3053.98 --> 3054.36] to spend -[3054.36 --> 3055.12] some time -[3055.12 --> 3056.86] in God's -[3056.86 --> 3057.14] word, -[3057.54 --> 3058.16] opening that -[3058.16 --> 3058.44] up. -[3059.38 --> 3060.34] We are -[3060.34 --> 3061.58] continuing -[3061.58 --> 3062.44] this week -[3062.44 --> 3063.18] in a series -[3063.18 --> 3064.22] that Pastor Kevin -[3064.22 --> 3065.08] started us -[3065.08 --> 3066.60] in last week, -[3067.40 --> 3067.86] a series -[3067.86 --> 3068.30] called -[3068.30 --> 3068.98] Exiles -[3068.98 --> 3069.82] in a Pagan -[3069.82 --> 3070.28] Land -[3070.28 --> 3070.68] and it's -[3070.68 --> 3072.60] through 1 Peter -[3072.60 --> 3074.24] in our -[3074.24 --> 3075.32] reading together -[3075.32 --> 3077.12] and last week -[3077.12 --> 3077.68] we looked at -[3077.68 --> 3078.20] what it means -[3078.20 --> 3079.14] to be born again -[3079.14 --> 3080.16] into a living hope. -[3080.72 --> 3080.84] Now, -[3081.24 --> 3082.32] before I jump -[3082.32 --> 3083.22] into it too far, -[3083.30 --> 3083.74] I just want to put -[3083.74 --> 3084.58] this in front of you -[3084.58 --> 3085.76] again one more time. -[3085.86 --> 3087.80] This is a Bible study -[3087.80 --> 3089.16] that I, -[3089.38 --> 3090.16] along with a few -[3090.16 --> 3091.16] friends of mine, -[3091.66 --> 3093.36] wrote after a few -[3093.36 --> 3094.76] years of studying -[3094.76 --> 3096.72] the early church -[3096.72 --> 3098.02] and their response -[3098.02 --> 3099.12] to paganism -[3099.12 --> 3099.84] and then studying -[3099.84 --> 3100.84] in 1 Peter, -[3101.72 --> 3104.56] for many, -[3104.72 --> 3105.40] many years, -[3105.88 --> 3107.28] a few centuries -[3107.28 --> 3107.78] actually, -[3108.02 --> 3108.62] if you were -[3108.62 --> 3109.12] to read -[3109.12 --> 3109.86] a commentary, -[3110.78 --> 3111.58] which is just -[3111.58 --> 3112.58] a study book -[3112.58 --> 3113.40] on particular -[3113.40 --> 3114.24] books of the Bible, -[3114.34 --> 3114.68] if you were -[3114.68 --> 3115.58] to read a commentary -[3115.58 --> 3116.74] on 1 Peter, -[3117.10 --> 3118.00] it would often -[3118.00 --> 3119.48] say something like, -[3120.04 --> 3122.08] 1 Peter is addressed -[3122.08 --> 3122.74] to a group -[3122.74 --> 3123.24] of Christians -[3123.24 --> 3124.12] who don't live -[3124.12 --> 3124.88] in a situation -[3124.88 --> 3126.18] like ours. -[3126.18 --> 3127.42] We live in a Christian -[3127.42 --> 3127.90] culture, -[3127.90 --> 3129.06] and so we have -[3129.06 --> 3129.72] to be creative -[3129.72 --> 3130.62] in our application. -[3131.46 --> 3133.12] In the last 20 or 30 years, -[3133.88 --> 3134.94] commentary writing -[3134.94 --> 3135.82] has changed -[3135.82 --> 3136.92] on 1 Peter -[3136.92 --> 3139.00] because more and more -[3139.00 --> 3139.92] we are recognizing -[3139.92 --> 3141.24] that we are living -[3141.24 --> 3142.62] in a post-Christian -[3142.62 --> 3143.48] culture, -[3143.62 --> 3144.12] or we are living -[3144.12 --> 3145.46] in a resurgence -[3145.46 --> 3147.74] of even paganism. -[3148.92 --> 3149.06] Right? -[3149.12 --> 3149.70] The reality, -[3150.44 --> 3152.22] the atheist -[3152.22 --> 3153.44] secular project -[3153.44 --> 3154.56] of the 90s -[3154.56 --> 3155.70] and early 2000s -[3155.70 --> 3156.64] seems to have failed -[3156.64 --> 3157.54] because now people -[3157.54 --> 3158.62] say things like, -[3159.50 --> 3160.32] I'm spiritual -[3160.32 --> 3161.86] but not religious. -[3162.86 --> 3163.66] If you've ever -[3163.66 --> 3164.24] heard that, -[3164.92 --> 3166.76] that's a fundamentally -[3166.76 --> 3168.60] pagan idea. -[3169.30 --> 3169.48] Now, -[3169.50 --> 3169.92] we'll get into -[3169.92 --> 3170.80] some of that stuff -[3170.80 --> 3171.64] in this series -[3171.64 --> 3172.60] and look at that, -[3172.60 --> 3174.16] but there is -[3174.16 --> 3174.78] a Bible study -[3174.78 --> 3175.18] that we have -[3175.18 --> 3176.74] given out to you -[3176.74 --> 3177.72] and offered to you -[3177.72 --> 3179.12] to go through, -[3179.22 --> 3179.96] not necessarily -[3179.96 --> 3182.38] in line with our series, -[3182.48 --> 3183.02] you go through it -[3183.02 --> 3183.72] at your own pace, -[3183.76 --> 3184.12] whether it's -[3184.12 --> 3184.86] with your care group -[3184.86 --> 3186.34] or whatever else -[3186.34 --> 3186.82] you have. -[3187.14 --> 3188.20] I know the coffee break -[3188.20 --> 3189.60] ladies are doing it, -[3189.64 --> 3190.32] there's some other -[3190.32 --> 3190.88] care groups -[3190.88 --> 3191.76] that are doing it, -[3191.88 --> 3192.56] there are individuals -[3192.56 --> 3193.44] who are going through. -[3193.90 --> 3194.08] Anyways, -[3194.12 --> 3195.18] if you would like this, -[3196.02 --> 3197.66] we can make a copy -[3197.66 --> 3198.64] available for you -[3198.64 --> 3199.20] and have it, -[3199.62 --> 3200.36] and then also -[3200.36 --> 3201.02] we're working on -[3201.02 --> 3202.28] getting digital copies -[3202.28 --> 3203.56] available for those -[3203.56 --> 3204.12] people who would -[3204.12 --> 3204.82] prefer to function -[3204.82 --> 3205.78] with it that way. -[3206.14 --> 3206.48] And so, -[3206.88 --> 3207.90] you can find that, -[3207.96 --> 3208.72] you can talk to me -[3208.72 --> 3209.46] or you can email -[3209.46 --> 3210.54] Marilyn in the office -[3210.54 --> 3211.98] and she will get -[3211.98 --> 3214.04] this set for you. -[3215.44 --> 3215.84] Now, -[3215.90 --> 3216.32] last week, -[3216.40 --> 3216.78] as we said, -[3216.88 --> 3217.98] Kevin started us off -[3217.98 --> 3218.94] by grounding us -[3218.94 --> 3220.68] in the living hope -[3220.68 --> 3221.44] of Jesus -[3221.44 --> 3223.10] and he had a beautiful -[3223.10 --> 3224.04] line in his sermon -[3224.04 --> 3224.76] and I wrote it down -[3224.76 --> 3225.28] in my Bible. -[3225.40 --> 3225.64] He said, -[3225.78 --> 3227.80] Jesus is our inheritance. -[3229.76 --> 3230.50] And I'm going to be -[3230.50 --> 3231.68] honest with you, -[3231.68 --> 3232.60] if you take anything -[3232.60 --> 3233.76] out of this series -[3233.76 --> 3234.82] and out of 1 Peter, -[3235.14 --> 3236.26] let it be that line -[3236.26 --> 3237.04] and then let that -[3237.04 --> 3237.86] permeate through -[3237.86 --> 3238.50] the rest of your -[3238.50 --> 3239.06] understanding. -[3239.56 --> 3241.28] Jesus is our -[3241.28 --> 3242.28] inheritance. -[3243.58 --> 3244.04] So, -[3244.10 --> 3244.84] as we are coming -[3244.84 --> 3246.02] into this study -[3246.02 --> 3247.38] under that banner, -[3247.52 --> 3248.62] asking the question -[3248.62 --> 3249.66] of how do we live -[3249.66 --> 3250.36] as exiles -[3250.36 --> 3251.26] in a pagan land, -[3251.52 --> 3252.52] it's important for us -[3252.52 --> 3253.36] to just maybe -[3253.36 --> 3254.98] quickly recap -[3254.98 --> 3255.98] what do we mean -[3255.98 --> 3257.00] when we use the word -[3257.00 --> 3257.68] pagan -[3257.68 --> 3258.84] and what do we mean -[3258.84 --> 3259.70] when we use the word -[3259.70 --> 3260.44] exiles? -[3261.46 --> 3261.68] Now, -[3261.80 --> 3262.08] first, -[3262.92 --> 3263.28] pagan, -[3263.44 --> 3263.80] actually, -[3264.14 --> 3265.42] it used to be -[3265.42 --> 3266.76] when it was first used -[3266.76 --> 3269.34] in the Roman times -[3269.34 --> 3270.52] in Latin, -[3271.32 --> 3272.32] used to just mean -[3272.32 --> 3273.32] country dweller. -[3274.64 --> 3274.92] And so, -[3275.06 --> 3275.72] in some sense, -[3275.78 --> 3276.64] it's kind of like -[3276.64 --> 3277.52] the word redneck. -[3278.56 --> 3279.00] Are you familiar -[3279.00 --> 3279.58] with that word? -[3280.14 --> 3280.80] Maybe hick -[3280.80 --> 3282.28] or country bumpkin, -[3283.16 --> 3283.38] right? -[3284.02 --> 3284.96] Those who were -[3284.96 --> 3286.28] removed from -[3286.28 --> 3286.74] the sort of -[3286.74 --> 3288.16] urban and progressive -[3288.16 --> 3289.16] culture, -[3289.40 --> 3290.04] and the reason -[3290.04 --> 3290.80] they were called -[3290.80 --> 3292.58] pagans or country dwellers -[3292.58 --> 3293.00] and the reason -[3293.00 --> 3294.32] it was a derogatory term -[3294.32 --> 3295.50] is because they were -[3295.50 --> 3296.62] hanging on to -[3296.62 --> 3297.80] the sort of -[3297.80 --> 3299.78] religions of old -[3299.78 --> 3301.64] and the spirituality -[3301.64 --> 3303.14] of old -[3303.14 --> 3304.88] as the urban elite -[3304.88 --> 3306.12] sort of moved on -[3306.12 --> 3309.36] into the next phase -[3309.36 --> 3311.34] of their life -[3311.34 --> 3312.50] and religious understanding -[3312.50 --> 3312.88] together. -[3313.58 --> 3315.22] The country dwellers, -[3315.84 --> 3316.82] the backwards people, -[3316.82 --> 3318.14] were hanging on -[3318.14 --> 3318.98] to these old -[3318.98 --> 3320.04] ideas. -[3321.00 --> 3321.56] But, -[3321.74 --> 3322.36] when we take, -[3323.06 --> 3323.60] when Christians -[3323.60 --> 3325.04] start using that term, -[3325.42 --> 3325.86] what pagan -[3325.86 --> 3327.10] really means -[3327.10 --> 3328.32] is anything -[3328.32 --> 3329.84] not Christian. -[3330.98 --> 3331.38] Anything -[3331.38 --> 3332.28] that doesn't -[3332.28 --> 3332.92] recognize -[3332.92 --> 3334.78] the transcendent -[3334.78 --> 3335.92] sovereign God -[3335.92 --> 3336.62] over all -[3336.62 --> 3337.50] creation, -[3338.02 --> 3339.40] and then in so doing, -[3339.66 --> 3340.28] when you don't -[3340.28 --> 3341.00] recognize the -[3341.00 --> 3341.72] sovereign God, -[3341.82 --> 3342.58] you end up making -[3342.58 --> 3344.08] other lesser gods -[3344.08 --> 3345.72] or lesser glories, -[3345.86 --> 3346.60] the Bible sometimes -[3346.60 --> 3347.18] calls them. -[3347.90 --> 3348.12] And so, -[3348.20 --> 3348.72] here we are -[3348.72 --> 3349.86] in this place -[3349.86 --> 3350.90] recognizing that -[3350.90 --> 3353.14] paganism for Peter -[3353.14 --> 3354.60] and the early Christians -[3354.60 --> 3356.20] looked a particular way -[3356.20 --> 3358.88] and had a pantheon -[3358.88 --> 3359.52] of gods -[3359.52 --> 3360.44] available to them -[3360.44 --> 3361.06] to accomplish -[3361.06 --> 3362.30] a particular set -[3362.30 --> 3364.02] of tasks. -[3365.04 --> 3365.50] And again, -[3365.58 --> 3366.02] last week, -[3366.42 --> 3367.64] Kevin introduced us -[3367.64 --> 3368.28] to the idea -[3368.28 --> 3369.08] of paganism -[3369.08 --> 3370.08] being the idea -[3370.08 --> 3371.08] that the spiritual, -[3371.82 --> 3372.66] whatever that means, -[3372.66 --> 3375.30] is part of this world, -[3375.86 --> 3376.56] and by that we mean -[3376.56 --> 3377.26] it's made up -[3377.26 --> 3378.60] of the same stuff -[3378.60 --> 3379.86] as everything else, -[3380.34 --> 3381.58] and that it is somehow -[3381.58 --> 3383.32] able to affect your life -[3383.32 --> 3383.88] for good -[3383.88 --> 3385.52] or for your detriment. -[3386.64 --> 3386.82] Now, -[3386.84 --> 3387.30] if that's what -[3387.30 --> 3388.28] paganism is, -[3388.72 --> 3389.44] that continues -[3389.44 --> 3390.46] today. -[3391.10 --> 3392.00] We find ourselves -[3392.00 --> 3394.32] in a cultural context -[3394.32 --> 3395.16] where people -[3395.16 --> 3396.42] are spiritual -[3396.42 --> 3397.78] but not religious. -[3398.34 --> 3399.92] I have someone -[3399.92 --> 3400.52] who I know -[3400.52 --> 3401.44] pretty well. -[3401.44 --> 3402.80] she identifies -[3402.80 --> 3404.64] as a pagan witch, -[3405.14 --> 3406.70] and she says it -[3406.70 --> 3407.56] as a celebration. -[3408.76 --> 3410.38] If you are part -[3410.38 --> 3412.72] of the millennial generation -[3412.72 --> 3413.46] but even younger, -[3413.58 --> 3414.44] the Gen Z generation, -[3415.40 --> 3416.62] so younger than me, -[3417.46 --> 3418.50] much younger than me, -[3419.82 --> 3422.44] this is your normal. -[3423.88 --> 3425.02] It's all over TikTok, -[3425.76 --> 3426.38] for instance. -[3427.40 --> 3427.58] Now, -[3427.62 --> 3428.18] I know some of you -[3428.18 --> 3428.44] are like, -[3428.48 --> 3429.04] I have no idea -[3429.04 --> 3430.14] what those last five words -[3430.14 --> 3430.68] just were, -[3431.08 --> 3432.14] but it's there. -[3432.66 --> 3433.38] It's everywhere. -[3434.96 --> 3436.48] The question becomes, -[3436.68 --> 3437.80] for us as Christians, -[3437.94 --> 3438.58] is how do we live -[3438.58 --> 3439.28] in the midst of that? -[3440.08 --> 3441.02] And that's when we begin -[3441.02 --> 3441.72] to use the language -[3441.72 --> 3443.22] of identifying as exiles. -[3444.80 --> 3445.42] And an exile -[3445.42 --> 3446.68] is someone who lives -[3446.68 --> 3449.12] in a foreign culture, -[3449.24 --> 3449.76] in a world -[3449.76 --> 3451.10] that is not the one -[3451.10 --> 3452.60] that they are from -[3452.60 --> 3454.00] or, in our case, -[3454.30 --> 3454.94] made for. -[3454.94 --> 3457.30] In this series, -[3457.50 --> 3458.78] we are asking the question, -[3458.90 --> 3459.62] how do we live -[3459.62 --> 3460.54] as exiles -[3460.54 --> 3461.88] in a pagan world? -[3462.58 --> 3463.62] Or to make it -[3463.62 --> 3464.78] into a statement, -[3465.16 --> 3465.84] we're going to see -[3465.84 --> 3467.08] how being born again -[3467.08 --> 3468.36] into a living hope -[3468.36 --> 3470.18] changes the world. -[3471.16 --> 3471.88] This week, -[3471.94 --> 3472.54] in our text -[3472.54 --> 3474.42] from 1 Peter, -[3475.00 --> 3476.44] we're going to read -[3476.44 --> 3478.98] 1 Peter 1. -[3479.04 --> 3479.82] I'm going to start -[3479.82 --> 3481.00] at verse 13 -[3481.00 --> 3481.62] and read through -[3481.62 --> 3482.46] the end of the chapter -[3482.46 --> 3483.36] to verse 25. -[3483.94 --> 3484.60] This week, -[3484.68 --> 3485.64] to put it pithily, -[3486.14 --> 3487.08] we will see -[3487.08 --> 3488.64] how living out -[3488.64 --> 3489.74] of the living hope, -[3490.36 --> 3492.74] how we live out -[3492.74 --> 3493.46] of a living hope -[3493.46 --> 3494.08] that comes -[3494.08 --> 3495.58] by the living word. -[3496.82 --> 3498.34] So that's our banner. -[3498.72 --> 3500.02] Living out of the living hope -[3500.02 --> 3500.56] that comes -[3500.56 --> 3502.38] by the living word. -[3502.50 --> 3503.30] And so if you have a Bible, -[3504.20 --> 3504.88] I have that open -[3504.88 --> 3505.42] in front of you. -[3505.94 --> 3506.90] Keep it open as we go. -[3507.12 --> 3507.80] As I read it, -[3507.82 --> 3508.20] it should be -[3508.20 --> 3509.08] on the screen behind me. -[3509.08 --> 3513.02] 1 Peter 1, -[3513.14 --> 3514.16] starting in verse 13. -[3516.56 --> 3516.92] Therefore, -[3517.66 --> 3518.48] with minds -[3518.48 --> 3519.40] that are alert -[3519.40 --> 3520.58] and fully sober, -[3521.18 --> 3522.38] set your hope -[3522.38 --> 3523.58] on the grace -[3523.58 --> 3524.68] to be brought to you -[3524.68 --> 3526.16] when Jesus Christ -[3526.16 --> 3526.90] is revealed -[3526.90 --> 3527.70] at his coming. -[3528.70 --> 3530.16] As obedient children, -[3530.28 --> 3531.00] do not conform -[3531.00 --> 3532.04] to the evil desires -[3532.04 --> 3532.52] you had -[3532.52 --> 3533.02] when you lived -[3533.02 --> 3533.48] in ignorance, -[3533.92 --> 3535.18] but just as he -[3535.18 --> 3535.94] who called you -[3535.94 --> 3536.54] is holy, -[3536.90 --> 3537.80] so be holy -[3537.80 --> 3538.66] in all you do. -[3539.20 --> 3539.98] For it is written, -[3540.18 --> 3540.68] be holy -[3540.68 --> 3542.50] because I am holy. -[3544.10 --> 3545.32] Since you call -[3545.32 --> 3546.00] on a father -[3546.00 --> 3546.58] who judges -[3546.58 --> 3547.98] each person's work -[3547.98 --> 3548.98] impartially, -[3549.82 --> 3551.00] live out your time -[3551.00 --> 3552.56] as foreigners here -[3552.56 --> 3553.86] in reverent fear. -[3554.94 --> 3555.66] For you know -[3555.66 --> 3556.46] that it was not -[3556.46 --> 3557.52] with perishable things -[3557.52 --> 3558.60] such as silver or gold -[3558.60 --> 3559.48] that you were redeemed -[3559.48 --> 3560.28] from the empty way -[3560.28 --> 3561.24] of life handed down -[3561.24 --> 3562.56] to you from your ancestors, -[3563.04 --> 3565.06] but with the precious -[3565.06 --> 3566.52] blood of Christ, -[3566.52 --> 3568.28] a lamb without blemish -[3568.28 --> 3569.34] or defect. -[3570.84 --> 3572.14] He was chosen -[3572.14 --> 3573.68] for the creation -[3573.68 --> 3574.28] of the world, -[3574.80 --> 3575.58] but was revealed -[3575.58 --> 3576.66] in these last times -[3576.66 --> 3577.42] for your sake. -[3578.12 --> 3578.56] Through him -[3578.56 --> 3579.68] you believe in God -[3579.68 --> 3580.42] who raised him -[3580.42 --> 3581.02] from the dead -[3581.02 --> 3582.00] and glorified him -[3582.00 --> 3583.00] so that your faith -[3583.00 --> 3583.96] and hope -[3583.96 --> 3585.06] are in God. -[3586.34 --> 3587.28] Now that you have -[3587.28 --> 3588.26] purified yourselves -[3588.26 --> 3589.32] by obeying the truth -[3589.32 --> 3590.00] so that you have -[3590.00 --> 3590.68] sincere love -[3590.68 --> 3591.24] for each other, -[3591.74 --> 3592.66] love one another -[3592.66 --> 3594.38] deeply from the heart. -[3594.38 --> 3595.72] for you -[3595.72 --> 3597.06] have been born again -[3597.06 --> 3599.70] not of perishable seed -[3599.70 --> 3601.70] but of imperishable -[3601.70 --> 3603.28] through the living -[3603.28 --> 3604.36] and enduring -[3604.36 --> 3606.12] word of God. -[3607.12 --> 3608.02] For all people -[3608.02 --> 3609.08] are like grass -[3609.08 --> 3610.52] and all their glory -[3610.52 --> 3611.42] is like the flowers -[3611.42 --> 3612.10] of the field. -[3612.50 --> 3613.46] The grass withers -[3613.46 --> 3614.68] and the flowers fall, -[3614.82 --> 3615.40] but the word -[3615.40 --> 3616.08] of the Lord -[3616.08 --> 3617.72] endures forever. -[3618.72 --> 3619.44] And this -[3619.44 --> 3620.36] is the word -[3620.36 --> 3621.38] that was preached -[3621.38 --> 3622.26] to you. -[3622.26 --> 3624.60] This is the word -[3624.60 --> 3624.98] of the Lord. -[3627.78 --> 3628.70] So first, -[3629.74 --> 3630.52] living out -[3630.52 --> 3631.70] of the living hope. -[3633.08 --> 3634.52] As we read this text, -[3634.72 --> 3636.06] verse 13 -[3636.06 --> 3637.60] and verse 21 -[3637.60 --> 3640.50] bookend -[3640.50 --> 3641.88] a discussion -[3641.88 --> 3643.10] about what it means -[3643.10 --> 3645.00] to live as exiles -[3645.00 --> 3646.06] in our hope. -[3646.94 --> 3647.76] So verse 13 -[3647.76 --> 3648.82] said, -[3648.98 --> 3650.46] set your hope -[3650.46 --> 3652.82] on the grace -[3652.82 --> 3653.46] to be brought -[3653.46 --> 3653.90] to you -[3653.90 --> 3655.20] when Jesus Christ -[3655.20 --> 3656.66] is revealed -[3656.66 --> 3657.52] at His coming. -[3657.98 --> 3659.06] And then verse 21 -[3659.06 --> 3659.84] in the middle -[3659.84 --> 3660.54] of what we read, -[3660.90 --> 3661.34] through Him -[3661.34 --> 3662.08] you believe -[3662.08 --> 3663.34] and so your faith -[3663.34 --> 3664.40] and hope -[3664.40 --> 3665.76] are in God. -[3666.90 --> 3667.44] Now the point -[3667.44 --> 3668.52] that Peter is making -[3668.52 --> 3669.10] is that -[3669.10 --> 3670.50] what you hope -[3670.50 --> 3671.06] in -[3671.06 --> 3671.96] determines -[3671.96 --> 3673.42] how you live -[3673.42 --> 3674.18] now -[3674.18 --> 3675.92] and -[3675.92 --> 3678.20] how you live -[3678.20 --> 3679.04] now -[3679.04 --> 3680.36] reveals -[3680.36 --> 3681.54] what you -[3681.54 --> 3682.24] truly -[3682.24 --> 3683.06] hope -[3683.06 --> 3683.70] in. -[3686.18 --> 3688.10] What you hope -[3688.10 --> 3688.62] in determines -[3688.62 --> 3689.14] how you live -[3689.14 --> 3689.44] now -[3689.44 --> 3690.44] and how you -[3690.44 --> 3691.00] live now -[3691.00 --> 3691.50] reveals -[3691.50 --> 3692.10] what your -[3692.10 --> 3692.46] heart -[3692.46 --> 3693.02] truly -[3693.02 --> 3694.16] hopes in. -[3694.90 --> 3695.22] And look, -[3695.90 --> 3696.38] the reality -[3696.38 --> 3698.02] is that hope -[3698.02 --> 3698.90] when things -[3698.90 --> 3699.76] get hard, -[3700.20 --> 3700.78] that looking -[3700.78 --> 3701.58] for places -[3701.58 --> 3702.16] and people -[3702.16 --> 3702.68] and things -[3702.68 --> 3703.40] or technology -[3703.40 --> 3704.26] or whatever -[3704.26 --> 3704.78] it is -[3704.78 --> 3705.38] to put -[3705.38 --> 3705.98] our hope -[3705.98 --> 3706.34] in -[3706.34 --> 3707.18] is just -[3707.18 --> 3707.90] human. -[3709.14 --> 3709.80] If you've -[3709.80 --> 3710.66] grown up -[3710.66 --> 3711.78] in poverty -[3711.78 --> 3712.64] or on the -[3712.64 --> 3714.02] brink of poverty, -[3714.74 --> 3715.62] putting your hope -[3715.62 --> 3716.66] in education -[3716.66 --> 3717.94] as a way out -[3717.94 --> 3718.80] to break -[3718.80 --> 3720.20] that system, -[3720.46 --> 3720.80] to break -[3720.80 --> 3721.54] that history -[3721.54 --> 3722.88] is what we do. -[3724.20 --> 3724.90] If you are -[3724.90 --> 3726.26] from a war-torn -[3726.26 --> 3726.94] country, -[3727.32 --> 3728.18] emigrating -[3728.18 --> 3729.06] or fleeing -[3729.06 --> 3729.82] as a refugee -[3729.82 --> 3731.26] to another country -[3731.26 --> 3732.18] is placing -[3732.18 --> 3732.92] your hope -[3732.92 --> 3733.74] in the idea -[3733.74 --> 3734.36] that it will -[3734.36 --> 3734.90] be better -[3734.90 --> 3735.62] there. -[3737.84 --> 3738.98] A lonely -[3738.98 --> 3740.66] single mother -[3740.66 --> 3741.88] wanting to be -[3741.88 --> 3742.66] loved and -[3742.66 --> 3743.56] cared for -[3743.56 --> 3744.40] might put -[3744.40 --> 3744.94] her hope -[3744.94 --> 3745.82] in finding -[3745.82 --> 3746.82] a husband -[3746.82 --> 3747.76] to love -[3747.76 --> 3748.50] her and -[3748.50 --> 3749.04] her child. -[3750.14 --> 3750.46] Likewise, -[3750.70 --> 3751.18] a man -[3751.18 --> 3751.72] needing to -[3751.72 --> 3752.58] experience love -[3752.58 --> 3753.20] and respect -[3753.20 --> 3754.06] might put -[3754.06 --> 3754.64] his hope -[3754.64 --> 3755.28] in finding -[3755.28 --> 3755.86] a wife. -[3756.86 --> 3757.64] Someone who -[3757.64 --> 3758.24] feels like -[3758.24 --> 3758.56] they have -[3758.56 --> 3760.18] sacrificed a lot -[3760.18 --> 3761.30] or everything -[3761.30 --> 3762.36] for their career, -[3762.52 --> 3762.64] right? -[3762.72 --> 3763.94] Sacrificed family -[3763.94 --> 3764.82] or sacrificed -[3764.82 --> 3765.48] vacations -[3765.48 --> 3766.34] or relationships -[3766.34 --> 3767.32] might put -[3767.32 --> 3767.94] their hope -[3767.94 --> 3769.82] in that promotion -[3769.82 --> 3771.18] finally coming. -[3772.78 --> 3774.06] A young person -[3774.06 --> 3775.48] who doesn't feel -[3775.48 --> 3776.24] like they belong -[3776.24 --> 3777.02] at their school -[3777.02 --> 3778.14] or who doesn't feel -[3778.14 --> 3778.82] like they belong -[3778.82 --> 3780.32] in their small town -[3780.32 --> 3781.66] might put their hope -[3781.66 --> 3782.92] in finally moving -[3782.92 --> 3784.04] away to that -[3784.04 --> 3784.82] university -[3784.82 --> 3785.42] or college -[3785.42 --> 3786.14] or to the big -[3786.14 --> 3787.44] diverse city. -[3787.44 --> 3789.32] Point is, -[3789.48 --> 3790.78] when life is hard, -[3791.00 --> 3791.54] when we face -[3791.54 --> 3792.56] challenges and -[3792.56 --> 3793.22] struggles, -[3793.48 --> 3794.76] it's normal for us -[3794.76 --> 3795.84] to look for something -[3795.84 --> 3797.06] or someone -[3797.06 --> 3798.68] to rescue us. -[3798.76 --> 3799.26] It's normal -[3799.26 --> 3800.78] for us to hope -[3800.78 --> 3801.60] for something -[3801.60 --> 3802.66] that will change -[3802.66 --> 3803.86] our circumstances. -[3805.40 --> 3806.08] Maybe that hope -[3806.08 --> 3806.82] is a person. -[3807.34 --> 3807.88] Maybe that hope -[3807.88 --> 3809.22] is in a technology -[3809.22 --> 3810.16] or a thing -[3810.16 --> 3811.10] or an idea. -[3811.86 --> 3813.12] Maybe you believe -[3813.12 --> 3813.98] that you have -[3813.98 --> 3814.80] to be your own -[3814.80 --> 3815.34] rescuer. -[3815.48 --> 3815.92] You have to be -[3815.92 --> 3816.68] your own hope. -[3817.44 --> 3819.82] That people hope -[3819.82 --> 3821.56] in these crisis -[3821.56 --> 3822.92] and crucible moments -[3822.92 --> 3824.10] isn't what we are -[3824.10 --> 3824.98] looking at -[3824.98 --> 3826.02] because we all do it. -[3827.20 --> 3827.78] And really, -[3827.94 --> 3828.62] none of these things -[3828.62 --> 3829.46] are bad -[3829.46 --> 3830.26] in and of themselves. -[3830.46 --> 3832.52] Education is good -[3832.52 --> 3833.66] and it can change -[3833.66 --> 3834.20] your life. -[3835.54 --> 3836.68] Moving countries -[3836.68 --> 3837.96] can be good -[3837.96 --> 3838.98] and quite literally, -[3839.18 --> 3840.06] in the case of refugees, -[3840.36 --> 3841.70] can save your life. -[3843.36 --> 3844.60] If you are familiar -[3844.60 --> 3845.28] with the Bible, -[3845.42 --> 3846.30] you know that the Bible -[3846.30 --> 3847.38] says it is not good -[3847.38 --> 3848.42] for man to be alone. -[3848.56 --> 3849.42] And so we believe -[3849.42 --> 3850.04] that things like -[3850.04 --> 3852.08] marriage is good. -[3852.40 --> 3853.48] It's not the only good, -[3853.62 --> 3854.70] but it is a good good. -[3855.96 --> 3856.08] Right? -[3856.18 --> 3857.42] Finding a community -[3857.42 --> 3858.48] that fits -[3858.48 --> 3860.42] and fits you -[3860.42 --> 3861.68] is good. -[3862.26 --> 3862.96] Putting hope -[3862.96 --> 3864.60] in medical technology -[3864.60 --> 3865.74] to help get you pregnant -[3865.74 --> 3867.36] or to save your life -[3867.36 --> 3868.54] or to keep you safe -[3868.54 --> 3869.28] in a pandemic -[3869.28 --> 3871.20] are good things. -[3871.20 --> 3872.42] And let me say it, -[3872.58 --> 3873.70] these are good things -[3873.70 --> 3874.76] and they are worthwhile -[3874.76 --> 3876.68] goals to have. -[3878.04 --> 3879.74] But when a good goal -[3879.74 --> 3882.20] becomes a greatest goal, -[3883.32 --> 3884.86] when our greatest hope -[3884.86 --> 3886.08] is the thing -[3886.08 --> 3888.02] that will deliver -[3888.02 --> 3889.58] that greatest goal, -[3890.00 --> 3890.90] that person -[3890.90 --> 3891.74] or that thing -[3891.74 --> 3892.62] or that circumstance -[3892.62 --> 3893.78] or that technology -[3893.78 --> 3895.46] becomes for you -[3895.46 --> 3897.42] a functional God. -[3897.42 --> 3897.46] God, -[3898.34 --> 3900.30] when a good -[3900.30 --> 3901.84] becomes an ultimate, -[3902.26 --> 3903.24] you start living -[3903.24 --> 3905.02] like that will save you. -[3906.34 --> 3907.84] What you hope in -[3907.84 --> 3909.34] determines how you live. -[3910.12 --> 3912.08] And how you live now -[3912.08 --> 3913.76] reveals what we truly, -[3914.30 --> 3914.76] ultimately, -[3915.56 --> 3916.04] hope in. -[3917.42 --> 3918.24] And when you take -[3918.24 --> 3919.32] a created good -[3919.32 --> 3920.44] and live your life -[3920.44 --> 3921.28] towards it -[3921.28 --> 3922.36] as if that thing -[3922.36 --> 3922.98] will save you, -[3923.02 --> 3923.66] as if that thing -[3923.66 --> 3924.48] will give you purpose -[3924.48 --> 3925.48] or give you meaning -[3925.48 --> 3926.86] or be the answer -[3926.86 --> 3927.42] to the struggle, -[3927.70 --> 3928.92] you have exchanged -[3928.92 --> 3929.94] the creator -[3929.94 --> 3931.38] for a piece -[3931.38 --> 3933.06] of his creation. -[3934.94 --> 3935.64] And according to -[3935.64 --> 3936.76] Romans 1.25, -[3937.12 --> 3938.68] that's the most basic -[3938.68 --> 3939.84] fundamental definition -[3939.84 --> 3941.36] of idolatry. -[3942.82 --> 3943.62] Paul writes there, -[3943.74 --> 3944.48] they exchanged -[3944.48 --> 3945.60] the truth about God -[3945.60 --> 3946.34] for a lie -[3946.34 --> 3947.36] and worshipped -[3947.36 --> 3947.96] and served -[3947.96 --> 3949.22] created things -[3949.22 --> 3950.76] rather than -[3950.76 --> 3951.34] the creator. -[3952.86 --> 3954.08] And it's interesting -[3954.08 --> 3955.42] to me anyway -[3955.42 --> 3957.42] that this is also -[3957.42 --> 3958.80] the sort of fundamental, -[3959.04 --> 3960.38] the basic definition, -[3960.72 --> 3962.64] the operative assumption, -[3962.92 --> 3963.30] as it were, -[3963.48 --> 3964.66] of paganism. -[3965.52 --> 3965.74] Right? -[3965.84 --> 3967.60] Seeing the created thing -[3967.60 --> 3969.32] as a divine thing -[3969.32 --> 3970.36] or containing -[3970.36 --> 3973.26] a spark of the divine -[3973.26 --> 3974.78] or a divine element. -[3975.64 --> 3975.76] Right? -[3975.86 --> 3977.68] Locating the fount -[3977.68 --> 3978.84] of the spiritual -[3978.84 --> 3980.58] in the created world, -[3980.98 --> 3981.46] pushing out -[3981.46 --> 3982.14] or pushing away -[3982.14 --> 3983.10] or simply refusing, -[3983.10 --> 3983.72] really, -[3983.82 --> 3985.26] any transcendent -[3985.26 --> 3986.88] to this reality -[3986.88 --> 3988.16] is the way -[3988.16 --> 3989.12] of paganism -[3989.12 --> 3990.22] in the world, -[3990.32 --> 3991.32] in the world of Peter -[3991.32 --> 3993.20] and in the world of us. -[3994.44 --> 3995.70] And let's be really, -[3996.20 --> 3997.72] really clear. -[3999.04 --> 3999.18] Right? -[3999.18 --> 4000.34] This isn't just sort of -[4000.34 --> 4001.42] 21st century -[4001.42 --> 4003.54] Western individuals -[4003.54 --> 4004.66] and cultures. -[4004.66 --> 4005.88] This isn't just a, -[4006.26 --> 4006.30] quote, -[4006.50 --> 4007.62] post-Christian -[4007.62 --> 4008.88] renewed creation -[4008.88 --> 4010.10] or the new -[4010.10 --> 4011.22] secularism. -[4011.22 --> 4011.64] Right? -[4011.72 --> 4013.86] This is Christians. -[4015.24 --> 4016.76] This is the temptation -[4016.76 --> 4018.10] for you and me. -[4019.28 --> 4019.44] Right? -[4019.44 --> 4019.96] I've already said it, -[4019.98 --> 4020.92] but especially for those -[4020.92 --> 4021.86] of us who are millennial -[4021.86 --> 4022.84] and Gen Z -[4022.84 --> 4023.74] and younger. -[4025.00 --> 4025.50] Right? -[4025.56 --> 4026.42] This is the air -[4026.42 --> 4027.18] that we breathe. -[4027.84 --> 4029.02] This is the water -[4029.02 --> 4029.92] we swim in. -[4030.12 --> 4031.32] And you will have -[4031.32 --> 4031.86] a harder -[4031.86 --> 4033.18] and harder time -[4033.18 --> 4034.60] sorting this out -[4034.60 --> 4035.66] because it's just -[4035.66 --> 4036.48] everywhere. -[4036.48 --> 4039.28] This is the root -[4039.28 --> 4040.14] of our therapeutic -[4040.14 --> 4040.74] culture -[4040.74 --> 4041.72] as an expression -[4041.72 --> 4043.88] of expressive individualism. -[4044.10 --> 4045.12] This is the root -[4045.12 --> 4046.32] behind experience -[4046.32 --> 4047.98] over rational consistency. -[4048.18 --> 4048.74] This is the root -[4048.74 --> 4049.82] behind feeling -[4049.82 --> 4051.44] instead of thinking. -[4051.82 --> 4051.92] Right? -[4051.96 --> 4053.18] This is the practice -[4053.18 --> 4054.50] of mindfulness, -[4054.78 --> 4056.00] which is a Buddhist idea, -[4056.30 --> 4057.56] being put on the list -[4057.56 --> 4058.80] of spiritual disciplines -[4058.80 --> 4060.42] for a Christian institution. -[4060.76 --> 4061.52] This is the idea -[4061.52 --> 4062.22] that karma -[4062.22 --> 4062.94] is the way -[4062.94 --> 4063.58] of the world -[4063.58 --> 4064.88] and that we operate -[4064.88 --> 4065.46] now thinking -[4065.46 --> 4066.28] that some form -[4066.28 --> 4067.44] of reincarnation -[4067.44 --> 4068.42] is expected. -[4069.54 --> 4070.08] And if you think -[4070.08 --> 4070.64] that that's not -[4070.64 --> 4071.30] what Christians -[4071.30 --> 4071.78] are saying, -[4071.96 --> 4072.78] I heard this -[4072.78 --> 4073.90] from a Christian pastor -[4073.90 --> 4074.48] on TikTok -[4074.48 --> 4075.44] this past week. -[4077.96 --> 4078.96] It's the idea -[4078.96 --> 4080.24] that essential oils -[4080.24 --> 4081.28] and crystals -[4081.28 --> 4083.28] are the same thing. -[4085.04 --> 4085.50] Spoiler, -[4085.64 --> 4086.16] think what you want -[4086.16 --> 4086.96] about essential oils, -[4087.14 --> 4087.50] but they're not -[4087.50 --> 4087.96] the same thing -[4087.96 --> 4088.42] as crystals -[4088.42 --> 4089.16] and what crystals -[4089.16 --> 4090.16] are supposed to do. -[4092.12 --> 4092.24] Right? -[4092.28 --> 4093.20] Especially if you -[4093.20 --> 4094.08] are under 40, -[4094.48 --> 4096.36] this is our world. -[4097.76 --> 4098.94] Do you have eyes -[4098.94 --> 4099.60] to see it? -[4100.72 --> 4101.92] Do you have an awareness -[4101.92 --> 4103.08] of how insidious -[4103.08 --> 4104.06] it can be? -[4105.10 --> 4105.98] Do you know what to do -[4105.98 --> 4107.04] and how to respond -[4107.04 --> 4107.88] to your friends -[4107.88 --> 4108.74] who believe -[4108.74 --> 4109.84] that the earth -[4109.84 --> 4110.66] is divine -[4110.66 --> 4111.64] and that your -[4111.64 --> 4113.16] astrological sign -[4113.16 --> 4114.26] is all they need -[4114.26 --> 4114.96] to know about you -[4114.96 --> 4115.58] to know you? -[4117.66 --> 4118.10] Right? -[4118.14 --> 4118.66] It's not even -[4118.66 --> 4119.94] the enneagram anymore. -[4120.56 --> 4121.12] It's whether you're -[4121.12 --> 4121.50] a Libra -[4121.50 --> 4122.22] or a Taurus -[4122.22 --> 4123.40] or an Aris -[4123.40 --> 4124.14] in my case, -[4124.66 --> 4125.56] which I think -[4125.56 --> 4126.42] means I get angry. -[4130.98 --> 4131.94] And so look, -[4133.66 --> 4138.00] what is the opposite -[4138.00 --> 4138.56] of hope? -[4141.24 --> 4142.24] Is the opposite -[4142.24 --> 4142.76] of hope -[4142.76 --> 4143.96] hopelessness? -[4143.96 --> 4146.14] Because I don't -[4146.14 --> 4146.56] think it is. -[4146.62 --> 4146.92] I don't think -[4146.92 --> 4148.04] a definition -[4148.04 --> 4148.88] by privation -[4148.88 --> 4150.18] helps here. -[4151.12 --> 4151.92] I want to suggest -[4151.92 --> 4152.20] to you that -[4152.20 --> 4152.78] the opposite -[4152.78 --> 4153.80] of hope -[4153.80 --> 4155.46] is fear. -[4157.96 --> 4158.52] Specifically, -[4159.38 --> 4160.80] fear of the unknown. -[4162.46 --> 4163.36] Now, the future -[4163.36 --> 4164.40] is unknown -[4164.40 --> 4165.28] and so -[4165.28 --> 4166.20] it's feared. -[4167.32 --> 4167.48] Right? -[4167.48 --> 4168.14] And to mitigate -[4168.14 --> 4169.00] that fear, -[4169.38 --> 4170.08] people try -[4170.08 --> 4171.28] and find ways -[4171.28 --> 4172.72] to either predict -[4172.72 --> 4174.70] or to ensure -[4174.70 --> 4176.18] a particular future, -[4176.30 --> 4176.92] to determine -[4176.92 --> 4178.36] a particular future. -[4178.50 --> 4179.10] People try -[4179.10 --> 4180.02] to find ways -[4180.02 --> 4180.94] to lessen -[4180.94 --> 4182.04] the impact -[4182.04 --> 4182.82] of the unknown -[4182.82 --> 4183.82] by increasing -[4183.82 --> 4184.78] security -[4184.78 --> 4186.00] in the present. -[4186.32 --> 4186.46] Right? -[4186.50 --> 4187.04] The idea being -[4187.04 --> 4188.30] that I need -[4188.30 --> 4189.26] enough now -[4189.26 --> 4190.08] to ensure -[4190.08 --> 4191.06] I will have enough -[4191.06 --> 4191.74] then. -[4192.86 --> 4193.18] Now, -[4193.26 --> 4194.10] in the day of Peter, -[4194.10 --> 4195.66] the future -[4195.66 --> 4196.82] was ensured -[4196.82 --> 4198.44] by the resources -[4198.44 --> 4199.34] of pleasing -[4199.34 --> 4200.12] the gods. -[4201.56 --> 4202.10] That's still -[4202.10 --> 4202.76] true today. -[4203.54 --> 4204.00] We just don't -[4204.00 --> 4204.76] call them gods. -[4205.50 --> 4206.32] But functionally, -[4206.90 --> 4207.46] they are. -[4209.00 --> 4209.12] Right? -[4209.22 --> 4209.82] Paganism, -[4210.36 --> 4210.86] Christianity, -[4211.22 --> 4211.94] all religious -[4211.94 --> 4212.78] and irreligious -[4212.78 --> 4213.50] worldviews -[4213.50 --> 4214.58] in some way -[4214.58 --> 4215.60] are operating -[4215.60 --> 4216.30] in order to -[4216.30 --> 4216.64] minimize -[4216.64 --> 4217.76] or remove -[4217.76 --> 4218.90] our fear. -[4219.66 --> 4219.90] Or, -[4220.02 --> 4220.60] to put it -[4220.60 --> 4221.16] properly, -[4221.90 --> 4222.54] to minimize -[4222.54 --> 4223.74] misplaced -[4223.74 --> 4224.36] fear. -[4224.74 --> 4225.32] Because there's -[4225.32 --> 4225.80] a sense -[4225.80 --> 4226.28] in which -[4226.28 --> 4226.82] when you -[4226.82 --> 4227.40] understand -[4227.40 --> 4227.84] the God -[4227.84 --> 4228.48] of the Bible, -[4228.66 --> 4228.84] right, -[4229.04 --> 4229.88] that apart -[4229.88 --> 4230.64] from His mercy -[4230.64 --> 4231.18] and grace, -[4231.52 --> 4232.18] fear is an -[4232.18 --> 4233.24] appropriate response. -[4234.34 --> 4234.42] Right? -[4234.64 --> 4235.36] And a proper -[4235.36 --> 4236.18] understanding -[4236.18 --> 4237.10] of fear -[4237.10 --> 4238.38] is the right -[4238.38 --> 4239.72] order here. -[4240.20 --> 4240.54] That's what -[4240.54 --> 4241.20] Peter's getting at. -[4241.24 --> 4241.90] Your Bibles are open. -[4242.00 --> 4243.34] Look at verse 17. -[4243.58 --> 4243.90] He says, -[4244.72 --> 4245.38] Since you call -[4245.38 --> 4245.96] on a Father -[4245.96 --> 4246.54] who judges -[4246.54 --> 4247.52] each person's work -[4247.52 --> 4248.32] impartially, -[4248.76 --> 4249.92] live out your time -[4249.92 --> 4250.60] as foreigners. -[4250.78 --> 4251.32] That's the word -[4251.32 --> 4251.98] from where we get -[4251.98 --> 4252.52] exiles, -[4252.70 --> 4253.02] the same -[4253.02 --> 4254.42] Greek word there. -[4254.80 --> 4255.76] Live out your time -[4255.76 --> 4256.82] as exiles -[4256.82 --> 4258.68] here in reverent -[4258.68 --> 4259.86] fear. -[4261.84 --> 4262.72] I love the way -[4262.72 --> 4264.16] that Elliot Clark -[4264.16 --> 4264.92] puts it. -[4264.96 --> 4265.62] He has a little book -[4265.62 --> 4267.20] called Evangelism -[4267.20 --> 4267.94] as Exiles. -[4268.08 --> 4268.78] It's a great read. -[4268.86 --> 4269.88] I highly recommend it. -[4270.42 --> 4270.86] He says, -[4271.40 --> 4272.58] Fearing others -[4272.58 --> 4274.72] more than God -[4274.72 --> 4276.14] usually demonstrates -[4276.14 --> 4277.54] itself in trying -[4277.54 --> 4278.78] to please them -[4278.78 --> 4280.62] more than God. -[4280.62 --> 4280.66] God. -[4282.48 --> 4282.88] Now, -[4282.92 --> 4283.44] I get it. -[4284.08 --> 4284.68] Those of you -[4284.68 --> 4285.80] who know the Bible, -[4286.74 --> 4287.14] you're going to -[4287.14 --> 4288.08] quote the Bible -[4288.08 --> 4288.62] back to me. -[4289.48 --> 4289.96] You're going to say, -[4290.04 --> 4290.20] Well, -[4290.40 --> 4290.66] Pastor, -[4290.76 --> 4291.26] doesn't the Bible -[4291.26 --> 4292.02] say perfect love -[4292.02 --> 4292.82] drives out fear? -[4293.52 --> 4293.76] Yes, -[4293.80 --> 4294.10] it does. -[4294.18 --> 4294.76] 1 John 4, -[4294.80 --> 4295.08] 18. -[4295.50 --> 4296.06] I know the Bible, -[4296.18 --> 4296.28] too. -[4297.72 --> 4298.18] And of course, -[4298.24 --> 4298.72] that's right. -[4299.42 --> 4300.14] But I'm talking -[4300.14 --> 4300.74] about the kind -[4300.74 --> 4301.58] of fear here -[4301.58 --> 4303.54] that is reverence. -[4304.26 --> 4304.44] Right? -[4304.52 --> 4304.74] Like, -[4305.08 --> 4306.26] the fear of the Lord -[4306.26 --> 4307.00] is the beginning -[4307.00 --> 4308.08] of wisdom. -[4309.04 --> 4309.78] That kind of fear. -[4310.44 --> 4310.64] Right? -[4310.68 --> 4311.54] It's not the fear -[4311.54 --> 4312.28] that dominates -[4312.28 --> 4313.62] our world today, -[4313.68 --> 4314.72] which is something else. -[4314.76 --> 4315.86] This is another kind. -[4316.46 --> 4318.26] The opposite of hope -[4318.26 --> 4319.94] kind of fear -[4319.94 --> 4320.68] is different -[4320.68 --> 4322.02] than a reverent fear -[4322.02 --> 4323.00] of the Lord. -[4323.62 --> 4324.50] But let me also be clear -[4324.50 --> 4325.66] because I'm not trying -[4325.66 --> 4326.72] to scare you -[4326.72 --> 4327.68] because, -[4328.38 --> 4328.68] honestly, -[4328.84 --> 4330.04] I think most of us -[4330.04 --> 4330.96] are already scared. -[4332.20 --> 4333.12] Whether we admit it -[4333.12 --> 4333.80] to ourselves or not, -[4333.80 --> 4335.86] most of us live scared. -[4336.74 --> 4338.78] The world lives scared. -[4339.48 --> 4340.44] That's why things -[4340.44 --> 4341.50] like paganism -[4341.50 --> 4342.90] is filling the vacuum -[4342.90 --> 4343.92] that's left -[4343.92 --> 4345.64] in a post-Christian society -[4345.64 --> 4347.84] because there's fear. -[4349.58 --> 4350.60] A few years ago, -[4351.52 --> 4353.26] I gave a lecture -[4353.26 --> 4354.70] to a group of pastors -[4354.70 --> 4356.02] and ministry leaders -[4356.02 --> 4357.18] in St. Catherine. -[4357.32 --> 4358.04] That's where my family -[4358.04 --> 4358.58] moved from. -[4359.62 --> 4360.72] And it was on the history -[4360.72 --> 4362.06] of the early church -[4362.06 --> 4363.46] and how they, -[4363.46 --> 4364.68] not only just survived, -[4364.84 --> 4365.86] but thrived -[4365.86 --> 4367.64] and exponentially -[4367.64 --> 4368.98] grew -[4368.98 --> 4370.08] in the midst -[4370.08 --> 4370.94] of persecution -[4370.94 --> 4371.74] and in the midst -[4371.74 --> 4373.42] of this pagan culture. -[4374.38 --> 4374.74] Afterwards, -[4375.00 --> 4377.50] we led a panel discussion. -[4377.58 --> 4378.52] I led a panel discussion -[4378.52 --> 4379.92] with a group of colleagues -[4379.92 --> 4380.38] that I wrote -[4380.38 --> 4381.30] this Bible study with, -[4381.40 --> 4381.70] actually. -[4382.28 --> 4383.60] We led a panel discussion -[4383.60 --> 4384.02] and there, -[4384.88 --> 4385.70] a woman stood up -[4385.70 --> 4386.84] who does ministry -[4386.84 --> 4388.42] to marginalized women -[4388.42 --> 4389.88] in downtown St. Catherine's -[4389.88 --> 4390.94] and she said, -[4391.94 --> 4393.24] all people are looking -[4393.24 --> 4395.06] for peace and power. -[4396.00 --> 4397.22] Either they will find it -[4397.22 --> 4398.02] in witchcraft -[4398.02 --> 4399.32] or in Jesus. -[4400.40 --> 4401.06] But what they find -[4401.06 --> 4401.56] in Jesus -[4401.56 --> 4402.90] is totally different -[4402.90 --> 4403.94] than what they will find -[4403.94 --> 4404.58] in witchcraft. -[4406.26 --> 4407.08] But oh man, -[4407.14 --> 4407.98] I think she's right. -[4408.98 --> 4410.12] People are looking -[4410.12 --> 4410.90] for peace -[4410.90 --> 4412.20] and power. -[4412.20 --> 4413.76] And why are people -[4413.76 --> 4414.34] looking for peace -[4414.34 --> 4414.82] and power? -[4415.12 --> 4416.22] It's because we feel -[4416.22 --> 4417.62] the chaos of disorder -[4417.62 --> 4418.76] and we fear it. -[4419.48 --> 4420.92] We feel the inability -[4420.92 --> 4422.00] to face the future -[4422.00 --> 4423.60] and we fear it. -[4425.20 --> 4426.66] Peter is putting -[4426.66 --> 4427.58] a choice -[4427.58 --> 4428.80] in front of us. -[4430.42 --> 4431.44] Saying fear -[4431.44 --> 4433.10] or hope. -[4433.10 --> 4434.84] And it can be -[4434.84 --> 4436.10] that simple. -[4436.54 --> 4436.94] Fear -[4436.94 --> 4438.56] or hope. -[4439.50 --> 4439.90] Fear -[4439.90 --> 4441.92] in the future -[4441.92 --> 4443.12] and of the future -[4443.12 --> 4444.70] and of your place -[4444.70 --> 4445.72] in the world. -[4446.60 --> 4447.74] Or hope -[4447.74 --> 4449.08] for the future -[4449.08 --> 4450.16] and your purpose -[4450.16 --> 4450.86] in the present. -[4452.22 --> 4452.80] Because you see, -[4453.00 --> 4455.20] it's only a sense -[4455.20 --> 4455.96] of hope -[4455.96 --> 4457.18] for the future -[4457.18 --> 4458.46] that really fuels -[4458.46 --> 4459.78] and fills -[4459.78 --> 4461.34] a sense of purpose -[4461.34 --> 4462.32] for the present. -[4463.10 --> 4464.22] What you believe -[4464.22 --> 4465.00] about the future -[4465.00 --> 4465.76] determines -[4465.76 --> 4466.88] what you do -[4466.88 --> 4467.90] in the present -[4467.90 --> 4470.36] and how you do it. -[4471.34 --> 4472.22] And Peter is saying -[4472.22 --> 4473.26] because you know -[4473.26 --> 4474.02] the future, -[4474.64 --> 4475.52] because you know -[4475.52 --> 4477.16] that Jesus is returning -[4477.16 --> 4478.36] and that all things -[4478.36 --> 4479.60] will be made right, -[4479.72 --> 4480.74] because you know -[4480.74 --> 4482.42] that this seeming chaos -[4482.42 --> 4483.90] will turn to order -[4483.90 --> 4486.12] and that the mess -[4486.12 --> 4488.02] of the crisscrossing -[4488.02 --> 4489.10] paths before you -[4489.10 --> 4489.94] will be revealed -[4489.94 --> 4491.22] as the beauty -[4491.22 --> 4492.66] of a fractal arrangement -[4492.66 --> 4493.50] coming together -[4493.50 --> 4494.36] in the tapestry -[4494.36 --> 4495.14] of history -[4495.14 --> 4495.98] directed only -[4495.98 --> 4497.00] by a sovereign God. -[4497.18 --> 4498.66] Because you know -[4498.66 --> 4499.82] this truth, -[4500.62 --> 4501.82] you can have hope. -[4503.36 --> 4504.22] And hope -[4504.22 --> 4505.10] for us -[4505.10 --> 4506.54] who know this truth, -[4506.66 --> 4507.30] hope for us -[4507.30 --> 4508.26] who know this God -[4508.26 --> 4510.74] looks a certain way. -[4510.74 --> 4514.62] as obedient children -[4514.62 --> 4516.12] do not conform -[4516.12 --> 4517.20] to the evil desires -[4517.20 --> 4517.68] you had -[4517.68 --> 4518.26] when you lived -[4518.26 --> 4519.02] in ignorance. -[4519.30 --> 4519.82] Ignorance there -[4519.82 --> 4520.44] meaning before -[4520.44 --> 4521.32] you knew this hope. -[4522.42 --> 4523.86] But just as he -[4523.86 --> 4524.70] who called you -[4524.70 --> 4525.36] is holy, -[4525.64 --> 4526.74] so be holy -[4526.74 --> 4527.92] in all you do. -[4528.40 --> 4529.40] For it is written, -[4529.72 --> 4530.34] be holy -[4530.34 --> 4531.70] because I -[4531.70 --> 4532.64] am -[4532.64 --> 4533.70] holy. -[4533.70 --> 4536.14] hope -[4536.14 --> 4537.40] for the Christian -[4537.40 --> 4538.60] looks like -[4538.60 --> 4539.58] holiness -[4539.58 --> 4541.02] in the present. -[4542.66 --> 4543.08] And let's be -[4543.08 --> 4544.10] really clear -[4544.10 --> 4544.90] on the order -[4544.90 --> 4545.56] here, right? -[4545.60 --> 4545.80] Because -[4545.80 --> 4546.74] paganism -[4546.74 --> 4547.90] and all other -[4547.90 --> 4548.54] religions, -[4548.68 --> 4549.14] all other -[4549.14 --> 4549.80] worldviews -[4549.80 --> 4550.22] will put it -[4550.22 --> 4550.64] this way. -[4550.92 --> 4551.86] Do this -[4551.86 --> 4552.30] and you'll -[4552.30 --> 4553.20] get this reward. -[4554.24 --> 4555.34] Behave this way, -[4555.48 --> 4556.38] do this ritual, -[4556.60 --> 4557.52] pray this prayer, -[4557.94 --> 4558.74] empty yourself -[4558.74 --> 4559.36] of this, -[4559.48 --> 4559.96] offer up -[4559.96 --> 4560.86] this sacrifice, -[4561.36 --> 4562.46] work these hours, -[4562.66 --> 4563.60] drink this cup, -[4563.70 --> 4564.38] and you will -[4564.38 --> 4565.10] get your peace -[4565.10 --> 4566.06] and your power. -[4566.42 --> 4567.02] Every other -[4567.02 --> 4568.06] religion -[4568.06 --> 4569.80] and worldview. -[4571.16 --> 4571.60] Christianity -[4571.60 --> 4573.58] is different. -[4574.76 --> 4575.52] The gospel -[4575.52 --> 4577.38] is different. -[4577.58 --> 4578.48] The Bible -[4578.48 --> 4580.60] is different. -[4582.98 --> 4583.86] For you know -[4583.86 --> 4584.42] that it is not -[4584.42 --> 4585.36] with perishable -[4585.36 --> 4586.08] things such as -[4586.08 --> 4586.78] silver or gold -[4586.78 --> 4587.24] that you were -[4587.24 --> 4587.84] redeemed from -[4587.84 --> 4588.80] the empty way -[4588.80 --> 4589.56] of life handed -[4589.56 --> 4590.12] down to you -[4590.12 --> 4590.92] from your ancestors, -[4591.36 --> 4592.60] but with the -[4592.60 --> 4593.88] precious blood -[4593.88 --> 4594.60] of Christ, -[4594.96 --> 4595.62] a lamb -[4595.62 --> 4596.74] without blemish -[4596.74 --> 4597.94] or defect. -[4599.38 --> 4600.12] He was chosen -[4600.12 --> 4601.00] before the creation -[4601.00 --> 4601.58] of the world, -[4601.76 --> 4602.58] but was revealed -[4602.58 --> 4603.80] in these last times -[4603.80 --> 4604.58] for your sake. -[4604.96 --> 4605.88] Through him -[4605.88 --> 4607.10] you believe -[4607.10 --> 4607.68] in God -[4607.68 --> 4608.44] who raised him -[4608.44 --> 4609.00] from the dead -[4609.00 --> 4609.90] and glorified him -[4609.90 --> 4611.50] so that your faith -[4611.50 --> 4612.92] and hope -[4612.92 --> 4615.26] are in God. -[4615.26 --> 4619.82] hope in God -[4619.82 --> 4621.00] is a gift -[4621.00 --> 4622.36] of grace -[4622.36 --> 4623.46] given to you -[4623.46 --> 4624.26] because Jesus -[4624.26 --> 4625.16] lived the life -[4625.16 --> 4625.98] I should have lived -[4625.98 --> 4627.26] and died the death -[4627.26 --> 4628.66] that I deserved. -[4629.60 --> 4630.24] So what is your -[4630.24 --> 4631.26] source of peace? -[4631.80 --> 4632.24] The death -[4632.24 --> 4632.92] and the resurrection -[4632.92 --> 4634.14] of Jesus. -[4634.26 --> 4634.86] What is your source -[4634.86 --> 4635.52] of power -[4635.52 --> 4636.62] in this life? -[4636.72 --> 4637.14] The death -[4637.14 --> 4638.10] and the resurrection -[4638.10 --> 4638.96] of Jesus. -[4639.04 --> 4640.06] If we died with him -[4640.06 --> 4640.72] we are also -[4640.72 --> 4641.72] raised with him. -[4641.72 --> 4642.88] Now, to be sure -[4642.88 --> 4644.82] power looks different -[4644.82 --> 4646.98] and so much different -[4646.98 --> 4648.32] than what the world thinks -[4648.32 --> 4649.70] because the power -[4649.70 --> 4650.28] of the gospel -[4650.28 --> 4650.90] is revealed -[4650.90 --> 4652.04] in weakness. -[4652.80 --> 4653.82] This power of God -[4653.82 --> 4654.30] is revealed -[4654.30 --> 4654.80] in a willingness -[4654.80 --> 4655.44] to serve. -[4655.82 --> 4656.36] This power -[4656.36 --> 4657.24] is the washing -[4657.24 --> 4657.82] of feet -[4657.82 --> 4658.60] and the sitting -[4658.60 --> 4659.54] with tax collectors -[4659.54 --> 4660.68] and prostitutes. -[4661.02 --> 4661.60] This power -[4661.60 --> 4662.88] is foster parenting -[4662.88 --> 4664.46] and night shift ministries. -[4664.62 --> 4665.12] This power -[4665.12 --> 4666.74] is M2W2. -[4666.92 --> 4667.58] This power -[4667.58 --> 4668.38] is not thinking -[4668.38 --> 4669.08] of ourselves -[4669.08 --> 4669.68] more highly -[4669.68 --> 4670.22] than we ought -[4670.22 --> 4670.64] but rather -[4670.64 --> 4671.30] in humility -[4671.30 --> 4672.28] considering others -[4672.28 --> 4673.06] as greater -[4673.06 --> 4674.06] than yourself. -[4674.50 --> 4675.04] Holiness -[4675.04 --> 4676.42] is being set apart -[4676.42 --> 4677.30] in the world -[4677.30 --> 4677.90] in ways -[4677.90 --> 4678.68] that just won't -[4678.68 --> 4679.30] make sense -[4679.30 --> 4680.32] to the world. -[4681.88 --> 4682.38] That's why -[4682.38 --> 4683.18] the early church -[4683.18 --> 4684.20] was ostracized -[4684.20 --> 4685.08] and eventually -[4685.08 --> 4686.24] prosecuted -[4686.24 --> 4687.36] because it doesn't -[4687.36 --> 4688.02] make sense -[4688.02 --> 4689.00] to a people -[4689.00 --> 4690.72] who don't know God -[4690.72 --> 4691.64] and yet -[4691.64 --> 4692.34] when you look -[4692.34 --> 4692.92] at the history -[4692.92 --> 4694.02] that's exactly -[4694.02 --> 4695.58] why the early church -[4695.58 --> 4697.32] grew in exponential -[4697.32 --> 4698.30] ways -[4698.30 --> 4699.84] because it didn't -[4699.84 --> 4701.26] make sense. -[4701.30 --> 4703.26] only God -[4703.26 --> 4704.00] can do -[4704.00 --> 4704.76] that -[4704.76 --> 4706.88] and that's not -[4706.88 --> 4707.42] going to make sense -[4707.42 --> 4707.76] to people -[4707.76 --> 4708.46] who don't know him -[4708.46 --> 4710.20] and it should -[4710.20 --> 4711.22] be that way. -[4712.50 --> 4714.06] If my life -[4714.06 --> 4715.44] makes sense -[4715.44 --> 4716.30] to people -[4716.30 --> 4717.06] who don't know -[4717.06 --> 4717.44] Jesus -[4717.44 --> 4719.74] what is the effect -[4719.74 --> 4720.44] of knowing Jesus -[4720.44 --> 4721.30] having on my life? -[4721.30 --> 4726.38] I mentioned -[4726.38 --> 4726.96] Elliot Clark -[4726.96 --> 4727.38] already -[4727.38 --> 4729.88] Elliot Clark -[4729.88 --> 4732.58] was a missionary -[4732.58 --> 4734.20] to Southeast -[4734.20 --> 4735.42] to a country -[4735.42 --> 4736.38] in Southeast Asia. -[4737.06 --> 4738.04] He doesn't tell you -[4738.04 --> 4738.46] what country -[4738.46 --> 4739.30] because it's illegal -[4739.30 --> 4740.02] to be a missionary -[4740.02 --> 4740.68] where he was -[4740.68 --> 4741.24] and there are still -[4741.24 --> 4742.20] missionaries on the ground -[4742.20 --> 4743.30] where he was -[4743.30 --> 4744.84] and he tells a story -[4744.84 --> 4746.10] of a man named Hassan -[4746.10 --> 4747.36] who was a Muslim -[4747.36 --> 4748.14] who was a friend -[4748.14 --> 4748.76] of a friend -[4748.76 --> 4749.40] of a friend -[4749.40 --> 4750.72] while Elliot -[4750.72 --> 4751.32] was there. -[4751.42 --> 4752.26] They ran into each other -[4752.26 --> 4752.88] a couple times. -[4752.96 --> 4753.32] They didn't know -[4753.32 --> 4754.00] each other well -[4754.00 --> 4756.60] but Hassan knew -[4756.60 --> 4757.34] that Elliot -[4757.34 --> 4758.04] was a Christian -[4758.04 --> 4760.10] and Elliot knew -[4760.10 --> 4760.62] that Hassan -[4760.62 --> 4761.22] was a Muslim. -[4762.18 --> 4762.84] Now in this part -[4762.84 --> 4763.22] of the world -[4763.22 --> 4764.00] and in many parts -[4764.00 --> 4764.52] of the world -[4764.52 --> 4766.36] Hassan is trained -[4766.36 --> 4767.98] with all the answers -[4767.98 --> 4768.92] and assumptions -[4768.92 --> 4770.34] about what Christians -[4770.34 --> 4771.68] supposedly believe. -[4771.68 --> 4774.04] now eventually -[4774.04 --> 4774.98] Elliot left -[4774.98 --> 4776.66] that region -[4776.66 --> 4777.98] and went back -[4777.98 --> 4778.62] to the U.S. -[4778.64 --> 4779.40] to do some work -[4779.40 --> 4780.30] there. -[4781.32 --> 4782.06] It happened -[4782.06 --> 4783.74] that a few years later -[4783.74 --> 4784.66] a year or so later -[4784.66 --> 4785.90] one of his friends -[4785.90 --> 4786.70] was getting married -[4786.70 --> 4787.98] and so they went back -[4787.98 --> 4789.04] to the place -[4789.04 --> 4790.98] where they were -[4790.98 --> 4792.12] to participate -[4792.12 --> 4793.20] in that wedding -[4793.20 --> 4794.34] and while Elliot -[4794.34 --> 4795.04] was there -[4795.04 --> 4796.58] Hassan -[4796.58 --> 4797.58] reached out to him. -[4799.30 --> 4800.14] It seemed random -[4800.14 --> 4800.82] at first -[4800.82 --> 4802.18] but he asked -[4802.18 --> 4803.06] if they could have coffee -[4803.06 --> 4805.40] and over the course -[4805.40 --> 4806.28] of their conversation -[4806.28 --> 4807.26] it came to a point -[4807.26 --> 4808.42] where it was winding down -[4808.42 --> 4809.62] and Elliot had been praying -[4809.62 --> 4810.46] and saying -[4810.46 --> 4811.36] I need to do something -[4811.36 --> 4811.78] with this -[4811.78 --> 4812.30] I need to use -[4812.30 --> 4812.94] this opportunity -[4812.94 --> 4814.16] and so finally -[4814.16 --> 4815.16] he asked Hassan -[4815.16 --> 4816.02] what do you think -[4816.02 --> 4816.64] I believe? -[4817.78 --> 4818.46] And so began -[4818.46 --> 4819.94] a two hour conversation -[4819.94 --> 4820.86] back and forth -[4820.86 --> 4822.04] about Hassan saying -[4822.04 --> 4822.62] well this is what -[4822.62 --> 4823.24] Christians believe -[4823.24 --> 4824.44] and then Clark -[4824.44 --> 4825.16] being able to say -[4825.16 --> 4825.52] well no -[4825.52 --> 4826.28] this is actually -[4826.28 --> 4826.96] what we believe. -[4827.26 --> 4828.14] At the end of that -[4828.14 --> 4829.90] Elliot Clark says -[4829.90 --> 4831.22] Hassan asked -[4831.22 --> 4831.88] the question -[4831.88 --> 4833.10] why didn't you -[4833.10 --> 4834.10] tell me this -[4834.10 --> 4835.22] was what you believed -[4835.22 --> 4835.92] when you were here? -[4836.86 --> 4838.14] Now you have to leave. -[4838.80 --> 4839.62] Had you told me this -[4839.62 --> 4840.18] when you were here -[4840.18 --> 4840.70] we could have had -[4840.70 --> 4841.46] way more time -[4841.46 --> 4842.34] to talk about it. -[4844.84 --> 4845.74] That moment -[4845.74 --> 4846.86] Clark reflects on -[4846.86 --> 4847.46] in his book -[4847.46 --> 4849.00] and he admits -[4849.00 --> 4850.56] that it was fear -[4850.56 --> 4854.84] and his response -[4854.84 --> 4856.26] his learning -[4856.26 --> 4857.06] from that -[4857.06 --> 4857.86] is actually -[4857.86 --> 4858.70] recognizing -[4858.70 --> 4859.92] a greater -[4859.92 --> 4860.74] fear -[4860.74 --> 4861.44] right -[4861.44 --> 4861.96] the fear -[4861.96 --> 4862.60] of God -[4862.60 --> 4863.68] a reverence -[4863.68 --> 4864.18] for him -[4864.18 --> 4865.20] that has to trump -[4865.20 --> 4866.82] all those other fears -[4866.82 --> 4868.78] that's the source -[4868.78 --> 4869.90] of your hope -[4869.90 --> 4871.04] that leads to -[4871.04 --> 4871.76] holiness -[4871.76 --> 4872.76] that enables you -[4872.76 --> 4873.36] to talk -[4873.36 --> 4874.42] in those moments -[4874.42 --> 4875.14] where you will be -[4875.14 --> 4875.90] the odd one out -[4875.90 --> 4876.68] where you will be -[4876.68 --> 4877.30] ostracized -[4877.30 --> 4877.82] where you will -[4877.82 --> 4878.96] have an impact -[4878.96 --> 4880.34] of professing -[4880.34 --> 4881.04] your faith -[4881.04 --> 4882.46] in Jesus Christ -[4882.46 --> 4884.66] it's a reverence -[4884.66 --> 4885.82] for God -[4885.82 --> 4890.56] that's the source -[4890.56 --> 4891.10] of hope -[4891.10 --> 4892.16] that leads -[4892.16 --> 4892.68] to holiness -[4892.68 --> 4895.10] and holiness -[4895.10 --> 4895.72] too -[4895.72 --> 4897.06] looks a certain -[4897.06 --> 4897.52] way -[4897.52 --> 4898.50] for us -[4898.50 --> 4899.76] in the church -[4899.76 --> 4901.94] look at verse 22 -[4901.94 --> 4903.98] now that you have -[4903.98 --> 4905.06] purified yourselves -[4905.06 --> 4906.30] by obeying the truth -[4906.30 --> 4907.08] so that you have -[4907.08 --> 4908.12] sincere love -[4908.12 --> 4909.10] for each other -[4909.10 --> 4910.62] love one another -[4910.62 --> 4911.24] deeply -[4911.24 --> 4912.98] from the heart -[4912.98 --> 4915.82] let me ask you this -[4915.82 --> 4917.96] in a world -[4917.96 --> 4918.96] that is so -[4918.96 --> 4919.72] clearly -[4919.72 --> 4920.98] and deeply -[4920.98 --> 4922.06] divided -[4922.06 --> 4923.96] and only -[4923.96 --> 4924.82] every day -[4924.82 --> 4925.54] becoming more -[4925.54 --> 4926.08] and more -[4926.08 --> 4927.16] polarized -[4927.16 --> 4929.74] when people's -[4929.74 --> 4930.96] normal practice -[4930.96 --> 4931.82] on Facebook -[4931.82 --> 4933.10] is muting -[4933.10 --> 4933.76] conversations -[4933.76 --> 4934.58] because they don't -[4934.58 --> 4934.94] want to hear -[4934.94 --> 4935.48] from that person -[4935.48 --> 4935.86] anymore -[4935.86 --> 4937.54] but they also -[4937.54 --> 4938.02] don't want the -[4938.02 --> 4938.56] social impact -[4938.56 --> 4939.04] of deleting -[4939.04 --> 4939.64] that person -[4939.64 --> 4942.30] what sort -[4942.30 --> 4943.20] of witness -[4943.20 --> 4944.50] can a church -[4944.50 --> 4945.10] community -[4945.10 --> 4946.76] that is genuinely -[4946.76 --> 4947.84] sincerely -[4947.84 --> 4948.96] is Peter's word -[4948.96 --> 4949.44] in that verse -[4949.44 --> 4950.40] sincerely -[4950.40 --> 4952.20] loving one another -[4952.20 --> 4953.28] deeply -[4953.28 --> 4955.44] love one another -[4955.44 --> 4956.26] deeply -[4956.26 --> 4957.18] from -[4957.18 --> 4957.86] the -[4957.86 --> 4958.80] heart -[4958.80 --> 4961.00] that doesn't mean -[4961.00 --> 4961.66] we all agree -[4961.66 --> 4963.34] but it does mean -[4963.34 --> 4964.12] we all get together -[4964.12 --> 4965.44] it doesn't mean -[4965.44 --> 4965.98] we all think -[4965.98 --> 4966.46] the same -[4966.46 --> 4967.82] but it does mean -[4967.82 --> 4968.26] that we think -[4968.26 --> 4968.70] together -[4968.70 --> 4970.34] it doesn't mean -[4970.34 --> 4970.70] that we all -[4970.70 --> 4972.70] live and laugh -[4972.70 --> 4973.86] and love -[4973.86 --> 4974.62] you know -[4974.62 --> 4975.48] around dining -[4975.48 --> 4976.22] tables together -[4976.22 --> 4977.26] but some of us do -[4977.26 --> 4978.32] and we do come -[4978.32 --> 4979.30] around this table -[4979.30 --> 4979.98] together -[4979.98 --> 4981.84] right -[4981.84 --> 4982.48] in a world -[4982.48 --> 4982.94] that is so -[4982.94 --> 4984.24] deeply divided -[4984.24 --> 4985.64] and is intentionally -[4985.64 --> 4986.80] being fractured -[4986.80 --> 4987.62] over and over -[4987.62 --> 4988.30] and over again -[4988.30 --> 4989.44] what might it look -[4989.44 --> 4990.02] like for us -[4990.02 --> 4990.66] as a church -[4990.66 --> 4991.52] to love -[4991.52 --> 4992.20] one another -[4992.20 --> 4993.00] from the heart -[4993.00 --> 4993.56] because make no -[4993.56 --> 4994.18] mistake about it -[4994.18 --> 4994.96] this word -[4994.96 --> 4995.74] of loving one another -[4995.74 --> 4996.20] from the heart -[4996.20 --> 4997.74] isn't a general word -[4997.74 --> 4999.18] to people -[4999.18 --> 5000.04] and humanity -[5000.04 --> 5000.88] this is a word -[5000.88 --> 5002.34] to a local -[5002.34 --> 5004.18] gathered church -[5004.18 --> 5007.14] love -[5007.14 --> 5008.38] one another -[5008.38 --> 5010.08] deeply -[5010.08 --> 5014.86] that's what I want -[5014.86 --> 5015.26] for you -[5015.26 --> 5017.56] to be frank -[5017.56 --> 5017.98] that's what I want -[5017.98 --> 5018.52] from you -[5018.52 --> 5021.32] how do we get that -[5021.32 --> 5023.18] how do we become that -[5023.18 --> 5024.90] you know -[5024.90 --> 5026.32] again if you -[5026.32 --> 5027.46] if you study the early -[5027.46 --> 5027.90] church -[5027.90 --> 5028.38] one of the -[5028.38 --> 5029.26] the reasons -[5029.26 --> 5030.66] why they were able -[5030.66 --> 5031.50] to thrive -[5031.50 --> 5032.64] in persecution -[5032.64 --> 5034.02] and chaos -[5034.02 --> 5035.62] when they did -[5035.62 --> 5036.66] and how they did -[5036.66 --> 5037.58] is because -[5037.58 --> 5038.54] they took -[5038.54 --> 5039.16] God -[5039.16 --> 5040.48] at his -[5040.48 --> 5041.20] word -[5041.20 --> 5042.72] they really -[5042.72 --> 5043.18] believe -[5043.18 --> 5043.82] that God -[5043.82 --> 5044.42] spoke -[5044.42 --> 5044.92] and God -[5044.92 --> 5045.60] speaks -[5045.60 --> 5047.10] in his -[5047.10 --> 5047.84] word -[5047.84 --> 5049.46] that the gospel -[5049.46 --> 5050.06] message -[5050.06 --> 5050.62] really -[5050.62 --> 5051.42] can -[5051.42 --> 5052.46] transform -[5052.46 --> 5053.54] lives -[5053.54 --> 5056.14] that this is the source -[5056.14 --> 5056.82] of God's -[5056.82 --> 5057.60] working -[5057.60 --> 5058.66] in the world -[5058.66 --> 5059.30] right here -[5059.30 --> 5059.66] his -[5059.66 --> 5060.68] word -[5060.68 --> 5062.88] for you -[5062.88 --> 5063.54] have been born -[5063.54 --> 5063.86] again -[5063.86 --> 5065.02] not of perishable -[5065.02 --> 5065.40] seed -[5065.40 --> 5066.58] but of imperishable -[5066.58 --> 5067.94] through the living -[5067.94 --> 5068.86] and enduring -[5068.86 --> 5069.92] word -[5069.92 --> 5070.76] of -[5070.76 --> 5071.62] God -[5071.62 --> 5072.30] for all people -[5072.30 --> 5073.12] are like glass -[5073.12 --> 5073.84] grass -[5073.84 --> 5074.70] and all their glory -[5074.70 --> 5075.46] is like flowers -[5075.46 --> 5076.16] of the field -[5076.16 --> 5076.78] the grass -[5076.78 --> 5077.46] withers -[5077.46 --> 5078.16] the flowers -[5078.16 --> 5078.76] fall -[5078.76 --> 5079.84] but the word -[5079.84 --> 5080.90] of the Lord -[5080.90 --> 5082.06] endures -[5082.06 --> 5083.32] forever -[5083.32 --> 5086.08] living hope -[5086.08 --> 5087.18] looks like -[5087.18 --> 5088.52] living holiness -[5088.52 --> 5089.70] because of -[5089.70 --> 5090.26] the living -[5090.26 --> 5091.10] word -[5091.10 --> 5092.82] live the word -[5092.82 --> 5093.18] of God -[5093.18 --> 5093.78] and you will -[5093.78 --> 5094.24] actually -[5094.24 --> 5094.82] finally -[5094.82 --> 5095.52] for the first -[5095.52 --> 5095.92] time -[5095.92 --> 5096.62] live -[5096.62 --> 5097.66] live the word -[5097.66 --> 5098.12] and you will -[5098.12 --> 5098.50] actually -[5098.50 --> 5099.36] for the first -[5099.36 --> 5099.64] time -[5099.64 --> 5100.24] love -[5100.24 --> 5101.16] live the word -[5101.16 --> 5101.54] and you will -[5101.54 --> 5101.96] actually -[5101.96 --> 5102.76] maybe for the -[5102.76 --> 5103.24] first time -[5103.24 --> 5104.54] live hopeful -[5104.54 --> 5105.50] and not -[5105.50 --> 5106.88] in fear -[5106.88 --> 5110.76] earlier I talked -[5110.76 --> 5111.34] about the culture -[5111.34 --> 5112.02] around us -[5112.02 --> 5112.74] being the air -[5112.74 --> 5113.46] we breathe -[5113.46 --> 5114.54] and the water -[5114.54 --> 5115.36] we swim in -[5115.36 --> 5117.08] it's time -[5117.08 --> 5117.64] to change -[5117.64 --> 5118.22] the air -[5118.22 --> 5119.26] by letting -[5119.26 --> 5119.78] the breath -[5119.78 --> 5120.36] of God -[5120.36 --> 5121.06] come into -[5121.06 --> 5121.44] you -[5121.44 --> 5121.94] through -[5121.94 --> 5122.74] his -[5122.74 --> 5123.52] word -[5123.52 --> 5124.66] or change -[5124.66 --> 5125.14] the water -[5125.14 --> 5125.78] that we swim -[5125.78 --> 5125.98] in -[5125.98 --> 5126.52] by letting -[5126.52 --> 5127.34] the living -[5127.34 --> 5128.04] water -[5128.04 --> 5128.92] come into -[5128.92 --> 5129.12] you -[5129.12 --> 5129.68] immerse -[5129.68 --> 5130.28] yourself -[5130.28 --> 5130.80] in -[5130.80 --> 5131.46] God's -[5131.46 --> 5131.94] word -[5131.94 --> 5132.38] I can't -[5132.38 --> 5132.74] stress -[5132.74 --> 5133.42] this enough -[5133.42 --> 5135.20] let me put -[5135.20 --> 5135.56] it this way -[5135.56 --> 5137.18] when Jesus -[5137.18 --> 5137.62] was -[5137.62 --> 5138.98] after his -[5138.98 --> 5139.40] baptism -[5139.40 --> 5140.02] he was taken -[5140.02 --> 5140.76] out into -[5140.76 --> 5141.28] the wilderness -[5141.28 --> 5141.90] and he was -[5141.90 --> 5142.46] tempted by -[5142.46 --> 5143.00] the devil -[5143.00 --> 5143.42] you remember -[5143.42 --> 5144.06] this story -[5144.06 --> 5145.24] he was tempted -[5145.24 --> 5145.84] by the devil -[5145.84 --> 5146.84] three times -[5146.84 --> 5147.16] the devil -[5147.16 --> 5147.64] came to him -[5147.64 --> 5147.86] and said -[5147.86 --> 5148.26] well what about -[5148.26 --> 5148.72] this and what -[5148.72 --> 5149.12] about this -[5149.12 --> 5149.32] and what -[5149.32 --> 5149.68] about this -[5149.68 --> 5150.36] and every -[5150.36 --> 5150.68] time -[5150.68 --> 5151.00] what did -[5151.00 --> 5151.58] Jesus do -[5151.58 --> 5153.78] he quoted -[5153.78 --> 5154.50] the bible -[5154.50 --> 5156.52] the living -[5156.52 --> 5157.16] word -[5157.16 --> 5157.96] quoted -[5157.96 --> 5159.04] the living -[5159.04 --> 5159.74] and enduring -[5159.74 --> 5160.26] word -[5160.26 --> 5161.06] and defeated -[5161.06 --> 5161.54] the devil -[5161.54 --> 5162.36] pushed back -[5162.36 --> 5162.82] the devil -[5162.82 --> 5164.54] that's -[5164.54 --> 5164.74] what -[5164.74 --> 5165.16] God's -[5165.16 --> 5165.44] word -[5165.44 --> 5166.20] can do -[5166.20 --> 5167.00] for us -[5167.00 --> 5167.58] and in -[5167.58 --> 5167.78] you -[5167.78 --> 5168.32] and through -[5168.32 --> 5168.60] you -[5168.60 --> 5169.10] to the -[5169.10 --> 5169.36] world -[5169.36 --> 5172.86] this -[5172.86 --> 5174.26] is -[5174.26 --> 5175.02] your -[5175.02 --> 5175.50] peace -[5175.50 --> 5176.36] and your -[5176.36 --> 5176.88] power -[5176.88 --> 5177.90] because this -[5177.90 --> 5178.52] is where -[5178.52 --> 5179.00] you will -[5179.00 --> 5179.46] see -[5179.46 --> 5180.38] and hear -[5180.38 --> 5181.48] Jesus -[5181.48 --> 5183.82] this -[5183.82 --> 5185.10] is the -[5185.10 --> 5185.42] word -[5185.42 --> 5185.76] that was -[5185.76 --> 5186.16] preached -[5186.16 --> 5187.50] Peter's -[5187.50 --> 5188.10] audience -[5188.10 --> 5189.76] this -[5189.76 --> 5190.56] is the -[5190.56 --> 5190.82] word -[5190.82 --> 5191.14] that is -[5191.14 --> 5191.50] preached -[5191.50 --> 5192.62] to you -[5192.62 --> 5193.82] amen -[5193.82 --> 5195.32] let's -[5195.32 --> 5195.56] pray -[5195.56 --> 5203.88] holy -[5203.88 --> 5204.28] spirit -[5204.28 --> 5204.60] living -[5204.60 --> 5205.04] breath -[5205.04 --> 5205.88] of -[5205.88 --> 5206.38] god -[5206.38 --> 5210.22] take -[5210.22 --> 5211.12] your -[5211.12 --> 5212.54] word -[5212.54 --> 5213.68] and plant -[5213.68 --> 5214.22] it deep -[5214.22 --> 5214.70] in -[5214.70 --> 5215.78] us -[5215.78 --> 5217.58] so that -[5217.58 --> 5218.08] we might -[5218.08 --> 5218.52] live -[5218.52 --> 5219.30] lives -[5219.30 --> 5220.06] of hope -[5220.06 --> 5221.82] by living -[5221.82 --> 5222.22] lives -[5222.22 --> 5223.00] of holiness -[5223.00 --> 5225.02] transformed -[5225.02 --> 5226.48] and sustained -[5226.48 --> 5227.74] by your -[5227.74 --> 5228.36] living -[5228.36 --> 5229.46] word -[5229.46 --> 5232.14] move -[5232.14 --> 5232.62] in -[5232.62 --> 5233.40] us -[5233.40 --> 5234.68] we pray -[5234.68 --> 5235.90] to hear -[5235.90 --> 5236.60] your -[5236.60 --> 5237.68] voice -[5237.68 --> 5238.58] now -[5238.58 --> 5240.04] and to be -[5240.04 --> 5240.66] sustained -[5240.66 --> 5241.72] in our -[5241.72 --> 5242.12] journeys -[5242.12 --> 5243.10] of faith -[5243.10 --> 5244.50] and faithfulness -[5244.50 --> 5246.82] because -[5246.82 --> 5247.12] we -[5247.12 --> 5247.36] lord -[5247.36 --> 5247.72] god -[5247.72 --> 5248.64] have -[5248.64 --> 5248.94] seen -[5248.94 --> 5249.48] your -[5249.48 --> 5250.72] faithfulness -[5250.72 --> 5252.28] we -[5252.28 --> 5252.46] have -[5252.46 --> 5252.88] heard -[5252.88 --> 5253.28] your -[5253.28 --> 5254.04] story -[5254.04 --> 5254.68] of -[5254.68 --> 5255.16] love -[5255.16 --> 5256.48] that -[5256.48 --> 5256.66] led -[5256.66 --> 5256.92] you -[5256.92 --> 5257.40] jesus -[5257.40 --> 5257.92] to the -[5257.92 --> 5258.28] cross -[5258.28 --> 5258.70] in our -[5258.70 --> 5259.14] place -[5259.14 --> 5261.06] that -[5261.06 --> 5261.22] as -[5261.22 --> 5261.38] you -[5261.38 --> 5261.54] are -[5261.54 --> 5261.86] raised -[5261.86 --> 5262.44] victorious -[5262.44 --> 5263.02] we -[5263.02 --> 5263.64] are -[5263.64 --> 5264.26] raised -[5264.26 --> 5264.98] with -[5264.98 --> 5265.30] you -[5265.30 --> 5266.88] sent -[5266.88 --> 5267.18] out -[5267.18 --> 5267.54] in the -[5267.54 --> 5267.90] peace -[5267.90 --> 5268.60] and -[5268.60 --> 5269.12] power -[5269.12 --> 5270.14] of that -[5270.14 --> 5271.08] truth -[5271.08 --> 5272.80] in your -[5272.80 --> 5273.02] name -[5273.02 --> 5273.18] we -[5273.18 --> 5273.44] pray -[5273.44 --> 5274.56] amen -[5274.56 --> 5274.84] maybe -[5274.88 --> 5278.50] do -[5278.50 --> 5279.88] or -[5279.88 --> 5282.62] you -[5283.04 --> 5284.78] we -[5284.78 --> 5289.38] can -[5289.38 --> 5290.28] you -[5290.28 --> 5291.38] can -[5291.38 --> 5294.88] die -[5295.34 --> 5298.90] o -[5302.32 --> 5302.86] by -[5302.86 --> 5304.28] thy -[5304.28 --> 5308.32] Here in living we'll come to Gile with you, -[5308.32 --> 5310.06] Teil of the Lord, -[5311.28 --> 5313.84] This will do slow and slow. -[5316.22 --> 5318.70] Read the message of the Christian, -[5319.32 --> 5321.08] And light to an order of life -[5321.08 --> 5323.20] To the -[5323.94 --> 5325.74] staying stay, -[5326.72 --> 5327.16] To the ground in -[5327.76 --> 5329.62] voi -[5330.76 --> 5332.58] love -[5332.58 --> 5334.50] Praise Allah. -[5362.58 --> 5374.90] The future of heaven is if it is dark, it is dark, it is dark, but it is dark으로, it isfree. -[5374.90 --> 5382.48] He is through the colors and the leaves -[5382.48 --> 5388.40] Tents of this eternal life of peace -[5388.40 --> 5393.80] In my sight, in the works of grace -[5393.80 --> 5399.40] In my soul, Christ in all his name -[5399.40 --> 5402.98] I am not while in the works of grace -[5402.98 --> 5407.60] In the hope of the creation -[5407.60 --> 5414.40] They may die, of the promise reign -[5414.40 --> 5419.04] I shout, 확 out any posts of grace -[5419.04 --> 5426.06] or hell, cause it starts from the point of zn' -[5426.06 --> 5432.50] In forgetting so, unlike the reruns of life, -[5432.62 --> 5438.22] done that sort of rough on several times. -[5438.72 --> 5448.66] And faces on the간 of so thats how thank Indiana. -[5448.66 --> 5478.64] Thank you. -[5478.66 --> 5482.08] May we have a seat. Thank you. -[5488.82 --> 5500.72] As we meet Jesus and hear from him in his word, we now have opportunity to hear from him, to taste and see him in this table. -[5500.72 --> 5508.46] And so we gather together as a church family to be encountered by God here together. -[5508.66 --> 5514.12] This table, we are united not only with God, but also with each other. -[5515.62 --> 5521.24] As at his last supper, the Lord Jesus took bread. -[5522.20 --> 5524.88] And when he had given thanks, he broke it. -[5525.66 --> 5529.90] And he said, this is my body, which is for you. -[5530.94 --> 5533.56] Do this in remembrance of me. -[5533.56 --> 5538.56] In the same way, he took the cup after supper. -[5539.52 --> 5543.62] And he said, this cup is the new covenant in my blood. -[5544.64 --> 5547.82] Do this in remembrance of me. -[5548.52 --> 5557.48] For whenever we eat this bread and drink this cup, we proclaim the Lord's death and resurrection until he comes again. -[5557.48 --> 5565.78] Therefore, we proclaim our faith as signed and sealed in this sacrament. -[5565.78 --> 5583.08] Church family, the Lord has prepared his table for all who love him and trust in him alone for their salvation. -[5583.08 --> 5593.04] If you are truly sorry for your sins, sincerely believe in the Lord Jesus as your Savior and desire to live in obedience to him. -[5593.10 --> 5601.78] Whether you are here in this sanctuary or participating at home online, we invite you to come with gladness to the table of our Lord. -[5601.78 --> 5617.24] As the elders come forward to help us with distribution, I want to encourage you, as the elements are coming by in front of you, to keep your masks on. -[5617.34 --> 5620.10] So that we're not breathing over everything that people are touching. -[5620.66 --> 5622.10] And then to pass the tray. -[5622.24 --> 5627.20] And then once we are ready all together, we can remove our masks and participate there. -[5631.78 --> 5661.76] And then once we are ready all together, we can remove our masks and participate in the air. -[5661.78 --> 5691.76] We can remove our masks and participate in the air. -[5691.78 --> 5697.08] Make our masks and tape-in the air in the air. -[5697.08 --> 5697.78] infinite. -[5700.46 --> 5701.04] Beautiful. -[5701.04 --> 5701.54] Joyson-L vous-ricot-LทBeisban -[5701.54 --> 5703.64] Enjoy is the festival in a week came by member with persecution. -[5703.74 --> 5703.78] For ye alterncron. -[5703.78 --> 5707.14] Let us meet them for ourirs-line them only for the pegar. -[5707.14 --> 5708.60] okes God bless. -[5708.60 --> 5709.60] Holy연. -[5709.60 --> 5718.72] Thank you. -[5718.74 --> 5719.66] Bless us, we oppose our salts. -[5719.66 --> 5720.82] kehloads-h butt and donation, -[5720.82 --> 5727.72] I say, God is always -[5727.72 --> 5734.72] I say, I hear my walking home -[5734.72 --> 5740.82] I'll ask, I'll ask, I'll ask, I'll ask -[5740.82 --> 5746.82] I'll ask, I'll ask, I'll ask -[5746.82 --> 5753.82] How big it was, I'll ask -[5753.82 --> 5760.82] His giant blood has not been mine -[5760.82 --> 5767.82] I know that it is in earth -[5767.82 --> 5775.82] I feel the pain in everything -[5775.82 --> 5781.82] No grace, no power, no wisdom -[5781.82 --> 5788.82] The breath of life in Jesus Christ -[5788.82 --> 5793.82] His will and resurrection -[5793.82 --> 5796.82] I say, God is always -[5796.82 --> 5801.82] I feel the pain from His reward -[5801.82 --> 5806.82] I know that it is in earth -[5806.82 --> 5812.82] I feel the pain in everything -[5812.82 --> 5816.82] I know that it is in earth -[5816.82 --> 5819.82] I feel the pain in everything -[5819.82 --> 5820.82] I know that it is in earth -[5820.82 --> 5825.82] I feel the pain in everything -[5825.82 --> 5829.82] I know that it is in earth -[5829.82 --> 5832.82] I feel the pain in everything -[5832.82 --> 5833.82] I feel the pain in everything -[5833.82 --> 5835.82] I know that it is in earth -[5835.82 --> 5839.82] I feel the pain in everything -[5839.82 --> 5842.82] I feel the pain in everything -[5842.82 --> 5846.82] I feel the pain in everything -[5846.82 --> 5864.46] The body of Christ given for you. -[5864.94 --> 5867.64] And so take, eat, remember, and believe -[5867.64 --> 5868.98] that the body of our Lord Jesus Christ -[5868.98 --> 5870.52] was given for the complete forgiveness -[5870.52 --> 5873.24] of all our sins. -[5876.82 --> 5878.82] Amen. -[5906.82 --> 5908.82] Blessed Lord Jesus Christ -[5912.92 --> 5914.82] And when the Father dies -[5914.82 --> 5925.42] my Ji-SWER -[5925.42 --> 5933.22] Yeah. -[5933.22 --> 5963.20] Let us pray. -[5963.22 --> 5993.20] Let us pray. -[5993.22 --> 6023.20] Let us pray. -[6023.22 --> 6053.20] Let us pray. -[6053.20 --> 6083.18] Let us pray. -[6083.18 --> 6113.16] Let us pray. -[6113.18 --> 6143.16] Let us pray. -[6143.16 --> 6145.16] Let us pray. -[6145.16 --> 6149.16] Let us pray. -[6149.16 --> 6153.16] Let us pray. -[6153.16 --> 6158.16] Amen. -[6158.16 --> 6159.16] Amen. -[6159.16 --> 6160.16] Amen. -[6160.38 --> 6164.40] I invite you to stand as the elders are making their way back to their seats. -[6164.40 --> 6170.20] as we are standing there are garbage cans receptacles that have been placed by the doors -[6170.20 --> 6174.96] and so you can take your little cups and drop them in there on your way out following our worship -[6174.96 --> 6182.64] together standing together know that you go in the power of our good God on the promise of his word -[6182.64 --> 6189.46] and God himself goes with you I'm going to invite you to join your heart with mine as we pray -[6189.46 --> 6192.78] and that prayer will end with the blessing of our God -[6194.40 --> 6201.34] loving God we thank you that you have fed us in this sacrament you have united us with Christ -[6201.34 --> 6206.44] and given us a foretaste of the heavenly banquet in your eternal kingdom to come -[6206.44 --> 6214.92] send us out now in the power of your spirit to live and to work to your praise and glory -[6214.92 --> 6224.30] by the power of your word for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord all God's people said amen -[6224.40 --> 6239.08] may God go before you to guide you may God go behind you to protect you may God go beneath you to -[6239.08 --> 6246.02] support you may God go beside you to befriend you do not be afraid -[6246.02 --> 6258.62] let the blessing of God come upon you today do not be afraid go in peace to love and serve the Lord -[6258.62 --> 6261.08] God -[6261.08 --> 6261.64] amen -[6261.64 --> 6277.64] you -[6277.64 --> 6277.70] you -[6277.70 --> 6284.62] you -[6284.68 --> 6286.18] you -[6286.18 --> 6287.14] you -[6287.14 --> 6317.12] Thank you. -[6317.14 --> 6321.04] Hallelujah, we are gonna see the change. -[6322.46 --> 6328.88] No more crying, we are gonna see the change. -[6329.60 --> 6335.84] No more crying, we are gonna see the change. -[6335.86 --> 6342.42] No more crying, we are gonna see the change. -[6342.42 --> 6346.74] Hallelujah, hallelujah, -[6347.10 --> 6350.36] we're going to see the bay. -[6350.82 --> 6353.54] No more dying ahead, -[6354.16 --> 6357.58] we are going to see the bay. -[6358.16 --> 6360.76] No more dying ahead, -[6361.26 --> 6365.06] we are going to see the bay. -[6365.32 --> 6367.78] No more dying ahead, -[6368.22 --> 6371.74] we are going to see the bay. -[6371.74 --> 6379.26] Alleluia We're gonna see the king -[6380.82 --> 6386.00] Soon and merry to we are gonna see the king -[6386.00 --> 6393.68] Soon and merry to We are gonna see the king -[6393.68 --> 6400.62] Soon and very soon, we are going to see the King. -[6400.62 --> 6407.84] Hallelujah, hallelujah, we are going to see the King. -[6407.84 --> 6415.78] Hallelujah, hallelujah, we are going to see the King. -[6423.68 --> 6430.68] You're the only answer to the darkness. -[6430.68 --> 6435.68] You're the only right among the wrong. -[6435.68 --> 6440.68] You're the only hope among the chaos. -[6440.68 --> 6445.68] You are the voice that calls me on. -[6445.68 --> 6450.68] Louder than every lie, my sword in every fight. -[6450.68 --> 6456.68] The truth will chase away the night. -[6456.68 --> 6460.68] Your name is power over darkness. -[6460.68 --> 6463.68] Freedom for the captains. -[6463.68 --> 6467.68] Mercy for the broken and the hopeless. -[6467.68 --> 6471.68] Your name is faithful in the battle. -[6471.68 --> 6474.68] Glory in the struggle. -[6474.68 --> 6478.68] Mighty, it won't let us down or fail us. -[6478.68 --> 6481.68] Your name is power. -[6481.68 --> 6485.68] Your name is power. -[6485.68 --> 6495.68] Yeah, I know it is written, hope is certain. -[6495.68 --> 6500.68] Yeah, I know that the world will never fail. -[6500.68 --> 6506.68] Oh, I know that in every situation. -[6506.68 --> 6511.68] Yes, I know you speak the power to prevail. -[6511.68 --> 6517.68] Louder than every lie, my sword in every fight. -[6517.68 --> 6523.68] The truth will chase away the night. -[6523.68 --> 6527.68] Your name is power over darkness. -[6527.68 --> 6529.68] Freedom for the captains. -[6529.68 --> 6534.68] Mercy for the broken and the hopeless. -[6534.68 --> 6538.68] Your name is faithful in the battle. -[6538.68 --> 6540.68] Glory in the struggle. -[6540.68 --> 6545.68] Mighty, it won't let us down or fail us. -[6545.68 --> 6546.68] Your name is power. -[6546.68 --> 6547.68] Your name is power. -[6547.68 --> 6548.68] Your name is power. -[6548.68 --> 6550.68] Your name is power. -[6550.68 --> 6551.68] When you speak, you scatter darkness. -[6551.68 --> 6552.68] Light arrives and heaven opens. -[6552.68 --> 6553.68] Holy Spirit, let us hear it. -[6553.68 --> 6554.68] When you speak, the church awakens. -[6554.68 --> 6555.68] We believe the change is coming. -[6555.68 --> 6563.68] Holy Spirit, let us hear it. -[6563.68 --> 6565.68] When you speak, you scatter darkness. -[6565.68 --> 6567.68] Light arrives and heaven opens. -[6567.68 --> 6569.68] We believe the change is coming. -[6569.68 --> 6570.68] Holy Spirit, let us hear it. -[6570.68 --> 6571.68] When you speak, the church awakens. -[6571.68 --> 6573.68] We believe the change is coming. -[6573.68 --> 6575.68] Holy Spirit, let us come, yeah. -[6575.68 --> 6580.24] Holy Spirit, let us see it. -[6580.60 --> 6583.16] When you speak, you scatter darkness. -[6583.56 --> 6586.12] Light rise and heaven opens. -[6587.02 --> 6591.52] Holy Spirit, let us hear it. -[6591.52 --> 6594.48] When you speak, the church awakens. -[6594.72 --> 6597.26] We believe the change is coming. -[6598.02 --> 6602.96] Holy Spirit, let us see it. -[6602.96 --> 6607.92] Your name is power over darkness. -[6608.66 --> 6611.16] Freedom for the captains. -[6611.50 --> 6614.88] Mercy for the broken and the hopeless. -[6615.30 --> 6619.08] Your name is faithful in the battle. -[6619.68 --> 6621.88] Glory in the struggle. -[6622.48 --> 6626.12] Mighty, it will let us down our failures. -[6627.06 --> 6631.64] Your name is power over darkness. -[6631.64 --> 6634.46] Your name is power. -[6635.34 --> 6637.34] In the chaos. -[6638.34 --> 6640.04] Your name is power. -[6640.04 --> 6653.14] The powers that are como I am... -[6653.14 --> 6655.64] いは線を望るのが... -[6655.64 --> 6656.30] What love diff --git a/Sunday Worship - April 10, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - April 10, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b93d03aa75134ee19a243038b09f860985c10df9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - April 10, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,112 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction of Chris, one of the pastors -• Distribution of palm branches for Palm Sunday worship -• Announcements for Holy Week services: Good Friday at 6 p.m. and Easter Sunday at 10 a.m. -• Sign-up for pastor's class and profession of faith/membership in the church -• Promotion of Treat Tag for April on the church's YouTube channel -• Upcoming Mexico Mission lunch after church service -• Introduction to Palm Sunday service -• Call to worship from Psalms 118 -• Invitation to participate in singing Hosanna songs and waving palm branches -• Song "Come Now is the Time to Worship" with various repeated refrains -• Praise song with lyrics such as "Praise His rising", "Hope is stirring", "Hearts are yearning for You" -• Repeated singing of Hosanna throughout the service -• Praising Jesus as Lord and King -• Confessing failure to recognize and honor Jesus' majesty -• Acknowledging sin and surrender to the enemy -• Calling for restoration through Jesus' sacrifice and resurrection -• Seeking discipline from the Holy Spirit to be loyal servants of Jesus -• Praising God in the face of fear, uncertainty, and doubt -• Repeating the phrase "It is well" with variations throughout -• Expressing trust in God's name being known despite life's challenges -• A worship service with singing and prayer -• Collection for refugee families in Lebanon through World Renew -• Update on Langley Manual Refugee Committee's work -• Introduction to a Syrian family connected with the Nehmer family -• Discussion of funding requirements for refugee support -• Encouragement to give generously to support refugees -• Reading from 2 Corinthians 9:7 -• Worship music and praise songs -• Introduction of worship time and prayer -• Update on council meeting, including discussion of ministry evaluation and church review -• Resignation of two council members due to work-life balance challenges and disagreement over COVID protocols -• Call for nominations for new office bearers (elders and deacons) -• Discussion of classes and Lord's Supper preparations -• Celebration of Helen's 70th birthday -• Discussion about the arrival of spring and its associated activities -• Children sharing things they like to do outside in the spring -• Mention of Easter Sunday and Jesus' crucifixion -• Brief summary of the Easter story -• Prayer and blessing during children's worship time -• Congregational prayer led by the youth pastor -• Praying for daily bread and forgiveness -• Asking for God's help and support for those struggling with physical or mental health -• Requesting forgiveness for past sins and assistance in forgiving others -• Seeking guidance and protection from temptation -• Asking for Pastor Chris to be led by God as he speaks the word -• Reflecting on a story from Mark 14 about Jesus and a woman who anointed him with expensive perfume -• The focus is on Passion Sunday, not Palm Sunday or the kingship of Jesus -• In the liturgical calendar, "passion" refers to the love of Jesus for his people that led him to the cross -• The story in Mark 14 occurred a few days after Jesus' entry into Jerusalem and is likely set on Tuesday night or Wednesday afternoon -• The importance of understanding this event as actual history, rather than just a myth or story -• The supreme value of Jesus outweighs all other things of worth in life -• Anticipating objections that the pastor's perspective may be biased or arrogant -• The importance of specificity in a story -• Mark's use of specific details to emphasize the historical truth of the story -• The significance of Bethany and Simon the leper's home as the location for the events -• The meaning behind Simon being referred to as "Simon the leper" -• The consequences of having leprosy in ancient times, including social isolation and ceremonial uncleanness -• The implications that Simon was probably cured of his leprosy at some point -• The Gospel of Mark describes a specific individual who was wealthy, well-connected, and had leprosy but was healed. -• This description is meant to highlight the person's significance and authenticity, as someone with such characteristics would be known and remembered. -• The markers of specificity in the story, including the person's identity and circumstances, are intended to challenge readers to fact-check the account. -• If the first part of the story is true, then the second part must also be true, which includes a woman's extravagant gift of expensive perfume to Jesus. -• The worth of the perfume, valued at over a year's wages, is mentioned in both Mark and John's Gospel, with the Greek text specifying it was worth 300 denarii. -• The speaker is making an analogy between a "luxury item" and a Tesla, emphasizing that it's not just a small purchase but a significant investment. -• The speaker discusses the cost of living wage in Vancouver and compares it to more than a minimal yearly salary. -• The text being referenced has a woman who is unnamed, leading to debate about why she isn't named. -• The speaker argues against the idea that the woman's lack of naming is due to patriarchal bias, citing examples of women mentioned by name in the Gospels. -• The unnamed woman in the text is praised by Jesus for her actions -• Her actions are deemed more valuable than those of others present -• She is a foil to highlight the assumptions and ignorance of those in power -• She reveals their lack of understanding of Jesus' true nature and mission -• Her actions demonstrate that she has a deeper understanding of Jesus and his purpose -• The speaker argues that her anonymity increases the shame of those around her who should know better -• Worship and offerings in church -• The importance of giving to support ministries and missions -• Connecting giving to worship and trusting in God's providence -• Automatic giving through direct deposit as a convenient option -• Worship as a rhythm of life -• The importance of giving to worship Jesus -• Competing priorities between serving the poor and worshiping Jesus -• The concept of "weaponized compassion" where good actions are used to control or manipulate others -• The idea that true worship is essential and cannot be excluded in favor of other good works -• The concept of compassion being used as a means to an end, rather than an inherent value -• The recognition that the worship of God is what provides for all things in life -• The supreme value of Jesus outweighing other values and responsibilities -• The importance of prioritizing one's relationship with Jesus over material wealth or social status -• The idea that Jesus' love drives him to bear the weight of sin on behalf of others, and his sacrifice on the cross is a demonstration of this love -• Jesus' anointing prepares him for his death -• The disciples didn't understand the significance of the anointing -• Worship is about being present and focused in times of uncertainty or adversity -• Being a follower of Jesus means being willing to face challenges and persecution -• The word "Christian" was initially used as an insult, implying that those who followed Jesus were anointed (Christ-like) and worthy of suffering. -• The word "Christian" originated as an insult, but its meaning has evolved to signify sharing in the anointing of Jesus. -• Being a Christian means sharing in Christ's anointing and doesn't necessarily mean living a good life or trying to be obedient to God. -• True Christianity is about worship and acknowledging one's need for a savior due to personal failure and imperfection. -• The supreme value of Jesus being true is essential because without it, people are left with only their own failures. -• The difference between attention-seeking behaviors and true worship -• The importance of focusing on Jesus as the ultimate source of life and worth -• Ordering one's life in relationship with Jesus -• Prioritizing Jesus above all other claims and things -• Anticipating and reflecting on Jesus' sacrifice during Holy Week -• Worship of Jesus as Lord and King -• Praise for God's excellence and inspiration -• Recognition of Jesus' role as Savior and anointed one -• Acknowledgment of God's love, justice, and humility -• Glorification of God's power, honor, and glory -• Discussion about palm branches in worship -• Discussing Holy Week and its significance -• Using wreaths as a symbol to share with the community -• Sharing a prayer of protection and blessing from God -• Expressing praise for God's greatness and wonder -• Softly playing the piano in accompaniment \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - April 10, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - April 10, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b2b1b55db99bf6b6f3df35f55f2ce555349a8a34..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - April 10, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2074 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 4.40] More than my feet could ever want -[4.40 --> 8.08] And my faith will be made stronger -[8.08 --> 12.08] In the presence of my Savior -[28.24 --> 28.92] Okay -[28.92 --> 29.92] Peace -[29.92 --> 59.90] Thank you. -[59.92 --> 89.90] Thank you. -[89.92 --> 119.90] Thank you. -[119.92 --> 149.90] Thank you. -[149.92 --> 151.92] Thank you. -[179.92 --> 181.92] Thank you. -[209.92 --> 211.92] Thank you. -[239.92 --> 241.92] Thank you. -[269.92 --> 271.92] Thank you. -[299.92 --> 301.92] Thank you. -[329.92 --> 331.92] Thank you. -[331.92 --> 333.92] Thank you. -[333.92 --> 335.92] Thank you. -[335.92 --> 337.92] Thank you. -[337.92 --> 343.92] Thank you. -[343.92 --> 347.92] Thank you. -[347.92 --> 358.82] Good morning. -[359.44 --> 360.04] Buenos dias. -[361.38 --> 365.38] Welcome to our church. -[365.86 --> 367.16] Bienvenidos a nuestra iglesia. -[367.68 --> 369.02] My name is Chris. -[369.20 --> 371.00] I'm one of the pastors here, -[371.00 --> 373.62] and it's my privilege, along with these others, -[373.78 --> 376.94] to lead us in worship this morning. -[376.94 --> 380.62] If you look around and you see a bunch of palm branches waving, -[380.76 --> 381.74] there's a reason for that. -[381.82 --> 382.88] Who's got their palm branches? -[384.50 --> 385.44] Excellent, Haley. -[386.34 --> 389.30] There are plenty for more than just the kids, -[389.68 --> 391.66] and so if you would like a palm branch, please. -[392.48 --> 393.18] I don't want to. -[393.54 --> 394.00] Hey, Rich. -[394.82 --> 396.10] Rich, sport, Rich. -[396.90 --> 398.96] Rich, are there still palm branches back there? -[399.52 --> 400.80] All right, so there's lots. -[401.42 --> 402.66] So if you want one during our worship, -[402.78 --> 406.10] please go grab one or five or the like, -[406.10 --> 408.54] and we will use that in our singing together. -[410.58 --> 413.32] Just want to make a couple announcements before we begin. -[413.58 --> 415.82] First of all, as it is Palm Sunday, -[416.00 --> 417.76] that marks the beginning of Holy Week, -[417.98 --> 421.62] and so we will gather for worship on Good Friday -[421.62 --> 423.60] in the evening at 6 p.m. -[423.92 --> 425.90] You're invited to join us for that. -[426.04 --> 428.00] Invite your family, friends, neighbors, -[428.54 --> 431.62] as we gather to remember the death of Jesus. -[431.62 --> 434.50] And then we will gather again on Easter Sunday -[434.50 --> 437.66] at a regular time of 10 a.m. -[439.18 --> 443.16] Also, just a reminder that the sign-up for pastor's class -[443.16 --> 445.56] can happen at the welcome table, -[445.68 --> 447.28] the children's worship time table back there, -[447.36 --> 450.40] and so if you are thinking about profession of faith -[450.40 --> 452.90] or if you have questions about membership in our church, -[452.96 --> 455.52] that's a great place to start that conversation. -[455.80 --> 457.52] And so you can sign up there afterwards, -[457.60 --> 459.06] or you can grab me, ask questions, -[459.06 --> 460.56] and I'll work through that with you. -[461.18 --> 462.40] And then also just a reminder, -[462.40 --> 466.34] although based on the spam of messages -[466.34 --> 468.18] I got this morning on Instagram, -[468.42 --> 469.42] you don't need the reminder. -[469.62 --> 471.52] We are in the midst of Treat Tag here -[471.52 --> 473.66] for the month of, thank you, -[474.04 --> 475.62] for the month of April. -[475.88 --> 477.86] And so if you don't know what that is, -[478.04 --> 480.76] check out our YouTube channel and see the video there. -[481.52 --> 483.16] And thank you to everybody -[483.16 --> 485.72] who's been eagerly participating in that -[485.72 --> 488.96] and sharing that and developing our community in that way. -[489.06 --> 492.12] One more. -[492.82 --> 496.60] After church, there is the Mexico Mission lunch. -[497.16 --> 499.58] And so we're going to gather and have a luncheon, -[499.90 --> 500.84] soup and buns, -[501.02 --> 502.58] and hear stories from those -[502.58 --> 505.48] who went on the Mexico Mission trip a couple weeks ago. -[505.64 --> 508.20] And so you are invited to stick around for that. -[508.88 --> 509.88] Dolores, apologies, -[510.08 --> 511.56] but even if you didn't bring buns, -[512.14 --> 513.68] you're allowed to stick around for that lunch. -[514.54 --> 516.28] You just have to leave $5 or something. -[516.28 --> 516.70] No, I'm kidding. -[517.60 --> 518.94] Please stick around for lunch -[518.94 --> 520.52] and let's enjoy that time together. -[522.00 --> 524.58] I'm going to begin us with a reading of Scripture -[524.58 --> 525.70] and then God's greeting. -[525.82 --> 526.88] So I'm going to, as you are able, -[527.08 --> 527.92] invite you to stand. -[528.34 --> 529.86] We can gather in God's presence together. -[529.86 --> 540.38] Scripture from Mark 11. -[542.18 --> 545.10] As they approached Jerusalem -[545.10 --> 547.82] and came to Bethpage and Bethany -[547.82 --> 549.40] at the Mount of Olives, -[550.84 --> 555.02] Jesus and His disciples went in -[555.02 --> 557.76] and they brought to Jesus the colt -[557.76 --> 564.10] and they threw their cloaks over it and he sat on it. Many people spread their cloaks out on the -[564.10 --> 570.32] road and while others spread branches that they had cut in the fields. And those that went ahead -[570.32 --> 577.36] and those who followed shouted, Hosanna, Hosanna, blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. -[577.36 --> 584.34] Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David. Hosanna in the highest. -[584.34 --> 594.72] This morning we join our voices with the church throughout time and space to sing Hosanna to our -[594.72 --> 605.52] Lord. We gather in the presence of our God and so receive his greeting. Grace, mercy, peace to you. -[606.28 --> 613.56] God our father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, son, our savior and king, and through the presence and power -[613.56 --> 618.80] the Holy Spirit. Amen. Hosanna. Let's worship God together. -[620.42 --> 623.56] Good morning everyone and welcome to our Palm Sunday service. -[624.00 --> 627.86] Kids, can I see your palm branches? Yeah, and adults too if you want. -[628.26 --> 633.14] We have a couple of Hosanna songs here today so when we sing those feel free to come up to the front -[633.14 --> 637.50] and wave your palm branches around and go up and down the aisles. Have a little bit of fun. -[637.50 --> 643.40] It's a fun Sunday today. Our call to worship is from Psalms 118. -[644.16 --> 650.62] Oh give thanks to the Lord for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever. Let Israel say, -[650.88 --> 657.00] his steadfast love endures forever. Let the house of Aaron say, his steadfast love endures forever. -[657.00 --> 662.40] Let those who fear the Lord say, his steadfast love endures forever. -[662.40 --> 687.74] Come, now is the time to worship. -[687.74 --> 712.74] Come, now is the time to give your heart. Come, just as you are to worship. Come, just as you are before your God. Come. -[712.74 --> 722.74] One day every tongue will confess you are God. One day every knee will bow. -[722.74 --> 730.74] Still the greatest treasure remains for those who gladly choose you now. -[730.74 --> 760.72] Come, now is the time to worship. Come, just as you are before your heart. Come, just as you are before your heart. -[760.72 --> 761.34] Come, just as you are before your heart. Come. -[761.34 --> 762.72] Come, just as you are before your heart. Come, just as you are surrounded. -[762.72 --> 766.72] Come, just as you are before your heart. Come, just as you are before your heart. Come, just as you are before your heart. -[766.72 --> 773.72] One day every tongue will confess you are God. One day every knee will bow. -[773.72 --> 781.50] Still the greatest treasure remains for those who gladly choose you now. -[783.50 --> 789.98] Willingly we choose to surrender our lives, willingly our knees will bow. -[791.22 --> 797.72] With all our heart, soul, mind and strength, we gladly choose you now. -[797.72 --> 807.72] Come, now is the time to worship you. -[808.50 --> 814.72] Come, now is the time to give your heart. -[816.08 --> 822.72] Come, just as you are to worship you. -[822.72 --> 831.90] Come, just as you are before your God. -[832.64 --> 832.94] Come. -[832.94 --> 842.86] Come, just as you are before your heart. -[842.86 --> 854.60] Praise His rising -[854.60 --> 860.04] Eyes are turning to You -[860.04 --> 863.86] We turn to You -[863.86 --> 869.60] Hope is stirring -[869.60 --> 874.76] Hearts are yearning for You -[874.76 --> 879.04] We long for You -[879.04 --> 882.42] Cause when we see You -[882.42 --> 886.22] We find strength to face the day -[886.22 --> 889.58] In Your presence -[889.58 --> 893.34] All our fears are washed away -[893.34 --> 896.22] Washed away -[896.22 --> 900.38] Hosanna -[900.38 --> 903.88] Hosanna -[903.88 --> 908.22] You are the God who saves us -[908.22 --> 911.48] Worthy of all our praises -[911.48 --> 915.26] Hosanna -[915.26 --> 919.42] Hosanna -[919.42 --> 922.92] Come have Your way among us -[922.92 --> 927.42] We welcome You here Lord Jesus -[927.42 --> 938.70] Hear the sound of hearts returning to You -[938.70 --> 941.86] We turn to You -[941.86 --> 947.76] In Your kingdom -[947.76 --> 949.60] Broken -[949.60 --> 952.86] Your lives are made new -[952.86 --> 956.74] You make us new -[956.74 --> 960.36] Cause when we see You -[960.36 --> 964.06] We find strength to face the day -[964.06 --> 968.22] Hosanna -[968.22 --> 969.22] In Your presence -[969.22 --> 971.22] All our fears are washed away -[971.22 --> 973.22] Washed away -[973.22 --> 978.22] Hosanna -[978.22 --> 979.22] Hosanna -[979.22 --> 985.22] You are the God who saves us -[985.22 --> 988.38] Worthy of all our praises -[988.38 --> 990.38] Hosanna -[990.38 --> 992.38] Hosanna -[992.38 --> 993.38] Hosanna -[993.38 --> 994.38] Hosanna -[994.38 --> 996.38] Come have Your way among us -[996.38 --> 998.38] We welcome You here Lord Jesus -[998.38 --> 1000.38] Hosanna -[1000.38 --> 1002.38] Hosanna -[1002.38 --> 1007.54] Hosanna -[1007.54 --> 1011.54] Hosanna -[1011.54 --> 1013.54] You are the God who saves us -[1013.54 --> 1014.58] Hosanna -[1014.58 --> 1016.54] Hosanna -[1016.54 --> 1018.54] You are the God who saves us -[1018.54 --> 1019.54] Worthy of all our praises -[1019.54 --> 1021.54] Hosanna -[1021.54 --> 1021.92] Hosanna -[1021.92 --> 1022.04] Hosanna -[1022.04 --> 1023.04] Hosanna -[1023.04 --> 1024.38] Come have Your way among us -[1024.38 --> 1026.54] Hosanna -[1026.54 --> 1027.54] Hosanna -[1027.54 --> 1028.54] Hosanna -[1028.54 --> 1029.54] Hosanna -[1029.54 --> 1030.04] Hosanna -[1030.04 --> 1030.54] Hosanna -[1030.54 --> 1034.40] We welcome you here, Lord Jesus. -[1045.98 --> 1048.68] We raise our praises to you, Lord Jesus. -[1049.14 --> 1051.80] Hosanna, Hosanna to our God and King. -[1052.60 --> 1056.20] We confess that our praise of your majesty has often been faint. -[1056.20 --> 1066.16] You walked this earth, made your dwelling among us, and yet we fail to recognize you and offer honor and glory for the sacrifice of your body. -[1066.88 --> 1073.54] For our eyes have wandered from you, and we have surrendered to the enemy by our known and our secret sins. -[1074.42 --> 1076.72] For our treason you died, Lord Jesus. -[1077.48 --> 1079.42] For our restoration you rose again. -[1079.42 --> 1087.78] Draw us closer to you in this holy week, that our eyes may catch the vision of your tears, and our hearts the wonder of your grace. -[1088.58 --> 1093.92] By the Holy Spirit's continuing discipline, let us be loyal and loving servants of the King. -[1094.86 --> 1097.90] In the face of fear, may we still sing Hosanna. -[1098.34 --> 1101.78] In the face of uncertainty, may we praise your name. -[1102.38 --> 1107.20] May our eyes be fixed on you, that we may praise you and declare it is well. -[1107.20 --> 1107.28] Amen. -[1109.42 --> 1110.42] Amen. -[1110.42 --> 1111.42] Amen. -[1139.42 --> 1142.62] Amen. -[1144.20 --> 1158.64] Amen. -[1169.42 --> 1178.86] And through it all, through it all, my eyes are on you -[1178.86 --> 1185.82] Through it all, through it all, it is well -[1185.82 --> 1195.10] Through it all, through it all, my eyes are on you -[1195.10 --> 1197.78] And it is well -[1197.78 --> 1201.78] With me -[1201.78 --> 1217.62] Far be it from me to not believe -[1217.62 --> 1224.72] Even when my eyes can't see -[1224.72 --> 1231.72] And this mountain that's in front of me -[1231.72 --> 1238.72] Will be thrown into the midst of the sea -[1238.72 --> 1247.72] Through it all, through it all, my eyes are on you -[1247.72 --> 1254.72] Through it all, through it all, it is well -[1254.72 --> 1261.72] Through it all, through it all, my eyes are on you -[1261.72 --> 1268.72] It is well, it is well -[1268.72 --> 1275.72] So let go my soul and trust in Him -[1275.72 --> 1282.72] The waves and winds still know His name -[1282.72 --> 1297.72] So let go my soul and trust in Him -[1297.72 --> 1304.72] The waves and winds still know His name -[1304.72 --> 1308.72] So let go my soul and trust in Him -[1308.72 --> 1312.72] The waves and winds still know His name -[1312.72 --> 1319.72] The waves and winds still know His name -[1319.72 --> 1323.72] The waves and winds still know His name -[1323.72 --> 1330.72] It is well -[1330.72 --> 1332.72] It is well -[1332.72 --> 1336.72] With my soul -[1336.72 --> 1337.72] With my soul -[1337.72 --> 1343.72] With my soul -[1343.72 --> 1344.72] It is well -[1344.72 --> 1346.72] It is well -[1346.72 --> 1350.72] With my soul -[1350.72 --> 1351.72] It is well -[1351.72 --> 1357.72] With my soul -[1357.72 --> 1358.72] It is well -[1358.72 --> 1359.72] It is well -[1359.72 --> 1364.72] It is well -[1364.72 --> 1365.72] With my soul -[1365.72 --> 1366.72] It is well -[1366.72 --> 1371.72] With my soul -[1371.72 --> 1375.72] It is well -[1375.72 --> 1377.72] It is well -[1377.72 --> 1379.72] It is well -[1379.72 --> 1384.72] With my soul -[1384.72 --> 1385.72] With my soul -[1385.72 --> 1404.72] It is well -[1404.72 --> 1406.72] With my soul -[1406.72 --> 1412.72] It is well -[1412.72 --> 1417.72] With my soul -[1419.72 --> 1425.72] It is well -[1426.72 --> 1432.72] With my soul -[1433.72 --> 1437.72] It is well -[1437.72 --> 1440.72] It is well -[1441.72 --> 1445.72] With my soul -[1448.72 --> 1451.72] It is well -[1452.72 --> 1455.72] It is well -[1456.72 --> 1459.72] With my soul -[1459.72 --> 1466.72] It is well -[1467.72 --> 1470.72] It is well -[1471.72 --> 1474.72] With my soul -[1474.72 --> 1481.72] Through it all -[1482.72 --> 1483.72] Through it all -[1484.72 --> 1486.72] My eyes are on you -[1487.72 --> 1489.72] Through it all -[1490.72 --> 1491.72] Through it all -[1492.72 --> 1493.72] It is well -[1494.72 --> 1497.72] Through it all -[1498.72 --> 1499.72] Through it all -[1499.72 --> 1502.72] My eyes are on you -[1503.72 --> 1505.72] And it is well -[1506.72 --> 1508.72] With me -[1508.72 --> 1510.72] With me -[1538.72 --> 1543.72] I see the King of glory -[1544.72 --> 1549.72] Coming on the clouds with fire -[1550.72 --> 1552.72] The whole earth shakes -[1553.72 --> 1556.72] The whole earth shakes -[1557.72 --> 1561.72] I see His love and mercy -[1562.72 --> 1567.72] Washing over all our sin -[1568.72 --> 1570.72] The people sing -[1571.72 --> 1574.72] The people sing -[1575.72 --> 1577.72] Hosanna -[1578.72 --> 1579.72] Hosanna -[1580.72 --> 1581.72] Hosanna -[1582.72 --> 1585.72] Hosanna in the highest -[1587.72 --> 1589.72] Hosanna -[1590.72 --> 1591.72] Hosanna -[1592.72 --> 1593.72] Hosanna -[1593.72 --> 1595.72] Hosanna -[1595.72 --> 1596.72] Hosanna in the highest -[1596.72 --> 1597.72] Hosanna in the highest -[1600.72 --> 1602.72] I see a generation -[1603.72 --> 1606.72] I see a generation -[1607.72 --> 1611.72] Rising up to take their place -[1612.72 --> 1614.72] With selfless faith -[1615.72 --> 1616.72] With selfless faith -[1617.72 --> 1618.72] With selfless faith -[1618.72 --> 1620.72] I see a near revival -[1620.72 --> 1621.72] I see a near revival -[1622.72 --> 1624.72] I see a near revival -[1625.72 --> 1628.72] Stirring as we pray and sing -[1629.72 --> 1630.72] We're on our knees -[1631.72 --> 1632.72] We're on our knees -[1633.72 --> 1634.72] We're on our knees -[1635.72 --> 1636.72] Hosanna -[1637.72 --> 1638.72] Hosanna -[1639.72 --> 1640.72] Hosanna -[1640.72 --> 1642.72] Hosanna -[1643.72 --> 1644.72] Hosanna -[1644.72 --> 1645.72] Hosanna -[1646.72 --> 1647.72] Hosanna -[1647.72 --> 1648.72] Hosanna in the highest -[1648.72 --> 1649.72] Hosanna -[1650.72 --> 1652.72] Hosanna -[1663.72 --> 1664.72] Hosanna -[1665.72 --> 1666.72] Hosanna -[1666.72 --> 1671.40] Heal my heart and make it clean. -[1673.06 --> 1678.16] Open up my eyes to the things unseen. -[1679.54 --> 1686.48] Show me how to love like you have loved me. -[1686.48 --> 1697.48] And break my heart for what breaks yours. -[1697.84 --> 1703.72] Everything I am for your kingdom's cause. -[1704.20 --> 1710.18] As I walk from earth into eternity. -[1710.18 --> 1726.18] Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest. -[1726.18 --> 1738.50] Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest. -[1740.50 --> 1750.18] Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest. -[1750.18 --> 1762.82] Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest. -[1764.96 --> 1769.70] Hosanna in the highest. -[1775.70 --> 1777.58] Make me seated. -[1780.18 --> 1782.26] Hosanna in the highest. -[1795.26 --> 1796.28] Good morning. -[1796.80 --> 1801.44] We continue to worship our God with the giving of our gifts. -[1802.60 --> 1808.08] For the budget, which is the administration of the church and its ministries. -[1808.08 --> 1814.20] And the special offering, which is for the Langley Manual Refugee Committee. -[1814.62 --> 1821.24] And I'm going to get Peter Van Heusen to give us an update on the committee's work. -[1821.50 --> 1822.94] Thank you, Emo, for sure. -[1824.08 --> 1827.20] Buenos Dios, Congregación. -[1827.20 --> 1833.88] Today, saludos de Sebastián Sandi, Sarah and baby Giulietto. -[1833.88 --> 1845.08] So, yeah, Jackie and I are enjoying having the family over as Pearl and John take a break in Kelowna. -[1845.14 --> 1847.64] They're not here this morning, so we've had them for three or four days. -[1847.72 --> 1849.64] What a delightful family they are. -[1850.16 --> 1851.42] And we're really enjoying them. -[1851.42 --> 1856.56] So, today, our collection is not specific to this family. -[1856.96 --> 1867.78] We have, as you've known, if you've been following in the bulletin, we have made a connection with the Nehmer family, which are in Lebanon, a Syrian family. -[1867.78 --> 1875.94] By way of the Willoughby CRC, they've all of a sudden had some success in getting applicants coming. -[1876.50 --> 1880.82] So, now we've taken that on through World Renew, and we'll be keeping you posted. -[1880.98 --> 1883.88] And I'll have more to say about that at the congregational meeting. -[1884.54 --> 1888.56] But it's important for us to build up the account. -[1888.68 --> 1891.00] We currently have about $10,000 in there. -[1891.66 --> 1894.94] And there's new requirements now by the government. -[1894.94 --> 1900.02] We have to have the money in the account just prior to the arrival of the family coming. -[1900.18 --> 1905.40] That's sort of the final thing, because I think some people have been reneging on that part of the responsibility. -[1906.56 --> 1920.82] So, if we anticipate maybe in two years the family is coming, and with all the stress and strain that our governments are facing nowadays with refugees and the like, it's a huge challenge. -[1920.82 --> 1925.10] So, yeah, we're looking eventually for having $40,000 in the account. -[1925.28 --> 1928.70] So, give as the Lord has given you generously as we hear each Sunday. -[1929.02 --> 1933.52] This church has been absolutely amazing at receiving the refugee family. -[1933.70 --> 1939.06] Nashwan and Fadja's family, the Murads, are currently in their church. -[1939.12 --> 1942.18] Even last Sunday they were leading in their church worship. -[1942.70 --> 1945.46] So, we see so many blessings to this ministry. -[1946.04 --> 1947.16] Thank you very much. -[1947.16 --> 1948.76] Thanks, Peter. -[1950.62 --> 1954.76] Yes, please give generously so these families will have a better tomorrow. -[1955.82 --> 1965.30] Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. -[1965.88 --> 1967.60] 2 Corinthians 9, verse 7. -[1968.26 --> 1971.36] Next week's offering is for the budget and edudaio. -[1971.36 --> 1991.70] To God be the glory, great things He has done. -[1991.70 --> 2021.68] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord. -[2021.68 --> 2028.32] O come to the Father through Jesus' Son. -[2028.32 --> 2035.38] And give Him all glory, great things He has done. -[2035.38 --> 2065.36] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord. -[2065.38 --> 2070.38] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord. -[2070.38 --> 2072.38] Let the people rejoice. -[2072.38 --> 2079.54] O come to the Father through Jesus' Son. -[2079.54 --> 2086.86] And give Him all glory, great things He has done. -[2086.86 --> 2095.04] Great things He has taught us, great things He has done. -[2095.04 --> 2101.68] And great are rejoicing through Jesus the Son. -[2101.68 --> 2107.68] But pure and higher and greater will be. -[2107.68 --> 2114.68] Our wonder, our transport, when Jesus we see. -[2114.68 --> 2118.68] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord. -[2118.68 --> 2121.68] Let the earth hear His voice. -[2121.68 --> 2125.68] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord. -[2125.68 --> 2128.68] Let the people rejoice. -[2128.68 --> 2135.68] O come to the Father through Jesus' Son. -[2135.68 --> 2144.68] And give Him all glory, great things He has done. -[2158.68 --> 2163.68] Good morning, everyone. -[2163.68 --> 2165.68] I got a couple hats I got to wear today. -[2165.68 --> 2169.68] Today I'm giving you some council updates from our last meeting. -[2169.68 --> 2171.68] And then after that I got children's worship time. -[2171.68 --> 2173.68] So you guys just got to hang tight for a minute. -[2173.68 --> 2174.68] Is that okay? -[2174.68 --> 2175.68] Zoe, you okay with that? -[2175.68 --> 2176.68] Okay. -[2176.68 --> 2181.68] Alright, I just want to give you guys a little update on what council has been up to at our last meeting. -[2181.68 --> 2183.68] We had a meeting a couple weeks ago. -[2183.68 --> 2189.68] At the meeting, Tracy Van Heusen came and gave a report on a ministry. -[2189.68 --> 2191.68] I got to put my glasses on. -[2191.68 --> 2196.68] I was hoping I didn't have to do this. -[2196.68 --> 2203.68] Tracy gave a report on the ministry evaluation and a structural review of our church at Emmanuel. -[2203.68 --> 2208.68] We learned a lot from the review and from the input many of you gave for this report. -[2208.68 --> 2214.68] We will use this information as a foundation for some strategic planning at Emmanuel. -[2214.68 --> 2221.68] Some of the questions we will be wrestling with as council is who are we as Emmanuel and where is God working among us? -[2221.68 --> 2224.68] Who is God calling to us? -[2224.68 --> 2227.68] Who is God calling us to be in the future? -[2227.68 --> 2229.68] And how are we going to get there? -[2229.68 --> 2233.68] Stay tuned for some action items that will come from this report. -[2233.68 --> 2235.68] Thanks Tracy for the work on this. -[2235.68 --> 2242.68] We also had a discussion about two of our council members that have resigned in the last couple months. -[2242.68 --> 2247.68] One resigned due to sudden work-life balance challenges that made serving on council difficult. -[2247.68 --> 2257.68] And the other resigned over difference of opinion on the position the elders took in their statement regarding COVID protocols and the proof of vaccination. -[2257.68 --> 2265.68] Both of these members are still active in other areas of Emmanuel church life and still appreciate being a vital part of the Emmanuel community. -[2265.68 --> 2272.68] Since both these members terms were up this June we decided as council not to try and fill these positions for the short term. -[2272.68 --> 2281.68] But this leads me to the discussion we had at council about new office fairs that we need for the upcoming this spring. -[2281.68 --> 2284.68] We are in need of three new elders and two deacons. -[2284.68 --> 2290.68] So if you know someone or you are interested please contact your elder or myself. -[2290.68 --> 2295.68] There is nomination information on this in the e-bulletin. -[2295.68 --> 2299.68] We also had discussion about classes since classes happened at the beginning of March. -[2299.68 --> 2304.68] A number of us were there so we each gave a brief report on our time there at classes. -[2304.68 --> 2309.68] And there was some discussion about some of the topics that came up at that meeting. -[2309.68 --> 2312.68] Our Lord's Supper is next week Sunday. -[2312.68 --> 2314.68] It's Easter weekend. -[2314.68 --> 2318.68] We at council ask you to please prepare yourself for this time of communion. -[2318.68 --> 2323.68] And as well speak to your children about this and share what it means to participate in Lord's Supper. -[2323.68 --> 2333.68] And to end things off I got bribed by John in the back there with a roll of peppermints that his wife Helen is turning 70 today. -[2333.68 --> 2340.68] So I think if you turn 70 you should be honoured in a special way so I think we could give her a round of applause for making it to 70. -[2340.68 --> 2344.68] applause -[2344.68 --> 2348.68] Alright that's it for me. -[2348.68 --> 2352.68] Okay kids we can head up front for children's worship. -[2352.68 --> 2365.68] I'm super, super fun. -[2365.68 --> 2366.68] You are. -[2366.68 --> 2368.68] Do you think you can move back a little bit? -[2368.68 --> 2370.68] Alright good morning everyone. -[2370.68 --> 2371.68] How are all the kids? -[2371.68 --> 2372.68] Good. -[2372.68 --> 2374.68] Do you think you can say that a little louder? -[2374.68 --> 2375.68] How are you? -[2375.68 --> 2377.68] Awesome. -[2377.68 --> 2379.68] I got a question for you guys. -[2379.68 --> 2381.68] How do you guys like spring right now? -[2381.68 --> 2383.68] Like winter's kind of behind us like. -[2383.68 --> 2384.68] I love it. -[2384.68 --> 2385.68] What do you like? -[2385.68 --> 2387.68] I get my birthday today. -[2387.68 --> 2388.68] Your birthday's today too? -[2388.68 --> 2390.68] I get my birthday today. -[2390.68 --> 2391.68] I'm going here. -[2391.68 --> 2392.68] She's got the same birthday as Helen. -[2392.68 --> 2393.68] How old are you? -[2393.68 --> 2394.68] I'm going to have a party. -[2394.68 --> 2395.68] Four. -[2395.68 --> 2396.68] I'm going to have a party. -[2396.68 --> 2397.68] Alright. -[2397.68 --> 2398.68] No, I'm going to have a party. -[2398.68 --> 2399.68] Okay. -[2399.68 --> 2400.68] We're going to get back to spring. -[2400.68 --> 2402.68] What do you guys, I want to hear what you guys like about spring. -[2402.68 --> 2404.68] What are some things you like about spring? -[2404.68 --> 2405.68] Zoe. -[2405.68 --> 2406.68] No snow. -[2406.68 --> 2407.68] No snow. -[2407.68 --> 2408.68] Anybody else? -[2408.68 --> 2410.68] What do you like about spring? -[2410.68 --> 2412.68] That it changes weather. -[2412.68 --> 2413.68] The weather changes? -[2413.68 --> 2414.68] Yeah. -[2414.68 --> 2415.68] Flowers. -[2415.68 --> 2416.68] Flowers are coming up. -[2416.68 --> 2417.68] I like the flowers too. -[2417.68 --> 2418.68] Flowers are good. -[2418.68 --> 2423.68] It starts to get warmer. -[2423.68 --> 2424.68] You could do more stuff outside. -[2424.68 --> 2426.68] What are some things you like to do outside? -[2426.68 --> 2427.68] Yeah. -[2427.68 --> 2432.68] Get your pool going and go for a swim. -[2432.68 --> 2433.68] Haley, what do you like? -[2433.68 --> 2436.68] I like that my daddy can set up my trampoline. -[2436.68 --> 2437.68] Trampoline time. -[2437.68 --> 2438.68] Yeah. -[2438.68 --> 2443.68] It gets, spring days get longer. -[2443.68 --> 2444.68] The days get longer. -[2444.68 --> 2445.68] Yeah. -[2445.68 --> 2446.68] Great answer. -[2446.68 --> 2447.68] One more. -[2447.68 --> 2448.68] One more. -[2448.68 --> 2449.68] Playing outside and I can play very few things. -[2449.68 --> 2453.68] Playing outside like soccer or hide and seek or all kinds of cool stuff. -[2453.68 --> 2457.68] I know there's some kids in this, in sports, some kids are playing lots of ball hockey. -[2457.68 --> 2458.68] That's cool too in the spring. -[2458.68 --> 2459.68] Okay. -[2459.68 --> 2460.68] What else happens in spring? -[2460.68 --> 2462.68] The spring reminds me a lot of good things too. -[2462.68 --> 2465.68] Like who knows what's happening next weekend? -[2465.68 --> 2466.68] What's happening next weekend? -[2466.68 --> 2467.68] Easter Sunday. -[2467.68 --> 2468.68] Easter Sunday. -[2468.68 --> 2469.68] What happens on Easter Sunday? -[2469.68 --> 2470.68] Who can give me a quick summary? -[2470.68 --> 2471.68] Quick summary. -[2471.68 --> 2472.68] Quick summary. -[2472.68 --> 2475.68] Jesus dies on the cross for our sins. -[2475.68 --> 2477.68] So that's what reminds me a bit about spring. -[2477.68 --> 2481.68] The flowers, the longer days, the nicer weather and also Easter. -[2481.68 --> 2484.68] So today we are going to have a conversation in the back. -[2484.68 --> 2486.68] We're going to talk about how Jesus died on the cross. -[2486.68 --> 2488.68] Chickens wake up. -[2488.68 --> 2489.68] Alright. -[2489.68 --> 2494.68] So we're going to talk about how Jesus died on the cross in the children's worship time today. -[2494.68 --> 2499.68] So we will, why don't we have a quick prayer and then we're going to give the blessing. -[2499.68 --> 2500.68] Okay. -[2500.68 --> 2501.68] Let's do the prayer first. -[2501.68 --> 2503.68] Dear God, thank you for this day. -[2503.68 --> 2505.68] Thank you for another beautiful spring day. -[2505.68 --> 2510.68] Thank you that we can worship you today at Emmanuel and thank you for all these children. -[2510.68 --> 2519.68] And I pray that you will bless their time in children's worship time and that they will hear your word and learn from it and bless all the teachers too. -[2519.68 --> 2520.68] Lord for Jesus sake. -[2520.68 --> 2521.68] Amen. -[2521.68 --> 2522.68] Alright. -[2522.68 --> 2523.68] Let's give the blessing. -[2523.68 --> 2524.68] Everyone rise. -[2524.68 --> 2525.68] Okay. -[2525.68 --> 2526.68] Ready? -[2526.68 --> 2527.68] The Lord be with you. -[2527.68 --> 2528.68] And all who will be with you. -[2528.68 --> 2529.68] Okay. -[2529.68 --> 2530.68] Ready? -[2530.68 --> 2531.68] The Lord be with you. -[2531.68 --> 2532.68] And all who will be with you. -[2532.68 --> 2558.68] And all who will be with you. -[2558.68 --> 2559.68] My name is Kevin Lobert. -[2559.68 --> 2565.68] I'm the youth pastor here and it's my privilege to lead you all in today's congregational prayer. -[2565.68 --> 2573.68] So if you all bow your heads with me, we'll pray. -[2573.68 --> 2577.68] Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. -[2577.68 --> 2581.68] We give you praise for you are our God. -[2581.68 --> 2586.68] As we sang this morning, Hosanna God to you be all the glory. -[2586.68 --> 2591.68] We thank you Lord for your work in our lives and for the gift of your son. -[2591.68 --> 2598.68] As we reflect on how he triumphantly entered as a king into Jerusalem during Holy Week on this Palm Sunday. -[2598.68 --> 2606.68] May we remember Jesus that you are our king sovereignly reigning from your throne over your kingdom. -[2606.68 --> 2613.68] May your kingdom come and your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. -[2613.68 --> 2618.68] Lord Jesus, our world seems to be tearing apart. -[2618.68 --> 2620.68] War is prevalent. -[2620.68 --> 2626.68] We think especially of countries like Ukraine as they continue to resist attacks from Russia. -[2626.68 --> 2631.68] We think of countries like Myanmar, Syria, Libya, Mali and Colombia. -[2631.68 --> 2634.68] All of which who are going through terrible civil wars. -[2635.68 --> 2640.68] As people are displaced in these countries, may you show them mercy. -[2640.68 --> 2645.68] Let us, your global church, be your hands and feet for them. -[2645.68 --> 2648.68] May your kingdom come, Lord. -[2648.68 --> 2654.68] We think especially of the family that came through our church doors looking for asylum from Colombia. -[2654.68 --> 2667.68] We thank you for the hospitality of those who have opened their doors for this family. -[2667.68 --> 2673.68] May you bless our efforts as we do our best to help them. -[2673.68 --> 2688.68] And we ask, Lord, for wisdom both for us and the Canadian government as we move forward. -[2688.68 --> 2690.68] May we seek what is best for them. -[2690.68 --> 2693.68] May you provide for them. -[2693.68 --> 2698.68] Lord, be with our country who is divided on so many things. -[2698.68 --> 2703.68] Bring understanding and empathy and cause unity, Lord. -[2703.68 --> 2705.68] Be with our leaders as well, Father. -[2705.68 --> 2708.68] May they seek your will as they lead. -[2708.68 --> 2715.68] Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors. -[2715.68 --> 2719.68] We thank you for everything you have blessed us with, Lord. -[2719.68 --> 2721.68] We have so much. -[2721.68 --> 2726.68] And yet, Lord Jesus, even in our providence, we need so much. -[2726.68 --> 2730.68] We think of those struggling with their physical or mental health. -[2730.68 --> 2733.68] For those who have anxiety or depression. -[2733.68 --> 2739.68] Those who are grieving, frustrated, confused, lonely, or afraid. -[2739.68 --> 2742.68] Father, give all of us what we need. -[2742.68 --> 2746.68] And may we as a church surround each other with love and understanding. -[2746.68 --> 2754.68] Lord, we especially think this time for the university and college-aged folks in our congregation, Lord, -[2754.68 --> 2757.68] as this semester is coming to an end. -[2757.68 --> 2762.68] As they are neck deep in papers and preparing for exams and the end of the semester, -[2762.68 --> 2763.68] will you be with them? -[2763.68 --> 2769.68] Remove any fear and anxiety in their lives and allow them to finish this semester strong. -[2769.68 --> 2773.68] Finally, Father, we ask for forgiveness. -[2773.68 --> 2776.68] Forgiveness when we know we have sinned. -[2776.68 --> 2780.68] Forgiveness when we don't even realize we are sinning. -[2780.68 --> 2785.68] In our stubbornness and in our ignorance, grant us forgiveness, we pray. -[2785.68 --> 2792.68] And Lord, if we need to forgive others, Holy Spirit, stir in our hearts right now. -[2792.68 --> 2795.68] Show us those who need our forgiveness. -[2795.68 --> 2798.68] Let our hearts burn for them. -[2798.68 --> 2805.68] And let us not let our pride or anger get in the way of what you call us to do. -[2805.68 --> 2810.68] May we forgive as you call us to forgive. -[2810.68 --> 2815.68] And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. -[2815.68 --> 2817.68] You are our Savior. -[2817.68 --> 2821.68] You have given us immeasurable gifts of love and grace. -[2821.68 --> 2826.68] You have also promised that you will always give us a way out when we are tempted to sin. -[2826.68 --> 2831.68] May your Spirit stir in our hearts, God, and grant us understanding when we are tempted. -[2831.68 --> 2833.68] Keep the evil one away from us. -[2833.68 --> 2838.68] And may we remember and know that you are forever nearby when we are tempted to stray. -[2838.68 --> 2844.68] And as we open your word here in a few moments, we pray that you will be with Pastor Chris. -[2844.68 --> 2847.68] May he speak your words to us, not his. -[2847.68 --> 2856.68] And may, Lord, we have open ears, soft hearts, and curious minds to engage your holy word this morning. -[2856.68 --> 2861.68] For yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever. -[2861.68 --> 2862.68] Amen. -[2874.68 --> 2875.68] Amen. -[2875.68 --> 2876.68] Amen. -[2876.68 --> 2877.68] Amen. -[2877.68 --> 2878.68] Amen. -[2878.68 --> 2879.68] Amen. -[2879.68 --> 2882.68] Amen. -[2882.68 --> 2896.68] I'm going to continue in our Palm Sunday service by reflecting on a text and a story from the -[2896.68 --> 2899.68] Gospel of Mark that comes after Palm Sunday, actually. -[2899.68 --> 2905.94] actually. We're going to read from Mark 14. I'm going to read verse 1 through 11. So, as always, -[2906.04 --> 2911.26] I encourage you to have a Bible, have that open in front of you, and keep it open as we go through -[2911.26 --> 2913.90] this time together. Let me read with you. -[2917.44 --> 2924.62] Now, the Passover and the festival of unleavened bread were only two days away, and the chief -[2924.62 --> 2930.58] priests and teachers of the law were scheming to arrest Jesus secretly and to kill him. -[2931.46 --> 2938.26] But not during the festival, they said, or the people may riot. While he was in Bethany, -[2938.92 --> 2945.48] reclining at the table in the home of Simon the leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very -[2945.48 --> 2953.96] expensive perfume made of pure nard. He broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head. -[2955.58 --> 2959.42] Some of those who were present were saying indignantly to one another, -[2960.06 --> 2964.92] why this waste of perfume? It could have been sold for more than a year's wages, -[2965.34 --> 2969.22] and the money given to the poor, and they rebuked her harshly. -[2971.00 --> 2979.12] Leave her alone, Jesus said. Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing. -[2979.12 --> 2986.30] The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them anytime you want, but you will not -[2986.30 --> 2995.26] always have me. She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial. -[2995.26 --> 3006.70] Truly, I tell you, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her. -[3006.70 --> 3014.34] Then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went to the chief priests to betray Jesus to them. -[3015.14 --> 3018.62] And they were delighted to hear this and promised to give him money, -[3018.92 --> 3023.08] so he watched for an opportunity to hand him over. -[3023.08 --> 3025.32] Word of the Lord. -[3025.32 --> 3036.20] We started our worship this morning by explaining Palm Sunday, -[3036.78 --> 3041.86] and we've worshipped for the last while with palm branches in our singing and in our praying, -[3042.10 --> 3044.04] and with kids marching around. -[3044.92 --> 3050.78] I imagine on that day 2,000 years ago, kids were just as unruly then as they are now, -[3050.78 --> 3055.68] and so if that upsets you a little bit, we're just living history, friends. -[3056.58 --> 3058.20] So let's enjoy that together. -[3061.66 --> 3065.92] Palm Sunday announces Jesus as king. -[3066.82 --> 3069.26] A particular kind of king, absolutely, right? -[3069.28 --> 3074.30] A king who rides in on a donkey, a king who is heralded by praise, -[3074.54 --> 3076.76] and I love the way Luke tells the story, -[3076.76 --> 3080.76] that even if the people didn't praise him, the stones would have. -[3082.84 --> 3085.92] This year, in our text for this morning, -[3086.04 --> 3091.80] I'm going to pick up on another focus that comes on this same day in the Christian calendar. -[3091.96 --> 3094.66] Sometimes we call that the liturgical calendar. -[3095.52 --> 3100.38] I want to focus not on the theme of Palm Sunday and the kingship of Jesus, -[3100.52 --> 3103.06] but on the themes of Passion Sunday. -[3103.06 --> 3108.02] Now, that word passion here doesn't mean lots of emotion, -[3108.16 --> 3110.12] although that's part of it, absolutely, right? -[3110.26 --> 3114.14] Passion here in this context of the liturgical calendar, -[3114.28 --> 3115.48] the movements of the church, -[3115.82 --> 3120.76] refers to the love of Jesus for his people that led him to the cross. -[3121.82 --> 3125.78] The love of Jesus that caused him to endure all that suffering -[3125.78 --> 3128.70] in the last week of his life, but even before. -[3128.70 --> 3137.96] Now, the story that we read here in Mark 14 happens a couple days after the events of the palms -[3137.96 --> 3140.18] and Jesus entering to Jerusalem. -[3140.36 --> 3143.80] And so, to superimpose this text over our calendar, -[3143.94 --> 3146.24] or to impose our calendar over this text, -[3146.54 --> 3150.92] that means this is probably a Tuesday night or a Wednesday afternoon kind of event. -[3150.92 --> 3154.92] Now, I say that here by way of introduction -[3154.92 --> 3161.44] because sometimes it's easy for us to forget that this actually happened, -[3161.98 --> 3165.24] that this story is history. -[3166.40 --> 3169.22] One of the amazing things about Christianity, -[3169.66 --> 3172.94] or part of what makes Christianity amazing and unique, -[3173.12 --> 3176.54] is that it's based on and in history. -[3176.54 --> 3180.88] These aren't just stories or myths made up to understand the world. -[3181.22 --> 3183.86] We understand the world by these stories and myths -[3183.86 --> 3187.98] because they happened in the world around us. -[3188.78 --> 3192.06] God really did create the world according to his word, -[3192.16 --> 3196.42] and he really did promise to enter into his creation. -[3196.74 --> 3199.82] Jesus really is the son of God who took on flesh -[3199.82 --> 3204.46] and became a man like us in every way except without sin. -[3204.46 --> 3207.54] This is a true story. -[3208.74 --> 3209.86] Let me be clear. -[3210.00 --> 3215.02] Not just my truth, but history truth. -[3215.54 --> 3217.06] It actually happened. -[3217.24 --> 3221.34] And so, given that, given that it actually happened, -[3221.48 --> 3226.96] it only makes sense that this story has an effect on the present. -[3228.16 --> 3232.74] The past, by definition, brings about the present. -[3232.74 --> 3240.10] And so, Jesus' actions in the past will bring about our reality in the present. -[3240.54 --> 3241.94] Now, I'm a student of history. -[3242.26 --> 3243.76] That's just how history works. -[3244.00 --> 3247.06] But that might seem like a silly thing to say, -[3247.22 --> 3250.10] but in our age of expressive individualism, -[3250.20 --> 3251.52] or perspectival realism, -[3251.76 --> 3254.36] or absolute relativity, post-modernity, -[3254.42 --> 3255.40] whatever you want to call it, -[3255.66 --> 3258.30] it actually doesn't seem like that's a logical thing to say anymore. -[3258.30 --> 3264.30] But, here's why I think this text, -[3264.50 --> 3266.06] this actual history, -[3266.26 --> 3269.76] this real story matters today. -[3271.44 --> 3273.52] You see, in this story, -[3274.18 --> 3278.64] is that the supreme value of Jesus -[3278.64 --> 3286.70] far outweighs all other things of worth in this life. -[3286.70 --> 3293.12] The supreme value of Jesus far outweighs all other things of worth in this life. -[3293.54 --> 3294.04] That's it. -[3294.60 --> 3297.10] That's the point of this story. -[3300.22 --> 3304.20] Now, before we get into that, -[3304.28 --> 3307.46] let me anticipate a couple of your objections. -[3308.68 --> 3310.80] Now, first, some of you might say, -[3310.80 --> 3312.70] well, of course he thinks that. -[3312.76 --> 3313.50] He's the pastor. -[3314.24 --> 3315.64] He has to think that. -[3315.88 --> 3318.08] He's dedicated his life to that truth. -[3318.18 --> 3319.68] And so, he needs it to be true. -[3320.82 --> 3321.92] And in a sense, you're right. -[3322.12 --> 3323.76] I do need it to be true. -[3324.50 --> 3327.18] But not because I've dedicated my life to it. -[3327.98 --> 3329.72] I don't need this to be true -[3329.72 --> 3331.68] for my power, or my privilege, -[3331.80 --> 3333.18] or for my station in life. -[3333.38 --> 3334.78] I need this to be true -[3334.78 --> 3336.98] because we all need this to be true. -[3336.98 --> 3340.56] I'll come back to that at the end. -[3341.48 --> 3344.30] But let me anticipate also a second objection. -[3345.82 --> 3347.30] You might say something like, -[3347.36 --> 3349.22] or someone might say to you one day, -[3349.74 --> 3352.94] sure, you can say that this is true for you, -[3353.08 --> 3355.10] and maybe it is for you. -[3355.80 --> 3358.90] You can even say that it's true for all Christians, -[3359.38 --> 3361.58] right, people who have chosen to believe in the Bible -[3361.58 --> 3363.32] and what it says about God and stuff. -[3363.56 --> 3365.98] But you can't say it's true for everyone. -[3365.98 --> 3369.20] You can't say that Jesus has supreme value for everyone -[3369.20 --> 3371.34] because that's just a little bit arrogant -[3371.34 --> 3373.92] and probably also a little bit ignorant -[3373.92 --> 3375.92] because there's so many people who don't know Jesus -[3375.92 --> 3378.08] and he can't be the most valuable thing to them -[3378.08 --> 3379.12] because they don't know him. -[3382.10 --> 3383.42] That's a great objection. -[3384.38 --> 3387.24] I say great because I love that conversation. -[3388.64 --> 3390.82] I'm going to poke at this one a little bit more -[3390.82 --> 3393.32] throughout our time together. -[3393.32 --> 3395.90] And so, keeping those objections in your mind, -[3396.76 --> 3399.08] let me remind you of what we're looking at, right? -[3399.14 --> 3401.84] The supreme value of Jesus far outweighs -[3401.84 --> 3406.12] all other things of worth in this life. -[3406.76 --> 3408.12] And so, under that banner, -[3408.42 --> 3411.90] let's look again at the story to see how we get there. -[3412.34 --> 3415.60] First, notice what we read in the first verse. -[3415.60 --> 3418.24] Now, the Passover and the festival of unleavened bread -[3418.24 --> 3421.88] were only two days away. -[3421.88 --> 3424.36] Jump down to verse 3. -[3424.52 --> 3427.68] Well, he, Jesus, was in Bethany. -[3428.74 --> 3431.58] He was in the home of Simon the leper. -[3432.68 --> 3434.98] And then, near the end, verse 10, -[3435.34 --> 3437.70] then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve. -[3438.62 --> 3439.62] Now, why do I point these out? -[3439.68 --> 3440.66] Why do I think this is important? -[3440.66 --> 3444.62] These, what we just looked at here, -[3444.94 --> 3448.12] are all markers of specificity. -[3449.46 --> 3449.70] Right? -[3450.20 --> 3452.84] They specify a certain time, -[3453.32 --> 3454.62] two days before the Passover. -[3454.62 --> 3457.96] It's a specificity of place. -[3458.36 --> 3459.72] He was eating in Bethany. -[3460.34 --> 3463.34] And there's a specificity of the people involved. -[3463.70 --> 3463.84] Right? -[3463.96 --> 3466.08] Simon the leper and Judas Iscariot. -[3466.40 --> 3471.36] And piling on all these specific and particular details -[3471.36 --> 3473.74] is a way that Mark says to us, -[3473.90 --> 3474.90] this is real. -[3475.42 --> 3476.70] This really happened. -[3476.90 --> 3479.14] There are really people that you can check up -[3479.14 --> 3481.10] in this story with. -[3481.68 --> 3481.78] Right? -[3482.54 --> 3484.50] Specificity is a witness -[3484.50 --> 3487.84] to the historical truth of this story. -[3490.62 --> 3493.06] Bethany is a town -[3493.06 --> 3495.62] just a short journey away from Jerusalem. -[3495.62 --> 3497.14] It's like a bedroom community -[3497.14 --> 3499.52] on the other side of the Mount of Olives. -[3500.30 --> 3501.60] And there, in Bethany, -[3501.78 --> 3504.12] is the home of Simon the leper. -[3505.06 --> 3507.62] Now, Simon is a really common name -[3507.62 --> 3511.66] in the Second Temple Jewish era and time -[3511.66 --> 3512.92] that this was written. -[3513.18 --> 3517.44] And so, the epithet or the sobriquet, -[3517.66 --> 3520.30] the nickname Simon the leper, -[3520.88 --> 3521.48] is added. -[3522.26 --> 3523.14] Now, leprosy, -[3524.08 --> 3525.12] for those of you who don't know, -[3525.20 --> 3527.88] is a bacterial infection of the skin -[3527.88 --> 3530.08] and the flesh that causes sores -[3530.08 --> 3531.32] and severe rashes -[3531.32 --> 3532.76] and even nerve damage. -[3534.10 --> 3535.76] And for most ancient people, -[3535.76 --> 3538.44] even actually in some parts -[3538.44 --> 3539.34] of the world today, -[3539.74 --> 3541.00] if you have leprosy, -[3541.12 --> 3543.48] you are marked out as unclean -[3543.48 --> 3545.80] and you had to live outside -[3545.80 --> 3546.74] of the community. -[3546.98 --> 3548.60] You had to go to a special camp -[3548.60 --> 3550.04] that was outside -[3550.04 --> 3551.58] and you could belong there -[3551.58 --> 3553.04] in the colony of lepers. -[3553.88 --> 3554.96] This is also true -[3554.96 --> 3556.08] and explicitly so -[3556.08 --> 3557.40] for Jewish people. -[3557.58 --> 3558.34] Leviticus 13 -[3558.34 --> 3559.94] has a whole chapter of rules -[3559.94 --> 3560.64] about what to do -[3560.64 --> 3561.30] with people with -[3561.30 --> 3562.70] this kind of disease. -[3562.70 --> 3565.84] Now, what that means, right, -[3565.90 --> 3567.38] for us in understanding this story -[3567.38 --> 3568.26] is that Simon -[3568.26 --> 3570.86] probably had leprosy -[3570.86 --> 3572.04] at some point. -[3572.36 --> 3574.16] Notice the past tense there, right? -[3574.34 --> 3575.88] Because he is able currently -[3575.88 --> 3577.10] to host a group of people -[3577.10 --> 3577.78] in his house. -[3578.72 --> 3580.42] Maybe even some of the Pharisees -[3580.42 --> 3581.42] and the chief priests -[3581.42 --> 3582.28] and temple officials, -[3582.66 --> 3583.42] the people who would be -[3583.42 --> 3584.24] really concerned -[3584.24 --> 3585.04] about whether or not -[3585.04 --> 3587.08] they are ceremoniously unclean. -[3588.06 --> 3589.84] And so, what that means is, right, -[3589.84 --> 3592.16] that Simon has probably been cured -[3592.16 --> 3593.50] by this point. -[3594.28 --> 3597.40] Maybe even cured by Jesus. -[3598.20 --> 3598.72] Maybe. -[3600.44 --> 3603.90] But that he had leprosy -[3603.90 --> 3605.32] is a marker -[3605.32 --> 3608.14] of his specific identity. -[3608.42 --> 3609.56] He is signaled out -[3609.56 --> 3610.68] by this history. -[3611.10 --> 3611.90] And the point here -[3611.90 --> 3612.62] is that a man -[3612.62 --> 3614.94] who is wealthy enough -[3614.94 --> 3616.50] to have a home large enough -[3616.50 --> 3617.92] to host a group of people -[3617.92 --> 3618.86] of this size, -[3619.26 --> 3621.38] who is connected enough -[3621.38 --> 3622.66] to know Jesus -[3622.66 --> 3624.04] and the chief priests -[3624.04 --> 3624.76] and officials, -[3625.36 --> 3626.74] and who had leprosy -[3626.74 --> 3627.68] but has been healed, -[3628.18 --> 3629.24] that kind of man -[3629.24 --> 3630.10] would be known -[3630.10 --> 3630.90] and remembered. -[3634.16 --> 3634.68] Again, -[3635.42 --> 3636.92] all these markers -[3636.92 --> 3638.92] of specificity -[3638.92 --> 3639.74] tell us -[3639.74 --> 3640.84] that this story -[3640.84 --> 3642.42] really happened. -[3642.90 --> 3643.68] And it's actually -[3643.68 --> 3645.12] a way of Mark saying, -[3645.54 --> 3647.10] I dare you to fact check me. -[3648.70 --> 3649.18] Right? -[3649.28 --> 3650.20] Go check and talk -[3650.20 --> 3650.70] to these people. -[3650.76 --> 3651.44] You know who they are. -[3653.50 --> 3654.76] And if these markers -[3654.76 --> 3655.98] of specificity -[3655.98 --> 3656.92] tell us -[3656.92 --> 3657.52] that the story -[3657.52 --> 3658.56] really happened, -[3658.82 --> 3659.06] that is, -[3659.14 --> 3660.62] if this part is real, -[3661.54 --> 3662.86] then the second part -[3662.86 --> 3664.00] is real. -[3664.06 --> 3665.20] And if the whole story -[3665.20 --> 3665.90] is true, -[3666.22 --> 3666.90] then the point -[3666.90 --> 3667.92] that Jesus makes, -[3668.04 --> 3669.30] the point that Mark -[3669.30 --> 3669.98] is making -[3669.98 --> 3671.22] in recording this story -[3671.22 --> 3672.04] in this way -[3672.04 --> 3673.46] must also -[3673.46 --> 3674.80] be true. -[3674.80 --> 3679.60] So look at the second half -[3679.60 --> 3679.88] then, -[3680.32 --> 3680.86] verse 3. -[3682.98 --> 3683.78] A woman came -[3683.78 --> 3685.16] with an alabaster jar -[3685.16 --> 3686.68] of very expensive perfume -[3686.68 --> 3689.02] made of pure nard. -[3690.04 --> 3690.98] She broke the jar -[3690.98 --> 3692.54] and poured the perfume -[3692.54 --> 3694.14] on his head. -[3696.38 --> 3696.96] Now, first, -[3697.96 --> 3698.78] comment about the -[3698.78 --> 3700.78] jar of perfume. -[3700.78 --> 3703.16] Mark tells us -[3703.16 --> 3705.30] that the alabaster jar -[3705.30 --> 3707.46] of very expensive perfume -[3707.46 --> 3708.90] is worth more -[3708.90 --> 3710.34] than a year's wages. -[3711.14 --> 3712.90] There's a parallel story -[3712.90 --> 3714.48] to this one -[3714.48 --> 3715.70] told in John's Gospel -[3715.70 --> 3717.12] that says that the jar -[3717.12 --> 3718.24] was a pint jar. -[3718.82 --> 3719.64] So you all know -[3719.64 --> 3720.72] how big a pint is, -[3720.78 --> 3720.98] right? -[3720.98 --> 3723.74] If you don't, -[3723.80 --> 3724.22] talk to me. -[3724.28 --> 3725.08] We'll grab one this week -[3725.08 --> 3725.60] and I'll show you. -[3726.90 --> 3728.18] We know how big a pint is. -[3728.22 --> 3729.34] So it's a relatively -[3729.34 --> 3730.24] large jar -[3730.24 --> 3731.22] but not incredibly, -[3731.38 --> 3732.24] like it's not a barrel, -[3733.06 --> 3733.26] right? -[3733.28 --> 3734.12] This is expensive -[3734.12 --> 3735.40] stuff. -[3735.82 --> 3736.54] The Greek text, -[3736.72 --> 3736.92] actually, -[3737.02 --> 3737.66] this story, -[3737.88 --> 3738.88] the whole New Testament -[3738.88 --> 3739.24] really, -[3739.48 --> 3740.42] was originally written -[3740.42 --> 3740.92] in Greek -[3740.92 --> 3742.66] and it says there -[3742.66 --> 3743.38] that it was worth -[3743.38 --> 3744.78] 300 denarii. -[3745.60 --> 3745.78] Now, -[3745.84 --> 3747.02] a single denarii -[3747.02 --> 3748.62] is a day's wage. -[3749.58 --> 3750.06] And so, -[3750.58 --> 3752.40] 300 working days -[3752.40 --> 3752.96] in a year, -[3753.12 --> 3753.40] roughly, -[3753.84 --> 3755.00] in the ancient world. -[3755.26 --> 3756.28] Extrapolate that out. -[3756.62 --> 3757.34] What we get here -[3757.34 --> 3758.00] is more than -[3758.00 --> 3759.26] a year's wages. -[3759.72 --> 3759.88] Now, -[3759.94 --> 3760.22] let me -[3760.22 --> 3762.28] modernize that, -[3763.38 --> 3763.64] right? -[3763.74 --> 3765.38] And this is an analogy -[3765.38 --> 3766.46] so I know analogies -[3766.46 --> 3767.02] all break down -[3767.02 --> 3767.64] at some point -[3767.64 --> 3768.68] but let me -[3768.68 --> 3769.64] modernize that for us. -[3769.74 --> 3771.22] Even conservatively, -[3771.82 --> 3773.80] let's assume -[3773.80 --> 3775.74] a living wage -[3775.74 --> 3776.66] for the greater -[3776.66 --> 3777.52] Vancouver area -[3777.52 --> 3778.30] of approximately -[3778.30 --> 3779.60] $22 an hour. -[3780.64 --> 3781.72] Working eight hours -[3781.72 --> 3782.18] a day -[3782.18 --> 3783.78] for 300 days. -[3784.44 --> 3785.58] That comes out -[3785.58 --> 3787.00] to $52,000 -[3787.00 --> 3789.02] or $52,800. -[3790.60 --> 3791.54] But remember, -[3792.20 --> 3793.70] this is a super luxury item -[3793.70 --> 3794.70] and so maybe -[3794.70 --> 3795.80] it's worth comparing -[3795.80 --> 3796.58] to more than -[3796.58 --> 3798.12] a minimal yearly salary. -[3798.88 --> 3799.24] We don't know -[3799.24 --> 3800.26] the price details -[3800.26 --> 3801.38] but the parallel -[3801.38 --> 3801.90] that I'm trying -[3801.90 --> 3802.56] to make is here -[3802.56 --> 3803.54] is that this isn't -[3803.54 --> 3804.58] a little jar of perfume -[3804.58 --> 3805.04] that you buy -[3805.04 --> 3805.74] for Mother's Day. -[3806.02 --> 3807.18] This is your new truck. -[3808.30 --> 3810.24] Right? -[3810.28 --> 3810.78] This isn't that -[3810.78 --> 3811.46] bottle of cologne -[3811.46 --> 3811.98] that you bought -[3811.98 --> 3812.38] your dad -[3812.38 --> 3812.98] that he still -[3812.98 --> 3813.94] keeps in the closet -[3813.94 --> 3814.78] and hasn't looked at. -[3814.94 --> 3816.10] This is your new Tesla. -[3818.98 --> 3819.98] All of that -[3819.98 --> 3821.04] value -[3821.04 --> 3823.72] for one -[3823.72 --> 3825.06] moment -[3825.06 --> 3826.52] of worship. -[3826.52 --> 3831.00] Now, -[3831.00 --> 3833.86] hang on to that idea -[3833.86 --> 3834.38] for a moment -[3834.38 --> 3836.26] and hold it -[3836.26 --> 3837.10] here -[3837.10 --> 3838.20] because there's -[3838.20 --> 3838.82] one more thing -[3838.82 --> 3839.78] that we need to see -[3839.78 --> 3840.74] before we turn -[3840.74 --> 3841.44] that next corner -[3841.44 --> 3842.02] into that. -[3843.82 --> 3844.68] With all the -[3844.68 --> 3845.70] specificity -[3845.70 --> 3847.00] of this text, -[3847.80 --> 3849.44] why is this -[3849.44 --> 3849.78] woman -[3849.78 --> 3850.36] unnamed? -[3850.36 --> 3853.86] Now, -[3853.90 --> 3854.20] let me be -[3854.20 --> 3855.04] really clear -[3855.04 --> 3856.20] because this -[3856.20 --> 3856.76] is a debated -[3856.76 --> 3857.24] thing. -[3858.24 --> 3859.16] I don't believe -[3859.16 --> 3859.82] that this woman -[3859.82 --> 3860.68] is unnamed -[3860.68 --> 3862.54] not because -[3862.54 --> 3863.60] she is a woman -[3863.60 --> 3865.36] and not because -[3865.36 --> 3866.14] that this is -[3866.14 --> 3868.14] a patriarchal text -[3868.14 --> 3869.16] in a patriarchal -[3869.16 --> 3869.84] culture -[3869.84 --> 3870.38] even though there -[3870.38 --> 3871.06] are lots of people -[3871.06 --> 3871.54] who say that -[3871.54 --> 3872.12] that's the reason -[3872.12 --> 3872.44] why. -[3873.20 --> 3873.96] The reason I don't -[3873.96 --> 3874.62] think that is the -[3874.62 --> 3875.22] case here -[3875.22 --> 3876.46] is because -[3876.46 --> 3877.14] all throughout -[3877.14 --> 3877.84] the Gospels -[3877.84 --> 3878.62] there are women -[3878.62 --> 3879.56] who are mentioned -[3879.56 --> 3880.34] by name -[3880.34 --> 3881.22] in support of -[3881.22 --> 3882.04] Jesus and who -[3882.04 --> 3882.98] function alongside -[3882.98 --> 3883.84] of the disciples -[3883.84 --> 3884.98] as missionaries -[3884.98 --> 3885.38] with him. -[3885.68 --> 3886.36] We hear story -[3886.36 --> 3886.80] after story -[3886.80 --> 3887.46] of Mary and -[3887.46 --> 3887.78] Martha, -[3887.98 --> 3888.36] of Joanna -[3888.36 --> 3889.00] and Susanna, -[3889.20 --> 3890.00] of Salome -[3890.00 --> 3890.66] and at least -[3890.66 --> 3891.54] two other women -[3891.54 --> 3892.22] named Mary, -[3892.62 --> 3893.26] three if you -[3893.26 --> 3893.70] count Jesus' -[3893.88 --> 3894.06] mother. -[3895.44 --> 3896.22] And we know -[3896.22 --> 3898.30] that she's -[3898.30 --> 3900.20] not unnamed -[3900.20 --> 3901.06] in this text -[3901.06 --> 3902.22] because she's -[3902.22 --> 3903.32] not worth less -[3903.32 --> 3904.76] than the others -[3904.76 --> 3906.06] by the very fact -[3906.06 --> 3906.66] that Jesus -[3906.66 --> 3907.74] praises her -[3907.74 --> 3908.28] actions -[3908.28 --> 3909.24] and he says -[3909.24 --> 3910.08] that her actions -[3910.08 --> 3911.00] are worth more -[3911.00 --> 3911.84] than all of these -[3911.84 --> 3912.38] other people. -[3912.60 --> 3912.94] He says, -[3913.28 --> 3914.30] truly I tell you -[3914.30 --> 3915.14] wherever the gospel -[3915.14 --> 3915.68] is preached -[3915.68 --> 3916.42] throughout the world -[3916.42 --> 3917.56] what she has done -[3917.56 --> 3918.74] will also be told -[3918.74 --> 3919.64] in memory -[3919.64 --> 3920.64] of her. -[3921.02 --> 3922.66] And I love -[3922.66 --> 3923.36] that line -[3923.36 --> 3924.90] because right now -[3924.90 --> 3925.28] here, -[3925.48 --> 3925.82] today, -[3926.10 --> 3927.08] as we remember -[3927.08 --> 3927.36] her, -[3927.46 --> 3928.12] as we remember -[3928.12 --> 3928.54] the beauty -[3928.54 --> 3929.24] of her actions -[3929.24 --> 3930.14] we are fulfilling -[3930.14 --> 3931.06] what Jesus said. -[3933.48 --> 3934.48] And so instead -[3934.48 --> 3936.50] I think that -[3936.50 --> 3937.72] she is unnamed -[3937.72 --> 3939.34] because it -[3939.34 --> 3940.48] increases the -[3940.48 --> 3941.18] shame -[3941.18 --> 3942.00] of those -[3942.00 --> 3942.72] around her -[3942.72 --> 3943.30] who should -[3943.30 --> 3943.78] know better. -[3945.14 --> 3946.38] She is a foil -[3946.38 --> 3947.66] for pointing out -[3947.66 --> 3948.42] the assumptions -[3948.42 --> 3949.60] of the people -[3949.60 --> 3950.24] in power -[3950.24 --> 3950.78] and the people -[3950.78 --> 3951.40] who are supposed -[3951.40 --> 3952.28] to be in the know. -[3952.94 --> 3953.88] She reveals -[3953.88 --> 3955.14] that they don't know -[3955.14 --> 3956.30] and that their status -[3956.30 --> 3957.02] is meaningless -[3957.02 --> 3958.30] because they missed -[3958.30 --> 3959.28] Jesus for who -[3959.28 --> 3960.20] he really is -[3960.20 --> 3961.06] and what he is -[3961.06 --> 3961.64] about to do -[3961.64 --> 3962.14] for them -[3962.14 --> 3962.92] and for us -[3962.92 --> 3963.18] all. -[3964.68 --> 3965.38] This woman -[3965.38 --> 3967.14] presumably a poor -[3967.14 --> 3967.98] woman based on -[3967.98 --> 3968.56] verse 3 -[3968.56 --> 3969.24] or verse 7 -[3969.24 --> 3969.96] which Jesus says -[3969.96 --> 3970.40] the poor you -[3970.40 --> 3970.76] will always -[3970.76 --> 3971.32] have with you -[3971.32 --> 3972.30] this woman -[3972.30 --> 3973.26] got it -[3973.26 --> 3974.48] she figured it -[3974.48 --> 3974.76] out -[3974.76 --> 3975.82] before all -[3975.82 --> 3976.26] the other -[3976.26 --> 3976.62] women -[3976.62 --> 3977.56] in the room -[3977.56 --> 3979.58] and it is -[3979.58 --> 3980.44] beautiful -[3980.44 --> 3981.44] and Jesus -[3981.44 --> 3982.34] says she has -[3982.34 --> 3983.54] done a beautiful -[3983.54 --> 3984.08] thing -[3984.08 --> 3985.14] and she poured -[3985.14 --> 3986.20] perfume on -[3986.20 --> 3986.76] my body -[3986.76 --> 3987.36] beforehand -[3987.36 --> 3988.42] to prepare -[3988.42 --> 3989.08] for my -[3989.08 --> 3990.12] burial. -[3991.84 --> 3992.06] Now -[3992.06 --> 3995.56] let this -[3995.56 --> 3996.22] woman's -[3996.22 --> 3997.50] actions -[3997.50 --> 3999.22] ask you -[3999.22 --> 3999.92] the same -[3999.92 --> 4000.78] question -[4000.78 --> 4001.34] that they -[4001.34 --> 4002.02] asked in -[4002.02 --> 4002.56] that room -[4002.56 --> 4003.44] in that moment -[4003.44 --> 4003.64] right? -[4003.76 --> 4004.38] Unpark that -[4004.38 --> 4004.90] idea that we -[4004.90 --> 4005.28] just pulled -[4005.28 --> 4005.44] out. -[4005.88 --> 4006.58] All that -[4006.58 --> 4007.22] value -[4007.22 --> 4009.08] a truck's -[4009.08 --> 4009.62] worth of -[4009.62 --> 4010.06] worship -[4010.06 --> 4012.12] for one -[4012.12 --> 4012.52] moment -[4012.52 --> 4015.32] would you -[4015.32 --> 4015.68] do the -[4015.68 --> 4015.90] same? -[4018.04 --> 4018.46] Is -[4018.46 --> 4019.00] Jesus -[4019.00 --> 4019.60] is the -[4019.60 --> 4020.26] worship of -[4020.26 --> 4020.62] Jesus -[4020.62 --> 4021.70] worth your -[4021.70 --> 4021.94] new -[4021.94 --> 4022.34] truck? -[4024.72 --> 4025.28] As you -[4025.28 --> 4025.82] ask that -[4025.82 --> 4026.34] question of -[4026.34 --> 4026.60] yourself -[4026.60 --> 4027.20] let me -[4027.20 --> 4027.96] offer just -[4027.96 --> 4028.36] a really -[4028.36 --> 4029.12] quick aside -[4029.12 --> 4029.34] here -[4029.34 --> 4029.58] right? -[4030.62 --> 4031.26] In our -[4031.26 --> 4031.58] worship -[4031.58 --> 4032.04] together -[4032.04 --> 4032.92] sometimes -[4032.92 --> 4034.18] when it -[4034.18 --> 4034.62] comes time -[4034.62 --> 4035.06] to do the -[4035.06 --> 4035.48] offering -[4035.48 --> 4036.08] that slide -[4036.08 --> 4036.78] pops up -[4036.78 --> 4037.22] right? -[4037.28 --> 4037.70] The deacons -[4037.70 --> 4038.06] come up -[4038.06 --> 4038.30] to the -[4038.30 --> 4038.60] front -[4038.60 --> 4039.80] and we -[4039.80 --> 4040.24] go okay -[4040.24 --> 4040.68] now it's -[4040.68 --> 4040.98] time for -[4040.98 --> 4041.28] just a -[4041.28 --> 4041.40] little -[4041.40 --> 4041.74] break -[4041.74 --> 4043.18] right? -[4043.26 --> 4043.64] Maybe we -[4043.64 --> 4044.10] listen to -[4044.10 --> 4044.52] the deacons -[4044.52 --> 4044.94] maybe we -[4044.94 --> 4045.76] don't -[4045.76 --> 4045.98] right? -[4046.02 --> 4046.38] We think -[4046.38 --> 4046.90] that you -[4046.90 --> 4047.02] know -[4047.02 --> 4047.60] charitably -[4047.60 --> 4048.08] this is -[4048.08 --> 4048.64] something we -[4048.64 --> 4049.10] have to -[4049.10 --> 4049.52] do in -[4049.52 --> 4049.82] order to -[4049.82 --> 4050.32] get back -[4050.32 --> 4050.84] to worship -[4050.84 --> 4052.22] right? -[4052.28 --> 4052.96] We know -[4052.96 --> 4053.40] that we -[4053.40 --> 4053.74] need to -[4053.74 --> 4054.32] give in -[4054.32 --> 4054.90] support of -[4054.90 --> 4055.44] the ministries -[4055.44 --> 4055.72] and the -[4055.72 --> 4056.22] missions of -[4056.22 --> 4056.78] this church -[4056.78 --> 4057.76] so that -[4057.76 --> 4058.04] you know -[4058.04 --> 4058.48] we can -[4058.48 --> 4059.26] worship well -[4059.26 --> 4059.78] and so that -[4059.78 --> 4060.06] we can -[4060.06 --> 4061.08] make disciples -[4061.08 --> 4061.60] and we can -[4061.60 --> 4062.32] be used of -[4062.32 --> 4062.72] God to -[4062.72 --> 4063.68] teach new -[4063.68 --> 4064.12] disciples -[4064.12 --> 4064.94] everything that -[4064.94 --> 4065.68] we have -[4065.68 --> 4066.26] learned from -[4066.26 --> 4066.46] him. -[4067.62 --> 4068.36] We know -[4068.36 --> 4068.76] that we -[4068.76 --> 4069.18] need to -[4069.18 --> 4070.08] give to -[4070.08 --> 4070.88] support other -[4070.88 --> 4071.64] causes or -[4071.64 --> 4071.94] other -[4071.94 --> 4072.64] organizations. -[4073.26 --> 4073.68] We might -[4073.68 --> 4074.26] even believe -[4074.26 --> 4074.62] that it's -[4074.62 --> 4075.12] good and -[4075.12 --> 4075.34] it's -[4075.34 --> 4075.90] necessary. -[4077.36 --> 4077.98] But the -[4077.98 --> 4078.38] point of -[4078.38 --> 4078.92] this story -[4078.92 --> 4079.24] or at least -[4079.24 --> 4079.70] one of the -[4079.70 --> 4080.10] points of -[4080.10 --> 4080.68] this story -[4080.68 --> 4081.56] for our -[4081.56 --> 4082.52] offering in -[4082.52 --> 4083.66] worship is -[4083.66 --> 4084.28] that the -[4084.28 --> 4086.08] offering is -[4086.08 --> 4087.30] worship. -[4088.54 --> 4089.72] Your giving -[4089.72 --> 4090.70] is an act -[4090.70 --> 4091.78] of worship. -[4092.00 --> 4092.58] Passing that -[4092.58 --> 4093.32] bag around -[4093.32 --> 4093.88] week after -[4093.88 --> 4094.82] week is a -[4094.82 --> 4095.86] liturgy of -[4095.86 --> 4096.68] trusting in the -[4096.68 --> 4097.28] providence of -[4097.28 --> 4097.68] God and -[4097.68 --> 4098.28] thanking him -[4098.28 --> 4098.60] for his -[4098.60 --> 4099.20] good gifts. -[4099.60 --> 4100.32] Setting up a -[4100.32 --> 4101.30] direct deposit -[4101.30 --> 4103.92] circumstance here -[4103.92 --> 4104.48] in our church -[4104.48 --> 4105.38] so that 10% -[4105.38 --> 4106.18] of your paycheck -[4106.18 --> 4107.08] is automatically -[4107.08 --> 4107.74] sent to the -[4107.74 --> 4108.48] church is a -[4108.48 --> 4108.92] rhythm of -[4108.92 --> 4109.24] worship. -[4109.70 --> 4110.84] Clicking the -[4110.84 --> 4111.76] send button on -[4111.76 --> 4112.74] that e-transfer -[4112.74 --> 4113.88] every week is -[4113.88 --> 4114.68] a liturgy of -[4114.68 --> 4115.32] love and a -[4115.32 --> 4116.22] beautiful expression -[4116.22 --> 4116.98] of God's -[4116.98 --> 4117.68] goodness. -[4119.24 --> 4120.12] And if, as -[4120.12 --> 4120.94] I said that, -[4121.82 --> 4122.78] all you heard -[4122.78 --> 4124.52] was 10%, -[4124.52 --> 4125.74] you've got to -[4125.74 --> 4126.34] be kidding me. -[4127.02 --> 4127.70] I can't live on -[4127.70 --> 4128.50] 10% less than -[4128.50 --> 4129.10] what I'm currently -[4129.10 --> 4129.84] giving or making. -[4131.74 --> 4132.60] You might be in -[4132.60 --> 4132.90] the danger -[4132.90 --> 4133.76] stone of this -[4133.76 --> 4134.10] story. -[4134.10 --> 4139.52] if, on the -[4139.52 --> 4140.12] other hand now, -[4141.90 --> 4143.84] you think that -[4143.84 --> 4145.26] giving a year's -[4145.26 --> 4146.84] salary could -[4146.84 --> 4147.84] solve a lot -[4147.84 --> 4148.58] more, quote, -[4148.86 --> 4149.92] more important -[4149.92 --> 4151.96] problems than -[4151.96 --> 4152.80] our worship, -[4154.80 --> 4155.40] you also, -[4155.96 --> 4156.72] finding yourself -[4156.72 --> 4157.36] in the company -[4157.36 --> 4158.80] of those in -[4158.80 --> 4159.62] this story, -[4159.72 --> 4160.24] the company of -[4160.24 --> 4161.02] people for whom -[4161.02 --> 4161.68] and against -[4161.68 --> 4163.26] whom this -[4163.26 --> 4164.26] unnamed woman -[4164.26 --> 4165.80] is a foil. -[4168.70 --> 4169.56] Some of those -[4169.56 --> 4170.94] present were -[4170.94 --> 4172.10] saying indignantly -[4172.10 --> 4172.82] to one another, -[4174.30 --> 4175.78] why waste this, -[4176.16 --> 4177.52] why this waste -[4177.52 --> 4178.18] of perfume? -[4179.38 --> 4179.76] It could have -[4179.76 --> 4180.38] been sold for -[4180.38 --> 4180.94] more than a -[4180.94 --> 4182.28] year's wages and -[4182.28 --> 4183.02] the money given -[4183.02 --> 4183.70] to the poor, -[4184.02 --> 4185.02] and they rebuked -[4185.02 --> 4186.80] her harshly. -[4191.02 --> 4192.22] There is a -[4192.22 --> 4193.12] question here -[4193.12 --> 4194.66] of competing -[4194.66 --> 4196.12] priorities, -[4196.64 --> 4197.92] because serving -[4197.92 --> 4198.40] the poor is -[4198.40 --> 4200.00] good, right? -[4200.20 --> 4201.58] Giving to other -[4201.58 --> 4202.52] organizations is -[4202.52 --> 4203.40] good, and it is -[4203.40 --> 4204.32] necessary, and it -[4204.32 --> 4205.26] is right, -[4206.86 --> 4208.40] but never, -[4208.78 --> 4210.96] never to the -[4210.96 --> 4213.02] exclusion to -[4213.02 --> 4213.60] worship -[4213.60 --> 4214.86] Jesus. -[4217.16 --> 4218.82] A social -[4218.82 --> 4220.02] philosopher and -[4220.02 --> 4220.76] commentator -[4220.76 --> 4223.12] podcast I -[4223.12 --> 4223.50] listen to -[4223.50 --> 4223.98] regularly, -[4224.18 --> 4224.54] it's called -[4224.54 --> 4225.08] The Symbolic -[4225.08 --> 4225.32] World. -[4225.42 --> 4225.78] His name is -[4225.78 --> 4226.54] Jonathan Peugeot, -[4226.64 --> 4227.14] he's out of -[4227.14 --> 4227.50] Montreal. -[4229.70 --> 4230.54] He actually -[4230.54 --> 4231.26] calls what's -[4231.26 --> 4232.20] going on here -[4232.20 --> 4233.80] weaponized -[4233.80 --> 4234.72] compassion. -[4236.96 --> 4237.46] Weaponized -[4237.46 --> 4238.12] compassion, -[4238.36 --> 4238.74] and so the -[4238.74 --> 4240.12] idea is that -[4240.12 --> 4241.00] you take -[4241.00 --> 4241.52] something that -[4241.52 --> 4242.38] is good, -[4242.56 --> 4243.08] and the -[4243.08 --> 4243.94] need for -[4243.94 --> 4244.46] something, -[4244.54 --> 4245.32] like caring -[4245.32 --> 4245.72] for the -[4245.72 --> 4246.06] poor, -[4246.24 --> 4246.76] and you -[4246.76 --> 4247.30] turn it -[4247.30 --> 4248.14] into a -[4248.14 --> 4249.20] weapon to -[4249.20 --> 4249.90] stop people -[4249.90 --> 4250.38] from doing -[4250.38 --> 4250.98] something that -[4250.98 --> 4253.14] is notably -[4253.14 --> 4254.36] better, -[4255.74 --> 4256.32] the worship -[4256.32 --> 4257.46] Jesus. -[4259.52 --> 4261.22] We live in -[4261.22 --> 4262.28] a society and -[4262.28 --> 4263.52] a culture that -[4263.52 --> 4264.32] weaponizes -[4264.32 --> 4265.44] compassion all -[4265.44 --> 4266.68] the time in -[4266.68 --> 4266.96] order to -[4266.96 --> 4267.82] accomplish this -[4267.82 --> 4269.22] ideal or good -[4269.22 --> 4270.58] or this cultural -[4270.58 --> 4272.52] norm or this -[4272.52 --> 4273.36] or that or the -[4273.36 --> 4274.58] other thing to -[4274.58 --> 4275.96] the exclusion, -[4275.96 --> 4278.28] religion, the -[4278.28 --> 4279.26] recognition and -[4279.26 --> 4280.14] the worship of -[4280.14 --> 4281.84] God provides -[4281.84 --> 4282.36] for it all. -[4284.20 --> 4285.16] The supreme -[4285.16 --> 4285.92] value of -[4285.92 --> 4286.96] Jesus far -[4286.96 --> 4288.16] outweighs all -[4288.16 --> 4289.66] other things of -[4289.66 --> 4290.62] worth in this -[4290.62 --> 4291.82] life, and so -[4291.82 --> 4293.44] the poor you -[4293.44 --> 4294.18] will always have -[4294.18 --> 4294.60] with you. -[4294.72 --> 4295.38] You can help -[4295.38 --> 4296.18] them anytime -[4296.18 --> 4297.30] you want. -[4297.38 --> 4297.74] Notice what -[4297.74 --> 4298.36] Jesus says, -[4298.62 --> 4299.10] right, saying -[4299.10 --> 4299.26] there. -[4299.32 --> 4299.80] He doesn't say -[4299.80 --> 4300.28] don't help -[4300.28 --> 4300.48] them. -[4301.66 --> 4302.14] You could do -[4302.14 --> 4302.74] that anytime, -[4302.74 --> 4303.54] but you -[4303.54 --> 4303.94] will not -[4303.94 --> 4304.82] always have -[4304.82 --> 4305.66] me. -[4307.70 --> 4308.48] Sitting with -[4308.48 --> 4310.44] me is worth -[4310.44 --> 4312.12] even more -[4312.12 --> 4313.46] than this -[4313.46 --> 4315.20] good thing, -[4316.12 --> 4316.78] is even -[4316.78 --> 4318.32] more -[4318.32 --> 4319.62] responsible -[4319.62 --> 4321.54] of you -[4321.54 --> 4322.96] than this -[4322.96 --> 4324.40] other good -[4324.40 --> 4325.52] responsibility. -[4326.74 --> 4327.18] She -[4327.18 --> 4328.18] recognizes -[4328.18 --> 4330.54] that the -[4330.54 --> 4331.46] supreme value -[4331.46 --> 4332.16] of Jesus -[4332.16 --> 4334.48] far outweighs -[4334.48 --> 4338.34] over 300 -[4338.34 --> 4339.64] denarii, -[4339.70 --> 4340.66] over a -[4340.66 --> 4341.16] year's -[4341.16 --> 4342.30] salary. -[4343.08 --> 4343.42] And it -[4343.42 --> 4344.14] is her -[4344.14 --> 4345.74] worship in -[4345.74 --> 4346.42] that moment -[4346.42 --> 4347.82] that Jesus -[4347.82 --> 4348.78] calls. -[4351.22 --> 4351.70] There's a -[4351.70 --> 4353.82] beauty, really, -[4353.96 --> 4354.62] of this -[4354.62 --> 4356.96] moment for -[4356.96 --> 4357.52] worship, -[4358.02 --> 4358.46] the beauty -[4358.46 --> 4359.26] of her -[4359.26 --> 4360.38] actions in -[4360.38 --> 4360.90] worship, -[4361.10 --> 4361.56] is that it's -[4361.56 --> 4363.22] a foreshadowing -[4363.22 --> 4363.96] of what we -[4363.96 --> 4364.38] know the -[4364.38 --> 4364.94] gospel to -[4364.94 --> 4365.16] be. -[4365.66 --> 4366.64] Jesus said, -[4366.78 --> 4367.10] she poured -[4367.10 --> 4367.76] perfume on -[4367.76 --> 4368.18] my body -[4368.18 --> 4368.98] beforehand to -[4368.98 --> 4370.18] prepare for -[4370.18 --> 4371.48] my burial. -[4372.62 --> 4373.08] Jesus is -[4373.08 --> 4373.32] saying, -[4373.76 --> 4374.42] in just a -[4374.42 --> 4375.06] few days, -[4375.16 --> 4375.94] I will -[4375.94 --> 4376.94] die. -[4377.90 --> 4378.62] In just a -[4378.62 --> 4379.08] few days, -[4379.16 --> 4379.88] I will bear -[4379.88 --> 4380.56] the weight -[4380.56 --> 4381.42] of God's -[4381.42 --> 4382.28] wrath for -[4382.28 --> 4382.84] all the -[4382.84 --> 4383.70] sin in -[4383.70 --> 4384.12] the world. -[4384.38 --> 4384.90] I will -[4384.90 --> 4385.48] bear that -[4385.48 --> 4386.02] on my -[4386.02 --> 4386.42] shoulders -[4386.42 --> 4387.30] for you. -[4387.30 --> 4388.14] It is my -[4388.14 --> 4389.12] love that -[4389.12 --> 4390.00] drives me to -[4390.00 --> 4390.56] the cross, -[4390.72 --> 4391.10] and I -[4391.10 --> 4392.06] bear that -[4392.06 --> 4392.82] for you. -[4393.56 --> 4394.08] Jesus has -[4394.08 --> 4394.54] come to -[4394.54 --> 4395.06] live the -[4395.06 --> 4395.58] life I -[4395.58 --> 4395.94] should have -[4395.94 --> 4396.20] lived, -[4396.26 --> 4396.52] and to -[4396.52 --> 4397.00] die the -[4397.00 --> 4397.64] death that -[4397.64 --> 4398.06] I deserve. -[4398.16 --> 4398.58] And in -[4398.58 --> 4399.60] that moment, -[4399.70 --> 4400.40] those three -[4400.40 --> 4401.24] days before, -[4401.42 --> 4401.90] he is -[4401.90 --> 4402.24] saying, -[4402.48 --> 4403.60] don't miss -[4403.60 --> 4404.72] the supreme -[4404.72 --> 4406.00] value of -[4406.00 --> 4406.48] what I -[4406.48 --> 4407.36] do for -[4407.36 --> 4407.72] you. -[4411.72 --> 4412.24] They -[4412.24 --> 4412.70] didn't see -[4412.70 --> 4412.90] it. -[4412.90 --> 4414.28] Jesus -[4414.28 --> 4414.66] knew, -[4415.74 --> 4416.50] but their -[4416.50 --> 4416.94] eyes were -[4416.94 --> 4417.90] focused down -[4417.90 --> 4418.14] here. -[4419.66 --> 4420.50] Her eyes, -[4420.66 --> 4421.48] her eyes -[4421.48 --> 4422.24] were focused -[4422.24 --> 4424.04] on Jesus. -[4426.62 --> 4427.28] Where are -[4427.28 --> 4427.62] your eyes -[4427.62 --> 4428.14] focused? -[4429.66 --> 4430.02] We gather -[4430.02 --> 4430.42] this morning. -[4433.14 --> 4433.50] Jesus' -[4433.70 --> 4434.10] anointing -[4434.10 --> 4434.90] prepares him -[4434.90 --> 4435.82] for what is -[4435.82 --> 4436.22] next, -[4436.56 --> 4436.92] but the -[4436.92 --> 4437.82] disciples didn't -[4437.82 --> 4438.76] even know -[4438.76 --> 4439.48] or fully -[4439.48 --> 4440.30] understand, -[4440.46 --> 4441.10] but she -[4441.10 --> 4442.40] did. -[4442.90 --> 4444.88] Jesus' -[4445.18 --> 4445.80] anointing -[4445.80 --> 4447.04] is an -[4447.04 --> 4447.62] act of -[4447.62 --> 4448.66] worship in -[4448.66 --> 4449.44] the face of -[4449.44 --> 4450.24] whatever comes -[4450.24 --> 4451.18] next, in -[4451.18 --> 4451.70] the face of -[4451.70 --> 4452.42] the unknown -[4452.42 --> 4453.28] next, in -[4453.28 --> 4453.90] the face of -[4453.90 --> 4455.06] the atrocity -[4455.06 --> 4455.62] and the -[4455.62 --> 4456.22] horrors of -[4456.22 --> 4456.76] the cross. -[4457.20 --> 4457.48] Jesus' -[4457.68 --> 4458.40] anointing is -[4458.40 --> 4459.48] an act of -[4459.48 --> 4459.78] worship. -[4459.94 --> 4460.26] And so, -[4460.40 --> 4460.88] for you, -[4461.22 --> 4461.94] whatever comes -[4461.94 --> 4462.78] next, whatever -[4462.78 --> 4464.22] atrocities you -[4464.22 --> 4464.72] face, whatever -[4464.72 --> 4465.56] trials or -[4465.56 --> 4466.44] tribulations or -[4466.44 --> 4467.44] challenges that -[4467.44 --> 4468.08] are in these -[4468.08 --> 4468.80] days ahead, -[4468.80 --> 4473.16] how will -[4473.16 --> 4473.62] you -[4473.62 --> 4475.06] worship? -[4478.90 --> 4480.62] Jesus is -[4480.62 --> 4480.96] anointed. -[4481.10 --> 4482.18] In fact, we -[4482.18 --> 4482.74] call Jesus -[4482.74 --> 4483.36] Messiah. -[4484.36 --> 4485.72] Messiah is a -[4485.72 --> 4487.40] Hebrew word, -[4487.50 --> 4487.78] Messiah. -[4488.22 --> 4488.86] In the New -[4488.86 --> 4489.36] Testament, we -[4489.36 --> 4490.08] call it Christ. -[4490.24 --> 4490.88] That's just the -[4490.88 --> 4492.68] translation of -[4492.68 --> 4493.16] Messiah. -[4493.16 --> 4493.22] Messiah. -[4495.10 --> 4496.40] Jesus is the -[4496.40 --> 4497.10] Messiah, and -[4497.10 --> 4498.06] Messiah in -[4498.06 --> 4499.10] Hebrew means -[4499.10 --> 4500.70] anointed one. -[4502.28 --> 4503.36] He has been -[4503.36 --> 4504.02] anointed, -[4505.30 --> 4505.74] suffer, -[4506.66 --> 4507.40] and die. -[4509.62 --> 4510.60] But did you -[4510.60 --> 4512.60] know that the -[4512.60 --> 4513.52] word Christian, -[4514.06 --> 4515.54] right, the word -[4515.54 --> 4516.30] Christian was -[4516.30 --> 4517.38] first used as -[4517.38 --> 4518.56] an insult to -[4518.56 --> 4519.20] those people who -[4519.20 --> 4519.94] were disciples of -[4519.94 --> 4520.48] Jesus, right? -[4520.50 --> 4521.26] You get that out -[4521.26 --> 4521.90] of 1 Peter, -[4522.00 --> 4522.12] right? -[4522.12 --> 4522.94] If you suffer -[4522.94 --> 4523.94] for being called -[4523.94 --> 4525.14] Christian, right, -[4525.36 --> 4526.76] take it as joy, -[4526.96 --> 4527.58] my brothers and -[4527.58 --> 4527.96] sisters. -[4529.08 --> 4529.62] The word Christian -[4529.62 --> 4530.60] was first meant as -[4530.60 --> 4531.18] an insult, but -[4531.18 --> 4532.06] here in that, -[4532.40 --> 4532.86] Christian, -[4533.08 --> 4533.98] Christos, right, -[4534.22 --> 4535.96] little Christ, so -[4535.96 --> 4536.98] little anointed -[4536.98 --> 4537.46] ones. -[4537.84 --> 4538.40] To be a -[4538.40 --> 4539.70] Christian means to -[4539.70 --> 4540.82] share in the -[4540.82 --> 4542.06] anointing of -[4542.06 --> 4542.48] Jesus. -[4543.40 --> 4544.42] That's what being a -[4544.42 --> 4545.00] Christian means. -[4545.06 --> 4545.54] It doesn't mean -[4545.54 --> 4546.28] first and foremost -[4546.28 --> 4547.38] living a good life. -[4547.44 --> 4547.84] It doesn't mean -[4547.84 --> 4548.68] trying to be obedient -[4548.68 --> 4549.46] to God, although we -[4549.46 --> 4550.12] do both of those -[4550.12 --> 4550.34] things. -[4550.42 --> 4551.16] We long for both -[4551.16 --> 4551.66] of those things. -[4551.66 --> 4552.58] It doesn't mean -[4552.58 --> 4554.44] that we, you -[4554.44 --> 4555.08] know, have it all -[4555.08 --> 4555.78] together and that -[4555.78 --> 4556.28] we're part of a -[4556.28 --> 4557.02] good social club -[4557.02 --> 4557.48] that's going to -[4557.48 --> 4558.00] have soup and -[4558.00 --> 4558.78] buns after church, -[4558.82 --> 4559.38] although that is -[4559.38 --> 4560.10] happening too. -[4560.92 --> 4561.98] Being a Christian -[4561.98 --> 4563.06] first and foremost -[4563.06 --> 4564.52] means to share in -[4564.52 --> 4566.64] the anointing of -[4566.64 --> 4567.48] Christ and in -[4567.48 --> 4568.82] sharing in the -[4568.82 --> 4569.70] anointing of -[4569.70 --> 4572.42] Jesus, we may not -[4572.42 --> 4573.60] know what is next. -[4575.32 --> 4576.90] We too must -[4576.90 --> 4578.12] worship. -[4578.12 --> 4581.54] even if, as we -[4581.54 --> 4582.20] read, you know, -[4582.26 --> 4583.08] Jesus says to -[4583.08 --> 4584.36] daily take up -[4584.36 --> 4585.28] our cross, even -[4585.28 --> 4586.56] if the cross of -[4586.56 --> 4587.68] faith is next -[4587.68 --> 4588.96] for you, we -[4588.96 --> 4590.84] must worship. -[4592.84 --> 4595.22] So, I need -[4595.22 --> 4596.96] this now, we -[4596.96 --> 4598.14] need this now, -[4598.24 --> 4598.98] the supreme -[4598.98 --> 4600.14] value of Jesus -[4600.14 --> 4601.66] to be true -[4601.66 --> 4604.38] because we all -[4604.38 --> 4606.02] need this to be -[4606.02 --> 4606.26] true. -[4606.26 --> 4606.30] true. -[4607.20 --> 4607.90] Here's what I -[4607.90 --> 4608.46] mean when I say -[4608.46 --> 4608.70] that. -[4609.48 --> 4610.04] The supreme -[4610.04 --> 4610.90] value of Jesus -[4610.90 --> 4612.32] is true because -[4612.32 --> 4613.56] I need a -[4613.56 --> 4613.90] savior. -[4614.84 --> 4616.18] When I look at -[4616.18 --> 4617.36] my life, when I -[4617.36 --> 4618.32] look at the -[4618.32 --> 4619.16] world, what I -[4619.16 --> 4620.38] see time and -[4620.38 --> 4621.22] time again is -[4621.22 --> 4622.08] that I can't do -[4622.08 --> 4622.30] it. -[4623.92 --> 4625.66] I fail over and -[4625.66 --> 4626.60] over and over -[4626.60 --> 4626.88] again. -[4627.04 --> 4628.16] I need one who -[4628.16 --> 4629.96] is perfect and -[4629.96 --> 4631.80] Jesus is him. -[4631.90 --> 4632.66] I need the -[4632.66 --> 4633.52] supreme value of -[4633.52 --> 4634.28] Jesus to be true, -[4634.38 --> 4635.46] not because I've -[4635.46 --> 4636.24] bet my life on -[4636.24 --> 4636.68] it, though I -[4636.68 --> 4638.06] have, but -[4638.06 --> 4638.98] because if he -[4638.98 --> 4643.16] is not, this is -[4643.16 --> 4643.68] all we have. -[4645.76 --> 4646.54] Failure is where -[4646.54 --> 4647.66] we stand. -[4649.92 --> 4650.82] And the supreme -[4650.82 --> 4651.90] value of Jesus is -[4651.90 --> 4653.84] true for all of -[4653.84 --> 4655.60] us because we -[4655.60 --> 4656.92] begin to see, -[4657.10 --> 4657.82] even here, -[4658.02 --> 4658.94] through the story -[4658.94 --> 4660.26] of this beautiful -[4660.26 --> 4662.94] woman, we begin -[4662.94 --> 4664.80] to see that we -[4664.80 --> 4665.84] need our -[4665.84 --> 4666.80] priorities. -[4667.60 --> 4668.58] We need those -[4668.58 --> 4670.48] attention-seeking -[4670.48 --> 4671.64] things, those -[4671.64 --> 4673.98] worth-ships, -[4674.04 --> 4674.16] right? -[4674.24 --> 4674.84] The word -[4674.84 --> 4675.50] worship is -[4675.50 --> 4676.26] acknowledging the -[4676.26 --> 4676.80] worth of -[4676.80 --> 4677.76] something to be -[4677.76 --> 4677.96] praised. -[4678.18 --> 4678.70] We need the -[4678.70 --> 4680.10] focus of our -[4680.10 --> 4681.22] activities and -[4681.22 --> 4682.02] our heart's -[4682.02 --> 4682.92] affections. -[4683.32 --> 4684.08] We need those -[4684.08 --> 4685.30] things properly -[4685.30 --> 4687.38] ordered in order -[4687.38 --> 4688.80] to know what is -[4688.80 --> 4689.54] a truly -[4689.54 --> 4691.58] flourishing life. -[4691.76 --> 4692.30] And so to use -[4692.30 --> 4693.02] this story, -[4693.50 --> 4694.90] Jesus and this -[4694.90 --> 4696.32] woman might be -[4696.32 --> 4697.18] the only two -[4697.18 --> 4698.06] people in this -[4698.06 --> 4699.10] story who are -[4699.10 --> 4700.64] truly alive. -[4703.64 --> 4704.32] Because -[4704.32 --> 4706.24] they know. -[4707.24 --> 4708.14] They know who -[4708.14 --> 4709.50] he is and what -[4709.50 --> 4710.18] he has done. -[4710.18 --> 4714.94] Jesus is the -[4714.94 --> 4716.12] ultimate, -[4716.96 --> 4717.46] truly, -[4718.14 --> 4719.42] fully alive, -[4720.10 --> 4721.30] fully human -[4721.30 --> 4722.60] person. -[4724.82 --> 4726.34] And for us to -[4726.34 --> 4728.12] be fully human -[4728.12 --> 4729.24] and fully alive, -[4729.46 --> 4730.28] we must -[4730.28 --> 4732.04] him. -[4732.72 --> 4733.48] And we must -[4733.48 --> 4735.08] order our life -[4735.08 --> 4736.18] in relationship -[4736.18 --> 4737.46] to him. -[4737.46 --> 4740.60] the supreme -[4740.60 --> 4741.78] value of -[4741.78 --> 4742.90] Jesus is -[4742.90 --> 4744.18] greater than -[4744.18 --> 4745.66] all other -[4745.66 --> 4746.90] claims, -[4747.42 --> 4748.50] all other -[4748.50 --> 4749.52] things. -[4749.66 --> 4750.30] And when we -[4750.30 --> 4751.78] begin to see -[4751.78 --> 4753.38] that truth, -[4755.10 --> 4755.62] then, -[4755.92 --> 4756.54] my brothers -[4756.54 --> 4757.12] and sisters, -[4757.86 --> 4758.78] then does -[4758.78 --> 4760.40] life really -[4760.40 --> 4761.58] begin. -[4762.86 --> 4763.16] Amen. -[4764.16 --> 4764.68] Pray together. -[4764.68 --> 4764.80] Amen. -[4767.46 --> 4770.54] Lord our God, -[4770.70 --> 4771.84] focus our -[4771.84 --> 4773.52] hearts on. -[4775.44 --> 4776.24] Focus our -[4776.24 --> 4776.74] loves and -[4776.74 --> 4777.58] affections on -[4777.58 --> 4778.08] you, Lord -[4778.08 --> 4778.34] Jesus. -[4778.48 --> 4779.04] Help us to -[4779.04 --> 4779.84] see you -[4779.84 --> 4781.70] most clearly -[4781.70 --> 4782.92] today. -[4785.50 --> 4786.34] And as we -[4786.34 --> 4787.02] go from this -[4787.02 --> 4787.98] place, may our -[4787.98 --> 4789.44] priorities be -[4789.44 --> 4790.96] reordered to -[4790.96 --> 4791.88] put you -[4791.88 --> 4793.00] as -[4793.00 --> 4794.28] supreme. -[4794.28 --> 4797.84] name you -[4797.84 --> 4799.02] as our -[4799.02 --> 4800.16] all in -[4800.16 --> 4800.52] all. -[4801.72 --> 4802.14] And as we -[4802.14 --> 4802.84] enter into -[4802.84 --> 4803.94] this now -[4803.94 --> 4805.44] holy week, -[4806.72 --> 4807.56] as we -[4807.56 --> 4808.10] anticipate -[4808.10 --> 4809.88] your betrayal, -[4810.66 --> 4811.30] as we -[4811.30 --> 4811.76] anticipate -[4811.76 --> 4813.06] your last -[4813.06 --> 4813.50] supper, -[4814.50 --> 4815.16] as we -[4815.16 --> 4815.68] anticipate -[4815.68 --> 4817.44] your death -[4817.44 --> 4818.18] on the -[4818.18 --> 4818.70] cross, -[4820.70 --> 4821.64] may we -[4821.64 --> 4822.64] fix our -[4822.64 --> 4824.10] eyes firmly -[4824.10 --> 4825.28] on. -[4829.28 --> 4830.38] Go now, -[4830.58 --> 4831.02] Lord God, -[4831.10 --> 4831.62] with our -[4831.62 --> 4832.10] hearts -[4832.10 --> 4833.58] stirred and -[4833.58 --> 4834.66] send us -[4834.66 --> 4835.78] out to -[4835.78 --> 4836.60] stir -[4836.60 --> 4837.82] hearts. -[4839.20 --> 4840.06] In Jesus' -[4840.36 --> 4840.96] name we -[4840.96 --> 4841.28] pray. -[4842.02 --> 4842.40] Amen. -[4852.64 --> 4875.86] my heart is -[4875.86 --> 4878.96] full of -[4878.96 --> 4880.98] admiration -[4880.98 --> 4883.44] for you, -[4883.44 --> 4885.06] my Lord, -[4886.48 --> 4887.90] my God -[4887.90 --> 4889.44] and King. -[4890.44 --> 4891.16] Your -[4891.16 --> 4892.30] excellence, -[4894.44 --> 4895.16] my -[4895.16 --> 4897.18] inspiration, -[4898.44 --> 4899.76] your words -[4899.76 --> 4900.76] of praise -[4900.76 --> 4901.70] have made -[4901.70 --> 4903.30] my spirit -[4903.30 --> 4904.44] sing. -[4904.44 --> 4909.44] all the -[4909.44 --> 4911.44] glory, -[4911.44 --> 4913.44] honor, -[4913.44 --> 4914.98] and power -[4914.98 --> 4915.44] belong -[4915.44 --> 4917.44] to you, -[4917.44 --> 4919.44] belong -[4919.44 --> 4921.44] to you. -[4923.44 --> 4925.60] Jesus, -[4926.60 --> 4927.66] Savior, -[4928.96 --> 4929.44] anointed -[4930.08 --> 4931.06] one, -[4931.18 --> 4932.40] I worship -[4932.40 --> 4933.40] you, -[4933.40 --> 4936.40] I worship -[4936.40 --> 4937.40] you. -[4939.40 --> 4942.46] Your love -[4942.46 --> 4943.40] what's right -[4943.40 --> 4946.26] and hate -[4946.26 --> 4948.08] what's evil, -[4949.08 --> 4949.40] therefore -[4949.94 --> 4951.40] your God -[4951.40 --> 4954.42] sets you -[4954.42 --> 4955.40] on high. -[4955.40 --> 4957.40] and on -[4957.40 --> 4959.40] your head -[4960.76 --> 4961.40] pours -[4961.96 --> 4962.82] oil of -[4962.82 --> 4963.40] blood, -[4963.94 --> 4964.40] yes, -[4964.40 --> 4966.40] while fragrance -[4966.40 --> 4967.36] fills -[4967.36 --> 4968.64] your royal -[4968.64 --> 4970.40] palaces. -[4970.40 --> 4971.40] and on -[4971.40 --> 4972.40] the -[4972.40 --> 4973.40] glory, -[4973.40 --> 4975.40] honor, -[4975.40 --> 4977.40] and power -[4977.40 --> 4978.40] belong -[4978.40 --> 4979.40] to you, -[4979.40 --> 4981.40] belong -[4981.40 --> 4983.40] to you. -[4983.40 --> 4985.40] belong -[4985.40 --> 4987.40] to you. -[4990.40 --> 4991.40] Jesus, -[4992.40 --> 4993.40] Savior, -[4994.40 --> 4995.40] anointed -[4996.40 --> 4997.40] one, -[4997.40 --> 4998.40] I worship -[4998.40 --> 4999.40] you, -[5000.40 --> 5002.40] I worship -[5002.40 --> 5003.40] you. -[5003.40 --> 5004.40] your throne -[5004.40 --> 5010.40] will last -[5010.40 --> 5011.40] forever, -[5011.40 --> 5012.40] justice -[5012.40 --> 5013.40] will be -[5013.40 --> 5014.40] your royal -[5014.40 --> 5015.40] decree -[5015.40 --> 5016.40] in -[5016.40 --> 5017.40] majesty -[5017.40 --> 5030.40] ride out -[5030.40 --> 5032.40] victorious -[5032.40 --> 5034.40] for righteousness, -[5034.40 --> 5035.40] truth, -[5035.40 --> 5038.40] and humility. -[5038.40 --> 5039.40] and humility -[5039.40 --> 5040.40] and humility -[5040.40 --> 5043.40] all the -[5043.40 --> 5044.40] glory, -[5044.40 --> 5045.40] honor, -[5045.40 --> 5046.40] and power -[5046.40 --> 5047.40] belong -[5047.40 --> 5048.40] to you, -[5048.40 --> 5049.40] belong -[5049.40 --> 5050.40] to you. -[5050.40 --> 5051.40] belong -[5051.40 --> 5052.40] to you. -[5052.40 --> 5053.40] belong -[5053.40 --> 5055.40] to you. -[5055.40 --> 5057.40] belong -[5057.40 --> 5058.40] to you. -[5058.40 --> 5059.40] Jesus, -[5061.40 --> 5062.40] Savior, -[5062.40 --> 5063.40] anointed -[5064.40 --> 5065.40] one, -[5065.40 --> 5066.40] I worship -[5066.40 --> 5067.40] you, -[5069.40 --> 5070.40] I worship -[5071.40 --> 5072.40] you. -[5072.40 --> 5073.40] . -[5073.40 --> 5075.40] . -[5075.40 --> 5077.40] . -[5077.40 --> 5078.40] . -[5078.40 --> 5079.40] . -[5079.40 --> 5080.40] . -[5080.40 --> 5081.40] . -[5081.40 --> 5092.40] . -[5092.40 --> 5093.40] . -[5093.40 --> 5094.40] . -[5094.40 --> 5095.40] . -[5095.40 --> 5098.40] As you go, -[5098.40 --> 5099.40] just a note about the palm branches. -[5099.40 --> 5102.40] You might remember we encouraged the same last year. -[5102.40 --> 5104.40] Take those home with you and then, -[5105.40 --> 5107.40] through crafting or otherwise abilities, -[5107.40 --> 5115.16] wise abilities, turn them into a wreath and hang it on your door that you might say to the community, -[5115.16 --> 5125.66] this is holy week. This is week that we come to see Jesus on the cross and that we wait in hope -[5125.66 --> 5133.42] for Sunday. There may be a few extras if you would like to do so. Grab a couple. I know some of you -[5133.42 --> 5136.66] already have plans to share them with your neighbors and people in your communities and -[5136.66 --> 5145.94] buildings, so go ahead and do that. But just take them and turn them into a door hanger or share them -[5145.94 --> 5153.34] with the people around you. As you go this week, go with the blessing of our God. -[5155.08 --> 5163.92] God, go before you to lead you. God, go behind you to guard you. God, go beneath you to support you. -[5163.92 --> 5174.54] And God, go beside you to befriend you. Do not be afraid. Vaya con Dios. Do not be afraid. -[5175.20 --> 5184.14] Vaya con Dios. Go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Amen. -[5184.14 --> 5201.30] Great is he who's the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. He is wonderful. -[5201.30 --> 5214.92] Great is he who's the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. He is wonderful. -[5214.92 --> 5228.72] Great is he who's the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. He is wonderful. -[5228.72 --> 5243.00] Great is he who's the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. He is wonderful. -[5243.00 --> 5258.00] Great is he who's the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. He is wonderful. -[5258.00 --> 5272.92] Great is he who's the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. He is wonderful. -[5272.92 --> 5286.48] Great is He who's the King of Peace, and the Lord of Lords, He is wonderful. -[5287.48 --> 5301.80] Great is He who's the King of Peace, and the Lord of Lords, He is wonderful. -[5302.92 --> 5332.90] piano plays softly -[5332.92 --> 5334.92] piano plays softly -[5334.92 --> 5338.92] piano plays softly -[5338.92 --> 5340.92] piano plays softly -[5340.92 --> 5342.92] piano plays softly -[5342.92 --> 5346.92] piano plays softly -[5346.92 --> 5348.92] piano plays softly -[5348.92 --> 5352.92] piano plays softly -[5352.92 --> 5354.92] piano plays softly -[5354.92 --> 5358.92] piano plays softly -[5358.92 --> 5360.92] piano plays softly -[5360.92 --> 5364.92] piano plays softly -[5364.92 --> 5366.92] piano plays softly -[5366.92 --> 5368.92] piano plays softly -[5368.92 --> 5370.92] piano plays softly diff --git a/Sunday Worship - April 16, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - April 16, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 59b5cf2041bec407139b445e8c1bbfeefda0ce1a..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - April 16, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,98 +0,0 @@ -• Discussion of whether to play a specific song -• Chord progression mentioned -• Repeated requests for someone to repeat something -• Welcome and announcements for worship service -• Young Adults Bible Study announcement -• Overflow parking lot announcement with mention of orange fluorescent cone and mathematical properties of cones -• Upcoming church event: "Raising Kids in a Hyper-Sexualized Culture" on April 23rd at 6 p.m. -• Discussion about raising children in today's culture with guest speakers Marvin Bravo and Faye Martin -• Call to worship from Psalm 100 -• Invitation to lay down failures and addictions at the foot of the cross -• Praise and worship songs focusing on God's love for the world -• Expressions of devotion and praise to God -• Acknowledgments of God's goodness, faithfulness, and love -• Requests for holiness and faithfulness in one's life -• Desires to surrender and conform to God's will -• Reflections on God's nature as a loving and perfect Father -• The speaker talks about identity, specifically emphasizing that it's "who you are" or "who I am" -• The recitation of Micah 6 verse 8 and its meaning in relation to God -• Gems clubs from around the world unite in reciting Micah 6 verse 8 as a form of unity and worship -• The scripture being referenced emphasizes acting justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God -• The speaker encourages girls (and others) to make a difference by following these principles -• A collective Amen is repeated numerous times throughout the transcript -• The speaker expresses awe and adoration for God's power and majesty -• Quotes from scripture, including Revelation and Micah 6:8 -• Discussion of the importance of living out faith in everyday life -• Introduction to the GEMS program, a Christian organization for girls -• Explanation of the GEMS mission and activities -• Announcement of offerings to support the church budget and GEMS Ministry of North America -• Faith and trust in God -• Overcoming darkness and fear with faith -• God's presence and love in difficult times -• Bible study and community (Gems) -• Children's activities and events (Hank the Hound) -• Plans for children's worship time -• Prayers and blessings for the church -• Update from Eric about council meetings and new staff member Maria Wind -• Information about upcoming events: Mexico missions presentation and youth event on April 23rd -• Announcements about e-bulletin and midweek memo subscriptions -• Trudy's nephew Sean passes away at age 21 -• Prayer is offered for Peter, Trudy, and their family -• Blessings are prayed upon the Gems ministry for 50 years of service -• Prayers are offered for volunteers and the people of the church family -• Updates on Cy and John receiving cancer treatment -• Prayers for healing and peace in the midst of health trials -• Requests for God's strength, healing, and miraculous intervention -• Blessings prayed upon those caring for loved ones -• Prayers for healing, hope, and restoration in relationships -• Requests for endurance and strength for caregivers -• Prayer for those mourning the loss of a loved one (Sean) -• Reflection on the meaning of God's presence during times of grief and hardship -• Celebration of the 50th anniversary of the GEMS ministry -• Introduction to the current GEMS program and its participants -• Introduction to GEMS program and its legacy -• Requesting participants to stand up in recognition of their work -• Discussion of discipleship and Christian family within the church -• Focus on Micah 6 verse 8 as a guiding principle for the program -• Reading from Micah 6:1-8 and highlighting verse 8's emphasis on walking with God -• Explanation of the history behind Micah's writing and its context in Judah -• Map of the ancient region includes Judah, Israel, and Syria -• Micah is a prophet who prophesied around 739 B.C. -• The reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah marked historical periods -• Judah existed in a fertile crescent region with economic prosperity -• The people fell into selfish materialism due to their wealth and desires -• God and religion became seen as ways to acquire more material possessions -• Misuse of religious practices for personal gain -• The vending machine approach to God, where people offer sacrifices in exchange for benefits -• Loss of moral impact and personal values due to this approach -• Micah's critique of the Israelites' relationship with God as being transactional and self-serving -• The language of bargain and the idea of a vending machine God -• Critique of superficial or tokenistic forms of worship and prayer. -• The speaker discusses a "vending machine" concept of prayer, where one expects God to provide a reward or fix a problem in exchange for prayers or good deeds. -• The speaker explores the idea that this vending machine approach can be ineffective and lead to anger, frustration, or feelings of being alone when God doesn't meet expectations. -• The importance of relationships with others, such as older women or family members, who can provide support and care during difficult times is emphasized. -• The speaker emphasizes that God wants a more personal and intimate relationship with individuals, rather than just fulfilling their demands. -• God has designs and plans for each person's life -• Life with God is meant to be abundant, but requires letting Him define what that means -• The truth is that every good gift comes from above and God responds to prayers -• Trusting in God's wisdom and will is essential when seeking answers to prayer -• A relationship with God can sustain us through difficult times, but may not prevent them -• God wants to use people to make life better for others, rather than being used by them for personal gain -• The importance of worship and relationship with God -• The danger of reducing faith to mere rituals and actions -• The limitations of human ability to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God -• Jesus as the only one who perfectly exemplifies these qualities -• Our dependence on Jesus for a right relationship with God -• The love of God is available to everyone through Christ Jesus -• Nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus -• Knowing and being known by Jesus allows us to walk with him -• Walking with Jesus gives us the power to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God -• The danger of trying to do these things on our own, rather than trusting in what Jesus has already done for us -• Prayer and worship, focusing on who God is and what He has done in Christ Jesus. -• Trust in God's foundation and sovereignty -• Invitation to community and fellowship after worship -• Prayer and connection opportunities available -• Blessing of God for protection, guidance, and peace -• Jesus Christ as the light of Judah, Lamb who was slain, and King of all kings -• Future reign of Jesus with wisdom, mercy, and justice -• Angels' praise and worship of Jesus \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - April 16, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - April 16, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 08de512713a5ee81d0e5d8570d0cb62a6f412580..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - April 16, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1576 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.80] I don't think we need to do this one. -[8.32 --> 10.28] Unless you never play this one. -[10.56 --> 12.08] We always play this one and you don't. -[12.08 --> 22.62] What chord are you in? -[30.00 --> 40.00] What? -[40.00 --> 42.00] What? -[42.00 --> 44.00] Two, I think. -[44.00 --> 56.00] One more time. -[56.00 --> 72.28] You're the lion of Judah. -[72.28 --> 82.28] One more time. -[82.28 --> 92.28] One more time. -[92.28 --> 94.28] One more time. -[94.28 --> 104.28] One more time. -[104.28 --> 114.28] One more time. -[114.28 --> 118.28] One more time. -[118.28 --> 126.28] One more time. -[126.28 --> 128.28] One more time. -[128.28 --> 130.28] One more time. -[130.28 --> 140.28] One more time. -[140.28 --> 142.28] One more time. -[142.28 --> 144.28] Two more time. -[144.28 --> 174.26] Thank you. -[174.28 --> 204.26] Thank you. -[204.28 --> 234.26] Thank you. -[234.28 --> 264.26] Thank you. -[264.28 --> 294.26] Thank you. -[294.28 --> 324.26] Thank you. -[324.28 --> 354.26] Thank you. -[354.28 --> 384.26] Thank you. -[384.28 --> 414.26] Thank you. -[414.28 --> 444.26] Thank you. -[444.28 --> 474.26] Thank you. -[474.28 --> 504.26] Thank you. -[504.28 --> 534.26] Thank you. -[534.28 --> 564.26] Thank you. -[564.28 --> 594.26] Thank you. -[594.26 --> 624.24] I don't think they've arrived yet. -[624.24 --> 654.22] I get it. -[654.22 --> 656.04] Because sometimes you're not so sure, right? -[656.22 --> 684.20] And... -[684.20 --> 714.18] I don't think you're not so much. -[714.18 --> 717.78] All right. Morning. I'm all right. You? -[744.18 --> 774.16] All right. -[774.18 --> 804.16] All right. -[804.18 --> 834.16] All right. -[834.18 --> 864.16] All right. -[864.18 --> 894.16] All right. -[894.16 --> 896.56] Welcome to worship. -[896.96 --> 903.66] A special welcome if you are visiting here, especially if you are here for Gems Sunday. -[903.84 --> 904.40] Hi, girls. -[904.40 --> 910.98] Okay. I'll work on him later. -[910.98 --> 917.22] We are so excited to have you guys here with us in worship. -[917.42 --> 919.78] My name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors here. -[920.42 --> 924.88] And it's my privilege with a few others to lead in worship this morning. -[924.98 --> 930.32] Before we begin in our ongoing rolling start, we have a couple announcements to make. -[930.44 --> 933.16] And so first I'm going to invite Josh to the front. -[933.16 --> 935.16] He's going to make an announcement. -[935.16 --> 935.18] He's going to make an announcement. -[935.18 --> 938.76] And then, Rob, you will follow behind Josh. -[938.76 --> 945.24] Okay. I brought notes this time so I don't forget everything. -[946.44 --> 951.78] Okay. So the Young Adults Bible Study is today, one hour after church, at Courtney Rorsma's residence. -[952.04 --> 954.54] The address is in the email I sent you all. -[954.54 --> 957.10] But if you have any questions, please come talk to me. -[957.54 --> 958.38] Lunch is provided. -[959.10 --> 961.02] And I'm really excited to see you all there. -[965.50 --> 967.32] You got to go a little faster. -[971.32 --> 971.92] Thank you. -[971.92 --> 978.28] Good morning. -[978.64 --> 980.12] My name is Rob. -[980.22 --> 981.12] I'm an usher here. -[981.64 --> 984.06] And I have an announcement this morning. -[984.06 --> 994.72] And I believe this will be the first time in the history of our church that it will be an announcement that was generated by ChatGPT. -[996.72 --> 999.54] So I'm going to read it word for word. -[1000.20 --> 1000.90] Here we go. -[1002.88 --> 1004.90] Beloved members of our congregation. -[1005.98 --> 1007.22] It says that, right? -[1008.50 --> 1015.58] We would like to take this opportunity to emphasize an important aspect of our Sunday worship services, -[1016.04 --> 1018.76] particularly during special services and events. -[1020.44 --> 1020.74] Oops. -[1021.38 --> 1028.04] We respectfully request that you park your vehicles at the designated overflow parking lot located on the school grounds -[1028.04 --> 1036.12] rather than the adjacent parking lot at the church in the unlikely event that you may encounter an orange fluorescent cone on the sidewalk. -[1036.12 --> 1047.10] The overflow parking lot is identifiable by a sign and is located within a short walking distance of the event venue. -[1047.10 --> 1048.64] That would be the sanctuary. -[1048.64 --> 1056.18] It's design enables it to accommodate a large number of vehicles providing ample parking space for all attendees. -[1056.18 --> 1063.70] This is especially important during special services and events when attendance tends to be high and parking can become limited. -[1063.70 --> 1071.96] We would like to offer some insights into the mathematical properties of cones, which may seem unrelated, -[1071.96 --> 1079.74] but will serve to illustrate the importance of making informed decisions when it comes to parking. -[1079.74 --> 1084.60] It sounds a little bit less like ChatGPT and a little more like Justin Trudeau. -[1084.60 --> 1093.92] The volume of a cone can be calculated using the formula one-third pi r squared h. -[1093.92 --> 1098.88] What kind of pie? -[1100.42 --> 1102.98] Raspberry pie, but that's neither here nor there. -[1102.98 --> 1106.84] Sounds to me like you use ChatGPT 3.4 and not 4.0. -[1109.48 --> 1110.52] The upshot. -[1110.80 --> 1111.54] Thank you, Rob. -[1112.04 --> 1115.14] If you see the cone out front, park next door. -[1120.40 --> 1120.92] Good? -[1121.26 --> 1121.64] All right. -[1121.64 --> 1128.70] We also wanted to inform you on April 23rd at 6 p.m. -[1128.70 --> 1130.68] So that's a Sunday night at 6 p.m. -[1130.68 --> 1141.90] We are hosting an event for parents and for teenagers, preteens with the youth called Raising Kids in a Hyper-Sexualized Culture. -[1142.64 --> 1144.34] And there's information in your e-bulletin. -[1144.52 --> 1146.04] There's information on the church website. -[1146.54 --> 1149.10] Really do want to encourage you all to attend that. -[1149.10 --> 1164.20] Marvin Bravo, who is a licensed therapist and a counselor at Abbey Christian, will be coming with Faye Martin and leading us in some material and presentation and conversation around what it's like to raise kids in the world today. -[1164.70 --> 1169.48] And we want to offer that to you and encourage you to join us April 23rd at 6 p.m. -[1169.48 --> 1173.90] If you have any questions, you can grab me or Kevin afterwards and we'd be happy to address them. -[1174.56 --> 1177.20] I'm going to invite you, as you are able now, to stand. -[1177.62 --> 1178.96] We can begin our worship together. -[1178.96 --> 1190.94] As we worship today, we do so in the presence of our God. -[1191.22 --> 1193.44] And so he welcomes us and he greets us. -[1193.60 --> 1196.16] I invite you to receive the greeting of our God. -[1196.16 --> 1208.72] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[1209.92 --> 1210.34] Amen. -[1211.04 --> 1217.54] I'm going to invite you, as you are able and as you are moved, to turn to those around you and welcome them into worship. -[1217.98 --> 1220.72] Handshake, fist pump, a hug if you really know someone. -[1220.72 --> 1250.70] Thank you. -[1250.72 --> 1266.64] Please join me in our call to worship this morning from Psalm 100. -[1270.08 --> 1272.64] Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. -[1273.72 --> 1275.58] Worship the Lord with gladness. -[1276.28 --> 1278.84] Come before him with joyful songs. -[1278.84 --> 1282.60] Know that the Lord is God. -[1282.80 --> 1284.12] It is he who made us. -[1284.90 --> 1288.12] We are his people, the sheep of his pasture. -[1289.58 --> 1292.64] Enter his gates with thanksgiving, his courts with praise. -[1293.14 --> 1296.22] Give thanks to him and praise his name. -[1297.18 --> 1300.50] For the Lord is good and his love endures forever. -[1301.00 --> 1304.90] His faithfulness continues through all generations. -[1304.90 --> 1305.24] Test. -[1305.24 --> 1305.26] Test. -[1321.26 --> 1322.80] One. -[1325.30 --> 1326.50] Come on. -[1326.50 --> 1334.54] Come on. -[1334.54 --> 1336.56] Come all you weary. -[1336.56 --> 1338.76] Come all you thirsty. -[1339.32 --> 1343.26] Come to the well that never was dry. -[1343.26 --> 1345.64] Drink of the water. -[1345.96 --> 1349.18] Come and thirst no more. -[1349.18 --> 1350.18] Come all you sinners. -[1350.18 --> 1354.46] Come all you sinners. -[1354.46 --> 1356.72] Come find his mercy. -[1356.72 --> 1358.78] Come to the table. -[1358.78 --> 1360.84] He will satisfy. -[1360.84 --> 1363.36] They have his goodness. -[1363.86 --> 1366.94] Find what you're looking for. -[1366.94 --> 1374.80] For God so loved the world that he gave us. -[1374.80 --> 1379.34] His one and only son to save us. -[1379.34 --> 1384.54] Whoever believes in him will live forever. -[1388.54 --> 1390.62] Bring all your failures. -[1391.08 --> 1392.76] Bring all your addictions. -[1392.76 --> 1397.18] Come lay them down at the foot of the cross. -[1397.18 --> 1404.00] Jesus is waiting there with open arms. -[1406.00 --> 1410.72] For God so loved the world that he gave us. -[1410.80 --> 1415.26] His one and only son to save us. -[1415.36 --> 1420.40] Whoever believes in him will live forever. -[1420.40 --> 1428.48] The power of hell forever defeated. -[1428.48 --> 1430.58] Now it is well. -[1430.58 --> 1432.94] I'm walking in freedom. -[1432.94 --> 1435.76] For God so loved the world. -[1435.76 --> 1439.70] God so loved the world. -[1441.40 --> 1443.68] Praise God. -[1444.22 --> 1446.06] Praise God. -[1446.06 --> 1468.38] Praise God. -[1468.38 --> 1478.82] Praise Him, praise Him for the wonders of His love. -[1479.42 --> 1488.90] For God so loved the world that He gave us, His one and only Son to save. -[1488.90 --> 1498.28] For God so loved the world that He gave us, His one and only Son to save us. -[1498.36 --> 1503.36] Whoever believes in Him will live forever. -[1506.66 --> 1512.96] The power of hell forever defeated, now it is well. -[1512.96 --> 1521.82] I'm walking in freedom for God so loved, God so loved the world. -[1523.86 --> 1533.20] Bring all your failures, bring your addictions, come lay them down at the foot of the cross. -[1533.80 --> 1539.76] Jesus is waiting, God so loved the world. -[1542.96 --> 1567.30] I love you, Lord. -[1567.30 --> 1573.30] Oh, your mercy never fails me. -[1575.30 --> 1581.30] All my days I've been held in your hands. -[1581.30 --> 1598.30] From the moment that I wake up, until I lay my hand, I will sing of the goodness of God. -[1598.30 --> 1600.30] God so loved the world. -[1600.30 --> 1605.30] And all my life you have been faithful. -[1605.30 --> 1617.30] And all my life you have been so, so good. -[1617.30 --> 1619.30] I love you, Lord. -[1619.30 --> 1623.30] With every breath that I am able. -[1623.30 --> 1631.30] I will sing of the goodness of God. -[1631.30 --> 1635.30] I love your voice. -[1635.30 --> 1639.30] I love your voice. -[1639.30 --> 1645.30] You have led me through the fire. -[1645.30 --> 1653.30] In darkest night, you are close like no other. -[1653.30 --> 1655.30] I've known you, Lord. -[1655.30 --> 1657.30] I've known you as a father. -[1657.30 --> 1661.30] I've known you as a friend. -[1661.30 --> 1669.30] And I have lived in the goodness of God. -[1669.30 --> 1670.30] God so loved the world. -[1670.30 --> 1673.30] And all my life you have been so, so good. -[1673.30 --> 1677.30] And all my life you have been faithful. -[1677.30 --> 1689.30] And all my life you have been so, so good. -[1689.30 --> 1694.30] With every breath that I am able. -[1694.30 --> 1701.30] I will sing of the goodness of God. -[1701.30 --> 1708.30] Your goodness is running after. -[1708.30 --> 1711.30] It's running after me. -[1711.30 --> 1716.30] Your goodness is running after. -[1716.30 --> 1719.30] It's running after me. -[1719.30 --> 1724.30] With my life laid down, I'm surrendered now. -[1724.30 --> 1727.30] I give you everything. -[1727.30 --> 1731.30] Your goodness is running after. -[1731.30 --> 1736.30] It's running after me. -[1736.30 --> 1739.30] Your goodness is running after. -[1739.30 --> 1742.30] It's running after me. -[1742.30 --> 1747.30] Your goodness is running after. -[1747.30 --> 1750.30] It's running after me. -[1750.30 --> 1755.30] With my life laid down, I'm surrendered now. -[1755.30 --> 1759.30] With my life laid down, I give you everything. -[1759.30 --> 1761.30] Your goodness is running after. -[1761.30 --> 1763.30] It's running after me. -[1763.30 --> 1765.30] And all my life you have been faithful. -[1765.30 --> 1769.30] And all my life you have been so, so good. -[1769.30 --> 1779.30] With every breath that I am able. -[1779.30 --> 1784.30] And I will sing of the goodness of God. -[1784.30 --> 1800.30] And I will sing of the goodness of God. -[1800.30 --> 1809.30] And I will sing of the goodness of God. -[1809.30 --> 1811.30] Please be seated. -[1811.30 --> 1812.30] And join me in. -[1812.30 --> 1826.30] Father, you ask us. -[1826.30 --> 1843.30] You don't always ask us. -[1843.30 --> 1845.30] We want justice. -[1845.30 --> 1846.30] We want justice. -[1846.30 --> 1847.30] We want justice. -[1847.30 --> 1850.30] And we think more of ourselves than we should. -[1850.30 --> 1854.30] We can only change when you can enjoy our lives and show us. -[1854.30 --> 1860.30] You showed us the power and the sacrifices of life that changes everything. -[1860.30 --> 1866.30] Father, you ask that you come there and change our hearts and minds and our wills. -[1866.30 --> 1867.30] And we will be able to help us with this love. -[1867.30 --> 1868.30] We will help us with this love. -[1868.30 --> 1869.30] You can help us with this love. -[1869.30 --> 1870.30] It's the love of us. -[1870.30 --> 1871.30] You are welcome. -[1871.30 --> 1896.30] Holiness Holiness is what I long for. -[1896.30 --> 1899.30] Holiness is what I need. -[1899.30 --> 1913.30] Holiness Holiness is what you want from me. -[1913.30 --> 1915.30] Holiness Holiness Holiness -[1915.30 --> 1916.30] Faithfulness is what I need. -[1916.30 --> 1921.30] Faithfulness is what you want from me. -[1921.30 --> 1922.30] You are welcome. -[1922.30 --> 1924.30] Faithfulness is what I need. -[1924.30 --> 1930.30] Faithfulness, faithfulness is what you want from me. -[1930.30 --> 1936.06] you want from me -[1937.26 --> 1951.98] take my heart and form it take my mind transform it take my will -[1951.98 --> 1968.78] conform it to yours to yours oh lord righteousness righteousness is what i long for righteousness -[1968.78 --> 1978.14] is what i need righteousness righteousness is what you want from me -[1981.98 --> 2003.82] to take my heart and form it take my mind transform it take my will conform it to yours to yours oh lord -[2003.82 --> 2027.02] to take my heart and form it take my mind transform it take my will conform it to yours to yours oh lord -[2027.02 --> 2033.26] to yours to yours oh lord -[2039.26 --> 2049.26] please rise -[2057.02 --> 2069.26] i've heard a thousand stories of what they think -[2069.26 --> 2081.50] your life -[2081.50 --> 2093.74] good father -[2093.74 --> 2104.54] it's who you are it's who you are it's who you are and i'm loved by you it's who i am -[2104.54 --> 2107.34] it's who i am -[2107.34 --> 2109.34] it's who i am -[2109.34 --> 2120.78] i've seen many searching for answers -[2120.78 --> 2130.78] far and one but i know we're all searching for answers -[2130.78 --> 2133.02] you provide -[2133.02 --> 2141.26] you know just what we need before we say a word -[2141.26 --> 2145.26] you're a good good father it's who you are -[2145.26 --> 2153.02] it's who you are it's who you are it's who you are and i'm loved by you -[2153.02 --> 2155.02] it's who i am -[2155.02 --> 2157.02] it's who i am -[2157.02 --> 2179.02] it's who i am -[2179.02 --> 2189.02] you are perfect in all of your ways -[2189.02 --> 2191.02] you are perfect in all of your ways -[2191.02 --> 2195.02] you are perfect in all of your ways -[2195.02 --> 2197.02] to all -[2197.02 --> 2209.02] you are perfect in all of your ways -[2209.02 --> 2211.02] you are perfect in all of your ways -[2211.02 --> 2215.02] you are perfect in all of your ways -[2215.02 --> 2217.02] to all -[2217.02 --> 2219.02] love -[2219.02 --> 2225.02] love so undeniable -[2225.02 --> 2231.02] i can hardly speak -[2231.02 --> 2235.02] peace so unexplainable -[2235.02 --> 2243.02] i can hardly think as you call me -[2243.02 --> 2247.02] deeper still as you call me -[2247.02 --> 2251.02] deeper still as you call me -[2251.02 --> 2255.02] deeper still into love -[2255.02 --> 2257.02] love -[2257.02 --> 2261.02] love you're a good good father -[2261.02 --> 2263.02] it's who you are -[2263.02 --> 2265.02] it's who you are -[2265.02 --> 2267.02] it's who you are -[2267.02 --> 2269.02] it's who i am -[2281.02 --> 2283.02] it's who you are -[2283.02 --> 2285.02] it's who you are -[2285.02 --> 2286.02] it's who you are -[2286.02 --> 2289.02] it's who i am -[2289.02 --> 2290.36] I am. -[2290.72 --> 2292.72] It's who I am. -[2293.08 --> 2294.64] It's who I am. -[2302.14 --> 2305.70] I believe you can have a seat right now for a moment, -[2305.84 --> 2308.26] and I'm going to invite up, as it's Gem Sunday, -[2308.40 --> 2310.98] I'm going to invite up Courtney Rorisma to the front -[2310.98 --> 2313.76] and a few of the gems, all of the gems, -[2314.02 --> 2315.78] all of the gems are going to come forward. -[2315.88 --> 2317.44] It's going to be an exciting few minutes here, -[2317.52 --> 2318.82] and they're going to lead us in a litany. -[2319.02 --> 2320.02] Thank you. -[2332.02 --> 2335.94] For 50 years, girls and women from generation to generation -[2335.94 --> 2339.76] have been uniting their voices to recite Micah 6 verse 8 -[2339.76 --> 2340.98] in their gems clubs. -[2341.32 --> 2344.52] Whether their club is in Canada, the U.S., Uganda, -[2344.52 --> 2347.60] or 13 other countries, it sounds like this. -[2348.10 --> 2350.38] Emmanuel, gems, and gems leaders, -[2350.52 --> 2352.26] what does the Lord require of you? -[2352.60 --> 2357.86] Ask justly to love and hurt and walk humbly with our God. -[2358.06 --> 2360.18] Micah 6 verse 8. -[2360.18 --> 2362.18] This is who God is. -[2362.18 --> 2363.18] This is who God is. -[2363.18 --> 2370.98] I am the Lord who exercises kindness, justice, and righteousness on earth. -[2371.18 --> 2374.72] For indeed, I delight, the prayer of the Lord. -[2375.34 --> 2376.96] Bear not at my hand. -[2377.60 --> 2379.14] 9 verse 24. -[2379.14 --> 2384.80] In grateful response to who he is and what he's done for us through Jesus, -[2385.36 --> 2387.02] we act, love, and walk. -[2388.14 --> 2393.82] We act justly by taking action and doing what is right. -[2393.82 --> 2403.32] Psalm 226 verse 13. -[2403.32 --> 2411.20] We love mercy by serving one another with love, kindness, and compassion. -[2412.20 --> 2415.36] Serve one another with compassion in love. -[2415.82 --> 2418.24] We wait to the 5 verse 13. -[2418.24 --> 2427.66] We walk humbly with God by saying yes to God and walking in his ways for our lives. -[2429.24 --> 2431.96] We be completely humble and gentle. -[2432.62 --> 2436.28] We take patience and experience with one another in love. -[2436.90 --> 2438.90] We keep the 4 verse 13. -[2438.90 --> 2443.56] Equipped with God's word and compelled by his love, -[2443.90 --> 2449.30] these girls are making a difference as they act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. -[2449.70 --> 2452.66] Let's encourage them, pray for them, and join them. -[2452.96 --> 2455.94] Because Micah 6 verse 8 isn't just for girls and gems. -[2456.28 --> 2457.10] It's for all. -[2457.40 --> 2457.92] Are you ready? -[2459.90 --> 2464.90] Girls, boys, and grown-ups, what does the Lord require of us? -[2464.90 --> 2471.56] We act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God. -[2471.80 --> 2473.86] Micah 6 verse 8. -[2474.36 --> 2474.76] Amen. -[2474.76 --> 2474.96] Amen. -[2474.96 --> 2475.24] Amen. -[2475.24 --> 2475.36] Amen. -[2475.36 --> 2477.04] Amen. -[2477.04 --> 2477.12] Amen. -[2477.12 --> 2477.24] Amen. -[2477.24 --> 2479.24] Amen. -[2479.24 --> 2481.24] Amen. -[2481.24 --> 2483.24] Amen. -[2483.24 --> 2485.24] Amen. -[2485.24 --> 2487.24] Amen. -[2487.24 --> 2489.24] Amen. -[2489.24 --> 2491.24] Amen. -[2491.24 --> 2493.24] Amen. -[2493.24 --> 2494.24] Amen. -[2494.24 --> 2494.30] Amen. -[2494.30 --> 2494.88] Amen. -[2494.88 --> 2524.86] Amen. -[2524.86 --> 2526.76] Amen. -[2526.76 --> 2528.94] Amen. -[2535.00 --> 2537.02] Amen. -[2537.02 --> 2539.44] Amen. -[2539.50 --> 2541.68] Amen. -[2541.68 --> 2543.00] Amen. -[2543.00 --> 2545.18] Amen. -[2546.46 --> 2547.54] Amen. -[2547.54 --> 2548.28] Amen. -[2548.28 --> 2549.08] Amen. -[2549.08 --> 2549.72] Amen. -[2550.86 --> 2551.20] Amen. -[2551.20 --> 2552.34] Amen. -[2552.34 --> 2552.42] Amen. -[2553.04 --> 2554.26] Amen. -[2554.26 --> 2576.62] is the Lamb who was slain. Holy, holy is He. Sing a new song to Him who sits on Heaven's -[2576.62 --> 2597.86] mercy seat. Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty who was and is and is to come. With -[2597.86 --> 2610.86] all creation I sing praise to the King of kings. You are my everything and I will adore You. -[2610.86 --> 2637.16] Clothes in rainbows of living color, flashes of lightning, rolls of thunder. -[2637.16 --> 2652.16] Blessing and honor, strength and glory and power be to You the only wise King. -[2652.16 --> 2665.16] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty who was and is and is to come. -[2665.16 --> 2682.16] With all creation I sing praise to the King of kings. You are my everything and I will adore You. -[2682.16 --> 2710.16] Filled with wonder, awestruck wonder, at the mention of Your name. -[2710.16 --> 2725.16] Filled with wonder, awestruck wonder, at the mention of Your name. -[2725.16 --> 2741.16] Jesus, Your name is power, breath and living water, such a marvelous mystery. -[2741.16 --> 2756.16] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty who was and is and is to come. -[2756.16 --> 2770.16] With all creation I sing praise to the King of kings. You are my everything and I will adore You. -[2770.16 --> 2783.16] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty who was and is and is to come. -[2783.16 --> 2785.16] Holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty to put us on iPads of jam and alone. -[2785.16 --> 2789.16] Great art upon me, inclusive a marvel and around the US, H czy S Otherwise, you will adore You. -[2789.16 --> 2793.16] Holy, holy is the Lord Dawkins. -[2793.16 --> 2794.16] Amen. -[2794.16 --> 2796.16] God Almighty's no angels. -[2796.16 --> 2797.16] Amen. -[2797.16 --> 2798.16] Amen. -[2798.16 --> 2802.16] L' roz's止 UpperJohn那麼 lazımcake Day aftermprele onda approaches. -[2802.16 --> 2805.12] Son turned to the Son of moon, Orion 311. -[2805.12 --> 2806.16] A joy deed made pit Edit songs on the way untold the God ofatorses. -[2806.16 --> 2809.16] Amen. -[2809.16 --> 2811.26] Old â说 churches in prayer gates of wine, -[2811.26 --> 2816.50] Maybe see that. -[2841.26 --> 2848.36] And it all comes down to this. -[2848.36 --> 2852.78] What you require of me. -[2852.78 --> 2857.84] Love my neighbor as my soul. -[2858.30 --> 2862.96] And you above all things. -[2863.64 --> 2865.06] Act your sleep. -[2865.30 --> 2866.92] Love mercy. -[2867.64 --> 2869.46] Walk homely. -[2869.46 --> 2872.08] With you God. -[2872.94 --> 2874.70] In all things. -[2874.70 --> 2876.70] In all ways. -[2877.66 --> 2878.70] Walk homely. -[2879.76 --> 2881.58] With you God. -[2882.20 --> 2885.62] It all comes down to this. -[2886.84 --> 2890.12] To be your hands and feet. -[2890.94 --> 2894.74] Good news to all the world. -[2894.74 --> 2899.98] All the truth will set us free. -[2899.98 --> 2902.36] Act your sleep. -[2902.36 --> 2902.40] Act your sleep. -[2902.40 --> 2904.36] Love mercy. -[2905.22 --> 2906.22] Walk homely. -[2907.22 --> 2909.22] With you God. -[2909.22 --> 2911.84] In all things. -[2911.84 --> 2914.60] In all ways. -[2914.60 --> 2916.34] Walk homely. -[2916.46 --> 2918.46] With you God. -[2918.46 --> 2921.70] It's beauty for ashes. -[2921.70 --> 2923.96] It's morning to dancing. -[2923.96 --> 2925.70] It's closer and closer. -[2925.70 --> 2928.70] The kingdom of heaven. -[2928.70 --> 2930.96] Beauty for ashes. -[2930.96 --> 2933.28] It's morning to dancing. -[2933.28 --> 2935.54] It's closer and closer. -[2935.54 --> 2946.52] To -[2946.84 --> 2947.22] Oooh. -[2947.22 --> 2947.66] About 20 upon 20. -[2947.66 --> 2949.24] The Guides. -[2949.24 --> 2949.78] The Kingdom of Heaven. -[2949.78 --> 2950.10] Earth. -[2950.10 --> 2950.52] The Kingdom of Heaven. -[2950.52 --> 2950.62] Of Heaven. -[2950.62 --> 2950.92] Eagle of Reach. -[2950.92 --> 2951.66] To Value Team. -[2951.66 --> 2955.66] The fruit are hands of song -[2956.46 --> 2960.46] Faith just like a seed -[2961.16 --> 2966.46] The only way it grows -[2975.46 --> 2977.46] Action, see -[2977.46 --> 2979.46] Love, mercy -[2979.46 --> 2981.46] Welcome me -[2981.46 --> 2983.46] With you God -[2984.46 --> 2986.46] In all things -[2986.46 --> 2988.46] And always -[2988.46 --> 2990.46] Welcome me -[2991.46 --> 2993.46] With you God -[2993.46 --> 3008.46] Hello, my name is Courtney Grosma and I'm the coordinator for the Langley Emanuel CRC GEMS program. GEMS stands for Girls Everywhere Meeting the Savior and its vision is to see the girls around the world actively and enthusiastically expressing love for God and others. -[3008.46 --> 3023.46] Girls equipped, motivated, and passionately engaged in living out their faith. The mission of GEMS is to bring girls everywhere into a living dynamic relationship with Jesus Christ. -[3023.46 --> 3042.46] Langley Emanuel GEMS does this through Bible study, badges, crafts, songs, having conversations, and so much more. We currently have 10 leaders and 35 girls ranging from grades 3 to 7. This year the theme has been love, act, walk, which I have been a lot of people who are in the world. -[3042.46 --> 3061.46] We currently have 10 leaders and 35 girls ranging from grades 3 to 7. This year the theme has been love, act, walk, which has allowed the girls to really dig into Micah 6 verse 8. Micah 6 verse 8 has been the aim for the GEMS program since its inception. -[3061.46 --> 3078.08] But this year we were able to learn how acting justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God affects each aspect of our lives. When the girls learn to follow Micah 6 verse 8, it not only changes their world, but changes the world around them. -[3078.08 --> 3086.88] The first offering today is for the budget and needs of our church. The second offering is for the GEMS Ministry of North America. -[3087.56 --> 3101.40] This money is used to run GEMS on a larger scale, to develop curriculum, to provide staff, to support the various clubs, and to spread the word of what GEMS is and help set up new clubs, and so much more. -[3101.98 --> 3103.90] Please give generously as God has given us. -[3108.08 --> 3138.06] Please give generously as God has given us. -[3138.08 --> 3138.84] Act your sleep, love mercy, walk humbly with you, God. -[3138.84 --> 3139.08] Treat only for you, God,書щерб 6 soit tous lesión pourTH euver líquid мир mu alcanz espaço III a valer uneion. -[3139.14 --> 3140.08] But in learning more, 이 work well leads us for the EuropeanECс unknown, to especially my life there is not only for many, lovelies. -[3140.08 --> 3141.32] Because I use everything as God will call it. -[3141.32 --> 3142.62] Why are people involved in that point? -[3142.62 --> 3145.72] I invite Watch the même 끝 autres… -[3145.72 --> 3152.16] In a place in your way in everyone else's casa, to use your Więc! -[3152.16 --> 3157.64] Walk humbly with you with you, God. -[3157.64 --> 3159.30] It all comes down to this … -[3159.58 --> 3163.72] It all comes down to this, to be your hands and feet, good news to all your servants. -[3163.72 --> 3164.90] God will remain on the opposite height. -[3164.90 --> 3166.56] And by satisfying things to use of the Father's spirit as shown exist in the Su Pacific environment, -[3166.56 --> 3169.56] to all the world. -[3170.34 --> 3174.38] Oh, the truth will set us free. -[3175.50 --> 3183.96] Act justly, love mercy, walk humbly with you, God. -[3184.68 --> 3193.38] In all things, in all ways, walk humbly with you, God. -[3193.38 --> 3198.56] It's beauty for ashes, it's morning, they're dancing. -[3199.00 --> 3203.26] It's closer and closer, the kingdom of heaven. -[3203.70 --> 3207.88] Beauty for ashes, it's morning, they're dancing. -[3207.88 --> 3212.74] It's closer and closer, the kingdom of heaven. -[3212.74 --> 3230.16] And years from now we'll see, the fruit our hands are sown. -[3230.16 --> 3240.94] Faith just like a seed, the only way it grows. -[3240.94 --> 3258.94] Act justly, love mercy, walk humbly with you, God. -[3258.94 --> 3267.94] In all things, in all ways, walk humbly with you, God. -[3267.94 --> 3279.46] On the nights when the dark lasts a little bit longer -[3279.46 --> 3285.76] When the wind and the storm is a little bit stronger -[3285.76 --> 3292.20] When the fear in my heart digs a little bit deeper -[3292.20 --> 3298.60] When my faith just ain't, it's a little bit weaker -[3298.60 --> 3303.76] Where could I run to? -[3304.80 --> 3306.84] Where could I go? -[3306.84 --> 3311.34] Even when it feels like my world is shaking -[3311.34 --> 3314.44] Even when I've had all that I can take -[3314.44 --> 3318.48] I know, you never let me go -[3318.48 --> 3324.16] And even when the waters won't stop rising -[3324.16 --> 3327.20] Even when I'm caught in the dead of a night -[3327.20 --> 3330.84] I know, no matter how it ends -[3330.84 --> 3332.84] You're with me even then -[3332.84 --> 3333.84] You're with me even then -[3333.84 --> 3337.84] You're with me even then -[3337.84 --> 3342.84] And the days up ahead look a little bit brighter -[3342.84 --> 3348.84] But the grip of the past holds a little bit tighter -[3348.84 --> 3355.84] I'm reminded your grace never asked for perfection -[3355.84 --> 3361.84] I'm restored cause I'm yours and I stand forgiving -[3361.84 --> 3366.84] Even when it feels like my world is shaking -[3366.84 --> 3370.84] Even when I've had all that I can take -[3370.84 --> 3377.84] I know, you never let me go -[3377.84 --> 3381.84] And even when the waters won't stop rising -[3381.84 --> 3384.84] Even when I'm caught in the dead of a night -[3384.84 --> 3388.84] I know, no matter how it ends -[3388.84 --> 3392.84] You're with me even then -[3392.84 --> 3396.84] I would love to invite all of the kids to come forward -[3396.84 --> 3400.84] And come see Hank the Hound for a second -[3400.84 --> 3402.84] Hi kids -[3402.84 --> 3405.84] You did, we were pretty quick -[3405.84 --> 3406.84] Come on forward, come to -[3406.84 --> 3408.84] Oh, no touching please -[3408.84 --> 3410.84] I'm a little sensitive -[3413.84 --> 3414.84] Alright, good morning -[3414.84 --> 3417.84] Good morning, good morning everyone -[3417.84 --> 3420.84] How's everyone doing? -[3420.84 --> 3424.84] Good, what's with all the girls in the gray shirts? -[3424.84 --> 3426.84] It's Gems, Hank -[3426.84 --> 3427.84] It's Gems Sunday -[3427.84 --> 3429.84] Gems? -[3429.84 --> 3431.84] Tell them about Hems -[3431.84 --> 3432.84] Hems? -[3432.84 --> 3434.84] Yeah, tell them about Hems -[3434.84 --> 3436.84] Hank is part of a group called Hems -[3436.84 --> 3440.84] Hounds everywhere meeting the savior -[3441.84 --> 3444.84] We used to call it Hanks everywhere meeting the savior -[3444.84 --> 3446.84] But I was the only one who showed up -[3446.84 --> 3448.84] So we switched it to Hems -[3448.84 --> 3449.84] And now who comes? -[3449.84 --> 3452.84] Me, Peggy the pooch -[3452.84 --> 3454.84] And Uncle Wrinkles -[3454.84 --> 3455.84] That's right -[3455.84 --> 3457.84] Do you want to tell them what we do there? -[3457.84 --> 3458.84] Mm-hmm -[3458.84 --> 3460.84] Should we talk about when I come? -[3460.84 --> 3461.84] Yeah -[3461.84 --> 3463.84] Well, what happens when I come, Hank? -[3463.84 --> 3465.84] When he comes, we do Bible study -[3465.84 --> 3467.84] And eat some snacks -[3467.84 --> 3469.84] And tell jokes -[3469.84 --> 3471.84] And then what happens when I can't make it? -[3471.84 --> 3473.84] We really just lay there quietly -[3473.84 --> 3474.84] Oh -[3474.84 --> 3476.84] So you don't do the Bible study? -[3476.84 --> 3478.84] No, we're pretty dependent on you -[3478.84 --> 3479.84] Yeah, that's fair -[3479.84 --> 3481.84] So Gems is very fun -[3481.84 --> 3482.84] We've heard lots about them -[3482.84 --> 3484.84] And they're gonna stick around -[3484.84 --> 3485.84] And listen to Pastor Chris -[3485.84 --> 3486.84] And sing some more songs -[3486.84 --> 3488.84] But all of these kids here -[3488.84 --> 3490.84] We're gonna go back and do some children's worship time -[3490.84 --> 3491.84] Right, kids? -[3491.84 --> 3492.84] Is that a good idea? -[3492.84 --> 3494.84] Sounds fun! -[3494.84 --> 3496.84] Alright, so why don't we pray? -[3496.84 --> 3498.84] And then we'll run off the children's worship time -[3498.84 --> 3499.84] Okay? -[3499.84 --> 3502.84] And then we'll have some fun back there -[3502.84 --> 3503.84] So let's fold our hands -[3503.84 --> 3504.84] Close our eyes quick -[3504.84 --> 3505.84] We'll do a little prayer -[3505.84 --> 3506.84] And then we'll head off -[3506.84 --> 3507.84] Dear God, thank you for this day -[3507.84 --> 3509.84] Thank you that it's Gems Sunday -[3509.84 --> 3511.84] And that we get to hear about all of the things that the Gems do -[3511.84 --> 3513.84] And God, we thank you for all these kids too -[3513.84 --> 3514.84] That they're a part of this church -[3514.84 --> 3516.84] And that we're gonna go into the back -[3516.84 --> 3518.84] And do some children's worship time as well -[3518.84 --> 3521.84] And learn more about what it is to live for you -[3521.84 --> 3523.84] And to live in this world in relationship with you -[3523.84 --> 3525.84] So be with us as we go to the back -[3525.84 --> 3527.84] Be with the Gems and the adults as they stay here -[3527.84 --> 3530.84] And may we grow closer to you and closer to each other -[3530.84 --> 3531.84] In your name, amen -[3531.84 --> 3534.84] Alright, let's do the blessing -[3534.84 --> 3536.84] Everybody stand -[3539.84 --> 3541.84] Alright, let's say it together -[3541.84 --> 3542.84] You kids ready? -[3542.84 --> 3545.84] The Lord be with you -[3557.84 --> 3558.84] Good morning -[3558.84 --> 3562.84] Good morning everyone -[3562.84 --> 3563.84] My name's Eric -[3563.84 --> 3565.84] I'm on council at the church here -[3565.84 --> 3567.84] Just wanted to give you a little update -[3567.84 --> 3568.84] We had a meeting this week -[3568.84 --> 3570.84] So I'll give you a little update on what we're up to -[3570.84 --> 3572.84] The evening started off great -[3572.84 --> 3574.84] We had dinner together -[3574.84 --> 3576.84] Pastor Chris cooked dinner for us -[3576.84 --> 3580.84] Chicken, potatoes, some veg -[3580.84 --> 3581.84] Oh, veggie -[3581.84 --> 3598.84] Hello -[3598.84 --> 3602.84] We had a Mexico missions presentation -[3602.84 --> 3605.84] From the young people who went -[3605.84 --> 3609.84] Josiah, Matias and Ali gave a real great -[3609.84 --> 3613.84] Notes on their experience -[3613.84 --> 3614.84] It was fantastic to hear from them -[3614.84 --> 3616.84] And what's been going on there -[3616.84 --> 3617.84] And what they were able to do -[3617.84 --> 3619.84] Once we follow -[3619.84 --> 3622.84] We followed that up with Anthony Janssen -[3622.84 --> 3623.84] Came and did from classes -[3623.84 --> 3626.84] And did a restorative practices presentation -[3626.84 --> 3627.84] For us as council -[3627.84 --> 3630.84] Dealing with restoring relationships -[3630.84 --> 3633.84] And churches that need that kind of work -[3633.84 --> 3636.84] After that we went into the meeting -[3636.84 --> 3638.84] I know this was announced last week -[3638.84 --> 3641.84] But Maria Wind has taken the new job -[3641.84 --> 3644.84] Of communications assistant in the office -[3644.84 --> 3647.84] So we thank her for taking that on -[3647.84 --> 3652.84] The council nomination process has started -[3652.84 --> 3655.84] So if you know anyone who wants to be part of the council -[3655.84 --> 3658.84] And join us for all the fun and games we have -[3658.84 --> 3659.84] It's good to -[3659.84 --> 3662.84] There's nomination forms in the office -[3662.84 --> 3665.84] And Pastor Chris already announced it -[3665.84 --> 3668.84] But on April 23rd there's going to be a youth event here -[3668.84 --> 3670.84] For parents to join in on that -[3670.84 --> 3671.84] So thank you -[3671.84 --> 3672.84] Thank you -[3672.84 --> 3674.84] Thank you -[3674.84 --> 3675.84] Yeah? -[3675.84 --> 3676.84] Yeah? -[3676.84 --> 3677.84] There? -[3677.84 --> 3678.84] Oh! -[3678.84 --> 3679.84] Sounds... -[3679.84 --> 3680.84] Okay! -[3680.84 --> 3681.84] We'll see how long it lasts for! -[3681.84 --> 3694.84] We adapt and move on -[3694.84 --> 3700.84] I'm going to lead us in our church family prayer at this time -[3700.84 --> 3704.84] And so I'm going to invite you to bow your heads -[3704.84 --> 3706.84] Join your hearts with me as we pray -[3707.84 --> 3710.84] Before we pray just a quick announcement -[3710.84 --> 3715.84] In addition to some of the things that you may have read in the e-bulletin -[3715.84 --> 3721.84] First, if you are unaware and have been visiting with us for a while -[3721.84 --> 3725.84] And would like to have more information about what goes on here -[3725.84 --> 3729.84] One of the best ways to do that is to get the e-bulletin and midweek memo -[3729.84 --> 3734.84] And so if you were to email communications at LICRC.ca -[3734.84 --> 3736.84] And say, hey, please put me on that list -[3736.84 --> 3739.84] You would get put on that email list and you would get the bulletin -[3739.84 --> 3744.84] We have in the last number of years moved away from paper bulletins -[3744.84 --> 3747.84] And so this is the way to communicate that information -[3747.84 --> 3748.84] First, that -[3748.84 --> 3751.84] In addition to what you may have read there -[3751.84 --> 3757.84] This morning we're going to pray for Peter and Trudy DeVries and their family -[3757.84 --> 3761.84] Trudy's nephew, Sean, just 21 years old -[3761.84 --> 3764.84] Passed away really suddenly last Sunday -[3764.84 --> 3767.84] They're not sure exactly what took place -[3767.84 --> 3770.84] And so of course we're praying for them and for their family -[3770.84 --> 3777.84] And for everyone who is mourning and crying out and wondering just what is going on -[3778.84 --> 3782.84] With that I invite you to join your heart with me in prayer -[3789.84 --> 3795.84] Heavenly Father, as we gather as a church family for worship -[3795.84 --> 3802.84] We are so grateful that we come into this place and you meet us here -[3804.84 --> 3809.84] We are so grateful for the promise that we're two or three are gathered in your name -[3810.84 --> 3812.84] That you are with us -[3814.84 --> 3820.84] God, we are amazed week in and week out about how you show up in power -[3820.84 --> 3822.84] Through the working of your Holy Spirit -[3822.84 --> 3825.84] As we sing your praises and as we hear your word -[3827.84 --> 3834.84] God, we are so grateful that in these ordinary acts of gathering together around your word -[3835.84 --> 3838.84] In worship that you meet us in extraordinary ways -[3841.84 --> 3843.84] Father, as we come together -[3843.84 --> 3845.84] We come out of habit -[3846.84 --> 3847.84] We come out of need -[3847.84 --> 3849.84] We come crying out to you -[3850.84 --> 3851.84] We come, Lord God -[3851.84 --> 3854.84] Hoping and praying that you would meet us in this place -[3855.84 --> 3857.84] And so open the eyes of our heart -[3858.84 --> 3860.84] To see you, Lord Jesus -[3862.84 --> 3865.84] Move in us by the renewing of our minds -[3866.84 --> 3867.84] By the transforming of our lives -[3867.84 --> 3868.84] That we might go from this place -[3868.84 --> 3870.84] That we might go from this place -[3870.84 --> 3873.84] In a spiritual act of worship -[3874.84 --> 3877.84] That we might as the gems have taught us -[3878.84 --> 3881.84] That we might go with you -[3882.84 --> 3885.84] That we might go, Lord God -[3886.84 --> 3888.84] In the power of your name -[3889.84 --> 3890.84] And of your word -[3891.84 --> 3892.84] To act justly -[3893.84 --> 3894.84] To love mercy -[3894.84 --> 3896.84] And to walk humbly -[3897.84 --> 3898.84] With you -[3899.84 --> 3900.84] We praise your name, God -[3901.84 --> 3902.84] For this Gems ministry -[3903.84 --> 3905.84] For 50 years of faithful service -[3906.84 --> 3908.84] In leading girls and young women -[3909.84 --> 3910.84] To meeting you, our Savior -[3911.84 --> 3914.84] We pray a prayer of blessing on them -[3915.84 --> 3916.84] And on their counselors -[3917.84 --> 3918.84] And on all the work that is done -[3918.84 --> 3920.84] In shaping and forming faith in you -[3921.84 --> 3923.84] Bless that work, we pray -[3925.84 --> 3927.84] Bless them and all that they do -[3928.84 --> 3930.84] And as they get excited for Gems camp coming up -[3931.84 --> 3933.84] We pray a blessing on that -[3934.84 --> 3939.84] Father, we pray for your hand to be on all the ministries -[3940.84 --> 3942.84] And mission of this church -[3943.84 --> 3945.84] We thank you for the way that we see you at work -[3946.84 --> 3949.84] And we pray that we would use those opportunities -[3949.84 --> 3950.84] The opportunities of seeing you -[3950.84 --> 3952.84] To trust that you are at work -[3953.84 --> 3954.84] Even when we can't see it -[3955.84 --> 3958.84] We thank you for all the volunteers -[3959.84 --> 3961.84] And the people of this church family that make those things possible -[3962.84 --> 3966.84] We pray, Lord, that you would bless and keep each one -[3967.84 --> 3972.84] We pray, Lord, that you would hold back experiences of fatigue -[3972.84 --> 3973.84] And frustration -[3974.84 --> 3979.84] And that you would allow us to serve with joy and compassion -[3983.84 --> 3984.84] God, as we come before you -[3985.84 --> 3987.84] We also want to lift up those whom we know and love -[3988.84 --> 3989.84] Who are receiving treatment -[3990.84 --> 3991.84] Who are receiving care -[3991.84 --> 3994.84] We continue to pray for Cy and for John -[3994.84 --> 3996.84] As they receive different treatments -[3997.84 --> 3998.84] For cancer -[3999.84 --> 4001.84] Asking that you would bless them and keep them -[4002.84 --> 4005.84] That you would bring both healing and peace to them -[4006.84 --> 4010.84] In the midst of these hard days and these trials of health -[4010.84 --> 4016.84] God, for all of us who are dealing with aging bodies -[4017.84 --> 4018.84] Or breaking bodies -[4019.84 --> 4020.84] We pray that you would give strength -[4021.84 --> 4023.84] That you would give healing -[4024.84 --> 4029.84] Whether that healing comes by medical means and by treatment -[4030.84 --> 4032.84] Or comes by miraculous means -[4033.84 --> 4034.84] We pray, God, that in all of it -[4035.84 --> 4037.84] We would have eyes to see that it is by your hand -[4037.84 --> 4040.84] And help us to praise you for it -[4040.84 --> 4046.84] Lord, our God, for those who are caring for loved ones -[4047.84 --> 4050.84] Whether they are parents or family members -[4051.84 --> 4054.84] Or friends who are struggling -[4055.84 --> 4059.84] We pray that you would bring healing and hope -[4060.84 --> 4063.84] We pray that in those relationships -[4063.84 --> 4067.84] That you would bring restoration and strength -[4068.84 --> 4069.84] And we pray, Lord God -[4070.84 --> 4073.84] For those of us who are providing care in whatever circumstance -[4074.84 --> 4075.84] We pray for endurance -[4076.84 --> 4078.84] We pray that you would strengthen caregivers -[4079.84 --> 4082.84] To run the race that is marked out for them -[4083.84 --> 4087.84] And that in the midst of their serving someone in love -[4087.84 --> 4092.84] That they would do so with the heart of you, Jesus, our Savior -[4093.84 --> 4097.84] That we would do so with a kind of compassion that reveals your love for the world -[4098.84 --> 4105.84] Father, we pray as well for those whom we know and love who are mourning -[4106.84 --> 4110.84] We pray, God, for Peter, Trudy, and for the whole family -[4110.84 --> 4113.84] As they mourn the loss of Sean -[4114.84 --> 4116.84] In a crying out of grief, Lord God -[4117.84 --> 4119.84] We don't understand, it doesn't make sense -[4120.84 --> 4122.84] We don't know how these things can happen -[4123.84 --> 4124.84] Or how you let them happen -[4125.84 --> 4126.84] And we wonder -[4127.84 --> 4128.84] We're confused -[4129.84 --> 4130.84] In our hurt -[4131.84 --> 4132.84] In our despair -[4133.84 --> 4135.84] Gather us up with your love -[4136.84 --> 4137.84] Draw us to yourself -[4137.84 --> 4140.84] That even though we walk through the valley of the shadow of death -[4141.84 --> 4142.84] We would fear no evil -[4143.84 --> 4144.84] For you are with us -[4145.84 --> 4151.84] That even though we face and feel anxiety -[4152.84 --> 4154.84] That we would cast our cares upon you -[4155.84 --> 4157.84] And that you would uphold us -[4158.84 --> 4161.84] Help us in our grief -[4162.84 --> 4166.84] Sustain us in our joy -[4168.84 --> 4170.84] Whether we mourn or whether we rejoice -[4171.84 --> 4172.84] We do so, Lord God -[4173.84 --> 4174.84] As your body together -[4176.84 --> 4179.84] We do so coming to you for nourishment -[4180.84 --> 4181.84] And so, Lord God, as we open your word -[4182.84 --> 4184.84] Nourish us by its proclamation -[4185.84 --> 4187.84] Nourish us by the gospel of Jesus Christ -[4188.84 --> 4189.84] That in these words spoken -[4190.84 --> 4191.84] We would hear the very voice of Jesus -[4192.84 --> 4194.84] Speaking to our hearts -[4194.84 --> 4197.84] Open our minds to you -[4198.84 --> 4199.84] In this moment -[4200.84 --> 4201.84] In Jesus name we pray -[4202.84 --> 4203.84] Amen -[4204.84 --> 4205.84] Amen -[4206.84 --> 4207.84] Amen -[4208.84 --> 4209.84] Amen -[4210.84 --> 4211.84] Amen -[4212.84 --> 4213.84] Amen -[4214.84 --> 4215.84] Amen -[4216.84 --> 4217.84] Amen -[4217.84 --> 4218.84] Amen -[4218.84 --> 4219.84] Amen -[4219.84 --> 4220.84] Amen -[4220.84 --> 4221.84] So, it was -[4221.84 --> 4222.84] Perhaps -[4223.84 --> 4224.84] said in passing -[4225.84 --> 4227.84] But this year -[4228.84 --> 4230.84] Is the 50th anniversary -[4231.84 --> 4233.84] Of the GEMS ministry -[4234.84 --> 4235.84] Five-zero -[4236.84 --> 4240.84] Now, at some point in that time -[4241.84 --> 4242.84] It changed names -[4243.84 --> 4244.84] Girls up front -[4244.84 --> 4245.84] Do you know -[4245.84 --> 4246.84] Do you know -[4246.84 --> 4247.84] Counselors, not you -[4247.84 --> 4248.84] Do you know what it was called -[4248.84 --> 4249.84] Let's say -[4249.84 --> 4250.84] When your moms -[4250.84 --> 4252.84] Or your family members -[4253.84 --> 4254.84] Did this same program -[4254.84 --> 4255.84] When they were little? -[4256.84 --> 4257.84] Calvinettes -[4258.84 --> 4259.84] What a lovely name -[4259.84 --> 4260.84] Am I right? -[4261.84 --> 4262.84] I think the name change was great -[4263.84 --> 4264.84] Right? -[4264.84 --> 4265.84] Yeah, absolutely -[4265.84 --> 4266.84] But here's what I'm interested in -[4267.84 --> 4268.84] Okay, so -[4268.84 --> 4269.84] These girls here -[4269.84 --> 4271.84] Are in our current GEMS program -[4271.84 --> 4272.84] You counselors are with them -[4272.84 --> 4273.84] So I'm going to invite you -[4273.84 --> 4274.84] Just to stand -[4274.84 --> 4275.84] For a second -[4275.84 --> 4276.84] Right? -[4276.84 --> 4277.84] We'll call this maybe a -[4277.84 --> 4278.84] Seventh-inning stretch -[4279.84 --> 4280.84] Okay, so this -[4281.84 --> 4282.84] Is representative -[4283.84 --> 4284.84] Not everyone who comes to GEMS -[4284.84 --> 4285.84] Is here this morning -[4286.84 --> 4288.84] But this is representative of that group -[4289.84 --> 4290.84] Now, if you -[4291.84 --> 4292.84] At some point in your life -[4293.84 --> 4294.84] Were part of GEMS -[4295.84 --> 4296.84] Now, I said GEMS -[4297.84 --> 4298.84] So if you attended this program -[4298.84 --> 4299.84] While it was called GEMS -[4299.84 --> 4300.84] Would you also please -[4301.84 --> 4302.84] Stand up? -[4305.84 --> 4306.84] There's a few -[4306.84 --> 4307.84] There we go -[4307.84 --> 4308.84] Coming around -[4308.84 --> 4309.84] Excellent -[4309.84 --> 4310.84] Thank you for finally being called in -[4311.84 --> 4313.84] Now, if you attended this program -[4313.84 --> 4315.84] When it was called Calvinettes -[4316.84 --> 4317.84] Would you please stand up? -[4323.84 --> 4324.84] Yeah, some people are begrudgingly -[4324.84 --> 4326.84] Like I'm not really that old, am I? -[4326.84 --> 4328.84] Yes -[4329.84 --> 4330.84] Yes, you are -[4331.84 --> 4332.84] But just take a moment -[4332.84 --> 4333.84] Girls up front -[4333.84 --> 4334.84] And look around -[4337.84 --> 4338.84] Right? -[4338.84 --> 4339.84] All of these women standing here -[4340.84 --> 4343.84] Have done what you are doing -[4344.84 --> 4347.84] All of these women have met their savior -[4348.84 --> 4350.84] Through the kinds of work that you guys get to do -[4350.84 --> 4352.84] Whether it's crafts or counseling -[4352.84 --> 4353.84] Or praying together -[4353.84 --> 4354.84] Or -[4355.84 --> 4357.84] Half-heartedly dancing with streamers -[4358.84 --> 4359.84] For a camera -[4359.84 --> 4360.84] Although Olivia, you did great work -[4363.84 --> 4365.84] The legacy of the GEMS program -[4366.84 --> 4368.84] Really is a beautiful thing -[4369.84 --> 4372.84] And as these women have shared that story -[4372.84 --> 4374.84] And as you are living into it -[4374.84 --> 4375.84] I pray -[4375.84 --> 4376.84] That maybe -[4378.84 --> 4379.84] You might be able to stand up -[4379.84 --> 4380.84] In 20 years time -[4381.84 --> 4382.84] And do the same -[4383.84 --> 4384.84] Or 25 years time -[4384.84 --> 4385.84] Whether it's with your own girls -[4386.84 --> 4387.84] Or as a counselor -[4388.84 --> 4389.84] Or just part of a community -[4389.84 --> 4390.84] That does this kind of thing for you -[4391.84 --> 4393.84] Because this is an amazing picture -[4393.84 --> 4394.84] Of discipleship -[4394.84 --> 4395.84] And Christian family -[4396.84 --> 4397.84] In the church together -[4397.84 --> 4398.84] And I just want everyone to see it -[4398.84 --> 4399.84] And I want to praise God -[4400.84 --> 4401.84] For it -[4401.84 --> 4402.84] So thank you for standing -[4402.84 --> 4403.84] You may have a seat -[4405.84 --> 4407.84] Now for that entire duration -[4408.84 --> 4409.84] Of 50 years -[4409.84 --> 4411.84] The GEMS and the Calvinettes -[4412.84 --> 4413.84] Have focused their work on -[4414.84 --> 4415.84] Micah 6 verse 8 -[4416.84 --> 4417.84] So we're going to spend some time -[4417.84 --> 4418.84] Focusing on that together -[4419.84 --> 4420.84] This morning -[4420.84 --> 4421.84] I'm going to read -[4421.84 --> 4423.84] Actually starting at verse 6 -[4424.84 --> 4425.84] So that we can highlight -[4425.84 --> 4427.84] The impact of verse 8 -[4427.84 --> 4428.84] When we get there -[4428.84 --> 4429.84] So if you have a Bible open -[4429.84 --> 4432.84] I invite you to find Micah 6 -[4433.84 --> 4435.84] And to read along with me -[4436.84 --> 4438.84] It will be on the screen -[4438.84 --> 4439.84] Behind me as well -[4442.84 --> 4446.84] Micah writes -[4447.84 --> 4450.84] With what shall I come before the Lord? -[4450.84 --> 4455.84] And bow down before the exalted God -[4456.84 --> 4459.84] Shall I come before him with burnt offerings? -[4460.84 --> 4461.84] With calves a year old? -[4462.84 --> 4465.84] Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams? -[4466.84 --> 4468.84] With ten thousand rivers of olive oil? -[4469.84 --> 4472.84] Shall I offer my firstborn for my transgression -[4473.84 --> 4476.84] The fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? -[4476.84 --> 4478.84] And here's verse 8 -[4478.84 --> 4480.84] He has shown you, O mortal -[4481.84 --> 4482.84] What is good -[4483.84 --> 4485.84] And what does the Lord require of you? -[4485.84 --> 4487.84] To walk with you -[4488.84 --> 4489.84] To walk with you -[4490.84 --> 4491.84] And walk with you -[4492.84 --> 4493.84] Very good -[4494.84 --> 4495.84] Micah 6 verse 8 -[4495.84 --> 4497.84] We all had to learn to say the scripture verse -[4497.84 --> 4498.84] On the thing overhead, right? -[4498.84 --> 4499.84] That's right -[4499.84 --> 4500.84] To act justly -[4500.84 --> 4501.84] To love mercy -[4501.84 --> 4503.84] And to walk humbly -[4503.84 --> 4505.84] With our God -[4505.84 --> 4507.84] This is the word of the Lord -[4507.84 --> 4521.84] So in order to help us see the beauty, I think -[4521.84 --> 4524.84] Of what this text can mean for us -[4525.84 --> 4529.84] I want to just underscore a little bit of the history -[4530.84 --> 4531.84] Of what's going on -[4532.84 --> 4536.84] And so Micah is a prophet in the region of Judah -[4537.84 --> 4539.84] Now I think we have a map that we can throw up on screen -[4540.84 --> 4544.84] And so this is the general area of Israel -[4545.84 --> 4546.84] Modern day Israel as well -[4546.84 --> 4548.84] And in the southern part of it -[4548.84 --> 4550.84] So the bottom part of the map -[4550.84 --> 4551.84] You see a region called Judah -[4552.84 --> 4553.84] And then north of that -[4553.84 --> 4555.84] You'll see a region called Israel -[4556.84 --> 4557.84] And then even north yet of that -[4557.84 --> 4560.84] You'll see a kingdom of Syria -[4561.84 --> 4563.84] Micah is a prophet -[4564.84 --> 4567.84] In the latter part of the 8th century B.C. -[4568.84 --> 4572.84] He starts prophesying sometime around 739 B.C. -[4572.84 --> 4575.84] And we know this because in Micah 1.1 -[4576.84 --> 4577.84] It says the word of the Lord -[4577.84 --> 4579.84] That came to Micah of Moresheth -[4580.84 --> 4582.84] During the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah -[4583.84 --> 4584.84] So we have this king -[4585.84 --> 4589.84] The reign of kings marking out history for us -[4590.84 --> 4592.84] Now at this time in this region -[4593.84 --> 4595.84] Syria is a ruling power -[4596.84 --> 4598.84] The northern kingdom of Israel -[4598.84 --> 4600.84] So Israel has split into two -[4601.84 --> 4602.84] Israel and Judah -[4603.84 --> 4604.84] The northern kingdom of Israel -[4605.84 --> 4607.84] Has fallen in 722 B.C. -[4608.84 --> 4609.84] With the siege of Samaria -[4610.84 --> 4611.84] And so if you have really good eyes -[4611.84 --> 4613.84] You'll see in Israel Samaria there -[4614.84 --> 4616.84] That's the capital of that region -[4617.84 --> 4620.84] And now Judah, the southern kingdom -[4621.84 --> 4625.84] Spent some time in alliance with Egypt -[4625.84 --> 4627.84] The king of Egypt -[4628.84 --> 4631.84] Trying to get out from under the rule -[4632.84 --> 4634.84] Of the Assyrian Empire -[4635.84 --> 4637.84] And what happens as a result of that -[4638.84 --> 4640.84] Is that Hezekiah, the king, gets fined -[4641.84 --> 4642.84] And the region kind of gets divided up -[4643.84 --> 4647.84] Now, because Judah exists where it does -[4648.84 --> 4649.84] Right? -[4649.84 --> 4653.84] It's kind of in the middle of this fertile crescent region -[4654.84 --> 4656.84] And you have Syria to the north -[4657.84 --> 4658.84] And Egypt to the southwest -[4659.84 --> 4661.84] And Moab and Edom to the southeast -[4662.84 --> 4664.84] And beyond that the Arabian Peninsula -[4665.84 --> 4666.84] What that means is -[4667.84 --> 4669.84] It has become a sort of hub of commerce -[4670.84 --> 4671.84] And economic prosperity -[4672.84 --> 4673.84] Right? -[4673.84 --> 4676.84] So to get anywhere through and around the fertile crescent -[4676.84 --> 4679.84] You have to go through the region of Judah -[4680.84 --> 4682.84] Now one of the things that that ends up meaning -[4683.84 --> 4687.84] Is that there is a time of like economic revolution -[4688.84 --> 4691.84] And prosperity that's happening for these people -[4692.84 --> 4693.84] That is, they're really wealthy -[4694.84 --> 4695.84] They have everything they need -[4696.84 --> 4697.84] Life is good -[4698.84 --> 4699.84] Right? -[4699.84 --> 4702.84] People are generally feeling pretty good -[4702.84 --> 4704.84] About the way things are -[4705.84 --> 4708.84] At least the leaders and the ruling class -[4709.84 --> 4710.84] In the temples and in the palaces do -[4711.84 --> 4712.84] And those who kind of run the markets -[4713.84 --> 4714.84] Right? -[4714.84 --> 4715.84] That everyone has to come through -[4716.84 --> 4719.84] And then that kind of has the effect of lifting everyone up -[4720.84 --> 4723.84] But that wealth, that material blessing -[4724.84 --> 4725.84] All the stuff that they have -[4726.84 --> 4727.84] Is a bit of a mixed blessing for them -[4727.84 --> 4732.84] And when you look at the impact of what happens here -[4733.84 --> 4736.84] It becomes clear that the people fall into -[4737.84 --> 4739.84] A kind of selfish materialism -[4740.84 --> 4742.84] That is, they wanted more and more stuff -[4743.84 --> 4744.84] They wanted the next new thing -[4745.84 --> 4747.84] Whatever that was back then -[4748.84 --> 4750.84] And then they started to think about religion -[4751.84 --> 4753.84] And about religious practices -[4753.84 --> 4756.84] As a way to get more stuff -[4757.84 --> 4760.84] As a way to have more material items -[4761.84 --> 4762.84] Right? -[4762.84 --> 4764.84] As a sort of idea that God is there -[4765.84 --> 4766.84] To make you feel good -[4767.84 --> 4768.84] And to make your life fun -[4769.84 --> 4770.84] And so people would pray -[4771.84 --> 4772.84] Or they would go to temple -[4773.84 --> 4774.84] Or they would make sacrifices -[4775.84 --> 4776.84] Because what they wanted was to get something back -[4777.84 --> 4778.84] From God -[4778.84 --> 4779.84] And so God -[4781.84 --> 4782.84] And religion -[4782.84 --> 4784.84] Kind of becomes like a vending machine -[4785.84 --> 4786.84] Right? -[4786.84 --> 4788.84] You know what happens when you put a coin -[4789.84 --> 4790.84] Well, it's probably a bill now actually -[4791.84 --> 4792.84] Right? -[4792.84 --> 4793.84] A bill in a vending machine -[4793.84 --> 4794.84] Or tap it -[4794.84 --> 4795.84] And then you push C4 -[4796.84 --> 4797.84] Right? -[4797.84 --> 4798.84] And then chips or whatever falls out -[4799.84 --> 4800.84] Right? -[4800.84 --> 4801.84] That's how they started treating God -[4802.84 --> 4803.84] They used their religious practices -[4804.84 --> 4805.84] To get something in return -[4805.84 --> 4806.84] Put in the right prayer -[4806.84 --> 4807.84] And you'll get a bigger harvest -[4808.84 --> 4809.84] Sacrifice the right amount -[4810.84 --> 4811.84] And your son would get the apprenticeship -[4812.84 --> 4813.84] With the neighbor's business -[4814.84 --> 4815.84] Go to church enough -[4815.84 --> 4816.84] And the girls at school -[4816.84 --> 4817.84] Will stop bullying you -[4818.84 --> 4819.84] Because you've done the right thing -[4820.84 --> 4822.84] And with that sort of cost benefit -[4823.84 --> 4825.84] Utilitarian approach to religion -[4826.84 --> 4827.84] What the New Testament will later call -[4828.84 --> 4829.84] The cost of discipleship -[4830.84 --> 4831.84] The call to obedience -[4831.84 --> 4834.84] The moral impact on people's lives -[4834.84 --> 4835.84] Starts to be lost -[4836.84 --> 4838.84] There's a breakdown of personal -[4839.84 --> 4840.84] And social values -[4841.84 --> 4843.84] There's one Bible scholar who said -[4844.84 --> 4846.84] Even the religious leaders -[4847.84 --> 4848.84] The priests and the prophets -[4849.84 --> 4851.84] Did little more than echo the spirit of the period -[4852.84 --> 4854.84] Buttressing the society that gave them their livelihood -[4857.84 --> 4859.84] Now this is the point that Micah is making -[4859.84 --> 4860.84] In the first two verses that we read -[4860.84 --> 4862.84] In verse 6 and 7 -[4863.84 --> 4864.84] Right? -[4864.84 --> 4865.84] When he says -[4865.84 --> 4866.84] With what shall I come before the Lord -[4867.84 --> 4868.84] And bow down before the exalted God -[4869.84 --> 4872.84] He is putting us in the context of their situation -[4873.84 --> 4876.84] And helping us to see that their approach to religion -[4877.84 --> 4878.84] And their relationship to God -[4879.84 --> 4881.84] To their covenant with him -[4882.84 --> 4884.84] That's the word that we use for a special relationship to God -[4885.84 --> 4886.84] Has been changed -[4886.84 --> 4889.84] He's picking up on the ways that they have been using -[4890.84 --> 4892.84] Or abusing that relationship -[4893.84 --> 4894.84] They've made it about themselves -[4895.84 --> 4897.84] Rather than about God's glory -[4898.84 --> 4901.84] And so in their vending machine approach to God -[4902.84 --> 4904.84] They make sacrifices in order to get something in return -[4905.84 --> 4906.84] And so Micah says -[4907.84 --> 4908.84] Shall I come before him with burnt offerings -[4909.84 --> 4910.84] With calves a year old -[4911.84 --> 4912.84] And to make the point he uses hyperbole -[4912.84 --> 4914.84] So he exaggerates -[4915.84 --> 4916.84] Right? -[4916.84 --> 4917.84] He says -[4917.84 --> 4918.84] Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams -[4919.84 --> 4920.84] With ten thousand rivers of olive oil? -[4921.84 --> 4924.84] The people have been thinking about their relationship to God -[4925.84 --> 4929.84] From the perspective of what they can get out of it -[4930.84 --> 4933.84] Now that kind of approach -[4934.84 --> 4937.84] To church and to God and to faith -[4937.84 --> 4939.84] Is really easy for all of us -[4940.84 --> 4941.84] Right? -[4941.84 --> 4942.84] It doesn't really matter how old you are -[4943.84 --> 4944.84] Whether you are a Gems girl -[4944.84 --> 4945.84] Or you're in your eighties -[4946.84 --> 4948.84] Whether you are a preteen or a teenager -[4949.84 --> 4950.84] Or you're in your forties -[4951.84 --> 4954.84] And maybe this is especially true -[4955.84 --> 4956.84] Right? -[4956.84 --> 4957.84] When there's an injustice in your life -[4958.84 --> 4959.84] Or when things seem unfair -[4960.84 --> 4961.84] Right? -[4961.84 --> 4962.84] Maybe there's someone -[4963.84 --> 4965.84] Who, or a group of someones -[4965.84 --> 4966.84] Right? -[4966.84 --> 4968.84] Who make fun of you regularly -[4969.84 --> 4970.84] Right? -[4970.84 --> 4971.84] Who bully you -[4971.84 --> 4972.84] And maybe -[4972.84 --> 4973.84] When you go home and you pray -[4973.84 --> 4974.84] You're like -[4974.84 --> 4976.84] God, I do everything right -[4977.84 --> 4978.84] Right? -[4978.84 --> 4979.84] I don't say anything mean back to them -[4980.84 --> 4981.84] I do good -[4982.84 --> 4983.84] I help out -[4983.84 --> 4984.84] With other people -[4984.84 --> 4985.84] I go to church -[4985.84 --> 4986.84] I go to Gems every other week -[4987.84 --> 4988.84] Why would you let this happen to me? -[4990.84 --> 4991.84] And that's the language of bargain -[4991.84 --> 4995.84] That's the language that Micah is addressing -[4996.84 --> 4998.84] That's the language of a vending machine God -[5000.84 --> 5002.84] And maybe, again, in another way -[5003.84 --> 5004.84] Maybe when you really want something -[5005.84 --> 5007.84] When you really want to go somewhere -[5008.84 --> 5009.84] Let's say -[5010.84 --> 5011.84] Maybe it's Disney or whomever -[5012.84 --> 5013.84] Wherever -[5014.84 --> 5015.84] Right? -[5015.84 --> 5016.84] If you let me do this -[5016.84 --> 5018.84] If you give this to me -[5018.84 --> 5020.84] I'll give my life to you -[5021.84 --> 5022.84] I'll do this for you -[5023.84 --> 5025.84] If you let me go to Disney this weekend -[5026.84 --> 5027.84] I'll make sure every weekend after this -[5028.84 --> 5029.84] I volunteer in the nursery at church -[5030.84 --> 5032.84] Or I do something really good for mom and dad -[5033.84 --> 5036.84] Or I will make dinner for my grandpa or my grandma -[5037.84 --> 5039.84] Again, that's an approach to God -[5039.84 --> 5041.84] That offers payment to him -[5042.84 --> 5044.84] For a blessing that he gives -[5045.84 --> 5046.84] And now -[5047.84 --> 5050.84] I'm aware that these first couple scenarios -[5051.84 --> 5052.84] Are relatively inane -[5053.84 --> 5054.84] They're maybe everyday -[5055.84 --> 5056.84] But what if -[5057.84 --> 5058.84] It's more serious? -[5060.84 --> 5061.84] Right? -[5061.84 --> 5062.84] Maybe in the quiet moments of your life -[5063.84 --> 5065.84] Maybe in your bedroom at night -[5065.84 --> 5066.84] You think to yourself -[5066.84 --> 5067.84] God -[5068.84 --> 5069.84] Why did you make me like this? -[5071.84 --> 5072.84] This isn't fair -[5073.84 --> 5074.84] Can't you fix it? -[5075.84 --> 5076.84] Can't you change it? -[5076.84 --> 5077.84] Can't you change me? -[5078.84 --> 5079.84] Right? Maybe your prayer -[5080.84 --> 5081.84] Or your wish -[5081.84 --> 5082.84] Is that you could just be like everyone else -[5084.84 --> 5086.84] But it's not what you feel, right? -[5087.84 --> 5088.84] And you feel like God -[5088.84 --> 5089.84] You should fix this -[5090.84 --> 5091.84] Maybe you feel like God -[5091.84 --> 5092.84] Should take it away from you -[5093.84 --> 5094.84] And that all the pain and the hardship -[5094.84 --> 5095.84] Should just be gone -[5096.84 --> 5098.84] And that if he's such a good God -[5098.84 --> 5100.84] Why wouldn't he do that? -[5104.84 --> 5105.84] And then -[5106.84 --> 5108.84] What happens if that's what we feel -[5109.84 --> 5110.84] And that's what we pray -[5111.84 --> 5112.84] And God doesn't do it? -[5113.84 --> 5114.84] Right? If he doesn't meet our needs -[5115.84 --> 5118.84] Or he doesn't function in response to our questions -[5119.84 --> 5123.84] Or our asking if he doesn't do what we've put our vending machine dollar in for him to do -[5123.84 --> 5124.84] Right? -[5124.84 --> 5126.84] Then maybe you get angry -[5127.84 --> 5128.84] Maybe you get upset -[5129.84 --> 5131.84] Maybe you put down an ultimatum -[5131.84 --> 5132.84] And you say -[5132.84 --> 5133.84] God unless you do this -[5133.84 --> 5134.84] I'm gonna leave -[5136.84 --> 5139.84] Or maybe you decide to forget God -[5140.84 --> 5142.84] And take matters into your own hands -[5143.84 --> 5144.84] Whatever that's gonna look like -[5145.84 --> 5146.84] In that situation -[5146.84 --> 5148.84] And look -[5148.84 --> 5149.84] Girls, especially this morning -[5150.84 --> 5151.84] Like I want you to hear -[5152.84 --> 5155.84] One of the most beautiful things about this GEMS program -[5156.84 --> 5158.84] And what we illustrated by standing together before -[5159.84 --> 5161.84] Is that you get put into relationships -[5162.84 --> 5165.84] With women and other women in your life and in your church -[5166.84 --> 5168.84] Right? That you get put into a relationship with older women -[5168.84 --> 5170.84] Who know some of these things -[5170.84 --> 5171.84] Who've experienced some of these things -[5172.84 --> 5175.84] And who just really want to be with you in the midst of that -[5176.84 --> 5178.84] I know that your counselors want to talk to you -[5179.84 --> 5180.84] And they want to pray with you -[5180.84 --> 5182.84] And they want to meet you wherever you are -[5183.84 --> 5184.84] Right? Even those things that you don't feel like -[5185.84 --> 5187.84] Maybe you can talk to mom or dad about -[5188.84 --> 5189.84] They want to be there -[5189.84 --> 5190.84] I know that that's true -[5191.84 --> 5194.84] And this is true in the bigger church for all of us -[5194.84 --> 5196.84] Right? That in our struggle -[5196.84 --> 5198.84] In our hardships -[5199.84 --> 5200.84] We are not alone -[5200.84 --> 5201.84] We are never alone -[5202.84 --> 5204.84] You never have to feel alone or forsaken -[5205.84 --> 5207.84] Or when you feel alone or forsaken -[5208.84 --> 5210.84] May I just say boldly and with clarity -[5211.84 --> 5212.84] You are not -[5213.84 --> 5214.84] Because we are here -[5216.84 --> 5217.84] And that in our struggles -[5218.84 --> 5220.84] Right? There are people who -[5221.84 --> 5223.84] Who love you and who want to care for you -[5223.84 --> 5225.84] There are people who -[5226.84 --> 5228.84] Who want to walk through the valley of the shadow of death -[5229.84 --> 5230.84] Like we just prayed -[5230.84 --> 5233.84] Who want to live into the dark night of the soul with you -[5234.84 --> 5238.84] People who, when our hearts and our eyes fail -[5239.84 --> 5240.84] When our lives wander -[5241.84 --> 5242.84] They want to bring us back to Jesus -[5242.84 --> 5243.84] But -[5248.84 --> 5250.84] And now hear me carefully -[5253.84 --> 5256.84] This vending machine relationship to God -[5257.84 --> 5258.84] Is not what he wants for you -[5259.84 --> 5262.84] Right? Yes, God has designs for your life -[5263.84 --> 5266.84] He has plans for you and he has hopes for you -[5267.84 --> 5269.84] Right? He has gifts to give each one of you -[5269.84 --> 5273.84] And God does say that life with him is life abundant -[5274.84 --> 5278.84] But we have to remember to let him define abundance -[5279.84 --> 5285.84] Right? The truth is, of course, that every good and perfect gift comes from above -[5286.84 --> 5288.84] The truth is that God hears our prayers -[5289.84 --> 5292.84] And he responds and he acts in the world according to the prayers of his church -[5292.84 --> 5296.84] Right? And I really do believe Jesus when he says -[5297.84 --> 5299.84] Ask and it will be given to you -[5300.84 --> 5301.84] Seek and you will find -[5302.84 --> 5304.84] Knock and the door will be opened to you -[5305.84 --> 5307.84] And I also believe that sometimes -[5308.84 --> 5309.84] When we ask -[5310.84 --> 5312.84] We don't actually know what it is we're asking for -[5313.84 --> 5316.84] And I also believe that God has a far better view of the world -[5317.84 --> 5319.84] Than you or I will ever have -[5319.84 --> 5323.84] And so that what I actually need in any given moment -[5324.84 --> 5325.84] I probably don't know -[5326.84 --> 5327.84] But he does -[5328.84 --> 5333.84] And so if he chooses to answer my prayer differently than I think he should -[5334.84 --> 5335.84] I have to trust his wisdom -[5336.84 --> 5337.84] And not rely on mine -[5338.84 --> 5340.84] Right? I have to believe that if God doesn't give you what you want -[5340.84 --> 5342.84] It's because he has something better -[5343.84 --> 5345.84] Or he's already given you something better -[5346.84 --> 5349.84] Or he's preparing you for something else that's yet to come -[5351.84 --> 5352.84] And I get it -[5353.84 --> 5355.84] Because that can be really hard -[5356.84 --> 5357.84] And it can be confusing -[5358.84 --> 5360.84] And none of it makes sense at times -[5361.84 --> 5364.84] Truth, of course, is that -[5364.84 --> 5371.84] Even though God has given us people like counselors and church families -[5372.84 --> 5374.84] Truth is people will disappoint you -[5375.84 --> 5379.84] And that parents will frustrate you -[5380.84 --> 5385.84] And the truth, of course, is that in this world you will have trouble -[5385.84 --> 5394.84] And while a relationship with God can sustain you through those troubled times -[5395.84 --> 5397.84] And through those kinds of hardships -[5398.84 --> 5400.84] While a relationship with church and with meaningful people -[5401.84 --> 5404.84] Like counselors and friends and mentors can help you -[5405.84 --> 5409.84] While a relationship with God will sustain you through those times of trouble -[5409.84 --> 5413.84] A relationship with God will not stop those times from coming -[5414.84 --> 5421.84] That's the problem that Micah wants to make sure we see that he is addressing his people through -[5422.84 --> 5426.84] People who thought that they could use God to make life better -[5427.84 --> 5435.84] Instead, I believe what God wants is for you to see how he uses us to make life better -[5435.84 --> 5439.84] Right? The people try to use God to make life better for themselves -[5440.84 --> 5443.84] God wants to use people to make life better for others -[5444.84 --> 5450.84] That's what you guys get to focus on in act, love, walk -[5451.84 --> 5454.84] He has shown you, O mortal, what is good -[5455.84 --> 5457.84] What does the Lord require of you to act justly -[5458.84 --> 5462.84] To love mercy and to walk humbly with your God -[5462.84 --> 5466.84] The prophet Hosea makes a very similar point to all of this -[5467.84 --> 5470.84] In a very similar circumstance that the people are facing -[5471.84 --> 5475.84] Because, let's face it, we are thick and we struggle to see God as God -[5476.84 --> 5477.84] And not as a vending machine -[5478.84 --> 5480.84] And so many times we default in our relationship to God -[5481.84 --> 5482.84] To manipulation rather than mercy -[5483.84 --> 5486.84] And so Hosea says, for instance, in Hosea 6, 6 -[5486.84 --> 5489.84] For I desire mercy, not sacrifice -[5490.84 --> 5494.84] And for acknowledgement of God rather than burnt offerings -[5495.84 --> 5497.84] Right, hear this -[5498.84 --> 5501.84] The rituals of prayer and worship and sacrifice -[5502.84 --> 5506.84] Are all meaningless if they don't connect to life lived on the outside -[5507.84 --> 5508.84] Every other day of the week -[5508.84 --> 5513.84] If they don't transform your heart and your mind and what you do in the world -[5514.84 --> 5516.84] These actions are pointless -[5517.84 --> 5520.84] And that, I think, is behind the call of Micah -[5521.84 --> 5522.84] To act, to love, and to walk -[5523.84 --> 5526.84] And I think what he's doing is picking up on a theme -[5527.84 --> 5529.84] That's first introduced to us -[5530.84 --> 5532.84] In summary form, anyway, in Deuteronomy 6 -[5532.84 --> 5535.84] Deuteronomy 6, verse 5 says -[5535.84 --> 5537.84] Love the Lord your God with all your heart -[5538.84 --> 5539.84] And with all your soul -[5539.84 --> 5540.84] And with all your strength -[5541.84 --> 5543.84] Right, this is the command that Jesus -[5544.84 --> 5545.84] In Matthew 22 -[5546.84 --> 5547.84] Calls the first and the greatest -[5548.84 --> 5552.84] Right, it's the summary of the law in relationship to God -[5553.84 --> 5559.84] And in both Deuteronomy 6 and Micah 6, verse 8 -[5559.84 --> 5563.84] God is asking for all of who you are -[5564.84 --> 5567.84] For your will and for your desire and for your actions -[5568.84 --> 5571.84] Right, he's asking for your heart to love mercy -[5571.84 --> 5572.84] That's your desire -[5572.84 --> 5575.84] He's asking for your soul, your mind to walk humbly -[5576.84 --> 5577.84] That's your will -[5577.84 --> 5580.84] And he's asking for your strength to act justly -[5581.84 --> 5582.84] That's your action in the world -[5583.84 --> 5586.84] All of who you are is brought into relationship -[5586.84 --> 5589.84] With all of who he is -[5590.84 --> 5592.84] Right, when we connect Micah 6, verse 8 -[5593.84 --> 5594.84] And Deuteronomy 6, 5 -[5594.84 --> 5596.84] We see that there is a straight line -[5597.84 --> 5600.84] Right, to all of life being about worship -[5601.84 --> 5603.84] To all of life being about our relationship to him -[5604.84 --> 5607.84] That's what God wants in relationship with you -[5608.84 --> 5611.84] Because he is most worthy of your worship -[5611.84 --> 5614.84] He's more than just a vending machine -[5615.84 --> 5617.84] He's the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords -[5618.84 --> 5621.84] He is the Creator and the Sustainer and the Father of all -[5622.84 --> 5624.84] And he invites you then to act justly -[5625.84 --> 5626.84] And to love mercy -[5627.84 --> 5629.84] He invites you to walk humbly with him -[5630.84 --> 5632.84] In relationship with him -[5632.84 --> 5637.84] But -[5638.84 --> 5639.84] But -[5641.84 --> 5642.84] But there is -[5643.84 --> 5644.84] Another danger -[5647.84 --> 5648.84] And the rest of you can listen in on this -[5649.84 --> 5650.84] But it's not for you -[5651.84 --> 5653.84] There is another danger -[5654.84 --> 5655.84] Girls -[5656.84 --> 5657.84] That you will hear -[5658.84 --> 5659.84] The call -[5659.84 --> 5660.84] To -[5660.84 --> 5661.84] To -[5662.84 --> 5663.84] Act justly -[5663.84 --> 5664.84] And to love mercy -[5664.84 --> 5666.84] And to walk humbly with your God -[5667.84 --> 5668.84] And you will make it the same thing -[5669.84 --> 5671.84] As that vending machine relationship to God -[5672.84 --> 5674.84] Right, that you will say -[5675.84 --> 5677.84] Unless I do exactly what God wants me to do -[5678.84 --> 5679.84] He's not going to love me -[5680.84 --> 5683.84] Right, unless I act justly in every situation -[5684.84 --> 5685.84] With my brother or with my parents -[5686.84 --> 5687.84] Or with my sister -[5687.84 --> 5688.84] That he's not going to love me -[5688.84 --> 5690.84] Right, unless I -[5691.84 --> 5692.84] I love mercy -[5693.84 --> 5696.84] And forgive them -[5697.84 --> 5698.84] Right away when they do something wrong -[5699.84 --> 5700.84] That God's not going to love me -[5701.84 --> 5703.84] Right, unless I walk humbly -[5704.84 --> 5705.84] That God's going to forget about me -[5706.84 --> 5708.84] See, the danger with this text -[5709.84 --> 5711.84] Is that we so easily just move from like -[5712.84 --> 5713.84] The rituals of doing the right thing in worship -[5714.84 --> 5716.84] To trying to do the right thing in life -[5716.84 --> 5717.84] And then we hang our hat -[5717.84 --> 5719.84] And our relationship with God on that -[5720.84 --> 5722.84] But I have a question -[5723.84 --> 5727.84] How many of you act justly all day, every day? -[5728.84 --> 5731.84] Well, we got half a hand there -[5732.84 --> 5733.84] Keep listening -[5734.84 --> 5736.84] How many of you love mercy all day, every day? -[5737.84 --> 5741.84] And how many of you walk humbly with God all day, every day? -[5742.84 --> 5743.84] You might try -[5744.84 --> 5745.84] And I pray that you do -[5745.84 --> 5746.84] Because it's worth the effort -[5747.84 --> 5749.84] But you and your relationship to God -[5750.84 --> 5752.84] Is not based on the effort that you put in -[5753.84 --> 5755.84] To act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly -[5756.84 --> 5758.84] Because, and this is what I need you to hear this morning -[5759.84 --> 5761.84] There is only one man in all of history -[5762.84 --> 5763.84] Who did that perfectly -[5763.84 --> 5765.84] Who acted justly -[5766.84 --> 5769.84] Who acted justly, no matter what -[5770.84 --> 5773.84] Who loved mercy in every circumstance -[5774.84 --> 5776.84] And who walked humbly with God -[5777.84 --> 5778.84] And his name is Jesus -[5779.84 --> 5783.84] You see, Jesus does what we can't do -[5783.84 --> 5784.84] Jesus does what we can't do -[5785.84 --> 5789.84] And in so doing, he shows us a God who is just -[5790.84 --> 5791.84] A God who is merciful -[5792.84 --> 5797.84] And a God who is humbly reaching out to us -[5798.84 --> 5800.84] In power, calling us to himself -[5801.84 --> 5802.84] Jesus shows us what this is like -[5803.84 --> 5804.84] And not only does he show us -[5805.84 --> 5808.84] But he does it for you -[5808.84 --> 5809.84] Right? -[5810.84 --> 5812.84] What does the Lord require of you? -[5821.84 --> 5823.84] I wasn't even expecting you to respond there -[5826.84 --> 5828.84] He requires it of you -[5829.84 --> 5830.84] But you can't do it -[5831.84 --> 5832.84] You can't -[5833.84 --> 5835.84] But thanks be to God -[5836.84 --> 5837.84] Jesus did -[5839.84 --> 5841.84] And so because he did -[5842.84 --> 5843.84] No matter what -[5844.84 --> 5845.84] No matter what -[5845.84 --> 5847.84] No matter who, or how, or whatever it is that you face -[5848.84 --> 5849.84] Because he did -[5851.84 --> 5852.84] You cannot -[5853.84 --> 5854.84] Fall -[5855.84 --> 5856.84] You cannot -[5857.84 --> 5858.84] Be forgotten -[5859.84 --> 5861.84] You will not ever be let go -[5862.84 --> 5864.84] That is the love of God -[5865.84 --> 5867.84] Available to you in Christ Jesus our Lord -[5868.84 --> 5869.84] Now there is nothing -[5869.84 --> 5870.84] Nothing -[5870.84 --> 5871.84] Nothing in all of the world -[5872.84 --> 5873.84] Whether seen or unseen -[5874.84 --> 5878.84] That can separate you from the love of God in Christ Jesus -[5879.84 --> 5882.84] Girls everywhere meeting the Savior -[5883.84 --> 5886.84] That is who we want you to see -[5887.84 --> 5888.84] Jesus Christ -[5888.84 --> 5889.84] And then -[5889.84 --> 5890.84] Right? -[5890.84 --> 5891.84] Once you see Jesus -[5891.84 --> 5896.84] Once you know him and are known by him -[5897.84 --> 5900.84] Then you get to walk with him -[5901.84 --> 5902.84] Right? -[5902.84 --> 5903.84] Then all of a sudden -[5904.84 --> 5905.84] Acting justly becomes more realistic in your life -[5906.84 --> 5907.84] Because he's given you the power to do it -[5908.84 --> 5909.84] Then all of a sudden -[5909.84 --> 5911.84] Loving mercy becomes more possible in your life -[5911.84 --> 5913.84] Because he's given you the power to do it -[5913.84 --> 5914.84] Right? -[5914.84 --> 5916.84] Walking humbly with God becomes more regular and real -[5916.84 --> 5919.84] Because he is sustaining you in that walk -[5920.84 --> 5926.84] The danger is that it becomes about what we think we have to do -[5926.84 --> 5928.84] The truth is -[5929.84 --> 5930.84] He's already done it -[5931.84 --> 5933.84] And so now we get to go with him -[5934.84 --> 5935.84] In that work -[5936.84 --> 5937.84] Amen girls? -[5938.84 --> 5939.84] Amen girls? -[5940.84 --> 5941.84] Amen church? -[5942.84 --> 5944.84] Let's pray together -[5945.84 --> 5947.84] Holy God -[5947.84 --> 5948.84] Holy God -[5948.84 --> 5949.84] We praise your name -[5950.84 --> 5951.84] For who you are -[5951.84 --> 5955.84] And for what you have done in Christ Jesus -[5957.84 --> 5961.84] Lord Jesus we thank you that you have acted justly -[5962.84 --> 5965.84] We thank you that you have loved mercy in our place -[5966.84 --> 5969.84] We thank you that you show us and have done for us -[5970.84 --> 5972.84] What it means to walk humbly with our God -[5972.84 --> 5976.84] Not only do we look to you Lord Jesus as our example -[5977.84 --> 5982.84] But we look to you as the author and perfecter of our faith -[5983.84 --> 5986.84] We look to you as the one who has granted us a righteousness -[5987.84 --> 5990.84] That comes from God through faith -[5991.84 --> 5992.84] We look to you Lord Jesus -[5993.84 --> 5995.84] And I pray, I pray for each one of these girls -[5996.84 --> 5999.84] And for all the girls in this program -[5999.84 --> 6003.84] That they would meet you, Savior -[6004.84 --> 6008.84] Captivate their hearts with your love -[6009.84 --> 6012.84] That they would rejoice in who you are -[6013.84 --> 6016.84] In Jesus name we pray, Amen -[6016.84 --> 6017.84] Amen -[6017.84 --> 6018.84] Amen -[6018.84 --> 6034.84] We are the of every song we could ever sing -[6034.84 --> 6045.74] Worthy of every song we could ever sing -[6045.74 --> 6052.48] Worthy of all the praise we could ever breathe -[6052.48 --> 6059.58] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe -[6059.58 --> 6062.00] We live for you -[6062.00 --> 6074.38] Jesus, the name above every other name -[6074.38 --> 6081.24] Jesus, the only one who could ever sing -[6081.24 --> 6088.00] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe -[6088.00 --> 6089.98] We live for you -[6089.98 --> 6093.98] We live for you -[6093.98 --> 6101.46] Holy, there is no one like you -[6101.46 --> 6105.04] There is none beside you -[6105.04 --> 6110.00] Open up my eyes in wonder -[6110.00 --> 6114.00] And show me who you are -[6114.00 --> 6117.00] And fill me with your heart -[6117.00 --> 6125.00] And lead me in your love to those around me -[6125.00 --> 6136.48] Jesus, the name above every other name -[6136.48 --> 6145.00] Jesus, the only one who could ever sing -[6145.00 --> 6152.00] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe -[6152.00 --> 6154.00] We live for you -[6154.00 --> 6156.00] We live for you -[6156.00 --> 6157.00] We live for you -[6157.00 --> 6165.00] Holy, there is no one like you -[6165.00 --> 6168.00] There is none beside you -[6168.00 --> 6173.00] Open up my eyes in wonder -[6173.00 --> 6177.00] And show me who you are -[6177.00 --> 6181.00] And fill me with your heart -[6181.00 --> 6188.00] And lead me in your love to those around me -[6188.00 --> 6191.00] And I will build you -[6191.00 --> 6193.00] And I will build you -[6193.00 --> 6198.00] My life upon your love -[6198.00 --> 6211.00] And I will build my life upon your love -[6211.00 --> 6224.00] And I will build my life upon your love -[6224.00 --> 6228.00] It is a firm foundation -[6228.00 --> 6242.20] And I will put my trust in you alone, and I will not be shaken. -[6242.20 --> 6250.16] And I will build my life upon your love. -[6250.16 --> 6269.04] It is a firm foundation, and I will put my trust in you alone, and I will not be shaken. -[6269.04 --> 6274.66] And holy, there is no one like you. -[6275.16 --> 6278.40] There is none beside you. -[6278.40 --> 6299.78] Open up my eyes in wonder, and show me who you are, and fill me with your heart, and lead me in your love to those around me. -[6299.78 --> 6311.36] As you go into this week, go with God. -[6311.62 --> 6320.40] As you go, also go with an invitation to immediately following our gathered worship here to spend some time in the back in community and fellowship. -[6320.60 --> 6326.18] Encourage you to introduce yourself to some of these girls and ask what they've been up to this year. -[6326.96 --> 6328.58] There will be some refreshments available. -[6328.58 --> 6330.52] I encourage you to stick around for that. -[6330.74 --> 6339.84] As well, if you would like to pray with someone or connect with someone, there is someone at the back, and then who will move up to the front wearing a name tag like this with a big yellow square on it. -[6340.34 --> 6343.32] They would love to connect with you for prayer as well. -[6343.38 --> 6346.86] As you go, receive then the blessing of our God. -[6349.60 --> 6352.90] May God go before you to prepare a way from you. -[6353.72 --> 6356.60] May God go behind you to protect you. -[6356.60 --> 6363.12] May God go beside you to befriend you. -[6363.58 --> 6365.54] Do not be afraid. -[6366.20 --> 6368.18] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[6368.34 --> 6370.10] Do not be afraid. -[6370.84 --> 6375.58] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[6375.58 --> 6377.22] Amen. -[6386.60 --> 6399.08] You're the light of Judah, the Lamb who was slain. -[6399.08 --> 6403.00] You ascended to heaven and evermore will reign. -[6403.00 --> 6407.10] At the end of the age when the earth you reclaim. -[6407.10 --> 6411.02] You will gather the nations before you. -[6411.02 --> 6418.32] And the eyes of all men will be fixed on the Lamb who was crucified. -[6418.32 --> 6427.56] With wisdom and mercy and justice you'll reign at your Father's side. -[6427.56 --> 6429.56] And the angels will cry. -[6429.56 --> 6438.48] Hail the Lamb who was slain for the world. -[6438.48 --> 6442.00] Rolling in power. -[6442.00 --> 6446.00] And the earth will reply. -[6446.00 --> 6450.00] You shall reign. -[6450.00 --> 6457.30] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords. -[6457.30 --> 6468.66] There's a shield in our hand and a sword at our side. -[6468.86 --> 6472.42] There's a fire in our spirits that cannot be denied. -[6472.82 --> 6476.62] As the Father has told you for these you have died. -[6476.82 --> 6480.12] For the nations who gather before you. -[6480.12 --> 6487.16] And the ears of all men need to hear of the Lamb who was crucified. -[6487.16 --> 6496.16] Who descended to hell yet was raised up to reign at his Father's side. -[6496.16 --> 6498.70] And the angels will cry. -[6499.26 --> 6502.16] Hail the Lamb. -[6504.50 --> 6506.72] Who was slain for the world. -[6507.16 --> 6509.72] Rolling in power. -[6510.12 --> 6514.60] And the earth will reply. -[6514.60 --> 6519.60] You shall reign. -[6519.60 --> 6524.42] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords. -[6524.42 --> 6526.46] And the angels will cry. -[6526.46 --> 6530.46] Hail the Lamb. -[6530.46 --> 6534.36] Who was slain for the world. -[6534.36 --> 6537.76] Rolling in power. -[6537.76 --> 6542.24] And the earth will reply. -[6542.24 --> 6547.24] You shall reign. -[6547.24 --> 6552.08] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords. -[6552.08 --> 6557.24] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords. -[6557.24 --> 6559.68] Who was slain for the Lord of all. -[6562.72 --> 6566.72] Amzus gel. -[6566.72 --> 6596.70] Thank you. -[6596.72 --> 6626.70] Thank you. -[6626.72 --> 6656.70] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - April 23, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - April 23, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f2f7252f60145a08498266337c2ea0c2ca91abc4..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - April 23, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,149 +0,0 @@ -• Invitation to write notes of encouragement -• Upcoming stories from Mexico mission trip -• Postponement of young adult event due to previous conversation -• Worship service announcements and welcome -• Call to worship from Psalm 9 -• Worship songs and prayers -• Praise and adoration for God -• Worshiping Jesus -• Acknowledging God's worthiness and uniqueness -• Asking for a deeper understanding of God's nature and heart -• Seeking to live a life surrendered to God -• Confessing sin and asking for forgiveness -• Praising the Lord's sovereignty and redemption -• Expressing gratitude for being set free from spiritual blindness -• Pleading with God to purify one's heart -• Praying for purification and holiness -• Donations requested for Turkey-Syria earthquake relief -• Update on the humanitarian crisis in Syria and Turkey -• Upcoming budget and pastor church resources offering -• Worship song with lyrics about praising God's holy name -• Inviting kids to children's worship time -• Discussing the topic of following Jesus and being a Christian -• Introducing an old-fashioned phone as an analogy for prayer -• Using a tin can phone to illustrate prayer, with different kids trying to hear Mr. Matias through it -• Explaining that prayer is like sending a message to God or Jesus -• Giving thanks to Mr. Matias for participating in the demonstration -• Saying a blessing and moving on to discuss prayer further -• The speaker leads a prayer and worship service, giving thanks for God's creation and control -• Prayers are offered for various individuals and groups, including those with health issues, mental illness, and personal struggles -• The congregation is asked to open their hearts to serve in positions of leadership within the church -• The speaker introduces a four-part series on the book of Jonah, warning that it may challenge preconceived notions about the story -• The passage discussed is Jonah 1 -• The word of the Lord comes to Jonah, son of Amite, telling him to go to Nineveh and preach against its wickedness -• Jonah runs away from the Lord and boards a ship bound for Tarshish -• A great wind on the sea causes a violent storm that threatens to break up the ship -• The sailors are afraid and ask Jonah what he has done, and why they should spare his life -• Jonah tells them to throw him overboard to calm the sea, and after they do, the storm subsides -• The men fear the Lord and offer a sacrifice to Him -• The story then transitions to how it feels for the speaker to teach classes on the Bible. -• The story of Jonah as a place of surprise and potential offense -• The historical context of Jonah's time and reign of Jeroboam II -• The Assyrian Empire's influence and expansion during this period -• The relationship between Israel, Judah, and Babylonian exile -• Geographical locations mentioned: Gath-Hefer, Damascus -• Border skirmishes between Assyria and Israel/Judah cease after the Assyrian capital is destroyed -• Assyrians face conflict with Eratu to their north -• Internal divisions within Assyrian empire lead to rebellion in major cities like Nineveh -• Relative peace and prosperity for Israel/Judah during this time due to Assyrian weakness -• Historical context may help explain why leaders and people of Nineveh are receptive to the Lord's message -• Map visual aids illustrate the geographical relationships between Assyria, Aramia, Eratu, and other empires -• Babylon is mentioned as the next empire that will rise and take over -• Discussion of a map showing the Mediterranean Sea -• Location of Joppa port and Tarshish on the map -• Significance of Tarshish as the end of the world at that time -• Comparison between Jonah's book and other minor prophets in terms of format and structure -• Observation that Jonah's story is more narrative than prophetic poetry like other minor prophets -• Reference to stories of Elijah and Elisha for comparison with Jonah's story -• The book of Jonah subverts traditional prophecy by portraying the prophet as flawed -• The story highlights the conversion of the people on the boat, who are not Israelites, and their reverence for God -• In contrast to Jonah's negative character, the king of Ninevah repents and seeks mercy from God -• The book is a "gentle parody" of traditional prophecy, challenging readers' expectations and understanding of God's relationship with the world -• The story serves to teach post-exilic Judah about God's relationship with both the world at large and his chosen people specifically. -• The book of Jonah is about God's election and how it's bigger than human expectations. -• The book challenges presumptions and preconceived ideas about God's justice, showing that it cuts both ways and excludes those thought to be included. -• The book also highlights the importance of God's mercy, which is necessary for his election and justice. -• God's justice and mercy are not contradictory, but rather two aspects of His character that work together. -• The idea of choosing between justice and mercy is a false dichotomy, as they are intertwined in God's nature and should be in human behavior. -• God's aseity (simplicity) means He cannot contain contradictions, so justice and mercy must coexist. -• Practically, this means recognizing that grace and truth are not mutually exclusive, but rather complementary aspects of God's character. -• Jesus is the embodiment of God's work in the world -• Grace and truth are perfectly revealed in union with Jesus -• Justice and mercy are hand-in-glove attributes of God's work -• Overemphasizing one over the other leads to hypocrisy -• The book of Jonah explores themes of election, justice, and mercy -• Jonah is called by God to preach in Nineveh, but initially resists -• Jonah's reluctance stems from his knowledge of God's gracious nature -• Jonah's reluctance to forgive the people of Nineveh, considering their history with his people -• Jonah separating justice from mercy and wanting revenge against the Ninevites -• Jonah's desire to decide who is worthy of mercy and forgiveness -• Jonah fleeing God's plan and presence by boarding a ship to Tarshish -• The cultural context of ancient times, where gods were believed to be tied to specific areas or regions -• Jonah runs from God and gets on a boat to escape -• The sailors are terrified as a storm comes up, but Jonah knows the storm is punishment for his disobedience -• Jonah tells the sailors to throw him overboard so they can be saved -• Some interpret Jonah's offer to be thrown into the sea as an attempt to sacrifice himself to the Canaanite god of the sea, yam. -• The sailors in the story, like Jonah, believe a storm can be placated by offering sacrifices to a specific god. -• Instead of sacrificing to "yam", the sailors cry out to the Lord (Yahweh) for deliverance. -• The word "Lord" is often translated from the Hebrew word "Yahweh", which is the covenant name of God. -• The sailors' confession, "You have done as you pleased, Lord", reflects an understanding of God's sovereignty and power. -• This confession should be attributed to Jonah, but it comes from the lips of the pagan sailors. -• The speaker discusses a passage in scripture where people are described as fearing the Lord -• The fear of the Lord is contrasted with being afraid of a storm or physical danger -• The speaker explains that to fear the Lord means to have awe and worship for God, not just a feeling of fear or dread -• The Old Testament scriptures are referenced, including Proverbs, which states that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. -• The worship and sacrifice of the sailors to Jonah, showing a deeper sense of fear and reverence -• The use of "fear" in the text to convey a sense of worshipful devotion -• The contrast between the sailors' behavior and that of Jonah, who failed to properly fear God -• The purpose of the book and its relevance to the people of Judah after their exile -• Reflections on what it means to be chosen by God and whether one can rest on past accomplishments or traditions (such as being Christian) -• Questions about the sufficiency of attending church or checking certain moral boxes in order to truly follow God. -• God's actions and presence in one's life -• The importance of genuine belief requiring conversion -• The concept of being born again, exemplified by the story of Jonah -• Comparing God's election to human expectations and desires -• Drawing parallels between biblical stories and Jesus' teachings -• Subverting expectations of who God is -• Jesus meets a Samaritan woman at a well -• Jesus welcomes and loves those considered immoral or broken -• Jesus includes everyone in the kingdom, regardless of background or status -• Expanding God's mercy to more people than initially presumed -• Challenging disciples' assumptions about who should be included in God's message -• Jesus and the disciples are surrounded by Jewish leaders who shout "crucify him" -• During Jesus' trial, a Roman centurion makes a statement about Jesus being the Son of God -• The centurion's recognition of Jesus as the Son of God is seen as a fulfillment of expectations about who should make this acknowledgment -• God's sovereign choice in choosing Jesus is discussed and contrasted with human preferences and expectations -• The discussion concludes with a reflection on how all these elements come together -• The story of Jonah -• Avoiding God's work in the world -• Pledging one's life to God and serving Him -• Fleeing or running away from God's plans -• Obedience, character, and worship of God -• Prayer and seeking guidance from God -• The power of the spirit to proclaim a message -• God's gracious and compassionate nature -• Slowness to anger and abundance in love -• Seeing a broken and contrite spirit, leading to heart transformation -• God's work in the world through the power of their word and the activity of the spirit -• Relenting from calamity and sending prophets and missionaries -• Worshiping God and being amazed by where they will be seen -• Praying for mercy and rest on God's grace -• Confessing transgressions, grief, guilt, and oppression -• Asking to be washed, made pure, and cleansed with God. -• Praying for spiritual cleansing and renewal -• Seeking guidance from God for a clear path forward -• Asking for the removal of guilt and sin -• Expressing desire to be restored and returned to God's presence -• Requesting God's salvation, joy, and love to be imparted -• Pleading for forgiveness and the ability to praise God through worship -• Prayer and worship -• Receiving prayer or praying with someone -• Worship with a yellow name tag -• Prayer cards and receiving God's blessing -• Trusting in God's protection, support, and presence -• Not being afraid and letting God's blessing come upon you -• The nature and attributes of God, described as eternal, immortal, invisible, and everlasting. -• God's existence from eternity to eternity. -• God's role in adopting those who call upon His name. -• Praise and worship directed towards God. -• Repetition of the phrase "You are God" throughout the transcript. \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - April 23, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - April 23, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b2b7902ed0e4ccdec6c1df4fe12e9bf49cd35de1..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - April 23, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3011 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 4.18] that you write a note of encouragement or thank you to them. -[4.82 --> 7.82] And sometimes you don't have a card with you or at home, -[8.02 --> 11.66] and so then you just, if you want to just get one from this basket -[11.66 --> 15.24] and write a note and put it in their mailbox or just give it to them personally. -[16.38 --> 24.86] We just all need encouragement and realize the power of just a little note of encouragement. -[24.86 --> 29.32] So just kind of remember that, okay, the power of a note. Thanks. -[30.00 --> 34.80] Thank you, Wendy. -[37.32 --> 44.08] Following our worship this morning, we are also inviting you to a time -[44.08 --> 48.80] where we're going to hear some stories from those who went on the Mexico mission trip. -[49.50 --> 54.76] And so for about an hour after service, we'll have coffee and fellowship together, -[54.76 --> 57.64] and then some of us will move back into here. -[57.64 --> 61.06] There's buns and other goodies and the like to share. -[61.26 --> 65.22] As we hear from the team that went to Mexico, they tell us about what they've seen, -[65.56 --> 67.40] and we can interact with them a little bit. -[67.52 --> 70.28] And so please, you saw the invitation for that. -[70.34 --> 72.44] If you get the midweek memo and the e-bulletin, -[72.96 --> 77.12] please stick around and hang out for that conversation as well. -[77.12 --> 83.34] Lastly, Josh isn't here, but the young adult event that was scheduled for this evening -[83.34 --> 89.70] is postponed to next week because of the raising kids in a hypersexualized culture conversation. -[90.22 --> 94.88] If you have any questions about that, you can see Instagram or talk to Josh, and he'll address it. -[95.66 --> 97.24] I think that's all the announcements. -[97.24 --> 102.16] Would you stand, and we can be welcomed in God's presence together. -[106.24 --> 110.30] We gather together in this place because God is here. -[110.72 --> 113.22] He meets us here, welcomes us into his presence, -[113.34 --> 116.72] and we mark that by receiving the greeting of God. -[116.80 --> 120.14] And so I invite you to receive the greeting of God. -[120.14 --> 126.14] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, -[126.22 --> 129.00] from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, -[129.44 --> 131.88] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[133.12 --> 133.42] Amen. -[134.20 --> 136.44] I invite you to turn to those around you, -[136.56 --> 139.60] welcome them into worship past the peace of Christ this morning. -[141.86 --> 143.12] Peace of Christ. Good morning. -[150.14 --> 180.12] We wanted to just share for those that are joining us, -[180.12 --> 181.74] on our live stream this morning. -[182.18 --> 185.56] Unfortunately, we won't have lyrics available to you, -[185.78 --> 189.16] but please join us when you can in worship this morning. -[191.36 --> 192.26] Good morning. -[192.80 --> 195.70] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 9. -[196.54 --> 199.26] I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart. -[199.68 --> 202.86] I will recount all of your wonderful deeds. -[203.38 --> 205.66] I will be glad and exult in you. -[206.08 --> 209.16] I will sing praise to your name, O Most High. -[209.16 --> 211.16] Let's worship together. -[211.16 --> 211.18] Let's worship together. -[211.18 --> 213.18] Almighty, Most Holy God. -[213.18 --> 215.18] Almighty, Most Holy God. -[215.18 --> 218.18] Almighty, Most Holy God. -[218.18 --> 224.18] Almighty, Most Holy God. -[224.18 --> 228.18] Faithful through the ages. -[228.18 --> 234.18] Almighty, Most Holy Lord. -[234.18 --> 236.18] Glorious, Most Holy God. -[236.18 --> 239.18] Glorious, Almighty God. -[239.18 --> 252.34] The beasts of the field, the birds of the air, are silent to call out your name. -[252.34 --> 254.34] The earth has no voice. -[254.34 --> 255.34] The earth has no voice. -[255.34 --> 257.34] And I have no choice. -[257.34 --> 261.34] But to magnify God unashamed. -[261.34 --> 266.34] Let the rocks be kept silent for one more day. -[266.34 --> 268.34] Let the whole world sing out. -[268.34 --> 271.34] Let the people sing. -[271.34 --> 281.34] Lord, The churn that I have remembered. -[281.34 --> 294.40] Through the ages, almighty, most holy Lord, glorious, almighty God. -[296.40 --> 306.48] Well, time marches on, with the innocence gone, and the darkness has covered the earth. -[306.48 --> 315.06] But the Spirit still dwells, He speaks it as well, and the hopeless still offer new birth. -[316.32 --> 320.94] He will break the leash of death, it will have no sting. -[321.24 --> 327.44] Let the prisoner go free, join the dance and sing. -[327.44 --> 336.90] Almighty, most holy God, faithful through the ages. -[337.82 --> 347.66] Almighty, most holy Lord, glorious, almighty God. -[357.44 --> 387.42] Thank you. -[387.44 --> 395.22] Worthy of every song we could ever sing. -[396.36 --> 401.44] Worthy of all the praise we could ever bring. -[403.26 --> 407.50] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe. -[407.72 --> 409.44] We live for you. -[409.44 --> 421.90] Jesus, the name above every other name. -[421.90 --> 428.06] Jesus, the only one who could ever sing. -[430.24 --> 434.32] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe. -[434.32 --> 436.36] We live for you. -[437.68 --> 440.18] We live for you. -[440.18 --> 446.96] Holy, there is no one like you. -[446.96 --> 450.42] There is none beside you. -[450.96 --> 455.16] Open up my eyes in wonder. -[455.16 --> 459.00] And show me who you are. -[459.20 --> 462.40] And fill me with your heart. -[462.40 --> 469.40] And lead me in your love to those around me. -[469.40 --> 470.40] Amen. -[470.40 --> 486.82] Jesus, the name above every other name. -[486.82 --> 493.32] Jesus, the only one who could ever sing. -[493.32 --> 494.32] Jesus, the only one who could ever sing. -[494.32 --> 495.32] Amen. -[495.32 --> 496.32] Jesus, the only one who could ever sing. -[496.32 --> 497.32] Jesus, the only one who could ever sing. -[497.32 --> 500.32] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe. -[500.32 --> 502.32] We live for you. -[502.32 --> 503.32] We live for you. -[503.32 --> 504.32] We live for you. -[504.32 --> 506.32] We live for you. -[506.32 --> 509.32] Holy, there is no one like you. -[509.32 --> 513.42] Holy, there is no one like you. -[513.42 --> 516.78] There is none beside you. -[516.78 --> 521.42] Open up my eyes in wonder. -[521.96 --> 525.14] And show me who you are. -[525.32 --> 528.52] And fill me with your heart. -[528.76 --> 535.46] And lead me in your love to those around me. -[539.32 --> 567.88] I will build my life upon your love. -[567.88 --> 573.04] It is a firm foundation. -[573.04 --> 580.66] I will put my trust in you alone. -[580.66 --> 585.86] And I will not be shaken. -[585.86 --> 593.40] I will build my life upon your love. -[593.40 --> 598.56] It is a firm foundation. -[598.56 --> 606.18] I will put my trust in you alone. -[606.18 --> 611.40] And I will not be shaken. -[611.40 --> 616.62] Holy, there is no one like you. -[616.62 --> 620.18] There is none beside you. -[620.18 --> 625.34] Open up my eyes in wonder. -[625.34 --> 629.08] And show me who you are. -[629.08 --> 632.60] And fill me with your heart. -[632.60 --> 641.02] And lead me in your love to those around me. -[641.02 --> 648.30] Please join me in prayer. -[650.30 --> 656.46] Dear Father in heaven, we come with humble hearts this morning, confessing that we continue -[656.46 --> 657.06] to sin. -[657.90 --> 660.74] That your ways haven't always been our ways. -[661.68 --> 664.90] Forgive us when we haven't always valued what you value. -[664.90 --> 670.22] For living selfish lives that aren't completely surrendered to you. -[671.28 --> 674.14] Lord, forgive our shallow pursuits of this world. -[674.46 --> 679.34] And change our hearts so that we can pursue abundant life with you. -[680.16 --> 685.40] For you are the one that can fill the deepest places of our hearts and our minds. -[685.40 --> 687.38] In Jesus' name we pray. -[687.92 --> 688.22] Amen. -[690.08 --> 693.84] In Zephaniah 3, we read these words of assurance. -[694.56 --> 697.70] Be glad and rejoice with all your heart. -[698.50 --> 700.70] The Lord has taken away your punishment. -[701.42 --> 703.20] He has turned back your enemy. -[704.00 --> 705.68] The Lord is with you. -[706.44 --> 708.76] Never again will you fear any harm. -[709.26 --> 711.26] The Lord your God is with you. -[711.56 --> 713.54] The mighty warrior who saves. -[713.54 --> 716.56] He will take great delight in you. -[717.40 --> 724.40] In his love, he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing. -[724.40 --> 746.04] All these pieces broken and scattered. -[746.04 --> 752.04] In mercy gathered, mended and whole. -[753.68 --> 758.62] Empty handed, but not forsaken. -[759.62 --> 761.90] I've been set free. -[762.90 --> 765.04] I've been set free. -[766.90 --> 772.96] Amazing grace, how sweet the sound. -[772.96 --> 777.82] That saved a wretch like me. -[778.82 --> 785.78] I once was lost, but now I am found. -[786.14 --> 789.96] Was blind, but now I see. -[789.96 --> 795.82] I can see you now. -[795.82 --> 803.46] I can see the love in your eyes. -[803.82 --> 808.38] Laying yourself down. -[809.82 --> 816.12] Raising up the broken to life. -[816.12 --> 831.30] You take our failure. -[831.30 --> 834.40] You take our weakness. -[834.40 --> 840.68] You set your treasure in jars of clay. -[840.68 --> 844.60] So take this heart, Lord. -[844.60 --> 847.32] I'll be your vessel. -[847.32 --> 850.90] The world you see. -[851.12 --> 854.78] Your life in me. -[854.78 --> 858.02] Amazing grace. -[858.38 --> 861.18] How sweet the sound. -[861.58 --> 865.92] That saved a wretch like me. -[865.92 --> 873.62] I once was lost, but now I am found. -[873.62 --> 877.84] Was blind, but now I see. -[877.84 --> 881.78] Oh, I can see you now. -[881.78 --> 886.48] I can see you now. -[886.48 --> 890.98] I can see the love in your eyes. -[890.98 --> 894.50] Laying yourself down. -[894.50 --> 896.50] Laying yourself down. -[897.24 --> 902.92] Raising up the broken to life. -[902.92 --> 931.38] Amazing grace. -[931.38 --> 934.38] How sweet the sound. -[934.38 --> 934.40] How sweet the sound. -[934.40 --> 939.08] That saved a wretch like me. -[940.08 --> 946.28] I once was lost, but now I am found. -[946.28 --> 950.78] Was blind, but now I see. -[951.20 --> 954.30] Oh, I can see you now. -[954.30 --> 961.26] I can see the love in your eyes. -[961.26 --> 967.82] Laying yourself down. -[967.82 --> 975.64] Raising up the broken to life -[975.64 --> 983.22] Raising grace, how sweet the sound -[983.22 --> 988.28] Has saved a wretch like me -[997.82 --> 1004.82] more pobre, bowing away -[1004.82 --> 1006.82] Amen. -[1034.82 --> 1036.82] Amen. -[1036.82 --> 1038.82] Amen. -[1056.82 --> 1060.82] Purify my heart. -[1060.82 --> 1068.82] Let me be as gold and precious silver. -[1068.82 --> 1072.82] Purify my heart. -[1072.82 --> 1076.82] Let me be as gold, -[1076.82 --> 1080.82] pure gold. -[1080.82 --> 1084.82] Refiner's power. -[1084.82 --> 1090.82] My heart's one desire -[1090.82 --> 1094.82] is to be -[1094.82 --> 1096.82] holy. -[1096.82 --> 1100.82] Set apart -[1100.82 --> 1102.82] for you, Lord. -[1102.82 --> 1106.82] I choose to be -[1106.82 --> 1108.82] holy. -[1108.82 --> 1110.82] Set apart -[1110.82 --> 1112.82] for you, -[1112.82 --> 1114.82] my Master. -[1114.82 --> 1116.82] Ready to do -[1116.82 --> 1118.82] your will. -[1124.82 --> 1126.82] Purify my heart. -[1126.82 --> 1128.82] Cleanse me from within -[1128.82 --> 1132.82] and make me holy. -[1132.82 --> 1134.82] Purify my heart. -[1134.82 --> 1136.82] Cleanse me from my sin. -[1136.82 --> 1138.82] And make me holy. -[1138.82 --> 1140.82] Purify my heart. -[1140.82 --> 1142.82] Cleanse me from my sin. -[1142.82 --> 1144.82] Deep within -[1144.82 --> 1146.82] deep within -[1146.82 --> 1148.82] deep within -[1148.82 --> 1150.82] brief -[1150.82 --> 1152.82] finest fire. -[1152.82 --> 1156.82] My heart's one desire -[1156.82 --> 1160.82] is to be -[1160.82 --> 1162.82] holy. -[1162.82 --> 1164.82] Set apart -[1164.82 --> 1166.82] for you, Lord. -[1166.82 --> 1168.82] Set apart -[1168.82 --> 1170.82] for you, Lord. -[1170.82 --> 1172.82] I choose to be -[1172.82 --> 1174.82] holy. -[1174.82 --> 1176.82] Set apart -[1176.82 --> 1178.82] for you, -[1178.82 --> 1180.82] my Master. -[1180.82 --> 1182.82] Set apart for you, -[1182.82 --> 1184.82] my Master. -[1184.82 --> 1186.82] Ready to do your will. -[1192.82 --> 1194.82] You may have a seat. -[1194.82 --> 1196.82] Yukim -[1216.82 --> 1217.82] Imel -[1217.82 --> 1219.98] Imel -[1219.98 --> 1225.46] the giving of our gifts for the budget, which covers the administration of the church and -[1225.46 --> 1232.92] its ministries, and the special offering today, which is world-renew Turkey-Syria earthquake. -[1234.06 --> 1242.24] In the early morning hours of February 6th this year, a powerful 7.8 earthquake rocked -[1242.24 --> 1249.38] southeastern Turkey and Syria, killing thousands of people as they slept, injuring tens of -[1249.38 --> 1255.48] thousands more, and reducing five-story buildings to piles of rubble. A few hours later, another -[1255.48 --> 1261.56] earthquake with a magnitude of 7.5 hit the region, causing even more heartbreak and damage. -[1262.64 --> 1269.24] One of the hardest-hit regions in Syria is in the north of the country near Aleppo, where millions -[1269.24 --> 1275.70] have already been enduring the hardships of the ongoing civil war, including families in refugee -[1275.70 --> 1282.70] camps on both sides of the Syria-Turkey border. At least 50,000 deaths and over 100,000 injuries -[1286.70 --> 1293.70] were reported in Turkey, and at least 15.73 million people and 4 million buildings were affected. -[1294.70 --> 1299.70] 2 million residents were evacuated to other provinces, and 2.7 million people are homeless. Many roads -[1299.70 --> 1322.70] and highways have been severely damaged, making rescue efforts even more difficult. In Syria, where the Syrian rescue teams and citizens of the region say this disaster has created conditions not seen at any point during the 12 years of war. -[1322.70 --> 1339.70] At least 5.3 million people in northern Syria are homeless, and another 10.9 million people, which is nearly half the Syrian population, were affected. -[1339.70 --> 1354.70] World Renew is requesting donations and prayers to help people suffering from the earthquake, and also for the World Renew staff and the partners that they work with in the region. -[1354.70 --> 1359.70] lin' -[1359.70 --> 1361.70] Whoever has a bountiful eye will be blessed, for he shares his bread with the poor. -[1361.70 --> 1363.70] Proverbs 22, verse 9. -[1364.70 --> 1369.70] Next week's offering is for the budget and pastor church resources. -[1369.70 --> 1399.68] Thank you. -[1399.70 --> 1415.10] Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, worship his holy name. -[1415.10 --> 1427.76] Sing like never before, O my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[1429.70 --> 1437.14] The sun comes up, it's a new day dawning. -[1437.70 --> 1442.64] It's time to sing your song again. -[1443.24 --> 1449.70] Whatever may pass and whatever lies before me, -[1449.70 --> 1457.70] let me be singing when the evening comes. -[1457.70 --> 1471.70] Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, worship his holy name. -[1471.70 --> 1484.14] Sing like never before, O my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[1484.14 --> 1494.42] You're rich in love and you're slow to anger. -[1495.08 --> 1500.00] Your name is great and your heart is kind. -[1500.00 --> 1506.48] For all your goodness I will keep on singing. -[1508.00 --> 1514.96] Ten thousand reasons for my heart to find. -[1514.96 --> 1529.16] Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, worship his holy name. -[1529.16 --> 1540.16] Sing like never before, O my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[1540.16 --> 1551.16] And on that day when my strength is failing, -[1551.16 --> 1557.22] The end draws near and my time has come. -[1557.22 --> 1564.16] Still my soul will sing your praise unending. -[1564.16 --> 1571.16] Ten thousand years and then forevermore. -[1571.16 --> 1586.16] Bless the Lord, O my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[1586.16 --> 1598.16] Sing like never before, O my soul, O my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[1598.16 --> 1611.16] Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, worship his holy name. -[1611.16 --> 1624.16] Sing like never before, O my soul, O my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[1624.16 --> 1630.16] I'll worship your holy name. -[1630.16 --> 1636.16] Lord, I'll worship your holy name. -[1636.16 --> 1638.16] Amen. -[1641.16 --> 1650.16] Good morning. -[1650.16 --> 1653.16] My name is Mr. Mike and I'd like to invite all the kids up. -[1653.16 --> 1657.16] Kids of really any age, but those of us going off to children's worship time -[1657.16 --> 1661.16] are going to be ages three to grade four. -[1661.16 --> 1666.16] Oh boy, you guys get so close. -[1666.16 --> 1667.16] Hi, guys. -[1667.16 --> 1669.16] How are you guys? -[1669.16 --> 1670.16] You're good. -[1670.16 --> 1671.16] You're good. -[1671.16 --> 1672.16] You're good. -[1672.16 --> 1673.16] Okay. -[1673.16 --> 1677.16] Well, in children's worship time, we started a new topic. -[1677.16 --> 1679.16] Do you guys know what it is? -[1679.16 --> 1680.16] I know. -[1680.16 --> 1681.16] It's a tricky question. -[1681.16 --> 1683.16] We started the basics, it's called. -[1683.16 --> 1689.16] So we've had now celebrated Easter and Jesus has gone back up to heaven. -[1689.16 --> 1691.16] And we have this big story we've been learning about. -[1691.16 --> 1698.16] And now we're going, what are the basics of what does it mean to follow Jesus and to be a Christian? -[1698.16 --> 1699.16] Right? -[1699.16 --> 1700.16] That's what a Christian is. -[1700.16 --> 1701.16] Someone who follows Christ. -[1701.16 --> 1706.16] So today's topic, I have a special illustration here that Mr. Matias is going to help me out with. -[1706.16 --> 1711.16] We're going to phone him up on this here, fan-dangled, fancy telephone. -[1711.16 --> 1713.16] Does this look like a phone? -[1713.16 --> 1716.16] What does a phone look like to you guys? -[1716.16 --> 1720.16] It's probably like something like this one in my pocket, this flat thing. -[1720.16 --> 1725.16] Did you know back in the olden days, phones used to have to have cords on them? -[1725.16 --> 1730.16] Not quite like this, but not too different. -[1730.16 --> 1733.16] Mr. Matias is going to go down the aisle. -[1733.16 --> 1735.16] We'll pick, maybe go that one. -[1735.16 --> 1739.16] And he is, we're going to phone him on our here fancy phone. -[1739.16 --> 1741.16] And we're going to ask him about today's topic. -[1741.16 --> 1744.16] I maybe was a bit overzealous with the string. -[1744.16 --> 1745.16] Okay. -[1749.16 --> 1751.16] Okay, I'm going to need you guys to come and help me over here. -[1751.16 --> 1754.16] If we, this is how this trick works. -[1754.16 --> 1758.16] He's way over there and that guy, he can barely talk. -[1758.16 --> 1759.16] He's so quiet. -[1759.16 --> 1762.16] So he is going to, we're going to call him up on our little telephone here, -[1762.16 --> 1767.16] our tin can phone and ask him about today's topic. -[1767.16 --> 1769.16] Go a little further back. -[1772.16 --> 1775.16] Hey, Mr. Matias, what's our topic for today? -[1777.16 --> 1780.16] Oh, I can hear him in here. -[1780.16 --> 1782.16] Do you guys want to hear him through the funny phone? -[1782.16 --> 1785.16] Does anybody know what he's saying? -[1785.16 --> 1788.16] Sounds like he's underwater, but here, let's see. -[1788.16 --> 1789.16] Can you hear him? -[1789.16 --> 1791.16] Christa, I'll get my finger out of the way. -[1794.16 --> 1795.16] Did you hear him? -[1795.16 --> 1796.16] No? -[1796.16 --> 1798.16] How about, we'll try one more person. -[1798.16 --> 1799.16] I did kind of hear him. -[1799.16 --> 1800.16] It kind of works. -[1800.16 --> 1801.16] Let's see if Haley, she's right in front here. -[1801.16 --> 1806.16] Oh, what did he say? -[1806.16 --> 1808.16] It's hard to see. -[1808.16 --> 1809.16] I know, it's a little bit muffled. -[1809.16 --> 1810.16] We'll try one more person. -[1810.16 --> 1813.16] Maybe Jade has a good, oh, do you want to give it a shot? -[1813.16 --> 1815.16] Come on up. -[1815.16 --> 1816.16] Isn't it weird? -[1816.16 --> 1818.16] Phones with wires. -[1818.16 --> 1824.16] What topic did he say we're doing today? -[1824.16 --> 1828.16] No, I think he said today's topic is prayer. -[1828.16 --> 1836.16] And sometimes, prayer is kind of like sending up a phone call to God, right? -[1836.16 --> 1838.16] Or to Jesus or the Holy Spirit. -[1838.16 --> 1840.16] They're all part of God. -[1840.16 --> 1844.16] So, but it's a little less tricky than using a funny tin can phone, I think. -[1844.16 --> 1846.16] So, we're going to talk more about that in children's worship time. -[1846.16 --> 1850.16] Thanks, Mr. Matias, for dealing with our phone. -[1850.16 --> 1855.16] So, let's do the blessing and then we'll go off to the big room and we'll talk some more about prayer. -[1855.16 --> 1856.16] Okay? -[1856.16 --> 1858.16] Let's stand together with the church. -[1858.16 --> 1862.16] All right. -[1862.16 --> 1866.16] All right. -[1866.16 --> 1869.16] The Lord be with you. -[1869.16 --> 1870.16] And also with you. -[1870.16 --> 1871.16] All right. See you in children's worship time. -[1892.16 --> 1893.16] Thank you. -[1893.16 --> 1894.16] Thank you. -[1894.16 --> 1896.16] Thank you. -[1896.16 --> 1898.16] Thank you. -[1898.16 --> 1899.16] Thank you. -[1899.16 --> 1903.16] My name is John and I'm one of the elders in the church here. -[1903.16 --> 1907.16] I would like to give a couple of notes before we pray. -[1907.16 --> 1914.16] Fred Kuntz, mom, Nell Kuntz fell and broke her hip yesterday and has been surgery today. -[1914.16 --> 1916.16] So, we need to keep hearing our prayers. -[1916.16 --> 1917.16] Thank you. -[1917.16 --> 1918.16] Thank you, sir. -[1918.16 --> 1920.16] Also, Linda Rook's dad, Bert Kloss. -[1920.16 --> 1928.16] There will be a funeral for him on Tuesday at 1 p.m. at the Langley at Canadian Reformed Church. -[1928.16 --> 1932.16] So, we go to our God in prayer. -[1932.16 --> 1936.16] Oh, Lord God, creator of the world. -[1936.16 --> 1939.72] we give you the praise and honor and glory that is due your name. -[1941.12 --> 1942.46] You have created everything. -[1942.84 --> 1944.32] You have held everything in your hand. -[1944.90 --> 1946.62] And we see your hand in creation. -[1946.86 --> 1953.36] We see spring happening, sunshine, rain, plants coming out of the ground. -[1953.64 --> 1955.56] Lord, we know that you are in control of everything. -[1957.10 --> 1958.56] Lord, we come as broken people. -[1959.84 --> 1964.52] We come before you and we confess that we have not always been true to you. -[1964.52 --> 1968.78] Lord, we ask your blessing as we spend this time in worship. -[1969.54 --> 1973.54] And we may give you the praise and honor and glory that is your name. -[1976.60 --> 1978.52] Lord, we are a busy church. -[1978.80 --> 1982.84] We have lots of activities and missions that are working. -[1983.48 --> 1987.04] Lord, we pray a blessing on the children's worship time that is happening right now. -[1987.34 --> 1992.78] We're thankful for Gems and Cadets Ministries, for Coffee Break Youth Ministries. -[1992.78 --> 1998.22] Lord, we're thankful that we have volunteers that are able to help and give of their time -[1998.22 --> 2001.10] and their tasks and their talents to serve you. -[2002.90 --> 2008.56] Lord, we know that there are many people who are suffering and going through difficult times. -[2010.02 --> 2015.04] Lord, we have people who are dealing with cancer and looking forward to healing through treatment. -[2015.04 --> 2017.00] Lord, we pray for Cy Visser. -[2018.48 --> 2021.98] We also pray for John Koning, who is a former member of our congregation, -[2022.14 --> 2027.90] is also dealing with melanoma and looking forward to effective treatment for him. -[2029.12 --> 2036.48] Lord, we pray for those that are suffering from mental illness or challenges of living on a daily basis. -[2036.48 --> 2040.98] Lord, there's people in our congregation who suffer silently. -[2041.26 --> 2045.56] We don't know who they are, but we ask your blessing on those who are going through that difficult time. -[2047.58 --> 2054.28] Lord, we pray especially for Fred Kunzman, Nell, as she is undergoing surgery. -[2054.64 --> 2059.48] Lord, that the surgeons may be able to repair her hip, -[2059.48 --> 2064.26] that she may be able to be free from the pain and difficulties she has to experience. -[2066.50 --> 2072.34] Lord, we also pray for Lady Rose Vita, who has been coming to our church recently, -[2072.94 --> 2075.72] as she is also in poor health. -[2076.00 --> 2077.32] We pray for healing for her. -[2078.58 --> 2082.44] Lord, she is a new Christian coming to believe in you, -[2082.54 --> 2085.50] and we pray that her faith may be strengthened through this time. -[2085.50 --> 2092.90] Lord, we pray for our church council. -[2093.20 --> 2096.58] Lord, as we are having nominations at this time, -[2097.18 --> 2099.66] Lord, the nominations are supposed to be closing today. -[2100.40 --> 2103.32] We're asking members of the congregation to open up their hearts -[2103.32 --> 2108.08] to be willing to serve in the positions that are open at this time. -[2109.40 --> 2114.38] For admin elders and deacons, Lord, we pray that that may be -[2114.38 --> 2118.78] something that members of our congregation are willing to take on. -[2121.52 --> 2123.90] Lord, we pray your blessing on the preaching of your word today. -[2124.22 --> 2127.12] We're thankful that Chris is able to bring your word, -[2127.94 --> 2132.66] that he may be able to bless us with the words that you have given him to speak to us, -[2133.36 --> 2134.74] that we may open our hearts, -[2135.34 --> 2137.26] we may be able to listen to those words -[2137.26 --> 2141.92] and take him in our daily activities in this coming week. -[2146.12 --> 2147.58] Lord, we pray for it, -[2149.24 --> 2153.88] that we may be effective witnesses as we go out in this coming week -[2153.88 --> 2155.54] in our jobs and our work. -[2156.34 --> 2158.46] Lord, wherever we are, whatever we're going, -[2158.78 --> 2160.72] that we may truly serve you. -[2160.72 --> 2165.40] As in the words of Psalm 73, -[2166.28 --> 2168.56] that we may desire nothing but you, God, -[2169.18 --> 2172.28] in our weakness, you will be our strength forever. -[2173.88 --> 2176.14] As for me, it is good to be near God. -[2176.80 --> 2178.98] I will make the sovereign Lord my refuge. -[2179.72 --> 2181.52] I will tell of all your deeds. -[2181.52 --> 2185.14] May we indeed go out this week, -[2186.76 --> 2188.46] strengthened to serve him, -[2189.16 --> 2193.82] and be bold to let others know of God's greatness for us. -[2195.20 --> 2197.72] We pray this all in the name of Jesus Christ, -[2197.82 --> 2200.18] who gave his life for us on the cross. -[2200.94 --> 2201.26] Amen. -[2211.52 --> 2228.04] As you can see on the screen behind me this morning, -[2228.04 --> 2237.66] we are going to start what will be a quick four-part series -[2237.66 --> 2239.68] in the book of Jonah. -[2239.68 --> 2247.28] Jonah is one of the so-called minor prophets. -[2248.42 --> 2253.28] They're called minor prophets because their writings are shorter, -[2253.44 --> 2255.96] not because their work was less significant. -[2258.34 --> 2260.84] And this morning, we're going to start in Jonah 1. -[2261.60 --> 2264.22] But what I would like to say before we read that together -[2264.22 --> 2269.06] is that especially if you've grown up in the church, -[2269.68 --> 2273.58] especially if you grew up with things like veggie tales -[2273.58 --> 2276.90] or children's Bibles or that kind of thing, -[2277.30 --> 2279.56] you're going to come into the story of Jonah -[2279.56 --> 2282.64] with all sorts of expectations and preconceived notions -[2282.64 --> 2284.36] about what happens and what it's about. -[2286.04 --> 2289.06] I think you will be surprised -[2289.06 --> 2292.96] because our children's Bible version of the story of Jonah -[2292.96 --> 2296.92] isn't actually what's going on. -[2297.92 --> 2299.54] So I whet your appetite with that. -[2300.04 --> 2302.38] We'll start with Jonah 1 together. -[2303.26 --> 2304.92] Is it on the screen with our text? -[2305.02 --> 2305.30] Excellent. -[2305.80 --> 2306.82] So it will be on the screen. -[2307.08 --> 2309.86] As always, I encourage you to have a Bible in front of you -[2309.86 --> 2312.44] because we will refer back throughout. -[2312.44 --> 2317.48] Jonah 1. -[2319.34 --> 2323.42] The word of the Lord came to Jonah, son of Amite. -[2324.34 --> 2328.36] Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it -[2328.36 --> 2331.18] because its wickedness has come up before me. -[2332.34 --> 2336.02] But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish. -[2336.66 --> 2338.40] He went down to Joppa, -[2338.80 --> 2341.56] where he found a ship bound for that port. -[2341.56 --> 2343.76] After paying the fare, -[2343.90 --> 2348.26] he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord. -[2349.82 --> 2352.88] Then the Lord sent a great wind on the sea -[2352.88 --> 2355.32] and such a violent storm arose -[2355.32 --> 2357.60] that the ship threatened to break up. -[2358.58 --> 2360.16] All the sailors were afraid -[2360.16 --> 2363.02] and each cried out to his own God. -[2363.86 --> 2367.88] And they threw the cargo into the sea to lighten the ship. -[2367.88 --> 2372.56] But Jonah had gone below deck, -[2373.08 --> 2376.04] where he lay down and fell into a deep sleep. -[2376.82 --> 2379.24] The captain went to him and said, -[2379.60 --> 2380.58] How can you sleep? -[2380.74 --> 2382.96] Get up and call on your God. -[2383.38 --> 2385.28] Maybe he will take notice of us -[2385.28 --> 2386.76] so that we will not perish. -[2386.76 --> 2390.56] Then the sailors said to each other, -[2391.10 --> 2393.78] Come, let us cast lots out -[2393.78 --> 2397.10] to find out who is responsible for this calamity. -[2398.48 --> 2402.88] They cast lots and the lot fell on Jonah. -[2403.92 --> 2405.18] So they asked him, -[2405.72 --> 2409.86] Tell us, who is responsible for making all this trouble for us? -[2409.86 --> 2411.76] What kind of work do you do? -[2411.90 --> 2413.00] Where do you come from? -[2413.08 --> 2413.90] What is your country? -[2414.28 --> 2415.54] From what people are you? -[2416.80 --> 2417.74] And he answered, -[2418.70 --> 2419.64] I am a Hebrew. -[2420.46 --> 2422.78] I worship the Lord, the God of heaven, -[2422.84 --> 2425.04] who made the sea and the dry land. -[2426.26 --> 2427.74] This terrified them, -[2427.80 --> 2428.34] and they asked, -[2428.56 --> 2429.46] What have you done? -[2430.24 --> 2432.44] They knew he was running away from the Lord -[2432.44 --> 2434.26] because he had already told them so. -[2435.02 --> 2437.12] The sea was getting rougher and rougher, -[2437.32 --> 2438.14] and so they asked him, -[2438.14 --> 2439.64] What should we do to you -[2439.64 --> 2441.74] to make the sea calm down for us? -[2442.76 --> 2445.74] Pick me up and throw me into the sea, -[2445.88 --> 2446.52] he replied, -[2446.86 --> 2448.22] and it will become calm. -[2449.00 --> 2450.72] I know that it is my fault -[2450.72 --> 2453.04] that this great storm has come upon you. -[2454.70 --> 2457.72] Instead, the men did their best -[2457.72 --> 2460.10] to row back to land, -[2460.78 --> 2461.70] but they could not, -[2462.20 --> 2464.68] for the sea grew even wilder than before. -[2464.68 --> 2468.38] Then they cried out to the Lord, -[2468.84 --> 2469.78] Please, Lord, -[2470.02 --> 2472.86] do not let us die for taking this man's life. -[2473.14 --> 2474.38] Do not hold us accountable -[2474.38 --> 2475.82] for killing an innocent man, -[2475.92 --> 2477.12] for you, Lord, -[2477.24 --> 2479.78] have done as you pleased. -[2481.16 --> 2482.40] Then they took Jonah -[2482.40 --> 2484.04] and threw him overboard, -[2484.64 --> 2486.66] and the raging sea grew calm. -[2487.70 --> 2488.30] And at this, -[2488.44 --> 2490.68] the men greatly feared the Lord, -[2490.68 --> 2493.02] and they offered a sacrifice to the Lord -[2493.02 --> 2494.64] and made vows to him. -[2496.34 --> 2498.56] Now the Lord provided a huge fish -[2498.56 --> 2499.80] to swallow Jonah, -[2500.08 --> 2502.38] and Jonah was in the belly of the fish -[2502.38 --> 2504.96] three days and three nights. -[2506.36 --> 2507.80] This is the word of the Lord. -[2507.80 --> 2518.54] One of the, -[2519.70 --> 2525.04] what I consider to be the great joys -[2525.04 --> 2527.76] of the work that I get to do as pastor -[2527.76 --> 2532.92] is teaching classes on the Bible -[2532.92 --> 2536.30] or discipling people one-on-one -[2536.30 --> 2540.22] and helping them in their relationship to God. -[2542.00 --> 2544.80] And one of the reasons I love that so much -[2544.80 --> 2547.64] is because as we dig into the Bible, -[2548.20 --> 2549.84] invariably, it seems, -[2550.22 --> 2552.62] we come to a point or a conversation -[2552.62 --> 2553.64] or a question, -[2554.20 --> 2557.14] and it's like a light bulb goes off -[2557.14 --> 2559.28] or a connection is made, right, -[2559.34 --> 2560.24] where it's something that people -[2560.24 --> 2561.30] hadn't seen before, -[2561.30 --> 2563.04] and they're like, wow, -[2563.36 --> 2564.64] that's really neat. -[2565.18 --> 2567.14] That moment of surprise, -[2567.78 --> 2568.78] if you're a teacher, -[2569.00 --> 2570.84] you probably know what I'm talking about, right, -[2570.88 --> 2571.68] where it clicks, -[2572.08 --> 2573.34] and you see it in your student -[2573.34 --> 2575.00] and the joy on their face of it -[2575.00 --> 2576.60] kind of all coming together, -[2577.08 --> 2579.00] that's a beautiful thing. -[2579.50 --> 2581.56] And I love that. -[2583.02 --> 2584.60] The story of Jonah -[2584.60 --> 2586.62] is one of those places -[2586.62 --> 2590.06] that I think might be full of surprise -[2590.06 --> 2591.40] for us. -[2593.10 --> 2594.68] What I'm aware of, -[2595.10 --> 2596.80] especially in Jonah 1, -[2597.26 --> 2599.00] and then maybe next week, too, -[2599.10 --> 2600.02] in Jonah 2, -[2600.72 --> 2603.72] is sometimes that surprise -[2603.72 --> 2606.54] comes and we're actually -[2606.54 --> 2608.78] upset by it. -[2608.78 --> 2610.84] we find it -[2610.84 --> 2612.12] offensive -[2612.12 --> 2614.04] because it doesn't fit -[2614.04 --> 2615.48] our frame of reference -[2615.48 --> 2616.84] or our understanding, -[2617.06 --> 2617.98] and that might actually -[2617.98 --> 2618.90] be what happens -[2618.90 --> 2620.56] as we look into -[2620.56 --> 2621.48] Jonah -[2621.48 --> 2622.66] and Jonah 1, -[2622.78 --> 2623.22] particularly, -[2623.62 --> 2624.12] this morning. -[2626.34 --> 2627.76] Now, to help us -[2627.76 --> 2628.94] know -[2628.94 --> 2630.46] when this story -[2630.46 --> 2631.56] takes place, -[2632.34 --> 2634.44] we could look at -[2634.44 --> 2635.54] the book of -[2635.54 --> 2636.66] 2 Kings. -[2636.66 --> 2638.74] Now, the books -[2638.74 --> 2640.38] of 1 and 2 Kings -[2640.38 --> 2641.56] were written -[2641.56 --> 2642.34] to record -[2642.34 --> 2643.40] the history -[2643.40 --> 2644.60] of the kings -[2644.60 --> 2646.90] that led Israel -[2646.90 --> 2647.66] and Judah -[2647.66 --> 2649.82] into Babylonian exile -[2649.82 --> 2651.56] in the 6th -[2651.56 --> 2652.84] and late 5th century. -[2653.88 --> 2654.80] And so it explains -[2654.80 --> 2655.82] what happened -[2655.82 --> 2656.72] and the work -[2656.72 --> 2657.54] of the prophets -[2657.54 --> 2659.46] to guide Israel -[2659.46 --> 2660.70] back to God. -[2661.44 --> 2662.76] And when they refused, -[2663.18 --> 2664.16] they ended up -[2664.16 --> 2664.98] in exile. -[2664.98 --> 2666.16] 2 Kings, -[2666.16 --> 2667.24] 14, -[2668.08 --> 2669.02] verse 25, -[2669.40 --> 2670.22] tells us -[2670.22 --> 2671.60] that Jonah, -[2671.90 --> 2673.26] son of Amittai, -[2673.40 --> 2674.30] is a prophet -[2674.30 --> 2675.78] in the northern -[2675.78 --> 2677.16] kingdom of Israel -[2677.16 --> 2678.44] and he's from -[2678.44 --> 2679.10] the city -[2679.10 --> 2680.66] of Gath-Hefer. -[2681.48 --> 2682.24] And he prophesies -[2682.96 --> 2684.26] during the reign -[2684.26 --> 2685.96] of Jeroboam II, -[2686.44 --> 2687.56] who is the son -[2687.56 --> 2689.18] of Jehoash. -[2690.12 --> 2690.40] Now, -[2690.48 --> 2691.42] this puts us -[2691.42 --> 2692.20] sometime -[2692.20 --> 2693.42] in the window -[2693.42 --> 2694.80] of 786 -[2694.80 --> 2697.88] to 746 B.C. -[2699.72 --> 2699.96] Now, -[2700.12 --> 2701.16] during this time -[2701.16 --> 2703.14] in the region, -[2703.46 --> 2704.48] you have -[2704.48 --> 2706.56] the Assyrian Empire -[2706.56 --> 2708.76] and that rule -[2708.76 --> 2710.74] throughout the land -[2710.74 --> 2711.86] and are constantly -[2711.86 --> 2713.76] haranguing -[2713.76 --> 2714.86] the Israelites -[2714.86 --> 2716.66] and the other -[2716.66 --> 2717.56] nation states -[2717.56 --> 2718.56] around them. -[2718.56 --> 2720.18] In fact, -[2720.30 --> 2720.64] sometime -[2720.64 --> 2721.98] in this period, -[2723.68 --> 2724.90] the Assyrians -[2724.90 --> 2725.82] have just -[2725.82 --> 2726.60] crushed -[2726.60 --> 2727.78] the -[2727.78 --> 2730.54] Arameans -[2730.54 --> 2732.36] and destroyed -[2732.36 --> 2733.16] their capital -[2733.16 --> 2734.40] city of Damascus. -[2734.52 --> 2734.74] Actually, -[2734.86 --> 2735.02] Linda, -[2735.10 --> 2735.42] can you put -[2735.42 --> 2736.14] the map up? -[2737.72 --> 2738.58] I will come -[2738.58 --> 2739.44] and point at this -[2739.44 --> 2740.08] in just a moment, -[2740.20 --> 2740.98] but as I say -[2740.98 --> 2741.78] these city names, -[2741.88 --> 2742.82] you might find them. -[2742.82 --> 2744.38] So, -[2744.44 --> 2745.38] the Arameans -[2745.38 --> 2746.68] had regular -[2746.68 --> 2748.00] border skirmishes -[2748.00 --> 2749.14] with Israel -[2749.14 --> 2750.92] and the -[2750.92 --> 2752.36] Assyrian assault -[2752.36 --> 2753.14] that destroyed -[2753.14 --> 2753.90] their capital -[2753.90 --> 2756.48] put an end -[2756.48 --> 2757.48] to those -[2757.48 --> 2758.42] regular skirmishes. -[2759.48 --> 2759.78] Now, -[2759.84 --> 2760.56] the Assyrians -[2760.56 --> 2761.22] also, -[2761.48 --> 2762.28] at this time, -[2762.68 --> 2763.88] face a conflict -[2763.88 --> 2764.70] or a battle -[2764.70 --> 2766.44] with a nation state -[2766.44 --> 2767.36] to their north -[2767.36 --> 2768.70] called Eratu. -[2770.28 --> 2771.10] And these -[2771.10 --> 2772.02] two fronts -[2772.02 --> 2772.62] on the north -[2772.62 --> 2773.40] and the south -[2773.40 --> 2774.56] stretched the -[2774.56 --> 2775.66] Assyrian empire -[2775.66 --> 2776.26] thin -[2776.26 --> 2777.84] and led -[2777.84 --> 2779.06] to internal -[2779.06 --> 2780.36] political divisions -[2780.36 --> 2782.38] such that -[2782.38 --> 2783.60] major cities -[2783.60 --> 2784.58] within the empire, -[2784.78 --> 2785.96] cities like Nineveh, -[2786.84 --> 2788.58] occasionally rebelled -[2788.58 --> 2790.10] or challenged -[2790.10 --> 2791.66] for ruling power. -[2793.68 --> 2793.90] Now, -[2793.98 --> 2794.64] these two -[2794.64 --> 2795.84] historical realities -[2795.84 --> 2797.28] have the impact -[2797.28 --> 2798.20] then of leading -[2798.20 --> 2799.16] to relative -[2799.16 --> 2799.92] peace -[2799.92 --> 2800.66] and relative -[2800.66 --> 2801.48] prosperity -[2801.48 --> 2802.72] for Israel -[2802.72 --> 2803.30] and Judah -[2803.30 --> 2804.44] during this time. -[2804.76 --> 2805.10] And again, -[2805.24 --> 2806.64] in 2 Kings 14, -[2806.92 --> 2807.72] you can read about it -[2807.72 --> 2808.22] at home, -[2808.74 --> 2809.76] you read that -[2809.76 --> 2810.42] it is because -[2810.42 --> 2811.82] of God's mercy -[2811.82 --> 2812.74] that this happens -[2812.74 --> 2814.36] and the promises -[2814.36 --> 2815.48] that God spoke -[2815.48 --> 2816.18] to the people -[2816.18 --> 2817.34] through Jonah -[2817.34 --> 2819.04] to Jeroboam to. -[2821.04 --> 2821.22] Now, -[2821.26 --> 2822.72] this historical context -[2822.72 --> 2823.90] might for us -[2823.90 --> 2824.78] understand -[2824.78 --> 2825.40] or help us -[2825.40 --> 2826.10] understand -[2826.10 --> 2827.46] why the leaders -[2827.46 --> 2828.22] and the people -[2828.22 --> 2828.94] in Nineveh -[2828.94 --> 2830.40] are so willing -[2830.40 --> 2832.00] to quickly turn -[2832.00 --> 2833.16] towards the message -[2833.16 --> 2833.80] of the Lord, -[2834.22 --> 2834.48] right? -[2834.54 --> 2834.98] For them, -[2835.08 --> 2835.50] the writing -[2835.50 --> 2836.14] is kind of -[2836.14 --> 2836.74] on the wall, -[2837.20 --> 2837.50] right? -[2837.78 --> 2838.70] That the decline -[2838.70 --> 2839.48] of their empire -[2839.48 --> 2840.58] is imminent. -[2841.46 --> 2842.10] And so, -[2842.22 --> 2843.26] just to help you see, -[2844.10 --> 2844.62] first, -[2845.62 --> 2847.28] here is Nineveh -[2847.28 --> 2849.26] and generally, -[2849.56 --> 2851.14] this is the Assyrian Empire -[2851.14 --> 2851.64] and you have -[2851.64 --> 2853.26] the Aramian Empire -[2853.26 --> 2854.52] here with their capital -[2854.52 --> 2855.38] Damascus -[2855.38 --> 2857.64] and then up here -[2857.64 --> 2858.94] around this lake -[2858.94 --> 2860.24] and then leading -[2860.24 --> 2861.64] north to the Black Sea -[2861.64 --> 2862.34] and all the way -[2862.34 --> 2863.10] down to here, -[2863.64 --> 2864.20] Tarsus, -[2864.36 --> 2865.28] kind of like this, -[2865.68 --> 2867.18] is the Aratu Empire -[2867.18 --> 2867.96] and so Assyria -[2867.96 --> 2869.06] kind of in the middle -[2869.06 --> 2870.46] facing these challenges. -[2871.18 --> 2871.62] Here, -[2871.74 --> 2872.66] if you are familiar -[2872.66 --> 2873.28] with the Bible, -[2873.44 --> 2875.24] is the city of Babylon. -[2875.58 --> 2876.88] This is the next empire -[2876.88 --> 2877.86] that will come in -[2877.86 --> 2879.06] and take over. -[2879.78 --> 2880.38] Down here, -[2880.52 --> 2881.96] you have Samaria, -[2882.12 --> 2882.76] which is the capital -[2882.76 --> 2883.40] of Israel -[2883.40 --> 2884.16] when the kingdoms -[2884.16 --> 2884.72] are split, -[2884.92 --> 2885.36] Jerusalem, -[2885.68 --> 2886.40] which is the capital -[2886.40 --> 2886.94] of Judah, -[2887.46 --> 2888.60] the port in Joppa -[2888.60 --> 2890.14] that Noah, -[2890.62 --> 2892.50] or that Jonah fled to -[2892.50 --> 2893.60] and then, -[2893.82 --> 2894.30] if we move -[2894.30 --> 2895.26] to this other map, -[2895.64 --> 2896.22] this is the map -[2896.22 --> 2897.38] of the Mediterranean Sea. -[2897.78 --> 2898.18] You can see it -[2898.18 --> 2898.62] all around here, -[2898.72 --> 2898.98] Italy, -[2899.18 --> 2899.76] very famously, -[2899.92 --> 2900.28] right there. -[2900.72 --> 2901.62] So Joppa port, -[2902.36 --> 2902.96] Tarshish, -[2903.10 --> 2903.62] it is thought, -[2903.70 --> 2904.86] is all the way -[2904.86 --> 2905.78] over here. -[2906.20 --> 2907.48] That's the Strait -[2907.48 --> 2908.24] of Gibraltar, -[2908.64 --> 2909.20] if any of you -[2909.20 --> 2910.36] have been out -[2910.36 --> 2911.10] down that way. -[2911.54 --> 2912.08] So this, -[2912.18 --> 2912.64] Tarshish, -[2912.74 --> 2913.88] is kind of -[2913.88 --> 2915.18] the end of the world -[2915.18 --> 2917.16] at that time -[2917.16 --> 2918.12] and that matters. -[2918.40 --> 2919.00] That's a point. -[2920.44 --> 2921.58] So you keep -[2921.58 --> 2922.86] these place names -[2922.86 --> 2923.48] in mind. -[2924.16 --> 2924.70] Maybe you can -[2924.70 --> 2925.42] even leave it up -[2925.42 --> 2926.68] as we go through. -[2928.88 --> 2929.16] Now, -[2929.16 --> 2931.48] one of the other, -[2931.76 --> 2932.70] I think, -[2932.90 --> 2934.16] interesting things -[2934.16 --> 2935.36] about Jonah, -[2935.80 --> 2936.10] right, -[2936.16 --> 2937.86] is that even though -[2937.86 --> 2939.26] we place this -[2939.26 --> 2940.58] in our Bibles -[2940.58 --> 2941.98] in the minor prophets, -[2942.60 --> 2943.42] and that even though -[2943.42 --> 2944.62] Jonah is a prophet, -[2945.80 --> 2947.58] it's very likely -[2947.58 --> 2948.58] that Jonah -[2948.58 --> 2949.46] didn't actually -[2949.46 --> 2950.18] write this book -[2950.18 --> 2950.68] himself, -[2950.90 --> 2951.72] right? -[2951.72 --> 2952.36] He's not telling -[2952.36 --> 2953.98] his own story. -[2953.98 --> 2956.60] And you can probably -[2956.60 --> 2957.32] also see, -[2957.54 --> 2958.42] if you have familiarity -[2958.42 --> 2959.82] with the other prophets, -[2959.92 --> 2960.76] especially if your Bibles -[2960.76 --> 2961.60] are open, -[2962.04 --> 2962.98] Jonah isn't written -[2962.98 --> 2964.06] in the same sort -[2964.06 --> 2964.64] of format -[2964.64 --> 2965.36] or structure -[2965.36 --> 2966.24] as the other -[2966.24 --> 2967.30] minor prophets. -[2967.48 --> 2968.36] The other minor prophets -[2968.36 --> 2969.36] look more like -[2969.36 --> 2970.62] chapter 2 of Jonah -[2970.62 --> 2971.58] than the rest, -[2971.64 --> 2971.78] right? -[2971.82 --> 2972.16] They're written -[2972.16 --> 2973.40] in a poetic form, -[2973.78 --> 2974.48] they're written -[2974.48 --> 2976.76] in a prophetic poetry, -[2976.92 --> 2977.50] whereas Jonah -[2977.50 --> 2978.64] is much more narrative, -[2978.98 --> 2979.94] it's more of a story. -[2980.66 --> 2981.20] In fact, -[2981.36 --> 2982.68] Jonah looks more -[2982.68 --> 2984.40] like the stories -[2984.40 --> 2985.50] of Elijah -[2985.50 --> 2986.76] or Elisha. -[2987.78 --> 2988.30] Elijah, -[2988.62 --> 2989.54] you might remember, -[2989.68 --> 2990.76] he's famous -[2990.76 --> 2992.12] for his story -[2992.12 --> 2993.12] of the conflict -[2993.12 --> 2995.54] with the 500 prophets -[2995.54 --> 2996.10] of Baal, -[2996.70 --> 2997.00] right? -[2997.06 --> 2997.90] Or Elisha -[2997.90 --> 2999.32] might be most famous -[2999.32 --> 3000.06] for his story -[3000.06 --> 3000.62] with the widow -[3000.62 --> 3001.98] and her young son -[3001.98 --> 3003.06] and the jar of oil -[3003.06 --> 3003.84] that lasted -[3003.84 --> 3005.22] throughout the famine. -[3006.50 --> 3007.64] And in those cases -[3007.64 --> 3009.38] of Elijah and Elisha -[3009.38 --> 3010.98] and the narrative stories -[3010.98 --> 3011.60] of the prophets, -[3012.52 --> 3013.88] the normal pattern -[3013.88 --> 3015.82] is for the story -[3015.82 --> 3016.94] to emphasize -[3016.94 --> 3018.24] the actions -[3018.24 --> 3019.36] of the prophet -[3019.36 --> 3020.90] to reveal -[3020.90 --> 3022.52] their special relationships -[3022.52 --> 3023.16] to God. -[3023.74 --> 3024.50] To show -[3024.50 --> 3025.36] that the prophet -[3025.36 --> 3027.20] has an exemplary -[3027.20 --> 3028.90] religious commitment -[3028.90 --> 3029.82] and devotion, -[3030.56 --> 3030.72] right? -[3030.76 --> 3031.24] To show -[3031.24 --> 3032.78] how good he is -[3032.78 --> 3033.84] and his behavior is -[3033.84 --> 3035.44] and how it comes together -[3035.44 --> 3035.84] then, -[3035.88 --> 3036.60] all those things, -[3036.72 --> 3037.92] to reveal -[3037.92 --> 3039.82] something about -[3039.82 --> 3040.70] the character -[3040.70 --> 3041.52] of God -[3041.52 --> 3042.22] to the people -[3042.22 --> 3043.20] and his will -[3043.20 --> 3043.90] for them -[3043.90 --> 3044.90] in their life. -[3046.40 --> 3046.84] Jonah -[3046.84 --> 3049.02] flips that script -[3049.02 --> 3050.30] almost entirely, -[3050.76 --> 3052.12] right? -[3052.14 --> 3053.14] In this story, -[3053.68 --> 3054.64] it is the people -[3054.64 --> 3055.78] of other nations -[3055.78 --> 3057.10] who do good, -[3057.94 --> 3058.66] right? -[3058.70 --> 3060.06] It's the pagans -[3060.06 --> 3061.88] who change their ways -[3061.88 --> 3063.54] and the prophet, -[3064.00 --> 3064.34] Jonah, -[3064.52 --> 3065.80] who's the problem one, -[3065.80 --> 3066.98] right? -[3066.98 --> 3068.16] The other nations, -[3068.40 --> 3069.18] the Gentiles, -[3069.34 --> 3070.84] the men on the boat, -[3071.34 --> 3074.16] look at verse 14, -[3076.56 --> 3076.78] right? -[3076.84 --> 3078.20] They cried out -[3078.20 --> 3079.48] to the Lord -[3079.48 --> 3081.54] and at the end -[3081.54 --> 3082.20] of the chapter, -[3082.50 --> 3082.70] right, -[3082.78 --> 3084.10] it seems to me -[3084.10 --> 3085.36] that they're converted, -[3086.18 --> 3086.42] right? -[3086.48 --> 3087.00] At the end -[3087.00 --> 3087.50] of the chapter, -[3087.74 --> 3089.80] verse 16, -[3090.58 --> 3091.62] the men greatly -[3091.62 --> 3092.66] feared the Lord -[3092.66 --> 3093.32] and they offered -[3093.32 --> 3093.94] a sacrifice -[3093.94 --> 3094.66] to the Lord -[3094.66 --> 3096.06] and made vows -[3096.06 --> 3096.76] to him. -[3097.68 --> 3098.40] At the end -[3098.40 --> 3099.20] of chapter 3, -[3099.38 --> 3099.96] we'll see -[3099.96 --> 3102.56] that the Ninevites -[3102.56 --> 3103.82] believed God. -[3104.70 --> 3105.34] The king, -[3105.50 --> 3106.22] he repents -[3106.22 --> 3107.30] in sackcloth -[3107.30 --> 3108.20] and dust -[3108.20 --> 3109.22] and he throws himself -[3109.22 --> 3109.82] on the mercy -[3109.82 --> 3110.38] of God. -[3111.56 --> 3112.26] The point -[3112.26 --> 3113.28] in this story -[3113.28 --> 3114.58] is that Jonah -[3114.58 --> 3116.24] isn't the good character. -[3117.44 --> 3117.94] He's not -[3117.94 --> 3119.18] the exemplary one. -[3119.26 --> 3119.92] He's not the one -[3119.92 --> 3120.32] you're supposed -[3120.32 --> 3121.10] to see and go, -[3121.24 --> 3121.48] yeah, -[3121.66 --> 3122.68] I want to be like him. -[3122.68 --> 3125.02] He's a poor prophet. -[3126.30 --> 3126.62] In fact, -[3126.66 --> 3127.40] there's one writer -[3127.40 --> 3128.58] who calls -[3128.58 --> 3129.72] the book of Jonah -[3129.72 --> 3130.54] a, quote, -[3130.68 --> 3131.94] gentle parody -[3131.94 --> 3133.60] of traditional prophecy. -[3136.68 --> 3137.64] And I underscore -[3137.64 --> 3138.44] this point -[3138.44 --> 3140.20] because the thing is -[3140.20 --> 3141.12] most of us -[3141.12 --> 3142.34] know the children's -[3142.34 --> 3143.06] Bible version -[3143.06 --> 3144.06] of the story. -[3145.66 --> 3146.74] But that's not actually -[3146.74 --> 3147.58] what's happening here. -[3148.50 --> 3148.98] And so, -[3149.12 --> 3149.88] you should be -[3149.88 --> 3150.96] asking yourselves, -[3151.52 --> 3151.66] well, -[3151.72 --> 3152.30] then why? -[3152.68 --> 3154.02] Why is this -[3154.02 --> 3154.60] in the Bible? -[3154.74 --> 3155.78] Why is this story -[3155.78 --> 3156.56] important? -[3156.66 --> 3157.18] Why does it have -[3157.18 --> 3158.14] to be there at all? -[3158.68 --> 3158.76] Right? -[3158.88 --> 3159.40] Specifically, -[3159.72 --> 3160.96] what does God -[3160.96 --> 3162.98] want a post-exilic -[3162.98 --> 3164.14] Judah to learn -[3164.14 --> 3165.50] about God's -[3165.50 --> 3166.18] relationship -[3166.18 --> 3167.30] to the world -[3167.30 --> 3168.00] generally -[3168.00 --> 3169.50] and also -[3169.50 --> 3170.56] his relationship -[3170.56 --> 3171.50] to his chosen -[3171.50 --> 3172.64] people specifically? -[3173.80 --> 3174.24] And how does -[3174.24 --> 3175.08] the book of Jonah -[3175.08 --> 3175.90] open our eyes -[3175.90 --> 3176.30] to that? -[3177.86 --> 3178.36] Now, -[3178.42 --> 3178.98] I'm going to -[3178.98 --> 3179.98] suggest to you -[3179.98 --> 3180.96] that the answer -[3180.96 --> 3182.56] is threefold -[3182.56 --> 3183.18] and they all -[3183.18 --> 3184.22] relate to each other -[3184.22 --> 3184.70] and kind of -[3184.70 --> 3185.52] build on each other -[3185.52 --> 3186.54] and they are themes -[3186.54 --> 3187.46] that we will return -[3187.46 --> 3188.48] to throughout -[3188.48 --> 3189.96] this quick series. -[3190.62 --> 3191.18] This is going to -[3191.18 --> 3191.76] be the frame -[3191.76 --> 3192.78] for our sort of -[3192.78 --> 3193.44] four parts -[3193.44 --> 3194.02] together. -[3195.02 --> 3195.70] And so, -[3195.82 --> 3196.74] if you're a note taker, -[3196.88 --> 3197.72] three points here. -[3198.24 --> 3198.78] And we'll go through -[3198.78 --> 3199.18] them quickly -[3199.18 --> 3200.18] because we'll return -[3200.18 --> 3200.88] to them throughout. -[3201.20 --> 3201.62] First, -[3202.28 --> 3202.64] Jonah -[3202.64 --> 3203.82] is about -[3203.82 --> 3204.70] election. -[3204.70 --> 3206.28] Now, -[3206.36 --> 3206.78] election -[3206.78 --> 3208.22] is the Bible's -[3208.22 --> 3209.34] word for God -[3209.34 --> 3210.20] choosing some -[3210.20 --> 3210.94] for salvation. -[3212.16 --> 3213.20] And part of -[3213.20 --> 3213.64] what Jonah -[3213.64 --> 3214.56] teaches us -[3214.56 --> 3215.76] is that -[3215.76 --> 3216.90] God's election -[3216.90 --> 3218.32] is bigger -[3218.32 --> 3219.26] than you -[3219.26 --> 3220.34] think it should -[3220.34 --> 3220.68] be. -[3222.94 --> 3223.58] Do you hear -[3223.58 --> 3224.02] what I'm saying? -[3225.08 --> 3226.48] God chooses -[3226.48 --> 3227.58] broader -[3227.58 --> 3229.12] than you -[3229.12 --> 3229.94] think is -[3229.94 --> 3230.64] wise. -[3230.64 --> 3235.02] second thing, -[3236.04 --> 3236.34] Jonah -[3236.34 --> 3237.12] is about -[3237.12 --> 3237.50] God's -[3237.50 --> 3238.16] justice, -[3238.76 --> 3239.42] specifically -[3239.42 --> 3240.50] about how -[3240.50 --> 3241.52] God's justice -[3241.52 --> 3242.24] cuts -[3242.24 --> 3243.54] both ways. -[3244.98 --> 3245.58] And therefore, -[3246.64 --> 3247.52] God's justice -[3247.52 --> 3248.58] excludes -[3248.58 --> 3249.46] from election -[3249.46 --> 3250.48] those whom -[3250.48 --> 3251.22] you think -[3251.22 --> 3252.02] should be -[3252.02 --> 3252.50] included. -[3254.16 --> 3254.92] Again, -[3255.04 --> 3255.34] do you hear -[3255.34 --> 3256.98] what's going -[3256.98 --> 3257.38] on here? -[3258.16 --> 3258.34] Right? -[3258.70 --> 3259.26] Our -[3259.26 --> 3260.38] presumptions, -[3260.38 --> 3261.68] our preconceived -[3261.68 --> 3262.30] ideas, -[3262.56 --> 3263.72] our preferences -[3263.72 --> 3264.94] are being -[3264.94 --> 3265.64] totally challenged -[3265.64 --> 3266.40] and undermined. -[3268.94 --> 3269.44] And third, -[3270.76 --> 3271.56] Jonah -[3271.56 --> 3272.22] is about -[3272.22 --> 3272.86] God's -[3272.86 --> 3273.62] mercy, -[3273.88 --> 3274.70] but specifically -[3274.70 --> 3276.12] how God's -[3276.12 --> 3276.54] mercy -[3276.54 --> 3278.04] is necessary -[3278.04 --> 3278.98] for both -[3278.98 --> 3279.40] of those -[3279.40 --> 3280.22] two other -[3280.22 --> 3280.56] things, -[3280.66 --> 3281.28] necessary for -[3281.28 --> 3281.86] his election -[3281.86 --> 3282.94] and for -[3282.94 --> 3284.40] his justice. -[3285.64 --> 3285.86] Now, -[3285.90 --> 3286.18] this is -[3286.18 --> 3286.62] highlighted, -[3287.14 --> 3287.96] for instance, -[3288.08 --> 3288.68] by Jonah's -[3288.68 --> 3289.98] glaring hypocrisy -[3289.98 --> 3290.52] and you -[3290.52 --> 3290.80] will get -[3290.80 --> 3291.18] to see -[3291.18 --> 3291.78] that next -[3291.78 --> 3292.10] week. -[3292.88 --> 3293.24] Josh -[3293.24 --> 3293.64] is going -[3293.64 --> 3293.86] to be -[3293.86 --> 3294.12] preaching -[3294.12 --> 3294.62] for us -[3294.62 --> 3295.04] on chapter -[3295.04 --> 3296.12] two and -[3296.12 --> 3296.46] he's going -[3296.46 --> 3297.08] to lean -[3297.08 --> 3297.78] into this -[3297.78 --> 3298.88] for us -[3298.88 --> 3299.08] there. -[3299.16 --> 3299.38] But let -[3299.38 --> 3300.04] me make -[3300.04 --> 3300.86] this point -[3300.86 --> 3301.26] by way -[3301.26 --> 3301.82] of another -[3301.82 --> 3302.46] example. -[3304.54 --> 3305.14] Justice -[3305.14 --> 3307.04] is an -[3307.04 --> 3307.84] act of -[3307.84 --> 3308.36] God's -[3308.36 --> 3308.96] character -[3308.96 --> 3309.50] trait, -[3309.66 --> 3309.82] right? -[3309.86 --> 3310.12] It's a -[3310.12 --> 3310.70] living out -[3310.70 --> 3311.24] of God's -[3311.24 --> 3311.64] character -[3311.64 --> 3312.74] of being -[3312.74 --> 3313.28] just. -[3314.16 --> 3314.68] So God -[3314.68 --> 3315.36] is just, -[3315.50 --> 3316.06] therefore he -[3316.06 --> 3316.42] acts -[3316.42 --> 3317.36] justly, -[3317.36 --> 3318.36] he provides -[3318.36 --> 3319.36] justice. -[3320.42 --> 3320.98] And same -[3320.98 --> 3321.48] thing with -[3321.48 --> 3321.82] God's -[3321.82 --> 3322.36] mercy, -[3322.52 --> 3322.68] right? -[3322.98 --> 3323.70] Mercy is -[3323.70 --> 3324.56] because God -[3324.56 --> 3325.62] is merciful. -[3326.88 --> 3327.26] And what we -[3327.26 --> 3327.82] need to hear -[3327.82 --> 3329.14] is that God -[3329.14 --> 3330.06] is not -[3330.06 --> 3332.06] self-contradictory, -[3333.86 --> 3334.00] right? -[3334.38 --> 3336.32] That God -[3336.32 --> 3336.78] is, -[3338.18 --> 3338.90] those two -[3338.90 --> 3340.02] aspects of -[3340.02 --> 3340.44] who God -[3340.44 --> 3340.96] is and -[3340.96 --> 3341.28] what he -[3341.28 --> 3341.76] does do -[3341.76 --> 3342.44] not contradict -[3342.44 --> 3343.10] each other. -[3343.52 --> 3344.18] Part of -[3344.18 --> 3344.58] God's -[3344.58 --> 3345.14] aseity, -[3345.42 --> 3345.66] which is -[3345.66 --> 3346.64] the theological -[3346.64 --> 3347.18] way of -[3347.18 --> 3347.60] saying his -[3347.60 --> 3348.46] simplicity, -[3349.16 --> 3349.92] means that -[3349.92 --> 3350.78] God cannot -[3350.78 --> 3351.90] contain in -[3351.90 --> 3352.50] his being -[3352.50 --> 3353.48] contradictions. -[3354.66 --> 3355.22] And so, -[3355.44 --> 3355.86] what this -[3355.86 --> 3356.26] means for -[3356.26 --> 3356.78] us is that -[3356.78 --> 3357.34] you cannot -[3357.34 --> 3358.28] put justice -[3358.28 --> 3359.04] and mercy -[3359.04 --> 3359.96] at odds -[3359.96 --> 3360.48] to each -[3360.48 --> 3360.78] other. -[3361.66 --> 3362.22] Because -[3362.22 --> 3362.42] they're -[3362.42 --> 3363.06] characteristics -[3363.06 --> 3363.66] of God -[3363.66 --> 3363.94] and who -[3363.94 --> 3364.40] he is. -[3364.90 --> 3365.54] They work -[3365.54 --> 3366.18] in tandem. -[3366.68 --> 3366.98] They work -[3366.98 --> 3367.64] together -[3367.64 --> 3368.96] towards his -[3368.96 --> 3369.74] choosing and -[3369.74 --> 3370.54] towards his -[3370.54 --> 3371.30] election. -[3371.48 --> 3371.60] So, -[3371.96 --> 3372.34] practically, -[3372.56 --> 3372.88] what is this? -[3373.02 --> 3373.56] Sometimes, -[3373.56 --> 3374.36] you might -[3374.36 --> 3374.90] hear people -[3374.90 --> 3375.26] say, -[3376.50 --> 3376.82] you know, -[3376.94 --> 3377.24] when it -[3377.24 --> 3377.90] comes to -[3377.90 --> 3378.56] choosing between -[3378.56 --> 3379.32] justice and -[3379.32 --> 3379.68] mercy, -[3379.90 --> 3380.92] I'm going to -[3380.92 --> 3381.64] err on the -[3381.64 --> 3382.20] side of -[3382.20 --> 3382.58] mercy. -[3383.54 --> 3383.82] Or we'll -[3383.82 --> 3384.26] put it another -[3384.26 --> 3384.42] way, -[3384.48 --> 3385.44] sometimes using -[3385.44 --> 3386.04] New Testament -[3386.04 --> 3386.62] language, -[3387.14 --> 3387.42] we say, -[3387.58 --> 3388.04] people go, -[3388.28 --> 3388.50] you know, -[3388.58 --> 3389.30] there is grace -[3389.30 --> 3390.02] and there is -[3390.02 --> 3390.46] truth, -[3391.28 --> 3392.08] and I want to -[3392.08 --> 3392.64] err on the -[3392.64 --> 3393.00] side of -[3393.00 --> 3393.42] grace. -[3395.24 --> 3395.92] Part of -[3395.92 --> 3396.24] what Jonah -[3396.24 --> 3396.76] is teaching -[3396.76 --> 3397.14] us, -[3397.22 --> 3397.74] I think, -[3397.80 --> 3398.16] is that -[3398.16 --> 3399.22] those are -[3399.22 --> 3399.64] false -[3399.64 --> 3400.58] dichotomies. -[3401.76 --> 3402.36] That justice -[3402.36 --> 3402.90] and mercy -[3402.90 --> 3403.74] are together -[3403.74 --> 3404.82] in God -[3404.82 --> 3405.82] and therefore -[3405.82 --> 3407.18] ought to be -[3407.18 --> 3407.76] together in -[3407.76 --> 3408.34] his people. -[3409.74 --> 3410.34] Grace and -[3410.34 --> 3411.58] truth don't -[3411.58 --> 3412.54] contradict each -[3412.54 --> 3412.80] other. -[3413.24 --> 3413.76] They come -[3413.76 --> 3414.24] together. -[3415.30 --> 3416.02] And at the -[3416.02 --> 3416.36] end, -[3416.54 --> 3417.54] what we'll see, -[3417.80 --> 3418.56] hopefully every -[3418.56 --> 3418.96] week, -[3419.12 --> 3419.90] is that they -[3419.90 --> 3420.60] come together -[3420.60 --> 3421.32] in a man, -[3421.52 --> 3422.50] a man named -[3422.50 --> 3423.32] Jesus. -[3423.98 --> 3424.14] Right? -[3424.20 --> 3424.84] In Jesus, -[3425.14 --> 3426.18] grace and -[3426.18 --> 3427.02] truth are -[3427.02 --> 3428.34] perfectly revealed -[3428.34 --> 3429.32] in union -[3429.32 --> 3429.72] together. -[3429.72 --> 3430.72] in the gospel -[3430.72 --> 3431.50] of Jesus, -[3432.10 --> 3433.34] justice and -[3433.34 --> 3434.42] mercy are -[3434.42 --> 3435.46] hand-in-glove -[3435.46 --> 3436.52] attributes of -[3436.52 --> 3437.16] God's work -[3437.16 --> 3438.04] in the world. -[3438.84 --> 3439.74] And in fact, -[3439.86 --> 3440.56] what happens -[3440.56 --> 3440.94] when you -[3440.94 --> 3442.00] overemphasize -[3442.00 --> 3443.38] one at the -[3443.38 --> 3444.08] expense or -[3444.08 --> 3444.86] the cost of -[3444.86 --> 3445.50] the other, -[3446.10 --> 3446.26] right, -[3446.38 --> 3447.22] that's when -[3447.22 --> 3447.96] hypocrisy -[3447.96 --> 3448.44] comes. -[3449.72 --> 3450.46] So when you -[3450.46 --> 3450.62] say, -[3450.76 --> 3451.22] I'm going to -[3451.22 --> 3451.74] lean on -[3451.74 --> 3452.90] justice right -[3452.90 --> 3453.18] now, -[3453.24 --> 3453.74] that's when -[3453.74 --> 3454.56] hypocrisy -[3454.56 --> 3454.98] comes. -[3455.16 --> 3455.60] Or when you -[3455.60 --> 3455.74] say, -[3455.80 --> 3456.10] I'm going to -[3456.10 --> 3456.96] choose mercy, -[3457.20 --> 3458.04] that's when -[3458.04 --> 3458.78] hypocrisy -[3458.78 --> 3459.64] comes. -[3461.32 --> 3461.56] Now, -[3461.72 --> 3462.78] I think that -[3462.78 --> 3463.28] we will see -[3463.28 --> 3464.10] all of these -[3464.10 --> 3464.82] three themes -[3464.82 --> 3465.62] throughout each -[3465.62 --> 3466.02] chapter, -[3466.14 --> 3466.46] but there will -[3466.46 --> 3467.38] be particular, -[3468.40 --> 3470.10] a unique focus -[3470.10 --> 3471.00] in each one. -[3471.38 --> 3471.92] I think that -[3471.92 --> 3472.74] unique focus -[3472.74 --> 3473.66] in chapter one -[3473.66 --> 3475.16] is that first -[3475.16 --> 3475.86] theme. -[3476.56 --> 3476.74] Right? -[3476.78 --> 3477.22] That the book -[3477.22 --> 3477.98] of Jonah is -[3477.98 --> 3478.90] about election, -[3479.24 --> 3480.34] but that election -[3480.34 --> 3481.84] is bigger than -[3481.84 --> 3482.68] you think it -[3482.68 --> 3483.24] should be. -[3484.10 --> 3485.16] It was definitely -[3485.16 --> 3485.92] bigger than what -[3485.92 --> 3486.60] Jonah thought it -[3486.60 --> 3487.02] should be. -[3487.02 --> 3488.88] right? -[3488.94 --> 3489.58] In the story, -[3490.48 --> 3491.82] Jonah is -[3491.82 --> 3492.90] called by God -[3492.90 --> 3494.06] to leave his -[3494.06 --> 3495.04] home and to -[3495.04 --> 3496.84] go up to -[3496.84 --> 3497.54] Nineveh. -[3497.66 --> 3498.62] So he's -[3498.62 --> 3499.30] living here -[3499.30 --> 3499.88] somewhere, -[3500.82 --> 3501.04] right, -[3501.10 --> 3502.12] and to go up -[3502.12 --> 3503.22] to Nineveh -[3503.22 --> 3504.56] and preach -[3504.56 --> 3505.24] to them -[3505.24 --> 3506.66] the looming -[3506.66 --> 3507.66] judgments and -[3507.66 --> 3508.74] the need to -[3508.74 --> 3510.34] find forgiveness. -[3510.34 --> 3512.88] and he's -[3512.88 --> 3513.62] called to go -[3513.62 --> 3515.20] and Jonah -[3515.20 --> 3516.28] doesn't -[3516.28 --> 3517.50] like it. -[3519.00 --> 3519.48] Right? -[3519.52 --> 3519.98] And he doesn't -[3519.98 --> 3520.66] like it for a -[3520.66 --> 3521.48] couple reasons -[3521.48 --> 3523.48] and we know -[3523.48 --> 3523.96] this because -[3523.96 --> 3525.00] at the end of -[3525.00 --> 3525.32] the book, -[3525.44 --> 3526.10] Jonah says, -[3526.42 --> 3526.80] I didn't want -[3526.80 --> 3527.30] to come here -[3527.30 --> 3528.18] because I knew -[3528.18 --> 3529.14] and know that -[3529.14 --> 3530.02] you are gracious -[3530.02 --> 3530.88] and compassionate, -[3531.08 --> 3531.88] slow to anger -[3531.88 --> 3532.76] and abounding -[3532.76 --> 3533.14] in love. -[3533.26 --> 3534.06] Jonah knows -[3534.06 --> 3534.80] that God is -[3534.80 --> 3535.40] going to forgive -[3535.40 --> 3535.98] these people -[3535.98 --> 3536.66] if they ask -[3536.66 --> 3537.62] for it and he -[3537.62 --> 3538.18] doesn't think -[3538.18 --> 3538.66] they deserve -[3538.66 --> 3539.34] to be forgiven -[3539.34 --> 3541.14] because remember -[3541.14 --> 3541.86] what has happened. -[3542.14 --> 3542.96] They are, -[3543.36 --> 3543.94] the people of -[3543.94 --> 3544.24] Nineveh, -[3544.36 --> 3545.08] the Assyrians -[3545.08 --> 3546.34] are their enemies. -[3546.60 --> 3546.96] They've been -[3546.96 --> 3548.02] for generations -[3548.02 --> 3549.32] battling them -[3549.32 --> 3550.02] and forcing them -[3550.02 --> 3550.74] and persecuting -[3550.74 --> 3551.60] and killing them -[3551.60 --> 3552.66] and Jonah doesn't -[3552.66 --> 3553.76] think they deserve -[3553.76 --> 3554.54] forgiveness. -[3556.88 --> 3557.92] And instead -[3557.92 --> 3559.04] of seeing -[3559.04 --> 3560.04] God's offer -[3560.04 --> 3560.90] to the Ninevites -[3560.90 --> 3561.68] as a miracle -[3561.68 --> 3562.66] of grace, -[3563.26 --> 3564.90] he gets angry -[3564.90 --> 3565.44] with God. -[3566.88 --> 3567.74] He wants -[3567.74 --> 3568.50] justice -[3568.50 --> 3570.42] at the expense -[3570.42 --> 3571.04] of mercy. -[3572.14 --> 3572.58] You see how -[3572.58 --> 3573.20] he separated -[3573.20 --> 3573.76] those things? -[3574.92 --> 3575.54] He wants -[3575.54 --> 3576.32] revenge. -[3577.28 --> 3577.56] Justice -[3577.56 --> 3578.36] at the expense -[3578.36 --> 3579.18] of mercy -[3579.18 --> 3580.30] is probably -[3580.30 --> 3581.40] better defined -[3581.40 --> 3582.56] as revenge. -[3584.58 --> 3585.22] And he, -[3585.44 --> 3585.72] Jonah, -[3585.88 --> 3586.42] wants to be -[3586.42 --> 3586.84] the one -[3586.84 --> 3587.88] who decides -[3587.88 --> 3588.94] who's in -[3588.94 --> 3590.34] and who's out. -[3590.54 --> 3591.00] He wants -[3591.00 --> 3591.66] to be the one -[3591.66 --> 3592.84] who will receive -[3592.84 --> 3593.36] mercy -[3593.36 --> 3594.84] and to define -[3594.84 --> 3595.58] who won't -[3595.58 --> 3597.12] receive mercy. -[3597.12 --> 3597.16] mercy. -[3597.76 --> 3598.24] Instead, -[3598.78 --> 3598.98] right, -[3599.08 --> 3599.66] Jonah wants -[3599.66 --> 3600.32] God to wipe -[3600.32 --> 3600.72] them out. -[3600.80 --> 3601.22] He says, -[3601.62 --> 3602.20] you are supposed -[3602.20 --> 3602.68] to be the -[3602.68 --> 3603.48] protector of -[3603.48 --> 3604.10] Israel -[3604.10 --> 3605.00] and Israel -[3605.00 --> 3605.58] alone. -[3606.04 --> 3606.56] And so, -[3606.76 --> 3607.98] in that anger, -[3608.16 --> 3608.74] he runs. -[3609.88 --> 3610.52] He runs -[3610.52 --> 3611.16] to the coast -[3611.16 --> 3611.86] to Joppa -[3611.86 --> 3612.58] and he boards -[3612.58 --> 3613.08] a ship -[3613.08 --> 3614.88] and he flees -[3614.88 --> 3616.08] to Tarshish. -[3617.12 --> 3618.06] He's trying -[3618.06 --> 3618.64] to flee -[3618.64 --> 3619.52] God's plan, -[3619.70 --> 3620.68] trying to flee -[3620.68 --> 3622.20] God's presence. -[3622.42 --> 3622.98] And remember, -[3623.14 --> 3624.20] you see Tarshish -[3624.20 --> 3625.02] on the far -[3625.02 --> 3626.16] western side -[3626.16 --> 3626.84] of the Mediterranean -[3626.84 --> 3627.12] Sea. -[3627.22 --> 3628.06] This is the -[3628.06 --> 3628.98] end of the -[3628.98 --> 3629.32] world. -[3630.44 --> 3631.12] It's about as -[3631.12 --> 3631.98] far away -[3631.98 --> 3633.40] from the -[3633.40 --> 3634.22] place of -[3634.22 --> 3635.22] God that -[3635.22 --> 3635.82] Jonah, -[3636.12 --> 3636.74] the place -[3636.74 --> 3637.24] where God -[3637.24 --> 3638.10] is known -[3638.10 --> 3638.94] to the people -[3638.94 --> 3639.44] that Jonah -[3639.44 --> 3639.92] can get. -[3639.92 --> 3641.80] Now, -[3641.94 --> 3643.90] at this time, -[3644.26 --> 3645.44] a lot of -[3645.44 --> 3647.26] people believed -[3647.26 --> 3648.22] that the -[3648.22 --> 3649.28] gods were -[3649.28 --> 3650.44] contained to -[3650.44 --> 3651.10] a particular -[3651.10 --> 3652.52] area or -[3652.52 --> 3652.84] they were -[3652.84 --> 3653.64] tied to -[3653.64 --> 3654.32] a particular -[3654.32 --> 3655.20] region. -[3655.98 --> 3656.46] And it's -[3656.46 --> 3657.50] possible that -[3657.50 --> 3658.50] Jonah was -[3658.50 --> 3659.18] just trying -[3659.18 --> 3660.12] to escape -[3660.12 --> 3661.04] the region -[3661.04 --> 3662.02] of Yahweh, -[3663.20 --> 3664.06] even though -[3664.06 --> 3665.04] Jonah himself -[3665.04 --> 3665.90] realizes and -[3665.90 --> 3666.30] knows that -[3666.30 --> 3667.02] that's impossible. -[3667.68 --> 3668.26] He says to -[3668.26 --> 3668.74] the sailors -[3668.74 --> 3669.52] in verse 9, -[3669.64 --> 3669.88] he says, -[3669.92 --> 3671.02] I am a -[3671.02 --> 3671.40] Hebrew. -[3671.94 --> 3672.42] I worship -[3672.42 --> 3672.96] the Lord, -[3673.08 --> 3673.62] the God -[3673.62 --> 3674.14] of heaven, -[3674.14 --> 3674.84] who made -[3674.84 --> 3675.62] the seas -[3675.62 --> 3676.32] and the -[3676.32 --> 3676.92] dry land. -[3677.84 --> 3678.08] Like, -[3678.14 --> 3678.44] in his -[3678.44 --> 3679.12] heart of -[3679.12 --> 3679.48] hearts, -[3679.54 --> 3680.14] he knows -[3680.14 --> 3680.78] there's no -[3680.78 --> 3681.64] escaping the -[3681.64 --> 3682.02] God of -[3682.02 --> 3682.20] heaven. -[3682.30 --> 3682.68] There's no -[3682.68 --> 3683.28] running from -[3683.28 --> 3684.04] him because -[3684.04 --> 3685.14] he created -[3685.14 --> 3685.82] the sea -[3685.82 --> 3686.24] and the -[3686.24 --> 3686.86] dry land. -[3687.22 --> 3687.62] And so, -[3687.74 --> 3688.20] there should -[3688.20 --> 3689.00] only be -[3689.00 --> 3689.62] submitting. -[3691.60 --> 3692.32] But while -[3692.32 --> 3692.72] on this -[3692.72 --> 3693.00] boat, -[3693.12 --> 3693.46] a great -[3693.46 --> 3694.38] storm comes -[3694.38 --> 3695.10] up and -[3695.10 --> 3695.68] the sailors -[3695.68 --> 3696.78] are terrified. -[3697.06 --> 3697.60] They're afraid -[3697.60 --> 3698.12] they're about -[3698.12 --> 3698.70] to die. -[3698.70 --> 3699.42] The boat -[3699.42 --> 3699.98] is rocking -[3699.98 --> 3700.74] around and -[3700.74 --> 3701.24] things are -[3701.24 --> 3701.94] falling off -[3701.94 --> 3702.40] and people -[3702.40 --> 3702.98] are crying -[3702.98 --> 3703.34] out. -[3704.30 --> 3704.82] And Jonah, -[3705.12 --> 3705.70] being woken -[3705.70 --> 3706.18] up by the -[3706.18 --> 3706.54] captain, -[3706.82 --> 3708.18] realizes that -[3708.18 --> 3708.90] because he -[3708.90 --> 3710.06] ran from God, -[3710.18 --> 3711.34] this storm has -[3711.34 --> 3712.42] fallen on them. -[3712.72 --> 3713.08] And so he -[3713.08 --> 3714.02] tells the sailors, -[3714.58 --> 3715.16] throw me -[3715.16 --> 3716.40] overboard and -[3716.40 --> 3716.92] you will be -[3716.92 --> 3717.24] saved. -[3717.34 --> 3717.66] In fact, -[3717.92 --> 3718.38] specifically, -[3718.58 --> 3718.92] he says, -[3719.08 --> 3720.10] throw me into -[3720.10 --> 3721.82] the sea and -[3721.82 --> 3722.44] it will become -[3722.44 --> 3722.82] calm. -[3722.82 --> 3724.54] Now, -[3725.50 --> 3726.02] interestingly, -[3726.34 --> 3727.20] the word -[3727.20 --> 3728.76] there was -[3728.76 --> 3729.44] originally written -[3729.44 --> 3730.08] in Hebrew. -[3730.58 --> 3731.44] The word in -[3731.44 --> 3732.20] Hebrew for -[3732.20 --> 3733.38] sea is -[3733.38 --> 3734.04] yam. -[3735.08 --> 3736.16] Y-A-M -[3736.16 --> 3736.78] for those of you -[3736.78 --> 3737.18] who are writing -[3737.18 --> 3737.48] it down. -[3738.10 --> 3739.60] Yam is also -[3739.60 --> 3741.04] the Ugaritic -[3741.04 --> 3742.36] word for the -[3742.36 --> 3743.54] Canaanite god -[3743.54 --> 3744.56] of the sea -[3744.56 --> 3745.52] called -[3745.52 --> 3746.52] yam. -[3746.52 --> 3748.94] And so -[3748.94 --> 3749.72] some see -[3749.72 --> 3751.08] this as -[3751.08 --> 3752.28] Jonah offering -[3752.28 --> 3753.34] himself as -[3753.34 --> 3754.08] a sacrifice -[3754.08 --> 3755.44] to yam, -[3755.64 --> 3756.30] the god of -[3756.30 --> 3756.68] the sea, -[3756.78 --> 3757.42] in order to -[3757.42 --> 3758.40] calm the sea. -[3760.46 --> 3760.98] Right? -[3761.06 --> 3761.90] And so he's -[3761.90 --> 3764.46] trying to -[3764.46 --> 3765.00] placate -[3765.00 --> 3766.44] another god -[3766.44 --> 3767.12] of a particular -[3767.12 --> 3768.88] region in -[3768.88 --> 3769.38] the midst of -[3769.38 --> 3769.58] this. -[3769.84 --> 3770.28] And what's -[3770.28 --> 3770.94] fascinating, -[3771.56 --> 3771.74] right, -[3771.82 --> 3772.16] look at -[3772.16 --> 3773.08] verse 13, -[3774.16 --> 3774.70] instead, -[3775.02 --> 3775.66] so Jonah says, -[3775.74 --> 3776.48] offer me as a -[3776.48 --> 3777.20] sacrifice to -[3777.20 --> 3778.06] yam and -[3778.06 --> 3778.78] these pagan -[3778.78 --> 3779.34] sailors. -[3780.62 --> 3781.06] Instead, -[3781.78 --> 3782.44] the men did -[3782.44 --> 3783.16] their best to -[3783.16 --> 3783.76] row back to -[3783.76 --> 3784.06] land. -[3784.92 --> 3785.40] That word -[3785.40 --> 3786.06] instead is -[3786.06 --> 3787.26] fascinating because -[3787.26 --> 3787.86] they probably -[3787.86 --> 3788.44] would have seen -[3788.44 --> 3789.02] the world through -[3789.02 --> 3789.70] that same lens -[3789.70 --> 3790.28] that Jonah would -[3790.28 --> 3790.36] have. -[3790.38 --> 3790.76] They probably -[3790.76 --> 3791.04] would have -[3791.04 --> 3791.44] believed that, -[3791.52 --> 3791.60] yeah, -[3791.90 --> 3792.64] yam is here -[3792.64 --> 3793.32] in this ocean -[3793.32 --> 3793.94] and if we -[3793.94 --> 3794.44] placate him, -[3794.52 --> 3794.86] this storm -[3794.86 --> 3795.32] will stop. -[3795.62 --> 3796.36] But instead, -[3797.50 --> 3798.04] they do -[3798.04 --> 3798.76] something different. -[3801.06 --> 3803.10] Instead of -[3803.10 --> 3804.82] sacrificing to -[3804.82 --> 3805.24] yam, -[3805.24 --> 3807.14] these sailors -[3807.14 --> 3808.04] cry out -[3808.04 --> 3809.04] to the Lord. -[3809.54 --> 3809.94] And again, -[3810.08 --> 3810.94] read that closely. -[3811.40 --> 3811.78] And if you're -[3811.78 --> 3812.32] looking at your -[3812.32 --> 3812.58] word, -[3812.92 --> 3813.74] at your Bibles, -[3813.94 --> 3814.38] the word -[3814.38 --> 3815.50] Lord there -[3815.50 --> 3816.24] is probably -[3816.24 --> 3817.30] in all caps, -[3817.54 --> 3817.72] right, -[3817.82 --> 3818.60] L-O-R-D, -[3818.74 --> 3819.46] in all caps. -[3819.46 --> 3820.24] That's because -[3820.24 --> 3821.14] it's translating -[3821.14 --> 3822.10] the Hebrew word -[3822.10 --> 3822.68] Yahweh, -[3822.92 --> 3823.34] which is the -[3823.34 --> 3824.36] covenant name -[3824.36 --> 3824.92] of God. -[3825.04 --> 3825.42] It is the -[3825.42 --> 3826.28] special name -[3826.28 --> 3827.36] that God -[3827.36 --> 3828.52] reveals himself -[3828.52 --> 3829.24] to Moses -[3829.24 --> 3830.28] through and -[3830.28 --> 3831.32] for his -[3831.32 --> 3831.94] people. -[3831.94 --> 3833.48] and here -[3833.48 --> 3834.30] it's on -[3834.30 --> 3834.94] the lips -[3834.94 --> 3835.64] of these -[3835.64 --> 3836.32] supposedly -[3836.32 --> 3837.06] pagan -[3837.06 --> 3838.24] mariners. -[3839.34 --> 3839.66] Do not -[3839.66 --> 3840.10] hold us -[3840.10 --> 3840.58] accountable -[3840.58 --> 3841.24] for killing -[3841.24 --> 3841.68] an innocent -[3841.68 --> 3842.02] man, -[3842.12 --> 3842.56] for you, -[3842.74 --> 3842.98] Lord, -[3843.08 --> 3843.66] have done -[3843.66 --> 3844.36] as you -[3844.36 --> 3845.34] pleased. -[3847.10 --> 3847.66] You, -[3847.84 --> 3848.12] Lord, -[3848.24 --> 3848.80] have done -[3848.80 --> 3849.52] as you -[3849.52 --> 3850.40] pleased. -[3850.84 --> 3851.64] This is the -[3851.64 --> 3852.08] confession -[3852.08 --> 3853.10] that should -[3853.10 --> 3853.66] be on the -[3853.66 --> 3854.08] lips of -[3854.08 --> 3854.40] Jonah. -[3854.40 --> 3854.48] Jonah. -[3856.76 --> 3857.36] But here -[3857.36 --> 3857.62] it is -[3857.62 --> 3858.08] coming from -[3858.08 --> 3858.38] these -[3858.38 --> 3859.68] sailors. -[3861.56 --> 3862.74] Who knows -[3862.74 --> 3863.50] this covenant -[3863.50 --> 3864.18] God who -[3864.18 --> 3864.90] is sovereign, -[3865.28 --> 3865.90] who rules, -[3866.20 --> 3866.76] who knows -[3866.76 --> 3867.10] that he -[3867.10 --> 3868.10] cannot escape -[3868.10 --> 3868.40] no matter -[3868.40 --> 3868.90] how far -[3868.90 --> 3869.56] he runs, -[3870.10 --> 3870.62] but he -[3870.62 --> 3871.00] doesn't make -[3871.00 --> 3871.60] that confession. -[3872.98 --> 3873.64] It comes -[3873.64 --> 3873.96] from the -[3873.96 --> 3874.46] outsiders. -[3875.50 --> 3875.88] It comes -[3875.88 --> 3876.18] from the -[3876.18 --> 3876.72] unexpected -[3876.72 --> 3877.86] ones. -[3878.72 --> 3878.92] Now, -[3879.50 --> 3880.82] don't hear -[3880.82 --> 3881.12] what I'm -[3881.12 --> 3881.68] not saying -[3881.68 --> 3883.00] because it -[3883.00 --> 3883.18] would be -[3883.18 --> 3883.90] really easy -[3883.90 --> 3884.38] for you -[3884.38 --> 3884.92] to stop -[3884.92 --> 3885.34] listening -[3885.34 --> 3885.80] at this -[3885.80 --> 3886.16] point -[3886.16 --> 3887.00] and think -[3887.00 --> 3887.44] that I'm -[3887.44 --> 3887.78] talking -[3887.78 --> 3888.06] about -[3888.06 --> 3888.32] some -[3888.32 --> 3888.64] sort -[3888.64 --> 3889.02] of -[3889.02 --> 3890.02] universalism, -[3891.40 --> 3891.56] right? -[3891.66 --> 3892.10] That I'm -[3892.10 --> 3892.68] talking about -[3892.68 --> 3893.40] some sort -[3893.40 --> 3894.78] of idea -[3894.78 --> 3895.18] that these -[3895.18 --> 3895.88] people didn't -[3895.88 --> 3896.52] know what -[3896.52 --> 3896.84] they were -[3896.84 --> 3897.22] believing -[3897.22 --> 3898.04] or what -[3898.04 --> 3898.34] they were -[3898.34 --> 3898.64] saying, -[3898.72 --> 3898.92] but they -[3898.92 --> 3899.34] just happened -[3899.34 --> 3899.66] to say -[3899.66 --> 3899.86] it. -[3900.74 --> 3901.08] But I -[3901.08 --> 3901.42] don't think -[3901.42 --> 3901.80] that's the -[3901.80 --> 3902.08] case, -[3902.16 --> 3902.40] and I -[3902.40 --> 3902.80] think that's -[3902.80 --> 3903.44] actually made -[3903.44 --> 3903.90] abundantly -[3903.90 --> 3904.44] clear from -[3904.44 --> 3904.86] the text -[3904.86 --> 3905.30] itself. -[3905.74 --> 3906.22] In verse -[3906.22 --> 3906.78] 16, -[3907.02 --> 3907.50] we read, -[3908.10 --> 3908.64] at this, -[3908.80 --> 3909.22] the men -[3909.22 --> 3910.26] greatly feared -[3910.26 --> 3910.76] the Lord, -[3910.88 --> 3911.16] again, -[3911.32 --> 3912.00] covenant name, -[3912.28 --> 3912.56] and they -[3912.56 --> 3913.06] offered a -[3913.06 --> 3913.84] sacrifice to -[3913.84 --> 3914.32] the Lord -[3914.32 --> 3914.94] and made -[3914.94 --> 3915.84] vows to -[3915.84 --> 3916.06] him. -[3917.64 --> 3917.98] Now, you -[3917.98 --> 3918.40] might hear -[3918.40 --> 3918.96] that and -[3918.96 --> 3919.20] think, -[3919.28 --> 3919.46] well, they -[3919.46 --> 3919.94] fear the -[3919.94 --> 3920.22] Lord, -[3920.32 --> 3920.96] they're afraid -[3920.96 --> 3921.54] because they're -[3921.54 --> 3922.04] afraid of -[3922.04 --> 3922.52] the storm. -[3923.52 --> 3924.26] But we -[3924.26 --> 3925.06] also know -[3925.06 --> 3926.06] regularly in -[3926.06 --> 3926.76] the Old Testament -[3926.76 --> 3927.32] scriptures, -[3927.58 --> 3928.18] right, that -[3928.18 --> 3929.48] to fear the -[3929.48 --> 3930.16] Lord means -[3930.16 --> 3931.00] something more, -[3931.38 --> 3931.56] right? -[3931.60 --> 3932.46] In Proverbs, -[3932.58 --> 3933.30] the fear of -[3933.30 --> 3933.94] the Lord is -[3933.94 --> 3934.44] the beginning -[3934.44 --> 3935.40] of wisdom. -[3936.12 --> 3936.78] And in that -[3936.78 --> 3937.26] sense, -[3937.52 --> 3938.72] fear means -[3938.72 --> 3939.38] awe, -[3939.52 --> 3939.98] it means -[3939.98 --> 3940.74] worship, -[3941.36 --> 3941.50] right? -[3941.50 --> 3941.88] It's a -[3941.88 --> 3942.76] right understanding -[3942.76 --> 3943.20] of the -[3943.20 --> 3944.06] relationship to -[3944.06 --> 3944.48] Yahweh, -[3944.58 --> 3944.94] who's the -[3944.94 --> 3945.78] God of -[3945.78 --> 3946.28] heaven and -[3946.28 --> 3946.82] the creator -[3946.82 --> 3947.30] of the -[3947.30 --> 3948.10] land and -[3948.10 --> 3948.44] of the -[3948.44 --> 3948.74] sea. -[3949.24 --> 3949.64] And because -[3949.64 --> 3950.80] these sailors -[3950.80 --> 3951.72] feared the -[3951.72 --> 3952.10] Lord, -[3952.48 --> 3953.00] what did they -[3953.00 --> 3953.54] do next? -[3954.34 --> 3954.62] Well, they -[3954.62 --> 3955.06] worshipped, -[3955.12 --> 3955.40] they made -[3955.40 --> 3956.16] sacrifice to -[3956.16 --> 3956.26] him, -[3956.32 --> 3956.66] they offered -[3956.66 --> 3957.22] vows to -[3957.22 --> 3957.46] him. -[3958.02 --> 3958.50] And so I -[3958.50 --> 3958.86] think that -[3958.86 --> 3959.16] the word -[3959.16 --> 3959.96] fear in -[3959.96 --> 3960.56] this text -[3960.56 --> 3961.34] is used -[3961.34 --> 3961.92] very -[3961.92 --> 3962.56] intentionally -[3962.56 --> 3963.94] to show -[3963.94 --> 3965.16] that it's -[3965.16 --> 3966.00] the second -[3966.00 --> 3966.56] sense, -[3966.62 --> 3966.98] it's the -[3966.98 --> 3967.62] worshipful -[3967.62 --> 3967.94] sense, -[3967.94 --> 3968.28] that these -[3968.28 --> 3968.70] pagan -[3968.70 --> 3969.20] sailors -[3969.20 --> 3970.14] worshipped -[3970.14 --> 3970.64] the Lord, -[3970.98 --> 3971.74] they feared -[3971.74 --> 3972.64] him more -[3972.64 --> 3973.72] greatly and -[3973.72 --> 3974.78] more appropriately -[3974.78 --> 3975.72] than Jonah -[3975.72 --> 3976.68] ever did. -[3979.98 --> 3980.76] And so now -[3980.76 --> 3981.34] think back to -[3981.34 --> 3981.74] the purpose -[3981.74 --> 3982.34] of this book. -[3983.20 --> 3983.80] As the -[3983.80 --> 3984.32] people of -[3984.32 --> 3984.60] Judah, -[3984.84 --> 3985.22] especially -[3985.22 --> 3986.02] after the -[3986.02 --> 3986.56] exile to -[3986.56 --> 3987.52] the Babylonians, -[3987.96 --> 3988.52] as they -[3988.52 --> 3989.18] hear this -[3989.18 --> 3989.44] story, -[3989.52 --> 3989.82] as they -[3989.82 --> 3990.44] read this -[3990.44 --> 3990.90] story, -[3991.28 --> 3992.12] their minds -[3992.12 --> 3992.66] begin to -[3992.66 --> 3993.24] turn on -[3993.24 --> 3994.04] that fact, -[3994.68 --> 3995.50] and they -[3995.50 --> 3995.82] begin to -[3995.82 --> 3996.38] ask themselves, -[3996.50 --> 3996.80] so what -[3996.80 --> 3997.08] does it -[3997.08 --> 3997.72] really mean? -[3997.94 --> 3998.40] To be -[3998.40 --> 3998.94] chosen by -[3998.94 --> 3999.26] God. -[4001.48 --> 4002.20] They begin -[4002.20 --> 4002.60] to wonder, -[4002.78 --> 4003.98] can we -[4003.98 --> 4004.86] rest on -[4004.86 --> 4005.72] the laurels -[4005.72 --> 4006.32] of having -[4006.32 --> 4007.30] Moses or -[4007.30 --> 4007.76] having the -[4007.76 --> 4008.06] law? -[4009.18 --> 4009.88] Or to -[4009.88 --> 4010.28] put it in -[4010.28 --> 4010.64] today's -[4010.64 --> 4011.08] context, -[4011.20 --> 4011.46] what does -[4011.46 --> 4011.78] it really -[4011.78 --> 4012.82] mean to -[4012.82 --> 4013.38] be Christian? -[4014.60 --> 4015.08] Can we -[4015.08 --> 4015.98] rest on -[4015.98 --> 4017.16] a 1700 -[4017.16 --> 4018.28] year history -[4018.28 --> 4019.04] of relative -[4019.04 --> 4019.54] Christian -[4019.54 --> 4020.08] priority, -[4020.22 --> 4020.50] at least -[4020.50 --> 4020.96] here in -[4020.96 --> 4021.40] the West, -[4021.50 --> 4021.82] and so -[4021.82 --> 4022.60] the social -[4022.60 --> 4023.06] structures -[4023.06 --> 4023.82] and the -[4023.82 --> 4024.32] laws of -[4024.32 --> 4024.72] the land -[4024.72 --> 4024.98] should -[4024.98 --> 4025.42] reflect -[4025.42 --> 4025.78] that? -[4026.00 --> 4026.28] Can we -[4026.28 --> 4026.68] rest on -[4026.68 --> 4026.90] those -[4026.90 --> 4027.34] laurels? -[4027.94 --> 4028.36] What does -[4028.36 --> 4028.72] it mean -[4028.72 --> 4029.08] to be -[4029.08 --> 4029.50] Christian -[4029.50 --> 4030.06] and to -[4030.06 --> 4030.28] go to -[4030.28 --> 4030.58] church -[4030.58 --> 4031.06] every week? -[4031.10 --> 4031.32] Is that -[4031.32 --> 4031.70] enough? -[4032.06 --> 4032.36] Am I -[4032.36 --> 4032.80] checking the -[4032.80 --> 4033.32] right boxes? -[4033.48 --> 4033.66] Am I -[4033.66 --> 4034.02] doing the -[4034.02 --> 4034.46] right things? -[4034.54 --> 4034.76] Am I -[4034.76 --> 4035.44] presuming too -[4035.44 --> 4035.88] much about -[4035.88 --> 4036.92] myself or -[4036.92 --> 4037.66] about what -[4037.66 --> 4038.62] I believe -[4038.62 --> 4039.22] God should -[4039.22 --> 4039.74] be doing -[4039.74 --> 4040.90] and not -[4040.90 --> 4041.46] actually having -[4041.46 --> 4041.84] my eyes -[4041.84 --> 4042.28] open to -[4042.28 --> 4042.70] what God -[4042.70 --> 4044.20] is doing -[4044.20 --> 4045.08] and where -[4045.08 --> 4045.84] God is -[4045.84 --> 4046.94] working? -[4046.94 --> 4047.56] God -[4047.56 --> 4049.56] is there -[4049.56 --> 4050.58] something deeper -[4050.58 --> 4051.92] something more -[4051.92 --> 4052.32] that should -[4052.32 --> 4052.86] be happening -[4052.86 --> 4053.32] in our -[4053.32 --> 4053.88] hearts -[4053.88 --> 4054.98] and among -[4054.98 --> 4055.50] us -[4055.50 --> 4056.32] as we -[4056.32 --> 4056.64] gather? -[4059.40 --> 4060.08] Genuine -[4060.08 --> 4060.74] belief -[4060.74 --> 4062.30] requires -[4062.30 --> 4063.54] conversion -[4063.54 --> 4064.78] conversion -[4064.78 --> 4065.80] requires a -[4065.80 --> 4067.00] new heart -[4067.00 --> 4067.54] in the -[4067.54 --> 4068.06] language of -[4068.06 --> 4068.30] the New -[4068.30 --> 4068.70] Testament -[4068.70 --> 4070.06] it requires -[4070.06 --> 4070.42] that you -[4070.42 --> 4071.10] be born -[4071.10 --> 4071.62] again -[4071.62 --> 4073.80] these men -[4073.80 --> 4075.48] these sailors -[4075.48 --> 4076.24] are an -[4076.24 --> 4077.18] example of -[4077.18 --> 4077.70] what that -[4077.70 --> 4078.30] might look -[4078.30 --> 4078.66] like -[4078.66 --> 4079.36] and it -[4079.36 --> 4080.00] ought to -[4080.00 --> 4080.82] be surprising -[4080.82 --> 4081.44] to you -[4081.44 --> 4084.44] now Jonah -[4084.44 --> 4085.08] does end up -[4085.08 --> 4085.52] overboard -[4085.52 --> 4087.08] right he -[4087.08 --> 4087.64] does end up -[4087.64 --> 4087.90] in the -[4087.90 --> 4088.56] raging sea -[4088.56 --> 4088.96] and it -[4088.96 --> 4089.58] does calm -[4089.58 --> 4089.98] down -[4089.98 --> 4090.54] because he -[4090.54 --> 4091.30] is given -[4091.30 --> 4091.66] over -[4091.66 --> 4092.10] and as -[4092.10 --> 4092.72] we read -[4092.72 --> 4093.20] in verse -[4093.20 --> 4093.80] 17 -[4093.80 --> 4094.66] the Lord -[4094.66 --> 4095.44] does provide -[4095.44 --> 4095.90] a huge -[4095.90 --> 4096.50] fish to -[4096.50 --> 4096.86] swallow -[4096.86 --> 4097.28] Jonah -[4097.28 --> 4097.84] and Jonah -[4097.84 --> 4098.48] is in -[4098.48 --> 4099.22] the belly -[4099.22 --> 4099.66] of that -[4099.66 --> 4099.96] fish -[4099.96 --> 4100.64] three days -[4100.64 --> 4101.46] and three -[4101.46 --> 4101.84] nights -[4101.84 --> 4104.36] and that's -[4104.36 --> 4104.82] kind of the -[4104.82 --> 4105.22] part of the -[4105.22 --> 4105.68] children's -[4105.68 --> 4106.12] story that -[4106.12 --> 4106.42] we get -[4106.42 --> 4106.68] right -[4106.68 --> 4107.92] and maybe -[4107.92 --> 4108.18] that's -[4108.18 --> 4108.46] it -[4108.46 --> 4112.74] now -[4112.74 --> 4115.74] as we -[4115.74 --> 4116.18] ask -[4116.18 --> 4116.86] ourselves -[4116.86 --> 4117.70] this -[4117.70 --> 4118.56] question -[4118.56 --> 4120.10] of how -[4120.10 --> 4121.44] is God's -[4121.44 --> 4122.20] election -[4122.20 --> 4123.32] bigger -[4123.32 --> 4124.40] than what I -[4124.40 --> 4124.84] think he -[4124.84 --> 4125.34] should rightly -[4125.34 --> 4126.18] do I -[4126.18 --> 4126.54] also want -[4126.54 --> 4126.82] to draw -[4126.82 --> 4127.18] another -[4127.18 --> 4127.98] example -[4127.98 --> 4128.74] and parallel -[4128.74 --> 4130.18] because you -[4130.18 --> 4130.46] see -[4130.46 --> 4133.10] centuries -[4133.10 --> 4134.22] after -[4134.22 --> 4134.84] this -[4134.84 --> 4135.68] story -[4135.68 --> 4137.54] you have -[4137.54 --> 4137.80] a new -[4137.80 --> 4138.28] man who -[4138.28 --> 4138.74] shows up -[4138.74 --> 4139.10] on the -[4139.10 --> 4139.38] scene -[4139.38 --> 4139.80] a man -[4139.80 --> 4140.20] named -[4140.20 --> 4140.94] Jesus -[4140.94 --> 4141.96] and he -[4141.96 --> 4142.36] does -[4142.36 --> 4143.16] the exact -[4143.16 --> 4143.90] same -[4143.90 --> 4144.56] thing -[4144.56 --> 4145.90] he subverts -[4145.90 --> 4146.66] expectations -[4146.66 --> 4147.60] of who -[4147.60 --> 4148.28] God is -[4148.28 --> 4148.68] rightly -[4148.68 --> 4149.44] choosing -[4149.44 --> 4149.78] Jesus -[4149.78 --> 4150.40] meets -[4150.40 --> 4150.96] with a -[4150.96 --> 4151.58] Samaritan -[4151.58 --> 4152.02] woman -[4152.02 --> 4152.70] at a -[4152.70 --> 4152.98] well -[4152.98 --> 4153.42] first of -[4153.42 --> 4153.54] all -[4153.54 --> 4153.98] she is -[4153.98 --> 4154.56] a woman -[4154.56 --> 4154.94] he should -[4154.94 --> 4155.22] not be -[4155.22 --> 4155.60] talking to -[4155.60 --> 4155.74] her -[4155.74 --> 4156.02] second -[4156.02 --> 4156.38] of all -[4156.38 --> 4157.06] she has -[4157.06 --> 4157.82] led -[4157.82 --> 4158.50] a very -[4158.50 --> 4160.50] confused -[4160.50 --> 4161.20] and broken -[4161.20 --> 4161.98] and immoral -[4161.98 --> 4162.80] life -[4162.80 --> 4164.56] and he -[4164.56 --> 4164.96] welcomes -[4164.96 --> 4165.34] her -[4165.34 --> 4166.22] and he -[4166.22 --> 4166.50] loves -[4166.50 --> 4166.84] her -[4166.84 --> 4167.24] and he -[4167.24 --> 4167.84] includes -[4167.84 --> 4168.30] her -[4168.30 --> 4169.06] in the -[4169.06 --> 4169.38] kingdom -[4169.38 --> 4171.42] Jesus -[4171.42 --> 4172.12] does this -[4172.12 --> 4172.64] you can read -[4172.64 --> 4172.98] it in the -[4172.98 --> 4173.56] gospel stories -[4173.56 --> 4174.38] he goes -[4174.38 --> 4174.94] out into -[4174.94 --> 4175.52] the region -[4175.52 --> 4175.88] called -[4175.88 --> 4176.36] the -[4176.36 --> 4178.68] decapolis -[4178.68 --> 4179.10] sorry -[4179.10 --> 4179.90] the decapolis -[4179.90 --> 4180.72] which is the -[4180.72 --> 4181.10] region of -[4181.10 --> 4181.72] ten cities -[4181.72 --> 4182.06] these are -[4182.06 --> 4182.44] ten -[4182.44 --> 4183.52] gentile -[4183.52 --> 4183.88] that is -[4183.88 --> 4184.72] non-believing -[4184.72 --> 4185.12] pagan -[4185.12 --> 4185.58] cities -[4185.58 --> 4186.28] outside -[4186.28 --> 4187.28] of the -[4187.28 --> 4188.50] area -[4188.50 --> 4189.10] of -[4189.10 --> 4190.02] Israel -[4190.02 --> 4190.48] there -[4190.48 --> 4191.56] and he -[4191.56 --> 4191.88] goes -[4191.88 --> 4192.22] and he -[4192.22 --> 4192.56] preaches -[4192.56 --> 4193.00] to these -[4193.00 --> 4193.50] gentile -[4193.50 --> 4193.96] nations -[4193.96 --> 4194.44] and every -[4194.44 --> 4194.74] time -[4194.74 --> 4194.92] his -[4194.92 --> 4195.28] disciples -[4195.28 --> 4195.58] are like -[4195.58 --> 4195.92] why do -[4195.92 --> 4196.20] you go -[4196.20 --> 4196.50] there -[4196.50 --> 4197.24] they're -[4197.24 --> 4197.48] not -[4197.48 --> 4197.76] of -[4197.76 --> 4198.26] us -[4198.26 --> 4199.38] and -[4199.38 --> 4199.56] Jesus -[4199.56 --> 4199.78] says -[4199.78 --> 4199.98] I'm -[4199.98 --> 4200.24] going -[4200.24 --> 4200.66] there -[4200.66 --> 4201.38] because -[4201.38 --> 4201.60] my -[4201.60 --> 4201.90] message -[4201.90 --> 4202.14] is -[4202.14 --> 4202.30] for -[4202.30 --> 4202.50] more -[4202.50 --> 4202.68] than -[4202.68 --> 4202.94] just -[4202.94 --> 4203.22] you -[4203.22 --> 4204.50] they -[4204.50 --> 4205.06] presume -[4205.06 --> 4205.92] to -[4205.92 --> 4206.16] limit -[4206.16 --> 4206.38] the -[4206.38 --> 4206.74] scope -[4206.74 --> 4206.98] of -[4206.98 --> 4207.38] God's -[4207.38 --> 4207.82] mercy -[4207.82 --> 4208.58] and -[4208.58 --> 4208.82] Jesus -[4208.82 --> 4209.12] says -[4209.12 --> 4209.42] no -[4209.42 --> 4211.06] likewise -[4211.06 --> 4211.46] every -[4211.46 --> 4211.82] time -[4211.82 --> 4212.16] Jesus -[4212.16 --> 4212.56] eats -[4212.56 --> 4212.78] with -[4212.78 --> 4213.50] prostitutes -[4213.50 --> 4213.92] or with -[4213.92 --> 4214.20] tax -[4214.20 --> 4214.68] collectors -[4214.68 --> 4215.24] every -[4215.24 --> 4215.56] time -[4215.56 --> 4215.86] Jesus -[4215.86 --> 4216.24] calls -[4216.24 --> 4216.80] children -[4216.80 --> 4217.54] to -[4217.54 --> 4217.80] him -[4217.80 --> 4217.92] and -[4217.92 --> 4218.06] the -[4218.06 --> 4218.44] disciples -[4218.44 --> 4218.68] say -[4218.68 --> 4218.84] no -[4218.84 --> 4219.04] get -[4219.04 --> 4219.22] them -[4219.22 --> 4219.56] away -[4219.56 --> 4220.02] Jesus -[4220.02 --> 4220.24] says -[4220.24 --> 4220.44] no -[4220.44 --> 4220.72] come -[4220.72 --> 4220.92] to -[4220.92 --> 4221.24] me -[4221.24 --> 4223.22] and -[4223.22 --> 4223.46] again -[4223.46 --> 4224.50] in -[4224.50 --> 4224.62] the -[4224.62 --> 4224.96] gospel -[4224.96 --> 4225.22] of -[4225.22 --> 4225.56] Mark -[4225.56 --> 4226.28] you -[4226.28 --> 4226.44] see -[4226.44 --> 4226.66] this -[4226.66 --> 4227.12] exact -[4227.12 --> 4227.62] thing -[4227.62 --> 4228.16] happening -[4228.16 --> 4228.84] it -[4228.84 --> 4229.08] is -[4229.08 --> 4229.92] the -[4229.92 --> 4230.96] Jewish -[4230.96 --> 4231.46] people -[4231.46 --> 4231.68] the -[4231.68 --> 4232.08] leaders -[4232.08 --> 4232.66] and -[4232.66 --> 4232.82] the -[4232.82 --> 4233.16] people -[4233.16 --> 4233.60] all -[4233.60 --> 4233.84] who -[4233.84 --> 4234.00] are -[4234.00 --> 4234.34] shouting -[4234.34 --> 4235.00] crucify -[4235.00 --> 4235.32] him -[4235.32 --> 4235.90] crucify -[4235.90 --> 4236.26] him -[4236.26 --> 4236.90] during -[4236.90 --> 4237.14] their -[4237.14 --> 4237.64] trial -[4237.64 --> 4238.06] during -[4238.06 --> 4238.52] the trial -[4238.52 --> 4238.72] of -[4238.72 --> 4239.02] Jesus -[4239.02 --> 4239.50] and -[4239.50 --> 4239.66] when -[4239.66 --> 4239.98] Jesus -[4239.98 --> 4240.28] is -[4240.28 --> 4240.58] taken -[4240.58 --> 4240.76] to -[4240.76 --> 4240.92] the -[4240.92 --> 4241.26] cross -[4241.26 --> 4241.40] and -[4241.40 --> 4241.54] he -[4241.54 --> 4241.98] breathes -[4241.98 --> 4242.18] his -[4242.18 --> 4242.58] last -[4242.58 --> 4243.00] and -[4243.00 --> 4243.12] it -[4243.12 --> 4243.30] is -[4243.30 --> 4243.58] done -[4243.58 --> 4243.76] the -[4243.76 --> 4244.04] temple -[4244.04 --> 4244.42] curtain -[4244.42 --> 4244.60] is -[4244.60 --> 4244.90] torn -[4244.90 --> 4245.10] in -[4245.10 --> 4245.36] two -[4245.36 --> 4245.84] it -[4245.84 --> 4245.98] is -[4245.98 --> 4246.24] a -[4246.24 --> 4246.68] Roman -[4246.68 --> 4247.84] centurion -[4247.84 --> 4249.32] who -[4249.32 --> 4249.70] says -[4249.70 --> 4250.34] surely -[4250.34 --> 4251.32] this -[4251.32 --> 4251.82] man -[4251.82 --> 4252.40] was -[4252.40 --> 4252.62] the -[4252.62 --> 4252.98] son -[4252.98 --> 4253.46] of -[4253.46 --> 4253.88] God -[4253.88 --> 4258.78] your -[4258.78 --> 4259.56] expectations -[4259.56 --> 4260.72] of who -[4260.72 --> 4260.96] should -[4260.96 --> 4261.20] make -[4261.20 --> 4261.44] this -[4261.44 --> 4262.06] recognition -[4262.06 --> 4263.48] totally -[4263.48 --> 4264.52] blown -[4264.52 --> 4264.92] apart -[4264.92 --> 4267.62] God's -[4267.62 --> 4268.22] sovereign -[4268.22 --> 4268.98] choice -[4268.98 --> 4269.70] is -[4269.70 --> 4270.10] better -[4270.10 --> 4271.92] is -[4271.92 --> 4273.02] better -[4273.02 --> 4274.30] God's -[4274.30 --> 4274.80] action -[4274.80 --> 4275.38] in the -[4275.38 --> 4275.78] world -[4275.78 --> 4276.08] is -[4276.08 --> 4276.60] bigger -[4276.60 --> 4277.10] than -[4277.10 --> 4277.58] your -[4277.58 --> 4278.66] preferences -[4278.66 --> 4280.96] and -[4280.96 --> 4281.28] as you -[4281.28 --> 4281.60] go -[4281.60 --> 4282.12] into -[4282.12 --> 4282.38] this -[4282.38 --> 4282.76] week -[4282.76 --> 4285.90] I'll -[4285.90 --> 4286.30] leave -[4286.30 --> 4286.44] you -[4286.44 --> 4286.62] with -[4286.62 --> 4286.98] this -[4286.98 --> 4288.26] reflection -[4288.26 --> 4290.72] part -[4290.72 --> 4291.08] of where -[4291.08 --> 4291.44] all this -[4291.44 --> 4291.74] comes -[4291.74 --> 4292.30] together -[4292.30 --> 4293.58] part -[4293.58 --> 4293.90] of the -[4293.90 --> 4294.24] story -[4294.24 --> 4294.44] of -[4294.44 --> 4294.74] Jonah -[4294.74 --> 4295.08] that -[4295.08 --> 4295.54] we -[4295.54 --> 4295.72] are -[4295.72 --> 4296.68] focusing -[4296.68 --> 4296.90] on -[4296.90 --> 4297.08] here -[4297.08 --> 4297.38] in this -[4297.38 --> 4297.84] question -[4297.84 --> 4298.88] leaves -[4298.88 --> 4299.30] us -[4299.30 --> 4299.72] with -[4299.72 --> 4299.98] the -[4299.98 --> 4300.64] disturbing -[4300.64 --> 4301.62] possibility -[4301.62 --> 4303.42] that having -[4303.42 --> 4303.98] pledged -[4303.98 --> 4304.66] our lives -[4304.66 --> 4305.28] to God -[4305.28 --> 4306.88] we could -[4306.88 --> 4307.46] spend -[4307.46 --> 4308.40] as much -[4308.40 --> 4309.18] of that -[4309.18 --> 4309.80] life -[4309.80 --> 4310.86] avoiding -[4310.86 --> 4311.80] the -[4311.80 --> 4312.16] God -[4312.16 --> 4312.50] that we -[4312.50 --> 4312.92] set out -[4312.92 --> 4313.40] to serve -[4313.40 --> 4315.64] having -[4315.64 --> 4316.16] pledged -[4316.16 --> 4316.62] our lives -[4316.62 --> 4317.04] to God -[4317.04 --> 4317.48] calling -[4317.48 --> 4318.06] ourselves -[4318.06 --> 4318.88] Christians -[4318.88 --> 4319.38] calling -[4319.38 --> 4319.70] him -[4319.70 --> 4320.14] his -[4320.14 --> 4320.56] followers -[4320.56 --> 4321.48] we might -[4321.48 --> 4322.02] be fleeing -[4322.02 --> 4322.46] to our -[4322.46 --> 4322.70] own -[4322.70 --> 4323.16] Tarshish -[4323.16 --> 4323.46] because -[4323.46 --> 4323.94] we don't -[4323.94 --> 4324.28] like -[4324.28 --> 4324.74] what -[4324.74 --> 4325.14] God -[4325.14 --> 4325.88] is -[4325.88 --> 4326.22] doing -[4326.22 --> 4329.30] open -[4329.30 --> 4329.64] your -[4329.64 --> 4330.28] eyes -[4330.28 --> 4331.30] and -[4331.30 --> 4331.98] see -[4331.98 --> 4332.52] the -[4332.52 --> 4332.88] one -[4332.88 --> 4333.34] true -[4333.34 --> 4333.82] God -[4333.82 --> 4334.12] the -[4334.12 --> 4334.66] Lord -[4334.66 --> 4335.28] at -[4335.28 --> 4336.02] work -[4336.02 --> 4336.72] in -[4336.72 --> 4337.06] this -[4337.06 --> 4337.38] world -[4337.38 --> 4337.84] not -[4337.84 --> 4338.54] necessarily -[4338.54 --> 4338.94] in -[4338.94 --> 4339.22] your -[4339.22 --> 4340.00] expectations -[4340.00 --> 4340.92] but -[4340.92 --> 4341.40] in -[4341.40 --> 4341.84] line -[4341.84 --> 4342.16] with -[4342.16 --> 4342.78] his -[4342.78 --> 4344.00] character -[4344.00 --> 4345.24] and -[4345.24 --> 4345.40] I -[4345.40 --> 4345.80] promise -[4345.80 --> 4346.82] you -[4346.82 --> 4347.20] will -[4347.20 --> 4347.64] be -[4347.64 --> 4348.98] amazed -[4348.98 --> 4350.22] and -[4350.22 --> 4350.38] I -[4350.38 --> 4350.76] promise -[4350.76 --> 4351.06] in -[4351.06 --> 4351.32] that -[4351.32 --> 4351.96] amazement -[4351.96 --> 4352.64] you -[4352.64 --> 4353.04] will -[4353.04 --> 4353.42] want -[4353.42 --> 4354.02] nothing -[4354.02 --> 4354.50] more -[4354.50 --> 4354.72] than -[4354.72 --> 4354.94] to -[4354.94 --> 4355.68] worship -[4355.68 --> 4356.78] our -[4356.78 --> 4357.82] God -[4357.82 --> 4358.66] amen -[4358.66 --> 4360.40] let's -[4360.40 --> 4360.62] pray -[4360.62 --> 4366.36] holy -[4366.36 --> 4366.92] God -[4366.92 --> 4367.36] and -[4367.36 --> 4367.92] heavenly -[4367.92 --> 4368.98] father -[4368.98 --> 4369.42] as -[4369.42 --> 4369.96] you -[4369.96 --> 4370.56] sent -[4370.56 --> 4371.14] Jonah -[4371.14 --> 4372.04] you -[4372.04 --> 4372.26] have -[4372.26 --> 4372.66] sent -[4372.66 --> 4373.52] Jesus -[4373.52 --> 4375.54] and as -[4375.54 --> 4375.88] Jesus -[4375.88 --> 4376.58] sent -[4376.58 --> 4377.18] his -[4377.18 --> 4377.68] 12 -[4377.68 --> 4378.24] disciples -[4378.24 --> 4378.76] and -[4378.76 --> 4379.00] the -[4379.00 --> 4379.54] 72 -[4379.54 --> 4380.48] out -[4380.48 --> 4380.82] he -[4380.82 --> 4381.26] now -[4381.26 --> 4381.84] sends -[4381.84 --> 4382.36] us -[4382.36 --> 4382.74] in -[4382.74 --> 4382.88] the -[4382.88 --> 4383.22] power -[4383.22 --> 4383.62] of the -[4383.62 --> 4383.90] spirit -[4383.90 --> 4384.48] to -[4384.48 --> 4385.00] proclaim -[4385.00 --> 4385.58] that -[4385.58 --> 4386.20] same -[4386.20 --> 4386.90] message -[4386.90 --> 4387.28] that -[4387.28 --> 4387.60] you -[4387.60 --> 4387.96] are -[4387.96 --> 4388.48] gracious -[4388.48 --> 4389.26] and -[4389.26 --> 4389.82] compassionate -[4389.82 --> 4390.10] that -[4390.10 --> 4390.36] you -[4390.36 --> 4390.58] are -[4390.58 --> 4391.12] slow -[4391.12 --> 4391.40] to -[4391.40 --> 4391.84] anger -[4391.84 --> 4392.42] and -[4392.42 --> 4393.10] abounding -[4393.10 --> 4393.40] in -[4393.40 --> 4393.76] love -[4393.76 --> 4395.42] and -[4395.42 --> 4395.58] that -[4395.58 --> 4395.96] you -[4395.96 --> 4398.08] upon -[4398.08 --> 4398.48] seeing -[4398.48 --> 4398.74] a -[4398.74 --> 4399.08] broken -[4399.08 --> 4399.72] and -[4399.72 --> 4400.40] contrite -[4400.40 --> 4401.04] spirit -[4401.04 --> 4402.58] on -[4402.58 --> 4402.94] seeing -[4402.94 --> 4403.24] a -[4403.24 --> 4403.50] heart -[4403.50 --> 4403.70] of -[4403.70 --> 4404.22] stone -[4404.22 --> 4404.72] turned -[4404.72 --> 4404.98] into -[4404.98 --> 4405.14] a -[4405.14 --> 4405.34] heart -[4405.34 --> 4405.58] of -[4405.58 --> 4405.96] flesh -[4405.96 --> 4406.50] by -[4406.50 --> 4406.84] your -[4406.84 --> 4407.28] own -[4407.28 --> 4407.74] work -[4407.74 --> 4408.06] in -[4408.06 --> 4408.26] the -[4408.26 --> 4408.60] world -[4408.60 --> 4408.96] through -[4408.96 --> 4409.24] the -[4409.24 --> 4409.54] power -[4409.54 --> 4409.78] of -[4409.78 --> 4409.96] your -[4409.96 --> 4410.32] word -[4410.32 --> 4410.74] and -[4410.74 --> 4410.92] the -[4410.92 --> 4411.40] activity -[4411.40 --> 4411.86] of -[4411.86 --> 4412.10] the -[4412.10 --> 4412.50] spirit -[4412.50 --> 4412.78] that -[4412.78 --> 4413.36] you -[4413.36 --> 4414.12] do -[4414.12 --> 4414.82] relent -[4414.82 --> 4415.48] from -[4415.48 --> 4416.18] calamity -[4416.18 --> 4418.18] and -[4418.18 --> 4418.44] so -[4418.44 --> 4418.74] God -[4418.74 --> 4419.14] send -[4419.14 --> 4419.42] us -[4419.42 --> 4419.82] out -[4419.82 --> 4420.60] as -[4420.60 --> 4421.50] prophets -[4421.50 --> 4422.34] and -[4422.34 --> 4423.14] as -[4423.14 --> 4424.08] missionaries -[4424.08 --> 4424.60] send -[4424.60 --> 4424.88] us -[4424.88 --> 4425.24] out -[4425.24 --> 4425.88] to -[4425.88 --> 4426.52] worship -[4426.52 --> 4427.64] you -[4427.64 --> 4428.88] send -[4428.88 --> 4429.12] us -[4429.12 --> 4429.44] out -[4429.44 --> 4430.72] amazed -[4430.72 --> 4431.14] by -[4431.14 --> 4431.60] where -[4431.60 --> 4432.00] we -[4432.00 --> 4432.44] will -[4432.44 --> 4433.10] see -[4433.10 --> 4433.36] you -[4433.36 --> 4433.94] in -[4433.94 --> 4434.04] the -[4434.04 --> 4434.16] name -[4434.16 --> 4434.30] of -[4434.30 --> 4434.48] Jesus -[4434.48 --> 4434.86] Christ -[4434.86 --> 4435.06] we -[4435.06 --> 4435.34] pray -[4435.34 --> 4436.44] amen -[4436.44 --> 4449.38] please -[4449.38 --> 4449.68] stand -[4449.68 --> 4450.08] with us -[4450.08 --> 4450.44] as we -[4450.44 --> 4450.70] sing -[4450.70 --> 4458.32] God -[4458.32 --> 4458.86] be -[4458.86 --> 4460.02] merciful -[4460.02 --> 4463.14] to me -[4463.14 --> 4464.26] on -[4464.26 --> 4464.84] your -[4464.84 --> 4465.66] grace -[4465.66 --> 4467.06] I rest -[4467.06 --> 4468.60] my plea -[4468.60 --> 4469.88] my -[4469.88 --> 4472.02] transgressions -[4472.02 --> 4472.66] I -[4472.66 --> 4474.34] confess -[4474.34 --> 4475.50] grief -[4475.50 --> 4476.82] and guilt -[4476.82 --> 4478.30] my soul -[4478.30 --> 4479.22] oppress -[4479.22 --> 4481.74] wash me -[4481.74 --> 4483.12] make me -[4483.12 --> 4484.12] pure -[4484.12 --> 4485.66] with him -[4485.66 --> 4486.96] cleanse -[4486.96 --> 4487.58] oh -[4487.58 --> 4488.34] cleanse -[4488.34 --> 4488.92] me -[4488.92 --> 4489.80] from -[4489.80 --> 4490.54] my -[4490.54 --> 4492.14] sin -[4492.14 --> 4494.66] God -[4494.66 --> 4496.60] my -[4496.60 --> 4497.70] heart -[4497.70 --> 4498.54] renew -[4498.54 --> 4500.32] make -[4500.32 --> 4500.96] my -[4500.96 --> 4501.94] spirit -[4501.94 --> 4503.32] right -[4503.32 --> 4504.00] and -[4504.00 --> 4504.78] true -[4504.78 --> 4506.30] in -[4506.30 --> 4506.86] your -[4506.86 --> 4507.86] presence -[4507.86 --> 4509.68] let me -[4509.68 --> 4510.92] stay -[4510.92 --> 4511.98] for -[4511.98 --> 4512.66] your -[4512.66 --> 4513.66] spirit -[4513.66 --> 4514.92] show -[4514.92 --> 4515.46] the -[4515.46 --> 4516.66] way -[4516.66 --> 4517.84] your -[4517.84 --> 4519.52] salvation -[4519.52 --> 4521.10] joy -[4521.10 --> 4522.84] impart -[4522.84 --> 4524.70] steadfast -[4524.70 --> 4525.46] make -[4525.46 --> 4526.20] my -[4526.20 --> 4527.24] willing -[4527.24 --> 4529.52] heart -[4529.52 --> 4532.04] until -[4532.04 --> 4533.48] sinners -[4533.48 --> 4534.42] be -[4534.42 --> 4536.04] restored -[4536.04 --> 4537.84] and -[4537.84 --> 4538.68] return -[4538.68 --> 4539.94] to -[4539.94 --> 4540.62] you -[4540.62 --> 4541.40] there -[4541.40 --> 4542.66] Lord -[4542.66 --> 4543.84] save -[4543.84 --> 4544.62] your -[4544.62 --> 4545.36] home -[4545.36 --> 4546.74] and guilt -[4546.74 --> 4548.04] remove -[4548.04 --> 4549.76] and -[4549.76 --> 4550.42] my -[4550.42 --> 4551.14] tongue -[4551.14 --> 4551.92] shall -[4551.92 --> 4552.74] sing -[4552.74 --> 4553.42] your -[4553.42 --> 4554.62] love -[4554.62 --> 4555.86] touch -[4555.86 --> 4556.54] my -[4556.54 --> 4557.50] silent -[4557.50 --> 4559.20] lips -[4559.20 --> 4559.78] oh -[4559.78 --> 4560.82] Lord -[4560.82 --> 4562.04] and -[4562.04 --> 4562.80] my -[4562.80 --> 4563.56] mouth -[4563.56 --> 4564.36] shall -[4564.36 --> 4565.36] praise -[4565.36 --> 4566.56] accord -[4566.56 --> 4575.36] as -[4575.36 --> 4575.74] you -[4575.74 --> 4576.38] go -[4576.38 --> 4577.24] know -[4577.24 --> 4577.60] that -[4577.60 --> 4577.88] you -[4577.88 --> 4578.26] go -[4578.26 --> 4578.78] with -[4578.78 --> 4579.34] God -[4579.34 --> 4579.92] and -[4579.92 --> 4580.12] that -[4580.12 --> 4580.38] God -[4580.38 --> 4580.78] goes -[4580.78 --> 4581.48] before -[4581.48 --> 4581.76] you -[4581.76 --> 4582.84] know -[4582.84 --> 4583.06] that -[4583.06 --> 4583.32] God -[4583.32 --> 4583.96] blesses -[4583.96 --> 4584.20] you -[4584.20 --> 4584.50] for -[4584.50 --> 4584.66] the -[4584.66 --> 4584.88] journey -[4584.88 --> 4585.10] of -[4585.10 --> 4585.38] life -[4585.38 --> 4585.70] and -[4585.70 --> 4586.06] faith -[4586.06 --> 4586.84] ahead -[4586.84 --> 4587.94] before -[4587.94 --> 4588.16] we -[4588.16 --> 4588.52] receive -[4588.52 --> 4588.72] the -[4588.72 --> 4589.16] blessing -[4589.16 --> 4589.74] just -[4589.74 --> 4589.90] a -[4589.90 --> 4590.24] reminder -[4590.24 --> 4590.48] that -[4590.48 --> 4590.60] we -[4590.60 --> 4590.82] will -[4590.82 --> 4591.12] be -[4591.12 --> 4591.64] meeting -[4591.64 --> 4592.04] here -[4592.04 --> 4592.76] after -[4592.76 --> 4593.30] fellowship -[4593.30 --> 4593.76] time -[4593.76 --> 4594.08] to -[4594.08 --> 4594.38] hear -[4594.38 --> 4594.66] from -[4594.66 --> 4594.94] those -[4594.94 --> 4595.08] who -[4595.08 --> 4595.24] went -[4595.24 --> 4595.38] on -[4595.38 --> 4595.48] the -[4595.48 --> 4595.76] Mexico -[4595.76 --> 4596.08] mission -[4596.08 --> 4596.34] trip -[4596.34 --> 4597.18] as -[4597.18 --> 4597.48] well -[4597.48 --> 4597.78] if -[4597.78 --> 4598.02] you -[4598.02 --> 4598.26] would -[4598.26 --> 4598.58] like -[4598.58 --> 4599.34] to -[4599.34 --> 4599.86] receive -[4599.86 --> 4600.34] prayer -[4600.34 --> 4600.62] or -[4600.62 --> 4600.86] to -[4600.86 --> 4601.28] pray -[4601.28 --> 4601.72] with -[4601.72 --> 4602.36] someone -[4602.36 --> 4603.16] there -[4603.16 --> 4603.32] is -[4603.32 --> 4603.54] someone -[4603.54 --> 4603.92] available -[4603.92 --> 4604.18] for -[4604.18 --> 4604.38] that -[4604.38 --> 4604.54] and -[4604.54 --> 4604.66] they -[4604.66 --> 4604.88] will -[4604.88 --> 4605.16] make -[4605.16 --> 4605.34] their -[4605.34 --> 4605.58] way -[4605.58 --> 4605.82] up -[4605.82 --> 4606.08] here -[4606.08 --> 4606.26] to -[4606.26 --> 4606.42] the -[4606.42 --> 4606.68] front -[4606.68 --> 4607.32] following -[4607.32 --> 4607.84] worship -[4607.84 --> 4608.08] they -[4608.08 --> 4608.24] have -[4608.24 --> 4608.44] a -[4608.44 --> 4608.76] yellow -[4608.76 --> 4609.16] name -[4609.16 --> 4609.44] tag -[4609.44 --> 4609.72] on -[4609.72 --> 4610.26] they -[4610.26 --> 4610.38] would -[4610.38 --> 4610.48] love -[4610.48 --> 4610.62] to -[4610.62 --> 4610.78] meet -[4610.78 --> 4610.92] with -[4610.92 --> 4611.18] you -[4611.18 --> 4611.60] and -[4611.60 --> 4611.96] pray -[4611.96 --> 4612.72] for -[4612.72 --> 4612.90] you -[4612.90 --> 4613.26] together -[4613.26 --> 4614.62] and -[4614.62 --> 4615.06] lastly -[4615.06 --> 4615.52] don't -[4615.52 --> 4615.82] forget -[4615.82 --> 4616.18] about -[4616.18 --> 4616.46] the -[4616.46 --> 4616.88] prayer -[4616.88 --> 4617.38] cards -[4617.38 --> 4617.94] in -[4617.94 --> 4618.04] the -[4618.04 --> 4618.32] back -[4618.32 --> 4619.04] put -[4619.04 --> 4619.30] those -[4619.30 --> 4619.48] to -[4619.48 --> 4619.80] use -[4619.80 --> 4620.40] together -[4620.40 --> 4621.60] receive -[4621.60 --> 4622.10] God's -[4622.10 --> 4622.76] blessing -[4622.76 --> 4624.98] God -[4624.98 --> 4625.18] go -[4625.18 --> 4625.58] before -[4625.58 --> 4625.92] you -[4625.92 --> 4626.68] to -[4626.68 --> 4626.98] lead -[4626.98 --> 4627.24] you -[4627.24 --> 4628.40] God -[4628.40 --> 4628.56] go -[4628.56 --> 4628.94] behind -[4628.94 --> 4629.28] you -[4629.28 --> 4629.52] to -[4629.52 --> 4629.88] protect -[4629.88 --> 4630.16] you -[4630.16 --> 4631.28] God -[4631.28 --> 4631.50] go -[4631.50 --> 4631.88] beneath -[4631.88 --> 4632.22] you -[4632.22 --> 4632.50] to -[4632.50 --> 4632.88] support -[4632.88 --> 4633.18] you -[4633.18 --> 4634.04] and -[4634.04 --> 4634.32] God -[4634.32 --> 4634.50] go -[4634.50 --> 4635.02] beside -[4635.02 --> 4635.40] you -[4635.40 --> 4635.86] to -[4635.86 --> 4636.24] befriend -[4636.24 --> 4636.52] you -[4636.52 --> 4637.12] do -[4637.12 --> 4637.48] not -[4637.48 --> 4638.00] be -[4638.00 --> 4638.60] afraid -[4638.60 --> 4639.30] let -[4639.30 --> 4639.42] the -[4639.42 --> 4639.74] blessing -[4639.74 --> 4639.94] of -[4639.94 --> 4640.18] God -[4640.18 --> 4640.40] come -[4640.40 --> 4640.68] upon -[4640.68 --> 4640.84] you -[4640.84 --> 4641.10] today -[4641.10 --> 4641.38] do -[4641.38 --> 4641.76] not -[4641.76 --> 4642.22] be -[4642.22 --> 4642.88] afraid -[4642.88 --> 4643.66] but -[4643.66 --> 4644.00] go -[4644.00 --> 4644.88] in -[4644.88 --> 4645.38] peace -[4645.38 --> 4645.90] to -[4645.90 --> 4646.30] love -[4646.30 --> 4646.96] and -[4646.96 --> 4647.42] serve -[4647.42 --> 4648.04] the -[4648.04 --> 4648.34] Lord -[4648.34 --> 4650.08] Amen -[4650.08 --> 4653.60] mon -[4653.60 --> 4654.24] god -[4654.24 --> 4671.00] y -[4671.00 --> 4671.36] anything -[4671.36 --> 4687.38] From everlasting to everlasting -[4687.38 --> 4693.76] You are God -[4693.76 --> 4701.72] From everlasting to everlasting -[4701.72 --> 4708.16] You are God -[4708.16 --> 4713.32] In holiness you stand secure -[4713.32 --> 4717.20] Through culture shifting sands -[4717.20 --> 4723.10] And changed by all the vanities of man -[4723.10 --> 4728.22] And as the nations rise and fall -[4728.22 --> 4731.82] Your sovereignty remains -[4731.82 --> 4737.82] You are, you are -[4737.82 --> 4744.78] You are the one true God -[4744.78 --> 4752.44] From everlasting to everlasting -[4752.44 --> 4759.50] You are God -[4759.50 --> 4766.74] From everlasting to everlasting -[4766.74 --> 4773.22] You are God -[4773.22 --> 4778.34] In faithfulness your love extends -[4778.34 --> 4780.82] Through times of turbulence -[4780.82 --> 4788.34] Adopting those who call upon your name -[4788.34 --> 4793.46] And every generation joins -[4793.46 --> 4796.58] Songs of grateful praise -[4796.58 --> 4802.18] You are, you are -[4802.18 --> 4809.46] You are the one true God -[4809.46 --> 4816.78] From everlasting to everlasting -[4816.78 --> 4822.18] You are God -[4822.18 --> 4830.76] From everlasting to everlasting -[4830.76 --> 4836.84] You are God -[4836.84 --> 4840.28] Eternal -[4840.28 --> 4843.50] Immortal -[4843.50 --> 4847.50] Invisible -[4847.50 --> 4850.56] God -[4850.56 --> 4854.50] Eternal -[4854.50 --> 4857.50] Immortal -[4857.50 --> 4859.50] Invisible -[4859.50 --> 4880.12] God -[4880.12 --> 4894.12] Eternal, immortal, invisible God. -[4894.12 --> 4909.12] From everlasting to everlasting, you are God. -[4910.12 --> 4924.12] From everlasting to everlasting, you are God. -[4924.12 --> 4932.12] You are God. -[4940.12 --> 4950.12] You are God. -[4950.12 --> 4952.12] You are God. -[4952.12 --> 4956.12] You are God. -[4956.12 --> 4958.12] You are God. -[4958.12 --> 4960.12] You are God. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - April 24, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - April 24, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 02bf5f595842188cf2e3aa5f0f7e9241ead2720f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - April 24, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,152 +0,0 @@ -• The power of God's love to free from guilt, shame, and low self-worth -• Miracles and hope in difficult times -• Feeling loved, strong, and held by God despite feelings of weakness or inadequacy -• Believing in one's identity and worth as defined by God -• Laying down past struggles and trust in God's presence and love -• The speaker expresses trust and faith in God despite feeling weak or falling short -• The theme of the service is Gems Sunday, with a focus on the ladies wearing pink -• The sermon will explore this year's theme, involving input from the Gems team -• Announcements are made about upcoming events, including Youth Night and Treat Tag -• The pastor invites everyone to rise and receive God's greeting, referencing Revelation 1 -• Praise and worship of God -• The joy and strength found in following God -• The greatness and awesomeness of God -• The earth being filled with God's glory -• Trusting in God's name and power -• Acknowledging God as the Ancient of Days, all-powerful and eternal -• Overcoming fear and uncertainty through faith in God -• The Ancient of Days and the glory of God -• Reference to 2 Timothy 1:9-10, salvation and holy living through Jesus Christ -• Love that came for humanity, breaking shame and sinfulness -• Faithfulness, truth, and freedom in Jesus Christ -• Worship themes including strength, sin broken, salvation, and resurrection -• God's promises and unbreakable covenant with believers -• Identity in Christ and being called children of God -• Strength, courage, and absence of fear due to God's presence -• Forgiveness and repentance through confession -• Being a world changer and fulfilling one's purpose -• Offerings for the church budget and Gems ministry -• Personal relationship with God and surrendering to His plan -• Writing God's story on one's heart and life -• The speaker asks someone to write their story on their heart -• The speaker references struggles with fear and faith, but knows God is always present -• The speaker invites children forward for a special "Gem Sunday" activity -• The speaker explains what Gems ministry is and shows a video about it -• The speaker announces plans for the rest of the service: children's worship time and a message specifically for Gems -• Congregational prayer led by John, an elder -• Mention of a fragrant offering to the Lord (lilacs) -• Farewell and good wishes for Janet Boat as she moves from the church -• Prayers for the Baumann family after the passing away of Robin's father -• Prayers for the Flores family after the death of Wally -• Congregational prayer for God's blessings, thanks, and guidance -• Prayer for Ukraine and Russia -• Request for peace in the midst of warfare -• Intercession for safety, comfort, and strength for those affected by conflict -• Prayer for leaders to make wise decisions that lead to peace -• Gratitude for church members, their ministry, and blessings -• Prayer for struggling individuals and families -• Intercession for Janet Boot as she leaves the congregation -• Request for safe passage and blessing on her life -• Prayer for other grieving families in the community -• Prayers for the church, its leadership, and Pastor Chris's family -• Nominations for office bearers (elders and deacons) -• Request for guidance and direction in decision-making for the church's leaders -• Request for a blessing on the service -• Introduction of Kevin Lobert as the Youth Pastor leading the Sunday service -• Preparation for a "big reveal" using a colorful board -• Discussion of the church's "Gem Sunday" event -• Reference to a video or announcement that was shown before the speaker began talking -• Mention of a message being shared with the entire church, but primarily targeted at young girls in attendance -• Question for the girls to write down something they worry about and not share it publicly -• Discussion of worries and concerns -• Church survey results shared -• Limitations of Survey Monkey's free version -• Readings from the church's worry survey responses -• Common concerns mentioned in the survey (violence, salvation, health, finances, etc.) -• Worry as a real aspect of life -• Instructions to write down notes during the sermon -• A pause for charades-like acting out of what it means to be worried -• Charades of worry and emotions -• Difficulty portraying worry through acting -• Discussing how different emotions affect the body (shaking, trembling) -• Theme of "unshakeable" and how to achieve it despite experiencing emotions like fear, anger, and sadness -• Reading Psalm 62 as part of exploring this theme -• Reading of Psalm 62 -• Discussion of finding rest in God and salvation from him -• Verse references from Psalm 62:1-8, 6, and the significance of trusting in God as a rock and fortress -• Story of two girls, Evelyn and Meyerlich, who survived an earthquake in Turkey by grabbing onto each other -• Reflection on trusting in God during times of crisis -• The speaker shares a story about two young girls who survived an earthquake and how they found support through a foundation. -• The psalm read in church was written by someone who knew what it meant to be "shaken" due to external threats, but also internal fears. -• The speaker talks about the common human experiences of feeling shaken by emotions such as sadness, loneliness, fear, anxiety, and shame. -• They acknowledge that these feelings are normal and that people will inevitably experience them at some point in their lives. -• The speaker emphasizes the importance of having someone to turn to for help during these times, specifically mentioning God and Jesus. -• Discussion of emotions and how Jesus understands them -• The idea that Jesus can provide a stable foundation in times of uncertainty -• Statistics from the Barna Group about Generation Z being the first post-Christian generation in the West -• Low percentage (4%) of Gen Z adhering to a Biblical worldview -• The speaker discusses the changing beliefs of people in regards to God and spirituality, noting that fewer young people now believe in God compared to older generations. -• The speaker emphasizes the importance of knowing Jesus and having a relationship with him, especially during times of uncertainty or shaking. -• The speaker highlights the love and sacrifice of Jesus through his death on the cross and resurrection from the dead. -• The speaker describes Jesus as a source of peace and stability in life's challenges. -• The speaker mentions that they will be discussing five promises made by God in the Bible. -• Discussion about the length and content of upcoming promises -• Retention vs learning new things -• The importance of remembering and retaining what has been learned -• Jesus is love, and we are loved by God more than we know -• Bible verses from First John 3:1 -• God's knowledge of individuals, including their thoughts and actions -• Discussion of God's love and knowledge -• Introduction to Gems counselors in the church -• Emphasis on the importance and love shown by Gems counselors -• Expression of gratitude towards Gems counselors -• Mention of Jesus' love and forgiveness -• Discussion of sin and mistakes, and the promise of forgiveness -• Discussion of feeling guilty and alone after doing something bad -• Explanation of how forgiveness works through confession and purification -• Reference to 1 John 1:9 and the concept of Jesus forgiving sins -• Description of Jesus' forgiveness as erasing or removing sin entirely -• Discussion of not feeling guilt or shame after being forgiven by Jesus -• The comfort of being forgiven by God -• Overcoming feelings of guilt and shame -• The presence of Jesus in times of loneliness -• The importance of church community in supporting one another -• Recognizing one's calling to be there for others who feel lonely or isolated -• Responsibility to care for and support each other in the church community -• Importance of reaching out to those who are lonely, lost, or struggling -• The spread of loneliness due to individualism and social media use -• Encouragement to look beyond one's own social circle to help others -• The need to assume that someone may be in need of a friend -• A church initiative called "Treat Tag" to bless and show kindness to others -• Jesus' power is not about being strong on one's own -• Recognizing Jesus' victory over the world brings relief from burdens -• One must look to Jesus for strength, not oneself -• With Jesus, believers are strong and can overcome the world -• Believers are world changers, but changing the world involves changing others' worlds -• One should strive for excellence and work hard, but not expect to simply dream things into existence -• Micah 6 verse 8: act justly, love mercy, walk humbly with God -• Importance of taking care of widows and those who feel lonely -• Showing mercy to others in the name of Jesus -• Empowering people through justice and forgiveness -• Walking humbly with God and giving credit for life's things -• The Holy Spirit changing hearts when living a life of love -• Going out of your way to love and help others, including family, friends, and community members -• Recognizing God's presence in daily life and sharing that with others -• Five promises of the gospel message: Jesus' love, death, resurrection, victory over sin and death, and changing the world -• The importance of knowing and remembering the gospel truth -• The need to read the Bible and pray daily -• The transformative power of Jesus' love, forgiveness, and resurrection -• Encouragement to remember God's presence, love, and strength in times of struggle or uncertainty -• A call to go out and change the world based on this knowledge -• A prayer asking for help to remember these truths in everyday life -• Troubled sea and the need for peace -• The Lighthouse as a symbol of guidance and safety -• Trust in God's promise and provision -• Safe to shore, implying salvation and security -• Fire before us, highlighting God's presence and leading -• Storms and darkness, emphasizing God's protection and guidance -• Assurance of eternal life and spiritual transformation -• The speaker repeats a phrase of devotion, stating they belong to God, body and soul -• The repetition emphasizes the speaker's surrender and commitment to their faith -• The mention of "Crec Manson that night" is unclear but may be a name or reference to an event -• The speaker shifts to praying for guidance, asking God to bring them to heaven \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - April 24, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - April 24, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c8f7ce3aecd2d23a0927426c805d7e6eea82d3a3..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - April 24, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2763 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 7.44] Oh, I'm telling you something, this God we believe in, yeah, He changed everything. -[8.00 --> 15.74] No more guilt, no more shame, He took all that away, gave us a reason to sing. -[15.96 --> 23.54] So go ahead and live like you're loved, it's okay to act like you've been set free. -[23.54 --> 31.76] His love has made you more than enough, so go ahead and be who He made you to be. -[32.04 --> 47.96] And live like you're loved, live like you're loved, live like you're loved, live like you're loved. -[47.96 --> 55.76] Live like you're loved, walk like you're free, stand like you know who He made you to be. -[56.26 --> 63.80] Live like you're loved, like you believe, His love is all that you'll ever need. -[63.98 --> 66.98] So go ahead and live like you're loved. -[71.48 --> 75.00] His love has made you more than enough. -[77.96 --> 82.96] So go ahead and live like you're loved. -[83.96 --> 87.54] It's okay to act like you've been set free. -[87.98 --> 90.80] His love has made you more than enough. -[91.76 --> 95.82] So go ahead and be who He made you to be. -[95.82 --> 105.62] And live like you're loved, live like you're loved, live like you're loved, live like you're loved. -[107.96 --> 111.96] Live like you're loved, live like you're loved. -[111.96 --> 119.76] Live like you're loved, walk like you're free, stand like you know who He made you to be. -[119.76 --> 127.78] Live like you're loved, like you believe, His love is all that you'll ever need. -[127.96 --> 130.06] Live like you're loved. -[137.96 --> 150.40] Live like you're loved more. -[150.40 --> 151.96] When you're at the end of the road... -[151.96 --> 156.84] And it's not the one that you would have chosen -[156.84 --> 160.40] When you're at the end of your rope -[160.40 --> 161.92] And you're holding on -[161.92 --> 164.68] But feel like you're falling -[164.68 --> 168.10] With every option exhausted -[168.10 --> 172.26] You tried everything you know -[172.26 --> 176.80] You saw light then you lost it -[176.80 --> 179.90] But there is still hope -[179.90 --> 183.80] Like the fire in the night -[183.80 --> 187.74] Like the ocean parted wide -[187.74 --> 191.56] Like the grave empty inside -[191.56 --> 195.60] You will see he's still dead -[195.60 --> 200.92] Miracles, miracles, miracles -[200.92 --> 207.08] Even if you don't see it now -[207.08 --> 208.80] Without a doubt -[208.80 --> 211.60] He's already moving -[211.60 --> 215.02] There's not a pain that you hold -[215.02 --> 216.60] He doesn't know -[216.60 --> 219.46] And he isn't using -[219.46 --> 222.76] With every option exhausted -[222.76 --> 227.02] You tried everything you know -[227.02 --> 230.80] So reach for something beyond it -[230.80 --> 234.52] Cause he is our hope -[234.52 --> 238.44] Like the fire in the night -[238.44 --> 242.40] Like the ocean parted wide -[242.40 --> 246.26] Like the grave empty inside -[246.26 --> 250.24] You will see he's still dead -[250.24 --> 267.04] Miracles, miracles, miracles -[267.04 --> 269.84] A broken heart can be restored -[269.84 --> 273.26] A broken soul can be reborn -[273.26 --> 274.00] A broken soul can be reborn -[274.00 --> 277.84] And greater things are still in store -[277.84 --> 282.10] For us, for us -[282.10 --> 283.32] Like the fire in the night -[283.32 --> 285.32] Like the fire in the night -[285.32 --> 287.22] Like the fire in the night -[287.22 --> 291.16] Like the ocean parted wide -[291.16 --> 295.04] Like the grave empty inside -[295.04 --> 299.00] You will see he's still dead -[299.00 --> 309.80] Miracles, miracles, miracles -[309.80 --> 311.80] He's still dead -[311.80 --> 313.80] He's still dead -[313.80 --> 314.94] He's still dead -[314.94 --> 315.58] He's still dead -[315.58 --> 316.42] Dungeons, miracles, miracles -[316.42 --> 317.08] You Fruit... -[317.08 --> 334.70] meer的自然 -[334.70 --> 364.68] To be continued... -[364.70 --> 372.80] I keep fighting voices in my mind that say I'm not enough. -[377.94 --> 385.16] Every single lie that tells me I will never measure love. -[385.16 --> 398.08] Am I more than just the sum of every high and every low? -[403.72 --> 411.12] Remind me once again just who I am because I need to know. -[411.12 --> 414.86] Ooh, oh. -[414.86 --> 421.20] You say I'm loved when I can't feel a thing. -[421.20 --> 427.70] You say I'm strong when I think I'm weak. -[427.70 --> 434.20] And you say I'm held when I am falling short. -[434.78 --> 440.88] And when I don't belong, oh, you say I'm yours. -[441.12 --> 444.08] And I believe. -[444.08 --> 444.86] I. -[444.86 --> 446.86] Oh, I believe. -[446.86 --> 447.86] I. -[447.86 --> 450.56] What you say of me. -[450.56 --> 451.56] I. -[451.56 --> 453.36] I believe. -[453.36 --> 455.36] I believe. -[455.36 --> 463.38] The only thing that matters now is everything you think of me. -[463.38 --> 467.78] You say I'm strong when I think I'm weak. -[467.78 --> 475.46] In you I find my worth, in you I find my identity. -[479.54 --> 485.86] You say I am loved when I can't feel a thing. -[486.86 --> 492.52] You say I am strong when I think I'm weak. -[492.52 --> 499.18] And you say I am held when I am falling short. -[499.86 --> 505.66] When I don't belong, oh you say I am yours. -[506.94 --> 515.50] And I believe, oh I believe what you say of me. -[515.50 --> 518.68] Oh I believe. -[522.52 --> 532.36] Taking all I have and now I'm laying it at your feet. -[532.36 --> 543.58] You'll have every failure God, you'll have every victory. -[546.20 --> 554.14] Oh, you say I am loved when I can't feel a thing. -[554.14 --> 560.56] You say I am strong when I think I'm weak. -[561.44 --> 567.18] You say I am held when I am falling short. -[567.92 --> 573.82] When I don't belong, oh you say I'm yours. -[573.82 --> 584.00] And I believe, oh I believe what you say of me. -[584.00 --> 589.66] I believe, oh I believe. -[590.66 --> 597.02] Yes, I believe what you say of me. -[597.02 --> 610.92] I believe, oh I believe. -[610.92 --> 640.90] Thank you. -[640.92 --> 667.44] I'm happy to be in the truth and I will daily lift my hands for I will always sing when your love came down. -[670.92 --> 678.92] I will續 up against Take your mind upon the pain. -[679.68 --> 687.58] Once the turn Зем Brown gives up its balance, you Vater finally give them Bewong Nathan and rich hope for us. -[688.04 --> 689.40] igenis per tekanis dat -[690.22 --> 692.06] u C besides See what -[693.82 --> 697.90] It's also becoming a better way to create. -[697.90 --> 702.50] Over the mountains and the sea -[702.50 --> 705.26] Your river runs with a lock in me -[705.26 --> 710.42] And I will open up my heart and let the healer set me free -[710.42 --> 713.06] I'm happy to be in the truth -[713.06 --> 715.98] And I will daily lift my hands -[715.98 --> 720.36] For I will always sing of when your love can die -[720.36 --> 725.42] I could sing of your love forever -[725.42 --> 730.08] I could sing of your love forever -[730.08 --> 734.96] I could sing of your love forever -[755.42 --> 765.96] Good morning everyone -[765.96 --> 768.46] Try that again -[768.46 --> 770.00] Hey there we go front row -[770.00 --> 770.98] Good morning everyone -[770.98 --> 773.50] That's so much better -[773.50 --> 775.80] Welcome to church this morning -[775.80 --> 777.06] Welcome to you online -[777.06 --> 778.06] Just warning you online -[778.06 --> 779.80] We had some internet problems this morning -[779.80 --> 781.82] Hopefully you can stay with us the whole service -[781.82 --> 783.40] If you cut out that's what it was -[783.40 --> 784.46] We'll record it it'll be fine -[784.46 --> 787.26] Hi everyone welcome to church this morning -[787.26 --> 789.48] It is gems Sunday this morning -[789.48 --> 792.20] So we've got these lovely ladies in the front wearing pink -[792.20 --> 793.52] Those are our gems -[793.52 --> 796.98] The service is going to have a lot of involvement from them this morning -[796.98 --> 800.06] And the sermon as well is going to be about their theme this year -[800.06 --> 802.56] So we're going to be looking at that today -[802.56 --> 804.68] A few announcements this morning -[804.68 --> 806.52] Youth we have 2020 tonight -[806.52 --> 808.38] It's going to happen here at the church at 7 o'clock -[808.38 --> 810.10] So please come on out for that -[810.10 --> 814.46] For the whole church we have one week left of treat tag -[814.46 --> 815.62] And so treat -[815.62 --> 816.56] Yeah there it is -[816.56 --> 818.08] And so treat tag is still happening -[818.08 --> 819.00] You've got one week -[819.00 --> 821.64] If you're a little nervous that you haven't been tagged yet -[821.64 --> 824.30] The solution to those nerves is to go tag someone -[824.30 --> 826.04] It's all about the giving anyway -[826.04 --> 826.92] So go out -[826.92 --> 828.00] Tag some people -[828.00 --> 829.06] Make them feel included -[829.06 --> 830.18] Make them feel loved -[830.18 --> 832.76] We've got one more week to do that officially -[832.76 --> 834.78] And then if you still want to like be nice to people -[834.78 --> 836.30] You can do that after this month is done -[836.30 --> 837.08] That's allowed too -[837.08 --> 839.76] But that's how we've sort of marked off treat tag -[839.76 --> 840.68] And finally -[840.68 --> 842.96] Pastors class is happening real soon -[842.96 --> 844.36] Possibly even next week -[844.36 --> 846.86] If that is something you're interested in joining -[846.86 --> 848.06] Interested in being a part of -[848.06 --> 849.34] You can chat with myself -[849.34 --> 850.54] You can chat -[850.54 --> 853.44] Sign up on the sheet in the foyer there -[853.44 --> 855.68] Or you can talk to Pastor Chris this week as well -[855.68 --> 856.78] And sign up that way -[856.78 --> 858.64] So those are the announcements -[858.64 --> 859.94] I'm going to invite you all now -[859.94 --> 860.94] Please to rise -[860.94 --> 863.70] As you receive God's greeting this morning -[863.70 --> 865.94] This Gems Sunday -[865.94 --> 869.66] God's greeting this morning -[869.66 --> 871.36] Comes from Revelation 1 -[871.36 --> 872.08] Where it says -[872.08 --> 873.82] Grace and peace to you -[873.82 --> 874.98] From him who is -[874.98 --> 876.22] And who was -[876.22 --> 877.22] And who is to come -[877.22 --> 879.02] And from the seven spirits -[879.02 --> 880.40] That are before his throne -[880.40 --> 882.04] And from Jesus Christ -[882.04 --> 883.50] Who is the faithful witness -[883.50 --> 885.14] The firstborn of the dead -[885.14 --> 886.10] And the ruler -[886.10 --> 887.58] The kings of the earth -[887.58 --> 888.98] And all God's people said -[888.98 --> 890.86] Let's worship together -[890.86 --> 894.58] Psalm 16 -[894.58 --> 896.20] Verse 7 to 11 -[896.20 --> 898.48] I will praise the Lord -[898.48 --> 899.54] Who counsels me -[899.54 --> 900.90] Even at night -[900.90 --> 902.30] My heart instructs me -[902.30 --> 904.22] I keep my eyes -[904.22 --> 905.54] Always on the Lord -[905.54 --> 907.96] With him at my right hand -[907.96 --> 909.38] I will not be shaken -[909.38 --> 911.96] Therefore my heart is glad -[911.96 --> 913.54] And my tongue rejoices -[913.54 --> 916.54] My body also will rest secure -[916.54 --> 918.92] Because you will not abandon me -[918.92 --> 920.24] To the realm of the dead -[920.24 --> 922.82] Nor will you let your faithful one -[922.82 --> 923.52] See decay -[923.52 --> 925.58] You make known to me -[925.58 --> 926.66] The path of life -[926.66 --> 928.70] You fill me with joy -[928.70 --> 929.66] In your presence -[929.66 --> 931.38] With eternal pleasures -[931.38 --> 932.82] At your right hand -[932.82 --> 949.24] We stand and lift up our hands -[949.24 --> 952.60] For the joy of the Lord -[952.60 --> 954.42] Is our strength -[954.42 --> 958.58] We bow down -[958.58 --> 961.38] And worship him now -[961.38 --> 962.96] How great -[962.96 --> 965.70] How awesome is he -[965.70 --> 969.40] And together we sing -[969.40 --> 976.02] Everyone sing -[976.02 --> 980.94] Holy is the Lord -[980.94 --> 983.54] God almighty -[983.54 --> 987.84] The earth is filled -[987.84 --> 989.52] With his glory -[989.52 --> 999.54] The earth is filled -[999.54 --> 1001.34] With his glory -[1001.34 --> 1005.52] The earth is filled -[1005.52 --> 1007.20] With his glory -[1007.20 --> 1016.68] We stand and lift up our hands -[1016.68 --> 1020.02] For the joy of the Lord -[1020.02 --> 1021.22] Is our strength -[1021.22 --> 1025.22] We bow down -[1025.22 --> 1028.66] And worship him now -[1028.66 --> 1030.22] How great -[1030.22 --> 1032.98] How awesome is he -[1032.98 --> 1034.98] And together we sing -[1034.98 --> 1035.98] And together we sing -[1035.98 --> 1036.98] And together we sing -[1036.98 --> 1038.98] And together we sing -[1038.98 --> 1039.98] And together we sing -[1039.98 --> 1040.98] Everyone sing -[1040.98 --> 1041.98] Everyone sing -[1041.98 --> 1043.98] Everyone sing -[1043.98 --> 1046.98] Holy is the Lord -[1046.98 --> 1047.98] God almighty -[1047.98 --> 1049.98] The earth is filled -[1049.98 --> 1051.98] With his glory -[1051.98 --> 1053.98] The earth is filled -[1053.98 --> 1055.98] With his glory -[1055.98 --> 1057.98] Holy is the Lord -[1057.98 --> 1059.98] God almighty -[1059.98 --> 1061.98] The earth is filled -[1061.98 --> 1063.98] With his glory -[1063.98 --> 1065.98] The earth is filled -[1065.98 --> 1067.98] With his glory -[1067.98 --> 1070.98] The earth is filled -[1070.98 --> 1071.98] With his glory -[1071.98 --> 1072.98] The earth is filled -[1072.98 --> 1073.98] With his glory -[1073.98 --> 1083.28] And that 다른 -[1083.28 --> 1083.98] IsЛF -[1083.98 --> 1084.98] With his glory -[1084.98 --> 1085.98] With his glory -[1085.98 --> 1086.98] With his glory -[1086.98 --> 1089.88] The Lord's renown -[1089.88 --> 1095.30] It's rising up all around -[1095.30 --> 1102.22] It's the anthem of the Lord's renown -[1102.22 --> 1106.86] And together we sing -[1106.86 --> 1112.62] Everyone sing -[1112.62 --> 1119.90] Holy is the Lord God Almighty -[1119.90 --> 1125.68] The earth is filled with His glory -[1125.68 --> 1131.14] Holy is the Lord God Almighty -[1131.14 --> 1137.08] The earth is filled with His glory -[1137.08 --> 1142.92] The earth is filled with His glory -[1142.92 --> 1155.78] Really Hö ode -[1155.78 --> 1160.26] Tell and serve Him -[1160.26 --> 1183.68] Though the nations rage, kingdoms rise and fall, -[1183.68 --> 1193.42] There is still one King reigning over all, -[1193.82 --> 1203.16] So I will not fear, for this truth remains, -[1203.70 --> 1210.72] That my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1210.72 --> 1221.72] One above Him, none before Him, all of time in His hands, -[1222.02 --> 1228.94] For His throne it shall remain and ever stand. -[1231.18 --> 1238.72] All the power, all the glory, I will trust in His name, -[1238.72 --> 1247.66] For my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1249.06 --> 1258.06] Though the dread of night overwhelms my soul, -[1258.06 --> 1267.00] He is here with me, I am not alone, -[1267.00 --> 1276.40] Oh, His love is sure, and He knows my name, -[1276.40 --> 1285.34] For my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1285.34 --> 1294.42] None above Him, none before Him, all of time in His hands, -[1294.42 --> 1301.42] For His throne it shall remain and ever stand. -[1303.36 --> 1311.60] All the power, all the glory, I will trust in His name, -[1311.60 --> 1318.60] For my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1318.60 --> 1330.60] Though I may not see what the future brings, -[1330.60 --> 1342.70] Though I may not see what the future brings, -[1342.70 --> 1351.70] I will watch and wait for the Savior King, -[1351.70 --> 1360.74] When my joy come near, standing face to face, -[1360.74 --> 1367.74] In the presence of the Ancient of Days. -[1367.74 --> 1368.74] And the presence of the Lord, all of the glory, -[1368.74 --> 1369.74] For my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1369.74 --> 1374.74] And the presence of the Lord, all of the glory, -[1374.74 --> 1383.74] For His throne it shall remain and ever stand. -[1383.74 --> 1394.74] All the power, all the glory, I will trust in His name, -[1394.74 --> 1402.74] For my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1402.74 --> 1411.74] For my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1411.74 --> 1434.74] Our confession and assurance comes from 2 Timothy 1, verses 9 and 10. -[1434.74 --> 1439.74] He has saved us and called us to a holy life, -[1439.74 --> 1442.74] Not because of anything we have done, -[1442.74 --> 1445.74] But because of His own purpose and grace. -[1445.74 --> 1450.74] The grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time. -[1450.74 --> 1455.74] But it has not been revealed through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, -[1455.74 --> 1462.74] But it was, sorry, it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, -[1462.74 --> 1469.74] Who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. -[1469.74 --> 1470.74] The gospel. -[1470.74 --> 1473.74] Oh um- Mu si- lunch. -[1473.74 --> 1475.74] Oh um- say storms. -[1475.74 --> 1476.74] Oh. -[1476.74 --> 1478.74] See you again. -[1478.74 --> 1502.70] There is love that came for us -[1502.70 --> 1507.60] Humble to the sinner's cross -[1507.60 --> 1512.02] You broke my shame and sinfulness -[1512.02 --> 1517.04] You rose again victorious -[1517.04 --> 1529.52] Faithfulness none can deny -[1529.52 --> 1535.02] Through the storm and through the fire -[1535.02 --> 1539.44] There is truth that sets me free -[1539.44 --> 1545.40] Jesus Christ who lives in me -[1545.40 --> 1549.82] You are stronger -[1549.82 --> 1551.82] You are stronger -[1551.82 --> 1554.62] Sin is broken -[1554.62 --> 1557.50] You have saved me -[1557.50 --> 1559.82] It is risen -[1559.82 --> 1562.02] Christ is risen -[1562.02 --> 1568.44] Jesus you are Lord of all -[1568.44 --> 1578.82] No beginning and no end -[1578.82 --> 1584.28] You're my hope and my defense -[1584.28 --> 1589.16] You came to seek and save the loss -[1589.16 --> 1595.58] You did it all upon the cross -[1595.58 --> 1598.78] You are stronger -[1598.78 --> 1601.04] You are stronger -[1601.04 --> 1603.46] Sin is broken -[1603.46 --> 1606.26] You have saved me -[1606.26 --> 1608.54] It is risen -[1608.54 --> 1610.16] Christ is risen -[1610.16 --> 1614.58] Jesus you are Lord of all -[1614.58 --> 1626.28] So let your name be lifted higher -[1626.28 --> 1628.78] Be lifted higher -[1628.78 --> 1631.08] Be lifted higher -[1631.08 --> 1647.50] So let your name be lifted higher -[1647.50 --> 1661.50] higher -[1661.50 --> 1675.50] you are stronger sin is broken you have saved me it is written christ is risen -[1675.50 --> 1689.50] jesus you are lord of all you are stronger you are stronger sin is broken you have saved me -[1689.50 --> 1703.50] it is -[1705.50 --> 1733.50] my hope is built -[1733.50 --> 1745.50] is built on nothing less than jesus blood and righteousness -[1745.50 --> 1751.50] i dare not trust the sweetest frame -[1751.50 --> 1763.50] but holy trust in jesus name -[1763.50 --> 1793.50] -[1793.50 --> 1805.50] is -[1805.50 --> 1835.50] -[1835.50 --> 1865.50] -[1865.50 --> 1895.50] -[1895.50 --> 1925.50] -[1925.50 --> 1955.50] -[1955.50 --> 1967.50] is -[1967.50 --> 1979.50] is -[1979.50 --> 1991.50] is -[1991.50 --> 2003.50] is -[2003.50 --> 2015.50] is -[2015.50 --> 2027.50] is -[2027.50 --> 2039.50] is -[2039.50 --> 2051.50] is -[2051.50 --> 2063.50] is -[2063.50 --> 2075.50] is -[2075.50 --> 2087.50] is -[2087.50 --> 2099.50] is -[2099.50 --> 2111.50] is -[2111.50 --> 2113.50] is -[2113.50 --> 2115.50] is -[2115.50 --> 2125.50] is -[2125.50 --> 2137.50] is -[2137.50 --> 2139.50] is -[2139.50 --> 2141.50] is -[2141.50 --> 2151.50] is -[2151.50 --> 2153.50] is -[2153.50 --> 2165.50] is -[2165.50 --> 2167.50] is -[2167.50 --> 2169.50] is -[2169.50 --> 2179.50] is -[2179.50 --> 2181.50] is -[2181.50 --> 2183.50] is -[2183.50 --> 2193.50] is -[2193.50 --> 2195.50] is -[2195.50 --> 2209.50] is -[2209.50 --> 2211.50] is -[2211.50 --> 2225.50] is -[2225.50 --> 2227.50] is -[2227.50 --> 2229.50] is -[2229.50 --> 2231.50] is -[2231.50 --> 2243.50] is -[2243.50 --> 2245.50] is -[2245.50 --> 2247.50] is -[2247.50 --> 2259.50] is -[2259.50 --> 2261.50] is -[2261.50 --> 2263.50] is -[2263.50 --> 2265.50] is -[2265.50 --> 2267.50] is -[2267.50 --> 2269.50] is -[2269.50 --> 2271.50] is -[2271.50 --> 2273.50] is -[2273.50 --> 2275.50] is -[2275.50 --> 2277.50] is -[2277.50 --> 2279.50] is -[2279.50 --> 2281.50] is -[2281.50 --> 2283.50] is -[2283.50 --> 2295.50] is -[2295.50 --> 2297.50] is -[2297.50 --> 2299.50] is -[2299.50 --> 2301.50] is -[2301.50 --> 2303.50] is -[2303.50 --> 2305.50] is -[2305.50 --> 2307.50] is -[2307.50 --> 2309.50] is -[2309.50 --> 2311.50] is -[2311.50 --> 2313.50] is -[2313.50 --> 2315.50] is -[2315.50 --> 2317.50] is -[2317.50 --> 2319.50] is -[2319.50 --> 2321.50] is -[2321.50 --> 2323.50] is -[2323.50 --> 2335.50] is -[2335.50 --> 2337.50] is -[2337.50 --> 2339.50] is -[2339.50 --> 2341.50] is -[2341.50 --> 2343.50] is -[2343.50 --> 2345.50] is -[2345.50 --> 2347.50] is -[2347.50 --> 2349.50] is -[2349.50 --> 2351.50] is -[2351.50 --> 2353.50] the truth -[2353.50 --> 2355.50] is -[2355.50 --> 2357.50] is -[2357.50 --> 2359.50] is -[2359.50 --> 2365.50] is -[2365.50 --> 2367.50] is -[2367.50 --> 2369.50] is -[2369.50 --> 2371.50] is -[2371.50 --> 2373.50] is -[2373.50 --> 2377.50] is -[2377.50 --> 2379.50] is -[2379.50 --> 2380.50] is -[2380.50 --> 2381.50] is -[2381.50 --> 2386.80] We are who God says we are. -[2386.80 --> 2389.28] It's his unbreakable promise to us. -[2391.52 --> 2394.46] God promises you our love. -[2396.10 --> 2399.96] See what great love the Father has lavished on us -[2399.96 --> 2402.98] that we should be called children of God. -[2404.64 --> 2407.50] God promises you are not alone. -[2409.02 --> 2410.56] Be strong and courageous. -[2410.56 --> 2414.76] Do not be afraid or terrified because of them. -[2415.40 --> 2417.60] The Lord your God goes with you. -[2418.02 --> 2420.66] He will never leave you nor forsake you. -[2421.94 --> 2424.58] God promises you are strong. -[2426.36 --> 2429.94] In our concerns, circumstances, and repentance -[2429.94 --> 2431.86] in the shape of the world, -[2432.52 --> 2436.04] we can do all things through God who gives us strength. -[2437.58 --> 2440.38] God promises you are forgiven. -[2440.56 --> 2446.14] If we confess our sins, we see the faithful and the trust, -[2446.52 --> 2448.44] and we will forgive us our sins, -[2448.86 --> 2451.60] and survive us from all of our righteousness. -[2453.36 --> 2456.46] God promises you are a world changer. -[2456.46 --> 2458.12] God promises you are a world changer. -[2458.12 --> 2461.56] He has shown you, O Lord, what is yours, -[2461.90 --> 2464.66] and what the Lord requires of you. -[2465.06 --> 2470.04] And act you as ladies, love, mercy, and walk humbly with your God. -[2470.04 --> 2479.28] thanks be to God for all his unbreakable unshakable promises to each one of us -[2479.28 --> 2484.70] go tell a girl and go tell the world in Christ we will not be shaken -[2484.70 --> 2494.30] if we could get every or all of the women who have been involved in gems and calvinettes in -[2494.30 --> 2500.36] the past either as like a girl or as a leader to stand up that would be great -[2500.36 --> 2510.22] girls what does the Lord require of you -[2510.22 --> 2521.46] are you guys in such a way -[2521.46 --> 2545.88] sorry forgot about this okay so the first offering today is for our budget and the needs of our church -[2545.88 --> 2551.90] and the second offering is for the gems ministry of North America this money is used to run gems on a -[2551.90 --> 2558.20] larger scale to develop curriculum to provide staff to support the various clubs and to spread the word -[2558.20 --> 2564.88] of gem of what gems is and to help set up new clubs and so much more please give generously as God has -[2564.88 --> 2565.54] given you -[2565.54 --> 2595.52] you can be the hope my soul's been seeking I want to tell you now that I believe it I want to tell you now that I believe it I do -[2595.52 --> 2597.52] that you can make me new -[2597.52 --> 2599.52] that you can make me new -[2599.52 --> 2601.52] oh I'm an empty page -[2601.52 --> 2603.52] I'm an open book -[2603.52 --> 2605.52] write your story on my heart -[2605.52 --> 2609.52] come on and make your mark -[2609.52 --> 2611.52] author of my hope -[2611.52 --> 2613.52] maker of the stars -[2613.52 --> 2615.52] let me be your work of art -[2615.52 --> 2619.52] won't you write your story on my heart -[2619.52 --> 2621.52] write your story -[2621.52 --> 2623.52] come on and write your story -[2623.52 --> 2625.52] come on and write your story -[2625.52 --> 2627.52] write your story -[2627.52 --> 2629.52] write your story on my heart -[2629.52 --> 2631.52] my life -[2631.52 --> 2633.52] I know it's never really been mine -[2633.52 --> 2635.52] so do with it whatever you like -[2635.52 --> 2637.52] I don't know what your plan is -[2637.52 --> 2639.52] but I know it's good -[2639.52 --> 2641.52] yeah -[2641.52 --> 2643.52] I wanna tell you now that I'm believing -[2643.52 --> 2645.52] now that I'm believing in you -[2645.52 --> 2647.52] so do what you do -[2647.52 --> 2649.52] oh -[2649.52 --> 2651.52] I'm an empty page -[2651.52 --> 2653.52] I'm an open book -[2653.52 --> 2655.52] write your story on my heart -[2655.52 --> 2657.52] come on and make your mark -[2657.52 --> 2659.52] author of my hope -[2659.52 --> 2661.52] maker of the stars -[2661.52 --> 2663.52] let me be your work of art -[2663.52 --> 2665.52] won't you write your story on my heart -[2665.52 --> 2667.52] won't you write your story -[2667.52 --> 2671.52] won't you write your story -[2671.52 --> 2673.52] won't you write your story -[2673.52 --> 2675.52] won't you write your story -[2675.52 --> 2677.46] I know it's never really being -[2677.46 --> 2678.46] won't you write your story -[2678.46 --> 2679.28] Won't you write your story? -[2679.34 --> 2680.50] won't you write your story -[2680.50 --> 2681.52] won't you write your story on my heart -[2682.24 --> 2684.38] won't you write your story -[2684.38 --> 2685.30] won't you write your story -[2685.30 --> 2686.38] won't you write your story -[2686.38 --> 2688.30] won't you write your story -[2688.30 --> 2689.38] won't you write your story -[2689.38 --> 2691.38] won't you write your story -[2691.38 --> 2692.86] won't you write your story -[2692.86 --> 2693.50] won't you write your story -[2693.50 --> 2697.28] They don't want my life to take -[2697.28 --> 2704.26] I let you write your story, write your story -[2704.26 --> 2709.42] Write your story, write your story -[2709.42 --> 2715.52] I'm an empty place, I'm an open book -[2715.52 --> 2718.36] Write your story on my heart -[2718.36 --> 2721.80] Come on and make your mind -[2721.80 --> 2725.86] Author of my hope, maker of the stars -[2725.86 --> 2728.90] Let me be your book of art -[2728.90 --> 2732.38] Won't you write your story on my heart -[2732.38 --> 2736.80] Write your story, write your story, write your story -[2736.80 --> 2739.40] Come on and write your story, write your story -[2739.40 --> 2742.90] Won't you write your story on my heart -[2742.90 --> 2747.34] On the nights when the dark lasts a little bit longer -[2747.34 --> 2753.64] When the wind and the storm is a little bit stronger -[2753.64 --> 2760.14] When the fear in my heart digs a little bit deeper -[2760.14 --> 2766.48] When my faith just hangs a little bit weaker -[2766.48 --> 2771.58] Where could I run to? -[2772.58 --> 2774.74] Where could I go? -[2776.00 --> 2779.24] Even when it feels like my world is shaking -[2779.24 --> 2782.36] Even when I've had all that I can take -[2782.36 --> 2786.36] I know, you never let me go -[2786.36 --> 2792.08] And even when the waters won't stop rising -[2792.08 --> 2795.12] Even when I'm caught in the dead of the night -[2795.12 --> 2799.46] I know, no matter how it ends -[2799.46 --> 2802.14] You're with me even then -[2802.14 --> 2811.10] In the days of the hidden of the little bit brighter -[2811.10 --> 2817.34] Awesome, thank you Jim so much -[2817.34 --> 2819.50] I'm going to invite all the kids forward now -[2819.50 --> 2821.60] You can come and join me up on the front here -[2821.60 --> 2824.64] Come and sit in front of the chair here -[2824.64 --> 2828.22] Give little Hank here a little bit of space -[2828.22 --> 2831.94] Come on up, come on up -[2831.94 --> 2833.38] Hi Hank -[2833.38 --> 2834.02] Hi -[2834.02 --> 2841.10] Well, I hope you're a couple baths -[2841.10 --> 2843.16] Was he dirty before? -[2843.30 --> 2844.44] Was I dirty before? -[2844.78 --> 2845.08] Yeah -[2845.08 --> 2847.32] Alright -[2847.32 --> 2851.04] Does anybody know what day it is today? -[2853.04 --> 2853.80] Yeah -[2853.80 --> 2859.48] Yeah -[2859.48 --> 2861.78] It's Gem Sunday -[2861.78 --> 2863.26] Hank, it's Gem Sunday -[2863.26 --> 2865.60] Alright, I love Gem Sunday -[2865.60 --> 2868.18] I love Gem Sunday too, man -[2868.18 --> 2868.74] You do? -[2869.46 --> 2870.86] What is Gem Sunday? -[2871.52 --> 2872.72] Gem Sunday, you don't know? -[2873.10 --> 2873.40] No -[2873.40 --> 2875.34] Zoe, are you going to tell us? -[2875.48 --> 2877.44] We talk about what Gems do -[2877.44 --> 2879.12] That's right, we talk about what Gems do -[2879.12 --> 2880.66] What Gems ministry is -[2880.66 --> 2882.30] We got to see a fun video of them -[2882.30 --> 2883.64] That was a cool video -[2883.64 --> 2884.98] And now -[2884.98 --> 2886.46] It looked like a movie -[2886.46 --> 2887.50] It did look like a movie -[2887.50 --> 2889.50] And now some of you who aren't Gems -[2889.50 --> 2891.16] You're going to head off to Children's Worship Time -[2891.16 --> 2893.38] And then the Gems -[2893.38 --> 2894.14] You're going to stay back -[2894.14 --> 2895.50] And you're going to hang out here -[2895.50 --> 2897.74] And hear a message to you Gems -[2897.74 --> 2899.04] And to everybody in the church, okay? -[2899.10 --> 2899.72] That's the plan -[2899.72 --> 2900.98] Does that sound like a good plan? -[2901.44 --> 2901.80] Yeah -[2901.80 --> 2902.60] What do you think, Hank? -[2902.80 --> 2903.14] Uh-huh -[2903.14 --> 2903.98] Alright -[2903.98 --> 2904.82] Should we pray? -[2904.96 --> 2906.08] And then we'll go to Children's Worship Time -[2906.08 --> 2907.66] And then the Gems, you can stay put, okay? -[2908.28 --> 2908.50] Yeah? -[2908.88 --> 2909.14] Alright -[2909.14 --> 2910.04] Let me pray -[2910.04 --> 2911.24] And then we'll head on off -[2911.24 --> 2913.30] Dear God, thank you so much for this day -[2913.30 --> 2916.40] Thanks that you have given us this wonderful ministry -[2916.40 --> 2917.68] Called Gems in this church -[2917.68 --> 2919.18] And then lots of other churches too -[2919.18 --> 2921.26] Where girls everywhere can meet the Savior -[2921.26 --> 2923.10] And we just pray that on this Gems Sunday -[2923.10 --> 2925.36] That you'll help us learn more about you -[2925.36 --> 2927.66] And for those who are going off to Children's Worship Time -[2927.66 --> 2929.84] God, we pray that you'll give us open ears and hearts -[2929.84 --> 2931.64] To what it is that you are teaching us today -[2931.64 --> 2932.80] We pray this in your name -[2932.80 --> 2933.84] Amen -[2933.84 --> 2934.46] Amen -[2934.46 --> 2934.88] Alright -[2934.88 --> 2935.96] Say bye to Hank -[2935.96 --> 2937.64] Bye, Hank -[2937.64 --> 2938.38] Bye, everyone -[2938.38 --> 2940.54] Alright, and everybody stand up -[2940.54 --> 2941.02] Hey -[2941.02 --> 2942.72] Oh, yeah, that's nice -[2942.72 --> 2947.14] Alright, we're going to do the kids' blessing before we go, okay? -[2947.22 --> 2948.16] So hands up, hands up -[2948.16 --> 2949.06] Are you ready? -[2949.62 --> 2951.64] We're going to say the Lord be with you together, alright? -[2951.78 --> 2952.22] Are you ready? -[2952.42 --> 2953.76] One, two, three -[2953.76 --> 2956.22] The Lord be with you -[2956.22 --> 2958.16] And also with you -[2958.16 --> 2959.62] Alright, Gems, you can sit back down -[2959.62 --> 2961.30] Kids, you can head to Children's Worship Time -[2961.30 --> 2991.28] Thank you -[2991.30 --> 3003.04] Good morning -[3003.04 --> 3005.84] My name is John -[3005.84 --> 3007.66] And I am an elder here in the church -[3007.66 --> 3010.50] And I would like to lead you through our congregational prayer this morning -[3010.50 --> 3015.44] A couple things that I want to mention beforehand -[3015.44 --> 3019.36] And one is just off the cuff here this morning -[3019.36 --> 3027.18] Forgive me here, but we often talk about bringing in fragrant offering to the Lord -[3027.18 --> 3030.42] And as I walk up -[3030.42 --> 3033.92] And I see these lilacs up front here -[3033.92 --> 3036.04] Displayed so wonderfully -[3036.04 --> 3037.92] That is a fragrant offering -[3037.92 --> 3042.96] And we need to be thankful each week for the offerings we give -[3042.96 --> 3044.78] But this morning's is definitely fragrant -[3044.78 --> 3049.72] A couple other things I would like to mention -[3049.72 --> 3051.30] One is Janet Boat -[3051.30 --> 3054.04] A member, a long-time member of our church -[3054.04 --> 3056.24] Will be leaving us -[3056.24 --> 3058.76] And on May the 11th -[3058.76 --> 3061.90] She will be moving to Lacombe, Alberta -[3061.90 --> 3064.82] She has some children living in the valley here -[3064.82 --> 3068.20] But she also has children and grandchildren in Alberta -[3068.20 --> 3070.38] And she feels at this time in her life -[3070.38 --> 3072.80] It was time to move back to Alberta -[3072.80 --> 3076.66] And so she will be leaving us on the 11th of May -[3076.66 --> 3081.12] She has not been with us here physically in church for the last couple of years -[3081.12 --> 3082.90] During this season of COVID -[3082.90 --> 3085.38] And for other reasons perhaps as well -[3085.38 --> 3089.08] But you are certainly welcome and encouraged to contact her -[3089.08 --> 3095.84] And to wish her God's blessings as she moves to Alberta at this time in her life -[3095.84 --> 3099.38] I would also like to -[3099.38 --> 3103.96] We will keep in prayer also the Baumann family -[3103.96 --> 3105.04] Robin and her family -[3105.04 --> 3108.82] As they continue to grieve the passing away -[3108.82 --> 3109.82] The death of her father -[3109.82 --> 3113.10] Some of you may also know the Flores family -[3113.10 --> 3117.02] Wally Flores passed away this past weekend -[3117.02 --> 3122.84] He was a member of the greater Reformed community here in the valley as well -[3122.84 --> 3124.94] And some of you may know him as well -[3124.94 --> 3128.02] And we will keep his family in our prayers also -[3128.02 --> 3129.82] Shall we pray? -[3133.40 --> 3134.30] Heavenly Father -[3134.30 --> 3139.64] We bow our heads before you on this Sunday morning -[3139.64 --> 3144.60] Lord you are great -[3144.60 --> 3147.00] You are awesome -[3147.00 --> 3151.28] You are powerful and all-knowing -[3151.28 --> 3154.40] And Lord you have created this world -[3154.40 --> 3155.76] And we thank you for that -[3155.76 --> 3158.80] We thank you for allowing us to be part of this creation -[3158.80 --> 3162.94] And Lord we -[3162.94 --> 3167.14] Perhaps look back on this past week -[3167.14 --> 3169.90] And we Lord some of us perhaps have been busy -[3169.90 --> 3173.04] Busy in our daily lives -[3173.04 --> 3175.62] And Lord we thank you for your perfect creation -[3175.62 --> 3177.72] And that we may have this day of rest -[3177.72 --> 3179.92] And Lord we pray that through this also -[3179.92 --> 3180.98] We may honor you -[3180.98 --> 3182.14] And be thankful for -[3182.14 --> 3184.70] All that you have done for us -[3184.70 --> 3186.52] All that you have given to us -[3186.52 --> 3192.06] Lord above all we thank you for the gift of your son Jesus -[3192.06 --> 3195.18] Lord as we have also celebrated and remembered -[3195.18 --> 3196.64] In the last number of weeks -[3196.64 --> 3199.04] Through Lent his death and resurrection -[3199.04 --> 3202.66] And Lord through this perfect gift of yours -[3202.66 --> 3204.50] We may have eternal life -[3204.50 --> 3206.68] And again Lord we say thank you -[3206.68 --> 3210.92] Still Lord we know we have fallen short -[3210.92 --> 3215.10] And we pray that your spirit would work in our hearts -[3215.10 --> 3217.26] Each day, each moment of our lives -[3217.26 --> 3220.30] So that we may be focused on you at all times -[3220.30 --> 3222.88] And Lord we pray that through our living -[3222.88 --> 3226.36] Others too may see that you live in us -[3226.36 --> 3230.72] Lord we ask and pray that there would be many -[3230.72 --> 3233.42] Each day again who turn their hearts to you -[3233.42 --> 3237.42] And Lord we pray -[3237.42 --> 3241.62] This also in -[3241.62 --> 3244.90] Ukraine and Russia -[3244.90 --> 3248.76] Lord where things are happening -[3248.76 --> 3250.74] That are indescribable -[3250.74 --> 3252.58] Hard to understand -[3252.58 --> 3255.36] Lord this warfare that is going on -[3255.36 --> 3258.44] Lord we pray for your children -[3258.44 --> 3260.22] In those countries that they may -[3260.22 --> 3263.42] Lord in special ways -[3263.42 --> 3265.30] Feel your experience -[3265.30 --> 3266.90] Your comfort and your strength -[3266.90 --> 3268.94] That they too Lord -[3268.94 --> 3270.98] May continue to stay focused on you -[3270.98 --> 3274.58] We pray Lord for safety -[3274.58 --> 3276.40] We pray for the many families -[3276.40 --> 3278.58] That grieve the death of loved ones there -[3278.58 --> 3283.44] And Lord we pray for -[3283.44 --> 3286.52] A miracle of -[3286.52 --> 3289.20] Peace there also -[3289.20 --> 3290.46] And we ask Lord that you -[3290.46 --> 3292.42] Through your spirit would also work -[3292.42 --> 3293.56] In the hearts of the leaders -[3293.56 --> 3295.34] Of those Lord who are -[3295.34 --> 3296.96] Promoting this warfare -[3296.96 --> 3298.82] That Lord that too may cease -[3298.82 --> 3302.54] And Lord as impossible as that seems -[3302.54 --> 3304.04] To us we know that with you -[3304.04 --> 3305.46] All things are possible -[3305.46 --> 3307.88] Lord we -[3307.88 --> 3312.44] Thank you for this Sunday -[3312.44 --> 3313.88] We thank you for Gems -[3313.88 --> 3316.38] Lord we thank you for these girls -[3316.38 --> 3318.04] And for the leaders -[3318.04 --> 3320.70] For their ministry Lord that they have -[3320.70 --> 3321.94] In this church also -[3321.94 --> 3323.22] In this community -[3323.22 --> 3325.70] We pray for blessing on them -[3325.70 --> 3329.70] And Lord as they celebrate -[3329.70 --> 3332.16] Their program today also -[3332.16 --> 3334.68] May we also celebrate that with them -[3334.68 --> 3338.14] Lord we -[3338.14 --> 3342.06] Pray for other ministries -[3342.06 --> 3343.50] That continue in this church -[3343.50 --> 3344.42] Weekly or -[3344.42 --> 3346.74] Bi-weekly Lord we -[3346.74 --> 3347.56] We pray that -[3347.56 --> 3350.42] Each one may continue well -[3350.42 --> 3351.14] We pray that -[3351.14 --> 3353.74] For the leaders of each of these ministries -[3353.74 --> 3355.34] Also Lord that you would equip them -[3355.34 --> 3357.92] With the tools that they stand in need of -[3357.92 --> 3361.74] Lord we -[3361.74 --> 3364.26] Pray for the members of our church -[3364.26 --> 3365.08] Lord who struggle -[3365.08 --> 3367.46] Emotionally -[3367.46 --> 3368.10] Physically -[3368.10 --> 3369.40] Spiritually Lord -[3369.40 --> 3370.88] We pray for marriages -[3370.88 --> 3372.04] That struggle -[3372.04 --> 3375.56] Lord you know each one -[3375.56 --> 3377.80] And we pray for the miracle -[3377.80 --> 3379.04] Of healing there also -[3379.04 --> 3383.06] Lord we pray for Janet Boot -[3383.06 --> 3385.14] As she leaves us -[3385.14 --> 3385.18] As she leaves us -[3385.18 --> 3385.94] In this coming -[3385.94 --> 3387.62] Number of weeks -[3387.62 --> 3390.30] We thank you Lord for -[3390.30 --> 3392.18] Her and Peter's ministry -[3392.18 --> 3393.34] Here in our congregation -[3393.34 --> 3395.92] And Lord as she leaves now -[3395.92 --> 3396.38] For -[3396.38 --> 3397.70] Alberta -[3397.70 --> 3398.76] We pray for -[3398.76 --> 3400.74] Safe passage -[3400.74 --> 3401.68] We pray Lord that -[3401.68 --> 3404.80] You would give -[3404.80 --> 3405.98] Janet peace -[3405.98 --> 3407.36] As she makes this move -[3407.36 --> 3410.76] And Lord we continue -[3410.76 --> 3411.78] For a blessing -[3411.78 --> 3412.76] On her life too -[3412.76 --> 3413.52] Lord as she -[3413.52 --> 3415.34] Is now alone -[3415.34 --> 3416.24] And we pray that -[3416.24 --> 3417.50] You would keep loneliness -[3417.50 --> 3418.56] Far from her -[3418.56 --> 3419.72] Lord we pray also -[3419.72 --> 3420.80] For the Bauman family -[3420.80 --> 3421.48] We pray for the -[3421.48 --> 3422.32] Flores family -[3422.32 --> 3424.60] Lord as they too -[3424.60 --> 3425.24] Grieve -[3425.24 --> 3426.32] The loss -[3426.32 --> 3427.12] Of life -[3427.12 --> 3428.16] In their families -[3428.16 --> 3431.76] We pray for other -[3431.76 --> 3432.64] Families Lord here -[3432.64 --> 3433.52] Also perhaps -[3433.52 --> 3434.64] That we don't mention -[3434.64 --> 3435.14] By name -[3435.14 --> 3436.64] But also Lord -[3436.64 --> 3437.28] Grieve -[3437.28 --> 3439.10] Daily perhaps -[3439.10 --> 3439.90] Or regularly -[3439.90 --> 3440.26] That -[3440.26 --> 3442.38] Lord life has been -[3442.38 --> 3443.18] Taken from these -[3443.18 --> 3443.80] Families also -[3443.80 --> 3444.68] We pray for each -[3444.68 --> 3445.34] One Lord that -[3445.34 --> 3447.86] Comfort and strength -[3447.86 --> 3448.44] May be given -[3448.44 --> 3449.20] To each one -[3449.20 --> 3452.96] Lord we -[3452.96 --> 3454.78] Pray for our church -[3454.78 --> 3455.26] As we -[3455.26 --> 3456.62] Continue to seek -[3456.62 --> 3457.80] Nominations for -[3457.80 --> 3459.82] Office bearers -[3459.82 --> 3460.84] For elders and deacons -[3460.84 --> 3461.52] We pray that -[3461.52 --> 3462.52] That process -[3462.52 --> 3463.42] Would go smoothly -[3463.42 --> 3464.86] And Lord we -[3464.86 --> 3465.38] Thank you -[3465.38 --> 3467.26] For the leadership -[3467.26 --> 3468.00] That has been -[3468.00 --> 3469.06] Given to this church -[3469.06 --> 3469.60] We pray -[3469.60 --> 3471.30] Continually Lord -[3471.30 --> 3472.14] That you would -[3472.14 --> 3473.10] Lead and guide -[3473.10 --> 3473.94] And direct them -[3473.94 --> 3474.62] In the decisions -[3474.62 --> 3475.42] That they need -[3475.42 --> 3475.90] To make -[3475.90 --> 3476.98] And Lord may -[3476.98 --> 3477.80] This church -[3477.80 --> 3479.06] Continue to be -[3479.06 --> 3479.70] A light in this -[3479.70 --> 3480.12] Community -[3480.12 --> 3482.94] Lord we -[3482.94 --> 3484.54] Pray for -[3484.54 --> 3485.24] Pastor Chris -[3485.24 --> 3485.84] As he -[3485.84 --> 3487.96] And his family -[3487.96 --> 3488.46] Lord are -[3488.46 --> 3489.72] Taking a week -[3489.72 --> 3490.86] Now in Ontario -[3490.86 --> 3491.62] We pray -[3491.62 --> 3492.68] That Lord -[3492.68 --> 3493.12] They would be -[3493.12 --> 3493.66] Given rest -[3493.66 --> 3494.22] There and that -[3494.22 --> 3494.52] They would -[3494.52 --> 3495.86] Be given safety -[3495.86 --> 3496.48] And travel -[3496.48 --> 3497.38] Back home again -[3497.38 --> 3498.56] Lord we -[3498.56 --> 3500.16] Pray for Kevin -[3500.16 --> 3501.10] As he leads us -[3501.10 --> 3501.78] Through your word -[3501.78 --> 3502.40] This morning -[3502.40 --> 3503.38] We pray Lord -[3503.38 --> 3504.46] That our ears -[3504.46 --> 3505.10] And hearts -[3505.10 --> 3505.78] May be open -[3505.78 --> 3506.54] To the words -[3506.54 --> 3507.06] That will be -[3507.06 --> 3507.46] Spoken -[3507.46 --> 3508.74] To your word -[3508.74 --> 3509.64] Lord as we -[3509.64 --> 3510.58] Read it -[3510.58 --> 3512.10] May it draw us -[3512.10 --> 3512.94] Closer to you -[3512.94 --> 3514.06] And Lord we pray -[3514.06 --> 3514.66] For Kevin -[3514.66 --> 3515.42] So that he -[3515.42 --> 3516.12] Too may be -[3516.12 --> 3517.32] Given the words -[3517.32 --> 3517.98] That you want -[3517.98 --> 3518.80] Him to speak -[3518.80 --> 3520.26] In a clear -[3520.26 --> 3520.88] Way -[3520.88 --> 3521.64] Lord we pray -[3521.64 --> 3523.28] That for a -[3523.28 --> 3524.02] Blessing on this -[3524.02 --> 3524.90] Service we ask -[3524.90 --> 3525.64] This Lord in your -[3525.64 --> 3526.06] Name -[3526.06 --> 3526.92] Amen -[3526.92 --> 3539.52] All right -[3539.52 --> 3540.30] I'm coming down -[3540.30 --> 3540.96] Here today -[3540.96 --> 3541.78] Is that okay -[3541.78 --> 3543.82] I realized -[3543.82 --> 3544.40] At the beginning -[3544.40 --> 3544.92] Of the service -[3544.92 --> 3545.66] I didn't -[3545.66 --> 3546.64] Introduce myself -[3546.64 --> 3547.26] And so I'm -[3547.26 --> 3547.54] Going to do -[3547.54 --> 3547.92] That as I -[3547.92 --> 3548.58] Walk over here -[3548.58 --> 3549.06] My name is -[3549.06 --> 3549.30] Kevin -[3549.30 --> 3549.64] Lobert -[3549.64 --> 3549.96] There's some -[3549.96 --> 3550.56] Visitors here -[3550.56 --> 3551.00] I'm the -[3551.00 --> 3552.04] Youth pastor -[3552.04 --> 3552.82] At this church -[3552.82 --> 3553.80] And I get -[3553.80 --> 3554.34] To lead us -[3554.34 --> 3554.72] Through this -[3554.72 --> 3555.34] Nice gem -[3555.34 --> 3556.38] Sunday service -[3556.38 --> 3557.16] And I'm -[3557.16 --> 3557.50] Going to do -[3557.50 --> 3558.38] So by dragging -[3558.38 --> 3559.32] This giant -[3559.32 --> 3561.14] Colorful board -[3561.14 --> 3562.76] In the back -[3562.76 --> 3563.34] Isn't this so -[3563.34 --> 3563.72] Fancy -[3563.72 --> 3564.14] It's going to -[3564.14 --> 3564.52] Be such a -[3564.52 --> 3565.06] Big reveal -[3565.06 --> 3565.64] In a second -[3565.64 --> 3567.50] All right -[3567.50 --> 3568.02] You can wait -[3568.02 --> 3568.50] In suspense -[3568.50 --> 3569.50] Here for that -[3569.50 --> 3570.96] Right -[3570.96 --> 3571.60] Isn't that cool -[3571.60 --> 3573.68] Oh it's from -[3573.68 --> 3573.94] Gems -[3573.94 --> 3574.30] It's the one -[3574.30 --> 3574.60] That you were -[3574.60 --> 3575.38] Sprawled out on -[3575.38 --> 3575.82] In the video -[3575.82 --> 3576.38] Perhaps -[3576.38 --> 3577.32] No it's not -[3577.32 --> 3577.54] That -[3577.54 --> 3578.64] So I don't -[3578.64 --> 3578.94] Know if you -[3578.94 --> 3579.52] Know this -[3579.52 --> 3579.96] Church -[3579.96 --> 3580.32] I don't know -[3580.32 --> 3580.66] If anybody -[3580.66 --> 3581.02] Of you know -[3581.02 --> 3581.16] This -[3581.16 --> 3581.56] I'm not sure -[3581.56 --> 3581.94] If you caught -[3581.94 --> 3582.40] On from the -[3582.40 --> 3582.80] Announcement -[3582.80 --> 3583.30] At the beginning -[3583.30 --> 3584.24] Or the slides -[3584.24 --> 3585.20] Or the video -[3585.20 --> 3585.84] Or the offering -[3585.84 --> 3586.32] We showed -[3586.32 --> 3586.70] Or kids -[3586.70 --> 3586.92] Corner -[3586.92 --> 3587.62] It's gem -[3587.62 --> 3588.40] Sunday today -[3588.40 --> 3589.58] So that's -[3589.58 --> 3590.16] Very exciting -[3590.16 --> 3590.48] That's why -[3590.48 --> 3590.66] I'm going to -[3590.66 --> 3591.22] Be down here -[3591.22 --> 3591.62] I'm going to -[3591.62 --> 3592.34] Be speaking -[3592.34 --> 3593.50] To everyone -[3593.50 --> 3594.60] And so this -[3594.60 --> 3595.28] Message is for -[3595.28 --> 3595.92] All of us -[3595.92 --> 3596.80] But I'm going to -[3596.80 --> 3597.68] Be looking a lot -[3597.68 --> 3598.20] Here at the -[3598.20 --> 3598.76] Gems today -[3598.76 --> 3600.14] So I challenge -[3600.14 --> 3600.90] You as a church -[3600.90 --> 3601.86] Keep your ears -[3601.86 --> 3602.22] Open -[3602.22 --> 3603.58] Apply this message -[3603.58 --> 3604.52] To your context -[3604.52 --> 3605.46] To your situation -[3605.46 --> 3606.44] But I'm going to -[3606.44 --> 3607.44] Be speaking primarily -[3607.44 --> 3609.24] To these girls -[3609.24 --> 3609.46] In front -[3609.46 --> 3609.96] Can I call you -[3609.96 --> 3610.40] Girls -[3610.40 --> 3611.62] Gems -[3611.62 --> 3612.96] Little women -[3612.96 --> 3614.40] No -[3614.40 --> 3615.84] Okay -[3615.84 --> 3616.70] No I'm not -[3616.70 --> 3617.72] I'm not Louisa May -[3617.72 --> 3618.42] Alcott right -[3618.42 --> 3620.08] No that's a good joke -[3620.08 --> 3620.42] Everyone -[3620.42 --> 3621.18] Look that up later -[3621.18 --> 3622.70] All right -[3622.70 --> 3625.40] I have a question -[3625.40 --> 3625.92] For you gems -[3625.92 --> 3626.60] And I'm going to -[3626.60 --> 3627.14] Ask you to do -[3627.14 --> 3627.96] Something here -[3627.96 --> 3628.52] I want you to -[3628.52 --> 3628.68] Take -[3628.68 --> 3629.22] There's cards -[3629.22 --> 3629.60] I've seen you -[3629.60 --> 3630.08] Kind of sprawl -[3630.08 --> 3630.54] Them around there -[3630.54 --> 3630.76] A little bit -[3630.76 --> 3631.28] You've got cards -[3631.28 --> 3631.88] You've got a pencil -[3631.88 --> 3632.98] I'm going to ask you -[3632.98 --> 3634.20] To write something down -[3634.20 --> 3635.00] On that card -[3635.00 --> 3635.34] Now this -[3635.34 --> 3635.90] You want to show -[3635.90 --> 3636.26] Anybody -[3636.26 --> 3637.28] You want to show -[3637.28 --> 3637.58] Anybody -[3637.58 --> 3638.06] I'm not going to -[3638.06 --> 3638.88] Ask you what you write -[3638.88 --> 3639.62] But I want you -[3639.62 --> 3640.20] To write down -[3640.20 --> 3640.88] What is something -[3640.88 --> 3641.82] That causes you -[3641.82 --> 3642.48] To worry -[3642.48 --> 3643.72] What is something -[3643.72 --> 3644.38] That you worry -[3644.38 --> 3645.22] About in this -[3645.22 --> 3645.78] World -[3645.78 --> 3646.12] Okay -[3646.12 --> 3647.64] When you think -[3647.64 --> 3648.04] Of something -[3648.04 --> 3648.46] Write it down -[3648.46 --> 3649.10] On that card -[3649.10 --> 3650.56] And then hang -[3650.56 --> 3650.98] On to it -[3650.98 --> 3651.26] Like I said -[3651.26 --> 3651.60] I'm not going to -[3651.60 --> 3652.26] Ask you to share it -[3652.26 --> 3653.28] But I encourage you -[3653.28 --> 3654.30] To when you think -[3654.30 --> 3654.56] Of something -[3654.56 --> 3655.06] That you worry -[3655.06 --> 3655.26] About -[3655.26 --> 3655.86] Tell someone -[3655.86 --> 3656.44] That you trust -[3656.44 --> 3657.00] Tell a gems -[3657.00 --> 3657.52] Counselor -[3657.52 --> 3657.90] Or your mom -[3657.90 --> 3658.22] Or dad -[3658.22 --> 3658.90] Later after church -[3658.90 --> 3659.14] Okay -[3659.14 --> 3659.58] Something you worry -[3659.58 --> 3659.98] So you do -[3659.98 --> 3660.58] That right now -[3660.58 --> 3661.34] And while you're -[3661.34 --> 3662.16] Thinking about it -[3662.16 --> 3664.06] I also asked -[3664.06 --> 3664.94] The whole church -[3664.94 --> 3666.70] I asked them -[3666.70 --> 3667.62] What's some stuff -[3667.62 --> 3668.66] That they worry about -[3668.66 --> 3669.68] And they sent it in -[3669.68 --> 3670.26] On a survey -[3670.26 --> 3671.26] Through Survey Monkey -[3671.26 --> 3672.28] And I got like -[3672.28 --> 3673.58] 40 responses -[3673.58 --> 3674.22] From the church -[3674.22 --> 3674.72] Which is really -[3674.72 --> 3675.20] Really great -[3675.20 --> 3676.68] And then I realized -[3676.68 --> 3677.58] That Survey Monkey -[3677.58 --> 3678.24] Has a new thing -[3678.24 --> 3678.70] That I didn't read -[3678.70 --> 3679.16] In the fine print -[3679.16 --> 3679.72] That I was only allowed -[3679.72 --> 3680.38] To see 10 of them -[3680.38 --> 3681.52] And so there's 10 up here -[3681.52 --> 3682.64] Because I didn't feel -[3682.64 --> 3683.96] Like paying $27 a month -[3683.96 --> 3684.54] So -[3684.54 --> 3686.96] Thank you Survey Monkey -[3686.96 --> 3687.96] Here you go -[3687.96 --> 3689.16] Here's some worries -[3689.16 --> 3690.78] From the church -[3690.78 --> 3691.22] Alright -[3691.22 --> 3692.10] I'm going to read them -[3692.10 --> 3693.72] To you right here -[3693.72 --> 3694.78] So these are some things -[3694.78 --> 3695.72] That some of the grown ups -[3695.72 --> 3696.26] Here in this church -[3696.26 --> 3696.58] Worry about -[3696.58 --> 3697.44] They're real things -[3697.44 --> 3698.04] Alright -[3698.04 --> 3699.26] There's the violence -[3699.26 --> 3699.88] In this world -[3699.88 --> 3701.04] Salvation of people -[3701.04 --> 3701.86] We love is something -[3701.86 --> 3702.56] People worry about -[3702.56 --> 3703.10] Their health -[3703.10 --> 3704.16] Getting older -[3704.16 --> 3705.88] Other people's health -[3705.88 --> 3706.68] They worry about that -[3706.68 --> 3707.92] Things like finances -[3707.92 --> 3709.22] And financial strain -[3709.22 --> 3710.48] People worry about -[3710.48 --> 3711.40] Not being good enough -[3711.40 --> 3712.62] For like their friends -[3712.62 --> 3713.56] Or their family maybe -[3713.56 --> 3714.50] They worry about their kids -[3714.50 --> 3715.24] Or their job -[3715.24 --> 3716.28] They worry that the sermon -[3716.28 --> 3717.34] Is going to be too long -[3717.34 --> 3718.14] They worry about -[3718.14 --> 3719.18] All sorts of things -[3719.18 --> 3721.02] And so worry is something -[3721.02 --> 3722.64] That's a really real thing -[3722.64 --> 3723.36] In this world -[3723.36 --> 3723.66] Right -[3723.66 --> 3724.50] It's something that's -[3724.50 --> 3726.04] Very very real -[3726.04 --> 3727.66] Did you write something -[3727.66 --> 3728.14] Down on your paper? -[3728.64 --> 3728.80] Yeah? -[3728.92 --> 3729.38] Okay perfect -[3729.38 --> 3729.86] No? -[3730.64 --> 3731.54] Oh you can borrow -[3731.54 --> 3732.34] Maybe borrow one -[3732.34 --> 3732.90] From your neighbor -[3732.90 --> 3733.80] Or someone in the back there -[3733.80 --> 3734.00] Okay? -[3734.04 --> 3734.94] You have the whole sermon -[3734.94 --> 3735.58] To write it down -[3735.58 --> 3736.42] So you've got at least -[3736.42 --> 3737.24] 48 minutes -[3737.24 --> 3739.34] All right -[3739.34 --> 3740.02] Now -[3740.02 --> 3741.54] I'm going to ask you -[3741.54 --> 3742.24] Something else weird -[3742.24 --> 3742.66] Okay? -[3742.76 --> 3743.52] Take a pause -[3743.52 --> 3744.64] From writing something down -[3744.64 --> 3748.76] Now pretend you're playing -[3748.76 --> 3749.82] Charades -[3749.82 --> 3750.72] You know what charades is? -[3751.18 --> 3752.38] You have to act something out -[3752.38 --> 3753.08] And make people guess -[3753.08 --> 3753.60] Actually you know what? -[3753.64 --> 3754.12] No don't pretend -[3754.12 --> 3754.92] Stand up for a second -[3754.92 --> 3756.12] Actually church -[3756.12 --> 3756.96] Stand up for a second -[3756.96 --> 3757.66] This is going to be fun -[3757.66 --> 3758.62] Stand up church -[3758.62 --> 3760.72] You are going to look -[3760.72 --> 3761.84] At someone beside you -[3761.84 --> 3763.40] And I want you to act out -[3763.40 --> 3764.30] What it looks like -[3764.30 --> 3765.12] To be worried -[3765.12 --> 3765.94] Okay? -[3766.06 --> 3767.30] Turn to someone beside you -[3767.30 --> 3769.06] Act out what it looks like -[3769.06 --> 3769.70] To be worried -[3769.70 --> 3770.66] You have eight seconds -[3770.66 --> 3770.92] Go! -[3771.16 --> 3771.92] What does it look like -[3771.92 --> 3772.48] To be worried? -[3774.38 --> 3775.14] Act it out -[3775.14 --> 3776.38] That's a lot of smiling -[3776.38 --> 3777.40] For worry church -[3777.40 --> 3779.12] That's a lot of smiling -[3779.12 --> 3779.74] For worry -[3779.74 --> 3781.92] What does it look like -[3781.92 --> 3782.56] To be worried? -[3782.68 --> 3783.02] Three -[3783.02 --> 3784.22] Two -[3784.22 --> 3785.16] One -[3785.16 --> 3785.70] Okay sit down -[3785.70 --> 3786.52] Everybody can sit down -[3786.52 --> 3788.84] All right -[3788.84 --> 3789.12] Maybe -[3789.12 --> 3789.96] I saw some people -[3789.96 --> 3790.18] Were -[3790.18 --> 3790.86] A lot of people -[3790.86 --> 3791.38] Were smiling -[3791.38 --> 3792.34] That wasn't very good -[3792.34 --> 3792.60] Church -[3792.60 --> 3793.26] We've done better -[3793.26 --> 3794.40] Charades in the past -[3794.40 --> 3795.42] Maybe -[3795.42 --> 3796.56] I saw some really good ones -[3796.56 --> 3796.74] Those -[3796.74 --> 3797.14] Worried -[3797.14 --> 3797.50] It's like this -[3797.50 --> 3797.68] Like -[3797.68 --> 3798.06] Oh -[3798.06 --> 3798.52] Right -[3798.52 --> 3799.26] Like oh I'm worried -[3799.26 --> 3800.16] What about like -[3800.16 --> 3800.84] When you're scared -[3800.84 --> 3801.14] Right? -[3801.52 --> 3802.10] What would you look like -[3802.10 --> 3802.58] When you're scared? -[3802.94 --> 3803.44] Yeah that's good -[3803.44 --> 3803.86] Like ah -[3803.86 --> 3804.76] Right? -[3804.96 --> 3805.78] How about angry? -[3806.70 --> 3807.30] What were you angry? -[3807.60 --> 3807.76] Yeah -[3807.76 --> 3809.10] Right? -[3809.38 --> 3810.40] How about when you're like -[3810.40 --> 3810.68] Grieving -[3810.68 --> 3811.80] When you're really really sad -[3811.80 --> 3813.98] Do you notice that -[3813.98 --> 3814.82] With all of those -[3814.82 --> 3816.18] All of those feelings -[3816.18 --> 3816.94] You could be shaking -[3816.94 --> 3818.60] You notice that? -[3818.66 --> 3819.32] You could be shaking -[3819.32 --> 3820.74] If you feel all of those things -[3820.74 --> 3822.10] Our worries shake us -[3822.10 --> 3822.82] Our griefs -[3822.82 --> 3823.50] They shake us -[3823.50 --> 3823.94] Our fears -[3823.94 --> 3824.48] Our angers -[3824.48 --> 3825.10] They all shake us -[3825.10 --> 3825.72] They cause us -[3825.72 --> 3826.70] To like tremble -[3826.70 --> 3827.54] Right? -[3827.68 --> 3828.54] They cause us to tremble -[3828.54 --> 3829.34] And yet -[3829.34 --> 3830.32] Your theme this year -[3830.32 --> 3831.10] What you've talked about -[3831.10 --> 3831.86] All year -[3831.86 --> 3832.90] Was what? -[3834.34 --> 3834.78] Unshakeable -[3834.78 --> 3836.54] So how can we be -[3836.54 --> 3837.46] Unshakeable -[3837.46 --> 3839.06] If we feel those things? -[3839.16 --> 3839.98] How can we be -[3839.98 --> 3840.72] Unshakeable -[3840.72 --> 3841.50] In this world -[3841.50 --> 3842.78] If we're scared -[3842.78 --> 3844.04] Or if we're angry -[3844.04 --> 3844.90] Or if we're worried -[3844.90 --> 3846.22] About these types of things -[3846.22 --> 3847.68] Or if we're worried -[3847.68 --> 3848.50] About the types of things -[3848.50 --> 3849.64] You wrote on your card -[3849.64 --> 3851.30] Well you've been looking -[3851.30 --> 3852.14] Into it all year -[3852.14 --> 3852.80] And so today we're going -[3852.80 --> 3854.22] To look at it a little bit more -[3854.22 --> 3854.54] Okay? -[3854.66 --> 3855.46] First we're going to read -[3855.46 --> 3856.80] Your Bible text -[3856.80 --> 3857.70] Your theme text -[3857.70 --> 3858.06] This year -[3858.06 --> 3858.86] Do you remember what it was? -[3859.86 --> 3860.30] That's okay -[3860.30 --> 3861.66] This is coming at you -[3861.66 --> 3862.14] Last minute -[3862.14 --> 3863.12] Oh maybe Liv does -[3863.12 --> 3863.40] It's fine -[3863.40 --> 3864.30] We're going to read -[3864.30 --> 3866.20] Psalm 62 verse 2 -[3866.20 --> 3867.30] That was your theme this year -[3867.30 --> 3867.92] But we're actually going to read -[3867.92 --> 3868.82] A little bit longer -[3868.82 --> 3869.28] We're going to read -[3869.28 --> 3870.36] Psalm 62 -[3870.36 --> 3871.14] 1 to 8 -[3871.14 --> 3871.52] Alright? -[3871.68 --> 3872.86] So if you've got your Bibles -[3872.86 --> 3873.36] Out with you -[3873.36 --> 3874.26] You can open them up -[3874.26 --> 3875.16] It's going to be on the screen -[3875.16 --> 3876.58] Behind us as well -[3876.58 --> 3879.42] Oh just -[3879.42 --> 3880.48] Either let them go -[3880.48 --> 3881.26] Or stomp on them -[3881.26 --> 3882.08] Your choice -[3882.08 --> 3883.84] Oh he's gone now -[3883.84 --> 3884.24] He did -[3884.24 --> 3885.76] Okay -[3885.76 --> 3887.44] Psalm 62 -[3887.44 --> 3887.92] 1 to 8 -[3887.92 --> 3888.32] Are you ready? -[3888.66 --> 3889.20] We're going to read this -[3889.20 --> 3890.04] You can read it on the screen -[3890.04 --> 3890.54] There behind too -[3890.54 --> 3890.70] Okay? -[3890.74 --> 3891.28] It says this -[3891.28 --> 3892.00] Okay? -[3892.06 --> 3892.42] It says -[3892.42 --> 3894.00] Truly my soul -[3894.00 --> 3895.38] Finds rest in God -[3895.38 --> 3896.40] My salvation -[3896.40 --> 3897.34] Comes from him -[3897.34 --> 3898.66] And then verse 2 -[3898.66 --> 3899.18] Is your text -[3899.18 --> 3899.70] It says this -[3899.70 --> 3900.66] Truly he -[3900.66 --> 3901.74] Is my rock -[3901.74 --> 3902.84] And my salvation -[3902.84 --> 3905.00] He is my fortress -[3905.00 --> 3905.94] And I will never -[3905.94 --> 3906.84] Be shaken -[3906.84 --> 3907.60] Alright? -[3907.60 --> 3908.14] I'll keep reading -[3908.14 --> 3908.42] Okay? -[3908.42 --> 3909.72] How long will you -[3909.72 --> 3910.34] Assault me? -[3910.74 --> 3911.64] Would all of you -[3911.64 --> 3912.40] Throw me down? -[3912.54 --> 3913.36] This leaning wall -[3913.36 --> 3914.42] This tottering fence -[3914.42 --> 3915.58] Surely they intend -[3915.58 --> 3916.26] To topple me -[3916.26 --> 3917.36] From my lofty place -[3917.36 --> 3918.44] They take delight -[3918.44 --> 3919.16] In lies -[3919.16 --> 3920.02] With their mouths -[3920.02 --> 3920.54] They bless -[3920.54 --> 3921.32] But in their hearts -[3921.32 --> 3921.90] They curse -[3921.90 --> 3923.50] Yet my soul -[3923.50 --> 3924.66] Find rest in God -[3924.66 --> 3926.24] My hope comes from here -[3926.24 --> 3926.78] And you can read this -[3926.78 --> 3927.34] With me again -[3927.34 --> 3927.88] Verse 6 -[3927.88 --> 3931.00] Truly he is my rock -[3931.00 --> 3932.18] And my salvation -[3932.18 --> 3934.20] He is my fortress -[3934.20 --> 3936.44] I will not be shaken -[3936.44 --> 3937.92] And then there's two more verses -[3937.92 --> 3939.34] My salvation and my honor -[3939.34 --> 3940.16] Depend on God -[3940.16 --> 3941.38] He is my mighty rock -[3941.38 --> 3942.22] My refuge -[3942.22 --> 3943.32] Trust in him -[3943.32 --> 3944.84] At all times people -[3944.84 --> 3946.80] Pour out your hearts to him -[3946.80 --> 3948.74] For God is our refuge -[3948.74 --> 3949.76] The word of the Lord -[3949.76 --> 3953.66] So I read this story this week -[3953.66 --> 3956.02] Of two girls in Turkey -[3956.02 --> 3957.54] There's these two little girls -[3957.54 --> 3958.06] From Turkey -[3958.06 --> 3959.70] They're 8 and 13 years old -[3959.70 --> 3960.24] Their names are -[3960.24 --> 3962.12] Evelyn and Meyerlich -[3962.12 --> 3963.42] And these two girls -[3963.42 --> 3964.32] A couple years ago -[3964.32 --> 3964.98] There was a really -[3964.98 --> 3965.80] Really really big -[3965.80 --> 3966.86] Earthquake in Turkey -[3966.86 --> 3967.72] Maybe you remember that -[3967.72 --> 3968.76] It was two years ago -[3968.76 --> 3969.62] It caused a lot of damage -[3969.62 --> 3970.36] It actually killed -[3970.36 --> 3971.08] Like a hundred people -[3971.08 --> 3971.86] So it was really scary -[3971.86 --> 3972.72] It was a really big deal -[3972.72 --> 3974.06] Anyways these two girls -[3974.06 --> 3974.58] Were home -[3974.58 --> 3975.78] When this earthquake happened -[3975.78 --> 3976.80] And they were at home -[3976.80 --> 3977.38] By themselves -[3977.38 --> 3978.20] Because their mom and dad -[3978.20 --> 3978.90] Were at work -[3978.90 --> 3980.34] And all of a sudden -[3980.34 --> 3981.74] The earthquake hit -[3981.74 --> 3982.60] And their house started -[3982.60 --> 3983.40] To like rumble -[3983.40 --> 3983.98] And shake -[3983.98 --> 3985.02] And without thinking -[3985.02 --> 3986.60] The oldest girl -[3986.60 --> 3987.18] Evelyn -[3987.18 --> 3987.98] 13 year old -[3987.98 --> 3989.02] She grabbed her younger -[3989.02 --> 3989.74] Sister's hand -[3989.74 --> 3991.40] And they ran to the kitchen -[3991.40 --> 3992.48] Into this door frame -[3992.48 --> 3994.04] And they grabbed the table -[3994.04 --> 3995.18] And they quickly pulled it -[3995.18 --> 3996.30] Against each other -[3996.30 --> 3998.10] And they held on to the table -[3998.10 --> 3999.60] Right in the door frame -[3999.60 --> 4000.76] And as their house -[4000.76 --> 4001.86] Shook and rocked -[4001.86 --> 4002.60] And as started -[4002.60 --> 4003.54] Pieces of it started -[4003.54 --> 4004.30] Falling down -[4004.30 --> 4005.46] And crumbling around them -[4005.46 --> 4006.70] They remained safe -[4006.70 --> 4008.02] And then all of a sudden -[4008.02 --> 4008.84] The earth stopped shaking -[4008.84 --> 4010.78] And they counted to 60 -[4010.78 --> 4012.66] And they ran out of the house -[4012.66 --> 4015.08] And then their parents -[4015.08 --> 4015.46] Came home -[4015.46 --> 4016.46] And they were so happy -[4016.46 --> 4017.76] To see these two young girls -[4017.76 --> 4019.04] Who found this foundation -[4019.04 --> 4020.30] That helped them get through -[4020.30 --> 4021.48] This really really scary -[4021.48 --> 4022.72] Situation -[4022.72 --> 4025.20] The girls knew -[4025.20 --> 4025.88] These two girls knew -[4025.88 --> 4026.38] What it was like -[4026.38 --> 4026.94] To be shaken -[4026.94 --> 4027.52] Not just because -[4027.52 --> 4028.36] Their whole house shook -[4028.36 --> 4029.18] But because their house -[4029.18 --> 4030.46] Disappeared in the earthquake -[4030.46 --> 4031.68] They were left with nothing -[4031.68 --> 4032.72] They were shaken -[4032.72 --> 4033.60] They were scared -[4033.60 --> 4035.92] Now there's a happy ending -[4035.92 --> 4036.50] To this story -[4036.50 --> 4037.60] Their house has now been rebuilt -[4037.60 --> 4038.72] And they're doing great -[4038.72 --> 4039.90] And everything is good -[4039.90 --> 4041.50] But that's a pretty scary story -[4041.50 --> 4041.82] Right? -[4041.88 --> 4043.04] About being shaken -[4043.04 --> 4044.58] Now the person who wrote -[4044.58 --> 4045.64] The psalm that we just read -[4045.64 --> 4046.34] He also knew -[4046.34 --> 4047.60] What it was like to be shaken -[4047.60 --> 4048.38] He was talking about -[4048.38 --> 4049.46] He was worried -[4049.46 --> 4050.08] He was talking about -[4050.08 --> 4051.36] These evil men around them -[4051.36 --> 4052.68] And he was worried for them -[4052.68 --> 4054.02] And he was worried about them -[4054.02 --> 4055.96] He was maybe even scared of them -[4055.96 --> 4057.76] So the person in the psalm -[4057.76 --> 4058.82] Maybe wasn't in an earthquake -[4058.82 --> 4060.40] But he was shaken -[4060.40 --> 4061.58] And he was shaking -[4061.58 --> 4064.12] We can be shaken too, right? -[4064.14 --> 4064.92] We just talked about that -[4064.92 --> 4065.28] A little bit -[4065.28 --> 4066.22] There's things that shake us -[4066.22 --> 4067.34] When we feel sad -[4067.34 --> 4068.10] Like when a good friend -[4068.10 --> 4069.00] Moves away maybe -[4069.00 --> 4070.54] Or when we feel alone -[4070.54 --> 4071.98] Like when we feel like -[4071.98 --> 4073.32] There's no one maybe there for us -[4073.32 --> 4074.68] We feel shaken -[4074.68 --> 4075.76] When we feel scared -[4075.76 --> 4076.96] When we feel like -[4076.96 --> 4077.58] We have a test -[4077.58 --> 4078.28] Or a recital -[4078.28 --> 4079.28] Or something like that -[4079.28 --> 4079.94] That's bringing a little bit -[4079.94 --> 4080.96] Of anxiety in our lives -[4080.96 --> 4082.22] We feel shaken -[4082.22 --> 4082.98] When we're ashamed -[4082.98 --> 4084.10] Maybe we feel like -[4084.10 --> 4084.72] We've messed up -[4084.72 --> 4085.24] Or that we're going to -[4085.24 --> 4086.12] Be made fun of -[4086.12 --> 4086.88] By our friends -[4086.88 --> 4088.56] Now it's normal -[4088.56 --> 4089.56] To feel these feelings -[4089.56 --> 4090.82] In fact I'm not here -[4090.82 --> 4091.30] To tell you -[4091.30 --> 4092.02] That you're never going -[4092.02 --> 4092.68] To feel scared -[4092.68 --> 4093.18] Or alone -[4093.18 --> 4094.80] Or worried -[4094.80 --> 4095.72] The truth is -[4095.72 --> 4097.06] You might be sad sometimes -[4097.06 --> 4097.98] You might feel alone -[4097.98 --> 4098.86] You might be scared -[4098.86 --> 4100.02] But what we're going to -[4100.02 --> 4101.10] Talk about today -[4101.10 --> 4102.54] Is that if you find -[4102.54 --> 4104.10] Yourself feeling like this -[4104.10 --> 4104.96] If you find yourself -[4104.96 --> 4105.64] Feeling like this -[4105.64 --> 4106.18] There is someone -[4106.18 --> 4107.14] You can look to -[4107.14 --> 4108.78] To get help from that -[4108.78 --> 4109.32] There's someone -[4109.32 --> 4110.06] You can turn to -[4110.06 --> 4111.52] To stop shaking -[4111.52 --> 4112.82] Alright we can turn -[4112.82 --> 4113.22] Who do you think -[4113.22 --> 4113.88] We can turn to -[4113.88 --> 4115.40] God -[4115.40 --> 4116.40] Jesus -[4116.40 --> 4116.92] That's right -[4116.92 --> 4117.22] And that's what -[4117.22 --> 4117.92] We're going to look at today -[4117.92 --> 4119.94] He is who can help us -[4119.94 --> 4120.52] When we're feeling -[4120.52 --> 4121.80] Scared or worried -[4121.80 --> 4122.36] Or angry -[4122.36 --> 4123.38] Because he -[4123.38 --> 4124.28] Can give us -[4124.28 --> 4125.38] This stable foundation -[4125.38 --> 4126.30] Like the table -[4126.30 --> 4126.96] And the door frame -[4126.96 --> 4127.66] For those two girls -[4127.66 --> 4128.08] In Turkey -[4128.08 --> 4129.04] He can give you -[4129.04 --> 4130.04] A stable foundation -[4130.04 --> 4131.32] In the midst of the shaking -[4131.32 --> 4132.76] And help you feel solid -[4132.76 --> 4134.22] Did you know this -[4134.22 --> 4134.96] As Christians -[4134.96 --> 4135.96] We believe in God -[4135.96 --> 4136.58] And we believe that -[4136.58 --> 4137.98] Jesus has overcome everything -[4137.98 --> 4139.82] And we believe that -[4139.82 --> 4141.26] Jesus can do that -[4141.26 --> 4141.82] Do you know why? -[4142.46 --> 4143.60] Because Jesus has felt -[4143.60 --> 4144.58] These things before -[4144.58 --> 4145.78] Jesus knew what it was like -[4145.78 --> 4146.42] To be sad -[4146.42 --> 4147.96] His friend Lazarus died -[4147.96 --> 4148.58] And he cried -[4148.58 --> 4149.22] It says in the Bible -[4149.22 --> 4150.14] He wept for him -[4150.14 --> 4151.42] Jesus knows what it's like -[4151.42 --> 4152.04] To be angry -[4152.04 --> 4152.78] Do you know he got angry -[4152.78 --> 4153.28] At the disciples -[4153.28 --> 4153.96] A couple times? -[4154.26 --> 4154.94] One time because -[4154.94 --> 4155.98] The disciples wouldn't let -[4155.98 --> 4156.86] Kids come to Jesus -[4156.86 --> 4157.92] He got very angry -[4157.92 --> 4158.50] At the disciples -[4158.50 --> 4160.20] Jesus knows what it's like -[4160.20 --> 4161.32] To be worried and afraid -[4161.32 --> 4162.24] Before he died -[4162.24 --> 4162.86] He was in the garden -[4162.86 --> 4163.54] He was crying -[4163.54 --> 4164.28] And he was scared -[4164.28 --> 4164.76] About everything -[4164.76 --> 4165.66] He was going to go through -[4165.66 --> 4166.92] He was very nervous -[4166.92 --> 4168.08] About what he was going to face -[4168.08 --> 4169.48] And so because Jesus -[4169.48 --> 4170.90] Has felt all of those things -[4170.90 --> 4172.46] He's able to help you -[4172.46 --> 4173.36] And us all -[4173.36 --> 4174.04] When we're feeling -[4174.04 --> 4175.24] These things -[4175.24 --> 4176.30] He's able to help us -[4176.30 --> 4177.20] To go from shaking -[4177.20 --> 4178.56] To unshakable -[4178.56 --> 4179.72] And now this is really -[4179.72 --> 4180.44] Important for you gems -[4180.44 --> 4180.80] Do you know why -[4180.80 --> 4181.50] This is so important -[4181.50 --> 4181.88] For you today -[4181.88 --> 4182.54] And why this is such -[4182.54 --> 4183.66] A cool thing we're doing today? -[4184.30 --> 4185.12] So there's a group -[4185.12 --> 4186.10] Called the Barna Group -[4186.10 --> 4187.08] Church this is fascinating -[4187.08 --> 4187.72] There's a group -[4187.72 --> 4188.58] Called the Barna Group -[4188.58 --> 4189.70] It's a big Christian group -[4189.70 --> 4191.34] It does surveys -[4191.34 --> 4192.94] Across the United States -[4192.94 --> 4194.10] Giant giant surveys -[4194.10 --> 4195.30] They've concluded -[4195.30 --> 4196.68] Through a bunch of their tests -[4196.68 --> 4197.82] That Generation Z -[4197.82 --> 4199.40] And Generation Z -[4199.40 --> 4200.30] Is anybody who's like -[4200.30 --> 4201.38] Seven years old -[4201.38 --> 4203.04] To like 22-ish years old -[4203.04 --> 4203.50] So somewhere -[4203.50 --> 4204.66] And then the numbers -[4204.66 --> 4205.20] Move around a little bit -[4205.20 --> 4205.76] So you guys -[4205.76 --> 4207.76] They've concluded -[4207.76 --> 4208.78] That Generation Z -[4208.78 --> 4210.34] That you are the first -[4210.34 --> 4212.44] Truly post-Christian -[4212.44 --> 4213.74] Generation in the West -[4213.74 --> 4215.10] The first one -[4215.10 --> 4217.12] They've concluded -[4217.12 --> 4218.40] That only 4% -[4218.40 --> 4219.54] Of Generation Z -[4219.54 --> 4221.02] Adheres to a Biblical -[4221.02 --> 4221.54] Worldview -[4221.54 --> 4222.60] In the West -[4222.60 --> 4223.98] 4% -[4223.98 --> 4225.10] That is so small -[4225.10 --> 4225.98] You know -[4225.98 --> 4226.96] When I was your age -[4226.96 --> 4227.94] And that's a sentence -[4227.94 --> 4229.06] That only old people say -[4229.06 --> 4230.64] When I was your age -[4230.64 --> 4232.06] When I was your age -[4232.06 --> 4233.06] We used to walk to school -[4233.06 --> 4234.38] Uphill both ways -[4234.38 --> 4236.62] And we had to eat dry bread -[4236.62 --> 4237.12] And water -[4237.12 --> 4238.18] And we used to fight -[4238.18 --> 4238.84] With our fists -[4238.84 --> 4238.90] With our fists -[4238.90 --> 4240.08] Not the caps lock's key -[4240.08 --> 4241.92] That's what people say -[4241.92 --> 4242.36] When they're old -[4242.36 --> 4244.12] But when I was your age -[4244.12 --> 4246.64] That number wasn't 4% -[4246.64 --> 4248.10] There was about 30-50% -[4248.10 --> 4248.64] Of people -[4248.64 --> 4250.62] Believed in God -[4250.62 --> 4251.02] Or at least -[4251.02 --> 4252.78] Adhered to a Biblical worldview -[4252.78 --> 4254.12] Right now it's 4% -[4254.12 --> 4255.42] So many people -[4255.42 --> 4256.32] So many girls -[4256.32 --> 4257.74] So many people your age -[4257.74 --> 4258.68] Don't know about Jesus -[4258.68 --> 4260.24] They don't see him -[4260.24 --> 4261.82] As someone to turn to -[4261.82 --> 4262.60] When we start shaking -[4262.60 --> 4263.64] So many don't know -[4263.64 --> 4264.82] That Jesus loves them -[4264.82 --> 4267.06] In fact we just celebrated -[4267.06 --> 4267.90] This last week -[4267.90 --> 4269.22] And the week leading up to it -[4269.22 --> 4270.60] But Jesus loves us so much -[4270.60 --> 4271.76] That he came into this world -[4271.76 --> 4272.24] For us -[4272.24 --> 4273.38] He was God -[4273.38 --> 4274.08] And then he became -[4274.08 --> 4275.36] A person for us -[4275.36 --> 4276.60] A person that got to experience -[4276.60 --> 4277.28] All those feelings -[4277.28 --> 4278.52] That maybe make us -[4278.52 --> 4279.44] Make us a little bit hurt -[4279.44 --> 4281.32] He lived this perfect life -[4281.32 --> 4281.88] For us -[4281.88 --> 4283.00] And then he took on -[4283.00 --> 4283.90] All of our sins -[4283.90 --> 4286.42] And he forgave them all -[4286.42 --> 4287.88] By dying on the cross -[4287.88 --> 4288.42] For us -[4288.42 --> 4289.18] And he did that -[4289.18 --> 4289.88] For all of you -[4289.88 --> 4290.36] And for me -[4290.36 --> 4291.38] And for everybody here -[4291.38 --> 4293.06] And then because Jesus -[4293.06 --> 4294.52] Is so strong and unshakable -[4294.52 --> 4296.18] He rose again from the dead -[4296.18 --> 4297.34] Three days later -[4297.34 --> 4298.40] Coming to life -[4298.40 --> 4300.08] Because not even death -[4300.08 --> 4302.34] Was shaky enough for him -[4302.34 --> 4303.08] Not even death -[4303.08 --> 4304.12] Could stop him -[4304.12 --> 4305.76] And then he rose again -[4305.76 --> 4307.48] Defeating sin and death forever -[4307.48 --> 4310.80] And as Psalm 62 says today -[4310.80 --> 4311.88] He is our fortress -[4311.88 --> 4312.86] Our rock -[4312.86 --> 4314.38] And our salvation -[4314.38 --> 4315.84] So when we put our hope in him -[4315.84 --> 4316.18] We feel -[4316.18 --> 4317.34] We feel -[4317.34 --> 4319.00] When we feel shaken -[4319.00 --> 4319.28] Sorry -[4319.28 --> 4320.18] When we put our hope in him -[4320.18 --> 4321.14] When we feel shaken -[4321.14 --> 4322.12] And we don't put our hope -[4322.12 --> 4322.78] In other people -[4322.78 --> 4323.40] Or our friends -[4323.40 --> 4323.96] Or our plans -[4323.96 --> 4324.64] Or our vacations -[4324.64 --> 4325.46] Or whatever else -[4325.46 --> 4327.14] When we put our hope in Jesus -[4327.14 --> 4329.04] We find that peace -[4329.04 --> 4331.48] Because when we shake -[4331.48 --> 4332.40] It's not us -[4332.40 --> 4334.08] That stops us from shaking -[4334.08 --> 4334.94] It's him -[4334.94 --> 4335.56] It's Jesus -[4335.56 --> 4336.62] He is the rock -[4336.62 --> 4337.72] When life shakes -[4337.72 --> 4338.66] He doesn't -[4338.66 --> 4339.72] It's always Jesus -[4339.72 --> 4340.78] That Sunday school answer -[4340.78 --> 4341.20] Jesus -[4341.20 --> 4342.22] That's the right answer -[4342.22 --> 4343.08] Most of the time -[4343.08 --> 4345.06] Now God made us -[4345.06 --> 4345.64] A lot of promises -[4345.64 --> 4346.10] In the Bible -[4346.10 --> 4347.56] And he kept each one of them -[4347.56 --> 4348.68] And he keeps each one of them -[4348.68 --> 4349.14] But we're going to look -[4349.14 --> 4350.54] At five promises today -[4350.54 --> 4351.84] And I think they're five promises -[4351.84 --> 4352.34] You know -[4352.34 --> 4353.28] Because you helped us -[4353.28 --> 4353.72] Through this -[4353.72 --> 4354.16] At the beginning -[4354.16 --> 4355.10] Of the service today -[4355.10 --> 4355.98] So we're going to look -[4355.98 --> 4356.70] At them right now -[4356.70 --> 4357.44] Now -[4357.44 --> 4359.20] Here's a secret -[4359.20 --> 4360.44] I just kind of did -[4360.44 --> 4361.24] A quick little look around -[4361.24 --> 4362.50] And I saw a few of your parents -[4362.50 --> 4363.42] Like check their watches -[4363.42 --> 4364.52] So -[4364.52 --> 4365.12] But we're going to look -[4365.12 --> 4365.74] At five promises -[4365.74 --> 4366.50] But it's only going to be -[4366.50 --> 4367.32] Like a minute or two -[4367.32 --> 4367.86] Each promise -[4367.86 --> 4369.10] So it's not going to be very long -[4369.10 --> 4369.88] But they can wait -[4369.88 --> 4370.58] We're having fun -[4370.58 --> 4370.80] Right? -[4370.88 --> 4371.42] So that's fine -[4371.42 --> 4371.62] Yeah -[4371.62 --> 4372.00] They can -[4372.00 --> 4372.20] Yeah -[4372.20 --> 4372.86] That's what I thought -[4372.86 --> 4374.54] Oh there's one more thing -[4374.54 --> 4375.56] These five promises -[4375.56 --> 4376.34] We read them already -[4376.34 --> 4377.02] Today like I said -[4377.02 --> 4377.24] So -[4377.24 --> 4378.82] It's going to be more like -[4378.82 --> 4379.50] Retention -[4379.50 --> 4381.18] Like we're not learning new things -[4381.18 --> 4382.20] We're retaining stuff -[4382.20 --> 4383.00] That we've learned already -[4383.00 --> 4383.72] Which is something I know -[4383.72 --> 4384.56] That you guys are really -[4384.56 --> 4385.14] Really good at -[4385.14 --> 4386.32] But maybe older generations -[4386.32 --> 4386.94] Are less good at -[4386.94 --> 4387.14] So -[4387.14 --> 4388.28] They're going to listen too -[4388.28 --> 4389.62] And be really good at remembering -[4389.62 --> 4390.72] What we've talked about today -[4390.72 --> 4390.98] Okay? -[4391.40 --> 4391.60] So -[4391.60 --> 4392.92] First promise is this -[4392.92 --> 4393.70] Promise number one -[4393.70 --> 4394.82] Jesus -[4394.82 --> 4396.18] Is love -[4396.18 --> 4397.66] And so the promise is -[4397.66 --> 4398.56] You are loved -[4398.56 --> 4399.72] Right? -[4399.84 --> 4400.60] Jesus is love -[4400.60 --> 4401.80] And so you are loved -[4401.80 --> 4402.78] In fact you are loved -[4402.78 --> 4404.04] By Jesus more than you will -[4404.04 --> 4405.50] Ever ever know -[4405.50 --> 4406.88] First John 3 -[4406.88 --> 4407.58] One says this -[4407.58 --> 4409.22] See what great love -[4409.22 --> 4410.74] The Father has lavished on us -[4410.74 --> 4411.68] That we should be called -[4411.68 --> 4413.10] Children of God -[4413.10 --> 4415.06] And that is what we are -[4415.06 --> 4416.42] That's what the Bible says -[4416.42 --> 4417.32] That is what we are -[4417.32 --> 4419.04] We are children of God -[4419.04 --> 4420.80] God loves you so much -[4420.80 --> 4421.70] Because you're his child -[4421.70 --> 4422.94] Do you know that he knows you -[4422.94 --> 4424.04] Better than anybody else? -[4424.84 --> 4426.10] He knows you better than anyone -[4426.10 --> 4427.06] More than your parents -[4427.06 --> 4427.96] He knows you more than -[4427.96 --> 4428.92] Your friends know you -[4428.92 --> 4429.78] He knows you more than -[4429.78 --> 4431.02] Your brothers or your sisters -[4431.02 --> 4432.28] Even believe it or not -[4432.28 --> 4433.26] Your gems counselors -[4433.26 --> 4434.64] He knows you more than -[4434.64 --> 4435.20] Any of them -[4435.20 --> 4435.80] Actually -[4435.80 --> 4437.38] He knows you better -[4437.38 --> 4439.32] Than you know you -[4439.32 --> 4440.94] Did you know that? -[4441.14 --> 4442.04] He knows you better -[4442.04 --> 4442.98] Than you know you -[4442.98 --> 4444.60] So here Olivia -[4444.60 --> 4445.20] I'm going to pick on you -[4445.20 --> 4445.50] For a second -[4445.50 --> 4446.32] Olivia how many hairs -[4446.32 --> 4447.00] Do you have on your head? -[4449.78 --> 4450.52] Are you sure? -[4451.24 --> 4452.04] How about you live? -[4452.06 --> 4452.72] How many hairs do you have -[4452.72 --> 4453.12] On your head? -[4454.84 --> 4455.48] Any idea? -[4455.48 --> 4455.94] No idea? -[4455.94 --> 4456.52] How about you Zoe? -[4456.60 --> 4457.00] Any idea? -[4457.62 --> 4458.76] A hundred? -[4459.14 --> 4460.14] I'm in my teens -[4460.14 --> 4460.94] At this point -[4460.94 --> 4461.40] So -[4461.40 --> 4462.88] No but you know what? -[4462.98 --> 4464.44] God watches over you -[4464.44 --> 4466.18] So God knows exactly -[4466.18 --> 4467.38] How many hairs -[4467.38 --> 4468.10] Are on your head -[4468.10 --> 4469.26] He knows exactly -[4469.26 --> 4469.86] How many hairs -[4469.86 --> 4470.48] You have on your head -[4470.48 --> 4471.86] And the Bible says this -[4471.86 --> 4472.62] Not only does he know -[4472.62 --> 4473.26] How many hairs -[4473.26 --> 4473.94] Are on your head -[4473.94 --> 4475.84] He watches over you -[4475.84 --> 4476.52] So closely -[4476.52 --> 4477.74] That not a hair -[4477.74 --> 4479.06] Can fall from your head -[4479.06 --> 4480.12] Without him willing it -[4480.12 --> 4481.00] And knowing it -[4481.00 --> 4482.70] Can any of your friends -[4482.70 --> 4483.22] Do that? -[4484.02 --> 4484.34] No -[4484.34 --> 4485.88] Only God can -[4485.88 --> 4486.56] Isn't that amazing? -[4486.86 --> 4488.00] God knows you so well -[4488.00 --> 4489.54] And he loves you so much -[4489.54 --> 4490.16] That you will never -[4490.16 --> 4491.34] Even really know it -[4491.34 --> 4492.62] But -[4492.62 --> 4494.04] You are loved -[4494.04 --> 4495.82] By more than just God -[4495.82 --> 4497.10] Can you do me a favor? -[4497.18 --> 4497.62] You can sit down -[4497.62 --> 4498.70] You have to look around the church -[4498.70 --> 4499.48] Look around the church -[4499.48 --> 4500.00] To everybody -[4500.00 --> 4501.06] Kind of sitting around you here -[4501.06 --> 4501.84] Do you see all these people? -[4502.84 --> 4503.16] Do you see all them? -[4503.20 --> 4504.06] Church you can do the same thing -[4504.06 --> 4504.86] This is good for you too -[4504.86 --> 4505.74] Look around this church -[4505.74 --> 4506.60] Everybody -[4506.60 --> 4509.40] Gems, girls -[4509.40 --> 4510.88] You are loved by this community -[4510.88 --> 4511.96] All of these people -[4511.96 --> 4512.80] When you were baptized -[4512.80 --> 4514.06] They promised this -[4514.06 --> 4514.64] They promised that -[4514.64 --> 4515.44] They would pray for you -[4515.44 --> 4516.58] They promised that -[4516.58 --> 4517.32] They would help you -[4517.32 --> 4518.52] That they would encourage you -[4518.52 --> 4519.46] That they would teach you -[4519.46 --> 4520.08] They promised that -[4520.08 --> 4521.02] They would love you -[4521.02 --> 4522.52] And they do -[4522.52 --> 4523.72] Look at your Gems counselors -[4523.72 --> 4524.52] They're in the back there -[4524.52 --> 4525.10] You see them? -[4525.56 --> 4526.56] Wave at your Gems counselors -[4526.56 --> 4527.70] There they are -[4527.70 --> 4528.64] Do you know that -[4528.64 --> 4530.10] They take a week -[4530.10 --> 4530.66] Or a night -[4530.66 --> 4532.30] Every 14 days -[4532.30 --> 4533.02] They take a night -[4533.02 --> 4533.84] Of their evening -[4533.84 --> 4535.28] To hang out with you -[4535.28 --> 4536.24] To teach you -[4536.24 --> 4537.48] To sing and dance with you -[4537.48 --> 4538.04] To play games -[4538.04 --> 4538.56] To make crafts -[4538.56 --> 4539.82] They feed you ice cream -[4539.82 --> 4540.96] And caramel sauce -[4540.96 --> 4541.66] And scorbits -[4541.66 --> 4542.68] And cream soda -[4542.68 --> 4543.78] And I know they do this -[4543.78 --> 4544.88] Because my daughter comes home -[4544.88 --> 4546.66] All wired after every two weeks -[4546.66 --> 4548.08] And it's wonderful -[4548.08 --> 4551.12] But they do this -[4551.12 --> 4554.04] Because she is -[4554.04 --> 4555.36] They do this though -[4555.36 --> 4556.72] Because they love you -[4556.72 --> 4557.84] Isn't that wonderful? -[4558.06 --> 4559.24] This is actually a really good part -[4559.24 --> 4559.88] Of the service church -[4559.88 --> 4560.54] Where we can give them -[4560.54 --> 4561.48] A round of applause -[4561.48 --> 4562.34] For all the work -[4562.34 --> 4563.76] That these Gems counselors do -[4563.76 --> 4569.58] And everybody feels so led -[4569.58 --> 4570.72] I know that they like coffee -[4570.72 --> 4571.20] And Timbits -[4571.20 --> 4571.96] And stuff like that too -[4571.96 --> 4572.86] So if you really want to go -[4572.86 --> 4573.74] And thank a Gems counselor -[4573.74 --> 4574.84] It's a good way to do that -[4574.84 --> 4575.80] So Gems -[4575.80 --> 4576.30] You girls -[4576.30 --> 4577.56] You're loved so much -[4577.56 --> 4578.56] You're loved by God -[4578.56 --> 4579.38] You're loved by Jesus -[4579.38 --> 4580.64] You're loved by this church -[4580.64 --> 4581.64] These Gems counselors -[4581.64 --> 4582.92] Just know that -[4582.92 --> 4583.78] Know that that promise -[4583.78 --> 4584.26] Is true -[4584.26 --> 4584.86] That you are loved -[4584.86 --> 4585.62] So that's the first promise -[4585.62 --> 4586.36] Jesus is love -[4586.36 --> 4587.74] And so you are loved -[4587.74 --> 4588.62] Promise number two -[4588.62 --> 4590.24] Jesus died -[4590.24 --> 4592.08] And so you are forgiven -[4592.08 --> 4593.98] Your sins are forgiven -[4593.98 --> 4595.40] Have you guys ever made a mistake? -[4596.64 --> 4597.00] Yeah -[4597.00 --> 4597.48] Oh big -[4597.48 --> 4598.46] Big head nods -[4598.46 --> 4599.48] We're very aware -[4599.48 --> 4600.06] Of the mistakes -[4600.06 --> 4600.30] Hey -[4600.30 --> 4601.44] Have you ever felt -[4601.44 --> 4602.30] Like you've done something -[4602.30 --> 4603.12] Maybe so bad -[4603.12 --> 4604.14] That you might not be able -[4604.14 --> 4604.82] To get out of it -[4604.82 --> 4605.56] That people might not -[4605.56 --> 4606.38] Forgive you for it? -[4606.80 --> 4607.04] Yeah -[4607.04 --> 4607.66] A couple times -[4607.66 --> 4608.26] Have you ever done -[4608.26 --> 4608.86] Something so bad -[4608.86 --> 4609.14] And thought -[4609.14 --> 4610.00] Nobody's going to -[4610.00 --> 4610.96] Understand me anymore -[4610.96 --> 4611.54] Or they're going to -[4611.54 --> 4612.28] They're just going to -[4612.28 --> 4612.88] Look at me as like -[4612.88 --> 4613.64] The person who -[4613.64 --> 4614.42] Who lied -[4614.42 --> 4614.92] Or who cheated -[4614.92 --> 4616.38] Or who was angry -[4616.38 --> 4617.54] Have you ever felt -[4617.54 --> 4618.12] That way before? -[4618.12 --> 4620.00] Did you know -[4620.00 --> 4620.50] That that's not -[4620.50 --> 4621.62] How forgiveness works? -[4622.82 --> 4623.36] You know that's not -[4623.36 --> 4623.90] How forgiveness works? -[4623.96 --> 4625.20] Back in first John -[4625.20 --> 4625.70] Verse nine -[4625.70 --> 4626.24] It says this -[4626.24 --> 4626.50] It says -[4626.50 --> 4627.70] If we confess our sins -[4627.70 --> 4629.18] He is faithful and just -[4629.18 --> 4629.94] And he will forgive us -[4629.94 --> 4630.38] Our sins -[4630.38 --> 4631.70] And purify -[4631.70 --> 4633.00] You know what purify means? -[4633.92 --> 4635.14] Like completely get rid of -[4635.14 --> 4636.24] Like erase completely -[4636.24 --> 4637.14] Purify us -[4637.14 --> 4638.66] From all of our righteousness -[4638.66 --> 4640.84] So when Jesus forgives -[4640.84 --> 4641.36] Our sins -[4641.36 --> 4642.34] It's like they never happened -[4642.34 --> 4644.20] It's like they never happened -[4644.20 --> 4645.12] Because Jesus died -[4645.12 --> 4646.00] To forgive all our sins -[4646.00 --> 4646.84] When we confess them -[4646.84 --> 4647.26] To Jesus -[4647.26 --> 4648.10] And ask for forgiveness -[4648.10 --> 4649.26] It's like we never sinned -[4649.26 --> 4649.46] At all -[4649.46 --> 4650.06] Okay look at this -[4650.06 --> 4651.26] Want to see something cool? -[4652.92 --> 4653.48] Whoopah! -[4655.76 --> 4656.12] What? -[4656.64 --> 4657.14] What a -[4657.14 --> 4657.90] This is the future -[4657.90 --> 4658.56] We're living in -[4658.56 --> 4659.04] Isn't it? -[4659.70 --> 4660.90] What a fancy thing -[4660.90 --> 4662.66] Here's a list of some sins -[4662.66 --> 4663.88] Alright so we've got -[4663.88 --> 4664.44] Like teasing -[4664.44 --> 4665.20] Disrespecting -[4665.20 --> 4666.02] Refusing to share lying -[4666.02 --> 4666.94] There's a bunch there -[4666.94 --> 4667.82] Some of you maybe -[4667.82 --> 4668.70] Do some of these things -[4668.70 --> 4669.08] Sometimes -[4669.08 --> 4669.40] Anybody? -[4669.60 --> 4670.44] Church put up your hand -[4670.44 --> 4671.08] If you've done any -[4671.08 --> 4671.96] Of these things before -[4671.96 --> 4673.24] Look around gems -[4673.24 --> 4673.88] You're not alone -[4673.88 --> 4676.14] Alright but you know -[4676.14 --> 4676.70] What happens when -[4676.70 --> 4677.52] Jesus forgives them? -[4677.52 --> 4678.82] It's not like this -[4678.82 --> 4679.42] It's not like they're -[4679.42 --> 4680.36] Just kind of there -[4680.36 --> 4681.38] It's not like -[4681.38 --> 4682.38] Oh yeah you didn't do it -[4682.38 --> 4682.96] But it's still there -[4682.96 --> 4683.88] He actually like -[4683.88 --> 4685.22] Erases them -[4685.22 --> 4686.56] Like they're gone -[4686.56 --> 4688.26] Like there's no mark -[4688.26 --> 4688.88] Of them to go -[4688.88 --> 4689.86] Because when you ask -[4689.86 --> 4690.88] Jesus to forgive you -[4690.88 --> 4691.60] For your sins -[4691.60 --> 4692.90] I wish I had a really good -[4692.90 --> 4693.20] Eraser -[4693.20 --> 4694.06] This image would be -[4694.06 --> 4694.74] So much better than -[4694.74 --> 4695.86] But when you ask -[4695.86 --> 4696.88] Jesus to forgive you -[4696.88 --> 4697.56] Of your sins -[4697.56 --> 4698.86] It's like they never -[4698.86 --> 4699.44] Existed -[4699.44 --> 4700.60] It's like they're -[4700.60 --> 4701.60] Not even there -[4701.60 --> 4702.72] See that? -[4703.48 --> 4704.62] And they go away -[4704.62 --> 4707.28] And every time you sin -[4707.28 --> 4708.36] And every time you ask -[4708.36 --> 4709.14] God for forgiveness -[4709.14 --> 4710.24] When you feel really bad -[4710.24 --> 4711.02] About what you did -[4711.02 --> 4711.72] And you say -[4711.72 --> 4712.86] Jesus please forgive me -[4712.86 --> 4713.52] He says okay -[4713.52 --> 4715.42] And then your sins are gone -[4715.42 --> 4716.54] And you are forgiven -[4716.54 --> 4719.34] And there's no more sin left -[4719.34 --> 4720.00] Isn't that something? -[4720.10 --> 4720.90] That's what it's like -[4720.90 --> 4721.68] When we are forgiven -[4721.68 --> 4722.44] And so -[4722.44 --> 4724.08] Don't be ashamed -[4724.08 --> 4725.40] Don't let your guilt -[4725.40 --> 4726.40] Cause you to shake -[4726.40 --> 4726.96] When you've done -[4726.96 --> 4727.70] Something wrong -[4727.70 --> 4729.28] Jesus forgives you -[4729.28 --> 4731.38] Your sins don't define -[4731.38 --> 4732.30] Who you are -[4732.30 --> 4734.06] Only God defines -[4734.06 --> 4734.74] Who you are -[4734.74 --> 4735.60] And he defines you -[4735.60 --> 4736.16] As forgiven -[4736.16 --> 4737.96] So promise one -[4737.96 --> 4738.32] You're loved -[4738.32 --> 4738.78] Promise two -[4738.78 --> 4739.26] You're forgiven -[4739.26 --> 4740.22] Promise three -[4740.22 --> 4741.28] You're not alone -[4741.28 --> 4743.32] Jesus has risen -[4743.32 --> 4744.88] And so you are not alone -[4744.88 --> 4745.86] Sometimes we do feel -[4745.86 --> 4746.52] Alone in this world -[4746.52 --> 4746.72] Right? -[4746.80 --> 4747.56] Like sometimes -[4747.56 --> 4748.24] When there's no one -[4748.24 --> 4748.62] With you -[4748.62 --> 4749.70] Like you feel like -[4749.70 --> 4750.10] There's no one -[4750.10 --> 4751.06] That understands you -[4751.06 --> 4752.40] But Jesus rose again -[4752.40 --> 4752.98] From the dead -[4752.98 --> 4753.64] And he ascended -[4753.64 --> 4754.22] Into heaven -[4754.22 --> 4754.94] And he sent his -[4754.94 --> 4755.64] Holy spirit -[4755.64 --> 4756.66] To be with all of us -[4756.66 --> 4758.12] Jesus is always -[4758.12 --> 4758.88] With you gems -[4758.88 --> 4759.78] Jesus is always -[4759.78 --> 4760.42] With you -[4760.42 --> 4761.06] Even if he seems -[4761.06 --> 4761.52] Far away -[4761.52 --> 4762.42] Even if you forget -[4762.42 --> 4763.48] That he's there -[4763.48 --> 4764.62] He is beside you -[4764.62 --> 4765.42] He was with you -[4765.42 --> 4766.50] Deuteronomy 31 -[4766.50 --> 4767.22] 6 says this -[4767.22 --> 4769.26] Be strong and courageous -[4769.26 --> 4770.20] Do not be afraid -[4770.20 --> 4770.82] Or terrified -[4770.82 --> 4771.50] Because of them -[4771.50 --> 4772.60] For the Lord your God -[4772.60 --> 4773.60] Goes with you -[4773.60 --> 4774.26] And listen to this -[4774.26 --> 4775.54] He will never -[4775.54 --> 4776.52] Leave you -[4776.52 --> 4777.86] Or forsake you -[4777.86 --> 4779.12] He is with you -[4779.12 --> 4779.98] He will never leave you -[4779.98 --> 4781.02] Even in shaky times -[4781.02 --> 4782.00] Actually especially -[4782.00 --> 4782.94] In shaky times -[4782.94 --> 4784.12] He is with you -[4784.12 --> 4785.48] You can pray to him -[4785.48 --> 4786.34] You can call on him -[4786.34 --> 4787.16] You can lean on him -[4787.16 --> 4787.86] Because he's with you -[4787.86 --> 4788.50] And again now now -[4788.50 --> 4789.24] Look around this place -[4789.24 --> 4789.92] It's not just Jesus -[4789.92 --> 4790.52] That's with you -[4790.52 --> 4791.76] It's not just Jesus -[4791.76 --> 4792.30] That makes sure -[4792.30 --> 4792.78] You're not alone -[4792.78 --> 4793.48] Look around this church -[4793.48 --> 4793.74] Again -[4793.74 --> 4795.02] You see all these people -[4795.02 --> 4797.48] If you ever feel lonely -[4797.48 --> 4798.14] Pray to God -[4798.14 --> 4800.26] Seek out someone -[4800.26 --> 4801.40] Who you trust as well -[4801.40 --> 4802.14] You can talk to a -[4802.14 --> 4802.72] Gems counselor -[4802.72 --> 4803.14] A parent -[4803.14 --> 4803.52] A friend -[4803.52 --> 4804.88] A pastor -[4804.88 --> 4805.82] We're all here -[4805.82 --> 4806.68] And that's what church is -[4806.68 --> 4807.74] A family -[4807.74 --> 4808.64] God has given us -[4808.64 --> 4809.60] Each other -[4809.60 --> 4810.64] I'm going to talk -[4810.64 --> 4811.42] To the church for a second -[4811.42 --> 4812.06] You guys are included -[4812.06 --> 4812.32] In that -[4812.32 --> 4812.84] But church -[4812.84 --> 4814.78] This is your calling -[4814.78 --> 4815.16] To -[4815.16 --> 4817.14] This is your calling -[4817.14 --> 4818.02] To be there -[4818.02 --> 4819.36] For people who feel lonely -[4819.36 --> 4820.78] Pray to God -[4820.78 --> 4823.72] Let him stir in your heart -[4823.72 --> 4824.52] To point out those -[4824.52 --> 4825.22] That need someone -[4825.22 --> 4826.14] Don't let this message -[4826.14 --> 4826.90] Fly over your heads -[4826.90 --> 4827.84] Because I'm standing here -[4827.84 --> 4828.98] Talking to these girls -[4828.98 --> 4829.78] This is for you -[4829.78 --> 4830.88] This is for all of us -[4830.88 --> 4832.60] We have jobs -[4832.60 --> 4833.72] We have a responsibility -[4833.72 --> 4835.30] As members of God's church -[4835.30 --> 4836.40] To be there for someone -[4836.40 --> 4837.76] To seek out the lonely -[4837.76 --> 4838.52] And the lost -[4838.52 --> 4839.10] So be there -[4839.10 --> 4840.36] Open your doors -[4840.36 --> 4842.20] Invite each other in -[4842.20 --> 4843.84] Don't let the disease -[4843.84 --> 4844.46] Of loneliness -[4844.46 --> 4845.88] That's spreading like crazy -[4845.88 --> 4846.42] In our culture -[4846.42 --> 4847.30] Because we live in this -[4847.30 --> 4849.06] Such an individualistic culture -[4849.06 --> 4850.56] And we're so attached -[4850.56 --> 4851.42] To social media -[4851.42 --> 4852.64] Which just distances us -[4852.64 --> 4853.16] From other people -[4853.16 --> 4854.20] Don't let your brothers -[4854.20 --> 4855.78] And sisters in this place -[4855.78 --> 4856.76] Feel lonely -[4856.76 --> 4857.86] Like they have no one -[4857.86 --> 4860.08] Think beyond our social circles -[4860.08 --> 4861.24] Reach out to those -[4861.24 --> 4861.60] Who are strong -[4861.60 --> 4862.50] Reach out to the widows -[4862.50 --> 4863.72] Reach out to the downtrodden -[4863.72 --> 4864.88] Reach out to the lonely -[4864.88 --> 4865.28] The young -[4865.28 --> 4865.80] The old -[4865.80 --> 4868.38] Think about those amongst you -[4868.38 --> 4869.12] That need a friend -[4869.12 --> 4869.88] And if you're not sure -[4869.88 --> 4870.84] If someone needs a friend -[4870.84 --> 4871.60] Assume they do -[4871.60 --> 4873.92] Be there for each other -[4873.92 --> 4874.76] One of these things -[4874.76 --> 4875.82] We've done this last month -[4875.82 --> 4876.38] Is treat tag -[4876.38 --> 4877.22] And I know that's a silly thing -[4877.22 --> 4878.16] To segue to right now -[4878.16 --> 4879.36] But use this week -[4879.36 --> 4880.22] Of treat tag church -[4880.22 --> 4881.18] To go and bless someone -[4881.18 --> 4882.98] It's like a brilliant excuse -[4882.98 --> 4884.38] To go and show someone -[4884.38 --> 4885.30] That you're thinking of them -[4885.30 --> 4888.38] To go and slay this dragon -[4888.38 --> 4889.14] Of loneliness -[4889.14 --> 4890.54] In our culture -[4890.54 --> 4891.80] Alright Jem -[4891.80 --> 4892.64] Sorry I'm back to you now -[4892.64 --> 4893.34] I think I've talked -[4893.34 --> 4894.00] To everybody good enough -[4894.00 --> 4894.36] Is that good? -[4894.70 --> 4895.62] Alright so you're loved -[4895.62 --> 4896.10] You're forgiven -[4896.10 --> 4896.82] You're not alone -[4896.82 --> 4897.96] Number four -[4897.96 --> 4898.98] Jem -[4898.98 --> 4900.22] You are strong -[4900.22 --> 4901.74] Jesus is victorious -[4901.74 --> 4903.66] And so through him -[4903.66 --> 4904.56] You are strong -[4904.56 --> 4906.06] Now listen to this -[4906.06 --> 4906.62] This is important -[4906.62 --> 4907.90] Each of you -[4907.90 --> 4909.88] Are super super strong -[4909.88 --> 4910.78] But what I'm not -[4910.78 --> 4912.00] Talking about right now -[4912.00 --> 4913.32] Is like girl power -[4913.32 --> 4914.60] Like girl power -[4914.60 --> 4915.34] I don't know -[4915.34 --> 4915.70] What's it -[4915.70 --> 4916.42] Fist -[4916.42 --> 4917.82] Fist -[4917.82 --> 4918.74] Yeah girl power -[4918.74 --> 4920.24] I don't know what it is -[4920.24 --> 4922.18] Is that not good? -[4922.48 --> 4923.18] Was that embarrassing? -[4923.18 --> 4923.66] Yeah -[4923.66 --> 4926.34] So this is not girl power -[4926.34 --> 4926.98] And you know why -[4926.98 --> 4927.86] That's not girl power? -[4928.00 --> 4928.56] And please hear -[4928.56 --> 4929.18] What I'm saying here -[4929.18 --> 4930.20] You're not strong -[4930.20 --> 4931.64] Because you're a girl -[4931.64 --> 4933.14] Just like I'm not strong -[4933.14 --> 4934.62] Because I'm a man -[4934.62 --> 4935.62] Who's shaped like -[4935.62 --> 4936.68] A sturdy bag of flour -[4936.68 --> 4939.58] You are strong -[4939.58 --> 4941.36] You are strong -[4941.36 --> 4942.38] Not because of you -[4942.38 --> 4943.68] And I am strong -[4943.68 --> 4944.50] Not because of me -[4944.50 --> 4945.40] But we are strong -[4945.40 --> 4946.24] Because of Jesus -[4946.24 --> 4948.78] Nothing is too hard -[4948.78 --> 4949.26] For Jesus -[4949.26 --> 4950.90] He reigns victoriously -[4950.90 --> 4951.38] Over this world -[4951.38 --> 4952.72] John 16 33 says -[4952.72 --> 4953.60] In this world -[4953.60 --> 4954.76] We will have trouble -[4954.76 --> 4956.00] But I -[4956.00 --> 4956.42] Jesus -[4956.42 --> 4957.96] Jesus has overcome -[4957.96 --> 4958.78] The world -[4958.78 --> 4960.06] So that's why -[4960.06 --> 4961.54] This isn't a girl power thing -[4961.54 --> 4963.00] But this is still -[4963.00 --> 4963.78] The truth for you -[4963.78 --> 4965.00] Not because you're a girl -[4965.00 --> 4965.92] Or not because you're a boy -[4965.92 --> 4966.72] Or a man or a woman -[4966.72 --> 4967.90] But because -[4967.90 --> 4968.86] We love Jesus -[4968.86 --> 4970.30] The problem is -[4970.30 --> 4971.22] If you think you're strong -[4971.22 --> 4971.92] Enough on your own -[4971.92 --> 4973.00] To overcome the world -[4973.00 --> 4973.96] You're eventually -[4973.96 --> 4974.66] Going to shake -[4974.66 --> 4975.74] With the burden of the world -[4975.74 --> 4976.34] On your shoulders -[4976.34 --> 4976.82] And crumble -[4976.82 --> 4978.04] Because you're going to -[4978.04 --> 4978.66] Then start to think -[4978.66 --> 4979.22] That maybe you're not -[4979.22 --> 4979.84] Strong enough -[4979.84 --> 4981.50] And that's going to -[4981.50 --> 4982.60] Start to feel really bad -[4982.60 --> 4985.20] But if you recognize -[4985.20 --> 4986.26] The power of Jesus -[4986.26 --> 4987.50] And the fact that -[4987.50 --> 4988.58] He's already overcome -[4988.58 --> 4989.30] The world -[4989.30 --> 4991.24] He's already victorious -[4991.24 --> 4992.28] That weight goes away -[4992.28 --> 4993.56] Because it's now not -[4993.56 --> 4994.28] What you can do -[4994.28 --> 4995.12] To overcome the problem -[4995.12 --> 4996.14] It's what he's already done -[4996.14 --> 4997.68] To overcome the problem -[4997.68 --> 4998.62] All right -[4998.62 --> 4999.62] We have to look to him -[4999.62 --> 5001.08] Don't look to you -[5001.08 --> 5001.50] For strength -[5001.50 --> 5002.04] Look to him -[5002.04 --> 5003.18] We can remember -[5003.18 --> 5003.68] What he did -[5003.68 --> 5004.30] And realize that -[5004.30 --> 5004.92] One day he's going to -[5004.92 --> 5005.38] Come again -[5005.38 --> 5006.26] And we're going to -[5006.26 --> 5006.94] All be with him -[5006.94 --> 5007.48] And then -[5007.48 --> 5008.42] You'll remember -[5008.42 --> 5009.58] How strong you are -[5009.58 --> 5010.62] Because we are strong -[5010.62 --> 5011.42] And we can overcome -[5011.42 --> 5011.82] The world -[5011.82 --> 5012.66] But we can only do it -[5012.66 --> 5013.88] With Jesus -[5013.88 --> 5015.28] He has overcome -[5015.28 --> 5015.74] The world -[5015.74 --> 5017.20] Christ is victorious -[5017.20 --> 5018.62] And so you are strong -[5018.62 --> 5019.24] And now finally -[5019.24 --> 5019.80] The last one -[5019.80 --> 5020.54] The fifth promise -[5020.54 --> 5022.88] Jesus changed the world -[5022.88 --> 5024.78] And so you -[5024.78 --> 5026.26] Are world changers -[5026.26 --> 5027.48] Now again -[5027.48 --> 5028.74] I want to frame this properly -[5028.74 --> 5029.60] I'm not saying -[5029.60 --> 5029.98] That you're going to -[5029.98 --> 5030.72] Be able to accomplish -[5030.72 --> 5031.92] Anything you want to do -[5031.92 --> 5032.22] In life -[5032.22 --> 5033.18] Simply by dreaming it -[5033.18 --> 5034.16] And change the world -[5034.16 --> 5034.56] That way -[5034.56 --> 5035.86] That doesn't always work -[5035.86 --> 5036.64] I've tried that already -[5036.64 --> 5038.14] I wanted to be a professional -[5038.14 --> 5038.80] Basketball player -[5038.80 --> 5039.38] But here we are -[5039.38 --> 5041.20] The NBA wasn't looking -[5041.20 --> 5041.90] For people who had -[5041.90 --> 5042.84] The vertical of a walrus -[5042.84 --> 5043.22] So -[5043.22 --> 5046.18] Now you should always -[5046.18 --> 5047.00] Strive for excellence -[5047.00 --> 5048.02] For sure you should -[5048.02 --> 5048.80] You should always -[5048.80 --> 5049.40] Strive for excellence -[5049.40 --> 5050.46] You should work hard -[5050.46 --> 5051.22] You should -[5051.22 --> 5052.30] You should try to -[5052.30 --> 5052.96] Improve yourself -[5052.96 --> 5053.90] And you should stretch yourself -[5053.90 --> 5054.24] And you should -[5054.24 --> 5054.94] All those things -[5054.94 --> 5056.54] But you can't simply -[5056.54 --> 5057.90] Dream things into existence -[5057.90 --> 5058.36] Either -[5058.36 --> 5059.64] That's not a good life motto -[5059.64 --> 5061.50] But you can change the world -[5061.50 --> 5062.48] Do you know how? -[5063.48 --> 5065.30] By changing other people's worlds -[5065.30 --> 5067.02] All right? -[5067.56 --> 5068.96] By changing other people's worlds -[5068.96 --> 5069.82] Here, here's a question -[5069.82 --> 5070.90] Micah 6 verse 8 -[5070.90 --> 5072.18] The ultimate gems verse -[5072.18 --> 5072.92] On the planet -[5072.92 --> 5074.46] Can anyone say it? -[5074.52 --> 5075.18] Anyone in the church? -[5075.24 --> 5075.54] Here we go -[5075.54 --> 5076.92] What does the Lord require of you? -[5077.26 --> 5079.52] To act justly love, mercy -[5079.52 --> 5082.02] And walk humbly with your God -[5082.02 --> 5083.98] Micah 6 verse 8 -[5083.98 --> 5084.36] Brilliant -[5084.36 --> 5085.98] Brilliant -[5085.98 --> 5086.92] Okay, yeah -[5086.92 --> 5087.44] What's your question? -[5088.76 --> 5089.24] A widow? -[5089.42 --> 5090.22] That's someone who's lost -[5090.22 --> 5091.18] Their husband or their wife -[5091.18 --> 5092.54] So they were married -[5092.54 --> 5093.78] And then their one spouse -[5093.78 --> 5094.34] Passed away -[5094.34 --> 5095.32] And so now they're a widow -[5095.32 --> 5096.00] Now they don't have -[5096.00 --> 5097.44] Their spouse anymore -[5097.44 --> 5098.44] So it's important for us -[5098.44 --> 5099.28] To take care of -[5099.28 --> 5100.02] Their widows -[5100.02 --> 5101.42] Their husband or their wife -[5101.42 --> 5101.98] Yeah -[5101.98 --> 5103.34] So that's why Jesus says -[5103.34 --> 5104.24] Take care of those people -[5104.24 --> 5105.12] Because sometimes they feel -[5105.12 --> 5106.00] A little bit lonely, right? -[5106.54 --> 5107.42] Because they used to have someone -[5107.42 --> 5108.14] And then they don't -[5108.14 --> 5108.68] So that's what we're -[5108.68 --> 5109.24] Talking about there -[5109.24 --> 5110.16] So make sure to take care -[5110.16 --> 5111.14] Of the people who feel lonely -[5111.14 --> 5112.90] All right, Micah 6 verse 8 -[5112.90 --> 5113.70] You just read it -[5113.70 --> 5115.62] When we act justly -[5115.62 --> 5117.36] When we love mercy -[5117.36 --> 5118.66] When we walk humbly with God -[5118.66 --> 5120.58] We will change people's lives -[5120.58 --> 5121.94] So when you show mercy -[5121.94 --> 5123.38] To someone in the name of Jesus -[5123.38 --> 5124.78] Like when you're kind to them -[5124.78 --> 5125.62] And you forgive them -[5125.62 --> 5127.20] You show them the power -[5127.20 --> 5127.78] Of forgiveness -[5127.78 --> 5129.26] And their troubles -[5129.26 --> 5129.82] Start to go away -[5129.82 --> 5131.18] When you act justly to someone -[5131.18 --> 5132.26] When you right a wrong -[5132.26 --> 5133.00] In this world -[5133.00 --> 5134.38] You empower them -[5134.38 --> 5135.20] In the name of Jesus -[5135.20 --> 5136.58] And they start to feel better -[5136.58 --> 5137.32] About who they are -[5137.32 --> 5138.82] When you walk humbly with God -[5138.82 --> 5139.92] When you give God the credit -[5139.92 --> 5141.12] For the things in this life -[5141.12 --> 5142.36] People will notice that -[5142.36 --> 5143.56] And then God gets glorified -[5143.56 --> 5144.18] And people will be like -[5144.18 --> 5145.96] Oh, this God seems pretty great -[5145.96 --> 5148.48] So when you live these lives of love -[5148.48 --> 5149.60] As God's called us to -[5149.60 --> 5150.80] People are going to start noticing -[5150.80 --> 5151.50] And the Holy Spirit -[5151.50 --> 5152.50] Will change their hearts -[5152.50 --> 5153.84] So that's our job -[5153.84 --> 5155.44] We're supposed to go love people -[5155.44 --> 5156.78] We're supposed to be present -[5156.78 --> 5157.86] For people who are alone -[5157.86 --> 5158.30] Or afraid -[5158.30 --> 5159.46] We're supposed to be strong -[5159.46 --> 5160.64] For someone who's feeling weak -[5160.64 --> 5162.24] We're supposed to forgive each other -[5162.24 --> 5163.60] Be kind to your parents -[5163.60 --> 5164.14] Your siblings -[5164.14 --> 5164.64] Your friends -[5164.64 --> 5165.22] Your classmates -[5165.22 --> 5166.30] Your employees -[5166.30 --> 5166.94] Your neighbors -[5166.94 --> 5167.66] Church -[5167.66 --> 5169.16] Again, fill in the blank here -[5169.16 --> 5171.42] Know that God is with you -[5171.42 --> 5173.28] And let others know that too -[5173.28 --> 5174.90] So that's how you will change the world -[5174.90 --> 5176.86] And this change then happens in the world -[5176.86 --> 5177.90] But also goes into eternity -[5177.90 --> 5178.78] So that's it -[5178.78 --> 5179.72] To conclude -[5179.72 --> 5180.64] A couple more things -[5180.64 --> 5180.98] You ready? -[5181.08 --> 5182.06] Did anybody notice this? -[5182.34 --> 5183.46] These five promises -[5183.46 --> 5185.48] These five promises -[5185.48 --> 5186.58] Are the gospel message -[5186.58 --> 5188.34] You know what the gospel message is? -[5188.94 --> 5189.98] Jesus loved you -[5189.98 --> 5191.38] And so he died for you -[5191.38 --> 5192.92] He rose again for you -[5192.92 --> 5195.16] He was victorious over sin and death for you -[5195.16 --> 5196.44] And now -[5196.44 --> 5198.10] And then he changed the world -[5198.10 --> 5199.62] And those are the promises -[5199.62 --> 5200.30] Because of that -[5200.30 --> 5201.16] We know we are loved -[5201.16 --> 5202.30] We know we're forgiven -[5202.30 --> 5203.78] We know we're not alone -[5203.78 --> 5205.22] We know we are strong -[5205.22 --> 5206.36] And we know that through Jesus -[5206.36 --> 5207.58] We can change the world -[5207.58 --> 5208.68] That's the gospel truth -[5208.68 --> 5210.36] That's the gospel truth -[5210.36 --> 5212.82] And Jim, some of you sit in the sanctuary every week -[5212.82 --> 5213.18] That's true -[5213.18 --> 5214.72] Some of you, they'll go to children's worship time too -[5214.72 --> 5215.36] But did you know this? -[5215.74 --> 5216.46] Every week -[5216.46 --> 5217.80] Pastor Chris or myself -[5217.80 --> 5218.28] Or whoever -[5218.28 --> 5219.46] Whatever pastor is here -[5219.46 --> 5221.42] We preach that message -[5221.42 --> 5222.22] Every week -[5222.22 --> 5224.22] Every single week -[5224.22 --> 5224.86] And do you know why? -[5226.20 --> 5229.16] Because it matters so, so, so much -[5229.16 --> 5230.62] That is the reason we preach it -[5230.62 --> 5232.32] Because it matters so much -[5232.32 --> 5234.06] It changes our lives -[5234.06 --> 5235.48] And because we actually -[5235.48 --> 5236.54] We forget it -[5236.54 --> 5238.28] We all forget it -[5238.28 --> 5239.66] It's hard to remember on Monday -[5239.66 --> 5242.76] But that's why we need to read our Bibles -[5242.76 --> 5243.92] That's why we need to pray every day -[5243.92 --> 5245.20] Again, these are such simple messages -[5245.20 --> 5246.36] But it's so important -[5246.36 --> 5248.48] The gospel truth of Jesus -[5248.48 --> 5249.68] Is that he loved you so much -[5249.68 --> 5250.20] That he lived -[5250.20 --> 5250.94] He died -[5250.94 --> 5251.80] He rose again -[5251.80 --> 5253.04] Victoriously from the grave -[5253.04 --> 5254.76] And he changed the world forever -[5254.76 --> 5255.64] We need to remember that -[5255.64 --> 5255.84] Yeah? -[5255.96 --> 5256.32] You agree? -[5257.38 --> 5257.66] Yeah? -[5257.96 --> 5258.20] Yeah? -[5258.20 --> 5258.60] Good -[5258.60 --> 5259.04] Alright -[5259.04 --> 5260.50] So if you're ever feeling sad -[5260.50 --> 5260.90] Or alone -[5260.90 --> 5261.32] Or afraid -[5261.32 --> 5261.92] Or ashamed -[5261.92 --> 5263.70] If anything causes you to shake -[5263.70 --> 5265.20] Remember that God's your rock -[5265.20 --> 5266.22] And your fortress -[5266.22 --> 5267.18] And our hope is in him -[5267.18 --> 5269.24] He is what is unshakable -[5269.24 --> 5270.40] So you're loved -[5270.40 --> 5271.64] You're forgiven -[5271.64 --> 5272.56] You're not alone -[5272.56 --> 5273.68] You're strong -[5273.68 --> 5275.58] All because of Jesus -[5275.58 --> 5277.04] So should we go change the world? -[5277.94 --> 5278.34] Yeah? -[5278.50 --> 5278.68] Okay -[5278.68 --> 5279.24] Let me pray -[5279.24 --> 5280.84] And I think we're going to sing a song -[5280.84 --> 5282.30] And then we'll close -[5282.30 --> 5282.52] Okay? -[5282.96 --> 5283.52] Let's fold our hands -[5283.52 --> 5283.98] Close our eyes -[5283.98 --> 5284.54] Let's pray church -[5284.54 --> 5285.98] Father in heaven -[5285.98 --> 5286.80] And we thank you so much -[5286.80 --> 5288.32] For this gospel truth of Jesus -[5288.32 --> 5290.12] That you have come to this earth -[5290.12 --> 5291.52] You forgave us our sins -[5291.52 --> 5293.18] You died and rose again for us -[5293.18 --> 5295.08] And that you have changed the world -[5295.08 --> 5295.80] And we pray God -[5295.80 --> 5298.16] That as we go out into this week -[5298.16 --> 5299.54] We go to school -[5299.54 --> 5300.18] We go to work -[5300.18 --> 5301.02] Wherever we end up going -[5301.02 --> 5302.22] That we will remember that truth -[5302.22 --> 5304.78] And that we will remember -[5304.78 --> 5305.54] That we are not alone -[5305.54 --> 5306.90] That we are forgiven -[5306.90 --> 5308.12] That we are loved -[5308.12 --> 5309.56] And that we are strong -[5309.56 --> 5311.20] We pray that you will help us -[5311.20 --> 5312.10] Remember all of those things -[5312.10 --> 5312.54] In your name -[5312.54 --> 5313.00] Amen -[5313.00 --> 5330.50] Please stand with us -[5330.50 --> 5332.22] As we sing this song -[5332.22 --> 5333.06] My Lighthouse -[5333.06 --> 5347.12] In my wrestling -[5347.12 --> 5349.36] In my doubts -[5349.36 --> 5351.66] In my failures -[5351.66 --> 5353.84] You won't walk out -[5353.84 --> 5355.86] Your great love -[5355.86 --> 5358.18] Will lead me through -[5358.18 --> 5360.48] You are the peace -[5360.48 --> 5362.52] In my troubled sea -[5362.52 --> 5363.06] Oh -[5363.06 --> 5364.98] You are the peace -[5364.98 --> 5367.00] In my troubled sea -[5367.00 --> 5373.18] In the silence -[5373.18 --> 5375.32] You won't let go -[5375.32 --> 5377.72] In the questions -[5377.72 --> 5379.92] Your truth will hold -[5379.92 --> 5381.94] Your great love -[5381.94 --> 5384.32] Will lead me through -[5384.32 --> 5386.62] You are the peace -[5386.62 --> 5388.66] In my troubled sea -[5388.66 --> 5389.20] Oh -[5389.20 --> 5391.12] You are the peace -[5391.12 --> 5393.54] In my troubled sea -[5393.54 --> 5397.20] Oh -[5397.20 --> 5399.30] My Lighthouse -[5399.30 --> 5401.66] My Lighthouse -[5401.66 --> 5403.96] Shining in the darkness -[5403.96 --> 5406.12] I will follow you -[5406.12 --> 5406.74] Oh -[5406.74 --> 5408.74] My Lighthouse -[5408.74 --> 5411.02] My Lighthouse -[5411.02 --> 5412.68] I will trust -[5412.68 --> 5412.70] I will trust -[5412.70 --> 5413.68] The promise -[5413.68 --> 5415.66] You will carry me -[5415.66 --> 5417.04] Safe to shore -[5417.04 --> 5421.86] Safe to shore -[5421.86 --> 5421.90] Safe to shore -[5421.90 --> 5426.50] Safe to shore -[5426.50 --> 5426.56] Safe to shore -[5426.56 --> 5431.24] Safe to shore -[5431.24 --> 5436.94] I won't fear -[5436.94 --> 5439.62] What tomorrow brings -[5439.62 --> 5441.86] With each morning -[5441.86 --> 5443.04] I'll rise -[5443.04 --> 5444.14] And sing -[5444.14 --> 5446.36] My God's love -[5446.36 --> 5448.88] Will lead me through -[5448.88 --> 5451.22] You are the peace -[5451.22 --> 5453.36] In my troubled sea -[5453.36 --> 5453.90] Oh -[5453.90 --> 5455.74] You are the peace -[5455.74 --> 5458.34] In my troubled sea -[5458.34 --> 5464.22] My Lighthouse -[5464.22 --> 5466.64] My Lighthouse -[5466.64 --> 5469.00] Shining in the darkness -[5469.00 --> 5470.74] I will follow you -[5470.74 --> 5471.28] I will follow you -[5471.28 --> 5471.94] Oh -[5471.94 --> 5473.98] My Lighthouse -[5473.98 --> 5475.74] My Lighthouse -[5476.42 --> 5478.04] I will trust -[5478.04 --> 5479.02] The promise -[5479.02 --> 5481.08] You will carry me -[5481.08 --> 5482.50] Safe to shore -[5482.50 --> 5487.38] Safe to shore -[5487.38 --> 5492.06] Safe to shore -[5492.06 --> 5496.00] Safe to shore -[5496.00 --> 5501.00] Safe to shore -[5501.00 --> 5502.26] Higher before us -[5502.26 --> 5503.02] Fire before us -[5503.02 --> 5504.00] You're the brightest -[5504.00 --> 5505.40] You're the brightest -[5505.40 --> 5508.34] You will lead us -[5508.34 --> 5510.74] Through the storms -[5510.74 --> 5513.22] Fire before us -[5513.22 --> 5513.38] You're the brightest -[5513.38 --> 5517.36] You will lead us -[5517.36 --> 5519.46] Through the storms -[5519.46 --> 5520.98] Fire before us -[5520.98 --> 5529.92] Fire before us, you're the brightest. You will lead us through the storm. -[5529.92 --> 5539.36] Fire before us, you're the brightest. You will lead us through the storm. -[5539.66 --> 5549.00] My lighthouse, my lighthouse, shining in the darkness, I will follow you all. -[5549.00 --> 5559.36] My lighthouse, my lighthouse, I will trust the promise, you will carry me safe to shore. -[5562.10 --> 5569.00] Safe to shore, safe to shore, safe to shore. -[5571.68 --> 5573.48] Safe to shore. -[5573.48 --> 5603.46] Safe to shore. -[5603.48 --> 5605.62] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[5605.62 --> 5609.42] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[5609.70 --> 5614.04] The Lord turn his face toward you and give you his peace. -[5614.68 --> 5616.70] And all God's people said, Amen. -[5616.70 --> 5618.84] This my only comfort in my life and in my death. -[5618.84 --> 5636.98] This my only comfort in my life and in my death. -[5636.98 --> 5653.32] You have fully paid for all my sins and all my debt. -[5653.32 --> 5657.80] Even when I struggle to believe. -[5657.80 --> 5663.88] With your precious blood you set me free. -[5663.88 --> 5665.88] I am not my heart. -[5666.02 --> 5670.22] I am not my heart. -[5670.22 --> 5676.32] But the Lord, body and soul. -[5676.56 --> 5682.52] In my life and in death. -[5682.52 --> 5688.52] To you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[5688.66 --> 5695.98] You preserve my life in such a way that without you. -[5695.98 --> 5702.12] Not a hair can fall from me unless you will it too. -[5702.12 --> 5707.46] Even when I'm lost in desperation. -[5707.46 --> 5713.46] All things work together for a salvation. -[5713.46 --> 5715.46] I am not my own. -[5715.46 --> 5718.46] I am not my own. -[5718.46 --> 5724.46] But belong, body and soul. -[5724.46 --> 5730.46] In my life and in death. -[5730.46 --> 5738.46] To you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[5760.46 --> 5768.46] Always by your Holy Spirit you assure me. -[5768.46 --> 5774.46] Of eternal life and make me willing and ready. -[5774.46 --> 5781.46] Even when I can't see my way through. -[5781.46 --> 5789.46] From now on to always live for you. -[5789.46 --> 5794.46] I am not my own. -[5794.46 --> 5796.46] I am not my own. -[5796.46 --> 5800.46] But belong, body and soul. -[5800.46 --> 5806.46] In my life and in death. -[5806.46 --> 5813.46] To you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[5813.46 --> 5814.46] I am not my own. -[5814.46 --> 5818.46] I am not my own. -[5818.46 --> 5819.46] I am not my own. -[5819.46 --> 5824.46] I belong, body and soul. -[5824.46 --> 5830.46] In my life and in death. -[5830.46 --> 5837.46] To you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[5837.46 --> 5839.46] I am not my own. -[5839.46 --> 5842.46] I am not my own. -[5842.46 --> 5849.46] But belong, body and soul. -[5849.46 --> 5855.46] In my life and in death. -[5855.46 --> 5864.46] To you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[5864.46 --> 5866.46] is crec Manson that night. -[5866.46 --> 5871.46] To you, Lord, Christ my spirit. -[5871.46 --> 5875.46] Let's pray, Lord, for God bless, how may God bring it to heaven? -[5875.46 --> 5905.44] piano plays softly -[5905.46 --> 5935.44] piano plays softly -[5935.46 --> 5965.44] piano plays softly diff --git a/Sunday Worship - April 3, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - April 3, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c3f80ac39307d038e4cf0264e0731fa63825cbc3..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - April 3, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,74 +0,0 @@ -• The speaker is thanking someone or something for various periods of time -• Reference to a song lyric "Light of the world" -• Discussion about giving oneself completely to worship and devotion ("Here I am to worship") -• Conversation about surrendering material possessions and love ("Take my life, take my voice, take my silver and my gold") -• Personal anecdote about seeing someone on spring break -• Lighthearted discussion about being a plant and loving gardens -• Transition to a more serious topic: making one's own gods versus the God of the Bible -• What it means to make one's own gods -• The Israelites' creation of a golden calf as a substitute for God -• Idolatry: attributing ultimate importance or priority to something other than God -• The focus of the heart's affections and source of protection and direction in life -• Making one's own gods as deciding what is worth pursuing, what gives purpose to life, and what ultimately matters -• Making our own gods is placing ourselves at the top of a hierarchy -• Common goals for making our own gods/god-like ideas: peace, power, and prosperity -• Desire for comfort, security, and ease has replaced older names and deities -• Idolizing comfort and security as life's purpose leads to a sense of disconnection from true meaning -• The concept of self-definition and identity -• Personal prosperity as the root of all human pursuit -• Making one's own gods in the pursuit of peace, power, and prosperity -• Idolatry in modern society, including in Christianity -• Human nature's tendency to create its own meaning, purpose, and value -• The role of relationship with God through Jesus Christ in finding true peace, power, and prosperity -• Defining prosperity in an other-centered, unconditional love way -• The difference between true purpose and the gods of one's own making -• Letting God define truth and purpose through His word and revelation -• Submitting to God's truth and will for one's life -• Finding peace, power, and prosperity by submitting to God -• Grasping after things that can only come from God leads to emptiness -• The importance of knowing why people create their own gods and pursue lesser glories -• The story of Moses in Exodus 24 -• The people's expectation and waiting for a display of power from God after seeing miracles in the plagues -• The danger of a faith based on displays of power or emotional experiences rather than a deeper relationship with God -• Criticism of some evangelical Protestant churches that focus on feelings and emotional experiences in worship -• A warning against defining one's faith based on personal experience or emotional highs -• Faith based on displays of power will not endure -• Experientialism and emotivism are unreliable foundations for faith -• The absence of visible signs or experiences does not mean God is absent -• Humans create their own idols to fill the gap left by God's seeming absence -• Regular attendance at church may not be enough to maintain a relationship with God -• The concept of worshiping idols and gods in modern life -• Comparison to the Israelites making a golden calf -• Self-justification and excuses for creating one's own idols -• Story of Aaron casting an idol for the Israelites and his subsequent attempt to justify it -• The people's response to the idol, including building an altar and having a festival to the Lord -• The people's actions in the story, despite following religious rituals, show a lack of concern for God's will -• Syncretism and blending of priorities and definitions of peace, power, and prosperity -• Unawareness of spiritual leaders (Aaron) or inability to guide the people -• Danger of self-justification of gods made by humans -• Comparison between the story and modern-day desires for happiness, comfort, and getting what one wants -• Expressive individualism as a modern pagan gospel -• Cultural ubiquity of expressive individualism -• Changing the gospel to include human effort and self-fulfillment -• Nullification of the true gospel through additions or subtractions -• God's holiness and justice in condemning sin -• God's love for humanity despite their rebellion against him -• The gospel of Jesus Christ as an overflow of God's pre-existing love -• The resurrection of Jesus and its significance -• God's victory over sin, death, and the devil -• Jesus' mission and purpose in sending the Holy Spirit to transform and sanctify believers -• The gospel message continuing until Jesus returns -• The importance of defining oneself by God's identity and love, rather than personal feelings or experiences -• Adoption by a holy God through faith in Jesus -• Identity as children of God, whole and human -• Unchanging nature of God provides freedom to change -• True peace, power, and prosperity come from God's presence -• Submission to God's definition of self and worship of Him alone -• Praise and adoration of a holy God through prayer and song -• God's presence and protection -• Not being afraid -• The blessing of God and peace -• Power, prosperity, and serving the Lord -• The power and love of Christ in everyday life -• The security of salvation through Jesus Christ -• Praise and gratitude to God and Christ. \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - April 3, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - April 3, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f59a9de6871db874adc672fa71aaf15396c95ff6..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - April 3, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1294 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 599.98] Thank you. -[599.98 --> 629.96] Thank you. -[629.98 --> 659.96] Thank you. -[659.98 --> 689.96] Thank you. -[689.96 --> 719.94] Thank you. -[719.94 --> 749.92] Thank you. -[749.94 --> 779.92] Thank you. -[779.92 --> 809.90] Thank you. -[809.92 --> 839.90] Thank you. -[839.92 --> 869.90] Thank you. -[869.90 --> 899.88] Thank you. -[899.90 --> 929.88] Thank you. -[929.90 --> 959.88] Thank you. -[959.88 --> 989.86] Thank you. -[989.88 --> 1019.86] Thank you. -[1019.88 --> 1049.86] Thank you. -[1049.88 --> 1079.86] Thank you. -[1079.88 --> 1109.86] Thank you. -[1109.88 --> 1139.86] Thank you. -[1139.86 --> 1169.84] Thank you. -[1169.86 --> 1199.84] Thank you. -[1199.86 --> 1229.84] Thank you. -[1229.86 --> 1259.84] Thank you. -[1259.86 --> 1289.84] Thank you. -[1289.86 --> 1319.84] Thank you. -[1319.86 --> 1349.84] Thank you. -[1349.84 --> 1379.82] Thank you. -[1379.82 --> 1409.80] Thank you. -[1409.80 --> 1439.78] Thank you. -[1439.78 --> 1469.76] Thank you. -[1469.76 --> 1499.74] Thank you. -[1499.74 --> 1529.72] Thank you. -[1529.72 --> 1559.70] Thank you. -[1559.70 --> 1589.68] Thank you. -[1589.70 --> 1619.68] Thank you. -[1619.68 --> 1649.66] Thank you. -[1649.68 --> 1679.66] Light of the world. -[1679.68 --> 1709.66] Thank you. -[1709.66 --> 1739.64] Thank you. -[1739.66 --> 1769.64] Thank you. -[1769.64 --> 1799.62] Thank you. -[1799.64 --> 1829.62] Thank you. -[1829.62 --> 1859.60] Thank you. -[1859.62 --> 1889.60] Thank you. -[1889.62 --> 1919.60] Thank you. -[1919.60 --> 1949.58] Here I am to worship. -[1949.58 --> 1979.56] Here I am to say, -[1979.56 --> 2009.54] Thank you. -[2009.54 --> 2039.54] Thank you. -[2039.54 --> 2069.52] Thank you. -[2069.52 --> 2099.50] Thank you. -[2099.52 --> 2129.50] Thank you. -[2129.50 --> 2159.48] Take my life. -[2159.50 --> 2189.48] Take my voice. -[2189.50 --> 2219.48] Take my silver and my gold. -[2219.48 --> 2249.46] Thank you. -[2249.46 --> 2279.44] Take my love. -[2279.46 --> 2309.44] Thank you. -[2309.44 --> 2339.42] I saw that. -[2339.42 --> 2369.40] on spring break. -[2369.40 --> 2399.38] I love you. -[2399.38 --> 2429.36] I think now is the season. -[2429.36 --> 2459.34] Do you have an idea. -[2459.36 --> 2489.32] That's true. -[2489.32 --> 2519.30] I'm a plant. -[2519.30 --> 2549.28] I'm a plant. -[2549.28 --> 2579.28] I know. -[2579.28 --> 2609.26] Who else loved gardens. -[2609.26 --> 2639.24] Right? -[2639.24 --> 2669.22] I'm a little bit. -[2669.24 --> 2699.22] I'm a little bit. -[2699.22 --> 2729.20] I'm a little bit. -[2729.20 --> 2759.18] I'm a little bit. -[2759.18 --> 2789.16] I'm a little bit. -[2789.16 --> 2819.14] I'm a little bit. -[2819.14 --> 2849.12] I'm a little bit. -[2849.12 --> 2879.10] I'm a little bit. -[2879.10 --> 2909.08] I'm a little bit. -[2909.08 --> 2939.06] I'm a little bit. -[2939.06 --> 2969.04] I'm a little bit. -[2969.04 --> 2999.02] I'm a little bit. -[2999.02 --> 3029.00] And bring them. -[3029.00 --> 3058.98] So there will be a little bit. -[3058.98 --> 3088.96] I have made themselves. -[3088.98 --> 3118.94] But Moses sought the Lord. -[3118.94 --> 3148.92] Abraham, Abraham, Abraham, Abraham, Abraham, Abraham, and I will make your descendants. -[3148.92 --> 3178.90] All right. -[3178.90 --> 3208.88] Now, this is one of those. -[3208.88 --> 3226.28] seule- -[3238.88 --> 3244.42] here this morning, here's the sort of big idea or the theme that we're going to look at. -[3245.14 --> 3253.92] It is the temptation to make gods of our own making, right, to make our own gods is as old as -[3253.92 --> 3264.20] humanity itself. What I hope we will see is that the God of the Bible alone is worthy of our worship. -[3264.20 --> 3273.82] Right, as humans, we are really good at making our own gods. What we need to do is make the God of the -[3273.82 --> 3281.32] Bible our one and only in our hearts. I'm going to look at that with you through four points or four -[3281.32 --> 3290.84] questions to frame our time. One, what does it mean to make our own gods? Two, what are the gods we make? -[3290.84 --> 3297.26] And then three, why do we make those gods in our life? And then fourth, finally, where we will end, -[3297.94 --> 3305.08] how does the God of the Bible overcome all those other gods? So like we do with numbers, we'll start -[3305.08 --> 3314.42] at the beginning. Number one, what does it mean to make our own gods? Now for this, I want you to jump -[3314.42 --> 3321.48] right into the middle of the story that we read actually. With your Bible open, look at verse 7 and 8. -[3321.48 --> 3324.66] The Lord said to Moses, -[3324.66 --> 3331.92] go down because your people whom you brought up out of Egypt have become corrupt. They have been quick -[3331.92 --> 3337.96] to turn away from what I commanded them and have made themselves an idol cast in the shape of a calf. -[3338.32 --> 3344.42] They have bowed down to it and sacrificed to it and have said, these are your gods, Israel, who brought -[3344.42 --> 3354.84] you up out of Egypt. Now, if you have the ears to hear it, right, this is a repeat of what was said -[3354.84 --> 3361.70] just before in verse 3 and 4, but also that language, right, that gods that have brought you up out of -[3361.70 --> 3368.30] Egypt, again, if you have the ears to hear it, should pickle your memory a little bit, right? It has a bit of a -[3368.30 --> 3376.56] familiarity to it. Maybe you remember when we were looking back at Exodus 20. Exodus 20 is the giving of -[3376.56 --> 3383.36] the Ten Commandments. In that very first commandment, God says, I am the Lord your God who brought you out -[3383.36 --> 3391.88] of Egypt, out of the land of slavery, right? Who brought you out of Egypt? You hear how what we just -[3391.88 --> 3399.90] read in Exodus 32 is an echo of that phrase, who brought you out of Egypt. It's an intentional callback -[3399.90 --> 3409.18] for your minds into what was going on in Exodus 20, now seated as the context for Exodus 32. In Exodus 20, -[3409.56 --> 3415.50] in the introduction to the Ten Commandments, right, we get this statement of who God is. It says, I am the -[3415.50 --> 3421.52] Lord your God who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery, and then right away, the first -[3421.52 --> 3427.92] commandment, you shall have no other gods before me. And then the second command, you shall not make -[3427.92 --> 3433.86] for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the -[3433.86 --> 3440.44] waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them, for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous -[3440.44 --> 3449.88] God. Commandment from Exodus 20 is intentionally, contrastingly paralleled with what's taking place -[3449.88 --> 3459.90] in Exodus 32. And so that contrast feeds into what I want to suggest for us this morning is a working -[3459.90 --> 3469.12] definition of what it means to make our own gods. And what the people in this story here in Exodus 32 -[3469.12 --> 3477.70] are doing is attributing to the golden calf, either in actuality or as a representative entity of the -[3477.70 --> 3484.00] broader gods that have helped them, but attributing to the golden calf the work of the one true God, -[3484.78 --> 3493.18] the work of Yahweh. They're giving this created thing the priority of place in their worship and in -[3493.18 --> 3501.06] their life and in their heart. In a word, a church word, what we're talking about here is idolatry. -[3501.06 --> 3509.18] Now, idolatry is whenever you take a good thing and turn it into an ultimate thing. Idolatry is -[3509.18 --> 3515.12] whenever you take something that is not God and give it that thing, that person, that idea, that -[3515.12 --> 3524.14] whatever, the throne of your heart. Idolatry is when you attribute to others, whether it's -[3524.14 --> 3531.88] an accomplishment or a person or a sense or even an emotion, a feeling, right? Whenever you attribute -[3531.88 --> 3539.96] something other than God or something to other than God, we are committing and practicing making -[3539.96 --> 3547.30] our own gods, right? What God is doing and what God will do in your life if that gets given over to -[3547.30 --> 3559.52] something else. Idolatry is always a substitute for who God is supposed to be to you. And let's be really, -[3559.78 --> 3570.62] really clear. Because you see, idolatry isn't about a wooden idol or a golden calf. Idolatry is ultimately -[3570.62 --> 3580.36] about the focus of your heart's affections, right? Or the source of your protection and direction in life. -[3581.44 --> 3587.44] Let me say that again. Idolatry isn't about a wooden idol or a golden calf. Idolatry is about the focus -[3587.44 --> 3594.96] of your heart's affection and the source of your protection and direction in life. And that's true -[3594.96 --> 3599.20] for the Israelites, even in this moment, right? They say in verse 1, -[3601.90 --> 3605.60] come, make us gods who will go before us. -[3606.88 --> 3613.10] Right? This isn't about the calf itself. This is about having something that they can comprehend, -[3613.64 --> 3619.72] having something that they can visualize, go before them and prepare a way for them. About something -[3619.72 --> 3626.54] that they can comprehend and visualize and represent, right? To protect them as they face the wilderness, -[3626.88 --> 3634.56] as they face the desert that surrounds them. Or even in the verses that we've been looking at in -[3634.56 --> 3642.70] verse 7 and 8, right? These are your gods, Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt. Right? They're looking -[3642.70 --> 3649.16] for a thing that they can understand that has provided for them, that has protected them, a thing that they can -[3649.16 --> 3655.70] touch, a thing that they can see as maybe representative of a greater reality that cares for them. -[3657.40 --> 3663.90] And let me be really clear again, right? That longing for transcendence, that longing to be connected -[3663.90 --> 3672.54] to something wholly other, that longing for the spiritual is good and it is right and it is part of -[3672.54 --> 3681.48] what it means to be properly human. The question becomes, to whom is your heart directed? And if it's -[3681.48 --> 3687.74] not God, as revealed in the Bible, the only other choice left is a God of our own making. -[3687.74 --> 3701.90] And to make our own gods simply means to decide for ourselves what things are worth pursuing. -[3702.68 --> 3709.94] To decide for ourselves what the purpose of this life is. To decide for ourselves what ultimately -[3709.94 --> 3717.08] matters. To decide for ourselves the source of our identity and existence in this life and maybe even -[3717.08 --> 3725.60] in the next. Right? In a sort of hierarchy of being, to make our own gods is to actually put ourselves on -[3725.60 --> 3732.78] the top of that hierarchy. For we decide what is worth pursuing. We decide what is worth elevating. -[3732.78 --> 3740.08] We decide where meaning comes from. I toyed with the idea in preparing for this message of having you -[3740.08 --> 3745.04] all pull out your cell phones right now and pull it in front of you and put it on selfie mode and look -[3745.04 --> 3753.46] at what you see. Because that's the number one idol in your life. Not the phone, what you see in it. -[3756.70 --> 3761.20] The spiritual and religious landscape that we live in right now -[3761.20 --> 3770.74] filled with this idea. Society and culture tells us that we make our own gods because we are God. -[3773.20 --> 3779.40] Takes us to the second question. Second point for this morning. What are the gods we make? -[3781.30 --> 3781.52] Now, -[3783.52 --> 3788.14] at the risk of a gross, overt simplification, -[3788.14 --> 3796.44] I want to say that not only for us in the 21st century Western cultural world, but really for all -[3796.44 --> 3801.08] of human history, and that's why I say it, maybe it's a gross oversimplification, but as a student of -[3801.08 --> 3802.48] history, I think this bears out. -[3805.30 --> 3806.78] Making gods -[3806.78 --> 3811.42] for all of human history has been about three things. -[3813.02 --> 3813.50] Peace, -[3814.96 --> 3815.44] power, -[3815.44 --> 3817.20] power, and prosperity. -[3818.94 --> 3819.84] And like I said, -[3820.68 --> 3824.24] we don't have time to get into all the weeds of the religious and philosophical -[3824.24 --> 3828.66] history, but I think it bears it out if we look closely at these three. -[3828.90 --> 3833.34] Whether it's from the Roman pantheon or the Greek pantheon, whether it's the Egyptian pantheon like we -[3833.34 --> 3838.66] might have seen here, whether it's even the Hindu pantheon, or even in the more philosophical -[3838.66 --> 3843.62] traditions and less theistic traditions like Buddhism or Confucianism. -[3843.62 --> 3851.94] The purpose of making our own gods or godlike ideas, in the latter cases, is to secure for ourselves -[3851.94 --> 3857.00] and maybe for our community, peace, power, and prosperity. -[3858.00 --> 3859.42] We all want peace. -[3860.52 --> 3867.06] That is to say, we all long for a measure of completeness, of wholeness, a measure of comfort -[3867.06 --> 3873.04] and of safety, a measure of security in this life for ourselves and for those whom we love. -[3874.02 --> 3874.64] And maybe -[3874.64 --> 3876.46] for a time, -[3876.82 --> 3880.16] right, that desire for peace and for comfort and safety, -[3880.56 --> 3881.28] for security, -[3881.50 --> 3882.40] maybe for a time -[3882.40 --> 3885.66] that God goes by the name of Aphrodite -[3885.66 --> 3887.86] when we locate that in ideas of love. -[3888.46 --> 3891.52] Maybe for a time that God goes by the name of Dionysus -[3891.52 --> 3893.70] when we're looking for parties and for fun. -[3893.70 --> 3899.28] Maybe for a time that God goes by the name of Heket or Hathor from the Egyptian pantheon -[3899.28 --> 3903.40] when we're looking for the fertility of our crops and its harvest season. -[3903.48 --> 3907.00] We want the labor of our hands to provide for the things that we need. -[3909.98 --> 3911.50] But in the world today, -[3911.98 --> 3915.58] I think all we've done is just lost those old names. -[3917.48 --> 3921.44] Because we still idolize comfort and security. -[3921.44 --> 3926.52] We still idolize ease in our lives. -[3927.02 --> 3929.18] I don't care if you come to church once a week, right? -[3929.26 --> 3930.74] You're not immune to this. -[3931.98 --> 3938.72] We live in a world that is built on the very idea that life's purpose is to increase your comfort. -[3940.02 --> 3941.78] Whether that's, you know, a good retirement -[3941.78 --> 3945.08] at 66 or 7 or 8 or 55, -[3945.46 --> 3946.24] if you're lucky enough. -[3946.32 --> 3949.38] Whether it's cottages or bigger houses or better cars. -[3949.38 --> 3955.48] We live in a world that is permeated by the notion that you are supposed to secure your safety, -[3955.98 --> 3958.30] to build up your comfort zones. -[3958.88 --> 3963.54] We live in a world that believes that your life is supposed to be easy, -[3963.70 --> 3966.50] or at minimum, it's supposed to get easier, right? -[3966.50 --> 3969.02] And the truth is, -[3969.08 --> 3969.88] every one of us, -[3970.14 --> 3971.80] from me here standing on stage, -[3971.82 --> 3973.00] to you in your seats, -[3973.06 --> 3973.68] every one of us, -[3973.70 --> 3976.52] no matter how holy and sanctified we might be, -[3976.76 --> 3980.24] every one of us lives in this impulse, -[3980.42 --> 3981.80] in this temptation. -[3983.06 --> 3985.98] And the same is true when it comes to ideas of power. -[3985.98 --> 3992.00] For we are all struggling to eke out our little corner of the world -[3992.00 --> 3994.10] in which to build our little kingdom -[3994.10 --> 3998.26] over which we can sit on the throne as kings or queens. -[3999.20 --> 4002.96] And whether power comes to us as a result of social status -[4002.96 --> 4007.04] or prestige in business or accomplishment through wealth, -[4007.36 --> 4009.88] whether power comes to us from physical strength -[4009.88 --> 4013.90] or a beauty that exceeds the average person around you, -[4014.50 --> 4017.26] whether power comes from an intellectual capacity -[4017.26 --> 4019.50] that exceeds the average person -[4019.50 --> 4021.54] and then looks down on them as a result -[4021.54 --> 4023.22] and demands more of them -[4023.22 --> 4025.84] because you are, after all, better than they are, right? -[4025.88 --> 4028.18] The pursuit of power in the world today -[4028.18 --> 4031.54] may no longer go by the names of Mars or Ares -[4031.54 --> 4033.36] as it did in the Greco-Roman world, -[4034.86 --> 4038.70] but you believe that you have the right -[4038.70 --> 4042.00] to assert yourself and to define yourself. -[4043.26 --> 4044.82] Especially now, and here's why I think -[4044.82 --> 4046.26] this might be the most important message -[4046.26 --> 4047.80] coming out of Exodus for today, -[4048.16 --> 4049.74] especially if you are a teenager -[4049.74 --> 4051.80] or a young adult or a millennial, -[4052.06 --> 4053.94] you are growing up in a world -[4053.94 --> 4057.06] that says you have the power -[4057.06 --> 4059.36] to say this is who I am -[4059.36 --> 4060.96] and you have to accept it. -[4062.42 --> 4062.54] Right? -[4062.66 --> 4065.26] Communal responsibility or external sources -[4065.26 --> 4068.04] of authority or of an identity -[4068.04 --> 4069.02] be damned. -[4069.18 --> 4069.98] None of that matters. -[4070.66 --> 4072.36] All that matters is your power -[4072.36 --> 4074.58] to be whomever you say you are. -[4078.10 --> 4078.66] Finally, -[4079.26 --> 4081.90] we make our own gods -[4081.90 --> 4084.44] in the pursuit of peace, -[4084.70 --> 4086.36] power, and prosperity. -[4087.50 --> 4089.92] Prosperity itself is a kind of god, -[4090.26 --> 4092.20] but how we define the good life -[4092.20 --> 4094.50] and what makes life worth living -[4094.50 --> 4095.52] comes out of this, right? -[4095.52 --> 4098.28] How we define what makes us who we are -[4098.28 --> 4099.72] and what is included -[4099.72 --> 4101.58] in the sphere of influence -[4101.58 --> 4103.54] to determine or shape that reality -[4103.54 --> 4105.66] is part of the prosperity -[4105.66 --> 4107.32] we are chasing after. -[4108.20 --> 4109.14] And so maybe -[4109.14 --> 4111.44] it's a golden calf, right? -[4111.48 --> 4113.60] That is a symbol itself of wealth -[4113.60 --> 4115.36] as gold earrings are collected -[4115.36 --> 4116.36] and jewelry is collected -[4116.36 --> 4117.70] and it's melted down and made. -[4117.94 --> 4119.80] Or maybe it's the pursuit of -[4119.80 --> 4122.62] artha and kama as in Hinduism -[4122.62 --> 4124.42] or to make the point again -[4124.42 --> 4125.78] that this doesn't have to be about -[4125.78 --> 4128.46] gods in the divine being sense. -[4129.44 --> 4130.24] In Buddhism, -[4130.60 --> 4132.18] there is a concept called -[4132.18 --> 4133.86] jingilob, -[4134.00 --> 4135.26] which translates to -[4135.26 --> 4137.46] transformation through inspiration. -[4137.88 --> 4139.14] The idea here -[4139.14 --> 4140.88] is that we have to tune ourselves -[4140.88 --> 4142.00] more deliberately -[4142.00 --> 4144.68] and to be open to the blessings -[4144.68 --> 4146.66] that the universe has for us -[4146.66 --> 4148.54] and to be able to receive them. -[4148.54 --> 4150.54] Again, the root of all this -[4150.54 --> 4151.56] that ties it all together -[4151.56 --> 4155.00] is your or my personal prosperity. -[4156.54 --> 4157.72] And as Christians -[4157.72 --> 4159.22] in the West, -[4159.88 --> 4161.18] in the 21st century, -[4161.56 --> 4163.14] we are just as guilty -[4163.14 --> 4165.08] of this idolatry. -[4166.88 --> 4168.78] Wrote a devotional this past week -[4168.78 --> 4170.74] on Psalm 126 -[4170.74 --> 4172.54] that hits on that point a little bit. -[4172.60 --> 4173.92] You can find it on the church website. -[4174.72 --> 4175.72] I'm not going to labor that point -[4175.72 --> 4176.32] too much more. -[4176.32 --> 4179.10] The point then -[4179.10 --> 4182.46] that pulls all these things together -[4182.46 --> 4182.98] is, -[4183.06 --> 4184.10] and I think, like I said, -[4184.16 --> 4185.28] that human history confirms, -[4185.96 --> 4187.94] we make our own gods -[4187.94 --> 4189.90] because we are trying to pursue -[4189.90 --> 4191.18] our own peace -[4191.18 --> 4192.06] and our own power -[4192.06 --> 4193.30] and our own prosperity. -[4193.82 --> 4195.22] In these three things, -[4195.30 --> 4196.72] we think we have meaning -[4196.72 --> 4198.68] and purpose in the world. -[4198.74 --> 4199.86] And in these three things, -[4199.96 --> 4201.10] we find value. -[4201.24 --> 4202.26] And in these three things, -[4202.34 --> 4204.86] we place our heart's affections. -[4204.86 --> 4208.24] And in all reality, -[4208.64 --> 4211.08] I believe that is because -[4211.08 --> 4212.30] we were created -[4212.30 --> 4213.76] to find peace -[4213.76 --> 4215.74] and to find and know -[4215.74 --> 4216.96] and have power -[4216.96 --> 4218.50] and to find prosperity -[4218.50 --> 4220.90] in relationship to God -[4220.90 --> 4222.10] through Jesus Christ. -[4223.00 --> 4223.94] And now to be clear, -[4224.20 --> 4225.66] we will define peace -[4225.66 --> 4227.00] in a particularly new -[4227.00 --> 4228.58] and transcendent way. -[4228.58 --> 4229.64] We will define power -[4229.64 --> 4231.52] in a whole particularly -[4231.52 --> 4232.66] humbling, -[4233.08 --> 4233.46] serving, -[4233.82 --> 4234.80] giving way. -[4234.92 --> 4236.18] And we will define prosperity -[4236.18 --> 4237.44] in an other-centered, -[4237.64 --> 4238.44] agape love, -[4238.52 --> 4240.14] that's unconditional love -[4240.14 --> 4240.72] kind of way, -[4240.98 --> 4242.14] a merciful way -[4242.14 --> 4244.10] and a full of mercy way. -[4244.10 --> 4246.32] actually, -[4246.88 --> 4251.54] we will let God -[4251.54 --> 4253.30] define those things -[4253.30 --> 4254.62] by his word -[4254.62 --> 4256.22] and by his revelation. -[4257.56 --> 4258.82] But in actuality, -[4259.22 --> 4260.12] the difference between -[4260.12 --> 4261.46] what is true and right -[4261.46 --> 4262.98] and what we were created for -[4262.98 --> 4265.04] and the gods of our own making -[4265.04 --> 4267.48] is that we will let God himself, -[4267.66 --> 4268.52] the transcendent, -[4268.64 --> 4270.16] holy and holy other being, -[4270.54 --> 4271.74] speak the truth -[4271.74 --> 4273.12] about who we are, -[4273.12 --> 4274.70] about what our purpose is -[4274.70 --> 4276.30] and about how we find meaning. -[4276.90 --> 4279.16] He will speak identity to us -[4279.16 --> 4281.70] and we must submit. -[4283.26 --> 4285.06] And it's in submitting now -[4285.06 --> 4286.60] to his truth, -[4286.90 --> 4288.80] it's in submitting to his will -[4288.80 --> 4289.78] for our lives -[4289.78 --> 4291.02] and in seeing ourself -[4291.02 --> 4293.86] in true relationship to him -[4293.86 --> 4294.88] as creator -[4294.88 --> 4296.46] and we as creature -[4296.46 --> 4298.02] that we can actually, -[4298.52 --> 4299.10] meaningfully, -[4299.54 --> 4300.34] lastingly -[4300.34 --> 4302.00] find peace -[4302.00 --> 4303.02] and power -[4303.02 --> 4304.28] and prosperity. -[4309.96 --> 4310.84] Whenever you -[4310.84 --> 4312.56] grasp after -[4312.56 --> 4314.84] what can only come from God, -[4315.18 --> 4316.56] it's like a reaching out, -[4316.62 --> 4318.02] says the author of Ecclesiastes, -[4318.42 --> 4319.10] a reaching out -[4319.10 --> 4320.36] and chasing after the wind. -[4321.02 --> 4321.20] Right? -[4321.24 --> 4322.16] You chase after the wind, -[4322.24 --> 4322.72] you reach out -[4322.72 --> 4323.36] and you grab it -[4323.36 --> 4324.30] and you look to see -[4324.30 --> 4324.86] what's there. -[4325.96 --> 4326.70] It's nothing. -[4326.70 --> 4326.74] It's nothing. -[4326.74 --> 4335.66] I want you to have something. -[4336.28 --> 4337.72] I want you to grab hold -[4337.72 --> 4338.36] of something -[4338.36 --> 4339.22] and to know -[4339.22 --> 4340.00] and to live -[4340.00 --> 4341.24] the very purpose -[4341.24 --> 4342.62] for which you were created. -[4343.06 --> 4345.04] I want you to grab hold of God -[4345.04 --> 4347.06] and in grabbing hold of God, -[4347.56 --> 4348.84] in grabbing hold of God, -[4348.90 --> 4350.00] I want you to turn around -[4350.00 --> 4350.74] and to look -[4350.74 --> 4351.48] and to realize -[4351.48 --> 4352.36] in that moment -[4352.36 --> 4353.96] that he has first -[4353.96 --> 4354.90] grabbed hold of you, -[4355.50 --> 4357.14] that he has called you -[4357.14 --> 4357.82] his own, -[4358.08 --> 4359.36] that he has made you -[4359.36 --> 4360.06] his son -[4360.06 --> 4360.86] or daughter. -[4362.24 --> 4363.64] And for you to grab hold -[4363.64 --> 4364.56] of that truth -[4364.56 --> 4365.26] today, -[4366.62 --> 4370.30] you to be grabbed hold -[4370.30 --> 4371.96] of by that truth -[4371.96 --> 4372.82] today. -[4372.82 --> 4375.10] We need to know -[4375.10 --> 4375.58] why it is -[4375.58 --> 4376.20] that we make -[4376.20 --> 4377.42] these gods -[4377.42 --> 4378.92] of our own making. -[4379.46 --> 4380.16] We need to know -[4380.16 --> 4380.52] why it is -[4380.52 --> 4381.24] that we pursue -[4381.24 --> 4382.82] other and lesser -[4382.82 --> 4383.74] glories. -[4384.38 --> 4385.84] That's our third question. -[4385.96 --> 4386.18] Again, -[4386.54 --> 4387.30] look at verse 1. -[4389.30 --> 4390.28] When the people saw -[4390.28 --> 4390.90] that Moses -[4390.90 --> 4391.94] was so long -[4391.94 --> 4392.64] in coming down -[4392.64 --> 4393.34] from the mountain, -[4393.86 --> 4394.94] they gathered around Aaron -[4394.94 --> 4395.38] and said, -[4395.52 --> 4395.76] come, -[4396.22 --> 4397.30] make us gods -[4397.30 --> 4397.96] who will go -[4397.96 --> 4398.96] before us. -[4398.96 --> 4399.66] As for this fellow, -[4399.78 --> 4400.04] Moses, -[4400.16 --> 4400.88] who has brought us up -[4400.88 --> 4401.36] out of Egypt, -[4401.88 --> 4402.40] we don't know -[4402.40 --> 4403.32] what has befallen him. -[4403.60 --> 4403.94] We don't know -[4403.94 --> 4404.42] what has happened -[4404.42 --> 4404.80] to him. -[4406.84 --> 4407.10] Now, -[4408.22 --> 4409.08] what you need to know -[4409.08 --> 4409.96] is that -[4409.96 --> 4411.76] this story -[4411.76 --> 4413.22] follows on the heels -[4413.22 --> 4414.00] of the story -[4414.00 --> 4415.60] in Exodus 24. -[4416.06 --> 4416.52] You can read -[4416.52 --> 4417.32] that story later. -[4417.44 --> 4418.04] It's about Moses -[4418.04 --> 4418.74] going up -[4418.74 --> 4419.70] to the mountain -[4419.70 --> 4420.54] with Joshua -[4420.54 --> 4421.20] and elders -[4421.20 --> 4422.66] and they leave -[4422.66 --> 4423.36] the people down. -[4423.46 --> 4423.80] They have set -[4423.80 --> 4424.28] a perimeter -[4424.28 --> 4425.02] around the base -[4425.02 --> 4425.38] of the mountain. -[4425.48 --> 4425.72] They say, -[4425.72 --> 4426.88] don't come any further -[4426.88 --> 4427.44] than this. -[4428.30 --> 4429.08] And when Moses -[4429.08 --> 4430.22] reaches the top -[4430.22 --> 4430.84] of the mountain, -[4430.96 --> 4431.92] the glory of God -[4431.92 --> 4433.20] descends in a cloud -[4433.20 --> 4433.84] with lightning -[4433.84 --> 4434.60] and power -[4434.60 --> 4435.90] and a massive display -[4435.90 --> 4436.76] and the people -[4436.76 --> 4438.18] see Moses disappear. -[4439.36 --> 4440.68] Exodus 24, 18 -[4440.68 --> 4441.72] says that Moses -[4441.72 --> 4442.56] was on the mountain -[4442.56 --> 4443.80] for 40 days -[4443.80 --> 4445.10] and 40 nights. -[4445.96 --> 4446.44] Now, -[4446.50 --> 4446.88] that means -[4446.88 --> 4447.34] by the time -[4447.34 --> 4447.76] we get now -[4447.76 --> 4448.72] to chapter 32, -[4449.20 --> 4449.94] he's been gone -[4449.94 --> 4450.80] for a little while. -[4452.12 --> 4452.32] Right? -[4452.34 --> 4452.90] He's been away -[4452.90 --> 4453.66] from their presence. -[4456.14 --> 4456.28] Now, -[4457.12 --> 4458.62] situate yourself -[4458.62 --> 4460.04] in this story. -[4461.22 --> 4461.88] For the past -[4461.88 --> 4463.06] three or now -[4463.06 --> 4463.96] four months -[4463.96 --> 4465.52] as the people -[4465.52 --> 4466.46] have left Egypt -[4466.46 --> 4467.68] after seeing God -[4467.68 --> 4468.46] murk in power -[4468.46 --> 4469.34] through the plagues, -[4469.72 --> 4469.84] right, -[4469.88 --> 4470.32] they have seen -[4470.32 --> 4471.88] miracle after miracle -[4471.88 --> 4473.00] after miracle. -[4474.08 --> 4474.94] And now, -[4475.12 --> 4476.26] for 40 days, -[4476.62 --> 4477.50] they've not seen -[4477.50 --> 4478.64] a display of power. -[4478.76 --> 4479.54] They've not seen -[4479.54 --> 4480.44] a change. -[4480.54 --> 4481.40] They've not seen -[4481.40 --> 4483.12] something happen. -[4484.36 --> 4485.22] And I think -[4485.22 --> 4486.74] that in this, -[4486.90 --> 4487.64] there is a principle -[4487.64 --> 4488.58] for our understanding. -[4492.56 --> 4493.40] Principle for our -[4493.40 --> 4493.84] understanding -[4493.84 --> 4495.26] about the danger -[4495.26 --> 4496.76] of a faith -[4496.76 --> 4497.62] and a relationship -[4497.62 --> 4498.24] to God -[4498.24 --> 4499.38] that is based -[4499.38 --> 4500.92] on only -[4500.92 --> 4502.80] displays of power, -[4503.24 --> 4503.86] that is based -[4503.86 --> 4504.76] on only -[4504.76 --> 4506.48] emotional highs -[4506.48 --> 4508.26] or experientialism. -[4509.42 --> 4509.54] Right? -[4509.56 --> 4510.42] I think sometimes -[4510.42 --> 4511.48] that we -[4511.48 --> 4512.70] in the -[4512.70 --> 4513.50] sort of broader -[4513.50 --> 4514.52] evangelical -[4514.52 --> 4515.66] Protestant world -[4515.66 --> 4516.66] have defined -[4516.66 --> 4517.32] our faith -[4517.32 --> 4518.06] based on -[4518.06 --> 4518.52] what we -[4518.52 --> 4519.34] feel. -[4520.64 --> 4521.16] And if you don't -[4521.16 --> 4522.10] feel something -[4522.10 --> 4522.74] particularly -[4522.74 --> 4523.58] poignant -[4523.58 --> 4524.62] or exciting -[4524.62 --> 4525.82] in worship, -[4526.00 --> 4526.54] if you're not -[4526.54 --> 4527.26] crying -[4527.26 --> 4528.06] week in -[4528.06 --> 4529.10] and week out, -[4529.14 --> 4529.48] if you're not -[4529.48 --> 4530.48] raising your hands -[4530.48 --> 4531.34] as we are led -[4531.34 --> 4532.72] by our amazing -[4532.72 --> 4533.84] worship teams, -[4534.84 --> 4535.88] that something -[4535.88 --> 4536.88] isn't real -[4536.88 --> 4537.80] for you then -[4537.80 --> 4538.42] or that your -[4538.42 --> 4538.92] faith is -[4538.92 --> 4539.96] waning -[4539.96 --> 4541.02] or gone -[4541.02 --> 4541.66] or it's -[4541.66 --> 4542.16] inadequate. -[4542.86 --> 4543.76] But the reality -[4543.76 --> 4544.06] is, -[4544.10 --> 4544.48] what we're beginning -[4544.48 --> 4545.08] to see here -[4545.08 --> 4546.12] is that a faith -[4546.12 --> 4546.92] that is based -[4546.92 --> 4547.84] on displays -[4547.84 --> 4548.94] of power -[4548.94 --> 4549.66] will not -[4549.66 --> 4550.90] weather 40 days -[4550.90 --> 4551.92] of seeming absence. -[4552.44 --> 4553.10] It will not -[4553.10 --> 4553.84] endure when -[4553.84 --> 4554.50] your assumptions -[4554.50 --> 4555.34] crumble. -[4555.64 --> 4556.56] This kind of faith -[4556.56 --> 4557.12] that is based -[4557.12 --> 4558.20] on experientialism -[4558.20 --> 4558.92] or emotivism -[4558.92 --> 4560.84] will not last -[4560.84 --> 4561.64] through the dark -[4561.64 --> 4562.28] night of the soul. -[4563.54 --> 4564.54] If the truth -[4564.54 --> 4565.24] of your faith -[4565.24 --> 4566.14] is based on -[4566.14 --> 4566.64] being able -[4566.64 --> 4567.54] to see Moses, -[4568.54 --> 4569.94] you're missing God. -[4569.94 --> 4569.98] God. -[4572.54 --> 4573.50] And really, -[4573.86 --> 4575.98] it's no wonder -[4575.98 --> 4576.66] that people -[4576.66 --> 4577.60] decided to -[4577.60 --> 4578.62] create a God -[4578.62 --> 4579.52] that they could -[4579.52 --> 4580.94] see after that. -[4581.60 --> 4582.26] Because that's -[4582.26 --> 4582.84] what we do. -[4583.92 --> 4584.76] Since we are -[4584.76 --> 4585.80] created to be -[4585.80 --> 4586.74] with God -[4586.74 --> 4587.44] when we are -[4587.44 --> 4587.86] not, -[4588.18 --> 4588.90] other things -[4588.90 --> 4589.42] or people -[4589.42 --> 4590.12] or ideas -[4590.12 --> 4591.02] will rush in -[4591.02 --> 4591.76] to fill that -[4591.76 --> 4592.14] gap. -[4592.44 --> 4592.80] And so, -[4592.98 --> 4593.44] we make -[4593.44 --> 4594.06] our own -[4594.06 --> 4594.90] gods. -[4597.70 --> 4598.20] And I think -[4598.20 --> 4599.62] us too, -[4599.62 --> 4599.98] there's -[4599.98 --> 4601.36] another -[4601.36 --> 4601.92] principle -[4601.92 --> 4603.28] that emerges -[4603.28 --> 4604.78] from this -[4604.78 --> 4605.14] story. -[4605.60 --> 4605.86] And you -[4605.86 --> 4607.38] can see it -[4607.38 --> 4607.66] at this -[4607.66 --> 4607.94] point, -[4608.34 --> 4608.58] right? -[4611.68 --> 4612.32] What the -[4612.32 --> 4612.86] Israelites are -[4612.86 --> 4613.32] learning and -[4613.32 --> 4613.52] what we're -[4613.52 --> 4614.10] seeing here -[4614.10 --> 4615.24] is that you -[4615.24 --> 4615.86] can't go -[4615.86 --> 4616.68] 40 days -[4616.68 --> 4617.30] without seeing -[4617.30 --> 4617.72] God or -[4617.72 --> 4618.54] without being -[4618.54 --> 4619.16] in relationship -[4619.16 --> 4619.88] meaningfully to -[4619.88 --> 4620.74] Him and then -[4620.74 --> 4621.58] assume that -[4621.58 --> 4621.94] the next -[4621.94 --> 4622.52] decision you -[4622.52 --> 4623.76] make will -[4623.76 --> 4624.18] be the right -[4624.18 --> 4624.44] one. -[4625.40 --> 4626.16] Or even a -[4626.16 --> 4626.52] good one. -[4627.42 --> 4628.12] And what I -[4628.12 --> 4629.00] mean by that -[4629.00 --> 4629.60] is that if -[4629.60 --> 4630.26] you think, -[4630.38 --> 4630.92] for instance, -[4631.76 --> 4632.08] here's an -[4632.08 --> 4632.52] off-the-cuff -[4632.52 --> 4632.74] one, -[4633.02 --> 4633.56] that coming -[4633.56 --> 4633.96] to church -[4633.96 --> 4634.38] once a -[4634.38 --> 4635.72] month or -[4635.72 --> 4636.10] once in a -[4636.10 --> 4637.00] while is -[4637.00 --> 4637.58] enough to -[4637.58 --> 4638.46] dethrone the -[4638.46 --> 4638.98] idols that -[4638.98 --> 4639.24] have been -[4639.24 --> 4639.86] built up on -[4639.86 --> 4640.38] your heart -[4640.38 --> 4641.88] and to keep -[4641.88 --> 4642.54] Jesus there, -[4643.54 --> 4644.24] you might be -[4644.24 --> 4644.62] missing the -[4644.62 --> 4644.94] point. -[4645.96 --> 4646.32] But if you -[4646.32 --> 4646.70] think that -[4646.70 --> 4647.18] paying lip -[4647.18 --> 4647.78] service every -[4647.78 --> 4648.20] once in a -[4648.20 --> 4648.60] while and -[4648.60 --> 4648.96] singing a -[4648.96 --> 4649.48] couple songs, -[4649.86 --> 4650.38] listening to -[4650.38 --> 4651.10] a mediocre -[4651.10 --> 4651.72] sermon and -[4651.72 --> 4652.02] then maybe -[4652.02 --> 4652.68] donating to -[4652.68 --> 4653.08] the church -[4653.08 --> 4653.56] chairs and -[4653.56 --> 4654.20] squares fund -[4654.20 --> 4654.96] is enough -[4654.96 --> 4655.76] to cancel -[4655.76 --> 4656.22] out the -[4656.22 --> 4656.92] formative power -[4656.92 --> 4657.48] of all the -[4657.48 --> 4657.98] gods that -[4657.98 --> 4659.04] are pulling -[4659.04 --> 4659.74] your heart in -[4659.74 --> 4660.30] this direction -[4660.30 --> 4660.74] and that -[4660.74 --> 4661.30] direction in -[4661.30 --> 4661.76] this modern -[4661.76 --> 4662.18] world, -[4664.18 --> 4665.00] sorry to -[4665.00 --> 4666.14] say, but -[4666.14 --> 4666.64] it's not. -[4668.28 --> 4669.94] You, we, -[4670.32 --> 4671.40] have become the -[4671.40 --> 4672.58] Israelites making -[4672.58 --> 4673.60] a golden calf. -[4673.60 --> 4676.06] And look, -[4676.72 --> 4678.40] this is the -[4678.40 --> 4679.10] sort of thing -[4679.10 --> 4679.80] that we get -[4679.80 --> 4681.44] really good at -[4681.44 --> 4683.34] self-justifying in -[4683.34 --> 4684.00] our own lives. -[4684.64 --> 4685.52] The Israelites did -[4685.52 --> 4686.28] this in our -[4686.28 --> 4686.70] story. -[4687.12 --> 4688.32] Aaron cast this -[4688.32 --> 4689.38] gold idol for -[4689.38 --> 4690.40] them into the -[4690.40 --> 4691.12] shape of an idol -[4691.12 --> 4691.80] and then we -[4691.80 --> 4692.40] read, did you -[4692.40 --> 4693.08] notice that, that -[4693.08 --> 4693.96] he fashioned it -[4693.96 --> 4694.66] with a tool. -[4696.10 --> 4697.02] His hands were -[4697.02 --> 4698.06] involved in making -[4698.06 --> 4698.28] it. -[4698.52 --> 4698.98] Now if you were -[4698.98 --> 4699.58] to read the rest -[4699.58 --> 4700.12] of the story, -[4700.22 --> 4700.66] there's this really -[4700.66 --> 4701.48] interesting part where -[4701.48 --> 4702.26] Moses comes down -[4702.26 --> 4702.72] and says, Aaron, -[4702.78 --> 4703.42] what have you done? -[4703.60 --> 4704.30] And Aaron says, -[4704.60 --> 4705.42] look, I just took -[4705.42 --> 4706.14] the gold, I threw -[4706.14 --> 4706.78] it in the fire and -[4706.78 --> 4707.52] a calf came out. -[4709.08 --> 4709.94] Right, he absolves -[4709.94 --> 4710.40] himself of -[4710.40 --> 4710.88] responsibility. -[4711.28 --> 4712.22] We are really good -[4712.22 --> 4713.74] at self-justifying -[4713.74 --> 4714.80] the creation of -[4714.80 --> 4715.96] our own idols. -[4717.20 --> 4717.80] But then he says -[4717.80 --> 4718.30] to the people, -[4718.64 --> 4719.34] these are your -[4719.34 --> 4720.40] gods, Israel, who -[4720.40 --> 4721.14] brought you out -[4721.14 --> 4721.92] of Egypt. -[4722.46 --> 4722.88] And then in -[4722.88 --> 4723.46] verse 5, -[4724.84 --> 4725.64] right, when Aaron -[4725.64 --> 4726.54] sees the people -[4726.54 --> 4727.60] respond to this, -[4728.28 --> 4729.80] Aaron, when Aaron -[4729.80 --> 4730.80] saw this, he built -[4730.80 --> 4731.78] an altar in front -[4731.78 --> 4733.00] of the calf and -[4733.00 --> 4733.48] announced, -[4733.96 --> 4734.58] tomorrow there -[4734.58 --> 4735.04] will be a -[4735.04 --> 4735.74] festival to the -[4735.74 --> 4736.00] Lord. -[4736.78 --> 4737.38] And so the next -[4737.38 --> 4738.02] day, the people -[4738.02 --> 4738.90] rose early and -[4738.90 --> 4739.64] sacrificed burnt -[4739.64 --> 4740.28] offerings and -[4740.28 --> 4741.52] presented offerings -[4741.52 --> 4742.42] and afterward they -[4742.42 --> 4743.36] sat down to eat -[4743.36 --> 4744.36] and drink and got -[4744.36 --> 4745.86] up to indulge in -[4745.86 --> 4746.26] revelry. -[4747.86 --> 4749.06] Right, Aaron sees -[4749.06 --> 4749.74] what they're doing -[4749.74 --> 4750.66] and builds them -[4750.66 --> 4752.16] this altar, this -[4752.16 --> 4752.86] calf, and then he -[4752.86 --> 4753.78] builds another altar -[4753.78 --> 4755.32] and says that there -[4755.32 --> 4756.06] will be a festival -[4756.06 --> 4756.68] to the Lord. -[4757.02 --> 4757.72] Now in this text, -[4757.80 --> 4758.52] it's fascinating if -[4758.52 --> 4759.18] your Bibles are open, -[4759.42 --> 4759.96] you will see that -[4759.96 --> 4760.80] Lord is there in -[4760.80 --> 4761.36] all caps. -[4762.24 --> 4762.86] Right, the covenant -[4762.86 --> 4763.66] name of God. -[4764.68 --> 4766.44] And so maybe, maybe, -[4766.62 --> 4767.12] if we want to give -[4767.12 --> 4767.84] Aaron the benefit of -[4767.84 --> 4769.02] the doubt, maybe he's -[4769.02 --> 4770.04] realizing that he's -[4770.04 --> 4771.00] done something wrong, -[4771.30 --> 4772.30] that he's divided the -[4772.30 --> 4773.44] people's affections from -[4773.44 --> 4774.76] the Lord to now this -[4774.76 --> 4775.78] calf and whatever it -[4775.78 --> 4776.22] represents. -[4776.62 --> 4777.66] And so he says, oh, -[4777.70 --> 4778.28] we've got to pull that -[4778.28 --> 4779.00] back so we're going to -[4779.00 --> 4779.78] host a festival. -[4780.60 --> 4781.42] And maybe he has other -[4781.42 --> 4782.84] ideas or motives, we -[4782.84 --> 4783.98] can't know, but what -[4783.98 --> 4785.44] matters to me and for -[4785.44 --> 4786.54] us in this story is what -[4786.54 --> 4787.42] the people do in -[4787.42 --> 4787.90] response. -[4787.90 --> 4789.74] Right, the next day -[4789.74 --> 4790.78] the people rose early -[4790.78 --> 4791.86] and sacrificed burnt -[4791.86 --> 4792.84] offerings and presented -[4792.84 --> 4793.80] fellowship offerings. -[4794.88 --> 4795.30] Do you remember the -[4795.30 --> 4796.08] previous chapters that -[4796.08 --> 4796.68] we've just been looking -[4796.68 --> 4796.92] at? -[4797.66 --> 4798.64] Right, the whole story -[4798.64 --> 4799.84] about how the temple -[4799.84 --> 4800.58] was to, or the -[4800.58 --> 4801.46] tabernacle was to be -[4801.46 --> 4802.04] built and how the -[4802.04 --> 4802.68] things were supposed to -[4802.68 --> 4803.52] be done and practiced -[4803.52 --> 4804.02] within it? -[4804.98 --> 4806.70] The people ask Aaron to -[4806.70 --> 4808.26] make them an altar, an -[4808.26 --> 4809.50] idol, and he builds them -[4809.50 --> 4810.68] an altar to go with that -[4810.68 --> 4811.56] idol and then they -[4811.56 --> 4812.68] sacrifice burnt -[4812.68 --> 4813.04] offerings. -[4813.34 --> 4814.26] What I mean is, they -[4814.26 --> 4815.04] did all the right -[4815.04 --> 4815.92] religious things. -[4815.92 --> 4817.38] They did all the -[4817.38 --> 4818.84] right rituals that God -[4818.84 --> 4819.74] had instructed them to -[4819.74 --> 4821.12] do and then afterward -[4821.12 --> 4822.42] they sat down to eat -[4822.42 --> 4823.46] and drink and got up to -[4823.46 --> 4824.78] indulge in revelry. -[4825.08 --> 4825.88] Right, on the one hand -[4825.88 --> 4826.76] they did all the right -[4826.76 --> 4827.96] things, on the other -[4827.96 --> 4828.72] hand the sort of -[4828.72 --> 4830.26] frivolity that comes to -[4830.26 --> 4831.84] the aftermath undercuts -[4831.84 --> 4833.26] the severity of their -[4833.26 --> 4834.68] actions and suggests -[4834.68 --> 4835.94] that actually they -[4835.94 --> 4837.12] aren't really concerned -[4837.12 --> 4838.30] with what the Lord has -[4838.30 --> 4838.88] asked of them. -[4839.96 --> 4840.96] Right, there's a sort of -[4840.96 --> 4843.34] syncretism, a blending -[4843.34 --> 4845.20] of priorities and -[4845.20 --> 4846.46] definitions of peace -[4846.46 --> 4847.64] and power and -[4847.64 --> 4848.90] prosperity as God -[4848.90 --> 4850.02] would define them and -[4850.02 --> 4850.64] then as the world -[4850.64 --> 4851.84] around them defines -[4851.84 --> 4853.22] them and it seems -[4853.22 --> 4854.86] perfectly acceptable to -[4854.86 --> 4855.08] them. -[4856.78 --> 4858.12] This is our danger. -[4860.12 --> 4861.20] They are unaware -[4861.20 --> 4862.94] what's going on. -[4863.20 --> 4864.16] Aaron, their spiritual -[4864.16 --> 4865.36] leader at this point, -[4865.44 --> 4866.08] right, like we said, is -[4866.08 --> 4867.06] either unaware himself -[4867.06 --> 4868.72] or he's unable to get -[4868.72 --> 4869.62] a hold of the people's -[4869.62 --> 4870.62] wandering lusts and to -[4870.62 --> 4872.04] redirect them and so they -[4872.04 --> 4872.56] go on. -[4873.06 --> 4874.44] The danger of self -[4874.44 --> 4875.90] justification of the -[4875.90 --> 4877.54] gods that we make is -[4877.54 --> 4879.08] ours too. -[4883.00 --> 4884.40] I just want to be happy, -[4885.08 --> 4885.34] pastor. -[4886.48 --> 4887.94] You can't stop me from -[4887.94 --> 4888.92] doing what I love. -[4889.72 --> 4890.78] I'm not hurting anyone. -[4892.40 --> 4894.36] I deserve to be able to -[4894.36 --> 4895.10] get what I want. -[4895.70 --> 4897.64] I deserve to be whoever I -[4897.64 --> 4898.36] want to be. -[4899.94 --> 4900.92] I do what you love. -[4902.04 --> 4903.54] Grind in that hustle and -[4903.54 --> 4904.60] bustle through with your -[4904.60 --> 4905.90] side hustle so that you -[4905.90 --> 4907.48] can get everything you -[4907.48 --> 4907.88] need. -[4909.78 --> 4911.36] I can get everything I -[4911.36 --> 4913.22] want and you can't get -[4913.22 --> 4914.50] in my way. -[4917.00 --> 4918.96] That is the gospel of -[4918.96 --> 4920.54] modern paganism, of -[4920.54 --> 4921.96] expressive individualism. -[4922.12 --> 4923.54] That is the gospel of the -[4923.54 --> 4925.52] culture around us and it's -[4925.52 --> 4926.38] being preached from -[4926.38 --> 4927.82] platforms far more -[4927.82 --> 4929.28] pervasive and effective -[4929.28 --> 4930.84] than this stage will ever -[4930.84 --> 4931.18] be. -[4932.62 --> 4934.28] And because of its cultural -[4934.28 --> 4935.52] ubiquity in the world -[4935.52 --> 4937.34] today, sometimes, most of -[4937.34 --> 4938.44] the time, we don't even -[4938.44 --> 4939.12] see it. -[4939.30 --> 4940.30] We don't even realize that -[4940.30 --> 4941.20] we are hearing it. -[4941.38 --> 4942.40] We don't even know that it -[4942.40 --> 4943.44] is shaping us. -[4943.84 --> 4945.58] We don't even notice when -[4945.58 --> 4947.84] it is wedded to our so-called -[4947.84 --> 4950.22] Christian gospel and then in -[4950.22 --> 4951.72] effect has changed the gospel -[4951.72 --> 4953.64] of Jesus to be something it is -[4953.64 --> 4954.04] not. -[4954.04 --> 4960.02] Like Paul says so powerfully -[4960.02 --> 4961.40] in his letter to the -[4961.40 --> 4963.24] Galatians, whenever you -[4963.24 --> 4964.82] change the gospel, either by -[4964.82 --> 4966.34] adding to it or by removing -[4966.34 --> 4968.38] from it, you nullify it. -[4969.54 --> 4970.94] It is either the whole gospel -[4970.94 --> 4972.92] or it is no gospel at all. -[4979.06 --> 4980.20] The whole gospel. -[4984.04 --> 4987.20] Before the world began. -[4988.48 --> 4989.94] Before God even said, let -[4989.94 --> 4991.26] there be light. -[4991.64 --> 4993.68] He knew he wanted a people -[4993.68 --> 4995.94] for himself to be glorified -[4995.94 --> 4997.84] by them because he is most -[4997.84 --> 4999.06] worthy of praise. -[4999.58 --> 5001.16] He is most worthy to be -[5001.16 --> 5001.74] glorified. -[5002.16 --> 5004.08] And even when he created and -[5004.08 --> 5005.76] made the land and the sea, the -[5005.76 --> 5007.82] birds of the air and all the -[5007.82 --> 5009.94] animals, even when he had made -[5009.94 --> 5012.14] humans in his image, he knew. -[5012.14 --> 5014.46] He knew that they would sin -[5014.46 --> 5015.36] and that they would wander -[5015.36 --> 5016.22] away from him. -[5016.54 --> 5020.08] But God so loved his creation -[5020.08 --> 5023.74] that he made a promise and he -[5023.74 --> 5024.34] persisted. -[5025.64 --> 5027.36] And so in the story of the -[5027.36 --> 5029.04] world and of history, right, our -[5029.04 --> 5030.52] first parents did sin. -[5031.10 --> 5032.78] And because of that sin, all -[5032.78 --> 5034.92] humanity is marked by our -[5034.92 --> 5036.50] rebellion against God. -[5036.68 --> 5038.44] And the truth of the Bible now -[5038.44 --> 5040.24] is that even though we are more -[5040.24 --> 5042.74] sinful than we would ever dare -[5042.74 --> 5043.90] admit or even though we are -[5043.90 --> 5045.12] more sinful than we could ever -[5045.12 --> 5047.72] realize because God is so -[5047.72 --> 5050.28] holy, his holiness demands -[5050.28 --> 5052.40] absolute perfection and he is -[5052.40 --> 5054.26] justified in that because he is -[5054.26 --> 5054.64] God. -[5056.64 --> 5060.32] And yet, even though the wages of -[5060.32 --> 5063.78] sin is death, we are yet more -[5063.78 --> 5066.44] loved by God than we could ever -[5066.44 --> 5068.18] imagine possible. -[5068.94 --> 5071.32] And that love of God from before -[5071.32 --> 5073.28] creation, in fact, that love of -[5073.28 --> 5075.62] God, which is the overflow of his -[5075.62 --> 5077.24] love that caused him to create, -[5077.52 --> 5079.44] that love that God had before the -[5079.44 --> 5081.56] foundation of the world includes -[5081.56 --> 5083.98] you by grace through faith. -[5084.24 --> 5087.04] And out of that love, Jesus, God -[5087.04 --> 5088.94] himself, the eternal word, the -[5088.94 --> 5091.32] second person of the Trinity, came -[5091.32 --> 5092.42] into the world. -[5092.42 --> 5095.18] Jesus came into the world as an -[5095.18 --> 5095.94] infant. -[5096.14 --> 5099.06] God emptied himself of his power and -[5099.06 --> 5102.14] was born as servant. -[5105.04 --> 5108.04] The same Jesus lived the life I -[5108.04 --> 5110.76] should have lived, satisfying God's -[5110.76 --> 5112.02] righteous demands. -[5112.78 --> 5115.22] The same Jesus died the death that I -[5115.22 --> 5117.76] deserve because of my sin. -[5117.96 --> 5120.38] And this same Jesus was raised three -[5120.38 --> 5123.54] days later, victorious over sin and -[5123.54 --> 5123.78] death. -[5123.88 --> 5125.62] And his resurrection changes -[5125.62 --> 5126.54] everything. -[5126.70 --> 5129.38] His resurrection changes history, my -[5129.38 --> 5131.80] history, your history, all his, all -[5131.80 --> 5132.36] history. -[5132.70 --> 5134.82] His resurrection is the victory of -[5134.82 --> 5136.90] God over sin and death and the -[5136.90 --> 5139.24] devil over all the idols and gods of -[5139.24 --> 5139.98] our own making. -[5140.36 --> 5142.92] And raised victorious, he walked on -[5142.92 --> 5145.18] this earth again for 40 days and -[5145.18 --> 5147.42] then ascended to heaven to the right -[5147.42 --> 5149.96] hand of God the Father as faithful -[5149.96 --> 5152.48] son, as ruler over all creation. -[5152.92 --> 5156.38] And King Jesus now speaks to you a -[5156.38 --> 5158.90] mission and a purpose by sending -[5158.90 --> 5161.34] with the Father the Holy Spirit to -[5161.34 --> 5163.58] transform you, to justify and to -[5163.58 --> 5165.64] regenerate and to sanctify. -[5166.10 --> 5169.40] You live today, now, to the glory of -[5169.40 --> 5172.46] God and enjoy him forever. -[5172.46 --> 5176.60] You live to be used by him to help -[5176.60 --> 5178.36] others to come to the same. -[5179.50 --> 5180.76] You and I live. -[5180.88 --> 5183.50] We have our meaning and our purpose -[5183.50 --> 5186.50] now in revealing the kingdom come and -[5186.50 --> 5187.46] the kingdom coming. -[5188.52 --> 5190.02] And because, make no mistake about it, -[5190.06 --> 5191.60] right, this gospel message continues. -[5191.92 --> 5193.22] He is coming back. -[5193.82 --> 5194.74] He will return. -[5195.10 --> 5196.98] And what so many people missed that -[5196.98 --> 5199.38] first time, no one will miss the -[5199.38 --> 5199.98] second time. -[5199.98 --> 5202.26] What people can spend their entire -[5202.26 --> 5205.22] lives denying or ignoring will not -[5205.22 --> 5206.94] be denied nor able to be ignored. -[5209.12 --> 5214.52] And so, morning, we're left with a -[5214.52 --> 5214.86] choice. -[5216.54 --> 5217.62] We're left with a couple questions. -[5219.32 --> 5222.24] If you believe in the gospel of the -[5222.24 --> 5223.64] modern world, of expressive -[5223.64 --> 5226.02] individualism, if you believe that you -[5226.02 --> 5228.60] get to decide for yourself, about -[5228.60 --> 5230.84] yourself, let me ask you, and really, I -[5230.84 --> 5232.04] want to do this with all pastoral -[5232.04 --> 5233.40] sensitivity that I can muster. -[5234.98 --> 5235.94] How's that going? -[5237.68 --> 5238.98] Right, I'm not trying to be flippant or -[5238.98 --> 5239.66] dismissive. -[5240.26 --> 5242.88] I just know that for me, every time I -[5242.88 --> 5245.48] have tried to define myself by my own -[5245.48 --> 5247.74] feelings or my own experiences, two -[5247.74 --> 5248.46] things happen. -[5249.26 --> 5251.54] Right, one, I live exhausted. -[5251.54 --> 5253.80] Always exhausted. -[5254.86 --> 5255.88] It's hard work. -[5255.94 --> 5257.90] It is impossible work to do it all -[5257.90 --> 5258.26] myself. -[5258.52 --> 5260.10] Now, you all are probably better than I -[5260.10 --> 5260.22] am. -[5260.24 --> 5261.26] There's no doubt about that. -[5263.30 --> 5266.88] But if you live exhausted, ask -[5266.88 --> 5269.80] yourself, am I maybe giving something of -[5269.80 --> 5271.02] my heart to this other gospel? -[5272.62 --> 5273.98] Or have I given all of my heart? -[5277.92 --> 5279.60] Second thing, when I try to live in -[5279.60 --> 5283.98] this way, there's just no consistency -[5283.98 --> 5285.42] for me. -[5286.54 --> 5288.22] Right, my feelings change. -[5288.98 --> 5290.24] Mike did a great job of this. -[5290.32 --> 5291.34] Like the weather in March. -[5292.48 --> 5294.74] Right, snow one day, shorts and t-shirts -[5294.74 --> 5296.72] the next day, and then rain for about -[5296.72 --> 5297.26] 50 of them. -[5298.98 --> 5301.28] Right, if I have to base who I am on -[5301.28 --> 5304.38] what I feel, who I am would never be -[5304.38 --> 5304.78] solid. -[5305.44 --> 5306.54] It would never last. -[5306.90 --> 5307.94] But here's what I want for you. -[5307.94 --> 5309.70] Here's what the scriptures want for you. -[5309.76 --> 5311.34] Here's what Jesus wants for you. -[5311.40 --> 5313.08] He wants you to be solid. -[5314.86 --> 5317.28] Right, if God is who he says he is, -[5317.44 --> 5318.96] and of course I believe that he is, -[5319.38 --> 5322.80] right, it only makes sense that we would -[5322.80 --> 5325.86] define ourselves by him, in him, and for -[5325.86 --> 5326.12] him. -[5327.18 --> 5330.08] And since God is who he says he is, -[5330.44 --> 5333.96] that means that you can be also who he -[5333.96 --> 5335.64] says you are. -[5337.98 --> 5339.02] You are loved. -[5340.30 --> 5343.04] Not based on what you do, but based on -[5343.04 --> 5343.86] what he has done. -[5345.18 --> 5348.50] You are a child adopted by the father, -[5348.62 --> 5351.18] son and daughter, not based on your -[5351.18 --> 5354.52] blood, but on his, said on the cross. -[5354.52 --> 5361.10] You belong to him and to us who believe. -[5361.38 --> 5363.36] You have a home here. -[5364.70 --> 5367.14] You are whole in him. -[5367.58 --> 5370.18] You are truly human, truly alive, maybe -[5370.18 --> 5371.56] for the very first time. -[5372.26 --> 5375.18] And that won't ever change. -[5375.28 --> 5377.50] That can't be taken from you. -[5377.66 --> 5380.86] That cannot change because God doesn't -[5380.86 --> 5381.66] change. -[5381.66 --> 5384.14] Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and -[5384.14 --> 5384.48] tomorrow. -[5384.60 --> 5386.08] And that's more than just a cute little -[5386.08 --> 5387.02] refrain from scripture. -[5387.32 --> 5388.42] That is a promise. -[5389.92 --> 5392.12] That means that regardless of the gods -[5392.12 --> 5395.06] that I have made in my past, I can -[5395.06 --> 5395.90] change today. -[5396.82 --> 5399.78] Right, his unchangingness sets me free to -[5399.78 --> 5401.20] have everything about me changed. -[5402.42 --> 5404.80] That's the message of true peace. -[5405.28 --> 5407.70] That's the message of true power from -[5407.70 --> 5408.28] the Holy Spirit. -[5408.36 --> 5410.14] And that is the message of true -[5410.14 --> 5414.28] prosperity, life lived here and now and -[5414.28 --> 5417.28] forever with God. -[5418.36 --> 5421.32] That is the gospel I want to proclaim. -[5422.08 --> 5424.78] That is the gospel that can define you -[5424.78 --> 5425.94] forever. -[5426.62 --> 5427.08] Amen? -[5428.54 --> 5428.84] Pray. -[5430.84 --> 5434.42] Lord our God, may we submit -[5434.42 --> 5439.04] ourselves to your definition of who we are. -[5439.04 --> 5443.90] May we submit ourselves to worship you and -[5443.90 --> 5445.62] enjoy you forever. -[5445.86 --> 5450.68] May we submit ourselves to your power and -[5450.68 --> 5452.96] presence by your beauty. -[5453.58 --> 5457.50] May we be transformed by the renewing of your -[5457.50 --> 5461.26] minds in the gospel of Jesus Christ. -[5461.26 --> 5469.42] Lord God, you are worthy. -[5471.48 --> 5474.30] May we worship you alone. -[5474.30 --> 5475.94] Amen. -[5483.72 --> 5485.30] Please stand with us. -[5485.30 --> 5508.64] Who else commands all the hosts of heaven? -[5508.64 --> 5514.92] Who else can make every king bow down? -[5514.92 --> 5521.28] Who else can whisper and darkness trembles? -[5521.28 --> 5525.92] Only a holy God. -[5527.86 --> 5532.80] What other beauty demands such praises? -[5532.80 --> 5538.96] What other splendor outshines the sun? -[5538.96 --> 5544.84] What other majesty rules with justice? -[5544.84 --> 5550.30] Only a holy God. -[5550.30 --> 5560.64] Come and worship the holy God. -[5560.64 --> 5569.46] Cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[5569.46 --> 5574.60] Come and worship the holy God. -[5574.60 --> 5604.58] Come and worship the holy God. -[5604.58 --> 5606.58] Holy God. -[5606.58 --> 5607.58] Holy God. -[5607.58 --> 5608.58] Holy God. -[5608.58 --> 5611.58] Come and behold him, the one and the only. -[5611.58 --> 5617.58] Come and behold him, the one and the only. -[5617.58 --> 5625.58] Cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[5625.58 --> 5629.58] Come and worship the holy God. -[5629.58 --> 5630.58] Holy God. -[5630.58 --> 5631.58] Holy God. -[5631.58 --> 5632.58] Holy God. -[5632.58 --> 5633.58] Holy God. -[5633.58 --> 5636.58] Come and behold him, the one and the only. -[5636.58 --> 5638.58] Come and worship the holy God. -[5638.58 --> 5642.58] Come and worship the holy God. -[5642.58 --> 5643.58] Christ. -[5643.58 --> 5645.58] Come and worship the holy God. -[5645.58 --> 5649.58] Come and worship the holy God. -[5649.58 --> 5671.58] Come and worship the holy God. -[5671.58 --> 5682.20] Who else can rescue me from my failings? -[5682.20 --> 5687.26] Who else would offer his only Son? -[5688.18 --> 5692.44] Who else invites me to call him Father? -[5694.08 --> 5697.48] Only a holy God -[5697.48 --> 5703.24] Only my holy God -[5703.24 --> 5709.36] Come and behold him -[5709.36 --> 5713.60] The one and the only -[5713.60 --> 5718.24] Cry and sing holy -[5718.24 --> 5722.70] Forever a holy God -[5722.70 --> 5727.28] Come and worship the holy God -[5727.28 --> 5732.16] Come and behold him -[5732.16 --> 5736.48] The one and the only -[5736.48 --> 5741.00] Cry and sing holy -[5741.00 --> 5745.36] Forever a holy God -[5745.36 --> 5749.32] Come and worship the holy God -[5749.32 --> 5754.20] Come and worship the holy God -[5754.20 --> 5755.08] Come and worship the holy God -[5755.08 --> 5766.64] The beauty of our God -[5766.64 --> 5772.06] The beauty of his gospel is that the one and the only goes with you -[5772.06 --> 5774.48] Goes in you -[5774.48 --> 5779.76] And he goes with you to find his peace -[5779.76 --> 5783.68] To know his power and to live his prosperity -[5783.68 --> 5788.88] So receive the blessing of God himself -[5788.88 --> 5792.12] God goes before you -[5792.12 --> 5793.76] To lead you -[5793.76 --> 5795.46] God goes behind you -[5795.46 --> 5796.40] To guard you -[5796.40 --> 5798.18] God goes beneath you -[5798.18 --> 5799.04] To support you -[5799.04 --> 5800.82] God goes beside you -[5800.82 --> 5801.86] To befriend you -[5801.86 --> 5802.60] Do not -[5802.60 --> 5803.80] Be afraid -[5803.80 --> 5806.06] Let the blessing of God come upon you today -[5806.06 --> 5807.90] Do not be afraid -[5807.90 --> 5807.92] Do not be afraid -[5807.92 --> 5808.60] But go -[5808.60 --> 5810.76] In peace -[5810.76 --> 5812.14] Power -[5812.14 --> 5813.58] And prosperity -[5813.58 --> 5814.82] To love -[5814.82 --> 5815.94] And serve -[5815.94 --> 5816.82] The Lord -[5816.82 --> 5818.66] Amen -[5818.66 --> 5829.98] Amen -[5829.98 --> 5846.56] In Christ alone -[5846.56 --> 5868.52] My hope is found. He is my light, my strength, my song. This cornerstone, this solid ground, firm through the fiercest drought and storm. -[5868.52 --> 5892.96] What heights of love, what depths of peace, when fears are stilled, when strivings cease. My comforter, my all in all, here in the love of Christ I stand. -[5898.52 --> 5914.94] In Christ alone, who took on flesh, fullness of God in helpless faith. -[5914.94 --> 5926.66] This gift of love and righteousness, scorned by the ones He came to save. -[5926.66 --> 5937.66] Till on that cross, as Jesus died, the wrath of God was satisfied. -[5938.72 --> 5944.46] For every sin on Him was laid. -[5944.88 --> 5949.74] Here in the death of Christ I live. -[5956.66 --> 5967.90] There in the ground His body lay, -[5967.90 --> 5973.90] Light of the world by darkness slain. -[5973.90 --> 5979.90] Then bursting forth in glorious day, -[5980.86 --> 5985.48] Up from the grave He rose again. -[5986.14 --> 5990.68] And as He stands in victory, -[5991.94 --> 5997.14] Sin's curse has lost its grip on me. -[5997.14 --> 6003.36] For I am His, and He is mine. -[6003.36 --> 6009.66] Bought with the precious blood of Christ. -[6009.66 --> 6026.32] No built in life, no fear in death, -[6026.32 --> 6031.84] This is the power of Christ in me. -[6031.84 --> 6038.16] From life's first try to final breath, -[6038.16 --> 6042.64] Jesus commands my destiny. -[6042.64 --> 6049.36] No power of hell, no scheme of man, -[6049.36 --> 6055.24] Can ever pluck me from His hand. -[6055.24 --> 6061.38] Till He returns or calls me home, -[6061.92 --> 6066.74] Here in the power of Christ I'll stand. -[6066.74 --> 6072.90] No power of hell, no scheme of man, -[6072.90 --> 6079.08] Can ever pluck me from His hand. -[6079.08 --> 6085.74] Till He returns or calls me home, -[6085.74 --> 6092.36] Here in the power of Christ I'll stand. -[6096.74 --> 6099.52] Let's see you in the hour... -[6099.52 --> 6103.90] . -[6103.90 --> 6105.90] All right? -[6105.90 --> 6109.40] ciud Sol Myers song. -[6109.40 --> 6109.94] All right. -[6109.94 --> 6139.92] Thank you. -[6139.94 --> 6169.92] Thank you. -[6169.94 --> 6199.92] Thank you. -[6199.94 --> 6201.94] Thank you. -[6229.94 --> 6231.94] Thank you. -[6259.94 --> 6261.94] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - April 30, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - April 30, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 8955e746696c202eb63fda001eda54f9f72ae2b5..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - April 30, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,41 +0,0 @@ -• Spring and new beginnings -• Gratitude for sunshine after a dark spring -• Prayer for those dealing with loneliness, health issues, and life challenges -• Caregivers for aging parents -• Those mourning the loss of a loved one -• Mental illness support and guidance for friends/family members -• Physical health issues (broken bones, hip replacements) -• Cancer patients (Sai Visser, John Koenig) -• Support for young people transitioning to adulthood -• Anxiety about decisions and independence -• Wisdom and patience for parents and youth -• The speaker prays and thanks God for saving him from the fish -• Jonah chapter 2 is a poem/thanksgiving psalm that reflects on Jonah's experiences and thoughts -• The context of Jonah chapter 1 (Jonah's hypocrisy and refusal to obey God) is crucial in understanding the meaning of the poem -• The sailors on the boat tried to save themselves from the storm, but ultimately threw Jonah overboard when they realized it was their only hope -• God sent a fish to swallow Jonah as a means of saving him -• Jonah's disobedience and denial to prophesy despite knowing God's will -• Jonah's knowledge that God is gracious, compassionate, slow to anger, and relents from sin -• The structure and genre of the poem written by Jonah in Jonah 2 -• Jonah's perception of the storm as a means for God to save him, demonstrating God's sovereignty -• God's sovereignty in all things is a central theme -• Jonah's story illustrates God's providence and power to use even suffering for good -• Contrast between Jonah's actions and his theology, showing him as a man of contradiction -• Similarities between Jonah's story and that of Noah, highlighting God's mercy and justice -• Jonah's failure to repent of his sin despite acknowledging its role in the storm's occurrence -• The human tendency to continue sinning despite knowing what God wants -• Discomfort as a reason for not obeying God's call -• Salvation being secured through God's faithfulness and promises -• The importance of new life in Christ, using Jonah's story as an example -• Jesus as the ultimate sacrifice and model of obedience to God -• The connection between Jonah's story and the story of Jesus -• God's plan for Jesus' resurrection was established before his crucifixion -• Salvation is a gift of God's mercy and justice -• Christians have an identity in Christ, as freed sinners and redeemed children of God -• As followers of Christ, we are sent to preach the good news to others -• God is sovereign over all things, including salvation and our actions -• Salvation belongs to God, not us -• We share the gospel because it's who we are, not to earn salvation or avoid punishment -• Expressions of gratitude and praise to God -• References to the Bible (e.g. "Salvation belongs to our God", "The King of kings and the Lord of lords") -• Invocation of blessings from God ("Go with God's blessing", "The Lord bless you and keep you") \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - April 30, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - April 30, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ffa7b8c626a38ac19c83bebf833eb484868b3c96..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - April 30, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,566 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 599.98] Thank you. -[600.00 --> 629.98] Thank you. -[630.00 --> 659.98] Thank you. -[660.00 --> 689.98] Thank you. -[690.82 --> 719.98] First, a few health concerns that have just come up. -[719.98 --> 749.98] Thank you. -[749.98 --> 779.98] Thank you. -[779.98 --> 809.96] It's really quiet. -[809.96 --> 816.18] that's a bit of a challenge so I'm going to be speaking to that in my prayer. Let's go to the -[816.18 --> 821.94] Lord in prayer. Heavenly Father we come before you today on this beautiful weekend. After a dark and -[821.94 --> 826.96] wet spring we're grateful for the beautiful warm sunshine we are getting. We're reminded by your -[826.96 --> 832.48] faithfulness in the growing of the grass, the buds on the trees, and the flowers that feel safe to -[832.48 --> 837.96] come out and share their beauty. Lord we are thankful for when spring gives us the thoughts -[837.96 --> 843.38] and feelings of new beginnings or a fresh start. We are thankful for the energy that spring gives us -[843.38 --> 847.80] as we tackle projects around the house and the enjoyment of getting outside and enjoying nature. -[848.84 --> 853.74] For many of us spring is a great time of the year and we look forward to its newness but for many -[853.74 --> 859.18] this season is just like any other and brings it with it loneliness, health issues, and life challenges. -[860.26 --> 864.78] We think of those Lord who are caring for aging parents and working through the challenges that -[864.78 --> 870.08] go along with that. Give wisdom and patience to those who are involved with this right now. -[870.82 --> 875.22] For those who mourn the loss of a loved one this time of the year doesn't give them a break from that. -[875.64 --> 882.18] The hole that is left by the loss of a loved one is forever part of their lives. As difficult as this -[882.18 --> 886.76] may be we ask Lord that you help those in this situation to find their new normal. -[886.76 --> 895.36] Spring doesn't give those a break who are suffering from mental illness or those in our life that are suffering from mental illness. -[896.32 --> 901.40] Help us as friends or family members of those suffering to walk beside and support our loved ones. -[902.28 --> 908.80] It is very difficult to know what to do at times but give us the courage to be ready and willing to be leaned on when necessary. -[910.54 --> 913.54] Lord we think of those who are going through some physical health issues. -[913.54 --> 918.90] I mentioned many already this morning. We think of Fred Kuntz's mom who broke her hip recently. -[919.76 --> 926.22] A lot of these broken bones and ailments like this can be a long road to recovery and a hard on the -[926.22 --> 930.00] psychological mental side of things for recovery to happen. -[931.16 --> 936.46] Lord we continue to pray for Sai Visser as he goes through chemotherapy for the cancer he is fighting. -[937.16 --> 940.54] Lord we pray for healing and strength for Sai and Greta at this time. -[940.54 --> 946.76] As well as John Koenig a former member of this church we pray for him too and his cancer fight. -[950.50 --> 955.06] Lord we want to pray for our young people as many are coming home from university or college. -[956.00 --> 963.44] Many are graduating from university or college and still many are finishing high school and are ready to embark on post high school journey. -[963.44 --> 965.72] We pray for these young people. -[966.26 --> 970.28] We know we pray for these young people and their parents. -[970.98 --> 975.30] There's a lot of anxiety about all the decisions that need to be made as adulthood approaches. -[975.82 --> 981.46] We pray for parents that are still relied upon for wisdom and patience as adulthood approaches. -[981.60 --> 983.62] Whether it be to go to school or not. -[983.98 --> 988.00] What program to take or what to do when I graduate or who to choose as a partner. -[988.00 --> 990.24] These are big decisions. -[990.86 --> 994.04] Lord we ask for your wisdom for parents and the youth. -[994.70 --> 999.86] We are thankful that you are in control and we can trust that as your children we are in good hands. -[1000.18 --> 1000.86] Your hands. -[1002.16 --> 1003.94] Thank you Lord for this church Emmanuel. -[1005.44 --> 1008.50] We are thankful for our hard working staff and all the work they do. -[1008.92 --> 1013.64] We also thank you Lord for all the many volunteers that help this church function in the matter it does. -[1013.64 --> 1020.66] From council members to ushers to those working with all ages of youth, worship teams and the visual arts. -[1021.08 --> 1023.92] We are grateful for the many talents that are here at this church. -[1025.36 --> 1030.28] As I wrap this prayer up Lord I was reminded recently of the Psalm 23. -[1030.28 --> 1035.36] That we often learn as a child and put into our memory that offers comfort for all. -[1036.50 --> 1037.60] The Lord is my shepherd. -[1037.96 --> 1038.80] I lack nothing. -[1039.72 --> 1041.70] He makes me lie down in green pastures. -[1041.70 --> 1044.22] He leads me beside quiet waters. -[1044.34 --> 1045.64] He refreshes my soul. -[1045.94 --> 1048.98] He guides me along the right paths for his name's sake. -[1049.94 --> 1052.76] Even though I walk through the darkest valley I fear no evil. -[1053.76 --> 1054.78] For you are with me. -[1054.94 --> 1056.98] Your rod and your staff they comfort me. -[1057.84 --> 1060.68] You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. -[1061.72 --> 1063.02] You anoint my head with oil. -[1063.18 --> 1063.70] My cup overflows. -[1065.54 --> 1068.82] Surely goodness and mercy and love will follow me all the days of my life. -[1068.82 --> 1071.26] And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. -[1073.48 --> 1077.18] Lord as your children replay that we will feel your presence this week. -[1077.86 --> 1083.32] Give us the courage and wisdom and time to show others in our daily lives that you are the light in our life. -[1084.42 --> 1087.40] Please be with Josh this morning as he brings the word to us. -[1088.00 --> 1090.00] And give him strength and courage to do so. -[1090.20 --> 1091.88] We ask all this in your name. -[1092.18 --> 1092.40] Amen. -[1092.40 --> 1092.50] Amen. -[1092.50 --> 1092.54] Amen. -[1092.54 --> 1092.56] Amen. -[1092.56 --> 1092.58] Amen. -[1098.82 --> 1099.82] Amen. -[1124.86 --> 1125.56] We're on? -[1125.88 --> 1126.16] Okay. -[1126.60 --> 1126.90] Cool. -[1126.90 --> 1129.56] I don't know what I would do if this mic stopped working. -[1129.96 --> 1131.22] I'm not as skilled as Chris is. -[1134.26 --> 1134.70] Okay. -[1136.62 --> 1137.68] Good morning, everyone. -[1138.38 --> 1140.52] Today we are looking at Jonah chapter 2. -[1141.10 --> 1146.16] If you have your Bibles, whether physical or on your phone, follow along. -[1146.94 --> 1148.70] It will also be on the screen if you don't have one. -[1151.10 --> 1152.02] Jonah chapter 2. -[1152.02 --> 1157.14] From inside the fish, Jonah prayed to the Lord his God. -[1158.08 --> 1158.66] He said, -[1158.66 --> 1162.14] In my distress, I called to the Lord, and he answered me. -[1162.84 --> 1167.76] From deep in the realm of the dead, I called for help, and you listened to my cry. -[1168.62 --> 1174.08] You hurled me into the depths, into the very heart of the seas, and the currents swirled about me. -[1174.44 --> 1177.10] All your waves and breakers swept over me. -[1177.66 --> 1183.20] I said, I have been banished from your sight, yet I will look again towards your holy temple. -[1183.20 --> 1186.06] The engulfing waters threatened me. -[1186.38 --> 1187.48] The deep surrounded me. -[1187.74 --> 1189.40] Seaweed was wrapped around my head. -[1190.18 --> 1192.24] To the roots of the mountains, I sank down. -[1192.66 --> 1195.16] The earth beneath barred me in forever. -[1196.30 --> 1199.42] But you, Lord my God, brought my life up from the pit. -[1200.08 --> 1206.58] When my life was ebbing away, I remembered you, Lord, and my prayer rose to you, to your holy temple. -[1206.58 --> 1210.66] Those who cling to worthless idols turn away from God's love for them. -[1211.22 --> 1215.08] But I, with shouts of grateful praise, will sacrifice to you. -[1216.10 --> 1220.58] What I have vowed, I will make good, and I will say, salvation comes from the Lord. -[1221.58 --> 1225.00] And the Lord commanded the fish, and had vomited Jonah onto dry land. -[1227.16 --> 1228.36] This is the word of the Lord. -[1228.36 --> 1229.36] Okay. -[1234.88 --> 1241.98] So, if you've been following along on your phones or in your physical Bible, then you probably noticed that chapter 2 looks different than the rest of the book. -[1243.18 --> 1245.80] Or at least it sounds different when you hear it. -[1246.66 --> 1250.40] That's because, as Chris mentioned on Sunday, it's a poem, last Sunday. -[1251.28 --> 1253.22] Specifically, it's a Thanksgiving psalm. -[1253.78 --> 1257.74] But before we get into the poem and dissect it, we have to understand the setting. -[1258.36 --> 1261.20] When you read the poem as it is, it sounds great. -[1261.66 --> 1269.18] But after you understand it in its context, your perspective on what Jonah is saying about himself and about God is quite interesting. -[1270.04 --> 1271.44] The poem is not just a poem. -[1271.94 --> 1275.54] It's an insight into what Jonah is thinking and to what he's like as a person. -[1276.68 --> 1282.92] The poem serves to tell you why Jonah has behaved the way he has and why he will behave the way he does the rest of the book. -[1284.72 --> 1286.86] Jonah, as we learn in chapter 1, is a hypocrite. -[1286.86 --> 1294.10] And Jonah chapter 2 relies on the context of Jonah 1, so we're going to have to quickly review what we learned last Sunday. -[1295.10 --> 1295.80] This is it. -[1296.66 --> 1302.00] Jonah receives a message from God to go to the Ninevites and to speak against their evil. -[1302.00 --> 1314.16] He charters a boat to the city of Tarshish, which at the time was believed to be southern Spain at the gates of Gibraltar, in the opposite direction of Nineveh. -[1315.42 --> 1317.80] God then throws a storm at Jonah's boat. -[1319.10 --> 1325.80] The sailors on the boat pray to their gods for help because they're frightened at the power of the storm, but their attempts failed. -[1325.80 --> 1331.78] They find Jonah sleeping on the boat, and they get angry at him, and they bring him out to pray to his god as well. -[1332.76 --> 1337.54] The men cast lots to see whose sin is a result and caused the storm. -[1338.08 --> 1340.48] The lot falls on Jonah, and Jonah says, -[1340.62 --> 1345.70] I am a Hebrew, and I fear the Lord, the God of heaven and earth, who made the sea and the land. -[1346.22 --> 1347.82] The men are outraged at this. -[1348.42 --> 1351.22] Jonah tells them to throw him overboard, and the storm will stop. -[1351.22 --> 1357.10] But the men don't throw him overboard because they don't want to kill a prophet of God initially, so they try to row back. -[1358.20 --> 1360.26] Then, storm gets worse. -[1360.76 --> 1364.00] They pray to the Lord that he doesn't punish them for killing his prophet. -[1364.44 --> 1369.46] They throw him overboard, and then they offer sacrifices and vows because the storm ceases. -[1370.14 --> 1372.24] And the Lord appointed a fish to swallow Jonah. -[1373.28 --> 1374.12] That's the story. -[1374.50 --> 1375.12] We remember that. -[1375.78 --> 1378.94] Now, there are three things to notice in this series of events. -[1378.94 --> 1381.20] When you compare it to what he says in Jonah 2. -[1382.66 --> 1385.72] One, the first thing is that Jonah is a prophet of the Lord. -[1386.28 --> 1391.10] But, when he's told to prophesy, he goes in the opposite direction. -[1391.60 --> 1394.54] To specifically get away from the presence of the Lord. -[1395.22 --> 1397.32] Jonah willfully disobeys God's command. -[1398.36 --> 1403.68] When Jonah identifies himself, to the sailors, as one who obeys, he says, -[1403.68 --> 1409.38] I am a Hebrew who fears the Lord, God of heaven and earth, who made the sea and the land. -[1409.92 --> 1412.48] But, Jonah knows he's disobeying. -[1412.94 --> 1414.52] He knows that what he's doing is wrong. -[1414.66 --> 1419.56] And by his own admission, him saying that the Lord is the Lord of heaven and earth, -[1419.98 --> 1421.48] he knows he can't get away from him. -[1422.58 --> 1426.80] And third, when they ask him what to do, he says, throw me into the sea. -[1426.80 --> 1429.24] He tells them to kill him. -[1431.50 --> 1433.66] Without any attempt at repentance. -[1434.52 --> 1435.86] Jonah is a prophet of God. -[1436.26 --> 1437.74] He knows that God would forgive. -[1438.52 --> 1440.24] In chapter 4, Jonah says this about God. -[1440.92 --> 1443.80] I knew you were gracious and compassionate, God. -[1444.12 --> 1446.66] Slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. -[1447.12 --> 1449.04] A God who relents from sin and calamity. -[1450.16 --> 1451.90] Jonah knows that his God would forgive him. -[1452.24 --> 1454.46] But, he would rather die. -[1456.80 --> 1461.24] This seems like a very different Jonah than the one who wrote the poem. -[1461.90 --> 1467.30] The one who wrote the poem sounds like he understands and appreciates God's deliverance and salvation. -[1467.96 --> 1471.34] The Jonah who wrote the poem sounds obedient, pious, and thankful. -[1473.84 --> 1479.46] Jonah chapter 2 is telling us that Jonah needs the message he is carrying as much as the Ninevites. -[1480.42 --> 1484.18] That he, in fact, is no better than the sinners or the pagans. -[1484.18 --> 1488.26] That he hates so much, he would rather die than tell them the message from God. -[1489.00 --> 1491.92] And that message is that God is gracious and compassionate. -[1492.52 --> 1494.78] Slow to anger and abounding in love. -[1495.46 --> 1497.48] A God who relents from sin and calamity. -[1498.24 --> 1499.70] Salvation belongs to the Lord. -[1499.70 --> 1505.94] To see this more clearly, we must go back to the text and piece together some ideas. -[1506.76 --> 1510.14] We have the setting, and now we need to dive into the structure of the poem itself. -[1510.88 --> 1514.68] As I said before, the poem Jonah writes here is a Thanksgiving psalm. -[1515.14 --> 1517.40] The Thanksgiving psalm has six aspects to them. -[1517.40 --> 1526.20] If you want to follow along or see it in your Bible yourselves, I'm going to read the aspects out in order so you can see the verses for the structure and how it forms. -[1526.88 --> 1530.18] If there is a slide, there's no slide. -[1530.42 --> 1531.08] There was a slide. -[1531.28 --> 1531.66] That's okay. -[1532.14 --> 1533.26] Oh, there it is. -[1533.40 --> 1533.74] Awesome. -[1533.96 --> 1534.12] Okay. -[1534.30 --> 1535.20] So you can follow along. -[1535.26 --> 1535.94] I have the verses up. -[1535.96 --> 1536.58] I'm going to read them out. -[1536.84 --> 1537.04] Okay. -[1537.92 --> 1539.64] The introductory summary is first. -[1540.18 --> 1542.08] In my distress, I called to the Lord. -[1542.30 --> 1543.12] He answered me. -[1543.12 --> 1546.12] The second is a recollection of the crisis. -[1546.84 --> 1548.66] The engulfing waters threatened me. -[1548.96 --> 1549.94] The deep surrounded me. -[1550.02 --> 1551.60] The seaweed wrapped around my head. -[1552.28 --> 1553.88] Third is a cry for help. -[1554.44 --> 1559.54] When my life was ebbing away, I remembered you, Lord, and my prayer rose to you, to your holy temple. -[1561.02 --> 1563.62] The fourth aspect is a description of the deliverance. -[1563.98 --> 1566.82] But you, Lord my God, brought my life up from the pit. -[1567.42 --> 1568.94] And fifth, the vows. -[1568.94 --> 1573.24] But I, with shouts of grateful praise, will sacrifice to you, Lord. -[1573.96 --> 1575.36] What I have vowed, I will make good. -[1575.76 --> 1576.80] And sixth, praise. -[1577.68 --> 1579.48] Salvation belongs to the Lord. -[1580.64 --> 1584.42] Now, there are many examples of Thanksgiving psalms in the book of Psalms. -[1584.52 --> 1588.60] But specifically, Psalm 32 is a good and concise example of this style. -[1588.72 --> 1592.84] And I would recommend you read it so that you can see how this pattern continues in other psalms. -[1593.28 --> 1594.54] But, back to Jonah. -[1594.54 --> 1600.76] Now that we know the genre of the poem and its structure, we can see how Jonah perceives this whole situation. -[1601.24 --> 1603.00] And what we find will surprise you. -[1604.36 --> 1606.86] God sees this calamity as from God. -[1607.50 --> 1610.12] You hurled me into the depths, into the very heart of the seas. -[1610.24 --> 1611.94] The currents swirled around me. -[1612.80 --> 1614.84] Jonah knows that only God can save him. -[1615.26 --> 1616.64] Salvation belongs to the Lord. -[1616.64 --> 1620.38] Two, Jonah knows that this storm is from God. -[1620.52 --> 1626.02] And that the currents and the weeds that are dragging him to the depths, the place of the dead, are from God. -[1628.10 --> 1630.00] We don't like hearing this. -[1630.44 --> 1635.46] We don't like believing that God would use chaos, destruction, calamity, and pain. -[1636.22 --> 1640.38] In short, we like it when God is silencing the storm with a calm voice. -[1640.38 --> 1643.10] We don't like it when he's hurling the storm at us. -[1643.10 --> 1649.02] But one of the most vital characteristics of who God is is his sovereignty. -[1650.00 --> 1651.82] That his will reigns supreme. -[1652.38 --> 1659.30] Which means that if he doesn't have control of the storm or the waves or suffering or pain or death, then he is not sovereign. -[1660.54 --> 1667.38] And God not being sovereign is scarier and way, way, way worse than if he is Lord over the storm. -[1667.38 --> 1675.34] Because if he's not sovereign, that means that when time comes, we can't pray as Jonah did for God to rescue us. -[1675.74 --> 1679.76] If God is not the Lord over calamity, then when it comes, we have no hope. -[1680.40 --> 1681.60] We have no comfort. -[1682.74 --> 1691.10] However, if God is sovereign over those things, then we know that God in his perfect wisdom is somehow using it for good. -[1691.72 --> 1694.80] We might not understand, but we have hope. -[1694.80 --> 1698.86] As I said before, we don't like hearing this. -[1699.18 --> 1700.02] Not today, at least. -[1700.78 --> 1706.80] We are so comfortable in this blessed country, Canada, and so used to hearing that only God will rescue us, -[1706.86 --> 1710.94] that when we hear that God is the one who sends the storm, we reject it. -[1712.88 --> 1718.94] The Heidelberg Catechism, the document of Reformed Church, holds as a good reflection of the teachings of the Bible, -[1719.18 --> 1721.12] speaks to this issue particularly well. -[1721.12 --> 1725.38] The Lord's Day 10 speaks about God's sovereignty in this way. -[1729.10 --> 1731.50] What do you understand by the providence of God? -[1732.60 --> 1735.82] God's providence is his almighty and ever-present power, -[1736.18 --> 1740.72] whereby as with his hand he still upholds heaven and earth and all creatures, -[1741.28 --> 1745.14] and so governs them that leaf and blade, rain and drought, -[1745.14 --> 1751.20] fruitful and barren years, food and drink, health and sickness, riches and poverty, -[1751.62 --> 1756.28] indeed all things come to us not by chance, but by his fatherly hand. -[1756.28 --> 1765.76] The author of Jonah and the writer of the Heidelberg Catechism are telling us that the fact that God is sovereign over the storm -[1765.76 --> 1770.34] is not a thing that should strike terror in our hearts, but rather stir hope. -[1771.18 --> 1779.16] For this reason, God is able to use every moment and every act with an appropriate measure of justice and mercy -[1779.16 --> 1782.56] in both Jonah's lives and ours. -[1783.14 --> 1786.94] For because of this, we can declare with Jonah that salvation belongs to the Lord. -[1788.66 --> 1789.70] Remember that for later. -[1792.26 --> 1797.32] Jonah acknowledges that him being in the raging storm and drowning is because of God. -[1798.86 --> 1801.34] Jonah leaves out a very important part of the whole story, though. -[1801.34 --> 1810.50] Jonah makes no mention of his sin, of his blatant and willing disobedience to prophesy to Nineveh. -[1811.52 --> 1815.98] Jonah does say that it is the Lord who saves him, and without the Lord he would be dead, -[1816.78 --> 1822.52] but Jonah also says that it's because he, Jonah, will make the sacrifice, -[1822.96 --> 1827.76] that he, Jonah, will make the vows, that he, Jonah, prayed to God, that he, Jonah, cried out. -[1827.76 --> 1830.00] It was Jonah who remembered God. -[1830.22 --> 1832.32] The Lord heard him and saved him as a result, -[1833.00 --> 1835.36] unlike the idol worshipers who give up their salvation. -[1837.26 --> 1841.62] There's another story that has similarities to Jonah that you may be familiar with, -[1841.96 --> 1843.18] the story of Noah. -[1844.18 --> 1845.80] Noah is told by God to build an ark -[1845.80 --> 1850.34] because God was going to send a flood to wipe out man's sin from the earth by killing them all. -[1851.30 --> 1853.90] Unlike Jonah, Noah was faithfully obeying. -[1853.90 --> 1860.08] God, he builds the ark, and two of every animal are saved because salvation belongs to the Lord. -[1860.88 --> 1864.14] Noah finds himself in a similarly dismal situation as Jonah. -[1864.78 --> 1865.92] He's in a chaotic ocean. -[1866.52 --> 1869.22] Noah is in a giant boat that's saving his life, -[1869.76 --> 1871.80] and this chaos was because of sin. -[1873.52 --> 1879.58] In this story, the central phrase and the central theme of the whole story of Noah is Genesis 8-1. -[1880.14 --> 1881.86] God remembered Noah. -[1881.86 --> 1886.22] And then God relented from disaster and the floodwaters subsided. -[1887.36 --> 1890.84] The central theme was not Noah remembered God, -[1891.32 --> 1894.88] then promised to do some sacrifices, make some vows, and God rescued him. -[1895.54 --> 1895.90] No. -[1896.62 --> 1898.02] God remembered Noah. -[1898.44 --> 1899.74] God sent the flood. -[1900.20 --> 1901.20] God saved Noah. -[1901.64 --> 1903.52] The same thing is happening with Jonah. -[1904.16 --> 1905.30] God sent the storm. -[1905.76 --> 1907.20] God saved Jonah. -[1907.20 --> 1916.40] Now, if we bring everything we've learned together about the setting, the story, what leads him to cry out, -[1916.62 --> 1920.32] and what is in the psalm, we see that Jonah is a man of contradiction. -[1921.38 --> 1922.62] These are the contradictions. -[1923.16 --> 1927.54] Jonah is a prophet of God, and yet he refuses to prophesy. -[1927.54 --> 1934.12] Jonah is running from the presence of God, and yet when he tells the sailors about God, -[1934.84 --> 1937.54] Jonah says that the Lord is the God of the whole earth and made everything. -[1937.54 --> 1944.22] The third contradiction is that Jonah is so desperate to avoid prophesying to Nineveh that he wants to die, -[1944.72 --> 1950.78] and he gets them to throw him overboard, and yet he is thankful to God who delivers him from his drowning. -[1951.82 --> 1958.30] And four, Jonah admits that the storm is there because of his sin, and yet doesn't repent of his sin. -[1958.30 --> 1966.22] He just cries out because he's in distress, and because he remembered God and promised sacrifices and vows, and God saves him. -[1968.36 --> 1974.06] With all these contradictory beliefs, Jonah is a man who knows better and yet doesn't do better. -[1974.76 --> 1976.24] He's a hypocrite, a sinner. -[1977.24 --> 1979.72] This isn't the VeggieTales version of Jonah that we're used to. -[1979.72 --> 1988.90] However, when I read this story, I see me. -[1989.80 --> 1995.82] On one hand, I see my sin, my failure, my disobedience, my reluctance to obey. -[1996.60 --> 2002.24] And yet, on the other hand, I see my theology degree, I see my pattern of prayer, my study of the Word. -[2002.58 --> 2004.24] I see my job here, doing this. -[2004.72 --> 2007.74] I see that I know better, and yet I don't do better. -[2007.74 --> 2013.50] Jonah, like myself, like us, we know better. -[2014.18 --> 2020.14] We know that we've been called to obey, and we know that God has called us to do, and yet we continue to sin. -[2020.84 --> 2026.38] We are men and women of contradiction, saved by Christ, and yet we sin. -[2028.64 --> 2033.68] And when we feel the call of God to obey, to stop repeating the same sins over and over, -[2033.68 --> 2039.10] sometimes we listen, but sometimes we continue because we don't want to obey. -[2039.80 --> 2043.78] We would rather continue in sin because to obey would be uncomfortable. -[2044.86 --> 2049.56] Sometimes we feel God telling us to say something to someone, to go tell someone about Him, -[2049.88 --> 2054.82] to go say to someone that God is a redemptive God, that they can find redemption in Christ. -[2054.82 --> 2057.88] But we don't do it because it makes us feel uncomfortable. -[2059.44 --> 2064.78] A person could be saved from hell, and we let our discomfort get in the way. -[2072.26 --> 2075.78] But let's remember, salvation belongs to the Lord. -[2076.56 --> 2077.52] And this is where it matters. -[2077.52 --> 2081.70] We as Christians know that our salvation is secured. -[2082.10 --> 2084.72] It's secured because God is faithful to keep His promises. -[2085.26 --> 2088.72] And we who have been baptized with Christ have been promised new life. -[2089.86 --> 2092.04] 1 John 11, 13 says it best. -[2092.60 --> 2093.54] And this is the testimony. -[2094.26 --> 2097.92] God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. -[2098.54 --> 2100.16] Whoever has the Son has life. -[2100.50 --> 2102.74] Whoever does not have the Son does not have life. -[2102.74 --> 2109.88] I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life. -[2112.04 --> 2114.44] Our sins may be many. -[2115.38 --> 2120.26] But as Jonah and we know, God is gracious and compassionate. -[2121.10 --> 2123.94] Slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. -[2124.84 --> 2126.18] Relenting from disaster. -[2127.10 --> 2130.54] And we see that in Jesus our Savior so, so clearly. -[2130.54 --> 2134.56] And ultimately, the story of Jonah and this prayer is not about Jonah. -[2135.26 --> 2138.66] This book, like everything else in the Bible, leads to the central figure. -[2139.30 --> 2139.70] Jesus. -[2140.50 --> 2141.42] Let me show you how. -[2142.26 --> 2147.12] As I said before, the structure of the Hebrew poetry is part of understanding what it is saying. -[2147.88 --> 2150.32] And in this case, we must look at the words being used. -[2151.70 --> 2153.56] In chapter 117, it says, -[2153.68 --> 2155.20] Jonah is in the belly of the fish. -[2155.78 --> 2158.98] The word here for fish is in the masculine form. -[2158.98 --> 2162.96] Which is interesting because in Jonah chapter 2, verse 1, -[2163.52 --> 2166.20] it states again that he's in the belly of the fish. -[2166.38 --> 2168.30] But he uses the feminine version of the word. -[2169.14 --> 2169.60] It's weird. -[2169.86 --> 2171.04] It's only one verse later. -[2172.42 --> 2173.74] And the Hebrew word can be read, -[2174.08 --> 2179.16] when the word stomach in Hebrew is read next to the female version of an animal, -[2179.34 --> 2181.14] it can be rendered as womb. -[2181.14 --> 2186.66] Now, before anyone gets crazy and tells me how that would be impossible, Josh, -[2186.70 --> 2189.34] how does something get eaten and then end up in the womb of an animal, -[2189.80 --> 2191.18] I'm not saying that that's what happened. -[2191.28 --> 2192.74] Neither is the author of Jonah. -[2193.94 --> 2194.92] It's just an image. -[2194.92 --> 2201.88] But by hinting at the word that it can also mean womb in this context, -[2201.98 --> 2206.40] the author of the book is telling us that Jonah was spiritually born again. -[2207.60 --> 2208.36] Think about it. -[2208.70 --> 2212.16] Jonah goes down to the bottom of the sea to Sheol, the place of the dead. -[2212.58 --> 2213.82] He's swallowed by a fish, -[2214.02 --> 2217.72] and then three days later is brought up because he was in its womb. -[2218.54 --> 2219.50] Jonah was born again. -[2220.50 --> 2223.22] In this story, it's a story of new life. -[2223.74 --> 2226.54] Jonah goes through what we would call an image of baptism. -[2227.10 --> 2229.92] Like us, Jonah was saved by God from a calamity, -[2230.34 --> 2233.88] and despite what Jonah says in his psalm about the kinds of prayers he will send -[2233.88 --> 2236.16] or the sacrifices he will make, -[2236.64 --> 2239.74] none of that was what we as the reader know saved him. -[2241.08 --> 2242.68] Jonah chapter 117, it says, -[2242.82 --> 2245.02] Now the Lord provided a huge fish to swallow Jonah. -[2245.66 --> 2248.12] Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights. -[2248.12 --> 2252.96] This is without any mention of his prayer for help or his promises to God. -[2253.66 --> 2258.04] God sent the fish to save Jonah before he even wanted to be saved -[2258.04 --> 2261.62] so that Jonah could go and prophesy to the Ninevites -[2261.62 --> 2265.12] so that they could learn that God was gracious and compassionate, -[2265.52 --> 2268.32] so that they could know it was God who remembered Noah. -[2268.68 --> 2270.90] It was God who was faithful to his vows. -[2271.22 --> 2273.48] It was God who made the proper sacrifice. -[2273.48 --> 2277.12] And that sacrifice is Jesus. -[2277.98 --> 2280.96] Jesus, unlike Jonah, was obedient unto death. -[2281.62 --> 2283.54] Jesus lived the perfect life pleasing to God. -[2283.90 --> 2286.10] He obeyed the law and fulfilled the vows. -[2286.54 --> 2288.84] He prophesied to his enemies, us. -[2289.16 --> 2291.94] And when calamity came to Jesus, he was put on the cross, -[2292.14 --> 2294.32] the cross he was sent by his Father to endure. -[2294.32 --> 2301.30] And he cried out to the Lord, his Father. -[2302.32 --> 2305.46] And God raised him from the dead because before Jesus was even on that cross, -[2305.54 --> 2308.76] he was appointed that on the third day he would be risen from the dead. -[2309.60 --> 2317.38] In God's justice, he poured out his wrath on Jesus who wore our sin. -[2317.38 --> 2323.04] And God poured his mercy on us, his enemies who wore his righteousness, -[2323.42 --> 2326.44] so that we could come to know that God was gracious and compassionate, -[2326.96 --> 2329.52] slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, -[2329.96 --> 2331.40] relenting from disaster. -[2333.36 --> 2336.52] We who were chosen before the foundations of the earth, -[2336.92 --> 2339.36] we who were a chosen people, a royal priesthood, -[2339.84 --> 2343.50] we who have been saved before we ever wanted to be saved, -[2343.70 --> 2347.04] we who were baptized, descended into those waters with Christ, -[2347.04 --> 2348.16] and were born again. -[2348.72 --> 2351.30] We who sinned and did not deserve to be saved, -[2351.68 --> 2353.92] declare that salvation belongs to the Lord. -[2359.10 --> 2361.52] All of this forever changes us. -[2362.34 --> 2364.66] We tend to think that our identity is what we do. -[2364.98 --> 2367.38] In Jonah's case, this was being a good Hebrew -[2367.38 --> 2370.12] who made the proper sacrifice and vowed the right vows. -[2370.66 --> 2373.42] The one who, unlike the idol worshipers, worships God properly. -[2374.34 --> 2375.44] But this isn't our identity. -[2375.44 --> 2380.50] As Christians, we have an identity placed on us by God's gracious gift of life. -[2381.10 --> 2384.48] Freed from sinner and redeemed child of God is our identity. -[2385.08 --> 2388.86] Joined to err with Christ and fellow brother and sister in the church is our identity. -[2388.86 --> 2392.64] This was not because we did something, -[2393.14 --> 2394.96] but because of something he did. -[2396.84 --> 2400.16] And now we, the child of God, the brother in Christ, -[2400.78 --> 2402.44] and sister in Christ, -[2402.70 --> 2404.86] have been sent to go and preach the good news. -[2405.28 --> 2407.08] We don't do this to earn our salvation -[2407.08 --> 2409.24] or out of fear that one day when we're on the sea, -[2409.30 --> 2410.48] we might be caught in a storm, -[2411.30 --> 2412.74] but because that's what we are. -[2414.22 --> 2416.48] Jonah was sent by God to go and prophesy to Nineveh -[2416.48 --> 2418.48] so that we could be saved from destruction. -[2419.46 --> 2421.50] We have been sent by God to go do the same, -[2421.86 --> 2423.06] to go and preach good news -[2423.06 --> 2424.94] so that people could be saved from destruction -[2424.94 --> 2426.88] and have right relationship with God. -[2427.50 --> 2429.26] As Christians, we have been sent -[2429.26 --> 2431.02] and commanded, like Jonah, -[2431.14 --> 2433.76] to go and preach by the Lord of heaven and earth. -[2434.84 --> 2437.22] Matthew 28, 18 to 19 says this, -[2437.22 --> 2439.52] Then Jesus came to them and said, -[2439.76 --> 2442.06] All authority in heaven and on earth -[2442.06 --> 2443.30] has been given to me. -[2443.94 --> 2445.62] Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, -[2446.18 --> 2447.74] baptizing them in the name of the Father -[2447.74 --> 2449.66] and in the Son and in the Holy Spirit. -[2450.14 --> 2452.18] The name of the Father and the Son -[2452.18 --> 2454.14] and the Holy Spirit has been placed on us -[2454.14 --> 2455.40] at new life. -[2455.98 --> 2457.22] This is our identity. -[2458.00 --> 2459.56] And like Jonah, who was his prophet, -[2459.86 --> 2462.70] we, his disciples, have been sent to go to the nations, -[2463.12 --> 2464.16] nations like Nineveh, -[2464.16 --> 2466.82] to preach that God is gracious and compassionate, -[2467.36 --> 2468.14] slow to anger, -[2469.20 --> 2470.80] and abounding in steadfast love, -[2471.34 --> 2473.00] and relenting from disaster. -[2475.26 --> 2478.28] God is sovereign over the storm he sends to Jonah -[2478.28 --> 2479.20] to turn him around. -[2479.64 --> 2482.64] And he is sovereign in sending the fish to swallow Jonah -[2482.64 --> 2484.10] and to bring him to Nineveh. -[2484.64 --> 2486.54] God is sovereign in Christ being arrested -[2486.54 --> 2488.00] and to swallow Jonah, -[2489.00 --> 2489.36] arrested, -[2489.80 --> 2491.72] God is sovereign in the world killing his son -[2491.72 --> 2492.54] to save the world. -[2492.54 --> 2495.62] God is sovereign in saving us from his wrath, -[2495.78 --> 2497.10] and he is sovereign in sending us -[2497.10 --> 2498.14] to preach his good news. -[2499.66 --> 2502.04] We don't do all these things -[2502.04 --> 2505.08] so that we receive God's grace and compassion, -[2505.48 --> 2508.72] but because we have received God's grace and compassion. -[2510.00 --> 2513.10] Remember, salvation doesn't belong to us. -[2514.28 --> 2516.18] Salvation belongs to the Lord. -[2518.54 --> 2519.28] Let's pray. -[2519.28 --> 2519.30] Let's pray. -[2522.54 --> 2525.78] God, Lord, -[2526.10 --> 2527.56] creator of heaven and earth, -[2528.52 --> 2529.84] the sea and the dry land, -[2531.08 --> 2531.66] I pray, Lord, -[2531.74 --> 2532.96] that as we hear this message, -[2533.40 --> 2535.18] that we would go at your call, -[2536.18 --> 2539.38] that we would spread the news, -[2539.74 --> 2540.84] the gospel message, Lord, -[2540.90 --> 2542.26] that you are gracious and compassionate, -[2542.48 --> 2544.56] slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, -[2544.70 --> 2546.28] that you relent from disaster, -[2546.28 --> 2548.82] and that your son was the gift, -[2548.98 --> 2549.76] the sacrifice, -[2550.02 --> 2550.38] the vow. -[2552.04 --> 2552.72] I pray, Lord, -[2553.36 --> 2556.08] that we would do this to your glory -[2556.08 --> 2557.92] and that your spirit be with us wherever we go. -[2558.70 --> 2558.96] Amen. -[2558.96 --> 2559.06] Amen. -[2559.06 --> 2559.10] Amen. -[2567.94 --> 2568.86] Amen. -[2568.86 --> 2570.10] Amen. -[2570.10 --> 2570.90] Amen. -[2570.90 --> 2572.86] Amen. -[2572.86 --> 2573.06] Amen. -[2573.06 --> 2573.10] Amen. -[2573.10 --> 2575.04] Amen. -[2575.04 --> 2575.24] Amen. -[2575.24 --> 2575.30] Amen. -[2575.30 --> 2575.62] Amen. -[2575.62 --> 2575.92] Amen. -[2575.92 --> 2576.08] Amen. -[2576.08 --> 2594.02] Salvation belongs to our God -[2594.02 --> 2598.82] Who sits upon the throne -[2598.82 --> 2605.14] And unto the Lamb -[2605.14 --> 2610.38] Praise and glory, wisdom and thanks -[2610.38 --> 2615.60] Honor and power and strength -[2615.60 --> 2621.38] Be to our God forever and ever -[2621.38 --> 2626.72] Be to our God forever and ever -[2626.72 --> 2632.10] Be to our God forever and ever -[2632.10 --> 2633.04] Amen -[2633.04 --> 2641.90] And we the redeemed shall be strong -[2641.90 --> 2647.54] In purpose and unity -[2647.54 --> 2651.86] Declaring aloud -[2651.86 --> 2658.66] Praise and glory, wisdom and thanks -[2658.66 --> 2663.78] Honor and power and strength -[2663.78 --> 2669.16] Be to our God forever and ever -[2669.16 --> 2674.54] Be to our God forever and ever -[2674.54 --> 2679.16] Be to our God forever and ever -[2679.16 --> 2681.16] Amen -[2681.16 --> 2693.54] Be to our God forever and ever -[2693.54 --> 2696.54] Be to our God forever and ever -[2696.54 --> 2700.48] Be to our God forever and ever -[2700.48 --> 2702.48] Amen -[2702.48 --> 2712.36] Amen -[2712.36 --> 2716.24] Hallelujah -[2716.24 --> 2723.52] Amen -[2723.52 --> 2725.18] Amen -[2725.18 --> 2726.66] Amen -[2726.66 --> 2727.82] Amen -[2727.82 --> 2728.66] Amen -[2728.66 --> 2729.36] Amen -[2729.36 --> 2730.06] Amen -[2730.06 --> 2730.36] Amen -[2730.36 --> 2730.76] Amen -[2730.76 --> 2732.34] Amen -[2732.34 --> 2736.70] Go with God's blessing. -[2737.84 --> 2739.60] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[2739.96 --> 2742.94] The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you. -[2743.52 --> 2746.74] The Lord turn his face towards you and give you peace. -[2747.52 --> 2747.80] Amen. -[2747.80 --> 2759.22] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[2759.22 --> 2761.80] He is wonderful. -[2763.44 --> 2771.48] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[2771.90 --> 2774.06] He is wonderful. -[2775.66 --> 2783.74] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[2783.74 --> 2786.32] He is wonderful. -[2786.32 --> 2795.96] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[2796.32 --> 2798.52] He is wonderful. -[2800.14 --> 2808.16] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[2808.16 --> 2811.16] He is wonderful. -[2811.16 --> 2820.30] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[2820.30 --> 2822.90] He is wonderful. -[2822.90 --> 2832.54] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[2832.54 --> 2835.04] He is wonderful. -[2835.04 --> 2844.68] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[2844.68 --> 2846.68] He is wonderful. -[2846.68 --> 2848.14] Who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[2854.80 --> 2857.70] He says, -[2857.70 --> 2859.56] He's wonderful. -[2859.56 --> 2879.74] Thank you. -[2889.56 --> 2919.54] Thank you. -[2919.56 --> 2949.54] Thank you. -[2949.56 --> 2979.54] Thank you. -[2979.56 --> 3009.54] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 13, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 13, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a70b21f0484e2cb1e80099d3810a98c3fdc9920e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 13, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,121 +0,0 @@ -• Lord's Supper service is being held -• Reactivate youth conference is coming on September 9th and volunteers are needed -• Beat the Topes event will take place on September 3rd, a baseball game between the church team and the Isotopes -• Introduction to worship by Pastor Chris -• Praise and worship to the Lord -• Glory of God to be known by all nations -• The kingdom of God will come with mercy and beauty -• All creation will glorify God -• Singing and praising the Lord in every nation -• Blessings and peace from God upon all people -• Reflection on Psalm 103, highlighting God's benefits and attributes -• Expression of need for God's guidance and righteousness -• Repetition of prayer to God, stating need for help and guidance -• Reference to biblical figures such as Jacob, Moses, Mary, and Jesus Christ -• Emphasis on faithfulness and God's goodness -• Acknowledgment of sin and dependence on God -• Expression of gratitude and worship towards God's presence in life -• Welcoming new church members -• Inviting the Rauchema family to join the church -• Asking them to affirm their faith and commitment to God's mission -• Introducing Sasha Cosell, who has joined from another CRC church -• Congregation promising love, encouragement, and prayers to the new members -• Prayer for the new members and the congregation -• Prayers and worship -• Introduction to fellowship time and welcoming others -• Singing a song ("Light a Fire") together as a group -• Sermon or musical segment about redemption and restoration, using lyrics that express longing and devotion to God -• Announcement of offerings for the church budget and special offering for Union Gospel Missions -• Providing meals, shelter, outreach, and chaplaincy services for those in need -• Using Scripture (2 Corinthians 9:8) to emphasize God's ability to provide abundance and grace -• Personal anecdote about a parent teaching their child to pray during a frustrating experience at McDonald's -• Discussing how people often approach prayer with the expectation of immediate answers, but sometimes God asks us to be patient and see things through faith -• Leading a prayer for guidance and strength in times of need -• The speaker reflects on God's creation and wonders why He cares for humanity -• The speaker prays for God's guidance, protection, and blessing in their daily lives -• The speaker asks for faith, trust, and obedience to follow God's plan -• The scripture from Genesis 27 is read aloud about Isaac's blessing of Esau instead of Jacob due to Rebekah's deception -• Isaac asks Jacob to bring game for him to eat and bless him -• Jacob deceives Isaac, pretending to be Esau -• Isaac touches Jacob's hands and realizes they are hairy like Esau's -• Isaac gives Jacob a blessing, unaware of the deception -• Esau arrives, claims he is Isaac's firstborn, and demands a blessing -• Isaac is confused and gives Esau a different blessing than intended for him -• Esau becomes angry and bitter, accusing Jacob of deceitfully taking his blessing -• Isaac's story and faith as a hero in Hebrews 11 -• Isaac being a son of promise to Abraham -• Isaac's near sacrifice by his father Abraham and the provision of a ram -• Isaac's marriage to Rebecca and their children, Jacob and Esau -• The contentious relationship between Jacob and Esau, with Jacob conniving to take Esau's birthright -• Isaac being duped by Jacob and Rebecca's scheming in Genesis 27 -• God's sovereignty and use of Isaac to accomplish covenant purposes despite his limitations and mistakes -• The story of Isaac in Genesis 27 parallels the story of Abraham in Romans 4:1-3 -• Isaac uses human sinfulness for God's purposes and redemption -• Despite being deceived and skeptical, Isaac blesses Jacob and Esau out of faith, not understanding -• This act is credited to Isaac as an act of faith, demonstrating his reliance on God's covenant promises -• Faith heroes throughout Hebrews 11 hang on to God's promises in the face of death, even when unsure of His intentions -• The custom of primogeniture, where the firstborn receives the larger share and blessing -• God's ways are not bound by human customs or expectations -• God regularly inverts expectations to show his power is made perfect in human weakness -• Examples from the Bible include Jacob receiving the blessing over Esau, and Isaac being chosen over Ishmael and Cain -• The line of promise is not based on fleshly descent but on faith -• True heirs are those who have faith, not just outward descendants -• Jacob is identified as the agent of God's covenant promise -• The kind of faith that identifies Isaac and Abraham is rooted in God's choosing -• God chose Jacob, therefore through Isaac, God blessed him -• The prophet Malachi makes the same point about election and covenant choosing -• God directs history and chooses its outcome through his agents, chosen people, and image bearers -• God's selection is by grace through faith, not ordinary means of flesh, power, or privilege -• Jesus also makes this point in Luke 14 -• Relationships based on faith are more important than relationships with family members who don't share that faith -• It's hard to choose God over family due to idolizing biological families -• The relationship with God is more meaningful and valuable than relationships with sons, daughters, or other family members -• Those who share a common faith have more in common with each other than those who don't believe -• Dating someone without shared beliefs can make connections difficult, if not impossible -• The relational identity shared with God through faith is the most determining factor in our lives -• Isaac was used by God to bless Jacob and move the drama of redemption forward -• The blessing spoken over Jacob in Genesis 27 has echoes of God's promise to Abraham and an anticipation of the language God will speak to Joseph -• The opposite language is used when Esau is blessed, indicating he will be the one bowing down to others -• Esau is given a promise but with conditions, that when restless, he will throw off the yoke from his neck -• Esau's line continues despite being overshadowed by Jacob in biblical history -• God shows common grace to Esau, allowing his line to thrive and separate from Jacob's -• Isaac is a faith hero because he blesses Jacob without fully understanding what he's doing -• To be a faith hero, one must be chosen by God, which can happen through faith -• God chooses people for His purposes, changing their lives and family circumstances -• The story of Isaac and Esau anticipates the sacrifice and fulfillment of Jesus Christ -• The plans of God are perfect and He lives them out, but they often involve death -• It's hard to understand what God is doing or how He will accomplish it -• Despite the unknown, we can be used by God if we ask Him to use us -• A missionary in North Africa shares updates with the speaker, who forwards them to others despite the risks involved -• Family in Christ -• Love and care for family members during separation -• God's love and covenant promises -• The importance of family meals as a way to nourish faith and receive sustenance for the journey of life -• The liturgy to be used at the table is displayed on a screen -• A prayer is given, thanking God for creation and redemption through Jesus Christ -• The Lord's Supper or Eucharist is described as a memorial of Jesus' sacrifice until he returns -• The practice of eating bread and drinking cup in remembrance of Jesus is explained -• Invitation to those who love and trust in Jesus for salvation -• Call to come to the table regardless of faith level or past experiences -• Explanation of participation format, including gathering at the front in a circle -• Procedure for receiving communion, including passing bread and juice and saying prayers -• Introduction to communion service -• Instructions for the order of the group and prayer options -• Communion ritual: Body of Christ given for you, Blood of Christ shed for you -• Distribution and consumption of communion elements -• Discussion about spiritual connection and faith -• Worship song excerpts sung by multiple people -• Prayer and reflection on salvation and God's love -• Discussion of a personal way or path -• Reflections on sorrow and its resolution -• References to the love of God in one's soul -• Mention of trials and Satan -• Praise for the Lord and His glory -• Statement that darkness will hide from day through -• Expression of pain and sadness ("the world is broken") -• Discussion of light and its presence on earth -• Praise and worship of God -• Assurance of God's presence and guidance -• Blessing and protection from God -• Peace and love for serving the Lord -• Repeated affirmations of amen \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 13, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 13, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3f3896ac7326141406f4db3d196eaa51a6dc8177..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 13, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2222 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 127.26] Let the King of my heart be the mountain where I run. -[127.72 --> 134.08] The fountain I drink from, oh, he is my song. -[134.08 --> 157.34] I choose to worship. -[157.34 --> 160.34] I choose to bow. -[160.34 --> 167.76] Though there's pain in the offering, I lay it down. -[169.02 --> 175.56] Here in the conflict, when doubt surrounds. -[175.56 --> 181.94] Though my soul is unraveling, I choose you now. -[182.56 --> 190.62] I will praise you through the fire, through the storm and through the flood. -[190.62 --> 196.92] There is nothing I could ever seal my soul. -[197.88 --> 201.68] In the valley, you are worthy. -[202.14 --> 204.86] You are good when life is not. -[205.10 --> 211.06] You will always and forever be my soul. -[211.06 --> 213.52] I build my own. -[218.06 --> 221.36] Good morning. -[223.28 --> 225.72] Welcome into worship. -[225.96 --> 229.54] We're really excited that you all are here with us this morning. -[229.54 --> 232.20] This morning is a special service. -[232.20 --> 235.50] As you can tell, we are having Lord's Supper together. -[235.80 --> 240.90] But also, we're welcoming some new members into our church community here. -[240.96 --> 242.10] And so we celebrate that. -[242.18 --> 247.28] And so if you're here visiting with that or on part of that, we're grateful that you're with us this morning. -[247.96 --> 248.82] My name is Chris. -[249.02 --> 250.48] I'm one of the pastors here. -[250.48 --> 254.98] And it's my privilege to lead in our shared worship together. -[255.14 --> 261.38] Before we begin in earnest, there's a couple announcements that need to be brought to your attention. -[262.34 --> 269.40] And so if you are a member here or you worship with us regularly, you've heard that we are hosting Reactivate, -[269.40 --> 278.04] which is a youth conference for young people, high school age kids from off over BC, from different Christian Reformed churches. -[278.04 --> 285.28] They're going to descend on us here for a weekend, the second weekend in September. -[286.02 --> 288.54] And so we need a bunch of volunteers to make that happen. -[288.94 --> 293.06] So there is a volunteer sign-up sheet that's gone out in the e-bulletin. -[293.76 --> 297.26] And so you can go to the e-bulletin and sign up for different things there. -[297.38 --> 305.44] If you don't receive the e-bulletin and one would like to, please connect with the office at communications at licrc.ca. -[305.44 --> 306.62] And you can get that. -[306.62 --> 313.08] Or if you don't want to receive the e-bulletin but would like to sign up, again, connect with the office, same email address, -[313.20 --> 316.22] and they'll just forward you the link to be able to sign up for that. -[317.52 --> 324.12] We need some 80 to 110 different volunteer-serving opportunities filled there. -[324.32 --> 330.10] So please sign up once and sign up often, and we'll be able to pull this off together. -[330.10 --> 338.46] As well, we announced last week, coming up on Labor Day weekend, that Sunday, September 3rd, -[338.46 --> 342.32] we are going to have an event that we're calling Beat the Topes. -[343.06 --> 345.46] And so we have a baseball team called the Isotopes. -[345.90 --> 350.24] We finished our first season back in the end of June. -[350.24 --> 357.68] And we, the Isotopes, are challenging you, the rest of the church, to a game together. -[357.94 --> 361.94] And so after church on that Sunday, we're going to head over to a park and we're going to play. -[362.56 --> 365.10] And so keep your eyes open for that. -[365.50 --> 371.14] And if you did not play on the baseball team, we're going to put you on another team, -[371.14 --> 374.18] and you're going to play against the Isotopes. -[375.18 --> 380.26] And so, Daryl Wind, I'm looking at you, because he wants to beat us. -[380.58 --> 382.32] But Kim, he's not going to, right? -[383.22 --> 383.66] Yeah. -[384.22 --> 385.98] That sounded very confident. -[386.12 --> 386.34] Okay. -[387.10 --> 387.54] Great. -[388.04 --> 388.96] But look out for that. -[389.12 --> 390.64] Kevin will remind us. -[391.64 --> 395.80] The Junior Topes can come in their uniforms and cheer on the Isotopes, of course. -[396.30 --> 396.66] Right? -[396.72 --> 397.58] You're going to cheer on your dad? -[399.02 --> 399.42] Maybe. -[399.64 --> 401.00] Yeah, that's about what I expected. -[402.04 --> 402.38] All right. -[402.88 --> 404.58] I believe that's it for announcements. -[405.08 --> 407.28] And so if you are able, and where you are, would you stand, -[407.64 --> 411.18] and we will be ushered into God's presence together in worship. -[413.32 --> 415.58] Receive the greeting of our God. -[417.02 --> 421.78] Grace, mercy, and peace to you, from God our Father, -[421.78 --> 424.96] from the Lord Jesus Christ, Son, and our Savior, -[425.50 --> 427.88] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[429.20 --> 429.68] Amen. -[429.68 --> 435.10] I invite you to turn to those around you and welcome them into our worship together this morning. -[436.94 --> 437.34] Good morning. -[437.34 --> 437.96] Good morning, peace of Christ. -[438.98 --> 440.10] Good morning, peace of Christ. -[441.62 --> 442.68] Good morning, peace of Christ. -[450.50 --> 451.68] Good morning, peace of Christ. -[455.14 --> 455.70] Good morning. -[455.70 --> 469.24] Good morning, peace of Christ. -[469.24 --> 469.84] Good morning, peace of Christ. -[469.84 --> 474.66] Brothers and sisters in Christ, we come together this morning in faith to worship the God of Abraham, -[474.96 --> 477.00] the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. -[477.00 --> 483.40] People of the Most High God, you are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, -[483.68 --> 485.94] which God prepared in advance for you to do. -[486.60 --> 489.12] Praise the Lord, you people of the risen King. -[489.82 --> 495.04] Praise the Lord, you his angels, you mighty ones who do his bidding, who obey his word. -[495.54 --> 500.40] Praise the Lord, all his heavenly hosts, you his servants who will do his will. -[501.14 --> 504.92] Praise the Lord, all his works, everywhere in his dominion. -[504.92 --> 506.90] Praise the Lord, my soul. -[506.90 --> 508.90] Yep. -[536.90 --> 541.90] From every nation, all of creation, -[542.68 --> 545.64] powerful nations of the Lord. -[547.04 --> 550.24] Every tongue in heaven and heaven -[550.24 --> 552.64] shall bear your glory. -[552.86 --> 555.66] Every nation, the Lord shall come. -[555.66 --> 561.04] With your spirit, you will be exalted, O God. -[561.64 --> 564.56] And your kingdom shall come. -[564.56 --> 568.64] Bless the name of all nations of the Lord. -[572.80 --> 577.22] History and honor, glory and pride, -[577.88 --> 580.58] lead to the nations of the Lord. -[582.02 --> 586.84] From every nation, all of creation, -[587.64 --> 590.42] powerful nations of the Lord. -[590.42 --> 595.12] Every tongue in heaven and heaven -[595.12 --> 597.52] shall bear your glory. -[597.76 --> 600.54] Every nation, the knowledge of God. -[601.08 --> 605.74] With mercy and beauty, the glory of God. -[605.74 --> 609.24] And your kingdom shall come. -[609.24 --> 610.24] Christ, the glory of God. -[610.24 --> 611.24] And your kingdom shall come. -[611.24 --> 613.24] All of creation, the glory of God. -[617.24 --> 621.90] And your children, all of the earth. -[621.90 --> 626.24] Sing to the nations of the Lord. -[626.48 --> 631.12] For nothing compared to the righteous Lord. -[631.48 --> 636.08] Sing to the nations of the Lord. -[636.08 --> 652.56] Peace be upon you. -[652.56 --> 654.90] And your kingdom shall come. -[655.42 --> 656.86] blessing about sin. -[659.32 --> 661.08] Faith be upon you. -[661.08 --> 691.06] Thank you. -[691.08 --> 721.06] Thank you. -[721.08 --> 723.08] Thank you. -[751.08 --> 753.08] Thank you. -[781.08 --> 783.08] Thank you. -[811.08 --> 813.08] Thank you. -[841.08 --> 843.08] Thank you. -[871.08 --> 873.08] Thank you. -[901.08 --> 903.08] Thank you. -[903.08 --> 905.08] Thank you. -[905.08 --> 910.08] Thank you. -[910.08 --> 913.08] Thank you. -[913.08 --> 918.08] Thank you. -[918.08 --> 926.48] I'm gonna sing in the middle of the storm -[926.48 --> 932.88] Louder and louder, you're gonna hear my praise of Lord -[932.88 --> 938.28] I'll cry in the ashes, hope will arise -[938.28 --> 943.70] I'm facing here, the King is alive -[948.08 --> 958.20] Oh, praise the hallelujah -[958.20 --> 964.66] Oh, praise the hallelujah -[964.66 --> 971.04] Oh, praise the hallelujah -[971.04 --> 977.10] I'm gonna praise the hallelujah -[977.10 --> 987.24] Our confession comes from Psalm 103. -[988.14 --> 991.34] Praise the Lord, O my soul, all my inmost being. -[991.64 --> 992.76] Praise his holy name. -[993.32 --> 996.22] Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, -[996.74 --> 999.58] who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, -[1000.24 --> 1003.86] who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, -[1003.86 --> 1010.10] who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagles. -[1010.84 --> 1014.10] The Lord works righteousness and justice for all the oppressed. -[1014.84 --> 1020.02] He has made known his ways to Moses, his deeds to the people of Israel. -[1020.78 --> 1025.50] The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in love. -[1025.96 --> 1029.24] He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever. -[1029.24 --> 1034.18] He doesn't treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. -[1034.88 --> 1039.30] For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him. -[1039.76 --> 1045.20] As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. -[1045.82 --> 1051.44] As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him. -[1051.84 --> 1053.58] For he knows how we are formed. -[1054.04 --> 1055.46] He remembers that we're dust. -[1056.08 --> 1057.88] The life of mortals is like grass. -[1057.88 --> 1060.04] They flourish like the flower of the field. -[1060.36 --> 1062.40] And the wind blows over it and it's gone. -[1063.12 --> 1065.08] And its place remembers it no more. -[1065.92 --> 1070.64] But from everlasting to everlasting, the Lord's love is with those who fear him. -[1070.92 --> 1073.14] And his righteousness with his children's children. -[1073.78 --> 1077.64] And with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts. -[1078.18 --> 1080.48] The Lord has established his throne in heaven. -[1080.84 --> 1082.76] And his kingdom rules over all. -[1087.88 --> 1090.68] And the Lord has called me to obey hisоне. -[1090.68 --> 1096.48] And with those whocep temu being helped. -[1096.48 --> 1111.84] I come, I'm unguessed, coming near behind my breast. -[1111.84 --> 1118.96] Without you, I fall apart. -[1119.56 --> 1126.04] You're the one that guides my heart. -[1126.48 --> 1136.96] I need you, oh, I need you. -[1136.96 --> 1143.76] Every hour I need you. -[1144.24 --> 1155.96] My one defense, my righteousness, oh God, how I need you. -[1156.48 --> 1158.48] I'm unguessed. -[1158.48 --> 1160.48] I'm unguessed. -[1160.48 --> 1162.96] I'm unguessed. -[1162.96 --> 1164.96] I need you, oh, I need you. -[1164.96 --> 1166.96] I need you, oh, I need you. -[1166.96 --> 1168.96] I need you, oh, I need you. -[1168.96 --> 1170.96] I need you, oh, I need you. -[1170.96 --> 1172.96] I need you, oh, I need you. -[1172.96 --> 1180.96] I need you, oh, Lord, I am free. -[1180.96 --> 1182.96] I need you, oh, I need you. -[1182.96 --> 1187.32] Only heaven, thanks is my singly. -[1187.44 --> 1194.78] You are my heart, Lord, I am free. -[1194.78 --> 1202.78] Holy man, Jesus, I see me. -[1204.78 --> 1211.78] I need you, oh, I need you. -[1212.78 --> 1218.78] Every night I need you. -[1218.78 --> 1230.78] My holiness, my righteousness, for God, I need you. -[1231.78 --> 1236.78] Teach my song to Christ in you. -[1237.78 --> 1242.78] When temptation counts my prayer. -[1242.78 --> 1248.78] I cannot stand upon you. -[1249.78 --> 1253.78] Jesus, Lord, my heart and sin. -[1254.78 --> 1259.78] I cannot stand upon you. -[1261.78 --> 1265.78] Jesus, Lord, my heart and sin. -[1265.78 --> 1276.78] I need you, oh, I need you. -[1277.78 --> 1282.78] Every hour I need you. -[1282.78 --> 1285.78] My heart and sin. -[1285.78 --> 1286.78] My heart and sin. -[1286.78 --> 1288.78] My heart and sin. -[1288.78 --> 1289.78] My heart and sin. -[1289.78 --> 1294.78] For God, how I need you. -[1295.78 --> 1302.78] I need you, oh, I need you. -[1303.78 --> 1308.78] Every hour I need you. -[1308.78 --> 1309.78] My love and sin. -[1309.78 --> 1311.78] My heart and sin. -[1311.78 --> 1312.78] My blood and sin. -[1312.78 --> 1315.78] My righteousness. -[1315.78 --> 1319.78] Oh, God, how I need you. -[1320.78 --> 1324.78] My love and sin. -[1325.78 --> 1327.78] My righteousness. -[1327.78 --> 1335.86] Righteousness, O God, how I need you. -[1357.78 --> 1365.68] I'm calling on the God of Jacob. -[1367.68 --> 1372.30] Through the 90s to generations, -[1374.44 --> 1379.94] I know that you will keep your life. -[1381.62 --> 1386.06] I'm calling on the God of Moses. -[1387.78 --> 1393.48] O one who opened up the ocean, -[1395.18 --> 1401.98] I need you now to do the same thing for me. -[1408.98 --> 1412.06] O God, I know I need you. -[1412.06 --> 1416.06] O God, I know I need you now. -[1416.06 --> 1425.46] O God, O God, O God, O God, O God, -[1425.46 --> 1430.26] I'm standing on your faithfulness. -[1430.26 --> 1433.66] I know you are a faithfulness. -[1433.66 --> 1439.66] O God, O God, O God, O God, O God, -[1439.66 --> 1441.46] O God, O God, O God, O God, O God, -[1441.46 --> 1446.86] I'm calling on the God of Mary. -[1446.86 --> 1453.86] O Savior, that's the one who will be. -[1453.86 --> 1459.26] You are a faithfulness. -[1459.26 --> 1463.26] O God, O God, O God, O God, Proud. -[1463.26 --> 1465.26] A faithfulness. -[1465.26 --> 1467.26] Oh -[1495.26 --> 1500.66] No wonder of your stopped Tottenham out of the Seine -[1500.66 --> 1505.36] стве no wonder of the早ures spend -[1505.88 --> 1508.76] 16月as, a March 20, April -[1509.70 --> 1510.82] Over time. -[1515.94 --> 1520.12] I was living a day when the Life of Tottenham -[1520.12 --> 1550.10] You are the same God. -[1550.14 --> 1554.32] You are providing now. -[1554.64 --> 1557.42] You are the same God. -[1557.42 --> 1560.50] You are the same God. -[1561.06 --> 1563.40] You're good in power. -[1566.14 --> 1570.36] You are the same God. -[1570.72 --> 1573.58] You are the same God. -[1573.58 --> 1576.12] You are a human. -[1576.12 --> 1579.12] You are a leader. -[1580.12 --> 1582.54] You are a single. -[1583.60 --> 1585.78] You are a single. -[1586.64 --> 1588.84] You are a savior. -[1589.74 --> 1592.12] You are a single. -[1593.02 --> 1595.40] You are a single. -[1596.50 --> 1598.58] You are a single. -[1599.90 --> 1602.60] God, I need you. -[1602.60 --> 1606.52] I know I need you now. -[1607.16 --> 1609.90] I know I need you now. -[1610.58 --> 1611.36] Lord, I know. -[1611.96 --> 1615.54] I'm a rondoethelurgeon. -[1615.90 --> 1618.34] I'm a member of the kingdom. -[1620.10 --> 1622.52] I know I want you before. -[1624.90 --> 1628.82] I know I need you now. -[1629.68 --> 1632.38] I know I need you now. -[1632.60 --> 1649.12] My Hij -[1649.12 --> 1673.38] You are the same God. -[1673.38 --> 1676.70] You are the same God. -[1676.70 --> 1679.96] You touched the leper's men. -[1680.32 --> 1683.22] I feel your touch right now. -[1683.66 --> 1686.26] You are the same God. -[1686.80 --> 1689.80] You are the same God. -[1689.80 --> 1696.32] You are the same God. -[1696.32 --> 1698.32] You are the same God. -[1698.32 --> 1700.32] You are the same God. -[1700.32 --> 1706.84] You are the same God. -[1706.84 --> 1713.84] You are the same God. -[1713.84 --> 1722.84] Come and fill me again. -[1722.84 --> 1729.84] Come and fill me again. -[1729.84 --> 1741.30] Come and fill me again. -[1741.30 --> 1741.66] Go ahead. -[1742.66 --> 1744.28] Take a seat together. -[1744.28 --> 1746.90] Come and fill me again. -[1746.90 --> 1756.56] As we have just sung and prayed, we are relying on the Holy Spirit to fill us again and to stir our hearts. -[1756.56 --> 1766.76] And one of the ways that we celebrate God doing that in our midst is by seeing God grow his church, by seeing God grow this church. -[1766.76 --> 1775.68] And so we're really excited to welcome some new members into our faith family together this morning. -[1776.60 --> 1780.30] People who we welcome this morning have been worshiping with us for some time. -[1780.44 --> 1782.40] And so you've probably met them. -[1782.46 --> 1784.22] But if you haven't, here is your chance. -[1784.22 --> 1792.62] If you are wondering about joining and becoming sort of covenant members in our church family, we're going to do this again at the end of September. -[1793.50 --> 1794.92] And so connect with me. -[1795.20 --> 1797.62] I've already got a group who's anticipating that. -[1797.74 --> 1800.42] And so you can join in for that time as well. -[1802.42 --> 1806.02] First, we're going to invite the Rauchema family up to the front. -[1806.02 --> 1814.12] And so Justin, Amanda, Ian, Hannah, Linnea, and Amy, come on up and just take a spot here with me behind the table. -[1814.78 --> 1817.50] I won't make you stand up on the stage altogether. -[1821.12 --> 1826.96] The Rauchema family have come to us from Christ Covenant PCA Church. -[1827.08 --> 1829.94] They have been worshiping with us for a while. -[1829.94 --> 1833.84] Justin was on the baseball team this past summer. -[1834.16 --> 1837.24] And some of them go to the youth program. -[1837.36 --> 1839.20] The girls are in the GEMS program. -[1839.68 --> 1842.80] And so they've been involved and have plugged in quickly. -[1843.80 --> 1852.16] Justin and Amanda, Ian, Hannah, Linnea, and Amy, it's our hope and prayer that here your faith in God will be strengthened, -[1852.38 --> 1854.64] that your love for Jesus will be grown, -[1854.64 --> 1863.56] and that you will find opportunity to connect and serve in the Spirit as you join with us on mission in this community and to the world. -[1864.44 --> 1867.02] As we welcome you this morning into the church family, -[1867.24 --> 1872.30] we're just going to ask that you affirm the faith that you have professed and your commitment to God's mission -[1872.30 --> 1877.00] in and through Langley-Emmanuel to our city and region and to the world. -[1877.46 --> 1880.32] And so to do so, I'm going to ask you three questions. -[1880.92 --> 1884.42] And then at the end, I'll invite you to respond as a family. -[1885.40 --> 1894.52] First, do you believe in Jesus as your Savior and Lord and that in Him alone is hope and freedom from sin found? -[1895.60 --> 1902.00] Second, do you believe that the Bible is the Word of God, revealing His plan for redemption in Jesus Christ, -[1902.20 --> 1906.30] and that the preaching and teaching of Langley-Emmanuel reflect this truth? -[1906.30 --> 1913.52] And three, do you promise with the help of the Holy Spirit to do all you can to strengthen your relationship to Jesus -[1913.52 --> 1918.76] by being part of the life of this church, recognizing its oversight and authority, -[1918.92 --> 1923.72] and joining with us on mission for Jesus in this community and beyond? -[1924.48 --> 1926.30] Raukoma family, what is your answer? -[1926.30 --> 1932.70] We do with God's help. -[1933.46 --> 1936.86] Everything we do, we do with God's help. -[1937.38 --> 1938.64] We acknowledge that this morning. -[1939.12 --> 1944.52] As well, we want to welcome someone who's come to us from another CRC church. -[1944.52 --> 1949.00] And so, Sasha, if you're here, yeah, can you come up to the front, please? -[1951.92 --> 1957.28] So, Sasha Cosell comes to us from Willoughby CRC -[1957.28 --> 1960.26] and has also been worshiping with us for a little while now, -[1960.38 --> 1964.96] and we are excited to welcome you and that you are here. -[1965.66 --> 1968.50] We are grateful that all of you are with us, -[1968.62 --> 1972.42] and we're excited to see what God will do in our midst through you. -[1973.08 --> 1977.76] And our prayer is that as you join our shared ministry and mission, -[1977.96 --> 1980.56] as you join our church family in serving God, -[1981.22 --> 1986.18] that we together will reveal His kingdom come and His kingdom coming. -[1986.18 --> 1991.26] And just as they have made themselves known to us, -[1991.44 --> 1994.66] we are going to offer support and encouragement to them. -[1994.86 --> 1997.94] And so, congregation, I'm going to ask you guys a question. -[1998.24 --> 2000.08] And so, as you're able, I'm going to invite you to stand, -[2000.62 --> 2005.28] that you too might speak a word of promise and faithfulness to them. -[2006.46 --> 2009.70] And so do you, people of God here at Langley Emanuel, -[2009.70 --> 2015.04] promise all these wonderful people your love, encouragement, and prayers. -[2016.18 --> 2017.76] We do, for God's sake. -[2018.56 --> 2018.84] Amen. -[2019.18 --> 2020.06] You may have a seat. -[2020.18 --> 2021.84] You guys just stay here for one minute. -[2022.46 --> 2023.26] I'm going to pray for you. -[2024.58 --> 2028.18] If you are so moved, I encourage you just to hold out your hand -[2028.18 --> 2030.90] as we mark the Spirit moving in this place -[2030.90 --> 2033.06] and calling us to service together. -[2033.38 --> 2033.86] Let's pray. -[2033.86 --> 2039.64] Holy God, Heavenly Father, -[2040.14 --> 2044.90] just as you sent Jesus into the world to redeem the world, -[2045.00 --> 2049.20] you send us out now to the world to proclaim that truth. -[2050.20 --> 2052.74] And so we thank you for the Rauchema family. -[2053.12 --> 2056.56] We thank you for Sasha and for their joining us here. -[2056.56 --> 2060.08] We thank you for the ways that you have already included them -[2060.08 --> 2061.84] in our church family and fellowship, -[2062.00 --> 2065.76] the ways that you have already been at work in them and through them. -[2065.90 --> 2068.24] And we pray, Lord God, by your Spirit, -[2068.44 --> 2071.22] continue to grow them. -[2072.60 --> 2076.72] Grow us all in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, -[2076.80 --> 2080.94] and send us out in Holy Spirit power with boldness -[2080.94 --> 2084.82] to proclaim your kingdom come and kingdom coming. -[2086.24 --> 2090.18] Holy God, fill these ones here so much with your Spirit -[2090.18 --> 2093.84] that their passion stirs our passion, -[2094.16 --> 2097.80] that their affections for Jesus and their love for the gospel -[2097.80 --> 2101.62] stirs our affections for Jesus and our love for the gospel. -[2102.56 --> 2105.28] Hold us in covenant fellowship, we pray, -[2105.28 --> 2108.32] in the name of Jesus Christ, who is our Savior. -[2108.32 --> 2110.94] And all God's people said, Amen. -[2111.76 --> 2113.64] Amen. Thank you, guys. You may have a seat. -[2114.68 --> 2117.90] After our worship together, we have a time of fellowship, -[2118.16 --> 2121.00] and so I encourage you, if you haven't yet, -[2121.86 --> 2125.52] welcome them, introduce yourself to them, -[2125.94 --> 2130.40] but do your best not to queue up behind them for too long -[2130.40 --> 2132.24] because that gets really intimidating and awkward, -[2132.30 --> 2133.20] and we all know how that feels. -[2133.76 --> 2135.76] Let's continue in song together. -[2135.76 --> 2140.04] Stand and join us in song singing over -[2140.04 --> 2143.48] Sashla Karamahdhan with the song, Light a Fire. -[2143.48 --> 2147.76] focused on music playing over -[2147.76 --> 2149.62] Sashla Karamahdhan with the song, Light a Fire. -[2149.62 --> 2151.04] And we all know how that feels. -[2151.04 --> 2153.30] Let's sing a song, Light a Fire. -[2153.30 --> 2155.70] Let's sing a song, Light a Fire. -[2155.70 --> 2157.88] Just a song, Light a Fire, -[2157.88 --> 2159.04] and we all know how that feels. -[2159.04 --> 2161.14] Let's sing a song, Light a Fire. -[2161.14 --> 2163.08] Let's sing a song, Light a Fire. -[2163.08 --> 2167.46] Be the children of my salvation. -[2170.16 --> 2176.20] Take me back to where it all began. -[2179.26 --> 2185.46] Where I ever wanted was the present. -[2185.46 --> 2193.46] Where I longed to be there on the side. -[2196.46 --> 2202.46] And I remember that I can't wait. -[2203.50 --> 2206.46] Till nothing which we must face. -[2207.94 --> 2211.46] I like reason I'll turn to you. -[2211.46 --> 2219.46] I will be there on the arrows that burn in my heart. -[2221.30 --> 2224.46] I'll not take you back to your side. -[2225.62 --> 2228.46] My life is now to turn to you. -[2232.46 --> 2237.46] You will be a pure and good in spirit. -[2237.46 --> 2246.46] Take me back to where it all began. -[2248.46 --> 2251.46] You will be there on the side. -[2251.46 --> 2253.46] You will be there on the side. -[2253.46 --> 2255.46] You will be there on the side. -[2259.46 --> 2263.46] You will be there on the side. -[2263.46 --> 2265.46] You will be there on the side. -[2265.46 --> 2266.46] You will be there on the side. -[2266.46 --> 2270.46] You will be there on the side. -[2270.46 --> 2281.74] when -[2281.74 --> 2291.00] The end, all the embers that were in my heart -[2291.00 --> 2295.30] Lord, I'll take you back to the storm -[2295.30 --> 2300.30] My love is an altar to you -[2300.30 --> 2310.52] I'm sorry, please forgive me -[2310.52 --> 2315.70] Lord, when I got home -[2315.70 --> 2318.74] Lord, I need you -[2318.74 --> 2323.64] Now I need you -[2323.64 --> 2329.42] To the way that I saw -[2329.42 --> 2335.40] Lord, I'll take you back to the day -[2335.40 --> 2339.70] To the death of Jesus' name -[2339.70 --> 2343.88] I'm not reasonable to do -[2343.88 --> 2353.26] The end, all the embers that were in my heart -[2353.26 --> 2356.88] Lord, I'll take you back to the storm -[2356.88 --> 2361.06] My love is an altar to you -[2361.06 --> 2375.24] All the embers that were in my heart -[2375.24 --> 2386.92] All the earth will shout your praise -[2386.92 --> 2391.42] Our hearts and grimees, won't we sing -[2391.42 --> 2399.42] Great are you, Lord -[2399.42 --> 2403.60] Great are you, Lord -[2403.60 --> 2417.78] Great are you, Lord -[2417.78 --> 2421.78] God, the earth will shout your praise -[2421.78 --> 2425.78] Our hearts and grimees, won't we sing -[2425.78 --> 2429.96] Great are you, Lord -[2429.96 --> 2433.96] Great are you, Lord -[2433.96 --> 2435.96] Lord, we sing your praise -[2435.96 --> 2436.14] So glad -[2436.14 --> 2438.14] May our lungs -[2438.14 --> 2439.14] So glad -[2439.14 --> 2441.14] And we pour out our praise -[2441.14 --> 2444.64] For our praise is your name -[2444.64 --> 2446.52] May our lungs -[2446.52 --> 2447.52] So glad -[2447.52 --> 2449.52] And we pour out our praise -[2449.52 --> 2450.04] May our praise -[2450.04 --> 2450.54] So glad -[2450.54 --> 2452.54] Won't we sing your name -[2452.54 --> 2457.06] In our lungs -[2457.06 --> 2458.60] So we pour out our praise -[2458.60 --> 2460.76] Pourquoi, and praise -[2460.76 --> 2471.02] But we author -[2471.02 --> 2471.70] ihn -[2471.70 --> 2491.80] Father, I'm sorry. Please forgive me. For when I'm gone, Lord, I need you. -[2491.80 --> 2503.06] Now I need you to awake my soul. -[2521.80 --> 2547.20] A deacon here. The offerings today for the August the 13th, first is for the budget. Special -[2547.20 --> 2554.58] offering is for Union Gospel Missions. They are determined to restore the God-given dignity -[2554.58 --> 2563.30] of people by sharing and demonstrating the love of Jesus Christ, providing without discrimination -[2563.30 --> 2574.30] meals, shelter, outreach, and chaplaincy services that relieve suffering and renew hope. Offering -[2574.30 --> 2584.80] people facing poverty, homelessness, and addiction hope by coming alongside toward recovery. -[2584.80 --> 2593.80] 2 Corinthians 9, 8 reads, and God is able to make all grace abound to you so that in all -[2593.80 --> 2600.80] things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good works. -[2600.80 --> 2617.06] 3 Corinthians 9, 9 18 -[2617.06 --> 2647.04] Thank you. -[2647.06 --> 2677.04] Thank you. -[2677.06 --> 2707.04] Thank you. -[2707.06 --> 2737.04] Thank you. -[2737.06 --> 2767.04] Thank you. -[2767.04 --> 2769.04] Thank you. -[2769.04 --> 2771.04] Thank you. -[2771.04 --> 2773.04] Thank you. -[2773.04 --> 2775.04] Thank you. -[2775.04 --> 2777.04] Thank you. -[2777.04 --> 2779.04] Thank you. -[2779.04 --> 2783.04] Thank you. -[2783.04 --> 2785.04] Thank you. -[2785.04 --> 2787.04] Thank you. -[2787.04 --> 2789.04] Thank you. -[2789.04 --> 2791.04] Thank you. -[2791.04 --> 2793.04] Thank you. -[2793.04 --> 2795.04] Thank you. -[2795.14 --> 2797.04] So, -[2797.04 --> 2799.04] thank you. -[2799.04 --> 2803.04] Thank you. -[2803.04 --> 2805.04] Thank you. -[2805.04 --> 2807.04] Thank you. -[2807.04 --> 2809.04] Thank you. -[2809.04 --> 2811.04] Thank you. -[2811.04 --> 2813.04] Thank you. -[2813.04 --> 2815.04] Thank you. -[2815.04 --> 2817.04] Thank you. -[2817.04 --> 2819.04] Thank you. -[2819.04 --> 2821.04] Thank you. -[2821.04 --> 2823.04] Thank you. -[2823.04 --> 2825.04] Thank you. -[2825.04 --> 2827.04] Thank you. -[2827.04 --> 2829.04] Thank you. -[2829.04 --> 2835.04] Thank you. -[2835.04 --> 2837.04] Thank you. -[2837.04 --> 2839.04] Thank you. -[2839.04 --> 2841.04] Thank you. -[2841.04 --> 2846.10] Good morning. -[2846.78 --> 2850.72] My name is Seth, and I am one of the pastoral elders at our church here, -[2850.96 --> 2853.80] and it's my pleasure to lead you in our church family prayer. -[2854.64 --> 2860.40] Before I do that, though, on Friday night, it's tradition in my family to get pizza, -[2860.86 --> 2865.74] and we have a movie after that, but my son insists that he only gets McDonald's, -[2865.74 --> 2869.62] two cheeseburgers and a medium French fries every Friday. -[2869.94 --> 2870.70] It has to happen. -[2871.04 --> 2871.74] So we do that. -[2872.06 --> 2872.54] That's fine. -[2873.04 --> 2874.80] These are things we do because we love our children. -[2876.32 --> 2879.04] This past Friday, we're waiting in the line at McDonald's, -[2879.08 --> 2882.28] and my son, like most of us, has a tough time waiting. -[2883.04 --> 2887.68] My son, like many of us, expresses this frustration quickly. -[2888.58 --> 2893.22] Many of us are still learning to keep that in check and to speak that appropriately, -[2893.22 --> 2894.80] but we're in line, and he just says, -[2895.10 --> 2898.20] Oh, what is taking this line so long? -[2898.70 --> 2900.30] There's all of one car in front of us. -[2900.30 --> 2903.10] But I said, Well, it takes time to make their food. -[2903.30 --> 2904.54] Oh, it's taking forever. -[2905.50 --> 2910.80] And in one of my rare, brilliant parenting moments, I said, Well, how about instead of complaining, -[2911.54 --> 2917.32] why don't we pray that the people in McDonald's can cook your food well and quickly so that we can keep moving through? -[2917.32 --> 2918.32] Fine. -[2918.32 --> 2923.40] I said, Dear God, help the McDonald's people get the food done well so that I can eat my food. -[2924.20 --> 2926.26] Lo and behold, the car moves in front. -[2926.90 --> 2927.46] See, Dad? -[2927.96 --> 2929.28] I'm like, Yeah, this is great. -[2929.34 --> 2932.74] And I'm thinking, Oh, he's going to see these things through eyes of faith like God is good and gracious. -[2933.10 --> 2935.62] He goes, Prayer helps us get what we want. -[2935.62 --> 2936.62] Okay. -[2938.62 --> 2939.02] Okay. -[2939.66 --> 2942.30] Sometimes we approach prayer like that, too. -[2943.48 --> 2944.34] We are human. -[2944.58 --> 2945.16] We are fallen. -[2945.30 --> 2945.80] We are broken. -[2946.42 --> 2949.48] And it's not necessarily that we don't know how to ask God. -[2950.20 --> 2954.12] I think the bottom line is he's so glad that we come to him and we ask. -[2954.12 --> 2958.78] And if you read the e-bulletin this week, you saw that there are many needs in our church. -[2959.68 --> 2963.28] Health, heartbreak, sickness, brokenness. -[2963.72 --> 2966.72] There's a lot of hurt and pain and tears in this world. -[2966.96 --> 2967.94] And we see that. -[2969.40 --> 2975.44] And when we come to God, yeah, sometimes it is in that hope that there will be that quick answer, -[2976.10 --> 2980.40] that the line moves, that there is healing, that there is immediate grace that we see. -[2980.40 --> 2985.96] But sometimes God asks us to be patient and to see things through eyes of faith. -[2986.96 --> 2989.84] And please join me in prayer as we keep that in mind. -[2993.46 --> 2997.80] Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth. -[2998.80 --> 3000.64] You have set your glory in the heavens. -[3001.30 --> 3006.46] Through the praise of children and infants, you have established a stronghold against your enemies -[3006.46 --> 3009.08] to silence the foe and the avenger. -[3009.08 --> 3016.74] When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars which you have set in place, -[3017.56 --> 3022.74] what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them? -[3024.02 --> 3028.90] You have made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor. -[3029.68 --> 3032.24] You made them rulers over the works of your hands. -[3032.24 --> 3038.14] You put everything under their feet, all flocks and herds and the animals of the wild, -[3038.62 --> 3043.98] the birds in the sky and the fish in the sea, all that swim in the paths of the sea. -[3045.00 --> 3048.76] Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth. -[3048.76 --> 3053.76] And Lord, you hear our prayers. -[3055.04 --> 3060.94] It is amazing that you, creator of all the universe, care enough to listen to each one of our prayers. -[3061.40 --> 3062.74] And we bring them to you now. -[3063.76 --> 3064.94] We know that you listen. -[3065.60 --> 3066.72] We know that you love. -[3067.28 --> 3073.38] And we know that you work in almighty, wonderful, sovereign ways to bring about your plan. -[3073.38 --> 3080.38] Help us to see this through the challenges that all of us face day to day, -[3080.82 --> 3086.28] through the challenges that we see around us in our communities, in our country and in our world. -[3087.38 --> 3093.92] It's easy for us to get overwhelmed and to sometimes assume that you aren't there, that you aren't listening. -[3095.36 --> 3099.02] But your word tells us to hold on with eyes of faith, -[3099.02 --> 3104.32] to be like the examples we see that we hear about again today from Hebrews. -[3105.78 --> 3109.84] Help us to follow their example, to trust in your sovereign plan, -[3110.66 --> 3112.78] knowing that you have all things in your hand. -[3115.04 --> 3122.22] We pray for a blessing on our church as we begin to wrap up summer and move into a season of new ministries. -[3122.88 --> 3127.92] We pray for your blessing, for fruit, for your spirit to dwell richly in all of the ministries. -[3127.92 --> 3130.30] We pray for today. -[3130.86 --> 3134.48] We pray for a blessing on Pastor Chris and the word that he's going to share with us. -[3135.18 --> 3138.10] We also pray for a blessing on the Lord's Supper. -[3138.90 --> 3144.26] And we thank you for another tangible evidence of your goodness and your grace and your love for us. -[3145.02 --> 3147.26] Thank you for how you feed us and provide. -[3149.40 --> 3152.30] Bless us today and the remainder of this week. -[3152.88 --> 3155.24] And may we look to you with eyes of faith. -[3156.00 --> 3157.48] We pray this in Jesus' name. -[3158.00 --> 3158.30] Amen. -[3158.30 --> 3179.54] As prayed and as you can see from the screen behind me, -[3179.54 --> 3187.62] we're going to continue in our series looking at faith heroes using the list of characters from Hebrews 11, -[3187.82 --> 3193.42] but then often reading part of their story where it occurs earlier in the Old Testament. -[3193.80 --> 3200.44] This morning, we have a group of people who are going to come up and read for us from Genesis 27. -[3200.44 --> 3206.70] And so if you have a Bible, I encourage you to open that up and then keep that open to Genesis 27. -[3207.16 --> 3210.24] We're going to read verses 1 through 41. -[3210.72 --> 3215.50] And so Rauchema girls and I think Olivia, who are going to read for us, -[3215.50 --> 3218.10] why don't you come up to the front here. -[3219.88 --> 3223.58] And then this will be your microphone and station. -[3223.58 --> 3244.94] When Isaac was old and his eyes were so weak that he could no longer see, -[3245.32 --> 3248.86] he called for Esau, his older son, and said to him, -[3248.86 --> 3249.78] My son. -[3250.20 --> 3251.64] Here I am, he answered. -[3252.16 --> 3256.24] Isaac said, I am now an old man and don't know the day of my death. -[3256.64 --> 3259.22] Now then, get your equipment, your quiver and bow, -[3259.46 --> 3262.92] and go out to the open country and hunt some wild game for me. -[3263.50 --> 3266.92] Prepare me the kind of tasty food I like and bring it to me to eat -[3266.92 --> 3269.64] so that I may give you my blessing before I die. -[3269.64 --> 3273.74] Now Rebekah was listening as Isaac spoke to his son Esau. -[3274.26 --> 3281.54] When Esau left for the open country to hunt game and bring it back, -[3281.94 --> 3283.86] Rebekah said to her son Jacob, -[3284.56 --> 3287.58] Look, I overheard your father say to your brother Esau, -[3287.98 --> 3290.96] Bring me some game and prepare me some tasty food to eat -[3290.96 --> 3295.36] so that I may give you my blessing in the presence of the Lord before I die. -[3295.88 --> 3298.78] Now, my son, listen carefully and do what I tell you. -[3298.78 --> 3302.26] Go out to the flock and bring me two choice young goats -[3302.26 --> 3307.12] so that I can prepare some tasty food for your father just the way he likes it. -[3307.74 --> 3312.32] Then take it to your father to eat it so that he may give you his blessing before he dies. -[3313.10 --> 3315.08] Jacob said to Rebekah, his mother, -[3315.70 --> 3318.98] But my brother Esau is a hairy man while I have smooth skin. -[3319.42 --> 3320.86] What if my father touches me? -[3321.02 --> 3325.28] I would appear to be tricking him and would bring down a curse on myself rather than a blessing. -[3325.28 --> 3327.38] His mother said to him, -[3327.82 --> 3329.72] My son, let the curse fall on me. -[3330.06 --> 3331.08] Just do what I say. -[3331.26 --> 3332.26] Go and get them for me. -[3332.78 --> 3335.48] So he went down and got them and brought them to his mother, -[3335.74 --> 3339.32] and she prepared some tasty food just the way his father liked it. -[3339.96 --> 3343.64] Then Rebekah took the best clothes of Esau, her older son, -[3343.96 --> 3345.60] which she had in the house, -[3345.76 --> 3348.38] and put them on her younger son, Jacob. -[3348.38 --> 3353.14] She also covered his hands and the smooth part of his neck with the goat skins. -[3353.60 --> 3358.26] Then she handed to her son Jacob the tasty food and the bread she had made. -[3358.64 --> 3360.32] He went to his father and said, -[3360.72 --> 3361.28] My father. -[3361.82 --> 3363.18] Yes, my son, he answered. -[3363.40 --> 3364.08] Who is it? -[3364.60 --> 3365.92] Jacob said to his father, -[3366.30 --> 3367.98] I am Esau, your firstborn. -[3368.26 --> 3369.58] I have done as you told me. -[3369.82 --> 3373.72] Please sit up and eat some of my game so that you may give me your blessing. -[3373.72 --> 3378.02] Isaac asked his son, -[3378.58 --> 3381.22] How did you find it so quickly, my son? -[3381.50 --> 3384.30] The Lord your God gave me access, he replied. -[3384.64 --> 3385.90] Then Isaac said to Jacob, -[3386.28 --> 3388.46] Come near so I can touch you, my son, -[3388.72 --> 3392.58] so I know whether you are really my son Esau or not. -[3393.20 --> 3396.16] Jacob went close to his father Isaac, -[3396.16 --> 3397.74] who touched him and said, -[3398.24 --> 3400.48] The voice is the voice of Jacob, -[3400.90 --> 3403.68] but the hands are of Esau. -[3404.18 --> 3405.62] He did not recognize him, -[3405.88 --> 3409.32] for his hands were hairy like those of his brother Esau. -[3409.56 --> 3411.62] But he proceeded to bless him. -[3412.18 --> 3412.88] So you really, -[3413.98 --> 3415.64] so you really, -[3416.72 --> 3419.08] are you really my son Esau? -[3419.28 --> 3420.02] He asked, -[3420.14 --> 3421.02] I am, he replied. -[3421.42 --> 3422.18] Then he said, -[3422.44 --> 3425.62] My son, bring me some of your game to eat, -[3425.62 --> 3428.86] so that I may give my blessing. -[3429.28 --> 3432.00] Jacob brought it to him and he ate. -[3432.00 --> 3435.38] And he brought some wine and he drank. -[3436.22 --> 3438.60] Then his father Isaac told him, -[3439.30 --> 3441.06] Come here, my son, and kiss me. -[3441.46 --> 3443.56] So he went to him and kissed him. -[3444.04 --> 3446.54] When Isaac caught the smell of his clothes, -[3446.90 --> 3448.04] he blessed him and said, -[3448.48 --> 3452.42] The smell of my son is like the smell of a field -[3452.42 --> 3454.32] that the Lord has blessed. -[3454.32 --> 3459.72] May God give you heaven's dew and earth's richness -[3459.72 --> 3462.44] and abundance of grain and new wine. -[3463.06 --> 3466.36] My nations serve you and peoples bow down to you. -[3466.72 --> 3469.16] Be Lord over your brothers, -[3469.66 --> 3474.82] and may the sons of your mother bow down to you. -[3474.82 --> 3477.66] May those who curse you be cursed, -[3477.82 --> 3479.30] and those who bless you be blessed. -[3479.74 --> 3482.44] After Isaac has finished blessing him, -[3482.90 --> 3488.62] and Jacob had scarcely left his father in presence, -[3489.30 --> 3492.54] his brother Isaac came from hunting. -[3492.98 --> 3495.36] He too prepared some tasty food -[3495.36 --> 3497.30] and brought it to his father. -[3497.30 --> 3499.44] Then he said to him, -[3499.74 --> 3502.88] My father, please sit up and eat some of my game, -[3503.30 --> 3506.00] so that you may give me your blessing. -[3506.38 --> 3507.92] His father Isaac asked him, -[3508.12 --> 3508.82] Who are you? -[3509.18 --> 3510.62] I am your son, he answered, -[3510.84 --> 3511.96] your firstborn Esau. -[3513.86 --> 3516.48] Isaac trembled violently and said, -[3516.58 --> 3518.86] Who was it then that hunted game and brought it to me? -[3519.10 --> 3521.22] I ate it just before you came, and I blessed him, -[3521.32 --> 3522.50] and indeed he will be blessed. -[3522.88 --> 3524.58] When Esau heard his father's words, -[3524.58 --> 3526.40] he burst out with a loud and bitter cry -[3526.40 --> 3527.36] and said to his father, -[3527.78 --> 3529.10] Bless me, me too, my father. -[3529.38 --> 3530.34] But he said, -[3530.52 --> 3533.08] Your brother came deceitfully and took your blessing. -[3533.64 --> 3534.30] Esau said, -[3534.48 --> 3535.84] Isn't he rightly named Jacob? -[3536.08 --> 3538.70] This is the second time he has taken advantage of me. -[3539.00 --> 3540.00] He took my birthright, -[3540.10 --> 3541.56] and now he has taken my blessing. -[3542.00 --> 3542.66] Then he asked, -[3542.82 --> 3544.84] Haven't you reserved any blessing for me? -[3545.32 --> 3546.52] Isaac answered Esau, -[3546.78 --> 3548.36] I have made him Lord over you -[3548.36 --> 3550.70] and have made all of his relatives his servants, -[3551.34 --> 3553.82] and I have sustained him with grain and new wine. -[3553.82 --> 3555.92] So what can I possibly do for you, my son? -[3556.42 --> 3557.64] Esau said to his father, -[3557.84 --> 3559.88] Do you have only one blessing, my father? -[3560.24 --> 3561.40] Bless me too, my father. -[3561.82 --> 3563.14] Then Esau wept out loud. -[3563.56 --> 3565.04] His father Isaac answered him, -[3565.44 --> 3567.58] Your dwelling will be away from the earth's richness, -[3567.92 --> 3569.54] away from the dew of heaven above. -[3569.92 --> 3570.98] You will live by the sword, -[3571.10 --> 3572.12] and you will serve your brother. -[3572.48 --> 3573.54] But when you grow restless, -[3573.78 --> 3575.72] you will throw his yoke off from your neck. -[3576.18 --> 3578.22] Esau held a grudge against Jacob -[3578.22 --> 3580.58] because of the blessing his father had given him. -[3580.92 --> 3581.80] He said to himself, -[3581.80 --> 3583.94] If the days of mourning for my father are near, -[3584.26 --> 3585.66] then I'll kill my brother Jacob. -[3585.94 --> 3587.20] This is the word of the Lord. -[3587.20 --> 3617.18] Thank you. -[3617.20 --> 3623.06] Isaac is long and there's a ton in it that we could reflect on. -[3623.90 --> 3628.46] And so we're going to kind of move really quickly for the sake of our time together -[3628.46 --> 3634.82] and have one particular focus that comes from Genesis 27 where we read. -[3635.68 --> 3639.92] But for you who may not be as familiar with the story, -[3640.50 --> 3645.90] Isaac is born the second of two sons to Abraham. -[3645.90 --> 3653.76] His older brother, Ishmael, is a fascinating story in its own right and worthy of study. -[3654.66 --> 3658.70] But Isaac is the son of promise, right? -[3658.74 --> 3664.46] He's the one who was promised to Abraham through whom Abraham would become a great nation. -[3664.46 --> 3673.22] Now, as a young boy in Isaac's story, he's taken up a mountain by his father Abraham -[3673.22 --> 3681.62] to possibly be the object of child sacrifice, a test that God had laid on his father Abraham. -[3682.16 --> 3688.22] And that too is another fascinating story, one that was referenced in Abraham's story, -[3688.22 --> 3689.80] which we looked at before. -[3690.72 --> 3696.48] But by God's grace, Isaac is rescued and a ram is provided in his place. -[3697.48 --> 3702.66] Because he is rescued and because a ram is offered up in his place, Isaac grows up. -[3703.00 --> 3704.64] He becomes a man. -[3704.76 --> 3706.66] He marries Rebecca. -[3706.66 --> 3714.10] And with his wife Rebecca, he repeats some of the same sins of his father Abraham -[3714.10 --> 3719.38] by lying to people about his relationship to her, saying that she is his sister. -[3721.16 --> 3725.40] Eventually, Isaac inherits everything from his father Abraham. -[3726.18 --> 3730.40] And he has his own children, who we know as Jacob and Esau. -[3730.72 --> 3734.62] Jacob and Esau have a very contentious relationship from the beginning. -[3734.62 --> 3736.32] They are born as twins. -[3736.82 --> 3739.76] Esau, the older brother, comes out first. -[3740.22 --> 3743.10] But Jacob comes out grasping at his heel. -[3744.70 --> 3747.42] Esau grows to become Abraham's favorite. -[3748.06 --> 3751.06] Jacob grows to become Rebecca's favorite. -[3752.16 --> 3757.52] In their story, Jacob connives away to take his brother's birthright -[3757.52 --> 3759.40] for the price of a bowl of soup. -[3759.40 --> 3764.38] And as we read in Genesis 27, as the girls read for us, -[3764.68 --> 3766.48] Isaac is duped. -[3767.48 --> 3773.98] And Esau's blessing, like the birthright, is stolen by Jacob and Rebecca's scheming. -[3776.48 --> 3782.54] But it's right there that the story, for our purposes at least this morning, -[3783.06 --> 3784.58] gets really interesting. -[3784.58 --> 3792.78] Because it's Jacob's scheming and Isaac being duped by his son -[3792.78 --> 3800.28] that Isaac emerges as a faith hero, according to Hebrews 11. -[3801.42 --> 3803.50] Now that seems crazy to me. -[3805.18 --> 3808.72] Here's a man who is tricked, right? -[3808.72 --> 3815.20] And yet somehow, God is in control of even these situations, -[3815.90 --> 3816.92] even this circumstance. -[3818.52 --> 3822.26] Now, in most cases, when you're reading your Bible, -[3822.74 --> 3829.28] it's not a good idea to try and assume or discern the intentions of biblical characters -[3829.28 --> 3832.88] in the story unless the Bible tells you their intentions. -[3832.88 --> 3833.32] Right? -[3834.08 --> 3840.20] Just like it's not wise to assume or to make conclusions about the intentions of people -[3840.20 --> 3842.98] in your life unless they tell you those intentions. -[3843.80 --> 3846.06] That's where miscommunication comes. -[3846.94 --> 3849.60] But it's clear, I think, in this text, -[3850.02 --> 3855.26] that Jacob and Rebecca's intentions are deceitful and are for dishonest gain. -[3855.26 --> 3860.40] And yet, what we see throughout is that God is sovereign -[3860.40 --> 3865.34] and that God uses Isaac to accomplish what we're going to call this morning -[3865.34 --> 3867.30] his covenant purposes. -[3869.12 --> 3873.56] And so I've made reference already, but Hebrews 11 verse 20 says, -[3874.74 --> 3881.00] By faith, Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau in regard to their future. -[3881.00 --> 3889.58] Now, if you are like me, I have a tendency to default to skepticism. -[3890.18 --> 3894.68] And sometimes that default grows a little bit too strong and it becomes cynicism. -[3895.36 --> 3898.52] And so I'm going to say, with candidness in front of you, -[3898.88 --> 3900.90] the first time I read this, -[3901.96 --> 3905.30] I kind of wondered if maybe this was a whitewashing of history. -[3905.30 --> 3905.98] Right? -[3907.06 --> 3912.26] Is this the sake of sanitizing a story for the sake of those who come after? -[3913.24 --> 3913.78] But you know what? -[3913.80 --> 3914.90] I don't think it is. -[3917.00 --> 3921.02] Maybe you were here this summer when we looked at the story of Joseph, -[3922.20 --> 3923.94] another faith hero. -[3924.70 --> 3927.02] But in Genesis 50 verse 20, -[3927.54 --> 3930.86] Joseph is standing in front of his brothers who lied to him, -[3930.94 --> 3932.72] who sold him into slavery, -[3932.72 --> 3936.88] who lied to their father saying that he was dead and killed by animals. -[3937.76 --> 3939.66] And Joseph says to them, -[3940.00 --> 3942.00] You intended to harm me, -[3942.50 --> 3945.08] but God intended it for good, -[3945.34 --> 3947.74] to accomplish what is now being done, -[3948.04 --> 3949.80] the saving of many lives. -[3951.02 --> 3951.20] Right? -[3951.28 --> 3954.28] God is so sovereign, we saw in that story, -[3954.28 --> 3957.72] that he is able to use the sin-filled intentions -[3957.72 --> 3961.08] of humans for his purposes, -[3961.50 --> 3962.50] for his good, -[3962.64 --> 3964.62] for the redemption of his people, -[3964.86 --> 3967.84] for the fulfilling of his covenant promises. -[3969.20 --> 3972.82] What I suggest to you is that the same sort of thing -[3972.82 --> 3975.76] is happening in Isaac's story. -[3977.02 --> 3977.14] Right? -[3977.28 --> 3980.58] Jacob intends to deceive his father. -[3981.34 --> 3984.34] Esau is given short shrift in the blessing, -[3984.34 --> 3986.24] and Isaac, throughout it all, -[3986.32 --> 3987.40] doesn't know any better. -[3988.52 --> 3988.78] Right? -[3988.82 --> 3990.00] He too is a skeptic. -[3990.06 --> 3991.02] He asks questions. -[3991.12 --> 3992.08] He tries to discern, -[3992.40 --> 3993.80] but he gets duped. -[3993.88 --> 3996.40] And yet, like Hebrews 11 verse 20 says, -[3996.74 --> 3999.56] By faith, Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau -[3999.56 --> 4000.68] in regard to their future. -[4001.06 --> 4001.90] This act, -[4002.94 --> 4004.44] even with all the dishonest gain, -[4004.58 --> 4005.62] even with all the deceit, -[4005.62 --> 4007.36] even with all the doubt and questioning, -[4007.70 --> 4009.98] is credited to Isaac -[4009.98 --> 4012.12] as an act of faith. -[4012.12 --> 4015.30] Even though he didn't fully understand -[4015.30 --> 4017.80] all that God was doing in the midst of it. -[4019.50 --> 4020.96] It is an act of faith. -[4022.86 --> 4024.52] And maybe, maybe, -[4024.72 --> 4025.96] that's the big idea -[4025.96 --> 4028.32] that we need to hear this morning. -[4029.26 --> 4029.58] Right? -[4029.70 --> 4032.68] Even though Isaac did not realize -[4032.68 --> 4036.06] everything that God was doing in that moment, -[4037.00 --> 4039.54] Isaac is a faith hero for us -[4039.54 --> 4042.54] because he blessed Jacob and Esau -[4042.54 --> 4044.28] in regards to their future, -[4044.48 --> 4047.58] even while he was on or near his deathbed. -[4048.54 --> 4049.72] And so, hear that. -[4050.82 --> 4050.98] Right? -[4051.20 --> 4054.54] You will never be able to -[4054.54 --> 4057.06] fully realize or recognize -[4057.06 --> 4059.04] or identify everything -[4059.04 --> 4061.50] that God is doing in the moment. -[4061.50 --> 4064.08] But like Isaac, -[4064.64 --> 4066.50] you can respond faithfully -[4066.50 --> 4068.38] to his covenant promises, -[4068.64 --> 4070.46] to God's covenant promises. -[4072.90 --> 4074.72] In the face of death, -[4075.88 --> 4076.96] Isaac believed -[4076.96 --> 4078.48] in the covenant promises of God -[4078.48 --> 4080.38] for a better country, -[4081.10 --> 4082.50] for a heavenly one, -[4082.56 --> 4084.12] a city whose foundations -[4084.12 --> 4087.14] and architect and builder is God. -[4087.14 --> 4089.82] And there's a running theme -[4089.82 --> 4092.62] that builds through Hebrews 11. -[4092.72 --> 4093.78] If you have your Bibles open, -[4094.08 --> 4094.94] I'm going to encourage you -[4094.94 --> 4096.00] to find Hebrews 11 -[4096.00 --> 4099.48] and maybe put a paper in Genesis 27 -[4099.48 --> 4100.78] as we'll come back and flip -[4100.78 --> 4102.74] or have Hebrews 11. -[4104.12 --> 4105.62] Anyway, have that in front of you. -[4105.82 --> 4107.22] There's this long section -[4107.22 --> 4108.80] starting in verse 8 -[4108.80 --> 4110.22] on the faith of Abraham. -[4111.14 --> 4111.62] Right? -[4111.96 --> 4114.94] And that ends with Abraham reasoning -[4114.94 --> 4116.78] that God could raise the dead. -[4118.10 --> 4120.40] And so, part of what we are seeing -[4120.40 --> 4122.02] and we've looked at before -[4122.02 --> 4124.76] is that in the face of death, -[4125.04 --> 4126.50] faith heroes hang on -[4126.50 --> 4127.76] to the promises of God. -[4128.24 --> 4130.28] Even when, perhaps especially when, -[4130.48 --> 4132.44] we can't understand God's purposes. -[4133.38 --> 4134.66] Even when we can't see -[4134.66 --> 4136.80] what God's intentions might be -[4136.80 --> 4138.80] in that particular moment. -[4140.00 --> 4141.46] And then it goes through, -[4141.60 --> 4143.34] each one following, right, -[4143.34 --> 4145.94] refers to receive him back from death -[4145.94 --> 4149.14] or bless them in regards -[4149.14 --> 4149.76] to their future -[4149.76 --> 4151.04] when he was near death. -[4151.26 --> 4152.38] And verse 21, -[4152.54 --> 4154.34] by faith Jacob when he was dying. -[4154.48 --> 4156.06] Verse 22, by faith Joseph -[4156.06 --> 4157.24] when his end was near. -[4158.32 --> 4158.56] Right? -[4158.70 --> 4160.18] We've looked at these stories -[4160.18 --> 4163.78] and so part of what's going on here -[4163.78 --> 4166.84] is faithfulness throughout life -[4166.84 --> 4169.76] but also in particular at the end. -[4169.76 --> 4173.28] And then part of what's going on -[4173.28 --> 4176.62] in the backstory to Jacob and Esau -[4176.62 --> 4181.24] is the question of who rightly, -[4181.92 --> 4183.76] according to particular standards, -[4184.26 --> 4185.74] gets the blessing -[4185.74 --> 4188.62] or who rightly will receive -[4188.62 --> 4190.50] the lion's share -[4190.50 --> 4192.58] or the bigger portion of that blessing. -[4193.42 --> 4195.60] Because normally in that culture -[4195.60 --> 4197.54] and actually throughout much of history, -[4197.54 --> 4201.06] the custom is for the firstborn -[4201.06 --> 4202.76] to get the larger share -[4202.76 --> 4203.50] of the inheritance, -[4203.88 --> 4204.88] to get the blessing. -[4205.82 --> 4207.20] We've talked about this before. -[4207.48 --> 4210.12] This is called the rule of primogeniture. -[4210.98 --> 4211.10] Right? -[4211.18 --> 4213.04] Primo meaning first geniture. -[4213.20 --> 4214.50] You can hear the root word in there, -[4214.64 --> 4216.10] generations, right, -[4216.18 --> 4216.82] being born. -[4216.94 --> 4217.82] So the firstborn. -[4219.40 --> 4221.54] And in the ordinary economy -[4222.08 --> 4223.42] of human operations -[4223.42 --> 4224.60] throughout history, -[4224.60 --> 4226.44] it is the firstborn -[4226.44 --> 4228.56] and usually in most cultures -[4228.56 --> 4229.90] the firstborn son -[4229.90 --> 4231.92] that receives the inheritance, -[4232.18 --> 4234.66] that receives the lion's share -[4234.66 --> 4235.44] of the blessing. -[4236.64 --> 4239.34] But over and over and over -[4239.34 --> 4240.28] in the Bible, -[4240.70 --> 4241.92] what we begin to see -[4241.92 --> 4243.20] is that God's ways -[4243.20 --> 4244.76] are not our ways. -[4245.22 --> 4246.72] That God is not bound -[4246.72 --> 4248.10] by the customs of men -[4248.10 --> 4249.78] and so his purposes -[4249.78 --> 4251.76] and his electing power -[4251.76 --> 4253.46] are often worked out -[4253.46 --> 4255.36] in unordinary ways, -[4256.06 --> 4257.26] in ways that don't match -[4257.26 --> 4259.48] with what our cultural expectation -[4259.48 --> 4260.54] might be. -[4261.20 --> 4261.54] In fact, -[4261.64 --> 4264.02] God regularly inverts expectations -[4264.02 --> 4266.22] to show that his power -[4266.22 --> 4267.36] is made perfect -[4267.36 --> 4268.54] in human weakness. -[4269.56 --> 4269.68] Right? -[4269.74 --> 4270.68] God regularly works -[4270.68 --> 4271.82] to show that the last -[4271.82 --> 4272.66] shall be first -[4272.66 --> 4273.74] or that the greatest -[4273.74 --> 4274.70] are made low -[4274.70 --> 4275.70] and that the lowest -[4275.70 --> 4276.56] are lifted up -[4276.56 --> 4277.86] to the right hand of the king. -[4278.18 --> 4278.90] And you see this -[4278.90 --> 4280.16] over and over and over -[4280.16 --> 4280.70] in the Bible. -[4280.90 --> 4281.92] Just to trace it through -[4281.92 --> 4282.94] the stories we've already -[4282.94 --> 4283.86] looked at this summer, -[4284.40 --> 4286.16] the weaker and younger Abel -[4286.16 --> 4288.32] is chosen over the stronger -[4288.32 --> 4289.72] and older Cain. -[4290.64 --> 4292.48] Isaac is the son of the promise, -[4292.60 --> 4293.70] but he's not the firstborn. -[4294.04 --> 4295.12] That's Ishmael. -[4295.82 --> 4296.96] And now it is Jacob, -[4297.66 --> 4299.66] weaker and younger than Esau, -[4300.12 --> 4300.96] who gets the blessing. -[4303.62 --> 4306.52] Quoting Romans 2 and Romans 9, -[4306.52 --> 4308.60] Bible scholar, -[4308.82 --> 4310.30] theologian Philip Hughes -[4310.30 --> 4311.78] sums it up well. -[4311.86 --> 4313.02] And I'll share this with you. -[4313.80 --> 4314.36] He writes, -[4314.68 --> 4316.62] The message is clear. -[4317.50 --> 4318.86] The line of promise -[4318.86 --> 4320.48] is not the line of flesh, -[4320.48 --> 4322.04] but the line of faith. -[4322.76 --> 4323.76] The true heir -[4323.76 --> 4325.26] is not the outward heir, -[4325.38 --> 4326.96] but the inward heir. -[4327.76 --> 4329.18] Not all who are descended -[4329.18 --> 4329.90] from Israel -[4329.90 --> 4331.16] belong to Israel. -[4331.56 --> 4332.60] Not all who are children -[4332.60 --> 4333.48] of Abraham, -[4333.48 --> 4336.06] not all are children of Abraham, -[4336.20 --> 4337.64] because they are descendants. -[4339.26 --> 4340.80] Not the line of flesh, -[4341.10 --> 4343.28] but the line of faith. -[4345.62 --> 4346.78] And here's the thing. -[4348.70 --> 4350.80] It's so easy -[4350.80 --> 4354.08] for us to think of faith -[4354.08 --> 4356.86] as a work that we do. -[4358.12 --> 4358.66] And of course, -[4358.78 --> 4359.52] in one sense, -[4359.78 --> 4360.78] that's true, right? -[4360.78 --> 4362.78] Like, colloquially, -[4362.78 --> 4365.60] we use the word faith, -[4365.90 --> 4367.20] and that requires action. -[4367.40 --> 4368.96] Faith calls forth -[4368.96 --> 4369.90] a response -[4369.90 --> 4371.08] on our part. -[4371.80 --> 4373.44] But the kind of faith -[4373.44 --> 4374.58] that identifies -[4374.58 --> 4376.10] Jacob -[4376.10 --> 4377.36] as the agent -[4377.36 --> 4379.42] of God's covenant promise, -[4379.60 --> 4380.38] through whom -[4380.38 --> 4381.20] the whole story -[4381.20 --> 4381.74] of redemption -[4381.74 --> 4382.58] would continue, -[4383.00 --> 4384.10] the kind of faith -[4384.10 --> 4385.52] that identifies Isaac, -[4385.88 --> 4386.92] and before him -[4386.92 --> 4388.22] identified Abraham, -[4388.22 --> 4391.54] as part of the covenant promise, -[4391.70 --> 4393.72] that kind of faith -[4393.72 --> 4394.38] is rooted -[4394.38 --> 4396.02] only in -[4396.02 --> 4397.72] God's choosing. -[4399.44 --> 4399.58] Right? -[4399.72 --> 4400.62] God chose -[4400.62 --> 4401.26] Jacob, -[4402.22 --> 4403.96] and therefore, -[4404.94 --> 4406.06] through Isaac, -[4406.58 --> 4407.36] God blessed him. -[4409.04 --> 4409.42] And look, -[4410.20 --> 4413.64] this is going to be contentious -[4413.64 --> 4414.94] for some of you. -[4415.86 --> 4416.78] That this is going to be -[4416.78 --> 4417.54] a hard truth -[4417.54 --> 4419.04] to wrestle with. -[4420.50 --> 4421.84] And the prophet Malachi -[4421.84 --> 4422.76] actually makes -[4422.76 --> 4423.56] the same point -[4423.56 --> 4425.10] that we are making now. -[4425.20 --> 4426.52] In Malachi chapter 1, -[4426.60 --> 4427.70] verse 2 and 3, -[4428.22 --> 4429.02] he says, -[4429.70 --> 4432.02] Yet I have loved Jacob, -[4432.20 --> 4433.14] this is God speaking, -[4433.70 --> 4434.54] but Esau -[4434.54 --> 4436.08] I have hated. -[4438.76 --> 4440.12] That's the language -[4440.12 --> 4442.26] of covenant choosing. -[4443.38 --> 4443.60] Right? -[4443.62 --> 4444.38] This is the language -[4444.38 --> 4445.22] of election. -[4445.22 --> 4446.62] And I know -[4446.62 --> 4447.34] some of you are -[4447.34 --> 4449.94] but God -[4449.94 --> 4450.78] who is sovereign -[4450.78 --> 4451.62] over all, -[4451.80 --> 4452.56] who rules -[4452.56 --> 4453.36] and reigns -[4453.36 --> 4454.20] and acts -[4454.20 --> 4455.30] with providence, -[4455.50 --> 4456.00] that is, -[4456.10 --> 4457.44] that all that happens -[4457.44 --> 4457.96] in the world -[4457.96 --> 4459.50] happens by his hand. -[4459.76 --> 4460.98] He directs history -[4460.98 --> 4461.90] and has chosen -[4461.90 --> 4462.88] its outcome, -[4463.14 --> 4463.86] and he directs -[4463.86 --> 4464.96] the means also -[4464.96 --> 4466.46] by which we get there. -[4466.58 --> 4466.94] And so, -[4467.08 --> 4467.98] what he does -[4467.98 --> 4469.06] in the world, -[4469.44 --> 4471.18] he does primarily -[4471.18 --> 4472.44] then through -[4472.44 --> 4473.72] his agents, -[4473.72 --> 4475.56] through his image bearers, -[4475.90 --> 4477.18] through his chosen people. -[4479.00 --> 4479.10] Right? -[4479.24 --> 4481.06] Isaac blessing Jacob -[4481.06 --> 4482.76] helps us to see -[4482.76 --> 4483.96] that it's not -[4483.96 --> 4485.76] the ordinary means -[4485.76 --> 4486.94] of flesh -[4486.94 --> 4488.22] or of power -[4488.22 --> 4489.42] or of privilege. -[4489.78 --> 4491.30] It's not the ordinary means -[4491.30 --> 4492.02] of popularity -[4492.02 --> 4493.54] or democratic rule -[4493.54 --> 4494.52] that God makes -[4494.52 --> 4495.60] his selection by, -[4495.60 --> 4498.48] but it is by grace -[4498.48 --> 4500.44] through faith. -[4500.44 --> 4502.56] And in fact, -[4502.62 --> 4503.42] we can keep adding -[4503.42 --> 4504.64] on how contentious -[4504.64 --> 4505.24] this is -[4505.24 --> 4506.18] because Jesus -[4506.18 --> 4507.54] makes the same point. -[4508.54 --> 4509.40] In Luke 14, -[4509.66 --> 4510.00] Jesus, -[4510.60 --> 4511.32] talking to -[4511.32 --> 4512.48] the large crowds -[4512.48 --> 4513.08] that have gathered, -[4513.20 --> 4513.86] we can read this. -[4513.94 --> 4514.16] He says, -[4514.16 --> 4516.30] large crowds -[4516.30 --> 4516.90] were traveling -[4516.90 --> 4517.50] with Jesus -[4517.50 --> 4519.04] and turning to them, -[4519.14 --> 4519.66] he said, -[4520.58 --> 4521.64] if anyone comes -[4521.64 --> 4522.24] to me -[4522.24 --> 4523.14] and does not -[4523.14 --> 4524.10] hate father -[4524.10 --> 4525.04] or mother, -[4525.58 --> 4526.78] wife and children, -[4527.26 --> 4528.30] brothers and sisters, -[4528.56 --> 4528.82] yes, -[4528.96 --> 4530.58] even their own life, -[4531.02 --> 4531.70] such a person -[4531.70 --> 4533.04] cannot be my disciple. -[4533.76 --> 4534.22] And whoever -[4534.22 --> 4535.02] does not carry -[4535.02 --> 4535.70] their cross -[4535.70 --> 4536.64] and follow me -[4536.64 --> 4537.72] cannot be -[4537.72 --> 4539.14] my disciple. -[4541.98 --> 4543.32] Jesus' point -[4543.32 --> 4545.40] is that you must -[4545.40 --> 4546.66] choose God -[4546.66 --> 4548.30] over any other -[4548.30 --> 4548.88] relationship. -[4550.10 --> 4551.16] You must choose -[4551.16 --> 4551.82] the relationship -[4551.82 --> 4552.64] of faith -[4552.64 --> 4554.68] over the relationship -[4554.68 --> 4555.32] of flesh. -[4557.12 --> 4557.54] Now, -[4557.60 --> 4558.18] like we said, -[4558.64 --> 4559.36] this is a really -[4559.36 --> 4560.28] hard word -[4560.28 --> 4561.94] for many of us. -[4563.42 --> 4564.22] Part of why -[4564.22 --> 4564.98] it's so hard -[4564.98 --> 4565.90] for most of us -[4565.90 --> 4566.74] is because -[4566.74 --> 4568.74] most of us, -[4568.78 --> 4569.64] if not all of us, -[4569.82 --> 4570.80] have made an idol -[4570.80 --> 4572.30] out of our families. -[4573.32 --> 4575.44] Many of us -[4575.44 --> 4576.08] think about -[4576.08 --> 4577.60] our biological families -[4577.60 --> 4578.54] as being more -[4578.54 --> 4579.46] closely related -[4579.46 --> 4580.02] to us -[4580.02 --> 4580.84] than our family -[4580.84 --> 4581.32] of faith. -[4582.52 --> 4583.60] And I get it. -[4584.30 --> 4584.72] And please, -[4584.96 --> 4585.68] don't hear what -[4585.68 --> 4586.14] I'm not saying. -[4586.22 --> 4586.80] I don't want -[4586.80 --> 4587.70] to be insensitive. -[4588.48 --> 4589.20] Because yes, -[4589.34 --> 4590.16] all of us, -[4590.42 --> 4591.24] all of us -[4591.24 --> 4592.10] have a family member, -[4592.20 --> 4593.42] a son or a daughter, -[4593.56 --> 4594.46] a brother or a sister -[4594.46 --> 4595.02] or an uncle -[4595.02 --> 4595.58] or an aunt, -[4595.92 --> 4597.14] someone who no longer -[4597.14 --> 4597.60] believes -[4597.60 --> 4598.16] or who maybe -[4598.16 --> 4599.34] never believed. -[4599.34 --> 4601.70] But one of the reasons -[4601.70 --> 4602.38] I'm going to suggest -[4602.38 --> 4603.14] that that breaks -[4603.14 --> 4603.84] our heart -[4603.84 --> 4605.24] is because we know -[4605.24 --> 4606.16] that the relationship -[4606.16 --> 4606.72] to God, -[4606.78 --> 4607.16] our Father, -[4607.26 --> 4608.10] through Jesus Christ, -[4608.26 --> 4608.78] our Lord, -[4608.84 --> 4609.82] is more important -[4609.82 --> 4610.94] and more meaningful -[4610.94 --> 4611.98] and more valuable -[4611.98 --> 4613.92] than even our relationship -[4613.92 --> 4615.36] to sons and daughters, -[4615.46 --> 4616.40] even our relationships -[4616.40 --> 4617.54] as family members. -[4620.10 --> 4621.18] The truth, -[4621.18 --> 4624.48] the truth is -[4624.48 --> 4625.44] that where it matters -[4625.44 --> 4626.22] most, -[4626.90 --> 4628.52] at the level of belief -[4628.52 --> 4629.50] and faith, -[4629.58 --> 4630.88] at the level of identity -[4630.88 --> 4632.58] as a son or daughter -[4632.58 --> 4633.46] of God, -[4634.34 --> 4635.62] where it matters most, -[4635.74 --> 4636.72] you share more -[4636.72 --> 4637.46] in common -[4637.46 --> 4638.50] with a brother -[4638.50 --> 4640.00] or sister in Christ -[4640.00 --> 4641.50] than you do -[4641.50 --> 4641.94] with someone -[4641.94 --> 4642.88] who does not believe. -[4645.66 --> 4646.62] And if you aren't -[4646.62 --> 4647.50] sure about this, -[4648.56 --> 4650.78] talk to the believing woman -[4650.78 --> 4652.18] whose husband -[4652.18 --> 4653.40] refuses to believe. -[4655.36 --> 4655.56] Right? -[4655.60 --> 4656.36] Not sharing -[4656.36 --> 4657.20] that identity -[4657.20 --> 4657.82] on the level -[4657.82 --> 4659.04] of faith and belief -[4659.04 --> 4660.44] makes every other -[4660.44 --> 4662.14] connection difficult. -[4662.98 --> 4663.20] Right? -[4663.22 --> 4663.88] Not impossible, -[4664.58 --> 4665.64] but more difficult -[4665.64 --> 4666.86] than it would otherwise be -[4666.86 --> 4668.28] and often -[4668.28 --> 4670.16] not as deep -[4670.16 --> 4672.06] as she would desire. -[4674.02 --> 4674.38] And so, -[4675.32 --> 4675.92] young men, -[4676.58 --> 4677.20] young women, -[4677.82 --> 4679.12] think very carefully -[4679.12 --> 4680.64] before you date someone -[4680.64 --> 4682.08] who doesn't share -[4682.08 --> 4683.16] your belief. -[4686.22 --> 4688.22] The story of Isaac -[4688.22 --> 4690.24] as a faith hero -[4690.24 --> 4691.96] underscores -[4691.96 --> 4694.14] the relational identity -[4694.14 --> 4695.50] that we share -[4695.50 --> 4696.24] to God -[4696.24 --> 4697.34] through faith -[4697.34 --> 4698.38] as the single -[4698.38 --> 4699.56] most determining -[4699.56 --> 4700.44] factor -[4700.44 --> 4701.62] for our lives -[4701.62 --> 4702.18] in the world. -[4704.22 --> 4705.82] Isaac was used -[4705.82 --> 4706.38] of God -[4706.38 --> 4707.04] to bless -[4707.04 --> 4707.76] Jacob, -[4707.92 --> 4708.70] to move -[4708.70 --> 4709.30] the drama -[4709.30 --> 4710.20] of redemption -[4710.20 --> 4711.16] forward. -[4711.74 --> 4711.88] And so, -[4711.96 --> 4712.96] look at the blessing, -[4713.16 --> 4713.90] and here we'll jump back -[4713.90 --> 4715.22] to Genesis 27 now. -[4716.22 --> 4717.22] Look at the blessing -[4717.22 --> 4718.66] that Jacob, -[4720.22 --> 4720.94] or that Isaac, -[4721.14 --> 4722.60] speaks over Jacob -[4722.60 --> 4724.60] in our text, -[4724.76 --> 4726.64] starting in verse 28. -[4726.64 --> 4729.82] May God give you -[4729.82 --> 4730.86] heaven's due -[4730.86 --> 4732.74] and earth's riches, -[4733.28 --> 4733.78] an abundance -[4733.78 --> 4734.68] of grain -[4734.68 --> 4736.58] and new wine. -[4737.36 --> 4738.32] May nations -[4738.32 --> 4739.12] serve you -[4739.12 --> 4739.92] and peoples -[4739.92 --> 4740.86] bow down -[4740.86 --> 4741.60] to you. -[4742.28 --> 4743.10] Be Lord -[4743.10 --> 4744.06] over your brothers -[4744.06 --> 4745.54] and may the sons -[4745.54 --> 4746.32] of your mother -[4746.32 --> 4747.46] bow down to you. -[4747.60 --> 4748.68] May those who curse -[4748.68 --> 4749.56] you be cursed -[4749.56 --> 4750.78] and those who bless -[4750.78 --> 4751.24] you -[4751.24 --> 4752.76] be blessed. -[4752.76 --> 4754.36] Now, -[4754.42 --> 4755.24] in those words, -[4755.34 --> 4756.16] you might hear -[4756.16 --> 4757.04] an echo -[4757.04 --> 4758.26] of God's promise -[4758.26 --> 4759.62] spoken to Abraham. -[4760.26 --> 4761.20] And in those words, -[4761.26 --> 4762.02] you will hear -[4762.02 --> 4762.68] a sort of -[4762.68 --> 4764.36] anticipation echo -[4764.36 --> 4765.52] of the language -[4765.52 --> 4766.70] that God will speak -[4766.70 --> 4767.58] to Joseph. -[4769.06 --> 4769.40] Right? -[4769.46 --> 4770.10] A promise -[4770.10 --> 4771.36] first to make him -[4771.36 --> 4772.24] into a great nation -[4772.24 --> 4773.30] and then to Joseph -[4773.30 --> 4774.08] for brothers -[4774.08 --> 4774.94] to bow down -[4774.94 --> 4776.04] and then the promise -[4776.04 --> 4776.76] back to Abraham -[4776.76 --> 4777.62] for those who curse -[4777.62 --> 4778.82] you to be cursed -[4778.82 --> 4779.62] and those who bless -[4779.62 --> 4781.14] you to be blessed. -[4781.14 --> 4782.48] But then, -[4782.90 --> 4784.16] listen in contrast -[4784.16 --> 4785.40] to the words -[4785.40 --> 4786.18] that Isaac -[4786.18 --> 4787.04] speaks -[4787.04 --> 4788.42] to Esau. -[4788.78 --> 4789.42] Flip the page -[4789.42 --> 4790.24] or at least in my Bible, -[4790.38 --> 4790.98] flip the page, -[4791.08 --> 4791.80] verse 39. -[4793.60 --> 4794.44] Your dwelling -[4794.44 --> 4795.50] will be away -[4795.50 --> 4797.12] from the earth's riches, -[4797.36 --> 4798.52] away from the dew -[4798.52 --> 4799.74] of heaven above. -[4800.46 --> 4801.08] Now notice -[4801.08 --> 4801.84] carefully -[4801.84 --> 4802.88] how that's -[4802.88 --> 4804.32] the opposite language -[4804.32 --> 4806.00] of Jacob's blessing. -[4806.82 --> 4807.54] And he continues, -[4808.06 --> 4809.08] you will live -[4809.08 --> 4809.76] by the sword -[4809.76 --> 4810.72] and you will serve -[4810.72 --> 4811.42] your brother. -[4812.10 --> 4812.48] Again, -[4812.68 --> 4814.08] it's the opposite language -[4814.08 --> 4814.90] because Jacob -[4814.90 --> 4815.62] is told -[4815.62 --> 4816.38] that his family -[4816.38 --> 4817.54] will bow down to him -[4817.54 --> 4818.78] and that he will prosper. -[4819.92 --> 4820.80] Esau is told -[4820.80 --> 4821.60] that he will be -[4821.60 --> 4822.38] the one bowing. -[4823.56 --> 4824.26] But Esau -[4824.26 --> 4825.36] is also given -[4825.36 --> 4826.60] a promise. -[4827.62 --> 4828.42] But when you grow -[4828.42 --> 4828.96] restless, -[4829.54 --> 4830.34] you will throw -[4830.34 --> 4831.28] his yoke -[4831.28 --> 4831.98] from off -[4831.98 --> 4833.06] your neck. -[4834.40 --> 4835.20] And here, -[4835.44 --> 4835.80] perhaps, -[4836.64 --> 4837.72] is the only word -[4837.72 --> 4838.56] of hope -[4838.56 --> 4839.68] that Esau gets. -[4839.68 --> 4840.92] that at some point -[4840.92 --> 4842.00] in their history, -[4842.44 --> 4843.56] Esau will no longer -[4843.56 --> 4845.14] remain under the thumb -[4845.14 --> 4846.50] of Jacob. -[4847.38 --> 4848.48] And I'm going to suggest -[4848.48 --> 4849.90] that this is a promise -[4849.90 --> 4851.38] and a goodness of God -[4851.38 --> 4853.08] revealed in his common grace -[4853.08 --> 4855.10] even to Esau, -[4855.20 --> 4855.86] a common grace -[4855.86 --> 4856.98] that is available to him -[4856.98 --> 4858.38] because if you read the story, -[4858.58 --> 4860.00] that does eventually happen. -[4860.14 --> 4861.64] Esau's line continues. -[4862.12 --> 4863.28] He separates out -[4863.28 --> 4864.08] from his brother. -[4864.28 --> 4865.60] He moves into the land -[4865.60 --> 4866.54] of Canaan -[4866.54 --> 4867.48] where he grows -[4867.48 --> 4868.06] and he grows -[4868.06 --> 4868.96] and eventually -[4868.96 --> 4870.70] we know him -[4870.70 --> 4871.44] as the father -[4871.44 --> 4872.42] of the Edomites, -[4873.08 --> 4874.16] a people who live -[4874.16 --> 4874.90] in the hill country -[4874.90 --> 4875.44] of Seir. -[4875.52 --> 4876.38] He's grown into -[4876.38 --> 4878.32] his own great nation, -[4878.48 --> 4880.16] but he's not -[4880.16 --> 4882.86] the chosen nation. -[4885.06 --> 4885.96] And so let me land -[4885.96 --> 4886.38] the plane -[4886.38 --> 4887.96] here with this. -[4890.00 --> 4891.72] Isaac is a faith hero -[4891.72 --> 4894.88] because he blesses Jacob. -[4896.04 --> 4896.86] He didn't know -[4896.86 --> 4897.60] what he was doing, -[4898.66 --> 4900.02] but God used him. -[4901.64 --> 4903.58] God chose Isaac -[4903.58 --> 4905.18] and God chose Jacob -[4905.18 --> 4907.14] and so he used them. -[4908.56 --> 4909.80] The only qualification -[4909.80 --> 4910.90] you need -[4910.90 --> 4912.52] to be a faith hero -[4912.52 --> 4914.26] is to be chosen by God. -[4915.06 --> 4916.10] And if today, -[4916.24 --> 4917.56] by grace through faith, -[4917.56 --> 4918.62] you believe, -[4918.94 --> 4920.48] you are chosen by God. -[4920.48 --> 4920.52] God. -[4921.46 --> 4923.26] And so you are, -[4923.40 --> 4924.46] or at least you can be, -[4924.62 --> 4926.30] someone's faith hero. -[4927.66 --> 4928.06] You see, -[4928.22 --> 4929.52] it's not about -[4929.52 --> 4931.30] who you choose. -[4932.28 --> 4932.88] It's about -[4932.88 --> 4933.76] who has chosen you. -[4935.04 --> 4935.96] And when God -[4935.96 --> 4937.10] chooses you, -[4937.36 --> 4938.08] he changes -[4938.08 --> 4939.16] your family, -[4939.32 --> 4939.86] he changes -[4939.86 --> 4940.70] your life. -[4940.82 --> 4941.72] And like Isaac, -[4942.16 --> 4943.24] you may not have -[4943.24 --> 4944.18] the eyes to see it -[4944.18 --> 4945.10] in this moment. -[4946.00 --> 4947.24] But God will work -[4947.24 --> 4947.80] in you -[4947.80 --> 4948.64] and through you -[4948.64 --> 4950.64] to accomplish his purposes. -[4951.56 --> 4952.30] And we know -[4952.30 --> 4953.36] that that is true -[4953.36 --> 4954.96] because if you take -[4954.96 --> 4955.58] this story -[4955.58 --> 4956.90] and just zoom forward -[4956.90 --> 4957.82] throughout the rest -[4957.82 --> 4959.00] of the Old Testament, -[4959.14 --> 4959.66] throughout the rest -[4959.66 --> 4960.56] of the drama of Scripture, -[4960.84 --> 4961.66] it culminates -[4961.66 --> 4962.30] in the coming -[4962.30 --> 4963.32] of God himself -[4963.32 --> 4964.74] in Jesus Christ. -[4965.20 --> 4965.96] That the covenant -[4965.96 --> 4967.06] promises of God -[4967.06 --> 4968.68] spoken to Abraham -[4968.68 --> 4970.04] are fulfilled -[4970.04 --> 4972.04] in the person -[4972.04 --> 4973.60] of Jesus Christ. -[4973.74 --> 4974.72] The covenant promises -[4974.72 --> 4975.70] of God -[4975.70 --> 4976.98] spoken to Isaac -[4976.98 --> 4977.82] anticipated -[4977.82 --> 4978.84] in the ram -[4978.84 --> 4980.56] substitute sacrifice -[4980.56 --> 4981.42] are fulfilled -[4981.42 --> 4982.84] in the sacrifice -[4982.84 --> 4984.04] of Jesus. -[4984.26 --> 4985.04] Jesus comes -[4985.04 --> 4986.14] into the world -[4986.14 --> 4986.90] as the fulfillment -[4986.90 --> 4988.60] of God's covenant promises -[4988.60 --> 4989.32] and he lives -[4989.32 --> 4989.82] the life -[4989.82 --> 4990.78] we should have lived. -[4990.90 --> 4991.58] He knows -[4991.58 --> 4992.24] the plans -[4992.24 --> 4993.42] of the Father -[4993.42 --> 4994.38] and he lives -[4994.38 --> 4995.54] them perfectly -[4995.54 --> 4996.88] and he still -[4996.88 --> 4998.02] yet dies -[4998.02 --> 4998.82] the death -[4998.82 --> 5000.34] that we deserve. -[5000.34 --> 5003.70] You may not see -[5003.70 --> 5005.28] what God is doing -[5005.28 --> 5006.32] or how he's going -[5006.32 --> 5007.22] to accomplish it -[5007.22 --> 5009.20] but the very fact -[5009.20 --> 5010.24] of Jesus' life, -[5010.84 --> 5011.42] his death -[5011.42 --> 5012.72] and his resurrection -[5012.72 --> 5014.48] is a promise -[5014.48 --> 5015.06] for you, -[5015.32 --> 5015.90] a guarantee -[5015.90 --> 5016.72] for you -[5016.72 --> 5017.92] that God does. -[5018.46 --> 5019.08] He knows, -[5019.38 --> 5020.14] he sees -[5020.14 --> 5021.06] and he will call -[5021.06 --> 5022.16] and he will carry. -[5024.66 --> 5025.16] And so, -[5026.44 --> 5029.20] hear the covenant -[5029.20 --> 5030.70] promise of God -[5030.70 --> 5033.76] and ask -[5033.76 --> 5034.94] in spite -[5034.94 --> 5036.92] of the unknown -[5036.92 --> 5038.68] how can you -[5038.68 --> 5039.52] be used of God? -[5040.32 --> 5041.42] In spite of -[5041.42 --> 5042.72] not understanding -[5042.72 --> 5043.62] much of anything -[5043.62 --> 5045.64] of God's ways -[5045.64 --> 5046.92] how can we -[5046.92 --> 5047.70] be used by him? -[5050.20 --> 5051.22] I have a -[5051.22 --> 5052.66] friend, -[5054.32 --> 5055.00] she's become -[5055.00 --> 5055.50] a friend -[5055.50 --> 5057.50] who's a missionary -[5057.50 --> 5058.84] in North Africa -[5058.84 --> 5060.74] now I'm not -[5060.74 --> 5061.10] going to use -[5061.10 --> 5061.64] her name -[5061.64 --> 5063.62] because -[5063.62 --> 5064.86] where she serves -[5064.86 --> 5065.52] it's illegal -[5065.52 --> 5066.28] to be a Christian -[5066.28 --> 5066.64] missionary -[5066.64 --> 5067.78] and these -[5067.78 --> 5068.48] services are -[5068.48 --> 5068.90] recorded. -[5070.16 --> 5070.90] She sends -[5070.90 --> 5071.30] out -[5071.30 --> 5072.52] quarterly -[5072.52 --> 5073.14] updates -[5073.14 --> 5073.74] and tells -[5073.74 --> 5074.04] us -[5074.04 --> 5074.72] please don't -[5074.72 --> 5075.12] forward -[5075.12 --> 5075.90] these updates -[5075.90 --> 5076.30] to other -[5076.30 --> 5076.56] people -[5076.56 --> 5076.98] because they -[5076.98 --> 5077.32] can't be -[5077.32 --> 5077.96] circulated -[5077.96 --> 5078.66] because if -[5078.66 --> 5078.88] it gets -[5078.88 --> 5079.26] back to -[5079.26 --> 5079.66] the place -[5079.66 --> 5080.48] where she's -[5080.48 --> 5080.84] working -[5080.84 --> 5081.32] she could -[5081.32 --> 5082.10] be arrested -[5082.10 --> 5082.76] and tried -[5082.76 --> 5083.14] and -[5083.14 --> 5084.56] God forbid -[5084.56 --> 5085.76] even killed -[5085.76 --> 5086.40] for being a -[5086.40 --> 5086.68] missionary. -[5086.68 --> 5087.68] missionary -[5087.68 --> 5088.14] she's a -[5088.14 --> 5088.54] missionary -[5088.54 --> 5089.82] serving in -[5089.82 --> 5090.40] North Africa -[5090.40 --> 5091.72] and I get -[5091.72 --> 5092.26] her updates -[5092.26 --> 5092.68] and every -[5092.68 --> 5093.62] time we -[5093.62 --> 5094.38] read from -[5094.38 --> 5094.96] her and -[5094.96 --> 5095.64] and when -[5095.64 --> 5095.96] we lived -[5095.96 --> 5096.58] back east -[5096.58 --> 5097.76] usually once -[5097.76 --> 5098.24] a year or -[5098.24 --> 5098.62] once every -[5098.62 --> 5099.02] other year -[5099.02 --> 5099.34] she would -[5099.34 --> 5100.06] come and -[5100.06 --> 5100.48] visit the -[5100.48 --> 5100.88] church that -[5100.88 --> 5101.30] we were at -[5101.30 --> 5102.62] and she -[5102.62 --> 5103.08] would talk -[5103.08 --> 5103.88] about the -[5103.88 --> 5104.58] people that -[5104.58 --> 5105.32] she sees -[5105.32 --> 5105.90] converted -[5105.90 --> 5107.42] through the -[5107.42 --> 5108.44] ministry of -[5108.44 --> 5109.46] God in -[5109.46 --> 5109.70] the work -[5109.70 --> 5110.06] that she's -[5110.06 --> 5110.86] doing and -[5110.86 --> 5111.14] she would -[5111.14 --> 5111.68] talk about -[5111.68 --> 5112.38] those people -[5112.38 --> 5112.98] as her -[5112.98 --> 5114.26] brothers and -[5114.26 --> 5115.18] sisters as -[5115.18 --> 5116.06] her family -[5116.06 --> 5117.18] in Christ -[5117.18 --> 5118.38] Jesus and -[5118.38 --> 5119.74] she shows -[5119.74 --> 5120.72] to me at -[5120.72 --> 5121.24] least that -[5121.24 --> 5122.38] her willingness -[5122.38 --> 5123.32] and she -[5123.32 --> 5124.28] will express -[5124.28 --> 5125.82] explicitly that -[5125.82 --> 5126.24] she will -[5126.24 --> 5127.86] always go -[5127.86 --> 5128.34] to them. -[5130.06 --> 5130.94] In fact -[5130.94 --> 5132.10] during COVID -[5132.10 --> 5132.84] there was a -[5132.84 --> 5133.56] she was -[5133.56 --> 5135.68] on homestay -[5135.68 --> 5137.10] back here -[5137.10 --> 5137.68] in North -[5137.68 --> 5138.08] America -[5138.08 --> 5139.56] and was -[5139.56 --> 5140.14] unable to -[5140.14 --> 5142.00] return and -[5142.00 --> 5142.72] that lasted -[5142.72 --> 5143.40] about eight -[5143.40 --> 5144.14] months before -[5144.14 --> 5144.54] she could -[5144.54 --> 5145.08] finally get -[5145.08 --> 5145.74] back and -[5145.74 --> 5146.44] her heart -[5146.44 --> 5148.10] broke every -[5148.10 --> 5148.68] day for -[5148.68 --> 5149.18] those people -[5149.18 --> 5149.56] that she -[5149.56 --> 5150.00] couldn't -[5150.00 --> 5151.20] connect with. -[5151.46 --> 5152.06] She will -[5152.06 --> 5152.92] always go -[5152.92 --> 5153.34] to them -[5153.34 --> 5154.36] and she -[5154.36 --> 5155.90] describes a -[5155.90 --> 5156.60] love for -[5156.60 --> 5157.26] them that -[5157.26 --> 5158.80] is beyond -[5158.80 --> 5159.50] measure, a -[5159.50 --> 5159.90] love for -[5159.90 --> 5160.24] them that -[5160.24 --> 5160.80] can only -[5160.80 --> 5161.44] come from -[5161.44 --> 5161.94] the heart -[5161.94 --> 5162.62] of the -[5162.62 --> 5163.60] father and -[5163.60 --> 5164.38] she says -[5164.38 --> 5164.78] that she -[5164.78 --> 5165.34] has this -[5165.34 --> 5165.96] love for -[5165.96 --> 5166.92] them because -[5166.92 --> 5168.00] they share -[5168.00 --> 5169.20] a father. -[5171.00 --> 5171.42] See there's -[5171.42 --> 5173.12] this compelling -[5173.12 --> 5175.32] love that -[5175.32 --> 5176.76] we know -[5176.76 --> 5177.90] from being -[5177.90 --> 5179.54] chosen by -[5179.54 --> 5180.60] God. -[5181.72 --> 5182.86] Jacob I -[5182.86 --> 5184.18] have loved. -[5185.26 --> 5186.18] If by grace -[5186.18 --> 5187.08] through faith -[5187.08 --> 5188.20] God says to -[5188.20 --> 5189.88] you, I love -[5189.88 --> 5190.16] you. -[5190.86 --> 5191.90] You are my -[5191.90 --> 5193.08] son and -[5193.08 --> 5193.78] daughter and -[5193.78 --> 5195.28] so now we -[5195.28 --> 5195.80] go. -[5196.54 --> 5197.08] We may not -[5197.08 --> 5197.72] know how God -[5197.72 --> 5198.16] is at work -[5198.16 --> 5199.04] but he is and -[5199.04 --> 5200.22] so like Isaac -[5200.22 --> 5202.20] we go in -[5202.20 --> 5203.32] response to -[5203.32 --> 5203.86] the covenant -[5203.86 --> 5205.66] promises of -[5205.66 --> 5205.98] God. -[5208.02 --> 5209.00] Now precisely -[5209.00 --> 5209.78] because we -[5209.78 --> 5210.48] don't know -[5210.48 --> 5211.96] exactly the -[5211.96 --> 5212.38] way God -[5212.38 --> 5212.78] works, -[5213.64 --> 5214.10] precisely -[5214.10 --> 5214.96] because God's -[5214.96 --> 5215.98] ways are not -[5215.98 --> 5216.72] our ways, -[5217.06 --> 5217.68] he gives us -[5217.68 --> 5219.44] a family and -[5219.44 --> 5220.02] as a family -[5220.02 --> 5220.56] we have a -[5220.56 --> 5220.78] meal. -[5221.94 --> 5222.70] We come to -[5222.70 --> 5223.66] this table so -[5223.66 --> 5224.62] that God would -[5224.62 --> 5225.82] nourish us for -[5225.82 --> 5227.44] this journey of -[5227.44 --> 5227.96] faith. -[5227.96 --> 5228.40] faith. -[5228.40 --> 5229.56] We come to -[5229.56 --> 5230.34] this covenant -[5230.34 --> 5231.60] meal so that -[5231.60 --> 5232.86] by his grace -[5232.86 --> 5234.58] we here can -[5234.58 --> 5236.64] receive the -[5236.64 --> 5238.14] sustenance we -[5238.14 --> 5239.70] need to be -[5239.70 --> 5241.36] sent on our -[5241.36 --> 5241.62] way. -[5242.38 --> 5243.34] We come to -[5243.34 --> 5243.94] this table -[5243.94 --> 5246.32] because this is -[5246.32 --> 5246.88] where God -[5246.88 --> 5247.64] meets us, -[5248.22 --> 5249.06] fills us up, -[5249.42 --> 5250.26] and sends us -[5250.26 --> 5251.44] out in his -[5251.44 --> 5252.16] promise. -[5252.78 --> 5253.94] As we come to -[5253.94 --> 5254.60] this table we -[5254.60 --> 5255.22] have a liturgy -[5255.22 --> 5255.84] will be on -[5255.84 --> 5256.38] the screen -[5256.38 --> 5257.08] overhead. -[5257.34 --> 5258.00] I invite you -[5258.00 --> 5259.08] to participate -[5259.08 --> 5260.34] and to read -[5260.34 --> 5260.90] the portions -[5260.90 --> 5261.44] that are given -[5261.44 --> 5262.52] there for you. -[5263.32 --> 5264.08] Lift up your -[5264.08 --> 5264.44] hearts. -[5265.30 --> 5266.14] Lift up your -[5266.14 --> 5266.64] hearts to the -[5266.64 --> 5266.90] Lord. -[5267.42 --> 5268.06] Let us give -[5268.06 --> 5268.76] thanks to the -[5268.76 --> 5269.52] Lord our God. -[5270.24 --> 5271.26] It is right for -[5271.26 --> 5271.92] us to give -[5271.92 --> 5272.38] thanks. -[5272.90 --> 5273.32] Let's pray -[5273.32 --> 5273.68] together. -[5275.92 --> 5277.26] With joy we -[5277.26 --> 5278.20] praise you, -[5278.54 --> 5279.28] gracious God. -[5279.92 --> 5280.48] For you have -[5280.48 --> 5281.26] created heaven -[5281.26 --> 5281.84] and earth and -[5281.84 --> 5282.52] have made us in -[5282.52 --> 5282.94] your image. -[5283.28 --> 5283.70] You have kept -[5283.70 --> 5284.92] covenant with us, -[5284.92 --> 5286.02] even when we -[5286.02 --> 5286.88] fell into sin. -[5288.00 --> 5288.68] We give you -[5288.68 --> 5289.46] thanks for -[5289.46 --> 5290.24] Jesus Christ, -[5290.58 --> 5291.24] who by his -[5291.24 --> 5291.98] life, death, -[5292.08 --> 5292.66] and resurrection -[5292.66 --> 5293.72] opened to us -[5293.72 --> 5295.00] the way of -[5295.00 --> 5296.02] life everlasting. -[5297.16 --> 5297.50] Amen. -[5302.70 --> 5303.34] Jesus, -[5303.98 --> 5305.12] before he -[5305.12 --> 5305.74] suffered, -[5306.02 --> 5306.72] gave us -[5306.72 --> 5307.74] this memorial -[5307.74 --> 5309.38] of his -[5309.38 --> 5310.32] sacrifice -[5310.32 --> 5311.12] until he -[5311.12 --> 5311.68] comes again. -[5312.68 --> 5313.22] The Lord -[5313.22 --> 5313.54] Jesus, -[5313.70 --> 5314.12] on the night -[5314.12 --> 5314.50] that he -[5314.50 --> 5315.08] was -[5315.08 --> 5315.78] betrayed, -[5316.86 --> 5317.94] took bread. -[5319.20 --> 5319.66] And when he -[5319.66 --> 5319.98] had given -[5319.98 --> 5320.68] thanks, -[5321.00 --> 5321.62] he broke -[5321.62 --> 5322.16] it and he -[5322.16 --> 5322.42] said, -[5322.80 --> 5323.44] this is -[5323.44 --> 5324.64] my body -[5324.64 --> 5325.30] which is -[5325.30 --> 5325.74] for you. -[5326.38 --> 5327.06] Do this -[5327.06 --> 5327.88] in remembrance -[5327.88 --> 5328.92] of me. -[5331.82 --> 5332.74] In the same -[5332.74 --> 5333.10] way, -[5333.24 --> 5333.80] he took the -[5333.80 --> 5335.00] cup after -[5335.00 --> 5335.68] supper and -[5335.68 --> 5336.10] he said, -[5336.48 --> 5337.04] this cup -[5337.04 --> 5337.84] is the new -[5337.84 --> 5338.60] covenant in -[5338.60 --> 5339.28] my blood. -[5339.80 --> 5340.46] Do this -[5340.46 --> 5341.36] whenever you -[5341.36 --> 5341.88] drink it -[5341.88 --> 5342.80] in remembrance -[5342.80 --> 5343.64] of me. -[5346.76 --> 5347.36] For -[5347.36 --> 5348.20] whenever we -[5348.20 --> 5348.74] eat this -[5348.74 --> 5349.42] bread and -[5349.42 --> 5350.30] drink this -[5350.30 --> 5351.10] cup, we -[5351.10 --> 5351.98] proclaim the -[5351.98 --> 5352.68] Lord's death -[5352.68 --> 5354.10] until he -[5354.10 --> 5355.54] comes again. -[5357.34 --> 5358.72] This is the -[5358.72 --> 5359.80] mystery of -[5359.80 --> 5360.34] our faith. -[5360.34 --> 5365.88] your resurrection -[5365.88 --> 5366.76] we affirm -[5366.76 --> 5367.36] with joy. -[5368.18 --> 5368.82] Your coming -[5368.82 --> 5369.50] we await -[5369.50 --> 5370.10] with hope. -[5370.90 --> 5371.54] Glory be -[5371.54 --> 5372.20] to you, -[5372.46 --> 5373.08] Lord Jesus. -[5374.56 --> 5375.50] Church family, -[5375.92 --> 5376.30] the Lord -[5376.30 --> 5377.16] has prepared -[5377.16 --> 5377.82] his table -[5377.82 --> 5378.34] for all -[5378.34 --> 5379.14] who love -[5379.14 --> 5380.10] him and -[5380.10 --> 5380.84] trust in -[5380.84 --> 5381.78] him alone -[5381.78 --> 5382.68] for their -[5382.68 --> 5383.50] salvation. -[5383.96 --> 5384.34] And so, -[5384.50 --> 5385.02] come to -[5385.02 --> 5386.22] this table, -[5386.44 --> 5386.90] you who -[5386.90 --> 5387.62] have much -[5387.62 --> 5388.64] faith and -[5388.64 --> 5389.10] you who -[5389.10 --> 5389.52] would like -[5389.52 --> 5389.84] to have -[5389.84 --> 5390.10] more. -[5390.94 --> 5391.50] Come to -[5391.50 --> 5392.04] this table, -[5392.18 --> 5392.56] you who -[5392.56 --> 5392.94] have been -[5392.94 --> 5393.34] to this -[5393.34 --> 5393.74] sacrament -[5393.74 --> 5394.72] often and -[5394.72 --> 5395.16] you who -[5395.16 --> 5395.60] have not -[5395.60 --> 5396.12] been in -[5396.12 --> 5396.44] a long -[5396.44 --> 5396.84] time, -[5397.24 --> 5397.62] you who -[5397.62 --> 5398.16] have tried -[5398.16 --> 5398.74] to follow -[5398.74 --> 5399.44] Jesus and -[5399.44 --> 5399.90] you who -[5399.90 --> 5400.42] have failed, -[5400.80 --> 5401.24] come to -[5401.24 --> 5401.76] this table -[5401.76 --> 5402.60] because Jesus -[5402.60 --> 5404.22] is raised. -[5404.88 --> 5405.68] Come if -[5405.68 --> 5406.46] you are here -[5406.46 --> 5407.38] in person or -[5407.38 --> 5408.02] if you are -[5408.02 --> 5409.56] joining online, -[5409.80 --> 5411.10] come because -[5411.10 --> 5411.88] it is Christ -[5411.88 --> 5413.24] who invites us -[5413.24 --> 5414.12] here. -[5415.12 --> 5415.58] The gifts -[5415.58 --> 5416.14] of God -[5416.14 --> 5417.10] for the -[5417.10 --> 5418.12] people of -[5418.12 --> 5418.40] God. -[5419.10 --> 5420.36] as we -[5420.36 --> 5420.72] come to -[5420.72 --> 5421.10] the table -[5421.10 --> 5421.52] together, -[5422.16 --> 5422.76] we do -[5422.76 --> 5423.48] so here -[5423.48 --> 5424.32] by gathering -[5424.32 --> 5424.70] at the -[5424.70 --> 5425.38] front in -[5425.38 --> 5425.80] a circle -[5425.80 --> 5426.52] and so we -[5426.52 --> 5426.84] will have -[5426.84 --> 5427.92] elder ushers -[5427.92 --> 5428.90] indicating when -[5428.90 --> 5429.52] it is time -[5429.52 --> 5430.42] for you to -[5430.42 --> 5430.88] come up to -[5430.88 --> 5431.26] the front. -[5431.88 --> 5432.52] As you -[5432.52 --> 5433.06] come and -[5433.06 --> 5433.50] stand in -[5433.50 --> 5433.94] a circle, -[5434.14 --> 5434.38] we will -[5434.38 --> 5435.14] pass the -[5435.14 --> 5435.86] bread and -[5435.86 --> 5436.64] pass out -[5436.64 --> 5437.16] the juice -[5437.16 --> 5437.60] to you. -[5437.74 --> 5438.14] As you -[5438.14 --> 5438.88] receive the -[5438.88 --> 5439.48] bread and -[5439.48 --> 5440.02] pass it to -[5440.02 --> 5440.44] the person -[5440.44 --> 5441.10] beside you, -[5441.20 --> 5441.62] we invite -[5441.62 --> 5441.90] you to -[5441.90 --> 5442.38] say the -[5442.38 --> 5442.96] body of -[5442.96 --> 5443.38] Christ -[5443.38 --> 5443.98] given for -[5443.98 --> 5445.02] you and -[5445.02 --> 5445.32] then with -[5445.32 --> 5445.76] the juice -[5445.76 --> 5446.50] to say the -[5446.50 --> 5447.08] blood of -[5447.08 --> 5447.96] Christ shed -[5447.96 --> 5448.78] for you. -[5449.62 --> 5450.30] To begin, -[5450.42 --> 5450.72] I'm going to -[5450.72 --> 5451.74] invite all -[5451.74 --> 5452.22] those who -[5452.22 --> 5452.82] are helping -[5452.82 --> 5453.94] us facilitate -[5453.94 --> 5454.76] the service -[5454.76 --> 5455.46] and so we -[5455.46 --> 5456.00] have the -[5456.00 --> 5456.92] worship team -[5456.92 --> 5457.44] and the -[5457.44 --> 5458.14] sound people -[5458.14 --> 5459.04] and the -[5459.04 --> 5459.58] elders who -[5459.58 --> 5460.02] will serve -[5460.02 --> 5460.76] here and -[5460.76 --> 5461.58] in the -[5461.58 --> 5462.06] ushers as -[5462.06 --> 5462.46] well as the -[5462.46 --> 5463.18] prayer team -[5463.18 --> 5464.10] to come up -[5464.10 --> 5465.08] now to the -[5465.08 --> 5465.36] front. -[5465.56 --> 5466.14] We will serve -[5466.14 --> 5466.72] that group -[5466.72 --> 5467.72] and then they -[5467.72 --> 5468.14] will help -[5468.14 --> 5468.74] facilitate -[5468.74 --> 5469.88] throughout. -[5470.54 --> 5471.58] As we are -[5471.58 --> 5472.22] coming to the -[5472.22 --> 5472.76] table in our -[5472.76 --> 5473.42] different groups, -[5473.94 --> 5474.60] if you guys -[5474.60 --> 5475.10] come on up, -[5475.30 --> 5475.84] someone has to -[5475.84 --> 5476.28] come first, -[5476.36 --> 5476.60] there you -[5476.60 --> 5476.78] go. -[5477.68 --> 5478.24] If you -[5478.24 --> 5478.54] would like -[5478.54 --> 5479.22] prayer or -[5479.22 --> 5479.82] to pray with -[5479.82 --> 5480.34] someone or -[5480.34 --> 5481.10] be prayed over, -[5481.24 --> 5481.48] there are -[5481.48 --> 5482.00] people who -[5482.00 --> 5482.58] are in the -[5482.58 --> 5482.92] foyer, -[5483.48 --> 5483.98] they will -[5483.98 --> 5484.64] meet you and -[5484.64 --> 5485.32] pray with you. -[5485.74 --> 5486.36] They should -[5486.36 --> 5486.74] have name -[5486.74 --> 5487.72] tags on with -[5487.72 --> 5489.28] yellow squares -[5489.28 --> 5490.44] on them. -[5490.44 --> 5506.00] body of Christ -[5506.00 --> 5506.76] given for you. -[5508.60 --> 5509.42] Body of Christ -[5509.42 --> 5510.10] given for you. -[5516.56 --> 5517.38] Body of Christ -[5517.38 --> 5518.00] given for you. -[5518.00 --> 5520.28] Body of Christ -[5520.28 --> 5520.88] given for you. -[5536.88 --> 5537.68] Thank you. -[5537.68 --> 5547.50] Eat and -[5547.50 --> 5547.90] remember. -[5547.90 --> 5547.98] Remember. -[5561.40 --> 5562.30] Blood of Christ -[5562.30 --> 5562.96] shed for you. -[5566.64 --> 5567.54] Blood of Christ -[5567.54 --> 5568.20] blood of Christ -[5568.20 --> 5568.22] shed for you. -[5572.80 --> 5573.38] We're going to -[5573.38 --> 5573.98] let it go around. -[5597.54 --> 5615.14] drink and believe. -[5615.14 --> 5615.16] Drink and believe. -[5615.16 --> 5615.36] Give it up. -[5615.46 --> 5615.72] allow you. -[5617.10 --> 5617.42] Give it around. -[5617.42 --> 5618.00] Peace. -[5618.00 --> 5618.36] chron. -[5618.36 --> 5620.14] Vision and believe. -[5622.24 --> 5624.56] Alice accord -[5624.66 --> 5626.32] ented by the -[5630.28 --> 5630.60] standing toy implicate -[5630.66 --> 5631.74] in complete -[5631.74 --> 5632.04] deep -[5632.42 --> 5632.68] preferably -[5632.68 --> 5632.94] увати -[5632.94 --> 5635.34] combinat -[5635.34 --> 5635.74] giving. -[5635.76 --> 5635.98] focused -[5635.98 --> 5636.52] Thermal -[5636.52 --> 5637.88] giggles -[5637.88 --> 5637.98] 描 -[5637.98 --> 5638.70] 求 -[5638.70 --> 5639.48] Face -[5640.12 --> 5640.92] Ginger -[5640.92 --> 5641.18] ßer -[5641.18 --> 5641.82] ần -[5641.92 --> 5642.30] ganhar -[5642.30 --> 5642.78] об -[5642.78 --> 5642.86] Inhale -[5643.26 --> 5643.88] consid -[5643.88 --> 5655.46] Hi, bud. -[5673.88 --> 5695.88] Rock of ages left for me -[5695.88 --> 5700.88] Every hour of self in me -[5700.88 --> 5705.88] Let the waters and the blood -[5705.88 --> 5710.88] Crown my ruling side was cold -[5710.88 --> 5715.88] We will sing the double-kill -[5715.88 --> 5722.88] Sing the wrath that may be you -[5722.88 --> 5727.88] Not the levers of my hands -[5727.88 --> 5732.88] Can fulfill thy lost demands -[5732.88 --> 5737.88] Where my tears the rest will blow -[5737.88 --> 5742.88] Where my tears forever flow -[5742.88 --> 5747.88] O Savior God was cold -[5747.88 --> 5752.88] Thou hast saved and thou alone -[5752.88 --> 5759.88] Nothing in my hand I'm free -[5759.88 --> 5764.88] Send me to the cross I flee -[5764.88 --> 5769.88] May it come to thee for dress -[5769.88 --> 5774.88] Have this love to thee for praise -[5774.88 --> 5779.88] Thou art to the path to fly -[5779.88 --> 5784.88] Watch me, Savior, and I -[5784.88 --> 5787.88] I'm done -[5787.88 --> 5793.88] While I draw this fleeting prayer -[5793.88 --> 5798.88] Then I die shall close in there -[5798.88 --> 5803.88] When I soar to worlds unknown -[5803.88 --> 5808.88] Seen ye on my judgment throne -[5808.88 --> 5813.88] Rock of ages left for me -[5813.88 --> 5819.88] Let me hide myself in thee -[5819.88 --> 5820.88] Thank you, Savior -[5820.88 --> 5822.88] Amen -[5822.88 --> 5824.88] Amen -[5824.88 --> 5828.88] Lord -[5828.88 --> 5829.88] Let me see a息 -[5829.88 --> 5832.88] I need to show you -[5832.88 --> 5834.88] I won't sing -[5834.88 --> 5836.88] I am? -[5836.88 --> 5838.88] We will sing -[5838.88 --> 5843.34] Let me sing -[5843.88 --> 5844.88] �� -[5844.88 --> 5873.40] In peace I bow forever, I'll tell you my way. -[5873.40 --> 5882.32] And sorrows I see will fall. -[5884.50 --> 5893.62] Whatever my love does not be to say, -[5893.62 --> 5901.84] It is well, it is well in my soul. -[5903.40 --> 5913.78] It is well, it is well in my soul. -[5913.78 --> 5922.78] It is well, it is well in my soul. -[5922.78 --> 5933.78] O Satan should love it, the trials should fall, -[5933.78 --> 5942.78] And this was the sureest I told. -[5942.78 --> 5949.78] I'll tell you my way. -[5949.78 --> 5953.78] The love of the rest of the day, -[5953.78 --> 5961.78] And this is the love of the soul. -[5961.78 --> 5963.78] I'll tell you my way. -[5963.78 --> 5968.78] And this is the love of the soul. -[5968.78 --> 5969.78] I'll tell you my way. -[5969.78 --> 5971.78] I'll tell you my way. -[5971.78 --> 5972.78] I'll tell you my way. -[5972.78 --> 5973.78] I'll tell you my way. -[5973.78 --> 5974.78] I'll tell you my way. -[5974.78 --> 5975.78] I'll tell you my way. -[5975.78 --> 5976.78] I'll tell you my way. -[5976.78 --> 5977.78] I'll tell you my way. -[5977.78 --> 5978.78] I'll tell you my way. -[5978.78 --> 5979.78] I'll tell you my way. -[5979.78 --> 5994.78] I sing all the praise of His glorious God. -[5994.78 --> 6003.78] I sing not in part but the whole. -[6003.78 --> 6024.78] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord of the Son. -[6024.78 --> 6044.78] He is well, He is well with my soul. -[6044.78 --> 6056.78] Till the Lord makes the day when our days shall be sung. -[6056.78 --> 6066.78] The clouds be opened as a storm. -[6066.78 --> 6076.78] The dawn shall be found, and the Lord shall be sent. -[6076.78 --> 6085.78] He is well, He is well with my soul. -[6085.78 --> 6099.78] He is well, He is well with my soul. -[6099.78 --> 6111.78] He is well, He is well with my soul. -[6111.78 --> 6121.78] He is well with my soul. -[6121.78 --> 6138.78] Do you feel the world is broken? -[6138.78 --> 6140.78] We do. -[6140.78 --> 6145.78] Do you feel the shadows keep in? -[6145.78 --> 6149.78] We do. -[6149.78 --> 6156.78] Do you know that all the darkness will hide from day through? -[6156.78 --> 6157.78] We do. -[6157.78 --> 6158.78] We do. -[6158.78 --> 6163.78] Do you know that all the darkness will hide from day through? -[6163.78 --> 6164.78] We do. -[6164.78 --> 6166.78] Do you know that all the darkness will hide from day through? -[6166.78 --> 6167.78] We do. -[6167.78 --> 6168.78] We do. -[6168.78 --> 6169.78] The darkness will Javert. -[6169.78 --> 6172.78] Yeah. -[6173.78 --> 6178.78] Does the light so aches on earth yet? -[6178.78 --> 6181.78] We do cause he's свид quiëtenCH in the Bizimk. -[6181.78 --> 6182.78] Do he mão d'rduque romp Deus me teus peatod? -[6182.78 --> 6186.78] Yes. -[6186.78 --> 6195.82] It's the glory of the Lord to be the light of the earth. -[6195.82 --> 6203.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6203.20 --> 6233.18] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6233.20 --> 6263.18] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6263.20 --> 6270.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6270.20 --> 6272.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6272.20 --> 6275.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6275.20 --> 6282.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6282.20 --> 6289.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6289.20 --> 6296.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6296.20 --> 6305.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6305.20 --> 6314.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6314.20 --> 6315.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6315.20 --> 6321.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6321.20 --> 6322.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6322.20 --> 6324.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6324.20 --> 6325.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6325.20 --> 6327.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6327.20 --> 6329.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6329.20 --> 6330.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6330.20 --> 6332.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6332.20 --> 6334.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6334.20 --> 6339.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6339.20 --> 6340.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6340.20 --> 6341.20] Yes. -[6341.20 --> 6342.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6342.20 --> 6345.20] Yes, as I could be by myself. -[6345.20 --> 6348.88] Oh -[6375.20 --> 6405.18] Thank you. -[6405.20 --> 6435.18] Thank you. -[6435.20 --> 6437.20] Thank you. -[6465.20 --> 6467.20] Thank you. -[6495.20 --> 6497.20] Thank you. -[6525.20 --> 6527.20] Thank you. -[6555.20 --> 6557.20] Thank you. -[6557.20 --> 6559.20] Thank you. -[6559.20 --> 6561.20] Thank you. -[6561.20 --> 6563.20] Thank you. -[6563.20 --> 6565.20] Thank you. -[6565.20 --> 6567.20] Thank you. -[6567.20 --> 6569.20] Thank you. -[6569.20 --> 6571.20] Thank you. -[6571.20 --> 6573.20] Thank you. -[6573.20 --> 6581.38] Oh, praise the name of the Lord our God. -[6581.84 --> 6588.38] Oh, praise his name forevermore. -[6588.38 --> 6602.38] For endless days we will sing your praise, O Lord, O Lord our God. -[6602.38 --> 6620.08] We shall return in rose of white, The lazy sun shall pierce the night, -[6620.08 --> 6635.08] And I will rise among the saints, My haste and sins, O Jesus' face. -[6650.08 --> 6679.08] O praise the name of the Lord our God, O praise His name forevermore. -[6680.08 --> 6693.08] For endless days we will sing your praise, O Lord, O Lord our God. -[6693.08 --> 6707.08] O praise the name of the Lord our God, O praise His name forevermore. -[6707.08 --> 6719.08] For endless days we will sing your praise, O Lord, O Lord our God. -[6719.08 --> 6726.08] O Lord, O Lord our God. -[6726.08 --> 6735.08] O Lord, O Lord our God. -[6735.08 --> 6752.08] As you go into this next week, whether you are aware of how God is working in and through you, -[6752.08 --> 6757.52] or if you are not currently aware of how God is working in you and through you, -[6757.82 --> 6762.98] know that He is and that He goes with you. -[6763.56 --> 6766.00] And so receive His blessing. -[6766.00 --> 6770.34] God, go before you to lead you. -[6771.10 --> 6773.26] God, go behind you to protect you. -[6773.94 --> 6775.94] God, go beneath you to support you. -[6776.16 --> 6779.18] God, go beside you to befriend you. -[6779.66 --> 6781.42] Do not be afraid. -[6782.00 --> 6783.92] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[6784.02 --> 6785.54] Do not be afraid. -[6785.54 --> 6790.98] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[6791.98 --> 6792.72] Amen. -[6815.54 --> 6831.98] Lord, bless you. -[6831.98 --> 6835.60] God, keep you. -[6835.60 --> 6840.48] May this day shine upon you. -[6840.48 --> 6843.20] Be gracious to you. -[6843.20 --> 6873.18] Lord, bless you. -[6873.20 --> 6874.20] Lord, bless you. -[6874.20 --> 6877.20] Lord, bless you. -[6877.20 --> 6886.20] May this place for you and give you peace. -[6886.20 --> 6887.20] Amen. -[6887.20 --> 6902.40] Amen, amen, amen. -[6902.40 --> 6916.24] Amen, amen, amen. -[6917.20 --> 6947.18] Amen, amen. -[6947.20 --> 6960.72] Amen, amen, amen. -[6960.72 --> 6974.24] Amen, amen, amen. -[6974.24 --> 6987.76] Amen, amen, amen. -[6987.76 --> 7001.28] Amen, amen, amen. -[7001.28 --> 7014.80] Amen, amen. -[7014.80 --> 7016.80] Amen. -[7044.80 --> 7058.32] Amen, amen, amen. -[7058.32 --> 7071.84] Amen, amen, amen. -[7071.84 --> 7083.84] Amen, amen, amen. -[7083.84 --> 7097.36] Amen, amen, amen. -[7097.36 --> 7099.36] Amen, amen, amen. -[7099.36 --> 7111.38] Amen, amen, amen. -[7129.36 --> 7159.34] Amen, amen. -[7159.36 --> 7189.34] Amen, amen. -[7189.36 --> 7219.34] Amen, amen. -[7219.36 --> 7249.34] Amen, amen. -[7249.36 --> 7279.34] Amen, amen. -[7279.36 --> 7309.34] Amen, amen. -[7309.36 --> 7311.36] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 14, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 14, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 1bb0a1355c3f706b59fd328e9a5d51d2d1d424c1..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 14, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,107 +0,0 @@ -• Singing of love for God -• Longing for holiness, faithfulness, and brokenness -• Offering heart, mind, and will to God's control -• Worship and praise to God's greatness and majesty -• Acknowledgement of God's power and presence in all things -• Prayer of confession and acknowledgment of God's love and forgiveness -• Praise and worship songs (repeated phrases: "How great is our God", "Name above all names", "Worthy of all praise") -• Personal reflection on faith, temptation, and trust in Christ -• Praise and thanksgiving for Christ's love and promise to hold fast through life's challenges -• The Savior's love holds fast -• Romans 6: Freedom from sin, eternal life through Christ Jesus -• Death and sin will be no more on the day of resurrection -• The Lord is holy, worthy of praise -• The Lamb who was saved is worthy to be praised -• Christ alone is hope in life and death -• Christ's love keeps us to the end -• Christ as hope in life and death -• Worship giving for the church budget and Union Gospel Mission -• Overview of Union Gospel Mission's history, mission, and services -• Reading from Hebrews 13:16 to encourage generosity -• Announcement of next week's offering for various causes -• Discussion of God's servant king and call to follow him -• Worship songs and reflections on serving and sacrifice -• Discussion about a Bible story related to David and Goliath -• Transition to the children's blessing and worship time -• Introduction of Dick, a council member, leading prayer and giving thanks -• Prayer requests for various groups including staff, teachers, students, parents, and community members -• Specific prayer points include: - + Gratitude for rest and summer activities - + Support for those traveling or preparing for school - + Help for the homeless in Langley - + Wisdom and guidance for leaders in Ottawa - + Understanding of God's control and sovereignty -• Praying for global issues and strife in various countries, including Russia, Ukraine, and Afghanistan -• Asking God to watch over those who could not attend the gathering and help them feel wanted, needed, and blessed -• Praising God for being with those physically unable to attend due to accidents or operations -• Remembering loved ones no longer present and missing their presence -• Praying for family members, including siblings, spouses, children, and grandchildren -• Asking God to bless the congregation today and throughout the week -• The speaker reflects on the importance of appreciating traditions and being mindful of money and wealth. -• The parable of the rich man and Lazarus is discussed, with a focus on its relevance to thinking about street people and poverty. -• Two parables in Luke 16 are mentioned, including one previously preached by the speaker. -• Money and riches are highlighted as significant themes in both parables. -• The importance of not serving two masters (God and money) is emphasized. -• The Pharisee discusses Jesus' parable about money and wealth. -• The parable tells the story of a rich man who lived in luxury, while a beggar named Lazarus suffered outside his gate. -• After death, Lazarus was carried to Abraham's side, but the rich man ended up in torment in Hades. -• The parable highlights that money cannot buy eternal life or guarantee a place in heaven. -• Abraham is asked by a person in agony to send Lazarus to comfort him -• Abraham replies that the person received good things in life while Lazarus received bad things, but now Lazarus is comforted and the person is in agony -• Abraham notes that there is a great chasm between them and the person cannot be comforted by Lazarus -• The person begs Abraham to send Lazarus to his family so they can warn his brothers -• Abraham replies that his brothers have Moses and the prophets, and if someone from the dead goes to them, they will listen -• Discussion about spiritual matters and life after death -• Abraham's words to the people to listen to Moses and the prophets -• The importance of questioning and understanding one's beliefs -• Parable discussed with an unchurched person -• Questions about heaven, hell, and how one lives their life impacting the next -• Importance of living a good life for the next stage of existence -• The parable of Lazarus and the rich man discusses the themes of wealth, poverty, and morality -• Jesus' focus is not on the amount of money one has, but how it is acquired and used -• The story highlights the danger of a large gap between the rich and the poor -• Laziness is not the reason for poverty in this parable; Lazarus was disabled due to illness -• The passage emphasizes the importance of compassion, mercy, and caring for those in need -• The parable of Lazarus and the rich man highlights a huge contrast between two men in this life and the afterlife. -• God has not overlooked either of them, as seen in their respective treatment by angels after death. -• A description of what happens to those who die, including accounts from personal experiences. -• Discussion of the nature of heaven and hell, and how some people may be aware of others' good fortune but unable to join them. -• Examination of a person's reaction when they begin to suffer, leading to recognition of others who also suffer. -• Lazarus's fate and Abraham's comfort -• Demands for relief from the heat -• The contrast between Lazarus's life and death -• Jesus' teachings on heaven and hell -• The chasm between the living and the dead -• A test for the one to come is a central theme in life -• No going back after making choices -• There is no plan B, second chances are not available -• The concept of an appeal court or crossing over to the other side does not exist -• We should be aware of and accept the truth about the afterlife -• Abraham is visited by a rich man who has family members still living and asks that Lazarus be sent back to warn them -• The rich man expresses regret for his past choices and requests that his family be given foresight so they can avoid a similar fate -• Discussion of a parable from the Bible -• Reference to Moses and the prophets in relation to convincing people of faith -• Observations on modern society's preference for evidence-based information over faith -• Explanation that even if someone came back from the dead, it would not convince spiritual skeptics -• Description of how Jesus' resurrection is what jump-started the New Testament church among those who were already seeking God -• Reflections on whether people hunger for God and are open to his word -• The importance of the message of Jesus and his resurrection -• The role of the church in sustaining itself through ups and downs over 20 centuries -• Sharing the word of God with family members to help them get to heaven -• Teaching children about scriptures and making the story of God come alive for them -• The impact of stories like those shared on people's lives, such as Dr. Albert Schweitzer -• Helping the poor and being aware of who is in need among us today -• The spiritual poverty that exists in many people despite material wealth -• The importance of faith and knowing God in life and after death -• Whether how we live affects our future with God -• Distinguishing between those who are wealthy but spiritually empty and those whose hearts have been softened by God's love -• The role of Jesus Christ as the way to eternal life and the means by which we can serve others -• Prayer for help, guidance, and spiritual enrichment -• Worship service with singing and prayer -• Leader's message about Jesus' call to come to him -• Importance of knowing Christ and walking with Him -• Assurance of eternal life through faith in Jesus -• Benediction with prayer for God's blessings and peace -• Belonging to God with body and soul -• In life and in death, belonging to God (the Lord) -• Recognizing that one is not their own, but belongs to Christ \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 14, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 14, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 69087d3b19b4b530361f78040456cfe0e45e246b..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 14, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2057 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 5.10] I can sing of your life forever -[5.10 --> 7.68] I can sing of your love forever -[7.68 --> 12.20] I can sing of your love forever -[12.20 --> 17.40] I can sing of your love forever -[17.40 --> 25.26] I will sing of your love forever -[25.26 --> 28.50] Lift my hands and raise a calling name -[28.50 --> 33.78] I will sing of your love forever -[33.78 --> 39.78] I will sing of your love -[39.78 --> 44.66] I will sing of your love -[44.66 --> 46.66] Oh -[46.66 --> 60.10] I will sing of your love forever -[60.10 --> 66.82] I will sing of your love forever -[66.82 --> 72.80] I will sing of your love forever -[72.80 --> 78.86] I will sing of your love forever -[78.86 --> 84.94] I will sing of your love forever -[102.80 --> 132.78] I will sing of your love forever -[132.80 --> 138.86] I will sing of your love forever -[138.86 --> 150.86] Holiness, holiness is what I long for -[150.86 --> 155.60] Holiness is what I need -[155.60 --> 165.60] Holiness, holiness is what you want from me -[165.60 --> 177.60] Holiness, holiness is what I long for -[177.60 --> 193.66] Holiness, holiness is what you want from me -[193.66 --> 199.72] So take my heart -[199.72 --> 203.66] Take my mind -[203.66 --> 207.66] Take my mind -[207.66 --> 209.66] Just for me -[209.66 --> 213.66] Take my will -[213.66 --> 215.66] Take my will -[215.66 --> 217.66] Take my will -[217.66 --> 219.66] Give my will -[219.66 --> 219.72] To yours -[219.72 --> 221.66] To yours -[221.66 --> 223.66] Oh Lord -[223.66 --> 225.66] To yours -[225.66 --> 227.66] To yours -[227.66 --> 229.66] Oh Lord -[229.66 --> 231.66] Oh Lord -[231.66 --> 243.66] Faithfulness, holiness is what I long for -[243.66 --> 245.66] Faithfulness, holiness is what I long for -[245.66 --> 249.66] Faithfulness is what I need -[249.66 --> 251.66] Faithfulness is what I need -[251.66 --> 253.66] Faithfulness is what I need -[253.66 --> 257.66] Faithfulness is what I need -[257.66 --> 263.66] Faithfulness, faithfulness is what you want from me -[263.66 --> 266.66] Faith fashion is what I need -[266.66 --> 270.66] Faithfulness is what you want from me -[270.66 --> 273.66] Launch my heart -[273.66 --> 277.66] Take my heart -[277.66 --> 279.66] Inform rimANT -[279.66 --> 292.66] Take my mind -[292.66 --> 300.70] To yours, to yours, my Lord -[300.70 --> 307.12] So take my heart for me -[307.12 --> 313.84] And take my mind for me -[313.84 --> 320.92] And take my will for me -[320.92 --> 328.10] To yours, to yours, my Lord -[328.10 --> 334.62] To yours, to yours, my Lord -[334.62 --> 344.88] Brokenness, brokenness -[344.88 --> 347.74] Is what I long for -[347.74 --> 354.48] Brokenness is what I need -[354.48 --> 360.98] Brokenness, brokenness -[360.98 --> 365.74] Is what you want from me -[365.74 --> 374.48] What you want from me -[374.48 --> 380.48] It's what I want -[380.48 --> 382.22] What you want from me -[382.22 --> 399.22] What you want from me -[399.22 --> 429.20] Thank you. -[429.22 --> 459.20] Thank you. -[459.22 --> 489.20] Thank you. -[489.22 --> 519.20] Thank you. -[519.22 --> 549.20] Thank you. -[549.22 --> 579.20] Thank you. -[579.20 --> 581.20] Thank you. -[609.20 --> 611.20] Thank you. -[611.20 --> 613.20] Thank you. -[613.20 --> 615.20] Thank you. -[615.20 --> 617.20] Thank you. -[617.20 --> 619.20] Thank you. -[619.20 --> 621.20] Thank you. -[621.20 --> 623.20] Thank you. -[623.20 --> 625.20] Thank you. -[625.20 --> 627.20] Thank you. -[627.20 --> 629.20] Thank you. -[629.20 --> 631.20] Thank you. -[631.20 --> 633.20] Thank you. -[633.20 --> 635.20] Thank you. -[663.20 --> 665.20] Thank you. -[665.20 --> 667.20] Thank you. -[667.20 --> 673.20] Thank you. -[673.20 --> 675.20] Thank you. -[675.20 --> 677.20] Thank you. -[677.20 --> 679.20] Thank you. -[679.20 --> 681.20] Thank you. -[681.20 --> 687.60] worship him this morning, which we God's people say, amen. I don't remember. Do we greet each -[687.60 --> 694.32] other first? We haven't been. Well, consider yourself greeted by each other. Let's worship -[694.32 --> 704.10] the Lord. Yeah. Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 16. Lord, you alone are my -[704.10 --> 712.46] portion and my cup. You make my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant -[712.46 --> 720.52] places. Surely I have a delightful inheritance. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices. -[720.52 --> 728.20] My body also will rest secure because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, -[728.20 --> 736.44] nor will you let your faithful one see decay. You will make known to me the path of life. -[737.10 --> 743.32] You will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. -[758.20 --> 788.18] The splendor of the King, clothed in majesty, let all the earth rejoice. All the earth rejoice. -[788.18 --> 804.18] He wraps himself in light. And darkness tries to hide. And trembles at his voice. -[804.18 --> 818.16] Trembles at his voice. How great is our God. Sing with me how great is our God. -[818.18 --> 843.18] And all will see how great, how great is our God. And age to age he stands. And time is in his hands. -[843.18 --> 845.18] You will find his voice. How great is our God. -[845.18 --> 854.18] Beginning and the end. Beginning and the end. Beginning and the end. The God-red three in one. -[854.18 --> 860.72] Father, Spirit, Son -[860.72 --> 863.72] The Lion and the Lamb -[863.72 --> 867.62] The Lion and the Lamb -[867.62 --> 872.74] How great is our God -[872.74 --> 878.60] Sing with me how great is our God -[878.60 --> 882.38] And all will see how great -[882.38 --> 889.76] How great is our God -[889.76 --> 896.38] Name above all names -[897.28 --> 902.38] Worthy of all praise -[902.38 --> 905.38] My heart will sing -[905.38 --> 911.38] How great is our God -[912.38 --> 919.76] Name above all names -[919.76 --> 924.38] Worthy of all praise -[924.38 --> 927.62] My heart will sing -[927.62 --> 931.76] How great is our God -[931.76 --> 941.14] How great is our God -[941.14 --> 947.14] Sing with me how great is our God -[947.14 --> 951.08] And all will see how great -[951.08 --> 958.46] How great is our God -[958.46 --> 977.84] All my days -[977.84 --> 985.22] All my days I will sing this song -[985.22 --> 992.60] Give my praise -[992.60 --> 993.98] And all my days I will sing -[993.98 --> 999.98] For in my helplessness -[999.98 --> 1003.36] You heard my cry -[1003.36 --> 1006.74] And waves of mercy -[1006.74 --> 1010.74] And waves of mercy pour down on my heart -[1010.74 --> 1012.12] I will sing -[1012.12 --> 1018.12] I will sing of the blood that never fails -[1018.12 --> 1020.50] Of my Redeemer -[1020.50 --> 1021.50] Of my Redeemer -[1021.50 --> 1024.50] I will sing -[1024.50 --> 1029.50] Of the blood that never fails -[1029.50 --> 1032.50] Of sins forgiven -[1032.50 --> 1037.50] Of conscience glanced -[1037.50 --> 1038.88] Of death -[1038.88 --> 1039.88] Of death defeated -[1039.88 --> 1044.88] And life without end -[1044.88 --> 1046.26] Of death -[1046.26 --> 1048.26] Beautiful Savior -[1048.26 --> 1050.26] Beautiful Savior -[1050.26 --> 1052.26] Wonderful Counselor -[1052.26 --> 1057.76] Amazing -[1058.96 --> 1059.26] If you're the way -[1059.26 --> 1059.44] The way -[1059.44 --> 1059.78] The truth -[1059.78 --> 1060.82] The life -[1060.82 --> 1061.20] Of truth -[1061.20 --> 1061.24] The love -[1061.24 --> 1061.92] ume -[1061.92 --> 1063.82] Star of the morning -[1063.82 --> 1065.66] In -[1065.66 --> 1066.88] glorious in hol -[1066.88 --> 1068.06] In -[1068.06 --> 1070.02] holiness -[1070.44 --> 1072.36] You're the risen one -[1072.36 --> 1073.48] Heaven's champion -[1073.48 --> 1076.12] And you reign -[1076.12 --> 1078.48] You reign -[1078.48 --> 1080.42] Over all -[1080.42 --> 1095.86] I long to be where the praise is never ending -[1095.86 --> 1103.96] Good to dwell where the glory never fades -[1103.96 --> 1111.98] Where countless worshippers will share one song -[1111.98 --> 1119.14] And Christ of worthy will honor the Lamb -[1119.14 --> 1127.96] Beautiful Savior, Wonderful Counselor -[1128.48 --> 1132.28] Clothed in majesty, Lord of history -[1132.28 --> 1136.48] You're the way, the truth, the life -[1136.48 --> 1139.60] Star of the morning -[1139.60 --> 1144.00] Glorious in holiness -[1144.00 --> 1148.76] You're the risen one, heaven's champion -[1148.76 --> 1156.52] And you reign, you reign over all -[1156.52 --> 1162.08] Please pray with me -[1162.08 --> 1169.72] Father, we come to you to confess our failures and sins to you this morning. -[1170.42 --> 1177.10] We know that we do not deserve your grace and goodness, yet you love us despite our shortcomings. -[1177.10 --> 1180.90] You meet us where we're at again and again. -[1181.80 --> 1189.84] Lord, we pray that as our faith fails, when temptation prevails, and when we feel like we can't hold on to you any longer, -[1190.36 --> 1193.30] that you would continue to hold us fast. -[1193.30 --> 1196.88] Thank you for your promise to never let us go. -[1197.28 --> 1198.68] Thank you for your forgiveness. -[1199.64 --> 1200.90] We love you, Lord Jesus. -[1201.90 --> 1202.26] Amen. -[1202.26 --> 1203.00] Amen. -[1203.00 --> 1205.20] Amen. -[1221.16 --> 1222.60] Amen. -[1222.60 --> 1236.14] When I fear my faith will fail, Christ will hold me fast. -[1236.14 --> 1245.20] When the tempter would prevail, Christ will hold me fast. -[1245.20 --> 1254.00] I could never keep my hold through life's faithful path. -[1254.00 --> 1263.08] For my love is often cold, He must hold me fast. -[1265.04 --> 1272.70] He will hold me fast, He will hold me fast. -[1272.70 --> 1282.94] For my Savior loves me so, He will hold me fast. -[1290.88 --> 1299.74] Those He saves are His delight, Christ will hold me fast. -[1299.74 --> 1308.48] Precious in His holy sight, He will hold me fast. -[1308.90 --> 1317.24] He'll not let my soul be lost, His promises shall last. -[1317.64 --> 1325.32] But by Him at such a cost, He will hold me fast. -[1325.32 --> 1331.76] He will hold me fast. -[1331.76 --> 1335.44] He will hold me fast. -[1335.44 --> 1344.66] For my Savior loves me so, He will hold me fast. -[1344.66 --> 1363.02] For my life He bled and died, Christ will hold me fast. -[1363.02 --> 1371.76] Just as has been satisfied, He will hold me fast. -[1371.76 --> 1376.44] Grace will live to end his time. -[1376.44 --> 1380.16] He will hold me fast. -[1380.16 --> 1384.66] Till our faith is turned to sight. -[1384.66 --> 1390.26] When He comes at last. -[1390.26 --> 1394.34] He will hold me fast. -[1394.34 --> 1395.34] He will hold me fast. -[1395.34 --> 1398.34] He will hold me fast. -[1398.34 --> 1406.34] For my Savior loves me so, He will hold me fast. -[1406.34 --> 1413.34] He will hold me fast. -[1413.34 --> 1427.34] For my Savior loves me so, He will hold me fast. -[1427.34 --> 1428.58] From Romans 6. -[1428.58 --> 1436.10] But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the benefit you -[1436.10 --> 1440.48] reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. -[1440.48 --> 1447.48] For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. -[1447.48 --> 1477.48] -[1477.48 --> 1486.18] To look upon the one who bled to save me -[1486.18 --> 1492.66] And walk with him for all eternity -[1492.66 --> 1504.84] There will be a day when all will bow before him -[1504.84 --> 1511.84] There will be a day when death will be no more -[1512.36 --> 1520.84] Standing face to face with he who died and rose again -[1521.40 --> 1527.84] Holy, holy is the Lord -[1527.84 --> 1538.16] Every prayer we pray in desperation -[1538.16 --> 1545.84] The songs of faith we sang through doubt and fear -[1545.84 --> 1553.84] In the end we'll see that it was worth it -[1553.84 --> 1560.84] When he returns to wipe away our tears -[1560.84 --> 1571.84] There will be a day when all will bow before him -[1571.84 --> 1578.84] There will be a day when death will be no more -[1578.84 --> 1588.16] Standing face to face with him who died and rose again -[1588.16 --> 1594.84] Holy, holy is the Lord -[1594.84 --> 1605.08] And on that day we join the resurrection -[1605.08 --> 1612.44] And stand beside the heroes of the pain -[1612.44 --> 1619.44] And with one voice a thousand generations -[1619.44 --> 1626.44] Sing, worthy is the Lamb who was saved -[1626.44 --> 1633.44] And on that day we join the resurrection -[1633.44 --> 1640.44] As stand beside the heroes of the pain -[1640.44 --> 1648.44] And with one voice a thousand generations -[1648.44 --> 1655.44] Sing, worthy is the Lamb who was saved -[1655.44 --> 1662.44] For the Lord's name, worthy is the Lamb who was saved -[1662.44 --> 1664.44] And on that day we join the Lord -[1664.44 --> 1665.44] And on that day we join the Lord -[1665.44 --> 1669.44] There will be a day when all will bow before him -[1669.44 --> 1670.44] There will be a day when death will be no more -[1670.44 --> 1685.44] Standing face to face with him who died and rose again -[1685.44 --> 1690.44] Holy, holy is the Lord -[1690.44 --> 1695.44] Holy, holy is the Lord -[1695.44 --> 1697.44] Will it be today -[1697.44 --> 1701.44] We shout the hymn of heaven -[1701.44 --> 1705.44] With angels and the saints -[1705.44 --> 1709.44] We raise a mighty Lord -[1709.44 --> 1712.44] Glory to our God -[1712.44 --> 1717.44] Who gave us life beyond their name -[1717.44 --> 1724.44] Holy, holy is the Lord -[1724.44 --> 1731.44] Holy, holy is the Lord -[1731.44 --> 1738.44] Holy, holy is the Lord -[1738.44 --> 1741.44] Vocal noch to어나. -[1741.44 --> 1747.44] We bloom low -[1747.44 --> 1748.08] Song byürü -[1748.44 --> 1751.08] Please sing, 온 -[1751.08 --> 1760.68] Hilary, -[1761.44 --> 1766.30] Are you the Lord -[1766.30 --> 1779.08] What is our hope in life and death? -[1779.08 --> 1783.08] Christ alone, Christ alone. -[1784.00 --> 1788.16] What is our only confidence? -[1789.74 --> 1794.18] That our souls to him belong. -[1794.18 --> 1799.56] Who holds our days within his hand? -[1799.98 --> 1804.12] Who comes apart from his command? -[1804.12 --> 1810.06] And what will keep us to the end? -[1810.52 --> 1817.02] The love of Christ in which we stand. -[1817.02 --> 1823.18] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[1824.08 --> 1828.46] Our hope springs eternal. -[1829.24 --> 1833.64] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[1834.48 --> 1838.22] Now and ever we confess. -[1838.66 --> 1842.02] Christ our hope in life and death. -[1842.02 --> 1855.34] What truth can calm the child of soul? -[1855.84 --> 1857.74] God is good. -[1858.46 --> 1860.26] God is good. -[1860.64 --> 1865.40] Where is his grace and goodness known? -[1865.40 --> 1870.68] In our great Redeemer's blood. -[1871.12 --> 1875.34] Who holds our faith when fears arise? -[1876.16 --> 1881.10] Who stands above the stormy child? -[1881.60 --> 1886.52] Who sends the waves that bring us young? -[1886.52 --> 1892.38] And to the shore of the rock of Christ. -[1892.38 --> 1899.22] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[1900.08 --> 1904.32] Our hope springs eternal. -[1904.32 --> 1909.34] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[1909.34 --> 1913.94] Now and ever we confess. -[1914.44 --> 1919.48] Christ our hope in life and death. -[1919.48 --> 1924.48] Christ our hope in life and death. -[1924.48 --> 1925.48] Amen. -[1925.48 --> 1931.22] Unto the grave what will we sing? -[1931.78 --> 1936.40] Christ he lives, Christ he lives. -[1936.74 --> 1941.98] And what reward will heaven bring? -[1941.98 --> 1946.94] Everlasting life with him. -[1947.38 --> 1952.22] Then we will rise to meet the Lord. -[1952.62 --> 1956.98] Then sin and death will be destroyed. -[1957.78 --> 1962.66] And we will feast in endless joy. -[1962.66 --> 1968.86] When Christ is ours forevermore. -[1968.86 --> 1984.16] Christ our hope in life and death. -[1984.16 --> 1985.38] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[1985.38 --> 1989.38] Now and ever we confess. -[1990.10 --> 1994.22] Christ our hope in life and death. -[1994.22 --> 1999.22] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[1999.22 --> 2000.22] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[2000.22 --> 2004.22] Our hope springs eternal. -[2004.22 --> 2009.22] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[2009.22 --> 2013.46] Now and ever we confess. -[2013.46 --> 2017.78] Christ our hope in life and death. -[2017.78 --> 2021.50] Now and ever we confess. -[2021.50 --> 2026.50] Christ our hope in life and death. -[2026.50 --> 2029.54] You may have a seat. -[2051.50 --> 2071.68] We will continue our worship with the giving of our gifts. -[2072.26 --> 2077.78] First of all to the budget which covers the administration of the church and its ministries. -[2077.78 --> 2082.78] And the special offering is for Union Gospel Mission. -[2082.78 --> 2088.78] Union Gospel Mission has a rich 80 year history of feeding hope and changing lives. -[2088.78 --> 2095.78] They have a deep determination to transform communities by demonstrating the love of Christ. -[2095.78 --> 2096.78] Christ. -[2096.78 --> 2102.78] They offer care in Vancouver's downtown east side and across Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. -[2102.78 --> 2113.78] They have eight locations including drop-in centers, shelters, live-in recovery programs, social enterprise stores, and more. -[2113.78 --> 2114.78] Their vision. -[2114.78 --> 2115.78] Their vision. -[2115.78 --> 2117.78] Demonstrating the love of Christ. -[2117.78 --> 2128.78] Union Gospel Mission is determined to transform communities by overcoming poverty, homelessness, and addiction one life at a time. -[2128.78 --> 2149.78] Their continuum of care includes a comprehensive range of programs such as street level outreach programs, meals, shelter and clothing, alcohol and drug recovery, career development services, social and affordable housing, children and family services. -[2149.78 --> 2154.78] And do not forget to do good and to share with others. -[2154.78 --> 2157.78] For with such sacrifices God is pleased. -[2157.78 --> 2160.78] Hebrews 13 verse 16. -[2160.78 --> 2162.78] Please give generously. -[2162.78 --> 2170.78] Next week's offering is for the budget and world renew, refugee sponsorship and resettlement. -[2170.78 --> 2171.78] Earth tonight, which means since the EU largest. -[2171.78 --> 2172.78] Sometimes in their government is superior to see its spread as well. -[2172.78 --> 2173.78] Number of 찾ーム, Beijing changes them on to norms. -[2173.78 --> 2175.78] Nor of whom authorities kiss your imagination come to mind. -[2175.78 --> 2178.78] In fact, many days before, camping change to the Earth woman now. -[2178.78 --> 2180.78] Go to Zion too. -[2180.78 --> 2182.38] Withreici Hπά's Union, India is caring. -[2182.38 --> 2183.78] We also see structure which Herrn Thirst. -[2183.78 --> 2185.78] Просто from around lamentable daguerre e into evacuation. -[2185.78 --> 2187.78] We move on to the work of Jes女 child. -[2187.78 --> 2188.78] Subscribe to Li True Calunders. -[2188.78 --> 2189.78] This occasion is a positive thing. -[2189.78 --> 2191.78] We often know how to driveisseling back to почти before peace 7 months. -[2191.78 --> 2192.78] We can see things on display, Rosa Bar sost tomorrow, -[2192.78 --> 2193.78] and Marpostrepresented progressive ayahu propарищ Shumannс per after tonight, -[2193.78 --> 2194.78] six months. -[2194.78 --> 2195.78] Thank you so much. -[2195.78 --> 2196.78] Good morning. -[2196.78 --> 2207.12] From heaven you came, helpless babe. -[2208.38 --> 2214.62] Entered our world, your glory failed. -[2214.62 --> 2219.74] Not to be served, but to serve. -[2219.74 --> 2228.38] And give your life that we might live. -[2228.66 --> 2235.18] This is our God, the servant king. -[2235.50 --> 2241.94] He calls us now to follow him. -[2241.94 --> 2247.78] To bring our lives as a daily offering. -[2247.78 --> 2255.66] A worship to the servant king. -[2257.02 --> 2263.60] There in the garden of tears. -[2263.84 --> 2269.70] My heavy load he chose to bear. -[2269.70 --> 2275.54] His heart with sorrow was torn. -[2275.54 --> 2283.42] Yet not my will, but yours he said. -[2283.42 --> 2291.30] This is our God, the servant king. -[2291.30 --> 2297.64] He calls us now to follow him. -[2297.64 --> 2305.52] To bring our lives as a daily offering. -[2305.52 --> 2310.52] Of worship to the servant king. -[2310.52 --> 2320.40] Come see his hands and his feet. -[2320.40 --> 2326.40] The scars that speak of sacrifice. -[2326.40 --> 2334.28] And set flung stars into space. -[2334.28 --> 2339.28] To cruel nails surrender. -[2339.28 --> 2341.16] And set flung stars into space. -[2341.16 --> 2347.16] This is our God, the servant king. -[2347.16 --> 2349.16] The servant king. -[2349.16 --> 2355.16] He calls us now to follow him. -[2355.16 --> 2363.04] To bring our lives as a daily offering. -[2363.04 --> 2369.04] Of worship to the servant king. -[2369.04 --> 2370.92] The servant king. -[2370.92 --> 2376.92] So let us learn how to serve. -[2376.92 --> 2383.92] And in our lives enthroned with. -[2383.92 --> 2387.92] Each other's needs to prefer. -[2387.92 --> 2391.80] For it is Christ for serving. -[2391.80 --> 2395.80] For it is Christ for serving. -[2395.80 --> 2397.80] For it is Christ for serving. -[2397.80 --> 2402.80] This is our God, the servant king. -[2402.80 --> 2404.80] The servant king. -[2404.80 --> 2409.80] He calls us now to follow him. -[2409.80 --> 2418.68] To bring our lives as a daily offering. -[2418.68 --> 2425.68] Of worship to the servant king. -[2425.68 --> 2438.32] The servant king. -[2439.80 --> 2461.68] To bring our lives as a daily offering. -[2461.68 --> 2467.68] I'm going to call up all the three and four and five year olds. -[2467.68 --> 2468.86] Oh boy, the crowds. -[2469.56 --> 2471.62] Hey, I got, oh, right there. -[2472.04 --> 2473.28] I'll sit on the table then. -[2475.72 --> 2477.18] Are you guys having a good summer? -[2477.96 --> 2479.50] Yeah, are you getting too hot? -[2480.22 --> 2482.00] Oaky, you got earrings? -[2482.50 --> 2483.50] There's a couple more kids. -[2485.42 --> 2486.54] Okay, not a huge group today, -[2486.64 --> 2488.60] but I know today you guys are learning -[2488.60 --> 2491.60] about a crazy story in the Bible -[2491.60 --> 2494.62] about a certain young boy -[2494.62 --> 2496.28] who was going to become a king -[2496.28 --> 2501.30] and a certain nasty giant of a man. -[2501.88 --> 2503.14] Do you know what story that is? -[2504.16 --> 2505.04] What do you think? -[2505.60 --> 2507.00] Yeah, David and Goliath. -[2507.06 --> 2508.28] I think that's on the list today. -[2508.70 --> 2510.98] So, I know your teacher's ready to go, -[2511.08 --> 2512.48] so shall we do the children's blessing -[2512.48 --> 2514.54] and then you guys can go off to children's worship time. -[2515.00 --> 2516.22] All right, let's stand together. -[2519.60 --> 2520.46] You ready, guys? -[2521.46 --> 2523.38] The Lord be with you. -[2524.24 --> 2526.16] All right. -[2526.28 --> 2527.46] After Sunday school. -[2528.00 --> 2530.16] After Sunday school. -[2530.22 --> 2532.44] ... -[2534.44 --> 2537.30] ... -[2538.66 --> 2540.36] ... -[2540.36 --> 2542.66] ... -[2542.66 --> 2546.74] ... -[2548.82 --> 2551.58] ... -[2551.58 --> 2558.38] hi my name is Dick -[2558.38 --> 2560.16] I am on council here -[2560.16 --> 2563.38] and we are going to spend some time -[2563.38 --> 2564.44] going to our God in prayer -[2564.44 --> 2565.76] please join me -[2565.76 --> 2569.00] Father in heaven Lord -[2569.00 --> 2569.74] thank you -[2569.74 --> 2572.34] that we are allowed to come here -[2572.34 --> 2574.84] even if it's -[2574.84 --> 2576.76] live stream or -[2576.76 --> 2578.52] actually in person -[2578.52 --> 2580.84] thank you Lord that you -[2580.84 --> 2582.94] look after us each and every day -[2582.94 --> 2585.50] thank you you give us -[2585.50 --> 2587.20] not so much -[2587.20 --> 2589.10] what we want but what we need -[2589.10 --> 2591.22] Father we thank you -[2591.22 --> 2592.86] for this summer we thank you for the -[2592.86 --> 2594.62] times of rest we could have had or -[2594.62 --> 2596.04] maybe it's coming up still -[2596.04 --> 2598.84] we pray Lord for all the people traveling -[2598.84 --> 2600.36] including some of our staff -[2600.36 --> 2603.18] Lord also -[2603.18 --> 2604.78] as we prepare again for -[2604.78 --> 2606.64] school -[2606.64 --> 2608.60] imagine that word school -[2608.60 --> 2610.92] Lord we pray for each teacher -[2610.92 --> 2611.88] as they prepare -[2611.88 --> 2613.30] we pray for each student -[2613.30 --> 2616.32] and sometimes that may mean -[2616.32 --> 2617.12] going to college -[2617.12 --> 2618.44] going off and -[2618.44 --> 2621.00] getting out of the house -[2621.00 --> 2622.40] which -[2622.40 --> 2624.56] may be a challenge as well -[2624.56 --> 2626.46] Lord we pray for the parents -[2626.46 --> 2627.48] we pray for -[2627.48 --> 2629.64] each one of us -[2629.64 --> 2631.10] Lord in our different roles -[2631.10 --> 2632.74] whether it's here or -[2632.74 --> 2634.70] working outside -[2634.70 --> 2636.14] or in the office -[2636.14 --> 2636.62] or -[2636.62 --> 2639.26] Lord you -[2639.26 --> 2640.94] you've managed to watch -[2640.94 --> 2642.42] each and every one of us -[2642.42 --> 2644.32] at each and every moment -[2644.32 --> 2645.18] and that's just -[2645.18 --> 2646.96] unfathomable for us -[2646.96 --> 2648.48] so we thank you -[2648.48 --> 2651.54] Lord we pray for -[2651.54 --> 2652.46] our -[2652.46 --> 2654.40] city Langley -[2654.40 --> 2656.44] Lord we pray for -[2656.44 --> 2657.24] the homeless -[2657.24 --> 2657.92] because -[2657.92 --> 2660.90] it's just -[2660.90 --> 2662.46] so easy to drive by -[2662.46 --> 2662.74] and -[2662.74 --> 2663.60] and watch -[2663.60 --> 2663.90] or -[2663.90 --> 2666.22] but Lord -[2666.22 --> 2666.64] there is -[2666.64 --> 2667.86] such a huge challenge -[2667.86 --> 2668.72] for some of these people -[2668.72 --> 2670.02] or even all of these people -[2670.02 --> 2671.28] and there's more -[2671.28 --> 2671.62] and more -[2671.62 --> 2672.04] and more -[2672.04 --> 2674.46] Lord help us -[2674.46 --> 2675.08] to do something -[2675.08 --> 2675.56] as a -[2675.56 --> 2676.26] as a province -[2676.26 --> 2677.08] or as a city -[2677.08 --> 2679.82] and whatever that may be -[2679.82 --> 2680.12] Lord -[2680.12 --> 2682.34] Lord we pray for -[2682.34 --> 2683.02] our provinces -[2683.02 --> 2684.84] our leaders -[2684.84 --> 2687.12] our leaders -[2687.12 --> 2687.62] in Ottawa -[2687.62 --> 2688.04] Lord -[2688.04 --> 2691.26] we pray -[2691.26 --> 2692.16] will you give them wisdom -[2692.16 --> 2693.28] will you open their eyes -[2693.28 --> 2694.66] will you help them to understand -[2694.66 --> 2696.76] you are in control -[2696.76 --> 2697.92] the only reason -[2697.92 --> 2698.98] they have their jobs -[2698.98 --> 2700.76] is because you let them -[2700.76 --> 2702.78] for helping that -[2702.78 --> 2703.56] to sink in -[2703.56 --> 2706.00] Lord we pray for the bigger world -[2706.00 --> 2707.04] there's so much strife -[2707.04 --> 2707.64] everywhere -[2707.64 --> 2709.70] Lord we think of Russia -[2709.70 --> 2710.36] and Ukraine -[2710.36 --> 2712.56] we think of Afghanistan -[2712.56 --> 2715.50] we think of other areas -[2715.50 --> 2715.78] Lord -[2715.78 --> 2717.32] maybe that's not in the news -[2717.32 --> 2718.02] but there's -[2718.02 --> 2719.02] just as much strife -[2719.02 --> 2719.64] just as well -[2719.64 --> 2723.68] Lord we ask you to be with us today -[2723.68 --> 2724.82] this morning -[2724.82 --> 2726.36] as we listen to your word -[2726.36 --> 2729.06] Lord we pray also -[2729.06 --> 2729.52] that -[2729.52 --> 2730.70] the people who -[2730.70 --> 2731.80] couldn't join us -[2731.80 --> 2734.98] you'll watch over them -[2734.98 --> 2735.46] Lord -[2735.46 --> 2735.78] that -[2735.78 --> 2737.06] you -[2737.06 --> 2739.02] help them to -[2739.02 --> 2739.88] feel -[2739.88 --> 2741.06] wanted and needed -[2741.06 --> 2742.50] and blessed -[2742.50 --> 2744.10] and then Lord -[2744.10 --> 2744.80] we think of those -[2744.80 --> 2746.16] who didn't want to be here -[2746.16 --> 2748.26] for whatever reason -[2748.26 --> 2748.52] Lord -[2748.52 --> 2749.28] you know the reason -[2749.28 --> 2751.46] we ask you Lord -[2751.46 --> 2752.42] to help and guide -[2752.42 --> 2755.74] Lord we pray for those -[2755.74 --> 2756.68] who physically -[2756.68 --> 2758.02] aren't able -[2758.02 --> 2760.46] those who are -[2760.46 --> 2761.74] recovering from -[2761.74 --> 2763.40] accidents -[2763.40 --> 2764.20] or -[2764.20 --> 2766.74] operations -[2766.74 --> 2768.42] Lord and we pray also -[2768.42 --> 2768.98] for the -[2768.98 --> 2770.94] people that -[2770.94 --> 2773.10] are no longer -[2773.10 --> 2773.64] with us -[2773.64 --> 2773.88] Lord -[2773.88 --> 2775.08] there's empty spots -[2775.08 --> 2776.28] and probably all of us -[2776.28 --> 2776.58] know -[2776.58 --> 2778.00] of a few -[2778.00 --> 2779.16] Lord -[2779.16 --> 2779.96] and they are missed -[2779.96 --> 2783.20] Lord we pray for -[2783.20 --> 2785.84] the siblings -[2785.84 --> 2786.78] we pray for -[2786.78 --> 2787.48] spouses -[2787.48 --> 2788.62] we pray for the kids -[2788.62 --> 2789.76] we pray for the grandkids -[2789.76 --> 2790.08] Lord -[2790.08 --> 2791.46] Lord we know -[2791.46 --> 2792.38] they're in a better place -[2792.38 --> 2793.56] but it's still not the same -[2793.56 --> 2794.44] without them here -[2794.44 --> 2796.90] Lord you're in charge -[2796.90 --> 2797.78] you're in control -[2797.78 --> 2800.80] so we ask you to bless us -[2800.80 --> 2801.14] today -[2801.14 --> 2802.50] we ask you to bless us -[2802.50 --> 2802.96] this week -[2802.96 --> 2804.52] and as we listen to your word -[2804.52 --> 2804.82] Lord -[2804.82 --> 2806.86] help us not only to listen -[2806.86 --> 2808.56] but to go away from here -[2808.56 --> 2809.50] and do -[2809.50 --> 2812.24] Lord we thank you -[2812.24 --> 2812.94] for the privileges -[2812.94 --> 2813.56] we have -[2813.56 --> 2814.34] where we live -[2814.34 --> 2814.98] how we live -[2814.98 --> 2815.90] most of us -[2815.90 --> 2817.92] we pray will you -[2817.92 --> 2818.96] convict us -[2818.96 --> 2821.58] give us a good day -[2821.58 --> 2822.76] be with Pastor Bill -[2822.76 --> 2823.24] this morning -[2823.24 --> 2824.22] as he brings your word -[2824.22 --> 2825.90] thank you in Jesus name -[2825.90 --> 2826.32] Amen -[2826.32 --> 2840.78] thank you -[2840.78 --> 2850.36] I think I'd rather be down here -[2850.36 --> 2851.14] if you don't mind -[2851.14 --> 2855.84] hopefully you can all see me -[2855.84 --> 2858.14] I feel like I'm a little bit more -[2858.14 --> 2858.92] a part of you -[2858.92 --> 2863.38] something that -[2863.38 --> 2866.72] you might take for granted -[2866.72 --> 2868.62] coming here every week -[2868.62 --> 2869.74] but -[2869.74 --> 2871.12] tradition -[2871.12 --> 2872.10] or -[2872.10 --> 2873.92] habit -[2873.92 --> 2875.02] that you -[2875.02 --> 2876.40] several of them -[2876.40 --> 2877.46] that you have here -[2877.46 --> 2877.98] that -[2877.98 --> 2878.96] we -[2878.96 --> 2879.90] appreciate -[2879.90 --> 2880.50] is -[2880.50 --> 2882.46] deacons -[2882.46 --> 2884.20] making the announcement -[2884.20 --> 2885.32] about the offering -[2885.32 --> 2886.92] elders -[2886.92 --> 2888.34] praying -[2888.34 --> 2889.60] and -[2889.60 --> 2890.10] this -[2890.10 --> 2891.24] little habit -[2891.24 --> 2892.18] of blessing -[2892.18 --> 2893.06] you know -[2893.06 --> 2893.68] the kids -[2893.68 --> 2894.96] these are -[2894.96 --> 2897.50] wonderful things -[2897.50 --> 2898.50] that maybe you take -[2898.50 --> 2899.16] for granted -[2899.16 --> 2900.04] but they're -[2900.04 --> 2901.32] I think they're very -[2901.32 --> 2903.92] they're rich traditions -[2903.92 --> 2904.66] they're healthy -[2904.66 --> 2904.90] traditions -[2904.90 --> 2905.60] traditions -[2905.60 --> 2910.50] some time ago -[2910.50 --> 2911.80] Pastor Chris -[2911.80 --> 2913.12] I think back in June -[2913.12 --> 2914.10] said we're going to do -[2914.10 --> 2915.38] parables for the summer -[2915.38 --> 2917.32] go ahead and pick one -[2917.32 --> 2919.18] so I did -[2919.18 --> 2920.28] and so we're -[2920.28 --> 2921.76] looking at another -[2921.76 --> 2922.46] parable -[2922.46 --> 2922.84] the -[2922.84 --> 2924.24] parable of the -[2924.24 --> 2925.04] rich man -[2925.04 --> 2925.66] and -[2925.66 --> 2927.04] Lazarus -[2927.04 --> 2928.22] and -[2928.22 --> 2931.02] the prayer -[2931.02 --> 2932.06] this morning -[2932.06 --> 2932.84] made me -[2932.84 --> 2934.48] it was in that way -[2934.48 --> 2935.36] appropriate too -[2935.36 --> 2936.36] how do you think about -[2936.36 --> 2937.28] street people -[2937.28 --> 2938.04] and -[2938.04 --> 2939.20] these are some -[2939.20 --> 2940.18] of the poor -[2940.18 --> 2941.30] that are -[2941.30 --> 2942.32] among us -[2942.32 --> 2946.86] Luke 16 -[2946.86 --> 2947.86] actually has two -[2947.86 --> 2948.78] parables in it -[2948.78 --> 2953.90] I've preached the other -[2953.90 --> 2954.54] one here -[2954.54 --> 2955.96] I'm sure you all -[2955.96 --> 2956.82] remember it -[2956.82 --> 2958.20] it's about -[2958.20 --> 2958.78] I don't know -[2958.78 --> 2959.82] a couple years ago -[2959.82 --> 2961.22] both these parables -[2961.22 --> 2962.22] are about money -[2962.22 --> 2964.20] and riches -[2964.20 --> 2967.46] the first parable -[2967.46 --> 2969.62] in Luke 16 -[2969.62 --> 2971.80] is about -[2971.80 --> 2973.02] the shrewd -[2973.02 --> 2973.76] manager -[2973.76 --> 2974.42] where -[2974.42 --> 2977.04] Jesus makes this -[2977.04 --> 2978.60] it seems like -[2978.60 --> 2979.66] a strange -[2979.66 --> 2980.38] statement -[2980.38 --> 2982.18] to use -[2982.18 --> 2983.46] worldly -[2983.46 --> 2984.46] wealth -[2984.46 --> 2986.28] Luke 16 -[2986.28 --> 2987.00] 9 -[2987.00 --> 2988.40] use -[2988.40 --> 2989.20] worldly -[2989.20 --> 2989.94] wealth -[2989.94 --> 2991.02] to gain -[2991.02 --> 2992.08] friends -[2992.08 --> 2993.46] for yourself -[2993.46 --> 2995.60] that's like -[2995.60 --> 2996.70] use -[2996.70 --> 2997.18] your -[2997.18 --> 2998.02] cash -[2998.02 --> 2999.18] to build -[2999.18 --> 2999.88] good -[2999.88 --> 3000.62] connections -[3000.62 --> 3002.10] one of the -[3002.10 --> 3002.80] best things -[3002.80 --> 3003.20] you can do -[3003.20 --> 3003.72] with money -[3003.72 --> 3007.10] money -[3007.10 --> 3007.46] is -[3007.46 --> 3008.26] a huge -[3008.26 --> 3008.54] thing -[3008.54 --> 3009.30] and as I say -[3009.30 --> 3009.70] both -[3009.70 --> 3010.52] that parable -[3010.52 --> 3010.94] and the one -[3010.94 --> 3011.52] we're looking at -[3011.52 --> 3011.92] have to do -[3011.92 --> 3012.40] with money -[3012.40 --> 3013.14] because at the -[3013.14 --> 3013.44] end of that -[3013.44 --> 3013.70] parable -[3013.70 --> 3013.98] he says -[3013.98 --> 3014.48] you can't -[3014.48 --> 3014.96] serve two -[3014.96 --> 3015.48] masters -[3015.48 --> 3017.78] you can't -[3017.78 --> 3018.48] serve both -[3018.48 --> 3019.16] God -[3019.16 --> 3021.22] and money -[3021.22 --> 3022.74] and then -[3022.74 --> 3023.86] in verse 14 -[3023.86 --> 3026.20] Luke notes -[3026.20 --> 3028.10] the Pharisees -[3028.10 --> 3030.50] who loved -[3030.50 --> 3031.60] money -[3031.60 --> 3034.90] heard all -[3034.90 --> 3035.34] this -[3035.34 --> 3037.22] and were -[3037.22 --> 3038.30] sneering -[3038.30 --> 3039.46] at Jesus -[3039.46 --> 3040.92] mockers -[3040.92 --> 3041.30] in the -[3041.30 --> 3041.62] pew -[3041.62 --> 3044.30] I think -[3044.30 --> 3044.96] the next -[3044.96 --> 3045.62] parable -[3045.62 --> 3046.74] the rich -[3046.74 --> 3047.14] man -[3047.14 --> 3048.16] and -[3048.16 --> 3049.54] Lazarus -[3049.54 --> 3054.10] is -[3054.10 --> 3055.24] directed -[3055.24 --> 3055.76] for -[3055.76 --> 3057.34] the Pharisee -[3057.34 --> 3058.36] in all -[3058.36 --> 3059.02] of us -[3059.02 --> 3060.06] who love -[3060.06 --> 3060.46] money -[3060.46 --> 3065.98] and -[3065.98 --> 3066.36] in this -[3066.36 --> 3066.86] parable -[3066.86 --> 3068.14] Jesus -[3068.14 --> 3068.82] is also -[3068.82 --> 3069.34] saying -[3069.34 --> 3069.76] as he -[3069.76 --> 3070.08] talks -[3070.08 --> 3070.32] about -[3070.32 --> 3070.70] money -[3070.70 --> 3071.04] that -[3071.04 --> 3071.26] it -[3071.26 --> 3072.64] can't -[3072.64 --> 3073.00] buy -[3073.00 --> 3073.54] you -[3073.54 --> 3074.48] or -[3074.48 --> 3074.92] your -[3074.92 --> 3076.02] friends -[3076.02 --> 3077.70] eternal -[3077.70 --> 3078.24] life -[3078.24 --> 3079.40] you can -[3079.40 --> 3080.04] use money -[3080.04 --> 3080.46] to build -[3080.46 --> 3081.04] connections -[3081.04 --> 3081.50] but -[3081.50 --> 3082.56] you -[3082.56 --> 3083.56] can't -[3083.56 --> 3083.78] buy -[3083.78 --> 3084.22] your way -[3084.22 --> 3084.48] into -[3084.48 --> 3084.88] heaven -[3084.88 --> 3086.44] here's -[3086.44 --> 3086.60] the -[3086.60 --> 3087.04] parable -[3087.04 --> 3090.46] there -[3090.46 --> 3090.80] was a -[3090.80 --> 3091.00] rich -[3091.00 --> 3091.38] man -[3091.38 --> 3093.52] who -[3093.52 --> 3093.74] was -[3093.74 --> 3094.08] dressed -[3094.08 --> 3094.34] in -[3094.34 --> 3094.70] purple -[3094.70 --> 3094.96] and -[3094.96 --> 3095.34] fine -[3095.34 --> 3095.66] linen -[3095.66 --> 3095.98] and -[3095.98 --> 3096.34] lived -[3096.34 --> 3096.62] in -[3096.62 --> 3097.16] luxury -[3097.16 --> 3098.10] every -[3098.10 --> 3098.48] day -[3098.48 --> 3100.82] at -[3100.82 --> 3101.08] his -[3101.08 --> 3101.54] gate -[3101.54 --> 3101.82] was -[3101.82 --> 3102.06] laid -[3102.06 --> 3102.30] a -[3102.30 --> 3102.68] beggar -[3102.68 --> 3103.22] named -[3103.22 --> 3104.20] Lazarus -[3104.20 --> 3105.04] covered -[3105.04 --> 3105.38] with -[3105.38 --> 3105.94] sores -[3105.94 --> 3106.42] and -[3106.42 --> 3107.04] longing -[3107.04 --> 3107.42] to -[3107.42 --> 3107.70] eat -[3107.70 --> 3107.94] what -[3107.94 --> 3108.24] fell -[3108.24 --> 3108.48] from -[3108.48 --> 3108.66] the -[3108.66 --> 3108.90] rich -[3108.90 --> 3109.40] man's -[3109.40 --> 3109.92] table -[3109.92 --> 3110.94] even -[3110.94 --> 3111.24] the -[3111.24 --> 3111.82] dogs -[3111.82 --> 3112.46] came -[3112.46 --> 3113.12] and -[3113.12 --> 3113.68] licked -[3113.68 --> 3114.30] his -[3114.30 --> 3114.94] sores -[3114.94 --> 3116.54] the -[3116.54 --> 3116.86] time -[3116.86 --> 3117.18] came -[3117.18 --> 3117.34] when -[3117.34 --> 3117.50] the -[3117.50 --> 3117.82] beggar -[3117.82 --> 3118.28] died -[3118.28 --> 3118.48] and -[3118.48 --> 3118.62] the -[3118.62 --> 3119.00] angels -[3119.00 --> 3119.42] carried -[3119.42 --> 3119.60] him -[3119.60 --> 3119.74] to -[3119.74 --> 3120.32] Abraham's -[3120.32 --> 3120.72] side -[3120.72 --> 3121.36] the -[3121.36 --> 3121.54] rich -[3121.54 --> 3121.78] man -[3121.78 --> 3122.12] also -[3122.12 --> 3122.48] died -[3122.48 --> 3122.66] and -[3122.66 --> 3122.84] was -[3122.84 --> 3123.22] buried -[3123.22 --> 3124.10] in -[3124.10 --> 3124.50] Hades -[3124.50 --> 3124.84] where -[3124.84 --> 3125.14] he -[3125.14 --> 3125.52] was -[3125.52 --> 3125.82] in -[3125.82 --> 3126.30] torment -[3126.30 --> 3126.72] he -[3126.72 --> 3127.12] looked -[3127.12 --> 3127.54] up -[3127.54 --> 3128.34] and -[3128.34 --> 3128.54] saw -[3128.54 --> 3129.12] Abraham -[3129.12 --> 3129.86] far -[3129.86 --> 3130.38] away -[3130.38 --> 3131.40] with -[3131.40 --> 3132.36] Lazarus -[3132.36 --> 3132.86] by his -[3132.86 --> 3133.26] side -[3133.26 --> 3134.84] so he -[3134.84 --> 3135.14] called -[3135.14 --> 3135.46] him -[3135.46 --> 3136.86] father -[3136.86 --> 3137.46] Abraham -[3137.46 --> 3138.56] have -[3138.56 --> 3138.94] pity -[3138.94 --> 3139.24] on -[3139.24 --> 3139.52] me -[3139.52 --> 3139.72] and -[3139.72 --> 3140.18] send -[3140.18 --> 3140.88] Lazarus -[3140.88 --> 3141.14] to -[3141.14 --> 3142.12] dip -[3142.12 --> 3142.38] the -[3142.38 --> 3142.64] tip -[3142.64 --> 3143.00] of his -[3143.00 --> 3143.38] finger -[3143.38 --> 3143.58] in -[3143.58 --> 3143.88] water -[3143.88 --> 3144.12] and -[3144.12 --> 3144.80] cool -[3144.80 --> 3145.10] my -[3145.10 --> 3145.46] tongue -[3145.46 --> 3145.74] because -[3145.74 --> 3146.64] I'm -[3146.64 --> 3146.78] in -[3146.78 --> 3147.32] agony -[3147.32 --> 3147.62] in -[3147.62 --> 3147.84] this -[3147.84 --> 3148.24] fire -[3148.24 --> 3149.90] but -[3149.90 --> 3150.26] Abraham -[3150.26 --> 3150.90] replied -[3150.90 --> 3152.02] son -[3152.02 --> 3154.78] remember -[3154.78 --> 3155.56] that in -[3155.56 --> 3155.74] your -[3155.74 --> 3156.34] lifetime -[3156.34 --> 3156.74] you -[3156.74 --> 3157.30] received -[3157.30 --> 3158.00] your -[3158.00 --> 3158.26] good -[3158.26 --> 3158.82] things -[3158.82 --> 3159.62] while -[3159.62 --> 3160.34] Lazarus -[3160.34 --> 3160.92] received -[3160.92 --> 3161.28] bad -[3161.28 --> 3161.82] things -[3161.82 --> 3163.14] but -[3163.14 --> 3163.34] now -[3163.34 --> 3163.74] he is -[3163.74 --> 3164.34] comforted -[3164.34 --> 3164.78] here -[3164.78 --> 3165.60] and -[3165.60 --> 3165.84] you -[3165.84 --> 3166.06] are -[3166.06 --> 3166.20] in -[3166.20 --> 3166.62] agony -[3166.62 --> 3169.18] and -[3169.18 --> 3169.54] besides -[3169.54 --> 3169.94] all -[3169.94 --> 3170.22] this -[3170.22 --> 3170.58] between -[3170.58 --> 3171.00] us -[3171.00 --> 3171.16] and -[3171.16 --> 3171.32] you -[3171.32 --> 3171.52] a -[3171.52 --> 3171.84] great -[3171.84 --> 3172.38] chasm -[3172.38 --> 3172.70] has -[3172.70 --> 3172.90] been -[3172.90 --> 3173.24] set -[3173.24 --> 3173.46] in -[3173.46 --> 3173.86] place -[3173.86 --> 3174.02] so -[3174.02 --> 3174.16] that -[3174.16 --> 3174.58] those -[3174.58 --> 3175.12] who -[3175.12 --> 3175.42] want -[3175.42 --> 3175.60] to -[3175.60 --> 3175.80] go -[3175.80 --> 3176.06] from -[3176.06 --> 3176.40] here -[3176.40 --> 3176.68] to -[3176.68 --> 3177.12] you -[3177.12 --> 3177.92] cannot -[3177.92 --> 3178.98] nor -[3178.98 --> 3179.32] can -[3179.32 --> 3179.78] anyone -[3179.78 --> 3180.42] cross -[3180.42 --> 3180.88] over -[3180.88 --> 3181.44] from -[3181.44 --> 3182.02] there -[3182.02 --> 3182.64] to -[3182.64 --> 3183.28] us -[3183.28 --> 3186.14] he -[3186.14 --> 3186.52] answered -[3186.52 --> 3186.70] then -[3186.70 --> 3186.84] I -[3186.84 --> 3187.28] beg -[3187.28 --> 3187.48] you -[3187.48 --> 3187.92] father -[3187.92 --> 3188.40] send -[3188.40 --> 3189.06] Lazarus -[3189.06 --> 3189.24] to -[3189.24 --> 3189.46] my -[3189.46 --> 3190.04] family -[3190.04 --> 3190.34] for -[3190.34 --> 3190.54] I -[3190.54 --> 3190.74] have -[3190.74 --> 3191.16] five -[3191.16 --> 3191.74] brothers -[3191.74 --> 3193.86] let him -[3193.86 --> 3194.24] warn -[3194.24 --> 3194.54] them -[3194.54 --> 3194.90] so that -[3194.90 --> 3195.04] they -[3195.04 --> 3195.22] will -[3195.22 --> 3195.44] not -[3195.44 --> 3195.78] also -[3195.78 --> 3196.08] come -[3196.08 --> 3196.24] to -[3196.24 --> 3196.46] this -[3196.46 --> 3196.80] place -[3196.80 --> 3196.98] of -[3196.98 --> 3197.46] torment -[3197.46 --> 3199.08] Abraham -[3199.08 --> 3199.64] replied -[3199.64 --> 3200.54] they -[3200.54 --> 3200.88] have -[3200.88 --> 3201.38] Moses -[3201.38 --> 3201.70] and -[3201.70 --> 3201.84] the -[3201.84 --> 3202.36] prophets -[3202.36 --> 3202.72] let -[3202.72 --> 3202.90] them -[3202.90 --> 3203.22] listen -[3203.22 --> 3203.44] to -[3203.44 --> 3203.80] them -[3203.80 --> 3205.62] no -[3205.62 --> 3206.14] father -[3206.14 --> 3206.66] Abraham -[3206.66 --> 3207.06] but if -[3207.06 --> 3207.36] someone -[3207.36 --> 3207.84] from the -[3207.84 --> 3208.16] dead -[3208.16 --> 3208.50] goes -[3208.50 --> 3208.68] to -[3208.68 --> 3208.92] them -[3208.92 --> 3209.72] they -[3209.72 --> 3210.12] will -[3210.12 --> 3210.84] repent -[3210.84 --> 3213.64] and -[3213.64 --> 3214.08] Abraham -[3214.08 --> 3214.54] said -[3214.54 --> 3214.72] to -[3214.72 --> 3214.98] them -[3214.98 --> 3215.64] if -[3215.64 --> 3215.86] they -[3215.86 --> 3216.12] do -[3216.12 --> 3216.42] not -[3216.42 --> 3216.94] listen -[3216.94 --> 3217.72] to -[3217.72 --> 3218.28] Moses -[3218.28 --> 3219.08] and -[3219.08 --> 3219.32] the -[3219.32 --> 3219.88] prophets -[3219.88 --> 3221.30] they -[3221.30 --> 3221.54] will -[3221.54 --> 3222.06] not -[3222.06 --> 3222.56] be -[3222.56 --> 3223.20] convinced -[3223.20 --> 3224.02] even -[3224.02 --> 3224.72] if -[3224.72 --> 3225.26] someone -[3225.26 --> 3226.00] rises -[3226.00 --> 3227.20] from -[3227.20 --> 3227.38] the -[3227.38 --> 3227.68] dead -[3227.68 --> 3228.94] the -[3228.94 --> 3229.22] word -[3229.22 --> 3229.38] of -[3229.38 --> 3229.50] the -[3229.50 --> 3229.90] Lord -[3229.90 --> 3231.26] thanks -[3231.26 --> 3231.50] be -[3231.50 --> 3231.70] to -[3231.70 --> 3232.10] God -[3232.10 --> 3234.44] well -[3234.44 --> 3234.58] if -[3234.58 --> 3234.72] you -[3234.72 --> 3235.08] want -[3235.08 --> 3235.32] to -[3235.32 --> 3236.08] seriously -[3236.08 --> 3236.48] get -[3236.48 --> 3237.04] into -[3237.04 --> 3237.76] a -[3237.76 --> 3238.40] spiritual -[3238.40 --> 3239.70] discussion -[3239.70 --> 3240.50] with -[3240.50 --> 3241.04] someone -[3241.04 --> 3242.28] brothers -[3242.28 --> 3242.62] and -[3242.62 --> 3243.02] sisters -[3243.02 --> 3244.26] it's -[3244.26 --> 3244.68] good -[3244.68 --> 3244.94] to -[3244.94 --> 3245.42] ask -[3245.42 --> 3245.70] them -[3245.70 --> 3246.00] what -[3246.00 --> 3246.92] do -[3246.92 --> 3247.14] you -[3247.14 --> 3247.54] think -[3247.54 --> 3248.22] happens -[3248.22 --> 3248.78] when -[3248.78 --> 3248.94] you -[3248.94 --> 3249.24] die -[3249.24 --> 3254.14] do -[3254.14 --> 3254.30] you -[3254.30 --> 3254.60] believe -[3254.60 --> 3254.78] in -[3254.78 --> 3255.14] life -[3255.14 --> 3255.48] after -[3255.48 --> 3255.88] death -[3255.88 --> 3258.44] an -[3258.44 --> 3259.54] unchurched -[3259.54 --> 3259.96] person -[3259.96 --> 3260.64] told me -[3260.64 --> 3260.88] this -[3260.88 --> 3261.08] one -[3261.08 --> 3261.24] time -[3261.24 --> 3261.38] these -[3261.38 --> 3261.46] are -[3261.46 --> 3261.64] good -[3261.64 --> 3262.16] questions -[3262.16 --> 3262.38] do -[3262.38 --> 3264.24] you -[3264.24 --> 3264.60] think -[3264.60 --> 3264.88] there's -[3264.88 --> 3265.04] a -[3265.04 --> 3265.32] heaven -[3265.32 --> 3265.66] and -[3265.66 --> 3266.74] well -[3266.74 --> 3267.10] most -[3267.10 --> 3267.28] do -[3267.28 --> 3267.44] that -[3267.44 --> 3267.74] but -[3267.74 --> 3267.94] a -[3267.94 --> 3268.32] hell -[3268.32 --> 3271.52] and -[3271.52 --> 3271.74] do -[3271.74 --> 3271.92] you -[3271.92 --> 3272.46] actually -[3272.46 --> 3273.18] think -[3273.18 --> 3273.62] that -[3273.62 --> 3273.98] how -[3273.98 --> 3274.28] we -[3274.28 --> 3274.64] live -[3274.64 --> 3274.84] in -[3274.84 --> 3275.10] this -[3275.10 --> 3275.68] life -[3275.68 --> 3278.00] makes -[3278.00 --> 3278.22] a -[3278.22 --> 3278.76] difference -[3278.76 --> 3279.16] for -[3279.16 --> 3279.32] the -[3279.32 --> 3279.56] next -[3279.56 --> 3279.86] one -[3279.86 --> 3282.36] this -[3282.36 --> 3282.76] parable -[3282.76 --> 3283.50] speaks -[3283.50 --> 3284.32] to -[3284.32 --> 3284.58] those -[3284.58 --> 3284.90] kinds -[3284.90 --> 3285.06] of -[3285.06 --> 3285.36] questions -[3285.36 --> 3286.36] a -[3286.36 --> 3288.60] couple -[3288.60 --> 3289.18] points -[3289.18 --> 3290.32] first -[3290.32 --> 3290.72] it's -[3290.72 --> 3291.26] significant -[3291.26 --> 3291.64] that -[3291.64 --> 3291.92] this -[3291.92 --> 3292.22] rich -[3292.22 --> 3292.56] man -[3292.56 --> 3292.88] has -[3292.88 --> 3293.22] no -[3293.22 --> 3293.68] name -[3293.68 --> 3295.32] while -[3295.32 --> 3295.52] the -[3295.52 --> 3295.74] poor -[3295.74 --> 3296.08] man -[3296.08 --> 3296.36] has -[3296.36 --> 3296.52] a -[3296.52 --> 3296.82] name -[3296.82 --> 3298.26] Lazarus -[3298.26 --> 3300.26] his name -[3300.26 --> 3300.68] means -[3300.68 --> 3301.14] God -[3301.14 --> 3301.52] has -[3301.52 --> 3302.02] helped -[3302.02 --> 3303.34] loved -[3303.34 --> 3303.82] you -[3303.82 --> 3309.54] God -[3309.54 --> 3310.02] will -[3310.02 --> 3310.40] be -[3310.40 --> 3310.80] old -[3310.80 --> 3311.02] a -[3311.02 --> 3311.52] m -[3311.52 --> 3319.50] god -[3319.50 --> 3320.24] is -[3320.24 --> 3320.58] being -[3320.58 --> 3321.18] honored -[3321.18 --> 3321.66] and -[3321.66 --> 3322.92] obeyed -[3322.92 --> 3327.16] servants, his people, are being named. -[3328.62 --> 3332.94] That's why genealogies are important in the Bible. -[3332.94 --> 3337.02] That's why it's important that churches keep records. -[3338.22 --> 3338.90] People matter. -[3341.84 --> 3346.64] The scriptures talk about us having our name written in the book of life. -[3346.64 --> 3356.96] See, so you might say no name Christianity with mass produced religion in the name of institutional -[3356.96 --> 3359.66] success is not what the scriptures are about. -[3363.42 --> 3368.04] Well, not just, first of all, then there's this parable, as we said, about money. -[3369.78 --> 3371.52] A rich and a poor man. -[3373.24 --> 3376.34] One ends up in heaven and one ends up in hell. -[3376.34 --> 3381.48] And you might have to do with, you might think it's about, well, if you're rich, you can't -[3381.48 --> 3382.30] go to heaven. -[3382.50 --> 3384.60] But if you're poor, you will. -[3386.54 --> 3392.04] I don't believe this parable condemns money. -[3392.42 --> 3399.40] It's not immoral to have a lot of money. -[3400.88 --> 3402.82] I may have said this before. -[3402.82 --> 3408.38] If it is immoral to be rich, God's in big trouble. -[3410.96 --> 3415.26] You see, it's how we get it and how we give and steward it. -[3416.02 --> 3417.82] That's what he's concerned about. -[3420.62 --> 3428.52] Whether we have little or much, it's what's in our hearts and how we use our hands to, you -[3428.52 --> 3430.88] might say, implement our wealth. -[3432.06 --> 3437.20] This rich man has a cold and a callous heart. -[3438.40 --> 3443.90] He turns a blind eye to this fellow at his doorstep. -[3443.90 --> 3450.16] And Jesus is judging him for his casual indifference. -[3451.72 --> 3456.84] Oh, he may have donated to worthwhile causes, but his heart was not engaged. -[3458.48 --> 3460.88] The dogs at his table had more heart. -[3460.88 --> 3471.64] Those canines showed mercy by using the healing that's actually in a dog's tongue to lick this -[3471.64 --> 3473.24] poor man's wounds. -[3475.44 --> 3481.34] You know, what happens in poor cultures, I think we're increasingly in danger of it in -[3481.34 --> 3485.44] ours, is there's a larger gap between the rich and the poor. -[3485.44 --> 3499.12] Here's a very affluent man dressed in purple in fine linen, and he lived in luxury every day. -[3500.58 --> 3502.84] Tailor-made, expensive suits. -[3503.58 --> 3507.22] Last time I read the most expensive suit in the world was just under a million. -[3507.22 --> 3516.48] I remember hearing that some of the people who went to the Oscars had shoes valued at over -[3516.48 --> 3517.12] a million. -[3518.82 --> 3519.66] Wow. -[3521.10 --> 3532.38] This man, living in luxury, does what comes natural to people with wealth, protects himself. -[3533.88 --> 3536.52] Protects himself even from the poor. -[3537.22 --> 3545.42] And what he thinks might be the pain of those who could potentially steal from him. -[3546.70 --> 3551.42] Security continues to be big business. -[3553.02 --> 3560.02] Yet how do you protect yourself from the powerless feeling that this man surely got when he kept -[3560.02 --> 3565.84] seeing that poor man sitting at his gate begging for the basics? -[3567.22 --> 3570.46] Well, modernize it. -[3570.46 --> 3571.58] It might have helped, you know. -[3571.70 --> 3577.80] He would drive by with his wonderful vehicle and the windows rolled up, you know, with the dark ones. -[3578.14 --> 3581.82] He couldn't see in and hopefully he wouldn't look out too much. -[3582.58 --> 3585.92] Protecting him from the heat and all that's going on. -[3585.92 --> 3597.26] And while he's driving by, he's probably rationalizing his lack of engagement with the somewhat truism that this fellow was too lazy to work anyways. -[3597.26 --> 3602.26] And you know, you know, you help one another show up. -[3604.66 --> 3606.98] Relieving poverty is a bottomless pit. -[3606.98 --> 3612.24] Only Lazarus doesn't fit his mold. -[3613.66 --> 3615.16] He's not an immoral man. -[3617.10 --> 3619.84] He's come by his poverty honestly. -[3621.02 --> 3622.78] He would love to work. -[3624.38 --> 3629.68] But he's been disabled due to his illness. -[3629.68 --> 3633.18] He's not allowed to go out and work. -[3634.64 --> 3637.14] And begging was his welfare system. -[3638.54 --> 3642.54] I saw this working a few times when we visited in Vietnam. -[3642.88 --> 3644.64] I saw beggars on the street. -[3644.86 --> 3648.28] As they went down the businesses, all the business people were chipping in. -[3649.40 --> 3650.50] I thought, that's strange. -[3651.54 --> 3654.64] But this incredibly disabled man had no other option. -[3654.64 --> 3658.24] So Lazarus wouldn't think of stealing. -[3659.34 --> 3666.86] And what he's dreaming of is if he could just have some of the food that's dropping from this rich man's table. -[3667.14 --> 3667.98] Some leftovers. -[3669.60 --> 3671.00] But he gets ignored. -[3671.84 --> 3673.58] Well, except by the guard dogs. -[3674.74 --> 3676.06] And by God. -[3676.96 --> 3678.40] God hasn't overlooked him. -[3678.40 --> 3686.02] And so there is this huge contrast between these two men. -[3687.52 --> 3688.92] In this life. -[3689.80 --> 3691.70] As in the life to come. -[3692.76 --> 3693.38] It's like. -[3694.22 --> 3695.88] If this is a drama. -[3696.04 --> 3697.16] The curtains drawn. -[3697.34 --> 3698.76] The props get changed. -[3698.90 --> 3700.72] And suddenly we're in act two. -[3701.06 --> 3703.94] And we meet these two in the next life. -[3703.94 --> 3708.46] And the angels have carried Lazarus up to heaven. -[3708.64 --> 3710.32] Where he's welcomed by. -[3710.58 --> 3712.66] As every Jew would only think about. -[3713.30 --> 3714.34] Father Abraham. -[3716.06 --> 3717.08] Embraced by him. -[3720.50 --> 3723.30] Here we get a picture of what God does to those who die. -[3725.38 --> 3726.00] I don't know about you. -[3726.10 --> 3727.96] But in my ministry I've read. -[3727.96 --> 3734.18] And I've heard stories of those who see angels coming. -[3734.88 --> 3736.28] To take them away. -[3738.42 --> 3743.00] I remember Dave Alexander telling me about when his dad died. -[3743.56 --> 3744.78] That's what he saw. -[3744.90 --> 3745.78] This great light. -[3746.34 --> 3747.68] And his father passed away. -[3747.90 --> 3749.50] He said he took the fear of death away. -[3750.08 --> 3750.64] He was one. -[3750.64 --> 3754.64] Now we can't be too dogmatic. -[3754.94 --> 3756.64] About all what might. -[3757.08 --> 3758.00] Might happen. -[3759.24 --> 3759.90] When we. -[3760.10 --> 3760.34] You know. -[3760.42 --> 3761.46] How we get to heaven. -[3761.78 --> 3763.46] And how we can identify. -[3763.72 --> 3765.56] How well are we going to identify. -[3766.24 --> 3767.28] But we do know this. -[3767.38 --> 3769.72] We're not going to be part of a nameless crowd. -[3770.10 --> 3771.38] We will know each other. -[3774.28 --> 3775.10] But if we. -[3775.60 --> 3776.42] We might. -[3776.42 --> 3778.88] If we try and get too much detail. -[3778.88 --> 3779.76] Out of this parable. -[3779.76 --> 3780.86] Well we might conclude. -[3781.00 --> 3782.94] That those who end up on Hades. -[3783.06 --> 3784.20] On the other side. -[3784.80 --> 3786.94] Can actually look into heaven. -[3787.20 --> 3789.10] And see people over there. -[3791.74 --> 3793.48] And never gain relief. -[3794.00 --> 3794.76] And I guess. -[3794.92 --> 3795.76] It could be true. -[3795.84 --> 3797.18] Because if you think about it. -[3798.28 --> 3799.68] What's spiritual hell? -[3799.94 --> 3801.02] It's sitting here. -[3801.50 --> 3803.18] Watching people over there. -[3804.02 --> 3805.24] Knowing how good they have it. -[3805.24 --> 3807.50] And knowing you can never get there. -[3809.76 --> 3810.68] Oof. -[3811.56 --> 3812.22] That's hell. -[3812.72 --> 3813.46] That's painful. -[3814.82 --> 3816.06] Well in any case. -[3816.44 --> 3817.66] Here's this man in hell. -[3817.90 --> 3818.02] After. -[3819.20 --> 3821.74] I think we can assume he had an expensive funeral. -[3822.00 --> 3823.46] A pretty ornate casket. -[3823.64 --> 3824.28] And flowers. -[3824.66 --> 3824.78] And. -[3825.48 --> 3826.32] Here he is though. -[3827.18 --> 3827.86] In hell. -[3828.62 --> 3829.14] Hades. -[3830.14 --> 3831.18] His suit's gone. -[3831.18 --> 3831.32] And. -[3831.32 --> 3836.08] I remember someone once wrote. -[3836.22 --> 3837.40] If I can't take it with me. -[3837.46 --> 3838.16] I'm not going. -[3839.48 --> 3840.74] Well a nice try. -[3840.92 --> 3841.64] We're all going. -[3842.14 --> 3842.42] And. -[3842.74 --> 3844.10] We're not going to take it with us. -[3844.20 --> 3845.58] But we will get our reward. -[3846.22 --> 3847.22] As this man did. -[3848.82 --> 3849.66] And when he. -[3849.66 --> 3852.10] Gets to his eternal destination. -[3852.32 --> 3853.54] He begins to suffer. -[3855.62 --> 3856.30] And you know. -[3856.36 --> 3857.62] When we start suffering. -[3858.08 --> 3859.44] Whatever it is. -[3859.68 --> 3860.46] That we have. -[3860.68 --> 3861.18] We start. -[3861.86 --> 3862.84] Recognizing others. -[3863.68 --> 3863.94] Who. -[3864.10 --> 3864.72] Who suffer. -[3866.58 --> 3867.14] And. -[3867.38 --> 3867.74] Suddenly. -[3869.22 --> 3870.86] He's thinking about Lazarus. -[3870.96 --> 3871.20] Well. -[3873.06 --> 3873.58] Actually. -[3874.02 --> 3876.04] I think he's more thinking of himself. -[3877.10 --> 3879.38] He's not moved to pity anymore about him. -[3879.38 --> 3880.10] Now he's got. -[3880.42 --> 3880.94] Self. -[3881.70 --> 3882.02] Pity. -[3883.02 --> 3884.66] And now guess who's begging. -[3885.84 --> 3886.54] It's him. -[3889.00 --> 3890.16] Father Abraham. -[3890.30 --> 3891.54] Have pity on me. -[3893.06 --> 3894.42] Send Lazarus. -[3894.64 --> 3894.74] To. -[3894.92 --> 3895.76] To dip. -[3896.16 --> 3896.50] You know. -[3896.58 --> 3897.92] The tip of his finger. -[3898.10 --> 3898.56] In water. -[3898.82 --> 3898.84] And. -[3898.84 --> 3900.26] And cool my tongue. -[3900.38 --> 3901.36] I'm in agony. -[3901.36 --> 3902.34] In this fire. -[3904.46 --> 3904.90] I mean. -[3905.48 --> 3905.84] I mean. -[3905.84 --> 3906.28] This is. -[3906.46 --> 3907.40] A little bit more than. -[3907.52 --> 3907.68] You know. -[3907.74 --> 3908.26] He ordered. -[3908.42 --> 3909.00] Too spicy. -[3909.00 --> 3909.90] Food at a. -[3910.32 --> 3910.70] You know. -[3911.96 --> 3912.90] A restaurant. -[3913.16 --> 3914.18] And he's calling the waiter. -[3914.30 --> 3915.46] To give him a glass of water. -[3915.58 --> 3915.80] That's. -[3915.90 --> 3917.14] Much deeper than that. -[3919.52 --> 3920.56] But this man. -[3920.68 --> 3922.32] Thinks he can still make. -[3923.22 --> 3923.66] Demands. -[3924.50 --> 3926.06] He's always been in control. -[3926.14 --> 3926.72] Of his life. -[3928.78 --> 3929.86] The great sin. -[3929.94 --> 3931.16] Of not only many rich. -[3931.28 --> 3932.20] But of all too many. -[3932.20 --> 3933.20] In affluent countries. -[3933.20 --> 3934.20] Out of concern. -[3934.20 --> 3937.30] Out of concern for. -[3938.68 --> 3939.36] Ourselves. -[3939.36 --> 3940.40] People are quick. -[3940.40 --> 3940.96] To make. -[3941.22 --> 3941.90] Demands. -[3943.42 --> 3944.56] We used to buying. -[3945.00 --> 3945.60] Ordering. -[3947.36 --> 3947.96] Well. -[3948.58 --> 3949.48] Not so. -[3949.58 --> 3950.62] On the other side. -[3952.82 --> 3953.38] So. -[3953.46 --> 3954.40] Abram reminds. -[3954.40 --> 3955.62] His lost son. -[3955.72 --> 3956.52] He calls him. -[3956.52 --> 3958.02] That now. -[3958.02 --> 3959.28] He's starting to dream. -[3959.28 --> 3960.00] Of relief. -[3960.00 --> 3960.92] From the heat. -[3962.30 --> 3962.90] And. -[3962.98 --> 3964.54] The very thing. -[3965.84 --> 3966.46] Lazarus. -[3966.46 --> 3967.08] Used to have. -[3967.30 --> 3968.48] Similar dreams. -[3968.48 --> 3969.22] Of relief. -[3969.88 --> 3970.80] From probably heat. -[3970.80 --> 3971.80] And hunger. -[3971.80 --> 3975.44] It seems a little harsh. -[3975.54 --> 3975.94] Doesn't it? -[3976.58 --> 3977.10] Son. -[3977.32 --> 3978.34] Remember how. -[3978.42 --> 3979.28] In your lifetime. -[3981.18 --> 3981.44] You. -[3981.54 --> 3982.76] You received so many. -[3982.96 --> 3983.82] Good things. -[3983.90 --> 3984.58] In Lazarus. -[3984.64 --> 3984.84] Here. -[3984.92 --> 3985.12] He. -[3985.12 --> 3986.32] He got the bad end. -[3986.34 --> 3986.96] Of the stick. -[3987.54 --> 3988.22] And now. -[3988.30 --> 3989.14] He's comforted. -[3989.30 --> 3990.30] And you're in agony. -[3991.56 --> 3991.78] So. -[3992.04 --> 3992.22] Just. -[3992.48 --> 3993.36] Keep that in mind. -[3993.60 --> 3993.62] And. -[3994.58 --> 3995.58] Besides that. -[3997.52 --> 3998.52] There's this big. -[3999.18 --> 3999.70] Chasm. -[3999.70 --> 4002.40] And we can't go to you. -[4002.56 --> 4003.62] And you can't. -[4003.86 --> 4004.20] Come. -[4004.76 --> 4005.08] Over. -[4005.76 --> 4006.44] To us. -[4008.10 --> 4009.30] Well as we said. -[4009.40 --> 4010.24] Maybe this story. -[4010.42 --> 4011.00] Isn't meant. -[4011.00 --> 4012.16] As a precise. -[4013.20 --> 4013.84] Description. -[4014.28 --> 4014.72] Of heaven. -[4014.86 --> 4015.34] And hell. -[4015.48 --> 4016.04] But Jesus. -[4016.56 --> 4018.22] Is teaching us. -[4018.38 --> 4018.62] Here. -[4018.76 --> 4019.66] A few things. -[4019.98 --> 4020.42] Namely. -[4020.52 --> 4021.28] There is. -[4022.20 --> 4023.14] There is. -[4023.26 --> 4023.82] A heaven. -[4025.00 --> 4026.42] And there is. -[4026.92 --> 4027.40] A hell. -[4029.70 --> 4030.20] A heaven. -[4030.20 --> 4030.70] A heaven. -[4030.70 --> 4031.16] A heaven. -[4031.16 --> 4032.64] And he is. -[4032.64 --> 4033.82] Teaching us. -[4034.02 --> 4035.32] That this life. -[4035.74 --> 4036.18] Is. -[4036.50 --> 4037.56] A test. -[4038.40 --> 4039.28] For the one. -[4039.36 --> 4039.76] To come. -[4041.66 --> 4043.34] And when all is said. -[4043.42 --> 4043.88] And done. -[4046.16 --> 4047.32] There is. -[4047.50 --> 4048.44] No going back. -[4050.06 --> 4051.12] There is. -[4051.34 --> 4052.08] In the scriptures. -[4052.08 --> 4052.84] For us. -[4052.88 --> 4053.46] Eternally. -[4053.56 --> 4054.00] No. -[4054.44 --> 4054.96] Plan. -[4055.62 --> 4055.92] B. -[4055.92 --> 4056.52] No. -[4056.52 --> 4056.92] No. -[4056.92 --> 4057.92] No. -[4057.92 --> 4058.76] No. -[4058.76 --> 4059.28] Second. -[4059.28 --> 4060.04] Chances. -[4060.04 --> 4060.96] After. -[4060.96 --> 4062.06] The funeral. -[4063.10 --> 4063.86] No. -[4063.86 --> 4064.34] Court. -[4064.40 --> 4064.50] Of. -[4064.50 --> 4065.20] Appeal. -[4065.20 --> 4066.40] In hell. -[4067.40 --> 4067.66] No. -[4067.84 --> 4068.28] Crossing. -[4068.40 --> 4068.72] Over. -[4069.20 --> 4070.30] To the other side. -[4074.82 --> 4075.78] We. -[4076.04 --> 4076.28] Do. -[4076.60 --> 4077.02] Really. -[4077.50 --> 4078.00] Well. -[4078.44 --> 4078.98] To let. -[4079.46 --> 4079.84] These. -[4080.10 --> 4080.74] Truth. -[4081.14 --> 4081.72] Sink. -[4082.26 --> 4082.56] In. -[4082.56 --> 4082.62] In. -[4085.92 --> 4088.80] The rich man. -[4088.80 --> 4089.04] Now. -[4089.16 --> 4089.66] Gets it. -[4093.10 --> 4093.56] And. -[4093.68 --> 4094.70] They got to give this to him. -[4094.70 --> 4096.08] He's a bit of a family man. -[4098.16 --> 4098.62] Well. -[4098.72 --> 4098.96] Given. -[4099.14 --> 4099.20] As. -[4099.36 --> 4100.28] I'm stuck. -[4101.28 --> 4102.60] What about my family? -[4102.70 --> 4103.06] I got. -[4103.24 --> 4103.52] These. -[4103.80 --> 4104.12] These. -[4104.34 --> 4104.72] These. -[4104.72 --> 4105.30] These brothers. -[4106.36 --> 4106.84] And. -[4106.84 --> 4107.66] They're down there. -[4107.76 --> 4107.84] And. -[4107.86 --> 4108.04] They're. -[4108.14 --> 4109.12] They're like me. -[4109.46 --> 4109.72] And. -[4109.82 --> 4110.80] They need to know. -[4110.98 --> 4111.18] About. -[4111.40 --> 4111.76] This. -[4112.88 --> 4113.34] So. -[4113.48 --> 4114.32] I beg you. -[4114.58 --> 4114.98] You know. -[4114.98 --> 4115.90] Send. -[4116.56 --> 4117.00] Lazarus. -[4117.00 --> 4118.12] To my family. -[4118.56 --> 4119.78] To my five brothers. -[4120.44 --> 4120.64] And. -[4120.70 --> 4121.22] Have him. -[4121.78 --> 4122.46] Warn them. -[4122.58 --> 4125.00] So that they won't come to this place of torment. -[4126.66 --> 4128.32] The tone of defensiveness. -[4129.02 --> 4130.56] Because he's really saying. -[4130.64 --> 4130.82] You know. -[4130.86 --> 4131.90] If I'd have known this. -[4132.02 --> 4132.14] Well. -[4132.50 --> 4133.72] I'd have done different. -[4136.34 --> 4136.82] Hindsight. -[4137.28 --> 4137.68] 2020. -[4138.04 --> 4138.48] We say. -[4139.24 --> 4139.48] Well. -[4139.52 --> 4139.86] At least. -[4140.00 --> 4140.96] Give my family. -[4141.08 --> 4141.98] A set of lenses. -[4141.98 --> 4143.96] So that they can have some foresight. -[4143.96 --> 4148.16] Might say. -[4148.28 --> 4149.36] If I may speak lightly. -[4149.58 --> 4151.38] If you send Lazarus down there. -[4151.52 --> 4151.68] They'll. -[4151.76 --> 4153.42] He'll scare the hell out of them. -[4153.48 --> 4154.96] And they'll jump as high as heaven. -[4157.62 --> 4158.14] Well. -[4158.30 --> 4160.30] The possibility of that happening. -[4160.30 --> 4161.04] Says Abraham. -[4161.04 --> 4162.72] Is pretty low. -[4164.30 --> 4165.26] Not likely. -[4166.34 --> 4167.42] In fact. -[4167.54 --> 4168.66] This is interesting. -[4168.66 --> 4170.62] When Jesus spoke this parable. -[4170.72 --> 4172.66] Maybe that's why he uses his name. -[4172.66 --> 4175.74] He had already raised Lazarus. -[4175.74 --> 4176.50] From the dead. -[4178.94 --> 4180.26] And the Pharisees. -[4180.38 --> 4181.50] When they had seen that. -[4181.82 --> 4183.56] Got all the angry with Jesus. -[4184.70 --> 4186.38] And were all the more determined. -[4186.38 --> 4187.40] To put him to death. -[4187.40 --> 4193.96] Well. -[4196.08 --> 4198.00] What does Moses say. -[4198.14 --> 4198.32] I mean. -[4198.38 --> 4199.42] Abraham say. -[4199.62 --> 4200.38] In response. -[4200.48 --> 4201.38] To this request. -[4201.50 --> 4202.46] To send Lazarus. -[4202.54 --> 4202.68] Well. -[4202.76 --> 4203.52] They have Moses. -[4203.52 --> 4204.34] And the prophets. -[4206.92 --> 4208.30] Let them listen to them. -[4210.36 --> 4211.24] You might say. -[4211.32 --> 4213.04] We got a pocket Old Testament here. -[4213.16 --> 4215.02] Start handing out pocket Old Testaments. -[4215.78 --> 4216.66] That'll set you. -[4216.66 --> 4217.14] Do it. -[4218.82 --> 4220.22] To which the rich man. -[4220.44 --> 4220.90] Replies. -[4221.08 --> 4222.46] Because he knew his Old Testament. -[4222.62 --> 4222.76] No. -[4222.88 --> 4223.68] Father Abraham. -[4224.82 --> 4226.70] If someone comes from the dead. -[4228.22 --> 4229.58] They will repent. -[4230.86 --> 4231.72] Quite a word. -[4231.96 --> 4233.02] They will repent. -[4234.02 --> 4234.80] What's needed. -[4236.52 --> 4237.60] But then Abraham. -[4237.84 --> 4238.92] Gets in the last word. -[4239.04 --> 4239.78] In this parable. -[4240.38 --> 4240.66] No. -[4242.44 --> 4243.04] You know what. -[4243.06 --> 4244.00] If they don't have any use. -[4244.00 --> 4244.54] For Moses. -[4244.54 --> 4244.56] For Moses. -[4244.56 --> 4244.60] For Moses. -[4244.60 --> 4245.28] For the prophets. -[4245.28 --> 4245.48] For the prophets. -[4245.48 --> 4245.50] For the prophets. -[4247.28 --> 4248.68] They won't be convinced. -[4248.88 --> 4249.66] Even if someone. -[4249.66 --> 4250.72] Raises from the dead. -[4255.50 --> 4256.66] It's true today. -[4256.66 --> 4259.14] We live in a world. -[4259.14 --> 4260.42] That likes evidence. -[4263.38 --> 4265.88] Some people need to be reasoned into the faith. -[4266.10 --> 4267.58] But most in our generation. -[4267.78 --> 4268.92] They like to be wowed. -[4271.20 --> 4272.72] You can talk forever. -[4272.94 --> 4274.60] Words don't seem to have much. -[4275.10 --> 4275.58] Much. -[4276.22 --> 4276.78] Punch. -[4277.00 --> 4277.50] But boy. -[4277.62 --> 4279.24] Show me something spectacular. -[4280.64 --> 4282.02] That's why we love movies. -[4282.02 --> 4283.38] That are powerful. -[4284.04 --> 4285.38] Or big shows. -[4285.38 --> 4289.12] Something that will get to us. -[4289.26 --> 4290.30] And shake us. -[4293.10 --> 4295.46] But what will it really take. -[4295.64 --> 4297.48] To have us repent of our sin. -[4298.48 --> 4299.96] And follow Jesus. -[4301.10 --> 4303.14] And forever change our ways. -[4306.74 --> 4309.06] You know in our pleasure seeking world. -[4309.98 --> 4313.40] Where both legal and illegal drugs. -[4313.40 --> 4315.86] Are numbing so many minds. -[4315.86 --> 4318.56] To the reality of what's happening. -[4319.40 --> 4322.54] Words have less and less power. -[4324.12 --> 4330.14] And even if in our so called scientific day. -[4330.64 --> 4333.76] Where science seems to have so much power. -[4334.12 --> 4337.40] If someone came back from the dead. -[4337.40 --> 4342.74] Would that convince the spiritual skeptics. -[4342.74 --> 4343.86] Would that convince the spiritual skeptics. -[4347.24 --> 4348.24] No. -[4348.40 --> 4349.02] Says Abraham. -[4349.92 --> 4352.06] It will only affect those. -[4352.20 --> 4354.06] Who like the disciples of Jesus. -[4355.06 --> 4358.06] Are eager to know God. -[4359.06 --> 4360.86] And follow his word. -[4363.18 --> 4363.86] Obey him. -[4363.86 --> 4368.82] Jesus came back from the dead. -[4371.52 --> 4372.74] Startled the disciples. -[4373.64 --> 4374.38] That's for sure. -[4375.64 --> 4378.02] His resurrection is what jump started. -[4378.16 --> 4379.66] The New Testament church. -[4380.94 --> 4383.68] But it only started among those. -[4383.68 --> 4385.84] Who had a hunger for God. -[4386.32 --> 4387.54] And his word. -[4388.08 --> 4389.40] And who were looking for him. -[4389.40 --> 4393.06] They were open to God. -[4396.56 --> 4398.06] Do you hunger for God? -[4400.52 --> 4402.36] Do you want to know his word? -[4402.92 --> 4404.26] What's the truth of life? -[4405.44 --> 4406.36] How do I live? -[4409.70 --> 4411.66] It's all summed up in Jesus. -[4413.42 --> 4415.32] All you need to know about God. -[4416.40 --> 4416.92] Jesus. -[4417.08 --> 4418.58] The one speaking the parable. -[4419.40 --> 4421.58] And they couldn't see it. -[4422.96 --> 4424.24] Do you see it? -[4425.24 --> 4428.28] Or are you waiting to be wooed? -[4429.68 --> 4431.22] Somehow surprised? -[4433.74 --> 4436.14] The only wooing Jesus does. -[4436.78 --> 4438.02] Or God does rather. -[4438.26 --> 4439.46] Is through his son Jesus. -[4440.56 --> 4442.76] Who is the fulfillment of Moses. -[4443.18 --> 4444.28] And the prophets. -[4444.28 --> 4448.14] And today we have the life. -[4448.24 --> 4449.82] And the stories of Jesus. -[4451.32 --> 4453.46] We know he's the resurrected one. -[4454.46 --> 4455.82] We have his spirit. -[4457.06 --> 4459.64] We have the testimony of the church of Christ. -[4459.64 --> 4461.54] Over these past 20 centuries. -[4461.84 --> 4463.46] All of its ups and downs. -[4463.56 --> 4464.40] And its sufferings. -[4464.50 --> 4465.24] But the church. -[4465.62 --> 4467.92] Has continued to be sustained. -[4467.92 --> 4470.82] What more do we need. -[4471.38 --> 4472.84] To stir our soul. -[4473.88 --> 4475.46] Than the message. -[4475.98 --> 4476.74] Of Jesus. -[4478.04 --> 4479.16] And who he is. -[4479.34 --> 4481.34] As a fulfillment of God. -[4482.94 --> 4485.34] If that message of the gospel. -[4485.70 --> 4486.86] Will not soften. -[4486.86 --> 4488.48] Our hearts. -[4488.70 --> 4491.10] No angel visitation. -[4491.10 --> 4492.68] Or family member. -[4492.80 --> 4494.74] Coming back from the dead. -[4495.72 --> 4497.66] Will cause us to repent. -[4499.16 --> 4501.66] And that's why the best thing we can do. -[4501.82 --> 4502.72] For our family. -[4503.58 --> 4504.88] If we want them. -[4504.96 --> 4505.76] Like this man. -[4505.90 --> 4506.80] To get to heaven. -[4507.72 --> 4509.22] Is to share with them. -[4509.54 --> 4511.02] The word of God. -[4511.86 --> 4513.00] In both word. -[4513.82 --> 4515.38] And deed. -[4515.38 --> 4518.14] That's why. -[4519.02 --> 4520.74] It's so valuable. -[4521.02 --> 4522.52] That we teach children. -[4522.68 --> 4523.42] The stories. -[4523.56 --> 4524.46] Of the scriptures. -[4525.78 --> 4527.20] And in the process. -[4527.92 --> 4529.78] Make the story of God. -[4529.90 --> 4530.62] And who he is. -[4530.74 --> 4531.84] Come alive for them. -[4531.88 --> 4532.62] As it is. -[4533.06 --> 4533.70] We trust. -[4534.44 --> 4535.14] For us. -[4537.86 --> 4538.70] I'm told. -[4538.82 --> 4539.94] I don't know much about him. -[4540.94 --> 4542.54] That it was stories like that. -[4542.62 --> 4543.70] That changed the life. -[4543.70 --> 4545.14] Of Dr. Albert. -[4545.38 --> 4546.06] Schweitzer. -[4546.20 --> 4547.14] He was a very. -[4547.74 --> 4548.94] Rich man. -[4550.76 --> 4551.62] Enjoying the. -[4552.12 --> 4552.56] Lucrative. -[4553.08 --> 4553.56] Academic. -[4553.90 --> 4554.22] World. -[4554.56 --> 4555.04] Of Europe. -[4555.26 --> 4556.52] And he went to Africa. -[4557.60 --> 4558.28] To care. -[4558.82 --> 4559.74] For the poor. -[4560.04 --> 4561.78] Who he came to see. -[4562.90 --> 4564.12] Were the Lazarus. -[4564.46 --> 4565.36] At his gate. -[4567.16 --> 4568.96] The word of God can do that. -[4569.30 --> 4570.24] As it did to him. -[4571.90 --> 4572.52] But does that mean. -[4572.52 --> 4573.72] We need to go to Africa. -[4574.02 --> 4574.58] It might. -[4575.38 --> 4577.50] But what it does mean. -[4577.64 --> 4578.00] Is that. -[4578.84 --> 4579.96] We're to listen. -[4580.06 --> 4581.14] As best we can. -[4581.28 --> 4582.10] For the voice. -[4582.44 --> 4583.54] Of the master. -[4584.44 --> 4585.70] Who's always eager. -[4586.14 --> 4586.64] To help. -[4587.14 --> 4587.72] The poor. -[4589.32 --> 4590.26] And as. -[4590.52 --> 4590.64] Is. -[4590.72 --> 4591.06] Is. -[4591.26 --> 4591.46] Pray. -[4591.62 --> 4591.78] That. -[4592.18 --> 4592.38] You know. -[4592.38 --> 4592.52] What. -[4593.04 --> 4594.02] It's not always. -[4594.02 --> 4595.22] It's complicated. -[4595.22 --> 4596.34] Helping the poor. -[4596.34 --> 4596.74] Today. -[4596.90 --> 4597.92] Who are the poor. -[4598.96 --> 4599.88] Among us. -[4601.20 --> 4601.72] Particularly. -[4601.72 --> 4602.98] In North America. -[4603.64 --> 4604.32] It is as. -[4605.06 --> 4606.54] As Jesus saying. -[4606.70 --> 4607.76] Blessed are the poor. -[4608.26 --> 4608.96] In spirit. -[4611.02 --> 4612.38] Many are filled. -[4612.38 --> 4613.88] With material things. -[4615.28 --> 4616.56] But they're searching. -[4616.56 --> 4617.32] And lost. -[4617.32 --> 4618.80] They're very poor. -[4618.80 --> 4620.50] In here. -[4622.56 --> 4623.80] Let me conclude. -[4624.26 --> 4625.08] By asking. -[4625.46 --> 4626.08] What we did. -[4626.18 --> 4626.88] At the beginning. -[4628.56 --> 4629.68] What do you think. -[4629.76 --> 4630.32] Happens. -[4630.72 --> 4631.66] When you die. -[4633.44 --> 4634.50] Do you believe. -[4634.50 --> 4634.98] In life. -[4634.98 --> 4635.64] After death. -[4637.02 --> 4637.96] In heaven. -[4639.70 --> 4640.78] And in hell. -[4640.78 --> 4640.90] Well. -[4641.90 --> 4643.28] And do you think. -[4643.72 --> 4644.70] That how we live. -[4644.78 --> 4645.40] In this life. -[4645.48 --> 4646.20] Actually makes. -[4646.36 --> 4646.84] Difference. -[4647.56 --> 4648.02] For the one. -[4648.10 --> 4648.44] To come. -[4651.16 --> 4652.28] The poorest. -[4652.50 --> 4652.94] Person. -[4653.14 --> 4653.74] Is the one. -[4653.92 --> 4654.92] Who does not know. -[4655.04 --> 4655.52] God. -[4656.08 --> 4656.82] And Jesus. -[4657.64 --> 4658.76] Whom he has sent. -[4661.18 --> 4662.50] It does a person. -[4662.62 --> 4663.22] Little good. -[4663.42 --> 4663.94] To live. -[4664.02 --> 4664.68] And die. -[4665.78 --> 4666.80] Well fed. -[4668.38 --> 4669.40] The person. -[4669.56 --> 4670.24] Best off. -[4670.24 --> 4670.94] Is the one. -[4670.94 --> 4671.80] Whose heart. -[4673.00 --> 4674.40] Has been shaped. -[4674.80 --> 4675.48] Softened. -[4675.62 --> 4676.28] Redeemed. -[4677.28 --> 4677.96] By the. -[4678.22 --> 4678.96] Loving heart. -[4679.02 --> 4679.56] Of God. -[4681.52 --> 4682.98] But loveless. -[4684.10 --> 4685.40] Hard hearted. -[4685.82 --> 4686.30] Folk. -[4687.48 --> 4688.76] Have no future. -[4689.34 --> 4689.94] With God. -[4691.52 --> 4692.96] It is the pious. -[4693.88 --> 4694.50] Loving. -[4696.46 --> 4697.52] Soft hearted. -[4698.52 --> 4699.56] Yet firm. -[4699.56 --> 4700.16] Hearts. -[4701.16 --> 4702.24] Able to repent. -[4702.24 --> 4702.86] Of sin. -[4704.74 --> 4705.78] Seek Christ. -[4707.28 --> 4708.68] And then serve others. -[4708.94 --> 4709.90] That are rewarded. -[4709.90 --> 4710.66] With the gift. -[4711.42 --> 4712.52] Of eternal life. -[4714.72 --> 4716.14] Jesus is the way. -[4717.38 --> 4718.06] And the way. -[4718.06 --> 4718.86] We live. -[4718.86 --> 4719.98] In this life. -[4720.12 --> 4720.82] Either with. -[4720.82 --> 4721.98] Or without him. -[4721.98 --> 4722.98] Will determine. -[4722.98 --> 4723.78] Will determine. -[4723.78 --> 4724.58] What happens. -[4724.58 --> 4725.88] When we die. -[4727.46 --> 4728.80] Pray with me. -[4730.26 --> 4731.04] Oh Lord Jesus. -[4731.04 --> 4731.72] Thank you. -[4731.86 --> 4732.48] For coming. -[4733.76 --> 4734.86] For calling us. -[4736.86 --> 4738.02] This story. -[4738.02 --> 4738.80] Leaves us. -[4738.80 --> 4739.94] With sometimes. -[4739.94 --> 4740.94] A mixture. -[4740.94 --> 4742.30] Of feelings. -[4742.30 --> 4742.96] Because. -[4742.96 --> 4745.18] We can find. -[4745.18 --> 4745.20] We can find. -[4745.20 --> 4745.80] Ourselves. -[4745.80 --> 4747.00] In the shoes. -[4747.00 --> 4748.32] Of that wealthy person. -[4748.56 --> 4748.72] We. -[4748.96 --> 4749.76] We know. -[4749.76 --> 4750.78] That we've walked. -[4751.00 --> 4751.82] And driven by. -[4751.96 --> 4752.32] People. -[4752.48 --> 4753.26] That needed help. -[4755.98 --> 4756.76] Help us. -[4756.76 --> 4757.18] To see. -[4757.18 --> 4757.78] Lord Jesus. -[4757.78 --> 4758.78] That first of all. -[4759.34 --> 4760.56] We need help. -[4761.14 --> 4762.30] I need help. -[4763.30 --> 4764.66] We need you. -[4764.66 --> 4767.62] And as you fill us. -[4767.62 --> 4768.72] With your spirit. -[4769.72 --> 4770.90] With the richness. -[4770.90 --> 4771.72] Of yourself. -[4773.46 --> 4774.96] You by your spirit. -[4774.96 --> 4775.92] Equip us. -[4776.40 --> 4777.06] To share. -[4777.64 --> 4778.96] All our riches. -[4779.90 --> 4780.84] Who we are. -[4781.02 --> 4782.64] And what we have. -[4783.74 --> 4784.82] With others. -[4787.02 --> 4788.58] Continue to soften. -[4788.76 --> 4789.34] Our hearts. -[4790.58 --> 4791.70] Help us to see. -[4792.40 --> 4793.26] What you see. -[4793.62 --> 4794.52] In this world. -[4794.66 --> 4797.06] And to respond. -[4797.96 --> 4799.06] As you would have us. -[4799.16 --> 4799.76] Respond. -[4800.64 --> 4801.70] To whatever it is. -[4801.88 --> 4803.28] You place around us. -[4804.62 --> 4805.14] And so. -[4805.28 --> 4806.00] May your kingdom. -[4806.28 --> 4807.36] Continue to come. -[4808.58 --> 4809.86] And your will be done. -[4810.26 --> 4810.96] Through us. -[4811.84 --> 4812.70] On this earth. -[4813.16 --> 4814.00] Until we come. -[4814.12 --> 4815.00] To be with you. -[4815.92 --> 4816.74] In eternity. -[4817.38 --> 4818.34] In Jesus name. -[4818.42 --> 4818.86] We pray. -[4819.46 --> 4819.84] Amen. -[4825.50 --> 4826.62] Please stand with us. -[4826.62 --> 4827.28] As we sing. -[4827.38 --> 4828.16] Take my life. -[4828.32 --> 4829.00] And let it be. -[4829.00 --> 4829.30] Take my life. -[4829.30 --> 4829.56] And let it be. -[4829.56 --> 4830.00] Take my life. -[4830.00 --> 4830.20] And let it be. -[4830.20 --> 4831.00] Take my life. -[4831.00 --> 4831.20] And let it be. -[4831.20 --> 4836.90] Take my life. -[4836.90 --> 4839.74] And let it be. -[4839.74 --> 4840.92] Take my life. -[4840.92 --> 4843.88] And let it be. -[4843.88 --> 4854.22] Take my life. -[4854.22 --> 4855.86] And let it be. -[4855.86 --> 4858.00] And let it be. -[4858.00 --> 4863.84] consecrated Lord to thee. -[4863.84 --> 4869.68] Take my moments and my days. -[4869.68 --> 4875.46] Let them flow in endless praise. -[4875.46 --> 4881.80] Let them flow in endless praise. -[4881.80 --> 4883.80] Take my life. -[4883.80 --> 4884.80] Take my life. -[4884.80 --> 4889.04] Take my silver and my gold. -[4889.04 --> 4894.40] Not a might would I withhold. -[4894.40 --> 4900.50] Take my intellect and use. -[4900.50 --> 4906.42] Every power as thou shalt choose. -[4906.42 --> 4913.06] Every power as thou shalt choose. -[4913.06 --> 4920.28] Take my will and make it thine. -[4920.28 --> 4926.14] It shall be no longer mine. -[4926.14 --> 4928.92] Take my heart. -[4928.92 --> 4932.16] It is thine own. -[4932.16 --> 4937.60] It shall be thy royal throne. -[4937.60 --> 4944.14] It shall be thy royal throne. -[4945.82 --> 4952.58] Take my love, my Lord, I pour. -[4952.58 --> 4953.58] Thou, I pour. -[4953.58 --> 4958.58] Let thy feet its treasure store. -[4958.58 --> 4965.04] Take myself and I will be. -[4965.04 --> 4971.06] Ever only all for thee. -[4971.06 --> 4977.54] Ever only all for thee. -[4977.54 --> 4991.84] Ever only all for thee. -[4991.84 --> 4995.88] Ever only all for thee. -[4995.88 --> 4997.54] Thank you for leading us in worship. -[5000.04 --> 5004.12] The words, particularly in the first number of songs, -[5004.12 --> 5008.42] were very helpful in preparing my heart for bringing the word. -[5008.42 --> 5009.80] So thank you for that. -[5009.80 --> 5012.16] It's good to worship together. -[5012.16 --> 5016.20] It's good to be reminded of who our Lord Jesus is. -[5016.20 --> 5020.58] And as I was standing after the message thinking, -[5020.58 --> 5027.96] wow, I hope you heard not just the cutting edge of the word, -[5028.10 --> 5033.44] but that you also heard from Jesus this call to come to him, -[5033.44 --> 5034.68] who is life. -[5035.94 --> 5040.22] I trust that for most of us, you walk with the Lord Jesus. -[5041.10 --> 5045.80] You have this assurance that you're headed to the right place. -[5046.52 --> 5050.46] If you're not, get right with God. -[5050.60 --> 5051.32] Find someone. -[5052.74 --> 5053.74] Make it right. -[5054.80 --> 5056.10] Know who Christ is. -[5056.86 --> 5058.66] Because he wants to be with you. -[5059.44 --> 5060.84] He wants to bless you. -[5060.84 --> 5063.24] He wants to walk with you. -[5064.76 --> 5068.06] So go into this day, this week, whatever it is that brings, -[5068.74 --> 5071.72] knowing that that's who Christ is, the one who walks with you. -[5072.28 --> 5073.96] And the Lord bless you and keep you. -[5074.38 --> 5077.48] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[5077.84 --> 5080.22] The Lord turn his face right in your direction -[5080.22 --> 5083.58] and give you his grace, his joy, and his peace, -[5084.14 --> 5085.60] to which we God's people say, -[5085.60 --> 5086.64] Amen. -[5086.64 --> 5086.80] Amen. -[5087.62 --> 5088.76] feel free from you and see you. -[5088.76 --> 5088.86] Let's pray now. -[5089.34 --> 5091.28] guitar solo -[5091.28 --> 5121.26] guitar solo -[5121.28 --> 5151.26] guitar solo -[5151.28 --> 5181.26] guitar solo -[5181.28 --> 5211.26] guitar solo -[5211.26 --> 5241.24] guitar solo -[5241.24 --> 5243.24] You assure me -[5243.86 --> 5246.74] of eternal life -[5246.74 --> 5249.90] and make me willing and ready -[5249.90 --> 5255.20] Even when I can't see my way through -[5255.20 --> 5261.74] From now on to always live for you -[5261.74 --> 5270.08] I am not my own -[5270.08 --> 5272.74] But belong -[5272.74 --> 5275.74] Body and soul -[5275.74 --> 5278.74] In my life -[5278.74 --> 5280.74] And in death -[5280.74 --> 5286.74] And in death -[5286.74 --> 5288.74] And in death -[5288.74 --> 5290.74] And in death -[5290.74 --> 5292.74] I am not my own -[5292.74 --> 5298.74] I am not my own -[5298.74 --> 5300.74] But belong -[5300.74 --> 5301.74] Body and soul -[5301.74 --> 5304.74] In my life -[5304.74 --> 5308.74] And in death -[5308.74 --> 5309.74] To you, Lord -[5309.74 --> 5310.74] To you, Lord -[5310.74 --> 5312.74] To you, Lord -[5312.74 --> 5316.74] Christ my Lord -[5316.74 --> 5330.74] I am not my own -[5330.74 --> 5337.74] I am not my own -[5337.74 --> 5341.04] Christ our Lord -[5367.74 --> 5397.72] guitar solo -[5397.74 --> 5427.72] guitar solo -[5427.74 --> 5457.72] guitar solo diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 15 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 15 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 690829757bb33881c70b736ef574c42863554b02..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 15 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,41 +0,0 @@ -• Existence of two separate creation accounts in Genesis -• Distinctions between the "first story" (Genesis 1:1-2:3) and the "second story" (Genesis 2:4-25) -• Characteristics of the first story, including its impersonal nature and use of the title "Elohim" -• Differences in purpose and tone between the two creation accounts -• The first story in Genesis focuses on God's creation of the world and humanity, while the second story emphasizes human relationships. -• Key differences between the two stories include God's actions on days three and six, as well as the order of creation. -• The writer acknowledges the potential difficulties with Adam naming all living creatures in 24 hours, but suggests this is a matter of interpretation. -• Genesis was written for an ancient audience and its cultural context should be taken into account when understanding its message. -• Moses, who wrote the first five books of the Bible, would have been familiar with Egyptian creation stories and incorporated elements from other cultures to create his own narrative. -• Genesis 1 has Egyptian creation story similarities -• Genesis 2 has Babylonian creation story similarities -• Polemical use of language to replace false ideas with God's word -• Genesis teaches that God is wholly other, eternal, and creator of all -• Contrast between Genesis and other ancient creation stories on God's nature and origins -• God is a creator and sustainer of all things. -• The Egyptian and Babylonian creation stories have flaws, portraying creation as accidental or purposeless. -• In contrast, God's creation story in Genesis emphasizes intentionality, beauty, and care. -• God created humans in his image, unlike the Egyptian and Babylonian gods who viewed humans as inferior or an afterthought. -• The concept of human dominion over earth in Genesis -• Comparison to other creation stories where humans are not supposed to exist or have lesser roles -• God's cultural mandate for humans as stated in Genesis -• The consequences of disobeying God, including death -• Distinction between Genesis and other creation stories as a polemic -• Characteristics of the one true God in contrast to other gods -• Genesis 1 and 2 describe two creation stories that counter the lies told about God -• The first story describes a beautiful, orderly creation by God's word -• The second story tells of Adam and Eve in paradise, made to care for the earth and rule with God -• These themes continue throughout the Old Testament, with God ruling in power and love -• Jesus is the culmination of these stories, as he rules in God's name and redeems the world -• Colossians 1 describes Jesus as the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation, through whom all things were created -• The new creation in Christ and being made new through faith -• Resurrection with Christ in the new creation -• Jesus as creator of all things, including humans -• Purpose of Genesis 1 and 2: to show who created the universe (Yahweh Elohim) -• Importance of worshiping God throughout the week -• Singing hymns of praise, specifically "God of Wonders" -• Prayer and blessings from God -• Praise to God through music, nations, and creation -• Worship of Jesus as the risen and exalted son -• Encouragement to praise God with heart and voice in this generation -• Expression of gratitude to God for salvation and light \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 15 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 15 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 08178383b6993f8b519e1398defca8c85231029b..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 15 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,724 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 19.74] you -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 242.00] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[419.98 --> 449.96] Thank you. -[449.96 --> 479.94] Thank you. -[479.96 --> 509.94] Thank you. -[509.94 --> 539.92] Thank you. -[539.94 --> 569.92] Thank you. -[569.92 --> 599.90] Thank you. -[599.90 --> 629.88] Thank you. -[629.90 --> 659.88] Thank you. -[659.90 --> 689.88] Thank you. -[689.88 --> 719.86] Thank you. -[719.88 --> 749.86] Thank you. -[749.86 --> 779.84] Thank you. -[779.84 --> 809.82] Thank you. -[809.84 --> 839.82] Thank you. -[839.82 --> 869.80] Thank you. -[869.82 --> 899.80] Thank you. -[899.82 --> 929.80] Thank you. -[929.80 --> 959.78] Thank you. -[959.80 --> 989.78] Thank you. -[989.78 --> 1019.76] Thank you. -[1019.78 --> 1049.76] Thank you. -[1049.78 --> 1079.76] Thank you. -[1079.78 --> 1109.76] Thank you. -[1109.78 --> 1139.76] Thank you. -[1139.76 --> 1169.74] Thank you. -[1169.74 --> 1199.72] Thank you. -[1199.74 --> 1229.72] Thank you. -[1229.74 --> 1259.72] Thank you. -[1259.74 --> 1289.72] Thank you. -[1289.72 --> 1319.70] Thank you. -[1319.72 --> 1349.70] Thank you. -[1349.72 --> 1379.70] Thank you. -[1379.72 --> 1409.70] Thank you. -[1409.72 --> 1439.70] Thank you. -[1439.70 --> 1469.68] Thank you. -[1469.70 --> 1499.68] Thank you. -[1499.70 --> 1529.68] Thank you. -[1529.70 --> 1559.68] Thank you. -[1559.70 --> 1589.68] Thank you. -[1589.70 --> 1619.68] Thank you. -[1619.70 --> 1649.68] Thank you. -[1649.68 --> 1679.66] Thank you. -[1679.66 --> 1709.64] Thank you. -[1709.66 --> 1739.66] Thank you. -[1739.66 --> 1769.64] Thank you. -[1769.66 --> 1799.64] Good morning. -[1799.64 --> 1829.64] Thank you. -[1829.64 --> 1859.62] Thank you. -[1859.62 --> 1889.62] Thank you. -[1889.62 --> 1919.60] Thank you. -[1919.60 --> 1949.58] Thank you. -[1949.60 --> 1979.58] Thank you. -[1979.60 --> 2009.58] Thank you. -[2009.60 --> 2039.58] Thank you. -[2039.58 --> 2069.56] Thank you. -[2069.58 --> 2099.56] I believe. -[2099.58 --> 2129.56] I believe. -[2129.58 --> 2159.56] Good morning. -[2159.56 --> 2189.54] Thank you. -[2189.56 --> 2219.54] I was told you. -[2219.54 --> 2249.54] Thank you. -[2249.54 --> 2279.54] Thank you. -[2279.54 --> 2309.52] Thank you. -[2309.52 --> 2339.50] Thank you. -[2339.50 --> 2369.50] Thank you. -[2369.50 --> 2399.48] Thank you. -[2399.48 --> 2429.48] Thank you. -[2429.48 --> 2459.48] Thank you. -[2459.48 --> 2489.48] Thank you. -[2489.48 --> 2519.46] Thank you. -[2519.48 --> 2549.48] Hello. -[2549.48 --> 2579.48] Thank you. -[2579.48 --> 2609.48] Thank you. -[2609.48 --> 2639.48] Thank you. -[2639.48 --> 2669.48] Thank you. -[2669.48 --> 2699.46] Thank you. -[2699.46 --> 2729.46] Thank you. -[2729.46 --> 2759.46] Thank you. -[2759.46 --> 2789.46] Thank you. -[2789.46 --> 2790.46] Thank you. -[2819.46 --> 2820.46] I'll answer you. -[2849.46 --> 2850.46] Okay. -[2879.46 --> 2909.46] Thank you. -[2909.46 --> 2910.46] Thank you. -[2939.46 --> 2969.46] Thank you. -[2969.46 --> 2999.46] Thank you. -[2999.46 --> 3029.46] -[3029.46 --> 3059.46] Thank you. -[3059.46 --> 3089.46] -[3089.46 --> 3090.46] Thank you. -[3090.46 --> 3091.46] Thank you. -[3091.46 --> 3092.46] Okay. -[3092.46 --> 3093.46] Okay. -[3093.46 --> 3094.46] Okay. -[3094.46 --> 3095.46] esse chiff astonhave 62, E size. -[3095.46 --> 3105.50] were both naked, and they felt no shame. Okay. The first question was, are there two separate -[3105.50 --> 3112.42] creation accounts? In Genesis, the first story being Genesis 1 to 2 verse 3, and Genesis 2 verses -[3112.42 --> 3120.52] 4 to 25. The answer to this question is simply yes. But for future convenience, I'm going to -[3120.52 --> 3123.50] refer to the first story as the first story, and the second story as the second story, because -[3123.50 --> 3130.64] saying that whole thing is a lot for convenience. So, okay. When we read the stories, though, there -[3130.64 --> 3135.88] are ways you can tell they're different and written for different purposes. There are four things. For -[3135.88 --> 3142.06] the first example, the first story only describes God with the name God, Elohim, meaning God in English. -[3142.48 --> 3148.42] This is a title. It's not a name. That's because the first story is not personal. The first story is -[3148.42 --> 3155.46] about God making the earth. The second story uses his personal name, Yahweh Elohim, meaning the Lord -[3155.46 --> 3160.44] God. This is the same name God gives to Moses at the burning bush as his covenant name. -[3162.46 --> 3166.50] Second thing is, in the first story, God is described as creating the whole habitable world -[3166.50 --> 3171.42] out of nothing. It is all structured and was described as a seven-day week. He creates for -[3171.42 --> 3177.38] six, rests on the seventh, and each day starts with, and God said, and ends with the day of the week. -[3179.46 --> 3184.46] The third thing is that the first story is theocentric, meaning it's God-centered. God -[3184.46 --> 3190.20] existed before all. God created all. Humanity is made in God's image. God rests. It's about God's -[3190.20 --> 3196.86] power, God's plan, and God's purpose. The second story is anthropocentric. Though it has all those -[3196.86 --> 3204.00] things that the first story has, it's more focused on humanity, what Adam and Eve do, who they are. -[3204.34 --> 3208.46] In the second story, they have names, whereas in the first story, they're just man and woman. -[3210.38 --> 3215.00] The last thing is that in Genesis chapter 1, it's a whole picture without much detail, -[3215.76 --> 3220.82] and in Genesis 2, it's very detailed about one specific creation that God has a relationship with. -[3220.82 --> 3227.16] Now, though those differences are important, I think the writer of this question was thinking -[3227.16 --> 3233.74] about some other differences, specifically where the two stories don't line up. They seemingly don't -[3233.74 --> 3240.32] agree on some of the details. There are two ways that they don't agree. First is that in Genesis 1, -[3240.50 --> 3247.42] God makes all the plant life on day three, and all the humans on day six, and it specifies that the -[3247.42 --> 3252.56] plants were spoken into being. They came out of the ground. God confirms it with his blessing, -[3253.26 --> 3260.74] and then the third day ends, and then God makes man on day six. But in Genesis 2, God makes Adam, -[3260.86 --> 3268.54] and it specifies that the plants had not sprung up yet. Only after making Adam does God specify making -[3268.54 --> 3277.40] the plants in chapter 2. This is a problem because the order's wrong. The second problem is that in -[3277.40 --> 3283.32] Genesis 1, God makes both man and woman on day six, as well as all the animals. In Genesis 2, -[3283.44 --> 3290.16] God makes Adam, then puts him in the garden, then gets him to name every creature, and then when none -[3290.16 --> 3300.08] of them are seen as a helper, God makes Eve. Now, why is this a problem? Well, as of now, there are 1.2 -[3300.08 --> 3306.58] million species on planet Earth, with seven million more yet to be discovered. And Adam is stated to -[3306.58 --> 3313.30] have named every living creature. Now, in chapter 2, verse 19, it specifies birds of the sky and beasts -[3313.30 --> 3321.04] of the field, but even if you do the reduction, it's 16,000 species and more still yet to be discovered. -[3322.32 --> 3328.00] Now, for a man who didn't exist five minutes ago, who just learned how to talk and is experiencing the -[3328.00 --> 3335.18] whole world for the first time, even for us, that's quite the feat in 24 hours. -[3336.76 --> 3340.82] Now, if this idea of Genesis 1 and 2 being two stories makes you feel uncomfortable, -[3341.56 --> 3348.30] that's okay. If it raises questions in you, that's good. That's what this sermon series is about. -[3349.38 --> 3352.16] The church is here as a place where you can grow in your understanding of the Word, -[3352.16 --> 3358.86] ask questions, continue to discuss these questions in good faith and love. That's discipleship. -[3360.04 --> 3365.64] We have to acknowledge what Scripture is, what the story's purpose is, and what its purpose isn't. -[3366.40 --> 3371.80] Genesis 1 and 2 were written in a very specific time period to a very specific culture, -[3372.34 --> 3377.26] and it's different from us today. We don't write in the styles that they write. -[3377.26 --> 3381.98] And since we were not the ones Genesis was written to, though it was written for us, -[3382.44 --> 3387.46] we have to learn the way it was written. We have to learn about the people it was written to and -[3387.46 --> 3393.98] their history and the place that they would be in to receive such a story. As we know, these people -[3393.98 --> 3400.00] that received the story are the Israelites. They received this story 3,000 years ago. The Israelites -[3400.00 --> 3404.76] were all descended from the well-known man Abraham. Abraham had a son named Isaac, who had a son named Jacob, -[3404.76 --> 3413.02] who had 12 sons, and then who lived in Egypt for 400 years as slaves. Abraham was from a city called Ur, -[3413.98 --> 3419.40] which in this time would have been part of the old Sumerian Empire. In Sumer, the religious capital -[3419.40 --> 3423.90] was the famed city Babylon. This is the same city that would be led by Nebuchadnezzar, who would destroy -[3423.90 --> 3432.94] Israel and bring them into exile. This was Abraham's world. He was bathed in the Babylonian creation -[3432.94 --> 3439.02] stories. Abraham and Sarah and all his servants were raised with it. That story is called the Enuma -[3439.02 --> 3445.18] Elish, the one mentioned in the question. The Israelites themselves, after being slaves for 400 -[3445.18 --> 3449.70] years, would start to get to know the stories of their captors. The Israelites would have known the -[3449.70 --> 3455.44] Egyptian creation stories well, but that's just not it. Moses, the one who wrote the first five books -[3455.44 --> 3460.88] of the Bible, the one that God got to lead the Israelites and free them from Egypt, he was raised as an -[3460.88 --> 3465.76] Egyptian royal family member. He would have learned their culture, their philosophy, and their religion -[3465.76 --> 3471.64] and known it very well for most of his life. This is the setting where Israel receives the biblical creation -[3471.64 --> 3478.00] story. Right after they're freed from slavery, they experience the tent plagues, the pillar of fire, and the -[3478.00 --> 3484.40] splitting of the Red Sea. This is where they receive it. The Israelites are cultural descendants of Babylon -[3484.40 --> 3491.12] Babylon and Egypt. So when we find similarities in their creation stories, we shouldn't find this -[3491.12 --> 3498.60] surprising. And this is because Genesis, among the many things that it is, it is written as a polemic. -[3499.60 --> 3506.56] A polemic is a writing style used to undermine or attack religious or political beliefs. Genesis 1 and 2 -[3506.56 --> 3510.82] are a direct attack on the beliefs and understandings that have been drilled into the Israelite head -[3510.82 --> 3517.60] for 400 years. God is trying to unlearn the Israelites all the horrible things that they've learned and -[3517.60 --> 3523.24] replace them, replace all the wrong and false ideas the culture has embedded in them and give them his -[3523.24 --> 3529.74] word instead. Part of the way a polemic does this is by using the language of the thing it's attacking. -[3531.10 --> 3540.18] So here we dive deep into some history stuff, so get ready. For example, Genesis 1 is very Egyptian in style. -[3540.82 --> 3545.24] It is strikingly similar to the creation story known as the Ogdod, which reads like this. -[3547.74 --> 3553.12] The cosmos was undifferentiated formlessness. Darkness was on the surface of the primordial watery deep. -[3553.78 --> 3556.16] The divine wind of a tomb was over the primeval waters. -[3557.94 --> 3563.30] Now, way less poetic than the biblical story, but you can notice the similarities. -[3564.68 --> 3568.58] Well, it doesn't stop there. Another one of the Egyptian creation stories known as the Memphis story -[3568.58 --> 3571.36] follows the same order of creation as Genesis 1. -[3572.50 --> 3574.24] There is an in-the-beginning phrase, -[3575.00 --> 3576.96] then a lifeless, chaotic, watery ocean. -[3577.80 --> 3579.64] A tomb, the divine wind, is over the deep. -[3580.46 --> 3582.16] Pata speaks and light appears. -[3583.10 --> 3585.06] Waters are separated and the sky is created. -[3585.56 --> 3587.84] The dry ground appears, being separated from the waters. -[3588.56 --> 3591.24] The sun is made, this time in the image of Ra, -[3591.44 --> 3592.36] and set to rule the day. -[3592.36 --> 3596.22] The earth sprouts vegetation, animals, fish, birds, and reptiles. -[3596.94 --> 3599.02] The idols are made in the image of the gods, -[3599.40 --> 3601.30] and Pata rests in satisfaction of his creation. -[3604.90 --> 3605.72] Uncanny, isn't it? -[3606.74 --> 3609.70] Now, jumping to Genesis 2, which is much more Babylonian in style. -[3610.20 --> 3612.42] I know, we're getting really in the weeds right here, -[3612.68 --> 3614.02] but it's necessary. -[3614.84 --> 3617.48] So, the Babylonian story goes like this. -[3617.82 --> 3619.88] The Enumalish, the one I told you you would know about. -[3619.88 --> 3622.42] When the heavens above did not exist, -[3622.48 --> 3623.98] and the earth beneath had not come into being, -[3624.50 --> 3627.08] there was Apsu, the first in order, their begetter, -[3627.30 --> 3629.12] and Demiurge Tiamat, who gave birth to them all. -[3629.46 --> 3630.80] They had mingled their waters together -[3630.80 --> 3632.32] before Meadowland had coalesced, -[3632.34 --> 3634.48] and Reedbed was yet to be found. -[3635.20 --> 3636.96] When not one of the gods had been formed -[3636.96 --> 3637.84] or had come into being, -[3638.26 --> 3639.68] when no destinies had been decreed, -[3639.80 --> 3641.10] the gods were created within them. -[3641.40 --> 3644.58] Lahamu and Lahamu were formed and came into being. -[3645.24 --> 3647.96] This sounds very similar to Genesis 2, 5-7. -[3647.96 --> 3651.58] When no bush of the field was yet in the land, -[3651.62 --> 3653.64] and no small plant of the field had yet sprung up. -[3654.46 --> 3656.38] The Lord God had not caused it to rain on the land, -[3656.80 --> 3658.24] and there was no man to work the ground. -[3658.52 --> 3659.94] And a mist was going up from the land -[3659.94 --> 3662.24] that was watering the whole face of the ground. -[3662.68 --> 3664.00] Then the Lord God formed the man -[3664.00 --> 3664.84] from the dust of the ground -[3664.84 --> 3666.54] and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life. -[3667.46 --> 3668.56] The man became a living creature. -[3670.08 --> 3672.58] Now, if you're like me, you're a history nut, -[3673.22 --> 3675.94] then you would love the similarities in this. -[3675.94 --> 3677.32] They're very cool. -[3677.80 --> 3679.44] But this is a polemic, -[3679.54 --> 3681.02] so it's in the differences that matter. -[3682.20 --> 3683.26] It's in the differences that we see -[3683.26 --> 3685.10] what Genesis is teaching us about God -[3685.10 --> 3686.82] and mankind and the creation -[3686.82 --> 3688.02] and our relationship with God, -[3688.74 --> 3690.44] our relationship with each other and the world. -[3691.28 --> 3693.56] So if you checked out before the history section, -[3693.80 --> 3695.78] because you get bored with this stuff, -[3696.00 --> 3697.06] now's the time to jump back in -[3697.06 --> 3697.74] because here's the lesson. -[3699.64 --> 3702.02] There are six things that Genesis is teaching us -[3702.02 --> 3702.72] as a polemic. -[3702.72 --> 3705.86] The first is that God is wholly other, -[3706.58 --> 3708.12] eternal, and the creator of all. -[3709.18 --> 3710.44] In the Egyptian story, -[3711.52 --> 3713.30] the God named a tomb creates himself -[3713.30 --> 3714.34] from the primordial deep. -[3715.20 --> 3717.18] But in Genesis, God doesn't have a beginning. -[3717.98 --> 3719.58] The very first verse of the Bible -[3719.58 --> 3721.70] assumes that God has always existed. -[3722.42 --> 3723.70] In the beginning, God. -[3724.64 --> 3727.06] Other parts of the scripture state the same. -[3727.32 --> 3728.34] Revelation 1.8, -[3728.72 --> 3730.48] who is, who was, and who is to come. -[3731.12 --> 3733.44] Psalm 90, verse 2, from the beginning. -[3734.40 --> 3735.70] From everlasting to everlasting, -[3735.90 --> 3736.60] you are God. -[3737.28 --> 3738.46] Colossians 1.17, -[3738.96 --> 3740.00] he is before all things, -[3740.04 --> 3741.50] and in him all things hold together. -[3742.42 --> 3743.84] God is wholly other. -[3745.38 --> 3747.06] The second thing is that God created -[3747.06 --> 3748.26] everything that exists, -[3748.62 --> 3750.60] has ever existed or will ever exist. -[3751.26 --> 3753.26] Nothing that exists was not made by him. -[3754.48 --> 3756.80] The Egyptian story has a tomb create the world, -[3756.80 --> 3759.26] but the deep is there before him, -[3759.84 --> 3762.72] and he makes himself from nothing. -[3762.98 --> 3764.14] I don't know how you do that. -[3764.60 --> 3765.84] I don't know who came up with that idea -[3765.84 --> 3766.54] in their story, -[3766.68 --> 3768.70] but in Genesis, -[3768.92 --> 3771.02] God creates everything by simply saying, -[3771.30 --> 3771.86] let there be. -[3772.86 --> 3773.58] And it was so. -[3773.90 --> 3775.14] No effort required. -[3776.14 --> 3776.96] Hebrews 11.3, -[3777.04 --> 3778.32] by faith we understand that the universe -[3778.32 --> 3779.60] was created by the word of God, -[3780.16 --> 3781.98] so that that, what is seen, -[3782.06 --> 3784.50] was not made out of things that are visible. -[3784.50 --> 3786.60] Psalm 33, verse 6, -[3786.74 --> 3787.48] by the word of the Lord, -[3787.58 --> 3788.44] the heavens were made, -[3789.10 --> 3789.96] and by his mouth, -[3790.34 --> 3791.22] by the breath of his mouth, -[3791.34 --> 3792.02] all their hosts. -[3792.84 --> 3794.54] God created everything. -[3796.86 --> 3798.90] Third, when God created the world, -[3799.24 --> 3800.16] he said it was good. -[3801.58 --> 3802.58] When the Egyptian god, -[3802.64 --> 3803.54] a tomb made the world, -[3804.36 --> 3806.04] it was because he needed a place to stand on. -[3807.46 --> 3809.42] When the Babylonian god made the animals, -[3810.12 --> 3811.16] it was because they were hungry. -[3812.32 --> 3813.42] A tomb made humans, -[3813.42 --> 3814.16] by accident, -[3814.26 --> 3814.78] when he cried, -[3814.88 --> 3816.68] and his tears mingled in the dust of the earth. -[3817.46 --> 3819.34] And Marduk made humans for slave labor, -[3819.44 --> 3820.78] so that they didn't have to work anymore. -[3823.00 --> 3825.30] The world of the Egyptians and the Babylonians -[3825.30 --> 3826.82] is tragic, horrifying, -[3827.12 --> 3827.66] purposeless, -[3828.02 --> 3828.80] and evil. -[3829.74 --> 3831.32] But when God makes the world, -[3832.14 --> 3833.36] he makes it with purpose, -[3833.62 --> 3834.18] with meaning, -[3834.44 --> 3834.96] intention, -[3835.60 --> 3835.92] beauty, -[3836.14 --> 3836.68] and care. -[3837.22 --> 3838.90] He makes man with his hands, -[3839.16 --> 3841.32] and breathes his life into them intentionally. -[3841.32 --> 3842.82] Gives them work, -[3842.92 --> 3845.10] so that they can partake in what God's doing on the earth. -[3845.68 --> 3846.74] He makes a garden, -[3846.94 --> 3848.98] puts food in it for the people and the animals. -[3849.46 --> 3851.32] He ends every day with the statement, -[3851.56 --> 3852.38] and it was good, -[3852.74 --> 3854.12] and blesses his creation, -[3854.28 --> 3854.92] and enjoys it, -[3855.02 --> 3855.92] and dwells in it. -[3856.84 --> 3857.98] God said it was good. -[3859.86 --> 3860.80] The fourth thing -[3860.80 --> 3862.90] is that God created man in his image. -[3862.90 --> 3865.16] As stated before, -[3865.28 --> 3867.40] the Egyptian gods accidentally created humans, -[3867.90 --> 3869.38] but the Babylonian gods, -[3869.52 --> 3870.60] after defeating the evil, -[3870.70 --> 3871.06] demonic, -[3871.22 --> 3871.52] tyrant, -[3871.64 --> 3871.86] villain, -[3872.02 --> 3872.40] Kingu, -[3873.48 --> 3875.48] Marduk makes the humans out of his corpse, -[3875.96 --> 3877.20] so that they don't have to labor. -[3879.16 --> 3880.38] Humans are an afterthought. -[3882.02 --> 3883.48] But Yahweh Elohim -[3883.48 --> 3885.92] is cutting deep at these stories, -[3886.04 --> 3888.08] and he says something extremely different. -[3888.92 --> 3890.04] Genesis 1, 27, -[3890.04 --> 3892.18] God created men in his image. -[3892.74 --> 3893.30] In the image of God, -[3893.36 --> 3893.96] he created him. -[3894.04 --> 3894.68] Male and female, -[3894.82 --> 3895.64] he created them. -[3896.32 --> 3897.28] Genesis 2, 7, -[3897.82 --> 3899.86] Then the Lord God formed the man of the dust -[3899.86 --> 3900.38] from the ground -[3900.38 --> 3902.22] and breathed into his nostrils -[3902.22 --> 3903.30] the breath of life. -[3904.74 --> 3905.72] The breath of life there -[3905.72 --> 3906.44] is the same word -[3906.44 --> 3907.38] as the spirit or the wind -[3907.38 --> 3908.22] that's over the deep. -[3909.84 --> 3910.86] Genesis 5, 1, -[3911.00 --> 3912.58] This is the book of the generations of Adam. -[3913.02 --> 3913.54] In this day, -[3913.62 --> 3914.64] when God created man, -[3914.76 --> 3916.40] he made them in the image of God. -[3917.28 --> 3918.22] James 3, 9, -[3918.48 --> 3919.92] With it we bless the Lord our Father -[3919.92 --> 3921.06] and with it we curse men -[3921.06 --> 3922.06] who have been made -[3922.06 --> 3923.40] in the likeness of God. -[3924.00 --> 3925.68] God made men in his image. -[3927.38 --> 3928.08] The fifth thing -[3928.08 --> 3929.38] is that God created us -[3929.38 --> 3930.66] to have dominion over the earth. -[3931.76 --> 3933.04] In the other creation stories, -[3933.18 --> 3933.84] we humans are either -[3933.84 --> 3935.00] not supposed to exist, -[3935.52 --> 3936.38] or they made us -[3936.38 --> 3937.64] just to cook the gods' food -[3937.64 --> 3938.78] and to make them a cool house. -[3940.22 --> 3941.08] But in Genesis, -[3941.74 --> 3943.42] God gives us the cultural mandate -[3943.42 --> 3944.34] that Chris talked about -[3944.34 --> 3945.10] the other week. -[3946.04 --> 3946.80] And God blessed them -[3946.80 --> 3947.60] and God said to them, -[3947.72 --> 3948.64] Be fruitful and multiply -[3948.64 --> 3949.62] and fill the earth -[3949.62 --> 3950.16] and subdue it -[3950.16 --> 3950.84] and have dominion -[3950.84 --> 3952.10] over the fish of the sea -[3952.10 --> 3953.10] and over the birds of the heavens -[3953.10 --> 3954.16] and over every living thing -[3954.16 --> 3954.98] that moves on the ground. -[3956.06 --> 3957.04] Genesis 2, 15, -[3957.16 --> 3958.10] The Lord God took the man -[3958.10 --> 3958.88] and put him in the garden -[3958.88 --> 3960.34] to work it and keep it. -[3961.38 --> 3963.16] God made us to enjoy his creation -[3963.16 --> 3964.82] and to join with him -[3964.82 --> 3966.10] in the work of maintaining it. -[3966.98 --> 3967.70] God created us -[3967.70 --> 3968.88] to have dominion over the earth. -[3970.38 --> 3970.74] Lastly, -[3971.30 --> 3972.18] and most depressingly, -[3972.80 --> 3973.62] disobeying God -[3973.62 --> 3974.80] leads to death. -[3976.04 --> 3977.04] In the other stories, -[3977.16 --> 3977.96] death was just a part -[3977.96 --> 3979.22] of the design -[3979.22 --> 3980.46] or the lack thereof. -[3981.42 --> 3982.06] But in Genesis, -[3982.34 --> 3983.40] God states that death -[3983.40 --> 3984.98] is a result of disobeying him. -[3985.94 --> 3986.38] You shall eat -[3986.38 --> 3987.26] of every tree of the garden, -[3987.78 --> 3988.40] but if the tree -[3988.40 --> 3988.84] of the knowledge -[3988.84 --> 3989.46] of good and evil, -[3989.68 --> 3990.42] you shall not eat, -[3990.50 --> 3991.06] for on that day -[3991.06 --> 3991.70] you shall die. -[3993.28 --> 3994.06] Everything wrong -[3994.06 --> 3994.58] with this world -[3994.58 --> 3995.26] is our fault, -[3995.64 --> 3996.36] not God's. -[3997.66 --> 3998.26] Disobeying God -[3998.26 --> 3998.94] leads to death. -[4000.48 --> 4001.36] Now, don't get me wrong -[4001.36 --> 4002.62] in all that I've said today. -[4003.58 --> 4004.94] These stories are not equal. -[4005.84 --> 4006.46] God isn't just, -[4006.66 --> 4007.94] Genesis isn't just -[4007.94 --> 4008.82] another creation story -[4008.82 --> 4009.90] amongst creation stories. -[4010.28 --> 4011.04] On the contrary, -[4011.50 --> 4012.86] it's God's creation story. -[4013.62 --> 4014.28] As a polemic, -[4014.42 --> 4015.66] Genesis is teaching us -[4015.66 --> 4016.70] and the Israelites -[4016.70 --> 4017.76] about God, -[4018.16 --> 4018.58] ourselves, -[4018.74 --> 4019.44] and our relationship -[4019.44 --> 4019.90] with him. -[4020.92 --> 4021.80] But it was written -[4021.80 --> 4022.50] to the Israelites -[4022.50 --> 4023.52] using the writing styles -[4023.52 --> 4024.38] of their time. -[4025.56 --> 4026.50] God is using the polemic -[4026.50 --> 4027.32] because the differences -[4027.32 --> 4028.12] show how different -[4028.12 --> 4029.60] he is from the other gods. -[4029.60 --> 4031.38] Not just different, -[4031.52 --> 4032.20] but how much greater -[4032.20 --> 4032.76] he is. -[4033.42 --> 4033.80] After all, -[4033.90 --> 4035.16] he's the one true God, -[4035.42 --> 4036.46] the Most High God, -[4036.54 --> 4037.48] the Almighty God, -[4037.86 --> 4038.48] the name above -[4038.48 --> 4039.46] all other names, -[4039.58 --> 4040.28] the Lord of Lords, -[4040.44 --> 4041.12] the King of Kings, -[4041.26 --> 4042.12] the God of Gods. -[4042.68 --> 4043.68] There is no God like him. -[4043.74 --> 4044.60] He has no equal. -[4045.12 --> 4046.20] He has always existed -[4046.20 --> 4047.32] and always will exist. -[4047.96 --> 4048.80] He is omnipotent, -[4048.90 --> 4049.30] omniscient, -[4049.42 --> 4049.92] omnipresent. -[4050.46 --> 4051.12] He is the creator -[4051.12 --> 4052.58] and redeemer of creation. -[4053.22 --> 4053.98] He is Yahweh, -[4054.34 --> 4054.76] Elohim. -[4056.76 --> 4057.62] Genesis 1 and 2 -[4057.62 --> 4058.68] are two creation stories -[4058.68 --> 4059.66] that work together -[4059.66 --> 4061.46] to counter the lies -[4061.46 --> 4062.12] that the Israelites -[4062.12 --> 4063.50] and us were ever told -[4063.50 --> 4064.04] about God. -[4065.36 --> 4066.34] The first story -[4066.34 --> 4067.00] is a beautiful, -[4067.26 --> 4068.10] orderly, poetic, -[4068.62 --> 4069.70] a story about a God -[4069.70 --> 4071.56] so incomprehensibly great -[4071.56 --> 4073.90] that he can create -[4073.90 --> 4074.54] the world -[4074.54 --> 4076.94] by merely saying words. -[4078.44 --> 4078.92] Yet, -[4079.02 --> 4079.52] when he makes -[4079.52 --> 4080.46] his final creation, -[4080.62 --> 4081.10] men and women, -[4081.56 --> 4082.16] he makes them -[4082.16 --> 4083.08] with his hands -[4083.08 --> 4084.46] and designs them -[4084.46 --> 4085.40] after himself. -[4087.22 --> 4088.22] The second story -[4088.22 --> 4089.18] is about Adam and Eve -[4089.18 --> 4090.44] who live in a paradise -[4090.44 --> 4091.88] and are in a perfect relationship -[4091.88 --> 4092.60] with their loving God -[4092.60 --> 4093.22] and with each other. -[4093.74 --> 4094.80] They were made for him -[4094.80 --> 4095.92] and for each other. -[4097.08 --> 4097.78] We learn that humans -[4097.78 --> 4098.60] were made to take care -[4098.60 --> 4098.96] of the earth -[4098.96 --> 4100.66] and given the responsibility -[4100.66 --> 4102.24] to rule in God's name -[4102.24 --> 4102.72] with him. -[4104.66 --> 4105.50] These stories -[4105.50 --> 4106.76] don't end in Genesis. -[4109.36 --> 4110.30] They carry throughout -[4110.30 --> 4111.16] the whole Old Testament. -[4111.16 --> 4112.58] God continues to rule -[4112.58 --> 4113.82] in his power and love. -[4114.32 --> 4115.22] He continues to dwell -[4115.22 --> 4115.86] with his people -[4115.86 --> 4116.82] and works to make -[4116.82 --> 4117.94] the world very good. -[4118.96 --> 4119.76] Parallel to this, -[4119.84 --> 4120.40] there is a story -[4120.40 --> 4121.18] of a human ruler -[4121.18 --> 4122.56] who will rule in God's name -[4122.56 --> 4123.56] and do the work -[4123.56 --> 4124.30] that God gives him -[4124.30 --> 4124.96] in full obedience. -[4126.18 --> 4127.24] In the Gospels, -[4127.34 --> 4128.34] those two stories meet. -[4129.30 --> 4130.12] The Almighty God -[4130.12 --> 4131.64] loves the humanity -[4131.64 --> 4132.42] that he created -[4132.42 --> 4133.86] in his image so much -[4133.86 --> 4135.36] that he comes down -[4135.36 --> 4136.08] and becomes one. -[4136.90 --> 4138.40] And he rules in God's name -[4138.40 --> 4139.04] and does the work -[4139.04 --> 4140.12] that his Father gives him. -[4141.16 --> 4144.36] Jesus, as we know, -[4144.56 --> 4146.32] is our God made flesh. -[4147.24 --> 4148.32] He came as a human baby, -[4148.56 --> 4149.38] lived a human life -[4149.38 --> 4150.12] with all its struggles -[4150.12 --> 4151.16] and pains and joys, -[4151.50 --> 4153.30] and died on the cross -[4153.30 --> 4154.20] and took the sin -[4154.20 --> 4154.88] from the world -[4154.88 --> 4156.12] so that he could redeem it. -[4158.16 --> 4160.04] Colossians 1, 15-17 -[4160.04 --> 4161.46] writes this beautiful capstone -[4161.46 --> 4162.38] on the whole topic -[4162.38 --> 4163.00] of creation. -[4163.00 --> 4165.66] He is the image -[4165.66 --> 4166.74] of the invisible God, -[4167.26 --> 4168.94] the firstborn of all creation. -[4169.66 --> 4170.30] For by him, -[4170.34 --> 4171.22] all things were created -[4171.22 --> 4172.34] in the heavens and on earth, -[4172.68 --> 4173.56] visible or invisible, -[4173.72 --> 4174.94] whether thrones or dominions -[4174.94 --> 4176.36] or rulers or authorities. -[4176.64 --> 4177.70] All things were created -[4177.70 --> 4178.68] through him and for him. -[4179.40 --> 4180.56] And he is before all things -[4180.56 --> 4180.98] and in him, -[4181.06 --> 4181.94] all things hold together. -[4182.76 --> 4183.70] So the first answer -[4183.70 --> 4185.44] to Eric's question -[4185.44 --> 4188.08] about when was the world created, -[4188.58 --> 4190.24] Jesus was the correct answer. -[4190.24 --> 4191.82] The Bible testifies to it. -[4192.22 --> 4192.96] So whoever said that, -[4193.16 --> 4193.58] great job. -[4194.22 --> 4194.54] There you go. -[4195.88 --> 4196.68] Jesus is here -[4196.68 --> 4197.66] because he's not done -[4197.66 --> 4198.50] with his creation. -[4199.70 --> 4200.12] In fact, -[4200.18 --> 4201.82] because we messed it up so bad, -[4202.24 --> 4203.52] God is recreating it. -[4204.42 --> 4205.50] That's some damage. -[4206.66 --> 4206.90] Therefore, -[4207.04 --> 4208.14] if anyone is in Christ, -[4208.46 --> 4209.48] he is a new creation. -[4210.16 --> 4211.28] The old has passed away -[4211.28 --> 4211.72] and behold, -[4211.80 --> 4212.64] the new has come. -[4213.54 --> 4215.06] We have died in our sins -[4215.06 --> 4216.04] and have been made new. -[4216.84 --> 4217.76] And when we die, -[4217.86 --> 4219.00] we're resurrected with Christ -[4219.00 --> 4220.12] in the new creation. -[4220.56 --> 4221.14] The new heavens -[4221.14 --> 4221.92] and the new earth. -[4223.26 --> 4224.42] The very same Jesus -[4224.42 --> 4225.32] that died on the cross -[4225.32 --> 4226.40] and rose on the third day. -[4226.98 --> 4228.16] That Jesus was present -[4228.16 --> 4228.86] in making you -[4228.86 --> 4229.94] before he saved you. -[4230.76 --> 4232.38] He designed every rock and tree, -[4232.60 --> 4233.56] bird and fish, -[4233.76 --> 4234.72] barren palatopos. -[4236.62 --> 4237.96] This was all made for him. -[4239.08 --> 4240.26] We were made for him. -[4241.86 --> 4242.60] Now again, -[4242.68 --> 4244.04] he is preparing a place for us -[4244.04 --> 4245.58] with his immense power -[4245.58 --> 4246.38] and he is creating -[4246.38 --> 4247.62] this time a city -[4247.62 --> 4250.06] in which we will dwell with him -[4250.06 --> 4251.86] and it will be very good. -[4254.16 --> 4254.88] So if you noticed, -[4254.94 --> 4255.66] I didn't talk about -[4255.66 --> 4256.64] how old the earth is -[4256.64 --> 4257.50] this whole time. -[4257.84 --> 4258.78] And there's a reason for that. -[4259.58 --> 4260.76] When we get into arguments -[4260.76 --> 4262.20] about how old the earth is, -[4262.32 --> 4263.42] 6,000 years -[4263.42 --> 4264.48] or 14 billion -[4264.48 --> 4266.42] or how it was made, -[4266.86 --> 4267.62] we lose sight -[4267.62 --> 4268.54] of the real reason -[4268.54 --> 4269.42] Genesis 1 and 2 -[4269.42 --> 4269.82] were written. -[4270.48 --> 4271.14] It's not about -[4271.14 --> 4272.36] the age of some rocks. -[4272.86 --> 4274.22] It's about who made them. -[4274.22 --> 4276.68] It's about Yahweh Elohim. -[4279.28 --> 4279.84] Let's pray. -[4285.90 --> 4286.80] Lord, thank you -[4286.80 --> 4287.62] for this day. -[4288.28 --> 4289.52] Thank you for this wonderful weather. -[4290.76 --> 4291.58] Thank you for this day -[4291.58 --> 4292.44] you have made it. -[4292.86 --> 4293.64] Help us rejoice -[4293.64 --> 4295.84] and be glad in it. -[4297.12 --> 4297.92] Lord, I pray that -[4297.92 --> 4298.72] as they go off -[4298.72 --> 4299.52] from here -[4299.52 --> 4300.66] that we would all -[4300.66 --> 4301.82] continue to worship you -[4301.82 --> 4302.44] throughout the week -[4302.44 --> 4304.66] and that you would be with us -[4304.66 --> 4305.30] and that your spirit -[4305.30 --> 4306.18] would be with us -[4306.18 --> 4308.12] and that we would glorify you -[4308.12 --> 4308.66] in all that we do. -[4309.52 --> 4309.72] Amen. -[4316.36 --> 4317.44] Please stand with us -[4317.44 --> 4318.08] as we sing -[4318.08 --> 4318.94] God of Wonders. -[4318.94 --> 4319.14] God of Wonders. -[4319.14 --> 4345.18] Lord of all creation -[4345.18 --> 4350.38] God of Wonders. -[4372.92 --> 4375.16] God of Wonders. -[4375.16 --> 4382.80] Holy, Holy, the universe declares your majesty. -[4384.88 --> 4396.04] You are Holy, Holy, Lord of heaven and earth. -[4398.04 --> 4402.64] Lord of heaven and earth. -[4402.64 --> 4432.62] Lord of heaven and earth. -[4432.64 --> 4434.64] Lord of heaven and earth. -[4436.64 --> 4442.64] I will call your name by night. -[4442.64 --> 4446.36] Lord of wonders beyond our galaxy. -[4448.46 --> 4459.14] You are Holy, Holy, the universe declares your majesty. -[4459.14 --> 4473.14] You are Holy, Holy, Lord of heaven and earth. -[4473.14 --> 4479.14] Lord of heaven and earth. -[4479.14 --> 4481.14] You are Holy, Holy, the universe declares your majesty. -[4481.14 --> 4485.14] You are Holy, Holy, the universe declares your majesty. -[4485.14 --> 4487.14] You are Holy, Holy, the universe declares your majesty. -[4487.14 --> 4489.14] You are Holy, Holy, the universe declares your majesty. -[4489.14 --> 4493.14] You are Holy, Holy. -[4493.14 --> 4499.14] You are Holy, Holy, the universe declares your majesty. -[4499.14 --> 4503.14] You are Holy, Holy, the universe declares your majesty. -[4503.14 --> 4513.14] You are Holy, Holy, the universe declares your majesty. -[4513.14 --> 4520.14] You are Holy, Holy, the universe declares your majesty. -[4520.14 --> 4523.14] You are Holy, Holy, the universe declares your majesty. -[4523.14 --> 4530.14] You are Holy, Holy, Holy, the universe declares your majesty. -[4530.14 --> 4544.14] You are Holy, Holy, Holy, the universe declares your majesty. -[4544.14 --> 4558.14] You are Holy, Holy, Holy, you are Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord of heaven and earth. -[4558.14 --> 4562.14] Lord of heaven and earth. -[4562.14 --> 4576.62] Here's the parting blessing. -[4577.68 --> 4579.46] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[4580.20 --> 4582.70] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[4583.22 --> 4586.06] The Lord turn his face towards you and give you peace. -[4586.94 --> 4587.20] Amen. -[4592.14 --> 4617.70] To the amazing one, to the unchanging one, -[4617.70 --> 4625.70] to him the anthem raise, lift up your hymns of praise. -[4625.70 --> 4642.70] For all the things he's done, for all the things to come, -[4642.70 --> 4649.70] to him the anthem raise, lift up a shout out. -[4650.50 --> 4653.70] Praise him with all of the music. -[4654.64 --> 4657.70] Praise him with all of the nations. -[4658.88 --> 4662.02] Praise him with all of creation. -[4662.58 --> 4664.36] We praise him. -[4664.70 --> 4667.08] We praise him. -[4667.08 --> 4675.08] See how the risen one, see the exalted son. -[4676.08 --> 4684.30] To him the anthem raise, lift up your hymns of praise. -[4684.72 --> 4692.52] For all the things he's done, for all the things to come. -[4692.52 --> 4699.86] To him the anthem raise, lift up your shout out. -[4700.30 --> 4702.52] Praise him with all of your hearts. -[4703.52 --> 4703.92] Sing. -[4704.38 --> 4707.62] Praise him in this generation. -[4708.62 --> 4711.82] Jesus, the light of salvation. -[4712.38 --> 4713.52] We praise him. -[4713.52 --> 4716.52] We praise him. -[4717.52 --> 4720.52] We praise him. -[4720.68 --> 4729.26] We praise him. -[4729.42 --> 4732.52] We praise him. -[4732.52 --> 4734.54] We praise him. -[4734.70 --> 4738.50] Shine your light, forever and ever. -[4739.58 --> 4742.46] Shine your light, forever and ever. -[4742.52 --> 4743.06] Shine your light. -[4743.06 --> 4748.02] the world -[4750.74 --> 4753.46] shine your light -[4753.46 --> 4754.68] Now -[4783.46 --> 4787.62] Praise Him with all of music -[4787.62 --> 4791.68] Praise Him in all of creation -[4791.68 --> 4795.90] Praise Him with all of creation -[4795.90 --> 4800.56] We praise Him, we praise Him -[4800.56 --> 4804.58] Praise Him with all of your heart sing -[4804.58 --> 4808.26] Praise Him in this generation -[4808.26 --> 4812.48] Jesus, your vital salvation -[4812.48 --> 4817.72] We praise Him, we praise Him -[4842.48 --> 4849.48] Praise Him with all of you -[4849.48 --> 4851.48] Praise Him with all of your heart sing -[4851.48 --> 4861.72] Praise Him with all of your heart sing -[4861.72 --> 4891.70] Thank you. -[4891.72 --> 4921.70] Thank you. -[4921.72 --> 4951.70] Thank you. -[4951.72 --> 4956.72] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 20, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 20, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 9f20fd6e87441b52c2bdc7e0711bf02b5a051015..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 20, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,84 +0,0 @@ -• Freedom and rules -• Breakation with the EU -• Distribution agreements with Port and the European Union -• Public project systems -• Security schedules from the EUF -• Ongoing projects and preferences -• Current status and comfort level -• Kevin Lowebert's identity as the youth pastor -• The church staff being on vacation, leaving him in charge -• Upcoming baseball event for Labor Day weekend -• Church softball team called the Isotopes -• Invitation to other church members to participate in the event -• Upcoming event at Topham Park on Sunday after church for a potluck lunch and games -• Reactivate youth conference to be hosted at the church with over 200 attendees -• Call for volunteers to help with food preparation, cleanup, setup, teardown, and other tasks during the Reactivate conference -• Readings from Revelation, Psalm 117, and Psalm 118 as part of the worship service -• Songs about God's love and peace in times of trouble -• Jesus as source of heaven and truth in circumstances -• Faith defined as confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see -• Importance of sharing personal stories of faith to encourage others and give God glory -• Prayer for God's guidance, recognition, and boldness to share His goodness -• Song lyrics praising Jesus' love, sacrifice, and redemption -• Worship songs and praises -• Church programs and activities for all ages -• Special offering for the church ministry -• Children's worship time and blessing -• Family prayer led by an elder -• Acknowledging God's creation and sovereignty -• Praising God for the beauty of nature, but also recognizing the needs of the world, such as poverty, homelessness, and climate change -• Confessing spiritual blindness and a lack of action to address these needs -• Praying for guidance, forgiveness, and strength for individuals and communities -• Interceding for those affected by wildfires, refugees, and brokenness in the world -• Requesting healing and comfort for those struggling with health issues and personal loss -• Giving thanks for blessings, such as the celebration of marriages, birthdays, and milestones -• Introduction to Jesus Christ -• Review of the sermon series on heroes of faith, including Rahab as the female hero mentioned in Hebrews 11 -• Overview of Rahab's story from Joshua chapter 2 -• Discussion of why Rahab is chosen in Hebrews 11 over other female heroes in the Bible -• Explanation of what faith means according to Hebrews 11:1 -• Rahab's story as a model of faith -• Faith recognized through hearing about God's actions in history -• Rahab's background and sinfulness contrasted with her salvation through faith -• Christianity's unique characteristic of being rooted in historical events -• Comparison to other religions, which often rely on private experiences or encounters -• The public ministry of Christ -• Accusation, trial, and killing of Christ -• Resurrection of Christ and its significance -• Historical documentation of Jesus' life and death -• Sovereign power and authority of God throughout history -• Human response to God's power: recognition or resistance -• Post-Christian culture and the deconstruction movement -• The deconstruction movement's goal of moving people away from Christianity -• The mindset behind the deconstruction movement: prioritizing self over faith -• Deconstructionism is closely tied to individualism -• Deconstructionist focus on self-empowerment and autonomy -• Believer recognizes God through faith, elevating Him above themselves -• Contrast between deconstructionist (self-focused) and believer's views of salvation and relationship with God -• Reference to Rahab as an example of someone who put her hope in God despite cultural and societal opposition -• Discussion of the sufficiency of Christ's life, death, and resurrection for salvation and the role of His Spirit in helping believers -• Testimony of John Kuypers about his health struggles -• Over-reliance on opioids, nerve pain blockers, and antidepressants -• Importance of prayer in facing challenges and finding strength -• Recognizing the power of God's presence through prayer and community support -• Sharing a personal experience of being trapped by prescription medication and finding help through prayer -• Reference to Isaiah 46:4 as confirmation of God's presence and provision in times of need -• Life's meaning and purpose being misconstrued -• The true nature of God's love and care -• Breaking down barriers to receive God's help -• Becoming strong, powerful, and God's child through faith in Jesus -• God's presence and support in times of need and pain -• God's presence and love -• Prayer for spiritual freedom -• Inviting worship team to lead in worship -• Gratitude for God's work in a person's life (John) -• Requesting God's continued work in John's life -• Thankfulness for the Holy Spirit's presence in community -• Thanksgiving for salvation through faith -• Petition for spiritual freedom and mercy -• Invitation to give one's life to Jesus -• Freedom and mercy being poured out -• Invitation to share personal stories of God's faithfulness -• Priestly blessing from Psalm 6 -• Worship song lyrics about Jesus as the Lion of Judah and Lamb who was crucified -• Declaration of praise and worship, including a call to repentance \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 20, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 20, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a3dd14191340bace62f3da61c5e65d262b0bc4ae..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 20, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1319 +0,0 @@ -[0.70 --> 6.86] Freedom laid. -[7.28 --> 11.12] Rules. -[19.58 --> 26.30] Over была breakation. -[26.30 --> 27.90] なるほど. -[27.90 --> 30.94] distribution here that has done, -[30.94 --> 33.84] by the way, with Port and the European Union, -[33.84 --> 39.24] is there any public project systems you have -[39.24 --> 45.14] Binglin wolkenny, the PML and I've got security -[45.14 --> 47.52] schedules from the EUF. -[47.52 --> 49.90] Proceeds to move eternally, -[49.90 --> 52.34] to build preference, -[52.34 --> 56.00] theseougts going on and I have the current -[56.00 --> 58.00] I feel very comfortable. -[58.00 --> 60.00] I already even know what it means. -[60.00 --> 61.00] Mm-hmm. -[61.00 --> 63.00] . -[63.00 --> 64.00] . -[64.00 --> 66.00] . -[66.00 --> 68.00] . -[68.00 --> 70.00] . -[70.00 --> 72.00] . -[72.00 --> 74.00] . -[74.00 --> 76.00] . -[76.00 --> 78.00] . -[78.00 --> 80.00] . -[80.00 --> 82.00] . -[82.00 --> 84.00] . -[84.00 --> 86.00] . -[86.00 --> 88.00] . -[88.00 --> 90.00] . -[90.00 --> 92.00] . -[92.00 --> 94.00] . -[94.00 --> 96.00] . -[96.00 --> 98.00] . -[98.00 --> 100.00] . -[100.00 --> 102.00] . -[102.00 --> 104.00] . -[104.00 --> 106.00] . -[106.00 --> 108.00] . -[108.00 --> 110.00] . -[110.00 --> 112.00] . -[112.00 --> 114.00] . -[114.00 --> 116.00] . -[116.00 --> 118.00] . -[118.00 --> 120.00] . -[120.00 --> 122.00] . -[122.00 --> 124.00] . -[124.00 --> 126.00] . -[126.00 --> 128.00] . -[128.00 --> 130.00] . -[130.00 --> 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--> 532.00] . -[532.00 --> 536.00] . -[536.00 --> 540.00] . -[540.00 --> 542.00] . -[542.00 --> 544.00] . -[544.00 --> 546.00] . -[546.00 --> 548.00] . -[548.00 --> 550.00] . -[550.00 --> 552.00] . -[552.00 --> 554.00] . -[554.00 --> 556.00] . -[556.00 --> 558.00] . -[558.00 --> 560.00] . -[560.00 --> 564.00] . -[564.00 --> 568.00] . -[568.00 --> 570.00] . -[570.00 --> 572.00] . -[572.00 --> 574.00] . -[574.00 --> 576.00] . -[576.00 --> 578.00] . -[578.00 --> 580.00] . -[580.00 --> 582.00] . -[582.00 --> 584.00] . -[584.00 --> 586.00] . -[586.00 --> 588.00] . -[588.00 --> 592.00] . -[592.00 --> 596.00] . -[596.00 --> 598.00] . -[598.00 --> 600.00] . -[600.00 --> 602.00] . -[602.00 --> 604.00] . -[604.00 --> 606.00] . -[606.00 --> 608.00] . -[608.00 --> 610.00] . -[610.00 --> 612.00] . -[612.00 --> 614.00] . -[614.00 --> 616.00] . -[616.00 --> 620.00] . -[620.00 --> 624.00] . -[624.00 --> 626.00] . -[626.00 --> 628.00] . -[628.00 --> 630.00] . -[630.00 --> 632.00] . -[632.00 --> 634.00] . -[634.00 --> 636.00] . -[636.00 --> 638.00] . -[638.00 --> 640.00] . -[640.00 --> 642.00] . -[642.00 --> 654.00] . -[654.00 --> 660.00] . -[660.00 --> 662.00] . -[662.00 --> 664.00] . -[664.00 --> 666.00] . -[666.00 --> 668.00] . -[668.00 --> 669.00] . -[669.00 --> 670.00] . -[670.00 --> 671.00] . -[671.00 --> 672.00] . -[672.00 --> 673.26] First of all, my name is Kevin Lowebert. -[673.28 --> 674.42] I'm the youth pastor here. -[675.28 --> 679.14] I have been the only pastor here this week because everybody left me on vacation. -[679.84 --> 681.86] So isn't it so sad? -[682.40 --> 683.34] No, they're having a good time. -[683.40 --> 684.10] They all deserve it. -[684.16 --> 686.44] So it's been good to be here this week. -[687.06 --> 689.80] A couple of announcements for you this morning. -[689.94 --> 694.50] On September the 3rd, that's the long weekend, the Sunday of the long weekend, Labor Day long weekend, -[694.82 --> 696.60] we are having a baseball event. -[696.60 --> 699.08] So our church has a softball team called the Isotopes. -[699.08 --> 703.34] We are inviting the rest of your church to come out and try to beat the Isotopes. -[703.56 --> 707.34] So we will likely be meeting at Topham Park Sunday after church. -[707.34 --> 709.40] We'll do a little potluck lunch thing. -[709.48 --> 710.62] There's parks for kids. -[711.06 --> 712.06] Bring anybody interested. -[712.18 --> 714.90] We'll have a good time and come out and see if you can beat the Isotopes. -[715.58 --> 719.42] As well, the following weekend, we've got a big weekend happening here at this church. -[719.76 --> 721.20] Reactivate is going to be hosted here. -[721.46 --> 722.46] That is a youth conference. -[722.46 --> 728.18] There will be 200-plus youth and leaders from all across BC swarming into this place. -[728.18 --> 729.70] It's going to be an awesome weekend. -[730.16 --> 733.18] But we are looking for a handful of volunteers to help out with that. -[733.30 --> 735.78] So that has been in the bulletin recently. -[735.98 --> 742.84] If you are able to help out with food prep or food cleanup or setup or teardown or set adjustments -[742.84 --> 747.88] as we move chairs and tables around throughout the weekend, please take a look at that sign-up sheet. -[748.38 --> 749.18] We need... -[749.90 --> 752.78] It's in the hundreds of volunteers for that. -[752.78 --> 757.22] So if you can help out in that way, this is not the only church we're inviting, -[757.34 --> 760.34] but this church has shown up in droves over the past few years. -[760.40 --> 762.08] So please take a look at that list. -[762.12 --> 765.40] And if you can help volunteer that weekend, that would be greatly appreciated. -[765.96 --> 769.00] Please rise as we hear God's greeting for us this morning. -[769.00 --> 775.86] God's greeting this morning comes from Revelation. -[776.48 --> 781.36] Grace and peace to you from him who is and who was and who is to come, -[781.62 --> 784.44] and from the seven spirits that are before his throne, -[784.68 --> 787.94] and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, -[788.48 --> 792.66] the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. -[793.12 --> 795.12] And all God's people said, amen. -[795.12 --> 797.96] Please take this moment to greet those around you. -[797.96 --> 798.46] Amen. -[825.12 --> 836.12] Good morning. -[836.44 --> 841.38] Our call to worship this morning is coming to us from Psalm 117 and 118. -[842.32 --> 843.06] And it says, -[843.46 --> 845.04] Praise the Lord, all you nations. -[845.30 --> 847.32] Extol him, all you peoples. -[848.20 --> 850.48] For great is his love toward us, -[850.54 --> 853.20] and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. -[854.00 --> 854.84] Praise the Lord. -[855.88 --> 858.08] Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. -[858.60 --> 860.02] His love endures forever. -[860.02 --> 860.42] Amen. -[885.12 --> 893.08] In my wrestling and in my doubts, -[893.08 --> 897.20] In my failures, won't walk out. -[897.20 --> 901.36] Your great love will lead me through. -[901.88 --> 905.56] You are peace in my troubled sea. -[905.56 --> 909.82] Oh, you are peace in my troubled sea. -[909.82 --> 921.72] Oh, you are peace in my troubled sea. -[921.72 --> 922.72] My light out. -[922.72 --> 939.12] My light out. -[939.12 --> 940.12] My light out. -[940.12 --> 941.22] My light out. -[941.22 --> 941.24] My light out. -[941.24 --> 943.50] Shining in the darkness. -[943.50 --> 945.86] I will call you all. -[946.02 --> 947.50] My light out. -[947.88 --> 949.58] My light out. -[950.08 --> 951.60] I will trust the promise. -[952.26 --> 954.82] You will carry me straight to shore. -[957.32 --> 959.08] Straight to shore. -[961.08 --> 963.40] Straight to shore. -[963.40 --> 964.22] Straight to shore. -[964.22 --> 968.30] Straight to shore. -[968.30 --> 968.92] Straight to shore. -[970.36 --> 975.08] I won't fear what tomorrow brings. -[975.48 --> 979.14] With each morning I'll rise and sing. -[979.64 --> 983.38] My God's love will lead me through. -[983.38 --> 987.54] You are peace in my troubled sea. -[987.54 --> 991.96] Oh, you are peace in my troubled sea. -[994.96 --> 996.88] My light out. -[997.38 --> 998.96] My light out. -[999.34 --> 1001.02] Shining in the darkness. -[1001.58 --> 1003.64] I will call you all. -[1003.78 --> 1005.26] My light out. -[1005.80 --> 1007.34] My light out. -[1007.84 --> 1009.38] I will trust the promise. -[1009.38 --> 1013.20] You will carry me straight to shore. -[1015.00 --> 1017.34] Straight to shore. -[1019.20 --> 1021.20] Straight to shore. -[1023.34 --> 1025.36] Straight to shore. -[1028.74 --> 1030.70] Fire before us. -[1030.92 --> 1032.72] You're the brightest. -[1033.24 --> 1036.38] You will lead us through the storm. -[1037.12 --> 1039.14] Fire before us. -[1039.26 --> 1041.12] You're the brightest. -[1041.26 --> 1045.40] You will lead us through the storm. -[1054.12 --> 1055.94] Fire before us. -[1056.08 --> 1057.56] You're the brightest. -[1058.38 --> 1062.32] You will lead us through the storm. -[1062.32 --> 1068.96] My lighthouse, my lighthouse -[1068.96 --> 1073.58] Shining in darkness, I will follow you all -[1073.58 --> 1077.40] My lighthouse, my lighthouse -[1077.40 --> 1079.72] I will trust upon us -[1079.72 --> 1082.56] You will carry me safe to show -[1082.56 --> 1086.84] Safe to show -[1086.84 --> 1091.52] Safe to show -[1091.52 --> 1095.84] Safe to show -[1095.84 --> 1125.84] -[1125.84 --> 1130.16] You are the source of heaven -[1130.16 --> 1134.48] Come on earth -[1134.48 --> 1138.48] Jesus, light in the darkness -[1138.48 --> 1142.48] Jesus, truth in circumstance -[1142.48 --> 1146.80] You are the source of heaven -[1146.80 --> 1149.12] You are the source of heaven -[1149.12 --> 1151.12] You are the source of heaven -[1151.12 --> 1156.98] You live and die, you broke the chains, you broke to life. -[1158.46 --> 1161.84] You are the hope living in us. -[1161.84 --> 1165.82] You are the rock in whom we trust. -[1166.34 --> 1172.22] You are the light shining for all the world to see. -[1173.66 --> 1177.52] You rose from the dead, conquering fear. -[1177.52 --> 1181.46] Our prince of peace, dry and a seer. -[1181.78 --> 1187.36] Jesus, I hope living for all who will receive. -[1189.00 --> 1191.16] Lord, we believe. -[1198.54 --> 1201.84] Jesus, hope of the nations. -[1202.88 --> 1207.50] Jesus, comfort for all who mourn. -[1207.52 --> 1212.64] You are the source of hell and hope on earth. -[1214.54 --> 1217.40] Jesus, light in the darkness. -[1218.50 --> 1221.78] Jesus, truth in each circumstance. -[1223.36 --> 1228.46] You are the source of hell and hope on earth. -[1228.46 --> 1232.84] In history, you live and die. -[1232.84 --> 1236.84] You broke the chains, you broke to life. -[1238.34 --> 1241.82] You are the hope living in us. -[1242.20 --> 1245.58] You are the rock in whom we trust. -[1245.58 --> 1251.70] You are the light shining for all the world to see. -[1251.70 --> 1257.18] You rock shall not dare, conquer with fear. -[1257.18 --> 1261.06] Our heads of peace, dry and a seer. -[1261.06 --> 1266.44] Jesus, our hope living for all who will receive. -[1266.44 --> 1270.44] Lord, we believe. -[1270.44 --> 1274.82] Lord, we believe. -[1274.82 --> 1278.32] Lord, we believe. -[1278.32 --> 1278.66] Lord, we believe. -[1278.66 --> 1283.48] And by you to be easy. -[1283.54 --> 1283.94] Amen. -[1285.98 --> 1295.54] We were looking this summer at stories of faith from Hebrews 11. -[1295.54 --> 1298.12] and so I thought I would start off with that. -[1298.44 --> 1301.08] Now faith is confidence in what we hope for -[1301.08 --> 1303.62] and assurance about what we do not see. -[1304.40 --> 1307.04] This is what the ancients were commended for. -[1307.74 --> 1310.68] This summer as we were looking through the heroes of faith, -[1311.22 --> 1315.26] I found myself asking what my story of faith looks like -[1315.26 --> 1318.96] or even what your story of faith looks like. -[1320.50 --> 1323.38] I think every one of us has a story of faith -[1323.38 --> 1327.76] and I don't think it needs to be as remarkable as Moses or Joseph. -[1332.84 --> 1336.26] You don't think I would get emotional on just something as easy as this. -[1340.52 --> 1345.06] We do need to share our stories with each other, -[1345.30 --> 1347.64] not just to encourage each other, -[1347.64 --> 1355.20] but to give God the glory for his faithfulness and his goodness in our lives. -[1357.50 --> 1359.04] So why don't we just bow our heads. -[1362.74 --> 1367.60] Father, you lovingly hold each one of us in your hands -[1367.60 --> 1374.18] and yet we don't always recognize your place in our lives. -[1375.40 --> 1378.66] Forgive us for being blind to the care that you give us, -[1379.08 --> 1381.36] for not recognizing your hand as you guide us. -[1382.52 --> 1387.60] Will you open up our eyes to your faithfulness and your unfailing love? -[1388.58 --> 1392.62] You have guided the cloud of witnesses that have gone before us -[1392.62 --> 1395.44] and our lives are full of your stories. -[1397.64 --> 1401.92] Give us boldness to share your goodness in our lives with others -[1401.92 --> 1405.20] as we rest in your amazing grace. -[1405.86 --> 1406.96] And we ask this in your name. -[1407.16 --> 1407.38] Amen. -[1410.26 --> 1412.46] We all rise as we sing this next one. -[1412.46 --> 1431.06] Who breaks a flower, a sin in darkness, -[1431.64 --> 1435.34] whose love is mighty and so much stronger, -[1435.98 --> 1439.98] the King of glory, the King of the Lord King. -[1439.98 --> 1440.98] Amen. -[1440.98 --> 1441.98] Amen. -[1442.46 --> 1444.96] Amen. -[1460.52 --> 1460.58] Amen. -[1462.14 --> 1462.42] Amen. -[1462.94 --> 1463.86] Amen. -[1463.86 --> 1464.22] Amen. -[1465.04 --> 1465.26] Amen. -[1465.28 --> 1465.44] Amen. -[1467.48 --> 1468.00] Amen. -[1470.80 --> 1471.70] Amen. -[1471.70 --> 1471.90] Amen. -[1471.90 --> 1472.12] Amen. -[1472.46 --> 1482.52] bear my cross, that you lay down your mind, that I would be set free. -[1485.10 --> 1490.86] Oh, Jesus, I sing for all that you've done for me. -[1490.86 --> 1520.84] Oh, Jesus, I sing for all that you've done for me. -[1520.86 --> 1525.34] The King above all kings. -[1525.64 --> 1528.50] This is amazing grace. -[1529.76 --> 1533.28] This is unfailing love. -[1533.86 --> 1536.86] That you would take my place. -[1538.00 --> 1540.74] That you would bear my cross. -[1542.42 --> 1548.74] You lay down your mind, that I would be set free. -[1550.86 --> 1557.34] Oh, Jesus, I sing for all that you've done for me. -[1557.34 --> 1563.34] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain. -[1564.12 --> 1567.34] Worthy is the King who conquered the grave. -[1567.34 --> 1571.74] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain. -[1571.82 --> 1576.12] Worthy is the King who conquered the grave. -[1576.12 --> 1584.12] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain Worthy is the King who conquered the grave -[1584.12 --> 1594.12] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain Worthy, worthy of this is amazing grace -[1594.12 --> 1607.12] This is unfailing love That You would take my place That You would bear my cross -[1607.12 --> 1616.12] If You laid down Your life That I would be set free -[1616.12 --> 1623.12] Oh, Jesus, I'd sing for All that You've done for me -[1646.12 --> 1665.12] My Jesus, I love Thee I know Thou art mine -[1665.12 --> 1675.12] For Thee all the fallings Of sin I design -[1675.12 --> 1686.12] My gracious Redeemer My Savior art Thou -[1686.12 --> 1696.12] If ever I love Thee My Jesus is Thou -[1696.12 --> 1709.12] I love Thee because Thou hast first loved me -[1709.12 --> 1719.12] And purchase My pardon On Calvary's tree -[1719.12 --> 1730.12] I love Thee for wearing The thorns on Thy brow -[1730.12 --> 1740.12] If ever I love Thee My Jesus is Thou -[1740.12 --> 1754.12] I love Thee in Thou I will love Thee in death -[1754.12 --> 1765.12] And praise Thee as long as Thou lendest me breath -[1765.12 --> 1776.12] And say when the death do Thou's cold on my brow -[1776.12 --> 1778.12] If ever I love Thee in death -[1778.12 --> 1787.12] If ever I love Thee my Jesus is Thou -[1787.12 --> 1790.12] And that sheds of glory And endless divine -[1790.12 --> 1801.12] I'll ever adore Thee in heaven so bright -[1801.12 --> 1807.12] I'll sing with the glittering crown On my brow -[1807.12 --> 1808.12] If ever I love Thee in heaven so bright -[1808.12 --> 1820.12] I'll sing with the glittering crown On my brow -[1820.12 --> 1822.12] If ever I love Thee my Jesus is Thou -[1822.12 --> 1824.12] If ever I love Thee my Jesus is Thou -[1824.12 --> 1838.12] May I have a seat -[1838.12 --> 1845.12] I'll sing with the glory -[1845.12 --> 1859.12] Good morning -[1859.12 --> 1860.12] Today's special offering is for the collective -[1860.12 --> 1866.12] Our offering today is an opportunity to support the ministry of those who serve in the church here -[1866.12 --> 1872.12] We are blessed to be able to meet here and in the church -[1872.12 --> 1877.12] And in the church we are able to be blessed and a blessing to those around us -[1877.12 --> 1881.12] We have a wide variety of programs that encompass the youngest to oldest -[1881.12 --> 1885.12] And all who come to our doors are the church joining us -[1885.12 --> 1887.12] Thank you -[1896.12 --> 1903.12] Thank you -[1903.12 --> 1905.12] Thank you -[1905.12 --> 1907.12] Thank you -[1907.12 --> 1913.12] Thank you -[1913.12 --> 1931.88] You are here, moving on this. I worship you. I worship you. -[1931.88 --> 1941.88] You are here, working in this place. I worship you. -[1943.12 --> 1954.88] I worship you. You are here, moving in a mix. I worship you. -[1954.88 --> 1967.64] I worship you. You are here, working in this place. I worship you. -[1967.64 --> 1979.64] I worship you. You are a way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper, light in the darkness. -[1979.64 --> 1993.14] My God, that is who you are. You are a way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper, light in the darkness. -[1993.64 --> 2003.64] My God, that is who you are. You are here, touching every heart. -[2003.64 --> 2016.64] I worship you. I worship you. You are here, turning eyes around. -[2016.64 --> 2029.64] I worship you. I worship you. You are here, turning eyes around. -[2029.64 --> 2048.64] I worship you. I worship you. You are here, bending every heart. I worship you. I worship you. -[2048.64 --> 2068.64] I worship you. You are here, taking every heart. I worship you. You are a way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper, -[2068.64 --> 2071.84] I'm in the darkness, my God. -[2071.84 --> 2074.84] That is who you are. -[2098.64 --> 2128.62] Even when I don't feel that you're working, you never stop, you never stop working. -[2128.64 --> 2143.68] y -[2147.76 --> 2155.68] my god -[2158.64 --> 2174.64] That is who you are -[2174.64 --> 2178.64] That is who you are -[2178.64 --> 2191.56] I would love to invite all of the kids forward, ages 3 to kindergarten. -[2191.84 --> 2194.26] Great job. You guys can come up front right now. -[2194.64 --> 2198.86] We're going to do a little prayer, and then it'll be time for children's worship time. -[2202.04 --> 2204.32] All right, here comes a couple more. -[2206.80 --> 2208.24] How has summer been so far? -[2208.64 --> 2208.84] Good. -[2209.00 --> 2210.62] Yeah, good. You've had lots of fun. -[2211.08 --> 2212.02] Have you been outside a lot? -[2213.02 --> 2215.02] Yeah, yeah. That's good. -[2215.44 --> 2218.82] That's good. Okay, we're going to pray, and then we're going to go to children's worship time. Deal? -[2219.50 --> 2221.28] Yeah, okay. Let's fold our hands, close our eyes. -[2221.62 --> 2224.80] Father God, thank you that we could come to church today and that we could learn more about you. -[2225.06 --> 2228.66] We pray as we go to children's worship time and as the adults stay behind, God, -[2228.66 --> 2233.50] that we will be able to really learn what it means to follow you and what it means to have faith in you. -[2233.68 --> 2235.62] We pray this in your name. Amen. -[2235.62 --> 2239.72] Okay, we're going to stand up, and then we're going to do the children's blessing, okay? -[2240.06 --> 2242.86] So we're going to do it really, really loud. Can we do it really loud? -[2243.50 --> 2246.00] Yeah, so we're going to say, the Lord be with you at the same time. Are you ready? -[2246.54 --> 2246.76] Okay. -[2247.28 --> 2248.38] One, two, three. -[2248.38 --> 2250.92] The Lord be with you. -[2251.24 --> 2252.82] And also with you. -[2252.90 --> 2253.96] All right, good job. -[2269.84 --> 2274.32] Good morning, everyone. I'm Steve Rikike, an elder here. -[2274.32 --> 2277.80] It's the first time I'm going to be leading you in a family prayer, so here we go. -[2280.94 --> 2286.04] Father God, Lord of Lords, King of Kings, you rule over all. -[2286.74 --> 2289.56] We, your people, come before you to acknowledge you are the creator. -[2289.92 --> 2294.28] You spoke our world into being, a world that speaks out of your majesty and power, -[2294.72 --> 2298.02] a world that we often do not understand, a world we wrestle with, -[2298.38 --> 2300.88] but we still take great comfort in knowing you are in control. -[2300.88 --> 2304.30] Lord, you give us the pleasure of experiencing the rhythms of life, -[2304.44 --> 2307.02] the rising and setting of the sun, the changing of the season, -[2307.22 --> 2308.28] each with its own character. -[2308.92 --> 2313.08] Summer with beauty of gardens and flowers and grandeur of forests and mountain peaks, -[2313.52 --> 2317.52] and both the peacefulness and the power of oceans and rivers and lakes and streams. -[2318.06 --> 2320.72] But Lord, even in summer, a period of rest, -[2320.94 --> 2324.78] help us to continue to see the many needs in our world and communities. -[2324.78 --> 2328.62] We think of poverty, poverty, homelessness, refugees, -[2329.34 --> 2332.30] and especially now the ever-growing impact of climate change. -[2332.82 --> 2337.02] Open our eyes to see the beauty and the needs around us and give us the desire to act. -[2337.70 --> 2341.32] Lord, we confess that we are often blind to all that you offer and provide for us. -[2341.56 --> 2344.34] We become focused and obsessed with ourselves, our own problems, -[2344.50 --> 2346.12] our own perceived needs and desires, -[2346.26 --> 2350.24] and we close the eyes to the beauty and creation and those needs around us. -[2350.24 --> 2353.08] The needs in the world we live in, -[2353.30 --> 2355.58] needs of our own country and our province and our community. -[2356.40 --> 2360.82] We confess that we really have no excuse not to reach out to feed those who are hungry, -[2361.02 --> 2366.00] clothe the poor, and to visit those in need and treat them as equals as they are in your sight. -[2366.68 --> 2372.82] Father, forgive us and use your spirit to prompt and move each of us to do our own part. -[2374.82 --> 2378.56] Thank you, Lord, for reminding us that you are in control and that you are always there. -[2378.56 --> 2380.96] Where can we go from your spirit? -[2381.62 --> 2383.92] Lord, you are in the heavens, you are in the depths, -[2384.12 --> 2386.16] you are everywhere in every corner of our lives, -[2386.28 --> 2388.46] and your hand will guide us and hold us fast. -[2389.52 --> 2393.38] Father, we pray for our world, our nation, our province and communities. -[2394.68 --> 2397.96] This time we especially pray for the many thousands of people -[2397.96 --> 2402.52] who are greatly impacted by wildfires around the world and very locally, -[2402.52 --> 2405.58] especially those who have lost loved ones, -[2405.58 --> 2410.50] thinking of the firefighters and those in Hawaii that have lost their lives. -[2410.60 --> 2413.54] We pray for the many families that have lost their homes -[2413.54 --> 2417.16] and now will face the very difficult task of building a new one -[2417.16 --> 2420.02] and rebuilding their lives. -[2420.36 --> 2422.96] We pray for the firefighters and the first responders -[2422.96 --> 2426.52] who are working very long hours in extreme conditions to control these fires, -[2426.52 --> 2429.78] and we pray for RAIN to help control them. -[2430.52 --> 2432.94] We bring all the leaders who govern before you. -[2433.16 --> 2435.50] We pray that you will bless them and guide them in the difficult, -[2435.98 --> 2440.10] stressful and often very thankless task of setting direction -[2440.10 --> 2443.88] and working towards solutions of the many challenges we face. -[2444.82 --> 2447.54] We pray for the refugees who have been forced to leave their homes -[2447.54 --> 2451.44] and start new lives in other countries, including here in Canada. -[2451.44 --> 2454.82] We thank you for the many people who work tirelessly to assist -[2454.82 --> 2456.50] in the new integration process. -[2457.30 --> 2460.28] Lord, we pray for brokenness that we see in the world around us. -[2462.42 --> 2466.98] We also bring our needs of this church, our concerns and our joys before you. -[2467.38 --> 2471.12] We pray for those in our church body who struggle with their health, -[2471.22 --> 2472.24] both mental and physical. -[2472.54 --> 2473.98] We pray for strength and comfort. -[2474.26 --> 2476.54] We pray for those that have lost family and friends. -[2476.54 --> 2481.64] Lord, comfort them all and send a special measure of your healing grace. -[2482.36 --> 2487.54] We pray for John Kuypers who is experiencing pain due to his treatment he has received, -[2487.62 --> 2490.96] and we pray for that situation. -[2491.16 --> 2495.06] We pray for Amy Cron who has been in the hospital for the last number of weeks -[2495.06 --> 2497.22] receiving treatment for her lung cancer. -[2497.38 --> 2500.96] We understand the cancer has advanced more quickly than expected, -[2501.08 --> 2502.32] and we don't know what's next. -[2502.46 --> 2505.42] We pray for her and her family in this very difficult time. -[2505.42 --> 2511.56] We also are thankful that Amy Bongers had her second eye surgery -[2511.56 --> 2515.54] and is doing much better this time, and we pray for her continued healing. -[2516.50 --> 2520.08] We pray for all those that suffer in silence, -[2520.16 --> 2523.20] and we bring them a measure of joy or healing power. -[2523.80 --> 2527.94] We congratulate Jared and Kristen Berndt as they got married yesterday. -[2528.20 --> 2531.58] May God bless them as they start their married life together. -[2531.58 --> 2535.80] And we pray and thank you for the celebration of birthdays, anniversaries, and milestones, -[2536.14 --> 2538.58] and many simple summer get-togethers. -[2539.54 --> 2542.04] Lord, help us to remember you are always there for us, -[2542.50 --> 2544.08] and that you call us to follow your teaching, -[2544.24 --> 2547.58] to live in fellowship and communion with you and with one another. -[2547.80 --> 2551.22] And we pray all these things continually. -[2552.00 --> 2555.14] We be with Pastor Kevin as he leads us this morning. -[2555.14 --> 2560.76] We thank you for his willingness to share his gifts, talents, and insights with us here at Emmanuel, -[2560.90 --> 2563.02] and we ask you bless him and his message this morning. -[2563.70 --> 2567.76] We pray all this in the name of Jesus Christ, your Son, and our Lord and Savior. -[2568.10 --> 2568.30] Amen. -[2568.30 --> 2568.40] Amen. -[2568.40 --> 2568.44] Amen. -[2568.44 --> 2568.50] Amen. -[2568.50 --> 2570.50] Amen. -[2570.50 --> 2572.50] Amen. -[2572.50 --> 2574.50] Amen. -[2574.50 --> 2574.88] Amen. -[2574.88 --> 2575.50] Amen. -[2575.50 --> 2576.50] Amen. -[2576.50 --> 2577.50] Amen. -[2577.50 --> 2578.50] Amen. -[2578.50 --> 2579.50] Amen. -[2579.50 --> 2580.50] Amen. -[2580.50 --> 2581.50] Amen. -[2581.50 --> 2581.54] Amen. -[2581.54 --> 2581.60] Amen. -[2581.60 --> 2582.54] Amen. -[2582.54 --> 2583.54] Amen. -[2583.54 --> 2583.66] Amen. -[2583.66 --> 2583.68] Amen. -[2583.68 --> 2583.76] Amen. -[2583.76 --> 2584.70] Amen. -[2584.70 --> 2585.12] Amen. -[2585.14 --> 2608.24] Amen. -[2608.24 --> 2610.48] Amen. -[2611.04 --> 2615.12] Amen. -[2615.12 --> 2620.86] in fear because of you. We have heard how the Lord dried up the waters of the Red Sea for you -[2620.86 --> 2626.78] when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to Sion and Og, the two kings of the Amorites, -[2626.98 --> 2635.62] east of Jordan, whom you completely destroyed. When we heard of it, our hearts melted in fear, -[2635.72 --> 2642.04] and everyone's courage failed because of you. For the Lord your God is God in heaven above -[2642.04 --> 2643.66] and on earth below. -[2655.82 --> 2665.02] Thank you, Amara and Shanae. You did such a good job. That was our text this morning, Hebrews 11, -[2665.02 --> 2671.12] verse 31, and then Joshua 2, 8 to 11. And so if you want to follow along a little bit, -[2671.12 --> 2677.30] you can turn to Joshua 2 especially, and then look at verses 8 and 11 as we go through this -[2677.30 --> 2683.60] message today. Now as we continue our sermon series on heroes of faith, our hero today, as we just heard, -[2683.70 --> 2691.56] is Rahab. Rahab is the only female hero mentioned in Hebrews 11. Now of course, there are many faith -[2691.56 --> 2697.74] heroes who are female in the Bible, ones who actually would perhaps look on much more favorably -[2697.74 --> 2705.12] than Rahab and Rahab's life. Heroes like Mary, who trusted in God that she would deliver his son -[2705.12 --> 2711.34] while she was still a virgin, or Esther, who stood up to the king of Persia, risking her own life to save -[2711.34 --> 2718.52] her people, or Jael, who faithfully drove a tent peg into some dude's head. That happens in Judges 4, -[2718.52 --> 2724.40] and she was credited with great faith. But the author of Hebrews doesn't pick any of them. -[2725.78 --> 2732.54] Not that they weren't deserving, no. He picks Rahab, though. He picks a prostitute from a pagan country -[2732.54 --> 2739.86] who has no ties to the Israelite people, except that she had heard who God was and feared for her life. -[2739.86 --> 2746.94] And I believe that it is exactly that reason that Rahab is mentioned in this text of Hebrews 11 -[2746.94 --> 2753.00] over and above other women throughout the Bible. First, let's take a quick look then of Rahab's -[2753.00 --> 2759.42] story, and all of this can be found in Joshua chapter 2. So in Joshua chapter 2, that whole chapter -[2759.42 --> 2766.00] is Rahab's story. Joshua sends in two spies to check on the city of Jericho before they cross the river -[2766.00 --> 2771.38] and into the promised land, because he wants to know what they're up against when they enter the -[2771.38 --> 2776.26] promised land. We don't know what the spies' mission was or how it went, but it seems that they were not -[2776.26 --> 2781.36] very good at their job, because all we hear about is that they instantly need to hide from a king who -[2781.36 --> 2787.60] found them relatively quickly. So Rahab, hearing much about what God had been doing for the Israelite -[2787.60 --> 2793.56] people, hides the spies on the roof of her house, and hides them under some flaxseed, showing that -[2793.56 --> 2799.30] flaxseed actually does have some promise and good into this world. Now Rahab then tricks the king. -[2799.38 --> 2802.72] The king comes in, and the guards show up, and she tricks the king. Actually, she just straight up -[2802.72 --> 2809.82] lies to the king, which we know is bad, though also lying about people hiding has been looked on -[2809.82 --> 2815.20] throughout history as much less bad and frowned upon much less than trying to kill the people whom you -[2815.20 --> 2820.42] are hiding, right? We've known that throughout history as well. So she lies, but she does to save -[2820.42 --> 2826.14] these people. Anyway, she tricks the guards. She sends them on this wild goose chase. Once the coast -[2826.14 --> 2832.48] is clear then, she goes back to the spies, tells them that she saved them, and pleads with them to -[2832.48 --> 2839.02] remember her and her family when the Israelite army comes back. The spies agree then, and they tell her -[2839.02 --> 2844.52] to hang a red cord out of her window so that they can recognize her house, and that when the time comes, -[2844.52 --> 2852.04] anyone who is inside that house will be saved. Then a few chapters later in Joshua 6, 25, we read that -[2852.04 --> 2857.00] Rahab and her family and all that were in her house were in fact saved and spared from the destruction -[2857.00 --> 2862.98] that the Israelites came when they defeated Jericho. So that's Rahab's story. That's what she did, and that -[2862.98 --> 2869.88] shows the faith that she had. But let's hear what Hebrews says. Hebrews 11, verse 1. Before we hear of all of -[2869.88 --> 2876.80] these heroes of faith, we are told what faith is. We are taught, and Pete actually read it this morning, -[2876.88 --> 2883.82] we are taught that faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. -[2884.48 --> 2891.08] That means we are able to look forward to our salvation, which is assured, because we are confident -[2891.08 --> 2898.76] we know what Christ had done for us. We are confident in what we hope for and assured about what we do not see. -[2899.88 --> 2909.58] That is Rahab's story. In our text today, she cries out to the spies in verse 10. We have heard -[2909.58 --> 2915.10] how the Lord dried up the water of the Red Sea for you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did -[2915.10 --> 2923.02] to Sihon and Og, the two kings of the Amorites east of the Georgian. We have heard, not we have seen. -[2923.02 --> 2931.28] More than that, due to what she had heard about God, about what he was doing with the Israelites, -[2931.80 --> 2938.82] she was confident of what was to come. In verse 9, she says, I know that the Lord has given you this -[2938.82 --> 2948.92] land. Rahab was looking ahead to her only hope, these spies and this God of Israel, because she was -[2948.92 --> 2955.80] confident. She believed in what she heard that God had done. She was confident in what she hoped for, -[2956.16 --> 2961.26] salvation through the God of the Israelites, and assured of what she could not see, that the God -[2961.26 --> 2968.62] of Israel was coming for Jericho and was going to give them the land. Rahab heard what God was doing -[2968.62 --> 2977.44] and by her faith recognized him. That's our calling too. That's what we should take away today. That's -[2977.44 --> 2983.80] the big idea, that through faith, those who see how God has moved, how he has exercised his sovereignty -[2983.80 --> 2991.96] throughout history, those who see that, those who hear that, will recognize him as the only God worth -[2991.96 --> 2997.84] serving. Or in short, faith is recognizing the one true God. -[3001.32 --> 3007.66] That's why Rahab made it on this list. That's why she is called one of these faith heroes in Hebrews 11. -[3007.78 --> 3014.38] By faith, she recognized God, not by seeing him or by growing up, learning about him, or by compiling -[3014.38 --> 3020.86] all the data that she possibly could collect. She heard and then she recognized. -[3021.96 --> 3029.38] Rahab, the Gentile, with no ties to the Israelite family or the Israelite history. Rahab, the prostitute, -[3029.68 --> 3035.22] making her living in a way that goes against the way that God's law dictates. Rahab, the liar. -[3035.80 --> 3041.70] She didn't bat an eye at deceiving the king. She was quite good at it to boot. Rahab, the pagan, -[3042.24 --> 3045.34] living in a land with people just steeped in sin. -[3045.34 --> 3054.18] But Rahab's story is not about sin. It's about salvation. Her sins are not dwelled on in this -[3054.18 --> 3060.82] story, but her faith is well documented. Her past sins don't condemn her. Her actions, -[3060.98 --> 3068.44] saving the spies, don't even save her. No, it's her faith that saves her. It's her faith that allows -[3068.44 --> 3074.68] her to recognize God. It's her faith that motivates her to save the spies. It's her faith that pleads -[3074.68 --> 3080.12] with the spies to save her and her family when God's coming to town. It's her faith that the book -[3080.12 --> 3089.26] of Hebrews roots her salvation in. The point is that an immoral pagan woman would never have been -[3089.26 --> 3094.94] considered a candidate for God's rescuing grace in the midst of the judgment that he was about to -[3094.94 --> 3103.82] inflict on her city. And yet she and her family are the only ones shown God's compassion and mercy -[3103.82 --> 3113.58] in response to her faith. Again, Rahab heard what God had done and believed in him and his sovereignty. -[3113.58 --> 3122.50] And as Jesus said to Thomas in John 20, verse 29, blessed are those who believe but do not see. -[3124.94 --> 3131.98] Rahab had faith, had faith in the God of Israel, faith that he was God and that he brought the -[3131.98 --> 3139.72] Israelites out of the land of slavery. Actually, it's interesting then, if you compare Rahab to the -[3139.72 --> 3149.30] rest of the Israelites, it's fascinating. God had to remind the Israelites so many times that he was the -[3149.30 --> 3155.28] Lord God who had brought them out of Egypt. The line, I am the Lord your God who brought you out of Egypt -[3155.28 --> 3162.78] shows up 11 times throughout the Exodus story alone. It's also rephrased a bunch more and appears in the -[3162.78 --> 3170.56] Old Testament tons more times as well. God's people constantly lacked faith that God was going to deliver -[3170.56 --> 3177.96] on his promises. The Israelites were constantly in needing of a reminder of who God was and what he had -[3177.96 --> 3185.48] done. And they lived it. They saw it. They saw what God had done. They experienced what God had done. -[3186.04 --> 3195.52] Rahab, though, through faith, recognized him without needing to see. She had only heard. She heard what God -[3195.52 --> 3200.00] had done throughout history and knew that salvation came from him. -[3200.00 --> 3212.02] That is another reason why Christianity is so compelling. Christianity is the most falsifiable -[3212.02 --> 3219.20] religion in the world because it's rooted in history. As Michael Payton, pastor and Christian -[3219.20 --> 3225.02] author, he points out, he says this. He says, the central claims of the Bible demand historic inquiry -[3225.02 --> 3231.64] as they are based on public events that can be historically verified. In contrast, the central -[3231.64 --> 3238.44] claims of all other religions cannot be historically tested and therefore are beyond falsifiability -[3238.44 --> 3245.42] or inquiry. Now, Payton's not wrong. He goes on to highlight that the Muslim has to trust in a private -[3245.42 --> 3250.70] encounter that Muhammad had, which cannot be tested historically. The Mormon has no way to truly -[3250.70 --> 3256.38] investigate the claims of Joseph Smith. Religions like Buddhism and Hinduism, they aren't historic -[3256.38 --> 3262.08] faiths either. They don't have central claims of events which believers can call upon and investigate. -[3262.62 --> 3267.24] You either believe it or you don't. If you pick any other religion or worldview in the world that you -[3267.24 --> 3275.18] know either, their belief system either carries no worldview changing significance, they give no historic -[3275.18 --> 3281.66] details on the foundation of their belief system or there's just no historic events which the foundation -[3281.66 --> 3289.02] of what they believe can be checked. So basically, and this is a little oversimplified but it's no less true, -[3289.02 --> 3296.78] other religions are started by one of three things, a private dream about God, a private angelic encounter -[3296.78 --> 3306.14] with God or a private idea about God. And then that one person who had that encounter or idea goes and tells -[3306.14 --> 3315.36] everyone what they had experienced. But not Christianity. The central theme of Christianity is this, that Jesus -[3315.36 --> 3323.82] was born publicly. And after living for 30 years on this earth, he started a public ministry which he lived out -[3323.82 --> 3333.18] publicly. Christ was then accused, put on trial, and killed publicly. Three days later, the tomb was publicly -[3333.18 --> 3341.04] empty. And Christ, after rising from that tomb, publicly showed himself to the public. The public then, about -[3341.04 --> 3348.86] 500 people according to Paul, then told everyone what they had seen. We read about it. It's in the Bible. It's -[3348.86 --> 3355.88] documented in other historic literature too. This happens. Israel is a real place. The wars and events -[3355.88 --> 3361.68] found in the Old Testament actually happened. Literature from around the world backs that up. -[3362.42 --> 3369.12] The kings, queens, prophets, and people mentioned in the Bible are real people. Jesus actually did come -[3369.12 --> 3376.00] and he came for a real purpose. Jesus lived this perfect life that you and I fail to live each and every -[3376.00 --> 3384.66] day. And people saw him live it. They saw him walk and talk and eat fish. Then he died a horrible death -[3384.66 --> 3391.68] on the cross. A death that you and I, we all deserve because of our sin. But he took that sin onto his -[3391.68 --> 3401.96] shoulders. And people watched him die. People helped him die. People killed him. But then three days later, -[3401.96 --> 3408.30] Jesus rose again from the grave. The tomb was empty. And people have to account for that too somehow. -[3409.60 --> 3414.44] But Jesus showed himself to over 500 people in this world and then he ascended to heaven where he -[3414.44 --> 3421.52] seated at the right hand of God the Father, saving everyone who hears and believes in what he accomplished. -[3421.52 --> 3431.10] Rahab was spared a punishment she deserved because she heard about God, what he had done, -[3431.84 --> 3435.34] and acknowledged that only God could save her. -[3437.20 --> 3444.70] Like Rahab, we are spared a punishment we deserve when we hear what Christ has done -[3444.70 --> 3452.50] and acknowledge that he saves us. And that's where the button meets the hole, to borrow an analogy from -[3452.50 --> 3462.76] my late mentor, Pastor Bill. Because once God's sovereign power and authority over all things is revealed, -[3464.26 --> 3468.58] once we hear that God has been an active God throughout history, -[3468.58 --> 3476.90] and that Jesus bore the punishment for our sin in his life, in his death, and in his resurrection, -[3477.86 --> 3480.12] we can respond in one of two ways. -[3482.60 --> 3485.72] With recognition or with resistance. -[3488.10 --> 3492.38] That's a theme, actually, throughout the book of Joshua following Rahab's story. -[3492.38 --> 3496.64] As the Israelite people continued to move their way into the promised land, -[3496.64 --> 3499.96] nations that recognized God's power surrendered, -[3500.58 --> 3505.18] and they were saved. Like the Gibeonites in Joshua 9, 24 to 27. -[3505.46 --> 3507.84] Now granted, the Gibeonites too, they were pretty sinful. -[3507.96 --> 3510.44] They tried to trick their way into that salvation first, and so -[3510.44 --> 3514.48] it came with some punishments, but they were spared and welcomed into the land. -[3514.58 --> 3516.16] Others resisted God's power, though. -[3516.96 --> 3519.80] They resisted God's authority, and they were destroyed. -[3519.92 --> 3522.06] Like the Amorites in Joshua 10. -[3522.06 --> 3526.76] When we hear of what God has done throughout history, -[3527.00 --> 3531.06] we respond with either recognition or resistance. -[3532.52 --> 3538.28] And in our culture right now, resistance is becoming the response we see more and more. -[3539.14 --> 3541.20] Now, Pastor Chris has said it many times up here, -[3541.36 --> 3544.14] and I've said it too, just far less, because I'm up here a little bit less. -[3544.14 --> 3549.26] But our world is increasingly becoming more and more pagan, -[3550.26 --> 3553.88] as we become a more and more post-Christian culture. -[3554.68 --> 3558.62] Now, one of the bigger movements we are seeing in our culture right now -[3558.62 --> 3561.42] that highlights how post-Christian we have come -[3561.42 --> 3563.90] is the deconstruction movement. -[3564.08 --> 3566.28] Now, I'm going to be doing a lot of air quotes in just a minute, -[3566.38 --> 3568.00] and I really need you to see those, -[3568.30 --> 3570.70] because if you don't see them, you're going to misunderstand what I'm saying. -[3570.70 --> 3573.08] All right, so there are people in this world. -[3573.36 --> 3577.86] There are influencers, coaches, there's companies now even, -[3578.28 --> 3582.34] that are out there that help people who have grown up in the church. -[3582.90 --> 3586.48] And they help them by deconstructing that faith. -[3586.96 --> 3591.54] They're out there basically to assist people move away from Christianity -[3591.54 --> 3595.74] and find true purpose away from Jesus. -[3595.74 --> 3600.82] All right, one online coaching service that has helped people -[3600.82 --> 3605.52] come to this realization recently posted the following quote on social media, -[3605.64 --> 3607.86] which sort of encapsulates this movement well. -[3608.32 --> 3609.26] This quote said this, -[3610.64 --> 3613.90] When others tell me that the reason I left the church -[3613.90 --> 3618.22] was simply because I really didn't know the one true God, -[3618.30 --> 3619.98] the truth is, I did. -[3619.98 --> 3624.10] The problem was that in order to believe in him, -[3624.40 --> 3625.36] notice the quotes, -[3625.98 --> 3627.94] I had to keep abandoning myself. -[3628.98 --> 3633.24] So instead, I chose me for the first time. -[3634.38 --> 3636.08] That is copied and pasted. -[3638.10 --> 3639.30] Now, first things first, -[3639.42 --> 3642.28] I believe the reason this is attractive to so many people -[3642.28 --> 3644.92] is because people's identities are at stake. -[3644.92 --> 3650.42] And so we need to be able to discuss this mindset graciously and genuinely -[3650.42 --> 3652.42] with people who are considering it -[3652.42 --> 3656.86] and not be outright dismissive or abrasive when we come across it. -[3656.90 --> 3661.24] But second, I think it's extremely important when we look at that quote, -[3661.34 --> 3662.70] and you can keep it on the screen behind me, -[3663.64 --> 3669.88] to highlight how intertwined deconstructionism is with individualism. -[3669.88 --> 3672.80] That last line, -[3673.40 --> 3676.38] I chose me for the first time. -[3679.16 --> 3680.80] There's a good response to this. -[3680.86 --> 3682.04] You can go to the next slide there, Enoch. -[3682.92 --> 3684.48] For many people, -[3685.44 --> 3687.86] deconstruction isn't about recognizing God. -[3688.00 --> 3691.40] It's about choosing to be your own God. -[3692.70 --> 3695.20] See, the deconstructionist resists God -[3695.20 --> 3697.26] and elevates the self. -[3697.26 --> 3700.42] The deconstructionist makes life about them. -[3700.94 --> 3702.62] They can find themselves. -[3702.84 --> 3703.94] They can save themselves. -[3704.12 --> 3706.00] They can choose themselves. -[3707.16 --> 3710.32] It's my life, my rights, my choice, my freedoms. -[3710.46 --> 3715.08] And for those of you who think this is a leftist versus rightist argument, -[3715.22 --> 3715.74] it's not. -[3716.56 --> 3721.06] This encapsulates all political leanings. -[3721.06 --> 3725.68] The deconstructionist makes life about them. -[3725.68 --> 3730.34] And it makes them the gods of their own life. -[3731.32 --> 3733.26] The believer, though, -[3734.32 --> 3735.76] through faith, -[3736.48 --> 3737.58] doesn't resist, -[3738.30 --> 3740.06] but recognizes God -[3740.06 --> 3742.54] and raises up Christ, -[3742.72 --> 3744.98] elevating Him above themselves. -[3746.44 --> 3748.84] The believer recognizes God. -[3748.92 --> 3750.62] They put their hope in Him -[3750.62 --> 3753.16] because of what He has already done. -[3753.16 --> 3758.18] Rahab recognized that there was nowhere -[3758.18 --> 3760.18] where God is not God, -[3760.32 --> 3761.82] including her own city, Jericho. -[3762.02 --> 3763.70] She cut herself off, actually, -[3763.86 --> 3765.06] from her background. -[3765.48 --> 3767.12] She cut herself off from her nation. -[3767.52 --> 3768.68] She even became a traitor -[3768.68 --> 3769.68] when she lied to the king. -[3769.84 --> 3772.54] She put all of her chips in for God. -[3773.08 --> 3774.94] She cast herself completely out -[3774.94 --> 3777.52] of her own culture -[3777.52 --> 3780.24] and cast herself completely on -[3780.24 --> 3781.62] the mercy of God -[3781.62 --> 3783.02] and the faithfulness of His people. -[3783.76 --> 3785.72] And salvation was granted to her -[3785.72 --> 3787.18] because she was confident -[3787.18 --> 3788.64] in what she hoped for -[3788.64 --> 3791.28] and assured about what she did not see. -[3792.62 --> 3793.44] Through faith, -[3793.66 --> 3795.12] she recognized God. -[3795.12 --> 3798.82] When we look at all that God has done -[3798.82 --> 3799.56] throughout history, -[3799.88 --> 3800.96] be that human history -[3800.96 --> 3803.58] or be that your own history, -[3804.44 --> 3806.56] we can also be confident -[3806.56 --> 3807.70] in what we hope for. -[3809.80 --> 3810.32] Salvation. -[3811.20 --> 3812.42] From our sins, -[3812.86 --> 3813.84] from our past, -[3813.96 --> 3814.86] from our addictions, -[3815.12 --> 3815.80] from our troubles, -[3816.18 --> 3817.62] and we can be assured -[3817.62 --> 3819.10] of what we do not see. -[3819.90 --> 3820.90] That Christ, -[3821.62 --> 3822.30] through His life, -[3822.46 --> 3822.90] His death, -[3822.94 --> 3823.76] and His resurrection, -[3823.76 --> 3826.34] has already won the war, -[3827.18 --> 3828.64] and His Spirit is here -[3828.64 --> 3829.72] to help us in life. -[3830.10 --> 3830.84] In a moment, -[3831.62 --> 3833.22] we are going to hear a testimony -[3833.22 --> 3834.82] about just that. -[3835.32 --> 3836.10] But before we do, -[3836.22 --> 3837.32] please bow your heads with me. -[3837.36 --> 3837.96] Let's just pray. -[3840.82 --> 3841.64] Father in heaven, -[3841.72 --> 3843.94] as we look throughout human history, -[3844.06 --> 3844.90] as we look throughout -[3844.90 --> 3845.92] our own histories, -[3845.92 --> 3847.86] we know that You are an active God. -[3848.84 --> 3851.62] Father, we read about -[3851.62 --> 3853.16] what Jesus accomplished -[3853.16 --> 3854.12] in His life -[3854.12 --> 3854.98] and in His death -[3854.98 --> 3855.82] and in His resurrection. -[3856.20 --> 3858.30] We hear about what Christ -[3858.30 --> 3859.58] has done for all of us. -[3860.44 --> 3861.36] And God, we pray -[3861.36 --> 3862.96] that our response to that -[3862.96 --> 3863.98] is not one of resistance, -[3864.22 --> 3865.58] but of recognition. -[3866.44 --> 3867.16] That we can recognize -[3867.70 --> 3869.28] that He is the one who saves. -[3869.74 --> 3870.76] It's nothing we do. -[3871.24 --> 3872.40] It's nothing we earn. -[3873.84 --> 3875.26] Christianity is not a faith -[3875.26 --> 3878.90] that demands works for salvation. -[3878.90 --> 3882.28] Christianity is a faith -[3882.28 --> 3887.14] about You saving us -[3887.14 --> 3888.68] and our response -[3888.68 --> 3890.08] to that salvation. -[3890.54 --> 3892.00] Lord, as we are about to hear -[3892.00 --> 3893.38] a testimony now, -[3893.44 --> 3894.72] we pray that You will be with John. -[3894.82 --> 3895.58] Allow his words -[3895.58 --> 3897.18] to resonate in this community -[3897.18 --> 3898.22] and may Your Spirit -[3898.22 --> 3899.16] be present with him. -[3899.58 --> 3900.44] We pray this in Your name. -[3900.88 --> 3901.14] Amen. -[3902.18 --> 3903.16] I'm going to invite -[3903.16 --> 3904.54] John Kuypers. -[3904.68 --> 3905.26] He's going to come -[3905.26 --> 3906.18] to the front right now. -[3906.18 --> 3909.22] We prayed for John earlier today. -[3910.24 --> 3911.10] Perhaps you know him. -[3911.14 --> 3911.64] Perhaps you don't. -[3911.70 --> 3912.58] But John has been struggling -[3912.58 --> 3913.24] with his health -[3913.24 --> 3914.72] over the last 10 years. -[3914.90 --> 3916.26] And he's about to share -[3916.26 --> 3917.30] his testimony now -[3917.30 --> 3919.68] about how when we recognize -[3919.68 --> 3920.86] what God is doing, -[3921.10 --> 3922.22] through the work of His Spirit -[3922.22 --> 3922.74] and through the work -[3922.74 --> 3923.56] of His people, -[3923.82 --> 3924.86] we can be confident -[3924.86 --> 3926.84] in God's salvation for us. -[3927.22 --> 3927.92] Take it away, John. -[3932.92 --> 3933.94] Morning, my friends. -[3934.40 --> 3934.68] Oh, here. -[3935.06 --> 3936.16] I should get you a microphone, hey? -[3936.54 --> 3937.24] That would be better. -[3943.82 --> 3944.48] Good morning. -[3946.22 --> 3947.16] When I found out -[3947.16 --> 3948.20] that there was a new treatment -[3948.20 --> 3949.16] available for me -[3949.16 --> 3951.12] and the pain that I've had -[3951.12 --> 3952.10] for the last 10 years, -[3952.18 --> 3953.96] I knew I had to face monsters -[3953.96 --> 3955.46] who I had trusted -[3955.46 --> 3956.42] for far too long. -[3957.48 --> 3959.00] Opioids, nerve pain blockers -[3959.00 --> 3960.10] and antidepressants, -[3960.42 --> 3961.34] 10 different ones -[3961.34 --> 3962.00] that I was on. -[3962.50 --> 3963.26] And it was all done -[3963.26 --> 3963.84] the right way -[3963.84 --> 3964.98] through the healthcare system. -[3964.98 --> 3967.16] I knew I couldn't do this -[3967.16 --> 3967.78] on my own, -[3968.10 --> 3969.50] so I called the prayer warriors -[3969.50 --> 3970.00] that I knew. -[3970.78 --> 3971.98] I need the strength -[3971.98 --> 3973.56] to make it to the end -[3973.56 --> 3974.60] without sliding back. -[3975.66 --> 3976.64] Thank you all -[3976.64 --> 3977.26] for the prayers -[3977.26 --> 3977.96] that I feel -[3977.96 --> 3979.36] as I face this monster -[3979.36 --> 3980.04] head to head. -[3981.34 --> 3982.10] What I feel -[3982.10 --> 3983.06] from your prayers -[3983.06 --> 3984.10] makes me remember -[3984.10 --> 3984.64] the power -[3984.64 --> 3985.84] that is there. -[3985.84 --> 3988.12] I feel them in my heart -[3988.12 --> 3989.56] and I cannot do it -[3989.56 --> 3991.22] without them. -[3992.80 --> 3994.66] When we need help, -[3994.74 --> 3995.32] no one will know -[3995.32 --> 3996.22] unless you ask. -[3996.46 --> 3997.86] We will never have the strength -[3997.86 --> 3998.90] if it isn't for prayer. -[3999.38 --> 4000.36] In my opinion, -[4000.52 --> 4001.04] saying nothing -[4001.04 --> 4002.52] is a recipe for failure -[4002.52 --> 4003.64] and I know -[4003.64 --> 4004.66] what that feels like. -[4005.34 --> 4006.80] I was ashamed to think -[4006.80 --> 4007.82] that I fell for something -[4007.82 --> 4008.68] at that time -[4008.68 --> 4010.14] that I thought was right. -[4010.50 --> 4011.56] I believe these drugs -[4011.56 --> 4012.30] were from God -[4012.30 --> 4013.40] to help me through the pain -[4013.40 --> 4014.22] and they really did -[4014.22 --> 4015.20] their job well. -[4016.34 --> 4017.72] I didn't see the trap -[4017.72 --> 4019.04] when the doctors -[4019.04 --> 4021.28] just added one at a time -[4021.28 --> 4022.40] and it snuck up on me -[4022.40 --> 4023.46] like a thief in the night. -[4024.78 --> 4026.56] Now I can see clearly again -[4026.56 --> 4027.64] and I thank you -[4027.64 --> 4028.96] from the bottom of my heart. -[4030.24 --> 4031.12] Pastor Chris shared -[4031.12 --> 4032.16] this verse with me -[4032.16 --> 4034.22] after that really confirmed -[4034.22 --> 4035.20] what I felt. -[4035.50 --> 4036.98] This is from Isaiah 46, -[4037.08 --> 4037.64] verse 4. -[4038.26 --> 4038.84] And I quote, -[4039.34 --> 4040.68] Even to your old age -[4040.68 --> 4041.56] and gray hairs, -[4041.68 --> 4042.20] I am he, -[4042.32 --> 4042.80] says the Lord. -[4042.80 --> 4043.78] I have made you -[4043.78 --> 4044.78] and I will carry you, -[4044.90 --> 4045.96] I will sustain you, -[4046.42 --> 4047.96] and I will rescue you. -[4049.94 --> 4051.02] The word of the Lord. -[4057.30 --> 4058.80] You thought life was good. -[4059.08 --> 4059.62] You said, -[4060.24 --> 4061.10] It's mine to take, -[4061.18 --> 4062.00] it's mine to own, -[4062.06 --> 4063.00] it's mine to live. -[4063.44 --> 4064.20] You thought life -[4064.20 --> 4065.06] was about pleasure. -[4065.62 --> 4066.56] It's mine to feel, -[4066.76 --> 4067.84] it's mine to hold, -[4067.92 --> 4068.82] it's mine to live. -[4069.64 --> 4070.32] You thought life -[4070.32 --> 4071.20] was about fun. -[4071.20 --> 4072.96] It's mine to choose, -[4073.06 --> 4074.00] it's mine to decide, -[4074.18 --> 4075.48] and it is mine to live. -[4076.20 --> 4077.22] But that didn't quite -[4077.22 --> 4078.20] work out, did it? -[4079.02 --> 4080.40] It's not what you dreamt, -[4080.44 --> 4081.94] it's not how you wanted it, -[4081.98 --> 4083.20] and it sure wasn't the plan. -[4084.18 --> 4085.18] So my friends, -[4085.66 --> 4087.00] this is my prayer for you. -[4088.10 --> 4089.64] May you see with your eyes -[4089.64 --> 4090.68] and hear with your ears -[4090.68 --> 4092.28] quiet the noises around you, -[4092.34 --> 4093.00] quiet the thoughts -[4093.00 --> 4093.54] in your mind, -[4093.60 --> 4094.30] and know this, -[4094.30 --> 4096.84] God doesn't just leave you. -[4096.94 --> 4097.94] God won't punish you, -[4098.16 --> 4099.40] and God doesn't forget you. -[4100.54 --> 4102.10] He's carried the cross for you -[4102.10 --> 4103.08] so you wouldn't have to. -[4103.18 --> 4103.76] He hung there, -[4103.86 --> 4104.38] and he died -[4104.38 --> 4105.70] so you wouldn't have to bear it, -[4105.72 --> 4106.24] and he rose -[4106.24 --> 4107.58] so you could live with him. -[4107.62 --> 4109.10] He calls you by your name. -[4109.68 --> 4111.16] So listen in the silence. -[4111.86 --> 4112.98] You will hear him calling. -[4113.62 --> 4113.92] Listen. -[4114.76 --> 4115.82] You will hear the whisper -[4115.82 --> 4117.02] in the quiet of night. -[4117.16 --> 4117.86] You will hear it -[4117.86 --> 4119.22] in the depths of your pain. -[4119.76 --> 4120.14] You see? -[4121.10 --> 4122.44] God can only use us -[4122.44 --> 4123.60] if we're broken in pieces -[4123.60 --> 4125.68] and in need with him. -[4125.76 --> 4126.76] With arms wide open, -[4126.88 --> 4128.06] he calls you by name. -[4128.94 --> 4130.94] So let this be my prayer for you. -[4131.84 --> 4133.12] You will become his child. -[4133.28 --> 4134.18] You will become strong. -[4134.28 --> 4135.28] You will become powerful -[4135.28 --> 4136.36] in Jesus' name. -[4136.46 --> 4137.22] Take his spirit. -[4137.66 --> 4138.64] He left here for you. -[4138.76 --> 4139.76] Take hold, my friends. -[4139.92 --> 4140.66] God will love you. -[4140.74 --> 4142.34] He will fill your void. -[4142.46 --> 4143.28] He will carry you -[4143.28 --> 4144.32] when you can't walk. -[4144.38 --> 4145.48] He will show you the path, -[4145.52 --> 4146.78] and he will make you his child. -[4147.74 --> 4148.68] That, my friends, -[4148.74 --> 4150.10] is my prayer to you. -[4150.84 --> 4152.14] You thought you wanted more. -[4152.72 --> 4153.08] You said, -[4153.16 --> 4153.72] it's my life. -[4153.78 --> 4154.06] You said, -[4154.10 --> 4155.26] I can do it on my own, -[4155.36 --> 4156.16] but you didn't know -[4156.16 --> 4156.74] what you needed. -[4156.90 --> 4158.16] You found a way to escape. -[4158.30 --> 4159.20] You found a way to hide. -[4159.32 --> 4159.90] You found a way -[4159.90 --> 4160.90] you thought was good, -[4160.96 --> 4161.98] and life would be great. -[4162.32 --> 4162.64] Then, -[4163.70 --> 4165.14] when things did fall apart, -[4166.18 --> 4166.78] you forgot -[4166.78 --> 4168.14] you could go back. -[4168.22 --> 4168.80] You didn't know -[4168.80 --> 4169.68] there was another way. -[4169.78 --> 4170.28] You didn't know -[4170.28 --> 4171.04] that someone cared -[4171.04 --> 4171.90] and loved you always. -[4173.00 --> 4173.88] So please, -[4174.82 --> 4176.22] let this be my prayer -[4176.22 --> 4177.16] for you, my friends. -[4178.14 --> 4180.08] May the grace of God -[4180.08 --> 4180.68] fill you up. -[4180.74 --> 4181.66] May the love of God -[4181.66 --> 4182.36] fill your void. -[4182.48 --> 4183.52] May the peace of God -[4183.52 --> 4184.14] fill your mind -[4184.14 --> 4185.14] with songs of love. -[4185.74 --> 4186.58] Take his spirit -[4186.58 --> 4187.54] and run, my friends. -[4187.66 --> 4189.14] Nothing can stop you now. -[4190.20 --> 4190.92] Trust in him -[4190.92 --> 4191.74] to change your heart. -[4191.86 --> 4192.32] Love others -[4192.32 --> 4193.28] as you love yourself. -[4193.42 --> 4194.08] Take his spirit -[4194.08 --> 4194.92] and run, my friends. -[4195.04 --> 4196.22] Nothing's stopping you now. -[4196.94 --> 4198.30] Nothing is stopping you now. -[4199.04 --> 4200.28] May the grace of God -[4200.28 --> 4200.90] fill you up. -[4200.98 --> 4201.90] May the love of God -[4201.90 --> 4202.56] fill your heart. -[4202.56 --> 4203.66] May the peace of God -[4203.66 --> 4204.24] fill your mind -[4204.24 --> 4205.24] with songs of joy. -[4206.36 --> 4207.04] Take his spirit -[4207.04 --> 4208.04] and run, my friends. -[4208.42 --> 4209.92] Nothing can stop you now -[4209.92 --> 4211.90] and nothing will stop you now. -[4212.78 --> 4213.84] Take his spirit -[4213.84 --> 4215.00] and run, my friends. -[4215.72 --> 4217.58] Nothing's going to stop you now. -[4218.30 --> 4219.92] Nothing will stop you now -[4219.92 --> 4222.46] and nothing can stop you now. -[4223.52 --> 4224.54] That, my friends, -[4224.60 --> 4225.88] is my prayer for you. -[4226.50 --> 4227.28] So please, -[4228.02 --> 4230.44] let it be my prayer for you. -[4231.44 --> 4232.36] Praise be to God. -[4232.56 --> 4233.56] Thank you. -[4246.06 --> 4246.90] Why don't we pray? -[4247.40 --> 4248.08] And then I'm going to invite -[4248.08 --> 4248.86] the worship team forward -[4248.86 --> 4249.68] to lead us in worship. -[4249.94 --> 4250.36] Father God, -[4250.42 --> 4252.00] we thank you so much for story. -[4252.50 --> 4253.74] We thank you for the work -[4253.74 --> 4254.44] that you are doing -[4254.44 --> 4255.34] in John's life -[4255.34 --> 4256.48] and continue to do -[4256.48 --> 4259.84] as he faces this monster -[4259.84 --> 4260.98] head on as he says. -[4260.98 --> 4261.86] God, will you continue -[4261.86 --> 4262.84] to work in his life? -[4262.90 --> 4263.42] We thank you -[4263.42 --> 4264.42] for your spirit's presence -[4264.42 --> 4265.20] in his community, -[4265.36 --> 4266.64] for the prayers offered up to him -[4266.64 --> 4268.80] that he feels each and every day. -[4269.68 --> 4270.70] And God, we thank you -[4270.70 --> 4272.22] that you work through story. -[4272.32 --> 4272.80] We thank you -[4272.80 --> 4274.32] that John recognizes -[4274.32 --> 4275.42] who you are -[4275.42 --> 4277.86] and that he is saved -[4277.86 --> 4278.56] because of that. -[4279.54 --> 4279.92] So God, -[4279.98 --> 4280.68] as we continue -[4280.68 --> 4281.58] to live this life, -[4281.72 --> 4283.30] may John's prayer for us -[4283.30 --> 4284.42] ring true. -[4285.24 --> 4286.52] We pray this in your name. -[4286.52 --> 4287.32] Amen. -[4287.98 --> 4288.42] Amen. -[4296.98 --> 4299.32] Where the spirit of the Lord is, -[4299.44 --> 4300.02] there is freedom. -[4300.84 --> 4301.86] Why don't we all rise -[4301.86 --> 4302.46] and see that -[4302.46 --> 4305.42] as we respond to what God -[4305.42 --> 4306.38] has been sharing. -[4306.38 --> 4322.94] where the spirit of the Lord is, -[4322.94 --> 4326.16] there is freedom. -[4330.16 --> 4333.94] Where the spirit of the Lord is, -[4333.94 --> 4336.94] there is freedom. -[4336.94 --> 4337.38] There is freedom. -[4340.98 --> 4343.82] Lift your eyes to heaven. -[4345.98 --> 4347.72] There is freedom. -[4351.72 --> 4354.30] Lift your eyes to heaven. -[4354.72 --> 4358.32] There is freedom. -[4358.32 --> 4363.28] Freedom reigns in this place. -[4363.28 --> 4367.28] Freedom reigns in this place. -[4367.28 --> 4372.70] Showers of mercy and grace. -[4373.38 --> 4377.40] Falling on every face. -[4377.76 --> 4379.20] There is freedom. -[4382.98 --> 4387.36] Freedom reigns in this place. -[4387.36 --> 4388.40] Freedom reigns in this place. -[4388.40 --> 4392.36] Showers of mercy and grace. -[4393.66 --> 4396.26] Falling on every face. -[4396.26 --> 4398.20] There is freedom. -[4398.20 --> 4400.20] There is freedom. -[4403.70 --> 4406.40] If you're tired of mercy. -[4408.40 --> 4410.32] There is freedom. -[4414.32 --> 4416.86] If you're tired of mercy. -[4416.86 --> 4418.94] there is freedom. -[4419.06 --> 4423.84] There is freedom. -[4423.84 --> 4425.74] Give your all to Jesus. -[4426.46 --> 4428.96] There is freedom. -[4429.40 --> 4433.12] There is freedom. -[4433.20 --> 4437.02] Give your all to Jesus. -[4439.44 --> 4440.94] There is freedom. -[4440.94 --> 4449.76] Jesus reigns in this place -[4449.76 --> 4455.00] Showers of mercy and grace -[4455.00 --> 4459.44] Falling on every face -[4459.44 --> 4461.28] There is freedom -[4461.28 --> 4470.08] Jesus reigns in this place -[4470.08 --> 4474.90] Showers of mercy and grace -[4474.90 --> 4479.30] Falling on every face -[4479.30 --> 4481.48] There is freedom -[4481.48 --> 4489.86] Freedom reigns in this place -[4489.86 --> 4495.06] Showers of mercy and grace -[4495.06 --> 4499.46] Falling on every face -[4499.46 --> 4501.46] There is freedom -[4501.46 --> 4509.46] Freedom reigns in this place -[4509.46 --> 4514.46] Showers of mercy and grace -[4515.28 --> 4518.46] Falling on every face -[4518.46 --> 4521.90] There is freedom -[4521.90 --> 4527.90] There is freedom -[4527.90 --> 4536.90] John, thank you so much for coming up here, for being bold and for sharing your story. -[4537.06 --> 4538.60] We are so grateful for that. -[4538.90 --> 4543.88] And I invite anyone who has a story to share about God's faithfulness in their life. -[4543.88 --> 4547.10] Please feel free to come talk to me or to Pastor Chris this week. -[4547.14 --> 4551.56] We would love to be able to share more stories about what God is doing in our community here. -[4552.62 --> 4557.48] Please join us afterwards for some fellowship in the foyer there for some coffee and tea. -[4557.56 --> 4558.98] Don't just run away into the smoke. -[4559.08 --> 4561.18] We'd love to chat a little bit more with you. -[4561.18 --> 4568.34] But before we close this service, please hear this priestly blessing from number six. -[4569.38 --> 4571.72] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[4572.50 --> 4576.62] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[4577.44 --> 4581.88] The Lord turn his face toward you and give you his peace. -[4581.88 --> 4584.96] And all God's people said, Amen. -[4604.40 --> 4608.64] You're the Lion of Judah, the Lamb who was seen. -[4608.64 --> 4612.54] You've ascended to heaven and evermore will reign. -[4612.84 --> 4616.50] At the end of the age when the earth you became. -[4616.94 --> 4620.16] We'll gather the nations before you. -[4620.82 --> 4627.30] At the age of all men, the defense of the Lamb who was crucified. -[4628.72 --> 4636.50] With wisdom and mercy and justice, you'll reign at your Father's side. -[4636.50 --> 4642.50] And the angels will cry, Hail the Lamb. -[4643.90 --> 4650.10] Who was slain for the world, rule in power. -[4652.04 --> 4658.22] And the earth will reply, You shall reign. -[4659.88 --> 4664.76] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all worlds. -[4666.50 --> 4675.94] There's a shield in our hand and a sword at our side. -[4675.94 --> 4679.78] There's a fire in our spirit that cannot be denied. -[4680.14 --> 4683.94] Because the Father has told us for the easy will die. -[4684.30 --> 4687.24] The nations are gathering for you. -[4688.00 --> 4693.70] And the ears of all men need to hear of the Lamb who was crucified. -[4693.70 --> 4699.70] Who descended to hell and was raised up to Him. -[4699.70 --> 4709.14] And the angels will cry, Hail the Lamb. -[4709.14 --> 4717.14] Who was slain for the world, rule in power. -[4717.14 --> 4725.14] And the earth will reply, You shall reign. -[4725.14 --> 4731.34] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all worlds. -[4731.34 --> 4737.14] And the angels will cry, Hail the Lamb. -[4737.14 --> 4739.14] Who was slain for the Lord of all worlds. -[4739.14 --> 4744.14] Who was slain for the world, rule in power. -[4744.14 --> 4752.14] And the earth will reply, You shall reign. -[4752.14 --> 4762.14] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all worlds. -[4762.14 --> 4764.14] And the Lord of all worlds. -[4764.14 --> 4766.14] And the Lord of all worlds. -[4766.14 --> 4767.14] I believe. -[4767.14 --> 4769.66] irgendwie of slain for the knowledge of them. -[4777.74 --> 4779.14] In the Los Angeles time. -[4782.14 --> 4782.84] For your grace prepared. -[4782.84 --> 4812.82] Thank you. -[4812.84 --> 4842.82] Thank you. -[4842.84 --> 4872.82] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 21, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 21, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 41cd4232b2c2c19565b6ee75ebc368088d97ed19..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 21, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,118 +0,0 @@ -• The song is about worshiping and loving God -• Repetition of phrases "it is well" and "with my soul" -• Reference to Jesus' love and faithfulness -• Mention of mountains being broken down by God's power -• Declaration of being a child of God -• Expressions of love for God throughout the song -• Town hall meeting on August 25th to discuss young adult ministry -• Proposal for future direction of young adult ministry being presented by council -• Baseball tournament and barbecue event on September 4th, sign up with Aaron to participate -• Reactivate youth conference September 9-11, registration still open until the end of the month -• Volunteer opportunities available for ReActivate, especially in kitchen help -• The greatness and power of God -• Calling to worship and submission to God -• Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord -• Faith, love, and relationship with God -• Healing and restoration through God's power and love -• Worship and praise to God in all circumstances -• Despair and loneliness -• Suffering and persecution -• God's throne and sovereignty -• Restoration of Zion and the church -• Prayer for revival and renewal -• Praise and worship songs (specifically "It Is Well With My Soul") -• Introduction to a hymn -• Announcement of special offerings for Emmanuel's ministries and missions, including World Renew refugee sponsorship and resettlement -• Information about World Renew's partnership with churches and advocacy for refugee rights -• Scripture references, specifically Galatians 5:14 and Leviticus 19:33-34, related to loving one's neighbor as oneself -• Quotes from scripture referencing the treatment of foreigners in one's land -• Song lyrics expressing hope and joy in God's presence -• A transition to a kids' blessing, with discussion about summer highlights -• Gathering together as a church family for prayer -• Thanking God for blessings and opportunities to serve -• Asking for wisdom, strength, and guidance for church leaders and members -• Praying for young adults in the community to be reached and engaged by the church's ministry -• Seeking blessing on the wedding of Rachel Klingeltink and Kyle Thomas -• Interceding for national, provincial, and municipal leaders for guidance and direction -• Asking God to comfort those affected by war and violence worldwide -• Praying for peace in conflict zones, particularly in Ukraine -• Seeking God's blessing on church members on vacation -• The story of King Philip II of Macedon and a poor widow who sought justice -• The widow's persistence in demanding justice from the king, despite being turned away multiple times -• King Philip II's response to the widow's boldness, where he listened to her case and provided justice -• Historical context: Plutarch's account of the story, and its connection to Alexander the Great's conquests -• Comparison to the parable of the persistent widow from Luke 18:1-8 -• The parable of the widow and the unjust judge is discussed from Luke chapter 18, verses 1-8. -• The purpose of the parable is to show that Jesus' followers should always pray and not give up. -• The parable highlights the importance of persistence in prayer, using the example of a widow who continually asks an unjust judge for justice. -• However, it's noted that simply asking persistently may not guarantee a positive outcome. -• An illustration is used with candy to show that asking repeatedly does not necessarily mean one will receive what they ask for. -• Discussion of a scenario where a child wants candy from a parent and asks repeatedly -• Explanation of why the parent would eventually say no to additional requests -• Illustration of how being greedy can lead to not getting what one wants -• Commentary on the behavior in relation to children and parents -• Mention of distributing remaining candies to others -• The parable is not about getting what you want through persistence in prayer -• Persistence in prayer is necessary, but it's not enough to guarantee God will give you what you want -• The parable is actually about being persistent in faith and trusting in God's promises -• The character of the widow in the parable represents a victimized group in ancient Near Eastern society, highlighting their difficult circumstances -• The point of the parable is to emphasize the importance of persevering in one's faith, rather than simply asking for what one wants -• God expects leaders to care for widows in the Old Testament -• The widow, orphan, and stranger are considered vulnerable people in scripture -• There are numerous verses referencing care for widows, orphans, and strangers in the Bible -• In first-century Palestine, judges often took bribes instead of helping widows and other vulnerable individuals -• The parable of the persistent widow is about a woman who demands justice from an uncooperative judge -• The judge's character represents God, and the widow's persistent requests represent believers' cries to God. -• The judge's initial reluctance to help the widow due to her persistence shows how God might seem distant or unresponsive at times. -• Jesus teaches that it's okay to be vocal and persistent in prayer when faced with injustices, rather than being quiet and passive. -• He emphasizes that God is not ignoring his chosen people and will bring about justice for those who cry out to him day and night. -• The parable of the unjust judge is used to illustrate God's justice and love for his people. -• God's character is described as loving, righteous, powerful, just, compassionate, good, merciful, and strong in Psalm 46. -• The parable is not about praying for material things, but rather about trusting that God will provide what we need when we pray with faith and persistence. -• Jesus teaches that God will renew our strength if we wait on the Lord and trust in his love and justice. -• Unconditional love and hope are found in God, who loves us unconditionally and is just. -• Foundation in adversity remains secure -• Perspectives can change with Jesus' help -• Two ways perspectives shift: becoming less complacent and rediscovering eternal hope -• Persistence in faith is key -• Covenant child syndrome affects some youth pastors who are baptized but have become complacent in their faith. -• Belief in God and Jesus -• Feeling saved and chosen by God, leading to a sense of complacency -• Distance from God and the Christian calling due to laziness and entitlement -• Abandoning church service, evangelism, Bible reading, and family devotions due to perceived convenience or busyness. -• The speaker mentions that people tend to forget about Jesus' return and stop being faithful as time passes. -• The speaker notes that when people only love God when it's convenient or beneficial, they are not truly loving Him with their whole heart and soul. -• The speaker quotes verse 8 of a passage, which says "When the son of man comes, will he find faith on earth?" -• The speaker emphasizes the importance of being persistent in one's faithfulness to God, even in difficult times. -• The speaker suggests that giving one's life to God every day helps combat complacent faith and shows true devotion. -• Reflections on a difficult week with personal and friendship issues -• Feeling burdened, hopeless, and frustrated, but remembering to pray for perspective and redemption -• Praying for God's presence and plan in the midst of challenges -• Experiencing relief and lightness after prayer -• Acknowledging that prayers may not immediately solve troubles or change circumstances -• The importance of persistence in prayer and understanding who God is -• Understanding the scope of Jesus' return and kingdom coming -• Faithfulness during trials and tribulations -• Remembering that Jesus knew what his disciples would face and calling them to remain faithful always -• A parable about remaining faithful despite facing hard trials, referencing the experiences of Jesus' original disciples -• The importance of persistence in faith -• Christ's kingdom coming -• Jesus' life, death, and resurrection -• Salvation through what Jesus accomplished -• Assurance of salvation not through human actions but through Jesus' actions and future plans -• Peace, rest, hope, and love available to those who believe -• Justice, peace, harmony, and Jesus' return are coming -• The parable of Jesus' slow movements reminds us to be prayerful and live faithfully every day, not just on Sundays. -• Faithfulness is required in all aspects of life, including peaks and valleys. -• God will act for the good of those who love him, so we should remain persistent in our faith. -• Prayer was offered thanking God for redemption through Jesus Christ's life, death, and resurrection. -• The prayer acknowledges God as a God of all things, asking to trust him in difficult times and give thanks in good times. -• Desire for holiness and faithfulness -• Importance of surrendering to God's will -• Invitation to coffee and refreshments after the service -• Reminder to remain faithful in all situations -• Importance of Bible reading and prayer -• Request to receive God's parting blessing -• Scripture from Numbers 6, requesting God's blessings -• Reflection on being pilgrims on a narrow road and leaving a legacy of faithfulness -• The end of a conversation or statement is acknowledged with "Amen". \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 21, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 21, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c617d0ac09d7f5ff6ea334adea41237cffc476fe..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 21, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2428 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 3.00] With my soul -[3.00 --> 4.00] Sing it out. -[7.00 --> 11.00] It is well -[11.00 --> 19.00] With my soul -[19.00 --> 26.00] It is well -[26.00 --> 34.00] With my soul -[34.00 --> 40.00] It is well -[40.00 --> 44.00] It is well -[44.00 --> 48.00] With my soul -[48.00 --> 49.00] Sing it out. -[49.00 --> 51.00] It is well -[51.00 --> 55.00] Oh, it is well -[55.00 --> 57.00] It is well -[57.00 --> 62.00] With my soul -[62.00 --> 65.00] Because of who you are, Lord -[65.00 --> 71.00] Oh, it is well -[71.00 --> 77.00] With my soul -[77.00 --> 85.00] It is well -[85.00 --> 95.00] With my soul -[95.00 --> 99.00] It is well -[99.00 --> 101.00] It is well -[101.00 --> 103.00] It is well -[103.00 --> 107.00] With my soul -[107.00 --> 108.00] Sing it out. -[108.00 --> 109.00] It is well -[109.00 --> 111.00] It is well -[111.00 --> 113.00] It is well -[113.00 --> 115.00] It is well -[115.00 --> 117.00] It is well -[117.00 --> 121.00] With my soul -[121.00 --> 123.00] It is well -[123.00 --> 125.00] It is well -[125.00 --> 127.00] It is well -[127.00 --> 129.00] It is well -[129.00 --> 131.00] It is well -[131.00 --> 135.00] With my soul -[135.00 --> 137.00] With my soul -[137.00 --> 141.00] Oh -[141.00 --> 143.00] Oh -[143.00 --> 145.00] Oh -[145.00 --> 147.00] Oh -[147.00 --> 149.00] And through it all -[149.00 --> 151.00] Through it all -[151.00 --> 153.00] My eyes are on you -[153.00 --> 155.00] And through it all -[155.00 --> 157.00] Through it all -[157.00 --> 162.00] It is well -[162.00 --> 164.00] And through it all -[164.00 --> 166.00] Through it all -[166.00 --> 167.00] How it is well -[167.00 --> 177.00] Oh -[177.00 --> 178.00] My eyes are on you -[178.00 --> 179.00] And is well -[179.00 --> 181.00] With me -[181.00 --> 210.98] I love you. -[211.00 --> 216.00] It's like a picture that you've painted for me -[216.00 --> 221.28] A love letter in the sky -[221.28 --> 227.00] Story -[227.00 --> 232.78] I could have had a really different story -[232.78 --> 239.00] But you came down from heaven to restore me -[239.00 --> 244.50] Forever saved my life -[244.50 --> 253.66] Nobody loves me like you love me, Jesus -[253.66 --> 259.66] I stand in all of your amazing ways -[259.66 --> 265.16] I worship you as long as I am breathing -[265.16 --> 268.76] God, you are faithful and true -[268.76 --> 272.26] Nobody loves me like you -[272.26 --> 278.26] Mountains -[278.26 --> 284.76] You're breaking down the weight of all my mountains -[284.76 --> 290.26] Even when it feels like I'm surrounded -[290.26 --> 296.26] You never leave my side -[296.26 --> 305.76] Nobody loves me like you love me, Jesus -[305.76 --> 311.26] I stand in all of your amazing ways -[311.26 --> 317.26] I worship you as long as I am breathing -[317.26 --> 320.26] God, you are faithful and true -[320.26 --> 323.76] Nobody loves me like you -[323.76 --> 325.76] お願い -[325.98 --> 327.26] Yeah -[327.26 --> 330.84] God, you are faithful and true -[335.26 --> 346.26] We're broken and utter貝 -[346.26 --> 347.26] Not going to chaos -[347.26 --> 349.26] Oh, what a song to sing. -[351.26 --> 353.26] Oh, what a song. -[354.26 --> 356.26] My heart keeps singing. -[357.26 --> 360.26] Oh, what a song to sing. -[362.26 --> 366.26] Oh, what a song to sing. -[367.26 --> 368.26] I'll never stop. -[369.26 --> 371.26] Oh, what a song to sing. -[372.26 --> 375.26] Jesus, you love me. -[375.26 --> 378.26] And I love you, God. -[380.26 --> 384.26] Nobody loves me like you love me. -[384.26 --> 391.26] Jesus, I stand in awe of your amazing way. -[392.26 --> 397.26] I'll worship you as long as I am relieved. -[398.26 --> 401.26] God, I will worship you forever. -[402.26 --> 403.26] Worship me. -[403.26 --> 407.26] Nobody loves me like you love me. -[408.26 --> 413.26] Jesus, I stand in awe of your amazing way. -[414.26 --> 420.26] I'll worship you as long as I am relieved. -[421.26 --> 423.26] God, you are faithful in truth. -[423.26 --> 424.26] Nobody loves me like you. -[424.26 --> 426.26] Nobody loves me like you love me. -[426.26 --> 428.26] Nobody loves me like you love me. -[428.26 --> 432.26] I'm a child of God. -[432.26 --> 433.26] I'm a child of God. -[433.26 --> 434.26] I'm a child of God. -[434.26 --> 437.26] Yes, I am. -[437.26 --> 440.26] Nobody loves me like you love me. -[440.26 --> 441.26] Nobody loves me like you. -[441.26 --> 445.26] Nobody loves me like you. -[445.26 --> 475.24] I love you -[475.26 --> 505.24] I love you -[505.26 --> 535.24] I love you -[535.24 --> 537.24] We sing to the God who heals -[537.24 --> 540.08] We sing to the God who saves -[540.08 --> 544.52] We sing to the God who always makes a way -[544.52 --> 548.42] Cause He hung up on that cross -[548.42 --> 551.30] Then He rose up from that grave -[551.30 --> 556.40] My God's still rolling stones away -[556.40 --> 561.40] Let's join the heart of the Lord -[561.40 --> 565.72] Good morning everyone -[565.72 --> 568.46] Welcome to church this morning -[568.46 --> 569.54] My name is Kevin Lobert -[569.54 --> 571.34] I'm the youth pastor here at Emanuel -[571.34 --> 574.18] It's good to see so many of us here on this August Sunday -[574.18 --> 577.18] A couple of announcements this morning before we begin the service -[577.18 --> 580.78] This coming Thursday, August the 25th -[580.78 --> 582.70] Our church is hosting a town hall meeting -[582.70 --> 586.14] So that's for all members and even non-members to invite -[586.14 --> 588.42] To come out to discuss things of this church -[588.42 --> 591.08] But specifically the young adult ministry of our church -[591.08 --> 595.12] So the past two years the young adult ministry was under -[595.12 --> 597.78] Josh Chamberlain was the intern here -[597.78 --> 598.58] He ran that ministry -[598.58 --> 599.74] His contract has been up -[599.74 --> 600.92] And so there's a meeting to discuss -[600.92 --> 602.84] What do we do with this ministry going forward -[602.84 --> 605.24] Council's got a proposal -[605.24 --> 608.60] But we want to give some information and some reasons for that proposal -[608.60 --> 610.38] And then we want to hear from you the congregation as well -[610.38 --> 612.50] So please do come out this coming Thursday -[612.50 --> 615.10] I believe it starts at 7 for that discussion -[615.10 --> 617.38] And we hope to see many of you there for that -[617.38 --> 619.42] On September the 4th -[619.42 --> 620.86] Which is in a couple weeks -[620.86 --> 626.62] We're going to be hosting a baseball tournament barbecue fun event -[626.62 --> 628.40] So that'll happen after church -[628.40 --> 630.62] 12 till 4-ish we're thinking -[630.62 --> 632.42] A few more details are being sorted -[632.42 --> 634.46] But have that date sort of circled in your calendar -[634.46 --> 636.18] If you'd like to come to that -[636.18 --> 637.64] Sign up for a baseball team -[637.64 --> 638.74] Email Aaron -[638.74 --> 639.62] His name is -[639.62 --> 642.64] His email's in the bulletin as well -[642.64 --> 643.46] So you can email him -[643.46 --> 644.68] And he'll get you on a team -[644.68 --> 646.02] And then we'll have a good time -[646.02 --> 646.94] So if you want to play -[646.94 --> 647.22] Play -[647.22 --> 648.00] If you don't want to play -[648.00 --> 648.72] You can still come out -[648.72 --> 649.68] And you can watch -[649.68 --> 650.42] And you can eat food -[650.42 --> 651.62] And you can cheer people on -[651.62 --> 652.36] And it'll be very exciting -[652.36 --> 654.36] Finally reactivate -[654.36 --> 655.52] Is a big youth conference -[655.52 --> 656.84] Done in the CRC church -[656.84 --> 659.14] The 7th one is happening -[659.14 --> 661.78] This September 9th to 11th -[661.78 --> 662.32] Youth -[662.32 --> 663.48] You can still register -[663.48 --> 664.22] Till the end of the month -[664.22 --> 665.16] So please do that -[665.16 --> 666.38] But for that conference -[666.38 --> 668.48] It's being hosted by Willoughby -[668.48 --> 670.54] But we're looking for a number of volunteers still -[670.54 --> 672.94] So some more information -[672.94 --> 674.04] On what type of volunteer -[674.04 --> 675.62] Will be coming out in the next week or two -[675.62 --> 677.58] But we're especially looking for someone -[677.58 --> 678.56] To help out in the kitchen -[678.56 --> 680.50] We have a wonderful leader -[680.50 --> 681.70] Who's cooking all the meals -[681.70 --> 683.30] And does most of the grocery shopping -[683.30 --> 683.64] Fay -[683.64 --> 685.86] But she's looking for sort of a right hand person -[685.86 --> 687.98] To kind of walk alongside of her that weekend -[687.98 --> 689.48] So if that's something that you're passionate about -[689.48 --> 690.60] Something you think you can help with -[690.60 --> 693.04] Please consider coming out to that -[693.04 --> 693.92] You can chat with me -[693.92 --> 696.30] To help out in that capacity -[696.30 --> 699.30] I'm going to invite you all to rise right now -[699.30 --> 701.30] And we'll receive God's greeting this morning -[701.30 --> 706.18] God's greeting this morning -[706.18 --> 708.10] Comes from Revelation 1 -[708.10 --> 708.86] Where it says -[708.86 --> 710.90] Grace to you and peace from him -[710.90 --> 713.42] Who is and who was and who is to come -[713.42 --> 716.14] And from the seven spirits before his throne -[716.14 --> 717.64] And from Jesus Christ -[717.64 --> 718.94] Who is the faithful witness -[718.94 --> 720.52] The firstborn of the dead -[720.52 --> 722.94] And the ruler of the kings of the earth -[722.94 --> 724.48] And all God's people said -[724.48 --> 727.62] Now we haven't done this in a long time -[727.62 --> 729.28] But as God has greeted us this morning -[729.28 --> 731.72] Please be sensitive to maybe some handshakes for some -[731.72 --> 732.66] But please take this time -[732.66 --> 733.20] Turn around -[733.20 --> 735.26] Greet one another this morning -[735.26 --> 735.76] Amen -[748.94 --> 761.88] Children of God -[761.88 --> 764.06] Enter into this congregation -[764.06 --> 765.78] Not just with your physical being -[765.78 --> 767.68] Let not your heart and mind -[767.68 --> 769.36] Be misplaced in its affections -[769.36 --> 771.60] Humble yourselves before the presence -[771.60 --> 772.78] Of the almighty God -[772.78 --> 774.08] The everlasting Lord -[774.08 --> 774.98] The truth -[774.98 --> 775.96] The great I am -[775.96 --> 776.90] The Lord of Jehovah -[776.90 --> 778.10] Creator of the earth -[778.10 --> 780.52] Let us come bow down before him -[780.52 --> 782.22] Bring your praises -[782.22 --> 782.90] Your cries -[782.90 --> 783.50] Your prayers -[783.50 --> 784.12] Your wrestling -[784.12 --> 785.76] Come with expectation -[785.76 --> 786.54] With faith -[786.54 --> 787.40] Before our Father -[787.40 --> 788.24] Who art in heaven -[788.24 --> 789.48] Bride of Christ -[789.48 --> 790.36] Lift your voices -[790.36 --> 791.00] And sing -[808.10 --> 817.08] Let us come in true submission -[817.08 --> 822.48] In the faith he will provide -[822.48 --> 828.88] Let us come in true submission -[828.88 --> 834.56] In the faith he will provide -[834.56 --> 837.98] Let us come to God -[837.98 --> 838.94] Let us come to God -[838.94 --> 840.98] To save you -[840.98 --> 846.22] He has his arms stretched open wide -[846.22 --> 849.86] He died at Calvary -[849.86 --> 852.84] Just to save you -[852.84 --> 853.84] Because he loves you -[853.84 --> 855.04] Because he loves you -[855.04 --> 855.06] Because he loves you -[855.06 --> 856.76] As his child -[856.76 --> 864.34] He is the everlasting Lord -[864.34 --> 867.26] He is the truth -[867.26 --> 869.66] The great I am -[869.66 --> 871.50] The Lord Jehovah -[871.50 --> 875.16] Creator of the earth -[875.16 --> 879.58] Come let us bow before him now -[879.58 --> 892.50] He has called you to your Father -[892.50 --> 898.00] He has called you as his child -[898.00 --> 902.42] Joined as with Christ -[902.42 --> 905.50] Oh righteous saint -[905.50 --> 910.42] He has made you holy in his sight -[910.42 --> 916.84] He is the everlasting Lord -[916.84 --> 919.84] He is the truth -[919.84 --> 922.22] The great I am -[922.22 --> 924.06] The Lord Jehovah -[924.06 --> 927.00] Creator of the earth -[927.00 --> 932.42] Come let us bow before him now -[932.42 --> 934.42] Come let us bow before him now -[934.42 --> 935.42] Come let us bow before him now -[935.42 --> 938.42] He is the everlasting Lord -[938.42 --> 939.42] He is the everlasting Lord -[939.42 --> 941.42] He is the truth -[941.42 --> 944.38] The great I am -[944.38 --> 945.42] The Lord Jehovah -[945.42 --> 949.42] Creator of the earth -[949.42 --> 954.42] Come let us bow before him now -[954.42 --> 967.84] Come let us bow before him now -[967.84 --> 971.84] Come let us bow before him now -[971.84 --> 984.96] Come let us bow before him now -[984.96 --> 990.08] Come let us bow before him now -[990.08 --> 1011.64] Let the faith rise up and sing -[1011.64 --> 1015.48] Of the great and glorious King -[1015.48 --> 1019.42] You are strong when you feel weak -[1019.42 --> 1023.80] When your brokenness complete -[1023.80 --> 1029.68] Shout to the north and the south -[1029.68 --> 1033.60] Sing to the east and the west -[1033.60 --> 1037.66] Jesus, his Savior to all -[1037.66 --> 1041.56] He's Lord of heaven and earth -[1041.56 --> 1046.82] Rise up, women of the truth -[1046.82 --> 1050.70] Send and sing to broken hearts -[1050.70 --> 1054.52] Who can know the healing power -[1054.52 --> 1060.32] Of our awesome King of love -[1060.32 --> 1064.78] Shout to the north and the south -[1064.78 --> 1068.70] Sing to the east and the west -[1068.70 --> 1072.70] Jesus, his Savior to all -[1072.70 --> 1076.96] He's Lord of heaven and earth -[1076.96 --> 1080.58] We've been through fire -[1080.58 --> 1082.66] We've been through rain -[1082.66 --> 1086.54] We've been refined by the power of His name -[1086.54 --> 1090.40] We've fallen deeper in love with you -[1090.40 --> 1096.40] You've burned the truth on our lips -[1096.40 --> 1100.40] Shout to the north and the south -[1100.40 --> 1104.38] Sing to the east and the west -[1104.38 --> 1108.46] Jesus, his Savior to all -[1108.46 --> 1112.40] He's Lord of heaven and earth -[1112.40 --> 1117.78] Rise up, church with broken wings -[1117.78 --> 1121.58] Fill this place with songs again -[1121.58 --> 1125.68] Of our God who reigns on heart -[1125.68 --> 1130.28] By His grace again we'll fly -[1130.28 --> 1136.02] Shout to the north and the south -[1136.02 --> 1140.02] Sing to the east and the west -[1140.02 --> 1144.16] Jesus, his Savior to all -[1144.16 --> 1147.74] He's Lord of heaven and earth -[1147.74 --> 1151.96] Shout to the north and the south -[1151.96 --> 1155.74] Sing to the east and the west -[1155.74 --> 1159.78] Jesus, his Savior to all -[1159.78 --> 1163.70] He's Lord of heaven and earth -[1163.70 --> 1176.16] Hear our prayer, O Lord -[1176.16 --> 1179.12] Let my cries come to you -[1179.12 --> 1181.34] Do not hide your face from me -[1181.34 --> 1182.78] In the day of my distress -[1182.78 --> 1184.62] Incline your ear to me -[1184.62 --> 1187.54] Answer me speedily in the day when I call -[1187.54 --> 1190.44] For my days pass away like smoke -[1190.44 --> 1192.86] And my bones burn like a furnace -[1192.86 --> 1195.78] My heart is struck down like grass -[1195.78 --> 1196.64] And has withered -[1196.64 --> 1198.56] I forgot to eat my bread -[1198.56 --> 1200.58] Because of my loud groaning -[1200.58 --> 1202.68] My bones cling to my flesh -[1202.68 --> 1205.74] I'm like a desert owl of the wilderness -[1205.74 --> 1208.18] Like an owl of the waste places -[1208.18 --> 1209.38] I lie awake -[1209.38 --> 1213.00] I am like a lonely sparrow on the housetop -[1213.00 --> 1216.34] All the day my enemies taunt me -[1216.34 --> 1219.12] Those who deride me -[1219.12 --> 1221.30] Use my name for a curse -[1221.30 --> 1223.48] For I eat ashes like bread -[1223.48 --> 1225.40] And mingle tears with my drink -[1225.40 --> 1229.20] Because of your indignation and anger -[1229.20 --> 1232.36] For you have taken me up -[1232.36 --> 1233.60] And thrown me down -[1233.60 --> 1235.84] My days are like an evening shadow -[1235.84 --> 1238.54] I wither away like grass -[1238.54 --> 1242.46] But you, O Lord, are enthroned forever -[1242.46 --> 1245.40] You are remembered throughout all the generations -[1245.40 --> 1248.14] You will arise and have pity on Zion -[1248.14 --> 1250.20] It is the time to favour her -[1250.20 --> 1251.92] The appointed time has come -[1251.92 --> 1254.52] For your servants hold her stones dear -[1254.52 --> 1256.00] And have pity on her dust -[1256.00 --> 1258.34] Nations will fear the name of the Lord -[1258.34 --> 1261.26] And all the kings of the earth will fear your glory -[1261.26 --> 1263.22] For the Lord builds up Zion -[1263.22 --> 1264.86] He appears in his glory -[1264.86 --> 1267.52] He regards the prayer of the destitute -[1267.52 --> 1270.04] And he does not despise their prayers -[1270.04 --> 1270.88] Under his alrededor -[1270.88 --> 1294.90] And all the -[1294.90 --> 1309.60] O Lord, hear -[1309.60 --> 1316.20] O Lord, forgive us -[1316.20 --> 1322.90] We have lost the awe of you -[1322.90 --> 1330.90] Have mercy, have mercy -[1330.90 --> 1339.10] O Lord, cleanse -[1339.10 --> 1344.98] Our hearts which are divided -[1344.98 --> 1352.88] Stir the faith that we once knew -[1352.88 --> 1359.88] We're thirsty, we're thirsty -[1359.88 --> 1366.88] O Lord, restore -[1366.88 --> 1374.88] The church that bears your name -[1374.88 --> 1382.88] O Spirit send -[1382.88 --> 1389.88] A revival to this nation -[1389.88 --> 1396.88] Breathe on us again -[1396.88 --> 1403.88] Breathe on us again -[1403.88 --> 1413.88] O Lord, hear -[1413.88 --> 1420.88] O Lord, forgive us -[1420.88 --> 1428.88] We have lost the awe of you -[1428.88 --> 1435.88] Have mercy, have mercy -[1435.88 --> 1445.88] O Lord, cleanse -[1445.88 --> 1449.88] Our hearts which are divided -[1449.88 --> 1457.88] Stir the faith that we once knew -[1457.88 --> 1464.88] We're thirsty, we're thirsty -[1464.88 --> 1465.88] We're thirsty -[1465.88 --> 1471.88] O Lord, restore -[1471.88 --> 1479.88] The church that bears your name -[1479.88 --> 1486.88] O Spirit send -[1486.88 --> 1487.88] O Spirit send -[1487.88 --> 1494.88] A revival to this nation -[1494.88 --> 1500.88] Breathe on us again -[1500.88 --> 1501.88] Breathe on us again -[1501.88 --> 1507.88] Breathe on us again -[1507.88 --> 1514.88] O Lord, restore -[1514.88 --> 1517.88] The church that bears your name -[1517.88 --> 1521.88] The church that bears your name -[1521.88 --> 1523.88] The church that bears your name -[1523.88 --> 1525.88] The church that bears your name -[1525.88 --> 1527.88] O Spirit send -[1527.88 --> 1529.88] A revival to this nation -[1529.88 --> 1531.88] Breathe on us again -[1531.88 --> 1544.88] Breathe on us again -[1544.88 --> 1550.88] Breathe on us again -[1550.88 --> 1560.88] Breathe on us again -[1580.88 --> 1597.88] We go data -[1597.88 --> 1602.88] Love and母 -[1602.88 --> 1618.62] When peace like a river attendeth my way, -[1618.62 --> 1628.86] When sorrows like sea billows roll, -[1628.86 --> 1641.72] Whatever my lot Thou hast taught me to say, -[1641.72 --> 1653.10] It is well, it is well with my soul. -[1653.10 --> 1662.10] It is well, it is well with my soul. -[1662.10 --> 1677.10] It is well, it is well with my soul. -[1677.10 --> 1689.10] Though Satan should buffet, Though trials should come, -[1689.10 --> 1698.10] Let this blessed assurance control. -[1698.10 --> 1712.10] That Christ has regarded my helpless estate, -[1712.10 --> 1724.10] And hath shed His own blood for my soul. -[1724.10 --> 1733.10] It is well, it is well with my soul. -[1733.10 --> 1748.10] With my soul it is well, it is well with my soul. -[1748.10 --> 1761.10] My sin, O the bliss of this glorious Lord, -[1761.10 --> 1774.10] My sin, O the bliss of this world. -[1774.10 --> 1779.10] It is well, it is well, it is well, -[1779.10 --> 1785.10] And I bear it no more. -[1785.10 --> 1797.10] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul. -[1797.10 --> 1809.10] It is well, it is well with my soul. -[1809.10 --> 1824.10] It is well, it is well with my soul. -[1824.10 --> 1837.10] O Lord, haste the day When my faith shall be sight, -[1837.10 --> 1849.10] The clouds be rolled back as a scroll. -[1849.10 --> 1859.10] The trump shall resound, And the Lord shall descend, -[1859.10 --> 1864.10] Even so, it is well with my soul. -[1864.10 --> 1874.10] It is well with my soul. -[1874.10 --> 1879.10] It is well, it is well, with my soul. -[1879.10 --> 1880.10] With my soul. -[1880.10 --> 1884.10] It is well, it is well, with my soul. -[1884.10 --> 1885.10] With my soul. -[1885.10 --> 1890.10] It is well, it is well, with my soul. -[1890.10 --> 1900.10] It is well, with my soul. -[1900.10 --> 1905.10] Please be seated. -[1905.10 --> 1930.10] Good morning. -[1930.10 --> 1935.10] Well, that's on my top ten for hymns. -[1935.10 --> 1940.10] Okay, today's offerings are for Emmanuel's ministries and missions, -[1940.10 --> 1947.10] And the special offering is for World Renew, refugee sponsorship and resettlement. -[1947.10 --> 1956.10] World Renew has been a sponsorship agreement holder with Immigration and Refugee Citizenship Canada since 1979. -[1956.10 --> 1972.10] World Renew partners with churches, individuals and refugee organizations to facilitate refugee sponsorships to Canada and to advocate for refugee rights globally. -[1972.10 --> 1985.10] World Renew is encouraged by the hard work of churches and communities like ours and others over the past 43 years of the program. -[1985.10 --> 1993.10] In sponsoring and helping to resettle refugees, new Canadians to a new home. -[1993.10 --> 1998.10] For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command. -[1998.10 --> 2000.10] Love your neighbor as yourself. -[2000.10 --> 2003.10] Galatians 5.14 -[2003.10 --> 2006.10] Leviticus 19.33-34 -[2006.10 --> 2012.10] For when a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. -[2012.10 --> 2018.10] The foreigner is residing among you who must be treated as your native born. -[2018.10 --> 2020.10] Love them as yourself. -[2020.10 --> 2023.10] For you were foreigners in Egypt. -[2023.10 --> 2025.10] I am the Lord your God. -[2025.10 --> 2027.10] I am the Lord your God. -[2027.10 --> 2057.08] We will feast in the house of sons. -[2057.10 --> 2063.36] We will sing with the hearts restored. -[2063.62 --> 2068.88] He has done great things we will say together. -[2069.44 --> 2075.20] We will feast and weep no more. -[2077.90 --> 2083.38] We will not be burned by the fire. -[2083.38 --> 2088.86] He is the Lord our God. -[2089.22 --> 2094.72] We are not consumed by the flood. -[2095.26 --> 2101.38] A hell protected gathered up. -[2102.40 --> 2107.30] We will feast in the house of Zion. -[2107.30 --> 2112.54] We will sing with the hearts restored. -[2112.88 --> 2117.30] He has done great things we will say together. -[2118.30 --> 2123.30] We will feast and weep no more. -[2123.30 --> 2131.30] In the dark of night before the dawn. -[2132.30 --> 2136.30] My soul be not afraid. -[2137.30 --> 2141.30] For the promised morning, oh how long. -[2141.30 --> 2149.30] Oh God of Jacob, be my strength. -[2150.30 --> 2155.14] We will feast in the house of Zion. -[2155.68 --> 2160.30] We will sing with our hearts restored. -[2160.64 --> 2165.54] He has done great things we will say together. -[2165.54 --> 2171.54] We will feast and weep no more. -[2174.54 --> 2178.54] Every vow we've broken and betrayed. -[2178.54 --> 2184.76] You are the faithful one. -[2184.76 --> 2189.54] And from the garden to the grave. -[2189.54 --> 2193.10] Bind us together. -[2193.10 --> 2197.66] And from the garden to the garden to the garden. -[2197.74 --> 2202.74] We will feast in the house of Zion. -[2202.88 --> 2203.66] We will feast in the house of Zion. -[2203.66 --> 2207.66] We will sing with our hearts restored. -[2208.08 --> 2212.54] He has done great things we will say together. -[2212.54 --> 2219.54] We will feast and weep no more. -[2237.98 --> 2238.84] All right. -[2238.84 --> 2243.14] Can we have all the kids up front for the kids' blessing? -[2263.14 --> 2263.72] All right. -[2263.84 --> 2266.28] I don't have much of a story for you guys today, -[2266.42 --> 2267.66] but before we do the blessing, -[2267.66 --> 2269.60] I kind of want to know how your summer's going. -[2271.42 --> 2272.56] Your summer's going good. -[2272.62 --> 2273.78] How about the rest of you guys? -[2274.56 --> 2275.20] How's the summer? -[2275.38 --> 2275.54] Yeah? -[2276.80 --> 2277.08] Yeah? -[2278.22 --> 2279.04] What would be, -[2279.22 --> 2280.62] maybe you can tell me, -[2280.72 --> 2281.58] a couple of you guys, -[2281.72 --> 2283.50] what your highlight of the summer's been so far. -[2283.56 --> 2284.30] What's been your highlight? -[2284.30 --> 2284.36] What's the highlight? -[2291.36 --> 2292.78] You made a garden this summer, -[2292.92 --> 2294.38] and the sun's helping it grow. -[2294.48 --> 2295.48] That sounds pretty cool. -[2296.82 --> 2298.60] So you don't have to go to the grocery store anymore? -[2298.70 --> 2300.12] You guys are just eating out of the garden? -[2300.12 --> 2300.44] Yeah. -[2300.68 --> 2301.14] Right on. -[2301.22 --> 2301.68] That's good. -[2302.88 --> 2304.12] You eat lots of carrots. -[2304.92 --> 2305.28] How about you? -[2305.34 --> 2306.76] What's the highlight of your summer so far? -[2306.76 --> 2307.76] What's the highlight of your summer? -[2312.62 --> 2314.06] Went to grandma's and went to the lake. -[2314.14 --> 2314.40] Olivia, -[2314.48 --> 2315.54] do you have a highlight of the summer? -[2317.78 --> 2319.20] You went camping and saw turtles. -[2319.28 --> 2319.92] Anybody else? -[2320.02 --> 2320.46] How about you? -[2321.14 --> 2322.44] What's the fun part of your summer? -[2323.24 --> 2324.34] You went to the Shushoff. -[2324.72 --> 2325.28] Right on. -[2325.36 --> 2325.88] Sounds good. -[2326.60 --> 2326.80] Well, -[2326.84 --> 2328.00] I'm glad you guys had a good summer, -[2328.10 --> 2330.32] because summer's almost over, -[2330.54 --> 2332.56] and some of you got to go back to school. -[2333.16 --> 2334.12] Maybe none of you guys. -[2334.12 --> 2335.46] Do any of you guys go to school yet? -[2336.34 --> 2336.70] You do? -[2336.84 --> 2337.24] Right on. -[2337.82 --> 2338.14] All right. -[2338.20 --> 2339.50] Let's stand up and do the blessing -[2339.50 --> 2342.16] that the rest of the congregation can join us. -[2347.04 --> 2347.40] Ready? -[2347.40 --> 2347.48] Ready? -[2348.02 --> 2350.76] The Lord be with you. -[2351.66 --> 2352.94] And all are with you. -[2364.12 --> 2385.02] Good morning. -[2385.12 --> 2385.76] My name is Glenn, -[2386.00 --> 2387.70] and I'm one of the elders here at Emmanuel. -[2388.32 --> 2390.08] It is my privilege to lead you -[2390.08 --> 2391.44] in our congregational prayer. -[2391.44 --> 2393.96] So let's go to the Lord in prayer. -[2396.98 --> 2397.76] Holy Father, -[2398.24 --> 2399.48] we thank you for the opportunity -[2399.48 --> 2401.80] to gather together as a local church family, -[2402.22 --> 2403.72] and to bring our thanksgiving, -[2404.12 --> 2404.76] our joys, -[2404.86 --> 2406.92] and our concerns before you in prayer. -[2407.84 --> 2408.94] Thank you for the assurance -[2408.94 --> 2410.64] that you hear all our prayers, -[2411.18 --> 2413.50] both individual prayers and corporate prayers, -[2413.78 --> 2416.62] and strengthen us to develop the discipline -[2416.62 --> 2418.12] to pray continually. -[2418.12 --> 2421.96] We give you thanks for all that you have done -[2421.96 --> 2423.12] for us in Christ Jesus, -[2423.66 --> 2426.74] and for the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives, -[2427.24 --> 2428.64] making us a new creation, -[2429.80 --> 2431.38] making us alive in Christ. -[2431.38 --> 2434.64] We ask that your Spirit will enable us -[2434.64 --> 2436.90] to reflect the glory and the light of Christ -[2436.90 --> 2438.28] in a dark world. -[2439.76 --> 2441.16] We pray for your blessing -[2441.16 --> 2442.74] in the ministries of this church. -[2443.74 --> 2446.02] We ask that these ministries will be effective -[2446.02 --> 2447.82] in bringing people to Christ -[2447.82 --> 2451.36] and in deepening our members' relationship with Christ. -[2451.36 --> 2454.66] Grant the leadership of this church wisdom -[2454.66 --> 2456.92] to discern your will for this church -[2456.92 --> 2459.28] and the courage to follow your leading. -[2460.50 --> 2461.20] Later this week, -[2461.24 --> 2462.70] we will meet to discuss and consider -[2462.70 --> 2464.56] how to minister to the young adults -[2464.56 --> 2465.78] in our church family. -[2466.48 --> 2469.04] We ask for your blessing on this ministry, -[2469.72 --> 2471.12] that it will effectively reach -[2471.12 --> 2474.22] and engage the young adults in our community. -[2474.22 --> 2478.08] We thank you for all of the staff -[2478.08 --> 2480.20] and volunteers of this church family -[2480.20 --> 2482.34] and their willingness to serve. -[2483.34 --> 2485.74] We ask that they experience your joy -[2485.74 --> 2487.02] as they serve -[2487.02 --> 2489.30] and grant them wisdom and strength -[2489.30 --> 2491.44] when they must deal with difficult situations. -[2492.82 --> 2495.46] Help our church to reflect your kingdom coming -[2495.46 --> 2496.76] here on earth. -[2496.76 --> 2499.72] We ask for your blessing -[2499.72 --> 2502.12] on Rachel Klingeltink and Kyle Thomas -[2502.12 --> 2504.48] as they prepare to be married later this week. -[2505.32 --> 2506.38] We ask that the wedding -[2506.38 --> 2508.16] will be a wonderful time of celebration. -[2509.30 --> 2511.40] We also ask that you go with them -[2511.40 --> 2513.38] as they begin their lives together. -[2516.52 --> 2518.56] We pray for the leaders who govern us, -[2519.18 --> 2521.82] the national, provincial, and municipal levels. -[2522.98 --> 2524.64] Their authority has been given by you. -[2524.64 --> 2526.78] Help them look to you -[2526.78 --> 2528.48] for guidance and direction. -[2529.72 --> 2531.94] Enable them to govern with hearts of service -[2531.94 --> 2533.36] for their constituents. -[2537.18 --> 2539.42] We continue to ask that you be with those -[2539.42 --> 2541.54] who are affected by war and violence -[2541.54 --> 2542.56] throughout the world. -[2543.48 --> 2546.06] Comfort those who mourn the loss of loved ones. -[2547.16 --> 2548.80] Watch over and provide for those -[2548.80 --> 2549.96] who have been displaced -[2549.96 --> 2551.64] because of war and violence. -[2551.64 --> 2555.12] Grant wisdom to governments and leaders -[2555.12 --> 2557.14] who can be agents of peace -[2557.14 --> 2558.90] in war-torn areas. -[2560.40 --> 2561.76] Change the hearts of those -[2561.76 --> 2566.20] who perpetrate violence and war -[2566.20 --> 2568.62] for their own selfish ambitions. -[2569.66 --> 2571.82] We pray for peace in the Ukraine -[2571.82 --> 2574.90] and wherever war and violence are occurring. -[2574.90 --> 2579.00] We continue to ask for your blessing -[2579.00 --> 2580.38] on the members of this church -[2580.38 --> 2581.24] who are on vacation. -[2582.14 --> 2583.88] We ask that they experience refreshment -[2583.88 --> 2585.80] and renewal as they take a break -[2585.80 --> 2586.92] from regular work. -[2588.14 --> 2589.58] Watch over them as they travel. -[2591.58 --> 2593.10] We thank you for your word -[2593.10 --> 2595.50] which is truly a lamp unto our feet -[2595.50 --> 2597.14] and a light for our path. -[2598.28 --> 2599.14] Bless Pastor Kevin -[2599.14 --> 2601.64] as he expands on your word this morning -[2601.64 --> 2604.72] so that its truth will reside deeply -[2604.72 --> 2605.88] in our hearts. -[2607.04 --> 2608.50] And as we enter a new week -[2608.50 --> 2611.04] equip us to honor and glorify you -[2611.04 --> 2612.22] in all we do and say -[2612.22 --> 2614.34] and keep us from sin. -[2615.18 --> 2616.64] Hear our prayer, O Lord. -[2617.28 --> 2617.56] Amen. -[2631.64 --> 2643.08] There's a famous man, -[2643.48 --> 2644.94] an historian, a philosopher, -[2645.12 --> 2646.50] a writer from the first century -[2646.50 --> 2647.94] by the name of Plutarch. -[2648.52 --> 2650.04] Maybe some of you have heard of him before. -[2650.38 --> 2651.86] I'm not really a historian myself -[2651.86 --> 2652.78] but I had heard of him -[2652.78 --> 2654.28] so he's got to be kind of a big deal. -[2655.14 --> 2656.26] Anyways, in one of his writings -[2656.26 --> 2658.78] titled Sayings of Kings and Commanders -[2658.78 --> 2660.78] he recounts this true story -[2660.78 --> 2664.40] which happened to King Philip II of Macedon. -[2664.46 --> 2665.38] Now King Philip II, -[2665.50 --> 2666.72] he was a very important king -[2666.72 --> 2668.16] who ruled Macedonia -[2668.16 --> 2671.10] from 359 to 336 BC. -[2671.66 --> 2673.88] And early on in King Philip II's reign -[2673.88 --> 2675.88] there was a woman in his kingdom -[2675.88 --> 2678.48] who came upon some really hard times. -[2679.06 --> 2680.74] Her husband had suddenly died -[2680.74 --> 2681.54] quite young -[2681.54 --> 2684.16] and she was left with no one in her life -[2684.16 --> 2685.08] to care for her. -[2685.68 --> 2686.56] On top of that, -[2686.64 --> 2687.56] when she was attending -[2687.56 --> 2689.20] to her husband's funeral, -[2689.20 --> 2690.82] everything she had -[2690.82 --> 2691.74] was stolen from her, -[2691.82 --> 2692.60] all her flocks -[2692.60 --> 2693.52] and her possessions -[2693.52 --> 2695.58] and she was left with nothing. -[2696.52 --> 2697.64] Nothing and no one. -[2697.76 --> 2699.14] So she went to see -[2699.14 --> 2700.16] King Philip II -[2700.16 --> 2701.08] to seek justice -[2701.08 --> 2702.08] and to seek some help. -[2703.44 --> 2704.58] But she was turned away. -[2705.22 --> 2706.54] So she went back the next day -[2706.54 --> 2707.04] and again -[2707.04 --> 2709.10] the guards turned her away. -[2709.26 --> 2710.72] Every day she went back -[2710.72 --> 2711.56] and every day -[2711.56 --> 2713.02] she was turned away -[2713.02 --> 2714.04] along with many others. -[2714.78 --> 2715.28] Now one day -[2715.28 --> 2716.08] when she approached -[2716.08 --> 2717.22] the palace -[2717.22 --> 2717.78] or wherever -[2717.78 --> 2718.52] the king happened -[2718.52 --> 2719.36] to be nearby -[2719.36 --> 2720.28] within earshot -[2720.28 --> 2721.36] and so she shouted out -[2721.36 --> 2722.36] let my troubles -[2722.36 --> 2723.78] be heard by you my king. -[2724.48 --> 2724.84] And the king -[2724.84 --> 2725.82] kind of was startled -[2725.82 --> 2726.72] and paused -[2726.72 --> 2727.16] and looked at her -[2727.16 --> 2727.40] and said -[2727.40 --> 2728.42] I have no time -[2728.42 --> 2729.28] to spare you. -[2730.38 --> 2731.02] Well immediately -[2731.02 --> 2732.10] and without flinching -[2732.10 --> 2732.58] she shouted -[2732.58 --> 2733.50] well then give up -[2733.50 --> 2734.18] being king. -[2736.02 --> 2737.10] Well Philip II -[2737.10 --> 2739.78] was taken aback by that. -[2739.98 --> 2740.72] He was quite amazed -[2740.72 --> 2741.68] by her boldness -[2741.68 --> 2743.86] and he sent everyone away -[2743.86 --> 2746.02] and listened to her at once. -[2746.60 --> 2747.48] He proceeded not only -[2747.48 --> 2748.50] to listen to her case -[2748.50 --> 2750.18] but also all of the others -[2750.18 --> 2750.86] who were around -[2750.86 --> 2751.36] and waiting -[2751.36 --> 2752.96] and provided her justice. -[2753.10 --> 2754.06] Now King Philip II -[2754.06 --> 2755.74] he took this nation -[2755.74 --> 2757.48] whom he apparently cared for -[2757.48 --> 2758.40] and he conquered Greece -[2758.40 --> 2759.44] and he became the father -[2759.44 --> 2761.04] of Alexander the Great -[2761.04 --> 2762.62] who I'm sure most of us know -[2762.62 --> 2763.52] who ended up conquering -[2763.52 --> 2764.68] most of the known world -[2764.68 --> 2765.86] in the decades to follow -[2765.86 --> 2766.70] and thus ends -[2766.70 --> 2767.54] today's history lesson. -[2767.92 --> 2769.02] This story though -[2769.02 --> 2771.14] which is documented -[2771.14 --> 2772.58] in many places -[2772.58 --> 2773.58] in historical literature -[2773.58 --> 2775.12] is a very similar story -[2775.12 --> 2775.56] to the one -[2775.56 --> 2775.98] that we're going -[2775.98 --> 2776.90] to look at today -[2776.90 --> 2777.60] the parable -[2777.60 --> 2779.88] of the persistent widow. -[2780.12 --> 2780.58] Now we're going to look -[2780.58 --> 2781.62] at that text today -[2781.62 --> 2782.66] and we're going to -[2782.66 --> 2783.34] as we continue -[2783.34 --> 2784.48] sort of this sermon series -[2784.48 --> 2785.34] we've been working on -[2785.34 --> 2786.10] on the parables. -[2786.74 --> 2787.56] This story it's found -[2787.56 --> 2788.64] in Luke chapter 18 -[2788.64 --> 2789.96] so if you have your Bibles -[2789.96 --> 2790.98] or your phone apps -[2790.98 --> 2791.32] or whatever -[2791.32 --> 2792.80] please open it up. -[2793.02 --> 2793.92] Luke chapter 18 -[2793.92 --> 2794.92] verses 1 to 8 -[2794.92 --> 2795.56] we're going to be -[2795.56 --> 2796.22] going back to it -[2796.22 --> 2796.96] so I do encourage you -[2796.96 --> 2797.58] to have that open -[2797.58 --> 2799.14] with you today. -[2800.02 --> 2801.06] So Luke 18 -[2801.06 --> 2801.66] 1 to 8 -[2801.66 --> 2802.22] this morning -[2802.22 --> 2803.00] says this -[2803.00 --> 2803.56] we read -[2803.56 --> 2805.38] Then Jesus -[2805.38 --> 2806.70] told his disciples -[2806.70 --> 2807.32] a parable -[2807.32 --> 2808.08] to show them -[2808.08 --> 2808.56] that they should -[2808.56 --> 2809.44] always pray -[2809.44 --> 2810.60] and not give up. -[2811.34 --> 2811.70] He said -[2811.70 --> 2812.68] in a certain town -[2812.68 --> 2813.62] there was a judge -[2813.62 --> 2815.00] who neither feared God -[2815.00 --> 2815.60] nor cared -[2815.60 --> 2816.92] what people thought -[2816.92 --> 2818.46] and there was a widow -[2818.46 --> 2819.38] in that town -[2819.38 --> 2820.54] who kept coming to him -[2820.54 --> 2821.10] with the plea -[2821.10 --> 2822.60] grant me justice -[2822.60 --> 2824.30] against my adversary. -[2825.44 --> 2826.12] For some time -[2826.12 --> 2826.72] he refused -[2826.72 --> 2827.40] but finally -[2827.40 --> 2828.16] he said to himself -[2828.16 --> 2828.68] even though -[2828.68 --> 2829.50] I don't fear God -[2829.50 --> 2830.86] or care what people think -[2830.86 --> 2832.46] yet because this widow -[2832.46 --> 2833.70] keeps bothering me -[2833.70 --> 2835.76] I will see that she gets justice -[2835.76 --> 2837.44] so that she won't -[2837.44 --> 2838.30] eventually come -[2838.30 --> 2839.54] and attack me. -[2841.04 --> 2842.20] And the Lord said -[2842.20 --> 2843.18] listen to what -[2843.18 --> 2845.26] the unjust judge says -[2845.26 --> 2846.96] and will not God -[2846.96 --> 2847.88] bring about justice -[2847.88 --> 2848.84] for his chosen ones -[2848.84 --> 2850.08] who cry out to him -[2850.08 --> 2850.72] day and night? -[2851.02 --> 2851.58] Will he keep -[2851.58 --> 2852.50] putting them off? -[2853.50 --> 2854.02] I tell you -[2854.02 --> 2854.82] he will see that -[2854.82 --> 2855.62] they get justice -[2855.62 --> 2856.26] and quickly. -[2857.54 --> 2857.84] However -[2857.84 --> 2859.22] when the Son of Man -[2859.22 --> 2859.90] comes -[2859.90 --> 2862.04] will he find faith -[2862.04 --> 2863.28] on the earth? -[2864.94 --> 2866.12] The word of the Lord. -[2868.42 --> 2869.52] Now in some ways -[2869.52 --> 2870.08] this parable -[2870.08 --> 2870.60] might seem -[2870.60 --> 2871.68] fairly straightforward. -[2871.90 --> 2872.34] Luke even -[2872.34 --> 2873.70] introduces it -[2873.70 --> 2874.32] for us -[2874.32 --> 2874.86] telling us -[2874.86 --> 2875.50] that it's a parable -[2875.50 --> 2876.96] about praying -[2876.96 --> 2878.18] and about not giving up. -[2878.86 --> 2879.80] It seems like -[2879.80 --> 2880.94] on a quick surface read -[2880.94 --> 2881.46] this is an -[2881.46 --> 2882.80] ask and you shall receive -[2882.80 --> 2883.56] type of thing. -[2883.56 --> 2885.52] Think about it. -[2885.62 --> 2887.14] It can't really be that. -[2887.18 --> 2887.84] Is that what Jesus -[2887.84 --> 2888.42] is saying? -[2889.12 --> 2890.24] If we ask for something -[2890.24 --> 2891.34] enough we'll just get it? -[2892.68 --> 2894.02] That just doesn't seem right. -[2894.08 --> 2895.34] That doesn't seem true. -[2895.82 --> 2896.56] It doesn't seem -[2896.56 --> 2897.62] historically accurate -[2897.62 --> 2898.22] in my life. -[2898.34 --> 2899.04] Perhaps it doesn't seem -[2899.04 --> 2900.20] historically accurate -[2900.20 --> 2900.96] in your life. -[2901.18 --> 2902.22] I'm going to illustrate this. -[2902.28 --> 2903.28] Are there any kids left? -[2903.50 --> 2904.18] And if there's not -[2904.18 --> 2905.68] are there any older kids left? -[2905.88 --> 2906.58] I've got candy. -[2906.66 --> 2907.06] You're going to want -[2907.06 --> 2907.44] to come up. -[2907.80 --> 2908.78] So kids come up front here. -[2908.84 --> 2909.56] Stand in front here. -[2909.60 --> 2910.86] I want to illustrate -[2910.86 --> 2912.10] this point for a second. -[2912.74 --> 2913.14] Here see? -[2913.36 --> 2913.64] Candy. -[2913.76 --> 2914.68] It's in this jar. -[2914.80 --> 2915.28] If you come up -[2915.28 --> 2915.70] you get some. -[2915.76 --> 2916.32] That's a bribe. -[2916.96 --> 2917.24] Ready? -[2918.00 --> 2918.72] Yeah here we go. -[2918.78 --> 2919.14] Here we go. -[2919.50 --> 2920.18] This is going to be good. -[2920.98 --> 2921.96] I'm going to sit right here. -[2922.80 --> 2923.60] You don't have to come -[2923.60 --> 2924.40] on stage or anything -[2924.40 --> 2925.22] but I have a question -[2925.22 --> 2925.66] for you. -[2926.30 --> 2927.02] Let's pretend -[2927.02 --> 2928.00] and remember -[2928.00 --> 2929.44] this is very much -[2929.44 --> 2930.12] only pretend. -[2930.56 --> 2931.10] Let's pretend -[2931.10 --> 2932.56] I'm one of your parents -[2932.56 --> 2933.50] and you know -[2933.50 --> 2934.38] that I've got candy -[2934.38 --> 2935.14] in this jar -[2935.14 --> 2936.08] and let's say -[2936.08 --> 2937.02] that you want some. -[2937.22 --> 2937.90] What would you do? -[2937.90 --> 2940.82] Yeah you would ask -[2940.82 --> 2941.28] can I have some -[2941.28 --> 2941.66] and I would say -[2941.66 --> 2942.42] yeah sure here you go. -[2943.32 --> 2944.14] You want one too? -[2945.02 --> 2945.96] You don't like candy? -[2946.04 --> 2946.42] That's okay. -[2946.74 --> 2947.70] I'm glad you came up anyways. -[2947.80 --> 2948.64] Anybody else want some? -[2948.76 --> 2948.84] Here. -[2949.52 --> 2949.68] Yeah? -[2950.36 --> 2951.30] Okay so let's say -[2951.30 --> 2952.66] you've asked -[2952.66 --> 2953.98] and let's say -[2953.98 --> 2954.80] you've taken one -[2954.80 --> 2956.96] and then let's say -[2956.96 --> 2957.86] you get maybe -[2957.86 --> 2959.08] a little bit greedy -[2959.08 --> 2959.78] and you're like -[2959.78 --> 2960.48] oh you know what -[2960.48 --> 2961.20] one was good. -[2961.64 --> 2962.42] I want another one. -[2962.64 --> 2963.18] What would you do? -[2964.70 --> 2965.78] Yeah you would ask again -[2965.78 --> 2965.96] right? -[2966.02 --> 2966.26] You'd be like -[2966.26 --> 2966.92] hey can I have another one -[2966.92 --> 2967.70] but what if I said no? -[2967.90 --> 2968.44] One's enough? -[2970.28 --> 2970.88] You'd say okay -[2970.88 --> 2971.60] but what if you really -[2971.60 --> 2972.36] wanted that candy? -[2973.26 --> 2974.14] And then you'd ask again -[2974.14 --> 2974.52] and be like -[2974.52 --> 2975.54] could I have another one though? -[2975.72 --> 2976.16] I'd be like no. -[2976.24 --> 2976.70] I said no. -[2977.12 --> 2978.12] You said but I want another one. -[2978.16 --> 2978.88] Could I have another one? -[2979.18 --> 2979.84] Would your parents -[2979.84 --> 2981.04] give you a second candy -[2981.04 --> 2982.22] if you just kept asking -[2982.22 --> 2982.98] and asking and asking? -[2983.80 --> 2984.54] No they wouldn't. -[2984.72 --> 2985.10] In fact -[2985.10 --> 2986.18] if your parents are like me -[2986.18 --> 2986.64] they might even take -[2986.64 --> 2987.30] that first one away -[2987.30 --> 2987.56] and be like -[2987.56 --> 2988.20] nah you're being greedy -[2988.20 --> 2988.80] you don't even get one. -[2989.14 --> 2990.12] I'm not your parents though -[2990.12 --> 2990.68] so you can have -[2990.68 --> 2991.34] as many as you want. -[2994.46 --> 2995.72] But the point stands right? -[2995.76 --> 2996.50] Let's not be too greedy. -[2996.58 --> 2997.36] Make sure everybody gets some. -[2997.36 --> 2998.12] Make sure everybody gets some. -[2999.26 --> 3000.28] Who hasn't got more? -[3001.18 --> 3001.76] Sorry church -[3001.76 --> 3002.20] you're just going to have -[3002.20 --> 3003.02] to be patient for a second. -[3004.38 --> 3005.16] Alright there we go. -[3005.22 --> 3005.96] If you've got a few -[3005.96 --> 3006.96] then you can head on -[3006.96 --> 3007.66] back to your seat. -[3012.78 --> 3013.94] They left two church. -[3014.06 --> 3014.86] Anybody want one? -[3017.36 --> 3018.06] Coming in the middle. -[3018.06 --> 3018.16] Come in. -[3018.16 --> 3018.24] Come in. -[3018.24 --> 3018.34] Come in. -[3018.34 --> 3018.36] Come in. -[3018.36 --> 3018.42] Come in. -[3018.42 --> 3018.48] Come in. -[3018.48 --> 3018.54] Come in. -[3018.54 --> 3018.60] Come in. -[3018.60 --> 3018.90] Come in. -[3018.90 --> 3018.98] Come in. -[3018.98 --> 3019.48] Come in. -[3019.48 --> 3020.48] Come in. -[3020.48 --> 3020.98] Come in. -[3020.98 --> 3021.98] Come in. -[3021.98 --> 3022.98] Come in. -[3022.98 --> 3023.98] Come in. -[3023.98 --> 3024.98] Come in. -[3024.98 --> 3025.98] Come in. -[3025.98 --> 3026.98] Come in. -[3026.98 --> 3028.86] You don't just get what you want -[3028.86 --> 3030.78] if you keep asking for what you want. -[3030.88 --> 3031.92] We see that with children. -[3031.92 --> 3033.08] If you're a parent. -[3033.28 --> 3034.08] If you're a grandparent. -[3034.28 --> 3035.26] If you're an uncle or an aunt. -[3035.42 --> 3036.58] Actually maybe not a grandparent. -[3036.64 --> 3037.74] It seems like the grandparents -[3037.74 --> 3039.08] of my kids cave all the time -[3039.08 --> 3040.36] when my kids keep asking for stuff. -[3040.68 --> 3041.58] But the point is -[3041.58 --> 3043.46] just because we're persistent -[3043.46 --> 3044.30] when we ask -[3044.30 --> 3045.30] it doesn't mean -[3045.30 --> 3046.82] that you get what you want. -[3046.88 --> 3047.70] In fact it can become -[3047.70 --> 3048.56] hugely selfish. -[3048.74 --> 3049.62] And that cannot be -[3049.62 --> 3050.58] the point -[3050.58 --> 3051.94] of this parable. -[3052.90 --> 3053.42] And yet perhaps -[3053.42 --> 3054.56] that's how we read this passage. -[3054.68 --> 3055.82] We hear these words -[3055.82 --> 3056.18] and we say -[3056.18 --> 3057.36] God I want that job. -[3058.02 --> 3059.08] Or I want that house. -[3059.80 --> 3060.76] Or that scholarship. -[3061.22 --> 3062.04] Or that spouse. -[3062.28 --> 3063.04] Or health. -[3063.36 --> 3064.42] Or I want this car. -[3064.86 --> 3065.90] Or whatever it is. -[3066.00 --> 3066.50] And you said -[3066.50 --> 3068.12] if I keep asking God -[3068.12 --> 3069.46] you would give it to me. -[3069.58 --> 3070.58] If I was persistent -[3070.58 --> 3071.36] like that widow -[3071.36 --> 3072.56] you would give it to me. -[3072.90 --> 3074.06] So why don't I have it yet? -[3076.22 --> 3076.90] But that's not -[3076.90 --> 3077.98] what this parable is about. -[3079.46 --> 3080.36] Despite maybe -[3080.36 --> 3082.20] what some prosperity preachers -[3082.20 --> 3083.20] like Joel Osteen -[3083.20 --> 3083.58] or others -[3083.58 --> 3084.20] would make you think -[3084.20 --> 3084.92] this is not how -[3084.92 --> 3086.86] the kingdom of God works. -[3087.24 --> 3088.04] You don't just get -[3088.04 --> 3088.86] what you want -[3088.86 --> 3090.40] if you pray for it enough. -[3093.34 --> 3094.62] This parable is not about -[3094.62 --> 3096.38] praying for what we want -[3096.38 --> 3097.34] or even praying -[3097.34 --> 3098.36] for what we need. -[3099.06 --> 3099.88] It's about being -[3099.88 --> 3101.52] persistent in prayer -[3101.52 --> 3102.78] so that God will give us -[3102.78 --> 3103.84] it's not about -[3103.84 --> 3104.80] being persistent in prayer -[3104.80 --> 3105.80] so that God will give us -[3105.80 --> 3106.78] what we're asking for -[3106.78 --> 3108.30] regardless if it's important -[3108.30 --> 3109.34] or selfless -[3109.34 --> 3109.92] or healthy. -[3111.28 --> 3112.76] This parable is about -[3112.76 --> 3114.26] us being persistent -[3114.26 --> 3115.38] in our faith -[3115.38 --> 3117.18] no matter the context -[3117.18 --> 3118.32] we find ourselves in. -[3119.32 --> 3120.54] And when we're persistent -[3120.54 --> 3121.26] in our faith -[3121.26 --> 3122.70] we root ourselves -[3122.70 --> 3123.44] in the hope -[3123.44 --> 3125.38] found in God's promises -[3125.38 --> 3125.94] for us. -[3126.80 --> 3127.48] We're going to look -[3127.48 --> 3127.96] at this parable -[3127.96 --> 3128.54] a little closer. -[3128.90 --> 3129.68] There's a few characters -[3129.68 --> 3130.50] that need fleshing out -[3130.50 --> 3131.14] maybe a little bit -[3131.14 --> 3131.94] so we'll look at -[3131.94 --> 3132.56] the widow first. -[3132.70 --> 3133.48] She's sort of the title -[3133.48 --> 3134.46] character after all. -[3134.80 --> 3136.00] Now in the ancient Near East -[3136.00 --> 3137.64] a widow was often left -[3137.64 --> 3138.88] with no means of support. -[3139.74 --> 3140.38] Widows were left -[3140.38 --> 3141.30] with essentially -[3141.30 --> 3142.38] one of two options -[3142.38 --> 3143.28] but both of them -[3143.28 --> 3143.90] were not ideal. -[3144.68 --> 3145.36] They could remain -[3145.36 --> 3146.60] in their husband's family -[3146.60 --> 3148.04] but they would have -[3148.04 --> 3148.84] at that point -[3148.84 --> 3150.72] maintained a borderline -[3150.72 --> 3151.98] servant type position -[3151.98 --> 3153.12] or if they returned -[3153.12 --> 3154.32] to their original family -[3154.32 --> 3155.34] all of the money -[3155.34 --> 3156.46] exchanged at the marriage -[3156.46 --> 3157.40] would have to be given back -[3157.40 --> 3158.26] and she would once again -[3158.26 --> 3159.70] be left with nothing. -[3159.84 --> 3161.14] So widows were victimized -[3161.14 --> 3162.14] to the point -[3162.14 --> 3162.76] that they would often -[3162.76 --> 3164.18] be sold as slaves -[3164.18 --> 3165.44] to repay a debt. -[3165.50 --> 3166.34] It was very brutal. -[3167.76 --> 3169.08] Now despite all of this -[3169.08 --> 3170.72] care for the widow -[3170.72 --> 3171.96] was something that -[3171.96 --> 3172.94] God expected -[3172.94 --> 3173.86] from his people. -[3174.78 --> 3175.78] There's countless verses -[3175.78 --> 3176.58] in the Old Testament -[3176.58 --> 3177.52] where God calls -[3177.52 --> 3178.12] on his people -[3178.12 --> 3179.20] especially leaders -[3179.20 --> 3179.72] and judges -[3179.72 --> 3181.54] to look favorably -[3181.54 --> 3182.60] upon widows. -[3183.12 --> 3183.80] In fact if you want -[3183.80 --> 3184.50] to know who God -[3184.50 --> 3186.26] considered vulnerable people -[3186.26 --> 3186.94] if you want to know -[3186.94 --> 3188.12] who God considered -[3188.12 --> 3189.02] the least of these -[3189.02 --> 3189.78] it's the trilogy -[3189.78 --> 3190.36] of the widow -[3190.36 --> 3190.86] the orphan -[3190.86 --> 3191.68] and the stranger. -[3192.72 --> 3193.94] There are over 80 verses -[3193.94 --> 3195.80] directly referencing -[3195.80 --> 3197.20] care for widows -[3197.20 --> 3197.84] in the scriptures -[3197.84 --> 3198.98] and almost all of them -[3198.98 --> 3200.10] also include orphans -[3200.10 --> 3201.12] and strangers -[3201.12 --> 3202.28] as well. -[3202.36 --> 3203.54] God has a huge heart -[3203.54 --> 3204.40] for the vulnerable -[3204.40 --> 3205.36] and the oppressed -[3205.36 --> 3206.18] a huge heart -[3206.18 --> 3206.76] for the widow. -[3208.78 --> 3209.30] Unfortunately -[3209.30 --> 3210.54] while information -[3210.54 --> 3211.96] about the judicial systems -[3211.96 --> 3212.66] functioning in -[3212.66 --> 3213.64] first century Palestine -[3213.64 --> 3214.48] were a little spotty -[3214.48 --> 3215.12] for me to find -[3215.12 --> 3216.28] what wasn't hard -[3216.28 --> 3217.02] to learn -[3217.02 --> 3218.12] was that despite -[3218.12 --> 3219.44] the desperate situation -[3219.44 --> 3220.64] that many widows -[3220.64 --> 3221.22] would have faced -[3221.22 --> 3221.92] in that time -[3221.92 --> 3223.80] their cares often fell -[3223.80 --> 3225.24] upon unsympathetic judges -[3225.24 --> 3226.22] that ruled over them. -[3226.86 --> 3227.44] Judges that would -[3227.44 --> 3228.86] take bribes -[3228.86 --> 3229.92] instead of seek to help. -[3230.12 --> 3230.90] And in this parable -[3230.90 --> 3232.00] this is how this plays out. -[3232.74 --> 3233.08] The widow -[3233.08 --> 3234.12] who's the clear picture -[3234.12 --> 3234.54] of the one -[3234.54 --> 3235.16] who needs help -[3235.16 --> 3236.02] is overlooked -[3236.02 --> 3236.80] by this judge -[3236.80 --> 3238.02] over and over -[3238.02 --> 3239.04] and over again. -[3239.18 --> 3239.66] And so instead -[3239.66 --> 3240.64] of just taking -[3240.64 --> 3241.54] the uninterested -[3241.54 --> 3242.46] shoulder shrugs -[3242.46 --> 3243.08] that the judge -[3243.08 --> 3243.96] is dishing out to her -[3243.96 --> 3245.02] she persists. -[3246.32 --> 3247.18] Now notice this too -[3247.18 --> 3248.54] unlike many pictures -[3248.54 --> 3249.14] maybe you see -[3249.14 --> 3249.94] in children's books -[3249.94 --> 3251.10] or on the table -[3251.10 --> 3251.84] in the back there -[3251.84 --> 3252.56] this widow -[3252.56 --> 3253.48] likely didn't just -[3253.48 --> 3254.88] quietly keep showing up -[3254.88 --> 3255.78] and sitting in the corner. -[3255.78 --> 3257.80] I think for those of us -[3257.80 --> 3258.16] who have heard -[3258.16 --> 3259.26] this parable before -[3259.26 --> 3260.40] we often have -[3260.40 --> 3260.94] this picture -[3260.94 --> 3262.08] of a sweet old lady -[3262.08 --> 3262.88] sitting in the corner -[3262.88 --> 3263.28] knitting -[3263.28 --> 3264.68] just hoping that the judge -[3264.68 --> 3265.54] might pay some attention -[3265.54 --> 3265.98] to her. -[3266.54 --> 3267.38] Constantly just being -[3267.38 --> 3267.90] a presence -[3267.90 --> 3269.86] in the corner -[3269.86 --> 3270.70] but that's not the case. -[3271.76 --> 3273.40] This judge relents. -[3273.50 --> 3274.42] He finally caves -[3274.42 --> 3275.00] to the widow -[3275.00 --> 3276.60] because he's worried -[3276.60 --> 3277.66] she will attack him. -[3278.54 --> 3279.70] That's what the NIV says. -[3280.36 --> 3281.24] Other translations -[3281.24 --> 3282.28] indicate that she's getting -[3282.28 --> 3283.24] or this judge story -[3283.24 --> 3283.92] is getting tired -[3283.92 --> 3284.88] of being berated. -[3285.24 --> 3286.08] She's just causing him -[3286.08 --> 3286.74] too much grief -[3286.74 --> 3287.68] too much stress -[3287.68 --> 3288.46] too much of a headache -[3288.46 --> 3289.76] and the judge finally snaps. -[3291.10 --> 3292.26] She's not a sweet -[3292.26 --> 3293.26] quiet old lady. -[3294.34 --> 3295.82] She is demanding justice. -[3296.08 --> 3297.48] She is demanding change. -[3297.54 --> 3298.32] She is confident -[3298.32 --> 3299.38] that this judge -[3299.38 --> 3300.36] can change her future -[3300.36 --> 3301.22] and she is not -[3301.22 --> 3302.18] quietly present. -[3302.52 --> 3303.82] She is a presence -[3303.82 --> 3305.42] in the face of this judge. -[3306.82 --> 3307.36] And so the fudge -[3307.36 --> 3308.28] the fudge -[3308.28 --> 3310.70] the judge finally caves. -[3310.70 --> 3313.98] So let's look at this judge -[3313.98 --> 3314.50] for a second. -[3314.78 --> 3315.50] Now he's described -[3315.50 --> 3317.02] as a man who doesn't fear God -[3317.02 --> 3317.80] or even care -[3317.80 --> 3318.80] what men think of him. -[3318.86 --> 3319.36] He's a bully -[3319.36 --> 3320.94] which we see in both -[3320.94 --> 3321.54] his actions -[3321.54 --> 3322.52] and his description. -[3323.08 --> 3324.40] He's described as unjust -[3324.40 --> 3325.10] and selfish -[3325.10 --> 3326.62] and yet eventually -[3326.62 --> 3328.40] he rules in favor -[3328.40 --> 3329.04] of this widow. -[3330.54 --> 3331.70] The judge can't handle -[3331.70 --> 3332.30] the rebuking -[3332.30 --> 3332.88] the noise -[3332.88 --> 3333.62] the nagging -[3333.62 --> 3334.68] the aggression -[3334.68 --> 3335.98] of this widow -[3335.98 --> 3336.84] and so he resents -[3336.84 --> 3338.20] and rules in favor -[3338.20 --> 3338.80] of her -[3338.80 --> 3339.82] giving her the justice -[3339.82 --> 3340.68] that she seeks. -[3341.00 --> 3342.56] Finally doing the right thing -[3342.56 --> 3343.66] even if it's for all -[3343.66 --> 3344.30] the wrong reasons. -[3346.58 --> 3347.86] And then to our benefit -[3347.86 --> 3349.76] Luke actually tells us -[3349.76 --> 3351.22] who these two people represent. -[3352.12 --> 3353.88] He says that God's chosen people -[3353.88 --> 3354.48] the believers -[3354.48 --> 3355.30] his children -[3355.30 --> 3356.32] are the widow -[3356.32 --> 3358.00] and that God -[3358.00 --> 3358.96] is the judge. -[3360.42 --> 3361.54] It means that we -[3361.54 --> 3362.70] are the aggressive ones. -[3362.84 --> 3363.50] We are the ones -[3363.50 --> 3364.62] clamoring for God -[3364.62 --> 3365.84] to change our futures -[3365.84 --> 3367.64] to change the future. -[3367.64 --> 3368.84] And Jesus here -[3368.84 --> 3369.60] doesn't say -[3369.60 --> 3370.62] we should stop -[3370.62 --> 3371.12] notice. -[3372.46 --> 3373.90] He doesn't call us -[3373.90 --> 3374.72] to be quiet -[3374.72 --> 3376.54] make quiet little appeals -[3376.54 --> 3377.60] be quietly sitting -[3377.60 --> 3378.12] in the corner. -[3378.24 --> 3378.98] He doesn't say -[3378.98 --> 3380.20] we need to be more kind -[3380.20 --> 3381.18] in our requests -[3381.18 --> 3382.68] or to wait in silence -[3382.68 --> 3383.44] as he works. -[3383.56 --> 3383.70] No. -[3384.24 --> 3385.16] When we're hurt -[3385.16 --> 3386.40] we're allowed -[3386.40 --> 3387.76] to cry out to God. -[3388.18 --> 3389.24] When things are unjust -[3389.24 --> 3390.72] we can shout at him. -[3391.40 --> 3392.70] When we need to lament -[3392.70 --> 3393.74] or cry out -[3393.74 --> 3395.38] or scream in frustration -[3395.38 --> 3396.86] because our adversaries -[3396.86 --> 3397.62] are piling up -[3397.62 --> 3398.20] be them people -[3398.20 --> 3398.74] or problems -[3398.74 --> 3399.76] we find ourselves in -[3399.76 --> 3400.86] we should lament -[3400.86 --> 3401.70] but we should lament -[3401.70 --> 3402.24] to him. -[3402.82 --> 3403.42] We should lament -[3403.42 --> 3404.48] to our God. -[3405.14 --> 3405.88] Not rant -[3405.88 --> 3406.88] to our echo chambers -[3406.88 --> 3407.86] that we find online -[3407.86 --> 3408.96] or chatter with -[3408.96 --> 3409.76] our gossip groups -[3409.76 --> 3410.48] that we meet with -[3410.48 --> 3410.98] for coffee -[3410.98 --> 3412.18] but to God. -[3413.28 --> 3414.10] That's what he's -[3414.10 --> 3414.78] calling us to do -[3414.78 --> 3415.84] to be persistent -[3415.84 --> 3416.90] in faith -[3416.90 --> 3417.78] to him -[3417.78 --> 3418.82] no matter what. -[3420.02 --> 3421.50] He's inviting us -[3421.50 --> 3422.88] to be persistent -[3422.88 --> 3424.40] not just quietly -[3424.40 --> 3425.78] but vocally -[3425.78 --> 3427.70] because he is there. -[3430.70 --> 3432.00] And he's not just -[3432.00 --> 3432.96] ignoring us -[3432.96 --> 3434.28] for a season -[3434.28 --> 3436.90] like this unjust judge was. -[3440.52 --> 3442.32] Notice what verse 6 and 7 say. -[3442.42 --> 3444.78] Listen to what the unjust judge says -[3444.78 --> 3446.90] and will not God -[3446.90 --> 3448.36] bring about justice -[3448.36 --> 3449.40] for his chosen ones -[3449.40 --> 3450.64] who cry to him -[3450.64 --> 3451.68] day and night. -[3451.68 --> 3452.64] Will he keep -[3452.64 --> 3453.60] putting them on? -[3455.24 --> 3456.66] This parable is teaching us -[3456.66 --> 3459.12] that even this unjust judge -[3459.12 --> 3460.64] eventually brings out -[3460.64 --> 3461.68] justice for this widow. -[3462.26 --> 3463.64] So imagine what God -[3463.64 --> 3464.46] will do for you. -[3466.62 --> 3467.92] This judge in the parable -[3467.92 --> 3468.46] is a schmo -[3468.46 --> 3469.44] but God -[3469.44 --> 3470.84] he is so much -[3470.84 --> 3471.60] greater -[3471.60 --> 3472.76] and the Psalms -[3472.76 --> 3473.46] describe him -[3473.46 --> 3474.00] beautifully. -[3474.36 --> 3475.68] Check out what the Psalms -[3475.68 --> 3476.52] describe God as. -[3476.76 --> 3478.16] Our God is loving. -[3478.96 --> 3480.22] Our God is righteous. -[3480.22 --> 3482.18] Our God is powerful. -[3482.78 --> 3484.02] Our God is just. -[3484.44 --> 3485.50] Our God is compassionate. -[3486.18 --> 3487.10] Our God is good. -[3488.06 --> 3489.06] Our God is merciful. -[3489.90 --> 3490.92] Our God is strong. -[3491.72 --> 3492.48] That's just one book -[3492.48 --> 3492.96] of the Bible. -[3494.08 --> 3495.38] Our God is an ever-present -[3495.38 --> 3496.76] help in times of trouble. -[3496.88 --> 3498.42] That's what Psalm 46.1 says. -[3498.62 --> 3499.70] The question isn't -[3499.70 --> 3502.00] will God be there for us -[3502.00 --> 3504.48] or will God provide for us? -[3505.48 --> 3507.14] Our God is so much bigger -[3507.14 --> 3507.82] and greater -[3507.82 --> 3508.50] and gentler -[3508.50 --> 3509.32] and powerful -[3509.32 --> 3510.22] and more loving -[3510.22 --> 3511.60] than we can imagine. -[3511.72 --> 3512.86] He is there for you -[3512.86 --> 3513.54] no matter what. -[3516.82 --> 3517.86] Now while -[3517.86 --> 3519.60] he is there for you -[3519.60 --> 3521.60] as we discussed earlier -[3521.60 --> 3523.50] he is not some genie -[3523.50 --> 3524.28] who is available -[3524.28 --> 3525.46] to answer any wish -[3525.46 --> 3526.12] you may have -[3526.12 --> 3527.36] if you only ask him -[3527.36 --> 3527.94] enough times. -[3528.38 --> 3529.36] That is not what -[3529.36 --> 3530.40] this parable is getting at. -[3530.62 --> 3531.56] This parable is not -[3531.56 --> 3532.48] teaching his disciples -[3532.48 --> 3533.30] to pray for stuff -[3533.30 --> 3534.10] and you'll get it. -[3534.10 --> 3534.26] No. -[3534.94 --> 3535.66] This parable -[3535.66 --> 3537.96] Jesus is telling -[3537.96 --> 3538.52] the disciples -[3538.52 --> 3539.56] that when they pray -[3539.56 --> 3540.52] for what they need -[3540.52 --> 3541.64] for love -[3541.64 --> 3542.46] for hope -[3542.46 --> 3543.40] for justice -[3543.40 --> 3544.06] for shalom -[3544.06 --> 3545.34] that it's coming. -[3546.38 --> 3547.60] It is coming. -[3547.72 --> 3548.76] They will receive it. -[3548.96 --> 3550.26] It may take some time -[3550.26 --> 3550.86] but they -[3550.86 --> 3552.10] and they may need -[3552.10 --> 3552.84] to wait for it. -[3553.26 --> 3554.12] They might even feel -[3554.12 --> 3555.22] like it's taking too long -[3555.22 --> 3557.40] but it is coming. -[3561.40 --> 3562.40] Brothers and sisters -[3562.40 --> 3562.88] here today -[3562.88 --> 3563.94] Jesus is teaching us -[3563.94 --> 3565.10] the same thing. -[3566.24 --> 3567.26] If we wait -[3567.26 --> 3567.92] on the Lord -[3567.92 --> 3568.64] he will renew -[3568.64 --> 3569.74] our strength. -[3570.06 --> 3570.46] Our God -[3570.46 --> 3571.52] our affectionate -[3571.52 --> 3572.26] righteous -[3572.26 --> 3573.06] powerful -[3573.06 --> 3573.54] just -[3573.54 --> 3574.16] compassionate -[3574.16 --> 3574.54] good -[3574.54 --> 3575.20] merciful -[3575.20 --> 3575.94] strong -[3575.94 --> 3576.94] judge -[3576.94 --> 3578.48] loves us. -[3579.50 --> 3580.52] He is there for us. -[3580.84 --> 3581.92] Unconditional love -[3581.92 --> 3583.50] is ours for the receiving. -[3584.08 --> 3584.94] Hope is found -[3584.94 --> 3585.56] in him. -[3585.64 --> 3586.30] He is just. -[3586.68 --> 3587.82] Shalom is coming -[3587.82 --> 3589.14] for all who believe. -[3589.22 --> 3589.78] No matter what -[3589.78 --> 3591.14] crisis we find -[3591.14 --> 3591.72] ourselves in -[3591.72 --> 3592.76] that truth -[3592.76 --> 3593.58] remains. -[3594.58 --> 3595.40] And when we are -[3595.40 --> 3596.06] persistent -[3596.06 --> 3597.68] in our prayer -[3597.68 --> 3598.12] when we are -[3598.12 --> 3598.64] persistent -[3598.64 --> 3599.68] in our faith -[3599.68 --> 3600.14] when we are -[3600.14 --> 3600.84] relentlessly -[3600.84 --> 3601.66] faithful -[3601.66 --> 3602.30] in the midst -[3602.30 --> 3603.18] of adversity -[3603.18 --> 3603.88] like this widow -[3603.88 --> 3604.26] was -[3604.26 --> 3605.90] our foundation -[3605.90 --> 3607.24] remains secure -[3607.24 --> 3608.40] and our -[3608.40 --> 3609.04] perspectives -[3609.04 --> 3610.52] change. -[3611.56 --> 3612.46] And that's -[3612.46 --> 3612.92] the key. -[3614.80 --> 3615.62] Sometimes our -[3615.62 --> 3616.32] contexts -[3616.32 --> 3617.10] won't immediately -[3617.10 --> 3617.66] get better. -[3617.78 --> 3618.30] Sometimes they -[3618.30 --> 3618.78] might not get -[3618.78 --> 3619.38] better at all -[3619.38 --> 3620.00] but Jesus -[3620.00 --> 3621.60] helps change -[3621.60 --> 3622.72] our perspectives -[3622.72 --> 3624.54] which allows us -[3624.54 --> 3624.98] to root -[3624.98 --> 3625.64] ourselves -[3625.64 --> 3626.28] on his -[3626.28 --> 3627.02] solid ground. -[3629.20 --> 3629.88] Now there's -[3629.88 --> 3630.34] two ways -[3630.34 --> 3630.72] that our -[3630.72 --> 3631.16] perspectives -[3631.16 --> 3631.56] shift -[3631.56 --> 3632.36] when we are -[3632.36 --> 3632.80] persistent -[3632.80 --> 3633.54] in our faith -[3633.54 --> 3635.00] and that is -[3635.00 --> 3635.50] that we become -[3635.50 --> 3636.52] less complacent -[3636.52 --> 3637.54] in our faith -[3637.54 --> 3637.96] lives -[3637.96 --> 3639.24] and we -[3639.24 --> 3639.94] rediscover -[3639.94 --> 3640.74] the eternal -[3640.74 --> 3641.42] hope found -[3641.42 --> 3642.00] in the one -[3642.00 --> 3642.46] to whom -[3642.46 --> 3642.68] we are -[3642.68 --> 3643.24] praying for -[3643.24 --> 3643.98] or praying -[3643.98 --> 3644.18] to. -[3644.32 --> 3644.46] Sorry. -[3646.36 --> 3646.64] So whether -[3646.64 --> 3647.28] life is going -[3647.28 --> 3647.78] well or -[3647.78 --> 3648.20] life is -[3648.20 --> 3649.10] crashing in -[3649.10 --> 3649.54] around us -[3649.54 --> 3650.02] we're called -[3650.02 --> 3650.32] to be -[3650.32 --> 3650.86] persistent -[3650.86 --> 3651.82] in our -[3651.82 --> 3652.68] faithfulness -[3652.68 --> 3653.04] to him. -[3654.24 --> 3654.68] Praying -[3654.68 --> 3654.96] to him -[3654.96 --> 3655.44] thanking -[3655.44 --> 3655.78] him -[3655.78 --> 3656.30] crying -[3656.30 --> 3656.58] out -[3656.58 --> 3656.82] to him -[3656.82 --> 3657.34] lamenting -[3657.34 --> 3657.66] to him -[3657.66 --> 3658.24] all of -[3658.24 --> 3658.38] that -[3658.38 --> 3658.92] acknowledges -[3658.92 --> 3659.16] him. -[3661.46 --> 3662.02] And when -[3662.02 --> 3662.28] we do -[3662.28 --> 3662.92] those things -[3662.92 --> 3663.44] two things -[3663.44 --> 3663.66] happen. -[3663.76 --> 3663.94] First -[3663.94 --> 3664.74] we become -[3664.74 --> 3665.06] less -[3665.06 --> 3665.72] complacent -[3665.72 --> 3666.04] in our -[3666.04 --> 3666.30] faith -[3666.30 --> 3666.66] lives -[3666.66 --> 3667.32] and we -[3667.32 --> 3667.74] combat -[3667.74 --> 3668.52] what I -[3668.52 --> 3668.84] like to -[3668.84 --> 3669.02] call -[3669.02 --> 3669.44] covenant -[3669.44 --> 3670.06] child -[3670.06 --> 3670.62] syndrome. -[3670.84 --> 3670.92] Now -[3670.92 --> 3671.24] covenant -[3671.24 --> 3671.62] child -[3671.62 --> 3672.00] syndrome -[3672.00 --> 3672.48] it's -[3672.48 --> 3672.58] an -[3672.58 --> 3672.94] affliction -[3672.94 --> 3673.28] that some -[3673.28 --> 3673.50] of us -[3673.50 --> 3673.68] youth -[3673.68 --> 3674.00] pastors -[3674.00 --> 3674.44] came up -[3674.44 --> 3674.78] a while -[3674.78 --> 3675.06] ago -[3675.06 --> 3676.06] that affects -[3676.06 --> 3676.58] those of -[3676.58 --> 3676.82] us -[3676.82 --> 3677.30] who have -[3677.30 --> 3677.48] been -[3677.48 --> 3677.88] baptized -[3677.88 --> 3678.46] in the -[3678.46 --> 3678.70] church -[3678.70 --> 3679.28] and even -[3679.28 --> 3679.74] professed -[3679.74 --> 3679.86] our -[3679.86 --> 3680.10] faith -[3680.10 --> 3680.38] in the -[3680.38 --> 3680.66] church -[3680.66 --> 3681.30] but are -[3681.30 --> 3681.48] now -[3681.48 --> 3681.84] simply -[3681.84 --> 3682.18] sort of -[3682.18 --> 3682.70] coasting -[3682.70 --> 3682.92] in our -[3682.92 --> 3683.14] faith -[3683.14 --> 3683.54] lives. -[3683.96 --> 3684.04] We -[3684.04 --> 3684.36] believe -[3684.36 --> 3684.82] in God -[3684.82 --> 3685.36] and in -[3685.36 --> 3685.60] Jesus -[3685.60 --> 3686.34] gospel -[3686.34 --> 3686.62] truth -[3686.62 --> 3686.86] of his -[3686.86 --> 3687.10] life -[3687.10 --> 3687.30] death -[3687.30 --> 3687.42] and -[3687.42 --> 3687.78] resurrection -[3687.78 --> 3688.34] and now -[3688.34 --> 3688.64] we feel -[3688.64 --> 3688.92] like we -[3688.92 --> 3689.26] can just -[3689.26 --> 3689.84] sort of -[3689.84 --> 3690.26] do what -[3690.26 --> 3690.64] we want. -[3691.34 --> 3691.68] We think -[3691.68 --> 3692.14] God's grace -[3692.14 --> 3692.74] is big -[3692.74 --> 3692.96] and we -[3692.96 --> 3693.22] know that -[3693.22 --> 3693.38] we're -[3693.38 --> 3693.90] saved -[3693.90 --> 3694.24] and God -[3694.24 --> 3694.70] has chosen -[3694.70 --> 3695.04] us -[3695.04 --> 3695.56] and we're -[3695.56 --> 3696.06] generally -[3696.06 --> 3696.64] pretty nice -[3696.64 --> 3697.06] people -[3697.06 --> 3698.08] so we -[3698.08 --> 3698.34] can go -[3698.34 --> 3698.64] about our -[3698.64 --> 3698.88] days -[3698.88 --> 3699.14] without -[3699.14 --> 3699.44] thinking -[3699.44 --> 3700.08] too much -[3700.08 --> 3700.76] about God -[3700.76 --> 3701.18] or his -[3701.18 --> 3701.58] role in -[3701.58 --> 3701.94] our lives -[3701.94 --> 3702.36] or how -[3702.36 --> 3702.94] the gospel -[3702.94 --> 3703.32] truth -[3703.32 --> 3703.84] should -[3703.84 --> 3704.48] transform -[3704.48 --> 3705.16] everything. -[3706.92 --> 3707.20] Now this -[3707.20 --> 3707.56] way of -[3707.56 --> 3707.80] thinking -[3707.80 --> 3708.28] makes us -[3708.28 --> 3708.72] lazy -[3708.72 --> 3709.02] it makes -[3709.02 --> 3709.18] us -[3709.18 --> 3709.78] complacent -[3709.78 --> 3710.26] and it -[3710.26 --> 3710.72] distances -[3710.72 --> 3711.08] us -[3711.08 --> 3711.80] from God -[3711.80 --> 3712.48] and it -[3712.48 --> 3712.88] distances -[3712.88 --> 3713.20] us -[3713.20 --> 3713.50] from the -[3713.50 --> 3713.84] calling -[3713.84 --> 3714.14] that God -[3714.14 --> 3714.56] has placed -[3714.56 --> 3714.92] on our -[3714.92 --> 3715.40] lives -[3715.40 --> 3716.02] to be -[3716.02 --> 3716.50] the body -[3716.50 --> 3717.08] of Christ. -[3719.08 --> 3719.62] When we -[3719.62 --> 3719.94] think this -[3719.94 --> 3720.16] way we -[3720.16 --> 3720.72] stop serving -[3720.72 --> 3720.98] in the -[3720.98 --> 3721.18] church -[3721.18 --> 3721.48] because -[3721.48 --> 3721.72] what's -[3721.72 --> 3722.08] the point -[3722.08 --> 3722.48] someone else -[3722.48 --> 3722.72] is going -[3722.72 --> 3722.92] to do -[3722.92 --> 3723.02] it. -[3723.18 --> 3723.28] We -[3723.28 --> 3723.54] stop -[3723.54 --> 3724.18] sharing -[3724.18 --> 3724.58] the good -[3724.58 --> 3724.86] news -[3724.86 --> 3725.22] to our -[3725.22 --> 3725.70] colleagues -[3725.70 --> 3726.04] because -[3726.04 --> 3726.74] that seems -[3726.74 --> 3727.44] too hard -[3727.44 --> 3727.82] and too -[3727.82 --> 3728.30] uncomfortable. -[3728.64 --> 3728.98] We stop -[3728.98 --> 3729.50] reading the -[3729.50 --> 3729.98] Bible at -[3729.98 --> 3730.20] home -[3730.20 --> 3730.56] because -[3730.56 --> 3731.10] Pastor -[3731.10 --> 3731.32] Chris -[3731.32 --> 3731.70] does that -[3731.70 --> 3732.04] for us -[3732.04 --> 3732.56] every Sunday -[3732.56 --> 3732.96] so we're -[3732.96 --> 3733.16] good. -[3733.58 --> 3733.96] We stop -[3733.96 --> 3734.54] doing family -[3734.54 --> 3735.12] devotions -[3735.12 --> 3735.54] around the -[3735.54 --> 3736.14] table at -[3736.14 --> 3736.36] night -[3736.36 --> 3736.70] because -[3736.70 --> 3737.44] we've got -[3737.44 --> 3737.94] sports to -[3737.94 --> 3738.26] get to -[3738.26 --> 3738.66] or meetings -[3738.66 --> 3739.24] to attend -[3739.24 --> 3739.84] or rehearsals -[3739.84 --> 3740.26] to see. -[3740.82 --> 3741.44] We stop -[3741.44 --> 3742.22] praying -[3742.22 --> 3743.32] because we -[3743.32 --> 3743.88] kind of have -[3743.88 --> 3744.40] things under -[3744.40 --> 3744.92] control. -[3746.80 --> 3747.56] We stop -[3747.56 --> 3748.24] thinking about -[3748.24 --> 3748.78] the fact -[3748.78 --> 3749.70] that Jesus -[3749.70 --> 3750.32] is coming -[3750.32 --> 3750.74] again -[3750.74 --> 3751.50] because it -[3751.50 --> 3751.98] seems to -[3751.98 --> 3752.50] be taking -[3752.50 --> 3753.32] him so -[3753.32 --> 3753.84] long to -[3753.84 --> 3754.30] do so. -[3756.38 --> 3757.18] We stop -[3757.18 --> 3758.20] being persistently -[3758.20 --> 3758.76] faithful -[3758.76 --> 3760.12] and forget -[3760.12 --> 3760.56] to love -[3760.56 --> 3761.20] our Lord -[3761.20 --> 3761.66] with all -[3761.66 --> 3762.14] our heart -[3762.14 --> 3762.62] and all -[3762.62 --> 3763.08] our soul -[3763.08 --> 3763.50] and all -[3763.50 --> 3763.98] our mind -[3763.98 --> 3764.50] and instead -[3764.50 --> 3765.50] we only -[3765.50 --> 3766.06] love him -[3766.06 --> 3766.98] when it -[3766.98 --> 3767.36] becomes -[3767.36 --> 3767.80] convenient -[3767.80 --> 3768.44] for us -[3768.44 --> 3769.28] or if -[3769.28 --> 3769.64] we need -[3769.64 --> 3770.06] something -[3770.06 --> 3771.02] or if -[3771.02 --> 3771.32] things are -[3771.32 --> 3771.64] getting a -[3771.64 --> 3772.04] little hard. -[3773.52 --> 3774.30] We stop -[3774.30 --> 3775.18] being persistently -[3775.18 --> 3775.88] faithful and we -[3775.88 --> 3776.42] forget to love -[3776.42 --> 3776.84] our neighbors -[3776.84 --> 3777.52] as ourselves -[3777.52 --> 3778.32] and instead -[3778.32 --> 3779.58] we only love -[3779.58 --> 3780.04] those whom -[3780.04 --> 3780.54] we are most -[3780.54 --> 3781.52] comfortable with -[3781.52 --> 3782.02] and only -[3782.02 --> 3782.92] whenever they -[3782.92 --> 3783.52] are conveniently -[3783.52 --> 3784.22] around us. -[3785.94 --> 3786.72] Jesus is -[3786.72 --> 3787.40] concerned about -[3787.40 --> 3787.74] this. -[3787.74 --> 3788.54] He says -[3788.54 --> 3788.84] so in -[3788.84 --> 3789.34] verse 8 -[3789.34 --> 3790.14] the final -[3790.14 --> 3790.52] verse of -[3790.52 --> 3790.98] our passage -[3790.98 --> 3791.70] when we -[3791.70 --> 3792.32] forget to be -[3792.32 --> 3792.92] persistent in -[3792.92 --> 3793.54] our faithfulness -[3793.54 --> 3793.84] to God -[3793.84 --> 3794.78] Jesus worries -[3794.78 --> 3795.24] that when he -[3795.24 --> 3795.82] comes back -[3795.82 --> 3796.48] when he returns -[3796.48 --> 3797.34] again he will -[3797.34 --> 3797.98] find limited -[3797.98 --> 3798.30] faith. -[3798.42 --> 3798.98] Read verse 8 -[3798.98 --> 3799.56] with me again. -[3799.98 --> 3800.32] When the -[3800.32 --> 3800.88] son of man -[3800.88 --> 3802.40] comes will -[3802.40 --> 3803.24] he find -[3803.24 --> 3804.08] faith on -[3804.08 --> 3804.40] earth? -[3806.68 --> 3807.34] If we -[3807.34 --> 3807.78] aren't being -[3807.78 --> 3808.60] persistent in -[3808.60 --> 3809.28] our faithfulness -[3809.28 --> 3809.80] to God will -[3809.80 --> 3810.36] he find -[3810.36 --> 3811.36] faith when -[3811.36 --> 3811.80] he comes -[3811.80 --> 3812.22] again? -[3812.22 --> 3815.46] being -[3815.46 --> 3816.10] persistent in -[3816.10 --> 3816.44] our faith -[3816.44 --> 3816.88] helps us -[3816.88 --> 3817.44] shift that -[3817.44 --> 3818.00] perspective -[3818.00 --> 3818.36] that we -[3818.36 --> 3818.66] have and -[3818.66 --> 3819.28] it combats -[3819.28 --> 3819.52] this -[3819.52 --> 3820.14] complacent -[3820.14 --> 3820.42] faith. -[3820.54 --> 3820.72] When we -[3820.72 --> 3821.40] give our -[3821.40 --> 3821.82] lives to -[3821.82 --> 3822.30] God whether -[3822.30 --> 3823.26] we're quietly -[3823.26 --> 3824.34] content or -[3824.34 --> 3824.80] when we're -[3824.80 --> 3825.58] rolling in -[3825.58 --> 3826.32] turmoil because -[3826.32 --> 3827.28] things seem -[3827.28 --> 3827.88] so upside -[3827.88 --> 3828.80] down when -[3828.80 --> 3829.24] we give -[3829.24 --> 3829.70] our lives -[3829.70 --> 3830.12] to him -[3830.12 --> 3831.16] every day -[3831.16 --> 3831.58] we show -[3831.58 --> 3832.10] our faith -[3832.10 --> 3833.54] we find -[3833.54 --> 3834.00] our rock -[3834.00 --> 3834.32] we can -[3834.32 --> 3834.80] discover -[3834.80 --> 3835.64] something -[3835.64 --> 3836.46] some new -[3836.46 --> 3837.00] stability -[3837.00 --> 3838.10] along the -[3838.10 --> 3838.34] way. -[3839.02 --> 3839.76] I did that -[3839.76 --> 3840.14] this week. -[3840.14 --> 3841.00] it wasn't -[3841.00 --> 3841.86] necessarily a -[3841.86 --> 3842.32] bad week -[3842.32 --> 3842.84] for me -[3842.84 --> 3843.22] although it -[3843.22 --> 3843.56] wasn't a -[3843.56 --> 3844.00] great week -[3844.00 --> 3844.32] either. -[3845.20 --> 3846.18] I definitely -[3846.18 --> 3846.54] had some -[3846.54 --> 3847.14] moments as a -[3847.14 --> 3847.58] parent and -[3847.58 --> 3848.10] as a husband -[3848.10 --> 3848.76] that I regret -[3848.76 --> 3849.20] and that I -[3849.20 --> 3849.70] wasn't super -[3849.70 --> 3850.54] proud of and -[3850.54 --> 3850.98] I had heard -[3850.98 --> 3851.48] from a couple -[3851.48 --> 3852.00] of friends -[3852.00 --> 3852.98] some fairly -[3852.98 --> 3853.72] big news in -[3853.72 --> 3854.26] their lives -[3854.26 --> 3854.64] that isn't -[3854.64 --> 3855.16] going great -[3855.16 --> 3855.56] and their -[3855.56 --> 3856.16] lives are -[3856.16 --> 3856.46] going to be -[3856.46 --> 3857.06] altered going -[3857.06 --> 3857.32] forward. -[3857.42 --> 3857.60] That was a -[3857.60 --> 3857.78] little bit -[3857.78 --> 3858.32] difficult to -[3858.32 --> 3858.52] hear. -[3860.44 --> 3861.26] There was a -[3861.26 --> 3861.72] weight to -[3861.72 --> 3862.08] this week -[3862.08 --> 3862.40] we'll say -[3862.40 --> 3862.86] that and I -[3862.86 --> 3863.46] found myself -[3863.46 --> 3864.14] grumpy and -[3864.14 --> 3864.84] sad more than -[3864.84 --> 3865.36] I wanted to -[3865.36 --> 3865.60] be. -[3866.58 --> 3866.96] However -[3866.96 --> 3868.10] because I was -[3868.10 --> 3868.78] working on this -[3868.78 --> 3869.38] all week -[3869.38 --> 3870.48] when I was -[3870.48 --> 3871.16] feeling burdened -[3871.16 --> 3871.56] or hopeless -[3871.56 --> 3872.26] or frustrated -[3872.26 --> 3873.32] not every time -[3873.32 --> 3873.88] but I often -[3873.88 --> 3874.48] remembered this -[3874.48 --> 3875.18] text that I -[3875.18 --> 3875.82] was looking at -[3875.82 --> 3876.86] and I -[3876.86 --> 3877.38] remembered this -[3877.38 --> 3877.92] sermon that I -[3877.92 --> 3878.64] was working on -[3878.64 --> 3879.20] and every now -[3879.20 --> 3879.54] and then I -[3879.54 --> 3880.10] found myself -[3880.10 --> 3881.28] praying God -[3881.28 --> 3881.86] life is a -[3881.86 --> 3883.26] mess or God -[3883.26 --> 3884.12] I screwed up -[3884.12 --> 3885.66] but I know -[3885.66 --> 3886.26] you are God -[3886.26 --> 3886.84] and I know -[3886.84 --> 3887.44] you are good -[3887.44 --> 3887.94] and I know -[3887.94 --> 3888.64] you are present -[3888.64 --> 3890.02] please redeem -[3890.02 --> 3890.72] this situation -[3890.72 --> 3891.68] help me zoom -[3891.68 --> 3892.68] out of my life -[3892.68 --> 3893.34] and remember -[3893.34 --> 3893.96] how big your -[3893.96 --> 3894.80] plan is for -[3894.80 --> 3895.20] this world -[3895.20 --> 3895.64] around me -[3895.64 --> 3896.34] make me less -[3896.34 --> 3897.34] make you more -[3897.34 --> 3899.68] and every -[3899.68 --> 3900.04] time I -[3900.04 --> 3900.44] prayed that -[3900.44 --> 3900.92] prayer I -[3900.92 --> 3902.20] felt lighter -[3902.20 --> 3903.64] relieved -[3903.64 --> 3904.88] better -[3904.88 --> 3907.60] not for the -[3907.60 --> 3908.00] rest of the -[3908.00 --> 3908.46] week or even -[3908.46 --> 3908.88] for the rest -[3908.88 --> 3909.40] of the day -[3909.40 --> 3911.18] but for a -[3911.18 --> 3911.38] while -[3911.38 --> 3912.46] now I'm not -[3912.46 --> 3914.04] prescribing to -[3914.04 --> 3914.44] you that every -[3914.44 --> 3915.16] time you pray a -[3915.16 --> 3915.90] prayer like that -[3915.90 --> 3916.36] your troubles -[3916.36 --> 3916.72] are going to -[3916.72 --> 3917.18] go away -[3917.18 --> 3917.78] or your -[3917.78 --> 3918.40] frustrations -[3918.40 --> 3919.32] will disintegrate -[3919.32 --> 3920.12] or the world -[3920.12 --> 3920.72] will change -[3920.72 --> 3921.16] forever -[3921.16 --> 3922.54] but what this -[3922.54 --> 3923.22] text teaches -[3923.22 --> 3923.88] us is that -[3923.88 --> 3924.82] no matter what -[3924.82 --> 3925.44] our context -[3925.44 --> 3926.08] we need to be -[3926.08 --> 3927.38] persistent in -[3927.38 --> 3927.90] prayer and -[3927.90 --> 3929.00] understand who -[3929.00 --> 3929.86] our God is -[3929.86 --> 3931.50] and when we -[3931.50 --> 3932.32] grasp that -[3932.32 --> 3932.92] everything -[3932.92 --> 3934.98] seems to get -[3934.98 --> 3935.30] lighter -[3935.30 --> 3937.22] in challenging -[3937.22 --> 3938.12] situations our -[3938.12 --> 3938.88] ground seems a -[3938.88 --> 3939.52] little more solid -[3939.52 --> 3940.58] and our God -[3940.58 --> 3941.36] becomes front and -[3941.36 --> 3942.12] center once again -[3942.12 --> 3943.76] and that -[3943.76 --> 3944.78] perspective shift -[3944.78 --> 3945.74] just roots us in -[3945.74 --> 3946.32] him a little bit -[3946.32 --> 3946.60] deeper -[3946.60 --> 3949.84] the second -[3949.84 --> 3950.60] perspective shift -[3950.60 --> 3951.32] that happens when -[3951.32 --> 3952.16] we are persistent -[3952.16 --> 3953.10] in our faithfulness -[3953.10 --> 3953.56] and this will -[3953.56 --> 3954.42] conclude with this -[3954.42 --> 3955.50] one today is -[3955.50 --> 3956.54] that we rediscover -[3956.54 --> 3958.14] the eternal hope -[3958.14 --> 3958.86] found in God's -[3958.86 --> 3959.84] kingdom come and -[3959.84 --> 3960.58] his kingdom coming -[3960.58 --> 3962.80] if you have your -[3962.80 --> 3964.08] Bibles open look -[3964.08 --> 3965.20] at the second half -[3965.20 --> 3966.26] of chapter 17 -[3966.26 --> 3966.98] that's the chunk -[3966.98 --> 3967.82] of text that comes -[3967.82 --> 3969.00] right before our -[3969.00 --> 3969.74] parable today -[3969.74 --> 3972.24] so in the lead up -[3972.24 --> 3972.90] to this parable -[3972.90 --> 3973.86] in that text -[3973.86 --> 3975.00] Jesus is talking -[3975.00 --> 3975.62] about when he -[3975.62 --> 3976.28] comes again -[3976.28 --> 3978.62] his disciples -[3978.62 --> 3979.28] perhaps didn't -[3979.28 --> 3980.26] grasp the scope -[3980.26 --> 3980.92] of this because -[3980.92 --> 3982.02] Jesus was still -[3982.02 --> 3982.56] there he hadn't -[3982.56 --> 3983.64] even died and -[3983.64 --> 3984.12] come back the -[3984.12 --> 3984.62] first time -[3984.62 --> 3986.34] but Jesus is -[3986.34 --> 3986.82] talking about -[3986.82 --> 3987.26] the future -[3987.26 --> 3987.92] when his kingdom -[3987.92 --> 3989.02] comes again -[3989.02 --> 3991.12] and in that -[3991.12 --> 3992.24] chapter Jesus -[3992.24 --> 3993.42] says that those -[3993.42 --> 3994.12] who are faithful -[3994.12 --> 3994.76] will go with -[3994.76 --> 3996.04] him and those -[3996.04 --> 3996.42] who are not -[3996.42 --> 3996.90] will be left -[3996.90 --> 3997.30] behind -[3997.30 --> 3999.50] and then Jesus -[3999.50 --> 4000.10] tells this -[4000.10 --> 4000.60] parable -[4000.60 --> 4002.96] in the hopes -[4002.96 --> 4003.32] that his -[4003.32 --> 4004.14] disciples will -[4004.14 --> 4004.86] understand that -[4004.86 --> 4005.54] no matter what -[4005.54 --> 4006.62] trials they are -[4006.62 --> 4007.30] going to face -[4007.30 --> 4009.68] no matter what -[4009.68 --> 4010.10] they will be -[4010.10 --> 4011.26] going through -[4011.26 --> 4012.30] as they go -[4012.30 --> 4012.88] forward God -[4012.88 --> 4013.62] calls them -[4013.62 --> 4014.50] Jesus calls -[4014.50 --> 4015.44] them to -[4015.44 --> 4016.70] remain faithful -[4016.70 --> 4017.64] always -[4017.64 --> 4019.18] and remember -[4019.18 --> 4019.88] Jesus knew -[4019.88 --> 4020.76] he knew what -[4020.76 --> 4021.36] these disciples -[4021.36 --> 4021.78] were going to -[4021.78 --> 4022.38] face he knew -[4022.38 --> 4022.96] that the trials -[4022.96 --> 4023.38] they were going -[4023.38 --> 4024.26] to come across -[4024.26 --> 4024.58] were going to -[4024.58 --> 4024.96] be hard -[4024.96 --> 4025.58] remember all -[4025.58 --> 4026.34] those disciples -[4026.34 --> 4027.54] ended up getting -[4027.54 --> 4028.20] martyred for -[4028.20 --> 4028.66] their faith -[4028.66 --> 4029.36] except for John -[4029.36 --> 4030.74] who was boiled -[4030.74 --> 4031.78] and then sent to -[4031.78 --> 4032.36] an island and -[4032.36 --> 4033.10] didn't die and -[4033.10 --> 4033.44] then had to -[4033.44 --> 4033.88] live there for -[4033.88 --> 4034.38] a long time -[4034.38 --> 4035.44] that's what -[4035.44 --> 4035.80] they went -[4035.80 --> 4036.10] through -[4036.10 --> 4039.38] they were -[4039.38 --> 4040.00] persistent -[4040.00 --> 4040.34] though -[4040.34 --> 4040.64] in their -[4040.64 --> 4041.00] faith -[4041.00 --> 4042.24] they were -[4042.24 --> 4042.94] living for -[4042.94 --> 4043.28] Jesus -[4043.28 --> 4043.94] persistent -[4043.94 --> 4044.34] in their -[4044.34 --> 4044.70] love for -[4044.70 --> 4044.82] them -[4044.82 --> 4045.30] persistent -[4045.30 --> 4045.90] in their -[4045.90 --> 4046.20] prayers -[4046.20 --> 4046.46] to him -[4046.46 --> 4046.88] persistent -[4046.88 --> 4047.64] even when -[4047.64 --> 4047.90] they were -[4047.90 --> 4048.40] persecuted -[4048.40 --> 4049.26] persistent -[4049.26 --> 4050.06] even when -[4050.06 --> 4050.50] their friends -[4050.50 --> 4050.94] were killed -[4050.94 --> 4051.68] even when -[4051.68 --> 4052.04] they lost -[4052.04 --> 4052.60] everything -[4052.60 --> 4053.68] the disciples -[4053.68 --> 4054.62] were persistent -[4054.62 --> 4055.02] in their -[4055.02 --> 4055.50] faithfulness -[4055.50 --> 4056.20] because they -[4056.20 --> 4056.84] understood -[4056.84 --> 4058.20] that Christ's -[4058.20 --> 4058.48] kingdom -[4058.48 --> 4059.48] was coming -[4059.48 --> 4061.76] and they -[4061.76 --> 4062.24] later knew -[4062.24 --> 4062.76] like we do -[4062.76 --> 4063.06] now -[4063.06 --> 4063.78] that Jesus -[4063.78 --> 4064.84] lived this -[4064.84 --> 4065.48] life that we -[4065.48 --> 4065.80] have been -[4065.80 --> 4066.60] called to -[4066.60 --> 4066.86] live -[4066.86 --> 4067.50] but then he -[4067.50 --> 4068.24] died a death -[4068.24 --> 4070.12] a terrible -[4070.12 --> 4070.86] death that we -[4070.86 --> 4071.58] all deserve to -[4071.58 --> 4072.06] die but he -[4072.06 --> 4072.50] died it in -[4072.50 --> 4072.92] our stead -[4072.92 --> 4074.02] and he took -[4074.02 --> 4074.56] the weight of -[4074.56 --> 4075.26] the sins of -[4075.26 --> 4075.80] the world on -[4075.80 --> 4076.26] his shoulders -[4076.26 --> 4076.72] and he went -[4076.72 --> 4077.20] to the grave -[4077.20 --> 4077.76] with them all -[4077.76 --> 4079.36] but then three -[4079.36 --> 4080.06] days later he -[4080.06 --> 4080.68] rose again -[4080.68 --> 4081.34] from the dead -[4081.34 --> 4082.36] defeating sin -[4082.36 --> 4082.88] and death -[4082.88 --> 4083.96] forever in -[4083.96 --> 4084.32] this world -[4084.32 --> 4085.14] and all we -[4085.14 --> 4085.88] need to do -[4085.88 --> 4086.96] is believe -[4086.96 --> 4087.96] in what he -[4087.96 --> 4088.52] accomplished -[4088.52 --> 4089.38] in his -[4089.38 --> 4089.86] life in -[4089.86 --> 4090.26] his death -[4090.26 --> 4090.48] and in -[4090.48 --> 4091.08] his resurrection -[4091.08 --> 4091.98] and know -[4091.98 --> 4092.42] that our -[4092.42 --> 4093.20] salvation is -[4093.20 --> 4094.40] assured not -[4094.40 --> 4094.84] by anything -[4094.84 --> 4095.70] we do but -[4095.70 --> 4096.44] by everything -[4096.44 --> 4097.50] he did and -[4097.50 --> 4098.08] by everything -[4098.08 --> 4098.76] he is going -[4098.76 --> 4099.32] to do -[4099.32 --> 4101.76] and when we -[4101.76 --> 4102.54] rest in that -[4102.54 --> 4104.32] truth when we -[4104.32 --> 4105.10] sit in the -[4105.10 --> 4106.24] persistent faith -[4106.24 --> 4107.02] knowing that -[4107.02 --> 4107.60] that gospel -[4107.60 --> 4108.30] truth is just -[4108.30 --> 4109.58] that truth -[4109.58 --> 4111.82] changes everything -[4111.82 --> 4113.54] no matter our -[4113.54 --> 4114.02] context -[4114.02 --> 4116.62] it gives peace -[4116.62 --> 4117.14] to those who -[4117.14 --> 4117.50] mourn -[4117.50 --> 4119.80] it gives rest -[4119.80 --> 4120.24] to those who -[4120.24 --> 4121.04] battle every -[4121.04 --> 4121.38] day -[4121.38 --> 4123.48] it gives hope -[4123.48 --> 4124.94] to those who -[4124.94 --> 4125.40] have nothing -[4125.40 --> 4127.50] it gives love -[4127.50 --> 4127.98] to those who -[4127.98 --> 4128.62] feel alone -[4128.62 --> 4131.66] being persistently -[4131.66 --> 4132.72] faithful allows -[4132.72 --> 4133.52] all of us to -[4133.52 --> 4134.04] remember that -[4134.04 --> 4135.34] justice is -[4135.34 --> 4135.70] coming -[4135.70 --> 4137.64] peace is -[4137.64 --> 4138.08] coming -[4138.08 --> 4140.06] harmony is -[4140.06 --> 4140.46] coming -[4140.46 --> 4142.18] Jesus is -[4142.18 --> 4142.54] coming -[4142.54 --> 4145.44] and while -[4145.44 --> 4145.90] this parable -[4145.90 --> 4146.84] doesn't tell us -[4146.84 --> 4147.38] why Jesus -[4147.38 --> 4148.10] seems to move -[4148.10 --> 4149.06] slowly sometimes -[4149.06 --> 4150.84] it reminds us -[4150.84 --> 4151.62] to be prayerful -[4151.62 --> 4152.36] and live every -[4152.36 --> 4153.04] day faithfully -[4153.04 --> 4153.48] for him -[4153.48 --> 4154.12] not just -[4154.12 --> 4154.80] Sundays from -[4154.80 --> 4155.68] 10 to 1130 -[4155.68 --> 4156.58] but every -[4156.58 --> 4156.86] day -[4156.86 --> 4159.10] on our peaks -[4159.10 --> 4159.64] and in our -[4159.64 --> 4160.00] valleys -[4160.00 --> 4162.18] and we can do -[4162.18 --> 4163.04] that because we -[4163.04 --> 4164.10] can be confident -[4164.10 --> 4164.84] that God -[4164.84 --> 4165.90] will act for -[4165.90 --> 4166.76] the good of -[4166.76 --> 4167.64] those who -[4167.64 --> 4168.00] love him -[4168.00 --> 4168.78] he is coming -[4168.78 --> 4169.46] so let's be -[4169.46 --> 4170.30] persistent -[4170.30 --> 4171.30] in our -[4171.30 --> 4171.60] faith -[4171.60 --> 4171.90] amen -[4171.90 --> 4173.66] let me pray -[4173.66 --> 4178.70] father in -[4178.70 --> 4179.00] heaven -[4179.00 --> 4181.14] we thank you -[4181.14 --> 4181.62] for your -[4181.62 --> 4182.00] redemption -[4182.00 --> 4182.58] plan -[4182.58 --> 4184.80] solidified in -[4184.80 --> 4185.18] the life -[4185.18 --> 4185.60] death and -[4185.60 --> 4186.34] resurrection of -[4186.34 --> 4186.96] Jesus Christ -[4186.96 --> 4187.42] your son -[4187.42 --> 4190.02] we thank you -[4190.02 --> 4190.74] for this parable -[4190.74 --> 4191.62] challenging us -[4191.62 --> 4192.14] that no matter -[4192.14 --> 4192.80] where we find -[4192.80 --> 4193.38] ourselves in -[4193.38 --> 4193.60] life -[4193.60 --> 4195.02] that we are -[4195.02 --> 4195.40] to remain -[4195.40 --> 4196.36] faithful to -[4196.36 --> 4196.66] you -[4196.66 --> 4198.38] persistently -[4198.38 --> 4199.48] faithful to -[4199.48 --> 4199.74] you -[4199.74 --> 4201.60] and God -[4201.60 --> 4201.90] you're a -[4201.90 --> 4202.20] God of -[4202.20 --> 4202.60] all things -[4202.60 --> 4202.96] you can -[4202.96 --> 4203.24] change -[4203.24 --> 4203.78] contexts -[4203.78 --> 4204.46] you don't -[4204.46 --> 4204.94] change other -[4204.94 --> 4205.46] contexts -[4205.46 --> 4205.96] you see -[4205.96 --> 4206.46] all things -[4206.46 --> 4206.86] and know -[4206.86 --> 4207.42] all things -[4207.42 --> 4208.26] let us -[4208.26 --> 4208.88] trust you -[4208.88 --> 4210.92] when things -[4210.92 --> 4211.94] are bad -[4211.94 --> 4212.26] in our -[4212.26 --> 4212.50] lives -[4212.50 --> 4212.78] may we -[4212.78 --> 4213.30] cry out -[4213.30 --> 4213.52] to you -[4213.52 --> 4214.04] call out -[4214.04 --> 4214.24] to you -[4214.24 --> 4214.72] shout out -[4214.72 --> 4214.96] to you -[4214.96 --> 4215.32] when things -[4215.32 --> 4215.66] are good -[4215.66 --> 4216.14] may we -[4216.14 --> 4216.88] glorify you -[4216.88 --> 4217.30] and thank -[4217.30 --> 4217.54] you -[4217.54 --> 4218.08] and God -[4218.08 --> 4218.48] in all -[4218.48 --> 4218.66] of it -[4218.66 --> 4218.92] may we -[4218.92 --> 4219.44] acknowledge -[4219.44 --> 4219.78] you -[4219.78 --> 4221.08] and know -[4221.08 --> 4221.38] that you -[4221.38 --> 4221.74] are our -[4221.74 --> 4222.06] God -[4222.06 --> 4223.72] and may -[4223.72 --> 4223.88] we -[4223.88 --> 4224.60] confidently -[4224.60 --> 4226.00] and -[4226.00 --> 4226.84] passionately -[4226.84 --> 4228.42] bring this -[4228.42 --> 4229.12] good news -[4229.12 --> 4229.96] to those -[4229.96 --> 4230.22] who need -[4230.22 --> 4230.54] to hear -[4230.54 --> 4230.74] it -[4230.74 --> 4232.12] we pray -[4232.12 --> 4232.40] this in -[4232.40 --> 4232.76] your son's -[4232.76 --> 4233.36] precious name -[4233.36 --> 4233.94] amen -[4233.94 --> 4237.98] to those -[4241.26 --> 4241.50] even -[4241.50 --> 4243.28] you -[4243.28 --> 4244.80] need -[4244.80 --> 4245.72] more -[4245.72 --> 4246.34] than -[4246.34 --> 4246.70] you -[4247.62 --> 4248.94] need -[4248.94 --> 4249.78] and -[4249.78 --> 4250.60] now -[4250.60 --> 4251.30] look -[4251.30 --> 4252.12] sure -[4252.12 --> 4253.54] this -[4253.54 --> 4256.78] is -[4256.78 --> 4257.28] now -[4257.28 --> 4257.68] I -[4257.68 --> 4258.96] mean -[4258.96 --> 4260.04] I -[4260.04 --> 4278.72] Holiness, holiness is what I long for -[4278.72 --> 4283.04] Holiness is what I need -[4283.04 --> 4292.28] Holiness, holiness is what you want from me -[4292.28 --> 4301.84] Faithfulness, faithfulness is what I long for -[4301.84 --> 4305.90] Faithfulness is what I need -[4305.90 --> 4315.14] Faithfulness, faithfulness is what you want from me -[4315.14 --> 4322.90] Take my heart and form it -[4322.90 --> 4329.34] Take my life and transform it -[4329.34 --> 4335.20] Take my will, conform it -[4335.20 --> 4340.58] To yours, to yours, O Lord -[4340.58 --> 4348.30] Righteousness, righteousness is what I long for -[4348.30 --> 4352.34] Righteousness is what I need -[4352.34 --> 4361.58] Righteousness, righteousness is what you want from me -[4361.58 --> 4369.88] Take my heart and form it -[4369.88 --> 4375.70] Take my life and transform it -[4375.70 --> 4381.56] Take my will, conform it -[4381.56 --> 4386.94] To yours, to yours, O Lord -[4386.94 --> 4393.20] Take my heart and form it -[4393.20 --> 4399.04] Take my life and transform it -[4399.04 --> 4404.90] Take my will, conform it -[4404.90 --> 4409.78] To yours, to yours, O Lord -[4409.78 --> 4415.28] To yours, to yours, O Lord -[4415.28 --> 4422.20] We invite you all to stick around after the service -[4422.20 --> 4423.98] for some coffee and refreshments afterwards -[4423.98 --> 4426.48] enjoy some fellowship with one another -[4426.48 --> 4428.66] but as we leave this place and go out into our week -[4428.66 --> 4431.52] let's remember to remain faithful to our God -[4431.52 --> 4433.42] when things are good, when things are bad -[4433.42 --> 4434.30] in all situations -[4434.30 --> 4435.92] dust off that Bible at home -[4435.92 --> 4438.60] pray to him, invite him into all your context -[4438.60 --> 4440.00] as he is our Lord -[4440.00 --> 4442.86] Please receive God's parting blessing -[4442.86 --> 4444.96] found from Numbers 6 -[4444.96 --> 4448.26] The Lord bless you and keep you -[4448.26 --> 4450.80] The Lord make his face shine upon you -[4450.80 --> 4451.90] and be gracious to you -[4451.90 --> 4454.22] The Lord turn his face towards you -[4454.22 --> 4455.90] and give you his peace -[4455.90 --> 4457.46] And all God's people said -[4457.46 --> 4458.40] Amen -[4458.40 --> 4462.02] Amen -[4462.02 --> 4491.72] We're pilgrims on the journey -[4491.72 --> 4495.38] of the narrow road -[4495.38 --> 4498.94] and those who've gone before us -[4498.94 --> 4501.90] lie in the way -[4501.90 --> 4505.84] cheering on the faithful -[4505.84 --> 4509.42] encouraging the weary -[4509.42 --> 4513.18] their lives a stirring testament -[4513.18 --> 4518.78] to God's sustaining grace -[4518.78 --> 4524.50] surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses -[4524.50 --> 4528.38] let us run the race -[4528.38 --> 4531.78] not only for the prize -[4531.78 --> 4537.10] but as those who've gone before us -[4537.10 --> 4540.68] let us lead to those behind us -[4540.68 --> 4544.40] the heritage of faithfulness -[4544.40 --> 4548.40] pass on through godly life -[4548.40 --> 4553.06] oh may all who come behind us -[4553.06 --> 4555.12] find us faithful -[4555.12 --> 4559.88] may the fire of our devotion -[4559.88 --> 4562.12] light their way -[4562.12 --> 4567.88] may the footprints that we need -[4567.88 --> 4570.34] lead them to believe -[4570.34 --> 4573.34] and the lives we live -[4573.34 --> 4576.06] inspire them to obey -[4576.06 --> 4581.74] oh may all who come behind us -[4581.74 --> 4583.82] find us faithful -[4583.82 --> 4596.62] after all our hopes and dreams -[4596.62 --> 4599.50] have come and gone -[4599.50 --> 4601.92] and our children saved -[4601.92 --> 4605.42] through all we've left behind -[4605.42 --> 4609.98] may the clues that they discover -[4609.98 --> 4613.70] and the memories they uncover -[4613.70 --> 4615.70] become the light -[4615.70 --> 4618.70] that leads them to the road -[4618.70 --> 4621.42] we each must find -[4621.42 --> 4626.38] oh may all who come behind us -[4626.38 --> 4628.30] find us faithful -[4628.30 --> 4633.16] may the fire of our devotion -[4633.16 --> 4635.42] light their way -[4635.42 --> 4641.02] may the footprints that we leave -[4641.02 --> 4643.52] lead them to believe -[4643.52 --> 4644.52] lead them to believe -[4644.52 --> 4646.38] and the lives we live -[4646.38 --> 4649.20] inspire them to obey -[4649.20 --> 4650.52] to obey -[4650.52 --> 4652.52] to obey -[4652.52 --> 4654.52] to obey -[4654.52 --> 4658.20] oh may all who come behind us -[4658.20 --> 4660.12] find us faithful -[4660.12 --> 4664.76] may the fire of our devotion -[4664.76 --> 4667.76] light their way -[4667.76 --> 4672.52] may the footprints that we leave -[4672.52 --> 4702.50] lead them to believe -[4702.50 --> 4732.48] Thank you. -[4732.50 --> 4734.50] Amen. -[4762.50 --> 4764.50] Amen. -[4792.50 --> 4794.50] Amen. -[4822.50 --> 4824.50] Amen. -[4852.50 --> 4854.50] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 22 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 22 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 20e77f66c4cd4f721d63cbb7597be9bf0f8c8971..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 22 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,120 +0,0 @@ -• Expressions of devotion and commitment to God -• The love and identity of God as a loving Father -• Jesus as the King of glory, strong and mighty -• The power of God's name to bring freedom and salvation -• Testimonies of faith and confidence in God's presence and goodness -• Introduction by Kevin Lobert, youth pastor at Langley Emanuel -• Announcement of new choir and interest in joining -• Details on upcoming youth events: worship night, day camp, Reactivate conference -• Reading of God's greeting from Revelation 1:4-6 -• Call to worship from Psalm 134 -• Praise and worship of God -• Comparison of human beauty with the Lord's beauty -• Jesus as the risen Lord, slain to reconcile humanity to God -• Worshiping only Him alone on His throne -• The Lamb upon the throne being forever and eternally glorious -• Gratitude for the gift of grace in Jesus Christ -• Jesus as a source of joy, righteousness, freedom, love, peace, and hope -• Life bound to Him and reliance on His power -• Overcoming through faith in Christ and acknowledging His presence -• Victory over sin and death through Jesus' sacrifice and resurrection -• Trusting in Jesus for pardon and forgiveness -• Longing to follow Jesus and be renewed day by day until standing before the throne -• Praise and worship of God, giving all glory to Him -• Difficulty in discerning truth and rightness amidst conflicting voices -• Importance of seeking guidance from a trusted source (God's word) to know the truth -• Assurance of salvation through Jesus' sacrifice and victory over sin and death -• Children's prayer time and invitation for kids to come forward -• Discussion about summer activities and sharing experiences -• Invitation to pray before children's worship time and the Lord's blessing -• The children's blessing is recited and those who know it are asked to stand -• A congregational prayer is led, asking for guidance, wisdom, and healing for individuals in the congregation -• The special offering is collected for World Renew disaster relief -• Hymns are sung, including "I Surrender All" -• The pastor thanks everyone for their attendance and participation. -• Prayer for healing and strength for Lord after his fall -• Prayers for the Miles family as they prepare to celebrate Mike's life -• Prayers for those affected by fires in the province and around the world -• Election concerns, including voting and leadership -• Prayers for students and staff as school begins -• Concerns about normalcy returning after the pandemic -• Prayers for the church to remain a light in the community -• Requests for wisdom and guidance for the church council and pastors -• Prayer for Kevin and his message -• Discussion on heaven and hell -• Importance of understanding what heaven and hell look like -• Questions raised about the nature of heaven and hell -• Controversy surrounding opinions on hell and heaven -• Passage from Matthew 25 read in context to discuss judgment -• Separation of sheep and goats based on actions towards others -• The concept of heaven and hell as eternal punishment or reward -• An illustration by Francis Chan representing existence as a rope that ends at the point of death -• The tendency to focus on earthly life and forget about eternity -• The question of why hell is rarely discussed in modern Christian culture -• The debate over whether hell is real, including various views among Christians (annihilationism, universalism, traditional view) -• Annihilationism: a view that those who don't believe in Jesus cease to exist and there is no hell or eternal suffering. -• Universalism: everyone goes to heaven regardless of their actions or beliefs, due to God's great grace. -• Traditional view of hell: if you reject the truth of Jesus as your savior, you go to hell. -• The traditional view of hell is uncomfortable and may be wrong -• Francis Chan and Preston Sprinkle's book "Erasing Hell" argues against universalism and emphasizes the reality of hell as a place where God judges people at the end of their lives -• A judge's role is to weigh evidence objectively, reach impartial conclusions, and impose sentences equitably, which vindicates God's judgment rather than making Him seem vengeful -• God is the ultimate judge and not humans, who should not try to design new rubrics for judgment in a complex universe that they barely understand -• The reality of hell and heaven are real, but their exact nature is difficult to define -• Jesus speaks of hell frequently in the Gospels -• Examples include Matthew 11:23-24, where Jesus warns the city of Capernaum that it will be thrown into Hades (or Gehenna) due to its wickedness -• Gehenna is an actual place, a valley near Jerusalem where ancient kings sacrificed babies and later became a dump for burning garbage and dead animals -• Jesus uses Gehenna as a reference to describe hell in multiple places throughout the Gospels -• The concept of Gehenna and its symbolic representation in the Bible -• Jesus' use of Gehenna as a metaphor for hell -• Different interpretations of hell, including Dante's Inferno -• Dante's depiction of nine concentric circles of torment within the earth -• Other views of hell, such as Rabbi Haim's parable about long utensils preventing self-service and C.S. Lewis' concept in The Great Divorce -• The speaker describes hell as a gray city with constant rain and gloom -• Hell is portrayed as a place of quarrelsome residents who fight constantly and cannot coexist -• Residents can create things by thinking about them, but they are poorly made and unsatisfying -• Hell is depicted in three different ways, but its true nature is unknown -• The absence of God in hell means hope is lost, love does not exist, and selfishness reigns -• Heaven is described as a place with no sea, where the holy city of new Jerusalem comes down from God -• Heaven is portrayed as a beautiful, peaceful place prepared by God for his people -• The throne of God is among the people -• There will be no more death, mourning, crying, or pain -• A river of water of life flows from the throne of God -• The tree of life bears twelve crops of fruit every month -• No curse will exist in heaven -• God's servants will serve him and see his face -• Light will not be needed in heaven because God will give light to those who dwell there -• Discussion of heaven and hell being infrequent in conversation -• Reasons why heaven and hell are not discussed often: - • Those who have put their faith in Jesus Christ as their savior are already saved - • Heaven is a concrete reality for them, eliminating the need to discuss it -• Second reason: discussing heaven and hell may not be necessary because Jesus has already accomplished salvation through his sinless life, death on the cross, and resurrection -• Using heaven and hell as motivators for conversion -• Critique of "turn or burn" sermons and tactics -• Problem with using fear as a means to convert unbelievers -• Distinction between morality and salvation through Jesus Christ -• Shift from emphasizing what people must do to gain salvation to focusing on what God has done -• The purpose of the mission is to share the saving power and love of Christ. -• Heaven and hell should not be used as motivators or gimmicks for good behavior or evangelism. -• Faith in Christ and understanding his gospel message lead to salvation and a changed life. -• The Holy Spirit, not fear of hell or promise of heaven, changes lives. -• Once faith is established, eternity with the triune God becomes certain. -• Using heaven and hell as motivators can distract from the true nature of the gospel. -• Faith in Christ has already saved the world from the clutches of hell. -• Faith and eternity -• Submission to God's will -• Love for God and neighbors -• Selflessness -• Living according to God's promises -• Christ's death and resurrection -• Salvation through the cross -• Heaven and hell -• God's parting blessing -• A priestly blessing from Numbers 6 -• Days of Ezekiel and David -• Temple of praise -• Harvest and laborers in God's vineyard -• Jesus' return, described as riding on the clouds and shining like the sun -• New leaders and salvation -• Psalm-like repetition of themes: God's glory, new leadership, salvation -• Personal testimony of failure, shame, and redemption -• Various disconnected phrases and names: Big Ash, kolk toazoge, fathersed demons, Collaborate, Stay \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 22 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 22 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a169f44247a94c62242d793f39e038f9b27df339..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 22 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1916 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.74] God, you will never turn your back on me. -[6.92 --> 12.10] How courage become your treasure? -[13.14 --> 18.64] The love of God has changed my destiny. -[19.36 --> 24.42] I serve the King with good intentions. -[24.42 --> 30.74] God, you will never turn your back on me. -[31.62 --> 36.76] How courage become your treasure? -[37.68 --> 43.26] The love of God has changed my destiny. -[43.26 --> 50.46] You are the love. -[51.46 --> 55.18] It comes with no conditions. -[56.48 --> 59.58] You give us your heart. -[60.96 --> 67.56] Your smile is in the blood of Jesus. -[67.56 --> 73.60] I know who I am because of you. -[74.60 --> 79.80] I know who I am because of you. -[80.80 --> 84.88] I know who I am. -[87.08 --> 91.56] I know who I am. -[91.56 --> 98.36] Your love becomes me, Lord, the nations. -[99.72 --> 103.94] You give us your heart. -[104.40 --> 110.64] My hope is in the blood of Jesus. -[110.64 --> 117.80] I know who I am because of who you are. -[121.80 --> 124.00] Oh, yes, I know who I am. -[124.00 --> 125.00] I know who I am. -[125.08 --> 126.28] Don't get the truth. -[126.64 --> 129.68] Jesus, I believe you. -[129.68 --> 154.68] Jesus, I believe you. -[154.68 --> 184.66] Jesus, I believe you. -[184.68 --> 214.66] Jesus, I believe you. -[214.68 --> 215.66] Oh, yes, I believe you. -[215.66 --> 216.64] Oh, yes. -[216.66 --> 217.34] I believe you. -[217.90 --> 218.74] Jesus, I believe you. -[218.88 --> 220.70] Jesus, I believe you. -[221.20 --> 225.58] Oh, yes, I believe you. -[225.58 --> 231.40] And there is peace in the storm, in the storm. -[231.84 --> 235.38] No, don't forget, He is Lord. -[235.60 --> 238.00] He is Lord of all. -[241.58 --> 243.18] Come on, so. -[243.66 --> 246.04] There is a King of glory. -[246.46 --> 248.88] There is a God who saves. -[249.26 --> 251.66] One who's strong and mighty. -[251.66 --> 254.12] Freedom is in His name. -[254.12 --> 257.22] So open the gates of heaven. -[257.78 --> 260.08] Lift up a shadow of praise. -[260.54 --> 262.80] There is a lion rolling. -[263.22 --> 265.54] Jesus, the King of glory. -[267.88 --> 270.24] So lift your eyes. -[270.50 --> 273.24] Standing on, standing on. -[273.68 --> 277.24] There is one, only one. -[277.24 --> 279.82] Where my heart comes from. -[280.78 --> 281.36] Come on. -[281.36 --> 283.34] Lift your eyes. -[283.42 --> 284.44] Lift your eyes. -[284.52 --> 285.06] Oh, say. -[285.56 --> 287.90] There is a King of glory. -[288.32 --> 290.74] There is a God who saves. -[291.20 --> 293.46] One who's strong and mighty. -[293.92 --> 295.98] Freedom is in His name. -[296.46 --> 299.04] So open the gates of heaven. -[299.70 --> 301.90] Lift up a shadow of praise. -[301.90 --> 302.90] There is a King of glory. -[302.90 --> 303.90] There is a King of glory. -[303.90 --> 304.90] There is a King of glory. -[304.90 --> 305.90] There is a King of glory. -[305.90 --> 306.90] Jesus, the King of glory. -[314.90 --> 315.52] There's no one like it. -[315.52 --> 339.56] As you now know the King of glory. -[339.56 --> 345.74] You nations bow, mountains shade. -[346.52 --> 351.58] At the south, just one name. -[351.58 --> 358.58] Over all, Jesus saves. -[359.58 --> 360.60] I know. -[360.60 --> 370.54] There is the King of glory. -[371.14 --> 373.50] It's the Lord, strong and mighty. -[374.42 --> 376.52] The Lord, mighty and mighty. -[377.16 --> 378.44] This is our King. -[379.16 --> 380.78] This is the King of glory. -[381.78 --> 384.74] Come on, same time, same time. -[384.94 --> 385.54] So, so. -[385.96 --> 388.42] There is a King of glory. -[388.42 --> 391.26] There is a God who saves. -[391.58 --> 393.92] One who's strong and mighty. -[394.46 --> 396.54] Freedom is in His name. -[397.14 --> 399.68] Open the gates of heaven. -[400.14 --> 402.40] Pick up the shout of praise. -[402.86 --> 405.08] There is a lion rolling. -[405.64 --> 407.82] Jesus the King of glory. -[413.46 --> 416.26] There is a lion rolling. -[416.26 --> 419.04] Jesus the King of glory. -[419.04 --> 424.04] Ch появouveください -[449.04 --> 454.58] You're the God who makes the giants fall. -[456.36 --> 460.64] You bring down the walls of Jericho. -[463.06 --> 470.22] You're the God who gives the miracle we believe. -[470.22 --> 480.54] You're the God who parts the ocean wide. -[482.22 --> 486.78] Just to bring us closer to your side. -[488.70 --> 493.14] You're the God who brings the dead to life. -[493.14 --> 495.14] We believe. -[496.58 --> 498.40] Oh, we believe. -[500.22 --> 502.22] Oh, we believe. -[502.22 --> 505.04] God, how great you are. -[505.62 --> 508.12] Great things you have done. -[508.80 --> 514.64] For everything we've seen, there is more to come. -[515.32 --> 521.02] Every victory, every battle won. -[521.02 --> 527.52] For everything we've seen, there is more to come. -[527.52 --> 538.12] We are confident in all your ways. -[540.12 --> 544.48] Because we know you never make mistakes. -[544.48 --> 550.82] God, you fill us with the greater faith. -[550.82 --> 552.82] We believe. -[552.82 --> 554.12] Do you believe? -[554.12 --> 554.96] Do you believe? -[554.96 --> 554.98] Do you believe? -[554.98 --> 557.12] Do you believe? -[557.12 --> 558.38] Oh, God. -[558.38 --> 562.60] God, how great you are. -[562.60 --> 562.76] God, how great you are. -[563.20 --> 565.92] Great things you have done. -[566.40 --> 572.16] For everything we've seen, there is more to come. -[572.94 --> 578.66] Every victory, every battle won. -[579.20 --> 584.82] For everything we've seen, there is more to come. -[584.82 --> 587.14] Good morning. -[587.92 --> 591.62] That's how we like to get attention in this church, is just a big, low feedback. -[592.24 --> 593.76] It's so good to be with you this morning. -[593.86 --> 594.78] My name is Kevin Lobert. -[594.82 --> 596.56] I'm the youth pastor here at Langley Emanuel. -[597.04 --> 599.86] And it's great to be able to join in person today for this service. -[600.34 --> 601.44] Welcome to everyone here. -[601.52 --> 602.86] Welcome to you who are online. -[603.82 --> 605.16] Yeah, like I said, it's just good to be together. -[605.28 --> 607.48] There is a song that is going to start playing in one second. -[608.38 --> 609.00] Here it comes. -[609.00 --> 616.82] Isn't that nice? -[618.30 --> 620.46] So, that can keep playing while I talk. -[620.56 --> 624.04] Just let it be the background music behind my awful voice. -[624.72 --> 628.42] There is a choir that is starting here in this church. -[628.60 --> 632.00] And if you are interested in joining it, you will be singing this song. -[632.98 --> 636.70] It's actually a big, long, 40-minute, I don't know, what's it called, Mark? -[637.30 --> 637.74] Cantata? -[637.74 --> 640.36] Joy Has Gone. -[640.66 --> 642.12] So, Joy Has Gone is the piece. -[642.24 --> 642.96] There's lots of songs. -[643.06 --> 643.76] It sounds really nice. -[643.84 --> 644.72] I did listen to the whole thing. -[645.12 --> 649.78] If you are interested in joining this choir, Mark DeGeis is the man that you want to talk to. -[649.92 --> 651.66] So, it is going to be starting in September. -[652.10 --> 655.74] It will be starting on Labor Day weekend, the first Monday, actually, of the Labor Day weekend. -[656.60 --> 658.60] And then it will be having rehearsals every Monday following. -[658.74 --> 661.50] So, if that's something that you are interested in, please talk to Mark. -[661.76 --> 664.34] All skill levels of singing are welcome. -[664.62 --> 665.88] So, he's your man. -[665.98 --> 666.48] Talk to him. -[666.48 --> 667.52] We hope we get lots of people. -[667.64 --> 669.00] It's a really good chance for some community. -[670.16 --> 671.50] I've got a couple more announcements. -[671.66 --> 674.78] Actually, just one three-part announcement for the youth out there. -[674.82 --> 676.34] Youth, we've got a worship tonight tonight. -[676.64 --> 677.38] Come on out to that. -[677.44 --> 679.18] We're going to do it out here in the courtyard, probably. -[679.60 --> 683.58] We're also having our youth day camp next week, Saturday. -[683.58 --> 689.08] So, if you want to come to youth camp, which is just going to be for one full day, please sign up. -[689.14 --> 690.10] I've sent links for that. -[690.18 --> 691.84] You can see them in the bulletin or in my emails. -[692.28 --> 696.70] Sign up for that so we know how much food and games and stuff to bring as well. -[696.70 --> 699.74] And finally, we are doing reactivate again this year. -[699.92 --> 703.42] Reactivate is a big youth conference for youth across BC. -[704.06 --> 705.80] And you can sign up for that as well. -[706.60 --> 708.62] We weren't able to do it last year, of course, because of COVID. -[708.70 --> 710.24] We're excited to be able to do that this year. -[710.50 --> 713.26] And that will be for September 10th through 12th. -[713.26 --> 714.92] So, sign up online for that as well. -[715.38 --> 716.88] Hopefully, you can make it out to that. -[717.96 --> 721.76] I'm going to invite you all, please, just to stand up now, even at home, if you would. -[721.82 --> 722.66] Please stand up. -[722.72 --> 727.16] And we are going to hear God's greeting this morning as we start this service off. -[727.16 --> 731.86] So, God's greeting this morning comes from Revelation chapter 1. -[733.02 --> 738.60] Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come. -[739.00 --> 742.86] And from the seven spirits that are before his throne and from Jesus Christ. -[743.26 --> 749.10] Who is the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. -[750.22 --> 750.52] Amen. -[751.28 --> 751.98] Let's sing together. -[753.66 --> 755.84] Good morning and welcome to worship. -[756.10 --> 759.04] Our call to worship this morning is from Psalm 134. -[759.96 --> 764.46] Praise the Lord, all you servants of the Lord, who minister by night in the house of the Lord. -[765.24 --> 768.32] Lift up your hands in the sanctuary and praise the Lord. -[769.02 --> 773.12] May the Lord bless you from Zion, he who is the maker of heaven and earth. -[773.26 --> 774.40] temple. -[774.40 --> 774.90] Amen. -[774.90 --> 776.68] Amen. -[776.78 --> 777.68] Amen. -[777.68 --> 778.48] commitment. -[781.22 --> 783.10] Oh, heavenly, fais. -[783.10 --> 783.72] Amen. -[783.72 --> 784.26] Amen. -[784.26 --> 784.32] Amen. -[784.32 --> 785.02] Amen. -[785.02 --> 785.42] Amen. -[785.42 --> 785.46] Amen. -[785.46 --> 787.52] Amen. -[787.52 --> 789.04] Amen. -[789.04 --> 789.74] Amen. -[793.74 --> 795.26] Old heaven, bless. -[795.26 --> 795.74] Amen. -[795.74 --> 796.26] Amen. -[796.40 --> 796.42] Amen. -[796.42 --> 800.80] It is done, God is done, Marie -[800.80 --> 804.24] of the risen Lord -[804.24 --> 807.68] Who can compare -[807.68 --> 815.04] with the beauty of the Lord -[815.04 --> 818.30] Forever He will be -[818.30 --> 821.04] Forever He will be -[821.04 --> 823.50] The Lamb upon the throne -[823.50 --> 825.96] The Lamb upon the throne -[825.96 --> 828.68] The Lamb upon the throne -[828.68 --> 831.70] I can't keep on the throne -[831.70 --> 835.06] And worship Him alone -[835.06 --> 840.20] I will proclaim -[840.20 --> 847.42] The glory of the risen Lord -[847.42 --> 851.42] Who once was slain -[851.42 --> 858.20] To reconcile man to God -[858.20 --> 861.58] Forever He will be -[861.58 --> 864.52] Forever He will be -[864.52 --> 866.58] Forever He will be -[866.58 --> 869.64] The Lamb upon the throne -[869.64 --> 875.22] I can't leave out my knee -[875.22 --> 878.36] And worship Him alone -[878.36 --> 883.22] Forever He will be -[883.22 --> 886.60] Forever He will be -[886.60 --> 888.60] Forever He will be -[888.60 --> 891.60] The Lamb upon the throne -[891.60 --> 896.60] I can't leave out my knee -[896.60 --> 899.60] I worship You alone -[899.60 --> 907.98] The Lamb upon the throne -[907.98 --> 921.36] The Lamb upon the throne -[921.36 --> 924.74] The gift of grace -[924.74 --> 928.12] Is Jesus my Dean -[928.12 --> 933.12] There is no more -[933.12 --> 937.12] For heaven now to give -[937.12 --> 941.12] He is my joy -[941.12 --> 945.50] My righteousness and freedom -[945.50 --> 949.50] My steadfast love -[949.50 --> 953.50] My deep and boundless peace -[953.50 --> 957.50] To this I hold -[957.50 --> 962.24] My hope is only Jesus -[962.24 --> 967.62] For my life is holy -[967.62 --> 967.94] For my life is holy -[967.94 --> 970.62] Bound to Him -[970.62 --> 975.78] Oh how strange and divine -[975.78 --> 978.72] I can sing -[978.72 --> 980.86] All is mine -[980.86 --> 982.82] Yet not I -[982.82 --> 987.24] The new Christ in me -[987.24 --> 995.82] The night is dark -[995.82 --> 999.82] But I am not forsaken -[999.82 --> 1003.62] For by my side -[1003.62 --> 1007.62] The Savior He will stay -[1007.62 --> 1013.00] I labor on -[1013.00 --> 1017.50] In weakness and rejoicing -[1017.50 --> 1020.94] For in my need -[1020.94 --> 1025.08] His power is displayed -[1025.08 --> 1029.00] To this I hold -[1029.00 --> 1034.38] My shepherd will defend me -[1034.38 --> 1039.08] Through the deepest valley -[1039.08 --> 1042.16] He will lead -[1042.16 --> 1047.40] For the night has been won -[1047.40 --> 1050.50] And I shall overcome -[1050.50 --> 1053.44] Yet not I -[1053.44 --> 1058.04] But through Christ in me -[1058.04 --> 1065.86] No fate I dread -[1065.86 --> 1069.92] I know that I am forgiven -[1069.92 --> 1073.42] The future shook -[1073.42 --> 1078.88] The price it has been paid -[1078.88 --> 1081.82] For Jesus bled -[1081.82 --> 1086.42] And suffered for my pardon -[1086.42 --> 1090.74] And He was raised -[1090.74 --> 1095.40] To overthrow the grave -[1095.40 --> 1098.42] To this I hold -[1098.42 --> 1102.44] My sin has been defeated -[1102.44 --> 1110.16] Jesus now and ever is my plea -[1110.16 --> 1115.48] All the chains are released -[1115.48 --> 1117.48] I can sing -[1117.48 --> 1119.48] I am free -[1119.48 --> 1121.48] And not I -[1121.48 --> 1126.48] But through Christ in me -[1126.48 --> 1134.16] With every breath -[1134.16 --> 1136.16] I long to follow -[1136.16 --> 1138.66] I long to follow Jesus -[1138.66 --> 1142.16] For He has said -[1142.16 --> 1147.28] That He will bring me home -[1147.28 --> 1150.16] And day by day -[1150.16 --> 1155.16] I know He will renew me -[1155.16 --> 1160.58] Until I stand with joy -[1160.58 --> 1162.58] Before the throne -[1162.58 --> 1166.58] To this I hold -[1166.58 --> 1167.58] My hope -[1167.58 --> 1168.68] My hope -[1168.68 --> 1170.58] Is only Jesus -[1170.58 --> 1174.58] All the glory -[1174.58 --> 1178.58] Evermore to Him -[1178.58 --> 1183.58] When the race is complete -[1183.58 --> 1188.58] Still my lips shall repeat -[1188.58 --> 1190.58] Yet not I -[1190.58 --> 1195.58] But through Christ in me -[1195.58 --> 1200.58] When the race is complete -[1200.58 --> 1204.58] Still my lips shall repeat -[1204.58 --> 1206.58] Yet not I -[1206.58 --> 1207.58] Yet not I -[1207.58 --> 1213.58] But through Christ in me -[1213.58 --> 1216.58] Yet not I -[1216.58 --> 1221.58] But through Christ in me -[1221.58 --> 1233.58] Lord -[1233.58 --> 1238.58] We are often blind to Your goodness -[1238.58 --> 1240.34] And mercies in our lives -[1240.34 --> 1244.18] So easily led astray by false testimony -[1244.18 --> 1247.40] But it is difficult to know what is true -[1247.40 --> 1248.38] What is right -[1248.38 --> 1250.20] When there are so many voices -[1250.20 --> 1252.20] Some voices we trust -[1252.20 --> 1253.20] Saying different things -[1253.20 --> 1256.20] We confess we don't always come to You for truth -[1256.20 --> 1259.20] But search for other opinions in this world to assure us -[1260.20 --> 1262.20] But You say -[1262.20 --> 1263.20] If You abide in My word -[1263.20 --> 1265.20] You are truly My disciples -[1265.20 --> 1267.20] And You will know the truth -[1267.20 --> 1269.20] And the truth will set You free -[1269.20 --> 1270.20] For You are truth -[1270.20 --> 1271.20] Be our vision -[1271.20 --> 1272.20] O Lord -[1272.20 --> 1274.20] Open our eyes to the truth of You -[1274.20 --> 1275.20] And what You have done for us -[1275.20 --> 1278.20] That we may live in the assurance of Your love -[1278.20 --> 1281.20] For You are victorious over sin and death -[1281.20 --> 1283.20] And we are heirs of that salvation -[1283.20 --> 1285.20] Purchased through Jesus' sacrifice -[1285.20 --> 1287.20] And raised up with Him in victory -[1287.20 --> 1289.20] In Your name we pray -[1289.20 --> 1290.20] Amen -[1290.20 --> 1293.20] Amen -[1293.20 --> 1295.20] are you -[1295.20 --> 1325.18] Let's sing. -[1325.20 --> 1355.18] Let's sing. -[1355.20 --> 1357.20] Let's sing. -[1385.20 --> 1387.20] Let's sing. -[1387.20 --> 1389.20] This is my story. -[1390.50 --> 1392.88] This is my song. -[1393.54 --> 1399.14] Praising my Savior all the day long. -[1399.20 --> 1402.06] This is my story. -[1402.94 --> 1405.38] This is my song. -[1405.38 --> 1411.38] Praising my Savior all the day long. -[1413.38 --> 1419.24] Perfect submission, all is at rest. -[1419.84 --> 1425.38] I and my Savior am happy and blessed. -[1425.38 --> 1431.38] Watching and waiting, looking above. -[1433.22 --> 1439.38] Filled with His goodness, lost in His love. -[1439.38 --> 1441.38] This is my story. -[1443.06 --> 1445.44] This is my song. -[1446.16 --> 1451.38] Praising my Savior all the day long. -[1451.38 --> 1454.66] This is my story. -[1455.38 --> 1457.38] This is my song. -[1458.26 --> 1463.38] Praising my Savior all the day long. -[1463.38 --> 1467.38] This is my story. -[1467.38 --> 1469.38] This is my song. -[1469.38 --> 1475.38] Praising my Savior all the day long. -[1475.38 --> 1479.38] This is my story. -[1479.38 --> 1481.38] This is my song. -[1481.38 --> 1487.38] Praising my Savior all the day long. -[1487.38 --> 1489.38] A day long. -[1489.38 --> 1491.38] A day long. -[1491.38 --> 1492.22] A day long. -[1492.22 --> 1493.04] A day long. -[1497.04 --> 1509.68] Peace into the sea. -[1510.38 --> 1511.68] дело to life. -[1512.24 --> 1513.38] diyor to drodz Cosmo. -[1513.38 --> 1515.38] Amen. -[1543.38 --> 1545.38] Amen. -[1573.38 --> 1575.38] Amen. -[1603.38 --> 1605.38] Amen. -[1633.38 --> 1635.38] Amen. -[1663.38 --> 1665.38] Amen. -[1693.38 --> 1714.40] I am going to invite any kids who would like to, you can come forward, join me on the floor here. -[1714.84 --> 1718.20] And we are going to do a little prayer before it's time for children's worship time. -[1718.26 --> 1719.08] So come on up. -[1720.02 --> 1720.90] Come on up. -[1720.90 --> 1723.28] All right. -[1723.32 --> 1724.14] Here comes a few. -[1727.56 --> 1728.32] All right. -[1728.40 --> 1729.02] Look at them all. -[1729.08 --> 1730.10] We got lots of kids today. -[1730.16 --> 1730.84] That's so great. -[1733.82 --> 1735.22] How's everybody's summer going? -[1735.82 --> 1736.34] Yeah? -[1736.60 --> 1738.72] Has anybody done anything fun outside? -[1739.18 --> 1739.50] Yeah. -[1739.92 --> 1740.16] Yeah? -[1740.48 --> 1745.82] I think I'm kind of like washing the carrots. -[1746.52 --> 1747.66] Washing the carrots. -[1747.66 --> 1749.12] That does sound like fun. -[1749.12 --> 1752.32] That is everybody's favorite thing of summer, I think. -[1752.94 --> 1754.42] Anybody else do anything fun? -[1754.50 --> 1754.64] Yeah? -[1757.04 --> 1758.44] Oh, swimming in the pool. -[1758.58 --> 1759.16] That is very fun. -[1759.22 --> 1760.96] That's, I think, some of our favorite things to do, too. -[1761.90 --> 1763.94] We are going to go to children's worship time in a second. -[1764.02 --> 1764.26] Okay? -[1764.38 --> 1765.54] And then we're going to hear a story. -[1765.62 --> 1767.12] And we're going to learn a little bit more about God. -[1767.12 --> 1768.70] But before we do that, let's pray. -[1769.12 --> 1770.64] And then we're going to do the Lord's blessing. -[1770.94 --> 1771.32] All right? -[1771.68 --> 1772.70] To the congregation. -[1772.92 --> 1773.84] So bow your heads with me. -[1773.90 --> 1774.24] Let's pray. -[1775.14 --> 1776.92] Dear God, thank you so much for these kids. -[1777.06 --> 1779.44] Thank you for the summer that they are enjoying. -[1780.10 --> 1782.38] Thank you for your will in their lives. -[1782.44 --> 1785.42] And we just pray, God, that you'll be with them right now as they go to children's worship time. -[1785.42 --> 1787.44] God, help us learn more about you. -[1787.86 --> 1790.44] And for us non-kids who are staying back, let us do the same. -[1790.66 --> 1792.02] So we pray this in your son's name. -[1792.22 --> 1792.54] Amen. -[1793.44 --> 1793.66] Okay. -[1793.74 --> 1797.16] Who remembers the children's blessing, the Lord's blessing we do? -[1797.26 --> 1797.72] Hands up. -[1798.60 --> 1798.92] One. -[1799.20 --> 1799.52] One. -[1799.74 --> 1800.48] Okay, there's a few. -[1800.56 --> 1800.68] Okay. -[1800.74 --> 1801.74] So we're going to stand up. -[1802.02 --> 1802.98] And we're going to look at the church. -[1803.06 --> 1804.32] And we're going to do this with our hands. -[1804.64 --> 1806.46] And then we're going to say, the Lord be with you. -[1806.64 --> 1806.92] Okay? -[1807.02 --> 1808.32] And the church is going to stand up. -[1808.42 --> 1809.76] And they know their role, I think. -[1809.80 --> 1811.78] So we can all turn around to look at them. -[1812.28 --> 1813.10] It's very fun. -[1813.10 --> 1815.50] And we're going to say, the Lord be with you together. -[1815.60 --> 1816.04] Are you ready? -[1816.60 --> 1818.42] One, two, three. -[1819.04 --> 1821.14] The Lord be with you. -[1821.68 --> 1823.22] And also with you. -[1823.40 --> 1823.70] All right. -[1823.74 --> 1826.68] And if you are in kindergarten or younger, you can head to children's worship time. -[1826.72 --> 1828.96] And if you're older than that, you can head back to sit with your parents. -[1843.10 --> 1854.40] Oh, I can expectations. -[1854.40 --> 1869.26] offering is my mic on there we go we're going to do the offering right now -[1869.26 --> 1874.12] uh and i was thinking a deacon was going to come and do that but i don't see a deacon coming up -[1874.12 --> 1880.40] here to do that so i'm gonna do oh oh he's coming there he is there he is i've called him out but -[1880.40 --> 1882.26] he's smiling so it's all okay thanks mike -[1882.26 --> 1894.66] morning today's offering is for our church's budget and the special offering is for world -[1894.66 --> 1900.38] renewed disaster relief world renew works in 30 countries responding to both natural disasters -[1900.38 --> 1907.10] and civil unrest currently including haiti and afghanistan they partner with organizations -[1907.10 --> 1913.90] providing for displaced families and invest in local economies to help rebuild communities -[1913.90 --> 1920.22] renew hope and bring long-term stability unless otherwise marked all offerings will be given -[1920.22 --> 1921.52] to world renew thank you -[1921.52 --> 1938.18] warning -[1938.18 --> 1951.66] All to Jesus I surrender -[1951.66 --> 1957.36] All to Him I freely give -[1957.36 --> 1963.20] I will ever love and trust Him -[1963.20 --> 1968.70] In His presence daily live -[1968.70 --> 1973.72] I surrender all -[1973.72 --> 1979.46] I surrender all -[1979.46 --> 1985.32] All to Thee my blessed Savior -[1985.32 --> 1990.12] I surrender all -[1990.12 --> 1996.74] All to Jesus I surrender -[1996.74 --> 2002.74] Humbly at His feet I bow -[2002.74 --> 2008.68] Worldly pleasures all forsaken -[2008.68 --> 2014.28] Take me Jesus, take me now -[2014.28 --> 2019.90] I surrender all -[2019.90 --> 2024.90] I surrender all -[2024.90 --> 2031.90] All to Thee my blessed Savior -[2031.90 --> 2037.52] I surrender all -[2037.52 --> 2067.50] Thank you. -[2067.52 --> 2069.06] Good morning. -[2070.72 --> 2073.60] Shall we bow our heads in our congregational prayer? -[2078.08 --> 2079.16] Heavenly Father, -[2081.44 --> 2083.74] humbly we come before your throne. -[2086.62 --> 2093.66] We thank you, Lord, that freely again today we may be here in your house. -[2093.66 --> 2102.40] And Lord, may we too know that even before we were here, you were here already. -[2102.40 --> 2111.10] And we pray, Lord, that as we worship you this morning that we may come do so in adoration, -[2111.42 --> 2117.12] that we may honor you, that we may glorify you in word and in song. -[2117.12 --> 2122.84] Lord, you are great. -[2123.34 --> 2127.64] And Lord, it is impossible for us to understand your greatness. -[2128.00 --> 2133.48] And yet we pray that even today here so we may be drawn to you. -[2134.44 --> 2141.50] Lord, we pray for the children that are also worshiping in children's worship time at this time also. -[2141.50 --> 2145.76] And Lord, be with them, be with their leaders also. -[2148.62 --> 2155.00] May they too, Lord, in their own even simple ways acknowledge you and worship you. -[2155.00 --> 2161.88] Lord, we pray that they too, our children and grandchildren, may come to know you. -[2165.16 --> 2171.20] And Lord, we thank you for each of us that are here. -[2171.30 --> 2174.58] And yet, Lord, we know there are some that are not here this morning. -[2175.72 --> 2177.26] Lord, there are many who are on vacation. -[2177.26 --> 2186.76] We pray that in their time of rest, wherever they may be, may they too be here with you today. -[2187.46 --> 2194.08] Lord, we pray for those who have difficulties coming here, either, Lord, because of sickness. -[2197.32 --> 2202.50] Lord, for other reasons also, their hearts may be hardened and don't want to be here. -[2202.74 --> 2204.20] Lord, be near to each one. -[2204.20 --> 2205.28] Be with those who are ill. -[2207.26 --> 2210.38] Lord, you know the circumstances of each person. -[2210.58 --> 2212.54] And we pray, Lord, for healing for them. -[2216.08 --> 2219.94] Lord, as one member in our family hurts, we hurt also. -[2220.10 --> 2223.02] And when one rejoices, may we rejoice with them. -[2224.40 --> 2231.28] Lord, we pray this morning for Bob. -[2231.28 --> 2238.58] Lord, we pray, Lord, that as he continues to deal with his cancer, that you would be near to him. -[2241.26 --> 2242.64] Lord, we pray for healing. -[2243.60 --> 2245.40] We pray for Willie, Lord, also. -[2245.60 --> 2249.62] And as he too deals with his health issues. -[2249.62 --> 2254.40] Miraculously, Lord, we pray that each one may experience your healing touch. -[2258.08 --> 2260.74] And Lord, this morning we also remember John Trask. -[2262.62 --> 2267.12] Lord, who continues to deal with the fall he had a week ago. -[2268.40 --> 2272.88] Lord, as many ribs were broken in his body and other health issues. -[2272.88 --> 2278.96] Lord, we thank you and praise you for the successful surgery that took place on Friday. -[2281.74 --> 2284.20] And now the long road that is ahead of him, Lord. -[2284.24 --> 2287.58] We pray that there may also be miraculous healing in his life also. -[2290.66 --> 2294.86] Lord, we pray for the spouses of each, Lord, as they stand beside their partners, -[2294.86 --> 2298.32] that they too would be carried through these difficult times. -[2298.32 --> 2310.98] Lord, we pray for the Miles family as they prepare to celebrate the life of their son, Mike, this coming Saturday. -[2314.54 --> 2319.20] Lord, through that difficult time also, we pray that you would carry them, be with them. -[2320.32 --> 2327.94] And as they come together as family and friends, may, Lord, be strength, be given, and comfort to each one. -[2328.32 --> 2336.68] And Lord, we pray for the many who are dealing with the fires still throughout our province. -[2337.10 --> 2345.44] And not only in our province, but throughout the country and other countries around the world, Lord, there is many challenges in this. -[2346.14 --> 2349.20] We pray for those who have been displaced. -[2349.40 --> 2351.36] We pray for those, Lord, who are fighting the fires. -[2351.36 --> 2359.46] Each one, Lord, may they experience strength, courage, and your presence. -[2363.24 --> 2367.36] Lord, we pray for our country also as we prepare for another election this fall. -[2370.80 --> 2374.16] Lord, times like this also present to us many questions. -[2374.16 --> 2381.80] And, Lord, often it is difficult for us to know and see how you want us to vote, -[2382.68 --> 2390.16] who you want to lead this country, and the various members that stand for election. -[2390.36 --> 2393.36] Lord, we pray for each one that they would seek you, -[2394.02 --> 2400.28] and that we too may see, Lord, through this, who you want to lead this country. -[2400.28 --> 2407.28] Lord, as we prepare to come to the end of our summer as well, and as school begins, -[2408.00 --> 2412.84] we pray for the students and staff, Lord, who prepare for this new year. -[2415.52 --> 2419.88] And, Lord, through the season of life that we have gone through the last couple of years with the pandemic, -[2420.06 --> 2423.92] again, still there are questions, perhaps, in how this new year will look. -[2423.92 --> 2432.30] Lord, we pray that there may be normalcy may come back into play again. -[2432.40 --> 2435.70] We pray that this too may end. -[2439.64 --> 2447.48] We pray, Lord, that you would be with the students and staff, Lord, -[2447.56 --> 2452.74] and that they too may be kept at peace and comfort through this time also. -[2454.84 --> 2459.10] Lord, we pray for our church. -[2460.36 --> 2464.14] Through all the season of life that we have and are going through, Lord, -[2464.16 --> 2468.12] may we continue to be a light in this community and all that we do and wherever we go. -[2468.30 --> 2470.78] Lord, may others see that you live in us. -[2472.18 --> 2475.88] We pray even today, Lord, that there may be many who turn their hearts to you. -[2475.88 --> 2485.02] Lord, we pray for many who struggle. -[2485.62 --> 2487.34] May we walk beside them. -[2490.96 --> 2495.74] Lord, would you give us the strength also to carry each one through their difficult times. -[2495.74 --> 2507.46] Lord, we pray for our council here. -[2507.46 --> 2513.20] As we lead this church, Lord, give us wisdom. -[2514.66 --> 2520.36] We pray for our pastors that they too would seek you, -[2520.36 --> 2522.92] that you would walk beside them in their work. -[2524.08 --> 2527.74] Lord, we pray for Kevin this morning as he brings us your word. -[2531.32 --> 2532.82] Give him the words to speak. -[2533.06 --> 2534.76] We pray, Lord, that you would open our hearts, -[2534.84 --> 2535.82] that we may hear them, -[2537.28 --> 2540.18] that we may act on them also. -[2541.46 --> 2544.68] Lord, we pray these things in your name. -[2544.68 --> 2545.56] Amen. -[2570.36 --> 2571.28] Good morning. -[2572.28 --> 2572.86] All right. -[2572.96 --> 2574.40] We are arranged up here. -[2575.12 --> 2579.82] Today, we are going to be looking at the topic of heaven and hell, -[2579.94 --> 2581.60] which, I mean, that's a big topic, -[2581.90 --> 2584.46] and it's got all sorts of thoughts in this room, I'm sure. -[2584.54 --> 2586.78] There's all sorts of ideas of what that could look like. -[2587.20 --> 2589.24] But we're going to focus on four questions, -[2589.34 --> 2592.18] because a couple people asked questions of heaven and hell, -[2592.22 --> 2595.48] and we're going to kind of just lump them into one message here this morning. -[2595.56 --> 2597.34] So the four questions we're going to look at is, -[2597.94 --> 2598.90] is hell real? -[2600.08 --> 2601.18] What is hell? -[2601.52 --> 2602.52] Just answer the first one. -[2602.52 --> 2606.16] What does the Bible actually say of heaven? -[2606.16 --> 2610.54] And why do we rarely talk about either from the pulpit? -[2611.18 --> 2615.18] Now, I'm sure we've all asked questions like this in our lives. -[2615.24 --> 2616.94] It's in some form or another. -[2617.30 --> 2619.10] At some point, it's only natural. -[2619.10 --> 2624.72] We see books like this one right here called Heaven is for Real. -[2624.92 --> 2626.28] Perhaps some of us have read it. -[2626.90 --> 2630.14] It's about a boy who, during an emergency appendectomy, died, -[2630.24 --> 2632.46] and he had an out-of-body experience. -[2632.76 --> 2634.18] He knew what was going on in the hospital. -[2634.56 --> 2637.74] He went to heaven, and then he was resuscitated back to earth, -[2637.78 --> 2640.10] and he lived to talk about his time in glory. -[2640.12 --> 2642.24] And we ask ourselves when we read a book like this, -[2642.24 --> 2643.30] Is that it? -[2643.40 --> 2644.24] Is that what it is? -[2644.28 --> 2645.70] Is that what heaven's like? -[2645.84 --> 2646.38] We're curious. -[2647.20 --> 2648.44] We're curious, of course. -[2650.74 --> 2652.14] We want to know the unknown. -[2653.26 --> 2655.32] If someone could definitively answer, -[2655.74 --> 2658.64] what does heaven and hell actually look like? -[2659.06 --> 2660.20] If someone could answer that question, -[2660.24 --> 2663.22] it would dramatically affect the way we live -[2663.22 --> 2665.40] and the things we do here on this earth. -[2665.46 --> 2666.72] At least, I hope it would. -[2666.72 --> 2670.90] So we're going to try to flesh this out a bunch this morning. -[2671.10 --> 2673.18] But I do know that this topic can be a little bit edgy. -[2673.60 --> 2677.86] There's some controversial opinions about hell and about heaven. -[2678.38 --> 2681.46] And so if we don't get to what you want us to get to today, -[2681.52 --> 2684.08] I encourage you, please, don't hesitate to reach out this week. -[2684.34 --> 2687.48] You can email me at josh at licrc.ca, -[2688.10 --> 2691.14] and I'm sure I'll answer all of your questions if you reach out. -[2691.24 --> 2693.70] I heard that joke just slayed last week. -[2693.70 --> 2697.30] And so I thought, well, I'm going to want a piece of that joy. -[2698.66 --> 2700.48] And also, then I don't have to write my own joke. -[2700.64 --> 2702.48] So that's like two birds with one stone. -[2703.12 --> 2704.50] Work harder, not smarter, right? -[2705.32 --> 2706.72] No, work smarter, not harder. -[2707.38 --> 2708.40] I did that wrong. -[2708.52 --> 2709.60] See, I need to work on this. -[2710.86 --> 2714.44] Anyways, we're going to look at questions of heaven and hell today -[2714.44 --> 2715.42] that were asked by you. -[2715.48 --> 2716.26] Is heaven real? -[2716.92 --> 2717.52] What is hell? -[2719.58 --> 2722.06] Why don't we talk about them from the pulpit? -[2722.06 --> 2724.94] So to start, read with me a passage from Matthew 25. -[2725.14 --> 2728.10] And I hope that this passage helps springboard this discussion a little bit. -[2728.38 --> 2731.70] We're going to read Matthew 25, 31 to 46. -[2731.98 --> 2733.82] And so whether you're here or you're at home, -[2734.10 --> 2735.60] I do encourage you, please pull out your Bible. -[2735.70 --> 2736.50] There's some in the back. -[2737.04 --> 2738.64] And read along with me. -[2738.78 --> 2740.10] Also, keep those Bibles close, -[2740.16 --> 2741.66] because while we're going to look at this passage, -[2741.82 --> 2743.76] we're going to bounce around the Bible a little bit today. -[2743.76 --> 2746.68] And so having that on your person is just a really good idea. -[2746.68 --> 2751.08] So, Matthew 25, verses 31 to 46. -[2751.88 --> 2753.84] Jesus is speaking here, and he says this. -[2755.00 --> 2757.04] When the Son of Man comes in his glory, -[2757.72 --> 2759.30] and all the angels with him, -[2759.42 --> 2761.36] he will sit on his glorious throne. -[2761.98 --> 2764.16] All the nations will be gathered before him, -[2764.18 --> 2766.42] and he will separate the people one from another, -[2766.82 --> 2769.82] as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. -[2769.94 --> 2773.32] He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. -[2773.32 --> 2776.30] Then the king will say to those on his right, -[2776.46 --> 2778.20] Come, you who are blessed by my Father. -[2778.28 --> 2781.76] Take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you -[2781.76 --> 2782.96] since the creation of the world. -[2783.04 --> 2785.90] For I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat. -[2786.24 --> 2788.24] I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink. -[2788.58 --> 2790.66] I was a stranger, and you invited me in. -[2791.02 --> 2792.80] I need clothes, and you clothed me. -[2792.94 --> 2794.68] I was sick, and you looked after me. -[2794.76 --> 2797.60] I was in prison, and you came to visit me. -[2798.64 --> 2800.28] Then the righteous will answer and say, -[2800.44 --> 2803.12] Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you? -[2803.12 --> 2805.02] Or thirsty and give you something to drink? -[2805.08 --> 2807.98] When did we see you a stranger and invite you in? -[2808.04 --> 2809.80] Or need clothes and clothes you? -[2810.66 --> 2813.64] When did we see you sick or in prison and go visit you? -[2815.00 --> 2816.02] And the king will reply, -[2816.42 --> 2819.04] Truly I tell you, whatever you did -[2819.04 --> 2821.52] for the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, -[2822.02 --> 2823.54] you did for me. -[2825.14 --> 2826.76] Then he will say to those on his left, -[2826.76 --> 2829.68] Depart from me, you who are cursed into the eternal fire, -[2829.78 --> 2832.34] prepared for the devil and his angels. -[2832.34 --> 2835.44] For I was hungry, and you gave me nothing to eat. -[2835.88 --> 2838.38] I was thirsty, and you gave me nothing to drink. -[2838.44 --> 2841.04] I was a stranger, and you did not invite me in. -[2841.08 --> 2842.94] I needed clothes, and you did not clothe me. -[2843.14 --> 2847.50] I was sick and in prison, and you did not look after me. -[2849.56 --> 2850.66] They also will answer, -[2850.78 --> 2853.38] Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger -[2853.38 --> 2855.52] or needing clothes or sick or in prison -[2855.52 --> 2857.10] and did not help you? -[2858.62 --> 2862.06] He will reply, Truly I tell you, -[2862.92 --> 2866.56] whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, -[2867.16 --> 2869.70] you did not do for me. -[2870.74 --> 2873.20] And then they will go away to eternal punishment, -[2873.62 --> 2876.62] but they're righteous to eternal life. -[2876.62 --> 2879.38] The word of the Lord. -[2882.16 --> 2884.02] Heaven and hell, the kingdom of God, -[2884.10 --> 2885.60] and eternal punishment. -[2886.20 --> 2889.36] Now, I saw an illustration about 10 years ago -[2889.36 --> 2891.04] done by Francis Chan. -[2892.38 --> 2893.48] It's an amazing illustration, -[2893.74 --> 2894.74] and I want to steal it, -[2894.78 --> 2896.44] and I want to do it for you this morning here today. -[2896.50 --> 2897.78] In fact, I'm not sure. -[2897.84 --> 2899.26] I might have done this in a sermon already, -[2899.34 --> 2901.42] so it's possible all of you have seen this before, -[2901.48 --> 2902.96] but too bad, because it's really good, -[2903.00 --> 2903.66] and I'm going to do it again. -[2903.66 --> 2905.46] So here's a rope, right? -[2905.52 --> 2906.24] We see this rope? -[2906.76 --> 2908.74] This rope, it goes on forever. -[2908.96 --> 2909.34] It doesn't. -[2909.44 --> 2910.08] It ends behind a curtain, -[2910.12 --> 2911.28] but it just goes on forever. -[2911.40 --> 2912.20] Use your imagination. -[2912.36 --> 2914.94] This rope, it extends, and it never ends, -[2914.96 --> 2915.96] and it goes on forever. -[2916.68 --> 2918.52] And this little taped part here -[2918.52 --> 2919.80] is at the end of the rope. -[2919.90 --> 2923.92] Now, this rope represents your existence. -[2924.90 --> 2926.82] It represents your existence. -[2927.04 --> 2928.30] So God created you, -[2928.64 --> 2931.82] and now you exist forever, for eternity. -[2931.82 --> 2934.72] This little taped part here, though, -[2934.78 --> 2935.78] at the end of the rope, -[2936.02 --> 2937.78] this is your existence on Earth. -[2938.46 --> 2939.48] So you're born, -[2939.84 --> 2940.74] and then you go to school, -[2941.24 --> 2942.38] and you make some decisions, -[2942.86 --> 2944.10] and who knows what you do. -[2944.14 --> 2945.04] You get a job, -[2945.08 --> 2946.28] and you buy that nice car, -[2946.38 --> 2947.24] and then you retire, -[2947.44 --> 2949.30] and then eventually you die, -[2950.00 --> 2951.34] and then there's this. -[2952.20 --> 2953.28] All of this. -[2954.42 --> 2956.52] And Francis Chan's point in this illustration -[2956.52 --> 2959.68] is we spend so much of our time -[2959.68 --> 2962.42] on this Earth worried about this. -[2964.06 --> 2966.00] And we don't think about this. -[2967.18 --> 2969.64] We forget to think about the eternity -[2969.64 --> 2971.74] that follows this. -[2972.80 --> 2974.56] And I think that's what the question -[2974.56 --> 2975.68] is getting at this morning. -[2975.84 --> 2978.76] Why do we not talk about what this is? -[2978.94 --> 2979.74] What is this? -[2979.86 --> 2980.58] What is heaven? -[2980.72 --> 2981.48] What is hell? -[2981.48 --> 2984.86] And why do we spend so much time -[2984.86 --> 2985.76] talking about this? -[2985.92 --> 2986.94] So hold on to this. -[2987.04 --> 2987.90] We'll come back to it. -[2989.26 --> 2991.34] But let that sort of sink in your brains -[2991.34 --> 2992.30] for a little bit. -[2995.10 --> 2996.86] The first question we're going to get to first. -[2996.96 --> 2998.02] Is hell real? -[2998.80 --> 2999.72] Now this is a question -[2999.72 --> 3001.70] that's captured the imagination -[3001.70 --> 3003.56] of people honestly forever. -[3004.52 --> 3004.96] However, -[3005.14 --> 3007.32] what was once more of a black and white issue -[3007.32 --> 3008.28] for a long time -[3008.28 --> 3010.20] has definitely become more gray -[3010.20 --> 3013.44] over the last decade or so. -[3013.98 --> 3015.54] Especially out here in the West. -[3015.64 --> 3017.58] And while I think that graying is problematic, -[3018.00 --> 3019.62] it is nonetheless the case -[3019.62 --> 3021.02] of where we live. -[3021.12 --> 3023.18] Many Christians, in fact, right now -[3023.18 --> 3024.92] are not as sure -[3024.92 --> 3026.72] that hell is even a thing anymore. -[3027.20 --> 3028.38] A documentary came out. -[3028.70 --> 3029.90] It was called Hellbound. -[3030.00 --> 3031.28] It came out in 2012. -[3032.08 --> 3033.90] It should show up behind me on screen there. -[3034.12 --> 3036.16] It explores this issue. -[3036.16 --> 3038.34] It was actually filmed here in BC, -[3038.52 --> 3039.00] believe it or not. -[3039.06 --> 3040.64] So if you end up watching it, -[3040.68 --> 3042.56] you'll see little pieces of Abbotsford in there. -[3043.30 --> 3044.22] It became very popular. -[3044.32 --> 3045.40] It even made it to the big screen. -[3046.20 --> 3047.72] Hellbound, like all documentaries, -[3048.06 --> 3049.28] it's a pretty biased one. -[3049.62 --> 3052.82] But it explores three different views on hell -[3052.82 --> 3054.80] that Christians have. -[3055.74 --> 3057.64] These three views that they explore, -[3057.82 --> 3059.66] one is called annihilationism, -[3059.96 --> 3061.46] one is called universalism, -[3061.80 --> 3062.74] and then a third one -[3062.74 --> 3064.64] is the more traditional view of hell. -[3064.64 --> 3067.30] So, we'll pick out all three of them real quick. -[3068.04 --> 3069.98] Annihilationism gets the least screen time -[3069.98 --> 3070.84] in this documentary -[3070.84 --> 3072.34] because it's a view -[3072.34 --> 3074.02] that just isn't held by very many people. -[3074.14 --> 3075.86] But an annihilationist believes -[3075.86 --> 3076.92] that if you believe in Jesus, -[3077.04 --> 3077.62] you go to heaven. -[3078.34 --> 3079.56] If you don't believe in Jesus, -[3080.10 --> 3081.16] you just, you don't, -[3081.26 --> 3082.64] you don't go to hell. -[3082.72 --> 3084.04] You just sort of cease to be. -[3085.14 --> 3085.90] So there's no hell. -[3085.98 --> 3087.10] There's no eternal suffering. -[3087.80 --> 3089.00] An annihilationist just believes -[3089.00 --> 3090.84] you sort of just stop existing -[3090.84 --> 3091.96] in body and soul. -[3092.06 --> 3093.18] Like, poof, you're gone. -[3093.18 --> 3094.26] You're annihilated. -[3094.82 --> 3095.18] Annihilationism. -[3095.50 --> 3096.88] That's all we're going to talk about that one -[3096.88 --> 3097.68] because, like I said, -[3097.70 --> 3098.50] it's not very popular, -[3098.62 --> 3099.54] but it is one of the beliefs -[3099.54 --> 3100.72] in Christian circles right now. -[3102.16 --> 3102.84] Universalism is the one -[3102.84 --> 3103.74] we're going to talk about -[3103.74 --> 3104.94] a little bit longer. -[3105.84 --> 3107.20] A universalist believes -[3107.20 --> 3109.36] that heaven and hell are both real, -[3109.96 --> 3111.80] but everyone goes to heaven. -[3113.10 --> 3114.08] No one goes to hell. -[3115.20 --> 3116.88] They believe that God's grace is so great -[3116.88 --> 3118.80] that if you were an unbeliever when you die, -[3118.86 --> 3120.08] you would instantly realize -[3120.08 --> 3121.88] the terrible mistake you've made on this earth, -[3121.88 --> 3123.44] and that God would be gracious -[3123.44 --> 3124.30] in this afterlife, -[3125.08 --> 3126.02] and you'd enter the kingdom -[3126.02 --> 3126.88] of heaven forever. -[3127.06 --> 3128.50] Rob Bell writes a book -[3128.50 --> 3129.80] all about this. -[3129.90 --> 3130.86] Very popular book. -[3130.96 --> 3131.94] Again, I'm sure some of you -[3131.94 --> 3133.36] have read it called Love Wins. -[3133.44 --> 3135.40] It explores this thoroughly. -[3135.80 --> 3137.02] So it talks about how -[3137.02 --> 3138.84] his argument is that, -[3138.96 --> 3140.18] again, God's grace is big enough -[3140.18 --> 3142.38] that everybody goes to heaven. -[3143.12 --> 3144.18] Hellbound, that documentary -[3144.18 --> 3144.96] I mentioned as well, -[3144.98 --> 3146.52] it is biased to this direction. -[3146.62 --> 3147.66] That is the position, -[3147.78 --> 3149.44] the posture that it sort of pushes. -[3149.44 --> 3151.72] That makes sense. -[3151.84 --> 3152.46] That makes sense -[3152.46 --> 3153.54] that this book is being written. -[3153.70 --> 3154.22] That makes sense -[3154.22 --> 3155.34] that that documentary exists -[3155.34 --> 3156.36] because that makes sense -[3156.36 --> 3157.38] to our culture, doesn't it? -[3157.56 --> 3158.58] This is an extremely -[3158.58 --> 3160.76] attractive viewpoint, right? -[3161.12 --> 3162.24] Everyone goes to heaven, -[3162.38 --> 3163.52] no matter what they do, -[3163.58 --> 3165.06] no matter what they believe on earth, -[3166.12 --> 3167.68] especially out here in the West -[3167.68 --> 3169.40] where we live in this -[3169.40 --> 3171.44] extremely inclusive society, -[3171.54 --> 3172.50] or so we say we do. -[3173.24 --> 3174.94] We would be very attracted to this. -[3175.62 --> 3177.38] Our culture is very attracted to this. -[3177.38 --> 3179.98] It sure makes my rope illustration -[3179.98 --> 3181.42] useless, though, doesn't it? -[3182.82 --> 3187.02] Actually, it kind of makes life useless, -[3187.54 --> 3188.48] doesn't it? -[3189.42 --> 3192.06] Or God's missional calling -[3192.06 --> 3193.50] on our lives to go out -[3193.50 --> 3194.76] and make disciples. -[3194.86 --> 3195.72] What's the point? -[3197.12 --> 3197.96] Actually, it has a really -[3197.96 --> 3200.54] what's-the-point vibe everywhere -[3200.54 --> 3201.68] when you think about it, right? -[3202.32 --> 3203.38] It's universalism. -[3203.38 --> 3205.84] And thirdly, -[3206.14 --> 3208.28] there's the traditional view of hell. -[3209.02 --> 3209.74] And that's simply -[3209.74 --> 3211.14] the viewpoint -[3211.14 --> 3212.44] that if you believe in Jesus -[3212.44 --> 3213.80] as the author of your salvation -[3213.80 --> 3214.52] and you accept -[3214.52 --> 3215.84] his free gift of grace, -[3216.22 --> 3217.42] you go to heaven. -[3218.26 --> 3219.80] And if you reject that truth, -[3219.88 --> 3220.76] you go to hell. -[3222.44 --> 3223.40] That is not that fun. -[3223.80 --> 3224.70] That is not as fun -[3224.70 --> 3225.50] as universalism. -[3226.30 --> 3227.90] It does not seem very inclusive. -[3227.90 --> 3231.84] But I want to ask you today, -[3231.88 --> 3233.34] and I am posing this question for real. -[3233.50 --> 3235.22] I am not trying to be patronizing with this, -[3235.58 --> 3236.66] but if we read the text -[3236.66 --> 3237.44] that we read today, -[3237.52 --> 3238.44] the sheep and the goats, -[3239.38 --> 3240.70] or if we read any of the other -[3240.70 --> 3241.76] dozen or so times -[3241.76 --> 3243.30] that Jesus speaks of heaven and hell -[3243.30 --> 3244.22] in his gospels, -[3244.78 --> 3247.22] it's hard to think -[3247.22 --> 3248.16] that the traditional view -[3248.16 --> 3249.36] of hell is wrong, isn't it? -[3249.36 --> 3252.96] And maybe that makes us uncomfortable, -[3253.24 --> 3254.62] or perhaps that makes us anxious, -[3255.26 --> 3257.56] but just because we feel that way, -[3257.82 --> 3258.64] it doesn't mean -[3258.64 --> 3261.56] that we should just ignore it either, -[3261.64 --> 3263.88] or come up with some new way of thinking. -[3264.68 --> 3264.92] Right? -[3266.18 --> 3267.54] Again, I pose this honestly. -[3268.10 --> 3268.82] Francis Chan, -[3268.98 --> 3270.28] turns out I'm a big fan of his today, -[3270.36 --> 3270.64] apparently, -[3271.28 --> 3272.44] he writes this book -[3272.44 --> 3273.98] with a guy named Preston Sprinkle, -[3274.20 --> 3275.24] which is a great name. -[3276.48 --> 3277.92] It's called Erasing Hell. -[3278.38 --> 3279.18] It's called Erasing Hell -[3279.18 --> 3280.80] What God Said About Eternity -[3280.80 --> 3283.00] and the Things We've Made Up. -[3284.18 --> 3284.78] It's a good book. -[3284.88 --> 3286.08] It's in response to -[3286.08 --> 3287.82] the issue of universalism, -[3287.92 --> 3289.26] and they say in this book -[3289.26 --> 3290.52] that sometimes we don't want -[3290.52 --> 3291.18] to believe in hell. -[3291.26 --> 3292.00] It's a touchy subject. -[3292.10 --> 3292.94] We don't want to go near it. -[3293.18 --> 3294.26] But, and I quote them here, -[3294.66 --> 3297.30] we cannot afford to be wrong -[3297.30 --> 3298.44] about this issue. -[3301.14 --> 3302.24] The truth is, -[3302.50 --> 3304.66] when we read passages -[3304.66 --> 3305.60] like ours today, -[3305.64 --> 3306.64] it makes us uncomfortable -[3306.64 --> 3308.10] that God is going to judge people -[3308.10 --> 3309.60] at the end of their lives. -[3309.66 --> 3311.00] The sheep going to heaven, -[3311.10 --> 3312.48] the goats going to hell, -[3312.56 --> 3314.66] but the reality is -[3314.66 --> 3316.50] God is the judge of his creation. -[3318.78 --> 3320.02] And if we give it some thought, -[3320.48 --> 3321.22] that's okay. -[3321.72 --> 3322.56] In fact, that's good. -[3324.00 --> 3324.88] Peter Shackle says, -[3324.98 --> 3326.12] the image of a judge -[3326.12 --> 3327.38] imposing a sentence -[3327.38 --> 3328.26] upon the guilty -[3328.26 --> 3330.82] should vindicate God. -[3331.76 --> 3332.62] Not the opposite. -[3332.62 --> 3335.34] A judge in a courtroom is, -[3335.42 --> 3337.10] or at least ought to always be, -[3337.66 --> 3339.34] not a vindictive punisher, -[3339.84 --> 3341.60] but one who weighs evidence -[3341.60 --> 3342.14] objectively, -[3342.34 --> 3344.18] reaches conclusions impartially, -[3344.18 --> 3346.36] and imposes sentences -[3346.36 --> 3347.20] equitably. -[3348.08 --> 3349.68] The king in Jesus' parable -[3349.68 --> 3350.56] is not a prosecutor -[3350.56 --> 3352.08] accusing the defendants -[3352.08 --> 3353.56] and building a case against them. -[3354.44 --> 3355.50] The defendants -[3355.50 --> 3356.64] have already been found guilty. -[3356.76 --> 3358.20] Their deeds have been, -[3359.04 --> 3360.04] or have condemned them. -[3360.04 --> 3363.76] Their life has condemned them. -[3364.14 --> 3364.36] God, -[3364.94 --> 3366.84] God is the ultimate judge. -[3366.96 --> 3368.40] We are not. -[3368.82 --> 3370.36] We don't decide -[3370.36 --> 3371.36] what heaven is, -[3371.42 --> 3372.52] or what hell is, -[3372.58 --> 3373.94] or who gets to go, -[3374.12 --> 3375.62] or what people will be -[3375.62 --> 3376.24] ending up doing -[3376.24 --> 3376.90] in their eternity. -[3377.04 --> 3377.20] No. -[3377.76 --> 3379.16] God does. -[3380.14 --> 3381.12] There's no use for us -[3381.12 --> 3382.14] to design some sort of -[3382.14 --> 3382.98] new rubric -[3382.98 --> 3383.88] for judgment -[3383.88 --> 3384.66] in a cosmos -[3384.66 --> 3385.28] that honestly -[3385.28 --> 3386.50] we barely understand, -[3386.60 --> 3387.46] let alone function -[3387.46 --> 3388.38] adequately in. -[3390.04 --> 3392.04] He is the ultimate judge. -[3392.10 --> 3392.84] He is the ultimate -[3392.84 --> 3394.70] fair judge. -[3395.42 --> 3396.50] It's His universe. -[3399.30 --> 3399.60] So, -[3400.60 --> 3401.74] hell is real, -[3402.30 --> 3403.28] and heaven is real, -[3403.40 --> 3405.34] but what are they exactly? -[3405.56 --> 3406.34] Question number two. -[3406.98 --> 3408.60] What is hell? -[3409.36 --> 3410.36] Great question. -[3410.82 --> 3411.96] Borderline unanswerable. -[3412.08 --> 3412.66] But let's try. -[3413.58 --> 3414.16] Like I said, -[3414.24 --> 3415.94] Jesus does speak of hell -[3415.94 --> 3417.46] quite a bit in the Gospels. -[3417.46 --> 3417.66] So, -[3418.02 --> 3418.72] take for example -[3418.72 --> 3419.46] Matthew 11, -[3419.58 --> 3420.46] 23 to 24. -[3420.58 --> 3421.32] I didn't slap that up -[3421.32 --> 3422.12] on the screen behind me, -[3422.18 --> 3422.90] so you're going to have to look -[3422.90 --> 3424.02] at your own Bibles for this one. -[3424.58 --> 3424.84] Jesus, -[3424.96 --> 3426.24] He's speaking about towns -[3426.24 --> 3427.22] and people who have seen -[3427.22 --> 3427.84] and heard Him -[3427.84 --> 3429.28] and heard the message, -[3429.40 --> 3430.22] the Gospel message, -[3430.56 --> 3432.24] but they are unrepentant -[3432.24 --> 3432.70] and they're stuck -[3432.70 --> 3433.74] in their wickedness -[3433.74 --> 3434.94] and they choose sin over Him. -[3435.18 --> 3436.00] And Jesus says -[3436.00 --> 3437.02] in Matthew 11, -[3437.10 --> 3438.08] 23 to 24, -[3438.52 --> 3439.64] to the city of Capernaum, -[3439.68 --> 3440.58] which is not a good city, -[3440.96 --> 3441.32] and you, -[3441.42 --> 3441.90] Capernaum, -[3442.60 --> 3442.90] you, -[3443.10 --> 3444.08] or will you be lifted -[3444.08 --> 3444.66] to the heavens? -[3445.56 --> 3445.90] No, -[3446.70 --> 3447.76] you will go down -[3447.76 --> 3448.42] to Hades. -[3449.84 --> 3450.78] For if the miracles -[3450.78 --> 3451.58] that were performed -[3451.58 --> 3452.16] in you -[3452.16 --> 3452.82] had been performed -[3452.82 --> 3453.44] in Sodom, -[3453.56 --> 3454.24] if you remember Sodom -[3454.24 --> 3454.72] and Gomorrah -[3454.72 --> 3455.38] in the Old Testament, -[3456.00 --> 3456.84] Sodom would have remained -[3456.84 --> 3457.48] to this day. -[3458.36 --> 3459.04] But I tell you -[3459.04 --> 3459.52] that it would be -[3459.52 --> 3460.76] more bearable for Sodom -[3460.76 --> 3461.60] on the day of judgment -[3461.60 --> 3462.22] than for you. -[3463.56 --> 3464.48] You would go down -[3464.48 --> 3464.96] to Hades. -[3465.08 --> 3465.92] We read the word Hades -[3465.92 --> 3466.62] in our Bibles, -[3466.92 --> 3467.32] but in Greek, -[3467.44 --> 3468.60] Jesus uses the word -[3468.60 --> 3470.02] Gehenna here. -[3471.04 --> 3471.28] Now, -[3471.30 --> 3472.52] this is not the only place -[3472.52 --> 3473.64] that Jesus speaks of hell. -[3473.70 --> 3474.28] He speaks of hell -[3474.28 --> 3475.12] throughout the Gospels, -[3475.28 --> 3476.40] like Mark 9, -[3476.52 --> 3477.46] 43 to 48, -[3477.74 --> 3478.62] or Luke 10, -[3478.82 --> 3479.76] 12 to 15, -[3479.84 --> 3480.74] or John 15, -[3481.08 --> 3481.54] verse 6, -[3481.58 --> 3482.38] and over half a dozen -[3482.38 --> 3483.44] other times. -[3483.96 --> 3485.86] And Jesus often uses -[3485.86 --> 3487.40] the word Gehenna -[3487.40 --> 3489.60] to describe hell. -[3491.06 --> 3491.32] Now, -[3491.36 --> 3491.92] what's interesting -[3491.92 --> 3492.64] is Gehenna -[3492.64 --> 3493.64] is an actual place. -[3493.72 --> 3494.32] It is a real, -[3494.58 --> 3495.50] physical place, -[3495.54 --> 3496.24] and it's a reference -[3496.24 --> 3497.02] that not only -[3497.02 --> 3498.08] would have Jesus' readers -[3498.08 --> 3498.48] under, -[3498.56 --> 3499.12] or a listener, -[3499.26 --> 3499.42] sorry, -[3499.54 --> 3500.00] understood, -[3500.56 --> 3501.24] but a lot of them -[3501.24 --> 3501.96] probably would have -[3501.96 --> 3502.68] been there before. -[3503.84 --> 3505.20] Gehenna is this valley -[3505.20 --> 3507.64] where ancient and evil -[3507.64 --> 3508.86] Old Testament kings -[3508.86 --> 3510.42] sacrificed babies -[3510.42 --> 3511.38] to false gods. -[3513.00 --> 3513.84] In the Old Testament, -[3513.96 --> 3515.02] the good king Josiah -[3515.02 --> 3516.14] eventually outlawed -[3516.14 --> 3517.22] child sacrifice, -[3517.40 --> 3518.14] which, you know, -[3518.22 --> 3519.08] good for him. -[3520.30 --> 3521.76] But the physical valley -[3521.76 --> 3522.46] where all of these -[3522.46 --> 3524.22] horrific acts took place, -[3524.30 --> 3525.20] they still existed -[3525.20 --> 3526.14] in Jesus' day. -[3526.64 --> 3527.66] It had actually become -[3527.66 --> 3528.36] a dump. -[3529.58 --> 3530.40] The Gehenna Valley -[3530.40 --> 3531.28] turned into a dump -[3531.28 --> 3533.46] where people burned garbage -[3533.46 --> 3534.54] and the dead animals -[3534.54 --> 3536.00] that died in their flocks. -[3536.08 --> 3537.78] It was always smoking -[3537.78 --> 3538.76] and on fire -[3538.76 --> 3540.10] and just reeked -[3540.10 --> 3540.94] of hot garbage -[3540.94 --> 3542.10] and smoldering death. -[3542.56 --> 3543.82] That's what Gehenna was. -[3544.72 --> 3545.84] A smoldering pit -[3545.84 --> 3546.92] of decay -[3546.92 --> 3548.18] and repugnancies. -[3548.92 --> 3549.40] And that -[3549.40 --> 3550.68] was the image -[3550.68 --> 3551.82] that Jesus went to -[3551.82 --> 3552.88] time and time again -[3552.88 --> 3553.82] when he spoke of hell. -[3553.82 --> 3557.26] Now, I don't think -[3557.26 --> 3557.76] it's a secret -[3557.76 --> 3558.74] that Jesus is using -[3558.74 --> 3560.02] Gehenna symbolically here. -[3560.08 --> 3560.50] If you die, -[3560.56 --> 3561.14] you don't end up -[3561.14 --> 3562.92] going to this dump. -[3563.50 --> 3564.84] But when he references hell, -[3564.92 --> 3566.30] he uses it to symbolize -[3566.30 --> 3567.16] what hell is, -[3567.20 --> 3568.00] which makes sense. -[3568.08 --> 3569.52] However, by using symbols, -[3569.66 --> 3570.94] what that doesn't do for us -[3570.94 --> 3572.36] is paint this beautiful -[3572.36 --> 3573.12] literal picture -[3573.12 --> 3573.80] of what hell -[3573.80 --> 3574.70] actually looks like. -[3575.18 --> 3576.72] So we often think of hell -[3576.72 --> 3577.70] as lakes of fire -[3577.70 --> 3578.48] and brimstone, -[3578.60 --> 3579.64] but many have taken -[3579.64 --> 3580.88] a very creative approach -[3580.88 --> 3582.36] to what hell could be. -[3582.36 --> 3584.78] Perhaps none are more famous -[3584.78 --> 3586.50] than Dante's interpretation. -[3587.42 --> 3589.06] Anybody heard Dante's Inferno? -[3589.20 --> 3589.66] Hands up. -[3589.94 --> 3590.88] Is that a popular thing? -[3591.24 --> 3592.26] Four people only? -[3592.70 --> 3593.02] Really? -[3593.30 --> 3594.32] I don't believe it. -[3594.84 --> 3595.64] People are not -[3595.64 --> 3596.80] raising their hands. -[3597.20 --> 3597.80] It's this big, -[3597.96 --> 3598.80] giant poem, -[3598.94 --> 3599.86] Dante's Inferno. -[3599.94 --> 3601.02] There's a movie based on it. -[3601.06 --> 3601.88] There's a video game -[3601.88 --> 3602.44] based on it. -[3602.52 --> 3603.40] There's paintings -[3603.40 --> 3604.24] and literature. -[3604.64 --> 3605.28] Very popular. -[3605.40 --> 3606.00] In his poem, -[3606.74 --> 3607.58] hell is depicted -[3607.58 --> 3609.40] as nine concentric -[3609.40 --> 3610.56] circles of torment -[3610.56 --> 3611.88] located within the earth. -[3611.88 --> 3613.48] And as you spiral down, -[3613.96 --> 3615.22] the sins of humanity -[3615.22 --> 3615.84] are worse -[3615.84 --> 3616.40] and therefore -[3616.40 --> 3617.18] the punishments -[3617.18 --> 3617.74] are worse. -[3618.20 --> 3618.58] And so, -[3618.78 --> 3620.20] there's violent storms -[3620.20 --> 3621.10] in the second ring -[3621.10 --> 3622.16] for those kind of sinners -[3622.16 --> 3622.88] but not so bad. -[3622.94 --> 3624.20] There's storms there for them. -[3624.54 --> 3625.34] Rivers of fire -[3625.34 --> 3625.88] in the fifth. -[3625.96 --> 3626.52] Now we're talking -[3626.52 --> 3627.32] about real torture. -[3628.12 --> 3629.16] Flaming tombs -[3629.16 --> 3630.10] in the sixth rings. -[3630.20 --> 3630.70] We're going down -[3630.70 --> 3631.16] even further. -[3631.28 --> 3632.18] And in the bottom level, -[3632.52 --> 3633.96] the ninth circle of hell, -[3634.30 --> 3635.60] there are frozen lakes -[3635.60 --> 3636.26] of ice -[3636.26 --> 3637.44] which people are stuck in -[3637.44 --> 3638.66] for the rest of time. -[3639.20 --> 3640.58] That is Dante's take -[3640.58 --> 3641.10] on hell. -[3641.40 --> 3641.88] Others view it -[3641.88 --> 3642.40] quite differently. -[3643.46 --> 3645.26] Rabbi Haim told a parable -[3645.26 --> 3646.48] saying that all inhabitants -[3646.48 --> 3648.32] of hell are given access -[3648.32 --> 3649.06] to good food. -[3649.86 --> 3650.94] But the utensils -[3650.94 --> 3651.64] that they are given -[3651.64 --> 3652.72] are far too long -[3652.72 --> 3653.44] and unwieldy -[3653.44 --> 3654.54] to serve oneself with. -[3654.62 --> 3655.60] You can't get the food -[3655.60 --> 3656.18] in your mouth. -[3656.74 --> 3657.64] But rather than help -[3657.64 --> 3658.56] each other out in hell, -[3658.62 --> 3659.86] we're all selfish down there, -[3659.86 --> 3661.12] you just struggle -[3661.12 --> 3662.60] with this long spoon -[3662.60 --> 3663.90] and never get to enjoy -[3663.90 --> 3665.20] the sustenance down there -[3665.20 --> 3667.46] and you constantly starve. -[3669.26 --> 3669.80] C.S. Lewis, -[3669.94 --> 3670.28] in his book -[3670.28 --> 3670.98] The Great Divorce, -[3671.00 --> 3671.64] he paints a picture -[3671.64 --> 3672.26] of what he thinks -[3672.26 --> 3672.78] hell is like. -[3673.12 --> 3673.94] He imagines hell -[3673.94 --> 3675.00] as this gray city -[3675.00 --> 3676.98] where it's always rainy. -[3677.48 --> 3678.48] It's always gloomy. -[3678.56 --> 3679.54] The streets are empty. -[3680.08 --> 3680.64] They're lined -[3680.64 --> 3682.00] with dingy houses, -[3682.38 --> 3683.76] small tobacco shops, -[3683.92 --> 3685.06] windowless warehouses. -[3685.82 --> 3686.98] The citizens of hell, -[3687.12 --> 3688.00] they're quarrelsome. -[3688.12 --> 3689.32] They fight all the time. -[3689.38 --> 3689.78] And the streets -[3689.78 --> 3690.76] actually are quite empty -[3690.76 --> 3691.82] because the residents -[3691.82 --> 3692.66] keep moving further -[3692.66 --> 3693.32] and further away -[3693.32 --> 3693.82] from each other -[3693.82 --> 3694.48] because they can't -[3694.48 --> 3694.94] stop fighting. -[3695.20 --> 3697.04] Interestingly, -[3697.30 --> 3698.80] C.S. Lewis thinks -[3698.80 --> 3699.52] the residents of hell, -[3699.56 --> 3700.62] they can construct a house -[3700.62 --> 3702.86] or even various commodities -[3702.86 --> 3703.96] just by thinking of them, -[3704.20 --> 3705.08] which I find fascinating. -[3705.22 --> 3706.60] But the houses -[3706.60 --> 3707.44] that they think up -[3707.44 --> 3709.00] and the sustenance -[3709.00 --> 3710.50] that they think of -[3710.50 --> 3711.00] aren't good. -[3711.24 --> 3712.24] The houses they think up -[3712.24 --> 3713.46] don't keep out the rain -[3713.46 --> 3714.20] or the intruders -[3714.20 --> 3714.88] and the sustenance -[3714.88 --> 3715.76] they think up is gross -[3715.76 --> 3716.96] and it doesn't satisfy anything. -[3717.50 --> 3718.30] It's a tiny town. -[3718.82 --> 3719.56] There's nothing to do. -[3720.38 --> 3721.20] There's nothing to see. -[3723.92 --> 3725.06] Three different pictures -[3725.06 --> 3725.42] of hell. -[3725.42 --> 3726.62] Who knows? -[3727.42 --> 3728.48] But the truth is, -[3728.54 --> 3729.32] what hell looks like -[3729.32 --> 3730.14] is anyone's guess. -[3730.22 --> 3731.24] But what we do know -[3731.24 --> 3732.88] about hell -[3732.88 --> 3733.60] is that God -[3733.60 --> 3735.40] is not there. -[3737.40 --> 3739.22] And if God is not there, -[3740.38 --> 3740.76] hope -[3740.76 --> 3742.36] is lost. -[3743.50 --> 3744.84] Love does not exist. -[3746.44 --> 3747.60] Selfishness would reign. -[3747.60 --> 3750.64] And that in and of itself -[3750.64 --> 3752.10] is torturous enough. -[3753.24 --> 3754.60] It's a smoldering pit -[3754.60 --> 3755.36] of decay -[3755.36 --> 3757.24] and repugnancies. -[3758.52 --> 3759.02] So whether hell -[3759.02 --> 3760.02] is a sea of sulfur -[3760.02 --> 3762.36] or spirals of torture -[3762.36 --> 3763.36] or a kitchen -[3763.36 --> 3763.96] with spoons -[3763.96 --> 3764.72] that are too big -[3764.72 --> 3766.76] or a long, -[3767.14 --> 3767.96] tiny, -[3768.44 --> 3768.78] gloomy, -[3768.96 --> 3769.56] gray town, -[3770.96 --> 3772.38] hell has no God. -[3772.84 --> 3773.88] And without God, -[3774.54 --> 3775.98] you don't want to be there. -[3775.98 --> 3778.94] Let's switch. -[3779.06 --> 3779.80] Let's switch gears. -[3779.90 --> 3780.30] What's heaven? -[3780.46 --> 3781.26] What's heaven then? -[3781.52 --> 3782.26] Let's talk about -[3782.26 --> 3782.88] something nice. -[3783.54 --> 3784.42] The Bible paints -[3784.42 --> 3785.46] some awesome pictures -[3785.46 --> 3786.14] of heaven -[3786.14 --> 3787.64] in the book of Revelation. -[3788.64 --> 3789.08] Again, -[3789.14 --> 3790.06] there's some symbolism here, -[3790.12 --> 3791.08] but listen to the words -[3791.08 --> 3792.50] of Revelation 21, -[3792.76 --> 3793.90] verses 1 to 5. -[3794.14 --> 3794.70] And I think that's -[3794.70 --> 3795.20] behind me there. -[3795.24 --> 3795.70] Yes, perfect. -[3795.70 --> 3796.88] It says, -[3796.88 --> 3798.40] Then I saw a new heaven -[3798.40 --> 3799.28] and a new earth, -[3799.40 --> 3800.22] for the first heaven -[3800.22 --> 3801.42] and the first earth -[3801.42 --> 3802.26] had passed away, -[3802.58 --> 3803.64] and there was no longer -[3803.64 --> 3804.22] any sea. -[3805.00 --> 3806.20] I saw the holy city, -[3806.60 --> 3807.46] the new Jerusalem, -[3807.66 --> 3809.02] coming down out of heaven -[3809.02 --> 3809.70] from God, -[3810.24 --> 3811.46] prepared as a bride, -[3812.22 --> 3812.98] beautifully dressed -[3812.98 --> 3813.60] for her husband. -[3814.44 --> 3815.52] And I heard a loud voice -[3815.52 --> 3816.26] from the throne saying, -[3816.34 --> 3816.52] Look, -[3816.98 --> 3818.02] God's dwelling place -[3818.02 --> 3819.20] is now among the people, -[3819.24 --> 3820.46] and he will dwell with them. -[3820.68 --> 3821.78] They will be his people, -[3821.86 --> 3822.62] and God himself -[3822.62 --> 3823.40] will be with them -[3823.40 --> 3824.60] and be their God. -[3824.60 --> 3826.66] He will wipe every tear -[3826.66 --> 3827.52] from their eyes. -[3827.86 --> 3828.96] There will be no more death -[3828.96 --> 3829.74] or mourning -[3829.74 --> 3831.40] or crying or pain, -[3831.78 --> 3833.02] for the old order -[3833.02 --> 3834.14] of things has passed. -[3835.32 --> 3835.94] He who was seated -[3835.94 --> 3836.72] on the throne said, -[3836.82 --> 3838.24] I am making everything new. -[3838.78 --> 3839.16] And then he said, -[3839.22 --> 3839.88] Write this down, -[3839.96 --> 3841.08] for these words -[3841.08 --> 3843.34] are trustworthy and true. -[3844.08 --> 3845.32] If you go one chapter further, -[3845.40 --> 3846.44] read the first five verses -[3846.44 --> 3847.52] of Revelation 22. -[3847.94 --> 3849.60] It continues and says, -[3849.66 --> 3850.78] The angel showed me, -[3850.86 --> 3851.88] this is the writer John, -[3852.46 --> 3853.82] the angel showed me -[3853.82 --> 3855.68] the river of water of life, -[3855.88 --> 3857.24] as clear as crystal, -[3857.38 --> 3859.00] flowing from the throne of God, -[3859.16 --> 3860.78] and of the lamb down the middle -[3860.78 --> 3862.36] of the great street of the city. -[3862.66 --> 3863.98] On each side of the river -[3863.98 --> 3865.34] stood the tree of life, -[3865.86 --> 3867.62] bearing twelve crops of fruit, -[3867.74 --> 3869.34] yielding its fruit every month. -[3869.70 --> 3870.92] And the leaves of the tree -[3870.92 --> 3872.46] are for the healing of the nations. -[3872.72 --> 3874.58] No longer will there be any curse. -[3875.14 --> 3876.14] The throne of God -[3876.14 --> 3877.72] and of the lamb -[3877.72 --> 3878.68] will be in the city, -[3878.82 --> 3880.26] and his servants will serve him. -[3880.26 --> 3881.40] They will see his face, -[3881.48 --> 3882.48] and his name will be -[3882.48 --> 3883.42] on their foreheads. -[3883.72 --> 3885.04] There will be no more night. -[3885.82 --> 3886.78] They will not need -[3886.78 --> 3888.02] the light of a lamp -[3888.02 --> 3889.04] or the light of the sun, -[3889.10 --> 3889.92] for the Lord God -[3889.92 --> 3890.74] will give them light, -[3890.90 --> 3891.66] and they will reign -[3891.66 --> 3893.54] forever and ever. -[3895.22 --> 3896.56] When I read these examples, -[3896.64 --> 3897.34] this is what I read. -[3898.54 --> 3899.78] Heaven is a beautiful city, -[3900.28 --> 3901.36] surrounded by rivers -[3901.36 --> 3902.80] and trees and gardens. -[3903.12 --> 3904.98] We will dwell with God there. -[3905.78 --> 3906.96] There will be no more sadness, -[3906.96 --> 3908.06] no more grief, -[3908.50 --> 3909.88] no more anxiety, -[3910.44 --> 3911.08] or depression, -[3911.50 --> 3912.20] or illness, -[3912.44 --> 3914.02] or pain of any kind. -[3915.16 --> 3915.96] There will be life, -[3916.90 --> 3917.76] not just human life, -[3917.84 --> 3918.80] but life of all kinds, -[3918.94 --> 3920.66] rivers as clear as crystal, -[3920.80 --> 3922.00] trees thriving -[3922.00 --> 3922.82] and more abundant -[3922.82 --> 3924.24] than any we have ever seen. -[3924.48 --> 3926.08] There will be food and drink -[3926.08 --> 3927.66] and unending sustenance, -[3927.74 --> 3929.56] no more hunger or thirst. -[3930.20 --> 3931.10] All wounds, -[3931.80 --> 3932.84] physical and emotional, -[3932.96 --> 3934.34] will fully be healed, -[3934.34 --> 3936.28] and no memory of pain -[3936.28 --> 3937.18] will ever exist. -[3938.58 --> 3939.34] We will be marked -[3939.34 --> 3940.28] as God's children, -[3940.42 --> 3942.02] children of a perfect Father, -[3942.14 --> 3944.68] fully under His wonderful care. -[3944.78 --> 3946.24] There will be no darkness, -[3946.90 --> 3947.84] no temptation, -[3948.08 --> 3948.64] no guilt, -[3948.82 --> 3949.62] no shame, -[3950.12 --> 3951.28] and no fear. -[3952.78 --> 3954.66] Only love and fulfillment -[3954.66 --> 3956.74] and peace and light. -[3957.48 --> 3959.18] Isn't that amazing? -[3961.82 --> 3962.84] Now, right now, -[3962.84 --> 3963.96] when we die, -[3964.12 --> 3965.26] our souls go to be -[3965.26 --> 3966.32] with Jesus in heaven, -[3966.80 --> 3967.54] which is amazing. -[3969.06 --> 3970.80] But when Jesus comes again, -[3971.34 --> 3972.58] at the end of time, -[3973.14 --> 3974.50] that heaven will come down, -[3974.56 --> 3975.58] and there will be a new heaven -[3975.58 --> 3976.46] and a new earth, -[3976.70 --> 3978.22] and our souls will join -[3978.22 --> 3979.36] our bodies. -[3981.04 --> 3982.34] And then we will dance -[3982.34 --> 3983.94] and laugh and swim -[3983.94 --> 3985.28] and play and rest -[3985.28 --> 3986.32] and read and eat -[3986.32 --> 3987.34] and drink and sing -[3987.34 --> 3989.24] and pick a verb -[3989.24 --> 3990.08] that you love doing. -[3990.08 --> 3992.80] and we'll be fully able -[3992.80 --> 3994.08] to enjoy the things -[3994.08 --> 3995.00] of this earth -[3995.00 --> 3995.68] that we love -[3995.68 --> 3997.34] without needing to worry -[3997.34 --> 3998.48] about the dark things -[3998.48 --> 3999.26] in our life -[3999.26 --> 4001.14] ever again. -[4007.36 --> 4008.64] And we won't have to worry -[4008.64 --> 4009.00] about them -[4009.00 --> 4009.74] for all of eternity. -[4009.74 --> 4014.36] All of this, -[4015.22 --> 4016.72] according to the word of God, -[4017.20 --> 4017.96] is trustworthy -[4017.96 --> 4019.34] and true. -[4022.42 --> 4023.54] So if heaven and hell -[4023.54 --> 4024.04] are real, -[4024.46 --> 4025.18] why don't we talk -[4025.18 --> 4026.04] about them that often? -[4027.12 --> 4028.12] Why don't we talk about them -[4028.12 --> 4028.68] from the pulpit? -[4029.94 --> 4031.02] This is another good question. -[4032.38 --> 4033.18] It's also one that I -[4033.18 --> 4034.82] think is relative, -[4035.02 --> 4035.90] how often is often. -[4036.06 --> 4036.86] I think it is mentioned, -[4037.02 --> 4038.62] but perhaps we don't talk -[4038.62 --> 4039.28] about it that often. -[4039.36 --> 4040.02] And I think there are -[4040.02 --> 4040.70] reasons why. -[4040.92 --> 4041.62] I think there's actually -[4041.62 --> 4042.52] two reasons why. -[4044.30 --> 4045.02] Reason number one, -[4045.08 --> 4045.56] for those of you -[4045.56 --> 4046.42] who are sitting here -[4046.42 --> 4047.88] or who are watching online, -[4049.12 --> 4050.40] who have put their faith -[4050.40 --> 4051.20] in Jesus Christ -[4051.20 --> 4051.94] as their savior, -[4052.74 --> 4053.96] the reason that we don't -[4053.96 --> 4055.22] discuss heaven or hell -[4055.22 --> 4056.32] all that often to you -[4056.32 --> 4057.78] is because you're -[4057.78 --> 4058.74] already saved. -[4059.94 --> 4060.62] The truth is, -[4060.90 --> 4061.50] while these things -[4061.50 --> 4062.08] are maybe fun -[4062.08 --> 4062.92] and interesting to discuss, -[4063.00 --> 4063.88] if you put your faith -[4063.88 --> 4064.46] in Jesus, -[4064.78 --> 4066.14] your salvation from hell -[4066.14 --> 4067.36] and a promised eternity -[4067.36 --> 4067.96] with God -[4067.96 --> 4068.82] is already -[4068.82 --> 4069.84] a concrete reality -[4069.84 --> 4070.32] for you. -[4070.86 --> 4071.46] There's no need -[4071.46 --> 4072.28] to discuss hell -[4072.28 --> 4073.10] if you believe -[4073.10 --> 4073.78] because hell isn't -[4073.78 --> 4074.76] even within your grasp. -[4075.52 --> 4076.80] Jesus has already -[4076.80 --> 4077.64] saved the world. -[4078.44 --> 4079.20] It's just not been -[4079.20 --> 4080.22] fully revealed yet. -[4080.46 --> 4081.94] It's already not yet. -[4082.36 --> 4083.72] Jesus lived on this earth -[4083.72 --> 4084.80] the sinless life -[4084.80 --> 4085.58] that we have all -[4085.58 --> 4086.42] failed to live. -[4086.62 --> 4087.34] And then he died -[4087.34 --> 4088.34] a death on the cross -[4088.34 --> 4089.98] that we all deserve to die -[4089.98 --> 4092.56] so that we wouldn't have to. -[4093.52 --> 4094.98] He atoned for our sinfulness. -[4095.32 --> 4096.84] He was raised from the dead -[4096.84 --> 4097.82] and he has defeated -[4097.82 --> 4099.70] sin and death forever. -[4099.70 --> 4100.72] For you and I -[4100.72 --> 4101.70] and all who believe -[4101.70 --> 4103.60] this is the truth. -[4104.52 --> 4105.68] So there's nothing -[4105.68 --> 4106.84] for you to do -[4106.84 --> 4108.22] to gain your salvation -[4108.22 --> 4109.42] but believe that Christ -[4109.42 --> 4110.20] has accomplished -[4110.20 --> 4110.88] this already. -[4112.10 --> 4113.02] Grace is yours. -[4113.16 --> 4114.66] Forgiveness is yours. -[4115.44 --> 4116.84] Eternity is yours. -[4117.14 --> 4118.12] If you believe this -[4118.12 --> 4118.74] to be true, -[4118.94 --> 4119.60] there's no need -[4119.60 --> 4120.78] to worry about hell -[4120.78 --> 4122.16] because heaven -[4122.16 --> 4122.80] is already -[4122.80 --> 4123.90] the concrete reality -[4123.90 --> 4124.46] for you. -[4125.26 --> 4126.52] You're just not there yet. -[4128.16 --> 4129.32] So that's the first one. -[4129.82 --> 4130.52] Second answer, -[4130.62 --> 4131.74] what about those -[4131.74 --> 4132.50] who don't believe? -[4132.62 --> 4133.60] Should we not be talking -[4133.60 --> 4134.46] about this in church -[4134.46 --> 4135.30] more for those -[4135.30 --> 4136.16] who don't believe? -[4137.02 --> 4138.04] Why don't we talk -[4138.04 --> 4138.78] about this -[4138.78 --> 4140.40] in our mission? -[4142.98 --> 4143.70] If you're someone -[4143.70 --> 4144.46] who doesn't believe -[4144.46 --> 4145.06] here today -[4145.06 --> 4146.54] or if you're watching online, -[4147.22 --> 4148.52] should we not be bringing -[4148.52 --> 4149.34] this truth to you? -[4149.34 --> 4151.38] Why don't we talk -[4151.38 --> 4152.16] about this for you? -[4154.36 --> 4155.16] But if you're someone -[4155.16 --> 4156.18] who doesn't believe, -[4156.98 --> 4158.16] you don't need someone -[4158.16 --> 4158.86] to talk to you -[4158.86 --> 4159.70] about heaven and hell. -[4160.54 --> 4161.44] You need someone -[4161.44 --> 4162.12] to talk to you -[4162.12 --> 4162.76] about Jesus. -[4165.98 --> 4166.90] So some Christians, -[4167.02 --> 4167.44] some churches, -[4167.60 --> 4168.20] they use heaven -[4168.20 --> 4168.98] and they use hell -[4168.98 --> 4169.54] as their sort of -[4169.54 --> 4170.40] missional platform. -[4170.72 --> 4172.08] They love a good -[4172.08 --> 4173.56] turn or burn sermon. -[4174.34 --> 4175.32] You see it in the States -[4175.32 --> 4176.08] quite a bit actually. -[4176.20 --> 4176.92] It's creeping up here -[4176.92 --> 4178.08] in Canada a little bit too -[4178.08 --> 4179.24] but in the States -[4179.24 --> 4180.02] you see it all the time. -[4180.10 --> 4180.84] People on the corners -[4180.84 --> 4181.46] of intersections -[4181.46 --> 4182.78] with giant big signs -[4182.78 --> 4183.76] and they've got their bullhorn -[4183.76 --> 4184.20] and they're like, -[4184.44 --> 4185.68] repent or die -[4185.68 --> 4186.46] and they're just saying -[4186.46 --> 4187.34] it to crowds of people. -[4188.40 --> 4189.56] People use hell -[4189.56 --> 4191.72] as a missional motivator. -[4193.30 --> 4194.16] I just don't think -[4194.16 --> 4194.76] that's helpful -[4194.76 --> 4195.66] or effective -[4195.66 --> 4196.88] but people do do it. -[4197.32 --> 4197.58] Do do. -[4199.18 --> 4200.62] The problem with that -[4200.62 --> 4203.44] beyond the lack of tact -[4203.44 --> 4204.92] because let's face it, -[4204.94 --> 4205.78] that's pretty tactless -[4205.78 --> 4208.26] is that using hell -[4208.26 --> 4209.44] as a sin repellent -[4209.44 --> 4210.36] or vice versa, -[4210.48 --> 4211.32] using heaven -[4211.32 --> 4212.22] as sort of a carrot -[4212.22 --> 4213.82] to dangle in front of people -[4213.82 --> 4214.92] to get them to repent, -[4215.62 --> 4216.78] you're already guilty -[4216.78 --> 4218.36] of becoming a morality gospel. -[4218.80 --> 4219.66] And what I mean by that -[4219.66 --> 4220.54] is by using heaven -[4220.54 --> 4221.34] or hell -[4221.34 --> 4222.10] as a means -[4222.10 --> 4223.52] to convert to unbelievers -[4223.52 --> 4224.24] becomes about -[4224.24 --> 4225.88] what they must do -[4225.88 --> 4228.16] to gain some salvation -[4228.16 --> 4229.56] or to lose -[4229.56 --> 4231.42] out in eternity. -[4231.42 --> 4234.24] but this is not -[4234.24 --> 4235.62] about what we must do, -[4235.74 --> 4236.96] it's about a God -[4236.96 --> 4237.42] who did. -[4239.90 --> 4241.00] We need to be talking -[4241.00 --> 4242.10] about what God did -[4242.10 --> 4242.74] to save us. -[4242.86 --> 4243.60] It's personal, -[4243.74 --> 4244.58] not locational. -[4244.96 --> 4245.96] We aren't moral -[4245.96 --> 4246.64] because we're trying -[4246.64 --> 4247.38] to be good enough -[4247.38 --> 4248.18] to get into heaven -[4248.18 --> 4248.80] and avoid hell. -[4248.86 --> 4250.10] No, that's actually selfish. -[4250.38 --> 4251.76] That's selfishly motivated. -[4252.14 --> 4252.78] Your salvation -[4252.78 --> 4253.74] is not determined -[4253.74 --> 4254.58] by your actions, -[4254.78 --> 4255.48] it's determined -[4255.48 --> 4256.18] by Jesus. -[4258.18 --> 4259.04] Your salvation -[4259.04 --> 4259.90] has been granted -[4259.90 --> 4260.74] to you by Christ, -[4260.82 --> 4261.18] you just, -[4261.42 --> 4262.72] you need to accept it. -[4264.00 --> 4264.86] So our mission -[4264.86 --> 4265.38] as a church -[4265.38 --> 4266.58] is not to scare people -[4266.58 --> 4267.92] into living moral lives -[4267.92 --> 4269.08] because morality -[4269.08 --> 4270.38] is not the determiner -[4270.38 --> 4271.08] of your outcome. -[4271.46 --> 4272.46] Jesus is. -[4273.88 --> 4275.66] Morality is the response -[4275.66 --> 4277.04] of a faith in Christ, -[4277.32 --> 4278.56] a faith which saves, -[4278.64 --> 4279.54] a faith which works. -[4279.60 --> 4280.20] Remember James? -[4281.42 --> 4282.10] Our mission -[4282.10 --> 4283.20] is not to tell people -[4283.20 --> 4284.20] about heaven and hell, -[4285.06 --> 4285.96] it's to tell people -[4285.96 --> 4287.20] of the one who saves. -[4287.46 --> 4287.86] Our mission -[4287.86 --> 4289.14] is to tell the stories -[4289.14 --> 4290.22] of his saving grace -[4290.22 --> 4291.32] in our lives, -[4291.42 --> 4292.16] of the hope, -[4292.38 --> 4292.94] the salvation, -[4293.10 --> 4293.42] the love, -[4293.50 --> 4294.58] the joy that we find -[4294.58 --> 4295.44] in him. -[4297.18 --> 4298.40] We don't need heaven -[4298.40 --> 4298.92] or hell -[4298.92 --> 4300.66] as real as they are -[4300.66 --> 4301.84] as gimmicks -[4301.84 --> 4303.00] to share this news. -[4303.46 --> 4304.60] We just need -[4304.60 --> 4306.14] the gospel of Christ -[4306.14 --> 4308.72] and the Holy Spirit. -[4310.68 --> 4311.64] Fear of hell -[4311.64 --> 4312.84] just brings on anxiety -[4312.84 --> 4313.74] and the promise of heaven -[4313.74 --> 4315.22] might change a decision -[4315.22 --> 4315.92] or two, sure, -[4315.92 --> 4317.60] but the Holy Spirit -[4317.60 --> 4318.94] changes lives. -[4319.40 --> 4320.48] Jesus' gospel -[4320.48 --> 4322.22] changes lives. -[4324.84 --> 4326.38] Once Christ's gospel -[4326.38 --> 4327.24] message of grace -[4327.24 --> 4327.94] is understood -[4327.94 --> 4328.62] and accepted, -[4329.00 --> 4330.84] then faith abounds. -[4331.60 --> 4332.98] And once faith abounds, -[4333.46 --> 4334.22] then eternity -[4334.22 --> 4337.24] with the triune God -[4337.24 --> 4338.52] in eternal heaven -[4338.52 --> 4340.44] becomes certain. -[4340.44 --> 4342.56] And once heaven -[4342.56 --> 4343.44] becomes certain, -[4343.86 --> 4344.64] for those who believe, -[4344.70 --> 4345.48] hell doesn't even need -[4345.48 --> 4346.36] a whisper of thought. -[4348.52 --> 4349.66] We don't need -[4349.66 --> 4350.58] to think about heaven -[4350.58 --> 4351.32] or hell that often -[4351.32 --> 4352.82] because once we start -[4352.82 --> 4354.02] using heaven and hell -[4354.02 --> 4354.90] as a motivator -[4354.90 --> 4355.74] for good behavior -[4355.74 --> 4356.68] or an instrument -[4356.68 --> 4357.40] for mission, -[4357.90 --> 4359.42] we start missing -[4359.42 --> 4360.46] the gospel truth -[4360.46 --> 4361.32] found in Christ. -[4362.48 --> 4363.66] So Francis Chan, -[4363.74 --> 4364.16] he's right. -[4364.16 --> 4367.40] what happens here -[4367.40 --> 4369.12] affects this. -[4372.64 --> 4374.16] But it's not what we do -[4374.16 --> 4375.26] here that does. -[4376.72 --> 4378.28] It's who we put our faith -[4378.28 --> 4379.44] in here that does. -[4381.52 --> 4382.76] So hell exists -[4382.76 --> 4383.88] and so does heaven. -[4384.70 --> 4385.84] But the truth behind -[4385.84 --> 4387.24] all of that -[4387.24 --> 4388.56] is that Jesus -[4388.56 --> 4390.20] has already saved -[4390.20 --> 4390.66] the world -[4390.66 --> 4391.64] from the clutches of hell. -[4391.64 --> 4394.10] and all who believed -[4394.10 --> 4395.02] are saved. -[4396.20 --> 4397.12] Do we believe that? -[4398.58 --> 4398.98] Amen. -[4399.08 --> 4399.46] Let me pray. -[4403.54 --> 4404.30] Father God, -[4404.80 --> 4405.66] heaven, hell, -[4406.86 --> 4408.62] these things, -[4408.74 --> 4409.46] these constructs -[4409.46 --> 4410.00] are so hard -[4410.00 --> 4410.56] for us to wrap -[4410.56 --> 4411.08] our mind around. -[4411.18 --> 4412.18] You've given us pictures, -[4412.36 --> 4412.44] Lord. -[4412.48 --> 4413.32] You've given us symbols -[4413.32 --> 4414.16] which is wonderful -[4414.16 --> 4415.34] but to understand -[4415.34 --> 4416.38] truly what they are -[4416.38 --> 4417.94] we cannot fully grasp. -[4418.90 --> 4419.26] But Lord, -[4419.30 --> 4419.84] what we do know -[4419.84 --> 4420.66] is we want to be -[4420.66 --> 4421.58] in eternity with you. -[4422.42 --> 4423.56] And more than that, -[4423.64 --> 4423.82] Lord, -[4423.96 --> 4424.96] we know that you have -[4424.96 --> 4425.86] come and saved us. -[4426.40 --> 4427.36] We know that your son -[4427.36 --> 4428.16] has died for us, -[4428.26 --> 4429.40] that our sins are forgiven, -[4429.64 --> 4430.54] that you are gracious -[4430.54 --> 4432.38] and that we belong to you. -[4432.50 --> 4433.32] And because of that, -[4433.38 --> 4433.52] God, -[4433.54 --> 4435.48] we are so eternally grateful. -[4436.58 --> 4438.04] May our faith -[4438.04 --> 4439.38] rest in that truth. -[4440.82 --> 4441.16] And Lord, -[4441.20 --> 4442.98] as we know what that means -[4442.98 --> 4443.64] for eternity, -[4443.82 --> 4444.98] may that not become -[4444.98 --> 4446.40] something that causes us -[4446.40 --> 4448.18] to think that there's things -[4448.18 --> 4449.00] that we can do -[4449.00 --> 4449.68] for this. -[4449.68 --> 4450.98] but may we just simply -[4450.98 --> 4453.16] submit to your will -[4453.16 --> 4453.96] for our lives -[4453.96 --> 4455.04] to love your Lord, -[4455.14 --> 4455.78] to love you -[4455.78 --> 4456.72] with all our hearts, -[4456.96 --> 4457.62] to love our neighbor -[4457.62 --> 4458.42] as ourselves. -[4458.54 --> 4459.68] May selfishness disappear. -[4460.44 --> 4461.08] May we live -[4461.08 --> 4462.22] as you've called us to live -[4462.22 --> 4463.06] and may we live -[4463.06 --> 4463.94] knowing the promises -[4463.94 --> 4465.12] that you have given for us -[4465.12 --> 4466.24] are true in our lives -[4466.24 --> 4467.48] and that you reign -[4467.48 --> 4468.52] over us -[4468.52 --> 4469.58] for all of eternity. -[4470.14 --> 4470.74] Thank you, Lord. -[4470.78 --> 4471.52] We pray in your name. -[4471.74 --> 4471.94] Amen. -[4471.94 --> 4472.04] Amen. -[4472.46 --> 4472.94] Amen. -[4472.94 --> 4473.94] Amen. -[4473.94 --> 4474.94] Amen. -[4474.94 --> 4476.18] Amen. -[4476.18 --> 4478.30] Amen. -[4478.30 --> 4478.64] Amen. -[4478.64 --> 4478.94] Amen. -[4479.24 --> 4479.72] Amen. -[4484.16 --> 4486.68] Amen. -[4487.96 --> 4488.62] Amen. -[4488.62 --> 4492.00] Amen. -[4494.80 --> 4495.22] Amen. -[4495.62 --> 4495.78] Amen. -[4496.14 --> 4496.16] Amen. -[4496.16 --> 4496.62] Amen. -[4496.66 --> 4497.14] Amen. -[4497.14 --> 4497.94] Amen. -[4497.94 --> 4498.18] Amen. -[4498.18 --> 4498.32] Amen. -[4498.32 --> 4498.70] Amen. -[4498.74 --> 4498.92] Amen. -[4498.92 --> 4499.30] Amen. -[4499.30 --> 4500.14] Amen. -[4500.14 --> 4500.26] Amen. -[4500.36 --> 4500.70] Amen. -[4500.70 --> 4501.68] Amen. -[4501.68 --> 4502.16] Amen. -[4502.18 --> 4502.42] Amen. -[4502.42 --> 4502.74] Amen. -[4502.74 --> 4502.80] Amen. -[4502.80 --> 4503.26] Amen. -[4503.26 --> 4504.90] Amen. -[4504.90 --> 4506.90] Amen. -[4534.90 --> 4536.90] Amen. -[4564.90 --> 4566.90] Amen. -[4594.90 --> 4596.90] Amen. -[4624.90 --> 4626.90] Amen. -[4654.90 --> 4656.90] Amen. -[4684.90 --> 4686.90] Amen. -[4714.90 --> 4716.90] Amen. -[4744.90 --> 4756.90] See the stone is rolled away, behold the empty tomb. -[4756.90 --> 4769.90] Hallelujah, God be praised, is risen from the grave. -[4769.90 --> 4775.90] Hold and rocked in cross my salvation. -[4775.90 --> 4781.90] Pray an old war out of the need. -[4781.90 --> 4788.90] Now my soul cries out, Hallelujah. -[4788.90 --> 4794.90] Praise and honor unto Thee. -[4794.90 --> 4802.90] Praise and honor unto Thee. -[4802.90 --> 4804.90] Amen. -[4804.90 --> 4805.90] Amen. -[4805.90 --> 4806.90] Amen. -[4806.90 --> 4807.90] Amen. -[4807.90 --> 4812.90] And so go forth from this place today into your weeks, into the rest of your summer, into the start of school, -[4812.90 --> 4816.90] just knowing that Christ's death and resurrection covers you. -[4816.90 --> 4818.90] That you are free. -[4818.90 --> 4821.90] That the rugged cross gives you your salvation. -[4821.90 --> 4829.90] And that while heaven and hell are real, we can rely on the truth that we are saved in him. -[4829.90 --> 4833.90] Now please receive God's parting blessing on your lives. -[4833.90 --> 4835.90] Reading here from Numbers 6. -[4835.90 --> 4837.90] A priestly blessing. -[4837.90 --> 4840.90] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[4840.90 --> 4844.90] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[4844.90 --> 4849.90] The Lord turn his face toward you and grant you his peace. -[4849.90 --> 4852.90] And all of God's people say, Amen. -[4852.90 --> 4870.90] The Lord... -[4870.90 --> 4880.90] those are the days of enlightenment Declaring the word of the Lord. -[4880.90 --> 4888.96] And these are the days of your servant Moses, righteousness being restored. -[4890.36 --> 4898.72] And though these are days of great trials, of heaven and darkness and storm, -[4899.16 --> 4906.42] still hear the voice in the desert crying, preparing the way of life. -[4906.42 --> 4913.02] Behold the cloud, riding on the clouds, shining like the sun. -[4913.56 --> 4919.64] Have a trumpet call, lift your voice, hear of new leaders, -[4920.16 --> 4924.12] run as I am still salvation, God. -[4925.44 --> 4932.88] These are the days of Ezekiel, the dry bones becoming as flesh. -[4932.88 --> 4941.44] And these are the days of your servant David, building a temple of praise. -[4942.18 --> 4950.74] And these are the days of the harvest, the field are as one in your world. -[4951.10 --> 4958.30] And we are the laborers in your vineyard, the caring word of God. -[4958.30 --> 4964.90] Behold me, He comes, riding on the clouds, shining like the sun. -[4965.44 --> 4971.44] Have a trumpet call, lift your voice, hear of new leaders, -[4971.92 --> 4975.68] that out of my eyes and of salvation, God. -[4975.68 --> 4991.34] There's no God like Jehovah. -[4991.34 --> 4992.24] There's no God like Jehovah. -[4992.82 --> 4999.04] Behold me, God, riding on the clouds, shining like the sun. -[4999.04 --> 5005.18] Have a trumpet call, lift your voice, hear of new leaders, -[5005.18 --> 5010.22] that out of my eyes and of salvation, God. -[5010.22 --> 5016.36] Behold me, God, riding on the clouds, shining like the sun. -[5016.36 --> 5022.36] Have a trumpet call, lift your voice, hear of new leaders, -[5022.36 --> 5027.28] that out of my eyes and of salvation, God. -[5027.28 --> 5031.78] How does I am still salvation, God? -[5031.78 --> 5050.16] I was buried beneath my shame. -[5052.92 --> 5059.00] Who could carry that kind of weight? -[5059.00 --> 5063.14] It was my time. -[5063.14 --> 5067.74] Till I made you. -[5067.74 --> 5076.48] I was breathing the night alive. -[5078.48 --> 5085.42] All my failures I tried to hide. -[5085.42 --> 5089.56] It was my time. -[5089.56 --> 5090.16] Yeah. -[5090.16 --> 5094.16] Till I made you. -[5094.16 --> 5099.16] You called my name. -[5099.16 --> 5102.68] And I ran out of that rain. -[5102.68 --> 5107.48] Out of the darkness. -[5107.48 --> 5111.32] To your glorious day. -[5111.32 --> 5138.12] Now your mercy. -[5138.12 --> 5138.30] You're coming. -[5138.30 --> 5138.98] You're coming. -[5138.98 --> 5139.12] Hollaag. -[5139.12 --> 5139.98] Jam. -[5139.98 --> 5140.38] zkowicz. -[5140.66 --> 5140.86] Big Ash。 -[5140.86 --> 5141.18] Big Ash. -[5141.18 --> 5142.18] Big Ash. -[5142.24 --> 5143.72] Please remember all the kolk toazoge. -[5143.72 --> 5144.26] Get that good idea. -[5144.26 --> 5144.96] fathersed demons of history. -[5145.32 --> 5146.26] Have to get those. -[5147.22 --> 5147.96] Hey. -[5147.96 --> 5148.28] Collaborate. -[5148.52 --> 5148.88] Stay. -[5148.88 --> 5149.18] Stay. -[5149.18 --> 5150.16] Especially for the sweet glory. -[5150.18 --> 5151.12] Fillock in the natural process. -[5151.36 --> 5151.42] không운�� sixthAME. -[5151.42 --> 5151.98] OLOGY. -[5151.98 --> 5152.28] Be omdat. -[5152.28 --> 5152.96] To triumph. -[5153.00 --> 5153.48] Jen من Beimonder. -[5153.48 --> 5154.20] ben د! -[5154.20 --> 5155.66] Visiting Ultimately, -[5157.82 --> 5159.48] I go forward to grew-naire butarsi. -[5159.54 --> 5160.50] Not进す. -[5160.86 --> 5162.58] People for the most well. -[5162.62 --> 5163.68] To rent for this. -[5163.68 --> 5164.68] If you'reidi not. -[5164.68 --> 5165.68] Oh my residww- -[5165.72 --> 5166.22] 씨가worms. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 27, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 27, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b222bd264d201fa9630d0b6f71a56577a0b8d80a..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 27, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,111 +0,0 @@ -• No specific topics are discussed in the provided transcript as it appears to be a list of time stamps without any actual content or discussion. -• The presence of continuous timestamps from 0:00 to 472:00 suggests that the file may contain audio or video content, but without further information, no meaningful summary can be provided. -• Upcoming weekend youth event at the church -• Volunteer opportunities available for various roles -• Overnight security and parking attendance needed on Friday afternoon -• Hosts required to direct people in the building -• Help still needed with meals, set up, tear down, and clean up -• Young adults invited to go on a hike after church that morning -• Upcoming event: Beat the Topes (church softball team vs. other church teams) next Sunday -• Pastor Chris is introduced to greet the congregation -• Rachel is announced as the volunteer coordinator for Reactivate -• It's Profession of Faith Sunday, with two young people participating in the ceremony -• The congregation is invited to share the peace of Christ with one another during worship -• A call to worship is read from Psalm 100 -• A series of Bible verses are sung, praising God and asking for his presence and power -• Pastor Luke White shares a personal reflection on hope and being alone, but finding comfort in God's presence -• Prayer of confession -• Worship songs -• Praise to God's mercy and compassion -• Reflection on Jesus Christ as King -• Description of the beauty of God's name, "Jesus" -• Discussion of sin and grace -• Reference to salvation through Jesus' resurrection -• The name of Jesus Christ is powerful and worthy of worship -• Invitation for Levi and Sean to share their faith stories and professions of faith -• Tradition of the church's "Faith Heroes" series -• Sharing personal testimonies can buoy one's faith during difficult times -• Announcement of a job opening for media assistant at the church -• The speaker's faith journey and struggles with doubt -• The importance of acting like you have faith, even if you don't fully understand it -• The core of Christianity is the belief in God as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit -• Quotes from Matthew 16:24 and 2 Corinthians 5:20-21 about being a disciple and an ambassador for Christ -• Levi's experience growing up in the church and his journey to professing his faith -• Encouragement to continue being an ambassador for Christ as Levi moves forward -• Christ's lordship over all aspects of life -• Making faith a personal choice rather than forcing it -• Embracing growth and maturity, especially during young adulthood -• Profession of faith by Sean -• Testimonies from Kevin and Haley about their Christian upbringing and experiences -• Importance of living out one's faith in daily life -• Profession of faith by Sean and Levi -• God's faithfulness to his promise at their baptism -• Church community surrounding them with prayer and support -• Invitation for Sean and Levi to make a public declaration of faith -• Four questions asked to confirm their commitment to Christianity: - • Do you believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God? - • Do you trust and love Him as the one who saves you from sin? - • Are you embracing Him with repentance and joy? -• Baptism and union with Christ -• Promise to follow Christ and strengthen love and commitment -• Full communion and participation in the life of the church -• Responsibility, joys, and sufferings of being part of the church -• Inviting Levi and Sean to make a promise to God's people -• Certificate presentation for Sean and Levi -• Invitation to Pastor Kevin to lead a prayer -• Explanation of what the prayer will look like -• Invitation to friends, family, council members, youth leaders, and others to lay hands on Sean and Levi -• Prayer over Sean and Levi as they head off to school -• Thanking God for the promises they have made and their faith in front of everyone -• Asking God to continue being a faithful presence in their lives -• Prayer for a specific organization -• Introduction to the offering and its purpose -• Description of the Deaconal Ministries of Canada (DMC) -• Praise for the DMC's work in equipping deacons across Canada -• Request for blessings on the gifts being given to the DMC -• A prayer meeting begins with a blessing -• The church leader, John, leads the congregational prayer -• Praises and thanks are given to God for blessings received -• Requests are made for specific individuals and families facing challenges -• Prayers are offered for those dealing with suffering, pain, and difficulties -• Blessings are asked for new members and babies in the congregation -• Comfort and peace are requested for those affected by natural disasters -• Mention of individuals who are struggling and a request to pray for them -• Prayer for outreach programs in the community, including food banks and Trinity Western University -• Request for blessings on Pastor Chris and others as they work with students at Trinity Western University -• Bible trivia question about two people who have never died (answer: Enoch and Elijah) -• Preaching about Enoch from Hebrews 11 -• Explanation of how Enoch's life is described in the Bible, focusing on his faithfulness to God -• Discussion of what it means to "walk faithfully with God" -• The Book of Enoch's mysteriousness and lack of historical information -• Classification of the Book of Enoch as Apocrypha or Pseudopigrapha -• Christian denominations' views on the book's importance and authority -• The writings attributed to Enoch are not considered inspired scripture, except for one passage quoted by Jude in the Bible -• Description of the events in Genesis 6 and the Nephilim in the Book of Enoch -• Contrasting the biblical account with scientific worldview and historical knowledge -• The word "Nephilim" in Genesis can be translated as either fallen ones or giants, but the emphasis is on men of renown. -• In ancient times, the term "sons of God" referred to kings and rulers. -• The story of Genesis 6-7 may be talking about evil kings having children who became historically renowned heroes, but were sinful and evil. -• Jude's book quotes Enoch's apocryphal prophecy about a future judgment where God will judge those Nephilim and fallen angels for their ungodliness. -• The ungodly are described as people who live by their own desires, use violence, abuse power, and do not seek to live in community with others. -• Faith is the key to pleasing God and leads to eternal life, but it must be a faith that leads to repentance and obedience. -• A true faith is one that shows itself through good actions, love for others and God, and a changed behavior. -• Faith is a gift from God and not something achieved through works -• The Holy Spirit regenerates our hearts and minds by grace alone to enable faith -• Faith allows for justification, sanctification, and glorification -• Enoch's story demonstrates faith in God's promise of a future Redeemer who would defeat Satan -• Enoch had direct access to the source of sin through his ancestor Adam and knew about the fall and curses on the serpent -• Enoch's faith was in the promised curse on the serpent, which was fulfilled at the cross -• The cross is seen as the event where the promised son of Eve crushed the head of Satan -• Enoch's reward for walking faithfully with God was being taken by Him without experiencing death -• The speaker explains that the genealogy in Genesis is not just a list of names, but rather a way to illustrate the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God. -• Enoch's story serves as an example of someone who lived faithfully with God, leading to eternal life despite being taken by God before his time. -• The speaker highlights their grandmother Trudy Bauman as a living embodiment of this kind of faith, citing her devotion, prayer, and dedication to family and friends. -• Micah 6:8 is referenced as a key verse that summarizes the kind of faith that pleases God: acting justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God. -• The speaker prays for the congregation to walk faithfully with God and expresses gratitude for their gift of faith. -• Blessing and protection from the Lord -• A place of glory and no pain or suffering -• Eternal life and living forever -• Seeing God face-to-face and dancing together -• Repeating phrases about "because of you" and "we'll see you next time" -• Goodbyes and thanks \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 27, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 27, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 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. -[486.00 --> 488.00] . -[488.00 --> 492.00] . -[492.00 --> 496.00] . -[496.00 --> 498.00] . -[498.00 --> 500.00] . -[500.00 --> 502.00] . -[502.00 --> 504.00] . -[504.00 --> 506.00] . -[506.00 --> 508.00] . -[508.00 --> 510.00] . -[510.00 --> 512.00] . -[512.00 --> 514.00] . -[514.00 --> 516.00] . -[516.00 --> 520.00] . -[520.00 --> 524.00] . -[524.00 --> 526.00] . -[526.00 --> 528.00] . -[528.00 --> 530.00] . -[530.00 --> 532.00] . -[532.00 --> 534.00] . -[534.00 --> 536.00] . -[536.00 --> 538.00] . -[538.00 --> 540.00] . -[540.00 --> 542.00] . -[542.00 --> 544.00] . -[544.00 --> 548.00] . -[548.00 --> 552.00] . -[552.00 --> 554.00] . -[554.00 --> 556.00] . -[556.00 --> 558.00] . -[558.00 --> 560.00] . -[560.00 --> 562.00] . -[562.00 --> 564.00] . -[564.00 --> 566.00] . -[566.00 --> 568.00] . -[568.00 --> 570.00] . -[570.00 --> 572.00] . -[572.00 --> 576.00] . -[576.00 --> 580.00] . -[580.00 --> 582.00] . -[582.00 --> 584.00] . -[584.00 --> 586.00] . -[586.00 --> 588.00] . -[588.00 --> 590.00] . -[590.00 --> 592.00] . -[592.00 --> 594.00] . -[594.00 --> 596.00] . -[596.00 --> 598.00] . -[598.00 --> 600.00] . -[600.00 --> 604.00] . -[604.00 --> 608.00] . -[608.00 --> 610.00] . -[610.00 --> 612.00] . -[612.00 --> 614.00] . -[614.00 --> 616.00] . -[616.00 --> 618.00] . -[618.00 --> 620.00] . -[620.00 --> 622.00] . -[622.00 --> 624.00] . -[624.00 --> 626.00] . -[626.00 --> 628.00] . -[628.00 --> 632.00] . -[632.00 --> 646.00] . -[646.00 --> 647.00] . -[647.00 --> 648.00] . -[648.00 --> 649.00] . -[649.00 --> 650.00] . -[650.00 --> 651.00] . -[651.00 --> 652.00] . -[652.00 --> 654.00] . -[654.00 --> 655.00] . -[655.00 --> 656.00] . -[656.00 --> 661.32] Weekend is fast approaching, two weeks away. This church will be flooded with youth that weekend -[661.32 --> 666.48] from all over BC, and we're really excited. We are upwards of 200 people signed up already with -[666.48 --> 672.18] one week to go, so we're looking forward to that. And in my pleas for volunteers, -[672.80 --> 676.58] this church has come through already in droves, so thank you so much for signing up. -[677.04 --> 681.34] We have lots of spots filled in already, which is wonderful. However, there are still -[681.34 --> 685.78] a number of positions that need filled. There's still lots of volunteer opportunities available. -[686.26 --> 691.34] Especially in the areas of overnight security. So if you want to hang out all night and just walk -[691.34 --> 697.46] around the church property and just make sure kids aren't like fleeing, this is a job for you. -[697.60 --> 701.74] So overnight security, we're looking for some help. Parking attendance on the Friday afternoon, -[702.00 --> 706.82] 4.30, when they all start showing up, we could use some help there. And we're looking for some hosts -[706.82 --> 711.76] as well to sort of be present in the building, in the foyer, directing people where they need to go, -[711.76 --> 716.30] showing them where the bathroom is and where to get to and from. So if you're willing to help out in -[716.30 --> 721.68] those areas, that'd be great. We also still have lots of room helping out in meals and set up and -[721.68 --> 726.16] tear down and clean up. So those are all opportunities still available. If you are willing to help out -[726.16 --> 730.98] and have some more time, please check out that list. It's in the bulletin, or you can talk to me and I -[730.98 --> 735.84] can get you that link. So we are very excited for that weekend. I am looking forward to that for sure. -[735.84 --> 741.48] Young adults, you're going for a hike after church this morning. If you're interested in joining that -[741.48 --> 746.36] hike, talk to Josh. He's in the back. Wave, Josh. There he is. You're going to carpool from here. So go -[746.36 --> 750.82] chat with him and he'll give you some more information about that. And finally, next week, Sunday, -[751.28 --> 756.86] we are doing an event called Beat the Topes. So our church softball team, the Isotopes, challenge -[756.86 --> 761.64] everybody else in this church to a game of softball. We're going to go meet at Topham Park right after -[761.64 --> 765.82] church. We'll do a bit of a potluck lunch, so bring some food to share. There's a playground -[765.82 --> 772.02] there for kids to play at. If you're 16 and older and want to take on the Isotopes, please do come -[772.02 --> 776.96] on out for that. It should be a good time. I've heard tell that the Isotopes will be playing a -[776.96 --> 781.90] team named called the Nope-Topes. So if you want to play for the Nope-Topes, they are looking for more -[781.90 --> 787.08] members for that. So that is happening next week, Sunday, after church. I'm now going to invite -[787.08 --> 791.02] Pastor Chris up to the front, and he is going to greet us as well this morning. -[791.02 --> 802.82] Good morning. I was instructed by my beautiful bride that Kevin forgot to say that she is the -[802.82 --> 809.04] volunteer coordinator for Reactivate. And so if you have, you can talk to her and get on that list -[809.04 --> 813.60] to serve as well. So Rachel, wave your hand. Yeah, she's the beautiful one in the corner over there. -[813.60 --> 820.78] Talk to her and she'll get you situated there. Today is also Profession of Faith Sunday. And so -[820.78 --> 825.78] we've got two young people doing Profession of Faith. And these kinds of services are some of my -[825.78 --> 830.68] favorite throughout the year. And so if you're a guest with us to celebrate Profession of Faith, -[830.78 --> 837.00] we're so excited that you are here. And we hope and pray that we all together can celebrate the grace -[837.00 --> 843.78] of God as we see faith growing and burgeoning in the two young men who will stand before us later. -[844.72 --> 849.66] As you are able, I'm going to invite you to stand. And we can be ushered into the presence of God, -[849.98 --> 856.64] welcomed by him and greeted in his name. Following the greeting of God, I'm going to encourage you to -[856.64 --> 862.70] turn around to those near you or far if you want to go for a little walk and welcome them also into -[862.70 --> 867.68] worship. You can do that in a number of ways. Shake hands, do a little fist pound. You can pass the -[867.68 --> 872.14] peace of Christ, which is very traditional. Say the peace of Christ be with you or the Lord be with you. -[873.00 --> 878.06] Or you can give someone a hug if you're close and friendly. But watch their eyes to make sure that -[878.06 --> 883.62] they're allowing that to happen, like consent matters, okay? Let's worship our God together. -[883.62 --> 893.56] receive his greeting. Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, -[893.68 --> 899.78] his Son and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. -[913.62 --> 941.20] Good morning, everyone. -[941.20 --> 951.08] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm chapter 100. Shout for joy to the Lord, all the -[951.08 --> 958.38] earth. Worship the Lord with gladness. Come before him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. -[958.76 --> 966.42] It is he who made us, and we are his. We are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with -[966.42 --> 973.28] thanksgiving and his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good, -[973.36 --> 978.52] and his love injures forever. His faithfulness continues through all generations. -[978.52 --> 983.54] forgiveness. -[987.40 --> 996.40] For the Lord is good, and he is a homeless. -[996.40 --> 998.54] Ponomous holyclae of the judicial law. -[998.54 --> 1006.06] Father, into your course I will enter -[1006.06 --> 1011.06] Maker of heaven and earth -[1011.06 --> 1018.06] I tremble in your holy presence -[1018.06 --> 1023.90] Glory, glory in your sanctuary -[1023.90 --> 1028.84] Splendor and majesty, Lord -[1028.84 --> 1035.26] Before you, all I adore you -[1035.26 --> 1039.26] All the earth let me glad -[1039.26 --> 1043.90] That your love is everywhere -[1043.90 --> 1049.56] The field to get so seasoned -[1049.56 --> 1057.74] Hear the trees, joys of land -[1057.74 --> 1061.96] Praising the moon so we'll find -[1061.96 --> 1066.18] A new song of sin -[1066.18 --> 1074.42] Lord, I will glorify and bless your holy name -[1074.42 --> 1082.46] Jesus, Lord of our life is salvation -[1082.46 --> 1086.52] Into your presence we cry -[1086.52 --> 1089.00] We worship -[1089.00 --> 1094.16] You are precious Savior -[1094.16 --> 1100.10] Fill us, fill us with your holy power -[1100.10 --> 1105.04] Set us to claim your love -[1105.04 --> 1111.14] To nations, all know your glory -[1111.14 --> 1115.06] For the earth will declare -[1115.06 --> 1119.04] That your love is everywhere -[1119.04 --> 1124.28] The field to get so seasoned -[1124.28 --> 1126.42] Seasons and more -[1126.42 --> 1132.42] Will I take you in the choice of pride -[1132.42 --> 1137.46] Praising the moon so we'll find -[1137.46 --> 1141.58] A new song of sin -[1141.58 --> 1147.38] Lord, I will glorify and bless your holy -[1147.38 --> 1151.38] For if I am blessed your holy -[1151.38 --> 1157.38] For if I am blessed your holy name -[1157.38 --> 1159.38] For if I am blessed you are blessed -[1159.38 --> 1161.38] If I am blessed your holy name -[1161.38 --> 1163.38] To nations, all know your holy name -[1163.38 --> 1165.38] For if I am blessed you will find -[1165.38 --> 1167.38] A new song of sin -[1167.38 --> 1168.42] For if I can be blessed you will find -[1168.42 --> 1170.36] For if I am blessed you will find -[1170.36 --> 1172.38] To nations, all know your holy name -[1172.38 --> 1188.20] Dad's pastor Luke White -[1188.20 --> 1192.92] This is what I was thinking -[1192.92 --> 1198.60] Life's a turn 10 to be -[1198.60 --> 1202.60] Time to live -[1202.60 --> 1209.20] Hope is still -[1209.20 --> 1213.04] But I'm tired -[1213.04 --> 1215.60] So you're so young -[1215.60 --> 1218.60] And I'm not alone -[1218.60 --> 1220.60] I'm not alone -[1220.60 --> 1221.60] I'm not alone -[1221.60 --> 1222.60] I'm not alone -[1222.60 --> 1223.60] I'm not alone -[1223.60 --> 1224.60] I'm not alone -[1224.60 --> 1225.60] I'm not alone -[1225.60 --> 1226.60] I'm not alone -[1226.60 --> 1228.60] I'm not alone -[1228.60 --> 1229.60] I'm not alone -[1229.60 --> 1230.60] With your presence -[1230.60 --> 1234.60] I'll watch away -[1234.60 --> 1238.60] Watch away -[1238.60 --> 1242.60] What is I? -[1242.60 --> 1243.60] How is I? -[1243.60 --> 1245.60] How does I? -[1245.60 --> 1247.60] How does I? -[1247.60 --> 1249.60] How does it fit? -[1249.60 --> 1251.60] Jesus -[1251.60 --> 1255.60] How does it fit? -[1255.60 --> 1275.32] Louisiana. -[1275.32 --> 1282.70] Aleph and Padre from the earth -[1282.70 --> 1284.70] J- Dartblims -[1312.70 --> 1321.70] In your presence, all my fears are washed away, washed away. -[1324.04 --> 1330.70] I was born, I was born, I was born. -[1331.32 --> 1338.70] You are the Father, you see us, you are the Lord, you are the Lord, you are the Lord. -[1338.70 --> 1354.70] Hosanna, Hosanna, I'm your one, you are the Lord, you are the Lord, you are the Lord. -[1354.70 --> 1370.70] Hosanna, Hosanna, you are the Lord, you are the Lord, you are the Lord, you are the Lord. -[1370.70 --> 1386.70] Hosanna, Hosanna, I'm your one, you are the Lord, you are the Lord, you are the Lord. -[1386.70 --> 1392.70] Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna. -[1392.70 --> 1393.62] Mays that a seat. -[1399.06 --> 1406.92] Please join us in a prayer of confession this morning with the words taken from the prayer of Daniel in Daniel chapter 9. -[1406.92 --> 1415.66] Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him -[1415.66 --> 1423.42] and keep his commandments, we have sinned and done wrong. We have been wicked and have rebelled. -[1423.72 --> 1431.28] We have turned away from you. Lord, you are righteous, but this day we are covered with -[1431.28 --> 1438.78] shame because we have sinned against you. But you are the Lord, our God. You are merciful and -[1438.78 --> 1445.70] forgiving, even though we have rebelled against you. We have not obeyed you, Lord, our God, or kept -[1445.70 --> 1455.86] the laws you gave us. Please forgive us. We do not make requests of you, God, because we are righteous, -[1455.86 --> 1467.84] but because of your great mercy. Lord, listen. Lord, forgive. Lord, hear and act. For your sake, -[1467.84 --> 1477.72] our God, do not delay, because we, your people, bear your name. Amen. Please stand as we sing together -[1477.72 --> 1482.60] these songs of assurance and forgiveness that we have in our Savior, Jesus Christ. -[1485.86 --> 1514.18] Lord, is gracious and compassionate. So do anger and let you know. Lord, is gracious and compassionate. -[1514.18 --> 1532.18] Lord, is gracious and compassionate. So do anger and let you know. And the Lord is good to all. He has compassion -[1532.18 --> 1552.18] as far as He is. As far as He is, He is from the West, and so far. He has revealed our transgressions from us. -[1552.18 --> 1566.18] As far as He is, He is from the West, and so far. He has revealed our transgressions from us. -[1566.18 --> 1586.18] Praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. -[1586.18 --> 1594.18] Oh, my soul, my soul, praise the Lord. -[1598.18 --> 1610.18] The Lord is gracious and compassionate. So do anger and let you know. -[1610.18 --> 1624.18] The Lord is gracious and compassionate. So do anger and let you know. -[1624.18 --> 1632.18] The Lord is good to all. He has compassion. -[1632.18 --> 1634.18] And now, He has compassion. -[1634.18 --> 1636.18] God, He has compassion. -[1636.18 --> 1638.18] God, He has compassion. -[1638.18 --> 1640.18] And now, He has compassion. -[1640.18 --> 1644.18] The Lord is gracious and compassionate. So do anger and let you know. -[1644.18 --> 1648.18] As far as He is, He is from the West, and so far. -[1648.18 --> 1652.18] He has remembered his blessings from us. -[1652.18 --> 1654.18] If He is from the West, and so far. -[1654.18 --> 1684.16] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, praise the Lord. -[1684.18 --> 1693.94] Praise the Lord, oh my soul, praise the Lord. -[1696.94 --> 1708.58] Praise the Lord, oh my soul, praise the Lord. -[1708.58 --> 1720.76] Praise the Lord, oh my soul. -[1720.76 --> 1725.58] Praise the Lord. -[1725.58 --> 1737.58] Praise the Lord. -[1737.58 --> 1741.76] You were the word at the beginning. -[1741.76 --> 1751.04] One with God the Lord must have. -[1751.04 --> 1757.78] Your hidden glory in creation. -[1759.36 --> 1765.46] Now revealed in you, our Christ. -[1765.46 --> 1769.46] What a beautiful name it is. -[1769.46 --> 1773.20] What a beautiful name it is. -[1773.64 --> 1779.80] The name of Jesus Christ my King. -[1780.80 --> 1784.68] What a beautiful name it is. -[1785.22 --> 1788.20] Nothing compares to this. -[1788.20 --> 1791.68] What a beautiful name it is. -[1791.88 --> 1795.38] The name of Jesus. -[1795.38 --> 1801.38] Jesus Christ my King. -[1801.38 --> 1806.48] You are heaven alone. -[1807.56 --> 1814.38] Jesus you are heaven alone. -[1814.38 --> 1821.38] What a beautiful name it is. -[1821.38 --> 1828.38] The name of Jesus Christ my King. -[1828.38 --> 1831.38] What a beautiful name it is. -[1831.38 --> 1834.38] What a beautiful name it is. -[1834.38 --> 1841.38] The name of Jesus Christ my King. -[1841.38 --> 1846.38] What a beautiful name it is. -[1846.38 --> 1848.38] What a beautiful name it is. -[1848.38 --> 1852.38] What a beautiful name it is. -[1852.38 --> 1858.38] What a beautiful name it is. -[1858.38 --> 1875.82] What a beautiful name it is. -[1875.82 --> 1894.64] When I called you -[1894.64 --> 1897.90] The veil to be for you -[1897.90 --> 1900.62] Your silence suffers -[1900.62 --> 1904.34] Of sin and grace -[1904.34 --> 1907.44] The heavens are rolling -[1907.44 --> 1911.00] The praise of your glory -[1911.00 --> 1917.34] For you are raised to life again -[1917.34 --> 1920.90] You have your right -[1920.90 --> 1924.52] You have your equal -[1924.52 --> 1927.96] I like your heaven -[1927.96 --> 1931.24] The King reign -[1931.24 --> 1934.24] Yours is the King -[1934.24 --> 1937.62] Yours is the King -[1937.62 --> 1940.34] Yours is the King -[1940.34 --> 1940.90] Yours is the King -[1940.90 --> 1943.90] Our love of peace -[1943.90 --> 1947.34] What a powerful name it is -[1947.34 --> 1951.52] What a powerful name it is -[1951.52 --> 1958.18] The name of Jesus Christ my King -[1958.18 --> 1961.62] What a powerful name it is -[1961.62 --> 1964.76] Nothing can stand against -[1964.76 --> 1967.52] What a powerful name it is -[1967.52 --> 1971.18] The name of Jesus -[1972.18 --> 1973.80] You have youribles -[1973.80 --> 1978.18] You have your Wikile -[1978.18 --> 1981.90] Now and forever -[1981.90 --> 1984.18] God you reign -[1984.18 --> 1987.18] Yours is the King -[1987.28 --> 1988.46] Yours is the Pennsylvania -[1988.46 --> 1991.34] Yours is the glory -[1991.34 --> 1998.36] Yours is the name of the Lord raised -[1998.36 --> 2001.70] What a powerful name it is -[2001.70 --> 2005.04] What a powerful name it is -[2005.04 --> 2009.48] The name of Jesus Christ -[2009.48 --> 2015.26] What a powerful name it is -[2015.26 --> 2018.30] You have been blessed and blessed -[2018.30 --> 2021.48] What a powerful name it is -[2021.48 --> 2024.88] The name of Jesus -[2024.88 --> 2028.36] What a wonderful name it is -[2028.36 --> 2031.94] The name of Jesus -[2031.94 --> 2035.70] What a beautiful name it is -[2035.70 --> 2039.56] The name of Jesus -[2039.56 --> 2045.46] You may have a seat. -[2048.30 --> 2057.74] At this time in our worship together -[2057.74 --> 2062.04] We're going to celebrate God's gift of faith -[2062.04 --> 2064.54] In the life of a couple of our people -[2064.54 --> 2066.38] One of them is Levi so I'll put this up here -[2066.38 --> 2070.28] That seems right -[2070.28 --> 2073.84] And part of how we do that in this church -[2073.84 --> 2077.06] Is by inviting these people to come up -[2077.06 --> 2079.86] And to share a little bit of their faith stories -[2079.86 --> 2082.98] To share a little bit about how they see God at work -[2082.98 --> 2087.18] In their lives and through our church family together -[2087.18 --> 2091.48] And then to invite someone who has mentored them -[2091.48 --> 2094.00] Or discipled them or been influential -[2094.00 --> 2097.84] In God rearing faith in their life -[2097.84 --> 2102.32] And so today we're going to hear both from Levi and Sean -[2102.32 --> 2103.50] Who are doing profession of faith -[2103.50 --> 2107.20] And from two people who have spoken God's truth -[2107.20 --> 2109.18] And modeled that for them -[2109.18 --> 2113.76] I love this tradition of our church -[2113.76 --> 2116.28] And it fits really in with the series -[2116.28 --> 2118.26] That we're in the midst of here for the summer -[2118.26 --> 2120.34] Which is Faith Heroes -[2120.34 --> 2125.16] Talking about how sharing how God is at work in our lives -[2125.16 --> 2129.12] Fuels God's work in other people's lives -[2129.12 --> 2131.74] Because we hear that and we see God at work -[2131.74 --> 2134.68] And sometimes when we are in the dark night of our own soul -[2134.68 --> 2136.96] Sometimes when we are walking through the valley -[2136.96 --> 2137.92] Of the shadow of death -[2137.92 --> 2143.56] Sometimes when we are just feeling crushed and beat down -[2143.56 --> 2148.26] It's the stories of other people that buoy our faith -[2148.26 --> 2149.74] That lift us back up -[2149.74 --> 2153.14] And so we're grateful for that chance to share this morning -[2153.14 --> 2157.60] Levi, I'm going to invite you to the front first -[2157.60 --> 2160.50] Levi's going to share a little bit himself -[2160.50 --> 2164.06] And then we'll have Pastor Kevin come up after that -[2164.06 --> 2170.92] Not this -[2170.92 --> 2174.76] We'll just go with it -[2174.76 --> 2178.70] You can take it out too -[2178.70 --> 2180.42] I'll take it out when that works too -[2180.42 --> 2182.64] Before I begin -[2182.64 --> 2183.96] I would just like to bring to your attention -[2183.96 --> 2185.96] That we are now accepting skilled applicants -[2185.96 --> 2187.96] To fill in the position as a media assistant -[2187.96 --> 2188.86] For the back booth -[2188.86 --> 2191.92] Please submit your resumes -[2191.92 --> 2193.98] To my wonderful manager Linda Stam -[2193.98 --> 2195.86] Or myself following the service -[2195.86 --> 2197.90] No past work experience required -[2197.90 --> 2200.66] Benefits include the occasional Tim Horton's gift card -[2200.66 --> 2203.92] Now we'll begin -[2203.92 --> 2205.90] Before I attended -[2205.90 --> 2207.54] The first pastor's class -[2207.54 --> 2209.48] I would have not thought I would be standing here right now -[2209.48 --> 2211.88] I thought I was not quite ready or prepared -[2211.88 --> 2213.90] Because I have too many unanswered questions -[2213.90 --> 2216.86] I will be attending Redeemer University this fall -[2216.86 --> 2218.60] And it initially made sense to me -[2218.60 --> 2220.60] To do my profession of faith -[2220.60 --> 2221.94] After my first year -[2221.94 --> 2224.60] For my foundation and my faith will grow -[2224.60 --> 2226.56] And many of my questions will be sorted out -[2226.56 --> 2229.52] However, one realization I've learned -[2229.52 --> 2230.54] Through pastor's class -[2230.54 --> 2232.20] And a good conversation with Pastor Chris -[2232.20 --> 2234.40] Was no one has all their questions answered -[2234.40 --> 2236.46] And not everyone's foundations are the same -[2236.46 --> 2238.42] While in the midst of the course -[2238.42 --> 2241.12] Multiple questions I have wondered once in my life -[2241.12 --> 2243.48] Seem to all make a reappearance all at once -[2243.48 --> 2245.78] With these questions swirling in my head -[2245.78 --> 2248.18] It caused me to think that I could not profess my faith -[2248.18 --> 2251.08] I'm just not there, I'd convince myself -[2251.08 --> 2253.38] Yet I have reassured that I will have time -[2253.38 --> 2254.42] To find my answers -[2254.42 --> 2257.08] Questions and seeking these answers -[2257.08 --> 2258.98] My relationship with the Lord will prosper -[2258.98 --> 2261.70] In order to process your faith -[2261.70 --> 2263.84] You need to act like you have it all figured out -[2263.84 --> 2267.30] You don't need to act like you have it all figured out -[2267.30 --> 2269.38] Pastor Chris puts it best -[2269.38 --> 2271.74] Every topic ever discussed in Christianity -[2271.74 --> 2273.16] Fits in a layer of a circle -[2273.16 --> 2275.20] But in the center of the circle, the core -[2275.20 --> 2278.22] Is the belief that God is the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit -[2278.22 --> 2280.72] When one comes to fully accept that -[2280.72 --> 2281.36] They are ready -[2281.36 --> 2284.74] In Matthew 16, chapter 16, verse 24 -[2284.74 --> 2285.20] It reads -[2285.20 --> 2286.98] Then Jesus said to his disciples -[2286.98 --> 2288.76] Whoever wants to be my disciple -[2288.76 --> 2290.88] Must deny themselves and carry their cross -[2290.88 --> 2291.70] And follow me -[2291.70 --> 2294.10] Many impactful moments in my faith journey -[2294.10 --> 2295.54] Include youth conferences -[2295.54 --> 2297.16] And events -[2297.16 --> 2299.02] Conversation with leaders in this church -[2299.02 --> 2301.60] My Spring Mexico missions trip last year -[2301.60 --> 2303.80] Kids summer Bible camp at school -[2303.80 --> 2305.62] And a few more unmentioned -[2305.62 --> 2307.24] I'm extremely grateful -[2307.24 --> 2310.74] For the noticed and unnoticed moments -[2310.74 --> 2311.98] That God has worked through me -[2311.98 --> 2313.88] So despite all my questioning -[2313.88 --> 2315.58] I do not doubt that there is a God -[2315.58 --> 2316.44] Who is three in one -[2316.44 --> 2318.62] And I'm glad to be walking alongside him further -[2318.62 --> 2320.36] While carrying my cross -[2320.36 --> 2321.18] Thank you -[2321.18 --> 2333.54] You can come a little closer -[2333.54 --> 2336.38] Levi, it's good to see you up here, man -[2336.38 --> 2338.14] I'm super pumped for today -[2338.14 --> 2339.56] I'm excited for you and Sean -[2339.56 --> 2341.14] And for this day -[2341.14 --> 2342.78] You've been coming to this church all your life -[2342.78 --> 2345.18] And I've known you now for 15 years -[2345.18 --> 2347.10] And especially the last five years -[2347.10 --> 2348.52] As you've been sort of journeying -[2348.52 --> 2349.96] Through this youth ministry together -[2349.96 --> 2352.06] We've done trips to Alberta together -[2352.06 --> 2354.80] You've helped me out at Reactivate over the years -[2354.80 --> 2356.66] And you and Connor are still the only two youth -[2356.66 --> 2358.64] Who have led kangaroo court at youth camp -[2358.64 --> 2359.48] Throughout its history -[2359.48 --> 2361.12] And through all of this time -[2361.12 --> 2362.34] You've been faithful -[2362.34 --> 2363.40] You've been present -[2363.40 --> 2364.66] And you've been there -[2364.66 --> 2367.26] You grew from this awkward grade 8 boy -[2367.26 --> 2368.44] At the beginning of youth -[2368.44 --> 2370.08] And now you're this awkward man -[2370.08 --> 2371.48] Who's graduated from youth -[2371.48 --> 2374.04] And you're off to Redeemer -[2374.04 --> 2376.36] And as life continues on -[2376.36 --> 2378.46] As you move forward from today -[2378.46 --> 2380.04] As you move forward from professing your faith -[2380.04 --> 2381.12] In front of everyone here -[2381.12 --> 2382.82] I want you just to hear this verse -[2382.82 --> 2384.18] From 2 Corinthians 5 -[2384.18 --> 2385.18] Verses 20-21 -[2385.18 --> 2385.64] It says -[2385.64 --> 2388.14] We are therefore Christ's ambassadors -[2388.14 --> 2390.62] As though God were making his appeal through us -[2390.62 --> 2393.64] We implore you on Christ's behalf -[2393.64 --> 2395.56] Be reconciled to God -[2395.56 --> 2398.46] God made him who had no sin to be sin for us -[2398.46 --> 2399.78] So that in him -[2399.78 --> 2402.46] We might become the righteousness of God -[2402.46 --> 2403.56] Now an ambassador of course -[2403.56 --> 2405.68] Is a resident of one country or a kingdom -[2405.68 --> 2407.78] But who lives in a different country -[2407.78 --> 2408.58] In a foreign country -[2408.58 --> 2410.64] And speaks on behalf of the country -[2410.64 --> 2411.80] That he is a member of -[2411.80 --> 2412.74] Or they are a member of -[2412.74 --> 2415.66] So as ambassadors of Christ -[2415.66 --> 2418.60] We get to live out on this earth -[2418.60 --> 2421.02] As though we are already part of God's kingdom -[2421.02 --> 2422.80] And that is what you are professing today -[2422.80 --> 2425.02] And Levi you've been doing this well here -[2425.02 --> 2426.50] You've been doing this in this community -[2426.50 --> 2427.34] In this church -[2427.34 --> 2428.86] Throughout our youth ministry -[2428.86 --> 2429.58] Throughout the community -[2429.58 --> 2431.40] That you've been a part of at LCS as well -[2431.40 --> 2433.64] And I want to encourage you to keep that up -[2433.64 --> 2435.06] As you go forward from this day -[2435.06 --> 2435.90] And into Ontario -[2435.90 --> 2438.92] Don't change from your fun-loving -[2438.92 --> 2440.32] Clearly confident -[2440.32 --> 2441.68] Bougie-seeking -[2441.68 --> 2443.40] Movie-consuming self -[2443.40 --> 2445.78] But more importantly -[2445.78 --> 2447.44] Don't change from your pursuit of Christ -[2447.44 --> 2449.18] From who he is -[2449.18 --> 2451.02] From what he has done for you -[2451.02 --> 2452.34] From how you are called to live -[2452.34 --> 2453.48] And even from all the questions -[2453.48 --> 2454.64] That you still might have -[2454.64 --> 2456.04] Don't flee from those -[2456.04 --> 2456.96] But press into that -[2456.96 --> 2458.08] Knowing who Christ is -[2458.08 --> 2459.54] And what he has done for you -[2459.54 --> 2461.34] Remember what you're professing here today -[2461.34 --> 2462.54] That Christ is Lord -[2462.54 --> 2463.68] Over all things in your life -[2463.68 --> 2464.60] Your social life -[2464.60 --> 2465.50] Your studies -[2465.50 --> 2466.52] Your extracurriculars -[2466.52 --> 2467.70] What you choose to consume -[2467.70 --> 2469.12] Christ is Lord over all of that -[2469.12 --> 2472.48] Be reconciled to him -[2472.48 --> 2473.86] And continue to be his ambassador -[2473.86 --> 2474.88] Wherever God leads you -[2474.88 --> 2475.92] When you come back from Ontario -[2475.92 --> 2477.52] Whether that's at Christmas or summer -[2477.52 --> 2479.50] You better be ready for breakfast with me -[2479.50 --> 2480.10] Yeah? -[2480.58 --> 2480.84] Alright -[2480.84 --> 2481.46] Love you man -[2481.46 --> 2492.50] Thanks guys -[2492.50 --> 2494.04] Levi just have a seat somewhere in the front -[2494.04 --> 2497.52] Next I want to invite Sean -[2497.52 --> 2499.84] Sean where -[2499.84 --> 2500.50] There you are -[2500.50 --> 2501.04] Thank you -[2501.04 --> 2503.04] Sean's going to come up to the front -[2503.04 --> 2504.40] And then after Sean -[2504.40 --> 2505.34] Haley -[2505.34 --> 2506.50] You can just make your way up -[2506.50 --> 2509.58] Thank you -[2524.04 --> 2527.24] There we go -[2527.24 --> 2530.38] My testimony is pretty similar -[2530.38 --> 2531.22] To a lot of people -[2531.22 --> 2533.36] Christian family -[2533.36 --> 2534.08] Church -[2534.08 --> 2534.98] School -[2534.98 --> 2536.04] And now -[2536.04 --> 2537.10] Christian university -[2537.10 --> 2538.52] But -[2538.52 --> 2539.68] I like to -[2539.68 --> 2541.68] Well the one thing I've learned -[2541.68 --> 2542.56] Is that -[2542.56 --> 2544.90] Your faith cannot be forced -[2544.90 --> 2546.74] It's a choice that you make every day -[2546.74 --> 2548.34] Which I think is pretty awesome -[2548.34 --> 2549.88] And -[2549.88 --> 2551.70] It's kind of ironic -[2551.70 --> 2553.44] Because I've had a really -[2553.44 --> 2554.66] Christian life -[2554.66 --> 2555.62] But -[2555.62 --> 2556.70] It seems kind of forced -[2556.70 --> 2557.32] But it's not -[2557.32 --> 2560.00] And I would just like to encourage -[2560.00 --> 2561.60] The younger -[2561.60 --> 2563.04] Members of this church -[2563.04 --> 2564.04] To make your faith your own -[2564.04 --> 2565.36] And to -[2565.36 --> 2568.00] Take initiative in your faith -[2568.00 --> 2569.76] Thank you -[2579.88 --> 2597.40] Hi -[2597.40 --> 2602.22] I'm not as well practiced as Kevin -[2602.22 --> 2603.34] So bear with me -[2603.34 --> 2605.28] I'm Haley -[2605.28 --> 2606.86] I'm Sean's big sister -[2606.86 --> 2608.98] Although lately I've been feeling -[2608.98 --> 2610.22] More like a little one -[2610.22 --> 2612.96] As Sean's sister I've had -[2612.96 --> 2615.08] Thanks Kevin -[2615.08 --> 2618.62] As Sean's sister I've had the joy -[2618.62 --> 2619.88] Of watching Sean grow up -[2619.88 --> 2620.84] And now I'm here -[2620.84 --> 2622.26] At his profession of faith -[2622.26 --> 2623.84] Watching him make the very -[2623.84 --> 2624.90] Grown up decision to -[2624.90 --> 2626.60] Commit himself to loving the Lord -[2626.60 --> 2627.78] For the rest of his life -[2627.78 --> 2628.88] Sean -[2628.88 --> 2631.44] I'm incredibly proud of who you have become -[2631.44 --> 2633.96] Though it really happened in the blink of an eye -[2633.96 --> 2636.94] You've always been the quietest of us kids -[2636.94 --> 2637.98] Thank goodness -[2637.98 --> 2639.30] I don't think mom and dad -[2639.30 --> 2640.50] Could handle another kid -[2640.50 --> 2641.76] That never stops talking -[2641.76 --> 2644.64] But when I am lucky enough -[2644.64 --> 2645.56] To hear your thoughts -[2645.56 --> 2646.74] They are always funny -[2646.74 --> 2647.52] Insightful -[2647.52 --> 2648.30] Or uplifting -[2648.30 --> 2650.26] I pray that as you enter -[2650.26 --> 2651.46] This next phase of life -[2651.46 --> 2653.12] You keep that thoughtfulness -[2653.12 --> 2654.88] And careful way of speaking about you -[2654.88 --> 2657.60] This year you did seem to open up -[2657.60 --> 2659.18] And develop some wonderful friendships -[2659.18 --> 2660.90] With people that encourage your faith -[2660.90 --> 2663.30] You participated in a bible study -[2663.30 --> 2664.40] With your friends at school -[2664.40 --> 2666.12] And decided to attend -[2666.12 --> 2667.70] A Christian university in the fall -[2667.70 --> 2669.26] Even though a lot of your friends -[2669.26 --> 2670.40] Are going other places -[2670.40 --> 2671.92] I have witnessed you -[2671.92 --> 2673.28] Continuously make choices -[2673.28 --> 2674.86] Just as you were talking about -[2674.86 --> 2677.02] That support your relationship with God -[2677.02 --> 2678.08] Both on your own -[2678.08 --> 2679.94] And with the help of others in your life -[2680.18 --> 2682.48] It is clear that your faith is your own -[2682.48 --> 2684.00] And is something that you nurture -[2684.00 --> 2686.92] So before you leave me all alone in BC -[2686.92 --> 2689.42] I want to leave you with an encouragement -[2689.42 --> 2691.90] From Colossians 2 verse 6 to 7 -[2691.90 --> 2693.50] It says -[2693.50 --> 2696.58] So then just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord -[2696.58 --> 2698.44] Continue to live your life in him -[2698.44 --> 2700.08] Rooted and built up in him -[2700.08 --> 2702.18] Strengthened in the faith as you were taught -[2702.18 --> 2704.06] And overflowing with thankfulness -[2704.06 --> 2706.14] Sean I love being your sister -[2706.14 --> 2708.24] And I know what the Lord has in store for you -[2708.24 --> 2708.98] Will be wonderful -[2708.98 --> 2710.72] And I can't wait to watch it happen -[2710.72 --> 2726.72] As mentioned -[2726.72 --> 2728.90] This morning we are celebrating -[2728.90 --> 2730.36] Your profession of faith -[2730.36 --> 2732.66] Profession of faith -[2732.66 --> 2733.72] Marks -[2733.72 --> 2737.20] A step on a journey of God's promise -[2737.20 --> 2738.98] That was spoken to these two -[2738.98 --> 2740.46] At their baptism -[2740.46 --> 2742.62] I want to put a picture on the screen -[2742.62 --> 2748.54] Levi and Sean were baptized together -[2748.54 --> 2750.50] In this church -[2750.50 --> 2753.56] Today they make profession of faith together -[2753.56 --> 2754.88] In this church -[2754.88 --> 2757.30] I want you to see this picture -[2757.30 --> 2759.96] Because I believe it is a testimony of two things -[2759.96 --> 2761.56] First and foremost -[2761.56 --> 2762.94] God's faithfulness -[2762.94 --> 2764.64] At their baptism -[2764.64 --> 2766.92] God made a promise to them -[2766.92 --> 2769.62] And we responded to that promise -[2769.62 --> 2772.64] And we see God continuing -[2772.64 --> 2774.36] To be faithful to his promise -[2774.36 --> 2777.32] As you two now stand here today -[2777.32 --> 2779.08] Additionally -[2779.08 --> 2780.88] The second thing we see -[2780.88 --> 2782.20] Is a church community -[2782.20 --> 2784.00] That has surrounded you -[2784.00 --> 2784.92] And prayed for you -[2784.92 --> 2786.28] We saw evidence of that -[2786.28 --> 2788.12] That's you guys -[2788.12 --> 2789.70] Who back then -[2789.70 --> 2791.72] Promised to pray -[2791.72 --> 2794.20] For these two boys -[2794.20 --> 2796.06] To encourage them -[2796.06 --> 2797.06] And to support them -[2797.06 --> 2799.24] And to love their families -[2799.24 --> 2800.96] And we see the fruit -[2800.96 --> 2802.54] Of that labor in the Lord -[2802.54 --> 2804.64] For we know that our labor in the Lord -[2804.64 --> 2805.52] Is not in vain -[2805.52 --> 2806.26] And today -[2806.26 --> 2807.72] You guys help us -[2807.72 --> 2809.56] See that more clearly -[2809.56 --> 2810.88] And so thank you -[2810.88 --> 2812.14] And congratulations -[2812.14 --> 2814.04] I'm going to invite you up to the front -[2814.04 --> 2816.66] Take a spot here on the stage -[2816.66 --> 2819.56] I'm going to ask you -[2819.56 --> 2821.00] Four questions -[2821.00 --> 2823.82] And then I will ask them all in one shot -[2823.82 --> 2824.90] And then I'll ask you individually -[2824.90 --> 2826.08] What is your answer -[2826.08 --> 2827.32] You can say -[2827.32 --> 2828.20] I do -[2828.20 --> 2829.16] With God's help -[2829.16 --> 2829.84] Or I do -[2829.84 --> 2830.74] God helping me -[2830.74 --> 2832.92] However you choose to answer -[2832.92 --> 2833.78] We'll be fine -[2833.78 --> 2836.24] Kevin's going to pass the microphone to you -[2836.24 --> 2837.12] So that he can say it -[2837.12 --> 2837.80] Into the microphone -[2837.80 --> 2839.10] So that this time -[2839.10 --> 2840.16] You can be heard -[2840.16 --> 2841.60] Did one of you cry at your baptism? -[2843.60 --> 2844.46] Any parents? -[2844.46 --> 2846.00] Not your baby -[2846.00 --> 2846.28] Nope -[2846.28 --> 2849.22] So I did cry? -[2852.68 --> 2854.92] So be louder than you were -[2854.92 --> 2855.72] At your baptism -[2855.72 --> 2856.84] When you say -[2856.84 --> 2857.26] I do -[2857.26 --> 2858.02] With God's help -[2858.02 --> 2860.42] So -[2860.42 --> 2861.06] Questions -[2861.06 --> 2863.10] Do you believe -[2863.10 --> 2864.48] That Jesus Christ -[2864.48 --> 2865.72] Is the Son of God -[2865.72 --> 2867.08] Sent to redeem the world? -[2867.58 --> 2868.18] Do you trust -[2868.18 --> 2868.90] And love -[2868.90 --> 2869.36] Him -[2869.36 --> 2870.16] As the one -[2870.16 --> 2870.96] Who saves you -[2870.96 --> 2871.68] From your sin? -[2872.12 --> 2872.74] And do you -[2872.74 --> 2873.54] With repentance -[2873.54 --> 2874.24] And joy -[2874.24 --> 2875.20] Embrace Him -[2875.20 --> 2876.58] As Lord of your life? -[2877.44 --> 2877.74] Two -[2877.74 --> 2879.10] Do you believe -[2879.10 --> 2879.66] That the Bible -[2879.66 --> 2880.88] Is the word of God -[2880.88 --> 2881.82] Revealing Christ -[2881.82 --> 2882.56] And His redemption -[2882.56 --> 2883.96] And that the confessions -[2883.96 --> 2885.00] Of this church -[2885.00 --> 2886.36] Faithfully reflect -[2886.36 --> 2887.26] This revelation? -[2888.68 --> 2888.88] Three -[2888.88 --> 2890.48] Do you accept -[2890.48 --> 2891.48] The gracious promises -[2891.48 --> 2892.00] Of God -[2892.00 --> 2892.90] Sealed to you -[2892.90 --> 2894.14] In your baptism -[2894.14 --> 2895.22] And do you affirm -[2895.22 --> 2895.94] Your union -[2895.94 --> 2896.68] With Christ -[2896.68 --> 2897.36] And His church -[2897.36 --> 2898.52] Which your baptism -[2898.52 --> 2899.26] Signifies? -[2900.28 --> 2900.84] And then four -[2900.84 --> 2902.24] Do you promise -[2902.24 --> 2903.32] To do all that you can -[2903.32 --> 2903.80] With the help -[2903.80 --> 2904.62] Of the Holy Spirit -[2904.62 --> 2905.32] To strengthen -[2905.32 --> 2905.94] Your love -[2905.94 --> 2906.46] And commitment -[2906.46 --> 2906.98] To Christ -[2906.98 --> 2907.88] By sharing -[2907.88 --> 2908.48] Faithfully -[2908.48 --> 2909.12] In the life -[2909.12 --> 2909.72] Of the church -[2909.72 --> 2910.74] Honoring -[2910.74 --> 2911.28] And submitting -[2911.28 --> 2912.10] To its authority -[2912.10 --> 2912.90] And do you -[2912.90 --> 2913.78] Join with the people -[2913.78 --> 2914.22] Of God -[2914.22 --> 2914.70] In doing -[2914.70 --> 2915.42] The work -[2915.42 --> 2916.04] Of the Lord -[2916.04 --> 2916.96] Everywhere? -[2917.82 --> 2918.04] Levi -[2918.04 --> 2919.18] What is your answer? -[2919.74 --> 2920.08] I do -[2920.08 --> 2920.84] With God's help -[2920.84 --> 2922.62] Sean -[2922.62 --> 2923.66] What is your answer? -[2923.90 --> 2924.24] I do -[2924.24 --> 2925.04] With God's help -[2925.04 --> 2926.14] Amen -[2926.14 --> 2927.54] In the name -[2927.54 --> 2928.14] Of our Lord -[2928.14 --> 2929.10] Jesus Christ -[2929.10 --> 2930.02] I now welcome -[2930.02 --> 2931.26] You to the privileges -[2931.26 --> 2933.18] Of full communion -[2933.18 --> 2934.80] I welcome you -[2934.80 --> 2937.04] To participation -[2937.04 --> 2937.98] In the life -[2937.98 --> 2938.64] Of the church -[2938.64 --> 2939.68] I welcome you -[2939.68 --> 2940.56] To its responsibilities -[2940.56 --> 2942.12] And its joys -[2942.12 --> 2943.70] And its sufferings -[2943.70 --> 2944.94] May the God -[2944.94 --> 2945.48] Of peace -[2945.48 --> 2946.42] Who through the blood -[2946.42 --> 2947.56] Of the eternal covenant -[2947.56 --> 2949.24] Brought back from the dead -[2949.24 --> 2949.96] Our Lord -[2949.96 --> 2950.82] Jesus Christ -[2950.82 --> 2951.86] That great shepherd -[2951.86 --> 2952.52] Of the sheep -[2952.52 --> 2954.30] And may he equip you -[2954.30 --> 2955.50] With everything good -[2955.50 --> 2957.52] For doing his will -[2957.52 --> 2959.44] And may he work in us -[2959.44 --> 2961.02] What is pleasing to him -[2961.02 --> 2962.56] Through Jesus Christ -[2962.56 --> 2964.02] To whom be the glory -[2964.02 --> 2965.64] Forever and ever -[2965.64 --> 2967.14] And all God's people said -[2967.14 --> 2968.46] Amen -[2968.46 --> 2970.46] Congregation -[2970.46 --> 2971.48] As you promised -[2971.48 --> 2972.70] In their baptism -[2972.70 --> 2973.74] You too are going -[2973.74 --> 2974.88] To make a promise now -[2974.88 --> 2975.74] And so I invite you -[2975.74 --> 2976.84] As you are able -[2976.84 --> 2977.72] To stand -[2977.72 --> 2978.96] And I will ask you -[2978.96 --> 2979.52] A question -[2979.52 --> 2980.88] And invite you -[2980.88 --> 2981.50] To respond -[2981.50 --> 2982.50] In the same way -[2982.50 --> 2983.32] Saying -[2983.32 --> 2984.58] We do -[2984.58 --> 2985.82] With God's help -[2985.82 --> 2986.48] That is -[2986.48 --> 2987.28] If in fact -[2987.28 --> 2988.74] You do agree -[2988.74 --> 2989.80] And so promise -[2989.80 --> 2992.26] Do you -[2992.26 --> 2993.72] People of God -[2993.72 --> 2994.94] Promise Levi -[2994.94 --> 2995.86] And Sean -[2995.86 --> 2996.58] Your love -[2996.58 --> 2997.66] Encouragement -[2997.66 --> 2998.98] And prayers -[2998.98 --> 3004.14] You may have a seat -[3004.14 --> 3004.60] Thank you -[3004.60 --> 3007.90] I want to invite -[3007.90 --> 3009.22] Steve Kike -[3009.22 --> 3009.54] Who is -[3009.54 --> 3010.42] One of the -[3010.42 --> 3011.32] Admin elders -[3011.32 --> 3012.06] Here in our church -[3012.06 --> 3013.24] He has a gift -[3013.24 --> 3013.64] For you -[3013.64 --> 3014.34] And a certificate -[3014.34 --> 3015.70] To mark this -[3015.70 --> 3016.34] Occasion -[3016.34 --> 3016.98] Together -[3016.98 --> 3033.70] And then I would -[3033.70 --> 3034.20] Like to invite -[3034.20 --> 3034.80] Pastor Kevin -[3034.80 --> 3035.02] Up -[3035.02 --> 3035.82] One more time -[3035.82 --> 3036.26] He is going -[3036.26 --> 3037.28] To lead us -[3037.28 --> 3037.96] In a prayer -[3037.96 --> 3038.70] He will explain -[3038.70 --> 3039.32] What that will -[3039.32 --> 3040.14] Look like -[3040.14 --> 3041.30] Mike is over here -[3041.30 --> 3045.38] Dave look -[3045.38 --> 3045.90] There we are -[3045.90 --> 3046.56] I come in hot -[3046.56 --> 3047.68] We are going to -[3047.68 --> 3048.42] Move down to the front -[3048.42 --> 3049.28] You boys are going -[3049.28 --> 3049.56] To come -[3049.56 --> 3050.10] Sean and Levi -[3050.10 --> 3050.60] Come stand -[3050.60 --> 3050.94] In the middle -[3050.94 --> 3051.48] And I am going -[3051.48 --> 3051.78] To invite -[3051.78 --> 3052.22] Friends -[3052.22 --> 3052.66] Family -[3052.66 --> 3053.50] Council members -[3053.50 --> 3054.74] Youth leaders -[3054.74 --> 3056.48] Anyone who wants -[3056.48 --> 3056.96] To come and lay -[3056.96 --> 3057.72] Hands on these -[3057.72 --> 3058.02] Two -[3058.02 --> 3058.48] We are going to -[3058.48 --> 3059.26] Pray over them -[3059.26 --> 3060.42] As we go -[3060.42 --> 3060.78] From this place -[3060.78 --> 3061.08] So you can -[3061.08 --> 3061.44] Make your way -[3061.44 --> 3062.04] Up right now -[3062.04 --> 3063.00] Don't delay -[3063.00 --> 3063.66] Come today -[3063.66 --> 3065.12] And then -[3065.12 --> 3065.44] You two -[3065.44 --> 3065.76] Come stand -[3065.76 --> 3066.26] Forward a little -[3066.26 --> 3066.48] Bit -[3066.48 --> 3071.42] There you go -[3071.42 --> 3093.20] Wonderful -[3093.20 --> 3094.10] Let's bow our heads -[3094.10 --> 3094.70] As a community -[3094.70 --> 3095.86] Father God -[3095.86 --> 3096.42] God we are so -[3096.42 --> 3097.22] Grateful for this -[3097.22 --> 3097.48] Day -[3097.48 --> 3098.36] We thank you -[3098.36 --> 3098.94] So much for -[3098.94 --> 3099.74] Sean and for -[3099.74 --> 3100.58] Levi and for -[3100.58 --> 3101.14] The promises -[3101.14 --> 3101.68] That they have -[3101.68 --> 3102.60] Made and for -[3102.60 --> 3103.16] The faith that -[3103.16 --> 3104.48] They have professed -[3104.48 --> 3104.92] In front of -[3104.92 --> 3105.74] Everyone here -[3105.74 --> 3107.16] God we thank you -[3107.16 --> 3107.62] For these two -[3107.62 --> 3108.08] Young men -[3108.08 --> 3109.00] For the way -[3109.00 --> 3109.44] You've worked -[3109.44 --> 3110.06] In their hearts -[3110.06 --> 3110.60] For the way -[3110.60 --> 3111.76] You have guided -[3111.76 --> 3113.54] Them for the -[3113.54 --> 3114.22] People you have -[3114.22 --> 3114.76] Put in their -[3114.76 --> 3115.68] Lives from -[3115.68 --> 3117.10] Baptism until -[3117.10 --> 3118.82] Now and God -[3118.82 --> 3119.52] We pray for -[3119.52 --> 3120.16] Them now as -[3120.16 --> 3120.68] They both head -[3120.68 --> 3121.32] Off to school -[3121.32 --> 3122.54] As they continue -[3122.54 --> 3123.14] On with their -[3123.14 --> 3124.72] Life now knowing -[3124.72 --> 3125.44] That you are -[3125.44 --> 3125.84] God -[3125.86 --> 3127.34] Lord may your -[3127.34 --> 3127.94] Spirit fill -[3127.94 --> 3128.52] Their hearts -[3128.52 --> 3129.04] May they be -[3129.04 --> 3129.86] Your ambassadors -[3129.86 --> 3130.76] In the places -[3130.76 --> 3131.38] That you have -[3131.38 --> 3132.16] Drawn them to -[3132.16 --> 3132.86] And may they -[3132.86 --> 3133.38] Continue to -[3133.38 --> 3134.06] Serve you -[3134.06 --> 3135.30] And trust you -[3135.30 --> 3136.40] In all that -[3136.40 --> 3136.80] They do -[3136.80 --> 3138.24] We ask God -[3138.24 --> 3138.76] That you continue -[3138.76 --> 3139.16] To be a -[3139.16 --> 3139.88] Faithful presence -[3139.88 --> 3140.88] In their lives -[3140.88 --> 3142.20] And God -[3142.20 --> 3143.10] Encourage us -[3143.10 --> 3144.02] As this church -[3144.02 --> 3144.56] To continue -[3144.56 --> 3145.26] To pray for -[3145.26 --> 3145.48] Them -[3145.48 --> 3146.38] Love them -[3146.38 --> 3146.94] And encourage -[3146.94 --> 3147.26] Them -[3147.26 --> 3149.50] As they continue -[3149.50 --> 3150.38] On serving you -[3150.38 --> 3150.90] In this world -[3150.90 --> 3152.10] We thank you -[3152.10 --> 3152.38] For them -[3152.38 --> 3152.70] Both -[3152.70 --> 3153.82] Continue to -[3153.82 --> 3154.42] Walk alongside -[3154.42 --> 3154.74] Them -[3154.74 --> 3155.24] And we pray -[3155.24 --> 3155.90] All of this -[3155.90 --> 3156.68] In your -[3156.68 --> 3157.30] Son's precious -[3157.30 --> 3157.86] And holy -[3157.86 --> 3158.18] Name -[3158.18 --> 3159.12] Amen -[3159.12 --> 3171.22] You're doing -[3171.22 --> 3171.60] The offering -[3171.60 --> 3171.88] Enough -[3171.88 --> 3172.34] All right -[3172.34 --> 3181.72] Good morning -[3181.72 --> 3182.42] My name is -[3182.42 --> 3182.76] Mike -[3182.76 --> 3183.52] And I serve -[3183.52 --> 3184.00] As a deacon -[3184.00 --> 3184.38] Here in the -[3184.38 --> 3184.64] Church -[3184.64 --> 3185.90] And we're -[3185.90 --> 3186.06] Going to -[3186.06 --> 3186.42] Take some -[3186.42 --> 3186.78] Time now -[3186.78 --> 3187.16] To give -[3187.16 --> 3187.76] Of our -[3187.76 --> 3188.92] Financial gifts -[3188.92 --> 3189.92] And this -[3189.92 --> 3190.38] Morning's -[3190.38 --> 3190.90] Offering is -[3190.90 --> 3191.42] For the -[3191.42 --> 3192.02] Deaconal -[3192.02 --> 3192.54] Ministries -[3192.54 --> 3193.38] Of Canada -[3193.38 --> 3194.62] And in -[3194.62 --> 3195.26] My personal -[3195.26 --> 3195.60] Opinion -[3195.60 --> 3195.92] I think -[3195.92 --> 3196.46] It's an -[3196.46 --> 3196.94] Organization -[3196.94 --> 3197.80] That punches -[3197.80 --> 3198.22] Well above -[3198.22 --> 3198.60] Its weight -[3198.60 --> 3199.30] And is an -[3199.30 --> 3199.64] Organization -[3199.64 --> 3200.28] That this -[3200.28 --> 3200.82] Church -[3200.82 --> 3201.22] Actually has -[3201.22 --> 3201.52] A lot of -[3201.52 --> 3201.84] Personal -[3201.84 --> 3202.46] Experience -[3202.46 --> 3202.82] With -[3202.82 --> 3203.52] It is -[3203.52 --> 3203.98] An official -[3203.98 --> 3204.70] Agency -[3204.70 --> 3205.08] Partner -[3205.08 --> 3205.52] Of the -[3205.52 --> 3205.94] CRC -[3205.94 --> 3206.44] Church -[3206.44 --> 3207.36] And they -[3207.36 --> 3208.22] Work to -[3208.22 --> 3209.14] Help inspire -[3209.14 --> 3209.76] Empower -[3209.76 --> 3210.34] And encourage -[3210.34 --> 3210.84] And equip -[3210.84 --> 3211.64] Deacons -[3211.64 --> 3212.12] Across -[3212.12 --> 3212.62] Canada -[3212.62 --> 3213.84] In -[3213.84 --> 3214.82] All of -[3214.82 --> 3215.04] Our -[3215.04 --> 3215.60] Churches -[3215.60 --> 3215.96] Work -[3215.96 --> 3216.52] In the -[3216.52 --> 3216.82] Community -[3216.82 --> 3217.72] So they -[3217.72 --> 3217.98] Do a -[3217.98 --> 3218.30] Lot of -[3218.30 --> 3219.20] Training -[3219.20 --> 3219.52] They have -[3219.52 --> 3219.66] A lot -[3219.66 --> 3220.00] Of online -[3220.00 --> 3220.50] Resources -[3220.50 --> 3221.32] They help -[3221.32 --> 3221.76] Equip -[3221.76 --> 3223.04] Normal people -[3223.04 --> 3223.74] Like myself -[3223.74 --> 3224.98] To learn -[3224.98 --> 3225.98] And grow -[3225.98 --> 3226.48] In the role -[3226.48 --> 3226.82] As being -[3226.82 --> 3227.20] A deacon -[3227.20 --> 3228.08] And helping -[3228.08 --> 3228.56] Our churches -[3228.56 --> 3230.18] Find new -[3230.18 --> 3230.62] And awesome -[3230.62 --> 3231.06] And creative -[3231.06 --> 3231.38] Ways -[3231.38 --> 3232.20] Under the -[3232.20 --> 3232.62] Holy Spirit's -[3232.62 --> 3233.00] Guidance -[3233.00 --> 3233.98] To reach -[3233.98 --> 3234.46] Our neighbors -[3234.46 --> 3235.66] So thank -[3235.66 --> 3235.96] You for -[3235.96 --> 3236.22] Giving -[3236.22 --> 3236.88] This morning -[3236.88 --> 3238.62] And yeah -[3238.62 --> 3239.26] Let me just -[3239.26 --> 3239.68] Pray quickly -[3239.68 --> 3240.16] For the -[3240.16 --> 3240.50] Diacono -[3240.50 --> 3240.88] Ministries -[3240.88 --> 3241.38] Of Canada -[3241.38 --> 3243.48] Heavenly Father -[3243.48 --> 3243.84] We thank -[3243.84 --> 3244.08] You for -[3244.08 --> 3244.68] The DMC -[3244.68 --> 3245.10] We thank -[3245.10 --> 3245.40] You for -[3245.40 --> 3245.60] What they -[3245.60 --> 3245.88] Have meant -[3245.88 --> 3246.20] To this -[3246.20 --> 3246.54] Church -[3246.54 --> 3247.26] And we -[3247.26 --> 3247.74] Just pray -[3247.74 --> 3248.08] That you -[3248.08 --> 3248.52] Would honor -[3248.52 --> 3249.38] And bless -[3249.38 --> 3249.70] The gifts -[3249.70 --> 3250.28] We are able -[3250.28 --> 3250.62] To give -[3250.62 --> 3250.94] To them -[3250.94 --> 3251.26] Today -[3251.26 --> 3252.36] In your name -[3252.36 --> 3252.64] Amen -[3252.64 --> 3277.74] Today I choose -[3277.74 --> 3278.52] , Ngul -[3278.52 --> 3281.76] What are you -[3281.76 --> 3297.56] I choose -[3297.56 --> 3306.12] And if today can choose our own you -[3306.12 --> 3315.44] As we invite us, we will serve you -[3315.44 --> 3325.42] As we invite us, we will spend our lives on you today -[3327.56 --> 3348.12] Today I choose to follow you -[3348.12 --> 3356.88] Today I choose to give my yes to you -[3356.88 --> 3364.88] Today I choose to hear your voice and live -[3364.88 --> 3372.88] Today I choose to follow you -[3372.88 --> 3380.88] As for me and my house, we will serve you -[3380.88 --> 3390.88] As for me and my house, we will spend our lives on you -[3390.88 --> 3400.88] As for me and my house, we will spend our lives on you -[3400.88 --> 3408.88] As for me and my house, we will spend our lives on you -[3408.88 --> 3420.38] Wonderful Counselor, everlasting Father -[3420.38 --> 3450.38] -[3450.38 --> 3452.38] Today I choose to follow you -[3452.38 --> 3454.38] Today I choose to follow you -[3454.38 --> 3460.38] Today I choose to give my yes to you -[3460.38 --> 3462.38] Today I choose to hear your voice and live -[3462.38 --> 3472.38] Today I choose to hear your voice and live -[3472.38 --> 3478.38] Today I choose to follow you -[3478.38 --> 3490.38] Today I choose to follow you -[3490.38 --> 3498.38] At this time I would love to have all the kids age 3 through kindergarten-ish -[3498.38 --> 3500.24] Today таким -[3501.48 --> 3502.38] еждуjust др стар qualities and можем -[3502.38 --> 3504.68] Confirm home even as she becoming -[3504.68 --> 3505.42] j ssin -[3505.42 --> 3506.08] Don't change myself -[3506.08 --> 3508.38] Actually I choose to know his life -[3508.38 --> 3509.38] Today I choose myце -[3509.38 --> 3510.38] All it fazer -[3510.38 --> 3511.38] уч� Inside -[3511.38 --> 3522.06] beside me, and we can see everyone. Excellent. Come on right up. Okay, so we're going to say a -[3522.06 --> 3526.46] blessing. So we're going to say, the Lord be with you, and then we're going to ask the church to say, -[3526.64 --> 3532.24] and also with you. So I'm going to invite you, church, stand up, and then we will all say together. -[3532.24 --> 3540.04] Hold your hands up. Ready? The Lord be with you. Excellent. Have fun. -[3541.38 --> 3541.64] Amen. -[3571.38 --> 3575.72] My name is John. I'm one of the elders in the church here, and I'd like to lead you in our -[3575.72 --> 3584.20] congregational prayer. Oh, Lord God, creator of the world, creator of the universe, Lord, we give you -[3584.20 --> 3591.82] the honor and praise and glory that is due your name. You are the one who set this whole world in -[3591.82 --> 3600.04] place, and put us on this world. You put us on this world to serve you, to give you the honor that is -[3600.04 --> 3608.62] due your name. Lord, we come before you as broken people, people who are sinful, who do not deserve -[3608.62 --> 3616.12] to be here. But Lord, you have given us your grace, your peace, that you have given us the opportunity -[3616.12 --> 3624.20] to worship you. You've put that into our hearts. Lord, that we can truly be thankful for the many -[3624.20 --> 3630.74] blessings you have given to us as believers. Lord, we're thankful for the professional faith -[3630.74 --> 3637.64] that we could see from Levi and Sean this morning. Lord, a continued sign of your blessing for the new -[3637.64 --> 3645.50] members in our congregation. Lord, may you bless us as we live our lives each day, that we may be a -[3645.50 --> 3654.42] blessing to those in the community around us. Lord, we have many needs in our congregation. Lord, -[3654.46 --> 3661.44] we have programs that are starting up again in the fall with many positions to be filled. Lord, -[3661.52 --> 3668.82] we ask a blessing on each person whose heart is opened up to be able to serve, or whether that be in -[3668.82 --> 3676.50] in council, in council, leading children's worship time, teaching gems and cadets, coffee break, other -[3676.50 --> 3684.24] ministries. Lord, these are outpourings of our heart for our love for you, and we pray that you may be able -[3684.24 --> 3692.04] to fill those positions, that we may be a blessing to others. Lord, many in our congregation have -[3692.04 --> 3697.82] sufferings and difficulties that are dealing with. Lord, whether they be present members or former, -[3697.82 --> 3703.56] we think of Amy Cron and the fact that she is dealing with cancer. We pray that you may bless her -[3703.56 --> 3709.26] as she is home dealing with new treatment, that that may be effective for healing for her. We pray for -[3709.26 --> 3715.00] John Kuypers, too, and the change of medication that he has had and difficulties dealing with that. -[3715.00 --> 3723.54] Pray for a blessing for him that his pain may be able to reduce. We're thankful that Amy Bongers could -[3723.54 --> 3732.34] have successful eye surgery, that she can see well again. Lord, we're thankful for Warren and Melanie -[3732.34 --> 3738.06] Verhoof, members who have been coming to our church more recently. They were blessed with a baby girl, -[3738.06 --> 3744.40] Georgia, a week ago. We pray a blessing for that family as they welcome that new one into their lives. -[3745.00 --> 3756.18] Lord, our world is continuing to be beset by natural disasters. There's many that we see flooding -[3756.18 --> 3763.16] in areas that receive too much rain and areas like our part of the country where we have not have -[3763.16 --> 3771.18] enough rain and we see lots of fires, loss of homes and properties. Lord, we pray that your peace may be -[3771.18 --> 3784.18] with those who come with those difficulties and have to rebuild their lives. Lord, we pray for comfort for those who have lost loved ones in fires and disasters. -[3784.18 --> 3798.18] Lord, we pray for those families that have either marriage or family difficulties, relationship issues that are not going well. We pray that your peace may work in each one of these persons' lives. -[3798.18 --> 3813.18] names that we will not put up here, but people who know who they are. That we as a congregation may be able to surround these families, these individuals and bless them with support. -[3813.18 --> 3815.18] Lord, we pray for the outreach that we may be able to give to our community. Lord, whether that's in food bank issues, we pray for Pastor Chris and Josh and Kevin as they work with Trinity Western having an outreach program next week for new people coming to the Christian University. -[3815.18 --> 3845.16] there. We may bless the -[3845.16 --> 3847.16] efforts of the efforts of the Christian University. -[3847.16 --> 3863.16] efforts of these three to introduce Christianity to the higher education world. We may be able to reach out to those members as well. We pray for those students who are going to college or some far away. We pray for a blessing for them as they take on this new stage in their lives. -[3863.16 --> 3865.16] Lord, we ask a blessing on Josh as he is preaching for those of us. -[3865.16 --> 3877.16] Lord, we ask a blessing on Josh as he preaches your word this morning. As he is preaching on heroes of faith that we may be blessed with the words that you are speaking through him. -[3877.16 --> 3891.16] Lord, guide and lead us as we go into this new week. You may give us strength and conviction and purpose as we reach out to those in our neighborhood, those who we work with. -[3891.16 --> 3895.16] That we may shine your light on those around us. -[3895.16 --> 3901.16] Lord, we ask this not because we are worthy but in the name of your son Jesus Christ who died on the cross for us. -[3901.16 --> 3905.16] This we ask in your name alone. Amen. -[3905.16 --> 3919.16] Hello. Okay. -[3919.16 --> 3925.16] So, to start, we are going to do a bit of Bible trivia. -[3925.16 --> 3929.16] Because I like Bible trivia but also it is important for the sermon. -[3929.16 --> 3935.16] So, who, there are only two people who have never died. Who are they? -[3935.16 --> 3938.16] Enoch? -[3938.16 --> 3940.16] Elijah? -[3940.16 --> 3943.16] Elijah? There we go. Okay. Those are the correct answers. -[3943.16 --> 3945.16] Awesome. Okay. -[3945.16 --> 3950.16] Over the past few months, we have been preaching on the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11. -[3950.16 --> 3954.16] We have been talking about figures like Moses, Noah, Joseph. -[3954.16 --> 3962.16] And all these people are provided copious amounts of stories that we can read and see their life of faith, what they did, how they lived. -[3962.16 --> 3967.16] And we get to emulate them in how they approached God. -[3967.16 --> 3971.16] However, today, we are preaching on Enoch. -[3971.16 --> 3975.16] And Enoch has a total of nine verses in the whole Bible. -[3975.16 --> 3978.16] And half of them aren't even about his actual life. -[3978.16 --> 3981.16] Only one of them tells us about his faith. -[3981.16 --> 3983.16] And yet, it's included in Hebrews 11. -[3983.16 --> 3987.16] The passage today is Hebrews 11, 5 to 6. -[3987.16 --> 3990.16] And today, we're getting Lyndon Verkike to read the passage. -[3990.16 --> 3992.16] Lyndon, do you want to come up? -[3992.16 --> 3997.16] While he's coming up, get your Bibles open and follow along. -[3997.16 --> 3998.16] Perfect. -[3998.16 --> 4010.16] Hebrews 11, 5 and 6. -[4010.16 --> 4015.16] By faith, Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death. -[4015.16 --> 4018.16] He could not be found because God had taken him away. -[4018.16 --> 4022.16] For before he was commended as one who pleased God. -[4022.16 --> 4025.16] And without faith, it is impossible to please God. -[4025.16 --> 4034.16] Because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. -[4034.16 --> 4035.16] Perfect. -[4035.16 --> 4037.16] Thanks, Lyndon. -[4037.16 --> 4038.16] Okay. -[4038.16 --> 4047.16] As read above by Lyndon, the key of Enoch's avoidance of death was that he walked with God. -[4047.16 --> 4052.16] And to walk with God, you must seek him and believe that he exists. -[4052.16 --> 4058.16] Enoch walked with his God, as the passage says, and was commended as one who pleased him as a result. -[4058.16 --> 4066.16] And this is the point we have to get from Enoch's story that the author of Hebrews is trying to present. -[4066.16 --> 4071.16] Without faith, it is impossible to please God. -[4071.16 --> 4075.16] Without faith, it's impossible to please God. -[4075.16 --> 4078.16] But how does he walk faithfully with God? -[4078.16 --> 4085.16] Well, in his actual story in Genesis 5, 21 to 24, it tells us a little bit of his story. -[4085.16 --> 4086.16] Let me read it. -[4086.16 --> 4091.16] When Enoch had lived 65 years, he became the father of Methuselah. -[4091.16 --> 4099.16] After he became the father of Methuselah, Enoch walked faithfully with God for 300 years and had other sons and daughters. -[4099.16 --> 4102.16] Altogether, Enoch lived 365 years. -[4102.16 --> 4104.16] Enoch walked faithfully with God. -[4104.16 --> 4107.16] Then he was no more because God took him away. -[4107.16 --> 4115.16] So, from this one passage we have about Enoch, all we learn was that he walked faithfully with God. -[4115.16 --> 4120.16] There's no reason that he was particularly faithful, just that he was. -[4120.16 --> 4126.16] There isn't anything about Enoch's life or what he did, just that he was faithful. -[4126.16 --> 4133.16] That this always used to leave me wondering what he did, who he was. -[4133.16 --> 4145.16] But in the writing, in writing this, I realized that of all the people in the Hebrew passage, he has the best descriptor other than Christ, of course. -[4145.16 --> 4152.16] It doesn't list all his achievements or possessions, all the great miracles he performed, or the great speeches he gave. -[4152.16 --> 4154.16] It doesn't tell you how good of a man he was. -[4154.16 --> 4159.16] The only thing it gives us is that he walked faithfully with God. -[4159.16 --> 4162.16] And I think that's the best way to be remembered. -[4162.16 --> 4174.16] You know, when I die, which eventually will happen, I hope that I lived the kind of life that on my tombstone, it says, he walked faithfully with God. -[4174.16 --> 4182.16] However, because of this lack of info we have to work with, Enoch as a historical figure is mysterious and interesting. -[4182.16 --> 4189.16] Now, before we get into much, I want to warn you all, we are going to go all over the place in this sermon. -[4189.16 --> 4192.16] And it's going to seem haphazard and confusing at times. -[4192.16 --> 4196.16] But I promise you, this will all connect and there will be a payoff. -[4196.16 --> 4201.16] We just can't avoid going to the places we will go because of Enoch's mysteriousness. -[4201.16 --> 4203.16] So really blame Enoch, not me. -[4203.16 --> 4205.16] He did this to us. -[4205.16 --> 4211.16] That being said, our first step on this journey is the Book of Enoch. -[4211.16 --> 4219.16] The books of Enoch, like some other texts and ancient writings, look like the Bible. -[4219.16 --> 4222.16] They're written in the same styles, but they're not. -[4222.16 --> 4232.16] They were made to mimic the styles of the writings and attributed to people that lived in the Bible, but way after those people had already died. -[4232.16 --> 4242.16] So most of them were written in between 400 BC and 0 BC, the period between the last writing of the Old Testament and the beginning of Christ's life. -[4242.16 --> 4249.16] But Enoch would have been 4,000 years before all this, and they attribute it to him. -[4249.16 --> 4257.16] And so those writings, those groups of books that look like the Bible are called the Apocrypha and the Pseudopigrapha. -[4257.16 --> 4259.16] First Enoch is in the Apocrypha. -[4259.16 --> 4262.16] Enoch 2 to 5 is in the Pseudopigrapha. -[4262.16 --> 4273.16] Now, some denominations consider them to be important, but no Christian church considers them to be inspired scripture. -[4273.16 --> 4277.16] No church considers them to be fully biblical. -[4277.16 --> 4282.16] Our Belgic Confession, section 6a, says this about the collection of writings. -[4282.16 --> 4288.16] All of which the church may read and take instruction from, so far as they agree with the canonical books. -[4288.16 --> 4300.16] But they are far from having such power and efficacy as that they may, as that we may from their testimony confirm any point of faith or the Christian religion. -[4300.16 --> 4305.16] Much less detract from the authority of the other sacred books. -[4305.16 --> 4307.16] In no way are these writings considered scripture. -[4307.16 --> 4314.16] And in most ways, Christians should not seek them out to help us with our walk with Christ and our discipleship and spiritual formation. -[4314.16 --> 4322.16] But they can be useful in the study of scripture as it helps us understand the life and times of the people we read about in scripture. -[4322.16 --> 4325.16] And if they agree with scripture, it's good. -[4325.16 --> 4330.16] And if they agree with scripture, it's because they were inspired by the portions of scripture already written. -[4330.16 --> 4340.16] So, essentially these books are just fan fiction that helps students of theology and history to see what the people were like at the time and to understand them and the world. -[4340.16 --> 4347.16] Regardless, the writings attributed to Enoch are not considered inspired scripture. -[4347.16 --> 4353.16] Breathed out by the Holy Spirit for the use of exhortation, teaching, or rebuking. -[4353.16 --> 4355.16] Well, at least not most of it. -[4355.16 --> 4359.16] You see, interestingly, Jude quotes part of 1 Enoch. -[4359.16 --> 4364.16] So, meaning that that piece of Enoch that he quotes is now inspired. -[4364.16 --> 4365.16] It's now biblical. -[4365.16 --> 4372.16] And it's the only other passage about Enoch that we get in the Bible that we learn anything about Enoch. -[4372.16 --> 4374.16] And that part never happened. -[4374.16 --> 4377.16] Because it wasn't written by him. -[4377.16 --> 4378.16] It isn't real. -[4378.16 --> 4379.16] It's not historical. -[4379.16 --> 4381.16] But we'll get to Jude later. -[4381.16 --> 4382.16] I need to describe it first. -[4382.16 --> 4392.16] The book of Enoch describes the events of Genesis 6 where the sons of God who come down and have children with women in which give birth to the infamous Nephilim. -[4392.16 --> 4393.16] I think a picture. -[4393.16 --> 4394.16] Ooh, it's a bit dark. -[4394.16 --> 4395.16] Okay. -[4395.16 --> 4396.16] So, that's a picture of David fighting Goliath. -[4396.16 --> 4399.16] Goliath is a descendant of the Nephilim. -[4399.16 --> 4408.16] The Nephilim were angel-human hybrids, 16-foot-tall giants who were great warriors who committed horribly evil actions. -[4408.16 --> 4414.16] The book describes the angels who do this by name, the book of Enoch, and about God's judgment of those angels. -[4414.16 --> 4419.16] Now, before we continue, I just want to acknowledge what everyone's thinking right now. -[4419.16 --> 4421.16] What I just said is weird. -[4421.16 --> 4422.16] Crazy, even. -[4422.16 --> 4425.16] The idea of a human angel child is weird. -[4425.16 --> 4429.16] And every time we read about the Nephilim in Genesis 6, our minds just kind of go blank. -[4429.16 --> 4433.16] And every time we read the Noah story, we don't know what to do with the story. -[4433.16 --> 4441.16] Because when we look at the world around us and our scientific worldview, we see the story about angels having children with humans. -[4441.16 --> 4444.16] And it just, it doesn't match what we see in the world. -[4444.16 --> 4449.16] Everything we know about history and science is telling us something that this simply isn't true. -[4449.16 --> 4454.16] So, let's read Genesis 6, the biblical account of the same story in Enoch. -[4454.16 --> 4456.16] Genesis 6, 1-5 says, -[4456.16 --> 4462.16] When human beings began to increase in number on the earth and daughters were born to them, -[4462.16 --> 4467.16] the sons of God saw that the daughters of humans were beautiful, and they married any of them that they chose. -[4467.16 --> 4469.16] Then the Lord said, -[4469.16 --> 4498.16] Now, this is similar to what happens in the book of Enoch. -[4498.16 --> 4501.16] But we need to look at three things first. -[4501.16 --> 4508.16] The first is that the word for human in the phrase daughters of humans is the word men in Old English. -[4508.16 --> 4515.16] And in Hebrew, the word man or men can be used to describe all humans or just men. -[4515.16 --> 4521.16] The second thing is that the word Nephilim translates as fallen ones or giants. -[4521.16 --> 4526.16] And when used, the word giant can also describe somebody who is great. -[4526.16 --> 4529.16] He's a giant of a man or a giant in his industry. -[4529.16 --> 4541.16] The Nephilim in the passage are described as heroes of old, men of great renown, highlighting the emphasis on men of renown, not giants or human monster angel thing. -[4541.16 --> 4550.16] The third thing is that the term sons of God was used as a term to mean king by all the nations in the Middle East at the time. -[4550.16 --> 4553.16] Most notably, King David was referred to as a son of God. -[4553.16 --> 4568.16] So with all three things in mind, all together, we find that the story in Genesis might just be talking about evil kings of the earth having children that become historically renowned heroes who are sinful and evil. -[4568.16 --> 4572.16] People who have no regard for God and what he wants. -[4572.16 --> 4574.16] People who rule and live by their desires. -[4574.16 --> 4581.16] They don't seek to live in community, but rather to use violence and to abuse the power and responsibility invested in them. -[4581.16 --> 4585.16] To live by what is right in their own eyes and not what is good in God's eyes. -[4585.16 --> 4591.16] And when people live in that way, what's right in their own eyes, we see the kinds of behaviors they live out. -[4591.16 --> 4593.16] They falter people for personal gain. -[4593.16 --> 4595.16] They degrade the people around them. -[4595.16 --> 4600.16] They make them feel small so that they can point out the flaws in others to make themselves feel great. -[4600.16 --> 4617.16] Jude quotes the book of Enoch about this apocryphal prophecy handed to Enoch about a future day of judgment in which all the sin and the defilement that these corrupt angels brought would be judged and their descendants would be destroyed. -[4617.16 --> 4620.16] Jude verse 14 to 16 says this. -[4620.16 --> 4624.16] Enoch, the seventh from Adam prophesied about them. -[4624.16 --> 4633.16] See, the Lord is coming with thousands upon thousands of His holy ones to judge everyone and to convict all of them of the ungodly acts they have committed in their ungodliness. -[4633.16 --> 4641.16] And of all the defiant words ungodly sinners have spoken against Him, these people are grumblers and fault finders. -[4641.16 --> 4646.26] faultfinders. They follow their own evil desires. They boast about themselves and flatter others -[4646.26 --> 4654.16] for their own advantage. Now to wrap everything we've covered, put it all together. In Genesis -[4654.16 --> 4660.86] 5 to 6, Enoch is a person who lived during the time of the Nephilim. In the apocryphal book, -[4661.32 --> 4666.46] First Enoch, Enoch is a bringer of a prophecy about a future judgment where God will judge -[4666.46 --> 4673.94] those Nephilim and fallen angels for their ungodliness. Jude takes that prophecy that isn't -[4673.94 --> 4681.38] real about the Nephilim and links it to the ungodly people in his time and in ours and tells us that -[4681.38 --> 4688.46] that judgment that the one this fake Enoch is telling us about is about Christ at the end of -[4688.46 --> 4696.44] times, the judgment we're waiting for. He was talking about the corruption and the evil people -[4696.44 --> 4702.70] who were amongst him and us. These people do not have the Holy Spirit, people who are in the church -[4702.70 --> 4708.92] community but not justified by Christ, people who are living a superficial Christian life and talking -[4708.92 --> 4716.18] about Jesus, but they do not live a repentant life. They are goats in sheep's clothing. They are -[4716.18 --> 4722.48] ungodly, as Enoch says and Jude quotes. Jude goes on to write more about this in a few verses later. -[4722.48 --> 4727.02] He gives a contrast between the ungodly and the godly. This is what he says, -[4727.94 --> 4733.44] But you, dear friends, you, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy -[4733.44 --> 4738.32] Spirit, keep yourselves in God's love as you wait for the mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ -[4738.32 --> 4745.40] to bring you to eternal life. Jude is telling us that what separates us and the ungodly -[4745.40 --> 4754.50] is Christ. And we pray in the Holy Spirit. We are justified in being sanctified. We still sin. -[4755.30 --> 4760.92] We still find faults in others. We still grumble. We still sin with all the fashions and the varieties -[4760.92 --> 4768.62] of the time. But when we sin, we go to Christ. We pray and we speak to him and know that he, what he desires. -[4768.62 --> 4775.62] And when we do these things, we repent. And when we love him who first loved us, we stay in that love -[4775.62 --> 4783.16] because that's where his mercy is found. But all of this hinges on one thing. Faith. -[4785.70 --> 4792.38] Jude charges the church and us in the face of corruption and sin to seek and dive into faith. -[4793.10 --> 4798.60] Seek God with all your heart. Pray and talk with him. The ungodly do not have God and do not know -[4798.60 --> 4805.60] God. But we have had the undeserving and merciful chance to know him and worship him and love him -[4805.60 --> 4812.66] and be loved by him. But all of this is because of faith. Faith is how we come to know and trust in -[4812.66 --> 4818.84] him. And just like the author of Hebrews said about Enoch, faith is the only way to please God. -[4820.74 --> 4827.54] Jude and the author of Hebrews are both drawing upon Enoch and his story to present to the church this -[4827.54 --> 4834.54] aspect of reality. Faith is the only way to please God. And that faith leads to eternal life. -[4835.54 --> 4840.64] Now, faith here doesn't mean just mentally acknowledging God exists, though that is part -[4840.64 --> 4846.74] of it as said in Hebrews. The faith that pleases God is a faith of repentance, a faith that leads to -[4846.74 --> 4852.68] obedience. A faith spoken of here is a faith where the fruit of good actions and love for others and God -[4852.68 --> 4858.64] are visible. A faith that pleases God is a faith that changes how we behave and look at the world. -[4859.42 --> 4865.04] A faith that leads to eternal life is a faith that works. A faith that causes us to act out of faith -[4865.04 --> 4874.46] that shows us it's what shows to be true faith. But that faith is a gift given to us out of grace. -[4874.46 --> 4881.44] Ephesians 2, 8-9 says, for by grace you have been saved through faith. For this is not your doing, -[4881.68 --> 4887.16] it is a gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. -[4888.92 --> 4895.80] Everything from predestination to final glorification is God's job. That's what he did to bring us to the -[4895.80 --> 4902.28] point of being able to believe. That's what he means by, in Ephesians, that it's not your own doing, -[4902.28 --> 4910.10] that it's a gift. The Holy Spirit regenerated our dead hearts and minds by grace alone, allowing us -[4910.10 --> 4915.58] to be able to believe, allowing us to have faith in the Christ that has saved us. -[4917.42 --> 4924.08] The very same faith is what allows for justification and sanctification and glorification to come about. -[4924.44 --> 4929.76] It's through faith that the aspects of Christ, his righteousness, and his image can take hold on us. -[4929.76 --> 4936.56] But this faith is not something achieved or did. There is no boasting in our faith, as Ephesians says. -[4937.36 --> 4943.92] The faith is a gift, and we use it. By believing, as I said, in Christ's image starts to take hold of you. -[4944.40 --> 4947.22] And if your faith is real, that image starts to act out in us. -[4948.36 --> 4950.92] And we start to image Christ in our lives and in our actions. -[4951.48 --> 4953.96] We start to do the things that Christ did in his life. -[4953.96 --> 4961.36] And these other people, the Hebrews 11 passages, all these heroes of faith, we start to act like them. -[4962.12 --> 4965.40] We start to do works out of faith in Christ. -[4965.94 --> 4969.12] These works don't save us or even make us a better person. -[4970.20 --> 4972.28] Because again, it was a gift. -[4974.42 --> 4975.52] But what about Enoch? -[4975.52 --> 4979.90] Enoch, he was born 4,000 years before Jesus. -[4981.16 --> 4982.82] He was even born before Abraham. -[4983.68 --> 4985.76] Enoch is seventh from Adam. -[4986.20 --> 4988.72] There were only six generations of people before him. -[4990.88 --> 4993.34] Could Enoch have walked faithfully with Jesus? -[4993.68 --> 4996.84] Known him to walk with God faithfully? -[4996.96 --> 4997.78] How could he have done that? -[4997.78 --> 5006.02] Well, Enoch, being so close to the fall of mankind, would have known from his family what God had said to Adam and Eve. -[5007.14 --> 5016.54] Actually, funny enough, if you do the math, Adam, in Genesis 5, if you go to the genealogy in Genesis 5, Genesis 6, from Adam to Noah, -[5017.28 --> 5021.80] you'll read that Adam would have been 622 years old when Enoch was born. -[5022.60 --> 5025.12] And Adam died at the age of 930. -[5025.12 --> 5032.00] Enoch could have had direct access to the source from the one who brought sin into the world. -[5032.96 --> 5037.34] Enoch would have known about the fall and the curses placed on the serpent and Adam and Eve. -[5038.26 --> 5043.22] From one of the people who was there, Enoch would have known what God said to the serpent, -[5043.60 --> 5047.36] the one who introduced all this mess to humanity on that fateful day. -[5048.08 --> 5052.72] Enoch would have known this curse God spoke to the serpent in Genesis 3.15. -[5052.72 --> 5059.48] And I will put enmity between you and the woman, between your offspring and hers. -[5060.00 --> 5063.54] He will crush your head and you will strike his heel. -[5065.30 --> 5073.14] Enoch knew that one day a human appointed by God would kill the serpent that ruined everything. -[5073.14 --> 5082.20] He had faith in God's promise that a human man would kill the serpent and as a result be killed by the serpent. -[5083.40 --> 5090.68] You see, the way the phrase is written, it tells us that this is a singular act, not two different events in succession. -[5091.56 --> 5096.92] The curse is written in such a way that the defeat of the man and the defeat of the serpent are simultaneous. -[5096.92 --> 5101.18] That the thing that kills the man would be the death of the serpent. -[5102.38 --> 5103.64] This is the cross. -[5104.20 --> 5105.80] This is the gospel promise. -[5106.72 --> 5112.54] The cross is the same thing at the same time that killed Jesus was the thing that killed the serpent. -[5113.38 --> 5118.78] That day, 2,000 years ago, the promised son of Eve crushed the head of the serpent. -[5118.78 --> 5121.26] And the serpent bit his heel. -[5121.92 --> 5128.58] That day, 2,000 years ago, the event that Enoch had faith would happen actually happened. -[5129.20 --> 5137.84] And because of his faith in the promised curse on the serpent, he had faith in a man who would please God by defeating the enemy. -[5138.76 --> 5140.98] Enoch had faith in Christ. -[5141.72 --> 5144.42] The only one who could please God through obedience. -[5144.42 --> 5151.28] And because of that faith, that Enoch, he was able to walk in faith with God. -[5151.72 --> 5153.98] And in doing so, obey and please him. -[5154.58 --> 5159.88] And his reward for having faithfully walked with God was that he didn't die. -[5161.12 --> 5162.64] Instead, he got taken by God. -[5163.08 --> 5165.92] He got taken because in Jude 20, 21, we read, -[5166.36 --> 5171.18] Waiting in God's love so that the mercy of Christ may lead us to eternal life. -[5171.18 --> 5180.04] When we jump back to Genesis 5, the passage about Enoch, we're reading a genealogy from Adam to Noah. -[5181.00 --> 5185.80] Genealogies in the Bible, however, are not just to tell us family lineages or how old someone is. -[5186.40 --> 5190.30] The genealogies are teaching us as much as the stories they are paired with. -[5191.18 --> 5196.72] The genealogy in the beginning of Luke is telling us that Jesus is the Son of God. -[5196.72 --> 5203.20] The genealogy in Matthew is telling you that Jesus is of the tribe of Judah and the Son of David. -[5204.08 --> 5209.04] The genealogy after Noah's Ark is telling us about all the children of each family -[5209.04 --> 5211.86] because God's command was to be fruitful and multiply. -[5213.46 --> 5216.06] In Genesis 5, we are following the fall of man, -[5217.00 --> 5220.60] where God promised that everyone would die because they ate the fruit. -[5220.60 --> 5225.64] But not Enoch. -[5226.72 --> 5229.46] And in the genealogy, he is in the very middle. -[5230.08 --> 5231.88] There's six people above him and six people below. -[5233.64 --> 5237.52] And in Hebrew, there's a literary structure called a chiasm. -[5237.96 --> 5241.56] And whatever's in the very middle of the story is the point. -[5243.24 --> 5247.44] The genealogy isn't telling us that Enoch fathered Methuselah. -[5247.44 --> 5255.12] The point of the genealogy is that when you are in a world where everyone dies due to the sins we commit, -[5256.10 --> 5259.66] walking faithfully with God leads to eternal life. -[5260.64 --> 5264.96] The point of the genealogy is that walking faithfully with God leads to eternal life. -[5264.96 --> 5271.72] Now, at the end of each of these sermons, -[5272.28 --> 5277.80] we highlight a person in our life that have been in emblems of the kind of faith we see. -[5279.24 --> 5281.42] And so, Grandma, I apologize, -[5282.26 --> 5285.40] but you're the person in my life that has been an emblem of this kind of faith. -[5286.90 --> 5289.24] For those who don't know, Trudy Bauman is my grandmother. -[5289.52 --> 5290.32] She sits in the back. -[5290.32 --> 5292.48] Your faithfulness is astounding. -[5293.56 --> 5295.36] Your pattern of prayer and devotion, -[5295.68 --> 5298.22] your dedication to family and friends is like nothing I've seen. -[5298.80 --> 5300.12] In the face of great loss, -[5300.18 --> 5302.52] you have been steadfast because of your faith in Jesus Christ. -[5303.24 --> 5305.24] And you've lived by Jesus' words, -[5305.38 --> 5308.28] do not let your right hand know what your left hand is doing. -[5308.72 --> 5312.58] And so, well, I will not get into any specific stories to respect that. -[5312.58 --> 5319.30] But I don't need to because most, if not all, people here have been blessed by you doing works -[5319.30 --> 5322.44] of obedience to Christ out of your faith in Him. -[5324.10 --> 5326.64] And for those who don't know, she works behind the scenes. -[5326.80 --> 5329.30] And so, you don't get to see how she blesses us. -[5329.66 --> 5330.94] But her faithfulness is there. -[5331.42 --> 5333.88] Just like Enoch's, you don't see it, but it's there. -[5335.20 --> 5338.36] And when I see both these people, Enoch and my grandma, -[5338.66 --> 5340.16] I think of Micah 6.8. -[5340.16 --> 5342.26] What does the Lord require of you? -[5342.90 --> 5347.04] To act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. -[5348.14 --> 5354.40] A faith that pleases God acts justly, loves mercy, and walks humbly with God. -[5355.16 --> 5356.00] Enoch did that. -[5356.40 --> 5357.24] We don't know how. -[5357.92 --> 5358.98] We just know that he did. -[5359.80 --> 5360.74] Grandma does that. -[5361.00 --> 5361.94] We don't know how. -[5362.54 --> 5363.42] She just does. -[5364.40 --> 5368.80] You have modeled this same kind of faith for me, our family, and the church. -[5370.16 --> 5375.76] And so, with that church, let's walk faithfully with our God and pray to Him. -[5380.44 --> 5382.66] Dear Lord, thank you for this day. -[5383.46 --> 5385.98] Thank you, Lord, for another chance to walk with you. -[5386.56 --> 5390.48] And thank you for your faithfulness, the faithfulness that matters. -[5390.48 --> 5393.68] Thank you for your gift of faith to us, Lord. -[5395.46 --> 5397.84] I pray that we would be faithful as much as we can. -[5398.92 --> 5400.68] We could use that gift well. -[5401.96 --> 5402.34] Amen. -[5402.34 --> 5402.42] Amen. -[5402.42 --> 5415.76] Please stand as we sing Cornerstone. -[5415.76 --> 5439.80] My hope is filled on happiness. -[5439.80 --> 5469.78] My hope is filled on nothing else. -[5469.80 --> 5474.80] In Jesus' love and righteousness. -[5474.80 --> 5481.66] I dare not trust the sweetest frame. -[5481.66 --> 5487.44] But wholly trust in Jesus' name. -[5487.44 --> 5489.44] Christ the Lord, Lord of all. -[5489.44 --> 5495.44] Christ the Lord, cornerstone. -[5495.44 --> 5502.38] Weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[5502.38 --> 5511.44] Through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[5511.44 --> 5523.08] When darkness seems to hide His face. -[5523.08 --> 5529.18] I rest on His unchanging grace. -[5529.18 --> 5531.18] In every high and storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[5531.18 --> 5534.18] In every high and storm, He cares. -[5534.18 --> 5536.18] My anger holds within the veil. -[5536.18 --> 5540.18] My anger holds within the veil. -[5540.18 --> 5542.18] My anger holds within the veil. -[5542.18 --> 5546.18] My anger holds within the veil. -[5546.18 --> 5547.18] Christ the Lord, cornerstone. -[5547.18 --> 5561.18] Weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[5561.18 --> 5576.18] Through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[5576.18 --> 5577.18] Christ the Lord, Lord of all. -[5577.18 --> 5581.18] When He shall come with trumpet sound. -[5581.18 --> 5588.18] Oh, may I then in Him be found. -[5588.18 --> 5594.18] Dressed in His righteousness alone. -[5594.18 --> 5601.18] Father, stand before the storm. -[5601.18 --> 5608.18] Rise alone, Lord of all. -[5608.18 --> 5615.18] Weak made strong in Savior's love. -[5615.18 --> 5623.18] Through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[5623.18 --> 5624.18] Lord of all. -[5624.18 --> 5625.18] Rise alone, cornerstone. -[5625.18 --> 5628.18] Weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[5628.18 --> 5633.18] Rise alone, cornerstone. -[5633.18 --> 5638.18] Weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[5638.18 --> 5652.18] Through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[5652.18 --> 5665.18] The Lord's blessing. -[5665.18 --> 5667.18] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[5667.18 --> 5670.18] The Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you. -[5670.18 --> 5673.18] The Lord turn His face towards you and give you peace. -[5673.18 --> 5675.18] Amen. -[5675.18 --> 5701.12] There's a place where the streets shine with the glory of a man. -[5701.12 --> 5709.38] There's a way we can go there, we can bear, bear, be our time. -[5709.38 --> 5724.38] Because of you, because of you, because of your love, because of your love. -[5724.38 --> 5733.38] No more pain, no more sadness, no more suffering, no less. -[5734.12 --> 5741.38] No more sin, no more sickness, no injustice, no more death. -[5741.38 --> 5756.38] Because of you, because of you, because of your love. -[5756.38 --> 5765.44] Oh, the sins are washed away, and we can live forever. -[5766.54 --> 5770.84] Now we have His own, because of you. -[5770.84 --> 5780.84] Oh, we'll see Him face today, and we will dance together. -[5781.84 --> 5786.84] In the city of our God, because of you. -[5786.84 --> 5796.84] Oh, we'll see Him face today, and we will dance together. -[5796.84 --> 5801.84] There's a place where the streets are, and we will dance together. -[5801.84 --> 5805.84] There's a place where the streets are, and we will dance together. -[5805.84 --> 5821.84] There's a place where the streets are, and we will dance together. -[5821.84 --> 5840.84] There's a place where the streets are, and we will dance together. -[5840.84 --> 5843.56] Oh, we'll see you next time. -[5843.56 --> 5844.56] We'll see you next time. -[5844.56 --> 5853.40] We will dance together in the city of honor because of you. -[5855.24 --> 5859.56] Oh, my sweet soul wash away. -[5860.84 --> 5863.50] We can live forever. -[5864.90 --> 5868.92] I'll be with you, son, because of you. -[5870.84 --> 5874.28] Oh, we'll see you next time. -[5874.28 --> 5875.28] We'll see you next time. -[5875.28 --> 5884.40] We will dance together in the city of honor because of you. -[5900.84 --> 5904.28] We'll see you next time. -[5904.28 --> 5907.72] We'll see you next time. -[5907.72 --> 5911.16] We'll see you next time. -[5911.16 --> 5914.60] We'll see you next time. -[5914.60 --> 5918.04] We'll see you next time. -[5918.04 --> 5921.48] We'll see you next time. -[5921.48 --> 5924.92] We'll see you next time. -[5924.92 --> 5928.36] We'll see you next time. -[5928.36 --> 5930.36] We'll see you next time. -[5930.36 --> 5931.36] We'll see you next time. -[5931.36 --> 5934.80] We'll see you next time. -[5934.80 --> 5936.80] We'll see you next time. -[5936.80 --> 5937.68] We'll see you next time. -[5938.12 --> 5945.26] We'll see you next time. -[5945.28 --> 5946.00] Bye. -[5946.00 --> 5946.76] Bye. -[5946.76 --> 5947.34] Bye. -[5951.32 --> 5952.00] Bye. -[5952.00 --> 5953.62] Bye. -[5954.12 --> 5955.92] Bye. -[5955.92 --> 5957.92] Amen. -[5985.92 --> 5987.92] Thank you. -[5987.92 --> 5989.92] Thank you. -[5989.92 --> 5993.92] Thank you for always so fearlessly leaving us. -[5993.92 --> 5995.92] Oh, no. I apologize. -[5995.92 --> 5997.92] I feel like I apologize. -[5997.92 --> 5999.92] Anyway, tell us this one. -[5999.92 --> 6001.92] Thank you. -[6001.92 --> 6003.92] I'm glad you're still on my team. -[6003.92 --> 6005.92] They're playing for... -[6005.92 --> 6007.92] They're playing for... -[6007.92 --> 6009.92] They're playing for... -[6009.92 --> 6011.92] They're playing for... -[6011.92 --> 6013.92] They're all kidding. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 28, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 28, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 8995b3e684b4147e9a2e8b3b2bd419271bc19095..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 28, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,72 +0,0 @@ -• Call to worship from Psalm 146 -• God's attributes and blessings (faithfulness, helping the oppressed, giving sight to the blind) -• Praise to the Lord for creation and salvation -• Worship service begins -• Scripture reading not clear but involves praising God -• Discussion of God's power, love, and care for people -• The speaker discusses God's grace and mercy in salvation, emphasizing that it is not earned by good works but is a gift from God. -• The Bible verses referenced emphasize the idea that salvation comes through faith in Christ, not through one's own efforts or obedience to laws. -• The importance of recognizing and confessing sin in order to receive God's mercy is highlighted. -• A time of silent confession and prayer is requested, followed by a hymn praising God's mercy and redemption. -• Worship service at Emmanuel -• Offering for World Renew and Ukraine response -• Details on how gifts are being used to help people in Ukraine -• Quotation from Hebrews 6:10 about God's justice and reward -• Announcement of next week's offering for Safe Church Ministry -• Praise song referencing the glory of God's love -• Invitation to children to participate in a modified worship program -• Distribution of clipboards with information about the service -• Introduction of a guest speaker, Seth, an elder at the church -• Church family prayer led by Seth, including thanksgiving and requests for blessings on marriages and families -• The speaker thanks God for His faithfulness and blessings, particularly in the work of young adults' ministry -• The church is entering a new season of ministry and asks God to stir hearts to volunteer in various ways -• Prayer is offered for students returning from vacation and starting school, as well as those beginning college or university education -• The parable of the unmerciful servant from Matthew 18 is discussed, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and mercy -• The speaker reads a passage from scripture about forgiving others in order to avoid being tortured -• C.S. Lewis is quoted as saying that forgiveness is a difficult concept until one has something to forgive -• Hurting back or seeking revenge can be an initial reaction when wronged, but it's not the default response -• Forgiveness isn't easy and often involves shame and difficulty in apologizing -• The speaker discusses a family practice of having those who have been hurt by someone say "I'm sorry" to acknowledge their hurt -• Apologizing can be difficult due to making eye contact, being honest, and understanding the depth of impact -• Difficulty in acknowledging one's wrongdoings -• Responsibility of parents to teach children about God's forgiveness -• The struggle of saying "I forgive you" and its significance in relationships -• The cost of forgiveness, particularly for Jesus Christ and God the Father -• The concept of extravagant grace and Christians' responsibility to give it in response to receiving it -• The speaker discusses the parable of the servant who owes a large debt and is given forgiveness by his king -• Human nature often leads to overestimating one's ability to pay off debts or fix problems due to a desire for control -• Debts, both financial and relational, can be overwhelming and feel impossible to repay -• The concept of "functionally meaningless" is discussed, where large numbers become insignificant in everyday life -• A parallel example is given using national debt, highlighting how people often ignore or downplay their own debt due to its enormity -• Jesus' parable contrasts with the expectation that the forgiven servant would be grateful and forgiving towards others -• The story highlights the importance of forgiveness and extending extravagant grace to others just as God has done for us -• Peter asks Jesus about forgiving someone who sins against them seven times -• Jesus responds that one should forgive up to 77 times -• Forgiveness is not about a fixed number, but about always being willing to forgive -• The parable of the unforgiving servant shows the consequences of refusing to forgive others -• Christians have received extravagant grace and are called to give extravagant forgiveness in response -• Forgiveness is directly tied to how we experience God's forgiveness in Jesus -• A theology of forgiveness will be explored under three headings: sacrifice, carrying alone, and discipline or decision. -• The burden of guilt in relationships -• Forgiveness as carrying alone vs. handing over to Jesus -• The role of Jesus in forgiveness -• Forgiveness as resisting revenge, not doing wrong for wrong -• Forgiveness as wanting good for others and praying for them -• Forgiveness as seeking reconciliation and restoration -• Forgiveness as a decision or discipline -• The Bible teaches that forgiveness is a choice, not an easy or natural process -• Forgiveness involves choosing to love the person who wronged us and giving up revenge -• Christians have received extravagant grace from God and should offer it to others in return -• Forgiveness is a picture of the gospel and can be a powerful witness to the world -• The speaker prays for those in attendance to experience God's forgiveness and live out that love towards others -• Attendees are given paper with prayers of confession and forgiveness to write on, symbolizing their commitment to forgive -• Prayers for mercy and forgiveness -• References to Psalm 23, including God as a shepherd and guide -• Assurance of God's presence and protection -• Praise and thanksgiving for God's love and mercy -• Encouragement to go in peace and serve the Lord -• Acknowledgment of God's guidance and support throughout life's journey -• Dwell in the Lord's house forever -• Goodness, love, and mercy will follow wherever one goes -• God's blessings, love, and mercy mentioned -• Repetition of "We'll follow wherever I go" throughout the transcript \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 28, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 28, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 928c69330df617bb36d9a17106a76af5dbee1bad..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 28, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1074 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.20] I think that's my list. -[2.34 --> 3.74] I could be wrong if I missed it. -[3.88 --> 4.64] It couldn't have been that important. -[5.98 --> 6.56] Please stand. -[7.08 --> 8.88] We're going to gather together in God's presence, -[9.26 --> 13.00] worship Him as we are greeted by Him in worship. -[15.28 --> 18.96] Grace, mercy, and peace to you -[18.96 --> 21.84] from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ -[21.84 --> 25.26] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[26.50 --> 26.88] Amen. -[27.48 --> 28.58] Let's worship God this morning. -[30.00 --> 30.48] Amen. -[37.12 --> 41.06] Please join me in the call to worship from Psalm 146. -[43.74 --> 44.90] Praise the Lord. -[45.48 --> 46.82] Praise the Lord, my soul. -[47.60 --> 49.70] I will praise the Lord all my life. -[49.78 --> 53.28] I will sing praise to my God as long as I live. -[54.40 --> 59.04] Do not put trust in princes, in human beings who cannot save. -[59.04 --> 62.36] When their spirit departs, they return to the ground. -[62.98 --> 65.96] On that very day, their plans come to nothing. -[67.46 --> 70.80] Blessed are those whose help is the God of Jacob, -[71.10 --> 73.52] whose hope is in the Lord their God. -[73.52 --> 78.80] He is the maker of heaven and earth, the sea and everything in them. -[78.80 --> 80.62] He remains faithful forever. -[81.52 --> 85.32] He upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry. -[85.88 --> 87.70] The Lord sets prisoners free. -[87.70 --> 89.80] The Lord gives sight to the blind. -[89.80 --> 93.44] The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down. -[93.98 --> 95.86] The Lord loves the righteous. -[96.66 --> 100.58] The Lord watches over the foreigner and sustains the fatherless and the widow. -[101.22 --> 104.02] But he frustrates the ways of the wicked. -[105.50 --> 107.00] The Lord reigns forever. -[107.40 --> 109.90] Your God, O Zion, for all generations. -[109.90 --> 112.40] Praise the Lord. -[112.40 --> 112.44] Praise the Lord. -[112.44 --> 112.48] Praise the Lord. -[112.48 --> 112.90] Praise the Lord. -[139.90 --> 146.60] Lord, ye Almighty, the King of creation. -[148.10 --> 150.10] All my soul, praise the holy and your Rajas AND THE INVOL hook, -[150.10 --> 156.68] my Salon and Salon and the Annual A man. -[156.68 --> 157.60] Thank you. -[158.26 --> 159.30] Thank you. -[159.44 --> 159.64] Amen. -[159.88 --> 163.54] You cannot meet if you may come to this пока's story. -[163.54 --> 167.78] We may not到, fuckin way to each other. -[167.78 --> 176.90] He is the crucialfيف, make the great chief, and hard, fruitful andike, -[177.08 --> 184.96] acompanhations, and, of course he must love and give advice. -[184.96 --> 191.84] His soul has Tulip, Tulip, and He hathrichten his workflows across the frivolous United States, -[191.84 --> 194.32] in hiserverial laws, his great chiefs open up to the priests, -[194.34 --> 196.62] with his military force, specific ways, and ride his life, -[196.62 --> 205.26] And you don't see all that is mean for his feet. -[205.26 --> 212.62] Stand by his gracious Lord, take me. -[214.08 --> 220.50] Praise to the Lord, you will prosper your way. -[220.50 --> 234.86] And he plans you, surely his goodness and blessing shall daily attend you. -[234.86 --> 243.92] God, I am here, while the Almighty can do. -[244.52 --> 249.86] And with his love he breathes you. -[252.86 --> 259.86] Praise to the Lord, all and all that is in me. -[259.86 --> 263.74] We adore him. -[264.24 --> 268.26] All that thou sighted and breathed out. -[268.26 --> 274.22] Now in praises we mourn him. -[274.22 --> 283.08] Let me again sound from his people again. -[283.08 --> 290.76] And gladly forever, I mourn him. -[290.76 --> 317.02] You give life, you are love. -[317.02 --> 321.76] You bring life to the darkness. -[321.76 --> 323.80] You give hope. -[323.80 --> 331.40] You restore every heart that is broken. -[334.40 --> 339.02] Great are you, Lord. -[339.02 --> 341.02] You give life to the Lord. -[341.02 --> 343.20] It's your love. -[343.20 --> 345.70] In our hearts. -[345.70 --> 348.60] So we pour out our praise. -[348.76 --> 350.88] We pour out our praise. -[350.88 --> 352.46] It's your love. -[353.18 --> 355.14] In our hearts. -[355.40 --> 358.28] So we pour out our praise. -[358.44 --> 361.02] You hold me. -[361.02 --> 363.02] You give life. -[363.02 --> 368.02] You give life. -[368.02 --> 373.02] You are love. -[373.02 --> 378.02] You bring life to the darkness. -[378.02 --> 381.02] You give hope. -[381.02 --> 388.34] You restore every heart that is broken. -[388.34 --> 390.34] You give life. -[390.34 --> 394.34] All for you are love. -[394.34 --> 419.60] Lord, it's your best in our lungs till we pour out our praise, pour out -[419.60 --> 426.60] Till we pour out our praise, we pour out our praise with your pride. -[427.60 --> 434.60] In our lives, till we pour out our praise with all we. -[434.60 --> 453.60] In our lives, till we pour out our praise with all we. -[453.60 --> 466.68] Praise the Lord, and all the earth will shout your praise. -[466.96 --> 471.44] Our hearts will cry, these poems will sing. -[471.44 --> 480.44] Praise the Lord, and all the earth will shout your praise. -[480.44 --> 485.32] And all the earth will shout your praise. -[485.54 --> 490.04] Our hearts will cry, these poems will sing. -[491.84 --> 498.44] Praise the Lord, and all the earth will shout your praise. -[498.44 --> 503.44] Our hearts will cry, these poems will sing. -[503.44 --> 509.44] Till we pour out our praise, we pour out our praise with your pride. -[509.44 --> 516.44] In our lungs, till we pour out our praise with your pride. -[516.44 --> 526.44] In your breath, in our lungs, till we pour out our praise with your pride. -[526.44 --> 533.44] In our lungs, till we pour out our praise with your pride. -[533.44 --> 540.44] Till we pour out our praise with your pride. -[540.44 --> 559.88] Our confession and assurance today is coming from, um, I have a worship bible that has little sections in it that are paraphrased scripture. -[559.88 --> 562.88] So it's from a whole bunch of places in scripture. -[562.88 --> 564.88] But it's, it's really God speaking to us. -[564.88 --> 575.88] Because of my great love for you, and in the richness of my mercy, I made you alive with Christ, even when you were dead in sin. -[575.88 --> 580.88] I saved you and called you to live a holy life. -[580.88 --> 587.88] I did this, not because of anything you have done, but because of my own purpose and grace. -[587.88 --> 590.88] For it is by grace you have been saved through faith. -[590.88 --> 594.88] This is not from yourself or by your own works. -[594.88 --> 596.88] It is simply my gift to you. -[596.88 --> 599.88] You could never buy or earn this gift. -[599.88 --> 602.88] Jesus paid the full price. -[602.88 --> 605.88] By his blood, you are now justified. -[605.88 --> 609.88] Never think that your observance of my laws will save you. -[609.88 --> 615.88] As you keep them, they will have their own measure of reward, but they will not save you. -[615.88 --> 618.88] It is only my grace that makes you whole. -[618.88 --> 622.88] No amount of good works will save you either. -[622.88 --> 630.88] Rather, you have been created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which I have prepared in advance for you to do. -[630.88 --> 637.88] The fact is that you have been crucified with Christ and no longer live, but Christ lives in you. -[637.88 --> 645.88] The life you live in the body, you must live by faith in my son, who loved you and gave himself for you. -[645.88 --> 656.88] Therefore, count yourself dead to sin, but alive in Christ Jesus, and live a life worthy of the calling you have received. -[656.88 --> 664.88] Now, we can only recognize the magnitude of his grace and mercy when we face the sin and ugliness in our own lives. -[664.88 --> 673.88] And so let us lay our sins before him now in a time of silent confession, so that we can embrace the richness of his mercy. -[673.88 --> 701.88] Let us pray. -[701.88 --> 706.88] We have been transformed from death to life, from ashes to beauty, and all by the power of your grace. -[706.88 --> 710.88] And without purpose or value, you saved us, Lord Jesus. -[710.88 --> 713.88] We did nothing to earn this salvation. -[713.88 --> 718.88] It was only by your power and for your pleasure that you saved us. -[718.88 --> 723.88] You crafted us into a new creations full of divine purpose and value. -[723.88 --> 731.88] We have been transformed from death to life, from ashes to beauty, and all by the power of your grace. -[731.88 --> 733.88] What can we do in response? -[733.88 --> 739.88] But thank you for living in us and to seek with all of our hearts to live in you. -[739.88 --> 740.88] Amen. -[740.88 --> 747.88] I ask you, if you can, to stand and sing with us. -[747.88 --> 769.44] And to have you -[769.44 --> 775.02] For since we are heading, His mercy is gone -[775.02 --> 782.86] And not we can burn, no wrongs we have done -[782.86 --> 787.92] Our mission's all going, He counts on their soul -[787.92 --> 793.28] For into the sea, the part of our shore -[793.28 --> 799.68] For since we are heading, His mercy is gone -[799.68 --> 807.00] Praise the Lord, His mercy is gone -[807.00 --> 814.28] Shorter the darkness to everyborn -[814.80 --> 820.10] For since we are heading, His mercy is gone -[823.28 --> 828.32] What patience would be, as He lost and He bo'd -[828.32 --> 833.36] Our Father so tender, His calling us home -[833.36 --> 839.26] He will be broken, the fireless of all -[839.26 --> 844.48] For since we are heading, His mercy is gone -[844.48 --> 852.34] Praise the Lord, His mercy is gone -[852.34 --> 859.42] Stronger than darkness to everyborn -[859.42 --> 865.42] For since we are heading, His mercy is gone -[865.42 --> 873.62] What bridges of kindness He lavished on us -[873.62 --> 878.50] His blood was the famous, His life was the cause -[878.50 --> 883.58] His love, His mercy is gone -[883.58 --> 885.58] His mercy is gone -[885.58 --> 890.66] Praise the Lord, His mercy is gone -[890.66 --> 894.66] Praise the Lord, His mercy is gone -[894.66 --> 896.66] His mercy is gone -[896.66 --> 898.66] His mercy is gone -[898.66 --> 909.74] Stronger than darkness to everyborn -[909.74 --> 918.82] His mercy is gone -[918.82 --> 922.82] His mercy is gone -[922.82 --> 931.90] His mercy is gone -[931.90 --> 933.90] His mercy is gone -[933.90 --> 935.90] His mercy is gone -[935.90 --> 944.98] His mercy is gone -[944.98 --> 960.06] I will glory in my Redeemer -[960.06 --> 964.14] I will glory in my Redeemer -[964.14 --> 975.22] Who crush the problems of sin and death -[975.22 --> 980.30] My all will be saved -[980.30 --> 991.38] My all will be saved -[991.38 --> 993.38] Before the Holy Church -[993.38 --> 995.38] The Lamb who is my righteous guest -[995.38 --> 999.38] The Lamb who is my righteous guest -[999.38 --> 1004.46] The Lamb who is my righteous guest -[1004.46 --> 1006.46] The Lamb who is my righteous guest -[1006.46 --> 1017.46] I will glory in my Redeemer -[1017.46 --> 1019.74] My life be bought -[1019.74 --> 1022.46] My love be owned -[1022.46 --> 1037.54] I will glory in my Redeemer -[1037.54 --> 1041.54] His faithfulness my standing day -[1041.54 --> 1047.46] Your foes are binding and rush upon me -[1047.46 --> 1050.44] My feet are firm -[1050.44 --> 1052.16] God is raised -[1052.16 --> 1055.06] My feet are firm -[1055.06 --> 1057.18] God is raised -[1057.18 --> 1059.06] My feet are firm -[1059.06 --> 1060.46] God is raised -[1060.46 --> 1065.10] My feet are firm -[1065.10 --> 1066.08] God is raised -[1066.08 --> 1068.14] My feet are firm -[1068.14 --> 1070.16] God is raised -[1070.16 --> 1071.82] I will glory in my Redeemer -[1071.82 --> 1074.32] Who carries me on eagles' wings -[1074.32 --> 1076.22] He crowns my life -[1076.22 --> 1085.22] With loving kindness, His triumphs on all efforts to be. -[1085.22 --> 1094.22] I will glory in my Redeemer, who waits for me, I'm King of gold. -[1094.22 --> 1105.22] And then God will be in my paradise, His grace forever to be home. -[1106.22 --> 1111.22] His grace forever to be home. -[1111.22 --> 1121.22] I will glory in my Redeemer, who waits for me, I'm King of gold. -[1121.22 --> 1134.22] And when He calls me, it will be paradise, His grace forever to be home. -[1134.22 --> 1141.22] His grace forever to be home. -[1141.22 --> 1146.22] I invite you to be seated. -[1146.22 --> 1159.22] Good morning. -[1159.22 --> 1163.22] My name is Brenda and I'm a Deacon here at Emmanuel. -[1163.22 --> 1166.22] We continue our worship with the giving of our gifts. -[1166.22 --> 1170.22] First for the budget, which covers the administration of the church and its ministries. -[1170.22 --> 1176.22] And our special offering today is for World Renew, the Ukraine response. -[1176.22 --> 1185.22] Last week we gave to World Renew and they are about living justice, loving mercy and serving Christ. -[1185.22 --> 1188.22] They're compelled by God's deep passion for justice and mercy. -[1188.22 --> 1194.22] And we join with communities around the world to renew hope, reconcile lives and restore creation. -[1194.22 --> 1199.22] Today is again for World Renew, but it is specific to the Ukraine response. -[1199.22 --> 1209.22] World Renew is overwhelmed by the support given to people left vulnerable, displaced and traumatized by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. -[1209.22 --> 1221.22] Working with other members in their global response network, World Renew has been able to provide emergency food, shelter items and medical care to families affected by this tragic conflict. -[1221.22 --> 1228.22] Here are just a few ways gifts received have shared Christ's hope with people left vulnerable by this crisis. -[1228.22 --> 1236.22] In central and eastern Ukraine, where food is becoming scarce, people are receiving emergency food as well as other essential relief items. -[1236.22 --> 1246.22] Displaced and conflict affected households in the region of Transcarpathia, where an estimated 500,000 displaced people now reside, -[1246.22 --> 1252.22] are receiving cash assistance to support their emergency food and non-food needs. -[1252.22 --> 1261.22] Refugees that have fled to Moldova, where 89% of them are women and children, are receiving much needed medical care. -[1261.22 --> 1271.22] World Renew says thank you for your compassion and your gifts, and please continue to keep the people impacted by conflict in Ukraine in your prayers. -[1271.22 --> 1282.22] Hebrews 6 verse 10 says, God is not unjust. He will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. -[1282.22 --> 1291.22] Next week's offering is for Safe Church Ministry, which equips congregations in abuse awareness, prevention and response. -[1291.22 --> 1293.22] Let's keep generous. -[1293.22 --> 1313.22] The sun cannot compare to the glory of your love. -[1313.22 --> 1316.22] Life is an Vaccine Region in Son- nazis man했는데 -[1316.22 --> 1318.22] Now clans to help him with feverly snowballed byு. -[1318.22 --> 1320.22] The sun cannot change with evolvying mind -[1320.22 --> 1324.22] But it's only the devil that was T-Ni-Rouli soровoney in His heavens -[1324.22 --> 1334.22] And it's only by your blood that feels osoby con Lagolli -[1334.22 --> 1336.16] of love -[1336.16 --> 1340.18] and it's only by -[1340.18 --> 1341.66] your blood -[1341.66 --> 1344.10] that it's only through -[1344.10 --> 1346.12] your mercy -[1346.12 --> 1350.28] Lord I come -[1350.28 --> 1352.46] in the -[1352.46 --> 1354.36] offering of -[1354.36 --> 1356.26] worship to you my -[1356.26 --> 1357.98] King -[1357.98 --> 1360.08] no one on -[1360.08 --> 1361.86] end deserves the -[1361.86 --> 1364.20] praises that I see -[1364.20 --> 1368.02] Jesus may you -[1368.02 --> 1370.04] receive the honor -[1370.04 --> 1372.32] that you're due -[1372.32 --> 1376.16] O Lord I -[1376.16 --> 1378.02] bring an offering -[1378.02 --> 1380.02] to you -[1386.02 --> 1387.90] the sun -[1387.90 --> 1389.66] cannot come back -[1389.66 --> 1391.70] to the glory of -[1391.70 --> 1393.76] your love -[1393.76 --> 1395.84] there is no -[1395.84 --> 1397.72] shadow in your -[1397.72 --> 1400.04] presence -[1400.04 --> 1402.36] no -[1402.36 --> 1403.92] heart of man -[1403.92 --> 1404.80] will dare -[1404.80 --> 1406.04] stand upon -[1406.04 --> 1408.04] your throne -[1408.04 --> 1410.94] you are the -[1410.94 --> 1412.18] holy one -[1412.18 --> 1414.04] of heaven -[1414.04 --> 1418.00] and it's only by -[1418.00 --> 1419.46] your blood -[1419.46 --> 1421.68] and it's only through -[1421.68 --> 1423.50] your mercy -[1423.50 --> 1426.26] Lord I come -[1426.26 --> 1430.74] we bring an offering -[1430.74 --> 1432.36] of worship -[1432.36 --> 1434.48] to our King -[1434.48 --> 1437.92] no one on earth -[1437.92 --> 1443.90] Jesus may you -[1443.90 --> 1445.40] Jesus may you -[1445.40 --> 1447.38] receive the honor -[1447.38 --> 1449.46] that you're due -[1449.46 --> 1454.00] O Lord we bring -[1454.00 --> 1455.26] an offering -[1455.26 --> 1456.26] to you -[1456.26 --> 1461.68] O Lord we bring -[1461.68 --> 1463.00] and offering -[1463.00 --> 1465.64] to you -[1465.64 --> 1469.68] O Lord we bring -[1469.68 --> 1471.34] O Lord we bring -[1471.34 --> 1472.00] to you -[1472.00 --> 1473.92] O Lord we bring -[1473.92 --> 1474.08] to you -[1474.08 --> 1482.08] in our worship -[1482.08 --> 1483.06] I'd like to invite -[1483.06 --> 1484.48] the littlest among us -[1484.48 --> 1485.26] to come on up -[1485.26 --> 1486.44] follow Levi -[1486.44 --> 1487.24] come on Levi -[1487.24 --> 1488.18] lead the way -[1488.18 --> 1490.64] so kids who are -[1490.64 --> 1491.66] aged three -[1491.66 --> 1492.82] two five -[1492.82 --> 1495.06] are able to -[1495.06 --> 1496.00] go and -[1496.00 --> 1497.36] participate in a -[1497.36 --> 1498.50] modified children's -[1498.50 --> 1499.26] worship program -[1499.26 --> 1501.02] other kids are also -[1501.02 --> 1501.76] of course welcome -[1501.76 --> 1502.42] to come up -[1502.42 --> 1504.28] if you didn't grab -[1504.28 --> 1505.92] a clipboard -[1505.92 --> 1506.70] at the back -[1506.70 --> 1507.72] that has some -[1507.72 --> 1508.32] stuff for -[1508.32 --> 1509.50] today's service -[1509.50 --> 1510.26] you can grab -[1510.26 --> 1510.86] one of those -[1510.86 --> 1511.44] as well -[1511.44 --> 1513.30] going to be a -[1513.30 --> 1513.94] small group this -[1513.94 --> 1514.42] morning hey -[1514.42 --> 1515.90] all right -[1515.90 --> 1516.68] that's good -[1516.68 --> 1517.46] it's still a great -[1517.46 --> 1518.24] group this morning -[1518.24 --> 1518.58] right -[1518.58 --> 1521.08] is that strange -[1521.08 --> 1521.62] man talking -[1521.62 --> 1522.00] to me -[1522.00 --> 1523.46] I know -[1523.46 --> 1524.22] okay let's -[1524.22 --> 1524.64] move on -[1524.64 --> 1526.20] let's stand up -[1526.20 --> 1527.06] we're gonna -[1527.06 --> 1528.28] speak a blessing -[1528.28 --> 1529.18] over you guys -[1529.18 --> 1530.32] as you head -[1530.32 --> 1530.76] out -[1530.76 --> 1531.98] and so we're -[1531.98 --> 1532.46] gonna hold our -[1532.46 --> 1532.98] hands up and -[1532.98 --> 1533.46] we're gonna say -[1533.46 --> 1534.14] the Lord be with -[1534.14 --> 1534.64] you and then -[1534.64 --> 1535.46] church you're -[1535.46 --> 1536.40] gonna respond by -[1536.40 --> 1537.52] saying and also -[1537.52 --> 1538.68] with you -[1538.68 --> 1539.50] together -[1539.50 --> 1541.20] the Lord be -[1541.20 --> 1542.28] with you -[1542.28 --> 1544.98] Levi's ready -[1544.98 --> 1545.48] for a long -[1545.48 --> 1545.84] snap -[1545.84 --> 1548.76] go ahead -[1548.76 --> 1549.04] buddy -[1549.04 --> 1573.10] good morning -[1573.10 --> 1574.40] my name is Seth -[1574.40 --> 1575.48] and I'm an elder -[1575.48 --> 1576.32] at our church here -[1576.32 --> 1577.08] and it's my -[1577.08 --> 1577.80] privilege to lead -[1577.80 --> 1578.24] you in our -[1578.24 --> 1578.86] church family -[1578.86 --> 1579.74] prayer please -[1579.74 --> 1580.60] join with me -[1580.60 --> 1584.96] almighty creator -[1584.96 --> 1586.52] God we thank you -[1586.52 --> 1587.30] for the privilege -[1587.30 --> 1588.30] to be able to -[1588.30 --> 1588.90] approach your -[1588.90 --> 1589.24] throne -[1589.24 --> 1591.16] thank you that we -[1591.16 --> 1591.78] can call you -[1591.78 --> 1592.84] father through -[1592.84 --> 1594.00] Christ's sanctifying -[1594.00 --> 1594.62] work in our -[1594.62 --> 1594.94] lives -[1594.94 --> 1596.82] we praise you -[1596.82 --> 1597.32] for your -[1597.32 --> 1598.04] faithfulness -[1598.04 --> 1598.78] and we are -[1598.78 --> 1599.42] grateful that you -[1599.42 --> 1600.38] provide your spirit -[1600.38 --> 1601.08] for all of our -[1601.08 --> 1602.40] needs as we strive -[1602.40 --> 1603.26] to be faithful to -[1603.26 --> 1605.32] you please hear our -[1605.32 --> 1606.20] praise and our -[1606.20 --> 1608.82] prayers we thank -[1608.82 --> 1609.52] you for the gift of -[1609.52 --> 1611.06] marriage we ask for -[1611.06 --> 1611.72] your blessing on -[1611.72 --> 1612.64] Rachel and Kyle as -[1612.64 --> 1613.32] they have begun their -[1613.32 --> 1615.12] marriage we also ask -[1615.12 --> 1615.48] that you will -[1615.48 --> 1616.04] strengthen the -[1616.04 --> 1616.70] marriages in our -[1616.70 --> 1618.18] church and may your -[1618.18 --> 1619.20] spirit of love and -[1619.20 --> 1620.36] reconciliation dwell -[1620.36 --> 1621.36] richly in all of our -[1621.36 --> 1623.76] families we thank you -[1623.76 --> 1624.64] for the gift of work -[1624.64 --> 1626.32] as well thank you for -[1626.32 --> 1627.78] sustaining so many of -[1627.78 --> 1628.90] us through faithful -[1628.90 --> 1630.70] work we thank you as -[1630.70 --> 1631.44] well for the blessing -[1631.44 --> 1633.58] of the wealthings -[1633.58 --> 1634.56] thank you for 50 -[1634.56 --> 1635.10] years with their -[1635.10 --> 1636.50] business too you are -[1636.50 --> 1639.30] a good God we praise -[1639.30 --> 1640.14] you for our work for -[1640.14 --> 1641.12] your work in our -[1641.12 --> 1642.52] midst especially in the -[1642.52 --> 1643.06] work of the young -[1643.06 --> 1643.86] adults ministry -[1643.86 --> 1645.86] continue to move all -[1645.86 --> 1646.76] of us to reach out -[1646.76 --> 1647.58] and connect with the -[1647.58 --> 1648.58] variety of people at -[1648.58 --> 1649.68] our church from young -[1649.68 --> 1651.74] to old and thank you -[1651.74 --> 1652.24] for providing -[1652.24 --> 1653.40] opportunities to serve -[1653.40 --> 1654.72] here at this church -[1654.72 --> 1656.76] as we enter a new -[1656.76 --> 1658.38] season of ministry we -[1658.38 --> 1659.26] ask that you will stir -[1659.26 --> 1660.42] hearts to be willing to -[1660.42 --> 1661.60] volunteer in various -[1661.60 --> 1665.08] meaningful ways with the -[1665.08 --> 1665.68] new school year -[1665.68 --> 1667.02] starting we pray for all -[1667.02 --> 1667.92] of those returning from -[1667.92 --> 1669.26] vacation and those -[1669.26 --> 1671.36] preparing for school be -[1671.36 --> 1672.18] present with school -[1672.18 --> 1674.24] staff families and -[1674.24 --> 1675.28] especially the students -[1675.28 --> 1676.44] as they anticipate a -[1676.44 --> 1678.56] fresh start we ask for -[1678.56 --> 1679.50] your blessing on the -[1679.50 --> 1680.64] relationships and -[1680.64 --> 1681.28] learning that will -[1681.28 --> 1684.18] happen we also pray for -[1684.18 --> 1684.96] those who are starting -[1684.96 --> 1686.36] college or university or -[1686.36 --> 1687.36] continuing on in their -[1687.36 --> 1688.18] post-secondary -[1688.18 --> 1690.38] education particularly for -[1690.38 --> 1691.48] those beginning their -[1691.48 --> 1693.98] first year where travel -[1693.98 --> 1695.04] and distance are involved -[1695.04 --> 1696.70] provide safety and your -[1696.70 --> 1700.92] presence as we yet live in -[1700.92 --> 1702.78] a fallen world we cry out -[1702.78 --> 1704.50] for your mercy and justice -[1704.50 --> 1707.66] comfort those who mourn who -[1707.66 --> 1709.42] flee and who hunger and -[1709.42 --> 1711.80] thirst soften hearts of -[1711.80 --> 1713.24] leaders worldwide to -[1713.24 --> 1714.62] administer your love and -[1714.62 --> 1716.04] justice for people and your -[1716.04 --> 1718.42] creation and continue to move -[1718.42 --> 1719.92] in our hearts that we can -[1719.92 --> 1721.60] serve you and serve others -[1721.60 --> 1725.82] as we anticipate hearing your -[1725.82 --> 1727.78] word open our hearts and -[1727.78 --> 1729.82] minds to willingly receive the -[1729.82 --> 1732.14] truth may we respond with -[1732.14 --> 1733.50] willing lives of service -[1733.50 --> 1735.74] being faithful to you our -[1735.74 --> 1738.26] faithful God in Jesus name -[1738.26 --> 1738.92] amen -[1738.92 --> 1739.00] amen -[1739.00 --> 1768.98] for your -[1768.98 --> 1776.90] at some of the parables of Jesus in our worship together, and we're going to continue doing that -[1776.90 --> 1786.00] this morning with a parable from Matthew 18, the parable of the unmerciful servant. And so if you -[1786.00 --> 1791.74] have a Bible handy, whether one that you turn actual pages of or one that you have to turn on, -[1791.74 --> 1798.52] please go ahead and do that. Get that ready. It will be on the screen overhead there, but -[1798.52 --> 1805.48] I encourage you to keep one in your hands and ready to go. Join me then in reading God's word for us -[1805.48 --> 1812.06] this morning. Matthew 18, I'll start at verse 21. The screen will catch up to me when I get there. -[1812.98 --> 1819.22] I made a change, Linda. Sorry. Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, -[1819.52 --> 1826.86] how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times? -[1826.86 --> 1840.42] Jesus answered, I tell you, not seven times, but 77 times. Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a -[1840.42 --> 1849.12] king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. As he began the settlement, a man who owed him 10,000 -[1849.12 --> 1856.86] bags of gold was brought to him. Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife -[1856.86 --> 1865.16] and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt. Now this, the servant fell on his knees -[1865.16 --> 1875.16] before him. Be patient with me, he begged, and I will pay back everything. The servant's master took pity on him, -[1875.16 --> 1879.06] canceled the debt, and let him go. -[1881.40 --> 1888.40] But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred silver coins. -[1889.02 --> 1893.14] He grabbed him and began to choke him. Pay back what you owe me, he demanded. -[1894.48 --> 1897.84] His fellow servant fell on his knees and begged him, -[1897.84 --> 1901.12] Be patient with me, and I will pay it back. -[1902.56 --> 1903.80] But he refused. -[1904.94 --> 1909.36] Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt. -[1910.36 --> 1913.16] When the other servants saw what had happened, -[1913.60 --> 1917.76] they were outraged and went and told their master everything that had happened. -[1917.76 --> 1921.56] The master called the servant in. -[1921.56 --> 1924.08] You wicked servant, he said. -[1924.78 --> 1928.32] I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. -[1928.84 --> 1933.88] Shouldn't you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you? -[1935.48 --> 1942.62] In anger, his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured until he should pay back all he owed. -[1942.62 --> 1953.20] This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart. -[1954.28 --> 1955.62] This is the word of the Lord. -[1960.02 --> 1964.64] This is one of those times where, especially after reading the last line of the text, -[1964.86 --> 1967.86] it sort of feels really hard to say, thanks be to God. -[1969.20 --> 1969.64] Right? -[1969.64 --> 1972.02] This is how you will be treated, tortured, -[1973.02 --> 1977.00] unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart. -[1977.66 --> 1978.42] Thanks be to God. -[1980.80 --> 1984.44] C.S. Lewis, the author of the Chronicles of Narnia, -[1984.74 --> 1988.04] the Space Trilogy, the Screwtape Letters, -[1988.12 --> 1989.80] and a whole bunch of other really awesome things. -[1990.28 --> 1991.30] C.S. Lewis said, -[1991.82 --> 1995.06] Everyone says forgiveness is a lovely idea -[1995.06 --> 1997.66] until they have something to forgive. -[1999.64 --> 2000.92] We know what that's like. -[2002.14 --> 2002.24] Right? -[2002.28 --> 2006.70] It's really easy to be wronged or to be hurt and to want justice, -[2007.20 --> 2008.40] to want revenge, -[2008.54 --> 2009.98] to try and get even. -[2011.40 --> 2013.06] You've probably heard it before, -[2013.16 --> 2014.08] maybe even from me. -[2014.42 --> 2016.20] Hurt people hurt people. -[2017.02 --> 2017.46] Right? -[2017.52 --> 2018.90] When someone hurts us, -[2018.92 --> 2020.42] even if it's a small slight, -[2020.80 --> 2022.78] or we get cut off in traffic, -[2023.16 --> 2025.20] or even worse than getting cut off in traffic -[2025.20 --> 2026.46] when you're driving down the highway -[2026.46 --> 2027.72] and you're in the left lane -[2027.72 --> 2028.84] and the person in front of you -[2028.84 --> 2030.96] is speed matching the person beside them -[2030.96 --> 2032.66] and they're both going 10 kilometers less -[2032.66 --> 2033.66] than the posted speed limit, -[2034.10 --> 2035.64] there's nothing worse. -[2039.04 --> 2040.48] Or, even more, -[2040.66 --> 2042.10] and actually, -[2043.10 --> 2045.04] when someone does something awful -[2045.04 --> 2046.80] to you, -[2046.80 --> 2050.04] when people who are supposed to love us -[2050.04 --> 2050.58] leave -[2050.58 --> 2053.02] or they hurt us, -[2054.52 --> 2057.16] forgiveness isn't our default. -[2058.26 --> 2059.30] Hurting back is. -[2060.46 --> 2062.48] And hurting back can be a fight, -[2062.88 --> 2065.22] but it can also be flight. -[2065.68 --> 2065.84] Right? -[2065.96 --> 2068.44] Even as we try to punish the person -[2068.44 --> 2069.58] in our own minds -[2069.58 --> 2072.22] by robbing them of our presence in their lives. -[2072.22 --> 2074.90] This morning, -[2075.26 --> 2077.56] we're going to do the hard work together -[2077.56 --> 2080.28] of talking about forgiveness. -[2082.20 --> 2082.66] Now, -[2083.34 --> 2084.52] in our house, -[2084.58 --> 2085.38] in my family's house, -[2086.26 --> 2088.48] we have a way of being together -[2088.48 --> 2090.00] that we have designed, -[2090.22 --> 2091.10] Rachel and I, -[2091.16 --> 2091.62] as parents, -[2091.70 --> 2092.44] very intentionally, -[2092.80 --> 2095.12] so that when someone wrongs you -[2095.12 --> 2096.78] or when someone does something wrong, -[2096.86 --> 2098.98] if one of my kids hit the other, -[2099.08 --> 2099.84] they never do that. -[2099.90 --> 2100.06] Right? -[2100.74 --> 2101.90] If they yell at each other, -[2102.22 --> 2104.20] or if they get hurt by someone, -[2104.28 --> 2104.42] right, -[2104.52 --> 2106.26] unjustly or unfairly, -[2106.32 --> 2107.22] their feelings are hurt, -[2107.62 --> 2110.00] that the person who does the wrong, -[2110.12 --> 2110.88] the offender, -[2111.30 --> 2113.60] has to approach the one who's been hurt -[2113.60 --> 2114.54] and say, -[2115.04 --> 2115.54] I'm sorry. -[2116.98 --> 2117.44] Now, -[2117.48 --> 2118.20] this can be hard, -[2118.30 --> 2118.46] right? -[2118.48 --> 2119.06] Even just saying, -[2119.14 --> 2119.64] I'm sorry. -[2119.98 --> 2121.98] Especially if we're still processing -[2121.98 --> 2124.32] the emotions that made us angry -[2124.32 --> 2126.80] or the thing that caused us to hurt someone -[2126.80 --> 2128.14] in the first place. -[2129.04 --> 2129.18] And, -[2129.64 --> 2130.12] as well, -[2130.12 --> 2132.42] there's some shame involved here. -[2132.94 --> 2133.14] Right? -[2133.18 --> 2135.16] From a young age, -[2135.22 --> 2135.34] right, -[2135.40 --> 2135.56] there's, -[2135.92 --> 2137.94] we feel bad when we do bad, -[2138.02 --> 2139.32] or at least most of the time. -[2140.70 --> 2141.34] And so, -[2141.50 --> 2144.66] when my kids are saying sorry, -[2144.84 --> 2145.92] it can be hard for them -[2145.92 --> 2147.46] to make eye contact. -[2147.72 --> 2148.52] It can be hard for them -[2148.52 --> 2149.60] to be honest. -[2149.72 --> 2151.76] When I am saying sorry, -[2152.46 --> 2153.42] it can be hard for me -[2153.42 --> 2154.84] to make eye contact. -[2155.04 --> 2155.74] It can be hard for me -[2155.74 --> 2156.74] to understand the depth -[2156.74 --> 2157.70] of the impact -[2157.70 --> 2158.18] of the thing -[2158.18 --> 2160.16] that I am apologizing for. -[2161.38 --> 2161.90] Sometimes, -[2162.72 --> 2164.24] physically or emotionally, -[2164.52 --> 2164.94] we run -[2164.94 --> 2166.18] and we hide. -[2167.14 --> 2167.26] Right? -[2167.26 --> 2169.28] We know that there's something wrong -[2169.28 --> 2169.92] and the guilt -[2169.92 --> 2171.06] and the shame -[2171.06 --> 2172.56] of being found out -[2172.56 --> 2174.04] allows us to do this. -[2175.34 --> 2175.56] Now, -[2176.14 --> 2177.80] because Rachel and I -[2177.80 --> 2179.40] recognize that -[2179.40 --> 2181.16] we are not just teaching -[2181.16 --> 2181.86] our kids -[2181.86 --> 2183.00] how to be good people, -[2183.00 --> 2184.60] but part of the responsibility -[2184.60 --> 2185.48] of parenting, -[2185.62 --> 2185.80] right, -[2185.86 --> 2186.98] is to reveal -[2186.98 --> 2188.22] the nature of God -[2188.22 --> 2189.34] to your kids. -[2190.32 --> 2190.54] Right? -[2190.58 --> 2191.78] The nature of His forgiveness. -[2192.84 --> 2193.04] And so, -[2193.14 --> 2193.70] as parents, -[2193.84 --> 2194.78] we have decided -[2194.78 --> 2196.08] on very specific ways -[2196.08 --> 2196.86] that we talk to them, -[2196.90 --> 2197.70] where we approach them, -[2197.76 --> 2198.82] where we get down -[2198.82 --> 2199.52] to their level -[2199.52 --> 2200.24] so we can look them -[2200.24 --> 2200.80] in the eyes -[2200.80 --> 2201.84] and we can wrap our arms -[2201.84 --> 2202.34] around them -[2202.34 --> 2202.94] and hug them -[2202.94 --> 2203.90] and look them -[2203.90 --> 2205.10] squarely in the face -[2205.10 --> 2205.54] and say, -[2205.64 --> 2206.48] I love you -[2206.48 --> 2208.10] and -[2208.10 --> 2210.36] I forgive you. -[2212.24 --> 2212.64] Right? -[2212.64 --> 2213.50] We make it a point -[2213.50 --> 2214.12] to say, -[2214.30 --> 2214.98] I forgive you -[2214.98 --> 2216.30] and to teach our kids -[2216.30 --> 2217.18] and encourage them -[2217.18 --> 2217.98] to say, -[2218.22 --> 2219.32] I forgive you. -[2221.06 --> 2222.46] But you know what I've noticed? -[2223.92 --> 2224.90] That sometimes, -[2225.04 --> 2226.20] maybe even every time, -[2226.26 --> 2227.50] if you're taking it seriously, -[2228.72 --> 2230.18] it is just as hard -[2230.18 --> 2230.86] to say, -[2231.36 --> 2232.30] I forgive you -[2232.30 --> 2233.92] as it is to say, -[2234.02 --> 2234.52] I'm sorry. -[2236.28 --> 2237.06] Because forgiveness, -[2237.34 --> 2238.06] it turns out, -[2238.32 --> 2239.26] is hard -[2239.26 --> 2240.82] and it's costly. -[2242.04 --> 2242.16] Right? -[2242.16 --> 2243.48] And not just for you, -[2243.86 --> 2244.00] right? -[2244.04 --> 2244.94] But for Jesus, -[2245.14 --> 2245.28] right? -[2245.30 --> 2247.08] For Jesus to forgive us, -[2247.16 --> 2248.14] for God to forgive us, -[2248.26 --> 2250.84] it cost Jesus his life. -[2251.62 --> 2254.06] It cost God the Father his son. -[2254.90 --> 2255.02] Right? -[2255.04 --> 2256.50] And because God forgives -[2256.50 --> 2258.46] an infinite debt, -[2260.96 --> 2264.34] there's a consequent responsibility -[2264.34 --> 2267.50] for us also -[2267.50 --> 2268.60] to forgive us, -[2268.60 --> 2269.08] to forgive -[2269.08 --> 2269.10] to forgive -[2269.10 --> 2270.56] infinitely. -[2272.40 --> 2273.26] That's the main point -[2273.26 --> 2273.94] of this parable. -[2274.88 --> 2276.06] To put it another way, -[2276.24 --> 2277.16] the big idea, -[2277.32 --> 2277.46] right? -[2277.82 --> 2279.50] Christians have received -[2279.50 --> 2281.22] extravagant grace -[2281.22 --> 2282.42] and so, -[2282.60 --> 2283.16] Christians -[2283.16 --> 2284.28] give -[2284.28 --> 2285.74] extravagant -[2285.74 --> 2286.80] grace. -[2288.96 --> 2290.36] Christians have received -[2290.36 --> 2291.28] extravagant grace -[2291.28 --> 2291.90] from God -[2291.90 --> 2292.44] in forgiveness -[2292.44 --> 2301.06] and so Christians give extravagant grace in response. To make that point, Jesus uses this -[2301.06 --> 2307.80] parable. He says there once was a king and a servant who had an incredible debt to pay him. -[2308.60 --> 2314.86] The man, the servant, owed the king, we read, 10,000 bags of gold. If you've been around church -[2314.86 --> 2321.70] for a while, an older translation of that says 10,000 talents. That is clearly a huge amount of -[2321.70 --> 2329.32] money. In fact, if you work it out, it would take the number, if you take the number literally in -[2329.32 --> 2344.22] Greek, the average worker would take 164,000 years to pay it back. Not days, not weeks, years. -[2344.22 --> 2352.58] In fact, one scholar says the Greek language cannot express by two words a definite sum -[2352.58 --> 2359.88] larger than this. It's like when my son Malachi, who's seven, says, I have 10,000 million dollars. -[2360.84 --> 2368.96] Right? It's an impossible sum. And the man knows it's impossible. The king knows it's impossible, -[2368.96 --> 2375.16] but still, the man falls to his knees in front of the king and he pleads for time. Right? In this -[2375.16 --> 2384.32] impossible situation, he says, be patient with me. I'll pay it all back. Now, I think there's -[2384.32 --> 2388.90] something here for us to notice and I want you to get it, right? Because everyone knows it's -[2388.90 --> 2395.52] impossible, but this man, this servant, he doubles down in the delusion and says, I'll pay it back. -[2395.52 --> 2403.46] I think there's two things worth seeing quickly here. First, it is human nature, or it is fallen -[2403.46 --> 2411.96] human nature, to overestimate our ability to pay it back, right? To pay the debt, to fix the relational -[2411.96 --> 2423.50] problem with the king. We want to do it because we want to be in control of the solution, because we -[2423.50 --> 2429.80] believe that if we are in control of the solution, we feel like we're in control of the problem. -[2431.14 --> 2435.52] Now, let me track that with you again, right? Because it's so much bigger than monetary debt. -[2436.20 --> 2443.46] We want to control the solution because then we feel a sense of control over the problem. And if I -[2443.46 --> 2447.72] can get a handle on the problem, it can't actually really be that big. -[2447.72 --> 2455.90] Because I have the ability to handle it. We want to control the fix because it gives us a false sense -[2455.90 --> 2464.52] of managing the problem. I want you to think about that and how that idea is showing up in your life -[2464.52 --> 2472.34] over this next week. Second thing I want you to see here when he says, I can pay it back. -[2472.34 --> 2486.12] Now, when he says that, I wonder if he is operating out of an idea that the problem, the debt, is so big -[2486.12 --> 2494.64] that it is functionally meaningless. Now, let me give you a parallel example of what I mean. Now, when I -[2494.64 --> 2502.32] give this example, please note, I'm not an economist, nor am I actually really good with money, nor very -[2502.32 --> 2507.14] responsible with money. That's part of Rachel's role in our life together. But I think that actually makes -[2507.14 --> 2517.30] this point more clearly. And so think about global national debt. Okay, the gross national debt for Canada -[2517.30 --> 2529.94] in 2020 was $2,852 billion. That goes up every year. In the U.S., that's $27 trillion. And every year, the -[2529.94 --> 2536.50] Congress votes to raise the debt ceiling just so it can go higher and higher. Now, as a Canadian citizen, -[2537.74 --> 2548.10] I own that debt. Right? That $2,852 billion is technically my debt. They assess that debt on a -[2548.10 --> 2556.04] per capita basis. I am a capita here in Canada. I own that debt. And what I have learned is that like -[2556.04 --> 2564.22] the S&P Global Financial Institution and Moody's or the Fitch Credit Rating System, that this number -[2564.22 --> 2571.10] apparently has some relation to, you know, fiscal solvency and the ability for us to borrow and for -[2571.10 --> 2580.24] creditors and the like. But those numbers are so big that it would be impossible for us to pay them -[2580.24 --> 2587.16] should the creditors come calling. And we just live with it. Like that doesn't actually make sense. -[2588.68 --> 2594.10] Right? The number, the economic reality of them for most of us, probably even for all of us, even if -[2594.10 --> 2599.54] we are economists, even if we do understand all of this, those numbers are so big that they are -[2599.54 --> 2607.22] functionally meaningless. And so, except that to say those numbers are functionally meaningless, -[2607.22 --> 2614.92] I can't say I've ever thought about it or fretted about it. But I've never been concerned, and maybe that -[2614.92 --> 2620.94] makes me a bad citizen, I don't know, but I've never been concerned about gross national debt. Even -[2620.94 --> 2633.66] though I own it, I just live with it like it's no big deal. Maybe, just maybe, that's how we think, or rather -[2633.66 --> 2646.24] don't think about our debt in sin to God. That it's so big, it is functionally meaningless. And you don't -[2646.24 --> 2652.88] have to give it a second thought. And so, like the servant to the king, when the debt holder comes -[2652.88 --> 2658.66] calling, we go, yeah, yeah, sure, I got it, no problem. And we just casually dismiss it. -[2658.66 --> 2667.26] I want you to chew on that this week as well. Take that, both of those, back to the story. -[2667.76 --> 2673.22] The man knows it's impossible. The king knows it's impossible. And yet, in an extravagant act of -[2673.22 --> 2678.22] grace, the king doesn't just give the man more time, right? He asks for more time. The king says, -[2678.22 --> 2690.74] you know what? Gone. Erased. Forgiven. Now, as you read the story, you would hope, you would expect -[2690.74 --> 2697.38] the man to run out of the king's court exuberant and joyful. That's the story we want to hear. -[2697.92 --> 2704.66] That's likely what the first hearers of this story expected to hear in the next move. But that's not -[2704.66 --> 2710.32] the story that Jesus tells. Instead, we're told that this man left the king's court and he came -[2710.32 --> 2716.20] to someone who owed him money. And by comparison, this man owes him only a few dollars. And the newly -[2716.20 --> 2721.02] forgiven man grabs him and begins to choke him. And he says, pay back what you owe me. And with a -[2721.02 --> 2727.98] surprise choice of words or with some excellent writing here by Matthew and speaking by Jesus, -[2728.90 --> 2733.94] this second servant responds with almost exactly the same words, says, be patient with me -[2733.94 --> 2740.74] and I will pay you back. But he isn't patient. He doesn't extend the same grace. -[2742.42 --> 2747.76] It is sometimes harder to forgive than to say, I'm sorry. -[2752.44 --> 2760.56] But what do we know? That Christians have received extravagant grace and so Christians give -[2760.56 --> 2768.60] extravagant grace. Because if you don't, the king hears about this and he asks, I canceled all that -[2768.60 --> 2774.44] debt of yours because you begged me to. Shouldn't you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I -[2774.44 --> 2780.42] had had on you? And so remember what started this story. Peter asked Jesus, how many times should I -[2780.42 --> 2788.48] forgive someone who sins against me? Up to seven times. Now, in those days, a little bit of history for you. -[2788.48 --> 2795.28] In those days, the rabbis, the other rabbis around Jesus taught that people had to forgive a brother -[2795.28 --> 2803.84] for sin up to three times. If you've forgiven him once, you've forgiven him twice, you've forgiven him -[2803.84 --> 2811.80] thrice. After that, it's on them. That's their problem. Right? No more forgiveness needed. And so get what -[2811.80 --> 2818.66] Peter's doing. Right? Every other rabbi says three times, Peter's like, I know Jesus. I know how he -[2818.66 --> 2824.36] operates. Right? I know what he's been saying about how we're supposed to live together and be loving -[2824.36 --> 2830.84] and generous. So Peter is being super generous. Right? He's doubling it plus one. -[2830.84 --> 2840.28] grace upon grace. Or so he thinks. And again, we get it. Right? Because honestly, how many times -[2840.28 --> 2847.18] do we have to forgive someone for doing the same thing over and over again? You know the saying, -[2847.30 --> 2855.66] fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me. And this is the point in the parable -[2855.66 --> 2862.04] where Jesus loses us. Where people who don't get it won't get it. Right? You remember that Jesus -[2862.04 --> 2867.30] tells these stories to confuse the people who aren't meant to get it. Everyone knows that forgiveness -[2867.30 --> 2873.88] matters. Everyone knows that you have to forgive hurts and especially accidents. But what if they do it -[2873.88 --> 2882.80] again? And what if they do it again? And what if they do it one more time? And God forbid, what if they do it -[2882.80 --> 2891.86] again? At some point, surely, right, we can stop forgiving them. I mean, isn't that just me protecting -[2891.86 --> 2903.02] myself? Peter asks the question and Jesus says, not seven times, but 77 times. In some versions, it says -[2903.02 --> 2911.28] 70 times seven times. Right? The point here isn't a fixed number. It's Jesus isn't saying count out to 78 -[2911.28 --> 2917.52] and then on the 79th, right? They can remain unforgiven. Or he's not saying count out to 490 -[2917.52 --> 2922.72] and then on the 491st, you can stop forgiving them. Right? The point that Jesus is making here, -[2922.78 --> 2933.08] the point that we need to hear and see is never give up on anyone. Always be forgiving. -[2933.08 --> 2941.36] Christians have received extravagant grace and so Christians give extravagant grace. The man in -[2941.36 --> 2949.90] the parable doesn't forgive as he is forgiven and he ends up in jail. And then to underscore the point, -[2950.72 --> 2957.06] Jesus says those, at least to me this morning, terrifying words, this is how you will be treated -[2957.06 --> 2968.96] unless you forgive others from your heart. And so simply put, we need to get forgiveness right. -[2970.22 --> 2978.10] Right? How we forgive others is a direct reflection on how we have experienced the forgiveness of God -[2978.10 --> 2985.02] in Jesus and so it matters. Right? C.S. Lewis also says there is a straight line from the forgiveness -[2985.02 --> 2988.18] that God has given you to the forgiveness you offer others. -[2992.14 --> 3001.42] And so, in the time that we have left together, I want to walk you quickly through a theology of -[3001.42 --> 3008.62] forgiveness. Right? Forgiveness for each other as defined by the gospel of Jesus, as defined by -[3008.62 --> 3015.68] God forgiving us. And to do that, we're going to look under three quick headings. One, forgiveness as -[3015.68 --> 3023.44] sacrifice. Two, forgiveness as carrying alone. And then three, forgiveness as discipline or decision. -[3024.46 --> 3028.26] And so first, forgiveness as sacrifice. -[3028.26 --> 3058.24] Forgiveness as sacrifice. -[3058.24 --> 3064.14] If a person wrongs you, right? There's really only two sort of categories of response. You can make -[3064.14 --> 3069.72] them suffer for the wrong. Right? You can make them pay for the damage. You can make them replace -[3069.72 --> 3074.36] the broken item. Or you can make them pay through other means. You can make them suffer by destroying -[3074.36 --> 3080.36] their credibility at work. You can make them pay by slandering them, by talking bad about them to your -[3080.36 --> 3084.92] co-workers or to your friends. Right? If a person that does something that hurts you, you can make -[3084.92 --> 3092.12] them pay by hurting them back. Right? By causing them to suffer. Or the other category of response -[3092.12 --> 3097.44] is you can forgive them. Now, this is the more difficult path because in order for you to forgive -[3097.44 --> 3104.54] them, it is you paying. Right? You are the one who is suffering. You are the one who is sacrificing your -[3104.54 --> 3113.40] ability to retaliate, your desire for revenge, your want for justice. Right? When you so badly want to -[3113.40 --> 3119.82] get revenge, forgiveness says that you let go of that claim. When you so badly want to be paid back -[3119.82 --> 3126.40] for the hurt that was done you, forgiveness says that you absorb the loss. Right? If someone slanders -[3126.40 --> 3133.48] you behind your back, if they talk crap about you, forgiveness says that you absorb it. Right? The -[3133.48 --> 3138.48] debt of the wrong doesn't vanish here. Right? And nor does the fact that the thing done was wrong. -[3139.82 --> 3147.10] Instead, it comes down to who's going to pay. You or the one who committed the offense. -[3148.28 --> 3156.08] That's why forgiveness is so hard. But that's exactly the forgiveness of Jesus offered in the gospel. -[3156.40 --> 3163.98] Right? Here, again, trying to be quick here, but in Mark 10, in Mark 10, Jesus says, -[3164.10 --> 3172.86] for the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many. -[3174.16 --> 3180.26] Right? He came to sacrifice himself. In John 10, Jesus says, I am the good shepherd. I know my sheep, -[3180.26 --> 3186.36] and my sheep know me, just as the Father knows me, and I know the Father, and I lay my life down -[3186.36 --> 3194.04] for the sheep. The reason the Father loves me, Jesus goes on, is that I lay my life down. No one -[3194.04 --> 3205.30] takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. Jesus willingly sacrifices himself once for all so -[3205.30 --> 3214.94] that we may be forgiven. His forgiveness required sacrifice. Your forgiving requires one too. -[3218.28 --> 3229.44] Two, forgiveness is carrying alone. A few years ago, I read the book series Divergent by Veronica Roth. -[3229.44 --> 3232.44] I don't know how many of you remember that. It was made into a movie. The movies weren't great. -[3233.72 --> 3241.26] In the final book, called Allegiant, the main character, Tris, has had a, her brother, Caleb, -[3241.34 --> 3245.94] has betrayed her to the authorities. It's a dystopian set in the future Chicago. Anyway, -[3246.64 --> 3253.32] she has been betrayed by her brother, has been handed over to the authorities by him, -[3253.32 --> 3259.88] and that has impacted their relationship. That's one of the subtexts through the story. Tris says -[3259.88 --> 3266.22] in there, she says, to me, when someone wrongs you, you both share the burden of that wrongdoing. -[3266.22 --> 3274.16] The pain of it weighs on both of you. Forgiveness, then, means choosing to bear the full weight all by -[3274.16 --> 3281.30] yourself. She goes on, she says, Caleb's betrayal is something we both carry, and since he did it, -[3281.30 --> 3286.92] all I've wanted is for him to take its weight away from me. I'm not sure I'm capable of shouldering it -[3286.92 --> 3292.38] all by myself. I'm not sure that I'm strong enough or good enough, but I see him stealing himself -[3292.38 --> 3297.10] against this fate, and I know that I have to be strong enough. I know that I have to be good enough. -[3300.70 --> 3307.18] Forgiveness means carrying alone. Now, for Jesus, right, as we look at his life, carrying alone -[3307.18 --> 3315.40] means that he is the only one through whom divine forgiveness can be accomplished, right? Again, in -[3315.40 --> 3322.28] John, Jesus says, where I am going, you cannot come. He says, I'm the only one who can do this. In Mark, -[3322.80 --> 3329.52] Jesus prays, Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me, yet not my will, but yours. -[3329.52 --> 3338.24] Right? In Matthew, Jesus says, my God, my God, why have you forsaken me? And I am the way, the truth, -[3338.30 --> 3344.50] and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. Right? In Acts 4, salvation is found -[3344.50 --> 3350.04] in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. -[3350.42 --> 3357.72] Forgiveness in the gospel means only Jesus can do it. And so for us, as our understanding of -[3357.72 --> 3364.18] forgiveness works itself out from the person of Jesus, right, forgiveness as carrying alone means -[3364.18 --> 3372.54] deciding that the other person no longer has to share in your burden of the guilt, in carrying -[3372.54 --> 3378.96] that together, in your projection of the pain. It means choosing to bear the full weight of that -[3378.96 --> 3390.84] for that wrongdoing all by yourself. Now, let me be really abundantly, pastorally clear with you -[3390.84 --> 3397.52] in this moment. Because, of course, it's actually not entirely true that forgiveness means we carry -[3397.52 --> 3402.92] the entire load by ourselves. Right? It would be more accurate to say that forgiveness means we don't -[3402.92 --> 3411.68] make the other person responsible for that action or hurt or wrongdoing anymore. Instead, we take that -[3411.68 --> 3418.32] once shared burden of responsibility and we hold it ourselves just long enough to hand it over to Jesus. -[3420.70 --> 3428.60] Right? Jesus says, come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon -[3428.60 --> 3436.58] you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. -[3438.22 --> 3447.34] Part of that rest is taking that burden of forgiveness and holding it and placing it on him. -[3447.34 --> 3458.50] Then finally, and perhaps most difficult, forgiveness as discipline or as a decision. -[3459.40 --> 3463.38] Here's why this one's so hard. Because for so many of us, and our culture affirms this, -[3463.80 --> 3472.20] right, forgiveness is a feeling. And because it's a feeling, we don't really know if or when -[3472.20 --> 3477.18] we've actually forgiven someone. Right? We say things like, I don't know if I can forgive them -[3477.18 --> 3484.66] right now. Right? We say things like, I'm not sure if I've forgiven them. But let's quickly do a little -[3484.66 --> 3489.46] another survey, because the Bible fills up for us this meaning of forgiveness. Listen to these. These -[3489.46 --> 3495.30] ones will be on the screen, so you can follow along. Romans 12, 19. It says, do not take revenge, -[3495.30 --> 3500.62] my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written, it is mine to avenge, I will repay, -[3500.62 --> 3509.40] says the Lord. And so that means forgiveness is resisting revenge. 1 Thessalonians 5, 15. Make sure -[3509.40 --> 3514.38] that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for -[3514.38 --> 3521.38] everyone else. And so that means forgiveness is not doing wrong for wrong, not doing wrong in return. -[3522.60 --> 3528.88] Instead, Luke 6, 28, bless those who curse you. So instead of doing wrong, forgiveness means wanting -[3528.88 --> 3536.14] good for them, wanting blessing for them. Matthew 5, 44. But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for -[3536.14 --> 3544.10] those who persecute you. And so forgiveness involves praying for them. Romans 12, 18. If it is possible, -[3544.20 --> 3549.96] as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. And so forgiveness is seeking reconciliation, -[3549.96 --> 3558.86] restoration, wholeness with them. And then finally, Exodus 23, 24. If you come across your enemy's ox or -[3558.86 --> 3566.08] donkey wandering off, be sure to return it to them. And so forgiveness is being willing to come to their -[3566.08 --> 3573.92] relief. Now notice, in all of these examples of what forgiveness looks like in the Bible, none of them -[3573.92 --> 3585.40] are a simple feeling. Every one of them is an action, is a way of being, is a commitment to a certain way of -[3585.40 --> 3595.06] living together, right? Forgiveness is a decision. Now it's a hard one, absolutely. And so perhaps it's better to -[3595.06 --> 3603.26] call it a discipline. Forgiveness is a discipline. And Jesus understood this, right? He understood the decision. -[3603.26 --> 3609.54] He says in John 3, just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, -[3609.60 --> 3615.48] that everyone who believes in Him may have eternal life. He goes on, I tell you the truth, unless a kernel -[3615.48 --> 3621.70] of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. -[3622.06 --> 3630.68] Jesus knew the cost, and He still went forward to the cross. That was still His decision. Now again, -[3630.68 --> 3637.38] notice what I'm not saying in all of this, okay? Forgiveness is not the absence of anger at sin. -[3638.66 --> 3645.94] Forgiveness is not feeling good about what was bad, right? And forgiveness is not the absence of -[3645.94 --> 3656.92] serious consequences for sin and for wrong choices. Instead, hear this. I like the way David Platt -[3656.92 --> 3664.02] summarizes it. He says, the Bible is not saying that it is easy to forgive or even that it is natural -[3664.02 --> 3670.10] to forgive. However, it is Christian to forgive. -[3672.66 --> 3678.70] Forgiveness is a choice that we have to commit to living into over and over again. And it means -[3678.70 --> 3683.44] choosing not to bring up past wrongs, choosing to love the person even when we don't feel like it. -[3683.44 --> 3690.66] It means giving up revenge and coming to their relief. Look, here's the truth of this parable and -[3690.66 --> 3698.54] of the gospel and of human life, that you can call yourself a Christian only because of the extravagant -[3698.54 --> 3708.86] grace of God in Jesus. But you only live your life as a Christian when you offer the same grace to the -[3708.86 --> 3715.50] people around you. Christians have received extravagant grace and so Christians give -[3715.50 --> 3729.48] extravagant grace. You, me, doing the unfathomable and impossible thing of forgiving is a picture of -[3729.48 --> 3737.32] the gospel. And maybe it's even the clearest picture that we can offer the world. And so over and over -[3737.32 --> 3744.48] and over again, forgive. Because you are forgiven and so forgive. -[3746.70 --> 3751.12] Now, I still remember what C.S. Lewis said, that everyone says forgiveness is a lovely idea until -[3751.12 --> 3761.12] they have something to forgive. I know that this is hard. Yesterday, I came into this sanctuary and I've -[3761.12 --> 3772.18] spent two and a half hours sitting in every single chair in this sanctuary and praying for you who are -[3772.18 --> 3778.20] sitting there. For every single person who is here this morning and for you who are online and yes, -[3778.32 --> 3785.40] you too, even at the back. I prayed in your place, sitting there, saying, merciful God, -[3785.40 --> 3794.16] allow whoever sits here to experience the grace of your forgiveness and may they go from this place -[3794.16 --> 3802.14] able and willing to offer the same. And then I moved to the next chair and prayed the same all the way -[3802.14 --> 3811.60] through until I got there almost in tears. Because imagine, imagine that picture if you go from this -[3811.60 --> 3818.16] place that way. Imagine what might change if you go from this place that way. Now, I know that it's -[3818.16 --> 3827.34] still hard. And so to make that a little bit easier, if you reach under your chair, if you're sitting in -[3827.34 --> 3830.96] the chairs, most of you on the right hand side of your chair, there will be a little piece of paper. -[3832.42 --> 3837.00] Some of you, it will be more in the middle. Brandon, in the back corner there, it's on the left side -[3837.00 --> 3841.48] because the chairs were difficult for me. You'll find a little piece of paper, carefully pull it out. -[3841.76 --> 3845.40] You might have to lift the seat up just a bit, but there's a little piece of paper in there. -[3847.46 --> 3853.48] That little piece of paper, Linda and Clarence, Linda, if you look under your keyboard, Clarence, -[3853.62 --> 3856.52] the angle iron that's on the back of the table, there's one tucked under there. -[3857.24 --> 3858.06] I thought of you too. -[3858.06 --> 3868.86] On one side, it says, merciful God, I confess. And I challenge you. Take a pen and write a prayer -[3868.86 --> 3877.86] of confession. And then flip it over. Loving Father, today I decide to forgive. And you write a name. -[3879.18 --> 3883.74] And then you take this paper and you put it in your wallet or your pocket or your purse or wherever, -[3883.74 --> 3892.64] in your car, somewhere. Because throughout this message, you have been feeling shame or guilt -[3892.64 --> 3897.68] somewhere in your mind and you've been trying to push it away. Throughout this message, you have -[3897.68 --> 3902.60] been thinking of a person but trying really hard not to think of them. Thinking of a situation but -[3902.60 --> 3906.30] trying really hard to ignore it and pretend that, well, he's not talking about me. He's not talking -[3906.30 --> 3919.86] about that. We are. Take this as a reminder that today, God the Father looks directly into your heart -[3919.86 --> 3934.82] and he says, I forgive you. Son, I love you. I forgive you. Daughter, I love you and I forgive you. -[3935.80 --> 3945.06] And take this as a reminder to live that love and to offer that same forgiveness. Go. -[3945.06 --> 3952.04] So, forgiven and forgiving. Amen? Let's pray. -[3956.96 --> 3964.08] Merciful God, hear the cries of our heart. -[3966.00 --> 3974.02] Merciful God, speak words of love and life into the depths of our soul. -[3974.02 --> 3985.66] Give us rest as we experience, maybe for the first time, maybe for a new time, your mercy and grace in -[3985.66 --> 3995.16] forgiveness. And compel then by your mercy and grace, may we go and offer the same. May we go and live -[3995.16 --> 3996.70] the same. -[3996.70 --> 4009.48] Father God, by your grace, may we go and offer the same. May our -[4009.48 --> 4019.06] family see. May our friends see. May our children see. May our brothers and sisters see. May strangers on the street see. -[4019.06 --> 4026.12] May your kingdom come in our hearts just a little bit more this week. -[4027.80 --> 4031.78] Jesus Christ, we pray and all God's people said. Amen. -[4031.78 --> 4031.94] Amen. -[4031.94 --> 4031.98] Amen. -[4031.98 --> 4032.04] Amen. -[4032.04 --> 4035.98] Amen. -[4035.98 --> 4037.98] Amen. -[4037.98 --> 4039.98] Amen. -[4039.98 --> 4041.98] Amen. -[4041.98 --> 4043.98] Amen. -[4043.98 --> 4045.98] Amen. -[4045.98 --> 4046.04] Amen. -[4046.04 --> 4046.08] Amen. -[4046.08 --> 4046.62] Amen. -[4046.62 --> 4046.68] Amen. -[4046.68 --> 4046.72] Amen. -[4046.72 --> 4046.76] Amen. -[4046.76 --> 4046.78] Amen. -[4046.78 --> 4046.82] Amen. -[4049.06 --> 4073.82] Amen. -[4077.82 --> 4078.66] Amen. -[4078.66 --> 4078.72] Amen. -[4078.72 --> 4082.38] that burned within my heart -[4082.38 --> 4084.88] has found him -[4084.88 --> 4087.54] with an adoring heart -[4087.54 --> 4088.48] has followed -[4088.48 --> 4093.48] the paths of earthly wisdom -[4093.48 --> 4097.96] if he for my unbelief -[4097.96 --> 4102.72] renew the fire again -[4102.72 --> 4108.04] Lord have mercy -[4108.04 --> 4112.36] Christ have mercy -[4112.36 --> 4116.66] Lord have mercy -[4116.66 --> 4120.56] on me -[4120.56 --> 4125.12] Lord have mercy -[4125.12 --> 4129.30] Christ have mercy -[4129.30 --> 4133.28] Lord have mercy -[4133.28 --> 4137.44] on me -[4137.44 --> 4142.76] I have built an altar -[4142.76 --> 4145.22] where I worship -[4145.22 --> 4147.96] the kingdom of heaven -[4147.96 --> 4150.76] I have taken journeys -[4150.76 --> 4153.76] that have gone before -[4153.76 --> 4154.76] I have confused -[4154.76 --> 4159.08] now I am returning -[4159.08 --> 4161.14] through your mercy -[4161.14 --> 4164.54] so that I have followed me -[4164.54 --> 4166.54] heart of my trust -[4166.54 --> 4167.92] I have mercy on you -[4167.92 --> 4172.92] I have mercy on me -[4172.92 --> 4177.86] Lord have mercy -[4177.86 --> 4181.86] Christ have mercy -[4181.86 --> 4184.86] Lord have mercy -[4184.86 --> 4189.18] Lord have mercy on me -[4189.18 --> 4193.18] Lord have mercy -[4193.18 --> 4193.48] Lord have mercy -[4193.48 --> 4197.18] Christ have mercy -[4197.18 --> 4201.18] Lord have mercy -[4201.18 --> 4203.18] on me -[4203.18 --> 4212.50] I have mercy on me -[4212.50 --> 4215.56] I have long to know you -[4215.56 --> 4228.88] I have long to know you -[4228.88 --> 4233.20] and all your tender mercy -[4233.20 --> 4234.52] I have mercy on you -[4234.52 --> 4237.52] Lord have mercy on me -[4237.52 --> 4239.58] I have mercy on you -[4239.58 --> 4240.96] Lord have mercy on you -[4240.96 --> 4249.96] Christ have mercy on you -[4249.96 --> 4251.90] Lord have mercy on you -[4251.90 --> 4253.90] Lord have mercy on me -[4253.90 --> 4263.22] Lord have mercy on me -[4263.22 --> 4265.22] Lord have mercy on me -[4265.22 --> 4267.22] Lord have mercy on me -[4267.22 --> 4279.54] Lord have mercy on me -[4279.54 --> 4281.54] Lord have mercy -[4281.54 --> 4285.54] Christ have mercy -[4285.54 --> 4293.54] Lord have mercy on me -[4293.54 --> 4310.86] Lord have mercy on me -[4310.86 --> 4314.80] Lord have mercy -[4314.80 --> 4319.14] Christ have mercy -[4319.14 --> 4331.14] Lord have mercy on us -[4331.14 --> 4339.64] As you go this week -[4339.64 --> 4341.50] know that God himself -[4341.50 --> 4343.68] goes with you -[4343.68 --> 4347.04] and in his going with you -[4347.04 --> 4348.86] he sustains you -[4348.86 --> 4350.22] and holds you up -[4350.22 --> 4351.76] for whatever it is -[4351.76 --> 4352.52] you may face -[4352.52 --> 4353.92] and so receive -[4353.92 --> 4355.92] his blessing -[4355.92 --> 4359.18] may God go before you -[4359.18 --> 4360.36] to guide you -[4360.36 --> 4362.28] God go behind you -[4362.28 --> 4362.98] to guard you -[4362.98 --> 4364.28] God go beneath you -[4364.28 --> 4365.30] to support you -[4365.30 --> 4367.16] and God go beside you -[4367.16 --> 4368.42] to befriend you -[4368.42 --> 4370.48] do not be afraid -[4370.48 --> 4372.02] let the blessing of God -[4372.02 --> 4373.04] come upon you today -[4373.04 --> 4374.86] do not be afraid -[4374.86 --> 4376.66] but go in peace -[4376.66 --> 4377.60] forgiven -[4377.60 --> 4379.74] to love -[4379.74 --> 4381.02] and serve -[4381.02 --> 4382.02] the Lord -[4382.02 --> 4383.88] Amen -[4383.88 --> 4387.26] Lord -[4387.26 --> 4402.42] you are my shepherd -[4402.42 --> 4406.40] you are my shepherd -[4406.40 --> 4408.62] you make me lie -[4408.62 --> 4410.78] laughter -[4410.78 --> 4420.76] and filled up -[4420.76 --> 4421.22] You lead me by -[4421.22 --> 4422.96] You lead me by -[4422.96 --> 4426.56] God shall have puede -[4426.56 --> 4434.56] For you are with me and you come for me -[4434.56 --> 4443.56] Surely goodness, love and mercy will follow wherever I go -[4443.56 --> 4452.56] Surely goodness, love and mercy will follow wherever I go -[4452.56 --> 4462.56] Surely goodness, love and mercy will follow wherever I go -[4464.56 --> 4471.56] Lord, you're my shepherd, you make me lie in the sea -[4471.56 --> 4480.56] You lead me by the still waters, you reach your righteousness in me -[4480.56 --> 4488.56] Though I walk through the valley, I will fear no evil thing -[4488.56 --> 4496.56] For you are with me and you come for me -[4496.56 --> 4505.56] Surely goodness, love and mercy will follow wherever I go -[4505.56 --> 4513.56] Surely goodness, love and mercy will follow wherever I go -[4513.56 --> 4523.56] Surely goodness, love and mercy will follow wherever I go -[4523.56 --> 4533.56] I'm gonna dwell in the house of the Lord forever -[4533.56 --> 4539.56] I'm gonna dwell in the house of the Lord forever -[4539.56 --> 4549.56] I'm gonna dwell in the house of the Lord forever -[4549.56 --> 4559.56] I'm gonna dwell in the house of the Lord forever -[4559.56 --> 4563.56] I'm gonna dwell in the house of the Lord forever -[4563.56 --> 4573.56] Surely goodness, love and mercy, will follow wherever I go -[4573.56 --> 4577.56] Surely goodness, love and mercy will follow wherever I go -[4577.56 --> 4580.18] God bless, love, and mercy -[4580.18 --> 4584.36] We'll follow wherever I go -[4584.36 --> 4588.56] Surely God bless, love, and mercy -[4588.56 --> 4593.56] We'll follow wherever I go -[4607.56 --> 4637.54] We'll follow wherever I go -[4637.56 --> 4667.54] We'll follow wherever I go -[4667.56 --> 4697.54] We'll follow wherever I go -[4697.56 --> 4727.54] We'll follow wherever I go -[4727.56 --> 4747.56] We'll follow wherever I go -[4757.56 --> 4787.54] We'll follow wherever I go -[4787.56 --> 4817.54] We'll follow wherever I go diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 29 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 29 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0044740b5f3fb2a94e29c0e57078493b7566784e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 29 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,91 +0,0 @@ -• Praise to God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit -• Music and singing of hymns -• Confession and assurance time in service -• Silent prayer and a prayer of assurance -• Scripture reading about Christ's salvation and intercession -• Assurance of forgiveness through Jesus -• Prayer and thanksgiving in Jesus' name -• The strength of faith despite challenges -• The power of Christ's sacrifice and resurrection -• Invitations to sing hymns ("It is Well with My Soul") -• Special offerings for various ministries and missions -• Introduction to a new sermon or teaching -• Invitation to the children to come forward -• Discussion of a play date and shopping with Malachi -• Description of activities at a youth day camp, including Olympic-themed games -• Explanation of the Bible passage about running life as a race and keeping one's eyes on Jesus -• Discussion of the kids blessing to the church -• Prayers for continued learning about God and what is being taught -• Instructions for the kids blessing ceremony -• Announcement of Annalise and Matt Birkenpass's new baby boy, Reuben -• Upcoming Lord's Supper celebration next Sunday -• Congregational prayer, including requests for God's help and guidance in various areas such as personal struggles, global conflicts, and community needs -• Blessing on the work of relief agencies, particularly World Renew, following devastating earthquake in Haiti -• Gratitude for cooler weather helping to combat forest fires -• Request for blessing on upcoming national election, seeking leaders who recognize God's authority -• Prayer for those shut-in, isolated, or suffering from depression -• Blessing on new church ministries and volunteers -• Prayers for students, teachers, and travelers as they return to work or school -• The pastor introduces Tim and Charity Johnson who will be leading a conversation on indigenous ministry -• The church wants to address hard questions and conversations, including their history with residential schools and its impact on indigenous communities -• The discovery of unmarked graves at Kamloops Indian School and other First Nations in Canada is discussed -• The need for the church to engage in discussions around this topic and live well within these histories together -• Tim and Charity Johnson are introduced as they work with North American Indigenous Ministries (NAME) in BC -• Introduction of Tim Johnson and his wife Charity, who have been involved in Native Ministry for 20 years -• Discussion of the challenges faced by their community due to wildfires and evacuation alerts -• Explanation of the importance of acknowledging whose territory they are on when traveling or working with Indigenous communities -• Overview of Name Marine Medical Mission's history, starting as a marine medical mission that evolved into sharing the gospel -• Description of the organization's focus on engaging youth through various activities and using these as tools to share the gospel -• Discussion of the importance of developing relationships and being gentle when introducing Christianity in light of historical trauma from residential schools -• Discussion of the impact of residential schools on Indigenous communities in Canada -• Comparison between North American Western white perspective and Indigenous perspective on historical trauma and its acknowledgement -• Church burnings attributed to individuals from other backgrounds rather than Indigenous people -• Community's response to church burnings, emphasizing that it is not their way -• Perspective on forest fires as a form of purification or cleansing by the Creator -• Importance of listening to stories with compassion and attentiveness -• The importance of listening to and understanding the stories of First Nations people from different walks of life -• A personal experience of walking in a memorial procession with local bands, which was a powerful experience of supporting the community -• Recognizing and acknowledging the historical trauma inflicted on Indigenous communities, including residential schools -• Conversations about Christianity and how it is often misrepresented by those who abuse their power and authority -• The importance of having open and honest conversations to share the true meaning of being a Christian or Christ follower -• Trauma and historical mistreatment of Indigenous people -• Importance of listening and supporting Indigenous communities -• The role of God, prayer, and faith in healing trauma -• The idea that reconciliation is a Canadian problem, not just an Aboriginal issue -• Quotes from Ray Aldred about the relationship between nation-states and heaven/earth/hell -• Suggestions for supporting Indigenous people, including education, affirmation, and prayer -• Bringing indigenous youth into the community -• Preparing youth to be involved in the community -• The impact of colonialism and Christianity on indigenous communities -• The distinction between traditional patriarchal church values and matriarchal First Nations cultures -• Challenges of working with complex, ongoing crises (e.g. COVID, heat stroke, discovery of unmarked graves) -• Finding hope in difficult times -• Challenges of walking with people through traumatic experiences -• Criticism of past mission work approaches -• Importance of loving and respecting people from other cultures -• Aerial searches and funding for residential schools -• Paternalistic vs inclusive approach to spirituality and worship -• Inter generational survival mode and its impact on communities -• The Christian gospel as a tool against imperialism and for unity -• Jesus and the Christian message as a solution for all people -• The speaker's role as a waiter and the idea that customers have the freedom to accept or reject food -• The importance of presenting truth in conversations within the fellowship -• Misrepresentations of God, church, and Christianity from a residential school background -• The challenge of addressing hurt and pain in gatherings and promoting a gospel message -• The speaker's observation of the community's amazing culture and integration of prayer into daily life -• The lack of Jesus in the community's spiritual practices and reliance on medicine men and ancestors -• Questions about the reliability of ancestors as guides for spiritual growth -• The healing and transformative power of Christ, especially for those with intergenerational trauma -• Resources and support for addressing intergenerational trauma, including a book recommendation and email contact information -• A gift to the library from Tim and Charity, a Christian author's perspective on Indigenous issues -• Prayer for healing, strength, and empowerment in ministry, particularly for local and global missionaries -• Worship service or church gathering -• Song and response to God's call -• Themes of devotion, obedience, and serving God -• God's care, protection, and provision for His people -• God's mercy and goodness in everyday life -• Expressions of praise, gratitude, and love for God -• The speaker is being pursued by "goodness" -• The pursuit continues for a significant period of time -• The speaker reflects on God's faithfulness and goodness throughout their life -• The phrase "I will sing of the goodness of God" is repeated multiple times \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 29 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 29 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3b57a5c631fdde32e6f4e0d550dc04c0cc507dea..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 29 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,987 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 272.00] Thank you. -[272.00 --> 274.00] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 302.00] Thank you. -[302.00 --> 306.00] Thank you. -[306.00 --> 308.00] Thank you. -[336.00 --> 338.00] Thank you. -[366.00 --> 368.00] Thank you. -[396.00 --> 398.00] Thank you. -[398.00 --> 400.00] Thank you. -[400.00 --> 402.00] Thank you. -[402.00 --> 404.00] Thank you. -[404.00 --> 406.00] Thank you. -[406.00 --> 408.00] Thank you. -[408.00 --> 410.00] Thank you. -[410.00 --> 412.00] Thank you. -[412.00 --> 414.00] Thank you. -[414.00 --> 416.00] Thank you. -[416.00 --> 418.00] Thank you. -[418.00 --> 420.00] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 422.00] Thank you. -[422.00 --> 424.00] Thank you. -[452.00 --> 454.00] Thank you. -[482.00 --> 484.00] Thank you. -[484.00 --> 486.00] Thank you. -[486.00 --> 488.00] Thank you. -[488.00 --> 490.00] Thank you. -[490.00 --> 492.00] Thank you. -[492.00 --> 494.00] Thank you. -[494.00 --> 498.36] Father, praise the Son. -[498.98 --> 505.52] Praise the Spirit, three in one. -[505.52 --> 511.46] God of glory, majesty. -[512.68 --> 519.52] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[524.00 --> 531.16] And the morning that you rose, all of heaven held its breath. -[531.16 --> 538.60] Till that stone was moved for good, for the Lamb had conquered death. -[539.16 --> 545.70] And the dead rose from their tomb, and the angels stood in awe. -[546.06 --> 552.68] For the souls of all who'd come, to the Father are restored. -[554.00 --> 561.86] And the church of Christ was born, then the Spirit lit the flame. -[562.26 --> 569.08] Now this gospel truth of God shall not kneel, shall not faint. -[569.54 --> 576.22] By His blood and in His name, in His freedom I am free. -[576.22 --> 584.22] For the love of Jesus Christ, who has resurrected me. -[586.02 --> 592.48] Praise the Father, praise the Son. -[593.20 --> 599.56] Praise the Spirit, three in one. -[599.56 --> 605.68] God of glory, majesty. -[605.68 --> 613.88] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[613.88 --> 620.96] Praise the Father, praise the Son. -[621.62 --> 627.56] Praise the Spirit, three in one. -[627.56 --> 634.46] God of glory, majesty. -[634.46 --> 643.10] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[643.10 --> 652.34] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[652.34 --> 654.34] Praise the Son. -[654.34 --> 655.34] Praise the Lord, praise the Son. -[655.34 --> 656.34] Praise the Lord, praise the Son. -[656.34 --> 662.34] For our time of confession and assurance, right after this next song, we're going to go directly -[662.34 --> 668.12] into a time of silent prayer, which I will conclude with a prayer of assurance. -[668.12 --> 671.54] law of grace, P outputs, prophecy in the night and darkness, right after this next song, -[671.54 --> 672.12] as we went through the spring ofglass. -[672.12 --> 672.96] Lordium. -[672.96 --> 674.12] You're before God is travels and measurement, right after this next year. -[674.12 --> 675.02] economics. -[675.02 --> 676.00] There will be a virtue, -[676.00 --> 705.98] Thank you. -[706.00 --> 715.20] Our Father in heaven, holy is your name. -[715.80 --> 722.38] Your kingdom come on earth as in heaven. -[724.38 --> 732.90] Our Father in heaven, believe who you are. -[732.90 --> 740.90] Your will be done on earth as in heaven. -[742.10 --> 749.90] Feed us today what we need to live. -[749.90 --> 757.90] Forgive all our sins as we forgive. -[757.90 --> 764.90] And keep us safe. -[764.90 --> 773.90] Our Father in heaven, holy is your name. -[773.90 --> 781.90] Your kingdom come on earth as in heaven. -[781.90 --> 790.90] Our Father in heaven, reveal who you are. -[790.90 --> 799.90] Your will be done on earth as in heaven. -[799.90 --> 809.90] Feed us today what we need to live. -[809.90 --> 817.90] Forgive all our sins as we forgive. -[817.90 --> 824.90] And keep us safe. -[824.90 --> 828.90] The kingdom is yours. -[828.90 --> 833.90] The power is yours. -[833.90 --> 840.90] And the glory forever. -[840.90 --> 846.90] The kingdom is yours. -[846.90 --> 847.90] The power is yours. -[847.90 --> 851.90] The power is yours. -[851.90 --> 856.90] And the glory forever. -[856.90 --> 857.90] Our Father in heaven. -[857.90 --> 863.90] Our Father in heaven. -[863.90 --> 864.90] Our Father in heaven. -[864.90 --> 865.90] Our Father in heaven. -[865.90 --> 870.90] Our Father in heaven. -[870.90 --> 883.90] Our Father in heaven. -[883.90 --> 885.90] Our Father in heaven. -[885.90 --> 891.90] Our Father in heaven. -[891.90 --> 895.46] Father in heaven. -[921.90 --> 938.02] Scripture declares that you are Christ, -[939.06 --> 943.50] are a sure and steadfast honor of the soul. -[945.24 --> 950.52] You are able for all time to save those who draw near to the Father through you, -[950.52 --> 955.52] who lives to intercede and atonement for us all. -[957.24 --> 962.90] In you, our Christ, abides the assurance of forgiveness we seek. -[964.16 --> 967.16] And in your name alone we pray and give thanks. -[968.24 --> 968.62] Amen. -[972.62 --> 975.04] If you know actions, I encourage you to do them. -[975.42 --> 978.36] It's hard to do them with only one hand, so I might not be able to join you. -[980.52 --> 995.52] There is love that came for us, -[996.30 --> 1000.98] Humble to our sinners' cross, -[1000.98 --> 1005.98] Broke my shame and sinfulness, -[1005.98 --> 1010.98] You rose again victorious. -[1014.98 --> 1019.78] Faithfulness none can deny, -[1020.42 --> 1025.38] Through the storm and through the fire, -[1025.38 --> 1030.38] There is truth that sets me free, -[1030.38 --> 1037.38] Jesus Christ who lives in me. -[1037.38 --> 1043.38] You are stronger, you are stronger, -[1043.38 --> 1048.38] Sin is broken, you have saved me. -[1048.38 --> 1053.38] It is written, Christ is risen, -[1053.38 --> 1059.38] Jesus you are Lord of all. -[1059.38 --> 1072.38] No beginning and no end, -[1072.38 --> 1077.38] You're my hope and my defense, -[1077.38 --> 1082.38] You came to see and save the lost, -[1082.38 --> 1084.38] You made it all upon the cross. -[1084.38 --> 1089.38] You made it all upon the cross. -[1089.38 --> 1094.38] You are stronger, you are stronger, -[1094.38 --> 1096.38] You are stronger, -[1096.38 --> 1101.38] Sin is broken, you have saved me. -[1101.38 --> 1103.38] It is risen, -[1103.38 --> 1104.38] It is risen, -[1104.38 --> 1106.38] Christ is risen, -[1106.38 --> 1114.38] Jesus you are Lord of all. -[1114.38 --> 1118.38] So let Your name be lifted higher. -[1121.28 --> 1130.38] So let Your name be lifted higher. -[1130.38 --> 1135.38] Be lifted higher. -[1135.38 --> 1144.84] So let your name be lifted higher, be lifted higher, be lifted higher. -[1146.26 --> 1155.54] So let your name be lifted higher, be lifted higher, be lifted higher. -[1156.54 --> 1164.72] You are stronger, you are stronger, sin is broken. -[1165.38 --> 1172.98] you have saved me it is -[1178.58 --> 1182.98] you are stronger -[1186.42 --> 1188.98] you have saved me -[1195.38 --> 1202.98] you are lord of all -[1203.46 --> 1214.98] invite you to be seated -[1226.18 --> 1226.74] good morning -[1230.82 --> 1237.78] today's offerings are for langley emmanuel budget ministries and missions and today's special -[1237.78 --> 1245.94] offering is for union gospel missions ugm provides meals education and shelter for the homeless and -[1245.94 --> 1254.18] those struggling with addictions next sunday's special offering is for new ground which used to -[1254.18 --> 1262.82] be operation manna they help churches establish community ministries across canada and more info -[1262.82 --> 1268.02] on these ministries is in the bulletin and they have pretty good websites to look up -[1270.74 --> 1277.54] there's only one bag for the offering today and anything unmarked will go to the special offering -[1277.54 --> 1289.22] uh to verse today is proverbs 31 verse 9 open your mouth judge righteously defend the rights of the poor -[1289.22 --> 1290.74] blessed -[1296.74 --> 1300.98] onto venues -[1307.86 --> 1310.66] to address that -[1310.66 --> 1340.64] drums and d eminentes -[1340.66 --> 1351.30] That endeth my way, when sorrows like sea billows roam. -[1353.40 --> 1361.24] Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, -[1361.24 --> 1369.38] It is well, it is well with my soul. -[1369.38 --> 1376.88] It is well, it is well with my soul. -[1376.88 --> 1387.36] With my soul, it is well, it is well with my soul. -[1389.04 --> 1397.44] Though Satan should suffer, though trial should come, -[1397.44 --> 1403.94] That there's no assurance control. -[1405.94 --> 1415.00] That Christ has regarded my help, thus has saved, -[1415.00 --> 1422.50] And has shed his own blood for my soul. -[1422.50 --> 1431.00] It is well, it is well with my soul. -[1431.00 --> 1441.50] With my soul, it is well, it is well with my soul. -[1441.50 --> 1451.84] My sin, O the bliss of this glorious thought, -[1452.00 --> 1459.88] My sin, not in part, but the whole. -[1459.88 --> 1474.38] It is well, it is well with my soul. -[1474.38 --> 1480.88] O Lord, O my soul, it is well. -[1480.88 --> 1485.88] It is well with my soul. -[1485.88 --> 1506.38] O Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight, -[1506.38 --> 1514.88] The clouds be rolled back as a storm. -[1514.88 --> 1516.88] The clouds be rolled back as a storm. -[1516.88 --> 1524.88] The drought shall resound, and the clouds shall descend. -[1524.88 --> 1531.38] The clouds shall be rolled back as a storm. -[1531.38 --> 1535.38] The clouds shall be rolled back as a storm. -[1535.38 --> 1543.88] It is well, it is well with my soul. -[1543.88 --> 1552.38] It is well, it is well with my soul. -[1559.38 --> 1563.38] I would love to invite all of the kids forward. -[1563.52 --> 1565.88] You can come up here and join me at the front. -[1565.98 --> 1566.82] That would be lovely. -[1567.38 --> 1570.90] If any of you feel so willing, here comes some. -[1570.98 --> 1571.66] That's so good. -[1571.66 --> 1574.66] Come on up. -[1574.66 --> 1575.66] Come on up. -[1575.66 --> 1578.66] Sorry, Courtney, my voice is terribly loud. -[1578.66 --> 1581.66] Come on, join me up here. -[1581.66 --> 1583.66] Have a seat, have a seat. -[1583.66 --> 1586.66] How is everybody doing today? -[1586.66 --> 1589.66] What did you do yesterday? -[1589.66 --> 1590.66] Saturday? -[1590.66 --> 1594.66] Anything fun and exciting? -[1594.66 --> 1595.66] Yeah, Zoe? -[1595.66 --> 1598.66] Oh, that's fun. -[1598.66 --> 1599.66] You had a play date? -[1599.66 --> 1600.66] You went shopping with your mom? -[1600.66 --> 1601.66] Oh, very fun. -[1601.66 --> 1602.66] With Malachi? -[1602.66 --> 1603.66] Oh, was that exciting? -[1603.66 --> 1604.66] Yeah? -[1604.66 --> 1607.66] Anybody else do anything fun? -[1607.66 --> 1608.66] No? -[1608.66 --> 1609.66] Do you know what I did yesterday? -[1609.66 --> 1622.66] All day, I hung out in the sun with a whole bunch of youth at our youth day camp. -[1622.66 --> 1624.66] Doesn't that sound fun? -[1624.66 --> 1628.66] There's not very many youth out there today because I think I tired them out. -[1628.66 --> 1630.66] And guess where we did it? -[1630.66 --> 1631.66] We did it at some of your friends' house. -[1631.66 --> 1634.66] We went to Mr. and Mrs. Wynn's house. -[1634.66 --> 1639.66] And I don't see any of them here either because I think I tired those kids out too. -[1639.66 --> 1642.66] So we did a whole day and it was Olympic theme. -[1642.66 --> 1644.66] Could you guys watch the Olympics this year? -[1644.66 --> 1645.66] Did you see any of the Olympics? -[1645.66 --> 1646.66] It's pretty fun, right? -[1646.66 --> 1648.66] So we did an Olympic theme this year. -[1648.66 --> 1652.66] So we had four teams and they had to do all sorts of fun Olympic challenges. -[1652.66 --> 1654.66] So we had the COVID-lympics. -[1654.66 --> 1658.66] We had to slingshot hand sanitizer with masks. -[1658.66 --> 1660.66] We had food-lympics. -[1660.66 --> 1665.66] So we mixed up different foods in a cup and had to drink it and figure out what four foods were in there. -[1665.66 --> 1672.66] The hardest round was chocolate, pickles, and salt and vinegar chips. -[1673.66 --> 1674.66] They didn't quite... -[1674.66 --> 1677.66] Someone did eventually get it, but that was a hard round. -[1677.66 --> 1678.66] And guess which team won? -[1678.66 --> 1681.66] My team won. -[1681.66 --> 1684.66] Yeah, because I was keeping score. -[1684.66 --> 1686.66] Isn't that fun? -[1686.66 --> 1687.66] So we also talked about... -[1687.66 --> 1690.66] Did you know in the Bible they talk about races? -[1690.66 --> 1692.66] Not really the Olympics, but they talk about sports. -[1692.66 --> 1698.66] Paul says that we need to run this life like a race and we have to keep our eyes on the prize. -[1698.66 --> 1699.66] What do you think he means? -[1699.66 --> 1702.66] What's the prize do you think that Paul's talking about? -[1702.66 --> 1706.66] When we live this life, we have to keep looking at one thing. -[1706.66 --> 1707.66] What is that? -[1707.66 --> 1708.66] It's a person. -[1708.66 --> 1709.66] That's a hint. -[1709.66 --> 1710.66] Yeah. -[1710.66 --> 1711.66] Jesus. -[1711.66 --> 1712.66] That's right. -[1712.66 --> 1715.66] And we have to keep our eyes on Jesus and keep running towards him. -[1715.66 --> 1716.66] And so we talked about that too. -[1716.66 --> 1717.66] It was a very fun day. -[1717.66 --> 1725.66] So today we're going to go to children's worship time in a second and you're going to talk a little bit more about what it means to live seeking Jesus. -[1725.66 --> 1726.66] And so we're going to do that in a second. -[1726.66 --> 1731.66] But before we do that, let me pray and then we will do the kids blessing to the church. -[1731.66 --> 1733.66] And for those of you who don't know, I'll explain that too. -[1733.66 --> 1734.66] Okay? -[1734.66 --> 1736.66] So please bow your heads and then we'll do the kids blessing. -[1736.66 --> 1738.66] Father God, thank you so much for this day. -[1738.66 --> 1742.66] Thank you that we could come to church this morning and that we could be here as your body. -[1742.66 --> 1745.66] We could sing songs and that we could open up the Bible and learn more about you. -[1745.66 --> 1753.66] And as we go off to children's worship time and as some of us stay back here, we just pray that we will continue to learn more about you and what it is you are teaching us today. -[1753.66 --> 1755.66] So we pray this in your name. -[1755.66 --> 1756.66] Amen. -[1756.66 --> 1759.66] Okay, so in a second we're going to stand up and we're going to do the kids blessing. -[1759.66 --> 1761.66] And so I see there might be some new faces here. -[1761.66 --> 1766.66] What that means is we're going to stand up and we're going to look at the church and we're going to say, put our hands like this. -[1766.66 --> 1769.66] And then we're going to say, the Lord be with you. -[1769.66 --> 1771.66] And then they're going to reply and also with you. -[1771.66 --> 1772.66] Okay? -[1772.66 --> 1774.66] So let's stand up and we'll say it together. -[1774.66 --> 1775.66] And the church is going to do the same. -[1775.66 --> 1776.66] Let's look at them. -[1776.66 --> 1780.66] And then I'll say one, two, three, and then we'll say it together. -[1780.66 --> 1781.66] You ready? -[1781.66 --> 1782.66] One, two, three. -[1782.66 --> 1787.66] One, two, three. -[1787.66 --> 1788.66] All right. -[1788.66 --> 1791.66] If you are in kindergarten or younger, we've got children's worship time for you. -[1791.66 --> 1793.66] So you can head to that class right now. -[1793.66 --> 1796.66] And if you are older than that, then you can head to sit back with your parents. -[1796.66 --> 1797.66] So I'm going to pay for the parents. -[1797.66 --> 1798.66] 찬icumals to work. -[1798.66 --> 1799.66] And then if you are ready to take things together. -[1799.66 --> 1802.66] So we need to make it bigger you know, past theääd achieved at the same time. -[1806.66 --> 1808.66] Davidнуть then, when they're riskier. -[1808.66 --> 1809.66] And then there's going to be people with handing people meinem Christ. -[1809.66 --> 1811.66] He's older than the family minister that's ever gave Aad. -[1811.66 --> 1813.66] He's also very icononic. -[1813.66 --> 1815.66] And then he added to home stage you said to them. -[1815.66 --> 1845.64] Thank you. -[1845.66 --> 1848.30] A couple of announcements before we go to our congregational prayer this morning. -[1849.32 --> 1858.70] First is that Annalise and Matt Birkenpass had a baby boy this past Thursday, and his name is Reuben Theodore. -[1862.94 --> 1867.42] And Annalise and Reuben are back at home and doing very well. -[1867.42 --> 1878.84] The second announcement is that next Sunday, we will be celebrating the Lord's Supper. -[1879.48 --> 1882.74] So take some time this week to prepare yourself for that. -[1883.14 --> 1887.08] And if your children are participating, take time to prepare them for that as well. -[1887.08 --> 1891.02] Let's go to God in prayer. -[1893.02 --> 1899.76] Father in heaven, as we come to you in prayer this morning, we echo the words written in Psalm 46. -[1899.76 --> 1905.48] God is our refuge and our strength, an ever-present help in trouble. -[1906.80 --> 1912.46] Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea. -[1913.42 --> 1918.14] Though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging, -[1918.78 --> 1925.64] there is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. -[1925.64 --> 1927.56] God is within her. -[1928.44 --> 1929.52] She will not fall. -[1930.44 --> 1933.12] God will help her at the break of day. -[1933.96 --> 1935.18] Nations are in uproar. -[1935.78 --> 1936.56] Kingdoms fall. -[1937.78 --> 1940.18] He lifts his voice and the earth melts. -[1941.52 --> 1942.98] The Lord Almighty is with us. -[1943.40 --> 1945.78] The God of Jacob is our fortress. -[1947.76 --> 1950.24] Lord, thank you for the words of the psalmist. -[1950.24 --> 1955.82] And we ask that you enable us to have this kind of unwavering confidence in you. -[1957.52 --> 1963.44] Lord, we give you thanks with Annalise and Matt, with the birth of their son. -[1964.42 --> 1966.12] What a tremendous blessing that is, Lord. -[1966.26 --> 1973.68] And we just ask that you bless them as he's welcomed into their household and bless their household. -[1974.98 --> 1977.90] Just thank you for that lovely gift of new life. -[1977.90 --> 1984.44] Father, we lift up the Miles family to you after Mike passed away recently. -[1985.40 --> 1992.38] We ask that each family member will experience your comforting peace in the days, weeks, and months ahead. -[1994.30 --> 1999.16] This week, we saw the terrible situation which is unfolding in Afghanistan. -[2000.62 --> 2004.86] Be with those who fear for their lives and are desperate to leave that country. -[2004.86 --> 2012.62] Although the probability of leaving appears remote, we ask that you provide some way for them to leave. -[2019.28 --> 2020.20] Devastating earthquake. -[2021.16 --> 2023.64] The people of this country have suffered so much. -[2024.44 --> 2028.88] We ask for your blessing on the work of relief agencies, such as World Renew, -[2028.88 --> 2033.62] who are working there to bring food, shelter, and hope to the Haitians. -[2034.82 --> 2037.54] Help us to give generously to support this work. -[2039.48 --> 2044.94] We thank you for the cooler and wetter weather, which is having a positive impact on the forest fires in this province. -[2045.98 --> 2048.84] Watch over all those who are actively fighting these fires. -[2048.84 --> 2055.88] And grant your blessing to those who have been displaced or have lost homes or businesses to the fires. -[2058.20 --> 2063.44] And as we head to a national election, we ask for your blessing on that process. -[2064.60 --> 2068.90] Raise up leaders who recognize your authority and seek to do your will. -[2068.90 --> 2076.64] Watch over those who are shut in, isolated, alone, or suffering from depression. -[2078.08 --> 2080.40] Walk beside them every day. -[2081.06 --> 2083.98] And give that we may reach out in meaningful ways to them. -[2086.94 --> 2090.88] Father, as we start a new church here, we ask for your blessing on the ministries of this church. -[2091.74 --> 2093.86] Thank you for the many volunteers who serve here. -[2093.86 --> 2097.88] And we ask that you strengthen and encourage them in their service. -[2098.82 --> 2105.90] If there are vacant positions in any of the ministries, we ask, Lord, that you would raise up people who are willing to serve in that capacity. -[2107.48 --> 2114.60] We also ask that you grant the leadership of this church wisdom to discern your will for this church and the courage to act on it. -[2116.30 --> 2118.00] Watch over those who are on vacation. -[2119.08 --> 2120.32] Give them traveling mercies. -[2120.82 --> 2122.96] And grant them a time of rest and renewal. -[2124.54 --> 2127.84] Bless our students and teachers as they prepare for a new school year. -[2128.56 --> 2131.08] Keep them safe when they return to the classroom environment. -[2132.82 --> 2139.58] This morning, we thank you that Tim and Charity could join us and share their ministry with the indigenous people of Shushwap. -[2140.50 --> 2142.82] And we ask that you bless their ministry. -[2142.82 --> 2149.74] As we go to today's message, we ask that you plant the truth of your word in our hearts. -[2151.28 --> 2162.76] We ask that through your spirit, we may lead this service being renewed, encouraged, and equipped to reflect the glory of Christ in all that we do and say, amen. -[2162.76 --> 2162.86] Amen. -[2162.86 --> 2162.92] Amen. -[2162.92 --> 2162.98] Amen. -[2162.98 --> 2164.92] Amen. -[2164.92 --> 2166.92] Amen. -[2166.92 --> 2167.00] Amen. -[2167.00 --> 2167.04] Amen. -[2167.04 --> 2169.04] Amen. -[2169.04 --> 2171.04] Amen. -[2171.04 --> 2171.08] Amen. -[2171.08 --> 2172.80] Amen. -[2172.82 --> 2202.80] Amen. -[2202.82 --> 2204.82] Amen. -[2204.82 --> 2208.82] Amen. -[2208.82 --> 2210.82] Amen. -[2210.82 --> 2212.82] Amen. -[2212.82 --> 2214.82] Amen. -[2214.82 --> 2216.82] Amen. -[2216.82 --> 2218.82] Amen. -[2218.82 --> 2220.82] Amen. -[2220.82 --> 2222.82] Amen. -[2222.82 --> 2224.82] Amen. -[2224.82 --> 2230.38] As these guys are bringing out this last item, let's thank them for their work. -[2230.38 --> 2230.82] Amen. -[2230.82 --> 2231.82] Amen. -[2231.82 --> 2235.82] Amen. -[2235.82 --> 2237.82] I'm done. -[2237.82 --> 2255.54] shouted from -[2255.54 --> 2261.10] solicited your questions and then we've spent the summer addressing them as they've come. -[2262.22 --> 2266.14] Tim and Charity were scheduled to come earlier in the year but because of the forest fire -[2266.14 --> 2271.06] situation they were unable to do that and then gratefully we've been able to reschedule -[2271.06 --> 2275.00] to today. And so Tim and Charity I'm going to invite you guys to come to the front. -[2276.44 --> 2279.34] I didn't clear this with you yet but the love seat is yours. -[2281.56 --> 2284.18] So control yourselves. -[2285.54 --> 2295.72] By way of introduction to our conversation this morning I just want to reiterate the fact that -[2295.72 --> 2302.74] we believe here that it's really important to have hard conversations and to address -[2302.74 --> 2310.30] hard questions. And I know that oftentimes when we do these teaching series, is it awkward if you're -[2310.30 --> 2313.16] sitting behind me because it's weird when you're standing behind me? -[2315.54 --> 2324.72] We know that addressing these questions can often lead to asking more questions and that's a good -[2324.72 --> 2330.68] thing. We want to encourage that. And so if you have any questions following this service or any of our -[2330.68 --> 2334.86] other services you can email me at pastorchris.ca. -[2334.86 --> 2338.86] Were you expecting something different? -[2338.86 --> 2342.82] I watch the services I miss. I know what goes on here. -[2346.02 --> 2351.86] But in all honesty please do email me or reach out, grab me after the service or any one of us -[2351.86 --> 2356.38] on pastoral staff here. We want to engage in your conversations and questions. -[2357.78 --> 2358.86] I'm going to sit down now. -[2363.54 --> 2369.46] Okay. So for those of you who don't know Tim and Charity, we're going to let them introduce themselves -[2369.46 --> 2377.22] in just a moment. Before we do that, I want to sort of state the reality of the situation -[2377.22 --> 2384.00] and the circumstance that we find ourselves in. So the question that we are addressing and that we -[2384.00 --> 2389.54] are going to spend some time reflecting on together has to do with the history of Christianity -[2389.54 --> 2395.94] in relationship to the indigenous population, primarily here in Canada, but we know that globally -[2395.94 --> 2401.50] it always hasn't been a good opportunity and a good representation of the values of Jesus. -[2401.50 --> 2407.92] In Canada, we have our own history with residential schools. And so we want to enter into this -[2407.92 --> 2414.36] conversation about how are we supposed to engage in indigenous ministry? How are we supposed to, -[2414.50 --> 2422.32] as Christians, relate to the history of residential schools and the terrible heartbreak that surrounds -[2422.32 --> 2429.52] that for our indigenous family members and citizens here in our country? -[2429.52 --> 2440.24] Some of you recall that at the beginning of the summer, the bodies of 215 children were discovered at the -[2440.24 --> 2451.66] Kamloops Indian School from the Tukumloops to Sakepwem First Nation. A few weeks later, right on the heels of that, -[2451.66 --> 2458.10] almost 750 unmarked graves were found at the Kawasis First Nation in Saskatchewan. -[2458.10 --> 2465.50] And really, if you've been following this history and paying attention to the broader conversation, -[2465.90 --> 2471.14] that shouldn't surprise us because the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which was something -[2471.14 --> 2475.68] commissioned by our government many years ago and happened in conversation with the indigenous -[2475.68 --> 2482.82] population, already stated that there are unmarked graves and there are bodies that will be found if -[2482.82 --> 2487.02] we were willing to look. And until recently, we haven't been that willing to look. -[2490.14 --> 2497.28] And our heart, rightly, breaks in stories like this. And most of us can't even begin to imagine -[2497.28 --> 2503.00] what that experience is like for the community of the indigenous population. -[2503.00 --> 2511.72] Additionally, you have what came out of that, right, in the so-called burn it all down movement, -[2511.72 --> 2520.46] which for some people had the stated goal of what's called decolonization, but which for others just -[2520.46 --> 2528.28] simply led to the opportunism and the burning of vandalism of over 45 churches since those children's -[2528.28 --> 2534.20] bodies were found in Kamloops. In fact, there's a connection to our church in that some of you -[2534.20 --> 2540.34] know that the Egyptian Orthodox Church that was burned down around here was the one which the Murad -[2540.34 --> 2544.84] family, which is one of our refugee sponsorship families, they worshipped there with their Christian -[2544.84 --> 2553.20] community. The point is, of course, is that all of this, right, from our heartbreak at the injustice -[2553.20 --> 2561.20] to the way people respond in the present matters. And it is important for us to have discussions around -[2561.20 --> 2567.68] this. It's important for us to be engaging in these sorts of conversations. I have a colleague, -[2567.68 --> 2577.88] her name is Shannon Perez. She is part of the Sayasi Dene First Nation from Winnipeg. And she says that -[2577.88 --> 2587.08] we all live downstream of these histories. And so we all have a responsibility to live well within them -[2587.08 --> 2598.04] together. When this first happened with the bodies found in the Kamloops, I did a pastor study video -[2598.04 --> 2605.06] on our YouTube page. And you are invited to search for that and to follow up to that. We go into some of -[2605.06 --> 2609.54] the theological principles and realities behind discerning that we're going to hit on some of -[2609.54 --> 2615.40] that today, but we're also going to hear a more personal story and a more personal engagement with -[2615.40 --> 2621.74] this reality. And so with that introduction and setting of the stage, I want to introduce -[2621.74 --> 2628.52] some of you for the first time. Others have met them before, but this is Tim and Charity Johnson. -[2628.52 --> 2634.16] This is Charity, and that's Tim, if that wasn't clear. And they work with the North American -[2634.16 --> 2641.50] Indigenous Ministries called NAME here in BC in the Shuswap area. And so Tim and Charity, thank you, -[2641.50 --> 2645.64] first of all, for being here. And I'm so excited that we could do this in person and live and that -[2645.64 --> 2651.68] we could make that work with everything. Can you start by introducing yourselves a little bit? -[2652.14 --> 2658.94] Tell us about NAME, but also we had to reschedule this because of the wildfires in your area. -[2658.94 --> 2664.62] Is there anything that you can share with us about that that we might be able to pray for and impact -[2664.62 --> 2672.86] on your community as well by way of introduction? Okay. Quite a quiet tip. Tim Johnson, Risk West. -[2673.28 --> 2681.62] It means hello, everybody. My name is Tim Johnson. And my wife, Charity, and I, we've been involved in -[2681.62 --> 2688.64] Native Ministry for the last, like, I've been involved in Native Ministry for the last 20 years. -[2690.46 --> 2698.76] And so we've been involved with it full time for the last about 10 years. And it's been a blessing. -[2699.44 --> 2707.90] So it's been an amazing people group to be able to work with. But at the same time, like, we, -[2707.90 --> 2712.26] so one of the things I want to canvas right off the bat is I don't have all the answers, -[2712.94 --> 2718.14] especially as a guy who has, like, Dutch descent, like, I'm not going to be able to be the voice of -[2718.14 --> 2724.28] the people. But we can speak from where we've, like, the conversations we've had in the community, -[2724.42 --> 2730.28] the conversations we've had with elders, with the youth, with all the people that we work with, -[2730.28 --> 2737.90] like a lot of the community that we call pretty much family. So it's, it's been definitely trying -[2737.90 --> 2744.14] with, with all the wildfires, we were kind of on the edge of, like, an evacuation alert the last time -[2744.14 --> 2749.40] that we were wanting to come out here. So then we were like, well, if the fire, if the wind blows a -[2749.40 --> 2754.54] certain direction, I was like, then it's going to be really risky coming down. So that's why we were, -[2754.54 --> 2759.88] we had to, we had to postpone, but I'm so glad that we were able to make it out and, and actually come -[2759.88 --> 2766.36] and speak on, on some of this heavy stuff. Because it's, it's, it is, it's a heavy subject matter, -[2766.36 --> 2772.80] but it's definitely, definitely a conversation that's good to have. So, yeah, did you have? -[2774.16 --> 2783.18] My background is, I come from Saskatchewan, in Canada, born and raised. And the, the way things look -[2783.18 --> 2790.14] back in Saskatchewan with relations, um, with those who are living on reserve is, um, a little bit -[2790.14 --> 2795.92] different than here, but there are a lot of similarities. Um, one thing that we practice -[2795.92 --> 2801.64] when we travel out towards, um, visiting my family is figuring out whose territory we're on. -[2802.80 --> 2807.12] Because, uh, it's easy to teach the kids that we're going through Alberta and then Saskatchewan -[2807.12 --> 2813.46] in the Manitoba comes next. And then something, um, that's just a part of our reality now is learning -[2813.46 --> 2821.46] whose territory, um, whose land, um, and unceded territory we're on. And we got help because our, -[2821.46 --> 2829.74] um, operations director in name actually lives in Langley here. And so he mentioned it overlaps with the -[2829.74 --> 2835.58] unceded traditional and ancestral lands of, and forgive me for the way I'm pronouncing these, -[2835.58 --> 2841.92] stories. Sometimes it's, uh, a bit difficult, but it's the effort that counts. Um, Kwantlen, Musqueam, -[2841.92 --> 2844.32] Kat, Katesi, you go for it. -[2844.32 --> 2854.54] Okay. So Kwantlen, Musqueam, Katesi, Semyamu, Tswassen, Kwaiokwet, and Kwikwetlem people. -[2854.54 --> 2863.58] Um, and so name, name has been around for, name's been around for, oh, I don't know, a long time. Um, -[2863.58 --> 2869.88] and I should know these numbers, but I don't. Um, but anyways, it's, uh, it started out as a marine -[2869.88 --> 2874.60] medical mission. So what they originally started doing was they started going in boats and then -[2874.60 --> 2880.10] they would go all the way up the coast of BC and they would just start, uh, just kind of treating -[2880.10 --> 2885.36] people and just trying to love on communities. And, uh, and so they did a lot of medical sort of -[2885.36 --> 2890.60] outreach, but then through that, they also got the opportunity to be, be able to share the gospel, -[2890.60 --> 2895.74] which is a really cool opportunity. And then it's just kind of morphed after that to figuring -[2895.74 --> 2901.94] out ways of kind of moving more inland and seeing how we can kind of implement. Uh, so a lot of the -[2901.94 --> 2907.68] stuff that Charity and I do, we do a lot of stuff with youth, uh, but it's not the, it's not the -[2907.68 --> 2912.02] narrowest, uh, part of our scope. It was nice hearing Kevin and all the different Olympics that -[2912.02 --> 2917.30] they had, cause that's a lot of the stuff that we do, which is a lot of fun. Um, but yeah, so it's just, -[2917.30 --> 2922.88] it's a matter of engaging the youth with all these different fun and really odd, uh, activities -[2922.88 --> 2927.88] sometimes. Uh, but at the same time using that as a tool and a catalyst to be able to share the gospel. -[2927.88 --> 2934.28] Uh, so the big thing for us has been just developing that relationship first and just loving the -[2934.28 --> 2939.78] community first. Uh, and then, then I feel like then you have some, a spot to be able to speak from. -[2939.78 --> 2948.18] Um, so yeah. And, and, and like, like we were saying before, um, that because of the, or because -[2948.18 --> 2954.14] of the, the history with residential schools, we are very, very gentle with how we come in with the -[2954.14 --> 2960.74] gospel. Um, we are, we're not the type that will just come in and say, well, this about your culture -[2960.74 --> 2965.52] is bad and you need to change this. Like, cause it's like, no, that's terrible. Like that's, -[2965.52 --> 2970.66] so we, we come in, we came in as learners first and foremost, we started learning the language. -[2970.66 --> 2975.90] We started learning about the culture. Uh, and man, there's so many different things that, -[2976.04 --> 2984.76] um, just swap over easily with, uh, with, with our, with our faith as well. Um, so there was some -[2984.76 --> 2988.82] stuff that was an easy switch over. There's some stuff where it's like, okay, now we got to figure -[2988.82 --> 2994.72] out, is this redeemable? Is this something that can be, that can, that can glorify God still through -[2994.72 --> 3000.36] these different things? And, uh, so it's been a, it's been a really neat journey. Um, and it's -[3000.36 --> 3005.02] been also really cool to see how we can encourage kind of the first nations Christians as well -[3005.02 --> 3011.26] around us. Um, but yeah, yeah. And I, and I think, I think the total number of bodies that have been -[3011.26 --> 3019.64] found in Canada is over like 5,000, I think now. Um, and I was talking to, it was interesting when, -[3019.64 --> 3024.62] when the news first came out, I started having, it was, it was a, it was a blessing and a curse. -[3024.74 --> 3028.42] Like it was a curse in the fact that it was like, that's terrible. That should have never happened. -[3029.02 --> 3033.90] Uh, but it was a blessing in the sense that it was like, okay, now that it's out on the table, -[3033.90 --> 3040.38] let's talk about it. Uh, and it kind of opened up some wounds for some people. Um, but at the same -[3040.38 --> 3047.42] time, it also gave the opportunity to be able to move some past, past a few traumas and past some stuff -[3047.42 --> 3053.12] that has happened in the, in the past as well. And, and to start this conversation. Um, but it was -[3053.12 --> 3058.34] interesting because, uh, I started talking to some of the elders and I was like, how does this hit you? -[3058.50 --> 3065.70] Like, how does this affect you? And a lot of them were like, they're like, it sucks. Like, they're like, -[3065.70 --> 3071.92] we, we definitely, uh, are hurt by it, but they're like, we, we always knew it happened. Like, they're -[3071.92 --> 3078.56] like, if you talk to any of the elders, they, they have multiple stories of horrific tragedies of stuff -[3078.56 --> 3084.08] that happened in the residential schools. Uh, and, and then they also have lots of stories of like, how -[3084.08 --> 3089.82] all of a sudden so-and-so just wasn't there the next day. And so they would start asking questions -[3089.82 --> 3095.08] like, what happened to Johnny? Like, and they're like, and they never got any answers or they would get beat -[3095.08 --> 3100.98] if they started asking questions like that. Um, so it was, it was, there was, there was a lot of, -[3101.28 --> 3107.10] but, and I think it was also kind of, uh, refreshing for a lot of the elders to be able to have that, -[3107.72 --> 3111.82] to have that news out. And it was, it was an interesting thing because they were like, -[3112.54 --> 3117.82] one of the things that continually came up was, we've been telling everybody this for years. -[3118.42 --> 3122.46] They're like that. And that was the big thing is they're like, we've been saying this, -[3122.46 --> 3128.72] like, this has been our conversation that we've had, but it, it, and it's kind of interesting when -[3128.72 --> 3136.02] you look at it from a North American Western white perspective. It's like, it's not until we have -[3136.02 --> 3141.42] hard evidence and facts that all of a sudden we're like, oh shoot, this was a bad thing. And it was -[3141.42 --> 3145.48] like, and that's when it, I think that's when it set in for a lot of people and they're like, oh no, -[3145.56 --> 3150.82] what do we do with this now? Uh, so it's been, uh, that's been a good thing is just seeing how many -[3150.82 --> 3155.56] people are like, okay, now that we have been presented with this information and, and these -[3155.56 --> 3161.58] tragedies, how do we, how do we move forward from here? Uh, and so that's been kind of the cool, -[3161.96 --> 3168.06] the, the neat, um, the neat journey that we've been on. Um, and then one of the things that I was -[3168.06 --> 3174.00] going to say was, uh, just about like the church burning side of things, like that, that was a cool -[3174.00 --> 3179.72] conversation I had with some of the, some, some other people in the community. Um, just where, -[3179.94 --> 3185.26] cause I was like, cause they, they actually brought it up and they're like, what they're doing right -[3185.26 --> 3189.60] now with the whole like church burning thing, they're like, that's not our way. And they're -[3189.60 --> 3195.30] like, I would be very surprised if it was actually our people that were doing it because they're like, -[3195.36 --> 3200.20] that's not our way. And, and I was like, and, and actually it's come out in the news a lot where -[3200.20 --> 3206.30] it's, it's not even first nations people that are doing it. Uh, but it's actually other, other, -[3206.30 --> 3212.88] uh, uh, other backgrounds and other races that are acting on behalf of the first nations. And, -[3212.88 --> 3218.32] and I mean, I get it. People are, people are angry. People are worked up. Um, but yeah, -[3218.42 --> 3222.30] it was interesting to hear from the community themselves. They're like, that's not our way. -[3222.36 --> 3228.48] That's not the way we go about things. Uh, and even one of the ladies was like the whole forest fire -[3228.48 --> 3233.40] situation right now. She's like, that might be the creator's way of kind of purging, -[3233.74 --> 3238.66] purging things right now and kind of doing a cleanse on, in the community or in the, -[3238.74 --> 3243.56] in the area. And I was like, well, it's, it's an interesting, uh, perspective for sure. -[3244.84 --> 3251.64] And I just wanted to add, I think the biggest thing too is just, um, when you do hear those stories, -[3251.64 --> 3258.84] you listen with a very, very attentive ear to their story with compassion and not with pity. -[3260.06 --> 3264.92] Um, we were just hanging out at the beach the one day and there is a story that there was the man who -[3264.92 --> 3269.06] was sitting on the stairs and we had no idea who he was, but we were just all having fun in the lake -[3269.06 --> 3276.64] and in the water. And he's like, man, I pity you guys. And I was like, who are you? And then he just -[3276.64 --> 3282.68] got up to leave and he's like, oh, I pity you guys. And we're like, is this a there? And they -[3282.68 --> 3288.46] were even just kind of baffled and trying to decide, is this a, is this a good or is this, -[3288.62 --> 3294.86] are you meaning this for malintent? Where are you? So I just think that, um, if you do come across -[3294.86 --> 3299.42] first nations people and they're going to share their stories, they all come from different walks. -[3299.42 --> 3305.26] Like they all have their own different story to tell, just listen with understanding and compassion -[3305.26 --> 3310.22] and then, um, build relationship from there. If you want to carry on. -[3314.22 --> 3320.34] You've, uh, started, uh, alluding to it a little bit, but I wonder if you can, -[3320.34 --> 3327.50] especially in the, the immediate aftermath of the discovery of the 215 bodies in your -[3327.50 --> 3332.72] community, um, what did your ministry look like, uh, in those moments? What was that like? I know -[3332.72 --> 3338.32] charity, we talked briefly and, uh, you had mentioned explicitly that as a mother, right, -[3338.36 --> 3342.68] your experience was a little bit different than even Tim, as you were engaging in this. And so maybe -[3342.68 --> 3349.06] both of you can just take a couple minutes and address that. Yeah. So, uh, a big thing was, uh, -[3349.06 --> 3356.14] we actually partnered with, um, the band, uh, some of the local bands in the area and they had a -[3356.14 --> 3360.34] walking our spirits home sort of thing. It's kind of a memorial thing where we walked from -[3360.34 --> 3366.62] the Kamloops residential school back to the reserve and back to some of the communities. -[3368.06 --> 3374.78] And, uh, and it was, uh, it was, uh, it was a really powerful, uh, amazing experience. We were able to, -[3374.78 --> 3380.76] uh, but charity and I both were able to, uh, to volunteer and help, uh, do, do some driving and -[3380.76 --> 3386.38] our kids were able to walk in it as well and to be able to support the community, uh, in that way. -[3386.38 --> 3391.00] Uh, and so that's, that's, that was a big thing is for us is we've just been sitting there and we've -[3391.00 --> 3397.50] just been like, we're here for you. Like we care. Uh, and, and it's coming to that whole, like, um, -[3397.50 --> 3403.40] recognizing, recognizing that that happened. And I think there's a lot of, there's a lot of, uh, -[3404.20 --> 3409.16] there's a lot of restoration that can come from even just the whole, like, recognizing that it -[3409.16 --> 3415.54] happened, being like, that's terrible that that happened to you. Um, and, uh, and, and for us, -[3415.54 --> 3421.52] it's been, it's been just, uh, and it's also opened up a lot of different conversations. Um, there's a lot -[3421.52 --> 3426.34] of times where people were like, is it sketchy? Like, is it, or is it hard to be where you guys are at? -[3426.34 --> 3432.66] And I was like, man, like it's, if anything, it just opened up more conversations of like, -[3433.32 --> 3439.16] um, I had a talk with an elder and he was, uh, he was telling me some of the stories of some of the -[3439.16 --> 3446.10] stuff that happened, uh, in the residential school. And it's, it was, it was, it was really graphic and -[3446.10 --> 3452.48] it was really just super disturbing. And he's like, Tim, he's like, you know, the only thing that can, -[3452.48 --> 3458.38] that comes to my mind, like the only word that comes to my mind is evil. And I was like, dude, -[3458.42 --> 3463.18] I totally agree with you. I was like, I am totally on board. I was like, what they did was wrong. -[3463.56 --> 3469.08] I was like a hundred percent. And, uh, and I was like, and the interesting thing is, is I said, -[3469.14 --> 3474.64] they call themselves Christians. But I said, if you look at what a Christian is, I said, Jesus boils -[3474.64 --> 3480.06] it down to two things. He said, he said, it's somebody who loves God as he's, it's somebody who loves -[3480.06 --> 3485.64] God and loves others. I was like, it just kind of boils down to that. I said, so those people that -[3485.64 --> 3494.30] were beating, abusing, raping, like, uh, I was like, were those people, were those people being -[3494.30 --> 3498.60] loving and like, were they loving God and were they loving others? And they're like, he's like, no. -[3498.82 --> 3503.60] And I was like, those people weren't Christians. I was like, those were imposters. And so, and it's -[3503.60 --> 3509.00] been interesting too, because there's been even more conversations coming out about some of the -[3509.00 --> 3514.96] people that, uh, ran some of the residential schools, uh, being that they, that they just -[3514.96 --> 3520.34] got like a work abroad sort of, um, uh, ticket. And they were like, Hey, sweet, I get to work -[3520.34 --> 3524.66] in a foreign country. This is going to be neat. And, uh, and they weren't even really part of -[3524.66 --> 3528.70] the church. And it was, it was interesting to see how there's a lot of people who slipped -[3528.70 --> 3534.58] in that definitely shouldn't have been there. Um, and, but I think just, uh, just having those -[3534.58 --> 3540.40] conversations and just opening it up, uh, which is, it's, it's opened up a lot of really good -[3540.40 --> 3544.18] ways to be able to share the gospel and to be able to share what, who, who a Christian -[3544.18 --> 3547.78] is and what, um, a Christ follower actually looks like. -[3548.84 --> 3554.78] Yeah, we have a beautiful opportunity to, opportunity to be Christ representatives here -[3554.78 --> 3560.92] on earth. And I just hope and pray that we all take that to heart and, um, and, and, and -[3560.92 --> 3569.68] do it with all, all our, all our effort. Um, I was going to respond with two things. One -[3569.68 --> 3573.98] is what a counselor said, but I can't remember word for word because I'm not a detail person. -[3575.84 --> 3582.78] Um, and then the other thing was, um, just as representatives. Um, so when we were on that -[3582.78 --> 3590.90] walk, um, you can tell from the trauma from the past, a lot of people, um, and, um, and, um, -[3590.90 --> 3597.90] people's, um, uh, guards go up or what, how should I describe it when RCMP were helping. Um, -[3597.90 --> 3604.90] and, uh, and I still know it's still triggers from the trauma from the background. Ah, they're -[3604.90 --> 3610.90] here, they're here. What are they doing? And they had every good intention for them and to -[3610.90 --> 3617.90] just love on them and help, um, you know, prepare the way, like the roadway before them and stuff -[3617.90 --> 3622.90] like that. And just to make sure that it was, uh, you know, if anybody wanted to, you know, -[3622.90 --> 3628.90] counter attack or whatever, they were there to support, um, the efforts that were being -[3628.90 --> 3634.90] made there, but it was really, really, um, eyeopening to see, yeah, those triggers pop -[3634.90 --> 3640.90] up. And then just a, quite a few conversations just with friends back home, just charity. I -[3640.90 --> 3647.90] have a five year old, I have a, that forced assimilation. They're like, I couldn't live -[3647.90 --> 3655.90] with that. Like forcing, you know, taking your children away and that's big time hit home. -[3655.90 --> 3662.90] Um, and so we, as women, um, have a crying session and they are still very much guard their children -[3662.90 --> 3671.90] a lot. And the one council member cried before her people at the end of the walk when we got -[3671.90 --> 3682.90] to the gym for a, um, just a gathering time. Um, um, she, um, said, I, I am striving very -[3682.90 --> 3689.90] hard to put a stop to the generational, um, trauma, but it was, she said it in another way -[3689.90 --> 3696.90] too, or I want to get past this. I want to get past this. And then I was in a situation one evening -[3696.90 --> 3704.90] with a lady from the reserve and on our drive about, and it was a kind of a crisis situation. -[3704.90 --> 3711.90] I just looked at her and I said, well, what do you do when, like, what do you have anything? Like, -[3711.90 --> 3718.90] do you have anything to, I have Jesus to rest on when I, my heart is so troubled and stirred up. -[3718.90 --> 3723.90] And I was like, let's sing, let's pray. Can you pray? I don't know how to pray. -[3723.90 --> 3728.90] So there's a lot of things that there's a lot of, um, situations where, yeah, they just don't -[3728.90 --> 3734.90] have any foundational grounding that we all have. Like, like the fact that we have the body of Christ -[3734.90 --> 3740.90] and we have Jesus is just such a gift to be able to give, especially in moments of crisis -[3740.90 --> 3745.90] and devastation. I'm glad we have that. -[3745.90 --> 3748.90] Thank you. -[3748.90 --> 3755.90] Um, so there's a couple of themes that I want to pick up on and maybe Charity will start with you. -[3755.90 --> 3761.90] Um, it's something that you don't have to answer necessarily, but it's something I'm highlighting as I listen. -[3761.90 --> 3766.90] Um, I shared with you in, in advance of this, a quote from Ray Aldred. -[3766.90 --> 3770.90] Ray Aldred is at the Vancouver School of Theology. -[3770.90 --> 3773.90] He's the director of indigenous studies there. -[3773.90 --> 3778.90] Uh, and he said, when a nation state thinks it can bring heaven down to earth, -[3778.90 --> 3781.90] it only ends up bringing hell up. -[3781.90 --> 3788.90] And as I listen to, especially Charity, as you just reflected, some of the trauma and conversations, -[3788.90 --> 3798.90] um, part of me wants to say, well, God bless you and thank you for entering into that hell of trauma with, with people. -[3798.90 --> 3810.90] Um, I wonder how, do you, do you have a word for us and how we might, uh, do that as well when it comes to the, -[3810.90 --> 3815.90] when it comes to the first nations people? -[3815.90 --> 3823.90] Um, there's a, I mean, I should have probably, but there's a section in this book that we want to gift you guys with. -[3823.90 --> 3825.90] It's on page 27. -[3825.90 --> 3830.90] Um, I wonder if I can just find that, uh, where I want to go. -[3830.90 --> 3839.90] I don't want to lose my train of thought, but, um, I'm just going to read it just really quick, um, where we can go with it. -[3839.90 --> 3843.90] Um, where we can go with it, with those, with those traumas and stuff like that. -[3843.90 --> 3845.90] And it's just a starting point, just a starting point. -[3845.90 --> 3850.90] But I really believe the Holy Spirit will just move in you and speak through you when the time comes. -[3850.90 --> 3853.90] Um, um, if need be, right. -[3853.90 --> 3857.90] But the biggest thing is just listen and listening to those traumas. -[3857.90 --> 3870.90] And sometimes it's just healing when they can just get it out and then you just hear it and then pray for them quietly, like, you know, or just say, um, thanks for sharing that. -[3870.90 --> 3876.90] And then I'm going to, I'm going to be praying and meditating on that, you know, for a while longer here. -[3876.90 --> 3883.90] And then maybe high hopes that, you know, maybe we can meet again so that you affirm also like what they're saying. -[3883.90 --> 3888.90] But, um, I mean, this is Tim's interest. -[3888.90 --> 3889.90] It's interesting too. -[3889.90 --> 3893.90] Like Tim has some, some, um, music he listens to. -[3893.90 --> 3897.90] And it's, um, singers that talk about our defense of things. -[3897.90 --> 3906.90] Like why do we have to, um, like we didn't take part in all that stuff, but we live, you know, with the after effects of it, right. -[3906.90 --> 3913.90] Um, and, um, some conversations need to be had, but some situations are so sensitive. -[3913.90 --> 3919.90] So we need to really also use discernment in a lot of, um, like if you're ever approached kind of thing. -[3919.90 --> 3925.90] But page 27 of this book we want to gift you guys with says, this is not an Aboriginal problem. -[3925.90 --> 3927.90] This is a Canadian problem. -[3927.90 --> 3935.90] Because at the same time, the Aboriginal people were being demeaned in schools and their culture and language were being taken away from them. -[3935.90 --> 3938.90] And they were being told that they were inferior. -[3938.90 --> 3945.90] They were pagans, that they were heathens and savages, and that they were unworthy of being respected. -[3945.90 --> 3953.90] That very same message was being given to the non-Aboriginal children in public schools as well. -[3953.90 --> 3958.90] They need to know that history includes them. -[3958.90 --> 3964.90] And I noticed that over the years, a lot of what Tim and I do too is bringing them into community. -[3964.90 --> 3968.90] Um, they're just on the reserve and we bring them into the community. -[3968.90 --> 3971.90] And we say, well, this is for you. -[3971.90 --> 3978.90] This, you know, I hope that you can, you know, feel comfortable and be comfortable in these surroundings and in these situations. -[3978.90 --> 3986.90] And we're really just trying to prepare the youth and, and show them, yeah, how to be more involved in community. -[3986.90 --> 3989.90] And then one other thing, but I think I just lost it. -[3989.90 --> 3991.90] Sorry, you guys. -[3991.90 --> 3995.90] I'll probably come up in conversation later on down the road. -[3995.90 --> 3996.90] Thank you. -[3996.90 --> 4007.90] Uh, and Tim, for you, you mentioned, um, having to name, uh, previous in encounters with Christianity or with Christian mission as imposters. -[4007.90 --> 4013.90] Um, and I wonder, uh, gonna get you to reflect on a quote. -[4013.90 --> 4015.90] Uh, this is a quote from Leslie Newbegin. -[4015.90 --> 4020.90] Uh, Leslie Newbegin, uh, Leslie Newbegin was a missionary to India from England. -[4020.90 --> 4024.90] Uh, and he wrote a book called The Gospel in a Pluralist Society. -[4024.90 --> 4030.90] Uh, and he saw the impact of, uh, the wedding of colonization and Christianity there. -[4030.90 --> 4039.90] And he says the following, uh, the Christian points to Jesus as the master clue in the common search of humanity for salvation and invites others to follow. -[4039.90 --> 4053.90] It is true that this invitation, when it is given by Christians who are in positions of power and privilege, may be radically corrupted into a kind of spiritual imperialism, which is oppressive rather than liberating. -[4053.90 --> 4058.90] Missions have been guilty of this distortion, and we have to acknowledge it. -[4058.90 --> 4064.90] Now, as I share that quote with you, I want you to know that comes from the 1960s. -[4064.90 --> 4071.90] That's not part of the so-called woke culture movement that we might, uh, liken that to today. -[4071.90 --> 4075.90] Um, this is an important aspect of our conversation. -[4075.90 --> 4084.90] And so I wonder if you can reflect on how you have seen the effect of that sort of radical corruption that Newbegin talks about in your work. -[4084.90 --> 4090.90] And then how do you talk to indigenous men and women who have been victims of this imperialism? -[4090.90 --> 4110.90] Um, yeah, no, uh, actually one of the things that I, I continually, uh, struggle, but, uh, to understand, I guess, is, is, so the people group that we work with, the Shwetmik people, uh, Shushwa people, is, is they are, uh, matriarchal. -[4110.90 --> 4116.90] And there's a lot of matriarchal, um, uh, communities as well. -[4116.90 --> 4125.90] And so it's like, so I'm like, I'm always trying to figure out, like, like growing up in the church, it's always like, be a man, be the leader of the household and whatnot. -[4125.90 --> 4137.90] Um, but then all of a sudden, uh, you go into a First Nations context and it's like, you talk to most people and you, and you talk to them about their faith and their faith came from their grandma, their auntie, their mom. -[4137.90 --> 4140.90] They're like, it was, it's very, it's very women led. -[4140.90 --> 4141.90] So it's, it's interesting. -[4141.90 --> 4149.90] Like I've, I've come in, like going into ministry, I was like, I'm going to get ahold of the men and we're going to, you know, kind of shape things around. -[4149.90 --> 4157.90] And, uh, and, and then it was, it, it became very clear, like, it was like, nope, we're, we have to do things different and things are going to look different. -[4157.90 --> 4165.90] And, uh, and so I think coming in it, into it from like a top down and like, uh, and like a, you need this, you need that. -[4165.90 --> 4170.90] Uh, we've, we've lived in the community and we've been a family. -[4170.90 --> 4179.90] Like, it's been cool to see how God has used our kids time and time again, uh, to where we've been a family and just, just operating as a family. -[4179.90 --> 4186.90] In the community and the, the, the, the community seeing, well, cause my parents, my parents came before us as well. -[4186.90 --> 4190.90] Uh, and, and they were in the community working, uh, for name. -[4190.90 --> 4193.90] Um, and then it's kind of neat for them to see. -[4193.90 --> 4201.90] So the same message that my parents were saying, this is the same message that we're saying, and which is the same message that our kids are living out. -[4201.90 --> 4206.90] And they're seeing the healthy, the healthy dynamics of, of our family. -[4206.90 --> 4214.90] And so that's where we're seeing a lot of transformation happen is, is people are more like, they're more inquisitive of like, there's something different. -[4214.90 --> 4217.90] Like there's something different about you and you guys do things different. -[4217.90 --> 4225.90] And how do you guys have hope in the time when, and, and that's what we usually find is it's, it's in those times of hopelessness and those times that, that are hard. -[4225.90 --> 4235.90] And the times that are, you're stretched and you're pushed beyond your means, like, and it, and, and I've been telling people like we've been going from crisis to crisis, to crisis, to crisis. -[4235.90 --> 4239.90] Like it's been like we had COVID then there were, or there was the COVID crisis. -[4239.90 --> 4242.90] Then there was, uh, the heat stroke crisis. -[4242.90 --> 4246.90] Then there was also finding the 215 out in Kamloops. -[4246.90 --> 4250.90] And then there was also, then there's the fires and then the smoke. -[4250.90 --> 4253.90] And, and so it's been like going from one thing to the next, to the next. -[4253.90 --> 4256.90] And people are looking, they're like, where's your hope? -[4256.90 --> 4264.90] That's when everybody's going to be looking for where your hope is, because it's not, it's not in the good times that you're going to sit there and you're going to be like, oh, everything's great and perfect. -[4264.90 --> 4265.90] And you should trust in Jesus. -[4265.90 --> 4285.90] And it's like, and a lot of times it's when they're burying their mother or they're burying their grandpa or they're, or they've lost a loved one or they've, you know, encountered some severe, uh, heartfelt, uh, trauma or, and, and you're, you're walking them, walking with them through that. -[4285.90 --> 4290.90] It's, it's challenging, but at the same time, it's, uh, it's one of those things. -[4290.90 --> 4296.90] I think it's, I think missions has done, done things incorrectly and poorly in the past. -[4296.90 --> 4300.90] I would say some people have, but I think that's across the board. -[4300.90 --> 4312.90] I think, I think it's always tricky to sit there and, and, uh, over generalize and say, because it, because at the same time, I think there was a lot of people in the past that have done an amazing job of just loving people into the kingdom. -[4312.90 --> 4319.90] And I think that's, that's one of my biggest things is, is, uh, starting a conversation and just loving on people. -[4319.90 --> 4323.90] Um, I think that's one of the big, the healthiest things that we can do. -[4323.90 --> 4335.90] Um, and one of the things that came out was, um, like when they started searching for the, like doing these aerial searches, uh, at these residential schools was there's this like hashtag that came out. -[4335.90 --> 4338.90] So that said, tax the churches to pay for the searches. -[4338.90 --> 4341.90] And I was like, I was like, that sucks. -[4341.90 --> 4351.90] Like, I was like, I was like, I don't think like, I, I, whereas I think it would have been a cooler option to all of a sudden have all the churches be like to, to get this information. -[4351.90 --> 4355.90] And as a church body to be like, we want to pay for that. -[4355.90 --> 4356.90] You know what I mean? -[4356.90 --> 4364.90] Not, not an obligation, not like, uh, Hey, this is coming out of your, your, your bank, but more like, uh, Hey, like we care about you guys. -[4364.90 --> 4365.90] We want to pay for that. -[4365.90 --> 4366.90] We want to help you guys out with that. -[4366.90 --> 4368.90] We want to reach out. -[4368.90 --> 4374.90] And so it's, it's, it's little acts of love like that, where you can just be like looking for opportunities. -[4374.90 --> 4385.90] But honestly, the biggest thing is just having that open ear and just listening and, uh, having that respect of, of, uh, of hearing, hearing somebody, hearing somebody out. -[4385.90 --> 4387.90] Did you want to add to that as well? -[4387.90 --> 4388.90] Or? -[4388.90 --> 4390.90] Oh, well, it's interesting. -[4390.90 --> 4397.90] The quote comes from the 1960s and I'll keep it PG, but there was a 1960s scoop, um, during that time too. -[4397.90 --> 4409.90] And what you gotta realize is, um, since the 18, 19 hundreds early, um, lot of people are in survival mode. -[4409.90 --> 4426.90] I'm, you know, um, survival mode, um, is happening, but we want people to really take, um, advantage or we want people to, um, help me with the words, but, um, ownership of their spiritual walk, their spirituality. -[4426.90 --> 4427.90] We really want them. -[4427.90 --> 4436.90] And so if, um, the way missions was done in the past too, sometimes it could be done, I guess, in a little bit of a paternalistic way and, um, teaching them your way, your way, your way. -[4436.90 --> 4445.90] And, um, I mean, I feel like when we first got started and stepped foot on the reserve, wow, I was like, they just taught me. -[4445.90 --> 4449.90] They just brought, they just brought us in and they just taught us so much. -[4449.90 --> 4458.90] And, um, and things can be done different and we can all worship and praise God and, and live for him in our own cultural way. -[4458.90 --> 4459.90] And it was amazing. -[4459.90 --> 4460.90] And it's just amazing. -[4460.90 --> 4466.90] Um, the differences and the variety that, I mean, just God is, um, just so creative. -[4466.90 --> 4474.90] So, um, but with that, uh, survival mode all the time too, um, we have to be really sensitive coming in as. -[4474.90 --> 4475.90] Yeah. -[4475.90 --> 4485.90] No, and I think for many of us, it's hard to understand, uh, what it means to intergenerationally exist in survival mode. -[4485.90 --> 4488.90] I think that's a hard reality for many of us to recognize. -[4488.90 --> 4494.90] Um, I'm going to follow up just a second because, uh, Tim, you keep segueing nicely to where I want this conversation to go. -[4494.90 --> 4495.90] So thank you for that. -[4495.90 --> 4499.90] Um, Newbegin follows up in the, from that quote. -[4499.90 --> 4505.90] And he says that the Christian gospel has sometimes been made a tool of imperialism and of that we have to repent. -[4505.90 --> 4509.90] But at its heart, it is the denial of all imperialisms. -[4509.90 --> 4520.90] For at its center, there is a cross where all imperialisms are humbled and we are invited to find the center of human unity in the one who was made nothing so that all might be made one. -[4520.90 --> 4528.90] The very heart of the biblical vision for the unity of humankind is that its center is not an imperial power, but the slain lamb. -[4529.90 --> 4530.90] Amen. -[4531.90 --> 4532.90] Amen. -[4532.90 --> 4541.90] And, and so how is Jesus and the Christian gospel, uh, the answer that indigenous people, that all people need? -[4544.90 --> 4551.90] And that's, and I think that's been the biggest thing that, um, like I said, we've, we've just tried to live it out. -[4551.90 --> 4556.90] Um, I think, I think that's been, uh, cause we're like, you need to experience it. -[4556.90 --> 4561.90] Like you need to, it needs to come from the spirit and the spirit needs to lead that person into that. -[4561.90 --> 4562.90] Um, and it was funny. -[4562.90 --> 4570.90] I was just talking to charity the other day and I was like, I'm so glad I'm a Calvinist in the sense that I'm like, I'm like, it's not up to me. -[4570.90 --> 4573.90] Like, it's not up to me to drag somebody into faith. -[4573.90 --> 4580.90] Uh, like I can show them like, and, and my, my one buddy put it as he's like, he's like, I'm like a waiter. -[4580.90 --> 4584.90] He's like, he's like, I, I just, I bring the food. -[4584.90 --> 4589.90] He's like, if you have a problem with the food, he's like, talk to the, talk to the chef, talk, go to the kitchen. -[4589.90 --> 4591.90] And I was like, it's so true. -[4591.90 --> 4595.90] Like, and, and so I was like, that's my job is I'm, I'm the waiter. -[4595.90 --> 4599.90] I bring the food and, and it's up to you whether you want to eat it. -[4599.90 --> 4606.90] It's up to you whether you want to complain about it or push it away or, um, but that's, that's, that's been our big thing. -[4606.90 --> 4621.90] Um, is yeah, just not trying to push things, not trying to force it down anybody's throat, but just kind of, uh, presenting it through our, through our own lives and through, through our everyday, uh, I guess goings on. -[4621.90 --> 4627.90] Oh, are you also glad you're a Calvinist? -[4627.90 --> 4634.90] Just, I had coffee this morning and my train of thought is all over the place. -[4634.90 --> 4636.90] Sometimes I should drink decaf. -[4636.90 --> 4637.90] Okay. -[4637.90 --> 4649.90] Um, but, um, we have really interesting conversations in the fellowship and we have to hash things out from their viewpoint and perspective. -[4649.90 --> 4656.90] And we have to hash and, and then we have to present the gospel and it's full truth and it is black and white. -[4656.90 --> 4661.90] Um, but when at the core of all of it, we want the same thing. -[4661.90 --> 4663.90] That's the core of it. -[4663.90 --> 4676.90] And the misrepresentation of, of God, church, the whole picture of it from residential school background, it's not pretty. -[4676.90 --> 4679.90] It's really, really, really messy. -[4679.90 --> 4691.90] And to just present the clear truth, our, the, our chief even was like, I want this for our people and I want our, our people to see it like this. -[4691.90 --> 4695.90] Um, and, uh, that was just recently just said too. -[4695.90 --> 4705.90] And, um, a hard part for me is when we are at, we are at some gatherings and there is that hurt and that pain. -[4705.90 --> 4707.90] And that pain that's projected out. -[4707.90 --> 4708.90] They do. -[4708.90 --> 4711.90] There are some instances where the church is bashed. -[4711.90 --> 4714.90] That's the body that's bashing the body of Christ. -[4714.90 --> 4719.90] And we have a job too, as representatives to say, okay, wait, hold on a second. -[4719.90 --> 4724.90] We need to have a conversation because I represent that body of Christ. -[4724.90 --> 4729.90] And I don't think Jesus wants us talking badly about his bride. -[4729.90 --> 4732.90] I was going to say, I just had, had another thought. -[4732.90 --> 4736.90] Um, this is, and it was kind of interesting with that quote. -[4736.90 --> 4742.90] It, it really, it, it exemplifies kind of what I guess my biggest beef is. -[4742.90 --> 4745.90] Um, because man, like the, the community is amazing. -[4745.90 --> 4747.90] Like the culture is phenomenal. -[4747.90 --> 4755.90] Um, the amount of like, they, they integrate prayer into, into everything that they do. -[4755.90 --> 4759.90] And I'm like, I'm like, oh man, we could like our culture could learn from this. -[4759.90 --> 4762.90] Like, uh, but, but I'm like that. -[4762.90 --> 4765.90] And that's always been the biggest thing is the one missing piece is Jesus. -[4765.90 --> 4768.90] And Jesus is such a massive piece. -[4768.90 --> 4776.90] Um, because there, you talk to any, any kid or any person on the reserve and you ask them about ghosts. -[4776.90 --> 4784.90] And then they're like, you, you, you, any, any kid will give you a handful of stories right off the top of their head of what's going on even inside of their house. -[4784.90 --> 4788.90] Um, so they're very spiritually aware, which is amazing. -[4788.90 --> 4794.90] Um, but instead of going to Jesus with that, instead of going to the ultimate power with that, -[4794.90 --> 4802.90] they're like, they call the medicine men or they call, or they get somebody to clean out the house, uh, with tobacco and sage and, and rose water. -[4802.90 --> 4805.90] And so it's like, you need all these different things. -[4805.90 --> 4816.90] And it, and it reminded me very much of like the Pharisee sort of a situation where it's like, you have to go through these certain ceremonies in order to, to get this, this purification. -[4816.90 --> 4818.90] Whereas I'm like, man, it's a free gift. -[4818.90 --> 4820.90] It's a free gift and it's right here. -[4820.90 --> 4822.90] And all you have to do is just accept it. -[4822.90 --> 4823.90] Like, that's it. -[4823.90 --> 4832.90] Um, and so that's been, yeah, I find, I find a lot of times there's the, the leaning on the ancestors. -[4832.90 --> 4841.90] So the people that died before us, like our, our, our ancestors, uh, to, to kind of lead us and guide us and take us along the way. -[4841.90 --> 4847.90] And I'm like, yeah, but, and I've had these conversations with some of the medicine men, uh, and spiritual people in the community. -[4847.90 --> 4855.90] And I'm like, what if they're not, what if they don't know the way I was like, what if they, I was like, what if they're bad ancestors? -[4855.90 --> 4859.90] I was like, everybody's had a bad, like a, that weird uncle, like that weird. -[4859.90 --> 4860.90] Like that weird. -[4860.90 --> 4868.90] And so, and so I'm like, I'm like, there's, there's all those, like, and so we've had those conversations and it's, and it's, uh, it's been interesting. -[4868.90 --> 4872.90] Like that, and, and that, that's what I've always tried to do is just, just ask questions. -[4872.90 --> 4878.90] Like we always try to ask questions and just try to, try to, try to understand more. -[4878.90 --> 4890.90] And, uh, but yeah, I think that's, that's the biggest piece for me is, is man, like there's just so much freedom through Christ that we, that we experience that, uh, that can be so healing. -[4890.90 --> 4899.90] And, and it's amazing when you see somebody who has had intergenerational trauma and then they can come to Christ, like the amount of us switch over. -[4899.90 --> 4908.90] And I'm not saying that it's always going to be like an immediate switch over and everything's peachy and there's rainbows and sunshine and everything. -[4908.90 --> 4913.90] Uh, but there's, there's so many, so many people where it's like, it's just a night and day switch. -[4913.90 --> 4915.90] It's just a total, total transformation. -[4915.90 --> 4917.90] And it's, it's amazing to see. -[4917.90 --> 4920.90] Amen. -[4920.90 --> 4924.90] There's so many more questions I want to ask you and conversations we want to get into. -[4924.90 --> 4931.90] I'm going to just, again, they're going to be in the back following our time here this morning and you can follow up with them some more. -[4931.90 --> 4938.90] Uh, one last thing and, um, Tim quickly, you suffer the same disease I do. -[4938.90 --> 4946.90] So what are some, uh, resources or suggested learning you can provide for us or suggest to us as we go forward? -[4946.90 --> 4954.90] We have like a really good, actually, we have a, uh, we were going to do a bunch of printouts of it, but there's a bunch of different web links. -[4954.90 --> 4959.90] But what we can do is, um, we actually have, uh, some prayer cards. -[4959.90 --> 4960.90] They're like updated. -[4960.90 --> 4963.90] So it actually looks like us, not like us, like 20 years ago. -[4963.90 --> 4969.90] Um, but, uh, and, and on it, it has our email address. -[4969.90 --> 4978.90] Um, so if you guys want some more resources, we can easily, like, just send us a quick little email and we'll just email you all these different web links. -[4978.90 --> 4982.90] Um, and, and it's some really good stuff. -[4982.90 --> 4983.90] What's that? -[4983.90 --> 4986.90] And if you have Netflix, you can watch Indian horse. -[4986.90 --> 4987.90] Yeah. -[4987.90 --> 4998.90] And then we're gonna, we're gonna, this is a, it's not a Christian author, but still really good, really good, uh, uh, stuff from a, a First Nations point of view. -[4998.90 --> 5011.90] Um, and so we're gonna gift this one to you guys for your library, so that way hopefully if you guys are ever, like, just kind of, uh, it's a really easy read, but at the same time it also tackles some really, really hard topics. -[5011.90 --> 5020.90] Uh, and it just kind of gets you, gets you thinking of, uh, some, some ways of kind of, uh, opening up and, and, uh, looking for ways to, to plug in. -[5020.90 --> 5027.90] So, yeah, I'd, I'd say the biggest, easiest way is just to email us and then we can send you some more, more information for sure. -[5027.90 --> 5028.90] Excellent. -[5028.90 --> 5029.90] Thank you. -[5029.90 --> 5031.90] Uh, Amanda, do you hear that? -[5031.90 --> 5032.90] They're giving a book to the library. -[5032.90 --> 5037.90] So, quickly put the church stamp in it so that everybody here can run and wrestle for who gets it first. -[5037.90 --> 5045.90] Tim and Charity, uh, and your kids who are back there, I want to thank you all so much for joining with us, uh, and for sharing your story. -[5045.90 --> 5048.90] Can we thank them together, just with a quick round of applause? -[5048.90 --> 5050.90] Thank you guys. -[5050.90 --> 5056.90] I'm gonna finish just by praying for you and for the work of name. -[5056.90 --> 5057.90] And for the work of name. -[5057.90 --> 5059.90] Let's bow our heads in prayer together. -[5059.90 --> 5079.90] Heavenly Father, as we sit, uh, in circle together in these hard conversations, we thank you first for your grace and for your mercy, which has made us new. -[5079.90 --> 5091.90] We thank you for the, the testimonies of being made new and of, uh, seeing that happen in people's lives. -[5091.90 --> 5101.90] God, even though we are no longer slaves to sin or to a past, we know that we are impacted by that past. -[5101.90 --> 5110.90] We may not be defined by it, and yet it still influences how we see the world or how we interact with others. -[5110.90 --> 5122.90] And so we want to pray, Lord God, that by the power of your spirit, you would, uh, not only, uh, show to us that we have been made new, but also, Lord God, make us new. -[5122.90 --> 5127.90] Help us to be that new creation in our life together. -[5127.90 --> 5136.90] Lord, I want to thank you for Tim and for charity and for their family and the work that they do in the, the Shuswap community. -[5136.90 --> 5147.90] Uh, I pray, Lord God, for the relationships that they have with, uh, the First Nations people and the, uh, chiefs and the other families and the young people. -[5147.90 --> 5158.70] I pray for the, uh, the life that they live on the ground in the mess and the, uh, sometimes hell of trauma with them. -[5159.90 --> 5163.94] I pray, Lord God, that you would strengthen their work, strengthen their hearts. -[5164.42 --> 5170.98] May they also be captivated by your gospel and by you, Lord Jesus, and the beauty of what you have in store. -[5172.74 --> 5175.26] And may they be refreshed and renewed in that. -[5177.90 --> 5180.84] God, we pray for their work and for the work of name. -[5181.00 --> 5185.48] And we pray for all missionaries who are serving you locally and globally. -[5187.14 --> 5190.44] Empower that ministry. -[5191.18 --> 5197.52] Empower your mission that we might see the church grown for the glory of God the Father. -[5199.10 --> 5202.08] It is in the name of Jesus Christ that we all pray. -[5202.92 --> 5203.34] Amen. -[5204.54 --> 5204.88] Amen. -[5205.88 --> 5206.64] Thank you, guys. -[5207.90 --> 5215.56] Noah and Jared, can you guys do your thing, too? -[5217.64 --> 5222.02] Clear the stage so that we can continue in our worship together. -[5222.02 --> 5222.14] Amen. -[5222.14 --> 5222.18] Amen. -[5222.18 --> 5222.22] Amen. -[5222.22 --> 5222.26] Amen. -[5222.26 --> 5222.30] Amen. -[5222.30 --> 5222.34] Amen. -[5222.34 --> 5222.36] Amen. -[5222.36 --> 5222.40] Amen. -[5222.40 --> 5222.46] Amen. -[5222.46 --> 5224.24] Amen. -[5224.24 --> 5224.34] Amen. -[5224.34 --> 5226.34] Amen. -[5226.34 --> 5226.40] Amen. -[5226.40 --> 5226.46] Amen. -[5237.90 --> 5239.52] Amen. -[5239.52 --> 5239.60] Amen. -[5241.24 --> 5252.08] Amen. -[5252.08 --> 5252.76] Amen. -[5252.76 --> 5254.02] Amen. -[5254.02 --> 5254.22] Amen. -[5254.22 --> 5255.36] Amen. -[5255.36 --> 5256.52] Amen. -[5256.52 --> 5258.92] Amen. -[5258.92 --> 5264.56] Amen. -[5264.56 --> 5265.30] Amen. -[5265.30 --> 5281.02] I think we're almost there. -[5281.02 --> 5286.96] I invite you to stand and join us in our song of response. -[5295.30 --> 5310.32] I am the Lord of sea and sky. -[5310.32 --> 5314.82] I have learned my people cry. -[5315.38 --> 5322.54] All who dwell in dark and sin, my hand will say. -[5322.54 --> 5332.54] I who made the stars of night, I will make their darkness bright. -[5332.54 --> 5337.54] Who will bear my life to them? -[5337.54 --> 5342.54] Whom shall I serve? -[5342.54 --> 5351.54] Here I am, Lord, in His eye, Lord. -[5351.54 --> 5360.54] I have heard You calling in the night. -[5360.54 --> 5390.54] -[5390.54 --> 5394.54] I have wept for love of them. -[5394.54 --> 5398.54] They turn away. -[5398.54 --> 5402.54] I will break their hearts of stone. -[5402.54 --> 5407.54] Give them hearts for love alone. -[5407.54 --> 5411.54] I will speak my word to them. -[5411.54 --> 5416.54] Whom shall I serve? -[5416.54 --> 5420.54] Here I am, Lord. -[5420.54 --> 5425.54] It is our Lord. -[5425.54 --> 5434.54] I have heard You calling in the night. -[5434.54 --> 5442.54] I will go, Lord, if You need me. -[5442.54 --> 5453.54] I will hold Your people in my heart. -[5453.54 --> 5455.54] I'm Lord of lords of the Lord. -[5455.54 --> 5458.54] I will tend the poor and lame. -[5458.54 --> 5462.54] I will send a feast for them. -[5462.54 --> 5472.54] My hand will save. -[5472.54 --> 5475.54] Finest bread I will provide. -[5475.54 --> 5478.54] Till their hearts are satisfied. -[5478.54 --> 5480.54] I will give my life to them. -[5480.54 --> 5485.54] I will give my life to them. -[5485.54 --> 5490.54] Whom shall I serve? -[5490.54 --> 5494.54] Here I am, Lord. -[5494.54 --> 5495.54] Here I am, Lord. -[5495.54 --> 5496.54] Here I am, Lord. -[5496.54 --> 5497.54] Here I am, Lord. -[5497.54 --> 5498.54] Here I am, Lord. -[5498.54 --> 5499.54] Here I am, Lord. -[5499.54 --> 5504.54] I am, Lord, you calling in the night. -[5504.54 --> 5509.54] I will go, Lord. -[5509.54 --> 5515.54] If You need me. -[5515.54 --> 5523.54] I will hold Your people in my heart. -[5523.54 --> 5538.48] Once again, thank you for joining with us this morning in worship. -[5538.48 --> 5544.76] As you go this week, know that God himself, in the power of his Holy Spirit, goes with you, -[5545.28 --> 5548.82] that you might live in the beauty of the gospel of Jesus Christ. -[5548.82 --> 5554.76] God goes with us with his blessing, and so receive the blessing of our God. -[5556.40 --> 5559.30] May God go before you to lead you. -[5559.92 --> 5562.34] May God go behind you to guard you. -[5562.94 --> 5565.20] May God go beneath you to support you. -[5565.48 --> 5568.08] May God go beside you to befriend you. -[5568.56 --> 5570.42] Do not be afraid. -[5571.00 --> 5573.00] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5573.00 --> 5579.56] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5580.68 --> 5581.38] Amen. -[5603.00 --> 5605.00] May God go beneath you, Lord. -[5605.00 --> 5607.00] May God go beneath you, Lord. -[5607.00 --> 5610.24] Your mercy never fails me. -[5611.74 --> 5618.00] All my days I've been held in your hands. -[5618.00 --> 5626.68] From the moment that I wake up, until I lay my hand, -[5626.68 --> 5633.36] I will sing of the goodness of God. -[5633.36 --> 5641.76] All my life you have been faithful. -[5644.42 --> 5651.16] All my life you have been so, so good. -[5651.16 --> 5665.16] With every breath that I am able, I will sing of the goodness of God. -[5666.84 --> 5669.22] I love your voice. -[5670.84 --> 5674.72] You have led me through the fire. -[5674.72 --> 5704.70] I love your voice. -[5704.72 --> 5734.70] I love your voice. -[5734.72 --> 5736.72] Your goodness is running after me. -[5736.72 --> 5738.72] It's running after me. -[5738.72 --> 5739.72] It's running after me. -[5739.72 --> 5740.72] It's running after me. -[5740.72 --> 5744.72] Your goodness is running after me. -[5744.72 --> 5746.72] It's running after me. -[5746.72 --> 5750.72] When I play the love, I surrender now. -[5750.72 --> 5752.72] I give you everything. -[5752.72 --> 5754.72] Your goodness is running after me. -[5754.72 --> 5756.72] It's running after me. -[5756.72 --> 5758.72] Your goodness is running after me. -[5758.72 --> 5760.72] Your goodness is running after me. -[5760.72 --> 5762.72] It's running after me. -[5762.72 --> 5764.72] It's running after me. -[5764.72 --> 5766.72] Your goodness is running after me. -[5766.72 --> 5796.72] -[5796.72 --> 5802.36] All my life you have been faithful -[5802.36 --> 5811.88] All my life you have been so, so good -[5811.88 --> 5817.80] Every breath that I am able -[5817.80 --> 5825.72] I will sing of the goodness of God -[5825.72 --> 5833.64] All my life you have been faithful -[5833.64 --> 5844.14] All my life you have been so, so good -[5844.14 --> 5849.20] Every breath that I am able -[5849.20 --> 5856.80] I will sing of the goodness of God -[5856.80 --> 5864.92] I will sing of the goodness of God -[5864.92 --> 5872.84] I will sing of the goodness of God -[5872.84 --> 5880.76] I will sing of the goodness of God -[5880.76 --> 5888.68] I will sing of the goodness of God -[5888.68 --> 5896.60] I will sing of the goodness of God -[5896.60 --> 5904.52] I will sing of the goodness of God diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 6, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 6, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 9a757fcb8088dcd219b4bbde7caefd82049dc161..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 6, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,129 +0,0 @@ -• Invitation to worship and acknowledgement of God's presence -• Chanting and repetition of phrases such as "Alleluia" and "For the Lord God Almighty reigns" -• Song or hymn with repetitive lyrics about God's holiness and glory -• Inviting the Holy Spirit to be present and fill the atmosphere -• Requesting awareness of God's presence and experience of His goodness -• The longing for God's glory and presence -• Praying for rain and healing of the land -• Waiting for God to act against evil and bring justice -• Longing for Jesus' return and second coming -• Anticipation and preparation for Jesus' arrival -• Worship service discussion of the nature and characteristics of God -• Giving of gifts and offerings for the budget and Gateway of Hope ministry -• Reading from Proverbs 14:31 about generosity to the needy -• Introduction of Union Gospel Mission as next week's collection -• Prayer and singing, with repetition of phrases about searching for God's heart and being a sacrifice -• Invitation for children to come forward for blessing -• Discussion of summer fun and enjoyment -• Family prayer led by Paul, an elder -• Announcements: funeral for Alice Rurisma, Lord's Supper next week -• Prayer to God, praising creation and seeking refuge in times of trouble -• Request for blessings on the church and its members, including those with personal needs and struggles -• Prayers for individuals with various health issues and family challenges -• Requests for healing, comfort, and protection for those affected by illness, injury, or hardship -• Celebration of recent marriage and prayers for expectant mothers during hot summer months -• Prayer for safety and care of firefighters and those affected by forest fires. -• Prayers for continued healing, safe travels, and rejuvenation -• Requests for peace, patience, and strength in caregiving relationships -• Comfort and support for those mourning the loss of a loved one -• Prayers for mental health and well-being -• Recognition of God's presence and guidance -• Gratitude for church ministries and leaders -• Request to be guided by God's Spirit and to trust in Jesus -• Reading from Hebrews 11, discussing faith heroes and their stories -• Reflection on the importance of stories in making sense of the world and defining ourselves. -• Importance of stories in shaping one's worldview and relationship with God -• The significance of knowing which story one lives out of (e.g. Christian, Hindu) -• How the story one tells about themselves can affect their perception of God at work in the world -• Distinguishing between grand, dramatic testimonies and quiet, ordinary stories of God's faithfulness -• Exploring how Abraham's story is a model for the church's calling and the importance of using one's story for God's glory -• The church is called to go into unfamiliar territory like Abraham, relying on God's promises -• The story of Abraham begins before his introduction in Genesis, where Adam and Eve's family lines are established -• Terah, Abraham's father, worshipped other gods and lost hope for humanity -• Hope must come from outside the land, which is why God calls Abraham to leave his country and people -• God's promises are only real when one has a personal call from Him -• Scripture promises of God's plans and purposes for his people -• Jeremiah's calling and purpose -• Isaiah's promise to sustain and rescue -• Plans to prosper and give hope and a future -• The story of Lewis and Clark and their journey off the map -• Reimagining and making new plans when previous ones no longer work -• Adapting to unknown places and circumstances -• The challenges of being Christian in the 21st century -• Losing the presumption of Christian privilege -• Difficulty distinguishing between Christians and non-Christians -• Problematic behavior within the church -• Shift from assuming a universal moral order to recognizing changing societal norms -• The Bible sets a high standard for sexual ethics, not to prevent flourishing or steal joy, but to increase joy and opportunity for flourishing. -• This high standard reflects God's design and intent for human life. -• A church father named Aaron Neus believed the glory of God is the human being fully alive, and pursuing this glory leads to joy and fulfillment. -• Many churches struggle to discuss sex and sexuality openly and honestly, leading to a disconnect between what people believe about the Bible and their actual practices. -• It's easy for individuals to assume they have a better plan than God or scripture when it comes to complex issues like abortion, end-of-life care, and drug use. -• The current societal landscape is unprecedented and challenging for the church -• Being a disciple of Jesus in this new context requires re-examining traditional practices -• The church must adapt to a changing world without compromising core values or becoming "progressive" -• Historical truths remain essential, but their application may need to evolve in response to changing circumstances -• There is a disconnect between older and younger generations in their perceptions of the church's safety and comfort level -• Stepping into the unknown with faith -• Equipping oneself for the journey through God's promises -• Abraham as a model for faith and obedience -• Faith requires taking action before seeing results -• Living by faith means living as strangers or foreigners in one's own land -• Trusting God despite uncertainty and lack of clear guidance -• The Christian life is about trusting in God's promises and stepping out into the unknown -• Faith involves doing what you don't know how to do or where it will lead -• It takes faith to ask God for guidance when there is no clear plan or map -• The question is not what we are going to do, but how we will step forward with the right attitude and faith -• Abraham's story is an example of stepping out in faith, as he trusted in God's promises despite uncertainty. -• The promise of blessing to every nation starts with the sun -• God told Abraham to look to the sun as a guarantee of world blessing -• Isaac points us to the true and better sun, Jesus -• Jesus follows the same pattern by leaving his family and giving up comfort for a world that did not recognize him -• He came to his own but was rejected, even to death on a cross -• The reference to Abraham being called to a land he didn't know is likened to Jesus' journey into the abyss and his prayer in the garden. -• The cup of God's wrath against sin is referenced, which Jesus bears. -• When God calls people to new places or off the map, he says "look to the sun" (referring to Jesus). -• In an increasingly post-Christian world, people will look like Abraham, forever foreigners in a new land. -• Faith heroes, including Abraham, were living by faith and didn't receive the promises made but only saw them from afar. -• They are described as strangers on earth, looking for their own country. -• Fixing one's eyes on Jesus and a future secured in heaven -• The role of faith heroes, such as Abraham, in pointing to Christ -• The call to perseverance and running the race marked out for us -• Jesus as the pioneer and perfecter of our faith -• The joy set before him that he endured the cross for -• Jesus was sent to a land he knew but the world did not know as a blessing -• Believers are now called to send themselves into unfamiliar lands, trusting in God's promise of provision and protection -• The truth of the gospel is that every knee will bow and confess Jesus Christ as Lord -• God's joy is to save and find those who were lost, and he alone can do it -• Believers are sent out never alone, with Jesus' presence and guidance in their journey -• God will equip and bless believers for the journey, turning their abilities into opportunities to serve him -• The faith requires giving up security and trusting God's call -• The speaker and their wife, Rachel, moved to Grand Rapids for the speaker's seminary studies -• They studied together and navigated a new city without a lot of experience or familiarity -• The speaker reflects on being called into ministry and service after completing his degree -• He received an email with a list of churches in need of pastors, including one that he contacted with a letter -• The speaker had sent an email to Trinity Church in St. Catharines about being a student pastor -• They received an initial rejection response, but then were offered pulpit supply on May 15th -• The speaker's wife Rachel claimed that God had told her three years ago that they would serve at Trinity Church -• Despite having no family or history connection to the church, the speaker and his family ended up attending Trinity Church -• The search committee later contacted the speaker about being a student pastor after initial rejection -• The speaker reflects on a past experience where they felt God leading them and their family to move west -• Rachel's role in hearing and responding to God's call to move is highlighted as an example of obedience and faithfulness -• The importance of sharing stories of how we see God at work in the world is emphasized -• The congregation is encouraged to tell someone about where they have seen God at work, experience joy in knowing Jesus, and cry out for a deeper sense of God's presence -• Where is God calling us in our lives? -• The importance of hearing and seeing God at work -• Being called to serve and give up comfort -• Finding true joy in following God's call -• Praying for guidance and courage to follow God's will -• A song or hymn is mentioned, but not specified -• Blessings and protection for those going out -• Encouragement to go in love, grace, and power of the Spirit -• Invitations to share life and story -• Anticipation of God's work in the world -• References to the bride and glory of God -• Celebration through song and dance -• References to the Father's will and the glory of God -• Repeating themes of dancing on different levels for dryness, grace, and joy -• Timestamps of a conversation or recording -• No discernible content mentioned within the timestamps \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 6, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 6, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 06240a10479a7049f6aa99a13f16fd664d866a85..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 6, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2397 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[389.98 --> 419.96] Thank you. -[419.96 --> 449.94] Good morning, everyone. -[449.96 --> 479.94] Thank you. -[479.96 --> 509.94] Thank you. -[509.96 --> 539.94] Thank you. -[539.96 --> 547.46] I'm going to ask, as you're able, if you would stand and we will begin our worship and enter into God's presence together. -[547.88 --> 558.78] One of the ways we mark and acknowledge God's presence here is by the presence of God, and so I invite you to open your heart, and so I invite you to open your heart, maybe even your hands to receive the greeting of God. -[558.78 --> 560.78] Amen. -[588.78 --> 618.78] Let's try that, and so let's try that, and so on. -[618.78 --> 648.76] We're going to listen to God, and so we're going to say, and so we'll be, and so we're going to do this, and so we're going to do, and so on, and so we're going to join together in worship this morning. -[648.76 --> 670.76] Alleluia -[670.76 --> 676.76] Alleluia -[676.76 --> 684.76] For the Lord God Almighty reigns -[684.76 --> 690.76] Alleluia -[690.76 --> 696.76] Alleluia -[696.76 --> 704.76] For the Lord God Almighty reigns -[704.76 --> 710.76] Alleluia -[710.76 --> 716.76] Holy -[716.76 --> 718.76] Holy -[718.76 --> 724.76] Are you Lord God Almighty? -[724.76 --> 730.76] When He is a man -[730.76 --> 732.76] When He is a man -[732.76 --> 736.76] For you are holy -[736.76 --> 738.76] Holy -[738.76 --> 744.76] Are you Lord God Almighty? -[744.76 --> 746.76] When He is a man -[746.76 --> 748.76] When He is a man -[748.76 --> 750.76] When He is a man -[750.76 --> 752.76] Amen -[752.76 --> 756.76] Amen -[756.76 --> 758.76] Amen -[758.76 --> 764.76] Alleluia -[764.76 --> 766.76] Alleluia -[766.76 --> 768.76] Alleluia -[768.76 --> 770.76] Alleluia -[770.76 --> 772.76] For the Lord God Almighty reigns -[772.76 --> 774.76] Alleluia -[774.76 --> 778.76] For the Lord God Almighty reigns -[778.76 --> 782.76] Alleluia -[782.76 --> 784.76] Alleluia -[784.76 --> 786.76] Alleluia -[786.76 --> 788.76] Alleluia -[788.76 --> 790.76] Alleluia -[790.76 --> 792.76] For the Lord God Almighty reigns -[792.76 --> 794.76] Alleluia -[794.76 --> 796.76] For the Lord God Almighty reigns -[796.76 --> 798.76] Alleluia -[798.76 --> 804.76] Alleluia -[804.76 --> 806.76] Hallelujah. -[808.76 --> 814.76] Holy, holy. -[816.76 --> 822.76] Are you, Lord God Almighty? -[822.76 --> 825.76] For He is a Lamb, -[825.76 --> 827.76] For He is a Lamb, -[827.76 --> 831.76] For You are holy, -[831.76 --> 835.76] Holy. -[835.76 --> 841.76] Are You, Lord God Almighty? -[841.76 --> 845.76] Worth He is a Lamb, -[845.76 --> 847.76] Worth He is a Lamb, -[847.76 --> 851.76] For You are holy, -[851.76 --> 855.76] Holy. -[855.76 --> 860.76] Are You, Lord God Almighty? -[861.76 --> 863.76] Worth He is a Lamb, -[863.76 --> 865.76] Worth He is a Lamb, -[865.76 --> 869.76] For You are holy, -[869.76 --> 871.76] Holy. -[871.76 --> 875.76] Are You, Lord God Almighty? -[875.76 --> 877.76] Worth He is a Lamb, -[877.76 --> 879.76] Worth He is a Lamb, -[879.76 --> 881.76] For You are holy, -[881.76 --> 883.76] For He is a Lamb, -[883.76 --> 885.76] For He is a Lamb, -[885.76 --> 887.76] For He is a Lamb, -[887.76 --> 889.76] For You are holy, -[889.76 --> 895.76] Holy Spirit, You are welcome here, -[895.76 --> 897.76] Lord God Almighty? -[897.76 --> 899.76] Come flood this place, -[899.76 --> 901.76] And fill the atmosphere. -[901.76 --> 905.76] Your glory, God, -[905.76 --> 909.76] Is what our hearts long for, -[909.76 --> 911.76] To Thee, O God, -[911.76 --> 916.70] by your presence Lord. -[920.70 --> 925.52] Your presence Lord. -[930.96 --> 937.78] Let us become more aware of your presence. -[937.78 --> 943.78] Let us experience the glory of your goodness. -[944.62 --> 950.48] Let us become more aware of your presence. -[951.38 --> 957.12] Let us experience the glory of your goodness. -[958.12 --> 963.74] Let us become more aware of your presence. -[963.74 --> 969.74] Let us experience the glory of your goodness. -[976.74 --> 983.18] Holy Spirit, you are welcome here. -[983.66 --> 988.74] Come flood this place and fill the atmosphere. -[988.74 --> 995.74] Let us feel your glory, God, is what our hearts long for. -[996.74 --> 1003.74] To be overcome by your presence Lord. -[1003.74 --> 1016.74] Let us feel your glory, God, is what our hearts long for. -[1016.74 --> 1017.74] Let us feel your glory, God, is what our hearts long for. -[1017.74 --> 1021.78] Our confession and our assurance this morning come from 2 Peter. -[1022.56 --> 1025.44] 2 Peter 3, verses 8 to 9, read this way. -[1025.54 --> 1025.84] It says, -[1025.84 --> 1028.92] But do not forget this one thing, dear friends. -[1029.72 --> 1032.06] With the Lord, a day is like a thousand years, -[1032.14 --> 1033.88] and a thousand years are like a day. -[1034.56 --> 1037.68] The Lord is not slow in keeping his promises, -[1038.50 --> 1040.20] as some understand slowness. -[1041.20 --> 1043.70] Instead, he is patient with you, -[1044.28 --> 1046.12] not wanting anyone to perish, -[1046.70 --> 1048.84] but everyone to come to repentance. -[1048.84 --> 1076.72] We have prayed to you for rain. -[1076.72 --> 1080.60] We have prayed for your compassion -[1080.60 --> 1084.72] to heal the land again. -[1085.44 --> 1088.76] There was a man in your presence, -[1089.30 --> 1091.94] more hungry than before. -[1093.08 --> 1096.00] Now we're on your steps of mercy, -[1096.92 --> 1099.50] and we're knocking at your door. -[1099.50 --> 1107.50] How long before you drench the air in the air? -[1107.50 --> 1114.38] How long before we see your ancestors? -[1114.38 --> 1122.22] How long before your name is lifted high? -[1122.22 --> 1132.22] How long before the name returns to songs of joy? -[1132.22 --> 1134.22] How long before I see you for rain? -[1134.22 --> 1137.10] Lord, we know your heart is broken -[1137.10 --> 1141.36] by the evil that you see, -[1141.48 --> 1144.76] and in state your hand of judgment, -[1145.50 --> 1148.22] for you let us stand and breathe. -[1149.40 --> 1152.18] And the land is still in darkness, -[1153.12 --> 1156.34] and we've fed the world's right. -[1156.34 --> 1163.42] We have built a side of children who will never see your light. -[1163.76 --> 1170.56] How long before you drench the better land? -[1170.88 --> 1177.74] How long before you see your righteous hand? -[1178.12 --> 1184.88] How long before your name is filled with high? -[1184.88 --> 1194.42] How long before the leap returns to songs of joy? -[1196.78 --> 1203.86] But before the day is coming, when the deaf will hear his voice, -[1204.30 --> 1211.12] when the blind will see his halo and the lame will be for joy, -[1211.12 --> 1218.24] when the will of God is high to sin, who will always love to try, -[1218.80 --> 1225.16] and the order of God is water, who will never be the sky? -[1225.16 --> 1232.48] How long before your glory lies in skies? -[1232.82 --> 1239.16] How long before your rage is filled with high? -[1239.16 --> 1246.72] How long before your grace is filled with high? -[1246.72 --> 1256.26] How long before the earth resounds in songs of joy? -[1256.26 --> 1259.40] How long before your grace is filled with high? -[1259.40 --> 1261.94] Isaiah 30 verse 18 says, -[1262.92 --> 1266.06] Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you. -[1266.74 --> 1270.06] Therefore he will rise up to show you compassion, -[1270.60 --> 1272.72] for the Lord is a God of justice. -[1273.38 --> 1275.76] Blessed are all who wait for him. -[1275.76 --> 1297.86] All of creation, all of the earth -[1297.86 --> 1302.68] May stay high in our Lord -[1302.68 --> 1308.56] Jesus is coming soon -[1308.56 --> 1315.36] Call out the sinner, wait out the saints -[1315.36 --> 1320.18] Let every nation shout your name -[1320.18 --> 1326.56] Jesus is coming soon -[1326.56 --> 1333.78] Like a cry waiting for a room -[1333.78 --> 1339.38] We'll be a church ready for you every hour -[1339.38 --> 1342.72] Longing for our King -[1342.72 --> 1347.72] We sing, hear Him so loud -[1347.72 --> 1352.34] Lord Jesus, come -[1352.34 --> 1356.50] Hear Him so loud -[1356.50 --> 1360.72] Lord Jesus, come -[1360.72 --> 1365.68] There will be justice -[1365.68 --> 1369.84] All of you, your name forever -[1369.84 --> 1372.06] Faithful and true -[1372.06 --> 1377.68] Jesus is coming soon -[1377.68 --> 1385.68] Like a cry waiting for a room -[1386.24 --> 1391.76] We'll be a church ready for you every hour -[1391.76 --> 1395.04] Longing for our King -[1395.04 --> 1400.04] We sing, hear Him so loud -[1400.04 --> 1404.08] Lord Jesus, come -[1404.08 --> 1408.64] Hear Him so loud -[1408.64 --> 1413.76] Lord Jesus, come -[1413.76 --> 1416.04] God, we wait -[1416.04 --> 1422.04] We wait, we wait for you -[1422.04 --> 1430.04] God, we wait, you are coming soon -[1430.04 --> 1438.04] God, we wait, we wait for you -[1438.04 --> 1446.32] God, we wait, you are coming soon -[1446.32 --> 1448.04] God, we wait, you are coming soon -[1448.04 --> 1450.04] God, we wait, you are coming soon -[1450.04 --> 1454.42] Like a cry waiting for a room -[1454.42 --> 1459.78] We'll be a church ready for you every hour -[1459.78 --> 1463.06] Longing for our King -[1463.06 --> 1466.06] We sing, hear Him so loud -[1466.06 --> 1471.38] Like a cry waiting for a room -[1471.38 --> 1476.66] We'll be a church ready for you every hour -[1476.66 --> 1479.86] Longing for our King -[1479.86 --> 1484.70] We sing, hear Him so loud -[1484.70 --> 1486.70] Lord Jesus, come -[1486.70 --> 1488.70] Lord Jesus, come -[1488.70 --> 1491.70] He is so loud -[1491.70 --> 1496.70] Lord Jesus, come -[1496.70 --> 1501.70] He is so loud -[1501.70 --> 1506.70] Lord Jesus, come -[1506.70 --> 1536.68] Lord Jesus, come -[1536.68 --> 1564.12] strong -[1566.68 --> 1571.08] A strong healer. -[1572.82 --> 1577.16] You are the everlasting God. -[1577.16 --> 1581.38] The everlasting God. -[1581.82 --> 1584.90] You do not make you all. -[1585.28 --> 1587.40] Grow weary. -[1588.70 --> 1592.62] You're the defender of the weak. -[1592.62 --> 1596.92] If the earth grows in me. -[1597.58 --> 1600.54] You lift us up on me. -[1600.54 --> 1603.14] My ego. -[1611.72 --> 1613.28] Strength arises. -[1613.52 --> 1615.24] We lay upon the Lord. -[1615.24 --> 1617.22] We lay upon the Lord. -[1617.22 --> 1619.66] We lay upon the Lord. -[1620.28 --> 1621.40] Strength arises. -[1621.40 --> 1623.40] We lay upon the Lord. -[1623.40 --> 1625.36] We lay upon the Lord. -[1625.36 --> 1627.36] We lay upon the Lord. -[1627.36 --> 1628.82] Our God. -[1629.32 --> 1633.12] You may forever. -[1634.24 --> 1635.82] A home. -[1636.30 --> 1640.12] A strong healer. -[1642.32 --> 1646.28] You are the everlasting God. -[1646.28 --> 1650.54] The everlasting God. -[1650.54 --> 1653.96] You do not make you all. -[1653.96 --> 1656.50] Grow weary. -[1656.50 --> 1661.84] You're the defender of the weak. -[1661.84 --> 1665.60] You comfort those in need. -[1665.60 --> 1669.28] You lift us up on me. -[1669.50 --> 1672.50] I need a home. -[1672.50 --> 1676.46] You are the everlasting God. -[1676.46 --> 1677.46] You are the everlasting God. -[1677.46 --> 1680.46] The everlasting God. -[1680.46 --> 1684.80] You do not make you all. -[1684.80 --> 1687.46] Grow weary. -[1687.46 --> 1692.34] You're the defender of the weak. -[1692.34 --> 1695.76] You, you're the everlasting God. -[1695.76 --> 1699.80] You lift us up on me. -[1699.80 --> 1702.46] You lift me both. -[1702.46 --> 1714.40] You may have a seat. -[1732.46 --> 1747.84] Good morning. My name is Yap. I'm a deacon here at Langley Emanuel. We'll continue our worship with the giving of our gifts. First offering will be for the budget and the special offering is for the Gateway of Hope. -[1747.84 --> 1764.44] The Gateway of Hope is a ministry of the Salvation Army in Canada. Serving the city and township of Langley, their mission is to help the homeless and those at risk with material assistance and other crucial supports in order to help them find hope and move forward. -[1765.56 --> 1773.06] Over the years since they've opened, they have assisted many men and women to move out of homelessness for good and into healthy living. -[1774.06 --> 1776.86] Please consider giving to this ministry as you're able to. -[1777.84 --> 1787.12] From Proverbs 14 verse 31, whoever oppresses a poor man insults his maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him. -[1790.18 --> 1793.40] Next week's collection will be for Union Gospel Mission. -[1807.84 --> 1826.66] Lord, you have my heart and I will search for yours. -[1826.66 --> 1833.46] Jesus, take my heart and lead me alone. -[1835.66 --> 1844.92] Lord, you have my heart and I will search for yours. -[1844.92 --> 1850.36] Let me be to you a sacrifice. -[1850.36 --> 1857.36] Lord, you have my heart and I will praise you, Lord. -[1857.36 --> 1860.36] I will praise you, Lord. -[1860.36 --> 1863.36] I will praise you, Lord. -[1863.36 --> 1868.36] I will sing upon you. -[1868.36 --> 1875.36] And as you show your praise. -[1875.36 --> 1880.64] And as you show your praise. -[1880.64 --> 1881.64] We'll see your glory. -[1881.64 --> 1887.64] We'll see your glory. -[1887.64 --> 1895.64] Lord, you have my heart and I will search for yours. -[1895.64 --> 1902.64] Lord, you have my heart and I will search for yours. -[1902.64 --> 1906.64] Jesus, take my heart and lead me alone. -[1906.64 --> 1916.64] Lord, you have my heart and I will search for yours. -[1916.64 --> 1923.64] Let me be to you a sacrifice. -[1923.64 --> 1925.64] Let me be to you a sacrifice. -[1925.64 --> 1930.64] And I will praise you, Lord. -[1930.64 --> 1932.64] Lord, you have my heart and I will praise you. -[1932.64 --> 1937.64] Lord, you have my heart and I will sing upon you. -[1937.64 --> 1942.64] Lord, you have my heart and I will sing upon you. -[1942.64 --> 1947.64] And as you show your praise. -[1947.64 --> 1952.64] We'll see your glory. -[1952.64 --> 1959.64] We'll see your glory. -[1959.64 --> 1965.64] We'll see your glory. -[1965.64 --> 1970.64] We'll see your glory. -[1976.64 --> 1977.64] All right. -[1977.64 --> 1981.64] I'm going to invite all of the kids to come forward. -[1981.64 --> 1983.64] You're going to come join me right up here at the front. -[1983.64 --> 1984.64] Okay. -[1984.64 --> 1988.64] So any kids age three to kindergarten, you can come right up. -[1988.64 --> 1989.64] We'll sit right in the front. -[1989.64 --> 1990.64] Right like this. -[1990.64 --> 1991.64] Yeah. -[1991.64 --> 1992.64] Here comes another. -[1992.64 --> 1993.64] All right. -[1993.64 --> 1994.64] Here comes some more. -[1994.64 --> 1998.64] Come on up. -[1998.64 --> 2002.64] Come on up. -[2002.64 --> 2004.64] How's everybody's summer going? -[2004.64 --> 2005.64] Yeah. -[2005.64 --> 2006.64] Has it been so fun? -[2006.64 --> 2008.64] Are you enjoying the sunshine? -[2008.64 --> 2009.64] Yeah. -[2009.64 --> 2010.64] Yeah. -[2010.64 --> 2012.64] Well, we're going to go to children's worship time right now. -[2012.64 --> 2013.64] But before we go, I'd like to pray. -[2013.64 --> 2014.64] Okay. -[2014.64 --> 2015.64] And then we'll do the kids blessing. -[2015.64 --> 2016.64] Is that a good idea? -[2016.64 --> 2017.64] Okay. -[2017.64 --> 2019.64] So let's fold our hands, close our eyes and let's do a prayer. -[2019.64 --> 2026.64] Father God, thank you that we could come to church this morning and that we could be here singing your praises and learning more about you. -[2026.64 --> 2033.64] We pray that as these kids go to children's worship time and as the adults stay back here, God, that we will learn more about you and how to love one another. -[2033.64 --> 2034.64] We pray this in your name. -[2034.64 --> 2035.64] Amen. -[2035.64 --> 2036.64] All right. -[2036.64 --> 2037.64] There's only six of us. -[2037.64 --> 2038.64] So we have to do this really loud. -[2038.64 --> 2041.64] We're going to say the Lord be with you really loudly together. -[2041.64 --> 2042.64] Okay. -[2042.64 --> 2043.64] To the whole church. -[2043.64 --> 2044.64] Are you ready? -[2044.64 --> 2045.64] Can we do it? -[2045.64 --> 2046.64] One, two, three. -[2046.64 --> 2051.64] The Lord be with you and also with you. -[2051.64 --> 2052.64] All right. -[2052.64 --> 2053.64] You can head off to children's worship time. -[2053.64 --> 2057.64] Thank you. -[2057.64 --> 2059.64] Thank you. -[2059.64 --> 2060.64] Thank you. -[2060.64 --> 2062.64] Thank you. -[2066.64 --> 2069.64] Thank you. -[2069.64 --> 2071.64] Thank you. -[2071.64 --> 2072.64] Good morning. -[2072.64 --> 2084.64] What folder though? -[2084.64 --> 2089.64] Hi, my name is Paul. -[2089.64 --> 2095.64] I'm an elder here at Langley Emanuel and it's my privilege to lead us in the family prayer. -[2095.64 --> 2099.64] Before that, a couple of announcements. -[2099.64 --> 2110.64] The funeral for Mike's mom, Alice Rurisma, will be held at Fort Langley Community Church at 1pm Tuesday this week. -[2111.64 --> 2120.64] And next week is going to be Lord's Supper again and we ask you to take that time to prepare yourselves for that. -[2120.64 --> 2127.64] Think about that and ask the spirit to be with you for that time. -[2127.64 --> 2133.64] Let's go to our Father in prayer. -[2133.64 --> 2143.64] Father in heaven, you made the earth on which we stand. -[2143.64 --> 2150.64] You gave us the air which we breathe and the beauty in the sky which we stand beneath. -[2150.64 --> 2152.64] How vast is your creation. -[2152.64 --> 2158.64] How immeasurable is the delicate balance and detail that we see. -[2158.64 --> 2167.64] Psalm 46 says, God is our refuge and strength and ever present help in trouble. -[2167.64 --> 2175.64] Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea. -[2175.64 --> 2181.64] Though the waters roar and foam, the mountains quake with their surging. -[2182.64 --> 2189.64] There's a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. -[2190.64 --> 2196.64] God is with her and she will not fall. God will help her at the break of day. -[2196.64 --> 2205.64] Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall. He lifts his voice and the earth melts. -[2205.64 --> 2210.64] As we hear these words, we stand in awe of you, O Lord. -[2210.64 --> 2217.64] And even so, you chase after us like a shepherd watches his sheep. -[2217.64 --> 2222.64] You know us by name and pour out your grace through your redeeming love. -[2223.64 --> 2229.64] We gather here in your name this morning to sing your praises and hear and study your word. -[2229.64 --> 2232.64] We give you thanks for bringing us together as a church. -[2233.64 --> 2236.64] We pray that you would bless us in our worship. -[2237.64 --> 2242.64] As we have confessed our sin and accepted by faith your promised forgiveness. -[2242.64 --> 2249.64] We thank you, Father, for this Lord's Day, for bringing your people into a preview of your kingdom. -[2250.64 --> 2254.64] We know we can't truly comprehend the nature of your kingdom. -[2255.64 --> 2261.64] But on this day, right here, right now, we know that it is wonderful and glorious. -[2262.64 --> 2267.64] We thank you, O God, for Christ's church as we know it and see it around the world. -[2268.64 --> 2270.64] And pray for your blessing on it. -[2270.64 --> 2273.64] And we pray for those who are persecuted for your name. -[2273.64 --> 2279.64] Thank you for your mercy and grace for always being there when we need you. -[2280.64 --> 2286.64] When days are long and our troubles heavy, you are there to walk beside us. -[2287.64 --> 2292.64] We have all come with individual and personal needs. -[2292.64 --> 2296.64] Needs that we may not have shared with anyone else. -[2297.64 --> 2300.64] But you know us and the struggles and the burdens we are facing. -[2300.64 --> 2307.64] We mourn with the Ruizma family at the passing of Mike's mom, Alice, last week. -[2308.64 --> 2314.64] May the peace of Christ and the hope of the resurrection bring comfort to all who mourn her loss. -[2314.64 --> 2321.64] We pray for Amy Bongers as she had to undergo a second surgery on her eye. -[2322.64 --> 2331.64] We pray for Amy Kron as she has been in the hospital for the last number of weeks receiving treatment and care for her lung cancer. -[2331.64 --> 2338.64] We pray for Amy and Wim and their daughters, Tanya and Danielle and Melanie. -[2339.64 --> 2344.64] We pray for Paul Howling, Daniel's father who fell at work. -[2344.64 --> 2349.64] We ask for your healing and grace to give him minimal pain and smooth recovery. -[2350.64 --> 2357.64] We pray for the strained relationship between Louise Kondo's parents and her brother and sister-in-law. -[2358.64 --> 2361.64] And we ask you to give continued healing to Ellen White. -[2362.64 --> 2366.64] We also celebrate with the Baker family. -[2367.64 --> 2373.64] Leah and Adam Schroeder were married and we ask that -[2374.64 --> 2376.64] you bless their life together. -[2377.64 --> 2383.64] We pray for those who are pregnant during the hot summer months and ask for healthy pregnancies and energy for each day. -[2387.64 --> 2390.64] During this time of year there are many forest fires happening. -[2391.64 --> 2396.64] We pray for safety for the firefighters, the pilots, the ground crews and support staff. -[2397.64 --> 2400.64] We ask that you will watch and keep care of those who are being evacuated. -[2400.64 --> 2409.64] We pray for Sylvia Welfing who undergoes surgery and needs to convolence at home for some time. -[2410.64 --> 2411.64] We ask for continued healing there. -[2412.64 --> 2415.64] Summertime and vacation is here. -[2416.64 --> 2421.64] We pray for safe travels and a time of rejuvenation for our church family members. -[2421.64 --> 2433.64] We ask for those who are caring for their aging parents that you give peace and patience and strength on both sides of those relationships. -[2433.64 --> 2439.64] O Lord continue to keep those who mourn the loss of a loved one. -[2440.64 --> 2450.64] Whether recently or in the past we ask that you continue to help them find their new normal however long that lasts. -[2450.64 --> 2456.64] We ask for those who are struggling with their mental health and those who are struggling with their mental health. -[2457.64 --> 2461.64] Whatever the reason may be that they may feel your presence walking alongside them. -[2462.64 --> 2468.64] And we continue to think of and pray for those who are struggling with their mental health. -[2469.64 --> 2472.64] And those that walk alongside and support them. -[2472.64 --> 2477.64] O God we pray hear us. -[2478.64 --> 2481.64] Look upon the list of our concerns. -[2482.64 --> 2484.64] We know that you knew it before we wrote it down. -[2485.64 --> 2491.64] And we know that you know better than us what must be prayed in each of these circumstances. -[2492.64 --> 2496.64] And we ask for your Holy Spirit to complete that for us. -[2496.64 --> 2500.64] Look into the deep recesses of our hearts. -[2501.64 --> 2505.64] The pains, the fears and the bitterness, our distresses and our disappointments. -[2506.64 --> 2516.64] We lay these all before you and ask that by your Holy Spirit they may be prayed for effectively in the groanings that we cannot utter. -[2516.64 --> 2524.64] We read in your scriptures Father that your Son prayed that we might be one. -[2525.64 --> 2531.64] And we ask that your Spirit will continue to continually be about the work of bringing that true. -[2532.64 --> 2536.64] We give you thanks O God especially for the ongoing ministries of this church. -[2537.64 --> 2541.64] And we ask that they continue to help us be a light to the communities around us. -[2541.64 --> 2549.64] We pray for our church leaders, Pastor Kevin and Josh and all those who serve in the various capacities in different ministries. -[2550.64 --> 2554.64] And now as we open your word to us we ask that you will be with Pastor Chris. -[2555.64 --> 2561.64] That the words he speaks may be the work, may work in our hearts through your Spirit. -[2562.64 --> 2566.64] Father we pray that our eyes would be fixed on Jesus. -[2566.64 --> 2572.64] We pray that by your Spirit you might bring it to our hearts to believe and to trust in you. -[2573.64 --> 2575.64] For all things we pray, -[2576.64 --> 2579.64] them not because we are worthy, but in Jesus name alone. Amen. -[2579.64 --> 2580.64] Amen. -[2580.64 --> 2581.64] Amen. -[2581.64 --> 2582.64] Amen. -[2582.64 --> 2583.64] Amen. -[2583.64 --> 2584.64] Amen. -[2584.64 --> 2585.64] Amen. -[2585.64 --> 2586.64] Amen. -[2600.64 --> 2601.64] Amen. -[2601.64 --> 2606.64] This morning we're going to read from Hebrews 11, continuing in our series. -[2606.64 --> 2609.64] And I'm going to invite Nora to come to the front. -[2609.64 --> 2612.64] She's going to read it for us. -[2612.64 --> 2613.64] It will be on the screen. -[2613.64 --> 2617.64] If you have a Bible either in your hands or on a device, I encourage you to follow along. -[2617.64 --> 2627.64] By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. -[2628.64 --> 2631.64] By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country. -[2631.64 --> 2637.64] He lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. -[2637.64 --> 2642.64] For he was looking forward to this city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. -[2642.64 --> 2651.64] And by faith even Sarah, who was past childbearing age, was unable to bear children, because she considered him faithful, who had made the promise. -[2651.64 --> 2660.64] And so from this one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless on the sand as the seashore. -[2661.64 --> 2664.64] All these people were still living by faith when they died. -[2664.64 --> 2666.64] They did not receive the things promised. -[2666.64 --> 2672.64] They only saw them and welcomed them from a distance, admitting that they were foreigners and strangers on earth. -[2672.64 --> 2677.64] People who did say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. -[2677.64 --> 2681.64] If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had an opportunity to return. -[2681.64 --> 2685.64] Instead, they were longing for a better country, a heavenly one. -[2685.64 --> 2689.64] Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them. -[2689.64 --> 2694.64] By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice. -[2694.64 --> 2698.64] He who had embraced the promises was about to sacrifice his one and only son. -[2698.64 --> 2702.64] Even though God said to him, it is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned. -[2702.64 --> 2705.64] Abraham reasoned that God could even raise the dead. -[2705.64 --> 2708.64] And so in manner of speaking, he did receive Isaac back from the death. -[2708.64 --> 2710.64] This is the word of the Lord. -[2710.64 --> 2712.64] Thanks be to God. -[2713.64 --> 2714.64] Thanks sweetheart. -[2719.64 --> 2720.64] Thank you. -[2720.64 --> 2738.64] This summer we have been telling stories together. -[2738.64 --> 2748.64] Stories from people in the Old Testament and stories from people in our own lives that have shaped our faith and our experience of God. -[2748.64 --> 2754.46] Now we've been calling these stories faith hero stories, -[2754.46 --> 2764.30] and we've been challenging each other to share our own life and story of God at work in our midst, -[2764.98 --> 2766.22] and sharing that with other people. -[2769.10 --> 2778.16] Because here's the thing, stories and the kinds of stories we tell matter. -[2779.16 --> 2783.68] Not only from a religious perspective, but from a psychological perspective, -[2784.08 --> 2787.40] we use stories to make sense of the world. -[2788.22 --> 2792.94] We use stories to define ourselves and our histories, -[2793.50 --> 2799.62] and to bring clarity to what we do and who we are and how we be in the midst of each other. -[2800.18 --> 2806.16] We use stories to share our anticipation and our hope for a future. -[2806.16 --> 2811.62] Stories are part of your makeup. -[2812.98 --> 2816.94] Stories are part of how you see God at work in the world, -[2817.04 --> 2822.08] not only in the Bible and through these people, but even today and now. -[2823.34 --> 2826.50] And so the kinds of stories we tell matter. -[2826.50 --> 2836.52] The kinds of stories or the story that we root ourselves in is critical for how we see and be in the world. -[2837.48 --> 2839.60] Let me just make this point really quickly. -[2840.02 --> 2842.56] There's a few authors here. -[2842.78 --> 2845.98] Goheen and Bartholomew, in their book, The Drama of Scripture, -[2845.98 --> 2854.34] they say which story a person lives out of makes a huge difference in how one interprets events in life. -[2855.52 --> 2864.16] Leslie Newbigin, who was a missionary to India from England and a missiologist after someone who studies and teaches mission, -[2864.38 --> 2871.70] he says that the way we understand human life depends on what conception we have of the human story. -[2871.70 --> 2875.74] What is the real story of which my life is a part? -[2876.48 --> 2880.22] Similarly, Alistair MacIntyre, who's a philosopher, he says, -[2880.52 --> 2889.04] I can only answer the question, what am I to do, if I can answer the prior question of what story do I find myself a part? -[2890.16 --> 2894.54] The story you live and the stories you tell matter. -[2894.54 --> 2900.54] And sometimes we sell our own stories short. -[2901.20 --> 2905.32] Or sometimes we think our stories don't matter. -[2905.68 --> 2910.54] And we do this sort of from a 30,000 foot view as a system, but also individually. -[2913.54 --> 2915.58] There's a Hindu scholar. -[2916.18 --> 2917.86] His name is Badranath. -[2918.32 --> 2919.42] He's a Hindu scholar. -[2919.42 --> 2920.24] And he says, -[2920.70 --> 2926.96] As I read the Bible, I find in it a quite unique interpretation of universal history, -[2927.46 --> 2932.60] and therefore a unique understanding of the human person as a responsible actor in history. -[2933.44 --> 2939.90] You Christian missionaries have talked of the Bible as if it were simply another book of religion. -[2942.46 --> 2945.98] Sometimes we do that. -[2945.98 --> 2950.50] We miss the importance of the Bible. -[2950.70 --> 2955.02] We miss the importance of God's story of being at work in the world in creation, -[2955.44 --> 2959.30] in the rebellion of humanity against God and his work to redeem us, -[2959.40 --> 2965.50] and his eventual work to restore all things to his grand design and purpose. -[2966.44 --> 2968.38] We also do that in our own lives. -[2969.20 --> 2969.70] Right? -[2969.74 --> 2970.36] Where we think, -[2970.64 --> 2972.58] Ah, my story's kind of boring. -[2972.58 --> 2973.82] Right? -[2973.84 --> 2978.18] I don't have a grand, dramatic testimony of God changing everything about my life. -[2978.30 --> 2978.64] Right? -[2978.68 --> 2979.72] We look at our lives and we go, -[2979.80 --> 2980.22] You know what? -[2980.26 --> 2981.66] I've been raised in the church. -[2981.66 --> 2982.72] I've grown up here. -[2982.88 --> 2984.40] I've gone to youth group. -[2984.50 --> 2985.82] I became a young adult. -[2986.62 --> 2988.32] Maybe I got married here. -[2988.40 --> 2989.08] I had kids. -[2989.16 --> 2989.90] They were baptized. -[2990.26 --> 2992.26] My kids are now going through youth, -[2992.34 --> 2993.24] or they're young adults, -[2993.24 --> 2995.18] and they're having kids who are getting baptized. -[2995.98 --> 2997.20] I look at my life, -[2997.24 --> 3000.12] and I just don't ever see a time where God wasn't active, -[3000.30 --> 3001.28] where I didn't know him. -[3001.28 --> 3003.56] And that's kind of boring. -[3004.94 --> 3006.18] I've got to tell you, -[3006.50 --> 3009.82] as someone who has a bit of a different story than that, -[3010.34 --> 3012.78] that's the story I long for with my kids. -[3013.40 --> 3014.80] That's the one I pray for. -[3015.46 --> 3015.90] Right? -[3015.96 --> 3019.80] And I think the huge blessing and promise of God in that, -[3019.90 --> 3024.84] in seeing those kinds of stories as testimonies of God's faithfulness. -[3025.36 --> 3028.26] But sometimes we sell our own stories short. -[3028.26 --> 3030.64] This morning, -[3031.42 --> 3035.62] as we zero in together on the story of Abraham, -[3036.42 --> 3038.34] now if you know the story of Abraham, -[3038.60 --> 3040.38] he wasn't always called Abraham. -[3040.64 --> 3042.00] He starts off as Abram, -[3042.04 --> 3043.40] and then eventually his name is changed. -[3043.74 --> 3045.34] I'm going to refer to him as Abraham, -[3045.72 --> 3048.06] because that seems to be the one we're all familiar with. -[3048.14 --> 3051.26] And the end of the story is the part that really matters at the end. -[3051.32 --> 3053.40] And so I'm going to use his name from the end of the story, -[3053.46 --> 3055.14] even if I'm reading it back into the beginning. -[3055.14 --> 3057.46] But in the story of Abraham, -[3057.78 --> 3060.98] we are going to look and hopefully be challenged -[3060.98 --> 3067.64] to see how God uses our story for his glory. -[3068.76 --> 3073.32] Because the story of Abraham becomes the story of the church, -[3073.56 --> 3077.82] and the calling of Abraham is the calling of the church. -[3078.84 --> 3082.02] And so here's what I hope that we will see this morning. -[3082.02 --> 3088.14] Abraham was called to go into a land he did not know, -[3088.22 --> 3090.34] a land he knew not of, -[3090.52 --> 3094.32] and he went because of the promises of God. -[3095.88 --> 3099.84] Similarly, my contention to you is that we, as a church, -[3099.88 --> 3104.18] are being called to go into a land we know not of, -[3104.18 --> 3107.06] and like Abraham, -[3107.46 --> 3111.34] we must rely on the promises of God -[3111.34 --> 3113.62] in order to go forward -[3113.62 --> 3117.90] and to see what God will do with our story. -[3118.94 --> 3121.92] Now, to make the most sense of Abraham's story, -[3122.16 --> 3123.40] we need to start from the beginning, -[3124.00 --> 3126.48] before Abraham is introduced. -[3126.88 --> 3130.04] Start in the story of Genesis, -[3130.36 --> 3132.00] where you can read about Abraham. -[3132.00 --> 3133.78] You have Adam and Eve, -[3133.90 --> 3136.32] who are the first created humans, -[3136.50 --> 3138.52] and out of their bonding, -[3138.60 --> 3139.48] you have Cain and Abel. -[3139.56 --> 3142.62] We looked at the story of Abel earlier in this series. -[3144.90 --> 3148.18] They have a third son named Seth. -[3149.10 --> 3151.12] And then through a number of generations, -[3151.70 --> 3153.24] one of Seth's descendants, -[3153.56 --> 3155.14] many, many years later, is Noah. -[3155.84 --> 3157.52] Now, with Noah, we know the story, -[3157.58 --> 3158.70] and again, we've looked at it. -[3158.70 --> 3160.74] There's the sort of great reset, right? -[3161.66 --> 3163.58] And Noah's oldest son, -[3163.64 --> 3166.20] who entered into the ark with Noah -[3166.20 --> 3168.82] and his wife and brothers and their wives, -[3168.92 --> 3170.04] his oldest son, -[3171.30 --> 3172.52] named Seth, -[3173.88 --> 3174.66] or Shem, -[3174.84 --> 3176.90] carries the line forward, -[3177.66 --> 3179.44] again, a number of generations, -[3179.44 --> 3182.24] to a man named Terah. -[3183.30 --> 3184.90] Terah, we know, -[3184.90 --> 3186.92] is Abraham's father. -[3188.14 --> 3191.88] Terah lives in the land of Ur of the Chaldeans, -[3192.18 --> 3196.58] which is sort of east of modern-day Israel in that area. -[3197.68 --> 3200.40] Now, in Joshua 24, verse 2, -[3200.60 --> 3202.10] Joshua says to the people, -[3202.26 --> 3204.46] as they are coming back into the land, -[3204.54 --> 3205.94] having gone through the conquest, -[3206.40 --> 3208.50] Joshua says to all the people, -[3208.50 --> 3209.88] this is what the Lord, -[3210.02 --> 3211.42] the God of Israel, says, -[3211.94 --> 3213.64] long ago, your ancestors, -[3213.94 --> 3214.98] including Terah, -[3215.14 --> 3217.06] the father of Abraham and Nahor, -[3217.64 --> 3219.46] lived beyond the Euphrates River -[3219.46 --> 3222.36] and worshipped other gods. -[3223.24 --> 3224.56] And it's that last line, -[3224.68 --> 3225.76] and worshipped other gods, -[3225.80 --> 3228.28] that I want us to just hold to for a moment. -[3228.96 --> 3230.22] Because from Noah, -[3230.46 --> 3231.40] in the story of Noah, -[3231.48 --> 3232.72] you have this one family -[3232.72 --> 3235.38] that is the sign of hope for the world -[3235.38 --> 3237.22] and the promise of God, right, -[3237.30 --> 3239.08] comes to us through them. -[3239.94 --> 3242.56] To the generations down to Terah, -[3243.04 --> 3244.76] hope and that faith, -[3245.00 --> 3246.82] that belief in the creator God, -[3246.98 --> 3248.84] it's been lost. -[3250.02 --> 3251.44] It's gone, right? -[3251.52 --> 3253.38] Terah worshipped other gods. -[3254.22 --> 3256.76] So there's no hope for humanity left. -[3256.82 --> 3259.52] There's no memory of the living God. -[3259.64 --> 3261.80] There's no hope in the land. -[3261.80 --> 3263.88] And so hope has to come -[3263.88 --> 3265.80] from outside of the land. -[3266.92 --> 3268.32] This is where God comes in. -[3269.96 --> 3271.12] God comes to Abraham, -[3271.42 --> 3272.30] and he says, -[3272.34 --> 3273.38] it starts with a call, -[3273.50 --> 3274.00] he says, -[3274.44 --> 3275.48] leave your country, -[3275.80 --> 3276.48] your people, -[3276.66 --> 3277.84] and your father's household, -[3278.02 --> 3279.34] and go to the land -[3279.34 --> 3281.12] I will show you. -[3282.76 --> 3283.64] Now hear this, right? -[3283.68 --> 3285.42] Unless God calls you, -[3285.82 --> 3288.44] his promises will never be real to you. -[3289.54 --> 3291.10] But then notice, right, -[3291.10 --> 3292.34] in Abraham's story -[3292.34 --> 3294.30] and what Hebrews is picking up on -[3294.30 --> 3295.38] for us -[3295.38 --> 3298.92] is that this is God-active language. -[3299.12 --> 3301.30] This is God at work in the world -[3301.30 --> 3304.16] in the midst of his people, right? -[3304.22 --> 3305.06] God is at work, -[3305.16 --> 3308.50] but it's also church-active language. -[3308.70 --> 3311.06] It's also us-active language. -[3311.20 --> 3312.80] We have to respond. -[3312.96 --> 3315.08] We have to be part of God's work -[3315.08 --> 3315.60] in the world -[3315.60 --> 3317.64] because of his promises -[3317.64 --> 3318.98] to the world. -[3318.98 --> 3322.02] And God gives these kinds of promises -[3322.02 --> 3323.76] all throughout Scripture. -[3323.90 --> 3324.64] We don't have time. -[3324.80 --> 3326.26] We're going to go through each one, -[3326.34 --> 3327.10] but let me give you just -[3327.10 --> 3328.42] an indicative sampling. -[3329.28 --> 3331.00] Jeremiah 1, verse 5, -[3331.50 --> 3333.30] Before I formed you in the womb, -[3333.40 --> 3334.22] I knew you. -[3334.48 --> 3335.54] Before you were born, -[3335.68 --> 3337.18] I set you apart. -[3337.66 --> 3339.02] That is, I gave you a purpose, -[3339.18 --> 3339.96] he says to Jeremiah. -[3340.44 --> 3342.56] Isaiah 46, verse 4, -[3342.56 --> 3344.84] Even to your old age and gray hairs, -[3344.98 --> 3345.84] I am he. -[3346.18 --> 3348.34] I am he who will sustain you. -[3348.44 --> 3349.44] I have made you. -[3349.74 --> 3350.86] I will carry you. -[3351.08 --> 3352.42] I will sustain you. -[3352.42 --> 3354.60] And I will rescue you. -[3355.20 --> 3358.26] The promises of God for his people. -[3358.44 --> 3359.80] And then Jeremiah 29, 11, -[3360.16 --> 3362.00] For I know the plans I have for you, -[3362.12 --> 3362.84] declares the Lord. -[3362.96 --> 3364.10] Plans to prosper you -[3364.10 --> 3365.16] and not to harm you. -[3365.28 --> 3366.46] Plans to give you a hope -[3366.46 --> 3367.84] and a future. -[3369.20 --> 3370.76] Over and over and over again -[3370.76 --> 3371.36] in Scripture, -[3371.60 --> 3373.58] just like spoken to Abraham, -[3373.90 --> 3377.54] God's promises are many and sure. -[3378.38 --> 3380.34] And with his call, -[3380.34 --> 3382.76] those promises pull us -[3382.76 --> 3385.56] into unknown places. -[3389.90 --> 3393.14] In his book on Christian leadership -[3393.14 --> 3394.66] in the 21st century, -[3395.20 --> 3396.40] Todd Bolsinger, -[3397.18 --> 3398.72] he asks the question, -[3398.72 --> 3400.86] what does it look like -[3400.86 --> 3401.90] for the church -[3401.90 --> 3403.86] to go off the map? -[3405.44 --> 3407.00] Now he's using that phrase intentionally. -[3407.14 --> 3408.30] He, in his book, -[3408.42 --> 3409.90] bases it on the story -[3409.90 --> 3411.80] of Lewis and Clark. -[3412.96 --> 3413.98] Lewis and Clark -[3413.98 --> 3415.86] in the age of American expansionism -[3416.50 --> 3419.32] were mapping out -[3419.32 --> 3421.32] the westward growth -[3421.32 --> 3422.54] of the country. -[3423.38 --> 3425.14] And the plan that they had -[3425.14 --> 3425.70] at the beginning -[3425.70 --> 3427.56] was to canoe -[3427.56 --> 3429.62] down the Missouri River -[3429.62 --> 3430.74] and to the west -[3430.74 --> 3432.04] until they hit -[3432.04 --> 3432.86] the next ocean. -[3434.22 --> 3435.16] And so they packed -[3435.16 --> 3436.02] their gear -[3436.02 --> 3437.08] into the canoe -[3437.08 --> 3438.52] and away they went. -[3439.60 --> 3440.82] And for a time, -[3440.94 --> 3441.16] right, -[3441.20 --> 3441.72] it was good -[3441.72 --> 3442.46] and that worked. -[3442.78 --> 3443.40] They tracked -[3443.40 --> 3444.54] mile after mile -[3444.54 --> 3445.38] down the river -[3445.38 --> 3446.88] paddling away -[3446.88 --> 3447.72] from horizon -[3447.72 --> 3448.78] in the morning -[3448.78 --> 3450.18] to the next horizon -[3450.18 --> 3451.26] in the evening. -[3451.42 --> 3452.70] Away they went. -[3452.92 --> 3453.74] Down and down -[3453.74 --> 3454.76] they went for weeks -[3454.76 --> 3455.52] and for months. -[3457.50 --> 3458.20] But you know -[3458.20 --> 3458.62] what happened? -[3460.84 --> 3461.82] They ran into -[3461.82 --> 3462.82] a little mountain range -[3462.82 --> 3464.66] called the Rockies. -[3465.82 --> 3466.84] And all of a sudden, -[3467.00 --> 3467.58] their canoe -[3467.58 --> 3469.10] was no longer -[3469.10 --> 3469.82] the right tool -[3469.82 --> 3470.44] for the job. -[3471.86 --> 3472.18] Right? -[3472.22 --> 3473.50] They had to reimagine -[3473.50 --> 3474.56] the journey. -[3474.70 --> 3475.24] They had to make -[3475.24 --> 3476.14] a new plan. -[3476.80 --> 3476.92] Right? -[3476.94 --> 3477.58] The equipment -[3477.58 --> 3478.54] that they had, -[3478.80 --> 3479.08] right, -[3479.28 --> 3480.68] that they prepared for -[3480.68 --> 3481.84] was based off -[3481.84 --> 3482.56] of a map -[3482.56 --> 3483.72] that they had -[3483.72 --> 3484.42] already made -[3484.42 --> 3485.28] but they were -[3485.28 --> 3485.92] off the map. -[3487.12 --> 3488.04] They were somewhere -[3488.04 --> 3488.94] totally new. -[3490.42 --> 3490.92] A canoe -[3490.92 --> 3491.98] isn't going to help -[3491.98 --> 3492.86] you get up a mountain. -[3494.96 --> 3495.72] And so they had -[3495.72 --> 3496.56] to figure out -[3496.56 --> 3498.04] how to traverse it. -[3499.26 --> 3500.10] Bolsinger's point -[3500.10 --> 3500.88] in that book -[3500.88 --> 3501.34] is that -[3501.34 --> 3502.60] that's where -[3502.60 --> 3503.74] the church is -[3503.74 --> 3505.66] in the 21st century. -[3506.58 --> 3507.02] Right? -[3507.06 --> 3508.18] In the 21st century -[3508.18 --> 3509.12] western world, -[3509.12 --> 3510.64] we've been canoeing -[3510.64 --> 3511.84] along just fine -[3511.84 --> 3512.66] for maybe -[3512.66 --> 3513.60] a thousand years. -[3515.54 --> 3516.64] But now the Rockies -[3516.64 --> 3517.42] are in front of us. -[3519.08 --> 3520.20] Maybe they're even here. -[3521.82 --> 3523.10] We're off the map -[3523.10 --> 3525.24] and we need to come up -[3525.24 --> 3526.26] with something new -[3526.26 --> 3527.34] to traverse -[3527.34 --> 3527.90] what's ahead. -[3528.90 --> 3529.36] Right? -[3529.42 --> 3530.48] We have never been -[3530.48 --> 3531.06] the church -[3531.06 --> 3532.48] in the 21st century. -[3533.66 --> 3534.88] We've never been -[3534.88 --> 3535.44] Christians -[3535.44 --> 3536.54] in an increasingly -[3536.54 --> 3537.74] post-Christian -[3537.74 --> 3538.84] society. -[3539.12 --> 3541.82] But it's only -[3541.82 --> 3542.38] going to get -[3542.38 --> 3543.22] more difficult -[3543.22 --> 3544.50] to be faithful -[3544.50 --> 3545.64] disciples of Jesus -[3545.64 --> 3546.52] in the modern -[3546.52 --> 3547.84] western world. -[3549.22 --> 3550.00] That is, -[3550.06 --> 3550.72] if we want to -[3550.72 --> 3551.54] hang on to -[3551.54 --> 3552.86] our distinctives -[3552.86 --> 3553.66] about being Christian, -[3553.72 --> 3554.66] if we want to hang on -[3554.66 --> 3556.16] to the peculiarities -[3556.16 --> 3557.24] that make us -[3557.24 --> 3558.12] the people of God. -[3559.32 --> 3559.64] Right? -[3559.70 --> 3560.86] There will come a day, -[3560.90 --> 3562.38] if it hasn't already come, -[3562.78 --> 3563.96] when the presumption -[3563.96 --> 3565.48] of Christian privilege -[3565.48 --> 3567.30] will no longer -[3567.30 --> 3567.98] be possible. -[3567.98 --> 3568.08] people. -[3569.78 --> 3570.02] Now, -[3570.86 --> 3573.46] if you've heard me -[3573.46 --> 3574.32] on this before, -[3574.50 --> 3575.48] you know that part -[3575.48 --> 3575.92] of me, -[3577.20 --> 3577.98] as terrifying -[3577.98 --> 3578.94] as it may be, -[3580.12 --> 3580.94] thinks that's probably -[3580.94 --> 3581.70] a good thing. -[3583.76 --> 3583.98] Right? -[3584.06 --> 3585.78] When you can't tell -[3585.78 --> 3586.62] the difference -[3586.62 --> 3587.38] between people -[3587.38 --> 3588.02] who profess -[3588.02 --> 3588.88] to be Christian -[3588.88 --> 3589.98] from people -[3589.98 --> 3591.28] who act -[3591.28 --> 3592.02] or profess -[3592.02 --> 3592.56] blatantly -[3592.56 --> 3594.30] against Christianity, -[3594.30 --> 3596.06] you've got a problem. -[3597.78 --> 3598.54] And there are -[3598.54 --> 3599.02] some times -[3599.02 --> 3599.50] we look around -[3599.50 --> 3599.80] the world, -[3599.88 --> 3600.56] that's what we see. -[3601.52 --> 3602.22] When people -[3602.22 --> 3603.52] who attend church -[3603.52 --> 3604.62] look and act -[3604.62 --> 3605.12] and talk -[3605.12 --> 3606.08] exactly the same -[3606.08 --> 3606.98] as everyone else, -[3607.64 --> 3608.58] except for those -[3608.58 --> 3609.86] hour and a half -[3609.86 --> 3611.74] or two hours -[3611.74 --> 3612.26] if you're here -[3612.26 --> 3613.52] on a communion Sunday, -[3613.78 --> 3615.88] that's a problem. -[3615.88 --> 3619.06] But that's not -[3619.06 --> 3619.94] all that I mean -[3619.94 --> 3620.88] when I talk -[3620.88 --> 3621.94] about losing -[3621.94 --> 3622.82] the presumption -[3622.82 --> 3624.12] of privilege. -[3625.38 --> 3626.38] Matt Tuninga -[3626.38 --> 3627.84] is a professor -[3627.84 --> 3628.54] of ethics -[3628.54 --> 3629.52] at Calvin Seminary. -[3630.56 --> 3631.50] He's wondered -[3631.50 --> 3632.20] about this -[3632.20 --> 3633.14] in his own writing -[3633.14 --> 3633.72] when it comes -[3633.72 --> 3634.76] to ethics. -[3634.98 --> 3635.44] He says that -[3635.44 --> 3636.16] no longer -[3636.16 --> 3636.88] can you talk -[3636.88 --> 3638.10] about ethics, -[3638.60 --> 3639.46] the way people -[3639.46 --> 3640.16] should behave -[3640.16 --> 3642.26] or certain behaviors, -[3642.26 --> 3643.14] assuming -[3643.14 --> 3644.76] a universal -[3644.76 --> 3645.64] moral order. -[3647.12 --> 3647.88] No longer, -[3648.12 --> 3649.06] and let's be honest, -[3649.46 --> 3650.16] it hasn't been -[3650.16 --> 3651.00] this way for a while, -[3651.84 --> 3652.76] especially in Europe -[3652.76 --> 3653.64] and increasingly -[3653.64 --> 3654.22] in Canada, -[3654.78 --> 3655.88] can you say -[3655.88 --> 3657.24] the Bible says so, -[3658.16 --> 3659.18] so go and do it? -[3660.40 --> 3661.14] Or the Bible -[3661.14 --> 3662.16] doesn't say so, -[3662.50 --> 3663.30] so don't do it. -[3665.20 --> 3666.18] For instance, -[3667.04 --> 3667.88] the Bible -[3667.88 --> 3668.78] has a really -[3668.78 --> 3670.22] high bar -[3670.22 --> 3671.98] for sexual ethics, -[3671.98 --> 3672.90] for single people -[3672.90 --> 3673.74] and for married -[3673.74 --> 3674.48] people alike. -[3675.26 --> 3676.52] And that high bar -[3676.52 --> 3677.30] isn't given -[3677.30 --> 3678.26] to prevent -[3678.26 --> 3679.60] your flourishing -[3679.60 --> 3680.34] or to steal -[3680.34 --> 3680.98] your joy, -[3681.26 --> 3682.48] that high bar -[3682.48 --> 3683.58] is actually given -[3683.58 --> 3684.78] to increase -[3684.78 --> 3685.76] your joy, -[3685.92 --> 3686.96] to increase -[3686.96 --> 3687.86] your opportunity -[3687.86 --> 3688.66] for flourishing, -[3688.80 --> 3690.62] for being a human being -[3690.62 --> 3692.00] fully alive. -[3692.48 --> 3694.18] Because that high bar -[3694.18 --> 3695.78] reflects God's design -[3695.78 --> 3696.60] and his intent -[3696.60 --> 3698.24] for our life. -[3699.86 --> 3701.08] There's a third century -[3701.08 --> 3702.16] church father -[3702.16 --> 3703.10] named Aaron Neus. -[3703.22 --> 3703.80] He says that -[3703.80 --> 3705.26] the glory of God -[3705.26 --> 3706.54] is the human being -[3706.54 --> 3707.50] fully alive. -[3708.44 --> 3709.02] And so, -[3709.18 --> 3710.12] as human beings -[3710.12 --> 3711.60] pursuing the glory -[3711.60 --> 3711.94] of God, -[3712.02 --> 3713.42] that's where we find -[3713.42 --> 3714.98] our joy. -[3715.08 --> 3715.88] That's where we find -[3715.88 --> 3716.34] what it means -[3716.34 --> 3717.46] to be fully human, -[3718.00 --> 3718.70] fully alive. -[3719.86 --> 3721.24] But in our churches -[3721.24 --> 3723.50] and maybe -[3723.50 --> 3725.20] in our homes, -[3725.20 --> 3726.88] we've got such -[3726.88 --> 3727.74] a hard time -[3727.74 --> 3728.46] talking about -[3728.46 --> 3730.06] sex and sexuality -[3730.06 --> 3731.28] for single people -[3731.28 --> 3732.66] and for married people. -[3733.56 --> 3734.42] And when it comes -[3734.42 --> 3735.44] to practice, -[3735.70 --> 3736.82] many of us prove -[3736.82 --> 3737.38] that we don't -[3737.38 --> 3738.28] really believe -[3738.28 --> 3739.74] what we read -[3739.74 --> 3740.62] or what maybe -[3740.62 --> 3741.60] the pastor says -[3741.60 --> 3742.46] on Sunday. -[3742.56 --> 3743.44] We don't really believe -[3743.44 --> 3744.60] what the Bible says -[3744.60 --> 3745.60] about sexual ethics -[3745.60 --> 3747.00] as for our flourishing -[3747.00 --> 3748.14] and for our joy. -[3748.54 --> 3748.90] Instead, -[3749.30 --> 3749.96] we default -[3749.96 --> 3750.94] to our own ideas. -[3752.66 --> 3753.04] Right at Root, -[3753.04 --> 3753.74] we think we've got -[3753.74 --> 3754.96] a better plan. -[3755.14 --> 3756.16] We've got it figured out. -[3757.42 --> 3758.22] And this happens -[3758.22 --> 3759.04] over and over again. -[3759.14 --> 3759.26] Right? -[3759.26 --> 3760.30] We have the same idea -[3760.30 --> 3761.20] around abortion -[3761.20 --> 3762.70] or end-of-life issues -[3762.70 --> 3763.86] about medical assistance -[3763.86 --> 3764.38] and dying -[3764.38 --> 3765.62] or drug use -[3765.62 --> 3766.90] and safe injection sites. -[3767.08 --> 3768.18] And I want to be -[3768.18 --> 3768.80] really clear. -[3769.52 --> 3770.30] I'm not trying to say -[3770.30 --> 3771.10] that any of these -[3771.10 --> 3772.30] are simple issues -[3772.30 --> 3773.38] and that if we -[3773.38 --> 3774.62] just read the Bible, -[3774.78 --> 3775.26] all Christians -[3775.26 --> 3776.20] would agree on them. -[3777.46 --> 3778.28] I'm simply making -[3778.28 --> 3778.78] the point -[3778.78 --> 3780.10] that you can -[3780.10 --> 3781.48] no longer assume -[3781.48 --> 3782.18] a position -[3782.18 --> 3783.18] is valid -[3783.18 --> 3784.70] because it happens -[3784.70 --> 3786.18] to be the Christian position. -[3787.34 --> 3788.54] Once that was true, -[3789.90 --> 3790.94] that is no longer true. -[3792.02 --> 3792.72] In fact, -[3792.80 --> 3794.12] if you try to do that, -[3794.16 --> 3794.88] you'll likely get -[3794.88 --> 3795.66] more opposition -[3795.66 --> 3797.32] in the public sphere. -[3798.26 --> 3799.26] And this is new. -[3799.84 --> 3800.70] This is unknown -[3800.70 --> 3802.26] and an unprecedented -[3802.26 --> 3803.02] landscape -[3803.02 --> 3804.16] for us as the church. -[3804.28 --> 3805.40] We are off the map. -[3806.60 --> 3807.04] And so, -[3807.12 --> 3808.18] we've got to ask ourselves, -[3808.60 --> 3809.54] what does it mean -[3809.54 --> 3810.40] to be disciples -[3810.40 --> 3811.38] of Jesus? -[3811.38 --> 3811.98] What does it mean -[3811.98 --> 3812.96] to be the church, -[3812.96 --> 3814.62] to do church, -[3815.62 --> 3816.80] when like Abraham, -[3817.08 --> 3817.64] we are called -[3817.64 --> 3818.40] into a land -[3818.40 --> 3819.26] we know not of? -[3821.60 --> 3821.92] Now, -[3822.28 --> 3823.12] don't hear what -[3823.12 --> 3823.64] I'm not saying, -[3823.72 --> 3823.86] right? -[3823.90 --> 3824.50] Because in the midst -[3824.50 --> 3825.14] of all of this, -[3825.24 --> 3826.44] I am not challenging -[3826.44 --> 3828.06] the sovereignty of God. -[3828.16 --> 3829.14] I am not questioning -[3829.14 --> 3830.32] the authority -[3830.32 --> 3831.44] or the value -[3831.44 --> 3832.14] of the Bible -[3832.14 --> 3833.56] or the exclusivity -[3833.56 --> 3834.96] of Jesus' atonement, -[3835.34 --> 3835.58] right? -[3835.68 --> 3836.28] In fact, -[3836.40 --> 3837.42] what I'm confident of, -[3837.46 --> 3838.14] the answer to -[3838.14 --> 3839.02] how we do this -[3839.02 --> 3841.22] is not by compromising -[3841.22 --> 3842.18] or becoming -[3842.18 --> 3842.70] quote-unquote -[3842.70 --> 3843.22] progressive. -[3844.58 --> 3844.94] In fact, -[3845.00 --> 3845.60] I'm counting -[3845.60 --> 3846.62] on those old, -[3846.68 --> 3847.54] old truths -[3847.54 --> 3848.32] to be true, -[3848.44 --> 3849.36] those orthodox -[3849.36 --> 3850.52] statements of faith -[3850.52 --> 3851.14] to be true -[3851.14 --> 3852.52] in order for us -[3852.52 --> 3853.68] to step confidently -[3853.68 --> 3856.02] into this unknown future. -[3856.56 --> 3857.32] But the context -[3857.32 --> 3858.00] we face -[3858.00 --> 3859.26] is different, -[3859.88 --> 3860.10] right? -[3860.12 --> 3861.46] And how we live -[3861.46 --> 3861.98] and present -[3861.98 --> 3862.50] and preach -[3862.50 --> 3862.90] and teach -[3862.90 --> 3863.50] and practice -[3863.50 --> 3864.28] these truths -[3864.28 --> 3865.90] will be different. -[3865.90 --> 3867.28] Now, -[3867.32 --> 3868.10] I know some of you -[3868.10 --> 3868.86] are hearing this -[3868.86 --> 3869.46] and you're thinking, -[3869.84 --> 3869.96] well, -[3870.04 --> 3870.20] you know, -[3870.26 --> 3870.72] it's probably -[3870.72 --> 3871.60] not that different -[3871.60 --> 3872.60] as he's making -[3872.60 --> 3873.26] it out to be. -[3874.30 --> 3874.76] And I'm going -[3874.76 --> 3875.38] to be honest, -[3876.06 --> 3877.28] for a certain -[3877.28 --> 3879.42] generation of you -[3879.42 --> 3880.90] living here -[3880.90 --> 3881.54] in Langley, -[3882.34 --> 3883.30] the Bible belt -[3883.30 --> 3884.78] of British Columbia, -[3885.24 --> 3886.40] it still feels -[3886.40 --> 3887.14] pretty safe. -[3888.12 --> 3888.94] It still feels -[3888.94 --> 3889.62] pretty easy. -[3891.78 --> 3892.56] But if you're -[3892.56 --> 3893.28] in your 20s, -[3893.28 --> 3895.30] you don't feel -[3895.30 --> 3896.04] that same thing. -[3897.52 --> 3897.92] If you're -[3897.92 --> 3898.88] in your 30s, -[3899.56 --> 3900.08] you're going, -[3900.20 --> 3900.40] yeah, -[3900.56 --> 3901.72] that's not -[3901.72 --> 3902.38] really comfortable -[3902.38 --> 3904.36] for me anymore. -[3906.28 --> 3907.08] And so, -[3907.94 --> 3908.74] in this -[3908.74 --> 3909.40] uncharted -[3909.40 --> 3910.60] territory, -[3910.88 --> 3912.64] and if you -[3912.64 --> 3913.92] are confident -[3913.92 --> 3914.80] and secure, -[3915.44 --> 3916.72] please help -[3916.72 --> 3917.64] those of us -[3917.64 --> 3918.56] who aren't -[3918.56 --> 3919.72] or those of us -[3919.72 --> 3920.30] who are facing -[3920.30 --> 3920.94] these struggles -[3920.94 --> 3921.64] every day -[3921.64 --> 3922.72] in our lives. -[3922.72 --> 3923.26] we've got to -[3923.26 --> 3924.10] ask these questions. -[3924.24 --> 3924.68] What does it mean -[3924.68 --> 3925.42] for us to be -[3925.42 --> 3926.28] off the map -[3926.28 --> 3926.86] and how do we -[3926.86 --> 3927.84] equip ourselves -[3927.84 --> 3928.92] for it? -[3929.18 --> 3929.66] How do we -[3929.66 --> 3930.66] step into -[3930.66 --> 3931.74] this unknown -[3931.74 --> 3933.16] and let God's -[3933.16 --> 3933.64] promises -[3933.64 --> 3935.04] equip us? -[3936.28 --> 3936.88] Because that's -[3936.88 --> 3937.62] what Abraham did -[3937.62 --> 3938.14] and we're looking -[3938.14 --> 3938.68] to him as our -[3938.68 --> 3939.84] model, right? -[3939.98 --> 3940.60] God said, -[3940.84 --> 3941.62] go to the land -[3941.62 --> 3942.84] and Abraham -[3942.84 --> 3943.18] was like, -[3943.24 --> 3943.48] where? -[3943.74 --> 3944.28] What land? -[3945.36 --> 3945.84] And God said, -[3945.90 --> 3946.64] go to the land, -[3946.76 --> 3947.88] I will show you. -[3949.60 --> 3949.82] Right? -[3949.82 --> 3950.34] In verse 1, -[3950.40 --> 3950.82] he says that. -[3951.50 --> 3952.32] Go to the, -[3952.34 --> 3953.28] verse 1 of -[3953.28 --> 3954.44] the Genesis 12 -[3954.44 --> 3955.14] text, -[3955.22 --> 3955.48] he says, -[3955.82 --> 3956.46] go to the land, -[3956.56 --> 3957.84] I will show you. -[3957.90 --> 3958.58] It's a promise -[3958.58 --> 3959.70] and Abraham -[3959.70 --> 3960.66] has to step -[3960.66 --> 3961.34] forward -[3961.34 --> 3962.48] before it's -[3962.48 --> 3963.68] even visually -[3963.68 --> 3964.66] available to him. -[3964.78 --> 3965.54] Before it's -[3965.54 --> 3966.54] even real, -[3966.66 --> 3967.48] he has to step -[3967.48 --> 3968.38] into it. -[3969.08 --> 3969.48] And that's the -[3969.48 --> 3970.08] very faith -[3970.08 --> 3970.84] that Hebrews -[3970.84 --> 3971.78] then holds -[3971.78 --> 3973.12] Abraham up for -[3973.12 --> 3974.02] as an example -[3974.02 --> 3974.54] for us. -[3974.92 --> 3975.46] In verse 8, -[3976.18 --> 3977.08] Norah read for us, -[3977.08 --> 3977.94] by faith, -[3978.10 --> 3978.46] Abraham, -[3978.70 --> 3979.08] when called -[3979.08 --> 3980.04] to go to a place -[3980.04 --> 3980.54] he would later -[3980.54 --> 3981.36] receive as his -[3981.36 --> 3981.84] inheritance, -[3982.50 --> 3983.48] obeyed and went, -[3983.86 --> 3984.66] even though he -[3984.66 --> 3985.58] did not know -[3985.58 --> 3986.72] where he was -[3986.72 --> 3987.06] going. -[3988.70 --> 3989.60] And he went -[3989.60 --> 3991.50] and he made -[3991.50 --> 3992.04] a home -[3992.04 --> 3993.24] in that land. -[3994.40 --> 3995.14] And even though -[3995.14 --> 3995.72] he made a home -[3995.72 --> 3995.98] there, -[3996.06 --> 3997.28] he still lived, -[3997.36 --> 3997.76] we read, -[3997.84 --> 3998.56] as a stranger -[3998.56 --> 4000.06] and as a -[4000.06 --> 4000.46] foreigner -[4000.46 --> 4001.42] or a forever -[4001.42 --> 4002.04] foreigner. -[4003.40 --> 4004.16] And then if you -[4004.16 --> 4005.02] know Abraham's -[4005.02 --> 4005.48] story, -[4005.64 --> 4006.54] the same pattern -[4006.54 --> 4007.60] continues. -[4008.56 --> 4008.82] Right? -[4008.90 --> 4009.54] He's go to a -[4009.54 --> 4009.80] land. -[4009.92 --> 4010.16] Where? -[4010.32 --> 4010.80] What land? -[4011.10 --> 4011.94] I'll show you. -[4012.42 --> 4012.56] Right? -[4012.60 --> 4012.86] He says, -[4013.00 --> 4014.12] you will have -[4014.12 --> 4014.56] a son. -[4015.24 --> 4015.60] When? -[4016.14 --> 4016.74] God says, -[4016.80 --> 4017.16] effectively, -[4017.38 --> 4017.94] I'll tell you -[4017.94 --> 4018.22] later. -[4018.68 --> 4019.14] Right now, -[4019.22 --> 4019.66] just wait. -[4020.98 --> 4021.46] And then when -[4021.46 --> 4022.12] he does finally -[4022.12 --> 4022.76] have a son, -[4022.94 --> 4023.32] Isaac, -[4023.82 --> 4024.38] God says, -[4024.48 --> 4024.94] take him up -[4024.94 --> 4025.36] a mountain. -[4026.42 --> 4026.78] Abraham's like, -[4026.84 --> 4027.08] why? -[4028.94 --> 4029.50] And God says, -[4029.52 --> 4029.84] you'll see -[4029.84 --> 4030.26] when you get -[4030.26 --> 4030.54] there. -[4031.90 --> 4032.60] The Christian -[4032.60 --> 4034.00] life is one -[4034.00 --> 4034.64] of following -[4034.64 --> 4035.48] after God's -[4035.48 --> 4036.48] leading when -[4036.48 --> 4037.26] you don't know -[4037.26 --> 4037.74] where it's -[4037.74 --> 4038.30] going to take -[4038.30 --> 4039.10] you or when -[4039.10 --> 4039.64] you don't know -[4039.64 --> 4040.04] how you're -[4040.04 --> 4040.36] going to get -[4040.36 --> 4040.64] there. -[4041.12 --> 4041.72] The Christian -[4041.72 --> 4042.46] life is one -[4042.46 --> 4042.88] that takes -[4042.88 --> 4043.48] the promises -[4043.48 --> 4044.20] of God -[4044.20 --> 4045.18] and then tests -[4045.18 --> 4046.16] them in the -[4046.16 --> 4046.84] unknown of -[4046.84 --> 4047.38] what is ahead. -[4048.16 --> 4048.82] That's what -[4048.82 --> 4049.56] Abraham had -[4049.56 --> 4050.16] to do and -[4050.16 --> 4050.64] that's what -[4050.64 --> 4051.44] our churches -[4051.44 --> 4051.88] are being -[4051.88 --> 4052.34] called to -[4052.34 --> 4053.24] do now. -[4054.22 --> 4054.90] And this -[4054.90 --> 4055.34] is what -[4055.34 --> 4056.02] that faith -[4056.02 --> 4057.10] looks like. -[4057.34 --> 4057.44] Right? -[4057.52 --> 4058.28] Stepping out -[4058.28 --> 4058.90] of our -[4058.90 --> 4060.20] known zones, -[4060.32 --> 4060.76] out of our -[4060.76 --> 4061.64] comfort zones, -[4061.86 --> 4062.54] into the -[4062.54 --> 4062.92] unknown, -[4063.26 --> 4063.72] into the -[4063.72 --> 4064.24] uncomfortable. -[4064.24 --> 4066.38] It's not -[4066.38 --> 4067.06] faith to -[4067.06 --> 4067.52] do what -[4067.52 --> 4068.12] you already -[4068.12 --> 4068.54] know. -[4069.02 --> 4069.56] It doesn't -[4069.56 --> 4070.10] take faith -[4070.10 --> 4070.72] to do what -[4070.72 --> 4071.26] you're already -[4071.26 --> 4071.82] able to -[4071.82 --> 4072.10] do. -[4072.76 --> 4073.44] It takes -[4073.44 --> 4074.00] faith to -[4074.00 --> 4074.22] say, -[4074.62 --> 4074.98] Lord, I -[4074.98 --> 4075.30] don't know -[4075.30 --> 4075.58] how to -[4075.58 --> 4076.12] do this. -[4076.72 --> 4077.30] It takes -[4077.30 --> 4077.76] faith to -[4077.76 --> 4078.10] say, God, -[4078.14 --> 4078.38] I don't -[4078.38 --> 4078.76] know where -[4078.76 --> 4079.34] we're going, -[4080.34 --> 4081.20] but I'm -[4081.20 --> 4081.62] faithfully -[4081.62 --> 4083.30] following in -[4083.30 --> 4083.68] obedience. -[4084.26 --> 4084.90] It takes -[4084.90 --> 4085.46] faith to -[4085.46 --> 4086.52] say, we -[4086.52 --> 4086.98] don't have -[4086.98 --> 4087.66] a map for -[4087.66 --> 4088.04] this. -[4089.42 --> 4089.68] And so, -[4089.76 --> 4090.16] God, do -[4090.16 --> 4091.24] something in -[4091.24 --> 4092.50] our midst and -[4092.50 --> 4093.08] show us a -[4093.08 --> 4093.64] way forward. -[4095.24 --> 4095.82] The question -[4095.82 --> 4096.52] isn't what -[4096.52 --> 4097.14] are we going -[4097.14 --> 4098.00] to do or -[4098.00 --> 4098.58] where are we -[4098.58 --> 4099.10] going because -[4099.10 --> 4100.10] God has an -[4100.10 --> 4100.96] emerging future -[4100.96 --> 4101.84] for us and -[4101.84 --> 4102.54] for you and -[4102.54 --> 4103.70] for your life and -[4103.70 --> 4104.28] for all of our -[4104.28 --> 4104.58] churches. -[4104.72 --> 4105.70] And he knows -[4105.70 --> 4107.72] it, but he -[4107.72 --> 4109.12] says, I -[4109.12 --> 4109.52] will show -[4109.52 --> 4109.78] you. -[4111.22 --> 4111.62] And so, -[4111.68 --> 4111.96] you've got to -[4111.96 --> 4112.24] step. -[4114.00 --> 4114.62] So, our -[4114.62 --> 4115.26] question really -[4115.26 --> 4116.28] is how are we -[4116.28 --> 4117.34] going to step? -[4118.42 --> 4118.76] Right? -[4118.80 --> 4119.12] With what -[4119.12 --> 4119.86] attitude and -[4119.86 --> 4120.28] with what -[4120.28 --> 4120.92] faith? -[4122.26 --> 4122.74] I want you -[4122.74 --> 4123.04] to notice -[4123.04 --> 4123.62] something about -[4123.62 --> 4125.08] Abraham's story, -[4125.16 --> 4125.78] about how he -[4125.78 --> 4126.38] could step -[4126.38 --> 4126.72] out. -[4126.82 --> 4127.28] Notice what -[4127.28 --> 4128.36] God says to -[4128.36 --> 4128.48] him. -[4128.56 --> 4129.16] God promises -[4129.16 --> 4129.70] him that he -[4129.70 --> 4130.08] will be a -[4130.08 --> 4130.72] great nation -[4130.72 --> 4131.70] and that from -[4131.70 --> 4133.06] him all of -[4133.06 --> 4133.80] God's chosen -[4133.80 --> 4134.72] people would -[4134.72 --> 4135.36] come, that -[4135.36 --> 4136.04] this nation -[4136.04 --> 4136.68] would bless -[4136.68 --> 4137.68] every nation. -[4139.40 --> 4140.32] But where -[4140.32 --> 4141.18] does that -[4141.18 --> 4143.36] promise start? -[4143.54 --> 4143.92] Where does -[4143.92 --> 4144.66] that blessing -[4144.66 --> 4145.60] every nation -[4145.60 --> 4146.48] start? -[4148.48 --> 4149.20] Starts with -[4149.20 --> 4149.60] the sun. -[4149.60 --> 4152.76] God told -[4152.76 --> 4154.32] Abraham that -[4154.32 --> 4155.50] his wife, -[4155.86 --> 4156.64] Sarah, then -[4156.64 --> 4157.54] called Sarai, -[4157.68 --> 4158.16] would have a -[4158.16 --> 4158.42] son. -[4159.62 --> 4160.34] She is -[4160.34 --> 4161.20] barren and -[4161.20 --> 4162.30] Abraham is -[4162.30 --> 4162.80] old. -[4169.14 --> 4170.36] So old -[4170.36 --> 4171.58] that our -[4171.58 --> 4172.48] text says -[4172.48 --> 4173.60] that, -[4173.60 --> 4185.72] God says, -[4186.14 --> 4188.14] look to the -[4188.14 --> 4188.40] sun. -[4189.84 --> 4190.50] Look to the -[4190.50 --> 4191.24] promise of a -[4191.24 --> 4191.94] sun as a -[4191.94 --> 4193.22] guarantee of -[4193.22 --> 4193.84] the world -[4193.84 --> 4195.46] blessing father -[4195.46 --> 4196.04] of many -[4196.04 --> 4196.52] nations. -[4196.90 --> 4197.40] Look to the -[4197.40 --> 4197.68] sun. -[4199.06 --> 4199.74] And underlying -[4199.74 --> 4200.96] God's radical -[4200.96 --> 4202.26] call to Abraham -[4202.26 --> 4203.62] to step out -[4203.62 --> 4204.48] in uncomfortable -[4204.48 --> 4205.52] faith into -[4205.52 --> 4206.14] the unknown -[4206.14 --> 4206.74] is this -[4206.74 --> 4207.54] banner, -[4207.90 --> 4208.48] look to the -[4208.48 --> 4208.76] sun. -[4210.40 --> 4211.02] And then -[4211.02 --> 4212.66] Isaac points -[4212.66 --> 4213.68] us to the -[4213.68 --> 4214.42] sun, the -[4214.42 --> 4214.86] true and -[4214.86 --> 4216.02] better sun, -[4217.22 --> 4217.66] the sun we -[4217.66 --> 4218.04] know to be -[4218.04 --> 4218.36] Jesus. -[4220.30 --> 4221.18] And Jesus -[4221.18 --> 4221.72] follows the -[4221.72 --> 4222.32] same pattern. -[4223.16 --> 4223.82] He left -[4223.82 --> 4225.14] his family, -[4225.34 --> 4226.46] his eternal -[4226.46 --> 4227.64] life-giving, -[4227.84 --> 4228.86] love-living, -[4229.04 --> 4229.90] trinity-dancing, -[4230.08 --> 4230.46] fellowship, -[4230.90 --> 4231.46] family, -[4231.46 --> 4232.00] father, -[4232.20 --> 4232.46] son, -[4232.54 --> 4232.86] and holy -[4232.86 --> 4233.16] spirit. -[4233.22 --> 4234.02] He gave -[4234.02 --> 4234.42] that up. -[4234.50 --> 4235.08] He emptied -[4235.08 --> 4235.76] himself of -[4235.76 --> 4235.92] that. -[4236.00 --> 4236.68] He left -[4236.68 --> 4237.32] the comfort -[4237.32 --> 4237.86] and the -[4237.86 --> 4238.56] security of -[4238.56 --> 4239.16] heaven and -[4239.16 --> 4239.92] he exchanged -[4239.92 --> 4240.54] that for a -[4240.54 --> 4241.26] world that -[4241.26 --> 4241.74] did not -[4241.74 --> 4242.48] recognize him. -[4243.32 --> 4243.84] He came to -[4243.84 --> 4244.22] his own, -[4244.28 --> 4244.70] but his own -[4244.70 --> 4245.18] didn't see -[4245.18 --> 4245.42] him, -[4245.78 --> 4246.62] though it -[4246.62 --> 4247.28] was created -[4247.28 --> 4247.96] by him. -[4249.08 --> 4249.80] The creator -[4249.80 --> 4251.20] Jesus condescended -[4251.20 --> 4252.62] such that he -[4252.62 --> 4253.42] had to learn -[4253.42 --> 4254.66] obedience and -[4254.66 --> 4255.34] that obedience -[4255.34 --> 4256.26] learned took -[4256.26 --> 4257.12] him to death, -[4257.40 --> 4258.42] even death on -[4258.42 --> 4258.98] a cursed -[4258.98 --> 4259.88] cross. -[4259.88 --> 4259.96] cross. -[4261.00 --> 4261.56] And in his -[4261.56 --> 4261.88] death, -[4262.00 --> 4262.88] he descended -[4262.88 --> 4264.26] into hell. -[4266.08 --> 4266.48] You think -[4266.48 --> 4267.24] Abraham had to -[4267.24 --> 4267.62] leave his -[4267.62 --> 4268.36] father behind? -[4269.32 --> 4270.02] Jesus was -[4270.02 --> 4271.10] forsaken by -[4271.10 --> 4271.62] his father. -[4272.00 --> 4272.38] You think -[4272.38 --> 4273.26] Abraham had to -[4273.26 --> 4273.94] go into a -[4273.94 --> 4274.54] land he knew -[4274.54 --> 4275.10] not of? -[4275.22 --> 4275.78] Jesus went -[4275.78 --> 4276.12] into the -[4276.12 --> 4276.58] abyss. -[4277.54 --> 4278.04] In the -[4278.04 --> 4278.38] garden, -[4278.64 --> 4279.30] Jesus prayed, -[4279.50 --> 4279.70] Father, -[4279.92 --> 4280.58] if it is at -[4280.58 --> 4281.26] all possible, -[4281.46 --> 4282.26] remove this -[4282.26 --> 4283.08] cup from -[4283.08 --> 4283.32] me. -[4284.32 --> 4284.86] And in -[4284.86 --> 4285.58] Job and in -[4285.58 --> 4286.22] Isaiah and -[4286.22 --> 4286.74] in Jeremiah, -[4287.10 --> 4287.70] you can see -[4287.70 --> 4288.08] that the -[4288.08 --> 4288.94] cup that -[4288.94 --> 4289.24] he is -[4289.24 --> 4290.12] referring to -[4290.12 --> 4290.80] there is -[4290.80 --> 4291.66] the cup of -[4291.66 --> 4292.48] God's wrath -[4292.48 --> 4293.24] against the -[4293.24 --> 4294.50] sin of all -[4294.50 --> 4295.38] people, the -[4295.38 --> 4296.00] sins of the -[4296.00 --> 4296.44] nations. -[4296.94 --> 4298.34] Jesus bears -[4298.34 --> 4298.70] it. -[4300.66 --> 4301.36] When God -[4301.36 --> 4301.94] calls you -[4301.94 --> 4302.50] then to a -[4302.50 --> 4303.20] new place, -[4303.54 --> 4304.06] to a land -[4304.06 --> 4304.34] you know -[4304.34 --> 4304.74] not of, -[4304.78 --> 4305.04] when God -[4305.04 --> 4305.60] calls you -[4305.60 --> 4306.08] off of the -[4306.08 --> 4306.76] map, he -[4306.76 --> 4307.18] says, -[4307.70 --> 4307.92] look to -[4307.92 --> 4308.44] the sun. -[4310.58 --> 4311.30] And here's -[4311.30 --> 4311.74] the thing, -[4311.90 --> 4312.02] right? -[4312.58 --> 4313.24] Right when -[4313.24 --> 4313.92] you look to -[4313.92 --> 4314.50] the sun, -[4315.86 --> 4316.38] right when -[4316.38 --> 4316.86] you look to -[4316.86 --> 4319.32] Jesus, especially -[4319.32 --> 4320.52] in this off -[4320.52 --> 4321.02] the map -[4321.02 --> 4321.62] increasingly -[4321.62 --> 4322.30] post-Christian -[4322.30 --> 4323.36] world, you -[4323.36 --> 4324.48] will look just -[4324.48 --> 4326.52] like Abraham, a -[4326.52 --> 4327.48] forever foreigner -[4327.48 --> 4329.04] in the land he -[4329.04 --> 4329.46] went into. -[4331.02 --> 4331.56] And because, -[4331.70 --> 4332.28] like Abraham, -[4332.46 --> 4333.20] notice in -[4333.20 --> 4333.90] verse 10 we -[4333.90 --> 4334.32] can read, -[4335.54 --> 4336.26] he was looking -[4336.26 --> 4337.02] for a city -[4337.02 --> 4338.08] without foundations -[4338.08 --> 4338.96] whose architect -[4338.96 --> 4340.60] was God. -[4341.26 --> 4341.74] And he was -[4341.74 --> 4342.60] looking beyond -[4342.60 --> 4343.86] this world -[4343.86 --> 4345.12] for fulfillment. -[4345.28 --> 4345.66] He was looking -[4345.66 --> 4346.30] beyond this -[4346.30 --> 4347.60] life for -[4347.60 --> 4348.46] purpose. -[4349.26 --> 4349.68] And then, -[4350.06 --> 4350.84] the writer of -[4350.84 --> 4351.54] Hebrews, it -[4351.54 --> 4352.74] seems, takes a -[4352.74 --> 4353.30] little bit of a -[4353.30 --> 4354.00] break in his -[4354.00 --> 4355.00] storytelling of -[4355.00 --> 4356.68] Abraham to -[4356.68 --> 4357.32] make a point -[4357.32 --> 4358.16] about all these -[4358.16 --> 4358.96] faith heroes. -[4359.50 --> 4359.64] Right? -[4359.70 --> 4360.12] We read, -[4360.94 --> 4361.84] all these people -[4361.84 --> 4362.76] were still living -[4362.76 --> 4363.52] by faith when -[4363.52 --> 4364.02] they died. -[4364.16 --> 4364.64] They did not -[4364.64 --> 4365.32] receive the -[4365.32 --> 4366.58] things promised. -[4366.84 --> 4367.66] They only saw -[4367.66 --> 4368.52] them and welcomed -[4368.52 --> 4369.16] them from a -[4369.16 --> 4370.50] distance, admitting -[4370.50 --> 4371.06] that they were -[4371.06 --> 4371.80] foreigners and -[4371.80 --> 4372.44] strangers on -[4372.44 --> 4372.70] earth. -[4373.28 --> 4373.80] And people who -[4373.80 --> 4374.56] say such things -[4374.56 --> 4375.20] show that they -[4375.20 --> 4375.86] are looking for -[4375.86 --> 4376.78] a country of -[4376.78 --> 4377.36] their own. -[4378.02 --> 4378.66] If they had -[4378.66 --> 4379.06] been thinking -[4379.06 --> 4379.52] of the country -[4379.52 --> 4380.18] they had left, -[4380.26 --> 4380.64] they would have -[4380.64 --> 4380.90] had the -[4380.90 --> 4381.54] opportunity to -[4381.54 --> 4381.88] return. -[4382.02 --> 4383.54] Instead, they -[4383.54 --> 4384.40] were longing -[4384.40 --> 4385.64] for a better -[4385.64 --> 4387.74] country, a -[4387.74 --> 4388.48] heavenly one. -[4390.58 --> 4390.76] Right? -[4390.80 --> 4391.46] Like Abraham, -[4392.32 --> 4393.16] like all of -[4393.16 --> 4394.10] these faith heroes, -[4394.40 --> 4395.56] we fix our -[4395.56 --> 4396.98] eyes on Jesus -[4396.98 --> 4398.16] and through -[4398.16 --> 4398.96] fixing our -[4398.96 --> 4399.82] eyes on him, -[4399.82 --> 4400.90] we fix them -[4400.90 --> 4401.64] on a future -[4401.64 --> 4403.30] secured, a future -[4403.30 --> 4404.14] of heaven and -[4404.14 --> 4405.06] earth made -[4405.06 --> 4406.38] as one, made -[4406.38 --> 4407.86] into one, a -[4407.86 --> 4408.38] future where -[4408.38 --> 4409.00] God's dwelling -[4409.00 --> 4409.98] place is now -[4409.98 --> 4412.02] with us here, a -[4412.02 --> 4412.94] future looking to -[4412.94 --> 4413.96] the return and -[4413.96 --> 4414.60] the resurrection -[4414.60 --> 4416.44] of all as -[4416.44 --> 4417.46] Jesus comes -[4417.46 --> 4418.12] back. -[4418.28 --> 4419.02] Jesus Christ -[4419.02 --> 4420.14] calls us -[4420.14 --> 4421.76] forward in -[4421.76 --> 4422.38] the present -[4422.38 --> 4423.56] because of -[4423.56 --> 4424.52] God's promise -[4424.52 --> 4425.66] of that great -[4425.66 --> 4426.46] and glorious -[4426.46 --> 4427.08] day. -[4427.88 --> 4428.48] And so, -[4428.76 --> 4429.40] remember, the -[4429.40 --> 4430.06] whole point of -[4430.06 --> 4430.64] Hebrews 11, -[4430.74 --> 4431.28] the whole point -[4431.28 --> 4431.98] of this Faith -[4431.98 --> 4433.42] Heroes series, -[4434.56 --> 4435.66] right, is to -[4435.66 --> 4437.02] the whole point -[4437.02 --> 4438.00] of you and -[4438.00 --> 4439.28] me telling our -[4439.28 --> 4441.06] stories is to -[4441.06 --> 4442.26] spur us -[4442.26 --> 4442.96] forward to -[4442.96 --> 4443.76] that great -[4443.76 --> 4444.36] day. -[4445.16 --> 4445.88] Hebrews 12 -[4445.88 --> 4447.04] says, -[4447.60 --> 4447.98] therefore, -[4449.26 --> 4449.96] and that means -[4449.96 --> 4450.60] this is it, -[4450.68 --> 4451.20] this is the -[4451.20 --> 4451.76] point, we've -[4451.76 --> 4452.32] told all of -[4452.32 --> 4453.00] these stories, -[4453.48 --> 4454.42] therefore, since -[4454.42 --> 4455.24] we are surrounded -[4455.24 --> 4456.12] by such a great -[4456.12 --> 4456.92] cloud of witnesses, -[4457.18 --> 4457.92] those are the -[4457.92 --> 4459.20] stories, let us -[4459.20 --> 4459.92] throw off -[4459.92 --> 4460.96] everything that -[4460.96 --> 4461.54] hinders and -[4461.54 --> 4462.18] the sin that -[4462.18 --> 4462.96] so easily -[4462.96 --> 4463.98] entangles and -[4463.98 --> 4464.56] let us run -[4464.56 --> 4465.34] with perseverance -[4465.34 --> 4466.28] the race marked -[4466.28 --> 4466.90] out for us, -[4467.34 --> 4468.50] fixing our eyes -[4468.50 --> 4469.50] on Jesus, the -[4469.50 --> 4470.42] pioneer and -[4470.42 --> 4471.62] perfecter of -[4471.62 --> 4472.30] our faith. -[4472.94 --> 4473.86] For the joy -[4473.86 --> 4475.14] set before him, -[4475.22 --> 4476.30] he endured the -[4476.30 --> 4477.78] cross, scorning -[4477.78 --> 4478.90] its shame, and -[4478.90 --> 4479.98] sat down at the -[4479.98 --> 4480.90] right hand of -[4480.90 --> 4482.26] the throne of -[4482.26 --> 4482.62] God. -[4484.82 --> 4485.44] You see, -[4485.50 --> 4486.02] what's off the -[4486.02 --> 4488.28] map to us is -[4488.28 --> 4488.94] all one big -[4488.94 --> 4489.68] picture to God. -[4493.42 --> 4494.22] And so here's -[4494.22 --> 4494.46] what we've -[4494.46 --> 4494.66] seen. -[4496.18 --> 4497.52] Abraham was -[4497.52 --> 4498.44] sent to a -[4498.44 --> 4499.44] land he knew -[4499.44 --> 4500.36] not of and -[4500.36 --> 4501.30] was not known -[4501.30 --> 4502.52] in to be a -[4502.52 --> 4503.62] blessing to the -[4503.62 --> 4504.10] world, a -[4504.10 --> 4504.74] blessing that -[4504.74 --> 4505.96] started with -[4505.96 --> 4506.32] the Son. -[4507.40 --> 4508.06] And Jesus, -[4508.42 --> 4509.02] the true and -[4509.02 --> 4509.92] better Son, -[4510.00 --> 4510.72] was sent into -[4510.72 --> 4511.46] a land he -[4511.46 --> 4512.52] knew of but -[4512.52 --> 4513.34] was not known -[4513.34 --> 4515.04] in to be a -[4515.04 --> 4516.04] blessing to the -[4516.04 --> 4516.32] world. -[4517.16 --> 4517.90] And now we, -[4517.90 --> 4518.60] as the -[4518.60 --> 4519.18] spiritual -[4519.18 --> 4520.22] brothers and -[4520.22 --> 4520.84] sisters of -[4520.84 --> 4521.34] Jesus and -[4521.34 --> 4521.86] the spiritual -[4521.86 --> 4522.54] sons and -[4522.54 --> 4523.60] daughters, heirs -[4523.60 --> 4524.50] of Abraham, -[4524.88 --> 4525.92] we are sent -[4525.92 --> 4527.08] into a land we -[4527.08 --> 4528.64] know not of and -[4528.64 --> 4529.66] we may no longer -[4529.66 --> 4531.56] be known in to -[4531.56 --> 4533.36] be a blessing to -[4533.36 --> 4533.82] the world. -[4535.22 --> 4536.14] And so let me -[4536.14 --> 4537.98] end with this -[4537.98 --> 4539.14] encouragement. -[4539.14 --> 4542.46] the truth of -[4542.46 --> 4543.80] the gospel is -[4543.80 --> 4544.96] that at the -[4544.96 --> 4545.92] name of Jesus -[4545.92 --> 4547.18] every knee will -[4547.18 --> 4548.38] bow and every -[4548.38 --> 4549.54] tongue confess in -[4549.54 --> 4551.12] heaven and on -[4551.12 --> 4552.20] earth and under -[4552.20 --> 4552.86] the earth that -[4552.86 --> 4554.48] Jesus Christ is -[4554.48 --> 4555.52] Lord to the -[4555.52 --> 4556.42] glory of God -[4556.42 --> 4557.20] the Father. -[4558.06 --> 4559.26] That is -[4559.26 --> 4560.92] true, that is -[4560.92 --> 4561.84] promised, that -[4561.84 --> 4562.92] is fixed. -[4563.16 --> 4564.80] God will be -[4564.80 --> 4565.82] glorified. -[4565.82 --> 4569.08] God, the -[4569.08 --> 4570.14] Son went -[4570.14 --> 4571.70] out because it -[4571.70 --> 4572.80] was his joy to -[4572.80 --> 4573.42] save you. -[4574.14 --> 4575.56] It was his joy to -[4575.56 --> 4577.08] find you and he -[4577.08 --> 4578.14] alone could do it. -[4578.38 --> 4579.48] He alone did it -[4579.48 --> 4581.78] and now you go -[4581.78 --> 4584.26] out never alone. -[4585.02 --> 4586.06] No matter how far -[4586.06 --> 4587.42] off the map we are -[4587.42 --> 4588.46] called to go, -[4588.92 --> 4590.16] Jesus went further. -[4590.36 --> 4591.30] No matter how far -[4591.30 --> 4593.00] off the map we might -[4593.00 --> 4594.32] find ourselves, he -[4594.32 --> 4595.44] will never leave -[4595.44 --> 4596.72] us nor forsake -[4596.72 --> 4596.96] us. -[4597.20 --> 4598.26] This is God's -[4598.26 --> 4599.44] gospel promise. -[4599.60 --> 4600.60] God will bless -[4600.60 --> 4601.76] you for the -[4601.76 --> 4602.04] journey. -[4602.12 --> 4602.88] That is, he will -[4602.88 --> 4603.78] make you ready. -[4604.12 --> 4605.24] He will equip -[4605.24 --> 4605.56] you. -[4608.16 --> 4609.32] He will turn -[4609.32 --> 4610.80] our canoes -[4610.80 --> 4611.96] into climbing -[4611.96 --> 4612.30] here. -[4613.94 --> 4614.40] And like -[4614.40 --> 4614.96] Abraham, -[4616.02 --> 4616.78] when God -[4616.78 --> 4617.86] called you as -[4617.86 --> 4619.02] a son or -[4619.02 --> 4619.72] daughter, he -[4619.72 --> 4620.84] gave you a -[4620.84 --> 4622.06] new name. -[4622.06 --> 4622.98] He gave you -[4622.98 --> 4624.20] life from -[4624.20 --> 4626.00] life and he -[4626.00 --> 4626.76] gave you life -[4626.76 --> 4628.20] from death -[4628.20 --> 4629.54] and by his -[4629.54 --> 4631.24] doing, you -[4631.24 --> 4631.88] didn't deserve -[4631.88 --> 4632.96] it, but he -[4632.96 --> 4633.44] did it. -[4634.80 --> 4635.62] And so now, -[4635.68 --> 4636.62] life that we -[4636.62 --> 4637.46] live in him -[4637.46 --> 4638.24] and with him -[4638.24 --> 4639.44] is lived on -[4639.44 --> 4640.42] the front lines -[4640.42 --> 4641.52] of obedience. -[4642.22 --> 4642.82] He calls -[4642.82 --> 4643.66] and we go. -[4644.30 --> 4645.10] We walk by -[4645.10 --> 4645.98] faith, not by -[4645.98 --> 4646.34] sight. -[4646.96 --> 4648.10] The faith that -[4648.10 --> 4649.06] unites us to -[4649.06 --> 4650.28] God sends us -[4650.28 --> 4651.32] out with -[4651.32 --> 4651.98] God. -[4652.24 --> 4652.98] The faith that -[4652.98 --> 4653.80] keeps us -[4653.80 --> 4655.12] secure is -[4655.12 --> 4655.90] the faith that -[4655.90 --> 4656.74] calls us to -[4656.74 --> 4657.40] give up our -[4657.40 --> 4657.88] security. -[4658.60 --> 4659.42] The faith that -[4659.42 --> 4660.28] unites us to -[4660.28 --> 4661.32] God who is our -[4661.32 --> 4662.50] comfort calls -[4662.50 --> 4663.38] us to the -[4663.38 --> 4664.00] uncomfortable. -[4667.18 --> 4668.08] We're called to -[4668.08 --> 4668.92] go to a place -[4668.92 --> 4669.84] we do not yet -[4669.84 --> 4670.82] know. -[4671.76 --> 4672.62] But will we -[4672.62 --> 4673.56] listen? -[4673.56 --> 4673.64] Listen. -[4673.64 --> 4681.56] shortly after -[4681.56 --> 4682.86] Rachel and I -[4682.86 --> 4683.32] were married, -[4683.86 --> 4685.46] we moved to -[4685.46 --> 4686.54] Grand Rapids, -[4686.64 --> 4686.90] Michigan -[4686.90 --> 4689.74] because I was -[4689.74 --> 4691.08] studying in -[4691.08 --> 4691.86] seminary there. -[4692.54 --> 4693.04] So we were -[4693.04 --> 4693.60] married for -[4693.60 --> 4694.82] just about a -[4694.82 --> 4695.96] month and -[4695.96 --> 4696.54] then we packed -[4696.54 --> 4697.34] all of our -[4697.34 --> 4698.80] possessions into -[4698.80 --> 4699.46] the back of a -[4699.46 --> 4699.92] little eight-foot -[4699.92 --> 4700.22] trailer. -[4700.32 --> 4700.78] We didn't have a -[4700.78 --> 4702.18] lot and we -[4702.18 --> 4702.44] went. -[4703.94 --> 4704.56] And we -[4704.56 --> 4705.16] studied together. -[4705.94 --> 4707.02] I took Rachel -[4707.02 --> 4708.10] from the comfort -[4708.10 --> 4709.08] of her home and -[4709.08 --> 4710.78] her family and -[4710.78 --> 4712.10] brought her to a -[4712.10 --> 4712.88] country that we -[4712.88 --> 4713.74] didn't know, a -[4713.74 --> 4714.52] city that we -[4714.52 --> 4715.18] didn't live in, -[4715.28 --> 4716.12] but we were -[4716.12 --> 4717.64] trying to step -[4717.64 --> 4718.38] forward in -[4718.38 --> 4719.30] response to -[4719.30 --> 4720.58] God's call on -[4720.58 --> 4721.24] my life. -[4722.00 --> 4722.56] She had to -[4722.56 --> 4723.12] come along for -[4723.12 --> 4723.52] the ride. -[4723.52 --> 4726.86] fast forward, -[4727.20 --> 4727.78] because this is -[4727.78 --> 4728.14] the point of -[4728.14 --> 4728.56] the story, -[4728.88 --> 4729.52] three years. -[4730.24 --> 4730.78] I'm finishing -[4730.78 --> 4731.78] up my -[4731.78 --> 4732.60] seminary degree. -[4733.74 --> 4734.74] I'm starting -[4734.74 --> 4735.44] to think about -[4735.44 --> 4736.08] where am I -[4736.08 --> 4736.52] going to be -[4736.52 --> 4737.22] called into -[4737.22 --> 4737.88] ministry and -[4737.88 --> 4738.66] into service and -[4738.66 --> 4739.30] what's that going -[4739.30 --> 4739.92] to look like. -[4740.02 --> 4740.70] And in the -[4740.70 --> 4741.30] Christian Reformed -[4741.30 --> 4742.30] Church, when -[4742.30 --> 4742.60] you're at -[4742.60 --> 4743.34] Calvin Seminary -[4743.34 --> 4744.02] in particular, -[4744.52 --> 4744.96] which is our -[4744.96 --> 4745.60] denominational -[4745.60 --> 4747.22] school, in -[4747.22 --> 4748.26] that last year, -[4748.52 --> 4749.24] you kind of get -[4749.24 --> 4750.44] a monthly update -[4750.44 --> 4751.18] of all the -[4751.18 --> 4751.90] churches that -[4751.90 --> 4752.32] are without -[4752.32 --> 4752.78] pastors. -[4753.52 --> 4754.36] You get this -[4754.36 --> 4754.92] list that's -[4754.92 --> 4755.46] sort of emailed -[4755.46 --> 4757.08] to you, and -[4757.08 --> 4757.60] then you can -[4757.60 --> 4758.88] do with that -[4758.88 --> 4759.82] list what you -[4759.82 --> 4759.98] will. -[4760.90 --> 4761.66] Well, there -[4761.66 --> 4762.00] was a few -[4762.00 --> 4763.06] churches in -[4763.06 --> 4764.52] Ontario that -[4764.52 --> 4764.96] were on that -[4764.96 --> 4765.34] list, and I -[4765.34 --> 4765.68] thought, okay, -[4765.74 --> 4766.22] I'll send them -[4766.22 --> 4767.94] a letter, and -[4767.94 --> 4768.92] then we'll see -[4768.92 --> 4769.40] what happens. -[4772.40 --> 4773.00] One of the -[4773.00 --> 4773.50] churches that I -[4773.50 --> 4774.00] ended up sending -[4774.00 --> 4774.66] a letter to -[4774.66 --> 4775.72] was Trinity -[4775.72 --> 4776.70] CRC in -[4776.70 --> 4776.88] St. -[4776.94 --> 4777.30] Catharines. -[4778.52 --> 4778.94] Trinity -[4778.94 --> 4779.88] emailed me -[4779.88 --> 4780.78] back, and -[4780.78 --> 4781.26] they said, -[4781.88 --> 4782.80] sorry, we're -[4782.80 --> 4783.22] not really -[4783.22 --> 4783.98] looking for -[4783.98 --> 4784.86] a student. -[4785.32 --> 4786.00] The last two -[4786.00 --> 4786.70] pastors we've -[4786.70 --> 4787.66] had here have -[4787.66 --> 4788.24] been students -[4788.24 --> 4788.78] straight out of -[4788.78 --> 4789.42] seminary, and -[4789.42 --> 4790.06] we're not sure -[4790.06 --> 4790.66] that's what we -[4790.66 --> 4791.36] need right now. -[4792.22 --> 4793.00] I said, okay, -[4793.10 --> 4793.74] no problem, -[4794.24 --> 4795.16] that's fine, -[4795.84 --> 4796.42] thank you for -[4796.42 --> 4796.98] getting back to -[4796.98 --> 4797.50] me, and then -[4797.50 --> 4798.04] the next email -[4798.04 --> 4798.82] came, but we -[4798.82 --> 4799.48] are looking for -[4799.48 --> 4800.42] pulpit supply on -[4800.42 --> 4801.28] May 15th if -[4801.28 --> 4801.74] you're around. -[4803.24 --> 4804.18] Okay, you -[4804.18 --> 4804.94] could pay me to -[4804.94 --> 4805.38] come out, -[4805.52 --> 4805.96] absolutely. -[4808.04 --> 4808.70] And so I -[4808.70 --> 4809.20] told Rachel -[4809.20 --> 4811.52] this, and -[4811.52 --> 4812.10] as we were -[4812.10 --> 4813.36] driving from -[4813.36 --> 4814.92] Grand Rapids -[4814.92 --> 4816.80] to St. -[4816.86 --> 4818.14] Catharines, she -[4818.14 --> 4819.40] said, Chris, -[4820.24 --> 4821.68] three years ago -[4821.68 --> 4822.94] when we moved -[4822.94 --> 4823.52] to Michigan, -[4824.24 --> 4825.54] God told me -[4825.54 --> 4826.72] that we are -[4826.72 --> 4827.28] going to St. -[4827.34 --> 4827.74] Catharines. -[4829.74 --> 4832.84] Now, if you -[4832.84 --> 4833.66] know Rachel, -[4833.80 --> 4834.98] my wife, you -[4834.98 --> 4835.64] know that that's -[4835.64 --> 4836.38] not her ordinary -[4836.38 --> 4837.28] way of speaking -[4837.28 --> 4838.02] about life and -[4838.02 --> 4838.30] faith. -[4839.48 --> 4840.16] And so when she -[4840.16 --> 4840.78] says something -[4840.78 --> 4842.56] like that, I -[4842.56 --> 4844.22] listen, and I -[4844.22 --> 4845.26] take that very -[4845.26 --> 4845.98] seriously. -[4846.94 --> 4847.66] And so we -[4847.66 --> 4848.92] went, and I'm -[4848.92 --> 4849.76] not sure of -[4849.76 --> 4850.62] this church who -[4850.62 --> 4851.26] doesn't want a -[4851.26 --> 4852.04] student, and my -[4852.04 --> 4852.66] wife who's like, -[4852.74 --> 4853.74] nope, God said -[4853.74 --> 4853.96] St. -[4854.02 --> 4854.98] Catharines, and -[4854.98 --> 4855.62] there's no reason -[4855.62 --> 4856.14] for that, let me -[4856.14 --> 4856.62] be clear, we have -[4856.62 --> 4857.42] no family, we -[4857.42 --> 4858.36] have no history in -[4858.36 --> 4858.52] St. -[4858.58 --> 4859.16] Catharines, no -[4859.16 --> 4859.62] connection. -[4861.64 --> 4862.66] I preach there, -[4863.28 --> 4864.16] I lead worship -[4864.16 --> 4864.72] there, I should -[4864.72 --> 4866.36] say, and I -[4866.36 --> 4867.16] and the chair of -[4867.16 --> 4867.50] the search -[4867.50 --> 4868.02] committee comes -[4868.02 --> 4868.40] up to me -[4868.40 --> 4868.96] afterwards, and -[4868.96 --> 4871.92] they go, so, we -[4871.92 --> 4872.66] weren't looking for -[4872.66 --> 4874.06] a student, but -[4874.06 --> 4874.70] maybe you're our -[4874.70 --> 4875.10] student. -[4876.66 --> 4878.34] Can we try again? -[4879.12 --> 4880.74] Okay, anyway, they -[4880.74 --> 4881.52] ended up calling me, -[4882.52 --> 4883.04] right, and we -[4883.04 --> 4883.92] ended up being -[4883.92 --> 4884.12] there. -[4884.26 --> 4884.74] Three years -[4884.74 --> 4886.70] before, God -[4886.70 --> 4887.48] laid it on Rachel's -[4887.48 --> 4888.72] heart that we -[4888.72 --> 4889.38] would go to this -[4889.38 --> 4890.04] place we knew -[4890.04 --> 4892.14] not of, and that -[4892.14 --> 4892.62] we would serve -[4892.62 --> 4892.88] there. -[4894.00 --> 4894.64] Fast forward -[4894.64 --> 4895.50] seven years, -[4896.36 --> 4897.26] I've been there -[4897.26 --> 4898.06] for seven years, -[4898.16 --> 4899.10] which is about as -[4899.10 --> 4900.24] long as first-time -[4900.24 --> 4901.16] pastors are in -[4901.16 --> 4901.96] their call, and so -[4901.96 --> 4902.56] I'm starting to -[4902.56 --> 4903.58] think, do we need -[4903.58 --> 4904.14] to go somewhere -[4904.14 --> 4904.46] else? -[4904.94 --> 4905.78] Is it that time? -[4906.50 --> 4907.36] But I didn't really -[4907.36 --> 4908.28] feel like it was, -[4908.68 --> 4908.88] right? -[4908.94 --> 4909.78] Things were good at -[4909.78 --> 4910.56] Trinity, the church -[4910.56 --> 4911.48] was doing well, -[4911.84 --> 4913.10] they still liked me -[4913.10 --> 4914.16] there, it seemed, -[4914.28 --> 4914.88] at least the ones -[4914.88 --> 4915.62] who talked to me -[4915.62 --> 4916.50] still liked me, -[4917.16 --> 4918.88] and so we weren't -[4918.88 --> 4920.78] rushing to get out, -[4921.48 --> 4922.22] but I started -[4922.22 --> 4923.72] wondering, maybe it's -[4923.72 --> 4925.96] time, and Rachel -[4925.96 --> 4927.52] said to me one -[4927.52 --> 4929.72] day, Chris, I -[4929.72 --> 4930.24] think God is -[4930.24 --> 4931.84] telling me we're -[4931.84 --> 4932.22] going to move -[4932.22 --> 4932.62] west. -[4935.34 --> 4936.34] And so based on -[4936.34 --> 4937.20] my experience of -[4937.20 --> 4938.00] Rachel hearing God -[4938.00 --> 4938.76] speak to her like -[4938.76 --> 4939.76] that, I took that -[4939.76 --> 4941.12] very seriously, well -[4941.12 --> 4941.62] here we are. -[4942.76 --> 4943.70] Three years later, -[4944.14 --> 4944.80] so God speaks, -[4945.06 --> 4945.84] gives Rachel three -[4945.84 --> 4946.90] years of warning -[4946.90 --> 4948.00] before he makes a -[4948.00 --> 4948.42] big change. -[4948.62 --> 4949.20] That's what we've -[4949.20 --> 4949.38] learned. -[4949.52 --> 4950.38] Three years later, -[4950.38 --> 4953.50] I think Pim or -[4953.50 --> 4955.36] someone, Pim at the -[4955.36 --> 4956.16] time or Leslie -[4956.16 --> 4957.06] reached out to me -[4957.06 --> 4958.76] and said, after I -[4958.76 --> 4959.44] reached out to you, -[4959.70 --> 4960.52] because Rachel found -[4960.52 --> 4961.74] it on the website -[4961.74 --> 4962.74] and said, hey, go -[4962.74 --> 4963.34] check this out. -[4965.78 --> 4968.62] Rachel is a person -[4968.62 --> 4969.56] in my life, and -[4969.56 --> 4970.20] she's not here this -[4970.20 --> 4971.32] morning, so I can -[4971.32 --> 4971.98] get away with saying -[4971.98 --> 4972.62] this without her -[4972.62 --> 4973.24] being mad at me. -[4974.28 --> 4975.10] Rachel is a person -[4975.10 --> 4977.06] in my life who -[4977.06 --> 4978.44] hears the call of -[4978.44 --> 4979.40] God to go to a -[4979.40 --> 4981.88] place and in -[4981.88 --> 4983.64] obedience responds. -[4985.22 --> 4986.32] She models that -[4986.32 --> 4987.78] for me, and I -[4987.78 --> 4988.76] listen, and I -[4988.76 --> 4990.64] look to her, and I -[4990.64 --> 4992.42] see God leading -[4992.42 --> 4993.46] us and shaping -[4993.46 --> 4995.00] our story through -[4995.00 --> 4996.46] her faithful -[4996.46 --> 4997.42] obedience to his -[4997.42 --> 4997.72] call. -[5000.18 --> 5001.48] The reason we -[5001.48 --> 5002.70] tell stories like -[5002.70 --> 5004.46] this is because -[5004.46 --> 5005.24] we are off the -[5005.24 --> 5005.54] map. -[5006.82 --> 5007.74] We have not -[5007.74 --> 5008.70] gotten or we -[5008.70 --> 5009.72] have lost the -[5009.72 --> 5011.20] ability to see -[5011.20 --> 5012.42] God at work in -[5012.42 --> 5013.48] the world today. -[5014.76 --> 5016.08] These stories -[5016.08 --> 5018.28] are our -[5018.28 --> 5019.94] seeing God at -[5019.94 --> 5021.10] work in the -[5021.10 --> 5022.40] world, and so -[5022.40 --> 5023.98] tell these -[5023.98 --> 5024.82] stories. -[5025.38 --> 5026.92] As you go into -[5026.92 --> 5028.28] this week, tell -[5028.28 --> 5029.58] someone about -[5029.58 --> 5030.24] where you have -[5030.24 --> 5030.96] seen God at -[5030.96 --> 5031.24] work. -[5031.52 --> 5032.98] As you go into -[5032.98 --> 5034.16] this week, tell -[5034.16 --> 5035.38] someone about the -[5035.38 --> 5036.52] joy of knowing -[5036.52 --> 5038.58] Jesus and see -[5038.58 --> 5039.48] what God does in -[5039.48 --> 5039.94] this moment. -[5040.28 --> 5041.60] As you go into -[5041.60 --> 5043.76] this week, cry -[5043.76 --> 5044.42] out with -[5044.42 --> 5045.88] someone, Lord, I -[5045.88 --> 5047.34] need to see you -[5047.34 --> 5049.24] more and more in -[5049.24 --> 5049.80] my life. -[5050.52 --> 5051.44] Share these -[5051.44 --> 5052.06] stories. -[5052.12 --> 5052.78] And that starts -[5052.78 --> 5053.24] here. -[5053.86 --> 5054.28] Absolutely. -[5054.44 --> 5055.32] It starts after -[5055.32 --> 5055.60] church. -[5055.66 --> 5055.98] We're going to have -[5055.98 --> 5056.54] coffee and -[5056.54 --> 5056.90] fellowship. -[5057.76 --> 5058.82] Don't just talk -[5058.82 --> 5060.64] about how your -[5060.64 --> 5061.40] tomatoes are doing -[5061.40 --> 5063.24] this year, or your -[5063.24 --> 5063.84] squash. -[5063.84 --> 5064.60] I see some on -[5064.60 --> 5065.00] the harvest -[5065.00 --> 5065.40] table. -[5066.86 --> 5067.84] Where is God? -[5068.84 --> 5069.48] Where is he -[5069.48 --> 5070.08] calling you? -[5071.02 --> 5071.68] Where is he -[5071.68 --> 5072.30] sending you? -[5072.96 --> 5073.58] And how can we -[5073.58 --> 5075.00] hear him and -[5075.00 --> 5076.38] see him at -[5076.38 --> 5076.66] work? -[5077.28 --> 5078.72] As you go, as -[5078.72 --> 5080.12] disciples and as -[5080.12 --> 5081.68] a church, we are -[5081.68 --> 5082.50] called out. -[5082.60 --> 5083.40] We are called off -[5083.40 --> 5083.72] the map. -[5083.80 --> 5084.88] We are called into -[5084.88 --> 5085.68] places we have -[5085.68 --> 5086.74] never been before. -[5087.64 --> 5088.60] And we may not -[5088.60 --> 5091.28] have a map, but -[5091.28 --> 5091.86] we have the word. -[5091.86 --> 5093.94] And the word of -[5093.94 --> 5095.26] God is living and -[5095.26 --> 5096.00] active, and the -[5096.00 --> 5096.72] word of God is -[5096.72 --> 5098.12] eternally true. -[5098.34 --> 5099.48] And when we look -[5099.48 --> 5101.50] to the word, we -[5101.50 --> 5102.98] see the sun. -[5105.22 --> 5105.96] And when we see -[5105.96 --> 5107.98] the sun, we see -[5107.98 --> 5109.04] the one who gave -[5109.04 --> 5110.70] up ultimate comfort -[5110.70 --> 5113.00] so that we now -[5113.00 --> 5114.02] might be called to -[5114.02 --> 5115.18] give up our -[5115.18 --> 5116.36] comforts. -[5117.22 --> 5118.60] He did it for you, -[5118.72 --> 5120.22] and now you get -[5120.22 --> 5121.46] to do it for him. -[5121.86 --> 5126.54] And that, that, my -[5126.54 --> 5128.08] friends, my brothers -[5128.08 --> 5129.62] and sisters, that, my -[5129.62 --> 5130.96] fellow pilgrims on -[5130.96 --> 5133.22] this journey, that is -[5133.22 --> 5136.06] where true joy is -[5136.06 --> 5136.96] found. -[5137.78 --> 5138.06] Amen? -[5138.90 --> 5140.18] Let's pray together. -[5140.18 --> 5147.54] Holy God, as we go, we -[5147.54 --> 5148.04] go with you. -[5149.30 --> 5151.10] As you sent Abraham -[5151.10 --> 5152.26] and called him, you -[5152.26 --> 5154.76] send us and call us. -[5155.00 --> 5156.78] And so open our eyes -[5156.78 --> 5158.58] to see all the ways -[5158.58 --> 5160.12] that you are at work -[5160.12 --> 5160.70] in the world. -[5161.76 --> 5163.06] We may be off the -[5163.06 --> 5164.36] map, but we are in -[5164.36 --> 5164.78] your care. -[5164.78 --> 5166.76] And so as we go, may -[5166.76 --> 5168.28] we know the love -[5168.28 --> 5169.46] of Christ. -[5170.06 --> 5171.14] Send us out now -[5171.14 --> 5172.46] into the unknown -[5172.46 --> 5173.16] and into the -[5173.16 --> 5174.30] uncomfortable with -[5174.30 --> 5175.30] the powerful -[5175.30 --> 5177.32] truth of who -[5177.32 --> 5178.56] you are and -[5178.56 --> 5179.00] what you have -[5179.00 --> 5180.18] done, and with -[5180.18 --> 5180.86] the powerful -[5180.86 --> 5182.50] promise of what -[5182.50 --> 5183.60] you are still -[5183.60 --> 5184.72] yet doing. -[5185.30 --> 5186.16] In Jesus' name -[5186.16 --> 5186.64] we pray. -[5187.34 --> 5187.70] Amen. -[5187.70 --> 5191.72] This song will -[5191.72 --> 5192.86] likely be new for -[5192.86 --> 5194.06] many of you, but -[5194.06 --> 5195.78] it's pretty easy to -[5195.78 --> 5196.60] catch on to, so -[5196.60 --> 5197.42] join us when you're -[5197.42 --> 5197.74] comfortable. -[5197.88 --> 5198.42] Please stand. -[5198.42 --> 5219.74] as you go, may you -[5219.74 --> 5221.34] know the love of Christ, -[5222.06 --> 5223.80] how deep and long, -[5224.10 --> 5225.76] how high and wide. -[5225.76 --> 5228.84] as you leave, may you -[5228.84 --> 5232.00] seek to minimize, and find -[5232.00 --> 5234.24] to stand to be your -[5234.24 --> 5235.66] life. -[5236.16 --> 5239.00] May you go in love of your -[5239.00 --> 5242.18] Father God, may you go in -[5242.18 --> 5245.76] the grace of Christ, may you -[5245.76 --> 5248.50] go in power of the Spirit -[5248.50 --> 5251.74] now to bring you glory with -[5251.74 --> 5253.34] your life. -[5253.34 --> 5256.26] As you go, may you know the -[5256.26 --> 5258.96] power of grace, and spend -[5258.96 --> 5261.02] the strength for what's to -[5261.02 --> 5261.74] come. -[5262.94 --> 5265.02] As you leave, may you feel -[5265.02 --> 5267.54] his mighty hand, guiding -[5267.54 --> 5269.50] your steps, and the race -[5269.50 --> 5270.42] you run. -[5271.78 --> 5274.58] May you go in love of your -[5274.58 --> 5277.72] Father God, may you go in -[5277.72 --> 5279.56] the grace of Christ. -[5279.56 --> 5283.38] may you go in power of the -[5283.38 --> 5286.36] Spirit now, bring your glory -[5286.36 --> 5289.18] with your life. -[5289.18 --> 5290.18] God bless you. -[5290.18 --> 5291.06] As you go, may you feel his -[5291.06 --> 5303.14] heart to bless, the ones with -[5303.14 --> 5305.86] bless, the blind and lost. -[5306.76 --> 5309.32] As you leave, may you be the -[5309.32 --> 5312.06] light of Christ, and show your -[5312.06 --> 5315.66] hope that you see in the cross. -[5315.66 --> 5323.66] May you go in love of your Father now, may you go in the grace of Christ. -[5324.22 --> 5332.66] May you go in power of the Spirit now, to bring you glory with your life. -[5333.40 --> 5341.14] May you go in love of your Father now, may you go in the grace of Christ. -[5341.14 --> 5350.58] May you go in power of the Spirit now, to bring you glory with your life. -[5371.14 --> 5371.58] Amen. -[5374.58 --> 5381.18] And so, as you go, go with the blessing of God and go with an invitation. -[5381.70 --> 5387.42] Stick around following for a time of a fellowship of sharing life and story. -[5387.66 --> 5394.20] And go in anticipation of a God who is still at work in the world. -[5395.12 --> 5397.40] Go with God's blessing. -[5397.40 --> 5401.50] God, go before you, to lead you. -[5402.08 --> 5404.02] God, go behind you, to protect you. -[5404.34 --> 5406.44] God, go beneath you, to support you. -[5406.80 --> 5409.28] God, go beside you, to befriend you. -[5409.70 --> 5411.64] Do not be afraid. -[5412.22 --> 5414.28] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5414.44 --> 5416.40] Do not be afraid. -[5417.40 --> 5424.74] But go to a land you know not of, in peace, to love and serve the Lord. -[5424.74 --> 5426.14] Amen. -[5427.40 --> 5455.62] Sing a song of celebration, lift up a shout of praise for the bride who will come. -[5455.62 --> 5457.62] The glory is high. -[5457.62 --> 5461.62] The glory is high. -[5461.62 --> 5469.62] And oh, in the promise day. -[5469.62 --> 5478.62] We'll go to a much better way. -[5478.62 --> 5480.62] Dance with all your light. -[5480.62 --> 5483.62] Dance with all your light. -[5483.62 --> 5485.62] Lift up your hands. -[5485.62 --> 5486.62] Lift up your hands. -[5486.62 --> 5488.62] We'll die for joy. -[5488.62 --> 5490.62] The glory is high. -[5490.62 --> 5491.62] And oh, in the promise day. -[5491.62 --> 5492.62] And oh, in the promise day. -[5492.62 --> 5494.62] And oh, in the promise day. -[5494.62 --> 5504.26] And oh, he's my son -[5504.26 --> 5515.38] A strong, pure star-spot light -[5515.38 --> 5519.88] He will dance in the streets that are cold -[5519.88 --> 5524.24] For his pride and grace that I can -[5524.24 --> 5528.48] Every time he's tired and peace -[5528.48 --> 5534.48] He'll join the Son of the Lamb -[5534.48 --> 5542.74] Sing a vow for the time of rejoicing his peace -[5542.74 --> 5552.00] The wind in the room is still to the peace -[5552.00 --> 5556.24] The wind in the room is still to the peace -[5556.24 --> 5564.24] The wind needs to come is now here -[5564.24 --> 5570.24] And oh, the Father's will be in the glory of God -[5570.24 --> 5574.48] And oh, the Lord's will be in the glory of God -[5574.48 --> 5588.72] And oh, the Lord's will be in the glory of God -[5588.72 --> 5604.90] We will dance on six levels, for it's dry and grace of man. Every tongue and dry and fish will go. -[5604.90 --> 5620.90] We will dance on six levels, for it's dry and grace of man. Every tongue and dry and fish will go. -[5620.90 --> 5626.90] We will dance on six levels, for it's dry and grace of man. -[5634.90 --> 5644.90] . . . -[5644.90 --> 5650.90] . . . -[5650.90 --> 5654.90] . . . -[5654.90 --> 5660.90] . . . -[5660.90 --> 5670.90] . . . -[5670.90 --> 5672.90] . . -[5672.90 --> 5676.90] . . -[5676.90 --> 5680.90] . . -[5680.90 --> 5682.90] . . -[5682.90 --> 5686.90] . . -[5686.90 --> 5698.90] . . -[5698.90 --> 5700.90] . . -[5700.90 --> 5702.90] . . -[5702.90 --> 5704.90] . . -[5704.90 --> 5706.90] . . -[5706.90 --> 5718.90] . . -[5718.90 --> 5720.90] . . -[5720.90 --> 5722.90] . . -[5722.90 --> 5724.90] . . -[5724.90 --> 5726.90] . . -[5726.90 --> 5728.90] . . -[5728.90 --> 5740.90] . . -[5740.90 --> 5742.90] . . -[5742.90 --> 5744.90] . . -[5744.90 --> 5746.90] . . -[5746.90 --> 5748.90] . . -[5748.90 --> 5750.90] . . -[5750.90 --> 5752.90] . . -[5752.90 --> 5758.90] . . diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 7, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 7, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index feb1108427d9e552cd359ac6fbc122e57ba50388..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 7, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,135 +0,0 @@ -• Making diamonds out of dust and changing lives -• Being loved as you are, not as you should be -• Counting the times of forgiveness in love -• Letting go of guilt and shame to live freely -• Embracing God's mercy and living in grace -• Recognizing the sufficiency of His love -• Repentance of sins in personal prayer -• Celebration and remembrance of the Lord's Supper and Christ's sacrifice on the cross -• Gratitude for God's love, mercy, and grace -• Assurance of forgiveness and removal of sins -• Reflection on God's character: compassionate, gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love -• Reference to seeking and saving the lost -• Gratitude for the cross and God's mercy -• Repetition of phrases such as "stronger than darkness", "new every morn", and "his mercy is more" -• Mention of God's kindness and lavishness -• Discussion of sin, debt, and God's forgiveness -• References to the Inspire Conference and the kids' blessing -• Invitation for children to come forward for a blessing or Children's Worship Time -• Children's Worship Time is about to begin -• A prayer of celebration for Judy's 65th birthday -• Prayers for peace in various locations around the world, including: - + China and Taiwan - + Ukraine and Russia - + Global conflicts -• Prayers for protection and guidance for Canadian soldiers training Ukrainian soldiers -• Prayers for individuals experiencing anxiety and fear due to personal struggles or crises -• Prayers for those who have wandered away from faith, asking God to reveal Himself to them again -• Prayer for restoration and healing from sickness -• Prayers for those living with long-term health effects, particularly in assisted living facilities -• Request for an end to staff shortages and provision of help where needed -• Intercession for young adults, including Jared's upcoming semester in Costa Rica -• Celebration and thanksgiving for Judy's 65th birthday and blessing -• Prayer for new life, growth, and development for Theo -• Thankfulness for the opportunity to support the family through meal trains and other forms of community outreach -• Prayer for community, communion, and receiving God's grace during the service -• Request for transformation into Jesus' image through hearing and applying His word -• The story of the prodigal son is read from the Bible -• The younger son squanders his inheritance and becomes impoverished, but returns to his father after realizing his mistakes -• The father welcomes the younger son back with open arms and a feast -• The older son feels angry and resentful towards the younger son's return -• The father explains that they must celebrate the younger son's return because he was lost and is now found. -• Religiosity as a contributing factor to deconstruction of faith -• Josh Harris's experience with purity culture, deconstruction, and loss of faith -• Exvangelical movement and the phenomenon of people leaving their Christian faith -• Jen Hatmaker's deconstruction of her faith and redefinition of what it means to be Christian -• Rhett McLaughlin (of YouTube channel Rhett & Link) mentioned as a possible example of someone who has undergone significant changes in their faith -• Rhett's famous journey of leaving his faith -• Connection between religiosity presumption and people leaving their faith -• Concept that compassion of the Father draws and divides, depending on perspective -• Context of Jesus speaking to Pharisees in Luke 15, a Jewish ruling class with social and political power -• The Pharisees, a group of status and prestige in the Jewish religion, are upset with Jesus for eating with tax collectors and sinners. -• Jesus is seen as being on the side of the lowly and outcasts, rather than the elite. -• The Pharisees' grumbling is compared to a whisper that cuts, meant to hurt but not overtly aggressive. -• Complainers will always complain, and their complaints should be given minimal weight. -• This is not just about complaining, but about the Pharisees' hypocrisy and lack of understanding of Jesus' message. -• Jesus challenges the status quo and authority of those in power -• They respond with anger, muttering, and backroom deals -• The story is a foreshadowing of the cross and Jesus' mission to expose privilege and power -• Jesus tells three stories in Luke 15, focusing on the third, known as the Prodigal Son -• The speaker discusses the parable of the Prodigal Son and its spiritual implications -• The younger son's request to his father for inheritance is a reflection of his inner emptiness and desire for external fulfillment -• The father's response highlights the son's spiritual death, which can only be reversed through repentance and return -• The speaker emphasizes that true happiness and satisfaction come from within, rather than from material possessions or wealth -• The parable serves as a starting point for ongoing conversations about spirituality and personal growth -• The narrator discusses a character who rebels against his father and seeks to leave him, but eventually returns after running out of money and being rejected. -• The father welcomes the son back with open arms, despite the son's past behavior, and treats him as one of their own, even hosting a feast in his honor. -• The narrator mentions that this story is about the "prodigal son", who is lost or wandering, and can be used to describe someone who has strayed from their family or community. -• The word "prodigal" doesn't necessarily mean lost or wandering, but rather spending money or resources freely and recklessly. -• In the context of the parable, the prodigal son is actually spending his father's wealth lavishly on drink, prostitutes, and parties. -• However, in a broader sense, it is the father who is being prodigal by giving lavishly to those who are undeserving or deserving punishment. -• The real prodigal in the story is God, who welcomes us home as if raised from the dead despite our unworthiness. -• Parable of two brothers and their relationship with their father -• The older son is resentful and feels he has been slaving for his father without reward or appreciation -• The younger son returns to his father after being away, and the father welcomes him back with mercy and restoration -• The father also goes out to the older son and tries to persuade him to join the celebration, but the older son is too angry and resentful to forgive his father and participate in the party -• The speaker discusses the parable of the prodigal son, highlighting the difference between obedience born out of joy and gratitude, versus a forced or rote obedience. -• The older brother's obedience is portrayed as lacking life, vitality, and gratitude, making it more like death. -• The speaker warns that most Christians are in danger of becoming like the older brother, with their relationship to God being about mere obedience rather than a living connection. -• Obedience is distinguished from a consequence of faith, where it is a result of God's presence and life within an individual. -• Presumption of religiosity based on obedience for rewards -• Relationship with God viewed as transactional and conditional -• Older brother mentality prioritizing morality and outward behavior -• Danger zone of feeling obligated to change before God will listen -• Importance of recognizing that grace is more important than outward obedience -• Danger zone of the older brother: described as a place where people think they can manipulate God for their own needs. -• Sunday church attendance out of obligation, not love or relationship with God. -• Lack of genuine experience of God's grace leading to suspicion of others' motives and difficulty receiving or offering grace. -• Being stuck in spiritual deathliness due to lack of living word and active faith. -• Warning against being content with superficial or external expressions of faith rather than a deep, living relationship with God. -• The problem of religiosity becoming transactional and manipulative -• Modeling a faith that is vital and meaningful -• Not living in accordance with one's professed beliefs -• Deconstruction and the struggle to maintain identity -• The parable of the prodigal son and its application to modern Christianity -• The older brother's refusal to take joy in others' salvation -• The story of the prodigal son and the father's love -• The danger zone for the older brother: forgetting his relationship with God -• The character of a "prodigal God" who loves lavishly and unconditionally -• The Pharisees missing the point of Jesus' teachings -• The importance of questioning and wrestling with faith to deepen understanding -• A woman loses a coin and searches her entire house until she finds it -• The story of a shepherd searching for a lost sheep is contrasted with the story of Jesus' parable, where no one goes out to search -• In the culture of Jesus' time, there was an expectation that the older brother would go out to find his younger brother and bring him back to their father -• Jesus is teaching that he himself is the true and better older brother who reconciles people to God -• The true and better older brother (Jesus) clothes us in his righteousness -• Jesus gives up his life so that we may live -• The Father covers us with his obedience and restores us as a lavishly loved son or daughter -• The Christian life is marked by joy, trust, and faith, not guilt or shame -• We are transformed into the image of Jesus Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit -• The speaker emphasizes the importance of joyful gratitude and living a real life through faith -• A prayer is led, asking God to be real to them as they celebrate the feast together -• The table is described as a celebration of the Son's return to the Father and the kingdom of heaven for all who believe -• A liturgy is led, with participants speaking the words on the screen overhead -• A eucharistic prayer is recited, thanking God for Jesus Christ and his sacrifice -• The speaker explains that the bread and cup are symbols of Jesus' body and blood, reminding participants to proclaim the Lord's death until he comes again -• All who love Jesus are invited to come to the table, regardless of their level of faith or past experiences with the sacrament -• Participants are ushered up to the front in a line, where they receive bread and juice while saying "the body of Christ given for you" and "the blood of Christ shed for you" -• Prayer and thanksgiving -• Sharing in the bread of life and drinking of sacrifice as a sign of bonds of faith, love, and peace -• The body and blood of Christ shed for sin and forgiveness -• Call to follow in the steps of Christ and share in his suffering -• Proclamation of Christ's return and joining in the feast of death -• Psalm 12, "Amazing Love" hymn -• Discussion of death and sacrifice -• References to Christ's body and blood -• Mention of sin, forgiveness, and pardon -• Description of a radiant bride waiting for her groom -• Worship service with prayer and blessing -• Song lyrics referencing love and devotion to Jesus -• Invitation to stand and pray together -• Faith and conviction in Jesus Christ -• Spiritual healing and redemption from pain and shame -• Declaration of Jesus' power over death and the grave -• Gratitude and praise to God for salvation and deliverance -• Expressions of devotion and commitment to following God \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 7, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 7, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f36e2b3e4ae8d931c2584700b56a7d4566999c5b..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 7, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2611 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 4.00] Making diamonds out of dust -[4.00 --> 8.00] I won't be afraid to shine -[8.00 --> 12.00] I won't be afraid to shine -[12.00 --> 16.00] I won't be afraid -[16.00 --> 20.00] Cause he's making diamonds out of dust -[20.00 --> 24.00] Making diamonds out of dust -[24.00 --> 49.54] I want you as you are not as you ought to be -[49.54 --> 54.46] Won't you lay down your guard and come to me -[54.46 --> 60.14] The shame that grips you now is crippling -[60.14 --> 65.54] It breaks my heart to see you suffering -[65.54 --> 68.98] Cause I am for you -[68.98 --> 72.88] I'm not against you -[72.88 --> 78.26] If you wanna know how far my love can go -[78.26 --> 81.88] Just how deep, just how wide -[81.88 --> 85.74] If you wanna see how much you mean to me -[85.74 --> 89.52] Look at my hands, look at my side -[89.52 --> 94.74] If you could count the times that day you are forgiven -[94.74 --> 98.36] It's more than the drops in the ocean -[98.36 --> 109.86] Don't think you need to settle for a substitute -[109.86 --> 115.36] When I'm the only love that changes you -[115.36 --> 118.12] And I am for you -[118.12 --> 122.12] I'm not against you -[122.12 --> 125.82] I am for you -[125.82 --> 129.66] I'm not against you -[129.66 --> 134.96] If you wanna know how far my love can go -[134.96 --> 138.52] Just how deep, just how wide -[138.52 --> 142.14] If you wanna see how much you mean to me -[142.14 --> 145.76] Look at my hands, look at my side -[145.76 --> 151.62] If you could count the times that day you are forgiven -[151.62 --> 154.74] It's more than the drops in the ocean -[154.74 --> 166.76] Open your heart, it's time that we start again -[166.76 --> 174.22] Open your heart, it's time that we start again -[176.36 --> 180.32] If you wanna know how far my love can go -[180.32 --> 183.54] Just how deep, just how wide -[183.54 --> 187.78] If you wanna see how much you mean to me -[187.78 --> 191.08] Look at my hands, look at my side -[191.08 --> 196.76] If you could count the times of day you are forgiven -[196.76 --> 200.24] It's more than the drops in the ocean -[200.24 --> 207.64] The drops in the ocean -[207.64 --> 216.38] I am for you -[216.38 --> 220.58] I'm not against you -[220.58 --> 224.06] I am for you -[224.06 --> 228.30] I'm not against you -[228.30 --> 249.96] You're not the only one who feels like this -[249.96 --> 254.20] Feeling like you lose more than you win -[254.20 --> 258.44] Like life is just an endless hill you climb -[258.44 --> 262.68] You try and try, but never arise -[262.68 --> 265.22] I'm telling you something -[265.22 --> 267.22] This racing, this running -[267.22 --> 269.98] Oh, you're working way too hard -[269.98 --> 270.96] You're working way too hard -[270.96 --> 273.20] And this perfection you're chasing -[273.20 --> 275.32] Is just energy wasted -[275.32 --> 277.96] Cause he loves you like you are -[277.96 --> 281.46] So go ahead and live like you're loved -[281.46 --> 286.04] It's okay to act like you've been set free -[286.04 --> 289.48] His love has made you more than enough -[289.48 --> 294.24] So go ahead and be who he made you to be -[294.24 --> 310.22] And live like you're loved -[310.22 --> 314.20] And live like you know you're valuable -[314.20 --> 318.20] Like you know the one that holds your soul -[318.20 --> 322.14] Cause mercy has called you by your name -[322.14 --> 326.28] Don't be afraid to live in that grace -[326.28 --> 329.22] Oh, I'm telling you something -[329.22 --> 331.42] This God we believe in -[331.42 --> 333.92] Yeah, he changed everything -[333.92 --> 337.06] No more guilt, no more shame -[337.06 --> 339.02] He took all that away -[339.02 --> 342.22] Gave us a reason to sing -[342.22 --> 345.42] So go ahead and live like you're loved -[345.42 --> 350.04] It's okay to act like you've been set free -[350.04 --> 353.48] His love has made you more than enough -[353.48 --> 358.24] So go ahead and be who he made you to be -[358.24 --> 361.12] And live like you're loved -[361.12 --> 366.42] Live like you're loved -[366.42 --> 370.40] Live like you're loved -[370.40 --> 373.04] Live like you're loved -[373.04 --> 378.18] Walk like you're free -[378.18 --> 382.24] Stay like you know who we made you to be -[382.24 --> 384.36] Live like you're loved -[384.36 --> 386.26] Like you believe -[386.26 --> 390.30] His love is all that you'll ever need -[390.30 --> 393.46] So go ahead and live like you're loved -[393.46 --> 401.46] His love has made you more than enough -[401.46 --> 408.74] So go ahead and live like you're loved -[408.74 --> 409.44] Live like you're loved -[409.44 --> 414.08] It's okay to act like you've been set free -[414.08 --> 417.76] His love has made you more than enough -[417.76 --> 421.76] So go ahead and be who we made you to be -[421.76 --> 424.04] And live like you're loved -[424.04 --> 425.10] Live like you're loved -[425.10 --> 427.06] Live like you're loved -[427.06 --> 428.18] Live like you're loved -[428.18 --> 458.16] Live like you're loved. -[458.18 --> 488.16] Live like you're loved. -[488.18 --> 518.16] Live like you're loved. -[518.16 --> 548.14] Live like you're loved. -[548.14 --> 578.12] Live like you're loved. -[578.12 --> 608.10] Live like you're loved. -[608.12 --> 638.10] Live like you're loved. -[638.12 --> 668.10] Live like you're loved. -[668.12 --> 698.10] Live like you're loved. -[698.12 --> 728.10] Live like you're loved. -[728.12 --> 758.10] Live like you're loved. -[758.12 --> 788.10] Live like you're loved. -[788.12 --> 818.10] Live like you're loved. -[818.12 --> 848.10] Live like you're loved. -[848.12 --> 878.10] Live like you're loved. -[878.12 --> 908.10] Live like you're loved. -[908.12 --> 938.10] Live like you're loved. -[938.12 --> 968.10] Live like you're loved. -[968.12 --> 998.10] Live like you're loved. -[998.12 --> 1000.12] Live like you're loved. -[1028.12 --> 1030.12] Live like you're loved. -[1058.12 --> 1060.12] Live like you're loved. -[1060.12 --> 1064.12] Live like you're loved. -[1064.12 --> 1066.12] Live like you're loved. -[1066.12 --> 1070.12] Live like you're loved. -[1070.12 --> 1076.38] Altogether wonderful to me. -[1100.12 --> 1130.10] Altogether wonderful to me. -[1130.12 --> 1133.28] His righteousness. -[1135.08 --> 1137.12] He humbled himself. -[1138.14 --> 1143.04] And carried the cross. -[1143.62 --> 1146.58] Love so amazing. -[1149.46 --> 1153.36] Love so amazing. -[1153.36 --> 1159.36] Jesus Messiah. -[1160.12 --> 1168.54] Name above all names. -[1170.12 --> 1173.28] Blessed Redeemer. -[1173.28 --> 1178.28] Emmanuel. -[1182.28 --> 1186.44] The rescues for sinners. -[1186.44 --> 1192.86] The ransom from heaven. -[1195.44 --> 1199.32] Jesus Messiah. -[1199.32 --> 1205.44] Lord of all. -[1205.44 --> 1212.44] His body the bread. -[1212.44 --> 1216.52] His blood the wine. -[1216.52 --> 1220.10] Broken and poured out. -[1220.10 --> 1222.44] All for love. -[1222.44 --> 1225.44] The whole earth trembled. -[1225.44 --> 1229.44] The veil was torn. -[1229.44 --> 1234.86] Love so amazing. -[1234.86 --> 1240.98] Love so amazing. -[1240.98 --> 1245.98] Jesus Messiah. -[1245.98 --> 1247.40] Jesus Messiah. -[1247.40 --> 1253.98] Name above all names. -[1253.98 --> 1254.98] Jesus Messiah. -[1254.98 --> 1255.98] Amen. -[1255.98 --> 1259.98] Blessed Redeemer. -[1259.98 --> 1260.98] Emmanuel. -[1260.98 --> 1262.98] Emmanuel. -[1262.98 --> 1268.98] The rescue for sinners. -[1268.98 --> 1279.66] The rescue for sinners, the ransom for heaven. -[1282.70 --> 1292.98] Jesus, Messiah, Lord of all. -[1292.98 --> 1301.40] All our hope is in you. -[1301.40 --> 1308.60] All our hope is in you. -[1309.00 --> 1315.70] All the glory to you, God. -[1315.70 --> 1322.70] The light of the world. -[1324.04 --> 1327.88] Jesus, Messiah. -[1331.04 --> 1335.70] Name above all, bless. -[1337.70 --> 1341.36] Blessed, Redeemer. -[1341.36 --> 1345.94] Emmanuel. -[1350.28 --> 1354.36] The rescue for sinners. -[1356.52 --> 1360.24] The ransom from heaven. -[1363.24 --> 1366.54] Jesus, Messiah. -[1366.54 --> 1373.54] Lord of all. -[1375.54 --> 1379.40] Jesus, Messiah. -[1382.40 --> 1385.54] Lord of all. -[1385.54 --> 1386.54] Amen. -[1386.54 --> 1387.54] Amen. -[1387.54 --> 1388.54] Amen. -[1388.54 --> 1389.54] Amen. -[1389.54 --> 1392.92] We're going to enter into a time of confession and assurance together. -[1393.20 --> 1401.26] And to start it off, let's take a few moments in personal, silent prayer to our God for the repentance of our sins. -[1401.36 --> 1401.72] Let's pray. -[1401.72 --> 1402.72] Amen. -[1402.72 --> 1403.72] Amen. -[1403.72 --> 1404.72] Amen. -[1404.72 --> 1405.72] Amen. -[1405.72 --> 1406.72] Amen. -[1406.72 --> 1407.72] Amen. -[1407.72 --> 1408.72] Amen. -[1408.72 --> 1409.72] Amen. -[1409.72 --> 1410.72] Amen. -[1410.72 --> 1411.72] Amen. -[1411.72 --> 1412.72] Amen. -[1412.72 --> 1413.72] Amen. -[1413.72 --> 1413.78] Amen. -[1413.78 --> 1414.78] Amen. -[1414.78 --> 1415.52] Amen. -[1415.52 --> 1416.52] Amen. -[1445.52 --> 1463.10] Lord, we take hope, knowing that you are compassionate and gracious, slow to anger,金 -[1463.10 --> 1478.12] compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in love, that you will not always accuse, nor will you harbor your anger. -[1479.26 --> 1484.52] You do not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. -[1485.74 --> 1492.54] For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is your love for those who fear you. -[1493.34 --> 1500.10] As far as the east is from the west, so far you have removed our sins from us. -[1501.44 --> 1516.98] Lord, as we celebrate and remember around the Lord's Supper table today, the sacrifice you made for us on the cross, may we be forever humbled by your love, your mercy and your grace. -[1518.62 --> 1522.50] May we forever be grateful. In your name we pray, Jesus. -[1523.10 --> 1523.66] Amen. -[1523.66 --> 1524.12] Amen. -[1524.12 --> 1554.10] Thank you. -[1554.12 --> 1566.18] You did not wait for me to draw near to you, but you clothed yourself in frail humanity. -[1568.32 --> 1583.68] You did not wait for me to cry out to you, but you let me hear your voice calling me, and I'm forever grateful. -[1584.12 --> 1593.70] To you, I'm forever grateful for the cross. -[1594.14 --> 1600.12] I'm forever grateful to you. -[1600.12 --> 1610.12] But you came to seek and save the lost. -[1610.12 --> 1635.24] You did not wait for me to draw near to you, but you clothed yourself in frail humanity. -[1635.24 --> 1649.38] You did not wait for me to cry out to you, but you let me hear your voice calling me. -[1649.38 --> 1655.38] I'm forever grateful to you. -[1655.38 --> 1662.58] I'm forever grateful for the cross. -[1663.02 --> 1668.38] I'm forever grateful to you. -[1668.38 --> 1672.38] I'm forever grateful to you. -[1672.38 --> 1678.82] To seek and save the lost. -[1678.82 --> 1684.38] I'm forever grateful to you. -[1684.38 --> 1685.38] I'm forever grateful to you. -[1685.38 --> 1691.38] I'm forever grateful for the cross. -[1691.38 --> 1697.38] I'm forever grateful to you. -[1697.38 --> 1699.38] I'm forever grateful to you. -[1699.38 --> 1707.38] I'm forever grateful to you. -[1707.38 --> 1711.38] I'm forever grateful to you. -[1711.38 --> 1719.52] To seek and save the lost -[1741.38 --> 1771.36] To seek and save the lost -[1771.38 --> 1801.36] To seek and save the lost -[1801.38 --> 1805.38] To seek and save the lost -[1805.38 --> 1819.38] To seek and save the lost -[1819.38 --> 1825.38] To seek and save the lost -[1825.38 --> 1827.38] Stronger than darkness -[1827.38 --> 1829.38] New every morn -[1830.10 --> 1832.38] Our sins they are many -[1832.38 --> 1835.38] His mercy is more -[1835.38 --> 1841.38] The love will remember -[1841.38 --> 1844.38] No wrongs we have done -[1844.38 --> 1847.38] From nations all knowingly -[1847.38 --> 1849.38] Counts not their sum -[1849.38 --> 1852.38] Thrown into a sea without -[1852.38 --> 1855.38] But evermore sure -[1855.38 --> 1857.38] Our sins they are many -[1857.38 --> 1861.38] His mercy is more -[1861.38 --> 1863.38] The love will remember -[1863.38 --> 1865.38] The love will remember -[1865.38 --> 1867.38] The love will remember -[1867.38 --> 1869.38] His mercy is more -[1869.38 --> 1874.38] Stronger than darkness -[1874.38 --> 1877.38] New every morn -[1877.38 --> 1879.38] Our sins they are many -[1879.38 --> 1881.38] His mercy is more -[1881.38 --> 1885.38] Praise the Lord -[1885.38 --> 1887.38] His mercy is more -[1887.38 --> 1889.38] Praise the Lord -[1889.38 --> 1891.38] His mercy is more -[1891.38 --> 1893.38] Stronger than darkness -[1893.38 --> 1895.38] New every morn -[1895.38 --> 1896.38] Our sins they are many -[1896.38 --> 1897.38] Our sins they are many -[1897.38 --> 1899.38] His mercy is more -[1899.38 --> 1901.38] His mercy is more -[1901.38 --> 1903.38] Our sins they are many -[1903.38 --> 1905.38] His mercy is more -[1905.38 --> 1908.38] His mercy is more -[1908.38 --> 1909.38] Praise the Lord -[1909.38 --> 1911.38] His mercy is more -[1911.38 --> 1913.38] Praise the Lord -[1913.38 --> 1916.38] His mercy is more -[1916.38 --> 1920.38] Stronger than darkness -[1920.38 --> 1923.38] New every morn -[1923.38 --> 1926.38] Our sins they are many -[1926.38 --> 1930.38] His mercy is more -[1930.38 --> 1937.54] What riches of kindness he lavished on us -[1937.54 --> 1942.50] His blood was the payment, his life was the cost -[1942.50 --> 1947.74] We still need that debt we could never afford -[1947.74 --> 1954.02] Our sins, they are many, his mercy is poor -[1954.02 --> 1957.34] Praise the Lord -[1957.34 --> 1963.48] His mercy is poor -[1963.48 --> 1970.40] Stronger than darkness will ever mourn -[1970.40 --> 1975.06] Our sins, they are many, his mercy is poor -[1975.06 --> 1978.08] Praise the Lord -[1978.08 --> 1983.44] His mercy is poor -[1983.44 --> 1989.58] Stronger than darkness will ever mourn -[1989.58 --> 1995.22] Our sins, they are many, his mercy is poor -[1995.22 --> 1999.58] Stronger than darkness will ever mourn -[1999.58 --> 2005.50] Our sins, they are many, his mercy is poor -[2005.50 --> 2015.30] Tous eterna -[2016.10 --> 2028.44] Inclusive -[2028.44 --> 2032.64] kyla -[2032.64 --> 2062.62] Thank you. -[2062.64 --> 2092.62] Thank you. -[2092.64 --> 2122.62] Thank you. -[2122.64 --> 2124.64] Thank you. -[2152.64 --> 2154.64] Thank you. -[2182.64 --> 2184.64] Thank you. -[2212.64 --> 2214.64] Thank you. -[2242.64 --> 2244.64] Thank you. -[2244.64 --> 2246.64] Thank you. -[2246.64 --> 2248.64] Thank you. -[2248.64 --> 2250.64] Thank you. -[2251.04 --> 2252.74] Megan and Samara and I are around. -[2252.74 --> 2256.70] or you can grab any four of us at any point and you can chat with us that way too. -[2257.24 --> 2259.72] So that's the Inspire Conference that we went through this week. -[2259.78 --> 2260.36] It was a good time. -[2261.04 --> 2263.78] I am going to invite the kids forward now. -[2264.40 --> 2268.68] And if you are really age three to however old you want to be, -[2268.78 --> 2272.24] you can come up front here and we'll do the kids' blessing together. -[2272.38 --> 2274.96] And then if you're age three to heading into kindergarten, -[2274.96 --> 2277.28] you're going to head to Children's Worship Time. -[2277.46 --> 2278.86] So why don't you come up front, come up here. -[2280.02 --> 2281.22] If you want, if not, I'll just pray. -[2281.22 --> 2283.04] But everybody can come forward if they want to. -[2283.72 --> 2285.74] And we will do the kids' blessing. -[2291.70 --> 2292.72] Well, hello, Ruby. -[2298.10 --> 2299.84] And everybody else. -[2300.22 --> 2301.26] Good morning, kids. -[2301.72 --> 2302.74] How's everybody doing today? -[2303.64 --> 2304.36] We're good. -[2304.48 --> 2305.96] Are we ready for some Children's Worship Time? -[2306.58 --> 2308.82] Are we ready to hear Pastor Chris if we're staying in the church? -[2309.82 --> 2310.02] Yeah. -[2310.46 --> 2310.82] Woo! -[2312.02 --> 2312.50] All right. -[2312.68 --> 2313.26] Let's pray. -[2313.64 --> 2314.50] And then we'll head off to Children's Worship. -[2314.50 --> 2315.84] We'll do the Children's Blessing. -[2315.92 --> 2317.64] And then we'll head off to Children's Worship Time, okay? -[2317.94 --> 2318.60] Will you pray with me? -[2319.44 --> 2320.94] Dear God, thank you so much for this day. -[2321.02 --> 2323.70] Thank you that we can be here in your church today. -[2323.86 --> 2326.00] And that we can learn more about you. -[2326.08 --> 2328.80] And whether we go to Children's Worship Time or we stay back in the church here, -[2328.80 --> 2332.68] we just pray that you'll open up our ears to hear your word to us today. -[2332.82 --> 2333.78] We pray this in your name. -[2334.18 --> 2334.58] Amen. -[2335.62 --> 2335.88] All right. -[2335.94 --> 2336.60] Let's just stand up. -[2337.00 --> 2338.56] And everybody else, please stand up. -[2338.84 --> 2341.50] All right. -[2341.84 --> 2342.58] All right. -[2351.16 --> 2351.80] All right. -[2353.84 --> 2354.06] All right. -[2354.42 --> 2355.24] All right. -[2355.24 --> 2355.32] All right. -[2355.98 --> 2356.42] All right. -[2356.42 --> 2386.40] Thank you. -[2386.42 --> 2416.40] Thank you. -[2416.44 --> 2426.16] We're also going to pray a prayer of celebration for Judy, who's celebrating her 65th birthday on Tuesday. -[2426.80 --> 2429.32] And Judy is here this morning. Amen. Amen. -[2429.32 --> 2437.80] And so you can find Judy after the service and congratulate her. -[2437.80 --> 2442.36] Don't overwhelm her, but whelm her appropriately. -[2442.36 --> 2447.60] And we'll pray for a couple other things along the way. -[2447.68 --> 2449.92] Will you join me in prayer together? -[2449.92 --> 2461.56] Holy God and Heavenly Father, -[2461.56 --> 2468.50] We gather in your presence this morning as a church family to sing your praises. -[2469.18 --> 2476.06] To proclaim the truth of who you are and what you have done and are doing and will do in the world. -[2476.06 --> 2482.82] We thank you, Lord God, for your promise and your covenant to us. -[2482.96 --> 2489.20] And we thank you for the ways that we have seen your faithfulness in our own lives and stories. -[2489.20 --> 2499.46] God, as we worship you this morning, we pray that you would open the eyes of our hearts to see you more clearly today. -[2499.46 --> 2513.66] To love you more dearly and deeply in the depths of our being and that we can together go from this place in faith and trust into the various places that you call us. -[2513.74 --> 2521.06] Into the struggles and the challenges of life lived in you and on mission with you to the world. -[2521.06 --> 2528.34] And so God, soften our hearts for the hurting and the broken. -[2530.98 --> 2534.22] Strengthen our hands for the work that you call us to. -[2535.58 --> 2541.52] And send us out with a deep conviction, the truth, the gospel of Jesus Christ. -[2542.80 --> 2549.74] God, as we look around the world, we know that there are so many places that are crying out for your peace and your presence. -[2551.06 --> 2561.98] Globally, God, there are really important and big conversations or lack of conversations that are affecting the geopolitical situation around the world. -[2562.94 --> 2572.58] We think in particular after this past week with the United States officials visiting Taiwan and then China issuing threats in response to that. -[2572.58 --> 2583.60] We pray, Lord God, that even as China gives a show of force and mobilizes, that you would let cooler heads prevail and that there would be peace. -[2585.00 --> 2590.20] God, we pray too for the ongoing situation and war in Ukraine. -[2591.04 --> 2593.60] We pray too that there would be peace there. -[2593.60 --> 2596.78] Let justice prevail. -[2597.12 --> 2607.02] And we pray that the leadership in Russia, in particular, President Putin, that you would soften hearts and bring peace. -[2608.16 --> 2617.88] God, to that end as well, we pray for the commitment that Canada has made to send troops to England in order to train Ukrainian soldiers. -[2617.88 --> 2618.14] We pray for the people that they would pray for their soldiers. -[2618.14 --> 2618.28] We pray for the people that they would come to their soldiers. -[2618.28 --> 2623.32] We pray for the men and women who will go on behalf of our country. -[2623.72 --> 2634.14] We pray that you would keep them safe and that you would, Lord God, use them to usher in peace between Ukraine and Canada. -[2635.78 --> 2646.34] Lord God, we know that even as we come closer to home, there are things that are happening that are giving us anxiety -[2646.34 --> 2648.80] and causing us fear. -[2650.16 --> 2655.62] And so we pray, Lord God, for those situations that make us cry out in wonder. -[2656.46 --> 2662.08] We pray, God, for those who are asking hard questions of life and faith, -[2662.22 --> 2664.92] for those who are struggling in the midst of doubt, -[2665.04 --> 2670.08] who are maybe deconstructing or differentiating their experience of faith. -[2671.24 --> 2674.74] We pray, Lord God, for our sons and daughters, our brothers and sisters, -[2674.74 --> 2678.82] our friends and neighbors who have wandered away from faith. -[2680.06 --> 2684.98] We pray, Lord God, that you would reveal yourself to them in a compelling and powerful way -[2684.98 --> 2688.18] that would draw their heart's affection back to you. -[2689.12 --> 2693.80] We rest on the covenant promises made to these individuals and children, -[2693.96 --> 2696.90] maybe in baptism, maybe spoken over them in word. -[2697.28 --> 2702.48] And we pray, Lord God, that you would make that real again for them. -[2702.48 --> 2710.02] We pray that you would bring the right people into their lives to speak the truth of the gospel, -[2710.14 --> 2717.80] the truth of Jesus, that you would reveal yourself in power and that their hard hearts would be softened. -[2717.80 --> 2725.94] Lord our God, we pray for those who are experiencing illness or sickness, -[2726.16 --> 2730.84] who are experiencing some sort of physical ailment of any kind. -[2730.96 --> 2736.96] We pray that you would bring healing and wholeness, that you would bring restoration to them. -[2736.96 --> 2748.22] Whatever it is that is causing sickness, Lord God, we pray that you would bring an end to that trial and to that struggle. -[2749.38 --> 2752.92] And God, for those who are dealing with the long-term effects of sickness, -[2753.12 --> 2758.16] whether it's long-term effects of COVID or some other health concerns, -[2758.16 --> 2762.10] we pray, Lord God, that you would also bring an end to that struggle, -[2762.58 --> 2768.08] bring healing and bring a sense of rest and a return of strength and energy. -[2768.64 --> 2775.90] We pray that you would bring an answer to the crying out of our hearts to that end. -[2775.90 --> 2786.02] God, we know that not only are there those who are dealing with long-term health effects, -[2786.22 --> 2791.28] there are those who are doing so in particular living situations. -[2791.28 --> 2799.08] We want to pray for those who are living in assisted living and for the staff that help them. -[2799.94 --> 2805.62] We hear stories from so many about staff shortages in these places. -[2805.90 --> 2813.64] And we pray that you would help bring an end to that, provide people to work appropriately in so many different places, -[2813.64 --> 2817.00] not just in healthcare industries which are experiencing shortages, -[2817.30 --> 2822.42] but across our economic world we hear of these shortages. -[2822.64 --> 2827.32] And we pray, Lord God, help us and bring the right people. -[2827.70 --> 2832.10] For those who are working, God, we pray that they would be messengers of peace, -[2832.10 --> 2838.54] that they would give hope to those whom they serve in those places, homes. -[2840.10 --> 2847.04] Father God, we give you thanks for the testimony from Pastor Kevin and the group that went to Inspire. -[2847.04 --> 2851.00] We pray that you would continue to reveal yourself to them, -[2851.10 --> 2856.70] continue to challenge our thinking and our normal way of operating in the world -[2856.70 --> 2860.08] so that we might more faithfully be present with you, -[2860.14 --> 2865.04] that we might more faithfully submit to you and follow after you in service. -[2865.54 --> 2870.62] Continue to inspire that group and through them to inspire us, -[2871.22 --> 2878.04] especially as we prepare a discussion and an evening together to discuss young adult ministries. -[2878.90 --> 2881.68] Thank you for the testimonies of our young adults -[2881.68 --> 2885.08] and for the way that you are working in and through them. -[2885.32 --> 2889.56] We thank you for the blessing that we have from them. -[2890.34 --> 2895.54] And we pray, Lord God, that we would continue to hear and experience that in our midst. -[2897.24 --> 2900.44] One of those young adults we want to pray for is Jared, Lord God, -[2900.50 --> 2903.42] as he prepares to head to Costa Rica again. -[2904.06 --> 2908.94] We thank you for the opportunity that he has to do another semester with Cape and Ray there. -[2908.94 --> 2913.16] We pray that you would use him powerfully and mightily -[2913.16 --> 2919.12] and that you would use this time to draw his heart ever closer to you. -[2919.54 --> 2923.34] And that as he discerns what it means to live as a disciple of Jesus -[2923.34 --> 2926.30] who daily takes up his cross to follow after you, -[2926.68 --> 2928.14] wherever that may take him, -[2928.52 --> 2932.78] we pray that you would encourage his heart and give him what he needs. -[2932.78 --> 2939.60] God, we celebrate as well with Judy 65 years of her life. -[2939.76 --> 2945.38] We thank you for who she is and the joy that she brings to whoever she talks to -[2945.38 --> 2950.38] and the opportunities that we have had to spend time with her and to get to know her. -[2950.54 --> 2953.14] We thank you that she is here with us this morning. -[2953.48 --> 2956.62] We pray that you would bless her with many, many more years -[2956.62 --> 2961.02] that she might continue to be a blessing to so many of us. -[2961.02 --> 2968.14] God, even as we celebrate 65 years, we are mindful again of new life -[2968.14 --> 2974.16] and we give you thanks with the Klingeltanks for Theo and for his young life. -[2974.32 --> 2982.26] We thank you for the growth and the development that he has had in his two weeks. -[2982.50 --> 2985.18] And we pray now that you would bless him -[2985.18 --> 2991.04] and that you would be with the family as they envelop him into their life. -[2991.38 --> 2996.76] We thank you for the chance that we as a church have to support them through meal train and things like that. -[2996.82 --> 2998.86] And for those who have signed up, we give you praise -[2998.86 --> 3003.14] and are grateful that we can meet these needs in that way. -[3003.14 --> 3009.34] Lord our God, as we practice community together, -[3009.34 --> 3012.40] as we come to your table in this service, -[3012.40 --> 3015.86] we pray that there we would receive your grace. -[3016.68 --> 3021.10] And that there, Lord God, we would have the grace that is offered to us -[3021.10 --> 3025.90] in the preaching of your word affirmed and confirmed in the depths of our hearts. -[3025.90 --> 3031.98] And so already now, begin working in us as your word is heard and proclaimed. -[3032.24 --> 3036.88] Begin working in us a love for Jesus brought about by the gospel -[3036.88 --> 3039.76] that we might hear your word this morning, -[3040.30 --> 3044.76] that it might go deep into the depths of our heart and mind -[3044.76 --> 3049.22] and that we might be transformed into the image of Jesus Christ. -[3049.92 --> 3053.64] We pray this, Lord God, in your most holy name. -[3054.70 --> 3055.00] Amen. -[3055.90 --> 3069.46] Indeed, we are going to jump into God's word for some time together. -[3070.18 --> 3072.50] If you're visiting with us this summer, -[3072.66 --> 3076.80] we're doing a series in the parables of Jesus, -[3077.92 --> 3081.46] looking at different parables and stories that Jesus told -[3081.46 --> 3085.58] and then reflecting on what they mean for our life lived today. -[3085.58 --> 3087.44] Some 2,000 years later. -[3088.08 --> 3091.72] This morning, we're going to read the parable of the lost son -[3091.72 --> 3093.24] or the parable of the prodigal son, -[3093.34 --> 3097.54] depending on what translation of the Bible you are reading from. -[3098.10 --> 3102.38] And that is found in Luke 15, starting at verse 11, -[3103.28 --> 3105.30] and then we'll read through the end of the chapter. -[3106.18 --> 3108.98] If you have a Bible with you, I encourage you to open that up. -[3108.98 --> 3110.22] I'll have it there. -[3110.30 --> 3113.52] Otherwise, it will be on the screen over my shoulder. -[3115.04 --> 3116.78] Hear then the word of God. -[3120.36 --> 3121.58] Jesus continued. -[3121.58 --> 3126.38] There was a man who had two sons. -[3126.38 --> 3129.18] The younger one said to his father, -[3129.72 --> 3132.44] Father, give me my share of the estate. -[3133.54 --> 3135.88] So he divided his property between them. -[3137.58 --> 3138.82] And not long after that, -[3138.92 --> 3141.02] the younger son got together all he had -[3141.02 --> 3142.80] and set off for a distant country -[3142.80 --> 3145.88] and there squandered his wealth and wild living. -[3146.88 --> 3148.32] After he had spent everything, -[3148.58 --> 3150.90] there was a severe famine in that whole country, -[3150.90 --> 3152.66] and he began to be in need. -[3153.60 --> 3156.62] So he went and hired himself out -[3156.62 --> 3158.12] to a citizen of that country -[3158.12 --> 3161.22] who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. -[3162.50 --> 3165.48] He longed to fill his stomach with the pods -[3165.48 --> 3166.52] that the pigs were eating, -[3167.42 --> 3169.20] but no one gave him anything. -[3170.72 --> 3172.82] When he came to his senses, he said, -[3173.56 --> 3176.94] how many of my father's hired servants have food to spare -[3176.94 --> 3179.60] and here I am starving to death? -[3180.90 --> 3184.58] I will set out and go back to my father -[3184.58 --> 3185.46] and say to him, -[3185.94 --> 3188.42] Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. -[3188.74 --> 3191.02] I am no longer worthy to be called your son. -[3191.40 --> 3193.42] Make me like one of your hired servants. -[3194.18 --> 3196.54] So he got up and went to his father. -[3198.04 --> 3200.42] But while he was still a long way off, -[3200.50 --> 3202.14] his father saw him -[3202.14 --> 3204.40] and was filled with compassion for him. -[3204.68 --> 3205.76] He ran to his son, -[3205.92 --> 3208.30] threw his arms around him and kissed him. -[3209.40 --> 3210.46] The son said, -[3210.46 --> 3212.88] Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. -[3213.14 --> 3215.44] I am no longer worthy to be called your son. -[3216.52 --> 3218.70] But the father said to his servants, -[3219.34 --> 3222.26] quick, bring the best robe and put it on him. -[3222.62 --> 3223.34] Bring a ring, -[3223.64 --> 3226.26] put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. -[3226.78 --> 3228.48] Bring the fattened calf and kill it. -[3228.56 --> 3230.70] Let's have a feast and celebrate -[3230.70 --> 3233.14] for this son of mine was dead -[3233.14 --> 3234.68] and is alive again. -[3234.86 --> 3236.94] He was lost and is found. -[3236.94 --> 3239.46] And so they began to celebrate. -[3241.62 --> 3242.02] Meanwhile, -[3243.00 --> 3245.26] the older son was in the field. -[3245.86 --> 3247.20] When he came near the house, -[3247.54 --> 3249.32] he heard music and dancing. -[3249.80 --> 3251.60] And so he called out to one of the servants -[3251.60 --> 3253.32] and asked what was going on. -[3254.06 --> 3255.14] Your brother has come, -[3255.28 --> 3255.80] he replied, -[3255.90 --> 3258.36] and your father has killed the fattened calf -[3258.36 --> 3261.80] because he has him back safe and sound. -[3261.80 --> 3265.14] The older brother became angry -[3265.14 --> 3266.60] and refused to go in. -[3267.76 --> 3269.10] And so his father went out -[3269.10 --> 3270.28] and pleaded with him. -[3271.40 --> 3273.36] But he answered his father, -[3273.80 --> 3274.80] Look, -[3275.02 --> 3276.36] all these years -[3276.36 --> 3278.02] I have been slaving -[3278.02 --> 3279.10] for you -[3279.10 --> 3280.92] and never disobeyed your orders. -[3281.28 --> 3282.62] Yet you never gave me -[3282.62 --> 3283.80] even a young goat -[3283.80 --> 3285.64] so I could celebrate with my friends. -[3286.00 --> 3288.08] And when this son of yours -[3288.08 --> 3289.68] who has squandered your property -[3289.68 --> 3291.22] with prostitutes come home, -[3291.42 --> 3293.42] you kill the fattened calf for him? -[3294.80 --> 3295.76] My son, -[3296.22 --> 3297.04] the father said, -[3297.60 --> 3301.26] you are always with me -[3301.26 --> 3304.44] and everything I have is yours. -[3305.36 --> 3307.06] But we had to celebrate -[3307.06 --> 3308.62] and be glad -[3308.62 --> 3310.80] because this brother of yours -[3310.80 --> 3311.58] was dead -[3311.58 --> 3313.62] and is alive again. -[3314.40 --> 3315.50] He was lost -[3315.50 --> 3317.20] and is found. -[3318.20 --> 3319.52] This is the word of the Lord. -[3319.68 --> 3326.40] This morning, -[3326.78 --> 3328.70] I want to talk to you -[3328.70 --> 3329.44] about -[3329.44 --> 3332.10] the presumption -[3332.10 --> 3333.90] of religiosity. -[3335.70 --> 3336.98] Now, I know that sounds -[3336.98 --> 3337.76] a little bit wordy -[3337.76 --> 3338.88] and it is. -[3339.24 --> 3339.88] I admit that. -[3340.80 --> 3342.06] But I also think -[3342.06 --> 3343.14] that the presumption -[3343.14 --> 3344.38] of religiosity -[3344.38 --> 3346.90] that is at root -[3346.90 --> 3348.34] or at least in part at root -[3348.34 --> 3350.78] why people leave the faith -[3350.78 --> 3351.78] that they grew up in, -[3352.32 --> 3353.46] whether they do so -[3353.46 --> 3354.06] as young adults -[3354.06 --> 3354.60] or older. -[3355.34 --> 3356.96] And I think it's the presumption -[3356.96 --> 3358.16] of religiosity -[3358.16 --> 3359.72] that contributes -[3359.72 --> 3361.36] to the dilemma -[3361.36 --> 3364.14] of deconstruction -[3364.14 --> 3365.82] or the phenomenon -[3365.82 --> 3368.04] of what's called -[3368.04 --> 3369.06] exvangelical -[3369.06 --> 3370.42] in the world today. -[3370.42 --> 3371.98] Now, again, -[3372.10 --> 3372.78] I realize that -[3372.78 --> 3373.80] those are a couple words -[3373.80 --> 3374.64] that you may not -[3374.64 --> 3375.42] be familiar with -[3375.42 --> 3376.12] if you don't listen -[3376.12 --> 3377.02] to the same podcast -[3377.02 --> 3377.86] circuit that I do. -[3379.44 --> 3379.72] So, -[3380.74 --> 3382.16] if you are -[3382.16 --> 3384.28] 40 and older -[3384.28 --> 3385.60] and kind of grew up -[3385.60 --> 3386.82] in the Christian Reformed Church, -[3387.34 --> 3388.56] you might recognize -[3388.56 --> 3389.20] the name -[3389.20 --> 3390.16] Josh Harris. -[3391.44 --> 3392.56] Josh Harris -[3392.56 --> 3394.38] wrote the book -[3394.38 --> 3395.72] I Kissed Dating Goodbye. -[3395.72 --> 3395.88] Right? -[3397.18 --> 3399.72] And in the early 90s, -[3399.80 --> 3402.36] it was particularly powerful -[3402.36 --> 3403.74] in youth ministry -[3403.74 --> 3405.16] and particularly formative -[3405.16 --> 3406.48] in youth ministry -[3406.48 --> 3409.26] and some would say -[3409.26 --> 3411.00] it is the source -[3411.00 --> 3411.98] of what became known -[3411.98 --> 3412.90] as purity culture. -[3413.88 --> 3415.08] A few years ago, -[3415.38 --> 3416.02] Josh Harris, -[3416.18 --> 3417.78] who having written that book, -[3417.94 --> 3418.98] became a sort of -[3418.98 --> 3420.24] evangelical superstar, -[3420.86 --> 3421.88] started pastoring -[3421.88 --> 3423.22] in a large church. -[3423.22 --> 3426.38] And then in 2014, -[3426.72 --> 3427.14] I think, -[3427.48 --> 3427.74] said, -[3427.82 --> 3428.16] you know what? -[3428.18 --> 3428.88] I've been pastoring -[3428.88 --> 3429.96] for some 20 years. -[3430.32 --> 3430.96] I should probably -[3430.96 --> 3431.72] go to seminary. -[3433.06 --> 3434.32] Went to seminary -[3434.32 --> 3436.06] and while in seminary, -[3436.30 --> 3436.66] he, quote, -[3436.78 --> 3437.72] lost his faith. -[3439.32 --> 3441.32] He deconstructed -[3441.32 --> 3442.40] the assumptions -[3442.40 --> 3443.36] that he had had -[3443.36 --> 3444.14] about what it means -[3444.14 --> 3444.82] to be Christian -[3444.82 --> 3446.34] and to live in the world -[3446.34 --> 3447.88] and he had lost it. -[3448.14 --> 3449.50] And now, -[3449.72 --> 3450.24] Josh Harris, -[3450.34 --> 3450.96] actually having -[3450.96 --> 3452.26] divorced his wife -[3452.26 --> 3453.32] and left his faith, -[3453.92 --> 3456.70] now has an online program -[3456.70 --> 3457.22] in school -[3457.22 --> 3458.18] that you can go to -[3458.18 --> 3459.16] that helps you -[3459.16 --> 3460.40] deconstruct your own faith. -[3461.34 --> 3462.14] So he's become -[3462.14 --> 3463.12] a missionary -[3463.12 --> 3464.32] to leave -[3464.32 --> 3465.28] the Christian faith. -[3466.58 --> 3467.26] Jen Hatmaker -[3467.26 --> 3468.12] is another name -[3468.12 --> 3469.18] maybe you're familiar with, -[3469.30 --> 3469.96] especially if you're -[3469.96 --> 3471.34] a woman of a particular age. -[3471.78 --> 3473.14] She was very influential -[3473.14 --> 3474.00] in her reading, -[3474.44 --> 3475.12] in her books, -[3475.40 --> 3476.42] and in her speaking. -[3477.10 --> 3478.14] She also recently -[3478.14 --> 3479.98] deconstructed her faith -[3479.98 --> 3481.32] and has now -[3481.32 --> 3482.20] walked away -[3482.20 --> 3482.76] or at least -[3482.76 --> 3484.06] dramatically changed -[3484.06 --> 3484.54] her idea -[3484.54 --> 3485.18] of what it means -[3485.18 --> 3485.84] to be Christian -[3485.84 --> 3486.80] so that it doesn't -[3486.80 --> 3487.58] look anything like -[3487.58 --> 3488.08] what she used -[3488.08 --> 3488.66] to talk about. -[3489.30 --> 3490.14] Another name here -[3490.14 --> 3491.00] that you might be -[3491.00 --> 3491.48] familiar with -[3491.48 --> 3492.64] is Rhett McLaughlin. -[3493.20 --> 3494.12] Rhett and Link -[3494.12 --> 3495.08] have a YouTube channel. -[3495.20 --> 3496.12] They're YouTube personalities. -[3496.36 --> 3497.02] They're really famous. -[3498.70 --> 3500.42] They both were... -[3500.42 --> 3501.18] Rhett was, I think, -[3501.96 --> 3503.60] actually like a staffer -[3503.60 --> 3504.84] with Campus Crusade -[3504.84 --> 3505.34] for Christ -[3505.34 --> 3506.18] when he was younger. -[3506.96 --> 3507.38] He, too, -[3507.46 --> 3508.32] has a very famous -[3508.32 --> 3509.26] and well-documented -[3509.26 --> 3511.18] journey of leaving the faith. -[3511.28 --> 3511.48] In fact, -[3511.56 --> 3512.64] just this past week, -[3512.72 --> 3513.02] I think, -[3513.08 --> 3514.06] or two weeks ago, -[3514.48 --> 3515.18] Rhett released -[3515.18 --> 3516.58] a country music song -[3516.58 --> 3517.72] documenting -[3517.72 --> 3518.80] and talking about -[3518.80 --> 3519.54] his experience -[3519.54 --> 3520.64] of leaving the faith -[3520.64 --> 3521.52] that it's now charting -[3521.52 --> 3522.22] all over the place -[3522.22 --> 3523.38] because of his influence. -[3523.96 --> 3524.58] And the song, -[3524.74 --> 3525.54] I listened to it, -[3525.56 --> 3526.72] is genuinely heartbreaking -[3526.72 --> 3528.20] and not just because -[3528.20 --> 3528.88] it's country music, -[3528.94 --> 3529.86] which I'm not a fan of, -[3530.62 --> 3532.22] but the story it tells -[3532.22 --> 3534.28] is genuinely heartbreaking. -[3534.28 --> 3538.00] My suggestion, -[3538.66 --> 3539.32] and part of why -[3539.32 --> 3539.94] I want to enter -[3539.94 --> 3541.04] into this conversation, -[3541.26 --> 3542.98] is that part of why -[3542.98 --> 3543.96] all of these people -[3543.96 --> 3545.22] have left the faith -[3545.22 --> 3546.12] or walked away -[3546.12 --> 3548.66] is in relation to -[3548.66 --> 3549.88] the presumption -[3549.88 --> 3551.02] of religiosity. -[3551.50 --> 3552.24] We'll get into that. -[3553.24 --> 3555.62] Now, without that phrase, then, -[3555.68 --> 3556.44] so the theme -[3556.44 --> 3557.46] that I want to reflect -[3557.46 --> 3558.26] with you on, -[3558.56 --> 3559.76] the sort of big idea -[3559.76 --> 3560.40] for today, -[3561.14 --> 3561.82] is this. -[3561.82 --> 3563.46] The compassion -[3563.46 --> 3564.52] of the Father -[3564.52 --> 3568.32] draws and divides. -[3569.40 --> 3570.42] It really depends -[3570.42 --> 3571.24] on your perspective. -[3572.76 --> 3573.66] The compassion -[3573.66 --> 3574.34] of the Father -[3574.34 --> 3576.42] draws and divides. -[3577.32 --> 3577.72] Ultimately, -[3577.86 --> 3578.32] it depends on -[3578.32 --> 3579.10] your perspective. -[3579.22 --> 3579.82] Now, we're going to -[3579.82 --> 3580.54] dig into that -[3580.54 --> 3581.08] and we'll define -[3581.08 --> 3581.50] these things -[3581.50 --> 3582.90] a little bit more closely, -[3583.04 --> 3583.50] but first, -[3584.24 --> 3585.38] let's remind each other -[3585.38 --> 3586.92] of the stage -[3586.92 --> 3588.18] that we are on -[3588.18 --> 3588.98] in this parable. -[3588.98 --> 3590.86] because Jesus -[3590.86 --> 3592.10] is talking to -[3592.10 --> 3593.88] a group of Pharisees -[3593.88 --> 3595.18] in Luke 15. -[3596.50 --> 3597.06] Right? -[3597.10 --> 3598.06] And the Pharisees -[3598.06 --> 3600.48] are the religious elite -[3600.48 --> 3601.80] in Jewish culture. -[3602.72 --> 3603.34] And not just -[3603.34 --> 3604.44] the religious elite, -[3604.64 --> 3606.30] Pharisees make up -[3606.30 --> 3608.38] one half of the Sanhedrin, -[3608.66 --> 3609.52] which is the Jewish -[3609.52 --> 3610.72] ruling class. -[3611.36 --> 3611.54] Right? -[3611.62 --> 3612.40] And this Jewish -[3612.40 --> 3613.32] ruling class, -[3613.64 --> 3614.90] by virtue of their -[3614.90 --> 3616.06] own political savvy, -[3616.26 --> 3618.52] has managed to carve out -[3618.52 --> 3619.46] a small little -[3619.46 --> 3620.68] corner of autonomy -[3620.68 --> 3622.26] in the Roman Empire -[3622.26 --> 3623.78] of which they were subjects. -[3624.18 --> 3625.58] So, in Judea, -[3625.98 --> 3626.96] the Sanhedrin -[3626.96 --> 3628.68] carries a lot of authority -[3628.68 --> 3630.12] and a lot of weight. -[3631.22 --> 3631.44] Right? -[3631.48 --> 3632.50] And the Pharisees, -[3632.58 --> 3633.56] as religious leaders, -[3633.70 --> 3634.50] are not just -[3634.50 --> 3635.72] then religious leaders, -[3635.82 --> 3636.46] but they're social -[3636.46 --> 3637.60] and political leaders -[3637.60 --> 3638.26] as well. -[3638.48 --> 3639.36] These men -[3639.36 --> 3640.40] are the movers -[3640.40 --> 3641.60] and shakers -[3641.60 --> 3642.38] of the world. -[3642.46 --> 3643.26] They hold -[3643.26 --> 3645.60] social and religious power -[3645.60 --> 3647.00] for the population -[3647.00 --> 3648.72] over which they lead. -[3649.38 --> 3649.56] Right? -[3649.60 --> 3650.22] They determine -[3650.22 --> 3651.48] people's futures -[3651.48 --> 3653.56] and people's standing -[3653.56 --> 3655.02] by their decrees, -[3655.12 --> 3656.28] by their will. -[3657.40 --> 3658.86] If the Jewish religion -[3658.86 --> 3659.76] of this day -[3659.76 --> 3660.98] had a poster child, -[3661.72 --> 3663.04] it would be a Pharisee. -[3664.66 --> 3664.84] Right? -[3664.88 --> 3665.50] These are people -[3665.50 --> 3666.20] of status -[3666.20 --> 3667.34] and prestige -[3667.34 --> 3669.10] who are now -[3669.10 --> 3669.90] muttering -[3669.90 --> 3672.00] because Jesus, -[3672.40 --> 3673.54] who is a rabbi, -[3673.54 --> 3674.66] is eating -[3674.66 --> 3676.54] with tax collectors -[3676.54 --> 3677.92] and sinners. -[3679.14 --> 3680.38] And that's the stage -[3680.38 --> 3681.00] that we're on. -[3681.14 --> 3681.32] Right? -[3681.50 --> 3682.50] You've got the cultural -[3682.50 --> 3683.90] and religious elite -[3683.90 --> 3684.94] on one side -[3684.94 --> 3686.36] and the lowest -[3686.36 --> 3687.30] of the low -[3687.30 --> 3688.52] on the other side. -[3689.48 --> 3690.46] And Jesus -[3690.46 --> 3692.20] isn't in the middle -[3692.20 --> 3693.88] of both groups. -[3694.32 --> 3695.46] He's in the middle -[3695.46 --> 3696.20] of the lowest -[3696.20 --> 3696.74] of the low. -[3697.76 --> 3698.78] He's in the middle -[3698.78 --> 3699.82] of the tax collectors -[3699.82 --> 3701.20] and the sinners. -[3701.72 --> 3702.24] And so, -[3702.56 --> 3703.48] the elite -[3703.48 --> 3704.68] mutter. -[3705.16 --> 3706.20] They grumble. -[3707.42 --> 3707.56] Now, -[3707.58 --> 3707.88] as I was -[3707.88 --> 3709.24] thinking about this, -[3709.34 --> 3711.02] I liken their grumbling -[3711.02 --> 3712.42] to that -[3712.42 --> 3714.84] not-so-careful -[3714.84 --> 3715.34] whisper -[3715.34 --> 3716.82] that you sometimes -[3716.82 --> 3718.22] hear people use. -[3718.30 --> 3718.46] Right? -[3718.52 --> 3719.46] That they say -[3719.46 --> 3720.26] to make sure -[3720.26 --> 3720.92] that the person -[3720.92 --> 3721.88] they're talking about -[3721.88 --> 3722.88] hears it -[3722.88 --> 3725.54] but not loud enough -[3725.54 --> 3727.50] to be overtly aggressive -[3727.50 --> 3728.92] but just loud enough -[3728.92 --> 3729.82] to be passively -[3729.82 --> 3730.76] aggressive. -[3731.38 --> 3731.54] Right? -[3731.60 --> 3732.20] You hear it -[3732.20 --> 3732.56] and you know -[3732.56 --> 3733.26] it's going to hurt -[3733.26 --> 3735.36] but it's still -[3735.36 --> 3735.84] a whisper. -[3735.96 --> 3736.78] It's a whisper -[3736.78 --> 3737.30] that's meant -[3737.30 --> 3738.32] to cut. -[3739.72 --> 3740.12] Now, -[3740.20 --> 3740.54] I don't want -[3740.54 --> 3740.98] to say anything -[3740.98 --> 3741.68] about those of you -[3741.68 --> 3742.58] who are high school age -[3742.58 --> 3743.48] now but when I was -[3743.48 --> 3744.08] in high school -[3744.08 --> 3745.82] that tone of voice -[3745.82 --> 3746.86] was really popular -[3746.86 --> 3747.64] among the girls. -[3749.00 --> 3749.44] Right? -[3749.48 --> 3750.10] That's how girls -[3750.10 --> 3751.76] talked about each other. -[3751.88 --> 3752.00] Now, -[3752.02 --> 3753.00] maybe you're probably -[3753.00 --> 3754.02] all better than that now -[3754.02 --> 3755.14] and yet, -[3755.34 --> 3756.00] I saw a few of you -[3756.00 --> 3756.22] nod. -[3756.22 --> 3758.66] And look, -[3759.80 --> 3760.46] complainers -[3760.46 --> 3761.36] are going to complain. -[3762.40 --> 3763.38] That's just what they do. -[3764.66 --> 3765.02] Right? -[3765.06 --> 3766.02] And I want to say that again. -[3766.26 --> 3767.26] Complainers are going to complain. -[3767.36 --> 3768.08] That's just what they do. -[3768.18 --> 3768.42] And so, -[3768.78 --> 3769.02] I mean, -[3769.06 --> 3770.06] if you're a complainer, -[3770.36 --> 3771.06] recognize I know -[3771.06 --> 3771.88] that's just what you do. -[3772.22 --> 3772.38] So, -[3772.42 --> 3773.22] I give your complaints -[3773.22 --> 3774.40] the appropriate amount of weight. -[3774.80 --> 3775.56] But that's not -[3775.56 --> 3776.38] what's happening here. -[3777.34 --> 3777.52] Right? -[3777.58 --> 3778.46] This is something -[3778.46 --> 3779.26] different. -[3780.26 --> 3781.06] These people -[3781.06 --> 3782.16] have comfortably -[3782.16 --> 3783.36] sat in privilege -[3783.36 --> 3784.68] and in power -[3784.68 --> 3786.14] over the society -[3786.14 --> 3786.96] and Jesus -[3786.96 --> 3787.84] isn't respecting -[3787.84 --> 3788.38] the rules. -[3789.54 --> 3790.60] He isn't respecting -[3790.60 --> 3791.44] the roles. -[3792.30 --> 3792.40] Right? -[3792.42 --> 3792.94] He's upsetting -[3792.94 --> 3793.70] the system. -[3793.94 --> 3794.62] He's challenging -[3794.62 --> 3795.56] the status quo -[3795.56 --> 3797.16] and he's poking -[3797.16 --> 3799.22] at the carefully -[3799.22 --> 3800.26] crafted -[3800.26 --> 3801.46] but ultimately -[3801.46 --> 3802.36] artificial -[3802.36 --> 3803.74] superstructure -[3803.74 --> 3804.62] of their power -[3804.62 --> 3805.58] and authority -[3805.58 --> 3806.84] and as they listen -[3806.84 --> 3807.30] to him -[3807.30 --> 3808.06] and see him -[3808.06 --> 3809.30] they are imagining -[3809.30 --> 3810.48] it all crumble. -[3811.58 --> 3812.32] He's not playing -[3812.32 --> 3813.16] by their rules -[3813.16 --> 3814.02] and they aren't -[3814.02 --> 3815.56] happy about it. -[3817.58 --> 3818.18] Eventually, -[3818.52 --> 3819.12] they're muttering -[3819.12 --> 3820.08] in groups -[3820.08 --> 3820.98] and whispered -[3820.98 --> 3821.68] conversations. -[3822.02 --> 3822.16] Right? -[3822.18 --> 3823.22] If you take the story -[3823.22 --> 3823.78] through the rest -[3823.78 --> 3824.40] of the gospel -[3824.40 --> 3825.42] turns into -[3825.42 --> 3826.30] backroom deals -[3826.30 --> 3826.96] of betrayal -[3826.96 --> 3827.98] and that leads -[3827.98 --> 3828.52] to shouts -[3828.52 --> 3829.84] of crucify him -[3829.84 --> 3831.18] in the palace square. -[3832.94 --> 3834.48] And don't miss this. -[3836.40 --> 3837.00] Jesus -[3837.00 --> 3838.34] knows -[3838.34 --> 3839.28] all of them. -[3841.18 --> 3841.70] He knows -[3841.70 --> 3842.78] their hearts -[3842.78 --> 3844.38] and he knows -[3844.38 --> 3845.22] exactly -[3845.22 --> 3846.76] where this is going. -[3847.76 --> 3847.86] Right? -[3847.96 --> 3849.18] Everything he says -[3849.18 --> 3849.82] and does -[3849.82 --> 3850.46] is done -[3850.46 --> 3852.34] in Luke's gospel -[3852.34 --> 3853.30] after chapter 9 -[3853.30 --> 3854.20] in what Luke writes -[3854.20 --> 3854.84] is the shadow -[3854.84 --> 3855.52] of the cross. -[3855.60 --> 3856.22] So Jesus knows -[3856.22 --> 3856.92] exactly -[3856.92 --> 3858.30] where this is all going. -[3858.40 --> 3858.84] He knows -[3858.84 --> 3859.40] their hearts. -[3859.74 --> 3860.22] He knows -[3860.22 --> 3861.06] where his mission -[3861.06 --> 3861.60] will take him. -[3861.66 --> 3862.24] He knows -[3862.24 --> 3863.16] that the cross -[3863.16 --> 3863.78] is coming -[3863.78 --> 3865.30] and then to expose -[3865.30 --> 3866.70] and to address -[3866.70 --> 3867.70] the presumption -[3867.70 --> 3868.68] of their own -[3868.68 --> 3869.80] privilege and power, -[3869.80 --> 3870.48] the presumption -[3870.48 --> 3871.84] of their religiosity, -[3872.34 --> 3872.48] right, -[3872.50 --> 3873.68] to reveal the depths -[3873.68 --> 3875.10] of their own heart, -[3875.26 --> 3876.16] to show the truth -[3876.16 --> 3877.50] of their own misunderstanding, -[3877.88 --> 3878.72] Jesus tells them -[3878.72 --> 3879.36] our story. -[3880.86 --> 3881.44] He tells them -[3881.44 --> 3882.54] three stories -[3882.54 --> 3884.52] in this chapter 15. -[3885.12 --> 3885.62] Our focus -[3885.62 --> 3886.22] is on the third. -[3887.50 --> 3887.86] Like I said, -[3887.92 --> 3888.36] most of you -[3888.36 --> 3888.82] are probably -[3888.82 --> 3889.60] really familiar -[3889.60 --> 3891.10] with this story, -[3891.46 --> 3891.70] right? -[3891.74 --> 3892.78] You probably know it -[3892.78 --> 3893.92] as the prodigal son. -[3894.30 --> 3895.22] Maybe you're familiar -[3895.22 --> 3896.00] with the famous -[3896.00 --> 3897.04] Rembrandt painting. -[3897.18 --> 3897.64] I think we have -[3897.64 --> 3898.92] a copy of it. -[3899.76 --> 3900.94] The Rembrandt painting -[3900.94 --> 3903.66] is one of those paintings -[3903.66 --> 3905.64] that has moved me -[3905.64 --> 3907.70] even as I look at it. -[3908.78 --> 3909.82] Art historians -[3909.82 --> 3910.40] will tell you -[3910.40 --> 3911.16] that this is like -[3911.16 --> 3912.00] the height -[3912.00 --> 3913.56] of Rembrandt's skill -[3913.56 --> 3914.24] and craft -[3914.24 --> 3914.96] and the way -[3914.96 --> 3916.04] he's able to convey -[3916.04 --> 3916.68] the spirituality -[3916.68 --> 3918.10] here in his realistic -[3918.10 --> 3918.56] structures -[3918.56 --> 3920.02] is just profound -[3920.02 --> 3921.06] and amazing. -[3923.06 --> 3923.92] So we know -[3923.92 --> 3925.50] this story, -[3925.94 --> 3926.62] this parable, -[3926.62 --> 3927.16] along with -[3927.16 --> 3928.00] the Good Samaritan -[3928.00 --> 3928.86] is perhaps -[3928.86 --> 3929.78] the one that you -[3929.78 --> 3930.28] think about -[3930.28 --> 3930.76] when you think -[3930.76 --> 3931.40] of the parables -[3931.40 --> 3932.42] of Jesus, -[3933.20 --> 3933.38] right? -[3933.40 --> 3934.38] And there's a lot here -[3934.38 --> 3935.18] and so no wonder -[3935.18 --> 3936.52] it's full. -[3937.18 --> 3937.88] The point is -[3937.88 --> 3938.68] in outlining -[3938.68 --> 3939.24] all of this -[3939.24 --> 3939.82] is that I want you -[3939.82 --> 3940.42] to take our -[3940.42 --> 3941.42] conversation here, -[3941.54 --> 3942.32] take what we're -[3942.32 --> 3943.08] talking about here -[3943.08 --> 3943.58] this morning -[3943.58 --> 3944.68] as a starter -[3944.68 --> 3945.68] to a conversation -[3945.68 --> 3946.60] that you can continue -[3946.60 --> 3947.54] with your family -[3947.54 --> 3948.24] or your friends -[3948.24 --> 3948.90] with your kids -[3948.90 --> 3949.88] or grandkids -[3949.88 --> 3950.66] or with your parents -[3950.66 --> 3951.58] or whomever, -[3951.92 --> 3952.04] right? -[3952.08 --> 3953.12] Keep the discussions -[3953.12 --> 3955.52] going through the week. -[3956.62 --> 3956.98] So, -[3957.62 --> 3958.40] you know the story, -[3958.48 --> 3959.22] we read the story, -[3959.86 --> 3960.06] right? -[3960.12 --> 3960.98] A young son -[3960.98 --> 3962.38] says to his father, -[3962.66 --> 3962.96] Dad, -[3963.16 --> 3964.30] I want my share -[3964.30 --> 3965.14] of the estate -[3965.14 --> 3965.98] or Dad, -[3966.08 --> 3967.26] I want my inheritance. -[3968.66 --> 3968.90] Now, -[3969.16 --> 3970.50] I don't want to be -[3970.50 --> 3971.00] crass, -[3972.00 --> 3973.16] but get what -[3973.16 --> 3973.74] that means. -[3974.86 --> 3975.78] This is a son -[3975.78 --> 3976.80] coming up to his father -[3976.80 --> 3977.18] saying, -[3977.34 --> 3977.56] Dad, -[3978.00 --> 3979.90] I wish you were dead. -[3979.90 --> 3984.48] From a spiritual -[3984.48 --> 3985.26] point of view, -[3986.16 --> 3987.30] what that reveals -[3987.30 --> 3988.58] is that this younger -[3988.58 --> 3990.12] son is actually -[3990.12 --> 3990.92] already the one -[3990.92 --> 3991.48] who's dead -[3991.48 --> 3992.36] on the inside, -[3993.54 --> 3993.68] right? -[3993.72 --> 3994.28] And the father -[3994.28 --> 3995.08] acknowledges that -[3995.08 --> 3995.86] as the son returns. -[3995.98 --> 3997.20] My son was dead, -[3997.40 --> 3998.08] but he has come -[3998.08 --> 3998.84] back to us, -[3999.04 --> 3999.20] right? -[3999.22 --> 4000.60] He is spiritually dead. -[4000.68 --> 4002.32] He has had a hole -[4002.32 --> 4004.14] in his life -[4004.14 --> 4005.12] and he believes -[4005.12 --> 4006.32] that if he takes -[4006.32 --> 4007.22] this inheritance, -[4007.52 --> 4008.14] this wealth, -[4008.14 --> 4009.14] and then he goes -[4009.14 --> 4010.58] and lives frivolously, -[4010.78 --> 4011.86] if he takes the riches -[4011.86 --> 4013.32] and spends it on parties -[4013.32 --> 4014.42] and on fine food -[4014.42 --> 4015.32] and on women -[4015.32 --> 4016.30] and things, -[4016.44 --> 4017.76] that he might finally -[4017.76 --> 4019.12] have satisfaction. -[4019.36 --> 4020.08] He might finally -[4020.08 --> 4021.26] find joy. -[4021.62 --> 4021.90] Really, -[4022.08 --> 4023.96] there's a joy vacuum -[4023.96 --> 4025.16] in his heart -[4025.16 --> 4026.24] and he believes -[4026.24 --> 4027.16] that things -[4027.16 --> 4028.08] will fill it. -[4029.08 --> 4030.10] And he needs -[4030.10 --> 4031.50] the father to die -[4031.50 --> 4032.82] in order to get that. -[4035.26 --> 4035.82] Now, -[4035.92 --> 4036.30] at root, -[4036.30 --> 4038.72] spiritual belief -[4038.72 --> 4039.08] here -[4039.08 --> 4040.48] is this. -[4042.48 --> 4043.62] If I could just -[4043.62 --> 4044.48] have this -[4044.48 --> 4045.48] thing -[4045.48 --> 4046.68] or that thing, -[4046.86 --> 4047.88] I would be happy. -[4049.42 --> 4049.54] Right? -[4049.62 --> 4050.86] And to get that thing, -[4050.94 --> 4051.80] he believes -[4051.80 --> 4053.04] that he can no longer -[4053.04 --> 4054.20] be under the thumb -[4054.20 --> 4055.42] of his father. -[4055.74 --> 4056.66] His father needs -[4056.66 --> 4057.12] to die. -[4058.74 --> 4059.94] And then the father, -[4060.80 --> 4061.04] right, -[4061.14 --> 4061.88] in an act -[4061.88 --> 4062.92] that can only -[4062.92 --> 4063.74] be understood -[4063.74 --> 4065.50] as one of immense -[4065.50 --> 4066.42] grace -[4066.42 --> 4067.76] and selflessness, -[4068.18 --> 4069.18] permits the son -[4069.18 --> 4070.24] the freedom -[4070.24 --> 4071.72] to go the way -[4071.72 --> 4072.60] of his choosing. -[4074.64 --> 4075.26] And again, -[4075.34 --> 4076.06] you know the results, -[4076.16 --> 4076.32] right? -[4076.38 --> 4076.92] For a while, -[4077.02 --> 4077.70] it works out, -[4078.12 --> 4079.46] but not for long. -[4079.94 --> 4080.24] Eventually, -[4080.32 --> 4081.08] the money runs out, -[4081.16 --> 4082.08] the good times pass, -[4082.12 --> 4082.66] and the so-called -[4082.66 --> 4083.88] friends made along the way -[4083.88 --> 4084.70] seem to disappear. -[4085.48 --> 4086.60] And with nothing left -[4086.60 --> 4087.62] but only the company -[4087.62 --> 4088.26] and food -[4088.26 --> 4090.08] of unclean pigs, -[4090.08 --> 4091.12] he remembers -[4091.12 --> 4092.72] his father. -[4093.96 --> 4094.54] And remembering -[4094.54 --> 4095.16] his father, -[4095.32 --> 4095.78] he thinks, -[4096.12 --> 4096.92] maybe he will -[4096.92 --> 4097.58] accept me -[4097.58 --> 4098.36] as a slave -[4098.36 --> 4099.54] if I return to him. -[4100.44 --> 4100.90] But the father -[4100.90 --> 4101.92] doesn't just accept him -[4101.92 --> 4102.64] as a slave, -[4102.82 --> 4103.74] he welcomes him back -[4103.74 --> 4104.60] as a son, -[4104.72 --> 4105.50] back from the dead. -[4105.60 --> 4106.50] He runs out -[4106.50 --> 4107.38] to greet him. -[4107.42 --> 4107.72] And again, -[4107.82 --> 4108.20] hear that, -[4108.24 --> 4109.56] a father running -[4109.56 --> 4110.46] to a son, -[4110.80 --> 4111.98] especially a son -[4111.98 --> 4113.46] who has scorned -[4113.46 --> 4114.32] him in that way, -[4114.38 --> 4114.76] would have been -[4114.76 --> 4115.30] the height -[4115.30 --> 4116.26] of humility -[4116.26 --> 4117.34] for the father -[4117.34 --> 4118.28] in the ancient -[4118.28 --> 4119.08] Near Eastern culture. -[4119.08 --> 4120.48] It would be an indignity -[4120.48 --> 4122.06] to see this man run, -[4122.32 --> 4122.82] but the father -[4122.82 --> 4123.40] doesn't care. -[4124.24 --> 4124.82] He runs. -[4125.62 --> 4126.38] And he welcomes -[4126.38 --> 4126.94] his son -[4126.94 --> 4128.12] with open arms -[4128.12 --> 4128.90] and he calls -[4128.90 --> 4129.56] for a feast -[4129.56 --> 4130.94] and he clothes him -[4130.94 --> 4132.08] in the best robes. -[4132.12 --> 4132.80] He puts a ring -[4132.80 --> 4133.70] on his finger. -[4133.84 --> 4134.72] He welcomes him -[4134.72 --> 4136.28] back as a son. -[4138.68 --> 4138.90] Now, -[4139.20 --> 4140.86] it's actually -[4140.86 --> 4141.20] going to be -[4141.20 --> 4141.94] the other brother -[4141.94 --> 4143.44] that I want to spend -[4143.44 --> 4144.76] most of our time -[4144.76 --> 4145.58] digging into -[4145.58 --> 4146.56] this morning. -[4147.30 --> 4148.26] But before I jump -[4148.26 --> 4148.70] to him, -[4148.70 --> 4149.78] another word -[4149.78 --> 4150.96] about this brother. -[4151.72 --> 4152.38] Like I've said, -[4152.44 --> 4153.84] you've heard this story. -[4155.10 --> 4156.30] If you're using -[4156.30 --> 4158.38] a certain translation -[4158.38 --> 4158.92] of the Bible, -[4159.06 --> 4159.86] the heading here -[4159.86 --> 4160.86] probably even says -[4160.86 --> 4161.78] the prodigal son. -[4163.00 --> 4163.60] And culturally, -[4164.36 --> 4165.32] we use that word -[4165.32 --> 4166.02] prodigal -[4166.02 --> 4167.36] to mean -[4167.36 --> 4168.20] lost -[4168.20 --> 4169.50] or to mean -[4169.50 --> 4170.32] wandering. -[4171.28 --> 4171.70] Right? -[4171.74 --> 4172.20] You might hear -[4172.20 --> 4172.86] someone say, -[4173.16 --> 4174.18] I was a prodigal -[4174.18 --> 4174.96] for a while. -[4175.66 --> 4175.78] Right? -[4175.78 --> 4176.48] And what they mean -[4176.48 --> 4177.06] by that is that -[4177.06 --> 4177.74] they were wandering -[4177.74 --> 4178.56] away from -[4178.56 --> 4180.26] whatever it was, -[4180.32 --> 4180.94] whatever community -[4180.94 --> 4181.74] they were part of. -[4181.78 --> 4182.32] They wandered, -[4182.46 --> 4183.34] they got lost. -[4184.04 --> 4184.76] And really, -[4185.18 --> 4185.32] right, -[4185.38 --> 4186.30] outside of the context -[4186.30 --> 4187.02] of this parable, -[4187.10 --> 4187.84] the word prodigal -[4187.84 --> 4188.46] is not one -[4188.46 --> 4189.32] that we use -[4189.32 --> 4190.16] regularly. -[4192.16 --> 4192.74] And so, -[4192.80 --> 4193.58] you might be surprised -[4193.58 --> 4194.10] to learn -[4194.10 --> 4194.60] that the word -[4194.60 --> 4195.14] prodigal -[4195.14 --> 4195.80] doesn't mean -[4195.80 --> 4196.40] lost. -[4197.16 --> 4197.96] It doesn't mean -[4197.96 --> 4198.58] wandering. -[4200.38 --> 4200.78] Prodigal, -[4200.78 --> 4201.62] as an adjective, -[4202.18 --> 4203.02] means spending -[4203.02 --> 4204.08] money or resources -[4204.08 --> 4205.40] freely and recklessly. -[4205.64 --> 4206.10] It means being -[4206.10 --> 4207.52] wastefully extravagant. -[4207.82 --> 4208.52] It means having -[4208.52 --> 4209.48] or giving something -[4209.48 --> 4210.92] on a lavish scale. -[4211.80 --> 4212.14] Prodigal, -[4212.28 --> 4212.82] as a noun, -[4213.00 --> 4213.58] is a person -[4213.58 --> 4214.50] who spends money -[4214.50 --> 4215.28] in a recklessly -[4215.28 --> 4216.72] extravagant way. -[4217.44 --> 4217.62] And so, -[4217.68 --> 4218.12] when we talk about -[4218.12 --> 4218.88] the prodigal son, -[4218.96 --> 4219.38] we're not talking -[4219.38 --> 4220.16] about his lostness -[4220.16 --> 4220.78] or his wandering, -[4220.90 --> 4221.24] but the way -[4221.24 --> 4221.80] that he spends -[4221.80 --> 4223.40] his father's wealth. -[4224.54 --> 4224.72] Right? -[4225.10 --> 4225.72] Squandering it -[4225.72 --> 4226.40] on drink -[4226.40 --> 4227.64] and prostitutes -[4227.64 --> 4228.72] and parties. -[4229.54 --> 4230.14] But also, -[4230.14 --> 4232.74] even more so, -[4233.12 --> 4233.92] in this second -[4233.92 --> 4235.20] definition there -[4235.20 --> 4236.26] of having -[4236.26 --> 4237.20] or giving something -[4237.20 --> 4238.48] on a lavish scale, -[4238.74 --> 4239.38] I have a question -[4239.38 --> 4239.82] for you. -[4240.82 --> 4241.90] Who gives -[4241.90 --> 4243.18] on a lavish scale -[4243.18 --> 4244.22] in this parable? -[4246.58 --> 4247.52] The father. -[4249.02 --> 4249.92] The father -[4249.92 --> 4250.60] is the one -[4250.60 --> 4251.58] who is acting -[4251.58 --> 4252.62] prodigiously. -[4253.28 --> 4253.74] That's the -[4253.74 --> 4254.60] adverbial form -[4254.60 --> 4255.30] for those of you -[4255.30 --> 4255.60] who care. -[4256.46 --> 4257.46] The father -[4257.46 --> 4258.98] is the one -[4258.98 --> 4260.92] who is waiting -[4260.92 --> 4262.06] and is looking. -[4262.78 --> 4263.70] And when we see -[4263.70 --> 4264.52] the father -[4264.52 --> 4265.86] as a stand-in -[4265.86 --> 4266.70] in the story -[4266.70 --> 4267.72] for God, -[4267.82 --> 4268.36] what we learn -[4268.36 --> 4269.32] is that God -[4269.32 --> 4270.04] is the one -[4270.04 --> 4270.78] who is giving -[4270.78 --> 4271.98] lavishly. -[4272.84 --> 4272.96] Right? -[4272.96 --> 4273.48] It's the grace -[4273.48 --> 4274.12] of God -[4274.12 --> 4274.70] that is an -[4274.70 --> 4276.30] impossibly lavish -[4276.30 --> 4276.94] gift. -[4277.04 --> 4277.86] It is given -[4277.86 --> 4278.42] to those -[4278.42 --> 4279.22] who are ultimately -[4279.22 --> 4280.46] undeserving, -[4280.66 --> 4281.10] or rather, -[4281.22 --> 4282.90] those who are -[4282.90 --> 4283.92] ultimately -[4283.92 --> 4285.00] deserving punishment. -[4285.00 --> 4287.04] but he welcomes -[4287.04 --> 4287.80] us home -[4287.80 --> 4288.86] as if raised -[4288.86 --> 4289.88] from the dead. -[4291.06 --> 4291.72] And so the real -[4291.72 --> 4292.98] prodigal in this -[4292.98 --> 4294.28] story is the -[4294.28 --> 4294.74] father. -[4295.16 --> 4295.96] It's God. -[4296.90 --> 4297.04] Right? -[4297.10 --> 4297.82] And so I've -[4297.82 --> 4298.58] called this parable -[4298.58 --> 4299.80] two lost sons -[4299.80 --> 4300.76] and a prodigal -[4300.76 --> 4301.06] God. -[4301.12 --> 4301.52] And I just want -[4301.52 --> 4302.48] to give that to -[4302.48 --> 4303.24] you and let that -[4303.24 --> 4304.06] bounce around in -[4304.06 --> 4304.56] your brains -[4304.56 --> 4305.84] this week and -[4305.84 --> 4307.36] think what does -[4307.36 --> 4308.88] that mean for -[4308.88 --> 4309.40] how you see -[4309.40 --> 4309.70] God. -[4311.32 --> 4312.10] But for now, -[4312.46 --> 4313.30] back to the -[4313.30 --> 4313.72] second brother. -[4313.72 --> 4315.96] So on the one -[4315.96 --> 4316.96] hand, you have -[4316.96 --> 4317.44] a brother, you -[4317.44 --> 4318.00] have a son, -[4318.20 --> 4318.90] right, who wants -[4318.90 --> 4319.84] his father dead -[4319.84 --> 4320.68] but who remembers -[4320.68 --> 4321.26] him later. -[4322.30 --> 4323.08] And then you -[4323.08 --> 4323.66] have this other -[4323.66 --> 4323.92] son. -[4324.94 --> 4325.60] And like I said, -[4325.66 --> 4326.18] it's this other -[4326.18 --> 4327.24] son who interests -[4327.24 --> 4328.62] me this morning -[4328.62 --> 4329.44] as we think about -[4329.44 --> 4330.10] the presumption -[4330.10 --> 4331.44] of religiosity. -[4332.62 --> 4332.74] Right? -[4332.78 --> 4333.88] The older son -[4333.88 --> 4334.96] is the one for -[4334.96 --> 4335.88] whom the father -[4335.88 --> 4337.40] has always been -[4337.40 --> 4337.76] dead. -[4338.56 --> 4339.90] And so the son -[4339.90 --> 4340.46] has forgotten -[4340.46 --> 4340.94] himself. -[4341.94 --> 4342.76] So the younger -[4342.76 --> 4343.62] son wishes his -[4343.62 --> 4344.42] father dead but -[4344.42 --> 4345.10] remembers him -[4345.10 --> 4345.40] later. -[4346.12 --> 4347.26] The older son, -[4347.38 --> 4347.88] the father has -[4347.88 --> 4348.90] always been dead -[4348.90 --> 4350.14] and so forgets -[4350.14 --> 4351.10] himself. -[4352.38 --> 4352.90] Right? -[4352.94 --> 4353.64] The first wants -[4353.64 --> 4354.52] his father dead. -[4354.78 --> 4355.36] The second, -[4355.96 --> 4356.44] the father's -[4356.44 --> 4357.02] already dead. -[4357.98 --> 4359.22] The first remembers -[4359.22 --> 4360.68] his father and -[4360.68 --> 4361.26] his mercy. -[4361.72 --> 4363.14] The second forgets -[4363.14 --> 4364.10] who he already -[4364.10 --> 4364.46] is. -[4365.46 --> 4366.30] See what I mean -[4366.30 --> 4367.06] when we look. -[4368.12 --> 4369.04] The younger son -[4369.04 --> 4369.68] comes home. -[4369.76 --> 4370.46] His father runs -[4370.46 --> 4371.00] out to him. -[4371.00 --> 4371.72] He welcomes him -[4371.72 --> 4372.58] back as a son -[4372.58 --> 4374.02] not just in mercy -[4374.02 --> 4375.02] but in full -[4375.02 --> 4375.92] restoration to -[4375.92 --> 4376.36] sonship. -[4376.44 --> 4377.32] He throws a feast -[4377.32 --> 4378.46] to celebrate his -[4378.46 --> 4379.78] return and the -[4379.78 --> 4380.36] older brother -[4380.36 --> 4381.30] doesn't come. -[4382.40 --> 4383.26] He's out in the -[4383.26 --> 4383.52] field, -[4384.20 --> 4385.58] probably working, -[4386.64 --> 4387.72] definitely sulking. -[4387.72 --> 4390.90] But the father -[4390.90 --> 4391.70] goes out to that -[4391.70 --> 4393.20] son too. -[4394.26 --> 4395.12] And the father -[4395.12 --> 4396.12] pleads with that -[4396.12 --> 4397.64] son as well and -[4397.64 --> 4397.88] he says, -[4398.24 --> 4398.88] come to the -[4398.88 --> 4399.24] party. -[4399.52 --> 4400.48] But that son is -[4400.48 --> 4401.28] too angry. -[4402.06 --> 4402.18] Right? -[4402.22 --> 4402.48] He says, -[4402.58 --> 4403.60] all these years -[4403.60 --> 4404.68] I've been slaving -[4404.68 --> 4406.38] for you and -[4406.38 --> 4407.54] I've never -[4407.54 --> 4408.46] disobeyed. -[4409.74 --> 4410.40] Notice the -[4410.40 --> 4411.26] language that the -[4411.26 --> 4411.72] older brother -[4411.72 --> 4412.44] uses. -[4412.82 --> 4412.94] Right? -[4412.94 --> 4413.42] He says he's -[4413.42 --> 4415.00] been slaving for -[4415.00 --> 4415.56] his father. -[4415.56 --> 4416.96] Now does that -[4416.96 --> 4417.48] sound like he -[4417.48 --> 4417.94] likes what he -[4417.94 --> 4418.24] does? -[4420.12 --> 4420.64] Right? -[4420.66 --> 4422.08] As a slave for -[4422.08 --> 4423.02] the father he's -[4423.02 --> 4424.14] never disobeyed. -[4424.72 --> 4425.78] Does that sound -[4425.78 --> 4426.42] like joyful -[4426.42 --> 4427.54] obedience to you? -[4428.14 --> 4428.90] Or is it -[4428.90 --> 4429.44] something else? -[4431.12 --> 4431.26] Right? -[4431.28 --> 4432.04] If the younger -[4432.04 --> 4432.94] son wanted to -[4432.94 --> 4433.78] find joyful -[4433.78 --> 4434.62] living in -[4434.62 --> 4435.32] prostitutes and -[4435.32 --> 4435.82] in squandering -[4435.82 --> 4436.56] his inheritance, -[4436.84 --> 4437.80] the older brother -[4437.80 --> 4438.86] never knew joyful -[4438.86 --> 4439.76] living either. -[4440.56 --> 4440.94] Right? -[4440.94 --> 4441.52] He might be -[4441.52 --> 4442.56] doing what is -[4442.56 --> 4443.00] right. -[4443.52 --> 4444.06] He might be able -[4444.06 --> 4444.72] to check off -[4444.72 --> 4445.30] all of those -[4445.30 --> 4445.80] boxes, -[4446.04 --> 4446.54] but it's not -[4446.54 --> 4447.28] out of joy. -[4447.76 --> 4448.18] It's not in -[4448.18 --> 4449.16] gratitude to who -[4449.16 --> 4449.96] the father is. -[4450.60 --> 4450.70] Right? -[4450.80 --> 4451.44] Even his -[4451.44 --> 4452.86] obedience is a -[4452.86 --> 4453.12] burden. -[4454.04 --> 4454.72] There's no life -[4454.72 --> 4455.18] in him, -[4455.32 --> 4456.36] just slavish -[4456.36 --> 4457.18] obedience, -[4457.38 --> 4458.18] just a rote -[4458.18 --> 4459.18] morality, -[4459.48 --> 4459.94] just a -[4459.94 --> 4461.20] religiosity. -[4462.16 --> 4462.58] You're starting -[4462.58 --> 4463.72] to see where -[4463.72 --> 4464.24] this goes. -[4465.24 --> 4465.80] For the older -[4465.80 --> 4466.16] brother, -[4466.26 --> 4466.88] the relationship -[4466.88 --> 4467.64] to the father -[4467.64 --> 4468.86] isn't full of -[4468.86 --> 4469.24] life, -[4469.32 --> 4469.96] it's just -[4469.96 --> 4471.70] more death. -[4471.70 --> 4475.30] For the -[4475.30 --> 4475.86] older brother, -[4475.94 --> 4476.36] the father -[4476.36 --> 4477.28] may as well -[4477.28 --> 4477.84] be dead -[4477.84 --> 4479.12] because there's -[4479.12 --> 4479.94] no vitality, -[4480.44 --> 4480.96] there's no -[4480.96 --> 4482.20] life in their -[4482.20 --> 4482.72] relationship. -[4484.32 --> 4485.12] For most of -[4485.12 --> 4486.16] us here this -[4486.16 --> 4486.50] morning, -[4487.28 --> 4489.62] this is the -[4489.62 --> 4491.52] danger that -[4491.52 --> 4492.00] we face. -[4492.60 --> 4493.36] This is the -[4493.36 --> 4494.12] danger that the -[4494.12 --> 4494.66] parable is -[4494.66 --> 4495.34] warning us -[4495.34 --> 4496.04] about. -[4496.96 --> 4498.32] The Pharisees -[4498.32 --> 4499.66] Jesus is -[4499.66 --> 4500.50] talking to -[4500.50 --> 4501.28] are the -[4501.28 --> 4501.90] older brother. -[4502.82 --> 4503.28] And most -[4503.28 --> 4503.96] of us, -[4504.02 --> 4504.30] and I want -[4504.30 --> 4504.64] to assume -[4504.64 --> 4505.20] all of us, -[4505.26 --> 4505.98] but as I -[4505.98 --> 4506.34] look out, -[4506.46 --> 4507.36] most of us -[4507.36 --> 4507.90] here this -[4507.90 --> 4508.44] morning have -[4508.44 --> 4509.42] been Christian -[4509.42 --> 4510.56] for a long -[4510.56 --> 4511.44] time. -[4511.62 --> 4512.14] And if that's -[4512.14 --> 4512.44] true, -[4512.80 --> 4514.06] we are in -[4514.06 --> 4514.84] danger of -[4514.84 --> 4515.40] being or -[4515.40 --> 4516.08] becoming the -[4516.08 --> 4516.66] older brother. -[4517.66 --> 4518.18] Is your -[4518.18 --> 4519.08] relationship to -[4519.08 --> 4519.54] the father -[4519.54 --> 4520.24] more about -[4520.24 --> 4520.72] slavish -[4520.72 --> 4521.82] obedience than -[4521.82 --> 4522.46] it is about -[4522.46 --> 4523.62] vitality? -[4524.08 --> 4524.20] Now, -[4524.92 --> 4525.88] don't hear what -[4525.88 --> 4526.48] I'm not saying. -[4527.16 --> 4527.78] Obedience is -[4527.78 --> 4528.24] important. -[4530.30 --> 4530.94] But, -[4532.26 --> 4533.80] obedience is -[4533.80 --> 4534.52] a consequence -[4534.52 --> 4535.64] of God being -[4535.64 --> 4536.86] alive in you -[4536.86 --> 4537.78] and through -[4537.78 --> 4538.10] you. -[4539.00 --> 4539.32] For the -[4539.32 --> 4540.08] older brother, -[4540.40 --> 4540.98] he was -[4540.98 --> 4541.74] obedient because -[4541.74 --> 4542.66] he thought that -[4542.66 --> 4543.36] would make his -[4543.36 --> 4544.76] father give him -[4544.76 --> 4545.22] something. -[4546.94 --> 4547.80] Obedience for -[4547.80 --> 4548.60] the sake of -[4548.60 --> 4549.40] getting something -[4549.40 --> 4549.90] from the -[4549.90 --> 4550.32] father, -[4550.68 --> 4551.38] that's the -[4551.38 --> 4552.40] presumption of -[4552.40 --> 4553.12] religiosity. -[4554.06 --> 4555.20] If I do the -[4555.20 --> 4555.76] right thing, -[4555.92 --> 4556.66] God will bless -[4556.66 --> 4556.90] me. -[4556.90 --> 4558.06] If I obey, -[4558.28 --> 4559.10] God will hear -[4559.10 --> 4560.18] me and answer -[4560.18 --> 4560.74] my prayer. -[4562.12 --> 4562.26] So, -[4562.32 --> 4562.90] think about it. -[4563.48 --> 4564.08] Here are some -[4564.08 --> 4565.36] questions to -[4565.36 --> 4566.32] ask yourself -[4566.32 --> 4568.06] to see if you -[4568.06 --> 4569.16] approach your -[4569.16 --> 4569.80] religion, -[4570.36 --> 4571.22] your relationship -[4571.22 --> 4571.86] to God, -[4571.92 --> 4572.76] more like the -[4572.76 --> 4573.26] older brother. -[4574.22 --> 4574.78] Here's a series -[4574.78 --> 4575.24] of questions. -[4577.10 --> 4577.50] If, -[4578.50 --> 4579.84] whenever you -[4579.84 --> 4580.20] pray, -[4580.98 --> 4582.20] you have to -[4582.20 --> 4582.72] start with -[4582.72 --> 4583.48] confession, -[4583.48 --> 4583.54] confession, -[4584.32 --> 4586.38] you might be -[4586.38 --> 4586.84] in the danger -[4586.84 --> 4587.38] zone of the -[4587.38 --> 4587.84] older brother. -[4589.60 --> 4590.34] And why do I -[4590.34 --> 4590.74] say that? -[4593.00 --> 4594.02] Because maybe -[4594.02 --> 4596.08] what you believe -[4596.08 --> 4596.76] in your heart -[4596.76 --> 4598.04] is that God -[4598.04 --> 4598.94] won't listen to -[4598.94 --> 4599.72] you or he -[4599.72 --> 4600.44] won't hear you -[4600.44 --> 4601.12] unless you are -[4601.12 --> 4602.46] clean and holy. -[4603.34 --> 4604.46] Maybe you think -[4604.46 --> 4605.30] that you need to -[4605.30 --> 4605.92] clean up your -[4605.92 --> 4606.62] stuff, you need -[4606.62 --> 4607.50] to get it -[4607.50 --> 4608.36] together before -[4608.36 --> 4609.02] God will come -[4609.02 --> 4609.44] to you. -[4609.44 --> 4610.86] And what -[4610.86 --> 4611.30] that begins -[4611.30 --> 4611.98] to reveal -[4611.98 --> 4613.34] is that your -[4613.34 --> 4614.36] idea of -[4614.36 --> 4615.30] religion and -[4615.30 --> 4616.40] relationship to -[4616.40 --> 4617.22] God is -[4617.22 --> 4618.58] ultimately about -[4618.58 --> 4619.40] morality, -[4620.28 --> 4621.66] about what -[4621.66 --> 4622.20] you do, -[4622.28 --> 4622.76] and you must -[4622.76 --> 4623.36] do the right -[4623.36 --> 4623.94] things in order -[4623.94 --> 4624.50] for God to -[4624.50 --> 4625.58] come to you. -[4626.82 --> 4627.50] Here's another -[4627.50 --> 4628.70] question or -[4628.70 --> 4629.16] scenario. -[4629.56 --> 4631.22] If you get -[4631.22 --> 4631.88] angry, -[4633.28 --> 4633.76] and like -[4633.76 --> 4635.50] actually angry, -[4635.76 --> 4636.60] right, at the -[4636.60 --> 4637.50] non-Christian -[4637.50 --> 4638.54] people on your -[4638.54 --> 4639.22] job site, -[4639.44 --> 4639.92] or that you -[4639.92 --> 4640.60] work with, -[4640.78 --> 4641.46] because of the -[4641.46 --> 4642.06] language that -[4642.06 --> 4642.70] they use, -[4643.52 --> 4643.88] but you've -[4643.88 --> 4644.40] never actually -[4644.40 --> 4645.02] felt the need -[4645.02 --> 4645.52] to talk to -[4645.52 --> 4645.80] them about -[4645.80 --> 4646.42] the gospel of -[4646.42 --> 4646.72] Jesus, -[4647.60 --> 4648.58] you might be -[4648.58 --> 4649.08] in the older -[4649.08 --> 4649.66] brother danger -[4649.66 --> 4649.98] zone. -[4651.22 --> 4651.80] Think about it -[4651.80 --> 4652.36] again, right? -[4652.46 --> 4653.32] Outward moral -[4653.32 --> 4654.26] obedience has -[4654.26 --> 4654.92] become more -[4654.92 --> 4655.74] important than -[4655.74 --> 4657.28] grace to you. -[4660.36 --> 4661.26] Here's one more. -[4662.50 --> 4663.24] If you've ever -[4663.24 --> 4663.94] thought you -[4663.94 --> 4664.66] shouldn't have -[4664.66 --> 4665.88] to suffer or -[4665.88 --> 4667.08] get sick or -[4667.08 --> 4667.96] lose your job -[4667.96 --> 4668.98] because you've -[4668.98 --> 4669.88] always been a -[4669.88 --> 4670.50] good person, -[4671.70 --> 4672.90] you might be in -[4672.90 --> 4673.22] the older -[4673.22 --> 4673.86] brother danger -[4673.86 --> 4674.20] zone. -[4675.16 --> 4675.80] The idea here -[4675.80 --> 4676.26] being that -[4676.26 --> 4677.48] obedience to -[4677.48 --> 4678.20] God is for -[4678.20 --> 4678.72] the purpose -[4678.72 --> 4679.32] ultimately of -[4679.32 --> 4679.74] putting God -[4679.74 --> 4680.36] in your debt, -[4680.74 --> 4681.26] putting God -[4681.26 --> 4681.92] in your pocket -[4681.92 --> 4682.74] so that you -[4682.74 --> 4683.24] can pull him -[4683.24 --> 4683.70] out when you -[4683.70 --> 4684.18] need something -[4684.18 --> 4684.46] and say, -[4684.54 --> 4684.80] okay, God, -[4684.86 --> 4685.30] go fix this -[4685.30 --> 4685.60] problem. -[4686.60 --> 4687.10] If you've -[4687.10 --> 4687.56] ever thought -[4687.56 --> 4688.22] that way or -[4688.22 --> 4689.20] in your heart -[4689.20 --> 4689.72] of hearts -[4689.72 --> 4691.00] believed that, -[4691.68 --> 4692.16] you might be -[4692.16 --> 4692.60] in the danger -[4692.60 --> 4693.14] zone of the -[4693.14 --> 4693.60] older brother. -[4693.60 --> 4693.64] brother. -[4695.00 --> 4696.08] If you only -[4696.08 --> 4696.94] ever come to -[4696.94 --> 4697.48] church on -[4697.48 --> 4698.22] Sunday because -[4698.22 --> 4699.20] it's what we -[4699.20 --> 4701.00] do, right, -[4701.02 --> 4701.50] if you've never -[4701.50 --> 4702.12] known the love -[4702.12 --> 4702.64] of God in -[4702.64 --> 4703.32] worship or in -[4703.32 --> 4704.18] sacrament, if -[4704.18 --> 4704.54] you've never -[4704.54 --> 4705.32] marveled at the -[4705.32 --> 4706.40] amazing grace of -[4706.40 --> 4707.44] Jesus, if it's -[4707.44 --> 4708.88] only because it's -[4708.88 --> 4709.70] what's expected -[4709.70 --> 4710.84] of you, you -[4710.84 --> 4711.96] might be in the -[4711.96 --> 4712.66] older brother -[4712.66 --> 4713.88] danger zone. -[4714.78 --> 4715.62] Again, if you -[4715.62 --> 4716.36] get angry or -[4716.36 --> 4717.22] jealous when -[4717.22 --> 4717.82] others are -[4717.82 --> 4719.12] experiencing or -[4719.12 --> 4720.66] expressing vitality -[4720.66 --> 4721.72] in their relationship -[4721.72 --> 4722.30] to God, you -[4722.30 --> 4723.26] might be in the -[4723.26 --> 4723.80] older brother -[4723.80 --> 4724.84] danger zone. -[4725.28 --> 4726.20] If you're always -[4726.20 --> 4727.14] suspicious of -[4727.14 --> 4727.94] other people's -[4727.94 --> 4728.72] motives, if you -[4728.72 --> 4729.56] think that other -[4729.56 --> 4730.16] people are only -[4730.16 --> 4730.82] ever out for -[4730.82 --> 4731.72] themselves, you -[4731.72 --> 4732.36] might be in the -[4732.36 --> 4732.78] older brother -[4732.78 --> 4733.62] danger zone, -[4733.72 --> 4733.84] right? -[4733.92 --> 4734.58] People who have -[4734.58 --> 4736.04] genuinely experienced -[4736.04 --> 4737.08] the grace of God -[4737.08 --> 4739.00] can not but -[4739.00 --> 4740.16] offer grace to -[4740.16 --> 4743.06] others, but also -[4743.06 --> 4744.96] they can receive -[4744.96 --> 4746.42] it from others -[4746.42 --> 4747.46] as well. -[4749.34 --> 4749.88] We're thinking -[4749.88 --> 4750.66] about our -[4750.66 --> 4751.90] spiritual selves -[4751.90 --> 4752.38] together. -[4752.74 --> 4753.68] If you are in -[4753.68 --> 4754.34] the older brother -[4754.34 --> 4755.32] danger zone, that -[4755.32 --> 4756.20] means that God -[4756.20 --> 4757.66] isn't alive to -[4757.66 --> 4759.04] you, that his -[4759.04 --> 4760.00] word isn't living -[4760.00 --> 4761.28] and active in -[4761.28 --> 4762.16] you, and that -[4762.16 --> 4764.26] you are stuck in -[4764.26 --> 4766.08] spiritual deathliness. -[4767.02 --> 4767.76] Now, let me be -[4767.76 --> 4768.50] really clear. -[4769.56 --> 4771.38] I'm not suggesting -[4771.38 --> 4772.80] we all need to be -[4772.80 --> 4773.98] happy and clappy -[4773.98 --> 4774.70] and raising our -[4774.70 --> 4776.48] hands and emotionally -[4776.48 --> 4777.78] expressive in our -[4777.78 --> 4778.54] worship or in -[4778.54 --> 4779.54] relationship to God. -[4779.54 --> 4779.60] God. -[4781.48 --> 4782.80] But he does need to -[4782.80 --> 4783.44] be real. -[4784.74 --> 4785.54] He does need to be -[4785.54 --> 4787.98] alive in you and -[4787.98 --> 4789.14] to you and through -[4789.14 --> 4789.52] you. -[4790.00 --> 4792.24] If he's not, we end -[4792.24 --> 4793.10] up in the presumption -[4793.10 --> 4794.66] of religiosity. -[4795.52 --> 4795.62] Right? -[4795.68 --> 4796.76] Your faith and your -[4796.76 --> 4797.86] experience of God -[4797.86 --> 4799.68] become transactional. -[4800.48 --> 4800.94] Right? -[4800.98 --> 4801.94] What can I get out -[4801.94 --> 4802.22] of it? -[4802.22 --> 4802.66] Right? -[4803.96 --> 4805.22] If your faith is -[4805.22 --> 4807.12] manipulative of God -[4807.12 --> 4809.50] and of others, then, -[4809.64 --> 4810.12] and here's where -[4810.12 --> 4811.90] we'll come back, it's -[4811.90 --> 4813.80] no wonder young -[4813.80 --> 4815.44] people and others -[4815.44 --> 4816.76] don't want anything -[4816.76 --> 4817.42] to do with that. -[4818.74 --> 4819.52] Because I don't -[4819.52 --> 4819.84] either. -[4821.46 --> 4821.58] Right? -[4821.60 --> 4822.70] If we don't model -[4822.70 --> 4823.52] something with -[4823.52 --> 4825.32] vitality and meaning, -[4825.58 --> 4826.58] if we don't live as -[4826.58 --> 4827.38] if this is really -[4827.38 --> 4828.68] true and really -[4828.68 --> 4829.98] real, right, if we -[4829.98 --> 4830.54] don't live with -[4830.54 --> 4831.48] something deep and -[4831.48 --> 4832.68] full of substance and -[4832.68 --> 4833.86] connection to the -[4833.86 --> 4835.36] transcendence, of -[4835.36 --> 4836.12] course that's not -[4836.12 --> 4837.80] caught by those down -[4837.80 --> 4838.84] the line from us. -[4840.26 --> 4840.40] Right? -[4840.42 --> 4841.40] We might actually be -[4841.40 --> 4842.10] Christian, right? -[4842.14 --> 4842.90] That is, we might be -[4842.90 --> 4843.78] marked among the -[4843.78 --> 4845.18] elect, but you don't -[4845.18 --> 4845.98] live like it. -[4846.68 --> 4847.44] You don't know the -[4847.44 --> 4848.68] joy of being a child -[4848.68 --> 4849.74] of the father. -[4853.46 --> 4855.30] And that's the -[4855.30 --> 4856.16] second thing that the -[4856.16 --> 4857.86] older brother has -[4857.86 --> 4859.18] going on or doesn't -[4859.18 --> 4860.44] have going on. -[4861.38 --> 4862.58] The first son wants -[4862.58 --> 4863.56] his father dead. -[4863.78 --> 4864.80] For the second, the -[4864.80 --> 4865.74] father's always been -[4865.74 --> 4866.04] dead. -[4866.16 --> 4867.36] The first son remembers -[4867.36 --> 4868.88] the father's mercy. -[4869.08 --> 4870.12] For the second, he's -[4870.12 --> 4871.48] forgotten his own -[4871.48 --> 4872.48] identity. -[4873.98 --> 4874.88] And maybe this is part -[4874.88 --> 4876.18] of the root, as I -[4876.18 --> 4877.10] talked earlier, of -[4877.10 --> 4879.04] deconstruction in our -[4879.04 --> 4879.28] age. -[4880.76 --> 4882.38] Notice what the -[4882.38 --> 4884.06] older brother says to -[4884.06 --> 4884.46] the father. -[4885.68 --> 4887.12] When this son of -[4887.12 --> 4889.26] yours comes home, you -[4889.26 --> 4890.04] kill the fattened -[4890.04 --> 4890.60] calf for him. -[4891.96 --> 4892.48] Notice first, -[4892.58 --> 4893.58] this son of yours. -[4893.64 --> 4894.28] Like, he can't even -[4894.28 --> 4895.34] say brother. -[4895.48 --> 4896.54] He can't even address -[4896.54 --> 4897.82] him as a family -[4897.82 --> 4898.42] member. -[4898.50 --> 4899.10] He won't even say -[4899.10 --> 4900.18] that we are related. -[4900.32 --> 4901.64] That's the heart of -[4901.64 --> 4902.34] the older brother. -[4902.48 --> 4904.16] Refusing to take joy in -[4904.16 --> 4905.44] the salvation of -[4905.44 --> 4905.72] others. -[4905.84 --> 4907.04] Instead, he makes it -[4907.04 --> 4907.60] about himself. -[4908.88 --> 4910.24] But notice then what -[4910.24 --> 4911.72] the father says. -[4911.86 --> 4913.12] He says, my son. -[4915.34 --> 4916.28] My son. -[4917.28 --> 4919.28] You are my son. -[4919.28 --> 4920.54] This is your brother. -[4920.54 --> 4922.32] I am your father. -[4922.52 --> 4923.76] That can't be changed. -[4924.24 --> 4925.16] I am your father. -[4925.26 --> 4926.12] Not because you have -[4926.12 --> 4927.52] earned it, but because I -[4927.52 --> 4928.28] am your father. -[4928.58 --> 4929.54] And I am your father. -[4929.64 --> 4930.40] And I love you. -[4930.48 --> 4931.78] And I will always love -[4931.78 --> 4931.92] you. -[4932.18 --> 4933.64] My son, he says, you are -[4933.64 --> 4935.26] always with me. -[4935.38 --> 4936.98] And everything I have -[4936.98 --> 4937.62] is yours. -[4938.74 --> 4939.64] Get that, right? -[4939.68 --> 4940.80] Everything I have is -[4940.80 --> 4940.98] yours. -[4941.04 --> 4942.04] That's not just a figure -[4942.04 --> 4943.46] of speech in this story. -[4943.96 --> 4944.40] Right? -[4944.40 --> 4945.42] It's actually true. -[4946.12 --> 4947.08] Because the father has -[4947.08 --> 4948.58] already divided out his -[4948.58 --> 4950.12] inheritance to the -[4950.12 --> 4950.72] younger brother. -[4950.90 --> 4951.62] And so literally, -[4951.80 --> 4954.20] everything left is the -[4954.20 --> 4955.08] older brother's. -[4956.18 --> 4956.38] Right? -[4956.44 --> 4957.84] All I have is yours, -[4958.02 --> 4958.88] says the father. -[4959.70 --> 4960.86] The danger zone of the -[4960.86 --> 4961.76] older brother is to -[4961.76 --> 4964.14] forget who you are. -[4965.52 --> 4966.72] If your religion is only -[4966.72 --> 4967.70] about morality, not -[4967.70 --> 4968.76] relationship to God, it -[4968.76 --> 4970.34] is easy to forget that -[4970.34 --> 4972.14] you are a lavishly loved -[4972.14 --> 4973.88] child of the father. -[4975.06 --> 4976.06] Let me put it this way. -[4976.70 --> 4978.88] The father loves us with -[4978.88 --> 4981.04] a prodigious love. -[4981.66 --> 4981.74] Right? -[4981.76 --> 4982.24] This is about a -[4982.24 --> 4983.88] prodigal God who runs -[4983.88 --> 4985.86] out to the lost son when -[4985.86 --> 4987.14] he returns home and who -[4987.14 --> 4988.72] goes out to the lost son -[4988.72 --> 4990.00] who's stuck in the field. -[4991.28 --> 4991.38] Right? -[4991.44 --> 4992.94] Prodigal means lavish and -[4992.94 --> 4994.02] unyielding and over the -[4994.02 --> 4994.32] top. -[4994.48 --> 4996.12] That's the God revealed in -[4996.12 --> 4996.68] this story. -[4996.86 --> 4998.32] And he is calling you. -[4998.32 --> 5000.50] He is calling you by name -[5000.50 --> 5002.86] to experience him maybe -[5002.86 --> 5003.76] for the first time. -[5004.40 --> 5005.96] The older brother missed -[5005.96 --> 5006.20] it. -[5007.34 --> 5008.14] And in fact, the -[5008.14 --> 5008.96] compassion that the -[5008.96 --> 5010.28] father shows makes the -[5010.28 --> 5011.58] older brother even more -[5011.58 --> 5012.06] angry. -[5012.66 --> 5012.72] Right? -[5012.76 --> 5014.44] It drives him and divides -[5014.44 --> 5015.90] him from his father and -[5015.90 --> 5016.38] his brother. -[5016.78 --> 5018.40] The Pharisees missed it -[5018.40 --> 5020.02] when they muttered about -[5020.02 --> 5020.46] Jesus. -[5021.74 --> 5023.04] Don't you miss it too? -[5026.04 --> 5027.44] Again, let me be clear. -[5027.44 --> 5030.62] Maybe you're deconstructing -[5030.62 --> 5031.38] right now. -[5031.38 --> 5032.36] Or maybe someone in your -[5032.36 --> 5033.72] life is deconstructing -[5033.72 --> 5034.44] right now. -[5035.76 --> 5036.96] I'm not afraid of your -[5036.96 --> 5037.42] questions. -[5038.66 --> 5040.52] We can't be afraid of -[5040.52 --> 5041.94] hard questions. -[5042.66 --> 5042.76] Right? -[5042.78 --> 5043.78] If you've got questions, -[5043.86 --> 5044.48] let's ask them. -[5044.54 --> 5045.68] Let's wrestle together. -[5045.98 --> 5047.26] Let's dig deep into the -[5047.26 --> 5048.42] truth of who we are and -[5048.42 --> 5049.82] who God says he is. -[5049.96 --> 5050.90] And instead of -[5050.90 --> 5052.40] deconstructing out of the -[5052.40 --> 5053.32] faith, maybe what we can -[5053.32 --> 5054.88] do is differentiate within -[5054.88 --> 5055.62] the faith so that it -[5055.62 --> 5057.06] becomes your own and it -[5057.06 --> 5057.86] means more to you. -[5057.94 --> 5059.02] Let's make our shared -[5059.02 --> 5061.08] faith your faith. -[5062.84 --> 5064.74] And then finally, and -[5064.74 --> 5066.90] here's the last thing to -[5066.90 --> 5068.76] see from this story. -[5069.20 --> 5070.50] If your Bibles are open, -[5071.98 --> 5073.66] zoom out from our parable -[5073.66 --> 5074.74] to the whole of chapter -[5074.74 --> 5075.78] 15. -[5076.16 --> 5076.30] Right? -[5076.34 --> 5077.08] I said at the beginning -[5077.08 --> 5078.36] that Jesus tells three -[5078.36 --> 5080.28] stories in this section. -[5080.44 --> 5082.38] The first story is the -[5082.38 --> 5084.68] parable of the lost sheep. -[5084.68 --> 5086.86] You have a sheep who is -[5086.86 --> 5088.48] lost and the shepherd goes -[5088.48 --> 5089.54] out to search for that -[5089.54 --> 5090.72] one lost sheep and he -[5090.72 --> 5092.76] leaves behind the 99 in -[5092.76 --> 5093.78] order to go find the one. -[5094.24 --> 5095.44] The second is about a -[5095.44 --> 5097.24] woman who loses a coin and -[5097.24 --> 5098.38] she's lost the coin so she -[5098.38 --> 5100.12] stops everything she's -[5100.12 --> 5101.34] doing and she searches the -[5101.34 --> 5103.04] entire house until she -[5103.04 --> 5104.36] finds that coin. -[5105.08 --> 5106.34] The third story is our -[5106.34 --> 5107.82] story, the father and his -[5107.82 --> 5108.30] two sons. -[5108.66 --> 5110.00] And as we quickly recap -[5110.00 --> 5110.98] those stories, what's the -[5110.98 --> 5111.90] difference between story -[5111.90 --> 5113.34] one and two and story -[5113.34 --> 5113.64] three? -[5113.64 --> 5115.28] Did you see it? -[5116.88 --> 5117.06] Right? -[5117.08 --> 5118.10] In the first two stories, -[5118.48 --> 5120.48] someone goes out to search. -[5121.16 --> 5122.42] Someone goes out to find. -[5122.48 --> 5123.38] The shepherd goes to find -[5123.38 --> 5123.90] the lost sheep. -[5123.98 --> 5124.78] The woman stops everything -[5124.78 --> 5126.18] she does until she finds -[5126.18 --> 5127.28] that coin she lost. -[5127.34 --> 5128.40] They go to search what was -[5128.40 --> 5128.96] for lost. -[5129.50 --> 5130.24] What was lost. -[5130.72 --> 5132.34] The third story, no one -[5132.34 --> 5132.82] goes out. -[5134.66 --> 5135.50] Why is that? -[5136.58 --> 5137.64] That makes me wonder. -[5137.64 --> 5144.98] Now, especially after two -[5144.98 --> 5147.86] stories of searching to find, -[5148.56 --> 5150.36] the Pharisees listening to -[5150.36 --> 5152.44] this story would know -[5152.44 --> 5154.22] something about the culture -[5154.22 --> 5155.54] of the day that we would -[5155.54 --> 5156.84] easily miss. -[5156.92 --> 5158.04] Something that 2,000 years -[5158.04 --> 5160.28] later we don't understand. -[5160.42 --> 5161.38] Because you see, in that -[5161.38 --> 5162.94] culture there would be an -[5162.94 --> 5165.22] expectation, a familial -[5165.22 --> 5166.18] expectation. -[5166.18 --> 5167.68] The Pharisees listening would -[5167.68 --> 5169.54] know that it is actually the -[5169.54 --> 5172.10] older brother's job to go out -[5172.10 --> 5173.40] and to find his younger -[5173.40 --> 5174.74] brother wherever he may be -[5174.74 --> 5175.90] and bring him back to the -[5175.90 --> 5176.18] father. -[5177.18 --> 5178.82] The older brother should have -[5178.82 --> 5180.94] gone out searching to find -[5180.94 --> 5182.18] his brother and to reconcile -[5182.18 --> 5183.40] him to the father. -[5183.48 --> 5184.86] And this goes all the way back -[5184.86 --> 5185.98] to Cain and Abel. -[5186.82 --> 5187.00] Right? -[5187.00 --> 5188.62] When God asks Cain, another -[5188.62 --> 5190.20] older brother in the Bible, -[5190.30 --> 5191.42] what has happened to Abel, -[5191.80 --> 5193.44] Cain says, am I my brother's -[5193.44 --> 5193.66] keeper? -[5194.64 --> 5195.72] And the inference in that -[5195.72 --> 5196.52] story is yes. -[5197.04 --> 5197.72] Yes, you are. -[5198.12 --> 5199.02] You are supposed to look -[5199.02 --> 5199.52] after him. -[5199.78 --> 5201.04] The older brother should have -[5201.04 --> 5202.20] gone out to find the younger -[5202.20 --> 5202.48] brother. -[5202.80 --> 5203.98] And the people listening to -[5203.98 --> 5205.10] this story would have -[5205.10 --> 5206.50] expected that to happen. -[5207.40 --> 5208.08] But he doesn't. -[5210.28 --> 5211.58] You see, I believe that Jesus -[5211.58 --> 5213.74] is teaching us something about -[5213.74 --> 5215.58] himself in this moment. -[5215.58 --> 5217.56] Because the older brother -[5217.56 --> 5218.34] doesn't go out. -[5218.68 --> 5220.36] Jesus in the story is -[5220.36 --> 5222.46] creating a longing for a -[5222.46 --> 5223.44] brother who does. -[5224.54 --> 5224.66] Right? -[5224.70 --> 5225.68] You see it now, right? -[5225.74 --> 5227.88] Jesus is the true and better -[5227.88 --> 5230.14] older brother who reconciles -[5230.14 --> 5231.90] us to the father who goes out -[5231.90 --> 5233.92] to find those who are lost. -[5234.74 --> 5235.76] And we can actually take this -[5235.76 --> 5237.08] parable even further in this -[5237.08 --> 5237.34] regard. -[5237.68 --> 5239.58] When the brother comes home, -[5240.18 --> 5241.78] right, and they celebrate, -[5241.90 --> 5243.28] they clothe him, the father -[5243.28 --> 5244.62] says to the older brother, -[5244.82 --> 5245.56] right, all I know is -[5245.56 --> 5246.56] what I have is yours. -[5247.26 --> 5248.20] That means everything that -[5248.20 --> 5250.14] belongs to him is actually -[5250.14 --> 5251.10] the older brother's. -[5251.88 --> 5252.86] And when the younger brother -[5252.86 --> 5253.90] comes home, what does the -[5253.90 --> 5254.38] father do? -[5255.32 --> 5257.46] He clothes him in a robe and -[5257.46 --> 5258.98] gives him a ring. -[5259.32 --> 5260.58] If everything belongs to the -[5260.58 --> 5262.32] older brother, who is the -[5262.32 --> 5263.34] father clothing the younger -[5263.34 --> 5264.36] brothers in? -[5266.06 --> 5267.08] The older brother. -[5267.64 --> 5267.82] Right? -[5267.84 --> 5268.64] The brother who should have -[5268.64 --> 5269.08] gone out. -[5269.30 --> 5269.86] And so what are we learning? -[5269.96 --> 5271.86] The true and better older -[5271.86 --> 5275.48] brother clothes us in his -[5275.48 --> 5276.36] righteousness. -[5277.30 --> 5277.40] Right? -[5277.44 --> 5279.28] The father clothes us in -[5279.28 --> 5280.50] Jesus' righteousness. -[5280.64 --> 5282.12] The father covers you over -[5282.12 --> 5283.34] with his obedience. -[5283.72 --> 5284.88] And with the ring of his -[5284.88 --> 5287.26] sonship, he restores you as a -[5287.26 --> 5289.38] lavishly loved son or daughter. -[5289.54 --> 5290.90] Jesus, the true and better -[5290.90 --> 5292.70] older brother, gives up his -[5292.70 --> 5295.00] life so that you may have it. -[5295.08 --> 5297.20] He empties himself so that you -[5297.20 --> 5298.26] may be filled up. -[5298.26 --> 5301.32] He dies so that you may live. -[5302.86 --> 5304.66] Jesus lives the life I should -[5304.66 --> 5306.46] have lived and he clothes me -[5306.46 --> 5307.86] with his righteousness. -[5308.04 --> 5309.42] And Jesus dies the death that -[5309.42 --> 5311.28] that I deserve because of sin. -[5311.72 --> 5312.62] That's the gospel. -[5313.06 --> 5314.56] That's the parable of the two -[5314.56 --> 5316.42] lost sons and the prodigal God. -[5316.78 --> 5318.64] That's real Christianity. -[5319.90 --> 5322.72] That's gospel life now lived for -[5322.72 --> 5322.90] me. -[5323.06 --> 5325.34] When I was dead, he made me -[5325.34 --> 5325.78] alive. -[5325.86 --> 5327.26] When I treated the father as -[5327.26 --> 5328.96] though he was dead to me, he -[5328.96 --> 5330.48] drew me to himself. -[5330.70 --> 5331.88] When I rejected, when I -[5331.88 --> 5333.56] forgot, when I ignored my -[5333.56 --> 5335.88] identity in him, he came to -[5335.88 --> 5336.96] remind me. -[5337.28 --> 5339.46] He came to find me. -[5339.80 --> 5344.46] And so you see, that's why I -[5344.46 --> 5345.52] live. -[5345.64 --> 5348.08] That's why you can live now. -[5348.18 --> 5349.66] That's why we obey. -[5349.96 --> 5351.24] That's why we trust. -[5351.36 --> 5352.66] That's why we can have joy, -[5352.80 --> 5353.92] whatever the circumstances. -[5354.34 --> 5355.46] That's why we don't have to -[5355.46 --> 5355.90] worry. -[5355.90 --> 5357.66] As Jesus says, that's why I -[5357.66 --> 5360.38] can have true life now. -[5360.50 --> 5362.84] Because of Jesus, the true and -[5362.84 --> 5365.92] better older brother, you can -[5365.92 --> 5366.98] live. -[5368.48 --> 5371.72] The Christian life, because of -[5371.72 --> 5373.54] Jesus as the true and better -[5373.54 --> 5375.38] older brother, no longer looks -[5375.38 --> 5379.08] like anger, but joy at the -[5379.08 --> 5380.54] salvation of others. -[5380.84 --> 5382.26] The Christian life, because of -[5382.26 --> 5383.26] Jesus, the true and better -[5383.26 --> 5385.10] older brother, isn't mired in -[5385.10 --> 5386.20] guilt and shame. -[5386.28 --> 5388.26] No matter how great your guilt -[5388.26 --> 5390.90] is, no matter how big and real -[5390.90 --> 5393.52] your shame is, you are set free -[5393.52 --> 5396.64] to be beautiful in the image of -[5396.64 --> 5398.14] Jesus Christ, the Son, and to -[5398.14 --> 5400.74] reflect the glory of God in you -[5400.74 --> 5401.76] and through you. -[5401.90 --> 5403.54] The Christian life isn't about -[5403.54 --> 5405.44] rote or empty ritual. -[5405.66 --> 5406.96] It isn't about the presumption of -[5406.96 --> 5409.32] religiosity, but about meaningfully -[5409.32 --> 5411.46] encountering a living God who -[5411.46 --> 5414.00] breathes new life into every -[5414.00 --> 5416.88] moment of every day for you. -[5418.44 --> 5420.68] The Christian life will have -[5420.68 --> 5422.76] trials and tribulations, will have -[5422.76 --> 5424.44] challenges and contests, but -[5424.44 --> 5427.50] because of who Jesus is, you have -[5427.50 --> 5429.06] already overcome. -[5430.12 --> 5431.68] Jesus doesn't promise to take away -[5431.68 --> 5433.58] the trial, but he does promise to -[5433.58 --> 5434.76] carry you through. -[5434.76 --> 5438.20] The Father is drawing you to -[5438.20 --> 5440.42] himself today with a prodigious -[5440.42 --> 5443.64] grace, with a lavish love, with a -[5443.64 --> 5445.86] prodigal compassion, and the true -[5445.86 --> 5448.68] and better older brother finds you. -[5450.32 --> 5452.88] And together then, Father, Son, and -[5452.88 --> 5454.94] Holy Spirit, you are being -[5454.94 --> 5457.68] transformed into the image of his -[5457.68 --> 5460.86] Son from one degree of glory to -[5460.86 --> 5461.18] another. -[5461.18 --> 5464.70] not for slavish obedience, but for -[5464.70 --> 5466.62] joyful gratitude. -[5467.36 --> 5470.04] This is real life. -[5470.32 --> 5472.36] This is real living. -[5472.62 --> 5476.34] And I pray that today it's made real -[5476.34 --> 5477.32] for you. -[5477.84 --> 5478.06] Amen? -[5478.96 --> 5480.00] Let's pray together. -[5484.84 --> 5489.80] Lord our God, be real to us. -[5489.80 --> 5494.84] Be real to us now as we have heard -[5494.84 --> 5497.74] you revealed in your word. -[5497.88 --> 5500.92] May it now also be made true in a -[5500.92 --> 5503.26] way that we can taste and see as we -[5503.26 --> 5504.24] come to the table. -[5505.52 --> 5508.26] Be made real to us as we meet you -[5508.26 --> 5511.36] here in the bread and in the wine. -[5512.70 --> 5515.16] Be real to us as we celebrate your -[5515.16 --> 5516.74] feast together. -[5517.20 --> 5519.26] In Jesus' name, amen. -[5519.80 --> 5520.42] Amen. -[5525.48 --> 5528.08] We're going to come to the table of our -[5528.08 --> 5529.60] good God together. -[5530.50 --> 5534.10] And this table, even in this sort of -[5534.10 --> 5539.82] simplified and ritualistic form, is the -[5539.82 --> 5543.44] celebration of the Son returned to the -[5543.44 --> 5543.74] Father. -[5544.20 --> 5545.84] This is the celebration of the -[5545.84 --> 5548.36] kingdom of heaven for all who believe. -[5548.36 --> 5554.42] And so we come to this table as sons and daughters called by God to meet him here. -[5554.58 --> 5558.12] As we come to the table, we will work through a bit of a liturgy together. -[5558.48 --> 5562.28] I invite you to speak the words that are yours on the screen overhead. -[5563.44 --> 5564.62] Lift up your hearts. -[5567.58 --> 5570.32] Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. -[5574.42 --> 5575.38] Let's pray together. -[5575.38 --> 5580.38] With joy, we praise you, gracious God. -[5581.66 --> 5583.30] For you have created heaven and earth. -[5583.42 --> 5587.76] You have made us in your image and kept covenant with us even when we fell into sin. -[5588.54 --> 5593.32] We give you thanks for Jesus Christ, who, by his life, death, and resurrection, -[5593.82 --> 5596.38] opened to us the way of life everlasting. -[5597.90 --> 5598.18] Amen. -[5598.18 --> 5608.82] Jesus, before he suffered, gave us this memorial of his sacrifice until he comes again. -[5609.90 --> 5613.82] The Lord Jesus, on the night that he was betrayed, took bread. -[5614.44 --> 5617.00] And when he had given thanks, he broke it and he said, -[5617.00 --> 5620.26] This is my body, which is for you. -[5621.10 --> 5623.72] Do this in remembrance of me. -[5625.28 --> 5629.56] Now, in the same way, he took the cup after supper and said, -[5630.00 --> 5632.88] This cup is the new covenant in my blood. -[5633.64 --> 5636.64] Do this in remembrance of me. -[5636.64 --> 5642.06] For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, -[5642.20 --> 5646.44] you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes again. -[5647.74 --> 5651.20] This is the mystery of our faith. -[5651.20 --> 5664.08] Glory to you, Lord Jesus. -[5665.56 --> 5670.72] Church family, the Lord has prepared his table for all who love him, -[5670.86 --> 5673.76] for all who trust in him alone for their salvation. -[5674.70 --> 5679.22] And so, come to this table, you who have much faith, -[5679.22 --> 5681.14] and you who would like to have more. -[5681.92 --> 5684.32] You who have been to this sacrament often, -[5684.52 --> 5686.88] and you who have not been for a long time. -[5687.24 --> 5691.00] You who have tried to follow Jesus, and you who have failed. -[5691.68 --> 5695.96] Come to this table because Jesus is raised. -[5696.32 --> 5699.60] Come if you are here or if you are at home and online. -[5700.00 --> 5704.82] Come because it is Christ who invites us to meet him here. -[5705.66 --> 5710.72] These are the gifts of God for the people of God. -[5712.16 --> 5713.92] As we come to the table together, -[5714.52 --> 5717.84] we're going to be ushered up to the front. -[5717.96 --> 5719.56] We will gather in a circle here, -[5719.64 --> 5722.12] and we'll move line by line through the church. -[5722.92 --> 5726.18] An usher will encourage you or invite you to come to the front. -[5726.18 --> 5730.56] As you come up, we will pass trays of bread around the circle. -[5730.56 --> 5732.80] As you pass that tray, I invite you to say, -[5732.94 --> 5734.58] the body of Christ given for you. -[5734.78 --> 5737.88] We will take the bread, and then we will pass the trays of juice. -[5738.70 --> 5740.62] As you pass the tray, I invite you to say, -[5740.70 --> 5743.40] the blood of Christ shed for you. -[5743.40 --> 5749.98] And then we will return the cup to the table here and back to your seat, -[5750.08 --> 5751.84] and then the next row will come through. -[5751.90 --> 5753.14] We will move through in that way. -[5753.48 --> 5756.72] I'd like to invite the worship leaders and the elders who are serving -[5756.72 --> 5758.22] to come up for the first table -[5758.22 --> 5762.40] so that they might then facilitate table for the rest of us. -[5762.40 --> 5767.82] If you are unable to come up to the front, -[5767.90 --> 5769.24] but would still like to participate, -[5769.48 --> 5771.36] please indicate that to one of the ushers, -[5771.74 --> 5773.96] and we have particular trays here. -[5774.12 --> 5776.04] They will serve you in your seats. -[5788.60 --> 5791.96] Christ, Lord, the body of Christ. -[5792.40 --> 5805.96] Christ, Lord, the body of Christ. -[5805.96 --> 5806.26] Amen. -[5806.26 --> 5806.30] Amen. -[5822.40 --> 5826.50] Amen. -[5840.66 --> 5844.70] Amen. -[5849.42 --> 5851.76] Amen. -[5851.76 --> 5881.74] Thank you. -[5881.76 --> 5911.74] Thank you. -[5911.76 --> 5913.76] Thank you. -[5913.76 --> 5917.76] Drink and believe. -[5941.76 --> 5943.76] Thank you. -[5943.76 --> 5945.76] Thank you. -[5945.76 --> 5947.76] Thank you. -[5947.76 --> 5949.76] Thank you. -[5949.76 --> 5951.76] Thank you. -[5951.76 --> 5953.76] Thank you. -[5953.76 --> 5955.76] Thank you. -[5955.76 --> 5957.76] Thank you. -[5957.76 --> 5959.76] Thank you. -[5959.76 --> 5961.76] Thank you. -[5961.76 --> 5963.76] Thank you. -[5963.76 --> 5965.76] Thank you. -[5965.76 --> 5967.76] Thank you. -[5967.76 --> 5969.76] Thank you. -[5969.76 --> 5971.76] Thank you. -[5971.76 --> 5973.76] Thank you. -[5973.76 --> 5975.76] Thank you. -[5975.76 --> 5977.76] Thank you. -[5977.76 --> 5979.76] Thank you. -[5979.76 --> 5981.76] Thank you. -[5981.76 --> 5983.76] Thank you. -[5983.76 --> 5985.76] Thank you. -[5985.76 --> 5987.76] Thank you. -[5987.76 --> 5989.76] Thank you. -[5989.76 --> 5998.64] That all who come in faith find forgiveness at the cross. -[5998.64 --> 6005.08] So we share in this bread of life. -[6005.46 --> 6010.64] And we drink of his sacrifice. -[6011.48 --> 6018.42] As a sign of our bonds of peace. -[6018.42 --> 6022.50] Around the table of the king. -[6033.72 --> 6039.60] The body of our Savior Jesus Christ. -[6039.90 --> 6041.92] Torn for you. -[6043.92 --> 6046.34] He then remembered. -[6046.34 --> 6052.28] The wounds that heal the death that brings us life. -[6052.68 --> 6057.54] Pay the price to make us one. -[6058.94 --> 6065.14] So we share in this bread of life. -[6065.14 --> 6071.42] And we drink of his sacrifice. -[6071.42 --> 6078.76] As a sign of our bonds of love. -[6078.76 --> 6083.30] Around the table of the king. -[6083.30 --> 6102.82] The blood that cleanses every stain of sin shed for you. -[6102.82 --> 6106.82] Drink and remember. -[6106.82 --> 6113.76] He drained us cup that all may enter it. -[6113.76 --> 6119.70] To receive the life of God. -[6119.70 --> 6126.90] So we share in this bread of life. -[6126.90 --> 6133.26] And we drink of his sacrifice. -[6133.26 --> 6140.26] As a sign of our bonds of faith. -[6140.26 --> 6145.26] Around the table of the king. -[6145.26 --> 6164.70] And so with thankfulness and faith we rise to respond. -[6164.70 --> 6166.70] And to remember. -[6166.70 --> 6169.70] And to remember. -[6169.70 --> 6176.26] Our call to follow in the steps of Christ. -[6176.26 --> 6182.52] As his body here on earth. -[6182.52 --> 6188.52] As we share in his suffering. -[6188.52 --> 6190.52] We proclaim. -[6190.52 --> 6194.52] Christ will come again. -[6194.52 --> 6197.52] And we'll join. -[6197.52 --> 6202.52] In the feast of death. -[6202.52 --> 6203.52] In the feast of death. -[6203.52 --> 6205.52] And we'll join in that prayer. -[6205.52 --> 6207.52] To be with the disciples and the asiatic creation. -[6207.52 --> 6211.62] To be with us and daily God. -[6212.52 --> 6213.94] I ask the thad. -[6214.44 --> 6218.46] And we'll beat you. -[6218.52 --> 6225.50] To be with us and daily God. -[6225.52 --> 6232.50] Psalm 12 in the main 500. -[6232.50 --> 6254.80] My Lord, what love is this -[6254.80 --> 6261.30] That cares so dearly -[6261.30 --> 6268.42] That all the guilty are -[6268.42 --> 6274.38] May go free -[6274.38 --> 6280.56] Of his love, oh what sacrifice -[6280.56 --> 6287.18] The Son of God, give it for me -[6287.18 --> 6290.98] My death he claims -[6290.98 --> 6294.64] And my death he dies -[6294.64 --> 6300.38] That I might live -[6300.38 --> 6307.84] That I might live -[6307.84 --> 6317.38] And so they watch tonight -[6317.38 --> 6323.18] Despised, rejected -[6323.18 --> 6330.38] But all the mighty share -[6330.38 --> 6336.50] Vote for me -[6336.50 --> 6343.62] Amazing love, oh what sacrifice -[6343.62 --> 6349.50] The Son of God, give it for me -[6349.50 --> 6353.30] My death he claims -[6353.30 --> 6357.30] And my death he dies -[6357.30 --> 6363.30] That I might live -[6363.30 --> 6368.62] That I might live -[6368.62 --> 6375.74] And now -[6375.74 --> 6381.46] This love of Christ -[6381.46 --> 6383.20] Shall blow -[6383.20 --> 6387.74] Like rivers -[6387.74 --> 6394.74] Come wash your guilt away -[6394.74 --> 6400.74] Live again -[6400.74 --> 6406.86] Amazing love, oh what sacrifice -[6406.86 --> 6408.74] Provide -[6408.74 --> 6413.98] The Son of God, give it for me -[6413.98 --> 6417.78] My death he claims -[6417.78 --> 6418.66] My death he claims -[6418.66 --> 6421.78] And my death he dies -[6421.78 --> 6427.78] That I might live -[6427.78 --> 6435.10] That I might live -[6435.10 --> 6437.90] Amazing love -[6437.90 --> 6438.90] Amazing love -[6438.90 --> 6440.90] guitar solo -[6440.90 --> 6442.58] guitar solo -[6442.58 --> 6443.20] чит Ranked -[6443.20 --> 6445.58] guitar solo -[6445.58 --> 6447.28] guitar solo -[6447.28 --> 6448.78] violins -[6448.78 --> 6449.58] policies -[6449.58 --> 6449.84] No -[6449.84 --> 6450.44] olds -[6450.44 --> 6454.28] meas -[6454.28 --> 6454.36] Possibly -[6454.36 --> 6455.52] Next -[6455.52 --> 6456.56] violin -[6456.56 --> 6458.66] Gill -[6458.66 --> 6459.82] 録音 -[6459.82 --> 6460.98] 声 -[6460.98 --> 6461.66] liquid -[6461.66 --> 6462.38] isk -[6462.38 --> 6492.36] piano plays softly -[6492.38 --> 6502.74] How beautiful the hands that serve -[6502.74 --> 6505.86] The wine and the bread -[6505.86 --> 6509.18] And the sons of the earth -[6509.18 --> 6516.52] How beautiful the feet that walk -[6516.52 --> 6519.74] The long dusting roads -[6519.74 --> 6523.16] And the hills to the cross -[6523.16 --> 6525.98] How beautiful -[6525.98 --> 6532.74] How beautiful -[6532.74 --> 6539.74] How beautiful -[6539.74 --> 6546.16] Is the body of Christ -[6546.16 --> 6553.84] How beautiful -[6553.84 --> 6557.74] The heart that led -[6557.74 --> 6561.16] That took all my sin -[6561.16 --> 6564.16] And bore it instead -[6564.16 --> 6567.16] How beautiful -[6567.16 --> 6570.74] How beautiful -[6570.74 --> 6575.14] Is it by hand? -[6575.16 --> 6576.16] The sorry -[6576.16 --> 6577.74] xture -[6577.74 --> 6579.00] I chose to forgive -[6579.00 --> 6580.78] Não Nirvana -[6580.78 --> 6601.84] How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful is the body of Christ. -[6601.84 --> 6614.84] And as He lay down His blood, we offer this sacrifice. -[6616.14 --> 6627.10] That we will live just as we die, willing to pay the price. -[6627.10 --> 6651.10] How beautiful, how beautiful the radiant bride, who waits for her groom with his light in her eyes. -[6651.10 --> 6658.10] How beautiful, how humble hearts give. -[6659.56 --> 6665.10] If you love your life, so that others may live. -[6665.10 --> 6691.10] How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful is the body of Christ. -[6691.10 --> 6713.78] My Jesus, I love Thee. -[6713.78 --> 6718.78] I know Thou art Thine. -[6718.78 --> 6728.78] For Thee, all the follies of sin I resign. -[6729.78 --> 6740.78] My gracious Redeemer, my Savior art Thou. -[6740.78 --> 6751.78] If ever I love Thee, my Jesus is mine. -[6751.78 --> 6765.78] I love Thee because Thou hast first called me. -[6765.78 --> 6776.78] And purchased Thy pardon on Calvary's tree. -[6776.78 --> 6777.78] I love Thee. -[6777.78 --> 6787.78] I love Thee for wearing the thorns of Thy brow. -[6787.78 --> 6798.78] If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus is mine. -[6798.78 --> 6799.78] I love Thee. -[6799.78 --> 6800.78] I love Thee in life. -[6800.78 --> 6805.78] I love Thee in life. -[6805.78 --> 6813.78] I will love Thee in death. -[6813.78 --> 6826.78] And praise Thee as long as Thou lendest me breath. -[6826.78 --> 6833.78] And say, when the death do, -[6833.78 --> 6839.78] And say, when the death do, lies cold on my brow. -[6839.78 --> 6853.78] If ever I love Thee, my Jesus, tis now. -[6853.78 --> 6866.78] In mansions of glory and endless delight, -[6866.78 --> 6877.78] I'll ever adore Thee in heaven so bright. -[6877.78 --> 6889.78] I'll sing with a glittering crown on my brow. -[6889.78 --> 6902.78] If ever I love Thee, my Jesus is mine. -[6907.78 --> 6920.78] I'll sing with a glittering crown on my brow. -[6920.78 --> 6927.78] I'm going to invite you to stand. -[6927.78 --> 6930.78] We're going to end this meal together with a prayer. -[6930.78 --> 6934.78] After the prayer, I will speak a word of blessing over you, -[6934.78 --> 6937.78] and then we will conclude our worship with one final song. -[6937.78 --> 6940.78] Let's pray. -[6940.78 --> 6950.78] Amazing God, Holy Father, -[6950.78 --> 6956.78] You come into our ordinary lives and set a holy table among us, -[6956.78 --> 6961.78] filling our plates with the bread of life and our cups with salvation. -[6961.78 --> 6970.78] Send us out now, O God, with a tender heartedness to touch an ordinary everyday world -[6970.78 --> 6978.78] with the promise of Your extraordinary grace and reality of Your holiness. -[6978.78 --> 6981.78] Christ, we pray. -[6981.78 --> 6984.78] All God's people said, Amen. -[6984.78 --> 6988.78] As you go into this week, as you go into this world, -[6988.78 --> 6993.78] go knowing that you go with the King of the universe. -[6993.78 --> 6998.78] And so, receive the blessing of God for the journey ahead. -[6998.78 --> 7005.78] May God go before you to lead you. -[7005.78 --> 7008.78] May God go behind you to guard you. -[7008.78 --> 7011.78] May God go beneath you to support you. -[7011.78 --> 7014.78] And may God go beside you to befriend you. -[7014.78 --> 7016.78] Do not be afraid. -[7016.78 --> 7018.78] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[7018.78 --> 7025.78] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[7025.78 --> 7027.78] Amen. -[7055.78 --> 7064.78] I believe, I believe, I believe. -[7064.78 --> 7068.78] My shame is taken away. -[7068.78 --> 7071.78] My pain is healed in this game. -[7071.78 --> 7080.78] I believe, I believe. -[7080.78 --> 7085.78] I'll raise a banner. -[7085.78 --> 7088.78] My Lord has conquered the grave. -[7088.78 --> 7092.78] My Redeemer lives. -[7092.78 --> 7096.78] My Redeemer lives. -[7096.78 --> 7100.78] My Redeemer lives. -[7100.78 --> 7105.78] My Redeemer lives. -[7105.78 --> 7106.78] Leave, I believe, I believe. -[7106.78 --> 7107.78] свобод. -[7107.78 --> 7108.78] My Redeemer lives. -[7108.78 --> 7109.78] Your Redeemer lives. -[7109.78 --> 7110.78] I believe in Jesus. -[7110.78 --> 7116.78] I know that he is saved by Jesus. -[7116.78 --> 7117.78] I know that he can asks you this lies in! -[7117.78 --> 7121.78] His blood has covered my sin. -[7121.78 --> 7126.78] I believe, I believe. -[7126.78 --> 7131.78] I believe! -[7131.78 --> 7134.52] My shame is taken away. -[7135.60 --> 7138.72] My pain is healed in His name. -[7138.72 --> 7139.98] I believe. -[7142.66 --> 7143.72] I believe. -[7147.72 --> 7150.28] I'll raise a banner. -[7152.38 --> 7155.24] My Lord has conquered the grave. -[7155.56 --> 7158.88] My Redeemer lives. -[7158.88 --> 7185.36] My Redeemer lives. -[7185.36 --> 7188.28] My Redeemer lives. -[7188.88 --> 7195.88] You lift my burden, hence I'll rise with you. -[7197.18 --> 7204.42] I'm dancing on this mountain tall to see your kingdom come. -[7207.16 --> 7210.92] My Redeemer lives. -[7210.92 --> 7215.34] My Redeemer lives. -[7215.34 --> 7239.94] My Redeemer lives. -[7245.34 --> 7275.32] Thank you. -[7275.34 --> 7293.68] Thank you. -[7305.34 --> 7335.32] Thank you. -[7335.34 --> 7365.32] Thank you. -[7365.34 --> 7395.32] Thank you. -[7395.34 --> 7397.34] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 8 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 8 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c1666acf0098fd102db2256f03e6867a4b858d60..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 8 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,82 +0,0 @@ -• The song "The Battle Belongs to the Lord" is sung -• References are made to Psalm 138:8 and Romans 8:31-39 -• The lyrics emphasize God's power and sovereignty -• The phrase "the battle belongs to the Lord" is repeated throughout the song -• Discussion of a previous series called "Ask Anything" where questions were received from participants -• Introduction of a new topic: fertility and fertility treatments, and how Christians can address related theological and ethical issues -• Mention that stories of God's transformative work in others' lives can be powerful examples for believers -• Introduction of Josh and April Tuniga, who will share their personal story of living through fertility challenges -• Infertility struggles of Josh and April -• Importance of having supportive people in life's journey -• Storytelling about their experience with infertility and fertility treatments -• Difficulty in discerning God's leading during the process -• Support from medical team, friends, family, and faith community -• Overwhelming experience of navigating adoption and in vitro fertilization -• Theological issues related to adoption, such as the biblical concept of being adopted into God's family -• In vitro fertilization theological questions, including what makes a family and how to introduce new people -• Donor sperm or egg and its implications -• Disposition of embryos and human life definition -• Deciding on the commitment to embryos before starting fertility treatment -• Considering the moral and theological implications of creating multiple embryos -• Dealing with the option of what to do with leftover embryos after initial attempts at transfer -• Options for leftover embryos, including donation or transferring them again -• Theological and ethical considerations in deciding what to do with excess embryos -• Life begins at conception -• Number of frozen embryos in the US and Canada (over 700,000) -• Moral dilemma surrounding embryo adoption -• Personal experience with embryo adoption -• Difficulty of losing embryos that were genetically related to a couple -• Importance of careful consideration when facing infertility and medical interventions -• Preparing for potential challenges in advance can make decision-making easier -• Emotional issues related to fertility problems, including anger at God or oneself, are common -• Fertility issues can be tough on marriages and relationships -• Infertility can lead to feelings of loss, impatience, and frustration -• Experiencing emotions of anger, sadness, and grief after a miscarriage -• Being thankful for subsequent pregnancies with healthy babies -• Observing differences in how men and women deal with similar emotional experiences -• Struggling to balance priorities and set boundaries as a couple with differing views on having children -• Coming to terms with the idea that not being able to have children does not define one's identity or worth -• Managing emotions when friends become pregnant, especially when they choose not to share the news due to the speaker's struggles -• Dealing with the constant presence of infertility between partners -• Importance of talking about and sharing feelings with someone -• Need to persevere and remain committed to each other despite difficulties -• Value of having a small, supportive community for emotional support -• Importance of choosing who to share struggles with and when to share -• Fertility issues can make people more introverted and private -• The community of faith played an important role in helping them process emotions during this time -• They shared their experience openly with others, including a testimony at church -• God used the experience to strengthen their faith and make them better people -• The community's support helped them feel less alone and more connected to others -• Importance of community of faith during times of need -• The power of answered prayers and God's intervention -• Support from friends and acquaintances through gifts, cards, and prayer -• Practical advice for supporting those struggling to conceive or have a baby, including being sensitive to their situation and giving space -• Infertility and private issues -• Being sensitive to others' struggles with infertility -• The importance of being kind and not making hurtful comments -• Personal experience with infertility and adoption -• Emotional struggles with miscarriage and lost embryos -• Finding hope and comfort in God's knowledge and care for the children who were lost -• The speaker shares their experience as foster parents and adoptive family -• They discuss the challenges of adoption, including explaining embryo adoption to older children -• The speaker's children are from different racial backgrounds, but they feel grateful for their unique family dynamics -• Josh and April are thanked by the audience for sharing their story, and an invitation is made for others to connect with them -• A personal story is shared about a difficult time in Josh and April's fertility journey and their subsequent adoption of Kaylin -• Reflection on a story of someone's journey and the pain they experienced -• Recognizing that not every story ends in happiness -• Emphasizing the importance of spiritual parenting for those who have made baptismal vows -• Prayer for those going through challenging times and recognizing their connection as brothers and sisters in Christ -• The speaker describes themselves as a child of God -• The Lord's Supper is described as a family meal, but one that transcends biological ties to be based on faith in Jesus Christ -• The importance of remembering the sacrifice of Jesus through the elements of bread and wine -• Invitation for those present to come to the table of the Lord with gladness and sincerity -• Elders invited forward to participate in the service -• The Lord's Supper and its significance -• Invitation to stand and respond in prayer -• Parting blessing and final song -• Fellowship and encouragement to share life with others -• Prayer of thanksgiving for the sacrament -• Blessing and commissioning by God -• Praise and worship song -• Repetition of the phrase "You are God" -• Repetition of the phrase "God" or variations (e.g. "Father") \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - August 8 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - August 8 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 4b3eeee175f819ae7071c26c6c421fc112fc4fbc..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - August 8 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1705 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 7.44] With my hands lifted high, oh God, the battle belongs to you. -[7.86 --> 14.92] And every fear I lay at your feet, I'll see through the night. -[15.46 --> 19.14] Oh God, the battle belongs to you. -[19.14 --> 32.50] And if you are for me, who can be against me? -[37.08 --> 44.14] For Jesus, there's nothing impossible for you. -[44.14 --> 74.12] For Jesus, there's nothing impossible for you. -[74.14 --> 80.04] With my hands lifted high, oh God, the battle belongs to you. -[80.34 --> 87.52] And every fear I lay at your feet, I'll see through the night. -[88.08 --> 92.14] Oh God, the battle belongs to you. -[92.14 --> 98.04] Oh God, the battle belongs to you. -[98.04 --> 101.94] You go before us. -[101.94 --> 107.08] Nothing can stand against the power of our God. -[107.62 --> 109.98] You shine in the shadow. -[110.68 --> 113.00] You win every battle. -[114.34 --> 118.96] Nothing can stand against the power of our God. -[118.96 --> 120.96] In all mighty fortunes. -[120.96 --> 124.96] You go before us. -[124.96 --> 130.86] Nothing can stand against the power of our God. -[130.86 --> 132.86] You shine in the shadow. -[132.86 --> 136.74] You win every battle. -[136.74 --> 142.86] Nothing can stand against the power of our God. -[142.86 --> 144.86] In all mighty fortunes. -[144.86 --> 146.06] In all mighty fortunes. -[146.06 --> 148.86] You go before us. -[148.86 --> 150.86] Nothing can stand against the power of our God. -[150.86 --> 154.76] Nothing can stand against the power of our God. -[154.76 --> 156.76] You shine in the shadow. -[156.76 --> 160.76] You win every battle. -[160.76 --> 162.76] You win every battle. -[162.76 --> 166.76] Nothing can stand against the power of our God. -[166.76 --> 168.76] Oh God, the battle belongs to you. -[168.76 --> 169.76] Oh God, the battle belongs to you. -[169.76 --> 170.76] Oh God, the battle belongs to you. -[170.76 --> 175.76] And every fear I lay at your feet, I'll see through the night. -[175.76 --> 177.76] Oh God, the battle belongs to you. -[177.76 --> 206.26] Oh God, the battle belongs to you. -[207.76 --> 237.74] Thank you. -[237.76 --> 267.74] Thank you. -[267.76 --> 297.74] Thank you. -[297.76 --> 327.74] Thank you. -[327.76 --> 357.74] Thank you. -[357.76 --> 387.74] Thank you. -[387.76 --> 417.74] Thank you. -[417.76 --> 447.74] Thank you. -[447.76 --> 477.74] Thank you. -[477.76 --> 507.74] Thank you. -[507.76 --> 537.74] Thank you. -[537.76 --> 567.74] Thank you. -[567.76 --> 597.74] Thank you. -[597.76 --> 627.74] Thank you. -[627.74 --> 657.72] Thank you. -[657.74 --> 687.72] Thank you. -[687.74 --> 717.72] Thank you. -[717.74 --> 747.72] Thank you. -[747.74 --> 777.72] Thank you. -[777.74 --> 807.72] Thank you. -[807.74 --> 837.72] Thank you. -[837.74 --> 867.72] Thank you. -[867.74 --> 897.72] Thank you. -[897.74 --> 927.72] Thank you. -[927.74 --> 957.72] Thank you. -[957.74 --> 987.72] Thank you. -[987.74 --> 1017.72] Thank you. -[1017.74 --> 1047.72] Thank you. -[1047.74 --> 1077.72] Thank you. -[1077.74 --> 1107.72] Thank you. -[1107.74 --> 1137.72] Thank you. -[1137.74 --> 1167.72] Thank you. -[1167.74 --> 1197.72] Thank you. -[1197.74 --> 1227.72] Thank you. -[1227.74 --> 1257.72] Thank you. -[1257.74 --> 1287.72] Thank you. -[1287.74 --> 1317.72] Thank you. -[1317.74 --> 1347.72] Thank you. -[1347.74 --> 1377.72] Thank you. -[1377.74 --> 1407.72] Thank you. -[1407.74 --> 1437.72] Thank you. -[1437.72 --> 1467.70] Thank you. -[1467.72 --> 1497.70] Thank you. -[1497.72 --> 1527.70] Thank you. -[1527.72 --> 1557.70] Thank you. -[1557.72 --> 1587.70] Thank you. -[1587.72 --> 1617.70] Thank you. -[1617.72 --> 1647.70] Thank you. -[1647.72 --> 1677.70] Thank you. -[1677.72 --> 1707.70] Thank you. -[1707.70 --> 1737.68] Thank you. -[1737.70 --> 1767.68] Thank you. -[1767.70 --> 1797.68] Thank you. -[1797.70 --> 1827.70] Thank you. -[1827.70 --> 1857.68] Thank you. -[1857.68 --> 1887.68] Thank you. -[1887.68 --> 1917.66] Thank you. -[1917.68 --> 1947.68] Thank you. -[1947.68 --> 1977.66] Thank you. -[1977.68 --> 2007.66] Thank you. -[2007.68 --> 2037.66] Thank you. -[2037.66 --> 2067.64] Thank you. -[2067.64 --> 2097.62] Thank you. -[2097.62 --> 2127.60] Thank you. -[2127.62 --> 2157.60] Thank you. -[2157.62 --> 2187.60] Thank you. -[2187.62 --> 2217.60] Thank you. -[2217.62 --> 2247.60] Thank you. -[2247.62 --> 2277.60] Thank you. -[2277.60 --> 2307.58] Thank you. -[2307.60 --> 2337.58] Thank you. -[2337.58 --> 2367.56] Thank you. -[2367.58 --> 2397.56] Thank you. -[2397.56 --> 2427.56] Thank you. -[2427.56 --> 2457.54] Thank you. -[2457.54 --> 2487.52] Thank you. -[2487.54 --> 2517.52] Thank you. -[2517.54 --> 2547.52] Thank you. -[2547.54 --> 2577.52] Thank you. -[2577.52 --> 2607.52] Thank you. -[2607.52 --> 2637.52] Thank you. -[2637.52 --> 2667.52] Thank you. -[2667.52 --> 2697.50] Thank you. -[2697.52 --> 2727.52] Thank you. -[2727.52 --> 2757.52] Thank you. -[2757.52 --> 2787.52] Thank you. -[2787.52 --> 2817.52] Thank you. -[2817.52 --> 2847.52] Thank you. -[2847.52 --> 2877.52] Thank you. -[2877.52 --> 2907.52] Thank you. -[2907.52 --> 2937.52] Thank you. -[2937.52 --> 2938.52] Thank you. -[2967.52 --> 2969.52] Thank you. -[2997.52 --> 3027.52] Thank you. -[3027.52 --> 3057.52] Thank you. -[3057.52 --> 3058.52] Thank you. -[3058.52 --> 3088.52] Thank you. -[3088.52 --> 3089.52] And for you. -[3089.52 --> 3090.52] Thank you. -[3090.52 --> 3091.52] Thank you. -[3091.52 --> 3093.52] Thank you. -[3121.52 --> 3122.52] Thank you. -[3122.52 --> 3123.52] Thank you. -[3123.52 --> 3124.52] Thank you. -[3124.52 --> 3125.52] Thank you. -[3125.52 --> 3126.52] Thank you. -[3153.52 --> 3154.52] And for you. -[3154.52 --> 3155.52] And for you. -[3155.52 --> 3156.52] And for you. -[3156.52 --> 3158.52] And for you. -[3158.52 --> 3160.52] And for you. -[3160.52 --> 3161.52] And for you. -[3161.52 --> 3164.52] And for you. -[3164.52 --> 3170.48] And you ah, -[3170.52 --> 3172.62] that we have up or you. -[3172.62 --> 3174.52] And the cross, you forward, right. -[3174.52 --> 3175.54] Yeah. -[3175.54 --> 3176.52] I'm so, you cars, anyway. -[3176.52 --> 3177.04] And for you, that you are, you know. -[3177.04 --> 3189.84] So, I'm Oh, my gosh, thank you to use, I feel you, I think. -[3189.84 --> 3191.86] our Lord. Amen. -[3193.24 --> 3193.76] Amen. -[3199.82 --> 3201.98] As I mentioned, -[3202.52 --> 3205.64] we have been going through -[3205.64 --> 3207.80] a series here called -[3207.80 --> 3208.76] Ask Anything, -[3209.74 --> 3212.00] where we had an opportunity to -[3212.00 --> 3214.10] receive questions from you -[3214.10 --> 3216.00] and online -[3216.00 --> 3217.66] and digitally and personally, -[3217.66 --> 3219.28] and then we would spend the summer -[3219.28 --> 3220.46] answering them. -[3221.28 --> 3223.52] We had to make some changes for what was today. -[3223.66 --> 3224.72] I've explained that already. -[3225.52 --> 3227.54] And so this morning, we're going to pick up -[3227.54 --> 3228.80] a conversation -[3228.80 --> 3231.06] around issues of -[3231.06 --> 3232.92] fertility and -[3232.92 --> 3235.60] fertility treatments and how Christians -[3235.60 --> 3237.02] can best -[3237.02 --> 3239.52] be present in the midst of that -[3239.52 --> 3241.44] and what sort of theological and -[3241.44 --> 3243.40] ethical issues arise -[3243.40 --> 3245.48] in those sorts of conversations. -[3246.32 --> 3247.82] Now, as a matter of -[3247.82 --> 3248.96] principle, -[3249.28 --> 3250.20] I want to say that -[3250.20 --> 3252.58] sometimes the best answer -[3252.58 --> 3253.98] to a good question -[3253.98 --> 3256.72] is a story of -[3256.72 --> 3257.92] God at work. -[3259.20 --> 3260.08] So sometimes -[3260.08 --> 3261.94] the best way that we can answer -[3261.94 --> 3263.30] a question is just to -[3263.30 --> 3264.96] look at a life lived -[3264.96 --> 3266.22] in the midst of -[3266.22 --> 3268.04] the struggles that we are -[3268.04 --> 3269.30] recognizing and face. -[3269.96 --> 3271.48] And so this morning, -[3272.32 --> 3273.50] instead of me -[3273.50 --> 3274.88] talking to you -[3274.88 --> 3276.58] for some time, -[3276.58 --> 3278.50] we're going to hear the testimony -[3278.50 --> 3279.94] of some friends of mine. -[3280.32 --> 3281.28] And so I'm going to -[3281.28 --> 3282.54] introduce you to -[3282.54 --> 3284.16] Josh and April Tuniga. -[3285.22 --> 3286.38] Josh and -[3286.38 --> 3286.80] April, -[3287.30 --> 3288.60] Rachel and I met -[3288.60 --> 3290.16] when we went to Grand Rapids -[3290.16 --> 3291.40] and went to seminary there. -[3291.88 --> 3293.02] And for the last -[3293.02 --> 3293.92] 12, -[3294.18 --> 3295.26] 15 years, -[3295.26 --> 3296.70] we've lived life -[3296.70 --> 3297.38] with them -[3297.38 --> 3298.38] and we've walked -[3298.38 --> 3299.50] a journey with them. -[3299.50 --> 3300.98] And they have a powerful -[3300.98 --> 3301.86] story to share. -[3302.04 --> 3302.30] And so -[3302.30 --> 3306.22] because I believe -[3306.22 --> 3307.86] that stories of -[3307.86 --> 3308.98] God transforming -[3308.98 --> 3310.60] people will fuel -[3310.60 --> 3312.08] God's transforming -[3312.08 --> 3312.92] us -[3312.92 --> 3313.76] when we hear them, -[3314.12 --> 3314.80] we're going to listen -[3314.80 --> 3315.88] to their story -[3315.88 --> 3316.76] this morning. -[3317.50 --> 3318.64] I also want to hold -[3318.64 --> 3319.92] this out as an example -[3319.92 --> 3321.14] and an opportunity -[3321.14 --> 3321.98] for us -[3321.98 --> 3323.58] to be the kind of people -[3323.58 --> 3324.64] who can share -[3324.64 --> 3325.96] these sorts of stories, -[3325.96 --> 3327.44] to be the kind of people -[3327.44 --> 3329.16] who can get into -[3329.16 --> 3329.88] the mess -[3329.88 --> 3330.74] and the chaoses -[3330.74 --> 3332.62] of life together. -[3333.14 --> 3333.38] And so, -[3333.46 --> 3333.70] of course, -[3333.76 --> 3334.58] not everyone is going -[3334.58 --> 3335.62] to do that with everyone. -[3336.14 --> 3337.08] And Josh and April -[3337.08 --> 3338.06] will give us some examples -[3338.06 --> 3338.58] of that. -[3338.66 --> 3339.72] But it is important -[3339.72 --> 3341.26] that we have some people -[3341.26 --> 3342.52] in our lives -[3342.52 --> 3345.00] who can journey with us -[3345.00 --> 3346.34] whatever we may face. -[3346.84 --> 3347.60] The story that we are -[3347.60 --> 3348.22] about to hear -[3348.22 --> 3349.78] is an example of why -[3349.78 --> 3350.62] I think that -[3350.62 --> 3351.78] is important. -[3352.06 --> 3352.70] And so I'm going to -[3352.70 --> 3353.62] hand it over to them -[3353.62 --> 3355.40] as we watch this video -[3355.40 --> 3356.78] that we've put together. -[3357.54 --> 3358.40] I gave them -[3358.40 --> 3359.44] a series of questions -[3359.44 --> 3361.18] and if they were here, -[3361.28 --> 3361.78] we would have done -[3361.78 --> 3363.00] this sort of interview style, -[3363.16 --> 3364.00] but they're in Ontario. -[3364.68 --> 3365.84] And so because of that, -[3366.00 --> 3367.60] we will do it this way. -[3368.08 --> 3369.72] And then after they have finished, -[3369.80 --> 3370.42] I will come up -[3370.42 --> 3371.34] and close us out -[3371.34 --> 3372.42] with prayer here. -[3373.54 --> 3375.52] Let's hear from Josh and April. -[3378.22 --> 3380.60] Hello, we're Josh and April -[3380.60 --> 3382.70] and we're in Ontario -[3382.70 --> 3383.82] and Pastor Chris -[3383.82 --> 3384.64] has invited us -[3384.64 --> 3385.74] to talk a little bit -[3385.74 --> 3388.64] about infertility -[3388.64 --> 3390.40] and things around that. -[3390.90 --> 3391.82] And that is a struggle -[3391.82 --> 3392.94] that April and I -[3392.94 --> 3393.80] have gone through -[3393.80 --> 3395.32] and continue to go through. -[3395.48 --> 3396.32] It's one of those struggles -[3396.32 --> 3397.76] that never ends, -[3397.98 --> 3398.44] I think. -[3398.62 --> 3400.66] But yeah, -[3400.70 --> 3401.66] we started when we -[3401.66 --> 3402.62] when we got married, -[3402.74 --> 3405.24] we year after that or so, -[3405.30 --> 3406.42] then we discovered -[3406.42 --> 3407.30] that we were unable -[3407.30 --> 3408.16] to have children. -[3408.16 --> 3416.02] and so I think that for us, -[3416.08 --> 3418.68] that was really devastating news. -[3418.76 --> 3419.64] It was hard to share. -[3419.72 --> 3420.42] It felt like it was -[3420.42 --> 3421.44] a really personal thing. -[3422.10 --> 3423.52] But we made a decision early -[3423.52 --> 3425.06] to share with lots of people -[3425.06 --> 3425.54] about it -[3425.54 --> 3426.76] and we had a lot of people -[3426.76 --> 3428.10] praying for us through it. -[3428.80 --> 3429.24] And so, -[3429.24 --> 3431.30] yeah, -[3431.34 --> 3432.48] we have a big story -[3432.48 --> 3433.84] around that. -[3434.34 --> 3435.44] You want to add anything to that? -[3436.86 --> 3437.88] There's lots to add. -[3437.96 --> 3438.84] I think we both knew -[3438.84 --> 3439.72] that we wanted kids. -[3439.80 --> 3440.78] We both come from families -[3440.78 --> 3441.62] with four kids. -[3441.84 --> 3443.42] And so we sort of had in our minds -[3443.42 --> 3445.00] that we also wanted four kids. -[3445.00 --> 3447.46] And we quickly figured out -[3447.46 --> 3448.80] what the problem was -[3448.80 --> 3449.52] and knew that -[3449.52 --> 3451.38] if we wanted to have kids at all, -[3451.92 --> 3453.74] it wasn't going to be -[3453.74 --> 3454.86] an easy road for us -[3454.86 --> 3455.38] in that -[3455.38 --> 3457.66] when you first start -[3457.66 --> 3458.66] with fertility stuff, -[3458.72 --> 3460.12] there's all kinds of questions. -[3460.24 --> 3461.32] There's all kinds of appointments. -[3462.20 --> 3463.84] There's all kinds of people -[3463.84 --> 3465.06] giving you advice -[3465.06 --> 3465.78] and input -[3465.78 --> 3467.18] that you may or may not want. -[3467.86 --> 3468.60] And so it was really hard -[3468.60 --> 3469.18] to discern -[3469.18 --> 3471.14] exactly where God was leading us. -[3472.42 --> 3473.90] And thankfully, -[3473.90 --> 3475.62] we had a really great -[3475.62 --> 3476.60] team of people -[3476.60 --> 3477.82] both medically -[3477.82 --> 3479.48] and friendship -[3479.48 --> 3481.08] and family-wise too -[3481.08 --> 3482.08] that were supporting us -[3482.08 --> 3483.54] the whole way. -[3483.66 --> 3485.02] But it was really, -[3485.16 --> 3485.94] really overwhelming -[3485.94 --> 3486.60] for sure -[3486.60 --> 3487.80] when we started the journey. -[3487.94 --> 3488.42] And sometimes -[3488.42 --> 3490.50] as we got farther -[3490.50 --> 3491.14] into our journey, -[3491.18 --> 3492.26] it was still really overwhelming. -[3492.44 --> 3493.90] There was a lot of questions -[3493.90 --> 3495.42] and things that we didn't understand. -[3496.00 --> 3496.48] And again, -[3496.58 --> 3497.36] lots of advice -[3497.36 --> 3500.16] that sometimes we didn't want -[3500.16 --> 3501.34] or need. -[3501.34 --> 3503.76] And so it was a lot. -[3503.90 --> 3504.54] For sure. -[3506.62 --> 3509.46] So the question here is, -[3509.52 --> 3510.96] what are some of the theological issues -[3510.96 --> 3512.28] that you wrestled with together? -[3512.82 --> 3514.34] And do you have any advice -[3514.34 --> 3515.94] for others on how to do this? -[3516.52 --> 3517.64] So when we're thinking about, -[3517.88 --> 3519.76] our family is built in, -[3520.02 --> 3521.18] we have three children -[3521.18 --> 3523.54] and they come to us -[3523.54 --> 3524.68] by God's grace -[3524.68 --> 3525.62] in three different ways. -[3525.62 --> 3527.62] And so it's, -[3527.84 --> 3530.00] when we, -[3530.58 --> 3532.16] we started on the road -[3532.16 --> 3532.84] to adoption -[3532.84 --> 3534.60] as well as -[3534.60 --> 3535.52] having, -[3536.54 --> 3537.82] starting in vitro. -[3538.18 --> 3538.96] And so -[3538.96 --> 3540.12] there's all kinds -[3540.12 --> 3541.26] of theological issues -[3541.26 --> 3542.34] involved there, -[3542.34 --> 3543.16] I think, -[3543.24 --> 3544.28] that we had to think about. -[3546.38 --> 3547.40] One of them, -[3547.98 --> 3549.02] just with adoption, -[3549.26 --> 3549.94] so our eldest -[3549.94 --> 3550.92] is through adoption -[3550.92 --> 3551.50] and she, -[3553.50 --> 3554.20] yeah, -[3555.34 --> 3555.64] I think -[3555.64 --> 3557.16] there's not as many -[3557.16 --> 3558.20] theological issues -[3558.20 --> 3558.92] to think about. -[3559.44 --> 3560.58] But I think about -[3560.58 --> 3562.40] that, -[3563.04 --> 3565.36] I often marvel at -[3565.36 --> 3566.60] the idea -[3566.60 --> 3567.72] in the Bible -[3567.72 --> 3569.36] that we are adopted -[3569.36 --> 3570.50] into God's family. -[3570.58 --> 3571.24] And I see that, -[3571.30 --> 3572.34] we see that played out -[3572.34 --> 3573.08] in our family -[3573.08 --> 3575.04] in a smaller scale, -[3575.16 --> 3575.46] of course. -[3575.46 --> 3576.42] and we're just -[3576.42 --> 3577.56] amazed by it. -[3577.74 --> 3577.98] And we, -[3578.32 --> 3580.36] yeah, -[3580.48 --> 3580.96] we're really, -[3581.32 --> 3582.40] it moves us -[3582.40 --> 3583.36] to praise God -[3583.36 --> 3584.40] that we also -[3584.40 --> 3585.04] are adopted -[3585.04 --> 3586.00] into his family. -[3587.00 --> 3587.96] When we talk -[3587.96 --> 3589.52] about in vitro, -[3589.60 --> 3590.16] we started thinking -[3590.16 --> 3590.58] about that. -[3590.66 --> 3591.16] There were lots -[3591.16 --> 3591.92] of other -[3591.92 --> 3593.78] theological questions. -[3594.36 --> 3594.82] Like, -[3595.06 --> 3596.12] one of them -[3596.12 --> 3596.42] is, -[3596.64 --> 3599.32] is just -[3599.32 --> 3599.92] what makes -[3599.92 --> 3600.38] a family -[3600.38 --> 3601.36] and how do you -[3601.36 --> 3601.70] want to, -[3602.18 --> 3603.54] do you want to -[3603.54 --> 3604.60] introduce other people -[3604.60 --> 3605.14] into that? -[3605.46 --> 3605.92] So we, -[3606.22 --> 3606.44] you know, -[3606.50 --> 3607.26] whether it was -[3607.26 --> 3608.30] donor sperm -[3608.30 --> 3609.52] or donor egg -[3609.52 --> 3610.66] or something like that, -[3610.74 --> 3611.42] is that something -[3611.42 --> 3611.82] that, -[3612.36 --> 3614.00] that we could do? -[3614.08 --> 3614.62] We thought a lot -[3614.62 --> 3615.06] about that -[3615.06 --> 3615.64] and prayed a lot -[3615.64 --> 3616.36] about that too. -[3616.96 --> 3617.12] And, -[3617.20 --> 3618.04] and then -[3618.04 --> 3619.12] the other theological -[3619.12 --> 3620.04] issue is -[3620.04 --> 3620.76] what are you going -[3620.76 --> 3621.44] to do with -[3621.44 --> 3622.52] the embryos -[3622.52 --> 3623.20] that you have? -[3623.80 --> 3624.22] And what do you -[3624.22 --> 3625.14] think a human life -[3625.14 --> 3625.44] is? -[3625.48 --> 3626.02] And when does it -[3626.02 --> 3626.34] start? -[3626.46 --> 3627.24] And those kinds -[3627.24 --> 3627.88] of questions. -[3628.56 --> 3629.12] And so, -[3629.56 --> 3630.58] yeah, -[3630.58 --> 3631.04] part of that -[3631.04 --> 3631.62] was like -[3631.62 --> 3633.10] deciding what -[3633.10 --> 3633.68] our commitment -[3633.68 --> 3634.34] was -[3634.34 --> 3635.96] to any -[3635.96 --> 3636.60] and every -[3636.60 --> 3637.66] particular embryo -[3637.66 --> 3638.48] before we started. -[3639.38 --> 3639.84] And so, -[3640.44 --> 3640.88] that, -[3641.02 --> 3641.74] that's something -[3641.74 --> 3642.60] because -[3642.60 --> 3643.54] thinking about, -[3644.54 --> 3644.96] you know, -[3644.98 --> 3645.50] an embryo -[3645.50 --> 3645.84] is, -[3645.90 --> 3646.84] is life -[3646.84 --> 3647.44] and it is -[3647.44 --> 3648.42] a person -[3648.42 --> 3648.96] and so -[3648.96 --> 3649.44] to treat -[3649.44 --> 3650.36] that as a person, -[3651.18 --> 3652.42] it was really -[3652.42 --> 3653.06] important to us -[3653.06 --> 3654.02] to think through that. -[3655.08 --> 3656.42] The medical -[3656.42 --> 3657.44] community today, -[3657.96 --> 3658.16] well, -[3658.20 --> 3658.50] I don't know -[3658.50 --> 3659.04] about the medical -[3659.04 --> 3659.48] community, -[3659.48 --> 3661.04] but when you're, -[3661.36 --> 3661.94] if somebody is -[3661.94 --> 3662.46] working through -[3662.46 --> 3662.96] in vitro -[3662.96 --> 3663.90] or creating -[3663.90 --> 3664.98] embryos, -[3665.00 --> 3665.38] they're not -[3665.38 --> 3666.12] going to do -[3666.12 --> 3666.88] mostly like -[3666.88 --> 3667.24] two. -[3667.72 --> 3668.12] They're going -[3668.12 --> 3668.60] to make like -[3668.60 --> 3669.40] six or eight -[3669.40 --> 3669.90] or ten -[3669.90 --> 3670.54] or twelve. -[3670.70 --> 3671.16] And so, -[3671.62 --> 3672.44] we very early -[3672.44 --> 3673.14] in our fertility -[3673.14 --> 3673.84] journey said -[3673.84 --> 3675.08] whichever embryos -[3675.08 --> 3675.90] we are able -[3675.90 --> 3677.02] to have, -[3677.54 --> 3678.46] we're committed -[3678.46 --> 3678.94] to each and -[3678.94 --> 3679.52] every one of -[3679.52 --> 3679.72] them, -[3679.86 --> 3680.42] even if that -[3680.42 --> 3680.78] means our -[3680.78 --> 3681.24] family is -[3681.24 --> 3682.28] ridiculously large. -[3682.90 --> 3683.02] And so, -[3683.06 --> 3683.46] that was the -[3683.46 --> 3684.06] big step of -[3684.06 --> 3684.56] faith too -[3684.56 --> 3685.60] because there's -[3685.60 --> 3686.80] often, -[3687.22 --> 3687.44] I mean, -[3687.44 --> 3688.08] and we've -[3688.08 --> 3688.36] heard of -[3688.36 --> 3688.76] lots of -[3688.76 --> 3689.34] couples who -[3689.34 --> 3690.48] they do -[3690.48 --> 3691.12] in vitro, -[3691.66 --> 3692.36] they have -[3692.36 --> 3692.74] their two -[3692.74 --> 3693.30] kids and -[3693.30 --> 3693.56] they don't -[3693.56 --> 3693.90] really know -[3693.90 --> 3694.42] what to do -[3694.42 --> 3694.74] with the -[3694.74 --> 3695.22] six or eight -[3695.22 --> 3695.88] embryos that -[3695.88 --> 3696.34] are left. -[3697.06 --> 3697.70] And some -[3697.70 --> 3698.14] of those -[3698.14 --> 3699.18] issues become -[3699.18 --> 3700.66] theological -[3700.66 --> 3701.46] issues and -[3701.46 --> 3702.14] ethical issues -[3702.14 --> 3702.62] as to what -[3702.62 --> 3703.14] you do with -[3703.14 --> 3703.60] all of those -[3703.60 --> 3704.48] embryos afterwards. -[3705.66 --> 3706.38] There's not -[3706.38 --> 3706.90] a ton, -[3707.06 --> 3707.22] well, -[3707.28 --> 3707.58] there are -[3707.58 --> 3708.40] options, -[3708.82 --> 3710.38] you know, -[3710.42 --> 3711.02] so your options -[3711.02 --> 3712.26] after you -[3712.26 --> 3712.66] create an -[3712.66 --> 3713.26] embryo is of -[3713.26 --> 3713.74] course to -[3713.74 --> 3714.64] transfer them -[3714.64 --> 3715.48] and pray that -[3715.48 --> 3716.08] they continue -[3716.08 --> 3716.52] to grow. -[3717.44 --> 3718.26] in utero, -[3718.66 --> 3719.12] you can -[3719.12 --> 3719.52] donate them -[3719.52 --> 3720.10] to science, -[3720.20 --> 3720.62] which is, -[3721.04 --> 3721.58] as most -[3721.58 --> 3722.14] Christians I -[3722.14 --> 3722.44] think would -[3722.44 --> 3723.18] agree that if -[3723.18 --> 3723.70] life begins -[3723.70 --> 3724.30] at conception, -[3724.52 --> 3725.34] that's not a -[3725.34 --> 3726.08] viable option. -[3726.86 --> 3727.92] And then a -[3727.92 --> 3728.88] newer option in -[3728.88 --> 3729.76] Canada particularly -[3729.76 --> 3730.62] is embryo -[3730.62 --> 3731.02] adoption. -[3731.90 --> 3732.68] There's something -[3732.68 --> 3733.60] like over -[3733.60 --> 3735.20] 700,000 frozen -[3735.20 --> 3735.90] embryos in the -[3735.90 --> 3736.46] United States -[3736.46 --> 3736.98] and Canada. -[3737.70 --> 3738.06] And if you -[3738.06 --> 3738.94] consider all of -[3738.94 --> 3739.82] those individual -[3739.82 --> 3741.68] lives that God -[3741.68 --> 3742.32] has created, -[3743.02 --> 3744.12] there's a huge -[3744.12 --> 3745.20] sort of moral -[3745.20 --> 3746.16] dilemma that us -[3746.16 --> 3746.62] as Christians -[3746.62 --> 3747.10] face. -[3747.10 --> 3748.18] as to how we -[3748.18 --> 3748.68] can help to -[3748.68 --> 3749.12] address that -[3749.12 --> 3749.44] problem. -[3750.06 --> 3750.72] And that's -[3750.72 --> 3751.08] something that -[3751.08 --> 3751.64] we feel really -[3751.64 --> 3752.80] privileged to -[3752.80 --> 3753.66] have experienced -[3753.66 --> 3755.28] an embryo -[3755.28 --> 3755.72] adoption. -[3757.16 --> 3758.10] Our youngest -[3758.10 --> 3760.26] son's genetic -[3760.26 --> 3761.48] family chose us -[3761.48 --> 3763.20] as their adoptive -[3763.20 --> 3764.22] family and they -[3764.22 --> 3764.88] gave us five -[3764.88 --> 3765.42] embryos, -[3765.46 --> 3766.16] which we were -[3766.16 --> 3767.34] unbelievably -[3767.34 --> 3768.44] grateful for. -[3768.96 --> 3770.24] And we were -[3770.24 --> 3771.20] able to have -[3771.20 --> 3771.96] one son from -[3771.96 --> 3772.26] that, -[3772.50 --> 3773.20] from those five -[3773.20 --> 3773.88] embryos and we -[3773.88 --> 3774.48] lost the other -[3774.48 --> 3774.88] four. -[3774.88 --> 3775.88] four babies -[3775.88 --> 3776.46] and which I -[3776.46 --> 3776.84] still, -[3777.08 --> 3777.72] in some ways, -[3778.14 --> 3778.90] that was also -[3778.90 --> 3779.32] really, -[3779.84 --> 3780.76] really, -[3780.84 --> 3781.72] really difficult to -[3781.72 --> 3782.50] lose those four -[3782.50 --> 3783.46] babies because they -[3783.46 --> 3784.08] were my babies -[3784.08 --> 3784.46] already, -[3784.76 --> 3786.16] even though genetically -[3786.16 --> 3788.22] they belonged to -[3788.22 --> 3790.98] another family. -[3790.98 --> 3792.90] so that's a really big -[3792.90 --> 3793.98] question that I think -[3793.98 --> 3795.20] every couple who is -[3795.20 --> 3797.08] facing infertility and -[3797.08 --> 3798.62] moving towards some -[3798.62 --> 3799.14] of the medical -[3799.14 --> 3800.72] interventions that are -[3800.72 --> 3801.10] available, -[3801.90 --> 3803.00] to think really -[3803.00 --> 3804.18] carefully about each -[3804.18 --> 3805.52] of those things and -[3805.52 --> 3806.60] what they look like to -[3806.60 --> 3807.68] you and what you can -[3807.68 --> 3808.62] envision in your future -[3808.62 --> 3809.42] and what God's called -[3809.42 --> 3809.92] you to do. -[3809.92 --> 3812.20] We have another set of -[3812.20 --> 3813.86] friends too who said, -[3813.96 --> 3814.60] we can't commit to -[3814.60 --> 3815.50] eight embryos or ten -[3815.50 --> 3816.00] embryos, -[3816.12 --> 3817.24] please only make two. -[3817.88 --> 3819.08] And they knew that if -[3819.08 --> 3819.96] they only made two, -[3820.62 --> 3821.58] then those are the only -[3821.58 --> 3822.72] two chances that they -[3822.72 --> 3823.32] would have. -[3823.90 --> 3825.52] And so that's a -[3825.52 --> 3826.74] sacrifice in some ways -[3826.74 --> 3828.08] too because it's a -[3828.08 --> 3828.42] long, -[3828.92 --> 3829.40] prolonged -[3829.40 --> 3832.34] ordeal to go through -[3832.34 --> 3833.46] the preparation -[3833.46 --> 3835.58] to get an embryo -[3835.58 --> 3836.30] and to transfer. -[3836.30 --> 3838.10] So yeah, -[3838.10 --> 3838.98] there's lots of issues -[3838.98 --> 3839.78] to think about and to -[3839.78 --> 3840.48] pray about and to -[3840.48 --> 3841.30] seek wisdom on, -[3841.54 --> 3842.80] both from people who -[3842.80 --> 3844.24] are wiser than you -[3844.24 --> 3845.32] and maybe more -[3845.32 --> 3845.92] experienced, -[3846.42 --> 3847.46] but also your doctors -[3847.46 --> 3848.94] and nurses and maybe -[3848.94 --> 3849.76] other people who've -[3849.76 --> 3850.90] gone through it also. -[3852.18 --> 3853.36] The advice for that -[3853.36 --> 3854.04] would be to think -[3854.04 --> 3855.48] about those things -[3855.48 --> 3857.40] beforehand rather than -[3857.40 --> 3858.48] in the moment because -[3858.48 --> 3859.96] it's harder to make -[3859.96 --> 3861.00] those decisions in the -[3861.00 --> 3862.80] moment than if you -[3862.80 --> 3864.12] have decided that -[3864.12 --> 3864.48] already. -[3864.48 --> 3866.68] what are some -[3866.68 --> 3868.08] emotional issues that -[3868.08 --> 3869.32] we wrestled with -[3869.32 --> 3871.08] together? -[3871.62 --> 3872.38] Do you have any -[3872.38 --> 3873.40] advice on how to do -[3873.40 --> 3873.72] that? -[3875.18 --> 3876.88] Fertility issues are -[3876.88 --> 3877.72] really tough on -[3877.72 --> 3878.16] marriage. -[3879.28 --> 3880.38] I think that we all -[3880.38 --> 3881.44] just assume that if -[3881.44 --> 3882.04] we want children, -[3882.16 --> 3882.76] we'll get children. -[3883.28 --> 3883.92] And we don't think -[3883.92 --> 3885.30] about oftentimes it -[3885.30 --> 3886.14] doesn't go as smoothly -[3886.14 --> 3886.68] as that. -[3886.78 --> 3887.74] Sometimes it just takes -[3887.74 --> 3888.50] a long time to get -[3888.50 --> 3889.24] pregnant naturally. -[3890.02 --> 3891.04] And if you end up -[3891.04 --> 3891.84] having to do some -[3891.84 --> 3892.70] fertility stuff, -[3892.70 --> 3895.06] every appointment -[3895.06 --> 3895.84] takes forever. -[3896.22 --> 3896.94] And then there's so -[3896.94 --> 3897.98] many steps to get to -[3897.98 --> 3898.70] the point where you -[3898.70 --> 3899.54] need to be at. -[3900.10 --> 3900.90] Sometimes your body -[3900.90 --> 3902.02] doesn't cooperate or -[3902.02 --> 3903.14] sometimes your schedule -[3903.14 --> 3905.04] doesn't coincide with -[3905.04 --> 3905.72] the schedule of the -[3905.72 --> 3906.74] doctor's offices or the -[3906.74 --> 3907.56] hospitals or whoever -[3907.56 --> 3908.06] you need to be -[3908.06 --> 3908.64] connected to. -[3909.06 --> 3909.92] So for me, -[3909.98 --> 3910.90] an emotional issue -[3910.90 --> 3911.98] that I faced was -[3911.98 --> 3912.24] one, -[3912.30 --> 3913.52] I was angry. -[3913.80 --> 3914.62] I couldn't understand -[3914.62 --> 3915.62] why God would deny -[3915.62 --> 3917.70] me the honor and -[3917.70 --> 3918.60] privilege of being a -[3918.60 --> 3918.82] mom. -[3918.82 --> 3920.68] I feel like I had -[3920.68 --> 3921.96] given up so much to -[3921.96 --> 3923.40] follow God and to -[3923.40 --> 3925.62] try to complete his -[3925.62 --> 3926.48] will for my life. -[3926.56 --> 3926.86] And I couldn't -[3926.86 --> 3927.50] understand why he -[3927.50 --> 3929.44] wouldn't give me a -[3929.44 --> 3929.78] baby. -[3930.42 --> 3930.82] And I mean, -[3930.88 --> 3931.72] this is like a long, -[3931.80 --> 3931.96] I mean, -[3932.00 --> 3933.12] my oldest kid is 12 -[3933.12 --> 3933.84] now and it still -[3933.84 --> 3934.86] brings me to tears -[3934.86 --> 3937.48] to think about why -[3937.48 --> 3939.16] would God do this to -[3939.16 --> 3939.46] me? -[3939.66 --> 3939.98] Right? -[3940.06 --> 3941.10] And I look back and -[3941.10 --> 3942.22] God didn't do this to -[3942.22 --> 3942.44] me. -[3942.74 --> 3943.76] God allowed me to go -[3943.76 --> 3945.50] through these struggles -[3945.50 --> 3947.88] to understand his -[3947.88 --> 3948.58] love for me, -[3948.78 --> 3949.90] to be able to parent -[3949.90 --> 3953.12] a child that I would -[3953.12 --> 3954.32] never otherwise have -[3954.32 --> 3955.12] been able to parent -[3955.12 --> 3957.06] and to love all three -[3957.06 --> 3957.64] of my kids, -[3957.98 --> 3958.38] you know? -[3959.86 --> 3961.36] So I was angry for a -[3961.36 --> 3963.00] long time and I -[3963.00 --> 3963.88] actually wasn't angry -[3963.88 --> 3965.02] at Josh, -[3965.70 --> 3966.86] but I was angry at -[3966.86 --> 3967.76] God for a long time. -[3969.08 --> 3970.14] And then the other -[3970.14 --> 3972.50] sort of emotional issue -[3972.50 --> 3973.72] is just that sense of, -[3974.30 --> 3974.36] well, -[3974.36 --> 3974.64] one, -[3974.70 --> 3975.24] impatience, -[3975.36 --> 3975.80] but two, -[3975.88 --> 3976.56] just loss. -[3976.66 --> 3978.76] I desired to be -[3978.76 --> 3979.14] pregnant. -[3979.70 --> 3980.56] Lots of my girlfriends -[3980.56 --> 3981.64] were pregnant and they -[3981.64 --> 3982.62] were all just having -[3982.62 --> 3983.80] babies and it seemed so -[3983.80 --> 3984.12] easy. -[3984.76 --> 3985.12] And again, -[3985.12 --> 3986.12] I was kind of angry -[3986.12 --> 3988.10] and just sad and -[3988.10 --> 3989.16] grieving about that. -[3990.38 --> 3990.94] Thankfully, -[3991.28 --> 3992.76] God has allowed me to -[3992.76 --> 3993.94] be pregnant twice with -[3993.94 --> 3996.88] two healthy fat baby -[3996.88 --> 3998.02] boys and really -[3998.02 --> 3999.10] excellent pregnancies. -[3999.72 --> 4000.88] So I'm so thankful for -[4000.88 --> 4001.80] that honor and -[4001.80 --> 4004.74] pregnancy is not always -[4004.74 --> 4005.36] easy either, -[4005.48 --> 4008.24] but it was just a joy -[4008.24 --> 4008.92] to be able to -[4008.92 --> 4009.80] experience that. -[4011.30 --> 4012.40] So both of those -[4012.40 --> 4013.46] things emotionally were -[4013.46 --> 4014.38] really tough for me. -[4014.70 --> 4015.90] The other thing that I -[4015.90 --> 4017.66] think is interesting is -[4017.66 --> 4019.28] men and women tend to -[4019.28 --> 4020.24] deal with those kinds of -[4020.24 --> 4020.86] things differently. -[4021.14 --> 4022.66] So I wanted to talk -[4022.66 --> 4023.64] about it all the time -[4023.64 --> 4024.30] with whoever would -[4024.30 --> 4024.68] listen. -[4025.02 --> 4025.76] That's not true, -[4025.82 --> 4026.52] but I wanted to talk -[4026.52 --> 4027.58] about it with Josh a lot -[4027.58 --> 4029.42] and Josh didn't want -[4029.42 --> 4030.10] to talk about it all -[4030.10 --> 4030.52] the time. -[4030.52 --> 4030.96] Right. -[4031.02 --> 4031.98] And so that's just a -[4031.98 --> 4033.68] difference between the -[4033.68 --> 4034.40] two of us. -[4034.40 --> 4035.46] And sometimes it was -[4035.46 --> 4037.78] really hard to find a -[4037.78 --> 4040.40] good balance and also -[4040.40 --> 4041.52] set our priorities in -[4041.52 --> 4044.48] our marriage to that -[4044.48 --> 4045.56] having children wasn't -[4045.56 --> 4046.44] going to define us -[4046.44 --> 4047.30] having or having not -[4047.30 --> 4048.32] having children wasn't -[4048.32 --> 4050.54] going to define us that -[4050.54 --> 4052.50] we were placed here for -[4052.50 --> 4053.40] a greater purpose than -[4053.40 --> 4054.62] just to parent kids. -[4054.62 --> 4054.96] Right. -[4055.00 --> 4055.62] And that was a really -[4055.62 --> 4059.22] hard sort of issue to -[4059.22 --> 4060.22] work through to to -[4060.22 --> 4061.14] realize that if I didn't -[4061.14 --> 4062.40] ever have children that I -[4062.40 --> 4063.28] wasn't any less of a -[4063.28 --> 4064.90] person or less of a -[4064.90 --> 4066.48] woman or less of a -[4066.48 --> 4066.82] wife. -[4067.34 --> 4068.50] It just was going to be -[4068.50 --> 4069.24] something different for -[4069.24 --> 4069.48] me. -[4069.98 --> 4071.10] So that was something to -[4071.10 --> 4072.76] think about too for us as -[4072.76 --> 4073.88] we worked through all of -[4073.88 --> 4074.14] that. -[4075.26 --> 4077.98] Yeah, I think if you -[4077.98 --> 4079.12] know, there's a normal -[4079.12 --> 4081.54] experiences of jealousy, -[4082.40 --> 4084.02] maybe I wouldn't put it -[4084.02 --> 4085.08] as strongly as that. -[4085.22 --> 4086.44] But, you know, the -[4086.44 --> 4088.02] really hard, the hardest -[4088.02 --> 4089.46] part for me was when -[4089.46 --> 4091.00] good, good friends of -[4091.00 --> 4092.14] ours would be pregnant -[4092.14 --> 4093.10] and they wouldn't want -[4093.10 --> 4094.70] to tell us because they -[4094.70 --> 4095.34] knew we struggled. -[4095.54 --> 4098.04] And so and then you go -[4098.04 --> 4098.94] through these strange -[4098.94 --> 4100.10] things where you want to -[4100.10 --> 4101.84] be happy for someone, but -[4101.84 --> 4102.76] it hurts at the same -[4102.76 --> 4103.32] time. -[4103.78 --> 4105.14] And they want to share, -[4105.32 --> 4106.08] but they know it's going -[4106.08 --> 4106.74] to hurt you. -[4106.96 --> 4109.18] And it's just a weird, it's -[4109.18 --> 4110.08] a weird time. -[4110.08 --> 4113.02] So I think that that's a -[4113.02 --> 4113.56] big thing. -[4114.46 --> 4116.18] Those kinds of emotions. -[4117.88 --> 4120.04] Yeah, the great sadness -[4120.04 --> 4124.00] at not being able to -[4124.00 --> 4125.98] fulfill the desire that -[4125.98 --> 4128.16] each other have in terms -[4128.16 --> 4129.36] of children. -[4129.36 --> 4131.18] that's a that's a real hard -[4131.18 --> 4132.46] thing to do or to -[4132.46 --> 4133.20] experience. -[4134.24 --> 4135.40] And I and I totally -[4135.40 --> 4136.28] understand. -[4136.68 --> 4136.84] Wow. -[4137.14 --> 4139.42] I mean, I know of people -[4139.42 --> 4141.18] who have separated their -[4141.18 --> 4142.18] marriage dissolved over -[4142.18 --> 4144.34] fertility issues and people -[4144.34 --> 4145.56] can't believe it. -[4145.78 --> 4147.92] But I understand that it's -[4147.92 --> 4148.74] really difficult. -[4149.68 --> 4150.88] It's a constant. -[4150.98 --> 4152.50] It's constantly there between -[4152.50 --> 4153.26] the two of you. -[4153.26 --> 4157.02] So what advice do you -[4157.02 --> 4158.70] have for this is just to -[4158.70 --> 4160.24] I think, you know, know -[4160.24 --> 4162.34] know that these are not -[4162.34 --> 4165.20] feelings that no one else -[4165.20 --> 4166.60] has experienced and -[4166.60 --> 4170.24] yeah, be able to talk -[4170.24 --> 4171.14] about it with somebody. -[4172.08 --> 4173.42] Maybe not all the time, -[4174.24 --> 4176.14] but, you know, and -[4176.14 --> 4178.46] and persevere, be committed -[4178.46 --> 4179.68] to one another through it. -[4180.06 --> 4181.62] As difficult as it is. -[4181.62 --> 4184.48] I mean, ultimately, we -[4184.48 --> 4185.26] knew that we were on the -[4185.26 --> 4186.32] same team and we desired -[4186.32 --> 4187.18] the same thing. -[4189.04 --> 4191.04] And I mean, we look back -[4191.04 --> 4192.18] now and I know that we're -[4192.18 --> 4194.30] on the other side, but we -[4194.30 --> 4195.60] look back at the years that -[4195.60 --> 4197.22] we spent just the two of us -[4197.22 --> 4199.04] childless and we had some -[4199.04 --> 4201.28] really great experiences and -[4201.28 --> 4202.44] some great traveling. -[4203.22 --> 4203.34] Right. -[4203.40 --> 4205.82] And so that was always kind of -[4205.82 --> 4207.30] in the background for us. -[4207.88 --> 4209.42] But we didn't waste those -[4209.42 --> 4211.52] years simply being angry -[4211.52 --> 4213.84] at each other or pining -[4213.84 --> 4214.92] away for something that we -[4214.92 --> 4216.26] didn't know if it was ever -[4216.26 --> 4216.90] going to happen. -[4217.06 --> 4219.44] And so I feel if I look -[4219.44 --> 4220.48] back now, I'm really -[4220.48 --> 4221.36] thankful for those years -[4221.36 --> 4224.18] that we spent before we -[4224.18 --> 4224.86] had kids. -[4225.08 --> 4226.78] And we really I think our -[4226.78 --> 4227.32] marriage was really -[4227.32 --> 4228.30] strengthened during those -[4228.30 --> 4229.32] times, even though it was -[4229.32 --> 4230.30] really, really difficult. -[4232.70 --> 4234.32] Josh mentioned sort of the -[4234.32 --> 4235.52] idea of talking to people -[4235.52 --> 4236.08] about it. -[4236.08 --> 4239.58] I think that you I can't say -[4239.58 --> 4239.96] for you. -[4240.04 --> 4241.34] For me personally, I needed -[4241.34 --> 4242.74] to choose sort of a small -[4242.74 --> 4243.64] community of women, -[4243.74 --> 4245.52] particularly to come around -[4245.52 --> 4246.76] me and to support me and -[4246.76 --> 4247.38] pray for me. -[4248.18 --> 4249.86] But also those women knew -[4249.86 --> 4250.96] they couldn't just ask me -[4250.96 --> 4252.58] out of the blue, you know, -[4252.64 --> 4254.04] how is it going with all of -[4254.04 --> 4254.42] this? -[4254.54 --> 4254.76] Right. -[4254.82 --> 4255.92] So they knew that I would -[4255.92 --> 4257.06] might approach them at any -[4257.06 --> 4258.96] given time, but I could -[4258.96 --> 4260.12] trust them enough not to bring -[4260.12 --> 4261.16] it up at every single -[4261.16 --> 4262.28] opportunity, too. -[4262.28 --> 4264.30] So they were very and those -[4264.30 --> 4265.60] those women actually changed -[4265.60 --> 4266.76] over the years depending on -[4266.76 --> 4268.70] where we were living and -[4268.70 --> 4272.26] our sort of connection to -[4272.26 --> 4273.62] each other at that at that -[4273.62 --> 4274.36] point in time. -[4275.04 --> 4277.04] But for me, it was definitely -[4277.04 --> 4278.32] a small group of women that -[4278.32 --> 4279.62] I could trust that would just -[4279.62 --> 4280.70] pray for me anywhere. -[4281.36 --> 4282.76] I remember sitting in the -[4282.76 --> 4284.44] aisles of a bookstore in front -[4284.44 --> 4287.44] of the the law section and my -[4287.44 --> 4288.34] friend was like, let me just -[4288.34 --> 4289.34] pray for you right now. -[4289.40 --> 4290.56] And we just sat down and we -[4290.56 --> 4291.92] prayed and everybody was just -[4291.92 --> 4292.88] like they looked down those -[4292.88 --> 4293.98] aisles and they were like, oh, -[4294.12 --> 4294.94] and they just kind of like -[4294.94 --> 4296.64] made a big, you know, went to -[4296.64 --> 4297.24] the next aisle. -[4297.44 --> 4299.22] And so that was really, really -[4299.22 --> 4300.12] important to me. -[4301.10 --> 4302.16] But it doesn't need to be -[4302.16 --> 4303.10] shared with the whole world. -[4303.20 --> 4304.32] Not everybody needs to know -[4304.32 --> 4305.64] why you don't have kids yet. -[4305.98 --> 4307.54] And so you just share as you -[4307.54 --> 4309.02] feel comfortable, too. -[4309.62 --> 4311.80] And also making sure that you -[4311.80 --> 4314.18] both feel comfortable sharing -[4314.18 --> 4315.22] it like you can't. -[4315.38 --> 4316.34] I mean, as a woman, I would -[4316.34 --> 4318.70] or as my personality, probably -[4318.70 --> 4320.30] I would probably talk more -[4320.30 --> 4321.48] freely with more people. -[4321.48 --> 4322.76] But I know that Josh is a -[4322.76 --> 4324.72] little bit more private and -[4324.72 --> 4326.48] didn't want me to share it -[4326.48 --> 4326.94] with everybody. -[4327.08 --> 4328.44] So I needed to respect that -[4328.44 --> 4331.52] from his perspective also. -[4333.60 --> 4334.00] Good. -[4335.00 --> 4335.36] Okay. -[4336.56 --> 4338.58] Handle questions of faith in -[4338.58 --> 4339.36] the midst of the above. -[4339.48 --> 4340.66] I think so. -[4341.38 --> 4342.76] April already mentioned that, -[4342.90 --> 4344.58] but me, too, felt really angry -[4344.58 --> 4347.68] at God and really struggled -[4347.68 --> 4349.30] with that and didn't understand. -[4349.30 --> 4352.08] You know, when I tell my faith -[4352.08 --> 4353.58] story, I always have verses -[4353.58 --> 4354.84] that fit with different -[4354.84 --> 4356.40] periods of my life and then -[4356.40 --> 4357.90] that were my favorite. -[4358.04 --> 4359.58] And I think that Psalm 13 -[4359.58 --> 4362.08] was the one I kept going back -[4362.08 --> 4363.64] to time and time again in that -[4363.64 --> 4363.90] time. -[4363.98 --> 4365.42] Like, how long, oh Lord? -[4366.08 --> 4367.48] Will you forget me forever? -[4367.70 --> 4369.14] These sort of things. -[4369.34 --> 4370.88] And that the Psalms of Lament, -[4371.00 --> 4373.12] I could really pray in those times. -[4373.12 --> 4377.10] But I also know that despite my -[4377.10 --> 4381.24] disposition, so that God still -[4381.24 --> 4383.54] loved me even though I didn't -[4383.54 --> 4386.62] feel it the same way or he wasn't -[4386.62 --> 4388.24] fulfilling my every demand. -[4389.94 --> 4394.54] And so I think that, well, first of -[4394.54 --> 4397.10] all, I know that I have people -[4397.10 --> 4399.80] praying for me and on behalf of me, -[4399.92 --> 4401.86] sort of bringing me before the throne -[4401.86 --> 4403.10] of God in April, before the throne -[4403.10 --> 4405.52] of God, even when I couldn't do -[4405.52 --> 4406.26] that myself. -[4406.52 --> 4409.26] And I also know that when I look -[4409.26 --> 4411.26] back, and this wouldn't have been -[4411.26 --> 4413.40] helpful in the moment to say, -[4413.50 --> 4415.10] but when I look back, I see that God -[4415.10 --> 4417.30] used that in tremendous ways to make -[4417.30 --> 4423.84] me a better person, to strengthen -[4423.84 --> 4424.18] my faith. -[4424.18 --> 4425.48] It's a test of faith, right? -[4425.48 --> 4429.54] I need an opportunity for faith to be -[4429.54 --> 4430.94] stretched and grow. -[4431.92 --> 4435.78] So I, in some ways, as much as it still, -[4435.94 --> 4439.04] even still, fertility still, infertility -[4439.04 --> 4439.68] still hurts. -[4440.84 --> 4444.34] In some ways, I know that I wouldn't be -[4444.34 --> 4446.72] anywhere near the same person as I was -[4446.72 --> 4447.44] before. -[4447.44 --> 4449.76] So God uses it. -[4453.90 --> 4455.84] But in the time, didn't think that, -[4456.18 --> 4457.48] didn't think it was very good at all. -[4457.88 --> 4461.84] So, yeah, I don't know. -[4462.40 --> 4463.54] That's, I'll cover that one. -[4464.38 --> 4467.14] So then, what role does the community -[4467.14 --> 4469.30] of faith play for people struggling -[4469.30 --> 4470.60] with fertility issues? -[4471.04 --> 4473.20] Give practical advice to help us be -[4473.20 --> 4473.76] better than that. -[4473.76 --> 4477.94] So I think that fertility issues naturally -[4477.94 --> 4482.56] tend to make us more introverted with -[4482.56 --> 4483.76] it or private with it. -[4483.90 --> 4486.92] Because we are talking about sex and we -[4486.92 --> 4488.86] are talking about the ability to have a -[4488.86 --> 4489.20] baby. -[4489.84 --> 4493.64] And, you know, that's kind of a private -[4493.64 --> 4494.52] and personal thing. -[4494.62 --> 4497.16] And so you tend to sort of circle the -[4497.16 --> 4498.60] wagons and keep it close. -[4499.34 --> 4500.54] And then you don't share. -[4500.64 --> 4502.40] And then the only people that you have -[4502.40 --> 4505.70] to process all your emotions with are -[4505.70 --> 4506.28] each other. -[4506.52 --> 4509.84] And sometimes, you know, one partner -[4509.84 --> 4511.78] might not want to hear it as often or -[4511.78 --> 4514.02] just think about it differently or -[4514.02 --> 4514.38] whatever. -[4515.04 --> 4517.02] So the community of faith for us was so -[4517.02 --> 4517.26] important. -[4517.36 --> 4520.22] I said earlier that we decided that we -[4520.22 --> 4522.80] would be open and share and have that -[4522.80 --> 4523.12] freedom. -[4523.68 --> 4526.90] We did a testimony in our church in the -[4526.90 --> 4527.56] midst of it. -[4527.56 --> 4533.86] But I was, yeah, and we, so we had lots -[4533.86 --> 4535.40] of people praying for us and lots of -[4535.40 --> 4536.54] people knowing about it. -[4536.94 --> 4540.94] And, and our closest friends all knew -[4540.94 --> 4542.28] about it and were praying for us. -[4542.42 --> 4544.14] And, and I tell you though, when, when -[4544.14 --> 4546.08] God answered our prayers and our -[4546.08 --> 4547.94] daughter, we adopted our daughter, we -[4547.94 --> 4550.80] had so many people who were so excited -[4550.80 --> 4553.26] because they all recognized that it was -[4553.26 --> 4555.10] an answer to so many prayers. -[4555.10 --> 4558.58] Um, so I, you know, without the -[4558.58 --> 4560.92] community of faith, I don't know that -[4560.92 --> 4562.36] we would have made it. -[4562.96 --> 4565.32] Uh, we, I don't know that we would have -[4565.32 --> 4566.02] stayed the course. -[4566.10 --> 4568.08] I, I think it would have been too hard -[4568.08 --> 4571.28] without the encouraging words and, and, -[4571.40 --> 4573.40] and cards and prayers and all those -[4573.40 --> 4573.82] things. -[4574.96 --> 4576.44] Um, so I don't know. -[4576.50 --> 4577.24] What do you think about you? -[4577.76 --> 4578.40] You agree with that? -[4578.74 --> 4578.96] Yeah. -[4578.96 --> 4581.16] I mean, after we brought Kaylin home, -[4581.76 --> 4585.24] um, I received, we received, uh, gifts -[4585.24 --> 4587.46] from people we didn't even know, um, -[4587.52 --> 4590.84] that, that were so excited that we had -[4590.84 --> 4593.18] finally gotten a baby and, you know, -[4593.20 --> 4594.60] and of course she was the most beautiful -[4594.60 --> 4595.74] baby you'd ever seen. -[4595.74 --> 4596.74] So of course. -[4596.74 --> 4597.06] Right. -[4597.52 --> 4599.38] Um, but no, it was just such, and I -[4599.38 --> 4602.74] mean, I remember goodness, um, a baby -[4602.74 --> 4605.06] shower in which I owned zero pink -[4605.06 --> 4605.54] clothing. -[4605.54 --> 4607.28] And after that baby shower and after -[4607.28 --> 4608.58] all the gifts came in the mail, I had -[4608.58 --> 4610.92] an entire closet full of pink things. -[4611.34 --> 4613.16] Um, and I just couldn't even fathom -[4613.16 --> 4614.44] that so many people loved and cared -[4614.44 --> 4614.98] for us. -[4615.32 --> 4617.00] Um, and that our, I think that our -[4617.00 --> 4619.04] story just spoke to so many people and -[4619.04 --> 4621.62] it was, um, just really, really amazing. -[4622.30 --> 4624.86] Um, I think some practical advice for, -[4625.00 --> 4626.62] for people who are maybe trying to -[4626.62 --> 4630.00] support or who are wondering is wait -[4630.00 --> 4633.48] for the conversation to open, um, a -[4633.48 --> 4637.38] little bit, but also don't be super -[4637.38 --> 4638.24] shy about it. -[4638.30 --> 4638.64] I don't know. -[4638.64 --> 4640.06] That's not very good advice, but I -[4640.06 --> 4641.28] mean, don't walk up to somebody and -[4641.28 --> 4642.22] be like, you guys have been married -[4642.22 --> 4642.94] two years. -[4642.94 --> 4644.16] Are you going to have a baby soon? -[4644.40 --> 4644.76] Right? -[4644.78 --> 4645.86] Like that is not helpful. -[4645.86 --> 4648.00] And I came up with a lot of really, -[4648.00 --> 4650.48] um, sarcastic answers for those folks. -[4650.96 --> 4653.12] Um, but you know, you can, you know, -[4653.18 --> 4655.16] it's okay to ask questions and it's -[4655.16 --> 4656.40] okay to say, you know what, I'm just -[4656.40 --> 4657.12] praying for you guys. -[4657.12 --> 4658.88] I know often you're trying to have a -[4658.88 --> 4660.88] baby within the first, you know, five -[4660.88 --> 4662.36] years or seven years of being -[4662.36 --> 4663.84] married and if that's not happening, -[4664.04 --> 4666.70] um, it's maybe okay to say, you know, -[4666.72 --> 4667.64] I'm just praying for you guys. -[4667.72 --> 4669.06] I know that, you know, being married -[4669.06 --> 4670.90] is tough because being married with -[4670.90 --> 4673.74] or without kids is, is a journey in -[4673.74 --> 4674.10] itself. -[4674.10 --> 4674.42] Right. -[4674.48 --> 4678.30] And so, um, but be, be sensitive to -[4678.30 --> 4680.06] those questions and also give space. -[4680.10 --> 4682.44] I know that for a long time, um, I -[4682.44 --> 4684.20] didn't go to church on mother's day. -[4684.20 --> 4686.56] I didn't go to church baby showers. -[4686.56 --> 4691.00] Um, I, I kind of like just even -[4691.00 --> 4693.08] baptisms were really difficult for a -[4693.08 --> 4693.38] while. -[4693.38 --> 4694.76] And so I just stepped back. -[4695.22 --> 4697.08] Um, so you might just be aware if -[4697.08 --> 4698.82] there's women and men in your life who -[4698.82 --> 4700.30] are kind of stepping back from some of -[4700.30 --> 4702.14] those sorts of events that maybe you -[4702.14 --> 4703.96] just start praying for them and, and -[4703.96 --> 4705.76] then maybe a conversation or a comment -[4705.76 --> 4707.74] will come up in conversation with them. -[4707.74 --> 4708.82] And then you can say, you know, I've -[4708.82 --> 4709.56] been praying for you. -[4709.92 --> 4712.36] Um, and that will go a long ways, I think. -[4712.36 --> 4715.18] Um, but be graceful and be patient. -[4715.44 --> 4717.24] Um, and like Josh said, it's a super -[4717.24 --> 4718.08] private issue. -[4718.62 --> 4720.62] Um, you don't want to be discussing the -[4720.62 --> 4722.10] inner workings of your body with just -[4722.10 --> 4723.28] anybody and everybody. -[4724.02 --> 4726.62] Um, and it's not somewhere you don't want -[4726.62 --> 4728.24] to talk about it, like in the fellowship -[4728.24 --> 4729.80] hall after church or at the grocery -[4729.80 --> 4732.08] store or on the soccer field or something -[4732.08 --> 4732.84] like that either. -[4733.10 --> 4735.62] Um, so just be kind of be, um, sensitive -[4735.62 --> 4736.92] to all of those things. -[4736.92 --> 4737.70] I think that's important. -[4737.96 --> 4738.14] Yeah. -[4738.20 --> 4740.42] I still haven't gone to baby shower at the -[4740.42 --> 4742.34] church, but, uh, -[4742.36 --> 4745.84] um, I think it's, uh, that's the trouble -[4745.84 --> 4748.66] is that when someone is going through -[4748.66 --> 4750.02] infertility, they don't want to talk -[4750.02 --> 4751.04] about it all the time either. -[4751.18 --> 4752.60] And so I think it's okay to say, Hey, -[4753.02 --> 4754.28] praying for you when you want to talk -[4754.28 --> 4755.14] about it, let me know. -[4755.50 --> 4757.60] Um, and, and we can talk about it. -[4758.12 --> 4760.86] Um, I, I don't think it's particularly -[4760.86 --> 4761.42] helpful. -[4761.42 --> 4763.86] And I know people make jokes about couples -[4763.86 --> 4766.02] that have been married a couple of years -[4766.02 --> 4767.84] and there's no kids and they start, they -[4767.84 --> 4769.74] start making kind of silly remarks and -[4769.74 --> 4772.44] stuff and, and it's all in good. -[4773.56 --> 4774.56] It's what it is. -[4774.80 --> 4777.80] And, and people who are going through -[4777.80 --> 4781.78] infertility, maybe they, um, I mean, -[4781.84 --> 4785.24] take it as, um, in the best way possible, -[4785.52 --> 4786.54] laugh it off, let it go. -[4786.62 --> 4788.02] They're not intending to hurt you. -[4788.02 --> 4791.38] Um, and for those of us who are inclined -[4791.38 --> 4793.36] to make those remarks, maybe think twice -[4793.36 --> 4795.32] about that because you don't know, you -[4795.32 --> 4796.44] don't know what people are going through -[4796.44 --> 4799.60] and, uh, it's not helpful. -[4800.24 --> 4805.16] So, um, but the church is so important. -[4805.44 --> 4805.98] There we go. -[4806.40 --> 4806.70] Yeah. -[4807.22 --> 4809.58] So how did your story process? -[4810.86 --> 4814.10] So, oh, well, I was going to say, so -[4814.10 --> 4818.58] we have a, um, our oldest is adopted, um, -[4818.58 --> 4820.24] with a private domestic adoption. -[4820.24 --> 4823.10] So her birth mom actually chose us, um, -[4823.10 --> 4824.42] which we're so honored for. -[4824.60 --> 4826.92] And we can't imagine what that would -[4826.92 --> 4828.12] have been like for her. -[4828.12 --> 4830.06] And we always, we always remember her -[4830.06 --> 4831.66] particularly on our daughter's birthday. -[4831.66 --> 4833.32] And we've been able to talk about it a -[4833.32 --> 4834.20] little bit with our daughter. -[4834.72 --> 4836.14] Um, so that's been amazing. -[4836.14 --> 4839.98] Our second child is the result of, um, -[4840.80 --> 4842.90] fertility treatments, um, in vitro. -[4842.90 --> 4845.86] Um, we lost a lot of babies before I -[4845.86 --> 4846.74] got pregnant with him. -[4847.56 --> 4851.46] Um, he's amazing and, uh, interesting -[4851.46 --> 4852.42] kid. -[4852.80 --> 4854.28] Um, and he's almost 10. -[4855.24 --> 4858.40] Um, that was amazing that I think he -[4858.40 --> 4860.88] was our eighth embryo, um, out of eight. -[4861.00 --> 4862.64] So he was kind of our last chance. -[4862.64 --> 4863.66] So that was pretty amazing. -[4863.66 --> 4865.08] And then Lucas is our youngest. -[4865.24 --> 4866.80] So Jude is our middle one. -[4866.86 --> 4867.88] And then Lucas is our youngest. -[4867.88 --> 4870.86] And, um, his genetic family gave us -[4870.86 --> 4872.72] the embryos and we got pregnant -[4872.72 --> 4876.64] really easily, um, with him, um, and had a great pregnancy. -[4876.64 --> 4878.10] He's almost six. -[4878.60 --> 4885.70] Um, but then we lost the last four embryos and, um, those losses were just as hard as -[4885.70 --> 4887.88] any of the losses we had already experienced. -[4888.26 --> 4892.22] Um, and I grouped for a long time over those lost babies. -[4892.22 --> 4908.48] Um, I do take great hope and great, um, encouragement to know that each of those lost babies, um, I think there's 11 of them that I lost, that we lost, um, that God already, God knows who they are and God's got them. -[4908.48 --> 4914.82] And someday, um, when I get to heaven, that I will be able to meet all of those, um, children. -[4915.20 --> 4921.44] And so I don't know what that looks like, of course, but, um, I do know that God was with us every step of the way. -[4921.50 --> 4922.82] And he continues to be with us. -[4922.82 --> 4927.22] And, and we, um, we celebrate adoption stories and fostering stories. -[4927.84 --> 4935.04] Um, we actually are foster parents right now just to come alongside families who are struggling because we know that parenting is difficult. -[4935.04 --> 4940.32] Um, and sometimes kids just need a safe place to stay for a while. -[4940.82 --> 4943.38] Um, that's been, um, a God thing too. -[4944.24 --> 4950.26] Um, yeah, so we, yeah, there's lots of unique challenges, kind of like Pastor Chris said in his questions. -[4950.78 --> 4952.74] Um, everybody faces unique challenges. -[4953.28 --> 4958.62] Um, I think some of the challenges for us as our kids get bigger would be, will be to further explain their stories. -[4958.94 --> 4963.86] I know that our middle son has already asked why he doesn't have any biological brothers and sisters. -[4963.86 --> 4972.62] Whereas both of our adopted kids do, um, you know, and, and even just the intricacies of embryo adoption is a bit tricky. -[4972.62 --> 4976.58] And, and, you know, we'll teach a little bit more as, as they get older. -[4977.08 --> 4986.84] Um, my kids, our kids, um, don't look like each other, but they very clearly belong to each other as brothers and sisters, sister. -[4987.32 --> 4989.62] Um, which is really, again, a gift from God. -[4990.14 --> 4993.84] Um, yeah, so lots of challenges, but so many joy. -[4994.50 --> 4999.40] Um, and we don't, um, regret any of our decisions. -[5000.14 --> 5002.62] Um, and we're really thankful for what God's given to us. -[5003.70 --> 5004.02] Mm-hmm. -[5005.72 --> 5006.14] Yep. -[5006.28 --> 5014.02] I think, uh, so, yeah, we are just blessed with these three kids that look nothing like each other. -[5014.02 --> 5017.26] And, um, I mean, different races as well. -[5017.50 --> 5026.60] And, uh, we're blessed to live in a place where, um, that hasn't been such a problem or, or concern. -[5026.60 --> 5035.00] And I think, um, but we're just like, uh, in, uh, other families. -[5035.00 --> 5039.14] We're raising these children who struggle with total depravity and they don't listen. -[5039.14 --> 5045.86] And, uh, but it's, it's, uh, it's the joy of being a family together. -[5047.10 --> 5049.88] Um, so, yeah, that's it. -[5049.88 --> 5058.10] Um, we are, one of the things that April and I have been pretty open with and, uh, well, we're open with our story. -[5058.22 --> 5063.46] And so we, we're limited for time here probably, but, uh, we, we are open to sharing it. -[5063.46 --> 5073.32] And so if you would like someone to talk to or, uh, to pray with you or just to hear our story more, you can call, call us or email us. -[5073.32 --> 5074.90] And, uh, we're willing to do that. -[5074.90 --> 5078.24] So thanks for listening to us. -[5078.24 --> 5095.50] I want to, uh, first of all, thank Josh and April for, for sharing that with us. -[5095.50 --> 5099.22] Uh, and there's a very real chance that they are checking us out online right now. -[5099.22 --> 5101.78] So can we thank them by just giving them a round of applause? -[5108.24 --> 5115.86] If you would like to connect with Josh and April, you can grab me and I will give you their contact information. -[5116.44 --> 5121.46] Um, I'm so grateful for Josh and April's story. -[5121.66 --> 5126.88] Uh, in the last couple of days, I've heard this testimony three times as we've put it together. -[5126.88 --> 5128.66] And, uh, every time I've heard it, I've cried. -[5129.28 --> 5130.82] Uh, and I will never forget. -[5131.50 --> 5134.62] There was a time where we were, uh, in seminary together. -[5134.62 --> 5140.50] A group of us were in the library and Josh and April had gone back to Ontario to do a fertility treatment. -[5141.18 --> 5144.34] Um, and to, to see if a treatment had worked. -[5144.94 --> 5148.56] Uh, and Josh found us in the library after the treatment didn't work. -[5148.86 --> 5150.80] And he saw us and he just started weeping. -[5150.92 --> 5153.36] And he came over to me and he says, why does God hate me? -[5155.24 --> 5157.10] And we just wept together. -[5158.78 --> 5161.60] These emotions are raw and they are real. -[5161.60 --> 5167.22] Uh, and some of us can go through life and circumstance without ever experiencing any of it. -[5167.30 --> 5169.16] Without seeing it in the lives of other people. -[5169.92 --> 5171.70] And if you are in the midst of that, -[5172.54 --> 5174.00] I want you to know -[5174.00 --> 5177.24] that we know. -[5178.74 --> 5179.84] And that it is real. -[5180.70 --> 5181.76] And that you are not alone. -[5183.20 --> 5184.10] And so please, -[5185.10 --> 5187.46] allow someone, -[5187.46 --> 5189.28] doesn't have to be me, -[5189.38 --> 5189.98] but I will, -[5190.68 --> 5192.08] to journey with you. -[5193.02 --> 5195.28] And to share that story together. -[5197.06 --> 5198.62] I will never forget the day -[5198.62 --> 5200.98] that Josh and April -[5200.98 --> 5202.50] told us that -[5202.50 --> 5204.84] Kaylin's birth mom had picked them. -[5205.54 --> 5206.76] And then four days later, -[5207.46 --> 5208.62] four days later, -[5209.00 --> 5209.68] Kaylin was born. -[5210.42 --> 5211.66] They had four days -[5211.66 --> 5213.68] to adjust to this whole reality. -[5213.68 --> 5214.72] And then she came -[5214.72 --> 5215.94] and she was born -[5215.94 --> 5217.44] at like five pounds, -[5217.60 --> 5218.26] eleven ounces. -[5218.50 --> 5219.40] She was tiny -[5219.40 --> 5220.56] and beautiful. -[5221.34 --> 5222.66] And we cried all over again. -[5222.92 --> 5224.24] This time for a different reason. -[5225.16 --> 5225.90] But I also know -[5225.90 --> 5226.72] that not every story -[5226.72 --> 5227.40] ends that way. -[5228.70 --> 5229.46] Not every story -[5229.46 --> 5230.42] finishes like that. -[5230.52 --> 5230.82] And so, -[5231.60 --> 5232.34] wherever you are -[5232.34 --> 5233.10] in that story, -[5234.10 --> 5235.44] know that you are not alone. -[5235.84 --> 5236.58] And we are together. -[5237.90 --> 5239.52] Josh also wanted me to say, -[5239.78 --> 5240.72] because he didn't get it -[5240.72 --> 5241.34] in the, -[5241.34 --> 5242.24] in the video there, -[5242.24 --> 5245.40] that it is so important -[5245.40 --> 5246.16] for all of us -[5246.16 --> 5247.02] as church members -[5247.02 --> 5247.80] to recognize -[5247.80 --> 5248.82] and to realize -[5248.82 --> 5249.78] and to live -[5249.78 --> 5251.10] into the truth of -[5251.10 --> 5252.88] that whether we are married -[5252.88 --> 5254.04] or single, -[5254.40 --> 5255.38] whether we are young -[5255.38 --> 5256.40] or old, -[5256.40 --> 5257.80] that we are all -[5257.80 --> 5258.96] spiritual mothers -[5258.96 --> 5259.60] and fathers -[5259.60 --> 5260.76] to those kids -[5260.76 --> 5261.68] whom we make -[5261.68 --> 5262.92] baptismal vows to. -[5264.68 --> 5265.34] And so, -[5265.42 --> 5266.36] regardless of your journey -[5266.36 --> 5267.40] of faith and life, -[5267.78 --> 5269.76] you are a spiritual parent -[5269.76 --> 5271.80] to those -[5271.80 --> 5273.10] whom you have stood -[5273.10 --> 5274.06] in front of -[5274.06 --> 5275.28] and said, -[5275.80 --> 5276.38] do you promise -[5276.38 --> 5277.54] to love and support -[5277.54 --> 5278.28] this child -[5278.28 --> 5279.56] and raise them up -[5279.56 --> 5280.70] in the faith -[5280.70 --> 5281.80] according to the teachings -[5281.80 --> 5282.46] of this church? -[5282.60 --> 5283.32] And you said, -[5283.88 --> 5284.34] we do, -[5285.04 --> 5285.96] God helping us. -[5287.04 --> 5287.96] We do, -[5288.92 --> 5289.84] God helping us. -[5290.50 --> 5291.58] That is who we are. -[5291.72 --> 5291.92] Amen? -[5291.92 --> 5292.02] Amen? -[5293.34 --> 5294.32] Let me pray with you -[5294.32 --> 5295.66] and invite the worship team -[5295.66 --> 5296.78] to make their way back up. -[5296.78 --> 5299.74] Father God, -[5299.80 --> 5300.42] we thank you -[5300.42 --> 5301.24] for the story -[5301.24 --> 5302.50] of Josh and April. -[5303.12 --> 5303.58] We thank you -[5303.58 --> 5303.98] for the way -[5303.98 --> 5305.26] that you have used -[5305.26 --> 5305.84] that story -[5305.84 --> 5306.54] and have spoken -[5306.54 --> 5307.88] into our circumstances -[5307.88 --> 5308.78] here and now. -[5309.16 --> 5309.74] And we pray, -[5309.92 --> 5310.34] Lord God, -[5310.40 --> 5311.20] for the men and women -[5311.20 --> 5312.98] who are in the midst -[5312.98 --> 5315.22] of this journey. -[5316.44 --> 5318.00] We pray for the chaoses -[5318.00 --> 5319.04] and the crying out, -[5319.14 --> 5319.60] how long, -[5319.68 --> 5320.06] oh Lord, -[5320.12 --> 5321.22] will you forget me forever? -[5322.42 --> 5323.94] We pray for the tears -[5323.94 --> 5326.58] that spill in sorrow -[5326.58 --> 5327.82] and the tears -[5327.82 --> 5328.92] that spill in joy. -[5330.36 --> 5331.06] And we pray, -[5331.18 --> 5331.54] Lord God, -[5331.60 --> 5333.22] that we all together -[5333.22 --> 5334.30] would remember -[5334.30 --> 5336.34] that we are brothers -[5336.34 --> 5337.22] and sisters, -[5337.22 --> 5339.32] that we are heirs of God -[5339.32 --> 5340.70] and co-heirs with Christ -[5340.70 --> 5341.60] and that by the power -[5341.60 --> 5342.50] of your Holy Spirit -[5342.50 --> 5344.06] in our transformation, -[5344.34 --> 5346.10] new covenant identity, -[5346.74 --> 5349.38] we belong to each other. -[5350.98 --> 5352.58] And so even as you promise -[5352.58 --> 5353.60] to go with us, -[5353.88 --> 5356.24] may we go with each other. -[5356.58 --> 5357.62] As ambassadors -[5357.62 --> 5359.08] of your reconciliation, -[5359.58 --> 5361.60] as signposts -[5361.60 --> 5362.86] of the covenant reality -[5362.86 --> 5366.00] that you have drawn us into. -[5368.18 --> 5369.18] And so, Lord God, -[5369.24 --> 5370.48] be near to us now. -[5372.58 --> 5374.12] Hold us and hear us, -[5374.22 --> 5374.58] we pray, -[5375.04 --> 5377.52] in Jesus' name alone. -[5378.60 --> 5378.92] Amen. -[5378.92 --> 5379.06] Amen. -[5380.36 --> 5381.00] Amen. -[5381.00 --> 5381.46] Amen. -[5381.46 --> 5382.04] Amen. -[5390.22 --> 5391.78] Amen. -[5392.46 --> 5392.70] Amen. -[5392.70 --> 5393.36] Amen. -[5394.22 --> 5394.96] Amen. -[5399.10 --> 5399.48] Amen. -[5399.48 --> 5399.68] Amen. -[5399.74 --> 5400.28] Amen. -[5400.28 --> 5400.46] Amen. -[5400.52 --> 5400.86] Amen. -[5400.86 --> 5401.24] Amen. -[5401.48 --> 5403.10] Amen. -[5403.10 --> 5403.84] Amen. -[5403.84 --> 5404.48] Amen. -[5404.48 --> 5404.90] Amen. -[5405.04 --> 5406.50] Amen. -[5406.50 --> 5407.02] Yay. -[5407.06 --> 5407.74] Amen. -[5407.74 --> 5407.78] Amen. -[5407.78 --> 5408.14] Amen. -[5408.14 --> 5408.44] Amen. -[5408.44 --> 5422.44] brought me -[5427.32 --> 5436.44] i'm a child -[5438.44 --> 5450.84] has -[5458.84 --> 5464.06] time -[5464.28 --> 5466.12] me -[5468.44 --> 5474.22] I'm a child of God, yes I am. -[5475.22 --> 5484.38] In my Father's house, there's a place for me. -[5485.22 --> 5492.20] I'm a child of God, yes I am. -[5492.20 --> 5502.44] I am chosen, not forsaken, I am who you say I am. -[5503.14 --> 5511.44] You are for me, not against me, I am who you say I am. -[5512.24 --> 5520.62] I am chosen, not forsaken, I am who you say I am. -[5520.62 --> 5530.00] You are for me, not against me, I am who you say I am. -[5530.86 --> 5534.62] I am who you say I am. -[5535.62 --> 5543.90] Blessed are the sons and free, holy spirit indeed. -[5543.90 --> 5551.52] I'm a child of God, yes I am. -[5553.28 --> 5562.20] In my Father's house, there's a place for me. -[5562.20 --> 5570.36] I'm a child of God, yes I am. -[5571.58 --> 5580.70] In my Father's house, there's a place for me. -[5580.70 --> 5589.68] I'm a child of God, yes I am. -[5592.76 --> 5598.30] You may have a seat. -[5598.30 --> 5606.22] We're going to come to the table of our Lord. -[5607.36 --> 5615.30] Our Lord Jesus instituted this supper when the disciples had gathered to celebrate Passover. -[5616.10 --> 5620.32] If you know about the Jewish tradition and the Jewish context of that meal, -[5620.32 --> 5623.24] the Passover is a family meal. -[5624.20 --> 5628.90] It's an opportunity for a family of multiple generations to come together, -[5629.30 --> 5634.32] although with a biological link, and to remember the Exodus. -[5635.34 --> 5639.78] The Lord's Supper is also a family meal. -[5640.64 --> 5642.52] But our definition of family has changed. -[5642.52 --> 5648.78] By the grace of Jesus, our definition of family is not based on our blood or DNA, -[5649.08 --> 5651.12] but on Jesus' blood. -[5652.08 --> 5655.18] And so we gather together as a church family now -[5655.18 --> 5658.02] to come to the table of our Lord Jesus, -[5658.46 --> 5661.04] to be welcomed in his presence, -[5661.52 --> 5664.88] to have his grace made tasteable, -[5665.68 --> 5668.20] that we might hold him in our midst. -[5668.20 --> 5673.74] At his last supper, the Lord Jesus took bread, -[5674.40 --> 5677.42] and when he had given thanks, he broke it, -[5677.66 --> 5678.04] and he said, -[5678.40 --> 5680.94] this is my body, which is for you. -[5681.64 --> 5684.32] Do this in remembrance of me. -[5686.38 --> 5689.66] In the same way, after supper, -[5690.22 --> 5692.48] he took the cup and said, -[5692.98 --> 5696.46] this cup is the new covenant in my blood. -[5696.46 --> 5700.16] Do this in remembrance of me. -[5700.78 --> 5703.68] For whenever we eat this bread and drink this cup, -[5703.82 --> 5708.88] we proclaim the Lord's death until he comes again. -[5710.74 --> 5714.18] Therefore, we proclaim our faith -[5714.18 --> 5719.70] as signed and sealed in this sacrament. -[5719.70 --> 5724.12] Christ has risen. -[5724.88 --> 5726.16] Christ will come again. -[5727.78 --> 5728.72] Church family, -[5729.56 --> 5732.04] the Lord has prepared his table -[5732.04 --> 5734.00] for all who love him -[5734.00 --> 5737.58] and who trust in him alone for their salvation. -[5737.98 --> 5740.04] If you are truly sorry for your sins, -[5740.14 --> 5744.60] if you sincerely believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as your Savior, -[5744.60 --> 5747.78] and you desire to live in obedience to him, -[5747.98 --> 5749.30] whether you are here, present, -[5749.42 --> 5751.38] or participating online, -[5751.58 --> 5754.54] you are now invited to come with gladness -[5754.54 --> 5756.88] to the table of the Lord. -[5757.96 --> 5759.12] The gifts of God -[5759.12 --> 5761.74] for the people of God. -[5762.56 --> 5763.74] I'd like to invite the elders forward. -[5763.74 --> 5768.12] For the people of God -[5768.12 --> 5769.12] by the Lord -[5769.12 --> 5770.12] Amen. -[5799.12 --> 5801.12] Amen. -[5829.12 --> 5831.12] Amen. -[5859.12 --> 5861.12] Amen. -[5889.12 --> 5891.12] Amen. -[5919.12 --> 5920.12] Amen. -[5920.12 --> 5921.12] Amen. -[5925.14 --> 5925.80] Amen. -[5929.80 --> 5930.80] Amen. -[5930.80 --> 5931.24] Amen. -[5939.24 --> 5942.46] The body of Christ given for you. -[5943.06 --> 5947.92] And so take, eat, remember and believe that the body of our Lord Jesus Christ was given -[5947.92 --> 5951.58] for the complete forgiveness of all our sins. -[5977.92 --> 6002.16] Do not wait for me to draw near to you, -[6002.16 --> 6006.90] but you put yourself in frail humility. -[6007.92 --> 6016.30] Do not wait for me to cry out to you, -[6016.80 --> 6022.10] but you let me hear your voice calling me, -[6022.10 --> 6028.44] and I'm forever grateful to you. -[6029.66 --> 6036.56] I'm forever grateful to the cross, -[6036.56 --> 6043.94] I'm forever grateful to you. -[6043.94 --> 6073.94] -[6073.94 --> 6082.32] To cry out to you, but you let me hear your voice calling me, -[6082.32 --> 6089.70] and I'm forever grateful to you. -[6089.70 --> 6098.08] I'm forever grateful to you. -[6098.08 --> 6105.46] I'm forever grateful to you. -[6105.46 --> 6112.84] I'm forever grateful to you. -[6112.84 --> 6121.22] I'm forever grateful to you. -[6121.22 --> 6128.22] I'm forever grateful to you. -[6128.22 --> 6136.60] I'm forever grateful to you. -[6136.60 --> 6147.98] God, you came to seek and save the lost. -[6147.98 --> 6155.36] I'm forever grateful to you. -[6155.36 --> 6169.36] I'm forever grateful to you, -[6169.36 --> 6177.74] God, you're forever grateful to you. -[6177.74 --> 6181.86] for the complete forgiveness of all our sins. -[6181.86 --> 6195.40] Amen. -[6195.40 --> 6199.20] Once again, as you're able, I'm going to invite you to stand. -[6199.20 --> 6201.78] We're going to respond in prayer, -[6201.78 --> 6206.06] and then we will receive our parting blessing, -[6206.58 --> 6208.74] after which we will sing one more song. -[6209.40 --> 6210.52] Following our final song, -[6210.64 --> 6213.50] everyone is invited to gather in the back for a time of fellowship. -[6213.70 --> 6215.12] I encourage you to stick around for that, -[6215.24 --> 6217.52] share life and story with each other. -[6217.98 --> 6220.58] Perhaps take the vulnerable risk -[6220.58 --> 6223.08] of talking to someone you've never talked to before. -[6223.08 --> 6227.92] Try someone new in this family that we call church. -[6228.76 --> 6230.52] Let's pray together. -[6233.96 --> 6239.46] Loving God, we thank you that you have fed us in this sacrament, -[6240.90 --> 6244.80] that by it you have united us with Christ and with each other, -[6245.36 --> 6249.34] and that here you have given us a foretaste of the heavenly banquet -[6249.34 --> 6252.26] in your eternal kingdom to come. -[6253.08 --> 6257.74] Send us out in the power of your spirit to live and to work -[6257.74 --> 6263.20] to your praise and glory for the sake of Jesus Christ alone, -[6264.10 --> 6265.24] in whose name we pray. -[6266.06 --> 6266.46] Amen. -[6268.42 --> 6271.86] Standing together, receive the blessing of our God. -[6273.04 --> 6275.30] May God go before you to lead you. -[6276.10 --> 6278.34] May God go behind you to guard you. -[6278.68 --> 6280.94] May God go beneath you to support you. -[6280.94 --> 6284.22] And may God go beside you to befriend you. -[6284.58 --> 6286.46] Do not be afraid. -[6287.04 --> 6289.06] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[6289.18 --> 6290.76] Do not be afraid, -[6291.16 --> 6295.78] but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[6297.06 --> 6297.70] Amen. -[6297.70 --> 6316.68] Thank you. -[6316.68 --> 6331.90] From everlasting to everlasting you are gone. -[6331.90 --> 6347.82] From everlasting to everlasting you are gone. -[6347.82 --> 6355.54] In holiness you stand secure through culture shifting sands. -[6355.54 --> 6362.36] And change my own amenities of man. -[6363.58 --> 6370.22] And as the nations rise and fall your sovereignty remains. -[6370.22 --> 6383.22] You are, you are, you are the one true God. -[6385.54 --> 6398.30] From everlasting to everlasting you are gone. -[6398.30 --> 6413.30] From everlasting to everlasting you are gone. -[6413.30 --> 6421.34] In faithfulness your love extends through times of turbulence. -[6421.34 --> 6428.54] Adopting those who call upon your name. -[6428.54 --> 6436.26] And every generation joins in songs of grateful praise. -[6437.14 --> 6449.54] You are, you are, you are the one true God. -[6449.54 --> 6463.54] From everlasting to everlasting you are gone. -[6463.54 --> 6478.54] Everlasting to everlasting you are gone. -[6478.54 --> 6493.54] Eternal, immortal, invisible God. -[6493.54 --> 6508.54] Eternal, immortal, invisible God. -[6508.54 --> 6514.54] Eternal, immortal, invisible God. -[6514.54 --> 6521.54] Eternal, immortal, invisible God. -[6521.54 --> 6523.54] God -[6523.54 --> 6527.54] eternal -[6527.54 --> 6531.54] eternal -[6531.54 --> 6535.54] invisible -[6535.54 --> 6539.54] God -[6539.54 --> 6541.54] You -[6541.54 --> 6543.54] are -[6543.54 --> 6545.54] God -[6545.54 --> 6549.54] You -[6549.54 --> 6551.54] are -[6551.54 --> 6553.54] God -[6553.54 --> 6555.54] You -[6555.54 --> 6557.54] are -[6557.54 --> 6559.54] God -[6559.54 --> 6561.54] You -[6561.54 --> 6563.54] are -[6563.54 --> 6565.54] God -[6565.54 --> 6567.54] You -[6567.54 --> 6569.54] are -[6569.54 --> 6571.54] God -[6571.54 --> 6573.54] God -[6573.54 --> 6575.54] God -[6575.54 --> 6577.54] God -[6577.54 --> 6579.54] God -[6579.54 --> 6581.54] God -[6581.54 --> 6583.54] God -[6583.54 --> 6585.54] God -[6585.54 --> 6587.54] God -[6587.54 --> 6589.54] God -[6589.54 --> 6591.54] God -[6591.54 --> 6593.54] Father -[6593.54 --> 6595.54] God -[6595.54 --> 6597.54] God -[6597.54 --> 6599.54] God -[6599.54 --> 6601.54] God -[6601.54 --> 6603.54] God -[6603.54 --> 6605.54] God -[6605.54 --> 6635.52] Thank you. -[6635.54 --> 6665.52] Thank you. -[6665.54 --> 6695.52] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - December 11, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - December 11, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index df785f984fe3cf34a358af729876f4f1c02203af..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - December 11, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,131 +0,0 @@ -• Christmas worship service -• Song lyrics referencing Jesus as the King of kings and Lord of lords -• Discussion of sin and shame in the world -• Reference to Jesus bridging the divide between God and humanity -• Announcements for a choir performance and traditional hymn-sing on December 18 -• Upcoming Christmas event on December 18 with choirs, hymns, and carols -• Page-turner needed for the event, requires ability to read music -• Announcements: Spring Mexico team mission trip in March, open to grades 10 and up; Dressember fundraising campaign -• Opportunity to partner with Trinity Western University and provide a family-style meal for their international students on Christmas Day -• Need for transportation solutions and volunteers to help serve the meal -• Waiting for the return of the King and living in anticipation -• The voice of competing affections and the call to prioritize love for God -• The role of patience and endurance in waiting for God's return -• The light of Jesus as a beacon in darkness -• Living beneath the sound of joy and experiencing God's love -• Praising God's glory, mercy, and redeeming love -• Expressing awe at the richness and purity of God's love -• Worshiping God through church rhythms and studying the Bible -• Struggling to keep God first in life during Christmas and year-round -• Celebrating Advent and Christmas with mixed emotions -• Reflecting on the story of Jesus' birth and sacrifice -• Praising God's love and redemption through song -• Acknowledging the journey towards spiritual homecoming -• Introduction to the sacrament of baptism and its significance -• The difference between the water used in baptism and magical or superstitious practices -• The concept of covenant children and the importance of baptizing infants -• The history of circumcision as a sign of God's promise to Abraham -• The purpose of baptism, including cleansing from sin and adoption into Christ's family -• Questions for parents presenting their child for baptism -• Parents' promise to raise their child in the Christian faith -• Baptism of Theo -• Promises made by parents and church family to support and love Theo -• Church congregation's response to promises, promising to love and support Theo -• Blessing and prayer for Theo's journey of faith -• Gift-giving ceremony to commemorate the occasion -• Singing of hymns -• Discussion of boasting in Jesus Christ and His death/resurrection -• Explanation of "reverse offering" during the Christmas season to bless those struggling -• Hymn performance: "Christ our King" -• Children's discussion on hearing vs. listening, including comparison of human hearing abilities to other animals -• List of top "listening" animals, including donkeys and dolphins -• Introduction to a worship time in children's church -• Prayer and thanksgiving for blessings, teachers, and the opportunity to learn about God's word -• Announcement of new grandparents and birth of a child -• Morning prayer led by Sam, including: - • Thanking God for the gift of Jesus Christ - • Praying for those who do not acknowledge him as their savior - • Mentioning specific individuals recovering from illness or surgery - • Asking for healing and restoration in relationships and marriages - • Requesting God's peace to transcend all understanding -• Celebrating a baptism and asking for wisdom for parents -• Asking for anointing of Pastor Chris for his sermon and for guidance for the congregation -• Discussion of the Advent and Christmas season -• Reading from Revelation 7, specifically verses 1-7 -• Comparison with the book of Ephesians -• Analysis of the letter to the church in Ephesus -• Reference to family devotions at home using a devotional book and an Advent wreath -• Advent as a season of excitement and waning interest -• The pattern of human emotions, such as excitement, apathy, grief, and despair, in relation to the return of Christ -• The importance of anticipating Christ's return in hope and rejoicing, even in times of difficulty or doubt -• Living with patient endurance and faith through the power of God's Spirit -• Holding on to the love that holds us and living it boldly until Christ's return -• Locations of the churches mentioned (Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, Laodicea) are in modern-day Turkey -• The letter to the church at Ephesus starts out with praise from Jesus for their hard work and perseverance -• However, Jesus then criticizes the church for "forsaking" something -• The meaning of "forsaken" is a strong word that can mean to send away or divorce -• A possible interpretation is that they allowed secondary things to become primary things -• Another possibility is that they forgot to love God and prioritize loving Jesus -• However, the speaker suggests that the criticism may be stronger than just allowing secondary things to become primary -• The book of Ephesians is a letter written by Paul to the Ephesian church, which he planted on his missionary journey. -• The letter highlights the gospel and its application to everyday life, including marriage relationships, households, and business. -• A key theme in Ephesians is loving God's people and understanding one's identity as part of the bride of Christ. -• The church's love for all God's people is noted by Paul as a reason for his thanks and prayers. -• The letter emphasizes the importance of living out the gospel in practical ways. -• The biblical passage from Ephesians 2:11-22 is discussed -• The distinction between Jews and Gentiles in the ancient world is explained -• Paul's discussion on the inclusion of Gentiles in God's covenant is analyzed -• The theological foundation for church unity is identified as the inclusion of all people, regardless of ethnicity or background -• The passage's relevance to modern churches is discussed -• Diversity and unity within the church -• Transcending national, racial, and ethnic identities to be a Christian -• Heavenly citizenship and love for all believers -• Paul's prayers for unity and knowledge of God's love -• Connection between Christ's love for his bride (the church) and the love of unity within the church -• Effort to keep the unity of the spirit through the bond of peace -• The unity of God's church is an example of the oneness of God himself. -• If one loves God, they will love his diverse and multicultural church. -• Love for Jesus requires advancing the unified mission of the body of believers with him. -• The love of God and his church cannot be divorced, as Jesus is the bridegroom to the church. -• Revelation mentions a warning against forsaking the love of the body of Christ. -• The unity of the church is both internal and local, but also transcendentally and universally expressed across all times and places. -• The speaker warns that professing to love Jesus but not actively pursuing unity in the church is a form of hypocrisy. -• This type of behavior can lead to disunity and contributes to the problems within the church. -• A key verse, Revelation 2:6, speaks of hating the practices of the Nicolaitans, which Jesus also hates. -• The Nicolaitans are a group or teaching that allowed for the consumption of meat sacrificed to idols, leading to licentious behavior. -• Bible scholars disagree on who or what the Nicolaitans were, but agree on the nature of their teachings. -• The Nicolaitans were a group that abandoned themselves to pleasure and self-indulgence -• Clement of Alexandria wrote about the Nicolaitans, comparing them to goats that eat whatever they can find -• The Nicolaitans' sin was not just their own actions, but also encouraging others to do the same -• Eating meat sacrificed to idols is a lesser concern than the issue of enticement away from truth and driving people into sin -• Jesus hates the Nicolaitans because they break the unity of his bride (the church) -• Self-indulgence divides the church -• Living in anticipation of Christ's return invites patience, endurance, and faithfulness -• The church is called to live boldly with love that holds on to its members, pursuing unity and celebrating diversity as a reflection of God's kingdom. -• The purpose of gathering around the table is to feed, fuel, and unite those present -• Baptism promises and God's word are recalled as reasons for coming together -• A liturgy will be followed in which responsive portions on the screen behind the speaker will be spoken -• Praise and thanksgiving will be given to God through prayer and hymns -• The Lord's Supper is a memorial of Jesus' sacrifice until he comes again, and is done in remembrance of him -• Inviting people to come to the Lord's table, regardless of their faith level or past experiences -• Explaining the process for receiving communion at the Lord's Supper service -• Offering prayer or connection with someone before coming up to the table -• Introducing the worship leaders and elders who will serve first and lead the congregation in song -• Eucharistic prayers and hymns -• Praise to God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit -• Worship and adoration of Jesus Christ -• Celebration of Christmas and new life -• Calls to praise and worship -• Thanksgiving and gratitude -• Praises to God's name and glory -• Praising God and glorifying His name -• Expressions of worship and adoration -• The Lord is King and rules forever -• Christ's kingdom cannot fail -• Jesus' return as judge to gather saints -• Appreciation for Sylvia's service as church administrator -• Reminder to fulfill budget obligations for the year -• A person named Sylvia is given a new fishing rod as a retirement gift and makes vows to take care of it -• Discussion about a bowling ball with Homer Simpson's name on it, potentially given to Marge -• Staff members thank Sylvia and invite her to stay for cake and personal interaction -• A blessing is given by someone speaking on behalf of God \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - December 11, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - December 11, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0c2b5ccb081dea033612eace2b5d534e4eeab583..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - December 11, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2173 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 13.64] In the bleak midwinter, all creation groans -[13.64 --> 20.16] For a world in darkness, frozen like a stone -[20.16 --> 26.56] Light is breaking, in a stable for a throne -[26.56 --> 33.70] If I were a wise man, I would travel far -[33.70 --> 40.48] If I were a shepherd, I would do my part -[40.48 --> 46.82] For as I am, I would give to Him my heart -[46.82 --> 53.60] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore -[53.60 --> 60.74] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore -[60.74 --> 67.88] Unto us, a child is born, the King of kings, the Lord of lords -[67.88 --> 75.02] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore -[75.02 --> 78.02] Here within the manger lies -[78.02 --> 81.52] The one who builds the starry skies -[81.52 --> 85.02] This baby born for sacrifice -[85.02 --> 88.02] Christ our Messiah -[88.02 --> 91.16] To our hopes and to our fears -[91.16 --> 94.16] The Savior of the world appears -[94.16 --> 98.16] The promise of eternal years -[98.16 --> 101.16] Christ our Messiah -[101.16 --> 107.30] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore -[107.30 --> 114.30] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore -[114.30 --> 127.44] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore -[127.44 --> 129.44] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore -[129.44 --> 133.44] A child is born, the King of kings, the Lord of lords -[133.44 --> 140.58] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore -[140.58 --> 146.58] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore -[146.58 --> 155.72] He shall reign forevermore, forevermore -[155.72 --> 159.72] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore -[159.72 --> 160.86] And He shall reign forever, forevermore -[160.86 --> 161.86] And He shall reign forever, forevermore -[161.86 --> 166.86] And He shall reign forever, forevermore -[166.86 --> 186.02] From highest height of heaven's throne -[186.02 --> 191.16] And perfect light of majesty -[191.16 --> 196.16] This broken world became your home -[196.16 --> 201.16] Our broken lives you came to heal -[201.16 --> 206.16] Salvation in your name -[206.16 --> 210.16] And in your heart our freedom -[210.16 --> 215.30] How could we not adore -[215.30 --> 217.30] How could we not adore -[217.30 --> 220.30] To us you have been born -[220.30 --> 224.30] To us you have been given -[224.30 --> 230.30] Glory to you in the highest -[230.30 --> 233.98] The hope of all the earth -[233.98 --> 237.72] The highest name of heaven -[237.72 --> 243.86] Glory to you in the highest -[243.86 --> 247.86] Glory to you -[247.86 --> 248.86] Glory to you -[248.86 --> 252.86] Glory in the highest -[252.86 --> 258.86] Into the night -[258.86 --> 262.16] Into the fray -[262.16 --> 264.74] Struggle and war -[264.74 --> 266.88] On every side -[266.88 --> 269.88] Into a world -[269.88 --> 271.88] Of sin and shame -[271.88 --> 274.88] You came to bridge -[274.88 --> 276.88] The great divide -[276.88 --> 279.88] The prince of peace -[279.88 --> 282.88] And lord of life -[282.88 --> 287.88] A day of grace has come -[287.88 --> 290.88] The dawn of our redemption -[290.88 --> 295.02] Oh let every heart -[295.02 --> 296.02] And Lord -[296.02 --> 301.02] To us you have been born -[301.02 --> 305.02] To us you have been given -[305.02 --> 311.02] Glory to you in the highest -[311.02 --> 315.02] The hope of all the earth -[315.02 --> 319.16] The highest name of heaven -[319.16 --> 325.16] Glory to you in the highest -[325.16 --> 329.16] Glory to you -[329.16 --> 334.16] Glory in the highest -[334.16 --> 339.30] Salvation in your name -[339.30 --> 343.30] And in your heart our freedom -[343.30 --> 346.50] Sing hallelujah -[346.50 --> 349.30] Hallelujah -[349.30 --> 353.30] A day of grace has come -[353.30 --> 356.36] The dawn of our redemption -[356.36 --> 360.16] Sing hallelujah -[360.16 --> 364.30] Glory to us you have been born -[364.30 --> 366.30] To us you have been born -[366.30 --> 370.30] To us you have been given -[370.30 --> 376.30] Glory to you in the highest -[376.30 --> 380.30] The hope of all the earth -[380.30 --> 384.30] And the highest name of heaven -[384.30 --> 388.30] Glory to you in the highest -[388.30 --> 392.44] Glory to you in the highest -[392.44 --> 396.04] Glory to you in the highest -[396.04 --> 398.04] Glory to you in the highest -[398.04 --> 401.14] Glory to your... -[401.14 --> 406.50] Glory in the highest -[406.50 --> 414.44] Oh, come let us adore you -[414.44 --> 421.40] Oh, come let us adore Him. -[421.70 --> 425.54] Oh, come let us adore Him. -[444.44 --> 454.66] We are grateful that you are here and that we can get together. -[455.16 --> 457.72] My name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors here. -[457.72 --> 464.60] And it's my privilege, along with a few others, to lead in our shared worship together this morning. -[465.36 --> 469.92] God is good, and we have a lot going on in our worship this morning, -[469.92 --> 474.58] from Lord's Supper and baptism and celebrations of individual service. -[475.14 --> 482.10] And so we're grateful for the chance to see God at work in so many ways in our midst -[482.10 --> 492.66] and to participate in that and to long for Him to do more among us, with us, and through us to the world. -[493.48 --> 497.36] Before we begin our worship in earnest, there's just a couple announcements. -[497.36 --> 500.48] Kevin has two, so I'm going to invite him to the front. -[500.58 --> 501.64] The microphone's over here. -[502.28 --> 508.92] He can get ready, and while he's on his way over, just a reminder that next week, Sunday evening, -[509.40 --> 521.00] so December 18 at 6 p.m., we are hosting a choir performance and traditional hymn-sing and caroling here at Emanuel. -[521.00 --> 527.10] And so we encourage you to come to invite your family, friends, or neighbors and join us for that. -[527.10 --> 527.88] We'll have choirs. -[528.02 --> 528.82] We have kids' choirs. -[528.98 --> 535.80] We have hymns and carols to sing, and it should be a beautiful evening together, December 18 at 6 p.m. -[536.94 --> 539.88] A reminder, there's practices for that this coming week. -[540.00 --> 542.18] You know the schedule if you are involved in that. -[542.72 --> 550.50] And you may have seen in the e-bulletin that went out that Mark, who is the director, is looking for a page-turner. -[551.18 --> 556.10] And so that's someone who can read music and turn the pages as they move through. -[556.28 --> 560.16] So the stipulation there is that you know how to read music at least decently well. -[561.44 --> 565.32] Otherwise, it'll devolve into chaos very quickly, I imagine. -[566.80 --> 568.22] Oh, you don't even have to read music. -[568.54 --> 570.06] You just have to listen to Mark when he says, now. -[570.06 --> 570.12] Now. -[574.12 --> 575.22] Ken will nod his head. -[575.22 --> 575.50] See? -[575.76 --> 578.02] There's a system for everything that I know nothing about. -[579.26 --> 592.34] Anyways, if you are willing to be a page-turner, which apparently takes no skill now, please talk to Mark following our worship together this morning, and he will give you those details. -[593.16 --> 593.52] Go ahead. -[593.52 --> 598.10] I have two brief announcements, and this microphone's really loud. -[598.54 --> 606.88] The first is for anyone who wants to join the Spring Mexico team to head down to Tijuana on a missions trip in March. -[606.94 --> 611.22] It'll happen over spring break, and this trip is open to anybody grades 10 and up. -[611.60 --> 612.66] Not to grades 12. -[612.92 --> 615.34] Grades 10 to, like, ever. -[615.68 --> 619.34] So if you want to go on this trip, you can sign up in the back. -[619.34 --> 622.12] I think it's around the Connect booth or on the table back there. -[622.12 --> 623.72] Please find that sheet. -[623.78 --> 626.34] We would love to get a number of people out for that. -[626.94 --> 631.24] And same thing, high school students, your grade 10 and older, you're welcome to join that trip as well. -[631.30 --> 632.50] So please consider doing that. -[633.00 --> 638.80] If you want more information, you can chat with me after the service or find Brandon Muller, who's not here today, which is why I'm doing this announcement. -[638.92 --> 642.10] But you can talk to Brandon Muller as well, and he can give you more information on that too. -[642.60 --> 646.00] Second announcement is for all of those participating in Dressember. -[646.18 --> 651.44] If you're wearing a tie or a dress today, oh, I got my nice old school hockey tie on. -[651.44 --> 652.70] Pastor Chris has his on here. -[652.74 --> 653.30] He looks sharp. -[653.84 --> 656.50] If you're doing that tomorrow, we're doing another fundraising blast. -[656.66 --> 660.52] So whoever raises the most money tomorrow, if you're on that team, you get a $10 gift card. -[660.98 --> 662.62] We're going to be doing those every Monday as well. -[662.78 --> 665.88] If you don't know what Dressember is, it's because you're not on social media. -[666.04 --> 668.22] So you should join that and follow along with that. -[668.44 --> 674.28] Again, you can come talk to me or Samara Isenga or Pastor Chris or anybody who's on that team to hear more about that. -[674.56 --> 678.50] So if you see someone wearing a tie or a dress today, give them an ask and see what's going on. -[678.74 --> 678.98] Thanks. -[681.44 --> 685.32] A bunch of people wearing dresses just went, uh-oh. -[688.58 --> 690.10] One last announcement. -[690.42 --> 696.46] You may have seen it in the e-bulletin that goes out, but we have a really unique opportunity this year -[696.46 --> 702.12] to partner with Trinity Western University and their global education program -[702.12 --> 707.52] and many of their international students who are not able to go home during the Christmas holidays. -[707.52 --> 711.22] And so a number of them have chosen to stay on campus. -[711.34 --> 714.46] In fact, the list of students staying on campus is about 130. -[715.70 --> 720.24] And they have been invited to join us for Christmas Day worship. -[720.24 --> 727.50] And then our hope in prayer is to provide a family-style meal for them after our worship on Christmas Day -[727.50 --> 732.02] so that they can have a bit of experience of home and family and hear the gospel, -[732.18 --> 736.16] maybe even for the first time, proclaimed in a church community. -[736.16 --> 740.92] And so if that's something that you are interested in or able to help with, -[740.92 --> 747.54] we will be looking for people to help make a meal, to help serve and share that meal on Christmas Day -[747.54 --> 748.98] after our worship together. -[749.68 --> 752.70] And we will be looking for transportation solutions. -[753.22 --> 754.72] We want to get our hands on a shuttle. -[754.72 --> 759.96] And so if you either know of a shuttle, have a shuttle, or are licensed to drive a shuttle, -[760.18 --> 764.42] I am particularly interested in hearing from you this morning to solve that problem. -[764.86 --> 771.20] So this is a really neat opportunity, and I'm grateful that TWU reached out to us for that -[771.20 --> 774.82] and that we can serve that community in this way. -[775.36 --> 779.00] If that's something you're interested in, grab me after service together. -[779.00 --> 786.30] Let's stand, and we will come to God in worship, song, prayer, and word together. -[791.08 --> 796.22] Immediately following God's greeting, I'm going to invite those who are coming up to do the candles -[796.22 --> 797.66] to do that on their own. -[798.72 --> 802.88] In the presence of God, open your heart to receive his greeting. -[804.20 --> 807.74] Grace, mercy, and peace to you. -[807.74 --> 812.38] From God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, Son, and our Savior, -[812.80 --> 817.82] whose coming we await through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[818.78 --> 819.18] Amen. -[837.74 --> 846.22] Advent is a season of waiting, waiting for the light and darkness, waiting to be filled while empty, -[846.46 --> 847.62] waiting for the return of the King. -[849.92 --> 853.76] The question has always been, who or what will you love most? -[854.16 --> 857.62] This world is full of competing affections that demand our attentions. -[858.14 --> 860.48] From the very beginning, it has always been this way. -[860.48 --> 866.52] And yet God, who is love, has shown us true love and is calling us to a better living in love. -[867.02 --> 869.68] There are so many voices saying, this is love. -[869.90 --> 875.46] But we submit our hearts and minds to God, the creator and sustainer, who alone can tell us. -[875.46 --> 883.14] Living in anticipation of the return of the King invites us to be a people of patient endurance and faith, -[883.40 --> 888.16] who can live rejoicing in the world to come, and with deep joy in the world that is, -[888.74 --> 892.16] holding on to the love that holds on to us, living it boldly. -[892.72 --> 896.30] We light this candle as a reminder of the love of God for his people, -[896.64 --> 899.30] and the love we share that changes the world as we wait. -[899.30 --> 911.58] The voice of the world is loud, the darkness is deep. -[911.72 --> 915.00] Into the chaos and confusion, Jesus speaks the clarin call. -[915.42 --> 917.88] I am the light of the world, you will be a light to the world. -[929.30 --> 959.28] I am the light of the world, you will be a light to the world. -[959.28 --> 989.26] I am the light of the world, you will be a light to the world. -[989.28 --> 1019.26] I am the light of the world. -[1019.26 --> 1029.36] May you the sound of joy, may you live beneath the sound of joy. -[1029.36 --> 1059.34] May you the sound of joy, may you live beneath the sound of joy. -[1059.36 --> 1072.36] He rules the world with love and peace, and makes the nations prove. -[1073.86 --> 1087.36] My glory is love, is not just a sense, and my mercy is love, and my mercy is love. -[1087.36 --> 1105.36] May you the sound of joy, may you live beneath the sound of joy. -[1105.36 --> 1111.36] May you the sound of joy, may you live beneath the sound of joy. -[1111.36 --> 1117.36] May you the sound of joy, may you live beneath the sound of joy. -[1117.36 --> 1123.36] May you the sound of joy, may you live beneath the sound of joy. -[1123.36 --> 1137.36] May you the sound of joy, may you live beneath the sound of joy. -[1137.36 --> 1143.36] May you the sound of joy, may you live beneath the sound of joy. -[1143.36 --> 1157.36] May you the sound of joy, may you live beneath the sound of joy. -[1157.36 --> 1163.36] May you the sound of joy, may you live beneath the sound of joy. -[1163.36 --> 1169.36] May you the sound of joy, may you live beneath the sound of joy. -[1170.36 --> 1171.36] May you will receive drop the sound of joy. -[1171.36 --> 1173.36] May you have a sound of joy, may you live beneath the sound of joy. -[1173.36 --> 1175.36] May you live beneath the sound of joy. -[1175.36 --> 1177.36] May you see yourOLLine sound of joy, may you live beneath the sound of joy. -[1177.36 --> 1178.36] May yousafe hathеничесvel day倒, assume a sign of joy. -[1178.36 --> 1183.54] God gave this song to win -[1183.54 --> 1187.36] His erring trust He runs down -[1188.00 --> 1192.40] And find it how He's saved -[1192.40 --> 1196.36] O Lord and God, how it shall come -[1196.88 --> 1201.36] How measureless and strong -[1201.36 --> 1205.04] It shall forever, forever -[1205.04 --> 1209.36] Be saints and angels -[1209.36 --> 1216.94] When dreams of time shall pass your way -[1216.94 --> 1221.38] And earthly thrones and kingdoms fall -[1221.38 --> 1225.84] When man who yearly fears to break -[1225.84 --> 1230.24] On rocks and hills and mountains fall -[1230.24 --> 1234.32] God's cause of truth shall still endure -[1234.32 --> 1238.32] All measureless and strong -[1238.64 --> 1243.42] Redeeming grace to Adam's grace -[1243.42 --> 1247.32] The saints and angels sing -[1247.32 --> 1251.32] O Lord and God, how rich and pure -[1251.70 --> 1256.32] How measureless and strong -[1256.32 --> 1260.64] It shall forever, forevermore endure -[1260.64 --> 1262.64] The saints and angels sing -[1262.64 --> 1267.64] The saints and angels sing -[1267.64 --> 1271.64] Could we with thee the ocean fill -[1271.64 --> 1275.64] And were the skies of parchment paint -[1275.64 --> 1279.64] Were every stalk on earth a quill -[1279.64 --> 1283.64] And every man ascribed thy trade -[1283.64 --> 1287.96] To let the love of God -[1287.96 --> 1292.64] Would drain the ocean dry -[1292.64 --> 1296.64] Nor could the scroll contain the hope -[1296.64 --> 1300.64] Who spread from sky to sky -[1300.64 --> 1301.64] To time -[1301.64 --> 1302.64] O Lord and God, how rich and pure -[1302.64 --> 1305.64] O Lord and God, how rich and pure -[1305.64 --> 1307.64] How measureless and strong -[1307.64 --> 1309.64] It shall forever, forevermore endure -[1309.64 --> 1310.64] Than saints and angels sing -[1310.64 --> 1314.64] It shall forever, forevermore endure -[1314.64 --> 1319.64] The saints and angels sing -[1319.64 --> 1322.64] O Lord and God, how rich and pure -[1322.64 --> 1323.64] How measureless and strong -[1323.64 --> 1328.64] It shall forever, forevermore endure -[1328.64 --> 1338.08] Now forevermore endure the saints and angels are. -[1342.42 --> 1346.44] God, your love is so rich and pure. -[1347.20 --> 1349.34] It is measureless and strong. -[1349.74 --> 1354.06] Our words, they fall short of describing the wonders of your love, O Lord. -[1355.60 --> 1357.70] And yet we turn away. -[1358.64 --> 1361.12] How could we leave a love so rich? -[1361.52 --> 1366.30] How could we walk away from a God who gives of his only son to reconcile our sin? -[1367.04 --> 1368.42] We are here, aren't we? -[1368.42 --> 1370.20] We are here worshiping you, God. -[1370.54 --> 1374.14] We do the rhythms of church and worship and studying your word. -[1374.86 --> 1378.60] But the eyes of our heart land on other loves that are not you, God. -[1379.54 --> 1383.04] Sometimes we don't even notice until we are far from you. -[1383.04 --> 1392.18] As we celebrate Advent and Christmas and remembering your birth, Jesus, we sit in the tension of awaiting your second coming. -[1392.86 --> 1394.84] That tension is hard and messy. -[1395.76 --> 1400.22] Some of us embrace the festivities and live for the all-familiar Christmas carols. -[1400.84 --> 1404.08] Some of us turn to happy faces and only have tears in return. -[1404.08 --> 1407.42] Some of us don't bat an eye at the changing seasons. -[1408.10 --> 1417.70] All of us struggle to hold you first in our lives, above every other thing and person and life circumstance, during Christmas and year-round. -[1417.70 --> 1421.00] Captivate our hearts, God. -[1421.60 --> 1428.78] That when we come to you and see what you have done, we can do nothing but sing of the story of amazing love. -[1429.42 --> 1438.98] For you did give of your one and only Son, love incarnate, the Savior of humanity, born to suffer and to save, to raise us from our graves. -[1439.72 --> 1441.34] You shall reign forevermore. -[1441.84 --> 1444.48] To you be all praise, glory, and honor. -[1447.70 --> 1477.68] To you be all praise, glory, and honor. -[1477.70 --> 1479.98] Cleveland, and honor. -[1483.26 --> 1483.42] Vizep emo days to lodge the Lord. -[1483.42 --> 1487.34] O, the incarnate love divine. -[1488.92 --> 1493.16] Storm and angels gave the song. -[1495.28 --> 1499.26] Move to babe on bend anything. -[1500.98 --> 1504.56] My Savior of humanity. -[1504.56 --> 1512.62] To us a child is born -[1512.62 --> 1518.06] We shall be forever free -[1518.06 --> 1523.62] Noel, Noel -[1523.62 --> 1531.18] Come and see what God has done -[1531.18 --> 1536.24] Noel, Noel -[1536.24 --> 1543.22] The story of amazing love -[1543.22 --> 1546.68] The light of the world -[1546.68 --> 1550.22] Given for us -[1550.22 --> 1552.06] Noel -[1552.06 --> 1562.06] Son of God and Son of Man -[1562.58 --> 1568.06] There before the world began -[1568.06 --> 1574.06] Born to suffer, born to save -[1574.06 --> 1580.06] Born to raise us from the grave -[1580.06 --> 1586.06] Christ the everlasting Lord -[1586.06 --> 1592.06] He shall be forevermore -[1592.06 --> 1599.12] Noel, Noel -[1599.12 --> 1605.06] Come and see what God has done -[1605.06 --> 1611.06] Noel, Noel -[1611.06 --> 1617.06] A story of amazing love -[1617.06 --> 1620.06] The light of the world -[1620.06 --> 1623.06] Given for us -[1623.06 --> 1625.06] Noel -[1625.06 --> 1629.06] Come and see what God has done -[1629.06 --> 1631.06] Come and see what God has done -[1631.06 --> 1633.06] Come and see what God has done -[1633.06 --> 1635.06] From the world -[1635.06 --> 1636.06] And the light of the world -[1636.06 --> 1637.06] Will be forever -[1637.06 --> 1639.06] You will be forever -[1639.06 --> 1646.06] edo -[1657.08 --> 1662.46] no -[1662.46 --> 1662.96] in -[1662.96 --> 1670.70] Noel, come and see what God has done. -[1670.70 --> 1688.60] Noel, Noel, the story of amazing love, the light of the world given for God. -[1688.60 --> 1700.74] Noel, Noel, come and see what God has done. -[1700.74 --> 1717.74] Noel, Noel, the story of amazing love, the light of the world given for us. -[1718.60 --> 1725.60] Noel, the story of amazing love, the light of the world given for us. -[1725.60 --> 1733.60] Noel, the story of amazing love, the light of the world given for us. -[1733.60 --> 1735.60] Amen. -[1735.60 --> 1736.60] Amen. -[1736.60 --> 1738.60] Amen. -[1738.60 --> 1740.60] Amen. -[1740.60 --> 1742.60] Amen. -[1742.60 --> 1743.60] Amen. -[1743.60 --> 1744.60] Amen. -[1744.60 --> 1746.60] Amen. -[1746.60 --> 1747.60] Amen. -[1747.60 --> 1748.60] Amen. -[1748.60 --> 1749.60] Amen. -[1749.60 --> 1750.60] Amen. -[1750.60 --> 1752.10] Amen. -[1752.60 --> 1753.60] Amen. -[1753.60 --> 1754.60] Amen. -[1754.60 --> 1756.60] Amen. -[1756.60 --> 1757.60] Amen. -[1757.60 --> 1758.60] Amen. -[1758.60 --> 1760.60] Amen. -[1760.60 --> 1763.60] Amen. -[1763.60 --> 1764.60] Amen. -[1764.60 --> 1767.60] Amen. -[1767.60 --> 1768.60] Amen. -[1768.60 --> 1769.60] Amen. -[1769.60 --> 1770.60] Amen. -[1770.60 --> 1771.60] Amen. -[1771.60 --> 1771.90] Amen. -[1771.96 --> 1772.60] OnsingOOD. -[1772.60 --> 1780.20] From a single anchor we're almost home -[1780.20 --> 1786.02] Through every door of danger we're almost home -[1786.02 --> 1791.76] I'm thinking through saints now before us home -[1791.76 --> 1796.52] Stopping now we're almost home -[1796.52 --> 1803.32] This land is falling we're almost home -[1803.32 --> 1809.00] And lives here so grow that we're almost home -[1809.00 --> 1814.78] They crack in the other souls for the kingdom come -[1814.78 --> 1819.08] They turn in love we're almost home -[1819.08 --> 1825.68] We're almost home, we're almost home -[1825.68 --> 1829.12] So place on forth and bless you -[1829.12 --> 1834.48] Sure, praise the Lord we're almost home -[1834.48 --> 1843.86] This journey ours together we're almost home -[1843.86 --> 1849.60] And to that grave forever we're almost home -[1849.60 --> 1855.04] But sun will sink down and cloud be thrown -[1855.04 --> 1859.60] Can fade to heart we're almost home -[1859.60 --> 1866.32] We're almost home, we're almost home -[1866.32 --> 1871.76] So place on earth and bless you sure oh praise the Lord -[1871.76 --> 1879.20] We're almost home, we're almost home -[1879.20 --> 1884.48] This land is just a paper we're almost home -[1884.48 --> 1889.92] The sun is standing yonder we're almost home -[1889.92 --> 1895.92] Take courage for this darkness shall break to dawn -[1895.92 --> 1897.36] Oh, lift your eyes we're almost home -[1897.36 --> 1899.36] Oh, lift your eyes we're almost home -[1899.36 --> 1903.36] We're almost home, we're almost home -[1903.36 --> 1907.36] We're almost home, we're almost home -[1907.36 --> 1911.36] So place on tour and the blessed shore oh praise the Lord -[1911.36 --> 1924.80] We're almost home, we're almost home -[1924.80 --> 1936.24] We're almost home, we're almost home -[1936.24 --> 1937.28] Please be seated -[1937.28 --> 1959.52] Our great pleasure this morning in worship to administer and participate in the sacrament of baptism for one of our little children among us -[1959.52 --> 1970.48] Now we don't believe that there's anything inherently magical about the water that we apply to the child, right? -[1970.48 --> 1974.00] The water does not wash away original sin or save the child -[1974.00 --> 1980.40] We believe and know that only Jesus' life, death, resurrection, and exaltation will do that -[1980.40 --> 1988.80] And we believe that this child and the parents will profess is sinful by nature and from birth -[1988.80 --> 1999.28] And yet we believe that the promises of God for the forgiveness of sins and for life lived in the Holy Spirit are offered to him -[1999.28 --> 2008.08] And so we baptize infants not out of superstition or just because of tradition -[2008.08 --> 2012.16] Or really just because we like cute babies, although he is adorable -[2012.16 --> 2021.76] Right? We baptize infants because they are covenant children and therefore should receive the sign of the covenant -[2021.76 --> 2029.60] In Genesis 15, God made a covenant that is a special relationship of promise with Abraham -[2029.60 --> 2035.28] This covenant was sealed with the sign of circumcision in Genesis 17 -[2035.28 --> 2037.84] And God promised to bless Abraham -[2037.84 --> 2041.60] And for Abraham this meant two things in particular -[2041.60 --> 2045.92] It meant offspring, children, and it meant land -[2045.92 --> 2048.96] But at the heart of the covenant -[2048.96 --> 2055.60] Was God's promise that he would be a god to Abraham and his children -[2055.60 --> 2063.10] And so God cut a covenant into Israel's flesh carving out a people for himself -[2063.10 --> 2069.82] And he gave them a purpose to be a light on the path home for all humanity -[2069.82 --> 2073.74] Now fast forward through the drama of scripture -[2073.74 --> 2080.22] And in the fullness of time, God sent his son, Jesus, to be our savior -[2080.22 --> 2085.42] And in his death on the cross, our old self is dead and buried -[2085.42 --> 2092.46] And in his resurrection, we rise to a new life and we look forward to the new creation -[2092.46 --> 2098.78] And so when we baptize in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit -[2098.78 --> 2103.34] The triune God seals our adoption as his children -[2103.34 --> 2108.62] And he writes his name invisibly on our foreheads -[2108.62 --> 2116.46] He says, you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God -[2116.46 --> 2122.06] Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God -[2123.34 --> 2128.46] By baptism, we have a new identity in Christ -[2128.46 --> 2136.22] And so as a church, we come to administer the sacrament of baptism to Theo today -[2136.22 --> 2140.22] With the weight of church history to encourage us -[2140.22 --> 2144.78] The example of redemptive history to confirm our practice -[2144.78 --> 2149.50] We baptize in obedience to Christ's command -[2149.50 --> 2155.82] As we are about to administer the sacrament -[2155.82 --> 2160.54] And as the sign of inclusion in the covenant community as circumcision was -[2160.54 --> 2166.06] The water that we are about to sprinkle is a sign of cleansing from sin -[2166.06 --> 2170.54] As the sprinkled blood of bulls and goats in the Old Testament was -[2171.58 --> 2176.46] And we pray that Theo will take advantage of his covenant privileges -[2176.46 --> 2180.30] Acknowledging his Lord all the days of his life -[2180.30 --> 2184.70] And that one day, by faith, will make these promises his own -[2187.34 --> 2189.10] He already knows it's going to be a hard journey -[2191.90 --> 2195.58] Nathan and Maria, since you are presenting Theo for baptism -[2196.30 --> 2197.82] We ask you the following questions -[2197.82 --> 2200.06] I'm going to invite you to come with your family up to the front -[2200.38 --> 2202.14] And just find a space here -[2206.46 --> 2216.22] Just right here guys -[2220.78 --> 2224.54] So I'm going to ask you two questions and then at the end you can respond -[2224.54 --> 2226.22] We do with God's help -[2227.58 --> 2228.54] If in fact you do -[2229.34 --> 2229.74] You too -[2229.74 --> 2244.46] Do you believe that your children though sinful by nature are received by God in Christ as members of the covenant and therefore ought to be baptized? -[2245.82 --> 2251.82] And do you promise in reliance on the Holy Spirit and with the help of the Christians in this community gathered here -[2251.82 --> 2257.42] To do all in your power to instruct Theo and all your children in the Christian faith -[2257.66 --> 2263.18] And to lead them by your example into the life of Christian discipleship -[2263.66 --> 2265.18] Nathan and Maria, what is your answer? -[2267.10 --> 2267.50] Amen -[2269.18 --> 2276.14] Our Lord said let the little children come to him and do not hinder them for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these -[2276.14 --> 2282.22] And so if you are a little child or if you are young at heart and you want to come up close to see what's going on -[2282.54 --> 2285.18] We want to invite you to come here to the front -[2288.38 --> 2289.34] Ruby lead the way -[2290.78 --> 2291.90] Yeah, very good -[2292.86 --> 2293.82] Thanks Malachi -[2294.54 --> 2295.98] Not too close -[2295.98 --> 2297.98] Otherwise, you're gonna be in a splash zone -[2297.98 --> 2312.22] Guys in just a minute. We're gonna baptize Theo with this water. We will take it -[2312.78 --> 2314.70] And we will pour it over his head -[2316.78 --> 2319.26] We'll sprinkle it over his head I promise it won't be that much -[2321.34 --> 2327.66] We will take and this water is a picture for us of how jesus makes us clean -[2328.30 --> 2334.06] So just like sometimes hopefully recently you guys have showers or baths and that makes you clean -[2334.46 --> 2337.02] Right. This is a picture for us of what -[2337.58 --> 2344.62] Jesus does in his life and in his death and in his resurrection and we're going to take this picture and put it on theo -[2345.34 --> 2345.66] today -[2349.02 --> 2351.02] Bring him forward -[2353.98 --> 2356.38] Theo William John -[2356.38 --> 2356.86] John -[2356.86 --> 2357.66] Klein Geltink -[2357.66 --> 2360.62] I baptize you in the name of the father -[2362.70 --> 2363.58] In the name of the son -[2365.82 --> 2367.34] And in the name of the holy spirit -[2367.34 --> 2369.42] Amen -[2369.42 --> 2372.46] Amen -[2376.30 --> 2377.18] You like that part -[2383.10 --> 2384.14] Take that and help your mom -[2384.14 --> 2389.10] As we have baptized -[2389.10 --> 2393.82] Theo and heard the promises of god as we have heard his parents make promises -[2393.82 --> 2399.26] We as a church family also have opportunity to make promises -[2400.22 --> 2404.22] And so i'm going to invite you congregation here gathered to stand -[2404.22 --> 2407.26] I'm, going to ask you a question -[2409.26 --> 2416.70] And then following the question I invite you to respond by saying we do with god's help kids if you want to go back to your seats -[2416.70 --> 2418.22] You can thank you for being up here -[2418.22 --> 2426.30] Do you church family of langley emmanuel friends and visitors all who believe in the lord jesus do you promise -[2426.30 --> 2429.58] To love encourage and support nathan -[2429.58 --> 2433.42] Maria kezia marcus julia joel anna and now -[2433.90 --> 2435.58] Theo did I get them all -[2435.58 --> 2436.54] Good -[2436.54 --> 2442.54] Do you promise to love and support them by teaching the gospel of god's love -[2443.18 --> 2453.02] By being an example of christian faith and character and by giving the strong support of god's family in fellowship prayer and service -[2453.26 --> 2457.82] And maybe once in a while by babysitting so that mom and dad can go out on a date -[2457.82 --> 2460.94] Congregation what is your answer? -[2463.90 --> 2464.30] Amen -[2465.10 --> 2465.90] You may be seated -[2470.54 --> 2471.50] Do you mind if I take him? -[2480.86 --> 2486.70] Congregation of the lord jesus christ today this child begins a journey of faith -[2487.90 --> 2495.42] A journey of faith that he will walk with us lord willing straight unto the day where he stands in front of us -[2495.66 --> 2498.14] professing his shared faith -[2498.62 --> 2504.38] Together and so as you have promised to receive him. I urge you -[2505.66 --> 2509.10] Be god's presence in his life -[2511.42 --> 2517.50] Be the one and the way through whom he sees the love of jesus and takes that -[2517.98 --> 2518.62] For himself -[2521.02 --> 2524.38] Be in his life a source of god's peace -[2525.66 --> 2527.42] And a source of god's grace -[2528.62 --> 2532.38] And be for this family and all of these children the same -[2534.22 --> 2540.94] The blood of jesus unites us all and by baptism you have a new family and he -[2540.94 --> 2545.34] Is part of that family amen -[2546.70 --> 2547.02] Amen -[2547.02 --> 2548.54] We're going to pray together -[2548.54 --> 2552.62] Holy god -[2553.58 --> 2554.38] Heavenly father -[2554.38 --> 2554.62] Heavenly father -[2555.42 --> 2559.82] We thank you for who you are and for your promise to us in baptism -[2559.82 --> 2563.58] We thank you for that promise now extended to theo -[2563.58 --> 2571.74] We pray that you would move in power by grace so that faith grows in him strong and sure -[2571.74 --> 2577.82] So that he may be like a tree planted by streams of living water that can endure -[2577.82 --> 2583.82] The wind that fears not the fire that can stand when pushed against -[2585.74 --> 2587.58] Roots your love in him -[2588.14 --> 2588.70] We pray -[2589.82 --> 2597.74] And may we all together cling to the promises that you have spoken over theo and over each of us who believe -[2597.74 --> 2601.66] We pray this in the name of jesus christ our savior -[2602.30 --> 2602.78] amen -[2606.38 --> 2607.74] One more hold on -[2608.62 --> 2608.94] Sorry -[2609.82 --> 2611.18] I appreciate your eagerness -[2612.54 --> 2614.86] We have just a gift to mark this occasion -[2614.86 --> 2618.86] So i'm going to invite john skipper who's your district elder to come forward just a -[2619.18 --> 2624.30] A gift that a reminder a children's book about what happened here today and a certificate -[2625.02 --> 2627.02] To commemorate that together -[2629.10 --> 2629.58] Thank you -[2630.62 --> 2632.62] All right now you can go -[2648.86 --> 2661.02] How deep the father's love for us -[2661.02 --> 2665.02] How God's beyond your measure -[2665.02 --> 2669.02] That he should give his only son -[2669.02 --> 2671.02] To pay the registry -[2671.02 --> 2685.18] How great the pain of searing cause -[2685.18 --> 2689.18] O father has his face away -[2689.18 --> 2693.18] As wounds which guard the troubled heart -[2693.18 --> 2695.18] Amen -[2695.18 --> 2699.34] Such guard the chosen one -[2699.34 --> 2705.34] I can give his only son's to glory -[2715.34 --> 2721.34] Behold the man upon the cross -[2721.34 --> 2727.50] My sin upon his shoulders -[2727.50 --> 2733.50] Ashamed I hear my walking voice -[2733.50 --> 2737.50] Call out among the scoffers -[2737.50 --> 2743.50] It was my sin that held him there -[2743.50 --> 2747.50] Until it was accomplished -[2748.14 --> 2751.66] His time -[2753.34 --> 2755.10] Has pode於愛 -[2755.98 --> 2758.30] Zevence -[2759.26 --> 2761.50] Rec noite -[2761.50 --> 2777.04] I will not boast in anything -[2777.04 --> 2783.06] No gifts, no power, no wisdom -[2783.06 --> 2790.28] But I will boast in Jesus Christ -[2790.28 --> 2795.10] His death and resurrection -[2795.10 --> 2801.58] Why should I gain from His reward? -[2801.58 --> 2807.58] I cannot give an answer -[2807.58 --> 2814.08] But gifts I know with all my heart -[2814.08 --> 2819.06] His words that live my ransom -[2819.06 --> 2826.26] Why should I gain from His reward? -[2826.26 --> 2832.26] I cannot give an answer -[2832.26 --> 2839.60] But gifts I know with all my heart -[2839.60 --> 2845.92] His wounds have made my ransom -[2845.92 --> 2862.64] Good morning. -[2863.12 --> 2869.90] Today's offering, or today, instead of our regular offering, we have a reverse offering. -[2869.90 --> 2876.70] The purpose of this is to directly bless people in our community who may be struggling this Christmas season. -[2877.02 --> 2884.32] So as the deacons pass around the gift cards, please feel free to take what you need and help Emmanuel CRC give back to the community. -[2884.32 --> 2892.04] Thank you -[2892.04 --> 2896.14] Thank you -[2896.14 --> 2923.78] The child is raised to lay to rest -[2923.78 --> 2929.32] On Mary's lavish sleeping -[2929.32 --> 2936.00] Whom angels greet with anthem sweet -[2936.00 --> 2941.54] While shepherds watch our King -[2941.54 --> 2948.24] This, this is Christ our King -[2948.24 --> 2954.42] Whom shepherds guard and angels sing -[2954.42 --> 2960.38] Haste, haste to bring Him all -[2960.38 --> 2966.08] The faith, the Son of Mary -[2966.08 --> 2984.94] Thy lives be in such cleanest state -[2984.94 --> 2990.30] Where ox and ass are feeding -[2990.30 --> 2996.64] Good Christian, dear, for sinners here -[2996.64 --> 3002.30] The silent word is pleading -[3002.30 --> 3008.52] Death's fear shall pierce Him through -[3008.52 --> 3014.30] The cross be born for me, for you -[3014.30 --> 3020.80] Hail, hail, for one may flesh -[3020.80 --> 3026.30] The faith, the Son of Mary -[3026.30 --> 3044.44] So bring Him intense gold and fur -[3044.44 --> 3050.38] Come, peasant King to own Him -[3050.38 --> 3056.38] The King of kings salvation brings -[3056.38 --> 3062.62] Let loving hearts enthrone Him -[3062.62 --> 3068.20] Praise, praise the song on heart -[3068.20 --> 3073.38] The Virgin sings her lullaby -[3073.38 --> 3079.76] Joy, joy, joy for Christ is born -[3079.76 --> 3085.38] The faith, the Son of Mary -[3085.38 --> 3091.38] This, this is Christ the King -[3091.38 --> 3097.12] Whom shepherds guard and angels sing -[3097.12 --> 3102.88] He sings to bring Him all -[3102.88 --> 3108.12] The greater Son of Mary -[3108.12 --> 3127.10] He sings to bring Him all -[3127.10 --> 3130.20] Okay, I'd like to invite all the kids up front -[3130.20 --> 3131.08] For Kids Corner -[3131.08 --> 3138.20] Yeah, you guys can pull up a little closer -[3138.20 --> 3142.82] Alright, how's everyone doing this morning? -[3143.20 --> 3143.50] Good -[3143.50 --> 3145.38] Louder, how's everybody doing? -[3145.70 --> 3146.22] Good -[3146.22 --> 3147.90] Ah, it's good, that's better -[3147.90 --> 3151.52] The last few weeks in children's worship time -[3151.52 --> 3153.72] I've learned and noticed that we're talking about -[3153.72 --> 3155.54] Hearing, listening -[3155.54 --> 3156.84] Hmm -[3156.84 --> 3157.76] About God? -[3158.32 --> 3160.44] Yes, what God's been telling us -[3160.44 --> 3161.58] Or will be teaching us -[3161.58 --> 3163.84] I got a question for you -[3163.84 --> 3165.32] When you guys are at home sometimes -[3165.32 --> 3166.12] And you're around the house -[3166.12 --> 3167.26] Does your mom ever say to you -[3167.26 --> 3168.72] Or dad, are you hearing me? -[3168.80 --> 3170.18] Or are you, can you hear me? -[3170.24 --> 3171.04] Or are you listening? -[3171.22 --> 3172.54] Does that ever happen in your house? -[3172.72 --> 3174.10] Yeah, sometimes, yeah? -[3175.64 --> 3177.48] Like when your mom asks you to clean your room -[3177.48 --> 3178.78] And you're like, and you don't -[3178.78 --> 3180.76] And then she says, did you hear what I said? -[3180.76 --> 3183.38] So guess what? -[3184.10 --> 3185.20] I did some research -[3185.20 --> 3187.10] Humans are not very good listeners -[3187.10 --> 3188.78] We don't, well we're good listeners -[3188.78 --> 3190.12] But we don't hear very well -[3190.12 --> 3192.76] In terms of, in relation to all other animals -[3192.76 --> 3193.72] On this planet -[3193.72 --> 3195.44] There's some that hear better than us -[3195.44 --> 3196.12] Did you know that? -[3196.52 --> 3196.96] Bunnies? -[3197.52 --> 3198.88] Anybody got any other ideas? -[3199.34 --> 3199.60] Yeah -[3199.60 --> 3202.58] Anyway, I've got five of the top -[3202.58 --> 3205.78] Listening animals in the world -[3205.78 --> 3207.44] Does anybody know what that is? -[3207.44 --> 3208.44] The ass -[3208.44 --> 3209.66] Yes, that's number one -[3209.66 --> 3210.56] What's the second one? -[3210.80 --> 3211.34] What's that? -[3212.22 --> 3212.66] Dolphins -[3212.66 --> 3212.68] Dolphins -[3212.68 --> 3212.70] Dolphins -[3212.70 --> 3213.56] What about the next? -[3214.76 --> 3216.72] That was a little surprising to me -[3216.72 --> 3217.50] What's that? -[3218.40 --> 3219.82] That's a moth, actually -[3219.82 --> 3221.92] And the last one is? -[3223.66 --> 3224.26] Owl -[3224.26 --> 3224.54] Owl -[3224.54 --> 3227.20] So today we're going to go in the back -[3227.20 --> 3228.52] And we're going to learn more about -[3228.52 --> 3230.52] Hearing and listening to God's word -[3230.52 --> 3234.34] Should we pray together first before we go? -[3235.30 --> 3236.78] Hold your hands, close your eyes -[3236.78 --> 3237.82] Heavenly Father -[3237.82 --> 3238.80] Thank you for this day -[3238.80 --> 3241.30] Thank you for all the many blessings you've given us -[3241.30 --> 3243.02] Thank you for the teachers -[3243.02 --> 3244.52] That are teaching your word -[3244.52 --> 3246.16] In children's worship time -[3246.16 --> 3248.00] I pray that we have a good time this morning -[3248.00 --> 3249.84] And learning about you -[3249.84 --> 3251.16] For Jesus' sake, amen -[3251.16 --> 3252.20] Alright -[3252.20 --> 3253.36] Stand up -[3253.36 --> 3258.20] Thank you for being free -[3258.20 --> 3259.06] To be a good timeING -[3259.06 --> 3259.68] And begin with your great information -[3259.68 --> 3260.50] Thank you -[3260.50 --> 3260.80] Amen -[3260.80 --> 3261.58] Thank you -[3261.58 --> 3263.38] Amen -[3263.38 --> 3293.36] Thank you. -[3293.38 --> 3303.72] Good morning. -[3303.88 --> 3308.58] My name is Sam, and I'm a member here at Emanuel, and it's my privilege to lead you in prayer -[3308.58 --> 3309.14] this morning. -[3309.88 --> 3311.46] I do have one announcement. -[3311.46 --> 3326.10] David and Leanne Harris are first-time grandparents, and they wanted us to know about that. -[3326.64 --> 3333.02] Lucy Peach Stunenberg, the first child of Megan and Dylan, born late yesterday. -[3333.02 --> 3335.04] So we are grateful with them. -[3340.56 --> 3341.72] Please pray with me. -[3341.72 --> 3345.96] Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. -[3347.00 --> 3354.18] We read in Isaiah, it says, for unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government -[3354.18 --> 3361.22] will be upon his shoulders, and his name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, -[3361.60 --> 3364.28] Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. -[3364.28 --> 3369.46] As we journey in this Advent season, we are mindful of your love. -[3370.52 --> 3372.48] How deep the Father's love for us! -[3373.26 --> 3374.92] How vast beyond all measure! -[3375.50 --> 3379.38] That he should give his only son to make a wretch his treasure. -[3379.38 --> 3388.28] Jesus came into this world, not in a palace which could never match his glory, but in a cattle -[3388.28 --> 3395.92] shed, born to a peasant girl and a humble carpenter, with means that would be considered under the -[3395.92 --> 3397.30] poverty line today. -[3398.48 --> 3401.22] We pray for a world which does not acknowledge him. -[3402.14 --> 3405.74] We think of the war in Ukraine, where thousands are suffering. -[3405.74 --> 3410.06] Unrest in Iran, and many other areas of this world. -[3410.92 --> 3413.34] For a struggle to gain power and greed. -[3414.74 --> 3418.54] May this season be a time when many will seek you as the King of Kings. -[3419.64 --> 3423.56] Bless the efforts of many organizations that try to make a difference. -[3424.64 --> 3427.70] The ones that are your hands and feet to bring the good news of the gospel. -[3428.88 --> 3433.60] We are grateful for the many mission thrift stores which provide means for the Bible League -[3433.60 --> 3441.10] of Canada to provide scriptures, training for new believers in over 43 countries in our world. -[3442.04 --> 3443.00] You are faithful. -[3444.12 --> 3447.72] We also pray for those that find this time a difficult one. -[3448.54 --> 3452.06] Loved ones that may be missing as we gather to celebrate Christmas. -[3452.82 --> 3455.66] Those unable to connect with a strange family and friends. -[3455.66 --> 3462.58] We pray that you will bring restoration to marriages, to strain relationships, and allow healing to take place. -[3463.46 --> 3468.62] Give a measure of your goodness to them, and pass the peace that transcends all understanding. -[3469.98 --> 3475.98] We are also grateful for the successful surgery for Trudy DeVries, and pray for a quick recovery in the weeks ahead. -[3475.98 --> 3483.04] We pray for continued healing for John Philpott, Harry Baumann, who are recovering from recent surgeries. -[3483.82 --> 3488.50] Give them your peace as they take small steps to forward to more normalized life. -[3489.26 --> 3491.78] We pray for Rika Ammons as she waits for hip surgery. -[3492.52 --> 3496.92] Give patient understanding and endurance to this time of pain. -[3496.92 --> 3506.56] We also bring the unspoken request for those who suffer in silence, and are not specifically named, but you know them all. -[3507.76 --> 3511.42] We celebrate with the Klang-Elding family and the baptism of Theo today. -[3512.08 --> 3516.80] We pray that Nathan and Maria will receive the wisdom to nurture him in the knowledge of you. -[3518.28 --> 3524.58] Anoint Pastor Chris this morning as he brings your word, that his words will be focusing on Revelations 2. -[3524.58 --> 3528.12] Speak to us and encourage our walk in the week to come. -[3529.10 --> 3535.12] As we break bread together today, remind us of the incredible gift in the death and resurrection of your Son, -[3535.66 --> 3539.50] who sits at your right hand, interceding for us continuously. -[3540.42 --> 3542.44] Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly. -[3544.04 --> 3553.18] Behold the man upon the cross, my sin upon his shoulders, ashamed to hear my mocking voice call out among the scoffers. -[3553.18 --> 3557.88] It was my sin that held him there until it was accomplished. -[3558.54 --> 3561.12] His dying breath has brought me life. -[3561.70 --> 3563.26] I know that it is finished. -[3564.30 --> 3566.36] Why should I gain from his reward? -[3567.00 --> 3568.54] I cannot give an answer. -[3569.30 --> 3571.06] But this I know with all my heart. -[3571.76 --> 3573.56] His wounds have paid my ransom. -[3574.48 --> 3575.44] In Christ alone. -[3576.36 --> 3576.88] Amen. -[3576.88 --> 3577.02] Amen. -[3583.18 --> 3610.30] This Advent and Christmas season, -[3610.30 --> 3613.82] we have been looking in the book of Revelation. -[3614.10 --> 3617.48] We've been kind of jumping around in different places. -[3617.66 --> 3621.00] We've seen some pretty strange stories -[3621.00 --> 3625.62] and lived in the midst of their teachings for a little while. -[3625.74 --> 3631.56] Today we come to what might be a little bit more familiar of a text to many of you. -[3631.62 --> 3634.94] We're going to read together from Revelation 7. -[3634.94 --> 3637.92] I'm going to read the first seven verses, -[3638.92 --> 3645.92] which is the letter from Jesus through John to the church in Ephesus. -[3646.62 --> 3651.70] As always, I encourage you to have a Bible open in front of you or turned on and the like. -[3652.08 --> 3656.34] We're going to spend some time looking closely at Revelation 2, 1 to 7, -[3656.48 --> 3661.30] but also we're going to spend some time looking at the book of Ephesians. -[3661.30 --> 3664.40] So we're reading the letter to the church in Ephesus, -[3664.64 --> 3666.68] and so it's pertinent for us to have Ephesians. -[3666.74 --> 3669.62] So if you thumb back a couple books and have Ephesians, -[3669.74 --> 3671.68] kind of put your finger in there or a piece of paper, -[3672.02 --> 3674.46] you can follow along more quickly. -[3675.64 --> 3679.92] Let me begin by reading from Revelation 2. -[3681.92 --> 3686.14] To the angel of the church in Ephesus write, -[3686.14 --> 3692.34] These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand -[3692.34 --> 3695.32] and walks among the seven golden lampstands. -[3696.64 --> 3701.76] I know your deeds, your hard work, and your perseverance. -[3702.52 --> 3705.64] I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, -[3705.64 --> 3710.28] that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, -[3710.48 --> 3712.66] and have found them false. -[3712.66 --> 3719.12] You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name -[3719.12 --> 3721.54] and have not grown weary. -[3722.80 --> 3726.30] Yet I hold this against you. -[3727.14 --> 3730.96] You have forsaken the love you had at first. -[3732.14 --> 3734.36] Consider how far you have fallen. -[3735.00 --> 3737.72] Repent and do the things you did at first. -[3737.72 --> 3742.96] If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place. -[3744.18 --> 3746.44] But you have this in your favor. -[3747.30 --> 3752.22] You hate the practice of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. -[3753.52 --> 3758.64] Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. -[3758.64 --> 3764.40] To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, -[3764.78 --> 3767.78] which is in the paradise of God. -[3768.52 --> 3770.04] This is the word of the Lord. -[3770.04 --> 3780.78] Right now, in our family devotions at home, -[3781.58 --> 3784.94] which we do after our evening meal together, -[3785.94 --> 3788.22] because it is the season of Advent, -[3788.44 --> 3793.22] and because we are currently reading through the book Seeking God's Face, -[3793.76 --> 3796.16] if you're not familiar with that devotional book, -[3796.16 --> 3800.76] it's a collection of scriptures and confessional texts -[3800.76 --> 3803.54] from the Reformed tradition more broadly, -[3804.02 --> 3807.50] sort of following the structure of the Revised Common Lectionary, -[3808.34 --> 3810.20] following the liturgical calendar, -[3810.94 --> 3814.12] and leads through scriptures and prayers. -[3814.94 --> 3818.64] It's a really interesting book as you move through the year together. -[3819.16 --> 3823.92] Anyway, as part of our doing that as a family this Advent season, -[3823.92 --> 3827.40] we also have our Advent wreath out, -[3827.48 --> 3829.64] where we have candles in that wreath, -[3829.78 --> 3832.28] and we read the blessing, -[3832.58 --> 3834.42] which is just a verse from a psalm, -[3834.50 --> 3838.10] and then one of our kids will light the Advent candle, -[3839.10 --> 3841.78] and then we'll do the readings and the like, -[3841.88 --> 3845.08] and then when we have done the concluding prayer, -[3845.42 --> 3849.08] the same person who lit the candle gets to blow it out at the end. -[3849.08 --> 3854.32] Now, we go through and do that every day, -[3854.44 --> 3856.90] so the first week of devotions we light one candle, -[3857.08 --> 3858.98] and then the second week we light two candles. -[3859.38 --> 3861.72] Today is the first day of the third week of Advent, -[3861.84 --> 3864.16] so we'll light three tonight when we do that. -[3865.86 --> 3868.64] Now, I have to say that as we've been doing this, -[3868.86 --> 3873.02] my kids are really excited for family devotional time, -[3873.66 --> 3874.94] or at least that's what I thought, -[3874.94 --> 3877.02] because really they're excited to light the candle, -[3878.28 --> 3881.28] to get the lighters flicker switch out of the drawer, -[3881.46 --> 3883.90] to run over and to light the candle, -[3884.06 --> 3885.98] and then to play with the burning candle, -[3886.04 --> 3887.76] but not actually play with the burning candle. -[3887.86 --> 3889.76] You know how kids like kind of lean forward, -[3889.88 --> 3892.94] and they talk with a little extra blowing -[3893.64 --> 3895.90] to see if they can make it flicker or blow out, -[3896.08 --> 3897.96] and then when we finally finish, -[3898.04 --> 3898.94] we say amen, and they go. -[3898.94 --> 3902.62] So there's this excitement that they have, -[3903.02 --> 3905.94] but it's not for what we wanted them to be excited about, -[3906.34 --> 3909.22] and yet we are going through the rhythms. -[3909.80 --> 3913.30] Now, I think that kind of can function for us generally -[3913.30 --> 3917.38] as a parallel or a parable, maybe, -[3917.74 --> 3922.10] for our moving through these seasons, right? -[3922.14 --> 3923.36] We want you to be excited, -[3923.58 --> 3926.28] but sometimes we get excited about the wrong things, -[3926.28 --> 3927.84] or we get really excited, -[3928.10 --> 3930.64] and then it kind of wanes a little bit, -[3930.74 --> 3932.06] and then we get excited again, -[3932.12 --> 3935.94] and then it lessens a little bit more, right? -[3935.98 --> 3937.06] I think for some of us, -[3937.12 --> 3940.76] that's our experience of Christmas and Advent, -[3940.92 --> 3942.74] this excitement and it waning, -[3942.88 --> 3943.86] and then excitement again, -[3943.94 --> 3945.50] and then back to waning. -[3946.12 --> 3949.06] Now, maybe for you, it's a different pattern, right? -[3949.08 --> 3952.18] Maybe it's excitement, but then apathy, -[3952.18 --> 3954.52] or maybe it's excitement, -[3954.88 --> 3957.10] but then you remember that thing, -[3957.30 --> 3960.38] and that, oh man, that guy cut you off, -[3960.46 --> 3964.18] and then you're back in anger for a little while. -[3965.28 --> 3968.68] And maybe it's not even moving from one extreme to another, -[3969.10 --> 3970.72] right, like excitement to apathy. -[3971.12 --> 3974.28] Maybe this is just a season of grief for you, -[3974.30 --> 3976.10] or you're under a shadow of doubt, -[3976.10 --> 3978.94] or your faith is just full of despair, -[3978.94 --> 3983.54] or, and so this Advent and Christmas is hard. -[3985.34 --> 3987.74] Now, in our Advent series here, -[3988.14 --> 3992.12] we have been adding another layer to that, -[3992.68 --> 3996.42] because not only is Advent a season of looking back -[3996.42 --> 3999.44] and of waiting for the Christ child, -[3999.74 --> 4003.80] it is also a season of anticipating his return, -[4004.36 --> 4007.60] a season where we look into the future -[4007.60 --> 4009.80] to look forward to the day -[4009.80 --> 4014.68] where Christ will come again in glory, right? -[4014.72 --> 4017.28] And so to all of that excitement and waning, -[4017.52 --> 4019.46] to all that excitement and apathy, -[4019.76 --> 4023.40] to all of that grief and groaning or doubt, -[4023.62 --> 4028.48] we are adding the layer of a future anticipation. -[4028.48 --> 4032.74] And it has been our contention, -[4032.86 --> 4033.94] our point here, -[4033.94 --> 4037.94] that it is precisely this future anticipation -[4037.94 --> 4042.06] that allows us or fuels us -[4042.06 --> 4046.52] to live in the midst of grief with hope, -[4046.56 --> 4049.88] or to live in the midst of despair with rejoicing, -[4050.08 --> 4052.36] properly defined and understood, of course, right? -[4052.52 --> 4054.94] And so looking at the book of Revelation, -[4054.94 --> 4057.86] we have been allowing God's Spirit -[4057.86 --> 4061.32] to fill our lives with patient endurance, -[4061.68 --> 4063.58] with a particular meaning, -[4064.58 --> 4067.44] and to fill our faith with a unique purpose. -[4068.58 --> 4071.00] We've reiterated that in our candle lighting. -[4071.42 --> 4073.86] We've said it over and over again each week here, -[4074.00 --> 4078.42] but living in anticipation of the return of the King -[4078.42 --> 4083.52] invites us to be a people of patient endurance and faith, -[4083.52 --> 4087.24] who can live rejoicing in the world to come -[4087.24 --> 4090.44] and with joy in the world that is, -[4091.16 --> 4094.90] holding on to the love that holds on to us -[4094.90 --> 4096.60] and living it boldly, -[4097.44 --> 4101.72] longing for the day when all will be made whole. -[4103.88 --> 4108.50] This morning, we're going to dig into that third part, -[4108.66 --> 4112.22] holding on to the love that holds on to us, -[4112.22 --> 4114.34] living it boldly. -[4115.10 --> 4117.50] Now to do that, we've read from Revelation 2, -[4117.62 --> 4118.66] this first section here, -[4119.00 --> 4123.40] and our particular focus is going to come from verse 4, -[4123.54 --> 4125.20] and so you might have that there, -[4125.66 --> 4129.48] where Jesus says through John to the church in Ephesus, -[4129.74 --> 4132.10] yet this I hold against you. -[4132.90 --> 4136.86] You have forsaken the love you had at first. -[4136.86 --> 4140.50] Now, just to get everyone caught up -[4140.50 --> 4143.06] and to make sure that we're all on the same page here, -[4143.42 --> 4147.10] Revelation sort of has two halves to it, -[4147.14 --> 4149.20] or two parts, in a sense. -[4149.52 --> 4152.50] The first part, which is not actually near half the letter, -[4152.80 --> 4155.36] is the first three chapters, right? -[4155.38 --> 4156.20] It's the introduction, -[4156.46 --> 4158.46] and it's the seven letters to the churches -[4158.46 --> 4160.14] of a particular area. -[4160.32 --> 4161.88] Now, if you have your Bible open, -[4161.88 --> 4164.30] you'll see in chapter 1, verse 10, -[4165.10 --> 4166.48] John writes, -[4166.76 --> 4169.48] On the Lord's day I was in the Spirit, -[4169.74 --> 4173.72] and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet, -[4174.10 --> 4174.60] which said, -[4175.28 --> 4177.38] Write on a scroll what you see, -[4177.54 --> 4179.34] and send it to the seven churches, -[4179.76 --> 4182.16] to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, -[4183.80 --> 4187.20] Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. -[4187.20 --> 4192.50] Now, you can see, we have an image there, -[4193.08 --> 4195.40] that the locations of these churches -[4195.40 --> 4199.18] are in the western part of what we would call -[4199.18 --> 4200.60] modern-day Turkey. -[4200.74 --> 4202.94] They're kind of collected there together. -[4204.40 --> 4208.46] And the first letter is to the church of Ephesus. -[4209.64 --> 4213.96] And our focus this morning in this letter -[4213.96 --> 4216.34] actually starts out really strong, -[4216.64 --> 4218.34] and it's full of lots of praise -[4218.34 --> 4219.76] for the church there, right? -[4219.82 --> 4221.12] Like, look at it again. -[4221.20 --> 4223.74] Jesus says, right, through John's writing, -[4223.82 --> 4224.00] he says, -[4224.08 --> 4226.00] I know what you've done, right? -[4226.02 --> 4227.08] I know your hard work. -[4227.16 --> 4228.56] I know how you've persevered. -[4228.72 --> 4231.02] I know that you've tested for the truth, -[4231.18 --> 4233.40] and that you have challenged those who came in -[4233.40 --> 4234.44] and claimed to be apostles, -[4234.58 --> 4237.00] but you've tested it and discerned with them -[4237.00 --> 4238.28] and found out that they weren't, -[4238.46 --> 4239.60] and you kicked them out. -[4239.74 --> 4240.96] I know that you have persevered. -[4241.12 --> 4243.10] I know that you have endured hardships. -[4243.10 --> 4245.38] I know that you have faced persecution. -[4246.00 --> 4250.36] I know that you have not grown weary in doing so. -[4251.72 --> 4253.16] Now, I don't know about you, -[4253.26 --> 4256.90] but I, for one, would love to hear Jesus say that to me, -[4257.56 --> 4259.16] right, that I have done these things, -[4259.26 --> 4260.96] that I have met these challenges -[4260.96 --> 4262.46] that have been placed in front of me. -[4264.20 --> 4267.12] But then there's a shift in tone. -[4267.30 --> 4268.02] Jesus says, -[4268.02 --> 4270.80] Yet this I hold against you. -[4271.26 --> 4275.54] You have forsaken the love you had at first. -[4276.90 --> 4278.10] Now, as I read that, -[4278.64 --> 4279.76] that begs a question. -[4280.76 --> 4283.46] What love have they forsaken? -[4285.00 --> 4285.78] Now, at first glance, -[4285.92 --> 4288.26] you might think there's an easy answer to that question. -[4288.36 --> 4290.46] We might say that the church in Ephesus -[4290.46 --> 4293.68] allowed secondary things to become primary things, -[4293.98 --> 4294.18] right, -[4294.18 --> 4297.72] or that the church in Ephesus forgot the priority of loving Jesus, -[4298.04 --> 4301.02] that the church in Ephesus forgot to love God -[4301.02 --> 4305.14] and to love the God who first loved them. -[4305.76 --> 4307.08] Or, at the very least, -[4307.14 --> 4309.60] you can argue that they've moved that down -[4309.60 --> 4312.34] to a secondary or tertiary, right, -[4312.42 --> 4314.18] level priority. -[4315.14 --> 4316.24] And to be fair, -[4316.70 --> 4319.12] I've heard good pastors and theologians -[4319.12 --> 4321.32] interpret this text that way. -[4321.32 --> 4324.88] But two things on that. -[4325.66 --> 4325.96] First, -[4327.28 --> 4330.34] I don't think that that takes into account -[4330.34 --> 4332.84] the meaning of the word forsaken, -[4333.62 --> 4334.02] right, -[4334.06 --> 4335.72] which is a pretty strong word -[4335.72 --> 4338.86] for Jesus to speak here, right? -[4338.90 --> 4340.52] The word that's written in Greek -[4340.52 --> 4343.58] can mean to send away, -[4343.72 --> 4344.86] like to force out, -[4345.10 --> 4348.82] and it's actually sometimes even translated as divorce. -[4350.04 --> 4350.74] To divorce. -[4350.74 --> 4351.26] And so, -[4351.38 --> 4353.18] it's a really strong word -[4353.18 --> 4354.94] that Jesus is using. -[4355.12 --> 4355.60] And in fact, -[4355.70 --> 4356.34] I think, -[4356.68 --> 4358.10] and we'll get into this in a minute, -[4358.22 --> 4360.32] I think that the marriage image -[4360.32 --> 4361.54] of this word -[4361.54 --> 4363.34] and the broken marriage image -[4363.34 --> 4365.06] helps us understand -[4365.06 --> 4365.90] the criticism -[4365.90 --> 4368.28] that Jesus has for the church in Ephesus. -[4368.88 --> 4369.08] And so, -[4369.16 --> 4369.78] hang on to that. -[4369.78 --> 4374.16] The second thing I think we need to do -[4374.16 --> 4376.78] is actually go to another source -[4376.78 --> 4379.46] for what we know about the church in Ephesus. -[4379.46 --> 4381.34] And I've already alluded to this, right? -[4381.42 --> 4382.24] Luckily for us, -[4382.24 --> 4384.04] we have another letter -[4384.04 --> 4385.56] that has a firsthand account -[4385.56 --> 4388.04] of exactly what the church in Ephesus -[4388.04 --> 4388.94] was facing -[4388.94 --> 4390.38] and dealing with -[4390.38 --> 4391.38] and struggling with. -[4391.38 --> 4392.70] And so, -[4392.86 --> 4394.56] if you have your Bibles -[4394.56 --> 4395.58] in front of you, -[4395.70 --> 4396.16] I encourage you, -[4396.22 --> 4398.50] flip over a few pages back -[4398.50 --> 4400.54] to the book of Ephesians. -[4400.54 --> 4405.12] Now, this is a letter -[4405.12 --> 4406.50] that Paul writes -[4406.50 --> 4408.06] to the Ephesian church. -[4408.48 --> 4410.14] The Ephesian church is one, -[4410.38 --> 4412.36] or gathering of house churches -[4412.36 --> 4414.00] probably in the city of Ephesus, -[4414.34 --> 4416.00] is one that he planted, -[4416.14 --> 4416.80] that he started -[4416.80 --> 4418.32] on his missionary journey -[4418.32 --> 4419.14] into the region. -[4419.44 --> 4421.88] And he continues to engage with them -[4421.88 --> 4423.36] through letter writing. -[4423.86 --> 4424.96] He continues to do so -[4424.96 --> 4426.12] even as he is in prison -[4426.12 --> 4427.14] in chains for the gospel. -[4427.30 --> 4428.06] He's writing letters -[4428.06 --> 4429.10] to these churches. -[4429.10 --> 4431.18] He's familiar with this church -[4431.18 --> 4432.00] and with these people. -[4432.14 --> 4433.16] He knows their structure. -[4433.32 --> 4434.18] He knows their leadership. -[4434.60 --> 4436.00] He knows who they are -[4436.00 --> 4437.08] and the things -[4437.08 --> 4439.42] that they have endured together. -[4440.68 --> 4442.22] The letter of Ephesians -[4442.22 --> 4443.50] is a beautiful book, -[4443.54 --> 4444.52] and I encourage you, -[4444.56 --> 4445.40] as you have time, -[4445.56 --> 4446.94] to read it on your own. -[4447.40 --> 4448.24] And if you can, -[4448.30 --> 4449.14] do it in one sitting -[4449.14 --> 4449.76] so that you can get -[4449.76 --> 4450.68] the whole scope of it. -[4451.40 --> 4453.52] It is a beautiful articulation -[4453.52 --> 4454.34] of the gospel, -[4454.50 --> 4455.02] what it means -[4455.02 --> 4456.78] to be made alive in Christ, -[4456.94 --> 4458.72] and then how we can connect -[4458.72 --> 4459.66] the gospel -[4459.66 --> 4460.58] and being made alive -[4460.58 --> 4461.04] in Jesus -[4461.04 --> 4462.82] to the everyday stuff of life, -[4462.86 --> 4464.04] how we are to live, -[4464.38 --> 4465.58] how we are to understand -[4465.58 --> 4467.36] and manage our houses -[4467.36 --> 4468.52] and our businesses -[4468.52 --> 4470.10] and our marriage relationships, -[4470.10 --> 4471.36] how we are to endure -[4471.36 --> 4472.56] testing and trial -[4472.56 --> 4473.70] by putting on -[4473.70 --> 4474.86] the armor of God. -[4475.54 --> 4477.12] There's beautiful depth to it. -[4478.42 --> 4479.40] But pertinent -[4479.40 --> 4480.94] to our discussion -[4480.94 --> 4482.12] this morning, -[4482.68 --> 4484.18] there is one theme -[4484.18 --> 4485.44] that runs -[4485.44 --> 4487.08] through the entire letter -[4487.08 --> 4488.78] that highlights something -[4488.78 --> 4490.58] of the Ephesian church -[4490.58 --> 4491.16] for us. -[4491.86 --> 4492.28] Again, -[4492.38 --> 4493.20] if your Bibles are open, -[4493.26 --> 4494.78] look at verse 15. -[4495.44 --> 4496.24] Paul has spoken -[4496.24 --> 4497.50] a word of introduction. -[4498.04 --> 4498.72] He has beautifully -[4498.72 --> 4499.76] and succinctly -[4499.76 --> 4500.92] recapped the gospel -[4500.92 --> 4501.42] for them -[4501.42 --> 4502.24] and their inclusion -[4502.24 --> 4504.16] into this ministry -[4504.16 --> 4504.88] and the effect -[4504.88 --> 4505.38] of the gospel -[4505.38 --> 4505.86] by the work -[4505.86 --> 4506.60] of the Holy Spirit. -[4506.72 --> 4507.62] And then in verse 15, -[4507.72 --> 4508.18] he says, -[4508.18 --> 4510.36] For this reason, -[4510.88 --> 4511.98] ever since I heard -[4511.98 --> 4512.78] about your faith -[4512.78 --> 4513.82] in the Lord Jesus -[4513.82 --> 4515.82] and your love -[4515.82 --> 4518.08] for all God's people, -[4518.66 --> 4520.66] I have not stopped -[4520.66 --> 4521.80] giving thanks for you, -[4522.24 --> 4523.08] remembering you -[4523.08 --> 4524.52] in all my prayers. -[4525.40 --> 4526.76] What does Paul note -[4526.76 --> 4527.60] about this church? -[4528.44 --> 4529.38] Their love -[4529.38 --> 4530.84] for all God's people. -[4532.54 --> 4533.14] Right? -[4533.20 --> 4533.94] There's a theme -[4533.94 --> 4534.94] that runs -[4534.94 --> 4535.82] through the heart -[4535.82 --> 4537.08] of Ephesians -[4537.08 --> 4537.82] that is about -[4537.82 --> 4540.18] loving God's people. -[4540.34 --> 4541.30] It's about understanding -[4541.30 --> 4542.02] properly -[4542.02 --> 4543.14] the miracle -[4543.14 --> 4544.30] and the majesty -[4544.30 --> 4546.44] of being the bride -[4546.44 --> 4547.72] of Christ, -[4548.26 --> 4549.34] of being the church. -[4550.96 --> 4551.18] Now, -[4551.32 --> 4551.82] I'm going to do this -[4551.82 --> 4552.28] really quick -[4552.28 --> 4553.18] and so as Kevin -[4553.18 --> 4554.04] would like to say, -[4554.36 --> 4554.98] buckle up -[4554.98 --> 4556.24] because we're going -[4556.24 --> 4556.74] to dig in. -[4557.72 --> 4558.38] Bible's open. -[4558.78 --> 4559.40] Chapter 2, -[4559.50 --> 4559.96] Ephesians, -[4560.12 --> 4560.60] verse 11. -[4560.74 --> 4561.28] Paul begins -[4561.28 --> 4561.90] this discussion. -[4562.06 --> 4562.32] He says, -[4562.76 --> 4563.20] Remember -[4563.20 --> 4565.40] that formerly -[4565.40 --> 4566.94] you who are Gentiles, -[4566.94 --> 4568.28] Gentiles just means -[4568.28 --> 4569.16] not Jewish. -[4569.82 --> 4569.90] Right? -[4569.96 --> 4571.76] And so in the ancient world, -[4571.90 --> 4574.58] particularly from Christianity -[4574.58 --> 4576.42] that emerged out of Judaism, -[4577.30 --> 4578.36] you have the Jewish world -[4578.36 --> 4579.42] and then everybody else. -[4580.04 --> 4581.62] That category of everybody else, -[4582.16 --> 4582.62] Gentiles. -[4582.88 --> 4583.88] Another way to translate that -[4583.88 --> 4584.58] is nations. -[4585.38 --> 4586.66] So the non-Jewish people. -[4589.16 --> 4590.30] Remember that formerly -[4590.30 --> 4591.44] you who are Gentiles -[4591.44 --> 4591.96] by birth -[4591.96 --> 4593.48] and called uncircumcised -[4593.48 --> 4594.90] by those who call themselves -[4594.90 --> 4595.66] the circumcision. -[4595.92 --> 4596.34] So again, -[4596.72 --> 4597.02] Jews, -[4597.24 --> 4597.70] Gentiles. -[4599.22 --> 4599.68] Remember -[4599.68 --> 4601.08] that at that time -[4601.08 --> 4602.54] you were separate -[4602.54 --> 4603.30] from Christ, -[4603.52 --> 4604.72] excluded from citizenship -[4604.72 --> 4605.40] in Israel -[4605.40 --> 4606.24] and foreigners -[4606.24 --> 4607.16] to the covenants -[4607.16 --> 4607.94] of the promise -[4607.94 --> 4609.00] without hope -[4609.00 --> 4609.84] and without God -[4609.84 --> 4610.42] in the world. -[4610.78 --> 4611.38] But now -[4611.38 --> 4612.78] in Christ Jesus -[4612.78 --> 4613.80] you who were -[4613.80 --> 4614.98] once far away -[4614.98 --> 4616.16] have been brought near -[4616.16 --> 4617.36] by the blood -[4617.36 --> 4618.40] of Christ. -[4619.30 --> 4620.14] And then he goes on, -[4620.46 --> 4621.00] 14, -[4621.00 --> 4622.58] for he himself -[4622.58 --> 4623.62] is our peace -[4623.62 --> 4624.54] who has made -[4624.54 --> 4625.52] the two groups -[4625.52 --> 4626.04] one -[4626.04 --> 4627.26] and has destroyed -[4627.26 --> 4627.94] the barrier, -[4628.12 --> 4629.20] the dividing wall -[4629.20 --> 4630.40] of hostility. -[4630.52 --> 4631.54] Just a little further down, -[4631.76 --> 4632.36] his purpose -[4632.36 --> 4633.44] was to create -[4633.44 --> 4634.16] in himself -[4634.16 --> 4635.78] one new humanity -[4635.78 --> 4636.90] out of the two -[4636.90 --> 4638.38] thus making peace -[4638.38 --> 4639.96] and in one body -[4639.96 --> 4640.88] to reconcile -[4640.88 --> 4642.82] both of them -[4642.82 --> 4643.50] to God -[4643.50 --> 4645.16] through the cross. -[4645.82 --> 4646.56] And then he carries -[4646.56 --> 4647.04] this line -[4647.04 --> 4647.88] of argument forward -[4647.88 --> 4648.62] and he concludes -[4648.62 --> 4649.92] in verse 19, -[4651.02 --> 4651.78] Consequently, -[4652.14 --> 4653.14] you are no longer -[4653.14 --> 4654.48] foreigners and strangers -[4654.48 --> 4655.86] but fellow citizens -[4655.86 --> 4656.98] with God's people -[4656.98 --> 4658.20] and members -[4658.20 --> 4660.52] of his household. -[4662.10 --> 4663.40] This is the theological -[4663.40 --> 4664.24] foundation -[4664.24 --> 4665.74] of church unity. -[4666.74 --> 4667.88] This is the theological -[4667.88 --> 4669.22] and spiritual foundation -[4669.22 --> 4670.86] of what unites us, -[4671.00 --> 4671.72] even us, -[4671.78 --> 4672.44] all together. -[4673.58 --> 4674.86] In the early church -[4674.86 --> 4676.70] it was Gentiles, -[4676.84 --> 4677.68] non-Jewish people -[4677.68 --> 4678.62] being included -[4678.62 --> 4679.82] into the lineage -[4679.82 --> 4681.94] of Abraham's heirs. -[4683.84 --> 4685.50] And I suggest to you, -[4686.20 --> 4689.92] I suggest to you -[4689.92 --> 4691.94] that in the modern church, -[4692.62 --> 4692.90] right, -[4693.38 --> 4693.78] today, -[4694.02 --> 4695.10] because most of us, -[4695.42 --> 4696.34] probably all of us, -[4696.38 --> 4697.10] I think actually, -[4697.46 --> 4698.32] are Gentiles, -[4698.42 --> 4699.70] that is we're not Jewish, -[4699.84 --> 4701.36] ethnically or religiously, -[4702.08 --> 4702.30] right, -[4702.70 --> 4703.84] in the modern church -[4703.84 --> 4705.04] what this unity -[4705.04 --> 4706.12] looks like -[4706.12 --> 4709.18] is the transcendence -[4709.18 --> 4710.12] that Revelation -[4710.12 --> 4711.06] will talk about -[4711.06 --> 4711.96] as the church -[4711.96 --> 4712.66] being made up -[4712.66 --> 4713.52] of every nation, -[4714.00 --> 4714.40] tribe, -[4714.58 --> 4715.16] and tongue. -[4716.06 --> 4716.28] Right, -[4716.32 --> 4717.36] the church of Jesus -[4717.36 --> 4719.38] is out of necessity -[4719.38 --> 4720.68] and by consequence -[4720.68 --> 4721.68] of the gospel -[4721.68 --> 4722.64] diverse -[4722.64 --> 4724.00] and multi-ethnic -[4724.00 --> 4725.08] and multi-culture. -[4725.08 --> 4727.58] to be a Christian -[4727.58 --> 4728.52] transcends -[4728.52 --> 4729.82] national identity, -[4730.18 --> 4731.02] to be a Christian -[4731.02 --> 4731.70] transcends -[4731.70 --> 4733.00] racial identity, -[4733.20 --> 4733.96] to be a Christian -[4733.96 --> 4734.76] transcends -[4734.76 --> 4735.80] to include -[4735.80 --> 4736.40] any -[4736.40 --> 4737.50] who believe -[4737.50 --> 4738.42] and therefore -[4738.42 --> 4739.28] have a heavenly -[4739.28 --> 4740.32] citizenship. -[4741.60 --> 4742.52] And so, -[4742.74 --> 4743.32] Paul -[4743.32 --> 4744.72] prays. -[4745.52 --> 4746.52] He prays, -[4747.06 --> 4747.36] right, -[4747.36 --> 4749.14] for this reason -[4749.14 --> 4750.02] I kneel -[4750.02 --> 4751.94] before the Father -[4751.94 --> 4752.96] from whom -[4752.96 --> 4753.86] every family -[4753.86 --> 4754.48] in heaven -[4754.48 --> 4755.44] and on earth -[4755.44 --> 4756.44] derives its name. -[4757.12 --> 4758.00] And then you can jump -[4758.00 --> 4758.80] in chapter 3, -[4758.86 --> 4759.54] verse 17, -[4760.34 --> 4760.58] right, -[4760.62 --> 4760.96] he says, -[4761.46 --> 4762.38] and I pray that you -[4762.38 --> 4763.26] being rooted -[4763.26 --> 4763.96] and established -[4763.96 --> 4764.50] in love -[4764.50 --> 4765.42] may have power -[4765.42 --> 4766.28] together with all -[4766.28 --> 4767.42] the Lord's holy people -[4767.42 --> 4768.64] to grasp how wide -[4768.64 --> 4769.40] and long -[4769.40 --> 4769.92] and high -[4769.92 --> 4770.56] and deep -[4770.56 --> 4771.22] is the love -[4771.22 --> 4771.78] of Christ -[4771.78 --> 4772.72] and to know -[4772.72 --> 4773.80] that this love -[4773.80 --> 4775.08] that surpasses -[4775.08 --> 4775.42] knowledge -[4775.42 --> 4776.32] that you may be -[4776.32 --> 4776.88] filled -[4776.88 --> 4777.76] to the measure -[4777.76 --> 4778.38] of all -[4778.38 --> 4779.16] the fullness -[4779.16 --> 4780.56] of God. -[4782.02 --> 4782.66] The love -[4782.66 --> 4783.54] of Christ -[4783.54 --> 4785.34] for his bride -[4785.34 --> 4786.58] connects -[4786.58 --> 4787.32] intimately -[4787.32 --> 4789.08] and decidedly -[4789.08 --> 4790.14] to the love -[4790.14 --> 4791.02] of his church -[4791.02 --> 4792.84] as his bride, -[4793.10 --> 4794.08] as his people. -[4794.46 --> 4795.10] The love -[4795.10 --> 4795.90] of Christ -[4795.90 --> 4796.44] connects -[4796.44 --> 4797.12] to the love -[4797.12 --> 4797.98] of unity -[4797.98 --> 4799.58] within the church, -[4800.46 --> 4800.58] right, -[4800.62 --> 4801.52] to the oneness -[4801.52 --> 4802.46] of the church. -[4803.26 --> 4803.54] And so, -[4803.62 --> 4804.30] Paul writes -[4804.30 --> 4805.16] to Ephesians -[4805.16 --> 4806.32] in chapter 4, -[4806.32 --> 4807.00] verse 3, -[4807.44 --> 4808.46] make every effort -[4808.46 --> 4809.50] to keep the unity -[4809.50 --> 4810.40] of the spirit -[4810.40 --> 4811.22] through the bond -[4811.22 --> 4811.78] of peace. -[4812.18 --> 4813.42] There is one body -[4813.42 --> 4814.26] and one spirit -[4814.26 --> 4815.10] just as you were -[4815.10 --> 4816.14] called to one hope -[4816.14 --> 4816.94] when you were called, -[4817.06 --> 4817.58] one Lord, -[4817.70 --> 4818.18] one faith, -[4818.30 --> 4818.94] one baptism, -[4819.64 --> 4820.20] one God -[4820.20 --> 4820.76] and Father -[4820.76 --> 4821.90] of all -[4821.90 --> 4823.10] who was over all -[4823.10 --> 4823.94] and through all -[4823.94 --> 4824.88] and in all. -[4827.08 --> 4828.32] The oneness -[4828.32 --> 4830.08] of our faith -[4830.08 --> 4831.50] is illustrative -[4831.50 --> 4833.26] in our unity. -[4833.26 --> 4834.90] the oneness -[4834.90 --> 4835.48] of God -[4835.48 --> 4836.10] himself -[4836.10 --> 4837.60] is held up -[4837.60 --> 4838.54] as an example -[4838.54 --> 4839.76] for the unity -[4839.76 --> 4840.82] of his church. -[4842.00 --> 4842.66] And so, -[4842.74 --> 4843.20] all of this -[4843.20 --> 4843.90] is to say, -[4845.04 --> 4846.64] if you love God, -[4847.32 --> 4848.40] you will -[4848.40 --> 4849.56] love his church, -[4850.50 --> 4851.64] his multicultural, -[4852.32 --> 4853.42] diverse collection -[4853.42 --> 4854.24] of misfits -[4854.24 --> 4855.20] and sinners -[4855.20 --> 4856.48] turned into saints. -[4856.48 --> 4858.72] And if you say -[4858.72 --> 4859.90] that you love Jesus, -[4860.42 --> 4861.58] you will work -[4861.58 --> 4862.86] then to advance -[4862.86 --> 4863.80] this diverse -[4863.80 --> 4865.62] body of believers -[4865.62 --> 4867.08] in our unified mission -[4867.08 --> 4867.64] with him, -[4867.78 --> 4868.40] for him, -[4868.44 --> 4869.26] and to his glory. -[4869.46 --> 4870.64] The two realities -[4870.64 --> 4872.20] cannot be divorced, -[4873.32 --> 4873.88] the bride -[4873.88 --> 4875.10] from her bridegroom -[4875.10 --> 4876.44] who is Jesus. -[4876.44 --> 4878.76] And so, -[4878.86 --> 4879.54] let's take that back -[4879.54 --> 4881.26] now to Revelation. -[4882.20 --> 4883.84] When John writes, -[4883.90 --> 4884.94] when Jesus says, -[4885.36 --> 4886.20] yet this I hold -[4886.20 --> 4886.78] against you, -[4886.84 --> 4887.28] that you have -[4887.28 --> 4888.98] forsaken the love -[4888.98 --> 4890.16] you had at first, -[4891.02 --> 4891.92] I believe -[4891.92 --> 4893.16] that that -[4893.16 --> 4894.36] is a reference -[4894.36 --> 4895.88] to the fact -[4895.88 --> 4896.66] that these -[4896.66 --> 4898.26] people in Ephesus, -[4898.52 --> 4899.54] this church in Ephesus, -[4899.76 --> 4900.94] have divorced -[4900.94 --> 4901.80] themselves -[4901.80 --> 4903.34] from the love -[4903.34 --> 4904.24] of the body -[4904.24 --> 4905.30] of Christ, -[4905.36 --> 4906.00] from the love -[4906.00 --> 4906.80] of the bride -[4906.80 --> 4907.52] of Christ, -[4907.62 --> 4907.94] the love -[4907.94 --> 4908.58] of the church -[4908.58 --> 4909.68] and her unity. -[4910.40 --> 4911.36] And her unity -[4911.36 --> 4912.82] is both internally -[4912.82 --> 4913.70] and locally -[4913.70 --> 4914.44] expressed -[4914.44 --> 4915.48] in emphasis, -[4915.82 --> 4916.62] but also -[4916.62 --> 4917.82] her unity -[4917.82 --> 4920.50] is transcendentally -[4920.50 --> 4921.60] and universally -[4921.60 --> 4922.36] expressed -[4922.36 --> 4924.08] in the church -[4924.08 --> 4924.84] Catholic -[4924.84 --> 4925.90] all times -[4925.90 --> 4927.18] and all places. -[4928.80 --> 4930.08] They have forgotten -[4930.08 --> 4931.92] that if you love -[4931.92 --> 4932.32] Jesus, -[4932.98 --> 4933.80] you must love -[4933.80 --> 4934.50] his church. -[4936.00 --> 4937.70] And so that begs -[4937.70 --> 4938.22] the question -[4938.22 --> 4938.84] for us. -[4939.40 --> 4940.18] Maybe not begs, -[4940.58 --> 4941.38] but I'm going to ask it. -[4941.82 --> 4942.76] It asks the question -[4942.76 --> 4943.22] for us -[4943.22 --> 4943.88] in application. -[4945.40 --> 4946.10] If you say -[4946.10 --> 4946.98] you love Jesus, -[4947.62 --> 4948.72] but you aren't -[4948.72 --> 4949.70] actively loving -[4949.70 --> 4950.64] his church, -[4951.18 --> 4952.14] now actively loving -[4952.14 --> 4952.50] his church -[4952.50 --> 4953.36] might look different -[4953.36 --> 4954.16] for each of you, -[4954.20 --> 4954.38] right? -[4954.44 --> 4954.90] It might mean -[4954.90 --> 4955.64] supporting its -[4955.64 --> 4956.58] ministries financially. -[4957.26 --> 4958.06] It might mean -[4958.06 --> 4958.60] volunteering -[4958.60 --> 4959.28] in the things -[4959.28 --> 4960.04] that we do -[4960.04 --> 4960.58] here together. -[4960.70 --> 4961.24] It might mean -[4961.24 --> 4961.76] participating -[4961.76 --> 4962.74] in our community -[4962.74 --> 4964.06] and in community events. -[4964.06 --> 4964.96] It might mean -[4964.96 --> 4965.48] volunteering -[4965.48 --> 4966.16] to serve -[4966.16 --> 4967.00] in a particular -[4967.00 --> 4967.64] capacity -[4967.64 --> 4968.54] that you are -[4968.54 --> 4969.20] gifted in -[4969.20 --> 4970.04] or called to. -[4971.66 --> 4972.96] If you aren't -[4972.96 --> 4974.16] doing these things, -[4974.54 --> 4975.90] but you say -[4975.90 --> 4976.72] you love Jesus, -[4977.48 --> 4978.02] this letter -[4978.02 --> 4978.70] is for you. -[4980.36 --> 4980.92] Or, -[4981.92 --> 4982.70] maybe this is -[4982.70 --> 4983.84] even more dangerous, -[4984.40 --> 4985.34] if seemingly -[4985.34 --> 4986.38] out of one side -[4986.38 --> 4986.98] of your mouth -[4986.98 --> 4987.80] you sing hymns -[4987.80 --> 4988.72] of praise to God -[4988.72 --> 4989.52] on Sunday, -[4990.02 --> 4990.30] right, -[4990.46 --> 4991.64] in worship together, -[4991.64 --> 4992.52] but then -[4992.52 --> 4993.40] on the other -[4993.40 --> 4994.20] side of your mouth, -[4994.28 --> 4995.12] maybe even as quickly -[4995.12 --> 4996.46] as coffee afterwards, -[4996.82 --> 4997.98] you are slandering -[4997.98 --> 4999.22] or gossiping -[4999.22 --> 5000.46] or talking back -[5000.46 --> 5001.18] or bad -[5001.18 --> 5002.18] about church members -[5002.18 --> 5003.26] or church leadership, -[5003.78 --> 5003.94] right, -[5003.98 --> 5005.60] or just generally -[5005.60 --> 5006.48] about church. -[5007.22 --> 5008.06] But if you are not -[5008.06 --> 5009.38] actively pursuing -[5009.38 --> 5010.94] unity in the church, -[5011.12 --> 5012.62] you are actively -[5012.62 --> 5013.66] or more dangerously, -[5013.96 --> 5014.60] passively -[5014.60 --> 5015.46] contributing -[5015.46 --> 5016.66] to disunity. -[5016.66 --> 5016.80] unity. -[5022.42 --> 5023.98] So hear these words -[5023.98 --> 5026.30] and be careful -[5026.30 --> 5028.84] because your love -[5028.84 --> 5029.40] for Jesus -[5029.40 --> 5031.22] will manifest -[5031.22 --> 5032.48] in a love -[5032.48 --> 5033.24] for his church. -[5035.20 --> 5036.10] We'll give you this -[5036.10 --> 5037.42] as a last word -[5037.42 --> 5038.18] for us -[5038.18 --> 5039.18] before we come -[5039.18 --> 5039.74] to the table -[5039.74 --> 5041.22] where we celebrate -[5041.22 --> 5042.34] this unity, -[5042.54 --> 5043.40] where we live it -[5043.40 --> 5043.94] together. -[5043.94 --> 5048.44] This also relates -[5048.44 --> 5049.70] to that last word -[5049.70 --> 5050.32] of praise -[5050.32 --> 5051.04] or encouragement -[5051.04 --> 5051.92] that Jesus has -[5051.92 --> 5052.48] for the church -[5052.48 --> 5053.74] in verse 6. -[5054.90 --> 5055.94] He comes back -[5055.94 --> 5056.36] and he says, -[5056.46 --> 5057.20] you have this -[5057.20 --> 5058.04] in your favor, -[5058.18 --> 5059.34] you hate the practices -[5059.34 --> 5060.92] of the Nicolaitans, -[5061.02 --> 5063.02] which I also hate. -[5064.28 --> 5064.48] Now, -[5064.52 --> 5065.10] I'm going to be candid -[5065.10 --> 5065.40] with you, -[5065.46 --> 5066.12] Bible scholars -[5066.12 --> 5066.86] are divided -[5066.86 --> 5068.26] on exactly who -[5068.26 --> 5068.84] or what -[5068.84 --> 5070.06] the Nicolaitans are, -[5070.40 --> 5070.78] right, -[5070.80 --> 5071.42] whether they are -[5071.42 --> 5072.42] a group of people -[5072.42 --> 5073.10] who followed -[5073.10 --> 5073.68] the teachings -[5073.68 --> 5074.16] of someone -[5074.16 --> 5074.94] named Nicholas -[5074.94 --> 5076.56] or if they are -[5076.56 --> 5077.28] a group of people -[5077.28 --> 5077.60] who have been -[5077.60 --> 5078.10] called that -[5078.10 --> 5079.08] because the word -[5079.08 --> 5079.62] in Greek, -[5079.80 --> 5080.20] Nikola, -[5080.58 --> 5081.74] means let us eat, -[5082.82 --> 5082.94] right, -[5082.98 --> 5083.82] but what scholars -[5083.82 --> 5084.56] agree on -[5084.56 --> 5085.88] is what's happening -[5085.88 --> 5087.02] in this practice -[5087.02 --> 5087.74] and in this group, -[5087.82 --> 5088.52] what they taught. -[5089.08 --> 5089.88] This group taught -[5089.88 --> 5091.62] that it was okay -[5091.62 --> 5093.10] to eat meat -[5093.10 --> 5094.18] sacrificed -[5094.18 --> 5095.38] to idols -[5095.38 --> 5097.60] and then would -[5097.60 --> 5098.52] take that -[5098.52 --> 5099.50] as a further -[5099.50 --> 5100.60] license -[5100.60 --> 5102.10] into licentious -[5102.10 --> 5102.68] behavior. -[5102.84 --> 5103.06] They would -[5103.06 --> 5103.90] take that -[5103.90 --> 5104.90] and turn it -[5104.90 --> 5106.58] into self-indulgent -[5106.58 --> 5107.44] behavior, -[5107.58 --> 5108.30] into practices -[5108.30 --> 5109.28] that participated -[5109.28 --> 5110.64] in idolatry. -[5111.88 --> 5113.50] Clement of Alexandria, -[5114.40 --> 5116.52] who is a second century, -[5116.68 --> 5117.70] so very early on, -[5117.78 --> 5118.56] church leader, -[5119.22 --> 5119.88] he writes -[5119.88 --> 5121.22] of the Nicolaitans, -[5121.34 --> 5121.76] he says, -[5122.14 --> 5123.64] they abandoned themselves -[5123.64 --> 5124.40] to pleasure -[5124.40 --> 5125.32] like goats, -[5126.28 --> 5127.28] leading a life -[5127.28 --> 5128.96] of self-indulgence. -[5128.96 --> 5129.00] goats. -[5130.08 --> 5130.96] I know some of you -[5130.96 --> 5131.64] have goats -[5131.64 --> 5134.16] and you know -[5134.16 --> 5135.14] how easily -[5135.14 --> 5135.80] they can go -[5135.80 --> 5136.60] from place to place -[5136.60 --> 5137.08] just taking -[5137.08 --> 5137.82] whatever they have. -[5137.98 --> 5138.72] If they break out -[5138.72 --> 5139.24] of their pen -[5139.24 --> 5140.00] into your garden, -[5140.10 --> 5140.50] they will eat -[5140.50 --> 5141.10] all the flowers -[5141.10 --> 5142.18] off of the plants -[5142.18 --> 5142.66] that you have there. -[5142.72 --> 5143.74] They're self-indulgent. -[5143.82 --> 5144.34] They don't care, -[5145.34 --> 5145.48] right? -[5145.48 --> 5145.94] If it's there, -[5146.02 --> 5146.64] they're going to eat it -[5146.64 --> 5147.78] and not even if it's food, -[5147.94 --> 5148.10] right? -[5148.18 --> 5149.32] Goats will eat paper -[5149.32 --> 5150.12] and garbage -[5150.12 --> 5151.28] that you leave out. -[5152.54 --> 5153.46] That's what these people -[5153.46 --> 5153.98] were doing, -[5154.20 --> 5155.50] but their sin -[5155.50 --> 5156.96] is even greater -[5156.96 --> 5157.88] because they were -[5157.88 --> 5159.18] encouraging others -[5159.18 --> 5159.82] to do the same, -[5160.98 --> 5161.16] right? -[5161.18 --> 5161.86] So it's not just -[5161.86 --> 5162.40] that they were eating -[5162.40 --> 5163.42] meat sacrificed to idols -[5163.42 --> 5163.88] because, in fact, -[5164.06 --> 5164.90] you can go to Romans, -[5165.00 --> 5165.42] for instance, -[5165.56 --> 5166.50] and Paul will have -[5166.50 --> 5167.40] a complicated argument -[5167.40 --> 5167.92] about that. -[5168.12 --> 5168.84] It says that in the end, -[5168.90 --> 5170.18] that doesn't really matter -[5170.18 --> 5171.80] because what are idols -[5171.80 --> 5172.76] but wood and stone? -[5173.76 --> 5174.48] What matters -[5174.48 --> 5175.72] is that they are -[5175.72 --> 5177.14] enticing people -[5177.14 --> 5178.62] away from the truth. -[5178.70 --> 5180.18] They are driving people -[5180.18 --> 5181.64] into sin. -[5183.64 --> 5185.62] That's the disunity -[5185.62 --> 5187.72] of the Nicolaitans. -[5190.56 --> 5192.56] That's the celebration. -[5192.76 --> 5193.40] That's why they are -[5193.40 --> 5194.52] held up again -[5194.52 --> 5196.70] and why Jesus says -[5196.70 --> 5197.68] he hates them -[5197.68 --> 5199.82] because they're breaking -[5199.82 --> 5202.32] the unity of his bride. -[5203.58 --> 5205.38] Self-indulgence divides -[5205.38 --> 5206.34] the church. -[5208.06 --> 5209.38] Living in anticipation -[5209.38 --> 5210.68] of the return of the king -[5210.68 --> 5211.80] invites us to be -[5211.80 --> 5213.02] a people of patient -[5213.02 --> 5214.40] endurance and faith -[5214.40 --> 5215.72] who can live rejoicing -[5215.72 --> 5217.06] in the world to come -[5217.06 --> 5218.20] and with joy -[5218.20 --> 5219.24] in the world that is -[5219.24 --> 5221.26] holding on to the love -[5221.26 --> 5222.90] that holds on to us, -[5223.34 --> 5225.04] living it boldly. -[5225.66 --> 5228.22] We live this love boldly -[5228.22 --> 5230.36] when we desire -[5230.36 --> 5231.96] and work towards -[5231.96 --> 5233.16] and maintain -[5233.16 --> 5234.62] and pursue -[5234.62 --> 5235.60] the unity -[5235.60 --> 5237.24] of the church. -[5237.78 --> 5239.78] We live this love boldly -[5239.78 --> 5240.40] when we celebrate -[5240.94 --> 5242.20] our diversity -[5242.20 --> 5243.38] as a reflection -[5243.38 --> 5245.16] of the kingdom come -[5245.16 --> 5246.28] and the kingdom coming -[5246.28 --> 5247.58] as the new creation -[5247.58 --> 5248.72] of all nations, -[5248.96 --> 5249.24] tribes, -[5249.36 --> 5249.78] and tongues -[5249.78 --> 5251.04] stand around -[5251.04 --> 5252.72] the table of our Lord -[5252.72 --> 5254.32] feasting together -[5254.32 --> 5255.80] with the Lamb. -[5258.10 --> 5261.14] This is who -[5261.14 --> 5262.68] we are called -[5262.68 --> 5263.94] to be. -[5264.98 --> 5266.06] And in responding -[5266.06 --> 5266.84] to that call, -[5266.94 --> 5268.64] we come to this table now -[5268.64 --> 5270.04] both in anticipation -[5270.04 --> 5271.22] of that feast, -[5271.32 --> 5273.04] but also to feed us -[5273.04 --> 5275.14] and to fuel us -[5275.14 --> 5276.56] towards -[5276.56 --> 5278.00] that feast. -[5278.88 --> 5280.22] This is the table -[5280.22 --> 5280.98] around which -[5280.98 --> 5281.72] we stand -[5281.72 --> 5282.62] united. -[5283.56 --> 5284.32] And so, -[5284.50 --> 5285.32] we are going to come -[5285.32 --> 5286.64] to this table together, -[5286.76 --> 5287.50] which is why we've -[5287.50 --> 5289.22] also invited the kids -[5289.22 --> 5289.86] to come back -[5289.86 --> 5290.74] and why we invite them -[5290.74 --> 5291.22] to come -[5291.22 --> 5292.96] so that we might come -[5292.96 --> 5293.86] united -[5293.86 --> 5295.24] to the table. -[5295.78 --> 5296.98] So that we might have -[5296.98 --> 5298.32] heard the promises -[5298.32 --> 5299.64] of God given in baptism, -[5299.80 --> 5300.74] we might have seen -[5300.74 --> 5302.02] the call of God -[5302.02 --> 5303.62] spoken in the word -[5303.62 --> 5304.88] and that we might now -[5304.88 --> 5306.30] live that together -[5306.30 --> 5308.40] here around his table. -[5308.88 --> 5309.66] Coming to the table, -[5309.78 --> 5310.70] we will move through -[5310.70 --> 5312.18] a liturgy together. -[5312.32 --> 5312.88] There will be -[5312.88 --> 5314.16] responsive portions -[5314.16 --> 5315.86] on the screen behind me. -[5316.00 --> 5316.62] I encourage you -[5316.62 --> 5317.32] to speak that -[5317.32 --> 5318.34] as we come. -[5320.00 --> 5321.32] Lift up your hearts. -[5322.32 --> 5323.82] Give the love to the Lord. -[5323.82 --> 5325.34] Let us give thanks -[5325.34 --> 5326.00] to the Lord. -[5329.38 --> 5330.44] Let's pray together. -[5333.50 --> 5334.52] With joy, -[5334.70 --> 5335.86] we praise you, -[5336.32 --> 5337.02] gracious God. -[5337.86 --> 5338.86] For you have created -[5338.86 --> 5339.52] heaven and earth, -[5339.60 --> 5340.16] have made us -[5340.16 --> 5340.86] in your image, -[5340.94 --> 5341.70] have kept covenant -[5341.70 --> 5342.20] with us, -[5342.46 --> 5343.68] even when we fell -[5343.68 --> 5344.26] into sin. -[5344.98 --> 5346.34] We give you thanks -[5346.34 --> 5347.48] for Jesus Christ, -[5347.90 --> 5349.14] who by his life, -[5349.30 --> 5349.52] death, -[5349.60 --> 5350.20] and resurrection -[5350.20 --> 5351.34] opened to us -[5351.34 --> 5352.64] the way of life -[5352.64 --> 5353.70] everlasting. -[5354.80 --> 5355.20] Amen. -[5358.72 --> 5359.28] Jesus, -[5359.74 --> 5361.12] before he suffered, -[5361.48 --> 5363.20] gave us this memorial -[5363.20 --> 5364.52] of his sacrifice -[5364.52 --> 5366.88] until he comes again. -[5367.88 --> 5368.72] The Lord Jesus, -[5368.98 --> 5370.44] on the night he was betrayed, -[5371.08 --> 5371.64] took bread. -[5372.46 --> 5373.82] And when he had given thanks, -[5373.98 --> 5375.20] he broke it and said, -[5375.36 --> 5376.86] this is my body, -[5377.30 --> 5378.46] which is for you. -[5379.10 --> 5380.66] Do this in remembrance -[5380.66 --> 5381.84] of me. -[5382.64 --> 5384.58] In the same way, -[5384.80 --> 5385.76] he took the cup -[5385.76 --> 5386.84] after supper -[5386.84 --> 5387.80] and said, -[5388.38 --> 5388.90] this cup -[5388.90 --> 5390.16] is the new covenant -[5390.16 --> 5391.58] in my blood. -[5394.80 --> 5396.08] Do this -[5396.08 --> 5396.90] in remembrance -[5396.90 --> 5398.12] of me. -[5399.28 --> 5400.74] For whenever we eat -[5400.74 --> 5401.62] this bread -[5401.62 --> 5402.74] and drink -[5402.74 --> 5403.66] this cup, -[5403.78 --> 5404.42] we proclaim -[5404.42 --> 5405.34] the Lord's death -[5405.34 --> 5406.20] and resurrection -[5406.20 --> 5407.68] until he comes -[5407.68 --> 5408.62] again. -[5408.62 --> 5412.10] this is the mystery -[5412.10 --> 5413.82] of our faith. -[5414.78 --> 5415.78] For the rest -[5415.78 --> 5416.58] of your faith, -[5416.58 --> 5416.88] we affirm -[5416.88 --> 5421.68] with joy. -[5422.36 --> 5423.00] Your coming, -[5423.18 --> 5423.68] we await -[5423.68 --> 5424.28] with hope. -[5424.94 --> 5426.30] Glory be to you, -[5426.52 --> 5427.00] Lord Jesus. -[5428.34 --> 5429.30] Church family, -[5429.40 --> 5430.74] the Lord has prepared -[5430.74 --> 5431.66] his table -[5431.66 --> 5432.78] for all who -[5432.78 --> 5434.32] trust in him -[5434.32 --> 5435.08] and all who -[5435.08 --> 5436.48] love him. -[5436.48 --> 5437.80] and so, -[5438.00 --> 5439.04] come to this -[5439.04 --> 5439.68] table, -[5440.18 --> 5441.06] you who have -[5441.06 --> 5441.86] much faith -[5441.86 --> 5442.56] and you who -[5442.56 --> 5442.98] would like -[5442.98 --> 5443.64] to have more. -[5444.28 --> 5445.16] Come to this -[5445.16 --> 5445.44] table, -[5445.58 --> 5446.10] you who have -[5446.10 --> 5446.74] been to this -[5446.74 --> 5447.60] sacrament often -[5447.60 --> 5448.52] and you who -[5448.52 --> 5449.28] have not been -[5449.28 --> 5450.34] for a long time -[5450.34 --> 5451.34] or you who are -[5451.34 --> 5452.20] coming in faith -[5452.20 --> 5453.20] for the first time. -[5453.86 --> 5454.62] You who have -[5454.62 --> 5455.58] tried to follow -[5455.58 --> 5456.02] Jesus -[5456.02 --> 5457.28] and you who -[5457.28 --> 5458.44] have failed. -[5458.98 --> 5459.68] Come to this -[5459.68 --> 5460.40] table if you are -[5460.40 --> 5461.58] here with us -[5461.58 --> 5462.30] or at home -[5462.30 --> 5463.42] online because -[5463.42 --> 5464.32] it is Christ -[5464.32 --> 5465.52] who invites -[5465.52 --> 5467.04] us here. -[5467.94 --> 5468.64] The gifts -[5468.64 --> 5469.22] of God -[5469.22 --> 5470.44] for the people -[5470.44 --> 5471.52] of God. -[5472.94 --> 5473.80] As we come -[5473.80 --> 5474.52] to this table, -[5475.28 --> 5475.92] the ushers -[5475.92 --> 5476.82] are going to -[5476.82 --> 5478.20] move back -[5478.20 --> 5479.02] row by row -[5479.02 --> 5479.70] inviting you -[5479.70 --> 5480.32] to come to the -[5480.32 --> 5480.56] front. -[5480.68 --> 5481.06] We will then -[5481.06 --> 5481.82] gather in a -[5481.82 --> 5483.12] circle around -[5483.12 --> 5484.96] here and we -[5484.96 --> 5486.00] will pass the -[5486.00 --> 5487.14] elements around -[5487.14 --> 5487.78] the circle. -[5488.24 --> 5489.56] As you receive -[5489.56 --> 5491.14] the tray of -[5491.14 --> 5492.00] bread and as -[5492.00 --> 5492.78] you pass that -[5492.78 --> 5493.36] to the person -[5493.36 --> 5494.16] beside you, -[5494.56 --> 5495.14] we invite you -[5495.14 --> 5495.88] to say the -[5495.88 --> 5496.78] body of Christ -[5496.78 --> 5498.06] given for you -[5498.06 --> 5498.54] and then as -[5498.54 --> 5499.18] you pass the -[5499.18 --> 5500.08] tray of juice, -[5500.22 --> 5500.72] we invite you -[5500.72 --> 5501.66] to say the -[5501.66 --> 5502.62] blood of Christ -[5502.62 --> 5503.78] shed for you. -[5505.10 --> 5505.54] We are going -[5505.54 --> 5506.54] to invite the -[5506.54 --> 5507.44] worship leaders -[5507.44 --> 5508.94] and elders to -[5508.94 --> 5509.56] come up to the -[5509.56 --> 5510.16] front who are -[5510.16 --> 5510.94] serving so that -[5510.94 --> 5512.04] we can serve -[5512.04 --> 5512.62] them first and -[5512.62 --> 5513.04] then they will -[5513.04 --> 5514.24] lead us in song. -[5514.66 --> 5515.22] As well, -[5515.36 --> 5515.98] during our -[5515.98 --> 5516.56] Lord's Supper -[5516.56 --> 5517.44] service, if you -[5517.44 --> 5518.16] would like prayer -[5518.16 --> 5518.86] or if you want -[5518.86 --> 5520.20] to connect with -[5520.20 --> 5521.16] someone before -[5521.16 --> 5521.80] coming up to -[5521.80 --> 5522.22] the table, -[5522.22 --> 5522.70] there are -[5522.70 --> 5523.24] people who -[5523.24 --> 5523.52] will be -[5523.52 --> 5524.62] available in -[5524.62 --> 5524.98] the back -[5524.98 --> 5525.48] room there. -[5525.68 --> 5526.14] They have -[5526.14 --> 5526.88] name tags on, -[5527.04 --> 5527.44] there should be -[5527.44 --> 5528.08] a yellow square -[5528.08 --> 5528.58] on them, you -[5528.58 --> 5529.16] can grab them, -[5529.54 --> 5530.00] they will pray -[5530.00 --> 5531.44] with you and -[5531.44 --> 5532.56] then you may -[5532.56 --> 5533.76] come to the -[5533.76 --> 5534.04] table. -[5534.42 --> 5534.64] I'm going to -[5534.64 --> 5535.92] invite the elders -[5535.92 --> 5536.38] and worship -[5536.38 --> 5537.16] leaders to come -[5537.16 --> 5538.24] to the front at -[5538.24 --> 5538.58] this time. -[5538.58 --> 5538.64] Thank you. -[5538.64 --> 5540.64] Thank you. -[5540.64 --> 5542.64] Thank you. -[5542.64 --> 5544.64] Thank you. -[5544.64 --> 5545.64] Thank you. -[5545.64 --> 5546.64] Thank you. -[5546.64 --> 5547.64] Thank you. -[5547.64 --> 5548.64] Thank you. -[5548.64 --> 5549.64] Thank you. -[5549.64 --> 5550.64] Thank you. -[5550.64 --> 5551.64] Thank you. -[5551.64 --> 5552.18] Thank you. -[5552.22 --> 5553.22] God. -[5553.22 --> 5553.24] God. -[5553.24 --> 5553.76] Body of Christ -[5553.76 --> 5554.50] given for you. -[5556.50 --> 5557.38] Body of Christ -[5557.38 --> 5558.00] given for you. -[5563.02 --> 5563.82] Body of Christ -[5563.82 --> 5564.48] given for you. -[5565.38 --> 5566.08] Body of Christ -[5566.08 --> 5566.68] given for you. -[5566.68 --> 5576.74] The Body of Christ -[5576.74 --> 5578.74] given for you. -[5578.74 --> 5591.94] eat and remember -[5608.74 --> 5611.98] the blood of Christ shed for you -[5611.98 --> 5615.98] the blood of Christ shed for you -[5617.56 --> 5625.46] the blood of Christ shed for you -[5625.46 --> 5627.52] the blood of Christ shed for you -[5638.74 --> 5668.72] Thank you. -[5668.74 --> 5698.72] Thank you. -[5698.74 --> 5728.72] Thank you. -[5728.74 --> 5758.72] Thank you. -[5758.74 --> 5760.74] Thank you. -[5788.74 --> 5793.74] Oh my soul rejoice. -[5794.74 --> 5798.74] Take joy my King. -[5798.74 --> 5810.74] May it be a sweet, sweet sound in your ear. -[5810.74 --> 5822.74] May it be a sweet, sweet sound in your ear. -[5822.74 --> 5832.74] May it be a sweet, sweet sound in your ear. -[5832.74 --> 5834.74] I exalt thee. -[5862.74 --> 5868.74] I exalt thee, I exalt thee, I exalt thee. -[5868.74 --> 5878.74] Oh Lord, I exalt thee. -[5878.74 --> 5888.74] I exalt thee, I exalt thee. -[5888.74 --> 5898.74] Oh Lord, I exalt thee. -[5898.74 --> 5902.74] I exalt thee. -[5902.74 --> 5908.74] I exalt thee. -[5908.74 --> 5910.74] Oh Lord. -[5910.74 --> 5912.74] Oh Lord. -[5912.74 --> 5914.74] Oh Lord. -[5914.74 --> 5920.74] Oh Lord. -[5920.74 --> 5930.74] Come, thou long-expective Jesus, born to set thy people free. -[5930.74 --> 5943.74] Come, thou long-expective Jesus, born to set thy people free. -[5943.74 --> 5955.74] From our fears and sins release us, let us find our rest in thee. -[5955.74 --> 5957.74] Jesus, O Lord. -[5957.74 --> 5959.74] Jesus, strength and consolation. -[5959.74 --> 5965.74] Hope of all the earth, thou art. -[5965.74 --> 5977.74] Dear desire of every nation, joy of every longing heart. -[5977.74 --> 5987.74] Born thy people to deliver, born a child and yet a king. -[5987.74 --> 5999.74] Born to reign in us forever, now thy gracious kingdom free. -[5999.74 --> 6010.74] By thy own eternal spirit, rule in all our hearts alone. -[6010.74 --> 6024.74] By thine all-sufficient merit, raise us to thy glorious throne. -[6040.74 --> 6042.74] Lord, O Lord. -[6042.74 --> 6043.74] Lord, O Lord. -[6043.74 --> 6044.74] Lord, O Lord. -[6044.74 --> 6045.74] Lord, O Lord. -[6045.74 --> 6046.74] Lord, O Lord. -[6046.74 --> 6047.74] Lord, O Lord. -[6047.74 --> 6055.74] Angels from the crowns of glory, bring your fight for all the earth. -[6055.74 --> 6062.74] You who sang creation's story, now proclaim the Zion's word. -[6062.74 --> 6069.74] Come and worship, come and worship, worship Christ the newborn King. -[6069.74 --> 6071.74] Lord, o Lord. -[6071.74 --> 6072.74] Who've seen you from today, come my boy. -[6072.74 --> 6073.74] You who singでき strong, thank you the alt iten. -[6073.74 --> 6074.74] Since your cuntic avaient his son, put some law and zwei and onepf. -[6074.74 --> 6075.74] To belong to whom your own Ezra, hila will know the Murray. -[6075.74 --> 6095.24] If there's love to save us whereas your eternal truth,miyor us ungly Ci -[6095.24 --> 6097.24] new born King -[6099.24 --> 6103.24] know an infant knowing you in me -[6103.24 --> 6107.24] will share his father's throne -[6107.24 --> 6111.24] gather all the nations to him -[6111.24 --> 6115.24] every knee shall then grow down -[6115.24 --> 6119.24] come and worship, come and worship -[6119.24 --> 6123.24] worship Christ the new born King -[6123.24 --> 6127.24] O creation, joy -[6127.24 --> 6129.24] and praising God the -[6129.24 --> 6131.24] Father, Spirit, Son -[6131.24 --> 6133.24] evermore -[6133.24 --> 6135.24] your voice is -[6135.24 --> 6137.24] raising to the eternal -[6137.24 --> 6139.24] free in time -[6139.24 --> 6141.24] come and worship -[6141.24 --> 6143.24] come and worship -[6143.24 --> 6145.24] worship Christ the -[6145.24 --> 6147.24] new born King -[6147.24 --> 6149.24] worship Christ the -[6149.24 --> 6151.24] new born King -[6151.24 --> 6153.24] home -[6153.24 --> 6155.24] Amen. -[6183.24 --> 6188.44] We worship and adore you. -[6188.44 --> 6197.44] Glorify thy name in all the earth. -[6197.44 --> 6203.94] Glorify thy name. -[6203.94 --> 6208.94] Glorify thy name. -[6208.94 --> 6218.94] Glorify thy name in all the earth. -[6218.94 --> 6223.94] Jesus, we love you. -[6223.94 --> 6229.94] We worship, we adore you. -[6229.94 --> 6237.94] Glorify thy name in all the earth. -[6237.94 --> 6243.94] Glorify thy name. -[6243.94 --> 6247.94] Glorify thy name. -[6247.94 --> 6259.94] Glorify thy name in all the earth. -[6259.94 --> 6265.94] Spirit, we love you. -[6265.94 --> 6269.94] We worship and adore you. -[6269.94 --> 6279.94] Glorify thy name in all the earth. -[6279.94 --> 6285.94] Glorify thy name. -[6285.94 --> 6289.94] Glorify thy name. -[6289.94 --> 6293.94] Glorify thy name in all the earth. -[6293.94 --> 6303.94] Glorify thy name. -[6303.94 --> 6305.94] Glorify thy name. -[6305.94 --> 6307.94] Glorify thy name. -[6307.94 --> 6319.94] Glorify thy name in all the earth. -[6319.94 --> 6321.94] Glorify thy name in all the earth. -[6321.94 --> 6327.90] Glorify thy name. -[6327.94 --> 6335.00] Glorify thy name. -[6335.00 --> 6361.72] Rejoice, the Lord is King, your Lord and King adore. -[6361.72 --> 6371.10] Rejoice, the thanksgiving, triumph nevermore. -[6371.10 --> 6384.90] Lift up your heart, lift up your voice, rejoice again, I say, rejoice. -[6384.90 --> 6393.94] His kingdom cannot fail, he rules nor have an end. -[6394.36 --> 6402.28] The keys of death and hell to Christ the Lord are King. -[6402.28 --> 6414.28] Lift up your heart, lift up your voice, rejoice again, I say, rejoice. -[6414.28 --> 6424.28] Since that God's right hand, till all is first amid, -[6425.50 --> 6433.28] bow down at his command and fall beneath his feet. -[6433.28 --> 6447.38] Lift up your heart, lift up your voice, rejoice again, I say, rejoice. -[6447.38 --> 6457.38] Rejoice in glorious hope, for Christ the judge shall come. -[6457.38 --> 6466.38] To gather all his saints to their eternal home. -[6466.38 --> 6474.38] We soon shall hear your angels' voice. -[6474.38 --> 6482.38] The trumpet of God shall sound with rejoice. -[6482.38 --> 6506.84] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords, he is wonderful. -[6506.84 --> 6522.00] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords, he is wonderful. -[6522.00 --> 6538.00] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords, he is wonderful. -[6538.00 --> 6553.00] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords, he is wonderful. -[6553.00 --> 6582.98] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords, he is wonderful. -[6582.98 --> 6612.96] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords, he is wonderful. -[6612.96 --> 6615.96] Wonderful. -[6642.96 --> 6672.94] Thank you. -[6672.96 --> 6702.94] Thank you. -[6702.96 --> 6732.94] Thank you. -[6732.96 --> 6762.94] Thank you. -[6762.96 --> 6792.94] Thank you. -[6792.96 --> 6794.96] Thank you. -[6799.60 --> 6803.62] We're going to end our time at the table with a prayer. -[6804.18 --> 6809.30] Following that prayer, I'm going to invite Eric Van Heusen, Chair of Council, up to the front one more time. -[6809.30 --> 6839.28] Let's pray together. -[6839.30 --> 6843.22] We're going to join us with a mission of your holiness. -[6844.90 --> 6847.42] United, we come to this table. -[6847.64 --> 6850.22] United, we go on mission. -[6850.22 --> 6853.46] In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. -[6853.46 --> 6860.56] Okay. -[6860.56 --> 6875.76] At this time, we're going to do a little appreciation for Sylvia. -[6875.76 --> 6879.28] But before I call her up, I have one other announcement from Council for everyone. -[6879.28 --> 6884.00] As was mentioned, has been mentioned every week, usually in December, as we get close -[6884.00 --> 6885.00] to the end of the year. -[6885.00 --> 6890.12] We just want to encourage everyone to make sure that your givings are up and that we -[6890.12 --> 6894.62] can make sure that we are fulfilling our budget obligations for the year. -[6894.62 --> 6898.80] So we'd like to give you a reminder for that at this time of the year. -[6898.80 --> 6903.20] But what we really want to do right now is invite Sylvie up front here for a brief little -[6903.20 --> 6906.26] moment. -[6906.26 --> 6912.62] For those of you who don't know, Sylvia is retiring from being our church administrator. -[6912.62 --> 6917.36] So if you walked in this morning and you're wondering why the cake's out there, we're going -[6917.36 --> 6921.96] to have a little bit of time of appreciation for Sylvia. -[6921.96 --> 6926.30] Sylvia, we just want to thank you on behalf of Council and everyone here for your eight -[6926.30 --> 6928.16] and a half years of service. -[6928.16 --> 6932.20] Through those times, I'm sure, especially the last couple of years with COVID, I'm sure -[6932.20 --> 6939.52] it was difficult dealing with changing pastors, changing chairs of council. -[6939.52 --> 6944.26] The last one's a real piece, but that's okay. -[6944.26 --> 6947.26] I just want to thank you for your time and your appreciation. -[6947.26 --> 6954.00] And I brought, we got you this beautiful bouquet of flowers that we want to give to you. -[6954.00 --> 6958.64] As well, we thought we would get you a gift. -[6958.64 --> 6964.20] And I did a lot of research and I decided that I would go way out on a limb here and get you -[6964.20 --> 6967.94] one of these. -[6967.94 --> 6973.94] But before I give you this, as you can see, I didn't get a vase for the flowers because -[6973.94 --> 6975.26] I went all out on this. -[6975.26 --> 6977.26] I blew the budget on this fishing rod here. -[6977.26 --> 6983.50] But I figured you'd have a vase at home. -[6983.50 --> 6987.98] I went to the best fishing store in town, McFrugal's. -[6987.98 --> 6990.26] And I bought this expensive fishing rod. -[6990.26 --> 6991.26] And I bought this expensive fishing rod. -[6991.26 --> 6995.26] It comes with a little bit of an oath and vow you have to make to it. -[6995.26 --> 7000.26] So I would like you to repeat after me if you don't mind. -[7000.26 --> 7007.26] I, Sylvia, take you this fishing rod as my retirement friend. -[7007.26 --> 7013.26] I, Sylvia, take you this fishing rod as my retirement friend. -[7013.26 --> 7014.26] And you don't have. -[7014.26 --> 7015.48] I will love you. -[7015.48 --> 7016.86] dép смотреть -[7016.86 --> 7017.98] I will love you. -[7017.98 --> 7020.92] I will cherish you. -[7020.92 --> 7022.26] I will cherish you. -[7022.62 --> 7026.10] I will take good care of you. -[7026.10 --> 7028.00] I will take good care of you. -[7028.00 --> 7035.04] When your time is done fishing rod, I will retire you graciously. -[7035.04 --> 7037.44] When your time is done near fishing -[7037.44 --> 7040.34] rod, I will retire you graciously. -[7040.34 --> 7045.74] I will not lie about any situation that involves this fishing rod. -[7045.74 --> 7050.52] I will not lie about any situation that involves this fishing rod. -[7050.52 --> 7055.38] I will not exaggerate any situation that involves this fishing rod. -[7055.38 --> 7060.30] I will not exaggerate any situation that involves this fishing rod. -[7060.30 --> 7063.52] Only truth and honesty will be spoken. -[7063.52 --> 7066.86] Only truth and honesty will be spoken. -[7066.86 --> 7072.54] And finally, I will be a great partner to my husband who will want me to go fishing more now that I am retired. -[7077.88 --> 7082.30] I will be a great partner to my husband who will want to go fishing more. -[7083.42 --> 7085.78] Well done. I present you this fishing rod. -[7086.24 --> 7088.26] Thank you very much. Round of applause. Thank you. -[7096.86 --> 7097.86] Thank you. -[7102.86 --> 7108.00] Does anyone else remember when Homer Simpson gave Marge a bowling ball that said Homer on it? -[7110.22 --> 7111.78] Frank, did you have a hand in that gift? -[7114.90 --> 7116.02] It would have been a... Oh. -[7117.52 --> 7119.00] Eric, he's telling you how to do your job. -[7120.72 --> 7122.78] We do want to say thank you, Sylvia. -[7123.20 --> 7126.66] As staff, we have organized a separate time for that, -[7126.66 --> 7129.06] so I won't take any more of our time this morning, -[7129.26 --> 7135.26] except to make sure you hear the invitation to stick around for cake and to congratulate Sylvia. -[7135.38 --> 7141.42] One of the things she loves most is when people queue up to fill her next 45 minutes with personal interaction and time. -[7141.60 --> 7143.28] So make sure you do that well. -[7144.38 --> 7149.40] I'm going to invite you as you are able to stand, and we can receive God's blessing today. -[7156.66 --> 7162.04] We go with God who goes with us, and we go together. -[7163.04 --> 7165.00] Receive the blessing of God. -[7166.26 --> 7169.00] God, go before you to prepare a way for you. -[7169.48 --> 7172.02] God, go behind you to protect you. -[7172.62 --> 7174.68] God, go beneath you to support you. -[7174.76 --> 7177.64] And God, go beside you to befriend you. -[7177.64 --> 7179.32] Do not be afraid. -[7179.76 --> 7181.72] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[7181.84 --> 7188.40] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[7189.40 --> 7190.04] Amen. -[7190.04 --> 7190.12] Amen. -[7190.12 --> 7210.38] Should nothing of our efforts stand, -[7210.38 --> 7216.38] No legacy survive. -[7216.38 --> 7222.88] Unless the Lord does raise the house, -[7223.34 --> 7228.62] In vain its builders strive. -[7229.36 --> 7235.04] To you who boast tomorrow's game, -[7235.04 --> 7240.66] Tell me what is your life. -[7241.24 --> 7247.00] A mist that vanishes at dawn, -[7247.00 --> 7252.68] All glory be to Christ. -[7252.68 --> 7259.42] All glory be to Christ our King. -[7259.42 --> 7265.32] All glory be to Christ. -[7265.32 --> 7271.80] His rule and reign will ever sing. -[7271.80 --> 7278.06] All glory be to Christ. -[7278.06 --> 7287.64] Will be done His kingdom come on earth as this of all. -[7287.64 --> 7291.44] Who is Himself our daily? -[7291.44 --> 7295.78] We'll praise Him, the Lord of love. -[7296.22 --> 7303.90] We'll give you water, satisfy the mercy with the Christ. -[7303.90 --> 7307.48] Will take the cup of life. -[7307.48 --> 7311.80] We'll give you water, satisfy the mercy with the Lord. -[7311.80 --> 7316.10] All glory be to Christ our King. -[7316.10 --> 7319.86] All glory be to Christ. -[7319.86 --> 7324.16] His rule and reign will ever sing. -[7324.16 --> 7328.02] All glory be to Christ our King. -[7328.02 --> 7338.00] All glory be to Christ our King. -[7338.00 --> 7341.32] All glory be to Christ our King. -[7341.32 --> 7349.38] All glory be to Christ our King. -[7349.38 --> 7379.36] All glory be to Christ our King. -[7379.36 --> 7386.36] All glory be to Christ our King. -[7386.36 --> 7392.36] His rule and reign will ever sing. -[7392.36 --> 7399.36] All glory be to Christ. -[7399.36 --> 7416.98] All glory be to Christ our King. -[7416.98 --> 7446.96] Thank you. -[7446.98 --> 7476.96] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - December 12, 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - December 12, 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index abd182120df9d8709f849f739fe8c42f2d8d9c17..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - December 12, 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,72 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction to worship service with prayer and reading from Revelation -• Singing hymns, including "O Come, All Ye Faithful" -• Prayer and invocation in Jesus' name -• Reading from Scripture (Revelation) -• Worship songs and praise to God, focusing on the name of Christ -• References to the name and titles of Jesus Christ, including Wonderful Counselor, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, Emmanuel -• Praise and worship songs, with repetition of "Adore" and "Come let us adore" -• Expressions of gratitude and thanks to God/Jesus -• Biblical references, specifically from Isaiah (though not explicitly stated) -• Discussion about Christmas carols -• Favorite songs to sing at Christmas -• Mr. Baker's visit for children's worship time -• Special gifts and activities during worship time -• Budget passed unanimously in congregational meeting -• Prayer request for healing, exams, and celebrations -• Acknowledgement of those suffering or struggling due to various circumstances -• Frustration with current circumstances and requests for God's help and guidance -• Reflection on Jesus' birth and second coming -• Request to receive God's word and take action based on it -• Discussion of modern culture's fascination with fortune telling and psychics -• Sharing humorous examples of fortunes from cookies -• Introduction to today's sermon topic: ancient fortune tellers (the magi or wise men) -• Matthew 2, verses 1-12 are read from the Bible -• The story of Jesus' birth is told, including the visit of wise men and King Herod's response -• Herod orders the slaughter of baby boys in Bethlehem to try to kill Jesus -• Mary and Joseph flee to Egypt with Jesus after being warned by an angel -• A comparison is made between the actual events described in Matthew 2 and the way Christmas is often portrayed in popular culture -• The Gospel of Luke and Matthew provide limited details about Jesus' birth -• There are only seven verses in Luke's gospel about Jesus' death -• Matthew's gospel dedicates an entire chapter to the magi and their interaction with Herod -• The Bible doesn't specify how many wise men there were or where they came from, but historical evidence suggests they may have been from Arabia -• The magi were Gentiles, non-Jewish, pagan idol worshippers who followed stars for guidance -• Matthew's audience is predominantly Jewish and his gospel targets them -• The magi are described as wealthy, influential, pagan astrologers who worship stars and their influence on culture -• King Herod is portrayed as a bully and power-hungry Jewish king who murders babies to maintain control when he hears of the birth of Jesus -• Herod's actions mirror those of Pharaoh in Exodus, who was scared of losing his power over slaves -• The magi are contrasted with Herod in that they come to worship Jesus, not to influence or control him -• The story highlights the tension between God's people and their rulers, who prioritize power over worship and relationship with God -• Matthew overlays the birth of Christ with the Exodus story, highlighting the reversal of roles between God's people and the world -• The magi represent Moses and the Israelites in seeking to worship a newborn king, while Herod represents Pharaoh in opposing God's plan -• Jesus is compared to Moses as both fled Egypt to escape oppression -• Matthew's bookend narrative shows the world coming to worship Jesus at birth and Jesus sending his followers to the world at the end of his ministry -• The passage redefines the boundaries of who Jesus came to save, including those considered untrustworthy or unruly -• Jesus came for all people, including unexpected outsiders like the wise men from afar -• The story of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection is seen as a demonstration of God's love and redemption for humanity -• The struggle between living in response to a messy world by fighting for power or worshiping Jesus -• The importance of stripping away romanticized ideas of Christmas and seeing it for what it truly is -• The distinction between being residents of this place (fighting for power) versus exiles (worshiping Jesus) -• The contrast between Herod's fear-driven response and the wise men's reverent search for Jesus -• The call to worship Jesus in reverence, despite the messiness of the world -• A prayer asking God not to let people get distracted by the mess and instead seek Him in reverence -• The speaker describes a personal relationship with Emmanuel, where they find comfort and hope in his righteousness and suffering. -• The speaker reflects on Jesus' life, death, and resurrection as a means of salvation. -• The table of the Lord is discussed as a place where people can recognize and receive Jesus spiritually. -• The Lord's Supper is described, including Jesus breaking bread and giving thanks, and the significance of eating and drinking in remembrance of him. -• The sacrament is emphasized as a way for church members to proclaim their faith and trust in Jesus. -• Invitation to come to the Lord's table -• Sincere belief in Jesus as Savior -• Offering of gifts for the people of God -• Thank you responses -• Communion service, including taking bread and wine -• Worship song: "What a Beautiful Name" -• Reflection on the name of Jesus Christ -• The name of Jesus Christ is powerful and glorious -• The blood of Christ was shed for forgiveness of sins -• Prayer to God, thanking Him for feeding them in the sacrament -• Asking God to send them out in His power to worship, work, and glorify Him -• Benediction from the pastor, including a blessing and prayer for peace -• Praise and adoration of God -• Overcoming sin, sadness, and doubt through God's eternal gladness -• Jesus as a savior and rescuer -• Thanksgiving expressions \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - December 12, 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - December 12, 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 60dd17512f5e011362d0983a03e912418755dbf9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - December 12, 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1191 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[239.98 --> 241.98] Thank you. -[269.98 --> 271.98] Thank you. -[299.98 --> 301.98] Thank you. -[329.98 --> 331.98] Thank you. -[359.98 --> 361.98] Thank you. -[389.98 --> 391.98] Thank you. -[391.98 --> 393.98] Thank you. -[421.98 --> 423.98] Thank you. -[423.98 --> 425.98] Thank you. -[425.98 --> 434.62] us. The light of this joy shines in a world full of darkness so that all may see the path -[434.62 --> 443.42] to the deep well of salvation. So we proclaim the joyous name of Jesus today. In Jesus' name we pray. -[443.42 --> 457.52] I now invite you all to stand to receive God's greeting this morning. -[458.76 --> 468.08] Receive God's greeting from Revelation 1. Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who -[468.08 --> 474.00] is to come and from the seven spirits who are before his throne and from Jesus Christ who is -[474.00 --> 481.38] the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead and the ruler of the kings of the earth. Amen. -[498.08 --> 522.08] O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant. O come ye, O come ye to bed and bed. -[522.08 --> 545.68] Come and behold him, king of angels. O come, let us adore him. O come, let us adore him. -[545.68 --> 558.34] O come, let us adore him. Christ the Lord. -[558.34 --> 560.70] Amen. -[571.70 --> 588.30] Sing choirs of angels, sing in exultations, sing, all ye citizens of heaven. -[588.30 --> 589.62] above. -[591.96 --> 593.72] Glory -[593.72 --> 596.70] to God, -[596.70 --> 599.12] oh, glory -[599.12 --> 602.94] in the highest. -[603.42 --> 604.82] Oh, come -[604.82 --> 606.42] let us -[606.42 --> 608.92] adore him. -[609.34 --> 610.82] Oh, come -[610.82 --> 612.44] let us -[612.44 --> 615.04] adore him. -[615.38 --> 616.88] Oh, come -[616.88 --> 618.28] let us -[618.28 --> 621.94] adore him. -[621.94 --> 623.94] Christ -[624.80 --> 625.94] the Lord. -[646.88 --> 649.98] May -[649.98 --> 651.94] Lord, we greet -[651.94 --> 653.94] him -[653.94 --> 656.00] for this -[656.00 --> 656.94] happy -[656.94 --> 658.94] morning. -[659.94 --> 662.10] Jesus -[662.10 --> 663.94] to be -[663.94 --> 665.24] the -[665.24 --> 666.00] love. -[666.00 --> 669.00] Oh, glory -[669.00 --> 670.00] in the -[670.00 --> 671.00] name. -[671.00 --> 673.00] Lord -[673.00 --> 675.00] of the -[675.00 --> 676.00] Father, -[676.00 --> 678.00] now -[678.00 --> 679.94] in flesh -[679.94 --> 681.00] appearing. -[681.00 --> 684.00] Oh, come -[684.00 --> 686.00] let us -[686.00 --> 687.00] adore -[687.00 --> 688.46] adore him. -[688.46 --> 690.36] Oh, come -[690.36 --> 691.86] let us -[691.86 --> 694.38] adore him. -[694.38 --> 696.16] Oh, come -[696.16 --> 697.56] let us -[697.56 --> 701.06] adore him. -[701.06 --> 703.06] Christ -[703.06 --> 704.06] the -[704.06 --> 705.12] Lord. -[705.12 --> 707.12] Oh, come -[707.12 --> 709.12] Lord. -[709.12 --> 711.12] Oh, come -[711.12 --> 713.12] Lord. -[713.12 --> 715.12] Oh, come -[715.12 --> 716.12] Lord. -[716.12 --> 717.12] His name -[717.12 --> 718.12] shall be -[718.12 --> 719.12] wonderful -[719.12 --> 721.12] counselor. -[721.12 --> 722.12] His name -[722.12 --> 723.12] shall be -[723.12 --> 725.60] everlasting -[725.60 --> 726.18] Father. -[726.18 --> 728.18] Your name -[728.18 --> 730.18] shall be -[730.18 --> 732.18] Prince of Peace -[732.18 --> 733.56] igniting on -[733.56 --> 734.18] his name -[734.82 --> 736.18] shall be -[736.18 --> 737.18] enough. -[737.18 --> 738.18] We'll praise -[738.86 --> 740.14] your name -[740.14 --> 741.18] forever. -[743.18 --> 744.18] We'll praise -[744.84 --> 746.08] your name -[746.08 --> 747.26] forever. -[748.98 --> 750.18] We'll praise -[750.18 --> 751.80] your name -[751.80 --> 752.94] forever. -[755.46 --> 756.86] Christ -[756.86 --> 758.54] the -[758.54 --> 759.86] Lord. -[759.86 --> 761.86] We'll praise -[762.42 --> 763.86] your name -[763.86 --> 764.90] forever. -[766.58 --> 767.86] We'll praise -[767.86 --> 769.80] your name -[769.80 --> 770.78] forever. -[772.52 --> 774.22] We'll praise -[774.22 --> 775.50] your name -[775.50 --> 776.60] forever. -[776.60 --> 778.60] ever. -[778.60 --> 780.60] Christ -[780.60 --> 781.60] the -[781.60 --> 782.60] Lord. -[792.60 --> 795.04] His name -[795.04 --> 796.32] shall be -[796.32 --> 797.66] wonderful -[797.66 --> 798.60] counselor. -[799.68 --> 801.00] His name -[801.00 --> 801.60] shall be -[802.28 --> 803.60] everlasting -[803.60 --> 805.04] Father. -[805.04 --> 806.04] His name -[806.04 --> 808.04] shall be -[808.04 --> 810.20] Prince of Peace -[810.20 --> 811.50] binding up. -[811.66 --> 812.04] His name -[812.84 --> 814.16] shall be -[814.16 --> 815.04] Emmanuel. -[821.04 --> 822.70] You may have a seat. -[835.44 --> 836.78] King -[836.78 --> 837.04] to -[837.04 --> 838.18] the -[838.22 --> 838.54] quickly -[839.04 --> 839.16] will -[839.16 --> 840.20] be -[841.28 --> 842.04] to -[843.24 --> 844.04] lon -[846.20 --> 848.64] his name -[851.90 --> 852.04] and -[852.04 --> 853.20] will -[853.20 --> 854.10] bear -[854.10 --> 856.06] Him -[856.78 --> 857.32] will -[857.56 --> 858.34] who -[858.84 --> 859.88] for -[859.88 --> 889.86] Thank you. -[889.88 --> 919.86] Thank you. -[919.88 --> 949.86] Thank you. -[949.88 --> 979.86] Thank you. -[979.88 --> 1009.86] Thank you. -[1009.88 --> 1039.86] Thank you. -[1039.88 --> 1043.94] We are humbled that you would come to this earth to save us from our sins. -[1044.94 --> 1045.96] Thank you, Jesus. -[1047.06 --> 1048.78] Emmanuel, God with us. -[1049.60 --> 1049.86] Amen. -[1049.86 --> 1055.54] Please stand with us as we sing. -[1055.54 --> 1057.54] Amen. -[1057.54 --> 1059.54] Amen. -[1059.54 --> 1061.54] Amen. -[1061.54 --> 1067.54] Amen. -[1067.54 --> 1069.54] Amen. -[1069.54 --> 1073.54] Amen. -[1073.54 --> 1075.54] Amen. -[1075.54 --> 1079.54] Amen. -[1079.54 --> 1081.54] God of all of us. -[1081.54 --> 1087.54] God of all creation, God of all creation, here with us. -[1087.54 --> 1089.54] Amen. -[1089.54 --> 1108.54] In a starlit manger, Emmanuel, light of the world, here to say. -[1108.54 --> 1127.54] Adore, come let us adore, come let us adore Him. -[1127.54 --> 1147.04] The Lord, worship Christ the Lord, and all that is within us adore. -[1147.04 --> 1167.04] Lies and bring their treasures, shepherds bow the hall. -[1167.04 --> 1176.04] Angel voices sing of peace on earth. -[1177.04 --> 1187.04] What have I to offer to heaven's King? -[1187.04 --> 1198.04] I will bring my life, my love, my love. -[1198.04 --> 1212.04] Adore, come let us adore, come let us adore Him. -[1212.04 --> 1229.04] The Lord, worship Christ the Lord, and all that is within us adore. -[1229.04 --> 1244.04] Angels sing praises ring to the newborn King. -[1244.04 --> 1249.04] Peace on earth here with us, joy awakening. -[1249.04 --> 1254.04] At your feet we fall. -[1254.04 --> 1256.04] At your feet we fall. -[1256.04 --> 1260.04] Adore, come let us adore. -[1260.04 --> 1261.04] The Lord, come let us adore. -[1261.04 --> 1262.04] The Lord, worship Christ the Lord. -[1262.04 --> 1265.04] Peace on earth here with us, joy awakening. -[1265.04 --> 1268.04] At your feet we fall. -[1268.04 --> 1273.04] Adore, come let us adore. -[1273.04 --> 1274.04] Come let us adore. -[1274.04 --> 1275.04] Come let us adore. -[1275.04 --> 1276.04] Come let us adore. -[1276.04 --> 1280.04] Oh come let us adore Him. -[1280.04 --> 1298.04] The Lord, worship Christ the Lord, and all that is within us adore. -[1298.04 --> 1305.04] Lord, worship Christ the Lord, and all that is within us adore. -[1305.04 --> 1312.04] God and all that is within us adore. -[1312.04 --> 1314.04] God unto you our love. -[1314.04 --> 1317.04] And all that is within us love. -[1317.04 --> 1321.04] 爺 Sie is through your heart, Lord. -[1321.04 --> 1324.04] Lord and all that is within us love you, be seen when you were heal. -[1324.04 --> 1326.04] Most of them actions of you were to suffer and fear. -[1326.04 --> 1331.04] God and your feet we rise. -[1331.04 --> 1332.04] Isaiah remind us waar reason why Jesus was our name veramente meant for us. -[1332.04 --> 1362.02] Thank you. -[1362.04 --> 1392.02] Thank you. -[1392.04 --> 1422.02] Thank you. -[1422.04 --> 1452.02] Thank you. -[1452.04 --> 1482.02] Thank you. -[1482.04 --> 1512.02] Thank you. -[1512.04 --> 1542.02] Thank you. -[1542.04 --> 1572.02] Thank you. -[1572.04 --> 1574.04] Thank you. -[1602.04 --> 1604.04] Thank you. -[1632.04 --> 1634.04] Thank you. -[1662.04 --> 1664.04] Thank you. -[1692.04 --> 1694.04] Thank you. -[1722.04 --> 1724.04] Thank you. -[1724.04 --> 1726.04] Thank you. -[1726.04 --> 1728.04] Thank you. -[1728.04 --> 1730.04] Thank you. -[1756.04 --> 1758.04] Thank you. -[1786.04 --> 1788.04] Thank you. -[1816.04 --> 1818.04] Thank you. -[1818.04 --> 1820.04] Thank you. -[1820.04 --> 1822.04] Thank you. -[1822.04 --> 1824.04] Thank you. -[1824.04 --> 1826.04] Thank you. -[1826.04 --> 1828.04] Thank you. -[1828.04 --> 1830.04] Oh, a little bit. -[1830.04 --> 1831.04] Oh, a little bit of a little bit of a little bit of a Christmas present, maybe. -[1831.04 --> 1832.04] Oh, a little early Christmas present, maybe. -[1832.04 --> 1834.04] I have a good Christmas question for you guys. -[1834.04 --> 1838.04] Do you guys have any favorite Christmas carols? -[1838.04 --> 1842.04] Any favorite songs that you sing at Christmas that you really love? -[1842.04 --> 1843.04] jingle bells? -[1843.04 --> 1844.04] I have a little bit of a new year years ago? -[1844.04 --> 1845.04] I don't know. -[1845.04 --> 1846.04] I don't know. -[1846.04 --> 1847.04] I don't know. -[1847.04 --> 1848.04] I don't know. -[1848.04 --> 1849.04] I don't know. -[1849.04 --> 1850.04] I don't know. -[1850.04 --> 1851.04] I don't know. -[1851.04 --> 1852.04] I don't know. -[1852.04 --> 1855.16] Oh, ring, ring, ring the bells. -[1857.72 --> 1859.58] Oh, wow, thanks for singing it. -[1860.90 --> 1862.64] Oh, the concert you have, yeah. -[1863.76 --> 1865.08] The First Noel. -[1870.38 --> 1870.94] What's that? -[1871.90 --> 1873.34] Oh, City Sidewalk. -[1873.50 --> 1874.88] Yeah, these are all really good songs. -[1874.94 --> 1876.20] There's lots on the radio right now. -[1876.22 --> 1877.04] Oh, one last one. -[1878.60 --> 1880.16] God rest ye merry gentlemen. -[1880.36 --> 1881.32] These are awesome songs. -[1881.32 --> 1882.50] We'll give Ruby the last one. -[1883.24 --> 1884.10] Away in a manger. -[1884.16 --> 1885.26] You guys are really good at this. -[1885.34 --> 1888.20] I played a Scattergories song earlier this week, -[1888.24 --> 1889.40] or game earlier this week, -[1889.44 --> 1890.98] and I had to think of Christmas songs, -[1891.12 --> 1891.92] and I got like two. -[1892.42 --> 1893.56] I didn't do very good. -[1894.16 --> 1897.72] So, oh, I can't remember anymore. -[1897.86 --> 1899.52] I could barely recall them then. -[1899.90 --> 1901.50] Well, we have something special we're going to do -[1901.50 --> 1903.90] in children's worship time today, -[1904.06 --> 1905.80] and my tie is a little bit of hint, -[1905.88 --> 1907.04] and so is the questions. -[1907.68 --> 1909.28] We have got Mr. Baker. -[1909.28 --> 1911.94] That's Allie and Spencer's dad. -[1912.00 --> 1912.78] He's going to join us, -[1912.84 --> 1915.38] and we're going to do a whole bunch of gifts. -[1916.06 --> 1916.92] Oh, and Lily, yes. -[1917.38 --> 1920.86] We are going to sing Christmas carols -[1920.86 --> 1922.72] with Mr. Baker today in worship time. -[1923.08 --> 1924.48] So we will have, of course, -[1924.52 --> 1925.74] our story like we always do, -[1925.80 --> 1927.96] but then we'll get to do a special bit -[1927.96 --> 1928.82] of worship time together. -[1928.96 --> 1931.88] So let's stand and do the children's blessing, -[1931.88 --> 1934.46] and then we can go and get some singing going. -[1938.54 --> 1939.78] All right. -[1939.92 --> 1939.98] Ready, guys? -[1940.34 --> 1941.02] Hands up. -[1941.02 --> 1942.98] All right. -[1943.26 --> 1948.84] All right. -[1948.84 --> 1949.10] Bye. -[1949.10 --> 1949.94] Bye. -[1949.96 --> 1950.66] Bye. -[1950.66 --> 1950.90] Bye. -[1951.60 --> 1952.54] Bye. -[1953.86 --> 1954.38] Bye. -[1954.38 --> 1954.84] Bye. -[1955.72 --> 1960.26] Bye. -[1960.42 --> 1961.40] Bye. -[1961.72 --> 1961.78] Bye. -[1961.88 --> 1984.18] I think the big problem is the mic stand because I've got to be able to read my phone. -[1984.18 --> 1988.02] My eyes aren't too good. -[1988.02 --> 1992.52] First of all, my name is Peter and I'm one of the elders here at the church. -[1992.52 --> 2000.50] And I wanted to start off today just by saying that the budget that we proposed and voted -[2000.50 --> 2004.46] on at the congregational meeting this past week was passed unanimously. -[2004.46 --> 2007.80] So thank you all for that. -[2007.80 --> 2016.94] Let's go to our God in our church. -[2016.94 --> 2019.56] Holy Triune God. -[2019.56 --> 2024.90] The Advent Christmas season always adds a new component to our worship. -[2024.90 --> 2030.94] We celebrate for weeks in anticipation of the day that we get to celebrate the arrival of -[2030.94 --> 2031.94] the Savior. -[2031.94 --> 2061.94] -[2061.94 --> 2065.56] That Mary would not have wanted to be thinking about. -[2065.56 --> 2067.72] But it's something that we are very aware of now. -[2070.28 --> 2078.18] Lord, what an amazing sight it would have been to see Jesus heal and cast out spirits and be real with those that wanted to follow him. -[2078.18 --> 2086.14] He physically isn't here to put his hands on us now or speak to our sicknesses to cast them aside. -[2086.14 --> 2089.14] But he did show us how to come to you. -[2089.14 --> 2094.80] Through our prayers, we know we can appeal for your healing. -[2094.80 --> 2102.76] We continue to be thankful along with Bob and his family for the news that he is cancer free. -[2102.76 --> 2109.42] We are also thankful along with the LCS community as a missing teen was found safe this week. -[2109.42 --> 2119.10] Lord, we think of the many college and university students that are gearing up for exams and looking forward to Christmas break. -[2120.10 --> 2125.04] Help them to feel confident in their preparation so they can truly have a good day. -[2125.04 --> 2136.74] We realize too, Father, that while we continually focus on the excitement and celebration of this season of the year, -[2137.60 --> 2145.74] there are those that suffer, mourn, and those that don't have the ability to be joyful in the wake of many different circumstances. -[2145.74 --> 2152.04] Even now, Lord, so many are still dealing with the aftermath of fire last summer, -[2152.66 --> 2155.32] and now many are having to get through massive floods, -[2155.66 --> 2159.66] not to mention the seeming threat of yet another wave of the pandemic. -[2161.00 --> 2164.54] It really feels like there is a dark cloud of doom and gloom over us, Lord. -[2165.18 --> 2167.68] It just won't go away or even give us a break. -[2169.28 --> 2170.84] Help us to see the light, Lord. -[2170.84 --> 2177.66] Help us not only to look back on the work of Jesus and his coming to earth to be our Savior, -[2177.76 --> 2179.60] but also to look forward to his coming again. -[2182.02 --> 2184.30] In Advent, we sing, -[2184.66 --> 2186.00] Come Thou Long-Expected Jesus, -[2186.90 --> 2189.48] as a reflection, waiting for his birth. -[2191.04 --> 2192.82] We should sing this song now, -[2193.34 --> 2196.06] as his long-expected second arrival is ending. -[2198.40 --> 2200.14] Come Thou Long-Expected Jesus, -[2200.14 --> 2202.94] who has conquered death and risen on high. -[2203.64 --> 2205.08] Part the clouds with your revival, -[2205.46 --> 2206.36] your arrival, -[2207.26 --> 2209.06] and let us then be with you tonight. -[2212.02 --> 2213.52] Be with Pastor Kevin today, Lord, -[2213.56 --> 2214.84] as he delivers your word to us -[2214.84 --> 2219.56] in this series of reflecting on truly what was happening during the Christmas story. -[2220.54 --> 2221.84] We thank you for your word. -[2222.60 --> 2224.84] Give us ears that not only hear, -[2225.40 --> 2225.98] but listen, -[2227.18 --> 2227.72] and hearts -[2227.72 --> 2230.72] help us to take action -[2230.72 --> 2232.62] what we are fed here today. -[2233.88 --> 2234.24] Amen. -[2234.24 --> 2234.30] Amen. -[2234.30 --> 2234.36] Amen. -[2234.36 --> 2234.38] Amen. -[2234.38 --> 2234.40] Amen. -[2234.40 --> 2234.44] Amen. -[2234.44 --> 2240.06] Amen. -[2240.06 --> 2241.16] Thank you. -[2241.64 --> 2241.84] Amen. -[2242.84 --> 2243.12] Amen. -[2243.28 --> 2243.60] Amen. -[2243.64 --> 2243.78] Amen. -[2244.50 --> 2244.70] Amen. -[2244.76 --> 2245.40] Amen. -[2245.44 --> 2245.62] Amen. -[2245.62 --> 2245.90] Amen. -[2245.90 --> 2246.36] Amen. -[2246.36 --> 2247.08] Amen. -[2247.08 --> 2247.62] Amen. -[2247.62 --> 2248.04] Amen. -[2248.04 --> 2248.58] Amen. -[2248.60 --> 2248.72] Amen. -[2248.72 --> 2249.04] Amen. -[2251.20 --> 2251.72] Amen. -[2251.72 --> 2251.88] Amen. -[2251.88 --> 2252.60] Amen. -[2260.74 --> 2261.68] Amen. -[2261.68 --> 2261.98] Amen. -[2261.98 --> 2262.50] Amen. -[2262.50 --> 2263.04] Amen. -[2263.04 --> 2264.08] Amen. -[2264.08 --> 2268.04] Good morning, everyone. -[2268.26 --> 2268.64] There we go. -[2270.16 --> 2275.54] Getting your fortune told is once again becoming quite popular in our culture. -[2276.24 --> 2281.96] Getting a psychic reading or your tarot cards presented to you or having your palms read -[2281.96 --> 2286.82] or if you're feeling independent, you can go and read your horoscope online still because -[2286.82 --> 2288.58] no one's really getting newspapers anymore. -[2289.28 --> 2293.36] These are all things that are still very popular in our culture. -[2293.36 --> 2298.16] My personal favorite, though, of course, is the fortune cookie because not only do you -[2298.16 --> 2301.56] get a little strip of paper that tells you how your life is going to go, but you also -[2301.56 --> 2305.50] get this beautiful wafer that's drier than Bill Murray in Groundhog Day. -[2306.32 --> 2309.74] Now, some of the fortunes in these cookies are just amazing. -[2310.16 --> 2312.88] I did a little Google search this week and found a few of my favorites. -[2313.30 --> 2317.30] Apparently, these are all true, but imagine getting any of these in your next cookie. -[2317.40 --> 2318.04] You crack it open. -[2318.04 --> 2322.00] It says, blessed are the children, for they shall inherit national debt. -[2322.64 --> 2328.12] Or you crack open your cookie and it says, you are about to become $10.95 poorer. -[2328.66 --> 2330.44] Or $8.95 if you had the buffet. -[2331.34 --> 2334.84] Or you open and it says, to truly find yourself. -[2335.52 --> 2336.98] Play, hide, and seek by yourself. -[2337.74 --> 2339.40] And this one actually was my personal favorite. -[2339.50 --> 2342.44] You open your cookie and you read, you shouldn't have had the pork. -[2342.44 --> 2347.32] There was actually, there was an episode of The Simpsons where Homer gets hired to be the -[2347.32 --> 2351.06] main writer for the fortune cookie company and he had a whole bunch of good ones in there. -[2351.12 --> 2355.54] My personal favorite in that episode was, the price of stamps will continue to climb higher. -[2356.56 --> 2357.14] They're so good. -[2357.88 --> 2359.66] People love fortunes. -[2360.12 --> 2361.80] And of course, cookies can't be trusted. -[2361.90 --> 2362.90] I've been saying that for years. -[2363.26 --> 2368.34] And horoscopes and palm readers, they're really just giving blanket sweep statements that could -[2368.34 --> 2370.56] apply to anyone on any given moment. -[2370.56 --> 2372.94] But fortune tellers are out there. -[2373.76 --> 2375.86] And they have been for a long time. -[2377.30 --> 2381.14] Today's sermon, we're going to look at some ancient fortune tellers. -[2381.28 --> 2384.78] Perhaps wizards or astrologers are a better name. -[2384.86 --> 2386.90] You know them as the magi. -[2387.40 --> 2389.44] Or more commonly, the wise men. -[2390.10 --> 2391.76] So we're going to read their story today. -[2391.90 --> 2396.36] So turn with me in your Bibles to Matthew 2, verses 1 to 12. -[2396.40 --> 2397.46] And we'll read this story together. -[2397.46 --> 2402.02] It'll be on the screen behind me, but as always, I encourage you, please have your Bibles open -[2402.02 --> 2404.16] or your Bible apps out. -[2404.44 --> 2405.00] Both are good. -[2405.14 --> 2407.10] And follow along with me today. -[2407.20 --> 2410.46] So Matthew 2, the first 12 verses, reads like this. -[2411.86 --> 2416.30] Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea during the reign of King Herod. -[2416.30 --> 2422.18] About that same time, some wise men from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem, asking, -[2422.82 --> 2425.20] Where is the newborn king of the Jews? -[2425.80 --> 2429.10] We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him. -[2430.18 --> 2433.10] King Herod was deeply disturbed when he heard this. -[2433.36 --> 2437.34] As was everyone in Jerusalem, he called a meeting of the leading priests and teachers -[2437.34 --> 2441.90] of the religious law and asked, Where is the Messiah supposed to be born? -[2441.90 --> 2446.26] In Bethlehem in Judea, they said, For this is what the prophet wrote. -[2446.58 --> 2451.42] And you, O Bethlehem in the land of Judah, are not the least among the ruling cities of -[2451.42 --> 2455.00] Judah, for a ruler will come for you who will be the shepherd for my people. -[2456.16 --> 2460.94] Then Herod called for a private meeting with the wise men, and he learned from them the -[2460.94 --> 2462.90] time when the star first appeared. -[2462.90 --> 2469.74] And he told them, Go to Bethlehem and search carefully for the child, and when you find -[2469.74 --> 2473.44] him, come back and tell me, so I can go and worship him too. -[2474.96 --> 2478.98] After this interview, the wise men went their way, and the star they had seen in the east -[2478.98 --> 2480.30] guided them to Bethlehem. -[2481.06 --> 2484.38] He went ahead of them and stopped over the place where the child was. -[2484.76 --> 2487.28] When they saw the star, they were filled with joy. -[2487.28 --> 2494.22] They entered the house and saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and -[2494.22 --> 2494.96] worshiped him. -[2495.78 --> 2500.60] Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. -[2501.58 --> 2506.56] When it was time to leave, they returned to their own country by a different route, for -[2506.56 --> 2509.64] God had warned them in a dream not to return to Herod. -[2510.62 --> 2511.76] The word of the Lord. -[2511.76 --> 2516.74] Now, this story does continue, of course. -[2516.86 --> 2522.16] If you were to continue to read the rest of Matthew 2, King Herod, he was not a fan that -[2522.16 --> 2524.92] the wise men didn't go back and see him, and he got mad. -[2525.38 --> 2531.30] He was scared he was going to be losing his power to this baby king, and so he commands -[2531.30 --> 2536.36] that all of the baby boys, age two and under, in Bethlehem and the surrounding area must be -[2536.36 --> 2536.70] killed. -[2537.54 --> 2538.76] And so they are. -[2538.76 --> 2543.00] Herod kills, presumably, hundreds of baby boys. -[2544.10 --> 2548.68] Mary and Joseph and Jesus, though, they were warned in a dream by an angel, and they flee -[2548.68 --> 2552.30] to Egypt, where they hide out safely for the first couple years of Jesus' life. -[2552.88 --> 2554.46] That's the story of Matthew 2. -[2554.54 --> 2555.64] That's a crazy story. -[2556.44 --> 2558.24] That's a terrible story. -[2559.50 --> 2561.36] A very important story. -[2563.04 --> 2565.28] We've made the story a little bit prettier, though, haven't we? -[2565.32 --> 2566.46] We've made it more palatable. -[2566.46 --> 2570.86] It's more unique and quaint and cute in the kids' Bible stories, that's for sure. -[2571.18 --> 2575.82] And in our decorations at home, we kind of zhuzh the wise men up a little bit, too, right? -[2575.92 --> 2577.50] Three kings come for a baby. -[2577.60 --> 2578.42] They hang out in a barn. -[2578.50 --> 2578.98] It's very cute. -[2580.44 --> 2584.66] Like we've been saying these past two weeks, we've really hallmarked Christmas up. -[2585.70 --> 2588.26] And so through the series, we're trying to un-hallmark it. -[2588.50 --> 2592.16] We're trying to do our best to tell the story that actually happened. -[2592.16 --> 2598.70] And the story of the Magi is so much more than just a few wise guys coming to meet a baby. -[2600.08 --> 2605.26] What's fascinating about this Christmas story is what Matthew includes in the text. -[2605.86 --> 2612.02] Now, considering that this is the birth of Christ, there's not a lot there in the Bible. -[2613.14 --> 2617.58] Matthew starts off in Matthew 1 with the genealogy, which we talked about a couple weeks ago. -[2617.58 --> 2624.86] And then he spends five verses, just five, telling about Mary's encounter with the angel and how Joseph reacted to that. -[2624.94 --> 2629.86] And then Joseph having a dream from another angel, saying that Mary is in fact pregnant by the Holy Spirit. -[2630.54 --> 2633.52] And then the birth of Jesus in Matthew is two verses. -[2634.62 --> 2635.80] It's actually really just one verse. -[2635.92 --> 2637.66] Matthew 1, 24 to 25. -[2637.80 --> 2638.42] It'll be behind me. -[2638.50 --> 2639.70] They read like this. -[2639.70 --> 2654.52] That's it. -[2655.52 --> 2658.16] That's all Matthew tells us about the birth of Christ. -[2658.26 --> 2658.92] Two sentences. -[2660.10 --> 2663.44] And actually, that's two sentences more than Mark writes in his gospel. -[2664.50 --> 2666.88] Mark doesn't even include the Christmas story in his telling. -[2666.88 --> 2671.08] And John's gospel, he tells this beautiful Christmas story. -[2671.20 --> 2677.88] It's a passage about the word existing in the beginning and coming down and taking on flesh and dwelling among us. -[2678.08 --> 2680.32] And it's this wonderful poetic text. -[2680.46 --> 2682.84] It's filled with imagery and rich in theology. -[2683.20 --> 2685.46] But it's also only 17 verses long. -[2685.72 --> 2689.22] And it gives zero details to what actually happened that night. -[2690.56 --> 2691.78] It's not a narrative. -[2691.98 --> 2692.56] It's imagery. -[2692.56 --> 2697.24] So Luke, then, is the only gospel that goes a little bit deeper into the story. -[2697.44 --> 2700.26] But even his telling is a little bit more sparse than maybe we would like. -[2700.52 --> 2703.98] We read about the angels and the shepherds, what we heard last week from Pastor Chris. -[2704.16 --> 2705.22] That passage is in there. -[2705.44 --> 2708.72] But beyond that, do you know how many verses there are about Jesus' death in Luke? -[2709.84 --> 2710.20] Seven. -[2711.84 --> 2712.36] That's it. -[2712.92 --> 2716.00] And if you read Luke 2, 1 to 7 later today, I challenge you to do that, -[2716.00 --> 2721.44] you'll see that out of those seven verses, five of them are all about a census that is being taken -[2721.44 --> 2724.06] and the Roman politics of the day and where they needed to go. -[2724.20 --> 2729.04] Which leaves, again, two verses about Jesus' birth. -[2733.38 --> 2736.06] Now, Matthew's gospel is no different. -[2736.22 --> 2738.10] But Matthew, he's a good writer. -[2738.26 --> 2740.72] So are all of these apostles, are all these disciples who wrote. -[2740.72 --> 2749.00] And so him limiting words to tell the story means that the words he uses must matter a lot. -[2750.44 --> 2756.48] Jesus' birth, the trip to Bethlehem, the shepherd's part, which Pastor Chris talked about last week, -[2756.52 --> 2759.56] the whole manger thing, which Pastor Chris will talk about next week, -[2759.90 --> 2762.18] all of that is not included in Matthew's gospel. -[2762.58 --> 2768.52] But as we read today, he takes an entire chapter to talk about these magi -[2768.52 --> 2771.12] and their interaction with Herod. -[2773.04 --> 2776.66] In fact, it's kind of the main cog of Matthew's telling of this story. -[2777.50 --> 2778.04] But why? -[2779.80 --> 2783.46] Well, to understand this, let's look at who these wise men are. -[2785.78 --> 2786.76] I love cell phones. -[2786.84 --> 2787.34] Aren't they fun? -[2787.46 --> 2787.86] It's okay. -[2787.96 --> 2788.68] We don't need to look. -[2788.84 --> 2789.32] It's fine. -[2790.16 --> 2791.70] We're going to look at who these wise men are. -[2791.70 --> 2797.50] First of all, notice that there's actually no mention of there being three of them. -[2798.52 --> 2799.48] There's no mention of there being three. -[2799.52 --> 2803.00] They bought three gifts, and so we then assume there's three of them. -[2803.02 --> 2804.84] But we have no idea how many there actually were. -[2805.20 --> 2806.00] There could have been two. -[2806.48 --> 2807.24] There could have been 20. -[2807.88 --> 2813.20] All we know is that there was a number small enough that they could have had a private interaction with Herod. -[2813.24 --> 2814.60] So there probably wasn't 200. -[2814.98 --> 2816.22] But the exact number, we don't know. -[2816.22 --> 2822.38] We also know that they're from the eastern lands, but that's all our text actually says. -[2823.10 --> 2831.32] The Bible doesn't say where they are actually from, but through some history and some other literature, it is likely that they were from Arabia. -[2831.90 --> 2834.12] And if you're having a hard time placing Arabia, think Aladdin. -[2834.12 --> 2843.92] Back then, a lot of gold was mined in Arabia, and both frankincense and myrrh were harvested from trees that only grew in southern Arabia. -[2844.04 --> 2846.22] So that's the first big clue from where they came from. -[2846.42 --> 2847.24] But there's more evidence. -[2847.68 --> 2852.50] The historian Justin writes that wise men from Arabia came to Bethlehem and worshipped the child. -[2852.86 --> 2858.96] And both Tertullian and Clement of Rome, both historians of the late first and second centuries, for you history buffs, -[2858.96 --> 2861.86] they affirm that that information is true as well. -[2862.06 --> 2863.62] Now maybe you think, well, who cares? -[2863.74 --> 2864.46] They're from Arabia. -[2865.34 --> 2866.32] Why is that important? -[2867.36 --> 2871.14] But it does mean without a doubt that these men were not Jewish. -[2872.08 --> 2873.00] They were Gentiles. -[2873.08 --> 2875.68] They were unexpected outsiders. -[2877.74 --> 2879.32] Now secondly, they're called magi. -[2880.60 --> 2884.56] Now magi, from biblical standards, were not waddle. -[2884.56 --> 2892.08] They were astrologers, men who followed stars to seek wisdom, men who were idolaters. -[2892.84 --> 2897.64] They worshipped the stars, in fact, and they sought their guidance from them. -[2898.72 --> 2905.22] In fact, the only two other times in the Gospels that magi are mentioned, they are seriously rebuked. -[2905.84 --> 2911.18] In Acts 8, 9 to 24, we read about Simon the magician, the magi, who tried to pay the apostles -[2911.18 --> 2914.92] to learn how they were doing their miracles so that he could gain a few bucks. -[2915.58 --> 2917.06] And he was rebuked hard by Peter. -[2917.70 --> 2924.00] In Acts 13, 6 to 11, we hear of another magician named Bar Jesus, or he's called Elemis later on. -[2924.10 --> 2928.42] He opposed the work of the apostle Paul, and he tried to stand in his way. -[2928.84 --> 2932.72] Again, Paul admonishes him, and the magician actually becomes blind. -[2933.10 --> 2936.60] In both stories, these magi are pagan magicians. -[2936.60 --> 2939.10] They use sorcery and trickery to earn wealth. -[2939.70 --> 2943.40] That's who these magi in our story are, too. -[2944.54 --> 2948.68] They're non-Jewish, pagan idol worshippers coming from a distant land, -[2949.00 --> 2953.96] using their idols, the stars, to guide them to Christ. -[2956.80 --> 2962.14] And yet, we know that God is the God of heaven, with its stars, -[2962.14 --> 2966.48] and the God of this earth, with its humanity and its genealogies. -[2966.54 --> 2972.04] And we know that Matthew points out that God can move both for his will. -[2974.28 --> 2976.98] The magi were also very rich and wealthy. -[2977.16 --> 2981.86] They would have been very big cultural influencers, flaunting their wealth for sure, -[2981.92 --> 2982.90] but they seemed wise. -[2983.02 --> 2986.00] They knew things, perhaps, that they had no business of knowing. -[2986.00 --> 2992.90] They were obsessed with these magi, and the magi had tremendous influence of that culture. -[2993.26 --> 2996.00] Think of Instagram influencers right now. -[2996.10 --> 2997.34] They set the trends. -[2997.48 --> 2999.38] They moved the cultural needle. -[2999.86 --> 3001.76] They were highly influential. -[3003.08 --> 3005.92] To read wise men, that's who we are talking about. -[3006.88 --> 3010.84] Wealthy, influential, pagan idol worshippers, -[3010.84 --> 3013.98] studying the stars and taking meaning from them. -[3016.00 --> 3021.96] Now, when Matthew writes this gospel, his audience is predominantly Jewish. -[3022.14 --> 3025.10] That's who Matthew is targeting when he's writing this gospel. -[3025.50 --> 3029.82] So the fact that he spends a good chunk, in fact, the majority of this birth story, -[3030.38 --> 3032.68] on pagan astrologers from Arabia, -[3033.38 --> 3035.96] it would have stood out to his readers in a big way. -[3037.18 --> 3041.92] More than that, the Jewish representative in this story, which we read today, -[3042.02 --> 3044.80] is none other than King Herod. -[3046.00 --> 3049.36] Now, remember, King Herod, he's a Jewish king. -[3050.02 --> 3052.30] He's ruling over the territory of Judah, -[3052.30 --> 3055.80] and he's under the influence of the Roman emperor, but he is Jewish. -[3057.10 --> 3058.24] He's also a bully. -[3058.72 --> 3060.48] He's obsessed with his power. -[3061.02 --> 3065.38] He's scraped his way to the top, kicking anyone below him to get there, -[3065.40 --> 3069.38] and he's brown-nosing the people above him to gain all the power that he can. -[3069.38 --> 3074.84] Power was everything to him. -[3075.68 --> 3079.90] And we can see that by his response to the news that a baby king was born in his territory. -[3080.16 --> 3085.74] He was so worried about his power diminishing that he kicked hard beneath him once again, -[3086.74 --> 3090.98] and he ends up murdering babies to keep his control. -[3091.38 --> 3093.86] There is no hallmark about this story. -[3093.86 --> 3096.42] There is no hallmark movie out there about this. -[3096.66 --> 3097.40] It's not pretty. -[3099.76 --> 3102.96] And so on the one side of this story, you've got these pagan astrologers, -[3103.28 --> 3106.58] and on the other side, you've got this rotten Jewish king. -[3107.88 --> 3112.96] And this is where, as Jewish readers of this story, Matthew's audience would have cringed. -[3114.16 --> 3115.78] Perhaps they would have stopped listening altogether. -[3115.78 --> 3120.54] So, we're going to look now at another well-known Bible story for a moment, -[3121.14 --> 3122.50] to help tie this together a little bit. -[3122.54 --> 3125.84] We're going to bring it all the way back to Exodus, with Moses and the Israelites. -[3126.92 --> 3131.76] Now remember, the Israelites, the Jews, they were being held in Egypt as slaves, -[3132.28 --> 3134.88] and Moses was sent by God to save them from Pharaoh. -[3134.98 --> 3138.68] Now we read in Exodus 8, verse 1, that God calls them out of Egypt, but why? -[3138.82 --> 3139.84] Let's read along with me here. -[3141.36 --> 3142.16] Exodus 8, verse 1, -[3142.16 --> 3156.22] It was about worship. -[3157.22 --> 3162.00] The Israelites needed to be freed from their oppressors because they were supposed to be worshiping God. -[3162.12 --> 3166.56] God's people, the Jewish people, needed to be freed from their oppressive world -[3166.56 --> 3169.40] so that they could worship Yahweh. -[3169.40 --> 3174.74] But the king of Egypt, Pharaoh back then, he was scared he would lose his power. -[3175.74 --> 3178.14] His power in the form of slaves, free labor. -[3178.92 --> 3180.04] And so he wouldn't let them leave. -[3181.38 --> 3183.88] Now fast forward to our story again today, and things have switched. -[3185.20 --> 3188.16] It is now the world coming to Jesus. -[3189.02 --> 3189.36] What? -[3190.52 --> 3191.64] To worship him. -[3192.40 --> 3194.60] This pagan world in the form of these wise men, -[3194.86 --> 3198.22] they are coming to worship the king of the Jews. -[3198.22 --> 3199.88] Verse 2 of our text, -[3199.96 --> 3202.08] Where is this newborn king of the Jews, they say? -[3202.64 --> 3206.50] We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him. -[3208.50 --> 3211.20] These pagan astrologers knew who Jesus was, -[3211.80 --> 3213.52] and they came not to see him simply, -[3213.74 --> 3215.62] not to influence him in any way, -[3216.24 --> 3217.56] but to worship him. -[3217.56 --> 3223.46] But this time, it's not Pharaoh who's worried about losing his power. -[3224.00 --> 3225.62] It's the Jewish king. -[3226.86 --> 3230.12] He's the one who devises a plan to figure out where Jesus was born, -[3230.30 --> 3231.88] and we know what his intentions are. -[3231.90 --> 3232.84] He's not going to worship him. -[3232.88 --> 3233.92] He wants Jesus killed. -[3235.38 --> 3238.80] And when the Magi don't return to tell Herod where Jesus is, -[3238.96 --> 3241.36] he kills all of the boys in Bethlehem -[3241.36 --> 3244.88] and the surrounding region who are two years old and younger. -[3246.02 --> 3249.56] Remember who else killed babies when their power was threatened? -[3249.68 --> 3250.60] The dots are connecting. -[3251.72 --> 3252.06] Pharaoh. -[3252.72 --> 3255.10] Pharaoh, back in that story, back in Exodus again, -[3255.10 --> 3258.14] saw how big the Israelite population was getting, -[3258.46 --> 3261.92] and so he commanded that all of the boys born of the Israelite people -[3261.92 --> 3264.32] be drowned in the Nile River. -[3265.28 --> 3266.38] And of course, Moses was saved. -[3266.46 --> 3267.94] He was put in a basket, floated down the river. -[3267.94 --> 3270.56] We might know the story, and that continues from there. -[3270.76 --> 3273.18] But that's why this story is so important to Matthew. -[3274.22 --> 3279.56] He is overlaying the birth of Christ with the Exodus in Egypt, -[3279.68 --> 3282.86] except this time, it's not his people worshiping God. -[3284.24 --> 3285.88] It's the world who is. -[3287.30 --> 3290.78] And it's not the Egyptian king that's opposing God. -[3291.72 --> 3293.02] It's the Jewish one. -[3295.30 --> 3297.22] The world came to Jesus. -[3297.38 --> 3297.78] Verse 11, -[3297.78 --> 3318.86] There was no halo present on Jesus' head like some of the pictures you might see. -[3319.06 --> 3319.90] He wasn't glowing. -[3320.72 --> 3322.70] He didn't perform miracles in his crib. -[3322.82 --> 3324.58] He didn't speak to them yet. -[3324.58 --> 3329.38] But with no evidence other than a star leading their way, -[3330.50 --> 3333.04] these magi, the world, in reverence, -[3334.12 --> 3336.80] sought the king and worshipped him. -[3337.32 --> 3339.44] It's the power of Christ. -[3339.44 --> 3348.08] And so the magi are Moses and the Israelites desiring to worship God. -[3348.68 --> 3354.36] And Herod is Pharaoh, losing his power and murdering children in order to retain it. -[3355.52 --> 3358.34] Matthew flips the script, and the world becomes God's people, -[3358.42 --> 3360.18] and God's people become God's oppressors. -[3360.18 --> 3363.74] And there's one more comparison from the two stories that stand. -[3363.80 --> 3370.00] In Exodus, God's people were called to flee Egypt in order to escape a worldly tyrant. -[3370.40 --> 3378.06] And in Matthew 2, God's son flees to Egypt in order to escape a Jewish one. -[3378.06 --> 3381.50] Again, this is not hallmark material. -[3382.04 --> 3384.82] This is a very, very messy story. -[3384.94 --> 3389.50] It's not a cute tale of some wise sages coming from afar to gawk at a baby. -[3389.64 --> 3394.36] It's a story filled with friction between God's people and the world. -[3394.44 --> 3397.08] A story of lost power being fought over. -[3397.16 --> 3402.12] A story that reshapes God's grand redemption narrative. -[3402.12 --> 3409.58] Last week, Pastor Chris pointed out that Luke's story of Jesus is bookended. -[3409.72 --> 3412.72] His whole gospel is bookended by shepherds and women, -[3413.12 --> 3417.52] two groups of people whose words at the time were untrustworthy. -[3418.90 --> 3420.48] Matthew bookends his story too. -[3421.50 --> 3424.78] He starts with the Gentile outsiders, the magi. -[3425.40 --> 3428.90] And at the end of his book, Jesus, in the Great Commission, calls us, -[3429.56 --> 3431.90] all who believe to go out to all nations. -[3433.06 --> 3435.44] In the beginning, the world comes to worship Jesus. -[3435.66 --> 3439.08] And in the end, Jesus tells his followers to go to the world. -[3440.86 --> 3447.62] This passage sets the stage and redefines the boundaries of who Jesus came to save -[3447.62 --> 3451.08] and who can come to worship him. -[3452.88 --> 3453.44] Everyone. -[3456.34 --> 3461.76] Jesus came for his people like the untrustworthy and unruly Jewish shepherds. -[3462.12 --> 3463.06] Jesus came for all people. -[3463.06 --> 3465.02] Who also came to worship him and proclaim his name. -[3465.06 --> 3469.98] But not all of his people would accept him, as we see with King Herod and later on with the Pharisees. -[3470.44 --> 3473.78] However, Jesus also came for the unexpected outsider. -[3473.78 --> 3476.16] The wise men were pagans. -[3476.16 --> 3477.16] The worldly people. -[3477.16 --> 3477.92] The worldly people. -[3477.92 --> 3482.20] But they came and were welcome to worship the Savior. -[3483.06 --> 3485.16] Jesus came for all people. -[3485.28 --> 3489.36] He came to this earth, born of a family so broken and messy, -[3489.42 --> 3491.52] it makes the Kardashians look like the Brady Bunch. -[3491.96 --> 3495.82] He came for the shepherds and the wise men. -[3495.82 --> 3496.76] He came for you. -[3496.76 --> 3498.60] And he came for me. -[3498.60 --> 3500.86] And he came for all people. -[3502.52 --> 3507.10] He came and he lived the spotless life that none of us have lived. -[3507.24 --> 3510.64] And he died a messy, cruel death. -[3510.78 --> 3511.50] We deserved. -[3512.36 --> 3513.94] But he took it on in our place. -[3513.94 --> 3521.28] And then three days later, he rises again from the grave and he defeats sin and death once and for all. -[3521.32 --> 3526.34] And he did that so that all who receive him, all who believe in his name, -[3526.64 --> 3531.10] he gives them the right to be called children of God. -[3531.10 --> 3537.96] That is the Jesus the Magi humbled themselves and worshipped. -[3539.02 --> 3543.02] That is the Jesus that Herod fought for power with. -[3544.54 --> 3545.78] So what about us? -[3548.34 --> 3551.60] Conclude with this perspective, this challenge perhaps. -[3552.90 --> 3556.46] We are living in a post-Christian world right now. -[3556.46 --> 3560.70] We recently looked at the first Peter, the book of first Peter, -[3560.80 --> 3563.60] where we were called exiles in a pagan land. -[3565.00 --> 3566.34] That's our reality. -[3568.10 --> 3575.26] Christendom is in sharp decline and the influence Christianity has on our culture is fading very quickly. -[3576.40 --> 3578.30] Some think that influence is gone already. -[3579.94 --> 3582.80] This passage gives us two responses to that. -[3582.80 --> 3586.92] It gives us two responses to the world that we find ourselves in. -[3588.64 --> 3590.28] And so which response will we pick? -[3597.68 --> 3603.80] As Christians, as we Christians lose more and more influence in the world we live in, -[3603.86 --> 3609.10] as we Christians become more and more powerless against the governing bodies -[3609.10 --> 3611.96] and the cultural influencers around us, -[3612.80 --> 3618.90] as we Christians look around and see the world is getting messier and messier every week, it seems, -[3620.30 --> 3624.04] as all of this is happening in the background or the foreground of your life, -[3625.18 --> 3631.14] do you come to the manger and worship the baby in the midst of the mess? -[3631.14 --> 3638.76] Or do you fight for power and for rights and for control and add to the mess? -[3641.20 --> 3643.86] Are you living as residents of this place, -[3644.68 --> 3648.96] clawing and scraping for your freedom here in this world? -[3648.96 --> 3652.36] Or are you living as exiles? -[3653.36 --> 3658.58] Worshiping Jesus Christ, the Savior, and finding freedom in Him and Him alone? -[3660.24 --> 3664.02] Are you acting in fear like Herod? -[3665.56 --> 3666.78] Losing power? -[3668.18 --> 3672.36] Or are you searching in reverence like the wise men? -[3672.36 --> 3677.18] In your story, are you the Magi? -[3678.08 --> 3679.24] Or are you Herod? -[3681.34 --> 3682.38] Those are the questions. -[3683.28 --> 3686.20] In our messy world, are we fighting for power? -[3686.66 --> 3689.62] Or are we worshiping in reverence? -[3691.88 --> 3694.34] We're un-hallmarking Christmas this Advent season. -[3694.46 --> 3697.28] We're trying to strip away the romanticized story of Jesus' birth -[3697.28 --> 3699.00] and see it for what it really is. -[3700.50 --> 3702.48] If we do that, let's do that with open hearts -[3702.48 --> 3704.14] and look at our own stories -[3704.14 --> 3707.58] and maybe strip away some of that romanticism -[3707.58 --> 3708.98] we put in our own life as well. -[3710.84 --> 3713.76] Let's open our hearts and worship Jesus. -[3713.96 --> 3716.48] The world will always want us fighting for power. -[3718.08 --> 3720.84] Rather than fight, let's search in reverence -[3720.84 --> 3723.92] for the King who was born for us all, -[3723.98 --> 3727.20] who came to redeem everything. -[3727.28 --> 3730.46] And let's worship Him. -[3731.26 --> 3731.56] Amen? -[3732.50 --> 3733.32] Let's pray. -[3739.24 --> 3742.94] Father God, You humbled Yourself in the ultimate way. -[3744.00 --> 3745.40] And You sent Your Son, -[3747.18 --> 3749.34] Jesus Christ, who put on flesh, -[3750.36 --> 3752.42] who made Himself of no reputation -[3752.42 --> 3754.74] and came to this world -[3754.74 --> 3758.28] with one intent. -[3759.28 --> 3761.58] To take on all of our sin, -[3761.68 --> 3762.68] all of our mess -[3762.68 --> 3765.44] and atone for it -[3765.44 --> 3766.46] with His own death -[3766.46 --> 3767.90] and His own resurrection. -[3770.20 --> 3771.90] Lord, this world is a mess -[3771.90 --> 3773.58] and the culture we find ourselves in -[3773.58 --> 3774.56] can be confusing -[3774.56 --> 3776.56] and it can be harmful to us -[3776.56 --> 3777.60] and harmful to others. -[3777.60 --> 3780.46] Lord, don't let us get distracted -[3780.46 --> 3781.30] with the mess. -[3782.66 --> 3784.90] Lord, don't let us fight for power -[3784.90 --> 3785.82] like Herod did -[3785.82 --> 3788.14] and miss who You are. -[3789.58 --> 3791.00] Rather, let us seek You -[3791.00 --> 3792.86] in reverence like the Magi. -[3793.72 --> 3795.14] Let us worship You -[3795.14 --> 3796.78] in the midst of the mess. -[3796.78 --> 3800.20] May that message ring in our hearts -[3800.20 --> 3801.26] and may Your Spirit -[3801.26 --> 3803.98] challenge us with that today. -[3804.78 --> 3805.76] We pray in Your name. -[3806.36 --> 3806.58] Amen. -[3806.58 --> 3806.68] Amen. -[3814.18 --> 3815.66] Please stand as we sing. -[3815.66 --> 3816.16] Amen. -[3816.16 --> 3816.66] Amen. -[3816.66 --> 3817.16] Amen. -[3817.16 --> 3817.66] Amen. -[3817.66 --> 3818.66] Amen. -[3818.66 --> 3819.66] Amen. -[3819.66 --> 3820.66] Amen. -[3820.66 --> 3821.66] Amen. -[3821.66 --> 3822.66] Amen. -[3822.66 --> 3822.72] Amen. -[3822.72 --> 3823.72] Amen. -[3823.72 --> 3823.74] Amen. -[3826.78 --> 3831.56] Amen. -[3831.56 --> 3832.42] Amen. -[3832.42 --> 3833.22] Amen. -[3833.22 --> 3837.10] From the slaughter of a borrowed stable -[3837.10 --> 3842.36] by the spirit and a virgin's faith -[3842.36 --> 3847.80] to the anguish and the shame of scandal -[3847.80 --> 3853.72] came the Savior of the human race -[3853.72 --> 3859.68] But the skies were filled with the praise of heaven -[3859.68 --> 3864.60] Shepherds, listen as the angels tell -[3864.60 --> 3870.18] Of the gift of God, come down to man -[3870.18 --> 3874.84] At the dawning of Emmanuel -[3874.84 --> 3885.80] King of heaven, now the friend of sinners -[3885.80 --> 3891.08] Humble servant in the Father's hand -[3891.08 --> 3896.18] Filled with power and the Holy Spirit -[3896.18 --> 3901.72] Filled with mercy for the broken man -[3901.72 --> 3908.10] Yes, he walked my road and he felt my pain -[3908.10 --> 3913.02] Joys and sorrows that I know so well -[3913.02 --> 3918.54] Yet his righteous steps give me hope again -[3918.54 --> 3923.34] I will follow my Emmanuel -[3923.34 --> 3933.60] Through the kisses of a friend's betrayal -[3933.60 --> 3939.72] He was lifted on a cruel cross -[3939.72 --> 3945.42] He was punished for the world's transgressions -[3945.42 --> 3950.86] He was suffering to save the lost -[3950.86 --> 3957.18] He fights for breath, he fights for me -[3957.18 --> 3962.14] Loosing sinners from the claims of hell -[3962.14 --> 3968.00] And with a shout, our souls are free -[3968.00 --> 3972.56] Death defeated by Emmanuel -[3972.56 --> 3983.66] Now he's standing in a place of honor -[3983.66 --> 3989.02] Browned with glory on the highest throne -[3989.02 --> 3994.14] Interceding for his own beloved -[3994.14 --> 3999.74] Till his Father calls to bring him home -[3999.74 --> 4006.42] Then the skies will part as the trumpet sounds -[4006.42 --> 4011.20] Hope of heaven or the fear of hell -[4011.20 --> 4017.18] But the bride will run to her lover's arms -[4017.18 --> 4021.62] Bringing glory to Emmanuel -[4021.62 --> 4051.56] You may have a seat -[4051.62 --> 4067.94] We come together to the table of our Lord -[4067.94 --> 4069.86] We hear Pastor Kevin's words -[4069.86 --> 4072.94] That it was the unexpected outsider -[4072.94 --> 4075.06] Who recognized Jesus -[4075.06 --> 4077.20] And it was the insider -[4077.20 --> 4079.18] The one who should have known better -[4079.18 --> 4080.76] Who missed it -[4080.76 --> 4083.10] The Gospel of John begins -[4083.10 --> 4084.74] As Kevin mentioned -[4084.74 --> 4086.60] That he came to his own -[4086.60 --> 4088.60] But his own did not recognize him -[4088.60 --> 4091.30] In the Gospel of Luke -[4091.30 --> 4092.40] In the 24th chapter -[4092.40 --> 4093.50] After the resurrection -[4093.50 --> 4096.30] Jesus is walking on the road to Emmaus -[4096.30 --> 4098.82] And two of his disciples -[4098.82 --> 4100.58] Unnamed in that story -[4100.58 --> 4101.90] Are walking with him -[4101.90 --> 4103.76] And Jesus' identity was kept -[4103.76 --> 4104.72] From him -[4104.72 --> 4105.76] Until -[4105.76 --> 4107.92] Arriving in the city -[4107.92 --> 4109.28] He stood before them -[4109.28 --> 4111.32] And he broke bread -[4111.32 --> 4114.40] It's at the table -[4114.40 --> 4116.50] That we recognize -[4116.50 --> 4117.96] And see -[4117.96 --> 4119.14] The Lord -[4119.14 --> 4121.92] We come to this table -[4121.92 --> 4123.70] So that we might -[4123.70 --> 4124.54] See -[4124.54 --> 4125.70] Jesus -[4125.70 --> 4128.80] This table is for us -[4128.80 --> 4130.78] So that you who missed him -[4130.78 --> 4133.14] Might see him -[4133.14 --> 4134.30] Here -[4134.30 --> 4137.24] Might receive him -[4137.24 --> 4138.34] Here -[4138.34 --> 4139.58] And take him -[4139.58 --> 4140.50] In -[4140.50 --> 4141.78] Spiritually -[4141.78 --> 4143.02] Here -[4143.02 --> 4145.98] At his last -[4145.98 --> 4146.92] Supper -[4146.92 --> 4148.72] The Lord Jesus -[4148.72 --> 4149.64] Took bread -[4149.64 --> 4152.40] And when he had given thanks -[4152.40 --> 4154.00] He broke it and said -[4154.00 --> 4155.54] This is my body -[4155.54 --> 4157.04] Which is for you -[4157.04 --> 4158.72] Do this -[4158.72 --> 4159.88] In remembrance -[4159.88 --> 4161.36] Of me -[4161.36 --> 4163.74] And in the same way -[4163.74 --> 4164.26] After -[4164.26 --> 4165.24] Supper -[4165.24 --> 4166.72] He took the cup -[4166.72 --> 4167.84] And he said -[4167.84 --> 4168.76] This cup -[4168.76 --> 4169.94] Is the new covenant -[4169.94 --> 4171.26] In my blood -[4171.26 --> 4172.90] Do this -[4172.90 --> 4173.96] In remembrance -[4173.96 --> 4174.92] Of me -[4174.92 --> 4176.14] For whenever -[4176.14 --> 4178.04] We eat this bread -[4178.04 --> 4179.84] And drink this cup -[4179.84 --> 4180.80] We proclaim -[4180.80 --> 4181.64] The Lord's death -[4181.64 --> 4183.10] And his resurrection -[4183.10 --> 4184.28] Until -[4184.28 --> 4185.44] He comes -[4185.44 --> 4186.20] Again -[4186.20 --> 4187.52] Therefore -[4187.52 --> 4188.42] We proclaim -[4188.42 --> 4189.62] Our faith -[4189.62 --> 4190.90] As signed -[4190.90 --> 4191.76] And sealed -[4191.76 --> 4192.80] In this -[4192.80 --> 4193.80] Sacrament -[4193.80 --> 4202.82] Church family -[4202.82 --> 4204.28] The Lord has -[4204.28 --> 4205.10] Prepared -[4205.10 --> 4206.24] His table -[4206.24 --> 4206.94] For all -[4206.94 --> 4208.18] Who love him -[4208.18 --> 4209.44] And trust in him -[4209.44 --> 4210.10] Alone -[4210.10 --> 4211.42] For their salvation -[4211.42 --> 4212.62] If you are truly -[4212.62 --> 4214.14] Sorry for your sins -[4214.14 --> 4214.82] And sincerely -[4214.82 --> 4216.02] Believe in the Lord -[4216.02 --> 4217.36] Jesus as your Savior -[4217.36 --> 4218.72] And if you desire -[4218.72 --> 4220.04] To live in obedience -[4220.04 --> 4220.50] To him -[4220.50 --> 4221.72] Whether you are here -[4221.72 --> 4222.74] Gathered with us -[4222.74 --> 4223.92] Or whether you are present -[4223.92 --> 4225.20] Digitally at home -[4225.20 --> 4226.40] You are now invited -[4226.40 --> 4226.98] To come -[4226.98 --> 4228.26] With gladness -[4228.26 --> 4229.28] To the table -[4229.28 --> 4230.52] Of our Lord -[4230.52 --> 4232.48] The gifts of God -[4232.48 --> 4233.80] For the people -[4233.80 --> 4235.14] Of God -[4235.14 --> 4237.82] Thongs -[4237.82 --> 4238.60] Turned to us -[4238.60 --> 4240.56] Thank you -[4240.56 --> 4240.74] For now -[4240.74 --> 4241.36] No -[4241.36 --> 4241.52] You are -[4241.52 --> 4242.10] TF -[4242.10 --> 4272.08] Thank you. -[4272.10 --> 4302.08] Thank you. -[4302.10 --> 4304.10] Thank you. -[4332.10 --> 4334.10] Thank you. -[4362.10 --> 4364.10] Thank you. -[4392.10 --> 4394.10] Thank you. -[4394.10 --> 4396.10] Thank you. -[4422.10 --> 4424.10] Thank you. -[4452.10 --> 4454.10] Thank you. -[4482.10 --> 4484.10] Thank you. -[4484.10 --> 4486.10] Thank you. -[4486.10 --> 4488.10] Thank you. -[4488.10 --> 4490.10] Thank you. -[4490.10 --> 4492.10] Thank you. -[4492.10 --> 4494.10] Thank you. -[4494.10 --> 4495.10] Thank you. -[4495.10 --> 4497.10] Thank you. -[4497.10 --> 4500.38] I want to make sure that everyone who desires to be served has been served. -[4501.58 --> 4503.48] If not, we have gluten-free bread left. -[4503.48 --> 4505.48] Thank you. -[4509.48 --> 4512.72] Body of Christ given for you. -[4513.36 --> 4518.90] And so take, eat, remember, and believe that the body of our Lord Jesus Christ was given -[4518.90 --> 4523.00] for the complete forgiveness of all our sins. -[4523.00 --> 4525.00] Thank you. -[4525.00 --> 4527.00] Thank you. -[4527.00 --> 4529.00] Thank you. -[4529.00 --> 4531.00] Thank you. -[4531.00 --> 4535.00] Thank you. -[4535.00 --> 4537.00] God bless you. -[4537.00 --> 4539.00] Thank you. -[4539.00 --> 4565.04] You are the word at the beginning -[4565.04 --> 4573.00] One with God the Lord most high -[4573.00 --> 4579.54] Your hidden glory in creation -[4579.54 --> 4586.64] Now revealed in you are Christ -[4586.64 --> 4590.26] What a beautiful name it is -[4590.26 --> 4593.82] What a beautiful name it is -[4593.82 --> 4599.82] The name of Jesus Christ my name -[4599.82 --> 4604.82] What a beautiful name it is -[4604.82 --> 4607.82] Nothing compares to this -[4607.82 --> 4611.16] What a beautiful name it is -[4611.16 --> 4614.70] The name of Jesus -[4614.70 --> 4625.70] You didn't want heaven without us -[4625.70 --> 4633.70] So Jesus you brought heaven down -[4633.70 --> 4638.70] As soon was greater, love was greater -[4638.70 --> 4645.70] What could separate us now -[4645.70 --> 4649.70] What a wonderful name it is -[4649.70 --> 4652.70] What a wonderful name it is -[4652.70 --> 4663.70] What a wonderful name it is -[4663.70 --> 4667.70] Nothing compares to this -[4667.70 --> 4670.70] What a wonderful name it is -[4670.70 --> 4674.70] The name of Jesus -[4674.70 --> 4677.70] What a wonderful name it is -[4677.70 --> 4678.70] What a wonderful name it is -[4678.70 --> 4682.70] The name of Jesus -[4682.70 --> 4685.70] What a wonderful name it is -[4685.70 --> 4689.70] What a wonderful name it is -[4689.70 --> 4699.70] Death could not hold you -[4699.70 --> 4713.70] Death could not hold you -[4713.70 --> 4716.70] The veil tore before you -[4716.70 --> 4723.70] You silence the voice of sin and grace -[4723.70 --> 4726.70] The heavens are roaring -[4726.70 --> 4730.70] The praise of your glory -[4730.70 --> 4737.70] For you are raised to life again -[4737.70 --> 4740.70] You have no rival -[4740.70 --> 4743.70] You have no equal -[4743.70 --> 4746.70] Now and forever -[4746.70 --> 4750.70] Now and forever God to reign -[4750.70 --> 4753.70] Yours is the kingdom -[4753.70 --> 4755.70] Yours is the glory -[4755.70 --> 4757.70] Yours is the glory -[4757.70 --> 4760.70] Yours is the name -[4760.70 --> 4764.70] Above all names -[4764.70 --> 4767.70] What a powerful name it is -[4767.70 --> 4768.70] What a powerful name it is -[4768.70 --> 4771.70] What a powerful name it is -[4771.70 --> 4777.70] The name of Jesus Christ my King -[4777.70 --> 4782.70] What a powerful name it is -[4782.70 --> 4784.70] Nothing can stand against -[4784.70 --> 4788.70] What a powerful name it is -[4788.70 --> 4792.70] The name of Jesus -[4792.70 --> 4795.70] You have no rival -[4795.70 --> 4796.70] You have no rival -[4796.70 --> 4799.70] You have no equal -[4799.70 --> 4805.70] Now and forever God to reign -[4805.70 --> 4809.70] Yours is the kingdom -[4809.70 --> 4812.70] Yours is the glory -[4812.70 --> 4814.70] Yours is the name -[4814.70 --> 4817.70] Above all names -[4817.70 --> 4820.70] What a powerful name it is -[4820.70 --> 4823.70] What a powerful name it is -[4823.70 --> 4827.70] What a powerful name it is -[4827.70 --> 4833.70] The name of Jesus Christ my King -[4833.70 --> 4837.70] What a powerful name it is -[4837.70 --> 4840.70] Nothing can stand against -[4840.70 --> 4843.70] What a powerful name it is -[4843.70 --> 4847.70] The name of Jesus -[4847.70 --> 4850.70] What a wonderful name it is -[4850.70 --> 4854.70] What a beautiful name it is -[4854.70 --> 4855.70] The name of Jesus -[4855.70 --> 4857.70] What a beautiful name it is -[4857.70 --> 4860.70] The name of Jesus -[4860.70 --> 4862.70] The name of Jesus -[4862.70 --> 4864.70] The name of Jesus -[4864.70 --> 4865.70] What a beautiful name it is -[4865.70 --> 4868.70] The name of Jesus Christ my King -[4869.70 --> 4870.70] The name of Jesus Christ my King -[4870.70 --> 4871.70] The name of Jesus Christ my King -[4871.70 --> 4872.70] Blood of Christ -[4872.70 --> 4873.70] The name of Jesus Christ my King -[4873.70 --> 4874.70] Blood of Christ -[4874.70 --> 4876.70] Shed for you -[4876.70 --> 4877.70] And so take -[4877.70 --> 4878.70] Drink -[4878.70 --> 4880.70] Remember and believe -[4880.70 --> 4881.70] That the precious blood -[4881.70 --> 4882.70] Of our Lord Jesus Christ -[4882.70 --> 4883.70] Was shed -[4883.70 --> 4885.70] For the complete and absolute -[4885.70 --> 4888.70] Forgiveness of our sins -[4888.70 --> 4890.70] Blessed -[4890.70 --> 4891.70] As. -[4891.70 --> 4892.70] Blessed -[4892.70 --> 4893.70] Thanks -[4893.70 --> 4895.70] gutenberg -[4895.70 --> 4903.72] свои -[4903.72 --> 4908.14] I'm going to invite you and ask -[4908.14 --> 4910.38] as you are able to stand -[4910.38 --> 4913.04] and then we will pray together. -[4914.04 --> 4915.48] I will lead in prayer -[4915.48 --> 4916.94] and then we will end that prayer -[4916.94 --> 4919.78] by receiving God's blessing -[4919.78 --> 4921.12] before our final song. -[4922.84 --> 4923.78] Pray together. -[4927.24 --> 4928.18] Loving God, -[4929.14 --> 4931.62] we thank you that you have fed us -[4931.62 --> 4933.42] in this sacrament. -[4934.14 --> 4935.86] That by it you have united us -[4935.86 --> 4938.02] with Christ and with each other -[4938.02 --> 4939.82] and with the church throughout the world -[4939.82 --> 4942.32] in all times, places and spaces. -[4943.58 --> 4945.04] That here at this table -[4945.04 --> 4948.32] you have allowed us to see you, -[4948.56 --> 4949.82] Lord Jesus, more clearly. -[4949.94 --> 4950.82] And here at this table -[4950.82 --> 4952.74] you have given us a foretaste -[4952.74 --> 4955.00] of your heavenly banquet -[4955.00 --> 4957.44] in your eternal kingdom come. -[4959.14 --> 4961.14] Send us out now -[4961.14 --> 4963.54] in the power of your Holy Spirit -[4963.54 --> 4967.42] to be those who worship in the mess. -[4968.92 --> 4971.48] Work for your praise and glory -[4971.48 --> 4973.68] for the sake of Jesus Christ -[4973.68 --> 4975.70] in whose name we pray. -[4976.84 --> 4977.12] Amen. -[4977.12 --> 4984.08] You go into this week. -[4984.08 --> 4987.00] Go as those who know -[4987.00 --> 4989.92] in the depths of your heart -[4989.92 --> 4992.04] and go as those who, -[4992.30 --> 4993.36] even if you don't know -[4993.36 --> 4994.76] and cannot feel it, -[4996.22 --> 4998.78] but with whom God himself -[4998.78 --> 5000.32] goes in power. -[5001.40 --> 5003.86] Receive his blessing. -[5003.86 --> 5009.14] The Lord bless you. -[5010.42 --> 5011.24] Keep you. -[5012.14 --> 5013.12] The Lord make his face -[5013.12 --> 5014.00] to shine upon you -[5014.00 --> 5016.10] and be gracious to you. -[5016.90 --> 5018.90] The Lord turn his face -[5018.90 --> 5019.64] towards you -[5019.64 --> 5022.78] and give you his peace. -[5022.78 --> 5024.62] In this way, -[5024.72 --> 5026.14] God writes his name -[5026.14 --> 5028.32] on your foreheads. -[5028.32 --> 5029.34] And all God's people said, -[5029.58 --> 5030.92] Amen. -[5030.92 --> 5039.10] Lord bless you. -[5039.30 --> 5039.74] Amen. -[5039.74 --> 5041.06] Amen. -[5041.06 --> 5041.60] Amen. -[5041.60 --> 5041.92] Amen. -[5043.78 --> 5044.28] Amen. -[5044.28 --> 5044.68] Amen. -[5044.68 --> 5045.38] Amen. -[5045.88 --> 5046.36] Amen. -[5048.96 --> 5049.86] Amen. -[5049.86 --> 5050.98] Amen. -[5050.98 --> 5051.20] Amen. -[5051.20 --> 5051.60] Amen. -[5051.60 --> 5052.06] A friend now -[5052.06 --> 5052.80] and remember -[5052.80 --> 5055.76] hisớrj water -[5055.76 --> 5056.78] and the wine -[5056.78 --> 5057.68] and love -[5057.68 --> 5058.72] and -[5058.72 --> 5074.60] Joyful, joyful, we adore you, God of glory, Lord of all. Hearts that fall like clouds before you, O King to the Son of God. -[5074.60 --> 5094.30] Now the clouds of sin and sadness drive the dark of doubt away. Giver of eternal gladness will last with the light of day. -[5094.30 --> 5110.26] You are the one who sings. You are the one who sings. You are the one whose hands lift us from the grave. -[5110.26 --> 5124.26] You are the one who takes our sings away. -[5124.26 --> 5141.96] You are giving and forgiving, ever-blessing, ever-blessed. Fountain of the joy of living, ocean depths of happy rain. -[5141.96 --> 5156.96] You are the one who saves. You are the one whose hands lift us from the grave. -[5156.96 --> 5173.96] You are the one who saves. You are the one who saves. You are the one who saves. -[5173.96 --> 5187.46] Jesus, You are my rescue. I give You everything I am. -[5187.46 --> 5193.20] Jesus, you are my rescue -[5193.20 --> 5202.74] I give you everything I am -[5202.74 --> 5217.18] I give you everything I am -[5217.46 --> 5226.34] Joyful, joyful, we adore you, God of glory, Lord of love. -[5226.34 --> 5234.34] Hearts unfold like fires before you, opening to the sound of love. -[5236.18 --> 5239.50] You are the one who saves. -[5239.88 --> 5243.18] You are the one who saves. -[5243.18 --> 5250.04] You are the one whose hands lift us from the grave. -[5250.90 --> 5257.48] You are the light of life, the everlasting day. -[5258.20 --> 5263.72] You are the one who takes all our sins away. -[5265.38 --> 5271.02] You are the one who takes all our sins away. -[5271.02 --> 5278.74] You are the one who takes all our sins away. -[5278.74 --> 5286.46] You are the one who takes all our sins away. -[5286.46 --> 5294.18] You are the one who takes all our sins away. -[5294.18 --> 5299.18] You are the one who takes all our sins away. -[5299.18 --> 5306.90] You are the one who takes all our sins away. -[5306.90 --> 5336.88] Thank you. -[5336.90 --> 5366.88] Thank you. -[5366.90 --> 5396.88] Thank you. -[5396.90 --> 5426.88] Thank you. -[5426.90 --> 5456.88] Thank you. -[5456.90 --> 5486.88] Thank you. -[5486.90 --> 5516.88] Thank you. -[5516.88 --> 5546.86] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - December 18, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - December 18, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 5b912f7c45406ff225c121efc29ebebbbf92582f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - December 18, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,109 +0,0 @@ -• Invitation to Church Family Skate on Boxing Day -• Advent season is a time of waiting for light in darkness -• Creation groans under the weight of sin; world is broken and incomplete -• Jesus calls us to be his light in a dark world -• We are to shine our light before others, trusting in God's power -• Prayer for trust and guidance to overcome chaos and darkness -• The song "O Come, All Ye Faithful" is sung -• The hymn is repeated multiple times with slight variations in lyrics -• The phrase "We're almost home" is repeated throughout the conversation, possibly referencing a spiritual or metaphorical destination -• A worship service continues at Emmanuel, including the giving of gifts for the church budget and special offering to Union Gospel Mission -• Union Gospel Mission's efforts in providing meals, shelter, outreach, and chaplaincy services -• Statistics on the organization's work in 2021: emergency shelter nights, meals served, housing units found, recovery graduates, and jobs obtained -• A Christmas meal event held by the organization at their downtown east side location, serving 3,500 to 4,000 people -• Bible verse from Hebrews 13:16, mentioning the importance of generosity and sacrificing for others -• Next week's offering is for the budget only -• A song about Jesus Christ's birth and the angels singing -• Discussion of Christmas break and a children's book called "The Lightlings" -• A group of lightlings see a blinding light and are frightened -• Some lightling children are curious and decide to investigate the source of the light -• The story is paused for Christmas Day and will continue afterwards -• Discussion about the church, including common misconceptions that it wants all people's money and is full of hypocrites -• A prayer is given, thanking God for various blessings and asking for His presence in various situations -• Praying for city leaders and those struggling with job loss -• Introduction to reading from Revelation 22 -• Discussing the "stupid fan" making noise during the service -• Announcing a reward if the congregation meets their budget goal -• Reading from Revelation 22:1-7, highlighting the beauty of heaven -• Making a comparison between the movie The Karate Kid and the themes in Revelation -• A young boy named Daniel is confronted by bullies and then meets Mr. Miyagi, a karate expert who becomes his mentor. -• Mr. Miyagi teaches Daniel various tasks such as painting fences, houses, sanding floors, and waxing cars to help him learn karate. -• Daniel initially feels frustrated and doesn't understand the connection between these tasks and karate. -• He struggles with trust and seeing the bigger picture, ultimately leading to frustration and anger. -• The story is used as a metaphor for the Christian season of Advent and waiting for Christ's return. -• The preacher discusses how life can be chaotic and hard to see the big picture, and how it's essential to maintain a strong relationship with God. -• The importance of living in anticipation of the return of the king -• Understanding peace and its definition as "shalom", a Hebrew word meaning wholeness and purpose -• Shalom as universal flourishing, wholeness, and delight -• Human sin as a breaking of shalom and our current state of searching for wholeness -• Two greatest desires/distractions from true shalom -• The two greatest desires in the world today are comfort and security -• These desires are deeply ingrained in Western culture and consumerism -• Friedrich Nietzsche's declaration "God is dead" was a statement that humanity has moved beyond a need for God due to reason and science -• According to Nietzsche, God was an idea created as a crutch for people's unknowing and a means of exercising power over others -• The death of God has had significant effects on society and culture -• The concept of the "death of God" and its impact on European morality -• Crisis of meaning in modern society due to the death of God -• Implications of the death of God on individuals' sense of purpose and meaning -• Questioning of universal values and meaning in a post-Christian world -• Subjective nature of meaning and self-determination vs. shared ground for discerning meaning -• Loss of shared sense of purpose and meaning due to contemporary meaning crisis -• Connection to a higher power or divine teacher has been lost with the supposed "death of God" -• As a result, people are left floundering and trying to find meaning on their own, leading to settling for cheap substitutes -• One such substitute is referred to as "comfort culture" which tries to fill the meaning gap -• The concept of "goblin mode" has been proposed as a cultural phenomenon that reflects this search for comfort and meaning in a chaotic world -• The speaker's house is a mess due to their focus on gaming and avoidance of responsibilities. -• Comfort culture or "goblin mode" refers to extreme comfort-seeking behaviors, such as excessive gaming, eating, or social media use. -• Comfy couch consumption is a form of escapism that fills the meaning gap and ameliorates ennui. -• The speaker acknowledges that consuming distractions can be a temporary coping mechanism for feelings of meaninglessness. -• Resting in God is an expression of trust and gratitude -• Many people have lost the big picture of what it means to live with God, substituting lesser experiences for ultimate things -• Christians often prioritize comfort and security over living in relationship with God -• Living as if God doesn't exist can lead to a functional form of atheism, even among those who claim to believe in Him -• The speaker discusses the idea that Christians often live as "Christian atheists" and how they have lost sight of what a radical faith looks like. -• David Platt's book Radical is referenced, highlighting how people have become comfortable with Christianity instead of embracing the cost of radical discipleship. -• The speaker asks questions about what will fill the meaning crisis, overcome apathy, and allow Christians to live as true followers of Christ rather than just going through the motions. -• Jesus' warning in John 16 that following him will make life more difficult is referenced. -• The importance of having a shared vision of "shalom" or God's peace and plan is emphasized as a starting point for overcoming the meaning crisis. -• The concept of a renewed earth is compared to the Garden of Eden in Genesis 1 and 2 -• The picture of the renewed earth is a city that resembles a garden, representing a progression from the intent at the beginning to its culmination in Revelation 22 -• The river of living water in Revelation 22 is connected to Jesus' reference to "living water" in John 4, which symbolizes restored relationship and shalom with God -• The concept of living water represents the gift of restored relationship and shalom with God -• Humans are constantly thirsting for wholeness, fullness, and completeness, which is what is represented by the river of living water. -• Comfort culture and substitutes for traditional concepts -• Parallels between Genesis and Revelation stories -• The Tree of Life in Genesis and Revelation -• Symbolism and interpretation of the Tree of Life -• Comparison between the two trees in Genesis (Tree of Knowledge) and Revelation (single Tree of Life) -• The tree of life and the cross of Jesus -• Good and evil on the two trees -• Restoration of Shalom (peace) in a new garden -• Healing of the nations through Jesus' death and birth -• Government of God through Jesus Christ -• Breaking of curses and restoration of what was lost -• The concept of Shalom, a Hebrew word meaning peace or completeness -• Serving God as an act of worship and reverence -• The relationship between serving and worship in the Bible -• The distinction between serving and mere physical labor -• The importance of serving God out of love and devotion rather than obligation -• The idea that worship is not just a physical act but also a continuous spiritual one -• The concept of perpetuity and endlessness in worship, as well as its transformative power -• The notion that worship is an ongoing process, even in difficult or chaotic circumstances -• The role of worship in preparing us for the future and allowing us to persevere through hardships -• The idea that worship is a training ground for spiritual growth and transformation -• Worshiping together as a community -• The importance of serving others -• Training one's heart and being preserved by Jesus -• Overcoming darkness with faith in God's light -• Overcoming shame and condemnation with the voice of Jesus -• Inviting Jesus into one's life and presence -• Exchanging truth for comfort or security -• Pursuing God's shalom (peace) over earthly comforts -• The hope of experiencing God's peace at Christmas -• Discussion of a church choir and their upcoming performance -• Reference to the Holy Spirit and God's presence in the lives of the congregation -• Invitation to join a worship service or event at 6pm -• Reminders about singing in the choir and arrival times -• Prayers for protection, guidance, and blessings -• References to biblical concepts such as shalom (peace) and Gloria in excelsis Deo (Latin hymn) -• Discussion of love and serving the Lord \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - December 18, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - December 18, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f18d8e11e23931275154763faf544f2b12dc328a..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - December 18, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2181 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.36] And so we would just invite you to come. There's no cost to that. Rentals are available and included, -[6.36 --> 11.62] so if you don't own skates or if, like me, your kids outgrow everything you buy them within six -[11.62 --> 16.52] months, they have stuff there for you to use, skates and helmets and the like. And so please -[16.52 --> 24.46] come on Boxing Day for Church Family Skate together. I think that's it. And so why don't -[24.46 --> 30.36] we stand together as you're able and where you are. We can be ushered into God's presence for worship -[30.36 --> 39.70] this morning. We gather together as the body of Christ, the church of Jesus, and God meets us -[39.70 --> 46.02] here. He welcomes us into his presence with his greeting. Receive the greeting of God. -[47.22 --> 53.62] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, -[53.62 --> 59.22] and our Savior through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. -[60.76 --> 67.52] And I'm going to invite, I think it's the Nordum family up to the front to light our Advent candle today. -[67.52 --> 67.60] Amen. -[83.62 --> 99.52] Advent is the season of waiting, waiting for light in the darkness, waiting to be filled while empty, -[100.22 --> 102.26] waiting for the return of the King. -[104.44 --> 112.02] The Apostle Paul tells us that all creation is groaning under the weight of sin. The brokenness -[112.02 --> 122.84] of the world is not just a sense we live with. Increasingly it is visible around us. What is visible -[122.84 --> 131.02] now reflects the truth we all have felt. Something isn't right. We are not complete. We long to be made -[131.02 --> 135.78] whole again and for the whole creation to be made new. -[135.78 --> 142.40] Living in anticipation of the return of the King invites us to be a people of patience, endurance, -[142.40 --> 148.10] and faith who can live rejoicing in the world to come and with deep joy in the world that is, -[148.36 --> 154.00] holding on to the love that holds on to us, living it boldly, longing for the day when everything will -[154.00 --> 154.68] be made whole. -[154.68 --> 163.48] We light this candle as a reminder of the peace, the shalom and wholeness that we are all waiting -[163.48 --> 169.56] for and towards which history is constantly moving as we await the full revealing of the -[169.56 --> 171.00] kingdom of God come. -[188.38 --> 195.88] The groaning of the world is loud. The darkness is deep. Into the chaos and confusion, Jesus speaks -[195.88 --> 200.70] with the clarin call. I am the light of the world. You'll be a light to the world. -[200.70 --> 200.78] Amen. -[225.88 --> 235.88] mix it up with the55 cup, be盛s on the Lord. -[235.88 --> 236.88] Amen. -[265.88 --> 267.88] Amen. -[295.88 --> 296.88] Amen. -[325.88 --> 326.88] Amen. -[355.88 --> 356.88] Amen. -[385.88 --> 386.88] Amen. -[415.88 --> 416.88] Amen. -[445.88 --> 446.88] Amen. -[475.88 --> 476.88] Amen. -[505.88 --> 506.88] Amen. -[535.88 --> 536.88] Amen. -[565.88 --> 566.88] Amen. -[595.88 --> 596.88] Amen. -[625.88 --> 626.88] Amen. -[626.88 --> 627.88] Amen. -[627.88 --> 628.88] Amen. -[628.88 --> 629.88] Amen. -[629.88 --> 630.88] Amen. -[630.88 --> 631.88] Amen. -[631.88 --> 632.88] Amen. -[632.88 --> 634.88] Amen. -[634.88 --> 635.88] Amen. -[635.88 --> 636.88] Amen. -[636.88 --> 637.88] Amen. -[637.88 --> 638.88] Amen. -[638.88 --> 639.88] Amen. -[639.88 --> 640.88] Amen. -[640.88 --> 642.88] You may be seated. -[642.88 --> 654.88] As we heard in the Advent reading Jesus calling out, I am the light of the world. -[654.88 --> 661.40] world. You will be a light to the world. In Matthew 5, Jesus says this to us, you are the light of the -[661.40 --> 666.78] world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under -[666.78 --> 672.66] a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand and give its light to everyone in the house. And in the -[672.66 --> 678.18] same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your -[678.18 --> 684.22] Father in heaven. In the brokenness of the world, we are to be his light. In the deep darkness of -[684.22 --> 690.78] this world, we are to be his light. And in the chaos and in the confusion, we are to be his light. -[692.14 --> 696.90] The line that really caught my eye was, let your light shine before others. -[697.98 --> 703.62] There are days when I don't feel like being his light. It's pretty easy to be intimidated by the -[703.62 --> 709.96] darkness. And it begs the question, do we trust our Father enough to be placed on that lampstand -[709.96 --> 716.08] to shine into the chaos? I think it's only by the power of the Holy Spirit living within us, -[716.72 --> 722.44] shining the light of Jesus through us, we can do the things that God has prepared for us -[722.44 --> 725.20] as we wait for our King's return. -[726.52 --> 727.82] Let's bow our heads. -[727.82 --> 736.94] Father, you call us to be your light in this world, bringing your light to all those around us. -[737.86 --> 742.20] Forgive us for not wanting to be that light in the presence of such chaos and brokenness. -[743.02 --> 745.16] Forgive us for being intimidated by the darkness. -[746.48 --> 752.52] Help us to trust in your power to overcome the chaos and to shine your light into the darkness. -[752.52 --> 757.50] Let us experience your deep, deep love. -[758.60 --> 763.56] Show us again how to become your presence in this broken world we live in. -[765.30 --> 774.14] We want to shine your peace, your shalom, as we rest in your love, waiting for your return. -[776.04 --> 776.32] Amen. -[777.60 --> 780.38] Shall we rise and sing, O come? -[780.38 --> 810.36] O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant, -[810.36 --> 840.34] O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant, O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant, O come, let us adore him. -[840.34 --> 843.34] Let us adore him. -[843.34 --> 847.34] Rise, O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant, O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant, O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant. -[847.34 --> 858.32] Sing, choirs of angels, sing in exultation, -[858.32 --> 868.46] Sing, all ye citizens of heaven above. -[868.46 --> 877.78] Glory to God all, glory in the highest, -[877.78 --> 887.08] O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, -[887.08 --> 896.56] O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord. -[896.56 --> 906.26] Say, Lord, we greet thee, for this happy morning, -[907.16 --> 920.42] Jesus, to thee be all glory in the Word of the Father, -[920.42 --> 929.82] Now in flesh appearing, O come, let us adore Him, -[929.82 --> 939.52] O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, -[939.52 --> 944.22] Christ the Lord. -[944.22 --> 954.80] O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, -[954.80 --> 964.52] O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord. -[964.52 --> 989.02] O come, let us adore Him, -[989.02 --> 994.22] Don't drop a single anchor, we're almost home, -[994.22 --> 999.42] Through every soil and danger, we're almost home, -[999.42 --> 1004.04] How many pilgrims sing, standing for us, -[1004.04 --> 1008.64] Rode, let us talk to now, we're almost home. -[1008.64 --> 1017.84] The promised land is calling, we're almost home, -[1017.84 --> 1022.98] And God at sea shall fall, then we're almost home, -[1022.98 --> 1028.16] They crave now your souls, for that peace thou come, -[1028.16 --> 1032.34] They'll turn it back, we're almost home, -[1032.34 --> 1038.24] From those homes, we're almost home, -[1038.24 --> 1044.64] Oh, praise the Lord, we're almost home, -[1044.64 --> 1048.64] We're almost home, -[1048.64 --> 1053.84] As journeys are together, we're almost home, -[1053.84 --> 1059.04] But to thy grave forever, we're almost home, -[1059.04 --> 1064.04] The songs that you will sing, that the God they grow, -[1064.04 --> 1069.04] How a faith of heart, we're almost home, -[1069.04 --> 1077.44] If life is just a vapor, we're almost home, -[1077.44 --> 1082.44] That sun is setting yonder, we're almost home, -[1082.44 --> 1087.44] Take courage for this darkness, shall break to dawn, -[1087.44 --> 1091.84] Oh, praise the Lord, we're almost home, -[1091.84 --> 1095.84] Almost home, we're almost home, -[1095.84 --> 1099.84] So press one, two, and bless the shore, -[1099.84 --> 1104.24] Oh, praise the Lord, we're almost home, -[1104.24 --> 1106.24] We're almost home, -[1106.24 --> 1110.24] Almost home, we're almost home, -[1110.24 --> 1112.24] So press one, two, and bless the shore, -[1112.24 --> 1114.24] Oh, praise the Lord, we're almost home, -[1114.24 --> 1118.64] We're almost home. -[1118.64 --> 1148.62] Thank you. -[1148.64 --> 1162.32] Light of the world, you step down into darkness. Open my eyes, let me see. -[1163.54 --> 1173.90] Beauty that made this heart adore you. Home of our lives spent with you. -[1173.90 --> 1187.40] Here I am to worship, here I am to bow down, here I am to say that you're my call. -[1187.86 --> 1197.90] You're altogether lonely, altogether worthy, altogether wonderful to me. -[1197.90 --> 1212.90] King of all days, you're so highly exalted, glorious in heaven above. -[1212.90 --> 1223.90] Only you came to the earth you created. All for love's sake became whole. -[1223.90 --> 1237.32] Here I am to worship, here I am to bow down, here I am to say that you're my God. -[1237.32 --> 1248.32] You're altogether lovely, altogether worthy, altogether wonderful to me. -[1248.32 --> 1259.32] And I'll never know how much it calls to see my sin upon that cross. -[1259.32 --> 1263.32] You're altogether lovely, altogether lovely. -[1263.32 --> 1271.32] All for love's sake, here I am to bow down, here I am to say that you're my God. -[1271.32 --> 1285.16] So here I am to worship, here I am to bow down, here I am to say that you're my God. -[1285.16 --> 1296.16] You're altogether lovely, altogether lovely, altogether lovely, altogether lovely, altogether wonderful to me. -[1296.16 --> 1307.16] Here I am to worship, here I am to bow down, here I am to say that you're my God. -[1307.16 --> 1322.00] Here I am to worship, here I am to worship, here I am to worship, here I am to worship, here I am to worship, here I am to visit more. -[1322.62 --> 1323.32] tail andmorf. -[1323.32 --> 1325.32] • Lord, Lord, to worship, here increase our state of salvation can come and give good fruit to me. -[1325.32 --> 1344.28] Good morning. -[1345.22 --> 1349.32] My name is Emo, and I'm a deacon at Emmanuel. -[1350.14 --> 1353.58] We continue our worship with the giving of our gifts -[1353.58 --> 1358.84] for the budget, which covers the administration of the church -[1358.84 --> 1362.24] and its ministries, and the special offering, -[1362.72 --> 1364.92] which is Union Gospel Mission, this morning. -[1365.84 --> 1369.44] It was established in 1940 in Vancouver. -[1371.98 --> 1377.40] It's a charitable organization providing meals, education, shelter, -[1378.48 --> 1382.58] safe and affordable housing, drug and alcohol recovery programs, -[1382.58 --> 1387.98] and support services to those struggling with homelessness and addiction -[1387.98 --> 1392.98] in Vancouver, New West, and the City of Mission. -[1393.86 --> 1398.40] Its mission is to restore the God-given dignity of people -[1398.40 --> 1402.44] by sharing and demonstrating the love of Jesus Christ, -[1403.14 --> 1405.84] providing them, without discrimination, -[1405.84 --> 1410.84] meals, shelter, outreach, and chaplaincy services -[1410.84 --> 1413.70] that relieve suffering and renew hope. -[1414.88 --> 1417.88] As Christians, we cannot ignore the poverty, addictions, -[1418.04 --> 1421.30] and homelessness that are present in our communities. -[1421.88 --> 1424.50] In donating to Union Gospel Mission, -[1424.98 --> 1427.22] we help those who are in greatest need. -[1427.22 --> 1433.48] Some examples of the magnitude of their efforts are in 2021, -[1433.48 --> 1440.24] there were 28,362 nights of emergency shelter given, -[1441.24 --> 1447.00] 275,000 meals served, 69 housing units found, -[1447.82 --> 1453.08] 27 alcohol and drug recovery graduates, and 33 jobs found. -[1453.08 --> 1457.28] On December 1st at Union Gospel Mission, -[1457.82 --> 1461.84] they served their 82nd Christmas meal -[1461.84 --> 1464.68] to people on the downtown east side -[1464.68 --> 1469.86] and served 3,500 to 4,000 meals that day. -[1470.66 --> 1471.66] Please give generously. -[1472.84 --> 1476.24] Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, -[1476.70 --> 1479.40] for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. -[1480.04 --> 1481.96] Hebrews 13, verse 16. -[1481.96 --> 1485.46] Next week's offering is for the budget only. -[1485.46 --> 1485.96] Thank you. -[1485.96 --> 1512.96] The shepherds came to see the baby -[1512.96 --> 1516.96] To find His blood inside -[1516.96 --> 1521.96] Here laid the Savior inside a manger -[1521.96 --> 1525.96] Oh, what a glorious night -[1525.96 --> 1530.96] Oh, what a glorious night -[1530.96 --> 1534.96] I hear the angels singing -[1534.96 --> 1540.96] Hallelujah, let the earth receive her King -[1540.96 --> 1543.96] I know that love has come -[1543.96 --> 1545.96] Sing it out -[1545.96 --> 1549.96] Jesus Christ is born -[1549.96 --> 1554.96] I hear that Jesus Christ is born -[1554.96 --> 1565.96] The shepherds wondered -[1565.96 --> 1567.96] They couldn't hide it -[1567.96 --> 1571.96] Told everyone in time -[1571.96 --> 1574.96] All where else they'd send -[1574.96 --> 1576.96] They could not find Him -[1576.96 --> 1580.96] Down on the glorious night -[1580.96 --> 1584.96] I hear that God came down on the glorious night -[1584.96 --> 1587.96] The angels singing -[1587.96 --> 1593.96] Hallelujah, let the earth receive her King -[1593.96 --> 1596.96] I know that love has come -[1596.96 --> 1598.96] Sing it out -[1598.96 --> 1602.96] Jesus Christ is born -[1602.96 --> 1607.96] I hear that Jesus Christ is born -[1607.96 --> 1616.96] Glorious, glorious -[1616.96 --> 1620.96] What a glorious night -[1620.96 --> 1625.96] Glorious, glorious -[1625.96 --> 1628.96] What a glorious night -[1628.96 --> 1629.96] What a glorious night -[1629.96 --> 1631.96] I hear the angels singing -[1631.96 --> 1637.96] Hallelujah, let the earth receive her King -[1637.96 --> 1640.96] I know that love has come -[1640.96 --> 1642.96] Sing it out -[1642.96 --> 1643.96] Jesus Christ is born -[1643.96 --> 1644.96] Sing it out -[1644.96 --> 1645.96] Jesus Christ is born -[1645.96 --> 1647.96] Sing it out -[1647.96 --> 1650.96] I hear that Jesus Christ is born -[1650.96 --> 1654.96] I hear that Jesus Christ is born -[1654.96 --> 1657.96] I hear that Jesus Christ is born -[1657.96 --> 1659.56] has come -[1659.56 --> 1661.90] sing it out -[1661.90 --> 1664.00] Jesus Christ -[1664.00 --> 1665.66] is born -[1665.66 --> 1667.46] Jesus -[1667.46 --> 1670.04] Christ is born -[1687.96 --> 1697.44] All is calm now, all is quiet, a storm shines in us blind. -[1698.32 --> 1711.16] We know in Bethlehem the King is sleeping, oh what a glorious night, oh what a glorious night. -[1717.96 --> 1732.12] Hello, hello, can you guys move a tad bit back? -[1732.12 --> 1734.56] I don't want to step on your nice boots. -[1734.56 --> 1739.40] If you are a child between age three and up to grade four or anyone else and you haven't -[1739.40 --> 1742.40] come up, please come and join us at the front. -[1742.40 --> 1745.00] Do you guys see that? -[1745.00 --> 1748.24] Someone behind me said that it looks like a snow globe outside right now. -[1748.24 --> 1750.24] Take a little peek out the window over there. -[1750.24 --> 1752.24] It is like a snow globe. -[1752.24 --> 1755.92] Yeah, God took the world and you gave it a nice shake and now the snow is floating down. -[1755.92 --> 1757.48] It's very pretty. -[1757.48 --> 1759.76] I have something that you probably don't know. -[1759.76 --> 1761.76] Do you want to know what it is? -[1761.76 --> 1762.76] Yeah. -[1762.76 --> 1764.76] It's Christmas break. -[1764.76 --> 1766.76] Yeah, I actually knew that. -[1766.76 --> 1767.76] You knew that? -[1767.76 --> 1768.76] Did all of you guys know that? -[1768.76 --> 1769.76] Yeah. -[1769.76 --> 1770.76] You knew that too? -[1770.76 --> 1771.76] No. -[1771.76 --> 1772.76] It's Christmas break. -[1772.76 --> 1773.76] Not my Christmas. -[1773.76 --> 1775.32] What's your Christmas break? -[1775.32 --> 1778.32] Well, for some people it's Christmas break which means you get a little time off from -[1778.32 --> 1784.88] school and you probably have some extra fun events happening as we get ready for Christmas. -[1784.88 --> 1789.00] And for Kids Corner we've been reading this book called The Lightlings. -[1789.00 --> 1791.00] Lightlings, not The Lightlings. -[1791.00 --> 1792.00] The Lightlings. -[1792.00 --> 1797.60] And we've learned that these lightlings were created to live in the light maker's light, -[1797.60 --> 1800.00] but then they decided not to listen to him. -[1800.00 --> 1802.00] Do you remember that happened a few weeks ago? -[1802.00 --> 1806.00] And today we're just going to read a really short part about what happens next. -[1806.00 --> 1809.56] So, I'll read it and then I'll show you the picture. -[1809.56 --> 1814.78] Then one night, or perhaps it was day far off in the distance, they saw a blinding light -[1814.78 --> 1816.24] shining through the trees. -[1816.24 --> 1820.12] They could see the light coming from miles and miles away and they were frightened by -[1820.12 --> 1821.12] it. -[1821.12 --> 1825.28] They thought that the light meant the king was coming to find them and punish them for their -[1825.28 --> 1826.28] sins. -[1826.28 --> 1831.84] So, most of the lightlings began to stumble quickly away from the light. -[1831.84 --> 1833.84] They're lightlings. -[1833.84 --> 1837.84] So, lightlings are these little people in the story. -[1837.84 --> 1842.42] But some of the lightling children were so amazed by the light and curious about it that they -[1842.42 --> 1845.84] decided to see from where it was coming. -[1845.84 --> 1848.40] They set off and traveled for miles and miles. -[1848.40 --> 1854.98] It took them a long time, but as they moved, they saw the light shining brighter and brighter. -[1854.98 --> 1868.54] So, I'm going to go ahead and see what they find on Christmas. -[1868.54 --> 1873.26] If you come on Christmas Day, we'll finish off the story up here. -[1873.26 --> 1877.22] We are going to go talk about some more messages that God has for us and what we can do with -[1877.22 --> 1880.54] those messages in our large group and our children's worship time. -[1880.54 --> 1885.74] So, let's stand up first and offer our blessing to the rest of the church and receive their -[1885.74 --> 1886.86] blessings back. -[1886.86 --> 1889.26] I'm going to sing. -[1889.26 --> 1890.86] Alright. -[1890.86 --> 1893.22] The Lord be with you. -[1910.54 --> 1934.42] I guess it's on. -[1934.42 --> 1943.30] When I finished making coffee, then I went to where we always meet as council and we -[1943.30 --> 1945.74] pray for the service. -[1945.74 --> 1949.20] And I didn't make it in because I was a little bit late. -[1949.20 --> 1951.24] But I was told I had to pray. -[1951.24 --> 1952.24] But I knew that. -[1952.24 --> 1954.70] So, it wasn't all bad. -[1954.70 --> 1958.08] There's two things that strike me always. -[1958.08 --> 1965.48] Mostly, by people who always have opinions of the church or the people that go to church. -[1965.48 --> 1969.32] And the one thing is they always want your money. -[1969.32 --> 1972.96] And the second thing is the church is full of hypocrites. -[1972.96 --> 1977.96] And I'd like to just say a few things about both of those things. -[1977.96 --> 1981.96] Number one, the church does not want all your money. -[1981.96 --> 1984.48] But it certainly needs some of it. -[1984.48 --> 1990.36] And that's why, as we get to the end of the year, it helps a lot if we do our part. -[1990.36 --> 1992.96] Second one, the church is full of hypocrites. -[1992.96 --> 1995.28] I'm here to say that that's 100% true. -[1995.28 --> 1996.92] I'm one of them. -[1996.92 --> 2000.06] And if you're perfect, no need to attend. -[2000.06 --> 2002.06] Shall we pray? -[2002.06 --> 2007.62] Father, Lord, in heaven, Lord, thank you. -[2007.62 --> 2010.96] Thank you that we can be amongst believers. -[2010.96 --> 2013.28] Thank you that we can hear your word. -[2013.28 --> 2016.36] Thank you that we can worship with others. -[2016.36 --> 2020.08] Thank you that we have somewhere to go, Lord, because a lot of the world does not. -[2020.08 --> 2023.08] A lot of the world does not even have your word. -[2023.08 --> 2026.30] They can't even openly read it as we can. -[2026.30 --> 2030.78] Lord, thank you for the blessings of this season. -[2030.78 --> 2033.20] Thank you for your son. -[2033.20 --> 2036.24] Thank you that you came down for us, for each one of us, Lord. -[2036.24 --> 2038.98] Thank you that you know each one of us by name. -[2038.98 --> 2041.30] You knew that before we even had our name. -[2041.30 --> 2042.30] Thank you. -[2042.30 --> 2045.30] All the days for us, you knew. -[2045.30 --> 2053.30] Lord, we pray this morning, especially for the people that have left us. -[2053.30 --> 2055.30] Lord, that is so hard. -[2055.30 --> 2058.10] We have somebody we love. -[2058.10 --> 2060.10] We have to say goodbye. -[2060.10 --> 2063.42] Sometimes we know that and sometimes we don't. -[2063.42 --> 2064.42] Lord, we know where they are. -[2064.42 --> 2066.42] We know whose hands they are in. -[2066.42 --> 2074.42] But we still have that empty chair, that empty seat. -[2074.42 --> 2079.42] Lord, we pray will you be with the families that have had to say goodbye. -[2079.42 --> 2087.42] Lord, we thank you also for people today now that have had operations and it's been successful. -[2087.42 --> 2091.74] We pray will you be with them as they recuperate. -[2091.74 --> 2096.10] We pray will you be with people who have just heard news, maybe not so nice news, Lord, -[2096.10 --> 2101.74] that they have something that they have to go for tests or they have to go for treatments -[2101.74 --> 2102.74] or whatever it is. -[2102.74 --> 2103.30] Lord, you know. -[2103.30 --> 2111.98] Help us to know, each one of us, that we are totally in your hands and each day you have -[2111.98 --> 2115.98] already accounted for for us. -[2115.98 --> 2117.98] Lord, how is that even possible? -[2117.98 --> 2122.62] Lord, thank you. -[2122.62 --> 2125.98] Lord, we thank you for the school break. -[2125.98 --> 2127.98] We thank you for the break for the teachers. -[2127.98 --> 2136.66] Lord, we pray will you be with us as we work at home or work elsewhere or we go to school. -[2136.66 --> 2140.98] Lord, we pray for the families that are meeting together this holiday season. -[2140.98 --> 2143.98] We pray for the people who can't. -[2143.98 --> 2150.98] Lord, we pray will you touch us and will you help us to know that you're right there. -[2150.98 --> 2154.98] Lord, thank you for all the blessings. -[2154.98 --> 2158.98] Lord, we live in a place that we don't deserve. -[2158.98 --> 2164.98] We have more than enough, most of us, not all of us. -[2164.98 --> 2169.78] Lord, it's easy to drive by somebody on the street and feel sorry. -[2169.78 --> 2173.66] What do we do? -[2173.66 --> 2177.50] Lord, we pray this morning for your word. -[2177.50 --> 2184.50] We pray will you be with the leaders of our city, of our province, of our country, of -[2184.50 --> 2185.50] the world. -[2185.50 --> 2189.50] Lord, nobody has a job unless you allow it to happen. -[2189.50 --> 2191.50] And Lord, we wonder why sometimes. -[2191.50 --> 2192.50] We truly wonder. -[2192.50 --> 2196.50] But we are all in your hands and we thank you for that, Lord, because we know that is -[2196.50 --> 2197.50] so true. -[2197.50 --> 2199.50] Help us to trust and obey. -[2199.50 --> 2200.50] Help us to hear your word. -[2200.50 --> 2202.50] Help us to enjoy this season. -[2202.50 --> 2204.50] Thank you for your love and care. -[2204.50 --> 2205.50] In Jesus' name we pray. -[2205.50 --> 2209.50] All right. -[2209.50 --> 2235.22] We're going to take some time and open God's Word together. -[2235.88 --> 2238.56] We're going to do that in Revelation 22. -[2239.50 --> 2247.26] And so if you don't know where that is, open your Bible to the last page, and then that's where you are. -[2248.10 --> 2251.16] Revelation 22, last chapter in the Bible. -[2251.70 --> 2256.66] If you use a device to the Bible, then you don't have to open it to the last page. -[2256.80 --> 2258.42] You just type it in, and there it is. -[2259.58 --> 2262.10] In just a moment, I'm going to read. -[2262.10 --> 2272.42] But before we do, I just want to acknowledge, as we sit here, it's a little bit awkward because that stupid fan keeps making that whirly noise. -[2272.66 --> 2277.56] And that only happens when the wind blows from just the right direction, and we have fixed it like six times. -[2279.16 --> 2280.50] Sixty times. -[2280.50 --> 2288.06] That said, Eric Hubert, are you here? -[2288.90 --> 2289.94] All right, here's the challenge. -[2290.34 --> 2294.14] If we make budget by the end of this year, the first thing that gets fixed next year is this. -[2295.60 --> 2296.34] Oh, applause. -[2296.46 --> 2296.90] Look at that. -[2296.90 --> 2299.50] All right. -[2300.34 --> 2305.58] I'm going to ask that you, even if you hear that, right, that you just push through. -[2305.70 --> 2310.40] I'll do my best maybe to talk loud enough where appropriate that it drowns it out. -[2310.94 --> 2313.66] But it's not always going to be appropriate for me to be yelling at you. -[2314.02 --> 2315.18] So you might hear it again. -[2315.82 --> 2316.90] Let's just press through. -[2316.90 --> 2323.92] We've been in this series, this Advent coming into Christmas, in the book of Revelation, -[2323.92 --> 2334.12] and we continue the last Sunday of Advent, the Sunday before Christmas, by looking at the end. -[2334.86 --> 2336.00] Revelation 22. -[2336.30 --> 2339.04] I'm going to read the first seven verses. -[2342.32 --> 2346.84] Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life. -[2346.90 --> 2349.64] As clear as crystal. -[2350.64 --> 2355.72] Flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. -[2356.68 --> 2364.60] On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. -[2365.06 --> 2368.50] And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. -[2369.54 --> 2371.84] No longer will there be any curse. -[2371.84 --> 2374.86] The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, -[2374.86 --> 2377.36] and His servants will serve Him. -[2378.54 --> 2382.82] They will see His face, and His name will be on their foreheads. -[2383.66 --> 2384.92] There will be no more night. -[2385.66 --> 2388.62] They will not need the light of the lamp or the light of the sun, -[2388.74 --> 2391.52] for the Lord God will give them light, -[2391.60 --> 2395.58] and they will reign forever and ever. -[2395.58 --> 2398.54] The angel said to me, -[2398.54 --> 2401.84] these words are trustworthy and true. -[2402.64 --> 2405.56] The Lord, the God who inspires the prophets, -[2405.82 --> 2410.78] sent His angel to show His servant the things that must soon take place. -[2411.82 --> 2414.82] Look, I am coming soon. -[2415.88 --> 2421.96] Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy written in this scroll. -[2421.96 --> 2424.52] This is the word of the Lord. -[2428.88 --> 2434.96] When I was a kid, there was a movie that, by the time I was able to watch it, -[2434.98 --> 2438.00] had already garnered a bit of a cult following. -[2439.18 --> 2441.10] This movie is called The Karate Kid. -[2442.32 --> 2443.16] Some of you know it. -[2443.28 --> 2444.92] I mean, if you're old enough, you remember it. -[2444.98 --> 2446.20] It came out in 1984. -[2446.20 --> 2449.52] I didn't watch it until sometime in the mid-90s. -[2449.84 --> 2453.04] In 1984, I was one, so you shouldn't be watching anyway. -[2453.72 --> 2457.44] Sometime in the 90s, I watched it, and I fell in love with the story. -[2457.96 --> 2459.18] Now, if you don't know the story, -[2459.36 --> 2462.10] and actually probably most of you do, even if you're younger, -[2462.24 --> 2464.18] because in the last couple of years, -[2464.28 --> 2466.50] YouTube read and then Netflix took it -[2466.50 --> 2470.16] and relaunched like a continuation, right, in Cobra Kai. -[2470.84 --> 2475.92] Anyway, the original story is about a young boy named Daniel LaRusso -[2475.92 --> 2478.76] who moves to a new school, and at this new school, -[2478.86 --> 2481.34] he's confronted by a group of bullies, -[2481.44 --> 2484.22] and they look exactly like bullies did in the 80s, right? -[2484.26 --> 2485.92] You all know exactly what I'm talking about. -[2487.10 --> 2488.86] And he's confronted by this group of bullies, -[2488.92 --> 2489.74] and he runs away. -[2490.14 --> 2491.10] They catch up to him. -[2491.14 --> 2491.68] They attack him. -[2491.68 --> 2497.04] And then this old man, who's the gardener at Daniel LaRusso's house, -[2497.52 --> 2499.20] comes, and he breaks up the fight. -[2499.20 --> 2500.56] His name is Mr. Miyagi, -[2501.00 --> 2504.12] and it turns out he is an expert in karate. -[2505.22 --> 2509.40] And so Daniel LaRusso wants to get trained by Mr. Miyagi, -[2509.96 --> 2511.56] and so he goes to him, and he says, -[2511.64 --> 2512.76] can you show me what you did? -[2512.80 --> 2514.44] And so he says, okay, yes. -[2514.64 --> 2516.12] And he begins to train him, -[2516.40 --> 2519.72] except what Daniel ends up having to do, right, -[2519.78 --> 2522.42] is he has to learn how to paint the fence. -[2524.42 --> 2527.18] And then he has to learn how to paint the house. -[2527.18 --> 2530.16] Okay, I'm not going to stop doing that, right? -[2530.22 --> 2532.58] But he also has to learn how to sand the floors. -[2533.22 --> 2538.98] Then, famously, he has to wax on, wax off. -[2539.04 --> 2541.82] Okay, there's at least three other people here who remember this story. -[2543.28 --> 2543.40] Right? -[2543.52 --> 2545.56] Daniel doesn't understand what's happening, -[2545.86 --> 2548.28] and he feels like he's being taken advantage of, -[2548.32 --> 2552.20] and that he's just doing these household chores for this weird old man, -[2552.20 --> 2554.24] and it doesn't make sense. -[2555.32 --> 2555.44] Right? -[2555.48 --> 2556.54] So he gets frustrated, -[2556.94 --> 2559.22] and he questions the purpose of it all. -[2560.94 --> 2563.50] Now, I don't want to take that as a bit of a metaphor. -[2564.94 --> 2565.12] Right? -[2565.16 --> 2566.94] He couldn't see the bigger picture, -[2567.62 --> 2570.92] and he didn't see how these smaller exercises -[2570.92 --> 2576.36] were training related to other different exercises. -[2576.36 --> 2579.74] He couldn't see the big picture, -[2580.28 --> 2582.00] and so he grew frustrated. -[2583.04 --> 2583.60] Right? -[2583.64 --> 2585.26] He couldn't see the big picture, -[2585.48 --> 2588.94] and so in the face of the trials that were happening, -[2589.40 --> 2590.64] he got angry. -[2592.12 --> 2595.50] And then eventually, because he didn't know him well, -[2595.80 --> 2600.86] he didn't trust Mr. Miyagi as the teacher and as the expert. -[2600.86 --> 2600.98] Right? -[2603.08 --> 2605.70] And there's a parable here for us, right? -[2605.72 --> 2608.64] That when you lose sight of the big picture, -[2609.32 --> 2612.82] what's right in front of you becomes all-consuming. -[2614.08 --> 2614.18] Right? -[2614.22 --> 2615.18] It's a mixed metaphor. -[2615.40 --> 2617.58] When you lose sight of the forest, right, -[2617.66 --> 2620.52] all you see is the bark on that one tree -[2620.52 --> 2621.90] that's right in front of your eyes, -[2622.02 --> 2624.98] and you know that bark intimately well, -[2625.04 --> 2629.24] and every groove and crevice in it makes you angry, -[2629.24 --> 2632.70] because it's all you see. -[2633.68 --> 2634.96] And we'll continue that, right? -[2634.98 --> 2637.20] If you can't see the bigger picture, -[2637.48 --> 2639.64] and you don't trust the teacher, -[2639.76 --> 2641.52] the one who's showing it to you, -[2642.14 --> 2644.00] right, you get frustrated. -[2644.82 --> 2647.88] But if you don't have a relationship with the teacher, -[2648.60 --> 2650.60] it's very hard, maybe even impossible, -[2651.40 --> 2652.12] to trust him. -[2654.40 --> 2655.96] This Advent and Christmas, -[2656.66 --> 2658.24] in our series here, -[2658.24 --> 2660.38] we've been looking at the book of Revelation, -[2660.56 --> 2663.54] and we have been trying to open our eyes -[2663.54 --> 2664.78] to the bigger picture, -[2665.08 --> 2666.52] and the one who is painting it. -[2667.80 --> 2670.04] Advent is a season both of looking back, -[2670.34 --> 2671.54] and of looking forward. -[2672.14 --> 2674.44] It's a season of waiting for Christ to come -[2674.44 --> 2676.10] as a child in the manger, -[2676.28 --> 2678.58] and a season of waiting for Christ to come -[2678.58 --> 2682.26] as king heralded by the sound of angels' trumpets. -[2682.26 --> 2685.50] And because life right now, -[2685.64 --> 2686.50] here and now, -[2686.64 --> 2687.10] today, -[2687.18 --> 2688.56] can be so hard, -[2688.80 --> 2690.14] and so full of chaos, -[2690.40 --> 2691.46] and so full of suffering, -[2691.66 --> 2692.24] and challenges, -[2692.36 --> 2693.30] so full of frustration, -[2693.52 --> 2695.66] sometimes it's really hard to see -[2695.66 --> 2696.78] the big picture. -[2697.82 --> 2700.12] And because our hearts are fickle, -[2700.18 --> 2701.76] and we wander away, -[2701.96 --> 2704.62] it's hard to keep a relationship with God -[2704.62 --> 2706.44] strong and vital, -[2706.44 --> 2708.22] like we really believe, -[2708.38 --> 2709.94] and know that it should be. -[2711.08 --> 2711.66] And so, -[2712.56 --> 2714.08] in our time together, -[2714.48 --> 2717.36] we have been focusing our hearts, -[2717.58 --> 2718.98] and our imaginations, -[2719.62 --> 2722.48] on the return of the king. -[2722.48 --> 2725.76] And with our eyes open -[2725.76 --> 2728.40] to the truth of what is happening around us, -[2728.44 --> 2731.30] and to the truth of what will yet come, -[2731.44 --> 2733.56] to the truth of the return of the king, -[2733.70 --> 2735.66] we have been trying to live -[2735.66 --> 2738.68] in anticipation of his return. -[2739.98 --> 2741.62] And that's been our theme, right? -[2741.66 --> 2744.00] We read it every time when we do candles, -[2744.14 --> 2745.30] we hear it here. -[2745.44 --> 2748.58] Living in anticipation of the return of the king -[2748.58 --> 2751.48] calls us to be a people of patient, -[2751.48 --> 2752.32] endurance, -[2752.64 --> 2753.20] and faith, -[2753.40 --> 2756.16] who can live rejoicing in the world to come, -[2756.30 --> 2758.12] and with joy in the world that is, -[2758.50 --> 2761.42] holding on to the love that holds on to us, -[2761.56 --> 2762.58] living it boldly, -[2763.10 --> 2764.64] longing for the day -[2764.64 --> 2767.82] when all will be made whole. -[2769.18 --> 2771.00] This last Sunday of Advent, -[2771.76 --> 2773.18] we look at that last line. -[2773.28 --> 2776.40] We're going to live in this longing for the day -[2776.40 --> 2778.96] when all will be made whole. -[2778.96 --> 2782.68] This last Sunday of Advent, -[2782.90 --> 2785.72] we have called the Sunday of peace. -[2785.88 --> 2787.72] We heard it in the candle lighting ceremony -[2787.72 --> 2788.72] at the beginning, -[2788.92 --> 2791.54] and in this we are looking at the theme of -[2791.54 --> 2793.74] and longing for peace. -[2794.06 --> 2795.86] And we're going to do this in our time -[2795.86 --> 2800.30] by zeroing in and framing around -[2800.30 --> 2802.34] verse 3 of what we read. -[2802.42 --> 2804.28] And so if you've got that there, -[2804.28 --> 2805.40] verse 3, -[2805.40 --> 2808.88] no longer will there be any curse. -[2809.28 --> 2810.86] The throne of God and of the Lamb -[2810.86 --> 2811.82] will be in the city, -[2812.02 --> 2814.92] and His servants will serve Him. -[2816.94 --> 2821.12] This will be our definition of peace. -[2821.74 --> 2823.34] No longer will there be any curse, -[2823.72 --> 2825.30] and the throne of God and of the Lamb -[2825.30 --> 2826.22] will be in the city, -[2826.32 --> 2829.00] and His servants will serve Him. -[2829.00 --> 2831.98] We're coming at this idea of peace -[2831.98 --> 2834.42] in what you might recognize -[2834.42 --> 2836.66] is an almost Jewish sense. -[2838.16 --> 2840.24] Peace here, and for us, -[2840.34 --> 2842.04] is about shalom. -[2842.62 --> 2844.34] That's the Hebrew word, shalom. -[2844.86 --> 2847.96] And shalom is really about wholeness. -[2848.44 --> 2849.58] It is about purpose. -[2849.68 --> 2852.18] It is about purpose-filled and fulfilled, -[2852.40 --> 2855.20] and living out of that purpose. -[2855.20 --> 2859.34] I love the way that theologian -[2859.34 --> 2861.48] and president of Calvin Seminary -[2861.48 --> 2862.10] while I was there, -[2862.24 --> 2864.42] Cornelius Plantinga summarizes it. -[2865.32 --> 2865.74] He writes, -[2866.00 --> 2870.12] In the Bible, shalom means -[2870.12 --> 2872.08] universal flourishing, -[2872.76 --> 2874.42] wholeness, and delight. -[2875.44 --> 2876.76] A rich state of affairs -[2876.76 --> 2878.88] in which natural needs are satisfied -[2878.88 --> 2881.66] and natural gifts fruitfully employed. -[2882.18 --> 2883.84] A state of affairs that inspires -[2883.84 --> 2885.10] joyful wonder -[2885.10 --> 2887.44] as its creator and savior -[2887.44 --> 2888.48] opens doors -[2888.48 --> 2890.32] and welcomes the creatures -[2890.32 --> 2892.16] in whom He delights. -[2892.54 --> 2894.24] Shalom, in other words, -[2894.40 --> 2895.00] he says, -[2895.20 --> 2898.38] is the way things ought to be. -[2900.06 --> 2904.34] Shalom is what you were created for. -[2905.82 --> 2907.26] It's what this whole world -[2907.26 --> 2909.08] was created for, -[2909.18 --> 2911.34] and our rebellion against God. -[2911.46 --> 2913.02] Human sin from the first, -[2913.02 --> 2914.44] from Adam and Eve -[2914.44 --> 2915.96] all the way to the present, -[2915.96 --> 2916.80] to today, -[2916.96 --> 2919.56] is a breaking of shalom. -[2921.18 --> 2921.74] And now, -[2921.90 --> 2924.12] we live in this constant state -[2924.12 --> 2928.12] of searching for that wholeness again, -[2928.28 --> 2931.38] or of settling for something -[2931.38 --> 2934.10] other than true shalom, -[2934.50 --> 2937.06] because we don't know how to find it, -[2937.86 --> 2938.68] but we're looking. -[2938.68 --> 2942.20] Now, I've said it before here, -[2943.02 --> 2946.04] but perhaps the two greatest desires, -[2946.34 --> 2947.42] and because I've said it before, -[2947.50 --> 2948.44] when I say desires, -[2948.54 --> 2949.18] in your head, -[2949.26 --> 2950.46] you might hear the word idols, -[2950.60 --> 2951.26] and that would be fair. -[2952.18 --> 2953.34] But what I mean here -[2953.34 --> 2954.56] are your pursuits, -[2955.00 --> 2957.26] the focuses of your attention, -[2957.84 --> 2959.70] the focus of your heart, -[2959.84 --> 2960.60] your affection, -[2960.88 --> 2962.44] the focus of your effort, -[2963.02 --> 2963.16] right? -[2963.16 --> 2965.14] The two greatest desires -[2965.14 --> 2966.54] in the world today -[2966.54 --> 2968.52] can be boiled down to -[2968.52 --> 2969.78] ideas of comfort -[2969.78 --> 2972.10] and ideas of security. -[2973.92 --> 2974.04] Right? -[2974.28 --> 2976.16] Easy and ease. -[2977.26 --> 2978.22] And if you are living, -[2978.42 --> 2979.08] in any way, -[2979.18 --> 2980.80] out of the 21st century -[2980.80 --> 2983.64] Western consumerist frame, -[2984.04 --> 2986.00] and I'm going to be honest with you, -[2986.08 --> 2987.08] all of us are, -[2987.18 --> 2988.92] because that's the water we swim in, -[2988.92 --> 2990.82] or the snow we shovel, -[2991.00 --> 2991.56] maybe today, -[2992.14 --> 2992.34] right? -[2992.40 --> 2993.46] That's the world -[2993.46 --> 2994.64] we are a part of. -[2994.90 --> 2996.54] If you live in this era -[2996.54 --> 2998.04] and time and place, -[2998.40 --> 3001.28] you are being habitually formed -[3001.28 --> 3002.68] and shaped and pulled -[3002.68 --> 3003.52] and pushed, -[3004.04 --> 3005.44] and part of you -[3005.44 --> 3008.94] is pursuing these twin pillars -[3008.94 --> 3010.98] of comfort and security -[3010.98 --> 3014.06] that so many have come to believe -[3014.06 --> 3015.84] is the purpose of life. -[3015.84 --> 3016.36] Right? -[3017.60 --> 3019.38] And there is a cheap version -[3019.38 --> 3020.46] of shalom -[3020.46 --> 3022.20] that we are being offered -[3022.20 --> 3023.34] and we are told -[3023.34 --> 3024.50] that it will come -[3024.50 --> 3025.86] at the end of the road -[3025.86 --> 3026.96] of enough comfort -[3026.96 --> 3028.28] and enough security. -[3030.96 --> 3031.48] Now, -[3033.52 --> 3034.86] I'm going to do a bit of -[3034.86 --> 3036.78] cultural exegesis -[3036.78 --> 3038.46] with you for a moment. -[3039.70 --> 3040.54] And to do that, -[3040.62 --> 3041.88] we have to do a bit of philosophy, -[3042.22 --> 3044.48] so come along this journey with me. -[3044.48 --> 3045.74] But let me explain -[3045.74 --> 3047.28] what I see here. -[3047.44 --> 3048.68] And to do that well, -[3048.76 --> 3049.78] we actually need to go back -[3049.78 --> 3052.56] 150 years or so. -[3053.32 --> 3054.62] In the 19th century, -[3054.72 --> 3056.16] at the end of the 19th century, -[3056.50 --> 3057.48] there is an atheist philosopher -[3058.04 --> 3060.28] by the name of Friedrich Nietzsche. -[3061.24 --> 3061.44] Now, -[3061.46 --> 3062.92] Nietzsche is most famous -[3062.92 --> 3064.54] for having declared, -[3064.92 --> 3066.30] God is dead. -[3067.28 --> 3067.48] Right? -[3067.54 --> 3068.48] You've probably heard -[3068.48 --> 3070.02] this quote before. -[3070.42 --> 3070.66] Now, -[3070.70 --> 3071.64] when he said that, -[3071.64 --> 3073.40] he wasn't being flippant -[3073.40 --> 3074.50] or dismissive. -[3074.60 --> 3074.68] Right? -[3074.72 --> 3076.28] His argument was that -[3076.28 --> 3078.12] reason and science -[3078.12 --> 3079.72] have moved humanity -[3079.72 --> 3081.60] beyond a need -[3081.60 --> 3083.58] for the idea of God. -[3084.46 --> 3084.66] Right? -[3084.72 --> 3086.36] Especially for understanding -[3086.36 --> 3087.86] how the world -[3087.86 --> 3089.42] has come to be -[3089.42 --> 3090.34] and how it works -[3090.34 --> 3092.50] and what is humanity's place -[3092.50 --> 3093.28] within it. -[3093.32 --> 3093.44] Right? -[3093.46 --> 3094.54] We don't need God. -[3094.64 --> 3095.42] God is dead. -[3095.52 --> 3096.82] We've moved beyond that. -[3098.14 --> 3098.36] Now, -[3098.36 --> 3098.98] for Nietzsche, -[3099.66 --> 3101.34] God was never real. -[3101.84 --> 3101.88] Right? -[3101.92 --> 3103.36] God was an idea -[3103.36 --> 3106.38] that acted for people -[3106.38 --> 3109.14] as a crutch -[3109.14 --> 3110.12] in the face -[3110.12 --> 3111.14] of our unknowing. -[3112.00 --> 3112.22] Right? -[3112.26 --> 3113.06] And that God -[3113.06 --> 3113.86] was an idea -[3113.86 --> 3114.84] that acted for people -[3114.84 --> 3116.02] as a cudgel -[3116.02 --> 3117.52] for our grasping -[3117.52 --> 3118.54] of power. -[3119.54 --> 3119.72] So, -[3119.78 --> 3120.52] according to Nietzsche, -[3120.68 --> 3121.58] God was a crutch -[3121.58 --> 3122.58] and a cudgel -[3122.58 --> 3124.12] and we've moved -[3124.12 --> 3124.92] beyond him -[3124.92 --> 3126.42] or a need -[3126.42 --> 3128.48] for God. -[3128.60 --> 3129.34] He wouldn't use -[3129.34 --> 3130.08] a personal pronoun. -[3131.10 --> 3132.04] But still, -[3133.62 --> 3134.88] Nietzsche recognized -[3134.88 --> 3136.78] that the effect -[3136.78 --> 3139.10] of the death of God -[3139.10 --> 3140.72] would have on society. -[3141.56 --> 3141.64] Right? -[3141.70 --> 3142.50] Nietzsche writes -[3142.50 --> 3143.56] that belief -[3143.56 --> 3144.64] in the Christian God -[3144.64 --> 3146.18] has become unbelievable -[3146.18 --> 3147.76] and then he goes on -[3147.76 --> 3148.68] to say that the cost -[3148.68 --> 3149.80] of the death of God -[3149.80 --> 3150.52] would be, -[3150.82 --> 3151.22] quote, -[3151.22 --> 3154.22] our entire European morality. -[3154.92 --> 3156.34] And then, -[3156.46 --> 3157.50] you read his argument further, -[3157.62 --> 3158.16] he goes on -[3158.16 --> 3159.44] to admit the difficulty, -[3159.88 --> 3160.98] even the possibility -[3160.98 --> 3162.18] for himself, -[3162.46 --> 3163.50] with even all the insights -[3163.50 --> 3164.00] that he has, -[3164.34 --> 3165.20] of supposing -[3165.20 --> 3166.06] what this event -[3166.06 --> 3167.52] really means. -[3170.48 --> 3170.74] Now, -[3171.92 --> 3174.00] taking this, -[3174.12 --> 3175.92] it is my contention -[3175.92 --> 3177.02] and lots of others -[3177.02 --> 3178.10] would agree with this, -[3178.18 --> 3180.86] that the death of God -[3180.86 --> 3182.56] in the Western -[3182.56 --> 3183.90] intellectual tradition -[3183.90 --> 3185.78] that we find ourselves in -[3185.78 --> 3187.66] creates a crisis -[3187.66 --> 3188.68] of meaning -[3188.68 --> 3190.26] in the lives -[3190.26 --> 3191.54] of ordinary people. -[3192.58 --> 3193.86] The death of God -[3193.86 --> 3194.90] creates a crisis -[3194.90 --> 3195.56] of meaning -[3195.56 --> 3196.58] in the lives -[3196.58 --> 3197.54] of ordinary people. -[3197.62 --> 3198.16] So this isn't -[3198.16 --> 3199.16] some obscure philosopher -[3199.16 --> 3200.36] from 150 years ago, -[3200.48 --> 3201.68] this matters for you -[3201.68 --> 3202.30] today. -[3203.30 --> 3204.50] Fast forward to today, -[3204.64 --> 3205.30] this idea -[3205.30 --> 3206.10] is coming home -[3206.10 --> 3206.66] to roost. -[3208.02 --> 3209.58] One of the best podcasts -[3209.58 --> 3210.58] I've listened to -[3210.58 --> 3211.38] recently -[3211.38 --> 3212.58] is you have -[3212.58 --> 3213.78] a cognitive scientist, -[3213.96 --> 3214.64] a psychologist, -[3214.94 --> 3215.96] a Catholic bishop, -[3216.08 --> 3216.82] and a philosopher -[3216.82 --> 3217.98] talking about -[3217.98 --> 3219.24] the meaning crisis. -[3220.40 --> 3221.46] In a world -[3221.46 --> 3222.26] that has pulled -[3222.26 --> 3223.46] or is pulling out -[3223.46 --> 3224.66] the Christian foundations -[3224.66 --> 3225.96] of Western civilization, -[3226.42 --> 3227.50] the cost of that -[3227.50 --> 3228.22] has been -[3228.22 --> 3229.92] our sense of meaning -[3229.92 --> 3231.08] in the world, -[3232.14 --> 3232.28] right, -[3232.30 --> 3233.42] or a shared sense -[3233.42 --> 3233.96] of meaning. -[3235.12 --> 3235.92] So the question's like, -[3236.02 --> 3236.64] what matters? -[3237.16 --> 3238.38] Or why does anything -[3238.38 --> 3239.04] matter? -[3239.04 --> 3240.80] Is there a universal -[3240.80 --> 3242.06] and shared ground -[3242.06 --> 3243.46] for discerning meaning -[3243.46 --> 3244.76] or is it all subjective -[3244.76 --> 3246.28] and self-determined? -[3246.62 --> 3247.80] How do I know? -[3248.12 --> 3249.00] What do I trust? -[3249.10 --> 3250.10] Or who do I trust? -[3251.00 --> 3252.04] That's the crisis -[3252.04 --> 3252.86] that people are -[3252.86 --> 3254.18] living out of -[3254.18 --> 3254.74] right now. -[3254.84 --> 3255.28] They can't, -[3255.42 --> 3256.62] we can't even answer -[3256.62 --> 3258.14] these questions well. -[3259.28 --> 3259.98] And I think that -[3259.98 --> 3260.94] the contemporary -[3260.94 --> 3262.72] meaning crisis, -[3264.24 --> 3266.66] let me say this, -[3266.74 --> 3268.12] this meaning crisis, -[3268.12 --> 3269.60] for some of you, -[3269.72 --> 3270.86] particularly if you're older, -[3271.34 --> 3272.44] what I'm saying to you -[3272.44 --> 3273.14] right now doesn't -[3273.14 --> 3273.90] make any sense. -[3274.86 --> 3276.14] But if you're in your 20s, -[3276.88 --> 3278.16] this is your life. -[3278.98 --> 3280.08] If you're a teenager -[3280.08 --> 3280.54] right now -[3280.54 --> 3281.28] and the trajectory -[3281.28 --> 3281.88] that we're on -[3281.88 --> 3282.44] holds true, -[3282.74 --> 3283.58] this will be -[3283.58 --> 3285.32] incredibly important -[3285.32 --> 3286.14] for you to be thinking -[3286.14 --> 3287.30] about and discerning. -[3288.68 --> 3288.78] Right? -[3288.84 --> 3289.68] And here's the thing, -[3289.94 --> 3290.08] right, -[3290.14 --> 3291.56] you may not be able -[3291.56 --> 3293.04] to exactly articulate -[3293.04 --> 3294.66] what I'm talking about here -[3294.66 --> 3295.70] as a meaning crisis, -[3295.70 --> 3297.40] but you feel it -[3297.40 --> 3299.06] in your soul. -[3301.02 --> 3302.10] And I think that there is a, -[3302.60 --> 3303.82] in this contemporary -[3303.82 --> 3304.68] meaning crisis, -[3304.68 --> 3306.32] there is a straight line -[3306.32 --> 3308.62] between the feeling -[3308.62 --> 3309.66] of this crisis -[3309.66 --> 3311.66] and the loss -[3311.66 --> 3312.72] of shalom. -[3313.40 --> 3316.22] The loss of a shared idea -[3316.22 --> 3317.54] of what shalom -[3317.54 --> 3319.26] really is. -[3320.28 --> 3321.60] And because we've lost -[3321.60 --> 3322.98] this shared sense -[3322.98 --> 3324.36] and idea of shalom, -[3324.68 --> 3326.40] we've lost our connection -[3326.40 --> 3327.60] to purpose. -[3328.36 --> 3329.74] We've lost our sense -[3329.74 --> 3330.64] of the direction -[3330.64 --> 3332.34] that this is all headed in. -[3333.48 --> 3333.60] Right? -[3333.66 --> 3334.56] And with the supposed -[3334.56 --> 3335.66] death of God, -[3335.76 --> 3337.08] we've lost our teacher. -[3338.24 --> 3338.36] Right? -[3338.36 --> 3339.06] The one that we were -[3339.06 --> 3340.02] supposed to trust -[3340.02 --> 3341.06] to get us through -[3341.06 --> 3342.10] and to train us -[3342.10 --> 3342.70] to the end. -[3342.86 --> 3343.82] And without trust -[3343.82 --> 3344.78] and without the teacher, -[3345.10 --> 3345.84] without our sense -[3345.84 --> 3346.86] of where we are headed, -[3347.14 --> 3348.16] so many of us -[3348.16 --> 3349.74] are just left floundering -[3349.74 --> 3351.06] and feeling lost -[3351.06 --> 3352.08] and trying to figure it out -[3352.08 --> 3352.66] on our own. -[3352.92 --> 3354.12] And in trying to figure it out -[3354.12 --> 3354.68] on our own, -[3354.86 --> 3355.80] we have created -[3355.80 --> 3357.18] and settled for -[3357.18 --> 3358.28] these cheap -[3358.28 --> 3360.42] and other substitutes. -[3362.86 --> 3363.90] Now, there are countless -[3363.90 --> 3365.42] of these in the world today. -[3365.46 --> 3366.34] And I'm going to zero in -[3366.34 --> 3367.52] on just one -[3367.52 --> 3368.10] that relates -[3368.10 --> 3369.56] to our time this morning. -[3370.36 --> 3371.42] But we can talk further -[3371.42 --> 3372.28] and see how this -[3372.28 --> 3373.68] works itself out. -[3373.88 --> 3375.20] One of the substitutes -[3375.20 --> 3376.78] that we have created -[3376.78 --> 3377.66] in the world today -[3377.66 --> 3378.98] that tries to fill -[3378.98 --> 3380.28] this meaning gap -[3380.28 --> 3382.08] has been called -[3382.08 --> 3384.70] by some comfort culture. -[3386.24 --> 3386.68] Let me give you -[3386.68 --> 3387.46] an illustration of this. -[3387.54 --> 3388.24] Every year, -[3388.54 --> 3389.54] around this time, -[3389.90 --> 3391.46] the Oxford Dictionary -[3391.46 --> 3392.16] and all the other -[3392.16 --> 3393.70] online dictionaries, -[3393.80 --> 3394.62] they begin to sort of -[3394.62 --> 3395.62] publish their -[3395.62 --> 3396.86] word of the year. -[3397.54 --> 3397.64] Right? -[3397.76 --> 3399.22] News reports, -[3399.34 --> 3400.68] CBC does this every year. -[3400.76 --> 3401.30] They kind of take -[3401.30 --> 3402.20] the collection of them -[3402.20 --> 3402.90] and tell you -[3402.90 --> 3403.76] what the word -[3403.76 --> 3405.26] of the year is. -[3405.74 --> 3406.00] Right? -[3406.06 --> 3406.60] And it's a word -[3406.60 --> 3407.28] that is intended -[3407.28 --> 3408.10] to sort of like -[3408.10 --> 3409.88] define or explain -[3409.88 --> 3410.86] the experience -[3410.86 --> 3411.78] of the year before. -[3412.00 --> 3413.14] Sometimes it's a new word -[3413.14 --> 3413.92] that was created -[3413.92 --> 3415.28] during that year -[3415.28 --> 3415.84] and it's added -[3415.84 --> 3416.52] to the dictionary. -[3417.36 --> 3417.54] Anyways, -[3417.56 --> 3418.40] there's all sorts of -[3418.40 --> 3419.46] words that come -[3419.46 --> 3420.38] and there's runners up -[3420.38 --> 3420.86] and the like. -[3421.16 --> 3422.44] One of the words -[3422.44 --> 3423.48] for this year -[3423.48 --> 3425.20] is goblin mode. -[3426.72 --> 3427.14] Some of you -[3427.14 --> 3427.64] are looking at me -[3427.64 --> 3428.26] like I'm crazy. -[3428.38 --> 3429.56] Have anyone else -[3429.56 --> 3430.22] heard of the word -[3430.22 --> 3431.02] goblin mode? -[3431.68 --> 3432.08] Yeah, see, -[3432.18 --> 3432.82] there's some people -[3432.82 --> 3433.42] in their 20s -[3433.42 --> 3433.76] who are like, -[3433.84 --> 3434.00] yeah, -[3434.18 --> 3434.94] I know exactly -[3434.94 --> 3435.62] what that is. -[3436.52 --> 3437.58] Goblin mode -[3437.58 --> 3440.72] refers to, -[3441.62 --> 3442.54] how can I -[3442.54 --> 3443.94] articulate it? -[3444.94 --> 3445.78] Your house -[3445.78 --> 3446.50] is a mess -[3446.50 --> 3448.00] because you've -[3448.00 --> 3449.28] ordered Uber Eats -[3449.28 --> 3450.64] for the last six days -[3450.64 --> 3452.24] and you haven't -[3452.24 --> 3452.90] done laundry -[3452.90 --> 3454.18] because you are -[3454.18 --> 3455.14] committed to -[3455.14 --> 3457.18] 100% completing -[3457.18 --> 3458.14] the new god of war. -[3459.30 --> 3460.04] And so you're -[3460.04 --> 3461.00] living in track pants -[3461.00 --> 3462.70] and in sloth -[3462.70 --> 3463.86] because that's -[3463.86 --> 3464.28] what you're going -[3464.28 --> 3464.62] to do. -[3464.62 --> 3465.46] And it doesn't -[3465.46 --> 3465.68] matter. -[3465.78 --> 3466.48] You look like -[3466.48 --> 3467.08] a goblin. -[3468.50 --> 3468.60] Right? -[3468.64 --> 3470.46] That's goblin mode. -[3471.02 --> 3471.08] Right? -[3471.28 --> 3472.28] Comfort culture -[3472.28 --> 3473.80] or goblin mode -[3473.80 --> 3474.62] is like the extreme -[3474.62 --> 3475.50] form of comfort -[3475.50 --> 3475.90] culture. -[3476.48 --> 3477.14] Comfort culture -[3477.14 --> 3478.56] is Netflix -[3478.56 --> 3479.32] binging -[3479.32 --> 3480.94] and not knowing -[3480.94 --> 3481.30] what happened -[3481.30 --> 3481.90] to the last six -[3481.90 --> 3482.60] hours of your day. -[3483.56 --> 3483.66] Right? -[3483.74 --> 3484.32] Comfort culture -[3484.32 --> 3485.40] is Instagram -[3485.40 --> 3486.20] scrolling -[3486.20 --> 3488.98] because you don't -[3488.98 --> 3489.54] really want to deal -[3489.54 --> 3489.94] with the people -[3489.94 --> 3490.50] beside you. -[3491.58 --> 3492.28] Comfort culture -[3492.28 --> 3493.48] is fantasy -[3493.48 --> 3495.10] sports scheming -[3495.10 --> 3495.90] and planning -[3495.90 --> 3496.82] and trading -[3496.82 --> 3498.08] and shifting. -[3499.64 --> 3500.62] One writer -[3500.62 --> 3502.08] that I read -[3502.08 --> 3502.62] this week -[3502.62 --> 3503.62] called them -[3503.62 --> 3505.38] comfy couch -[3505.38 --> 3506.38] consolations -[3506.38 --> 3507.22] to fill -[3507.22 --> 3508.04] the meaning -[3508.04 --> 3508.44] gap. -[3509.44 --> 3510.10] They said -[3510.10 --> 3510.90] it is a form -[3510.90 --> 3511.64] of consumption -[3511.64 --> 3513.12] to ameliorate -[3513.12 --> 3513.86] ennui. -[3515.14 --> 3516.08] Comfy couch -[3516.08 --> 3516.64] consumption -[3516.64 --> 3518.14] to fill -[3518.14 --> 3519.50] the meaning -[3519.50 --> 3519.84] gap -[3519.84 --> 3520.76] and consumption -[3520.76 --> 3522.16] to ameliorate -[3522.16 --> 3522.92] ennui. -[3524.10 --> 3525.02] I repeat that -[3525.02 --> 3525.60] because I just think -[3525.60 --> 3526.46] some people can write. -[3527.26 --> 3527.78] Some people know -[3527.78 --> 3528.34] how to write -[3528.34 --> 3529.04] and it's compelling -[3529.04 --> 3530.36] but the point is -[3530.36 --> 3531.80] that we consume -[3531.80 --> 3533.08] distractions -[3533.08 --> 3534.76] to numb us -[3534.76 --> 3535.72] or to perhaps -[3535.72 --> 3536.64] hold at bay -[3536.64 --> 3537.46] for five minutes -[3537.46 --> 3538.30] longer the truth -[3538.30 --> 3539.36] that I really just -[3539.36 --> 3540.08] feel this sense -[3540.08 --> 3540.84] of meaninglessness. -[3542.18 --> 3542.40] And now -[3542.40 --> 3543.20] don't hear what -[3543.20 --> 3543.88] I'm not saying -[3543.88 --> 3544.16] right? -[3544.22 --> 3545.06] Because I love -[3545.06 --> 3545.76] a good movie. -[3546.76 --> 3547.74] And I'm the first -[3547.74 --> 3548.72] to enjoy -[3548.72 --> 3549.62] a good game -[3549.62 --> 3550.30] a video game -[3550.30 --> 3550.84] or otherwise. -[3551.40 --> 3552.34] I love food -[3552.34 --> 3552.82] and I love -[3552.82 --> 3553.62] foodie culture -[3553.62 --> 3554.64] and I believe -[3554.64 --> 3555.88] that most of these -[3555.88 --> 3556.12] things, -[3556.20 --> 3557.12] maybe even all of them -[3557.12 --> 3557.80] if done properly -[3557.80 --> 3558.68] are good gifts -[3558.68 --> 3559.14] of God -[3559.14 --> 3559.94] for his people. -[3560.36 --> 3560.92] And I believe -[3560.92 --> 3561.56] that we can even -[3561.56 --> 3562.48] look at some -[3562.48 --> 3563.00] of these things -[3563.00 --> 3563.70] as part of -[3563.70 --> 3564.44] God's gift -[3564.44 --> 3565.54] of common grace -[3565.54 --> 3566.44] to the world -[3566.44 --> 3567.04] as we learn -[3567.04 --> 3567.98] how to rest -[3567.98 --> 3568.86] in him -[3568.86 --> 3569.60] and as our rest -[3569.60 --> 3570.38] is an expression -[3570.38 --> 3571.24] of our trust -[3571.24 --> 3571.94] in him -[3571.94 --> 3572.64] and our gratitude -[3572.64 --> 3573.74] for all that -[3573.74 --> 3574.50] he has done. -[3575.76 --> 3576.80] But, -[3577.60 --> 3579.68] and I'll say it again, -[3580.44 --> 3581.32] because we have -[3581.32 --> 3582.58] lost the big picture, -[3583.22 --> 3584.74] because we no longer -[3584.74 --> 3585.70] have comprehensive -[3585.70 --> 3586.72] understanding of -[3586.72 --> 3587.22] shalom -[3587.22 --> 3588.32] that God has -[3588.32 --> 3589.36] created us for -[3589.36 --> 3590.06] and to live -[3590.06 --> 3590.94] with him in, -[3591.34 --> 3592.48] we substitute -[3592.48 --> 3594.24] these lesser glories, -[3594.46 --> 3595.08] these lesser -[3595.08 --> 3596.32] experiences of shalom, -[3596.44 --> 3597.54] these other good things -[3597.54 --> 3599.06] into ultimate things. -[3599.40 --> 3601.28] We take them -[3601.28 --> 3601.80] in place -[3601.80 --> 3602.54] of the fullest -[3602.54 --> 3603.22] one. -[3603.22 --> 3603.88] Right? -[3603.92 --> 3604.72] We want Netflix -[3604.72 --> 3606.22] to numb the reality -[3606.22 --> 3607.58] of our unknowing. -[3607.90 --> 3608.58] We want scrolling -[3608.58 --> 3609.46] Instagram reels -[3609.46 --> 3610.30] to hold at bay -[3610.30 --> 3611.50] the dissatisfaction -[3611.50 --> 3612.46] we have with -[3612.46 --> 3613.14] our own lives. -[3614.72 --> 3616.38] And here's the thing, -[3616.44 --> 3616.88] and here's where -[3616.88 --> 3617.88] we begin to tie -[3617.88 --> 3618.54] this all together. -[3618.96 --> 3619.92] Because as Christians, -[3620.16 --> 3620.70] sitting here -[3620.70 --> 3622.16] on Sunday especially, -[3622.40 --> 3622.52] right, -[3622.64 --> 3623.68] we know that -[3623.68 --> 3624.80] Nietzsche was wrong -[3624.80 --> 3626.06] when he declared -[3626.06 --> 3626.92] God is dead. -[3626.92 --> 3626.96] dead. -[3627.84 --> 3628.88] And yet, -[3629.76 --> 3632.28] I would dare say -[3632.28 --> 3633.04] that every one -[3633.04 --> 3633.66] of us -[3633.66 --> 3635.54] lives -[3635.54 --> 3636.94] as if these -[3636.94 --> 3637.86] idols of comfort -[3637.86 --> 3638.72] and security -[3638.72 --> 3640.30] are true -[3640.30 --> 3640.94] and our full -[3640.94 --> 3641.56] sense of meaning. -[3641.90 --> 3642.82] And when we live -[3642.82 --> 3643.38] with these -[3643.38 --> 3644.44] as our source -[3644.44 --> 3644.92] of meaning -[3644.92 --> 3645.50] and purpose -[3645.50 --> 3646.04] in the world -[3646.04 --> 3647.02] in order to increase -[3647.02 --> 3647.62] our comfort -[3647.62 --> 3648.36] and security, -[3648.60 --> 3649.94] we end up proving -[3649.94 --> 3651.34] Nietzsche functionally -[3651.34 --> 3652.26] right. -[3654.76 --> 3655.72] I'll put it this way, -[3655.72 --> 3656.46] a few years ago, -[3657.08 --> 3658.00] Craig Groeschel -[3658.00 --> 3658.64] wrote a book -[3658.64 --> 3660.36] that gets at this idea. -[3660.48 --> 3661.10] The book that he wrote -[3661.10 --> 3661.50] is called -[3661.50 --> 3662.82] The Christian Atheist. -[3663.68 --> 3664.98] The tagline of that book -[3664.98 --> 3665.68] tells you what you need -[3665.68 --> 3665.92] to know. -[3665.98 --> 3666.16] It says, -[3666.52 --> 3667.54] Believing in God -[3667.54 --> 3668.68] but living as if -[3668.68 --> 3669.76] he doesn't exist. -[3672.80 --> 3673.78] Who does that define? -[3676.06 --> 3676.84] You don't actually -[3676.84 --> 3677.72] have to put your hands up, -[3678.92 --> 3680.06] but I suggest -[3680.06 --> 3681.72] every one of us. -[3683.06 --> 3683.94] Believing in God -[3683.94 --> 3684.66] but living as he -[3684.66 --> 3685.64] doesn't exist. -[3685.72 --> 3686.16] He goes on -[3686.16 --> 3686.90] to ask the question, -[3687.00 --> 3688.00] who do we believe more, -[3688.10 --> 3689.68] ourselves or God? -[3690.50 --> 3691.46] Our actions -[3691.46 --> 3692.36] and decisions -[3692.36 --> 3693.82] will reflect -[3693.82 --> 3695.62] that answer. -[3697.84 --> 3699.14] That's an introspection -[3699.14 --> 3700.00] question -[3700.00 --> 3701.50] that kind of scares me -[3701.50 --> 3702.28] a little bit -[3702.28 --> 3702.78] and it's one -[3702.78 --> 3703.70] that I force myself -[3703.70 --> 3704.52] to ask over -[3704.52 --> 3705.68] and over again -[3705.68 --> 3706.82] and I sometimes -[3706.82 --> 3707.98] wonder if -[3707.98 --> 3709.46] as a church -[3709.46 --> 3710.84] we profess -[3710.84 --> 3712.32] belief in God -[3712.32 --> 3714.26] but we live -[3714.26 --> 3715.10] as atheists. -[3715.72 --> 3718.58] David Platt -[3718.58 --> 3720.00] in his awesome -[3720.00 --> 3720.78] little book -[3720.78 --> 3721.38] Radical -[3721.38 --> 3722.84] he writes -[3722.84 --> 3723.42] the following. -[3723.54 --> 3723.82] He says, -[3724.46 --> 3725.72] somewhere along the way -[3725.72 --> 3726.46] we have missed -[3726.46 --> 3727.20] what is radical -[3727.20 --> 3728.20] about our faith -[3728.20 --> 3729.24] and replaced it -[3729.24 --> 3730.38] with what is comfortable. -[3731.26 --> 3732.06] We settle -[3732.06 --> 3732.90] for a Christianity -[3732.90 --> 3734.10] that revolves around -[3734.10 --> 3735.46] catering to ourselves -[3735.46 --> 3737.08] when the central message -[3737.08 --> 3737.72] of Christianity -[3737.72 --> 3739.20] is actually about -[3739.20 --> 3740.22] abandoning -[3740.22 --> 3741.12] ourselves. -[3741.12 --> 3745.50] and so what is it -[3745.50 --> 3747.14] that will fill up -[3747.14 --> 3748.48] the meaning crisis? -[3749.52 --> 3750.26] What is it -[3750.26 --> 3751.18] that will overcome -[3751.18 --> 3752.48] your apathy? -[3753.36 --> 3754.04] What is it -[3754.04 --> 3755.02] that will allow us -[3755.02 --> 3755.66] to live -[3755.66 --> 3756.84] as Christians -[3756.84 --> 3758.46] not as Christian -[3758.46 --> 3759.62] atheists? -[3759.98 --> 3761.10] As though God -[3761.10 --> 3762.28] is truly God -[3762.28 --> 3762.96] and powerful -[3762.96 --> 3763.80] and sovereign -[3763.80 --> 3764.92] over all the earth -[3764.92 --> 3765.78] and what will that -[3765.78 --> 3766.58] change -[3766.58 --> 3767.56] if you do? -[3767.56 --> 3769.60] What do we need -[3769.60 --> 3770.94] to cast off -[3770.94 --> 3772.00] or how do we -[3772.00 --> 3772.66] cast off -[3772.66 --> 3773.48] the comfortable -[3773.48 --> 3774.94] and then embrace -[3774.94 --> 3775.88] the cost -[3775.88 --> 3776.98] of radical -[3776.98 --> 3778.16] discipleship? -[3780.16 --> 3780.98] And while there's -[3780.98 --> 3781.90] no easy answer -[3781.90 --> 3783.14] to that question -[3783.14 --> 3784.04] and every one of you -[3784.04 --> 3785.20] will have to discern -[3785.20 --> 3786.22] what that means -[3786.22 --> 3786.64] for you -[3786.64 --> 3787.38] and how you will -[3787.38 --> 3787.92] do that -[3787.92 --> 3789.52] I know -[3789.52 --> 3790.78] that doing this -[3790.78 --> 3791.82] and asking these questions -[3791.82 --> 3792.52] answering them -[3792.52 --> 3793.38] will actually -[3793.38 --> 3794.90] have the impact -[3794.90 --> 3795.98] of making life -[3795.98 --> 3797.22] more difficult -[3797.22 --> 3798.50] for most of us. -[3800.04 --> 3800.98] And Jesus knew -[3800.98 --> 3801.96] that that would be true too -[3801.96 --> 3803.24] because he warned us -[3803.24 --> 3804.34] in John 16 -[3804.34 --> 3804.96] he says -[3804.96 --> 3805.88] in this world -[3805.88 --> 3806.96] you will have trouble. -[3809.86 --> 3810.80] But he adds -[3810.80 --> 3811.64] take heart -[3811.64 --> 3814.74] I have overcome -[3814.74 --> 3816.20] the world. -[3818.48 --> 3819.30] And so I believe -[3819.30 --> 3821.56] that the beginning -[3821.56 --> 3822.62] of an answer -[3822.62 --> 3824.08] to the meaning crisis -[3824.08 --> 3824.90] that we find -[3824.90 --> 3825.84] ourselves in -[3825.84 --> 3826.82] starts -[3826.82 --> 3828.06] with a shared -[3828.06 --> 3828.64] vision -[3828.64 --> 3829.78] of what is ahead. -[3830.56 --> 3831.66] Starts with a shared -[3831.66 --> 3832.36] vision of -[3832.36 --> 3833.54] of shalom -[3833.54 --> 3834.06] that is -[3834.06 --> 3835.00] compelling -[3835.00 --> 3836.40] to our hearts -[3836.40 --> 3837.26] and to our -[3837.26 --> 3838.04] imaginations. -[3839.62 --> 3840.14] And so John -[3840.14 --> 3840.56] writes -[3840.56 --> 3840.98] he says -[3840.98 --> 3841.86] then the angel -[3841.86 --> 3842.74] showed me -[3842.74 --> 3843.62] the river -[3843.62 --> 3844.42] of the water -[3844.42 --> 3845.08] of life -[3845.08 --> 3846.10] as clear -[3846.10 --> 3847.24] as crystal -[3847.24 --> 3847.86] flowing -[3847.86 --> 3848.82] from the throne -[3848.82 --> 3849.44] of God -[3849.44 --> 3850.70] and of the Lamb. -[3851.62 --> 3851.70] Right? -[3851.76 --> 3852.10] But John -[3852.10 --> 3852.80] is giving us -[3852.80 --> 3853.60] this beautiful -[3853.60 --> 3854.14] picture -[3854.14 --> 3855.48] of a renewed -[3855.48 --> 3856.40] earth -[3856.40 --> 3857.68] and it's a picture -[3857.68 --> 3858.60] that parallels -[3858.60 --> 3859.66] quite closely -[3859.66 --> 3860.58] the garden -[3860.58 --> 3861.22] of Eden -[3861.22 --> 3861.84] that we see -[3861.84 --> 3862.66] in Genesis 1 -[3862.66 --> 3863.14] and 2 -[3863.14 --> 3863.84] but here -[3863.84 --> 3864.48] now -[3864.48 --> 3865.36] it's not just -[3865.36 --> 3865.90] a garden -[3865.90 --> 3867.22] but it's a city -[3867.22 --> 3868.40] that looks like -[3868.40 --> 3868.86] a garden. -[3869.28 --> 3869.64] And so there's -[3869.64 --> 3870.52] been this progression -[3870.52 --> 3871.36] this movement -[3871.36 --> 3872.24] from the intent -[3872.24 --> 3873.00] in the beginning -[3873.00 --> 3874.94] now that culminates -[3874.94 --> 3875.90] and comes together -[3875.90 --> 3877.08] in this beautiful -[3877.08 --> 3877.94] picture. -[3877.94 --> 3878.20] Right? -[3878.48 --> 3879.42] And so we see -[3879.42 --> 3880.12] the world -[3880.12 --> 3881.00] the way it was -[3881.00 --> 3882.52] before the rebellion -[3882.52 --> 3883.56] against God -[3883.56 --> 3884.54] before the fall -[3884.54 --> 3885.42] the shalom -[3885.42 --> 3886.44] that Adam and Eve -[3886.44 --> 3888.12] lived with God -[3888.12 --> 3889.08] in the midst of -[3889.08 --> 3889.86] we see that -[3889.86 --> 3890.80] restored -[3890.80 --> 3892.00] and this world -[3892.00 --> 3892.92] transformed -[3892.92 --> 3893.66] right? -[3893.76 --> 3894.48] This river -[3894.48 --> 3895.02] we read -[3895.02 --> 3896.12] is made up -[3896.12 --> 3897.72] of living water. -[3898.34 --> 3899.02] That phrase -[3899.02 --> 3899.80] living water -[3899.80 --> 3900.56] is the same -[3900.56 --> 3901.40] word pair -[3901.40 --> 3902.88] that Jesus uses -[3902.88 --> 3903.62] when talking -[3903.62 --> 3904.46] to the woman -[3904.46 --> 3905.08] at the well -[3905.08 --> 3905.96] in John 4. -[3906.44 --> 3906.62] Right? -[3906.62 --> 3907.52] The Samaritan woman -[3907.52 --> 3908.32] asks -[3908.32 --> 3909.42] Jesus asks her -[3909.42 --> 3909.90] for water -[3909.90 --> 3910.66] she gets him some -[3910.66 --> 3911.62] and then he tells her -[3911.62 --> 3912.94] that if she knew -[3912.94 --> 3913.92] who he was -[3913.92 --> 3914.84] or who was speaking -[3914.84 --> 3916.40] she would ask him -[3916.40 --> 3917.16] for water -[3917.16 --> 3918.28] and he would have -[3918.28 --> 3918.74] given her -[3918.74 --> 3919.68] living water -[3919.68 --> 3920.54] and he says -[3920.54 --> 3922.08] the water -[3922.08 --> 3923.08] I give them -[3923.08 --> 3923.74] will become -[3923.74 --> 3924.24] in them -[3924.24 --> 3925.66] a spring of water -[3925.66 --> 3926.38] welling up -[3926.38 --> 3928.28] to eternal life. -[3929.66 --> 3930.12] And so here -[3930.12 --> 3930.98] you have this picture -[3930.98 --> 3932.98] in Revelation 22 -[3932.98 --> 3934.22] sort of working -[3934.22 --> 3935.26] its way backwards -[3935.26 --> 3936.82] through history -[3936.82 --> 3937.58] right? -[3937.66 --> 3938.32] To see -[3938.32 --> 3939.18] that the water -[3939.18 --> 3940.10] Jesus is talking -[3940.10 --> 3941.14] about in John 4 -[3941.14 --> 3942.56] is this spring -[3942.56 --> 3943.90] of living water -[3943.90 --> 3944.94] that runs -[3944.94 --> 3945.72] through the city. -[3946.68 --> 3947.24] Right? -[3947.28 --> 3948.16] In John 4 -[3948.16 --> 3949.48] and in Revelation 22 -[3949.48 --> 3950.06] right? -[3950.12 --> 3951.10] This living water -[3951.10 --> 3952.42] is about the gift -[3952.42 --> 3953.42] of restored -[3953.42 --> 3954.26] relationship -[3954.26 --> 3955.22] to God -[3955.22 --> 3955.94] is about the gift -[3955.94 --> 3956.74] of restored -[3956.74 --> 3957.78] shalom. -[3958.74 --> 3958.84] Right? -[3958.86 --> 3959.50] That's what the woman -[3959.50 --> 3960.08] at the well -[3960.08 --> 3961.18] thirsted for -[3961.18 --> 3962.78] this sense of wholeness -[3962.78 --> 3963.46] and fullness -[3963.46 --> 3964.68] and completeness -[3964.68 --> 3965.22] that's what you -[3965.22 --> 3965.70] and I -[3965.70 --> 3966.70] are constantly -[3966.70 --> 3967.82] thirsting for -[3967.82 --> 3968.94] and looking for -[3968.94 --> 3969.38] that's what we -[3969.38 --> 3970.18] are longing for -[3970.18 --> 3970.62] that's what we -[3970.62 --> 3971.92] are trying to find -[3971.92 --> 3973.50] in comfort culture -[3973.50 --> 3974.34] or in any other -[3974.34 --> 3974.92] substitute -[3974.92 --> 3975.90] for shalom -[3975.90 --> 3977.22] this is what -[3977.22 --> 3978.46] and whom -[3978.46 --> 3979.50] you are -[3979.50 --> 3980.42] parched -[3980.42 --> 3981.26] without. -[3983.82 --> 3984.88] John continues -[3984.88 --> 3985.48] he goes on -[3985.48 --> 3985.72] he says -[3985.72 --> 3986.48] on each side -[3986.48 --> 3987.02] of the river -[3987.02 --> 3988.20] stood the tree -[3988.20 --> 3988.80] of life -[3988.80 --> 3989.00] now -[3989.00 --> 3990.46] I don't know -[3990.46 --> 3991.54] how that is possible -[3991.54 --> 3992.06] right? -[3992.16 --> 3992.66] That there's -[3992.66 --> 3993.56] one river -[3993.56 --> 3994.08] and on each -[3994.08 --> 3994.48] side of it -[3994.48 --> 3994.94] there's one -[3994.94 --> 3995.30] tree -[3995.30 --> 3996.50] now -[3996.50 --> 3997.08] I mean -[3997.08 --> 3997.32] you might -[3997.32 --> 3997.90] picture some -[3997.90 --> 3998.70] fantastic root -[3998.70 --> 3999.04] structure -[3999.04 --> 3999.54] that's fine -[3999.54 --> 4000.72] the point is -[4000.72 --> 4001.24] not that it -[4001.24 --> 4001.66] makes sense -[4001.66 --> 4002.18] but that it is -[4002.18 --> 4002.78] this compelling -[4002.78 --> 4003.86] image of this -[4003.86 --> 4004.62] massive tree -[4004.62 --> 4005.18] and that the -[4005.18 --> 4006.18] water is -[4006.18 --> 4007.08] flowing out -[4007.08 --> 4007.82] and through -[4007.82 --> 4008.52] and to -[4008.52 --> 4009.32] you -[4009.32 --> 4010.80] right? -[4010.86 --> 4011.50] And on this -[4011.50 --> 4012.06] tree -[4012.06 --> 4013.74] on each side -[4013.74 --> 4014.06] of the river -[4014.06 --> 4014.60] stood the tree -[4014.60 --> 4015.04] of life -[4015.04 --> 4015.84] bearing twelve -[4015.84 --> 4016.82] crops of fruit -[4016.82 --> 4017.74] yielding its -[4017.74 --> 4018.80] fruit every month -[4018.80 --> 4019.48] and the leaves -[4019.48 --> 4019.98] of the tree -[4019.98 --> 4020.58] are for the -[4020.58 --> 4020.94] healing -[4020.94 --> 4022.20] of nations -[4022.20 --> 4023.80] and again -[4023.80 --> 4024.86] right? -[4024.98 --> 4025.52] If you are -[4025.52 --> 4026.44] holding Genesis -[4026.44 --> 4027.22] one and two -[4027.22 --> 4028.08] in your mind -[4028.08 --> 4028.66] as we are -[4028.66 --> 4029.14] reading this -[4029.14 --> 4029.42] story -[4029.42 --> 4030.00] we are taken -[4030.00 --> 4031.26] back to the -[4031.26 --> 4031.60] garden -[4031.60 --> 4032.76] and in the -[4032.76 --> 4033.46] garden of Eden -[4033.46 --> 4033.88] right? -[4033.98 --> 4034.20] You remember -[4034.20 --> 4034.64] the story -[4034.64 --> 4035.18] there are -[4035.18 --> 4035.84] how many -[4035.84 --> 4036.22] trees? -[4036.90 --> 4037.40] Two -[4037.40 --> 4038.62] right? -[4038.66 --> 4039.06] The tree -[4039.06 --> 4039.62] of the knowledge -[4039.62 --> 4040.44] of good and evil -[4040.44 --> 4041.00] that's what -[4041.00 --> 4041.88] Adam and Eve -[4041.88 --> 4042.64] ate -[4042.64 --> 4044.02] and the fruit -[4044.02 --> 4044.74] from which -[4044.74 --> 4045.08] was the -[4045.08 --> 4045.50] temptation -[4045.50 --> 4046.34] by the serpent -[4046.34 --> 4047.20] and there -[4047.20 --> 4048.02] is the tree -[4048.02 --> 4049.12] of life -[4049.12 --> 4049.78] that stood -[4049.78 --> 4050.76] in the garden -[4050.76 --> 4051.74] and the tree -[4051.74 --> 4052.18] of life -[4052.18 --> 4052.70] being there -[4052.70 --> 4053.34] is the reason -[4053.34 --> 4053.78] that God -[4053.78 --> 4054.60] had to expel -[4054.60 --> 4055.14] them after -[4055.14 --> 4055.64] eating from -[4055.64 --> 4056.02] the tree -[4056.02 --> 4056.48] of knowledge -[4056.48 --> 4057.14] of good and evil -[4057.14 --> 4057.58] so that they -[4057.58 --> 4058.30] might not also -[4058.30 --> 4058.90] eat of the tree -[4058.90 --> 4059.26] of life -[4059.26 --> 4060.26] and live forever -[4060.26 --> 4060.90] in their sin -[4060.90 --> 4062.52] but now -[4062.52 --> 4064.18] in Revelation 22 -[4064.18 --> 4066.10] there's one tree -[4066.10 --> 4068.96] you might ask -[4068.96 --> 4069.54] where's the other -[4069.54 --> 4069.86] tree? -[4071.14 --> 4072.00] That tree -[4072.00 --> 4073.30] has been felled -[4073.30 --> 4075.56] that tree -[4075.56 --> 4076.20] has been chopped -[4076.20 --> 4076.62] down -[4076.62 --> 4077.52] that tree -[4077.52 --> 4078.16] has been shaped -[4078.16 --> 4079.02] into a cross -[4079.02 --> 4079.80] and on it -[4079.80 --> 4080.20] hung -[4080.20 --> 4081.14] Jesus -[4081.14 --> 4083.36] Jesus -[4083.36 --> 4084.36] who lived -[4084.36 --> 4084.82] the life -[4084.82 --> 4085.34] that we were -[4085.34 --> 4086.28] supposed to live -[4086.28 --> 4086.94] giving us -[4086.94 --> 4088.00] his good -[4088.00 --> 4089.06] and Jesus -[4089.06 --> 4089.62] who died -[4089.62 --> 4090.12] the death -[4090.12 --> 4091.14] that we deserved -[4091.14 --> 4092.34] and died -[4092.34 --> 4092.76] the death -[4092.76 --> 4093.46] that was punishment -[4093.46 --> 4094.24] for us -[4094.24 --> 4095.54] taking on him -[4095.54 --> 4096.82] our evil -[4096.82 --> 4097.50] right? -[4097.60 --> 4098.58] Good and evil -[4098.58 --> 4099.52] on this tree -[4099.52 --> 4100.26] cut down -[4100.26 --> 4101.02] into the shape -[4101.02 --> 4102.18] of a Roman cross -[4102.18 --> 4102.84] so that now -[4102.84 --> 4103.96] we might be able -[4103.96 --> 4105.08] to eat of the tree -[4105.08 --> 4105.74] of life -[4105.74 --> 4106.90] in this new -[4106.90 --> 4107.50] garden -[4107.50 --> 4108.10] in the midst -[4108.10 --> 4108.78] of a city -[4108.78 --> 4109.82] restored -[4109.82 --> 4111.22] to God -[4111.22 --> 4115.06] that's our -[4115.06 --> 4115.94] compelling vision -[4115.94 --> 4116.60] of Shalom -[4116.60 --> 4118.24] and it's now -[4118.24 --> 4119.30] these two trees -[4119.30 --> 4119.70] together -[4119.70 --> 4120.48] the one that was -[4120.48 --> 4121.08] felled -[4121.08 --> 4122.14] and on which -[4122.14 --> 4123.06] Jesus died -[4123.06 --> 4123.78] and the one -[4123.78 --> 4124.70] in that future -[4124.70 --> 4125.54] garden -[4125.54 --> 4126.38] restored -[4126.38 --> 4127.30] that bring -[4127.30 --> 4128.08] peace -[4128.08 --> 4129.46] right? -[4129.54 --> 4130.54] Eating of the first -[4130.54 --> 4131.28] tree broke -[4131.28 --> 4131.84] Shalom -[4131.84 --> 4132.88] Jesus dying -[4132.88 --> 4133.96] on that tree -[4133.96 --> 4134.74] made restoration -[4134.74 --> 4135.68] possible -[4135.68 --> 4136.42] and the second -[4136.42 --> 4136.82] tree -[4136.82 --> 4138.00] is a picture -[4138.00 --> 4139.04] of Shalom -[4139.04 --> 4140.14] restored -[4140.14 --> 4141.38] the healing -[4141.38 --> 4142.76] of the nations -[4142.76 --> 4145.32] for to us -[4145.32 --> 4146.02] a child -[4146.02 --> 4146.76] is born -[4146.76 --> 4147.68] to us -[4147.68 --> 4148.26] a son -[4148.26 --> 4148.92] is given -[4148.92 --> 4149.70] and the government -[4149.70 --> 4150.96] will be on his -[4150.96 --> 4151.74] shoulders -[4151.74 --> 4152.44] the healing -[4152.44 --> 4153.18] of the nations -[4153.18 --> 4154.62] and he will be called -[4154.62 --> 4155.86] wonderful counselor -[4155.86 --> 4156.94] mighty God -[4156.94 --> 4158.38] everlasting father -[4158.38 --> 4159.80] prince -[4159.80 --> 4162.08] of Shalom -[4162.08 --> 4165.42] no longer -[4165.42 --> 4166.22] will there be -[4166.22 --> 4166.70] any -[4166.70 --> 4167.74] curse -[4167.74 --> 4169.46] there will be -[4169.46 --> 4169.84] Shalom -[4169.84 --> 4171.46] what was broken -[4171.46 --> 4172.56] is made -[4172.56 --> 4173.00] whole -[4173.00 --> 4174.10] what was destroyed -[4174.10 --> 4175.30] is restored -[4175.30 --> 4176.54] what was rejected -[4176.54 --> 4178.26] is reconciled -[4178.26 --> 4179.40] what was lost -[4179.40 --> 4180.58] is found -[4180.58 --> 4181.28] the curse -[4181.28 --> 4181.92] has ended -[4181.92 --> 4183.04] and the serpent's -[4183.04 --> 4183.36] head -[4183.36 --> 4184.40] has been -[4184.40 --> 4185.20] crushed -[4185.20 --> 4186.98] the throne -[4186.98 --> 4187.58] of God -[4187.58 --> 4188.30] and of the Lamb -[4188.30 --> 4188.92] will be -[4188.92 --> 4190.06] in that city -[4190.06 --> 4191.00] that is the new -[4191.00 --> 4191.58] Jerusalem -[4191.58 --> 4192.24] the city -[4192.24 --> 4193.10] come down -[4193.10 --> 4194.02] heaven come down -[4194.02 --> 4194.68] so that heaven -[4194.68 --> 4195.24] and earth -[4195.24 --> 4196.56] now are one -[4196.56 --> 4197.60] and the same -[4197.60 --> 4199.04] this is the end -[4199.04 --> 4199.74] of history -[4199.74 --> 4201.18] this is the future -[4201.18 --> 4202.12] that we are waiting -[4202.12 --> 4202.42] for -[4202.42 --> 4203.24] this is the -[4203.24 --> 4203.96] Shalom -[4203.96 --> 4204.88] that our hearts -[4204.88 --> 4205.54] are created -[4205.54 --> 4206.12] to live -[4206.12 --> 4207.00] in the midst -[4207.00 --> 4207.38] of -[4207.38 --> 4209.42] living in the -[4209.42 --> 4210.42] presence of God -[4210.42 --> 4211.38] right -[4211.38 --> 4212.52] Corum Deo -[4212.52 --> 4213.26] is the Latin -[4213.26 --> 4213.84] phrase there -[4213.84 --> 4215.10] before his -[4215.10 --> 4215.96] face -[4215.96 --> 4217.58] and his -[4217.58 --> 4218.20] servants -[4218.20 --> 4220.30] will serve him -[4220.30 --> 4223.60] now maybe that -[4223.60 --> 4224.40] sounds like a -[4224.40 --> 4224.92] tautology -[4224.92 --> 4225.80] because servants -[4225.80 --> 4226.36] serve -[4226.36 --> 4227.24] that's what they -[4227.24 --> 4227.58] do -[4227.58 --> 4228.26] right -[4228.26 --> 4228.92] they're doing -[4228.92 --> 4229.98] is what they -[4229.98 --> 4230.66] are defined -[4230.66 --> 4231.32] as -[4231.32 --> 4232.08] what they're -[4232.08 --> 4233.26] made to do -[4233.26 --> 4233.60] right -[4233.60 --> 4234.04] there's a -[4234.04 --> 4234.62] fulfilling -[4234.62 --> 4235.82] of purpose -[4235.82 --> 4237.02] and identity -[4237.02 --> 4238.48] that is found -[4238.48 --> 4239.70] only in this -[4239.70 --> 4240.54] picture of -[4240.54 --> 4241.00] Shalom -[4241.00 --> 4241.92] restored -[4241.92 --> 4243.22] restored -[4243.22 --> 4243.88] to God -[4243.88 --> 4244.58] in the -[4244.58 --> 4246.26] almost home -[4246.26 --> 4246.78] that we have -[4246.78 --> 4247.14] been singing -[4247.14 --> 4247.76] about this -[4247.76 --> 4248.26] Advent and -[4248.26 --> 4248.56] Christmas -[4248.56 --> 4251.60] but if you -[4251.60 --> 4252.10] are wondering -[4252.10 --> 4253.08] what that -[4253.08 --> 4254.08] serving might -[4254.08 --> 4254.96] look like -[4254.96 --> 4256.20] hear this -[4256.20 --> 4257.88] the word -[4257.88 --> 4258.98] that John -[4258.98 --> 4259.56] uses -[4259.56 --> 4260.26] right -[4260.26 --> 4260.76] when he says -[4260.76 --> 4261.42] that servants -[4261.42 --> 4262.62] will serve -[4262.62 --> 4262.94] him -[4262.94 --> 4263.68] is a word -[4263.68 --> 4264.20] that is -[4264.20 --> 4264.88] ordinarily -[4264.88 --> 4265.60] translated -[4265.60 --> 4267.24] as worship -[4267.24 --> 4270.16] it can -[4270.16 --> 4270.44] mean -[4270.44 --> 4270.96] serve -[4270.96 --> 4272.60] but only -[4272.60 --> 4273.10] ever -[4273.10 --> 4273.50] is it -[4273.50 --> 4273.76] used -[4273.76 --> 4274.04] in the -[4274.04 --> 4274.32] Bible -[4274.32 --> 4274.68] in the -[4274.68 --> 4275.18] context -[4275.18 --> 4275.60] of -[4275.60 --> 4276.26] worship -[4276.26 --> 4277.02] of serving -[4277.02 --> 4277.48] in the -[4277.48 --> 4277.86] temple -[4277.86 --> 4278.56] or of -[4278.56 --> 4278.92] serving -[4278.92 --> 4279.36] God -[4279.36 --> 4279.74] as you -[4279.74 --> 4280.48] worship -[4280.48 --> 4280.82] him -[4280.82 --> 4281.46] right -[4281.46 --> 4281.64] and -[4281.64 --> 4282.26] Jesus -[4282.26 --> 4283.02] summarizes -[4283.02 --> 4283.46] the law -[4283.46 --> 4283.92] he says -[4283.92 --> 4284.28] worship -[4284.28 --> 4284.64] the Lord -[4284.64 --> 4285.12] your God -[4285.12 --> 4285.50] and -[4285.50 --> 4287.38] serve -[4287.38 --> 4287.92] him -[4287.92 --> 4288.80] only -[4288.80 --> 4289.76] right -[4289.76 --> 4289.96] that's -[4289.96 --> 4290.44] the same -[4290.44 --> 4291.26] word -[4291.26 --> 4292.80] in Revelation -[4292.80 --> 4293.92] 7 15 -[4293.92 --> 4295.50] John sees -[4295.50 --> 4295.90] a great -[4295.90 --> 4296.40] multitude -[4296.40 --> 4297.16] in white -[4297.16 --> 4297.56] robes -[4297.56 --> 4297.78] who are -[4297.78 --> 4297.98] there -[4297.98 --> 4298.54] worshiping -[4298.54 --> 4298.80] God -[4298.80 --> 4299.06] and he -[4299.06 --> 4299.36] writes -[4299.36 --> 4300.00] therefore -[4300.00 --> 4300.64] they are -[4300.64 --> 4301.28] before the -[4301.28 --> 4301.58] throne -[4301.58 --> 4302.14] of God -[4302.14 --> 4303.14] and serve -[4303.14 --> 4304.08] him day -[4304.08 --> 4304.82] and night -[4304.82 --> 4305.58] in his -[4305.58 --> 4305.92] temple -[4305.92 --> 4306.50] right -[4306.50 --> 4307.10] there is a -[4307.10 --> 4307.48] sense -[4307.48 --> 4308.12] of the -[4308.12 --> 4309.36] perpetuity -[4309.36 --> 4310.36] of their -[4310.36 --> 4311.02] worship -[4311.02 --> 4311.26] the -[4311.26 --> 4312.54] endlessness -[4312.54 --> 4313.38] of their -[4313.38 --> 4313.80] worship -[4313.80 --> 4314.26] and -[4314.26 --> 4314.72] right -[4314.72 --> 4315.20] it is a -[4315.20 --> 4315.60] worship -[4315.60 --> 4316.82] that works -[4316.82 --> 4318.16] it is a -[4318.16 --> 4318.50] singing -[4318.50 --> 4319.00] by -[4319.00 --> 4319.94] service -[4319.94 --> 4321.74] and until -[4321.74 --> 4322.28] the day -[4322.28 --> 4322.64] that we -[4322.64 --> 4323.50] are actually -[4323.50 --> 4324.20] home -[4324.20 --> 4325.02] restored -[4325.02 --> 4325.84] in relationship -[4325.84 --> 4326.32] to God -[4326.32 --> 4326.78] in this -[4326.78 --> 4327.46] new city -[4327.46 --> 4327.94] with this -[4327.94 --> 4328.28] beautiful -[4328.28 --> 4328.64] garden -[4328.64 --> 4329.44] through it -[4329.44 --> 4330.32] until that -[4330.32 --> 4330.66] day -[4330.66 --> 4331.42] we sing -[4331.42 --> 4331.98] almost -[4331.98 --> 4332.36] home -[4332.36 --> 4333.78] right -[4333.78 --> 4334.04] and it -[4334.04 --> 4334.84] is now -[4334.84 --> 4335.76] in our -[4335.76 --> 4336.44] worship -[4336.44 --> 4337.40] that we -[4337.40 --> 4338.24] anticipate -[4338.24 --> 4339.10] shalom -[4339.10 --> 4339.94] restored -[4339.94 --> 4342.00] but what -[4342.00 --> 4343.08] we experience -[4343.08 --> 4343.92] now in -[4343.92 --> 4344.94] our hearts -[4344.94 --> 4346.12] by worshiping -[4346.12 --> 4346.38] God -[4346.38 --> 4346.74] we will -[4346.74 --> 4347.44] experience -[4347.44 --> 4348.26] then in -[4348.26 --> 4349.26] every aspect -[4349.26 --> 4349.76] of who -[4349.76 --> 4350.28] we are -[4350.28 --> 4351.50] and what -[4351.50 --> 4351.92] we do -[4351.92 --> 4354.02] and so -[4354.02 --> 4355.00] in just a -[4355.00 --> 4355.26] moment -[4355.26 --> 4355.72] we are going -[4355.72 --> 4356.12] to sing -[4356.12 --> 4356.52] together -[4356.52 --> 4357.00] by the -[4357.00 --> 4357.38] sea of -[4357.38 --> 4357.64] crystal -[4357.64 --> 4357.90] and I'm -[4357.90 --> 4358.00] going to -[4358.00 --> 4358.40] invite the -[4358.40 --> 4358.86] worship team -[4358.86 --> 4359.32] to come up -[4359.32 --> 4359.64] at this -[4359.64 --> 4359.88] point -[4359.88 --> 4360.30] so that we -[4360.30 --> 4361.04] can jump -[4361.04 --> 4361.54] right into -[4361.54 --> 4362.04] that as -[4362.04 --> 4362.36] our -[4362.36 --> 4363.14] culminating -[4363.14 --> 4364.02] prayer -[4364.02 --> 4365.02] together -[4365.02 --> 4367.94] worship -[4367.94 --> 4369.08] now -[4369.08 --> 4370.32] in this -[4370.32 --> 4370.80] life -[4370.80 --> 4372.10] in the -[4372.10 --> 4372.50] midst of -[4372.50 --> 4372.94] chaos -[4372.94 --> 4373.84] in the -[4373.84 --> 4374.18] midst of -[4374.18 --> 4374.64] disorder -[4374.64 --> 4375.02] in the -[4375.02 --> 4375.50] midst of -[4375.50 --> 4376.10] struggle -[4376.10 --> 4376.72] in the -[4376.72 --> 4377.06] midst of -[4377.06 --> 4377.60] the hardships -[4377.60 --> 4378.10] that we -[4378.10 --> 4378.40] face -[4378.40 --> 4378.82] and all -[4378.82 --> 4379.22] the rest -[4379.22 --> 4379.74] whatever it -[4379.74 --> 4380.12] may be -[4380.12 --> 4380.84] worship -[4380.84 --> 4382.08] now is a -[4382.08 --> 4382.54] training -[4382.54 --> 4383.74] from the -[4383.74 --> 4384.20] teacher -[4384.20 --> 4385.24] that will -[4385.24 --> 4386.34] allow us -[4386.34 --> 4387.44] and make -[4387.44 --> 4388.16] us able -[4388.16 --> 4388.86] to -[4388.86 --> 4389.58] persevere -[4389.58 --> 4392.16] the rhythms -[4392.16 --> 4393.02] and the -[4393.02 --> 4393.78] habits of -[4393.78 --> 4394.38] worshiping -[4394.38 --> 4394.88] together -[4394.88 --> 4395.48] now -[4395.48 --> 4396.28] of serving -[4396.28 --> 4396.92] together -[4396.92 --> 4398.04] train -[4398.04 --> 4398.96] our hearts -[4398.96 --> 4400.12] and are -[4400.12 --> 4400.80] the means -[4400.80 --> 4401.52] by which -[4401.52 --> 4402.02] Jesus -[4402.02 --> 4402.98] preserves -[4402.98 --> 4403.42] us -[4403.42 --> 4404.18] to the -[4404.18 --> 4404.48] end -[4404.48 --> 4406.82] and so -[4406.82 --> 4409.16] when you -[4409.16 --> 4409.62] cannot -[4409.62 --> 4410.24] see -[4410.24 --> 4411.44] for the -[4411.44 --> 4411.80] darkness -[4411.80 --> 4412.40] that -[4412.40 --> 4412.94] surrounds -[4412.94 --> 4416.02] we sing -[4416.02 --> 4417.20] and proclaim -[4417.20 --> 4418.38] the light -[4418.38 --> 4419.44] who is -[4419.44 --> 4419.90] God -[4419.90 --> 4421.04] the light -[4421.04 --> 4421.94] of the -[4421.94 --> 4422.22] world -[4422.22 --> 4423.32] open your -[4423.32 --> 4423.76] eyes -[4423.76 --> 4424.54] to see -[4424.54 --> 4425.06] the light -[4425.06 --> 4426.58] when in -[4426.58 --> 4427.68] your hearts -[4427.68 --> 4428.28] all you -[4428.28 --> 4428.92] hear is -[4428.92 --> 4429.52] the droning -[4429.52 --> 4430.26] voice of -[4430.26 --> 4430.68] shame -[4430.68 --> 4431.18] that over -[4431.18 --> 4431.62] and over -[4431.62 --> 4432.42] condemns you -[4432.42 --> 4432.88] and says -[4432.88 --> 4433.22] you are -[4433.22 --> 4433.76] not worthy -[4433.76 --> 4434.44] and you -[4434.44 --> 4434.94] are not -[4434.94 --> 4435.52] lovable -[4435.52 --> 4436.48] open your -[4436.48 --> 4437.14] ears to -[4437.14 --> 4437.80] the voice -[4437.80 --> 4438.88] of Jesus -[4438.88 --> 4439.80] who invites -[4439.80 --> 4440.38] you to -[4440.38 --> 4441.04] himself -[4441.04 --> 4441.72] and to -[4441.72 --> 4442.52] his presence -[4442.52 --> 4443.22] and to -[4443.22 --> 4444.34] whom alone -[4444.34 --> 4444.90] we can -[4444.90 --> 4446.02] come for -[4446.02 --> 4446.76] shalom -[4446.76 --> 4448.40] if you -[4448.40 --> 4449.02] have exchanged -[4449.02 --> 4449.56] the truth -[4449.56 --> 4450.08] of God -[4450.08 --> 4450.40] for the -[4450.40 --> 4450.96] idols of -[4450.96 --> 4451.36] comfort -[4451.36 --> 4452.22] or security -[4452.22 --> 4452.82] stop -[4452.82 --> 4453.40] settling -[4453.40 --> 4453.96] for something -[4453.96 --> 4454.68] less than -[4454.68 --> 4455.48] God's -[4455.48 --> 4456.10] shalom -[4456.10 --> 4457.94] God's -[4457.94 --> 4458.62] shalom -[4458.62 --> 4459.72] is the -[4459.72 --> 4460.30] peace -[4460.30 --> 4461.22] I hope -[4461.22 --> 4462.02] you have -[4462.02 --> 4462.78] this -[4462.78 --> 4463.68] Christmas -[4463.68 --> 4465.88] and as -[4465.88 --> 4466.20] we look -[4466.20 --> 4466.56] forward -[4466.56 --> 4467.16] to that -[4467.16 --> 4467.58] sea -[4467.58 --> 4468.00] of -[4468.00 --> 4468.66] crystal -[4468.66 --> 4469.68] I hope -[4469.68 --> 4470.42] that God's -[4470.42 --> 4470.76] shalom -[4470.76 --> 4471.62] works its -[4471.62 --> 4472.54] way backwards -[4472.54 --> 4474.66] through history -[4474.66 --> 4475.70] to your -[4475.70 --> 4476.10] heart -[4476.10 --> 4477.04] right -[4477.04 --> 4478.28] now -[4478.28 --> 4479.42] amen -[4479.42 --> 4481.06] let's -[4481.06 --> 4481.40] stand -[4481.40 --> 4482.38] and sing -[4482.38 --> 4483.38] this song -[4483.38 --> 4504.50] by the sea -[4504.50 --> 4506.72] of crystal -[4506.72 --> 4509.40] saints in glory -[4509.40 --> 4509.98] amen -[4510.02 --> 4513.74] to the pure -[4513.74 --> 4515.66] 式 -[4515.66 --> 4516.12] and -[4516.12 --> 4517.04] кас -[4517.04 --> 4517.88] of -[4517.88 --> 4518.50] takich -[4518.50 --> 4520.98] sobre -[4520.98 --> 4523.58] nic -[4523.58 --> 4528.24] czyli -[4528.24 --> 4537.52] en -[4537.52 --> 4542.08] With the love of God -[4542.08 --> 4547.00] The tribulations -[4547.00 --> 4552.08] Seeds and demons have -[4552.08 --> 4557.04] They have been translated -[4557.04 --> 4561.08] At the Lord's command -[4561.08 --> 4567.34] In their hands they're holding -[4567.34 --> 4571.18] Comes a victory -[4571.18 --> 4577.16] But the children call -[4577.16 --> 4582.08] Shams triumphantly -[4582.08 --> 4587.18] To the Lord's command -[4587.18 --> 4592.36] Raving on the floor -[4592.36 --> 4597.18] And the wounded chorus -[4597.18 --> 4602.64] Be the rain of the Lord -[4602.64 --> 4607.08] Common from salvation -[4607.08 --> 4612.48] In their wondrous days -[4612.48 --> 4615.64] Love shall not end -[4615.64 --> 4616.96] Only -[4616.96 --> 4619.02] Only -[4619.02 --> 4622.48] The pain of the Lord -[4622.48 --> 4640.20] As you go this week -[4640.20 --> 4642.10] Go both in anticipation -[4642.10 --> 4643.84] Of the shalom -[4643.84 --> 4646.40] That God has on offer for us -[4646.40 --> 4647.58] At the end of history -[4647.58 --> 4649.56] But also with that shalom -[4649.56 --> 4651.64] Now already present -[4651.64 --> 4653.40] In your hearts and minds -[4653.40 --> 4656.26] As you are touched by God -[4656.26 --> 4657.56] In the Holy Spirit -[4657.56 --> 4658.94] Know that God himself -[4658.94 --> 4660.38] Goes with you -[4660.38 --> 4662.30] Go also with an invitation -[4662.30 --> 4663.66] To join us this evening -[4663.66 --> 4665.38] At 6pm -[4665.38 --> 4667.80] For the choir nights -[4667.80 --> 4668.98] Invite your friends -[4668.98 --> 4670.62] Invite your family -[4670.62 --> 4672.18] Drive safely -[4672.18 --> 4673.82] Just a quick reminder -[4673.82 --> 4674.70] If you are singing -[4674.70 --> 4675.46] In that choir -[4675.46 --> 4676.34] You are scheduled -[4676.34 --> 4678.16] To be here at 4.30 -[4678.16 --> 4679.50] Yeah? -[4680.12 --> 4680.76] 4.15 -[4680.76 --> 4682.24] So call time's 4.30 -[4682.24 --> 4682.94] Be here early -[4682.94 --> 4685.72] Good save -[4685.72 --> 4686.04] Yeah -[4686.04 --> 4689.62] Also go with the invitation -[4689.62 --> 4691.38] Then for fellowship -[4692.18 --> 4693.88] And coffee afterwards -[4693.88 --> 4695.26] May you receive -[4695.26 --> 4695.88] The blessing -[4695.88 --> 4696.96] Of God -[4696.96 --> 4702.86] May God go before you -[4702.86 --> 4704.58] To guide you -[4704.58 --> 4707.14] May God go behind you -[4707.14 --> 4708.06] To protect you -[4708.06 --> 4710.36] May God go beneath you -[4710.36 --> 4711.34] To support you -[4711.34 --> 4713.54] May God go beside you -[4713.54 --> 4714.70] To befriend you -[4714.70 --> 4716.44] Do not be afraid -[4716.44 --> 4717.70] Let the blessing of God -[4717.70 --> 4718.70] Come upon you today -[4718.70 --> 4720.30] Do not be afraid -[4720.30 --> 4723.40] But go in his shalom -[4723.40 --> 4726.22] To love and serve the Lord -[4726.22 --> 4727.88] Amen -[4727.88 --> 4728.82] Father -[4728.82 --> 4732.70] Amen -[4732.70 --> 4744.50] Him -[4744.50 --> 4746.98] Amen -[4746.98 --> 4753.12] poor -[4753.12 --> 4783.10] Thank you. -[4783.12 --> 4794.10] Gloria in excelsis Deo. -[4794.10 --> 4810.36] Gloria in excelsis Deo. -[4810.36 --> 4815.36] Shepherds, why this jubilee? -[4816.74 --> 4820.36] Why your joyous strength prolong? -[4821.68 --> 4825.36] Why the glads of tidings be? -[4826.54 --> 4830.78] Which inspire your heavenly song? -[4830.78 --> 4845.10] Gloria in excelsis Deo. -[4845.10 --> 4861.10] Gloria in excelsis Deo. -[4861.10 --> 4867.06] Come to Bethlehem and sing. -[4867.62 --> 4871.98] Him whose birth the angels sing. -[4872.54 --> 4876.82] Come adore on bended knee. -[4877.36 --> 4881.68] Christ the Lord, the newborn King. -[4881.68 --> 4895.68] Gloria in excelsis Deo. -[4895.68 --> 4911.68] Gloria in excelsis Deo. -[4911.68 --> 4916.68] Our love is a part of the world. -[4919.48 --> 4923.30] The force that hosts you sing. -[4923.30 --> 4925.62] Don't increase. -[4925.62 --> 4926.02] You nak的anker. -[4926.06 --> 4927.06] To be called. -[4927.06 --> 4927.80] You State of the Youngña. -[4928.06 --> 4929.26] We're 섞ent. -[4929.44 --> 4929.68] Take care. -[4929.68 --> 4930.56] You have to take care. -[4930.56 --> 4960.54] Thank you. -[4960.56 --> 4990.54] Thank you. -[4990.56 --> 5020.54] Thank you. -[5020.56 --> 5022.56] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - December 19, 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - December 19, 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 4d2cb6d256859044a1e85d0d2a7e6f70c2a1478a..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - December 19, 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,74 +0,0 @@ -• Christ's birth and reign -• The King of kings and Lord -• Adoration and worship -• Jesus as the Savior of humanity -• Praise and glory to God -• Christ as the wonderful counselor, everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, and Emmanuel -• The story of amazing love and the light of the world given for us -• Upcoming directory update for church members -• Need for updated photos of families and individuals in the directory -• Instructions for submitting updated information and photos -• Announcement about a choir performance and worship service on Christmas Day -• Invitation to participate in the Christmas Day worship service, either in person or via live stream -• Candle lighting ceremony for Advent -• Prayer for peace and the coming of Jesus Christ -• The speaker mentions a Christmas carol "O Holy Night" being sung -• Discussion of a church's response to a local flood disaster, including collecting donations and organizing relief efforts with another church -• Announcement of special offerings for different causes on specific Sundays in December: Abbotsford flood response, Langley Night Shift Ministry, and the church budget -• Discussion of a Christmas carol -• Morning greetings and attempts to wake up guests -• Discussion about a friend's (Hank) Christmas sweater -• Recall of previous discussion on gifts and activities that make people nervous -• Announcement of a gift for Hank, a pair of roller skates from his father -• Preparing a child named Hank to go down a ramp -• Discussing the Christmas story of the wise men and gifts in children's worship time -• Praying with the group before heading off to children's worship time -• Conducting the children's blessing and saying goodbye to Hank -• Reflecting on the activity as an opportunity for improvement in future children's worship times -• Request for budget contributions -• Seasonal reflections and difficulties faced by some during Christmas time (loss of loved ones, broken relationships, travel restrictions) -• Prayer concerns within the church community (Miriam DeWinter's mom's eye surgery, Abbotsford flood victims) -• Advent season and gratitude for Jesus' gift of hope, love, forgiveness, and peace -• Concerns about eroding Christianity in the world and secularization -• Requests for strength, determination, and light in darkness -• Prayers for a restorative Christmas season for those facing challenges and difficulties -• Thanking volunteers for their hard work and dedication -• Praying for guidance, wisdom, and blessings on the church leadership and community -• Beginning a new segment in the Advent and Christmas teaching series: "Unhallmark Christmas" -• Reading from Luke 2, focusing on the first seven verses -• Discussing the importance of separating personal experiences and traditions from historical accuracy -• Exploring the idea that feelings or experiences do not necessarily determine the truth or validity of something -• Challenging the notion that faith and Christianity should be based solely on emotional experience or personal feelings -• The importance of evaluating whether one's faith and practices are based on experience or rooted in history -• Critique of overly sentimental or "Hallmarked" approaches to Christmas and Christianity -• Advent as a season of waiting and anticipation, mirroring Holy Saturday between Good Friday and Easter Sunday -• The significance of understanding the gospel story of Jesus as historically grounded -• Luke's approach to writing his account of the events in the New Testament, emphasizing historical accuracy and eyewitness testimony -• Luke's work is based on careful investigation and interviewing eyewitnesses -• Luke was a trained professional with high standards for accuracy and credibility -• The events described in the Bible are rooted in historical fact, including the Roman census and rule of Caesar Augustus and Quirinius -• The narrative of Jesus' birth has been misinterpreted through additions of imagination and speculation -• A more accurate interpretation of Luke 2 emphasizes the straightforward and simple nature of the story as told in the original text -• The story of Jesus' birth in a stable is not necessarily an inn or a public accommodation house -• The word "katalumati" used by Luke means guest room, and its only other use is in the context of the Passover celebration -• It's likely that the place where Jesus was born was a guest room or upper room attached to the main living area of a house in Bethlehem -• Archaeological evidence supports the idea that family homes in ancient Israel often had a second-story room for guests -• The narrative has been embellished over time with details not present in the original text. -• The importance of family history and lineage in ancient Jewish culture -• Joseph's journey to Bethlehem and his registration with Mary -• The concept that Jesus was likely born at home surrounded by community women rather than in an inn or stable -• The possibility that the animals mentioned were part of the household, not visitors -• The design of traditional village homes in Palestine, showing mangers built into the main house for animal care -• The theory that Mary and Joseph would have stayed with family and a community of women in the main house rather than an inn or guest room. -• The Gospel of Thomas is not written by a Jewish Christian and shows no familiarity with Palestinian geography or Jewish traditions -• The story of Jesus' birth in the Gospel of James has significant differences from the traditional account, including Mary giving birth to Jesus outside the city of Bethlehem before Joseph returns -• The Church of the Nativity was built on the site identified by Justin Martyr as Jesus' birthplace and still exists today -• The nativity scene was popularized by Saint Francis of Assisi in the 12th century -• The historical account of Jesus' birth is likely ordinary, but it's the extraordinary nature of Jesus that makes His story miraculous -• The gospel being true changes everything, including Christmas and our understanding of ourselves. -• Prayers and hymns to God -• Planting the seed of hope within oneself -• Seeking guidance and knowledge from God -• Reflections on the nature of peace and its relationship with God -• Encouragement and blessings for those going out into the world -• Worship and adoration of Christ as Lord of heaven and earth \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - December 19, 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - December 19, 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index be56bd0e5861a2fd33a910d92d6f0b4d3c2d61d9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - December 19, 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,987 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 3.74] I would do my part -[3.74 --> 5.84] But poor as I am -[5.84 --> 10.00] I will give to Him my heart -[10.68 --> 16.88] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore -[16.88 --> 23.00] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore -[23.62 --> 27.58] Unto us a child is born -[27.58 --> 30.98] The King of kings, the Lord of lords -[30.98 --> 36.94] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore -[36.94 --> 41.10] Here within the manger lies -[41.10 --> 44.42] The one who built the starry skies -[44.42 --> 47.62] This baby born for sacrifice -[47.62 --> 50.46] Christ the Messiah -[50.46 --> 54.52] To our hopes and to our fears -[54.52 --> 57.82] The Savior of the world appears -[57.82 --> 61.40] The promise of eternal years -[61.40 --> 63.88] Christ the Messiah -[63.88 --> 69.92] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore -[69.92 --> 77.22] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore -[77.28 --> 87.18] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore -[87.18 --> 90.60] Forevermore, forevermore -[90.60 --> 93.14] A child is born to us -[93.14 --> 94.14] A child is born -[94.14 --> 97.28] The King of kings and Lord -[97.28 --> 99.18] And he shall reign -[99.18 --> 100.64] And he shall reign -[100.64 --> 104.06] Forevermore, forevermore -[104.06 --> 106.48] And he shall reign -[106.48 --> 113.18] And he shall reign -[113.18 --> 118.18] And he shall reign -[118.18 --> 119.18] Forevermore -[143.18 --> 151.34] O come, all ye faithful -[151.34 --> 157.18] Joyful and triumphant -[157.18 --> 162.18] O come, ye O come ye -[162.18 --> 171.18] O come ye to Bethlehem -[171.18 --> 177.18] Come and behold him -[177.18 --> 183.18] Born the King of angels -[183.18 --> 189.18] O come, let us adore him -[189.18 --> 195.18] O come, let us adore him -[195.18 --> 202.18] O come, let us adore him -[202.18 --> 208.18] Christ the Lord -[208.18 --> 224.18] Sing, choirs of angels -[224.18 --> 230.18] Sing in exultation -[230.18 --> 236.18] Sing, all ye citizens -[236.18 --> 242.18] Of heaven above -[242.18 --> 249.18] Glory to God, oh -[249.18 --> 255.18] Glory in the highest -[255.18 --> 262.18] O come, let us adore him -[262.18 --> 268.18] O come, let us adore him -[268.18 --> 274.18] O come, let us adore him -[274.18 --> 280.18] Christ the Lord -[280.18 --> 282.18] We worship you -[282.18 --> 283.18] We worship you -[283.18 --> 285.18] We worship you -[285.18 --> 287.18] Christ the Lord -[287.18 --> 290.18] We worship you -[290.18 --> 291.18] Jesus -[291.18 --> 293.18] We worship you -[293.18 --> 294.18] Jesus -[294.18 --> 295.18] O come, let us adore him -[295.18 --> 297.18] We worship you -[297.18 --> 300.18] Jesus -[300.18 --> 302.18] O come, let us adore him -[302.18 --> 316.18] Jesus -[316.18 --> 319.18] Jesus -[319.18 --> 329.18] To thee be all glory given -[329.18 --> 340.86] Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing. -[343.60 --> 349.36] O come, let us adore. -[350.66 --> 355.08] O come, let us adore. -[355.08 --> 364.08] O come, let us adore Him. -[364.08 --> 372.08] Christ the Lord. -[372.08 --> 378.08] The Lord. -[378.08 --> 385.08] His name shall be wonderful counselor. -[385.08 --> 391.08] His name shall be everlasting Father. -[391.08 --> 397.08] His name shall be Prince of Peace, mighty God. -[397.08 --> 404.08] His name shall be Emmanuel. -[404.08 --> 410.08] We'll praise Your name forever. -[410.08 --> 417.08] We'll praise Your name forever. -[417.08 --> 423.08] We'll praise Your name forever. -[423.08 --> 429.08] Christ is Christ the Lord. -[429.08 --> 433.08] We'll praise Your name forever. -[433.08 --> 436.08] We'll praise Your name forever. -[436.08 --> 438.08] We'll praise His name forever. -[438.08 --> 441.08] We'll praise Your name forever. -[441.08 --> 445.08] We'll praise Your name forever. -[445.08 --> 447.08] We'll praise Your name forever. -[447.08 --> 453.08] Christ the Lord. -[453.08 --> 460.08] You are Christ the Lord. -[460.08 --> 462.08] You are Christ the Lord. -[462.08 --> 464.08] You are Christ the Lord. -[464.08 --> 470.08] His name shall be wonderful counselor. -[470.08 --> 471.08] Counselor. -[471.08 --> 477.08] His name shall be everlasting Father. -[477.08 --> 483.08] His name shall be Prince of Peace, mighty God. -[483.08 --> 493.08] His name shall be Emmanuel. -[500.08 --> 516.08] His name shall be full on w trazer Heel to sigh the Lord. -[516.08 --> 518.08] Love incarnate, love divine. -[518.08 --> 525.08] Star and angel's gave the sign. -[525.08 --> 539.32] shine bow to babe on bended knee the savior of humanity -[543.48 --> 546.44] unto us a child is born -[550.36 --> 552.92] he shall reign forever -[555.08 --> 569.08] come and see what god has done -[569.08 --> 571.08] no -[571.08 --> 575.08] no -[575.08 --> 583.08] the story of amazing love -[583.08 --> 585.08] the light of the world -[585.08 --> 589.08] given for us -[589.08 --> 591.08] no -[591.08 --> 593.08] no -[593.08 --> 595.08] no -[595.08 --> 597.08] no -[597.08 --> 599.08] no -[599.08 --> 601.08] no -[601.08 --> 603.08] no -[603.08 --> 605.08] no -[605.08 --> 607.08] no -[607.08 --> 609.08] no -[609.08 --> 611.08] no -[611.08 --> 613.08] no -[613.08 --> 615.08] no -[615.08 --> 617.08] no -[617.08 --> 618.08] no -[618.08 --> 619.08] no -[619.08 --> 619.48] no -[619.48 --> 621.08] no -[621.08 --> 623.08] no -[623.08 --> 625.08] no -[625.08 --> 626.08] no -[626.08 --> 629.08] no -[631.08 --> 633.08] no -[633.08 --> 635.08] no -[635.08 --> 639.08] no -[639.08 --> 643.08] no -[643.08 --> 650.12] service and after our service this morning out in the foyer john and allison will be there -[650.12 --> 661.48] we are hoping to update and publish in a timely manner 2022 directory and so we want to update -[661.48 --> 666.92] some photos especially you young families your kids haven't been updated in their pictures since -[666.92 --> 675.44] 2018 and who knows how old those pictures were already then and so we want to help everyone -[675.44 --> 681.68] understand who we are worshiping with as a community together especially these days when -[681.68 --> 687.16] we ordinarily see each other they're with masks and so you can flip through the directory real quick -[687.16 --> 692.66] and say oh that's what the bottom half of their face looks like as someone who's was new a year -[692.66 --> 698.06] go into the community i can also attest the value of photo directories as a family we would study it -[698.06 --> 703.22] in the evenings together to figure out who it was that we talked to that day and so please -[703.22 --> 709.40] for people like me and to welcome others into the community update your photos make sure your -[709.40 --> 716.38] address and phone numbers and emails and the like are correct with john there this is the last sunday -[716.38 --> 724.72] that they will be out there and so after that it's on your own initiative to get pictures and the like -[724.72 --> 734.64] to them this evening at seven o'clock we are hosting a choir performance and worship service called joy has -[734.64 --> 742.54] dawned and we had done sign up for that there's like three or four spaces left in that sign up and so -[742.54 --> 748.36] if you would like to come and haven't yet signed up please do that quickly the link is in the e-bulletin -[748.36 --> 754.62] if you don't have that you can talk to me following the service although it's very possible that by that -[754.62 --> 761.22] time someone who does have it has signed up and filled that spot for the performance tonight if you are in -[761.22 --> 769.32] the choir or reading there is a dress rehearsal at 5 30 and so please be here for 5 30 so that we can -[769.32 --> 775.24] start that at 7 o'clock together that will also of course be live streamed and so you can participate -[775.24 --> 780.86] in that way and then of course one final announcement just want to invite you to our -[780.86 --> 786.78] christmas day worship service which will happen here on christmas day that's december 25 at 10 a.m -[786.78 --> 794.50] we will gather and celebrate the coming of jesus our savior into this world and we will together then -[794.50 --> 801.56] in anticipation proclaim his name waiting for his coming again so that's christmas day 10 o'clock here -[801.56 --> 809.22] also live streamed available to you i think that's all the announcements that i have and so i'm going -[809.22 --> 813.24] to invite robin and tara to come up and they're going to lead us in the candle lighting -[824.50 --> 854.48] the one who will -[854.48 --> 862.00] the one who will rule israel is from of old from the ancient days the one on whom we wait is from the -[862.00 --> 865.20] most unexpected place the bethlehem of etharah -[872.56 --> 879.68] the shepherd's mother is in labor the whole world cries out with her in her labor pains -[879.68 --> 893.68] we need the shepherd to stand and feed his flock for the whole world is groaning in need of god's peace -[893.68 --> 916.64] we light the peace candle this week because jesus is the prince of peace in jesus we shall live securely as christ's peace extends to the ends of the earth -[916.64 --> 928.64] we pray god of peace you send us the prince of peace we long for his peace to rule in our lives and relationships -[928.64 --> 934.64] we yearn for every corner of your world to be subject to your peace -[934.64 --> 950.64] we eagerly await the days when your whole flock will live in the security of your peace may we through the power of your spirit shine the peace of christ in dark in the darkness in jesus name we pray amen -[950.64 --> 968.64] on this fourth and final sunday of advent i'm going to invite you as you are able and where you are to stand we can be welcomed in god's presence with his -[968.64 --> 969.36] greetings -[969.36 --> 982.76] may the love of god the grace of the lord jesus christ and the fellowship of the holy spirit be and abide with you all -[982.76 --> 986.84] god's people said amen worship god in song -[998.64 --> 1018.64] i heard the bells on christmas day -[1018.64 --> 1024.64] the bells on christmas day -[1024.64 --> 1028.64] the bells are ringing -[1028.64 --> 1032.64] like a choir they're singing -[1032.64 --> 1034.64] peace on earth -[1034.64 --> 1052.64] in my heart i hear them -[1052.64 --> 1056.64] peace on earth -[1056.64 --> 1062.64] good will to men -[1062.64 --> 1068.64] in despair i bow my head -[1068.64 --> 1074.64] there is no peace on earth i said -[1074.64 --> 1080.64] pain is strong and marks the song -[1080.64 --> 1096.64] truthfully -[1096.64 --> 1102.64] Is anybody here then? -[1104.64 --> 1110.64] Is on earth goodwill to man? -[1114.64 --> 1121.64] Then ring the bells more loud and deep, God is not dead nor does he sleep. -[1121.64 --> 1126.64] Peace on earth, peace on earth. -[1127.64 --> 1138.64] The rock shall fail, the ripe prevail, with peace on earth, goodwill to man. -[1138.64 --> 1150.64] Ringing, singing on its way, the world revolved from night to day. -[1150.64 --> 1162.64] A voice of chime, a chance of life, of peace on earth, goodwill to man. -[1162.64 --> 1168.64] Do you hear the bells there ringing? -[1168.64 --> 1172.64] Peace on earth, peace on earth. -[1172.64 --> 1179.64] Peace on earth, peace on earth. -[1179.64 --> 1185.64] Peace on earth, goodwill to man. -[1186.64 --> 1191.64] Do you hear the bells there ringing? -[1191.64 --> 1192.64] Do you hear the bells there ringing? -[1192.64 --> 1197.64] Peace on earth, like the angels singing. -[1197.64 --> 1204.64] Peace on earth, open up your heart and hear them. -[1204.64 --> 1210.64] Peace on earth, goodwill to man. -[1210.64 --> 1211.64] dear way to man. -[1211.64 --> 1214.64] Peace on earth, goodwill to man. -[1219.64 --> 1224.64] Peace on earth, goodwill to man. -[1224.64 --> 1237.36] Peace on earth, peace on earth, goodwill to men. -[1254.64 --> 1278.40] O Holy Night, the stars are brightly shining. -[1278.40 --> 1287.20] It is the night of the dear Savior's birth. -[1288.76 --> 1297.12] Long lay the world in sin and error pining, -[1297.12 --> 1305.88] till he appeared and the soul felt its worth. -[1305.88 --> 1314.68] A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices, -[1315.22 --> 1323.32] for yonder breaks a new and glorious morn. -[1323.32 --> 1330.12] Fall on your knees. -[1330.12 --> 1338.46] Oh, hear the angel voices. -[1340.04 --> 1345.12] Oh, night divine. -[1345.12 --> 1355.12] Oh, night when Christ was born. -[1355.12 --> 1361.92] Oh, night divine. -[1361.92 --> 1370.46] Oh, night when Christ divine. -[1370.46 --> 1375.26] Oh, night divine. -[1375.26 --> 1379.52] Oh, night divine. -[1379.52 --> 1397.52] another. His love is love and his gospel is peace. Shame shall he pray for the slave -[1397.52 --> 1415.52] is our brother and in his name all oppression shall cease. Sweet hymns of joy in grateful -[1415.52 --> 1439.82] chorus raise we. Let all within us praise his holy name. Christ is the Lord. Oh praise his -[1439.82 --> 1469.80] name forever. His power and glory evermore acclaim. His power and glory. -[1469.82 --> 1496.82] His power and glory evermore proclaim. Fall on your knees. Oh hear the angel voices. Oh -[1496.82 --> 1513.34] night. Oh night divine. Oh night when Christ was born. -[1513.34 --> 1529.00] O night divine, O night, O night divine. -[1529.00 --> 1558.98] O night divine. -[1559.00 --> 1588.98] O night divine, O night divine. -[1589.00 --> 1595.88] Hope in God, for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God. -[1595.88 --> 1602.76] O night divine, O night divine. -[1602.76 --> 1609.64] O night divine, O night divine. -[1609.64 --> 1616.52] O night divine, O night divine. -[1616.52 --> 1623.40] O night divine, O night divine. -[1623.40 --> 1630.28] O night divine, O night divine. -[1630.28 --> 1637.16] O night divine, O night divine. -[1637.16 --> 1644.04] O night divine, O night divine. -[1644.04 --> 1650.92] O night divine, O night divine. -[1650.92 --> 1657.80] O night divine, O night divine. -[1657.80 --> 1664.68] O night divine, O night divine. -[1664.68 --> 1668.68] O night divine, O night divine. -[1668.68 --> 1675.56] O night divine, O night divine. -[1675.56 --> 1682.44] O night divine, O night divine. -[1682.44 --> 1686.44] O night divine, O night divine. -[1686.44 --> 1688.44] O night divine. -[1688.44 --> 1695.32] O night divine. -[1695.32 --> 1699.32] O night divine. -[1699.32 --> 1701.32] O night divine. -[1701.32 --> 1708.20] O night divine. -[1708.20 --> 1710.20] O night divine. -[1710.20 --> 1712.20] O night divine. -[1712.20 --> 1714.20] O night divine. -[1714.20 --> 1716.08] O night divine. -[1716.08 --> 1717.08] O night divine. -[1717.08 --> 1719.08] O night divine. -[1719.08 --> 1721.08] O night divine. -[1721.08 --> 1725.58] my shield to you -[1725.58 --> 1729.58] my spirit -[1729.58 --> 1733.58] you -[1733.58 --> 1737.58] my heart's desire -[1737.58 --> 1743.58] to worship you -[1743.58 --> 1747.58] you alone are my strength -[1747.58 --> 1751.58] my shield to you alone -[1751.58 --> 1753.58] may my spirit -[1753.58 --> 1755.58] heal -[1755.58 --> 1759.58] you alone -[1759.58 --> 1763.58] are my heart's desire and I -[1763.58 --> 1765.58] long to worship -[1765.58 --> 1767.58] you -[1771.58 --> 1773.58] please be seated -[1777.58 --> 1787.58] good morning -[1787.58 --> 1793.58] this week the offerings are for the church budget and for the Abbotsford flood response -[1793.58 --> 1805.58] there will also be an opportunity this evening with the choir performance to give to the Abbotsford flood relief as on request of the choir and there will be two deacons standing at the entrance doors to collect any of the church. -[1805.58 --> 1815.58] We are currently partnering with our sister church gateway CRC who has organized a flood response in partnership with Christian stewardship services. -[1815.58 --> 1819.58] We'd like to thank those of you who brought goods to the church and those are going to be on their way tomorrow over to gateway and also any other donations that people have given. -[1819.58 --> 1829.58] The church is donating also a number of leftover gift cards from our reverse offering and that should hopefully help some individuals that are struggling. -[1829.58 --> 1831.58] Today is the last day for our church collection of goods. -[1831.58 --> 1835.58] Today is the last day for our church collection of goods but if you do want to still give some things you can always bring them to gateway CRC. -[1835.58 --> 1841.58] And on the gateway CRC website they have a list of things that they still still need. -[1841.58 --> 1853.58] On this coming Saturday which is Christmas Day, the special offering will be for the Langley Night Shift Ministry with which members of this church are quite involved. -[1853.58 --> 1869.58] And then the next week Sunday December 26th the entire offering will be for our church budget. -[1869.58 --> 1883.58] And as you know we're operating with significant deficit still and we hope to resolve this as best we can before the new year. -[1883.58 --> 1892.58] Just a reminder if you're giving cash or checks they should be in by the 28th of December in order to have tax receipts for this year. -[1892.58 --> 1896.58] And electronic payments can be made up till December 31st. -[1896.58 --> 1900.58] We think of what Jesus said in Luke 6 verse 38. -[1900.58 --> 1903.58] Give and it will be given to you. -[1903.58 --> 1909.58] A good measure pressed down shaken together and running over will be poured into your lap. -[1909.58 --> 1914.58] For with the measure you use it will be measured to you. -[1914.58 --> 1916.58] Please give generously as the Lord has blessed you. -[1939.58 --> 1948.58] O Little town of Bethlehem -[1948.58 --> 1953.58] How still we see thee lie -[1953.58 --> 1964.62] Above thy deep and streamless sleep, the silent stars go by. -[1964.62 --> 1976.28] Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light. -[1976.28 --> 1987.38] The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight. -[1990.14 --> 2001.28] How silently, how silently the wondrous gift is given. -[2001.28 --> 2012.28] So God imparts to human hearts the blessings of his love. -[2013.72 --> 2024.28] No ear may hear his coming, but in this world of sin. -[2024.28 --> 2035.28] Where meek souls will receive in him the dear Christ's enter sin. -[2035.28 --> 2049.28] O holy child of Bethlehem, descend to us we pray. -[2049.28 --> 2059.94] Cast out our sin and enter in, be born in us today. -[2061.28 --> 2071.28] We hear the Christmas angels, the great glad tidings tell. -[2071.28 --> 2082.28] O come to us, abide with us, our Lord Emmanuel. -[2082.28 --> 2112.26] O come to us, our Lord Emmanuel. -[2112.26 --> 2116.72] Good morning, everybody. -[2119.12 --> 2120.06] We try that again. -[2120.26 --> 2121.86] I didn't even hear anybody, I don't think. -[2122.24 --> 2122.84] Good morning. -[2124.24 --> 2125.16] There we go. -[2125.22 --> 2125.96] How are we doing today? -[2126.86 --> 2127.26] Good. -[2127.54 --> 2128.46] I have a friend with us. -[2128.50 --> 2129.38] He's sitting right on this chair. -[2129.46 --> 2129.88] Do you see him? -[2131.76 --> 2132.34] That's Hank. -[2132.46 --> 2133.72] Should we see if he's awake? -[2135.00 --> 2135.36] Yeah? -[2135.50 --> 2135.70] Okay. -[2135.78 --> 2136.10] Let's see. -[2136.10 --> 2142.02] Hi, everyone. -[2145.30 --> 2146.76] They're very quiet today. -[2146.90 --> 2147.78] They are very quiet today. -[2147.78 --> 2148.30] Should we try again? -[2148.48 --> 2148.76] Mm-hmm. -[2149.20 --> 2150.02] Hi, everyone. -[2150.44 --> 2151.84] Hi, Matt. -[2152.88 --> 2153.64] Oh, wow. -[2153.70 --> 2154.16] That's better. -[2154.30 --> 2156.30] You kids look great. -[2156.30 --> 2162.22] You don't look great. -[2162.30 --> 2162.54] What? -[2162.86 --> 2164.30] What do you mean I don't look great? -[2164.62 --> 2165.74] What's with the sweater? -[2166.42 --> 2167.20] I love the sweater. -[2167.26 --> 2169.18] This is my beautiful Christmas sweater. -[2169.28 --> 2170.82] I thought I'd wear it today for Kids Corner. -[2172.16 --> 2172.58] Why? -[2173.44 --> 2177.72] Well, because Mr. Eric wore his nice Christmas sweater a few weeks ago, and I thought I could -[2177.72 --> 2178.56] be like Mr. Eric. -[2178.80 --> 2180.50] Why would you want to be like Mr. Eric? -[2180.50 --> 2182.88] Well, why wouldn't you want to be like Mr. Eric? -[2183.66 --> 2185.32] All right. -[2185.44 --> 2191.68] So, do you kids remember last time when I was up here, we were talking about different gifts -[2191.68 --> 2193.20] that we get given, right? -[2193.26 --> 2196.26] And different, oh, different activities we like to do that make us a little bit nervous. -[2196.70 --> 2197.24] Do you remember that? -[2197.30 --> 2198.06] What did we talk about? -[2198.80 --> 2198.94] Yeah? -[2200.14 --> 2201.02] Roller skating. -[2201.16 --> 2202.92] And what did Hank really want for Christmas? -[2204.14 --> 2205.04] Roller skates. -[2205.08 --> 2205.74] Do you remember, Hank? -[2205.86 --> 2206.24] Uh-huh. -[2206.48 --> 2208.52] I really want to learn to roller skate. -[2209.02 --> 2209.48] I know. -[2209.48 --> 2210.66] And guess what happened? -[2211.88 --> 2212.94] He got them. -[2213.44 --> 2216.28] Someone in the church gave Hank a gift. -[2216.36 --> 2217.48] Do you want to know who it is, Hank? -[2217.74 --> 2218.08] Uh-huh. -[2218.36 --> 2219.52] But don't make it too obvious. -[2219.94 --> 2220.24] All right. -[2220.52 --> 2222.76] His name was Penn H. -[2223.10 --> 2223.92] That's too obvious. -[2224.36 --> 2225.98] How about Kay Hogawoning? -[2226.20 --> 2226.74] That's better. -[2227.86 --> 2228.68] That's your dad. -[2228.78 --> 2229.30] That's right. -[2229.92 --> 2230.30] That's right. -[2230.34 --> 2231.48] We call him the Ken-janeer. -[2232.80 --> 2233.32] All right. -[2233.34 --> 2236.48] So, he has whipped together some roller skates for you, Hank. -[2236.52 --> 2237.00] What do you think? -[2237.16 --> 2237.74] Oh, all right. -[2237.74 --> 2238.50] Should we see them? -[2238.50 --> 2239.86] You guys want to see them? -[2240.32 --> 2241.38] Yeah, they're right here. -[2241.48 --> 2242.28] They're wrapped up. -[2244.46 --> 2246.22] Oh, Amara, we're going to find out. -[2247.02 --> 2247.92] Look, Hank. -[2249.60 --> 2250.76] All right. -[2250.90 --> 2251.80] Should we try them out? -[2252.08 --> 2252.48] Yeah. -[2252.74 --> 2253.90] Should we try them out with Hank? -[2254.22 --> 2256.20] I think Hank wants to go down this ramp. -[2256.32 --> 2256.86] What do you think? -[2257.72 --> 2258.08] Yeah? -[2258.24 --> 2259.38] Should we send Hank down the ramp? -[2259.88 --> 2260.80] We should ask Hank. -[2261.06 --> 2262.62] Ask Hank if he wants to go down the ramp. -[2262.88 --> 2263.24] Yeah. -[2263.24 --> 2263.74] Yeah. -[2266.06 --> 2266.50] All right. -[2266.54 --> 2267.48] Let's try it out, okay? -[2267.56 --> 2268.48] You guys stay right here. -[2268.76 --> 2270.18] You can stand up if you want. -[2270.46 --> 2271.10] Are you ready, Hank? -[2271.24 --> 2271.62] Mm-hmm. -[2272.00 --> 2273.50] So, we're going to put them right here. -[2274.96 --> 2276.08] Oh, I'm so nervous. -[2278.14 --> 2279.00] Oh, stay up, Hank. -[2279.06 --> 2279.42] Stay up. -[2279.74 --> 2280.34] Are you ready, Hank? -[2280.46 --> 2280.84] Mm-hmm. -[2280.84 --> 2282.16] I'm a little bit nervous. -[2282.26 --> 2282.58] Are you? -[2282.82 --> 2284.14] Yeah, so nervous already. -[2284.60 --> 2286.22] One, two, three. -[2286.60 --> 2286.86] Ah! -[2288.68 --> 2289.38] Oh, no. -[2289.44 --> 2290.04] He passed out. -[2290.74 --> 2291.64] Oh, no. -[2292.30 --> 2292.72] Hank! -[2293.64 --> 2294.90] Hank, are you okay? -[2295.20 --> 2295.76] Wake up. -[2296.16 --> 2297.50] Oh, what happened? -[2298.28 --> 2299.62] You went down the ramp, Hank. -[2299.96 --> 2300.72] Was it cool? -[2301.44 --> 2302.00] Was it cool? -[2302.22 --> 2302.62] Yeah. -[2302.72 --> 2302.96] Yeah? -[2303.14 --> 2303.70] Okay, sit down. -[2303.76 --> 2304.02] Sit down. -[2304.10 --> 2304.42] Sit down. -[2305.96 --> 2307.62] Hank, that was very impressive. -[2307.96 --> 2308.32] Thanks. -[2309.46 --> 2310.12] You know what? -[2310.12 --> 2313.58] We're going to talk about a story today in children's worship time that has to do with -[2313.58 --> 2314.08] giving gifts. -[2314.84 --> 2315.54] You are? -[2315.94 --> 2316.62] We are. -[2317.08 --> 2321.52] You guys, what Christmas story in the Bible that talks about gifts? -[2321.76 --> 2321.92] Yeah. -[2324.66 --> 2324.98] Yeah? -[2325.24 --> 2326.02] Jesus was born. -[2326.10 --> 2326.46] That's right. -[2326.56 --> 2327.66] And who gave him gifts? -[2328.48 --> 2329.38] The wise men. -[2329.44 --> 2332.10] We're going to talk about the wise men today in children's worship time, which is handy -[2332.10 --> 2333.62] because I talked about it last week in real church. -[2334.20 --> 2336.68] So, I'm just going to preach my sermon to you in children's worship time. -[2336.70 --> 2337.12] What do you think? -[2337.78 --> 2338.58] Is that a good idea? -[2338.58 --> 2338.66] Yeah? -[2339.40 --> 2340.56] Okay, I'll do a shorter version. -[2341.40 --> 2341.56] Okay. -[2341.64 --> 2342.06] Sounds good. -[2342.18 --> 2342.44] All right. -[2342.66 --> 2343.78] So, we're going to go out to children's worship time. -[2343.80 --> 2346.78] We're going to pray and then we'll head off, okay? -[2347.00 --> 2349.10] And we'll do the children's blessing first and then we'll head off. -[2349.18 --> 2349.54] Sound good? -[2350.28 --> 2350.92] Sound good, Hank? -[2351.08 --> 2351.36] Mm-hmm. -[2351.60 --> 2351.94] All right. -[2351.98 --> 2352.28] Here we go. -[2352.32 --> 2352.66] Let's pray. -[2352.82 --> 2353.28] Hold your hands. -[2353.38 --> 2353.74] Close your eyes. -[2353.78 --> 2354.04] Let's pray. -[2354.32 --> 2355.52] God, thank you so much for this day. -[2355.90 --> 2359.34] Thank you that it's the season of Advent that we can wait for Christmas, which is happening -[2359.34 --> 2359.78] this week. -[2359.86 --> 2364.68] We pray that you'll be with us in children's worship time or as we stay back in church, help us just -[2364.68 --> 2366.90] learn more about you with open ears and hearts. -[2366.90 --> 2367.74] We pray this in your name. -[2367.92 --> 2368.10] Amen. -[2368.92 --> 2369.18] All right. -[2369.24 --> 2369.82] Say bye, Hank. -[2370.00 --> 2370.64] Bye, Hank. -[2371.60 --> 2372.12] All right. -[2372.36 --> 2372.90] Stand up. -[2372.96 --> 2373.34] Bye, Hank. -[2373.54 --> 2376.82] We're going to do the children's blessing first. -[2376.90 --> 2377.62] So, hands up. -[2378.36 --> 2378.58] Ready? -[2378.68 --> 2379.30] Hands up. -[2380.22 --> 2381.16] You ready to say it with me? -[2381.22 --> 2381.80] Let's say it together. -[2382.62 --> 2384.98] The Lord be with you. -[2386.82 --> 2387.26] All right. -[2387.30 --> 2387.80] Let's head off. -[2387.80 --> 2388.72] Let's head off. -[2388.72 --> 2392.80] Let's head off. -[2396.90 --> 2415.22] Wow. -[2415.22 --> 2416.36] That's tough to beat. -[2416.36 --> 2420.44] I got to amp up my game next time I do children's worship. -[2420.44 --> 2421.80] So, I got lots to think about. -[2421.90 --> 2422.34] Thanks, Kevin. -[2424.04 --> 2426.08] Thanks, Mary, for the reminder about the budget. -[2426.20 --> 2426.94] I was going to do that. -[2427.06 --> 2432.76] So, hopefully you all heard that from Mary about we're still looking for some more contributions -[2432.76 --> 2434.38] to the budget for the end of the year. -[2434.50 --> 2436.82] So, please prayerfully consider that. -[2438.88 --> 2441.08] Now it's time for the family prayer. -[2441.12 --> 2445.24] I just want to make a couple notes for people that's been kind of on my mind. -[2445.24 --> 2451.34] It always seems like this is a great time of the year, but also it's a difficult time -[2451.34 --> 2451.82] for many. -[2452.82 --> 2456.64] In our own community here, many have lost loved ones in the last year. -[2456.72 --> 2462.34] I can think of Harvey lost his dad and Karen, she wasn't there, lost her dad. -[2463.02 --> 2469.00] Of course, Alexander's, the Miles lost a couple people in their family. -[2469.12 --> 2472.08] Of course, we always think of Dave Alexander's family, the Alexanders. -[2472.08 --> 2476.50] So, we got to keep those people in mind because this is a difficult time of the year for those -[2476.50 --> 2477.46] folks. -[2479.76 --> 2483.80] And also, those have lost loved ones in years past, and when you get together at Christmas, -[2483.94 --> 2486.66] it's always a difficult time because there's someone missing in the room. -[2489.92 --> 2493.62] I'm assuming, I talked to some people this week, that the travel restrictions and all -[2493.62 --> 2497.08] the COVID restrictions have prevented some families from getting together at Christmas -[2497.08 --> 2497.50] as well. -[2497.60 --> 2500.26] So, that's something that is on people's minds as well. -[2500.26 --> 2506.56] I know in our own home also, there's broken relationships that sometimes make Christmas -[2506.56 --> 2507.68] time difficult too. -[2508.56 --> 2514.80] Maybe family members don't want to be hanging out or when you are together can be a little -[2514.80 --> 2515.36] bit difficult. -[2515.52 --> 2518.22] So, I think we should be thinking about that as well. -[2519.58 --> 2523.80] And maybe for 2021, it's been a rough, rough year and you're looking forward to 2022 and -[2523.80 --> 2524.84] want to put this year behind. -[2524.96 --> 2525.08] Yeah. -[2525.14 --> 2526.88] So, that's something we can think about too. -[2526.88 --> 2531.86] Also, some great things about Christmas as well, getting together with friends and family -[2531.86 --> 2534.08] can also be a joyous occasion. -[2534.22 --> 2535.64] So, we were thankful for that as well. -[2537.16 --> 2544.24] In our church, there's not too many prayer concerns, but Miriam DeWinter, Pastor Chris's -[2544.24 --> 2545.96] mom had some eye surgery this week. -[2546.04 --> 2548.12] According to Chris, she's doing well. -[2548.34 --> 2548.94] She's doing good. -[2548.94 --> 2554.24] She is going to have to relax this Christmas, I hear, because normally she likes to do a -[2554.24 --> 2555.26] lot of things around the house. -[2555.36 --> 2558.80] But now she's going to have to relax and let others do a lot of the heavy lifting. -[2558.92 --> 2559.50] So, that's good. -[2559.56 --> 2560.30] She gets to relax. -[2560.74 --> 2566.92] And I think we should still keep in our minds and thoughts as the Abbotsford flood victims, -[2567.10 --> 2569.18] there's still a lot of cleanup and work to be done there. -[2569.36 --> 2572.92] So, with that, we'll go to God in prayer. -[2572.92 --> 2578.18] Dear God, what a beautiful morning we were welcomed to this morning. -[2579.50 --> 2584.74] The bright sun, the bright blue sky, the frosty landscape are a great reminder of your steadfast -[2584.74 --> 2585.14] presence. -[2586.06 --> 2590.74] We thank you for the opportunity we have in this country to worship you here freely together -[2590.74 --> 2591.80] with all our friends. -[2592.68 --> 2597.36] And we are grateful for technology so those at home can still participate this morning. -[2597.36 --> 2600.96] Lord, we are thankful for this Advent season. -[2601.30 --> 2605.04] As we work our way through these last couple weeks before the anniversary of your birth, -[2605.12 --> 2609.60] we are reminded of your great gift of your son Jesus to us many years ago. -[2610.58 --> 2617.10] The message Jesus brought of hope, love, forgiveness, and peace to all who follow him is so special. -[2618.34 --> 2624.02] But we worry, Lord, about the eroding of Christianity in our world and the secularization of our world -[2624.02 --> 2627.04] by the media, social media, and just culture in general. -[2628.12 --> 2633.24] Help us to be strong and convicted and give us the strength and determination to fight -[2633.24 --> 2635.70] back and be a light for you in the darkness. -[2637.48 --> 2642.36] Lord, this is a great time of year for taking a break from work, sports, and other commitments -[2642.36 --> 2645.48] that consume a lot of our time and mental space. -[2646.26 --> 2651.90] Help us to refuel and refocus as we prepare for the regular schedule of life in the new year. -[2651.90 --> 2657.78] We pray for all to have an enjoyable time with friends and family this Christmas season. -[2659.20 --> 2662.28] But for some, this time of the year is not a great time of the year. -[2662.84 --> 2668.62] Some notice a missing person at family functions due to recent loss or a loss in years past. -[2669.30 --> 2674.16] Some of us are sad because of broken relationships and families that prevent families from getting together -[2674.16 --> 2676.74] or disharmony when they do get together. -[2677.74 --> 2682.30] Some of us may be frustrated because of the hope of seeing family has been crushed -[2682.30 --> 2685.40] by the restrictions put on travel, vaccinations, or illness. -[2686.36 --> 2689.74] We pray, Lord, for healing for those broken relationships. -[2689.74 --> 2695.36] And hope for those who have loved ones and those who cannot see their loved ones this Christmas. -[2697.16 --> 2701.38] Lord, we ask special prayer for those in our community that are lonely and shut in. -[2702.44 --> 2705.64] We pray for those who suffer from physical and mental illness. -[2706.38 --> 2709.86] Because we know those issues do not take a break at this time of the year. -[2710.98 --> 2715.14] We pray for those in Abbotsford who are recovering from the floods from a few weeks back. -[2715.14 --> 2720.22] And Lord, we want to thank you for our staff here at Emanuel. -[2720.50 --> 2723.54] Chris, Kevin, Sylvia, Marilyn, Josh, and Grace. -[2723.78 --> 2727.56] Thank you for the work they put in here at Emanuel. -[2727.88 --> 2730.68] Thank you for all our volunteers that make this church function. -[2731.50 --> 2736.30] Especially those that take on leadership roles or roles that require a lot of time commitment. -[2737.80 --> 2742.48] Lord, we ask that you continue to guide and give wisdom to the leadership team at this church. -[2742.48 --> 2746.62] And Lord, we pray for a great day today. -[2747.44 --> 2751.64] Please bless Mark and the choir tonight as they do their performance and that all goes well. -[2752.78 --> 2756.32] And Lord, help us to go into the world in our community and in our orbit. -[2756.52 --> 2759.08] And give the energy and odor that comes from following you. -[2760.22 --> 2761.70] In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. -[2761.70 --> 2761.80] Amen. -[2772.48 --> 2788.40] We are going to continue in our Advent and Christmas teaching series this morning, -[2788.40 --> 2794.74] Unhallmark Christmas, by looking at the birth story of Jesus. -[2794.90 --> 2797.30] And so we're going to read from Luke 2. -[2797.76 --> 2800.72] We'll do the first seven verses there. -[2800.72 --> 2804.18] I encourage you to have a Bible. -[2804.34 --> 2804.74] Find that. -[2804.82 --> 2805.18] Open it up. -[2805.22 --> 2807.12] It will be on the screen as we go through it. -[2808.56 --> 2814.16] Before I jump into the text, let me offer this to you. -[2815.00 --> 2817.76] I've really enjoyed this particular series. -[2818.18 --> 2823.66] And I've enjoyed your feedback and the engagement that Pastor Kevin and I both have been getting from you. -[2823.66 --> 2831.56] As we sort of expand our awareness of what actually happened in the Christmas story. -[2833.36 --> 2837.08] Kevin mentioned it last week briefly and I'll reiterate it here. -[2837.22 --> 2844.58] But it's really important for us to start with the text and to look what is actually said in the text. -[2844.58 --> 2862.84] And then from there begin to extrapolate meaning or the story because it is really easy for different outside sources and influences to impose ideas and images and structures on these stories. -[2862.84 --> 2870.62] In a way that because they've happened for so long really slip past our critical defenses. -[2870.94 --> 2874.32] That is our engagement and thinking about what we are hearing. -[2874.32 --> 2886.40] And so as I read this text, I want you to pay particular attention to what's there, but more importantly, what's not. -[2888.04 --> 2889.74] And so think of your Christmas nativities. -[2890.04 --> 2890.94] Think of your stories. -[2891.22 --> 2892.68] Think of everything you hear. -[2892.94 --> 2898.08] And think of the different places you visited in the last week that have displayed these sorts of things. -[2898.08 --> 2928.06] Think of everything you have. -[2928.08 --> 2958.06] Think of everything you have. -[2958.08 --> 2963.54] Think of everything you have. -[2965.72 --> 2967.12] This is the word of the Lord. -[2969.96 --> 2977.82] Now before we get into the particulars of this story and of this text, I want to do two things. -[2977.92 --> 2983.12] One, I want to acknowledge my own sort of anxiety right now. -[2983.12 --> 2991.44] because I'm not afraid, but I'm intrigued as to how what I am about to share with you and the -[2991.44 --> 2997.08] actual history of these events is going to shatter your cute little hallmarked story of Christmas -[2997.08 --> 3003.74] and the impact that that might have on you. And so being aware of that, I don't want to run from -[3003.74 --> 3008.76] it, but I want to press into it. And so if you want to disagree with me or if you want to fight -[3008.76 --> 3013.68] me after the service, I will be in the foyer ready to go after the school bell. -[3017.32 --> 3025.20] But second to that, I also want to begin for a moment just by saying that it really matters -[3025.20 --> 3034.60] that we actually get the history right. Right? Some of us go through this season of Christmas -[3034.60 --> 3040.78] or really we go through our experience of Christianity and faith more generally by -[3040.78 --> 3048.96] saying, isn't it just enough that we have some sort of contemplative experience of Christmas? -[3050.00 --> 3055.62] Let me put it this way. Some of us might say, you know, if our experience of Christmas, of the -[3055.62 --> 3062.22] celebrations and the decorations, if our experience of faith and the songs of faith and the movements -[3062.22 --> 3067.24] of worship together, if that all comes together to make me feel good, isn't that enough? -[3068.94 --> 3070.54] Isn't that the purpose of it anyway? -[3072.90 --> 3079.72] Does the historicity of the thing, and by that I mean does the historical rootedness of it, -[3080.44 --> 3081.34] make a difference? -[3083.10 --> 3087.96] I want to play with this idea by way of our introduction for a moment with you because -[3087.96 --> 3095.82] I think that it actually really does matter. And I think that the underlying assumption -[3095.82 --> 3101.02] that is there for most of us, not just around Christmas, but actually, like I've said, for -[3101.02 --> 3106.98] our entire relationship to faith and our entire experience of worship or church or God. -[3107.98 --> 3116.94] Right? How often do we make our feelings of things, our experience of them, the arbiter of how true they are? -[3117.96 --> 3119.28] Or how true they are for me? -[3121.12 --> 3127.38] Right? How often do we elevate our experience of something to the point of determining the value -[3127.38 --> 3128.40] of that thing? -[3130.32 --> 3135.82] Think about it, okay? There was, I know that this is true for me. There was a time in my life -[3135.82 --> 3145.84] where I would say, faith isn't real. Christianity isn't true, good, or beautiful because I don't -[3145.84 --> 3154.50] experience it that way. I don't feel anything, so there must be nothing to feel. Right? Or the common -[3154.50 --> 3163.74] teenager trope, I don't get anything out of it, so why bother? Right? In our minds, in our therapeutic -[3163.74 --> 3171.54] language and culture, we equate the truth of a thing with our experience of it, with the feelings that -[3171.54 --> 3179.34] are generated by it. Pardon the quip here, but it's an elevated form, sort of the idea that if it feels -[3179.34 --> 3184.72] good, do it. Right? And now, it's sort of become, if it makes you feel good, believe it. If it makes -[3184.72 --> 3189.72] you feel good, practice it. If it makes you feel good, love it. Right? And if it doesn't produce joy or -[3189.72 --> 3197.46] sentiment or feelings, leave it behind. Get rid of it. In a very real way, in our culture, we've sort of -[3197.46 --> 3203.96] Marie Kondo'd not just our living rooms, but our faith and religion and truth. -[3206.16 --> 3209.96] And let me be really clear, because some of you are hearing this and you're dismissing this as -[3209.96 --> 3216.80] something that other people do. Say, no, I am perfectly rational. You do it. All of you. -[3218.10 --> 3223.96] Everyone. Myself as well. The question for our reflection this morning isn't if we do this, -[3223.96 --> 3232.12] but in what way and to what degree. And as you think about your own life, think about this. -[3233.50 --> 3243.36] If the value or the truth of Christmas or of Christianity is determined by your pleasant -[3243.36 --> 3251.68] feelings about it or during it, what about the rest of us, like for whom Eric prayed this morning, -[3251.68 --> 3260.26] who don't feel pleasant right now. Right? For some of you, this is the first Christmas without mom. -[3261.66 --> 3267.62] Right? This is the first Christmas season without your husband. Many of us aren't going to see -[3267.62 --> 3272.54] family this year, whether because of COVID or floods and highway closures or new restrictions. -[3272.54 --> 3280.44] Some of us haven't seen brothers or sisters or sons or daughters in years because relationships -[3280.44 --> 3290.26] are broken. And Christmas is a reminder of that brokenness. What about then? What about when it's -[3290.26 --> 3296.46] not a holly jolly Christmas or when it's not the most wonderful time of the year? Is there still a truth -[3296.46 --> 3304.42] that matters even when we don't experience it or feel particularly appreciative of it? -[3306.76 --> 3311.70] Let's zoom out just a little bit here because you can even think about this sort of liturgically, -[3311.84 --> 3317.64] right? Liturgically is a word that we use to talk about the movements and the intentionality of our -[3317.64 --> 3325.58] worship together, the rhythms of worship. Think liturgically about this season. Why do so many of -[3325.58 --> 3332.52] us want to rush through Advent in order to get to Christmas? Right? We want to skip the come thou -[3332.52 --> 3340.70] long expected Jesus and get right to the joy to the world. The anxiety of waiting in darkness can be -[3340.70 --> 3348.36] uncomfortable and discouraging and awkward and hard. And so we jump straight to the peace on earth for -[3348.36 --> 3358.20] those on whom his favor rests. But again, thinking liturgically, right? Advent is there to form us -[3358.20 --> 3366.68] into the sort of people who can look through the darkness at the light to come, right? Advent, with its -[3366.68 --> 3373.48] anxiety and waiting and sense of longing, right, is not actually all that dissimilar to Holy Saturday. -[3373.48 --> 3380.04] You know what Holy Saturday is? Holy Saturday is that day that exists between the cross of Good Friday -[3380.04 --> 3388.82] and the empty tomb of Easter Sunday. That day where we are just waiting, not exactly sure what's going -[3388.82 --> 3398.14] to happen next. We're hope-filled, but we're also mourning, right? Advent, like Holy Saturday, is more -[3398.14 --> 3404.30] accurately for most of us the kind of season of life and faith that we spend most of our time in, -[3405.02 --> 3412.90] right? Zoom out in this picture to the whole drama of redemption, right? Where we are now waiting after -[3412.90 --> 3419.04] Jesus' first coming and waiting for his second. We are waiting between his resurrection and the -[3419.04 --> 3425.44] resurrection of all to incorruptible and imperishable. We are in the already, not yet. We are waiting in the -[3425.44 --> 3430.64] truth that Jesus has been exalted to the highest place and has been given the name that is above -[3430.64 --> 3439.14] every name, but still our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the powers and principalities -[3439.14 --> 3447.50] and the rulers of this dark age. In many ways, the season of Advent is our ordinary time, -[3447.50 --> 3457.22] and to endure in the waiting, to survive in the anxiety of the unknown. It matters that our faith -[3457.22 --> 3466.48] and that our experience of faith is based on more than just experience. Christmas specifically, -[3466.78 --> 3475.22] and Christianity more broadly, is based on more than particular sentimental feelings. Christmas, -[3475.22 --> 3482.90] Christianity, is rooted in history, and that's why it's true, and not just for me, and not just when -[3482.90 --> 3496.64] it feels true, but always, and for everyone. And so, getting the story right matters. Separating the history -[3496.64 --> 3504.74] from the hallmark matters. And our goal this season has been to un-hallmark Christmas because, -[3505.24 --> 3513.40] in reality, a hallmarked Christmas misses the point and will ultimately disappoint. A hallmarked, -[3513.40 --> 3519.74] sentimental Christmas and Christianity doesn't cut it. It won't stand up under the weight of the -[3519.74 --> 3526.60] oppression of the oppression of ordinary life. If you want a truth that lasts all year, it needs to be -[3526.60 --> 3532.74] one that actually took place. If you want a truth that will transform your life, it needs to be one that -[3532.74 --> 3543.62] is rooted in history. The merely sentimental fades away. The accurate and the historical changes you -[3543.62 --> 3554.66] because by it, God has changed history. So, as we come to this text and this story, know that this has been -[3554.66 --> 3564.28] Luke's precise point throughout. Luke understands this purpose, the necessity of seeing the gospel story -[3564.28 --> 3572.86] of Jesus as rooted in history and that the Christian faith as historically grounded. With your Bible -[3572.86 --> 3581.06] open, before we look at Luke 2, look at the first verses of Luke 1, the opening verses of Luke 1. -[3582.44 --> 3590.94] This is before the journey to Bethlehem and the inn and the manger, first opening verses. Luke gives this -[3590.94 --> 3597.54] introduction. He writes, many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled -[3597.54 --> 3605.26] among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants -[3605.26 --> 3612.72] of the word. With this in mind, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, -[3613.22 --> 3620.50] I too decided to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may know -[3620.50 --> 3630.92] the certainty of the things you have been taught. Luke says, many have undertaken. So, he's giving his -[3630.92 --> 3637.56] method there. He's saying, I have compared the statements. I have verified the truth. And Luke is -[3637.56 --> 3645.10] inviting you into the work of discernment, right? He is saying, there are ways to test and approve -[3645.10 --> 3653.46] what you will read here. So, do it. Do the work and you will see that this actually happened. -[3654.80 --> 3661.48] And he says that he has communicated with eyewitnesses and servants of the word, right? Luke did that work. -[3661.58 --> 3667.62] He talked to the eyewitnesses. He talked to people with firsthand experience and a commitment to the -[3667.62 --> 3674.76] accuracy of this revelation. And he recorded that for us. He, what did he say? Carefully investigated. -[3676.50 --> 3683.54] Luke, you've heard me say before, is no slouch. He is a doctor, a trained professional. He knows who to study -[3683.54 --> 3689.78] and how to study. He knows what it means to learn and to research and to fact check. He knows how to check his -[3689.78 --> 3696.70] sources. He would have had a standard of excellency and accuracy to the kind of work that he does. -[3696.70 --> 3701.90] And he does all of this work, all of this careful investigation, all of this interviewing -[3701.90 --> 3708.86] the eyewitnesses and looking at the multiple sources. He does it all so that you may know the -[3708.86 --> 3717.86] certainty of the things you have been taught. Luke wants you to know that this is a foundational truth. -[3718.56 --> 3726.68] In fact, that word that is translated certainty there in verse 4 is a word that is -[3726.68 --> 3735.34] used by the Greek translators of the Old Testament for Psalm 104 verse 5. Right? Psalm 104 verse 5 says, -[3735.48 --> 3743.84] he set the earth on its foundation. The same Greek word that's used. Right? This is a foundational -[3743.84 --> 3754.46] truth. It is rock solid. It is immovable. It actually happened. Luke's task is history. His method is -[3754.46 --> 3762.82] credible and his purpose is your assurance. Right? The certainty of your faith because it is rooted in -[3762.82 --> 3771.22] and founded upon. It is built on the foundation of history. Not on how you may or may not be feeling -[3771.22 --> 3777.32] right now or in a few moments when I shatter your picture of the nativity scene. -[3777.32 --> 3785.74] The historical purpose and credibility then of Luke is carried right into our text. -[3786.68 --> 3790.28] He opens chapter 2 by saying, -[3790.28 --> 3802.12] This is the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor. Right? This, again, -[3802.44 --> 3810.12] firmly roots us in history. Demonstrable, falsifiable, witnessed history. -[3810.12 --> 3820.70] The Roman emperor at this time is Caesar Augustus, also known as Octavian. Octavian took the name -[3820.70 --> 3830.56] Augustus and he ruled from 27 BC through AD 14. Octavian, as Caesar Augustus, is widely recognized -[3830.56 --> 3839.98] in history as one of the great administrative geniuses of history. Right? After his great uncle and -[3839.98 --> 3845.50] adoptive stepfather, a man by the name of Julius Caesar, you might have heard of him, after he died, -[3845.50 --> 3852.56] the empire is left in a political disarray and there are claimants to power from Egypt all the way around -[3852.56 --> 3859.18] the world. And Augustus, Octavian, pulls it all together into what we now call the Pax Romana, -[3859.32 --> 3868.24] the Peace of Rome. Quirinius is also another figure that we can verify from sources outside of the Bible. -[3868.24 --> 3874.02] In fact, we know that he was appointed over Syria and that the province of Judah, -[3874.40 --> 3883.38] will not officially part and included in his rule, was added later in order that he might exercise this -[3883.38 --> 3891.92] census, that he might begin to assert more dominant Roman control. Augustus tells Quirinius -[3891.92 --> 3898.94] that he wants to assess the region for taxes. And so Quirinius says, well, we need to do a census -[3898.94 --> 3910.06] in order to accomplish that. Again, history. We are rooted in history. And so, Joseph, who is pledged -[3910.06 --> 3920.56] to be married to Mary, goes back to his historical family hometown of Bethlehem, because that is David's -[3920.56 --> 3931.48] town and he is, as Luke writes, of the line and the family of David. And then we get this part of the -[3931.48 --> 3938.18] story and picture it in your mind as you hear it. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be -[3938.18 --> 3944.26] born and she gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in cloths, placed him in a manger, -[3944.38 --> 3950.72] because there was no guest room available for them. Now, if like me, you grew up with an older -[3950.72 --> 3956.40] translation of the Bible, you will remember that line as, because there was no room for them in the -[3956.40 --> 3966.10] inn. Thank you. And then your imagination takes over and it starts to fill in all sorts of details. -[3966.10 --> 3970.28] Now, notice, right, we started with what does the text say and what does the text not say. -[3970.54 --> 3976.16] We have two sentences in the story, but in your mind and in your imaginations, there's a whole movie -[3976.16 --> 3982.38] or countless movies to flush out the details. Right, what time is it in your mind? -[3984.12 --> 3993.88] It's nighttime, right? Mary is about to pop and Joseph is going from hotel to hotel down main street -[3993.88 --> 3998.64] of Bethlehem and the shop owners keep turning him away, saying, sorry, we're all booked out. The no -[3998.64 --> 4004.62] vacancy signs are hung. And finally, there's an innkeeper who takes pity on them and he says, oh, -[4004.62 --> 4010.14] I have a barn out back. Right, or just outside the village, maybe there's a cave that you can go stay -[4010.14 --> 4015.92] in. And so quickly, Mary and Joseph go, because Mary is giving birth. Jesus is crowning. -[4015.92 --> 4024.54] And she takes him and places him in a manger, an animal feeding trough. -[4026.08 --> 4031.70] And then, of course, Jesus sleeps quietly, right? No crying he makes because he wasn't really a human -[4031.70 --> 4039.10] baby. And then the shepherds show up in this random barn somewhere. And then you have the story. -[4040.00 --> 4044.20] Right, that's the one that we're familiar with. There's a little bit of intrigue. There's a little bit -[4044.20 --> 4050.84] of drama, not a lot of trauma. And it all fits nicely on the cover of a Christmas card, carved out -[4050.84 --> 4058.48] of wood, displayed on your mantle year after year after year. Now, like I said, in some versions of the -[4058.48 --> 4063.82] story, and this is becoming more popular now, you might hear that Jesus was born in a stable, but not -[4063.82 --> 4070.52] one made of wood, but actually it was a cave. Right, and while it is likely that stables outside of the -[4070.52 --> 4078.10] town were actually cut into caves, this itself is not the unhallmarked version of the story that I want -[4078.10 --> 4091.00] you to hear. So, first, think about this. From these two verses, with just the bare facts, right, that they -[4091.00 --> 4095.72] were there, the baby was ready to be born, and he was placed in a manger, that there was no room -[4095.72 --> 4103.50] in the inn or guest room. More on that in a moment. We have created a whole drama, and we have filled in -[4103.50 --> 4110.00] a lot of details to flush out the narrative. And honestly, like doing that, that we have done that, -[4110.06 --> 4116.86] that history and culture have done that, makes sense. Because we love good stories, and good stories -[4116.86 --> 4123.00] have drama and intrigue. Good stories have something to overcome, and they have a bit of a fool, who in this -[4123.00 --> 4127.42] case might be Joseph, because he should have prepared better, and they have a hero, who in this case, -[4127.50 --> 4138.92] obviously, is Jesus, because he's the Messiah. But you've got to ask, at the risk of changing a good -[4138.92 --> 4150.66] story, or unhallmarking Christmas, why this story, why this particular intrigue? And so, -[4150.66 --> 4163.90] dig with me for a moment into this text, and this story. I want to start with that word. We'll start -[4163.90 --> 4171.16] at the end in verse 7. There was no guest room available for them, right? No inn available. -[4172.50 --> 4178.10] And in the Bible, like all literature, right, when you want to understand what a word means, -[4178.10 --> 4183.50] you look at the other places that that word is used. Now, the word that's used here, and you don't -[4183.50 --> 4190.02] have to remember this, but in Greek, it's katalumati, it means guest room. The only other place that the -[4190.02 --> 4198.20] word is used is actually by Jesus, when he sends his disciples into Jerusalem, looking for a room which -[4198.20 --> 4203.82] he can celebrate the Passover in, with his disciples, right? That final day before his crucifixion. -[4203.82 --> 4210.78] In both Luke and Mark, where that story is told, the same word is used, and again, in both places, -[4211.10 --> 4217.46] they offer a meaning of that word. So, he says, go look for a guest room wherein we can celebrate -[4217.46 --> 4225.32] the Passover, and there you will find an upper room, right? It defines it for us as an upper room. -[4225.32 --> 4234.02] I want to suggest to you that it's this same sense that Luke is using the word in for the Christmas -[4234.02 --> 4240.78] story. Now, maybe it's not an upper room, but it is a guest room, right, or a prophet's room -[4240.78 --> 4248.62] attached to the main living area of a house in Bethlehem. I'm going to give you three reasons why -[4248.62 --> 4254.74] I think this is so, two from the text itself, and then one from the architecture and the structure -[4254.74 --> 4261.36] of family and homes that we know from that day, from the archaeological evidence. The first one, -[4261.98 --> 4266.66] the first argument for this, and in favor of what I think is the right way to understand it, -[4266.98 --> 4272.98] comes from the text. The only other time this word is used is regarding this sort of -[4272.98 --> 4280.52] second story upper room or a guest room. Now, sometimes this room was called a prophet's -[4280.52 --> 4286.86] chamber. Now, that comes out of the story of Elijah raising back to life the son of the widow -[4286.86 --> 4292.86] at Zarephath, right, in the upper room where he was staying. That's 1 Kings 17, 19. -[4294.48 --> 4302.74] In fact, if Luke meant an inn, like a public accommodation house with multiple rooms, -[4302.98 --> 4309.08] there is a word for that in Greek. Maybe you remember the story of the Good Samaritan, -[4309.58 --> 4316.40] right, that Jesus tells. Luke writes that the Good Samaritan took the injured man to an inn -[4316.40 --> 4324.14] where he paid the innkeeper to care for him until he returned. The word that Luke uses in that story -[4324.14 --> 4332.42] that Jesus tells is different than the word that Luke uses here. Because he doesn't use that word, -[4332.98 --> 4338.12] I think it's probable that he does use a word with intentionality. -[4340.08 --> 4347.98] Two, from the text again, there is a small possibility that within the meaning of this word -[4347.98 --> 4355.30] that Luke can mean a sort of crude shelter for animals or people. And that might be what you -[4355.30 --> 4361.18] imagine in your hallmark version of the story. The problem with that is, even if that's what it does -[4361.18 --> 4368.52] mean, is that Luke says there's no room for them in that place. Right, that the crude stable or stall, -[4368.92 --> 4373.84] the cave, and we'll come back to that again, right, is precisely where there is no room. -[4375.54 --> 4381.82] And so it begs the question, where did they go? Where was their room? -[4381.82 --> 4389.34] And that's the third point, the point from architecture and archaeology. And for a lot of -[4389.34 --> 4396.06] this, I'm summarizing the work of a scholar named Kenneth Bailey. If you're interested in this or want -[4396.06 --> 4400.50] to follow up more, I can send you a copy of his chapter on this. It was really helpful to me. It's a -[4400.50 --> 4410.06] fascinating read. First of all, notice that Luke makes a very precise point of saying that Joseph -[4410.06 --> 4422.24] belongs to the house and the line of David. Right, he repeats there. Not just the house, right, this isn't -[4422.24 --> 4432.80] just his hometown, but he's also in the line of the king. He is coming to the town of David. Now, that's -[4432.80 --> 4440.30] important because Jerusalem, right, a few kilometers away from Bethlehem, Jerusalem, especially the old -[4440.30 --> 4448.20] city, is often called the city of David because it was David who first conquered that city. But it is -[4448.20 --> 4455.72] Bethlehem where David is from. His roots go there. And so scholars have suggested that Bethlehem being -[4455.72 --> 4463.36] called the town of David is a sort of a colloquialism. It's a local phrase that everyone who lived there -[4463.36 --> 4469.34] would know and they would use and they would wear it as a badge of honor because they are connected to -[4469.34 --> 4478.12] Israel's greatest king. And so Joseph of the house and the line of David is coming back to the -[4478.12 --> 4485.36] town of David. Now, in the Middle East and in the ancient Near East, Palestine and Jewish culture, no -[4485.36 --> 4494.32] exception to this, family history and lineage mattered, right? There's a reason why both Luke and Matthew -[4494.32 --> 4503.50] include a genealogy. In reality, a man like Joseph would have shown up in Bethlehem and he would have said, -[4503.50 --> 4511.28] I am Joseph, son of Heli, son of Methat, son of Levi, and because of the hospitality culture of that day, -[4511.58 --> 4514.64] most every single home would have opened up to him. -[4517.86 --> 4529.18] Also, in just about every culture, but especially in Jewish cultures, a woman about to give birth is given -[4529.18 --> 4536.02] special attention, right? She's cared for. And so in smaller towns and in rural communities like -[4536.02 --> 4543.38] Bethlehem, a midwife or a whole group of women would come and they would assist someone who is in labor, -[4544.46 --> 4548.10] right? Someone who is about to give birth. Bailey concludes, -[4548.10 --> 4553.88] that surely the whole community would have sensed its responsibility to help Joseph find -[4553.88 --> 4560.72] adequate shelter for Mary and provide the care she needed. To turn away a descendant of David in the -[4560.72 --> 4566.16] city of David would be an unspeakable shame on the entire village. -[4568.16 --> 4573.60] Finally, notice what the text actually says. Verse 4, -[4574.66 --> 4581.44] So Joseph went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem, to the town of David, -[4581.44 --> 4586.42] because he belonged to the house and the line of David. He went there to register with Mary, -[4586.56 --> 4593.62] who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, -[4594.74 --> 4602.10] the time came for the baby to be born. There's no urgency in that story. There's no emergency -[4602.10 --> 4608.72] in that line, right? There's no innkeeper. There's no rush to accept this improvised place to stay -[4608.72 --> 4617.04] because Jesus is already crowning. It's just not there. Instead, I want to suggest to you that Jesus, -[4619.04 --> 4627.92] like every other boy or girl in that day, was born in a home surrounded by a community of women -[4627.92 --> 4632.30] who cared for him and provided for Mary in her state of need. -[4635.24 --> 4640.90] But what about the animals, you say? Right? There are animals present. Are there? -[4642.48 --> 4649.22] I mean, the text says that she placed him in a manger, and yes, that word manger can mean a feeding -[4649.22 --> 4656.04] crib or an animal stall. That's absolutely true, right? And a feeding crib or stall for larger animals, -[4656.04 --> 4661.00] like donkeys or cows, if you manage to have one of those. But again, the story itself, the text itself -[4661.00 --> 4666.80] doesn't say anything about those animals. But here, I have an image to show you. -[4667.92 --> 4677.20] That in the design of a standard village home in Palestine, the stable is part of the main house. -[4678.14 --> 4679.52] Can we get that first one on screen? -[4679.52 --> 4689.40] So, what you see here on the top is a side cut, and then on the bottom is an overview. Now, the text -[4689.40 --> 4698.66] might be hard to read for you, but I will explain it as we go. The main room was a family room where -[4698.66 --> 4705.24] everyone lived and cooked, if that wasn't happening outside, and where everyone slept, right? These are -[4705.24 --> 4714.54] one-room houses. And the end of the room, to your left here, has a door, and is usually lowered down -[4714.54 --> 4722.34] by about three or four feet from the elevated floor of the main living area. That lowered area where the -[4722.34 --> 4731.00] door is, is where the family's animals, at the end of the day, would come into the house. They would be -[4731.00 --> 4737.54] brought in to the house at the end of the night, at the end of the day, sorry. And then the next -[4737.54 --> 4741.14] morning, they would be ushered outside, and then the stalls would be swept and cleaned, -[4741.72 --> 4748.76] and then they would do it again, right? And in that raised floor, where you see those few steps going -[4748.76 --> 4756.30] up, in that raised floor, there would be mangers or feeding troughs for the animals to walk up to -[4756.30 --> 4762.64] and just casually eat out of. Sometimes those troughs would be cut out of the stone in the floor. -[4762.80 --> 4769.84] Sometimes they would be made of wood or some other material in order to hold that. But again, -[4770.34 --> 4776.00] especially in winter, right, you want your animals brought into the house at night, the house where -[4776.00 --> 4784.10] you live and sleep because of the heat that they give off, right? Because of what they naturally produce -[4784.10 --> 4790.00] for all of its sense, keeps the house warm. And then look at the next image. -[4793.16 --> 4801.68] This is the same idea, but now you have a guest room added on, or an inn, right? If a family -[4801.68 --> 4809.14] was wealthy enough or a house was large enough and it had a guest room, the kataluma, right? It was -[4809.14 --> 4816.90] either built on the end of it or as a second story on top. And so, because there was no room in the -[4816.90 --> 4823.00] guest room, presumably because there was already people staying there, where did Mary and Joseph -[4823.00 --> 4833.26] stay and give birth? In the main house with the rest of the family and likely a community of women -[4833.26 --> 4840.10] women to help them and to encourage them. And I don't know about you, but regardless of what time -[4840.10 --> 4846.16] of day it is, if you are that woman giving birth, you probably say, hey, for the next couple hours, -[4846.24 --> 4852.18] do you mind if we just move the cows outside? So maybe there were no animals present. There's a possibility, -[4852.18 --> 4853.90] but not a necessity. -[4857.62 --> 4867.78] So, hearing this, you're now wondering, well, if this is all true, where do our stories come from? -[4869.00 --> 4873.62] Why are the hallmarked versions of these stories so ubiquitous? Why are they everywhere present -[4873.62 --> 4881.90] in our culture? And that is the right question to be asking. You can take that image off. If you're -[4881.90 --> 4885.70] interested in those images, they come from Bailey's book. So, again, another plug for him. -[4887.48 --> 4894.60] Around the year 200 AD, there is a little story written called, some of you have heard about this, -[4894.60 --> 4902.90] the Gospel of Thomas. It's written by a Christian, but not a Jewish Christian. The author isn't familiar -[4902.90 --> 4908.92] with Palestinian geography or with Jewish traditions or customs. This story has come to be called the -[4908.92 --> 4916.96] Gospel of James, not because James, the brother of Jesus, wrote it, but because there's a tradition -[4916.96 --> 4922.24] in these Gnostic Gospels to use the name of someone who is recognizable in order to give the story more -[4922.24 --> 4929.88] credence in the culture around them. Part of the Gospel of James tells the story, retells the story of the -[4929.88 --> 4937.56] birth of Jesus. And in that version of the story, Mary and Joseph arrive to Bethlehem late at night. -[4938.10 --> 4943.10] And Mary tells Joseph, and hear this, she says, take me down from the donkey for the child within me -[4943.10 --> 4950.46] presses on me to come forth. And so Joseph takes Mary down and he leaves her in a cave outside the -[4950.46 --> 4957.00] city of Bethlehem and he rushes into the city to go get help. And then Joseph returns with a midwife, -[4957.00 --> 4964.58] but in this Gospel of James story, Mary has already given birth to Jesus. And the story goes on into -[4964.58 --> 4972.20] some pretty incredible stuff about Mary and angels and her perpetual virginity and little miracles that -[4972.20 --> 4981.58] happen there. But interestingly, the Gospel of James is never accepted as true or as inspired or as -[4981.58 --> 4989.62] anything more than a story. And as early as the fourth century, Pope Innocent I condemned it as a -[4989.62 --> 4998.30] heresy, right? It is fully rejected by the Galatian decree in 500 AD. And yet, as Bailey concludes in his -[4998.30 --> 5005.68] book, the average Christian who has never heard of this book is nonetheless unconsciously influenced by it. -[5005.68 --> 5011.92] Now, not only this, because there has to be more than one reason why this persists. -[5013.12 --> 5018.22] Again, in the second century, you have Justin Martyr, who is an early Christian church leader. -[5019.30 --> 5026.84] He also says that Jesus was born in a cave outside of Bethlehem and that tradition is born. In the third -[5026.84 --> 5034.04] century or fourth century, Saint Helena, who is the mother of Constantine I, if that means anything to -[5034.04 --> 5040.36] you, she decides that there's going to build a church on this site of the cave that Justin Martyr -[5040.36 --> 5047.72] identified. And then the Church of the Nativity is founded. And in its new form, the Church of the -[5047.72 --> 5053.20] Nativity has existed on that spot up until today. If you go to Bethlehem now, you can visit the Church of -[5053.20 --> 5058.26] the Nativity that is built on the site of this cave. The Church was destroyed in the 6th century, -[5058.36 --> 5068.56] but then rebuilt, and it exists now in that space. Finally, by the 12th century, you have Saint Francis -[5068.56 --> 5074.60] of Assisi, right? The name of the current Pope, the namesake of the current Pope. He's credited with -[5074.60 --> 5080.90] creating the first nativity scene, right? With creating the first picture that's almost exactly the -[5080.90 --> 5093.00] same as the one that you are familiar with today. And so over the course of history, this story was -[5093.00 --> 5102.60] shaped and added to and tweaked and changed. But as I hope you have seen, when we look at the text, -[5103.34 --> 5109.12] when we look at the archaeological evidence, it just isn't right. The truth of the story is that Jesus' -[5109.12 --> 5121.02] birth is perfectly ordinary, and yet angels proclaim Him. His birth is perfectly ordinary, and yet for -[5121.02 --> 5128.96] some reason, shepherds praise Him. His birth was the same as countless others who had come before Him -[5128.96 --> 5138.04] and come after Him, and the whole town is amazed. That's the miracle of Christmas, right? He enters the -[5138.04 --> 5143.36] perfectly ordinary in the same way in the same way as countless of kids before Him, and yet there is -[5143.36 --> 5153.66] something extraordinary about Him, right? He is the extraordinary one, even if His story starts out just -[5153.66 --> 5154.48] ordinary. -[5158.48 --> 5167.66] God is in the mundane. He's in the everyday, right? God is available in the meanest worth, -[5167.66 --> 5173.42] as we sing, as we sing, and He's also available in the just average, in the normal. -[5174.78 --> 5183.22] It is the Christ child who is extraordinary. And so this year, don't miss Jesus for the hallmarked version -[5183.22 --> 5194.64] of the story. History matters, because if this story is real, and I believe it is, right, then the other stories -[5194.64 --> 5203.68] are real. And if the other stories in the gospel are true, then the tomb is empty. And if the tomb is empty, -[5203.68 --> 5214.42] that changes everything. The tomb being empty changes Christmas. And that changes you. -[5214.42 --> 5222.58] It's not the hallmarked version of the story that has power. It is the historical version of the story -[5222.58 --> 5233.20] that changed the world. That is what we celebrate this Christmas. Amen? Amen. Let me pray with you. -[5233.20 --> 5262.40] Come, thou long-expected Jesus. Come into the utterly ordinary. Come into the mundane of our lives. -[5263.20 --> 5275.76] Come into the normal as extraordinary. Come into our lives and our world as the object of our affection, -[5276.20 --> 5285.60] our attention, our worth and praise. Come into our lives today as you have come into the world in history. -[5285.60 --> 5291.20] Come now in the spirit that we might know you, the real you, more. -[5293.20 --> 5299.52] Fill us with your truth. Fill us with your truth. That no matter how we might feel today, -[5299.52 --> 5307.38] we would rest on the firm foundation, the certitude of your gospel. -[5309.94 --> 5315.30] We pray this, Jesus, in your holy, holy name. Amen. -[5323.20 --> 5346.20] Lord, my soul is to this place. -[5346.20 --> 5353.20] Truly my hope is in you. -[5353.20 --> 5359.92] Lord of light, our only hope of glory. -[5359.92 --> 5366.72] Your radiance shines in all who look to you. -[5366.72 --> 5373.68] Come light the hearts of all in dark and shadow. -[5373.68 --> 5384.68] You, O Lord, my soul in stillness waves. -[5384.68 --> 5390.68] Truly my hope is in you. -[5390.68 --> 5398.68] O spring of joy, rain down upon our spirits. -[5398.68 --> 5404.68] Our thirsty hearts are yearning for your word. -[5404.68 --> 5408.68] Come make us whole, come make us whole. -[5408.68 --> 5412.68] Be comfort to our hearts. -[5415.68 --> 5422.68] For you, O Lord, my soul in stillness waves. -[5422.68 --> 5429.68] Truly my hope is in you. -[5429.68 --> 5436.68] O root of life, we plant your seed within us. -[5436.68 --> 5442.68] And in your advent, draw us all to you. -[5442.68 --> 5443.68] Our hope, we plant your seed within us. -[5443.68 --> 5444.68] Our hope, we plant your seed within us. -[5444.68 --> 5445.68] Our hope, we plant your seed within us. -[5445.68 --> 5446.68] We plant your seed within us. -[5446.68 --> 5449.68] For you, O Lord, my soul in stillness waves. -[5449.68 --> 5450.68] Truly my hope is in you. -[5450.68 --> 5462.68] For you, O Lord, my soul in stillness waves. -[5462.68 --> 5467.68] Truly my hope is in you. -[5467.68 --> 5474.68] O key of knowledge, guide us in our pilgrimage. -[5474.68 --> 5480.68] We ever seek, yet unfulfilled remain. -[5480.68 --> 5488.68] Open to us the pathway of your peace. -[5488.68 --> 5500.68] For you, O Lord, my soul in stillness waves. -[5500.68 --> 5507.68] Truly my hope is in you. -[5507.68 --> 5526.68] As you go this week, know that God himself, in the truth of his work and action in history, goes with you. -[5526.68 --> 5531.68] Continue to work and act in your histories. -[5531.68 --> 5536.68] God goes with you, and so receive his blessing. -[5536.68 --> 5539.68] May God go before you, to lead you. -[5539.68 --> 5542.68] May God go behind you, to guard you. -[5542.68 --> 5545.68] May God go beneath you, to support you. -[5545.68 --> 5548.68] And may God go beside you, to befriend you. -[5548.68 --> 5551.68] Do not be afraid. -[5551.68 --> 5553.68] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5553.68 --> 5560.68] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5560.68 --> 5562.68] Amen. -[5566.68 --> 5567.68] Amen. -[5567.68 --> 5569.68] . -[5569.68 --> 5578.68] 0 -[5596.68 --> 5602.64] Fill the skies with their wondrous song -[5602.64 --> 5609.56] Awakening earth with news of his birth -[5609.56 --> 5616.90] Join the hymn of the highest heaven song -[5616.90 --> 5622.44] As the world fought the song of the angels -[5622.44 --> 5630.94] Heavenly music is drowned by a warring world -[5630.94 --> 5637.80] Yet hope burns a light that shatters the night -[5637.80 --> 5643.58] Turn your heart to the call of glory -[5643.58 --> 5650.62] Glory to God in the highest -[5650.62 --> 5657.12] Peace to men on earth -[5657.12 --> 5664.12] Come and adore him with wonder -[5664.12 --> 5671.12] Christ, Lord of heaven and earth -[5671.12 --> 5676.62] There is a day of creation -[5676.62 --> 5683.62] As long for when all of time has been spent -[5683.62 --> 5687.62] And the Lord returns -[5687.62 --> 5690.62] His song will repeat -[5690.62 --> 5694.12] As heaven completes -[5694.12 --> 5696.12] Promise peace -[5696.12 --> 5700.62] Peace that will fund the nations -[5700.62 --> 5707.12] Glory to God in the highest -[5707.12 --> 5713.62] Peace to men on earth -[5713.62 --> 5720.12] Peace to men on earth -[5720.12 --> 5726.62] Peace to men on earth -[5726.62 --> 5733.12] Peace to men on earth -[5733.12 --> 5739.62] Peace to men on earth -[5739.62 --> 5743.62] Peace to men on earth -[5743.62 --> 5745.62] Peace to men on earth -[5745.62 --> 5750.62] Come and adore him with wonder -[5750.62 --> 5757.12] Christ, Lord of heaven and earth -[5757.12 --> 5758.62] Peace to men on earth -[5758.62 --> 5763.62] Peace to men on earth -[5763.62 --> 5766.22] Peace to men on earth -[5766.22 --> 5768.12] Peace to men on earth -[5768.12 --> 5769.12] Peace to men on earth -[5769.12 --> 5770.12] Peace to men on earth -[5770.12 --> 5770.62] Peace to men on earth -[5770.62 --> 5774.12] Peace to men on earth -[5774.12 --> 5777.06] Peace to men on earth -[5777.06 --> 5807.04] Thank you. -[5807.06 --> 5837.04] Thank you. -[5837.06 --> 5867.04] Thank you. -[5867.06 --> 5897.04] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - December 26, 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - December 26, 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3e8264f89e8ac94d7fe53a9f67ece8812ed88110..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - December 26, 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,62 +0,0 @@ -• Worship and prayer -• God's presence and blessing -• Praise to God -• Thanksgiving and gratitude -• The greatness of God -• The uniqueness of God -• The majesty and power of God -• Worshiping the holy God -• Glorifying God's name -• Worship and adoration of God -• Praise for Jesus' love and sacrifice -• Confession of sin and need for forgiveness -• Offering and giving to support local ministries and expenses -• Surrendering one's heart, soul, and life to God's will -• Repeated expression of love and devotion to Jesus -• Children's worship time and transition from kids' activities -• Haley graduating into "big kid" status -• Prayers for the kids as they participate in children's worship -• The children's blessing ritual, including a prayer and hand gesture -• Church family prayer led by an individual -• Reminder about financial giving to the church -• Prayer for the community, including those who are unable to celebrate due to various circumstances -• Christmas holiday season has been impacted by COVID cases rising exponentially, leading to frustration and fatigue -• God is calling for love, compassion, and empathy amidst difficult circumstances -• Fear should not dictate responses, but rather love and a desire to serve others -• Prayers are offered for church members with COVID, healthcare workers, and those dealing with health concerns or loss -• Gratitude is expressed for the opportunity to gather as a church community and for volunteers and leaders who make ministry possible -• Prayer is requested for provision and support for families affected by fire and other needs -• The speaker leads a prayer for Josh, asking for his needs to be met and thanking God for preparations in Josh's life. -• Discussion of opening the Bible to Luke 2:41-52, which is about Jesus as a child. -• Explanation of why this story is unique because it is one of the few times that Jesus is depicted outside of infancy or as an adult. -• Summary of Luke 2:41-52, where Jesus stays behind in Jerusalem and is found in the temple, impressing teachers with his understanding and answers. -• Reflection on how this story seems "weird" and contrary to expectations of the Messiah's role. -• Discussion of the contrast between the grand entrance of Jesus' birth and the 12 years of nothing that follows, with no further mention of his divine nature or power. -• Jesus' normal human life is not described in the Bible -• The age of 12 is significant in Jewish culture, marking a transitional period from childhood to adulthood -• At 13, boys would typically celebrate their bar mitzvah and take on full responsibility under Jewish law -• This period is similar to modern transitions, such as graduating high school or turning 18 in Canada -• Jesus' family's trip to Jerusalem for the Passover was a chance for Joseph to prepare him for adult responsibilities and shape his identity -• Transition moments in life -• Jesus' transition moment as a child -• Mary and Joseph searching for Jesus in Jerusalem -• Finding Jesus at the temple, listening to teachers of the law -• Jesus' response to his parents, saying he was supposed to be there -• Jesus' transition from childhood to adulthood as the Messiah -• Importance of knowing one's identity and purpose in life -• Jesus' relationship with God as his Father -• Jesus' obedience to God's will, even unto death -• Jesus' life as a model for transformation into children of God -• Discussion of the identity of Christ and its implications for believers -• Exploration of the contrast between living a life dedicated to pleasing oneself versus following God's will -• Description of the "I must" mentality as limiting and restrictive -• Introduction to the concept of living in one's father's house and being about their business -• Discussion of relying on God's voice and guidance through scripture, pastors, teachers, and loved ones -• Emphasis on living out normal lives rather than striving for perfection -• Reflections on navigating transition moments with peace and confidence as children of God -• Declaration of dependence on Christ -• Acknowledgment of God's payment for sins and debt -• Expression of trust in God's salvation and sovereignty -• Recognition of belonging to God, body and soul -• Affirmation of devotion to Christ as Lord -• Gratitude for eternal life through the Holy Spirit \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - December 26, 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - December 26, 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 02d9f39e06917c016964a2ab7f3c037224daeed2..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - December 26, 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,889 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[209.98 --> 239.96] Thank you. -[239.96 --> 269.94] Thank you. -[269.96 --> 271.96] Thank you. -[300.86 --> 314.08] We come to worship our God and invite you as you're able and where you are, even if you're at home, maybe to stand or to just take a posture of receipt that we might receive God's greeting as we gather together. -[314.08 --> 316.08] God is in this place. -[316.08 --> 324.08] God is in this place and we mark that with these words from Him spoken over you. -[324.08 --> 354.08] Thank you, God is in this place, grace, and peace, and peace, and peace to you. -[354.08 --> 356.08] God is in this place. -[356.08 --> 359.26] God is gracious and grace, and God is gracious and merciful, full of compassion and love. -[359.26 --> 362.26] While we stand hayır with you, our people, if you are having a sin, amen, man, is heavy and can you and we're amidst you and are and we're holding estábite and healing and we're living together. -[362.26 --> 364.56] God's grace to hear thou from us. -[364.76 --> 367.26] God and I maykan thi nas lee and keep us safe and self. -[367.26 --> 368.26] God is merciful to human. -[368.26 --> 390.30] Come now, fount of every blessing -[390.30 --> 395.60] To my heart may sing thy grace -[395.60 --> 401.24] Streams of mercy never ceasing -[401.24 --> 406.68] Calls for songs of loudest praise -[406.68 --> 412.18] Teach me some of the lotus sonnet -[412.18 --> 417.42] Sung by flaming tongues above -[417.42 --> 423.00] Praise the mountain fixed upon it -[423.00 --> 428.64] Mount of thy redeeming love -[428.64 --> 441.58] Here I raise my Ebenezer -[441.58 --> 446.72] Ever by thy help I come -[446.72 --> 452.36] And I hope by thy good measure -[452.36 --> 457.22] Safely to arrive at home -[457.22 --> 462.78] Jesus saw me when a stranger -[462.78 --> 468.14] Wandering from the fold of God -[468.14 --> 473.44] He to rescue me from danger -[473.44 --> 478.64] Interposed his precious blood -[478.64 --> 490.66] Oh, how grace, how great -[490.66 --> 497.12] I'm constrained to thee -[497.12 --> 502.76] Let thy goodness like a fetter -[502.76 --> 508.70] Mind my wandering heart to thee -[508.70 --> 514.58] Oh, to wander, Lord, I feel it -[514.58 --> 519.74] Proud to leave the God I love -[519.74 --> 525.34] Here's my heart, Lord, take and seal it -[525.34 --> 529.24] Seal it for thy courts -[529.24 --> 533.72] Above all else -[533.72 --> 539.66] I adore your name -[539.66 --> 544.70] Above all else -[544.70 --> 550.56] Tune my heart to sing your praise -[550.56 --> 551.56] Above all else -[551.56 --> 555.56] Above all else -[555.56 --> 557.56] I adore your name -[557.56 --> 565.56] Above all else -[565.56 --> 571.56] Tune my heart to sing your praise -[571.56 --> 578.56] Above all else -[578.56 --> 580.56] Above all else -[580.56 --> 580.58] Above all else -[580.58 --> 582.56] Above all else -[582.56 --> 584.18] Tune my heart to sing your praise -[584.18 --> 587.04] Above all else -[587.04 --> 587.96] I adore your name -[587.96 --> 590.62] Above all else -[590.62 --> 593.28] To sing your praise. -[594.36 --> 603.54] Above all else, I adore your name. -[604.60 --> 611.04] Above all else, to my heart. -[611.04 --> 613.90] To sing your praise. -[614.32 --> 619.00] The highest praise, the proudest praise. -[619.00 --> 624.02] To the name of all, every name. -[649.00 --> 654.02] To sing your praise. -[654.02 --> 658.02] To sing your praise. -[658.02 --> 663.04] To sing your praise. -[663.04 --> 668.06] To sing your praise. -[668.06 --> 673.08] To sing your praise. -[673.08 --> 683.60] Who else commands all the hosts of heaven? -[684.10 --> 689.74] Who else could make every king bow down? -[689.74 --> 696.02] Who else can whisper and darkness trembles? -[696.76 --> 700.24] Only a holy God. -[700.24 --> 708.26] What other beauty demands such praises? -[708.26 --> 713.76] What other splendor outshines the sun? -[713.76 --> 719.38] What other majesty rules with justice? -[719.38 --> 721.40] Who else can be? -[721.40 --> 724.40] Who else can be? -[724.40 --> 729.42] Who else can be? -[729.42 --> 731.42] Come and behold him. -[731.42 --> 736.42] The one and the only. -[736.42 --> 740.42] Cry and sing holy. -[740.42 --> 744.42] Forever a holy God. -[744.42 --> 749.44] Come and worship the holy God. -[749.44 --> 750.44] Come and worship the holy God. -[750.44 --> 752.44] Come and worship the holy God. -[752.44 --> 760.46] Come and worship the holy God. -[760.46 --> 764.88] What other glory consumes like fire? -[764.88 --> 770.46] What other power can raise the dead? -[770.46 --> 776.46] What other name remains undefeated? -[776.46 --> 784.48] Hearted up being Watchers from heaven and life бывает -[784.48 --> 784.50] machine learning desires -[784.50 --> 785.98] What other glorybuds do? -[785.98 --> 788.62] What other grituge Lyman saiyama is -[788.62 --> 789.62] What other Rép bonne sindfeated? -[789.66 --> 789.88] What other banks diabos do? -[789.88 --> 794.16] What other nursery neglected sizableituppa pentru che議培 -[794.16 --> 807.16] I am, sing holy, forever a holy God. Come and worship the Holy God. -[807.16 --> 830.16] Come and behold Him, the one and the only. I am, sing holy, forever a holy God. Come and worship the Holy God. -[837.16 --> 861.80] Who else could rescue me from my failings? Who else could offer His only Son? -[861.80 --> 872.86] Who else invites me to call Him Father? Only a holy God. -[874.02 --> 877.80] Only my holy God. -[877.80 --> 897.80] Come and behold Him, the one and the only. I am, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[897.80 --> 902.80] Come and worship the Holy God. -[903.80 --> 912.80] Come and behold Him, the one and the only. -[912.80 --> 921.80] Cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[921.80 --> 927.80] Come and worship the Holy God. -[927.80 --> 946.36] We come, Lord, and behold you, the one and the only, our joy and our salvation, who came to this ordinary world to save us. -[946.36 --> 955.06] We confess our need for you, Lord Jesus, our need for cleansing, our need for forgiveness, for your mercy. -[956.22 --> 959.38] For thee, all the follies of sin, we resign. -[960.32 --> 963.24] In our Savior's name we pray. Amen. -[963.24 --> 963.36] Amen. -[963.36 --> 963.44] Amen. -[976.36 --> 1004.14] My Jesus, I love thee, I know thou art mine. -[1004.14 --> 1016.54] For Thee all the fallings of sin I resign. -[1016.54 --> 1029.20] My gracious Redeemer, my Savior on Thine. -[1029.20 --> 1041.58] If ever I love Thee, my Jesus, His love. -[1041.58 --> 1054.36] I love Thee because He has first loved me. -[1054.36 --> 1066.36] And purchased my pardon on Calvary's tree. -[1066.36 --> 1078.36] I love Thee for wearing the thorns on Thy brow. -[1078.36 --> 1091.36] If ever I love Thee, my Jesus, His love. -[1091.36 --> 1105.08] I love Thee in life, I will love Thee in death. -[1105.08 --> 1117.08] And praise Thee as long as Thou lendest me breath. -[1117.08 --> 1130.80] And say, when Thou death do, Thy scold on my brow. -[1130.80 --> 1142.80] If ever I love Thee, my Jesus, His love. -[1142.80 --> 1156.80] In mansions of glory and endless divine. -[1156.80 --> 1160.80] If ever I adore Thee, my Jesus, His love. -[1160.80 --> 1164.80] If ever I adore Thee, my Jesus, His love. -[1164.80 --> 1168.80] If ever I adore Thee, my Jesus, His love. -[1168.80 --> 1170.80] I'll sing with the grace. -[1170.80 --> 1178.80] If ever I adore Thee, my Jesus, His love. -[1178.80 --> 1181.80] If ever I adore Thee, my Jesus, His love. -[1181.80 --> 1187.80] If ever I adore Thee, my Jesus, His love. -[1187.80 --> 1192.80] If ever I adore Thee, my Jesus, His love. -[1192.80 --> 1198.80] If ever I adore Thee, my Jesus, His love. -[1198.80 --> 1212.80] If ever I adore Thee, my Jesus, His love. -[1212.80 --> 1220.80] If ever I adore Thee, my Jesus, His love. -[1220.80 --> 1222.80] You may have a sing. -[1242.80 --> 1247.80] Today's offering is for the budget. -[1247.80 --> 1266.80] It supports all our local ministries and expenses, as well as the causes that we support outside of our local community. -[1266.80 --> 1272.80] I think we're all aware of our current shortfall and ask that you prayerfully give. -[1272.80 --> 1274.80] Thank you. -[1274.80 --> 1280.80] Thank you. -[1280.80 --> 1308.08] This is my desire. -[1310.80 --> 1315.80] To honor You. -[1317.80 --> 1325.80] Lord, we know that I worship You. -[1325.80 --> 1340.80] All I have in You, I give You grace. -[1340.80 --> 1349.80] All I adore is in You. -[1349.80 --> 1354.80] All I have in You. -[1355.80 --> 1358.80] Lord, I give You my heart. -[1359.80 --> 1363.80] I give You my soul. -[1364.80 --> 1368.80] I live for You alone. -[1368.80 --> 1371.80] Every breath that I take. -[1372.80 --> 1375.80] Every moment I'm aware. -[1376.80 --> 1380.80] I'll have Your way. -[1380.80 --> 1383.80] I give You my heart. -[1386.80 --> 1391.80] This is my desire. -[1392.80 --> 1398.80] To honor You. -[1398.80 --> 1401.80] Lord, I love you. -[1401.80 --> 1403.80] Lord, I love you. -[1403.80 --> 1407.80] I worship You. -[1407.80 --> 1412.80] I love you. -[1412.80 --> 1413.80] I love you. -[1413.80 --> 1415.80] I love you. -[1415.80 --> 1417.80] I love you. -[1417.80 --> 1418.80] I love you. -[1418.80 --> 1419.80] I love you. -[1419.80 --> 1426.80] I love you. -[1426.80 --> 1429.80] Lord, I give You my heart. -[1429.80 --> 1433.80] Is it you? -[1438.80 --> 1442.80] Lord, I give you my heart -[1442.80 --> 1446.80] I give you my soul -[1446.80 --> 1451.80] I'll live for you alone -[1451.80 --> 1455.80] Every breath that I serve -[1455.80 --> 1458.80] Every moment I live away -[1458.80 --> 1468.80] Lord, I give you my heart -[1468.80 --> 1472.80] I give you my soul -[1472.80 --> 1477.80] I'll live for you alone -[1477.80 --> 1481.80] Every breath that I serve -[1481.80 --> 1485.80] Every moment I'm aware -[1485.80 --> 1489.80] I have no way -[1489.80 --> 1493.80] I have no way -[1493.80 --> 1497.80] I have no way -[1497.80 --> 1499.80] I have no way -[1499.80 --> 1501.80] I have no way -[1501.80 --> 1513.80] I have no way -[1513.80 --> 1515.80] I have no way -[1515.80 --> 1517.80] I have no way -[1517.80 --> 1519.80] Come on up -[1519.80 --> 1521.80] Come on in -[1521.80 --> 1523.80] How are you guys doing? -[1523.80 --> 1525.80] Only Malachi is doing good? -[1525.80 --> 1527.80] I am -[1527.80 --> 1529.80] Excellent! -[1529.80 --> 1531.80] I don't know you to do anything but good -[1531.80 --> 1533.80] Right, Alvin? -[1533.80 --> 1535.80] Yeah -[1535.80 --> 1539.80] So, this morning you guys are going to head over to children's worship time -[1539.80 --> 1541.80] But before -[1541.80 --> 1543.80] You're named a big kid? -[1543.80 --> 1544.80] Oh, okay -[1544.80 --> 1545.80] Haley's a big kid now everyone -[1545.80 --> 1547.80] She graduated -[1547.80 --> 1549.80] Good job -[1549.80 --> 1551.80] As you head out to children's worship time -[1551.80 --> 1552.80] We're going to pray for you -[1552.80 --> 1554.80] And then we're going to do the children's blessing -[1554.80 --> 1556.80] Now it's been a little while since I've been up here -[1556.80 --> 1557.80] So I'm going to need your help -[1557.80 --> 1559.80] When we come to that, okay? -[1559.80 --> 1561.80] So we've got to speak really loud -[1561.80 --> 1562.80] Because there's only a couple of us -[1562.80 --> 1564.80] I'm not sure if I remember how to do it -[1564.80 --> 1565.80] So first let me pray -[1565.80 --> 1567.80] And then we will send you guys out -[1567.80 --> 1568.80] Let's pray together -[1570.80 --> 1573.80] Holy God, we thank you for this chance to worship you -[1573.80 --> 1577.80] And we pray for these kids as they continue to do that -[1577.80 --> 1579.80] Out in the multi-purpose room -[1579.80 --> 1581.80] Pray God that they would learn about you -[1581.80 --> 1583.80] Experience community and life together -[1583.80 --> 1586.80] And know joy and fun -[1586.80 --> 1589.80] Be with them in worship we pray -[1589.80 --> 1590.80] In Jesus name -[1592.80 --> 1593.80] Amen -[1593.80 --> 1594.80] Good job -[1594.80 --> 1595.80] Alright, let's stand up -[1595.80 --> 1596.80] Everyone else you can stand too -[1596.80 --> 1597.80] I think that's how it goes -[1597.80 --> 1599.80] And then Haley what do we do with our hands? -[1601.80 --> 1602.80] The Lord be with like that -[1602.80 --> 1604.80] Okay, everyone saw that right? -[1604.80 --> 1605.80] So hands up -[1605.80 --> 1606.80] We'll say it first and then you respond -[1606.80 --> 1607.80] Ready? -[1607.80 --> 1611.80] The Lord be with you -[1613.80 --> 1614.80] Amen -[1614.80 --> 1615.80] Go ahead guys, you know where you're going -[1622.80 --> 1624.80] I'm going to stand here -[1624.80 --> 1629.80] I'm going to move this one -[1629.80 --> 1639.80] It's my privilege to lead us in our church family prayer this morning -[1639.80 --> 1643.80] Just a quick reminder from the council -[1644.80 --> 1649.80] As Mike said we are working in a bit of a deficit -[1649.80 --> 1650.80] So we do want to encourage your giving -[1650.80 --> 1655.80] Physical giving needs to be in by the 28th -[1655.80 --> 1660.80] And then if you're doing online giving either e-transfers or through the Tidely app -[1660.80 --> 1663.80] I believe that can be received up to the 31st -[1663.80 --> 1666.80] So please consider that in these next couple days -[1666.80 --> 1670.80] As you finish out the year with us together -[1671.80 --> 1673.80] Let's come to God in prayer now -[1673.80 --> 1674.80] Let's come to God in prayer now -[1682.80 --> 1683.80] O Holy Christ -[1684.80 --> 1686.80] Splendor of God's eternal glory -[1686.80 --> 1689.80] The mighty word sustaining the universe -[1689.80 --> 1692.80] Renew our lives by your presence -[1696.80 --> 1697.80] O mighty Christ -[1697.80 --> 1699.80] Born into the world in the fullness of time -[1699.80 --> 1702.80] For the liberation of all creation -[1703.80 --> 1706.80] Release us into your promise -[1707.80 --> 1708.80] Freedom -[1710.80 --> 1711.80] O Holy Christ -[1711.80 --> 1712.80] Truly God -[1712.80 --> 1713.80] And truly human -[1713.80 --> 1717.80] Born to a people in fulfillment of their expectations -[1718.80 --> 1721.80] Fulfill our desires in you -[1721.80 --> 1722.80] In you -[1725.80 --> 1729.80] As we gather in worship this day after Christmas -[1730.80 --> 1732.80] We continue in that celebration -[1733.80 --> 1735.80] Continue in the celebration of the infinite becoming finite -[1736.80 --> 1740.80] Continue in seeing meekness and majesty meet in the Savior -[1743.80 --> 1748.80] Continue Lord God with our hearts affections drawn to you -[1748.80 --> 1752.80] And so give us those spiritual eyes to see -[1752.80 --> 1754.80] And those spiritual ears to hear -[1755.80 --> 1760.80] As you speak the truth of the gospel over every aspect of our life together -[1763.80 --> 1766.80] Father God we give you praise for those of us who had chances -[1767.80 --> 1769.80] In this past week or yet again today -[1770.80 --> 1773.80] To gather with family and friends and to celebrate -[1773.80 --> 1775.80] We thank you for the -[1776.80 --> 1780.80] The meaningful time that could be spent together in doing those sorts of things -[1781.80 --> 1785.80] And likewise God we are mindful of those who are unable -[1786.80 --> 1790.80] Who are unable because of covid or because of weather -[1791.80 --> 1794.80] Who are unable because of other circumstances in their life -[1794.80 --> 1800.80] We pray that you would be near to those of us who this time of year feel lonely -[1801.80 --> 1806.80] For those of us this time of year who are remembering loved ones who have -[1807.80 --> 1808.80] Gone to glory -[1809.80 --> 1812.80] Those of us this time of year who are remembering broken relationships -[1813.80 --> 1817.80] Those of us this time of year who are thinking about those people whom -[1818.80 --> 1820.80] We have lost along this journey of life -[1820.80 --> 1833.80] We pray Lord God that you would be near to those of us who are wondering in anxiety and hurt and pain -[1834.80 --> 1839.80] Father God we know that this has been a -[1839.80 --> 1845.80] A different and unexpected or unfortunate -[1846.80 --> 1848.80] Christmas holiday season -[1849.80 --> 1855.80] With all sorts of different things that have impacted our ability to gather in the ways that we would like -[1856.80 --> 1861.80] Particularly we know that covid cases are rising seemingly exponentially -[1862.80 --> 1864.80] That we're in this midst of the fifth wave -[1864.80 --> 1869.80] And in this all God we know that there is so much frustration -[1870.80 --> 1871.80] So much covid fatigue -[1875.80 --> 1876.80] We're just done -[1879.80 --> 1880.80] Just -[1881.80 --> 1882.80] Ready to ignore it all -[1883.80 --> 1885.80] And yet Lord God -[1886.80 --> 1887.80] More is required of us -[1888.80 --> 1889.80] More is being asked of us -[1889.80 --> 1893.80] Not only by public health officials and those in authority -[1894.80 --> 1898.80] But by you and by your grace and by your call to love our neighbor -[1899.80 --> 1902.80] Even when it is hard Lord God -[1903.80 --> 1905.80] We are called to be that light on a hill -[1906.80 --> 1907.80] We are called to be the light of the world -[1908.80 --> 1911.80] And so stir in us a renewed empathy -[1912.80 --> 1913.80] Stir in us a renewed compassion -[1913.80 --> 1916.80] Stir in us a new vigor -[1917.80 --> 1920.80] To proclaim your gospel fruit -[1921.80 --> 1926.80] May your perfect love drive out our fear -[1927.80 --> 1931.80] May we not be ruled by fear -[1932.80 --> 1936.80] God whether we are on one side of this issue or another -[1936.80 --> 1939.80] It is so easy to let fear determine our responses -[1940.80 --> 1942.80] Fear of governmental overreach -[1943.80 --> 1944.80] Fear of disease -[1945.80 --> 1948.80] Fear of the rights being taken away -[1949.80 --> 1952.80] And fear of the right to health and safety being overcome -[1953.80 --> 1957.80] May we not be spurred by fear -[1958.80 --> 1961.80] But may we be moved in love -[1961.80 --> 1967.80] God we know that there are members in our church family -[1968.80 --> 1969.80] Who right now have COVID -[1970.80 --> 1971.80] We pray for them -[1972.80 --> 1973.80] We pray for healing -[1974.80 --> 1978.80] We pray for your presence and your nearness on these days of isolating and recovery -[1979.80 --> 1985.80] We pray Lord God for those of us who have family members and friends who are dealing with COVID -[1986.80 --> 1990.80] Or for the COVID long haulers and those of us who have lost loved ones -[1991.80 --> 1992.80] Because of COVID -[1993.80 --> 2001.80] In the midst of this all Lord God we need new experience of your love, your presence, your power and your peace -[2002.80 --> 2003.80] And so give us that -[2004.80 --> 2012.80] Father we want to pray for those nurses and doctors and clerks and other healthcare staff -[2013.80 --> 2017.80] Who are in the midst of this more than so many of us -[2017.80 --> 2020.80] We pray for burnout and for frustration and anger -[2021.80 --> 2025.80] We pray Lord God that you would sustain all those in need -[2026.80 --> 2034.80] We pray that for those whom we know we might support them not only in prayer here but by our words of encouragement and love -[2034.80 --> 2035.80] God these days -[2035.80 --> 2047.80] Heavenly Father in the midst of this season we are so grateful for the ongoing opportunity to gather as a church community -[2048.80 --> 2051.80] So grateful for the ongoing ministries of your church -[2051.80 --> 2061.80] God I want to pray for the incredible number of volunteers and leaders and the people who make ministry here and from here to the world possible -[2062.80 --> 2070.80] So thank you for the incredible devotion and acts of service of so many people in this church family -[2070.80 --> 2080.80] God we pray as well for our budget and for the ministries that we accomplish by that giving -[2081.80 --> 2086.80] Pray Lord God that you would continue to encourage us in that as we end this year -[2087.80 --> 2093.80] May we do so full of hope and conviction that you are leading us in your mission -[2093.80 --> 2104.80] God we know there are so many things that are happening here that require extra from us that require more time or talent or treasure -[2105.80 --> 2114.80] And we pray that we would do that with open hearts and acts of service expression of our love and worship -[2114.80 --> 2124.80] Father God we know as well that there are those in our midst who are dealing with health concerns -[2125.80 --> 2131.80] Those people who are receiving treatments or procedures or surgeries major or minor -[2132.80 --> 2137.80] We pray for your presence for all people who are waiting for the same or who are recovering from the same -[2137.80 --> 2140.80] We pray that you would be near to them -[2141.80 --> 2145.80] Pray for Miriam and for her recovery from the detached retina -[2146.80 --> 2154.80] Asking God that you would be near to her and restore her through the process of treatment that she is undergoing -[2155.80 --> 2160.80] We pray for Elsa after her fall and her subsequent surgery and the recovery that she has -[2160.80 --> 2163.80] As grateful to have seen her here in worship -[2164.80 --> 2165.80] A few days ago -[2166.80 --> 2171.80] We pray that you would be near to her and her recovery and give her the patience that she needs as well to do that well -[2172.80 --> 2175.80] We pray Lord God for the -[2176.80 --> 2182.80] The many others whom we have held up and who are in ongoing treatment processes -[2183.80 --> 2186.80] Asking that you would work in their lives -[2186.80 --> 2189.80] God with Frank and Sylvia -[2190.80 --> 2193.80] We want to pray for their niece and nephew and their five families Darren -[2194.80 --> 2195.80] Krista -[2196.80 --> 2197.80] Their five kids as they -[2198.80 --> 2201.80] Are dealing with the effects of a fire in their house and are now looking for a -[2202.80 --> 2204.80] Five bedroom place pray that you would provide for them -[2205.80 --> 2208.80] Through their church community or through our church community -[2209.80 --> 2213.80] Pray Lord God that you would watch over them and give them what they need -[2213.80 --> 2216.80] Thank you for the way that they have been surrounded in love and care and prayer and -[2216.80 --> 2221.80] Ask God that you would work in the midst of that time -[2222.80 --> 2223.80] And their circumstance -[2224.80 --> 2228.80] Father God we pray now as we come to your word that -[2229.80 --> 2237.80] In the hearing of your word we would hear the voice of Jesus that that you would convict our hearts and that you would -[2237.80 --> 2244.80] Restore us to the joy of your salvation restore us to the hope of your kingdom come and your kingdom coming -[2245.80 --> 2248.80] Restore us by the words of the good shepherd -[2249.80 --> 2251.80] May we be sheep who know his -[2251.80 --> 2253.80] His -[2254.80 --> 2255.80] Pray for Josh as he -[2256.80 --> 2258.80] Brings your word opens it up and explains it to us -[2259.80 --> 2261.80] Give him what he needs and thank you for the preparations that -[2262.80 --> 2266.80] He has done in the call that you have placed on his life and the opportunity that we have -[2267.80 --> 2270.80] To be used of you to develop that -[2271.80 --> 2273.80] So Lord God we pray -[2273.80 --> 2277.80] Trusting that you are at work in the world by the prayers of your saints -[2278.80 --> 2279.80] Hear our prayers -[2280.80 --> 2282.80] In the name of Jesus Christ we pray -[2283.80 --> 2284.80] Amen -[2303.80 --> 2308.80] Hello -[2309.80 --> 2310.80] Beautiful -[2311.80 --> 2312.80] Okay, this is all working out -[2315.80 --> 2316.80] Okay -[2317.80 --> 2318.80] Today we're going to open our Bibles to Luke 2 -[2319.80 --> 2320.80] 41 to 52 -[2321.80 --> 2322.80] So behind me? -[2323.80 --> 2324.80] Yeah -[2325.80 --> 2329.80] Following the Advent series where Chris and Kevin un-hallmarked the memorable stories of Jesus' birth -[2329.80 --> 2331.80] We get a story when he was a child -[2332.80 --> 2334.80] It's the only story when he wasn't an infant or 30 -[2335.80 --> 2336.80] He's 12 in this story -[2337.80 --> 2338.80] And he does something that's -[2339.80 --> 2340.80] odd -[2341.80 --> 2342.80] Reading it -[2342.80 --> 2343.80] Seems a bit weird -[2344.80 --> 2345.80] So let's get into it -[2346.80 --> 2347.80] If your Bibles are open -[2348.80 --> 2349.80] Awesome -[2350.80 --> 2351.80] If not, it'll be on the screen -[2352.80 --> 2353.80] Okay -[2354.80 --> 2358.80] Every year Jesus' parents went to Jerusalem for the festival of the Passover -[2358.80 --> 2359.80] When he was 12 years old -[2359.80 --> 2361.80] They went up to the festival according to the custom -[2362.80 --> 2363.80] After the festival was over -[2364.80 --> 2365.80] With his parents -[2366.80 --> 2367.80] While his parents were returning home -[2368.80 --> 2369.80] The boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem -[2370.80 --> 2371.80] But they were unaware of it -[2372.80 --> 2374.80] Thinking he was in their company they traveled on for a day -[2375.80 --> 2377.80] Then they began looking for him among their relatives and friends -[2378.80 --> 2381.80] When they did not find him they went back to Jerusalem to look for him -[2382.80 --> 2384.80] After three days they found him in the temple courts -[2384.80 --> 2386.80] Sitting among the teachers -[2387.80 --> 2389.80] Listening to them and asking them questions -[2390.80 --> 2393.80] Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers -[2394.80 --> 2396.80] When his parents saw him they were astonished -[2397.80 --> 2398.80] His mother said to him -[2398.80 --> 2399.80] Son, why have you treated us like this? -[2400.80 --> 2402.80] Your father and I have been anxiously searching for you -[2403.80 --> 2405.80] Why were you searching for me? -[2406.80 --> 2407.80] He asked -[2408.80 --> 2410.80] Didn't you know I had to be in my father's house? -[2410.80 --> 2413.80] But they did not understand what he was saying to them -[2414.80 --> 2416.80] Then he went down to Nazareth with them -[2417.80 --> 2418.80] And was obedient to them -[2419.80 --> 2420.80] But his mother treasured all these things in her heart -[2421.80 --> 2422.80] And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature -[2423.80 --> 2424.80] And in favor with God and men -[2425.80 --> 2429.80] That's a weird story, right? -[2430.80 --> 2434.80] Jesus the Messiah leaves his parents without telling them -[2435.80 --> 2436.80] And they're searching through the whole city to find him -[2436.80 --> 2439.80] Every parent's worst nightmare -[2440.80 --> 2443.80] This seems like the one story you wouldn't want to put in the Bible -[2444.80 --> 2445.80] About the Messiah -[2446.80 --> 2447.80] Yet here it is -[2449.80 --> 2451.80] It's also weird because we're just out of the season of Advent -[2452.80 --> 2454.80] The season where the expectation of the Messiah to come -[2455.80 --> 2457.80] That would free us from all our sins -[2458.80 --> 2460.80] Then we celebrate Christmas yesterday -[2460.80 --> 2465.80] His birth has been expected and prophesied since the fall of Eden -[2466.80 --> 2468.80] Whole nations have waited for this Messiah -[2469.80 --> 2471.80] Three visits from an angel to his family told of his birth -[2472.80 --> 2475.80] Followed by a host of angels blessing the world from on high -[2476.80 --> 2480.80] Stars aligned to guide Magi from the east to visit him as an infant -[2481.80 --> 2485.80] His country's king ordered the death of all the kids in the town he happened to be born in -[2485.80 --> 2488.80] Another angel had to warn his family to protect him -[2489.80 --> 2492.80] Prophets Anna and Simeon met him and wept because they realized -[2493.80 --> 2496.80] They finally were in the presence of the one who was their salvation -[2497.80 --> 2498.80] And then -[2499.80 --> 2500.80] 12 years of nothing -[2501.80 --> 2504.80] And then we get this story when he's 12 and he runs away -[2505.80 --> 2508.80] And then 18 years of more nothing -[2509.80 --> 2513.80] As if that whole grand entrance never happened -[2513.80 --> 2518.80] He was supposed to arrive and then save the world -[2519.80 --> 2523.80] Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests -[2524.80 --> 2527.80] A host of angels sang his entrance into the world -[2528.80 --> 2529.80] What is he doing? -[2530.80 --> 2531.80] Where is the glory to God? -[2532.80 --> 2533.80] Where is the peace? -[2534.80 --> 2535.80] What could he be doing? -[2536.80 --> 2537.80] Well -[2538.80 --> 2539.80] He's living -[2540.80 --> 2541.80] Growing -[2541.80 --> 2542.80] Growing -[2542.80 --> 2543.80] Learning -[2544.80 --> 2545.80] Going to family dinners -[2546.80 --> 2547.80] Visiting his cousins -[2548.80 --> 2550.80] Working a 9 to 5 in carpentry with Joseph -[2551.80 --> 2552.80] Taking lunch breaks -[2553.80 --> 2556.80] Fixing that door that squeaks because the bracket is broken again -[2557.80 --> 2560.80] Helping his friends with something bad it's happening -[2561.80 --> 2562.80] Going to the synagogue -[2562.80 --> 2566.80] Why doesn't the Bible give us any of this? -[2567.80 --> 2568.80] What he was like -[2569.80 --> 2570.80] What he did with his life -[2571.80 --> 2574.80] It doesn't give us this time of his life because it was normal -[2575.80 --> 2576.80] Mundane -[2577.80 --> 2578.80] Average -[2579.80 --> 2583.80] In this period of time in Jesus is living out a normal human life -[2583.80 --> 2585.80] With all its mess love pain and sadness -[2586.80 --> 2592.80] In this period of time Jesus is living out that perfectly obedient life as the perfectly obedient son -[2593.80 --> 2599.80] He's facing all our problems and pains doing all our normal human things -[2600.80 --> 2604.80] So that one day he can bring all those things that make us human to the cross -[2604.80 --> 2610.80] The author of Hebrews clarifies this idea -[2611.80 --> 2614.80] For this reason he had to be like them -[2615.80 --> 2619.80] Fully human in every way in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest -[2620.80 --> 2621.80] In service to God -[2622.80 --> 2623.80] And that he might make atonement for the sins of the people -[2624.80 --> 2626.80] Because he himself suffered when he was tempted -[2627.80 --> 2629.80] He is able to help those who are being tempted -[2629.80 --> 2634.80] So Jesus is doing normal human things -[2635.80 --> 2640.80] Which means we find Jesus in this story doing a normal Jewish thing -[2641.80 --> 2644.80] Actually the most normal Jewish thing -[2645.80 --> 2647.80] He's traveling to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover -[2648.80 --> 2650.80] And as every good Jewish family does -[2651.80 --> 2653.80] They travel with their family and friends from the town and the surrounding area -[2654.80 --> 2656.80] And they go on a pilgrimage to celebrate at the city of God -[2656.80 --> 2659.80] The city where God dwelled in the midst of his people -[2660.80 --> 2661.80] The city where his ark was held -[2662.80 --> 2663.80] Where the sacrifices were made -[2664.80 --> 2667.80] So Jesus and his family partake in the Passover -[2668.80 --> 2671.80] The Passover and the travel would have taken over about a week -[2672.80 --> 2674.80] Then they would have gone home -[2675.80 --> 2676.80] The family and their friends would have packed up -[2677.80 --> 2678.80] And walked the journey home to Nazareth -[2679.80 --> 2682.80] But why tell us the story when he's 12? -[2682.80 --> 2685.80] Why not tell us about the time they went to the Passover when he was 10? -[2686.80 --> 2687.80] Or 16? Or 18? -[2688.80 --> 2689.80] Why 12? -[2690.80 --> 2693.80] Well, one reason could be that he decided to disappear for 3 days -[2694.80 --> 2699.80] But the more likely reason is because the age itself -[2700.80 --> 2701.80] 12 -[2702.80 --> 2703.80] It's big in Jewish culture -[2704.80 --> 2706.80] Modern Jews at the age of 13 will celebrate their bar mitzvah -[2707.80 --> 2708.80] Bar mitzvah means son of the commandment -[2708.80 --> 2713.80] This was the time when the males would be responsible fully under the Jewish law -[2714.80 --> 2720.80] This became a standard practice back in the 14th century as it is named -[2721.80 --> 2726.80] But all the way back before Jesus the age of 13 was that same transitional period -[2727.80 --> 2731.80] All this to say that this is an important time in every Jewish kid's life -[2731.80 --> 2736.80] The weight of responsibility and the expectations from their families was huge -[2737.80 --> 2740.80] This was the period where you would either become a student of the law -[2741.80 --> 2742.80] Or follow in your father's footsteps -[2743.80 --> 2746.80] Sons would then take their father's occupation and take over the family's business -[2747.80 --> 2750.80] So not only was this a big time for kids -[2751.80 --> 2753.80] This was a big time for fathers -[2753.80 --> 2755.80] The fathers had to prepare them to succeed -[2756.80 --> 2759.80] Make sure they were studying the law to the best of their ability -[2760.80 --> 2761.80] Or to teach them how to do the family job well -[2762.80 --> 2766.80] So when Mary, Joseph, and Jesus go to Jerusalem -[2767.80 --> 2769.80] This is a good chance for Joseph to prepare Jesus -[2770.80 --> 2772.80] To take on the religious duties that adults have to go through -[2773.80 --> 2774.80] Specifically with the Passover -[2774.80 --> 2777.80] But also with the other areas like the sacrificial system -[2778.80 --> 2780.80] And more in-depth religious duties -[2781.80 --> 2784.80] This is a good chance for Joseph to shape Jesus' identity -[2787.80 --> 2789.80] Now this transitional period that Jesus goes through -[2790.80 --> 2792.80] Is not too dissimilar to what we go through today -[2793.80 --> 2795.80] We don't have this transition when we turn 13 -[2796.80 --> 2799.80] But we have a transition moment like this when we turn 18 here in Canada -[2800.80 --> 2802.80] At 18 we graduate high school -[2802.80 --> 2804.80] We decide if we're going to go through university or trade school -[2805.80 --> 2807.80] Or enter the workforce or wherever life leads you -[2815.80 --> 2816.80] This is the moment when the responsibility is placed on our shoulders -[2817.80 --> 2819.80] When all the preparation we had in school takes effect -[2820.80 --> 2824.80] And like Jesus we had our parents, our guardians, our mentors, our teachers -[2825.80 --> 2826.80] They're preparing us for that time in our life -[2827.80 --> 2828.80] They taught us how to drive -[2829.80 --> 2830.80] They might have taken us to the bank -[2830.80 --> 2831.80] And stepped us through creating an account -[2832.80 --> 2833.80] They taught us how to ride a bike -[2834.80 --> 2836.80] When they cooked they might have got us to help them cook -[2837.80 --> 2839.80] And then maybe they got us to cook on Thursdays or something like that -[2840.80 --> 2842.80] When they fixed the car the parents might have got us to help -[2843.80 --> 2844.80] To help them replace a light bulb -[2845.80 --> 2848.80] But this isn't the only transition moment we face -[2849.80 --> 2850.80] We go through others like this -[2851.80 --> 2853.80] We get married, we have kids, we move between jobs -[2853.80 --> 2856.80] We move between jobs or to a new city, a new country, a new continent -[2857.80 --> 2858.80] We move out -[2859.80 --> 2860.80] I did that recently -[2862.80 --> 2864.80] We go through these transition periods -[2865.80 --> 2866.80] Retirement is another one -[2867.80 --> 2869.80] We all face major transition moments in our life -[2870.80 --> 2875.80] These moments are filled with confusion and pressure, excitement and dread -[2875.80 --> 2877.80] Jesus went through similar transitions -[2878.80 --> 2880.80] He had those feelings, he had those pressures -[2881.80 --> 2883.80] As Hebrews says, because he himself suffered -[2884.80 --> 2888.80] And so now like every good Jewish family does -[2889.80 --> 2890.80] After Passover is done -[2891.80 --> 2892.80] They head back -[2892.80 --> 2893.80] And everyone is walking together to Nazareth -[2894.80 --> 2895.80] All the kids are probably running around in a group -[2896.80 --> 2897.80] Playing with each other -[2898.80 --> 2899.80] People are talking about the great time they had -[2900.80 --> 2901.80] Sharing stories -[2901.80 --> 2903.80] Mary and Joseph among these people -[2904.80 --> 2905.80] Probably saw Jesus go off with some others -[2906.80 --> 2908.80] And they thought he was safe because he was with family -[2909.80 --> 2911.80] He might be playing with the other kids and cousins -[2912.80 --> 2913.80] Later that day when they go rest -[2914.80 --> 2915.80] They check out where he is -[2916.80 --> 2917.80] But they can't find him -[2918.80 --> 2920.80] So they go ask Grandpa Helly if he's seen him -[2921.80 --> 2922.80] He's not there, maybe he's with the other kids -[2923.80 --> 2924.80] Oh no -[2925.80 --> 2930.80] They see Jesus wasn't there when it got dark -[2931.80 --> 2934.80] They search the camp asking around for the family and their friends -[2934.80 --> 2935.80] If they seen Jesus -[2936.80 --> 2937.80] It's normal he might be around -[2937.80 --> 2938.80] There are a lot of people around -[2939.80 --> 2940.80] But they still can't find him -[2941.80 --> 2942.80] So they race back to Jerusalem -[2943.80 --> 2944.80] They visit all the places they went to -[2945.80 --> 2946.80] They ask around -[2947.80 --> 2949.80] And then they finally arrive at the main location where the Passover took place -[2950.80 --> 2951.80] The temple -[2952.80 --> 2953.80] And they find him there -[2954.80 --> 2956.80] They see him sitting with the teachers of the law -[2957.80 --> 2958.80] Listening intently -[2959.80 --> 2960.80] Asking questions -[2960.80 --> 2961.80] And when Mary and Joseph get there -[2961.80 --> 2963.80] Mary does what every good mother would do -[2963.80 --> 2964.80] In this situation -[2964.80 --> 2966.80] She interrupts the highest level of authority in the land -[2967.80 --> 2968.80] And scolds her son in front of them for running away -[2969.80 --> 2973.80] Son, why have you treated us like this? -[2974.80 --> 2977.80] Your father and I have been anxiously searching for you -[2978.80 --> 2979.80] She's been worried for a long time -[2980.80 --> 2982.80] That kind of fear that only parents can feel -[2983.80 --> 2985.80] And more than that, after all that happened at his birth -[2985.80 --> 2988.80] The advent, the angels, all the kids at Bethlehem that got killed -[2989.80 --> 2991.80] The wise men, God telling her her son would be the Messiah -[2992.80 --> 2993.80] Luke writes -[2994.80 --> 2995.80] When his parents saw him -[2996.80 --> 2997.80] They were astonished -[2998.80 --> 3000.80] Somehow I feel like with all this in mind -[3001.80 --> 3002.80] That was a huge understatement -[3003.80 --> 3005.80] And in response Jesus says this -[3006.80 --> 3008.80] Why were you searching for me? -[3008.80 --> 3011.80] Didn't you know I was supposed to be here? -[3012.80 --> 3013.80] What? -[3014.80 --> 3017.80] What kind of response is that? -[3018.80 --> 3021.80] Let's look at the text -[3022.80 --> 3024.80] Where did they find Jesus when they found him? -[3025.80 --> 3027.80] At the temple -[3028.80 --> 3029.80] Okay, okay -[3030.80 --> 3031.80] Where does he go? -[3031.80 --> 3032.80] Where does he go? -[3032.80 --> 3033.80] What is he doing there? -[3035.80 --> 3036.80] Learning -[3036.80 --> 3037.80] Listening -[3038.80 --> 3039.80] Asking questions -[3040.80 --> 3041.80] Yes -[3042.80 --> 3043.80] He's at the most important location in Jewish thought -[3044.80 --> 3046.80] And listening to the most important people -[3047.80 --> 3048.80] Talk about the Jewish religion -[3049.80 --> 3050.80] He's paying attention to what the leaders of the religion are saying -[3051.80 --> 3052.80] The experts -[3053.80 --> 3054.80] The religion about him by the way -[3055.80 --> 3057.80] Which, when you think about it -[3058.80 --> 3060.80] That makes this the best episode of Undercover Boss -[3061.80 --> 3062.80] He's listening -[3065.80 --> 3066.80] Learning -[3067.80 --> 3068.80] And understanding -[3069.80 --> 3070.80] He's not speaking to them in authority -[3071.80 --> 3072.80] He's not commanding them -[3073.80 --> 3074.80] Speaking with great rhetoric or prose -[3075.80 --> 3076.80] He's a student -[3077.80 --> 3078.80] Not a rabbi -[3079.80 --> 3080.80] Jesus is preparing -[3081.80 --> 3082.80] In the temple -[3083.80 --> 3084.80] In his father's house -[3086.80 --> 3088.80] Jesus is not just going through a transition -[3089.80 --> 3090.80] Into life as an adult -[3091.80 --> 3092.80] He's going through a transition -[3092.80 --> 3094.80] In life as the Messiah -[3095.80 --> 3097.80] He's preparing to be our king -[3098.80 --> 3099.80] Our high priest -[3100.80 --> 3101.80] And through all this confusion and chaos -[3101.80 --> 3102.80] We humans experience -[3103.80 --> 3104.80] When we go through these periods of time -[3105.80 --> 3107.80] We tend to try to plan out what we want to do -[3108.80 --> 3111.80] We look for mentors and counselors to seek guidance for what we should do -[3112.80 --> 3114.80] Like Joseph trying to prepare his son for life as an adult -[3114.80 --> 3115.80] But Jesus was different in this way -[3115.80 --> 3119.80] Jesus didn't ask Joseph or Mary what he should do for work -[3120.80 --> 3123.80] Or if he should go to school -[3124.80 --> 3127.80] He knew what he was supposed to do -[3128.80 --> 3129.80] Didn't you know? -[3130.80 --> 3133.80] I must be at my father's house -[3134.80 --> 3136.80] He knows who he is -[3136.80 --> 3138.80] He knows who his father is -[3138.80 --> 3139.80] He knows who his father is -[3139.80 --> 3140.80] And who he knows what he has to do -[3141.80 --> 3143.80] He knows he's the Messiah -[3144.80 --> 3146.80] He knows he's the son of God -[3147.80 --> 3151.80] And he knows that preparing for that task was worth his parents being scared for a few days -[3152.80 --> 3154.80] Now, he probably didn't intend that -[3155.80 --> 3157.80] By his own admission he did say, why were you looking for me? -[3157.80 --> 3159.80] Didn't you know I was supposed to be here? -[3160.80 --> 3164.80] In this moment of transition in life when the chaos builds up -[3165.80 --> 3167.80] And the pressure and the responsibilities build up -[3168.80 --> 3170.80] When identity is being formed in him -[3171.80 --> 3172.80] Jesus goes to his father -[3174.80 --> 3175.80] What does my father want me to do? -[3176.80 --> 3178.80] What does my father say I am? -[3179.80 --> 3181.80] We see this in other parts of Jesus' life -[3182.80 --> 3183.80] When he goes to his baptism -[3184.80 --> 3185.80] We hear God say, this is my son -[3185.80 --> 3186.80] This is my son -[3187.80 --> 3188.80] When he enters Jerusalem on the donkey -[3188.80 --> 3190.80] And all the people are waving the palm branches -[3190.80 --> 3191.80] And they call him king -[3192.80 --> 3193.80] God says, this is my son -[3194.80 --> 3195.80] At his transfiguration -[3195.80 --> 3196.80] God says, this is my son -[3197.80 --> 3198.80] Listen to him -[3199.80 --> 3200.80] And then when he's in the garden -[3201.80 --> 3202.80] He prayed to God for guidance -[3202.80 --> 3203.80] And he said, your will, not mine -[3205.80 --> 3207.80] Through the gospels there is a focused emphasis -[3208.80 --> 3210.80] On how much he went away to pray alone -[3211.80 --> 3213.80] And you'll hear Jesus say things like -[3213.80 --> 3214.80] I do what my father does -[3215.80 --> 3216.80] I do the work of my father -[3216.80 --> 3218.80] What the father does, the son does also -[3219.80 --> 3221.80] Jesus was so concerned -[3222.80 --> 3223.80] With what God wanted him to do -[3224.80 --> 3226.80] So concerned with who God saw him as -[3227.80 --> 3228.80] That Jesus knew it was okay -[3229.80 --> 3230.80] That his parents were scared -[3231.80 --> 3232.80] You can hear it in his words -[3232.80 --> 3233.80] Did you know? -[3234.80 --> 3235.80] No? -[3235.80 --> 3236.80] I must be here -[3236.80 --> 3237.80] I must do my father's business -[3238.80 --> 3239.80] This is who he is -[3241.80 --> 3242.80] Jesus' own words -[3242.80 --> 3245.80] He says, do not think I have come to abolish the law or the prophets -[3246.80 --> 3247.80] I have not come to abolish them -[3248.80 --> 3249.80] But to fulfill them -[3250.80 --> 3251.80] Jesus came out to live -[3252.80 --> 3254.80] The life the law describes perfectly -[3255.80 --> 3256.80] Obediently -[3257.80 --> 3258.80] To glorify his father -[3259.80 --> 3260.80] So that he could be the high priest -[3261.80 --> 3262.80] The atonement for our sins -[3263.80 --> 3265.80] Jesus lived out that perfect life -[3266.80 --> 3268.80] He lived out the identity of the perfect son -[3268.80 --> 3269.80] Willing to obey his father -[3269.80 --> 3271.80] Even if it killed him -[3272.80 --> 3273.80] Why? -[3274.80 --> 3277.80] So that we can share in that identity -[3278.80 --> 3280.80] He was born -[3281.80 --> 3282.80] Lived a normal life -[3283.80 --> 3285.80] Worked, slept, cried -[3286.80 --> 3287.80] Laughed, loved, and died -[3287.80 --> 3289.80] And for a lot of his 30 years -[3290.80 --> 3291.80] It was probably mundane -[3292.80 --> 3293.80] Just like our life -[3294.80 --> 3295.80] So that we here and now -[3296.80 --> 3297.80] In this life to come -[3297.80 --> 3298.80] And to the life to come to the next -[3299.80 --> 3300.80] Could be transformed into children of God -[3301.80 --> 3304.80] So that we could have a perfect father like he did -[3305.80 --> 3308.80] He lived our weird and ordinary life and died -[3309.80 --> 3310.80] So that by his resurrection -[3311.80 --> 3312.80] We could live forever more -[3313.80 --> 3314.80] And have his holy perfect father -[3314.80 --> 3317.80] Jesus, unlike ourselves -[3318.80 --> 3320.80] Lived a life dedicated to his father -[3321.80 --> 3323.80] The pure and powerful statement -[3324.80 --> 3325.80] Of a 12 year old boy -[3326.80 --> 3327.80] I must -[3328.80 --> 3330.80] Is a clear picture into his mentality -[3333.80 --> 3335.80] I must be in my father's house -[3336.80 --> 3337.80] Or I must be about my father's business -[3338.80 --> 3339.80] He lived out the law perfectly -[3340.80 --> 3342.80] Now we, by the grace of God -[3342.80 --> 3343.80] And the grace of God -[3343.80 --> 3344.80] Are gifted the identity of Christ -[3345.80 --> 3346.80] That perfect sonship -[3347.80 --> 3348.80] So that we don't have to -[3349.80 --> 3350.80] Jesus must -[3351.80 --> 3352.80] So that we may -[3353.80 --> 3354.80] If we lived in the I must -[3355.80 --> 3356.80] Then we wouldn't be free from the grip of sin -[3357.80 --> 3358.80] And the need to obey -[3359.80 --> 3360.80] And to live up to perfection -[3361.80 --> 3362.80] This grace allows us to live free -[3363.80 --> 3364.80] From the shame of failure -[3365.80 --> 3369.80] We now may live in our father's house -[3369.80 --> 3372.80] We may be about our father's business -[3373.80 --> 3374.80] We as brothers in Christ -[3375.80 --> 3377.80] With the identity that was placed on us by our father -[3378.80 --> 3380.80] Can navigate these treacherous transition moments in our life -[3381.80 --> 3385.80] When we face the chaos of change -[3386.80 --> 3387.80] Having kids growing up -[3388.80 --> 3389.80] Getting old, retiring -[3390.80 --> 3391.80] We can rely on our father's voice -[3392.80 --> 3395.80] Like Jesus who heard his father speak to him at his baptism -[3395.80 --> 3396.80] At the entrance to Jerusalem -[3397.80 --> 3398.80] Or at the transfiguration -[3399.80 --> 3400.80] You are my son -[3401.80 --> 3403.80] His father -[3404.80 --> 3405.80] Our father -[3406.80 --> 3408.80] Is saying the same thing about us -[3409.80 --> 3410.80] To us -[3411.80 --> 3414.80] And he sometimes -[3415.80 --> 3417.80] Most of the time does this through his word -[3417.80 --> 3421.80] That also includes pastors and teachers -[3422.80 --> 3423.80] Loved ones and friends -[3424.80 --> 3425.80] And even sometimes an actual voice from on high -[3426.80 --> 3429.80] God sees us as his children -[3430.80 --> 3431.80] And rather than living out our lives -[3432.80 --> 3433.80] Seeing ourselves as we do -[3434.80 --> 3437.80] People living as if we must live this perfect life -[3438.80 --> 3439.80] To earn forgiveness -[3440.80 --> 3442.80] We can live out our normal life -[3443.80 --> 3444.80] Ordinary, mundane, painful -[3444.80 --> 3447.80] Happy, exciting, anxious, astounding lives -[3448.80 --> 3449.80] As children of God -[3450.80 --> 3451.80] All because he did it for us -[3452.80 --> 3455.80] And so when we go through these transition moments in life -[3456.80 --> 3457.80] Growing up, getting old, having kids -[3458.80 --> 3460.80] And eventually that final transition from this life to the next -[3461.80 --> 3462.80] We can do so with peace -[3463.80 --> 3468.80] Remembering that we are sons and daughters of our father -[3469.80 --> 3470.80] Amen? -[3470.80 --> 3473.80] Okay -[3474.80 --> 3475.80] Let's pray -[3482.80 --> 3483.80] Father, thank you -[3484.80 --> 3485.80] Thank you for this wonderful day -[3486.80 --> 3489.80] This wonderful, cold, blizzardy, dreary day -[3490.80 --> 3492.80] Thank you, Lord, that we can hear your voice -[3493.80 --> 3496.80] We know that we are children of God -[3497.80 --> 3498.80] Your children -[3498.80 --> 3500.80] We're brothers with Christ -[3501.80 --> 3503.80] And I pray that you would fill us with the Holy Spirit -[3504.80 --> 3505.80] As you filled Jesus -[3506.80 --> 3508.80] For the rest of the week, Lord -[3509.80 --> 3510.80] Bless us -[3511.80 --> 3512.80] Amen -[3517.80 --> 3518.80] Please stand as we sing -[3518.80 --> 3521.80] Amen -[3538.80 --> 3539.80] vessels lost in darkest night -[3539.80 --> 3543.80] Yet though I knew he would wear -[3543.80 --> 3558.12] And though I knew you were gay, the sin that promised joy and life, it led me to the grave. -[3558.12 --> 3568.16] I had the hope that you would own the level to your will. -[3568.16 --> 3578.16] And if you had not loved me first, your will would live me still. -[3578.16 --> 3608.16] -[3608.16 --> 3617.38] And I beheld God's love displayed, you suffered in my face. -[3617.38 --> 3626.38] You bore the wrath, reserved for me, now all I have is you. -[3626.38 --> 3639.90] Hallelujah, all I have is Christ. -[3639.90 --> 3650.12] Hallelujah, Jesus is my God. -[3650.12 --> 3660.12] Now Lord, I will be yours alone and live so long. -[3660.12 --> 3671.56] The strength to follow your claims would never come on me. -[3671.56 --> 3681.46] Oh Father, use my ransom life in all the way you choose. -[3681.46 --> 3691.16] And let my song forever be, my only boast is you. -[3691.16 --> 3703.64] Hallelujah, all my love is Christ. -[3703.64 --> 3713.06] Hallelujah, Jesus is my God. -[3713.06 --> 3722.06] Hallelujah, all my love is Christ. -[3722.06 --> 3732.06] Hallelujah, Jesus is my God. -[3732.06 --> 3750.06] Hallelujah, all my love is Christ. -[3750.06 --> 3759.06] Hallelujah, all I have is Christ. -[3759.06 --> 3789.04] Hallelujah, all my love is Christ. -[3789.04 --> 3819.02] Thank you. -[3819.04 --> 3830.98] You have fully paid for all my sins and all my debt. -[3831.92 --> 3842.98] Even when I struggle to believe, with your precious God you set me free. -[3842.98 --> 3856.42] I am on my own, my belong, body and soul. -[3856.42 --> 3862.42] In my life, you held it gay. -[3863.56 --> 3869.42] To you all, Christ my Lord. -[3869.42 --> 3877.42] You've preserved my life in such a way that without you. -[3878.76 --> 3884.16] Not a hair can fall from me unless you ever do. -[3884.16 --> 3897.10] Even when I'm lost in desperation, all things work together with salvation. -[3897.10 --> 3910.04] I am on my own, nothing like body and soul. -[3910.04 --> 3924.04] In my life, I will tell you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[3924.04 --> 3951.86] I am on my own, nothing like body and soul. -[3951.86 --> 3964.36] Always by your Holy Spirit you assure me of eternal life and make me willing and ready. -[3964.98 --> 3976.20] Even when I can see my way through, from now on I'll always live for you. -[3976.20 --> 3994.20] I have not my heart, but behold, heart and soul in my life. -[3994.20 --> 4005.20] And it's day to you, Lord, I am my Lord. -[4006.20 --> 4020.34] I have not my own, but behold, heart and soul in my life. -[4020.34 --> 4031.34] And it's day to you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[4031.34 --> 4047.64] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul in my life. -[4047.64 --> 4059.64] And in death to you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[4059.64 --> 4064.64] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul in my life. -[4064.64 --> 4066.64] Amen. -[4066.64 --> 4069.64] Amen. -[4069.64 --> 4076.64] Amen. -[4076.64 --> 4079.64] Amen. -[4079.64 --> 4081.78] Amen. -[4081.78 --> 4111.76] Thank you. -[4111.78 --> 4141.76] Thank you. -[4141.78 --> 4171.76] Thank you. -[4171.78 --> 4201.76] Thank you. -[4201.78 --> 4203.78] Thank you. -[4231.78 --> 4233.78] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - December 4, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - December 4, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 5e081a3c54ab0284210265463bedb8336e6bc5e9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - December 4, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,110 +0,0 @@ -• Music and singing -• Overcoming injustice and darkness -• Bringing hope and joy through music -• The Tehillah praise concept -• Worship and thanking God for His sacrifice on the cross -• Announcements for the worship service -• New member class after worship -• Christmas choir concert and caroling event on December 18th -• Women's Christmas evening on December 9th -• Youth Coffee at Paul and Leslie Kuhl's house -• Young adult combined worship event at Maple Ridge Church -• Youth lock-in event next weekend -• Advent candle lighting -• Reflections on Jesus' birth and significance -• The struggle with sin and redemption through faith in Jesus -• Trusting in God's love and presence despite darkness and hardship -• Affirmation of God's oneness and unity through Jesus -• Gratitude for salvation and forgiveness through Jesus' sacrifice -• Psalm 13 referenced as a source of confession and assurance -• Questions about God's timing and action (e.g. "How long", "Will you forget me forever") -• Petitions for God to act and intervene in the world (e.g. "Light up my eyes", "Change the plan") -• Expressions of trust and faith in God's steadfast love and salvation -• References to suffering, darkness, and failure -• Prayers for revival, renewal, and restoration of the land -• Questions about God's timing and presence (e.g. "How long before you touch the barren land?") -• Praise and thanksgiving for God's mercy, love, and redemption -• Expressions of joy and wonder at God's glory and love -• Praise and worship to God's crown in heaven -• Welcome and introduction of new church members (Nordham family) -• Affirmation of faith by new members -• Church announcements and offerings -• Introduction of the star of Bethlehem service -• Worship service issues -• Upcoming trip to Costa Rica in spring 2023 -• Sign-up process for trip -• Online registration and documentation -• Changes from previous year, including digital passport submissions -• Announcement for youth leaders to apply and pay deposit for upcoming trip -• Invitation for kids aged 3-4 to join children's worship time up front -• Reading of Christmas book and grandpa's story about God's purpose and listening to Him -• Story of king without a shadow who made lightlings that disobeyed and sinned, resulting in loss of light and shame -• Interruption for church family prayer led by an elder, Ken -• Announcements for upcoming events: Lord's Supper, Sylvia Welfing celebration, and church prayer requests -• Prayers for healing and restoration of body and mind -• Requests for spiritual peace and freedom from addiction -• Intercessions for those experiencing challenges in finances, business, work, and relationships -• Petitions for an end to conflicts, wars, and unrest around the world -• Prayers for specific individuals within the congregation and their families -• Thanksgivings for blessings and milestones -• Requests for guidance and preparation for upcoming events and spiritual practices -• General prayers for renewal, hope, and a deeper relationship with God -• Discussion of last week's scripture on patient endurance and faith -• Transition to this week's focus on joy -• Analysis of Revelation 19:1-9, a "hallelujah chorus" passage -• Explanation of the events preceding Revelation 19:1-9 (chapters 17 and 18) -• Description of the woman and beast in chapters 17 and 18 -• Comparison to Revelation 12: a pure-hearted woman vs. an evil prostitute figure -• The woman in Revelation 12 is spared by God, but the woman in Revelation 17 and 18 is not -• The latter woman is a prostitute who is drunk on the blood of God's holy people and is hated by the beast -• She is corrupt, evil, and wicked, and is devoured by the beast and burned with fire -• The world that loved her cries out in agony as she is destroyed -• There is a contrast between celebration and judgment, and our text discusses the latter -• Celebration is often associated with winning and rejoicing, but judgment is not typically celebrated in modern culture -• However, judgment is necessary for justice to reign, and it is tied to God's sovereignty and power -• The return of Jesus and the end of suffering and pain -• Judgment as a necessary step for celebration and victory -• The contrast between celebrating judgment and the world's tolerance and approval -• The difference between personal repentance and cultural sins that permeate society -• The need for Christ to come again and rid the world of sin, pain, and suffering -• The promise of eternal joy, love, hope, peace, and happiness in heaven -• Salvation belongs to God and is ours through Christ's life, death, and resurrection -• We are saved from sin, misery, and death -• We are delivered to something: righteousness, eternal joy, and a relationship with God -• The story of Scripture ends in celebration, preparing us for the new Jerusalem that is coming -• We need to prepare for this new earth by living according to our calling -• Discussion of Revelation chapter 4, specifically verses 4-6 -• The 24 elders and 4 living creatures mentioned in these verses -• Their role as key characters representing the heavenly council submitting to Christ's authority -• Connection between these characters and their worship of God throughout John's vision in Revelation -• Worship as a celebratory response to divine judgment, as discussed in the text -• The beginning and end of life on earth -• Worshiping our Lord -• A wedding feast in Revelation 19:7-9 -• A place of glory and great rejoicing in heaven -• Christ's church as His bride, clean and bright as fine linen -• The importance of joy resulting from witnessing and proclaiming Christ as Lord -• The conquest of the dragon and its forces -• The victory of an eschatological relationship with God -• The need for diligence in witness and perseverance of faith -• The speaker discusses the difference between happiness and joy -• Happiness is an emotive response to a specific thing, while joy is a posture of understanding or expectation -• Joy can happen at any time and is related to enjoying the prospect of what one desires -• The Bible emphasizes rejoicing or being joyful in all circumstances, not just happiness -• Christ's coming and justice reign will bring joy and hope despite difficult life situations -• Human trafficking and slavery as a rampant issue -• The church's stance against human trafficking and desire to bring awareness and raise money to fight it -• The importance of righteous anger towards injustice, but also the hope for justice in the future -• The promise of Christ's second coming and the eventual reign of justice -• The tension between living in the present with its injustices and looking forward to a future where justice will be realized -• Reflection on Advent season and Jesus' birth -• Waiting for Jesus' return and promise of justice -• Trusting God's promises and leaning on Him in difficult times -• Joy and rejoicing despite turmoil and adversity -• Singing hymn "It is Well with My Soul" -• Prayer for the congregation to be filled with truth and knowledge of Christ's reign -• Name tags for prayer team members -• God's blessing from Numbers 6 -• Worship songs and prayers -• Message about standing together and being almost home -• Praise the Lord and thanksgiving repeated multiple times \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - December 4, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - December 4, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index bcad8164cb4c0da47476a7968f8e8116a4e680ee..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - December 4, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1677 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 212.00] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 242.00] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 272.00] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 302.00] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 332.00] Thank you. -[332.00 --> 334.00] Thank you. -[362.00 --> 364.00] Thank you. -[392.00 --> 394.00] Thank you. -[422.00 --> 424.00] Sing that one more time. -[424.00 --> 426.00] Did you feel the darkness? -[426.00 --> 430.00] Did you feel the darkness tremble? -[430.00 --> 432.00] When all the saints? -[432.00 --> 436.00] When all the saints joined in one song? -[436.00 --> 448.00] And all the streams flowed as one river to wash away our brokenness. -[448.00 --> 454.00] Open up the doors. -[454.00 --> 456.00] Open up the doors. -[456.00 --> 458.00] Open up the doors. -[458.00 --> 464.00] And let the doors and let the music play. -[464.00 --> 468.00] Let the streets resound with singing. -[468.00 --> 470.00] Peace out with singing. -[470.00 --> 474.00] Peace out with singing. -[474.00 --> 476.00] With songs that bring you. -[476.00 --> 482.00] With songs that bring your joy. -[482.00 --> 484.00] And songs that bring your joy. -[484.00 --> 486.00] And all the dancers. -[486.00 --> 490.00] And all the dancers who dance upon injustice. -[490.00 --> 492.00] Oh, upon injustice. -[492.00 --> 494.00] Oh, upon injustice. -[494.00 --> 496.00] Oh, Lord. -[496.00 --> 498.00] Upon injustice. -[498.00 --> 502.00] Oh, Jesus. -[502.00 --> 503.00] Lord. -[503.00 --> 504.00] We dance upon injustice. -[504.00 --> 506.00] We dance upon the pride. -[506.00 --> 508.00] We dance upon the fear. -[508.00 --> 510.00] We dance upon insecurity, Lord. -[510.00 --> 512.00] We dance upon injustice. -[512.00 --> 514.00] Yeah. -[514.00 --> 516.00] Oh, upon injustice, Lord. -[516.00 --> 518.00] Injustice, Lord. -[518.00 --> 519.00] It's here no more. -[519.00 --> 520.00] It's here no more. -[520.00 --> 521.00] It's here no more. -[521.00 --> 522.00] Injustice, Lord. -[522.00 --> 523.00] It's here no more. -[523.00 --> 524.00] In Jesus' name. -[524.00 --> 525.00] Injustice, Lord. -[525.00 --> 526.00] Injustice, Lord. -[526.00 --> 531.00] Injustice, Lord. -[531.00 --> 534.00] It's here no more. -[534.00 --> 536.00] Injustice, Lord. -[538.00 --> 540.40] It's here no more. -[540.40 --> 543.00] In Jesus' name. -[546.00 --> 549.00] Injustice, Lord. -[549.00 --> 551.00] Injustice, Lord. -[551.00 --> 554.00] It's here no more. -[554.00 --> 566.24] Let me sing it one more time. -[566.24 --> 571.44] Open up the door. -[571.44 --> 576.44] Let me sing it one more time. -[576.44 --> 582.44] Let me sing it one more time. -[582.44 --> 585.04] These are your streets, Lord. -[585.04 --> 586.44] Bring your hope and joy. -[586.44 --> 606.04] Let me sing it one more time. -[606.04 --> 612.64] Open up the door. -[612.64 --> 618.64] Let the music play. -[618.64 --> 626.64] Let the streets resound in singing. -[626.64 --> 629.64] Woo! -[629.64 --> 634.64] Songs that bring your hope. -[634.64 --> 639.64] Songs that bring your hope. -[639.64 --> 643.64] Men to church resound in singing. -[643.64 --> 647.64] Come on, you're safe. -[647.64 --> 653.64] I believe when I first heard about the Tehillah praise, I thought I'd be like, I'm gonna -[653.64 --> 654.64] sing it one more time. -[654.64 --> 660.64] I believe when I first heard about the Tehillah praise, I thought the only kind of song that -[660.64 --> 667.64] we were talking about is a song that was just made up right there on the spot, which I think -[667.64 --> 669.64] that is something that we're doing already here tonight. -[669.64 --> 676.64] I also believe that you can take an old song and make it a new song if you sing it from your -[676.64 --> 678.64] heart and you mean it. -[678.64 --> 685.64] So as we sing this song, would you just lift up God's name and thank Him for the sacrifice -[685.64 --> 692.64] that He made on the cross for us. -[692.64 --> 694.64] For us. -[694.64 --> 695.64] But, Lord, we're gonna have to sing it one more time. -[695.64 --> 701.64] So as we sing this song, would you just lift up God's name and thank Him for the sacrifice -[701.64 --> 703.64] that He made on the cross for us. -[703.64 --> 704.64] For us. -[733.64 --> 735.64] Great mother. -[735.64 --> 736.64] Thank you. -[736.64 --> 737.64] Thank you. -[737.64 --> 754.28] You need Jackie, right. -[754.28 --> 755.32] Good. -[755.32 --> 759.10] David Johnson -[759.10 --> 760.90] Now that we're all awake, good morning. -[762.28 --> 764.64] Welcome to worship. -[764.96 --> 770.16] A special welcome if you are visiting with us this morning or if you're checking us out online. -[770.50 --> 778.40] We are glad that you are all here and that we can come together to worship our good God this morning. -[779.16 --> 781.94] Before we begin, we have a couple announcements. -[781.94 --> 792.48] We have been advertising for a new members class that's going to happen today after our worship here. -[792.72 --> 798.50] And so if you are a guest with us, if you've been here for a little while and you have some questions -[798.50 --> 806.02] or you want to wonder together about what membership here looks like and what that means for you and for us with you, -[806.32 --> 807.68] this is the class to come to. -[807.68 --> 814.12] And so we are going to go after service, grab a coffee, say hi to a friend, -[814.22 --> 817.74] and then we're going to head down the hallway on the right to the very end. -[818.16 --> 820.40] Very end of the hallway, room 114. -[820.68 --> 822.12] That's where we're going to be located. -[822.40 --> 826.32] So I encourage you to come with your questions and chat there. -[827.52 --> 833.58] The reason we are going down to the end of the hallway is because there's a kids' choir practice after service this morning. -[833.58 --> 838.72] And so kids who are participating in that, you go to the multi-purpose room. -[839.00 --> 842.32] Mark will be there and he will get you going in that regard. -[843.38 --> 848.58] The kids' choir is for an event that we are hosting on December 18th. -[848.58 --> 851.30] December 18th in the evening at 6 p.m. -[851.30 --> 857.18] We are having a choir concert and a traditional carol and hymn sing along with that. -[857.88 --> 865.00] We have made some invitations that if you have a mailbox here, they're in your mailbox. -[865.30 --> 871.36] There's also some other invitations at the Connect table in the back there that you can take and use to give to your neighbor -[871.36 --> 878.30] or a friend or a family member and invite them to participate in that evening of our shared worship -[878.30 --> 880.94] and Christmas caroling together. -[881.30 --> 888.62] Also, December 9th is the women's Christmas evening. -[888.80 --> 890.36] You can still sign up for that at the back. -[891.52 --> 895.16] There's coming up on 100 people signed up for that, which is amazing. -[895.46 --> 897.20] And I trust that that will be awesome. -[897.46 --> 899.94] And so sign up for that at the back, ladies. -[900.18 --> 904.16] And if you have any questions, there will be some people there who can address those with you. -[904.16 --> 912.18] Additionally, this afternoon after service is Youth Coffee at Paul and Leslie Kuhl's house. -[912.28 --> 913.36] Paul and Leslie, wave your hand. -[913.82 --> 915.68] If you don't know where that is, you can talk to them. -[915.82 --> 916.50] They will get you there. -[916.50 --> 925.16] And this evening, our young adults are heading over to Maple Ridge Church for a combined young adult worship event. -[925.62 --> 929.52] So if you have any questions on that, you can find a young adult. -[929.58 --> 931.10] I don't see Josh yet this morning. -[932.20 --> 932.54] Okay. -[932.68 --> 933.86] We'll have a meeting this week. -[933.86 --> 939.62] But if you have any questions about that, grab Pastor Kevin or myself. -[939.92 --> 943.12] And if Josh shows up, him will give you details on that. -[943.70 --> 947.76] And then lastly, next weekend is a youth lock-in event. -[948.56 --> 950.60] And so that's Friday to Saturday. -[951.38 --> 954.10] If you have any questions on that, you can grab Pastor Kevin. -[955.68 --> 956.86] I think that's it. -[957.08 --> 957.64] Did I get them all? -[957.76 --> 957.96] Maybe? -[958.10 --> 959.10] That was a long list of things. -[959.30 --> 959.50] Okay. -[959.50 --> 962.34] We are going to worship God together. -[962.48 --> 970.10] And so I'm going to invite you, as you are able to stand, we might be called and ushered into God's presence by the receiving of his greeting. -[970.86 --> 976.38] After we have been greeted by God, we will light our next Advent candle. -[976.64 --> 981.58] And so, Joan and Juanita, if you can come to the front just after the greeting, we can transition that way. -[983.64 --> 986.44] In the presence of God, receive his greeting. -[987.70 --> 988.14] Grace. -[989.00 --> 989.40] Mercy. -[989.50 --> 990.86] And peace to you. -[991.36 --> 992.44] From God, our Father. -[992.52 --> 995.42] From the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior. -[995.90 --> 998.68] Through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[1000.00 --> 1000.44] Amen. -[1000.44 --> 1000.54] Amen. -[1019.50 --> 1032.80] Advent is a season of waiting, waiting for the light in the darkness, waiting to be filled while empty, waiting for the return of the King. -[1032.80 --> 1034.80] From the beginning, Christians have faith. -[1034.80 --> 1039.06] From the beginning, Christians have faith, death, and persecution for our faith. -[1039.06 --> 1047.00] While we live in a time and place of relative peace and ease, we know that this is not true for many of our brothers and sisters around the world. -[1047.00 --> 1050.00] Nor has it always been true for Christians throughout history. -[1050.00 --> 1051.18] Nor has it always been true for Christians throughout history. -[1051.18 --> 1053.22] And maybe it won't be true for us in the future. -[1053.22 --> 1060.10] And yet, we know that the greater ending to come will bring utter and complete joy for those who believe. -[1060.10 --> 1074.34] Living in anticipation of the return of the King invites us to be a people of patient endurance and faith, who can live with rejoicing in the world to come, and with deep joy in the world that is. -[1074.34 --> 1080.30] We light this candle as a reminder of our joy, persisting in the darkness as we wait. -[1084.88 --> 1087.32] The voice of the world is loud. -[1087.96 --> 1089.76] The darkness is deep. -[1090.52 --> 1094.44] Into the chaos and confusion, Jesus speaks with the clarion call. -[1095.10 --> 1096.84] I am the light of the world. -[1097.52 --> 1099.68] You will be a light to the world. -[1104.34 --> 1107.90] pressure the lines and joy -[1109.18 --> 1114.68] in the light ofstop turning to the alien sa hatten' -[1114.94 --> 1115.94] And sermons in a little bit more boldly. -[1116.94 --> 1118.06] I am the president at the artist's geldi speaks withingen within maroon -[1118.06 --> 1122.62] and the composer which I look again like confirm. -[1123.02 --> 1126.44] After the current film I hear you, Father, God, after all, he is strong. -[1130.88 --> 1133.60] Ooh dice, otras lyàn to the saints, -[1133.60 --> 1144.58] From the squalor of the borrowed stable, by the spirit and of urgent pain, -[1144.58 --> 1155.50] to the anguish and the shame of scandal, came the sinner of the human race. -[1155.50 --> 1166.32] When the skies were filled with the rays of them, shepherds listened and the angels said, -[1166.32 --> 1176.52] Hold the gift of faith, come down to them, bow the dawning of Emmanuel. -[1176.52 --> 1192.34] King of heaven, now the friend of sinners, humble servant in the Father's hands, -[1192.34 --> 1202.34] filled with power and the Holy Spirit, filled with mercy for the broken man. -[1202.34 --> 1214.20] Yes, he walked my road and he felt my pain, joys and sorrows that I know so well. -[1214.20 --> 1224.62] In his righteousness, giving hope again, I will follow the Emmanuel. -[1224.62 --> 1241.10] Through the kisses of a friend's betrayal, he was lifted on a cruel cross. -[1241.10 --> 1246.86] He was punished for the world's transgressions. -[1247.06 --> 1252.32] He was suffering to save the lost. -[1252.32 --> 1258.68] He fights for birth, he fights for me, -[1258.68 --> 1263.40] Loosing sinners from the claims of death, -[1263.40 --> 1269.26] And with the shame our souls are free, -[1269.26 --> 1273.26] Left in the body of heaven. -[1273.26 --> 1285.44] while I pray to form God, -[1285.44 --> 1293.08] sing in thy NASS apost ditches to save Himself to our northern love. -[1293.08 --> 1295.64] His only love -[1295.64 --> 1298.20] Till His Father -[1298.20 --> 1301.10] Must be born -[1301.10 --> 1305.02] In the skies we'll burn -[1305.02 --> 1308.28] As the trumpet sounds -[1308.28 --> 1310.46] The world's heaven -[1310.46 --> 1312.98] Without fear of death -[1312.98 --> 1315.60] With the bride we'll walk -[1315.60 --> 1318.88] Till your lover's last -[1318.88 --> 1322.88] Give glory to the Lord -[1322.88 --> 1327.64] In the skies we'll burn -[1327.64 --> 1330.94] As the trumpet sounds -[1330.94 --> 1333.18] The love of heaven -[1333.18 --> 1335.78] Or the fear of hell -[1335.78 --> 1338.50] But the bride we'll walk -[1338.50 --> 1341.94] To her lover's house -[1341.94 --> 1346.46] Giving glory to the Lord -[1346.46 --> 1374.30] To your token -[1374.30 --> 1391.76] What gift of grace is Jesus my Redeemer? -[1391.76 --> 1398.76] There is no more for heaven now to give. -[1398.76 --> 1406.20] He is my joy, my righteousness and freedom, -[1406.20 --> 1413.76] my steadfast love, my deep and foulest peace. -[1413.76 --> 1420.76] To this I roll, my hope is holy, Jesus, -[1420.76 --> 1428.74] for my life is holy, bound to His love. -[1428.76 --> 1435.64] Oh, how sweet and beyond, I can see God is one, -[1435.64 --> 1440.94] yet not I can through Christ in me. -[1440.94 --> 1457.82] The night is dark, but I am not forsaken, -[1457.82 --> 1464.70] for in my sight, the Savior, He will stay. -[1464.70 --> 1471.58] I labor on in weakness and rejoicing, -[1471.58 --> 1477.58] for in my need, His power is to speak. -[1477.58 --> 1486.46] To this I roll, my shepherd will defend me, -[1486.46 --> 1492.46] through the deepest valley He will lead me. -[1492.46 --> 1499.34] Oh, how sweet and beyond, I can see God is one, -[1499.34 --> 1503.34] I can see God is one, I can see God is one, -[1503.34 --> 1516.22] God is one, I can see God is one, I can see God is one, -[1516.22 --> 1522.22] so pleased I dread, I know I am forgiven. -[1522.22 --> 1531.10] The future sure, the price it has been paid. -[1531.10 --> 1537.10] For Jesus bled and suffered for my garden, -[1537.10 --> 1543.98] and He was raised to overthrow the grave. -[1543.98 --> 1549.98] To this I roll, my sin has been defeated, -[1549.98 --> 1557.98] now Jesus now and ever is my King. -[1557.98 --> 1564.86] And I can change me, I can see God is one, -[1564.86 --> 1568.86] I can see God is one, I can see God is one, -[1568.86 --> 1572.86] and He will be with me. -[1572.86 --> 1576.86] And I will be with you. -[1576.86 --> 1580.86] And I will be with you. -[1580.86 --> 1586.86] With every prayer, I long to follow Jesus, -[1586.86 --> 1595.74] for He has said that He will bring me home. -[1595.74 --> 1601.74] And day by day, I know He will be with me, -[1601.74 --> 1607.74] until I stand with joy before the Lord. -[1607.74 --> 1615.74] To this I roll, my hope is all redeemed of. -[1615.74 --> 1622.62] For the glory evermore to you. -[1622.62 --> 1625.62] And the grace is renewed, -[1625.62 --> 1629.62] so I live, shall we be, -[1629.62 --> 1635.62] that you're ever with us in me. -[1635.62 --> 1643.50] To this I hold, my hope is only Jesus. -[1643.50 --> 1650.50] Oh, the glory evermore to Him. -[1650.50 --> 1657.50] When the race is complete, still my lips shall repeat, -[1657.50 --> 1664.38] yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[1664.38 --> 1667.38] When the race is complete, -[1667.38 --> 1671.38] still my lips shall repeat, -[1671.38 --> 1678.38] yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[1678.38 --> 1686.26] When the grace is complete, still my lips shall repeat, -[1686.26 --> 1689.26] yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[1689.26 --> 1699.14] When the grace is complete, still my lips shall repeat, -[1699.14 --> 1703.14] yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[1703.14 --> 1706.14] Our confession and assurance comes to us from Psalm 13. -[1706.14 --> 1707.14] Psalm 13. -[1707.14 --> 1708.14] How long, O Lord? -[1708.14 --> 1709.14] How long, O Lord? -[1709.14 --> 1711.14] Will you forget me forever? -[1711.14 --> 1716.02] How long will you hide your face from me? -[1716.02 --> 1720.02] How long must I take counsel in my soul, -[1720.02 --> 1724.02] and have sorrow in my heart all the day? -[1724.02 --> 1728.02] How long shall my enemy be exalted over me? -[1728.02 --> 1732.90] Consider and answer me, O Lord my God. -[1732.90 --> 1737.90] Light up my eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death. -[1737.90 --> 1742.40] Lest my enemies say, I have prevailed over him. -[1742.40 --> 1746.98] Lest my foes rejoice, because I am shaken. -[1746.98 --> 1750.32] But I have trusted in your steadfast love. -[1750.32 --> 1754.40] My heart shall rejoice in your salvation. -[1754.40 --> 1756.82] I will sing to the Lord, -[1756.82 --> 1759.20] because he has dealt bountifully with me. -[1786.82 --> 1792.82] He has dealt with you. -[1792.82 --> 1795.20] He has dealt with you. -[1795.20 --> 1799.20] We have prayed to you forever. -[1799.20 --> 1803.20] We have cried for your compassion, -[1803.20 --> 1806.20] to renew the land of the earth. -[1806.20 --> 1810.34] You will serve me in your presence, -[1810.34 --> 1813.74] our heart will be in your heart. -[1813.74 --> 1817.12] You are on your steps of mercy, -[1817.12 --> 1822.12] and we're knocking at your door. -[1822.12 --> 1829.12] How long before you touch the barren land? -[1829.12 --> 1836.50] How long before we see your righteous hand? -[1836.50 --> 1844.12] How long before your name is left to die? -[1844.12 --> 1851.12] How long before the weeping turns to stop the truth? -[1851.12 --> 1859.12] How long before the weeping turns to stop the truth? -[1859.12 --> 1863.50] We know your heart is broken, -[1863.50 --> 1866.50] by the evil that you see. -[1866.50 --> 1870.50] And you've stayed your hand on judgment, -[1870.50 --> 1874.04] for you planned to set him free. -[1874.04 --> 1878.00] But the land is still in darkness, -[1878.00 --> 1881.60] and we fail from what is right. -[1881.60 --> 1888.86] We have failed to slide the children, though we'll never see the light. -[1888.86 --> 1903.80] How long before you change the plan? How long before we see your righteous hand? -[1903.80 --> 1918.86] How long before your name is lifted? How long before the leaders to stand? -[1918.86 --> 1925.86] How long before you change the plan? -[1925.86 --> 1933.86] When the day is coming, when the death will hear its voice. -[1933.86 --> 1940.86] When the world screams and the spirit will hear the truth. -[1940.86 --> 1947.86] When the world finds a husband, when the life is lifted? -[1947.86 --> 1954.86] When the earth can burn to my birth, when the man is lifted? -[1954.86 --> 1962.86] How long before your name is lifted? How long before your name is lifted? -[1962.86 --> 1976.86] How long before your rain and tears arise? How long before your fear until the Lord? -[1976.86 --> 1987.86] How long before the earth returns with salt and salt? -[1987.86 --> 1994.86] How long before your name is heated? How long before your меся� так력s? -[1994.86 --> 2000.86] How long before your pain is lifted? How long before your baixewend loans will be contemporâne by congregate m Muslim, -[2000.86 --> 2001.86] while the mother of b legislatures of the bus. -[2001.86 --> 2003.86] How long before your name is lifted? How long before your name is lifted? -[2003.86 --> 2007.86] How long before your trite worth? Poor father's weak lidtLED mercy Estánd Theför with the nation of the savyred. -[2007.86 --> 2008.86] absente動ist the earth that the Lord desires and систем. -[2008.86 --> 2009.86] Chim Holizer's�ằng the current celle of the truth. -[2010.86 --> 2013.86] How long before it will Jesus Rama ride by offering blood on fire. -[2013.86 --> 2018.30] Father to you -[2018.30 --> 2021.74] In songs of love we come -[2021.74 --> 2025.30] Into your presence -[2025.30 --> 2028.76] In all of all you've done -[2028.76 --> 2032.70] Lord, dear, enjoy -[2032.70 --> 2036.66] Before your glory of grace -[2036.66 --> 2040.86] And in the Son you love -[2040.86 --> 2044.98] Give at our praise -[2044.98 --> 2051.00] What grace to the crown in heaven -[2051.00 --> 2055.18] Heaven's glorious King -[2055.18 --> 2061.72] Father, what grace -[2061.72 --> 2065.04] Raising us to one -[2065.04 --> 2070.18] Choosing us in Christ -[2070.18 --> 2075.42] Father, what grace -[2075.42 --> 2084.14] Deep is the joy -[2084.14 --> 2087.30] That fills your courts above -[2087.30 --> 2090.98] While angels wonder -[2090.98 --> 2094.82] At your redeeming love -[2094.82 --> 2098.68] And as you gaze -[2098.68 --> 2101.94] With joy upon your side -[2101.94 --> 2106.54] Your eyes are on the ones -[2106.54 --> 2109.78] His love has won -[2109.78 --> 2115.94] What grace to the crown in heaven -[2115.94 --> 2121.26] Heaven's glorious King -[2121.26 --> 2126.06] Father, what grace -[2126.06 --> 2129.90] Raising us to one -[2129.90 --> 2135.18] Choosing us in Christ -[2135.18 --> 2140.42] Father, what grace -[2140.42 --> 2141.30] Father, what grace -[2141.30 --> 2150.10] No higher call -[2150.10 --> 2153.72] Than to be held with Him -[2153.72 --> 2156.86] So let our passion -[2156.86 --> 2161.14] Burn for heavenly things -[2161.14 --> 2164.00] Sweet and Christ -[2164.00 --> 2167.92] For Him are known to live -[2167.92 --> 2172.14] Our hearts forever where -[2172.14 --> 2176.14] Our treasure is -[2176.14 --> 2177.14] What grace to the crown in heaven -[2177.14 --> 2179.38] What grace to the crown in heaven -[2179.38 --> 2183.46] What grace to the crown in heaven -[2183.46 --> 2188.06] And His glorious King -[2188.06 --> 2193.46] Father, what grace to the crown in heaven -[2193.46 --> 2194.46] Father, what grace -[2194.46 --> 2195.46] Praise and grace to the crown in heaven -[2195.46 --> 2196.46] Praise and grace to the crown in heaven -[2196.46 --> 2198.46] Praise and grace to the crown in heaven -[2198.46 --> 2199.46] For grace to the crown in heaven -[2199.46 --> 2202.16] And His glorious King -[2202.16 --> 2207.44] Father, what grace -[2207.44 --> 2211.58] Practice and grace to the crown in heaven -[2211.58 --> 2213.90] Heaven's glorious King -[2213.90 --> 2216.24] Father, what grace -[2216.24 --> 2218.58] Praise and grace to the crown in heaven -[2218.58 --> 2220.10] transcended tall -[2220.10 --> 2220.72] Fin에서 DC -[2220.72 --> 2221.44] geben by grace to the crown in heaven -[2221.44 --> 2221.80] Pfテメ -[2221.80 --> 2222.18] Erfahrda -[2222.18 --> 2224.16] lawsuit -[2224.16 --> 2224.92] skilled -[2224.92 --> 2226.02] Para wheelchair -[2226.02 --> 2226.12] entity -[2226.12 --> 2227.56] lares -[2227.56 --> 2233.56] I shall be here, Father, one. -[2233.56 --> 2234.56] I pray. -[2234.56 --> 2237.56] I pray. -[2237.56 --> 2241.56] I pray. -[2241.56 --> 2245.56] I pray. -[2245.56 --> 2249.56] I pray. -[2249.56 --> 2253.56] I pray. -[2253.56 --> 2263.56] I pray. -[2267.56 --> 2279.56] This morning in our worship together, we are excited to officially welcome the Nordham family, who have been worshiping with us for some time. -[2279.56 --> 2284.56] Nico and Denise, mom and dad, Nordham, are already involved in different ministries. -[2284.56 --> 2288.56] Denise is connected to Coffee Break and Nico to Cadets. -[2288.56 --> 2296.56] And so this morning, we are going to officially welcome them into our church family as members. -[2296.56 --> 2304.56] And so if you're joining us later in the new members class, this is one of the steps along that journey. -[2304.56 --> 2312.56] And so in just a moment, I'm going to invite you guys up to the front and you can just take a spot somewhere up here. -[2312.56 --> 2313.56] Find room. -[2313.56 --> 2316.56] But come when I call. -[2316.56 --> 2321.56] Nico, Denise, Levi, Austin, Karis, and Isla. -[2321.56 --> 2326.56] We want to welcome you into the fellowship of this church. -[2326.56 --> 2346.56] It's our hope and prayer that here your faith in God will be strengthened, that your love for Jesus will be grown, and that you will find continued opportunity to serve in the spirit as you join with us on mission for Jesus in the world through Langley and beyond. -[2346.56 --> 2353.56] As we welcome you into our church family, we're going to ask you to affirm your faith with a few questions. -[2353.56 --> 2355.56] And so I'm going to invite you to come up. -[2355.56 --> 2358.56] If the kids want to come, they are more than welcome to as well. -[2358.56 --> 2359.56] Come on up. -[2359.56 --> 2361.56] Why don't you guys come over here? -[2361.56 --> 2374.56] I won't make you stand in the middle. -[2374.56 --> 2379.56] All right. -[2379.56 --> 2389.56] So I'm going to ask three questions and then I will hand you the microphone to give you a response. -[2389.56 --> 2396.56] Mom and Dad are going to answer on behalf of everyone, but if you guys want to answer too, you can. -[2396.56 --> 2397.56] No. -[2398.56 --> 2400.56] We'll work on that. -[2400.56 --> 2410.56] One, do you believe in Jesus as your Savior and Lord and that in Him alone is hope and freedom from sin found? -[2410.56 --> 2422.56] Two, do you believe that the Bible is the Word of God revealing His plan for redemption in Jesus Christ and that the preaching and teaching of Langley and Emmanuel reflect this truth? -[2422.56 --> 2435.56] And three, do you promise with the help of the Holy Spirit and the church here to do all that you can to strengthen your relationship to Jesus by being a part of this church family? -[2435.56 --> 2444.56] Do you recognize its oversight and authority and join with us on mission for Jesus in this community, in this city, and to the world? -[2444.56 --> 2447.56] Nico and Denise, what is your answer? -[2447.56 --> 2450.56] We do. -[2450.56 --> 2451.56] We do. -[2451.56 --> 2452.56] God helping us. -[2452.56 --> 2453.56] Excellent. -[2453.56 --> 2455.56] Thank you very much. -[2455.56 --> 2459.56] Welcome officially to our church family. -[2459.56 --> 2460.56] You guys can go. -[2460.56 --> 2478.56] Nico and Denise love being the center of attention and so please grab them after the service and welcome them and embrace them with your love. -[2478.56 --> 2483.56] Deacons, would you introduce the offering for us at this point? -[2483.56 --> 2496.56] Not that short. -[2496.56 --> 2497.56] Sorry. -[2497.56 --> 2500.56] Good morning. -[2500.56 --> 2516.56] Today the offerings are for our budget, for all the programs of our church and for the ongoing expenses. -[2516.56 --> 2519.56] The second is for Langley Food Bank. -[2519.56 --> 2526.62] At this time of year, there is more need for extra support besides the regular food twice a week. -[2526.62 --> 2530.60] They need money to buy items that don't get donated. -[2531.40 --> 2538.04] Please give generously and cheerfully and pray that they can help those they serve. -[2538.44 --> 2548.88] Right now, they need individual packaged granola bars, applesauce, pudding cups, dry beans, and juice boxes. -[2548.88 --> 2552.80] Canned fruit, meat, and fish, and rice. -[2553.46 --> 2554.40] A big list. -[2555.02 --> 2557.56] Next week, we will have a reverse offering. -[2558.38 --> 2565.74] If you know someone who you could bless with an extra gift card, then you can take one or two at that time. -[2578.88 --> 2589.10] We hold the star of Bethlehem. -[2589.10 --> 2595.60] The word of God has made the flesh. -[2595.60 --> 2601.22] Until us, a child is born. -[2601.70 --> 2606.82] The Savior of this broken world. -[2608.70 --> 2613.78] Hear the angel voices. -[2613.78 --> 2620.84] Sing, come, let us adore Him. -[2620.84 --> 2628.84] Peace, us now, for our King is with us. -[2628.84 --> 2633.84] Fully gone. -[2633.84 --> 2635.64] Fully gone. -[2635.90 --> 2638.62] Fully now. -[2638.62 --> 2641.72] He comes for all. -[2641.72 --> 2644.70] With open hands. -[2644.70 --> 2647.64] He rules with love. -[2647.90 --> 2650.38] On David's throne. -[2650.80 --> 2653.06] All praise belongs. -[2653.70 --> 2655.72] To Christ alone. -[2655.72 --> 2662.64] O hear the angel voices. -[2662.64 --> 2669.28] Sing, come, let us adore Him. -[2669.28 --> 2676.86] Peace has come, and our King is with us. -[2676.86 --> 2706.84] Peace has come, and our King is with us. -[2706.84 --> 2710.76] Let us adore Him. -[2710.76 --> 2716.72] O come, let us adore Him. -[2716.72 --> 2722.40] O come, let us adore Him. -[2722.40 --> 2726.76] In Christ alone. -[2726.76 --> 2734.40] O come, let us adore Him. -[2734.40 --> 2740.32] O come, let us adore Him. -[2740.32 --> 2742.28] O come, let us adore Him. -[2742.28 --> 2744.28] O come, let us adore Him. -[2744.28 --> 2746.28] O come, let us adore Him. -[2746.28 --> 2750.28] In Christ alone. -[2750.28 --> 2760.16] O come, let us adore Him. -[2760.16 --> 2762.16] O come, let us adore Him. -[2762.16 --> 2764.16] O come, let us adore Him. -[2764.16 --> 2776.04] O come, let us adore Him. -[2776.04 --> 2787.92] O come, let us adore Him. -[2787.92 --> 2789.92] O come, let us adore Him. -[2789.92 --> 2791.92] O come, let us adore Him. -[2791.92 --> 2795.80] O come, let us adore Him. -[2795.80 --> 2799.80] O come, let us adore Him. -[2799.80 --> 2801.68] O come, let us adore Him. -[2801.68 --> 2803.68] O come, let us adore Him. -[2803.68 --> 2805.72] O come, let us adore Him. -[2805.72 --> 2807.60] O come, let us adore Him. -[2807.60 --> 2809.60] O come, let us adore Him. -[2809.60 --> 2811.60] O come, let us adore Him. -[2811.60 --> 2815.60] O come, let us adore Him. -[2815.60 --> 2817.48] And hopefully, it's good to do. -[2817.48 --> 2821.10] So today, the last time we're going to try and worship. -[2821.10 --> 2824.88] If it doesn't work today, then we'll just post it online and y'all can see it there. -[2824.88 --> 2832.12] But I think, Levi, Dave, are we good to go? -[2832.86 --> 2836.86] To canta bo Santo, Santo -[2839.60 --> 2841.52] Santo Santo -[2846.48 --> 2848.44] Santo -[2849.82 --> 2850.82] Santo -[2852.12 --> 2854.72] Yo quiero verte -[2856.12 --> 2860.88] Yo quiero verte -[2860.88 --> 2875.76] Shanto, shanto, shanto, shanto, shanto, shanto, shanto, shanto, shanto, shanto, shanto, yo quiero verte. -[2875.76 --> 2890.28] Y el respaldo tan de gloria. -[2890.88 --> 2897.02] Derrama tu amor y poder cuando cantamos. -[2897.02 --> 2902.48] Emperación está el mu loves estado. -[2902.58 --> 2907.00] Dieraitario del tropico. -[2907.86 --> 2913.74] Derrama tu amor y poder cuando cantamos. -[2914.88 --> 2917.72] Shanto, shanto, shanto, shanto, shanto. -[2917.72 --> 2934.72] Athena -[2935.66 --> 2940.66] I -[2947.72 --> 2950.10] So qui lo verte. -[2952.16 --> 2954.30] So qui lo verte. -[2956.36 --> 2958.56] So qui lo verte. -[2972.88 --> 2973.98] Of course that's in there. -[2975.74 --> 2977.42] So there's the video and all that. -[2977.72 --> 2983.42] It's kind of a good segue into we're already planning for 2023 and the spring trip then. -[2984.20 --> 2986.68] So with that, we are starting the sign up. -[2986.98 --> 2990.48] The sign up will be kind of back there on one of the tables over there. -[2990.52 --> 2993.22] And that's for all members of the church, really. -[2993.58 --> 2998.46] Young adults, youth, older adults, if you want to call it that. -[2999.56 --> 3002.48] Grade 10s to 12 for the youth are welcome to come. -[3003.36 --> 3005.22] The cutoff is grade 10 for that. -[3005.86 --> 3010.88] But we will be doing it again in the spring, like the, what do you call that, spring break for the kids. -[3011.56 --> 3014.44] So the actual dates of the trip aren't fully planned yet. -[3014.92 --> 3017.46] But it will be somewhere in that March 11th to the 27th. -[3018.12 --> 3021.00] The trip cost will be the same as it was last year. -[3021.06 --> 3025.12] It will be $11.50 for each adult youth leader, things like that. -[3025.12 --> 3035.36] The sign up, the only thing that's different for the youth especially that's compared to last year is we're going to move everything kind of, besides the actual registration, everything else will be moved online. -[3035.36 --> 3038.80] What that means is I don't want photocopies of your passports anymore. -[3039.06 --> 3041.06] Just send them in an email, just a picture. -[3042.26 --> 3045.76] We're going to put them in a Google Drive like we did last year, and it's just a lot easier to do it that way. -[3046.18 --> 3052.68] Then the leaders can access your health care and all that anywhere they are instead of always having to have this piece of paper with them. -[3053.32 --> 3055.20] So that's the big one, big change. -[3055.52 --> 3058.88] Due date for this will also be Christmas Day, March 25th. -[3058.88 --> 3064.08] Then our first meeting will be on, I think it's January 15th of the Sunday, which is just two weeks after New Year's. -[3065.12 --> 3071.70] Leaders, if you are wanting to come on this trip as a youth leader, please fill out the application as well, do the deposit and all that. -[3071.78 --> 3078.56] But also, can you just text me that you're planning on coming just so I can have a kind of a general idea of numbers and if we need more male or female leaders, -[3078.78 --> 3081.28] then I can pressure and guilt trip the rest of them. -[3081.54 --> 3082.90] So thank you. -[3088.88 --> 3092.54] All right. -[3093.24 --> 3099.70] Any kids that are here who are age three, up to grade four, welcome to come join me up front. -[3103.26 --> 3103.78] Hello. -[3110.50 --> 3112.10] Oh, you're so far away. -[3112.54 --> 3114.24] You're going to have a hard time seeing the pictures. -[3115.00 --> 3118.50] You can scooch forward or use your binocular eyes. -[3118.88 --> 3128.00] So today in children's worship time, we are going to be talking about God's purpose. -[3128.78 --> 3136.16] And we're going to be talking about how it is so important that we listen to God when we're trying to figure out what our purpose is. -[3136.74 --> 3140.64] Now, we've also been reading this Christmas book up front here. -[3140.72 --> 3144.14] So we're going to continue on with the grandpa's story today. -[3144.14 --> 3152.38] And I think you'll find as an example that what we're going to read today is an example of people not listening to what God's purpose is. -[3153.18 --> 3154.82] So let's continue on. -[3154.88 --> 3160.74] So if you weren't here last week, the grandpa was telling a story to his grandson named Charlie. -[3160.74 --> 3164.16] And so this is the very beginning of the story. -[3167.16 --> 3170.66] Once upon a time, there was a great king who was the king of light. -[3170.66 --> 3172.22] He lived in the light. -[3172.22 --> 3178.82] He made the light and his light was so perfect and pure that he was called the king without a shadow. -[3179.56 --> 3186.62] This great king of light made a group of people and he made them so that they could shine brightly just as he did. -[3187.14 --> 3189.00] He called them his little lightlings. -[3189.70 --> 3193.36] He set the lightlings in a beautiful garden that he had prepared for them. -[3193.36 --> 3196.26] A garden that was full of bright sunshine. -[3196.98 --> 3202.66] The sun bathed the garden every day and helped the flowers, plants, and fruit grow in great abundance. -[3203.76 --> 3206.84] The bright light of the sun helped keep everyone warm in the garden. -[3207.52 --> 3211.38] The lightlings loved it when the king came to visit them at the end of the day. -[3214.22 --> 3216.46] But one day, something terrible happened. -[3217.10 --> 3222.06] The lightlings decided to do what they wanted instead of what their king commanded them to do. -[3222.06 --> 3226.06] So they disobeyed the king and sinned against him. -[3226.78 --> 3232.66] The very moment they sinned, their light became dim and they were filled with shame and great embarrassment. -[3233.50 --> 3236.34] They ran as fast as they could to get away from the king. -[3236.80 --> 3238.78] They didn't want the king of light to see them. -[3239.36 --> 3244.46] They ran out of the garden and into the woods and hid themselves in the darkest place they could find. -[3245.24 --> 3251.24] From then on, they were afraid of the light because they knew that where the light was, the king would be. -[3251.24 --> 3253.64] And the king would see them in their shame. -[3257.48 --> 3258.84] I'll show you one more picture. -[3262.42 --> 3264.00] We're going to finish the story right there. -[3264.10 --> 3269.86] It's kind of a blessing part to finish, but you'll have to wait until next week to find out what happens. -[3271.18 --> 3276.78] Before we go to children's worship time, let's stand up and let's bless the rest of our church family and receive their blessing. -[3276.78 --> 3282.02] Ready? -[3282.02 --> 3285.02] The Lord be with you. -[3285.02 --> 3287.14] The Lord be with you. -[3287.14 --> 3309.42] Good morning. -[3309.42 --> 3310.98] My name is Ken. -[3311.14 --> 3316.50] I'm an elder here at Emmanuel Christian Reformed Church and I will be leading us in our church family prayer this morning. -[3317.10 --> 3319.40] Before we do that, just a couple things to point out. -[3319.60 --> 3326.14] First, next Sunday is going to be our Sunday that we participate in communion and come together at the table for the Lord's Supper. -[3326.64 --> 3328.92] And so you're encouraged to think about that this week. -[3329.06 --> 3333.02] Prepare your hearts for that and talk to your kids about it and what we're doing and what it means. -[3333.02 --> 3344.52] And after the service next Sunday, we're also going to have a special cake and coffee celebration for the many years that Sylvia Welfing has poured into the administrative team here at Emmanuel. -[3345.08 --> 3353.86] And you're all welcome to join us there as well as we give our thanks and well wishes to Sylvia in her next step of her journey of her career. -[3353.86 --> 3358.68] And now let's bow our heads and come to our Lord in prayer. -[3360.30 --> 3367.36] Our Father in heaven, we're thankful that we can gather together to praise and glorify your name together this beautiful morning. -[3368.10 --> 3373.92] In this time of Advent waiting, as we look ahead to again celebrating the birth of Christ's child, -[3374.38 --> 3382.32] we are so thankful and amazed at how you came into the world in the humblest of ways to live among us, to be able to relate to us. -[3382.32 --> 3386.40] Meekness and majesty, what a mystery. -[3387.42 --> 3392.56] Lord, we thank you for filling our hearts with the joy of our salvation in this time and place. -[3393.12 --> 3397.22] And we pray that you continue to fill us in all times and all places. -[3398.52 --> 3402.80] As we've just sung, Lord, peace has come and our King is with us. -[3403.50 --> 3408.48] Thank you for always being with us, even when we're distracted by the things of this world. -[3408.48 --> 3414.90] But even as you're saved people living in the certainty that peace has come, -[3415.40 --> 3418.20] Lord, we acknowledge that we still have challenges, hurts, and struggles. -[3418.62 --> 3422.68] And we bring those to you together as a community of your people this morning. -[3423.88 --> 3427.82] Lord, as your people, we are struggling with mental health and anxiety. -[3428.76 --> 3430.96] Replace the fear in us with your peace. -[3432.22 --> 3435.42] Lord, we're hurting from the loss of dear loved ones. -[3435.42 --> 3438.96] Replace the grief in us with your peace. -[3440.02 --> 3443.52] Lord, we're burdened with strained and damaged relationships. -[3444.66 --> 3447.52] Replace the brokenness in us with your peace. -[3448.68 --> 3451.78] And Lord, some of us are sick with illnesses and failing bodies. -[3452.36 --> 3456.10] We ask that you please restore our health and heal our sicknesses and diseases. -[3456.10 --> 3465.24] Lord, some are trapped in addictions to chemicals, to behaviors, or to the deceit of so-called pleasures of this world. -[3466.20 --> 3469.28] Break the chains of addictions, Lord, in our lives. -[3469.66 --> 3473.40] And help us experience the freedom and peace of overcoming addiction. -[3473.40 --> 3480.06] Lord, we can be overwhelmed with the challenges of exams and projects as the school semester ends. -[3480.86 --> 3485.50] Give us clear and sharp minds to learn and to grow in knowledge and understanding. -[3485.88 --> 3488.22] And to develop the gifts that you have given us. -[3489.30 --> 3494.92] Lord, we can be stressed by new and ongoing challenges in our finances and business and work. -[3495.68 --> 3500.56] Help us trust in you alone as the source and provider of everything we need. -[3500.56 --> 3504.52] Lord, we confess that we don't always put our whole trust in you. -[3504.96 --> 3510.32] And that we find it difficult to let go of the false hope that we can place in self-sufficiency. -[3511.66 --> 3514.94] Help us offer up our first fruits to you. -[3515.44 --> 3517.20] And to seek first your kingdom. -[3517.62 --> 3521.40] Knowing full well that where our treasure is, there our hearts will be also. -[3523.26 --> 3525.40] Lord, we feel hopeless at times. -[3525.40 --> 3529.30] As the world faces turmoils of ongoing wars and unrest. -[3529.30 --> 3535.46] We particularly think of Ukraine and Haiti and so many other places currently in turmoil. -[3536.32 --> 3539.48] Lord, please end the conflicts, the hatred, and the wars. -[3540.10 --> 3544.74] And bring political peace through the true shalom peace that only you can give. -[3546.30 --> 3550.66] Lord, we pray for each one in our congregation who's experiencing specific needs. -[3550.96 --> 3552.66] Either publicly or some privately. -[3553.70 --> 3555.32] Lord, we pray for John Philpott. -[3555.48 --> 3558.30] And thank you for a successful surgery that he had this Friday. -[3558.30 --> 3560.78] We ask, Lord, for full healing for John. -[3561.00 --> 3563.90] And that the physiotherapy that he has now will be effective. -[3564.88 --> 3570.08] And Lord, we lift up Trudy DeVries as she goes in on Friday for a surgery for a carotid artery. -[3570.72 --> 3571.86] Lord, we pray for the surgeons. -[3572.06 --> 3574.80] That you bless them with skilled hands to do their work. -[3575.14 --> 3578.50] And that you would heal her body and help her to fully recover quickly. -[3580.04 --> 3583.90] And Lord, we pray for each of the many visitors that have been worshipping with us. -[3583.90 --> 3585.62] And sharing in our community with us. -[3586.18 --> 3588.02] Help us be a support to one another. -[3588.50 --> 3593.38] To extend the love of Christ through the body of which each and every one of us is an important part. -[3594.40 --> 3600.92] We praise you, Lord, as this morning we could welcome Nico, Denise, Austin, Levi, Karis, and Isla to the Langley Emanuel Church family. -[3601.60 --> 3604.90] Help us grow together in the faith and knowledge of you. -[3604.90 --> 3610.22] And Lord, we pray for our pastors and leaders and volunteers and staff of this church. -[3610.64 --> 3614.36] We ask that you give them what they stand in need of to do your work. -[3614.90 --> 3620.50] Ministering to our congregation and leading us all to minister to our neighborhood and the world around us. -[3621.24 --> 3622.34] Lord, we pray for Sylvia. -[3622.52 --> 3627.24] And we thank you for blessing her and our congregation with the many years of her work for us. -[3627.60 --> 3630.70] And we pray, Lord, that you bless her in the next steps of her journey. -[3630.70 --> 3636.60] And Lord, we pray for each of us as we prepare for Lord's Supper next week. -[3636.96 --> 3640.64] That you would prepare our hearts and help us come hungry to be fed. -[3641.80 --> 3647.82] And Lord, as we hear your Advent message today, please bless Pastor Kevin as he brings us your word. -[3648.54 --> 3657.02] Work in our hearts and help us leave here today with a renewed hope and direction in our Advent waiting to celebrate the Christ child once again this Christmas. -[3657.02 --> 3665.94] Lord, we ask that we live our lives in Advent waiting for your second coming and the final restoration and renewal of all things to you. -[3667.06 --> 3674.54] Lord, we lift up and pray all these things in the beautiful, wonderful, powerful name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. -[3675.12 --> 3675.38] Amen. -[3687.02 --> 3687.42] Amen. -[3695.58 --> 3697.14] Good morning, everyone. -[3698.52 --> 3699.22] That's nice. -[3699.34 --> 3699.74] That's nice. -[3699.82 --> 3700.18] That was good. -[3700.66 --> 3702.62] That's usually a little bit quieter than that when I get up here. -[3702.62 --> 3703.56] It's been quite a Sunday. -[3703.70 --> 3708.80] We've had Advent readings and new members welcomed and Kids Corner happening and a video on Mexico. -[3709.14 --> 3711.06] And there's a lot going on these days. -[3711.12 --> 3716.44] And it's really nice to be with you and gathered together on this second Sunday of Advent. -[3717.02 --> 3728.36] Now, during this Advent season, Pastor Chris mostly, but then I today, will be walking you through passages in the book of Revelation as we discuss what it means to wait for our King. -[3728.36 --> 3736.54] Now, the goal of this sermon series throughout Advent is to highlight that we're living in anticipation of the return of the King, -[3736.62 --> 3743.74] who invites us to be a people of patient endurance and faith, who can live rejoicing in the world to come, -[3744.36 --> 3749.20] and live with joy in the world that is, holding to the love that holds on to us, -[3750.44 --> 3754.90] living it boldly, and longing for the day when all will be made whole. -[3754.90 --> 3762.64] So last week, Pastor Chris led us through Revelation 3, 1-10, where we heard about how we are to be people of patient endurance and faith. -[3762.72 --> 3766.90] And today, we will look at the underlined bit on the screen behind me. -[3767.32 --> 3772.78] How we can live rejoicing in the world to come, and in the world that is. -[3773.44 --> 3776.06] The last week was faith, this week is joy. -[3776.06 --> 3781.78] Now, for this, we're going to look at Revelation, and we're going to look at a three-fold hallelujah chorus, -[3782.14 --> 3784.92] found in Revelation 19, verses 1-9. -[3785.06 --> 3791.80] If you've got your Bibles, and I hope you do, even apps on your phone, or there's some Bibles in the back you can grab as well, -[3792.16 --> 3795.32] we're going to turn to that now, Revelation 19, 1-9. -[3795.52 --> 3798.82] Please have those Bibles ready, because we're going to be going all over Revelation today, -[3798.90 --> 3800.66] so it'll be handy to have those in front of you. -[3800.66 --> 3806.56] So, Revelation 19, 1-9, it says this. -[3807.66 --> 3813.08] After this, I heard what sounded like the roar of a great multitude in heaven, shouting, -[3813.52 --> 3820.28] Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, for true and just are His judgments. -[3821.00 --> 3825.74] He has condemned the great prostitute who corrupted the earth by her adulteries. -[3826.30 --> 3829.32] He has avenged on her the blood of His servants. -[3829.32 --> 3835.04] And again they shouted, Hallelujah! The smoke and the fire from her goes up forever and ever. -[3836.42 --> 3840.60] The twenty-four elders and the four living creatures fell down and worshipped God, -[3840.68 --> 3844.78] who was seated on the throne, and they cried out, Amen! Hallelujah! -[3846.46 --> 3855.46] Then a voice came from the throne, saying, Praise our God, all you servants, you who fear Him, both great and small. -[3855.46 --> 3861.28] Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters, -[3861.40 --> 3866.66] and like peals of thunder, shouting, Hallelujah! For the Lord God Almighty reigns! -[3866.76 --> 3869.54] Let us rejoice and be glad and give Him glory! -[3869.78 --> 3873.76] For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and His bride has made herself ready. -[3874.28 --> 3877.92] Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear. -[3878.46 --> 3881.96] Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of God's holy people. -[3881.96 --> 3890.46] Then the angel said to me, Write this, Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb. -[3891.12 --> 3894.66] And he added, These are the true words of God. -[3895.86 --> 3897.00] The word of the Lord. -[3900.62 --> 3905.04] Now, you'll notice immediately at the start of our text this morning, we read, -[3905.18 --> 3906.30] After this I heard. -[3907.06 --> 3909.32] Which means, of course, we have to ask the question, -[3909.90 --> 3910.36] Heard what? -[3910.36 --> 3912.98] After what? -[3913.06 --> 3914.84] What happened before this passage? -[3914.98 --> 3917.20] Well, chapters 17 and 18 do silly, -[3917.46 --> 3919.84] and a whole lot of stuff goes on in those two chapters, -[3920.04 --> 3923.04] all of which has to do with God's judgment. -[3923.64 --> 3924.88] So let's take a quick look. -[3925.10 --> 3927.30] We won't read all of chapters 17 and 18, -[3927.42 --> 3928.70] but please have it in front of you, -[3928.98 --> 3931.20] and read it as I kind of yammer on here for a bit. -[3931.30 --> 3932.52] Please have those Bibles handy. -[3933.12 --> 3934.84] Here's what goes down in those two chapters. -[3934.84 --> 3937.24] We are introduced to two characters, -[3937.46 --> 3940.52] a woman and a beast with which she rides on. -[3941.36 --> 3944.58] The woman is described as the mother of all prostitutes -[3944.58 --> 3947.16] and of all the abominations of the earth. -[3947.82 --> 3952.68] She is drunk on wine made out of the blood of God's holy people, -[3952.68 --> 3956.36] and in her cup is filled with all of the filth -[3956.36 --> 3960.02] and abominable things of her adulteries. -[3960.64 --> 3965.54] In other words, this is an evil, disgusting, reprehensible figure -[3965.54 --> 3970.60] who is later told to represent the great city of worldly things, -[3971.24 --> 3973.16] meaning Babylon or Rome, -[3973.58 --> 3975.74] or if you want to start applying this today, -[3975.74 --> 3977.80] our worldly cultures of the day. -[3977.80 --> 3982.36] The beast is described as scarlet in color, -[3983.12 --> 3984.94] covered in blasphemous names, -[3985.44 --> 3990.24] and who is out to consume the woman who rides it. -[3991.90 --> 3993.68] Now some of you might be hearing this and thinking, -[3993.78 --> 3994.76] this sounds familiar. -[3996.02 --> 3999.10] Well remember, Revelation as a book has a lot of parodies. -[3999.26 --> 4002.32] There's a lot of stories that come back and repeat themselves, -[4002.52 --> 4004.00] and this happens to be one of them. -[4004.48 --> 4007.00] Last week, Pastor Chris talked about a woman and a beast -[4007.00 --> 4008.56] described in Revelation 12, -[4009.52 --> 4011.08] so seven chapters earlier. -[4011.66 --> 4014.20] Now that woman, though, she was pure in heart. -[4015.06 --> 4017.98] She was pregnant with a child that would rule the nations. -[4018.40 --> 4020.72] Now this child, who we know is Jesus, -[4021.20 --> 4023.06] was what the beast wanted to consume, -[4023.18 --> 4025.44] wanted to eat it for lunch and wanted to consume it forever. -[4025.44 --> 4029.44] But God spared both the woman and the child. -[4030.60 --> 4032.50] So that's the story of Revelation 12, -[4033.34 --> 4035.28] and about the woman and the beast we find there. -[4035.28 --> 4037.84] But here, in Revelation 19, -[4037.84 --> 4040.02] we have another woman and beast. -[4040.38 --> 4042.84] It's two stories about two women and a beast -[4042.84 --> 4044.82] waiting to consume them both. -[4046.26 --> 4048.94] The woman in Revelation 12 was spared. -[4050.26 --> 4051.80] And the woman in Revelation 12 -[4051.80 --> 4053.38] was the mother of God -[4053.38 --> 4055.14] and the mother of the church. -[4056.80 --> 4059.12] In Revelation 17 and 18, though, -[4059.26 --> 4060.24] it's a different tale. -[4060.32 --> 4061.12] It's a different woman. -[4061.12 --> 4064.20] This woman is also hated by the beast. -[4065.08 --> 4066.46] But she's not of God. -[4067.34 --> 4068.64] She's of this world. -[4069.72 --> 4071.62] She's the mother of immorality, -[4071.74 --> 4074.78] the prostitute who's drunk on the blood of God's holy people. -[4074.88 --> 4075.54] She is corrupt. -[4075.90 --> 4076.52] She's evil. -[4076.78 --> 4077.36] She is wicked. -[4077.76 --> 4079.98] And as we read in Revelation 17 and 18, -[4080.58 --> 4082.70] she is not spared by God. -[4083.62 --> 4086.92] The beast devours her and burns her with fire. -[4086.92 --> 4088.22] And when that happens, -[4088.36 --> 4090.28] the world who loved this woman, -[4091.22 --> 4093.96] the world who loved this evil, wretched woman, -[4094.26 --> 4096.20] watches her get destroyed -[4096.20 --> 4098.54] and shouts out in agony. -[4098.74 --> 4101.38] Read the cries in Revelation 18 here. -[4101.44 --> 4101.68] It says, -[4101.86 --> 4102.10] Woe! -[4102.22 --> 4103.58] Woe to you, great city! -[4103.66 --> 4104.70] Dressed in fine linen, -[4105.04 --> 4105.88] purple and scarlet, -[4105.96 --> 4106.92] and glittering with gold, -[4107.24 --> 4108.52] precious stones and pearls. -[4109.00 --> 4109.38] Woe! -[4109.56 --> 4111.18] Woe to you, great city! -[4111.18 --> 4115.10] Where all who had ships on the sea became rich through her wealth. -[4115.50 --> 4116.52] In one hour, -[4117.02 --> 4118.46] she has been brought to ruin. -[4120.66 --> 4122.46] And then we get to our text. -[4124.08 --> 4128.42] This woman and the beasts have been defeated. -[4129.24 --> 4130.60] And now there's this celebration. -[4131.78 --> 4133.98] Justice reigns and victory is won. -[4134.26 --> 4139.14] And our text is this resounding gong of celebration and cheer. -[4139.14 --> 4141.52] For victorious hallelujahs reign out. -[4141.84 --> 4144.56] For all of those who are under the thumb of this woman. -[4146.02 --> 4150.14] And under the thumb of this beast who is seeking to consume all things. -[4151.54 --> 4152.62] In the end, -[4153.70 --> 4156.34] justice reigns and victory is won. -[4156.46 --> 4159.24] And we will live rejoicing in the world to come. -[4159.48 --> 4163.16] And can continue to live with joy in the world that is. -[4163.36 --> 4166.68] Because of that victory that we read about in our text. -[4166.80 --> 4168.54] So let's take a closer look at that right now. -[4169.14 --> 4172.06] Now our text is broken down into three chunks. -[4172.64 --> 4174.92] The first is verses 1 to 3. -[4175.02 --> 4178.58] Where there's this big contrast that's worth digging into a bit. -[4179.22 --> 4182.66] And that's the contrast between celebration and judgment. -[4183.96 --> 4185.94] Now in our world, we love celebration. -[4186.16 --> 4186.26] Right? -[4186.34 --> 4187.06] Celebration is fun. -[4187.16 --> 4187.78] We love to win. -[4187.90 --> 4188.60] We love to cheer. -[4188.70 --> 4189.40] We love to rejoice. -[4189.66 --> 4190.56] Who doesn't love a party? -[4190.64 --> 4192.04] Who doesn't love a great celebration? -[4193.66 --> 4194.56] Judgment though? -[4195.26 --> 4196.24] Not as big a fan. -[4196.24 --> 4197.62] We're not as big a fan of judgment. -[4197.86 --> 4199.46] It's frowned upon in our world. -[4199.52 --> 4200.36] Don't judge people. -[4200.86 --> 4202.26] We always say it's bad to judge. -[4202.68 --> 4203.60] You think you're better than me? -[4203.64 --> 4204.46] How dare you think that? -[4204.50 --> 4205.38] You think you're better than them? -[4205.42 --> 4206.42] How dare you say that? -[4207.86 --> 4209.08] But here in our text, -[4209.40 --> 4212.38] and hopefully we'll come to see that this is true in our world as well, -[4212.44 --> 4214.70] we can't have one without the other. -[4214.70 --> 4219.30] See, during Advent, we're waiting for our King, right? -[4219.40 --> 4222.78] We celebrate His initial coming at Christmas, of course, -[4222.88 --> 4226.44] and as our baby in the manger, the Savior born in Bethlehem, -[4226.50 --> 4230.24] who defeated sin and death for us all with His sacrifice on the cross -[4230.24 --> 4232.36] and His resurrection from the grave. -[4232.40 --> 4235.92] And we celebrate Him coming down on Christmas for us. -[4236.06 --> 4237.02] No more anxiety. -[4237.18 --> 4237.92] No more grief. -[4238.20 --> 4239.50] No more pain or suffering. -[4240.08 --> 4244.08] Everything from depression will go away when He comes back. -[4244.70 --> 4246.52] Because our King didn't just come once. -[4246.58 --> 4247.44] He's coming again. -[4248.40 --> 4250.92] And we're waiting for that eternal celebration -[4250.92 --> 4254.28] that we will have as the new heaven comes down -[4254.28 --> 4256.70] and Jesus reigns once and for all. -[4258.46 --> 4262.06] Everything from depression to cancer to back pain will be gone, -[4262.26 --> 4264.66] and it will not be at the expense of this earth -[4264.66 --> 4266.02] and the things that we enjoy, -[4266.02 --> 4268.88] but it will be in the renewing of this earth, -[4268.96 --> 4270.46] the renewing of the world, -[4270.68 --> 4273.88] and the glorification of God who created all of it. -[4273.88 --> 4276.16] And then we will dance and we will sing -[4276.16 --> 4277.46] and we will play and we will laugh -[4277.46 --> 4279.84] and we will reign with Jesus over all of it -[4279.84 --> 4281.92] because we are co-heirs with Christ -[4281.92 --> 4284.50] because of His life, death, and resurrection. -[4284.94 --> 4286.36] That's what we wait for. -[4286.64 --> 4289.10] That's the celebration that we will join in -[4289.10 --> 4292.16] that our threefold hallelujah text of today -[4292.16 --> 4293.48] points us towards. -[4296.26 --> 4297.38] But here's the rub. -[4297.38 --> 4303.84] This celebration happens because of judgment. -[4305.84 --> 4308.14] It comes when Jesus returns -[4308.14 --> 4310.84] and destroys all evil, -[4311.70 --> 4313.10] destroys corruption, -[4313.34 --> 4315.88] destroys the sinful nature of the beast -[4315.88 --> 4317.12] and the woman of the city. -[4317.56 --> 4318.72] Celebration is coming, -[4319.12 --> 4320.78] but only when judgment happens. -[4320.78 --> 4324.74] When the followers of Christ -[4324.74 --> 4326.52] hear the sounds of victory, -[4327.52 --> 4329.24] the friends of the beast -[4329.24 --> 4330.82] or the followers of the woman -[4330.82 --> 4333.98] will hear the sounds of doom and darkness. -[4336.86 --> 4338.52] They will feel destruction. -[4340.88 --> 4343.04] Celebration will start with judgment. -[4343.98 --> 4346.86] And our text is actually celebrating that time -[4346.86 --> 4348.20] when judgment comes, -[4348.32 --> 4349.74] when justice is delivered. -[4349.74 --> 4351.22] In verse 2 and 3 of our text, -[4351.48 --> 4353.34] it's the judgment that is celebrated. -[4353.64 --> 4354.42] Listen to the words. -[4354.94 --> 4357.00] He has condemned the great prostitute -[4357.00 --> 4359.50] who corrupted the earth by her adulteries. -[4359.82 --> 4363.68] He has avenged on her the blood of His servants. -[4364.00 --> 4365.24] And again, they shouted, -[4365.60 --> 4366.00] Hallelujah! -[4367.28 --> 4371.36] The smoke from her goes up forever and ever. -[4372.48 --> 4373.60] That's not pretty. -[4375.70 --> 4377.22] But it's what we will celebrate. -[4377.22 --> 4381.20] When we look ahead to the everlasting joy found in heaven, -[4381.48 --> 4384.02] an eternity without depression or cancer or back pain, -[4384.28 --> 4386.36] that comes at the feet of judgment. -[4387.72 --> 4390.80] The judgment of unrepentant murder and abuse -[4390.80 --> 4392.88] and human trafficking and gossip. -[4393.06 --> 4395.20] Our world despises judgment. -[4395.94 --> 4397.90] It calls for tolerance and approval, -[4398.36 --> 4400.78] but tolerance and approval won't do. -[4400.78 --> 4405.46] There's a difference between sins that we repent of, of course, -[4406.26 --> 4409.12] and sins that permeate the culture with which we live in. -[4410.22 --> 4412.96] We cannot be ignorant and think that the beast -[4412.96 --> 4415.80] is not out there devouring people in this world. -[4416.28 --> 4418.64] Yes, the beast has been bound. -[4420.12 --> 4421.26] Christ has won. -[4421.26 --> 4426.42] But a bound or a trapped animal is often the most dangerous. -[4428.08 --> 4429.58] See, we know Christ has won, -[4429.66 --> 4430.74] and we know He was coming, -[4430.82 --> 4431.28] and we wait. -[4431.60 --> 4433.34] Oh, do we wait for Him to come again, -[4433.46 --> 4435.54] to rid the world once and for all of the sin -[4435.54 --> 4437.36] that so easily entangles us, -[4437.46 --> 4440.02] to rid the world of pain and of anxiety -[4440.02 --> 4442.04] and of suffering and of grief, -[4442.14 --> 4443.74] where the blind will see -[4443.74 --> 4445.26] and the lame will walk, -[4445.42 --> 4446.92] where the widow will find a husband, -[4447.48 --> 4449.30] where the orphan will find a father. -[4449.30 --> 4453.08] And we will celebrate that, -[4453.36 --> 4455.42] because victory is coming. -[4456.30 --> 4457.16] Because when He comes, -[4457.24 --> 4459.28] He will bring us the love and hope -[4459.28 --> 4460.76] and peace and joy -[4460.76 --> 4463.04] that we wait for during this Advent season. -[4465.00 --> 4466.96] But that victory is coming. -[4468.14 --> 4469.94] It's coming because of judgment. -[4470.74 --> 4471.56] It has to. -[4472.20 --> 4473.66] And we will celebrate that judgment, -[4473.84 --> 4475.76] because things happen here on earth -[4475.76 --> 4477.96] that are not just. -[4479.30 --> 4481.12] Sins that go unnoticed -[4481.12 --> 4482.56] and unrepented. -[4483.02 --> 4484.82] Suffering that is unseen. -[4485.28 --> 4486.72] Abuse that no one notices. -[4488.06 --> 4491.48] Torment that people experience in isolation. -[4493.26 --> 4494.92] And these things go on and on, -[4495.04 --> 4495.86] seemingly forever, -[4495.98 --> 4496.82] with no respite. -[4497.00 --> 4498.30] But when Christ comes again, -[4498.64 --> 4499.64] there will be judgment -[4499.64 --> 4502.32] for all of those things. -[4502.32 --> 4505.82] We cannot sit and think -[4505.82 --> 4506.66] that eternal judgment -[4506.66 --> 4507.72] will not lead us -[4507.72 --> 4510.18] to our everlasting joy. -[4510.26 --> 4511.24] They go hand in hand. -[4512.62 --> 4514.48] Because as verse 1 of our text -[4514.48 --> 4515.06] points out, -[4515.20 --> 4516.78] salvation, glory, -[4517.22 --> 4519.20] and power belong to God. -[4521.30 --> 4522.64] We sing this all the time, -[4522.70 --> 4523.32] and it's magnificent, -[4524.08 --> 4525.00] and the truth of that -[4525.00 --> 4526.16] rings in our hearts. -[4526.54 --> 4527.58] Salvation is ours -[4527.58 --> 4528.82] because it belongs to God. -[4529.64 --> 4530.98] Christ came to this earth, -[4531.16 --> 4532.88] and He lived this perfect life -[4532.88 --> 4533.66] that we have been called -[4533.66 --> 4534.52] yet failed to live. -[4534.72 --> 4535.86] And then He died a death -[4535.86 --> 4536.86] on the cross -[4536.86 --> 4538.26] for all of our sin -[4538.26 --> 4539.36] in our place. -[4539.48 --> 4540.86] A death that we all deserved. -[4542.12 --> 4543.22] And He took the sins -[4543.22 --> 4544.90] and the brokenness of this world -[4544.90 --> 4545.60] on His shoulders -[4545.60 --> 4546.84] into the grave with Him. -[4547.92 --> 4548.86] But on the third day, -[4548.96 --> 4550.66] He rose again from the dead, -[4550.74 --> 4551.88] and He defeated sin -[4551.88 --> 4553.40] and misery and death -[4553.40 --> 4554.60] and saved us all -[4554.60 --> 4555.82] because salvation belongs -[4555.82 --> 4557.54] to our God, -[4557.64 --> 4558.84] and we are saved. -[4559.86 --> 4561.64] We are saved from the sins, -[4562.20 --> 4562.94] and when we repent, -[4563.06 --> 4564.46] we get a clean slate from God. -[4565.20 --> 4565.86] And we are saved -[4565.86 --> 4566.96] from the misery of this world -[4566.96 --> 4567.66] because we know -[4567.66 --> 4568.74] that our Savior lives, -[4569.00 --> 4570.30] and He is always with us. -[4570.98 --> 4572.12] And we are saved -[4572.12 --> 4573.96] from death consuming us -[4573.96 --> 4575.78] for all of eternity. -[4576.24 --> 4576.82] But church, -[4577.20 --> 4578.56] that is only half -[4578.56 --> 4579.98] of the good news. -[4581.40 --> 4582.24] You see, so often -[4582.24 --> 4583.40] we talk about salvation. -[4583.40 --> 4584.82] we talk about -[4584.82 --> 4586.00] what we are saved -[4586.00 --> 4586.88] or delivered from. -[4587.52 --> 4588.06] We talk about -[4588.06 --> 4588.58] how we are saved -[4588.58 --> 4589.22] from death, -[4589.36 --> 4590.18] saved from sin, -[4590.46 --> 4591.38] saved from misery. -[4593.28 --> 4594.74] But we are saved -[4594.74 --> 4595.52] to someone. -[4595.94 --> 4596.48] We are not just -[4596.48 --> 4597.62] delivered from sin. -[4597.78 --> 4598.40] We are delivered -[4598.40 --> 4599.46] to something. -[4599.90 --> 4600.94] We are delivered -[4600.94 --> 4601.76] to righteousness, -[4602.00 --> 4603.22] to an eternal feast -[4603.22 --> 4603.70] of the Lamb. -[4603.76 --> 4604.42] We are saved -[4604.42 --> 4605.02] and delivered -[4605.02 --> 4606.48] to an eternal joy. -[4606.60 --> 4607.28] We are saved -[4607.28 --> 4608.30] to our God, -[4608.38 --> 4609.18] and we can live -[4609.18 --> 4610.02] and rejoice -[4610.02 --> 4610.68] in the world -[4610.68 --> 4612.18] that is to come -[4612.18 --> 4613.02] in the future. -[4613.40 --> 4616.22] And also because -[4616.22 --> 4616.98] of how the drama -[4616.98 --> 4618.14] of Scripture ends, -[4618.62 --> 4620.02] we can live with joy -[4620.02 --> 4620.90] in the world -[4620.90 --> 4622.82] that is now as well. -[4623.74 --> 4624.60] I want you to hold -[4624.60 --> 4625.04] on to that -[4625.04 --> 4625.80] for just a little bit. -[4625.86 --> 4626.58] We'll get back to that. -[4630.40 --> 4631.28] The next chunk -[4631.28 --> 4633.68] gets to how the story -[4633.68 --> 4634.48] actually ends. -[4634.86 --> 4636.34] Verses 4 to 6 tell us. -[4636.40 --> 4638.22] It's a celebratory end -[4638.22 --> 4639.32] which is preparing us -[4639.32 --> 4640.16] for the new Jerusalem -[4640.16 --> 4641.10] that is coming -[4641.10 --> 4641.70] with the return -[4641.70 --> 4642.20] of the King. -[4642.20 --> 4643.46] Now there will be -[4643.46 --> 4644.04] a new heaven -[4644.04 --> 4644.80] and a new earth -[4644.80 --> 4645.30] and we will be -[4645.30 --> 4646.62] a part of that forever. -[4646.78 --> 4648.22] So how do we prepare -[4648.22 --> 4650.28] for this new earth, -[4650.36 --> 4651.48] for this new Jerusalem? -[4652.90 --> 4653.80] Our calling -[4653.80 --> 4655.08] while we prepare -[4655.08 --> 4655.88] for that day -[4655.88 --> 4657.18] is to worship. -[4658.32 --> 4659.12] Now look at verse 4 -[4659.12 --> 4659.64] for a second. -[4660.78 --> 4661.56] Notice how it talks -[4661.56 --> 4663.12] about these 24 elders -[4663.12 --> 4664.62] and 4 living creatures. -[4664.78 --> 4665.70] Now that may, -[4665.88 --> 4666.40] when we read -[4666.40 --> 4667.12] this chapter -[4667.12 --> 4667.74] in isolation, -[4667.96 --> 4668.68] seems like it comes -[4668.68 --> 4669.16] out of nowhere. -[4669.16 --> 4670.92] but these are actually -[4670.92 --> 4672.52] very key character gods -[4672.52 --> 4673.52] who represent -[4673.52 --> 4674.62] the heavenly council -[4674.62 --> 4676.06] submitting to the rule -[4676.06 --> 4676.68] and the authority -[4676.68 --> 4677.22] of Christ. -[4677.64 --> 4678.22] And this book -[4678.22 --> 4678.82] of Revelation -[4678.82 --> 4680.02] has mentioned them before. -[4680.92 --> 4682.00] So these 24 elders -[4682.00 --> 4682.78] and 4 creatures, -[4682.94 --> 4684.88] they appear in Revelation 4, -[4685.24 --> 4685.84] verse 4. -[4686.02 --> 4687.24] Now this is way back -[4687.24 --> 4688.10] to the start -[4688.10 --> 4689.58] of John's vision here. -[4690.36 --> 4690.84] If you know -[4690.84 --> 4691.42] the breakup -[4691.42 --> 4692.12] or the breakdown -[4692.12 --> 4692.84] of Revelation, -[4693.26 --> 4694.08] you'll know chapter 1 -[4694.08 --> 4695.10] is sort of an introduction -[4695.10 --> 4695.98] to what this church -[4695.98 --> 4696.62] is going to be, -[4696.90 --> 4697.54] or what this church, -[4697.64 --> 4698.08] what this book -[4698.08 --> 4698.82] is going to be about. -[4699.02 --> 4700.24] And then chapters 2 and 3 -[4700.24 --> 4701.24] are 7 letters -[4701.24 --> 4703.34] written to the 7 churches -[4703.34 --> 4704.66] in Asia Minor. -[4705.80 --> 4706.66] And then the rest -[4706.66 --> 4707.04] of the book -[4707.04 --> 4707.80] is John's vision. -[4708.64 --> 4709.80] Chapter 4 and on. -[4712.24 --> 4713.48] And chapter 4 -[4713.48 --> 4714.16] of Revelation -[4714.16 --> 4715.04] starts with these -[4715.04 --> 4715.88] 24 elders. -[4716.38 --> 4717.02] And what are those -[4717.02 --> 4718.02] 24 elders doing -[4718.02 --> 4718.58] in Revelation, -[4718.72 --> 4719.24] you may ask? -[4720.20 --> 4721.62] They are worshiping God. -[4723.12 --> 4724.00] This whole vision -[4724.00 --> 4725.00] of John in Revelation -[4725.00 --> 4726.12] started with these -[4726.12 --> 4727.06] 24 elders -[4727.06 --> 4728.80] worshiping God. -[4729.30 --> 4730.04] And then in the middle -[4730.04 --> 4731.18] of this vision, -[4731.84 --> 4732.54] skip ahead to -[4732.54 --> 4733.86] Revelation 11, 16. -[4734.00 --> 4734.90] Guess who shows up again? -[4735.64 --> 4736.72] The 24 elders. -[4737.62 --> 4738.56] And what are they doing? -[4739.48 --> 4741.04] They're worshiping God. -[4741.32 --> 4742.00] You can check it out. -[4742.66 --> 4744.02] Revelation 4, verse 4. -[4744.40 --> 4745.70] Revelation 11, 16. -[4746.08 --> 4746.90] And then at the end -[4746.90 --> 4747.36] of the vision, -[4747.44 --> 4748.20] in our text today, -[4748.32 --> 4749.98] Revelation 19, 4. -[4750.72 --> 4751.94] There's 24 elders -[4751.94 --> 4752.96] worshiping God. -[4752.96 --> 4755.70] 24 elders at the start -[4755.70 --> 4756.30] of the vision, -[4756.38 --> 4757.24] in the middle of the vision, -[4757.30 --> 4758.16] at the final judgment, -[4758.34 --> 4759.74] all worshiping God, -[4759.82 --> 4760.62] all celebrating -[4760.62 --> 4761.78] what He has done. -[4762.26 --> 4762.78] John's vision -[4762.78 --> 4763.78] starts with worship, -[4764.24 --> 4765.34] proceeds with worship, -[4765.52 --> 4767.14] and culminates in worship. -[4767.38 --> 4768.28] From worship -[4768.28 --> 4769.18] to worship. -[4769.42 --> 4770.30] And that is what -[4770.30 --> 4771.24] we are called to do. -[4772.24 --> 4773.84] Our celebratory response -[4773.84 --> 4774.72] to divine judgment -[4774.72 --> 4775.78] is to worship. -[4775.90 --> 4776.52] That's what verses -[4776.52 --> 4777.76] 4 to 6 in our text -[4777.76 --> 4779.62] talk all about. -[4779.62 --> 4781.16] From the creation -[4781.16 --> 4781.84] of the world -[4781.84 --> 4782.42] to the coming -[4782.42 --> 4783.16] new Jerusalem. -[4783.82 --> 4784.76] From angels -[4784.76 --> 4786.36] calling shepherds -[4786.36 --> 4787.06] to a manger -[4787.06 --> 4788.66] to an angel -[4788.66 --> 4789.30] pointing us -[4789.30 --> 4789.90] to the return -[4789.90 --> 4790.44] of the King. -[4791.18 --> 4792.30] From the cradles -[4792.30 --> 4793.92] with which we sleep in -[4793.92 --> 4794.40] at birth -[4794.40 --> 4795.42] to the graves -[4795.42 --> 4796.14] that we will find -[4796.14 --> 4797.34] ourselves in -[4797.34 --> 4798.72] at the end of our life -[4798.72 --> 4799.28] here on earth. -[4799.74 --> 4801.26] We are called -[4801.26 --> 4802.88] to worship our Lord. -[4804.64 --> 4805.68] And then finally, -[4805.78 --> 4806.18] as we see -[4806.18 --> 4807.30] in the final three verses, -[4808.52 --> 4809.30] the celebration -[4809.30 --> 4810.28] the worship -[4810.28 --> 4810.98] that we are called -[4810.98 --> 4811.46] to give, -[4811.58 --> 4812.46] it concludes -[4812.46 --> 4814.18] with a wedding feast. -[4814.78 --> 4815.84] Revelation 19, -[4816.28 --> 4817.02] 7 to 9, -[4817.08 --> 4817.92] the final three verses -[4817.92 --> 4818.60] of our text. -[4819.16 --> 4820.02] It's described, -[4820.16 --> 4821.06] this place is described -[4821.06 --> 4821.60] as a place -[4821.60 --> 4822.78] full of glory -[4822.78 --> 4824.52] and full of great rejoicing. -[4825.86 --> 4826.36] See, we've been -[4826.36 --> 4827.98] given righteous acts -[4827.98 --> 4829.10] to fulfill in this world -[4829.10 --> 4829.62] and when Christ -[4829.62 --> 4830.20] looks on us, -[4830.24 --> 4831.28] He sees His people. -[4831.76 --> 4832.70] He sees His church, -[4832.78 --> 4833.42] His bride, -[4833.78 --> 4835.34] bright and clean -[4835.34 --> 4836.38] as if wearing -[4836.38 --> 4837.18] fine linen. -[4837.18 --> 4839.24] This is a party, -[4839.38 --> 4840.26] a celebration. -[4840.46 --> 4841.32] It's envisioned -[4841.32 --> 4842.26] as a place -[4842.26 --> 4843.46] of such great -[4843.46 --> 4844.36] eschatological -[4844.36 --> 4846.68] or eternal joy. -[4848.84 --> 4849.86] Now interestingly, -[4850.06 --> 4851.16] according to this text, -[4851.62 --> 4852.52] we, the church, -[4852.92 --> 4854.44] are both Christ's bride -[4854.44 --> 4856.08] at the wedding -[4856.08 --> 4857.56] but also His guests -[4857.56 --> 4859.56] at this beautiful banquet. -[4859.70 --> 4861.16] See, John's mixing metaphors -[4861.16 --> 4862.46] to bring up a point. -[4862.46 --> 4863.58] He's undergirding -[4863.58 --> 4865.04] the importance of joy -[4865.04 --> 4865.92] that results -[4865.92 --> 4867.28] from the witnessing mission -[4867.28 --> 4868.68] that we've undertaken -[4868.68 --> 4869.88] to proclaim Christ -[4869.88 --> 4870.68] as Lord. -[4870.86 --> 4871.90] Brian K. Blunt, -[4871.94 --> 4872.68] he points that out. -[4873.00 --> 4873.26] He says, -[4873.36 --> 4874.86] John intends to say -[4874.86 --> 4875.94] that the people of God -[4875.94 --> 4876.38] have, -[4876.48 --> 4877.64] by their acts of witnessing -[4877.64 --> 4878.98] to the Lordship of God -[4878.98 --> 4880.06] and the Lamb, -[4880.48 --> 4881.78] under perilous circumstances, -[4882.44 --> 4883.12] achieved both -[4883.12 --> 4884.50] the conquest of the dragon -[4884.50 --> 4886.36] and its forces -[4886.36 --> 4888.48] as well as the victory -[4888.48 --> 4889.38] of eschatological -[4889.38 --> 4890.68] relationship with God. -[4890.68 --> 4891.86] Christ has come. -[4892.74 --> 4893.88] Christ will come again. -[4894.34 --> 4895.36] The beast is bound. -[4895.74 --> 4896.54] Christ has won. -[4899.00 --> 4900.16] Yet a bound beast -[4900.16 --> 4900.96] is still dangerous -[4900.96 --> 4901.64] as we mentioned. -[4901.96 --> 4903.02] So we must be diligent -[4903.02 --> 4904.10] in our witness to the world -[4904.10 --> 4905.82] and must be diligent -[4905.82 --> 4907.24] in our perseverance of faith. -[4908.30 --> 4909.16] The new Jerusalem -[4909.16 --> 4910.50] has not yet come. -[4911.36 --> 4912.88] But it is coming, church. -[4913.00 --> 4913.72] It is coming. -[4913.98 --> 4915.40] And the feast will be worth it. -[4915.78 --> 4917.36] The justice we will see, -[4917.44 --> 4918.22] we will celebrate. -[4918.72 --> 4919.56] Christ has won -[4919.56 --> 4921.18] and our joy is secured. -[4923.38 --> 4925.08] We worship the one who saves -[4925.08 --> 4926.38] and we witness these truths -[4926.38 --> 4927.36] to those around us -[4927.36 --> 4928.44] with our eyes set -[4928.44 --> 4929.54] on this joyous banquet. -[4930.38 --> 4931.18] That's the message -[4931.18 --> 4932.98] of this celebratory text -[4932.98 --> 4934.26] in Revelation 9. -[4934.34 --> 4936.06] We can live rejoicing -[4936.06 --> 4937.48] in the world to come. -[4939.28 --> 4941.16] What might be harder, though, -[4941.88 --> 4944.58] is living with joy -[4944.58 --> 4946.44] in the world that is now. -[4946.44 --> 4950.40] How do we rejoice -[4950.40 --> 4951.06] in the now? -[4952.46 --> 4953.56] I think one of the reasons -[4953.56 --> 4954.14] this might be -[4954.14 --> 4955.74] a difficult question for us -[4955.74 --> 4957.00] is that we often think -[4957.00 --> 4957.98] the words happiness -[4957.98 --> 4959.28] and joy -[4959.28 --> 4960.36] are synonymous. -[4961.22 --> 4962.02] But they're the same. -[4963.14 --> 4964.14] But they're not the same. -[4965.32 --> 4966.70] Happiness can lead to joy. -[4967.42 --> 4968.06] And actually, joy -[4968.06 --> 4968.98] can lead to happiness. -[4969.66 --> 4971.10] But they're not the same word. -[4971.46 --> 4971.82] Happiness, -[4971.98 --> 4972.54] to be happy, -[4972.62 --> 4973.44] is to be delighted -[4973.44 --> 4974.08] or pleased -[4974.08 --> 4974.82] or glad -[4974.82 --> 4976.20] about a certain thing. -[4977.62 --> 4978.54] Joy, though, -[4979.30 --> 4980.22] is to enjoy -[4980.22 --> 4980.94] the prospect -[4980.94 --> 4981.96] of what we desire. -[4983.56 --> 4984.56] And it can happen -[4984.56 --> 4985.56] at any time. -[4986.80 --> 4987.24] So happiness -[4987.24 --> 4989.24] is an emotive response, -[4989.38 --> 4990.72] but joy is a posture. -[4990.92 --> 4991.82] It's an understanding -[4991.82 --> 4993.72] of what has come -[4993.72 --> 4994.92] or what will be coming. -[4995.96 --> 4996.72] There's a difference there. -[4996.76 --> 4997.66] That's why we don't sing -[4997.66 --> 4998.94] happiness to the world -[4998.94 --> 4999.44] at Christmas. -[4999.56 --> 5000.20] We sing joy -[5000.20 --> 5000.82] to the world -[5000.82 --> 5001.48] at Christmas. -[5002.00 --> 5003.16] Philippians 4, verse 4, -[5003.16 --> 5003.44] says, -[5003.78 --> 5005.08] Rejoice in the Lord always. -[5005.20 --> 5006.18] Again, I will say it. -[5006.38 --> 5006.82] Rejoice. -[5007.26 --> 5007.56] It says, -[5007.62 --> 5008.10] Be joyful, -[5008.20 --> 5008.84] not be happy. -[5010.00 --> 5010.32] Always. -[5010.64 --> 5011.82] Be joyful always. -[5011.96 --> 5012.74] Rejoice always. -[5013.10 --> 5014.20] 1 Thessalonians 5, -[5014.28 --> 5015.22] 16 to 18, -[5015.34 --> 5015.54] says, -[5015.86 --> 5016.94] Rejoice always. -[5018.04 --> 5018.66] Pray continually -[5018.66 --> 5019.32] and give thanks -[5019.32 --> 5020.10] in all circumstances. -[5020.24 --> 5020.42] Not, -[5020.78 --> 5021.24] Be happy. -[5021.74 --> 5022.74] Be happy always. -[5023.62 --> 5025.02] Be happy in all circumstances. -[5025.22 --> 5026.00] That's not what it says. -[5027.54 --> 5028.24] These verses, -[5028.48 --> 5029.24] this calling, -[5029.46 --> 5030.36] is to rejoice -[5030.36 --> 5031.22] or to be joyful. -[5031.58 --> 5032.38] It's given because -[5032.38 --> 5033.58] we can know, -[5033.70 --> 5035.64] no matter how hard life is, -[5035.82 --> 5037.50] that Christ is coming -[5037.50 --> 5039.64] and His justice -[5039.64 --> 5041.76] will reign. -[5042.46 --> 5043.86] We can enjoy the prospect -[5043.86 --> 5044.72] of what we desire -[5044.72 --> 5046.82] because what we desire -[5046.82 --> 5047.98] is Christ. -[5048.90 --> 5049.74] What we desire -[5049.74 --> 5050.48] is justice -[5050.48 --> 5051.36] and hope -[5051.36 --> 5052.24] and love. -[5053.32 --> 5054.04] And in the midst -[5054.04 --> 5054.84] of unhappiness, -[5055.30 --> 5056.82] we can still possess -[5056.82 --> 5058.16] it is wellness -[5058.16 --> 5060.34] with my soul. -[5062.78 --> 5064.36] Joy or rejoicing -[5064.36 --> 5065.30] is that -[5065.30 --> 5066.70] it is wellness -[5066.70 --> 5067.98] in my soul. -[5070.70 --> 5072.16] Some people in this church, -[5072.32 --> 5073.14] some youth and leaders -[5073.14 --> 5074.16] and many members now -[5074.16 --> 5075.96] are joining in -[5075.96 --> 5076.80] and participating -[5076.80 --> 5077.58] in Dress Semper. -[5077.70 --> 5078.48] They're wearing dresses -[5078.48 --> 5079.40] and ties -[5079.40 --> 5080.70] and supporting -[5080.70 --> 5082.34] this sort of movement -[5082.34 --> 5084.04] as well. -[5084.12 --> 5085.06] Others are not necessarily -[5085.06 --> 5086.04] wearing dresses and ties, -[5086.04 --> 5087.44] but they're advocating for -[5087.44 --> 5088.78] and on behalf of -[5088.78 --> 5089.68] and they're praying for -[5089.68 --> 5090.30] and they're financially -[5090.30 --> 5091.08] supporting this. -[5091.62 --> 5093.02] And why we are doing this, -[5093.08 --> 5093.92] why this is happening -[5093.92 --> 5095.72] is because human trafficking -[5095.72 --> 5096.60] and slavery -[5096.60 --> 5098.16] is still a rampant -[5098.16 --> 5099.58] 100 billion, -[5099.78 --> 5100.46] that's a B, -[5100.62 --> 5102.04] 100 billion dollar -[5102.04 --> 5103.58] industry in our world. -[5104.70 --> 5105.58] So we as a church -[5105.58 --> 5106.40] and members of the church, -[5106.46 --> 5107.26] we want to stand up -[5107.26 --> 5107.68] against that. -[5107.74 --> 5108.72] We want to bring awareness -[5108.72 --> 5109.06] to that. -[5109.12 --> 5110.18] We want to fight against that -[5110.18 --> 5111.14] and raise money for that. -[5112.34 --> 5113.84] We want to bring to the light -[5113.84 --> 5114.80] these injustices -[5114.80 --> 5115.46] that are happening. -[5115.46 --> 5117.16] Now, we are not happy -[5117.16 --> 5118.30] about human trafficking. -[5119.34 --> 5119.88] It would be awful. -[5120.02 --> 5120.78] In fact, we should all -[5120.78 --> 5122.08] be righteously angry -[5122.08 --> 5123.58] with what is happening -[5123.58 --> 5124.70] to people being trafficked -[5124.70 --> 5126.00] all over the world. -[5128.88 --> 5129.94] But while we cannot -[5129.94 --> 5131.06] and should not be happy, -[5132.06 --> 5134.50] our joy can still be secure -[5134.50 --> 5136.38] knowing that justice -[5136.38 --> 5137.38] for these people -[5137.38 --> 5138.38] who are victimized -[5138.38 --> 5139.38] is coming. -[5140.58 --> 5142.28] That can bring us joy. -[5142.28 --> 5143.92] we can pray -[5143.92 --> 5144.88] and we can work -[5144.88 --> 5146.20] and we can take a stand -[5146.20 --> 5146.62] and fight -[5146.62 --> 5147.90] and we can do our best -[5147.90 --> 5148.60] to bring justice -[5148.60 --> 5149.72] for these people right now -[5149.72 --> 5150.76] here in this world. -[5150.90 --> 5151.94] And that is happening -[5151.94 --> 5153.50] and we can be joyful -[5153.50 --> 5154.44] about that too. -[5155.40 --> 5156.16] But sadly, -[5156.32 --> 5157.46] justice in this world -[5157.46 --> 5158.76] is just not a certainty. -[5160.44 --> 5162.26] As long as that bound beast -[5162.26 --> 5163.56] is still able to devour, -[5163.70 --> 5164.86] he will do just that. -[5164.86 --> 5167.86] And while that might -[5167.86 --> 5168.52] make us sad -[5168.52 --> 5170.58] or even angry, -[5171.30 --> 5172.98] we can still rejoice -[5172.98 --> 5175.76] because Christ's second coming -[5175.76 --> 5177.22] is secured -[5177.22 --> 5179.04] and justice for all, -[5179.26 --> 5180.02] especially those -[5180.02 --> 5180.84] who are victimized, -[5181.00 --> 5181.68] is coming. -[5181.82 --> 5183.02] They will be saved. -[5183.62 --> 5185.52] And justice will reign. -[5185.86 --> 5186.78] Joy can be found -[5186.78 --> 5187.50] in the not yet -[5187.50 --> 5188.42] because we know -[5188.42 --> 5190.10] the not yet is coming. -[5191.50 --> 5193.22] And because we know that, -[5193.22 --> 5196.48] it is well with our soul. -[5199.44 --> 5200.60] Justice will reign. -[5200.86 --> 5201.92] Judgment will come. -[5202.20 --> 5203.68] We will be delivered -[5203.68 --> 5204.44] from the sin -[5204.44 --> 5205.28] and the misery -[5205.28 --> 5206.24] and the pain -[5206.24 --> 5206.92] of this world. -[5207.06 --> 5208.36] And we will be delivered -[5208.36 --> 5209.50] to the one -[5209.50 --> 5210.54] who reigns on high. -[5210.72 --> 5211.62] We will be saved -[5211.62 --> 5212.42] to our Savior, -[5212.86 --> 5214.54] delivered to our King. -[5215.98 --> 5217.16] We still witness -[5217.16 --> 5217.92] to that fact. -[5218.20 --> 5218.96] We still fight -[5218.96 --> 5220.16] for justice in the now. -[5220.42 --> 5221.28] And while we do that, -[5221.60 --> 5222.26] we wait -[5222.26 --> 5223.94] with bated breath -[5223.94 --> 5225.72] for Christ to come again -[5225.72 --> 5227.00] and deliver all -[5227.00 --> 5228.12] from their injustices. -[5229.54 --> 5231.26] So we can live -[5231.26 --> 5232.58] rejoicing in the world -[5232.58 --> 5233.06] to come. -[5234.26 --> 5236.32] And also live with joy -[5236.32 --> 5237.94] in the world that is. -[5238.38 --> 5241.14] Because Christ will come. -[5242.48 --> 5245.00] It is well with my soul. -[5245.54 --> 5245.78] Amen? -[5245.78 --> 5245.90] Amen? -[5246.66 --> 5247.38] Let me pray. -[5247.48 --> 5248.04] Amen. -[5252.26 --> 5253.80] Heavenly Father, -[5254.80 --> 5254.90] Heavenly Father, -[5254.90 --> 5257.20] as we are living -[5257.20 --> 5257.90] in the tension -[5257.90 --> 5258.64] of a battle -[5258.64 --> 5259.18] and a war -[5259.18 --> 5259.86] that is won -[5259.86 --> 5261.98] and yet is not -[5261.98 --> 5263.38] yet finished, -[5263.94 --> 5266.34] we pray for you -[5266.34 --> 5266.76] to come. -[5271.26 --> 5272.42] As we sit -[5272.42 --> 5273.80] in this Advent season -[5273.80 --> 5275.36] ready to celebrate -[5275.36 --> 5276.38] your birth, -[5276.38 --> 5278.82] Lord Jesus, -[5279.54 --> 5281.40] we also wait -[5281.40 --> 5282.44] for your return. -[5284.12 --> 5284.86] But Lord, -[5284.92 --> 5285.66] as we wait -[5285.66 --> 5287.50] in the world -[5287.50 --> 5288.42] that we are in, -[5289.86 --> 5290.58] through the happiness -[5290.58 --> 5291.58] we experience -[5291.58 --> 5292.56] and the turmoil, -[5292.86 --> 5293.60] through the peaks -[5293.60 --> 5294.38] and the valleys, -[5295.56 --> 5295.74] Lord, -[5295.82 --> 5296.78] let us be joyful -[5296.78 --> 5298.86] because we know -[5298.86 --> 5300.20] that justice -[5300.20 --> 5300.90] will reign. -[5302.50 --> 5303.08] And so Lord, -[5303.26 --> 5304.24] wherever we are -[5304.24 --> 5304.98] at right now, -[5304.98 --> 5306.80] however we are feeling, -[5307.46 --> 5308.42] whatever is happening -[5308.42 --> 5309.60] in the world around us, -[5310.94 --> 5312.10] may we lean on you -[5312.10 --> 5313.90] and may we trust -[5313.90 --> 5314.58] your promises -[5314.58 --> 5316.04] that you've always kept -[5316.04 --> 5316.66] and know -[5316.66 --> 5319.40] that you will come again, -[5320.00 --> 5321.06] that you will reign -[5321.06 --> 5322.44] and that joy -[5322.44 --> 5323.58] is there -[5323.58 --> 5324.66] right now. -[5325.32 --> 5326.54] We can rejoice -[5326.54 --> 5327.94] in that knowledge -[5327.94 --> 5328.98] and that understanding -[5328.98 --> 5329.48] right now -[5329.48 --> 5330.60] and we will rejoice -[5330.60 --> 5331.50] in the world -[5331.50 --> 5332.18] that is to come. -[5332.54 --> 5333.52] May that truth -[5333.52 --> 5334.76] permeate our hearts, -[5334.76 --> 5336.14] not just this Advent season, -[5337.14 --> 5338.32] but for the rest -[5338.32 --> 5338.98] of our lives. -[5339.64 --> 5340.36] We pray this -[5340.36 --> 5340.86] in your name. -[5341.40 --> 5341.66] Amen. -[5341.66 --> 5341.76] Amen. -[5348.06 --> 5348.84] Please stand -[5348.84 --> 5349.52] as we sing -[5349.52 --> 5351.12] One Piece Like a River. -[5351.12 --> 5364.58] A death. -[5364.58 --> 5364.66] Amen. -[5364.66 --> 5377.86] When peace like a river -[5377.86 --> 5383.02] The dead of my name -[5383.02 --> 5388.24] When sorrows like sea -[5388.24 --> 5395.88] The dead of my heart -[5395.88 --> 5401.02] Thou hast taught me to sing -[5401.02 --> 5406.58] It is well, it is well -[5406.58 --> 5409.24] In my soul -[5409.24 --> 5418.22] It is well, it is well -[5418.22 --> 5422.00] In my soul -[5422.00 --> 5427.86] It is well, it is well -[5427.86 --> 5430.86] In my soul -[5430.86 --> 5437.86] No saints can check up -[5437.86 --> 5442.86] No trial should come -[5442.86 --> 5449.22] Let this rest assure it -[5449.22 --> 5450.50] The joy -[5450.50 --> 5456.10] The Christ has begun -[5456.10 --> 5461.40] The helpless estate -[5461.40 --> 5463.10] That has shall -[5463.10 --> 5470.84] Thou hast taught me to sing -[5470.84 --> 5485.02] In our soul is His word -[5485.02 --> 5491.24] He is now with my soul -[5491.24 --> 5503.84] My sin, all the peace of this glorious heart -[5503.84 --> 5511.86] My sin, not in part, but the whole -[5511.86 --> 5516.86] His veil to the cross -[5516.86 --> 5522.08] In our death, in no time -[5522.08 --> 5527.18] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord -[5527.18 --> 5530.86] I know my sin -[5530.86 --> 5537.86] In His veil, in the light -[5537.86 --> 5542.86] In the light of my heart -[5542.86 --> 5548.08] In His veil, in the light -[5548.08 --> 5552.08] In the light of my heart -[5552.08 --> 5554.08] In the light of my heart -[5554.08 --> 5559.08] The love of His covenant -[5559.08 --> 5564.86] Where the faith shall be saved -[5564.86 --> 5570.08] In the light of my heart -[5570.08 --> 5574.08] In the light of my heart -[5574.08 --> 5576.08] The love of His covenant -[5576.08 --> 5578.08] And the love of His covenant -[5578.08 --> 5583.08] And the love of His covenant -[5583.08 --> 5592.30] In the light of my heart -[5592.30 --> 5595.30] In the light of my heart -[5595.30 --> 5596.26] In His covenant -[5596.26 --> 5599.30] And the love of His covenant -[5599.30 --> 5602.30] In the light of my heart -[5602.30 --> 5604.52] The love of His covenant -[5604.52 --> 5627.58] And so may we go from this place rejoicing in that truth -[5627.58 --> 5630.64] that we know Christ shall descend and he will reign -[5630.64 --> 5632.34] and we will rejoice with him forever. -[5632.34 --> 5636.46] I just want to remind everyone if you feel like you are in need of prayer this morning, -[5636.54 --> 5638.16] there are prayer people in the foyer. -[5638.48 --> 5640.92] They'll be wearing name tags like these, but they will be yellow. -[5641.38 --> 5644.68] So if you want to seek them out for prayer today, please, I invite you to do that. -[5645.42 --> 5650.14] Now, please receive God's blessing from Numbers 6. -[5651.46 --> 5654.22] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[5654.88 --> 5658.96] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[5658.96 --> 5664.12] The Lord turn his face toward you and give you his peace. -[5664.90 --> 5667.40] And all God's people said, Amen. -[5667.40 --> 5671.02] keine End pokicken. -[5671.02 --> 5673.10] No réI -[5675.34 --> 5675.48] Ésı -[5675.48 --> 5679.10] robseason -[5679.10 --> 5681.04] 100 -[5681.04 --> 5697.52] Oh, God, sing the angel of all those dead. -[5697.52 --> 5703.18] Every time the angel of all those dead, -[5703.56 --> 5708.70] God, leave us, his love, his love, his love, his love. -[5708.70 --> 5712.60] Oh, God, sing the angel of all those dead. -[5714.10 --> 5717.78] Oh, God, sing the angel of all those dead. -[5717.78 --> 5725.06] Oh, God, sing the angel of all those dead. -[5725.12 --> 5729.74] Even though Jesus Christ was in the deep. -[5730.84 --> 5734.84] Oh, God, sing the angel of all those dead. -[5734.84 --> 5740.98] All the stars and all the stars -[5740.98 --> 5746.06] Please be seated in the message of a light of light -[5746.06 --> 5748.70] We're all the stars -[5748.70 --> 5758.10] We'll stand together all the stars -[5758.10 --> 5762.20] Until we forever live -[5762.20 --> 5772.78] We'll stand together all the stars -[5772.78 --> 5779.46] We'll stand together all the stars -[5779.46 --> 5784.22] Bless and bless and bless our hearts -[5784.22 --> 5789.96] We'll stand together all the stars -[5789.96 --> 5793.50] We'll wear this light just a day -[5793.50 --> 5796.06] But we're almost there -[5796.06 --> 5798.54] The sun is setting yonder -[5798.54 --> 5800.54] We're almost there -[5800.54 --> 5803.12] We're almost there -[5803.12 --> 5804.08] Decredged by the sky -[5804.08 --> 5806.92] We shall bring to joy -[5806.92 --> 5811.12] The beautiful sun is there -[5811.12 --> 5813.12] We're almost there -[5813.12 --> 5816.12] We're almost there -[5816.12 --> 5820.70] We're almost there -[5820.70 --> 5824.70] We're almost there -[5824.70 --> 5826.70] We're almost there -[5826.70 --> 5828.70] We're almost there -[5828.70 --> 5830.70] We're almost there -[5830.70 --> 5834.70] So press on toward the blessed shore -[5834.70 --> 5836.54] Praise the Lord -[5836.54 --> 5839.66] We're almost home -[5839.66 --> 5844.34] We're almost home -[5844.34 --> 5874.32] Thank you. -[5874.34 --> 5904.32] Thank you. -[5904.34 --> 5906.34] Thank you. -[5934.34 --> 5936.34] Thank you. -[5964.34 --> 5966.34] Thank you. -[5994.34 --> 5996.34] Thank you. -[6024.34 --> 6026.34] Thank you. -[6054.34 --> 6056.34] Thank you. -[6084.34 --> 6086.34] Thank you. -[6114.34 --> 6116.34] Thank you. -[6144.34 --> 6146.34] Thank you. -[6174.34 --> 6176.34] Thank you. -[6204.34 --> 6206.34] Thank you. -[6234.34 --> 6236.34] Thank you. -[6264.34 --> 6266.34] Thank you. -[6294.34 --> 6296.34] Thank you. -[6324.34 --> 6326.34] Thank you. -[6354.34 --> 6356.34] Thank you. -[6384.34 --> 6386.34] Thank you. -[6414.34 --> 6416.34] Thank you. -[6444.34 --> 6446.34] Thank you. -[6474.34 --> 6476.34] Thank you. -[6504.34 --> 6506.34] Thank you. -[6534.34 --> 6536.34] Thank you. -[6564.34 --> 6566.34] Thank you. -[6594.34 --> 6596.34] Thank you. -[6624.34 --> 6626.34] Thank you. -[6626.34 --> 6627.34] Thank you. -[6627.34 --> 6628.34] God bless you. -[6628.34 --> 6629.34] Thank you. -[6629.34 --> 6630.34] Thank you. -[6630.34 --> 6631.34] Thank you. -[6631.34 --> 6632.34] Thank you. -[6632.34 --> 6633.34] Thank you. -[6633.34 --> 6663.32] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - December 5, 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - December 5, 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 30aecca80e31ed73f6aece36d67b1429f193ba37..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - December 5, 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,119 +0,0 @@ -• Joy comes in the morning -• Overcoming darkness and finding hope -• Jesus Christ as the Savior and King -• The promise of eternal life and peace -• The birth of Jesus and its significance -• Worship and praise to God -• Rejoicing at the gift of salvation -• Introduction to worship service and welcome -• New policy and mandates for worship gatherings due to COVID-19 -• Announcements: - + Kids choir practice after service - + Youth coffee after service - + Applications for Mexico mission trip available via email - + Lord's Supper celebration next Sunday -• Candle lighting service: waiting for the coming of Christ, refining, and purification through love and righteousness -• Worship service or praise, mentioning kings stepping down from thrones and lords abandoning their homes -• Sacrificial love of Jesus Christ, referencing his birth, death, and resurrection -• Personal gratitude to God for faith and hope in eternal life -• Relationship with God, referencing hearing His voice and being grateful for the cross -• Theme of waiting or expecting Jesus' return -• Gratitude expressed for someone's actions -• Hadil Murad shares her story of coming to Canada and gratitude towards the church and individuals who helped her family -• Refugee sponsorship program discussed as a Christmas season opportunity to support a refugee family -• Budget collection and second offering for refugee sponsorship announced -• Personal thanks from Hadil to specific individuals, including Maggie and others -• Discussion about the cost of sponsoring a refugee family -• Plans for a two-year period to gather funds -• Importance of giving and helping others, citing biblical references -• Church's role in bringing help to those in need from other parts of the world -• Appreciation from those helped, thanking God for the church's care and provision -• Praises for a holy God, highlighting unique qualities and attributes -• Invitation to come and worship the Holy God -• Children's discussion about what they would see, hear, and smell in a barn -• Connection between barns and Jesus' birth -• Upcoming congregational meeting on Zoom -• Year-end giving opportunities within the church -• Support for various ministries and activities, including flood relief and refugee sponsorship -• Bob Biss has been cleared of lymphoma -• Church members prayed for his healing and celebration of good news -• Memorial service held for brother Dave, praying for family's blessing -• Prayers for those affected by loss, unable to gather for holidays, and struggling with stress -• University students prayed for clarity of mind and endurance during exams -• Those impacted by work changes and shortages prayed for help and trust in God -• Community members affected by flooding and landslides prayed for support and nearness -• Prayers for health concerns, elderly individuals, and those recovering from surgery or illness -• Pandemic-related struggles with anxiety, mental health, loneliness, and depression prayed for support and guidance -• Prayer for leaders and government officials during pandemic -• Requesting wisdom and authority from God for church leaders and denomination -• Prayers for congregational meeting, technical aspects, and unity within the church community -• Asking for grace, unity, and prioritization of kingdom work in daily lives -• Preparing hearts for Lord's Supper and having good conversations with family and others -• Focusing on trust in God during Advent season -• Gratitude for the cross, salvation, and answered prayers -• Requesting God to speak to individuals through Scripture and pastor's message -• Reading of Luke 2:8-20 from the Bible -• Story of angels appearing to shepherds and announcing the birth of Jesus -• Shepherds visiting the baby Jesus with Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem -• Reflection on how familiarity can breed indifference to Advent and Christmas -• Warning that sentimental views of Christmas may not truly engage with its meaning -• Transition from Halloween to Christmas -• Sentimentality and superficiality in celebrating Christmas -• Distinguishing between mere sentimentality and genuine love for Christmas -• The importance of capturing the true meaning and significance of Christmas -• Overcoming apathy and indifference towards Advent and Christmas -• The census in Bethlehem creates tension and anxiety -• In today's world, the census is often seen as a mundane task, but historically it was a tool for oppressive governments to exert control -• The shepherds who appeared at Jesus' birth were likely marginalized and oppressed people who were wary of authority -• Luke emphasizes that the shepherds were from a lower social class, highlighting the humble nature of Jesus' arrival -• Similarities between two biblical stories (Luke 2 and Luke 9) -• Importance of grammatical analysis in understanding the meaning behind a story -• Purposeful repetition of pronouns or nouns in storytelling -• Focus on shepherds as leaders in both stories, highlighting their significance -• Common misconceptions about shepherds being depicted as old men working on farms -• A shepherd's life involves hard labor and living in harsh conditions with sheep -• Contrary to popular depictions, shepherds lived in the Judean wilderness outside of Bethlehem, not in hospitable surroundings -• Shepherding required a specific type of person who could handle constant threats from wild animals and harsh weather -• A Jewish midrash on Psalm 23 describes how people viewed shepherding as a despised occupation -• The Babylonian Talmud is a collection of teachings from rabbis and spiritual leaders based on oral tradition and interpretation of the Bible. -• It was compiled after the exile, around 200 B.C., and continued through the 12th-5th century A.D. -• The Talmud says that shepherds are considered liars and thieves, making them unfit as witnesses in a court of law. -• This is significant because God called shepherds to be the first witnesses of Jesus' birth, despite their unreliability. -• Similarly, women were also unable to serve as legal witnesses at the time, but they were among the first witnesses of Jesus' resurrection. -• Luke's writing style and intentional use of unlikely witnesses in his Gospel -• The narrative of Mary, Magdalene, Joanna, and other women being doubted by the disciples in Luke 24:10-11 -• The gospel story being bookended by "impossible" or "unlikely" witnesses -• The message of Jesus being given to people who would not normally be listened to -• The risk of turning Christmas stories into a sanitized version that loses its original meaning and message -• The danger of making God smaller by trying to put him in a box we can comprehend -• The importance of recognizing the scandal of God using ordinary, unimportant people to spread his message -• Three reactions to Jesus: hatred, fear/indifference, and devotion -• Jesus' response to people varies from rejection, indifference, or enthusiastic devotion -• The Bible reveals that everyone who met Jesus had a strong reaction, not a moderate one -• John Stott's book "Basic Christianity" is referenced as supporting this view -• Jesus came in humility and love, yet was rejected by many -• He was willing to suffer and die for the salvation of humanity -• What people are willing to do for loved ones versus what they're willing to do for their faith -• The difficulty of making time for spiritual practices and reading the Bible -• Fear of opinion or ridicule from others influencing one's decision to engage with Jesus -• The importance of taking small steps towards a deeper relationship with God, such as personal devotions and Bible reading -• The idea that responding to the gospel requires an extreme commitment, either embracing it fully or rejecting it entirely -• The importance of witnessing and sharing one's experiences with Jesus -• The reaction of the shepherds to their encounter with Jesus, including spreading the word about what they had seen and heard -• The idea that those who have met and been met by Jesus cannot help but speak his name and proclaim his gospel -• The connection between witnessing and worship -• The importance of not settling for mere sentimentality or superficial faith during Advent and Christmas -• The importance of being a witness to the gospel -• The story of the shepherds in the Bible as an example of unlikely witnesses -• Encouragement to share the true story of Jesus this Christmas -• A prayer asking God to captivate and stir hearts, and to use each person as a witness -• A reflection on how the world often dismisses or rejects those who are called by God -• A plea for those praying to be used as witnesses and proclaimers of God's glory -• Praying to God for guidance and mercy -• Waiting on God and trusting in His word -• Hope in the Lord's unfailing love -• Redemption from above through Jesus Christ -• Being witnesses of God and proclaiming the gospel truth -• Receiving God's blessing and protection -• Overcoming fear and boldly proclaiming the Lord -• Adoring Jesus Christ as King and Savior \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - December 5, 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - December 5, 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c2c151e5c9be76d9bfb83d01002361772d33f846..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - December 5, 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2090 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.56] said there is sign is sent to overcome the two -[6.56 --> 16.40] but you have lived to see -[16.40 --> 24.48] that joy comes in the morning -[24.48 --> 31.12] foreign -[33.52 --> 40.16] s -[45.44 --> 47.12] me -[54.48 --> 60.08] Woman after woman who will follow -[60.08 --> 66.60] Will carry beauty and a longing of their own -[66.60 --> 72.16] When I hear the rhythm of your name -[72.16 --> 75.46] Oh, I remember once again -[75.46 --> 81.64] That none of us will ache without a living hope -[84.48 --> 103.20] Elizabeth, oh blessed is the one who has believed -[103.20 --> 110.92] In the rising sun -[110.92 --> 117.38] Who will guide our feet into the path of peace -[117.38 --> 126.68] For we will live to see -[126.68 --> 134.42] That joy comes in the morning -[134.42 --> 139.88] Come and lay your hands -[139.88 --> 145.88] On His promises -[145.88 --> 150.56] Oh, find your rest -[150.56 --> 156.76] Come and lay your hands -[156.76 --> 163.22] On His promises -[163.22 --> 168.00] Oh, find your rest -[168.00 --> 168.98] Elizabeth -[168.98 --> 172.22] La da da da da da -[172.22 --> 174.22] La da da da da da da -[174.22 --> 175.84] Oh, Elizabeth -[175.84 --> 183.44] La da da da da da da da da -[205.84 --> 215.84] In the bleak midwinter, all creation groans. -[215.84 --> 225.50] And for a world in darkness, frozen like a stone, light is breaking. -[226.50 --> 230.82] In a stable for a throne. -[230.82 --> 238.82] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore. -[238.82 --> 246.82] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore. -[246.82 --> 254.82] Unto us a child is born, the King of kings and Lord of lords. -[254.82 --> 262.82] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore. -[262.82 --> 270.82] And He shall reign forever, forevermore. -[270.82 --> 278.82] And if I were a wise man, I would travel far. -[278.82 --> 286.82] And if I were a shepherd, I would do my part. -[286.82 --> 294.82] But poor as I am, I will give to Him my heart. -[294.82 --> 302.82] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore. -[302.82 --> 310.82] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore. -[310.82 --> 320.82] And He shall reign forever, forevermore. -[320.82 --> 326.82] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore. -[326.82 --> 330.82] He was made of major lies. -[330.82 --> 333.82] The one who made the starry skies. -[333.82 --> 337.82] This baby born for sacrifice. -[337.82 --> 338.82] Christ the Messiah. -[338.82 --> 339.82] Christ the Messiah. -[339.82 --> 340.82] Christ the Messiah. -[340.82 --> 345.82] To our hopes, into our fears. -[345.82 --> 349.82] The Savior of the world appears. -[349.82 --> 353.82] The promise of eternal years. -[353.82 --> 357.82] Christ the Messiah. -[357.82 --> 358.82] Christ the Messiah. -[358.82 --> 359.82] To our totals of all art. -[359.82 --> 360.50] The Messiah. -[360.50 --> 360.82] To my covenant. -[360.82 --> 362.82] The Lord adorates. -[362.82 --> 363.82] The Lord adorates. -[363.82 --> 364.82] Jesus S Prayer. -[364.82 --> 365.82] To our Body. -[365.82 --> 366.82] To our告. -[366.82 --> 369.82] The Father ad ngh dibuying on our feet. -[369.82 --> 370.82] Ro 소." -[370.82 --> 371.82] Jesus Swear. -[371.82 --> 372.82] Asirasana,étatroe. -[372.82 --> 380.98] He shall reign forevermore, forevermore. -[380.98 --> 388.86] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore. -[389.56 --> 397.24] Unto us a child is born, the King of kings and Lord of lords. -[397.24 --> 404.44] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore. -[407.44 --> 409.84] He shall reign. -[411.52 --> 413.80] He shall reign. -[415.38 --> 417.72] He shall reign. -[427.24 --> 457.22] He shall reign. -[457.22 --> 465.22] It is the night of our dear Savior's birth. -[465.22 --> 473.22] He shall reign. -[473.22 --> 481.22] He shall reign. -[481.22 --> 487.22] And the soul found its worth. -[487.22 --> 491.22] A thrill of hope. -[491.22 --> 501.22] The weary world rejoices for yonder grace. -[501.22 --> 505.22] A new and glorious morn. -[505.22 --> 515.22] Come on, fall on your knees. -[515.22 --> 525.22] O night. -[525.22 --> 527.22] O night. -[527.22 --> 529.22] O night. -[529.22 --> 531.22] Divine. -[531.22 --> 533.22] O night. -[533.22 --> 535.22] O night. -[535.22 --> 537.22] O night. -[537.22 --> 539.22] O night. -[539.22 --> 541.22] O night. -[541.22 --> 543.22] Divine. -[543.22 --> 545.22] O night. -[545.22 --> 547.22] Divine. -[547.22 --> 549.22] Divine. -[549.22 --> 551.22] Divine. -[551.22 --> 553.22] Divine. -[553.22 --> 555.22] O night. -[555.22 --> 557.22] O night. -[557.22 --> 559.22] Divine. -[559.22 --> 560.22] Divine. -[560.22 --> 561.22] O night. -[561.22 --> 562.22] O night. -[562.22 --> 563.22] O night. -[563.22 --> 565.22] O night. -[565.22 --> 567.22] O night. -[567.22 --> 569.22] O night. -[569.22 --> 571.22] O night. -[571.22 --> 573.22] O night. -[573.22 --> 575.22] O night. -[575.22 --> 576.22] O night. -[576.22 --> 578.22] O night. -[578.22 --> 579.22] O night. -[579.22 --> 581.22] O night. -[581.22 --> 589.36] everyone. Welcome once again to church. My name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors here, and it's -[589.36 --> 595.80] my privilege to lead you along with these others and a couple more yet in worship this morning. -[596.52 --> 602.16] If you are joining us online, welcome to you. Thank you for clicking on that link and checking -[602.16 --> 610.10] us out. We are piloting a new feature for our live stream this morning as we have embedded that to -[610.10 --> 615.30] our new church website, and so there's a new place to experience that. And so if you have feedback and -[615.30 --> 620.38] you're participating online, I'd love to hear it this week, and we can make that a better experience -[620.38 --> 628.36] for everyone going forward. As I look out at you, I see that you have probably all heard about the new -[628.36 --> 635.28] policy and mandates for worship gatherings here in BC, and so I just want to remind you that we are -[635.28 --> 641.72] required to keep our masks on for the duration of the service unless you are up speaking and leading -[641.72 --> 649.90] here. And so please be intentional with that and be diligent in that together so that we can continue -[649.90 --> 656.20] worshiping as a community this season. Before we begin, I have just a couple announcements. -[657.24 --> 664.02] First of all, there is kids choir practice following worship this morning in the multi-purpose room. -[664.02 --> 673.02] And I was instructed to say it would be really helpful if at least one parent or guardian of the kids -[673.02 --> 680.12] in the choir could hang out in that room to encourage obedient participation. -[684.52 --> 689.74] And I say that as a parent who has kids in the choir and will probably have to be there himself -[689.74 --> 698.04] following. So, 11 30-ish after service today. Also, later after service is youth coffee. If you haven't -[698.04 --> 702.08] heard about that and you're part of our youth program here, you can ask Pastor Kevin about questions, -[702.20 --> 712.18] but that's happening this afternoon too. Also, the applications for the Mexico mission trip have been -[712.18 --> 718.74] emailed out. That is a trip that is happening during spring break next year, Lord willing. And so the -[718.74 --> 725.90] applications for that have been emailed out. The deadline for return is December 18 to Brandon Muller -[725.90 --> 732.08] in his church mailbox, please. And so if you've received that application, you can talk to Brandon or Mike -[732.08 --> 738.74] if you have questions about that and then return it to Brandon's church mailbox. Also, I wanted to stress -[738.74 --> 745.54] and I was told to stress that while this event happens during spring break and sort of targets the youth -[745.54 --> 751.74] in our church, anyone is invited to go. And so if you are not a youth but would like to participate in -[751.74 --> 756.40] this trip, you are also invited to talk to Brandon or Mike and figure out the details for that. -[758.06 --> 763.88] Finally, next week Sunday when we gather here or if you are participating online when you gather -[763.88 --> 769.74] wherever you are, we will be celebrating Lord's Supper together. And so we want to tell you that a week early -[769.74 --> 774.94] so that you have a chance to have the things ready, bread and juice or the like, so that you can -[774.94 --> 780.88] participate at home. But also, and more importantly, so that you can spend this next week preparing your -[780.88 --> 786.06] hearts, having the kinds of conversations you need with your brothers or sisters or with your kids, -[786.10 --> 790.98] if you are parents, so that we can all come to the table meaningfully together. If you have any -[790.98 --> 796.18] questions about that process or experience, you can grab me or connect with me throughout the week as well. -[796.18 --> 801.46] So, begin our worship. We're going to continue with the candle lighting service. And so I'm going to ask -[801.46 --> 806.06] if Judy and Eneke come to the front and lead us in that. -[826.18 --> 853.04] C. God is lighting. God is sending God's messenger to prepare the way. -[853.04 --> 858.98] C. God is lighting. The one whom we seek is indeed coming. -[862.98 --> 865.46] We wait for the one who refines us. -[868.40 --> 871.04] We wait for the one who purifies us. -[874.28 --> 877.94] The Lord's purifying fire burns with love for us. -[877.94 --> 886.74] The Lord's cleansing soap washes us in his love. -[893.46 --> 900.12] We light the love candle this week because as we wait for the Lord's coming, we remember that Christ -[900.12 --> 905.58] has already demonstrated his great love for us so that we can be refined by his righteousness. -[905.58 --> 915.46] When we see the love candle shining, we remember that our waiting is not empty, but must be filled with love for others. -[915.94 --> 919.62] For as Christ loves us, so we must love each other. -[921.52 --> 929.62] We pray, God of love, may your spirit spur us to actions of love during this period of waiting. -[929.62 --> 935.50] Jesus, the Son, has shown us what true love requires. -[937.82 --> 941.38] Submission, sacrifice, and sanctification. -[942.26 --> 948.64] May we emulate his ways so that the world may know of your great love. -[949.28 --> 951.48] In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. -[951.48 --> 951.56] Amen. -[951.56 --> 951.58] Amen. -[951.58 --> 951.60] Amen. -[959.62 --> 971.30] As you are able and where you are, I'm going to invite you to stand and take a posture of a seat as God welcomes us into his presence to worship him. -[974.42 --> 983.20] This Sunday morning, grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, -[983.58 --> 986.22] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[986.90 --> 989.34] All God's people said, Amen. -[989.62 --> 994.62] Amen. -[994.62 --> 994.88] Amen. -[995.52 --> 996.56] Amen. -[996.56 --> 996.78] Amen. -[996.78 --> 997.92] Amen. -[1006.48 --> 1010.88] Amen. -[1010.88 --> 1011.16] Amen. -[1011.16 --> 1020.68] Oh, the star to a place unexpected -[1020.68 --> 1025.56] Fruity in the name of the rolling projectors -[1025.56 --> 1027.80] Trought in a manger -[1027.80 --> 1034.52] Lowly and small, the weakens of all -[1034.52 --> 1036.94] The lightliest hero -[1036.94 --> 1041.60] Trought in his mother's shoulders to shine -[1041.60 --> 1045.68] Is this who we've waited for? -[1048.86 --> 1053.60] Because how many kings stepped out from their clothes? -[1053.60 --> 1058.28] How many lords have abandoned their homes? -[1058.70 --> 1063.88] How many greats have become the least for me? -[1063.88 --> 1072.28] How many ghosts have poured out their hearts -[1072.28 --> 1076.66] To romance a world that is torn all apart? -[1076.66 --> 1083.62] How many fathers gave up their sons for me? -[1083.62 --> 1091.02] Bringing our gifts for the newborn Savior -[1091.02 --> 1095.48] All that we have, whether costly or meek -[1095.48 --> 1098.62] Because we believe -[1098.62 --> 1106.28] Gold for his honor and frankincense for his pleasure -[1106.28 --> 1109.94] And burn for the cross and he'll suffer -[1109.94 --> 1112.10] Do you believe -[1112.10 --> 1116.12] Is this who we've waited for? -[1118.78 --> 1123.78] How many kings stepped down from their thrones? -[1124.20 --> 1128.48] How many lords have abandoned their homes? -[1128.48 --> 1134.30] How many greats have become the least for me? -[1134.30 --> 1142.58] How many gods have poured out their hearts? -[1142.58 --> 1147.08] Romance a world that is torn all apart -[1147.08 --> 1153.12] How many fathers gave up their sons for me? -[1153.12 --> 1158.94] Only one did that for me? -[1158.94 --> 1159.94] Only one did that for me -[1159.94 --> 1170.80] How many kings stepped down from their thrones? -[1170.80 --> 1175.44] How many lords have abandoned their homes? -[1175.44 --> 1179.92] How many greats have become the least? -[1179.92 --> 1184.74] How many gods have poured out their hearts? -[1184.74 --> 1185.74] How many gods have poured out their hearts? -[1185.74 --> 1188.74] To romance a world that is torn all apart? -[1188.74 --> 1194.74] How many fathers gave up their sons for me? -[1194.74 --> 1199.74] Only one did that for me -[1199.74 --> 1201.74] How many fathers gave up their sons for me? -[1201.74 --> 1203.74] Only one did that for me -[1203.74 --> 1211.56] All of creation -[1211.56 --> 1216.56] opian rock -[1216.56 --> 1222.56] Subtitling 153 -[1222.56 --> 1235.92] All of creation, all of the earth -[1235.92 --> 1240.30] Make straight a life for the Lord -[1240.30 --> 1246.56] Jesus is coming soon -[1246.56 --> 1253.92] Pull back the sin, wake up the saints -[1253.92 --> 1258.70] Let every nation shout at your name -[1258.70 --> 1265.76] Jesus is coming soon -[1265.76 --> 1273.16] Like a ride waiting for her groom -[1273.16 --> 1277.28] We'll be a church ready for you -[1277.28 --> 1282.16] Every heart longing for our King -[1282.16 --> 1287.30] We sing even so come -[1287.30 --> 1291.60] Lord Jesus come -[1291.60 --> 1296.60] Even so come -[1296.60 --> 1301.16] Lord Jesus come -[1301.16 --> 1308.40] There will be justice, all will be due -[1308.40 --> 1313.00] Your name forever, faithful and true -[1313.00 --> 1319.28] Jesus is coming soon -[1319.28 --> 1327.16] Like a ride waiting for her groom -[1327.16 --> 1331.28] We'll be a church ready for you -[1331.28 --> 1336.16] Every heart longing for our King -[1336.16 --> 1341.16] We sing even so come -[1341.16 --> 1346.16] Lord Jesus come -[1346.16 --> 1350.16] Even so come -[1350.16 --> 1357.40] Lord Jesus come -[1357.40 --> 1359.16] So we wait -[1359.16 --> 1363.16] We wait for you -[1363.16 --> 1368.16] God we wait -[1368.16 --> 1372.16] You're coming soon -[1372.16 --> 1379.16] We wait for you -[1379.16 --> 1381.16] We wait for you -[1381.16 --> 1383.16] God we wait -[1383.16 --> 1385.16] You're coming soon -[1385.16 --> 1387.16] We wait for you -[1387.16 --> 1394.16] You're coming soon -[1394.16 --> 1399.16] Like a ride waiting for her groom -[1399.16 --> 1403.16] We'll be a church ready for you -[1403.16 --> 1408.16] Every heart longing for our King -[1408.16 --> 1411.16] We sing -[1411.16 --> 1416.16] Like a ride waiting for her groom -[1416.16 --> 1418.16] We'll be a church ready for her groom -[1418.16 --> 1420.16] We'll be a church ready for you -[1420.16 --> 1427.16] Every heart longing for our King -[1427.16 --> 1431.16] She's gonna be a church ready for her groom -[1431.16 --> 1436.00] Lord Jesus come -[1436.00 --> 1440.64] Even so come -[1440.64 --> 1445.16] Lord Jesus come -[1461.16 --> 1466.66] Dear God, we are so thankful for the good news -[1466.66 --> 1472.94] That you, our Christ, came to this world in human flesh as a baby -[1472.94 --> 1478.78] That through your birth, sacrificial death, and resurrection -[1478.78 --> 1483.64] We have the faith and hope of eternal life -[1483.64 --> 1487.32] For this, we are so grateful -[1487.32 --> 1488.84] Amen -[1491.16 --> 1517.60] Ten-nine ways for me -[1517.60 --> 1520.88] To draw near to you -[1520.88 --> 1525.04] But you close yourself with frail humanity -[1525.04 --> 1530.04] You did not wait for me -[1530.04 --> 1533.12] To cry out to you -[1533.12 --> 1537.28] But you let me hear your voice calling me -[1537.28 --> 1541.44] And I'm forever grateful to you -[1541.44 --> 1550.60] I'm forever grateful for the cross -[1550.60 --> 1555.76] I'm forever grateful to you -[1555.76 --> 1556.92] That you came to see you -[1556.92 --> 1564.92] That you came to seek and save the lost -[1564.92 --> 1574.08] You did not wait for me -[1574.08 --> 1575.24] You did not wait for me -[1575.24 --> 1583.24] And I'm forever grateful to you -[1583.24 --> 1584.40] You did not wait for me -[1584.40 --> 1585.40] You did not wait for me -[1585.40 --> 1587.40] You did not wait for me to cry out to you -[1587.40 --> 1592.40] But you let me hear your voice calling me -[1592.40 --> 1597.56] And I'm forever grateful to you -[1597.56 --> 1600.72] And I'm forever grateful for the cross -[1600.72 --> 1602.72] And I'm forever grateful for the cross -[1602.72 --> 1606.72] And I'm forever grateful to you -[1606.72 --> 1610.88] And I'm forever grateful to you -[1610.88 --> 1611.88] And I'm forever grateful to you -[1611.88 --> 1615.88] And I'm forever grateful to you -[1615.88 --> 1625.04] And I'm forever grateful to you -[1625.04 --> 1626.04] And I'm forever grateful to you -[1626.04 --> 1630.04] And I'm forever grateful to you -[1630.04 --> 1632.04] And I'm forever grateful to you -[1632.04 --> 1637.04] And I'm forever grateful to you -[1637.04 --> 1647.04] That you came to seek and save the lost -[1647.04 --> 1677.02] I'm forever grateful to you -[1677.02 --> 1678.02] Good morning everyone -[1678.02 --> 1682.02] It's time for the budget -[1682.02 --> 1686.02] So first collection today is for the budget -[1686.02 --> 1689.02] And the second one to be for the refugee sponsorship -[1689.02 --> 1692.02] I have beside me here Hadil Murad -[1692.02 --> 1696.02] Daughter, the oldest child of the Murad family -[1696.02 --> 1698.02] And her parents are here with us -[1698.02 --> 1704.02] And they, Hadil arrived two years ago, September 16 -[1704.02 --> 1708.02] I remember it well picking you up from the airport -[1708.02 --> 1709.02] And here you are -[1709.02 --> 1713.02] And Hadil would like to say something to us this morning -[1713.02 --> 1715.02] Yeah -[1715.02 --> 1729.02] Oh, no, no, nothing, okay -[1729.02 --> 1730.02] Okay -[1730.02 --> 1734.02] Okay -[1734.02 --> 1735.02] Hi everyone -[1735.02 --> 1736.02] My name is Hadil -[1736.02 --> 1743.02] And today I will present a short speech on behave on my father -[1743.02 --> 1745.02] Good morning to you all -[1745.02 --> 1748.02] Good morning to my dearest family at Emmanuel Church -[1748.02 --> 1753.02] This week I have successfully completed two years and two months in Canada -[1753.02 --> 1760.02] Thanks to the grace of God and the church that embraced me and my family -[1760.02 --> 1767.02] I would like to thank everyone who has aided me in my troubles in the midst of COVID -[1767.02 --> 1773.02] Those who haven't left me till this day and who made me feel like a son to you -[1773.02 --> 1784.02] I would like to personally thank my uncle Peter, Maggie, Pearl, Margaret, Caroline and Wiki and John -[1784.02 --> 1788.02] And a lot of you who have been with me -[1788.02 --> 1792.02] Also the father of this church who blesses us all -[1792.02 --> 1797.02] I would like to specially show my appreciation towards Maggie -[1797.02 --> 1801.02] Who is stuck by me and my daughter Hilda -[1801.02 --> 1807.02] In her times of need with transportation to school -[1807.02 --> 1810.02] Every day I thank God that I am with you -[1810.02 --> 1813.02] And would love for you to visit me at home -[1813.02 --> 1816.02] Don't forget me, your son Nashwan -[1816.02 --> 1819.02] With all love Nashwan and my family -[1819.02 --> 1822.02] Beautiful, very good -[1822.02 --> 1830.02] I really appreciate that -[1830.02 --> 1839.02] We really appreciate like everything you did for us -[1839.02 --> 1840.02] Till this day -[1840.02 --> 1842.02] Beautiful -[1842.02 --> 1847.02] Now, Hadil, you only had -[1847.02 --> 1849.02] That was a perfect speech -[1849.02 --> 1850.02] There was one mistake -[1850.02 --> 1851.02] Yeah -[1851.02 --> 1853.02] You called Hilda your daughter -[1853.02 --> 1854.02] She's your sister -[1854.02 --> 1855.02] Oh yeah -[1855.02 --> 1857.02] I have to mention this -[1857.02 --> 1860.02] My dad was supposed to read the speech -[1860.02 --> 1862.02] But yeah -[1862.02 --> 1865.02] But because his language he couldn't unfortunately -[1865.02 --> 1867.02] So I'm here so we're good -[1867.02 --> 1869.02] Oh perfect answer -[1869.02 --> 1870.02] Okay awesome -[1870.02 --> 1872.02] You can sit down now -[1872.02 --> 1873.02] I'm gonna -[1873.02 --> 1874.02] Okay -[1874.02 --> 1875.02] Okay -[1875.02 --> 1878.02] So that's the lead up to our offering for today -[1878.02 --> 1881.02] And I know maybe some of you aren't prepared for it -[1881.02 --> 1884.02] But it can still come into this calendar year -[1884.02 --> 1887.02] You know when I look at our bullet -[1887.02 --> 1889.02] No, our church is very, very generous -[1889.02 --> 1895.02] We have as our deacons have always a very healthy selection of causes that we can support -[1895.02 --> 1900.02] And I know that some of you have picked some and your whole heart and soul goes into it -[1900.02 --> 1901.02] I can understand that -[1901.02 --> 1903.02] That's the same for me with the refugee -[1903.02 --> 1905.02] With the refugee sponsorship program -[1905.02 --> 1906.02] But I would like -[1906.02 --> 1909.02] This is an awesome opportunity this Christmas season -[1909.02 --> 1910.02] Even with your -[1910.02 --> 1912.02] Some of us who are older -[1912.02 --> 1913.02] As grandparents -[1913.02 --> 1915.02] We could talk to our grandchildren -[1915.02 --> 1921.02] About how you could sponsor a refugee family through our church -[1921.02 --> 1922.02] Or as parents -[1922.02 --> 1924.02] This is an opportunity for your children -[1924.02 --> 1927.02] Something very, very tangible -[1927.02 --> 1928.02] So anyway -[1928.02 --> 1930.02] Yeah, we're going -[1930.02 --> 1931.02] As I mentioned last Sunday -[1931.02 --> 1932.02] We were disappointed -[1932.02 --> 1934.02] We had a family already booked -[1934.02 --> 1935.02] To go -[1935.02 --> 1938.02] And they found another way to get out of the country -[1938.02 --> 1941.02] So now we're looking starting up from scratch -[1941.02 --> 1942.02] It's not cheap -[1942.02 --> 1946.02] We figure it's gonna cost us 30 to 35 thousand dollars -[1946.02 --> 1949.02] We hope this will probably happen over a two year period -[1949.02 --> 1952.02] So we'll have time to gather our funds and whatever -[1952.02 --> 1957.02] But we would like to have a good start with a collection this Sunday -[1957.02 --> 1960.02] The Lord loves the cheerful giver -[1960.02 --> 1962.02] The Lord loves the alien -[1962.02 --> 1964.02] The Lord loves the oppressed -[1964.02 --> 1967.02] And we've had an opportunity as a church -[1967.02 --> 1971.02] To bring in folk from other parts of the world -[1971.02 --> 1973.02] Where there's a lot of suffering -[1973.02 --> 1974.02] And we can do our part -[1974.02 --> 1975.02] And as you can see -[1975.02 --> 1977.02] If you get to know them, you're at family -[1977.02 --> 1980.02] They thank God every day for our church -[1980.02 --> 1985.02] But primarily they thank God for his care and provision -[1985.02 --> 1986.02] Thank you -[1986.02 --> 1987.02] Thank you -[1987.42 --> 1998.02] 52 -[1998.02 --> 1999.10] 値 I -[1999.10 --> 2000.16] 80 -[2000.16 --> 2019.48] Who else can cleanse all the hosts of heaven? -[2020.86 --> 2025.46] Who else can make every king bow down? -[2025.46 --> 2031.38] Who else can whisper and darkness tremble? -[2032.56 --> 2036.58] Only a holy God. -[2039.28 --> 2043.72] What other beauty demands such praises. -[2045.02 --> 2049.16] What other splendor outshines the sun. -[2049.16 --> 2055.16] What other majesty rules with justice. -[2056.36 --> 2060.38] Only a holy God. -[2063.08 --> 2066.96] Come and be on Him. -[2067.30 --> 2071.70] Go on and be on me. -[2071.70 --> 2076.18] Cry out, sing on me. -[2076.44 --> 2079.70] Forever a holy God. -[2079.70 --> 2084.62] Come and worship the holy God. -[2084.62 --> 2099.34] What other glory consumes like fire. -[2100.60 --> 2105.20] What other power can raise the dead. -[2105.20 --> 2111.12] What other name remains undefeated. -[2112.12 --> 2115.70] Only a holy God. -[2115.70 --> 2122.70] Come and be on me. -[2122.70 --> 2123.44] Behold Him. -[2123.44 --> 2127.70] The one and the only. -[2127.70 --> 2132.76] Cry out, sing on me. -[2132.76 --> 2136.72] Forever a holy God. -[2136.72 --> 2141.66] Come and worship the holy God. -[2141.66 --> 2144.32] Come and be on me. -[2144.32 --> 2146.32] Behold Him. -[2146.32 --> 2146.82] Behold Him. -[2146.82 --> 2151.32] The one and the only. -[2151.32 --> 2156.08] Cry out, sing on me. -[2156.08 --> 2160.08] Forever a holy God. -[2160.08 --> 2164.82] Come and worship the holy God. -[2164.82 --> 2179.16] Who else could rescue me from my failing? -[2179.16 --> 2184.16] Who else could offer His only Son? -[2184.16 --> 2186.16] Who else could offer His only Son? -[2186.16 --> 2190.16] Who else might cease to call Him Father? -[2190.16 --> 2191.16] Only a holy God. -[2191.16 --> 2192.16] Only a holy God. -[2192.16 --> 2193.16] Only a holy God. -[2193.16 --> 2195.16] Only a holy God. -[2195.16 --> 2197.16] Only a holy God. -[2197.16 --> 2200.16] Only my holy God. -[2200.16 --> 2206.16] Come and be on me. -[2206.16 --> 2207.16] Come and be on me. -[2207.16 --> 2211.16] For I am the only. -[2211.16 --> 2215.16] Cry out, sing on me. -[2215.16 --> 2218.16] For I am the only one. -[2218.16 --> 2225.16] Come and worship the Holy God. -[2226.62 --> 2230.16] Come and behold Him, -[2231.10 --> 2235.16] the one and the only. -[2236.10 --> 2239.16] Cry out, sing holy, -[2240.34 --> 2243.16] forever a Holy God. -[2243.16 --> 2248.66] Come and worship the Holy God. -[2261.80 --> 2264.96] All right, kids, I'd like to invite you up front for Kids Corner. -[2265.14 --> 2265.84] Come on up front. -[2273.16 --> 2278.22] Good morning. -[2278.32 --> 2279.62] How's everybody doing this morning? -[2281.48 --> 2284.00] Anybody notice something interesting about me right now? -[2285.38 --> 2287.50] This is like the best time of the year for me. -[2287.56 --> 2288.14] I get to wear this. -[2288.14 --> 2289.32] I wear this every day. -[2290.82 --> 2291.66] Isn't it cool? -[2292.88 --> 2295.98] Does anybody here in this group have a Christmas sweater? -[2296.32 --> 2297.12] I see one there. -[2297.96 --> 2298.44] At home? -[2299.28 --> 2301.02] Is it an ugly one or is it a nice one? -[2303.90 --> 2304.78] Shirt and sweater. -[2304.82 --> 2305.18] How about you? -[2309.66 --> 2310.70] It's a nice one. -[2310.90 --> 2311.32] Right on. -[2312.36 --> 2313.36] Well, what's on my sweater? -[2313.44 --> 2314.02] What's on here? -[2314.12 --> 2314.80] Who is this guy? -[2314.96 --> 2315.32] Rudolph. -[2315.32 --> 2315.60] Rudolph. -[2316.52 --> 2322.14] Is Christmas about Rudolph or is it about something else? -[2323.18 --> 2324.18] Zoe, what's it about? -[2324.32 --> 2325.36] It's about Jesus. -[2326.62 --> 2328.66] And I was wondering, thinking this morning, -[2328.78 --> 2330.62] where was Jesus born? -[2330.82 --> 2331.60] Does anybody know? -[2331.70 --> 2332.48] Does anybody remember? -[2332.48 --> 2332.56] Remember? -[2332.82 --> 2333.14] Where? -[2336.52 --> 2337.20] He's in heaven. -[2337.24 --> 2338.02] But where was he born? -[2339.26 --> 2340.72] In what kind of building? -[2341.92 --> 2342.28] Yeah. -[2345.02 --> 2346.18] In the barn. -[2346.54 --> 2348.00] So what I want you guys to do right now -[2348.00 --> 2349.08] is I want you to close your eyes -[2349.08 --> 2350.16] and I want you to think for a minute. -[2350.32 --> 2352.70] If you were to walk into a barn right now, -[2352.80 --> 2356.22] what are some of the things you would see, hear, or smell? -[2357.06 --> 2358.00] Anybody got any ideas? -[2358.42 --> 2359.22] Give me some answers. -[2359.84 --> 2360.08] Yeah. -[2360.08 --> 2360.12] Yeah. -[2361.64 --> 2364.12] You would smell some funny stuff in there. -[2364.20 --> 2364.42] Okay. -[2364.52 --> 2365.16] Good answer. -[2366.88 --> 2367.78] And you have a barn? -[2367.86 --> 2368.94] You would know what that smells like? -[2368.98 --> 2369.26] Okay. -[2369.36 --> 2369.58] Good. -[2370.10 --> 2372.36] Zoe, what would you hear, smell, or see? -[2375.76 --> 2376.96] You would hear mooing. -[2377.02 --> 2378.80] That's probably from a goat. -[2379.22 --> 2379.70] Oh, cow. -[2380.06 --> 2380.26] Okay. -[2380.70 --> 2381.16] That's right. -[2381.20 --> 2381.38] Right? -[2381.46 --> 2382.18] Farmer person. -[2383.02 --> 2383.62] What else? -[2383.62 --> 2385.88] You would see horses. -[2387.74 --> 2389.26] What would you, what do you think? -[2390.88 --> 2393.08] You would hear oink, oink from pigs. -[2393.62 --> 2397.20] So it's kind of amazing that Jesus was born in a barn. -[2397.32 --> 2398.18] You would hear sheep. -[2398.46 --> 2399.28] What does sheep say? -[2400.96 --> 2401.36] Right. -[2401.36 --> 2405.06] So it's amazing that Jesus was born in a barn. -[2405.54 --> 2409.70] And we're going to hear more about this today in the story in the back. -[2410.40 --> 2411.82] So why don't I pray with you guys? -[2411.90 --> 2413.06] And then we're going to do the blessing. -[2413.40 --> 2415.90] And then we'll head out in the back and have some fun. -[2416.04 --> 2416.28] All right? -[2417.32 --> 2417.94] Can we pray? -[2418.20 --> 2418.74] Hold your hands. -[2418.80 --> 2419.30] Close your eyes. -[2419.66 --> 2422.56] Heavenly Father, thank you so much for all these children here this morning. -[2423.62 --> 2427.34] Thank you for this time of the year where we can learn about your birth and all about -[2427.34 --> 2429.64] all the stories about that that are around that. -[2429.64 --> 2433.92] I know we hear it often, but it is still a good reminder to hear this every year. -[2433.92 --> 2439.84] Bless the teachers in children's worship time when they share the story to all these kids. -[2440.44 --> 2444.56] And be with all the adults, too, as they hear from Pastor Chris this morning. -[2444.64 --> 2445.38] For Jesus' sake, amen. -[2446.64 --> 2447.98] All right, let's do the blessing. -[2448.18 --> 2449.08] Everybody stand up. -[2451.24 --> 2453.16] You can turn around and face all the big people. -[2453.88 --> 2454.74] Everybody know how to do this? -[2454.78 --> 2455.48] Hands out front. -[2456.24 --> 2456.54] Ready? -[2456.54 --> 2456.62] Ready? -[2457.52 --> 2457.90] The. -[2464.10 --> 2465.32] Thank you. -[2480.78 --> 2481.38] QUESTION LAUGHS -[2485.60 --> 2486.02] Thank you. -[2486.02 --> 2496.80] Good morning. -[2497.46 --> 2498.72] My name is Ken. -[2498.94 --> 2500.78] I'm an elder here at Emanuel Church. -[2501.44 --> 2504.56] And this morning I'll be leading us in our church family prayer. -[2504.84 --> 2506.64] But first I have a couple of announcements. -[2508.64 --> 2512.76] First of all, for all that aren't aware yet, -[2512.76 --> 2514.76] there is a congregational meeting tomorrow. -[2514.76 --> 2516.30] And it is on Zoom. -[2516.44 --> 2518.96] You will find the information in your email. -[2519.52 --> 2524.56] And if you're uncertain, just find any of the elders or staff today -[2524.56 --> 2526.94] and find out the information about that. -[2527.48 --> 2531.06] But we will be gathering on Zoom tomorrow for the congregational meeting. -[2531.24 --> 2534.30] So we'd like to see everyone in attendance virtually there. -[2536.10 --> 2539.84] Additionally, as you're all aware and as Peter was just speaking to, -[2540.16 --> 2541.62] we're approaching the year end. -[2541.62 --> 2546.04] And so one of the big things is all of the opportunities that come up for us -[2546.04 --> 2548.92] to give out of the blessings that God has bestowed on us. -[2549.26 --> 2551.48] And there's actually many opportunities going on right now. -[2551.52 --> 2553.02] I just want to draw attention to some of them. -[2553.32 --> 2557.08] You'll find a lot of information in the e-bulletin and on social media. -[2557.96 --> 2562.54] You'll see a variety of activities that are happening within our church right now, -[2562.62 --> 2564.66] including support for flood relief. -[2564.66 --> 2568.82] There's the Dressember fundraising, the refugee sponsorship, -[2569.66 --> 2572.64] as Peter was talking about, chairs and squares. -[2573.38 --> 2577.36] And, of course, there is our regular ministries of Emanuel Church. -[2577.50 --> 2581.90] And that's something I just want to draw attention to and remind us that at this time, -[2582.44 --> 2585.20] we are still a bit short on our budget giving. -[2585.20 --> 2591.62] And we just want everyone to be thoughtful and mindful and prayerful towards how God has blessed us -[2591.62 --> 2594.04] throughout this year and continues to bless us -[2594.04 --> 2598.62] and how we can continue to support the ministries of this church and of our denomination -[2598.62 --> 2601.62] and of all the different ministries that Emanuel supports. -[2602.58 --> 2605.88] So this is a time where we can reflect on God's blessing -[2605.88 --> 2611.32] and how we can, in turn, give back to the Lord through our budget giving. -[2611.32 --> 2618.64] Additionally, I have an exciting announcement before we go into our church family prayer -[2618.64 --> 2622.84] of news that we received from Bob Biss. -[2622.94 --> 2629.30] As many of you know, Bob has been struggling or dealing with lymphoma -[2629.30 --> 2632.48] and had treatment going on throughout this past year. -[2633.04 --> 2638.44] Well, he just got a message from the doctors this week that he's been cleared of all lymphoma. -[2638.44 --> 2639.70] So praise the Lord. -[2641.32 --> 2645.20] Yeah, we praise God for that. It's exciting news. -[2645.98 --> 2649.30] So now I have the privilege of leading us in our church family prayer. -[2649.56 --> 2652.24] So let's join our hearts together as we come to our Lord in prayer. -[2655.24 --> 2661.42] Gracious God, as we are gathered here as your people in a time of Advent waiting, -[2661.82 --> 2668.20] we are thankful and filled with joy for all of the mercies and blessings that you pour into our lives. -[2668.20 --> 2673.50] Even as we are waiting to celebrate the birth of our Savior into the world, -[2673.90 --> 2681.50] we praise you and glorify you together here for the immeasurable gift of grace that we have in our Savior, Jesus Christ. -[2682.66 --> 2687.02] We recognize that our hope and our comfort come from you alone. -[2687.02 --> 2692.40] We confess, Lord, that all too often we hold back from putting our trust in you, -[2692.80 --> 2695.76] and we try to control our lives on our own. -[2696.84 --> 2698.96] Draw our hearts towards you, Lord. -[2699.68 --> 2703.10] Help us to prioritize spending time in prayer and in the Word, -[2703.56 --> 2705.10] together as brothers and sisters, -[2705.78 --> 2707.04] together with our families, -[2707.54 --> 2710.44] and in individual time of devotion to you. -[2710.44 --> 2713.30] Our hope is in you alone, -[2713.90 --> 2720.50] and so we come to you today as your people to lift up our thanksgiving and our burdens to you. -[2721.94 --> 2725.80] Lord, we are so thankful for the news that we celebrate with Bob -[2725.80 --> 2727.90] about the healing in his body -[2727.90 --> 2734.94] and the ability that he has to continue on in the callings that you've given him, Lord. -[2734.94 --> 2739.06] I pray that you would stay near to his family -[2739.06 --> 2746.26] and help us all to be celebratory and joyful in the gifts of grace you've bestowed in his life. -[2747.86 --> 2752.34] Lord, we were blessed with an opportunity last week to have a memorial service -[2752.34 --> 2754.54] to reflect on the life of our brother Dave. -[2755.42 --> 2757.94] We're thankful for your grace in his life -[2757.94 --> 2760.40] and the impacts that he had on so many people. -[2760.94 --> 2764.60] We continue to pray for your blessings on Juanita and their kids. -[2765.82 --> 2768.74] As we are approaching the season of Christmas gatherings, Lord, -[2768.82 --> 2772.20] we ask for your nearness to all those who have lost loved ones, -[2772.50 --> 2773.92] especially over the past year. -[2775.08 --> 2779.84] We also pray for those who are unable to gather together as family for the holidays -[2779.84 --> 2781.66] for a variety of reasons. -[2783.60 --> 2788.42] Lord, we ask that you uphold all those for whom the end of this year is a challenge -[2788.42 --> 2791.46] or brings on a lot of stress and burdens. -[2791.46 --> 2794.06] We think of our university students, Lord, -[2794.18 --> 2796.30] as they're approaching the times of exams. -[2797.18 --> 2801.18] And we ask, Father, that you would bless them with clarity of mind -[2801.18 --> 2806.54] and the endurance to be able to continue on through the end of this school semester. -[2807.84 --> 2813.76] Lord, we pray for all those whose work has been affected by changes over the last couple years -[2813.76 --> 2818.28] and a lot of additional stress for many people who are working under shortages -[2818.28 --> 2821.02] or challenges in their work environments. -[2821.60 --> 2826.78] Lord, we pray that you'd help us to continue to trust and to put our hope in you. -[2826.78 --> 2833.08] We also lift up all those in our congregation and outside in our community -[2833.08 --> 2838.26] who have been affected by the flooding and landslides and storms that have ravaged this area. -[2839.24 --> 2844.00] And Lord, as we're facing a cold season and snow that can bring on additional challenges, -[2844.72 --> 2847.42] we ask for your nearness and blessing on all those affected. -[2848.50 --> 2852.74] And Lord, we ask that you help us to be a support wherever we can. -[2852.74 --> 2858.38] We also lift up all those with health concerns in our congregation. -[2859.46 --> 2865.30] We pray for those who are getting elderly and that comes with challenges at times, Lord, -[2865.34 --> 2867.38] and we ask that you would be near to them. -[2868.40 --> 2872.96] We pray for Elsa Hubertz as she's still recovering from her fall and surgery, -[2873.16 --> 2875.54] and we ask for a full and speedy recovery for Elsa. -[2877.22 --> 2882.00] And Lord, in this season of drawn-out pandemic, we pray for patience. -[2882.00 --> 2886.52] We pray for our hearts to be considerate and supportive of others. -[2887.74 --> 2892.58] There are so many, Lord, who are struggling at this time with anxiety, -[2893.00 --> 2897.80] with mental health challenges, with loneliness, depression, and many who are shut in. -[2898.64 --> 2902.66] Lord, draw near to them and help each of us to be a support. -[2903.72 --> 2907.04] We also pray for those who are caregivers for all these people. -[2907.04 --> 2912.74] Lord, it can be exhausting at times, and we ask that you would give them the strength and endurance they need -[2912.74 --> 2914.56] to continue on in their service. -[2915.78 --> 2921.94] Lord, we know that you guide us, you guard us, you uphold us, and you befriend us. -[2922.50 --> 2926.76] Help us to trust in you and to know that we not need to be afraid. -[2926.76 --> 2931.56] Lord, give us the strength and encouragement that we need in these times. -[2932.72 --> 2941.92] And Lord, as these times bring all sorts of new challenges, and even today as we are in yet another new protocol for how to do worship services, -[2942.14 --> 2948.36] Lord, we feel the burden of this ongoing pandemic, and we pray for our leaders who are in government -[2948.36 --> 2953.68] and our leaders in our healthcare system who have many difficult decisions to make throughout the way. -[2954.22 --> 2955.46] Lord, we pray for wisdom. -[2956.24 --> 2961.56] We pray that they would exercise the authority that only comes from you, Lord, -[2961.64 --> 2964.76] for we know that all authority in heaven and earth comes from you. -[2965.84 --> 2969.98] Lord, remind us in our hearts that you have all things in your hands, -[2970.42 --> 2974.34] and all things do work together for the good of those who love him. -[2974.34 --> 2982.26] And Lord, we pray for the leaders also in our church and in our denomination. -[2983.26 --> 2986.54] And we pray, God, for the Christian Reformed Church, -[2986.84 --> 2993.84] that you would give our denomination and our leaders the vision and wisdom and energy and action -[2993.84 --> 2997.74] to follow your will and your word for our church. -[2999.62 --> 3004.02] Lord, we pray for the congregational meeting that we'll be having within our own church community tomorrow. -[3004.34 --> 3010.36] We pray, Lord, that the technical aspects of it would go smoothly and that our meeting would be fruitful -[3010.36 --> 3016.94] and that we'd be able to continue to move forward in the ministries of this church in unity. -[3017.74 --> 3024.30] Lord, we pray for grace and unity within our families, in our workplaces, and in your church. -[3025.72 --> 3029.02] Help us, Lord, to put others before ourselves. -[3029.02 --> 3037.90] We ask, Lord, throughout the congregational participation in the life of our church, -[3038.20 --> 3040.96] that your word would be spoken. -[3041.94 --> 3047.82] Lord, let the ministry and outreach of this church continue to declare your kingdom. -[3048.46 --> 3054.06] Help us to be bold and be willing and trusting that we can go forth -[3054.06 --> 3061.02] and declare our salvation and your salvation for us to everyone that we meet. -[3062.62 --> 3068.14] Lord, impress on our hearts the trust and the longing to prioritize your kingdom work. -[3068.58 --> 3072.42] We can get so busy with our own lives and with our own actions and activities. -[3073.24 --> 3079.14] Lord, help us to remember at all times that all things that we are here for is for your glory. -[3079.14 --> 3087.46] And, Lord, we also ask that you would be with us this week as we prepare our hearts for Lord's Supper next week. -[3088.02 --> 3093.82] Help us to have good conversation within our families and with our children and with each other -[3093.82 --> 3097.16] as we focus our hearts around you. -[3099.04 --> 3106.64] And, Lord, we put our hope and our trust in you throughout this time of Advent waiting and forever. -[3106.64 --> 3111.48] We're forever grateful to you for the cross, Lord. -[3112.08 --> 3116.68] We're forever grateful for you that you seek us out and you save us. -[3117.40 --> 3120.68] And we're forever grateful, Lord, that you hear our prayers. -[3121.68 --> 3128.04] And now as we get to hear the word read from Scripture, Lord, and spoken to us by our pastor, -[3128.24 --> 3135.80] we pray that you would speak to us and move us and stir us to continue to grow in faith and in trust of you. -[3135.80 --> 3142.12] And that we would continue to fulfill the ministry and calling you have for each of our lives -[3142.12 --> 3144.32] and our life as a congregation together. -[3144.76 --> 3146.34] We pray this in Jesus' name. -[3147.00 --> 3147.24] Amen. -[3165.80 --> 3179.36] This Advent and Christmas season, we are preaching a teaching series here called Unhallmark Christmas. -[3179.36 --> 3179.50] Unhallmark Christmas. -[3181.18 --> 3185.68] And in that, and Pastor Kevin opened us up last week, we are trying to... -[3185.68 --> 3190.66] How do I say this politely? -[3190.82 --> 3196.84] We are trying to dispel the cultural myths surrounding Advent and Christmas -[3196.84 --> 3202.74] to get beyond the children's Bible versions of these stories. -[3202.74 --> 3206.82] And so even as Mr. Eric was up here, and is Eric back in here? -[3206.88 --> 3207.54] Is he back yet? -[3207.96 --> 3209.76] Because I would say this to his face even if he wasn't. -[3209.84 --> 3210.64] So let me be clear on that. -[3211.42 --> 3215.46] In two weeks' time, we're going to look at the story of the manger in Bethlehem. -[3215.54 --> 3221.24] And boy, is he going to be surprised about what actually happened in that story based on what he told those kids. -[3221.24 --> 3233.70] But that's the kind of place we find ourselves and the need that we have to see these stories as they actually are, -[3233.80 --> 3236.80] as they were intended to be seen, -[3236.80 --> 3245.78] because we have, quite literally, thousands of years cultural influence and formation -[3245.78 --> 3253.22] and veggie tales determining how we understand just what's happening in these stories. -[3254.52 --> 3267.48] One of the challenges of Advent and Christmas is actually the familiarity that we feel to these stories and texts and songs. -[3268.24 --> 3273.06] The challenge that we face, not just as church leaders and pastors or teachers, -[3273.06 --> 3275.34] but as Christians during this time, -[3275.96 --> 3283.32] is letting the familiar address you or letting the familiar arrest you -[3283.32 --> 3286.48] instead of just washing over you. -[3287.88 --> 3291.52] One person that I heard this week put it like this, and I'm going to paraphrase them. -[3291.60 --> 3291.80] They said, -[3292.42 --> 3299.96] the biggest difficulty is that these songs and these stories and this season have sentimental value. -[3299.96 --> 3307.54] And so, what they can do is hijack your heart and prevent the text from speaking to your heart. -[3309.08 --> 3311.26] You've probably heard the phrase before, -[3311.72 --> 3313.38] familiarity breeds contempt. -[3314.34 --> 3319.74] I want to suggest that it's probably more accurate to say familiarity breeds indifference. -[3321.38 --> 3325.52] And that is why we want to un-hallmark Christmas. -[3325.52 --> 3328.48] Like Kevin said last week, -[3328.54 --> 3332.60] we want to put the mess back into Christmas because we are a mess. -[3334.70 --> 3337.98] We want to, in some cases perhaps, -[3338.34 --> 3343.06] shock you with the truth of the Advent and Christmas story. -[3343.74 --> 3347.84] Because too many of us have sort of fallen asleep -[3347.84 --> 3351.68] in our familiarity to these stories and texts. -[3351.68 --> 3356.14] And so, keep that in mind -[3356.14 --> 3359.64] as I read to you Luke 2. -[3360.30 --> 3362.12] And we're going to read 8 to 20. -[3362.18 --> 3362.96] It'll be on the screen. -[3363.10 --> 3365.54] Of course, I encourage you to have it in a Bible, -[3366.00 --> 3368.54] either open or in your hand in front of you. -[3368.54 --> 3375.84] And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, -[3376.76 --> 3378.92] keeping watch over their flocks at night. -[3379.92 --> 3382.54] An angel of the Lord appeared to them, -[3382.64 --> 3384.90] and the glory of the Lord shone around them, -[3385.10 --> 3386.50] and they were terrified. -[3387.50 --> 3389.26] But the angel said to them, -[3389.26 --> 3391.06] Do not be afraid. -[3391.88 --> 3396.46] I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all people. -[3397.20 --> 3398.94] Today, in the town of David, -[3399.08 --> 3400.82] a Savior has been born to you. -[3401.62 --> 3403.96] He is the Messiah, the Lord. -[3404.66 --> 3406.50] This will be a sign to you. -[3406.62 --> 3409.12] You will find a baby wrapped in cloths -[3409.12 --> 3410.76] and lying in a manger. -[3412.04 --> 3414.64] Suddenly, a great company of heavenly hosts -[3414.64 --> 3415.84] appeared with the angel, -[3416.00 --> 3417.34] praising God and saying, -[3417.34 --> 3419.34] Glory to God in the highest heaven -[3419.34 --> 3420.50] and on earth, -[3420.66 --> 3423.94] Peace to those on whom his favor rests. -[3425.18 --> 3427.02] When the angels had left them -[3427.02 --> 3427.96] and gone into heaven, -[3428.06 --> 3429.56] the shepherds said to one another, -[3429.90 --> 3431.32] Let's go to Bethlehem -[3431.32 --> 3432.98] and see this thing that has happened -[3432.98 --> 3434.60] which the Lord has told us about. -[3436.02 --> 3437.10] And so they hurried off -[3437.10 --> 3438.58] and found Mary and Joseph -[3438.58 --> 3440.60] and the baby who was lying in the manger. -[3441.72 --> 3443.04] When they had seen him, -[3443.14 --> 3444.52] they spread word concerning -[3444.52 --> 3446.82] what had been told them about this child -[3446.82 --> 3448.46] and all who heard it -[3448.46 --> 3450.58] were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. -[3451.58 --> 3453.42] But Mary treasured up these things -[3453.42 --> 3455.10] and pondered them in her heart. -[3456.44 --> 3457.80] The shepherds returned, -[3458.74 --> 3460.52] glorifying and praising God -[3460.52 --> 3463.16] for all the things that they had heard and seen -[3463.16 --> 3467.14] which were just as they had been told. -[3468.10 --> 3469.34] This is the word of the Lord. -[3469.34 --> 3475.88] Now when Advent and Christmas -[3475.88 --> 3481.68] are only the hallmarked cultural versions -[3481.68 --> 3484.40] of the stories that we are so familiar with, -[3484.52 --> 3485.98] overly familiar with, -[3486.34 --> 3487.66] to be honest, -[3487.84 --> 3491.60] of course we become indifferent to it. -[3492.42 --> 3492.88] Right? -[3492.92 --> 3493.38] Like we said, -[3493.50 --> 3495.72] familiarity breeds indifference -[3495.72 --> 3497.32] and our hallmarked versions -[3497.32 --> 3498.48] of these stories -[3498.48 --> 3500.46] don't move us. -[3501.52 --> 3502.96] Our hearts have been, -[3503.00 --> 3504.60] in the language of that other person, -[3504.76 --> 3507.70] hijacked towards a mere sentimentality. -[3508.86 --> 3510.20] Now let me be really clear. -[3511.04 --> 3511.20] Okay? -[3511.26 --> 3514.70] Because I'm talking to those of us -[3514.70 --> 3518.20] who are indifferent -[3518.20 --> 3520.18] to Advent and Christmas, -[3520.18 --> 3521.14] to those of us -[3521.14 --> 3522.56] who are just like, -[3523.10 --> 3523.42] meh. -[3524.76 --> 3525.16] Right? -[3525.22 --> 3525.96] You know who you are. -[3527.08 --> 3527.52] Right? -[3527.58 --> 3528.60] You're not quite a Grinch, -[3529.12 --> 3530.56] but you don't really care. -[3531.52 --> 3531.74] Right? -[3531.78 --> 3532.02] You're like, -[3532.06 --> 3532.60] yeah, okay, -[3532.72 --> 3534.26] I know the stories. -[3534.40 --> 3534.52] Right? -[3534.54 --> 3535.00] There's angels -[3535.00 --> 3535.78] and there's shepherds -[3535.78 --> 3536.96] and there's baby Jesus. -[3537.18 --> 3538.06] There's some songs -[3538.06 --> 3538.68] and, you know, -[3538.72 --> 3540.06] there's peppermint lattes -[3540.06 --> 3541.40] and candy cane ice cream. -[3541.80 --> 3542.20] Whatever. -[3543.90 --> 3544.96] And if that's you, -[3545.82 --> 3547.30] I want to shock you -[3547.30 --> 3548.94] with the truth of this story. -[3550.34 --> 3550.82] But, -[3551.60 --> 3552.74] I also, -[3554.24 --> 3555.86] and perhaps even more, -[3556.22 --> 3557.70] want to talk to those of you -[3557.70 --> 3559.70] who love Christmas. -[3560.50 --> 3560.72] Right? -[3560.78 --> 3561.72] The kind of person -[3561.72 --> 3564.38] who asks on November 1st, -[3564.42 --> 3565.06] is it too early -[3565.06 --> 3566.06] to put up the Christmas tree? -[3566.98 --> 3567.22] Right? -[3567.28 --> 3568.04] Halloween is over, -[3568.10 --> 3569.02] the spiders go away -[3569.02 --> 3570.06] and the Santas come out. -[3571.06 --> 3571.54] Right? -[3571.56 --> 3572.28] When that transition -[3572.28 --> 3573.28] from pumpkin spice -[3573.28 --> 3574.44] to eggnog happens, -[3574.50 --> 3575.20] it really is -[3575.20 --> 3576.50] the most wonderful time -[3576.50 --> 3577.02] of the year. -[3578.28 --> 3579.10] I promised Rachel -[3579.10 --> 3579.60] last week -[3579.60 --> 3580.36] after Pastor Kevin -[3580.36 --> 3581.44] sang that song for you -[3581.44 --> 3582.40] that I wouldn't sing -[3582.40 --> 3583.24] that song for you. -[3583.66 --> 3583.86] But, -[3584.46 --> 3585.30] hear Kevin's voice. -[3587.26 --> 3588.34] Let me ask you, -[3588.96 --> 3590.74] if you love Christmas, -[3591.60 --> 3592.58] what do you love -[3592.58 --> 3593.34] about Christmas? -[3593.46 --> 3593.56] Or, -[3593.68 --> 3594.68] if you love Christmas, -[3594.90 --> 3596.58] why do you love Christmas? -[3596.84 --> 3597.62] And I get it, -[3597.66 --> 3597.78] right? -[3597.82 --> 3599.14] I get a number of reasons -[3599.14 --> 3599.34] why. -[3599.50 --> 3600.92] The music is special, -[3601.16 --> 3601.36] right? -[3601.38 --> 3602.74] And it's all the more special -[3602.74 --> 3603.44] because it's really -[3603.44 --> 3605.24] only around for a month -[3605.24 --> 3606.62] or five weeks -[3606.62 --> 3607.56] if you're lucky, -[3608.34 --> 3608.60] right? -[3608.96 --> 3610.30] Around this time of year, -[3610.50 --> 3611.28] we get to get -[3611.28 --> 3613.00] and we get to give gifts -[3613.00 --> 3614.34] and that's a lot of fun. -[3614.44 --> 3615.64] You get to have big dinners. -[3616.30 --> 3617.38] Once upon a time, -[3617.44 --> 3618.08] we had things like -[3618.08 --> 3618.94] office parties, -[3619.40 --> 3619.60] right? -[3620.42 --> 3621.90] Friendsmases happen, -[3622.24 --> 3622.80] Friendsmas, -[3623.18 --> 3623.34] right? -[3623.42 --> 3624.06] Christmas gathering -[3624.06 --> 3624.66] for friends, -[3624.92 --> 3625.08] right? -[3625.08 --> 3626.38] Those are all good things -[3626.38 --> 3627.64] and if you love -[3627.64 --> 3629.00] Advent and Christmas, -[3629.16 --> 3629.78] ask yourself, -[3630.14 --> 3630.58] why? -[3630.84 --> 3632.28] Because is your love -[3632.28 --> 3633.46] of these things -[3633.46 --> 3635.60] really a mere -[3635.60 --> 3636.76] sentimentality? -[3638.36 --> 3639.50] Is it because it's -[3639.50 --> 3641.96] feels nice? -[3644.14 --> 3645.38] And if that's you, -[3646.00 --> 3647.22] I want to challenge you -[3647.22 --> 3647.90] as well. -[3648.58 --> 3649.40] Because you see, -[3649.66 --> 3651.04] whether your approach -[3651.04 --> 3652.34] to Advent and Christmas -[3652.34 --> 3653.56] is meh -[3653.56 --> 3655.64] or it really is for you -[3655.64 --> 3656.60] the most wonderful time -[3656.60 --> 3657.16] of the year, -[3657.56 --> 3658.82] the danger is that -[3658.82 --> 3660.38] both of those attitudes -[3660.38 --> 3661.58] are based on -[3661.58 --> 3663.16] or the result of -[3663.16 --> 3664.80] a mere sentimentality. -[3665.06 --> 3666.60] Either an indifference -[3666.60 --> 3668.68] to what has become sentimental -[3668.68 --> 3671.24] or it's a high sentimentality -[3671.24 --> 3672.70] that hijacks your heart -[3672.70 --> 3674.46] because it feels quaint. -[3676.22 --> 3679.86] The danger of the overly familiar -[3679.86 --> 3683.46] is the danger of a hallmark Christmas. -[3683.46 --> 3685.80] Instead, -[3686.84 --> 3687.08] right, -[3687.14 --> 3688.40] we want the truth -[3688.40 --> 3689.46] of Christmas -[3689.46 --> 3691.14] to captivate -[3691.14 --> 3692.64] your heart. -[3692.94 --> 3693.40] We want the, -[3693.56 --> 3694.36] quite literally, -[3694.54 --> 3695.38] the anxiety -[3695.38 --> 3696.50] of Advent -[3696.50 --> 3697.56] to overcome -[3697.56 --> 3698.72] your apathy. -[3699.48 --> 3700.64] Instead of -[3700.64 --> 3702.16] a hallmarked -[3702.16 --> 3703.46] mere sentimentality, -[3703.70 --> 3704.80] we want you to picture -[3704.80 --> 3705.36] again, -[3705.48 --> 3706.64] to imagine again, -[3706.88 --> 3707.58] Emmanuel, -[3708.18 --> 3709.46] God with us. -[3709.46 --> 3711.64] because really, -[3711.88 --> 3712.56] and again, -[3712.68 --> 3713.98] Pastor Kevin did a great job -[3713.98 --> 3714.96] of starting us off -[3714.96 --> 3715.98] in this last week. -[3716.36 --> 3717.52] These stories, -[3717.78 --> 3719.02] so familiar -[3719.02 --> 3721.12] to most of us, -[3721.38 --> 3722.90] are meant -[3722.90 --> 3724.06] to shock you. -[3726.46 --> 3727.06] And so, -[3727.12 --> 3727.48] the stories -[3727.48 --> 3728.58] begin. -[3729.86 --> 3730.76] In fair Verona, -[3730.88 --> 3731.74] we lay our scene. -[3732.06 --> 3732.34] Except, -[3732.46 --> 3733.24] it's not Verona -[3733.24 --> 3734.50] and this isn't a story -[3734.50 --> 3735.86] about two star-crossed lovers. -[3735.86 --> 3737.72] This is Bethlehem -[3737.72 --> 3739.10] and it is the chaos -[3739.10 --> 3740.30] and the animosity -[3740.30 --> 3741.84] in the culture -[3741.84 --> 3742.62] and in the space -[3742.62 --> 3743.58] because that emperor -[3743.58 --> 3744.48] over in Rome -[3744.48 --> 3745.16] has decided -[3745.16 --> 3746.14] to call a census. -[3747.70 --> 3748.62] And even the act -[3748.62 --> 3750.22] of calling a census -[3750.22 --> 3752.02] creates tension -[3752.02 --> 3753.42] in the story. -[3753.76 --> 3754.44] Something that's really, -[3754.54 --> 3754.84] actually, -[3754.96 --> 3755.70] easily missed -[3755.70 --> 3756.58] in today's world. -[3757.66 --> 3758.94] And for most of us, -[3759.00 --> 3759.36] those of us -[3759.36 --> 3760.16] who are old enough -[3760.16 --> 3761.24] or intentional enough -[3761.24 --> 3762.70] will be aware of this, -[3762.70 --> 3765.30] the most anxiety-inducing thing -[3765.30 --> 3766.04] about the government -[3766.04 --> 3767.10] doing a census, -[3767.52 --> 3767.76] right, -[3767.82 --> 3768.80] for us here in Canada -[3768.80 --> 3769.64] is whether or not -[3769.64 --> 3770.20] you're going to get -[3770.20 --> 3771.22] the long form -[3771.22 --> 3772.60] or the short form. -[3774.64 --> 3775.12] Right, -[3775.16 --> 3775.84] and even that, -[3775.92 --> 3776.48] the long form, -[3776.54 --> 3776.96] was optional -[3776.96 --> 3777.66] for 10 years -[3777.66 --> 3778.66] prior to 2016. -[3779.94 --> 3781.04] In Palestine, -[3781.46 --> 3781.80] however, -[3783.06 --> 3784.42] everyone knows -[3784.42 --> 3786.00] that this is a power play. -[3786.80 --> 3787.96] Everyone knows -[3787.96 --> 3788.98] that the census -[3788.98 --> 3789.94] is a pretext -[3789.94 --> 3791.10] for raising taxes, -[3791.10 --> 3792.14] for bringing in -[3792.14 --> 3793.22] more Roman soldiers. -[3794.20 --> 3794.60] Here, -[3794.92 --> 3796.06] everyone realizes -[3796.06 --> 3797.58] that this is a chance -[3797.58 --> 3798.90] for the ruling elite -[3798.90 --> 3799.98] to increase -[3799.98 --> 3801.10] political oppression. -[3803.22 --> 3804.52] And in the fields -[3804.52 --> 3805.64] around Bethlehem -[3805.64 --> 3807.50] are these shepherds -[3807.50 --> 3809.50] watching their sheep -[3809.50 --> 3811.96] doing what hard-working, -[3812.12 --> 3812.78] rough-and-tumble, -[3812.94 --> 3813.40] outcast, -[3813.56 --> 3814.46] and forgotten men -[3814.46 --> 3815.42] have always done, -[3816.68 --> 3818.22] rumbling and complaining -[3818.22 --> 3819.58] about those in power. -[3821.10 --> 3821.60] Now, -[3821.66 --> 3822.12] to be fair, -[3822.62 --> 3824.14] we don't actually know -[3824.14 --> 3825.32] what they were talking about. -[3825.40 --> 3826.26] We don't actually know -[3826.26 --> 3827.34] the kinds of conversations -[3827.34 --> 3828.92] that they were having. -[3829.02 --> 3829.78] We can't know that. -[3829.84 --> 3831.82] The text doesn't tell us. -[3832.32 --> 3832.70] But, -[3832.82 --> 3834.08] we can know -[3834.08 --> 3834.60] something -[3834.60 --> 3835.44] about -[3835.44 --> 3836.32] these -[3836.32 --> 3837.12] kinds -[3837.12 --> 3837.76] of -[3837.76 --> 3838.60] people. -[3838.96 --> 3839.60] We can know -[3839.60 --> 3840.06] something -[3840.06 --> 3840.92] about -[3840.92 --> 3841.90] these men -[3841.90 --> 3842.98] because Luke, -[3843.10 --> 3843.94] in this text, -[3844.06 --> 3844.96] makes a point -[3844.96 --> 3846.08] of telling us -[3846.08 --> 3847.52] that they are shepherds. -[3847.52 --> 3850.26] If you have it -[3850.26 --> 3850.90] in front of you, -[3851.62 --> 3852.72] you can do a quick scan. -[3853.12 --> 3854.30] Four times -[3854.30 --> 3856.18] in these short verses, -[3857.06 --> 3858.40] Luke tells us -[3858.40 --> 3859.68] that they were shepherds. -[3859.74 --> 3860.68] He uses the words -[3860.68 --> 3861.16] shepherds. -[3861.24 --> 3862.20] It's true in English -[3862.20 --> 3863.34] and it's also true -[3863.34 --> 3864.62] in the Greek text, -[3864.70 --> 3865.98] in the original language. -[3866.54 --> 3866.80] Now, -[3866.86 --> 3867.34] I don't want to make -[3867.34 --> 3868.06] too much of this -[3868.06 --> 3869.30] or dwell here for too long -[3869.30 --> 3870.10] because I didn't really -[3870.10 --> 3871.00] think too much of it -[3871.00 --> 3871.88] until I compared it -[3871.88 --> 3872.76] to another text. -[3873.52 --> 3873.72] But, -[3873.80 --> 3874.86] a similar type -[3874.86 --> 3875.76] of story -[3875.76 --> 3876.44] and a similar -[3876.44 --> 3878.26] way of conveying -[3878.26 --> 3878.86] meaning -[3878.86 --> 3879.70] happens again -[3879.70 --> 3880.80] in Luke 9. -[3881.18 --> 3881.78] In Luke 9, -[3881.84 --> 3882.94] verse 40 to 56, -[3883.30 --> 3884.28] you have the story -[3884.28 --> 3885.64] of Jairus -[3885.64 --> 3887.02] who is the ruler -[3887.02 --> 3887.68] in the synagogue -[3887.68 --> 3888.48] and his daughter -[3888.48 --> 3889.36] who is really sick -[3889.36 --> 3890.48] and who eventually dies. -[3890.64 --> 3891.86] Jairus comes to Jesus -[3891.86 --> 3892.88] and pleads, -[3893.22 --> 3894.26] come back to my house, -[3894.62 --> 3895.36] heal my daughter. -[3896.66 --> 3896.86] Right? -[3896.90 --> 3898.02] When you read that story -[3898.02 --> 3899.24] in your English Bible, -[3899.66 --> 3900.66] four times -[3900.66 --> 3901.42] the name Jairus -[3901.42 --> 3901.76] is there. -[3902.76 --> 3903.40] But when you read it -[3903.40 --> 3903.90] in Greek, -[3904.62 --> 3905.76] the name's only there once. -[3908.02 --> 3909.02] What is repeated -[3909.02 --> 3910.24] is the pronoun -[3910.24 --> 3912.26] or the verbal inclusion -[3912.26 --> 3913.02] of the noun -[3913.02 --> 3914.00] which happens in Greek -[3914.00 --> 3915.56] or twice -[3915.56 --> 3916.48] his title -[3916.48 --> 3917.10] as ruler -[3917.10 --> 3917.76] of the synagogue. -[3918.86 --> 3918.98] Now, -[3919.02 --> 3919.68] let me be really clear -[3919.68 --> 3920.30] because Luke -[3920.30 --> 3921.30] is a good writer. -[3922.52 --> 3922.62] Right? -[3922.64 --> 3923.36] He is a doctor. -[3923.54 --> 3924.68] He is a trained professional -[3924.68 --> 3926.00] with academic credibility. -[3926.46 --> 3927.12] He understands -[3927.12 --> 3928.08] the importance -[3928.08 --> 3929.40] of what grammarians -[3929.40 --> 3930.82] call sentence variety. -[3931.30 --> 3931.46] Right? -[3931.50 --> 3932.62] Especially in the variety -[3932.62 --> 3933.80] of uses of subjects -[3933.80 --> 3934.26] or nouns -[3934.26 --> 3934.84] or pronouns. -[3935.54 --> 3936.70] And if he is repeating -[3936.70 --> 3937.50] one of them, -[3937.66 --> 3938.44] we can conclude -[3938.44 --> 3939.38] that it has to be -[3939.38 --> 3941.32] for an intentional purpose. -[3942.14 --> 3942.22] Right? -[3942.28 --> 3943.34] Luke doesn't want you -[3943.34 --> 3944.02] to miss -[3944.02 --> 3946.12] that these first witnesses -[3946.12 --> 3947.76] of Jesus coming, -[3947.90 --> 3948.74] of Emmanuel, -[3949.00 --> 3949.64] God with us, -[3949.88 --> 3951.22] are shepherds. -[3952.84 --> 3953.50] And just like -[3953.50 --> 3954.48] in this parallel story, -[3954.52 --> 3955.52] in the Jairus story, -[3955.60 --> 3956.34] where what matters -[3956.34 --> 3957.30] is that Jairus -[3957.30 --> 3957.96] is the leader -[3957.96 --> 3958.82] of the synagogue, -[3958.82 --> 3959.80] what matters -[3959.80 --> 3960.84] in this story -[3960.84 --> 3962.24] is that these men -[3962.24 --> 3964.24] are shepherds. -[3965.28 --> 3965.80] Now, -[3966.04 --> 3967.36] this is our focus -[3967.36 --> 3968.70] for this morning. -[3968.96 --> 3971.76] And perhaps you've heard -[3971.76 --> 3973.12] some of these sorts -[3973.12 --> 3974.28] of things in the past, -[3974.34 --> 3975.48] although I still think -[3975.48 --> 3976.44] for many of us, -[3976.46 --> 3976.60] right, -[3976.64 --> 3978.60] in the hallmarked version -[3978.60 --> 3980.54] of this story, -[3980.54 --> 3982.00] we think of shepherds -[3982.00 --> 3982.84] kind of like -[3982.84 --> 3985.22] that grandfatherly figure -[3985.22 --> 3985.94] who still works -[3985.94 --> 3986.54] on the farm. -[3987.40 --> 3987.66] Right? -[3987.70 --> 3988.98] He comes in from the field -[3988.98 --> 3990.30] ready to gather up -[3990.30 --> 3991.42] his grandkids -[3991.42 --> 3992.58] or to hold -[3992.58 --> 3994.06] the little newborn -[3994.06 --> 3995.48] great grandchild -[3995.48 --> 3996.52] that was born to him. -[3996.60 --> 3996.82] Sure, -[3996.92 --> 3998.16] his hands are a little dirty -[3998.16 --> 3999.08] and they're rough -[3999.08 --> 3999.80] because he's worked -[3999.80 --> 4000.64] for 60 years -[4000.64 --> 4001.76] in hard labor, -[4001.88 --> 4002.32] absolutely, -[4002.80 --> 4003.66] but his beard -[4003.66 --> 4005.06] is still perfectly manicured -[4005.06 --> 4007.02] and he doesn't smell -[4007.02 --> 4007.48] of sheep -[4007.48 --> 4009.08] or of manure. -[4009.36 --> 4009.56] Sorry. -[4011.80 --> 4011.96] Right? -[4012.02 --> 4012.94] In your nativity set -[4012.94 --> 4013.54] at home, -[4014.02 --> 4015.20] probably one of the shepherds -[4015.20 --> 4016.34] is carrying a little lamb. -[4016.54 --> 4018.06] Just to show how nice -[4018.06 --> 4019.02] and quaint -[4019.02 --> 4020.56] these people are. -[4020.68 --> 4021.66] But that's just not -[4021.66 --> 4022.52] how it was. -[4023.80 --> 4024.82] First of all, -[4025.04 --> 4025.16] right, -[4025.30 --> 4026.36] shepherds are men -[4026.36 --> 4027.00] of the land. -[4027.12 --> 4028.48] They live with their sheep -[4028.48 --> 4030.08] and they live -[4030.08 --> 4032.08] in their sheep's manure. -[4033.16 --> 4033.64] Right? -[4033.72 --> 4034.70] From grazing area -[4034.70 --> 4035.84] to grazing area. -[4036.64 --> 4037.22] In fact, -[4037.34 --> 4038.26] to the south -[4038.26 --> 4039.16] of Bethlehem, -[4039.86 --> 4040.52] you can stand -[4040.52 --> 4041.38] on the southern edge -[4041.38 --> 4042.44] of the city of Bethlehem, -[4042.48 --> 4043.00] the old city -[4043.00 --> 4043.66] and the new city, -[4043.72 --> 4044.52] and look to the south -[4044.52 --> 4045.58] and all you see -[4045.58 --> 4047.14] is the Judean wilderness. -[4048.96 --> 4049.58] You can stand -[4049.58 --> 4050.50] at the edge of the city -[4050.50 --> 4051.16] and what you see -[4051.16 --> 4051.92] is wild, -[4052.52 --> 4052.86] rocky, -[4053.36 --> 4054.60] untamed land -[4054.60 --> 4055.76] as far as the eye -[4055.76 --> 4056.28] can see. -[4056.40 --> 4058.04] It is not hospitable -[4058.04 --> 4059.10] and that's where -[4059.10 --> 4059.54] they lived. -[4060.30 --> 4061.32] That is the land -[4061.32 --> 4062.48] of shepherds -[4062.48 --> 4062.92] and it takes -[4062.92 --> 4063.80] a certain type -[4063.80 --> 4064.66] of man -[4064.66 --> 4065.96] to sleep on the ground -[4065.96 --> 4066.48] or person -[4066.48 --> 4067.58] to sleep on the ground, -[4067.68 --> 4069.02] to live in a cave, -[4069.14 --> 4070.00] to defend -[4070.00 --> 4070.70] from lions -[4070.70 --> 4071.28] and bears -[4071.28 --> 4072.10] and cheetahs -[4072.10 --> 4072.98] and crocodiles, -[4073.16 --> 4074.02] all of which -[4074.02 --> 4074.78] would have still -[4074.78 --> 4075.46] lived in the land -[4075.46 --> 4075.98] at this time. -[4076.86 --> 4076.98] Right? -[4077.04 --> 4077.40] Some of those -[4077.40 --> 4078.02] have been extinct -[4078.02 --> 4079.38] in Israel today -[4079.38 --> 4080.10] but they still -[4080.10 --> 4080.70] were there. -[4081.12 --> 4081.36] Then, -[4082.36 --> 4083.56] constant threats. -[4085.56 --> 4086.14] There's actually -[4086.14 --> 4088.36] a Jewish midrash -[4088.36 --> 4089.68] on Psalm 23. -[4090.60 --> 4090.72] Now, -[4090.82 --> 4091.48] a midrash -[4091.48 --> 4092.60] is a sort of -[4092.60 --> 4094.28] rabbinical commentary. -[4094.84 --> 4095.46] The rabbis, -[4095.58 --> 4095.98] the teachers -[4095.98 --> 4096.64] in Judaism -[4096.64 --> 4098.40] would talk about -[4098.40 --> 4099.74] the writings -[4099.74 --> 4100.44] of scripture, -[4100.78 --> 4101.36] the Tanakh, -[4101.36 --> 4101.92] which is their -[4101.92 --> 4102.58] word for scripture -[4102.58 --> 4104.46] and then record -[4104.46 --> 4105.50] their reflections -[4105.50 --> 4105.98] on it. -[4106.08 --> 4106.52] Those are called -[4106.52 --> 4107.10] midrashes. -[4108.02 --> 4108.86] There is a midrash -[4108.86 --> 4109.94] on Psalm 23 -[4109.94 --> 4112.58] that comes from -[4112.58 --> 4113.44] either before -[4113.44 --> 4114.08] the time of Jesus -[4114.08 --> 4114.96] or slightly at -[4114.96 --> 4115.62] or around -[4115.62 --> 4116.60] the time of Jesus -[4116.60 --> 4118.16] and this particular -[4118.16 --> 4119.34] midrash says, -[4120.38 --> 4121.54] in the whole world -[4121.54 --> 4122.34] you will find -[4122.34 --> 4123.30] no occupation -[4123.30 --> 4124.94] more despised -[4124.94 --> 4126.22] than that -[4126.22 --> 4126.72] of a shepherd. -[4128.80 --> 4129.62] That's what people -[4129.62 --> 4129.98] thought -[4129.98 --> 4131.66] about shepherds. -[4132.90 --> 4133.30] There's actually -[4133.30 --> 4134.28] a part of the -[4134.28 --> 4135.50] Babylonian Talmud. -[4135.98 --> 4136.40] Again, -[4136.80 --> 4137.78] if midrashes -[4137.78 --> 4138.66] are commentaries -[4138.66 --> 4139.48] on the Tanakh, -[4139.60 --> 4140.16] the Talmud -[4140.16 --> 4140.84] is sort of -[4140.84 --> 4141.48] commentaries -[4141.48 --> 4143.04] on the implications -[4143.04 --> 4144.16] of the Bible. -[4144.74 --> 4144.86] Right? -[4144.92 --> 4145.64] They're a collection -[4145.64 --> 4146.38] of teachings -[4146.38 --> 4147.20] from rabbis -[4147.20 --> 4148.38] and spiritual leaders -[4148.38 --> 4149.88] based on oral tradition, -[4150.14 --> 4151.42] based on the interpretation -[4151.42 --> 4152.20] of the Bible. -[4153.16 --> 4153.90] And the Talmud -[4153.90 --> 4155.18] was compiled, -[4156.18 --> 4157.20] started to be collected -[4157.20 --> 4158.38] after the exile, -[4158.86 --> 4159.90] really focused in -[4159.90 --> 4161.08] around 200 B.C. -[4161.08 --> 4162.22] and then all the way -[4162.22 --> 4163.06] through into -[4163.06 --> 4164.16] like the 12th -[4164.16 --> 4165.00] or the 4th -[4165.00 --> 4166.66] or 5th century A.D. -[4167.22 --> 4168.20] And so you get -[4168.20 --> 4169.80] this fairly accurate -[4169.80 --> 4171.04] picture of what -[4171.04 --> 4172.18] the Jewish people -[4172.18 --> 4173.04] of the time -[4173.04 --> 4174.04] thought -[4174.04 --> 4175.50] by reading the Talmud. -[4175.50 --> 4179.76] The Talmud says -[4179.76 --> 4180.92] that there are -[4180.92 --> 4182.12] two different groups -[4182.12 --> 4182.76] of people -[4182.76 --> 4184.22] that Jewish citizens -[4184.22 --> 4185.42] don't have -[4185.42 --> 4186.24] to help. -[4188.22 --> 4188.70] Heathens, -[4189.28 --> 4190.12] people who don't -[4190.12 --> 4190.76] believe in God, -[4192.40 --> 4193.26] and you've guessed it, -[4193.74 --> 4194.18] shepherds. -[4195.88 --> 4196.50] Shepherds -[4196.50 --> 4198.00] are in the same category -[4198.00 --> 4198.88] of people -[4198.88 --> 4199.80] as unbelievers. -[4200.62 --> 4200.74] Right? -[4200.78 --> 4201.78] There's no further -[4201.78 --> 4202.48] outside -[4202.48 --> 4204.04] in the Jewish world. -[4204.04 --> 4205.94] In fact, -[4206.10 --> 4207.34] the Talmud also says -[4207.34 --> 4208.54] because of this -[4208.54 --> 4209.34] general idea -[4209.34 --> 4210.54] that shepherds -[4210.54 --> 4211.26] are liars -[4211.26 --> 4212.24] and that regularly -[4212.24 --> 4213.30] they steal -[4213.30 --> 4214.96] and so shepherds -[4214.96 --> 4216.58] are unfit -[4216.58 --> 4217.62] as witnesses -[4217.62 --> 4219.34] and are unable -[4219.34 --> 4221.04] to give trusted oaths. -[4222.20 --> 4223.52] I want you to hear that, -[4224.00 --> 4224.96] especially that last one. -[4226.68 --> 4226.84] Right? -[4227.34 --> 4228.16] Who is it -[4228.16 --> 4230.20] that God calls -[4230.20 --> 4231.46] to be the first -[4231.46 --> 4232.24] witnesses -[4232.24 --> 4233.10] of the birth -[4233.10 --> 4233.62] of Jesus? -[4234.04 --> 4236.16] a group -[4236.16 --> 4236.80] of people -[4236.80 --> 4238.08] who are unfit -[4238.08 --> 4239.06] as witnesses -[4239.06 --> 4240.38] and can't even -[4240.38 --> 4241.58] give legal testimony -[4241.58 --> 4242.20] in court. -[4242.82 --> 4244.36] The first witnesses -[4244.36 --> 4245.88] of the incarnation -[4245.88 --> 4246.52] of God, -[4246.62 --> 4247.42] the first witnesses -[4247.42 --> 4248.46] of Emmanuel, -[4248.88 --> 4250.00] the first witnesses -[4250.00 --> 4250.52] of Advent -[4250.52 --> 4251.22] and Christmas -[4251.22 --> 4253.20] are the ones -[4253.20 --> 4253.86] who could never -[4253.86 --> 4254.46] be called -[4254.46 --> 4255.14] as witnesses. -[4258.88 --> 4259.78] In your mind, -[4259.86 --> 4260.34] maybe you've already -[4260.34 --> 4261.06] made this connection. -[4261.90 --> 4262.26] But again, -[4262.40 --> 4263.00] sticking with Luke, -[4263.00 --> 4263.88] but now to the end -[4263.88 --> 4265.04] of the book, -[4265.12 --> 4266.42] in Luke chapter 24, -[4267.26 --> 4268.60] who are the first witnesses -[4268.60 --> 4269.42] of the resurrection? -[4271.64 --> 4272.78] It's a group of women -[4272.78 --> 4274.78] who went to see Jesus. -[4275.92 --> 4277.38] Women who also -[4277.38 --> 4278.98] could not be called upon -[4278.98 --> 4280.20] as legal witnesses. -[4280.74 --> 4282.00] Women whose testimony -[4282.00 --> 4284.06] was also inadmissible -[4284.06 --> 4286.58] in the religio-political court -[4286.58 --> 4287.36] of the day. -[4287.36 --> 4288.96] Again, -[4289.38 --> 4290.48] Luke is a good writer -[4290.48 --> 4291.56] and he's making -[4291.56 --> 4292.20] this point -[4292.20 --> 4293.40] very specifically, -[4293.78 --> 4294.86] very intentionally. -[4296.36 --> 4297.20] Luke 24, -[4297.92 --> 4298.76] verse 10 and 11 -[4298.76 --> 4299.10] says, -[4299.62 --> 4300.24] It was Mary, -[4300.38 --> 4300.94] Magdalene, -[4301.06 --> 4301.40] Joanna, -[4301.64 --> 4301.86] Mary, -[4301.96 --> 4302.76] the mother of James, -[4302.82 --> 4303.50] and the other women -[4303.50 --> 4303.96] with them -[4303.96 --> 4304.68] who told this -[4304.68 --> 4305.46] to the disciples. -[4305.94 --> 4306.46] But they, -[4306.54 --> 4307.36] that is the disciples, -[4307.72 --> 4308.74] did not believe -[4308.74 --> 4309.24] the women -[4309.24 --> 4310.32] because their words -[4310.32 --> 4311.42] seemed to them -[4311.42 --> 4312.44] like nonsense. -[4312.44 --> 4315.24] The disciples -[4315.24 --> 4316.24] were a man of their day. -[4318.34 --> 4318.82] The women -[4318.82 --> 4320.10] also -[4320.10 --> 4321.96] are unlikely witnesses. -[4322.42 --> 4323.40] The gospel story -[4323.40 --> 4323.90] of Jesus -[4323.90 --> 4325.30] is bookended -[4325.30 --> 4327.28] by impossible witnesses. -[4327.76 --> 4328.84] The message of Jesus -[4328.84 --> 4329.82] is first given -[4329.82 --> 4331.24] to the most unlikely -[4331.24 --> 4332.36] of characters. -[4333.30 --> 4334.82] People who the world -[4334.82 --> 4336.50] would never listen to -[4336.50 --> 4337.98] are given the message, -[4338.14 --> 4338.98] Glory to God -[4338.98 --> 4339.90] in the highest heaven -[4339.90 --> 4340.50] and on earth, -[4340.62 --> 4341.38] peace to those -[4341.38 --> 4341.86] on whom -[4341.86 --> 4343.74] his favor rests. -[4345.22 --> 4346.26] And now, -[4346.62 --> 4347.04] today, -[4347.78 --> 4350.14] in our hallmark -[4350.14 --> 4351.42] Christmas stories, -[4351.80 --> 4351.94] right, -[4352.00 --> 4353.40] by turning the shepherds -[4353.40 --> 4354.34] into something -[4354.34 --> 4355.30] they are not, -[4355.54 --> 4356.62] we run the risk -[4356.62 --> 4357.78] of turning Christmas -[4357.78 --> 4358.90] into something -[4358.90 --> 4359.68] it is not. -[4359.86 --> 4360.70] We run the risk -[4360.70 --> 4361.84] of creating a gospel -[4361.84 --> 4362.86] which is no gospel -[4362.86 --> 4363.76] at all, right? -[4363.80 --> 4364.58] By softening -[4364.58 --> 4365.48] the offense -[4365.48 --> 4367.46] of God using shepherds, -[4367.46 --> 4369.04] we make the messenger -[4369.04 --> 4370.02] more important -[4370.02 --> 4370.84] than the message. -[4371.86 --> 4374.14] And the message -[4374.14 --> 4375.84] is for all. -[4376.64 --> 4378.54] By taking the scandal -[4378.54 --> 4379.52] out of God -[4379.52 --> 4380.74] using shepherds, -[4380.86 --> 4382.22] we are in fact -[4382.22 --> 4383.66] making God smaller. -[4383.82 --> 4384.42] We are in fact -[4384.42 --> 4385.08] trying to put him -[4385.08 --> 4385.62] in a box -[4385.62 --> 4386.56] that we can comprehend -[4386.56 --> 4387.46] and that we are -[4387.46 --> 4388.22] comfortable with. -[4388.22 --> 4389.06] We are trying -[4389.06 --> 4389.74] to determine -[4389.74 --> 4391.02] who this message -[4391.02 --> 4391.74] is for -[4391.74 --> 4392.94] and who can -[4392.94 --> 4393.76] properly speak -[4393.76 --> 4395.04] this message -[4395.04 --> 4396.64] in the world. -[4399.08 --> 4399.70] Look, -[4400.50 --> 4404.86] this may be -[4404.86 --> 4405.94] controversial, -[4407.00 --> 4407.80] this may push -[4407.80 --> 4408.58] some of your buttons, -[4409.32 --> 4410.54] but I want to suggest -[4410.54 --> 4410.98] to you -[4410.98 --> 4413.28] that part of the reason -[4413.28 --> 4415.22] why so many of you -[4415.22 --> 4416.12] find it hard -[4416.12 --> 4417.38] to talk about Jesus, -[4418.46 --> 4419.42] why so many of you -[4419.42 --> 4420.22] find it hard -[4420.22 --> 4421.06] to tell your -[4421.06 --> 4422.00] unbelieving friends -[4422.00 --> 4422.62] the truth -[4422.62 --> 4423.52] of the gospel -[4423.52 --> 4424.36] is because you -[4424.36 --> 4425.00] have settled -[4425.00 --> 4426.32] for a hallmarked -[4426.32 --> 4426.86] Christianity. -[4428.40 --> 4429.38] You have settled -[4429.38 --> 4430.94] for a small Christ. -[4432.44 --> 4434.16] The only reason -[4434.16 --> 4435.30] anyone can be -[4435.30 --> 4435.90] indifferent -[4435.90 --> 4436.90] about Jesus -[4436.90 --> 4438.82] is if they're not -[4438.82 --> 4439.38] looking at the -[4439.38 --> 4440.14] Jesus of the Bible. -[4440.14 --> 4444.48] If Jesus is -[4444.48 --> 4445.18] who he says -[4445.18 --> 4445.68] he is, -[4446.26 --> 4447.34] if Jesus is -[4447.34 --> 4447.96] who the Bible -[4447.96 --> 4449.00] reveals him to be, -[4449.24 --> 4450.54] you cannot have -[4450.54 --> 4451.22] a tepid -[4451.22 --> 4452.28] or lukewarm -[4452.28 --> 4453.28] response to him. -[4453.48 --> 4454.54] You cannot be -[4454.54 --> 4455.12] indifferent. -[4457.58 --> 4458.36] John Stott -[4458.36 --> 4459.74] in his book -[4459.74 --> 4460.84] Basic Christianity -[4460.84 --> 4461.60] puts it this way. -[4461.68 --> 4462.08] He says, -[4462.90 --> 4464.54] if you read -[4464.54 --> 4465.16] the Bible, -[4465.54 --> 4466.10] you'll see -[4466.10 --> 4466.82] that nobody -[4466.82 --> 4467.56] who ever met -[4467.56 --> 4467.90] Jesus -[4467.90 --> 4468.56] had a moderate -[4468.56 --> 4469.42] reaction to him. -[4470.14 --> 4471.24] There are only -[4471.24 --> 4472.16] three reactions -[4472.16 --> 4472.74] to Jesus. -[4473.44 --> 4474.10] They either -[4474.10 --> 4474.70] hated him -[4474.70 --> 4475.10] and wanted -[4475.10 --> 4475.72] to kill him. -[4476.38 --> 4477.36] They were afraid -[4477.36 --> 4477.72] of him -[4477.72 --> 4478.02] and wanted -[4478.02 --> 4478.58] to run away -[4478.58 --> 4479.02] from him. -[4479.42 --> 4480.32] Or they were -[4480.32 --> 4481.42] absolutely smitten -[4481.42 --> 4481.88] with him -[4481.88 --> 4482.56] and they tried -[4482.56 --> 4483.00] to give -[4483.00 --> 4483.94] their whole lives -[4483.94 --> 4484.80] to him. -[4487.10 --> 4487.98] But so many -[4487.98 --> 4488.44] of you -[4488.44 --> 4489.06] are willing -[4489.06 --> 4489.92] to just accept -[4489.92 --> 4490.60] meh -[4490.60 --> 4491.90] when it comes -[4491.90 --> 4492.48] to Jesus. -[4493.84 --> 4495.02] Stop accepting -[4495.02 --> 4495.56] meh. -[4495.82 --> 4496.54] Stop accepting -[4496.54 --> 4497.10] half measure. -[4497.24 --> 4497.90] Stop accepting -[4497.90 --> 4498.48] indifference -[4498.48 --> 4499.58] as the normal -[4499.58 --> 4500.22] experience -[4500.22 --> 4500.66] of your -[4500.66 --> 4501.46] relationship -[4501.46 --> 4502.06] to God. -[4502.64 --> 4503.48] Look at what -[4503.48 --> 4504.48] Jesus himself -[4504.48 --> 4505.34] had to go -[4505.34 --> 4505.92] through in order -[4505.92 --> 4506.86] to get to you. -[4507.78 --> 4508.62] The eternal -[4508.62 --> 4509.66] second person -[4509.66 --> 4510.40] of the Trinity, -[4510.72 --> 4511.66] God of God -[4511.66 --> 4512.52] and true God -[4512.52 --> 4513.38] of true God, -[4513.96 --> 4515.12] emptied himself -[4515.12 --> 4516.04] and took -[4516.04 --> 4517.16] on flesh. -[4518.94 --> 4519.50] Emmanuel, -[4519.96 --> 4521.30] God with us, -[4521.54 --> 4522.80] he emptied himself. -[4523.06 --> 4524.34] He left the realms -[4524.34 --> 4524.94] of glory -[4524.94 --> 4525.60] and the presence -[4525.60 --> 4526.12] of Father -[4526.12 --> 4527.16] and the eternal -[4527.16 --> 4528.02] loving fellowship -[4528.02 --> 4528.70] that he and the -[4528.70 --> 4529.56] Father shared -[4529.56 --> 4530.38] with the Holy Spirit. -[4530.66 --> 4531.86] He emptied himself -[4531.86 --> 4532.82] and became -[4532.82 --> 4533.96] as a slave -[4533.96 --> 4535.32] taking on -[4535.32 --> 4536.10] flesh. -[4536.26 --> 4536.84] Emmanuel, -[4537.46 --> 4538.84] God with us. -[4539.70 --> 4540.92] God with us, -[4541.16 --> 4542.46] but nobody -[4542.46 --> 4543.48] recognized him. -[4544.28 --> 4545.36] God with us, -[4545.44 --> 4545.96] but we hung -[4545.96 --> 4546.82] him on a cross. -[4547.24 --> 4548.08] God with us, -[4548.16 --> 4548.86] and we killed -[4548.86 --> 4549.10] him. -[4550.40 --> 4551.62] He did that, -[4551.62 --> 4553.14] all of that, -[4553.42 --> 4554.08] willingly -[4554.08 --> 4557.14] to save -[4557.14 --> 4558.20] for himself -[4558.20 --> 4559.16] a bride. -[4560.38 --> 4561.08] And now, -[4561.24 --> 4561.88] by grace -[4561.88 --> 4562.56] through faith, -[4562.62 --> 4563.28] if you believe, -[4563.54 --> 4564.30] you are -[4564.30 --> 4565.32] that bride. -[4566.08 --> 4566.68] Look at what -[4566.68 --> 4567.36] he did, -[4567.60 --> 4567.94] look at what -[4567.94 --> 4568.74] he endured, -[4569.02 --> 4569.36] look at what -[4569.36 --> 4570.22] he went through, -[4570.42 --> 4571.46] what he left behind, -[4571.70 --> 4572.48] the pain that he -[4572.48 --> 4573.36] bore in order -[4573.36 --> 4574.50] to get to you. -[4576.40 --> 4577.12] And you're -[4577.12 --> 4577.82] going to sit here -[4577.82 --> 4578.30] and settle -[4578.30 --> 4578.96] for meh, -[4578.96 --> 4581.90] for indifference. -[4583.68 --> 4584.48] What are you -[4584.48 --> 4585.28] doing to get -[4585.28 --> 4585.74] to him? -[4588.52 --> 4589.16] For some of you, -[4589.36 --> 4590.62] coming to church -[4590.62 --> 4591.06] either here -[4591.06 --> 4591.68] or participating -[4591.68 --> 4592.14] online, -[4592.46 --> 4593.32] once a week -[4593.32 --> 4593.98] is too much -[4593.98 --> 4594.46] to ask. -[4594.54 --> 4594.76] Really? -[4596.50 --> 4597.10] Getting up -[4597.10 --> 4597.54] on time -[4597.54 --> 4598.04] to do -[4598.04 --> 4599.10] personal devotions -[4599.10 --> 4599.82] is too hard. -[4599.90 --> 4600.40] It's too much -[4600.40 --> 4600.82] to ask. -[4600.90 --> 4601.12] Really? -[4602.72 --> 4603.38] Reading your -[4603.38 --> 4604.16] Bible is too -[4604.16 --> 4604.70] much work. -[4605.60 --> 4606.14] The very -[4606.14 --> 4606.98] place where -[4606.98 --> 4607.56] you are -[4607.56 --> 4608.18] promised -[4608.18 --> 4608.56] that you -[4608.56 --> 4609.04] will hear -[4609.04 --> 4609.56] the voice -[4609.56 --> 4610.04] of Jesus -[4610.04 --> 4610.74] without fail -[4610.74 --> 4611.56] every single -[4611.56 --> 4611.84] time. -[4612.00 --> 4612.56] Right here, -[4612.78 --> 4613.34] he's waiting -[4613.34 --> 4613.88] for you. -[4616.04 --> 4616.66] And you -[4616.66 --> 4617.18] can't get up -[4617.18 --> 4617.64] half an hour -[4617.64 --> 4618.12] earlier to -[4618.12 --> 4618.38] make it -[4618.38 --> 4618.68] happen. -[4619.48 --> 4620.12] That's too -[4620.12 --> 4620.38] hard. -[4622.92 --> 4623.38] You're too -[4623.38 --> 4624.02] scared to -[4624.02 --> 4624.74] pull your -[4624.74 --> 4625.26] Bible out -[4625.26 --> 4626.12] at lunch -[4626.12 --> 4626.80] in the -[4626.80 --> 4627.62] lunchroom -[4627.62 --> 4629.12] because of -[4629.12 --> 4629.74] what someone -[4629.74 --> 4630.34] beside you -[4630.34 --> 4630.76] might say. -[4632.40 --> 4633.00] You're too -[4633.00 --> 4633.52] worried about -[4633.52 --> 4633.92] the opinion -[4633.92 --> 4634.26] of this -[4634.26 --> 4634.82] person to -[4634.82 --> 4636.06] inject Jesus -[4636.06 --> 4637.30] into a -[4637.30 --> 4637.80] conversation. -[4638.18 --> 4639.58] look at -[4639.58 --> 4640.06] what Jesus -[4640.06 --> 4640.68] did to -[4640.68 --> 4641.08] get to -[4641.08 --> 4641.48] you. -[4642.58 --> 4642.90] What are -[4642.90 --> 4643.50] you doing -[4643.50 --> 4643.86] to get -[4643.86 --> 4644.34] close to -[4644.34 --> 4644.58] him? -[4646.72 --> 4647.44] Tim Keller -[4647.44 --> 4648.52] summarizes -[4648.52 --> 4649.66] John Stott. -[4649.76 --> 4649.96] He is -[4649.96 --> 4650.68] reflecting on -[4650.68 --> 4651.38] John Stott, -[4651.44 --> 4651.78] that quote -[4651.78 --> 4652.04] that I -[4652.04 --> 4652.46] mentioned -[4652.46 --> 4652.86] earlier. -[4653.70 --> 4654.06] And he -[4654.06 --> 4655.00] narrows it -[4655.00 --> 4655.32] down even -[4655.32 --> 4655.48] more. -[4655.54 --> 4655.86] He has an -[4655.86 --> 4656.28] even more -[4656.28 --> 4657.04] convicting -[4657.04 --> 4657.36] way. -[4657.46 --> 4657.74] He says, -[4657.84 --> 4658.16] the only -[4658.16 --> 4658.58] way to -[4658.58 --> 4659.14] respond to -[4659.14 --> 4659.58] the gospel, -[4659.72 --> 4660.02] to meeting -[4660.02 --> 4660.38] Jesus, -[4660.58 --> 4660.82] is -[4660.82 --> 4661.78] extremely. -[4663.04 --> 4663.24] Right? -[4663.30 --> 4663.94] One way or -[4663.94 --> 4664.34] the other. -[4664.56 --> 4665.00] It'll be -[4665.00 --> 4665.38] extreme. -[4665.38 --> 4666.66] We'll be -[4666.66 --> 4666.92] shouting, -[4667.04 --> 4667.78] crucify him -[4667.78 --> 4668.16] like the -[4668.16 --> 4668.52] crowds, -[4668.64 --> 4668.98] or we -[4668.98 --> 4669.30] will be -[4669.30 --> 4669.58] shouting, -[4669.72 --> 4670.16] my Lord -[4670.16 --> 4670.78] and my -[4670.78 --> 4671.20] God, -[4671.28 --> 4672.12] like Thomas -[4672.12 --> 4672.50] when he -[4672.50 --> 4673.22] touched his -[4673.22 --> 4674.16] hands and -[4674.16 --> 4675.20] his thighs. -[4676.04 --> 4676.40] Look at -[4676.40 --> 4677.08] the shepherds. -[4678.56 --> 4679.02] Look at the -[4679.02 --> 4679.54] shepherds. -[4680.94 --> 4681.90] Verse 17. -[4682.06 --> 4682.50] When they -[4682.50 --> 4683.16] had seen -[4683.16 --> 4683.46] him, -[4683.58 --> 4684.14] they spread -[4684.14 --> 4685.08] word concerning -[4685.08 --> 4685.78] what had -[4685.78 --> 4686.42] been told -[4686.42 --> 4687.24] them about -[4687.24 --> 4688.44] this child. -[4688.56 --> 4689.14] And all -[4689.14 --> 4689.66] who heard -[4689.66 --> 4689.98] it were -[4689.98 --> 4690.78] amazed at -[4690.78 --> 4691.16] what the -[4691.16 --> 4691.66] shepherds -[4691.66 --> 4692.48] had said -[4692.48 --> 4692.86] to them. -[4692.86 --> 4694.52] The most -[4694.52 --> 4695.92] unlikely of -[4695.92 --> 4696.36] witnesses -[4696.36 --> 4697.96] couldn't -[4697.96 --> 4699.54] help but -[4699.54 --> 4700.00] witness. -[4702.24 --> 4703.04] The -[4703.04 --> 4703.84] impossible -[4703.84 --> 4705.54] speaker of -[4705.54 --> 4706.24] truth and -[4706.24 --> 4706.88] testimony -[4706.88 --> 4707.52] couldn't -[4707.52 --> 4708.20] help but -[4708.20 --> 4709.04] speak truth -[4709.04 --> 4709.60] and live -[4709.60 --> 4710.52] a testimony. -[4714.36 --> 4715.42] No matter -[4715.42 --> 4715.94] who you -[4715.94 --> 4716.34] are, -[4717.34 --> 4719.44] if you -[4719.44 --> 4721.62] are a -[4721.62 --> 4722.52] disciple of -[4722.52 --> 4722.86] Jesus, -[4722.86 --> 4723.48] if you -[4723.48 --> 4724.16] have met -[4724.16 --> 4724.94] him and -[4724.94 --> 4725.62] been met -[4725.62 --> 4727.04] by him, -[4728.04 --> 4729.86] you can't -[4729.86 --> 4732.00] help but -[4732.00 --> 4732.62] speak his -[4732.62 --> 4732.96] name, -[4733.96 --> 4734.86] proclaim his -[4734.86 --> 4735.96] gospel, -[4736.40 --> 4737.30] tell his -[4737.30 --> 4738.24] story. -[4739.86 --> 4740.76] And then -[4740.76 --> 4741.74] look at the -[4741.74 --> 4742.20] shepherds. -[4742.30 --> 4742.82] The shepherds -[4742.82 --> 4743.36] returned, -[4743.52 --> 4744.04] verse 20, -[4744.46 --> 4745.56] glorifying and -[4745.56 --> 4746.46] praising God -[4746.46 --> 4747.40] for all the -[4747.40 --> 4747.96] things that -[4747.96 --> 4748.68] they had heard -[4748.68 --> 4749.40] and seen, -[4750.00 --> 4750.40] which were -[4750.40 --> 4751.06] just as -[4751.06 --> 4752.06] they had -[4752.06 --> 4752.52] been told. -[4755.40 --> 4756.08] Truly -[4756.08 --> 4756.82] witnessing -[4756.82 --> 4760.36] always leads -[4760.36 --> 4761.78] to worship. -[4763.84 --> 4764.82] So stop -[4764.82 --> 4765.74] settling for -[4765.74 --> 4766.48] less than -[4766.48 --> 4766.96] the real -[4766.96 --> 4767.40] thing. -[4768.32 --> 4768.80] Don't let -[4768.80 --> 4769.48] indifference -[4769.48 --> 4770.24] define your -[4770.24 --> 4770.64] faith. -[4771.04 --> 4771.40] Don't let -[4771.40 --> 4771.96] a mere -[4771.96 --> 4772.90] sentimentality -[4772.90 --> 4773.62] define your -[4773.62 --> 4774.48] Advent and -[4774.48 --> 4775.00] your Christmas. -[4775.36 --> 4775.94] If you are -[4775.94 --> 4776.72] in the depths -[4776.72 --> 4777.54] this week, -[4777.86 --> 4778.74] cry out to -[4778.74 --> 4779.34] your Savior. -[4779.66 --> 4780.04] If you are -[4780.04 --> 4780.30] at the -[4780.30 --> 4781.12] heights this -[4781.12 --> 4781.34] week, -[4781.52 --> 4782.40] worship the -[4782.40 --> 4783.42] real Jesus. -[4783.74 --> 4784.58] Stop settling -[4784.58 --> 4785.20] for a mere -[4785.20 --> 4786.16] sentimentality but -[4786.16 --> 4787.76] long, long and -[4787.76 --> 4788.86] journey towards -[4788.86 --> 4789.88] and come to -[4789.88 --> 4790.50] God in his -[4790.50 --> 4790.78] word. -[4791.16 --> 4791.78] Come to God -[4791.78 --> 4792.56] in prayer and -[4792.56 --> 4793.44] in worship and -[4793.44 --> 4793.96] in devotion. -[4794.68 --> 4795.90] Long for a -[4795.90 --> 4797.20] deep affection -[4797.20 --> 4798.72] to him. -[4798.72 --> 4801.02] and then -[4801.02 --> 4803.18] whether you -[4803.18 --> 4803.78] are on the -[4803.78 --> 4804.92] mountaintops or -[4804.92 --> 4805.94] in the coffee -[4805.94 --> 4806.70] shops, whether -[4806.70 --> 4807.20] you are at -[4807.20 --> 4808.00] work or at -[4808.00 --> 4808.52] school, whether -[4808.52 --> 4808.98] you are around -[4808.98 --> 4809.74] the dining -[4809.74 --> 4810.66] table or the -[4810.66 --> 4811.38] poker table, -[4811.38 --> 4812.44] be the -[4812.44 --> 4813.70] unlikely witness. -[4816.20 --> 4817.06] In the -[4817.06 --> 4817.70] hallmarked -[4817.70 --> 4819.68] story of the -[4819.68 --> 4822.76] shepherds, or -[4822.76 --> 4823.70] the unhallmarked -[4823.70 --> 4824.40] story of the -[4824.40 --> 4825.26] shepherds, tells -[4825.26 --> 4826.22] us that -[4826.22 --> 4828.98] everyone, however -[4828.98 --> 4829.96] unlikely it may -[4829.96 --> 4831.34] seem, is a -[4831.34 --> 4832.56] witness for the -[4832.56 --> 4832.94] gospel. -[4834.22 --> 4834.98] And like the -[4834.98 --> 4835.74] shepherds at the -[4835.74 --> 4836.42] beginning of the -[4836.42 --> 4837.26] story, like the -[4837.26 --> 4838.18] women at the -[4838.18 --> 4838.76] end of the -[4838.76 --> 4839.48] story, it is -[4839.48 --> 4840.68] now your turn -[4840.68 --> 4842.82] to tell this -[4842.82 --> 4844.96] Christmas story. -[4846.24 --> 4846.88] Go. -[4848.16 --> 4849.08] Tell the -[4849.08 --> 4850.98] true story of -[4850.98 --> 4851.68] the real -[4851.68 --> 4853.28] Jesus this -[4853.28 --> 4854.32] Christmas. -[4855.02 --> 4855.32] Amen? -[4856.32 --> 4856.88] Amen. -[4857.22 --> 4857.60] Let's pray -[4857.60 --> 4857.90] together. -[4869.48 --> 4870.46] Heavenly Father, -[4871.24 --> 4873.08] we gather -[4873.08 --> 4876.52] now sent -[4876.52 --> 4877.86] into the -[4877.86 --> 4878.76] world as -[4878.76 --> 4879.28] your -[4879.28 --> 4880.44] witnesses. -[4881.68 --> 4882.64] captivate -[4882.64 --> 4884.24] our hearts, -[4884.52 --> 4885.50] stir our -[4885.50 --> 4886.64] affections, -[4886.80 --> 4887.82] overwhelm our -[4887.82 --> 4888.90] imaginations for -[4888.90 --> 4889.62] the possibilities -[4889.62 --> 4890.64] of you at -[4890.64 --> 4891.34] work in the -[4891.34 --> 4892.08] world through -[4892.08 --> 4893.16] each one of -[4893.16 --> 4894.18] us, unlikely -[4894.18 --> 4895.40] witnesses though -[4895.40 --> 4896.84] we may be. -[4902.40 --> 4903.26] In a -[4903.26 --> 4905.36] world that -[4905.36 --> 4905.62] would have -[4905.62 --> 4906.58] dismissed the -[4906.58 --> 4909.02] shepherds, in -[4909.02 --> 4909.52] a world that -[4909.52 --> 4909.90] would have had -[4909.90 --> 4911.16] animosity for -[4911.16 --> 4911.44] them, -[4911.68 --> 4912.78] in a world -[4912.78 --> 4913.42] that would not -[4913.42 --> 4914.28] believe what -[4914.28 --> 4915.62] they say, they -[4915.62 --> 4916.72] couldn't help -[4916.72 --> 4918.94] but witness and -[4918.94 --> 4919.32] worship. -[4920.96 --> 4921.84] And so, Lord -[4921.84 --> 4922.66] God, may we -[4922.66 --> 4924.02] too be the -[4924.02 --> 4924.72] same having -[4924.72 --> 4926.12] met you here. -[4926.96 --> 4927.70] May we too be -[4927.70 --> 4928.44] the same having -[4928.44 --> 4929.50] met you in our -[4929.50 --> 4930.42] worship each -[4930.42 --> 4931.62] week, having -[4931.62 --> 4932.84] met you in our -[4932.84 --> 4934.22] devotion, in our -[4934.22 --> 4934.72] study. -[4935.12 --> 4936.56] May we too -[4936.56 --> 4939.18] witness and -[4939.18 --> 4939.54] worship. -[4939.54 --> 4939.68] worship. -[4941.44 --> 4942.20] May we too -[4942.20 --> 4944.72] proclaim glory -[4944.72 --> 4945.72] to God in the -[4945.72 --> 4946.46] highest heaven -[4946.46 --> 4947.44] and on earth, -[4947.82 --> 4948.76] peace to those -[4948.76 --> 4949.82] on whom his -[4949.82 --> 4951.40] favor rests. -[4951.40 --> 4953.58] Amen. -[4953.58 --> 4966.00] Lord of the depths, I -[4966.00 --> 4970.90] cried to you on high, the -[4970.90 --> 4972.74] Lord of the depths, I cry to you on high. -[4972.74 --> 4987.02] Lord of the depths, I cry to you on high, Lord, here I call. -[4987.02 --> 4998.68] Lend down your ear and listen to my sigh for giving all. -[4998.68 --> 5014.32] If you should mark our sins to send this hand, but grace and mercy dwell at your right hand. -[5014.32 --> 5015.32] Lord of the depths, I cry to you on high, the way to hear. -[5015.32 --> 5026.74] I wait for God, my trust is holy word, he hears my sighs. -[5026.74 --> 5034.20] My soul still waits and looks unto the Lord. -[5034.74 --> 5038.48] My prayers arise. -[5039.26 --> 5046.26] I look for Him to drive away my mind. -[5046.26 --> 5054.38] Yes, more than those who watch for morning night. -[5054.38 --> 5063.40] Hope in the Lord, unfailing is His love. -[5063.84 --> 5067.46] In Him confide. -[5068.46 --> 5075.28] Mercy and hope, redemption from above. -[5075.28 --> 5079.34] He does provide. -[5079.34 --> 5087.14] From sin and evil, mighty though they seem. -[5087.64 --> 5094.54] His arm almighty will His saints redeem. -[5094.54 --> 5114.22] As you go this week, you go as witnesses of our God. -[5114.22 --> 5122.60] God Himself goes with you so that you might boldly proclaim His gospel truth to the world. -[5123.50 --> 5126.12] Receive God's blessing as you go. -[5129.18 --> 5132.32] May God go before you to lead you. -[5132.92 --> 5135.70] May God go behind you to guard you. -[5136.08 --> 5138.66] May God go beneath you to support you. -[5138.66 --> 5141.56] And may God go beside you to befriend you. -[5141.86 --> 5143.98] Do not be afraid. -[5144.88 --> 5146.94] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5147.04 --> 5148.54] Do not be afraid. -[5148.92 --> 5155.70] But go in peace to love, serve, and boldly proclaim the Lord. -[5156.76 --> 5157.28] Amen. -[5157.28 --> 5157.42] Amen. -[5168.66 --> 5172.34] And Lord Jesus Christ. -[5174.58 --> 5175.98] Amen. -[5175.98 --> 5183.36] The word of God has become flesh -[5183.36 --> 5189.70] Unto us a child is born -[5189.70 --> 5195.98] The Savior of a broken world -[5195.98 --> 5201.98] Hear the angel voices -[5201.98 --> 5208.98] Sing, come, let us adore you -[5209.60 --> 5218.98] Peace has come for our King is with us -[5218.98 --> 5228.34] Fully God and fully man -[5228.34 --> 5234.78] He comes for all with open hands -[5234.78 --> 5240.34] He rules with love on David's throne -[5241.16 --> 5247.34] All praise belongs to Christ alone -[5247.34 --> 5254.10] Hear the angel voices -[5254.10 --> 5260.34] Sing, come, let us adore you -[5261.16 --> 5268.78] Peace has come for our King is with us -[5268.78 --> 5285.64] Holy, holy, holy -[5285.64 --> 5291.78] Jesus, we adore thee -[5291.78 --> 5298.78] Peace has come for our King is with us -[5298.78 --> 5303.78] Come, let us adore him -[5303.78 --> 5309.78] Oh, come, let us adore him -[5309.78 --> 5316.78] O come, let us adore him -[5316.78 --> 5321.78] Christ alone -[5321.78 --> 5331.78] O come, let us adore him -[5331.78 --> 5337.78] O come, let us adore him -[5337.78 --> 5344.78] O come, let us adore him -[5344.78 --> 5351.78] Hear him, Christ the Lord -[5351.78 --> 5356.78] Hear the angel voices -[5356.78 --> 5363.78] Sing, come, let us adore him -[5363.78 --> 5370.78] Peace has come for our King is with us -[5370.78 --> 5372.78] Peace has come for our King is with us -[5372.78 --> 5374.78] Peace has come for our King is with us -[5374.78 --> 5375.28] Oh, come, let us adore him -[5375.28 --> 5376.78] Oh, come, let us adore him -[5376.78 --> 5381.78] O come, let us adore him -[5381.78 --> 5388.78] Oh come let us adore him -[5388.78 --> 5396.78] Oh come let us adore him -[5396.78 --> 5404.78] Christ the Lord -[5411.78 --> 5422.78] Oh come let us adore him -[5422.78 --> 5428.78] Oh come let us adore him -[5428.78 --> 5434.78] Oh come let us adore him -[5434.78 --> 5441.78] Let us adore him -[5441.78 --> 5447.78] We join together -[5447.78 --> 5477.76] Thank you. -[5477.78 --> 5507.76] Thank you. -[5507.78 --> 5537.76] Thank you. -[5537.78 --> 5539.78] Thank you. -[5567.78 --> 5569.78] Thank you. -[5597.78 --> 5599.78] Thank you. -[5627.78 --> 5629.78] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - February 12, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - February 12, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b5b63bb2e11c1db936d5810e00674e8e4817a26e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - February 12, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,128 +0,0 @@ -• The lyrics of a worship song are sung throughout the transcript. -• Jesus' resurrection is mentioned multiple times as a reason to rise and have hope. -• No more sorrow or pain will exist when He calls your name. -• The Lord's Supper, also known as Communion, is being observed in church. -• Youth event "2020" has been rescheduled for the afternoon. -• A Christianity Explored course is being hosted by the church soon. -• People can sign up at the Connect table after service. -• Coldest Night of the Year charity event -• Young Adults Bible Studies starting at speaker's house -• Care packages for college or abroad students: volunteer sign-ups needed -• Church hosting classes on March 7th and 8th, requiring volunteers for meals and refreshments -• Worship and lifting up Jesus -• Importance of seeing Jesus lifted high -• Taking ground and breaking strongholds through prayer -• Music and worship as expressions of devotion -• Heart of worship focused on God, not self or rituals -• Request to create clean hearts and restore joy of salvation -• Prayer for a right spirit within me -• Praying for a right spirit, clean heart, and renewal -• Requesting restoration of joy and salvation -• Asking not to be cast away from God's presence -• Expressing need for God's guidance and Holy Spirit in daily life -• Introducing the Adult and Teen Challenge ministry and its focus on Christian discipleship for those struggling with addiction -• Reading scripture passages (1 John 3, 16-18; 2 John 3, 16-18; 4, 17) emphasizing the importance of loving actions and trusting in God's love -• A reading from a Bible passage about trusting in God's love and provision -• Mr. Skarsgård (in character as himself) trying to fool children by dressing up but being recognized, leading into discussion of God seeing through pretenses -• Lead elder Glenn introducing congregational prayer, mentioning updates on Carl Laws' health condition and others in need of prayer -• Congregational prayer led by Glenn, including requests for healing, comfort, and peace for various individuals and families -• Praying for people affected by the earthquake in Turkey and Syria -• Requesting comfort and peace for victims of war and armed conflicts -• Asking for wisdom to be granted to leaders in Europe and North America regarding their roles in ending the war in Ukraine -• Thanking God for the church community, pastors, leaders, and volunteers at Langley Emanuel -• Inviting church members to participate in an Ash Wednesday service on February 22nd -• Beginning a new series in the book of Romans, starting with chapter 2, verses 17-29 -• The concept of circumcision of the heart by the Spirit, not through written code. -• Paul's challenge to his audience's presumption and pride based on their Jewish heritage and social status in Rome. -• The idea that God's blessing and purpose for the Jewish people is to be a light to the nations and a blessing to them. -• Paul's use of Isaiah 42:16 language to emphasize the responsibility of being a guide and light for others. -• The need to "other" this text as applicable only to Jews in ancient Rome, rather than recognizing its relevance to all believers. -• The speaker paraphrases and rephrases Paul's intent in a particular passage -• Christians who rely on good works, morality, or religious systems are warned against "Christian moralism" -• Moralism is distinguished from morality as relying on one's own good deeds to earn merit or favor with God and others -• Warning signs of Christian moralism include boasting about good deeds and downplaying one's sinfulness -• The speaker quotes D. Martin Lloyd-Jones, who applies Paul's question "do you not teach yourself?" to professing Christians -• The speaker notes the danger of knowing the Bible without applying its principles to one's life. -• Reading the Bible from a purely scholastic or dry point of view can lead to moralism rather than a living faith. -• Paul's writings in this section are meant to challenge Christians to examine their own behavior and apply the teachings of the Bible to themselves. -• The speaker argues that moralism will inevitably fail because people are inherently inconsistent with their actions. -• Paul's use of the phrase "rob temples" is figurative, indicating worshiping idols or ideas rather than literal theft. -• The concept of idolatry and how it can take many forms -• Christian moralism as a new form of idolatry -• How hypocrisy in the church is causing people to deconstruct their faith and leave the church -• The consequences of hypocrisy, including blaspheming God's name among non-believers -• The speaker discusses the importance of acknowledging and being honest about one's doubts and struggles with faith. -• They address the issue of hypocrisy among Christians and how pretending to have no doubts can be damaging to others who are struggling. -• The speaker emphasizes that even if their own faith or morality fails, God's truth remains unchanged. -• They encourage those who have been hurt by the church or Christians in the past not to blame God for it, but rather separate the truth of God from human failures. -• Hypocrisy and the difficulty in recognizing it -• The importance of self-reflection and asking questions about one's own hypocrisy -• Christian moralism vs genuine faith -• Identifying signs of hypocrisy, such as being overly defensive or judgmental -• Living with spiritual anxiety due to feelings of not being good enough -• A personal anecdote about providing pastoral care to a church member who struggled with similar anxieties despite a long life of service -• The depth and power of spiritual things to work in us and through us -• Misconceptions about Christianity and its attractiveness to others -• The need for self-examination and questioning one's own hypocrisy and moralism -• The importance of being attractive to the faith, showing humility for Jesus, and living as signposts of His beauty -• Observations of the church's authentic community and its drawing power to outsiders -• The gospel and its purpose in revealing God's kingdom -• Critique of moralism as offering "dead orthodoxy" -• The transformative power of the Gospel to change people into what God designed them to be -• Paul addressing traditional, conservative Christians -• The illustration from circumcision as a symbol of cultural identity -• The relationship between individuals and God is based on a symbol that signifies righteousness -• External markers such as baptism, profession of faith, or church membership do not guarantee true Christianity -• True Christianity is characterized by inner change, heart transformation, and supernatural work of God in one's life -• It is possible to live externally as a Christian without genuine internal transformation. -• Dead orthodoxy is described as having an intellectual grasp of the gospel but no internal transformation -• It makes church participation a safety net for people who think they are Christian, focusing on rules and external behaviors -• Dead orthodoxy can manifest in emphasizing theological correctness or emotional experiences, often requiring conformity from others -• Another characteristic of dead orthodoxy is putting emphasis on rituals and repetition of tradition. -• Liturgy and music in worship -• The importance of theological accuracy and moral living -• The danger of dead orthodoxy and trusting in actions instead of Christ -• The need for a circumcision of the heart, which involves trusting in Christ alone -• The word "covenant" in the Bible refers to a special and intentional kind of relationship. -• In modern times, the word is often used only in legal documents or the context of marriage. -• Covenants were an important part of ancient Near Eastern culture, defining various aspects of relationships between nations, kings, and vassals. -• The structure and ceremony of covenants are seen in practices like circumcision and other biblical examples. -• A covenant typically involves a symbolic expression of the consequences of not keeping one's end of the bargain. -• Circumcision as a covenant symbol -• Separation from the world, marked for a purpose -• Importance of reflecting deeper spiritual reality -• Christ's sacrifice and separation from God on behalf of others -• Receiving Christ's righteousness through faith -• Circumcision of the heart, living the life Jesus lived -• Jesus as the only source of life and transformation -• Dead orthodoxy can be made alive through reliance on Jesus -• The truth of the gospel is life and abundant joy -• Trusting in Jesus Christ rather than morality, religiosity, or liturgy -• The table of communion as a symbol of meeting with Jesus and being transformed by his power -• The image of Jesus Christ and being transformed into it by grace through faith -• Giving thanks to God for creating heaven, earth, and humanity in His image -• Celebrating the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and opening the way to everlasting life -• Observing the Lord's Supper as a memorial of His sacrifice until He comes again -• Invitation to come to a table for spiritual nourishment -• Encouragement for those with faith, regardless of amount or frequency, to participate -• Emphasis on Jesus' invitation and Christ's presence in the sacrament -• Instructions for group participation and passing of elements -• Encouragement to acknowledge Christ's sacrifice when receiving bread and juice -• Instructions for worship service attendees -• Availability of prayer and assistance at the back of the venue -• Invitation to worship volunteers to come forward -• Repeated expression of gratitude -• Worship song lyrics, including praise for God's holiness and worthiness -• Reflection on the significance of Christ's cross and resurrection -• Praise and worship of God as Savior -• Description of God's attributes (e.g. Wonderful Counselor, Glorious in majesty) -• Reference to Jesus Christ as the Lamb of God -• Invitation to come to the foot of the cross and find salvation -• Declaration of God's love for the world and His desire to save humanity -• Praise and worship of God for His redemption and deliverance -• Praise and worship of the Lord -• The good news of God's rescue and redemption -• Invitation to come to Calvary for forgiveness and healing -• Prayer for a tender-hearted presence in everyday life -• Blessing and encouragement for faith and heart -• Music and singing of praise songs \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - February 12, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - February 12, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f656c2fb8ce9f390494e43e322bff4fc7f81a414..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - February 12, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2657 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 12.68] Rise on eagles' wings before my God, fall on my knees and rise. -[15.74 --> 18.36] I will rise. -[22.46 --> 26.36] There's a day that's drawing near. -[26.36 --> 38.20] When this darkness breaks to light and the shadows disappear. -[39.78 --> 44.36] And my faith shall be my eyes. -[46.50 --> 55.36] Jesus has overcome and the grave is overwhelmed. -[56.36 --> 62.70] The victory is won. -[63.50 --> 67.84] He is risen from the dead. -[68.20 --> 71.86] And I will rise. -[71.96 --> 74.36] When He calls my name. -[75.56 --> 78.10] No more sorrow. -[78.66 --> 80.68] No more pain. -[80.68 --> 82.68] I will rise. -[82.68 --> 83.84] I will rise. -[83.84 --> 86.76] On eagles' wings. -[87.02 --> 89.72] Before my God. -[90.14 --> 92.66] Fall on my knees. -[93.10 --> 94.68] And rise. -[94.68 --> 96.68] I will rise. -[96.68 --> 101.68] I will rise. -[101.68 --> 103.68] I will rise. -[103.68 --> 105.68] I will rise. -[105.68 --> 112.68] And I hear the voice of many angels sing. -[114.02 --> 117.84] Worthy is the Lamb. -[117.84 --> 127.84] Worthy is the Lamb. -[127.84 --> 129.68] Worthy is the Lamb. -[129.68 --> 130.68] Worthy is the Lamb. -[130.68 --> 136.64] And I hear the voice of many angels sing. -[136.64 --> 141.24] Worthy is the Lamb. -[141.24 --> 147.68] And I hear the cry of every longing heart. -[147.68 --> 148.68] You are worthy. -[148.68 --> 149.68] You are worthy. -[149.68 --> 150.68] Worthy is the Lamb. -[150.68 --> 151.68] You are worthy. -[151.68 --> 152.68] You are worthy. -[152.68 --> 154.68] Worthy is the Lamb. -[154.68 --> 159.68] Worthy is the Lamb. -[159.68 --> 161.68] Worthy is the Lamb. -[161.68 --> 162.68] And I hear theommy's corresponding wine. -[162.68 --> 163.68] divides and the red financialéfine. -[163.68 --> 164.68] And I hear the kiss of many angels knowing our цarazzچos. -[164.68 --> 165.68] Fear of the Lamb. -[165.68 --> 166.84] He will rise. -[167.62 --> 167.68] eload. -[171.68 --> 174.68] piles, sırr timely, Osaka, as had been born ejercit for 16,000-191–Mномoduleками, -[174.68 --> 175.68] tequila, in the blood of Jesus' рукthe Renacrum for 14,600H- primaver, -[175.68 --> 176.68] the crossfire, in the blood of Jesus' рукthe. -[176.68 --> 177.68] In the mountains of Jesus' Housing & H full irmãos, -[177.68 --> 178.68] in that archangel, Psalm 23,300, staye toujours a ningún armen under the need for 21, Amen. -[178.68 --> 180.58] When He calls my name, -[180.58 --> 182.68] no more sorrow. -[182.68 --> 183.68] No more pain. -[183.68 --> 185.68] No more pain. -[185.68 --> 190.68] I will rise. -[190.68 --> 199.68] Eagles weep before my God, fall on my knees and rise. -[202.68 --> 205.68] I will rise. -[208.68 --> 211.68] I will rise. -[220.68 --> 225.68] I will rise. -[228.68 --> 230.68] I will rise. -[231.68 --> 234.68] I will rise. -[235.68 --> 238.68] I will rise. -[239.68 --> 246.68] What gift of grace is Jesus my Redeemer? -[246.68 --> 253.68] There is no more for heaven now to give. -[254.68 --> 258.68] He is my joy, my right. -[259.68 --> 261.68] Good morning. -[262.68 --> 265.68] Welcome to church. -[265.68 --> 270.68] We are really excited to gather to worship our God together this morning. -[270.68 --> 274.68] If you're visiting with us or if you're checking us out online for the first time, -[274.68 --> 277.68] my name is Chris and I'm one of the pastors here. -[277.68 --> 281.68] And it's my privilege, along with these others on stage, -[281.68 --> 285.68] to lead in our worship together this morning. -[285.68 --> 288.68] As you can see from the table set before me, -[288.68 --> 292.68] today we are coming together in the Lord's Supper. -[292.68 --> 297.68] In communion, we gather around the table of our Lord to receive Jesus -[297.68 --> 303.68] in tangible ways to taste and see that the Lord is good. -[303.68 --> 305.68] And so as we worship together this morning, -[306.68 --> 311.68] prepare your hearts and minds to come to this table together. -[311.68 --> 314.68] I'll give some more instructions on what that looks like when we get there. -[315.68 --> 318.68] Before we begin, there's a couple announcements that we would like to make. -[318.68 --> 323.68] The first of which is that if you are a youth, a teenager here, -[323.68 --> 329.68] 2020 that was originally scheduled for this evening has been moved to this afternoon -[329.68 --> 332.68] because there's some sort of sports game or something going on today. -[332.68 --> 338.68] And we wanted to make sure that those of you who were into that could attend and watch that. -[338.68 --> 344.68] So after church, immediately, 2020 will be here and it will come with lunch. -[344.68 --> 346.68] And so there's buns and the like. -[346.68 --> 351.68] And so if you prepared buns for that, I hope that those are in the kitchen there, -[351.68 --> 353.68] ready to go for that time. -[353.68 --> 365.68] As well, we are going to be hosting, running a course or a program called Christianity Explored in the near future. -[365.68 --> 370.68] And if that's something you're interested in, and that's really for people who are new to the Christian faith -[370.68 --> 376.68] or who are returning to the Christian faith, maybe after a few years or many years away, -[376.68 --> 380.68] just to dig into what does it mean to be Christian? -[380.68 --> 382.68] What do we believe? -[382.68 --> 385.68] And so if that's something you're interested in, you can grab me. -[385.68 --> 390.68] I'll be at the Connect table after service and I can sign you up for that -[390.68 --> 393.68] or answer any questions you have and we can get prepared for that. -[393.68 --> 399.68] As well, in February, we have a team that's participating in the coldest night of the year, -[399.68 --> 404.68] which is put on by the Salvation Army run here in Langley through the Gateway of Hope, -[404.68 --> 406.68] where a number of us get together. -[406.68 --> 411.68] We walk for five kilometers and we raise funds to support homelessness -[411.68 --> 416.68] or those who are struggling with homelessness and to provide means and care for them. -[416.68 --> 422.68] Our team can use some rounding out and so we need some more people to sign up. -[422.68 --> 427.68] If you are interested in joining with that, you can go online, coldest night of the year, -[427.68 --> 434.68] and see those details or you can grab Nikki right here and she will fill that in for you. -[434.68 --> 437.68] And then Josh, you had something, right? -[437.68 --> 443.68] Okay, so I have two announcements. -[443.68 --> 447.68] The first one is the Young Adults Bible Studies today at my place. -[447.68 --> 449.68] Lunch is provided. -[449.68 --> 453.68] Then the second announcement is the care packages are happening again. -[453.68 --> 454.68] It's that time of year. -[454.68 --> 463.68] So there are five to six young adults that are away at college or living abroad that are still a part of this church -[463.68 --> 466.68] and we'd like to keep them anchored to this community. -[466.68 --> 472.68] Because a lot of studies show that when they lose that anchor to a faith community that they're from, -[472.68 --> 476.68] that it has negative effects on how they live life and their connection to God. -[476.68 --> 485.68] So we need five to six families or people to volunteer to help make those care packages like we've done the previous years. -[485.68 --> 496.68] They're about the size of a shoe box and then the contents would be like candy, food, socks, to stuff that students would need, -[496.68 --> 501.68] a letter saying hi to them and asking them how they're doing. -[501.68 --> 503.68] You'll get a letter back from them. -[503.68 --> 508.68] And then we need it back. -[508.68 --> 512.68] So you're going to, if you want to volunteer and do this, you're going to need to contact me -[512.68 --> 516.68] and then I'll give you the name of the young adult that you will buy for. -[516.68 --> 521.68] And then you just need to bring the supplies to the church and that we're mailing them out. -[521.68 --> 525.68] So you don't have to mail them out or deal with all that stress with post-Canada. -[525.68 --> 535.68] And yeah, we want to get them by the next Sunday. -[535.68 --> 537.68] Thank you. -[537.68 --> 543.68] If you have any questions about what that is, Josh will also be around after service before he runs to his house to lead the Bible study. -[543.68 --> 544.68] Right, Josh? -[544.68 --> 545.68] Very good. -[545.68 --> 546.68] Okay. -[546.68 --> 548.68] I believe that, oh, one more announcement. -[548.68 --> 549.68] Sorry. -[549.68 --> 554.68] March 7th and 8th, we, our church is hosting classes. -[554.68 --> 562.68] Classes is the regional group of Christian Reformed churches here in the valley and, well, I guess on this side of the Fraser River. -[562.68 --> 569.68] We're hosting that meeting here and that comes with a need to host and provide meals and refreshments and the like. -[569.68 --> 571.68] And so, Dolores is taking care of that. -[571.68 --> 575.68] There's a signup sheet on the round table in the foyer. -[575.68 --> 582.68] If you are able to help or volunteer in that, please connect with Dolores or look at that signup sheet there. -[582.68 --> 584.68] I think that's it. -[584.68 --> 588.68] If I forgot something, you can probably find it in the e-bulletin. -[588.68 --> 595.68] I'm going to invite you to stand as we begin our worship with God's greeting together. -[600.68 --> 606.68] Following God's greeting, I'm going to invite you to turn to those with whom you are worshiping this morning and welcome them. -[606.68 --> 611.68] You can do that in a really traditional way by saying the peace of Christ be with you. -[611.68 --> 618.68] Or you can do that with a fist bump or a handshake and the like and welcoming them into worship. -[618.68 --> 621.68] Receive the greeting of our God. -[622.68 --> 634.68] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, His Son, and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[634.68 --> 637.68] All God's people said, Amen. -[637.68 --> 639.68] Would you turn to welcome those around here? -[641.68 --> 642.68] Have you? -[642.68 --> 643.68] Are you sure we were? -[643.68 --> 644.68] Father's helping progress in his experience. -[644.68 --> 648.68] Are you sure these are as positive as right and when it comes to Paris and in 있어? -[649.68 --> 653.68] Thanks, have you. -[653.68 --> 657.68] Rinse and balance is the tension. -[657.68 --> 659.68] Let us tell theiona to you. -[660.68 --> 663.68] Maybe you're willing. -[663.68 --> 669.68] I'm sure he looks while you another shepherd. -[669.68 --> 678.66] Our call to worship comes from Philippians. -[679.94 --> 682.70] We gather this morning for communal worship. -[683.38 --> 685.04] As brothers and sisters in Christ, -[685.42 --> 687.76] join together as one in the name of Jesus. -[688.58 --> 691.40] For God exalted him to the highest place -[691.40 --> 696.06] and gave him the name that is above every name. -[697.06 --> 700.76] That at the name of Jesus every knee shall bow -[700.76 --> 703.18] in heaven and on earth and under the earth. -[703.78 --> 706.92] And every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. -[706.92 --> 709.24] To the glory of God the Father. -[726.06 --> 733.06] We want to see Jesus lifted high, -[733.30 --> 736.72] a banner that flies across this land. -[737.06 --> 740.34] That all men might see the truth and know -[740.34 --> 743.18] he is the way to heaven. -[744.26 --> 747.90] We want to see Jesus lifted high, -[747.90 --> 751.52] a banner that flies across this land. -[751.52 --> 755.24] That all men might see the truth and know -[755.24 --> 758.30] he is the way to heaven. -[759.14 --> 762.28] We want to see, we want to see, -[762.40 --> 766.28] we want to see Jesus lifted high. -[766.52 --> 769.70] We want to see, we want to see, -[769.70 --> 774.32] we want to see Jesus lifted high. -[774.32 --> 784.98] We want to see Jesus lifted high, -[784.98 --> 788.64] a banner that flies across this land. -[789.10 --> 792.36] That all men might see the truth and know -[792.36 --> 795.22] he is the way to heaven. -[795.22 --> 800.00] We want to see, we want to see, -[800.00 --> 802.00] we want to see Jesus lifted high. -[802.00 --> 818.00] We want to see, we want to see Jesus lifted high. -[818.00 --> 825.62] We want to see, we want to see Jesus lifted high. -[825.62 --> 829.46] Step by step we're moving forward, -[829.88 --> 833.00] little by little we're taking ground. -[833.54 --> 836.80] Every prayer a powerful weapon, -[837.28 --> 840.38] strongholds come and tumbling down, -[840.60 --> 843.32] and down, and down, and down. -[843.32 --> 848.90] We want to see, we want to see, -[848.90 --> 851.46] we want to see Jesus lifted high. -[851.66 --> 854.62] We want to see, we want to see, -[854.62 --> 859.26] we want to see Jesus lifted high. -[859.26 --> 863.32] R limbmembers -[865.74 --> 869.54] And brought форм Start Lots of -[870.54 --> 875.80] Prope you مت on ready -[884.44 --> 888.96] Prope I got long -[889.26 --> 911.12] piano plays softly -[911.12 --> 916.50] When the music fades -[916.50 --> 919.42] All is stripped away -[919.42 --> 924.82] And I simply come -[924.82 --> 930.26] Longing just to bring -[930.26 --> 933.38] Something that's of worth -[933.38 --> 938.72] Love will bless your heart -[938.72 --> 943.76] I'll bring you more than a song -[943.76 --> 946.48] For a song in itself -[946.48 --> 950.54] Is not what you have required -[950.54 --> 956.60] You search much deeper within -[956.60 --> 959.68] Through the way things appear -[959.68 --> 966.46] You're looking into my heart -[966.46 --> 972.88] I'm coming back to the heart of worship -[972.88 --> 976.40] And it's all about you -[976.40 --> 980.60] It's all about you, Jesus -[980.60 --> 986.88] I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made it -[986.88 --> 990.38] When it's all about you -[990.38 --> 994.38] It's all about you, Jesus -[994.38 --> 1005.98] King of endless worth -[1005.98 --> 1008.90] No one could express -[1008.90 --> 1012.10] How much you deserve -[1012.10 --> 1018.76] Though I'm weak and poor -[1018.76 --> 1022.68] All I have is yours -[1022.68 --> 1025.54] Every single breath -[1025.54 --> 1032.40] I'll bring you more than a song -[1032.40 --> 1035.32] For a song in itself -[1035.32 --> 1038.54] Is not what you have required -[1038.54 --> 1045.32] You search much deeper within -[1045.32 --> 1048.76] Through the way things appear -[1048.76 --> 1053.32] You're looking into my heart -[1053.32 --> 1061.10] I'm coming back to the heart of worship -[1061.10 --> 1064.10] And it's all about you -[1064.10 --> 1068.04] All about you, Jesus -[1068.04 --> 1074.86] I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made it -[1074.86 --> 1078.04] When it's all about you -[1078.04 --> 1081.96] It's all about you, Jesus -[1081.96 --> 1087.82] I'm coming back to the heart of worship -[1087.82 --> 1090.82] When it's all about you -[1090.82 --> 1095.28] It's all about you, Jesus -[1095.28 --> 1101.52] I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made it -[1101.52 --> 1104.78] When it's all about you -[1104.78 --> 1108.94] All about you, Jesus -[1108.94 --> 1116.46] Pray with me -[1116.46 --> 1121.86] Search us as we come before you in worship -[1121.86 --> 1124.26] Search our hearts -[1124.26 --> 1127.78] What posture do we come before you, O God? -[1128.50 --> 1131.82] When the music fades and we are faced with silence -[1131.82 --> 1135.58] Do we sit in discomfort -[1135.58 --> 1137.84] And wait for the next song to start? -[1139.76 --> 1142.36] Do we make worship all about us -[1142.36 --> 1144.42] And our rituals and our talents? -[1146.30 --> 1150.20] Do we humbly offer our every breath in worship to you? -[1152.26 --> 1155.20] Reveal the parts of us we hide away -[1155.20 --> 1158.64] As your people who come to hear your word -[1158.64 --> 1161.10] Sometimes our ears are deaf -[1161.10 --> 1164.94] Because the eyes of our heart are not on you -[1164.94 --> 1167.56] Create in us clean hearts -[1167.56 --> 1170.44] And restore to us the joy of thy salvation -[1170.44 --> 1174.20] That we may not fool ourselves in our worship -[1174.20 --> 1176.34] But truly worship you -[1176.34 --> 1178.52] It is the perfect worship -[1178.52 --> 1181.96] That can only come through Christ Jesus, our Lord -[1181.96 --> 1206.62] Create in me a clean heart -[1206.62 --> 1208.62] Oh God -[1208.62 --> 1215.92] And renew a right spirit within me -[1215.92 --> 1221.62] Create in me a clean heart -[1221.62 --> 1224.62] Oh God -[1224.62 --> 1231.62] And renew a right spirit within me -[1231.62 --> 1235.96] Cast me not away -[1235.96 --> 1236.42] Cast me not away -[1236.42 --> 1240.46] From thy presence, O Lord -[1240.46 --> 1246.96] And take not thy Holy Spirit from me -[1246.96 --> 1252.00] Restore unto me -[1252.00 --> 1255.36] The joy of thy salvation -[1255.36 --> 1261.82] And renew a right spirit within me -[1261.82 --> 1268.20] Create in me a clean heart -[1268.20 --> 1270.70] Oh God -[1270.70 --> 1277.70] And renew a right spirit within me -[1277.70 --> 1279.04] Create in me -[1279.04 --> 1284.16] Create in me a clean heart -[1284.16 --> 1286.04] Oh God -[1286.04 --> 1290.04] And renew a right spirit within me -[1290.04 --> 1292.04] Create in me -[1292.04 --> 1294.04] Create in me a clean heart, O God -[1294.04 --> 1295.04] And renew a right spirit within me -[1295.04 --> 1297.04] Cast me not away -[1297.04 --> 1301.38] From thy presence, O Lord -[1301.38 --> 1303.38] And take not thy Holy Spirit from me -[1303.38 --> 1305.38] And take not thy Holy Spirit from me -[1305.38 --> 1310.38] Restore unto me -[1310.38 --> 1311.38] Restore unto me -[1311.38 --> 1315.38] The joy of thy salvation -[1315.38 --> 1318.38] And renew a right spirit within me -[1318.38 --> 1319.38] Restore unto me -[1319.38 --> 1320.38] The joy of thy salvation -[1320.38 --> 1322.38] And renew a right spirit within me -[1322.38 --> 1326.38] Cast me not away -[1326.38 --> 1330.72] From thy presence, O Lord -[1330.72 --> 1334.72] And take not thy Holy Spirit from me -[1334.72 --> 1339.72] Restore unto me -[1339.72 --> 1341.72] Restore unto me -[1341.72 --> 1344.72] The joy of thy salvation -[1344.72 --> 1350.72] And renew a right spirit within me -[1350.72 --> 1352.72] Restore unto me -[1352.72 --> 1355.80] Subtitel unto me -[1355.80 --> 1370.06] Subtitel unto me -[1370.06 --> 1371.06] The joy of thy salvation -[1371.06 --> 1371.08] And nominal -[1371.08 --> 1372.20] Lord -[1372.20 --> 1373.98] Most years -[1373.98 --> 1376.10] Abquality -[1376.10 --> 1402.42] I need thee every hour, most gracious Lord. -[1402.42 --> 1411.96] No tender voice like thine can peace afford. -[1412.64 --> 1421.88] I need thee, oh, I need thee every hour, I need thee. -[1421.88 --> 1432.32] Oh, bless me now, my Savior, I come to thee. -[1432.42 --> 1442.36] I need thee every hour, stay thou nearby. -[1442.36 --> 1452.30] Temptations lose their power when thou art not. -[1452.30 --> 1461.74] I need thee, oh, I need thee every hour, I need thee. -[1461.74 --> 1470.74] Oh, bless me now, my Savior, I come to thee. -[1470.74 --> 1482.48] I need thee every hour, enjoy your pain. -[1482.48 --> 1491.78] Come quickly and abide, for life is vain. -[1491.78 --> 1501.32] I need thee, oh, I need thee every hour, I need thee. -[1501.32 --> 1511.26] Oh, bless me now, my Savior, I come to thee. -[1511.26 --> 1522.20] I need thee every hour, most holy one. -[1522.20 --> 1527.20] Oh, make me thine indeed. -[1527.20 --> 1537.20] Oh, bless me now, my Savior, I come to thee. -[1537.20 --> 1538.20] Every hour, I need thee. -[1538.20 --> 1539.20] Every hour, I need thee. -[1539.20 --> 1540.20] Every hour, I need thee. -[1540.20 --> 1553.20] Oh, bless me now, my Savior, I come to thee. -[1553.20 --> 1554.20] I invite you to be seated. -[1554.20 --> 1584.18] Good morning. -[1584.18 --> 1586.18] Can you hear me? -[1586.18 --> 1588.18] Oh, yeah, there we go. -[1588.18 --> 1592.04] Good morning, I'm Clem, I'm a deacon here at Emmanuel. -[1592.04 --> 1597.52] We continue our worship with the giving of our gifts to the budget, which covers the administration -[1597.52 --> 1600.64] of the church and its ministries. -[1600.64 --> 1608.32] And the special offering is Adult and Teen Challenge, a ministry that strives to help men -[1608.32 --> 1612.32] and women recover from substance abuse problems. -[1612.32 --> 1620.32] Holds strictly to the philosophy that the individual must desperately and sincerely desire to change. -[1620.32 --> 1640.32] The ministry prepares students to reenter society as productive and valued citizens, followers of Jesus Christ, faithful husbands, wives, dedicated fathers, mothers, outstanding employees, healthy and balanced individuals, completely free of addiction. -[1640.32 --> 1652.32] The mentoring and guidance is not psychologically or therapeutic in nature, but follows biblical counseling and perspective and application. -[1652.32 --> 1664.32] It is not a drug rehabilitation program, but a Christian discipleship program specifically structured towards those with life controlling problems. -[1664.32 --> 1669.32] God is at the center of all that we envision, pursue and accomplish. -[1669.32 --> 1681.32] We prayerfully seek His will and trust that He is guiding us every step of the way in providing excellence of care for the men and women we are entrusted to serve. -[1681.32 --> 1687.98] Through His truth, love, and grace, we boldly walk as servant leaders in His great commission. -[1689.28 --> 1700.94] The ministry of Adult and Teen Challenge is based entirely upon the belief that a relationship with God through Jesus Christ is the only way to find permanent and lasting freedom. -[1702.38 --> 1705.10] 1 John 3, 16-18 -[1705.10 --> 1707.90] This is how we know what love is. -[1708.16 --> 1711.12] Jesus Christ laid down His life for ours. -[1711.32 --> 1712.38] 1 John 3, 17-19 -[1712.38 --> 1715.56] And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. -[1716.14 --> 1716.44] 2 John 3, 16-18 -[1716.44 --> 1727.10] If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? -[1727.64 --> 1729.38] 2 John 4, 17-19 -[1729.38 --> 1733.98] Let us not love with words or speech, but with actions and in truth. -[1733.98 --> 1734.22] 2 John 4, 17 -[1734.22 --> 1735.22] Amen. -[1735.22 --> 1737.22] 2 John 5, 17 -[1737.22 --> 1766.72] If you but trust in God -[1766.72 --> 1768.22] to guide you -[1768.22 --> 1772.94] and place your confidence in Him -[1772.94 --> 1778.02] You'll find Him always there beside you -[1778.02 --> 1782.72] to give you hope and strength within -[1782.72 --> 1787.68] For those who trust God's changeless love -[1787.68 --> 1793.22] Build on the rock that will not move -[1793.22 --> 1801.08] Only be still and wait His pleasure -[1801.08 --> 1805.54] In cheerful hope with heart content -[1805.54 --> 1810.72] He fills your needs to fullest measure -[1810.72 --> 1815.58] With what discerning love has sent -[1815.58 --> 1820.28] Doubt not our inmost ones are known -[1820.28 --> 1825.72] To Him who chose us for His own -[1825.72 --> 1833.78] Sing, pray, and keep His ways unswerving -[1833.78 --> 1837.92] Offer your service faithfully -[1837.92 --> 1842.94] And trust His word, the one deserving -[1842.94 --> 1847.80] You'll find His promise true to be -[1847.80 --> 1852.70] God never will forsake in need -[1852.70 --> 1857.30] The soul that trusts in Him indeed -[1857.30 --> 1865.56] You'll find full threat your faithfully -[1865.56 --> 1871.08] O cold but freedom by faithfully -[1871.08 --> 1897.04] Thank you. -[1901.08 --> 1917.08] My name is Mr. Skarsgård, and I'd like to invite all the three-year-olds to grade four up here. -[1917.08 --> 1924.08] I'm a little confused why you're laughing so much. -[1924.08 --> 1931.08] Nice to meet you guys. I said my name was Mr. Skarsgård. How are you? -[1931.08 --> 1934.08] What? What? What? -[1934.08 --> 1942.08] I can't fool you guys. Did you guys know it was me? -[1942.08 --> 1943.08] Yeah. -[1943.08 --> 1949.08] Oh, man. I thought for sure. Although not anybody else brought their horned helmet to church. -[1949.08 --> 1954.08] I should have figured that one out first. It's easy. Is it easy? -[1954.08 --> 1961.08] Oh, well, thank you for that segue. Did you? Oh, my. Oh, the glasses. -[1961.08 --> 1973.08] Oh, the glasses. Oh, the glasses. I thought maybe you. Oh, oh, oh. I thought maybe the braces. I didn't. Vikings didn't really have braces or wear fancy things like this. -[1973.08 --> 1985.08] You know what? We are going to switch gears in children's worship time. We've been talking about Jesus' early life, and we're going to switch over and start talking about King David a little bit. I know. -[1985.08 --> 2009.08] I know. But, yes. But this whole get up, even though I tried my hardest to fool you guys. Well, maybe not my hardest. To fool you guys that I wasn't Mr. Mike. I was. And you guys saw right through it. And guess what? Guess who always sees right through whatever pretending or masks we have? Exactly. God and Jesus. -[2009.08 --> 2028.36] And he desperately wants us to always see everybody for who they truly are because who they truly are are children of his, no matter what. No matter you're short, tall, you've got crazy hair, you've got no hair, whatever it is, he loves you because he's your father and you are one of his children. -[2028.36 --> 2039.06] So we're going to talk about that some more in children's worship time today, okay? Sound good? I didn't bring a lot of dress-up clothes, though, so we'll probably just keep it chill because we also have Lord's Supper today. -[2039.08 --> 2051.16] Oh, maybe I would have got you then. Okay, let's stand and do the children's blessing. And we'll head off to children's worship time. If the congregation can stand with us. Ready? -[2051.16 --> 2054.16] The Lord be with you. -[2069.08 --> 2094.30] Good morning. My name is Glenn. I'm one of the elders here at Emanuel Church. It's my privilege to lead you in our congregational prayer this morning. -[2094.30 --> 2112.58] Before we do, we have one update on Carl Laws. As you read in the bulletin, he's been suffering from a broken rib. But they've also discovered that he has a pulmonary embolism, two blockages that are being treated. So we want to keep him in our prayers. -[2116.46 --> 2117.56] Let's go to God in prayer. -[2117.56 --> 2138.32] God is our refuge and our strength and ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. -[2138.32 --> 2168.30] There is a river, though, and the mountains quake with their surging. -[2168.30 --> 2172.12] We will be blessed and confidence in you as the psalmist who wrote these words. -[2173.10 --> 2184.32] We thank you for the gift of Jesus, whose life, death, and resurrection made us right with you so that we can approach your throne with boldness to present our prayers and petitions. -[2186.20 --> 2188.18] Bless our time of communion this morning. -[2188.18 --> 2198.08] As we eat, drink, remember, and believe, Christ's body and blood were sacrificed for our sin and our guilt. -[2198.08 --> 2205.12] This morning, we lift all those who are dealing with health concerns. -[2206.12 --> 2209.90] Be with Cy and Greta Visser as Cy receives treatment for cancer. -[2211.20 --> 2216.86] We ask that the treatment will be effective and that you will sustain Cy through the treatment process. -[2216.86 --> 2221.62] We continue to pray for Jackie Birkenpass, who is in the hospital. -[2222.62 --> 2229.42] We ask that you strengthen her and provide the doctor's wisdom to decide the best course of treatment for her. -[2231.10 --> 2237.96] Also be with Carl Loss, who is recovering from both a broken rib and a pulmonary embolism. -[2237.96 --> 2245.16] Enable him to cope with the pain that he is experiencing and grant him a full and complete recovery. -[2247.46 --> 2252.10] We pray for Eva Kochman, Dennis' mom, who broke her hip this week. -[2252.92 --> 2258.02] Thank you for successful surgery, and we ask that you grant her full recovery from her injury. -[2258.88 --> 2261.66] Be near to her as she goes through the healing process. -[2261.66 --> 2268.30] We also ask that you be with Dave Hubertz, who burned his hand quite badly this week. -[2269.02 --> 2274.26] Give him full and complete healing and ease any pain that he may be experiencing. -[2277.60 --> 2283.44] Be with Leanne Harris' father, who discovered that his cancer is inoperable. -[2284.58 --> 2285.34] Be near to him. -[2286.56 --> 2287.44] Walk beside him. -[2287.90 --> 2288.44] Comfort him. -[2289.28 --> 2290.72] And grant him your peace. -[2291.66 --> 2298.16] Bless the grim and heightened families who will have a memorial service for Helen Hanson this week. -[2299.22 --> 2302.84] Grant all of the family members your comfort and peace as they grieve. -[2304.46 --> 2307.48] Bless all who are struggling with illness and with chronic pain. -[2308.70 --> 2311.44] Bless our aging family members who are dealing with these things. -[2312.48 --> 2316.56] Grant them your comfort and strength to cope if healing is not your will. -[2316.56 --> 2328.48] Father, we also pray for your comfort and blessing for all those who lost loved ones in Turkey and Syria due to a devastating earthquake about a week ago. -[2329.92 --> 2330.54] Comfort them. -[2331.28 --> 2333.22] Grant them your peace as they grieve. -[2334.58 --> 2339.70] Bless all the organizations engaged in providing disaster relief to those affected. -[2339.70 --> 2345.26] And bless these organizations who will be involved with cleanup and rebuilding. -[2346.20 --> 2351.80] And provide all the necessary resources to support those affected by this devastating event. -[2351.80 --> 2361.98] We pray for people in so many areas of the world who suffer the effects of war and armed conflicts. -[2362.98 --> 2364.34] Comfort the victims of war. -[2365.12 --> 2368.92] Cause the leaders of groups who perpetrate war to change their hearts. -[2369.98 --> 2372.74] Help them become agents of peace rather than war. -[2372.74 --> 2378.26] And we ask that you grant wisdom to the leaders in Europe and in North America. -[2378.90 --> 2382.68] As they consider their roles in helping end the war in Ukraine. -[2384.94 --> 2387.80] Father, we thank you for this church community at Langley Emanuel. -[2388.52 --> 2391.60] We thank you for our pastors, leaders, and volunteers. -[2392.28 --> 2394.58] And for the many ways that they serve this community. -[2395.96 --> 2402.38] Enable us as a church to be body, or church body, to be salt and light in the community of Langley. -[2403.60 --> 2407.78] We thank you that Jackie Hubert and Robin Baumann could attend the worship symposium this week. -[2408.66 --> 2411.56] And we ask that you bless the worship committee with wisdom. -[2411.94 --> 2413.84] As they lead us in praise and worship. -[2416.14 --> 2417.76] And now as we turn to your word. -[2418.06 --> 2419.90] We ask that you bless Pastor Chris. -[2420.12 --> 2422.16] As he brings us the truth of your word. -[2423.16 --> 2426.80] Enable him to speak with clarity and with boldness. -[2427.68 --> 2428.92] Give us ears to hear. -[2429.68 --> 2432.66] And hearts which are eager to follow your leading in obedience. -[2432.74 --> 2436.44] And as we go from this place into a new week. -[2437.18 --> 2440.96] Equip us to love you with all of our hearts, souls, and minds. -[2441.64 --> 2444.68] And to love our neighbors as ourselves. -[2445.50 --> 2445.80] Amen. -[2446.62 --> 2447.10] Amen. -[2447.10 --> 2447.46] Amen. -[2447.46 --> 2447.50] Amen. -[2447.50 --> 2447.76] Amen. -[2448.04 --> 2448.50] Amen. -[2448.66 --> 2449.06] Amen. -[2449.36 --> 2452.58] Amen. -[2453.36 --> 2454.28] Amen. -[2455.32 --> 2458.38] Amen. -[2458.38 --> 2482.86] Before we open God's Word, which we're going to do in Romans 2, I did realize I forgot -[2482.86 --> 2491.94] an announcement at the beginning. And so in a week and a half, we are going to, as a church, -[2492.10 --> 2502.46] enter into the season of Lent. Lent is the season which precedes Good Friday and Easter. -[2502.82 --> 2511.18] And Lent begins on Ash Wednesday. And so there's going to be an Ash Wednesday service for you that -[2511.18 --> 2517.32] will come with the imposition of ashes. And so that will come with the marking of ash on your -[2517.32 --> 2522.80] forehead if you choose to participate in that way. You don't have to if that's not something you -[2522.80 --> 2527.86] are familiar with or comfortable with. But we do want to invite you to that service on Ash Wednesday, -[2528.02 --> 2535.04] which is February 22nd. That's a Wednesday. It will happen at 7 o'clock in the morning. -[2535.04 --> 2545.16] It's 7 in the morning. So we can begin that series in Lent and spend the day marked with ashes or -[2545.16 --> 2552.76] spend the day reflecting on what is to come. And so February 22nd, 7 o'clock in the morning here, -[2553.02 --> 2558.86] we will have a special and short service for Ash Wednesday. -[2558.86 --> 2570.28] With that, we are going to return in our series in the book of Romans to Romans 2. I invite you, -[2570.36 --> 2577.10] if you have a Bible, to open that up. We're going to spend some time in verse 17 through 29, -[2577.46 --> 2581.64] through the end of the chapter. And our first read-through will be on the screen behind me, -[2581.68 --> 2588.10] so you can follow along there. But as always, I, of course, encourage you to have that in your hands -[2588.10 --> 2598.36] as we go through together. This is the word of God in Romans 2, starting at verse 17. -[2602.10 --> 2611.36] Now, you, if you call yourself a Jew, if you rely on the law and boast in God, if you know his will -[2611.36 --> 2618.92] and approve of what is superior because you are instructed by the law, if you are convinced that -[2618.92 --> 2624.52] you are a guide for the blind, a light for those who are in the dark, an instructor of the foolish, -[2624.68 --> 2630.26] a teacher of little children, because you have in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truth, -[2630.84 --> 2637.70] you then, who teach others, do you not teach yourself? -[2637.70 --> 2642.32] You who preach against stealing, do you steal? -[2643.34 --> 2648.46] You who say that people should not commit adultery, do you commit adultery? -[2649.26 --> 2653.28] You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? -[2654.56 --> 2659.52] You who boast in the law, do you dishonor God by breaking the law? -[2660.58 --> 2663.70] As it is written, God's name is being blasphemed -[2663.70 --> 2666.98] blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you. -[2669.18 --> 2675.00] Circumcision has value if you observe the law, but if you break the law, you have become as though -[2675.00 --> 2676.84] you had not been circumcised. -[2677.80 --> 2683.72] So then, if those who are not circumcised keep the law's requirements, will they not be regarded -[2683.72 --> 2685.64] as though they were circumcised? -[2685.64 --> 2691.66] The one who is not circumcised physically and yet obeys the law will condemn you who, -[2691.88 --> 2697.08] even though you have the written code and circumcision, are a lawbreaker. -[2698.08 --> 2706.00] A person is not a Jew who is one only outwardly, nor is circumcision merely outward and physical. -[2706.00 --> 2713.94] No, a person is a Jew who is one inwardly, and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, -[2714.24 --> 2717.48] by the spirit, not by the written code. -[2718.32 --> 2722.96] Such a person's praise is not from other people, but from God. -[2723.72 --> 2724.98] This is the word of the Lord. -[2724.98 --> 2739.14] One of the first songs that we sang this morning has in the first pre-chorus the line, -[2739.44 --> 2745.86] I'll bring you more than a song, for a song in itself is not what you have required. -[2746.72 --> 2750.76] You search much deeper within through the way things appear. -[2750.76 --> 2753.88] You are looking into my heart. -[2754.98 --> 2758.70] This morning, we're going to dig into what that means, -[2760.02 --> 2763.60] and what Paul says here in Romans 17. -[2764.20 --> 2770.84] And what I am confident we will see, and that you might see for yourself, -[2771.54 --> 2777.76] is that when you look into your heart of faith, it might be dead. -[2777.76 --> 2785.40] There's a lot to get through this morning, and so let's jump right in. -[2787.00 --> 2792.72] In these first few verses that we read, Paul is challenging his audience, -[2792.98 --> 2795.92] and he's challenging their presumption. -[2796.72 --> 2801.02] Their presumption of place and their presumption of life. -[2801.02 --> 2809.50] And it's easy for us to not hear the force of it, or to not hear how potentially offensive it is, -[2809.56 --> 2814.12] because, as far as I am aware, none of us here are Jewish. -[2815.74 --> 2816.18] Right? -[2816.24 --> 2822.96] And so when we read a text like this one, it's easy to sort of other the text. -[2822.96 --> 2824.04] Right? -[2824.08 --> 2826.00] It's easy to say this is about someone else. -[2826.08 --> 2827.90] This is for someone else. -[2828.06 --> 2829.88] It applies to someone else. -[2830.68 --> 2838.38] But Paul's purpose in this text is to actually challenge the othering that's been happening already, -[2838.52 --> 2845.04] that's been happening as the first hearers of this have gone through. -[2845.04 --> 2856.74] The people that Paul is writing to are likely Jewish, Bible-believing converts to Christianity living in Rome. -[2857.96 --> 2865.08] If you know anything about history at this time, right, Rome is the center of the empire, -[2865.36 --> 2868.50] and from the perspective of the Romans, it's the center of the world. -[2868.50 --> 2875.62] And so think about the privilege and the presumption that would result for that. -[2876.02 --> 2876.12] Right? -[2876.24 --> 2882.50] And not just socially, but religiously, because here you have a Jew living in Rome. -[2882.68 --> 2882.84] Right? -[2882.90 --> 2886.40] I am religiously one of the chosen of God. -[2887.34 --> 2888.92] I have the law. -[2889.14 --> 2890.32] I have the word. -[2890.82 --> 2892.54] I know the truth. -[2892.54 --> 2901.92] And, to top it off, I live in the center of political power, the best place to live in the world. -[2903.26 --> 2908.54] And what Paul is doing as they listen to this text is he pulls them in close. -[2909.26 --> 2912.80] It's kind of like he's, the image I have is him like gathering people up. -[2912.92 --> 2916.40] He's saying, okay, come, listen to what I'm saying. -[2916.50 --> 2916.72] Listen. -[2916.82 --> 2917.96] He's drawing them in. -[2918.02 --> 2920.50] That's what he's doing in verse 17 through 20. -[2920.50 --> 2923.86] He says, if you call yourself a Jew, come close. -[2924.50 --> 2925.18] Gather round. -[2925.38 --> 2927.38] Listen to what I have to say. -[2927.54 --> 2931.58] If you rely on the law and you boast in God, come on here. -[2932.60 --> 2934.18] Come on close. -[2934.32 --> 2935.94] Hear what I will tell you. -[2936.20 --> 2939.60] If you know his will and have studied his law, listen up. -[2940.04 --> 2941.02] This is for you. -[2941.36 --> 2946.80] If you are convinced that you are a guide for the blind and a light for those who are in the dark. -[2946.80 --> 2953.82] Actually, this is language that's taken directly out of Isaiah 42, verse 16. -[2955.12 --> 2955.54] Right? -[2955.60 --> 2960.06] And it's about what God will do through the servant of the Lord. -[2960.82 --> 2963.52] And they have adopted it for themselves. -[2965.08 --> 2968.40] And then Paul now connects that directly to verse 20. -[2968.40 --> 2975.68] He says, if you are an instructor of the foolish and a teacher of children because you have knowledge and truth. -[2976.08 --> 2980.84] And all of this is building on an idea that we can tie back to Genesis 12. -[2981.34 --> 2984.60] And in Genesis 12, God first approaches Abram. -[2984.76 --> 2986.70] Then his name is eventually changed to Abraham. -[2987.38 --> 2987.52] Right? -[2987.52 --> 2993.28] And God promises to bless him and to make his descendants into a great nation. -[2993.66 --> 2997.60] And the purpose of that blessing and that great nation, he ends in Genesis 12, verse 3, -[2997.68 --> 3002.38] is that all people on earth will be blessed through you. -[3004.22 --> 3004.40] Right? -[3004.48 --> 3008.30] The Jewish people had a built-in purpose. -[3008.30 --> 3018.56] They have a commission from God to reveal him to the nations and to be a blessing to them as God's chosen people. -[3019.06 --> 3024.86] And they took pride in all of this as identifying features. -[3025.60 --> 3028.64] And so remember, Paul is gathering them all up. -[3028.74 --> 3031.68] He's drawing them in so that they will hear. -[3031.68 --> 3039.36] Because it would be easy for them to listen to everything he has said so far about others. -[3040.22 --> 3042.84] And he wants to include them. -[3044.10 --> 3048.54] And like I said, as we sit here now 2,000 some odd years later, -[3048.54 --> 3053.78] it's even easier for you and me to other this text. -[3055.36 --> 3055.80] Right? -[3055.86 --> 3058.48] To think that this is about someone other than me. -[3058.60 --> 3061.04] And so I'm going to paraphrase it, this first part. -[3062.12 --> 3063.28] I'm going to paraphrase it. -[3063.34 --> 3064.50] I'm going to make a small change. -[3064.88 --> 3065.10] Right? -[3065.22 --> 3070.04] That hopefully connecting to Paul's intent that he would have had back then. -[3070.30 --> 3072.92] And so listen to the same verses this way. -[3074.30 --> 3080.98] If you call yourself a Christian, a born-again, Bible-believing Christian, -[3081.64 --> 3084.60] if you have studied the Bible, if you've done profession of faith, -[3084.60 --> 3087.38] and if you've been in small groups all of your life, -[3087.38 --> 3091.68] if you've taught an Alpha course or taught a Christianity Explored course, -[3091.92 --> 3095.52] or you've volunteered in Sunday school or in children's worship time, -[3095.66 --> 3099.78] if you have done all of these things, this is for you. -[3099.78 --> 3107.72] And so for you, born and raised Christian folk, -[3108.72 --> 3112.22] this is for you. -[3112.22 --> 3116.60] Now, right away, and again, don't hear what I'm not saying, right? -[3116.66 --> 3119.52] Because Paul is not saying that there's anything wrong with being a Jew -[3119.52 --> 3122.06] or there's anything wrong with these identifying markers. -[3122.32 --> 3125.90] He's not saying there's anything wrong with knowing God's law -[3125.90 --> 3127.72] or having it written on your heart. -[3128.38 --> 3128.64] Right? -[3128.70 --> 3131.02] That's what they're commanded to do in Deuteronomy. -[3131.02 --> 3135.30] He's not saying there's anything wrong with using God's law, his Torah, -[3135.54 --> 3137.54] to help you make decisions in your life -[3137.54 --> 3140.86] and to seek his purposes for what you might do. -[3141.54 --> 3145.60] The problem, Paul says, and you can look closely at verse 17 to see it, -[3145.66 --> 3152.10] the problem is those who rely on the law, -[3152.36 --> 3156.20] those who boast, who brag. -[3157.36 --> 3157.60] Right? -[3157.62 --> 3160.38] It's not their Jewishness or their having the law. -[3160.38 --> 3162.88] It's the presumption of what that means. -[3164.06 --> 3164.12] Right? -[3164.24 --> 3166.32] It's the presumption that they make -[3166.32 --> 3169.22] that is the attitude that they carry. -[3169.80 --> 3173.08] They are relying on these good things, -[3173.26 --> 3176.24] their moral things or these religious systems. -[3177.48 --> 3179.02] As one writer says, -[3179.18 --> 3183.38] there's not much difference between the words morality and moralism, -[3183.62 --> 3186.04] but there is an eternal world of difference -[3186.04 --> 3188.24] between making a good thing, morality, -[3188.82 --> 3190.36] into your God. -[3190.38 --> 3191.96] which is moralism. -[3194.06 --> 3198.56] One of the most dangerous things for Christians in the world today -[3198.56 --> 3204.36] is when it comes to understanding our faith -[3204.36 --> 3208.40] is the danger of Christian moralism. -[3208.40 --> 3213.26] Now, this shows up in two kinds of ways. -[3214.46 --> 3214.66] Right? -[3214.70 --> 3217.18] Whenever you talk about something that you have done, -[3217.54 --> 3222.82] a good thing that you have done in a way that is intended to earn the praise of others -[3222.82 --> 3227.08] or is intended to boost your standing amongst them, -[3228.22 --> 3232.16] right, to boost your standing in your own heart and your own mind, -[3232.16 --> 3238.22] then you are relying on your own good works to earn merit -[3238.22 --> 3241.34] or to earn favor or to earn status. -[3241.34 --> 3241.74] Right? -[3242.38 --> 3245.24] With them and with God. -[3245.24 --> 3248.80] But also on the other end of this, right, -[3248.98 --> 3250.94] whenever you say something like, -[3251.50 --> 3252.98] I'm too sinful. -[3253.98 --> 3254.18] Right? -[3254.22 --> 3257.02] Or God could never forgive this in my life. -[3257.30 --> 3259.22] I've done way too many wrong things. -[3259.70 --> 3259.82] Right? -[3259.88 --> 3262.00] Whether you're on one side or the other, -[3262.00 --> 3267.12] you're living out of a perspective of a functional Christian moralist. -[3267.12 --> 3271.22] And the question that Paul is asking in verse 21 -[3271.22 --> 3277.06] is intended to get you to reflect on whether or not this is what you are doing. -[3277.78 --> 3281.84] Whether or not you are living as a religious moralist. -[3281.88 --> 3282.10] He says, -[3282.26 --> 3285.20] You then who teach others, do you not teach yourself? -[3286.28 --> 3289.04] You who preach against stealing, do you steal? -[3292.14 --> 3295.00] In the early and mid-20th century, -[3295.00 --> 3300.36] there was a British preacher by the name of D. Martin Lloyd-Jones. -[3301.44 --> 3306.08] And he applies this question to professing Christians in a powerful way. -[3306.14 --> 3307.08] It's a bit of a longer quote. -[3307.24 --> 3308.10] You will see it there. -[3309.10 --> 3311.10] But hear it as I read. -[3312.62 --> 3313.22] He asks, -[3313.40 --> 3315.64] As you read your Bible day by day, -[3315.76 --> 3318.72] do you apply the truth to yourself? -[3319.62 --> 3321.80] What is your motive when you read the Bible? -[3321.80 --> 3326.08] Is it just to have a knowledge of it so that you can show off to others -[3326.08 --> 3328.20] how much you know and argue with them? -[3328.46 --> 3331.34] Or are you applying the truth to yourselves? -[3332.94 --> 3333.16] Right? -[3333.22 --> 3335.00] As you read, say to yourself, -[3335.12 --> 3335.88] This is me. -[3336.38 --> 3338.04] What is this thing about me? -[3338.22 --> 3340.38] Allow the scripture to search you. -[3340.76 --> 3343.88] Otherwise, it can be very dangerous. -[3343.88 --> 3347.04] There is a sense, he continues, -[3347.52 --> 3349.54] in which the more you know of the Bible, -[3349.90 --> 3351.80] the more dangerous it is to you -[3351.80 --> 3354.22] if you do not apply it to yourself. -[3357.14 --> 3358.60] And can I be honest with you? -[3359.30 --> 3360.58] When I read that this week, -[3361.16 --> 3363.42] that cut me. -[3364.62 --> 3365.74] That got me. -[3366.02 --> 3366.90] Because that's me. -[3368.06 --> 3370.72] That's how I default to reading the Bible. -[3370.80 --> 3371.36] I'm a preacher. -[3371.36 --> 3372.40] I'm a teacher. -[3372.84 --> 3375.36] And so I always read the Bible thinking, -[3375.86 --> 3377.14] How can I teach this? -[3378.12 --> 3379.98] And how can I apply this to others? -[3380.64 --> 3383.40] How can I remember this so that when I'm in a conversation, -[3383.58 --> 3386.42] I can quote it and accurately represent it? -[3388.10 --> 3389.16] This is me. -[3390.34 --> 3394.96] I need to let the Word of God be living and active in my heart -[3394.96 --> 3396.02] and for my heart. -[3396.10 --> 3399.72] I need to let the Word of God divide my bone from marrow. -[3399.72 --> 3403.30] On these pages are more than just words. -[3403.44 --> 3405.80] On these pages are the Word of truth, -[3405.92 --> 3407.80] the words of eternal life. -[3409.14 --> 3411.22] It does me no good, -[3411.30 --> 3412.86] and it does you no good -[3412.86 --> 3415.76] to approach these words of God -[3415.76 --> 3419.48] from a purely scholastic -[3419.48 --> 3423.44] or dry point of view. -[3423.44 --> 3425.82] And that's the thing. -[3426.82 --> 3431.62] That's the first way we move from moralism -[3431.62 --> 3434.74] to a gospel religion. -[3435.16 --> 3438.40] That the Word of God has to become alive to you. -[3439.98 --> 3441.24] Let me put it another way. -[3442.44 --> 3447.00] The Word of God is life for you. -[3447.00 --> 3450.32] And if you feel like the Bible -[3450.32 --> 3451.96] and reading the Bible is a chore -[3451.96 --> 3453.44] or a burden, -[3454.50 --> 3455.62] maybe -[3455.62 --> 3458.90] you're stuck in Christian moralism. -[3461.42 --> 3462.78] And if that's you, -[3463.78 --> 3466.70] with sensitivity -[3466.70 --> 3468.46] and empathy, -[3468.46 --> 3472.00] can I just say that -[3472.00 --> 3473.80] your moralism -[3473.80 --> 3475.44] will fail you. -[3476.82 --> 3477.96] Your moralism -[3477.96 --> 3479.00] will fail you -[3479.00 --> 3480.88] because we are all inconsistent -[3480.88 --> 3482.22] with our morality. -[3482.40 --> 3483.44] We're all inconsistent -[3483.44 --> 3484.56] with our behavior. -[3484.80 --> 3486.62] No matter how hard we try, -[3487.00 --> 3488.44] there is failure. -[3488.68 --> 3489.52] And that's the point -[3489.52 --> 3490.30] that Paul is making -[3490.30 --> 3491.26] in this section. -[3491.40 --> 3492.64] He starts with those questions -[3492.64 --> 3494.08] that we've already looked at. -[3494.12 --> 3494.30] He says, -[3494.40 --> 3495.16] you who teach others, -[3495.24 --> 3496.10] do you not teach yourselves? -[3496.42 --> 3497.58] You who preach against stealing, -[3497.58 --> 3498.28] do you not steal? -[3498.34 --> 3499.32] And then he goes right on -[3499.32 --> 3500.42] with this line of questioning. -[3500.58 --> 3500.78] He says, -[3501.44 --> 3502.32] you say that people -[3502.32 --> 3503.72] should not commit adultery. -[3503.90 --> 3505.20] Do you commit adultery? -[3505.54 --> 3507.00] You who abhor idols, -[3507.44 --> 3508.80] do you rob temples? -[3509.80 --> 3511.44] Now that's a really interesting phrase. -[3512.22 --> 3513.08] Rob temples. -[3513.20 --> 3514.36] And so I want to dig into that -[3514.36 --> 3514.74] for a minute. -[3515.06 --> 3517.80] Because Paul is probably -[3517.80 --> 3519.76] not literally talking about -[3519.76 --> 3522.64] people going into temples -[3522.64 --> 3524.74] and stealing the statues -[3524.74 --> 3525.64] for the gold -[3525.64 --> 3526.54] that they're made of -[3526.54 --> 3527.44] or the precious metal -[3527.44 --> 3528.56] that they're made of -[3528.56 --> 3529.28] or whatever -[3529.28 --> 3530.58] for that value. -[3530.82 --> 3532.88] He's probably using that phrase -[3532.88 --> 3534.06] in a figurative way. -[3535.02 --> 3535.16] Right? -[3535.22 --> 3536.14] It's like he's saying, -[3536.56 --> 3537.92] you may not bow down -[3537.92 --> 3538.92] to these idols -[3538.92 --> 3540.54] or to this statue, -[3540.54 --> 3542.06] but you are actually -[3542.06 --> 3543.64] guilty of worshiping -[3543.64 --> 3544.76] the idol -[3544.76 --> 3545.56] or the idea -[3545.56 --> 3546.36] that's underneath -[3546.36 --> 3547.36] the statue -[3547.36 --> 3548.94] or behind the surface -[3548.94 --> 3549.86] of the statue. -[3549.98 --> 3550.86] That is the meaning -[3550.86 --> 3552.00] that it represents. -[3553.48 --> 3553.66] Right? -[3553.68 --> 3554.28] Let's say that you, -[3554.28 --> 3556.94] just to take anything -[3556.94 --> 3558.72] in your life -[3558.72 --> 3560.04] and you give it -[3560.04 --> 3561.52] ultimate purpose -[3561.52 --> 3563.12] or you find in it -[3563.12 --> 3564.32] your meaning. -[3565.12 --> 3565.24] Right? -[3565.24 --> 3567.24] If you look for power -[3567.24 --> 3567.90] or comfort -[3567.90 --> 3568.84] to that thing -[3568.84 --> 3570.68] or if you look for peace -[3570.68 --> 3572.00] to that job -[3572.00 --> 3573.56] or if you look for wholeness -[3573.56 --> 3574.86] in that person -[3574.86 --> 3576.12] or if you look for safety -[3576.12 --> 3577.12] and pleasure -[3577.12 --> 3578.58] in your accomplishments. -[3578.82 --> 3578.92] Right? -[3578.92 --> 3580.70] If you look to that thing -[3580.70 --> 3582.52] more than you look to God, -[3583.02 --> 3585.62] you are making an idol of it -[3585.62 --> 3586.72] and you have violated -[3586.72 --> 3587.60] this command -[3587.60 --> 3589.10] against idolatry -[3589.10 --> 3590.32] just as much -[3590.32 --> 3591.02] as the person -[3591.02 --> 3592.34] who physically bows -[3592.34 --> 3594.26] to the statue of wood -[3594.26 --> 3595.14] or gold -[3595.14 --> 3596.12] or whatever it may be -[3596.12 --> 3596.82] to the statues -[3596.82 --> 3597.12] that, -[3597.48 --> 3598.08] what does Paul say, -[3598.16 --> 3599.24] you abhor. -[3600.94 --> 3601.64] In fact, -[3601.72 --> 3602.70] for so many of us -[3602.70 --> 3603.54] in the world today -[3603.54 --> 3604.54] and in the church -[3604.54 --> 3605.76] perhaps even today, -[3607.02 --> 3608.30] Christian moralism -[3608.30 --> 3610.46] is that new statue, -[3611.34 --> 3612.06] is that idol. -[3613.26 --> 3614.26] The new idol -[3614.26 --> 3616.76] is religion -[3616.76 --> 3619.40] and you use it -[3619.40 --> 3620.34] to cover up -[3620.34 --> 3622.10] your dead heart. -[3622.82 --> 3623.70] You use it -[3623.70 --> 3624.42] to ignore -[3624.42 --> 3626.24] your stuffed up ears -[3626.24 --> 3627.46] so that you can't hear -[3627.46 --> 3629.04] the living word of God. -[3629.32 --> 3629.98] You pretend -[3629.98 --> 3632.18] because it looks good -[3632.18 --> 3633.38] on the outside, -[3633.80 --> 3634.78] you must be good -[3634.78 --> 3636.02] on the inside. -[3637.46 --> 3637.80] And again, -[3637.80 --> 3638.98] verse 21 to 23, -[3639.10 --> 3640.20] Paul is gathering us -[3640.20 --> 3641.22] all up -[3641.22 --> 3642.80] and he's showing us, -[3643.26 --> 3644.34] myself included, -[3644.72 --> 3647.26] that we are all hypocrites. -[3648.82 --> 3649.24] Now, -[3649.28 --> 3650.42] I've already admitted it, -[3650.66 --> 3650.88] right, -[3650.96 --> 3652.92] but I'm a hypocrite -[3652.92 --> 3655.18] and I know -[3655.18 --> 3656.04] that you, -[3656.26 --> 3657.08] every one of you, -[3657.76 --> 3658.98] are hypocrites. -[3658.98 --> 3661.02] and look, -[3661.30 --> 3662.10] at verse 24, -[3662.10 --> 3665.00] the price of our hypocrisy, -[3665.86 --> 3666.60] as it is written, -[3666.90 --> 3667.54] God's name -[3667.54 --> 3668.68] is being blasphemed -[3668.68 --> 3669.86] among the Gentiles -[3669.86 --> 3671.16] because of you. -[3672.90 --> 3673.00] Right, -[3673.06 --> 3673.60] hypocrites -[3673.60 --> 3674.72] are the reason -[3674.72 --> 3675.86] why so many people -[3675.86 --> 3677.24] don't take your faith -[3677.24 --> 3678.16] seriously -[3678.16 --> 3679.74] or don't take you seriously -[3679.74 --> 3681.28] when you talk about faith. -[3682.00 --> 3682.86] It's hypocrites -[3682.86 --> 3683.60] in the church -[3683.60 --> 3684.62] that is the reason -[3684.62 --> 3685.74] why so many people -[3685.74 --> 3686.94] are deconstructing -[3686.94 --> 3687.38] their faith -[3687.38 --> 3688.48] and walking away -[3688.48 --> 3689.26] from the church -[3689.26 --> 3690.22] that they grew up in. -[3691.02 --> 3691.80] And honestly, -[3691.88 --> 3692.58] I get it. -[3694.06 --> 3694.54] Right, -[3694.68 --> 3695.66] you and me, -[3696.16 --> 3696.94] on our own, -[3697.34 --> 3698.06] we give God -[3698.06 --> 3698.66] a bad name. -[3699.88 --> 3701.06] And when we pretend -[3701.06 --> 3701.86] like we've got it -[3701.86 --> 3702.68] all figured out -[3702.68 --> 3703.78] or when we pretend -[3703.78 --> 3704.50] like we have -[3704.50 --> 3705.24] all the answers -[3705.24 --> 3706.02] or when we pretend -[3706.02 --> 3706.96] like we don't have -[3706.96 --> 3707.66] questions -[3707.66 --> 3708.80] or that we don't struggle, -[3709.06 --> 3709.74] when we pretend -[3709.74 --> 3710.64] that there are no doubts -[3710.64 --> 3711.34] to our faith, -[3711.34 --> 3712.80] we aren't helping -[3712.80 --> 3714.38] those who are struggling. -[3715.30 --> 3716.86] We're just underscoring -[3716.86 --> 3718.08] our own hypocrisy. -[3727.22 --> 3728.76] But can I also say, -[3729.76 --> 3732.84] can I also say -[3732.84 --> 3733.86] that my hypocrisy, -[3735.08 --> 3736.80] that my fickle heart, -[3736.80 --> 3738.28] my doubts, -[3738.78 --> 3741.00] aren't big enough -[3741.00 --> 3742.34] or powerful enough -[3742.34 --> 3744.24] to change the truth -[3744.24 --> 3745.24] of God's word. -[3746.46 --> 3747.76] That even when -[3747.76 --> 3748.98] my faith fails, -[3749.16 --> 3751.24] even when my morality fails, -[3751.40 --> 3752.70] even when I don't live -[3752.70 --> 3753.66] as the new creation -[3753.66 --> 3754.92] that I am called -[3754.92 --> 3756.78] and recreated to be, -[3756.92 --> 3758.00] regenerated to be, -[3758.10 --> 3759.48] declared by God -[3759.48 --> 3760.78] in grace to be, -[3761.18 --> 3762.06] even when I don't live -[3762.06 --> 3762.44] into that, -[3762.60 --> 3763.30] even then, -[3763.58 --> 3765.78] God is good. -[3765.78 --> 3767.84] God's truth -[3767.84 --> 3768.86] is not dependent -[3768.86 --> 3770.34] upon my ability -[3770.34 --> 3771.36] to live it. -[3772.06 --> 3773.56] The gospel is true -[3773.56 --> 3775.34] even if I haven't -[3775.34 --> 3776.80] been fully transformed -[3776.80 --> 3777.98] by it. -[3779.88 --> 3780.52] And so, -[3781.16 --> 3782.72] if you -[3782.72 --> 3785.12] are doubting God -[3785.12 --> 3787.04] because of your -[3787.04 --> 3788.48] particular experience -[3788.48 --> 3789.40] of Christians, -[3790.72 --> 3792.86] can I just say -[3792.86 --> 3795.62] that's not entirely fair. -[3795.78 --> 3798.36] Now, -[3798.42 --> 3798.88] I own -[3798.88 --> 3800.16] that I'm a hypocrite -[3800.16 --> 3802.18] and so are we all. -[3802.58 --> 3803.42] And I understand -[3803.42 --> 3804.66] that if you have been hurt -[3804.66 --> 3805.28] by the church -[3805.28 --> 3805.96] in the past, -[3806.16 --> 3807.08] if you have been hurt -[3807.08 --> 3807.90] by Christians, -[3808.34 --> 3810.12] and that's something -[3810.12 --> 3810.88] that will, -[3811.10 --> 3812.32] that has to -[3812.32 --> 3814.28] color and determine -[3814.28 --> 3815.00] your opinion -[3815.00 --> 3815.92] and your perspective -[3815.92 --> 3817.40] because that experience -[3817.40 --> 3818.60] is real. -[3818.68 --> 3819.52] And I don't want to minimize -[3819.52 --> 3821.00] that real experience, -[3821.44 --> 3821.68] right? -[3821.68 --> 3823.00] but can I just say -[3823.00 --> 3825.18] I'm sorry. -[3827.12 --> 3827.32] Right? -[3827.32 --> 3828.28] My heart breaks -[3828.28 --> 3830.22] for you -[3830.22 --> 3831.64] who are in that struggle, -[3832.14 --> 3833.14] for you who have faced -[3833.14 --> 3834.06] that kind of trauma -[3834.06 --> 3835.42] and that kind of trial. -[3835.92 --> 3837.06] And I want to be there -[3837.06 --> 3837.80] to enter into -[3837.80 --> 3838.62] that dark night -[3838.62 --> 3839.42] of the soul -[3839.42 --> 3839.82] with you -[3839.82 --> 3840.76] or whatever that might -[3840.76 --> 3841.62] look like, -[3841.70 --> 3841.84] right? -[3841.84 --> 3842.80] We have people -[3842.80 --> 3843.44] who are here -[3843.44 --> 3844.08] who want to pray -[3844.08 --> 3844.64] with you -[3844.64 --> 3845.46] through that -[3845.46 --> 3846.22] and you can find them. -[3846.30 --> 3847.52] There's yellow name tags -[3847.52 --> 3847.98] throughout, -[3848.54 --> 3848.74] right? -[3848.74 --> 3849.46] You can find them -[3849.46 --> 3850.18] and they will pray -[3850.18 --> 3850.50] with you. -[3850.56 --> 3851.60] We want to be with you -[3851.60 --> 3852.46] but please, -[3852.98 --> 3853.70] please -[3853.70 --> 3856.38] separate the truth -[3856.38 --> 3857.64] of who God is -[3857.64 --> 3859.98] from my moral failures. -[3861.48 --> 3863.06] I will disappoint you. -[3863.96 --> 3865.22] I promise you that. -[3866.68 --> 3867.88] He will not. -[3869.96 --> 3872.12] Don't let my disappointing you -[3872.12 --> 3874.56] determine who God is for you. -[3875.24 --> 3875.34] Right? -[3875.36 --> 3876.80] It's not fair to you -[3876.80 --> 3878.54] if you blame God -[3878.54 --> 3879.56] for my failings -[3879.56 --> 3882.42] because then you're missing him. -[3885.34 --> 3885.50] Now, -[3887.02 --> 3891.24] I confessed my hypocrisy -[3891.24 --> 3892.58] and maybe you could share -[3892.58 --> 3894.56] in that confession -[3894.56 --> 3897.92] but the difficulty -[3897.92 --> 3899.10] with hypocrisy -[3899.10 --> 3900.26] is that most of us -[3900.26 --> 3901.26] are blind to it. -[3902.78 --> 3903.58] And so how do we know -[3903.58 --> 3905.14] if we're hiding hypocrisy -[3905.14 --> 3906.42] in your heart? -[3906.42 --> 3907.32] And let me underscore again -[3907.32 --> 3907.94] the purpose -[3907.94 --> 3909.44] and the importance -[3909.44 --> 3910.88] of asking that question -[3910.88 --> 3911.94] because Paul says -[3911.94 --> 3913.58] God's name is being blasphemed -[3913.58 --> 3914.60] among the Gentiles -[3914.60 --> 3915.38] because of you -[3915.38 --> 3916.64] and I, for one, -[3916.74 --> 3917.90] don't want that to happen. -[3919.74 --> 3921.88] A life of Christian moralism -[3921.88 --> 3924.00] will always be distasteful -[3924.00 --> 3925.16] to those outside -[3925.16 --> 3926.48] and rightfully so -[3926.48 --> 3927.84] because this person -[3927.84 --> 3929.52] appears smug -[3929.52 --> 3931.76] because after all, -[3932.48 --> 3933.64] well, I really am a good person. -[3933.64 --> 3937.66] this kind of person -[3937.66 --> 3938.54] and here's how you begin -[3938.54 --> 3939.96] to know if this is your own heart, -[3940.04 --> 3941.00] this kind of person -[3941.00 --> 3943.04] will be overly sensitive -[3943.04 --> 3945.10] when you call them out -[3945.10 --> 3946.06] on their sin -[3946.06 --> 3947.86] or when you hold them accountable -[3947.86 --> 3949.36] to their hypocrisy. -[3950.48 --> 3951.20] And so, -[3951.34 --> 3952.76] if you get overly defensive -[3952.76 --> 3954.86] when someone calls you out -[3954.86 --> 3955.72] on your sin, -[3956.98 --> 3957.72] check your heart -[3957.72 --> 3960.88] because maybe there's hypocrisy there. -[3962.62 --> 3963.06] Right? -[3963.10 --> 3964.30] This kind of person -[3964.30 --> 3965.46] who's blind -[3965.46 --> 3966.48] to their own hypocrisy -[3966.48 --> 3968.08] is going to be judgmental -[3968.08 --> 3968.68] of others -[3968.68 --> 3969.80] because they need -[3969.80 --> 3971.08] to find other people -[3971.08 --> 3972.30] who are worse than them -[3972.30 --> 3973.76] in order to continue thinking -[3973.76 --> 3975.20] that they are actually good enough. -[3975.76 --> 3976.40] And so, -[3976.46 --> 3977.50] they will point out the faults -[3977.50 --> 3979.48] of others around them. -[3980.08 --> 3981.18] And this kind of person -[3981.18 --> 3982.50] is going to live -[3982.50 --> 3983.20] in a state -[3983.20 --> 3985.08] of spiritual anxiety -[3985.08 --> 3987.42] because they will always -[3987.42 --> 3987.98] be worried -[3987.98 --> 3988.92] about whether or not -[3988.92 --> 3990.52] they have done enough, -[3990.72 --> 3991.18] whether or not -[3991.18 --> 3992.88] they have been good enough. -[3993.78 --> 3994.46] Can I tell you, -[3995.42 --> 3995.82] in my, -[3997.74 --> 3998.10] I don't know, -[3998.14 --> 3999.14] how long have I been a pastor? -[3999.28 --> 4000.50] 12, 13 years? -[4001.46 --> 4004.04] In my 13 years -[4004.04 --> 4005.68] of pastoring churches, -[4006.72 --> 4007.12] there's, -[4007.20 --> 4009.94] there's one circumstance -[4009.94 --> 4011.48] of providing pastoral care -[4011.48 --> 4013.24] that I will always remember. -[4014.14 --> 4014.54] And it's not -[4014.54 --> 4015.40] while I was serving here, -[4015.48 --> 4016.16] so don't look around -[4016.16 --> 4016.96] for who it might be. -[4017.94 --> 4019.34] But I was sitting -[4019.34 --> 4020.56] at the deathbed -[4020.56 --> 4022.24] of a 96-year-old -[4022.24 --> 4024.60] saint of the church. -[4025.76 --> 4026.58] She had been -[4026.58 --> 4028.06] an active participant -[4028.06 --> 4029.36] in the life of the church -[4029.36 --> 4031.52] her entire life. -[4031.66 --> 4032.86] And when we sat down, -[4032.92 --> 4033.72] when I sat down -[4033.72 --> 4034.42] beside her, -[4034.74 --> 4035.94] 96 years old, -[4036.22 --> 4036.72] she said, -[4036.86 --> 4037.24] Pastor, -[4037.80 --> 4039.22] I'm scared to die -[4039.22 --> 4040.16] because I don't know -[4040.16 --> 4041.50] if I have been good enough. -[4046.54 --> 4048.10] She held that anxiety -[4048.10 --> 4050.12] in her heart -[4050.12 --> 4051.40] even though -[4051.40 --> 4052.98] she had been around -[4052.98 --> 4054.58] this gospel truth -[4054.58 --> 4054.98] of Jesus -[4054.98 --> 4056.14] her entire life. -[4056.68 --> 4057.92] That's how deep -[4057.92 --> 4058.72] these things -[4058.72 --> 4060.40] can work in us -[4060.40 --> 4062.32] and through us. -[4064.34 --> 4065.44] And so let's gather -[4065.44 --> 4066.08] each other up. -[4066.58 --> 4067.78] Let's look at our own hearts. -[4067.78 --> 4068.86] Again, -[4069.04 --> 4070.64] I love the way -[4070.64 --> 4071.90] that Tim Keller -[4071.90 --> 4073.38] summarizes Paul's argument. -[4073.52 --> 4073.92] He says, -[4074.02 --> 4074.62] and he connects us -[4074.62 --> 4075.92] back to Genesis 12 again -[4075.92 --> 4078.14] and God's promise -[4078.14 --> 4078.62] to Abraham. -[4079.42 --> 4080.16] Paul is saying -[4080.16 --> 4080.74] to the Jews, -[4081.50 --> 4082.56] you were called -[4082.56 --> 4083.36] to be a light -[4083.36 --> 4083.92] to the world. -[4084.54 --> 4085.86] You think of yourselves -[4085.86 --> 4086.82] as bringing light -[4086.82 --> 4087.52] to those who are -[4087.52 --> 4088.04] in darkness -[4088.04 --> 4089.38] and yet the world -[4089.38 --> 4090.62] finds your religion -[4090.62 --> 4092.20] totally unattractive. -[4093.30 --> 4094.46] Don't you see -[4094.46 --> 4095.36] that therefore -[4095.36 --> 4096.80] you must have -[4096.80 --> 4097.78] misunderstood it. -[4101.22 --> 4102.40] It's so easy -[4102.40 --> 4103.06] for us -[4103.06 --> 4104.94] to look at a world -[4104.94 --> 4105.42] especially -[4105.42 --> 4106.40] in a time -[4106.40 --> 4106.84] and an age -[4106.84 --> 4107.62] that many call -[4107.62 --> 4108.28] post-Christian -[4108.28 --> 4109.26] or post-Christendom -[4109.26 --> 4110.00] and go, -[4110.46 --> 4111.36] they just don't -[4111.36 --> 4112.04] get it. -[4112.12 --> 4112.56] The world -[4112.56 --> 4114.10] doesn't understand. -[4115.10 --> 4115.94] Turn that question -[4115.94 --> 4116.80] back on yourself. -[4116.80 --> 4123.62] Have we forgotten -[4123.62 --> 4125.48] to make the gospel -[4125.48 --> 4126.18] attractive -[4126.18 --> 4127.24] because we've been -[4127.24 --> 4127.96] stuck -[4127.96 --> 4130.04] in our hypocrisy -[4130.04 --> 4131.52] and our moralism? -[4132.30 --> 4133.22] Do you understand? -[4133.66 --> 4134.96] Pose the same question -[4134.96 --> 4135.46] to ourselves. -[4135.58 --> 4136.86] Is our community, -[4137.30 --> 4138.42] our church community -[4138.42 --> 4139.36] and you -[4139.36 --> 4140.36] as individuals -[4140.36 --> 4141.30] in your life -[4141.30 --> 4141.96] and in your work -[4141.96 --> 4142.50] and school -[4142.50 --> 4143.38] and in sports, -[4143.66 --> 4144.88] are you attractive -[4144.88 --> 4146.68] for the faith? -[4146.82 --> 4147.50] Do you show -[4147.50 --> 4148.22] humility -[4148.22 --> 4149.46] for Jesus? -[4149.70 --> 4150.74] And can I just say -[4150.74 --> 4151.88] that God has been -[4151.88 --> 4152.40] doing something -[4152.40 --> 4153.00] in our midst -[4153.00 --> 4154.00] here at Emmanuel -[4154.00 --> 4154.94] for some time -[4154.94 --> 4155.92] and one of the -[4155.92 --> 4156.64] exciting things -[4156.64 --> 4157.06] that I have -[4157.06 --> 4157.82] as part of my job -[4157.82 --> 4158.54] is I get to talk -[4158.54 --> 4159.06] to the people -[4159.06 --> 4159.70] who are visiting -[4159.70 --> 4160.14] and who are -[4160.14 --> 4160.86] checking us out -[4160.86 --> 4161.68] for the first time -[4161.68 --> 4162.04] or who are -[4162.04 --> 4163.50] interested in membership -[4163.50 --> 4164.44] and over and over -[4164.44 --> 4165.12] and over again. -[4165.22 --> 4165.80] One of the things -[4165.80 --> 4167.30] I hear about us -[4167.30 --> 4168.92] is that we have -[4168.92 --> 4170.20] a meaningful -[4170.20 --> 4171.12] and authentic -[4171.12 --> 4171.92] community -[4171.92 --> 4172.68] that people -[4172.68 --> 4173.90] want to have -[4173.90 --> 4175.32] something that we have. -[4175.38 --> 4176.22] They can't quite name it. -[4176.28 --> 4177.12] They can't quite place it -[4177.12 --> 4178.40] but there's a draw here -[4178.40 --> 4179.36] and so let me say -[4179.36 --> 4180.88] yes, we are doing this. -[4181.20 --> 4181.84] We get this. -[4181.94 --> 4183.26] We understand some of this -[4183.26 --> 4186.06] but is there more? -[4187.96 --> 4188.82] Is there more? -[4190.66 --> 4192.46] Can you show grace -[4192.46 --> 4194.48] in the face of failure? -[4195.20 --> 4196.48] Can you be non-anxious -[4196.48 --> 4197.86] in trying times? -[4198.18 --> 4198.80] Are we living -[4198.80 --> 4199.98] as signposts -[4199.98 --> 4200.48] of the beauty -[4200.48 --> 4201.16] of the gospel -[4201.16 --> 4202.12] and revealing -[4202.12 --> 4203.18] the kingdom come -[4203.18 --> 4204.62] in the world -[4204.62 --> 4205.50] and revealing -[4205.50 --> 4206.44] the kingdom come? -[4207.26 --> 4207.86] Or -[4207.86 --> 4209.78] in your life -[4209.78 --> 4211.60] and in our community -[4211.60 --> 4212.08] together -[4212.08 --> 4213.80] are we holding up -[4213.80 --> 4214.30] a sign -[4214.30 --> 4215.32] that says -[4215.32 --> 4216.04] do not enter -[4216.04 --> 4218.08] hazardous material? -[4221.30 --> 4222.16] The moralism -[4222.16 --> 4223.36] offers only -[4223.36 --> 4224.04] what some -[4224.04 --> 4224.82] have called -[4224.82 --> 4225.64] dead -[4225.64 --> 4227.12] orthodoxy. -[4227.12 --> 4229.34] And it's only -[4229.34 --> 4230.00] the gospel -[4230.00 --> 4230.56] of Jesus -[4230.56 --> 4231.44] that can transform -[4231.44 --> 4232.04] people -[4232.04 --> 4234.18] to the kinds -[4234.18 --> 4234.80] of people -[4234.80 --> 4235.42] that God -[4235.42 --> 4236.46] has designed us -[4236.46 --> 4237.52] and called us -[4237.52 --> 4237.90] to be. -[4238.66 --> 4238.98] And in fact -[4238.98 --> 4240.06] it's this idea -[4240.06 --> 4240.72] of dead -[4240.72 --> 4241.80] orthodoxy -[4241.80 --> 4242.82] that Paul finishes -[4242.82 --> 4244.44] with in verse 25 -[4244.44 --> 4245.34] to the end. -[4246.16 --> 4246.32] Now -[4246.32 --> 4247.60] previously -[4247.60 --> 4248.48] in this series -[4248.48 --> 4249.10] on Romans -[4249.10 --> 4249.96] we have had -[4249.96 --> 4251.20] purpose -[4251.20 --> 4253.14] to call out -[4253.14 --> 4254.56] progressive Christians -[4254.56 --> 4255.56] and the way -[4255.56 --> 4256.10] that progressive -[4256.10 --> 4256.54] Christians -[4256.54 --> 4257.12] have adjusted -[4257.12 --> 4257.66] the teaching -[4257.66 --> 4258.50] of the Bible -[4258.50 --> 4258.84] the way -[4258.84 --> 4259.50] that some -[4259.50 --> 4259.84] progressive -[4259.84 --> 4260.24] Christians -[4260.24 --> 4261.08] have licensed -[4261.08 --> 4262.18] their own -[4262.18 --> 4262.70] or others -[4262.70 --> 4263.40] immorality. -[4264.08 --> 4264.84] But here's -[4264.84 --> 4265.18] what I need -[4265.18 --> 4265.58] you to hear -[4265.58 --> 4266.32] because now -[4266.32 --> 4267.34] Paul is talking -[4267.34 --> 4267.94] to you -[4267.94 --> 4268.62] conservative -[4268.62 --> 4270.14] Christians. -[4270.88 --> 4271.60] For those -[4271.60 --> 4271.80] of you -[4271.80 --> 4272.08] who are -[4272.08 --> 4273.12] traditionalists -[4273.12 --> 4273.98] on a lot -[4273.98 --> 4274.72] of these things -[4274.72 --> 4275.64] for those -[4275.64 --> 4275.88] of you -[4275.88 --> 4276.14] who have -[4276.14 --> 4276.50] what we've -[4276.50 --> 4277.04] come to call -[4277.04 --> 4277.74] in western -[4277.74 --> 4278.26] politics -[4278.26 --> 4279.50] social conservatives -[4279.50 --> 4280.90] Paul is -[4280.90 --> 4281.58] calling you out. -[4281.58 --> 4284.12] verse 25 -[4284.12 --> 4284.76] he shifts -[4284.76 --> 4285.08] to an -[4285.08 --> 4285.58] illustration -[4285.58 --> 4286.62] from circumcision. -[4287.50 --> 4287.64] Now -[4287.64 --> 4288.98] particularly -[4288.98 --> 4289.70] for the young -[4289.70 --> 4290.34] ones among you -[4290.34 --> 4290.98] if you don't -[4290.98 --> 4291.34] know what -[4291.34 --> 4292.32] circumcision is -[4292.32 --> 4293.48] I'm going to -[4293.48 --> 4293.88] let you talk -[4293.88 --> 4294.36] to your parents. -[4296.22 --> 4297.16] They can answer -[4297.16 --> 4297.68] that question -[4297.68 --> 4298.06] for you. -[4298.80 --> 4299.56] What I'm going -[4299.56 --> 4299.94] to say -[4299.94 --> 4300.78] for us here -[4300.78 --> 4301.88] is that -[4301.88 --> 4302.42] circumcision -[4302.42 --> 4303.34] is a symbol -[4303.34 --> 4304.20] it's a physical -[4304.20 --> 4304.70] symbol -[4304.70 --> 4305.86] that was used -[4305.86 --> 4306.86] to mark out -[4306.86 --> 4307.90] and identify -[4307.90 --> 4309.00] the people -[4309.00 --> 4309.60] of Israel -[4309.60 --> 4310.12] the Jewish -[4310.12 --> 4310.48] people. -[4310.48 --> 4311.98] And circumcision -[4311.98 --> 4312.84] had become -[4312.84 --> 4313.68] the basis -[4313.68 --> 4314.52] for their -[4314.52 --> 4315.12] cultural -[4315.12 --> 4316.12] identity -[4316.12 --> 4317.66] and the basis -[4317.66 --> 4319.44] as the basis -[4319.44 --> 4319.82] for their -[4319.82 --> 4320.74] cultural identity -[4320.74 --> 4322.04] it had become -[4322.04 --> 4322.92] the source -[4322.92 --> 4323.98] of their -[4323.98 --> 4324.74] own -[4324.74 --> 4325.66] righteousness. -[4327.02 --> 4327.80] Their relationship -[4327.80 --> 4328.56] to God -[4328.56 --> 4329.62] became based -[4329.62 --> 4330.54] on this -[4330.54 --> 4331.30] symbol -[4331.30 --> 4331.98] on whether -[4331.98 --> 4332.38] or not -[4332.38 --> 4332.94] you bore -[4332.94 --> 4334.34] this marker. -[4335.34 --> 4335.60] And again -[4335.60 --> 4336.06] just like -[4336.06 --> 4336.48] the previous -[4336.48 --> 4337.08] section -[4337.08 --> 4337.78] perhaps -[4337.78 --> 4338.62] many of us -[4338.62 --> 4339.36] miss this -[4339.36 --> 4340.58] as an illustration -[4340.58 --> 4341.04] and so -[4341.04 --> 4341.56] I'm going -[4341.56 --> 4341.98] to change -[4341.98 --> 4342.08] it. -[4342.14 --> 4342.26] I'm going -[4342.26 --> 4342.72] to update -[4342.72 --> 4343.18] it again -[4343.18 --> 4344.20] for Christians -[4344.20 --> 4344.60] and for -[4344.60 --> 4345.06] Christianity -[4345.06 --> 4345.48] so I'm going -[4345.48 --> 4346.08] to paraphrase -[4346.08 --> 4346.54] it like we -[4346.54 --> 4346.86] did at the -[4346.86 --> 4347.12] beginning. -[4348.14 --> 4348.52] So here -[4348.52 --> 4349.10] is the -[4349.10 --> 4349.30] same -[4349.30 --> 4349.78] illustration. -[4351.88 --> 4352.48] So what -[4352.48 --> 4353.26] if you -[4353.26 --> 4353.56] have been -[4353.56 --> 4353.88] baptized? -[4355.18 --> 4355.70] So what -[4355.70 --> 4356.06] if you -[4356.06 --> 4356.54] have made -[4356.54 --> 4357.06] profession -[4357.06 --> 4357.66] of faith? -[4358.10 --> 4358.68] So what -[4358.68 --> 4359.04] if you -[4359.04 --> 4359.30] have been -[4359.30 --> 4359.68] a church -[4359.68 --> 4360.02] member -[4360.02 --> 4360.94] your entire -[4360.94 --> 4361.34] life? -[4361.50 --> 4362.28] This only -[4362.28 --> 4362.92] counts for -[4362.92 --> 4363.42] anything -[4363.42 --> 4363.98] if there -[4363.98 --> 4364.34] has been -[4364.34 --> 4365.36] deep change -[4365.36 --> 4366.34] in your life. -[4366.40 --> 4366.72] If your -[4366.72 --> 4367.14] heart -[4367.14 --> 4367.78] has been -[4367.78 --> 4368.10] truly -[4368.10 --> 4368.62] affected? -[4370.24 --> 4371.04] Don't you -[4371.04 --> 4371.64] know that -[4371.64 --> 4372.10] you are -[4372.10 --> 4372.86] not a -[4372.86 --> 4373.22] Christian -[4373.22 --> 4373.84] if you -[4373.84 --> 4374.44] are only -[4374.44 --> 4375.44] living as -[4375.44 --> 4375.76] one -[4375.76 --> 4376.52] externally? -[4377.60 --> 4378.32] That real -[4378.32 --> 4378.86] Christianity -[4378.86 --> 4379.54] is not about -[4379.54 --> 4380.48] having confidence -[4380.48 --> 4381.02] in the things -[4381.02 --> 4382.02] outside of -[4382.02 --> 4383.00] you to -[4383.00 --> 4383.64] know and -[4383.64 --> 4384.20] to be a -[4384.20 --> 4384.54] Christian -[4384.54 --> 4385.22] but it -[4385.22 --> 4386.26] is from -[4386.26 --> 4386.92] the inside. -[4388.08 --> 4388.72] What really -[4388.72 --> 4389.42] matters is -[4389.42 --> 4389.88] inner -[4389.88 --> 4390.70] baptism, -[4391.40 --> 4391.64] inner -[4391.64 --> 4392.18] profession -[4392.18 --> 4392.76] of faith, -[4392.98 --> 4393.28] inner -[4393.28 --> 4393.94] heart -[4393.94 --> 4394.62] membership -[4394.62 --> 4395.50] in God's -[4395.50 --> 4396.74] people and -[4396.74 --> 4397.50] that inner -[4397.50 --> 4398.76] truth is a -[4398.76 --> 4399.50] supernatural -[4399.50 --> 4400.48] work. -[4400.58 --> 4400.96] It is a -[4400.96 --> 4401.62] work of -[4401.62 --> 4403.32] God not -[4403.32 --> 4404.22] a human -[4404.22 --> 4405.14] work. -[4405.84 --> 4406.56] Again Keller -[4406.56 --> 4407.16] is so good -[4407.16 --> 4407.60] on this he -[4407.60 --> 4408.04] hits the nail -[4408.04 --> 4408.46] right on the -[4408.46 --> 4408.96] head when he -[4408.96 --> 4410.40] says it -[4410.40 --> 4411.06] is possible -[4411.06 --> 4411.72] to trust -[4411.72 --> 4412.70] in Christianity -[4412.70 --> 4414.60] rather than -[4414.60 --> 4415.80] in Christ. -[4418.20 --> 4418.94] That's dead -[4418.94 --> 4419.74] orthodoxy. -[4422.82 --> 4422.96] Right? -[4422.96 --> 4425.14] You believe -[4425.14 --> 4426.40] the basic -[4426.40 --> 4427.50] doctrines of -[4427.50 --> 4428.28] scripture. -[4428.66 --> 4429.42] You assent -[4429.42 --> 4430.26] intellectually -[4430.26 --> 4431.30] to them -[4431.30 --> 4431.62] but it -[4431.62 --> 4432.18] makes no -[4432.18 --> 4432.86] difference -[4432.86 --> 4434.12] inside. -[4435.24 --> 4436.02] There's an -[4436.02 --> 4436.48] intellectual -[4436.48 --> 4437.34] grasp of -[4437.34 --> 4437.94] the gospel -[4437.94 --> 4438.76] but there's -[4438.76 --> 4439.26] no internal -[4439.26 --> 4440.04] transformation. -[4442.04 --> 4442.34] Dead -[4442.34 --> 4443.28] orthodoxy -[4443.28 --> 4444.66] makes church -[4444.66 --> 4445.34] and church -[4445.34 --> 4446.12] participation -[4446.12 --> 4447.80] into a -[4447.80 --> 4448.68] safety net -[4448.68 --> 4449.44] for people -[4449.44 --> 4450.12] who think -[4450.12 --> 4450.58] they are -[4450.58 --> 4451.04] Christian. -[4453.38 --> 4453.94] Dead -[4453.94 --> 4454.72] orthodoxy -[4454.72 --> 4455.06] is going -[4455.06 --> 4455.46] to look -[4455.46 --> 4456.18] like producing -[4456.18 --> 4457.00] a list -[4457.00 --> 4457.78] of rules -[4457.78 --> 4458.56] and a list -[4458.56 --> 4459.04] of ways -[4459.04 --> 4459.48] of being -[4459.48 --> 4459.80] in the -[4459.80 --> 4460.12] world -[4460.12 --> 4460.94] and then -[4460.94 --> 4461.30] it's going -[4461.30 --> 4461.68] to push -[4461.68 --> 4462.20] that list -[4462.20 --> 4462.70] on everyone -[4462.70 --> 4463.18] else in -[4463.18 --> 4463.74] society. -[4465.82 --> 4466.38] Dead -[4466.38 --> 4467.12] orthodoxy -[4467.12 --> 4467.48] is going -[4467.48 --> 4467.82] to look -[4467.82 --> 4469.08] like angrily -[4469.08 --> 4469.88] requiring -[4469.88 --> 4470.72] theological -[4470.72 --> 4471.60] correctness -[4471.60 --> 4472.42] and precision -[4472.42 --> 4473.04] and then -[4473.04 --> 4473.44] debating -[4473.44 --> 4473.94] everyone -[4473.94 --> 4474.70] around you -[4474.70 --> 4475.14] in order -[4475.14 --> 4475.72] to prove -[4475.72 --> 4476.12] that you -[4476.12 --> 4476.28] are -[4476.28 --> 4476.70] correct. -[4479.18 --> 4480.28] But also -[4480.28 --> 4481.96] a dead -[4481.96 --> 4482.72] orthodoxy -[4482.72 --> 4482.94] is going -[4482.94 --> 4483.12] to do -[4483.12 --> 4483.52] the same -[4483.52 --> 4483.94] thing -[4483.94 --> 4484.48] on the -[4484.48 --> 4484.64] other -[4484.64 --> 4485.02] side. -[4485.86 --> 4486.16] A dead -[4486.16 --> 4486.80] orthodoxy -[4486.80 --> 4487.02] is going -[4487.02 --> 4487.56] to put -[4487.56 --> 4488.20] a huge -[4488.20 --> 4488.76] emphasis -[4488.76 --> 4489.90] on a -[4489.90 --> 4490.70] particular -[4490.70 --> 4491.86] emotional -[4491.86 --> 4492.86] experience -[4492.86 --> 4493.74] in church -[4493.74 --> 4494.10] or a -[4494.10 --> 4494.58] dramatic -[4494.58 --> 4495.80] experience -[4495.80 --> 4496.70] in worship -[4496.70 --> 4498.14] and displaying -[4498.14 --> 4498.98] your feelings -[4498.98 --> 4499.72] in a particular -[4499.72 --> 4500.42] way because -[4500.42 --> 4500.90] when you get -[4500.90 --> 4501.64] your emotions -[4501.64 --> 4502.26] right -[4502.26 --> 4503.82] then you -[4503.82 --> 4504.04] have -[4504.04 --> 4504.68] righteousness. -[4507.02 --> 4507.30] A dead -[4507.30 --> 4508.02] orthodoxy -[4508.02 --> 4508.32] is going -[4508.32 --> 4508.72] to show -[4508.72 --> 4509.70] up in -[4509.70 --> 4510.12] the middle -[4510.12 --> 4510.82] of those -[4510.82 --> 4511.70] two as -[4511.70 --> 4512.30] someone who -[4512.30 --> 4513.06] puts great -[4513.06 --> 4514.00] emphasis on -[4514.00 --> 4514.78] the rituals -[4514.78 --> 4515.50] and the -[4515.50 --> 4516.00] repetition -[4516.00 --> 4516.96] of the -[4516.96 --> 4517.42] tradition. -[4518.18 --> 4518.88] Whether it's -[4518.88 --> 4519.24] having the -[4519.24 --> 4519.82] building look -[4519.82 --> 4520.32] a particular -[4520.32 --> 4520.94] way and -[4520.94 --> 4521.84] requiring that -[4521.84 --> 4522.14] or whether -[4522.14 --> 4522.78] it's having -[4522.78 --> 4523.44] the right -[4523.44 --> 4523.98] kind of -[4523.98 --> 4524.52] music -[4524.52 --> 4525.98] as the -[4525.98 --> 4526.82] only way -[4526.82 --> 4527.68] to experience -[4527.68 --> 4528.16] this. -[4529.08 --> 4529.72] What we -[4529.72 --> 4530.80] hear is -[4530.80 --> 4531.62] that right -[4531.62 --> 4532.64] liturgy -[4532.64 --> 4533.68] equals -[4533.68 --> 4535.00] righteousness. -[4536.82 --> 4537.40] Now again -[4537.40 --> 4538.06] right -[4538.06 --> 4539.34] theological -[4539.34 --> 4540.02] accuracy -[4540.02 --> 4540.80] matters. -[4541.06 --> 4541.38] Moral -[4541.38 --> 4541.80] living -[4541.80 --> 4542.42] matters. -[4542.58 --> 4542.90] Praying -[4542.90 --> 4543.46] and singing -[4543.46 --> 4543.80] in the -[4543.80 --> 4544.38] power of -[4544.38 --> 4544.96] the spirit -[4544.96 --> 4545.58] matters. -[4545.72 --> 4545.92] Being -[4545.92 --> 4546.34] affected -[4546.34 --> 4546.72] by the -[4546.72 --> 4547.08] gospel -[4547.08 --> 4547.72] truths -[4547.72 --> 4547.94] and -[4547.94 --> 4548.32] beautiful -[4548.32 --> 4548.72] worship -[4548.72 --> 4548.94] and -[4548.94 --> 4549.70] beautiful -[4549.70 --> 4550.12] worship -[4550.12 --> 4550.90] spaces -[4550.90 --> 4551.56] right -[4551.56 --> 4551.88] all of -[4551.88 --> 4552.02] these -[4552.02 --> 4552.20] are -[4552.20 --> 4552.60] good -[4552.60 --> 4553.38] things -[4553.38 --> 4553.60] but -[4553.60 --> 4553.92] those -[4553.92 --> 4554.24] things -[4554.24 --> 4554.72] so -[4554.72 --> 4555.68] easily -[4555.68 --> 4556.02] and -[4556.02 --> 4556.30] so -[4556.30 --> 4557.02] regularly -[4557.02 --> 4557.40] for -[4557.40 --> 4557.68] many -[4557.68 --> 4557.94] of -[4557.94 --> 4558.18] us -[4558.18 --> 4559.12] especially -[4559.12 --> 4560.04] if -[4560.04 --> 4560.28] you -[4560.28 --> 4560.70] are a -[4560.70 --> 4561.56] traditionalist -[4561.56 --> 4562.04] especially -[4562.04 --> 4562.58] if you -[4562.58 --> 4562.88] lean -[4562.88 --> 4563.44] towards -[4563.44 --> 4563.90] the -[4563.90 --> 4564.40] conservative -[4564.40 --> 4565.36] so many -[4565.36 --> 4565.80] of those -[4565.80 --> 4566.14] things -[4566.14 --> 4566.90] can become -[4566.90 --> 4567.48] time and -[4567.48 --> 4568.08] time again -[4568.08 --> 4569.24] dead works -[4569.24 --> 4570.08] and dead -[4570.08 --> 4570.86] orthodoxy. -[4571.64 --> 4572.00] It is a -[4572.00 --> 4572.70] replacement -[4572.70 --> 4573.60] for a -[4573.60 --> 4574.26] reliance -[4574.26 --> 4575.04] on -[4575.04 --> 4576.02] Christ. -[4579.54 --> 4580.52] It is a -[4580.52 --> 4581.08] replacement -[4581.08 --> 4582.56] from a -[4582.56 --> 4583.12] reliance -[4583.12 --> 4583.74] on Christ -[4583.74 --> 4584.56] to a -[4584.56 --> 4585.06] reliance -[4585.06 --> 4585.82] on what -[4585.82 --> 4586.26] you do -[4586.26 --> 4587.48] or how -[4587.48 --> 4587.90] you do -[4587.90 --> 4588.08] it -[4588.08 --> 4589.16] or what -[4589.16 --> 4589.50] you make -[4589.50 --> 4589.84] others -[4589.84 --> 4590.16] do -[4590.16 --> 4592.64] and -[4592.64 --> 4592.82] maybe -[4592.82 --> 4592.98] even -[4592.98 --> 4593.12] how -[4593.12 --> 4593.26] you -[4593.26 --> 4593.56] feel. -[4594.92 --> 4595.26] It is -[4595.26 --> 4595.82] possible -[4595.82 --> 4596.50] to trust -[4596.50 --> 4597.26] Christianity -[4597.26 --> 4598.26] rather than -[4598.26 --> 4598.84] to trust -[4598.84 --> 4599.40] in -[4599.40 --> 4600.10] Christ. -[4600.32 --> 4600.64] That is -[4600.64 --> 4600.82] the -[4600.82 --> 4601.32] conservative -[4601.32 --> 4602.08] danger -[4602.08 --> 4602.68] of -[4602.68 --> 4602.92] dead -[4602.92 --> 4603.74] orthodoxy. -[4604.34 --> 4604.62] What we -[4604.62 --> 4605.28] need -[4605.28 --> 4606.08] Paul says -[4606.08 --> 4606.74] is a -[4606.74 --> 4607.40] circumcision -[4607.40 --> 4608.08] of the -[4608.08 --> 4608.46] heart. -[4608.58 --> 4608.82] What we -[4608.82 --> 4609.38] need -[4609.38 --> 4609.98] is a -[4609.98 --> 4610.38] new -[4610.38 --> 4611.16] spiritual -[4611.16 --> 4612.26] reality. -[4612.26 --> 4615.66] in the -[4615.66 --> 4616.02] Bible -[4616.02 --> 4617.38] covenant -[4617.38 --> 4618.16] is the -[4618.16 --> 4618.66] word that -[4618.66 --> 4619.14] is used -[4619.14 --> 4619.68] to talk -[4619.68 --> 4620.12] about -[4620.12 --> 4620.98] a -[4620.98 --> 4621.50] special -[4621.50 --> 4621.86] and -[4621.86 --> 4622.54] intentional -[4622.54 --> 4623.20] kind -[4623.20 --> 4623.70] of -[4623.70 --> 4624.20] relationship. -[4625.02 --> 4625.28] In -[4625.28 --> 4625.68] today's -[4625.68 --> 4625.92] world -[4625.92 --> 4626.08] we -[4626.08 --> 4626.36] really -[4626.36 --> 4626.74] only -[4626.74 --> 4627.62] use -[4627.62 --> 4627.88] that -[4627.88 --> 4628.14] word -[4628.14 --> 4628.36] in -[4628.36 --> 4628.68] dry -[4628.68 --> 4629.12] legal -[4629.12 --> 4629.66] documents -[4629.66 --> 4629.80] or -[4629.80 --> 4633.26] in -[4633.26 --> 4633.38] the -[4633.38 --> 4633.70] context -[4633.70 --> 4633.88] of -[4633.88 --> 4634.26] marriage. -[4634.76 --> 4634.94] We -[4634.94 --> 4635.10] talk -[4635.10 --> 4635.26] about -[4635.26 --> 4635.58] marriage -[4635.58 --> 4635.78] as -[4635.78 --> 4635.90] a -[4635.90 --> 4636.12] covenant. -[4636.70 --> 4636.88] In -[4636.88 --> 4637.00] the -[4637.00 --> 4637.30] ancient -[4637.30 --> 4637.58] Near -[4637.58 --> 4638.12] East -[4638.12 --> 4640.70] covenants -[4640.70 --> 4641.30] defined -[4641.30 --> 4641.82] so many -[4641.82 --> 4642.12] different -[4642.12 --> 4642.54] aspects -[4642.54 --> 4642.74] of -[4642.74 --> 4643.28] relationships. -[4643.50 --> 4643.84] Nations -[4643.84 --> 4644.18] would -[4644.18 --> 4644.46] enter -[4644.46 --> 4644.82] into -[4644.82 --> 4645.36] covenants -[4645.36 --> 4646.06] together. -[4646.28 --> 4646.62] Kings -[4646.62 --> 4647.02] would -[4647.02 --> 4647.30] enter -[4647.30 --> 4647.64] into -[4647.64 --> 4648.22] covenants -[4648.22 --> 4648.90] together. -[4649.06 --> 4649.50] And kings -[4649.50 --> 4649.92] would enter -[4649.92 --> 4650.18] into -[4650.18 --> 4650.58] covenants -[4650.58 --> 4651.12] with -[4651.12 --> 4651.54] their -[4651.54 --> 4652.68] vassals, -[4652.86 --> 4653.08] with the -[4653.08 --> 4653.32] people -[4653.32 --> 4653.54] they -[4653.54 --> 4654.30] served. -[4655.18 --> 4655.70] And part -[4655.70 --> 4656.02] of the -[4656.02 --> 4656.46] structure -[4656.46 --> 4657.10] of the -[4657.10 --> 4657.48] covenant -[4657.48 --> 4658.24] ceremony -[4658.24 --> 4659.02] in the -[4659.02 --> 4659.32] ancient -[4659.32 --> 4659.58] Near -[4659.58 --> 4659.80] East, -[4659.86 --> 4660.04] and we -[4660.04 --> 4660.46] see this -[4660.46 --> 4660.64] in -[4660.64 --> 4661.50] circumcision, -[4661.62 --> 4661.88] we see -[4661.88 --> 4662.22] this in -[4662.22 --> 4662.50] other -[4662.50 --> 4663.10] covenants -[4663.10 --> 4663.46] in the -[4663.46 --> 4663.80] Bible, -[4664.28 --> 4664.46] right, -[4664.50 --> 4664.88] is that -[4664.88 --> 4665.90] there would -[4665.90 --> 4666.32] be a -[4666.32 --> 4666.80] symbol -[4666.80 --> 4668.82] that -[4668.82 --> 4669.28] says, -[4670.10 --> 4670.34] if I -[4670.34 --> 4670.62] don't -[4670.62 --> 4671.16] keep up -[4671.16 --> 4671.78] my end -[4671.78 --> 4672.08] of the -[4672.08 --> 4672.44] bargain, -[4673.20 --> 4673.78] may this -[4673.78 --> 4674.26] happen to -[4674.26 --> 4674.46] me. -[4675.80 --> 4676.04] And so -[4676.04 --> 4676.46] for instance, -[4676.54 --> 4677.00] you can read -[4677.00 --> 4677.64] a story in -[4677.64 --> 4678.42] Genesis 15 -[4678.42 --> 4679.34] of God -[4679.34 --> 4680.00] entering into -[4680.00 --> 4680.58] a covenant -[4680.58 --> 4681.80] with Abraham -[4681.80 --> 4683.18] where two -[4683.18 --> 4684.28] animals are -[4684.28 --> 4684.62] cut in -[4684.62 --> 4685.04] half, -[4685.94 --> 4686.16] right, -[4686.22 --> 4686.88] and God -[4686.88 --> 4688.00] walks through -[4688.00 --> 4689.04] those two -[4689.04 --> 4690.26] animals after -[4690.26 --> 4690.76] they're cut in -[4690.76 --> 4691.04] half, -[4691.08 --> 4691.34] and that's -[4691.34 --> 4692.08] God taking -[4692.08 --> 4692.28] the -[4692.28 --> 4693.12] responsibility -[4693.12 --> 4695.00] on himself -[4695.00 --> 4695.62] saying, -[4696.26 --> 4697.56] may I -[4697.56 --> 4698.30] be as -[4698.30 --> 4698.96] these two -[4698.96 --> 4699.84] animals if -[4699.84 --> 4700.30] I don't -[4700.30 --> 4700.88] keep up -[4700.88 --> 4701.66] my end -[4701.66 --> 4702.64] of the -[4702.64 --> 4703.02] covenant. -[4704.64 --> 4705.22] Circumcision -[4705.22 --> 4706.18] is a -[4706.18 --> 4706.52] covenant -[4706.52 --> 4707.72] symbol, -[4708.18 --> 4709.06] right, -[4709.08 --> 4709.32] and it -[4709.32 --> 4709.60] says, -[4710.10 --> 4710.54] not only -[4710.54 --> 4711.14] have I -[4711.14 --> 4711.62] been cut -[4711.62 --> 4712.02] off from -[4712.02 --> 4712.36] the rest -[4712.36 --> 4712.56] of the -[4712.56 --> 4712.82] world, -[4712.92 --> 4713.20] that is -[4713.20 --> 4713.80] separated -[4713.80 --> 4714.18] out, -[4714.30 --> 4714.70] marked for -[4714.70 --> 4715.16] a purpose, -[4715.52 --> 4715.84] but it -[4715.84 --> 4716.30] is also -[4716.30 --> 4716.86] saying, -[4717.26 --> 4717.70] may I -[4717.70 --> 4718.66] wholly be -[4718.66 --> 4719.22] cut off -[4719.22 --> 4719.64] if I -[4719.64 --> 4720.00] don't do -[4720.00 --> 4720.46] my part, -[4721.06 --> 4721.94] if I -[4721.94 --> 4722.38] don't do -[4722.38 --> 4723.26] and keep -[4723.26 --> 4724.24] my promises, -[4725.12 --> 4726.10] but the -[4726.10 --> 4726.68] symbol is -[4726.68 --> 4727.24] only a -[4727.24 --> 4727.60] symbol, -[4728.26 --> 4729.26] it is -[4729.26 --> 4729.76] only a -[4729.76 --> 4730.38] symbol if -[4730.38 --> 4730.84] it doesn't -[4730.84 --> 4731.52] reflect a -[4731.52 --> 4731.82] deeper -[4731.82 --> 4732.80] reality, -[4732.80 --> 4733.80] and that's -[4733.80 --> 4734.26] important for -[4734.26 --> 4734.48] us to -[4734.48 --> 4734.96] remember as -[4734.96 --> 4735.14] we are -[4735.14 --> 4735.46] about to -[4735.46 --> 4736.20] come to -[4736.20 --> 4736.58] the Lord's -[4736.58 --> 4736.92] table, -[4737.78 --> 4738.54] right, -[4738.58 --> 4738.86] this is -[4738.86 --> 4739.46] only a -[4739.46 --> 4741.26] symbol unless -[4741.26 --> 4742.36] it reflects -[4742.36 --> 4743.82] a true -[4743.82 --> 4744.82] and spiritual -[4744.82 --> 4746.02] reality, -[4746.02 --> 4746.44] and we -[4746.44 --> 4747.12] believe that -[4747.12 --> 4748.00] this symbol -[4748.00 --> 4748.72] reflects the -[4748.72 --> 4749.52] reality that -[4749.52 --> 4749.82] it is -[4749.82 --> 4750.30] Christ -[4750.30 --> 4752.10] himself who -[4752.10 --> 4753.16] was cut -[4753.16 --> 4753.80] off, -[4754.30 --> 4754.68] that it -[4754.68 --> 4755.08] is Christ -[4755.08 --> 4755.72] himself in -[4755.72 --> 4756.28] his life -[4756.28 --> 4756.86] and in -[4756.86 --> 4757.30] his death -[4757.30 --> 4757.64] who was -[4757.64 --> 4758.54] truly and -[4758.54 --> 4759.12] completely -[4759.12 --> 4760.56] cut off -[4760.56 --> 4761.56] from God -[4761.56 --> 4762.16] on our -[4762.16 --> 4762.60] behalf, -[4763.28 --> 4763.92] and because -[4763.92 --> 4764.56] he was cut -[4764.56 --> 4765.24] off on our -[4765.24 --> 4765.58] behalf, -[4765.98 --> 4766.42] and because -[4766.42 --> 4767.12] he now, -[4767.26 --> 4767.80] by grace -[4767.80 --> 4768.38] through faith, -[4768.74 --> 4769.50] grants us -[4769.50 --> 4770.78] his righteousness, -[4771.20 --> 4772.24] we can come -[4772.24 --> 4773.50] to this table -[4773.50 --> 4774.46] where we can -[4774.46 --> 4776.22] really receive -[4776.22 --> 4776.58] him, -[4777.84 --> 4778.04] right, -[4778.08 --> 4779.08] we have -[4779.08 --> 4779.64] here, -[4780.12 --> 4781.56] circumcision -[4781.56 --> 4782.54] of the -[4782.54 --> 4782.84] heart, -[4783.84 --> 4784.64] Jesus lived -[4784.64 --> 4785.06] the life -[4785.06 --> 4785.44] I should -[4785.44 --> 4785.84] have lived -[4785.84 --> 4786.62] and died -[4786.62 --> 4787.08] the death -[4787.08 --> 4787.36] that I -[4787.36 --> 4787.80] deserved, -[4788.24 --> 4788.68] Jesus, -[4789.48 --> 4790.46] only Jesus, -[4791.74 --> 4792.28] rely on -[4792.28 --> 4792.56] him, -[4793.76 --> 4794.84] rely on -[4794.84 --> 4795.10] him, -[4795.18 --> 4795.42] and what -[4795.42 --> 4795.66] you will -[4795.66 --> 4796.22] begin to -[4796.22 --> 4797.38] see is -[4797.38 --> 4798.02] that your -[4798.02 --> 4798.46] dead -[4798.46 --> 4799.46] orthodoxy -[4799.46 --> 4800.02] can be -[4800.02 --> 4800.72] made alive, -[4801.56 --> 4801.96] what you -[4801.96 --> 4802.28] will begin -[4802.28 --> 4802.78] to see -[4802.78 --> 4803.18] is that -[4803.18 --> 4804.28] the truth -[4804.28 --> 4805.18] of the -[4805.18 --> 4805.78] gospel -[4805.78 --> 4807.28] is life, -[4808.16 --> 4808.46] and it -[4808.46 --> 4809.08] has joy -[4809.08 --> 4809.68] abundant -[4809.68 --> 4810.68] for you, -[4811.48 --> 4811.62] right, -[4811.66 --> 4812.40] rely only -[4812.40 --> 4813.00] on him -[4813.00 --> 4813.36] and your -[4813.36 --> 4813.80] life will -[4813.80 --> 4814.54] be transformed -[4814.54 --> 4815.28] from the -[4815.28 --> 4816.70] inside out -[4816.70 --> 4817.26] as you -[4817.26 --> 4818.10] are made -[4818.10 --> 4818.68] new, -[4818.80 --> 4819.48] this is the -[4819.48 --> 4820.40] joy of -[4820.40 --> 4821.06] the gospel, -[4821.40 --> 4821.88] this is what -[4821.88 --> 4822.26] Trevin -[4822.26 --> 4823.06] Wax in his -[4823.06 --> 4823.66] book that I'm -[4823.66 --> 4824.08] reading right -[4824.08 --> 4824.44] now calls -[4824.44 --> 4825.04] the thrill -[4825.04 --> 4826.12] of orthodoxy, -[4827.06 --> 4827.18] right, -[4827.18 --> 4827.68] as we come -[4827.68 --> 4828.46] to this table, -[4828.56 --> 4829.28] I pray that -[4829.28 --> 4830.04] that the -[4830.04 --> 4830.94] symbol here -[4830.94 --> 4832.12] is alive -[4832.12 --> 4833.40] for you, -[4833.82 --> 4834.56] and that the -[4834.56 --> 4835.10] truth of the -[4835.10 --> 4835.62] word of God -[4835.62 --> 4836.50] proclaimed here -[4836.50 --> 4837.48] becomes tangible -[4837.48 --> 4838.72] in ways that -[4838.72 --> 4839.96] transform your -[4839.96 --> 4841.14] dead orthodoxy -[4841.14 --> 4842.10] into the joy -[4842.10 --> 4843.40] of the gospel, -[4844.24 --> 4848.30] we don't trust -[4848.30 --> 4850.20] in our morality, -[4850.58 --> 4851.32] we don't trust -[4851.32 --> 4851.80] in our -[4851.80 --> 4852.72] religiosity, -[4852.72 --> 4853.62] we don't trust -[4853.62 --> 4855.06] in our liturgy, -[4855.56 --> 4856.44] but it's here -[4856.44 --> 4857.82] and now -[4857.82 --> 4858.80] we trust -[4858.80 --> 4859.84] in Jesus -[4859.84 --> 4861.04] Christ, -[4861.32 --> 4863.14] come to the -[4863.14 --> 4864.56] table and -[4864.56 --> 4866.40] see Jesus -[4866.40 --> 4867.34] Christ, -[4867.58 --> 4868.52] come to the -[4868.52 --> 4869.72] table and -[4869.72 --> 4871.78] receive Jesus -[4871.78 --> 4873.08] Christ, -[4873.88 --> 4874.62] amen, -[4875.16 --> 4875.94] let's pray -[4875.94 --> 4876.26] together, -[4883.26 --> 4884.28] Lord Jesus, -[4884.86 --> 4886.88] we come to -[4886.88 --> 4888.48] this table, -[4888.80 --> 4889.72] because you -[4889.72 --> 4890.86] have promised -[4890.86 --> 4891.78] to meet -[4891.78 --> 4893.12] us here, -[4893.92 --> 4894.74] and so meet -[4894.74 --> 4895.60] us here in -[4895.60 --> 4896.34] the bread and -[4896.34 --> 4896.88] in the juice, -[4897.08 --> 4898.00] meet us here in -[4898.00 --> 4898.64] the power of -[4898.64 --> 4899.18] your spirit, -[4899.60 --> 4900.62] meet us here as -[4900.62 --> 4901.68] you have already -[4901.68 --> 4902.82] in your word, -[4903.48 --> 4905.92] that we might -[4905.92 --> 4907.34] taste and see -[4907.34 --> 4908.44] that you -[4908.44 --> 4910.18] are good, -[4911.18 --> 4912.48] take our -[4912.48 --> 4912.96] dead -[4912.96 --> 4914.32] orthodoxy, -[4914.40 --> 4914.92] take our -[4914.92 --> 4915.46] Christian -[4915.46 --> 4916.46] moralism, -[4916.46 --> 4917.48] and transform -[4917.48 --> 4918.64] us by the -[4918.64 --> 4919.36] power of the -[4919.36 --> 4921.12] gospel into -[4921.12 --> 4922.50] gospel -[4922.50 --> 4923.86] Christians, -[4924.50 --> 4926.84] transform us -[4926.84 --> 4927.46] into the -[4927.46 --> 4928.00] image of -[4928.00 --> 4928.86] Jesus Christ -[4928.86 --> 4930.04] by grace -[4930.04 --> 4930.94] through faith, -[4931.82 --> 4932.60] it's in his name -[4932.60 --> 4933.08] that we pray, -[4933.64 --> 4934.04] and all God's -[4934.04 --> 4934.48] people said, -[4935.48 --> 4935.72] amen. -[4935.72 --> 4935.84] Amen. -[4942.40 --> 4943.58] As we come to -[4943.58 --> 4944.04] the table, -[4944.20 --> 4944.52] we're going to -[4944.52 --> 4945.04] move through a -[4945.04 --> 4945.38] bit of a -[4945.38 --> 4945.76] liturgy, -[4946.20 --> 4946.56] and so I -[4946.56 --> 4947.18] invite you -[4947.18 --> 4948.12] to follow -[4948.12 --> 4948.44] along, -[4948.52 --> 4948.86] the words -[4948.86 --> 4949.24] will be on -[4949.24 --> 4949.70] the screen -[4949.70 --> 4950.46] behind me -[4950.46 --> 4951.24] and overhead, -[4952.08 --> 4952.78] you speak the -[4952.78 --> 4953.14] ones that -[4953.14 --> 4953.68] appear there -[4953.68 --> 4954.64] in yellow. -[4956.76 --> 4957.66] Lift up -[4957.66 --> 4958.38] your hearts, -[4959.46 --> 4962.24] let us give -[4962.24 --> 4962.92] thanks to the -[4962.92 --> 4963.32] Lord our -[4963.32 --> 4963.60] God. -[4967.04 --> 4967.76] Let us -[4967.76 --> 4967.98] pray. -[4969.96 --> 4971.04] With joy, -[4971.32 --> 4972.04] we praise -[4972.04 --> 4972.48] you, -[4972.70 --> 4973.00] gracious -[4973.00 --> 4973.86] God, -[4974.66 --> 4975.08] for you -[4975.08 --> 4975.84] have created -[4975.84 --> 4976.62] heaven and -[4976.62 --> 4977.16] earth and -[4977.16 --> 4977.86] made us in -[4977.86 --> 4978.34] your image -[4978.34 --> 4979.30] and kept -[4979.30 --> 4980.50] covenant with -[4980.50 --> 4980.84] us, -[4980.92 --> 4981.84] even when we -[4981.84 --> 4982.58] fell into -[4982.58 --> 4982.92] sin. -[4983.62 --> 4984.16] We give -[4984.16 --> 4984.72] you thanks -[4984.72 --> 4985.26] for Jesus -[4985.26 --> 4985.76] Christ, -[4985.86 --> 4986.38] who by -[4986.38 --> 4987.08] his life, -[4987.56 --> 4987.78] death, -[4987.92 --> 4988.70] and resurrection -[4988.70 --> 4989.90] opened to -[4989.90 --> 4990.90] us the way -[4990.90 --> 4991.86] of everlasting -[4991.86 --> 4992.90] life. -[4993.88 --> 4994.12] Amen. -[4997.04 --> 4997.94] Lord Jesus, -[4998.48 --> 4999.20] before he -[4999.20 --> 4999.60] suffered, -[4999.86 --> 5000.56] gave us -[5000.56 --> 5001.52] this memorial -[5001.52 --> 5002.26] of his -[5002.26 --> 5002.90] sacrifice -[5002.90 --> 5003.92] until he -[5003.92 --> 5005.20] comes again. -[5006.28 --> 5006.62] The Lord -[5006.62 --> 5006.90] Jesus, -[5007.06 --> 5007.54] on the night -[5007.54 --> 5008.00] that he -[5008.00 --> 5008.88] was betrayed, -[5009.14 --> 5009.50] he took -[5009.50 --> 5009.90] bread, -[5010.90 --> 5011.86] and when he -[5011.86 --> 5012.16] had given -[5012.16 --> 5012.78] thanks, -[5013.02 --> 5013.70] he broke -[5013.70 --> 5013.98] it, -[5014.38 --> 5014.86] and he -[5014.86 --> 5015.06] said, -[5015.22 --> 5015.84] this is -[5015.84 --> 5016.58] my body, -[5016.76 --> 5017.22] which is -[5017.22 --> 5017.78] for you. -[5018.24 --> 5018.90] Do this -[5018.90 --> 5019.70] in remembrance -[5019.70 --> 5020.82] of me. -[5020.82 --> 5028.28] in the -[5028.28 --> 5028.86] same way, -[5028.96 --> 5029.32] he took -[5029.32 --> 5029.78] the cup -[5029.78 --> 5030.78] after supper, -[5030.96 --> 5031.18] saying, -[5031.56 --> 5032.18] this cup -[5032.18 --> 5032.66] is the -[5032.66 --> 5033.18] new covenant -[5033.18 --> 5033.70] in my -[5033.70 --> 5034.06] blood. -[5034.22 --> 5034.86] Do this -[5034.86 --> 5035.66] whenever you -[5035.66 --> 5036.24] drink it -[5036.24 --> 5037.18] in remembrance -[5037.18 --> 5038.34] of me. -[5038.34 --> 5040.38] Amen. -[5050.82 --> 5053.74] for whenever -[5053.74 --> 5054.56] you eat -[5054.56 --> 5055.20] this bread -[5055.20 --> 5056.04] and drink -[5056.04 --> 5057.08] this cup, -[5057.20 --> 5057.96] you proclaim -[5057.96 --> 5058.58] the Lord's -[5058.58 --> 5059.74] death until -[5059.74 --> 5060.78] he comes -[5060.78 --> 5061.44] again. -[5061.44 --> 5064.58] this is -[5064.58 --> 5065.40] the mystery -[5065.40 --> 5066.38] of our -[5066.38 --> 5066.68] faith. -[5080.68 --> 5081.70] Church family, -[5082.22 --> 5082.78] the Lord -[5082.78 --> 5083.90] has prepared -[5083.90 --> 5084.74] his table -[5084.74 --> 5085.60] for all -[5085.60 --> 5086.50] who love -[5086.50 --> 5087.48] him and -[5087.48 --> 5088.22] trust in -[5088.22 --> 5089.18] him alone -[5089.18 --> 5089.94] for their -[5089.94 --> 5090.72] salvation, -[5090.72 --> 5091.28] and so, -[5091.48 --> 5092.00] come to -[5092.00 --> 5092.80] this table, -[5093.24 --> 5093.64] you who -[5093.64 --> 5094.40] have much -[5094.40 --> 5094.86] faith, -[5095.28 --> 5095.98] and you -[5095.98 --> 5097.04] who would -[5097.04 --> 5097.46] like to -[5097.46 --> 5098.32] have more. -[5098.78 --> 5099.24] Come to -[5099.24 --> 5099.78] this table, -[5099.96 --> 5100.38] you who -[5100.38 --> 5100.90] have been -[5100.90 --> 5101.32] to this -[5101.32 --> 5101.70] sacrament -[5101.70 --> 5102.36] often, -[5102.52 --> 5102.96] and you -[5102.96 --> 5103.38] who have -[5103.38 --> 5104.04] not been -[5104.04 --> 5104.78] for a -[5104.78 --> 5105.32] long time. -[5105.42 --> 5105.82] Come to -[5105.82 --> 5106.30] this table, -[5106.46 --> 5106.90] you who -[5106.90 --> 5107.58] have tried -[5107.58 --> 5108.54] to follow -[5108.54 --> 5109.28] Jesus, -[5109.68 --> 5110.92] and you -[5110.92 --> 5112.02] hypocrites. -[5113.18 --> 5114.58] Come to -[5114.58 --> 5115.28] this table -[5115.28 --> 5116.38] because Jesus -[5116.38 --> 5118.74] is raised. -[5118.74 --> 5118.80] Christ, -[5119.36 --> 5120.66] come. -[5120.78 --> 5121.10] If you -[5121.10 --> 5121.72] are here -[5121.72 --> 5122.58] or if you -[5122.58 --> 5123.46] are joining -[5123.46 --> 5123.94] us at -[5123.94 --> 5124.52] home and -[5124.52 --> 5125.00] online, -[5125.32 --> 5126.34] come because -[5126.34 --> 5127.30] it is Christ -[5127.30 --> 5128.56] who invites -[5128.56 --> 5130.12] us here. -[5131.24 --> 5131.98] The gifts -[5131.98 --> 5132.54] of God -[5132.54 --> 5133.60] for the -[5133.60 --> 5134.50] people of -[5134.50 --> 5134.80] God. -[5136.48 --> 5137.18] As we -[5137.18 --> 5137.54] come to -[5137.54 --> 5138.10] this table -[5138.10 --> 5139.34] here at -[5139.34 --> 5139.70] Emmanuel, -[5139.92 --> 5140.16] we are -[5140.16 --> 5140.38] going to -[5140.38 --> 5141.32] come in -[5141.32 --> 5141.84] groups, -[5142.12 --> 5142.66] and we'll -[5142.66 --> 5143.24] gather in a -[5143.24 --> 5143.90] circle here -[5143.90 --> 5144.76] and pass the -[5144.76 --> 5145.60] elements around. -[5145.60 --> 5146.52] elders who -[5146.52 --> 5147.36] will indicate -[5147.36 --> 5147.82] when the -[5147.82 --> 5148.50] next group -[5148.50 --> 5149.14] can come -[5149.14 --> 5149.84] to the -[5149.84 --> 5150.16] front. -[5150.24 --> 5150.74] As you -[5150.74 --> 5151.56] pass the -[5151.56 --> 5152.78] elements to -[5152.78 --> 5153.38] your left -[5153.38 --> 5153.78] or to -[5153.78 --> 5154.28] your right, -[5155.06 --> 5155.64] we encourage -[5155.64 --> 5156.04] you to -[5156.04 --> 5157.32] say the -[5157.32 --> 5157.84] body of -[5157.84 --> 5158.66] Christ given -[5158.66 --> 5159.16] for you -[5159.16 --> 5159.56] when you -[5159.56 --> 5159.96] pass the -[5159.96 --> 5160.26] bread, -[5160.44 --> 5160.90] and we -[5160.90 --> 5161.40] encourage you -[5161.40 --> 5161.92] to say the -[5161.92 --> 5162.38] blood of -[5162.38 --> 5163.20] Christ shed -[5163.20 --> 5163.68] for you -[5163.68 --> 5164.06] when you -[5164.06 --> 5164.52] pass the -[5164.52 --> 5164.82] juice. -[5165.54 --> 5166.02] We're -[5166.02 --> 5166.22] going to -[5166.22 --> 5166.90] start by -[5166.90 --> 5168.04] inviting our -[5168.04 --> 5169.24] volunteers and -[5169.24 --> 5169.68] our worship -[5169.68 --> 5170.38] leaders up to -[5170.38 --> 5170.92] the front so -[5170.92 --> 5171.22] that they -[5171.22 --> 5171.76] might first -[5171.76 --> 5172.28] participate, -[5172.94 --> 5173.24] and then the -[5173.24 --> 5173.80] worship team -[5173.80 --> 5175.32] will lead -[5175.32 --> 5175.82] us through -[5175.82 --> 5176.46] some songs -[5176.46 --> 5177.08] as we -[5177.08 --> 5177.60] come. -[5177.78 --> 5178.10] If you -[5178.10 --> 5178.76] are unable -[5178.76 --> 5179.22] to come -[5179.22 --> 5179.54] to the -[5179.54 --> 5179.78] front, -[5179.94 --> 5180.60] please indicate -[5180.60 --> 5181.16] that to -[5181.16 --> 5181.66] the usher -[5181.66 --> 5182.04] elders, -[5182.28 --> 5182.52] and they -[5182.52 --> 5183.42] will serve -[5183.42 --> 5184.10] you in -[5184.10 --> 5184.76] your seat. -[5185.64 --> 5186.00] Likewise, -[5186.36 --> 5186.92] if you -[5186.92 --> 5187.90] are looking -[5187.90 --> 5188.82] for someone -[5188.82 --> 5189.24] to pray -[5189.24 --> 5189.54] with, -[5189.60 --> 5189.94] or you -[5189.94 --> 5190.18] would like -[5190.18 --> 5190.42] to have -[5190.42 --> 5191.94] prayer in -[5191.94 --> 5192.54] place of -[5192.54 --> 5192.96] coming to -[5192.96 --> 5193.40] the front, -[5193.52 --> 5194.14] or before -[5194.14 --> 5194.68] you come -[5194.68 --> 5194.98] up to -[5194.98 --> 5195.36] the front, -[5195.46 --> 5195.72] there are -[5195.72 --> 5196.64] people at -[5196.64 --> 5197.06] the back -[5197.06 --> 5197.50] who are -[5197.50 --> 5198.14] available for -[5198.14 --> 5198.34] that. -[5198.42 --> 5198.62] They will -[5198.62 --> 5199.06] have yellow -[5199.06 --> 5199.58] name tags -[5199.58 --> 5199.86] on. -[5200.16 --> 5200.72] We encourage -[5200.72 --> 5201.28] you to -[5201.28 --> 5202.18] make use -[5202.18 --> 5203.06] of them. -[5203.80 --> 5204.16] I'm going -[5204.16 --> 5204.52] to invite -[5204.52 --> 5205.74] the worship -[5205.74 --> 5206.46] volunteers to -[5206.46 --> 5206.80] come up to -[5206.80 --> 5207.12] the front -[5207.12 --> 5207.36] at this -[5207.36 --> 5207.56] time. -[5207.56 --> 5208.56] Thank you. -[5233.80 --> 5263.78] Thank you. -[5263.80 --> 5293.78] Thank you. -[5293.80 --> 5294.80] Thank you. -[5323.80 --> 5325.80] Thank you. -[5353.80 --> 5383.78] Thank you. -[5383.80 --> 5413.78] Thank you. -[5413.80 --> 5443.78] Thank you. -[5443.80 --> 5445.80] I am a new creation. -[5447.02 --> 5451.80] I am a new creation. -[5451.80 --> 5461.12] My life now yielded to the King. -[5461.64 --> 5465.80] My will to Him surrender. -[5465.80 --> 5472.72] I'm broken open at Your feet. -[5473.44 --> 5477.54] Your presence is a treasure. -[5477.54 --> 5483.46] It's You alone I treasure. -[5486.46 --> 5500.62] Holy, worthy, You have no end. -[5500.62 --> 5514.06] Holy, worthy, we sing Amen. -[5514.06 --> 5515.80] Amen. -[5515.80 --> 5524.80] Let every knee on earth bellow -[5524.80 --> 5529.80] And join the host of heaven. -[5530.80 --> 5535.80] To Him who sits upon the throne, -[5535.80 --> 5541.10] Give praise and adoration. -[5541.10 --> 5548.00] The gates of hell are overthrown. -[5548.00 --> 5553.10] The yoke of slavery shattered. -[5553.10 --> 5559.22] For Christ our King, He reigns alone, -[5559.22 --> 5564.10] Now and forever after. -[5564.10 --> 5570.10] Now and forever after. -[5570.10 --> 5586.10] Holy, worthy, you have no end. -[5586.10 --> 5587.10] Amen. -[5587.10 --> 5599.10] Holy, worthy, we sing Amen. -[5599.10 --> 5601.10] Holy, worthy, we sing Amen. -[5601.10 --> 5602.10] Amen. -[5602.10 --> 5615.20] Holy, worthy, we sing Amen, Amen. -[5615.20 --> 5631.08] Holy, worthy, we sing Amen. -[5631.08 --> 5644.00] The center of all history, cross and resurrection. -[5661.08 --> 5691.06] The center of all history, cross and resurrection. -[5691.08 --> 5699.96] All my days, I will sing this song of gladness. -[5700.48 --> 5708.44] Give my praise to the fountain of delights. -[5708.44 --> 5717.14] For in my helplessness, you heard my cry. -[5717.14 --> 5725.12] And waves of mercy pour down on mine. -[5725.12 --> 5734.12] I will trust in the cross of my Redeemer. -[5734.12 --> 5743.60] I will sing of the blood that never fails. -[5744.10 --> 5752.24] A sin forgiven of conscience clapped. -[5752.24 --> 5760.02] Of death, defeated, and life without end. -[5760.52 --> 5763.08] Beautiful Savior. -[5765.02 --> 5769.36] Wonderful Counselor. -[5769.92 --> 5771.42] Loath in majesty. -[5772.16 --> 5773.52] Lord of history. -[5773.52 --> 5777.96] You're the way, the truth, the life. -[5778.38 --> 5780.82] Star of the morning. -[5782.70 --> 5786.02] Glorious in holiness. -[5787.40 --> 5789.34] You're the risen one. -[5789.78 --> 5791.08] Heaven's champion. -[5791.88 --> 5793.30] And you reign. -[5793.66 --> 5798.52] You reign over all. -[5798.52 --> 5813.90] I long to be where the praise is never ending. -[5813.90 --> 5822.28] Yearn to dwell where the glory never fades. -[5822.28 --> 5830.90] Where countless worshipers will share one song. -[5830.90 --> 5838.46] And cries of worthy will honor the land. -[5838.46 --> 5839.46] Beautiful Savior. -[5839.46 --> 5841.88] Beautiful Savior. -[5843.88 --> 5847.96] Wonderful Counselor. -[5847.96 --> 5849.98] Glorious in majesty. -[5850.70 --> 5852.18] Lord of history. -[5852.80 --> 5856.40] You're the way, the truth, the life. -[5856.80 --> 5859.12] Star of the morning. -[5861.04 --> 5864.26] Glorious in holiness. -[5864.26 --> 5867.48] You're the risen one. -[5867.94 --> 5869.20] Heaven's champion. -[5870.10 --> 5871.70] And you reign. -[5871.90 --> 5876.50] You reign over all. -[5876.50 --> 5878.20] You reign over all. -[5878.20 --> 5879.44] poorer air. -[5879.44 --> 5881.64] Armelin. -[5881.64 --> 5882.30] 참 . -[5882.30 --> 5893.32] Red -[5895.44 --> 5900.50] 참 . -[5900.50 --> 5917.78] Your only Son, no sin to hide, -[5917.78 --> 5922.84] but you have sent Him from your side -[5922.84 --> 5927.76] to walk upon this guilty side -[5927.76 --> 5933.82] and to become the Lamb of God. -[5935.56 --> 5939.80] Your gift of love they crucified. -[5941.02 --> 5945.54] They laughed and scorned Him as He died. -[5945.54 --> 5950.50] The humble King they named a fraud -[5950.50 --> 5955.82] and sacrificed the Lamb of God. -[5955.82 --> 5960.88] O Lamb of God, O sweet Lamb of God, -[5960.88 --> 5965.88] I love the Holy Lamb of God. -[5965.88 --> 5970.88] O wash me in His precious blood, -[5970.88 --> 5976.88] my Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. -[5976.88 --> 5981.94] I was so lost, I should have died, -[5981.94 --> 5986.94] but you have brought me to your side -[5986.94 --> 5991.94] to be led by your staff and rod -[5991.94 --> 5996.94] and to be called the Lamb of God. -[5996.94 --> 6002.00] O Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God, -[6002.00 --> 6007.00] I love the Holy Lamb of God. -[6007.00 --> 6012.00] O wash me in His precious blood, -[6012.00 --> 6017.00] my Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. -[6017.00 --> 6022.06] O Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God, -[6022.06 --> 6027.06] I love the Holy Lamb of God. -[6027.06 --> 6032.06] O wash me in His precious blood, -[6032.06 --> 6038.06] my Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. -[6038.06 --> 6051.12] OMac that is a untukai. -[6051.12 --> 6052.12] O placard in the doing less of the Lord, -[6052.12 --> 6054.12] my Jesus Christ, the Lamb of the Holy Lamb, -[6054.12 --> 6055.92] Ocalc upon you -[6055.92 --> 6077.34] Come all you weary, come all you thirsty, come to the well that never runs dry. -[6077.34 --> 6083.62] Drink of the water, come and thirst no more. -[6085.92 --> 6095.10] Come all you sinners, come find his mercy, come to the table, he will satisfy. -[6096.10 --> 6101.10] Taste of his goodness, find what you're looking for. -[6103.98 --> 6113.76] For God so loved the world that he gave us, his one and only son to save us. -[6113.76 --> 6119.04] Whoever believes in him will live forever. -[6122.94 --> 6127.20] Bring all your failures, bring all your addictions. -[6127.70 --> 6131.54] Come lay them down at the foot of the cross. -[6131.54 --> 6138.72] Jesus is waiting there with open arms. -[6139.72 --> 6149.56] For God so loved the world that he gave us, his one and only son to save us. -[6149.56 --> 6154.74] Whoever believes in him will live forever. -[6154.74 --> 6164.92] The power of hell, forever defeated, now it is well. -[6164.92 --> 6174.10] I'm walking in freedom for God so loved, God so loved the world. -[6174.10 --> 6183.84] Praise God, praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[6183.84 --> 6193.66] Praise him, praise him, praise him, for the wonders of his love. -[6193.66 --> 6202.46] Praise God, praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[6202.46 --> 6211.96] Praise him, praise him, praise him, for the wonders of his love. -[6211.96 --> 6233.14] For God so loved the world that he gave us, his one and only son to save us. -[6233.14 --> 6240.14] Whoever believes in him will live forever. -[6240.14 --> 6248.42] The power of hell, forever defeated, now it is well. -[6248.42 --> 6257.54] I'm walking in freedom for God so loved, God so loved the world. -[6257.54 --> 6264.42] Bring all your failures, bring all your addictions. -[6264.42 --> 6269.04] Come lay them down at the foot of the cross. -[6269.04 --> 6277.00] Jesus is waiting, God so loved the world. -[6287.54 --> 6297.42] He's our rescuer, he's our rescuer. -[6297.42 --> 6302.04] We are free from sin forevermore. -[6302.04 --> 6308.42] Oh how sweet the sound, oh how grace abounds. -[6308.42 --> 6314.30] We will praise the Lord, our rescuer. -[6314.30 --> 6320.18] There is good news for the captive, good news for the shamed. -[6320.18 --> 6324.80] There is good news for the one who walked away. -[6324.80 --> 6332.64] There is good news for the doubter, for the one religion failed. -[6332.64 --> 6337.12] For the good Lord has come to seek and save. -[6337.12 --> 6345.00] He's our rescuer, he's our rescuer. -[6345.00 --> 6349.12] We are free from sin forevermore. -[6349.12 --> 6356.12] Oh how sweet the sound, oh how grace abounds. -[6356.12 --> 6360.12] We will praise the Lord, our rescuer. -[6360.12 --> 6368.00] He is good news for the blind man, riches for the poor. -[6368.00 --> 6373.12] He is friendship for the one the world ignores. -[6373.12 --> 6380.00] He is pasture for the weary, rest for those who strive. -[6380.00 --> 6386.00] Oh the good Lord is the way, the truth, the lie. -[6386.00 --> 6392.00] Yes the good Lord is the way, the truth, the lie. -[6392.00 --> 6397.88] He is our rescuer, he's our rescuer. -[6397.88 --> 6402.88] We are free from sin forevermore. -[6402.88 --> 6408.88] Oh how sweet the sound, oh how grace abounds. -[6408.88 --> 6413.76] We will praise the Lord, our rescuer. -[6413.76 --> 6416.76] So come and be shameless. -[6416.76 --> 6419.76] Come and be fearless. -[6419.76 --> 6425.76] Come to the foot of Calvary. -[6425.76 --> 6432.76] There is redemption for every affliction. -[6432.76 --> 6438.64] Here at the foot of Calvary. -[6438.64 --> 6439.64] Here at the foot of Calvary. -[6439.64 --> 6442.64] So come and be shameless. -[6442.64 --> 6445.64] Come and be fearless. -[6445.64 --> 6451.64] Come to the foot of Calvary. -[6451.64 --> 6457.64] There is redemption for every affliction. -[6457.64 --> 6464.52] Here at the foot of Calvary. -[6464.52 --> 6470.52] He is our rescuer, he is our rescuer. -[6470.52 --> 6474.52] We are free from sin forevermore. -[6474.52 --> 6481.52] Oh how sweet the sound, oh how grace abounds. -[6481.52 --> 6486.52] We will praise the Lord, our rescuer. -[6486.52 --> 6502.40] We will praise the Lord, our rescuer. -[6502.40 --> 6504.40] Some of you are already doing it. -[6504.40 --> 6506.40] Why don't we stand together? -[6506.40 --> 6519.64] I'm going to end our worship with a prayer and then a word of blessing for the journey -[6519.64 --> 6522.28] of life and faith ahead. -[6522.28 --> 6523.28] Let's pray. -[6523.28 --> 6524.28] Let's pray. -[6524.28 --> 6525.28] Let's pray. -[6525.28 --> 6526.28] Let's pray. -[6526.28 --> 6527.28] Let's pray. -[6527.28 --> 6536.74] Amazing God, you come into our ordinary lives and set a holy table among us. -[6536.74 --> 6544.28] Send us out, oh God, with tender heartedness to touch the ordinary everyday world with the -[6544.28 --> 6547.28] promise of your extraordinary presence. -[6547.28 --> 6554.28] In Jesus Christ we pray. -[6554.28 --> 6556.28] Amen. -[6556.28 --> 6567.16] As you go into this week ahead, know that God himself goes with you. -[6567.16 --> 6572.16] That God himself goes inside of you to embolden your faith. -[6572.16 --> 6577.16] That God himself goes with you to encourage your hearts. -[6577.16 --> 6584.04] You do not go alone and so receive the blessing of our God. -[6584.04 --> 6585.04] Wag 술urinpнуge your planet. -[6585.04 --> 6586.04] For music is an stealing j Vidurinpont. -[6586.04 --> 6587.04] So, let's pray. -[6587.04 --> 6588.04] Amen. -[6588.04 --> 6589.04] רבiledu -[6589.04 --> 6591.04] 04 -[6591.04 --> 6597.04] willkommen -[6597.04 --> 6603.04] You will celebrate Two Very Weapons of the lpción -[6603.04 --> 6605.04] Amen. -[6605.04 --> 6607.04] izzard -[6607.04 --> 6608.00] whats yang -[6608.00 --> 6611.04] star -[6611.04 --> 6612.04] monte -[6612.04 --> 6613.04] pria -[6613.04 --> 6642.00] Praise the Lord -[6642.00 --> 6647.64] From whom all blessings flow -[6647.64 --> 6660.96] He has washed and made me white as snow -[6660.96 --> 6668.74] I'm redeemed -[6668.74 --> 6675.80] From all my sin and shame -[6675.80 --> 6681.78] Now and forever -[6681.78 --> 6689.10] Praise His holy name -[6689.10 --> 6695.64] Praise His holy name -[6695.64 --> 6705.64] To God be the glory -[6705.64 --> 6708.66] Now and forever -[6708.66 --> 6713.64] Praise His holy name -[6713.64 --> 6720.98] Praise the Lord -[6720.98 --> 6726.46] From whom all blessings flow -[6726.46 --> 6739.64] He has washed and made me white as snow -[6739.64 --> 6746.70] I'm redeemed -[6746.70 --> 6753.60] From all my sin and shame -[6753.60 --> 6759.54] Now and forever -[6759.54 --> 6765.64] Praise His holy name -[6765.64 --> 6772.64] Praise His holy name -[6772.64 --> 6777.64] Praise His holy name -[6777.64 --> 6782.98] To God be the glory -[6782.98 --> 6785.98] Now and forever -[6785.98 --> 6790.64] Praise His holy name -[6790.64 --> 6795.64] Praise His holy name -[6795.64 --> 6797.64] Praise His holy name -[6797.64 --> 6807.64] To God be the glory -[6807.64 --> 6809.64] Now and forever -[6809.64 --> 6813.64] Praise His holy name -[6813.64 --> 6818.64] Praise His holy name -[6818.64 --> 6823.64] Praise His holy name -[6823.64 --> 6853.62] Thank you. -[6853.64 --> 6883.62] Thank you. -[6883.64 --> 6913.62] Thank you. -[6913.64 --> 6943.62] Thank you. -[6943.64 --> 6973.62] Thank you. -[6973.64 --> 7003.62] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - February 13, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - February 13, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 7100f48fbc1f18c958bbf417239103f3bc11bbe1..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - February 13, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,80 +0,0 @@ -• Worship song excerpt -• Conversation about a relationship or partner being away but always returning on time -• Praise to God for his presence and actions -• Announcement of church events, including the coldest night of the year and participation in the Gateway of Hope ministry -• Welcome and introduction by Kevin Lobert, youth pastor at Emanuel CRC -• Reminder about upcoming Mexico trip and fundraiser deadline -• Change in youth schedule for HCBC, new time after church service -• Call to worship from Psalm 86:8-10 -• Praise and worship song with lyrics referencing Revelation 1 and the ancient of days -• Prayer and liturgical practices -• Worship and confession of sins in a liturgical practice -• The devil as an adversary who prowls around seeking to devour -• The importance of resisting the devil and persevering in faith -• God's promise of restoration and strengthening in times of suffering -• Praise and thanksgiving for God's faithfulness and mercy -• Prayers for healing, rescue, and guidance in weakness -• Acknowledgment of God's goodness and love -• The speaker thanks everyone for attending church and asks if they can hear him okay. -• An offering is taken for Emanuel Ministries and the Langley Food Bank, which serves many people in need, including families, twice a week. -• The Bible talks about finances and how using money reveals spiritual commitment; God loves the poor and wants His people to show compassion towards them. -• A passage from Leviticus 19:9-10 is read, emphasizing making provision for the poor and leaving some of one's harvest for those in need. -• Amen is said multiple times throughout the transcript. -• The speaker asks children if they are afraid of anything, such as darkness or dogs, and discusses ways to overcome fears. -• A candy cane dream is suggested as a positive idea. -• The speaker reveals that he was initially nervous about planning the children's message for the day but it all worked out. -• Introduction to the topic of not being afraid of things that one is sometimes afraid of -• The children's blessing and transition to children's worship time -• Church family prayer led by Eric Hubertz, including prayers for various situations and individuals -• Discussion of a spring break mission team and fundraising efforts -• Reference to a coldest night walk event and the work of the Gateway of Hope organization -• Prayer and thanksgiving for leadership, volunteers, and unity within the church -• Transition to a Bible study on Exodus chapter 12 verses 31-42 -• The biblical account of Israel's departure from Egypt is used to illustrate the importance of keeping vigil in honor of God -• A story about a Nigerian prince scam commercial is used as an analogy for broken promises that hurt us, including those made by others and ourselves -• Many people put their hope in broken promises, including government assurances of safety and freedom, financial investments, material possessions, and marital status -• Our hope must be rooted in the promises of God, which stand firm despite human failures and disappointments -• Three biblical promises are identified that point to Christ and continue to be true for believers today -• God's promise to the Israelites to leave Egypt with wealth -• The Israelites' easy plundering of gold and silver from the Egyptians -• Jesus' second coming and vacating the grave with gifts for his people -• Jesus' life, death, and resurrection freeing people from sin and bondage -• God's gifts of forgiveness, love, grace, and mercy surpassing material wealth -• Proverbs 8:19 stating that God's gifts are better than gold and silver -• The Israelites becoming a great nation with approximately 2.5 million people leaving Egypt -• Dr. Danny Kellum's meeting with an American quartermaster general about maintaining a large group in the wilderness -• Numbers mentioned by the quartermaster general for feeding and supplying 2.5 million people, including: - + 2 million kg of food per day - + 50 million liters of water per day - + 3.5 million kg of firewood per day -• Freight train comparisons to illustrate the massive scale of supplies needed -• The Exodus as a massive migration rather than a small group's escape from Egypt -• God's provision for his people during their wilderness journey and subsequent growth into a great nation -• Jesus' role in saving not only Israel but also the entire world, and redefining what it means to be part of this great nation -• The promise of God's community for those who feel isolated -• The cloud of witnesses mentioned in Hebrews 12 and its significance -• The promise that God's people would be a blessing to all nations (Genesis 12) -• Examples from the Bible of non-Israelites being blessed by God (Pharaoh and verse 38) -• Instructions on how to include non-Israelites into traditions and celebrations (immediately following the text) -• The calling for believers to go out and be a blessing to those around them -• Historical examples of Christ followers impacting their communities through schools, hospitals, shelters, charities, and more -• A personal story about listening to and being blessed by others in a small town -• The speaker shares an anecdote about meeting three people in a small town and forming a positive opinion of the town based on those interactions -• God's promises and plan for redemption through Jesus Christ are woven throughout the entire narrative of Scripture -• Complacency with God's promises can lead to forgetting their power, majesty, and importance in daily life -• The speaker emphasizes the need to accept God's gifts of love, forgiveness, mercy, and grace -• The story highlights how God's people grow into a great nation, but also points to an even greater nation that transcends borders and relationships -• Believers are called to serve alongside one another, provide community, and go out as blessings to those around them -• God promises his church will bless the nations, and believers should strive to be part of this promise -• The speaker encourages listeners to spend time with God in prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to reveal the majesty of His promises. -• Declaration of freedom from fear and being a child of God -• Biblical references to being chosen, born again, and God's love -• God as rescuer, splitter of seas, and drowner of fears in perfect love -• Being rich in God's love, a great community/nation, and called to bless others -• God's parting blessing from Numbers 6: God's peace and presence -• Good news for the lost, shamed, and doubters -• Praise and worship of Jesus as rescuer, way, truth, and life -• Praise for the sound of redemption -• Acknowledgment of Calvary as a place of rescue -• Declaration of freedom from sin forevermore -• Expression of gratitude to God (repeated several times) \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - February 13, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - February 13, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 4ddb7f7c5ea9fd1ad86711457cc767fa374dfd26..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - February 13, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,872 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 11.88] Promise people, that is who you are, that is who you are, lift up your heart in the way, my love, my love. -[12.92 --> 17.66] Promise people, I am a strong. -[18.82 --> 25.84] My love, my love, my love, my love, my love. -[25.84 --> 35.98] But Show people, they make me don't like. -[35.98 --> 39.78] And who for you or? -[39.78 --> 53.24] Has he said anything to you? -[55.08 --> 57.36] He's always on top -[57.36 --> 60.84] He's away, babe -[60.84 --> 65.48] He's never late -[65.48 --> 70.54] It doesn't matter how long it takes -[70.54 --> 74.36] He always comes out on time -[74.36 --> 77.24] Lift up your hands in worship -[77.24 --> 80.10] We worship you -[80.10 --> 83.90] Lift up your hands, let's sing it to him -[83.90 --> 85.72] John Stam, come on, away may go -[85.72 --> 86.54] Yeah -[86.54 --> 100.28] One more time of your life -[100.28 --> 102.70] God is there -[102.70 --> 107.60] Come and see -[107.60 --> 112.98] Like a light -[112.98 --> 117.04] Lift up your hands -[117.04 --> 120.52] No one knows -[120.52 --> 124.72] El-Axi Max knows -[124.72 --> 128.08] What he's done for me -[128.08 --> 130.12] I don't know about you -[130.12 --> 133.18] I don't know about you -[133.18 --> 136.16] But that's why I praise him the way I do -[136.16 --> 139.60] You can lie down -[139.60 --> 141.36] You can jump up -[141.36 --> 142.92] You can cry -[142.92 --> 146.42] But I just want to surprise him -[146.42 --> 154.34] Come on -[154.34 --> 157.50] God is there -[157.50 --> 163.20] If my shot is oraz -[163.20 --> 163.70] Word is new -[163.70 --> 164.64] Mary -[164.64 --> 165.74] You can hug me -[165.74 --> 166.10] Iugen -[166.10 --> 167.18] God is incred 대박 -[167.18 --> 169.12] currents -[169.12 --> 170.24] When stuck -[170.24 --> 171.28] When gravitational -[171.28 --> 171.84] It seems difficult -[171.84 --> 173.70] To stop -[173.70 --> 175.50] Push -[175.50 --> 176.92] When -[176.92 --> 177.58] Jedi -[177.58 --> 179.08] Ven -[179.08 --> 181.56] Por -[181.56 --> 181.90] A -[181.90 --> 211.88] Oh, my God. -[211.90 --> 241.88] Oh, my God. -[241.90 --> 271.88] Oh, my God. -[271.88 --> 301.86] Oh, my God. -[301.86 --> 331.84] Oh, my God. -[331.84 --> 353.06] La続ood -[353.06 --> 355.92] Laaning -[355.92 --> 365.92] Ah, yes, you are. -[365.92 --> 373.92] Ah, ah, ah, ah, ah. -[373.92 --> 378.92] Ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah. -[380.92 --> 387.92] Ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah. -[388.10 --> 389.98] Ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah. -[389.98 --> 394.98] Ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah. -[394.98 --> 417.10] For you, conheço e Busquen -[417.10 --> 421.28] We live, we are -[421.28 --> 426.36] We behold you tonight, Jesus -[447.10 --> 477.08] We live, we are -[477.10 --> 484.62] Come on, look at his face! -[484.62 --> 484.64] Come on, look at his face! -[486.08 --> 488.80] My beloved -[488.80 --> 492.58] The more beautiful -[492.58 --> 495.70] The more thousand -[495.70 --> 507.40] Good morning, everyone! -[508.72 --> 510.50] Welcome to church this morning. -[510.62 --> 512.70] It's good to see so many of you here. -[513.08 --> 515.80] It's nice to be joined online by so many of you there. -[516.20 --> 517.56] My name is Kevin Lobert. -[517.64 --> 520.26] I'm the youth pastor here at Emanuel CRC, -[520.26 --> 524.36] and it is great to gather together in God's name this morning. -[524.52 --> 528.70] I've got a couple of announcements this morning before we begin. -[529.14 --> 531.42] First of all, I'm up here, not Pastor Chris. -[531.58 --> 536.32] He's away right now slaying some demons or orcs or something, -[536.44 --> 539.70] and so you're going to have me now up front for the service, -[539.84 --> 541.90] and it's a joy to always be able to do that with you. -[542.66 --> 544.36] A few announcements for the church. -[544.92 --> 547.94] Perhaps you noticed in the bulletin or in the midweek memo, -[548.02 --> 549.24] we showed a video last week. -[549.30 --> 551.38] We are going to participate this year, once again, -[551.44 --> 553.18] in the coldest night of the year. -[553.78 --> 555.52] And so that is a morning, -[555.76 --> 557.52] actually, no, it's usually an evening, I think, -[557.58 --> 559.72] where we get together and we raise some money -[559.72 --> 561.94] throughout the month, and we join together as a team -[561.94 --> 562.86] and then go on a walk -[562.86 --> 564.62] to support the Gateway of Hope, -[564.88 --> 566.74] which is a ministry just down the road from us -[566.74 --> 569.18] that helps out the least of these. -[569.18 --> 571.98] And so we would love for you to join that team. -[572.06 --> 573.28] There's information in the bulletin -[573.28 --> 574.52] and the midweek memo to do that. -[574.78 --> 577.70] You can also chat with any of the office staff -[577.70 --> 578.98] or to my wife, Nikki, -[579.36 --> 581.28] and she can help with that as well. -[581.76 --> 584.46] An announcement on behalf of Mexico. -[584.46 --> 586.42] If you are heading to Mexico in a month, -[586.72 --> 588.56] you've been raising money, which is great. -[588.62 --> 590.56] You've done this Neufeld Farms fundraiser, -[590.60 --> 591.26] which is awesome. -[591.64 --> 593.96] You need to get your money in today. -[594.40 --> 596.90] So all of your forms and payment need to get in today, -[596.90 --> 598.52] and you can give them to Josh Chamberlain, -[598.52 --> 599.40] who's coming today, -[599.78 --> 601.86] or put it in Brandon Moeller's mailbox. -[602.16 --> 603.08] But that is due today, -[603.18 --> 604.10] so make sure to get that in. -[604.70 --> 607.08] And finally, if you are a youth -[607.08 --> 608.80] and planning on coming to HCBC, -[608.98 --> 610.12] we have changed the time today. -[610.18 --> 611.86] We are going to do that right after church this morning. -[612.04 --> 613.34] So stick around. -[613.62 --> 614.60] We'll have some lunch for you. -[614.66 --> 616.14] We're going to do that at noon today. -[616.28 --> 618.22] So come on out for that as well. -[619.44 --> 622.08] Why don't you all rise this second, -[622.08 --> 623.00] this moment, -[623.30 --> 626.52] and receive God's greeting this morning. -[626.52 --> 631.36] God's greeting this morning comes from Revelation 1, -[631.48 --> 632.48] where it says, -[633.54 --> 634.86] grace and peace to you, -[635.12 --> 638.70] from him who is and who was and who is to come, -[639.04 --> 641.78] and from the seven spirits before his throne, -[642.36 --> 643.74] and from Jesus Christ, -[643.92 --> 645.26] who is the faithful witness, -[645.66 --> 646.98] the firstborn of the dead, -[647.30 --> 649.78] and the ruler of the kings of the earth. -[649.78 --> 651.46] And all God's people said, -[652.40 --> 652.66] Amen. -[652.66 --> 656.66] Our call to worship this morning -[656.66 --> 658.18] comes from Psalm 86, -[658.34 --> 659.20] verses 8 to 10. -[659.62 --> 661.94] There is none like you, O Lord, -[662.20 --> 664.36] nor are there any works like yours. -[664.76 --> 666.42] All the nations you have made -[666.42 --> 668.76] shall come and bow down before you, O Lord, -[668.98 --> 670.74] and shall glorify your name. -[671.06 --> 673.60] For you are great and do wonderful things. -[673.90 --> 675.68] You alone are our God. -[675.68 --> 687.56] Blessing and honor, -[688.06 --> 689.84] glory and power, -[690.40 --> 693.80] be unto the ancient of days. -[694.36 --> 696.64] From every nation, -[697.18 --> 698.90] all of creation, -[699.54 --> 702.68] bow before the ancient of days. -[702.68 --> 706.86] Every tongue in heaven and earth -[706.86 --> 708.66] shall declare your glory, -[708.84 --> 711.70] every knee shall bow at your throne. -[712.02 --> 716.54] In worship you will be exalted, O God, -[716.92 --> 721.06] and your kingdom shall not pass away, -[721.06 --> 724.22] all ancient of days. -[727.42 --> 729.20] Blessing and honor, -[729.74 --> 731.50] glory and power, -[731.50 --> 735.68] be unto the ancient of days. -[735.68 --> 738.48] From every nation, -[739.00 --> 740.80] all of creation, -[741.42 --> 744.74] bow before the ancient of days. -[745.74 --> 748.92] Every tongue in heaven and earth -[748.92 --> 750.62] shall declare your glory, -[750.84 --> 753.66] every knee shall bow at your throne. -[754.00 --> 758.46] In worship you will be exalted, O God, -[758.46 --> 762.64] and your kingdom shall not pass away, -[762.64 --> 766.34] O ancient of days. -[768.38 --> 773.76] O kingdom shall reign over all the earth, -[773.76 --> 778.44] sing unto the ancient of days. -[778.44 --> 783.18] For none can compare to your matchless word, -[783.38 --> 786.70] sing unto the ancient of days. -[786.70 --> 790.88] Every tongue in heaven and earth, -[790.88 --> 791.20] every tongue in heaven and earth, -[791.20 --> 793.04] shall declare your glory, -[793.04 --> 796.10] every knee shall bow at your throne. -[796.10 --> 800.82] In worship you will be exalted, O God, -[800.82 --> 804.88] and your kingdom shall not pass away, -[804.88 --> 808.04] O ancient of days. -[808.04 --> 817.48] Father in heaven, -[817.48 --> 834.22] how we love you. -[834.22 --> 841.86] We lift your name in all the earth. -[841.86 --> 847.90] May your kingdom be established in our praises. -[847.90 --> 855.40] As your people declare your mighty works, -[855.40 --> 862.40] Blessed be the Lord God Almighty, -[862.40 --> 869.90] Who as it is and is to come. -[869.90 --> 876.78] Blessed be the Lord God Almighty, -[876.78 --> 888.84] Father of mercy, -[888.84 --> 891.10] Father of mercy be exalted. -[891.10 --> 899.10] May Jesus' name be lifted high. -[899.10 --> 905.28] For the sacrifice of love has won my pardon, -[905.28 --> 912.78] And His resurrection power gives me life. -[912.78 --> 919.24] Blessed be the Lord God Almighty, -[919.24 --> 933.24] Blessed be the Lord God Almighty, -[933.24 --> 940.58] Who reigns forevermore, -[940.58 --> 947.88] Blessed be the Lord God Almighty, -[947.88 --> 975.88] Who reigns forevermore, -[975.88 --> 977.88] And His resurrection power. -[977.88 --> 983.64] Please take a moment to sit as we enter into a time of prayer. -[983.64 --> 986.38] Through our liturgical practices of gathered worship, -[986.38 --> 988.50] we enter into a time of confession, -[988.50 --> 993.06] which invites us to speak words that are remarkably honest about our sins, -[993.06 --> 998.36] words that don't always come so easily in our relationship with God. -[998.36 --> 1001.58] As we engage in these liturgical practices here together, -[1001.58 --> 1003.74] we are equipping ourselves to bring these practices -[1003.74 --> 1007.12] into our everyday experiences of life. -[1007.12 --> 1010.62] Join us as we enter into a time of silent confession, -[1010.62 --> 1012.74] honestly speaking of our sins before God. -[1012.74 --> 1013.74] Amen. -[1013.74 --> 1014.74] Amen. -[1014.74 --> 1015.74] Amen. -[1015.74 --> 1016.74] Amen. -[1016.74 --> 1017.74] Amen. -[1017.74 --> 1018.74] Amen. -[1018.74 --> 1019.74] Amen. -[1019.74 --> 1020.74] Amen. -[1020.74 --> 1021.74] Amen. -[1021.74 --> 1022.74] Amen. -[1022.74 --> 1023.74] Amen. -[1023.74 --> 1024.74] Amen. -[1024.74 --> 1025.74] Amen. -[1025.74 --> 1026.74] Amen. -[1026.74 --> 1027.74] Amen. -[1027.74 --> 1028.74] Amen. -[1028.74 --> 1029.74] Amen. -[1029.74 --> 1030.74] Amen. -[1030.74 --> 1031.74] Amen. -[1031.74 --> 1032.74] Amen. -[1032.74 --> 1033.72] Amen. -[1033.72 --> 1036.72] Amen. -[1036.72 --> 1037.72] Amen. -[1037.72 --> 1038.72] Amen. -[1038.72 --> 1039.72] Amen. -[1039.72 --> 1040.72] Amen. -[1040.72 --> 1041.72] Amen. -[1041.72 --> 1042.72] Amen. -[1042.72 --> 1043.72] Amen. -[1043.72 --> 1044.72] Amen. -[1044.72 --> 1046.72] Amen. -[1046.72 --> 1047.72] Amen. -[1047.72 --> 1048.72] Amen. -[1048.72 --> 1051.72] Amen. -[1051.72 --> 1052.72] Amen. -[1052.72 --> 1053.72] Be sober-minded. -[1053.72 --> 1055.72] Be watchful. -[1055.72 --> 1061.72] Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. -[1061.72 --> 1068.82] devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kind of suffering are being experienced -[1068.82 --> 1074.90] by your family of believers throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, -[1075.60 --> 1081.24] the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, -[1081.24 --> 1088.60] confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen. -[1091.72 --> 1113.42] Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father. -[1113.42 --> 1129.42] There is no shadow of turning with thee. Thou changest not, thy compassions they fail not. -[1129.42 --> 1145.42] As thou hast been, thou forever wilt be. Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[1145.42 --> 1162.24] Morning by morning new mercies I see. All I have needed, thy hand hath provided. -[1162.24 --> 1171.24] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[1173.24 --> 1188.42] Summer and winter and springtime and harvest, sun, moon, and stars in their courses above. -[1188.42 --> 1197.42] Join with all nature in manifold witness. -[1197.42 --> 1205.42] To thy great faithfulness, mercy and love. -[1205.42 --> 1213.42] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[1213.42 --> 1230.42] Morning by morning new mercies I see. All I have needed, thy hand hath provided. -[1230.42 --> 1238.42] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[1238.42 --> 1240.42] God bless you. -[1240.42 --> 1250.42] Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth. -[1250.42 --> 1259.42] Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide. -[1259.42 --> 1261.42] Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow. -[1261.42 --> 1266.42] Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow. -[1266.42 --> 1272.42] Blessings all mine with ten thousand beside. -[1272.42 --> 1284.42] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[1284.42 --> 1288.42] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[1288.42 --> 1306.42] Morning by morning new mercies I see. All I have needed, thy hand hath provided. -[1306.42 --> 1319.42] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[1319.42 --> 1323.42] Join us by standing in our song if you are able. -[1323.42 --> 1342.42] I cry now for your hand of mercy to heal me. -[1342.42 --> 1361.42] I am weak. I need your love to free me. -[1361.42 --> 1371.42] O Lord, my rock, my strength in weakness. -[1371.42 --> 1379.42] Come rescue me, O Lord. -[1379.42 --> 1380.42] You are my heart. -[1380.42 --> 1389.42] You are my heart. Your promise never fails me. -[1389.42 --> 1398.42] And my desire is to follow you forever. -[1398.42 --> 1399.42] For you are good, O Lord, my God. -[1399.42 --> 1420.42] For you are good, O Lord, for you are good, for you are good to me. -[1420.42 --> 1430.42] I cry now for your hand of mercy to heal me. -[1430.42 --> 1439.42] I am weak. I need your love to free me. -[1439.42 --> 1448.42] O Lord, my rock, my strength in weakness. -[1448.42 --> 1456.42] Come rescue me, O Lord. -[1456.42 --> 1457.42] You are my heart. -[1457.42 --> 1466.42] You are my heart. Your promise never fails me. -[1466.42 --> 1475.42] And my desire is to follow you forever. -[1475.42 --> 1484.42] For you are good, for you are good, for you are good to me. -[1484.42 --> 1494.42] For you are good, for you are good, for you are good to me. -[1494.42 --> 1515.42] For you are good, for you are good, for you are good to me. -[1515.42 --> 1536.42] You may be seated. -[1536.42 --> 1537.42] You may be seated. -[1537.42 --> 1539.42] For me is a pleasure to have you seated. -[1539.42 --> 1540.42] I will let you stand up. -[1540.42 --> 1541.42] For you are good, O Lord, my God. -[1541.42 --> 1542.42] Good morning. -[1542.42 --> 1543.42] Thank you. -[1543.42 --> 1544.42] Good morning. -[1544.42 --> 1545.42] Good morning. -[1545.42 --> 1564.42] Can everybody hear me okay? -[1564.42 --> 1569.12] Okay, today's offering is for Emanuel Ministries and Budget. -[1570.06 --> 1573.14] The special offering is for the Langley Food Bank. -[1573.84 --> 1578.04] They serve many people, including families, two times per week. -[1578.90 --> 1581.48] During COVID, many people lost their jobs, -[1582.00 --> 1584.94] and there was quite an increase of people coming for food. -[1585.66 --> 1590.20] At the same time, the number of donations increased, -[1590.20 --> 1597.86] and the people who serve at the Langley Food Bank were amazed at God's provision when they needed it most. -[1598.88 --> 1604.06] Throughout the Bible, God talks about finances a lot. -[1605.00 --> 1611.04] One reason is the way we use money reveals so much about our spiritual commitment. -[1611.04 --> 1621.52] But also because God loves the poor and wants His people to show a compassionate and sympathetic heart toward them. -[1622.52 --> 1625.28] Leviticus 19, verses 9 to 10. -[1626.00 --> 1627.86] Make provision for the poor. -[1628.72 --> 1634.56] When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field. -[1634.56 --> 1641.22] Do not go over your vineyard a second time, or pick the grapes that have fallen. -[1642.28 --> 1644.80] Leave them for the poor and the foreigner. -[1645.62 --> 1647.26] I am the Lord your God. -[1647.26 --> 1648.26] Amen. -[1664.56 --> 1665.56] Amen. -[1677.14 --> 1677.62] Amen. -[1677.62 --> 1681.78] Amen. -[1681.84 --> 1682.24] Amen. -[1682.24 --> 1686.66] Amen. -[1686.66 --> 1687.38] Amen. -[1687.38 --> 1688.02] Amen. -[1688.02 --> 1688.92] Amen. -[1689.00 --> 1689.64] Amen. -[1689.82 --> 1690.34] Amen. -[1690.34 --> 1690.38] Amen. -[1690.38 --> 1690.60] Amen. -[1690.88 --> 1691.48] Amen. -[1691.48 --> 1691.58] Amen. -[1691.58 --> 1692.54] Amen. -[1692.54 --> 1693.04] Amen. -[1693.04 --> 1693.60] enough. -[1693.60 --> 1694.22] Amen. -[1694.22 --> 1724.20] Thank you. -[1724.22 --> 1754.20] Thank you. -[1754.22 --> 1784.20] Thank you. -[1784.22 --> 1814.20] Thank you. -[1814.20 --> 1815.20] Hey guys, welcome to church. -[1815.28 --> 1816.24] Nice to see you again. -[1817.14 --> 1818.32] You already have things to say. -[1818.44 --> 1820.26] Can I ask a few questions of you guys first? -[1820.40 --> 1822.38] And then we're going to go to children's worship time. -[1823.68 --> 1828.20] Hey, do you guys ever, are you guys ever afraid of anything? -[1828.32 --> 1832.20] Anything you really don't like having around? -[1832.28 --> 1833.18] What do you have in your mind? -[1833.18 --> 1834.18] What do you think, Malachi? -[1834.18 --> 1837.00] Oh, the dark and clouds? -[1837.70 --> 1837.94] Yeah. -[1838.56 --> 1839.22] Oh, clouds. -[1839.84 --> 1842.36] Yeah, well, let's not get started on... -[1842.36 --> 1843.26] What do you think, Malachi? -[1845.90 --> 1846.22] Dogs? -[1846.32 --> 1847.66] Sometimes dogs can be a little bit scary. -[1847.72 --> 1848.30] What do you think, Zoe? -[1848.80 --> 1854.12] Oh, the dark in your bedroom. -[1854.12 --> 1854.50] I know. -[1855.24 --> 1856.96] Yeah, that sometimes you get a bad dream. -[1857.12 --> 1857.86] What do you think, Haley? -[1860.42 --> 1861.40] Oh, bad dreams. -[1861.50 --> 1861.76] I know. -[1861.84 --> 1863.24] Nobody likes a bad dream, right? -[1863.32 --> 1863.94] I had a friend. -[1864.02 --> 1865.62] She was really scared of rabbits. -[1867.06 --> 1868.30] What would make a good dream? -[1869.54 --> 1871.06] Oh, bless your heart. -[1871.06 --> 1873.80] Thank you if I would make a good dream. -[1873.92 --> 1875.48] That's nice of you to say. -[1876.22 --> 1876.38] Yeah. -[1877.96 --> 1879.70] Oh, a candy cane dream. -[1879.80 --> 1880.40] Good one. -[1880.58 --> 1880.88] Yeah. -[1881.72 --> 1883.50] You know, sometimes I'm afraid of step two. -[1883.62 --> 1887.62] I was afraid that I'd planned the wrong children's message for today. -[1888.16 --> 1888.82] So that... -[1888.82 --> 1889.52] But don't worry. -[1889.64 --> 1890.16] Don't worry. -[1890.24 --> 1891.46] We got it straightened out. -[1891.78 --> 1892.42] So that went okay. -[1892.66 --> 1894.12] And I have someone in my family. -[1894.24 --> 1896.16] They're terrified of snakes. -[1897.10 --> 1897.54] Right? -[1897.68 --> 1898.20] Not good. -[1898.28 --> 1898.82] I won't say. -[1898.82 --> 1899.42] I won't say. -[1900.34 --> 1901.18] Cool candy. -[1906.08 --> 1906.76] Oh, yeah. -[1906.90 --> 1907.18] Snakes. -[1907.28 --> 1908.24] They can be pretty tricky. -[1908.90 --> 1910.90] Any other thoughts, Allie? -[1911.84 --> 1912.48] Pardon me. -[1913.20 --> 1913.96] You love snakes. -[1914.14 --> 1914.74] You know what? -[1914.76 --> 1916.00] That's a great thing to say. -[1916.10 --> 1919.80] Sometimes things we're scared of, really, we don't need to be so scared of them. -[1920.10 --> 1923.06] So we're going to talk about that more in children's worship time today. -[1923.26 --> 1925.26] We have a little science experiment to do. -[1925.26 --> 1931.72] And then we're going to talk about why we really don't need to be afraid of some of the things we are sometimes afraid of. -[1932.34 --> 1932.54] Okay. -[1932.58 --> 1933.98] Well, let's do the children's blessing first. -[1934.12 --> 1936.78] And then we will go off to children's worship time. -[1938.18 --> 1938.98] Let's stand. -[1939.08 --> 1940.74] And the congregation can stand with us. -[1941.48 --> 1942.20] Arms up. -[1944.26 --> 1944.70] Ready? -[1944.70 --> 1947.26] The Lord be with you. -[1949.64 --> 1950.06] All right. -[1950.12 --> 1951.52] Let's go into children's worship time. -[1951.52 --> 1951.92] All right. -[1954.18 --> 1955.68] All right. -[1955.86 --> 1955.96] Let's stand. -[1956.88 --> 1957.20] All right. -[1957.26 --> 1958.60] Let's stand. -[1962.78 --> 1966.82] All right. -[1971.88 --> 1972.80] Let's stand. -[1972.88 --> 1973.02] All right. -[1973.02 --> 1973.42] All right. -[1973.42 --> 1973.62] All right. -[1973.62 --> 1974.00] Let's ask. -[1974.04 --> 1974.14] All right. -[1974.14 --> 1993.16] I'm Eric Hubertz, an elder here at Emmanuel CRC, and I'll lead you in our church family prayer. -[1994.16 --> 1999.20] I lift my eyes up to the mountains. Where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, -[1999.20 --> 2004.34] the maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip. He will watch over you and will -[2004.34 --> 2010.98] not slumber. Indeed, he who watches Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord watches over -[2010.98 --> 2017.56] you. The Lord is your shade at your right foot. The sun will not harm you by day, the moon by night. -[2018.10 --> 2023.76] The Lord will keep you from harm. He will watch over your life. The Lord will watch your coming -[2023.76 --> 2030.38] and going now and forevermore. Lord, at this time, we pray for some of the situations around the world, -[2030.86 --> 2035.46] in particular right now, Ukraine with the possibility of war. We pray for everyone's safety, -[2035.90 --> 2040.40] that the leaders of both these countries would come to be a peaceful resolution and that war -[2040.40 --> 2045.70] would be avoided. We pray for all levels of government around the world as we continue -[2045.70 --> 2051.94] to deal with the ongoing COVID situation around the world. We pray that those infected the virus -[2051.94 --> 2058.54] will recover soon. We also think of the people who are struggling with other ailments. Please bring -[2058.54 --> 2064.16] healing and comfort where needed. For those who care for the family members with illnesses, -[2064.68 --> 2071.34] we pray for a measure of grace and strength. Bless the work of our health workers. It has been a -[2071.34 --> 2075.62] difficult task working very long hours. We pray for their daily encouragement for them, -[2075.88 --> 2081.58] and they would get the rest they need in their days off. Lord, you know our spring break mission team -[2081.58 --> 2085.96] will be leaving next month. Bless the fundraising and planning for the youth and the leaders going. -[2086.30 --> 2091.96] We pray that you will keep them healthy so they can go on their trip and prepare the hearts of those -[2091.96 --> 2099.08] in Mexico they will be meeting. We also think of Jody and Ariel and their ministry. Help them be your light -[2099.18 --> 2106.18] to those they minister to. We also think of our Emmanuel team walkers participating in this year's -[2106.18 --> 2113.44] coldest night walk on February 26, raising awareness and funds to support the work of the gateway of hope, -[2113.82 --> 2119.78] serving the hungry, hurting, and homeless in Langley. Let their walk bring awareness and financial support -[2119.78 --> 2126.28] where it is needed for this cause. We pray and thank you for all the levels of leadership and volunteers -[2126.28 --> 2133.46] here at Emmanuel. Thank you for the time they put in serving your people. Give us the grace. We work -[2133.46 --> 2140.84] together with unity in times of decision-making. Rejoice in the Lord always. I say it again, rejoice. -[2140.84 --> 2145.68] Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Amen. -[2156.28 --> 2176.30] We are going to jump right into our text today, which is going to continue on our series in Exodus. -[2176.30 --> 2182.92] We're going to open our Bibles to Exodus chapter 12 and read verses 31 to 42. Like I mentioned, -[2182.92 --> 2188.64] we've been going through this series in Exodus for the last month and a half, a half. The last few -[2188.64 --> 2194.24] weeks we've looked at the plagues. Last week, Pastor Chris talked about the final plague, the Passover -[2194.24 --> 2199.60] and the death of the firstborn of every house in Egypt. And today we're going to look at what -[2199.60 --> 2206.50] Pharaoh's response was to especially that final plague. And it's the story of the beginning of the -[2206.50 --> 2211.02] Exodus. So if you've got your Bibles, open them up with you. If you're at home, please do the same. -[2211.02 --> 2217.68] The verses will be on the screen behind me as well. And read with me chapter 12, verses 31 to 42. -[2218.82 --> 2219.44] There we read, -[2220.20 --> 2224.06] During the night, Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and said, -[2224.60 --> 2230.62] Up, leave my people, you and the Israelites. Go worship the Lord as you have requested. -[2231.14 --> 2235.90] Take your flocks and herds as you said and go. And also bless me. -[2235.90 --> 2241.60] The Egyptians urged the people to hurry and leave the country, for otherwise they said, -[2241.70 --> 2247.74] We will all die. So the people took their dough before the yeast was added and carried it on their -[2247.74 --> 2254.90] shoulders in kneading troughs wrapped in clothing. The Israelites did as Moses instructed and asked the -[2254.90 --> 2261.58] Egyptians for articles of silver and gold and for clothing. The Lord had made the Egyptians favorably -[2261.58 --> 2267.14] disposed towards the people, and they gave them what they asked for. So they plundered the Egyptians. -[2268.26 --> 2274.60] The Israelites journeyed from Ramses to Succoth. There were about 600,000 men on foot besides women -[2274.60 --> 2281.02] and children. Many other people went with them, and also large droves of livestock, both flocks and herds. -[2281.30 --> 2285.50] With the dough the Israelites had brought from Egypt, they baked loaves of unleavened bread. -[2285.50 --> 2291.44] The dough was without yeast because they had been driven out of Egypt and did not have time to -[2291.44 --> 2299.14] prepare food for themselves. Now the length of time the Israelite people lived in Egypt was 430 years. -[2299.94 --> 2307.52] At the end of 430 years to the very day, all the Lord's divisions left Egypt. Because the Lord kept -[2307.52 --> 2312.60] vigil that night to bring them out of Egypt, on this night all the Israelites are to keep vigil -[2312.60 --> 2319.36] in honor and to honor the Lord for the generations to come. The word of the Lord. -[2321.68 --> 2329.00] One of the best commercials I have seen in recent memory had to do with his buddy. He was calling his -[2329.00 --> 2332.64] friend on the phone. He was very excited. He called his friend and said, hey, I just got an email from a -[2332.64 --> 2338.64] Nigerian prince. The prince is in trouble. He needs my help. He's got a small fortune he's trying to get out -[2338.64 --> 2343.46] of the country. But for bureaucratic reasons, he can't do that. And so for a small sum of $500, -[2343.90 --> 2348.44] I'll send him to secure the transfer and then he's going to pay me a hundred grand for helping. -[2349.88 --> 2353.06] This friend on the line sounded a bit annoyed. He's like, dude, I got the same email. -[2354.72 --> 2359.28] And his buddy says, well, you know what that means. And his buddy's like, yeah, we're going to be rich. -[2359.58 --> 2361.68] And they both started jumping up and down. They were very excited. -[2361.68 --> 2365.66] But it's a hilarious commercial. It's actually a terrible commercial because for the life of me, -[2365.72 --> 2370.78] I cannot remember what they were like advertising for. Like I cannot Dr. Pepper, maybe. I don't know. -[2371.46 --> 2378.10] Insurance, Tupperware, it doesn't matter. The point is we can roll our eyes at that because these guys -[2378.10 --> 2387.04] succumb to the big scam that had swept the nations about 10 years ago. The Nigerian prince scam is a tale -[2387.04 --> 2393.34] as old as time. And while it's easy for us to roll our eyes at that, perhaps, the thing is we are all hurt -[2393.34 --> 2397.24] by broken promises. These guys were about to be hurt by a promise made by some Nigerian prince. -[2397.88 --> 2402.94] But we're all hurt by broken promises. They suck. Broken promises suck. We've been hurt by friends. -[2403.02 --> 2409.48] We've been hurt by family because of promises people didn't keep to us. I'll always be there for you, -[2409.48 --> 2416.54] they say, and then they're not. I won't tell anyone. Then they do. I'll call you later. -[2417.48 --> 2421.44] Then they don't. We make promises to ourselves, actually, that hurt us as well. I'll get in shape -[2421.44 --> 2432.00] soon. Nope. I won't tell anyone. And then we do. I'll stop drinking. Yeah, really? I'll study tomorrow. -[2432.40 --> 2438.74] That one gets me still. We see it with money. We're promised if we invest in this stock or in that -[2438.74 --> 2443.12] portfolio, things will be great. And then depressions or recessions hit and our investments fall through -[2443.12 --> 2449.12] and we're left with nothing or at least a lot less than we were promised. More than that, our world -[2449.12 --> 2454.14] promises us that if we just have that one more thing, if we just have that one more thing, we'll be happy. -[2454.32 --> 2459.98] You just need that house. You just need that yard, that car, that hot tub, that game, that phone, -[2460.36 --> 2466.32] that... and you fill in the blank. You get that, you'll be happy. Say, advertisements everywhere. -[2466.32 --> 2473.14] And then, of course, there's the biggest broken promise that is just dividing our culture right -[2473.14 --> 2481.16] now. Till death do us part. Divorce rates have climbed steady for the last 22 years and as of -[2481.16 --> 2486.58] 2021, 40% of Canadian marriages end in divorce. In America, that number is over 50%. -[2486.58 --> 2494.00] A flip side of that coin, we look at singleness as a problem that needs solving rather than a lifestyle -[2494.00 --> 2498.52] that we should celebrate. We promise single people in our lives, if you get married, life will get better. -[2500.36 --> 2502.32] And yet the statistics show otherwise, don't they? -[2504.34 --> 2509.72] But for single people, the promise of a future spouse fuels their hope. And ironically, for half of -[2509.72 --> 2517.10] married people out there, the promise of becoming single again fuels theirs. To be put our hope in -[2517.10 --> 2522.62] these promises, these promises of ourselves, these promises of others, or our marital status, or our -[2522.62 --> 2530.22] wealth, but these promises get shattered and they leave us lost and hurt and staggering around. -[2532.10 --> 2536.60] I'm going to double down on this one more time to make it for our current context here. -[2536.60 --> 2542.64] Some of us are currently putting our hope in a government, a government promising that they will -[2542.64 --> 2549.26] keep us safe and well. We put our hope in that. On the other side, there's some of us that are putting -[2549.26 --> 2553.56] our hope in a trucker's convoy, thinking that we're going to get our rights and freedoms back by them, -[2553.66 --> 2560.48] freedoms and rights that we suppose we've lost. And you know what? Some of you are going to be very -[2560.48 --> 2568.16] disappointed in those promises. All of us are putting our hope in promises somewhere. -[2569.44 --> 2579.04] Our hope in some promise. But the problem is, our hope cannot be put in the promises of man. -[2579.66 --> 2584.80] Time and time again, these man-made promises, they are proven to become fickle. Our hope, -[2584.80 --> 2591.36] they must be rooted in the promises of God. And that's what this text today is all about. -[2592.64 --> 2601.60] God's promises have to be our hope because God's word stands. The promises of God are the only -[2601.60 --> 2607.22] promises that we can put our hope in because anything else will leave us empty. And while it -[2607.22 --> 2612.66] might be hard to see at first glance, this text today is all about God's promises. There's a bunch of -[2612.66 --> 2617.86] promises fulfilled in those 12 verses today, and we're going to look at three of them. Each one of -[2617.86 --> 2622.80] those promises point to Christ, and each one of those promises continues to be true for each one of us -[2622.80 --> 2628.38] today. So, promise number one. The first promise we're going to look at is that all the Israelites -[2628.38 --> 2635.56] will leave the land rich. Way back in Genesis 15 verse 14, God says, he says this, he says, -[2635.56 --> 2641.90] he will punish the nation that enslaves his people, and his people will come away with great possessions. -[2642.66 --> 2649.64] Well, in verse 35 and 36 of our text today, this comes true. They're told to leave, and as they leave, -[2650.00 --> 2655.70] they ask the Egyptians for gold and silver, and the Egyptians just give it to them. -[2656.90 --> 2663.18] This is the easiest pillaging of a nation in the history of man. The Egyptians just give them their -[2663.18 --> 2667.34] gold and silver, letting the Israelites walk away with a tremendous amount of wealth. -[2667.34 --> 2675.66] God kept his promise to the Israelites, and they plundered the Egyptians by simply asking them. -[2677.04 --> 2681.78] God wanted to make sure that his people left with gifts, gifts of gold and gifts of silver, -[2681.92 --> 2686.96] wealth that they could use on their journey to build things, trade with, start a nation with. -[2688.50 --> 2696.82] God saved his people from the bondage of the Egyptians, and he vacated them from Egypt with gifts. -[2697.34 --> 2707.80] Thousands of years later, Jesus does the same, and he vacates the grave with gifts for his people. -[2707.88 --> 2713.16] You see, God's people, they were still in captivity. They just weren't in captivity to the Egyptians, -[2713.44 --> 2718.66] but to their own sinfulness. They were stuck in it. They were mired in the ways of this world, -[2718.66 --> 2726.00] and they couldn't get out. And so Jesus, he came into the world, and he lived a life worthy of being -[2726.00 --> 2733.62] called the righteous one. And then he took all of God's sin, or all of people's sin, God placed on -[2733.62 --> 2738.44] Jesus. I got to get that sentence right. That's really important. He took all of mankind's sin -[2738.44 --> 2743.76] and placed it on Jesus' shoulders, where he took it to the cross, and he died, -[2743.76 --> 2749.92] and he relieved the world of the sin and shame. He then rose again from the grave, -[2750.24 --> 2756.50] freeing his people from the bondage of sin and death forever, and he gave them gifts of forgiveness, -[2756.98 --> 2765.18] of love, of grace, and of mercy. Gifts that are so much greater than gold or silver. Jesus freed his -[2765.18 --> 2770.98] people from captivity, and he didn't simply save us, but he gave us gifts of love, -[2771.66 --> 2779.86] so that we, like the Egyptians, can leave our captivity rich. Proverbs 8, 19 says, -[2780.22 --> 2785.48] God's gifts are better than gold, and what God gives surpasses choice silver. -[2787.86 --> 2791.74] Maybe sometimes it's hard to wrap our heads around. This is all Christianese, perhaps, -[2791.74 --> 2795.62] if you've heard this over and over again. I mean, I'm not going to lie. I'd take some gold or silver -[2795.62 --> 2800.10] in my life. Wouldn't mind paying off a little bit of the mortgage. You talk to any 20-something in our -[2800.10 --> 2805.26] church, I bet you they would too. It's hard to get a down deposit in this economy we find ourselves in. -[2806.26 --> 2814.08] But gold, silver, those things are finite. Money comes and goes. When we get it, we save it, -[2814.08 --> 2822.40] or we spend it, and then we want more. We always want more. And then you die, and all of that is meaningless. -[2823.96 --> 2830.16] Whatever figurative gold or silver you've stored up or spent, it means nothing in the midst of eternity. -[2831.92 --> 2838.42] But God's gifts of grace, that's eternal. His mercy is forever. His love is endless. -[2838.42 --> 2844.48] And once you have it, you have it forever, for eternity. It never goes away. Jesus came to offer -[2844.48 --> 2852.50] you an eternity of sinless, pain-free, joy-filled life in the new heaven and the new earth. And he -[2852.50 --> 2859.46] came to save you from the captivity that binds us all, to take away our sin, our fears, our anxieties, -[2859.62 --> 2868.20] all the traumas and the pain, the worry, the grief, all of that. To have all of that removed is priceless. -[2868.20 --> 2874.08] You can't pay your way out of anxiety. Money can't keep you from pain. -[2876.10 --> 2882.44] Sin lurks within wealth. But an eternal life because of grace, mercy, forgiveness, -[2883.34 --> 2889.38] it trumps gold and silver every time. Like the Israelites, God promised that you will leave this -[2889.38 --> 2897.36] land, this sinful world, rich, rich in love and mercy and grace, rich beyond anything this world can -[2897.36 --> 2904.90] offer. And we know that that is true because God's word stands. That was promise number one. -[2905.00 --> 2910.44] Promise number two. Promise number two in this text was that God's people would become a great nation. -[2911.30 --> 2917.64] Again, way back in Genesis 12, God says to Abraham, I will make you a great nation. He said that to one -[2917.64 --> 2924.38] person. Well, Abraham had a son named Isaac. Isaac had a son named Jacob. Jacob then had 12 sons, -[2924.38 --> 2930.24] one of which was Joseph. And it was those 12 sons with their wives and their kids that settled down -[2930.24 --> 2939.40] in Egypt 400 years later. They were a group of about 70 people, a family of 70. And they settled -[2939.40 --> 2944.36] down in Egypt. Well, how big did this family of 70 get? Well, our text tells us. Verse 37 of our text -[2944.36 --> 2952.48] today says that there was about 600,000 men on foot besides women and children. If you simply -[2952.48 --> 2958.00] doubled that number, assumed that there's the same amount of women as men, you're at 1.2 million. -[2959.40 --> 2964.44] Sprinkle in some kids and being aware that this is a different culture than we are in right now, -[2964.48 --> 2970.48] and people didn't just have one. Most scholars agree that conservatively, there would have been at -[2970.48 --> 2979.06] least two and a half million Israelites leaving Egypt. Two and a half million people. That is a lot -[2979.06 --> 2985.22] of people. Out of the 195 countries that exist in our world right now, 88 of them have less people -[2985.22 --> 2993.36] than that. 2.5 million people is the population of Chicago. Or to Canadianize that for you, it's Calgary -[2993.36 --> 3000.46] twice over. It's Vancouver four times. It's the city of Langley 100 times. This is not a small group -[3000.46 --> 3007.14] of people. This is a giant nation of people. I think when we see movies on the Exodus, or maybe we -[3007.14 --> 3013.14] picture things in our kids' children's Bibles, I don't think we truly grasp the scope of how big -[3013.14 --> 3019.28] this nation was, and how major and miraculous this whole event was. And honestly, how miraculous the -[3019.28 --> 3026.38] next 40 years of the Israelites' existence is going to be. There's this guy, his name's Dr. Danny -[3026.38 --> 3031.36] Kellum. He's a headmaster of a Christian academy, the Donaldson Christian Academy, and he was curious -[3031.36 --> 3037.02] when he heard how big this nation was. So he met with, he's in the States, he met with an American -[3037.02 --> 3041.20] quartermaster general of the army. So the guy that's in charge of like the logistics of the army. -[3041.60 --> 3047.78] And he met with him, and he asked some questions about how you would maintain a group that large -[3047.78 --> 3052.68] in the wilderness. And so according to them, these are the numbers that this quartermaster general -[3052.68 --> 3057.60] said. Now I've converted all of the units to the metric system because the imperial system is -[3057.60 --> 3064.40] nonsense. But they said this, here's some numbers. They said they had to cross the Sea of Reeds in one -[3064.40 --> 3069.48] night. And I think we're going to get to the story next week. If they went in a narrow path like you -[3069.48 --> 3075.12] see in the movies, two by two across the Red Sea, or the Sea of Reeds, that line would have had to be -[3075.12 --> 3082.52] 1,200 kilometers long, and it would have taken them 35 days to cross. So there had to be an opening in -[3082.52 --> 3090.34] the sea, five kilometers wide, so 5,000 people could walk, like abreast, 5,000 people abreast could -[3090.34 --> 3094.74] walk through it to make it through in one night. When they were in the wilderness, the people would -[3094.74 --> 3101.08] have needed, according to this guy, two million kilograms of food each day. To bring in that much -[3101.08 --> 3105.84] food, in today's perspective, they would have needed a freight train that's five kilometers long -[3105.84 --> 3113.56] every day. In the wilderness, they needed firewood to keep warm, to cook, to boil their water. Each -[3113.56 --> 3117.26] day, it's estimated by this quartermaster that they would have needed three and a half million -[3117.26 --> 3123.76] kilograms of wood. That's another freight train, but this one's 10 kilometers long. This one blew my -[3123.76 --> 3128.48] mind. They needed water, of course. Now, granted, they probably stumbled on water here and there, but -[3128.48 --> 3133.94] they needed water. They needed a lot of it. If they only had enough to drink and maybe cook and wash a few -[3133.94 --> 3143.10] things, they would have needed 50 million liters of water each day. Buckle up. That's a freight train -[3143.10 --> 3150.54] with, like, those water-carrying tank cars that's 2,900 kilometers long. That's here to Winnipeg, -[3151.02 --> 3157.36] down Highway 1. That's how far that train is. Now, finally, each time they camped that night, they would -[3157.36 --> 3164.02] have needed a space roughly 2,000 square kilometers to set up camp that's a little bit bigger than the -[3164.02 --> 3171.70] Hawaiian island of Maui, or, to Canadianize it, half of Prince Edward Island. My brain can't actually -[3171.70 --> 3176.78] compute that. It has a hard time wrapping around those numbers, and some of you might want to -[3176.78 --> 3180.98] challenge that. Maybe they didn't need two million kilograms of food. Maybe they needed one kilogram. -[3180.98 --> 3185.94] That actually doesn't matter. The point is, it's not eight kilograms of food. A jumbo pack of meat -[3185.94 --> 3193.62] from Costco wouldn't have done them. They needed a lot. That's how big this nation got. That's how -[3193.62 --> 3200.18] much stuff they needed, and that's what they needed to rely on their God for each and every day in the -[3200.18 --> 3209.30] wilderness. The Exodus wasn't this little walk out of Egypt. This was a ginormous mass of 2.5 million -[3209.30 --> 3219.34] people up and leaving Egypt to rely on God for food, for water, and all necessities in the wilderness. -[3220.00 --> 3226.38] I can barely keep track of my three daughters at a grocery store. I can't imagine 2.5 million people -[3226.38 --> 3230.26] in the wilderness, but God promised they would be a great nation, and a great nation they became, -[3230.46 --> 3237.20] and that growth did not stop there. The story continues, and they eventually settle in a new land. -[3237.20 --> 3241.84] Over the next couple thousand years, they conquer, and they grow, and then they get conquered. -[3242.82 --> 3247.52] Then all the while, God is watching his people, and he's with their circumstances, and while everything -[3247.52 --> 3253.18] changes, these people sin, and they go into exile, but God is there, and he is watching. -[3255.44 --> 3261.42] And then Jesus comes, and he comes not only to save his people, but he comes to save the whole cosmos, -[3261.42 --> 3266.18] and he lives this life according to the will of God the Father, and he takes on those sins, -[3266.42 --> 3273.22] not just for his people, but for the entire world. He takes on the entire world's sin. -[3275.08 --> 3279.50] Those who have come before, and those who have yet to come, and then he dies, and he takes all of that -[3279.50 --> 3285.96] to the grave with them, and he rises back to life on the third day, and he redefines the parameters -[3285.96 --> 3293.26] of this great nation once and for all. No more are they a nation defined by the borders of Israel, -[3293.46 --> 3299.78] but they are a people designed, or defined, sorry, by a shared faith in Jesus. No more are they people -[3299.78 --> 3304.70] defined by the mark of circumcision, like the Old Testament said, but they are a people defined by -[3304.70 --> 3311.64] the mark of baptism. No more are they a people defined by the family blood of Abraham that runs -[3311.64 --> 3318.02] through their veins. They are a people defined by the salvific blood that Jesus poured out for -[3318.02 --> 3325.08] everyone who calls him their Lord. This great nation got even greater through Jesus Christ. -[3325.40 --> 3329.28] Romans 8, 9 says, it is not the children by physical descent who are God's children, -[3329.58 --> 3335.54] but it is the children of the promise who are regarded as Abraham's offspring. Galatians 3, 29, -[3335.74 --> 3341.08] if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed and heirs according to the promise. You see, -[3341.08 --> 3346.72] this great hope that we have is that we are not in this life alone. God promised his people that -[3346.72 --> 3352.44] they would become a great nation, and we continue to grow and become great. Now we live in this world -[3352.44 --> 3358.98] where churches span continents, where no race and no language separates the body of Christ, and we can -[3358.98 --> 3365.18] look forward to the day, as Revelation 7, 9 says, where a great multitude, where no one can count, -[3365.18 --> 3372.64] from every nation and tribe and people and language will stand before the throne and before the Lamb. -[3373.86 --> 3381.14] And in this world, where maybe we feel isolated often, where we feel alone because we have been -[3381.14 --> 3390.82] stranded, where we've been hurt by broken promises, if we lean on this promise of God, and we know that -[3390.82 --> 3396.38] there is a community out there, a community of believers here for you, that can change the tide, -[3396.46 --> 3401.86] that can make the difference. Hebrews 12 talks about this cloud of witnesses. -[3403.46 --> 3407.72] And I think rightfully, we look at that cloud and we think of people that we know who have died before -[3407.72 --> 3413.10] us, our grandparents perhaps, people we love and know. But I think by doing that, we sometimes minimize -[3413.10 --> 3420.02] this cloud of witnesses. This cloud is massive. It's billions of people strong. -[3422.10 --> 3429.20] And you are part of that community. You are part of that body. You're part of this church. -[3430.50 --> 3436.96] Lean into the blessings of God, this promise that you are a part of a great nation, because God's word -[3436.96 --> 3437.64] stands. -[3437.64 --> 3446.52] Finally, the third promise we'll look at today. God promised that his people would be a blessing to -[3446.52 --> 3451.48] all nations. Again, back in Genesis 12, God says to Abraham, I will make your name great, and you will -[3451.48 --> 3460.30] be a blessing, and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you. Our text shows two examples of -[3460.30 --> 3467.08] this being fulfilled. First, Pharaoh, after persevering through all ten plagues, he finally listens to God, -[3467.08 --> 3471.98] and he caves, and he tells Moses and the Israelites, you guys go, get out of here. But not before one -[3471.98 --> 3478.34] last request that he makes. He makes that in verse 32 of our text. He says, go, take your flocks and your -[3478.34 --> 3489.06] herds, and go, and also bless me. And bless me, he says. Remember, in Egypt, Pharaoh was considered a god, -[3489.06 --> 3498.12] and yet this god, this pharaoh god, now looked to the one true god, and he asked to be blessed by him. -[3500.46 --> 3507.46] Pharaoh had become an enemy of God. Well, enemies of God become enemies of themselves, and sooner or -[3507.46 --> 3515.50] later, they are made to see that. Well, this was Pharaoh seeing that, and in that moment, whether it was fear, -[3515.50 --> 3522.94] or humility, or an honest realization, he knew who God was, and he asked to be blessed by him. -[3524.54 --> 3529.16] The second example from my text is verse 38. It's just a little line in there, but it's really important. -[3529.90 --> 3536.16] We read there that many other people left with them, meaning a non-Israelite, a diverse crowd, -[3536.30 --> 3542.82] up and left with them too. Non-Israelites saw what was happening, and they wanted in. They wanted to be a -[3542.82 --> 3550.48] part of that. Verse 38. This is reinforced, actually, in the verses immediately following -[3550.48 --> 3555.74] our text today. In the verses immediately following our text, instructions are given on how to include -[3555.74 --> 3560.72] these non-Israelite people into their traditions. Instructions on how to include these people -[3560.72 --> 3564.04] so that they could join in the celebration of the Passover. -[3564.04 --> 3569.98] God's people were going, and they were going to be a blessing to all nation. -[3571.20 --> 3575.68] As part of this great nation now, as part of this church, this is our calling as well. -[3576.62 --> 3579.72] This third promise is actually the culmination of the first two. -[3580.84 --> 3585.80] God promises to give us gifts, which we received from Jesus in the form of grace, mercy, forgiveness, -[3585.80 --> 3591.56] and love. And he promised that we are a great nation, one of his children, this body of believers, -[3591.68 --> 3597.60] this church. And now his church, with these gifts, we are to go and to be a blessing to those around us. -[3599.18 --> 3604.18] God has been fulfilling that promise throughout history. Just look at schools and hospitals, -[3604.44 --> 3610.20] shelters and charities, areas of engineering or science or business, all of them, and many more, -[3610.20 --> 3615.28] have been impacted and started even by Christ followers throughout history. -[3616.98 --> 3620.64] We are called to be a blessing to those around us. -[3623.44 --> 3627.80] Bob Goffey wrote this book called Love Does, and in this book he tells this story. I think it's -[3627.80 --> 3632.86] quite fascinating. He said that him and his wife were on vacation, and they were out touring sort of -[3632.86 --> 3637.60] the west coast of America. And one night they pulled into this small town. It was late. They pulled into -[3637.60 --> 3642.04] this small town, and they went into the hotel, and they booked a room, and then they talked to the -[3642.04 --> 3645.96] concierge. And the concierge was super nice. He was super nice to them. He's like, oh yeah, welcome to -[3645.96 --> 3649.44] town. It's so good to see you. You know, and they asked him questions, and he said, oh there's this -[3649.44 --> 3653.20] beautiful restaurant just down the way. If you're hungry, head there. Good prices, good people, check -[3653.20 --> 3657.08] it out. So they're like, oh the concierge is super nice. Let's listen to him. And so they went. They went to -[3657.08 --> 3661.00] that restaurant. They were hungry. They went to the restaurant, and they had a server there, and the server served them -[3661.00 --> 3667.34] their food and their drinks. And he was very nice too, very chatty. He gave them all sorts of -[3667.34 --> 3671.44] stuff, gave them tips, talked about his family history, stuff. They had a lovely time for dinner, and then -[3671.44 --> 3676.24] he suggested, why don't you go downtown and walk the boardwalk by the water? It's lovely there. And so -[3676.24 --> 3680.28] they did. They listened to him too. They went down by, and they met this girl. She was a musician sitting -[3680.28 --> 3684.04] on the street. She looked to be quite well off though, but she was just playing, and they listened, and they -[3684.04 --> 3688.74] enjoyed the music. And then they talked to her, and learned a bit about her story, and gave her a little -[3688.74 --> 3693.26] bit of money for playing music, and were really blessed by her as well. And you know, they chatted up. She was super -[3693.26 --> 3697.22] nice. They went back to their hotel, went to bed, got up the next morning, -[3697.22 --> 3701.94] and continued on their way. As they were driving, they met some other people, and they said, oh, we -[3701.94 --> 3707.70] were just in that small town. The people there are lovely. It is such a nice town. And then they -[3707.70 --> 3711.58] continued on, and Bob Goff, he realized, he talked to his wife about this after. He's like, we actually -[3711.58 --> 3717.52] have no idea if that town's nice. We know that those three people were. Those were the only three people -[3717.52 --> 3724.44] we met in that town, and yet those three people affected our opinion of that town. And now in our minds, -[3724.44 --> 3732.62] that's known as the nice town. There are people in this world that will only know Jesus because of -[3732.62 --> 3740.20] you and maybe one or two others. Their opinion on being a Jesus follower has to do with their run-ins -[3740.20 --> 3747.24] with two or three people, and you might be one of them. In fact, I dare say you are all one of them -[3747.24 --> 3753.20] in someone's life, and they will base their opinions on our Lord and Savior on their interactions with -[3753.20 --> 3761.42] you and a few others. So the question is, what is their opinion of Jesus going to be based on their -[3761.42 --> 3767.88] interactions with you? We are called to be a blessing to all nations. Jesus is going to make that true. -[3767.88 --> 3773.58] Will you join him in that? I'm going to conclude with this, so stay with me here for this last -[3773.58 --> 3778.50] little bit. I think sometimes we hear a message like this, and maybe we think, sure, it seems like -[3778.50 --> 3783.22] a bit of a stretch, though. A random 12 verses in the middle of this narrative in Exodus, and you're -[3783.22 --> 3789.08] going to connect it to three promises of God made 400 years earlier, and then to Jesus Christ who came -[3789.08 --> 3795.64] 2,000 years later. Seems like a stretch. Seems like you might be reaching a bit. But the thing is, -[3795.64 --> 3801.22] it's not. It's not reaching at all. That's the beauty of this story, and I don't just mean this -[3801.22 --> 3805.76] story of the passage that we read today. I don't even mean this book of Exodus story. I mean the -[3805.76 --> 3813.20] whole grand narrative of Scripture, the Bible, everything in that book points to Jesus, and Jesus -[3813.20 --> 3820.90] is the culmination of God's promises and his redemption plan. See, the danger is not to look at a text like -[3820.90 --> 3825.62] this and think it's a stretch to connect it to Christ and the gospel truth found in him three times. -[3825.64 --> 3832.64] No. The danger is becoming so complacent with the promises of God in our lives that we forget -[3832.64 --> 3840.88] their power. We forget their majesty. We forget how vital God's promises are to our lives each and -[3840.88 --> 3849.74] every week, each and every day. We forget how important Jesus' life, death, resurrection are -[3849.74 --> 3859.08] to our eternal lives. And we gloss over a story like this, not realizing that this is a perfect example -[3859.08 --> 3868.04] about how God has come through for us time and time again. And so yes, this is a story that reveals God -[3868.04 --> 3874.90] gave the Israelites gift as they left Egypt, but it should also emphasize the gift of love, forgiveness, -[3874.90 --> 3881.58] mercy, and grace that he gives you from the cross and the empty tomb. God promises you all of these -[3881.58 --> 3889.20] things, and all you need to do is accept them. Yes, this story today, it teaches us about how God's people -[3889.20 --> 3895.76] grow to become this great nation, but it should remind you that you are part of an even greater nation -[3895.76 --> 3901.30] that goes beyond borders, beyond race, beyond gender, beyond tongue, beyond relation. -[3902.62 --> 3908.20] And now God's people, all of us, serve alongside one another and provide a community for each other -[3908.20 --> 3910.34] so that no one should feel alone. -[3912.34 --> 3918.12] And yes, this story today, it shows us how God's people became a blessing to the surrounding nations, -[3918.12 --> 3925.74] but it should remind us that we are called to do the same. God has granted you mercy, -[3926.68 --> 3936.50] so go and be merciful. God has forgiven our sins, so go and forgive. God has given us grace, -[3936.76 --> 3946.58] so go and be gracious. God has given us love, so go and love others. God promises that his church -[3946.58 --> 3951.48] will bless the nations, so go and be a part of that promise. -[3953.12 --> 3958.46] And if complacency in any of these promises has settled into your heart, if any of this seems -[3958.46 --> 3965.84] old and repetitive or mundane, please spend some time with God today in prayer. Ask the Holy Spirit -[3965.84 --> 3973.00] to reveal the might, the majesty, the magnitude of these promises, because they're not just some -[3973.00 --> 3982.08] mundane words on a page. These are life-changing promises. And they're the only promises worth putting -[3982.08 --> 3989.08] our hope in, because God's word stands. Amen. Let me pray. -[3989.08 --> 4001.64] Father in heaven, we read a story like this. We see how you have fulfilled promises in these Israelites' lives. -[4002.32 --> 4009.72] We see how you saved them from their captivity. And God, sometimes we look at that as just a cool story. -[4009.72 --> 4017.76] But God, those promises still reign true today, and they reign in each of our lives. Lord, forgive us when we put -[4017.76 --> 4024.42] our hope in things that are made of man, not made of you. Forgive us when we lean into things that we desire -[4024.42 --> 4030.52] and forget to look at what it is you desire from us. And God, will you allow the promises in this text -[4030.52 --> 4037.26] and throughout the word to resonate in our hearts? Let us know that we are rich in you because of your love -[4037.26 --> 4043.50] and grace and mercy. Let us know that we are part of a great nation, this community that you have placed us in. -[4043.78 --> 4050.42] And may we take those two promises and fulfill the third. May we go out and be a blessing to those around us. -[4050.70 --> 4055.30] Teach us to love more. Teach us to be more forgiving. Teach us to be more gracious. -[4055.88 --> 4060.52] Teach us to show more mercy. Allow us to become more and more like you, we pray. -[4061.78 --> 4063.14] In Jesus' name, amen. -[4067.26 --> 4093.58] You unravel me with a melody. You surround me with a song. -[4093.58 --> 4108.12] I've delivered us from my enemies till all my fears are gone. -[4108.12 --> 4123.20] I'm no longer a slave to fear. I am a child of God. -[4123.58 --> 4138.68] I'm no longer a slave to fear. I am a child of God. -[4138.68 --> 4163.90] In my mother's womb, you have chosen me. Love has called my name. -[4163.90 --> 4193.88] I've been born again. -[4193.88 --> 4195.88] I'm no longer a slave to fear. I am a child of God. -[4195.88 --> 4223.86] I'm no longer a slave to fear. I am a child of God. -[4223.86 --> 4225.86] I'm no longer a slave to fear. I am a child of God. -[4225.86 --> 4230.86] I am a child of God. -[4230.86 --> 4237.86] I am a child of God. -[4237.86 --> 4247.86] I am a child of God. -[4247.86 --> 4264.86] I am a child of God. -[4264.86 --> 4272.62] You split the sea so I could walk right through it. -[4273.10 --> 4277.22] My fears were drowned in perfect love. -[4280.00 --> 4286.30] You rescued me so I could stand and sing. -[4286.30 --> 4292.38] I am the child of God. -[4294.86 --> 4301.54] You split the sea so I could walk right through it. -[4302.10 --> 4306.36] My fears were drowned in perfect love. -[4308.42 --> 4315.22] You rescued me so I could stand and sing. -[4315.22 --> 4321.22] I am the child of God. -[4321.22 --> 4327.96] I am the child of God. -[4328.46 --> 4335.90] Yes, I am the child of God. -[4335.90 --> 4343.14] I am the child of God. -[4343.14 --> 4350.14] I am the child of God. -[4350.14 --> 4353.88] I am the child of God. -[4353.88 --> 4357.38] I am the child of God. -[4357.38 --> 4369.62] I am the child of God. -[4369.62 --> 4370.62] I am the child of God. -[4370.62 --> 4374.36] I am the child of God. -[4374.36 --> 4375.86] I am the child of God. -[4375.86 --> 4376.46] I am the child of God. -[4376.46 --> 4382.96] So let us go forth from this place into this week knowing that truth that we are no longer slaves to fear, -[4383.52 --> 4384.68] slaves to sin, -[4385.32 --> 4387.84] slaves to anything the devil wants to put in our way, -[4387.94 --> 4390.40] but we are children of God. -[4391.06 --> 4392.80] We are rich in his love. -[4392.80 --> 4394.70] We are a great community, -[4394.90 --> 4395.74] a great nation, -[4395.74 --> 4399.08] and we are called to go and bless those around us. -[4399.12 --> 4403.50] Now hear God's parting blessing from Numbers chapter 6. -[4404.64 --> 4407.06] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[4407.76 --> 4411.50] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[4411.94 --> 4416.04] The Lord turn his face toward you and give you his peace. -[4417.04 --> 4417.94] God's people said, -[4419.00 --> 4419.24] Amen. -[4419.24 --> 4419.36] Amen. -[4419.36 --> 4419.38] Amen. -[4422.80 --> 4424.44] Amen. -[4424.44 --> 4427.08] He's our rescuer. -[4427.94 --> 4430.46] He's our rescuer. -[4431.40 --> 4436.26] We are free from sin forevermore. -[4436.84 --> 4439.86] Oh, how sweet the sound. -[4440.30 --> 4443.30] Oh, how grace abounds. -[4443.70 --> 4447.74] We will praise the Lord, our rescuer. -[4449.88 --> 4452.50] Good news for the captain. -[4452.80 --> 4456.30] Good news for the shamed -[4456.30 --> 4461.18] There is good news for the one who walked away -[4461.18 --> 4465.82] There is good news for the doubter -[4465.82 --> 4469.30] The one religion failed -[4469.30 --> 4474.08] For the good Lord has come to seek and save -[4474.08 --> 4477.86] He's our rescuer -[4477.86 --> 4481.14] He's our rescuer -[4481.14 --> 4486.96] We are free from sin forevermore -[4486.96 --> 4490.30] Oh how sweet the sound -[4490.30 --> 4493.54] Oh how grace abounds -[4493.54 --> 4497.86] We will praise the Lord our rescuer -[4497.86 --> 4503.38] He is beauty for the blind man -[4503.38 --> 4506.08] Riches for the poor -[4506.08 --> 4511.08] He is friendship for the one the world ignores -[4511.08 --> 4515.90] He is master for the weary -[4515.90 --> 4519.12] Rest for those who strive -[4519.12 --> 4524.44] For the good Lord is the way, the truth, the life -[4524.44 --> 4530.96] Yes the good Lord is the way, the truth, the life -[4530.96 --> 4535.78] He's our rescuer -[4535.78 --> 4536.78] He's our rescuer -[4536.78 --> 4537.78] He's our rescuer -[4537.78 --> 4538.78] He's our rescuer -[4538.78 --> 4543.00] We are free from sin forevermore -[4543.00 --> 4548.82] Oh how sweet the sound -[4548.82 --> 4549.82] Oh how grace abounds -[4549.82 --> 4553.66] We will praise the Lord our rescuer -[4553.66 --> 4557.44] So come and be shameless -[4557.44 --> 4560.72] Come and be fearless -[4560.72 --> 4568.54] Come to the foot of Calvary -[4568.54 --> 4570.54] There is redemption -[4570.54 --> 4571.54] There is redemption -[4571.54 --> 4575.54] For every affliction -[4575.54 --> 4580.54] Here at the foot of Calvary -[4580.54 --> 4585.36] He's our rescuer -[4585.36 --> 4586.36] He's our rescuer -[4586.36 --> 4590.18] He's our rescuer -[4590.18 --> 4591.36] He's our rescuer -[4591.36 --> 4595.18] He's our rescuer -[4595.18 --> 4596.18] We are free from sin forevermore -[4596.18 --> 4597.18] Oh how sweet the sound -[4597.18 --> 4598.18] Oh how grace abounds -[4598.18 --> 4599.18] There is redemption -[4599.18 --> 4600.18] There is redemption -[4600.18 --> 4602.18] There is redemption -[4602.18 --> 4603.18] For every affliction -[4603.18 --> 4604.18] Here at the foot of Calvary -[4604.18 --> 4606.18] He's our rescuer -[4606.18 --> 4607.18] He's our rescuer -[4607.18 --> 4608.18] He's our rescuer -[4608.18 --> 4609.18] He's our rescuer -[4609.18 --> 4610.18] He's our rescuer -[4610.18 --> 4612.18] We are free from sin forevermore -[4612.18 --> 4615.18] We are free from sin forevermore -[4615.18 --> 4618.18] We are free from sin forevermore -[4618.18 --> 4620.18] Oh how sweet the sound -[4620.18 --> 4623.18] Oh how grace abounds -[4623.18 --> 4626.18] We will praise the Lord our rescuer -[4626.18 --> 4630.18] We will praise the Lord our rescuer -[4630.18 --> 4635.18] We will praise the Lord our rescuer -[4635.18 --> 4637.18] Amen -[4665.18 --> 4695.16] Thank you. -[4695.18 --> 4725.16] Thank you. -[4725.18 --> 4742.36] Thank you. -[4755.18 --> 4785.16] Thank you. -[4785.18 --> 4815.16] Thank you. -[4815.18 --> 4845.16] Thank you. -[4845.18 --> 4875.16] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - February 19, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - February 19, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index e5b8a68b1af91cd4ac2749e43c0c0942f4ece9f1..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - February 19, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,238 +0,0 @@ -• The singer expresses a need for God's hope and strength in times of temptation -• The importance of recognizing one's identity as a child of God -• The concept of being "free indeed" through faith in Jesus Christ -• The idea that God has a place prepared for His children in His house -• The organization Safe Families Canada is introduced, which aims to keep families and children safe during crises -• Preventing child abuse and neglect -• Supporting and stabilizing families in crisis through community resources -• Reuniting families and reducing child welfare system involvement -• Safe Families program as an alternative to foster care -• Upcoming events: information evenings, Coldest Night of the Year walk -• Young adult potluck -• Worship and praise of God, including "Hosanna" repeated multiple times -• God's saving nature and worthiness of praise -• Music and singing as a response to God's love and presence -• Psalm 37 read aloud, highlighting trust in God and His goodness -• Assurance of God's love and care for the faithful -• Importance of trusting in God and doing good -• Focusing on wrong things when making plans for the year ahead -• Need to commit ways to God and take delight in Him -• Importance of prayer and seeking guidance from God -• Desire to walk close to God and have a closer relationship with Him -• Acknowledging dependence on God's strength and guidance -• Focusing on spiritual pursuits rather than personal desires -• Worship music with repetitive phrases and lyrics -• Praise to God, the King of kings -• Adoration and wonder at Jesus' name and power -• Good morning announcement by Clem, a deacon at Emmanuel -• Two offerings announced: Langley's ministries/missions and spring Mexico missions -• Mexico dinners and fundraisers -• Gratitude for church's support of mission trip -• Generosity of church members, covering costs with minimal fundraising needed -• Upcoming Mexico dinner on March 4th, sign-up in back by connections table -• Information about spring Mexico missions trip -• Mission statement for the trip is to build community with people in Mexico and their church -• This year's chosen Bible verse is Romans 12:16, which emphasizes living in harmony with one another and associating with people of low position -• The economic situation in Abilino has changed significantly since they started working there, with many church members' lives improving -• However, the influx of migrants from South America has brought new challenges to the community, including overcrowding and a decline in living conditions -• Mexico's economy has regressed 20 years in some areas, with poverty and lack of basic necessities returning -• Discussion of the Mexico trip and its purpose -• Comparison to past trips and how the church has grown -• Focus on evangelizing and helping people meet God again -• Addressing the economic situation and needs of the community in Abilino -• Importance of visiting and ministering to those in low-income positions -• Ministry and church life -• Burdens of ministry and prayer for support -• Living out one's faith in daily life -• Ministering to others at home and abroad -• A vision or calling to serve the Lord -• Needing discipline and guidance -• Light and fire as metaphors for spiritual growth -• An underdog in the Bible (the subject of a talk) -• Defining an underdog and its relation to the topic -• Discussion about the concept of an underdog, specifically in a biblical context -• Introduction to the story of David and Goliath from the Bible -• Explanation of how David was considered an underdog against the giant Goliath -• Brief mention of someone named Zoe's father being named Goliath and its potential confusion -• Prayer time with children, including thanking God for the day and praying for parents to learn more about the Bible -• Transition to children's worship time -• Introduction to a prayer ministry, including an update on people in need, specifically Amy Cron having cancer and Pete's mom being hospitalized. -• Palliative care for Leanne Harris' father and another person -• Remembering Eva Kolkman and those traveling -• Praying for students away from home and those with health issues -• Cancer diagnosis and prayer for comfort and understanding -• Remembering those who have passed away and "empty seats" -• Prayer for the church, staff, volunteers, and youth education -• Opening prayer and blessing -• Introduction to the continuation of the series in Romans -• Pastor's privilege of talking with people and entering into their lives -• Discussion of change, hope for a better future, and lamentation in times of pain -• Connection between individual circumstances and desire for societal change -• The speaker calls for transformation and change, referencing God's message -• Romans 3 is read together as a passage to discuss Jewish privilege and value -• Paul writes that Jewish faithfulness does not nullify God's faithfulness -• The speaker argues that unrighteousness can reveal God's righteousness more clearly -• A human argument is used to illustrate God's justice in judgment -• The concept of falsehood enhancing God's truthfulness is explored -• The passage concludes by asking if being under God's power gives any advantage -• The inherent sinfulness of humanity, with no one being righteous or seeking God. -• The law's inability to make anyone righteous, and its only purpose being to convict people of their sin. -• The destructive nature of humanity, with everyone having turned away from God and becoming worthless. -• The universality of sin, with no one doing good or fearing God. -• The role of the law in making people conscious of their sin. -• Discussion of 2 Peter and Paul's writings -• The idea that Paul's letters contain hard to understand passages -• Comparison between Peter and Paul's writings, including a reference to Jesus building his church on a rock -• Acknowledgement that some of Paul's writing can be challenging to interpret -• Analysis of Romans 3:1-2, specifically the apparent contradiction in verses 1 and 2 -• Discussion of the advantages of being a Jew or circumcised according to Paul -• Discussing an apparent contradiction in previous statements -• Exploring the idea that there is a way to understand and reconcile the seeming contradiction -• Mentioning Paul's teaching abilities and how he anticipates questions from his hearers -• Using an example of a maths teacher anticipating student questions when introducing new concepts -• Equation of a line -• Slope and y-intercept -• Line equations in real-world applications -• Teacher-student conversation about line equations -• Student questions and examples in AP English class -• Mary Shelley's Frankenstein book reference -• The concept of monstrosity and its creation -• Self-awareness in the monster -• Anticipating questions from students on consciousness, soul, and identity -• Teaching methods for exploring complex concepts -• Personal anecdote about past academic experiences -• The speaker discusses a personal experience of trying to trap someone in a corner with questions -• They mention that this tactic never worked and they were also arrogant enough to think it would succeed -• The discussion turns to how teachers and students interact, including the use of exceptions to the rule and reducing ideas or arguments to absurdity -• The speaker notes that people often try to dismiss an idea by labeling it as an exception or absurd articulation -• They conclude that this kind of thinking happens frequently in today's world, especially on social media. -• Platforms and spaces in the world today -• Reductio ad absurdum as a false equivalency -• Straw arguments in areas of sexual identity, personal autonomy, and expressive individualism -• Libertarian and conservative government philosophies -• Questioning and criticism in politics and public discourse -• The rise of "ism" as a rhetorical device -• Accusations of others' offenses as a way to deflect from one's own deeds or ideas -• Avoiding meaningful engagement on an issue and dismissing the opposing position -• The concept of "ism" as a symptom of cultural forgetfulness in having meaningful disagreement -• Paul addressing the idea of "ism" among his hearers -• Anticipating counterpoints to dismiss everything that has been said -• Jewish people often fall under the category of wrath and judgment due to sin -• Dead orthodoxy can be a hindrance to spiritual reality -• Following rules may not make any difference if it doesn't change one's behavior -• The advantage is having the Word of God, which guides matters of the divine -• Purpose of life -• Truth about something -• Power of the Word of God -• Holy Spirit and its role -• Transformation through faith in Jesus Christ -• Outgoing and return to God without accomplishing His purposes -• Revelation of God's pattern for life in the world -• Faithfulness and being faithful, with faithfulness nullifying God's faithfulness not -• Unfaithful individuals and their impact on God's faithfulness -• God's character and nature are reflected in His faithfulness -• God cannot be unfaithful due to the virtue of His being -• Faithfulness is a fundamental aspect of God's character, essential for Him to remain faithful -• The faithfulness of God is not dependent on human faithfulness but rather on His own character -• God remains faithful even if humans are faithless -• A key Bible verse referencing this concept is 2 Timothy 2:13 -• The book of Romans and God's faithfulness -• Hope for sinners due to God's promise -• Faithfulness of God to His plan and promise -• Unfaithfulness and its effect on God's people -• Relationship between unrighteousness and God's righteousness -• The concept of God's truthfulness and its relation to human sin -• The idea that doing evil to achieve good is not a logical fallacy, but rather a common approach in some Christian cultures -• The speaker questioning the contradiction between glorifying God through judgment or grace, and Paul's statement about letting evil be done so good may result -• Question about boundaries in relationships -• How much freedom teenagers should have in physical relationships -• Differences between younger and older adults' expectations for freedom in their lives -• Economic security and its impact on personal choices -• Spending money on leisure activities like vacations -• The meaning of honoring God with one's life -• Comparison between age and willingness to give up one's life for others -• Sacrificing one's life for the sake of others, as Jesus did -• Considering what one needs to give up in order to honor God with their life -• Understanding that giving up things willingly is more important than the actual sacrifice itself -• Revelation of God's glory being revealed in us -• Second question asked, related to doing whatever one wants and then asking forgiveness later -• Idea that some way of thinking about life is rooted in an assumption -• Assumption that one will live to a certain point where they can ask for more -• Faith is a gift from God -• Faith becomes real when evident in one's life through the fruit of forgiveness and good works -• Forgiveness is displayed by how one lives their life, receiving it and making it a reality in their actions -• The order and timing of faith and forgiveness are important, with faith given to us first -• We must have faith in God's grace and produce its fruit in our lives -• The importance of producing fruit in one's life and the consequences of not doing so -• The question of whether one can produce good or bad fruit and the distinction between genuine faith and lack thereof -• The idea that simply asking for something is not enough, but rather one must practice what they think is good and true -• The concept of seeking God's truth as opposed to personal opinions -• The difference between being a Christian in name only versus truly following God's will -• Paul answers a contradiction -• He says it's not at all, but rather a conclusion -• The charge that Jews and Gentiles alike are under the power of sin is God's righteous judgment for our sin and inability to do good -• Paul makes this point again in the reading -• There is no one who is righteous or seeks God, as all have sinned and turned away -• Quotes from Ecclesiastes and Isaiah -• Paul's point about the advantage of being a Jew -• The importance of having the Scriptures to understand God's truth -• The lack of advantage in being a Jew when one has the Scriptures -• The logical conclusion of having the Word of God, including seeing the world and its perspective from that view -• The nature of personal pride and its relationship to religious tradition -• The importance of humility in acknowledging the truth about one's circumstances -• The need for a savior, particularly for those who are religious or traditional -• Humility as a compelling virtue that promotes gentleness and respect -• Imagination and the power of God -• Knowing the rule and being driven to the cross of Jesus Christ -• Death, deserving death, and resurrection -• Restoration to God and creation's original purpose -• Purpose, design, and intent -• Asking questions and changing the world -• A revival at Asbury University -• Revival and connection with God mentioned -• Mention of videos from Trinity Western University's chapel service -• Discussion of online content spreading to other schools -• Reference to a pastor being abusive -• Speaker's cynicism and skepticism expressed, including comparison to their default reaction to stories like this one -• Humility required for God's work in the world -• Student shares experience of humility at Asbury Worship Team -• Student reflects on how everyone is approaching worship with humility -• President of Asbury releases statement about worship leader and humility -• Famous worship leader with a record deal talks about coming from an area where they can come together with others -• The students got the picture and can handle it -• There's a beautiful picture of God at work in the world -• It may be a revival that will spread -• Something is happening here this morning because even as we were worshiping, I felt like God was here -• Christian humility starts with recognizing there is not one who deserves something -• No one is righteous or understands God -• Humanity has turned away from God and become worthless -• Humility in recognizing this truth has the power to change the world -• Faithfulness in small things, such as daily actions, is what changes the world -• Great leaders may try to transform the world, but faithfulness in everyday life is more effective -• Faithfulness in small things transforms you and reveals the kingdom of God -• Humility, gentleness, and respect are necessary for transformation and revelation of God's truth -• Revival comes from humility and faithfulness in small things -• The truth of who we are as God's children is essential for living for His glory -• Prayer is encouraged to seek revival and live according to God's will -• Praying for forgiveness and trust -• Seeking the power to see others at work in a new way -• Asking for new eyes and hearts to know God's presence -• Requesting faithfulness in small things for revival to occur -• Hoping for revival in this land and a new generation of Christians -• Faith and faithfulness -• Power in Jesus' name -• Accepting God's responsibilities -• Praise and worship -• Need for guidance and righteousness -• Sin and redemption through Jesus Christ -• Salvation and freedom in Him -• Surrender to God's will -• Prayer and blessings -• Angels obeying commands from God -• God's wisdom, mercy, and justice reigning -• Longings and glory of God being heard -• Shield, sword, fire, and water in believers -• Nations gathering for war -• Jesus as Savior and Lamb -• Obedience to God -• Importance of people being at the Lord \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - February 19, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - February 19, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b4fd3c49e0e0012c0f72c21f34d2e025993a9a7c..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - February 19, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,5463 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 3.46] When temptation comes my way -[3.46 --> 9.10] And when I cannot stand, I'll fall on You -[9.10 --> 15.10] Jesus, You're my hope and stay -[15.10 --> 20.86] And when I cannot stand, I'll fall on You -[20.86 --> 26.56] Jesus, You're my hope and stay -[30.00 --> 37.60] Lord, I need You, oh, I need You -[37.60 --> 43.98] Every hour I need You -[43.98 --> 50.08] My one defense, my righteousness -[50.08 --> 55.80] Oh God, how I need You -[60.00 --> 66.88] Lord, I need You, oh, I need You -[66.88 --> 73.82] Every hour I need You -[73.82 --> 80.82] My one defense, my righteousness -[80.82 --> 86.82] Oh God, how I need You -[86.82 --> 95.20] My one defense, my righteousness -[95.20 --> 101.48] Oh God, how I need You -[101.48 --> 109.32] I need You -[109.32 --> 139.30] Thank you. -[139.32 --> 146.62] I was lost, but He brought me all His love for me. -[147.22 --> 150.78] All His love for me. -[151.58 --> 158.98] Who the sun sets free, who is free indeed. -[159.98 --> 166.28] I'm a child of God, yes I am. -[169.32 --> 175.96] Free dust He has ransomed me, His grace runs deep. -[177.72 --> 184.12] While I was a slave to sin, Jesus died for me. -[184.12 --> 188.12] Yes, He died for me. -[189.08 --> 196.68] When the sun sets free, who is free indeed. -[196.68 --> 204.10] I'm a child of God, yes I am. -[204.10 --> 213.54] In my Father's house, there's a place for me. -[214.18 --> 220.78] I'm a child of God, yes I am. -[220.78 --> 226.46] I am chosen, not forsaken. -[227.18 --> 230.14] I am who You say I am. -[230.86 --> 235.10] You are for me, not against me. -[235.50 --> 238.50] I am who You say I am. -[238.50 --> 246.90] I am who You say I am. -[246.90 --> 251.90] You are for me, not against me. -[251.90 --> 255.30] I am who You say I am. -[255.30 --> 260.06] I am who You say I am. -[260.06 --> 263.90] Who the sun sets free. -[263.90 --> 267.82] Always free indeed. -[267.82 --> 275.22] I'm a child of God, yes I am. -[275.22 --> 284.70] In my Father's house, there's a place for me. -[284.70 --> 291.86] I'm a child of God, yes I am. -[291.86 --> 301.34] In my Father's house, there's a place for me. -[301.34 --> 308.62] I'm a child of God, yes I am. -[308.62 --> 326.10] I am a child of God, yes I am. -[326.10 --> 332.10] I am a child of God, yes I am. -[332.10 --> 347.78] I am chosen, not forsaken. -[347.78 --> 351.46] I am who You say I am. -[351.46 --> 356.54] You are for me, not against me. -[356.54 --> 359.82] I am who You say I am. -[359.82 --> 364.82] I am chosen, not forsaken. -[364.82 --> 368.54] I am who You say I am. -[368.54 --> 373.42] You are for me, not against me. -[373.42 --> 376.82] I am who You say I am. -[376.82 --> 381.70] I am chosen, not forsaken. -[381.70 --> 385.14] I am who You say I am. -[385.14 --> 390.14] You are for me, not against me. -[390.14 --> 393.86] I am who You say I am. -[393.86 --> 397.86] Oh, I am who You say I am. -[397.86 --> 404.14] Yes, I am who You say I am. -[404.14 --> 409.14] I am who You say I am. -[409.14 --> 412.86] Oh, I am who You say I am. -[412.86 --> 417.14] I am who You say I am. -[417.14 --> 422.14] Yes, I am who You say I am. -[422.14 --> 424.14] Yes, I am. -[424.14 --> 426.14] Yes, I am. -[426.14 --> 430.14] Yes, I am. -[430.14 --> 434.14] Yes, I am. -[434.14 --> 440.14] Yes, I am. -[440.14 --> 451.38] Thank you and thank God for calling me! -[470.14 --> 500.12] Thank you. -[500.14 --> 530.12] Thank you. -[530.14 --> 560.12] Thank you. -[560.14 --> 590.12] Thank you. -[590.14 --> 620.12] Thank you. -[620.14 --> 622.14] Thank you. -[650.14 --> 652.14] Thank you. -[680.14 --> 682.14] Thank you. -[710.14 --> 712.14] Thank you. -[740.14 --> 742.14] Thank you. -[742.14 --> 744.14] Thank you. -[744.14 --> 746.14] Thank you. -[746.14 --> 748.14] Thank you. -[748.14 --> 750.14] Thank you. -[750.14 --> 752.14] Thank you. -[752.14 --> 754.14] Thank you. -[754.14 --> 756.14] Thank you. -[756.14 --> 758.14] Thank you. -[758.14 --> 760.14] Thank you. -[760.14 --> 762.14] Thank you. -[762.14 --> 764.14] Thank you. -[764.14 --> 766.14] Thank you. -[766.14 --> 768.14] Thank you. -[768.14 --> 770.14] Good morning. -[770.14 --> 773.72] and some invitations in your mailboxes. -[774.16 --> 777.52] They are from an organization called Safe Families Canada, -[777.74 --> 779.76] which I have recently joined. -[780.70 --> 782.54] Boy, I think I'm nervous or something. -[783.96 --> 787.44] Anyways, just to give you some more information about Safe Families, -[787.78 --> 792.92] it is an international, inter-denominational Christian organization -[792.92 --> 797.82] that has some goals about keeping families safe, -[797.82 --> 799.28] keeping children safe. -[800.14 --> 805.72] Their three main goals are to keep children safe during a family crisis, -[805.94 --> 810.88] such as homelessness or a hospitalization, or domestic violence, -[811.20 --> 814.98] in an effort to prevent child abuse and or neglect. -[816.28 --> 820.58] The second goal is to support and stabilize families in crisis -[820.58 --> 824.82] by surrounding them with caring, compassionate community. -[824.82 --> 828.78] Now, that is something that we do as a church, -[828.78 --> 830.46] with our own church families, -[830.64 --> 838.10] so Safe Families is hoping to expand that to the families that are in our communities. -[839.24 --> 843.86] The third goal is to reunite families and reduce the number of children -[843.86 --> 846.24] that are entering the child welfare system. -[846.24 --> 851.72] We seek to be an alternative to foster care where appropriate. -[851.72 --> 859.04] Now, I also know many families here in our midst have experienced the foster care system, -[859.04 --> 864.98] and this is an alternative to that if it is safe to do so. -[864.98 --> 866.78] Thank you. -[866.78 --> 866.82] Thank you. -[866.82 --> 866.84] Thank you. -[866.84 --> 866.98] Thank you. -[866.98 --> 867.84] Thank you. -[867.84 --> 872.72] Oh, I wanted to remind you that we are having information evenings this coming weekend, -[872.72 --> 878.78] Thursday in Sardis Baptist Church, -[878.78 --> 883.66] and on Friday at New Life CRC in Abbotsford, -[883.66 --> 889.14] and on Saturday night at the Canadian Reformed Church across the highway. -[889.66 --> 892.72] So please come on out, get some more information, have some goodies, -[893.66 --> 896.64] have a chance to ask some questions, -[897.36 --> 904.60] see if this is something that you as individuals and as a church might be wanting to be involved in. -[904.60 --> 905.16] Thank you. -[908.36 --> 909.18] Thank you, Sylvia. -[909.68 --> 912.68] If you have any questions about that, in addition to what you found in your mailbox, -[912.68 --> 915.60] you can grab Sylvia and she will answer them for you. -[917.36 --> 922.92] Also, this coming Saturday, we are marking Coldest Night of the Year, -[923.04 --> 927.84] an opportunity to support the work of the Salvation Army and Gateway of Hope -[927.84 --> 932.58] in their dealing with people who are experiencing issues of housing or homelessness. -[932.58 --> 935.96] And so we are gathering as a group to walk. -[936.12 --> 938.78] There's still a chance to sign up and join the group. -[939.20 --> 943.68] There's information in the e-bulletin, or you can grab Nikki here who will help explain some of that. -[943.96 --> 947.98] And there's still a chance to donate to help people reach goals. -[948.42 --> 952.30] And the Lobert's have set a really impressive personal goal and challenge. -[952.30 --> 956.02] And so ask the Lobert girls about those details, -[956.02 --> 959.76] and they will help you and encourage you to support them, -[959.76 --> 962.90] because I think you're going to want to see them reach their goal. -[963.32 --> 964.38] But I'm not going to say any more. -[964.82 --> 966.04] Isla, you can explain it later. -[967.18 --> 968.16] Isla's terrified now. -[968.16 --> 974.08] Also, tonight is the young adult potluck. -[974.56 --> 978.00] So if you're a young adult, or if you feel like a young adult, -[979.02 --> 982.62] join us at 6.30, or join them at 6.30, -[982.66 --> 984.40] because I don't feel like a young adult anymore, -[984.94 --> 989.04] at 6.30 here at church for a potluck together. -[989.38 --> 992.70] Now, I do want to say that they interpret potluck very generously. -[992.70 --> 995.78] So if you bring 40 nuggets, you're welcome. -[997.78 --> 1000.56] I think that's it for announcements this morning. -[1001.58 --> 1005.74] Can we stand together, as we're welcomed by God in his presence? -[1012.62 --> 1016.98] After you receive God's greeting, I invite you to turn to those around you, -[1017.04 --> 1019.88] and with whom you're worshiping, and welcome them into worship. -[1019.88 --> 1022.68] You can do that with a handshake, or a fist bump, or a head nod, -[1023.02 --> 1023.80] however you like. -[1023.86 --> 1026.08] Just welcome them into the presence of God together. -[1026.46 --> 1027.86] Receive God's greeting. -[1029.16 --> 1032.36] Grace, mercy, and peace to you, -[1032.60 --> 1034.74] from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, -[1034.82 --> 1036.36] his Son, and our Savior, -[1036.82 --> 1039.30] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[1040.52 --> 1040.88] Amen. -[1040.88 --> 1041.04] Amen. -[1049.88 --> 1050.46] Amen. -[1058.52 --> 1058.56] Amen. -[1058.58 --> 1060.26] Amen. -[1060.26 --> 1080.54] Good morning. -[1081.02 --> 1086.02] We are called here this morning with a reading from Revelation 19. -[1086.02 --> 1095.26] Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting, -[1095.72 --> 1102.98] Hallelujah, for our Lord God Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory. -[1103.48 --> 1108.02] For the wedding of the Lamb has come and his bride has made herself ready. -[1108.70 --> 1115.36] This is a beautiful picture of our church in that wedding feast, adding our voice to that thunderous shout. -[1115.36 --> 1118.36] Our Lord God Almighty reigns. -[1145.36 --> 1147.36] Thank you. -[1147.36 --> 1148.36] Thank you. -[1148.36 --> 1150.36] Thank you. -[1150.36 --> 1152.36] Thank you. -[1152.36 --> 1154.96] Hearts are -[1154.96 --> 1157.30] Durning for you -[1157.30 --> 1161.02] We long for you -[1161.02 --> 1164.80] Through you, sweet you -[1164.80 --> 1166.38] We find a frame -[1166.38 --> 1168.60] To face the pain -[1168.60 --> 1171.92] In your presence -[1171.92 --> 1175.48] All our fears are washed away -[1175.48 --> 1178.36] Washed away -[1178.36 --> 1182.64] Hosanna -[1182.64 --> 1186.04] Hosanna -[1186.04 --> 1190.16] You are the God who saves us -[1190.16 --> 1193.52] Worthy of all our praises -[1193.52 --> 1197.24] Hosanna -[1197.24 --> 1200.64] Hosanna -[1200.64 --> 1204.76] Come have your way above us -[1204.76 --> 1208.00] Welcome you here, Lord Jesus -[1208.00 --> 1212.28] Hosanna -[1212.28 --> 1215.68] Hear the sound of God -[1215.68 --> 1219.50] Return to you -[1219.50 --> 1222.72] Return to you -[1223.28 --> 1229.10] In your kingdom -[1229.10 --> 1233.38] Broken lines are made you -[1233.38 --> 1237.58] You make us new -[1237.58 --> 1241.48] When we see you -[1241.48 --> 1244.78] We find strength to fight today -[1244.78 --> 1248.38] In your presence -[1248.38 --> 1252.66] All our fears are washed away -[1252.66 --> 1254.06] Washed away -[1254.06 --> 1258.34] Hosanna -[1258.34 --> 1259.34] Hosanna -[1259.34 --> 1260.34] Hosanna -[1260.34 --> 1260.74] Hosanna -[1260.74 --> 1261.74] Hosanna -[1261.74 --> 1265.74] You are the God who saves us -[1265.74 --> 1269.54] Worthy of all our praises -[1269.54 --> 1272.34] Hosanna -[1272.34 --> 1272.74] Hosanna -[1272.74 --> 1276.32] Hosanna -[1276.54 --> 1277.62] Hosanna -[1278.02 --> 1280.28] Come have your way above us -[1280.28 --> 1280.42] Whanut to God -[1280.42 --> 1283.28] Come with you here, Lord Jesus -[1283.28 --> 1283.62] Hosanna -[1283.62 --> 1284.58] You are the God who saves us -[1284.58 --> 1285.38] Himentos -[1285.38 --> 1285.90] Hosanna -[1285.90 --> 1286.70] Hosanna -[1286.70 --> 1287.36] Hosanna -[1287.36 --> 1287.52] former Jesus -[1287.52 --> 1293.76] Hosanna -[1293.76 --> 1294.76] Hosanna -[1294.76 --> 1295.18] You are the God who saves us -[1295.18 --> 1299.38] Worthy of all our praises -[1299.38 --> 1302.20] Hosanna -[1302.20 --> 1305.58] Hosanna -[1305.58 --> 1309.68] From a new way above us -[1309.68 --> 1312.94] Welcome you here for Jesus -[1325.18 --> 1344.98] There is an endless song -[1344.98 --> 1348.70] That goes in my soul -[1348.70 --> 1354.70] I hear the music ring -[1354.70 --> 1358.54] When the storm is coming -[1358.54 --> 1362.92] I am holding on -[1362.92 --> 1368.24] To the rock I cling -[1368.24 --> 1376.12] How can I keep from singing your praise? -[1376.12 --> 1380.06] How can I ever say love -[1380.06 --> 1384.36] How amazing is your love -[1384.36 --> 1389.70] How can I keep from shouting your name? -[1389.70 --> 1393.98] I know I'm loved by the King -[1393.98 --> 1397.92] And it makes my heart -[1397.92 --> 1403.26] What a dream -[1403.26 --> 1411.20] Lift my eyes in the darkest night -[1411.20 --> 1416.54] And I will walk with you -[1416.54 --> 1421.88] And I will walk with you -[1421.88 --> 1426.16] And when you'll see me through -[1426.16 --> 1431.50] I will sing the song -[1431.50 --> 1436.38] How can I keep from singing your praise? -[1436.38 --> 1441.38] How can I ever say love -[1441.38 --> 1445.44] How amazing is your love? -[1445.44 --> 1450.32] How can I keep from shouting your name? -[1450.32 --> 1454.60] I know I'm loved by the King -[1454.60 --> 1455.94] And I will sing -[1455.94 --> 1458.88] And it makes my heart -[1458.88 --> 1460.22] I will sing -[1460.22 --> 1465.84] I can sing in the troubled times -[1465.84 --> 1468.56] Sing when I win -[1468.56 --> 1472.50] I can sing when I lose my step -[1472.50 --> 1475.30] Fall down again -[1475.30 --> 1477.64] I can sing when I sing -[1477.64 --> 1480.64] I can sing when I win -[1480.64 --> 1482.94] I can sing when you pick me up -[1482.94 --> 1485.52] I can sing when you hear me Lord -[1485.52 --> 1488.74] When I call to you in prayer -[1488.74 --> 1492.16] I can sing with my last breath -[1492.16 --> 1495.12] Sing for I know -[1495.12 --> 1502.10] That I'll sing with the angels and the saints of the throne. -[1504.32 --> 1509.46] How can I keep from singing your praise? -[1510.12 --> 1513.26] How can I ever say enough? -[1513.92 --> 1516.68] How amazing is your love? -[1517.76 --> 1522.40] How can I keep from shouting your name? -[1522.40 --> 1530.24] I know I'm loved by the King and He fakes my heart. -[1530.24 --> 1536.82] I am loved by the King and He fakes my heart. -[1537.00 --> 1543.74] I am loved by the King and He fakes my heart. -[1544.14 --> 1546.66] What a shame. -[1548.66 --> 1551.34] I invite you to be seated for a couple of minutes. -[1552.40 --> 1552.84] Amen. -[1557.34 --> 1562.32] Our confession and assurance is coming to us from Psalm 37 this morning. -[1563.12 --> 1569.14] Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong. -[1570.14 --> 1572.60] For like the grass, they will soon wither. -[1573.08 --> 1575.76] Like green plants, they will soon die away. -[1575.76 --> 1578.84] Trust in the Lord and do good. -[1579.54 --> 1582.44] Dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. -[1583.32 --> 1587.62] Take delight in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. -[1588.72 --> 1590.06] Commit your way to the Lord. -[1590.66 --> 1592.74] Trust in Him and He will do this. -[1593.48 --> 1596.56] He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn. -[1597.26 --> 1599.74] Your vindication like the noonday sun. -[1599.74 --> 1603.88] Trust in the Lord and do good. -[1604.56 --> 1605.86] Take delight in the Lord. -[1606.62 --> 1608.22] Commit your way to the Lord. -[1609.18 --> 1612.24] As we look at the year ahead, we may ask ourselves, -[1612.24 --> 1616.00] what will make this coming year a success? -[1617.00 --> 1623.12] At the end of the year, what will be the markers along the way that indicate we had a successful year? -[1624.40 --> 1626.80] Here's a list of things that we might like to see happen. -[1626.80 --> 1635.36] From holidays to hobbies, healthy living to sports, financial security to volunteering. -[1636.34 --> 1638.58] These may be the desires of our hearts. -[1639.24 --> 1645.60] As we consider this list, it strikes me that maybe we're focusing on the wrong things. -[1646.58 --> 1650.28] God didn't say, tell me your heart's desires and I'll make it happen. -[1650.28 --> 1654.72] He is saying, trust in me and do good. -[1655.28 --> 1656.48] Take delight in me. -[1657.30 --> 1661.06] Commit your way to me and I will give you the desires of your heart. -[1661.82 --> 1667.32] In this passage, God is telling us to stop trying to do life on our own and to trust in Him. -[1668.06 --> 1673.30] To commit our ways to Him and to get back to taking delight in Him. -[1673.92 --> 1675.66] And He will make your life rich. -[1680.28 --> 1706.04] I am weak but Thou art strong. -[1706.04 --> 1712.04] Jesus, keep me from all wrong. -[1712.04 --> 1718.04] I'll be satisfied as long. -[1718.94 --> 1724.04] As I walk, let me walk close to Thee. -[1725.68 --> 1730.04] Just a closer walk with Thee. -[1732.04 --> 1735.80] Granted, Jesus, is my plea. -[1736.04 --> 1742.04] Dear Lord, let me walk close to Thee. -[1742.04 --> 1748.04] Let it be, dear Lord, let it be. -[1748.04 --> 1755.24] Through this world of toil and snares, -[1755.24 --> 1757.24] If I falter, Lord, let it be. -[1757.24 --> 1760.84] If I falter, Lord, who cares? -[1761.24 --> 1766.10] Oh, will they my heart and chest? -[1766.24 --> 1772.02] None but Thee, dear Lord, none but Thee. -[1772.02 --> 1778.02] Just a closer walk with Thee. -[1778.02 --> 1780.02] Granted, Jesus, is my plea. -[1780.02 --> 1784.02] Granted, Jesus, is my plea. -[1784.02 --> 1789.02] Daily walking close to Thee. -[1789.02 --> 1795.02] Let it be, dear Lord, let it be. -[1795.02 --> 1802.02] When my feeble life is o'er. -[1802.02 --> 1807.02] Damn for me will be no more. -[1807.02 --> 1813.02] Guide me gently, safely o'er. -[1813.02 --> 1814.02] Always come, who does it? -[1814.02 --> 1842.02] 운데, hands and AUDIENCE who cares -[1842.02 --> 1847.60] Please pray with me. -[1851.74 --> 1856.98] Father, it's so easy to plan our life without considering you. -[1858.50 --> 1862.54] We focus on us and what we want out of life, -[1863.06 --> 1865.86] and to spend all our energies making it happen. -[1867.56 --> 1870.70] It seems so different than what you offer. -[1872.62 --> 1875.30] Forgive us for our selfish ways, -[1875.76 --> 1878.10] for not trusting in your love for us, -[1878.58 --> 1881.48] for not even considering you in our life plans. -[1883.70 --> 1887.08] Father, help us to take the focus off of us -[1887.08 --> 1889.86] and help us commit our ways to you. -[1890.70 --> 1893.54] Help us trust in you and do good. -[1894.42 --> 1895.88] Capture us with your beauty. -[1896.54 --> 1898.48] Draw us to you with your love. -[1898.48 --> 1904.42] So we again will take pure delight in you. -[1905.74 --> 1906.42] Amen. -[1906.42 --> 1908.84] Thank you. -[1909.74 --> 1911.88] Thank you. -[1911.88 --> 1936.18] O God, you are my God, and I will ever praise you. -[1936.18 --> 1945.74] O God, you are my God, and I will ever praise you. -[1946.40 --> 1955.62] I will seek you in the morning, and I will learn to walk in your way. -[1955.62 --> 1965.48] And step by step, you lead me, and I will follow you all of my days. -[1966.18 --> 1973.74] You are my God, and I will ever praise you. -[1974.84 --> 1982.92] O God, you are my God, and I will ever praise you. -[1982.92 --> 1992.54] I will seek you in the morning, and I will learn to walk in your way. -[1992.54 --> 2001.48] And step by step, you lead me, and I will follow you all of my days. -[2001.48 --> 2006.16] And I will follow you all of my days. -[2006.16 --> 2011.10] And I will follow you all of my days. -[2011.10 --> 2020.54] And step by step, you lead me, and I will follow you all of my days. -[2020.54 --> 2050.52] I will follow you all of my days. -[2050.52 --> 2052.52] I will follow you all of my days. -[2052.52 --> 2057.52] I will follow you all of my days. -[2057.52 --> 2061.52] I will follow you all of my days. -[2061.52 --> 2068.52] Jesus, the name above every other name. -[2068.52 --> 2087.52] Jesus, the only one who could ever say. -[2087.52 --> 2094.52] Jesus, the only one who could ever say. -[2094.52 --> 2096.52] We live for you. -[2096.52 --> 2099.52] We live for you. -[2099.52 --> 2100.52] We live for you. -[2100.52 --> 2106.52] Holy, there is no one like you. -[2106.52 --> 2109.52] There is none beside you. -[2109.52 --> 2132.52] Open up my eyes in wonder, and show me who you are, and fill me with your heart, and lead me in your love to those around me. -[2132.52 --> 2139.52] Jesus, the name above every other name. -[2139.52 --> 2141.52] Jesus, the only one who could ever say. -[2141.52 --> 2148.52] Jesus, the name above every other name. -[2148.52 --> 2154.52] Jesus, the only one who could ever say. -[2154.52 --> 2155.52] Jesus, the only one who could ever say. -[2155.52 --> 2157.52] Jesus, the only one who could ever say. -[2157.52 --> 2158.52] We live for you. -[2158.52 --> 2159.52] We live for you. -[2159.52 --> 2160.52] We live for you. -[2160.52 --> 2161.52] We live for you. -[2161.52 --> 2162.52] We live for you. -[2162.52 --> 2175.52] Holy, there is no one like you. -[2175.52 --> 2178.52] There is none beside you. -[2178.52 --> 2197.52] Open up your eyes in wonder, and show me who you are, and fill me with your heart, and lead me in your love to those around me. -[2197.52 --> 2217.22] I will build my life upon your love -[2217.22 --> 2222.24] It is a life temptation -[2222.24 --> 2229.86] And I will put my trust in you alone -[2229.86 --> 2235.06] And I will not be shaken -[2235.06 --> 2242.48] And I will build my life upon your love -[2242.48 --> 2247.44] It is a life temptation -[2247.44 --> 2255.06] And I will not trust in you alone -[2255.06 --> 2261.60] And I will not be shaken and fallen -[2261.60 --> 2265.24] There is no one like you -[2265.24 --> 2268.06] There is none beside you -[2268.06 --> 2273.40] Open up my eyes in wonder -[2273.40 --> 2277.10] And show me who you are -[2277.10 --> 2280.50] And fill me with your heart -[2280.50 --> 2283.88] And lead me in your love -[2283.88 --> 2288.06] To those around me -[2288.06 --> 2309.40] Worthy is not -[2309.40 --> 2313.30] Love who was slain -[2313.30 --> 2317.86] Holy, holy is he -[2317.86 --> 2323.16] Sing a new song -[2323.16 --> 2326.86] To him who sings on -[2326.86 --> 2331.02] Heaven's mercy sing -[2331.02 --> 2361.00] Heaven's mercy sing -[2361.00 --> 2363.06] Holy, holy, holy -[2363.06 --> 2366.14] Is the Lord God Almighty -[2366.14 --> 2371.46] Who has the wills and is to come -[2371.46 --> 2376.36] With all creation I sing -[2376.36 --> 2379.48] Praise to you, the King of kings -[2379.48 --> 2382.04] You are my everything -[2382.04 --> 2385.10] And I will adore you -[2385.10 --> 2385.78] And I will adore you -[2385.78 --> 2402.10] Gold and rainbows -[2402.10 --> 2404.66] Of levy color -[2404.66 --> 2407.90] Flashes of lightning -[2407.90 --> 2412.04] Lord, Lord, Lord, Lord -[2412.04 --> 2417.64] And sing in God's grace and glory and glory -[2417.64 --> 2424.04] To you who is the only wise King -[2424.04 --> 2428.04] Holy, holy, holy -[2428.04 --> 2431.04] God, Lord, God Almighty -[2431.04 --> 2432.04] Of the kingdom of kings -[2432.04 --> 2436.04] Of the kingdom of kings -[2436.04 --> 2438.18] And I will adore you -[2438.18 --> 2441.24] With all creation I sing -[2441.24 --> 2444.10] Praise to the King of kings -[2444.10 --> 2446.80] You are my everything -[2446.80 --> 2450.18] And I will adore you -[2450.18 --> 2466.24] Filled with wonder -[2466.24 --> 2469.30] Awestruck wonder -[2469.30 --> 2476.44] At the mention of your name -[2476.44 --> 2479.30] Filled with wonder -[2479.30 --> 2482.38] Awestruck wonder -[2482.38 --> 2488.70] At the mention of your name -[2488.70 --> 2492.14] Jesus, your name -[2492.14 --> 2493.10] Jesus, your name is power -[2493.10 --> 2496.30] Breath and living water -[2496.30 --> 2499.90] Such a marvelous victory -[2499.90 --> 2506.08] Holy, holy, holy -[2506.08 --> 2509.12] Is the Lord God Almighty -[2509.12 --> 2513.70] Who has the wills and the kings of God -[2513.70 --> 2519.24] Of all creation I sing -[2519.24 --> 2522.10] Praise to the king of kings -[2522.10 --> 2524.86] You are my everything -[2524.86 --> 2528.76] And I will adore you -[2528.76 --> 2545.82] I will adore you -[2545.82 --> 2546.30] I will adore you -[2546.30 --> 2550.30] I will adore you -[2550.30 --> 2552.30] I will adore you -[2552.30 --> 2562.00] Good morning -[2562.00 --> 2564.06] My name is Clem -[2564.06 --> 2565.00] And I'm one of the deacons -[2565.00 --> 2565.72] Here at Emmanuel -[2565.72 --> 2568.78] The first offering -[2568.78 --> 2570.34] Is for Langley's -[2570.34 --> 2572.06] Emmanuel's ministries -[2572.06 --> 2572.58] And missions -[2572.58 --> 2573.46] And the second -[2573.46 --> 2574.68] Is for spring -[2574.68 --> 2576.18] Mexico missions -[2576.18 --> 2577.94] And Brandon will -[2577.94 --> 2579.16] Have something to say -[2579.16 --> 2579.64] About that -[2579.64 --> 2581.98] Good morning -[2581.98 --> 2583.80] So this is actually -[2583.80 --> 2584.40] Because I actually have -[2584.40 --> 2585.36] A couple announcements too -[2585.36 --> 2586.16] So we thought we'd do it -[2586.16 --> 2586.58] All at one -[2586.58 --> 2587.50] And I don't go up and down -[2587.50 --> 2588.02] A bunch of times -[2588.02 --> 2590.52] But so we got a couple things -[2590.52 --> 2591.52] Two announcements -[2591.52 --> 2592.64] Offering of course -[2592.64 --> 2593.14] And a thank you -[2593.14 --> 2593.74] And I always think -[2593.74 --> 2595.20] When you ask people for money -[2595.20 --> 2595.82] The thank you is probably -[2595.82 --> 2596.60] The best to start with -[2596.60 --> 2598.16] So start with that -[2598.16 --> 2601.00] I know January to March -[2601.00 --> 2602.94] Can be a lot -[2602.94 --> 2603.72] In terms of Mexico -[2603.72 --> 2605.54] We constantly come to you guys -[2605.54 --> 2606.38] We're asking for money -[2606.38 --> 2608.56] We have Mexico dinners -[2608.56 --> 2609.74] We have fundraisers -[2609.74 --> 2610.32] We have the youth -[2610.32 --> 2611.42] Pestering you individually -[2611.42 --> 2613.20] We do these offerings -[2613.20 --> 2613.92] Things like that -[2613.92 --> 2615.08] I really appreciate -[2615.08 --> 2615.96] Is you guys every year -[2615.96 --> 2617.80] For the last 27 years -[2617.80 --> 2618.70] Or whatever we've done this -[2618.70 --> 2619.90] Have stepped up every time -[2619.90 --> 2621.36] And we've never had -[2621.36 --> 2622.84] Us not meeting our budget -[2622.84 --> 2624.40] It's just really cool to see -[2624.40 --> 2625.36] And I thank you guys for it -[2625.36 --> 2625.86] You guys always -[2625.86 --> 2626.90] It just shows how -[2626.90 --> 2628.04] Much this church -[2628.04 --> 2628.82] Supports this mission -[2628.82 --> 2629.76] And believes in it -[2629.76 --> 2631.16] So I really thank you guys -[2631.16 --> 2631.56] For that -[2631.56 --> 2632.96] I mean just to say -[2632.96 --> 2634.00] Like 17 years ago -[2634.00 --> 2634.80] When I went as a youth -[2634.80 --> 2635.90] The trip cost $1,000 -[2635.90 --> 2637.98] Despite inflation -[2637.98 --> 2639.24] COVID and all these things -[2639.24 --> 2641.02] The trip only cost $11.50 -[2641.02 --> 2642.00] 17 years later -[2642.00 --> 2643.42] We barely had to raise -[2643.42 --> 2644.20] The trip cost -[2644.20 --> 2644.80] Because you guys -[2644.80 --> 2645.44] Are so generous -[2645.44 --> 2646.86] And cover so much -[2646.86 --> 2647.54] Of that general -[2647.54 --> 2648.60] Ministry funds -[2648.60 --> 2649.76] That we don't need -[2649.76 --> 2650.32] To raise the price -[2650.32 --> 2651.60] So thank you for that -[2651.60 --> 2652.68] And other notes -[2652.68 --> 2653.52] The announcements -[2653.52 --> 2655.08] Newfeld fundraiser -[2655.08 --> 2656.20] A lot of you -[2656.20 --> 2656.76] Ordered from youth -[2656.76 --> 2657.18] But some of you -[2657.18 --> 2657.82] Also ordered from -[2657.82 --> 2658.72] Just the general trip -[2658.72 --> 2659.06] As well -[2659.06 --> 2659.42] If you weren't -[2659.42 --> 2660.38] Contacted by youth -[2660.38 --> 2661.94] For those people -[2661.94 --> 2663.50] This coming Saturday -[2663.50 --> 2664.22] The 25th -[2664.22 --> 2664.88] The pick up time -[2664.88 --> 2666.10] Will be at 2.30 -[2666.10 --> 2666.74] For your order -[2666.74 --> 2669.22] Please don't show up early -[2669.22 --> 2670.98] Just trying to skip the line up -[2670.98 --> 2671.50] And trying to get out -[2671.50 --> 2671.92] Of there faster -[2671.92 --> 2672.34] Because the food -[2672.34 --> 2673.30] Will still be on the truck -[2673.30 --> 2674.80] So you will not be -[2674.80 --> 2675.60] Leaving early -[2675.60 --> 2676.70] You'll be just waiting around -[2676.70 --> 2677.66] The youth will still -[2677.66 --> 2678.44] Be unloading the truck -[2678.44 --> 2679.12] And getting it all ready -[2679.12 --> 2679.62] For you guys -[2679.62 --> 2679.86] So -[2679.86 --> 2681.92] The second one -[2681.92 --> 2683.26] Is Mexico dinner -[2683.26 --> 2684.54] It's that time of year again -[2684.54 --> 2686.42] That will be two weeks from now -[2686.42 --> 2687.16] March 4th -[2687.16 --> 2687.96] To Saturday there -[2687.96 --> 2689.12] Sign up is going to be -[2689.12 --> 2689.46] In the back -[2689.46 --> 2690.70] By the connections table there -[2690.70 --> 2691.80] It will just be another -[2691.80 --> 2692.66] Just kind of great time -[2692.66 --> 2693.24] To hang out -[2693.24 --> 2694.84] Just kind of have -[2694.84 --> 2695.60] Community here -[2695.60 --> 2696.58] And have dinner together -[2696.58 --> 2697.22] And as well -[2697.22 --> 2698.20] Support the youth -[2698.20 --> 2699.20] And the spring -[2699.20 --> 2700.16] Mexico missions trip -[2700.16 --> 2701.68] It will be tacos again -[2701.68 --> 2702.92] Tickets are again -[2702.92 --> 2703.96] It's by donation -[2703.96 --> 2705.08] We do recommend -[2705.08 --> 2705.48] $20 -[2705.48 --> 2706.78] So we can cover our costs -[2706.78 --> 2707.10] At least -[2707.10 --> 2708.56] But it's by donation -[2708.56 --> 2709.28] For every person -[2709.28 --> 2710.90] And then I think -[2710.90 --> 2711.96] Kids we don't really charge for -[2711.96 --> 2712.30] So -[2712.30 --> 2713.58] That's the Mexico dinner -[2713.58 --> 2715.40] So they also -[2715.40 --> 2716.32] The deacons asked me -[2716.32 --> 2716.86] To kind of speak -[2716.86 --> 2717.92] About what the trip is -[2717.92 --> 2718.88] What we do -[2718.88 --> 2720.14] Kind of where your -[2720.14 --> 2721.26] Guys' money goes to -[2721.26 --> 2721.78] And all that -[2721.78 --> 2722.14] So -[2722.14 --> 2723.68] I figure to kind of -[2723.68 --> 2724.10] Start with -[2724.10 --> 2724.80] Every year we -[2724.80 --> 2725.44] For the -[2725.44 --> 2727.18] Last ten years or so -[2727.18 --> 2727.46] We -[2727.46 --> 2728.14] Our motto -[2728.14 --> 2728.80] Theme -[2728.80 --> 2729.48] Mission statement -[2729.48 --> 2730.02] Of the trip -[2730.02 --> 2731.20] Has been community -[2731.20 --> 2732.76] Our goal is to build -[2732.76 --> 2733.22] Community -[2733.22 --> 2734.82] With the people down -[2734.82 --> 2735.20] In Mexico -[2735.20 --> 2735.92] In our church -[2735.92 --> 2736.92] As well as the -[2736.92 --> 2737.62] Church in Mexico -[2737.62 --> 2738.22] That we support -[2738.22 --> 2739.04] And their surrounding -[2739.04 --> 2739.54] Community -[2739.54 --> 2741.26] So to go with that -[2741.26 --> 2741.88] We always choose -[2741.88 --> 2742.48] A bible verse -[2742.48 --> 2743.18] That just kind of -[2743.18 --> 2744.12] Fits what our -[2744.12 --> 2744.62] Mission statement -[2744.62 --> 2745.46] For this year is -[2745.46 --> 2746.62] And this year we -[2746.62 --> 2747.64] Chose Romans 12 -[2747.64 --> 2748.32] Verse 16 -[2748.32 --> 2749.16] Which is -[2749.16 --> 2749.74] Live in harmony -[2749.74 --> 2750.42] With one another -[2750.42 --> 2751.72] Do not be proud -[2751.72 --> 2752.74] But be willing -[2752.74 --> 2753.46] To associate with -[2753.46 --> 2754.36] People of low position -[2754.36 --> 2756.06] And do not be conceited -[2756.06 --> 2758.64] This year that kind of -[2758.64 --> 2759.74] Rings home more than ever -[2759.74 --> 2761.54] As Mexico has changed -[2761.54 --> 2762.36] A lot over the last -[2762.36 --> 2762.74] Ten years -[2762.74 --> 2763.28] Since we've been -[2763.28 --> 2764.06] Working with Abilino -[2764.06 --> 2765.46] The economy has gone up -[2765.46 --> 2766.86] A lot of the church -[2766.86 --> 2767.20] Members -[2767.20 --> 2768.06] The church has grown -[2768.06 --> 2768.42] To now -[2768.42 --> 2768.96] It's almost 100 -[2768.96 --> 2770.64] Professing adult members -[2770.64 --> 2770.94] Now -[2770.94 --> 2772.68] It's grown huge -[2772.68 --> 2773.48] They're doing better -[2773.48 --> 2774.12] They of course -[2774.12 --> 2774.94] Are still in poverty -[2774.94 --> 2776.44] But the big change -[2776.44 --> 2777.40] We saw when me -[2777.40 --> 2778.44] Chris, Kevin -[2778.44 --> 2778.84] And Aaron -[2778.84 --> 2779.34] Went down -[2779.34 --> 2780.72] In this past winter -[2780.72 --> 2782.12] Is a bunch of -[2782.12 --> 2782.82] Migrants have now -[2782.82 --> 2783.26] Moved in -[2783.26 --> 2783.80] Immigrants from -[2783.80 --> 2784.54] South America -[2784.54 --> 2786.52] Who are fleeing wars -[2786.52 --> 2787.22] Things like that -[2787.22 --> 2787.70] Famine -[2787.70 --> 2788.88] They've moved into -[2788.88 --> 2789.20] Mexico -[2789.20 --> 2789.78] And they've actually -[2789.78 --> 2790.36] Moved into -[2790.36 --> 2791.24] Abilino's community -[2791.24 --> 2791.96] And they have taken -[2791.96 --> 2792.86] Over any square inch -[2792.86 --> 2793.32] Of the land -[2793.32 --> 2794.56] What that means -[2794.56 --> 2795.28] Is cosmetically -[2795.28 --> 2795.96] As well as just -[2795.96 --> 2797.26] Actually physically -[2797.26 --> 2798.66] The financial situation -[2798.66 --> 2799.02] In Mexico -[2799.02 --> 2800.12] Has gone back -[2800.12 --> 2800.88] 20 years -[2800.88 --> 2801.38] Essentially -[2801.38 --> 2802.86] In this area -[2802.86 --> 2804.42] There's shacks again -[2804.42 --> 2806.16] There's you know -[2806.16 --> 2807.28] Ten person families -[2807.28 --> 2808.12] Living in a -[2808.12 --> 2810.32] Maybe the size of the piano -[2810.32 --> 2811.50] Shack kind of thing -[2811.50 --> 2812.82] It's just a bedroom -[2812.82 --> 2813.42] There's no kitchen -[2813.42 --> 2814.24] There's no running water -[2814.24 --> 2815.00] There's no toilets -[2815.00 --> 2815.76] Things like that -[2815.76 --> 2817.04] So Mexico has really -[2817.04 --> 2818.52] Gone back a long ways -[2818.52 --> 2819.54] And this was something -[2819.54 --> 2820.68] Abilino even struggled -[2820.68 --> 2821.20] With himself -[2821.20 --> 2821.92] As they've put in -[2821.92 --> 2822.56] So much work -[2822.56 --> 2823.94] Into this community -[2823.94 --> 2824.58] And so much love -[2824.58 --> 2825.16] And blood and sweat -[2825.16 --> 2825.54] And tears -[2825.54 --> 2826.24] And now it's like -[2826.24 --> 2827.16] Everything's kind of -[2827.16 --> 2827.74] Gone back -[2827.74 --> 2828.46] I mean their soccer -[2828.46 --> 2829.12] Fields are gone -[2829.12 --> 2829.50] Because they got -[2829.50 --> 2830.32] Taken over by the -[2830.32 --> 2830.76] Immigrants -[2830.76 --> 2832.40] As everything's -[2832.40 --> 2832.98] Changed again -[2832.98 --> 2833.78] And I think -[2833.78 --> 2834.56] What was really cool -[2834.56 --> 2835.50] Is this year's trip -[2835.50 --> 2837.08] Besides myself -[2837.08 --> 2837.54] And my wife -[2837.54 --> 2838.12] Nobody's actually -[2838.12 --> 2838.78] Been to Mexico -[2838.78 --> 2839.90] In the last 10 years -[2839.90 --> 2841.08] And never actually -[2841.08 --> 2841.94] Worked in this community -[2841.94 --> 2843.32] None of the youth -[2843.32 --> 2843.96] None of the adults -[2843.96 --> 2844.36] They've gone -[2844.36 --> 2845.02] The adults have gone -[2845.02 --> 2845.66] On the trip before -[2845.66 --> 2847.74] But with the Sandovals -[2847.74 --> 2849.14] So they -[2849.14 --> 2849.96] Not knowing -[2849.96 --> 2850.36] The kind of -[2850.36 --> 2851.22] Economic situation -[2851.22 --> 2851.44] Everything -[2851.44 --> 2852.10] They really chose -[2852.10 --> 2852.96] A cool bible verse -[2852.96 --> 2854.48] That fits the needs -[2854.48 --> 2855.08] And what we're -[2855.08 --> 2855.42] Going to be doing -[2855.42 --> 2855.78] This year -[2855.78 --> 2856.26] Which is kind of -[2856.26 --> 2857.12] Going back to square one -[2857.12 --> 2858.54] And a lot more -[2858.54 --> 2859.30] Evangelizing -[2859.30 --> 2860.74] And helping the people -[2860.74 --> 2861.46] Kind of come to -[2861.46 --> 2862.16] Meet God again -[2862.16 --> 2863.62] It's kind of like -[2863.62 --> 2864.62] Starting back 10 years ago -[2864.62 --> 2865.08] When the church -[2865.08 --> 2865.86] Was eight people -[2865.86 --> 2867.40] But now we're doing it -[2867.40 --> 2867.92] With partnership -[2867.92 --> 2868.64] Of 100 people -[2868.64 --> 2869.06] And trying to -[2869.06 --> 2869.96] Expand that church again -[2869.96 --> 2871.00] And take care of -[2871.00 --> 2871.90] The needs of these people -[2871.90 --> 2872.70] That have moved here -[2872.70 --> 2874.00] Fleeing war -[2874.00 --> 2875.90] And fleeing the drug trade -[2875.90 --> 2876.82] And things like that -[2876.82 --> 2878.12] And now that they're -[2878.12 --> 2878.86] Living in Abilino's -[2878.86 --> 2879.14] Community -[2879.14 --> 2879.64] And trying to -[2879.64 --> 2880.56] Row the community again -[2880.56 --> 2880.92] So -[2880.92 --> 2882.18] And it's going to be -[2882.18 --> 2882.76] Again we're going to -[2882.76 --> 2883.56] Be visiting with people -[2883.56 --> 2884.34] Who live in sheds -[2884.34 --> 2884.94] And it's going to be -[2884.94 --> 2885.94] People of low position -[2885.94 --> 2887.62] And people that -[2887.62 --> 2888.06] You know when you -[2888.06 --> 2888.66] See them on the street -[2888.66 --> 2889.10] You would probably -[2889.10 --> 2889.64] Go to the opposite -[2889.64 --> 2890.24] Side of the street -[2890.24 --> 2890.76] And avoid them -[2890.76 --> 2891.36] And that's the people -[2891.36 --> 2891.68] We're going to be -[2891.68 --> 2892.46] Ministering to again -[2892.46 --> 2893.56] So I think that's -[2893.56 --> 2894.02] Going to be just -[2894.02 --> 2895.82] A really cool part of it -[2895.82 --> 2896.52] As well as why -[2896.52 --> 2897.42] This verse -[2897.42 --> 2898.36] Despite not knowing -[2898.36 --> 2899.28] That really fit -[2899.28 --> 2900.10] This year's trip -[2900.10 --> 2900.56] So -[2900.56 --> 2902.08] Thank you again -[2902.08 --> 2903.10] For all your support guys -[2903.10 --> 2903.94] Again we really -[2903.94 --> 2904.68] Appreciate it -[2904.68 --> 2905.38] It allows this trip -[2905.38 --> 2906.02] To keep going -[2906.02 --> 2906.90] Abilino really -[2906.90 --> 2908.46] Appreciates it as well -[2908.46 --> 2910.32] It's just really -[2910.32 --> 2911.86] Kind of moving moments -[2911.86 --> 2912.56] For all of us youth -[2912.56 --> 2913.20] As well as the people -[2913.20 --> 2913.58] Down there -[2913.58 --> 2914.44] And we all grow a lot -[2914.44 --> 2915.24] In our walk of God -[2915.24 --> 2915.66] For it -[2915.66 --> 2915.96] So -[2915.96 --> 2916.98] Thank you for your -[2916.98 --> 2918.02] Financial support -[2918.02 --> 2930.40] Dear God -[2930.40 --> 2931.36] Thank you for everybody -[2931.36 --> 2931.84] In this community -[2931.84 --> 2932.12] Lord -[2932.12 --> 2932.48] And everybody -[2932.48 --> 2933.08] In this church -[2933.08 --> 2934.54] Thank you for their -[2934.54 --> 2935.34] Giving nature -[2935.34 --> 2935.66] Lord -[2935.66 --> 2936.08] And just their -[2936.08 --> 2937.08] Constant willingness -[2937.08 --> 2937.76] To support -[2937.76 --> 2938.50] You know -[2938.50 --> 2939.26] The Mexico trip -[2939.26 --> 2939.74] As well as just -[2939.74 --> 2940.52] This church community -[2940.52 --> 2940.82] Lord -[2940.82 --> 2941.78] And they always -[2941.78 --> 2942.34] Step up for -[2942.34 --> 2943.56] Everything that we need -[2943.56 --> 2944.62] Lord -[2944.62 --> 2945.00] Lord I pray -[2945.00 --> 2945.42] That you be with -[2945.42 --> 2946.08] The people in Mexico -[2946.08 --> 2946.44] Lord -[2946.44 --> 2947.44] The people that -[2947.44 --> 2948.60] Are in this ministry -[2948.60 --> 2949.16] That we do -[2949.16 --> 2950.14] One week out of the year -[2950.14 --> 2951.02] They do it every day -[2951.02 --> 2952.42] Of their lives -[2952.42 --> 2952.66] Lord -[2952.66 --> 2953.46] And it can be -[2953.46 --> 2954.64] Burdensome -[2954.64 --> 2955.58] It can be tiresome -[2955.58 --> 2956.64] And it can be -[2956.64 --> 2958.10] Just a big strain -[2958.10 --> 2958.60] On their lives -[2958.60 --> 2958.76] Lord -[2958.76 --> 2959.44] I pray that you -[2959.44 --> 2960.20] Support them -[2960.20 --> 2961.38] And you give them -[2961.38 --> 2962.66] Their will -[2962.66 --> 2963.66] And their kind of -[2963.66 --> 2964.44] Fire to keep going -[2964.44 --> 2964.72] Lord -[2964.72 --> 2966.56] Please put your -[2966.56 --> 2967.04] Guiding hand -[2967.04 --> 2967.60] Over all of us -[2967.60 --> 2967.84] Lord -[2967.84 --> 2969.18] And as we leave -[2969.18 --> 2969.82] Your church today -[2969.82 --> 2970.20] As well -[2970.20 --> 2970.70] That we -[2970.70 --> 2971.70] We kind of live -[2971.70 --> 2973.84] Live our church life -[2973.84 --> 2975.06] In our regular life -[2975.06 --> 2975.60] As well Lord -[2975.60 --> 2976.06] And we don't -[2976.06 --> 2977.44] Kind of forget about it -[2977.44 --> 2978.36] We can minister to others -[2978.36 --> 2979.24] Here right at home -[2979.24 --> 2979.64] As well -[2979.64 --> 2981.56] In Jesus name I pray -[2981.56 --> 2981.88] Amen -[2997.84 --> 3013.70] Like a fire -[3013.70 --> 3017.32] Don't let my vision dry -[3017.32 --> 3019.54] I'm calling out -[3019.54 --> 3021.28] Like a fire -[3021.28 --> 3022.32] I'm calling out -[3022.32 --> 3035.38] Like a fire -[3035.38 --> 3039.40] I need a discipline -[3039.40 --> 3041.90] I'm calling out -[3041.90 --> 3043.64] Like a fire -[3043.64 --> 3044.44] I'm calling out -[3044.44 --> 3045.54] Like a fire -[3045.54 --> 3049.50] I'm calling out -[3049.50 --> 3049.76] Like a fire -[3049.76 --> 3079.74] Don't let my mind -[3079.74 --> 3080.74] Like a fire -[3080.74 --> 3081.70] I can't -[3081.70 --> 3084.56] Don't let my vision dry -[3084.56 --> 3086.46] I'm calling out -[3086.46 --> 3088.32] Like a fire -[3088.32 --> 3089.74] I can't -[3089.74 --> 3095.30] I'm calling out -[3095.30 --> 3098.40] In my heart -[3098.40 --> 3099.22] My need -[3099.22 --> 3101.24] I'm calling out -[3101.24 --> 3103.06] Like a fire -[3103.06 --> 3103.84] I can't -[3103.84 --> 3104.74] Like a fire -[3104.74 --> 3105.20] I need to -[3105.20 --> 3106.50] In the blood -[3106.50 --> 3108.64] I'm calling out -[3108.64 --> 3112.04] Light the fire again -[3112.04 --> 3116.92] I'm risen by gold -[3116.92 --> 3119.04] Refined in the fire -[3119.04 --> 3121.28] Taken and poor -[3121.28 --> 3124.32] Wretched and blind I come -[3124.32 --> 3126.38] Both in one -[3126.38 --> 3130.36] So I will be in -[3130.36 --> 3134.28] Lord, light the fire again -[3138.64 --> 3168.32] I didn't even ask you guys to come forward -[3168.32 --> 3169.70] And here you are -[3169.70 --> 3171.14] Good job -[3171.14 --> 3172.60] We're going to do some kids corner -[3172.60 --> 3174.42] And then we're going to head to the back -[3174.42 --> 3175.90] And do some children's worship time -[3175.90 --> 3179.30] But I have to switch hands here -[3179.30 --> 3182.44] You guys ready to say hi to Hank? -[3182.62 --> 3183.68] You have to wake him up -[3183.68 --> 3184.56] He's a little tired -[3184.56 --> 3186.60] Say hi Hank really loudly -[3186.60 --> 3188.16] Hi -[3188.16 --> 3191.98] Hi everybody -[3191.98 --> 3193.78] How are you doing today? -[3195.04 --> 3195.52] Good -[3195.52 --> 3197.20] Hank, guess what we're going to talk about today -[3197.20 --> 3198.16] What's that? -[3198.32 --> 3199.58] We are going to talk about -[3199.58 --> 3202.80] One of the biggest underdogs in the Bible -[3202.80 --> 3205.28] There's dogs in the Bible? -[3206.08 --> 3207.42] Well, yes -[3207.42 --> 3208.40] But not what you're thinking -[3208.40 --> 3210.98] Well, what's the dogs in the Bible? -[3211.68 --> 3213.38] Well, the dogs in the Bible are -[3213.38 --> 3215.06] Actually what Jesus calls the Pharisees -[3215.06 --> 3218.18] But we're going to talk about an underdog -[3218.18 --> 3220.42] What's an underdog? -[3220.50 --> 3221.22] Should we ask the kids? -[3222.02 --> 3223.80] Kids, do you know what an underdog is? -[3223.80 --> 3224.98] What's an underdog? -[3224.98 --> 3226.24] Any idea? -[3226.24 --> 3226.74] No? -[3226.74 --> 3227.24] Ha! -[3227.24 --> 3233.62] We can open up this, Ken, if you want -[3233.62 --> 3236.34] Aren't the Canucks mostly an underdog? -[3236.34 --> 3237.30] Yeah, they are -[3237.30 --> 3244.02] Underdog is when you are maybe not supposed to win something -[3244.02 --> 3244.60] Oh! -[3244.60 --> 3252.66] So if you are in a sport and maybe your team is supposed to lose and you're playing a really, really good team -[3252.66 --> 3254.12] That would be an underdog -[3254.12 --> 3255.30] Oh, okay! -[3255.70 --> 3258.52] But there's an underdog in the Bible that we're going to talk about -[3258.52 --> 3263.24] Because he was volunteering to fight a giant -[3263.24 --> 3266.30] And the giant was supposed to win -[3266.30 --> 3267.66] Does anybody know that story? -[3267.90 --> 3268.62] I think I do! -[3269.06 --> 3269.68] What is it, Emma? -[3269.74 --> 3270.08] Do you know? -[3273.26 --> 3273.80] That's right! -[3273.86 --> 3275.24] That was the giant, Goliath -[3275.24 --> 3276.64] And what's the underdog's name? -[3276.70 --> 3278.44] What's the little guy who was going to fight him? -[3279.20 --> 3279.42] Yeah -[3279.42 --> 3280.28] What is it? -[3282.70 --> 3283.42] That's David! -[3283.52 --> 3283.88] That's right! -[3283.92 --> 3286.46] So we're going to talk about David and Goliath today, okay? -[3286.52 --> 3287.14] Does that sound good? -[3287.42 --> 3287.76] Yeah! -[3287.76 --> 3289.30] So, yes, what's up, Zoe? -[3289.56 --> 3291.16] That's my dad's name, Goliath -[3291.16 --> 3292.38] Is it because his name's David? -[3292.76 --> 3295.54] He's also a giant, so that's a little bit confusing, isn't it? -[3296.42 --> 3298.18] All right, we're going to pray -[3298.18 --> 3302.14] And then we're going to head off to children's worship time, okay? -[3302.26 --> 3302.82] Sorry, Dave -[3302.82 --> 3307.42] All right, let's fold our hands and close our eyes -[3307.42 --> 3310.14] And then we'll pray and we'll go to children's worship time, okay? -[3310.88 --> 3311.20] All right -[3311.20 --> 3312.76] Dear God, thank you for this day -[3312.76 --> 3314.04] Thank you that we can come to church -[3314.04 --> 3317.52] And that we can listen to the Bible and hear Bible stories -[3317.52 --> 3319.46] And sing songs to you, Lord -[3319.46 --> 3320.82] We pray that you'll be with us now -[3320.82 --> 3322.78] As we learn more about the Bible -[3322.78 --> 3324.50] And more about what it means to be -[3324.50 --> 3326.62] Who you've created us to be -[3326.62 --> 3328.20] Be with our parents, too -[3328.20 --> 3329.30] As they stay in church -[3329.30 --> 3330.84] And learn more about your word as well -[3330.84 --> 3332.14] We pray this in your name -[3332.14 --> 3332.70] Amen -[3332.70 --> 3334.72] All right, let's stand up -[3334.72 --> 3335.66] Say bye to Hank -[3335.66 --> 3337.60] Bye, kids! -[3338.30 --> 3339.64] All right, and now let's do -[3339.64 --> 3340.74] The -[3340.74 --> 3343.24] Children's blessing, okay? -[3343.24 --> 3343.82] We're going to say -[3343.82 --> 3345.24] The Lord be with you together -[3345.24 --> 3345.74] Are you ready? -[3345.94 --> 3346.44] Hands up -[3346.44 --> 3347.98] And one, two, three -[3347.98 --> 3350.14] The Lord be with you -[3373.24 --> 3380.92] I just want to -[3380.92 --> 3382.46] Is this on? -[3382.76 --> 3383.32] Lights on -[3383.32 --> 3385.38] I just want to -[3385.38 --> 3387.26] Give a little -[3387.26 --> 3388.74] Heads up -[3388.74 --> 3390.86] We started our prayer ministry -[3390.86 --> 3393.30] Much the same as we had before -[3393.30 --> 3396.52] So the yellow cards that people wear -[3396.52 --> 3397.36] Are these -[3397.36 --> 3399.10] They tell me this is yellow -[3399.10 --> 3400.52] So it's yellow -[3400.52 --> 3404.26] I also want to give you a bit of heads up -[3404.26 --> 3405.56] On some of the -[3405.56 --> 3408.98] Situations that people are facing right now -[3408.98 --> 3409.82] In our midst -[3409.82 --> 3411.00] And out of our midst -[3411.00 --> 3411.98] And the first one is -[3411.98 --> 3414.92] Women Amy Cron used to be members here -[3414.92 --> 3417.26] And Amy has cancer -[3417.26 --> 3419.22] And it's already stage four -[3419.22 --> 3421.58] I don't know a lot about the details -[3421.58 --> 3422.76] But if some of you know her -[3422.76 --> 3424.04] Just give her a call -[3424.04 --> 3426.60] Pete -[3426.60 --> 3428.56] I want to be with Pete -[3428.56 --> 3429.54] And his entire family -[3429.54 --> 3430.58] His mom's in the hospital -[3430.58 --> 3431.90] She's been there for a week or two -[3431.90 --> 3433.06] She's not doing well -[3433.06 --> 3434.72] Not well at all -[3434.72 --> 3436.76] So I want to remember Wes -[3436.76 --> 3437.46] And Lena -[3437.46 --> 3438.68] And the entire family -[3438.68 --> 3440.26] Cy and Greta -[3440.26 --> 3442.20] You all know about Cy -[3442.20 --> 3443.50] He has cancer as well -[3443.50 --> 3444.14] He's being treated -[3444.14 --> 3447.22] I have an uncle in Holland -[3447.22 --> 3450.06] His name is Hank Letink -[3450.06 --> 3451.90] He is probably one of the younger -[3451.90 --> 3453.76] In-laws -[3453.76 --> 3455.44] From all of my mom -[3455.44 --> 3456.28] And her sisters -[3456.28 --> 3458.66] And he is also in palliative care -[3458.66 --> 3460.90] Been about a week or two now -[3460.90 --> 3463.40] Leanne Harris' father -[3463.40 --> 3465.24] Is in palliative care as well -[3465.24 --> 3467.70] We also want to remember -[3467.70 --> 3468.66] Eva Kolkman -[3468.66 --> 3470.94] And then we want to remember -[3470.94 --> 3473.08] The people who are traveling right now -[3473.08 --> 3474.88] One of the Wynn boys -[3474.88 --> 3476.58] Is traveling with his team -[3476.58 --> 3477.26] As is -[3477.26 --> 3479.04] One of the Alkama boys -[3479.04 --> 3481.04] And then we want to pray -[3481.04 --> 3482.06] Especially for our students -[3482.06 --> 3482.54] Who are -[3482.54 --> 3484.44] Away and -[3484.44 --> 3486.04] Travel back and forth -[3486.04 --> 3486.62] All the time -[3486.62 --> 3488.20] Let's pray -[3488.20 --> 3491.34] Father in heaven -[3491.34 --> 3492.12] Lord thank you -[3492.12 --> 3494.96] Thank you that you are -[3494.96 --> 3496.24] Here with us -[3496.24 --> 3496.70] Where -[3496.70 --> 3498.20] One or two are gathered -[3498.20 --> 3499.58] You promise to be with us -[3499.58 --> 3502.24] Thank you that we can do that -[3502.24 --> 3503.16] Thank you that we can -[3503.16 --> 3503.96] Be here -[3503.96 --> 3506.08] Where we pray for the people -[3506.08 --> 3506.70] Who can't -[3506.70 --> 3508.16] Some of the ones -[3508.16 --> 3509.24] That we mentioned already -[3509.24 --> 3510.56] For various reasons -[3510.56 --> 3510.92] Lord -[3510.92 --> 3513.96] Whether it's in the hospital -[3513.96 --> 3515.14] Or treatments -[3515.14 --> 3515.76] Or -[3515.76 --> 3518.26] Even things like colds -[3518.26 --> 3519.42] With the kids at school -[3519.42 --> 3519.82] Etc -[3519.82 --> 3520.70] And they can't come -[3520.70 --> 3521.58] Because of -[3521.58 --> 3525.08] Spreading the stuff -[3525.08 --> 3526.88] Lord we pray for -[3526.88 --> 3527.92] All these people -[3527.92 --> 3528.42] Who have -[3528.42 --> 3530.26] Issues -[3530.26 --> 3531.16] Whether it's -[3531.16 --> 3533.42] End of life -[3533.42 --> 3533.86] Or -[3533.86 --> 3536.08] Things that -[3536.08 --> 3537.36] You don't really expect -[3537.36 --> 3541.20] Lord there are so many people -[3541.20 --> 3542.10] With cancer -[3542.10 --> 3543.10] What a -[3543.10 --> 3545.84] Bad -[3545.84 --> 3546.70] Word -[3546.70 --> 3549.74] Lord we pray for each one of them -[3549.74 --> 3550.50] That you will -[3550.50 --> 3552.00] Be with them -[3552.00 --> 3552.70] Will you touch them -[3552.70 --> 3553.14] Will you -[3553.14 --> 3554.14] Help them to realize -[3554.14 --> 3555.76] That you are totally in control -[3555.76 --> 3558.22] You allow stuff to happen -[3558.22 --> 3558.52] That -[3558.52 --> 3559.82] We don't understand why -[3559.82 --> 3562.18] But also Lord -[3562.18 --> 3563.22] You use that -[3563.22 --> 3563.52] To -[3563.52 --> 3564.70] Maybe wake us up -[3564.70 --> 3566.40] Or maybe call us home -[3566.40 --> 3568.02] And that's never easy -[3568.02 --> 3570.40] Lord we pray for the people -[3570.40 --> 3572.28] Who have gone -[3572.28 --> 3575.06] To glory before us -[3575.06 --> 3577.02] And we pray for those -[3577.02 --> 3577.74] Empty seats -[3577.74 --> 3580.10] And Lord we all know -[3580.10 --> 3580.64] Some -[3580.64 --> 3581.32] Or many -[3581.32 --> 3583.80] Lord we pray for this church -[3583.80 --> 3584.98] We thank you for this church -[3584.98 --> 3586.12] We thank you for our staff -[3586.12 --> 3588.86] We thank you for all the volunteers -[3588.86 --> 3590.48] That do so much -[3590.48 --> 3592.88] We pray Lord -[3592.88 --> 3594.04] Will you be with the young ones -[3594.04 --> 3594.52] As they -[3594.52 --> 3595.36] Get taught -[3595.36 --> 3596.26] Right now -[3596.26 --> 3597.58] We pray -[3597.58 --> 3598.44] Will you open their hearts -[3598.44 --> 3599.04] And their minds -[3599.04 --> 3599.66] And their ears -[3599.66 --> 3601.78] Lord will you help us -[3601.78 --> 3602.48] At home as well -[3602.48 --> 3604.06] To teach the younger ones -[3604.06 --> 3607.04] Where will you be with the teachers -[3607.04 --> 3608.42] And the school kids -[3608.42 --> 3611.06] Lord thank you that we can -[3611.06 --> 3611.88] Look forward to Easter -[3611.88 --> 3613.04] Thank you that we can -[3613.04 --> 3614.50] So look forward to that -[3614.50 --> 3615.90] When you came -[3615.90 --> 3618.36] And think about what you -[3618.36 --> 3619.38] Had to endure Lord -[3619.38 --> 3621.84] And help us to be -[3621.84 --> 3623.30] In the world -[3623.30 --> 3624.84] But not of the world -[3624.84 --> 3626.28] And help us to know -[3626.28 --> 3626.88] The difference -[3626.88 --> 3629.74] Lord thank you for your blessings -[3629.74 --> 3631.04] Because we are so blessed -[3631.04 --> 3631.50] To live -[3631.50 --> 3632.72] Where we live -[3632.72 --> 3633.72] And how we live -[3633.72 --> 3635.84] Thank you that we can -[3635.84 --> 3636.50] Study Romans -[3636.50 --> 3637.30] Right now -[3637.30 --> 3639.34] And we pray for Pastor Chris -[3639.34 --> 3640.52] As he leads us through that -[3640.52 --> 3642.50] Lord we pray -[3642.50 --> 3643.70] Will you give us a good day -[3643.70 --> 3644.26] Will you help us -[3644.26 --> 3645.18] To think about others -[3645.18 --> 3646.06] And not just ourselves -[3646.06 --> 3646.90] Will you help us -[3646.90 --> 3647.90] To pray for the others -[3647.90 --> 3649.10] We all have people -[3649.10 --> 3649.90] Lord in our lives -[3649.90 --> 3652.92] That we could pray for -[3652.92 --> 3656.24] Whether it's alone -[3656.24 --> 3657.20] Or with them -[3657.20 --> 3659.14] But especially for them -[3659.14 --> 3660.98] Thank you for your love -[3660.98 --> 3661.94] And your grace -[3661.94 --> 3663.08] In Jesus name we pray -[3663.08 --> 3663.50] Amen -[3667.30 --> 3697.28] If you have -[3697.28 --> 3698.36] A Bible with you -[3698.36 --> 3699.50] I'm going to encourage you -[3699.50 --> 3700.36] To open it up -[3700.36 --> 3702.42] Like Dick said -[3702.42 --> 3703.12] We're going to continue -[3703.12 --> 3703.78] In our series -[3703.78 --> 3704.56] In the book of Romans -[3704.56 --> 3706.44] And we're going to read -[3706.44 --> 3707.94] From Romans 3 -[3707.94 --> 3715.36] The first 20 verses there -[3715.36 --> 3723.98] Before we do that -[3723.98 --> 3731.20] One of the privileges -[3731.20 --> 3733.00] Of being a pastor -[3733.00 --> 3734.68] Is that I get to talk -[3734.68 --> 3735.08] With people -[3735.08 --> 3735.94] And I get to enter -[3735.94 --> 3736.78] Into the lives -[3736.78 --> 3737.54] And circumstances -[3737.54 --> 3738.10] Of people -[3738.10 --> 3739.68] And hear about -[3739.68 --> 3740.60] What's going on -[3740.60 --> 3741.62] And sometimes -[3741.62 --> 3742.74] We get to share -[3742.74 --> 3743.86] Hopes and dreams -[3743.86 --> 3744.52] For life -[3744.52 --> 3745.32] And for the world -[3745.32 --> 3746.46] And sometimes -[3746.46 --> 3747.58] We lament -[3747.58 --> 3748.78] And cry together -[3748.78 --> 3749.82] And enter into -[3749.82 --> 3751.24] The dark night -[3751.24 --> 3751.92] Of the soul -[3751.92 --> 3754.46] And whether it's -[3754.46 --> 3755.30] In joy -[3755.30 --> 3757.16] Or in lament -[3757.16 --> 3759.14] One of the cries -[3759.14 --> 3761.50] Is often -[3761.50 --> 3762.52] Is regularly -[3762.52 --> 3764.46] For change -[3764.46 --> 3765.86] Right? -[3765.94 --> 3766.66] For something -[3766.66 --> 3767.72] Different -[3767.72 --> 3768.46] For either more -[3768.46 --> 3769.26] Of this -[3769.26 --> 3770.42] In spite of this -[3770.42 --> 3771.58] Or for less -[3771.58 --> 3772.28] Of that -[3772.28 --> 3773.04] In the midst -[3773.04 --> 3773.86] Of whatever pain -[3773.86 --> 3774.74] Or heartache -[3774.74 --> 3776.04] We are feeling -[3776.04 --> 3776.88] The cry is -[3776.88 --> 3777.76] For the world -[3777.76 --> 3779.60] To change -[3779.60 --> 3782.46] And you know -[3782.46 --> 3783.92] From birth -[3783.92 --> 3784.58] When I talk -[3784.58 --> 3785.26] With parents -[3785.26 --> 3785.86] And they go -[3785.86 --> 3786.50] You know -[3786.50 --> 3787.14] I just want -[3787.14 --> 3788.20] God to use -[3788.20 --> 3788.82] My child -[3788.82 --> 3789.76] To change -[3789.76 --> 3790.72] The world -[3790.72 --> 3791.08] Or -[3791.08 --> 3793.80] In the face -[3793.80 --> 3795.66] Of breakdowns -[3795.66 --> 3796.58] Of relationships -[3796.58 --> 3797.46] Or death -[3797.46 --> 3797.96] That we just -[3797.96 --> 3799.02] Want the world -[3799.02 --> 3799.72] To change -[3799.72 --> 3800.58] Or in the -[3800.58 --> 3801.68] Apparent -[3801.68 --> 3802.52] Or seeming -[3802.52 --> 3803.12] Decay -[3803.12 --> 3804.04] Of society -[3804.04 --> 3804.54] We just -[3804.54 --> 3805.52] Want the world -[3805.52 --> 3806.56] To change -[3806.56 --> 3810.96] As we come -[3810.96 --> 3812.28] To God's -[3812.28 --> 3812.82] Word -[3812.82 --> 3814.74] As we come -[3814.74 --> 3815.18] From whatever -[3815.18 --> 3816.28] Life circumstance -[3816.28 --> 3817.26] You may be facing -[3817.26 --> 3817.80] Rejoicing -[3817.80 --> 3818.32] Or mourning -[3818.32 --> 3818.92] And the like -[3818.92 --> 3819.82] As we come -[3819.82 --> 3820.68] Crying out -[3820.68 --> 3822.28] For change -[3822.28 --> 3823.62] And transformation -[3823.62 --> 3825.32] Come -[3825.32 --> 3827.14] And hear -[3827.14 --> 3827.56] What God -[3827.56 --> 3828.30] Has to say -[3828.30 --> 3829.90] And maybe -[3829.90 --> 3831.40] We'll be surprised -[3831.40 --> 3832.20] At how that -[3832.20 --> 3832.92] Change -[3832.92 --> 3833.94] Can actually -[3833.94 --> 3835.04] Happen -[3835.04 --> 3837.26] Let's read -[3837.26 --> 3838.20] Romans 3 -[3838.20 --> 3840.04] Together -[3840.04 --> 3845.38] Paul writes -[3845.38 --> 3847.62] What advantage -[3847.62 --> 3848.98] Then is there -[3848.98 --> 3850.18] In being a Jew -[3850.18 --> 3851.46] Or what value -[3851.46 --> 3852.10] Is there -[3852.10 --> 3853.18] In circumcision -[3853.18 --> 3854.64] Much -[3854.64 --> 3855.74] In every way -[3855.74 --> 3857.42] First of all -[3857.42 --> 3857.98] The Jews -[3857.98 --> 3858.96] Have been entrusted -[3858.96 --> 3859.56] With the very -[3859.56 --> 3860.66] Words of God -[3860.66 --> 3863.40] What if -[3863.40 --> 3863.92] Some are -[3863.92 --> 3864.52] Unfaithful -[3864.52 --> 3866.06] Will their -[3866.06 --> 3866.78] Unfaithfulness -[3866.78 --> 3867.32] Nullify -[3867.32 --> 3867.78] God's -[3867.78 --> 3868.20] Faithfulness -[3868.20 --> 3870.34] Not at all -[3870.34 --> 3871.16] Let God -[3871.16 --> 3871.60] Be true -[3871.60 --> 3872.14] And every -[3872.14 --> 3872.70] Human being -[3872.70 --> 3873.18] A liar -[3873.18 --> 3874.00] As it -[3874.00 --> 3874.46] Is written -[3874.46 --> 3877.56] So that -[3877.56 --> 3877.98] You may -[3877.98 --> 3878.50] Be proved -[3878.50 --> 3878.90] Right -[3878.90 --> 3879.34] When you -[3879.34 --> 3879.70] Speak -[3879.70 --> 3880.42] And prevail -[3880.42 --> 3880.96] When you -[3880.96 --> 3881.38] Judge -[3881.38 --> 3883.06] But if -[3883.06 --> 3883.38] Our -[3883.38 --> 3884.42] Unrighteousness -[3884.42 --> 3885.12] Brings out -[3885.12 --> 3885.84] God's -[3885.84 --> 3886.50] Righteousness -[3886.50 --> 3887.18] More clearly -[3887.18 --> 3887.98] What shall -[3887.98 --> 3888.46] We say -[3888.46 --> 3889.56] That God -[3889.56 --> 3890.26] Is unjust -[3890.26 --> 3890.76] In bringing -[3890.76 --> 3891.38] His wrath -[3891.38 --> 3891.94] On us -[3891.94 --> 3892.84] I'm using -[3892.84 --> 3893.24] A human -[3893.24 --> 3893.76] Argument -[3893.76 --> 3894.76] Certainly -[3894.76 --> 3895.16] Not -[3895.16 --> 3896.18] If that -[3896.18 --> 3896.58] Were so -[3896.58 --> 3897.16] How could -[3897.16 --> 3897.72] God judge -[3897.72 --> 3898.20] The world -[3898.20 --> 3899.68] Someone might -[3899.68 --> 3900.02] Argue -[3900.02 --> 3900.48] If my -[3900.48 --> 3900.98] Falsehood -[3900.98 --> 3901.58] Enhances -[3901.58 --> 3902.06] God's -[3902.06 --> 3902.76] Truthfulness -[3902.76 --> 3903.58] And so -[3903.58 --> 3904.18] Increases -[3904.18 --> 3904.88] His glory -[3904.88 --> 3905.76] Why am -[3905.76 --> 3906.24] I still -[3906.24 --> 3906.84] Condemned -[3906.84 --> 3907.22] As a -[3907.22 --> 3907.52] Sinner -[3907.52 --> 3908.94] Why not -[3908.94 --> 3909.34] Say -[3909.34 --> 3910.22] As some -[3910.22 --> 3911.00] Slanderously -[3911.00 --> 3911.44] Claim -[3911.44 --> 3911.86] That we -[3911.86 --> 3912.22] Say -[3912.22 --> 3913.04] Let us -[3913.04 --> 3913.58] Do evil -[3913.58 --> 3914.08] That good -[3914.08 --> 3914.76] May result -[3914.76 --> 3916.12] Their -[3916.12 --> 3917.02] Condemnation -[3917.02 --> 3917.94] Is just -[3917.94 --> 3920.38] What shall -[3920.38 --> 3921.16] We conclude -[3921.16 --> 3921.54] Then -[3921.54 --> 3922.96] Do we -[3922.96 --> 3923.48] Have any -[3923.48 --> 3924.12] Advantage -[3924.12 --> 3925.32] Not at -[3925.32 --> 3925.58] All -[3925.58 --> 3926.78] For we -[3926.78 --> 3927.48] Have already -[3927.48 --> 3927.92] Made the -[3927.92 --> 3928.26] Charge -[3928.26 --> 3928.74] That Jews -[3928.74 --> 3929.36] And Gentiles -[3929.36 --> 3929.76] Alike -[3929.76 --> 3930.26] Are all -[3930.26 --> 3930.74] Under the -[3930.74 --> 3931.02] Power -[3931.02 --> 3931.52] Of sin -[3931.52 --> 3932.70] As it -[3932.70 --> 3933.10] Is written -[3933.10 --> 3934.84] There is -[3934.84 --> 3935.54] No one -[3935.54 --> 3936.36] Righteous -[3936.36 --> 3937.18] Not even -[3937.18 --> 3937.74] One -[3937.74 --> 3938.12] There is -[3938.12 --> 3938.64] No one -[3938.64 --> 3939.50] Who understands -[3939.50 --> 3940.34] There is -[3940.34 --> 3940.96] No one -[3940.96 --> 3941.46] Who seeks -[3941.46 --> 3941.86] God -[3941.86 --> 3942.76] All have -[3942.76 --> 3943.14] Turned -[3943.14 --> 3943.52] Away -[3943.52 --> 3944.14] They have -[3944.14 --> 3944.50] Together -[3944.50 --> 3944.94] Become -[3944.94 --> 3945.52] Worthless -[3945.52 --> 3945.94] There is -[3945.94 --> 3946.60] No one -[3946.60 --> 3947.20] Who does -[3947.20 --> 3947.60] Good -[3947.60 --> 3948.84] Not even -[3948.84 --> 3949.64] One -[3949.64 --> 3950.92] Their -[3950.92 --> 3951.42] Throats -[3951.42 --> 3952.04] Are open -[3952.04 --> 3952.60] Graves -[3952.60 --> 3953.14] Their tongues -[3953.14 --> 3954.14] Practice deceit -[3954.14 --> 3954.96] The poison -[3954.96 --> 3955.56] Of vipers -[3955.56 --> 3956.08] Is on their -[3956.08 --> 3956.34] Lips -[3956.34 --> 3957.02] Their mouths -[3957.02 --> 3957.54] Are full -[3957.54 --> 3958.24] Of cursing -[3958.24 --> 3958.98] And bitterness -[3958.98 --> 3959.88] Their feet -[3959.88 --> 3960.50] Are swift -[3960.50 --> 3961.04] To shed -[3961.04 --> 3961.46] Blood -[3961.46 --> 3962.22] Ruin -[3962.22 --> 3962.90] And misery -[3962.90 --> 3963.52] Mark their -[3963.52 --> 3963.92] Ways -[3963.92 --> 3964.22] And the -[3964.22 --> 3964.48] Way -[3964.48 --> 3965.10] Of peace -[3965.10 --> 3965.54] They do -[3965.54 --> 3966.02] Not know -[3966.02 --> 3966.82] There is -[3966.82 --> 3967.58] No fear -[3967.58 --> 3968.26] Of God -[3968.26 --> 3969.36] Before their -[3969.36 --> 3969.76] Eyes -[3969.76 --> 3972.38] Now we know -[3972.38 --> 3973.40] That whatever the law -[3973.40 --> 3975.04] Says it says to those -[3975.04 --> 3976.02] Who are under the law -[3976.02 --> 3977.26] So that every mouth -[3977.26 --> 3978.24] May be silenced -[3978.24 --> 3979.58] And the whole world -[3979.58 --> 3980.60] Held accountable -[3980.60 --> 3981.52] To God -[3981.52 --> 3983.32] Therefore -[3983.32 --> 3984.38] No one will be -[3984.38 --> 3985.12] Declared righteous -[3985.12 --> 3986.18] In God's sight -[3986.18 --> 3986.90] By the works -[3986.90 --> 3987.52] Of the law -[3987.52 --> 3988.16] Rather -[3988.16 --> 3989.30] Through the law -[3989.30 --> 3989.86] We become -[3989.86 --> 3990.52] Conscious -[3990.52 --> 3992.08] Of our -[3992.08 --> 3992.94] Sin -[3992.94 --> 3995.12] This is the word -[3995.12 --> 3995.54] Of the Lord -[3995.54 --> 4004.16] We've been in the book -[4004.16 --> 4004.70] Of Romans -[4004.70 --> 4007.16] For about -[4007.16 --> 4008.22] Six or seven weeks -[4008.22 --> 4008.90] Now -[4008.90 --> 4011.16] And I just want to say -[4011.16 --> 4012.44] And say thank you -[4012.44 --> 4013.26] Because I've been really -[4013.26 --> 4014.46] Encouraged by -[4014.46 --> 4016.28] Your engagements -[4016.28 --> 4017.72] And by your feedback -[4017.72 --> 4018.78] By your willingness -[4018.78 --> 4020.26] To dig deep -[4020.26 --> 4021.22] Into the scriptures -[4021.22 --> 4021.86] Of God -[4021.86 --> 4022.86] And the emails -[4022.86 --> 4023.34] I get -[4023.34 --> 4024.12] And the conversations -[4024.12 --> 4024.76] That I have -[4024.76 --> 4026.44] Have been good -[4026.44 --> 4027.34] And encouraging -[4027.34 --> 4027.78] For me -[4027.78 --> 4029.02] And so thank you -[4029.02 --> 4029.70] For that -[4029.70 --> 4031.64] But I also know -[4031.64 --> 4032.34] That it hasn't -[4032.34 --> 4033.52] Always been easy -[4033.52 --> 4034.38] Right -[4034.38 --> 4035.52] That some of this -[4035.52 --> 4036.86] Stuff -[4036.86 --> 4037.48] And these texts -[4037.48 --> 4038.18] Have been hard -[4038.18 --> 4039.58] Both intellectually -[4039.58 --> 4040.80] To understand -[4040.80 --> 4042.36] But also emotionally -[4042.36 --> 4043.72] To reflect on -[4043.72 --> 4044.16] Right -[4044.16 --> 4044.98] And to live -[4044.98 --> 4045.82] In the midst of -[4045.82 --> 4048.60] Now in a -[4048.60 --> 4049.98] Piece of scripture -[4049.98 --> 4050.92] That is really -[4050.92 --> 4051.94] Encouraging to me -[4051.94 --> 4053.16] Or encouraging -[4053.16 --> 4054.00] To my mind -[4054.00 --> 4056.16] In second Peter -[4056.16 --> 4057.50] Peter writes -[4057.50 --> 4058.88] This -[4058.88 --> 4059.56] Of Paul -[4059.56 --> 4059.96] He says -[4059.96 --> 4060.26] He -[4060.26 --> 4060.82] Paul -[4060.82 --> 4062.38] Writes the same way -[4062.38 --> 4063.28] In all his letters -[4063.28 --> 4065.20] Speaking in them -[4065.20 --> 4066.50] Of these matters -[4066.50 --> 4067.26] His letters -[4067.26 --> 4068.50] Contain some things -[4068.50 --> 4069.16] That are hard -[4069.16 --> 4070.08] To understand -[4070.08 --> 4071.14] Which ignorant -[4071.14 --> 4072.16] And unstable people -[4072.16 --> 4072.62] Distort -[4072.62 --> 4073.42] As they do -[4073.42 --> 4074.06] Other scriptures -[4074.06 --> 4075.14] To their own -[4075.14 --> 4075.98] Destruction -[4075.98 --> 4079.02] So even Peter -[4079.02 --> 4079.92] Right -[4079.92 --> 4080.94] Who's an author -[4080.94 --> 4081.64] Of scripture -[4081.64 --> 4083.02] Right -[4083.02 --> 4083.94] The disciple -[4083.94 --> 4084.72] On whom -[4084.72 --> 4085.64] Jesus will build -[4085.64 --> 4086.10] His church -[4086.10 --> 4086.70] The rock -[4086.70 --> 4087.24] On whom -[4087.24 --> 4088.04] That Jesus -[4088.04 --> 4088.34] Will build -[4088.34 --> 4088.60] His church -[4088.60 --> 4089.16] And the gates -[4089.16 --> 4089.56] Of hell -[4089.56 --> 4090.28] Will not overcome -[4090.28 --> 4090.58] It -[4090.58 --> 4091.06] Right -[4091.06 --> 4091.94] Even Peter -[4091.94 --> 4092.90] Goes -[4092.90 --> 4093.26] Yeah -[4093.26 --> 4095.30] Paul's pretty hard -[4095.30 --> 4097.72] Some of this -[4097.72 --> 4099.06] Is pretty tough -[4099.06 --> 4100.90] And so if you've -[4100.90 --> 4101.58] Been challenged -[4101.58 --> 4102.36] By this -[4102.36 --> 4104.38] You're in good -[4104.38 --> 4104.80] Company -[4104.80 --> 4106.48] Right -[4106.48 --> 4107.38] And thank you -[4107.38 --> 4108.08] For digging in -[4108.08 --> 4108.78] And for following -[4108.78 --> 4109.16] Along -[4109.16 --> 4112.18] Now I bring that -[4112.18 --> 4112.60] Up -[4112.60 --> 4113.36] Specifically -[4113.36 --> 4114.26] This morning -[4114.26 --> 4115.94] Because I think -[4115.94 --> 4117.02] This section -[4117.02 --> 4117.50] Of scripture -[4117.50 --> 4118.36] Might be one of -[4118.36 --> 4119.30] Those particularly -[4119.30 --> 4120.28] Hard -[4120.28 --> 4121.38] Instances -[4121.38 --> 4122.16] Of Paul's -[4122.16 --> 4122.52] Writing -[4122.52 --> 4123.14] One of those -[4123.14 --> 4124.44] Hard passages -[4124.44 --> 4125.02] Of Paul -[4125.02 --> 4125.90] To understand -[4125.90 --> 4126.44] In part -[4126.44 --> 4127.12] Because of the -[4127.12 --> 4127.70] Structure -[4127.70 --> 4128.26] Right -[4128.26 --> 4128.80] In the way -[4128.80 --> 4129.44] That he asks -[4129.44 --> 4130.24] These questions -[4130.24 --> 4131.18] Back and forth -[4131.18 --> 4132.62] But also -[4132.62 --> 4133.66] And maybe you -[4133.66 --> 4134.02] Heard it -[4134.02 --> 4134.72] When we read it -[4134.72 --> 4135.60] Also because -[4135.60 --> 4136.74] It seems in there -[4136.74 --> 4138.30] To be a contradiction -[4138.30 --> 4140.00] Right -[4140.00 --> 4140.64] Did you see it -[4140.64 --> 4141.46] When we first -[4141.46 --> 4141.94] Read it -[4141.94 --> 4142.18] Right -[4142.18 --> 4143.86] Look at verse -[4143.86 --> 4144.56] One and verse -[4144.56 --> 4144.92] Two -[4144.92 --> 4146.08] Right -[4146.08 --> 4147.28] Paul asks -[4147.28 --> 4148.18] What advantages -[4148.18 --> 4149.30] Are there to being -[4149.30 --> 4149.70] A Jew -[4149.70 --> 4150.02] Right -[4150.02 --> 4150.60] What advantages -[4150.60 --> 4151.18] Are there to being -[4151.18 --> 4152.02] Circumcised -[4152.02 --> 4152.56] And he says -[4152.56 --> 4153.02] Much -[4153.02 --> 4154.04] In every way -[4154.04 --> 4155.52] And then he goes -[4155.52 --> 4155.88] On to say -[4155.88 --> 4156.56] That the advantage -[4156.56 --> 4157.16] Is that -[4157.16 --> 4158.06] The Jews -[4158.06 --> 4158.74] Have the word -[4158.74 --> 4159.22] Of God -[4159.22 --> 4160.64] But then -[4160.64 --> 4161.14] In verse -[4161.14 --> 4161.58] Nine -[4161.58 --> 4162.46] He says -[4162.46 --> 4163.70] So what -[4163.70 --> 4164.56] What can we -[4164.56 --> 4165.00] Conclude -[4165.00 --> 4165.64] Do we have -[4165.64 --> 4166.56] Any advantage -[4166.56 --> 4168.44] Not at all -[4168.44 --> 4170.90] Now wait a minute -[4170.90 --> 4171.64] Didn't you just say -[4171.64 --> 4172.58] There was much -[4172.58 --> 4173.52] And now you're -[4173.52 --> 4173.90] Saying there's -[4173.90 --> 4174.38] Not at all -[4174.38 --> 4175.80] There's this -[4175.80 --> 4176.36] Apparent -[4176.36 --> 4177.20] Contradiction -[4177.20 --> 4178.70] And so which is it -[4178.70 --> 4179.14] Are the Jews -[4179.14 --> 4179.88] Better off -[4179.88 --> 4181.50] Or are they not -[4181.50 --> 4182.22] Or -[4182.22 --> 4183.52] Is there a way -[4183.52 --> 4184.38] To understand -[4184.38 --> 4185.18] This -[4185.18 --> 4186.16] That doesn't -[4186.16 --> 4186.60] Make it -[4186.60 --> 4187.68] A contradiction -[4187.68 --> 4189.04] Now -[4189.04 --> 4189.96] I mean if you -[4189.96 --> 4190.34] Know me -[4190.34 --> 4191.08] It won't surprise -[4191.08 --> 4191.42] You to know -[4191.42 --> 4191.82] That I think -[4191.82 --> 4192.38] It's the latter -[4192.38 --> 4193.12] Right -[4193.12 --> 4193.82] That there is a way -[4193.82 --> 4194.84] To understand -[4194.84 --> 4195.42] All of this -[4195.42 --> 4195.76] Together -[4195.76 --> 4196.50] And we'll get -[4196.50 --> 4196.76] There -[4196.76 --> 4197.98] But I want -[4197.98 --> 4198.68] To start -[4198.68 --> 4200.02] By naming -[4200.02 --> 4201.08] And digging -[4201.08 --> 4202.30] Into this -[4202.30 --> 4203.02] Apparent -[4203.02 --> 4204.12] Contradiction -[4204.12 --> 4205.32] And we'll -[4205.32 --> 4206.04] Do the work -[4206.04 --> 4206.96] Then of wrestling -[4206.96 --> 4208.10] With the questions -[4208.10 --> 4208.76] That Paul -[4208.76 --> 4210.36] Asks and raises -[4210.36 --> 4214.12] Now in the -[4214.12 --> 4214.88] Structure of -[4214.88 --> 4216.28] Romans chapter -[4216.28 --> 4216.66] Three -[4216.66 --> 4218.58] The beginning -[4218.58 --> 4219.70] Part here -[4219.70 --> 4221.00] Is for us -[4221.00 --> 4221.70] An example -[4221.70 --> 4222.62] Of Paul -[4222.62 --> 4223.58] Being a -[4223.58 --> 4224.74] Really good -[4224.74 --> 4225.80] Teacher -[4225.80 --> 4227.38] And as a -[4227.38 --> 4227.96] Really good -[4227.96 --> 4228.36] Teacher -[4228.36 --> 4228.92] And I'm looking -[4228.92 --> 4229.50] At some of you -[4229.50 --> 4229.86] Right now -[4229.86 --> 4230.68] Who are teachers -[4230.68 --> 4231.26] Right -[4231.26 --> 4231.90] You know this -[4231.90 --> 4232.58] As a really -[4232.58 --> 4233.58] Good teacher -[4233.58 --> 4235.06] Paul is able -[4235.06 --> 4236.18] To anticipate -[4236.18 --> 4237.26] The kinds -[4237.26 --> 4238.16] Of questions -[4238.16 --> 4238.92] That his -[4238.92 --> 4239.48] Hearers -[4239.48 --> 4240.02] Will ask -[4240.02 --> 4240.40] Of him -[4240.40 --> 4241.72] Right -[4241.72 --> 4242.40] A good teacher -[4242.40 --> 4243.10] Knows -[4243.10 --> 4244.04] What you might -[4244.04 --> 4244.86] Wonder about -[4244.86 --> 4245.42] As he -[4245.42 --> 4246.02] Or she -[4246.02 --> 4246.64] Speaks -[4246.64 --> 4247.28] And then be able -[4247.28 --> 4248.14] To address -[4248.14 --> 4249.08] That in anticipation -[4249.08 --> 4250.32] Of what you say -[4250.32 --> 4252.02] And so for an -[4252.02 --> 4252.60] Example -[4252.60 --> 4255.30] An experienced -[4255.30 --> 4256.28] Maths teacher -[4256.28 --> 4258.06] Will be able -[4258.06 --> 4258.70] To figure out -[4258.70 --> 4259.28] Or can probably -[4259.28 --> 4259.78] Guess -[4259.78 --> 4261.26] What kinds -[4261.26 --> 4261.98] Of questions -[4261.98 --> 4262.98] Her grade nine -[4262.98 --> 4264.16] Students will ask -[4264.16 --> 4265.74] When she introduces -[4265.74 --> 4266.86] The slope -[4266.86 --> 4267.50] Intercept -[4267.50 --> 4267.98] Formula -[4267.98 --> 4269.06] Right -[4269.06 --> 4269.72] Of y -[4269.72 --> 4270.16] Equals -[4270.16 --> 4270.56] Mx -[4270.56 --> 4271.06] Plus b -[4271.06 --> 4272.92] Now how many -[4272.92 --> 4273.36] Of you remember -[4273.36 --> 4273.64] That -[4273.64 --> 4276.26] We got one -[4276.26 --> 4276.90] Excellent -[4276.90 --> 4278.90] So not Rob -[4278.90 --> 4279.94] But maybe -[4279.94 --> 4280.58] A grade nine -[4280.58 --> 4281.00] Student -[4281.00 --> 4282.14] Right -[4282.14 --> 4282.72] What is m -[4282.72 --> 4283.18] Equal -[4283.18 --> 4287.04] Mass -[4287.04 --> 4287.70] Oh wrong -[4287.70 --> 4288.24] Equation -[4288.24 --> 4290.12] The slope -[4290.12 --> 4290.62] Of the line -[4290.62 --> 4292.10] Right -[4292.10 --> 4292.54] What is -[4292.54 --> 4293.86] B -[4293.86 --> 4294.42] Equal -[4294.42 --> 4297.52] The y -[4297.52 --> 4298.00] Intercept -[4298.00 --> 4298.50] Of the line -[4298.50 --> 4299.02] Or the value -[4299.02 --> 4299.46] Of y -[4299.46 --> 4299.94] And x -[4299.94 --> 4301.04] When it -[4301.04 --> 4301.48] Is zero -[4301.48 --> 4302.20] Or value -[4302.20 --> 4302.48] Of y -[4302.48 --> 4302.88] When x -[4302.88 --> 4303.24] Is zero -[4303.24 --> 4304.02] Now I had -[4304.02 --> 4304.26] To look -[4304.26 --> 4304.62] That up -[4304.62 --> 4305.90] So I had -[4305.90 --> 4306.50] Bad teachers -[4306.50 --> 4308.22] It's their fault -[4308.22 --> 4308.66] See what I did -[4308.66 --> 4308.82] There -[4308.82 --> 4309.20] Nice -[4309.20 --> 4311.36] But -[4311.36 --> 4311.98] So the -[4311.98 --> 4312.98] Kids might -[4312.98 --> 4313.38] Ask those -[4313.38 --> 4314.02] Kinds of questions -[4314.02 --> 4314.66] But also -[4314.66 --> 4315.12] The more -[4315.12 --> 4315.50] Difficult -[4315.50 --> 4315.90] Questions -[4315.90 --> 4316.44] Like why -[4316.44 --> 4316.82] On earth -[4316.82 --> 4317.12] Does it -[4317.12 --> 4317.32] Matter -[4317.32 --> 4317.60] If I -[4317.60 --> 4317.74] Know -[4317.74 --> 4318.10] That y -[4318.10 --> 4318.38] Equals -[4318.38 --> 4318.68] Mx -[4318.68 --> 4319.10] Plus b -[4319.10 --> 4321.48] And what's -[4321.48 --> 4321.80] The real -[4321.80 --> 4322.54] World application -[4322.54 --> 4322.96] Of that -[4322.96 --> 4324.90] And a good -[4324.90 --> 4325.20] Teacher -[4325.20 --> 4325.66] Can answer -[4325.66 --> 4325.98] That -[4325.98 --> 4328.96] Right -[4328.96 --> 4329.20] A good -[4329.20 --> 4329.56] Teacher -[4329.56 --> 4330.10] Has -[4330.10 --> 4331.28] Probably -[4331.28 --> 4331.82] Had this -[4331.82 --> 4332.22] Kind of -[4332.22 --> 4332.84] Conversation -[4332.84 --> 4333.30] Before -[4333.30 --> 4334.12] And knows -[4334.12 --> 4334.32] What's -[4334.32 --> 4334.60] Coming -[4334.60 --> 4335.82] Likewise -[4335.82 --> 4336.28] Here's -[4336.28 --> 4336.70] Another -[4336.70 --> 4337.32] Example -[4337.32 --> 4337.96] Right -[4337.96 --> 4339.10] A grade -[4339.10 --> 4339.60] 12 -[4339.60 --> 4340.18] AP -[4340.18 --> 4341.12] English -[4341.12 --> 4341.46] Lit -[4341.46 --> 4341.94] Teacher -[4341.94 --> 4342.84] Knows -[4342.84 --> 4343.38] The sorts -[4343.38 --> 4343.54] Of -[4343.54 --> 4344.08] Questions -[4344.08 --> 4345.20] That he -[4345.20 --> 4345.52] Will get -[4345.52 --> 4345.82] From his -[4345.82 --> 4346.12] Students -[4346.12 --> 4346.86] When he -[4346.86 --> 4347.30] Asks -[4347.30 --> 4347.72] About -[4347.72 --> 4348.02] Mary -[4348.02 --> 4348.54] Shelley's -[4348.54 --> 4349.44] Frankenstein -[4349.44 --> 4350.70] Now I -[4350.70 --> 4350.98] Did my -[4350.98 --> 4351.42] Research -[4351.42 --> 4352.68] Mary -[4352.68 --> 4353.08] Shelley's -[4353.08 --> 4353.50] Frankenstein -[4353.50 --> 4353.86] Is a -[4353.86 --> 4354.04] Book -[4354.04 --> 4354.38] That you -[4354.38 --> 4354.74] Actually -[4354.74 --> 4355.10] Read -[4355.10 --> 4355.24] In -[4355.24 --> 4355.44] Grade -[4355.44 --> 4355.70] 12 -[4355.70 --> 4355.98] AP -[4355.98 --> 4356.46] English -[4356.46 --> 4356.76] And so -[4356.76 --> 4357.00] If you're -[4357.00 --> 4357.08] In -[4357.08 --> 4357.24] Grade -[4357.24 --> 4357.48] 12 -[4357.48 --> 4357.72] AP -[4357.72 --> 4358.04] English -[4358.04 --> 4358.26] This -[4358.26 --> 4358.48] Next -[4358.48 --> 4358.78] Question -[4358.78 --> 4358.96] Is -[4358.96 --> 4359.08] For -[4359.08 --> 4359.32] You -[4359.32 --> 4360.92] In -[4360.92 --> 4361.20] Chapter -[4361.20 --> 4361.84] 13 -[4361.84 --> 4363.26] What does -[4363.26 --> 4363.42] It -[4363.42 --> 4363.80] Mean -[4363.80 --> 4364.44] That -[4364.44 --> 4364.60] The -[4364.60 --> 4365.16] Monster -[4365.16 --> 4366.56] Muses -[4366.56 --> 4367.30] About -[4367.30 --> 4367.54] The -[4367.54 --> 4367.96] Concept -[4367.96 --> 4368.18] Of -[4368.18 --> 4368.92] Monstrosity -[4368.92 --> 4370.26] That is -[4370.26 --> 4370.50] This -[4370.50 --> 4371.22] Created -[4371.22 --> 4371.66] Monster -[4371.66 --> 4371.94] Is -[4371.94 --> 4372.22] Self -[4372.22 --> 4372.48] Aware -[4372.48 --> 4372.76] Enough -[4372.76 --> 4372.96] To -[4372.96 --> 4373.26] Know -[4373.26 --> 4373.78] What -[4373.78 --> 4373.86] It -[4373.86 --> 4374.00] Means -[4374.00 --> 4374.10] To -[4374.10 --> 4374.18] Be -[4374.18 --> 4374.28] A -[4374.28 --> 4374.56] Monster -[4374.56 --> 4376.02] But -[4376.02 --> 4376.10] A -[4376.10 --> 4376.26] Good -[4376.26 --> 4376.76] Teacher -[4376.76 --> 4377.32] Will -[4377.32 --> 4378.10] Anticipate -[4378.10 --> 4378.34] That -[4378.34 --> 4378.92] Question -[4378.92 --> 4380.22] And -[4380.22 --> 4380.42] Help -[4380.42 --> 4380.62] Their -[4381.42 --> 4382.20] Come -[4382.20 --> 4382.34] To -[4382.34 --> 4382.48] An -[4382.48 --> 4382.78] Answer -[4382.78 --> 4383.70] Help -[4383.70 --> 4383.86] Their -[4383.86 --> 4384.18] Students -[4384.18 --> 4384.52] Wrestle -[4384.52 --> 4384.74] With -[4384.74 --> 4384.92] What -[4384.92 --> 4385.06] Is -[4385.06 --> 4385.48] A -[4385.48 --> 4385.78] Concept -[4385.78 --> 4386.00] Of -[4386.00 --> 4386.80] Consciousness -[4386.80 --> 4387.46] In -[4387.46 --> 4387.68] Mary -[4387.68 --> 4388.12] Shelley's -[4388.12 --> 4388.66] Frankenstein -[4388.66 --> 4388.78] Or -[4388.78 --> 4388.92] A -[4388.92 --> 4389.18] Concept -[4389.18 --> 4389.40] Of -[4389.40 --> 4390.08] Soul -[4390.08 --> 4390.62] And -[4390.62 --> 4391.36] Identity -[4391.36 --> 4393.06] That's -[4393.06 --> 4393.22] What -[4393.22 --> 4393.52] Paul -[4393.52 --> 4393.72] Is -[4393.72 --> 4394.10] Doing -[4394.10 --> 4395.20] He -[4395.20 --> 4395.40] Is -[4395.40 --> 4395.54] A -[4395.54 --> 4395.82] Good -[4395.82 --> 4396.82] Teacher -[4396.82 --> 4397.04] He -[4397.04 --> 4397.16] Is -[4397.16 --> 4397.92] Anticipating -[4397.92 --> 4398.60] Questions -[4398.60 --> 4398.96] And -[4398.96 --> 4399.52] Especially -[4399.52 --> 4399.98] For -[4399.98 --> 4400.58] Paul -[4400.58 --> 4402.34] The -[4402.34 --> 4402.80] Kinds -[4402.80 --> 4402.92] Of -[4402.92 --> 4403.34] Questions -[4403.34 --> 4403.64] That -[4403.64 --> 4403.74] Are -[4403.74 --> 4404.48] Asked -[4404.48 --> 4405.02] That -[4405.02 --> 4405.14] Are -[4405.14 --> 4405.60] Intended -[4405.60 --> 4405.84] To -[4405.84 --> 4406.10] Either -[4406.10 --> 4406.70] Trap -[4406.70 --> 4407.70] Or -[4407.70 --> 4407.92] To -[4407.92 --> 4408.66] Minimize -[4408.66 --> 4408.88] What -[4408.88 --> 4408.98] The -[4408.98 --> 4409.22] Teacher -[4409.22 --> 4409.42] Is -[4409.42 --> 4409.68] Saying -[4409.68 --> 4411.12] Now -[4411.12 --> 4411.18] If -[4411.42 --> 4412.58] You -[4412.58 --> 4412.82] Know -[4412.82 --> 4413.06] I -[4413.06 --> 4413.38] Wasn't -[4413.38 --> 4413.54] The -[4413.54 --> 4413.92] Best -[4413.92 --> 4414.38] Kid -[4414.38 --> 4414.60] In -[4414.60 --> 4414.90] High -[4414.90 --> 4415.24] School -[4415.24 --> 4415.80] And -[4415.80 --> 4415.94] In -[4415.94 --> 4416.10] Fact -[4416.10 --> 4416.84] Part -[4416.84 --> 4416.98] Of -[4416.98 --> 4417.16] How -[4417.16 --> 4417.36] That -[4417.36 --> 4417.98] Manifested -[4417.98 --> 4418.18] For -[4418.18 --> 4418.44] Me -[4418.44 --> 4418.82] Is -[4418.82 --> 4418.92] That -[4418.92 --> 4419.10] I -[4419.10 --> 4419.32] Thought -[4419.32 --> 4419.54] My -[4419.54 --> 4420.04] Job -[4420.04 --> 4420.26] Was -[4420.26 --> 4420.44] To -[4420.44 --> 4420.88] Prove -[4420.88 --> 4421.06] That -[4421.06 --> 4421.22] My -[4421.22 --> 4421.52] Teachers -[4421.52 --> 4421.82] Didn't -[4421.82 --> 4422.00] Know -[4422.00 --> 4422.14] What -[4422.14 --> 4422.24] They -[4422.24 --> 4422.36] Were -[4422.36 --> 4422.64] Actually -[4422.64 --> 4423.02] Saying -[4423.02 --> 4423.04] Saying -[4423.04 --> 4424.20] And -[4424.20 --> 4424.30] So -[4424.30 --> 4424.46] I -[4424.46 --> 4424.62] Would -[4424.62 --> 4424.82] Try -[4424.82 --> 4424.90] To -[4424.90 --> 4425.18] Ask -[4425.18 --> 4425.34] The -[4425.34 --> 4425.58] Kinds -[4425.58 --> 4425.68] Of -[4425.68 --> 4426.00] Questions -[4426.00 --> 4426.16] That -[4426.16 --> 4426.26] Would -[4426.26 --> 4426.38] Get -[4426.38 --> 4426.52] Them -[4426.52 --> 4426.94] Trapped -[4426.94 --> 4427.06] Or -[4427.06 --> 4427.22] Get -[4427.22 --> 4427.36] Them -[4427.36 --> 4427.70] Stuck -[4427.70 --> 4427.84] Or -[4427.84 --> 4427.96] Get -[4427.96 --> 4428.10] Them -[4428.10 --> 4428.70] Backed -[4428.70 --> 4428.86] Into -[4428.86 --> 4429.04] A -[4429.04 --> 4429.30] Corner -[4429.30 --> 4429.80] Now -[4429.80 --> 4430.02] It -[4430.02 --> 4430.22] Never -[4430.22 --> 4430.78] Worked -[4430.78 --> 4431.66] But -[4431.66 --> 4431.74] I -[4431.74 --> 4431.90] Was -[4431.90 --> 4432.18] Also -[4432.18 --> 4432.66] Arrogant -[4432.66 --> 4432.90] Enough -[4432.90 --> 4433.04] To -[4433.04 --> 4433.22] Think -[4433.22 --> 4433.36] That -[4433.36 --> 4433.46] I -[4433.46 --> 4433.56] Could -[4433.56 --> 4433.74] Keep -[4433.74 --> 4434.04] Trying -[4434.04 --> 4434.24] And -[4434.24 --> 4434.46] Figure -[4434.46 --> 4434.62] It -[4434.62 --> 4434.82] Out -[4434.82 --> 4436.14] But -[4436.14 --> 4436.42] Again -[4436.42 --> 4436.80] Good -[4436.80 --> 4437.30] Teachers -[4437.30 --> 4438.60] See -[4438.60 --> 4438.90] Us -[4438.90 --> 4439.16] Through -[4439.16 --> 4439.52] That -[4439.52 --> 4441.80] Right -[4441.80 --> 4442.00] And -[4442.00 --> 4443.28] Sometimes -[4443.28 --> 4444.02] That -[4444.02 --> 4444.96] Those -[4444.96 --> 4445.30] Sorts -[4445.30 --> 4445.46] Of -[4445.46 --> 4445.92] Questions -[4445.92 --> 4446.40] Are -[4446.40 --> 4447.76] Designed -[4447.76 --> 4447.96] To -[4447.96 --> 4448.40] Trip -[4448.40 --> 4448.72] Up -[4448.72 --> 4448.94] The -[4448.94 --> 4449.30] Teacher -[4449.30 --> 4450.34] Sometimes -[4450.34 --> 4450.74] People -[4450.74 --> 4450.94] Will -[4450.94 --> 4451.18] Try -[4451.18 --> 4451.44] To -[4451.44 --> 4452.38] Use -[4452.38 --> 4453.40] The -[4453.40 --> 4454.02] Exception -[4454.02 --> 4454.36] To -[4454.36 --> 4454.54] The -[4454.54 --> 4454.88] Rule -[4454.88 --> 4455.68] As -[4455.68 --> 4455.82] A -[4455.82 --> 4456.10] Reason -[4456.10 --> 4456.32] To -[4456.32 --> 4456.76] Dismiss -[4456.76 --> 4457.00] The -[4457.00 --> 4457.22] Rule -[4457.22 --> 4458.68] Sometimes -[4458.68 --> 4459.06] People -[4459.06 --> 4459.26] Will -[4459.26 --> 4459.38] Try -[4459.38 --> 4459.54] To -[4459.54 --> 4460.22] Reduce -[4460.22 --> 4460.54] An -[4460.54 --> 4460.94] Idea -[4460.94 --> 4461.18] Or -[4461.18 --> 4461.34] An -[4461.34 --> 4461.72] Argument -[4461.72 --> 4462.04] To -[4462.04 --> 4462.30] An -[4462.30 --> 4462.80] Absurd -[4462.80 --> 4463.54] Articulation -[4463.54 --> 4463.74] Of -[4463.74 --> 4463.84] It -[4463.84 --> 4463.98] And -[4463.98 --> 4464.28] Therefore -[4464.28 --> 4464.98] Dismiss -[4464.98 --> 4465.16] The -[4465.16 --> 4465.28] Whole -[4465.28 --> 4465.62] Point -[4465.62 --> 4466.78] Now -[4466.78 --> 4467.08] This -[4467.08 --> 4467.42] Kind -[4467.42 --> 4467.56] Of -[4467.56 --> 4467.94] Thing -[4467.94 --> 4469.78] Happens -[4469.78 --> 4470.08] All -[4470.08 --> 4470.24] The -[4470.24 --> 4470.68] Time -[4470.68 --> 4471.12] In -[4471.12 --> 4471.24] Our -[4471.24 --> 4471.42] World -[4471.42 --> 4471.72] Today -[4471.72 --> 4472.32] Especially -[4472.32 --> 4472.76] On -[4472.76 --> 4473.06] Social -[4473.06 --> 4473.34] Media -[4473.34 --> 4473.66] And -[4473.66 --> 4473.88] Other -[4473.88 --> 4474.34] Online -[4474.34 --> 4475.22] Platforms -[4475.22 --> 4475.40] And -[4475.40 --> 4475.82] Spaces -[4475.82 --> 4476.76] We -[4476.76 --> 4476.94] Come -[4476.94 --> 4477.32] Across -[4477.32 --> 4477.56] Them -[4477.56 --> 4477.70] In -[4477.70 --> 4477.80] The -[4477.80 --> 4477.94] World -[4477.94 --> 4478.32] Today -[4478.32 --> 4478.78] In -[4478.78 --> 4479.02] Different -[4479.02 --> 4479.36] Forms -[4479.36 --> 4479.48] Of -[4479.48 --> 4480.08] Straw -[4480.08 --> 4480.36] Man -[4480.36 --> 4480.92] Arguments -[4480.92 --> 4481.70] Sometimes -[4481.70 --> 4482.04] They're -[4482.04 --> 4482.28] Called -[4482.28 --> 4482.94] Reductio -[4482.94 --> 4483.20] Ad -[4483.20 --> 4483.84] Absurdum -[4483.84 --> 4484.28] They're -[4484.28 --> 4484.58] False -[4484.58 --> 4485.38] Equivalencies -[4485.38 --> 4486.40] We -[4486.40 --> 4486.54] Hear -[4486.54 --> 4486.68] Them -[4486.68 --> 4486.94] All -[4486.94 --> 4487.08] The -[4487.08 --> 4487.54] Time -[4487.54 --> 4488.22] In -[4488.22 --> 4488.66] Areas -[4488.66 --> 4489.10] Of -[4489.10 --> 4490.42] Sexual -[4490.42 --> 4491.36] Identity -[4491.36 --> 4491.60] Or -[4491.60 --> 4491.76] In -[4491.76 --> 4492.42] Conversations -[4492.42 --> 4492.66] About -[4492.66 --> 4493.06] Sexual -[4493.06 --> 4493.80] Orientation -[4493.80 --> 4493.96] You -[4493.96 --> 4494.08] Hear -[4494.08 --> 4494.20] Them -[4494.20 --> 4494.42] All -[4494.42 --> 4494.56] The -[4494.56 --> 4494.90] Time -[4494.90 --> 4495.08] In -[4495.08 --> 4495.46] Areas -[4495.46 --> 4495.68] Of -[4495.68 --> 4497.20] Personal -[4497.20 --> 4497.86] Autonomy -[4497.86 --> 4498.22] Or -[4498.22 --> 4499.08] Expressive -[4499.08 --> 4499.88] Individualism -[4499.88 --> 4500.04] You -[4500.04 --> 4500.20] Hear -[4500.20 --> 4500.34] Them -[4500.34 --> 4500.50] All -[4500.50 --> 4500.64] The -[4500.64 --> 4500.98] Time -[4500.98 --> 4501.18] In -[4501.18 --> 4501.54] Areas -[4501.54 --> 4501.72] Of -[4501.72 --> 4502.52] Politics -[4502.52 --> 4503.52] Generally -[4503.52 --> 4504.14] But -[4504.14 --> 4504.62] Even -[4504.62 --> 4505.38] More -[4505.38 --> 4506.42] Libertarian -[4506.42 --> 4506.72] And -[4506.72 --> 4507.22] Conservative -[4507.22 --> 4507.90] Government -[4507.90 --> 4510.10] Philosophies -[4510.10 --> 4510.84] Specifically -[4510.84 --> 4513.16] You -[4513.16 --> 4513.36] Could -[4513.36 --> 4513.94] Fill -[4513.94 --> 4514.36] In -[4514.36 --> 4514.94] Wherever -[4514.94 --> 4515.26] It -[4515.26 --> 4515.48] Is -[4515.48 --> 4515.64] That -[4515.64 --> 4515.76] You -[4515.76 --> 4516.06] Heard -[4516.06 --> 4516.44] This -[4516.44 --> 4517.04] Type -[4517.04 --> 4517.28] Of -[4517.28 --> 4518.04] Questioning -[4518.04 --> 4518.92] In -[4518.92 --> 4519.08] Fact -[4519.08 --> 4519.90] In -[4519.90 --> 4520.02] The -[4520.02 --> 4520.18] Last -[4520.18 --> 4520.40] Few -[4520.40 --> 4520.72] Years -[4520.72 --> 4521.06] We've -[4521.06 --> 4521.58] Come -[4521.58 --> 4521.70] Up -[4521.70 --> 4521.80] With -[4521.80 --> 4521.94] A -[4521.94 --> 4522.24] Word -[4522.24 --> 4522.62] To -[4522.62 --> 4522.86] Help -[4522.86 --> 4523.04] Us -[4523.04 --> 4523.54] Define -[4523.54 --> 4523.92] This -[4523.92 --> 4525.10] And -[4525.10 --> 4525.22] That -[4525.22 --> 4525.58] Word -[4525.58 --> 4525.76] And -[4525.76 --> 4525.94] That's -[4525.94 --> 4526.06] The -[4526.06 --> 4526.32] Title -[4526.32 --> 4526.52] Of -[4526.52 --> 4526.78] This -[4526.78 --> 4527.42] Sermon -[4527.42 --> 4528.00] Is -[4528.00 --> 4528.50] What -[4528.50 --> 4528.80] About -[4528.80 --> 4529.20] Ism -[4529.20 --> 4530.72] What -[4530.72 --> 4531.06] About -[4531.06 --> 4531.46] Ism -[4531.46 --> 4532.64] What -[4532.64 --> 4532.98] About -[4532.98 --> 4533.34] Ism -[4533.34 --> 4533.36] Ism -[4533.36 --> 4533.56] Is -[4533.56 --> 4533.68] A -[4533.68 --> 4534.20] Rhetorical -[4534.20 --> 4534.72] Device -[4534.72 --> 4535.26] That -[4535.26 --> 4535.84] Involves -[4535.84 --> 4537.00] Accusing -[4537.00 --> 4538.00] Others -[4538.00 --> 4538.72] Of -[4538.72 --> 4539.48] Offenses -[4539.48 --> 4540.12] As -[4540.12 --> 4540.26] A -[4540.26 --> 4540.46] Way -[4540.46 --> 4540.66] Of -[4540.66 --> 4541.66] Deflecting -[4541.66 --> 4542.56] From -[4542.56 --> 4543.62] My -[4543.62 --> 4544.04] Own -[4544.04 --> 4544.84] Deeds -[4544.84 --> 4545.12] Or -[4545.12 --> 4545.70] Ideas -[4545.70 --> 4546.00] Or -[4546.00 --> 4546.76] Arguments -[4546.76 --> 4548.26] It's -[4548.26 --> 4548.38] A -[4548.38 --> 4548.58] Way -[4548.58 --> 4548.80] Of -[4548.80 --> 4549.28] Actually -[4549.28 --> 4550.22] Avoiding -[4550.22 --> 4550.94] Meaningful -[4550.94 --> 4551.40] Engagement -[4551.40 --> 4551.72] On -[4551.72 --> 4551.88] An -[4551.88 --> 4552.28] Issue -[4552.28 --> 4552.74] And -[4552.74 --> 4552.88] Then -[4552.88 --> 4553.86] Dismissing -[4553.86 --> 4554.46] The -[4554.46 --> 4555.54] Position -[4555.54 --> 4555.90] Of -[4555.90 --> 4556.02] Your -[4556.02 --> 4556.62] Conversation -[4556.62 --> 4557.00] Partner -[4557.00 --> 4557.52] Or -[4557.52 --> 4557.74] Your -[4557.74 --> 4558.18] Argument -[4558.18 --> 4558.62] Opponent -[4558.62 --> 4561.78] Again -[4561.78 --> 4562.30] Candidly -[4562.30 --> 4562.52] In -[4562.52 --> 4562.68] My -[4562.68 --> 4563.08] Opinion -[4563.08 --> 4564.46] What -[4564.46 --> 4564.78] About -[4564.78 --> 4565.16] Ism -[4565.16 --> 4565.66] Is -[4565.66 --> 4565.82] One -[4565.82 --> 4565.92] Of -[4565.92 --> 4566.04] The -[4566.04 --> 4566.66] Symptoms -[4566.66 --> 4566.98] Of -[4566.98 --> 4567.24] Our -[4567.24 --> 4567.74] Culture -[4567.74 --> 4568.76] Or -[4568.76 --> 4569.06] How -[4569.06 --> 4569.30] Our -[4569.30 --> 4569.62] Culture -[4569.62 --> 4569.92] Has -[4569.92 --> 4570.80] Forgotten -[4570.80 --> 4570.96] To -[4570.96 --> 4571.34] Have -[4571.34 --> 4571.70] Or -[4571.70 --> 4571.90] How -[4571.90 --> 4572.08] To -[4572.08 --> 4572.30] Have -[4572.30 --> 4573.08] Meaningful -[4573.08 --> 4574.02] Disagreement -[4574.02 --> 4574.78] And -[4574.78 --> 4574.98] Yet -[4574.98 --> 4575.34] Still -[4575.34 --> 4575.86] Remain -[4575.86 --> 4576.54] United -[4576.54 --> 4577.56] Together -[4577.56 --> 4579.50] In -[4579.50 --> 4579.76] This -[4579.76 --> 4580.24] Text -[4580.24 --> 4580.64] Paul -[4580.64 --> 4581.12] Addresses -[4581.12 --> 4581.46] The -[4581.46 --> 4581.64] What -[4581.64 --> 4581.92] About -[4581.92 --> 4582.30] Ism -[4582.30 --> 4583.58] Of -[4583.58 --> 4583.88] His -[4583.88 --> 4584.68] Hearers -[4584.68 --> 4585.82] At -[4585.82 --> 4585.94] The -[4585.94 --> 4586.10] What -[4586.10 --> 4586.38] About -[4586.38 --> 4586.76] Types -[4586.76 --> 4586.92] Of -[4586.92 --> 4587.38] Questions -[4587.38 --> 4587.68] In -[4587.68 --> 4587.92] Order -[4587.92 --> 4588.38] To -[4588.38 --> 4589.28] Advance -[4589.28 --> 4589.58] The -[4589.58 --> 4590.04] Argument -[4590.04 --> 4590.24] That -[4590.24 --> 4590.36] He -[4590.36 --> 4590.54] Has -[4590.54 --> 4590.66] Been -[4590.66 --> 4591.02] Making -[4591.02 --> 4591.64] In -[4591.64 --> 4592.40] Anticipation -[4592.40 --> 4592.52] Of -[4592.52 --> 4592.62] The -[4592.62 --> 4593.16] Counter -[4593.16 --> 4593.64] Points -[4593.64 --> 4594.10] That -[4594.10 --> 4594.22] Will -[4594.22 --> 4594.36] Be -[4594.36 --> 4594.68] Used -[4594.68 --> 4594.88] To -[4594.88 --> 4595.46] Dismiss -[4595.46 --> 4596.02] Everything -[4596.02 --> 4596.22] He -[4596.22 --> 4596.52] Said -[4596.52 --> 4597.50] Because -[4597.50 --> 4597.66] The -[4597.66 --> 4598.00] Kinds -[4598.00 --> 4598.10] Of -[4598.10 --> 4598.34] Things -[4598.34 --> 4598.54] He -[4598.54 --> 4598.64] Is -[4598.64 --> 4598.90] Talking -[4598.90 --> 4599.16] About -[4599.16 --> 4599.40] Here -[4599.40 --> 4600.00] Most -[4600.00 --> 4600.14] Of -[4600.14 --> 4600.30] Us -[4600.30 --> 4600.62] Don't -[4600.62 --> 4600.94] Like -[4600.94 --> 4601.14] To -[4601.14 --> 4601.36] Hear -[4601.36 --> 4604.06] So -[4604.06 --> 4604.94] For -[4604.94 --> 4605.28] Example -[4605.28 --> 4605.50] If -[4605.50 --> 4605.64] You've -[4605.64 --> 4605.76] Been -[4605.76 --> 4606.44] Following -[4606.44 --> 4606.80] Along -[4606.80 --> 4607.02] With -[4607.02 --> 4607.24] Us -[4607.24 --> 4607.36] You -[4607.36 --> 4607.62] Remember -[4607.62 --> 4607.84] That -[4607.84 --> 4608.30] In -[4608.30 --> 4608.44] The -[4608.44 --> 4608.78] Last -[4608.78 --> 4609.38] Section -[4609.38 --> 4609.88] Paul -[4609.88 --> 4610.10] Has -[4610.10 --> 4610.36] Spent -[4610.36 --> 4610.52] A -[4610.52 --> 4610.72] Whole -[4610.72 --> 4611.10] Chunk -[4611.10 --> 4611.28] Of -[4611.28 --> 4611.58] Time -[4611.58 --> 4611.96] Talking -[4611.96 --> 4612.34] About -[4612.34 --> 4612.80] How -[4612.80 --> 4613.24] Even -[4613.24 --> 4613.78] Jewish -[4613.78 --> 4614.38] People -[4614.38 --> 4615.38] Fall -[4615.38 --> 4615.74] Under -[4615.74 --> 4615.98] The -[4615.98 --> 4616.52] Category -[4616.52 --> 4616.82] Of -[4616.82 --> 4617.18] Wrath -[4617.18 --> 4617.42] And -[4617.42 --> 4617.88] Judgment -[4617.88 --> 4618.36] Because -[4618.36 --> 4618.68] Of -[4618.68 --> 4619.36] Sin -[4619.36 --> 4619.54] How -[4619.54 --> 4619.78] There's -[4619.78 --> 4619.96] This -[4619.96 --> 4620.50] Dead -[4620.50 --> 4621.48] Orthodoxy -[4621.48 --> 4621.68] That -[4621.68 --> 4622.00] That -[4622.00 --> 4622.88] Permeates -[4622.88 --> 4623.80] And -[4623.80 --> 4624.16] So -[4624.16 --> 4624.62] You're -[4624.62 --> 4624.82] Not -[4624.82 --> 4625.54] Excluded -[4625.54 --> 4625.82] From -[4625.82 --> 4626.04] This -[4626.04 --> 4626.50] Spiritual -[4626.50 --> 4627.54] Reality -[4627.54 --> 4628.46] So -[4628.46 --> 4628.70] Paul -[4628.70 --> 4629.34] Anticipates -[4629.34 --> 4629.52] Their -[4629.52 --> 4629.96] Question -[4629.96 --> 4630.46] And -[4630.46 --> 4630.54] He -[4630.54 --> 4630.68] Says -[4630.68 --> 4630.92] Okay -[4630.92 --> 4631.12] Well -[4631.12 --> 4631.24] Then -[4631.24 --> 4631.44] What's -[4631.44 --> 4631.54] The -[4631.54 --> 4631.78] Point -[4631.78 --> 4633.62] Why -[4633.62 --> 4634.02] Follow -[4634.02 --> 4634.24] All -[4634.24 --> 4634.44] These -[4634.44 --> 4634.72] Rules -[4634.72 --> 4635.00] Why -[4635.00 --> 4635.32] Have -[4635.32 --> 4635.52] The -[4635.52 --> 4635.74] Law -[4635.74 --> 4635.94] If -[4635.94 --> 4636.04] It -[4636.04 --> 4636.26] Doesn't -[4636.26 --> 4636.56] Actually -[4636.56 --> 4636.84] Make -[4636.84 --> 4637.46] Any -[4637.46 --> 4638.02] Difference -[4638.02 --> 4639.36] And -[4639.36 --> 4639.48] In -[4639.48 --> 4639.66] Answer -[4639.66 --> 4639.82] To -[4639.82 --> 4639.96] That -[4639.96 --> 4640.24] First -[4640.24 --> 4640.66] Question -[4640.66 --> 4640.86] He -[4640.86 --> 4641.14] Says -[4641.14 --> 4641.34] The -[4641.34 --> 4641.82] Advantage -[4641.82 --> 4642.18] Is -[4642.18 --> 4642.38] That -[4642.38 --> 4642.60] You -[4642.60 --> 4642.86] Have -[4642.86 --> 4643.06] The -[4643.06 --> 4643.30] Word -[4643.30 --> 4643.44] Of -[4643.44 --> 4643.82] God -[4643.82 --> 4645.14] And -[4645.14 --> 4645.24] When -[4645.24 --> 4645.36] It -[4645.36 --> 4645.60] Comes -[4645.60 --> 4645.76] To -[4645.76 --> 4645.88] The -[4645.88 --> 4646.36] Matters -[4646.36 --> 4647.64] Of -[4647.64 --> 4647.78] The -[4647.78 --> 4648.30] Divine -[4648.30 --> 4648.72] When -[4648.72 --> 4648.84] It -[4648.84 --> 4649.04] Comes -[4649.04 --> 4649.16] To -[4649.16 --> 4649.72] Understanding -[4649.72 --> 4650.04] Who -[4650.04 --> 4650.34] God -[4650.34 --> 4650.70] Is -[4650.70 --> 4650.84] When -[4650.84 --> 4650.96] It -[4650.96 --> 4651.16] Comes -[4651.16 --> 4651.30] To -[4651.30 --> 4651.74] Understanding -[4651.74 --> 4652.06] Who -[4652.06 --> 4652.36] You -[4652.36 --> 4652.74] Are -[4652.74 --> 4653.16] And -[4653.16 --> 4653.42] The -[4653.42 --> 4653.94] Purpose -[4653.94 --> 4654.40] Of -[4654.40 --> 4654.54] Your -[4654.54 --> 4654.90] Life -[4654.90 --> 4655.04] And -[4655.04 --> 4655.18] What -[4655.18 --> 4655.32] The -[4655.32 --> 4655.74] Purpose -[4655.74 --> 4655.92] Of -[4655.92 --> 4656.06] Your -[4656.06 --> 4656.40] Life -[4656.40 --> 4656.64] Is -[4664.24 --> 4664.40] And -[4664.40 --> 4664.52] That -[4664.52 --> 4664.82] Cannot -[4664.82 --> 4664.96] Be -[4664.96 --> 4666.16] Dismissed -[4666.16 --> 4666.48] If -[4666.48 --> 4666.82] You -[4666.82 --> 4667.02] Want -[4667.02 --> 4667.08] To -[4667.08 --> 4667.18] Know -[4667.18 --> 4667.32] The -[4667.32 --> 4667.72] Truth -[4667.72 --> 4668.06] About -[4668.06 --> 4668.60] Something -[4668.60 --> 4669.10] Why -[4669.10 --> 4669.36] Not -[4669.36 --> 4669.68] Go -[4669.68 --> 4670.00] To -[4670.00 --> 4670.16] The -[4670.16 --> 4670.38] One -[4670.38 --> 4670.58] Who -[4670.58 --> 4670.94] Is -[4670.94 --> 4671.20] The -[4671.20 --> 4671.70] Truth -[4671.70 --> 4672.14] And -[4672.14 --> 4672.34] Has -[4672.34 --> 4672.94] Authored -[4672.94 --> 4673.64] Life -[4673.64 --> 4675.28] We -[4675.28 --> 4675.78] Know -[4675.78 --> 4676.32] That -[4676.32 --> 4676.46] There -[4676.46 --> 4676.58] Is -[4676.58 --> 4676.84] A -[4676.84 --> 4677.46] Power -[4677.46 --> 4678.22] To -[4678.22 --> 4678.38] The -[4678.38 --> 4678.68] Word -[4678.68 --> 4678.88] Of -[4678.88 --> 4679.18] God -[4679.18 --> 4679.38] That -[4679.38 --> 4679.82] Spoken -[4679.82 --> 4680.24] And -[4680.24 --> 4680.72] Declared -[4680.72 --> 4680.96] In -[4680.96 --> 4681.10] The -[4681.10 --> 4681.50] Lives -[4681.50 --> 4681.70] Of -[4681.70 --> 4682.00] Those -[4682.00 --> 4682.40] Who -[4682.40 --> 4682.78] Believe -[4682.78 --> 4683.00] We -[4683.00 --> 4683.26] Know -[4683.26 --> 4683.48] This -[4683.48 --> 4683.70] Because -[4683.70 --> 4683.86] The -[4683.86 --> 4684.06] Holy -[4684.06 --> 4684.50] Spirit -[4684.50 --> 4684.94] Has -[4684.94 --> 4685.32] Promised -[4685.32 --> 4685.54] To -[4685.54 --> 4685.84] Take -[4685.84 --> 4686.14] Those -[4686.14 --> 4686.46] Words -[4686.46 --> 4686.64] And -[4686.64 --> 4686.76] To -[4686.76 --> 4687.10] Plant -[4687.10 --> 4687.28] Them -[4687.28 --> 4687.76] Deep -[4687.76 --> 4688.42] Into -[4688.42 --> 4689.02] Our -[4689.02 --> 4689.48] Hearts -[4689.48 --> 4689.68] And -[4689.68 --> 4689.86] Into -[4689.86 --> 4690.04] Our -[4690.04 --> 4690.78] Imaginations -[4690.78 --> 4691.00] And -[4691.00 --> 4691.12] To -[4691.12 --> 4691.56] Use -[4691.56 --> 4691.88] Them -[4691.88 --> 4692.30] To -[4692.30 --> 4692.92] Transform -[4692.92 --> 4693.46] Us -[4693.46 --> 4693.78] Into -[4693.78 --> 4694.02] The -[4694.02 --> 4694.38] Image -[4694.38 --> 4694.88] Of -[4694.88 --> 4695.20] Jesus -[4695.20 --> 4695.76] Christ -[4695.76 --> 4696.52] We -[4696.52 --> 4696.98] Know -[4696.98 --> 4697.28] Because -[4697.28 --> 4697.42] We -[4697.42 --> 4697.54] Have -[4697.54 --> 4697.84] Read -[4697.84 --> 4698.00] And -[4698.00 --> 4698.62] Experienced -[4698.62 --> 4698.74] That -[4698.74 --> 4698.86] The -[4698.86 --> 4699.10] Word -[4699.10 --> 4699.24] Of -[4699.24 --> 4699.48] God -[4699.48 --> 4699.64] Is -[4699.64 --> 4700.12] Alive -[4700.12 --> 4700.32] And -[4700.32 --> 4700.66] Active -[4700.66 --> 4700.94] And -[4700.94 --> 4701.38] As -[4701.38 --> 4701.56] God -[4701.56 --> 4701.82] Says -[4701.82 --> 4701.96] In -[4701.96 --> 4702.22] Isaiah -[4702.22 --> 4702.66] 55 -[4702.66 --> 4702.94] It -[4702.94 --> 4703.18] Does -[4703.18 --> 4703.44] Not -[4703.44 --> 4703.94] Go -[4703.94 --> 4704.26] Out -[4704.26 --> 4704.46] And -[4704.46 --> 4704.78] Return -[4704.78 --> 4704.94] To -[4704.94 --> 4705.14] Him -[4705.14 --> 4705.46] Without -[4705.46 --> 4706.24] Accomplishing -[4706.24 --> 4706.44] The -[4706.44 --> 4706.92] Purposes -[4706.92 --> 4707.46] For -[4707.46 --> 4707.70] Which -[4707.70 --> 4707.90] He -[4707.90 --> 4708.54] Sent -[4708.54 --> 4708.80] It -[4708.80 --> 4711.56] Further -[4711.56 --> 4712.96] As -[4712.96 --> 4713.56] God's -[4713.56 --> 4714.56] Revelation -[4714.56 --> 4715.02] Of -[4715.02 --> 4715.44] Himself -[4715.44 --> 4715.86] To -[4715.86 --> 4716.08] His -[4716.08 --> 4716.50] People -[4716.50 --> 4717.08] And -[4717.08 --> 4717.20] To -[4717.20 --> 4717.36] The -[4717.36 --> 4717.70] World -[4717.70 --> 4718.96] The -[4718.96 --> 4719.24] Word -[4719.24 --> 4719.42] Of -[4719.42 --> 4719.72] God -[4719.72 --> 4720.20] Also -[4720.20 --> 4720.80] Reveals -[4720.80 --> 4721.02] The -[4721.02 --> 4721.68] Pattern -[4721.68 --> 4721.92] Of -[4721.92 --> 4722.32] God -[4722.32 --> 4722.82] For -[4722.82 --> 4723.38] Life -[4723.38 --> 4724.16] In -[4724.16 --> 4724.34] The -[4724.34 --> 4724.62] World -[4724.62 --> 4725.84] And -[4725.84 --> 4725.98] So -[4725.98 --> 4726.34] Here -[4726.34 --> 4726.58] We -[4726.58 --> 4726.76] Get -[4726.76 --> 4726.94] A -[4726.94 --> 4727.28] Sense -[4727.28 --> 4727.48] Of -[4727.48 --> 4727.78] How -[4727.78 --> 4728.02] We -[4728.02 --> 4728.18] Are -[4728.18 --> 4728.74] Supposed -[4728.74 --> 4729.00] To -[4729.00 --> 4729.88] Live -[4729.88 --> 4731.54] You -[4731.54 --> 4731.68] Get -[4731.68 --> 4731.84] A -[4731.84 --> 4732.14] Sense -[4732.14 --> 4732.32] Of -[4732.32 --> 4732.52] How -[4732.52 --> 4732.74] We -[4732.74 --> 4732.88] Are -[4732.88 --> 4733.76] Supposed -[4733.76 --> 4733.90] To -[4733.90 --> 4734.06] Be -[4734.06 --> 4734.70] Faithful -[4734.70 --> 4734.86] And -[4734.86 --> 4734.96] What -[4734.96 --> 4735.08] Our -[4735.08 --> 4735.78] Faithfulness -[4735.78 --> 4736.58] Looks -[4736.58 --> 4736.98] Like -[4736.98 --> 4737.18] In -[4737.18 --> 4737.34] The -[4737.34 --> 4737.94] Context -[4737.94 --> 4738.20] Of -[4738.20 --> 4738.68] God's -[4738.68 --> 4739.38] Perfect -[4739.38 --> 4740.66] Faithfulness -[4740.66 --> 4742.58] Which -[4742.58 --> 4742.84] If -[4742.84 --> 4742.98] You're -[4742.98 --> 4743.24] Following -[4743.24 --> 4743.50] Along -[4743.50 --> 4743.60] In -[4743.60 --> 4743.68] The -[4743.68 --> 4743.94] Text -[4743.94 --> 4744.16] Is -[4744.16 --> 4744.56] Exactly -[4744.56 --> 4745.14] The -[4745.14 --> 4745.36] Next -[4745.36 --> 4745.84] Question -[4745.84 --> 4746.10] That -[4746.10 --> 4746.30] Paul -[4746.30 --> 4746.98] Anticipates -[4746.98 --> 4747.16] In -[4747.16 --> 4747.84] Verse -[4747.84 --> 4748.16] Three -[4748.16 --> 4748.68] The -[4748.68 --> 4749.30] Rejoinder -[4749.30 --> 4749.70] Is -[4749.70 --> 4750.06] Okay -[4750.06 --> 4750.48] Sure -[4750.48 --> 4750.88] Paul -[4750.88 --> 4751.28] You've -[4751.28 --> 4751.44] Been -[4751.44 --> 4751.78] Saying -[4751.78 --> 4752.16] That -[4752.16 --> 4753.48] But -[4753.48 --> 4753.74] What -[4753.74 --> 4753.96] If -[4753.96 --> 4754.22] Some -[4754.22 --> 4754.36] Are -[4754.36 --> 4755.08] Unfaithful -[4755.08 --> 4756.60] Will -[4756.60 --> 4756.88] Their -[4756.88 --> 4757.64] Unfaithfulness -[4757.64 --> 4758.48] Nullify -[4758.48 --> 4759.36] God's -[4759.36 --> 4760.12] Faithfulness -[4760.12 --> 4761.88] Of -[4761.88 --> 4762.12] Course -[4762.12 --> 4762.48] Not -[4762.48 --> 4763.08] Says -[4763.08 --> 4763.40] Paul -[4763.40 --> 4764.54] Right -[4764.54 --> 4766.36] Another -[4766.36 --> 4766.48] Way -[4766.48 --> 4766.58] To -[4766.58 --> 4766.68] Put -[4766.68 --> 4766.84] This -[4766.84 --> 4767.08] Idea -[4767.08 --> 4767.18] Is -[4767.18 --> 4767.30] That -[4767.30 --> 4767.70] We -[4767.70 --> 4767.90] Are -[4767.90 --> 4768.40] Created -[4768.40 --> 4768.56] In -[4768.56 --> 4769.02] God's -[4769.02 --> 4769.48] Image -[4769.48 --> 4769.96] Not -[4769.96 --> 4770.40] God -[4770.40 --> 4770.62] In -[4770.62 --> 4770.92] Our -[4770.92 --> 4771.36] Image -[4771.36 --> 4772.54] And -[4772.54 --> 4772.94] So -[4772.94 --> 4773.52] Because -[4773.52 --> 4774.02] We -[4774.02 --> 4774.30] Might -[4774.30 --> 4774.54] Be -[4774.54 --> 4775.32] Unfaithful -[4775.32 --> 4775.76] It -[4775.76 --> 4775.94] Does -[4775.94 --> 4776.14] Not -[4776.14 --> 4776.54] Follow -[4776.54 --> 4776.82] That -[4776.82 --> 4777.30] God -[4777.30 --> 4777.58] Will -[4777.58 --> 4778.00] Also -[4778.00 --> 4778.36] Be -[4778.36 --> 4779.38] Unfaithful -[4779.38 --> 4779.98] In -[4779.98 --> 4780.22] Fact -[4780.22 --> 4780.70] The -[4780.70 --> 4781.14] Opposite -[4781.14 --> 4781.52] Is -[4781.52 --> 4781.74] True -[4781.74 --> 4783.00] Right -[4783.00 --> 4783.22] God -[4783.22 --> 4783.74] Cannot -[4783.74 --> 4783.96] Be -[4783.96 --> 4784.54] Unfaithful -[4784.54 --> 4784.74] By -[4784.74 --> 4785.02] Virtue -[4785.02 --> 4785.16] Of -[4785.16 --> 4785.28] His -[4785.28 --> 4785.78] Being -[4785.78 --> 4786.28] By -[4786.28 --> 4786.62] Virtue -[4786.62 --> 4786.82] Of -[4786.82 --> 4786.98] His -[4786.98 --> 4787.60] Character -[4787.60 --> 4789.04] Right -[4789.04 --> 4789.22] For -[4789.22 --> 4789.52] God -[4789.52 --> 4789.72] To -[4789.72 --> 4789.90] Be -[4789.90 --> 4790.24] God -[4790.24 --> 4790.48] He -[4790.48 --> 4790.76] Must -[4790.76 --> 4791.20] Always -[4791.20 --> 4791.78] Be -[4791.78 --> 4792.82] Faithful -[4792.82 --> 4793.82] God -[4793.82 --> 4794.22] You -[4794.22 --> 4794.32] You've -[4794.32 --> 4794.34] You've -[4794.34 --> 4794.44] Heard -[4794.44 --> 4794.60] Me -[4794.60 --> 4794.96] Mention -[4794.96 --> 4795.16] This -[4795.16 --> 4795.50] Before -[4795.50 --> 4795.72] But -[4795.72 --> 4796.06] One -[4796.06 --> 4796.14] Of -[4796.14 --> 4796.24] My -[4796.24 --> 4796.84] Favorite -[4796.84 --> 4797.96] Verses -[4797.96 --> 4798.18] In -[4798.18 --> 4798.46] All -[4798.46 --> 4798.62] Of -[4798.62 --> 4798.96] Scripture -[4798.96 --> 4799.56] Is -[4799.56 --> 4799.78] 2 -[4799.78 --> 4800.18] Timothy -[4800.18 --> 4800.62] 2 -[4800.62 --> 4801.32] 13 -[4801.32 --> 4802.42] Where -[4802.42 --> 4802.52] We -[4802.52 --> 4802.66] Read -[4802.66 --> 4802.92] If -[4802.92 --> 4803.42] You -[4803.42 --> 4803.74] Are -[4803.74 --> 4804.02] We -[4804.02 --> 4804.40] Are -[4804.40 --> 4805.36] Faithless -[4805.36 --> 4806.06] He -[4806.06 --> 4806.72] Remains -[4806.72 --> 4807.48] Faithful -[4807.48 --> 4807.96] For -[4807.96 --> 4808.12] He -[4808.12 --> 4808.60] Cannot -[4808.60 --> 4809.16] Disown -[4809.16 --> 4810.00] Himself -[4810.00 --> 4811.80] Right -[4811.80 --> 4812.18] God's -[4812.18 --> 4812.94] Faithfulness -[4812.94 --> 4813.58] Depends -[4813.58 --> 4813.78] On -[4813.78 --> 4814.08] His -[4814.08 --> 4814.38] Own -[4814.38 --> 4814.94] Character -[4814.94 --> 4816.08] And -[4816.08 --> 4816.20] He -[4816.20 --> 4816.58] Cannot -[4816.58 --> 4817.02] Disown -[4817.02 --> 4817.58] Himself -[4817.58 --> 4818.54] Not -[4818.54 --> 4818.80] On -[4818.80 --> 4819.18] Our -[4819.18 --> 4819.98] Faithfulness -[4819.98 --> 4820.62] To -[4820.62 --> 4820.82] Him -[4820.82 --> 4822.16] And -[4822.16 --> 4822.30] So -[4822.30 --> 4822.60] Even -[4822.60 --> 4822.86] In -[4822.86 --> 4823.08] This -[4823.08 --> 4823.42] Bigger -[4823.42 --> 4824.08] Conversation -[4824.08 --> 4824.22] That -[4824.22 --> 4824.42] Paul -[4824.42 --> 4824.58] Is -[4824.58 --> 4824.88] Having -[4824.88 --> 4825.42] About -[4825.42 --> 4826.22] Total -[4826.22 --> 4826.82] Inability -[4826.82 --> 4827.12] And -[4827.12 --> 4827.24] The -[4827.24 --> 4827.52] Wrath -[4827.52 --> 4827.68] Of -[4827.68 --> 4827.92] God -[4827.92 --> 4828.16] For -[4828.16 --> 4828.48] Sin -[4828.48 --> 4828.94] There -[4828.94 --> 4829.14] Is -[4829.14 --> 4829.66] Hope -[4829.66 --> 4831.24] Right -[4831.24 --> 4831.46] There's -[4831.46 --> 4831.80] Hope -[4831.80 --> 4832.16] Because -[4832.16 --> 4832.54] God -[4832.54 --> 4832.74] Is -[4832.74 --> 4833.30] Faithful -[4833.30 --> 4833.68] To -[4833.68 --> 4833.86] His -[4833.86 --> 4834.24] Promise -[4834.24 --> 4834.64] God -[4834.64 --> 4834.86] Is -[4834.86 --> 4835.42] Faithful -[4835.42 --> 4835.86] To -[4835.86 --> 4836.06] His -[4836.06 --> 4836.46] Plan -[4836.46 --> 4837.42] Right -[4837.42 --> 4837.56] His -[4837.56 --> 4837.92] Promise -[4837.92 --> 4838.18] To -[4838.18 --> 4838.52] Save -[4838.52 --> 4838.88] Those -[4838.88 --> 4839.12] Whom -[4839.12 --> 4839.28] He -[4839.28 --> 4839.48] Has -[4839.48 --> 4839.78] Called -[4839.78 --> 4840.06] Out -[4840.06 --> 4840.18] Of -[4840.18 --> 4840.56] Darkness -[4840.56 --> 4841.20] Into -[4841.20 --> 4841.86] His -[4841.86 --> 4842.20] Light -[4842.20 --> 4842.40] His -[4842.40 --> 4842.74] Promise -[4842.74 --> 4842.96] To -[4842.96 --> 4843.28] Save -[4843.28 --> 4843.56] Those -[4843.56 --> 4843.74] Whose -[4843.74 --> 4844.08] Names -[4844.08 --> 4844.28] Are -[4844.28 --> 4844.52] Written -[4844.52 --> 4844.96] In -[4844.96 --> 4845.06] The -[4845.06 --> 4845.26] Book -[4845.26 --> 4845.40] Of -[4845.40 --> 4845.76] Life -[4845.76 --> 4849.78] Now -[4849.78 --> 4849.86] The -[4849.86 --> 4850.06] Next -[4850.06 --> 4850.48] Question -[4850.48 --> 4851.22] That -[4851.22 --> 4851.46] Paul -[4851.46 --> 4852.72] Anticipates -[4852.72 --> 4854.44] I -[4854.44 --> 4855.46] Think -[4855.46 --> 4856.20] Is -[4856.20 --> 4857.16] Brilliant -[4857.16 --> 4858.92] He's -[4858.92 --> 4859.18] Just -[4859.18 --> 4859.62] Finished -[4859.62 --> 4860.06] Saying -[4860.06 --> 4860.36] That -[4860.36 --> 4861.10] Our -[4861.10 --> 4861.92] Unfaithfulness -[4861.92 --> 4862.52] Doesn't -[4862.52 --> 4862.94] Affect -[4862.94 --> 4863.80] God's -[4863.80 --> 4864.48] Faithfulness -[4864.48 --> 4865.16] And -[4865.16 --> 4865.50] So -[4865.50 --> 4866.24] The -[4866.24 --> 4866.56] People -[4866.56 --> 4867.38] Will -[4867.38 --> 4867.76] Wonder -[4867.76 --> 4868.10] They'll -[4868.10 --> 4868.40] Begin -[4868.40 --> 4868.56] To -[4868.56 --> 4868.86] Ask -[4868.86 --> 4869.10] Well -[4869.10 --> 4869.62] If -[4869.62 --> 4869.96] Our -[4869.96 --> 4871.14] Unrighteousness -[4871.14 --> 4871.56] Brings -[4871.56 --> 4871.86] Out -[4871.86 --> 4872.32] God's -[4872.32 --> 4873.24] Righteousness -[4873.24 --> 4873.56] More -[4873.56 --> 4874.14] Clearly -[4874.14 --> 4875.24] Shouldn't -[4875.24 --> 4875.40] We -[4875.40 --> 4875.66] Just -[4875.66 --> 4875.96] Keep -[4875.96 --> 4876.16] On -[4876.16 --> 4876.68] Sinning -[4876.68 --> 4876.90] So -[4876.90 --> 4877.10] That -[4877.10 --> 4878.18] God -[4878.18 --> 4878.58] Is -[4878.58 --> 4879.02] More -[4879.02 --> 4879.86] Glorious -[4879.86 --> 4881.22] Right -[4881.22 --> 4881.46] Shouldn't -[4881.46 --> 4881.60] We -[4881.60 --> 4881.84] Just -[4881.84 --> 4882.40] Keep -[4882.40 --> 4882.66] On -[4882.66 --> 4883.20] Sinning -[4883.20 --> 4883.40] So -[4883.40 --> 4883.58] That -[4883.58 --> 4884.24] God's -[4884.24 --> 4884.96] Righteousness -[4884.96 --> 4885.16] Can -[4885.16 --> 4885.32] Be -[4885.32 --> 4885.58] Even -[4885.58 --> 4886.14] More -[4886.14 --> 4887.12] Magnificent -[4887.12 --> 4887.24] And -[4887.24 --> 4887.38] Even -[4887.38 --> 4887.74] More -[4887.74 --> 4888.30] Revealed -[4888.30 --> 4890.18] Look -[4890.18 --> 4890.32] At -[4890.32 --> 4890.62] Verse -[4890.62 --> 4891.06] Seven -[4891.06 --> 4891.22] If -[4891.22 --> 4891.30] You -[4891.30 --> 4891.44] Have -[4891.44 --> 4891.64] That -[4891.64 --> 4892.08] In -[4892.08 --> 4892.22] Front -[4892.22 --> 4892.34] Of -[4892.34 --> 4892.46] You -[4892.46 --> 4894.08] If -[4894.08 --> 4894.36] My -[4894.36 --> 4895.08] Falsehood -[4895.08 --> 4895.72] Enhances -[4895.72 --> 4896.24] God's -[4896.24 --> 4896.86] Truthfulness -[4896.86 --> 4897.34] And -[4897.34 --> 4897.62] So -[4897.62 --> 4898.28] Increases -[4898.28 --> 4898.56] His -[4898.56 --> 4899.00] Glory -[4899.00 --> 4899.76] Why -[4899.76 --> 4900.00] Am -[4900.00 --> 4900.18] I -[4900.18 --> 4900.54] Still -[4900.54 --> 4901.28] Condemned -[4901.28 --> 4901.90] As -[4901.90 --> 4902.06] A -[4902.06 --> 4902.36] Sinner -[4902.36 --> 4904.60] To -[4904.60 --> 4904.74] Put -[4904.74 --> 4904.84] It -[4904.84 --> 4905.08] Another -[4905.08 --> 4905.30] Way -[4905.30 --> 4906.12] If -[4906.12 --> 4906.36] God -[4906.36 --> 4906.52] Is -[4906.52 --> 4907.18] Glorified -[4907.18 --> 4908.04] In -[4908.04 --> 4908.74] Grace -[4908.74 --> 4909.26] And -[4909.26 --> 4909.56] In -[4909.56 --> 4910.12] Judgment -[4910.12 --> 4911.52] Why -[4911.52 --> 4911.74] Should -[4911.74 --> 4911.86] He -[4911.86 --> 4912.20] Judge -[4912.20 --> 4913.94] Right -[4913.94 --> 4914.06] As -[4914.06 --> 4914.30] Paul -[4914.30 --> 4914.92] Summarizes -[4914.92 --> 4915.22] Let -[4915.22 --> 4915.42] Us -[4915.42 --> 4915.62] Do -[4915.62 --> 4916.10] Evil -[4916.10 --> 4916.76] So -[4916.76 --> 4916.94] That -[4916.94 --> 4917.28] Good -[4917.28 --> 4917.58] May -[4917.58 --> 4918.04] Result -[4918.04 --> 4920.32] Now -[4920.32 --> 4921.20] I -[4921.20 --> 4921.44] Trust -[4921.44 --> 4923.14] I -[4923.14 --> 4923.28] Know -[4923.28 --> 4924.04] I -[4924.04 --> 4924.38] Know -[4924.38 --> 4924.98] The -[4924.98 --> 4926.34] Fallacy -[4926.34 --> 4926.66] There -[4926.66 --> 4927.24] Recognize -[4927.24 --> 4927.42] The -[4927.42 --> 4928.02] Non -[4928.02 --> 4928.62] Sequitur -[4928.62 --> 4928.82] Of -[4928.82 --> 4929.04] Those -[4929.04 --> 4929.26] Two -[4929.26 --> 4929.62] Things -[4929.62 --> 4930.46] When -[4930.46 --> 4930.64] It's -[4930.64 --> 4930.82] Put -[4930.82 --> 4931.02] In -[4931.02 --> 4931.32] This -[4931.32 --> 4931.98] Explicit -[4931.98 --> 4932.36] Form -[4932.36 --> 4933.08] And -[4933.08 --> 4933.18] Yet -[4933.18 --> 4933.20] There -[4933.20 --> 4933.30] There -[4933.30 --> 4933.32] There -[4933.32 --> 4933.36] Is -[4933.36 --> 4933.46] A -[4933.46 --> 4933.76] Form -[4933.76 --> 4933.94] Of -[4933.94 --> 4934.12] This -[4934.12 --> 4934.68] Question -[4934.68 --> 4935.16] That -[4935.16 --> 4935.26] Is -[4935.26 --> 4935.54] More -[4935.54 --> 4936.02] Common -[4936.02 --> 4936.30] In -[4936.30 --> 4936.44] Our -[4936.44 --> 4936.72] Sort -[4936.72 --> 4936.88] Of -[4936.88 --> 4937.16] Like -[4937.16 --> 4938.72] Christian -[4938.72 --> 4939.22] Slash -[4939.22 --> 4939.70] Church -[4939.70 --> 4939.98] And -[4939.98 --> 4940.26] Even -[4940.26 --> 4940.46] In -[4940.46 --> 4940.60] Our -[4940.60 --> 4940.94] Post -[4940.94 --> 4941.42] Christian -[4941.42 --> 4942.30] Culture -[4942.30 --> 4943.14] Right -[4943.14 --> 4943.60] That -[4943.60 --> 4943.82] Sort -[4943.82 --> 4943.94] Of -[4943.94 --> 4944.14] Puts -[4944.14 --> 4944.24] It -[4944.24 --> 4944.44] This -[4944.44 --> 4944.58] Way -[4944.58 --> 4944.72] That -[4944.72 --> 4944.86] Says -[4944.86 --> 4946.00] Can't -[4946.00 --> 4946.14] I -[4946.14 --> 4946.38] Just -[4946.38 --> 4946.64] Do -[4946.64 --> 4946.98] Whatever -[4946.98 --> 4947.24] I -[4947.24 --> 4947.66] Want -[4947.66 --> 4948.20] And -[4948.20 --> 4948.34] Then -[4948.34 --> 4948.60] Later -[4948.60 --> 4948.88] On -[4948.88 --> 4948.98] In -[4948.98 --> 4949.12] My -[4949.12 --> 4949.58] Life -[4949.58 --> 4950.24] Ask -[4950.24 --> 4950.44] God -[4950.44 --> 4950.60] For -[4950.60 --> 4950.62] For -[4950.62 --> 4950.64] For -[4950.64 --> 4950.90] For -[4950.90 --> 4951.84] For -[4951.84 --> 4951.94] And -[4951.94 --> 4952.16] It's -[4952.16 --> 4952.26] Going -[4952.26 --> 4952.30] To -[4952.30 --> 4952.40] All -[4952.40 --> 4952.50] Be -[4952.50 --> 4952.76] Okay -[4952.76 --> 4953.04] Right -[4953.04 --> 4954.82] But -[4954.82 --> 4954.94] I -[4954.94 --> 4955.16] Can't -[4955.16 --> 4955.32] Tell -[4955.32 --> 4955.44] You -[4955.44 --> 4955.66] How -[4955.66 --> 4955.86] Many -[4955.86 --> 4956.38] Times -[4956.38 --> 4956.60] I -[4956.60 --> 4956.74] Have -[4956.74 --> 4957.28] Heard -[4957.28 --> 4957.50] That -[4957.50 --> 4957.90] Question -[4957.90 --> 4958.14] From -[4958.14 --> 4958.48] People -[4958.48 --> 4959.50] Especially -[4959.50 --> 4960.24] If -[4960.24 --> 4960.34] We're -[4960.34 --> 4960.68] Candid -[4960.68 --> 4960.90] From -[4960.90 --> 4961.56] Teenagers -[4961.56 --> 4962.20] Most -[4962.20 --> 4962.36] Of -[4962.36 --> 4962.54] Whom -[4962.54 --> 4962.84] Just -[4962.84 --> 4963.06] Want -[4963.06 --> 4963.14] To -[4963.14 --> 4963.30] Know -[4963.30 --> 4963.50] How -[4963.50 --> 4963.86] Far -[4963.86 --> 4964.12] They're -[4964.12 --> 4964.34] Allowed -[4964.34 --> 4964.50] To -[4964.50 --> 4964.66] Go -[4964.66 --> 4964.78] In -[4964.78 --> 4964.88] A -[4964.88 --> 4965.16] Physical -[4965.16 --> 4965.78] Relationship -[4965.78 --> 4965.90] With -[4965.90 --> 4966.02] Their -[4966.02 --> 4966.36] Boyfriend -[4966.36 --> 4966.46] Or -[4966.46 --> 4966.88] Girlfriend -[4966.88 --> 4968.08] And -[4968.08 --> 4968.16] They -[4968.16 --> 4968.26] Go -[4968.26 --> 4968.38] Well -[4968.38 --> 4968.50] If -[4968.50 --> 4968.56] I -[4968.56 --> 4968.66] Go -[4968.66 --> 4968.82] Too -[4968.82 --> 4968.98] Far -[4968.98 --> 4969.06] I -[4969.06 --> 4969.14] Can -[4969.14 --> 4969.24] Just -[4969.24 --> 4969.48] For -[4969.48 --> 4969.50] For -[4969.50 --> 4969.52] For -[4969.52 --> 4970.06] For -[4970.06 --> 4970.10] For -[4970.10 --> 4970.22] For -[4970.22 --> 4970.28] For -[4970.28 --> 4971.06] For -[4971.06 --> 4971.66] But -[4971.66 --> 4972.02] Also -[4972.02 --> 4972.46] From -[4972.46 --> 4972.78] People -[4972.78 --> 4972.96] In -[4972.96 --> 4973.10] Their -[4973.10 --> 4973.44] Forties -[4973.44 --> 4973.58] And -[4973.58 --> 4974.10] Fifties -[4974.10 --> 4974.56] Who -[4974.56 --> 4974.86] Maybe -[4974.86 --> 4975.08] For -[4975.08 --> 4975.22] The -[4975.22 --> 4975.46] First -[4975.46 --> 4975.92] Time -[4975.92 --> 4976.38] Right -[4976.38 --> 4976.52] Are -[4976.52 --> 4976.88] Finally -[4976.88 --> 4977.16] Like -[4977.16 --> 4977.66] Entering -[4977.66 --> 4977.82] A -[4977.82 --> 4977.96] Little -[4977.96 --> 4978.10] Bit -[4978.10 --> 4978.22] Of -[4978.22 --> 4978.56] Freedom -[4978.56 --> 4978.78] In -[4978.78 --> 4978.90] Their -[4978.90 --> 4979.14] Life -[4979.14 --> 4979.40] Because -[4979.40 --> 4979.58] Their -[4979.58 --> 4979.84] Kids -[4979.84 --> 4980.02] Are -[4980.02 --> 4980.22] Old -[4980.22 --> 4980.52] Enough -[4980.52 --> 4980.80] They've -[4980.80 --> 4980.92] Got -[4980.92 --> 4981.18] Enough -[4981.18 --> 4982.18] Economic -[4982.18 --> 4982.74] Security -[4982.74 --> 4983.00] Where -[4983.00 --> 4983.12] They're -[4983.12 --> 4983.28] Like -[4983.28 --> 4983.40] You -[4983.40 --> 4983.48] Know -[4983.48 --> 4983.60] What -[4983.60 --> 4983.72] I -[4983.72 --> 4983.98] Really -[4983.98 --> 4984.30] Want -[4984.30 --> 4985.26] To -[4985.26 --> 4985.50] Spend -[4985.50 --> 4985.66] My -[4985.66 --> 4985.82] Money -[4985.82 --> 4986.00] On -[4986.00 --> 4986.60] Vacations -[4986.60 --> 4987.42] And -[4987.42 --> 4987.54] On -[4987.54 --> 4987.56] To -[4987.56 --> 4987.80] To -[4987.80 --> 4988.64] To -[4988.64 --> 4989.22] To -[4989.22 --> 4989.28] To -[4989.28 --> 4989.86] To -[4989.86 --> 4990.80] To -[4990.80 --> 4990.86] To -[4990.86 --> 4991.36] To -[4991.36 --> 4991.42] To -[4991.42 --> 4991.80] To -[4991.80 --> 4992.36] To -[4992.36 --> 4993.26] To -[4993.26 --> 4993.86] To -[4993.86 --> 4993.92] To -[4993.92 --> 4994.18] To -[4994.18 --> 4994.20] To -[4994.20 --> 4994.80] To -[4994.80 --> 4996.30] To -[4996.30 --> 4998.36] To -[4998.36 --> 4998.64] To -[4998.64 --> 4998.66] To -[4998.66 --> 4998.68] To -[4998.68 --> 5000.64] To -[5000.64 --> 5000.72] To -[5000.72 --> 5001.08] Question -[5001.08 --> 5001.80] That -[5001.80 --> 5001.88] I -[5001.88 --> 5002.00] Want -[5002.00 --> 5002.08] To -[5002.08 --> 5002.36] Ask -[5002.36 --> 5002.54] Whether -[5002.54 --> 5002.70] You're -[5002.70 --> 5002.82] A -[5002.82 --> 5003.22] Teenager -[5003.22 --> 5003.50] Or -[5003.50 --> 5004.12] 50 -[5004.12 --> 5005.10] Right -[5005.10 --> 5008.82] What -[5008.82 --> 5008.96] Does -[5008.96 --> 5009.10] It -[5009.10 --> 5009.50] Mean -[5009.50 --> 5010.88] What -[5010.88 --> 5011.00] Does -[5011.00 --> 5011.12] It -[5011.12 --> 5011.34] Mean -[5011.34 --> 5011.60] To -[5011.60 --> 5012.10] Honor -[5012.10 --> 5012.68] God -[5012.68 --> 5013.50] With -[5013.50 --> 5013.64] Your -[5013.64 --> 5013.98] Life -[5013.98 --> 5016.30] Right -[5016.30 --> 5016.50] If -[5016.50 --> 5016.94] God -[5016.94 --> 5017.20] In -[5017.20 --> 5017.54] Jesus -[5017.54 --> 5018.02] Christ -[5018.02 --> 5018.26] Was -[5018.26 --> 5019.10] Willing -[5019.10 --> 5019.26] To -[5019.26 --> 5019.52] Give -[5019.52 --> 5019.70] Up -[5019.70 --> 5019.92] His -[5019.92 --> 5020.28] Life -[5020.28 --> 5020.60] For -[5020.60 --> 5020.92] You -[5020.92 --> 5021.68] Surely -[5021.68 --> 5022.38] We -[5022.38 --> 5022.70] Should -[5022.70 --> 5022.82] At -[5022.82 --> 5022.94] Least -[5022.94 --> 5023.26] Ask -[5023.26 --> 5023.46] The -[5023.46 --> 5024.06] Question -[5024.06 --> 5024.62] What -[5024.62 --> 5024.98] Might -[5024.98 --> 5025.40] I -[5025.40 --> 5025.66] Need -[5025.66 --> 5025.84] To -[5025.84 --> 5026.06] Give -[5026.06 --> 5026.54] Up -[5026.54 --> 5027.12] What -[5027.12 --> 5027.34] Do -[5027.34 --> 5028.04] I -[5028.04 --> 5028.32] Need -[5028.32 --> 5028.50] To -[5028.50 --> 5028.80] Do -[5028.80 --> 5029.08] To -[5029.08 --> 5029.60] Honor -[5029.60 --> 5030.34] God -[5030.34 --> 5031.50] With -[5031.50 --> 5031.66] My -[5031.66 --> 5032.02] Life -[5032.02 --> 5034.24] And -[5034.24 --> 5035.64] I -[5035.64 --> 5035.94] Believe -[5035.94 --> 5036.42] And -[5036.42 --> 5036.96] Have -[5036.96 --> 5037.66] Experienced -[5037.66 --> 5038.18] That -[5038.18 --> 5038.40] On -[5038.40 --> 5038.98] Balance -[5038.98 --> 5039.52] At -[5039.52 --> 5039.66] The -[5039.66 --> 5039.96] End -[5039.96 --> 5040.26] When -[5040.26 --> 5040.40] We -[5040.40 --> 5040.60] Look -[5040.60 --> 5040.92] Back -[5040.92 --> 5041.18] On -[5041.18 --> 5041.30] It -[5041.30 --> 5041.60] All -[5041.60 --> 5042.32] When -[5042.32 --> 5042.44] We -[5042.44 --> 5042.74] See -[5042.74 --> 5042.96] The -[5042.96 --> 5043.28] Things -[5043.28 --> 5043.46] That -[5043.46 --> 5043.56] We -[5043.56 --> 5043.68] Have -[5043.68 --> 5043.98] Given -[5043.98 --> 5044.32] Up -[5044.32 --> 5044.90] Willingly -[5044.90 --> 5045.24] To -[5045.24 --> 5045.50] Honor -[5045.50 --> 5045.88] God -[5045.88 --> 5046.48] In -[5046.48 --> 5046.86] Our -[5046.86 --> 5047.28] Life -[5047.28 --> 5047.50] That -[5047.50 --> 5047.88] None -[5047.88 --> 5048.04] Of -[5048.04 --> 5048.24] It -[5048.24 --> 5048.84] Will -[5048.84 --> 5049.14] Matter -[5049.14 --> 5050.30] That -[5050.30 --> 5050.56] All -[5050.56 --> 5050.72] Of -[5050.72 --> 5050.88] It -[5050.88 --> 5051.08] Will -[5051.08 --> 5051.46] In -[5051.46 --> 5051.62] Fact -[5051.62 --> 5052.12] Pale -[5052.12 --> 5052.40] In -[5052.40 --> 5053.02] Comparison -[5053.02 --> 5053.44] To -[5053.44 --> 5053.58] The -[5053.58 --> 5054.02] Glory -[5054.02 --> 5054.24] Of -[5054.24 --> 5054.46] God -[5054.46 --> 5054.64] That -[5054.64 --> 5054.74] Is -[5054.74 --> 5054.94] Being -[5054.94 --> 5055.32] Revealed -[5055.32 --> 5055.52] In -[5055.52 --> 5055.68] Us -[5055.68 --> 5056.06] That -[5056.06 --> 5056.26] All -[5056.26 --> 5056.36] Of -[5056.36 --> 5056.46] It -[5056.46 --> 5056.58] Will -[5056.58 --> 5056.76] Be -[5060.34 --> 5060.58] Jesus -[5060.58 --> 5061.02] At -[5061.02 --> 5061.16] The -[5061.16 --> 5061.42] End -[5061.42 --> 5061.60] When -[5061.60 --> 5061.76] He -[5061.76 --> 5062.10] Says -[5062.10 --> 5062.32] To -[5062.32 --> 5062.54] You -[5062.54 --> 5062.90] Well -[5062.90 --> 5063.40] Done -[5063.40 --> 5064.18] Good -[5064.18 --> 5064.62] And -[5064.62 --> 5065.34] Faithful -[5065.34 --> 5066.28] Servant -[5066.28 --> 5068.24] And -[5068.24 --> 5068.54] The -[5068.54 --> 5068.76] Second -[5068.76 --> 5069.18] Question -[5069.18 --> 5069.34] That -[5069.34 --> 5069.44] I -[5069.44 --> 5069.54] Want -[5069.54 --> 5069.62] To -[5069.62 --> 5070.08] Ask -[5070.08 --> 5070.30] In -[5070.30 --> 5070.46] That -[5070.46 --> 5070.88] Moment -[5070.88 --> 5072.08] To -[5072.08 --> 5072.22] The -[5072.22 --> 5072.96] Idea -[5072.96 --> 5073.16] That -[5073.16 --> 5073.50] Says -[5073.50 --> 5073.84] I'll -[5073.84 --> 5074.12] Just -[5074.12 --> 5074.38] Do -[5074.38 --> 5074.60] Whatever -[5074.60 --> 5074.76] I -[5074.76 --> 5074.96] Want -[5074.96 --> 5075.32] Now -[5075.32 --> 5075.54] And -[5075.54 --> 5075.66] Then -[5075.66 --> 5075.94] Ask -[5075.94 --> 5076.32] Forgiveness -[5076.32 --> 5076.60] Later -[5076.60 --> 5076.78] The -[5076.78 --> 5077.00] Second -[5077.00 --> 5077.32] Question -[5077.32 --> 5077.48] I -[5077.48 --> 5077.62] Want -[5077.62 --> 5077.70] To -[5077.70 --> 5078.00] Ask -[5078.00 --> 5078.16] Is -[5078.16 --> 5079.28] That -[5079.28 --> 5079.42] This -[5079.42 --> 5080.32] Starts -[5080.32 --> 5080.44] By -[5080.44 --> 5080.70] Pointing -[5080.70 --> 5080.94] Something -[5080.94 --> 5081.22] Out -[5081.22 --> 5081.42] That -[5081.42 --> 5082.06] This -[5082.06 --> 5082.34] Way -[5082.34 --> 5082.56] Of -[5082.56 --> 5083.00] Thinking -[5083.00 --> 5083.76] About -[5083.76 --> 5084.22] Life -[5084.22 --> 5084.84] Is -[5084.84 --> 5085.14] Rooted -[5085.14 --> 5085.54] In -[5085.54 --> 5085.68] An -[5085.68 --> 5086.22] Assumption -[5086.22 --> 5087.38] And -[5087.38 --> 5087.48] Some -[5087.48 --> 5087.58] Of -[5087.58 --> 5087.64] You -[5087.64 --> 5087.72] Are -[5087.72 --> 5087.82] Going -[5087.82 --> 5087.86] To -[5087.86 --> 5087.96] Go -[5087.96 --> 5088.14] Yeah -[5088.14 --> 5088.30] It's -[5088.30 --> 5088.48] Rooted -[5088.48 --> 5088.64] In -[5088.64 --> 5089.02] Assumption -[5089.02 --> 5089.20] That -[5089.20 --> 5089.34] You're -[5089.34 --> 5089.44] Going -[5089.44 --> 5089.52] To -[5089.52 --> 5089.70] Live -[5089.70 --> 5089.84] To -[5089.84 --> 5089.96] A -[5089.96 --> 5090.10] Point -[5090.10 --> 5090.22] Where -[5090.22 --> 5090.32] You -[5090.32 --> 5090.46] Can -[5090.46 --> 5090.90] Ask -[5090.90 --> 5091.50] For -[5091.50 --> 5091.52] For -[5091.52 --> 5091.54] For -[5091.54 --> 5091.56] For -[5091.56 --> 5091.68] For -[5091.68 --> 5092.12] For -[5092.12 --> 5092.42] For -[5092.42 --> 5092.70] For -[5092.70 --> 5092.86] For -[5092.86 --> 5092.88] For -[5092.88 --> 5093.08] For -[5093.08 --> 5093.10] For -[5093.10 --> 5093.72] For -[5093.72 --> 5094.76] For -[5094.76 --> 5094.78] For -[5094.78 --> 5096.84] For -[5096.84 --> 5096.86] For -[5096.86 --> 5109.86] For -[5109.86 --> 5109.88] For -[5109.88 --> 5109.94] For -[5109.94 --> 5110.14] For -[5110.14 --> 5111.94] For -[5111.94 --> 5112.22] For -[5112.22 --> 5112.24] For -[5112.24 --> 5112.30] For -[5112.30 --> 5112.32] For -[5112.32 --> 5113.06] For -[5113.06 --> 5113.14] For -[5113.14 --> 5113.94] For -[5113.94 --> 5114.18] For -[5114.18 --> 5115.12] For -[5115.12 --> 5115.18] For -[5115.18 --> 5115.58] Believe -[5115.58 --> 5116.70] Right -[5116.70 --> 5116.82] That -[5116.82 --> 5117.14] By -[5117.14 --> 5117.56] Grace -[5117.56 --> 5117.86] Through -[5117.86 --> 5118.38] Faith -[5118.38 --> 5118.92] We've -[5118.92 --> 5119.04] Been -[5119.04 --> 5119.32] Taken -[5119.32 --> 5119.48] Out -[5119.48 --> 5119.58] Of -[5119.58 --> 5119.94] Darkness -[5119.94 --> 5120.24] And -[5120.24 --> 5120.92] Into -[5120.92 --> 5121.34] And -[5121.34 --> 5121.58] Brought -[5121.58 --> 5121.86] Into -[5121.86 --> 5122.54] His -[5122.54 --> 5122.86] Light -[5122.86 --> 5123.06] And -[5123.06 --> 5123.50] And -[5123.50 --> 5125.04] Belief -[5125.04 --> 5126.54] Is -[5126.54 --> 5126.78] Made -[5126.78 --> 5127.28] Real -[5127.28 --> 5128.78] Faith -[5128.78 --> 5129.66] Is -[5129.66 --> 5129.92] Made -[5129.92 --> 5130.48] Real -[5130.48 --> 5131.00] When -[5131.00 --> 5131.12] It -[5131.12 --> 5131.26] Is -[5131.26 --> 5131.48] Made -[5131.48 --> 5132.34] Evident -[5132.34 --> 5132.74] By -[5132.74 --> 5132.92] The -[5132.92 --> 5133.42] Fruit -[5133.42 --> 5134.28] In -[5134.28 --> 5134.40] Your -[5134.40 --> 5134.78] Life -[5134.78 --> 5135.46] Right -[5135.46 --> 5135.66] The -[5135.66 --> 5136.02] Truth -[5136.02 --> 5136.24] Of -[5136.24 --> 5136.44] Your -[5136.44 --> 5137.20] Receiving -[5137.20 --> 5137.84] Forgiveness -[5137.84 --> 5138.18] Is -[5138.18 --> 5138.98] Displayed -[5138.98 --> 5139.34] By -[5139.34 --> 5139.52] How -[5139.52 --> 5139.70] You -[5139.70 --> 5139.92] Live -[5139.92 --> 5140.10] Your -[5140.10 --> 5140.38] Life -[5140.38 --> 5140.60] Here -[5140.60 --> 5140.76] And -[5140.76 --> 5141.04] Now -[5141.04 --> 5141.52] And -[5141.52 --> 5141.78] That's -[5141.78 --> 5141.98] The -[5141.98 --> 5142.28] Order -[5142.28 --> 5142.66] And -[5142.66 --> 5142.76] The -[5142.76 --> 5143.02] Order -[5143.02 --> 5143.60] Matters -[5143.60 --> 5144.38] Right -[5144.38 --> 5144.52] You -[5145.18 --> 5146.18] Have -[5146.18 --> 5146.56] Done -[5146.56 --> 5146.90] Good -[5146.90 --> 5147.44] Works -[5147.44 --> 5148.04] You've -[5148.04 --> 5148.18] Been -[5148.18 --> 5148.52] Given -[5148.52 --> 5148.92] Faith -[5148.92 --> 5149.16] By -[5149.16 --> 5149.34] The -[5149.34 --> 5149.58] Grace -[5149.58 --> 5149.76] Of -[5149.76 --> 5150.06] God -[5150.06 --> 5150.52] So -[5150.52 --> 5150.70] That -[5150.70 --> 5150.84] You -[5150.84 --> 5151.04] Can -[5151.04 --> 5151.24] Do -[5151.24 --> 5151.44] The -[5151.44 --> 5151.94] Practice -[5151.94 --> 5152.56] Of -[5152.56 --> 5153.30] Faith -[5153.30 --> 5153.68] You -[5153.68 --> 5153.84] Could -[5153.84 --> 5154.20] Produce -[5154.20 --> 5154.40] The -[5154.40 --> 5154.78] Fruit -[5154.78 --> 5155.50] Of -[5155.50 --> 5156.12] Faith -[5156.12 --> 5157.24] For -[5157.24 --> 5157.26] For -[5157.26 --> 5158.12] For -[5158.12 --> 5158.46] Faith -[5158.46 --> 5159.34] For -[5159.34 --> 5159.74] Faith -[5159.74 --> 5159.90] For -[5159.90 --> 5160.48] Faith -[5160.48 --> 5161.06] For -[5161.06 --> 5162.50] Faith -[5162.50 --> 5163.24] Now -[5163.24 --> 5163.54] To -[5163.54 --> 5164.14] Forgiveness -[5164.14 --> 5164.68] At -[5164.68 --> 5164.80] The -[5164.80 --> 5165.10] End -[5165.10 --> 5165.68] Goes -[5165.68 --> 5166.24] Through -[5166.24 --> 5166.54] The -[5166.54 --> 5167.00] Fruit -[5167.00 --> 5167.62] Of -[5167.62 --> 5168.50] Faith -[5168.50 --> 5171.30] Here's -[5171.30 --> 5171.40] The -[5171.40 --> 5171.58] Point -[5171.58 --> 5173.70] If -[5173.70 --> 5173.92] You -[5173.92 --> 5174.38] Believe -[5174.38 --> 5175.66] You -[5175.66 --> 5175.92] Will -[5175.92 --> 5176.46] Produce -[5176.46 --> 5176.82] Fruit -[5176.82 --> 5179.66] And -[5179.66 --> 5179.80] So -[5179.80 --> 5180.02] To -[5180.02 --> 5180.50] Hold -[5180.50 --> 5181.04] Off -[5181.04 --> 5181.28] The -[5181.28 --> 5181.94] Producing -[5181.94 --> 5182.22] Of -[5182.22 --> 5182.56] Fruit -[5182.56 --> 5182.88] In -[5182.88 --> 5183.08] Your -[5183.08 --> 5183.60] Life -[5183.60 --> 5184.48] Or -[5184.48 --> 5184.60] The -[5184.60 --> 5184.98] Producing -[5184.98 --> 5185.16] Of -[5185.16 --> 5185.44] Good -[5185.44 --> 5185.82] Fruit -[5185.82 --> 5186.04] Of -[5186.04 --> 5186.52] Faithful -[5186.52 --> 5186.76] Fruit -[5186.76 --> 5186.94] In -[5186.94 --> 5187.06] Your -[5187.06 --> 5187.36] Life -[5187.36 --> 5187.78] To -[5187.78 --> 5187.98] Hold -[5187.98 --> 5188.16] That -[5188.16 --> 5188.34] At -[5188.34 --> 5188.58] Bay -[5188.58 --> 5188.90] Because -[5188.90 --> 5189.06] You -[5189.06 --> 5189.22] Want -[5189.22 --> 5189.32] To -[5189.32 --> 5189.86] Produce -[5189.86 --> 5190.96] Other -[5190.96 --> 5191.40] Fruit -[5191.40 --> 5191.70] Your -[5191.70 --> 5191.96] Own -[5191.96 --> 5192.32] Fruit -[5192.32 --> 5192.46] Or -[5192.46 --> 5192.96] Bad -[5192.96 --> 5193.36] Fruit -[5193.36 --> 5193.96] Is -[5193.96 --> 5194.14] To -[5194.14 --> 5194.82] Display -[5194.82 --> 5195.50] A -[5195.50 --> 5195.80] Lack -[5195.80 --> 5196.04] Of -[5196.04 --> 5196.54] Genuine -[5196.54 --> 5197.30] Faith -[5197.30 --> 5199.22] And -[5199.22 --> 5199.36] So -[5199.36 --> 5199.52] The -[5199.52 --> 5199.94] Question -[5199.94 --> 5201.10] Can't -[5201.10 --> 5201.22] I -[5201.22 --> 5201.38] Just -[5201.38 --> 5201.54] Do -[5201.54 --> 5202.00] This -[5202.00 --> 5202.20] And -[5202.20 --> 5202.62] Ask -[5202.62 --> 5202.76] For -[5202.76 --> 5202.78] For -[5202.78 --> 5202.80] For -[5202.80 --> 5203.38] For -[5203.38 --> 5203.44] For -[5203.44 --> 5204.02] Is -[5204.02 --> 5204.36] Really -[5204.36 --> 5204.64] An -[5204.64 --> 5205.20] Excuse -[5205.20 --> 5205.50] To -[5205.50 --> 5206.20] Practice -[5206.20 --> 5206.74] What -[5206.74 --> 5207.02] You -[5207.02 --> 5207.32] Think -[5207.32 --> 5207.50] Is -[5207.50 --> 5207.78] Good -[5207.78 --> 5207.96] And -[5207.96 --> 5208.16] Better -[5208.16 --> 5208.34] Or -[5208.34 --> 5208.48] What -[5208.48 --> 5208.64] You -[5208.64 --> 5208.88] Think -[5208.88 --> 5209.12] Might -[5213.60 --> 5214.60] What -[5214.60 --> 5215.80] God -[5215.80 --> 5216.20] Says Is -[5216.20 --> 5216.70] True -[5216.70 --> 5217.38] Which -[5217.38 --> 5217.64] Brings -[5217.64 --> 5217.88] Us -[5217.88 --> 5219.10] To -[5219.10 --> 5219.22] The -[5219.22 --> 5219.48] Last -[5219.48 --> 5219.86] Question -[5219.86 --> 5221.32] The -[5221.32 --> 5221.58] Last -[5221.58 --> 5221.78] What -[5221.78 --> 5222.08] About -[5222.08 --> 5223.08] In -[5223.08 --> 5223.30] Verse -[5223.30 --> 5223.58] Nine -[5223.58 --> 5226.06] What -[5226.06 --> 5226.34] Then -[5226.34 --> 5226.80] Do -[5226.80 --> 5226.92] We -[5226.92 --> 5227.10] Have -[5227.10 --> 5227.34] Any -[5227.34 --> 5227.92] Advantage -[5227.92 --> 5228.14] Or -[5228.14 --> 5228.32] As -[5228.32 --> 5228.52] Another -[5228.52 --> 5229.02] Translation -[5229.02 --> 5229.22] Might -[5229.22 --> 5229.36] Say -[5229.36 --> 5229.56] Are -[5229.56 --> 5229.72] We -[5229.72 --> 5229.94] Any -[5229.94 --> 5230.16] Better -[5230.16 --> 5230.58] Off -[5230.58 --> 5232.48] And -[5232.48 --> 5232.84] This -[5232.84 --> 5233.00] Is -[5233.00 --> 5233.14] Where -[5233.14 --> 5233.30] We -[5233.30 --> 5233.60] Hear -[5233.60 --> 5233.88] What -[5233.88 --> 5234.32] Sounds -[5234.32 --> 5235.28] Like -[5235.28 --> 5235.48] At -[5235.48 --> 5235.60] Our -[5235.60 --> 5235.86] First -[5235.86 --> 5236.22] Reading -[5236.22 --> 5236.68] A -[5236.68 --> 5237.24] Contradiction -[5237.24 --> 5238.00] Because -[5238.00 --> 5238.26] Paul -[5238.26 --> 5238.70] Answers -[5238.70 --> 5238.98] And -[5238.98 --> 5239.08] He -[5239.08 --> 5239.38] Says -[5239.38 --> 5240.24] Not -[5240.24 --> 5240.36] At -[5240.36 --> 5240.54] All -[5240.54 --> 5242.40] But -[5242.40 --> 5242.52] What -[5242.52 --> 5242.62] I -[5242.62 --> 5242.82] Hope -[5242.82 --> 5242.96] We -[5242.96 --> 5243.08] Will -[5243.08 --> 5243.40] See -[5243.40 --> 5243.58] Is -[5243.58 --> 5243.72] That -[5243.72 --> 5243.84] It's -[5243.84 --> 5244.02] Not -[5244.02 --> 5244.16] A -[5244.16 --> 5244.80] Contradiction -[5244.80 --> 5245.16] It's -[5245.16 --> 5245.76] Actually -[5245.76 --> 5246.48] A -[5246.48 --> 5247.20] Conclusion -[5247.20 --> 5249.04] Notice -[5249.04 --> 5249.26] What -[5249.26 --> 5249.42] Paul -[5249.42 --> 5249.80] Says -[5249.80 --> 5250.04] He -[5250.04 --> 5250.80] Continues -[5250.80 --> 5251.42] We -[5251.42 --> 5251.74] Already -[5251.74 --> 5251.96] Made -[5251.96 --> 5252.10] The -[5252.10 --> 5252.50] Charge -[5252.50 --> 5252.72] That -[5252.72 --> 5253.00] Jews -[5253.00 --> 5253.20] And -[5253.20 --> 5253.64] Gentiles -[5253.64 --> 5254.00] Alike -[5254.00 --> 5254.16] Are -[5254.16 --> 5254.36] Under -[5254.36 --> 5254.52] The -[5254.52 --> 5254.78] Power -[5254.78 --> 5254.96] Of -[5254.96 --> 5255.22] Sin -[5255.22 --> 5255.74] That -[5255.74 --> 5255.96] Is -[5255.96 --> 5256.36] God's -[5256.36 --> 5256.68] Righteous -[5256.68 --> 5256.98] Judgment -[5256.98 --> 5257.20] For -[5257.20 --> 5257.36] Our -[5257.36 --> 5257.58] Sin -[5257.58 --> 5257.76] Our -[5257.76 --> 5258.04] Total -[5258.04 --> 5259.28] Inability -[5259.28 --> 5259.56] To -[5259.56 --> 5259.74] Do -[5259.74 --> 5259.94] Any -[5259.94 --> 5260.20] Good -[5260.20 --> 5260.64] Has -[5260.64 --> 5261.10] Already -[5261.10 --> 5261.32] Been -[5261.32 --> 5261.52] Made -[5261.52 --> 5261.84] Clear -[5261.84 --> 5263.16] And -[5263.16 --> 5263.26] Then -[5263.26 --> 5263.36] He -[5263.36 --> 5263.62] Makes -[5263.62 --> 5263.82] That -[5263.82 --> 5264.04] Point -[5264.04 --> 5264.54] Again -[5264.54 --> 5265.44] And -[5265.44 --> 5265.54] You -[5265.54 --> 5265.66] Can -[5265.66 --> 5265.86] Read -[5265.86 --> 5265.96] It -[5265.96 --> 5266.10] With -[5266.10 --> 5266.22] Me -[5266.22 --> 5266.40] This -[5266.40 --> 5266.56] Time -[5266.56 --> 5266.66] He -[5266.66 --> 5266.84] Does -[5266.84 --> 5266.96] It -[5273.58 --> 5274.24] As -[5274.24 --> 5274.36] It -[5274.36 --> 5274.48] Is -[5274.48 --> 5274.72] Written -[5274.72 --> 5274.98] There -[5274.98 --> 5275.12] Is -[5275.12 --> 5275.38] No -[5275.38 --> 5275.70] One -[5275.70 --> 5276.30] Righteous -[5276.30 --> 5276.52] Not -[5276.52 --> 5276.70] Even -[5276.70 --> 5277.00] One -[5277.00 --> 5277.48] There -[5277.48 --> 5277.56] Is -[5277.56 --> 5277.72] No -[5277.72 --> 5277.88] One -[5277.88 --> 5278.02] Who -[5278.02 --> 5278.66] Understands -[5278.66 --> 5278.74] There -[5278.74 --> 5278.80] Is -[5278.80 --> 5279.00] No -[5279.00 --> 5279.20] One -[5279.20 --> 5279.34] Who -[5279.34 --> 5279.60] Seeks -[5279.60 --> 5279.88] God -[5279.88 --> 5280.12] All -[5280.12 --> 5280.30] Have -[5280.30 --> 5281.00] Sinned -[5281.00 --> 5281.22] And -[5281.22 --> 5281.48] Turned -[5281.48 --> 5281.64] Away -[5281.64 --> 5281.80] They -[5281.80 --> 5282.02] All -[5282.02 --> 5282.30] Together -[5282.30 --> 5282.64] Become -[5282.64 --> 5283.06] Worthless -[5283.06 --> 5283.20] There -[5283.20 --> 5283.28] Is -[5283.28 --> 5283.50] No -[5283.50 --> 5283.78] One -[5283.78 --> 5283.96] Who -[5283.96 --> 5284.24] Does -[5284.24 --> 5284.58] Good -[5284.58 --> 5285.40] Not -[5285.40 --> 5286.34] Even -[5286.34 --> 5287.48] One -[5287.48 --> 5288.10] And -[5288.10 --> 5288.22] He -[5288.22 --> 5288.42] Goes -[5288.42 --> 5288.72] On -[5288.72 --> 5291.46] Now -[5291.46 --> 5291.80] This -[5291.80 --> 5292.10] In -[5292.10 --> 5292.46] Fact -[5292.46 --> 5293.52] Is -[5293.52 --> 5293.64] A -[5293.64 --> 5293.84] Whole -[5293.84 --> 5294.38] Section -[5294.38 --> 5294.74] And -[5294.74 --> 5295.24] Series -[5295.24 --> 5295.52] Of -[5295.52 --> 5295.98] Quotes -[5295.98 --> 5296.16] And -[5296.16 --> 5296.24] You -[5296.24 --> 5296.36] Can -[5296.36 --> 5296.60] Tell -[5296.60 --> 5296.86] That -[5296.86 --> 5297.02] In -[5297.02 --> 5297.16] Your -[5297.16 --> 5297.52] Bibles -[5297.52 --> 5297.86] By -[5303.58 --> 5304.28] 53 -[5304.28 --> 5305.02] 140 -[5305.02 --> 5305.74] These -[5305.74 --> 5305.86] Are -[5305.86 --> 5306.12] Quotes -[5306.12 --> 5306.32] From -[5306.32 --> 5307.20] Ecclesiastes -[5307.20 --> 5307.68] 7 -[5307.68 --> 5308.16] Verse -[5308.16 --> 5308.46] 20 -[5308.46 --> 5308.94] Quotes -[5308.94 --> 5309.10] From -[5309.10 --> 5309.42] Isaiah -[5309.42 --> 5309.94] 59 -[5309.94 --> 5310.64] All -[5310.64 --> 5311.00] Throughout -[5311.00 --> 5313.36] Here's -[5313.36 --> 5313.58] Then -[5313.58 --> 5313.80] What -[5313.80 --> 5313.94] I -[5313.94 --> 5314.16] Believe -[5314.16 --> 5314.48] Paul's -[5314.48 --> 5314.72] Point -[5314.72 --> 5314.98] Is -[5314.98 --> 5316.06] Right -[5316.06 --> 5316.18] The -[5316.18 --> 5316.74] Advantage -[5316.74 --> 5316.96] To -[5316.96 --> 5317.24] Being -[5317.24 --> 5317.50] A -[5317.50 --> 5317.84] Jew -[5317.84 --> 5318.30] Right -[5318.30 --> 5318.48] Is -[5318.48 --> 5318.88] Having -[5318.88 --> 5319.12] The -[5319.12 --> 5319.48] Scriptures -[5319.48 --> 5320.82] And -[5320.82 --> 5321.12] Then -[5321.12 --> 5321.40] When -[5321.40 --> 5321.58] You -[5321.58 --> 5322.04] Read -[5322.04 --> 5322.32] The -[5322.32 --> 5322.72] Scriptures -[5322.72 --> 5323.66] You -[5323.66 --> 5323.84] Will -[5323.84 --> 5324.16] See -[5324.16 --> 5324.58] That -[5324.58 --> 5324.74] There's -[5324.74 --> 5324.90] No -[5324.90 --> 5325.28] Advantage -[5325.28 --> 5325.46] To -[5325.46 --> 5325.64] Being -[5325.64 --> 5325.78] A -[5325.78 --> 5325.94] Jew -[5325.94 --> 5327.60] And -[5327.60 --> 5327.88] So -[5327.88 --> 5328.20] Like -[5328.20 --> 5328.36] We -[5328.36 --> 5328.60] Said -[5328.60 --> 5328.88] Verse -[5328.88 --> 5329.18] 1 -[5329.18 --> 5329.68] And -[5329.68 --> 5330.04] Verse -[5330.04 --> 5330.90] 1 -[5330.90 --> 5331.02] And -[5331.02 --> 5331.16] 2 -[5331.16 --> 5331.32] And -[5331.32 --> 5331.46] Verse -[5331.46 --> 5331.66] 9 -[5331.66 --> 5331.88] Is -[5331.88 --> 5332.10] Not -[5332.10 --> 5332.26] A -[5332.26 --> 5333.02] Contradiction -[5333.02 --> 5333.52] It's -[5333.52 --> 5333.68] The -[5333.68 --> 5334.12] Logical -[5334.12 --> 5334.70] Conclusion -[5334.70 --> 5335.16] Of -[5335.16 --> 5335.44] Having -[5335.44 --> 5335.60] The -[5335.60 --> 5335.74] Word -[5335.74 --> 5335.86] Of -[5335.86 --> 5336.16] God -[5336.16 --> 5337.76] And -[5337.76 --> 5337.90] It's -[5337.90 --> 5338.04] The -[5338.04 --> 5338.40] Logical -[5338.40 --> 5338.88] Conclusion -[5338.88 --> 5339.14] From -[5339.14 --> 5339.70] Seeing -[5339.70 --> 5340.24] The -[5340.24 --> 5340.60] World -[5340.60 --> 5340.94] And -[5340.94 --> 5341.12] In -[5341.12 --> 5341.22] The -[5341.22 --> 5341.78] Perspective -[5341.78 --> 5341.92] Of -[5341.92 --> 5342.04] The -[5342.04 --> 5342.46] Truth -[5342.46 --> 5342.70] Of -[5342.70 --> 5343.14] God's -[5343.14 --> 5344.04] Revelation -[5344.04 --> 5345.34] And -[5345.34 --> 5345.48] So -[5345.48 --> 5345.62] We -[5345.62 --> 5345.76] Can -[5345.76 --> 5346.08] Conclude -[5346.08 --> 5346.22] That -[5346.22 --> 5346.38] If -[5346.38 --> 5346.52] There -[5346.52 --> 5346.84] Is -[5346.84 --> 5347.24] Any -[5347.24 --> 5348.18] Advantage -[5348.18 --> 5348.86] It -[5348.86 --> 5348.98] Is -[5348.98 --> 5349.14] That -[5349.14 --> 5349.38] Any -[5349.38 --> 5349.74] Sense -[5349.74 --> 5349.98] Of -[5349.98 --> 5350.52] Religious -[5350.52 --> 5351.30] Personal -[5351.30 --> 5351.88] Pride -[5351.88 --> 5352.36] Is -[5352.36 --> 5353.16] Undone -[5353.16 --> 5353.72] By -[5353.72 --> 5353.90] The -[5353.90 --> 5354.50] Humility -[5354.50 --> 5355.26] Of -[5355.26 --> 5355.42] The -[5355.42 --> 5355.84] Truth -[5355.84 --> 5358.32] In -[5358.32 --> 5358.44] The -[5358.44 --> 5358.66] End -[5358.66 --> 5360.26] I -[5360.26 --> 5360.42] Think -[5360.42 --> 5360.68] That's -[5360.68 --> 5361.02] Paul's -[5361.02 --> 5361.76] Point -[5361.88 --> 5362.98] In -[5362.98 --> 5363.24] Verse -[5363.24 --> 5363.70] 19 -[5363.70 --> 5364.12] When -[5364.12 --> 5364.24] He -[5364.24 --> 5364.58] Says -[5364.58 --> 5366.14] We -[5366.14 --> 5366.54] Know -[5366.54 --> 5367.76] That -[5367.76 --> 5368.04] Whatever -[5368.04 --> 5368.28] The -[5368.28 --> 5368.56] Law -[5368.56 --> 5369.08] Says -[5369.08 --> 5369.30] It -[5369.30 --> 5369.54] Says -[5369.54 --> 5369.68] To -[5369.68 --> 5369.92] Those -[5369.92 --> 5370.06] Who -[5370.06 --> 5370.18] Are -[5370.18 --> 5370.44] Under -[5370.44 --> 5370.64] The -[5370.64 --> 5370.92] Law -[5370.92 --> 5371.44] So -[5371.44 --> 5371.80] That -[5371.80 --> 5372.38] Every -[5372.38 --> 5372.90] Mouth -[5372.90 --> 5373.14] May -[5373.14 --> 5373.26] Be -[5373.26 --> 5373.92] Silenced -[5373.92 --> 5374.46] And -[5374.46 --> 5374.60] The -[5374.60 --> 5374.92] Whole -[5374.92 --> 5375.58] World -[5375.58 --> 5376.30] Held -[5376.30 --> 5377.02] Accountable -[5377.02 --> 5377.52] To -[5377.52 --> 5377.90] God -[5377.90 --> 5379.76] See -[5379.76 --> 5379.92] This -[5379.92 --> 5380.04] Is -[5380.04 --> 5380.24] About -[5380.24 --> 5380.86] Humility -[5380.86 --> 5382.36] This -[5382.36 --> 5382.48] Is -[5382.48 --> 5382.68] About -[5382.68 --> 5383.12] Seeing -[5383.12 --> 5383.36] The -[5383.36 --> 5383.74] Truth -[5383.74 --> 5383.96] Of -[5383.96 --> 5384.12] Our -[5384.12 --> 5384.90] Circumstances -[5384.90 --> 5385.14] And -[5385.14 --> 5385.50] Knowing -[5385.50 --> 5385.76] That -[5385.76 --> 5385.92] We -[5385.92 --> 5386.44] Need -[5386.44 --> 5386.98] A -[5386.98 --> 5387.32] Savior -[5387.32 --> 5387.84] And -[5387.84 --> 5388.40] Perhaps -[5388.40 --> 5389.18] Especially -[5389.18 --> 5389.56] For -[5389.56 --> 5389.88] Those -[5389.88 --> 5390.06] Of -[5390.06 --> 5390.30] Us -[5390.30 --> 5390.76] Who -[5390.76 --> 5391.00] Are -[5391.00 --> 5391.72] Religious -[5391.72 --> 5391.96] For -[5391.96 --> 5392.20] Those -[5392.20 --> 5392.36] Of -[5392.36 --> 5392.54] Us -[5392.54 --> 5392.68] Who -[5392.68 --> 5392.80] Are -[5392.80 --> 5393.54] Traditional -[5393.54 --> 5393.90] We -[5393.90 --> 5394.24] Need -[5394.24 --> 5394.50] This -[5394.50 --> 5395.10] Reminder -[5395.10 --> 5395.64] More -[5395.64 --> 5396.12] And -[5396.12 --> 5396.48] More -[5396.48 --> 5396.92] Right -[5396.92 --> 5397.06] It -[5397.06 --> 5397.24] Is -[5397.24 --> 5398.16] Humility -[5398.16 --> 5398.90] That -[5398.90 --> 5399.08] Is -[5399.08 --> 5399.70] Compelling -[5399.70 --> 5400.50] It -[5400.50 --> 5400.64] Is -[5400.64 --> 5401.32] Gentleness -[5401.32 --> 5401.62] And -[5401.62 --> 5402.20] Respect -[5402.20 --> 5402.68] That -[5402.68 --> 5402.82] Is -[5402.82 --> 5403.48] Stirring -[5403.48 --> 5403.74] For -[5403.74 --> 5404.34] One's -[5404.34 --> 5405.06] Imagination -[5405.06 --> 5405.30] For -[5405.30 --> 5405.44] The -[5405.44 --> 5405.70] Things -[5405.70 --> 5405.84] That -[5405.84 --> 5405.94] Are -[5405.94 --> 5406.48] Possible -[5406.48 --> 5407.02] In -[5407.02 --> 5407.16] The -[5407.16 --> 5407.46] Power -[5407.46 --> 5407.68] Of -[5407.68 --> 5407.96] God -[5407.96 --> 5409.72] Knowing -[5409.72 --> 5410.14] The -[5410.14 --> 5410.56] Rule -[5410.56 --> 5410.90] Is -[5410.90 --> 5411.14] A -[5411.14 --> 5411.40] Good -[5411.40 --> 5411.90] Thing -[5411.90 --> 5412.52] When -[5412.52 --> 5412.76] Our -[5412.76 --> 5413.26] Knowledge -[5413.26 --> 5413.58] Of -[5413.58 --> 5413.82] The -[5413.82 --> 5414.04] Rule -[5414.04 --> 5414.60] Drives -[5414.60 --> 5414.86] Us -[5414.86 --> 5415.00] To -[5415.00 --> 5415.14] The -[5415.14 --> 5415.64] Cross -[5415.64 --> 5416.16] Of -[5416.16 --> 5416.48] Jesus -[5416.48 --> 5417.06] Christ -[5417.06 --> 5447.06] -[5447.06 --> 5447.40] Death -[5447.40 --> 5447.66] That -[5447.66 --> 5448.30] Death -[5448.30 --> 5449.66] That -[5449.66 --> 5449.82] I -[5449.82 --> 5450.04] Deserve -[5450.04 --> 5450.06] And -[5450.06 --> 5450.14] That -[5450.14 --> 5450.30] In -[5450.30 --> 5450.52] His -[5450.52 --> 5450.92] Coming -[5450.92 --> 5451.24] And -[5451.24 --> 5451.58] Living -[5451.58 --> 5451.92] And -[5451.92 --> 5452.34] Dying -[5452.34 --> 5452.56] In -[5452.56 --> 5452.80] His -[5452.80 --> 5453.70] Resurrection -[5453.70 --> 5454.02] He -[5454.02 --> 5454.24] Has -[5454.24 --> 5454.48] Not -[5454.48 --> 5454.82] Only -[5454.82 --> 5455.46] Restored -[5455.46 --> 5455.72] Me -[5455.72 --> 5455.96] To -[5455.96 --> 5456.42] God -[5456.42 --> 5456.80] But -[5456.80 --> 5456.96] He -[5456.96 --> 5457.18] Has -[5457.18 --> 5457.78] Restored -[5457.78 --> 5458.08] All -[5458.08 --> 5458.26] Of -[5458.26 --> 5458.80] Creation -[5458.80 --> 5459.42] To -[5459.42 --> 5459.64] Its -[5459.64 --> 5460.26] Original -[5460.26 --> 5460.96] Purpose -[5460.96 --> 5461.14] To -[5461.14 --> 5461.30] Its -[5461.30 --> 5461.68] Original -[5461.68 --> 5462.22] Design -[5462.22 --> 5462.86] And -[5462.86 --> 5463.30] Intent -[5463.30 --> 5467.64] We -[5467.64 --> 5467.90] Began -[5467.90 --> 5468.08] By -[5468.08 --> 5468.54] Asking -[5468.54 --> 5469.76] And -[5469.76 --> 5470.70] Engaging -[5470.70 --> 5470.92] The -[5470.92 --> 5471.32] Question -[5471.32 --> 5472.20] How -[5472.20 --> 5472.34] Do -[5472.34 --> 5472.44] I -[5472.44 --> 5472.72] Change -[5472.72 --> 5472.88] The -[5472.88 --> 5473.14] World -[5473.14 --> 5476.72] I -[5476.72 --> 5476.92] Don't -[5476.92 --> 5476.94] Know -[5476.94 --> 5477.52] How -[5477.52 --> 5477.68] Many -[5477.68 --> 5477.78] Of -[5477.78 --> 5477.88] You -[5477.88 --> 5478.08] Have -[5478.08 --> 5478.38] Heard -[5478.38 --> 5479.28] This -[5479.28 --> 5479.62] Past -[5479.62 --> 5479.90] Week -[5479.90 --> 5480.14] But -[5480.14 --> 5481.74] The -[5481.74 --> 5482.20] News -[5482.20 --> 5482.94] And -[5482.94 --> 5483.04] The -[5483.04 --> 5483.48] Reports -[5483.48 --> 5483.64] That -[5483.64 --> 5483.74] Are -[5483.74 --> 5484.00] Coming -[5484.00 --> 5484.36] Out -[5484.36 --> 5484.58] Of -[5484.58 --> 5485.24] Asbury -[5485.24 --> 5485.94] University -[5485.94 --> 5486.78] Right -[5486.78 --> 5487.00] There's -[5487.00 --> 5487.16] A -[5487.16 --> 5487.46] Group -[5487.46 --> 5487.66] Of -[5487.66 --> 5488.06] Students -[5488.06 --> 5488.28] Who -[5488.28 --> 5489.00] They're -[5489.00 --> 5489.52] Calling -[5489.52 --> 5489.66] It -[5489.66 --> 5489.76] A -[5489.76 --> 5490.24] Revival -[5490.24 --> 5491.36] Revival -[5491.36 --> 5491.50] In -[5491.50 --> 5491.84] Asbury -[5491.84 --> 5492.26] University -[5492.26 --> 5492.48] And -[5492.48 --> 5492.96] It's -[5492.96 --> 5493.10] A -[5493.10 --> 5493.50] Revival -[5493.50 --> 5493.78] If -[5493.78 --> 5493.88] You -[5493.88 --> 5494.08] Look -[5494.08 --> 5494.24] At -[5494.24 --> 5494.34] It -[5494.34 --> 5494.76] Online -[5494.76 --> 5494.96] That -[5494.96 --> 5495.14] Has -[5495.14 --> 5495.56] Spread -[5495.56 --> 5496.04] To -[5496.04 --> 5496.26] Other -[5496.26 --> 5496.82] Schools -[5496.82 --> 5497.56] I -[5497.56 --> 5497.94] Had -[5497.94 --> 5498.02] A -[5498.02 --> 5498.32] Chance -[5498.32 --> 5498.58] To -[5498.58 --> 5499.16] Look -[5499.16 --> 5499.30] At -[5499.30 --> 5499.54] Some -[5499.54 --> 5500.26] Videos -[5500.26 --> 5500.66] From -[5500.66 --> 5501.08] Trinity -[5501.08 --> 5501.58] Western -[5501.58 --> 5502.24] This -[5502.24 --> 5502.58] Past -[5502.58 --> 5502.80] Week -[5502.80 --> 5502.94] On -[5502.94 --> 5503.28] Friday -[5503.28 --> 5503.46] They -[5503.46 --> 5503.56] Did -[5503.56 --> 5503.68] A -[5503.68 --> 5503.96] Praise -[5503.96 --> 5504.34] Chapel -[5504.34 --> 5504.54] And -[5504.54 --> 5504.66] There -[5504.66 --> 5504.84] Just -[5504.84 --> 5505.08] Seemed -[5505.08 --> 5505.24] To -[5505.24 --> 5505.46] Be -[5505.46 --> 5505.94] Like -[5505.94 --> 5506.06] A -[5506.06 --> 5506.62] Connection -[5506.62 --> 5506.78] Like -[5506.78 --> 5507.14] It -[5507.14 --> 5507.30] Just -[5507.30 --> 5507.62] Seems -[5507.62 --> 5507.80] To -[5507.80 --> 5507.98] Be -[5507.98 --> 5508.22] Like -[5508.22 --> 5508.50] God -[5508.50 --> 5508.64] Is -[5508.64 --> 5508.90] Doing -[5508.90 --> 5509.28] Something -[5509.28 --> 5509.84] Amazing -[5509.84 --> 5510.18] In -[5510.18 --> 5510.34] This -[5510.34 --> 5510.82] Generation -[5510.82 --> 5511.10] Of -[5511.10 --> 5511.44] 20 -[5511.44 --> 5512.16] Somethings -[5512.16 --> 5513.14] That -[5513.14 --> 5513.32] Is -[5513.32 --> 5513.66] Just -[5513.66 --> 5514.84] I -[5514.84 --> 5514.94] Mean -[5514.94 --> 5515.10] For -[5515.10 --> 5515.24] Me -[5515.24 --> 5515.42] It's -[5515.42 --> 5515.64] Blowing -[5515.64 --> 5515.82] My -[5515.82 --> 5516.02] Mind -[5516.02 --> 5516.14] And -[5516.14 --> 5516.24] I -[5516.24 --> 5516.34] Gotta -[5516.34 --> 5516.48] Be -[5516.48 --> 5516.92] Honest -[5516.92 --> 5517.14] Right -[5517.14 --> 5517.28] When -[5517.28 --> 5517.40] I -[5517.40 --> 5517.66] Hear -[5517.66 --> 5518.16] Stories -[5518.16 --> 5518.38] Like -[5518.38 --> 5518.58] This -[5518.58 --> 5518.78] My -[5518.78 --> 5519.28] Default -[5519.28 --> 5519.50] Is -[5519.50 --> 5520.00] Cynicism -[5520.00 --> 5521.72] My -[5521.72 --> 5522.10] Default -[5522.10 --> 5522.28] Is -[5522.28 --> 5522.94] Skepticism -[5522.94 --> 5524.54] That's -[5524.54 --> 5524.82] Probably -[5524.82 --> 5525.06] Not -[5525.06 --> 5525.26] True -[5525.26 --> 5525.44] Or -[5525.44 --> 5525.58] We'll -[5525.58 --> 5525.72] See -[5525.72 --> 5525.84] How -[5525.84 --> 5526.00] That -[5526.00 --> 5526.26] Last -[5526.26 --> 5526.40] So -[5526.40 --> 5526.64] We'll -[5526.64 --> 5526.86] See -[5526.86 --> 5527.10] We'll -[5527.10 --> 5527.28] Wait -[5527.28 --> 5527.58] Until -[5527.58 --> 5527.94] You -[5527.94 --> 5528.00] Know -[5528.00 --> 5528.14] This -[5528.14 --> 5528.44] Pastor -[5528.44 --> 5528.68] Comes -[5528.68 --> 5528.84] Out -[5528.84 --> 5528.92] And -[5528.92 --> 5529.00] It -[5529.00 --> 5529.20] Turns -[5529.20 --> 5529.38] Out -[5529.38 --> 5529.52] He -[5529.52 --> 5529.80] Was -[5529.80 --> 5530.92] Abusive -[5530.92 --> 5533.12] That's -[5533.12 --> 5533.24] Where -[5533.24 --> 5533.52] That's -[5533.52 --> 5533.62] Where -[5533.62 --> 5533.76] My -[5533.76 --> 5533.98] Heart -[5533.98 --> 5534.34] Goes -[5534.34 --> 5535.24] But -[5535.24 --> 5535.34] I -[5535.34 --> 5535.46] Need -[5535.46 --> 5535.60] To -[5535.60 --> 5535.88] Reign -[5535.88 --> 5536.08] That -[5536.08 --> 5536.38] Back -[5536.38 --> 5536.74] Every -[5536.74 --> 5537.10] Single -[5537.10 --> 5537.50] Time -[5537.50 --> 5538.50] Because -[5538.50 --> 5538.70] The -[5538.70 --> 5539.44] Humility -[5539.44 --> 5540.64] Required -[5540.64 --> 5541.36] And -[5541.36 --> 5541.56] For -[5541.56 --> 5541.86] God -[5541.86 --> 5542.04] At -[5542.04 --> 5542.24] Work -[5542.24 --> 5542.40] In -[5542.40 --> 5542.50] The -[5542.50 --> 5542.70] World -[5542.70 --> 5542.88] And -[5542.88 --> 5543.40] I -[5543.40 --> 5543.50] Was -[5543.50 --> 5543.76] Listening -[5543.76 --> 5544.06] To -[5544.06 --> 5545.00] A -[5545.00 --> 5545.30] Student -[5545.30 --> 5545.54] Who -[5545.54 --> 5545.70] Was -[5545.70 --> 5545.96] Part -[5545.96 --> 5546.10] Of -[5546.10 --> 5546.36] The -[5546.36 --> 5547.82] Asbury -[5547.82 --> 5548.30] Worship -[5548.30 --> 5548.70] Team -[5548.70 --> 5549.18] From -[5549.18 --> 5549.34] That -[5549.34 --> 5549.74] Chapel -[5549.74 --> 5550.38] Like -[5550.38 --> 5550.78] 13 -[5550.78 --> 5551.04] Days -[5551.04 --> 5551.30] Ago -[5551.30 --> 5551.62] Now -[5551.62 --> 5553.44] And -[5553.44 --> 5553.68] She -[5553.68 --> 5554.08] Was -[5554.08 --> 5554.64] Reflecting -[5554.64 --> 5554.76] On -[5554.76 --> 5554.88] Her -[5554.88 --> 5555.46] Experience -[5555.46 --> 5556.08] At -[5556.08 --> 5556.24] That -[5556.24 --> 5556.50] Time -[5556.50 --> 5556.66] Over -[5556.66 --> 5556.78] The -[5556.78 --> 5557.08] Past -[5557.08 --> 5557.30] 10 -[5557.30 --> 5557.60] Days -[5557.60 --> 5558.32] And -[5558.32 --> 5558.44] She -[5558.44 --> 5558.64] Said -[5558.64 --> 5558.78] The -[5558.78 --> 5559.30] Amazing -[5559.30 --> 5559.74] Thing -[5559.74 --> 5560.12] The -[5560.12 --> 5560.62] Amazing -[5560.62 --> 5561.00] Thing -[5561.00 --> 5561.20] About -[5561.20 --> 5561.60] Everything -[5561.60 --> 5561.82] That -[5561.82 --> 5561.94] I -[5561.94 --> 5562.04] Am -[5562.04 --> 5562.32] Seeing -[5562.32 --> 5562.74] Is -[5562.74 --> 5562.92] The -[5562.92 --> 5563.68] Humility -[5563.68 --> 5564.38] Of -[5564.38 --> 5564.56] All -[5564.56 --> 5564.78] Those -[5564.78 --> 5565.04] People -[5565.04 --> 5565.22] Who -[5565.22 --> 5565.32] Are -[5565.32 --> 5565.60] Coming -[5565.60 --> 5565.88] In -[5565.88 --> 5566.18] And -[5566.18 --> 5566.28] Who -[5566.28 --> 5566.40] Are -[5566.40 --> 5566.96] Worshiping -[5566.96 --> 5567.28] And -[5567.28 --> 5567.38] Who -[5567.38 --> 5567.48] Are -[5567.48 --> 5567.80] Praising -[5567.80 --> 5568.12] God -[5568.12 --> 5568.62] The -[5568.62 --> 5569.30] Humility -[5569.30 --> 5569.76] Is -[5569.76 --> 5570.44] Compelling -[5570.44 --> 5570.94] To -[5570.94 --> 5571.16] Me -[5571.16 --> 5572.50] The -[5572.50 --> 5573.08] President -[5573.08 --> 5573.32] Of -[5573.32 --> 5573.66] Asbury -[5573.66 --> 5574.12] Released -[5574.12 --> 5574.32] A -[5574.32 --> 5574.68] Statement -[5574.68 --> 5574.82] And -[5574.82 --> 5574.88] He -[5574.88 --> 5574.98] Was -[5574.98 --> 5575.20] Talking -[5575.20 --> 5575.44] About -[5575.44 --> 5575.84] How -[5575.84 --> 5576.30] A -[5576.30 --> 5576.66] Worship -[5576.66 --> 5576.96] Leader -[5576.96 --> 5577.16] A -[5577.16 --> 5577.64] Famous -[5577.64 --> 5578.30] Named -[5578.30 --> 5578.74] Worship -[5578.74 --> 5579.02] Leader -[5579.02 --> 5579.20] With -[5579.20 --> 5579.32] A -[5579.32 --> 5579.62] Record -[5579.62 --> 5580.50] Deal -[5580.50 --> 5580.70] And -[5580.70 --> 5581.00] Everything -[5581.00 --> 5581.36] Called -[5581.36 --> 5581.50] Them -[5581.50 --> 5581.66] Up -[5581.66 --> 5581.80] And -[5581.80 --> 5581.92] Said -[5581.92 --> 5582.14] Hey -[5582.14 --> 5582.26] I -[5582.26 --> 5582.34] I -[5582.34 --> 5582.48] In -[5582.48 --> 5582.58] The -[5582.58 --> 5582.84] Area -[5582.84 --> 5583.04] I -[5583.04 --> 5583.20] Can -[5583.20 --> 5583.54] Come -[5583.54 --> 5583.98] And -[5583.98 --> 5584.22] Lead -[5584.22 --> 5584.46] This -[5584.46 --> 5584.60] I -[5584.60 --> 5584.76] Can -[5584.76 --> 5584.94] Come -[5584.94 --> 5585.06] And -[5585.06 --> 5585.16] Be -[5585.16 --> 5585.44] Part -[5585.44 --> 5585.54] Of -[5585.54 --> 5585.68] That -[5585.68 --> 5586.04] And -[5586.04 --> 5586.12] The -[5586.12 --> 5586.42] President -[5586.42 --> 5586.60] Of -[5586.60 --> 5586.68] The -[5586.68 --> 5587.04] University -[5587.04 --> 5587.34] Said -[5587.34 --> 5587.84] Nope -[5587.84 --> 5588.70] Our -[5588.70 --> 5589.02] Students -[5589.02 --> 5589.28] Got -[5589.28 --> 5589.42] It -[5589.42 --> 5590.66] We -[5590.66 --> 5590.82] Don't -[5590.82 --> 5591.04] Need -[5591.04 --> 5591.24] You -[5591.24 --> 5592.76] They -[5592.76 --> 5592.94] Can -[5592.94 --> 5593.24] Handle -[5593.24 --> 5593.54] It -[5593.54 --> 5594.78] There's -[5594.78 --> 5594.90] This -[5594.90 --> 5595.56] Beautiful -[5595.56 --> 5596.28] Picture -[5596.28 --> 5596.76] Of -[5596.76 --> 5597.06] God -[5597.06 --> 5597.20] At -[5597.20 --> 5597.38] Work -[5597.38 --> 5597.50] In -[5597.50 --> 5597.62] The -[5597.62 --> 5597.90] World -[5597.90 --> 5598.28] And -[5598.28 --> 5599.04] Maybe -[5599.04 --> 5599.24] It's -[5599.24 --> 5599.34] A -[5599.34 --> 5599.74] Revival -[5599.74 --> 5599.94] And -[5599.94 --> 5600.12] Maybe -[5600.12 --> 5600.26] It's -[5600.26 --> 5600.36] Going -[5600.36 --> 5600.46] To -[5600.46 --> 5600.78] Spread -[5600.78 --> 5600.96] And -[5600.96 --> 5601.16] Maybe -[5601.16 --> 5601.38] There's -[5601.38 --> 5601.60] Something -[5601.60 --> 5601.78] Of -[5601.78 --> 5601.88] That -[5601.88 --> 5602.10] Here -[5602.10 --> 5602.32] This -[5602.32 --> 5602.56] Morning -[5602.56 --> 5602.82] Because -[5602.82 --> 5603.00] Even -[5603.00 --> 5603.14] As -[5603.14 --> 5603.28] We -[5603.28 --> 5603.42] Were -[5603.42 --> 5603.88] Worshiping -[5603.88 --> 5604.30] I -[5604.30 --> 5604.44] Was -[5604.44 --> 5604.60] Like -[5604.60 --> 5604.78] Oh -[5604.78 --> 5604.98] Man -[5604.98 --> 5605.22] God -[5605.22 --> 5605.36] Is -[5605.36 --> 5605.58] Here -[5605.58 --> 5607.04] I -[5607.04 --> 5607.12] Don't -[5607.12 --> 5607.20] Know -[5607.20 --> 5607.30] If -[5607.30 --> 5607.38] You -[5607.38 --> 5607.60] Felt -[5607.60 --> 5607.78] It -[5607.78 --> 5608.46] Maybe -[5608.46 --> 5608.60] Your -[5608.60 --> 5608.88] Default -[5608.88 --> 5609.02] Is -[5609.02 --> 5609.38] Cynicism -[5609.38 --> 5610.46] But -[5610.46 --> 5610.58] I -[5610.58 --> 5610.74] Did -[5610.74 --> 5613.46] And -[5613.46 --> 5613.58] What -[5613.58 --> 5613.70] I'm -[5613.70 --> 5614.12] Seeing -[5614.12 --> 5614.54] And -[5614.54 --> 5615.14] Hearing -[5615.14 --> 5615.46] In -[5615.46 --> 5616.00] All -[5616.00 --> 5616.24] Of -[5616.24 --> 5616.62] This -[5616.62 --> 5617.44] Is -[5617.44 --> 5617.60] A -[5617.60 --> 5618.44] Revival -[5618.44 --> 5618.64] That -[5618.64 --> 5618.76] We -[5618.76 --> 5619.00] Long -[5619.00 --> 5619.22] For -[5619.22 --> 5619.42] The -[5619.42 --> 5619.98] Changing -[5619.98 --> 5620.32] Of -[5620.32 --> 5620.50] The -[5620.50 --> 5620.88] World -[5620.88 --> 5621.30] That -[5621.30 --> 5621.44] We -[5621.44 --> 5621.64] Want -[5621.64 --> 5621.76] To -[5621.76 --> 5622.20] See -[5622.20 --> 5622.92] Happen -[5622.92 --> 5623.94] Starts -[5623.94 --> 5624.48] With -[5624.48 --> 5625.48] Christian -[5625.48 --> 5626.68] Humility -[5626.68 --> 5628.98] Starts -[5628.98 --> 5629.10] With -[5629.10 --> 5629.22] A -[5629.22 --> 5630.02] Recognition -[5630.02 --> 5631.46] There -[5631.46 --> 5631.58] Is -[5631.58 --> 5631.78] Not -[5631.78 --> 5632.24] One -[5632.24 --> 5633.24] Who -[5633.24 --> 5633.64] Deserves -[5633.64 --> 5634.06] This -[5634.06 --> 5635.62] Starts -[5635.62 --> 5635.74] With -[5635.74 --> 5635.86] The -[5635.86 --> 5636.08] Truth -[5636.08 --> 5636.26] That -[5636.26 --> 5636.38] There -[5636.38 --> 5636.52] Is -[5636.52 --> 5636.74] No -[5636.74 --> 5637.08] One -[5637.08 --> 5637.66] Righteous -[5637.66 --> 5637.92] Not -[5637.92 --> 5638.18] Even -[5638.18 --> 5638.54] One -[5638.54 --> 5639.04] There's -[5639.04 --> 5639.22] No -[5639.22 --> 5639.38] One -[5639.38 --> 5639.50] Who -[5639.50 --> 5640.06] Understands -[5640.06 --> 5640.20] There's -[5640.20 --> 5640.36] No -[5640.36 --> 5640.58] One -[5640.58 --> 5640.74] Who -[5640.74 --> 5641.00] Seeks -[5641.00 --> 5641.34] God -[5641.34 --> 5641.78] That -[5641.78 --> 5641.98] We've -[5641.98 --> 5642.20] All -[5642.20 --> 5642.52] Turned -[5642.52 --> 5642.84] Away -[5642.84 --> 5643.30] They've -[5643.30 --> 5643.54] All -[5643.54 --> 5644.04] Become -[5644.04 --> 5644.58] Worthless -[5644.58 --> 5644.82] There's -[5644.82 --> 5645.16] No -[5645.16 --> 5645.46] One -[5645.46 --> 5645.68] Who -[5645.68 --> 5646.00] Does -[5646.00 --> 5646.38] Good -[5646.38 --> 5646.90] Not -[5646.90 --> 5647.22] Even -[5647.22 --> 5647.62] One -[5647.62 --> 5648.72] Especially -[5648.72 --> 5649.96] Me -[5649.96 --> 5652.40] And -[5652.40 --> 5652.56] It's -[5652.56 --> 5652.76] The -[5652.76 --> 5653.40] Humility -[5653.40 --> 5653.86] Of -[5653.86 --> 5654.62] This -[5654.62 --> 5655.86] Realization -[5655.86 --> 5656.26] That -[5656.26 --> 5656.42] Has -[5656.42 --> 5656.60] The -[5656.60 --> 5657.16] Power -[5657.16 --> 5657.72] To -[5657.72 --> 5658.26] Change -[5658.26 --> 5658.50] The -[5658.50 --> 5658.86] World -[5658.86 --> 5660.04] But -[5660.04 --> 5660.16] I -[5660.16 --> 5660.52] Believe -[5660.52 --> 5660.72] What -[5660.72 --> 5660.86] We -[5660.86 --> 5661.04] Will -[5661.04 --> 5661.70] See -[5662.24 --> 5662.74] Is -[5662.74 --> 5663.00] Not -[5663.00 --> 5663.82] Great -[5663.82 --> 5664.28] Leaders -[5664.28 --> 5664.72] Rising -[5664.72 --> 5665.00] Up -[5665.00 --> 5665.16] To -[5665.16 --> 5665.56] Transform -[5665.56 --> 5665.74] The -[5665.74 --> 5665.88] World -[5665.88 --> 5666.10] Although -[5666.10 --> 5666.24] I -[5666.24 --> 5666.44] Hope -[5666.44 --> 5666.58] And -[5666.58 --> 5666.74] Pray -[5666.74 --> 5666.92] That -[5666.92 --> 5667.06] That -[5667.06 --> 5667.46] Happens -[5667.46 --> 5667.62] But -[5667.62 --> 5667.76] We -[5667.76 --> 5667.94] Will -[5667.94 --> 5668.24] See -[5668.24 --> 5668.46] That -[5668.46 --> 5668.56] It -[5668.56 --> 5668.72] Is -[5668.72 --> 5669.78] Faithfulness -[5669.78 --> 5670.20] In -[5670.20 --> 5670.40] The -[5670.40 --> 5670.74] Small -[5670.74 --> 5671.42] Things -[5671.42 --> 5673.78] That -[5673.78 --> 5674.08] Changes -[5674.08 --> 5674.28] The -[5674.28 --> 5674.56] World -[5674.56 --> 5676.14] That -[5676.14 --> 5676.22] It -[5676.22 --> 5676.38] Is -[5676.38 --> 5677.04] Faithfulness -[5677.04 --> 5678.10] In -[5678.10 --> 5678.40] How -[5678.40 --> 5678.74] You -[5678.74 --> 5679.24] Live -[5679.24 --> 5679.72] As -[5679.72 --> 5680.42] A -[5680.42 --> 5681.16] Grade -[5681.16 --> 5681.70] 12 -[5681.70 --> 5682.48] AP -[5682.48 --> 5683.10] English -[5683.10 --> 5683.90] Student -[5683.90 --> 5685.66] Faithfulness -[5685.66 --> 5685.98] In -[5685.98 --> 5686.14] How -[5686.14 --> 5686.32] You -[5686.32 --> 5686.70] Live -[5686.70 --> 5686.94] As -[5686.94 --> 5687.12] A -[5687.12 --> 5688.10] Public -[5688.10 --> 5688.90] Servant -[5688.90 --> 5689.84] It -[5689.84 --> 5690.00] Is -[5690.00 --> 5690.66] Faithfulness -[5690.66 --> 5691.22] In -[5691.22 --> 5691.44] The -[5691.44 --> 5692.00] Small -[5692.00 --> 5692.60] Things -[5692.60 --> 5693.20] That -[5693.20 --> 5693.36] Will -[5693.36 --> 5693.58] Have -[5693.58 --> 5693.80] The -[5693.80 --> 5694.38] Impact -[5694.38 --> 5694.94] On -[5694.94 --> 5695.06] The -[5695.06 --> 5695.28] World -[5695.28 --> 5695.46] That -[5695.46 --> 5695.58] We -[5695.58 --> 5695.80] Long -[5695.80 --> 5695.94] To -[5695.94 --> 5696.14] See -[5696.14 --> 5696.48] Because -[5696.48 --> 5696.66] It -[5696.66 --> 5696.80] Is -[5696.80 --> 5697.36] Faithfulness -[5697.36 --> 5697.72] In -[5697.72 --> 5697.88] The -[5697.88 --> 5698.16] Small -[5698.16 --> 5698.58] Things -[5698.58 --> 5699.12] By -[5699.12 --> 5699.36] Which -[5699.36 --> 5699.76] God -[5699.76 --> 5700.82] Transforms -[5700.82 --> 5701.50] You -[5701.50 --> 5703.34] Your -[5703.34 --> 5703.72] Heart -[5703.72 --> 5705.06] Your -[5705.06 --> 5705.48] Life -[5705.48 --> 5707.52] And -[5707.52 --> 5707.54] And -[5707.54 --> 5707.56] And -[5707.56 --> 5707.62] It -[5707.62 --> 5707.78] Is -[5707.78 --> 5707.90] A -[5707.90 --> 5708.52] Transformed -[5708.52 --> 5709.00] You -[5709.00 --> 5710.32] That -[5710.32 --> 5710.56] Goes -[5710.56 --> 5710.78] Out -[5710.78 --> 5711.02] From -[5711.02 --> 5711.38] Here -[5711.38 --> 5714.60] In -[5714.60 --> 5714.68] The -[5714.68 --> 5715.00] Power -[5715.00 --> 5715.16] Of -[5715.16 --> 5715.26] The -[5715.26 --> 5715.66] Gospel -[5715.66 --> 5717.06] To -[5717.06 --> 5717.40] Reveal -[5717.40 --> 5717.56] The -[5717.56 --> 5717.78] Kingdom -[5717.78 --> 5718.20] Come -[5718.20 --> 5718.46] And -[5718.46 --> 5718.58] The -[5718.58 --> 5718.82] Kingdom -[5718.82 --> 5719.22] Coming -[5719.22 --> 5719.82] It -[5719.82 --> 5719.94] Is -[5719.94 --> 5720.06] A -[5720.06 --> 5720.64] Transformed -[5720.64 --> 5721.08] You -[5721.08 --> 5721.66] That -[5721.66 --> 5721.84] Goes -[5721.84 --> 5722.10] Out -[5722.10 --> 5722.52] Into -[5722.52 --> 5722.84] The -[5722.84 --> 5723.22] World -[5723.22 --> 5724.12] With -[5724.12 --> 5724.70] Humility -[5724.70 --> 5725.46] And -[5725.46 --> 5726.10] Gentleness -[5726.10 --> 5726.58] And -[5726.58 --> 5727.20] Respect -[5727.20 --> 5728.36] Through -[5728.36 --> 5728.82] Whom -[5728.82 --> 5729.46] God -[5729.46 --> 5730.00] Will -[5730.00 --> 5730.28] Make -[5730.28 --> 5730.86] Himself -[5730.86 --> 5731.82] Known -[5731.82 --> 5733.78] If -[5733.78 --> 5733.98] Like -[5733.98 --> 5734.14] Me -[5734.14 --> 5734.34] You -[5734.34 --> 5734.58] Have -[5734.58 --> 5734.80] Been -[5734.80 --> 5735.26] Praying -[5735.26 --> 5735.66] For -[5735.66 --> 5736.52] Revival -[5736.52 --> 5737.24] It -[5737.24 --> 5737.64] Is -[5737.64 --> 5738.78] Humility -[5738.78 --> 5740.66] It -[5740.66 --> 5740.82] Is -[5740.82 --> 5741.34] Faithfulness -[5741.34 --> 5741.62] In -[5741.62 --> 5741.74] The -[5741.74 --> 5741.98] Small -[5741.98 --> 5742.52] Things -[5742.52 --> 5743.18] That -[5743.18 --> 5743.30] Will -[5743.30 --> 5743.48] See -[5743.48 --> 5743.68] The -[5743.68 --> 5743.98] World -[5743.98 --> 5744.62] Changed -[5744.62 --> 5744.76] And -[5744.76 --> 5744.92] That -[5744.92 --> 5745.76] Starts -[5745.76 --> 5746.42] With -[5746.42 --> 5746.74] The -[5746.74 --> 5747.30] Truth -[5747.30 --> 5748.16] Of -[5748.16 --> 5748.38] Who -[5748.38 --> 5748.60] We -[5748.60 --> 5748.94] Are -[5748.94 --> 5749.92] The -[5749.92 --> 5750.30] Truth -[5750.30 --> 5750.56] Of -[5750.56 --> 5751.04] God's -[5751.04 --> 5751.56] Revelation -[5751.56 --> 5752.24] To -[5752.24 --> 5752.68] Us -[5752.68 --> 5753.42] Deep -[5753.42 --> 5754.12] In -[5754.12 --> 5754.92] Our -[5754.92 --> 5755.86] Hearts -[5755.86 --> 5757.78] That -[5757.78 --> 5757.88] We -[5757.88 --> 5758.10] Might -[5758.10 --> 5758.56] Live -[5758.56 --> 5759.44] For -[5759.44 --> 5759.68] His -[5759.68 --> 5760.08] Glory -[5760.08 --> 5761.04] In -[5761.04 --> 5761.48] Everything -[5761.48 --> 5762.34] Amen -[5762.34 --> 5763.68] Let's -[5763.68 --> 5763.84] Pray -[5763.84 --> 5764.20] Together -[5764.20 --> 5768.26] Lord -[5768.26 --> 5768.38] Our -[5768.38 --> 5768.54] God -[5768.54 --> 5768.82] We -[5768.82 --> 5769.40] See -[5769.40 --> 5769.88] You -[5769.88 --> 5770.24] At -[5770.24 --> 5770.72] Work -[5770.72 --> 5771.78] We -[5771.78 --> 5772.10] Know -[5772.10 --> 5772.38] That -[5772.38 --> 5772.56] You -[5772.56 --> 5772.78] Are -[5772.78 --> 5773.02] At -[5773.02 --> 5773.26] Work -[5773.26 --> 5773.52] And -[5773.52 --> 5773.84] So -[5773.84 --> 5774.86] For -[5774.86 --> 5774.98] The -[5774.98 --> 5775.56] Temptation -[5775.56 --> 5776.00] Of -[5776.00 --> 5776.78] Cynicism -[5776.78 --> 5778.20] For -[5778.20 --> 5778.34] The -[5778.34 --> 5778.88] Temptation -[5778.88 --> 5779.16] To -[5779.16 --> 5779.52] Fall -[5779.52 --> 5779.90] Into -[5779.90 --> 5781.06] Deep -[5781.06 --> 5781.72] And -[5781.72 --> 5782.84] Untrusting -[5782.84 --> 5783.80] Skepticism -[5783.80 --> 5784.38] I -[5784.38 --> 5784.74] Pray -[5784.74 --> 5785.40] Forgive -[5785.40 --> 5785.80] Us -[5785.80 --> 5786.28] And -[5786.28 --> 5786.88] Hold -[5786.88 --> 5787.20] It -[5787.20 --> 5787.50] At -[5787.50 --> 5787.74] Bay -[5787.74 --> 5789.78] For -[5789.78 --> 5789.90] The -[5789.90 --> 5790.24] Power -[5790.24 --> 5790.66] To -[5790.66 --> 5790.96] See -[5790.96 --> 5791.16] You -[5791.16 --> 5791.34] At -[5791.34 --> 5791.56] Work -[5791.56 --> 5791.72] In -[5791.72 --> 5791.84] The -[5791.84 --> 5792.02] World -[5792.02 --> 5792.30] Give -[5792.30 --> 5792.48] Us -[5792.48 --> 5792.68] New -[5792.68 --> 5793.20] Eyes -[5793.20 --> 5793.50] And -[5793.50 --> 5793.76] Give -[5793.76 --> 5794.00] Us -[5794.00 --> 5794.32] New -[5794.32 --> 5794.78] Hearts -[5794.78 --> 5795.28] That -[5795.28 --> 5795.40] We -[5795.40 --> 5795.62] Might -[5795.62 --> 5795.94] Know -[5795.94 --> 5796.32] You -[5796.32 --> 5796.78] Are -[5796.78 --> 5797.54] Here -[5797.54 --> 5798.06] Present -[5798.06 --> 5798.48] And -[5798.48 --> 5798.66] That -[5798.66 --> 5798.86] You -[5798.86 --> 5799.44] Go -[5799.44 --> 5800.00] With -[5800.00 --> 5800.38] Us -[5800.38 --> 5800.68] In -[5800.68 --> 5801.04] Jesus -[5801.04 --> 5801.76] Name -[5801.76 --> 5803.94] We -[5803.94 --> 5804.20] Pray -[5804.20 --> 5804.46] Lord -[5804.46 --> 5804.78] God -[5804.78 --> 5807.20] Inspire -[5807.20 --> 5807.72] Us -[5807.72 --> 5808.08] In -[5808.08 --> 5808.34] Our -[5808.34 --> 5808.86] Worship -[5808.86 --> 5810.16] Inspire -[5810.16 --> 5810.50] Us -[5810.50 --> 5810.78] In -[5810.78 --> 5811.00] Our -[5811.00 --> 5811.54] Fellowship -[5811.54 --> 5812.10] Inspire -[5812.10 --> 5812.40] Us -[5812.40 --> 5812.66] In -[5812.66 --> 5812.88] Our -[5812.88 --> 5813.48] Devotion -[5813.48 --> 5814.66] Inspire -[5814.66 --> 5815.26] Us -[5815.26 --> 5815.56] To -[5815.56 --> 5815.74] Be -[5815.74 --> 5816.46] Faithful -[5816.46 --> 5817.06] In -[5817.06 --> 5817.30] The -[5817.30 --> 5817.60] Small -[5817.60 --> 5818.08] Things -[5818.08 --> 5822.14] So -[5822.14 --> 5822.28] That -[5822.28 --> 5822.42] We -[5822.42 --> 5822.68] Might -[5822.68 --> 5823.12] See -[5823.12 --> 5824.00] Revival -[5824.00 --> 5824.90] In -[5824.90 --> 5825.10] This -[5825.10 --> 5825.40] Land -[5825.40 --> 5826.10] We -[5826.10 --> 5826.34] Might -[5826.34 --> 5826.68] See -[5826.68 --> 5827.60] Revival -[5827.60 --> 5827.88] In -[5827.88 --> 5827.98] A -[5827.98 --> 5828.12] New -[5828.12 --> 5828.74] Generation -[5828.74 --> 5829.44] Of -[5829.44 --> 5829.98] Christians -[5829.98 --> 5832.18] Who -[5832.18 --> 5832.50] Aren't -[5832.50 --> 5833.18] Deflecting -[5833.18 --> 5833.36] With -[5833.36 --> 5833.82] Questions -[5833.82 --> 5834.26] About -[5834.26 --> 5835.24] With -[5835.24 --> 5835.46] What -[5835.46 --> 5835.74] About -[5835.74 --> 5836.18] Isms -[5836.18 --> 5836.78] But -[5836.78 --> 5836.90] Who -[5836.90 --> 5837.06] Are -[5837.06 --> 5837.72] Accepting -[5837.72 --> 5839.38] Faith -[5839.38 --> 5839.96] And -[5839.96 --> 5840.08] The -[5840.08 --> 5840.92] Responsibilities -[5840.92 --> 5841.92] Of -[5841.92 --> 5842.62] Faithfulness -[5842.62 --> 5845.62] Move -[5845.62 --> 5846.04] In -[5846.04 --> 5846.76] Power -[5846.76 --> 5847.22] In -[5847.22 --> 5847.84] Jesus -[5847.84 --> 5848.94] Name -[5848.94 --> 5850.14] All -[5850.14 --> 5850.42] God's -[5850.42 --> 5850.58] People -[5850.58 --> 5850.88] Say -[5850.88 --> 5852.22] Amen -[5870.92 --> 5875.52] Amen -[5875.56 --> 5877.22] сч spelling -[5877.22 --> 5880.88] Deep -[5880.88 --> 5884.00] S Ig -[5886.52 --> 5887.94] S NCAA -[5887.94 --> 5888.04] Amen -[5888.92 --> 5889.12] Bless -[5889.12 --> 5890.32] Without -[5890.32 --> 5891.24] May -[5891.24 --> 5895.38] Umm -[5895.38 --> 5896.36] Love -[5896.36 --> 5898.14] Save -[5898.14 --> 5899.74] And -[5899.74 --> 5904.44] Oh, dear, I fall apart. -[5904.44 --> 5912.22] You're the one that guides my heart. -[5914.82 --> 5923.04] Lord, I need you, Lord, I need you. -[5923.54 --> 5929.44] Every hour I need you. -[5929.74 --> 5935.74] I fall apart, my righteousness. -[5936.74 --> 5940.74] Lord, I need you. -[5945.74 --> 5951.74] Where sin runs deep, your grace is full. -[5951.74 --> 5958.74] Every sin's power is where you are. -[5959.74 --> 5965.74] Where you are, Lord, I am free. -[5965.74 --> 5971.74] Holy mess is Christ in me. -[5971.74 --> 5978.74] Where you are, Lord, I am free. -[5978.74 --> 5985.74] All in me, all in me. -[5985.74 --> 5991.74] Lord, I need you. -[5991.74 --> 5995.74] Oh, I need you. -[5995.74 --> 6001.74] Every hour I need you. -[6001.74 --> 6008.74] My one defense, my righteousness. -[6008.74 --> 6014.74] Oh, God, how I need you. -[6014.74 --> 6015.74] I need you. -[6015.74 --> 6016.74] I need you. -[6016.74 --> 6017.74] I need you. -[6017.74 --> 6018.74] I need you. -[6018.74 --> 6019.74] I need you. -[6019.74 --> 6021.74] I need you. -[6021.74 --> 6022.74] I need you. -[6022.74 --> 6023.74] I need you. -[6023.74 --> 6024.74] I need you. -[6024.74 --> 6025.74] I need you. -[6025.74 --> 6026.74] I need you. -[6026.74 --> 6027.74] I need you. -[6027.74 --> 6028.74] I need you. -[6028.74 --> 6029.74] I need you. -[6029.74 --> 6030.74] I need you. -[6030.74 --> 6032.74] I need you. -[6032.74 --> 6038.74] Jesus, you're my hope. -[6038.74 --> 6041.56] And I cannot stand upon all. -[6043.96 --> 6048.32] Jesus, you're my hope and take. -[6051.88 --> 6054.76] Lord, I need you. -[6055.04 --> 6058.82] Oh, I need you. -[6058.82 --> 6065.16] For every hour I need you. -[6065.16 --> 6071.38] I need my defense, my righteousness. -[6072.22 --> 6076.34] Oh God, how I need you. -[6078.02 --> 6080.34] I need you. -[6080.58 --> 6084.52] Oh, I need you. -[6084.52 --> 6090.52] For every hour I need you. -[6090.52 --> 6097.48] My one defense, my righteousness. -[6098.22 --> 6102.52] Oh God, how I need you. -[6104.52 --> 6110.52] My one defense, my righteousness. -[6110.52 --> 6117.34] Oh God, how I need you. -[6117.34 --> 6147.32] Oh God, how I need you. -[6147.32 --> 6148.32] I need you. -[6148.32 --> 6149.32] I need you. -[6149.32 --> 6151.38] To lift it up to the Lord. -[6152.54 --> 6154.34] And so pray together. -[6154.88 --> 6157.04] Celebrate the goodness of God together. -[6157.16 --> 6160.96] Whether it's over coffee in the back or up here with someone with a tag on or not. -[6161.94 --> 6165.90] We come to God who has come to us in worship. -[6166.06 --> 6167.78] And we go with this God. -[6167.92 --> 6170.66] And so receive his blessing. -[6170.66 --> 6174.08] Lord bless you. -[6174.66 --> 6175.66] And keep you. -[6176.66 --> 6180.84] Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[6181.66 --> 6187.56] The Lord turn his face towards you and give you his peace. -[6187.56 --> 6189.50] Amen. -[6189.56 --> 6189.64] Amen. -[6189.64 --> 6191.84] Well LED marks made in course -[6191.84 --> 6194.46] Rudyzel -[6204.30 --> 6209.60] Find a veil -[6209.60 --> 6212.18] To see if Earth was me -[6212.18 --> 6216.18] Sengthen to Heaven and never go away -[6216.18 --> 6223.06] At the end of the age when the earth is gone, we'll gather nations before you. -[6223.82 --> 6230.24] When the eyes of all men still be fixed on the land of us crucified. -[6231.24 --> 6238.24] With wisdom and mercy and justice who reign at your Father's side. -[6239.16 --> 6243.74] And when the angels will cry, they'll obey. -[6246.18 --> 6253.18] With wisdom and mercy and justice who reign at your Father's side. -[6253.18 --> 6259.18] And when the angels will cry, they'll obey. -[6261.68 --> 6265.18] I will hear the longings and the glory of God. -[6265.18 --> 6272.18] I will hear the longings and the glory of God. -[6272.18 --> 6277.18] There's a shield in our men and a sword in our side. -[6277.18 --> 6280.82] There's a fire in our spirits that cannot be to God. -[6281.18 --> 6284.18] There's a water as well as the glory we have found. -[6285.18 --> 6287.18] With nations who gather in war. -[6287.18 --> 6295.18] And the years will all get thee to the ear of the Lamb who was truly and one. -[6296.18 --> 6302.18] And the Savior to Him and was raised up to the rain and His father's side. -[6302.18 --> 6303.18] And the angels will cry, they'll obey. -[6303.18 --> 6307.18] And the angels will cry, they'll obey. -[6307.18 --> 6308.18] I will obey. -[6308.18 --> 6309.18] And the angels will cry, they'll obey. -[6309.18 --> 6310.18] And the angels will cry, they'll obey. -[6310.18 --> 6311.18] I will obey. -[6311.18 --> 6312.18] I will obey. -[6312.18 --> 6313.18] If nothing else. -[6313.18 --> 6314.18] I will obey. -[6314.18 --> 6315.18] I Will obey. -[6315.18 --> 6316.18] I will obey. -[6316.18 --> 6317.18] I will obey. -[6317.18 --> 6318.18] I will obey. -[6318.18 --> 6322.18] I will obey. -[6322.18 --> 6330.18] I will obey. -[6330.18 --> 6334.18] I will obey. -[6334.18 --> 6335.18] I will obey. -[6335.18 --> 6338.18] I will obey. -[6338.18 --> 6339.18] And the angels will cry, they'll obey. -[6339.18 --> 6351.48] Holy night, the dear and dear with heart, you shall win. -[6351.48 --> 6359.88] Let the people be at the Lord of all, the people be at the Lord of all. -[6369.18 --> 6399.16] Let the people be at the Lord of all, the people be at the Lord of all. -[6399.18 --> 6429.16] Let the people be at the Lord of all, the people be at the Lord of all. -[6429.18 --> 6431.18] Let the people be at the Lord of all. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - February 20, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - February 20, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3248d00dc2523c42470065c1e10bf175d32ab8ee..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - February 20, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,105 +0,0 @@ -• Worship singing -• Prayer for strength and hope -• Reflection on God's character and promises -• Announcements about COVID-19 policies and community updates -• Request to join the church family prayer rotation and relaunch the prayer team ministry -• Prayer team available during service -• Coldest Night of the Year event on February 26th, sign-ups and details through Nikki -• Update on team fundraising goal -• Worship song "Blessed" sung by congregation -• Call to worship and praise God with every breath and action -• The speaker leads a worship service and prays for God to renew their sense of awe and love -• Psalm 139 verse 23 is referenced as a guide to seeking God's presence and understanding one's heart -• The importance of recognizing and surrendering distractions and affections that take God's rightful place in the heart -• Prayer requests include creating a clean heart, restoring joy of salvation, and granting a willing spirit -• The beauty and glory of Jesus Christ is praised through hymns and prayer -• Reframe Ministries' mission and impact -• Changes in media over the years and adapting to new technology -• Global reach of Reframe Ministries through various channels -• Request for volunteers to pray for people who have not yet heard the gospel -• Financial giving for budget and Resonate Global Missions -• Personal prayers and reflections on spiritual dependence -• Children's game with clues about a person -• Discussion of a game where the speaker provides clues to guess a character or person -• Children's worship time discussing Jesus and his disciples, specifically one clue about bread and fish -• Congregational prayer led by John, a pastoral elder, sharing personal experience with grief and loss -• Call for support and prayer for each other in times of challenge and celebration -• Praying for God's presence and guidance in daily life -• Asking for strength and wisdom during challenging times (COVID) -• Praying for specific individuals (Matt, Emily, Adam, Rachel, Jared, Allison, Judy, Diane, Emma) -• Requesting healing touch for those struggling -• Praying for the church's involvement in a community event -• Seeking God's guidance for various ministries within the church -• Asking for blessings on worship and prayer requests -• Introducing a new Bible reading from Exodus 13-14 -• The speaker shares a personal experience with their father's job at a fire simulation facility -• A massive column of fire was simulated to test emergency response procedures -• The speaker draws a connection between the pillar of fire and the biblical story in Exodus 13:20-14:31 -• God leads the Israelites through a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night, guiding them out of Egypt -• Pharaoh pursues the Israelites with his chariots and army, but God will fight for them and bring deliverance -• Moses encourages the Israelites to stand firm and trust in God's plan -• The Israelites crossed the Red Sea on dry ground with a wall of water on either side. -• God parted the sea, allowing the Israelites to escape from the Egyptians. -• The Egyptians pursued the Israelites into the sea and were destroyed by the returning waters. -• God's love for his people is based on his promises to them, not their worthiness. -• God guides his people through a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. -• The pillar of cloud moves behind the Israelites to guide and guard them -• God's role as a guide and guardian is emphasized throughout the story -• Being a disciple of Jesus means following his lead and doing what he commands -• Christianity is not about changing behaviors, but about who God is and what he has done -• The order of operations in Christianity matters: God's actions precede human responses -• God's ultimate goal is to gain glory for himself through his actions, including hardening Pharaoh's heart -• The Israelites are trapped between the Egyptian army and the sea, leading to anxiety and terror -• They shift their anxiety from God's presence to Moses as the source of trouble -• They are willfully ignorant of God's continued presence with them -• Their circumstances (slavery in Egypt or death in the desert) determine their perspective on God's work -• The correct order is to view God's work through its own lens, rather than one's present circumstances -• When this order is reversed, people may complain about their situation or compromise their values for convenience -• Moses' command "be still" is often misunderstood as patient encouragement, but it's actually a frustrated demand for the people to trust God -• The story of the parting of the Red Sea shows God's compassion and patience with stubborn and unfaithful people -• Moses raises his staff and God pushes the water back with a strong wind, creating dry ground and allowing the Israelites to cross safely -• Archaeological debates about the historicity of the event are set aside for now to focus on the story as told in scripture -• The speaker describes the experience of being on a ferry under Niagara Falls -• Different reactions are described, from fear and timidity to excitement and awe -• The main point is that despite their initial feelings, everyone on the ferry made it through safely -• This is used as an analogy for faith, emphasizing that it's not the strength or quality of one's faith that saves them, but rather the object of their faith -• The concept of God fighting battles for us -• The idea that faith is required to receive God's help -• Contrast between what the Bible says and common misconceptions about receiving God's help -• The importance of understanding that God has already won the battle against sin and death -• Quotes from John 5 and explanation of what they mean in relation to spiritual salvation -• The law of God is used to guide us on how to live in grace -• Jesus has come to dwell with us and made us part of a community -• Christians are part of the movement of exodus from slavery to freedom as God's people -• Each Christian was once a slave to sin but now belongs to God's people, the church -• The goal is to move towards the city in which God dwells, the new Jerusalem -• God's presence and grace change everything about our identity and circumstances -• History can be seen from this perspective, with Jesus' life, death, and resurrection as its climax -• The kingdom of God has been ushered in through Jesus Christ, and its ending is already written but not yet fully realized -• The speaker references Exodus 14 and compares God's work to his own struggles -• Struggles, trials, and hardships are not the standard for measuring God's work -• The true measure of God's work is what he endured on the cross for humanity -• The story of Exodus already applies to listeners' lives and shows God's power over sin and bondage -• The main point of the story is that God has already won, and people should focus on praising him in difficult moments rather than trying to overcome struggles on their own. -• God has given every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms, making it unnecessary to worry about the future -• The gospel is an identity and faith-based guide for life -• Fear of the Lord and trust in Him are essential aspects of living a godly life -• Jesus' death and resurrection are the basis for our hope and salvation -• Covenant relationship with God transforms individuals and makes them captive to His glory, leading to freedom from sin and fear -• Desperation and prayer -• Calling out to a higher power -• Reference to Jesus Christ as a source of hope and salvation -• Discussion of sin, shame, and forgiveness through faith in Jesus -• Celebration of being set free from death and its grip -• Praise for the resurrection of Jesus and its promise of eternal life -• Praise and worship to Jesus Christ -• Victory over death and freedom from its grip -• Salvation in Jesus' name -• Hope and living home in Jesus Christ -• God's presence and guidance throughout life -• Receiving blessings and protection from God -• Going forth in peace, love, and service to the Lord -• Prayers and invocations to the King, referred to as "invisible", "immortal", and "wise God" -• Repetitive phrases expressing glory, honor, and eternity -• References to biblical or liturgical language (e.g. "amen") -• Brief mention of a person named Sha see \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - February 20, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - February 20, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0880d0fc7f7f98022967cf247434df32b9144f01..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - February 20, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1965 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 182.00] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 212.00] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 242.00] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 272.00] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 302.00] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 332.00] Thank you. -[332.00 --> 334.00] Thank you. -[362.00 --> 364.00] Thank you. -[364.00 --> 366.00] Thank you. -[366.00 --> 368.00] Thank you. -[368.00 --> 370.00] Thank you. -[370.00 --> 372.00] Thank you. -[372.00 --> 374.00] Thank you. -[374.00 --> 378.00] Thank you. -[378.00 --> 383.74] Completely to you -[383.74 --> 393.32] So I walk upon salvation -[393.32 --> 400.84] Your spirit alive in me -[400.84 --> 405.84] This life to declare -[405.84 --> 408.54] Your promise -[408.54 --> 412.58] My soul now to stay -[412.58 --> 419.24] So what could I say -[419.24 --> 426.70] And what could I do -[426.70 --> 435.98] And offer this heart, oh God -[435.98 --> 442.70] Completely to you -[442.70 --> 448.70] Oh, what could I say -[448.70 --> 456.70] And what could I do -[456.70 --> 465.98] But offer this heart, oh God -[465.98 --> 472.98] Completely to you -[472.98 --> 478.26] Oh, completely to you -[478.26 --> 486.26] Oh, completely to you -[486.26 --> 494.26] Oh, completely to you -[494.26 --> 496.66] So here we are -[496.66 --> 499.34] Stand, stand, stand -[499.34 --> 504.94] And I'll stand with arms high -[504.94 --> 506.66] And heart abandoned -[506.66 --> 514.34] In awe of the one who gave it all -[514.34 --> 519.12] I'll stand, my soul Lord -[519.12 --> 520.12] To you surrender -[520.12 --> 521.12] To you surrender -[521.12 --> 526.12] All I have is yours -[526.12 --> 533.40] I'll stand with arms high -[533.40 --> 535.12] And heart abandoned -[535.12 --> 541.60] In awe of the one who gave it all -[541.60 --> 547.12] I'll stand, my soul Lord -[547.12 --> 548.12] To you surrender -[548.12 --> 563.36] Good morning and welcome to Emanuel Church this morning. -[563.52 --> 564.54] We're glad that you're here. -[565.04 --> 568.90] If you are able, please stand and join us in singing this morning. -[568.90 --> 574.90] Let us pray -[574.94 --> 591.28] Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord -[591.28 --> 593.26] We will wait upon the Lord -[593.26 --> 595.66] We will wait upon the Lord -[595.66 --> 599.24] Strength arises, we wait upon the Lord -[599.24 --> 601.18] We will wait upon the Lord -[601.18 --> 604.72] We will wait upon the Lord our God -[604.72 --> 608.94] You reign forever -[608.94 --> 617.78] Our hope, our strong deliverer -[617.78 --> 622.18] You are the everlasting God -[622.18 --> 626.10] The everlasting God -[626.10 --> 632.74] You do not faint, you won't grow weary -[632.74 --> 637.88] You're the defender of the weak -[637.88 --> 641.80] You comfort those in me -[641.80 --> 648.88] You do not step on wings like he goes -[652.18 --> 660.42] Strength arises, we wait upon the Lord -[660.42 --> 662.42] We will wait upon the Lord -[662.42 --> 664.88] We will wait upon the Lord -[664.88 --> 668.40] Strength arises, we wait upon the Lord -[668.40 --> 670.40] We will wait upon the Lord -[670.40 --> 684.40] we will wait upon the lord our god you reign forever -[687.60 --> 692.40] you are the everlasting god -[692.40 --> 699.60] the everlasting god you do not face you who want -[699.60 --> 712.40] grow weary you're the defender of the weak you comfort those in need -[712.40 --> 720.40] you lift us up on wings like eagles -[722.40 --> 746.88] there we go good morning how's everyone doing this morning -[746.88 --> 753.76] oh great i love it excellent welcome to worship my name is chris i'm one of the -[753.76 --> 757.44] pastors here and if you're visiting with us this morning thank you -[757.44 --> 761.04] for joining us here if you're visiting online thank you for -[761.04 --> 764.64] checking us out uh before we continue in worship there's a couple -[764.64 --> 769.20] announcements that we want to make and remind you of and so -[769.20 --> 773.68] first of all as you have no doubt heard since it's -[773.68 --> 778.88] everywhere this past week bc began making some changes to the -[778.88 --> 782.80] requirements and restrictions around managing covet and things like that -[784.64 --> 788.08] and yet none of those changes affect us here yet -[788.88 --> 791.92] and so just a reminder to continue wearing your mask and -[791.92 --> 796.08] uh keep that on properly and over your nose as is appropriate -[796.08 --> 802.64] and the like so that we can continue to worship well together as a community -[802.64 --> 809.84] next to that um as we are increasingly returning to a more normal experience of -[809.84 --> 813.36] life and worship together we're looking to relaunch a couple things -[813.36 --> 820.24] uh and so uh for the past while you've seen elders or myself or pastor kevin lead in the -[820.24 --> 824.56] church family prayer we want some others to have opportunity to do that as well -[825.20 --> 829.44] and so if you're interested in leading the church family prayer in our shared worship -[829.44 --> 832.80] together please grab me after the service i'll write your name down -[832.80 --> 838.64] and we'll add you to that rotation list as it goes forward as well we're looking to -[838.64 --> 846.48] uh relaunch the prayer team ministry and so uh during our service and following our service -[846.48 --> 850.56] there'd be people who are wearing name tags kind of like this who are available for prayer -[850.56 --> 856.08] and so if you want someone to connect with and to pray with you they would be available around -[856.08 --> 859.76] and here present for you and so if that's something you've done in the past or something -[859.76 --> 865.36] you would like to maybe lean into and try in the season going forward grab me again after -[865.36 --> 873.04] the service i'll take your name and write you on that list finally just a reminder that our church -[873.04 --> 879.20] has a team that's participating in coldest night of the year and that's happening next week saturday -[879.20 --> 885.28] february 26th and so there's still an opportunity to sign up and join that team uh links are in the -[885.28 --> 891.36] e-bulletin and all over our social media pages and the like or you can talk to nikki nikki wave maybe -[891.36 --> 898.72] stand on the chair no i'm kidding nikki is our team captain and so she's going to help facilitate -[898.72 --> 906.72] that this is a virtual event and yet as a church community participating we want to walk together -[906.72 --> 911.04] if you want to walk with us and so you can walk in your own neighborhoods if you like but if you want -[911.04 --> 917.44] to join us we're going to be leaving from church here at 6 30 on saturday night and then we'll walk -[917.44 --> 924.96] through the community and hit our two to five k goals whatever that ends up being and we can do that -[925.52 --> 933.36] together update on that too our team has currently raised just over twenty seven hundred dollars and -[933.36 --> 939.84] we have a modest goal of seven thousand and so if you're looking for other ways to help you can support -[940.48 --> 947.28] a team or an individual team that makes up our team or you can support the whole team together in -[947.28 --> 953.28] that way for details on all of that talk to nikki we're going to continue in worship and that is -[953.28 --> 960.56] marked by god greeting us in his presence and so i invite you to adopt a posture of receipts that -[960.56 --> 966.96] god and his spirit might speak to your hearts in worship this morning receive the greeting of our god -[966.96 --> 977.44] grace mercy and peace to you from god our father and the lord jesus christ his son and our savior -[978.08 --> 982.72] through the presence and power of the holy spirit amen -[982.72 --> 995.36] psalm 98 invites us to worship saying shout for joy to the lord all the earth burst into jubilant song -[995.36 --> 1002.08] with music make music to the lord with the harp with the harp and the sound of singing with trumpets and -[1002.08 --> 1016.08] the blast of the ram's horn shout for joy before the lord the king -[1016.08 --> 1030.08] the lord oh my soul oh my soul -[1030.08 --> 1056.08] bless the lord oh my soul oh my soul worship his holy name sing like never before oh my soul i'll worship your holy name -[1056.08 --> 1066.08] the sun comes up it's a new day -[1066.08 --> 1078.48] it's time to sing your song again whatever may pass and whatever lies before me -[1078.48 --> 1092.48] blessing your ulcer oh my soul -[1092.48 --> 1100.48] a bouled -[1100.48 --> 1111.74] Sing like never before, almost told, I'll worship your holy name. -[1114.78 --> 1120.90] You're rich in love and you're slow to anger. -[1121.70 --> 1125.48] Your name is great and your heart is kind. -[1125.48 --> 1132.04] For all your goodness I will keep on singing. -[1133.76 --> 1139.72] Ten thousand reasons for my heart to find. -[1142.66 --> 1148.36] Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul. -[1148.90 --> 1153.22] Worship his holy name. -[1153.22 --> 1159.46] Sing like never before, O my soul. -[1159.84 --> 1164.22] I'll worship your holy name. -[1164.22 --> 1178.22] And on that day when my strength is failing, the end draws near and my time has come. -[1178.22 --> 1184.60] Still my soul will sing your praise unending. -[1186.22 --> 1191.22] Ten thousand years and then forever more. -[1191.22 --> 1198.22] Bless the Lord, O my soul. -[1198.22 --> 1200.22] Oh, my soul, O my soul. -[1200.22 --> 1205.22] Worship his holy name. -[1205.22 --> 1211.22] Sing like never before, O my soul. -[1211.22 --> 1216.22] Oh, my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[1216.22 --> 1217.22] I'll worship your holy name. -[1217.22 --> 1218.22] Bless the Lord, O my soul. -[1218.22 --> 1220.22] Bless the Lord, O my soul. -[1220.22 --> 1221.22] Oh, my soul. -[1221.22 --> 1228.22] Oh, my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[1228.22 --> 1229.22] Sing like never before, O my soul. -[1229.22 --> 1233.22] Sing like never before, O my soul. -[1233.22 --> 1235.22] Oh, my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[1235.22 --> 1236.22] I'll worship your holy name. -[1236.22 --> 1240.22] I'll worship your holy name. -[1240.22 --> 1242.22] I'll worship your holy name. -[1242.22 --> 1249.22] Lord, I'll worship your holy name. -[1272.22 --> 1273.22] Amen. -[1275.22 --> 1276.22] Amen. -[1277.22 --> 1278.22] Amen. -[1278.22 --> 1279.22] Ma'am. -[1279.22 --> 1280.22] Amen. -[1280.22 --> 1283.22] We're worthy of every song we could ever sing. -[1283.22 --> 1285.22] Worthy of all the praise we could ever bring. -[1285.22 --> 1287.22] We're worthy of every breath we could ever breathe. -[1287.22 --> 1289.22] We live for you. -[1289.22 --> 1290.22] We live for you. -[1290.22 --> 1291.22] Means we live for you. -[1291.22 --> 1293.22] We live for you. -[1293.22 --> 1294.22] We live for you. -[1294.22 --> 1298.22] We live for you. -[1298.22 --> 1301.22] We live for you. -[1303.14 --> 1304.86] We live for you. -[1309.38 --> 1314.22] Jesus, the name above every other name. -[1316.76 --> 1321.22] Jesus, the only one who could ever stay. -[1321.22 --> 1328.22] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe. -[1329.40 --> 1331.22] We live for you. -[1332.96 --> 1335.22] We live for you. -[1338.08 --> 1343.28] Holy, there is no one like you. -[1343.70 --> 1346.22] There is none beside you. -[1346.22 --> 1352.08] Open up my eyes in wonder. -[1352.52 --> 1356.14] And show me who you are. -[1356.28 --> 1359.22] And fill me with your heart. -[1359.90 --> 1367.12] And lead me in your love to those around me. -[1367.12 --> 1381.12] Jesus, the name above every other name. -[1383.70 --> 1388.12] Jesus, the only one who could ever stay. -[1388.12 --> 1395.12] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe. -[1395.12 --> 1398.46] We live for you. -[1399.92 --> 1402.12] We live for you. -[1404.92 --> 1410.22] Holy, there is no one like you. -[1410.22 --> 1413.22] There is none beside you. -[1413.22 --> 1414.08] There is none beside you. -[1414.08 --> 1419.02] Open up my eyes in wonder. -[1419.02 --> 1423.14] And show me who you are. -[1423.14 --> 1426.86] And fill me with your heart. -[1426.86 --> 1434.22] And lead me in your love to those around me. -[1434.22 --> 1456.22] I will build my life upon your love. -[1456.22 --> 1462.22] It is a firm foundation. -[1462.22 --> 1471.22] And I will put my trust in you alone. -[1471.22 --> 1477.18] And I will not be shaken. -[1477.18 --> 1485.18] I will build my life upon your love. -[1485.18 --> 1485.76] I will build my life upon your love. -[1485.76 --> 1491.52] It is a firm foundation. -[1491.52 --> 1500.10] I will put my trust in you alone. -[1500.10 --> 1507.10] And I will not be shaken and holy. -[1507.10 --> 1511.64] There is no one like you. -[1511.64 --> 1515.48] There is none beside you. -[1515.48 --> 1520.60] Open up my eyes in wonder. -[1520.60 --> 1524.60] And show me who you are. -[1524.80 --> 1528.22] And fill me with your heart. -[1528.22 --> 1535.22] And lead me in your love to those around me. -[1535.22 --> 1537.22] And lead me in your love to those around me. -[1537.22 --> 1540.60] Holy, there is no one like you. -[1540.60 --> 1544.22] There is none beside you. -[1544.22 --> 1549.06] Open up my eyes in wonder. -[1549.06 --> 1552.98] And show me who you are. -[1552.98 --> 1555.98] And fill me with your heart. -[1555.98 --> 1565.98] And lead me in your love to those around me. -[1565.98 --> 1572.98] Psalm 139 verse 23 says, search me, oh God. -[1572.98 --> 1574.98] And know my heart. -[1574.98 --> 1577.98] Test me and know my anxious thoughts. -[1577.98 --> 1583.98] Another translation says, God, see what is in my heart. -[1583.98 --> 1584.98] Know what is there. -[1584.98 --> 1585.98] Test me. -[1585.98 --> 1588.98] Know what I'm thinking. -[1588.98 --> 1593.98] Pastor Chris and Kevin have really challenged us through the bulletin in these last few weeks. -[1593.98 --> 1605.98] I wonder how many of us are ready to share visually by photography what is distracting, preventing, and claiming our affections from worship. -[1605.98 --> 1609.98] Honestly, what has been capturing your heart? -[1609.98 --> 1612.98] Taking God's rightful place. -[1612.98 --> 1615.98] What is claiming your affections? -[1615.98 --> 1629.98] Can we lay that down at the foot of the cross and let him renew the sense of awe we had when we first realized how loved we are by God? -[1629.98 --> 1631.98] Pray with me. -[1631.98 --> 1632.98] Father in heaven. -[1632.98 --> 1650.98] In Psalm 51, David says, create in me a clean heart, a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. -[1650.98 --> 1659.98] Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. -[1659.98 --> 1671.98] Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant a willing heart and spirit to sustain me. -[1671.98 --> 1672.98] Help us to recognize the counterfeit. -[1672.98 --> 1675.98] Help us to recognize the counterfeit. -[1675.98 --> 1680.98] And help us to give you the rightful place in our hearts. -[1680.98 --> 1684.98] Forgive us for allowing any other to replace you. -[1684.98 --> 1691.98] Thank you for offering us your rest as we come to you. -[1691.98 --> 1694.98] You are beautiful. -[1694.98 --> 1696.98] Amen. -[1696.98 --> 1724.98] Beautiful Savior, King of creation, -[1724.98 --> 1738.98] Son of God and Son of Man. -[1738.98 --> 1743.98] Truly I love thee. -[1743.98 --> 1748.98] Truly I serve thee. -[1748.98 --> 1758.98] Light of my soul, my joy, my crown. -[1758.98 --> 1760.98] Yeah. -[1760.98 --> 1770.98] Fair are the meadows, fair are the woodlands, -[1770.98 --> 1780.98] Rope dead flowers of blooming spring. -[1780.98 --> 1785.98] Jesus is fairer. -[1785.98 --> 1790.98] Jesus is purer. -[1790.98 --> 1802.98] He makes our soaring spirits sing. -[1802.98 --> 1812.98] Fair is the sunshine, fair is the moonlight, -[1812.98 --> 1822.98] Bright the sparkling stars of night. -[1822.98 --> 1827.98] Jesus shines brighter. -[1827.98 --> 1832.98] Jesus shines purer. -[1832.98 --> 1844.98] Than all the angels in the sky. -[1844.98 --> 1850.98] Beautiful Savior, Lord of the nations, -[1850.98 --> 1864.98] Son of God and Son of Man. -[1864.98 --> 1874.98] Glory and honor, praise and adoration. -[1874.98 --> 1886.98] Now and forevermore be thine. -[1886.98 --> 1888.98] I invite you to be seated. -[1888.98 --> 1904.98] Good morning. -[1904.98 --> 1905.98] Good morning. -[1905.98 --> 1906.98] Good morning, all you're listening. -[1906.98 --> 1911.98] We continue our worship with the giving of our gifts for the budget, -[1911.98 --> 1916.98] which covers the administration of the church and its ministries -[1916.98 --> 1921.98] and the special offering for Reframe Ministries. -[1921.98 --> 1927.98] Reframe Ministries began in 1939 under the name Back to God Hour, -[1927.98 --> 1929.98] with the three-fold mission. -[1929.98 --> 1932.88] proclaim that Jesus Christ is Lord, -[1933.70 --> 1936.16] help followers of Jesus grow in their faith, -[1936.74 --> 1938.06] and strengthen the church. -[1939.10 --> 1941.38] The Back to God Ministries changed their name -[1941.38 --> 1943.48] to Reframe Ministries last year, -[1944.02 --> 1947.32] reflecting the changes in media over the years. -[1948.36 --> 1952.20] God's story doesn't change, but today's media has changed. -[1952.94 --> 1956.94] Technology is the fastest, most cost-effective way -[1956.94 --> 1960.14] to reach the most people at any given time. -[1961.82 --> 1965.86] Reframe Ministries sends God's story around the world -[1965.86 --> 1969.88] using radio, television, internet, and smartphones -[1969.88 --> 1975.80] in Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Hindi, Russian, -[1975.80 --> 1979.44] Portuguese, Japanese, and Indonesian -[1979.44 --> 1983.28] through 86 gospel-centered programs -[1983.28 --> 1988.96] and 233,000 devotional emails are sent daily. -[1989.82 --> 1991.70] Tens of thousands of people interact -[1991.70 --> 1996.00] with the 67 different social media sites each month. -[1997.36 --> 2003.38] And Reframe Ministries reaches over 500,000 people -[2003.38 --> 2005.84] through video monthly. -[2006.76 --> 2008.62] Your prayers have an impact. -[2008.62 --> 2012.64] Reframe Ministries asks for volunteers to pray -[2012.64 --> 2015.42] for people who have not yet heard the gospel -[2015.42 --> 2018.64] and pray that God will use Reframe Ministries -[2018.64 --> 2021.20] to help grow the church worldwide. -[2022.16 --> 2024.54] For more information on Reframe Ministries, -[2025.10 --> 2030.14] go to their website at www.reframeministries.org. -[2030.14 --> 2033.48] Honour the Lord with your wealth -[2033.48 --> 2035.68] and with the firstfruits of all your produce. -[2036.30 --> 2038.20] Then your barns will be filled with plenty -[2038.20 --> 2041.02] and your vats will be bursting with wine. -[2041.70 --> 2043.62] Proverbs 3, 9, and 10. -[2044.76 --> 2046.90] Next week's offering is for the Budget -[2046.90 --> 2048.86] and Resonate Global Missions. -[2048.86 --> 2049.86] Thank you. -[2049.86 --> 2050.86] Thank you. -[2050.86 --> 2051.86] Thank you. -[2051.86 --> 2052.86] Thank you. -[2052.86 --> 2053.86] Thank you. -[2053.86 --> 2054.86] Thank you. -[2054.86 --> 2055.86] Thank you. -[2055.86 --> 2056.86] Thank you. -[2056.86 --> 2057.86] Thank you. -[2057.86 --> 2058.86] Thank you. -[2058.86 --> 2059.86] Thank you. -[2060.14 --> 2084.86] Thank you. -[2084.86 --> 2087.86] This is the air I breathe. -[2087.86 --> 2089.86] Thank you. -[2089.86 --> 2094.86] This is the air I breathe. -[2094.86 --> 2106.86] Your holy presence living in me. -[2106.86 --> 2107.86] Thank you. -[2107.86 --> 2108.86] Thank you. -[2108.86 --> 2109.86] Thank you. -[2109.86 --> 2114.86] This is my daily bread. -[2114.86 --> 2121.86] This is my daily bread. -[2121.86 --> 2133.86] Your very word spoken to me. -[2133.86 --> 2140.86] And I'm desperate for you. -[2140.86 --> 2144.86] And I'm desperate for you. -[2144.86 --> 2148.86] And I'm desperate for you. -[2148.86 --> 2158.86] And I'm lost without you. -[2158.86 --> 2173.86] I'm pity 211 p. I'm so sick. -[2173.86 --> 2175.86] And I'm incapable of living in my body. -[2175.86 --> 2177.60] Thank you. -[2177.86 --> 2180.86] And I'm truly able to come to God and enjoy you. -[2180.86 --> 2181.86] Chancinnisenter. -[2181.86 --> 2183.86] Father, uncondthen Impe settler, choose not with you. -[2183.86 --> 2200.30] This is the air I breathe, your holy presence living in me. -[2200.30 --> 2216.16] This is my daily bread, this is my daily bread. -[2216.16 --> 2228.20] Your very word spoken to me. -[2228.20 --> 2237.28] And I, I'm desperate for you. -[2240.28 --> 2250.24] And I, I'm lost without you. -[2250.24 --> 2263.44] And I, I'm desperate for you. -[2265.94 --> 2275.88] And I, I'm lost without you. -[2280.24 --> 2292.84] You are the air I breathe. -[2295.84 --> 2299.60] You are the air I breathe. -[2310.24 --> 2320.76] All right, kids, come on up. -[2321.08 --> 2326.14] Kids corner, if you're three, up to grade four, or anyone else who wants to, come on up. -[2326.14 --> 2342.84] Everyone's so quiet today. -[2344.84 --> 2347.20] All right, I have a little game that we're going to play. -[2348.30 --> 2350.58] And in this game, I'm going to give you some clues. -[2351.10 --> 2354.78] And I want you to try to guess who I'm talking about. -[2354.78 --> 2357.66] So if you think you know, then put up your hand. -[2358.26 --> 2360.14] And then we'll see if we can figure it out. -[2360.18 --> 2361.02] You know already, Emma? -[2361.58 --> 2362.72] Who do you think it is? -[2364.00 --> 2365.82] God, that would be a great guess. -[2366.26 --> 2367.38] We'll see if you're right. -[2368.24 --> 2373.46] Okay, so the first clue, so I'm going to say it as an I, but I, I don't mean me. -[2373.52 --> 2374.10] I'll give you that. -[2374.28 --> 2375.60] So I'm pretending to be the person. -[2376.04 --> 2376.94] I love summer. -[2380.06 --> 2380.46] Allie. -[2382.04 --> 2382.40] Olaf. -[2382.40 --> 2382.46] Olaf. -[2383.18 --> 2384.54] Well, that, that's right. -[2385.78 --> 2386.42] That's right. -[2386.94 --> 2387.70] Were you going to say that? -[2388.42 --> 2388.82] No. -[2390.50 --> 2390.90] Santa. -[2392.18 --> 2393.70] Does Santa love summer? -[2394.24 --> 2396.28] Probably because he gets a little bit of a break, right? -[2396.54 --> 2397.52] He's too tired in the winter. -[2398.14 --> 2399.12] Okay, well, it was Olaf. -[2399.34 --> 2400.30] I had two other clues. -[2400.38 --> 2401.22] I'll tell you what they were. -[2402.04 --> 2404.62] The second one was carrots are my favorite smell. -[2406.94 --> 2408.02] Well, it's still Olaf. -[2408.20 --> 2411.46] I'm just telling you the clues because I thought of these all for a long time, -[2411.46 --> 2412.90] and then you got it on the first one. -[2412.90 --> 2415.50] The third one was I like warm hugs. -[2415.96 --> 2417.90] That would have been an obvious one, right? -[2418.58 --> 2420.06] Okay, so here's another one. -[2420.62 --> 2423.10] The first clue is I have a sister. -[2425.78 --> 2426.22] Zoe? -[2427.36 --> 2428.20] Elsa and Anna. -[2428.62 --> 2429.46] Elsa and Anna. -[2429.82 --> 2430.00] Yeah. -[2430.28 --> 2431.52] That isn't it this time. -[2431.62 --> 2432.42] Do you have a guess? -[2432.94 --> 2433.96] That's looking in my eye. -[2433.96 --> 2435.96] Rosie? -[2437.40 --> 2438.58] This could be a lot of people. -[2438.70 --> 2439.92] I'm going to give you the second clue. -[2440.12 --> 2444.44] The second clue is I like to chase cats. -[2447.40 --> 2448.02] A dog? -[2448.08 --> 2448.80] You think it's a dog? -[2450.00 --> 2454.40] Okay, the third clue is I enjoy roller skating. -[2454.40 --> 2459.42] Isla, do you know? -[2460.78 --> 2461.10] Eden. -[2461.90 --> 2463.60] Does she like to chase cats? -[2466.22 --> 2467.18] Oh, Amara? -[2468.44 --> 2468.80] Hank. -[2469.46 --> 2470.44] Hank the Hound. -[2471.92 --> 2474.32] My last clue was my name rhymes with tank. -[2474.58 --> 2476.10] That would have given it away, wouldn't it? -[2476.90 --> 2477.32] All right. -[2477.78 --> 2478.58] Well, you guessed it. -[2478.62 --> 2478.74] Good. -[2478.74 --> 2483.14] I'm glad you guessed it because that was kind of the point is I gave you clues so that -[2483.14 --> 2486.24] you would know who I'm talking about and who this person was. -[2486.48 --> 2489.28] So in children's worship time, we've been talking about Jesus. -[2489.66 --> 2494.54] And when he was on earth, what he did was he gave the people around him, his disciples -[2494.54 --> 2498.62] and his followers, he was giving them clues about who he was. -[2499.20 --> 2502.08] Some of those clues we're going to talk about or we have talked about. -[2502.26 --> 2506.52] And today we're going to talk about one of those clues and it has to do with bread -[2506.52 --> 2507.34] and fish. -[2507.34 --> 2512.76] And you guys probably heard that story before, but that will be one of the clues we talk about -[2512.76 --> 2513.04] today. -[2513.22 --> 2516.10] So you can invite you to stand up, everyone, for the blessing. -[2537.34 --> 2562.92] Good morning. -[2562.92 --> 2564.92] Good morning. -[2564.92 --> 2568.34] My name is John and I'm a pastoral elder here in church. -[2568.34 --> 2571.34] And I would like to lead you in congregational prayer this morning. -[2571.34 --> 2581.34] I want to share something personal with you before we go into prayer. -[2581.34 --> 2586.76] yesterday would have been our son. -[2586.76 --> 2588.76] David's 39th birthday. -[2588.76 --> 2589.76] Was he here? -[2589.76 --> 2593.76] But the Lord took him home a little over 17 years ago. -[2593.76 --> 2600.18] And I don't bring this up just so that you know it would have been David's birthday. -[2600.18 --> 2614.60] But it reminded me of, I'm going to say, not each of us perhaps, but many of us have grieved and struggled over various things in life over the years. -[2614.60 --> 2618.02] And so often we go alone in our path and our walk. -[2618.02 --> 2628.02] And it reminded me again yesterday how we need to support each other more and pray for each other more and care for each other more. -[2628.02 --> 2632.02] And I am no better than anyone. -[2632.02 --> 2635.02] In fact, I may be worse. -[2635.02 --> 2643.02] But we need to pray for each other through our good times, but also through the times that we find challenging. -[2643.02 --> 2647.02] And as we grieve, we too may come to the Lord. -[2647.02 --> 2651.44] So I am going to want to lead you in prayer, and shall we do so at this time? -[2652.84 --> 2655.66] Our Father in heaven, we bow our heads before you. -[2657.76 --> 2661.04] Lord, we thank you for this day. -[2663.20 --> 2669.52] We thank you, Lord, for bringing us here together as your children. -[2669.96 --> 2672.68] And yet, Lord, we know that many of us are not here with us. -[2672.68 --> 2678.72] And there are some, Lord, who are worshiping with us, live streaming online at this time. -[2678.82 --> 2680.86] And, Lord, we pray for each of them also. -[2681.08 --> 2686.18] And, Lord, you have promised us in your word also that where two or three are gathered in your name, -[2687.04 --> 2691.14] that you are there also, Lord, even if we are by ourselves. -[2691.28 --> 2698.78] May we then, too, know that even then you are there and that you bless us even at that time. -[2698.78 --> 2705.16] And, Lord, may we each be blessed as we come together to worship you this morning. -[2705.26 --> 2707.94] May your name be honored and glorified. -[2708.04 --> 2710.34] May we do so in word and in song. -[2712.28 --> 2716.86] Lord, may we leave this place being drawn closer to you. -[2716.86 --> 2729.32] Lord, we have sung this morning also that you are holy and that, Lord, may we know you better. -[2729.44 --> 2731.08] May we be filled with your wonder. -[2731.26 --> 2738.70] Lord, we pray that in all that we do in our daily walk in life also that wherever we go that others may see, Lord, -[2738.74 --> 2741.74] that you live in us and the words that we speak and in our actions. -[2741.74 --> 2748.12] And, Lord, we pray, Lord, that each day again there would be many who turn their hearts to you. -[2750.40 --> 2760.48] And, Lord, we know that through these COVID times that we have now also, Lord, as many of us tire of it, -[2760.48 --> 2774.40] and, Lord, it becomes more challenging to show your love to those around us and to be who you want us to be, Lord. -[2774.44 --> 2781.92] We pray that you would give us strength and wisdom through these times, Lord, that we may continually love others. -[2781.92 --> 2792.34] Lord, we pray for Matt and Emily. -[2792.60 --> 2799.26] Lord, we pray for Adam and Rachel, two young couples, Lord, who soon will become married. -[2801.74 --> 2808.54] We pray, Lord, that each of them may seek you and that you would be a part of their families as well. -[2808.54 --> 2814.74] Lord, you have told us through your word also that a strand of three is difficult to break. -[2816.54 --> 2821.02] And, Lord, we pray that their lives, too, may be enriched by your spirit. -[2821.80 --> 2825.56] Lord, we pray for Jared as he is in Costa Rica. -[2827.16 --> 2832.36] Lord, preparing for mission work, we pray, Lord, that you would lead and guide him there also -[2832.36 --> 2839.12] and that he too may seek you and all that he is doing there also. -[2839.28 --> 2841.70] And may your light shine through him. -[2843.70 --> 2854.20] Lord, we pray for Allison and her family, Lord, as they grieve the passing away of her father-in-law. -[2855.82 --> 2858.76] Lord, they have had much to deal with over the last year. -[2858.76 --> 2859.76] Lord, we pray for him. -[2859.76 --> 2860.76] Lord, we pray for him. -[2860.76 --> 2861.76] Lord, we pray for him. -[2861.76 --> 2863.60] Lord, we pray that you would give them strength. -[2866.82 --> 2871.46] Lord, may they stay focused on you through these difficult times. -[2874.14 --> 2879.32] Lord, we pray also for Rachel. -[2880.44 --> 2883.00] We pray for Judy and Diane. -[2883.12 --> 2883.86] We pray for Emma. -[2883.86 --> 2888.18] Lord, we know there are others in our church family also perhaps who struggle. -[2888.32 --> 2891.68] We may not know them by name always, but you know them, Lord. -[2891.76 --> 2895.00] We pray for each one that they may experience your healing touch. -[2896.12 --> 2898.80] And, Lord, for many we have prayed for a long time. -[2898.96 --> 2903.60] Yet, still, Lord, we come to you knowing that you are in control of all things -[2903.60 --> 2905.32] and that you are able to do all things. -[2905.32 --> 2914.12] Lord, we pray for the coolest night of the year event that's coming up this coming weekend. -[2916.38 --> 2920.48] Lord, we thank you that our church may participate in this also. -[2920.64 --> 2928.86] And we pray that the funds that may be raised, Lord, may be used well to spread and further your kingdom's work. -[2928.86 --> 2932.58] Lord, we pray for the various ministries of our church. -[2933.38 --> 2935.66] Lord, lead and guide each one. -[2937.26 --> 2942.56] And, Lord, as the children come together this morning also for children's worship time, -[2942.72 --> 2943.60] may they are too. -[2946.72 --> 2950.92] May the little ones, Lord, be drawn close to you in their own simple ways. -[2951.04 --> 2953.98] Lord, may they know you and may they love you. -[2954.50 --> 2956.84] Because, Lord, we know that you love them. -[2956.84 --> 2962.54] Lord, we pray for our church leadership. -[2964.54 --> 2965.66] Pray for counsel. -[2965.96 --> 2970.08] Lord, we pray for the various issues that come up from time to time. -[2970.66 --> 2977.78] Lord, we pray for your spirit to lead us and guide us in wisdom and courage as we move forward. -[2981.08 --> 2985.18] Lord, we pray for Pastor Chris this morning also as he leads us through your word. -[2985.18 --> 2987.68] Lord, we pray, Lord, that as you give him the words to speak, -[2987.78 --> 2992.78] that he may speak them clearly and boldly and that our hearts and eyes may be open to them. -[2998.24 --> 3003.56] Lord, we pray that you would bless our worship this morning. -[3004.46 --> 3006.50] We ask this, Lord, in your name. -[3007.20 --> 3007.54] Amen. -[3015.18 --> 3031.88] I'm just going to do some housekeeping for a minute. -[3036.88 --> 3040.52] As beautiful as they are, they would be less so strewn all over the stage. -[3040.52 --> 3047.80] This morning, we're going to continue in the book of Exodus. -[3048.10 --> 3052.74] And I'm going to encourage you, if you have a Bible, to grab that, open it up. -[3052.82 --> 3058.00] We're going to start reading together in Exodus 13. -[3059.12 --> 3060.40] That will be on the screen. -[3061.04 --> 3066.34] And then we'll read through to verse 22 of chapter 14. -[3066.34 --> 3067.98] So have that ready. -[3069.06 --> 3073.84] Before we do that, I want to convey an image to you as we come into this text. -[3076.60 --> 3078.76] This is one of those texts that are very familiar. -[3079.18 --> 3085.14] And so sometimes it's easy to make assumptions about that. -[3085.90 --> 3089.02] But as we come into this text, I'm going to tell you a little story. -[3089.02 --> 3100.74] As a teenager, there was a couple times, weekends, where I would go with my dad to his shop and push a broom for the day. -[3101.18 --> 3112.22] Or I would paint pipes that had propane gas going through in yellow and others that had oxygen in green and ones that had water in blue. -[3112.64 --> 3113.22] Dad, am I right? -[3113.34 --> 3114.60] Did I remember that color correctly? -[3115.24 --> 3115.66] Yes. -[3115.80 --> 3116.02] Good. -[3116.02 --> 3116.06] Good. -[3119.02 --> 3129.36] Now, what you have to know, if you don't yet, when I was a teenager, my dad worked for a company that built simulators to train firefighters. -[3130.82 --> 3141.34] So when people asked me what he did for a living, I said, well, my dad's job title is he is an electrical technician responsible for the design of fire simulation control modules. -[3142.28 --> 3143.76] People would look at me, they go, what? -[3144.60 --> 3145.76] I go, he's a pyromaniac. -[3146.30 --> 3147.78] He gets to play with fire. -[3147.78 --> 3161.14] And on one of the days that I was there, they had been working on a life-size scale model or representation of an oil tanker truck. -[3161.92 --> 3162.40] Right? -[3162.52 --> 3165.20] And that would travel under pressure on the road. -[3165.40 --> 3168.88] And they had to simulate what would happen if this thing would catch on fire. -[3168.88 --> 3175.54] Now, these tanker trucks travel under pressure and there's a pressure release valve on top. -[3175.80 --> 3185.02] And if that fails and catches fire, it shoots a column of fire 60 feet or so into the air and about three feet wide. -[3185.16 --> 3189.92] And that's what we got to test that day as a 17 or 18 year old in the shop. -[3189.92 --> 3198.24] And dad told me I could stand at the control panel and turn it on so that they could be up close in their gear and watch what it looked like and then shut it off. -[3199.80 --> 3201.86] Coolest job ever. -[3201.86 --> 3205.80] I went home and they even paid me for it. -[3207.96 --> 3215.22] Point is, there was this massive column of fire that shot up into the air. -[3215.30 --> 3222.10] They had to call the fire department each time they would do a test just to say don't send the trucks because then they would have to pay for the trucks to come out. -[3222.10 --> 3231.66] Now, whenever I read this story or when I hear about God leading the Israelites in a pillar of fire, right, we have maybe a small visual representation here. -[3231.88 --> 3232.94] That's what I see. -[3233.76 --> 3240.00] This giant, massive column of catastrophic fire burning up the sky. -[3242.46 --> 3244.10] You probably have your own image. -[3244.10 --> 3251.94] As we come into these stories, especially for those of us who have been raised in the church or in Christian communities, these are very familiar. -[3252.76 --> 3263.88] And so I want to encourage you as we come into this text together to hear it and to visualize it with those images, yes, but wondering, -[3265.26 --> 3269.16] what can God help me to see today? -[3270.32 --> 3272.94] So with that in mind, let's read. -[3272.94 --> 3275.36] I'm going to start at verse 20. -[3276.02 --> 3278.32] So not verse 17, Linda, sorry. -[3279.82 --> 3283.78] Start at verse 20 in chapter 13. -[3283.78 --> 3291.30] After leaving Succoth, they camped at Etham on the edge of the desert. -[3292.34 --> 3303.26] By day, the Lord went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light so that they could travel by day or night. -[3304.14 --> 3309.66] Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place in front of the people. -[3309.66 --> 3313.30] Then the Lord said to Moses, -[3313.30 --> 3321.26] Tell the Israelites to turn back and encamp near the Harreoth between Migdol and the sea. -[3321.26 --> 3325.86] They are to camp by the sea directly opposite Baal-Zephon. -[3326.38 --> 3331.72] And Pharaoh will think the Israelites are wandering around the land in confusion hemmed in by the desert. -[3332.44 --> 3335.68] And I will harden Pharaoh's heart and he will pursue them. -[3336.22 --> 3343.72] But I will gain glory for myself through Pharaoh and his army and the Egyptians will know that I am the Lord. -[3343.72 --> 3346.62] So the Israelites did this. -[3347.78 --> 3350.76] When the king of Egypt was told that the people had fled, -[3351.12 --> 3355.56] Pharaoh and his officials changed their minds about them and said, -[3355.84 --> 3356.44] What have we done? -[3357.06 --> 3360.00] We've let the Israelites go and have lost their services. -[3361.10 --> 3365.72] So he had his chariot made ready and took his army with him. -[3365.72 --> 3373.68] He took 600 of his best chariots along with all the other chariots of Egypt with officers all over all of them. -[3374.68 --> 3381.40] The Lord hardened the heart of Pharaoh, king of Egypt, so that he pursued the Israelites who were marching out boldly. -[3382.62 --> 3387.44] The Egyptians, all Pharaoh's horses and chariots, horsemen and troops, -[3387.44 --> 3395.20] pursued the Israelites and overtook them as they camped by the sea near Harreoth opposite Baal-Zephon. -[3396.68 --> 3402.98] As Pharaoh approached, the Israelites looked up and there were the Egyptians marching after them. -[3404.18 --> 3408.68] They were terrified and cried out to the Lord. -[3409.42 --> 3410.34] They said to Moses, -[3410.34 --> 3414.98] Was it because there were no graves in Egypt that you brought us to the desert to die? -[3415.68 --> 3418.46] What have you done to us by bringing us out of Egypt? -[3418.86 --> 3423.08] Didn't we say to you in Egypt, leave us alone, let us serve the Egyptians? -[3423.08 --> 3428.28] It would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the desert. -[3430.20 --> 3432.08] Moses answered the people, -[3433.08 --> 3434.04] Do not be afraid. -[3434.86 --> 3438.12] Stand firm and you will see the deliverance of the Lord. -[3438.42 --> 3440.34] The deliverance the Lord will bring you today. -[3441.18 --> 3444.50] The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. -[3444.66 --> 3446.52] The Lord will fight for you. -[3446.52 --> 3449.06] You need only be still. -[3449.06 --> 3453.02] Then the Lord said to Moses, -[3453.02 --> 3456.06] Why are you crying out to me? -[3456.54 --> 3458.12] Tell the Israelites to move on. -[3458.46 --> 3465.70] Raise your staff and stretch out your hand over the sea to divide the water so that the Israelites can go through the sea on dry ground. -[3465.70 --> 3471.06] I will harden the hearts of the Egyptians so that they will go in after them. -[3471.14 --> 3475.92] And I will gain glory through Pharaoh and all his army through his chariots and his horsemen. -[3476.14 --> 3483.70] The Egyptians will know that I am the Lord and I will gain glory through Pharaoh, his chariots and his horsemen. -[3483.70 --> 3491.14] Then the angel of the Lord, who had been traveling in front of Israel's army, withdrew and went behind them. -[3491.50 --> 3495.72] The pillar of cloud also moved from in front and stood behind them. -[3496.54 --> 3499.36] And coming between the armies of Egypt and of Israel. -[3500.78 --> 3504.96] Throughout the night, the cloud brought darkness to the one side and light to the other. -[3505.42 --> 3507.94] So neither went near the other all night long. -[3507.94 --> 3512.78] Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea. -[3513.24 --> 3519.38] And all that night, the Lord drove the sea back with a strong east wind and it turned to dry land. -[3520.00 --> 3527.10] The waters were divided and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground with a wall of water on their right and on their left. -[3528.52 --> 3534.96] The Egyptians pursued them and all of Pharaoh's horses and chariots and horsemen followed them into the sea. -[3534.96 --> 3542.46] During the last watch of the night, the Lord looked down from the pillar of fire and cloud at the Egyptian army and threw it into confusion. -[3543.64 --> 3546.48] He jammed the wheels of their chariots so they had difficulty driving. -[3546.94 --> 3549.38] And the Egyptians said, let's get away from the Israelites. -[3549.54 --> 3552.36] The Lord is fighting against them. -[3554.26 --> 3562.40] Then the Lord said to Moses, stretch out your hand over the sea so that the waters may flow back over the Egyptians and their chariots and horsemen. -[3562.40 --> 3568.48] Moses stretched out his hand over the sea and at daybreak, the sea went back to its place. -[3569.08 --> 3574.76] The Egyptians were fleeing toward it and the Lord swept them into the sea. -[3576.60 --> 3579.40] The water flowed back and covered the chariots and horsemen. -[3579.90 --> 3586.74] The entire army of the Pharaoh that had followed the Israelites into the sea, not one of them survived. -[3586.74 --> 3593.74] But the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground with a wall of water on their right and on their left. -[3593.90 --> 3598.26] And that day the Lord saved Israel from the hands of the Egyptians. -[3598.86 --> 3602.10] And Israel saw the Egyptians lying dead on the seashore. -[3603.10 --> 3607.08] And when the Israelites saw the mighty hand of the Lord displayed against the Egyptians, -[3607.08 --> 3615.62] the people feared the Lord and put their trust in him and in Moses, their servant. -[3616.36 --> 3617.64] This is the word of the Lord. -[3622.14 --> 3627.54] Now there's a lot here and so I want to jump right into this with you this morning. -[3627.54 --> 3644.66] What you will see in this story for the Israelites and for us today is that who you are in God matters because of who he is in you. -[3646.54 --> 3653.16] What you do is because what God has already done. -[3653.16 --> 3665.04] If you are a Christian, your identity is determined, I'll even use the word, predestined before the foundation of the world. -[3665.72 --> 3675.44] And so whatever you face in this present reality or in the future is already prepared for by God in you. -[3675.44 --> 3685.10] And while that might be a challenge to wrap our minds around right now, that's what we're going to see in this text. -[3685.22 --> 3687.08] And so let's see how we get there. -[3687.32 --> 3692.70] And then I'll wrap that up with a couple ideas about what that changes for us today. -[3693.76 --> 3697.96] Now, look with me at verse 19. -[3698.06 --> 3699.56] We didn't read it, but just beforehand. -[3699.56 --> 3727.36] The journey of the Exodus out of Egypt, out of captivity, is a completion of the promises that God made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. -[3728.02 --> 3728.16] Right? -[3728.16 --> 3736.46] God delivers Israel from Egypt not because they somehow deserve it, but because God is always faithful to his promises. -[3737.60 --> 3737.76] Right? -[3737.88 --> 3739.48] God's word stands. -[3740.24 --> 3743.92] That's the point that Pastor Kevin made so powerfully last week. -[3743.92 --> 3749.74] And that theme continues through and in and under this text. -[3749.74 --> 3756.68] One of my favorite texts on this idea is actually from Deuteronomy 7. -[3757.46 --> 3760.26] And if you've done pre-marriage counseling with me, this is familiar to you. -[3760.96 --> 3761.28] Right? -[3761.34 --> 3764.52] Where Moses remembers for the people, Deuteronomy 7, -[3764.52 --> 3767.66] The Lord did not set his affection on you. -[3767.74 --> 3769.18] That is, the Lord did not love you. -[3769.38 --> 3769.62] Right? -[3769.66 --> 3772.70] Or choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples. -[3772.82 --> 3774.14] For you were the fewest of all peoples. -[3774.96 --> 3778.00] But it was because the Lord loved you. -[3778.40 --> 3787.04] And kept the oath, kept the promise that he swore to your ancestors that he brought you out with a mighty hand and redeemed you from the land of slavery. -[3787.04 --> 3790.32] From the power of Pharaoh, king of Egypt. -[3791.24 --> 3791.38] Right? -[3791.42 --> 3796.60] God loves you because he loves you because he promised to love you. -[3796.72 --> 3799.92] And he is faithful to his promises. -[3801.02 --> 3801.14] Right? -[3801.14 --> 3804.86] That's the foundation of God's love for his people. -[3805.62 --> 3806.78] God's own promise. -[3806.90 --> 3808.02] His own word. -[3808.02 --> 3811.66] He can't but be faithful to his promises. -[3812.12 --> 3812.20] Right? -[3812.32 --> 3813.66] Joseph knew it. -[3814.24 --> 3816.14] And Moses fulfilled it. -[3817.70 --> 3827.62] Not only do we see God then as faithful to promises past, but that faithfulness is expressed in the present. -[3829.74 --> 3831.70] Verse 21. -[3832.92 --> 3840.12] By day the Lord went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way, and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light. -[3840.54 --> 3846.86] Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place in front of the people. -[3847.04 --> 3853.62] A 60-foot column of fire is God guiding his people. -[3854.40 --> 3858.32] The pillar of fire and of cloud show us that God is a guide. -[3858.66 --> 3858.76] Right? -[3858.84 --> 3860.52] He leads his people. -[3860.52 --> 3864.46] And then jump to verse 19 of chapter 14. -[3864.46 --> 3872.78] Then the angel of the Lord who had been traveling in front of them, presumably in or with that pillar of fire and cloud, withdrew and went behind them. -[3873.10 --> 3877.22] The pillar of cloud moved from in front of them and stood behind them. -[3877.90 --> 3878.04] Right? -[3878.04 --> 3881.26] God is a guide and God is a guard. -[3883.26 --> 3883.78] Right? -[3883.82 --> 3887.48] He is a guide to lead you and a guard to protect you. -[3888.26 --> 3890.24] And so remember, as we're looking at this, right? -[3890.50 --> 3895.08] Who you are in him comes from who he is in you. -[3895.08 --> 3898.68] And God is a guide and God is a guard. -[3899.04 --> 3902.44] He leads you and so look to his leading. -[3903.60 --> 3903.68] Right? -[3904.50 --> 3910.50] Being a disciple of Jesus and of God means being a follower. -[3911.02 --> 3911.16] Right? -[3911.22 --> 3913.58] Doing what he does and what he commands. -[3913.80 --> 3915.04] God is our guide. -[3915.52 --> 3918.30] And God is a guard. -[3918.66 --> 3919.86] He protects you. -[3919.86 --> 3924.86] Now, clearly, that doesn't mean you're not going to face some stuff. -[3925.86 --> 3928.72] But it does mean you don't face it alone. -[3929.84 --> 3932.64] God made that point and reminded us before he prayed. -[3933.68 --> 3933.82] Right? -[3933.84 --> 3935.76] This is still a story of an army. -[3935.94 --> 3936.08] Right? -[3936.14 --> 3938.50] And in verse 20, it's two armies. -[3938.66 --> 3941.08] The armies, plural, of Egypt and of Israel. -[3941.46 --> 3945.94] The church is an army for the Lord and God is your guard. -[3945.94 --> 3951.68] We wage war against powers and principalities, against spiritual forces, against sin and the flesh. -[3951.84 --> 3954.06] But the battle is the Lord's. -[3956.24 --> 3959.74] And so look, we're already starting to see it. -[3960.98 --> 3965.26] Who you are in him isn't about what you do. -[3965.96 --> 3967.02] At least not first and foremost. -[3967.02 --> 3973.46] It's about what he has done and about who he is. -[3973.86 --> 3976.52] God is a guide and a guard. -[3976.84 --> 3980.82] Now, people make this mistake about Christianity all the time. -[3982.48 --> 3983.02] Right? -[3983.06 --> 3987.06] We make the mistake by saying that our religion is first about what you do. -[3988.52 --> 3991.52] The gospel isn't about changing behaviors. -[3992.06 --> 3992.14] Right? -[3992.14 --> 3996.04] Christianity, the religion of the Bible, both in the Old Testament and the New Testament, -[3996.24 --> 3999.70] is about what God has done and what God is going to do. -[4000.64 --> 4000.82] Right? -[4000.86 --> 4005.60] And what God has done works its way down through you to what you do. -[4005.66 --> 4006.08] Absolutely. -[4006.44 --> 4009.00] But not first because you've done it. -[4009.10 --> 4010.62] Instead, because he has. -[4011.40 --> 4011.62] Right? -[4011.66 --> 4013.78] That order of operations matters. -[4013.78 --> 4018.88] And if you make our religion about requiring certain moralities, -[4019.16 --> 4021.98] you've made it about something other than God and Jesus. -[4023.44 --> 4027.52] Make your religion about covenant relationship with God by the gospel, -[4027.94 --> 4032.00] and then, in that order, you'll get transformed lives. -[4032.00 --> 4043.84] Back in the story here, then, we read that God will harden Pharaoh's heart, -[4044.54 --> 4050.06] and then we read that Pharaoh and his officials changed their minds about them. -[4050.88 --> 4051.36] Right? -[4051.42 --> 4054.70] The end of which is that Pharaoh and his chariots come after the people. -[4055.42 --> 4061.98] Now, I don't want to get too bogged down into the details or into theological debates, -[4062.54 --> 4067.48] but to say that looking at the instances throughout this story -[4067.48 --> 4072.76] and the plagues previous to this of Pharaoh's heart being hardened by God, -[4073.08 --> 4075.14] or Pharaoh already having a hard heart, -[4075.26 --> 4078.66] or Pharaoh hardening his own heart and changing his mind -[4078.66 --> 4081.54] is a great follow-up study for you to do in your care groups -[4081.54 --> 4083.00] or in your personal devotions. -[4083.00 --> 4086.14] Now, I'm happy to follow up with you afterwards and talk about that. -[4086.56 --> 4089.70] Let me just say, so that we can move past it, -[4089.70 --> 4093.74] is that what God does, he does so that, -[4094.14 --> 4095.22] verse 4, -[4095.36 --> 4099.46] I will gain glory for myself through Pharaoh and his armies. -[4100.30 --> 4100.82] Right? -[4100.86 --> 4101.66] Or verse 18, -[4102.10 --> 4104.24] the Egyptians will know that I am the Lord -[4104.24 --> 4107.92] when I gain glory through Pharaoh and his armies. -[4108.08 --> 4111.44] Everything God does is for his glory. -[4112.08 --> 4112.26] Right? -[4112.26 --> 4113.22] We saw it with the plagues. -[4113.78 --> 4113.92] Right? -[4114.00 --> 4116.64] Everything he did in the Egyptians -[4116.64 --> 4120.28] was to show both the Egyptians and the Israelites -[4120.28 --> 4121.98] and then through them down to us -[4121.98 --> 4125.04] that he is Lord of all creation, -[4125.04 --> 4126.82] that there is no God like him -[4126.82 --> 4130.48] and that he is most worthy to be praised. -[4132.94 --> 4133.92] Back to the story again. -[4135.56 --> 4136.84] The turn of events, -[4137.46 --> 4140.10] Pharaoh coming after the Israelites, -[4140.80 --> 4142.98] proves to be too much for the people. -[4144.30 --> 4147.56] Now, I'm not, I can't tell for sure, obviously, -[4147.72 --> 4150.36] but maybe they thought that once they left Egypt -[4150.36 --> 4153.20] it was going to be a simple walk in the park. -[4153.20 --> 4156.44] I don't know, maybe it was going to be an easy walk to freedom, -[4156.58 --> 4158.46] but it's pretty clear that the last thing -[4158.46 --> 4160.28] that they had anticipated happening -[4160.28 --> 4163.18] was that they would be pinned between the sea -[4163.18 --> 4165.86] and the full forces of the Egyptian army. -[4166.58 --> 4168.32] And we're told that they are terrified -[4168.32 --> 4170.46] and that they cry out to the Lord. -[4171.08 --> 4174.00] The people actually then begin to shift that anxiety, -[4174.18 --> 4175.34] remember we've talked about this before, -[4175.42 --> 4177.50] to Moses as the source of their trouble -[4177.50 --> 4181.78] and long for the supposed comfort and security of Egypt. -[4181.78 --> 4184.42] Now, again, there is a lesson hidden in here -[4184.42 --> 4185.68] for those of us who are in leadership -[4185.68 --> 4187.34] about how people project their fears -[4187.34 --> 4189.48] in their midst of the lack of faith, -[4189.90 --> 4190.84] but I'll give you that for free. -[4190.94 --> 4192.14] You can ruminate that on your own. -[4193.66 --> 4196.08] Even after all that they have seen God do, -[4196.90 --> 4198.52] they are willfully ignorant, -[4199.10 --> 4201.02] that is, they choose to be blind to -[4201.02 --> 4203.60] his continued presence with them. -[4204.58 --> 4207.16] In their minds, there are only two options, -[4207.70 --> 4209.90] slavery in Egypt or death in the desert. -[4209.90 --> 4213.92] I love the way that Peter Enns puts it. -[4213.98 --> 4215.68] Peter Enns is a Bible scholar. -[4215.84 --> 4216.14] He says, -[4216.96 --> 4218.12] they, the people of Israel, -[4218.36 --> 4219.74] have still not learned -[4219.74 --> 4221.10] that their circumstances -[4221.10 --> 4223.00] are not the final standard -[4223.00 --> 4225.24] on which to view the work of God. -[4229.12 --> 4231.02] Your present circumstances, -[4231.68 --> 4232.82] whatever they may be, -[4233.30 --> 4235.14] are not the final standard -[4235.14 --> 4237.02] on which to view the work of God. -[4237.02 --> 4239.48] But how often, -[4239.68 --> 4240.76] and I'm guilty of this too, -[4240.86 --> 4242.44] do we base our understanding -[4242.44 --> 4244.46] of God's work in the world -[4244.46 --> 4246.56] based on whatever it is -[4246.56 --> 4247.56] you're facing right now? -[4248.14 --> 4249.00] Right, how many times -[4249.00 --> 4250.10] do you look at everything -[4250.10 --> 4251.64] that's happening in your life -[4251.64 --> 4253.44] or not happening in your life -[4253.44 --> 4254.30] that you want to happen -[4254.30 --> 4255.68] and assume that, -[4255.86 --> 4257.44] one, either God has forgotten -[4257.44 --> 4259.18] or God doesn't care -[4259.18 --> 4260.52] or God is too busy -[4260.52 --> 4261.88] with other people's problems, -[4261.98 --> 4263.64] with bigger things going on, -[4263.64 --> 4264.30] or four, -[4264.38 --> 4265.62] that God isn't even real? -[4266.48 --> 4266.74] And he's, -[4266.94 --> 4268.12] of course he can't do anything about it -[4268.12 --> 4269.08] because he's just not there. -[4270.38 --> 4271.80] But the inner workings -[4271.80 --> 4273.02] of your life -[4273.02 --> 4275.08] are not the lens -[4275.08 --> 4276.74] by which we should view -[4276.74 --> 4278.06] the work of God. -[4278.14 --> 4278.50] In fact, -[4278.60 --> 4279.46] that order is just -[4279.46 --> 4280.16] straight backwards. -[4281.62 --> 4282.10] Right, -[4282.16 --> 4284.18] you should let the work of God -[4284.18 --> 4285.00] be the lens -[4285.00 --> 4286.16] by which you look -[4286.16 --> 4287.34] at the inner workings -[4287.34 --> 4288.36] of your life. -[4289.82 --> 4290.30] Right, -[4290.30 --> 4291.20] when you get it backwards, -[4291.20 --> 4292.76] you say things like, -[4293.46 --> 4294.10] it would have been better -[4294.10 --> 4295.52] for us to serve the Egyptians -[4295.52 --> 4297.26] than to die in the desert. -[4298.62 --> 4299.66] When you get it backwards, -[4299.90 --> 4300.84] we say things like, -[4300.98 --> 4301.86] yeah, -[4301.96 --> 4302.34] you know what, -[4302.42 --> 4303.38] that's too hard. -[4304.42 --> 4305.74] As long as nobody gets hurt, -[4306.34 --> 4307.12] I can just do it. -[4309.10 --> 4309.50] Right, -[4309.54 --> 4310.18] when we get it backwards, -[4310.32 --> 4311.16] we say things like, -[4311.78 --> 4312.92] it's just a little bit. -[4314.10 --> 4315.24] It's only on the weekends. -[4316.06 --> 4317.04] It's not a big deal. -[4318.54 --> 4318.90] Right, -[4318.92 --> 4319.92] when we get things backwards, -[4319.92 --> 4321.98] there's a kind of compromise -[4321.98 --> 4323.76] that is choosing -[4323.76 --> 4325.76] a little death -[4325.76 --> 4326.90] every time -[4326.90 --> 4329.32] over the life -[4329.32 --> 4330.38] that God wants for you. -[4332.28 --> 4333.22] And then Moses -[4333.22 --> 4335.30] gets in their face. -[4336.40 --> 4336.48] Right, -[4336.56 --> 4337.06] Moses says, -[4337.24 --> 4338.20] do not be afraid, -[4338.58 --> 4339.32] stand firm, -[4339.40 --> 4340.10] and you will see -[4340.10 --> 4340.82] the deliverance -[4340.82 --> 4341.74] the Lord will bring -[4341.74 --> 4342.88] you today. -[4343.26 --> 4344.54] The Egyptians you see today, -[4344.62 --> 4345.66] you will never see again. -[4345.90 --> 4347.32] The Lord will fight for you. -[4347.32 --> 4349.38] You need only to be still. -[4349.92 --> 4351.92] Now, -[4352.64 --> 4356.22] sometimes when we hear -[4356.22 --> 4356.82] Moses say, -[4356.92 --> 4358.30] you need only to be still, -[4359.04 --> 4360.52] some of us go immediately -[4360.52 --> 4361.68] to Psalm 46, -[4361.88 --> 4361.98] right, -[4362.00 --> 4362.88] be still and know -[4362.88 --> 4364.12] that I am God. -[4364.46 --> 4365.54] What Moses is saying here -[4365.54 --> 4366.38] is actually -[4366.38 --> 4368.58] a pretty terse command. -[4370.20 --> 4370.40] Right, -[4370.50 --> 4371.94] as we read it, -[4371.98 --> 4372.78] it sounds like he might -[4372.78 --> 4373.48] just be trying to like -[4373.48 --> 4374.42] console them, -[4374.48 --> 4374.64] right, -[4374.64 --> 4375.60] like a good parent -[4375.60 --> 4376.48] just trying to encourage -[4376.48 --> 4378.14] their kid to do something, -[4378.26 --> 4378.40] right, -[4378.40 --> 4378.62] there, -[4378.70 --> 4378.86] there, -[4378.94 --> 4379.44] don't worry, -[4379.52 --> 4380.50] God will take care of you. -[4380.78 --> 4381.28] Just wait, -[4381.38 --> 4381.90] just wait, -[4382.16 --> 4382.72] you'll see. -[4383.20 --> 4384.00] But instead, -[4384.56 --> 4384.70] right, -[4384.78 --> 4386.00] Moses is more accurately -[4386.00 --> 4386.44] saying, -[4386.56 --> 4387.26] shut up! -[4389.72 --> 4390.16] Right, -[4390.20 --> 4390.92] he isn't offering -[4390.92 --> 4391.98] patient encouragement. -[4392.12 --> 4392.84] He's frustrated -[4392.84 --> 4393.82] with these people. -[4393.88 --> 4394.78] What are you saying? -[4395.20 --> 4396.26] Don't you understand? -[4396.38 --> 4397.40] Haven't you seen a thing? -[4398.04 --> 4399.38] Haven't you learned a thing? -[4399.50 --> 4400.46] Stop whining. -[4400.90 --> 4401.80] Don't be afraid. -[4402.24 --> 4403.06] Trust God. -[4403.06 --> 4403.14] God. -[4404.34 --> 4405.84] You just don't get it. -[4406.78 --> 4408.04] That's how Moses is feeling -[4408.04 --> 4408.68] in this moment. -[4410.50 --> 4411.06] And still, -[4411.86 --> 4414.56] as a mark -[4414.56 --> 4417.26] of God's deep compassion, -[4418.56 --> 4419.56] as a mark of God's -[4419.56 --> 4420.52] graciousness -[4420.52 --> 4421.80] and his patience, -[4421.96 --> 4423.32] his unyielding -[4423.32 --> 4424.34] and prodigious love, -[4424.42 --> 4426.28] he leads these people, -[4426.44 --> 4427.68] these stubborn, -[4428.30 --> 4429.06] ungrateful, -[4429.60 --> 4430.00] grumbling, -[4430.56 --> 4431.52] unimaginative, -[4431.72 --> 4433.18] unfaithful people. -[4433.34 --> 4434.04] He leads them -[4434.04 --> 4434.66] to the edge -[4434.66 --> 4435.24] of the water -[4435.24 --> 4436.18] and Moses raises -[4436.18 --> 4436.88] his staff -[4436.88 --> 4438.06] and God pushes -[4438.06 --> 4439.02] the water back -[4439.02 --> 4440.06] with a strong wind -[4440.06 --> 4441.06] and turns it -[4441.06 --> 4442.20] to dry ground -[4442.20 --> 4442.94] and we read -[4442.94 --> 4443.88] the water's divided -[4443.88 --> 4444.58] and the Israelites -[4444.58 --> 4445.76] went through the sea -[4445.76 --> 4446.64] on the dry ground -[4446.64 --> 4447.94] with a wall of water -[4447.94 --> 4448.96] on their right -[4448.96 --> 4450.42] and on their left. -[4451.74 --> 4453.48] Now imagine that scene. -[4454.64 --> 4455.38] Now I get that -[4455.38 --> 4456.68] there's all sorts of debates -[4456.68 --> 4457.54] about the actual -[4457.54 --> 4458.82] archaeological wear -[4458.82 --> 4459.80] of this event -[4459.80 --> 4460.26] and I'm happy -[4460.26 --> 4461.00] to give you my thoughts -[4461.00 --> 4461.48] and opinions -[4461.48 --> 4462.40] on all of that afterwards -[4462.40 --> 4463.46] but for now -[4463.46 --> 4464.44] the story stands -[4464.44 --> 4465.36] and you are meant -[4465.36 --> 4466.60] to picture a wall -[4466.60 --> 4467.60] of water. -[4468.70 --> 4469.64] A few years ago -[4469.64 --> 4470.58] I went to visit -[4470.58 --> 4472.86] Niagara Falls. -[4473.00 --> 4473.78] We live just outside -[4473.78 --> 4474.46] of Niagara Falls -[4474.46 --> 4475.86] but it was a number -[4475.86 --> 4476.48] of years before -[4476.48 --> 4477.48] we got on the ferry -[4477.48 --> 4478.44] that takes you under -[4478.44 --> 4479.60] to the base of the falls. -[4479.68 --> 4480.04] Have any of you -[4480.04 --> 4480.70] ever done this? -[4481.26 --> 4481.44] Right? -[4481.60 --> 4482.64] And you stand right -[4482.64 --> 4483.28] or you stand -[4483.28 --> 4484.38] on the deck of this boat -[4484.38 --> 4485.44] and there's just -[4485.44 --> 4487.56] 167 feet -[4487.56 --> 4488.50] or whatever it is -[4488.50 --> 4489.36] of water -[4489.36 --> 4490.40] crashing down -[4490.40 --> 4490.90] around you. -[4491.12 --> 4492.62] There's sheer power -[4492.62 --> 4494.10] a wall of water -[4494.10 --> 4495.70] and it is overwhelming. -[4496.18 --> 4496.78] That's what you're -[4496.78 --> 4497.32] meant to picture -[4497.32 --> 4498.58] in this moment. -[4500.26 --> 4501.60] Now as they walked -[4501.60 --> 4502.98] undoubtedly -[4502.98 --> 4504.24] some of them -[4504.24 --> 4505.76] are terrified -[4505.76 --> 4507.26] and timidly -[4507.26 --> 4508.38] moving forward. -[4508.60 --> 4509.06] Others of them -[4509.06 --> 4509.54] are gathering -[4509.54 --> 4510.36] in small groups -[4510.36 --> 4511.44] and trying to stay -[4511.44 --> 4512.22] into the center -[4512.22 --> 4512.86] as far away -[4512.86 --> 4513.46] from each wall -[4513.46 --> 4514.84] as they possibly could -[4514.84 --> 4515.80] and still others -[4515.80 --> 4517.20] are scurrying around -[4517.20 --> 4518.44] tracing their fingers -[4518.44 --> 4519.16] like in the prince -[4519.16 --> 4519.60] of Egypt -[4519.60 --> 4520.46] through the edge -[4520.46 --> 4520.86] of the water -[4520.86 --> 4521.64] going whoa! -[4523.84 --> 4524.90] Now what's amazing -[4524.90 --> 4525.92] about this story -[4525.92 --> 4527.90] is that no matter -[4527.90 --> 4528.68] how they felt -[4528.68 --> 4529.48] in that moment -[4529.48 --> 4530.56] whether they were -[4530.56 --> 4531.02] terrified -[4531.02 --> 4532.24] or excited -[4532.24 --> 4532.86] whether they were -[4532.86 --> 4533.24] worried -[4533.24 --> 4534.30] or overwhelmed -[4534.30 --> 4535.56] or they were amazed -[4535.56 --> 4537.02] they all made it -[4537.02 --> 4537.62] through. -[4539.40 --> 4539.58] Right? -[4539.66 --> 4540.72] Someone put it -[4540.72 --> 4541.22] like this -[4541.22 --> 4542.54] said you know -[4542.54 --> 4543.28] that some of them -[4543.28 --> 4543.86] walked through -[4543.86 --> 4545.40] like wow -[4545.40 --> 4548.26] this is incredible -[4548.26 --> 4549.80] and you know -[4549.80 --> 4550.42] that some of them -[4550.42 --> 4550.82] walked through -[4550.82 --> 4551.54] like I'm gonna die -[4551.54 --> 4551.98] I'm gonna die -[4551.98 --> 4552.38] I'm gonna die -[4552.38 --> 4552.74] I'm gonna die -[4552.74 --> 4553.16] get me through -[4553.16 --> 4556.78] but no matter -[4556.78 --> 4557.48] how they were -[4557.48 --> 4558.64] in that moment -[4558.64 --> 4561.68] they all crossed over -[4561.68 --> 4564.06] they were all saved -[4564.06 --> 4565.62] why? -[4567.24 --> 4567.92] Because it's not -[4567.92 --> 4568.52] the quality -[4568.52 --> 4569.42] of your faith -[4569.42 --> 4570.24] that saves you -[4570.24 --> 4572.54] it's the object -[4572.54 --> 4573.70] of your faith -[4573.70 --> 4575.08] that carries you -[4575.08 --> 4575.36] through. -[4577.00 --> 4577.48] Right? -[4577.54 --> 4578.38] These callous -[4578.38 --> 4579.20] people -[4579.20 --> 4580.50] most of whom -[4580.50 --> 4581.50] just moments before -[4581.50 --> 4582.22] were saying -[4582.22 --> 4582.82] that they preferred -[4582.82 --> 4583.54] slavery -[4583.54 --> 4584.54] and death -[4584.54 --> 4585.12] in Egypt -[4585.12 --> 4586.44] over trusting God -[4586.44 --> 4587.96] are still saved -[4587.96 --> 4588.74] by his grace. -[4590.34 --> 4591.06] Everything -[4591.06 --> 4592.46] about this story -[4592.46 --> 4593.50] screams -[4593.50 --> 4594.18] grace -[4594.18 --> 4595.20] grace -[4595.20 --> 4596.08] grace -[4596.08 --> 4597.24] grace -[4597.24 --> 4599.04] now I know -[4599.04 --> 4599.70] that hearing -[4599.70 --> 4600.56] that many of us -[4600.56 --> 4601.32] are gonna be -[4601.32 --> 4601.70] inclined -[4601.70 --> 4602.40] to take this -[4602.40 --> 4602.70] text -[4602.70 --> 4603.36] and apply it -[4603.36 --> 4604.18] to our lives -[4604.18 --> 4604.70] by saying -[4604.70 --> 4605.28] something like -[4605.28 --> 4607.36] I just need -[4607.36 --> 4607.94] to stand -[4607.94 --> 4608.56] still -[4608.56 --> 4609.52] and God -[4609.52 --> 4610.04] will fight -[4610.04 --> 4610.54] my battles -[4610.54 --> 4610.96] for me -[4610.96 --> 4612.18] I just have -[4612.18 --> 4612.92] to let go -[4612.92 --> 4613.86] and let God -[4613.86 --> 4614.50] and everything -[4614.50 --> 4615.08] will be okay -[4615.08 --> 4615.48] I just have -[4615.48 --> 4616.06] to increase -[4616.06 --> 4616.68] my faith -[4616.68 --> 4617.40] and things -[4617.40 --> 4617.86] will be okay -[4617.86 --> 4618.24] but that's -[4618.24 --> 4618.68] not what -[4618.68 --> 4619.14] this text -[4619.14 --> 4619.76] is saying -[4619.76 --> 4621.26] right? -[4621.34 --> 4621.82] This text -[4621.82 --> 4622.48] is saying -[4622.48 --> 4623.82] stand still -[4623.82 --> 4624.46] and see -[4624.46 --> 4625.04] what God -[4625.04 --> 4626.18] has already -[4626.18 --> 4627.08] done for you -[4627.08 --> 4628.34] God has already -[4628.34 --> 4629.14] won the battle -[4629.14 --> 4629.68] for you -[4629.68 --> 4630.16] right? -[4630.18 --> 4630.58] The things -[4630.58 --> 4631.30] that we struggle -[4631.30 --> 4632.30] with in this life -[4632.30 --> 4633.82] pale in comparison -[4633.82 --> 4634.70] to what God -[4634.70 --> 4635.62] has already -[4635.62 --> 4636.40] done -[4636.40 --> 4636.72] right? -[4636.76 --> 4637.28] If we are -[4637.28 --> 4637.68] believers -[4637.68 --> 4638.74] in Jesus Christ -[4638.74 --> 4639.40] if the grace -[4639.40 --> 4639.90] of God -[4639.90 --> 4640.44] has worked -[4640.44 --> 4641.18] in our hearts -[4641.18 --> 4641.88] the battle -[4641.88 --> 4642.42] of sin -[4642.42 --> 4642.92] and death -[4642.92 --> 4643.68] has already -[4643.68 --> 4644.28] been won -[4644.28 --> 4645.12] if you are -[4645.12 --> 4645.56] a believer -[4645.56 --> 4645.94] you have -[4645.94 --> 4646.70] already -[4646.70 --> 4647.68] crossed over -[4647.68 --> 4648.58] says Jesus -[4648.58 --> 4649.44] in John 5 -[4649.44 --> 4650.12] Jesus says -[4650.12 --> 4651.58] I tell you -[4651.58 --> 4652.02] the truth -[4652.02 --> 4653.32] whoever hears -[4653.32 --> 4653.84] my word -[4653.84 --> 4654.40] and believes -[4654.40 --> 4655.16] him who sent -[4655.16 --> 4656.00] me has eternal -[4656.00 --> 4656.56] life and will -[4656.56 --> 4657.30] not be condemned -[4657.30 --> 4658.48] he has -[4658.48 --> 4659.72] crossed over -[4659.72 --> 4660.60] from death -[4660.60 --> 4661.90] to life -[4661.90 --> 4662.64] you -[4662.64 --> 4663.80] by grace -[4663.80 --> 4664.60] through faith -[4664.60 --> 4665.60] have already -[4665.60 --> 4666.58] crossed -[4666.58 --> 4667.64] over -[4667.64 --> 4672.30] J. Alec -[4672.30 --> 4673.02] Matier -[4673.02 --> 4674.24] is an Old Testament -[4674.24 --> 4674.74] scholar -[4674.74 --> 4676.18] and he was once -[4676.18 --> 4676.82] discussing the -[4676.82 --> 4677.52] relationship between -[4677.52 --> 4678.18] the Old Testament -[4678.18 --> 4679.56] and the New Testament -[4679.56 --> 4680.68] and he said this -[4680.68 --> 4681.68] he said think about it -[4681.68 --> 4683.12] think of what an -[4683.12 --> 4684.08] Israelite would say -[4684.08 --> 4684.86] on the way to -[4684.86 --> 4685.16] Canaan -[4685.16 --> 4686.24] having come out -[4686.24 --> 4686.84] of the Red Sea -[4686.84 --> 4688.34] if you asked him -[4688.34 --> 4689.28] or her along the -[4689.28 --> 4690.42] way who are you -[4690.42 --> 4692.08] they would likely -[4692.08 --> 4692.54] say -[4692.54 --> 4694.34] I was a slave -[4694.34 --> 4695.90] in a foreign land -[4695.90 --> 4696.96] in bondage -[4696.96 --> 4697.74] under the sentence -[4697.74 --> 4698.28] of death -[4698.28 --> 4699.68] I took shelter -[4699.68 --> 4700.46] under the blood -[4700.46 --> 4701.08] of the Lamb -[4701.08 --> 4701.94] and our mediator -[4701.94 --> 4702.58] led us out -[4702.58 --> 4703.38] and we crossed -[4703.38 --> 4704.32] over through -[4704.32 --> 4704.80] the waters -[4704.80 --> 4705.90] and we are on -[4705.90 --> 4706.62] our way to the -[4706.62 --> 4707.32] promised land -[4707.32 --> 4708.02] but we're not -[4708.02 --> 4708.48] there yet -[4708.48 --> 4709.74] but he's given -[4709.74 --> 4710.32] us his law -[4710.32 --> 4710.90] to guide -[4710.90 --> 4712.14] how we are -[4712.14 --> 4712.60] to live -[4712.60 --> 4713.20] in grace -[4713.20 --> 4713.98] and he has -[4713.98 --> 4714.64] come to dwell -[4714.64 --> 4715.16] with us -[4715.16 --> 4715.50] and he has -[4715.50 --> 4716.02] made us -[4716.02 --> 4717.36] into a community -[4717.36 --> 4718.42] his presence -[4718.42 --> 4719.28] is with us -[4719.28 --> 4719.70] and he will -[4719.70 --> 4720.60] stay with us -[4720.60 --> 4721.74] until we -[4721.74 --> 4722.92] get home -[4722.92 --> 4724.60] Matier -[4724.60 --> 4725.18] would go on -[4725.18 --> 4725.56] to say -[4725.56 --> 4726.18] that that is -[4726.18 --> 4726.98] exactly -[4726.98 --> 4727.94] almost word -[4727.94 --> 4728.42] for word -[4728.42 --> 4730.06] what a Christian -[4730.06 --> 4730.48] says -[4730.48 --> 4732.20] about who -[4732.20 --> 4732.72] we are -[4732.72 --> 4734.56] the movement -[4734.56 --> 4735.76] of the exodus -[4735.76 --> 4736.64] for Israel -[4736.64 --> 4737.32] from a band -[4737.32 --> 4737.88] of slaves -[4737.88 --> 4738.82] to a nation -[4738.82 --> 4739.80] of God's people -[4739.80 --> 4741.06] towards the city -[4741.06 --> 4742.26] in which God dwells -[4742.26 --> 4743.28] is just as much -[4743.28 --> 4743.86] the story -[4743.86 --> 4745.18] of every Christian -[4745.18 --> 4746.86] each and every Christian -[4746.86 --> 4747.58] is someone -[4747.58 --> 4748.40] who was once -[4748.40 --> 4748.94] a slave -[4748.94 --> 4749.62] to sin -[4749.62 --> 4750.64] but now belongs -[4750.64 --> 4751.68] to God's people -[4751.68 --> 4752.48] the church -[4752.48 --> 4753.30] and together -[4753.30 --> 4754.68] we move through -[4754.68 --> 4755.32] this world -[4755.32 --> 4756.88] towards that great day -[4756.88 --> 4758.34] when God's new Jerusalem -[4758.34 --> 4759.26] his holy city -[4759.26 --> 4760.02] will descend -[4760.02 --> 4760.92] and join -[4760.92 --> 4761.92] heaven and earth -[4761.92 --> 4762.86] as one -[4762.86 --> 4764.68] with the grace -[4764.68 --> 4765.42] of God -[4765.42 --> 4766.48] as the foundation -[4766.48 --> 4767.86] for your identity -[4767.86 --> 4769.86] changes everything -[4769.86 --> 4771.56] about how you see -[4771.56 --> 4773.00] your present circumstances -[4773.00 --> 4775.18] and future realities -[4775.18 --> 4777.58] and seeing history -[4777.58 --> 4778.92] from this perspective -[4778.92 --> 4779.22] right -[4779.22 --> 4780.54] as climaxed -[4780.54 --> 4781.10] in the life -[4781.10 --> 4781.72] death -[4781.72 --> 4782.26] and resurrection -[4782.26 --> 4782.98] of Jesus -[4782.98 --> 4784.40] in the ushering -[4784.40 --> 4785.30] in of the kingdom -[4785.30 --> 4785.76] of God -[4785.76 --> 4786.66] in the true story -[4786.66 --> 4787.38] of the whole world -[4787.38 --> 4788.36] in which the ending -[4788.36 --> 4789.36] is already written -[4789.36 --> 4790.56] and already known -[4790.56 --> 4792.72] but not yet fully realized -[4792.72 --> 4793.68] that's the point -[4793.68 --> 4794.66] of the exodus story -[4794.66 --> 4795.36] that's the point -[4795.36 --> 4797.36] of our continual retelling -[4797.36 --> 4798.42] each week -[4798.42 --> 4799.60] day in and day out -[4799.60 --> 4800.84] of God's redemptive work -[4800.84 --> 4801.84] in Jesus Christ -[4801.84 --> 4802.34] right -[4802.34 --> 4803.72] because the gospel -[4803.72 --> 4804.46] is true -[4804.46 --> 4805.44] I can face -[4805.44 --> 4806.32] today -[4806.32 --> 4808.16] because Jesus -[4808.16 --> 4809.18] has lived the life -[4809.18 --> 4809.86] that I was called -[4809.86 --> 4810.30] to live -[4810.30 --> 4810.88] and has paid -[4810.88 --> 4811.38] the penalty -[4811.38 --> 4812.26] for my sin -[4812.26 --> 4813.14] in his death -[4813.14 --> 4814.38] he makes me -[4814.38 --> 4816.10] willing and ready -[4816.10 --> 4816.98] from now on -[4816.98 --> 4817.76] to live for him -[4817.76 --> 4818.62] right -[4818.62 --> 4820.14] because he has fully paid -[4820.14 --> 4821.04] for all my sins -[4821.04 --> 4822.32] with his precious blood -[4822.32 --> 4823.58] and he has set me free -[4823.58 --> 4824.32] from the tyranny -[4824.32 --> 4825.02] of the devil -[4825.02 --> 4826.22] I can be confident -[4826.22 --> 4827.80] that he also watches -[4827.80 --> 4828.42] over me -[4828.42 --> 4829.16] in such a way -[4829.16 --> 4829.78] that not a hair -[4829.78 --> 4830.84] can fall from my head -[4830.84 --> 4831.82] without the will -[4831.82 --> 4832.62] of my father -[4832.62 --> 4833.60] in heaven -[4833.60 --> 4834.88] you see -[4834.88 --> 4837.32] the Israelites -[4837.32 --> 4838.00] grumbled -[4838.00 --> 4839.70] and feared -[4839.70 --> 4841.06] for their lives -[4841.06 --> 4842.36] because they had -[4842.36 --> 4843.44] not yet learned -[4843.44 --> 4844.70] that their own -[4844.70 --> 4845.20] struggles -[4845.20 --> 4845.82] and trials -[4845.82 --> 4846.36] and hardships -[4846.36 --> 4847.74] are not the standard -[4847.74 --> 4848.78] by which we view -[4848.78 --> 4849.50] the work of God -[4849.50 --> 4851.96] we view the work -[4851.96 --> 4852.42] of God -[4852.42 --> 4853.38] by the struggles -[4853.38 --> 4854.42] and trials -[4854.42 --> 4855.40] and hardship -[4855.40 --> 4857.12] that he endured -[4857.12 --> 4858.52] on the cross -[4858.52 --> 4859.32] for us -[4859.32 --> 4861.22] we view the work -[4861.22 --> 4861.54] of God -[4861.54 --> 4862.80] by what he endured -[4862.80 --> 4863.52] for the sake -[4863.52 --> 4864.30] of his people -[4864.30 --> 4865.18] the church -[4865.18 --> 4866.10] the true Israel -[4866.10 --> 4867.56] and the new Israel -[4867.56 --> 4869.72] so let me say that again -[4869.72 --> 4870.82] so you don't -[4870.82 --> 4871.36] miss it -[4871.36 --> 4873.68] your own struggles -[4873.68 --> 4874.62] and trials -[4874.62 --> 4875.30] and hardships -[4875.30 --> 4877.04] are not the standard -[4877.04 --> 4877.98] by which we view -[4877.98 --> 4878.80] the work of God -[4878.80 --> 4880.84] we view the work -[4880.84 --> 4881.32] of God -[4881.32 --> 4882.44] by the struggles -[4882.44 --> 4883.34] and trials -[4883.34 --> 4884.04] and hardships -[4884.04 --> 4885.72] he endured -[4885.72 --> 4886.94] on the cross -[4886.94 --> 4888.94] that's -[4888.94 --> 4890.02] the gospel -[4890.02 --> 4890.94] truth -[4890.94 --> 4891.80] and that's the point -[4891.80 --> 4892.62] of Exodus -[4892.62 --> 4893.76] 14 -[4893.76 --> 4895.04] right -[4895.04 --> 4895.56] the idea -[4895.56 --> 4896.42] is not so much -[4896.42 --> 4897.32] that we apply -[4897.32 --> 4897.86] the Exodus -[4897.86 --> 4899.08] to our lives -[4899.08 --> 4900.22] but that the Exodus -[4900.22 --> 4901.06] already applies -[4901.06 --> 4901.62] to us -[4901.62 --> 4903.12] and the significance -[4903.12 --> 4903.88] of this text -[4903.88 --> 4904.36] and story -[4904.36 --> 4905.18] isn't found -[4905.18 --> 4906.02] in what we do -[4906.02 --> 4906.62] with it -[4906.62 --> 4908.68] but what this story -[4908.68 --> 4909.20] right -[4909.20 --> 4909.72] the release -[4909.72 --> 4910.36] from slavery -[4910.36 --> 4910.86] and bondage -[4910.86 --> 4911.28] to sin -[4911.28 --> 4912.10] tells us -[4912.10 --> 4912.60] that God -[4912.60 --> 4913.44] has already -[4913.44 --> 4913.88] done -[4913.88 --> 4915.42] stories -[4915.42 --> 4915.94] not about -[4915.94 --> 4916.68] moralisms -[4916.68 --> 4917.16] that we can -[4917.16 --> 4917.80] apply to our -[4917.80 --> 4918.36] daily struggles -[4918.36 --> 4918.60] right -[4918.60 --> 4919.26] to let go -[4919.26 --> 4920.16] and let God -[4920.16 --> 4920.92] to be still -[4920.92 --> 4921.54] and Godful -[4921.54 --> 4921.98] fight for you -[4921.98 --> 4922.94] even if those -[4922.94 --> 4923.62] things are true -[4923.62 --> 4924.04] or good -[4924.04 --> 4924.72] or even if those -[4924.72 --> 4925.20] things are worth -[4925.20 --> 4925.86] learning -[4925.86 --> 4926.64] the main point -[4926.64 --> 4927.34] of this story -[4927.34 --> 4928.42] is not to give you -[4928.42 --> 4929.26] a pep talk -[4929.26 --> 4930.60] for trying times -[4930.60 --> 4931.22] and hardships -[4931.22 --> 4932.54] it's a reminder -[4932.54 --> 4933.58] that God -[4933.58 --> 4934.50] has already won -[4934.50 --> 4935.36] and sometimes -[4935.36 --> 4936.42] you just need -[4936.42 --> 4937.32] to shut up -[4937.32 --> 4939.50] and praise him -[4939.50 --> 4941.12] in that moment -[4941.12 --> 4944.66] you don't have -[4944.66 --> 4945.46] to fear death -[4945.46 --> 4946.70] because death -[4946.70 --> 4947.20] has already -[4947.20 --> 4947.80] been defeated -[4947.80 --> 4949.82] you don't need -[4949.82 --> 4950.52] to fear public -[4950.52 --> 4950.94] opinion -[4950.94 --> 4951.84] because God -[4951.84 --> 4952.56] loves you -[4952.56 --> 4953.56] and has chosen you -[4953.56 --> 4954.04] from before the -[4954.04 --> 4954.86] foundation of the world -[4954.86 --> 4955.84] and that's enough -[4955.84 --> 4956.44] for you -[4956.44 --> 4958.82] you don't have -[4958.82 --> 4959.46] to worry about -[4959.46 --> 4959.98] this day -[4959.98 --> 4960.80] or what it will -[4960.80 --> 4961.10] bring -[4961.10 --> 4961.78] because God -[4961.78 --> 4962.60] has already -[4962.60 --> 4963.16] given you -[4963.16 --> 4963.90] every spiritual -[4963.90 --> 4964.30] blessing -[4964.30 --> 4965.64] in the heavenly realms -[4965.64 --> 4967.14] right -[4967.14 --> 4967.48] you don't need -[4967.48 --> 4968.16] to be overwhelmed -[4968.16 --> 4969.02] by the future -[4969.02 --> 4969.96] because before -[4969.96 --> 4970.54] the foundation -[4970.54 --> 4971.08] of the world -[4971.08 --> 4972.00] God has plans -[4972.00 --> 4972.50] for you -[4972.50 --> 4973.62] to guide you -[4973.62 --> 4974.66] and to guard you -[4974.66 --> 4975.24] to give you -[4975.24 --> 4975.86] a hope -[4975.86 --> 4977.24] and a purpose -[4977.24 --> 4979.64] God is -[4979.64 --> 4981.44] our guide -[4981.44 --> 4983.30] God is -[4983.30 --> 4984.56] our guard -[4984.56 --> 4985.34] the gospel -[4985.34 --> 4986.74] is your identity -[4986.74 --> 4987.78] and grab hold -[4987.78 --> 4988.76] of this by faith -[4988.76 --> 4990.08] fear the Lord -[4990.08 --> 4991.84] and put your -[4991.84 --> 4992.60] trust -[4992.60 --> 4994.66] in him -[4994.66 --> 4996.78] there is no -[4996.78 --> 4997.64] other way -[4997.64 --> 4999.04] through this -[4999.04 --> 4999.98] life -[4999.98 --> 5001.02] but to fear -[5001.02 --> 5001.56] the Lord -[5001.56 --> 5002.72] and trust -[5002.72 --> 5004.32] in him -[5004.32 --> 5005.30] let me pray -[5005.30 --> 5006.14] for you -[5006.14 --> 5009.80] Lord our God -[5009.80 --> 5010.24] amen -[5010.24 --> 5011.02] and amen -[5011.02 --> 5012.12] to your gospel -[5012.12 --> 5012.86] truth -[5012.86 --> 5013.18] amen -[5013.18 --> 5013.90] and amen -[5013.90 --> 5014.72] to the gospel -[5014.72 --> 5015.16] ringing -[5015.16 --> 5016.02] clearly -[5016.02 --> 5017.10] in our hearts -[5017.10 --> 5017.70] and lives -[5017.70 --> 5018.34] in our minds -[5018.34 --> 5019.20] and imaginations -[5019.20 --> 5020.66] captivate us -[5020.66 --> 5021.44] now -[5021.44 --> 5023.14] by what you -[5023.14 --> 5023.80] have done -[5023.80 --> 5025.44] captivate our -[5025.44 --> 5025.78] hearts -[5025.78 --> 5026.48] affections -[5026.48 --> 5027.42] by the life -[5027.42 --> 5028.26] you have lived -[5028.26 --> 5028.70] and the death -[5028.70 --> 5029.48] you desired -[5029.48 --> 5030.82] the death -[5030.82 --> 5031.52] you died -[5031.52 --> 5032.42] in our place -[5032.42 --> 5033.36] captivate us -[5033.36 --> 5033.58] now -[5033.58 --> 5033.96] by your -[5033.96 --> 5034.92] exaltation -[5034.92 --> 5035.48] to the right -[5035.48 --> 5035.84] hand -[5035.84 --> 5036.52] of God -[5036.52 --> 5036.90] the Father -[5036.90 --> 5037.86] captivate us -[5037.86 --> 5038.18] now -[5038.18 --> 5039.20] by your -[5039.20 --> 5040.00] glory -[5040.00 --> 5043.28] so that we -[5043.28 --> 5043.80] can turn -[5043.80 --> 5044.24] from -[5044.24 --> 5045.48] being captive -[5045.48 --> 5046.80] to sin -[5046.80 --> 5049.22] and by -[5049.22 --> 5049.72] covenant -[5049.72 --> 5051.14] relationship -[5051.14 --> 5051.78] to you -[5051.78 --> 5052.92] that we -[5052.92 --> 5053.38] might be -[5053.38 --> 5053.88] captive -[5053.88 --> 5055.00] to -[5055.00 --> 5055.98] your -[5055.98 --> 5057.16] glory -[5057.16 --> 5058.88] transform -[5058.88 --> 5059.64] us now -[5059.64 --> 5060.34] to fear -[5060.34 --> 5061.00] you -[5061.00 --> 5061.42] and to -[5061.42 --> 5061.88] trust -[5061.88 --> 5062.56] in you -[5062.56 --> 5063.58] alone -[5063.58 --> 5065.34] you -[5065.34 --> 5066.30] are -[5066.30 --> 5066.84] our -[5066.84 --> 5067.56] living -[5067.56 --> 5068.66] hope -[5068.66 --> 5070.56] in your -[5070.56 --> 5070.80] name -[5070.80 --> 5071.28] we pray -[5071.28 --> 5071.52] Lord -[5071.52 --> 5071.86] Jesus -[5071.86 --> 5073.30] amen -[5098.66 --> 5101.10] how great -[5101.10 --> 5102.46] the chasm -[5102.46 --> 5104.02] that lay -[5104.02 --> 5104.66] between -[5104.66 --> 5105.96] us -[5105.96 --> 5107.04] how high -[5107.04 --> 5108.20] the mountain -[5108.20 --> 5109.88] I could -[5109.88 --> 5111.60] not climb -[5111.60 --> 5113.90] in desperation -[5113.90 --> 5115.62] I turned -[5115.62 --> 5116.92] to heaven -[5116.92 --> 5118.50] and spoke -[5118.50 --> 5119.96] your name -[5119.96 --> 5120.64] into -[5120.64 --> 5123.42] the night -[5123.42 --> 5124.58] through the -[5124.58 --> 5125.48] darkness -[5125.48 --> 5127.38] your loving -[5127.38 --> 5128.42] kindness -[5128.42 --> 5128.48] your loving -[5128.48 --> 5128.96] kindness -[5128.96 --> 5129.98] tore through -[5129.98 --> 5131.46] the shadows -[5131.46 --> 5133.22] of my -[5133.22 --> 5134.38] soul -[5134.38 --> 5135.82] the work -[5135.82 --> 5137.54] is finished -[5137.54 --> 5138.66] the end -[5138.66 --> 5139.82] is written -[5139.82 --> 5142.50] Jesus Christ -[5142.50 --> 5143.26] my -[5143.26 --> 5144.60] living -[5144.60 --> 5145.76] hope -[5145.76 --> 5150.14] what could -[5150.14 --> 5151.32] imagine -[5151.32 --> 5153.06] so great -[5153.06 --> 5154.28] a mercy -[5154.28 --> 5155.82] what heart -[5155.82 --> 5156.18] could -[5156.18 --> 5157.22] fathom -[5157.22 --> 5158.40] such -[5158.40 --> 5159.12] boundless -[5159.12 --> 5160.58] grace -[5160.58 --> 5161.80] the God -[5161.80 --> 5163.10] of ages -[5163.10 --> 5164.68] stepped down -[5164.68 --> 5166.16] from glory -[5166.16 --> 5167.68] to wear -[5167.68 --> 5168.84] my sin -[5168.84 --> 5170.58] and bear -[5170.58 --> 5172.40] my shame -[5172.40 --> 5173.72] the cross -[5173.72 --> 5174.86] has spoken -[5174.86 --> 5176.66] I am -[5176.66 --> 5177.82] forgiven -[5177.82 --> 5179.68] the King -[5179.68 --> 5180.66] of Kings -[5180.66 --> 5182.12] calls me -[5182.12 --> 5184.34] his home -[5184.34 --> 5185.52] beautiful -[5185.52 --> 5186.74] Savior -[5186.74 --> 5188.54] I'm yours -[5188.54 --> 5189.76] forever -[5189.76 --> 5191.52] Jesus -[5191.52 --> 5192.58] Christ -[5192.58 --> 5194.58] my living -[5194.58 --> 5196.16] home -[5196.16 --> 5198.04] hallelujah -[5198.04 --> 5200.48] praise the -[5200.48 --> 5201.54] one who set -[5201.54 --> 5202.38] me free -[5202.38 --> 5204.78] hallelujah -[5204.78 --> 5205.78] death -[5205.78 --> 5206.54] has lost -[5206.54 --> 5207.18] its grip -[5207.18 --> 5208.04] on me -[5208.04 --> 5208.94] you have -[5208.94 --> 5209.42] broken -[5209.42 --> 5210.84] every chain -[5210.84 --> 5212.24] there's salvation -[5212.24 --> 5213.70] in your name -[5213.70 --> 5215.34] Jesus Christ -[5215.34 --> 5217.14] my living -[5217.14 --> 5218.96] home -[5218.96 --> 5220.92] hallelujah -[5220.92 --> 5223.26] praise the -[5223.26 --> 5224.34] one who set -[5224.34 --> 5225.14] me free -[5225.14 --> 5227.60] hallelujah -[5227.60 --> 5228.98] death has -[5228.98 --> 5229.68] lost its -[5229.68 --> 5230.86] grip on me -[5230.86 --> 5231.80] you have -[5231.80 --> 5232.38] broken -[5232.38 --> 5233.72] every chain -[5233.72 --> 5235.12] there's salvation -[5235.12 --> 5236.56] in your name -[5236.56 --> 5238.20] Jesus Christ -[5238.20 --> 5239.88] my living -[5239.88 --> 5241.88] hope -[5241.88 --> 5245.80] then came -[5245.80 --> 5247.10] the morning -[5247.10 --> 5248.72] that sealed -[5248.72 --> 5250.06] the promise -[5250.06 --> 5251.98] your buried -[5251.98 --> 5253.04] body -[5253.04 --> 5254.42] began -[5254.42 --> 5255.64] to breathe -[5255.64 --> 5257.56] out of -[5257.56 --> 5258.84] the silence -[5258.84 --> 5260.70] the roaring -[5260.70 --> 5261.90] lion -[5261.90 --> 5263.30] declared -[5263.30 --> 5264.42] the grave -[5264.42 --> 5265.14] has no -[5265.14 --> 5266.28] claim -[5266.28 --> 5267.96] on me -[5267.96 --> 5269.16] then came -[5269.16 --> 5270.40] the morning -[5270.40 --> 5272.02] that sealed -[5272.02 --> 5273.28] the promise -[5273.28 --> 5275.20] your buried -[5275.20 --> 5276.48] body -[5276.48 --> 5277.06] began -[5277.06 --> 5279.06] to breathe -[5279.06 --> 5280.90] out of -[5280.90 --> 5282.64] the silence -[5282.64 --> 5283.98] the roaring -[5283.98 --> 5285.02] lion -[5285.02 --> 5286.52] declared -[5286.52 --> 5287.52] the grave -[5287.52 --> 5288.52] has no -[5288.52 --> 5289.60] claim -[5289.60 --> 5291.32] on me -[5291.32 --> 5292.52] Jesus -[5292.52 --> 5293.44] yours -[5293.44 --> 5294.18] is the -[5294.18 --> 5296.10] victory -[5296.10 --> 5299.56] hallelujah -[5299.56 --> 5300.56] hallelujah -[5300.56 --> 5301.46] praise the -[5301.46 --> 5302.52] one who set -[5302.52 --> 5303.36] me free -[5303.36 --> 5304.56] hallelujah -[5304.56 --> 5307.22] death has -[5307.22 --> 5307.92] lost its -[5307.92 --> 5309.06] grip on me -[5309.06 --> 5310.00] you have -[5310.00 --> 5310.50] broken -[5310.50 --> 5311.90] every chain -[5311.90 --> 5313.24] there's salvation -[5313.24 --> 5314.64] in your name -[5314.64 --> 5316.36] Jesus Christ -[5316.36 --> 5318.14] my living -[5318.14 --> 5320.06] hope -[5320.06 --> 5322.06] hallelujah -[5322.06 --> 5324.28] praise the -[5324.28 --> 5325.28] one who set -[5325.28 --> 5326.28] me free -[5326.28 --> 5327.28] hallelujah -[5327.28 --> 5329.94] death has -[5329.94 --> 5330.60] lost its -[5330.60 --> 5331.74] grip on me -[5331.74 --> 5332.74] you have -[5332.74 --> 5333.24] broken -[5333.24 --> 5334.60] every chain -[5334.60 --> 5335.98] there's salvation -[5335.98 --> 5337.40] in your name -[5337.40 --> 5339.10] Jesus Christ -[5339.10 --> 5340.86] my living -[5340.86 --> 5342.78] home -[5342.78 --> 5344.84] Jesus Christ -[5344.84 --> 5346.74] my living -[5346.74 --> 5348.62] home -[5348.62 --> 5349.62] hope -[5349.62 --> 5349.74] oh God -[5349.74 --> 5350.84] you are -[5350.84 --> 5352.62] my living -[5352.62 --> 5354.08] hope -[5354.08 --> 5356.08] oh -[5356.08 --> 5362.38] go now -[5362.38 --> 5362.92] this week -[5362.92 --> 5363.58] in the -[5363.58 --> 5364.00] hope -[5364.00 --> 5364.76] and joy -[5364.76 --> 5365.36] of the -[5365.36 --> 5365.84] gospel -[5365.84 --> 5366.64] and of -[5366.64 --> 5367.04] God -[5367.04 --> 5367.46] himself -[5367.46 --> 5368.16] who -[5368.16 --> 5368.84] goes -[5368.84 --> 5369.94] with you -[5369.94 --> 5370.86] receive -[5370.86 --> 5371.68] his -[5371.68 --> 5372.08] blessing -[5372.08 --> 5373.76] God -[5373.76 --> 5374.28] go before -[5374.28 --> 5374.54] you -[5374.54 --> 5375.50] to guide -[5375.50 --> 5375.74] you -[5375.74 --> 5376.68] God -[5376.68 --> 5377.32] go behind -[5377.32 --> 5377.68] you -[5377.68 --> 5378.52] to guard -[5378.52 --> 5378.78] you -[5378.78 --> 5379.48] God -[5379.48 --> 5379.96] go beneath -[5379.96 --> 5380.14] you -[5380.14 --> 5380.68] to support -[5380.68 --> 5381.00] you -[5381.00 --> 5381.58] God -[5381.58 --> 5382.48] go beside -[5382.48 --> 5382.78] you -[5382.78 --> 5383.60] to befriend -[5383.60 --> 5383.86] you -[5383.86 --> 5384.80] do not -[5384.80 --> 5385.62] be -[5385.62 --> 5386.48] afraid -[5386.48 --> 5387.30] let the -[5387.30 --> 5387.76] blessing of -[5387.76 --> 5388.16] God come -[5388.16 --> 5388.56] upon you -[5388.56 --> 5388.78] today -[5388.78 --> 5389.36] do not -[5389.36 --> 5389.78] be -[5389.78 --> 5390.32] afraid -[5390.32 --> 5391.12] go -[5391.12 --> 5392.66] in peace -[5392.66 --> 5393.60] to love -[5393.60 --> 5394.56] and serve -[5394.56 --> 5395.38] the Lord -[5395.38 --> 5397.06] Amen -[5397.06 --> 5415.28] now unto -[5415.28 --> 5416.28] the -[5416.28 --> 5417.56] King -[5417.56 --> 5419.90] eternal -[5419.90 --> 5422.36] unto -[5422.36 --> 5423.44] the -[5423.44 --> 5424.76] King -[5424.76 --> 5427.04] immortal -[5427.04 --> 5429.56] unto -[5429.56 --> 5430.64] the -[5430.64 --> 5431.92] King -[5431.92 --> 5434.26] invisible -[5434.26 --> 5435.84] the -[5435.84 --> 5437.38] only -[5437.38 --> 5439.68] wise -[5439.68 --> 5440.54] God -[5440.54 --> 5443.14] the -[5443.14 --> 5444.40] only -[5444.40 --> 5446.66] wise -[5446.66 --> 5447.64] God -[5447.64 --> 5454.74] now unto -[5454.74 --> 5455.50] the -[5455.50 --> 5455.74] King -[5455.74 --> 5456.62] the -[5456.62 --> 5456.86] King -[5456.86 --> 5459.20] eternal -[5459.20 --> 5461.62] unto -[5461.62 --> 5462.62] the -[5462.62 --> 5463.70] King -[5463.70 --> 5466.32] immortal -[5466.32 --> 5468.70] unto -[5468.70 --> 5469.82] the -[5469.82 --> 5471.06] King -[5471.06 --> 5472.62] invisible -[5472.62 --> 5474.62] the -[5474.62 --> 5476.62] only -[5476.62 --> 5478.66] wise -[5478.66 --> 5479.66] God -[5479.66 --> 5481.62] the -[5481.62 --> 5482.62] only -[5482.62 --> 5484.62] wise -[5484.62 --> 5485.62] wise -[5485.62 --> 5486.62] God -[5486.62 --> 5490.62] oh -[5490.62 --> 5492.62] unto -[5492.62 --> 5493.62] the -[5493.62 --> 5494.62] King -[5494.62 --> 5495.62] be -[5495.62 --> 5496.62] glory -[5496.62 --> 5497.62] and -[5497.62 --> 5498.62] honor -[5498.62 --> 5499.62] unto -[5499.62 --> 5500.62] the -[5500.62 --> 5501.62] King -[5501.62 --> 5502.62] forever -[5502.62 --> 5503.62] unto -[5503.62 --> 5507.62] the -[5507.62 --> 5508.62] King -[5508.62 --> 5509.62] King -[5509.62 --> 5510.62] be glory -[5510.62 --> 5511.62] and -[5511.62 --> 5512.62] honor -[5512.62 --> 5513.62] forever -[5513.62 --> 5515.62] forever -[5515.62 --> 5519.62] forever -[5519.62 --> 5521.62] forever -[5521.62 --> 5523.62] forever -[5523.62 --> 5525.62] forever -[5525.62 --> 5526.62] forever -[5526.62 --> 5527.62] forever -[5527.62 --> 5530.62] amen -[5530.62 --> 5533.62] now -[5533.62 --> 5534.62] unto -[5534.62 --> 5535.62] the -[5535.62 --> 5536.62] King -[5536.62 --> 5537.62] eternal -[5537.62 --> 5538.62] unto -[5538.62 --> 5540.62] the -[5540.62 --> 5541.62] King -[5541.62 --> 5542.62] immortal -[5542.62 --> 5544.62] unto -[5544.62 --> 5545.62] the -[5545.62 --> 5546.62] King -[5546.62 --> 5547.62] immortal -[5547.62 --> 5548.62] unto -[5548.62 --> 5549.62] King -[5549.62 --> 5550.62] unto -[5550.62 --> 5551.62] the -[5551.62 --> 5552.62] King -[5552.62 --> 5553.62] invisible -[5553.62 --> 5554.62] the -[5554.62 --> 5555.62] only -[5555.62 --> 5556.62] wise -[5556.62 --> 5557.62] God -[5557.62 --> 5558.62] the -[5558.62 --> 5559.62] only -[5559.62 --> 5560.62] wise -[5560.62 --> 5561.62] God -[5561.62 --> 5562.62] the -[5562.62 --> 5563.62] only -[5563.62 --> 5564.62] wise -[5564.62 --> 5565.62] God -[5565.62 --> 5567.62] is -[5567.62 --> 5568.62] God -[5568.62 --> 5570.62] oh -[5570.62 --> 5572.62] unto -[5572.62 --> 5573.62] the -[5573.62 --> 5574.62] King -[5574.62 --> 5575.62] be -[5575.62 --> 5576.62] glory -[5576.62 --> 5577.62] and -[5577.62 --> 5578.62] honor -[5578.62 --> 5579.62] unto -[5579.62 --> 5580.62] the -[5580.62 --> 5581.62] King -[5581.62 --> 5582.62] forever -[5582.62 --> 5583.62] unto -[5583.62 --> 5585.62] the -[5585.62 --> 5586.62] King -[5586.62 --> 5587.62] be -[5587.62 --> 5588.62] glory -[5588.62 --> 5589.62] be -[5589.62 --> 5590.62] glory -[5590.62 --> 5591.62] and -[5591.62 --> 5592.62] honor -[5592.62 --> 5593.62] forever -[5593.62 --> 5595.62] forever -[5595.62 --> 5599.62] forever -[5599.62 --> 5601.62] forever -[5601.62 --> 5605.62] amen -[5605.62 --> 5607.62] amen -[5611.62 --> 5613.62] amen -[5618.62 --> 5623.62] amen -[5648.62 --> 5649.62] to -[5649.62 --> 5650.62] while -[5650.62 --> 5651.62] a -[5651.62 --> 5653.62] Sha -[5653.62 --> 5654.62] see -[5654.62 --> 5655.62] can -[5655.62 --> 5657.62] we -[5657.62 --> 5658.62] we -[5658.62 --> 5660.62] to -[5660.62 --> 5661.62] all -[5661.62 --> 5662.62] to -[5662.62 --> 5663.62] olly -[5663.62 --> 5664.62] share -[5664.62 --> 5667.62] her -[5668.62 --> 5669.62] tribe -[5670.62 --> 5672.48] cl -[5677.58 --> 5677.62] what -[5677.62 --> 5707.60] Thank you. -[5707.62 --> 5737.60] Thank you. -[5737.62 --> 5767.60] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - February 26, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - February 26, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0baf616483f89b4bef47d29327817009619706fc..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - February 26, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,99 +0,0 @@ -• The speaker sings about believing in God's love and strength despite feeling weak -• The singer asks God to set them free and heal their heart -• The speaker expresses joy and gratitude for God's love, which makes them want to sing and dance -• Kevin Lohbert introduces himself as the youth pastor at Langley Emanuel CRC -• Kevin announces some updates, including a canceled young adult Bible study due to weather -• Christianity Explored course starts this Wednesday at 7 p.m. -• Worship service at Sunridge Gardens on March 4th -• HCBC Youth Catechism and Belgic Confession tonight at 7 p.m. -• Evening prayer service on Wednesday, March 8th at 7 p.m. -• Coldest Night of the Year event raised almost $5,000 for Gateway of Hope -• Invitation to stand and receive God's greeting -• Worship and praise of God -• Love and greatness of God -• Faithfulness and kindness of God -• Commandments to honor God -• Sabbath day observance -• Honor parents -• Ten commandments (do not murder, commit adultery, steal, give false testimony, or covet) -• The story of Moses and the people's encounter with God -• A song about Jesus, including his crucifixion and resurrection -• A prayer for guidance and strength in following God's commandments -• A song about the gift of grace that Jesus offers, including redemption and salvation -• Reflections on the hope and peace found in trusting in Christ -• Lyrics about overcoming fear and death through faith in Christ -• Faith in Jesus Christ -• Hope for eternal life through Christ -• Trust in God's love and forgiveness -• Intercession of Christ on behalf of others -• Overcoming guilt and shame through faith -• Reconciliation with God through Jesus' sacrifice -• Christian Reformed Church's ministry to promote justice and hope -• Discussion of bad guys in children's worship time -• Reference to King David and King Saul in the book of Samuel -• Introduction to the theme that God may see bad guys differently -• Mention of personal losses within the community (Leanne Harris' dad and Pete Birkenpass' mom) -• Prayer for the community, including those who could not attend due to weather -• Prayer for church programs, leaders, and members -• Coldest Night of the Year event in the congregation -• Prayers for community needs, including homelessness and poverty -• Prayers for those grieving, including specific individuals -• Prayers for those ill, specifically Cy Visser's cancer treatment -• Prayers for mental illness and addiction sufferers -• Prayers for global relief efforts, including Syria, Turkey, and Ukraine -• Discussion of the importance of Romans 3 in understanding the gospel -• Reading and explanation of Romans 3:21-31 -• The law that requires faith, not works, for justification -• Jesus gives righteousness through faith in him -• Equality and inclusivity are cultural values, but questions arise about their meaning and application -• Different cultures and individuals have varying understandings of equality and progress -• Socioeconomic status, ethnicity, and ideologies create barriers to achieving true equality -• Human understanding of equality is limited by the brokenness of the world -• Polarization and division in society -• Difficulty in achieving unity due to differing perspectives and goals -• The gospel truth and the righteousness of God as a solution to societal divisions -• Transcending racial, social, and ideological boundaries through God's righteousness -• Human sinfulness and need for salvation -• Justification and its relationship to faith in Jesus Christ -• The exclusivity of Christ's gospel as a means of unity and equality -• Propitiation: God died to bear His own wrath for our sins, providing justice and fulfilling the law -• Atonement: Christ's perfect life and death made Him the perfect atonement for our sins, forgiving us and making us righteous in God's eyes -• Sin and punishment: Sin needs punishing, and God couldn't be indifferent because it would go against His holy character; God turned justice on Himself by having Christ bear His wrath -• The cross: The cross doesn't compromise God's love or wrath, but satisfies both; it shows God as both judge and justifier, caring enough to set standards and holding us accountable while also forgiving and restoring us through faith in Christ -• The object of faith is crucial for salvation -• Faith in Jesus Christ's life, death, and resurrection matters -• It's not the amount or size of faith that saves, but what it's in -• Faith is an instrument to reveal truth, but not a source of salvation -• Putting faith in one's own abilities leads to self-reliance, rather than reliance on Jesus -• Salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, regardless of the amount of faith -• Applying for opportunities (school, job, mortgage) involves showing what you've done -• Salvation in various religions (Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism) requires demonstrating good deeds and works -• Christian faith is unique because salvation comes from God's righteousness offered through Christ, not earned by human actions -• Jesus' life, death, and resurrection provide the basis for Christian salvation, apart from human effort or achievement -• The gospel is not about us trying harder or doing more, but receiving God's grace and being transformed by it. -• Many people misunderstand the gospel and believe they must add certain actions or beliefs to be saved (e.g. speaking in tongues, partaking in sacraments). -• Jesus plus nothing else saves; only faith in Jesus Christ is required for salvation. -• The Bible teaches that all are justified freely by God's grace through the redemption that came by Jesus Christ. -• This righteousness is available to everyone, regardless of their background or actions, and can be received through faith in Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. -• Jesus bore the wrath of God so that humans don't have to -• Accepting this truth leads to freedom from sin and death -• The weight of sin is gone, changing the individual's life -• This gift of righteousness changes how people live, talk, and honor God -• Unity as a body comes from being handed righteousness by Christ -• Salvation is available for anyone who accepts it through faith in Jesus -• The importance of glorifying God and living in obedience to Him -• Faith as the means by which people see God's hand at work in creation, history, and their lives -• The power of faith to overcome sin and death through the Messiah -• The role of the church in spreading the gospel and delivering captives -• Walking by faith rather than sight in all aspects of life until one's journey is complete -• Gift of righteousness and salvation -• Clean slate in God's eyes, being righteous -• Letting this change behavior and sharing with others -• Blessing from number six, thanking for prayers -• Prayer request information and availability -• The Lord's blessing, keeping, face shining upon, and peace giving -• Identity and belonging -• Relationship with a higher power (father, god) -• Hope and positivity -• Personal growth and self-awareness -• Gratitude and appreciation \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - February 26, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - February 26, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6bcbc47e5af4004368fa1305058b0ad6847742e3..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - February 26, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1579 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 5.00] I believe what you say of me -[5.00 --> 8.00] Oh, I believe -[8.00 --> 21.00] Taking all I have and now I'm laying it at your feet -[21.00 --> 29.50] You'll have every failure, God -[29.50 --> 33.00] You'll have every victory -[33.00 --> 43.44] You say I am loved when I can't feel a thing -[43.44 --> 49.88] You say I am strong when I think I am weak -[49.88 --> 56.46] You say I am held when I am falling short -[56.46 --> 63.12] When I don't belong, oh, you say I'm yours -[63.12 --> 72.88] And I believe, oh, I believe what you say of me -[72.88 --> 79.46] I believe, oh, I believe -[79.46 --> 86.30] Yes, I believe what you say of me -[86.30 --> 88.88] I believe -[88.88 --> 95.46] Oh, I believe what you say of me -[95.46 --> 102.04] Oh, I believe what you say of me -[102.04 --> 104.04] I believe what you say of me -[104.04 --> 106.04] I believe what you say of me -[106.04 --> 116.62] I believe what you say of me -[116.62 --> 120.62] I believe what you say of me -[120.62 --> 122.62] I believe what you say of me -[122.62 --> 137.20] Oh, I believe what you say of me -[137.20 --> 139.42] Over the mountains and the sea -[139.42 --> 142.16] Your river runs with love for me -[142.16 --> 145.10] And I will open up my heart -[145.10 --> 147.32] And let the healer set me free -[147.32 --> 150.02] I'm happy to be in the truth -[150.02 --> 152.76] And I will daily lift my hands -[152.76 --> 154.84] For I will always sing -[154.84 --> 157.28] When your love came down -[157.28 --> 160.78] Yeah -[160.78 --> 164.78] Yeah -[164.78 --> 172.94] I could say I'll be alone forever -[172.94 --> 176.68] Oh -[176.68 --> 186.68] Oh -[186.68 --> 188.68] Oh -[188.68 --> 190.68] Oh -[190.68 --> 192.68] Oh -[192.68 --> 194.68] Oh -[194.68 --> 196.68] Oh -[196.68 --> 198.68] Oh -[198.68 --> 200.68] Oh -[200.68 --> 202.68] Oh -[206.68 --> 208.68] Oh -[208.68 --> 212.68] Oh -[212.68 --> 214.68] Oh -[214.68 --> 216.68] Oh -[218.68 --> 222.68] Oh -[222.68 --> 224.68] Oh -[226.68 --> 228.68] Oh -[228.68 --> 230.68] Oh -[230.68 --> 236.32] I can sing of your love forever -[236.32 --> 241.64] I can sing of your love forever -[241.64 --> 246.94] I can sing of your love forever -[246.94 --> 251.36] I can sing of your love -[251.36 --> 257.54] Oh, I feel like dancing, yeah -[257.54 --> 262.50] It's foolishness, I know -[262.50 --> 267.70] But when the world is in life -[267.70 --> 270.52] They will dance with joy -[270.52 --> 273.28] Like we're dancing now -[273.28 --> 277.92] I can sing of your love forever -[277.92 --> 283.56] I can sing of your love forever -[283.56 --> 289.30] I can sing of your love forever -[289.30 --> 293.88] I can sing of your love forever -[294.46 --> 299.38] I will sing of your love forever -[299.38 --> 302.56] I can sing of your love forever -[302.56 --> 305.60] I'll lift my hands and raise your hand -[305.60 --> 309.98] I will sing of your love forever -[309.98 --> 314.90] I will sing of your love -[314.90 --> 320.60] I will sing of your love -[320.60 --> 322.60] I will sing of your love -[335.60 --> 345.54] I will sing of your love forever -[345.54 --> 355.94] I will sing of your love forever -[355.94 --> 363.72] I will sing of your love forever -[363.72 --> 393.70] Praise the name of God. -[393.72 --> 423.70] Praise the name of God. -[423.72 --> 429.44] Holiness, holiness is what I long for. -[430.36 --> 434.02] Holiness is what I need. -[436.96 --> 443.80] Holiness, holiness is what you want from me. -[443.80 --> 456.32] Holiness, holiness is what I long for. -[457.78 --> 461.44] Holiness is what I need. -[461.44 --> 491.42] Holiness, holiness is what I need. -[491.94 --> 493.98] Whether to make it to church this morning. -[494.08 --> 496.60] And to those of you online, welcome as well. -[496.66 --> 501.64] Hopefully you're cuddled up with a blanket and a cup of tea and are tuning in as well this morning. -[502.16 --> 504.98] Before we start, my name is Kevin Lohbert. -[505.10 --> 508.22] I am the youth pastor here at Langley Emanuel CRC. -[508.28 --> 510.00] And it's great to see you this morning. -[510.32 --> 513.98] I've got a few announcements once I turn my page. -[514.04 --> 516.34] Actually, I've got a lot of announcements, but I'll be quick. -[516.40 --> 517.26] Are we ready? Here we go. -[517.40 --> 520.96] First of all, young adult Bible study was supposed to happen after church today. -[521.12 --> 523.32] That has been canceled due to weather. -[523.44 --> 526.72] However, if you are a young adult, or you feel like a young adult, -[526.86 --> 528.32] or you just want a free lunch, -[528.62 --> 531.04] you are still welcome to go to Sarah Molenkamp's house -[531.04 --> 532.94] because she made a ton of soup for that event. -[532.94 --> 536.18] So, you can head over to the Molenkamp's, right, Sarah? -[537.04 --> 538.76] Maybe not the last part, she said. -[538.76 --> 540.34] But talk to her after church. -[540.42 --> 541.42] She would love to have you over. -[541.84 --> 543.70] Come get a bowl of soup at her place. -[543.80 --> 548.34] Second of all, there was a request in the e-bulletin for a billet for someone at classes. -[548.68 --> 549.94] That request has been filled. -[550.26 --> 552.48] So, thank you so much for whomever is doing that. -[552.82 --> 554.42] No need to reply to that anymore. -[554.62 --> 558.76] Thirdly, Pastor Chris is starting up a course called Christianity Explored. -[559.40 --> 561.68] There are a number of people who signed up to take that. -[562.04 --> 566.44] That starts this coming Wednesday at 7 p.m. till 8.15 p.m. -[566.44 --> 569.04] If you are interested in that, please talk to Pastor Chris -[569.04 --> 571.94] and see if you can join that on Wednesday as well. -[573.00 --> 574.76] Worship at Sunridge Gardens. -[574.94 --> 577.80] There's a home up the hill here where a number of our members join. -[577.88 --> 580.60] We lead worship there once a month the first Saturday. -[581.06 --> 584.52] That is happening this coming Saturday, March 4th at 2 p.m. -[584.52 --> 586.88] All are welcome to join that. -[587.02 --> 589.52] So, please come out to that if you would like. -[590.48 --> 591.26] HCBC Youth. -[591.36 --> 594.86] We've got Catechism, Belgic Confession tonight here at 7 p.m. -[594.98 --> 596.00] Hopefully, you can come out. -[596.06 --> 596.66] We'll see you then. -[597.52 --> 598.82] Wednesday, March 8th. -[598.84 --> 599.52] Another thing. -[599.90 --> 602.58] We are going to be doing an evening prayer service. -[602.70 --> 604.08] Wednesday, March the 8th. -[604.12 --> 605.82] Keep your eyes on the bulletin for that. -[606.12 --> 607.96] That will start at 7 p.m. -[608.02 --> 608.62] We'll see you there. -[608.62 --> 615.94] And finally, a big thank you to all of you who supported, prayed for, and walked at the -[615.94 --> 617.74] coldest night of the year last night. -[618.02 --> 622.06] Our church raised almost $5,000 for the Gateway of Hope, which is incredible. -[623.84 --> 624.32] Yeah. -[625.60 --> 628.38] It was a very cool event to be at. -[628.42 --> 631.44] There's a lot of people from all over Langley there as well. -[631.86 --> 636.68] And it was just a good time and a good experience there for everybody involved. -[636.76 --> 637.54] So, thank you for that. -[637.54 --> 643.48] I would love to invite you to stand now, please, and receive God's greeting this morning. -[647.44 --> 650.18] God's greeting this morning comes from Revelation 1. -[650.52 --> 656.94] Grace and peace to you from him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven -[656.94 --> 661.90] spirits that are before his throne, and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, -[662.32 --> 666.16] the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. -[666.16 --> 671.28] And all God's people said, please take a minute to just greet those around you this morning. -[671.28 --> 671.60] Amen. -[671.60 --> 671.88] Amen. -[671.88 --> 672.10] Amen. -[672.10 --> 672.42] Amen. -[672.42 --> 672.50] Amen. -[672.50 --> 702.48] Thank you. -[702.50 --> 703.78] Psalm 118. -[732.50 --> 733.50] For he is good. -[733.82 --> 735.76] His love endures forever. -[735.76 --> 763.76] Come, now is the time to worship. -[763.76 --> 773.76] Now is the time to give your heart -[773.76 --> 781.26] Come, just as you are to worship -[781.26 --> 790.76] Come, just as you are before your God -[790.76 --> 799.86] Come, one day every tongue will confess you are God -[799.86 --> 802.76] One day every knee will bow -[802.76 --> 812.76] Still the greatest treasure remains for those who gladly choose you now -[812.76 --> 821.86] Come, now is the time to worship -[821.86 --> 830.86] Come, now is the time to give your heart -[830.86 --> 839.96] Come, just as you are to worship -[839.96 --> 847.96] Come, just as you are before your God -[847.96 --> 853.06] Come, just as you are before your God -[853.06 --> 857.06] One day every tongue will confess you are God -[857.06 --> 861.06] One day every knee will bow -[861.06 --> 869.06] Still the greatest treasure remains for those who gladly choose you now -[869.06 --> 874.16] Willingly we choose to surrender our lives -[874.16 --> 878.16] Willingly our knees will bow -[878.16 --> 881.16] With our hearts, soul, mind and strength -[881.16 --> 887.26] We gladly choose you now -[887.26 --> 896.36] Come, now is the time to worship -[896.36 --> 905.36] Come, now is the time to give your heart -[905.36 --> 912.36] Come, just as you are to worship -[912.36 --> 921.46] Come, just as you are before your God -[921.46 --> 923.46] Come -[923.46 --> 924.46] Come -[924.46 --> 928.06] Come, just as you are before your God -[928.06 --> 937.56] Come, just as you are before your love -[937.56 --> 941.96] Come, just as you are before your honor -[941.96 --> 942.56] Help -[942.56 --> 943.56] in your name -[943.56 --> 947.56] You areины -[947.56 --> 948.96] If I amcca -[948.96 --> 960.86] Bless the Lord, O my soul -[960.86 --> 964.20] O my soul -[964.20 --> 969.78] Worship his holy name -[969.78 --> 973.78] Sing like never before -[973.78 --> 977.48] O my soul -[977.48 --> 983.28] I'll worship your holy name -[983.28 --> 990.48] The sun comes up -[990.48 --> 994.40] It's a new day dawning -[994.40 --> 1000.44] It's time to sing your song again -[1000.44 --> 1003.76] Whatever may pass -[1003.76 --> 1008.56] And whatever lies before me -[1008.56 --> 1011.88] Let me be singing -[1011.88 --> 1016.62] When the evening comes -[1016.62 --> 1023.56] Bless the Lord, O my soul -[1023.56 --> 1026.76] O my soul -[1026.76 --> 1031.36] Worship his holy name -[1031.36 --> 1036.46] Sing like never before -[1036.46 --> 1039.80] O my soul -[1039.80 --> 1045.60] I'll worship your holy name -[1045.60 --> 1052.76] You're rich in love -[1052.76 --> 1056.34] And you're so too angry -[1056.34 --> 1058.60] Your name is great -[1058.60 --> 1062.40] And your heart is kind -[1062.40 --> 1065.50] For all your goodness -[1065.50 --> 1069.40] I will keep on singing -[1069.40 --> 1073.56] Ten thousand reasons -[1073.56 --> 1077.40] For my heart to find -[1077.40 --> 1085.20] Bless the Lord, O my soul -[1085.20 --> 1088.20] O my soul -[1088.20 --> 1093.00] Worship his holy name -[1093.00 --> 1097.80] Sing like never before -[1097.80 --> 1099.80] Oh my soul -[1099.80 --> 1100.60] Oh my soul -[1100.60 --> 1105.60] I'll worship your holy name -[1105.60 --> 1111.40] And on that day -[1111.40 --> 1114.28] And on that day -[1114.28 --> 1118.10] When my strength is failing -[1118.10 --> 1120.40] The end draws near -[1120.40 --> 1124.30] And my time has come -[1124.30 --> 1126.30] Still my soul -[1126.30 --> 1127.40] Still my soul -[1127.40 --> 1129.30] Will sing your praise -[1129.30 --> 1133.50] Behold the Lord, O my soul -[1133.50 --> 1134.50] And on that day -[1134.50 --> 1136.10] Ten thousand reasons -[1136.10 --> 1136.70] And on that day -[1136.70 --> 1137.10] And on that day -[1137.10 --> 1138.10] And on that day -[1138.10 --> 1139.10] And on that day -[1139.10 --> 1140.16] And on that day -[1140.16 --> 1141.10] And on that day -[1141.10 --> 1141.50] Amen -[1141.50 --> 1147.82] Bless the Lord, O my soul -[1147.82 --> 1159.62] Bless the Lord, O my soul -[1159.62 --> 1163.62] Oh my soul -[1163.62 --> 1169.12] I'll worship your holy name -[1169.12 --> 1173.62] Bless the Lord, O my soul -[1173.62 --> 1176.62] Oh my soul -[1176.62 --> 1182.42] Worship his holy name -[1182.42 --> 1186.02] Sing like never before -[1186.02 --> 1189.52] Oh my soul -[1189.52 --> 1195.42] I'll worship your holy name -[1195.42 --> 1202.02] I'll worship your holy name -[1202.02 --> 1207.82] Lord, I'll worship your holy name -[1207.82 --> 1211.62] You may have a seat -[1211.62 --> 1223.32] And God spoke all of these words -[1223.32 --> 1227.64] I am the Lord, your God -[1227.64 --> 1229.30] Who brought you out of Egypt -[1229.30 --> 1231.72] Out of that land of slavery -[1231.72 --> 1235.72] You shall have no other gods before me -[1235.72 --> 1239.06] You shall not make for yourself -[1239.06 --> 1241.36] An image in the form of anything -[1241.36 --> 1242.32] In heaven above -[1242.32 --> 1244.26] Or on the earth beneath -[1244.26 --> 1246.10] Or in the waters below -[1246.10 --> 1249.18] You shall not bow down -[1249.18 --> 1251.30] To them or worship them -[1251.30 --> 1253.62] For I, the Lord your God -[1253.62 --> 1254.80] Am a jealous God -[1254.80 --> 1256.42] Punishing the children -[1256.42 --> 1257.70] For the sin of the parents -[1257.70 --> 1260.38] To the third and fourth generation -[1260.38 --> 1262.00] Of those who hate me -[1262.00 --> 1265.30] But showing steadfast love -[1265.30 --> 1267.50] To thousands of generations -[1267.50 --> 1268.80] Of those who love me -[1268.80 --> 1270.70] And keep my commandments -[1270.70 --> 1274.10] You shall not misuse -[1274.10 --> 1275.94] The name of the Lord your God -[1275.94 --> 1278.38] For the Lord will not hold -[1278.38 --> 1279.40] Anyone guiltless -[1279.40 --> 1281.54] Who misuses his name -[1281.54 --> 1284.62] Remember the Sabbath day -[1284.62 --> 1285.72] By keeping it holy -[1285.72 --> 1288.32] Six days you shall labor -[1288.32 --> 1289.82] And do all your work -[1289.82 --> 1291.02] But the seventh day -[1291.02 --> 1292.16] Is a Sabbath day -[1292.16 --> 1293.94] To the Lord your God -[1293.94 --> 1297.02] On it you shall not do any work -[1297.02 --> 1297.96] Neither you -[1297.96 --> 1299.42] Nor your son or daughter -[1299.42 --> 1301.70] Nor your male or female servant -[1301.70 --> 1303.26] Nor your animals -[1303.26 --> 1304.74] Nor any foreigner -[1304.74 --> 1306.12] Residing in your town -[1306.12 --> 1308.46] For in six days -[1308.46 --> 1309.86] The Lord made the heavens -[1309.86 --> 1310.64] And the earth -[1310.64 --> 1313.28] The sea and all that is in them -[1313.28 --> 1315.94] But he rested on the seventh day -[1315.94 --> 1320.10] Therefore the Lord blessed -[1320.10 --> 1320.96] The Sabbath day -[1320.96 --> 1322.02] And made it holy -[1322.02 --> 1324.44] Honor your father -[1324.44 --> 1325.32] And your mother -[1325.32 --> 1327.34] So that you may live long -[1327.34 --> 1328.02] In the land -[1328.02 --> 1330.00] The Lord your God -[1330.00 --> 1330.84] Is giving you -[1330.84 --> 1333.02] You shall not murder -[1333.02 --> 1335.94] You shall not commit adultery -[1335.94 --> 1337.50] You shall not steal -[1337.50 --> 1340.12] You shall not give false testimony -[1340.12 --> 1341.08] Against your neighbor -[1341.08 --> 1342.88] You shall not covet -[1342.88 --> 1343.96] Your neighbor's house -[1343.96 --> 1345.54] You shall not covet -[1345.54 --> 1346.42] Your neighbor's wife -[1346.42 --> 1348.94] Or his male or female servant -[1348.94 --> 1350.88] His ox or donkey -[1350.88 --> 1353.00] Or anything that belongs -[1353.00 --> 1353.88] To your neighbor -[1353.88 --> 1356.42] What the people saw -[1356.42 --> 1357.74] When the people saw -[1357.74 --> 1358.72] The thunder and lightning -[1358.72 --> 1359.84] And heard the trumpet -[1359.84 --> 1361.98] And saw the mountain in smoke -[1361.98 --> 1363.68] They trembled in fear -[1363.68 --> 1366.06] They stayed at a distance -[1366.06 --> 1367.34] And said to Moses -[1367.34 --> 1369.50] Speak to us yourself -[1369.50 --> 1371.34] And we will listen -[1371.34 --> 1374.38] But do not have God speak to us -[1374.38 --> 1375.78] Or we will die -[1375.78 --> 1378.40] Please rise for our next song -[1378.40 --> 1396.50] On the valley -[1396.94 --> 1399.72] Oh sacred -[1399.72 --> 1412.20] O sacred head now wounded -[1412.20 --> 1418.56] With grief and shame weighed down -[1418.56 --> 1424.96] Now scornfully surrounded -[1424.96 --> 1431.30] With thorns your only crown -[1431.30 --> 1438.02] O sacred head, what glory -[1438.02 --> 1444.18] And blessing you have known -[1444.18 --> 1450.72] Yet though despised and gory -[1450.72 --> 1457.06] I claim you as my own -[1457.06 --> 1464.06] My Lord, what you did suffer -[1464.06 --> 1470.06] Was all for sinners' gain -[1470.06 --> 1477.28] Mine, mine was the transgression -[1477.28 --> 1483.36] But yours the deathly pain -[1483.36 --> 1489.40] So here I kneel my Savior -[1489.40 --> 1496.00] For I deserve your place -[1496.00 --> 1502.48] Look on me with your favor -[1502.48 --> 1508.74] And save me by your grace -[1508.74 --> 1516.60] What language shall I borrow -[1516.60 --> 1522.88] To thank you, dearest friend -[1522.88 --> 1529.58] For this your dying sorrow -[1529.58 --> 1535.74] Your mercy without end -[1535.74 --> 1542.22] Lord, make me yours forever -[1542.22 --> 1547.90] A loyal servant true -[1547.90 --> 1555.22] And let me never, ever -[1555.22 --> 1561.74] Outlive my love for you -[1561.74 --> 1566.76] And continuing from Exodus 20 -[1566.76 --> 1568.70] Verse 20 says -[1568.70 --> 1570.40] Moses said to the people -[1570.40 --> 1572.08] Do not be afraid -[1572.08 --> 1574.44] God has come to test you -[1574.44 --> 1576.28] So that the fear of God -[1576.28 --> 1577.40] Will be with you -[1577.40 --> 1579.08] To keep you from sinning -[1579.62 --> 1580.80] Let's pray -[1580.80 --> 1584.20] Father, we thank you -[1584.20 --> 1586.46] For the promise of being with us -[1586.46 --> 1589.18] Regardless of how we have fallen short -[1589.18 --> 1590.58] And disappointed you -[1590.58 --> 1593.56] We do not keep your commandments -[1593.56 --> 1595.80] Yet you still love us -[1595.80 --> 1597.38] And draw us to yourself -[1597.38 --> 1599.82] Thank you for the Holy Spirit's -[1599.82 --> 1601.06] Presence in our lives -[1601.06 --> 1603.36] That convicts us of our sin -[1603.36 --> 1605.46] Thank you for your mercy -[1605.46 --> 1607.00] So undeserving -[1607.00 --> 1609.28] In Jesus' name we pray -[1609.28 --> 1610.36] Amen -[1610.36 --> 1640.34] What gift of grace is Jesus my name? -[1640.34 --> 1642.34] He is my redeemer -[1642.34 --> 1645.56] There is no more -[1645.56 --> 1649.34] For heaven now to give -[1649.34 --> 1652.34] He is my joy -[1652.34 --> 1656.34] My righteousness and freedom -[1656.34 --> 1659.34] My steadfast love -[1659.34 --> 1663.34] My deep and boundless peace -[1663.34 --> 1666.34] To this I hope -[1666.34 --> 1670.34] My hope is only Jesus -[1670.34 --> 1676.34] For my life is wholly bound to His -[1676.34 --> 1682.34] Oh how strange and divine -[1682.34 --> 1685.34] I can sing all this might -[1685.34 --> 1687.34] Yet not I -[1687.34 --> 1692.34] But through Christ in me -[1692.34 --> 1705.72] The night is dark -[1705.72 --> 1709.14] But I am not forsaken -[1709.14 --> 1712.62] For by my side -[1712.62 --> 1715.34] The Savior He will stay -[1715.34 --> 1718.34] I labor on -[1718.34 --> 1719.62] I labor on -[1719.62 --> 1720.34] In weakness -[1720.34 --> 1720.96] In weakness -[1720.96 --> 1723.34] And rejoicing -[1723.34 --> 1726.34] For in my need -[1726.34 --> 1729.34] His power is displayed -[1729.34 --> 1731.34] To this I hope -[1731.34 --> 1733.34] To this I hope -[1733.34 --> 1737.34] My shepherd will defend me -[1737.34 --> 1744.34] Through the deepest valley He will be -[1744.34 --> 1748.34] For the night has been won -[1748.34 --> 1751.34] And I shall overcome -[1751.34 --> 1753.34] Yet not I -[1753.34 --> 1757.34] But through Christ in me -[1757.34 --> 1771.34] No fate I dread -[1771.34 --> 1774.34] I know I am forgiven -[1774.34 --> 1778.34] The future's sure -[1778.34 --> 1783.34] The price it has been paid -[1783.34 --> 1785.34] For Jesus bled -[1785.34 --> 1789.34] And suffered for my pardon -[1789.34 --> 1792.34] And He was raised -[1792.34 --> 1796.34] To overthrow the grave -[1796.34 --> 1799.34] To this I hold -[1799.34 --> 1803.34] My sin has been defeated -[1803.34 --> 1805.34] Jesus now -[1805.34 --> 1806.34] Jesus now -[1806.34 --> 1808.34] And ever -[1808.34 --> 1810.34] Is my King -[1810.34 --> 1813.34] All the chains -[1813.34 --> 1814.34] Are released -[1814.34 --> 1816.34] I can sing -[1816.34 --> 1818.34] I am free -[1818.34 --> 1820.34] Yet not I -[1820.34 --> 1823.34] But through Christ in me -[1823.34 --> 1837.34] With every breath -[1837.34 --> 1841.34] I long to follow Jesus -[1841.34 --> 1844.34] For He has said -[1844.34 --> 1848.34] That He will bring me home -[1848.34 --> 1851.34] And day by day -[1851.34 --> 1855.34] I know He will renew me -[1855.34 --> 1857.34] Until I stand -[1857.34 --> 1861.34] With joy before the throne -[1861.34 --> 1864.34] To this I hold -[1864.34 --> 1868.34] My hope is only Jesus -[1868.34 --> 1874.34] All the glory evermore to Him -[1874.34 --> 1879.34] When the race is complete -[1879.34 --> 1882.34] Still my lips shall repeat -[1882.34 --> 1884.34] Yet not I -[1884.34 --> 1886.34] But through Christ in me -[1886.34 --> 1887.34] Still my lips shall repeat -[1887.34 --> 1888.34] Yet not I -[1888.34 --> 1889.34] But through Christ in me -[1889.34 --> 1891.34] To this I hold -[1891.34 --> 1894.34] My hope is only Jesus -[1894.34 --> 1900.34] All the glory evermore to Him -[1900.34 --> 1906.34] When the race is complete -[1906.34 --> 1910.34] Still my lips shall repeat -[1910.34 --> 1911.34] Yet not I -[1911.34 --> 1916.34] But through Christ in me -[1916.34 --> 1921.34] When the race is complete -[1921.34 --> 1924.34] Still my lips shall repeat -[1924.34 --> 1925.34] Yet not I -[1925.34 --> 1927.34] But through Christ in me -[1927.34 --> 1930.34] For through Christ in me -[1930.34 --> 1932.34] You will be -[1932.34 --> 1934.34] To me -[1934.34 --> 1935.34] And through Christ in me -[1935.34 --> 1936.34] To me -[1936.34 --> 1937.34] To me -[1937.34 --> 1938.34] To me -[1938.34 --> 1939.34] To me -[1939.34 --> 1942.34] Ask upon God -[1942.34 --> 1968.34] You will fear -[1968.34 --> 1973.34] shake off your guilty fears -[1973.34 --> 1976.34] the bleeding sacrifice -[1976.34 --> 1980.34] on my behalf appears -[1980.34 --> 1984.34] before the throne my shorty stands -[1984.34 --> 1987.34] before the throne my shorty stands -[1987.34 --> 1992.34] my name is written on his hand -[1992.34 --> 1999.34] arise arise arise arise -[1999.34 --> 2000.34] arise arise arise -[2000.34 --> 2002.34] arise arise arise -[2002.34 --> 2004.34] arise arise arise -[2004.34 --> 2008.34] arise arise my soul arise -[2008.34 --> 2012.34] shake off your guilty fears and rise -[2012.34 --> 2018.34] the heaven is so far -[2018.34 --> 2021.34] that is the word of God -[2021.34 --> 2022.34] that is the word of God -[2022.34 --> 2024.34] for me to intercede -[2024.34 --> 2026.34] his all redeeming love -[2026.34 --> 2028.34] his precious blood to plead -[2028.34 --> 2032.34] his blood atones for every race -[2032.34 --> 2035.34] his blood atones for every race -[2035.34 --> 2037.34] his blood atones for every race -[2037.34 --> 2041.34] and sprinkles now the throne of grace -[2041.34 --> 2046.34] arise arise arise -[2046.34 --> 2050.34] arise arise arise my soul arise -[2050.34 --> 2057.34] arise arise arise arise my soul arise -[2057.34 --> 2063.34] shake off your guilty fears and rise -[2063.34 --> 2067.34] our bleeding wounds he bears -[2067.34 --> 2071.34] received on calvary -[2071.34 --> 2074.34] their poor eventual prayers -[2074.34 --> 2078.34] they strongly plead for me -[2078.34 --> 2082.34] forgive him oh forgive they cry -[2082.34 --> 2085.34] forgive him oh forgive they cry -[2085.34 --> 2086.34] forgive him oh forgive they cry -[2086.34 --> 2091.34] don't let that ransom sinner die -[2091.34 --> 2094.34] arise arise arise my soul arise -[2094.34 --> 2098.34] arise arise my soul arise -[2098.34 --> 2102.34] arise arise my soul arise -[2102.34 --> 2106.34] arise my soul arise -[2106.34 --> 2110.34] shake off your guilty fears and rise -[2110.34 --> 2112.34] my God is reconciled his pardoning voice I hear -[2112.34 --> 2119.34] my God is reconciled his pardoning voice I hear -[2119.34 --> 2127.34] he owns me for his child I can no longer fear -[2127.34 --> 2133.34] with confidence I now draw nigh with confidence I now draw nigh -[2133.34 --> 2136.34] a father come father -[2136.34 --> 2137.34] I try -[2137.34 --> 2139.34] now draw nigh my Father -[2139.34 --> 2140.34] my Father -[2140.34 --> 2141.30] my Father -[2141.34 --> 2149.14] if随 -[2149.14 --> 2150.74] remarks a -[2150.74 --> 2152.34] quantidade of -[2152.34 --> 2153.86] systems I heard -[2154.34 --> 2156.34] ...... -[2156.34 --> 2162.34] your guilty fears and rights -[2163.46 --> 2170.34] you may have a seat -[2186.34 --> 2193.34] you -[2206.34 --> 2213.98] good morning my name is clam I'm one of the deacons here at Emanuel first -[2213.98 --> 2218.78] offering this morning is for the budget and ministries of Emanuel the second -[2218.78 --> 2223.82] offering is for justice and hope Sunday which is on the first Sunday of Lent -[2223.82 --> 2228.98] every year it is a ministry of the Christian Reformed Church in Canada a -[2228.98 --> 2235.82] center for public dialogue Psalm 33 5 says the Lord loves righteousness and -[2235.82 --> 2242.24] justice the earth is full of his unfailing love these people are reformed -[2242.24 --> 2248.00] Christians who believe everyone is created in the image of God from this -[2248.00 --> 2253.16] foundation they work to promote all people through dialogue and advocacy in -[2253.16 --> 2259.70] Canada they believe that God calls all of us to be engaged citizens and stand with -[2259.70 --> 2265.34] vulnerable and marginalized people in our communities their goal is to present a -[2265.34 --> 2273.58] positive voice of faith in Canadian public life Hebrews 6 10 for God is not -[2273.58 --> 2279.44] unjust so far as to forget your work and the love you have shown towards his name -[2279.44 --> 2286.72] in having ministered and and still ministering to the Saints thank you -[2287.44 --> 2289.44] you -[2289.44 --> 2291.44] you -[2291.44 --> 2293.44] you -[2293.44 --> 2295.44] you -[2295.44 --> 2297.44] you -[2297.44 --> 2299.44] you -[2299.44 --> 2301.44] you -[2301.44 --> 2303.44] you -[2303.44 --> 2305.44] you -[2305.44 --> 2315.44] you -[2315.44 --> 2319.44] you -[2319.44 --> 2325.44] you -[2325.44 --> 2329.44] you -[2329.44 --> 2331.44] you -[2331.44 --> 2333.44] you -[2333.44 --> 2359.44] you -[2359.44 --> 2361.44] you -[2361.44 --> 2362.44] you -[2362.44 --> 2364.44] you -[2364.44 --> 2390.44] you -[2390.44 --> 2391.44] you -[2391.44 --> 2392.44] you -[2392.44 --> 2394.44] you -[2394.44 --> 2398.44] you -[2398.44 --> 2420.44] you -[2420.44 --> 2421.44] you -[2421.44 --> 2422.44] you -[2422.44 --> 2428.44] you -[2428.44 --> 2430.44] you -[2430.44 --> 2432.44] you -[2432.44 --> 2450.44] you -[2450.44 --> 2451.44] you -[2451.44 --> 2452.44] you -[2452.44 --> 2458.44] you -[2458.44 --> 2460.44] you -[2460.44 --> 2462.44] you -[2462.44 --> 2480.44] you -[2480.44 --> 2481.44] you -[2481.44 --> 2483.44] you -[2483.44 --> 2487.44] you -[2487.44 --> 2493.44] you -[2493.44 --> 2497.44] you -[2497.44 --> 2501.44] you -[2501.44 --> 2507.44] you -[2507.44 --> 2509.44] you -[2509.44 --> 2510.44] you -[2510.44 --> 2516.44] you -[2516.44 --> 2518.44] you -[2518.44 --> 2530.44] you -[2530.44 --> 2532.44] you -[2532.44 --> 2534.44] you -[2534.44 --> 2536.44] you -[2536.44 --> 2538.44] you -[2538.44 --> 2544.44] you -[2544.44 --> 2546.44] you -[2546.44 --> 2558.44] you -[2558.44 --> 2560.44] know what you... -[2560.44 --> 2562.44] you're the -[2562.44 --> 2564.44] you can -[2564.44 --> 2570.96] there. There's some pictures that are going to pop up and you tell me who are these people. -[2573.18 --> 2581.62] Who is that guy? Is his name the Lion King? No, no. Who is that guy or guy? Lion. Scar. -[2583.08 --> 2588.66] Who is he in the Lion King? He's a bad guy. He's okay. He's the bad guy. -[2588.66 --> 2599.48] Oh, yes. Simba's uncle. It's so confusing. Next picture. Who is this character? Ursula. -[2600.40 --> 2608.80] Yeah, probably like the worst one out there. An enemy. Yes. Okay. These are great words. -[2609.66 --> 2617.42] Next picture. Last one. Who is this? Mayor Humdinger. And who is he? -[2617.42 --> 2628.08] A bad guy. He's also a bad guy? Oh. Is he in where? In Paw Patrol show. Yeah, for sure. Oh, boy. Oh, boy. -[2628.16 --> 2632.92] All these bad guys. Why are we talking about all these bad guys today? I don't know. It's so confusing -[2632.92 --> 2640.38] because we have been talking in Children's Worship Time about the book of Samuel and about all the big -[2640.38 --> 2647.14] themes in there around King David, right? And who's the other king in there that we've been talking -[2647.14 --> 2653.14] about? There's King David. And who was the king before him? King Saul. Yeah. So today we're -[2653.14 --> 2656.18] going to talk a little bit more about that. I want to talk a little bit about bad guys, -[2657.04 --> 2662.14] but how bad guys maybe aren't always what we think they are. And maybe God sees them differently. -[2662.98 --> 2667.62] So let's stand and we'll do the Children's Blessing and then we'll head off to Children's Worship -[2667.62 --> 2675.12] the Children's Blessing and then we'll head off to Children's Worship time. Ready? May the Lord be with you. -[2675.12 --> 2705.10] Thank you. -[2705.12 --> 2711.10] As some of you may have noticed in the bulletin, there was a mention of Leanne Harris' dad passing away last Thursday. -[2712.72 --> 2715.20] We'd like to pray for that family and their grief. -[2715.42 --> 2729.94] We also have to mention that Pete Birkenpass and his mom, also Wes's sister, Matt's grandmother, passed away last Friday after three weeks being in the hospital. -[2729.94 --> 2731.98] So we'd like to pray for that family as well. -[2733.36 --> 2735.02] Let us come to the Lord in prayer. -[2735.12 --> 2741.04] Lord, we come before you as a smaller group today. -[2741.46 --> 2745.62] Lord, the weather affected a few people being able to make it. -[2746.14 --> 2747.90] But Lord, we know that you are sovereign. -[2748.90 --> 2751.92] You are in control of everything and you are a great God. -[2752.32 --> 2755.42] We give you the praise and honor and glory that is due your name. -[2755.42 --> 2759.80] Lord, we come as humble and contrite believers. -[2760.60 --> 2761.86] We sin in our hearts. -[2762.76 --> 2771.90] Lord, not always wanted to do what is right, but with faith we work to live our lives according to your will. -[2772.86 --> 2774.74] Lord, we ask your blessing on this service. -[2774.94 --> 2779.76] Lord, we ask a blessing on the children's worship time and the leaders and teachers there. -[2779.76 --> 2783.52] Lord, those young hearts may be able to know your will too for their lives. -[2785.52 --> 2791.92] Lord, there's many other aspects of our church life that people are busy with. -[2792.48 --> 2798.68] Lord, we pray for cadets and gems programs, coffee break programs, seniors ministries. -[2798.68 --> 2805.76] Lord, we are thankful for the many people that come and give their time and gifts to be able to serve those ministries. -[2806.40 --> 2810.06] That we may be able to reach out to many hearts and lives. -[2811.06 --> 2816.18] Lord, we are thankful for the walk that Coldest Night of the Year was able to have -[2816.18 --> 2819.58] and many people in our congregation was able to give of their time and energy. -[2819.58 --> 2823.16] Lord, this is a need that we have in our community. -[2824.04 --> 2832.60] Lord, we are also called to support those that are in need, those who are homeless and have not much hope in life. -[2833.28 --> 2838.94] We pray that we may be effective witnesses as we give of our time and energy to these ministries. -[2840.80 --> 2844.24] Lord, we know that there are many people that are grieving. -[2844.24 --> 2850.82] Lord, we think especially of Leon Harris and her family as they grieve the loss of her dad who has been sick for a while. -[2851.68 --> 2855.16] Lord, we pray for comfort and strength for that family. -[2855.46 --> 2864.14] We pray for Pete and Doreen and Matt and Anna and also Wes and Lena as they grieve the loss of a loved one. -[2865.42 --> 2867.40] Lord, we pray for comfort and blessing there too. -[2868.80 --> 2872.16] And Lord, there's others in our congregation that have grief in their hearts. -[2872.16 --> 2875.78] Sometimes from years past, we pray for comfort for each one. -[2876.74 --> 2879.92] Your spirit may work and support and uphold them too. -[2881.08 --> 2884.16] We pray for those that are ill. -[2885.02 --> 2888.02] Lord, some people are battling with cancer and other illnesses. -[2888.34 --> 2889.32] We pray for Cy Visser. -[2890.52 --> 2892.88] That his cancer treatment may be effective for healing. -[2893.72 --> 2897.68] Be with others that are battling colds and flus. -[2897.68 --> 2901.94] Lord, that goes around and many people suffer. -[2902.90 --> 2906.92] We pray for those that are suffering with mental illness and addictions. -[2907.72 --> 2911.52] Lord, bring comfort that we may be a blessing to those that are in need. -[2912.32 --> 2919.50] That we can be a helping hand and a warm heart and helping those who are also in that need. -[2919.50 --> 2928.88] Lord, we think of world relief programs that are happening, especially with the earthquake in Syria and Turkey. -[2929.54 --> 2932.78] Lord, many lives are lost and there is much need there. -[2933.72 --> 2938.78] May we be a giving community to help those in need across the globe. -[2939.78 --> 2944.56] We pray for the people in Ukraine that are still being embattled. -[2944.84 --> 2946.52] We pray for peace there. -[2946.52 --> 2953.30] Lord, we pray that your spirit may work in various ministries that are bringing your gospel around the world. -[2954.12 --> 2959.54] Lord, to those that don't know you, we ask that those ministries may be blessed in their work. -[2960.34 --> 2963.38] We pray for Pastor Chris too as he preaches your word. -[2964.58 --> 2966.82] Lord, that your word may work into our hearts and lives. -[2967.50 --> 2973.06] That we may be able to share the blessing of the gospel that you have given for us. -[2973.06 --> 2979.76] Lord, may we go out this coming week to serve you in everything that we say and do. -[2980.82 --> 2985.32] That we may show your light to those who don't know your will. -[2986.60 --> 2990.78] Lord, we do this as humble Christians and humble believers, humble sinners. -[2992.16 --> 2995.80] We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ who gave his life for us. -[2996.78 --> 2998.40] This we ask in your name alone. -[2998.88 --> 2999.12] Amen. -[3003.06 --> 3026.50] We are going to continue our way through the book of Romans this morning. -[3026.50 --> 3030.36] And we're actually going to be wrapping up chapter 3 here today. -[3030.36 --> 3038.54] As far as fully understanding the gospel, Romans is one of the most important books in the Bible. -[3038.74 --> 3046.32] And in this letter, Paul addresses all sorts of things like salvation, faith, righteousness, and what it means to be justified. -[3047.28 --> 3056.68] Specifically in the passage that we're going to look at today, Romans 3 verses 21 to 31, he gets right at the heart of these matters. -[3056.68 --> 3064.08] Honestly, the importance of today's passage, not just for Romans, but for the whole book of the Bible, it cannot be overstated. -[3064.66 --> 3067.50] Hear what a few scholars have said about the passage we're going to read this morning. -[3067.56 --> 3068.72] This is what some scholars have said. -[3068.78 --> 3076.26] Martin Luther said that today's text is the chief point of the entire epistle, the chief point of Paul's letter, and of the whole Bible. -[3077.26 --> 3083.18] New Testament scholar C.E.B. Cranfield calls this passage the center and the heart of the whole letter. -[3083.18 --> 3087.12] Similarly, Mike Bird calls it the epicenter of Paul's gospel. -[3087.28 --> 3098.48] And not to be outdone, New Testament scholar Leanne Morris says that Romans 3 verses 21 to 26 is possibly the most important paragraph ever written. -[3099.96 --> 3100.42] Intrigued? -[3101.70 --> 3102.40] Let's read it together. -[3102.48 --> 3109.00] We're going to read Romans 3, 21 to 31, but we'll especially focus on verses 21 to 26 today. -[3109.00 --> 3111.64] So if you've got your Bibles, please open those up. -[3111.74 --> 3113.16] Open your Bible apps with you. -[3113.20 --> 3116.74] Have those open throughout the message as we're going to be referencing throughout. -[3116.90 --> 3118.74] And please follow along. -[3118.86 --> 3120.96] Romans 3, 21 to 31 says, -[3120.96 --> 3129.26] But now, apart from the law of the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the law and the prophets testify, -[3130.22 --> 3135.88] this righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. -[3136.56 --> 3143.12] There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, for all have sinned and all fall short of the glory of God, -[3143.12 --> 3150.06] and all are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. -[3150.98 --> 3158.38] God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement through the shedding of His blood to be received by faith. -[3158.74 --> 3163.30] He did this to demonstrate His righteousness because in His forbearance, that means mercy, -[3163.98 --> 3167.16] He has left the sins committed beforehand unpunished. -[3167.16 --> 3171.64] He did it to demonstrate His righteousness at the present time, -[3172.16 --> 3177.88] so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus. -[3179.38 --> 3180.84] Where, then, is boasting? -[3181.62 --> 3182.36] It is excluded. -[3183.20 --> 3184.32] Because of what law? -[3185.02 --> 3186.38] The law that requires works? -[3186.54 --> 3188.92] No, because of the law that requires faith. -[3189.26 --> 3194.64] For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the law. -[3194.64 --> 3198.24] Or is God of the Jews only? -[3198.82 --> 3200.50] Is He not the God of Gentiles too? -[3200.92 --> 3206.20] Yes, of Gentiles too, since there is only one God who will justify the circumcised by faith -[3206.20 --> 3209.96] and the uncircumcised through that same faith. -[3211.28 --> 3213.98] Do we then nullify the law by this faith? -[3214.64 --> 3215.34] Not at all. -[3216.18 --> 3217.78] Rather, we uphold the law. -[3218.48 --> 3219.20] The word of the Lord. -[3221.76 --> 3223.56] Now, this passage starts with the words, -[3223.56 --> 3224.26] But now. -[3225.54 --> 3226.50] But now. -[3226.62 --> 3231.60] These two words are pretty darn glorious in the context of our sermon series. -[3232.20 --> 3234.20] In the last four sermons throughout Romans, -[3234.64 --> 3237.66] basically the entirety of the letter until this point, -[3238.06 --> 3243.20] the universal human problem of sin has been revealed and exposed. -[3244.06 --> 3247.90] But now, with today's passage, this problem of sin is resolved. -[3247.90 --> 3252.72] But now, Jesus comes to solve the problem. -[3253.78 --> 3256.48] But now, Jesus intervenes. -[3257.48 --> 3263.88] Now, clearly that's important, but why does someone like Morris say that this is possibly the most important paragraph ever written? -[3263.88 --> 3271.20] Well, the reason that this passage is so important is that it lays out the pinnacle of the gospel story, -[3271.36 --> 3275.42] and it pours out truth that is not just for you and not just for me today, -[3275.42 --> 3278.36] but for all of humanity, for all of time. -[3278.36 --> 3284.66] What this passage is all about is this, that Jesus gives us righteousness, -[3285.18 --> 3287.76] which we receive through faith in him. -[3289.40 --> 3296.10] Jesus gives us righteousness, which we receive through faith in him. -[3297.78 --> 3298.96] That's the big idea. -[3299.14 --> 3301.68] That's the news that we're going to look at today. -[3301.68 --> 3305.10] Now, let me do something a little bit different here this morning. -[3305.20 --> 3307.84] We're going to start off with some present-day context, -[3307.84 --> 3310.86] which will help explain why this passage matters so much. -[3310.92 --> 3314.00] We usually look at the context of the passage first, -[3314.10 --> 3317.98] but today, let's use our current context to sort of set the scene. -[3318.40 --> 3321.22] Now, our culture right now is all about equality. -[3322.06 --> 3327.88] You can call it social tolerance, secular humanism, social decency, human decency, -[3327.88 --> 3328.92] whatever you want. -[3328.92 --> 3331.94] But our culture desires inclusivity. -[3332.74 --> 3335.30] If we aren't moving forward, if we're not progressing, -[3335.94 --> 3337.32] we're moving backwards. -[3337.46 --> 3338.12] We're regressing. -[3340.04 --> 3341.80] That's what our culture is all about. -[3341.92 --> 3343.36] But there's questions to that. -[3343.42 --> 3345.08] Making progress from what? -[3345.46 --> 3346.30] Or to where? -[3346.42 --> 3347.26] Or for who? -[3347.44 --> 3348.36] Or to what end? -[3348.94 --> 3352.98] See, the idea of equality or tolerance or inclusivity, it sounds good. -[3353.26 --> 3356.28] And I believe that this is coming from good places. -[3356.28 --> 3359.68] I believe that the hearts of those pushing this are really genuine. -[3359.84 --> 3361.02] They are wanting what's best. -[3361.34 --> 3365.24] But holes start to appear when we start prodding and asking questions. -[3365.54 --> 3366.50] Equality for who? -[3366.96 --> 3367.36] Everyone? -[3367.74 --> 3369.28] How so and in what capacity? -[3369.56 --> 3372.14] Are we looking for equal outcomes or equal opportunities? -[3372.46 --> 3374.42] By what means or what measures? -[3374.70 --> 3377.74] Who's the gatekeeper of this ultimate progress? -[3378.22 --> 3379.46] When do we get there? -[3379.62 --> 3380.74] When is that accomplished? -[3380.74 --> 3387.16] See, a big problem with seeking equality without God, without God, -[3388.20 --> 3390.06] is we don't know what equality looks like. -[3391.04 --> 3395.46] Equality or inclusivity, it looks different to everyone because we are all so different. -[3395.94 --> 3399.80] And what we want or desire or believe is true equality is different for everyone. -[3400.32 --> 3402.66] Barriers pop up in this conversation everywhere. -[3403.08 --> 3404.96] Barriers that we know very well. -[3404.96 --> 3409.52] Because we live in a broken world. -[3410.62 --> 3417.64] Barriers of ethnicity, barriers of socioeconomic status, barriers of ideologies, to name the big three. -[3420.74 --> 3425.16] What equality looks like for people is different depending on the color of their skin -[3425.16 --> 3428.18] and equally important, the land or the country with which they reside. -[3428.18 --> 3435.24] Equality or inclusion for one ethnic minority here in Canada looks different than equality or inclusion -[3435.24 --> 3441.14] for another ethnic minority in Saudi Arabia or China or Nigeria or Colombia or pick a country. -[3442.18 --> 3443.72] And it gets broader than that too. -[3444.20 --> 3448.38] What progress looks like for the upper class looks different than progress for the middle class -[3448.38 --> 3450.00] and progress for the lower class. -[3450.82 --> 3456.38] Those socioeconomic divides change even further when you zoom out and see what's happening around the world. -[3456.38 --> 3464.92] Ideologies on progress change too depending on what your solutions or ideas are for progress or equality or inclusion. -[3465.38 --> 3467.14] You're labeled a liberal or a conservative. -[3467.66 --> 3469.36] You're labeled progressive or traditional. -[3469.76 --> 3471.48] You're open-minded or you're conventional. -[3471.88 --> 3473.46] We're very polarized right now. -[3474.32 --> 3476.80] No matter what, you're butting heads with someone else. -[3477.04 --> 3481.74] Even if you're reaching for the same means of inclusion, the same means of equality. -[3481.74 --> 3489.00] And if you're butting heads with someone, the other is being unjust or exclusive or intolerant. -[3489.38 --> 3495.56] It's hard to move forward when you're constantly leaving the majority of the people behind in the rearview mirror. -[3496.58 --> 3501.98] So whatever our solutions are for ethnic, social, or ideological change, whatever those may be, -[3502.20 --> 3505.48] we have different views, we have different opinions, we have different perspectives, -[3505.48 --> 3507.50] even if our goals look similar. -[3508.88 --> 3512.86] Equality, tolerance, inclusivity, all seemingly good things, -[3513.54 --> 3518.80] but they're all out of reach because people are always going to be people. -[3520.24 --> 3523.62] Sinful, broken, pigeonholed, stubborn. -[3524.48 --> 3527.42] But now, see what I did there? -[3527.42 --> 3536.60] But now, the gospel truth in Jesus Christ and explained by Paul in today's text shows us why that is. -[3536.94 --> 3542.54] But more importantly today, it shows us a different way forward, a better way forward, -[3543.12 --> 3547.92] a way that actually unites and invites positive change. -[3549.02 --> 3557.16] The gospel truth of this text, the gospel truth of God's righteousness given to us transcends everything. -[3557.42 --> 3559.96] It transcends race. -[3560.60 --> 3562.32] It transcends status. -[3562.80 --> 3564.36] It transcends ideologies. -[3565.60 --> 3571.38] This righteousness given to us by God acknowledges that we are all the same. -[3572.78 --> 3574.18] We are all sinners. -[3576.94 --> 3578.28] We are all sinners. -[3579.08 --> 3580.60] We are all in need of saving. -[3581.60 --> 3585.06] And no one can attain a salvation by themselves by doing anything. -[3585.06 --> 3588.34] We all need salvation. -[3588.52 --> 3590.28] We all need righteousness from God. -[3590.34 --> 3592.56] And that is beyond anything this world offers. -[3593.00 --> 3596.60] We all need an alien righteousness, as reformers would call it. -[3596.90 --> 3601.80] A righteousness for all people that comes from beyond this world. -[3602.24 --> 3607.02] A righteousness we can only receive from God and Savior, Jesus Christ. -[3607.02 --> 3611.28] And this righteousness is for all people. -[3612.28 --> 3623.08] For Jew, Gentile, male, female, slave, free, or to modernize this up a bit, conservative, liberal, employer, employee, every race and culture under the sun. -[3623.08 --> 3625.46] This righteousness is for you. -[3625.46 --> 3628.02] And you receive it by faith in Jesus. -[3628.14 --> 3629.80] For we are all the same in sin. -[3630.02 --> 3632.34] And we are all the same in glory. -[3632.52 --> 3637.56] And that's why this passage, which we are just about to look at a little bit more intensely, matters so much. -[3638.02 --> 3644.60] Because the inclusivity that everyone desires so much in our culture is found in one place. -[3644.60 --> 3648.38] The exclusivity of Christ's gospel. -[3649.16 --> 3651.18] The exclusivity of Christ's righteousness. -[3651.54 --> 3656.98] See, the exclusivity of Christ is the most inclusive doctrine humanity has. -[3658.12 --> 3668.50] True unity, true equality can be found in him because Jesus gives us righteousness, which we receive through faith in him. -[3670.24 --> 3672.32] Now, I got ahead of myself a little bit there. -[3672.52 --> 3673.68] We're going to circle back to that. -[3674.60 --> 3679.32] But for now, let's really dig into this text for a moment and really wrap our heads around all of this. -[3679.38 --> 3681.20] There's a couple of questions that remain. -[3681.94 --> 3685.42] First, what is this righteousness that matters so much? -[3686.80 --> 3692.36] So righteousness, also called justification, is the idea of being made right in God's eyes. -[3692.84 --> 3694.96] Receiving a clean slate from him. -[3695.08 --> 3699.22] Knowing that we are spared his judgment for our sins. -[3699.22 --> 3709.84] Justification is an instantaneous legal act of God in which he, one, sees our sins, past, present, and future, as forgiven. -[3710.60 --> 3716.36] And two, declares us to be spotless in his sight because of Jesus Christ. -[3716.36 --> 3726.44] So justified people have a new status, a new identity, a new family, and a new hope, ready to enjoy the new creation. -[3727.74 --> 3731.88] It's rooted in God's undeserved favor given to us, to sinners. -[3732.02 --> 3732.80] It's all grace. -[3733.00 --> 3734.82] And it all comes from God. -[3734.82 --> 3740.38] This is because salvation is granted apart from the law, verse 21 of our text. -[3740.70 --> 3743.58] Because we could not achieve salvation by right living. -[3747.02 --> 3748.12] So question number two. -[3748.36 --> 3753.84] If we are so sinful, if humanity is so sinful, then how are we justified? -[3753.84 --> 3760.82] Or better yet, how can our just God justify justifying us? -[3761.14 --> 3762.28] That's a good question, isn't it? -[3762.68 --> 3767.98] How can our just God justify justifying us? -[3768.86 --> 3772.92] If God is just, and we are all sinners, how can we be saved? -[3773.66 --> 3775.28] Verse 25 gives us that answer. -[3775.44 --> 3782.42] God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement through the shedding of his blood to be received by faith. -[3782.42 --> 3784.98] He did this to demonstrate his righteousness. -[3786.62 --> 3791.06] So Christ, in his perfection or his righteousness, he shed his blood and he died. -[3791.50 --> 3792.72] He was our sacrifice. -[3792.94 --> 3793.98] He was our atonement. -[3794.26 --> 3799.60] Jesus' death made people who believe at one with him. -[3799.94 --> 3800.44] Atonement. -[3801.84 --> 3803.64] That's what justification is. -[3803.68 --> 3806.62] Or more theologically, propitiation is the word. -[3806.62 --> 3810.08] That just means that God not only died to forgive our sins, -[3810.08 --> 3814.30] but he died to bear God's wrath for us. -[3815.62 --> 3822.70] God provided justice for the sins everyone committed by punishing his son in our place. -[3822.76 --> 3826.00] Or put differently, the judge took the judgment. -[3828.10 --> 3830.80] Now notice, God doesn't disrespect the law here. -[3830.86 --> 3832.60] He doesn't do away with the law here. -[3832.60 --> 3837.02] By Jesus taking on the punishments of all our sins, by bearing the wrath of God, -[3837.10 --> 3838.88] it doesn't render the law useless. -[3839.58 --> 3841.66] But it actually displays its importance. -[3841.92 --> 3846.58] It's not that the Old Testament called people to live by obedience to the law, -[3846.62 --> 3849.18] and then in the New Testament, God's like, eh, changed my mind. -[3849.24 --> 3849.62] You know what? -[3849.66 --> 3850.82] Let's just do faith now. -[3851.52 --> 3851.78] No, no. -[3851.82 --> 3857.68] The truth is, Christ followed the law perfectly to merit our salvation. -[3857.68 --> 3862.40] It's not because we've obeyed it that we're saved, because Jesus did. -[3863.32 --> 3870.12] He followed the law in his life, and then he bore God's wrath for our wrongdoing in his death. -[3870.70 --> 3872.60] Jesus fulfilled the law. -[3873.02 --> 3873.94] He didn't ignore it. -[3875.32 --> 3878.18] And now, we're atoned for. -[3879.04 --> 3881.84] We are made at one with God. -[3882.46 --> 3883.46] We are righteous. -[3883.46 --> 3888.60] We aren't simply forgiven from our sin, though that would be blessing enough. -[3888.72 --> 3888.88] No? -[3889.76 --> 3890.14] No. -[3890.64 --> 3897.42] We are not only forgiven our sin, but we are made righteous in God's eyes. -[3898.12 --> 3898.96] We are atoned for. -[3899.04 --> 3899.80] We are justified. -[3900.06 --> 3906.44] Christ's perfect life of obedience to the law allowed him to be the perfect atonement for our sins. -[3906.54 --> 3910.44] And so, when he sacrificed his life, our sins have been forgiven. -[3910.44 --> 3915.16] Not only that, but we've been made righteous, perfect, flawless in God's eyes. -[3915.60 --> 3920.00] Verse 24, all are justified freely by his grace. -[3921.12 --> 3922.96] Church, this is amazing news. -[3923.34 --> 3926.64] Some of you might be hearing this for the first time, and I hope the weight of that sets in. -[3926.92 --> 3935.46] Some of you have been hearing this for the thousandth time, and the danger is you're kind of almost immune to how miraculous and amazing that this is. -[3935.46 --> 3947.30] But if we reject this news, if we reject the atonement, or at least if we're numb to the atonement, we are missing the greatest news in the world. -[3950.78 --> 3953.56] Now, some might ask, why did all of this have to happen? -[3953.68 --> 3955.94] Why did Jesus actually have to die for us? -[3955.94 --> 3960.00] And the answer is actually somewhat simple, to be honest with you. -[3960.12 --> 3963.40] Sin, the answer is sin needed punishing. -[3964.72 --> 3967.20] God's wrath against sin had to happen. -[3968.54 --> 3972.04] And if Jesus didn't bear that, then we would have had to. -[3972.86 --> 3974.76] We would have had to bear that wrath. -[3974.88 --> 3976.34] We would have had to bear that punishment. -[3976.88 --> 3980.90] See, God couldn't simply save us from becoming indifferent to sin. -[3980.90 --> 3985.36] God couldn't just simply become indifferent to sin to provide salvation for us. -[3986.02 --> 3991.98] Because this would show no love to the victims who suffer the wrath of sin or abuse in this world. -[3992.12 --> 3996.10] It would provide no justice for people crying out for it now. -[3996.44 --> 4000.42] If God were indifferent to sin, there would be no assurance for the future either. -[4000.68 --> 4007.06] Because what's assuring about a future where God reigns, but he's indifferent to sin, so sin reigns as well? -[4007.82 --> 4008.72] That's not just. -[4008.80 --> 4009.86] The bad guys just win. -[4010.90 --> 4018.50] Also, God couldn't be indifferent towards sin because that would go against his very pure, perfect, and holy character. -[4019.10 --> 4020.14] Our God is just. -[4021.20 --> 4023.08] Therefore, sin needs to be punished. -[4024.58 --> 4031.62] No, God didn't just set sin aside or become indifferent to sin or set justice to the side. -[4031.72 --> 4032.96] What he did was more amazing. -[4033.90 --> 4035.64] He turned justice on himself. -[4037.28 --> 4039.80] Again, Christ didn't just suffer. -[4039.80 --> 4044.16] He bore God's wrath in our place. -[4045.30 --> 4047.04] And he chose to do this all along. -[4047.12 --> 4049.94] This wasn't plan B to some failed plan A. -[4050.22 --> 4058.18] Our living God, our living triune God, Father, Son, and Spirit planned this all along because God loves us. -[4058.18 --> 4061.68] So what's beautiful is the cross. -[4061.68 --> 4067.38] The cross doesn't compromise God's love or God's wrath. -[4067.38 --> 4075.18] Both are expressed perfectly in what Christ did for us, which is what verse 26 of our text is saying. -[4075.18 --> 4078.58] Tim Keller puts it this way. -[4078.58 --> 4079.38] Tim Keller says, -[4079.38 --> 4084.08] The cross satisfies the love of God and the justice of God. -[4084.46 --> 4093.80] At the very same moment, it shows us that God is both the judge who cares enough about his world to set standards and hold us accountable to them, -[4093.80 --> 4101.62] and the justifier who has done everything necessary to forgive and restore us. -[4103.08 --> 4109.26] We are all made righteous in God's eyes because of Christ through faith alone. -[4109.26 --> 4112.52] So then, question number three. -[4113.66 --> 4114.86] What do we make of faith? -[4116.48 --> 4120.84] Now, our text shows us a couple ways that faith plays itself out in our lives. -[4121.64 --> 4125.70] First, the object of that faith is crucial. -[4127.00 --> 4129.14] Verse 22 of our text says this quite clearly. -[4129.28 --> 4131.68] This righteousness is given through faith. -[4132.06 --> 4132.52] Faith where? -[4133.90 --> 4135.52] Faith in Jesus Christ. -[4135.52 --> 4138.50] The object of faith matters. -[4138.50 --> 4143.20] It's not simply having faith that saves or even having faith in God that saves. -[4144.06 --> 4148.46] It is faith in Jesus Christ's life, death, and resurrection that matters. -[4148.98 --> 4151.52] It is this exclusive belief that matters. -[4151.96 --> 4153.84] The object of faith is crucial here. -[4154.18 --> 4155.76] Tim Keller also, he uses this example. -[4155.84 --> 4156.44] I think this is awesome. -[4156.54 --> 4156.84] He says, -[4157.26 --> 4159.10] If I needed to cross the Pacific Ocean, -[4160.10 --> 4161.28] if I needed to do this tomorrow, -[4161.28 --> 4167.90] I could have all the faith in the world that duct-taping feathers to my arms will get me there. -[4169.64 --> 4172.38] I could have faith the size of mountains, -[4172.50 --> 4180.16] and I could believe wholeheartedly that flapping my arms with feathers taped to them would get me to Hawaii. -[4180.16 --> 4187.38] But that faith, no matter how much I have, won't get me airborne because the object of that faith, -[4188.14 --> 4190.12] the feathers on my arms will keep me grounded. -[4191.46 --> 4192.38] That being said, -[4193.52 --> 4196.54] even if I only had a small amount of faith, -[4196.82 --> 4200.58] a tiny amount of faith in a Boeing 737, -[4201.44 --> 4205.10] getting me across the Pacific Ocean, it would work. -[4205.34 --> 4206.26] I could be worried. -[4206.44 --> 4207.42] I could be fretting. -[4207.60 --> 4209.60] I could be nervous that it wouldn't get off the ground. -[4209.60 --> 4212.22] I could have such little faith that I would be terrified. -[4212.40 --> 4216.56] But if I had a mustard seeds amount of faith that I got on that plane, -[4217.32 --> 4218.06] it would get me there. -[4219.76 --> 4223.02] It's not the faith that saves. -[4223.10 --> 4224.90] It's not the faith that accomplishes. -[4225.16 --> 4227.28] It's not the amount of faith that I had. -[4227.82 --> 4231.76] It's what my faith was in that got me across the ocean. -[4232.10 --> 4234.96] It's what our faith is in that saves us. -[4235.10 --> 4237.44] Faith is the instrument where truth is revealed. -[4237.44 --> 4239.72] The same is true with our salvation. -[4240.60 --> 4243.18] It's not having faith that saves you. -[4243.44 --> 4244.98] We have to get this right. -[4245.42 --> 4247.06] It's not faith that saves you. -[4247.12 --> 4251.18] If you think that you will be saved if you only believe in God hard enough, -[4251.18 --> 4254.58] or if you only have more faith than you currently possess, -[4255.14 --> 4256.54] then you're missing the point. -[4258.54 --> 4263.28] If you're putting your faith in your ability to believe, -[4264.32 --> 4269.12] or thinking that your salvation is dependent on your ability to have faith, -[4270.18 --> 4271.60] guess what your faith is in? -[4271.60 --> 4272.60] You. -[4272.60 --> 4273.60] You. -[4274.42 --> 4275.66] In your abilities. -[4275.86 --> 4277.60] In your capabilities. -[4277.84 --> 4278.54] In your capacities. -[4278.70 --> 4280.08] This is crucial. -[4280.74 --> 4284.08] Because if you come to think that your belief is the source of your forgiveness, -[4284.54 --> 4286.06] or your salvation, -[4286.76 --> 4288.68] you will stop looking at Christ, -[4289.82 --> 4291.48] and you'll start looking within. -[4291.48 --> 4296.88] When you see doubts, then, it'll start rattling you. -[4296.98 --> 4300.80] When you don't feel faith quite as clearly, or maybe as excitedly, -[4300.96 --> 4303.26] it will start to worry you and concern you. -[4304.48 --> 4306.84] See, it's the object of our faith. -[4307.20 --> 4308.04] It's Jesus. -[4308.56 --> 4309.80] He's who saves you. -[4311.70 --> 4314.82] Even faith as small as a mustard seed in the right object, -[4314.96 --> 4317.36] in the gospel truth of Jesus Christ, -[4317.58 --> 4319.42] will grant you salvation and righteousness. -[4319.42 --> 4321.84] You don't need more faith. -[4322.14 --> 4323.80] You just need Jesus. -[4324.38 --> 4325.42] You need faith in Him. -[4326.48 --> 4327.02] That's it. -[4327.32 --> 4327.82] Salvation. -[4328.34 --> 4332.94] Righteousness is given to us by Christ through faith. -[4334.46 --> 4336.18] It's Christ who saves you. -[4336.90 --> 4337.72] Not your abilities. -[4337.86 --> 4338.46] Only Christ. -[4339.02 --> 4340.34] And that leads us to the second point. -[4341.00 --> 4343.52] The gift of faith in our life is just that. -[4344.56 --> 4345.50] It's a gift. -[4346.52 --> 4349.08] We've done nothing to contribute to our salvation. -[4349.08 --> 4351.66] Except for our sin that we need saving from. -[4352.76 --> 4353.96] It's only Jesus. -[4355.00 --> 4356.66] And we touched on this at the beginning. -[4357.62 --> 4359.92] And we're circling back to it now at the end here. -[4360.08 --> 4363.10] But Jesus intervened to save us. -[4363.82 --> 4367.64] We don't have to do anything to achieve this righteousness. -[4368.42 --> 4370.60] It's to believe that Jesus gave it to us. -[4370.60 --> 4376.72] Now this, this runs counter to everything. -[4378.40 --> 4378.76] Everything. -[4378.98 --> 4379.56] Think about it. -[4380.18 --> 4382.66] When you want to play for the high school volleyball team, -[4383.18 --> 4386.56] you go to a tryout, you show them what you're capable of doing, -[4386.62 --> 4388.20] and you say to them, look what I can do. -[4389.00 --> 4389.68] Accept me. -[4389.68 --> 4394.30] When you apply to go to university, you submit your transcripts, -[4394.50 --> 4395.56] you show them your grades, -[4395.64 --> 4398.74] you tell them about all the extracurriculars that you have done in your life, -[4398.76 --> 4400.10] and you say, look what I've done. -[4400.80 --> 4401.46] Accept me. -[4403.12 --> 4405.26] When you want a job, you show them your resume. -[4405.58 --> 4408.76] You tell them of all the previous things that you've accomplished in your life, -[4408.80 --> 4410.94] and you say to this, look at this, I'm qualified. -[4411.32 --> 4412.00] Accept me. -[4412.00 --> 4416.12] When you apply for a mortgage, you go to the bank, -[4416.44 --> 4419.56] you show them your credit score, and give them your financial records, -[4419.62 --> 4420.80] you say, look what I've managed. -[4421.18 --> 4421.96] Accept me. -[4423.98 --> 4426.94] This is true of every other religion as well. -[4427.88 --> 4431.52] Obtaining different versions of salvation in every other religion -[4431.52 --> 4434.24] all involves you showing what you've done. -[4435.88 --> 4438.20] In Islam, you must follow the five pillars, -[4438.32 --> 4441.20] including just living, pilgrimages, routine prayer, and fasting. -[4441.20 --> 4443.82] That's how you obtain salvation in Islam. -[4444.08 --> 4447.30] In Hinduism, you get reincarnated after death, -[4447.54 --> 4450.60] and what you were reborn as depends on the enlightenment you attain -[4450.60 --> 4451.96] here on this earth, in this world, -[4452.00 --> 4454.16] which is obtained by doing worship, -[4454.52 --> 4458.30] by gaining knowledge, and doing various acts and works. -[4458.42 --> 4461.94] In Buddhism, you attain nirvana, or complete peace, -[4462.26 --> 4465.72] by right speech, right conduct, right livelihood, -[4466.06 --> 4469.12] and right effort, among other works and deeds. -[4469.12 --> 4472.98] In Judaism, people are saved by studying the Torah -[4472.98 --> 4475.40] and living their lives by its teaching -[4475.40 --> 4477.70] and doing the works that it calls them to do. -[4477.96 --> 4484.28] Even in this current post-Christian, atheist, pagan, pluralistic, -[4484.70 --> 4487.74] secular humanist, dressed however you want to call it, -[4487.78 --> 4489.12] culture that we live in today, -[4489.80 --> 4494.74] the goal is to work and live for the social good for one another. -[4494.74 --> 4497.74] That ultimate good comes from doing good things, -[4497.86 --> 4499.66] from doing no harm to others. -[4500.40 --> 4503.30] That means that every other religion and culture, -[4503.62 --> 4507.22] you go to your God or your deity or whatever place, -[4507.26 --> 4508.84] and you say, look what I've done. -[4509.76 --> 4511.60] Look at the good things I've done, -[4511.86 --> 4512.86] what I've accomplished. -[4513.06 --> 4514.60] Look at the peace I've obtained, -[4514.80 --> 4516.88] or the family with which I belong to, -[4517.02 --> 4519.18] or the physical or spiritual record -[4519.18 --> 4521.86] that I've done a pretty good job keeping out of the red. -[4521.86 --> 4523.46] Look at who I am. -[4523.58 --> 4524.58] Look at what I've done. -[4524.94 --> 4525.86] Look at all of this. -[4526.14 --> 4527.00] Accept me. -[4530.88 --> 4534.64] But not Christian faith. -[4536.02 --> 4538.96] Paul says, but now. -[4541.62 --> 4543.90] Jesus intervenes. -[4546.30 --> 4549.28] Righteousness is given to us. -[4549.28 --> 4551.72] Apart from what we do, -[4553.18 --> 4555.60] no other place offers this. -[4557.10 --> 4561.44] Outside of the gospel truth of Christian faith, -[4562.16 --> 4564.38] we must develop our own righteousness, -[4564.86 --> 4567.12] or say, accept me and earn it. -[4567.92 --> 4569.18] The gospel is different. -[4570.86 --> 4574.40] It says that God has developed a perfect righteousness, -[4574.70 --> 4576.20] and he offers it to you. -[4576.54 --> 4577.76] He gives it to you. -[4577.76 --> 4581.08] And by what Christ did, -[4581.36 --> 4583.18] we are accepted. -[4584.44 --> 4587.14] That is the uniqueness of the Christian gospel. -[4587.78 --> 4590.84] Church, this is so compelling. -[4591.80 --> 4593.86] I hope you see how important this is. -[4594.20 --> 4597.10] Why Jesus changes everything. -[4598.92 --> 4601.84] Why Jesus, living the perfect life -[4601.84 --> 4604.24] that we've been called yet fail to live, -[4604.24 --> 4607.38] and then Jesus died a death -[4607.38 --> 4609.04] that we all deserve to die, -[4609.84 --> 4612.66] only to raise up from the dead three days later, -[4612.76 --> 4614.54] defeating sin and death forever. -[4616.06 --> 4617.66] And Jesus ascended into heaven -[4617.66 --> 4619.54] and is seated at the right hand of God -[4619.54 --> 4621.50] right now, intervening on your behalf, -[4622.06 --> 4624.78] and he saved you apart from everything you did. -[4624.78 --> 4631.20] I pray you see how magnificently glorious that is, -[4631.76 --> 4633.94] how freeing that is, -[4634.16 --> 4636.88] how unique and amazing that is -[4636.88 --> 4639.82] to every other belief system out there. -[4639.82 --> 4644.80] Being a good person is not the goal of our faith. -[4644.92 --> 4647.26] Doing good things is not the goal of the gospel. -[4647.42 --> 4649.60] Salvation is not about us trying harder -[4649.60 --> 4650.70] or doing more. -[4650.94 --> 4653.74] It is about receiving God's grace -[4653.74 --> 4655.78] and being transformed by it. -[4657.76 --> 4659.04] Sometimes we forget this. -[4659.52 --> 4660.82] Mike Bird, he highlights this. -[4660.86 --> 4661.40] He says this. -[4661.46 --> 4661.78] He says, -[4661.78 --> 4665.30] In my short time as a follower of Jesus, -[4665.54 --> 4667.72] I've had people tell me that in order to be saved, -[4667.98 --> 4669.04] I need to speak in tongues, -[4669.52 --> 4670.92] partake in some sacrament, -[4671.42 --> 4673.08] only read the King James Bible, -[4673.74 --> 4675.36] subscribe to a certain concession, -[4675.78 --> 4677.92] believe in this diagram of the end times, -[4678.22 --> 4679.76] jump through a dozen other hoops -[4679.76 --> 4681.94] that seem to serve the purpose of validating -[4681.94 --> 4683.64] the rantings of some lunatic -[4683.64 --> 4685.58] with an opinion and a desperate desire -[4685.58 --> 4686.52] to force it on others. -[4688.00 --> 4689.04] Fortunately for me, -[4689.04 --> 4692.50] I was well-discipled by Christian leaders -[4692.50 --> 4693.54] and attended churches -[4693.54 --> 4694.82] where the pastors were committed -[4694.82 --> 4695.80] to biblical teaching, -[4695.80 --> 4697.90] so I never got suckered in -[4697.90 --> 4701.78] to the Jesus plus stairway to salvation. -[4702.70 --> 4704.62] But sadly, many do. -[4707.22 --> 4710.70] It's not Jesus plus that saves. -[4711.54 --> 4712.58] Only Jesus. -[4714.14 --> 4715.30] Verse 24 today, -[4715.30 --> 4719.56] all are justified freely by His grace -[4719.56 --> 4723.48] through the redemption that came by Jesus Christ. -[4724.98 --> 4725.90] Hear that? -[4726.02 --> 4727.00] All are justified. -[4727.80 --> 4729.32] That is why this is possibly -[4729.32 --> 4732.02] the most important paragraph ever written. -[4733.20 --> 4734.52] This grace, this salvation, -[4734.70 --> 4736.38] this righteousness is for everyone. -[4737.02 --> 4738.98] The cross destroys discrimination. -[4739.38 --> 4741.94] This righteousness is available to everyone, -[4742.04 --> 4742.86] no matter their race, -[4743.10 --> 4744.00] no matter their class, -[4744.00 --> 4745.52] no matter their political leaning. -[4746.18 --> 4747.84] This righteousness is yours -[4747.84 --> 4748.84] if you have faith -[4748.84 --> 4751.08] in who Jesus is -[4751.08 --> 4752.14] and what Jesus did. -[4752.74 --> 4754.00] No matter who you are, -[4754.52 --> 4755.56] no matter what you've done. -[4755.70 --> 4756.60] Are you a tax collector? -[4756.74 --> 4757.60] I've got good news. -[4758.44 --> 4759.34] Are you a prostitute? -[4759.46 --> 4760.36] I've got good news. -[4761.30 --> 4762.24] Addicted to drugs, -[4762.54 --> 4763.08] or porn, -[4763.20 --> 4763.74] or alcohol, -[4763.94 --> 4764.44] or power? -[4764.64 --> 4765.60] I've got good news. -[4766.56 --> 4767.96] You ruled by greed? -[4768.38 --> 4769.42] I've got good news. -[4770.34 --> 4772.24] Married and divorced several times over? -[4772.24 --> 4773.12] I've got good news. -[4773.12 --> 4776.90] Constantly gossiping about your fellow colleagues? -[4777.00 --> 4777.68] I've got good news. -[4778.92 --> 4779.98] Envious of your neighbor? -[4780.68 --> 4781.72] I've got good news. -[4782.76 --> 4784.48] Sleeping with your boyfriend or girlfriend -[4784.48 --> 4785.14] before marriage? -[4785.22 --> 4786.00] I've got good news. -[4786.76 --> 4788.30] Lying to cover your own pride? -[4788.38 --> 4789.18] I've got good news. -[4789.46 --> 4791.28] Hoarding your wealth for your own comfort? -[4791.40 --> 4792.24] I've got good news. -[4793.50 --> 4795.88] You can add anything to the list, -[4795.88 --> 4798.52] but if any of that resonates with you, -[4798.58 --> 4800.40] I've got good news. -[4800.84 --> 4802.58] Jesus gives you righteousness, -[4802.58 --> 4805.06] which you receive through faith in him. -[4805.70 --> 4807.66] This righteousness for you, -[4807.88 --> 4809.26] you have a clean slate -[4809.26 --> 4812.04] if you have faith in Jesus' life, -[4812.12 --> 4812.86] death, and resurrection. -[4813.36 --> 4814.74] If you repent from what you did, -[4815.24 --> 4816.66] you are never too far -[4816.66 --> 4818.58] out of reach for the grace -[4818.58 --> 4819.96] and the love of Jesus. -[4819.96 --> 4821.28] Brothers and sisters, -[4821.48 --> 4823.02] Jesus has good news for you. -[4823.06 --> 4823.22] Amen? -[4824.74 --> 4825.14] But, -[4826.24 --> 4827.88] but, -[4828.24 --> 4831.74] if any of that resonates with you, -[4832.74 --> 4834.60] I've also got bad news. -[4835.74 --> 4837.10] If you have faith -[4837.10 --> 4839.26] and you receive this righteousness -[4839.26 --> 4840.48] from Jesus Christ, -[4841.64 --> 4843.38] everything's got to change. -[4843.38 --> 4847.16] everything's got to change. -[4848.20 --> 4850.56] This Christ-given righteousness -[4850.56 --> 4852.88] changes everything. -[4854.54 --> 4855.76] It changes you. -[4855.86 --> 4856.72] It has to. -[4857.84 --> 4860.78] Jesus bore the wrath of God -[4860.78 --> 4862.30] so that you don't have to. -[4862.82 --> 4865.10] He took on the punishment for your sin. -[4866.34 --> 4867.56] You cannot accept that -[4867.56 --> 4869.52] and then just think you can keep on sinning, right? -[4870.98 --> 4873.36] Verse 31 of our text asks this question, -[4873.38 --> 4875.66] do we then nullify the law? -[4876.74 --> 4878.40] No, we don't nullify the law. -[4878.52 --> 4880.10] We uphold the law. -[4881.40 --> 4883.32] Again, this is the most important paragraph -[4883.32 --> 4884.00] ever written. -[4884.62 --> 4886.52] Everything boils down to righteousness -[4886.52 --> 4888.32] given to us by Christ. -[4889.44 --> 4890.70] If you accept this truth -[4890.70 --> 4892.06] and know that Christ's life, -[4892.18 --> 4892.92] death, and resurrection -[4892.92 --> 4894.16] save you from your sin, -[4894.40 --> 4895.52] you are forever free. -[4895.76 --> 4896.44] You're liberated. -[4896.60 --> 4898.12] The weight of sin and death -[4898.12 --> 4899.08] is gone forever. -[4899.18 --> 4900.16] That changes you. -[4900.46 --> 4901.32] You are free. -[4901.32 --> 4904.54] But it changes you. -[4904.54 --> 4907.92] The truth changes -[4907.92 --> 4909.16] how you live in this world. -[4909.38 --> 4911.16] No more boasting in anything. -[4912.62 --> 4914.70] But not I through Christ in me, right? -[4915.60 --> 4916.56] Not your doing. -[4916.66 --> 4917.38] It's God's doing. -[4918.50 --> 4919.76] It changes how we talk. -[4920.08 --> 4920.84] We're taking credit. -[4922.12 --> 4922.98] We give God the glory -[4922.98 --> 4923.86] whenever we can -[4923.86 --> 4925.78] and we live humbly in this world. -[4925.78 --> 4927.78] It changes how we live. -[4927.78 --> 4928.24] It changes how we live -[4928.24 --> 4929.92] to honor Him. -[4930.32 --> 4930.78] And we're disobedient. -[4931.60 --> 4932.58] We submit to Him. -[4932.80 --> 4933.80] We obey Him. -[4934.96 --> 4938.06] This is all verses 27 to 31 of our text. -[4939.10 --> 4940.58] No matter who we are, -[4940.98 --> 4942.28] no matter what we've done, -[4942.44 --> 4944.64] we are unified as a body, -[4945.54 --> 4946.82] handed righteousness -[4946.82 --> 4948.58] for no reason of our own. -[4948.64 --> 4950.32] He bore the wrath for you and me. -[4951.78 --> 4953.12] If you've accepted this gift, -[4953.26 --> 4953.90] praise God. -[4953.90 --> 4956.36] If not, and you want to, -[4956.42 --> 4957.68] you can come speak to me afterwards. -[4957.80 --> 4958.70] You can speak to anybody -[4958.70 --> 4959.56] wearing a name tag. -[4959.64 --> 4960.68] You can call Pastor Chris. -[4960.74 --> 4961.78] You can call up your elder. -[4964.18 --> 4965.74] This gift is yours for the taking. -[4966.44 --> 4967.80] Jesus wants to give you -[4967.80 --> 4968.56] a clean slate. -[4968.64 --> 4969.70] He's offering it to you -[4969.70 --> 4970.52] for free. -[4972.10 --> 4973.34] But it changes everything. -[4974.38 --> 4975.18] And all you need to do -[4975.18 --> 4976.16] is put your faith in Him. -[4977.58 --> 4977.90] Amen. -[4977.90 --> 4978.04] Amen. -[4978.64 --> 4979.22] Let me pray. -[4983.90 --> 4986.36] Father in heaven, -[4987.36 --> 4989.68] you changed everything. -[4992.14 --> 4994.06] God, in a world where we are called -[4994.06 --> 4994.84] to do good -[4994.84 --> 4996.94] for everyone else, -[4997.18 --> 4998.18] where every other religion -[4998.18 --> 4999.86] calls us to certain tasks -[4999.86 --> 5000.82] and certain deeds -[5000.82 --> 5002.26] and to accomplish certain things, -[5002.46 --> 5003.66] in a world that asks us -[5003.66 --> 5004.70] to give and do -[5004.70 --> 5006.18] and be a part of everything, -[5006.50 --> 5007.56] you change everything -[5007.56 --> 5010.98] by saving us -[5010.98 --> 5013.70] because of nothing we did. -[5016.60 --> 5018.16] Lord, may we put our faith -[5018.16 --> 5020.36] in what it is you have done -[5020.36 --> 5021.28] and Jesus, -[5021.44 --> 5022.32] who it is you are. -[5023.44 --> 5024.62] May this change us -[5024.62 --> 5025.54] to the core. -[5026.96 --> 5028.86] May this gift of righteousness, -[5029.22 --> 5030.56] this gift of salvation -[5030.56 --> 5033.00] be more real to us today -[5033.00 --> 5034.00] than it was yesterday. -[5034.68 --> 5035.50] And may it change -[5035.50 --> 5037.10] what tomorrow looks like for us -[5037.10 --> 5038.14] and next week -[5038.14 --> 5039.76] and every day of our lives -[5039.76 --> 5040.30] going forward. -[5040.38 --> 5041.90] May we not boast in anything, -[5042.32 --> 5044.08] but may we live humbly for you. -[5044.80 --> 5045.84] May the words that come -[5045.84 --> 5048.08] out of our mouth glorify you. -[5049.46 --> 5051.36] And may we live in obedience -[5051.36 --> 5052.58] so that we can honor you, -[5053.36 --> 5053.92] the God, -[5054.66 --> 5055.38] the judge -[5055.38 --> 5057.72] who bore our judgment. -[5060.56 --> 5061.52] God, we thank you. -[5062.26 --> 5063.28] We praise you. -[5064.20 --> 5065.28] We sing to you. -[5065.56 --> 5066.54] In your name, amen. -[5066.54 --> 5066.68] Amen. -[5066.68 --> 5076.56] Please stand with us. -[5076.56 --> 5077.00] Amen. -[5083.00 --> 5088.26] By faith we see the hand of God -[5088.26 --> 5094.24] In the light of creation's grand design -[5094.24 --> 5099.00] In the lives of those -[5099.00 --> 5103.48] who prove his faithfulness -[5103.48 --> 5105.72] Who walks by faith -[5105.72 --> 5109.48] and not by sight -[5109.48 --> 5116.08] By faith our fathers -[5116.08 --> 5118.62] roam the earth -[5118.62 --> 5122.44] With the power of his promise -[5122.44 --> 5126.04] In their hearts -[5126.04 --> 5129.10] Of a holy city -[5129.10 --> 5133.00] Built by God's own hands -[5133.00 --> 5135.54] A place where peace -[5135.54 --> 5137.68] And justice spring -[5137.68 --> 5142.36] We will stand as children -[5142.36 --> 5144.62] Of the promise -[5144.62 --> 5149.02] We will fix our eyes -[5149.02 --> 5149.86] On him -[5149.86 --> 5152.34] Our soul's reward -[5152.34 --> 5156.08] Till the race is finished -[5156.08 --> 5160.30] And the world is done -[5160.30 --> 5162.48] We'll walk by faith -[5162.48 --> 5165.46] And not by sight -[5165.46 --> 5172.92] By faith the prophets -[5172.92 --> 5174.86] Saw a day -[5174.86 --> 5179.26] When the longed for Messiah -[5179.26 --> 5181.34] Would appear -[5181.34 --> 5185.78] With the power to break -[5185.78 --> 5189.42] The chains of sin and death -[5189.42 --> 5192.66] And rise triumphant -[5192.66 --> 5195.24] From the rain -[5195.24 --> 5202.14] By faith the church -[5202.14 --> 5204.22] Was called to go -[5204.22 --> 5208.80] In the power of the spirit -[5208.80 --> 5212.18] To the lost -[5212.18 --> 5214.06] To deliver -[5214.06 --> 5214.10] To deliver -[5214.10 --> 5215.56] Captives -[5215.56 --> 5217.16] And to preach -[5217.16 --> 5218.84] Good news -[5218.84 --> 5221.76] In every corner -[5221.76 --> 5223.90] Of the earth -[5223.90 --> 5226.98] We will stand -[5226.98 --> 5228.28] As children -[5228.28 --> 5230.40] Of the promise -[5230.40 --> 5233.58] We will fix -[5233.58 --> 5234.82] Our eyes -[5234.82 --> 5235.58] On him -[5235.58 --> 5238.08] Our soul's reward -[5238.08 --> 5240.18] Till the race -[5240.18 --> 5241.72] Is finished -[5241.72 --> 5243.14] And the work -[5243.14 --> 5245.78] Is done -[5245.78 --> 5248.04] We'll walk by faith -[5248.04 --> 5252.00] And not by sight -[5252.00 --> 5258.14] By faith the mountain -[5258.14 --> 5260.84] Shall be used -[5260.84 --> 5264.76] And the power of the gospel -[5264.76 --> 5266.50] Shall prevail -[5266.50 --> 5269.46] For we know -[5269.46 --> 5269.98] For we know -[5269.98 --> 5271.16] In Christ -[5271.16 --> 5271.96] All things -[5271.96 --> 5274.10] Are possible -[5274.10 --> 5277.66] For all who call -[5277.66 --> 5280.40] Upon his name -[5280.40 --> 5282.90] We will stand -[5282.90 --> 5284.24] As children -[5284.24 --> 5286.32] Of the promise -[5286.32 --> 5289.46] We will fix -[5289.46 --> 5290.72] Our eyes -[5290.72 --> 5291.50] On him -[5291.50 --> 5293.92] Our soul's reward -[5293.92 --> 5295.46] Till the race -[5295.46 --> 5297.46] Is finished -[5297.46 --> 5298.84] And the work -[5298.84 --> 5301.40] Is done -[5301.40 --> 5303.46] Till the race -[5303.46 --> 5304.46] Is finished -[5304.46 --> 5305.46] And the work -[5305.46 --> 5306.46] Is done -[5306.46 --> 5307.46] Till the race -[5307.46 --> 5308.46] Is finished -[5308.46 --> 5309.46] Till the race -[5309.46 --> 5310.46] Is finished -[5310.46 --> 5310.52] And the work -[5310.52 --> 5312.46] Is done -[5312.46 --> 5314.46] We'll walk by faith -[5314.46 --> 5315.46] And not by sight -[5315.46 --> 5316.46] We will stand -[5316.46 --> 5317.46] As children -[5317.46 --> 5318.46] Of the promise -[5318.46 --> 5319.46] We will fix -[5319.46 --> 5320.46] Our eyes -[5320.46 --> 5322.14] Till the race -[5322.14 --> 5323.00] Is finished -[5323.00 --> 5325.04] And the work -[5325.04 --> 5327.00] Is done -[5327.00 --> 5330.00] We'll walk by faith -[5330.00 --> 5332.00] And not by sight -[5332.00 --> 5346.02] And so let us walk by faith -[5346.02 --> 5347.60] As we go into this week -[5347.60 --> 5348.02] Let us -[5348.02 --> 5349.92] Remember -[5349.92 --> 5351.10] This gift -[5351.10 --> 5351.90] Of righteousness -[5351.90 --> 5353.14] And salvation -[5353.14 --> 5354.76] The fact -[5354.76 --> 5355.30] That you have -[5355.30 --> 5356.12] A clean slate -[5356.12 --> 5357.18] In God's eyes -[5357.18 --> 5358.14] You are righteous -[5358.14 --> 5359.62] In his eyes -[5359.62 --> 5361.54] Let that change us -[5361.54 --> 5362.78] Let us share this -[5362.78 --> 5364.42] Let us go forth -[5364.42 --> 5365.32] With this blessing -[5365.32 --> 5366.24] From number six -[5366.24 --> 5367.06] Actually before I say -[5367.06 --> 5367.44] The blessing -[5367.44 --> 5368.20] Let me remind you -[5368.20 --> 5369.50] If you need prayer today -[5369.50 --> 5370.32] There are people -[5370.32 --> 5371.38] Wearing yellow name tags -[5371.38 --> 5372.44] In the back foyer there -[5372.44 --> 5373.30] I think someone -[5373.30 --> 5374.08] Might even be up front -[5374.08 --> 5374.44] Afterwards -[5374.44 --> 5376.22] Please grab one of them -[5376.22 --> 5377.16] If you need prayer -[5377.16 --> 5377.64] This morning -[5377.64 --> 5378.20] And now please -[5378.20 --> 5379.92] Hear this blessing -[5379.92 --> 5380.92] From number six -[5380.92 --> 5382.98] The Lord bless you -[5382.98 --> 5383.98] And keep you -[5383.98 --> 5385.64] The Lord make his face -[5385.64 --> 5386.68] Shine upon you -[5386.68 --> 5388.14] And be gracious to you -[5388.14 --> 5390.16] The Lord turn his face -[5390.16 --> 5390.96] Toward you -[5390.96 --> 5392.88] And give you his peace -[5392.88 --> 5394.78] And all God's people said -[5394.78 --> 5395.80] Amen -[5404.44 --> 5422.88] This my only comfort -[5422.88 --> 5424.34] In my life -[5424.34 --> 5426.18] And in my death -[5426.18 --> 5429.02] You have fully paid -[5429.02 --> 5430.62] For all my sins -[5430.62 --> 5432.68] And all my debt -[5432.68 --> 5435.56] Even when I struggle -[5435.56 --> 5437.34] To believe -[5437.34 --> 5441.72] With your precious blood -[5441.72 --> 5443.54] You set me free -[5443.54 --> 5450.00] I am not my own -[5450.00 --> 5452.34] But belong -[5452.34 --> 5456.02] Body and soul -[5456.02 --> 5459.48] In my life -[5459.48 --> 5462.40] And in care -[5462.40 --> 5465.56] To you Lord -[5465.56 --> 5468.80] Christ my Lord -[5468.80 --> 5472.44] You preserve my life -[5472.44 --> 5473.92] In such a way -[5473.92 --> 5475.62] That without you -[5475.62 --> 5479.50] Not a hair can fall from me -[5479.50 --> 5482.06] Unless you will it too -[5482.06 --> 5484.94] Even when I'm lost -[5484.94 --> 5486.72] In desperation -[5486.72 --> 5488.94] Even when I'm lost -[5488.94 --> 5489.94] Even when I'm lost -[5489.94 --> 5490.94] In desperation -[5490.94 --> 5491.94] Even when I'm lost -[5491.94 --> 5492.94] Even when I'm lost -[5492.94 --> 5493.94] In desperation -[5493.94 --> 5494.94] All things work together -[5494.94 --> 5495.94] For myself they show -[5495.94 --> 5498.94] I am not my own -[5498.94 --> 5501.82] But belong -[5501.82 --> 5504.82] Body and soul -[5504.82 --> 5507.82] In my life -[5507.82 --> 5510.82] And in death -[5510.82 --> 5513.82] To you Lord -[5514.40 --> 5517.82] Christ my Lord -[5517.82 --> 5545.84] Always by your Holy Spirit -[5545.84 --> 5547.72] You assure me -[5547.72 --> 5550.72] Of eternal life -[5551.36 --> 5553.08] And make me willing -[5553.08 --> 5554.44] And ready -[5554.44 --> 5558.08] Even when I can't see -[5558.08 --> 5559.66] My way through -[5559.66 --> 5563.24] From now on -[5563.24 --> 5565.88] To always live for you -[5565.88 --> 5573.76] I am not my own -[5573.76 --> 5575.76] But belong -[5575.76 --> 5579.90] Body and soul -[5579.90 --> 5582.88] Give my life -[5582.88 --> 5585.88] And in death -[5585.88 --> 5588.92] To you Lord -[5588.92 --> 5591.76] Christ my Lord -[5591.76 --> 5596.64] I am not my own -[5596.64 --> 5597.64] I am not my own -[5597.64 --> 5599.64] But belong -[5599.64 --> 5600.64] But belong -[5600.64 --> 5603.64] Body and soul -[5603.64 --> 5606.64] In my life -[5606.64 --> 5609.64] And in death -[5609.64 --> 5612.64] To you Lord -[5612.64 --> 5616.64] Christ my Lord -[5616.64 --> 5628.52] Christ my Lord -[5628.52 --> 5629.52] I am not my own -[5629.52 --> 5630.52] I am not my own -[5630.52 --> 5632.52] I am not my own -[5632.52 --> 5634.52] I am not my own -[5634.52 --> 5636.52] But belong -[5636.52 --> 5637.90] Life -[5637.90 --> 5640.40] Christ my Lord -[5640.40 --> 5642.40] God my Lord -[5642.40 --> 5644.28] He isfold -[5644.28 --> 5644.78] And it's afraid -[5644.78 --> 5647.24] I am not my own -[5647.24 --> 5648.12] I am not my own -[5648.12 --> 5648.38] I am not my own -[5648.38 --> 5649.32] But belong -[5649.32 --> 5650.08] To ourselves -[5650.08 --> 5650.64] I am not my own -[5650.64 --> 5651.68] Father -[5651.68 --> 5652.50] His Ace -[5652.50 --> 5653.28] Father -[5653.28 --> 5654.42] And my own -[5654.42 --> 5654.98] I am not your comment -[5654.98 --> 5655.78] Rabbit -[5655.78 --> 5659.28] Won't these 네zh -[5659.28 --> 5659.76] Hope -[5659.76 --> 5660.26] Hope -[5660.26 --> 5660.78] Thank you -[5660.78 --> 5661.54] People -[5661.62 --> 5661.88] May -[5661.88 --> 5663.36] Finally -[5663.36 --> 5664.18] Hope -[5664.18 --> 5664.72] mum -[5664.72 --> 5665.46] God -[5665.46 --> 5666.28] May -[5666.28 --> 5666.30] acht -[5666.78 --> 5667.06] comparable -[5667.06 --> 5667.76] Bubble -[5667.92 --> 5668.12] myself -[5669.32 --> 5669.90] series -[5669.90 --> 5670.22] 花 -[5670.22 --> 5670.70] towns -[5670.70 --> 5700.68] Thank you. -[5700.70 --> 5730.68] Thank you. -[5730.70 --> 5755.38] Thank you. -[5760.70 --> 5790.68] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - February 27, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - February 27, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 92e5a8f5a883cdaf8076e3036156d38c70ceeae5..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - February 27, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,101 +0,0 @@ -• Repetition of "thank you" for a significant portion of the transcript -• Invocation of God's name and praise for the Lord -• References to Christ and Jesus, including their role as savior and judge -• Statements of faith in God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit -• Mention of the Holy Trinity (one God in three persons) -• Gathering of church members and children for worship -• Prayer led by Glenn, an elder at Langley Emanuel, expressing gratitude and adoration for God -• Requests for blessing and support for various individuals and groups, including: - + Youth leaders attending a retreat - + Nicole Rook and Matt Woods preparing for their wedding - + Pearl and John Denhan and the Limas family grieving the loss of August - + Jeff Sanders dealing with his father's passing - + Those affected by war in Ukraine and displaced persons -• Requests for healing, comfort, and restoration for individuals struggling with illness, broken relationships, and strained relationships within the congregation -• Request for wisdom for the committee searching for an executive director for the Canadian Christian Reformed Church -• Introduction to continuing the study of Exodus -• Personal anecdote about a trip to Timna National Park in Egypt, where the speaker's group experienced heat stroke due to grumbling and complaining too soon -• Application of this experience to understanding the Israelites' situation in Exodus 16, where they complained about lack of food despite God's promise to provide for them -• Reading of Exodus 16:1-18, highlighting the Israelites' grumbling against Moses and Aaron, and God's response promising to provide meat and bread for them -• The Israelites wake up to find a mysterious white substance on the ground, which is later revealed by Moses to be manna -• Moses instructs the Israelites to gather as much manna as they need for each person in their tent, and they all collect the right amount -• The timing of this event is significant, occurring just one month after the Israelites left Egypt -• This story is part of a larger section that details God's provisions for the people during their wilderness wandering -• There are two main themes: God providing for his people despite their grumbling and complaining, and God using their grumbling as an opportunity to reveal himself in grace. -• The speaker reflects on a situation where they were forced to walk in hot desert weather without water, and how it gave them empathy for people who complain about freedom. -• The speaker warns against judging others based on one's own experiences and perspectives. -• They caution against assuming that the past was always better than the present. -• The speaker discusses how people often feel unfairly treated by God during hard times, such as with a cancer diagnosis or depression. -• They acknowledge that some people have experienced consistent blessings throughout their lives, but notes that these can make it harder to understand and relate to others who are struggling. -• Rising costs of living and struggles with financial stability -• The temptation to be bitter and blame God or others for difficulties -• Trusting in God's provision despite circumstances -• Recognizing the need for complete trust and obedience in difficult times -• The importance of letting go of self-sufficiency and individual autonomy -• Complaints in the Bible -• Different types of complaints against God -• Faith as a motivator for complaining -• Lack of faith leading to complaining -• Self-centered behavior in times of trouble -• The speaker discusses the difference between legitimate lamenting and self-centered complaining -• They encourage listeners to reflect on their own motivations for grumbling or complaining -• The importance of faith in one's life is emphasized, and the consequences of lacking faith are discussed -• The story of Israel's grumbling in the book of Numbers is referenced as an example of God's punishment for disobedience -• The wilderness period is determined by the death of the last person of a generation -• Punishment is coming for the people due to their grumbling, but God's response is significant -• Instead of punishing them, God provides for them with bread from heaven -• The bread, known as manna, tastes like wafers made of honey and comes in flakes or frost on the ground -• God's provision for his people despite their grumbling and complaining -• The purpose of the test or trial for the Israelites to gather only what they need each day -• The double portion available on the Sabbath day as a way to show trust in God -• Misconceptions about God testing people like a professor, expecting them to fail -• The reality that biblical tests are not trials meant to prove worthiness, but rather a demonstration of God's character and relationship with his people -• God knows everything, including secrets -• Bible tests are from God for the benefit of humans -• Tests reveal God's character and teach obedience -• The goal of testing is to produce righteousness and peace in individuals and communities -• Discipline from God may be difficult at first but leads to growth and a harvest of righteousness and peace -• The wilderness as a place of provision and punishment -• Life as a wandering through the wilderness -• Human default response to difficult situations (grumbling or complaining) -• Jesus' experience in the wilderness, including temptation and testing -• Significance of the number 40 in biblical context -• Jesus' connection to Israel and his hunger in the wilderness -• Satan tempts Jesus to bow down and worship him -• Jesus responds that man does not live on bread alone, but on every word from God -• Satan quotes scripture to test Jesus' faith -• Jesus says do not put the Lord your God to the test -• Satan is rebuked for trying to tempt Jesus with promises of power -• The gospel message is revealed: we are loved more than we can imagine despite our sinfulness -• Jesus lives the life I should have lived and dies the death I deserve -• Through faith, Jesus exhibits what we lack and dies in our place -• Israel's sin in the desert and throughout her history -• Self-centeredness as a common sin to us all -• The concept of self-centeredness as a conceit that prioritizes one's own view and judgment -• God's gracious provision as revealed through Christ -• Manna from heaven as a symbol of God's provision and fulfillment -• Faith in Jesus as the means to be united with God's presence -• Living a life of worshipful trust and rejoicing through faith in Christ -• Christ's holy spirit assures eternal life -• Belonging to Christ is a matter of salvation -• Grumbling and selfish desires hinder progress -• Training in righteousness is necessary for growth -• Removing perceived needs and desires is part of the process -• The kingdom of God is a guiding vision -• The speaker reflects on the importance of looking back at Christ and His teachings. -• The speaker discusses the idea that Christians should be content, but many people struggle with selfishness, grumbling, and complaining. -• The importance of contentment is highlighted, especially in a world where many prioritize success and achievement over God's will. -• The community is encouraged to trust in Christ and work together to cultivate contentment, rather than letting fear or a wrong understanding of freedom lead to complaining. -• Contentedness in the face of adversity and uncertainty -• Choosing to serve God amidst chaos and difficulty -• Trusting in God's goodness and provision -• Recognizing that with God, all things are possible -• Walking by faith rather than sight -• Standing firm as children of God's promise -• Fixing eyes on God for a reward and completion of the race -• Scripture references and song titles mentioned -• Promises of God's power and provision in difficult circumstances -• Encouragement to trust in God's presence and guidance -• Call to praise and worship God through music and prayer -• Requests for spiritual awakening, healing, and deliverance -• Expressions of gratitude and appreciation \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - February 27, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - February 27, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 8932c7d1b1732de7ed6aa9d3204286b2c484d4a0..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - February 27, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2085 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 599.98] Thank you. -[600.00 --> 629.98] Thank you. -[630.00 --> 659.98] Thank you. -[659.98 --> 689.96] Thank you. -[689.96 --> 719.94] Thank you. -[719.96 --> 749.94] Thank you. -[749.96 --> 779.94] Thank you. -[779.96 --> 809.94] Thank you. -[809.94 --> 839.92] Thank you. -[839.92 --> 869.90] Thank you. -[869.92 --> 899.90] Thank you. -[899.90 --> 929.88] Thank you. -[929.90 --> 959.88] Thank you. -[959.88 --> 989.88] Thank you. -[989.88 --> 1019.88] Thank you. -[1019.88 --> 1049.88] Thank you. -[1049.88 --> 1079.86] Thank you. -[1079.88 --> 1109.86] Thank you. -[1109.88 --> 1139.86] Thank you. -[1139.88 --> 1169.86] Thank you. -[1169.88 --> 1199.86] Thank you. -[1199.88 --> 1229.86] Oh, praise the name of the name of the name of the Lord. -[1229.86 --> 1259.84] Thank you. -[1259.86 --> 1289.84] Thank you. -[1289.86 --> 1319.86] Oh, praise the name of the name of the Lord. -[1319.86 --> 1349.86] Oh, praise the Lord, our God. -[1349.86 --> 1379.84] Thank you. -[1379.86 --> 1409.86] Thank you. -[1409.86 --> 1439.84] Thank you. -[1439.86 --> 1441.86] Thank you. -[1469.86 --> 1471.86] Thank you. -[1499.86 --> 1501.86] Thank you. -[1529.86 --> 1531.86] Thank you. -[1559.86 --> 1561.86] Thank you. -[1589.86 --> 1591.86] Thank you. -[1619.86 --> 1621.86] Thank you. -[1649.86 --> 1651.86] Thank you. -[1679.86 --> 1681.86] Thank you. -[1709.86 --> 1711.86] Thank you. -[1739.86 --> 1741.86] Christ, -[1769.86 --> 1771.86] Thank you. -[1799.86 --> 1801.86] Thank you. -[1829.86 --> 1831.86] Thank you. -[1859.86 --> 1861.86] Thank you. -[1861.86 --> 1863.86] Thank you. -[1891.86 --> 1893.86] Thank you. -[1893.86 --> 1894.86] Thank you. -[1894.86 --> 1895.86] Thank you. -[1895.86 --> 1897.86] Thank you. -[1921.86 --> 1923.86] Good morning. -[1951.86 --> 1953.86] Thank you. -[1981.86 --> 1983.86] Thank you. -[1983.86 --> 1984.86] Thank you. -[2011.86 --> 2013.86] Thank you. -[2013.86 --> 2015.86] Thank you. -[2015.86 --> 2017.86] Thank you. -[2017.86 --> 2019.86] Thank you. -[2019.86 --> 2021.86] Thank you. -[2021.86 --> 2023.86] Thank you. -[2023.86 --> 2025.86] Thank you. -[2053.86 --> 2055.86] Thank you. -[2055.86 --> 2057.86] Thank you. -[2057.86 --> 2059.86] Thank you. -[2059.86 --> 2061.86] Thank you. -[2061.86 --> 2073.86] Thank you. -[2073.86 --> 2074.86] Thank you. -[2074.86 --> 2083.42] father -[2083.42 --> 2084.94] almighty -[2084.94 --> 2098.30] through your holy spirit conceiving christ our son jesus our savior -[2098.30 --> 2111.26] i believe in god our father i believe in christ our son i believe in the holy spirit -[2111.26 --> 2121.26] our god is three in one i believe in the resurrection that we will rise again -[2121.90 --> 2139.26] for i believe in the name of jesus -[2141.26 --> 2149.26] our judge and our defender suffered and crucified -[2149.26 --> 2153.26] forgiveness is in you -[2155.26 --> 2161.26] descended into darkness you rose in glorious light -[2161.26 --> 2171.26] forever -[2171.26 --> 2181.26] i believe in christ the son i believe in the holy spirit our god is three in one -[2181.26 --> 2191.26] is -[2191.26 --> 2197.26] the name of jesus -[2197.26 --> 2201.26] i believe in you -[2201.26 --> 2211.26] i believe in you -[2211.26 --> 2215.26] i believe in you -[2215.26 --> 2229.26] i believe in you -[2229.26 --> 2233.26] i believe in you -[2233.26 --> 2241.26] i believe in you -[2241.26 --> 2243.26] i believe in you -[2243.26 --> 2245.26] i believe in you -[2245.26 --> 2247.26] i believe in you -[2247.26 --> 2249.26] i believe in you -[2249.26 --> 2253.26] i believe in you -[2253.26 --> 2255.26] i believe in you -[2255.26 --> 2257.26] i believe in you -[2257.26 --> 2259.26] i believe in you -[2259.26 --> 2268.76] i believe in you -[2268.76 --> 2269.26] i believe in you -[2269.26 --> 2279.26] when jesus comes again for i believe in the name of jesus -[2279.26 --> 2289.26] i believe in god our father i believe in christ the son i believe in the holy spirit -[2289.26 --> 2298.30] our god is three in one i believe in the resurrection that he will rise again -[2299.26 --> 2313.26] for i believe in the name of jesus -[2313.26 --> 2319.26] i believe in the name of jesus -[2329.26 --> 2334.46] y'all are making your way to your seats why don't we have the kids who are going to head out to -[2334.46 --> 2338.86] children's worship time come on up all right first place to malachi -[2342.86 --> 2348.70] other malachi's third place nice job malachi h very good -[2351.42 --> 2357.26] all right welcome how are you guys doing today -[2357.26 --> 2364.86] good one slower good but still will follow the crowd i get it all right so i'm going to pray with -[2364.86 --> 2372.06] you guys and then you're going to head out to children's worship time um so can we pray together -[2373.02 --> 2379.98] all right let's do it thanks now okay let's pray lord jesus we come to you and we thank you that we -[2379.98 --> 2386.78] get to praise your name to sing to you and to learn about you be with these kids and with their parents -[2386.78 --> 2394.54] as we spend this rest of our time together learning about who you are and what you have done we love you -[2394.54 --> 2402.38] and we pray that we would experience more of your love in jesus name we pray amen all right so why -[2402.38 --> 2408.14] don't you guys jump up turn around some of you jumped up too good work -[2411.18 --> 2416.46] and we are going to bless them on the way out so we're going to say the lord be with you and then -[2416.46 --> 2423.50] congregation i invite you to respond with and also with you ready guys the lord be with you -[2423.50 --> 2450.62] here san eno amen -[2450.62 --> 2460.06] Good morning, my name is Glenn. -[2460.06 --> 2466.14] I'm one of the elders here at Langley Emanuel, and it is now my privilege to lead you in congregational prayer. -[2468.32 --> 2474.40] Father in heaven, we thank you for the opportunity to gather here this morning as your local church and to worship you. -[2475.12 --> 2479.40] You are holy, and you alone are worthy of our praise and adoration. -[2479.40 --> 2487.88] We thank you for the grace and the mercy shown to us through the life, death, and resurrection of our Lord and Savior Christ Jesus. -[2488.78 --> 2494.70] We thank you that he took the burden of our sin upon himself, and that we no longer bear that burden. -[2496.30 --> 2504.34] Give that we appreciate and celebrate this gospel story every day of our lives, and that we live out our calling wherever you place us. -[2504.34 --> 2512.30] We thank you for this church family, and for the many different gifts that you have given to each member here. -[2513.30 --> 2520.78] We thank you for the different ways the members of this church use those gifts in service to you, and to one another, and to the community. -[2520.78 --> 2528.34] We encourage each member to serve with joy and with enthusiasm, particularly during times of difficulty. -[2530.34 --> 2534.40] We ask that you bless the youth leaders who are attending a retreat this weekend. -[2534.40 --> 2542.70] We ask that they be encouraged in their work, and that they gain new insights into how to minister effectively to our youth, -[2543.66 --> 2551.00] particularly in an age where there are so many things competing for their attention and seeking to draw them from you. -[2552.20 --> 2555.10] Keep our youth grounded and rooted in you. -[2555.10 --> 2562.70] Bless Nicole Rook and Matt Woods as they make final preparations for their wedding in two weeks' time. -[2563.82 --> 2566.36] Prepare them for this exciting new chapter in their lives. -[2569.06 --> 2573.84] Despite the many things we have to celebrate, Lord, we live in a world that is stained by sin, -[2574.36 --> 2581.18] and this week we were reminded of that as we've witnessed death and the start of war in Europe. -[2581.18 --> 2590.94] We ask that you be with Pearl and John Denhan and the Limas family as they grieve the sudden loss of Pearl's brother, August. -[2592.08 --> 2595.00] May they experience your comforting presence as they grieve. -[2596.58 --> 2601.32] Continue to comfort Allison and Jeff Sanders, because Jeff's father passed away recently. -[2603.56 --> 2606.34] Father, we also ask that you be with those in the Ukraine. -[2606.34 --> 2615.26] It's hard to know what to pray for, but Lord, we ask that you put an end to the aggression and war, -[2616.34 --> 2620.64] and that the people there may experience peace. -[2624.22 --> 2627.20] Comfort those who have lost loved ones in this conflict. -[2628.62 --> 2635.06] Be with those who have fled and are now displaced at the borders of Romania and Poland. -[2635.06 --> 2642.18] Lord, we pray that you would meet their needs in terms of shelter, food, sanitation. -[2643.20 --> 2648.76] We ask that you bless all the agencies that are tasked with doing that, Lord, -[2648.94 --> 2651.14] and that their needs may be met. -[2653.72 --> 2658.00] Father, we ask that you bless those in our congregation who struggle with illness. -[2659.28 --> 2661.14] Grant healing, if that is your will. -[2661.14 --> 2674.18] Be with those who care for them, whether they are family members or medical professionals. -[2675.26 --> 2681.14] Give them wisdom to make the right decisions for their loved ones or patients, as the case may be. -[2683.46 --> 2686.14] Bless those who are dealing with broken or strained relationships. -[2686.14 --> 2693.32] We ask for your powerful presence in their lives and for the restoration of these relationships. -[2695.14 --> 2701.70] We continue to pray for the committee tasked with finding an executive director for the Canadian Christian Reformed Church. -[2702.94 --> 2706.96] Grant them wisdom as they discern who should be considered for this position. -[2706.96 --> 2712.72] Father, we thank you for your word given to us. -[2714.12 --> 2717.24] As we read it and spend time reflecting on it, -[2717.72 --> 2723.46] we ask that you grant Pastor Chris the ability to proclaim its truth with boldness and with clarity -[2723.46 --> 2728.88] and help us adopt a posture of willingness to receive the truth of your word. -[2729.96 --> 2734.48] Yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever. -[2735.08 --> 2735.38] Amen. -[2735.38 --> 2761.62] So as we jump into our time together, -[2761.62 --> 2767.54] particularly for those of you who are here in person this morning, -[2768.04 --> 2771.52] some of you have already noticed that there's this big white bandage on my thumb, -[2771.90 --> 2773.62] and it's been distracting for you. -[2773.68 --> 2777.20] So I just want to dispel the rumors and why it is there. -[2777.62 --> 2780.42] And as I move my hands around, you aren't further distracted. -[2780.56 --> 2783.82] But last night I was making dinner, and I was using a mandolin. -[2783.82 --> 2787.26] I don't need to tell you the rest of the story. -[2789.34 --> 2790.66] So there's that. -[2791.04 --> 2795.54] I thought it was better to keep it covered than to risk what else might happen. -[2796.82 --> 2801.12] We are going to continue looking at the book of Exodus. -[2801.12 --> 2811.98] Today we are going to look in chapter 16 at the provision of God for the people with manna and quail from heaven. -[2812.18 --> 2819.76] And before we get into that, I just want to convey a story to you, a personal story, a situation. -[2819.76 --> 2832.54] A few years ago, in 2018, I had the opportunity to travel with a group of pastors and our spouses to Egypt and Israel and Jordan. -[2832.54 --> 2844.10] And we came on part of that trip into the region of Timna, Timna National Park, which is just north of Elat, -[2844.22 --> 2848.76] which is at the end of the Gulf of Aqaba on the Israel side. -[2848.90 --> 2853.32] It's traditionally part of what would have been considered the northern Sinai region. -[2853.42 --> 2854.72] I think there's a picture. -[2854.90 --> 2856.70] If we put that first picture up, -[2856.70 --> 2862.12] On the top right, you can see a bit of a map there. -[2862.60 --> 2869.22] The Sinai Peninsula is what comes down between the Gulf of Suez and the Gulf of Aqaba on one side. -[2869.22 --> 2874.64] And then right across the northern part of the Sinai Peninsula, there's a road. -[2875.06 --> 2880.32] Kind of where that road hits the eastern side there, that's where the Timna National Park is. -[2880.32 --> 2886.76] We had the opportunity as a group to travel and to visit Timna National Park. -[2886.86 --> 2896.70] Now, the day that we got to this region, it was 45 degrees Celsius at 9 o'clock in the morning. -[2899.08 --> 2904.98] And we got off our bus, we put our packs on, and we started hiking through the desert. -[2904.98 --> 2911.96] And we walked for about half an hour, and then George, who was our group leader and teacher, -[2912.12 --> 2916.60] he said, okay, stop, take your backpacks off, put them on the ground. -[2917.40 --> 2923.74] And we stood there for a few minutes, and he said, okay, put your backpack on and keep hiking. -[2924.14 --> 2927.56] And so then we walked for another little while, and they said, okay, now stop, -[2927.56 --> 2935.44] take your backpack off, put it on the ground, okay, put it on and keep walking. -[2935.58 --> 2941.54] And we continued to do that over and over again, and it continued to get hotter and hotter. -[2941.64 --> 2945.18] I'm pretty sure on that day, I drank four liters of water before noon. -[2946.08 --> 2947.26] That's how hot it was. -[2947.56 --> 2954.70] Actually, the couple days after, more than like 80% of our group got heat stroke and was down and out -[2954.70 --> 2958.20] because of that particular day and that morning. -[2958.90 --> 2965.58] About 30 minutes into our first hike, when George asked us to stop one more time and to put our bags down, -[2965.92 --> 2970.28] someone from the back of the group, there was about 45 of us, said, why are we doing this? -[2971.56 --> 2972.86] And George said, right there. -[2974.48 --> 2975.14] Right there. -[2975.22 --> 2980.50] It took you half an hour before you started to grumble and complain. -[2981.70 --> 2983.70] The Israelites did this for 40 years. -[2984.70 --> 2992.24] This is relatively the same region and the same circumstance and the same temperature -[2992.24 --> 2997.28] that the Israelites would have had to deal with as they wandered through that region. -[2997.38 --> 2998.96] You see the image behind me. -[2999.08 --> 3008.56] That's the desert of the northern Sinai Peninsula, the southern region of Judea or the Negev or the Desert of Sin, -[3008.64 --> 3010.32] if you move further to the west. -[3010.40 --> 3012.64] You will hear these place names as we go through. -[3012.64 --> 3020.76] We were a group of sanctified pastors and our more sanctified spouses, -[3021.18 --> 3025.00] and it took us 30 minutes before we started complaining. -[3026.02 --> 3029.16] That experience changed the way I read this story. -[3030.82 --> 3035.20] So I want to share that with you as we jump into this text. -[3035.20 --> 3040.94] I'm going to read starting at verse 1, and then we'll stop at verse 18. -[3040.94 --> 3050.40] The whole Israelite community set out from Elim and came to the Desert of Sin, -[3050.74 --> 3057.08] which is between Elim and Sinai, on the 15th day of the second month after they had come out of Egypt. -[3057.80 --> 3062.36] In the desert, the whole community grumbled against Moses and Aaron. -[3062.36 --> 3065.12] And the Israelites said to them, -[3066.12 --> 3068.90] If only we had died by the Lord's hand in Egypt. -[3069.58 --> 3073.18] There we sat around pots of meat and ate all the food we wanted, -[3073.46 --> 3078.64] but you have brought us out into this desert to starve this entire assembly to death. -[3080.10 --> 3082.98] Then the Lord said to Moses, -[3082.98 --> 3109.20] So Moses and Aaron said to all the Israelites, -[3109.20 --> 3123.80] Who are we that you should grumble against us? -[3124.50 --> 3125.50] Moses also said, -[3125.50 --> 3129.66] You will know that it was the Lord when he gives you meat in the evening -[3129.66 --> 3132.12] and all the bread you want in the morning, -[3132.54 --> 3135.10] because he has heard your grumbling against him. -[3135.74 --> 3136.68] Who are we? -[3136.68 --> 3139.80] You are not grumbling against us, but against the Lord. -[3141.04 --> 3143.26] Then Moses told Aaron, -[3144.20 --> 3146.44] Say to the entire Israelite community, -[3146.94 --> 3150.66] Come before the Lord, for he has heard your grumbling. -[3152.20 --> 3155.26] Now while Aaron was speaking to the whole Israelite community, -[3155.44 --> 3156.76] they looked toward the desert, -[3157.22 --> 3160.82] and there was the glory of the Lord appearing in a cloud. -[3161.90 --> 3163.32] The Lord said to Moses, -[3163.32 --> 3165.74] I have heard the grumbling of the Israelites. -[3166.30 --> 3166.78] Tell them, -[3166.96 --> 3168.50] At twilight you will eat meat, -[3168.56 --> 3170.38] and in the morning you will be filled with bread, -[3170.52 --> 3174.74] and then you will know that I am the Lord your God. -[3176.22 --> 3179.08] That evening quail came and covered the camp. -[3179.92 --> 3182.64] And in the morning there was a layer of dew around the camp, -[3182.68 --> 3183.94] and when the dew was gone, -[3184.14 --> 3188.06] thin flakes like frost on the ground appeared on the desert floor. -[3188.06 --> 3190.66] When the Israelites saw it, -[3190.82 --> 3191.82] they said to each other, -[3192.28 --> 3192.86] What is it? -[3193.50 --> 3194.92] For they did not know what it was. -[3196.44 --> 3197.66] Moses said to them, -[3198.12 --> 3200.62] It is the bread the Lord has given you to eat. -[3201.26 --> 3202.88] This is what the Lord has commanded. -[3203.32 --> 3205.60] Everyone is to gather as much as they need. -[3206.00 --> 3209.30] Take an omer for each person you have in your tent. -[3209.30 --> 3212.58] The Israelites did as they were told. -[3213.10 --> 3213.98] Some gathered much, -[3214.24 --> 3215.40] some gathered little. -[3215.88 --> 3217.62] And when they measured it by the omer, -[3217.92 --> 3220.14] the one who gathered much did not have too much, -[3220.20 --> 3222.72] and the one who gathered little did not have too little. -[3223.30 --> 3227.20] Everyone had gathered just as much as they needed. -[3228.02 --> 3229.10] This is the word of the Lord. -[3232.68 --> 3233.20] Now, -[3233.42 --> 3237.30] to get you into the mind space of this story, -[3237.30 --> 3241.22] I don't want you to miss the timing of this event. -[3241.62 --> 3241.80] Okay? -[3241.88 --> 3243.70] In the very first verse. -[3244.72 --> 3249.94] On the 15th day of the second month after they had come out of Egypt. -[3250.54 --> 3251.02] Now, -[3251.04 --> 3252.50] who remembers when they came out of Egypt? -[3253.36 --> 3253.88] Right? -[3253.94 --> 3257.60] That was the 15th day of the first month. -[3258.30 --> 3262.46] You can go back to chapter 12 in the story of the Passover and read the details. -[3262.68 --> 3265.90] But what that means is that it's only been a month -[3265.90 --> 3268.00] since leaving Egypt. -[3268.68 --> 3269.38] That's it. -[3269.92 --> 3271.72] Just one month. -[3272.56 --> 3273.12] Now, -[3273.16 --> 3276.96] this story that we read here is part of a larger section -[3276.96 --> 3280.48] that tells of God's provisions for the people -[3280.48 --> 3284.30] during this first part of the wilderness wandering. -[3284.30 --> 3287.80] And it leads up to the giving of the law at Mount Sinai. -[3288.48 --> 3288.66] Now, -[3288.70 --> 3291.92] there are two stories in this section on the provision of water, -[3291.92 --> 3296.12] and then our story on the provision of bread and meat for the people. -[3296.82 --> 3298.30] You can see if your Bibles are open, -[3298.38 --> 3299.74] the end of chapter 15, -[3300.16 --> 3302.16] bitter water is made drinkable -[3302.16 --> 3304.58] because Moses throws a piece of wood into it. -[3304.70 --> 3305.98] And then chapter 17, -[3306.58 --> 3307.90] water comes out of a rock -[3307.90 --> 3310.10] because Moses hits it with his staff. -[3311.04 --> 3311.88] These stories, -[3312.14 --> 3312.72] all of them, -[3312.80 --> 3315.74] are connected by two things. -[3316.38 --> 3317.52] In the first place, -[3317.52 --> 3320.44] they're connected by the people grumbling against God -[3320.44 --> 3321.36] and against Moses. -[3322.24 --> 3323.66] And then in the second place, -[3323.80 --> 3326.32] they are connected by God providing for them -[3326.32 --> 3327.72] again and again -[3327.72 --> 3330.08] in spite of that grumbling. -[3331.44 --> 3332.00] Now, -[3332.08 --> 3334.22] in the story of the Sea of Reeds, -[3334.30 --> 3335.66] which we just looked at, -[3336.00 --> 3337.86] we saw a people who grumbled -[3337.86 --> 3338.80] and who complained -[3338.80 --> 3341.66] because they judged their own circumstances -[3341.66 --> 3345.18] as the standard on which to base reality. -[3345.18 --> 3347.30] And in the Sea of Reeds, -[3347.40 --> 3348.24] the Red Sea story, -[3348.36 --> 3349.54] God reminded them -[3349.54 --> 3352.20] that it is his action in history -[3352.20 --> 3353.62] that is the true standard. -[3354.76 --> 3355.60] And that story, -[3355.90 --> 3356.72] chapter 14, -[3357.22 --> 3358.40] ends by saying -[3358.40 --> 3360.64] that the people feared the Lord -[3360.64 --> 3362.04] and put their trust in him -[3362.04 --> 3363.28] and Moses their servant. -[3364.38 --> 3364.92] And now, -[3365.92 --> 3367.08] not even one month later, -[3367.86 --> 3369.32] they're back to their old ways. -[3370.52 --> 3370.98] Right? -[3371.02 --> 3372.40] They haven't really learned yet -[3372.40 --> 3374.56] that even though there's no water or no food, -[3374.56 --> 3376.54] God is above those circumstances. -[3377.48 --> 3378.06] And so, -[3378.38 --> 3379.14] they grumble -[3379.14 --> 3380.84] and complain. -[3382.30 --> 3384.22] And what's amazing about this text, -[3384.28 --> 3385.78] and we're going to return to this more fully -[3385.78 --> 3387.34] near the end of our time, -[3387.60 --> 3389.80] is that God uses their grumbling -[3389.80 --> 3390.80] and their complaining -[3390.80 --> 3392.06] as the occasion -[3392.06 --> 3395.10] to reveal himself in grace -[3395.10 --> 3397.64] and not to punish them. -[3399.40 --> 3399.88] Right? -[3399.90 --> 3400.44] It's hot. -[3401.16 --> 3402.32] There's no food. -[3402.70 --> 3404.12] There's little to no water. -[3404.12 --> 3405.74] They didn't have camel packs -[3405.74 --> 3407.32] that carried two liters of water -[3407.32 --> 3407.98] with the opportunity -[3407.98 --> 3409.56] to go refill it on the tourist bus -[3409.56 --> 3410.42] halfway through the day. -[3411.54 --> 3412.00] Right? -[3412.04 --> 3413.14] It's not surprising -[3413.14 --> 3414.26] that they complained. -[3415.08 --> 3415.20] Right? -[3415.22 --> 3416.42] That's what changed for me -[3416.42 --> 3417.70] as I walked in the desert -[3417.70 --> 3419.22] in that 45 degree heat. -[3419.70 --> 3422.36] I went into that day -[3422.36 --> 3422.78] thinking, -[3423.00 --> 3424.20] how could they complain? -[3424.32 --> 3426.22] How could they prefer slavery -[3426.22 --> 3427.94] in Egypt -[3427.94 --> 3429.68] over freedom -[3429.68 --> 3430.82] in some hot weather? -[3431.82 --> 3432.76] And then I did it. -[3432.76 --> 3435.66] And I had a little bit more empathy -[3435.66 --> 3436.90] in that moment. -[3438.74 --> 3440.60] Now maybe when you read this story, -[3440.72 --> 3441.34] you do the same. -[3441.46 --> 3442.94] You jump to judgment. -[3443.10 --> 3443.24] Right? -[3443.28 --> 3444.66] How on earth can they prefer -[3444.66 --> 3446.26] slavery and a full belly -[3446.26 --> 3447.32] over freedom -[3447.32 --> 3448.26] and a little bit of hunger? -[3449.32 --> 3451.28] But I want you to really think about that -[3451.28 --> 3452.38] this morning. -[3452.76 --> 3452.96] Right? -[3452.96 --> 3455.46] Because it's really easy for us -[3455.46 --> 3456.88] to suppose -[3456.88 --> 3457.58] that the, -[3457.68 --> 3458.38] what's the say, -[3458.44 --> 3459.60] that the grass is greener -[3459.60 --> 3460.52] on the other side. -[3461.42 --> 3461.64] Right? -[3461.70 --> 3463.32] It's easier for some of us -[3463.32 --> 3463.98] to think that -[3463.98 --> 3465.54] things were so much better -[3465.54 --> 3466.68] in the good old days. -[3468.68 --> 3469.12] Right? -[3469.12 --> 3469.72] How many of us -[3469.72 --> 3471.34] have faced hard times -[3471.34 --> 3473.62] and then shouted out -[3473.62 --> 3474.30] to God -[3474.30 --> 3475.64] at the unfairness of it all? -[3476.44 --> 3477.38] How many times -[3477.38 --> 3478.50] have you been in a situation -[3478.50 --> 3479.72] where it just didn't seem -[3479.72 --> 3480.40] to make sense? -[3480.40 --> 3481.22] it didn't seem -[3481.22 --> 3482.04] to have a purpose. -[3485.32 --> 3485.76] Maybe -[3485.76 --> 3489.60] the cancer diagnosis -[3489.60 --> 3491.12] has come back -[3491.12 --> 3493.98] and we cry out, -[3494.34 --> 3494.56] well, -[3495.84 --> 3496.84] you're just going to -[3496.84 --> 3497.58] leave me to die, -[3497.90 --> 3498.20] God? -[3500.12 --> 3500.56] Maybe, -[3500.90 --> 3502.26] I mean it's February -[3502.26 --> 3503.46] and the end of February -[3503.46 --> 3503.98] so maybe -[3503.98 --> 3505.86] depression came back -[3505.86 --> 3506.54] with a vengeance -[3506.54 --> 3507.68] and you feel -[3507.68 --> 3508.46] so alone -[3508.46 --> 3510.06] and if God -[3510.06 --> 3511.06] really loved me -[3511.06 --> 3512.14] he wouldn't let me -[3512.14 --> 3512.86] feel this way. -[3514.70 --> 3514.82] Right? -[3514.86 --> 3515.88] Some of us have known -[3515.88 --> 3517.04] and experienced -[3517.04 --> 3518.58] the blessing of God -[3518.58 --> 3519.94] our entire lives. -[3520.02 --> 3520.90] We can't think back -[3520.90 --> 3521.34] on a moment -[3521.34 --> 3522.08] where God hasn't -[3522.08 --> 3523.32] richly blessed us -[3523.32 --> 3523.88] and then -[3523.88 --> 3524.64] when we face -[3524.64 --> 3525.32] one trial -[3525.32 --> 3526.40] or one hardship -[3526.40 --> 3527.24] all of that -[3527.24 --> 3528.28] becomes meaningless. -[3531.70 --> 3532.80] When we are not -[3532.80 --> 3533.68] in a situation -[3533.68 --> 3534.62] when -[3534.62 --> 3537.00] where the cupboards -[3537.00 --> 3537.68] are full -[3537.68 --> 3538.82] or retirement -[3538.82 --> 3540.08] is secure -[3540.08 --> 3540.62] right? -[3540.66 --> 3541.42] It's easy -[3541.42 --> 3542.16] to suppose -[3542.16 --> 3543.44] that only -[3543.44 --> 3543.98] the most -[3543.98 --> 3544.96] hard-hearted -[3544.96 --> 3545.68] stubborn -[3545.68 --> 3546.54] or callous -[3546.54 --> 3547.20] people -[3547.20 --> 3548.00] would grumble -[3548.00 --> 3548.70] and complain -[3548.70 --> 3549.66] against God -[3549.66 --> 3550.84] and yet -[3550.84 --> 3553.36] when the cost -[3553.36 --> 3553.78] of living -[3553.78 --> 3554.78] keeps going up -[3554.78 --> 3556.18] seemingly exponentially -[3556.18 --> 3557.22] right? -[3557.24 --> 3557.68] When the price -[3557.68 --> 3558.18] of fuel -[3558.18 --> 3559.14] and hydro -[3559.14 --> 3560.18] and natural gas -[3560.18 --> 3561.44] just keeps rising -[3561.44 --> 3562.68] when the dream -[3562.68 --> 3563.84] of owning a home -[3563.84 --> 3564.48] for some of you -[3564.48 --> 3565.32] is just that -[3565.32 --> 3565.88] a dream -[3565.88 --> 3566.84] that never seems -[3566.84 --> 3567.22] like it will -[3567.22 --> 3567.78] become real -[3567.78 --> 3569.16] right? -[3569.20 --> 3569.66] When you're living -[3569.66 --> 3570.24] paycheck -[3570.24 --> 3571.10] to paycheck -[3571.10 --> 3571.88] to paycheck -[3571.88 --> 3572.94] with no end -[3572.94 --> 3573.66] to the struggle -[3573.66 --> 3574.24] in sight -[3574.24 --> 3574.96] it becomes -[3574.96 --> 3576.00] really easy -[3576.00 --> 3576.54] does it not -[3576.54 --> 3577.18] to be bitter -[3577.18 --> 3578.46] and to blame -[3578.46 --> 3578.86] God -[3578.86 --> 3579.40] or to blame -[3579.40 --> 3579.94] the government -[3579.94 --> 3581.16] or to grumble -[3581.16 --> 3582.44] and complain. -[3584.50 --> 3585.48] The challenge -[3585.48 --> 3586.50] that Israel -[3586.50 --> 3587.92] still had to learn -[3587.92 --> 3588.48] and the challenge -[3588.48 --> 3589.66] that we are -[3589.66 --> 3590.60] here to learn -[3590.60 --> 3591.44] again and again -[3591.44 --> 3592.50] is that God -[3592.50 --> 3594.20] based on the evidence -[3594.20 --> 3595.08] of his past -[3595.08 --> 3595.86] action -[3595.86 --> 3597.26] is most -[3597.26 --> 3598.06] trustworthy -[3598.06 --> 3600.12] and if you let him -[3600.12 --> 3601.24] he will provide -[3601.24 --> 3602.66] but here's where -[3602.66 --> 3603.58] it gets really hard -[3603.58 --> 3604.74] and here's where -[3604.74 --> 3605.16] some of you -[3605.16 --> 3605.54] are going to get -[3605.54 --> 3605.90] mad at me -[3605.90 --> 3606.34] this morning -[3606.34 --> 3608.50] because if God -[3608.50 --> 3609.42] doesn't provide -[3609.42 --> 3611.62] it's either -[3611.62 --> 3613.16] because he knows -[3613.16 --> 3614.10] you don't need it -[3614.10 --> 3616.04] or because he -[3616.04 --> 3617.12] wants you to know -[3617.12 --> 3618.16] that you need him -[3618.16 --> 3618.60] more -[3618.60 --> 3620.18] than whatever -[3620.18 --> 3620.92] that thing is. -[3622.50 --> 3623.32] Because yes -[3623.32 --> 3624.20] life in Egypt -[3624.20 --> 3624.84] was hard -[3624.84 --> 3625.82] right? -[3625.88 --> 3626.76] Life in the desert -[3626.76 --> 3627.54] was probably -[3627.54 --> 3628.86] still harder -[3628.86 --> 3629.90] right? -[3629.92 --> 3630.60] We can understand -[3630.60 --> 3631.14] that it's not -[3631.14 --> 3632.18] an easy place -[3632.18 --> 3632.60] to live -[3632.60 --> 3633.48] and this is made -[3633.48 --> 3634.20] more difficult -[3634.20 --> 3634.72] by the fact -[3634.72 --> 3635.64] that there was -[3635.64 --> 3637.20] two million plus -[3637.20 --> 3638.22] maybe people -[3638.22 --> 3639.36] in this moment -[3639.36 --> 3639.64] right? -[3639.68 --> 3640.52] And the only way -[3640.52 --> 3641.28] that that kind -[3641.28 --> 3642.42] of people group -[3642.42 --> 3644.10] are able to survive -[3644.10 --> 3645.02] in that moment -[3645.02 --> 3646.12] is if they trust -[3646.12 --> 3647.24] God completely -[3647.24 --> 3648.48] right? -[3648.60 --> 3649.84] All pretense -[3649.84 --> 3651.62] at self-sufficiency -[3651.62 --> 3653.06] at individual -[3653.06 --> 3653.78] autonomy -[3653.78 --> 3654.24] or even -[3654.24 --> 3654.90] community -[3654.90 --> 3655.58] autonomy -[3655.58 --> 3656.26] has to be -[3656.26 --> 3656.66] discarded -[3656.66 --> 3657.48] has to be -[3657.48 --> 3658.02] cast off -[3658.02 --> 3659.04] the Bible -[3659.04 --> 3660.04] clearly shows -[3660.04 --> 3661.02] over and over -[3661.02 --> 3661.80] and over again -[3661.80 --> 3662.22] and we know -[3662.22 --> 3662.92] this from our -[3662.92 --> 3663.64] own experience -[3663.64 --> 3663.88] right? -[3664.18 --> 3664.72] That total -[3664.72 --> 3665.38] trust and -[3665.38 --> 3665.76] obedience -[3665.76 --> 3666.30] in those -[3666.30 --> 3666.62] moments -[3666.62 --> 3668.40] really hard -[3668.40 --> 3669.36] and it's -[3669.36 --> 3670.02] really rare -[3670.02 --> 3670.70] for even -[3670.70 --> 3671.08] the most -[3671.08 --> 3671.56] godly -[3671.56 --> 3672.44] person -[3672.44 --> 3675.10] now -[3675.10 --> 3677.42] as we dig -[3677.42 --> 3678.02] into this -[3678.02 --> 3678.40] I want to -[3678.40 --> 3679.50] make a -[3679.50 --> 3679.88] clarification -[3679.88 --> 3680.42] here -[3680.42 --> 3680.72] because -[3680.72 --> 3681.34] it's -[3681.34 --> 3681.84] important -[3681.84 --> 3682.68] to see -[3682.68 --> 3682.96] that -[3682.96 --> 3684.08] complaint -[3684.08 --> 3685.02] right? -[3685.08 --> 3685.54] Is not -[3685.54 --> 3686.36] always a -[3686.36 --> 3687.12] bad thing -[3687.12 --> 3687.74] in the -[3687.74 --> 3688.04] Bible -[3688.04 --> 3689.20] right? -[3689.24 --> 3689.54] There's a -[3689.54 --> 3690.84] whole genre -[3690.84 --> 3692.78] of psalms -[3692.78 --> 3693.86] the worship -[3693.86 --> 3694.84] book of Israel -[3694.84 --> 3695.42] that are -[3695.42 --> 3696.04] complaints -[3696.04 --> 3696.62] against -[3696.62 --> 3697.52] God -[3697.52 --> 3697.96] right? -[3697.96 --> 3698.52] Complaints -[3698.52 --> 3699.14] against God -[3699.14 --> 3699.96] for abandoning -[3699.96 --> 3700.68] them apparently -[3700.68 --> 3701.42] or complaints -[3701.42 --> 3701.98] against God -[3701.98 --> 3702.46] for the -[3702.46 --> 3702.88] enemy -[3702.88 --> 3704.12] of Israel -[3704.12 --> 3704.60] to be -[3704.60 --> 3705.02] winning -[3705.02 --> 3705.50] or getting -[3705.50 --> 3705.96] its way -[3705.96 --> 3706.50] complaints -[3706.50 --> 3707.22] against God -[3707.22 --> 3707.94] for him -[3707.94 --> 3708.70] not seeming -[3708.70 --> 3709.00] to be -[3709.00 --> 3709.30] faithful -[3709.30 --> 3709.68] to his -[3709.68 --> 3709.98] covenant -[3709.98 --> 3710.92] provinces -[3710.92 --> 3713.44] but there's -[3713.44 --> 3714.10] a difference -[3714.10 --> 3715.92] because as -[3715.92 --> 3716.62] the psalmist -[3716.62 --> 3717.38] cries out -[3717.38 --> 3718.06] to God -[3718.06 --> 3719.14] in complaints -[3719.14 --> 3719.62] or in -[3719.62 --> 3720.30] lament -[3720.30 --> 3721.12] he does -[3721.12 --> 3722.12] so because -[3722.12 --> 3722.88] of his -[3722.88 --> 3723.66] faith that -[3723.66 --> 3724.28] God is -[3724.28 --> 3725.08] still there -[3725.08 --> 3725.76] to hear -[3725.76 --> 3726.60] that complaint -[3726.60 --> 3728.00] right? -[3728.06 --> 3728.60] He knows -[3728.60 --> 3729.04] in his -[3729.04 --> 3729.44] heart -[3729.44 --> 3730.38] that God -[3730.38 --> 3731.24] is present -[3731.24 --> 3731.96] even if -[3731.96 --> 3732.44] he can't -[3732.44 --> 3733.00] see him -[3733.00 --> 3733.62] in his -[3733.62 --> 3733.98] life -[3733.98 --> 3735.26] the -[3735.26 --> 3735.78] complaining -[3735.78 --> 3736.42] that Israel -[3736.42 --> 3737.04] is doing -[3737.04 --> 3737.58] here -[3737.58 --> 3738.54] is of a -[3738.54 --> 3738.80] different -[3738.80 --> 3739.44] category -[3739.44 --> 3740.76] right? -[3740.82 --> 3741.38] The complaining -[3741.38 --> 3742.38] here is not -[3742.38 --> 3743.26] to God -[3743.26 --> 3745.06] but against -[3745.06 --> 3746.24] God -[3746.24 --> 3747.60] right? -[3747.64 --> 3747.92] If the -[3747.92 --> 3748.30] psalmist -[3748.30 --> 3749.02] complains -[3749.02 --> 3750.10] because she -[3750.10 --> 3751.02] has faith -[3751.02 --> 3752.70] the Israelites -[3752.70 --> 3753.54] complain -[3753.54 --> 3754.78] because of a -[3754.78 --> 3755.38] lack of -[3755.38 --> 3755.66] faith -[3755.66 --> 3757.50] right? -[3757.50 --> 3758.00] At the first -[3758.00 --> 3758.54] sign of -[3758.54 --> 3758.92] trouble -[3758.92 --> 3759.98] or difficulty -[3759.98 --> 3760.56] the people -[3760.56 --> 3761.52] resort back -[3761.52 --> 3762.26] into their -[3762.26 --> 3763.06] default -[3763.06 --> 3763.78] self-centered -[3763.78 --> 3764.40] way of -[3764.40 --> 3764.92] viewing the -[3764.92 --> 3765.22] world -[3765.22 --> 3765.54] and they -[3765.54 --> 3766.08] turn from -[3766.08 --> 3766.40] God -[3766.40 --> 3767.04] because he -[3767.04 --> 3767.70] has forgotten -[3767.70 --> 3768.26] them or -[3768.26 --> 3768.98] been unfair -[3768.98 --> 3769.44] to them -[3769.44 --> 3771.68] and that's -[3771.68 --> 3772.24] important for -[3772.24 --> 3772.98] us to see -[3772.98 --> 3773.78] and to hear -[3773.78 --> 3774.14] because there's -[3774.14 --> 3775.32] a principle -[3775.32 --> 3776.76] underneath it -[3776.76 --> 3777.94] right? -[3778.02 --> 3779.06] When you -[3779.06 --> 3779.82] yourselves -[3779.82 --> 3781.50] are grumbling -[3781.50 --> 3783.38] or complaining -[3783.38 --> 3785.30] whether to -[3785.30 --> 3785.78] God or -[3785.78 --> 3786.44] about God -[3786.44 --> 3786.80] or to -[3786.80 --> 3787.40] other people -[3787.40 --> 3788.28] about other -[3788.28 --> 3788.72] people -[3788.72 --> 3789.94] ask yourself -[3789.94 --> 3790.34] this -[3790.34 --> 3791.30] am I -[3791.30 --> 3791.80] grumbling -[3791.80 --> 3792.50] right now -[3792.50 --> 3793.20] because I'm -[3793.20 --> 3794.10] being self-centered? -[3794.90 --> 3795.80] Is my -[3795.80 --> 3796.68] selfishness -[3796.68 --> 3797.38] dictating -[3797.38 --> 3798.30] my emotions -[3798.30 --> 3798.94] or the -[3798.94 --> 3799.38] perspective -[3799.38 --> 3799.92] of my -[3799.92 --> 3800.50] situation -[3800.50 --> 3801.32] right now? -[3802.04 --> 3802.82] Ask yourself -[3802.82 --> 3803.46] am I -[3803.46 --> 3804.24] lamenting -[3804.24 --> 3804.66] right? -[3804.74 --> 3805.40] The lamenting -[3805.40 --> 3805.82] is the -[3805.82 --> 3806.62] legitimate -[3806.62 --> 3807.44] crying out -[3807.44 --> 3807.88] to God -[3807.88 --> 3808.68] for justice -[3808.68 --> 3809.32] and his -[3809.32 --> 3809.72] presence -[3809.72 --> 3810.08] to be -[3810.08 --> 3810.56] restored -[3810.56 --> 3811.16] because of -[3811.16 --> 3811.66] my faith -[3811.66 --> 3812.18] in him -[3812.18 --> 3813.06] or -[3813.06 --> 3815.00] are you -[3815.00 --> 3815.34] grumbling -[3815.34 --> 3816.12] and complaining -[3816.12 --> 3816.66] because of -[3816.66 --> 3817.06] a lack -[3817.06 --> 3817.60] of faith -[3817.60 --> 3818.24] in your -[3818.24 --> 3818.70] life right -[3818.70 --> 3818.92] now? -[3819.92 --> 3820.76] And if it's -[3820.76 --> 3821.24] the latter -[3821.24 --> 3822.74] what would -[3822.74 --> 3823.44] it look like -[3823.44 --> 3824.28] to pursue -[3824.28 --> 3825.44] faith in -[3825.44 --> 3826.90] that moment? -[3829.10 --> 3829.38] Let me -[3829.38 --> 3829.82] just say -[3829.82 --> 3831.92] we are -[3831.92 --> 3832.40] all -[3832.40 --> 3833.14] myself -[3833.14 --> 3833.64] included -[3833.64 --> 3834.56] we are -[3834.56 --> 3835.50] all really -[3835.50 --> 3836.34] susceptible -[3836.34 --> 3837.82] to self-centered -[3837.82 --> 3838.48] complaining -[3838.48 --> 3839.30] right now -[3841.16 --> 3842.04] this is the -[3842.04 --> 3842.58] culture we -[3842.58 --> 3843.16] live in -[3843.16 --> 3845.38] but as -[3845.38 --> 3846.06] Christians -[3846.06 --> 3847.72] as disciples -[3847.72 --> 3848.22] of Jesus -[3848.22 --> 3849.08] as followers -[3849.08 --> 3849.46] of God -[3849.46 --> 3850.12] we need to -[3850.12 --> 3850.98] be different -[3850.98 --> 3851.78] in that -[3851.78 --> 3854.84] think prayerfully -[3854.84 --> 3856.20] about that -[3856.20 --> 3857.22] this week -[3857.22 --> 3859.96] now -[3859.96 --> 3862.42] we continue -[3862.42 --> 3863.10] the story -[3863.10 --> 3864.10] of Israel's -[3864.10 --> 3864.80] grumbling -[3864.80 --> 3865.74] through the -[3865.74 --> 3866.18] book of -[3866.18 --> 3866.58] numbers -[3866.58 --> 3868.34] this grumbling -[3868.34 --> 3869.12] people -[3869.12 --> 3870.20] will eventually -[3870.20 --> 3871.34] come to a -[3871.34 --> 3871.82] head with -[3871.82 --> 3872.18] God -[3872.18 --> 3872.72] and God -[3872.72 --> 3873.50] will in -[3873.50 --> 3874.30] fact punish -[3874.30 --> 3874.74] the people -[3874.74 --> 3875.34] by saying -[3875.34 --> 3876.42] that those -[3876.42 --> 3877.20] of them -[3877.20 --> 3877.58] who are -[3877.58 --> 3878.32] 20 years -[3878.32 --> 3878.94] or older -[3878.94 --> 3879.44] will not -[3879.44 --> 3879.90] enter the -[3879.90 --> 3880.52] promised land -[3880.52 --> 3881.78] right -[3881.78 --> 3882.26] the term -[3882.26 --> 3883.18] of Israel's -[3883.18 --> 3883.58] wandering -[3883.58 --> 3884.20] as being -[3884.20 --> 3885.24] 40 years -[3885.24 --> 3885.62] in the -[3885.62 --> 3885.92] wilderness -[3885.92 --> 3886.70] is determined -[3886.70 --> 3887.76] by the -[3887.76 --> 3888.28] death of -[3888.28 --> 3888.76] the last -[3888.76 --> 3889.42] person of -[3889.42 --> 3889.66] this -[3889.66 --> 3890.24] generation -[3890.24 --> 3891.32] you can -[3891.32 --> 3891.66] read that -[3891.66 --> 3892.06] in the -[3892.06 --> 3892.30] book of -[3892.30 --> 3892.58] numbers -[3892.58 --> 3894.32] and so -[3894.32 --> 3894.92] while punishment -[3894.92 --> 3896.26] is coming -[3896.26 --> 3897.00] for these -[3897.00 --> 3897.80] people in -[3897.80 --> 3898.34] their grumbling -[3898.34 --> 3899.26] what's amazing -[3899.26 --> 3900.14] about this -[3900.14 --> 3900.78] story -[3900.78 --> 3901.74] right here -[3901.74 --> 3902.50] is not so -[3902.50 --> 3903.02] much that the -[3903.02 --> 3903.66] people grumbled -[3903.66 --> 3904.18] because we -[3904.18 --> 3904.58] get that -[3904.58 --> 3906.28] right that's -[3906.28 --> 3906.82] pretty common -[3906.82 --> 3907.92] what is -[3907.92 --> 3908.62] significant -[3908.62 --> 3910.44] is how -[3910.44 --> 3911.82] God responds -[3911.82 --> 3912.72] in this -[3912.72 --> 3913.08] moment -[3913.08 --> 3914.20] right rather -[3914.20 --> 3914.94] than punish -[3914.94 --> 3915.60] the people -[3915.60 --> 3916.80] he literally -[3916.80 --> 3918.00] rains down -[3918.00 --> 3918.72] bread from -[3918.72 --> 3919.08] heaven -[3919.08 --> 3920.62] rather than -[3920.62 --> 3921.52] treat them -[3921.52 --> 3922.34] as he is -[3922.34 --> 3923.00] being treated -[3923.00 --> 3923.96] he provides -[3923.96 --> 3924.38] for them -[3924.38 --> 3925.16] and he does -[3925.16 --> 3925.82] so without -[3925.82 --> 3926.94] even a hint -[3926.94 --> 3927.76] of anger -[3927.76 --> 3929.04] or malice -[3929.04 --> 3929.66] right he -[3929.66 --> 3930.42] provides -[3930.42 --> 3931.12] for his -[3931.12 --> 3931.48] people -[3931.48 --> 3933.78] we read -[3933.78 --> 3934.12] that in -[3934.12 --> 3934.80] the evening -[3934.80 --> 3936.58] quail came -[3936.58 --> 3937.14] and covered -[3937.14 --> 3937.60] the camp -[3937.60 --> 3938.30] and in the -[3938.30 --> 3938.84] morning there -[3938.84 --> 3939.28] was a layer -[3939.28 --> 3939.82] of dew -[3939.82 --> 3940.66] around the -[3940.66 --> 3940.98] camp and -[3940.98 --> 3941.24] when the -[3941.24 --> 3941.68] dew was -[3941.68 --> 3942.28] gone thin -[3942.28 --> 3942.86] flakes of -[3942.86 --> 3943.38] frost on -[3943.38 --> 3943.76] the ground -[3943.76 --> 3944.86] appeared on -[3944.86 --> 3945.22] the desert -[3945.22 --> 3946.36] floor when -[3946.36 --> 3946.78] the Israelites -[3946.78 --> 3948.18] saw it they -[3948.18 --> 3948.76] said to each -[3948.76 --> 3949.64] other what -[3949.64 --> 3950.00] is it -[3950.00 --> 3951.82] in verse 31 -[3951.82 --> 3952.56] of this -[3952.56 --> 3953.32] chapter which -[3953.32 --> 3953.66] we didn't -[3953.66 --> 3954.52] read we're -[3954.52 --> 3955.14] told that the -[3955.14 --> 3956.02] people called -[3956.02 --> 3956.58] the bread -[3956.58 --> 3957.44] manna -[3957.44 --> 3959.10] it's a word -[3959.10 --> 3960.02] play in the -[3960.02 --> 3960.90] Hebrew based -[3960.90 --> 3961.72] on the question -[3961.72 --> 3962.74] what is it -[3962.74 --> 3963.72] right they -[3963.72 --> 3964.92] literally called -[3964.92 --> 3965.72] this thing -[3965.72 --> 3966.48] what's it -[3966.48 --> 3968.18] and that's -[3968.18 --> 3968.40] what they -[3968.40 --> 3968.64] ate -[3968.64 --> 3970.04] now it -[3970.04 --> 3970.66] tastes like -[3970.66 --> 3971.80] wafers made -[3971.80 --> 3972.18] of honey -[3972.18 --> 3973.88] I picture in -[3973.88 --> 3974.46] my own head -[3974.46 --> 3974.80] and you can -[3974.80 --> 3975.14] do what you -[3975.14 --> 3975.50] want here -[3975.50 --> 3976.46] but kind -[3976.46 --> 3977.16] of large -[3977.16 --> 3978.00] cornflake -[3978.00 --> 3979.26] shaped things -[3979.26 --> 3979.88] that they -[3979.88 --> 3980.32] just gathered -[3980.32 --> 3980.96] buckets full -[3980.96 --> 3981.96] of and that's -[3981.96 --> 3982.22] what they -[3982.22 --> 3982.38] ate -[3982.38 --> 3984.24] but this -[3984.24 --> 3984.66] is an -[3984.66 --> 3985.78] example of -[3985.78 --> 3986.38] God's -[3986.38 --> 3987.16] continued -[3987.16 --> 3988.56] provision for -[3988.56 --> 3989.20] his people -[3989.20 --> 3991.16] in spite of -[3991.16 --> 3991.88] their grumbling -[3991.88 --> 3993.12] and complaining -[3993.12 --> 3994.62] and this -[3994.62 --> 3995.52] intent -[3995.52 --> 3997.32] functions as -[3997.32 --> 3998.06] a test -[3998.06 --> 3998.86] for the -[3998.86 --> 3999.16] people -[3999.16 --> 4000.04] and it's a -[4000.04 --> 4000.62] point that is -[4000.62 --> 4001.18] actually made -[4001.18 --> 4002.04] explicit in -[4002.04 --> 4003.14] in verse 4 -[4003.14 --> 4004.36] the Lord -[4004.36 --> 4004.78] said to -[4004.78 --> 4005.72] Moses I -[4005.72 --> 4006.14] will rain -[4006.14 --> 4006.60] down bread -[4006.60 --> 4006.96] from heaven -[4006.96 --> 4007.30] for you -[4007.30 --> 4007.68] the people -[4007.68 --> 4008.16] are to go -[4008.16 --> 4008.64] out each -[4008.64 --> 4009.06] day to -[4009.06 --> 4009.82] gather enough -[4009.82 --> 4010.20] for that -[4010.20 --> 4010.68] day and -[4010.68 --> 4011.06] then God -[4011.06 --> 4012.08] says in -[4012.08 --> 4012.96] this way -[4012.96 --> 4013.88] I will -[4013.88 --> 4014.84] test -[4014.84 --> 4015.76] them -[4015.76 --> 4017.90] now part -[4017.90 --> 4018.28] of this -[4018.28 --> 4018.98] test right -[4018.98 --> 4019.42] is for the -[4019.42 --> 4019.84] people to -[4019.84 --> 4020.54] gather only -[4020.54 --> 4021.00] what they -[4021.00 --> 4021.64] need for -[4021.64 --> 4022.56] that day -[4022.56 --> 4023.00] with a -[4023.00 --> 4023.74] double portion -[4023.74 --> 4024.82] being available -[4024.82 --> 4025.54] to them on -[4025.54 --> 4026.28] the day prior -[4026.28 --> 4027.20] to Sabbath -[4027.20 --> 4027.86] the day on -[4027.86 --> 4028.34] which God -[4028.34 --> 4029.46] rests and -[4029.46 --> 4030.22] the test is -[4030.22 --> 4031.02] to show -[4031.02 --> 4031.82] that God -[4031.82 --> 4032.18] can be -[4032.18 --> 4032.66] trusted -[4032.66 --> 4033.64] every day -[4033.64 --> 4035.54] now -[4035.54 --> 4036.96] I want you -[4036.96 --> 4037.34] to be sure -[4037.34 --> 4037.92] about this -[4037.92 --> 4039.56] whenever we -[4039.56 --> 4040.12] talk about -[4040.12 --> 4040.46] or whenever -[4040.46 --> 4040.98] the Bible -[4040.98 --> 4041.92] talks about -[4041.92 --> 4042.82] God -[4042.82 --> 4043.64] testing -[4043.64 --> 4044.60] the people -[4044.60 --> 4046.26] you need -[4046.26 --> 4046.78] to be sure -[4046.78 --> 4047.40] and see -[4047.40 --> 4048.08] that that -[4048.08 --> 4049.44] test is -[4049.44 --> 4050.36] not used -[4050.36 --> 4051.48] like your -[4051.48 --> 4052.42] teachers might -[4052.42 --> 4052.88] have used -[4052.88 --> 4053.34] that word -[4053.34 --> 4054.10] right one -[4054.10 --> 4054.74] person said -[4054.74 --> 4055.92] God is not -[4055.92 --> 4056.56] a professor -[4056.56 --> 4057.30] looking to -[4057.30 --> 4057.98] fail his -[4057.98 --> 4058.52] people at -[4058.52 --> 4058.84] the first -[4058.84 --> 4059.42] wrong answer -[4059.42 --> 4060.96] right tests -[4060.96 --> 4061.68] in the Old -[4061.68 --> 4062.72] Testament are -[4062.72 --> 4063.64] not trials -[4063.64 --> 4064.04] that the -[4064.04 --> 4064.70] people face -[4064.70 --> 4065.38] in order to -[4065.38 --> 4066.48] prove their -[4066.48 --> 4067.60] worthiness of -[4067.60 --> 4068.60] God or or -[4068.60 --> 4069.24] to God -[4069.24 --> 4070.02] right God -[4070.02 --> 4070.56] does not -[4070.56 --> 4071.34] act toward -[4071.34 --> 4072.26] his people -[4072.26 --> 4073.26] because they've -[4073.26 --> 4074.06] earned his -[4074.06 --> 4075.22] grace or his -[4075.22 --> 4075.78] favor because -[4075.78 --> 4076.42] they passed -[4076.42 --> 4077.00] the test -[4077.00 --> 4077.64] right the -[4077.64 --> 4078.26] reality about -[4078.26 --> 4079.24] tests in the -[4079.24 --> 4079.98] Bible is that -[4079.98 --> 4080.38] they're not -[4080.38 --> 4080.98] for God -[4080.98 --> 4084.48] right because -[4084.48 --> 4085.06] God is God -[4085.06 --> 4085.60] he already -[4085.60 --> 4086.16] knows your -[4086.16 --> 4087.36] heart and -[4087.36 --> 4087.92] all of it -[4087.92 --> 4088.24] there is -[4088.24 --> 4088.72] nothing hidden -[4088.72 --> 4089.28] from him -[4089.28 --> 4089.86] there's no -[4089.86 --> 4090.64] secret that -[4090.64 --> 4091.14] you keep in -[4091.14 --> 4091.56] the corner of -[4091.56 --> 4091.88] your mind -[4091.88 --> 4092.28] that God -[4092.28 --> 4092.96] does not -[4092.96 --> 4093.22] know -[4093.22 --> 4093.84] instead -[4093.84 --> 4095.66] tests in -[4095.66 --> 4096.22] the Bible -[4096.22 --> 4097.76] are from -[4097.76 --> 4098.32] God -[4098.32 --> 4099.30] for -[4099.30 --> 4100.28] you -[4100.28 --> 4102.60] right Moses -[4102.60 --> 4103.36] sums this -[4103.36 --> 4104.04] up actually -[4104.04 --> 4105.66] why tests -[4105.66 --> 4106.22] come to the -[4106.22 --> 4106.68] people in -[4106.68 --> 4107.44] chapter 20 -[4107.44 --> 4108.86] verse 20 -[4108.86 --> 4110.52] Moses said -[4110.52 --> 4111.10] to the people -[4111.10 --> 4112.04] do not be -[4112.04 --> 4113.44] afraid God -[4113.44 --> 4114.18] has come to -[4114.18 --> 4115.30] test you so -[4115.30 --> 4115.98] that the fear -[4115.98 --> 4116.84] of God will -[4116.84 --> 4117.68] be with you to -[4117.68 --> 4118.94] keep you from -[4118.94 --> 4119.38] sinning -[4119.38 --> 4120.68] right God -[4120.68 --> 4121.72] tests his -[4121.72 --> 4122.78] people for -[4122.78 --> 4123.70] their benefit -[4123.70 --> 4124.64] not for his -[4124.64 --> 4124.88] own -[4124.88 --> 4127.58] right this -[4127.58 --> 4128.56] is true in -[4128.56 --> 4129.08] the case of -[4129.08 --> 4129.76] Abram and -[4129.76 --> 4130.34] Isaac this -[4130.34 --> 4130.92] is true in -[4130.92 --> 4131.56] the case of -[4131.56 --> 4132.88] Job as he -[4132.88 --> 4134.06] goes through -[4134.06 --> 4134.88] his entire -[4134.88 --> 4135.54] life with -[4135.54 --> 4136.16] three friends -[4136.16 --> 4136.76] around him -[4136.76 --> 4137.58] this is true -[4137.58 --> 4138.28] of the people -[4138.28 --> 4139.24] in the desert -[4139.24 --> 4140.56] right working -[4140.56 --> 4141.90] through these -[4141.90 --> 4143.44] tests will -[4143.44 --> 4144.68] reveal God's -[4144.68 --> 4146.02] character to -[4146.02 --> 4146.82] the people so -[4146.82 --> 4147.60] that they can -[4147.60 --> 4148.18] learn so that -[4148.18 --> 4148.92] we can learn -[4148.92 --> 4149.82] what obedience -[4149.82 --> 4150.86] to him looks -[4150.86 --> 4151.46] like and what -[4151.46 --> 4152.04] that feels -[4152.04 --> 4153.50] like in a -[4153.50 --> 4154.66] way these -[4154.66 --> 4156.10] tests are -[4156.10 --> 4157.84] themselves a -[4157.84 --> 4159.28] revelation of -[4159.28 --> 4164.78] God this -[4164.78 --> 4166.36] actually is -[4166.36 --> 4167.50] the the thrust -[4167.50 --> 4169.00] behind Hebrews -[4169.00 --> 4170.56] 12 which -[4170.56 --> 4172.80] says endure -[4172.80 --> 4174.52] hardship as -[4174.52 --> 4176.44] discipline God -[4176.44 --> 4177.18] is treating you -[4177.18 --> 4178.58] as his children -[4178.58 --> 4179.74] no discipline -[4179.74 --> 4180.62] seems pleasant -[4180.62 --> 4181.40] at the time -[4181.40 --> 4182.04] but painful -[4182.04 --> 4183.40] later on however -[4183.40 --> 4184.48] it produces a -[4184.48 --> 4185.12] harvest of -[4185.12 --> 4186.30] righteousness and -[4186.30 --> 4187.56] peace for those -[4187.56 --> 4188.34] who have been -[4188.34 --> 4189.98] trained by it -[4189.98 --> 4192.34] right in testing -[4192.34 --> 4194.48] God is teaching -[4194.48 --> 4196.40] right in testing -[4196.40 --> 4197.92] God is producing -[4197.92 --> 4199.00] a harvest of -[4199.00 --> 4200.30] righteousness and -[4200.30 --> 4202.04] peace in you -[4202.04 --> 4203.08] and through you -[4203.08 --> 4204.00] right the test -[4204.00 --> 4205.04] here is not -[4205.04 --> 4205.74] only about -[4205.74 --> 4206.80] keeping sabbath -[4206.80 --> 4207.60] or trusting -[4207.60 --> 4208.70] God's provision -[4208.70 --> 4210.22] it's on a -[4210.22 --> 4210.86] deeper level -[4210.86 --> 4212.04] about recognizing -[4212.04 --> 4212.76] the action -[4212.76 --> 4213.76] and the place -[4213.76 --> 4214.92] of God -[4214.92 --> 4216.22] in this world -[4216.22 --> 4217.32] and in your -[4217.32 --> 4217.72] life -[4217.72 --> 4220.40] so throughout -[4220.40 --> 4221.82] Israel's experience -[4221.82 --> 4222.96] and then into -[4222.96 --> 4224.10] the New Testament -[4224.10 --> 4226.02] the desert -[4226.02 --> 4227.26] the wilderness -[4227.26 --> 4229.42] is a place -[4229.42 --> 4230.70] of provision -[4230.70 --> 4232.44] and sometimes -[4232.44 --> 4233.02] of punishment -[4233.02 --> 4235.36] and it seems -[4235.36 --> 4236.98] clear that -[4236.98 --> 4238.44] life for -[4238.44 --> 4239.14] all people -[4239.14 --> 4240.54] in some way -[4240.54 --> 4242.08] is a wandering -[4242.08 --> 4243.46] through the -[4243.46 --> 4243.80] wilderness -[4243.80 --> 4246.66] and so often -[4246.66 --> 4248.26] like the -[4248.26 --> 4248.68] Israelites -[4248.68 --> 4250.32] our default -[4250.32 --> 4251.30] response is -[4251.30 --> 4251.74] grumbling -[4251.74 --> 4253.30] or complaining -[4253.30 --> 4255.64] and so the -[4255.64 --> 4256.62] question becomes -[4256.62 --> 4257.80] for us -[4257.80 --> 4260.28] is has -[4260.28 --> 4261.48] one come -[4261.48 --> 4262.00] who has -[4262.00 --> 4262.96] experienced -[4262.96 --> 4263.68] the wilderness -[4263.68 --> 4265.22] without grumbling -[4265.22 --> 4267.32] has one -[4267.32 --> 4268.14] come who has -[4268.14 --> 4269.10] provided a way -[4269.10 --> 4269.84] out of the -[4269.84 --> 4270.52] wilderness of -[4270.52 --> 4271.56] sin and death -[4271.56 --> 4272.26] and temptation -[4272.26 --> 4273.32] has one come -[4273.32 --> 4274.56] who is himself -[4274.56 --> 4275.94] the bread of -[4275.94 --> 4276.40] life -[4276.40 --> 4279.94] immediately -[4279.94 --> 4281.42] after the -[4281.42 --> 4282.06] baptism of -[4282.06 --> 4282.38] Jesus -[4282.38 --> 4283.56] in Matthew -[4283.56 --> 4283.92] 3 -[4283.92 --> 4285.40] we read the -[4285.40 --> 4285.74] following -[4285.74 --> 4288.12] then Jesus -[4288.12 --> 4288.90] was led by -[4288.90 --> 4289.38] the spirit -[4289.38 --> 4290.00] into the -[4290.00 --> 4290.26] desert -[4290.26 --> 4290.68] to be -[4290.68 --> 4291.08] tempted -[4291.08 --> 4292.28] by the -[4292.28 --> 4292.56] devil -[4292.56 --> 4294.10] now that -[4294.10 --> 4294.46] word -[4294.46 --> 4295.10] translated -[4295.10 --> 4295.98] by our -[4295.98 --> 4296.58] New Testament -[4296.58 --> 4297.88] editors -[4297.88 --> 4298.96] as translated -[4298.96 --> 4299.72] can also -[4299.72 --> 4300.30] mean -[4300.30 --> 4301.38] tested -[4301.38 --> 4303.96] the -[4303.96 --> 4304.48] Israelites -[4304.48 --> 4305.96] who went -[4305.96 --> 4306.52] into the -[4306.52 --> 4306.78] desert -[4306.78 --> 4307.44] for a total -[4307.44 --> 4307.92] of 40 -[4307.92 --> 4308.46] years -[4308.46 --> 4309.48] were tested -[4309.48 --> 4310.10] in order -[4310.10 --> 4310.84] to reveal -[4310.84 --> 4311.60] God -[4311.60 --> 4311.98] and in -[4311.98 --> 4312.66] their test -[4312.66 --> 4313.32] they grumbled -[4313.32 --> 4314.34] and complained -[4314.34 --> 4315.30] and turned -[4315.30 --> 4315.82] around -[4315.82 --> 4316.66] to test -[4316.66 --> 4317.38] God -[4317.38 --> 4318.12] Jesus -[4318.12 --> 4319.02] who wandered -[4319.02 --> 4319.74] into that -[4319.74 --> 4320.04] desert -[4320.04 --> 4320.74] for 40 -[4320.74 --> 4321.36] days -[4321.36 --> 4321.88] and 40 -[4321.88 --> 4322.18] nights -[4322.18 --> 4322.64] a number -[4322.64 --> 4323.06] that is -[4323.06 --> 4323.42] surely -[4323.42 --> 4324.06] significant -[4324.06 --> 4325.02] for Matthew's -[4325.02 --> 4325.40] theological -[4325.40 --> 4325.88] purposes -[4325.88 --> 4326.46] he connects -[4326.46 --> 4326.88] Jesus -[4326.88 --> 4327.98] to Israel -[4327.98 --> 4328.64] Jesus -[4328.64 --> 4329.58] was hungry -[4329.58 --> 4330.44] and needed -[4330.44 --> 4330.92] to eat -[4330.92 --> 4332.12] and three -[4332.12 --> 4332.70] times -[4332.70 --> 4332.96] the -[4332.96 --> 4334.10] tempter -[4334.10 --> 4334.84] comes to -[4334.84 --> 4335.10] him -[4335.10 --> 4335.96] and challenges -[4335.96 --> 4336.66] him as -[4336.66 --> 4337.32] the son -[4337.32 --> 4337.66] of God -[4337.66 --> 4337.94] and says -[4337.94 --> 4338.60] if you are -[4338.60 --> 4338.94] the son -[4338.94 --> 4339.28] of God -[4339.28 --> 4339.84] tell these -[4339.84 --> 4340.26] stones -[4340.26 --> 4340.82] to become -[4340.82 --> 4341.54] bread -[4341.54 --> 4342.06] if you are -[4342.06 --> 4342.36] the son -[4342.36 --> 4342.68] of God -[4342.68 --> 4343.46] throw yourself -[4343.46 --> 4344.00] down from -[4344.00 --> 4344.20] here -[4344.20 --> 4344.94] taking him -[4344.94 --> 4345.74] to a high -[4345.74 --> 4346.10] point -[4346.10 --> 4346.68] on the land -[4346.68 --> 4347.36] the tempter -[4347.36 --> 4347.66] says -[4347.66 --> 4348.28] if you -[4348.28 --> 4348.78] but bow -[4348.78 --> 4349.10] down -[4349.10 --> 4349.64] and worship -[4349.64 --> 4349.88] me -[4349.88 --> 4350.46] I will -[4350.46 --> 4350.96] give you -[4350.96 --> 4351.62] all -[4351.62 --> 4352.68] of this -[4352.68 --> 4353.10] that you -[4353.10 --> 4353.38] see -[4353.38 --> 4354.56] and each -[4354.56 --> 4355.04] time -[4355.04 --> 4355.46] Jesus -[4355.46 --> 4356.12] responds -[4356.12 --> 4356.48] to the -[4356.48 --> 4356.80] test -[4356.80 --> 4357.40] with a -[4357.40 --> 4357.80] word -[4357.80 --> 4358.40] from -[4358.40 --> 4359.08] the Lord -[4359.08 --> 4359.38] he says -[4359.38 --> 4359.86] man does -[4359.86 --> 4360.42] not live -[4360.42 --> 4361.06] on bread -[4361.06 --> 4361.40] alone -[4361.40 --> 4361.70] but on -[4361.70 --> 4362.22] every word -[4362.22 --> 4362.72] that comes -[4362.72 --> 4363.06] from the -[4363.06 --> 4363.28] mouth -[4363.28 --> 4363.78] of God -[4363.78 --> 4364.32] Jesus -[4364.32 --> 4364.62] says -[4364.62 --> 4364.92] do not -[4364.92 --> 4365.30] put the -[4365.30 --> 4365.54] Lord -[4365.54 --> 4366.04] your God -[4366.04 --> 4366.36] to the -[4366.36 --> 4366.76] test -[4366.76 --> 4367.34] away -[4367.34 --> 4367.90] from me -[4367.90 --> 4368.18] Satan -[4368.18 --> 4368.58] for it -[4368.58 --> 4368.96] is written -[4368.96 --> 4369.78] worship -[4369.78 --> 4370.42] the Lord -[4370.42 --> 4371.04] your God -[4371.04 --> 4371.76] and serve -[4371.76 --> 4372.56] him -[4372.56 --> 4373.56] only -[4373.56 --> 4374.32] Jesus -[4374.32 --> 4375.02] comes -[4375.02 --> 4375.62] and does -[4375.62 --> 4376.44] precisely -[4376.44 --> 4377.74] what Israel -[4377.74 --> 4379.04] failed to do -[4379.04 --> 4380.14] Jesus comes -[4380.14 --> 4380.58] and does -[4380.58 --> 4381.16] precisely -[4381.16 --> 4381.78] what you -[4381.78 --> 4382.40] and I -[4382.40 --> 4383.14] day in -[4383.14 --> 4383.88] and day out -[4383.88 --> 4385.04] fail to do -[4385.04 --> 4385.82] this is the -[4385.82 --> 4386.36] substance -[4386.36 --> 4387.58] of the gospel -[4387.58 --> 4388.76] spoken already -[4388.76 --> 4389.34] to us -[4389.34 --> 4390.12] in Exodus -[4390.12 --> 4390.62] right that -[4390.62 --> 4391.42] though we are -[4391.42 --> 4392.20] more sinful -[4392.20 --> 4392.78] than we could -[4392.78 --> 4393.94] ever dare -[4393.94 --> 4394.60] admit -[4394.60 --> 4395.92] we are still -[4395.92 --> 4396.52] yet more -[4396.52 --> 4397.30] loved than -[4397.30 --> 4397.88] we could ever -[4397.88 --> 4398.62] imagine -[4398.62 --> 4399.40] possible -[4399.40 --> 4400.14] and out of -[4400.14 --> 4400.64] that love -[4400.64 --> 4401.50] Jesus comes -[4401.50 --> 4402.24] and lives -[4402.24 --> 4402.72] the life -[4402.72 --> 4403.12] I should -[4403.12 --> 4403.50] have lived -[4403.50 --> 4404.32] and died -[4404.32 --> 4405.18] the death -[4405.18 --> 4405.88] that I -[4405.88 --> 4406.54] deserve -[4406.54 --> 4407.04] out of -[4407.04 --> 4407.66] that love -[4407.66 --> 4408.10] Jesus -[4408.10 --> 4409.00] exhibited -[4409.00 --> 4409.98] the faith -[4409.98 --> 4410.64] that we -[4410.64 --> 4411.08] lack -[4411.08 --> 4411.44] and he -[4411.44 --> 4411.96] died -[4411.96 --> 4412.62] death -[4412.62 --> 4413.48] in our -[4413.48 --> 4413.92] place -[4413.92 --> 4414.74] and so -[4414.74 --> 4415.62] now -[4415.62 --> 4416.24] our -[4416.24 --> 4417.06] grumbling -[4417.06 --> 4418.12] is turned -[4418.12 --> 4418.88] to joy -[4418.88 --> 4420.20] our worry -[4420.20 --> 4420.94] is turned -[4420.94 --> 4421.98] to worship -[4421.98 --> 4423.08] all because -[4423.08 --> 4424.00] of what -[4424.00 --> 4424.48] he -[4424.48 --> 4425.56] has -[4425.56 --> 4426.40] done -[4426.40 --> 4430.70] Israel's -[4430.70 --> 4431.00] sin -[4431.00 --> 4432.54] in the -[4432.54 --> 4432.84] desert -[4432.84 --> 4433.16] her -[4433.16 --> 4433.62] her -[4433.62 --> 4434.14] testing -[4434.14 --> 4435.04] in the -[4435.04 --> 4435.26] desert -[4435.26 --> 4436.06] and throughout -[4436.06 --> 4437.08] her history -[4437.08 --> 4437.76] is the -[4437.76 --> 4438.20] sin -[4438.20 --> 4438.96] that is -[4438.96 --> 4439.46] common -[4439.46 --> 4440.38] to us -[4440.38 --> 4440.66] all -[4440.66 --> 4441.08] it is -[4441.08 --> 4441.76] the sin -[4441.76 --> 4442.30] of -[4442.30 --> 4442.82] self -[4442.82 --> 4444.14] centeredness -[4444.14 --> 4445.20] right -[4445.20 --> 4446.24] a conceit -[4446.24 --> 4447.10] that says -[4447.10 --> 4448.22] our view -[4448.22 --> 4449.04] of the world -[4449.04 --> 4449.62] is the -[4449.62 --> 4450.52] only view -[4450.52 --> 4451.26] that matters -[4451.26 --> 4452.24] our judgment -[4452.24 --> 4452.90] is the -[4452.90 --> 4454.04] only right -[4454.04 --> 4454.68] judgment -[4454.68 --> 4455.92] our assessment -[4455.92 --> 4456.80] of reality -[4456.80 --> 4457.46] is the -[4457.46 --> 4457.84] only -[4457.84 --> 4458.60] true -[4458.60 --> 4459.46] reality -[4459.46 --> 4460.48] other people -[4460.48 --> 4460.84] and maybe -[4460.84 --> 4461.42] God himself -[4461.42 --> 4462.24] even be damned -[4462.24 --> 4463.88] this is -[4463.88 --> 4464.26] self -[4464.26 --> 4465.42] centeredness -[4465.42 --> 4467.24] and in -[4467.24 --> 4467.72] Christ -[4467.72 --> 4468.76] God's -[4468.76 --> 4469.18] gracious -[4469.18 --> 4469.72] provision -[4469.72 --> 4470.56] is revealed -[4470.56 --> 4471.02] as the -[4471.02 --> 4471.68] fulfillment -[4471.68 --> 4472.50] in his -[4472.50 --> 4472.90] provision -[4472.90 --> 4473.50] of manna -[4473.50 --> 4473.88] right -[4473.88 --> 4474.84] once bread -[4474.84 --> 4475.74] fell from -[4475.74 --> 4476.32] heaven -[4476.32 --> 4476.92] and then -[4476.92 --> 4477.36] the one -[4477.36 --> 4477.76] who is -[4477.76 --> 4478.14] called -[4478.14 --> 4478.74] the bread -[4478.74 --> 4479.28] of life -[4479.28 --> 4479.78] came -[4479.78 --> 4480.56] from heaven -[4480.56 --> 4480.96] so that -[4480.96 --> 4481.90] we might -[4481.90 --> 4482.46] be -[4482.46 --> 4483.22] ushered -[4483.22 --> 4483.66] into -[4483.66 --> 4484.64] God's -[4484.64 --> 4485.40] presence -[4485.40 --> 4487.20] by grace -[4487.20 --> 4487.62] through -[4487.62 --> 4488.14] faith -[4488.14 --> 4488.78] we are -[4488.78 --> 4489.20] united -[4489.20 --> 4489.50] to -[4489.50 --> 4489.78] Jesus -[4489.78 --> 4490.00] who -[4490.00 --> 4490.26] did -[4490.26 --> 4490.72] what -[4490.72 --> 4491.08] Israel -[4491.08 --> 4491.36] could -[4491.36 --> 4491.62] never -[4491.62 --> 4491.94] do -[4491.94 --> 4492.28] and -[4492.28 --> 4492.42] what -[4492.42 --> 4492.58] we -[4492.58 --> 4492.78] can -[4492.78 --> 4492.98] never -[4492.98 --> 4493.18] do -[4493.18 --> 4493.88] by grace -[4493.88 --> 4494.14] through -[4494.14 --> 4494.54] faith -[4494.54 --> 4495.10] we -[4495.10 --> 4495.36] are -[4495.36 --> 4495.60] now -[4495.60 --> 4496.06] invited -[4496.06 --> 4496.32] to -[4496.32 --> 4496.54] a -[4496.54 --> 4496.80] life -[4496.80 --> 4497.04] of -[4497.04 --> 4497.68] worshipful -[4497.68 --> 4498.38] trust -[4498.38 --> 4498.84] and -[4498.84 --> 4499.78] rejoicing -[4499.78 --> 4501.00] we sang -[4501.00 --> 4501.46] it earlier -[4501.46 --> 4501.84] in our -[4501.84 --> 4502.18] service -[4502.18 --> 4502.36] right -[4502.36 --> 4502.88] because -[4502.88 --> 4503.58] Christ -[4503.58 --> 4504.06] is -[4504.06 --> 4504.42] my -[4504.42 --> 4504.90] savior -[4504.90 --> 4505.60] I -[4505.60 --> 4505.90] can -[4505.90 --> 4506.18] know -[4506.18 --> 4506.40] that -[4506.40 --> 4506.72] he -[4506.72 --> 4507.20] watches -[4507.20 --> 4507.60] over -[4507.60 --> 4507.90] me -[4507.90 --> 4508.12] in -[4508.12 --> 4508.44] such -[4508.44 --> 4508.60] a -[4508.60 --> 4508.76] way -[4508.76 --> 4508.94] that -[4508.94 --> 4509.08] not -[4509.08 --> 4509.24] a -[4509.24 --> 4509.46] hair -[4509.46 --> 4509.68] can -[4509.68 --> 4509.94] fall -[4509.94 --> 4510.18] from -[4510.18 --> 4510.38] my -[4510.38 --> 4510.64] head -[4510.64 --> 4511.18] without -[4511.18 --> 4511.64] the will -[4511.64 --> 4512.02] of my -[4512.02 --> 4512.30] father -[4512.30 --> 4512.50] in -[4512.50 --> 4512.62] heaven -[4512.62 --> 4512.96] in -[4512.96 --> 4513.26] fact -[4513.26 --> 4513.86] all -[4513.86 --> 4514.32] things -[4514.32 --> 4514.62] must -[4514.62 --> 4514.90] work -[4514.90 --> 4515.32] together -[4515.32 --> 4515.60] for -[4515.60 --> 4515.88] my -[4515.88 --> 4516.46] salvation -[4516.46 --> 4517.24] because -[4517.24 --> 4517.70] I -[4517.70 --> 4518.18] belong -[4518.18 --> 4518.44] to -[4518.44 --> 4518.90] him -[4518.90 --> 4519.68] Christ -[4519.68 --> 4520.30] by his -[4520.30 --> 4520.58] holy -[4520.58 --> 4520.98] spirit -[4520.98 --> 4521.74] assures -[4521.74 --> 4522.08] me -[4522.08 --> 4522.38] of -[4522.38 --> 4522.84] eternal -[4522.84 --> 4523.22] life -[4523.22 --> 4523.50] and -[4523.50 --> 4523.78] makes -[4523.78 --> 4524.04] me -[4524.04 --> 4524.92] wholeheartedly -[4524.92 --> 4525.32] willing -[4525.32 --> 4526.24] and ready -[4526.24 --> 4527.10] from now -[4527.10 --> 4527.60] on -[4527.60 --> 4528.56] to -[4528.56 --> 4528.94] live -[4528.94 --> 4528.96] to live -[4528.96 --> 4529.96] for -[4529.96 --> 4530.18] him -[4530.18 --> 4533.42] instead -[4533.42 --> 4533.62] of -[4533.62 --> 4534.06] grumbling -[4534.06 --> 4535.14] we -[4535.14 --> 4535.38] are -[4535.38 --> 4535.72] being -[4535.72 --> 4536.40] trained -[4536.40 --> 4536.74] in -[4536.74 --> 4536.88] the -[4536.88 --> 4537.12] very -[4537.12 --> 4537.88] righteousness -[4537.88 --> 4538.90] of -[4538.90 --> 4539.32] Jesus -[4539.32 --> 4540.14] to -[4540.14 --> 4540.50] rid -[4540.50 --> 4540.88] from -[4540.88 --> 4541.32] our -[4541.32 --> 4542.08] minds -[4542.08 --> 4542.90] perceived -[4542.90 --> 4543.66] needs -[4543.66 --> 4543.94] and -[4543.94 --> 4544.56] selfish -[4544.56 --> 4545.38] immediate -[4545.38 --> 4546.40] gratification -[4546.40 --> 4548.12] the -[4548.12 --> 4548.48] testing -[4548.48 --> 4548.70] is -[4548.70 --> 4549.06] hard -[4549.06 --> 4551.66] the -[4551.66 --> 4551.94] vision -[4551.94 --> 4552.22] of the -[4552.22 --> 4552.56] kingdom -[4552.56 --> 4553.54] spurs -[4553.54 --> 4554.04] us -[4554.04 --> 4555.08] forward -[4555.08 --> 4555.90] right -[4555.90 --> 4556.34] Christ -[4556.34 --> 4557.06] alone -[4557.06 --> 4557.74] is our -[4557.74 --> 4558.10] bread -[4558.10 --> 4558.64] and -[4558.64 --> 4558.94] water -[4558.94 --> 4559.24] he -[4559.24 --> 4559.68] is -[4559.68 --> 4559.94] our -[4559.94 --> 4560.56] true -[4560.56 --> 4561.20] need -[4561.20 --> 4561.44] and -[4561.44 --> 4561.96] only -[4561.96 --> 4562.44] he -[4562.44 --> 4562.80] can -[4562.80 --> 4563.44] truly -[4563.44 --> 4564.32] fill -[4564.32 --> 4565.14] you -[4565.14 --> 4566.06] up -[4566.06 --> 4567.16] he -[4567.16 --> 4567.74] is -[4567.74 --> 4567.96] who -[4567.96 --> 4568.24] we -[4568.24 --> 4568.66] must -[4568.66 --> 4569.54] remember -[4569.54 --> 4570.78] and so -[4570.78 --> 4571.16] with this -[4571.16 --> 4571.72] vision -[4571.72 --> 4572.30] then of -[4572.30 --> 4573.20] Christ -[4573.20 --> 4573.72] and his -[4573.72 --> 4574.06] kingdom -[4574.06 --> 4574.44] come -[4574.44 --> 4574.80] and his -[4574.80 --> 4575.10] kingdom -[4575.10 --> 4575.50] coming -[4575.50 --> 4576.18] fully -[4576.18 --> 4576.54] before -[4576.54 --> 4577.00] your -[4577.00 --> 4577.60] eyes -[4577.60 --> 4578.04] and your -[4578.04 --> 4578.82] imagination -[4578.82 --> 4579.42] with this -[4579.42 --> 4579.74] vision -[4579.74 --> 4580.26] of Christ -[4580.26 --> 4580.84] firmly -[4580.84 --> 4581.56] before -[4581.56 --> 4582.04] us -[4582.04 --> 4582.28] with -[4582.28 --> 4583.14] all -[4583.14 --> 4583.40] our -[4583.40 --> 4583.76] hearts -[4583.76 --> 4584.22] needs -[4584.22 --> 4584.66] met -[4584.66 --> 4585.18] in -[4585.18 --> 4585.50] him -[4585.50 --> 4586.20] we -[4586.20 --> 4586.80] now -[4586.80 --> 4587.38] live -[4587.38 --> 4587.70] a -[4587.70 --> 4588.10] life -[4588.10 --> 4588.40] that -[4588.40 --> 4588.86] judges -[4588.86 --> 4589.26] our -[4589.26 --> 4590.06] circumstances -[4590.06 --> 4590.80] not -[4590.80 --> 4591.34] by the -[4591.34 --> 4591.80] standards -[4591.80 --> 4592.44] of -[4592.44 --> 4592.94] success -[4592.94 --> 4593.26] and -[4593.26 --> 4593.78] achievement -[4593.78 --> 4594.34] from -[4594.34 --> 4594.50] the -[4594.50 --> 4594.78] world -[4594.78 --> 4595.28] around -[4595.28 --> 4595.62] us -[4595.62 --> 4596.12] a -[4596.12 --> 4596.78] world -[4596.78 --> 4596.98] that -[4596.98 --> 4597.16] in -[4597.16 --> 4597.48] so -[4597.48 --> 4597.70] many -[4597.70 --> 4598.14] ways -[4598.14 --> 4598.38] is -[4598.38 --> 4599.46] antithetical -[4599.46 --> 4599.88] to -[4599.88 --> 4600.02] the -[4600.02 --> 4600.38] cross -[4600.38 --> 4600.58] but -[4600.58 --> 4601.06] we -[4601.06 --> 4601.56] see -[4601.56 --> 4602.06] our -[4602.06 --> 4602.64] present -[4602.64 --> 4603.56] circumstances -[4603.56 --> 4604.16] be -[4604.16 --> 4604.34] them -[4604.34 --> 4604.56] of -[4604.56 --> 4605.02] plenty -[4605.02 --> 4605.42] or -[4605.42 --> 4605.66] of -[4605.66 --> 4605.96] want -[4605.96 --> 4606.18] be -[4606.18 --> 4606.34] them -[4606.34 --> 4606.54] of -[4606.54 --> 4606.84] birth -[4606.84 --> 4607.14] or -[4607.14 --> 4607.38] of -[4607.38 --> 4607.68] death -[4607.68 --> 4608.14] we -[4608.14 --> 4608.46] see -[4608.46 --> 4608.72] them -[4608.72 --> 4609.12] as -[4609.12 --> 4609.90] God -[4609.90 --> 4610.74] wants -[4610.74 --> 4611.18] us -[4611.18 --> 4611.54] to -[4611.54 --> 4611.78] see -[4611.78 --> 4611.98] them -[4611.98 --> 4613.34] he -[4613.34 --> 4613.64] is -[4613.64 --> 4614.02] teaching -[4614.02 --> 4614.48] us -[4614.48 --> 4614.98] to look -[4614.98 --> 4615.46] back -[4615.46 --> 4616.28] in order -[4616.28 --> 4616.76] that we -[4616.76 --> 4617.08] might -[4617.08 --> 4617.42] go -[4617.42 --> 4618.26] forward -[4618.26 --> 4618.64] to -[4618.64 --> 4619.04] look -[4619.04 --> 4620.00] to -[4620.00 --> 4621.10] Christ -[4621.10 --> 4623.02] and -[4623.02 --> 4623.12] in -[4623.12 --> 4623.26] looking -[4623.26 --> 4623.42] to -[4623.42 --> 4623.82] Christ -[4623.82 --> 4625.00] we -[4625.00 --> 4625.34] find -[4625.34 --> 4625.54] the -[4625.54 --> 4625.86] attitude -[4625.86 --> 4626.28] of -[4626.28 --> 4626.54] the -[4626.54 --> 4626.90] apostle -[4626.90 --> 4627.26] Paul -[4627.26 --> 4628.28] who -[4628.28 --> 4628.56] says -[4628.56 --> 4628.74] in -[4628.74 --> 4629.22] Philippians -[4629.22 --> 4629.52] 4 -[4629.52 --> 4646.88] is -[4646.88 --> 4647.12] I -[4647.12 --> 4647.36] can -[4647.36 --> 4647.58] do -[4647.58 --> 4648.02] all -[4648.02 --> 4648.40] this -[4648.40 --> 4648.78] through -[4648.78 --> 4649.32] him -[4649.32 --> 4649.96] who -[4649.96 --> 4650.82] strengthens -[4650.82 --> 4651.50] me -[4651.50 --> 4666.62] is your heart is your life content right now have you learned contentment that's jesus -[4666.62 --> 4674.50] right in in a world of of selfish grumbling and complaining of so many people imagine what a -[4674.50 --> 4682.72] community of contentment would look like because that's supposed to be us that's supposed to be -[4682.72 --> 4693.56] christians in the world but we are just as divided as the rest of the world maybe even more so we grumble -[4693.56 --> 4703.14] just as much as everyone else maybe even more so don't let fear co-opt our gathered worship and -[4703.14 --> 4709.34] discipleship opportunities in this life and don't let a wrong understanding of freedom be your cause -[4709.34 --> 4712.36] for complaining instead -[4712.36 --> 4723.44] instead what does it look like for us together now as a community to trust in the lord and to learn -[4723.44 --> 4729.14] contentedness right that's the vision question that i want to leave with you as you go this week -[4729.14 --> 4735.36] that's what you need to prayerfully reflect on in the coming days right given everything that's going -[4735.36 --> 4740.64] on from the cost of living which is skyrocketing to housing getting further and further out of reach -[4740.64 --> 4747.52] to political polarization to incessant demonization of those who think differently than you to the fact -[4747.52 --> 4753.08] that russia has promised nuclear retaliation against nations who support ukraine -[4753.08 --> 4758.02] you can grumble and complain -[4758.02 --> 4761.08] but i for one -[4761.08 --> 4763.42] will choose contentedness -[4763.42 --> 4766.66] and i believe that together -[4766.66 --> 4769.36] and this day and every day after -[4769.36 --> 4771.32] that we can choose -[4771.32 --> 4773.04] to serve the lord -[4773.04 --> 4774.84] and that -[4774.84 --> 4778.20] my friends that my brothers and sisters that -[4778.20 --> 4780.66] my church family -[4780.66 --> 4782.98] that -[4782.98 --> 4784.96] will change the world -[4784.96 --> 4787.62] will you change the world with me -[4787.62 --> 4789.44] let's pray -[4789.44 --> 4796.54] lord our god teach us -[4796.54 --> 4798.44] contentedness -[4798.44 --> 4800.48] teach us to -[4800.48 --> 4801.78] look to you -[4801.78 --> 4804.90] as the source of -[4804.90 --> 4806.38] every good -[4806.38 --> 4807.32] gift -[4807.32 --> 4809.64] and teach us to -[4809.64 --> 4810.34] trust -[4810.34 --> 4812.08] in your word -[4812.08 --> 4816.78] when we don't receive those things that we thought we needed or those things that we -[4816.78 --> 4818.76] cried out for in want -[4818.76 --> 4821.22] help us to trust that you -[4821.22 --> 4822.26] are -[4822.26 --> 4823.32] god -[4823.32 --> 4826.94] and that it is -[4826.94 --> 4833.38] true when you say that no good thing do you withhold from those whose walk is blameless -[4833.38 --> 4836.14] and that we have been given -[4836.14 --> 4842.86] righteousness that comes not from the law but that comes from faith in christ jesus that we -[4842.86 --> 4850.58] in him are blameless and so our path forward with you is only good -[4850.58 --> 4853.82] we know it will be -[4853.82 --> 4854.14] we know it will be hard -[4854.14 --> 4860.06] we know it will be -[4860.06 --> 4861.26] impossible -[4861.26 --> 4868.48] may we also know that with you all things are -[4868.48 --> 4869.36] possible -[4869.36 --> 4872.08] and that you alone -[4872.08 --> 4875.32] will carry us through and may we be content -[4875.32 --> 4878.56] in that truth today -[4878.56 --> 4881.90] in christ jesus we pray -[4881.90 --> 4883.70] amen -[4883.70 --> 4895.10] please join us in standing -[4895.10 --> 4910.10] by faith we see the hand of god -[4910.10 --> 4917.10] in the light of creation's grand design -[4917.10 --> 4926.10] in the lives of those who prove his faithfulness -[4926.10 --> 4931.10] brought by faith and not by sight -[4931.10 --> 4933.26] now we bear -[4933.26 --> 4933.46] but again -[4933.46 --> 4935.70] we lose -[4935.70 --> 4936.28] thank you -[4938.20 --> 4938.66] soon -[4944.54 --> 4948.54] and we -[4948.54 --> 4950.90] we -[4950.90 --> 4951.56] name -[4951.56 --> 4953.42] 보실 -[4953.42 --> 4954.48] so -[4954.48 --> 4955.54] there -[4955.54 --> 4956.98] track -[4956.98 --> 4966.06] We will stand as children of the promise -[4966.06 --> 4970.36] We will fix our eyes on him -[4970.36 --> 4973.14] Our souls reward -[4973.14 --> 4976.76] Till the race is finished -[4976.76 --> 4981.08] And the work is done -[4981.08 --> 4986.96] We'll walk by faith and not by sight -[4986.96 --> 4996.34] By faith the prophets saw a day -[4996.34 --> 5003.04] When the love of Messiah would appear -[5003.04 --> 5011.04] With the power to break the chains of sin and death -[5011.04 --> 5017.42] And rise triumphant from the grave -[5017.42 --> 5022.80] By faith the church was called to go -[5022.80 --> 5030.80] In the power of the Spirit to the Lord -[5030.80 --> 5038.18] To deliver captives and to preach good news -[5038.18 --> 5044.12] In every corner of the earth -[5044.12 --> 5050.18] We will stand as children of the promise -[5050.18 --> 5055.56] We will fix our eyes on him -[5055.56 --> 5057.56] Our souls reward -[5057.56 --> 5061.56] Till the race is finished -[5061.56 --> 5065.56] And the work is done -[5065.56 --> 5071.56] We'll walk by faith and not by sight -[5071.56 --> 5080.94] By faith the mountains shall be moved -[5080.94 --> 5087.94] And the power of the gospel shall prevail -[5087.94 --> 5096.32] For we know in Christ all things are possible -[5096.32 --> 5102.32] For all who call upon his name -[5102.32 --> 5108.70] We will stand as children of the promise -[5108.70 --> 5113.70] We will fix our eyes on him -[5113.70 --> 5115.70] Our souls reward -[5115.70 --> 5119.70] Till the race is finished -[5119.70 --> 5123.70] And the work is done -[5123.70 --> 5130.70] We'll walk by faith and not by sight -[5130.70 --> 5136.08] We will stand as children of the promise -[5136.08 --> 5141.08] We will fix our eyes on him -[5141.08 --> 5144.08] Our souls reward -[5144.08 --> 5147.08] Till the race is finished -[5147.08 --> 5148.02] Finished -[5148.02 --> 5148.04] Finished -[5148.04 --> 5152.38] And the work is done -[5152.38 --> 5157.08] We'll walk by faith and not by sight -[5157.08 --> 5158.08] We will walk by faith and not by sight -[5158.08 --> 5176.62] One of my favorite songs -[5176.62 --> 5178.36] In our worship portfolio -[5178.36 --> 5179.98] And favorite lines -[5179.98 --> 5183.16] Is the power of the gospel shall prevail -[5183.16 --> 5186.38] That's the promise of God -[5186.38 --> 5188.10] The truth of history -[5188.10 --> 5191.00] That we go into this week -[5191.00 --> 5194.00] And that fuels our being content -[5194.00 --> 5195.34] Whatever the circumstances -[5195.34 --> 5198.38] Because the power of the gospel -[5198.38 --> 5199.70] Will prevail -[5199.70 --> 5203.84] God goes with us in his blessing -[5203.84 --> 5206.58] And so go with God -[5206.58 --> 5209.52] God go before you -[5209.52 --> 5211.14] To prepare a way for you -[5211.14 --> 5213.06] God go behind you -[5213.06 --> 5214.16] To protect you -[5214.16 --> 5215.48] God go beneath you -[5215.48 --> 5216.52] To support you -[5216.52 --> 5218.28] And God go beside you -[5218.28 --> 5219.38] To befriend you -[5219.38 --> 5221.50] Do not be afraid -[5221.50 --> 5223.32] Let the blessing of God -[5223.32 --> 5224.24] Come upon you today -[5224.24 --> 5225.92] Do not be afraid -[5225.92 --> 5228.08] But go in peace -[5228.08 --> 5231.28] To love and serve the Lord -[5231.28 --> 5233.00] Amen -[5233.00 --> 5250.86] If the light of your love is shining -[5250.86 --> 5255.76] In the midst of the darkness shining -[5255.76 --> 5258.70] Jesus light of the world -[5258.70 --> 5260.64] The world shine upon us -[5260.64 --> 5264.26] Set us free by the truth -[5264.26 --> 5265.86] You now bring us -[5265.86 --> 5269.04] Shine on me -[5269.04 --> 5273.64] Shine on me -[5273.64 --> 5274.64] Shine on me -[5274.64 --> 5278.88] Shine Jesus shine -[5278.88 --> 5284.70] Fill this land with the Father's glory -[5284.70 --> 5288.72] His spirit place -[5288.72 --> 5294.70] Set our hearts on fire -[5294.70 --> 5298.72] Flow rivers flow -[5298.72 --> 5301.94] Wild the nations -[5301.94 --> 5305.16] With grace and mercy -[5305.16 --> 5308.70] Come forth your word -[5308.70 --> 5311.70] Lord and love -[5311.70 --> 5322.70] Lord I come to your awesome presence -[5322.70 --> 5324.64] From the shadows -[5324.64 --> 5327.60] Into your radiance -[5327.60 --> 5332.46] By the blood I may enter your brightness -[5332.46 --> 5333.92] Search me -[5333.92 --> 5337.50] Try to consume all my darkness -[5337.50 --> 5339.50] Shine on me -[5339.50 --> 5340.50] Shine on me -[5340.50 --> 5341.50] Shine on me -[5341.50 --> 5342.50] Shine on me -[5342.50 --> 5344.50] Shine on me -[5344.50 --> 5345.50] Shine on me -[5345.50 --> 5349.50] Shine Jesus shine -[5349.50 --> 5355.50] Fill this land with the Father's glory -[5355.50 --> 5357.50] Praise the Spirit place -[5357.50 --> 5359.50] Set our hearts on fire -[5359.50 --> 5361.50] Set our hearts on fire -[5361.50 --> 5363.50] Set our hearts on fire -[5363.50 --> 5365.50] Set our hearts on fire -[5365.50 --> 5367.50] Full river flow -[5367.50 --> 5369.50] Full river flow -[5369.50 --> 5372.50] Let the nations -[5372.50 --> 5375.50] With grace and mercy -[5375.50 --> 5377.50] Turn forth your word -[5377.50 --> 5380.50] Lord and let there be love -[5380.50 --> 5382.50] Lord and let there be love -[5382.50 --> 5384.50] Lord and let there be love -[5384.50 --> 5393.50] As we gaze on your kingly brightness -[5393.50 --> 5398.50] So our faces display your likeness -[5398.50 --> 5400.50] Ever changing -[5400.50 --> 5401.50] Ever changing -[5401.50 --> 5402.50] From glory to glory -[5402.50 --> 5403.50] Ever changing -[5403.50 --> 5404.50] From glory to glory -[5404.50 --> 5405.50] Hear or hear -[5405.50 --> 5408.50] May our lives tell your story -[5408.50 --> 5411.50] Shine on me -[5411.50 --> 5413.50] Shine on me -[5413.50 --> 5415.50] Shine on me -[5415.50 --> 5416.50] Shine on me -[5416.50 --> 5417.50] Shine Jesus shine -[5417.50 --> 5419.50] Shine Jesus shine -[5419.50 --> 5429.50] Fill this land with the Father's glory -[5429.50 --> 5433.50] May our lives tell your hearts on fire -[5433.50 --> 5446.60] Lord and let that of天 -[5463.50 --> 5493.48] Thank you. -[5493.50 --> 5523.48] Thank you. -[5523.50 --> 5553.48] Thank you. -[5553.50 --> 5583.48] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - February 5, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - February 5, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index caac4ae04518dd296767f28c8045aacf8773c8e8..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - February 5, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,166 +0,0 @@ -• Faithfulness and trust in a higher power or father figure -• Death and mortality, with uncertainty about the future -• The nature of God's faithfulness and love -• Perfection and goodness in God's ways -• Love and connection to God, with feelings of peace and security -• Unintelligible phrases at the end -• The Emanuel church will be hosting the Reactivate reformed youth conference in September -• The event will feature over 200 youth from BC, Alberta, and Washington -• Volunteers are needed to help with the weekend -• Youth coffee is scheduled after church today at the Alchemist house -• Worship services will continue as normal -• The pastor, Chris, led a call to worship using Psalm 5 verses 11-12 -• Worshiping God as the "everlasting Lord" and "the truth" -• Jesus Christ's sacrifice on the cross -• Redemption through Jesus' death and resurrection -• Singing praises to God's holy name -• The victory of Jesus over sin and death -• Assurance of salvation through confession and prayer -• The speaker expresses regret and frustration over humanity's sinful nature, leading God to hide His face in anger. -• The speaker asks for forgiveness and cleansing of their hearts, which are divided. -• The speaker requests a revival and restoration of the church that bears God's name. -• The speaker quotes a hymn, "He Will Hold Me Fast", expressing trust in Christ's love and promise to hold them fast even when faith falters. -• A deacon introduces two offerings: one for the budget and another for friendship ministries partnered with the CRC. -• Scriptures from Proverbs 31 are read, emphasizing God's ability and willingness to provide and defend the rights of all people. -• The speaker emphasizes God's greatness and ability, referencing Psalm-like phrases. -• Recitation of "Our God is able" song -• Introduction to Kids Corner segment -• Explanation of what a care group is -• Hank's care group experience and meeting attendees -• Introducing Horace the horse as leader of a care group -• Introductions of various animal friends at a care group -• Discussion about the personalities and characteristics of each animal -• Mention of Hank's humorous comments about vegans -• Explanation that animals in the group are learning together as part of God's family -• Discussion about Jesus' disciples and how they learned from him as a group -• Plans to discuss what it means to be a part of a group and learn together as God's family -• Transition to prayer time and children's worship -• Job descriptions for part-time staff were reviewed and updated. -• A communications administrator position is open and applications are being accepted. -• Report from elders on special services, including Christmas, New Year's, Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, and Thanksgiving Day. -• Worship ministries team has spent a year reviewing reform history and tradition to guide discussion and conclusions on how to observe special services. -• The uniqueness of Christianity, specifically the historical events of Jesus' life and death -• Observing holidays like Christmas, Ash Wednesday, Ascension Day, Good Friday, Thanksgiving, and New Year's in a more meaningful way through worship services -• Making small changes to gather as a church family on significant occasions -• Embracing redemption by living into it comprehensively -• Decisions made by the elders regarding worship service schedules and other matters -• Upcoming conference or event -• Classes scheduled for March 7th and 8th -• Volunteer opportunity led by Dolores -• Communion and Lord's Supper ceremony planned for next week -• Prayer service and worship at Emmanuel Church -• Various ministries and opportunities mentioned -• The church's needs for effective ministry -• God's gifts of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers to equip the people for works of service -• Requesting God's blessing on those mourning losses, including a young man named Matthew and others in the community -• Lifting up those dealing with illness and pain -• Confessing humanity's failure to remember that the earth is God's and asking for healing and change in the world, particularly regarding conflicts like the war in Ukraine -• Prayer for church leaders, staff, and council members to trust in God -• Praying for traveling mercies for Jackie and Robin attending the worship symposium -• Gratitude for participating in the Lord's Supper and preparing hearts, families, and relationships -• Requesting God to speak through Pastor Chris' message about Paul's letter to the Romans -• The speaker shares a personal anecdote about learning to frame houses from their uncle -• The importance of proper technique and tools in framing -• A specific situation where the speaker struggled to hammer nails into place due to using the wrong method -• Introduction of a tool called a palm nailer, which simplifies the process and takes much less time -• Connection made between the experience with the palm nailer and the concept of "good enough" vs. proper completion -• Judgment and hypocrisy -• God's judgment based on truth -• The futility of human judgment when self-righteous -• The role of kindness, forbearance, and patience in leading to repentance -• The consequences of stubbornness and unrepentant hearts -• The day of God's wrath and righteous judgment -• Reward or punishment according to one's actions -• The distinction between doing good and evil, and its reward or punishment -• People are sometimes accused and other times defended by God -• On judgment day, people will be judged on their secrets through Jesus Christ -• The concept of "good enough" is discussed, where it's questioned whether this attitude is sufficient for Christian living -• Paul begins a new chapter in the Romans text, stating that no one has an excuse to judge others when they themselves are guilty -• Everyone has suppressed God's truth and exchanged it for idolatry, leading to sin in various forms -• The concept of being a good person without needing to believe in God -• Paul's day and modern interpretations of doing good deeds for reward -• Religious vs secular morality and the idea that faith is assumed to be necessary for moral behavior -• A study on young people's views on faith and morality, specifically the "post-Christian" demographic -• The term "Ogre" is used to describe a Universal Gnostic Religious Ethic, but it's also referred to as simply "Universal". -• This universal ethic is based on the idea that behind all religions and societal structures lies a shared truth about how people should interact with each other. -• The current generation of twenty-somethings has discovered this universal ethic to be true, and it's a new way of seeing and being in the world. -• The universal ethic is often expressed through spirituality and magic, which can be more inclusive than traditional historical institutional religion. -• Ultimately, the universal ethic aims for absolute social tolerance and good behavior. -• The purpose of society is to do good and be good -• Equating actions with identity leads to intolerance -• Affirming one's own values can deny others' identities -• This is considered the "unforgivable sin" of the modern world -• Romans 2:7 suggests a deeper meaning behind doing good in the world -• The concept of doing good in order to receive a reward -• The biblical covenant of works, which frames how we understand God's relationship with humanity before the fall -• The idea that humans were given commands to obey and work out their relationship with God -• How humanity rebelled against this relational frame, leading to God entering into a new relational frame with his people, known as the covenant of grace. -• The covenant of works is a concept where good behavior earns reward and worthiness -• This idea has its roots in the original covenant between God and humanity, which emphasized obedience and perfection -• Modern society has adapted this concept into a "bastardized" form, focusing on effort rather than absolute perfection -• The implication is that by being good or making an effort, one deserves good things and blessings from God -• Scriptural references to God's absolute moral perfection are mentioned, including 1 John 1:5 and Leviticus/1 Peter. -• Jesus' teaching on perfection in Matthew 5 -• Changing the Bible's standard of perfection to "do your best" -• Neutering the covenant of works -• Suppressing truth and exchanging it for substitutes -• The influence of culture and social media on spirituality -• Paul's warning about a time when people will gather around false teachers who say what they want to hear -• Itching ears want to hear what they already think -• Paul's response to Timothy is crucial due to an impending reality -• The book of Romans is essential for understanding this reality -• Preaching, correcting, and encouraging must be done with patience and instruction -• Sound doctrine is necessary to combat false teaching -• God sees everything and repays each person according to their actions -• Persistence in doing good leads to eternal life -• True believers will seek glory, honor, and immortality through obedience -• Consistency and perfection are key to doing good works -• Jesus' teachings emphasize being perfect like God -• The concept of "covenant of works" is discussed -• Self-seeking, rejecting truth, and following evil lead to wrath and trouble -• Half measures or "good enough" is not acceptable; perfection is required -• Paul's letter emphasizes the importance of living up to one's own standards -• Roman citizenship, moral character, and knowledge of the law do not excuse sin -• Trouble and distress will come for those who do evil -• The law and gospel are not enough for salvation -• Philippians 3 emphasizes that none of these things matter -• Paul's past status as a Pharisee and Roman citizen is irrelevant -• The phrase "first to the Jew, then to the Gentile" has two meanings: order and inclusion -• Inclusion means the gospel was always intended for the rest of the world, not just the Jews -• The word "Gentile" in Greek means non-Jew or people who have adopted a different culture -• The gospel's message cuts both ways: it is for Gentiles and would be offensive to some Jews. -• Jewish Christians as a target of Paul's message -• Identification with sinful humanity by excluding themselves from pagans -• Target broadens to include religious people in general, including the speaker and listener -• Troubles for those who know the law will be worse -• No excuse for doing the same thing, sinning apart from or under the law -• The insufficiency of trying to be good and moral -• The failure of human effort under the covenant of works -• The need for repentance and a change of heart -• The sufficiency of God's kindness and grace through Jesus Christ -• Human depravity and total inability to achieve righteousness on our own -• The need for the grace of God and its significance in everyday life -• The relationship between receiving God's grace and having understanding and humility -• Being known as Christians who embody gentleness, respect, and humility in all aspects of life -• The importance of sound doctrine to combat false teachings and transform lives -• Being transformed into the image of Jesus through studying God's word -• Importance of regular Bible study, devotions, and adult education classes -• Need to immerse oneself in the gospel and its transforming power -• Drawing near to Jesus Christ through immersing oneself in the gospel -• Prayer for open eyes and understanding of the gospel truth -• Singing and worship -• The beauty of the gospel -• Jesus Christ as truth and redemption -• Living in praise of God -• The mystery of Christ's life, death, and resurrection -• Redemption through Christ's sacrifice -• The hope of deliverance and eternal life -• Resurrection and future glory -• Invitation to gather with others and share life, story, and prayer -• Offer to pray for individuals who are interested -• Information about the Christianity Explored class and inviting neighbors/friends to join -• Contact information for the speaker at the Connect booth after service -• Blessings and prayers from the speaker, repeated multiple times -• Repeated instances of the word "Amen" -• No other conversation or discussion mentioned -• End of transcript reaches various points with repeated use of "Amen" \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - February 5, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - February 5, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index eb85caeda3499b89a57484a18c28b77b145d7a20..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - February 5, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3388 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 17.62] What the future holds, still I know I can trust your faithfulness. -[17.62 --> 39.62] Certain as the rivers reach the sea, certain as the sun rises in the east, I can rest in your faithfulness. -[39.62 --> 63.54] Sure than a mother's tender love, sure than the stars still shine above, I can rest in your faithfulness. -[63.54 --> 75.86] I don't know how or when I'll die. -[75.86 --> 81.86] Will it be a leap? -[83.86 --> 90.86] Will I have a chance to say goodbye? -[90.86 --> 102.86] No, I don't know how much time is left for me. -[102.86 --> 114.86] But in the end, I will know your faithfulness. -[114.86 --> 138.34] When darkness overwhelms my soul, when thoughts are storms of doubt, still I trust you are always faithful. -[138.34 --> 146.34] Always faithful. -[146.34 --> 169.34] Certain as the rivers reach the sea, certain as the sun rises in the east, I can rest in your faithfulness. -[169.34 --> 185.34] Sure than a mother's tender love, sure than the stars still shine above, I can rest. -[185.34 --> 195.34] In your faithfulness, we can rest. -[195.34 --> 197.34] In your faithfulness, we can rest. -[197.34 --> 202.34] In your faithfulness, we can rest. -[202.34 --> 208.34] True service, we can rest. -[212.34 --> 213.34] Thing and human sound. -[213.34 --> 214.34] The음 worm -[214.34 --> 218.34] Oh, I've heard a thousand stories -[218.34 --> 230.90] stories of what they think you're like but i've heard the tender whisper of love -[231.86 --> 242.10] the dead of night and you tell me that you're pleased and that i'm never alone -[242.10 --> 257.54] you're a good good father it's who you are it's who you are it's who you are and i'm loved by you -[257.54 --> 264.74] it's who i am it's who i am it's who i am -[264.74 --> 285.70] oh and i've seen many searching for answers far and wide but i know we're all searching for answers -[285.70 --> 299.70] only you provide cause you know just what we need before we say a word you're a good good father -[299.70 --> 309.70] it's who you are it's who you are it's who you are and i'm loved by you -[309.70 --> 317.70] it's who i am it's who i am it's who i am -[317.70 --> 323.70] because you are perfect in all of your ways -[323.70 --> 327.70] you are perfect in all of your ways -[327.70 --> 341.70] you are perfect in all of your ways -[341.70 --> 345.70] oh you're perfect in all of your ways -[345.70 --> 351.70] you are perfect in all of your ways -[351.70 --> 353.70] optimism -[353.70 --> 357.70] turns to us -[357.70 --> 359.70] oh it's love -[359.70 --> 361.70] so undeniable -[361.70 --> 364.10] i -[364.10 --> 367.70] i can hardly speak -[367.70 --> 369.70] peace -[369.70 --> 371.70] so -[371.70 --> 373.70] unexplainable -[373.70 --> 375.70] i -[375.70 --> 377.70] i can hardly -[377.70 --> 379.70] think -[379.70 --> 392.66] me deeper still as you call me deeper still as you call me deeper still -[392.66 --> 399.38] into love love love you're a good good father -[399.38 --> 406.34] it's who you are it's who you are it's who you are -[406.34 --> 411.14] it's who i am -[411.14 --> 414.02] it's who i am -[414.02 --> 416.02] it's who i am -[416.02 --> 419.22] you're a good good father -[419.22 --> 422.02] it's who you are -[422.02 --> 424.02] it's who you are -[424.02 --> 426.02] it's who you are -[426.02 --> 429.14] and i'm in love by you -[429.14 --> 432.02] it's who i am -[432.02 --> 434.02] it's who i am -[434.02 --> 436.02] it's who i am -[436.02 --> 438.82] you're a good good father -[438.82 --> 440.82] it's who you are -[440.82 --> 443.70] it's who you are -[443.70 --> 445.70] it's who you are -[445.70 --> 448.50] and i'm in love by you -[448.50 --> 450.50] it's who i am -[450.50 --> 452.50] it's who i am -[452.50 --> 454.50] it's who i am -[454.50 --> 455.38] it's who i am -[455.38 --> 456.50] oh -[456.50 --> 461.38] you are perfect in all of your ways -[461.38 --> 467.38] it's who i am -[467.38 --> 471.06] you are perfect in all of your ways -[471.06 --> 473.38] it's who i am -[473.38 --> 475.38] it's who i am -[475.38 --> 479.38] it's who i am -[479.38 --> 483.38] it's who i am -[483.38 --> 489.38] it's who i am -[489.38 --> 497.86] i am -[498.74 --> 500.58] it's who i am -[500.58 --> 501.62] it's what somebody PUAT -[501.62 --> 502.98] will see you -[502.98 --> 503.76] get quite black -[503.76 --> 506.02] they balloon bi -[506.02 --> 506.82] bought pickles -[506.82 --> 507.90] bought GiFF -[507.90 --> 508.80] even like -[508.80 --> 509.54] they did -[509.54 --> 511.14] make a book -[511.14 --> 511.46] sell -[511.46 --> 511.78] if -[511.78 --> 512.18] any -[512.18 --> 513.06] to -[513.06 --> 515.18] i can love -[515.18 --> 517.76] buy -[517.76 --> 547.74] Thank you. -[547.76 --> 577.74] Thank you. -[577.76 --> 579.76] Thank you. -[579.76 --> 581.76] Thank you. -[581.76 --> 583.76] Thank you. -[583.76 --> 585.76] Thank you. -[613.76 --> 615.76] Thank you. -[643.76 --> 645.76] Thank you. -[645.76 --> 646.76] Thank you. -[646.76 --> 648.76] Thank you. -[648.76 --> 649.76] Thank you. -[649.76 --> 651.76] Thank you. -[651.76 --> 652.76] Thank you. -[652.76 --> 653.76] Thank you. -[653.76 --> 654.76] Thank you. -[654.76 --> 656.76] Thank you. -[656.76 --> 658.76] Thank you. -[658.76 --> 659.76] Thank you. -[659.76 --> 665.36] also walk your own route if that doesn't work for you. If you'd like to join the team, you can -[665.36 --> 671.20] look in the midweek memo or the bulletin. The easiest way, because it's all online, is to do -[671.20 --> 675.86] that because then you can just click the links that are provided and it will take you to our team -[675.86 --> 682.30] page where you can join the team and create your own like profile, I guess, in there and then you -[682.30 --> 689.68] can share that link to raise money for your team as part of the bigger Emanuel team. And then you -[689.68 --> 695.14] can also use the link in the bulletin if you are not interested or able to participate in the walk -[695.14 --> 701.06] but you'd like to support Emanuel's team. The link to donate is also in the bulletin. And if anyone -[701.06 --> 707.38] has questions about it, you can grab me after church or ask one of my kids. They also know a lot about it. -[707.38 --> 717.78] Thanks. Good morning, everyone. My name is Kevin. I'm the youth pastor here. Ten years ago, a group of -[717.78 --> 724.66] seven of us youth pastors got together and after much conversation and then work, we put on a youth -[724.66 --> 730.40] conference for, it's a reformed youth conference for youth across really BC but into Alberta and -[730.40 --> 735.12] Washington as well called Reactivate. I'm sure you've heard of it. I'm sure you've seen videos -[735.12 --> 740.16] of it if you've been here a long time. That was hosted by Gateway CRC for a number of years until -[740.16 --> 746.54] their youth pastor resigned. And the group of seven dwindled to a group of four. That group of four then -[746.54 --> 751.82] decided to move the conference to Willoughby CRC where it's been for the last number of years. -[751.82 --> 756.62] Since then, the youth pastor at Willoughby has resigned but he's remained on this Reactivate -[756.62 --> 762.22] leadership team. Why am I telling you all of this? Well, because this year Reactivate, the reformed -[762.22 --> 768.54] youth conference, is going to be coming here. So Emanuel is going to be hosting this youth conference -[768.54 --> 775.66] come September. You'll hear a little bit of accounts from council later. We have worked, I have talked to -[775.66 --> 780.46] the school next door. We're going to be using their gym a little bit. But come September, there is going -[780.46 --> 786.54] to be 200 plus youth from across BC coming down into our church which I am pretty darn excited about -[786.54 --> 790.62] to be honest with you. I think it's going to be a wonderful weekend. It'll be the weekend after Labor Day. -[790.62 --> 796.06] You will be hearing an obnoxious amount of this as the months and the weeks roll on. So just I'm -[796.06 --> 801.02] preparing your hearts for those. I'm also preparing your hearts and brains a little bit because as we -[801.02 --> 805.58] get closer to that date, I'm going to be asking for some volunteers to help with that weekend. So -[806.06 --> 811.26] just be ready because in September there's going to be a very fun conference happening here with the -[811.26 --> 816.62] youth from across BC. A second announcement, youth, there's youth coffee after church today too. So come -[816.62 --> 819.18] hang out at the Alchemist house. It's going to be fun. We'll see you there. -[824.14 --> 831.58] And lastly, good morning from me. My name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors here and it's my privilege to -[831.58 --> 837.58] lead us in our worship together this morning. I'm going to ask as you're able, would you stand? -[838.14 --> 845.02] We can be called into God's presence, gathered up in his name and receive his greeting. -[845.02 --> 855.34] Receive the greeting of our God. Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord -[855.34 --> 861.82] Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. All God's -[861.82 --> 867.58] people said, amen. I'm going to invite you to turn to those around you and greet them in the name of -[867.58 --> 872.54] Jesus. A handshake or a fist bump or a hug or a head nod if you're not into touching this morning. -[872.54 --> 879.74] Greetings. -[879.74 --> 880.94] You start. -[888.94 --> 891.02] I didn't wash my hands after touching his hand. -[891.02 --> 906.94] I didn't wash my hands after touching his hand. I didn't wash my hands after touching his hand. -[906.94 --> 911.58] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 5 verses 11 and 12. -[911.58 --> 921.10] But let all who take refuge in you be glad. Let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over -[921.10 --> 928.54] them that those who love your name may rejoice in you. For surely, O Lord, you bless the righteous. -[929.26 --> 932.54] You surround them with your favor as with a shield. -[932.54 --> 958.54] Let us come before the Father -[958.54 --> 960.14] Father -[960.14 --> 961.18] Father -[961.18 --> 964.46] with our hearts open wide -[964.46 --> 969.26] Let us come in true submission -[969.26 --> 974.94] In the faith he will provide -[974.94 --> 980.14] Let us come toward the Savior -[980.14 --> 986.06] He has his arms stretched open wide -[986.06 --> 989.98] He died at Calvary -[989.98 --> 991.98] Just to save you -[991.98 --> 996.78] Because he loves you as his child -[996.78 --> 1003.98] He is the everlasting Lord -[1003.98 --> 1009.42] He is the truth, the great I am -[1009.42 --> 1013.98] The Lord Jehovah, creator of the earth -[1013.98 --> 1017.90] Come let us bow before him -[1017.90 --> 1026.06] Come with boldness to your Father -[1026.06 --> 1031.90] He has called you as his child -[1031.90 --> 1035.90] Join us with Christ -[1035.90 --> 1039.02] O righteous saints -[1039.02 --> 1042.94] He has made you holy in his sight -[1042.94 --> 1049.02] He is the everlasting Lord -[1049.02 --> 1054.94] He is the truth, the great I am -[1054.94 --> 1058.94] The Lord Jehovah, creator of the earth -[1058.94 --> 1062.94] Come let us bow before him now -[1062.94 --> 1066.86] Come let us bow before him now -[1066.86 --> 1068.86] He is the everlasting Lord -[1068.86 --> 1070.86] He is the everlasting Lord -[1070.86 --> 1072.86] He is the everlasting Lord -[1072.86 --> 1074.86] He is the truth, the great I am -[1074.86 --> 1076.86] The Lord Jehovah, creator of the earth -[1076.86 --> 1081.74] The Lord Jehovah, creator of the earth -[1081.74 --> 1086.78] Come let us bow before him now -[1086.78 --> 1092.78] Come let us bow before him now -[1092.78 --> 1098.70] Come let us bow before him now -[1098.70 --> 1102.62] See him now -[1102.62 --> 1116.54] See him there -[1116.54 --> 1130.46] The great I am -[1130.46 --> 1132.46] The great I am -[1132.46 --> 1137.58] A crown of thorns -[1137.58 --> 1140.46] Upon his head -[1140.46 --> 1144.38] The Father's heart -[1144.38 --> 1148.38] Displayed for us -[1148.38 --> 1150.38] Oh God -[1150.38 --> 1151.38] Oh God -[1151.38 --> 1156.38] We thank you for the cross -[1156.38 --> 1162.38] Lifted up -[1162.38 --> 1166.38] On Calvary's hill -[1166.38 --> 1170.30] We cursed your name -[1170.30 --> 1172.30] And even still -[1172.30 --> 1176.30] You bore our shame -[1176.30 --> 1180.30] And paid the cost -[1180.30 --> 1182.30] Oh God -[1182.30 --> 1188.30] We thank you for the cross -[1188.30 --> 1196.22] Behold the Lamb -[1196.22 --> 1199.90] The story of redemption -[1199.90 --> 1204.28] Written on his hands -[1204.28 --> 1209.28] Jesus, you will reign forevermore -[1209.28 --> 1213.22] The victory is yours -[1213.22 --> 1217.14] Offer up -[1217.14 --> 1219.14] This sacrifice -[1219.14 --> 1221.14] We sing your praise -[1221.14 --> 1223.14] Endless hallelujahs -[1223.14 --> 1225.14] To your holy name -[1225.14 --> 1229.14] Jesus, you will reign forevermore -[1229.14 --> 1235.14] The victory is yours -[1235.14 --> 1241.14] Offer up -[1241.14 --> 1245.06] This sacrifice -[1245.06 --> 1249.06] For every sin -[1249.06 --> 1252.06] Our Savior died -[1252.06 --> 1256.06] The Lord of life -[1256.06 --> 1259.06] Can't be contained -[1259.06 --> 1262.06] Our God -[1262.06 --> 1266.06] Has risen from the grave -[1266.06 --> 1268.98] O our God -[1268.98 --> 1269.78] O our God -[1269.78 --> 1272.98] Has risen from the grave -[1272.98 --> 1277.94] Behold the Lamb -[1277.94 --> 1280.92] The story of redemption -[1280.92 --> 1285.14] Written on his hands -[1285.14 --> 1289.90] Jesus, you will reign forevermore -[1289.90 --> 1293.98] The victory is yours -[1293.98 --> 1298.90] We sing your praise -[1298.90 --> 1301.90] Endless hallelujahs -[1301.90 --> 1304.90] To your holy name -[1304.90 --> 1308.90] Jesus, you will reign forevermore -[1308.90 --> 1314.90] The victory is yours -[1314.90 --> 1319.82] When the age -[1319.82 --> 1321.88] When the age -[1321.88 --> 1322.82] Of death -[1322.82 --> 1323.36] Of death -[1323.36 --> 1324.82] Is dawn -[1324.82 --> 1327.82] We'll see your face -[1327.82 --> 1331.82] Bright as the sun -[1331.82 --> 1334.82] We'll bow before -[1334.82 --> 1339.82] The King of kings -[1339.82 --> 1342.74] O God -[1342.74 --> 1343.74] O God -[1343.74 --> 1344.74] Forever -[1344.74 --> 1345.74] We will sing -[1345.74 --> 1346.74] O God -[1346.74 --> 1347.74] Forever -[1347.74 --> 1348.74] We will sing -[1348.74 --> 1354.74] Behold the Lamb -[1354.74 --> 1357.66] The story of redemption -[1357.66 --> 1358.46] The story of redemption -[1358.46 --> 1362.72] Written on his hands -[1362.72 --> 1367.72] Jesus, you will reign forevermore -[1367.72 --> 1371.66] The victory is yours -[1371.66 --> 1376.58] You will reign forevermore -[1376.58 --> 1381.50] The victory is yours -[1381.50 --> 1391.38] The victory is yours -[1391.38 --> 1394.42] You will reign forevermore -[1394.42 --> 1398.22] The victory is yours -[1398.22 --> 1400.44] You reign forevermore -[1400.44 --> 1403.22] The victory is yours -[1403.22 --> 1406.00] Glory is yours. -[1413.22 --> 1415.58] Because Jesus has given us the victory, -[1416.00 --> 1419.42] we know that we can come to him in a time of confession -[1419.42 --> 1424.98] and lay our hearts and our weaknesses and our sins before him. -[1425.94 --> 1428.18] Let's take a few minutes in silent prayer. -[1433.22 --> 1435.22] Amen. -[1456.58 --> 1459.82] Our assurance comes from Isaiah 57. -[1459.82 --> 1464.94] For this is what the high and exalted one says, -[1465.66 --> 1468.70] he who lives forever, whose name is holy. -[1469.50 --> 1472.24] I live in a high and holy place, -[1472.50 --> 1476.56] but also with the one who is contrite and lowly in spirit, -[1477.20 --> 1479.34] to revive the spirit of the lowly -[1479.34 --> 1482.30] and to revive the heart of the contrite. -[1482.30 --> 1487.94] I will not accuse them forever, nor will I always be angry, -[1488.52 --> 1491.46] for then they would faint away because of me, -[1492.02 --> 1493.88] the very people I have created. -[1494.78 --> 1498.24] I was enraged by their sinful greed. -[1498.86 --> 1501.98] I punished them and hid my face in anger. -[1502.68 --> 1505.60] Yet they kept on in their willful ways. -[1505.60 --> 1509.84] I have seen their ways, but I will heal them. -[1510.56 --> 1514.42] I will guide them and restore comfort to Israel's mourners, -[1515.16 --> 1517.52] creating praise on their lips. -[1517.52 --> 1529.00] O Lord, hear. -[1531.00 --> 1538.12] O Lord, forgive us. -[1538.12 --> 1553.12] O Lord, cleanse our hearts, which are divided, -[1553.12 --> 1567.02] O Lord, cleanse our hearts, which are divided, -[1568.60 --> 1574.12] Stir the faith that we once knew. -[1574.12 --> 1582.12] We're thirsty, we're thirsty. -[1584.12 --> 1598.32] O Lord, restore the church that bears your name. -[1598.32 --> 1611.94] O Spirit, send a revival to this nation. -[1611.94 --> 1618.62] Breathe on us again. -[1620.76 --> 1625.68] Breathe on us again. -[1628.32 --> 1633.88] O Lord, hear. -[1636.28 --> 1642.88] O Lord, forgive us. -[1642.88 --> 1649.00] We have lost the awe of you. -[1651.00 --> 1652.90] Have mercy. -[1654.30 --> 1656.10] Have mercy. -[1656.10 --> 1656.20] Have mercy. -[1658.32 --> 1670.52] O Lord, cleanse our hearts, which are divided, -[1670.52 --> 1678.28] Stir the faith that we once knew. -[1678.28 --> 1684.94] We're thirsty, we're thirsty. -[1684.94 --> 1698.94] O Lord, restore the church that bears your name. -[1698.94 --> 1712.94] O Spirit, send a revival to this nation. -[1712.94 --> 1718.94] Breathe on us again. -[1718.94 --> 1720.94] Breathe on us again. -[1720.94 --> 1722.94] Breathe on us again. -[1722.94 --> 1727.94] Breathe on us again. -[1727.94 --> 1728.94] Breathe on us again. -[1728.94 --> 1731.94] O Lord, restore the church that bears your name. -[1731.94 --> 1734.94] O Lord, restore the church that bears your name. -[1734.94 --> 1741.94] O Lord, the church that bears your name. -[1741.94 --> 1746.94] O Spirit, send a revival to this nation. -[1746.94 --> 1748.94] O Spirit, send a revival to this nation. -[1748.94 --> 1762.94] Breathe on us again. -[1762.94 --> 1764.94] Breathe on us again. -[1764.94 --> 1769.94] Breathe on us again. -[1769.94 --> 1773.18] Breathe on us again. -[1799.94 --> 1814.12] When I fear my faith will fail, Christ will hold me fast. -[1814.12 --> 1822.12] When the tempter would prevail, He will hold me fast. -[1822.12 --> 1831.20] I could never keep my hold through life's fearful path. -[1831.62 --> 1840.34] For my love is often cold, He must hold me fast. -[1841.12 --> 1845.62] He will hold me fast. -[1845.62 --> 1849.52] He will hold me fast. -[1849.70 --> 1853.76] For my Savior loves me so. -[1854.68 --> 1859.62] He will hold me fast. -[1859.62 --> 1872.52] Those He saves are His delight. -[1872.96 --> 1876.28] Christ will hold me fast. -[1876.74 --> 1884.66] Precious in His holy sight, He will hold me fast. -[1884.66 --> 1889.24] He'll not let my soul be lost. -[1889.58 --> 1893.16] His promises shall last. -[1893.62 --> 1901.66] Bought by Him at such a cost, He will hold me fast. -[1901.66 --> 1907.42] He will hold me fast. -[1907.42 --> 1911.06] He will hold me fast. -[1911.06 --> 1915.10] For my Savior loves me so. -[1916.00 --> 1920.92] He will hold me fast. -[1920.92 --> 1934.24] For my life He bled and died. -[1934.24 --> 1938.24] Christ will hold me fast. -[1938.24 --> 1942.06] Justice has been satisfied. -[1943.56 --> 1947.28] He will hold me fast. -[1947.28 --> 1952.14] Raised with Him to endless life. -[1952.14 --> 1955.88] He will hold me fast. -[1955.88 --> 1960.30] Till our faith is turned to sight. -[1960.30 --> 1964.48] When He comes at last. -[1964.48 --> 1969.48] He will hold me fast. -[1969.48 --> 1973.30] He will hold me fast. -[1973.30 --> 1977.80] For my Savior loves me so. -[1977.84 --> 1991.26] He will hold me fast. -[1991.26 --> 1994.94] For my Savior loves me so. -[1995.40 --> 2000.86] He will hold me fast. -[2000.86 --> 2003.66] you may have a seat -[2030.86 --> 2060.84] my name is Lina and I'm a deacon here the first offering today is for the budget and the second is for friendship ministries they are in partnership with the CRC to establish friendship groups within congregations this ministry is designed to enable all people regardless of ability or disability -[2060.84 --> 2087.78] to become active members in God's family Proverbs 31 8 and 9 open your mouth to the mute for the rights of all who are destitute open your mouth judge righteously defend the rights of the poor and needy give what God has led you to give -[2090.84 --> 2119.52] God is able -[2119.52 --> 2124.50] He will never fail -[2124.50 --> 2129.92] He is almighty God -[2129.92 --> 2133.12] Greater than all we seek -[2133.12 --> 2136.80] Greater than all we ask -[2136.80 --> 2141.92] He has done great things -[2141.92 --> 2144.04] Lifted up -[2144.04 --> 2148.16] He defeated the grave -[2148.16 --> 2150.20] Raised to life -[2150.20 --> 2153.46] Our God is able -[2153.46 --> 2157.14] In His name -[2157.14 --> 2159.14] We overcome -[2159.14 --> 2162.82] For the Lord -[2162.82 --> 2166.04] Our God is able -[2178.16 --> 2182.20] God is with us -[2182.72 --> 2186.20] God is on our side -[2186.20 --> 2191.14] He will make a way -[2191.14 --> 2194.96] Far above all we know -[2194.96 --> 2198.32] Far above all we hope -[2198.32 --> 2203.14] He has done great things -[2203.14 --> 2205.18] Lifted up -[2205.18 --> 2209.18] He defeated the grave -[2209.18 --> 2211.18] Raised to life -[2211.18 --> 2214.12] Our God is able -[2214.12 --> 2217.12] In His name -[2217.12 --> 2220.12] We overcome -[2220.12 --> 2223.12] For the Lord -[2223.12 --> 2226.12] Our God is able -[2226.12 --> 2227.16] God is able -[2227.16 --> 2243.68] God is with us -[2243.68 --> 2246.00] He will go before -[2246.00 --> 2249.40] He will never leave us -[2249.40 --> 2252.10] He will never leave us -[2252.10 --> 2255.10] God is for us -[2255.10 --> 2255.68] God is for us -[2255.68 --> 2258.44] He has open arms -[2258.44 --> 2261.38] He will never fail us -[2261.38 --> 2264.38] He will never fail us -[2264.38 --> 2266.14] Lifted up -[2266.14 --> 2270.36] He defeated the grave -[2270.36 --> 2272.28] Raised to life -[2272.28 --> 2275.08] Our God is able -[2275.08 --> 2277.12] In His name -[2277.12 --> 2279.12] In His name -[2279.12 --> 2281.12] We overcome -[2281.12 --> 2284.12] For the Lord -[2284.12 --> 2287.12] Our God is able -[2287.12 --> 2289.12] In His name -[2289.12 --> 2291.12] We overcome -[2291.12 --> 2292.12] For the Lord -[2292.12 --> 2293.12] Our God is able -[2293.12 --> 2295.12] Our God is able -[2295.12 --> 2313.16] For the Lord -[2313.16 --> 2317.16] Our God is able -[2317.16 --> 2319.16] For the Lord -[2319.16 --> 2323.16] Our God is able -[2323.16 --> 2325.34] To the Lord -[2325.34 --> 2325.70] We overcome -[2325.70 --> 2327.30] Our God is able -[2327.30 --> 2328.20] To the Lord -[2328.20 --> 2329.20] Our God is able -[2329.20 --> 2330.08] To the Lord -[2330.08 --> 2331.26] We overcome -[2331.26 --> 2332.20] Our God is able -[2332.20 --> 2333.20] To the Lord -[2333.20 --> 2334.20] Our God is able -[2334.20 --> 2335.20] To the Lord -[2335.20 --> 2336.20] Our God is able -[2336.20 --> 2337.20] To the Lord -[2337.20 --> 2338.20] Our God is able -[2338.20 --> 2339.20] To the Lord -[2339.20 --> 2340.90] Come on up kids -[2340.90 --> 2341.82] It's time for -[2341.82 --> 2342.50] Kids Corner -[2342.50 --> 2345.66] Anybody aged -[2345.66 --> 2347.14] Grade 4 and under -[2347.14 --> 2348.02] Or really anybody -[2348.02 --> 2348.52] At all -[2348.52 --> 2349.14] Come on up -[2349.14 --> 2349.88] To the front -[2349.88 --> 2359.32] All right -[2359.32 --> 2360.06] Who's ready -[2360.06 --> 2360.94] To say hi -[2360.94 --> 2361.66] To Hank -[2361.66 --> 2364.58] Hi kids -[2364.58 --> 2365.72] How are you doing -[2365.72 --> 2368.16] Excellent -[2368.16 --> 2368.46] Hank -[2368.46 --> 2369.16] What were you up -[2369.16 --> 2369.84] To this weekend -[2369.84 --> 2371.64] I had care group -[2371.64 --> 2372.70] Care group -[2372.70 --> 2373.96] That's fun -[2373.96 --> 2374.36] I didn't know -[2374.36 --> 2375.14] You were in a care group -[2375.14 --> 2376.38] Do you think -[2376.38 --> 2376.82] The kids know -[2376.82 --> 2377.64] What care group is -[2377.64 --> 2378.52] Let's ask -[2378.52 --> 2379.22] Kids do you know -[2379.22 --> 2380.04] What care group is -[2380.04 --> 2380.96] What's a care group -[2380.96 --> 2382.04] Anybody know -[2382.04 --> 2382.40] Does anybody -[2382.40 --> 2383.50] Anybody's parents -[2383.50 --> 2384.28] In a care group -[2384.28 --> 2386.50] No anybody know -[2386.50 --> 2387.60] Care group -[2387.60 --> 2388.58] Is something -[2388.58 --> 2390.48] Where a group -[2390.48 --> 2391.38] Of people get together -[2391.38 --> 2392.04] And they talk -[2392.04 --> 2392.88] About their life -[2392.88 --> 2393.44] And they talk -[2393.44 --> 2394.34] About God -[2394.34 --> 2395.46] And they pray together -[2395.46 --> 2396.72] And they help each other -[2396.72 --> 2397.40] Is that right Hank -[2397.40 --> 2398.10] Mm-hmm -[2398.10 --> 2399.80] I have a care group too -[2399.80 --> 2400.84] Should we meet -[2400.84 --> 2401.92] Hank's care group -[2401.92 --> 2402.70] Yeah -[2402.70 --> 2403.48] Do you have -[2403.48 --> 2404.16] Can we do that Hank -[2404.16 --> 2404.70] We can -[2404.70 --> 2405.60] I got pictures -[2405.60 --> 2406.62] All right -[2406.62 --> 2408.00] There's pictures up ahead here -[2408.00 --> 2408.40] Shall we see -[2408.40 --> 2409.06] Are you going to -[2409.06 --> 2409.74] Introduce us Hank -[2409.74 --> 2410.04] Yep -[2410.04 --> 2412.38] This is Horace the horse -[2412.38 --> 2414.10] He's the lead -[2414.10 --> 2415.10] He talks a lot -[2415.10 --> 2416.16] He's the leader -[2416.16 --> 2416.94] Every care group -[2416.94 --> 2417.94] Has someone who talks a lot -[2417.94 --> 2418.16] Hank -[2418.16 --> 2419.06] That's not a surprise -[2419.06 --> 2420.00] Well that's Horace -[2420.00 --> 2421.00] He's a nice guy -[2421.00 --> 2422.22] He leads us -[2422.22 --> 2422.86] All right -[2422.86 --> 2423.56] Who's next -[2423.56 --> 2426.62] Rosemary the raccoon -[2426.62 --> 2428.08] Oh she looks a little bit -[2428.08 --> 2429.02] Tough on the outside -[2429.02 --> 2430.44] She is a little tough -[2430.44 --> 2431.16] On the outside -[2431.16 --> 2432.86] But she's so sweet -[2432.86 --> 2433.88] On the inside -[2433.88 --> 2435.06] Oh that's nice -[2435.06 --> 2435.92] She seems lovely -[2435.92 --> 2436.64] Who's next -[2436.64 --> 2439.52] Sawyer Sloth -[2439.52 --> 2441.26] He's usually late -[2441.26 --> 2442.36] Oh is he -[2442.36 --> 2443.08] Yeah -[2443.08 --> 2443.90] You know what -[2443.90 --> 2444.40] Every care group -[2444.40 --> 2445.14] Has one of them too -[2445.14 --> 2445.58] Don't they -[2445.58 --> 2446.10] Mm-hmm -[2446.10 --> 2446.96] All right -[2446.96 --> 2447.60] Who's next -[2447.60 --> 2450.22] Gwendolyn the gator -[2450.22 --> 2451.88] She's one of my favorites -[2451.88 --> 2453.60] She looks so nice -[2453.60 --> 2454.32] Mm-hmm -[2454.32 --> 2457.34] She has the biggest smile -[2457.34 --> 2459.96] And she's a vegan -[2459.96 --> 2460.78] A vegan -[2460.78 --> 2461.82] Really -[2461.82 --> 2463.00] That's surprising -[2463.00 --> 2463.64] Yeah -[2463.64 --> 2465.20] Do you know how you can tell -[2465.20 --> 2466.04] If someone's a vegan -[2466.04 --> 2467.34] How Hank -[2467.34 --> 2468.46] You don't have to -[2468.46 --> 2469.18] They'll tell you -[2469.18 --> 2470.06] Oh that's true -[2470.06 --> 2471.66] That's a good point Hank -[2471.66 --> 2472.60] You make a good point -[2472.60 --> 2473.22] All right -[2473.22 --> 2473.90] Who's next -[2473.90 --> 2477.06] Cynthia the squirrel -[2477.06 --> 2479.60] I chased her for years -[2479.60 --> 2482.64] Did you ever catch her -[2482.64 --> 2483.68] No she's too fast -[2483.68 --> 2485.74] But she's very quick too -[2485.74 --> 2486.94] Very smart Cynthia -[2486.94 --> 2487.86] She's so nice -[2487.86 --> 2489.12] And who else do we have -[2489.12 --> 2490.34] It's the last one -[2490.34 --> 2492.20] Craig the chameleon -[2492.20 --> 2492.92] Oh -[2492.92 --> 2494.42] He disappears sometimes -[2494.42 --> 2495.68] So we don't always see him -[2495.68 --> 2496.86] But he's there -[2496.86 --> 2497.98] Well that seems like -[2497.98 --> 2499.10] Such a good care group Hank -[2499.10 --> 2500.30] Yeah I like them all -[2500.30 --> 2501.42] They're so nice -[2501.42 --> 2502.22] Do you know that -[2502.22 --> 2503.34] We're going to talk about -[2503.34 --> 2505.20] What it means to be a part of a group -[2505.20 --> 2506.50] And learning together -[2506.50 --> 2508.00] As God's family -[2508.00 --> 2509.28] And Jesus did that too -[2509.28 --> 2511.48] Jesus had a bunch of people -[2511.48 --> 2512.22] That followed him -[2512.22 --> 2512.96] Called the disciples -[2512.96 --> 2513.86] And he taught them -[2513.86 --> 2514.78] And they learned together -[2514.78 --> 2515.22] As a group -[2515.22 --> 2516.50] So we're going to talk about that -[2516.50 --> 2517.08] In the back -[2517.08 --> 2517.92] Is that a good idea -[2517.92 --> 2518.96] Should we do that -[2518.96 --> 2519.64] All right -[2519.64 --> 2520.58] We're going to pray -[2520.58 --> 2521.44] Yeah let's pray -[2521.44 --> 2522.42] And then we'll go to -[2522.42 --> 2523.30] Children's worship time -[2523.30 --> 2523.56] Okay -[2523.56 --> 2524.68] All right -[2524.68 --> 2525.66] Hank should pray -[2525.66 --> 2526.58] Oh you know what -[2526.58 --> 2527.88] Hank do you think you can pray -[2527.88 --> 2529.18] Maybe next time -[2529.18 --> 2529.60] All right -[2529.60 --> 2530.28] Maybe next time -[2530.28 --> 2530.76] Hank will pray -[2530.76 --> 2531.04] Okay -[2531.04 --> 2532.00] All right -[2532.00 --> 2532.94] Let's bow our heads -[2532.94 --> 2533.70] And let's pray -[2533.70 --> 2534.08] Dear God -[2534.08 --> 2534.92] Thank you for this day -[2534.92 --> 2535.54] Thank you that we could -[2535.54 --> 2536.12] Come to church -[2536.12 --> 2537.00] That we could go to -[2537.00 --> 2537.90] Children's worship time -[2537.90 --> 2538.48] And that the grown ups -[2538.48 --> 2539.28] Could stay back here -[2539.28 --> 2540.30] Be with us now -[2540.30 --> 2541.54] As we learn more about you -[2541.54 --> 2542.48] And what it means -[2542.48 --> 2543.86] To be a part of your family -[2543.86 --> 2545.30] We pray this in your name -[2545.30 --> 2546.54] Amen -[2546.54 --> 2547.34] All right -[2547.34 --> 2548.14] Let's stand up -[2548.14 --> 2551.32] And do the kids blessing -[2551.32 --> 2554.30] And let's say -[2554.30 --> 2555.44] The Lord be with you together -[2555.44 --> 2555.94] Are you ready? -[2555.94 --> 2558.54] The Lord be with you -[2558.54 --> 2560.34] And I'll hold you -[2560.34 --> 2581.02] Good morning everyone -[2581.02 --> 2584.22] My name's Eric -[2584.22 --> 2585.58] I'm one of the elders here as well -[2585.58 --> 2586.80] We had a council meeting -[2586.80 --> 2587.78] About a week and a half ago -[2587.78 --> 2590.48] So I was just going to give a little update -[2590.48 --> 2590.94] This morning -[2590.94 --> 2593.28] What was on a bit of the agenda there -[2593.28 --> 2595.20] A week and a half ago -[2595.20 --> 2597.62] First thing we did -[2597.62 --> 2598.94] We did a lot of work -[2598.94 --> 2600.20] On reviewing job descriptions -[2600.20 --> 2601.46] For all our part time staff -[2601.46 --> 2602.82] So we worked on that -[2602.82 --> 2604.90] And got that all tidied up -[2604.90 --> 2606.50] For the future -[2606.50 --> 2608.16] We're grateful for all the work -[2608.16 --> 2610.00] All our part time staff do here -[2610.00 --> 2610.74] From in the office -[2610.74 --> 2611.90] And the cleaning staff -[2611.90 --> 2612.86] And all that kind of stuff -[2612.86 --> 2614.72] So we did that -[2614.72 --> 2617.32] There's a -[2617.32 --> 2617.90] We're hiring -[2617.90 --> 2618.54] We're looking for -[2618.54 --> 2620.32] A communications administrator -[2620.32 --> 2621.60] So I'm sure that's been -[2621.60 --> 2622.42] Mentioned here -[2622.42 --> 2623.56] From the pulpit for a while -[2623.56 --> 2625.28] So if we have one more week -[2625.28 --> 2627.48] To accept applications for that -[2627.48 --> 2628.38] So if you're interested -[2628.38 --> 2629.02] In that position -[2629.02 --> 2630.76] Please take care of that -[2630.76 --> 2631.20] This week -[2631.20 --> 2633.46] We have a report -[2633.46 --> 2634.22] From the elders -[2634.22 --> 2635.78] On special services -[2635.78 --> 2637.34] We talked a bit about that -[2637.34 --> 2638.10] At the council meeting -[2638.10 --> 2639.10] But we actually have a video -[2639.10 --> 2640.24] About it this morning -[2640.24 --> 2641.44] That we'd like to share with you -[2641.44 --> 2651.94] The worship ministries team -[2651.94 --> 2652.62] About a year ago -[2652.62 --> 2654.14] The worship ministries team -[2654.14 --> 2654.96] Asked the elders -[2654.96 --> 2655.74] To think about -[2655.74 --> 2657.34] Which special worship services -[2657.34 --> 2658.00] We will call them together for -[2658.00 --> 2658.84] In response to that -[2658.84 --> 2659.46] As elders -[2659.46 --> 2660.70] In response to that -[2660.70 --> 2661.28] As elders -[2661.28 --> 2663.20] We have spent the last year or so -[2663.20 --> 2664.00] Thinking about -[2664.00 --> 2664.82] Worship or worship -[2664.82 --> 2665.70] And the importance of -[2665.70 --> 2667.14] Gathering or worship together -[2667.14 --> 2668.12] As a church family -[2668.12 --> 2669.72] As Luke writes -[2669.72 --> 2670.76] The book of Acts -[2670.76 --> 2671.94] From the beginning -[2671.94 --> 2674.16] Until today -[2674.16 --> 2675.64] The church has always gathered -[2675.64 --> 2676.88] Devoting themselves -[2676.88 --> 2678.12] To the apostles teaching -[2678.12 --> 2679.26] To the fellowship -[2679.26 --> 2680.76] To the breaking of bread -[2680.76 --> 2681.26] And prayer -[2681.26 --> 2682.10] The church has always held -[2682.10 --> 2684.28] The church has always held -[2684.28 --> 2685.44] The importance of gathering -[2685.44 --> 2686.00] For worship -[2686.00 --> 2686.94] In the life of the church -[2686.94 --> 2688.98] In the life of the church -[2688.98 --> 2689.60] Many of those special services -[2689.60 --> 2692.76] Do not fall on Sundays -[2692.76 --> 2693.68] Christmas -[2693.68 --> 2694.90] Special services include -[2694.90 --> 2695.40] New Year's -[2695.40 --> 2695.70] Christmas -[2695.70 --> 2696.72] New Year's Day -[2696.72 --> 2697.64] Ash Wednesday -[2697.64 --> 2698.56] New Year's Day -[2698.56 --> 2699.64] Ash Wednesday -[2699.64 --> 2700.88] Good Friday -[2700.88 --> 2701.50] Ash Wednesday -[2701.50 --> 2701.76] Good Friday -[2701.76 --> 2702.26] And Thanksgiving Day -[2702.26 --> 2703.64] It is these specific services -[2703.64 --> 2706.88] That the elders have spent the last year -[2706.88 --> 2707.58] Looking at reform -[2707.58 --> 2708.64] History and tradition -[2708.64 --> 2709.44] Looking at reform -[2709.44 --> 2710.50] History and tradition -[2710.50 --> 2712.04] As well as the church order -[2712.04 --> 2713.22] Of Christian reform church -[2713.22 --> 2714.86] We have used two principles -[2714.86 --> 2715.78] To guide our discussion -[2715.78 --> 2717.02] And our conclusions -[2717.02 --> 2718.06] To how we will observe -[2718.06 --> 2719.14] These two principles are -[2719.14 --> 2719.94] Following the -[2719.94 --> 2721.02] Those two principles are -[2721.02 --> 2721.78] Following the -[2721.78 --> 2722.32] Looting ourselves -[2722.32 --> 2722.70] In the calendar -[2722.70 --> 2723.36] Of scripture -[2723.36 --> 2724.22] And rooting ourselves -[2724.22 --> 2725.10] In the drama of scripture -[2725.10 --> 2725.96] And gather as many of our church families -[2725.96 --> 2726.24] Possible -[2726.24 --> 2727.82] To gather as many of our church families -[2727.82 --> 2730.16] One of the unique aspects of Christianity -[2730.16 --> 2732.06] One of the unique aspects of Christianity -[2732.06 --> 2732.74] Is our -[2732.74 --> 2734.32] The incarnation actually happened -[2734.32 --> 2736.12] The incarnation actually happened -[2736.12 --> 2737.82] Jesus actually lived -[2737.82 --> 2738.86] And walked on the earth -[2738.86 --> 2738.94] He died on a Roman cross -[2738.94 --> 2740.78] He died on a Roman cross -[2740.78 --> 2741.16] The tomb is actually empty -[2741.16 --> 2743.56] And Jesus has ascended to the right hand -[2743.56 --> 2744.40] And God's Father -[2744.40 --> 2746.58] Our worship together -[2746.58 --> 2747.74] Invites us to live -[2747.74 --> 2748.42] Our worship together -[2748.42 --> 2749.68] Invites us to live -[2749.68 --> 2750.74] Into the redemption -[2750.74 --> 2751.48] Christmas -[2751.48 --> 2752.24] Ash Wednesday -[2752.24 --> 2753.10] Christmas -[2753.10 --> 2754.58] And Ascension Day -[2754.58 --> 2755.20] Good Friday -[2755.20 --> 2756.34] And Ascension Day -[2756.34 --> 2758.16] Will continue to be days -[2758.16 --> 2759.86] Where our church is called to gather -[2759.86 --> 2760.58] As a family -[2760.58 --> 2761.44] New years is a season -[2761.44 --> 2762.38] Where we look back -[2762.38 --> 2763.58] On what God has done -[2763.58 --> 2764.38] Where we look back -[2764.38 --> 2765.48] On what God has done -[2765.48 --> 2766.14] In the past year -[2766.14 --> 2767.72] And where we anticipate -[2767.72 --> 2768.56] With excitement -[2768.56 --> 2769.78] What God might do -[2769.78 --> 2770.22] Likewise -[2770.22 --> 2771.72] Thanksgiving is a season -[2771.72 --> 2772.06] Likewise -[2772.06 --> 2773.60] Thanksgiving is a season -[2773.60 --> 2774.34] Where we are great -[2774.34 --> 2774.88] Giving to God -[2774.88 --> 2775.82] For all the blessings -[2775.82 --> 2776.54] He has given us -[2776.54 --> 2777.00] We believe -[2777.00 --> 2777.90] That the best way -[2777.90 --> 2778.34] To gather -[2778.34 --> 2779.26] As many of us -[2779.26 --> 2779.80] As possible -[2779.80 --> 2780.42] To celebrate -[2780.42 --> 2781.00] New years -[2781.00 --> 2782.20] Is to do so -[2782.20 --> 2783.28] On the first Sunday -[2783.28 --> 2784.16] Is to do so -[2784.16 --> 2785.02] On the first Sunday -[2785.02 --> 2785.48] And the best way -[2785.48 --> 2786.52] To celebrate Thanksgiving -[2786.52 --> 2787.38] And the best way -[2787.38 --> 2788.34] To celebrate Thanksgiving -[2788.34 --> 2789.54] Is to do so -[2789.54 --> 2790.20] On the Sunday -[2790.20 --> 2791.52] Preceding Thanksgiving -[2791.52 --> 2791.84] Monday -[2791.84 --> 2791.90] In this way -[2791.90 --> 2792.86] We continue to observe -[2792.86 --> 2793.64] Those occasions -[2793.64 --> 2794.76] And do so -[2794.76 --> 2795.40] In those occasions -[2795.40 --> 2797.00] We do so in a way -[2797.00 --> 2798.48] More meaningfully connected -[2798.48 --> 2799.00] To the worship -[2799.00 --> 2800.42] By making these small changes -[2800.42 --> 2801.22] We believe -[2801.22 --> 2802.68] To live into the redemption -[2802.68 --> 2803.54] We are -[2803.54 --> 2804.48] To live into the redemption -[2804.48 --> 2805.60] More comprehensively -[2805.60 --> 2808.80] Gather the family of believers -[2808.80 --> 2809.68] If you would like to see -[2809.68 --> 2810.88] The full one page report -[2810.88 --> 2811.56] If you would like to see -[2811.56 --> 2812.72] The full one page report -[2812.72 --> 2813.46] From the elders -[2813.46 --> 2814.18] These decisions -[2814.18 --> 2815.34] From the elders -[2815.34 --> 2816.50] It has been linked below -[2816.50 --> 2818.88] In the description box -[2818.88 --> 2819.66] If you would like to have -[2819.66 --> 2820.36] More information -[2820.36 --> 2822.16] Or ask any questions -[2822.16 --> 2823.60] Please speak to any of the elders -[2823.60 --> 2824.20] Or pastors -[2824.20 --> 2826.66] We would be happy to hear from you -[2826.66 --> 2828.06] Thanks for watching -[2828.06 --> 2836.14] Okay thank you elders -[2836.14 --> 2836.80] For that video -[2836.80 --> 2837.60] That was a great video -[2837.60 --> 2840.42] Explaining the changes -[2840.42 --> 2840.96] We are making -[2840.96 --> 2842.98] With our services -[2842.98 --> 2846.08] Kevin already alerted -[2846.08 --> 2846.54] To the fact -[2846.54 --> 2847.34] That we -[2847.34 --> 2849.00] That Emmanuel -[2849.00 --> 2849.74] Is going to take on -[2849.74 --> 2850.66] The reactivate -[2850.66 --> 2851.60] Conference -[2851.60 --> 2852.32] And council -[2852.32 --> 2853.32] As well -[2853.32 --> 2854.20] Has supported -[2854.20 --> 2855.06] On your behalf -[2855.06 --> 2856.20] That Emmanuel -[2856.20 --> 2856.98] Take that on -[2856.98 --> 2858.24] And it was important -[2858.24 --> 2859.42] For all council members -[2859.42 --> 2860.86] That this conference -[2860.86 --> 2862.98] Continue to keep going -[2862.98 --> 2863.82] Despite changes -[2863.82 --> 2866.86] And youth pastors -[2866.86 --> 2867.74] In other churches -[2867.74 --> 2869.34] Not being around -[2869.34 --> 2870.00] Or resigning -[2870.00 --> 2870.72] And such -[2870.72 --> 2872.34] So that conference -[2872.34 --> 2873.32] Continues to happen -[2873.32 --> 2874.68] Classes BC -[2874.68 --> 2875.14] Is happening -[2875.14 --> 2876.26] March 7th and 8th -[2876.26 --> 2876.96] I think Dolores -[2876.96 --> 2877.60] Is heading up -[2877.60 --> 2879.00] The volunteers for that -[2879.00 --> 2879.72] So if you're interested -[2879.72 --> 2880.70] In helping during the day -[2880.70 --> 2882.46] We're hosting it here -[2882.46 --> 2882.92] At Emmanuel -[2882.92 --> 2884.70] So thank you -[2884.70 --> 2885.74] For those who've -[2885.74 --> 2886.54] Already signed up -[2886.54 --> 2887.30] And there's a poster -[2887.30 --> 2887.88] Board outside -[2887.88 --> 2888.40] If you want to -[2888.40 --> 2889.10] Put your name on it -[2889.10 --> 2890.08] Or speak to Dolores -[2890.08 --> 2892.68] I got one more thing -[2892.68 --> 2893.20] To add -[2893.20 --> 2894.22] I was -[2894.22 --> 2895.18] I -[2895.18 --> 2896.12] You know the -[2896.12 --> 2897.24] Parable in the Bible -[2897.24 --> 2898.70] About the sheep -[2898.70 --> 2899.86] And the hundred sheep -[2899.86 --> 2900.86] And the one lost sheep -[2900.86 --> 2901.60] So as I was -[2901.60 --> 2902.92] On my Instagram -[2902.92 --> 2904.16] A couple weeks ago -[2904.16 --> 2905.00] I came across -[2905.00 --> 2905.74] This cool video -[2905.74 --> 2906.86] Do you ever wonder -[2906.86 --> 2908.40] What that one lost sheep -[2908.40 --> 2909.18] Is like ever -[2909.18 --> 2910.28] At the one that got away -[2910.28 --> 2911.52] That Jesus says -[2911.52 --> 2912.48] That he went after -[2912.48 --> 2913.16] And brought back -[2913.16 --> 2913.70] To the fold -[2913.70 --> 2914.60] Well I'm going to -[2914.60 --> 2915.44] Show you a cool video -[2915.44 --> 2916.04] That I found -[2916.04 --> 2916.70] On Instagram -[2916.70 --> 2929.56] Anyway I leave you with that -[2929.56 --> 2930.24] Thank you -[2930.24 --> 2939.44] Good morning -[2939.44 --> 2940.88] My name is Ken -[2940.88 --> 2941.72] I'm an elder here -[2941.72 --> 2942.66] At Emmanuel Church -[2942.66 --> 2943.74] And this morning -[2943.74 --> 2945.12] I have the privilege -[2945.12 --> 2946.76] Of leading our brothers -[2946.76 --> 2947.52] And sisters together -[2947.52 --> 2948.92] In our church family prayer -[2948.92 --> 2950.06] Before we go into prayer -[2950.06 --> 2951.08] I just want to make -[2951.08 --> 2951.74] One more announcement -[2951.74 --> 2953.02] That next week -[2953.02 --> 2954.00] We will be having -[2954.00 --> 2955.74] The communion together -[2955.74 --> 2956.42] And we'll be having -[2956.42 --> 2957.08] The Lord's Supper -[2957.08 --> 2958.54] So take time this week -[2958.54 --> 2959.88] To think about that -[2959.88 --> 2960.56] Talk about that -[2960.56 --> 2961.32] Amongst your families -[2961.32 --> 2963.36] And to reflect on -[2963.36 --> 2963.86] What it means -[2963.86 --> 2964.66] To come to the table -[2964.66 --> 2965.74] And to prepare your hearts -[2965.74 --> 2967.44] So now let's go together -[2967.44 --> 2968.88] In our family prayer -[2968.88 --> 2971.54] Lord God -[2971.54 --> 2972.78] Our Father in Heaven -[2972.78 --> 2974.04] How majestic -[2974.04 --> 2975.06] Is your name -[2975.06 --> 2975.96] Above the earth -[2975.96 --> 2977.16] The heavens -[2977.16 --> 2978.26] Declare your glory -[2978.26 --> 2979.14] The skies -[2979.14 --> 2980.26] Proclaim the works -[2980.26 --> 2980.88] Of your hands -[2980.88 --> 2982.56] Day after day -[2982.56 --> 2983.86] They pour out speech -[2983.86 --> 2984.98] Night after night -[2984.98 --> 2986.24] They reveal knowledge -[2986.24 --> 2987.76] And while the skies -[2987.76 --> 2988.30] And the heavens -[2988.30 --> 2989.66] Don't use audible sounds -[2989.66 --> 2990.52] Their voices -[2990.52 --> 2991.50] Still go out -[2991.50 --> 2992.68] Into all the earth -[2992.68 --> 2993.74] And their words -[2993.74 --> 2994.42] To the ends -[2994.42 --> 2995.00] Of the world -[2995.00 --> 2996.90] Lord we see -[2996.90 --> 2997.52] And experience -[2997.52 --> 2998.64] And know your glory -[2998.64 --> 2999.76] So we're gathered -[2999.76 --> 3000.76] Here together today -[3000.76 --> 3001.40] As your people -[3001.40 --> 3002.82] At Emmanuel Church -[3002.82 --> 3003.56] To sing praise -[3003.56 --> 3004.12] To your name -[3004.12 --> 3005.18] And to unite our hearts -[3005.18 --> 3006.02] Together in worship -[3006.02 --> 3007.22] To hear your word -[3007.22 --> 3007.84] And to pray -[3007.84 --> 3009.64] And we thank you -[3009.64 --> 3009.92] Lord -[3009.92 --> 3011.14] For all the ministries -[3011.14 --> 3011.76] That Emmanuel -[3011.76 --> 3012.54] Has been blessed -[3012.54 --> 3013.36] With the opportunities -[3013.36 --> 3014.40] To participate in -[3014.40 --> 3015.90] We ask Lord -[3015.90 --> 3016.68] That you give our church -[3016.68 --> 3017.74] What we stand in need of -[3017.74 --> 3019.24] To minister effectively -[3019.24 --> 3020.12] To each other -[3020.12 --> 3021.20] And to the world -[3021.20 --> 3021.86] Around us -[3021.86 --> 3023.46] We know that you gave -[3023.46 --> 3024.08] The apostles -[3024.08 --> 3025.12] The prophets -[3025.12 --> 3026.06] The evangelists -[3026.06 --> 3026.80] The pastors -[3026.80 --> 3027.54] And the teachers -[3027.54 --> 3029.00] To equip your people -[3029.00 --> 3030.30] For works of service -[3030.30 --> 3031.86] So that the body of Christ -[3031.86 --> 3032.76] May be built up -[3032.76 --> 3034.12] Lord we ask -[3034.12 --> 3035.06] That you build us up -[3035.06 --> 3035.86] As your church -[3035.86 --> 3037.18] To the whole measure -[3037.18 --> 3038.22] And fullness of Christ -[3038.22 --> 3040.64] And as a church -[3040.64 --> 3042.04] And extended communities -[3042.04 --> 3043.16] Lord our lives -[3043.16 --> 3043.86] Have been touched -[3043.86 --> 3044.90] By the loss -[3044.90 --> 3045.62] Of loved ones -[3045.62 --> 3046.40] Again this week -[3046.40 --> 3047.92] Lord we pray -[3047.92 --> 3048.74] For the family -[3048.74 --> 3049.32] And friends -[3049.32 --> 3050.08] Of young Matthew -[3050.08 --> 3051.10] Who passed away -[3051.10 --> 3052.14] Suddenly a week ago -[3052.14 --> 3053.70] As his family -[3053.70 --> 3054.22] And friends -[3054.22 --> 3054.66] Are mourning -[3054.66 --> 3055.50] This heavy loss -[3055.50 --> 3056.54] Lord we ask -[3056.54 --> 3057.38] That you bless them -[3057.38 --> 3058.12] With comfort -[3058.12 --> 3059.04] That only you -[3059.04 --> 3059.64] Can provide -[3059.64 --> 3061.84] We also lift up -[3061.84 --> 3062.70] Others in our midst -[3062.70 --> 3063.86] Lord who are carrying -[3063.86 --> 3064.84] The burden of loss -[3064.84 --> 3065.98] We think of the -[3065.98 --> 3066.70] Grimm and Heinen -[3066.70 --> 3067.72] And Hanson families -[3067.72 --> 3068.62] Who are preparing -[3068.62 --> 3069.88] For the memorial service -[3069.88 --> 3071.08] For Helen mid-month -[3071.08 --> 3072.98] We also think of others -[3072.98 --> 3073.68] Who have lost -[3073.68 --> 3074.86] Near and dear loved ones -[3074.86 --> 3075.96] Over the past months -[3075.96 --> 3076.84] And even years -[3076.84 --> 3078.72] Lord we read in scripture -[3078.72 --> 3080.02] That you will wipe away -[3080.02 --> 3081.38] Every tear from our eyes -[3081.38 --> 3082.84] And that you are close -[3082.84 --> 3083.94] To the broken hearted -[3083.94 --> 3085.62] And that you -[3085.62 --> 3087.38] You save those -[3087.38 --> 3088.98] Who are crushed in spirit -[3088.98 --> 3090.50] Help us Lord -[3090.50 --> 3091.88] To experience your closeness -[3091.88 --> 3092.72] And to give you -[3092.72 --> 3093.56] All of our tears -[3093.56 --> 3094.58] As we mourn -[3094.58 --> 3095.68] And grieve our losses -[3095.68 --> 3097.88] And Lord we lift up -[3097.88 --> 3098.76] All those that we know -[3098.76 --> 3099.94] Of that are dealing -[3099.94 --> 3101.62] With illness and pain -[3101.62 --> 3103.52] Lord we know and trust -[3103.52 --> 3104.56] That you are the God -[3104.56 --> 3105.70] Who heals our diseases -[3105.70 --> 3107.24] And we ask you -[3107.24 --> 3108.54] For healing in our lives -[3108.54 --> 3110.48] We look to the world -[3110.48 --> 3111.14] Around us Lord -[3111.14 --> 3111.84] And we confess -[3111.84 --> 3112.80] That as humanity -[3112.80 --> 3114.20] We have often failed -[3114.20 --> 3114.88] To remember -[3114.88 --> 3116.36] That the earth is yours -[3116.36 --> 3117.48] And everything in it -[3117.48 --> 3118.36] The world -[3118.36 --> 3119.32] And all who live in it -[3119.32 --> 3120.76] We look at the war -[3120.76 --> 3121.30] In Ukraine -[3121.30 --> 3122.34] And Lord we ask -[3122.34 --> 3122.92] That you perform -[3122.92 --> 3123.80] Changing works -[3123.80 --> 3124.40] In the hearts -[3124.40 --> 3124.98] Of the people -[3124.98 --> 3126.28] To allow this conflict -[3126.28 --> 3127.38] To come to an end -[3127.38 --> 3129.42] We pray for the numerous -[3129.42 --> 3130.32] Other conflicts -[3130.32 --> 3131.28] That are taking place -[3131.28 --> 3132.04] In various places -[3132.04 --> 3132.68] Around the world -[3132.68 --> 3134.12] So many Lord -[3134.12 --> 3135.26] That we cannot name them all -[3135.26 --> 3136.60] Forgive us -[3136.60 --> 3137.50] For our indifference -[3137.50 --> 3138.08] At times -[3138.08 --> 3139.38] And Lord we pray -[3139.38 --> 3140.70] For all political leaders -[3140.70 --> 3141.50] At all levels -[3141.50 --> 3142.90] That they would serve -[3142.90 --> 3143.64] With justice -[3143.64 --> 3144.38] And integrity -[3144.38 --> 3145.72] And with the authority -[3145.72 --> 3147.06] That comes from only you -[3147.06 --> 3148.58] As there is no authority -[3148.58 --> 3149.34] Except that -[3149.34 --> 3150.44] Which you have established -[3150.44 --> 3152.36] We pray Lord -[3152.36 --> 3153.36] For our church leaders -[3153.36 --> 3154.44] For the staff -[3154.44 --> 3155.48] Pastors -[3155.48 --> 3156.70] Ministry leaders -[3156.70 --> 3158.08] And for council members -[3158.08 --> 3159.84] Help each of them Lord -[3159.84 --> 3161.10] To trust in you -[3161.10 --> 3162.14] With all their heart -[3162.14 --> 3163.26] And to lean not on -[3163.26 --> 3164.28] Their own understanding -[3164.28 --> 3165.60] We know -[3165.60 --> 3166.80] That if we acknowledge you -[3166.80 --> 3167.50] In all our ways -[3167.50 --> 3169.14] God you will direct our paths -[3169.14 --> 3170.26] Please help us -[3170.26 --> 3171.08] To acknowledge you -[3171.08 --> 3171.48] Always -[3171.48 --> 3172.68] And in everything -[3172.68 --> 3174.36] Lord this week -[3174.36 --> 3176.50] We pray for Jackie and Robin -[3176.50 --> 3177.46] As they will be traveling -[3177.46 --> 3178.46] To Grand Rapids -[3178.46 --> 3179.92] For the worship symposium -[3179.92 --> 3181.18] We pray God -[3181.18 --> 3181.68] That you give them -[3181.68 --> 3182.60] Traveling mercies -[3182.60 --> 3183.94] And bless this event -[3183.94 --> 3184.94] And its work -[3184.94 --> 3185.76] That it might have -[3185.76 --> 3186.82] A positive impact -[3186.82 --> 3188.60] And movement forward -[3188.60 --> 3189.46] In our worship -[3189.46 --> 3190.22] Here at Emmanuel -[3190.22 --> 3190.78] As well -[3190.78 --> 3193.52] Lord we thank you -[3193.52 --> 3194.70] That we have the opportunity -[3194.70 --> 3195.88] To participate -[3195.88 --> 3196.70] In the Lord's Supper -[3196.70 --> 3197.28] Next week -[3197.28 --> 3198.88] Help us prepare -[3198.88 --> 3199.50] Our hearts -[3199.50 --> 3200.50] And our families -[3200.50 --> 3201.56] And our relationships -[3201.56 --> 3202.30] With our brothers -[3202.30 --> 3203.40] And sisters this week -[3203.40 --> 3205.26] So that we can come together -[3205.26 --> 3206.08] To the table -[3206.08 --> 3207.00] Knowing that we are -[3207.00 --> 3207.56] One body -[3207.56 --> 3208.52] And sharing -[3208.52 --> 3209.42] In the same loaf -[3209.42 --> 3210.54] Participating -[3210.54 --> 3211.24] In the body -[3211.24 --> 3212.12] And blood of Christ -[3212.12 --> 3213.84] And now Lord -[3213.84 --> 3214.56] As we turn -[3214.56 --> 3215.42] To your word -[3215.42 --> 3216.50] And Pastor Chris -[3216.50 --> 3217.14] Leads us -[3217.14 --> 3218.18] Into further study -[3218.18 --> 3218.78] Of Paul's letter -[3218.78 --> 3219.38] To the Romans -[3219.38 --> 3220.32] We ask Lord -[3220.32 --> 3220.88] That you speak -[3220.88 --> 3221.70] Your words -[3221.70 --> 3222.56] To our hearts -[3222.56 --> 3223.42] Through his message -[3223.42 --> 3224.44] That the words -[3224.44 --> 3225.02] Of Christ -[3225.02 --> 3225.92] Can dwell in us -[3225.92 --> 3226.58] More richly -[3226.58 --> 3228.28] We ask all these things -[3228.28 --> 3228.70] Humbly -[3228.70 --> 3229.24] In the name -[3229.24 --> 3229.82] Of our Savior -[3229.82 --> 3230.24] And Lord -[3230.24 --> 3231.04] Jesus Christ -[3231.04 --> 3231.74] Amen -[3242.12 --> 3264.76] As Ken prayed -[3264.76 --> 3265.60] We're going to continue -[3265.60 --> 3266.86] This morning -[3266.86 --> 3267.64] In our worship -[3267.64 --> 3268.94] By going back -[3268.94 --> 3269.86] To the book -[3269.86 --> 3270.46] Of Romans -[3270.46 --> 3272.20] We have been -[3272.20 --> 3273.96] Here for a little bit -[3273.96 --> 3275.52] We're going to -[3275.52 --> 3276.80] Read together -[3276.80 --> 3278.76] From Romans 2 -[3278.76 --> 3280.40] The first 16 verses -[3280.40 --> 3281.58] It will be on screen -[3281.58 --> 3283.44] I encourage you -[3283.44 --> 3284.28] If you have a Bible -[3284.28 --> 3285.52] To open it up -[3285.52 --> 3286.84] And keep that open -[3286.84 --> 3287.50] In front of you -[3287.50 --> 3288.94] As we're going to -[3288.94 --> 3290.88] Refer back to it -[3290.88 --> 3291.80] Pretty regularly -[3291.80 --> 3292.22] Throughout -[3292.22 --> 3294.28] While you are finding it -[3294.28 --> 3295.46] I want to begin -[3295.46 --> 3296.04] Just with a -[3296.04 --> 3297.22] Bit of a story -[3297.22 --> 3300.16] Before I went -[3300.16 --> 3301.28] To university -[3301.28 --> 3302.34] Before I became -[3302.34 --> 3302.98] A pastor -[3302.98 --> 3305.24] I spent a year -[3305.24 --> 3305.92] And then -[3305.92 --> 3307.40] While I was in school -[3307.40 --> 3308.50] The next six -[3308.50 --> 3309.66] Or seven of them -[3309.66 --> 3311.62] Learning how to build houses -[3311.62 --> 3313.30] And learning framing -[3313.30 --> 3315.94] And so the first year -[3315.94 --> 3317.06] That I did so -[3317.06 --> 3318.88] I worked with my cousin -[3318.88 --> 3319.66] And my uncle -[3319.66 --> 3320.80] And we were building houses -[3320.80 --> 3322.16] In Ontario -[3322.16 --> 3323.08] In subdivisions -[3323.08 --> 3324.48] And if you've ever -[3324.48 --> 3325.84] Framed subdivision houses -[3325.84 --> 3326.68] You know you've got -[3326.68 --> 3327.92] Three or five days -[3327.92 --> 3329.02] To get the framing done -[3329.02 --> 3329.68] Because then -[3329.68 --> 3331.26] The next crew is coming in -[3331.26 --> 3332.52] And the next crew is coming in -[3332.52 --> 3333.98] And they crank him out -[3333.98 --> 3334.48] Pretty quick -[3334.48 --> 3335.66] And so it's not always -[3335.66 --> 3336.42] The best environment -[3336.42 --> 3337.90] To learn how to frame -[3337.90 --> 3339.48] Because you're moving -[3339.48 --> 3340.78] Really quickly -[3340.78 --> 3342.66] And I'll never forget -[3342.66 --> 3344.96] Must have been my second -[3344.96 --> 3345.90] Or third day -[3345.90 --> 3346.86] On the job -[3346.86 --> 3348.78] And there was -[3348.78 --> 3349.78] A point where -[3349.78 --> 3351.22] I had to nail together -[3351.22 --> 3351.98] Two boards -[3351.98 --> 3352.84] That were overhead -[3352.84 --> 3354.10] But there was only -[3354.10 --> 3355.90] Like a six inch gap -[3355.90 --> 3357.56] Where I could get my hammer -[3357.56 --> 3360.04] And then a three and a half inch spike -[3360.04 --> 3361.86] To try and nail it in -[3361.86 --> 3363.74] And so I couldn't actually -[3363.74 --> 3365.38] Like swing really well -[3365.38 --> 3366.08] Right -[3366.08 --> 3366.94] And I ended up -[3366.94 --> 3368.58] Turning the hammer sideways -[3368.58 --> 3370.02] Some of you know -[3370.02 --> 3370.96] This little trick right -[3370.96 --> 3371.60] And then you use the -[3371.60 --> 3373.02] The flat of the crux -[3373.02 --> 3373.48] Of the hammer -[3373.48 --> 3375.08] And then you slowly tap -[3375.08 --> 3379.12] There I tapped -[3379.12 --> 3379.64] And I tapped -[3379.64 --> 3380.16] And I tapped -[3380.16 --> 3380.68] And I tapped -[3380.68 --> 3381.68] With futility -[3381.68 --> 3382.72] Because the dale -[3382.72 --> 3383.52] Just wasn't going in -[3383.52 --> 3384.32] I couldn't get enough -[3384.32 --> 3385.70] Force behind it -[3385.70 --> 3387.06] And so for about -[3387.06 --> 3387.82] Twenty minutes -[3387.82 --> 3389.70] I stood there -[3389.70 --> 3390.74] Trying to bang -[3390.74 --> 3391.80] These nails in -[3391.80 --> 3392.80] And I look over -[3392.80 --> 3393.46] My shoulder -[3393.46 --> 3394.24] And my uncle -[3394.24 --> 3395.12] Who was the foreman -[3395.12 --> 3395.66] At the time -[3395.66 --> 3397.32] Is just laughing -[3397.32 --> 3398.30] Away -[3398.30 --> 3400.74] Looking at me -[3400.74 --> 3401.84] Shaking his head -[3401.84 --> 3403.62] He goes -[3403.62 --> 3403.92] Chris -[3403.92 --> 3404.92] What are you doing? -[3405.38 --> 3405.56] I'm like -[3405.56 --> 3406.14] I don't know -[3406.14 --> 3407.36] It's your job -[3407.36 --> 3408.04] You're supposed -[3408.04 --> 3408.90] To teach me this -[3408.90 --> 3410.34] He goes -[3410.34 --> 3410.58] Well -[3410.58 --> 3411.88] First of all -[3411.88 --> 3413.22] You're using -[3413.22 --> 3414.06] Your hammer wrong -[3414.06 --> 3415.56] Well -[3415.56 --> 3416.46] I know -[3416.46 --> 3416.86] That this is -[3416.86 --> 3416.98] How -[3416.98 --> 3418.80] This is good enough -[3418.80 --> 3419.44] Isn't it? -[3420.40 --> 3420.64] It's like -[3420.64 --> 3421.24] Well is it working? -[3422.46 --> 3422.90] No -[3422.90 --> 3424.16] Well then it's not -[3424.16 --> 3424.76] Good enough -[3424.76 --> 3425.18] Is it? -[3426.06 --> 3426.66] Fair point -[3426.66 --> 3427.48] Turns out -[3427.48 --> 3427.98] There's this thing -[3427.98 --> 3428.94] Called a palm nailer -[3428.94 --> 3429.56] You plug it into -[3429.56 --> 3430.22] An air compressor -[3430.22 --> 3430.76] And you just push -[3430.76 --> 3431.18] It on the nail -[3431.18 --> 3431.32] And it's -[3431.32 --> 3432.24] Done -[3432.24 --> 3433.16] Took about -[3433.16 --> 3433.84] Thirty seconds -[3433.84 --> 3434.64] Once he showed me -[3434.64 --> 3435.56] What it was to do -[3435.56 --> 3437.36] Why do I share -[3437.36 --> 3437.82] That story -[3437.82 --> 3438.66] As we come into this? -[3438.90 --> 3439.50] Introduction -[3439.50 --> 3441.96] There are times -[3441.96 --> 3442.76] And circumstances -[3442.76 --> 3443.70] And Paul is going to -[3443.70 --> 3444.76] Help us see that -[3444.76 --> 3445.28] Right? -[3445.36 --> 3446.72] Where in our life -[3446.72 --> 3447.38] We say -[3447.38 --> 3448.56] Good enough -[3448.56 --> 3450.70] And it's still -[3450.70 --> 3452.44] Not done right -[3452.44 --> 3453.76] Right? -[3453.80 --> 3454.76] Where we do the same thing -[3454.76 --> 3455.92] Over and over and over again -[3455.92 --> 3460.02] And we say -[3460.02 --> 3461.38] That should take care of it -[3461.38 --> 3463.30] And it's still -[3463.30 --> 3465.16] Not right -[3465.16 --> 3466.82] Hold that image -[3466.82 --> 3466.84] Hold that image -[3466.84 --> 3467.46] In your mind -[3467.46 --> 3468.32] As we read -[3468.32 --> 3469.60] Romans 2 -[3469.60 --> 3471.06] 1-16 -[3471.06 --> 3477.20] You therefore -[3477.20 --> 3479.32] Have no excuse -[3479.32 --> 3481.60] You who pass judgment -[3481.60 --> 3483.38] On someone else -[3483.38 --> 3485.20] For at whatever point -[3485.20 --> 3486.24] You judge another -[3486.24 --> 3488.04] You are condemning yourself -[3488.04 --> 3490.52] Because you who pass judgment -[3490.52 --> 3492.84] Do the same things -[3492.84 --> 3494.64] Now we know -[3494.64 --> 3495.66] That God's judgment -[3495.66 --> 3496.54] Against those -[3496.54 --> 3497.58] Who do such things -[3497.58 --> 3498.84] Is based on truth -[3498.84 --> 3499.80] So when you -[3499.80 --> 3500.86] A mere human being -[3500.86 --> 3502.06] Pass judgment on them -[3502.06 --> 3503.84] And yet do the same things -[3503.84 --> 3504.84] Do you think -[3504.84 --> 3505.54] You will escape -[3505.54 --> 3506.28] God's judgment? -[3507.28 --> 3508.60] Or do you show -[3508.60 --> 3509.24] Contempt -[3509.24 --> 3510.34] For the riches -[3510.34 --> 3511.46] Of his kindness -[3511.46 --> 3512.30] Forbearance -[3512.30 --> 3512.88] And patience -[3512.88 --> 3514.22] Not realizing -[3514.22 --> 3515.50] That God's kindness -[3515.50 --> 3516.34] Is intended -[3516.34 --> 3517.44] To lead you -[3517.44 --> 3518.30] To repentance -[3518.30 --> 3521.92] But because of -[3521.92 --> 3523.02] Your stubbornness -[3523.02 --> 3524.42] And your unrepentant heart -[3524.42 --> 3526.00] You are storing up -[3526.00 --> 3526.78] Wrath -[3526.78 --> 3527.86] Against yourself -[3527.86 --> 3528.82] For the day -[3528.82 --> 3530.18] Of God's wrath -[3530.18 --> 3531.70] When his righteous judgment -[3531.70 --> 3532.56] Will be revealed -[3532.56 --> 3535.58] God will repay -[3535.58 --> 3536.42] Each person -[3536.42 --> 3537.34] According to what -[3537.34 --> 3537.90] They have done -[3537.90 --> 3539.30] To those -[3539.30 --> 3540.50] Who by persistence -[3540.50 --> 3541.60] In doing good -[3541.60 --> 3542.48] Seek glory -[3542.48 --> 3543.10] Honor -[3543.10 --> 3544.30] And immortality -[3544.30 --> 3545.94] He will give -[3545.94 --> 3546.80] Eternal life -[3546.80 --> 3548.68] But for those -[3548.68 --> 3550.06] Who are self-seeking -[3550.06 --> 3551.20] And who reject the truth -[3551.20 --> 3552.08] And who follow evil -[3552.08 --> 3553.34] There will be wrath -[3553.34 --> 3553.96] And anger -[3553.96 --> 3556.26] There will be trouble -[3556.26 --> 3557.00] And distress -[3557.00 --> 3558.54] For every human being -[3558.54 --> 3559.38] Who does evil -[3559.38 --> 3560.64] First for the Jew -[3560.64 --> 3561.92] Then for the Gentile -[3561.92 --> 3563.30] But glory -[3563.30 --> 3563.62] Honor -[3563.62 --> 3564.18] And peace -[3564.18 --> 3564.92] For everyone -[3564.92 --> 3566.02] Who does good -[3566.02 --> 3567.08] First for the Jew -[3567.08 --> 3568.62] Then for the Gentile -[3568.62 --> 3570.16] For God does not -[3570.16 --> 3571.48] Show favoritism -[3571.48 --> 3573.80] All who sin -[3573.80 --> 3575.18] Apart from the law -[3575.18 --> 3576.30] Will also perish -[3576.30 --> 3577.60] Apart from the law -[3577.60 --> 3578.34] And all who sin -[3578.34 --> 3579.28] Under the law -[3579.28 --> 3580.38] Will be judged -[3580.38 --> 3581.62] By the law -[3581.62 --> 3582.92] For it is not -[3582.92 --> 3584.34] Those who hear the law -[3584.34 --> 3585.44] Who are righteous -[3585.44 --> 3586.28] In God's sight -[3586.28 --> 3586.82] But it is those -[3586.82 --> 3588.12] Who obey the law -[3588.12 --> 3589.06] Who are declared -[3589.06 --> 3590.02] Righteous -[3590.02 --> 3591.46] Indeed -[3591.46 --> 3592.90] When Gentiles -[3592.90 --> 3593.96] Who do not have the law -[3593.96 --> 3594.74] Do by nature -[3594.74 --> 3596.22] Things required by the law -[3596.22 --> 3597.16] They are a law -[3597.16 --> 3598.00] Unto themselves -[3598.00 --> 3598.96] Even though -[3598.96 --> 3600.14] They do not have the law -[3600.14 --> 3601.66] They show -[3601.66 --> 3602.46] That the requirements -[3602.46 --> 3603.20] Of the law -[3603.20 --> 3604.48] Are written on their hearts -[3604.48 --> 3605.66] Their consciences -[3605.66 --> 3606.82] Also bearing witness -[3606.82 --> 3608.84] And their thoughts -[3608.84 --> 3610.52] Sometimes accuse them -[3610.52 --> 3612.04] And at other times -[3612.04 --> 3613.24] Even defending them -[3613.24 --> 3615.58] This will take place -[3615.58 --> 3616.16] On the day -[3616.16 --> 3617.24] When God judges -[3617.24 --> 3618.22] People's secrets -[3618.22 --> 3619.66] Through Jesus Christ -[3619.66 --> 3622.18] As my gospel declares -[3622.18 --> 3624.60] This is the word of the Lord -[3624.60 --> 3630.18] Now -[3630.18 --> 3633.24] Probably don't have to -[3633.24 --> 3634.44] Tell you this -[3634.44 --> 3636.30] But for clarity's sake -[3636.30 --> 3637.62] That we live -[3637.62 --> 3638.62] In a time -[3638.62 --> 3639.70] And a place -[3639.70 --> 3641.20] That tells us -[3641.20 --> 3641.78] Generally -[3641.78 --> 3643.20] That good enough -[3643.20 --> 3644.76] Is good enough -[3644.76 --> 3647.44] What we will see -[3647.44 --> 3648.14] In the letter -[3648.14 --> 3649.04] To the Romans -[3649.04 --> 3649.74] Today -[3649.74 --> 3651.96] Is that good enough -[3651.96 --> 3653.16] Isn't -[3653.16 --> 3654.70] Good enough -[3654.70 --> 3656.22] Right -[3656.22 --> 3657.22] For all our -[3657.22 --> 3658.24] Religious effort -[3658.24 --> 3660.34] We need the gospel -[3660.34 --> 3662.42] Good enough -[3662.42 --> 3664.02] Isn't going to be -[3664.02 --> 3665.88] Good enough -[3665.88 --> 3667.90] Paul begins -[3667.90 --> 3668.76] In verse 1 -[3668.76 --> 3669.30] Of our text -[3669.30 --> 3671.14] He starts by saying -[3671.14 --> 3672.48] In one sentence -[3672.48 --> 3673.30] Almost what -[3673.30 --> 3674.52] Pastor Kevin said -[3674.52 --> 3675.68] Two weeks ago -[3675.68 --> 3676.46] He says -[3676.46 --> 3678.36] You have no excuse -[3678.36 --> 3679.74] You judge others -[3679.74 --> 3680.58] But fail -[3680.58 --> 3681.50] In another way -[3681.50 --> 3682.08] Right -[3682.08 --> 3683.80] At whatever point -[3683.80 --> 3684.74] You judge another -[3684.74 --> 3686.32] You are condemning yourself -[3686.32 --> 3687.40] Because you do -[3687.40 --> 3688.68] The same things -[3688.68 --> 3689.42] Now really quickly -[3689.42 --> 3689.72] Notice -[3689.72 --> 3690.06] He says -[3690.06 --> 3691.28] Same things -[3691.28 --> 3693.38] Not the same thing -[3693.38 --> 3695.10] Right -[3695.10 --> 3695.98] Paul isn't saying -[3695.98 --> 3696.86] That we all commit -[3696.86 --> 3698.18] The same sin -[3698.18 --> 3699.12] But he's saying -[3699.12 --> 3699.76] That we are all -[3699.76 --> 3701.32] Under sin -[3701.32 --> 3702.00] Right -[3702.00 --> 3702.98] We've all -[3702.98 --> 3703.98] And Kevin made this point -[3703.98 --> 3704.46] Really well -[3704.46 --> 3705.54] Suppressed the truth -[3705.54 --> 3706.98] Of God's revelation -[3706.98 --> 3708.22] We've all exchanged -[3708.22 --> 3709.18] God for some -[3709.18 --> 3710.38] Idolatry -[3710.38 --> 3711.54] And that shows up -[3711.54 --> 3712.18] In our lives -[3712.18 --> 3713.54] In big or small -[3713.54 --> 3716.12] In practical or impractical -[3716.12 --> 3718.22] In wicked and seemingly -[3718.22 --> 3719.92] Minor ways -[3719.92 --> 3720.62] Maybe even -[3720.62 --> 3723.14] In innocuous ways -[3723.14 --> 3727.32] The big picture point -[3727.32 --> 3728.94] That Paul I think -[3728.94 --> 3730.28] Wants us to see -[3730.28 --> 3731.32] In this letter -[3731.32 --> 3732.08] At this point -[3732.08 --> 3733.70] Is what do we do -[3733.70 --> 3735.74] When we realize -[3735.74 --> 3737.78] That truth -[3737.78 --> 3740.28] Right -[3740.28 --> 3740.88] It's the -[3740.88 --> 3742.74] Moralist -[3742.74 --> 3744.16] Among us -[3744.16 --> 3745.30] Who might say -[3745.30 --> 3747.24] That my stuff -[3747.24 --> 3748.36] Isn't so bad -[3748.36 --> 3749.96] Or -[3749.96 --> 3750.66] We might -[3750.66 --> 3751.98] Maybe we're more likely -[3751.98 --> 3752.30] To say -[3752.30 --> 3753.36] My stuff -[3753.36 --> 3754.16] Isn't as bad -[3754.16 --> 3755.98] As his stuff -[3755.98 --> 3757.46] Right -[3757.46 --> 3757.86] And we kind of -[3757.86 --> 3758.34] Look around -[3758.34 --> 3758.98] And as long as -[3758.98 --> 3759.52] There's someone -[3759.52 --> 3760.50] Worse than us -[3760.50 --> 3761.52] In our sort of sphere -[3761.52 --> 3762.10] We're like -[3762.10 --> 3762.30] Yeah -[3762.30 --> 3763.08] It's good enough -[3763.08 --> 3764.76] It's okay -[3764.76 --> 3767.12] It's the religious -[3767.12 --> 3768.04] Moralist -[3768.04 --> 3768.54] Who says -[3768.54 --> 3769.36] You know -[3769.36 --> 3770.22] I just need to do -[3770.22 --> 3770.98] A little bit better -[3770.98 --> 3772.50] I just need to avoid -[3772.50 --> 3773.90] The really bad stuff -[3773.90 --> 3774.84] And then -[3774.84 --> 3776.62] Balance the scales -[3776.62 --> 3778.40] With some really good stuff -[3778.40 --> 3779.86] And it'll be okay -[3779.86 --> 3782.56] The religious point -[3782.56 --> 3783.58] That Paul is -[3783.58 --> 3784.48] Addressing -[3784.48 --> 3786.36] Is the one that says -[3786.36 --> 3787.20] God -[3787.20 --> 3788.22] God or the gods -[3788.22 --> 3788.84] Right -[3788.84 --> 3790.54] Want a good person -[3790.54 --> 3792.28] And if you do -[3792.28 --> 3793.28] The right things -[3793.28 --> 3795.08] You'll get the reward -[3795.08 --> 3797.12] Whatever that reward -[3797.12 --> 3797.52] Might be -[3797.52 --> 3798.34] Or however you might -[3798.34 --> 3799.08] Define that -[3799.08 --> 3801.36] Now this way of thinking -[3801.36 --> 3802.30] About life -[3802.30 --> 3803.02] In the world -[3803.02 --> 3803.50] And about -[3803.50 --> 3805.14] Relationship to God -[3805.14 --> 3805.96] Or not -[3805.96 --> 3807.30] Relationship in the world -[3807.30 --> 3808.46] Was common -[3808.46 --> 3809.68] In Paul's day -[3809.68 --> 3810.50] And really -[3810.50 --> 3811.32] It continues -[3811.32 --> 3812.24] Through -[3812.24 --> 3813.14] Into today -[3813.14 --> 3815.12] The idea is -[3815.12 --> 3816.12] That if you do good -[3816.12 --> 3817.44] You will be blessed -[3817.44 --> 3818.76] Right -[3818.76 --> 3819.80] If you do the right thing -[3819.80 --> 3821.26] You'll get good things -[3821.26 --> 3822.98] And there's actually -[3822.98 --> 3824.94] A religious version -[3824.94 --> 3826.28] Of this idea -[3826.28 --> 3827.36] Right -[3827.36 --> 3828.78] Have you ever heard -[3828.78 --> 3829.54] Someone say -[3829.54 --> 3831.40] Maybe it's a friend -[3831.40 --> 3831.98] At school -[3831.98 --> 3833.72] Maybe it's one of your kids -[3833.72 --> 3834.54] Or someone you work with -[3834.54 --> 3835.06] But they say -[3835.06 --> 3836.04] Something like -[3836.04 --> 3837.70] You know -[3837.70 --> 3840.06] I don't really need -[3840.06 --> 3841.44] Church in my life -[3841.44 --> 3842.32] To be good -[3842.32 --> 3844.36] I can just be good -[3844.36 --> 3845.38] Right -[3845.38 --> 3846.38] I don't need to believe -[3846.38 --> 3846.98] In God -[3846.98 --> 3848.90] To be a moral person -[3848.90 --> 3849.76] I can just be -[3849.76 --> 3850.72] A moral person -[3850.72 --> 3852.42] Right -[3852.42 --> 3853.50] I'm calling that -[3853.50 --> 3854.32] Idea -[3854.32 --> 3855.74] A religious version -[3855.74 --> 3856.28] Of this -[3856.28 --> 3857.64] Because behind it -[3857.64 --> 3858.48] There's this almost -[3858.48 --> 3860.38] Dogmatic assumption -[3860.38 --> 3861.52] Right -[3861.52 --> 3861.94] There's this -[3861.94 --> 3863.08] Faith claim -[3863.08 --> 3864.12] That -[3864.12 --> 3864.72] You know -[3864.72 --> 3865.54] Being a quote -[3865.54 --> 3866.66] Good person -[3866.66 --> 3867.72] Is the point -[3867.72 --> 3868.18] Of it all -[3868.18 --> 3870.78] And this is pretty -[3870.78 --> 3871.60] Comprehensive in our -[3871.60 --> 3872.36] Society today -[3872.36 --> 3872.98] In fact -[3872.98 --> 3874.62] A few years ago -[3874.62 --> 3876.62] There was a -[3876.62 --> 3878.08] Study done by -[3878.08 --> 3878.86] A group of -[3878.86 --> 3880.26] Social scientists -[3880.26 --> 3881.50] Of -[3881.50 --> 3883.28] Primarily young people -[3883.28 --> 3883.92] People in their -[3883.92 --> 3884.78] Early twenties -[3884.78 --> 3887.86] And the -[3887.86 --> 3888.94] Study was published -[3888.94 --> 3889.80] Under the title -[3889.80 --> 3891.06] Of renegotiating faith -[3891.06 --> 3892.36] But they're trying -[3892.36 --> 3893.60] To engage in this -[3893.60 --> 3894.60] Demographic -[3894.60 --> 3895.54] Of society -[3895.54 --> 3896.52] That is increasingly -[3896.52 --> 3897.76] Dominated by -[3897.76 --> 3899.68] Post-Christian ideas -[3899.68 --> 3900.98] Or living in the -[3900.98 --> 3901.86] Midst of post-Christian -[3901.86 --> 3902.32] Ideas -[3902.32 --> 3903.70] And that study -[3903.70 --> 3904.74] Found that many -[3904.74 --> 3906.46] Young Canadian people -[3906.46 --> 3908.36] Live with an idea -[3908.36 --> 3909.68] That these sociologists -[3909.68 --> 3910.92] Summarized as -[3910.92 --> 3912.90] U-G-R-E -[3912.90 --> 3916.14] It's phonetically -[3916.14 --> 3916.56] Incorrect -[3916.56 --> 3917.14] But I just call it -[3917.14 --> 3917.44] Ogre -[3917.44 --> 3918.20] Because it's easier -[3918.20 --> 3918.72] To remember -[3918.72 --> 3921.32] But U-G-R-E -[3921.32 --> 3922.00] Stands for -[3922.00 --> 3923.48] Universal Gnostic -[3923.48 --> 3925.02] Religious Ethic -[3925.02 --> 3926.92] Now they call it -[3926.92 --> 3927.46] Universal -[3927.46 --> 3929.04] Because there is -[3929.04 --> 3929.80] An idea -[3929.80 --> 3930.44] And a belief -[3930.44 --> 3931.60] That behind all -[3931.60 --> 3932.54] Religions -[3932.54 --> 3933.80] And something -[3933.80 --> 3934.62] That all people -[3934.62 --> 3935.50] Share -[3935.50 --> 3936.34] Is the truth -[3936.34 --> 3937.16] That religions -[3937.16 --> 3938.32] Ultimately serve -[3938.32 --> 3939.72] A social -[3939.72 --> 3942.10] And psychological -[3942.10 --> 3943.16] Function -[3943.16 --> 3945.70] Now they call it -[3945.70 --> 3946.16] Gnostic -[3946.16 --> 3948.06] Because behind it -[3948.06 --> 3948.58] All is this -[3948.58 --> 3949.28] Belief -[3949.28 --> 3950.82] About or an idea -[3950.82 --> 3952.16] That this truth -[3952.16 --> 3952.84] This way -[3952.84 --> 3953.48] Of seeing -[3953.48 --> 3954.08] And being -[3954.08 --> 3954.78] In the world -[3954.78 --> 3955.94] Is a truth -[3955.94 --> 3956.96] That this current -[3956.96 --> 3957.56] Generation -[3957.56 --> 3958.70] Of twenty-somethings -[3958.70 --> 3959.74] Has discovered -[3959.74 --> 3960.62] To be true -[3960.62 --> 3961.68] And that this new -[3961.68 --> 3962.36] Way of seeing -[3962.36 --> 3962.96] The world -[3962.96 --> 3964.06] Has never existed -[3964.06 --> 3964.50] Before -[3964.50 --> 3965.86] It's a special -[3965.86 --> 3966.40] Knowledge -[3966.40 --> 3967.74] Now anyone -[3967.74 --> 3968.12] Anyone who knows -[3968.12 --> 3968.66] Church history -[3968.66 --> 3969.28] Might challenge -[3969.28 --> 3969.80] That assumption -[3969.80 --> 3970.30] But anyway -[3970.30 --> 3970.94] There it is -[3970.94 --> 3971.96] Right -[3971.96 --> 3972.52] And the -[3972.52 --> 3973.60] The kicker here -[3973.60 --> 3974.18] Is that -[3974.18 --> 3975.36] This is something -[3975.36 --> 3977.44] That this generation -[3977.44 --> 3980.68] Believes -[3980.68 --> 3982.58] That their parents -[3982.58 --> 3983.92] Will never understand -[3983.92 --> 3984.28] That -[3984.28 --> 3986.62] That this is a special -[3986.62 --> 3987.36] Thing that they -[3987.36 --> 3987.96] Have learned -[3987.96 --> 3988.84] Or discovered -[3988.84 --> 3989.50] About how to be -[3989.50 --> 3990.06] And function -[3990.06 --> 3991.20] In the world -[3991.20 --> 3994.16] Now it's religious -[3994.16 --> 3994.94] Right -[3994.94 --> 3995.56] Because it -[3995.56 --> 3996.72] It still finds -[3996.72 --> 3997.24] A way -[3997.24 --> 3997.96] To relate -[3997.96 --> 3998.62] To a higher -[3998.62 --> 3999.20] Power -[3999.20 --> 4000.26] And here -[4000.26 --> 4000.66] You're getting -[4000.66 --> 4001.16] The language -[4001.16 --> 4001.70] Of a more -[4001.70 --> 4002.78] General spirituality -[4002.78 --> 4003.54] But there's also -[4003.54 --> 4004.80] Even an active -[4004.80 --> 4005.36] Magic -[4005.36 --> 4006.74] That exists -[4006.74 --> 4007.78] In the world -[4007.78 --> 4009.78] And that historical -[4009.78 --> 4010.76] Institutional -[4010.76 --> 4011.48] Religion -[4011.48 --> 4013.56] Is cast off -[4013.56 --> 4014.52] Because it has -[4014.52 --> 4015.48] Limited this -[4015.48 --> 4016.66] Expression -[4016.66 --> 4018.02] And then -[4018.02 --> 4018.62] At the end -[4018.62 --> 4019.12] Of Ogre -[4019.12 --> 4019.54] It's called -[4019.54 --> 4020.04] An ethic -[4020.04 --> 4021.14] Because it's about -[4021.14 --> 4022.26] Good social -[4022.26 --> 4022.92] Behavior -[4022.92 --> 4023.68] Culminating -[4023.68 --> 4024.38] In a concept -[4024.38 --> 4025.52] Of absolute -[4025.52 --> 4027.08] Social tolerance -[4027.08 --> 4030.18] And what you hear -[4030.18 --> 4030.70] I hope -[4030.70 --> 4031.92] Tying all of this -[4031.92 --> 4032.38] Together -[4032.38 --> 4033.92] Is the idea -[4033.92 --> 4034.44] About -[4034.44 --> 4036.54] How each one -[4036.54 --> 4037.72] Does good -[4037.72 --> 4038.54] Right -[4038.54 --> 4039.60] And is called -[4039.60 --> 4040.78] To be good -[4040.78 --> 4041.72] For the betterment -[4041.72 --> 4042.54] Of society -[4042.54 --> 4043.14] That becomes -[4043.14 --> 4044.04] The purpose -[4044.04 --> 4045.18] Of everything -[4045.18 --> 4047.60] Right -[4047.60 --> 4048.40] Do good -[4048.40 --> 4049.58] And be good -[4049.58 --> 4050.42] And don't hurt -[4050.42 --> 4050.80] Others -[4050.80 --> 4052.82] Now don't hear -[4052.82 --> 4053.48] What I'm not saying -[4053.48 --> 4054.32] Because I want you -[4054.32 --> 4054.84] To do good -[4054.84 --> 4055.44] And be good -[4055.44 --> 4056.10] And don't hurt -[4056.10 --> 4056.48] Others -[4056.48 --> 4058.22] Okay -[4058.22 --> 4058.92] Those are good -[4058.92 --> 4060.02] Values -[4060.02 --> 4060.58] The desire -[4060.58 --> 4061.50] To love others -[4061.50 --> 4062.08] The desire -[4062.08 --> 4063.62] To love our neighbor -[4063.62 --> 4064.42] As ourselves -[4064.42 --> 4064.96] The desire -[4064.96 --> 4065.58] To care -[4065.58 --> 4066.46] For the least -[4066.46 --> 4066.82] Of these -[4066.82 --> 4067.66] And the marginalized -[4067.66 --> 4068.84] Are deeply -[4068.84 --> 4069.88] Good -[4069.88 --> 4070.62] Good -[4070.62 --> 4071.90] Values -[4071.90 --> 4073.88] Right -[4073.88 --> 4074.64] And ultimately -[4074.64 --> 4075.70] It's -[4075.70 --> 4075.90] It's -[4075.90 --> 4078.88] It's what we are -[4078.88 --> 4081.04] Called to live -[4081.04 --> 4081.34] In -[4081.34 --> 4082.36] Into the direction -[4082.36 --> 4083.40] Of and towards -[4083.40 --> 4084.40] Words -[4084.40 --> 4086.02] But to make -[4086.02 --> 4086.98] Ultimate -[4086.98 --> 4088.84] Something that is -[4088.84 --> 4089.72] Supposed to be -[4089.72 --> 4090.72] A consequence -[4090.72 --> 4092.48] Of relationship -[4092.48 --> 4093.34] To the ultimate -[4093.34 --> 4095.12] Is where we start -[4095.12 --> 4095.74] Going awry -[4095.74 --> 4097.52] Right -[4097.52 --> 4098.52] In fact -[4098.52 --> 4100.60] What's likely -[4100.60 --> 4101.06] To happen -[4101.06 --> 4101.74] When you do -[4101.74 --> 4102.42] That is to get -[4102.42 --> 4102.96] The inverse -[4102.96 --> 4103.44] Of what you -[4103.44 --> 4103.96] Would expect -[4103.96 --> 4105.72] So to say -[4105.72 --> 4105.98] That -[4105.98 --> 4106.76] Well we hope -[4106.76 --> 4107.40] For social -[4107.40 --> 4108.18] Tolerance -[4108.18 --> 4109.48] When we begin -[4109.48 --> 4110.24] To equate -[4110.24 --> 4111.08] What you do -[4111.08 --> 4111.96] With who you -[4111.96 --> 4112.44] Are -[4112.44 --> 4113.38] We actually -[4113.38 --> 4113.98] End up with -[4113.98 --> 4115.26] An intolerant -[4115.26 --> 4115.80] Society -[4115.80 --> 4116.62] Because you -[4116.62 --> 4117.32] Affirm -[4117.32 --> 4118.34] Or unless -[4118.34 --> 4119.02] You affirm -[4119.02 --> 4119.84] What I do -[4119.84 --> 4120.64] You're denying -[4120.64 --> 4121.56] Who I am -[4121.56 --> 4123.10] And that's -[4123.10 --> 4123.76] Unacceptable -[4123.76 --> 4124.92] That's the -[4124.92 --> 4125.56] Unforgivable -[4125.56 --> 4126.38] Sin of the -[4126.38 --> 4127.32] 21st century -[4127.32 --> 4128.34] Modern world -[4128.34 --> 4130.66] And as we -[4130.66 --> 4131.32] Look at this -[4131.32 --> 4131.94] Religious -[4131.94 --> 4132.80] Assumption -[4132.80 --> 4133.68] About what it -[4133.68 --> 4134.26] Means to do -[4134.26 --> 4134.86] Good in the -[4134.86 --> 4135.20] World -[4135.20 --> 4136.08] And as we -[4136.08 --> 4136.48] Do so -[4136.48 --> 4137.04] Critically -[4137.04 --> 4138.30] I need you -[4138.30 --> 4138.78] To see -[4138.78 --> 4139.56] That there's -[4139.56 --> 4140.62] Actually something -[4140.62 --> 4141.58] Deeper -[4141.58 --> 4142.36] That's going -[4142.36 --> 4142.86] On here -[4142.86 --> 4143.40] That this is -[4143.40 --> 4144.46] Actually based -[4144.46 --> 4144.82] On -[4144.82 --> 4145.70] I want to -[4145.70 --> 4146.38] Suggest to you -[4146.38 --> 4147.04] That Paul's -[4147.04 --> 4147.62] Point or -[4147.62 --> 4148.52] Part of Paul's -[4148.52 --> 4149.02] Point the -[4149.02 --> 4149.72] Foundation here -[4149.72 --> 4151.10] In Romans 2 -[4151.10 --> 4151.92] Is this -[4151.92 --> 4152.50] Deeper -[4152.50 --> 4153.12] Thing -[4153.12 --> 4154.06] And so look -[4154.06 --> 4154.38] At what he -[4154.38 --> 4154.64] Writes -[4154.64 --> 4154.98] Look at -[4154.98 --> 4155.88] Verse 7 -[4155.88 --> 4158.32] He says -[4158.32 --> 4159.84] To those -[4159.84 --> 4160.36] Who by -[4160.36 --> 4161.12] Persistence -[4161.12 --> 4161.60] In doing -[4161.60 --> 4161.92] Good -[4161.92 --> 4162.56] Seek glory -[4162.56 --> 4162.86] Honor -[4162.86 --> 4163.66] And immortality -[4163.66 --> 4164.18] He will -[4164.18 --> 4165.12] Give eternal -[4165.12 --> 4165.90] Life -[4165.90 --> 4166.92] Look at -[4166.92 --> 4167.40] Verse 10 -[4167.40 --> 4168.32] Glory -[4168.32 --> 4168.68] Honor -[4168.68 --> 4169.32] And peace -[4169.32 --> 4170.30] For everyone -[4170.30 --> 4171.06] Who does -[4171.06 --> 4171.86] Good -[4171.86 --> 4172.66] Right -[4172.66 --> 4172.92] And then -[4172.92 --> 4173.72] Verse 14 -[4173.72 --> 4174.66] He continues -[4174.66 --> 4174.98] He says -[4174.98 --> 4175.72] When Gentiles -[4175.72 --> 4176.18] Who do not -[4176.18 --> 4176.80] Have the law -[4176.80 --> 4177.48] By nature -[4177.48 --> 4179.12] Do the things -[4179.12 --> 4180.20] Required by the law -[4180.20 --> 4181.08] They are a law -[4181.08 --> 4181.82] Unto themselves -[4181.82 --> 4182.38] Even though they -[4182.38 --> 4183.14] Don't have the law -[4183.14 --> 4184.14] Here this is the -[4184.14 --> 4184.92] Important part -[4184.92 --> 4186.00] They show that -[4186.00 --> 4186.58] The requirements -[4186.58 --> 4187.24] Of the law -[4187.24 --> 4187.70] Are written -[4187.70 --> 4188.68] On their hearts -[4188.68 --> 4189.48] And their consciences -[4189.48 --> 4190.48] Also bear witness -[4190.48 --> 4191.20] In their thoughts -[4191.20 --> 4192.28] Sometimes accusing them -[4192.28 --> 4193.26] And at other times -[4193.26 --> 4194.00] Defending them -[4194.00 --> 4194.90] Point is -[4194.90 --> 4195.76] There's something -[4195.76 --> 4197.12] To this idea -[4197.12 --> 4199.02] Of having to do good -[4199.02 --> 4201.06] In order to get good -[4201.06 --> 4202.60] Or to get the reward -[4202.60 --> 4204.44] I suggest to you -[4204.44 --> 4205.60] That this way -[4205.60 --> 4206.82] Of seeing and being -[4206.82 --> 4207.54] In the world -[4207.54 --> 4209.28] Goes all the way back -[4209.28 --> 4210.62] In biblical theology -[4210.62 --> 4211.56] To what we call -[4211.56 --> 4212.84] The covenant of works -[4212.84 --> 4215.06] Now the covenant of works -[4215.06 --> 4216.64] That really frames -[4216.64 --> 4218.32] Or is the relational frame -[4218.32 --> 4219.70] For how we understand -[4219.70 --> 4221.16] God's relationship -[4221.16 --> 4221.84] To humanity -[4221.84 --> 4223.12] Before the fall -[4223.12 --> 4224.18] Right before Adam -[4224.18 --> 4224.96] And Eve's rebellion -[4224.96 --> 4225.92] In the garden -[4225.92 --> 4228.06] Right the covenant of works -[4228.06 --> 4230.92] Exists in relationship -[4230.92 --> 4231.38] To God -[4231.38 --> 4232.46] To say this is how -[4232.46 --> 4233.58] You must be -[4233.58 --> 4234.60] In the world -[4234.60 --> 4235.88] Right Adam and Eve -[4235.88 --> 4236.66] Had to -[4236.66 --> 4238.74] They were given commands -[4238.74 --> 4239.58] To do things -[4239.58 --> 4240.38] And to obey them -[4240.38 --> 4241.02] To be holy -[4241.02 --> 4242.04] And to work out -[4242.04 --> 4242.82] Their relationship -[4242.82 --> 4243.50] To God -[4243.50 --> 4245.74] And that first relationship -[4245.74 --> 4247.64] Was contingent upon -[4247.64 --> 4248.76] And its continuance -[4248.76 --> 4249.84] Was contingent upon -[4249.84 --> 4250.88] Being obedient -[4250.88 --> 4251.72] On obeying -[4251.72 --> 4253.28] On doing good -[4253.28 --> 4254.04] On working -[4254.04 --> 4256.38] Now obviously -[4256.38 --> 4257.40] If you have -[4257.40 --> 4258.66] Opened your Bible -[4258.66 --> 4259.80] You'll know that -[4259.80 --> 4261.04] They failed at that -[4261.04 --> 4261.92] Right -[4261.92 --> 4263.50] Humanity rebelled -[4263.50 --> 4265.20] We rebelled -[4265.20 --> 4267.14] Against this relational frame -[4267.14 --> 4268.44] This covenant of works -[4268.44 --> 4269.40] That was part of God's -[4269.40 --> 4270.24] Design for the world -[4270.24 --> 4271.56] And we chose otherwise -[4271.56 --> 4274.16] And so in response -[4274.16 --> 4275.12] To our rebellion -[4275.12 --> 4276.20] God begins -[4276.20 --> 4277.04] Or enters into -[4277.04 --> 4278.62] A new relational frame -[4278.62 --> 4279.22] With his people -[4279.22 --> 4279.88] And we call that -[4279.88 --> 4281.18] The covenant of grace -[4281.18 --> 4282.94] And so now -[4282.94 --> 4284.02] Because of the fall -[4284.02 --> 4285.40] We relate to God -[4285.40 --> 4286.78] Through the covenant of grace -[4286.78 --> 4287.80] Where he keeps -[4287.80 --> 4289.00] The covenant promises -[4289.00 --> 4290.62] Where he provides -[4290.62 --> 4291.66] The obedience -[4291.66 --> 4292.74] Where he saves -[4292.74 --> 4293.88] Without merit -[4293.88 --> 4297.98] Today -[4297.98 --> 4299.78] We live in -[4299.78 --> 4300.80] And operate -[4300.80 --> 4302.14] In this new reality -[4302.14 --> 4303.72] In this new relationship -[4303.72 --> 4305.20] And relational frame -[4305.20 --> 4307.18] This new covenant of grace -[4307.18 --> 4309.28] And what I'm suggesting -[4309.28 --> 4313.14] Is that part of the impulse -[4313.14 --> 4314.66] Part of the religious -[4314.66 --> 4320.14] And anthropological source -[4320.14 --> 4321.04] Or root -[4321.04 --> 4323.32] Of why we continue to believe -[4323.32 --> 4325.02] And work out of this idea -[4325.02 --> 4326.12] That doing good -[4326.12 --> 4327.64] Makes us worthy of reward -[4327.64 --> 4328.44] Is in fact -[4328.44 --> 4328.46] Is in fact -[4328.46 --> 4329.76] A vestige -[4329.76 --> 4331.12] Of the covenant -[4331.12 --> 4332.04] Of works -[4332.04 --> 4333.76] That still persists -[4333.76 --> 4334.78] In the human psyche -[4334.78 --> 4336.48] Right -[4336.48 --> 4337.56] We like rules -[4337.56 --> 4339.10] Right -[4339.10 --> 4340.08] Rules make sense -[4340.08 --> 4340.68] Of the world -[4340.68 --> 4341.98] They provide -[4341.98 --> 4343.62] A frame for understanding -[4343.62 --> 4344.90] And for our functioning -[4344.90 --> 4345.42] In the world -[4345.42 --> 4346.94] Rules and laws -[4346.94 --> 4348.16] And morals -[4348.16 --> 4350.34] Are also for us -[4350.34 --> 4350.92] A means -[4350.92 --> 4352.18] By which we exercise -[4352.18 --> 4352.64] Control -[4352.64 --> 4353.20] Control -[4353.20 --> 4354.22] Over the environments -[4354.22 --> 4355.36] We find ourselves in -[4355.36 --> 4356.60] Right -[4356.60 --> 4357.68] As long as I do this -[4357.68 --> 4358.74] And don't do that -[4358.74 --> 4359.78] I'm good -[4359.78 --> 4362.04] If I just do this -[4362.04 --> 4363.44] And just do that -[4363.44 --> 4364.36] I'll be good -[4364.36 --> 4366.84] And right there -[4366.84 --> 4367.80] Right -[4367.80 --> 4369.24] We don't even mean -[4369.24 --> 4370.56] That we will get heaven -[4370.56 --> 4371.34] Or have to mean -[4371.34 --> 4372.06] That we get heaven -[4372.06 --> 4373.08] Or whatever we want -[4373.08 --> 4373.80] The idea is that -[4373.80 --> 4375.40] As long as I'm basically good -[4375.40 --> 4376.28] Or really -[4376.28 --> 4377.06] What we mean is -[4377.06 --> 4378.52] As long as I'm more good -[4378.52 --> 4379.56] Than I am bad -[4379.56 --> 4381.96] Good things will come my way -[4381.96 --> 4384.74] Now here's -[4384.74 --> 4386.36] Something important -[4386.36 --> 4387.12] For us to see -[4387.12 --> 4388.22] Because I think -[4388.22 --> 4389.20] This is a sort of -[4389.20 --> 4392.40] I tried really hard -[4392.40 --> 4392.86] To come up with -[4392.86 --> 4393.30] A different way -[4393.30 --> 4394.04] Of expressing this -[4394.04 --> 4395.02] And apologies -[4395.02 --> 4396.04] And we can talk after -[4396.04 --> 4397.30] This is a sort of -[4397.30 --> 4398.46] Bastardized covenant -[4398.46 --> 4399.02] Of works -[4399.02 --> 4401.18] That's what we've done -[4401.18 --> 4402.48] Where it's not about -[4402.48 --> 4403.34] Perfection -[4403.34 --> 4405.28] But it's about effort -[4405.28 --> 4407.34] Right -[4407.34 --> 4407.94] Right -[4407.94 --> 4409.94] You deserve good things -[4409.94 --> 4412.12] You deserve heaven -[4412.12 --> 4413.58] You deserve blessing -[4413.58 --> 4414.64] And in the world today -[4414.64 --> 4415.74] Because we believe that -[4415.74 --> 4416.96] We've turned back -[4416.96 --> 4418.10] The idea of the covenant -[4418.10 --> 4418.54] Of works -[4418.54 --> 4419.46] And we've changed -[4419.46 --> 4420.44] The standard -[4420.44 --> 4421.86] From absolute perfection -[4421.86 --> 4423.40] From absolute obedience -[4423.40 --> 4425.06] From God's holiness -[4425.06 --> 4425.64] Right -[4425.64 --> 4428.06] In 1 John 1 verse 5 -[4428.06 --> 4428.40] We read -[4428.40 --> 4429.80] God is true light -[4429.80 --> 4430.42] Of true light -[4430.42 --> 4431.36] In him there is -[4431.36 --> 4433.04] No darkness at all -[4433.04 --> 4433.78] Right -[4433.78 --> 4434.66] In Leviticus -[4434.66 --> 4435.58] And in 1 Peter -[4435.58 --> 4436.10] It's repeated -[4436.10 --> 4437.54] We read that God is -[4437.54 --> 4439.18] Absolute moral perfection -[4439.18 --> 4439.82] It says that -[4439.82 --> 4440.76] God says -[4440.76 --> 4441.66] Be holy -[4441.66 --> 4443.82] Because I am holy -[4443.82 --> 4444.68] In Matthew 5 -[4444.68 --> 4445.40] Jesus says -[4445.40 --> 4446.78] You must be perfect -[4446.78 --> 4448.20] As your heavenly father -[4448.20 --> 4449.34] Is perfect -[4449.34 --> 4450.62] The standard -[4450.62 --> 4451.36] Right -[4451.36 --> 4452.20] In the Bible -[4452.20 --> 4453.22] Is perfection -[4453.22 --> 4455.74] But we have changed it -[4455.74 --> 4457.34] Right -[4457.34 --> 4458.76] In Psalm 11 7 -[4458.76 --> 4459.50] We read -[4459.50 --> 4460.62] The Lord is righteous -[4460.62 --> 4461.86] And he loves -[4461.86 --> 4463.52] Righteous deeds -[4463.52 --> 4464.96] And Ezra 9 15 -[4464.96 --> 4465.92] Puts it plainly -[4465.92 --> 4466.64] And straight forward -[4466.64 --> 4467.80] Oh Lord God of Israel -[4467.80 --> 4469.12] You are righteous -[4469.12 --> 4470.50] No one -[4470.50 --> 4472.38] Can stand before you -[4472.38 --> 4475.02] We've changed -[4475.02 --> 4475.80] The standard -[4475.80 --> 4477.32] Of absolute perfection -[4477.32 --> 4478.10] And holiness -[4478.10 --> 4478.98] To -[4478.98 --> 4480.60] Just do your best -[4480.60 --> 4482.74] And it'll be okay -[4482.74 --> 4485.60] And what we really mean -[4485.60 --> 4486.28] And I've said it -[4486.28 --> 4486.48] Right -[4486.48 --> 4488.14] Is just don't do your worst -[4488.14 --> 4490.08] Right -[4490.08 --> 4490.94] We've neutered -[4490.94 --> 4491.94] The covenant of works -[4491.94 --> 4493.22] Because like Paul says -[4493.22 --> 4494.48] Earlier in this letter -[4494.48 --> 4496.14] We continue to suppress -[4496.14 --> 4497.38] The truth of God -[4497.38 --> 4498.86] We continue to exchange -[4498.86 --> 4499.72] The truth of God -[4499.72 --> 4500.74] For substitutes -[4500.74 --> 4501.76] That in the end -[4501.76 --> 4502.98] Look kind of like -[4502.98 --> 4504.10] Idealized versions -[4504.10 --> 4504.84] Of ourselves -[4504.84 --> 4505.84] And we end -[4505.84 --> 4507.46] In bowing to temples -[4507.46 --> 4508.30] Or in the temples -[4508.30 --> 4509.00] Of Instagram -[4509.00 --> 4510.02] And TikTok -[4510.02 --> 4511.04] To the lives -[4511.04 --> 4512.20] That we wish we had -[4512.20 --> 4513.54] We listen -[4513.54 --> 4514.24] At the feet -[4514.24 --> 4515.74] Of modern prophets -[4515.74 --> 4516.56] And priests -[4516.56 --> 4517.50] Of culture -[4517.50 --> 4519.06] And the contemporary -[4519.06 --> 4519.76] Zeitgeist -[4519.76 --> 4520.30] That says -[4520.30 --> 4521.62] Only what our -[4521.62 --> 4522.48] Itching ears -[4522.48 --> 4523.14] Want to hear -[4523.14 --> 4525.74] In fact -[4525.74 --> 4526.44] That's exactly -[4526.44 --> 4527.42] What Paul says -[4527.42 --> 4528.48] Will happen -[4528.48 --> 4529.30] When he writes -[4529.30 --> 4530.34] To Timothy -[4530.34 --> 4532.02] In the second letter -[4532.02 --> 4533.30] To Timothy -[4533.30 --> 4534.42] Paul is writing -[4534.42 --> 4535.58] To his young -[4535.58 --> 4536.30] Protégé -[4536.30 --> 4537.12] Who he has left -[4537.12 --> 4537.68] In charge -[4537.68 --> 4538.52] As overseer -[4538.52 --> 4539.44] Of a group of churches -[4539.44 --> 4541.88] In the contemporary -[4541.88 --> 4543.24] And thoroughly -[4543.24 --> 4544.52] Pagan city -[4544.52 --> 4545.54] Of Ephesus -[4545.54 --> 4546.94] And he says -[4546.94 --> 4547.92] Paul writes to Timothy -[4547.92 --> 4548.32] He says -[4548.32 --> 4549.78] A time will come -[4549.78 --> 4550.54] When people -[4550.54 --> 4552.86] To suit their own desires -[4552.86 --> 4555.02] Will gather around them -[4555.02 --> 4556.62] A great number of teachers -[4556.62 --> 4557.70] Who say -[4557.70 --> 4559.44] What their itching ears -[4559.44 --> 4560.68] Want to hear -[4560.68 --> 4563.18] Now today -[4563.18 --> 4564.12] We call that -[4564.12 --> 4565.28] Confirmation bias -[4565.28 --> 4567.06] Today we call that -[4567.06 --> 4567.82] Echo chambers -[4567.82 --> 4569.14] And today -[4569.14 --> 4569.74] In fact -[4569.74 --> 4570.40] I would suggest -[4570.40 --> 4571.84] It's even more insidious -[4571.84 --> 4572.94] Because there is -[4572.94 --> 4573.58] An algorithm -[4573.58 --> 4574.84] That curates -[4574.84 --> 4577.20] Your feed -[4577.20 --> 4577.94] Right -[4577.94 --> 4579.16] That is capitalizing -[4579.16 --> 4580.78] On your rage bias -[4580.78 --> 4582.50] To keep you captivated -[4582.50 --> 4583.22] And to keep you -[4583.22 --> 4583.94] Clicking down -[4583.94 --> 4584.94] That rabbit hole -[4584.94 --> 4585.76] To confirm -[4585.76 --> 4586.34] The same thing -[4586.34 --> 4587.12] That your itching ears -[4587.12 --> 4587.90] Want to hear -[4587.90 --> 4588.60] Soon -[4588.60 --> 4589.24] It happens -[4589.24 --> 4589.96] That we don't even -[4589.96 --> 4590.92] Feel our ears -[4590.92 --> 4591.46] Itching -[4591.46 --> 4592.36] We just think -[4592.36 --> 4593.08] Oh this is what it means -[4593.08 --> 4593.58] To have ears -[4593.58 --> 4596.74] Now it's interesting -[4596.74 --> 4597.24] Right -[4597.24 --> 4599.42] That Paul's response -[4599.42 --> 4601.34] To Timothy -[4601.34 --> 4602.38] Paul's charge -[4602.38 --> 4603.34] To Timothy -[4603.34 --> 4604.08] In response -[4604.08 --> 4605.34] To that coming reality -[4605.34 --> 4606.88] Is precisely -[4606.88 --> 4607.56] The reason -[4607.56 --> 4608.60] Why his letter -[4608.60 --> 4609.20] To the Romans -[4609.20 --> 4610.06] Is so long -[4610.06 --> 4611.20] And so comprehensive -[4611.20 --> 4612.80] It's precisely -[4612.80 --> 4612.82] It's precisely -[4612.82 --> 4613.32] The reason -[4613.32 --> 4614.28] Why our study -[4614.28 --> 4614.70] Of the book -[4614.70 --> 4615.06] Of Romans -[4615.06 --> 4616.48] Is so important -[4616.48 --> 4618.50] To Timothy -[4618.50 --> 4619.50] He writes -[4619.50 --> 4621.92] Preach the word -[4621.92 --> 4623.54] Be prepared -[4623.54 --> 4624.30] In season -[4624.30 --> 4625.70] And out of season -[4625.70 --> 4626.22] Correct -[4626.22 --> 4626.68] Rebuke -[4626.68 --> 4627.26] And encourage -[4627.26 --> 4628.46] With great patience -[4628.46 --> 4630.14] And careful instruction -[4630.14 --> 4631.96] And he says -[4631.96 --> 4632.76] In response -[4632.76 --> 4634.14] To the itching ear -[4634.14 --> 4634.58] Teaching -[4634.58 --> 4635.70] That we need -[4635.70 --> 4636.48] Sound -[4636.48 --> 4637.50] Doctrine -[4637.50 --> 4640.36] That's Paul's words -[4640.36 --> 4640.86] That we need -[4640.86 --> 4642.00] Sound doctrine -[4642.00 --> 4643.36] Right -[4643.36 --> 4644.90] It is good theology -[4644.90 --> 4646.30] That will help us -[4646.30 --> 4647.46] In this crazy world -[4647.46 --> 4650.42] And so -[4650.42 --> 4651.66] To someone who says -[4651.66 --> 4653.60] Oh I'm not that bad -[4653.60 --> 4655.24] Or to someone who says -[4655.24 --> 4656.68] I'll do good things -[4656.68 --> 4657.70] That's good enough -[4657.70 --> 4659.24] Right -[4659.24 --> 4660.38] To someone who's -[4660.38 --> 4663.30] Over and over -[4663.30 --> 4664.70] Banging their morality -[4664.70 --> 4665.98] Trying to accomplish -[4665.98 --> 4666.66] Something -[4666.66 --> 4667.78] Paul brings -[4667.78 --> 4668.68] Clarity -[4668.68 --> 4670.98] Look at verse 6 -[4670.98 --> 4673.22] It says -[4673.22 --> 4674.22] God will repay -[4674.22 --> 4675.16] Each person -[4675.16 --> 4676.64] According to what -[4676.64 --> 4678.88] They have done -[4678.88 --> 4681.88] Psalm 139 -[4681.88 --> 4682.54] Is a favorite -[4682.54 --> 4683.96] To probably -[4683.96 --> 4684.88] Many of you -[4684.88 --> 4686.28] And it says -[4686.28 --> 4687.64] You have searched me -[4687.64 --> 4687.96] Lord -[4687.96 --> 4689.42] And you know me -[4689.42 --> 4691.80] You know when I sit -[4691.80 --> 4692.70] And when I rise -[4692.70 --> 4694.44] You perceive my thoughts -[4694.44 --> 4695.24] From afar -[4695.24 --> 4696.44] Even if I hide -[4696.44 --> 4697.10] In the dark -[4697.10 --> 4698.32] Darkness isn't dark -[4698.32 --> 4698.80] To you -[4698.80 --> 4700.28] Night is like day -[4700.28 --> 4701.82] Darkness is light -[4701.82 --> 4702.60] To you -[4702.60 --> 4703.24] Point is -[4703.24 --> 4704.34] God sees -[4704.34 --> 4705.36] Everything -[4705.36 --> 4707.32] Nothing you do -[4707.32 --> 4707.98] Or think -[4707.98 --> 4708.64] Or feel -[4708.64 --> 4709.30] Is hidden -[4709.30 --> 4710.24] From him -[4710.24 --> 4715.68] And so yes -[4715.68 --> 4716.48] It is true -[4716.48 --> 4718.18] Like verse 7 -[4718.18 --> 4718.68] Says -[4718.68 --> 4720.12] And verse 10 -[4720.12 --> 4720.40] Right -[4720.40 --> 4721.14] That those who -[4721.14 --> 4722.46] Persist in doing -[4722.46 --> 4722.86] Good -[4722.86 --> 4723.92] Who seek glory -[4723.92 --> 4724.52] And honor -[4724.52 --> 4726.32] And immortality -[4726.32 --> 4727.46] He will give you -[4727.46 --> 4728.22] Eternal life -[4728.22 --> 4729.78] But that word -[4729.78 --> 4730.94] Persistence -[4730.94 --> 4731.76] Is really -[4731.76 --> 4732.58] Important -[4732.58 --> 4733.30] Because it means -[4733.30 --> 4734.38] Consistence -[4734.38 --> 4735.34] It means those -[4735.34 --> 4736.40] Who are consistently -[4736.40 --> 4737.36] Always -[4737.36 --> 4738.16] Only -[4738.16 --> 4739.56] Doing good works -[4739.56 --> 4740.66] Right -[4740.66 --> 4741.54] We read Jesus -[4741.54 --> 4742.92] Be perfect -[4742.92 --> 4743.58] Like God -[4743.58 --> 4744.30] Is perfect -[4744.30 --> 4744.62] Right -[4744.62 --> 4745.10] Always -[4745.10 --> 4745.58] Only -[4745.58 --> 4746.34] Seek first -[4746.34 --> 4746.96] His kingdom -[4746.96 --> 4748.16] And his righteousness -[4748.16 --> 4749.16] Do that -[4749.16 --> 4750.72] And you will -[4750.72 --> 4751.74] Have eternal life -[4751.74 --> 4753.26] Right -[4753.26 --> 4753.66] That's back -[4753.66 --> 4754.18] To the covenant -[4754.18 --> 4754.72] Of works -[4754.72 --> 4755.94] And if you -[4755.94 --> 4756.72] Can't do -[4756.72 --> 4757.28] That -[4757.28 --> 4759.24] Verse 8 -[4759.24 --> 4761.40] For those -[4761.40 --> 4762.36] Who are self-seeking -[4762.36 --> 4763.34] Who reject the truth -[4763.34 --> 4764.22] And who follow evil -[4764.22 --> 4765.28] There will be wrath -[4765.28 --> 4766.78] And anger -[4766.78 --> 4769.34] There will be -[4769.34 --> 4771.66] Trouble -[4771.66 --> 4772.84] And distress -[4772.84 --> 4774.38] For every human being -[4774.38 --> 4775.88] Who does evil -[4775.88 --> 4778.32] See there's no -[4778.32 --> 4779.22] Half measures -[4779.22 --> 4780.36] Here -[4780.36 --> 4781.14] There's no -[4781.14 --> 4781.78] In between -[4781.78 --> 4783.14] There's no -[4783.14 --> 4784.04] Good enough -[4784.04 --> 4785.74] It's perfection -[4785.74 --> 4786.96] Or bust -[4786.96 --> 4789.16] Perfectly good -[4789.16 --> 4790.32] Perfectly righteous -[4790.32 --> 4791.48] Perfectly holy -[4791.48 --> 4792.78] Or it's just -[4792.78 --> 4793.86] Not good enough -[4793.86 --> 4795.92] And I'm sorry -[4795.92 --> 4796.40] If this -[4796.40 --> 4797.36] Offends you -[4797.36 --> 4799.58] But it doesn't -[4799.58 --> 4800.28] Matter who you -[4800.28 --> 4801.08] Think you are -[4801.08 --> 4802.14] It doesn't matter -[4802.14 --> 4802.80] How good you -[4802.80 --> 4803.40] Think you are -[4803.40 --> 4803.74] Paul says -[4803.74 --> 4804.52] You therefore -[4804.52 --> 4805.64] Have no excuse -[4805.64 --> 4806.76] You who pass -[4806.76 --> 4807.90] Judgment on someone -[4807.90 --> 4809.04] You are condemning -[4809.04 --> 4809.74] Yourself because -[4809.74 --> 4810.60] You do the same -[4810.60 --> 4810.98] Things -[4810.98 --> 4812.02] And so in context -[4812.02 --> 4813.04] It doesn't matter -[4813.04 --> 4813.72] If you are a -[4813.72 --> 4814.46] Roman citizen -[4814.46 --> 4815.40] The literal -[4815.40 --> 4816.66] Rulers and leaders -[4816.66 --> 4817.70] Of the world -[4817.70 --> 4819.20] It doesn't matter -[4819.20 --> 4819.60] If you are -[4819.60 --> 4820.72] Trying your best -[4820.72 --> 4821.80] It doesn't matter -[4821.80 --> 4822.76] If you are -[4822.76 --> 4823.40] The nicest -[4823.40 --> 4824.48] Most moral -[4824.48 --> 4825.46] Person you know -[4825.46 --> 4826.38] It doesn't even -[4826.38 --> 4827.28] Matter Paul says -[4827.28 --> 4827.82] If you are -[4827.82 --> 4828.66] Jewish and have -[4828.66 --> 4829.20] The law and -[4829.20 --> 4829.60] The promise -[4829.60 --> 4830.18] Of Abraham -[4830.18 --> 4831.34] That's verse -[4831.34 --> 4831.74] Nine -[4831.74 --> 4834.72] There will be -[4834.72 --> 4835.34] Trouble and distress -[4835.34 --> 4836.02] For every human -[4836.02 --> 4836.60] Being who does -[4836.60 --> 4837.20] Evil first -[4837.20 --> 4837.80] For the Jew -[4837.80 --> 4839.64] Then for the -[4839.64 --> 4840.18] Gentile -[4840.18 --> 4842.72] So first thing -[4842.72 --> 4843.64] Before we dig -[4843.64 --> 4844.26] Into that verse -[4844.26 --> 4845.76] Remember that -[4845.76 --> 4846.72] Paul himself -[4846.72 --> 4847.60] Is a Roman -[4847.60 --> 4848.06] Citizen -[4848.06 --> 4849.24] And a Jew -[4849.24 --> 4851.24] He is not -[4851.24 --> 4852.26] Only just a Jew -[4852.26 --> 4854.18] He is a Pharisee -[4854.18 --> 4855.00] Which means -[4855.00 --> 4856.54] In that prescribed -[4856.54 --> 4857.76] Reality and the way -[4857.76 --> 4858.70] Of world that is -[4858.70 --> 4859.02] Function -[4859.02 --> 4860.16] That when he says -[4860.16 --> 4860.90] In Philippians 3 -[4860.90 --> 4861.38] For instance -[4861.38 --> 4862.42] That he is -[4862.42 --> 4863.42] Blameless when it -[4863.42 --> 4864.18] Comes to the law -[4864.18 --> 4865.02] He means it -[4865.02 --> 4866.06] He's not wrong -[4866.06 --> 4868.18] But likewise -[4868.18 --> 4868.98] In Philippians 3 -[4868.98 --> 4869.90] He also says -[4869.90 --> 4870.68] That none of that -[4870.68 --> 4871.22] Matters -[4871.22 --> 4873.18] That's not enough -[4873.18 --> 4873.70] None of that -[4873.70 --> 4875.04] Helps him here -[4875.04 --> 4875.46] Right -[4875.46 --> 4876.16] If anyone -[4876.16 --> 4876.84] Had a reason -[4876.84 --> 4877.66] To be confident -[4877.66 --> 4878.72] In their status -[4878.72 --> 4879.74] Roman citizen -[4879.74 --> 4880.34] Jew -[4880.34 --> 4881.20] Pharisee -[4881.20 --> 4881.90] It was Paul -[4881.90 --> 4883.02] But even Paul -[4883.02 --> 4884.40] Can't and doesn't -[4884.40 --> 4885.40] And so -[4885.40 --> 4888.30] Why do I think -[4888.30 --> 4889.72] That I can -[4889.72 --> 4893.74] Paul uses a phrase -[4893.74 --> 4895.32] Here twice -[4895.32 --> 4896.26] And he also used it -[4896.26 --> 4897.28] In chapter 1 -[4897.28 --> 4898.04] Verse 16 -[4898.04 --> 4898.50] We'll read it -[4898.50 --> 4899.24] From chapter 1 -[4899.24 --> 4899.82] 16 -[4899.82 --> 4900.16] He says -[4900.16 --> 4901.16] For I am not ashamed -[4901.16 --> 4901.68] Of the gospel -[4901.68 --> 4902.64] Because it is the power -[4902.64 --> 4903.78] Of God that brings salvation -[4903.78 --> 4904.96] To everyone who believes -[4904.96 --> 4906.78] First to the Jew -[4906.78 --> 4908.22] Then to the Gentile -[4908.22 --> 4909.92] That's the phrase -[4909.92 --> 4910.80] First to the Jew -[4910.80 --> 4912.16] Then to the Gentile -[4912.16 --> 4914.00] In both cases -[4914.00 --> 4915.00] That phrase -[4915.00 --> 4915.96] Is about two things -[4915.96 --> 4917.24] It's about order -[4917.24 --> 4918.92] And inclusion -[4918.92 --> 4921.84] So in the case of order -[4921.84 --> 4923.54] It's Jesus was a Jew -[4923.54 --> 4925.30] God chose Israel -[4925.30 --> 4926.40] As his people -[4926.40 --> 4927.54] Through whom -[4927.54 --> 4928.90] To bless the world -[4928.90 --> 4929.58] That's the promise -[4929.58 --> 4929.96] Of God -[4929.96 --> 4930.76] To Abraham -[4930.76 --> 4931.62] Right -[4931.62 --> 4932.72] The gospel came -[4932.72 --> 4933.84] First to the Jews -[4933.84 --> 4935.20] But was always intended -[4935.20 --> 4936.72] For the rest of the world -[4936.72 --> 4937.96] For Gentiles -[4937.96 --> 4939.04] The word Gentile -[4939.04 --> 4940.64] Means non-Jew -[4940.64 --> 4942.00] And the word -[4942.00 --> 4943.02] Actually in Greek -[4943.02 --> 4944.72] The Paul's letters -[4944.72 --> 4945.50] Were originally written -[4945.50 --> 4946.00] In Greek -[4946.00 --> 4946.50] And the word -[4946.50 --> 4947.26] That is used here -[4947.26 --> 4947.92] That our Bibles -[4947.92 --> 4949.52] Translate Gentile -[4949.52 --> 4950.50] Is actually the word -[4950.50 --> 4951.16] Halani -[4951.16 --> 4952.98] Which is the Greek word -[4952.98 --> 4954.50] For the Greek people -[4954.50 --> 4955.92] Right -[4955.92 --> 4956.84] Or people who have -[4956.84 --> 4958.98] Adopted and been included -[4958.98 --> 4960.74] In the Greek religion -[4960.74 --> 4962.16] And geopolitical -[4962.16 --> 4963.30] Social culture -[4963.30 --> 4964.46] Because of the empire -[4964.46 --> 4965.92] Sometimes you may have heard -[4965.92 --> 4967.58] Of the Hellenistic era -[4967.58 --> 4968.44] Right -[4968.44 --> 4969.42] That's the root there -[4969.42 --> 4971.36] But it's also -[4971.36 --> 4972.48] Not just about order -[4972.48 --> 4974.12] It's about inclusion -[4974.12 --> 4975.44] That is to say -[4975.44 --> 4976.52] It cuts both ways -[4976.52 --> 4976.72] Right -[4976.72 --> 4978.76] The gospel is for Gentiles -[4978.76 --> 4979.96] And that the gospel -[4979.96 --> 4980.82] Is for Gentiles -[4980.82 --> 4981.92] Would be offensive -[4981.92 --> 4983.34] To the Jews -[4983.34 --> 4986.70] But also -[4986.70 --> 4988.90] As the primary -[4988.90 --> 4989.94] Audience -[4989.94 --> 4991.20] Or the first readers -[4991.20 --> 4992.18] Of the Christians -[4992.18 --> 4992.72] In Rome -[4992.72 --> 4993.56] Were probably -[4993.56 --> 4994.86] Most of them -[4994.86 --> 4996.02] Jewish converts -[4996.02 --> 4996.84] To Christianity -[4996.84 --> 4998.72] So Paul's primary audience -[4998.72 --> 4999.66] Would be a group -[4999.66 --> 5000.88] Of people who grew up -[5000.88 --> 5001.18] Jewish -[5001.18 --> 5001.78] And are now -[5001.78 --> 5003.28] Practicing Christians -[5003.28 --> 5005.10] Right -[5005.10 --> 5006.08] They would have read -[5006.08 --> 5007.06] And heard -[5007.06 --> 5008.46] As it was read to them -[5008.46 --> 5009.14] The first -[5009.14 --> 5010.90] All of chapter 1 -[5010.90 --> 5012.06] Right -[5012.06 --> 5012.68] Where Paul says -[5012.68 --> 5013.46] Everything that he says -[5013.46 --> 5014.64] About sinful humanity -[5014.64 --> 5016.44] And in their own minds -[5016.44 --> 5017.44] They would have heard that -[5017.44 --> 5019.56] And excluded themselves -[5019.56 --> 5022.70] So they would read -[5022.70 --> 5024.34] The last part of chapter 1 -[5024.34 --> 5025.88] As these Jewish Christians -[5025.88 --> 5026.50] And they would think -[5026.50 --> 5026.94] Yes -[5026.94 --> 5027.86] You know what Paul -[5027.86 --> 5029.20] Those pagans -[5029.20 --> 5030.86] Do suppress the truth of God -[5030.86 --> 5031.98] Those pagans -[5031.98 --> 5033.26] Do live in wickedness -[5033.26 --> 5034.24] Those pagans -[5034.24 --> 5035.40] Really are godless -[5035.40 --> 5037.14] They would have heard -[5037.14 --> 5037.82] What Paul said -[5037.82 --> 5038.18] And they go -[5038.18 --> 5038.64] Yeah -[5038.64 --> 5040.24] Absolutely Paul -[5040.24 --> 5041.68] Those pagans -[5041.68 --> 5042.28] Over there -[5042.28 --> 5043.18] They give themselves -[5043.18 --> 5044.42] Over to sinful desires -[5044.42 --> 5045.96] And to sexual immorality -[5045.96 --> 5046.68] Those pagans -[5046.68 --> 5047.56] Give themselves over -[5047.56 --> 5048.60] To a depraved mind -[5048.60 --> 5050.26] And every kind of wickedness -[5050.26 --> 5050.98] Evil greed -[5050.98 --> 5051.78] And depravity -[5051.78 --> 5053.44] They would have heard that -[5053.44 --> 5053.88] And they would have -[5053.88 --> 5055.16] Excluded themselves -[5055.16 --> 5056.66] As the target -[5056.66 --> 5058.86] What Paul does here -[5058.86 --> 5059.36] In chapter 2 -[5059.36 --> 5060.18] Is make sure to -[5060.18 --> 5061.08] Include them -[5061.08 --> 5062.74] As the target -[5062.74 --> 5065.40] Part of what we have -[5065.40 --> 5066.30] Been saying this morning -[5066.30 --> 5067.46] Is that -[5067.46 --> 5068.58] Paul's point -[5068.58 --> 5070.18] Is that religious people -[5070.18 --> 5071.18] And now the target -[5071.18 --> 5072.06] Broadens to include -[5072.06 --> 5072.50] You and me -[5072.50 --> 5074.58] Religious people -[5074.58 --> 5075.92] Sometimes think -[5075.92 --> 5077.58] That we're better -[5077.58 --> 5082.24] But the fact -[5082.24 --> 5083.64] Is that -[5083.64 --> 5084.24] The trouble -[5084.24 --> 5085.94] And distress -[5085.94 --> 5087.28] For those -[5087.28 --> 5087.90] Who know -[5087.90 --> 5088.56] The law -[5088.56 --> 5090.84] Will be worse -[5090.84 --> 5092.58] And it will be first -[5092.58 --> 5093.76] Right -[5093.76 --> 5094.30] That's why -[5094.30 --> 5095.22] There's no excuse -[5095.22 --> 5095.58] Because -[5095.58 --> 5097.52] We do the same thing -[5097.52 --> 5099.06] That's why -[5099.06 --> 5099.64] There's no excuse -[5099.64 --> 5099.92] Because -[5099.92 --> 5100.76] Verse 12 -[5100.76 --> 5101.82] All who sin -[5101.82 --> 5102.78] Apart from the law -[5102.78 --> 5103.48] Will also perish -[5103.48 --> 5104.20] Apart from the law -[5104.20 --> 5104.86] And all who sin -[5104.86 --> 5105.52] Under the law -[5105.52 --> 5106.22] Will be judged -[5106.22 --> 5107.42] By the law -[5107.42 --> 5109.08] Right -[5109.08 --> 5109.98] It turns out -[5109.98 --> 5111.30] It's a dangerous -[5111.30 --> 5112.66] Thing to know the law -[5112.66 --> 5115.94] One writer says -[5115.94 --> 5117.30] That chapter 2 -[5117.30 --> 5118.36] Is like a bucket -[5118.36 --> 5119.54] Of cold water -[5119.54 --> 5121.06] To the religious person -[5121.06 --> 5122.18] Right -[5122.18 --> 5122.84] It's a shock -[5122.84 --> 5123.50] To the system -[5123.50 --> 5125.70] A bucket of ice water -[5125.70 --> 5126.66] Thrown in your face -[5126.66 --> 5127.30] When you've been saying -[5127.30 --> 5127.92] Yeah them -[5127.92 --> 5128.80] Yeah them -[5128.80 --> 5129.60] Yeah them -[5129.60 --> 5132.26] You -[5132.26 --> 5134.36] Me -[5134.36 --> 5137.60] It's the same -[5137.60 --> 5138.22] For us -[5138.22 --> 5139.50] Who are religious -[5139.50 --> 5140.64] Moralists today -[5140.64 --> 5141.28] It's the same -[5141.28 --> 5141.88] For those who -[5141.88 --> 5143.24] Believe in the ogre -[5143.24 --> 5143.90] Frame -[5143.90 --> 5144.52] The universal -[5144.52 --> 5145.30] Gnostic religious -[5145.30 --> 5145.98] Ethic -[5145.98 --> 5147.18] For anyone who says -[5147.18 --> 5148.62] Just try to be good -[5148.62 --> 5151.56] Just try not to be too bad -[5151.56 --> 5153.60] It's not enough -[5153.60 --> 5156.50] It's never going to be -[5156.50 --> 5157.44] Enough -[5157.44 --> 5161.80] Covenant of works -[5161.80 --> 5163.72] And our failure -[5163.72 --> 5165.50] And the law -[5165.50 --> 5167.90] And our conscience -[5167.90 --> 5170.42] They all condemn us -[5170.42 --> 5173.00] And our morality -[5173.00 --> 5174.76] Our religiosity -[5174.76 --> 5175.90] Our privilege -[5175.90 --> 5176.70] Whatever form -[5176.70 --> 5177.70] That takes -[5177.70 --> 5179.44] Doesn't help us -[5179.44 --> 5184.66] Verse 4 -[5184.66 --> 5188.16] But God's kindness -[5188.16 --> 5190.42] Is intended -[5190.42 --> 5191.74] To lead you -[5191.74 --> 5193.04] To repentance -[5193.04 --> 5196.42] That's what we need -[5196.42 --> 5197.10] Right now -[5197.10 --> 5198.14] Right -[5198.14 --> 5199.38] Repentant hearts -[5199.38 --> 5200.58] The realization -[5200.58 --> 5201.58] This morning -[5201.58 --> 5202.28] That nothing -[5202.28 --> 5203.12] I do -[5203.12 --> 5204.02] Is enough -[5204.02 --> 5204.86] Because nothing -[5204.86 --> 5205.58] I do -[5205.58 --> 5206.78] Is perfectly -[5206.78 --> 5207.62] Perfect -[5207.62 --> 5210.46] But there is one -[5210.46 --> 5211.42] Who has come -[5211.42 --> 5213.24] Right -[5213.24 --> 5214.28] There is one -[5214.28 --> 5215.86] Who knew no sin -[5215.86 --> 5217.46] But became -[5217.46 --> 5218.26] Sin -[5218.26 --> 5219.34] For us -[5219.34 --> 5220.74] That we might become -[5220.74 --> 5221.36] The righteousness -[5221.36 --> 5222.24] Of God -[5222.24 --> 5223.34] We failed -[5223.34 --> 5224.56] Right -[5224.56 --> 5225.10] We failed -[5225.10 --> 5225.84] In the covenant -[5225.84 --> 5226.44] Of works -[5226.44 --> 5227.28] And then -[5227.28 --> 5228.42] We try to change -[5228.42 --> 5229.34] The covenant of works -[5229.34 --> 5229.92] Into something -[5229.92 --> 5230.86] That is lesser -[5230.86 --> 5231.52] Than -[5231.52 --> 5232.78] But God -[5232.78 --> 5234.30] Even in our failure -[5234.30 --> 5234.90] God -[5234.90 --> 5236.00] Gives the covenant -[5236.00 --> 5237.40] Of grace -[5237.40 --> 5238.32] God comes -[5238.32 --> 5239.42] In Jesus Christ -[5239.42 --> 5240.66] To live the life -[5240.66 --> 5241.58] That we should have lived -[5241.58 --> 5242.96] And to die the death -[5242.96 --> 5243.76] That we deserve -[5243.76 --> 5245.24] As the wrath of God -[5245.24 --> 5246.10] For our sin -[5246.10 --> 5246.94] And now -[5246.94 --> 5247.66] A righteousness -[5247.66 --> 5248.34] From God -[5248.34 --> 5249.92] Has been made available -[5249.92 --> 5251.52] Apart from the law -[5251.52 --> 5252.20] A righteousness -[5252.20 --> 5253.36] That is by grace -[5253.36 --> 5255.00] Through faith -[5255.00 --> 5257.22] That -[5257.22 --> 5258.52] Is what -[5258.52 --> 5259.20] We need -[5259.20 --> 5259.94] That is what -[5259.94 --> 5261.24] I hope you hear -[5261.24 --> 5261.82] From me -[5261.82 --> 5262.36] Week in -[5262.36 --> 5262.96] And week out -[5262.96 --> 5265.26] That is the sound doctrine -[5265.26 --> 5266.66] The pure preaching -[5266.66 --> 5267.68] Of the gospel -[5267.68 --> 5268.72] That our generation -[5268.72 --> 5269.88] So desperately -[5269.88 --> 5271.10] Needs to hear -[5271.10 --> 5274.68] It is the hard truth -[5274.68 --> 5277.04] Of our total inability -[5277.04 --> 5279.40] Of human depravity -[5279.40 --> 5280.42] Because it is only -[5280.42 --> 5281.62] When we understand -[5281.62 --> 5283.00] That we are absolutely -[5283.00 --> 5284.32] Unable -[5284.32 --> 5285.94] Do we begin to understand -[5285.94 --> 5286.48] God -[5286.48 --> 5287.40] Who has done -[5287.40 --> 5288.36] Everything -[5288.36 --> 5291.34] And instead of trying -[5291.34 --> 5292.30] To the point -[5292.30 --> 5293.14] Of depression -[5293.14 --> 5294.42] And anxiety -[5294.42 --> 5295.46] Instead of -[5295.46 --> 5297.42] Casting social shame -[5297.42 --> 5298.44] And canceling -[5298.44 --> 5299.80] Those around us -[5299.80 --> 5300.72] Who don't meet -[5300.72 --> 5301.74] Our standard -[5301.74 --> 5303.20] Or some standard -[5303.20 --> 5303.60] Right -[5303.60 --> 5304.46] We can turn -[5304.46 --> 5305.16] To the grace -[5305.16 --> 5305.94] Of God -[5305.94 --> 5306.66] Together -[5306.66 --> 5307.88] We can turn -[5307.88 --> 5309.20] To this truth -[5309.20 --> 5310.34] Which is the great -[5310.34 --> 5311.48] Equalizer -[5311.48 --> 5312.54] All of us -[5312.54 --> 5313.38] The same -[5313.38 --> 5314.74] Stand in need -[5314.74 --> 5315.60] Of the grace -[5315.60 --> 5316.46] Of God -[5316.46 --> 5319.46] And so -[5319.46 --> 5321.82] If you are -[5321.82 --> 5322.90] A Christian -[5322.90 --> 5324.52] Who has received -[5324.52 --> 5325.16] The grace -[5325.16 --> 5325.74] Of God -[5325.74 --> 5326.24] This morning -[5326.24 --> 5327.18] Or if you are -[5327.18 --> 5327.74] Hungry -[5327.74 --> 5328.40] And your soul -[5328.40 --> 5329.30] Is crying out -[5329.30 --> 5330.12] For the grace -[5330.12 --> 5330.54] Of God -[5330.54 --> 5330.94] This morning -[5330.94 --> 5332.32] He is here -[5332.32 --> 5333.10] And he -[5333.10 --> 5334.58] Has life -[5334.58 --> 5335.56] For you -[5335.56 --> 5338.12] And if you have -[5338.12 --> 5339.36] Received that grace -[5339.36 --> 5340.72] How much -[5340.72 --> 5341.46] More -[5341.46 --> 5343.02] Understanding -[5343.02 --> 5344.42] Should you have -[5344.42 --> 5345.08] In this life -[5345.08 --> 5346.52] How much more -[5346.52 --> 5347.88] Understanding of the world -[5347.88 --> 5348.50] And the way things -[5348.50 --> 5348.98] Are working -[5348.98 --> 5349.94] Or not working -[5349.94 --> 5351.36] Or the brokenness -[5351.36 --> 5351.84] That we face -[5351.84 --> 5352.90] Should you have -[5352.90 --> 5353.84] In this life -[5353.84 --> 5354.70] How much more -[5354.70 --> 5355.52] Humility -[5355.52 --> 5356.88] Should we have -[5356.88 --> 5357.58] As Christians -[5357.58 --> 5358.70] In response -[5358.70 --> 5360.18] To this brokenness -[5360.18 --> 5361.32] And this heartbreak -[5361.32 --> 5362.32] To this feeble -[5362.32 --> 5362.78] Attempt -[5362.78 --> 5363.40] And failure -[5363.40 --> 5364.40] How much more -[5364.40 --> 5365.00] Gentleness -[5365.00 --> 5366.20] And respect -[5366.20 --> 5367.10] Should we have -[5367.10 --> 5367.88] For those people -[5367.88 --> 5368.20] Who are -[5368.20 --> 5370.20] Stuck in sin -[5370.20 --> 5371.78] For those who are -[5371.78 --> 5372.62] Trapped in this -[5372.62 --> 5373.28] Wrong way -[5373.28 --> 5374.06] Of seeing -[5374.06 --> 5374.76] And being -[5374.76 --> 5375.62] In the world -[5375.62 --> 5379.92] And as I say that -[5379.92 --> 5380.82] Many of you -[5380.82 --> 5381.18] Are thinking -[5381.18 --> 5381.94] Yes pastor -[5381.94 --> 5383.00] Yes we should -[5383.00 --> 5383.40] Have that -[5383.40 --> 5384.02] We should be -[5384.02 --> 5384.40] That way -[5384.40 --> 5385.36] But let me ask you -[5385.36 --> 5386.36] Are we known -[5386.36 --> 5387.64] As that -[5387.64 --> 5390.62] Are we known -[5390.62 --> 5391.82] As those who are -[5391.82 --> 5392.74] Full of gentleness -[5392.74 --> 5393.86] And respect -[5393.86 --> 5395.42] Is that what you -[5395.42 --> 5396.32] Are known for -[5396.32 --> 5397.48] In your office -[5397.48 --> 5399.58] Is that what you -[5399.58 --> 5400.46] Are known for -[5400.46 --> 5401.00] As a person -[5401.00 --> 5401.76] Of humility -[5401.76 --> 5402.66] Who anyone -[5402.66 --> 5403.56] Can come up to -[5403.56 --> 5404.86] At school -[5404.86 --> 5407.34] Is that what you -[5407.34 --> 5408.32] Are known for -[5408.32 --> 5410.66] When you play -[5410.66 --> 5411.64] Hockey -[5411.64 --> 5413.14] On Saturday nights -[5413.14 --> 5415.06] Or soccer -[5415.06 --> 5416.56] On Saturday morning -[5416.56 --> 5419.60] Is that what you -[5419.60 --> 5421.40] Are known for -[5421.40 --> 5423.18] When you know -[5423.18 --> 5423.68] Grace -[5423.68 --> 5425.48] When you know -[5425.48 --> 5426.08] This Jesus -[5426.08 --> 5428.26] Came into the world -[5428.26 --> 5428.68] For you -[5428.68 --> 5431.60] Paul says -[5431.60 --> 5432.18] We need -[5432.18 --> 5434.02] Sound doctrine -[5434.02 --> 5435.06] To combat -[5435.06 --> 5436.50] What itching ears -[5436.50 --> 5437.30] Want to hear -[5437.30 --> 5439.44] And it is sound -[5439.44 --> 5440.06] Doctrine -[5440.06 --> 5440.46] That will -[5440.46 --> 5442.06] Transform our -[5442.06 --> 5443.48] Hearts and minds -[5443.48 --> 5444.14] And lives -[5444.14 --> 5445.28] It is sound doctrine -[5445.28 --> 5445.62] That will -[5445.62 --> 5446.98] Form a faith -[5446.98 --> 5447.60] In us -[5447.60 --> 5448.64] That makes us -[5448.64 --> 5449.80] More like -[5449.80 --> 5450.52] Jesus -[5450.52 --> 5451.70] In the world -[5451.70 --> 5453.10] And so -[5453.10 --> 5454.16] As you go -[5454.16 --> 5454.98] Wrestle with -[5454.98 --> 5456.04] That question -[5456.04 --> 5457.36] How am I -[5457.36 --> 5458.20] Known -[5458.20 --> 5459.30] But also -[5459.30 --> 5461.14] Ask yourself -[5461.14 --> 5462.24] How will I -[5462.24 --> 5462.90] Grow -[5462.90 --> 5464.94] How will I -[5464.94 --> 5465.70] Be transformed -[5465.70 --> 5466.64] Into the image -[5466.64 --> 5466.92] Of Jesus -[5466.92 --> 5467.74] What am I doing -[5467.74 --> 5468.64] To dig deep -[5468.64 --> 5469.88] Into God's word -[5469.88 --> 5470.56] To be shaped -[5470.56 --> 5471.66] By sound doctrine -[5471.66 --> 5472.80] Are you in a bible study -[5472.80 --> 5474.70] Are you doing -[5474.70 --> 5476.00] Your devotions -[5476.00 --> 5476.80] Personally -[5476.80 --> 5478.16] And corporately -[5478.16 --> 5479.88] Are you signing up -[5479.88 --> 5481.70] For adult education -[5481.70 --> 5482.52] Classes -[5482.52 --> 5483.44] Right -[5483.44 --> 5483.96] And in -[5483.96 --> 5485.30] A couple weeks -[5485.30 --> 5486.10] I'm going to be running -[5486.10 --> 5486.74] A Christianity -[5486.74 --> 5488.12] Explored class -[5488.12 --> 5488.38] Here -[5488.38 --> 5489.04] And that class -[5489.04 --> 5489.60] Is targeted -[5489.60 --> 5490.52] Primarily for people -[5490.52 --> 5491.50] Who are new to faith -[5491.50 --> 5492.72] Or who are returning -[5492.72 --> 5493.24] To faith -[5493.24 --> 5494.44] After a long time away -[5494.44 --> 5495.60] Right -[5495.60 --> 5496.24] If that's something -[5496.24 --> 5497.36] Where you are interested in -[5497.36 --> 5497.90] Or you want to -[5497.90 --> 5498.76] Dig into that -[5498.76 --> 5499.54] Grab me -[5499.54 --> 5500.52] After the service -[5500.52 --> 5501.04] And I'll get you -[5501.04 --> 5501.62] On that list -[5501.62 --> 5502.10] And we will -[5502.10 --> 5503.10] Get that going -[5503.10 --> 5504.30] Please -[5504.30 --> 5504.90] Dig -[5504.90 --> 5505.90] Deep -[5505.90 --> 5508.28] Because Sunday -[5508.28 --> 5510.38] Isn't enough -[5510.38 --> 5513.86] It's the bare minimum -[5513.86 --> 5514.90] And let's start here -[5514.90 --> 5517.92] But listening to me -[5517.92 --> 5519.56] Isn't enough -[5519.56 --> 5522.68] Singing some songs -[5522.68 --> 5525.16] As great as they are -[5525.16 --> 5527.02] Isn't enough -[5527.02 --> 5529.46] We need -[5529.46 --> 5530.88] To be transformed -[5530.88 --> 5532.60] By the gospel -[5532.60 --> 5533.70] Of grace -[5533.70 --> 5534.82] And so we must -[5534.82 --> 5536.62] Immerse ourselves -[5536.62 --> 5537.62] In the gospel -[5537.62 --> 5538.56] Because in immersing -[5538.56 --> 5539.14] Ourselves -[5539.14 --> 5540.26] In the gospel -[5540.26 --> 5542.40] We are drawing near -[5542.40 --> 5544.00] To no one other -[5544.00 --> 5544.88] Than Jesus -[5544.88 --> 5546.28] Christ -[5546.28 --> 5548.88] And it is in his name -[5548.88 --> 5550.62] We go -[5550.62 --> 5552.12] It is in his name -[5552.12 --> 5553.04] We pray -[5553.04 --> 5554.08] It is in his name -[5554.08 --> 5555.02] That we together say -[5555.02 --> 5556.14] Amen -[5556.14 --> 5557.78] Let's pray -[5557.78 --> 5566.58] Holy God -[5566.58 --> 5569.90] Open our eyes -[5569.90 --> 5570.36] Today -[5570.36 --> 5571.36] Once again -[5571.36 --> 5572.62] To the -[5572.62 --> 5574.28] Wondrous -[5574.28 --> 5575.30] Mystery -[5575.30 --> 5576.80] Of the gospel -[5576.80 --> 5579.22] Open our eyes -[5579.22 --> 5579.94] To the truth -[5579.94 --> 5581.00] Of who we are -[5581.00 --> 5581.34] To the -[5581.34 --> 5582.16] To the sound -[5582.16 --> 5582.74] Doctrine -[5582.74 --> 5583.78] Of your word -[5583.78 --> 5584.66] Plant it -[5584.66 --> 5586.00] Deep within us -[5586.00 --> 5587.14] So that from it -[5587.14 --> 5588.24] You might grow -[5588.24 --> 5589.58] In our lives -[5589.58 --> 5590.38] So that we might -[5590.38 --> 5591.26] Be transformed -[5591.26 --> 5591.76] And so that -[5591.76 --> 5592.88] As we go from -[5592.88 --> 5593.94] This place transformed -[5593.94 --> 5595.22] The world might see -[5595.22 --> 5596.18] More and more -[5596.18 --> 5596.88] Of you -[5596.88 --> 5598.28] In all that we do -[5598.28 --> 5599.48] In all that we say -[5599.48 --> 5600.98] In who we are -[5600.98 --> 5602.18] In the everyday -[5602.18 --> 5603.26] Situations -[5603.26 --> 5604.20] And circumstances -[5604.20 --> 5605.20] Of life -[5605.20 --> 5608.00] And as we stand -[5608.00 --> 5608.96] Now Lord God -[5608.96 --> 5609.58] To sing -[5609.58 --> 5611.50] May we sing -[5611.50 --> 5612.70] Captivated -[5612.70 --> 5613.44] By the beauty -[5613.44 --> 5614.12] Of the gospel -[5614.12 --> 5615.18] May we sing -[5615.18 --> 5615.98] Compelled -[5615.98 --> 5616.86] To shout -[5616.86 --> 5617.80] From the mountaintops -[5617.80 --> 5618.32] The truth -[5618.32 --> 5619.12] Of Jesus Christ -[5619.12 --> 5620.52] May we sing -[5620.52 --> 5622.24] Your praises -[5622.24 --> 5623.00] Lord Jesus -[5623.00 --> 5624.54] Because we see -[5624.54 --> 5625.82] Your face -[5625.82 --> 5626.34] Here -[5626.34 --> 5627.58] And now -[5627.58 --> 5628.40] Together -[5628.40 --> 5631.72] We live our lives -[5631.72 --> 5632.32] In praise -[5632.32 --> 5632.84] Of you -[5632.84 --> 5634.32] And so we praise -[5634.32 --> 5634.62] You -[5634.62 --> 5635.48] Lord Jesus -[5635.48 --> 5636.56] Amen -[5636.56 --> 5666.54] Come be home -[5666.54 --> 5669.86] Hope the wondrous mystery -[5669.86 --> 5672.52] In the dawning -[5672.52 --> 5675.26] Of the King -[5675.26 --> 5677.58] He the theme -[5677.58 --> 5680.62] Of heaven's praises -[5680.62 --> 5684.58] Robed in frail humanity -[5684.58 --> 5688.30] In our longing -[5688.30 --> 5690.84] In our darkness -[5690.84 --> 5693.68] Now the light -[5693.68 --> 5696.34] Of life has come -[5696.34 --> 5698.50] Looked to Christ -[5698.50 --> 5701.26] Who condescended -[5701.26 --> 5703.70] Took on flesh -[5703.70 --> 5707.56] To ransom us -[5707.56 --> 5716.64] Come behold -[5716.64 --> 5719.42] The wondrous mystery -[5719.42 --> 5721.96] He the perfect -[5721.96 --> 5724.72] Son of man -[5724.72 --> 5727.00] In his living -[5727.00 --> 5729.70] In his suffering -[5729.70 --> 5731.80] Never trace -[5731.80 --> 5733.14] Nor stain -[5733.14 --> 5734.72] Of sin -[5734.72 --> 5736.70] See the true -[5736.70 --> 5738.50] And better -[5738.50 --> 5739.94] Adam -[5739.94 --> 5741.72] Come to save -[5742.48 --> 5743.30] The hell -[5743.30 --> 5744.92] Thou man -[5744.92 --> 5747.10] Christ the great -[5747.10 --> 5749.66] And sure fulfillment -[5749.66 --> 5750.98] Of the law -[5750.98 --> 5751.98] Of the law -[5751.98 --> 5753.32] In him -[5753.32 --> 5753.98] We stand -[5753.98 --> 5754.98] Of the law -[5754.98 --> 5755.04] In him -[5755.04 --> 5755.48] We stand -[5755.48 --> 5763.98] Come behold -[5763.98 --> 5766.98] The wondrous mystery -[5766.98 --> 5769.98] Christ the Lord -[5769.98 --> 5772.34] Upon the tree -[5772.34 --> 5774.34] In the stead -[5774.34 --> 5774.62] In the stead -[5774.62 --> 5775.18] In the stead -[5775.18 --> 5778.12] Of ruined sinners -[5778.12 --> 5780.24] Hangs the lamb -[5780.24 --> 5781.62] In victory -[5781.62 --> 5781.88] In the stead of ruined sinners -[5781.88 --> 5781.98] Hangs the lamb in victory -[5781.98 --> 5784.26] See the price -[5784.26 --> 5785.40] See the price -[5785.40 --> 5787.98] Of our redemption -[5787.98 --> 5792.98] See the Father's plan unfold -[5792.98 --> 5798.58] Bringing many sons to glory -[5798.58 --> 5801.72] Grace unmeasured -[5801.72 --> 5803.98] Love untold -[5803.98 --> 5812.98] Come behold -[5812.98 --> 5816.56] The wondrous mystery -[5816.56 --> 5818.80] Slain by death -[5818.80 --> 5821.88] The God of life -[5821.88 --> 5824.90] But no grave good -[5824.90 --> 5827.00] Ere restrain him -[5827.00 --> 5829.06] Praise the Lord -[5829.06 --> 5830.98] He is alive -[5830.98 --> 5834.86] What a foretaste -[5834.86 --> 5837.00] Of deliverance -[5837.00 --> 5840.26] How unwavering -[5840.26 --> 5841.80] Our hope -[5841.80 --> 5844.34] Christ in power -[5844.34 --> 5847.02] Resurrected -[5847.02 --> 5849.60] As we will be -[5849.60 --> 5851.90] When he comes -[5851.90 --> 5854.80] What a foretaste -[5854.80 --> 5857.02] Of deliverance -[5857.02 --> 5860.34] How unwavering -[5860.34 --> 5863.30] Our hope -[5863.30 --> 5867.30] Christ in power -[5867.30 --> 5870.38] Resurrected -[5870.38 --> 5873.30] As we will be -[5873.30 --> 5877.56] When he comes -[5877.56 --> 5893.40] As we go -[5893.40 --> 5894.18] I'm going to invite you -[5894.18 --> 5895.18] To stick around -[5895.18 --> 5896.36] In the fellowship hall -[5896.36 --> 5897.32] For coffee -[5897.32 --> 5899.08] And hanging out together -[5899.08 --> 5900.18] Encourage you to gather -[5900.18 --> 5901.92] To share life -[5901.92 --> 5902.62] And story -[5902.62 --> 5903.46] Offer prayer -[5903.46 --> 5904.62] And be prayed -[5904.62 --> 5905.34] Over -[5905.34 --> 5906.50] Specifically -[5906.50 --> 5907.68] If you are looking -[5907.68 --> 5908.44] For prayer -[5908.44 --> 5909.76] We have people -[5909.76 --> 5910.58] Wearing yellow -[5910.58 --> 5911.24] Name tags -[5911.24 --> 5911.94] Who are available -[5911.94 --> 5912.52] One of them -[5912.52 --> 5913.34] Will come up here -[5913.34 --> 5913.98] To the front -[5913.98 --> 5914.86] After service -[5914.86 --> 5915.66] And you can meet them -[5915.66 --> 5916.68] Here in this space -[5916.68 --> 5918.20] To be prayed for -[5918.20 --> 5919.14] And prayed over -[5919.14 --> 5920.76] As well -[5920.76 --> 5921.74] If you are interested -[5921.74 --> 5922.80] In the Christianity -[5922.80 --> 5923.70] Explored class -[5923.70 --> 5924.44] That I talked about -[5924.44 --> 5925.94] Or if you have -[5925.94 --> 5926.48] A neighbor -[5926.48 --> 5927.36] Or a friend -[5927.36 --> 5927.98] Or a colleague -[5927.98 --> 5928.52] Or someone -[5928.52 --> 5929.26] Who you have been -[5929.26 --> 5930.66] Talking about faith with -[5930.66 --> 5931.62] And want to dig -[5931.62 --> 5932.08] A little deeper -[5932.08 --> 5932.54] With them -[5932.54 --> 5933.64] Talk to me -[5933.64 --> 5934.40] After the service -[5934.40 --> 5935.22] Invite them -[5935.22 --> 5936.94] To this experience -[5936.94 --> 5937.38] Together -[5937.38 --> 5939.28] And we can journey -[5939.28 --> 5940.46] In our faith -[5940.46 --> 5941.70] I will be at the -[5941.70 --> 5942.26] Connect booth -[5942.26 --> 5942.78] At the back -[5942.78 --> 5943.46] You can grab me -[5943.46 --> 5944.48] I'll take your information -[5944.48 --> 5945.70] And we can get that -[5945.70 --> 5946.80] Going together -[5946.80 --> 5949.20] As we go into this week -[5949.20 --> 5950.26] Know that God himself -[5950.26 --> 5951.64] Goes with you -[5951.64 --> 5953.02] And so receive -[5953.02 --> 5954.66] His blessing -[5954.66 --> 5957.70] The Lord bless you -[5957.70 --> 5959.28] And keep you -[5959.28 --> 5961.16] The Lord make his face -[5961.16 --> 5962.18] To shine upon you -[5962.18 --> 5963.28] And be gracious -[5963.28 --> 5964.58] To you -[5964.58 --> 5967.22] The Lord turn his face -[5967.22 --> 5968.00] Toward you -[5968.00 --> 5969.26] And give you -[5969.26 --> 5971.24] His peace -[5971.24 --> 5973.34] Amen -[5973.34 --> 5996.20] Amen -[5996.20 --> 5998.94] Amen -[5998.94 --> 6003.20] Amen, amen. -[6003.20 --> 6017.20] Amen, amen, amen. -[6020.66 --> 6027.20] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[6027.20 --> 6035.20] Make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[6035.52 --> 6048.88] The Lord turn his face towards you and give you peace. -[6048.88 --> 6058.88] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[6058.88 --> 6066.54] Make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[6066.86 --> 6079.88] The Lord turn his face towards you and give you peace. -[6079.88 --> 6093.88] Amen, amen, amen. -[6093.88 --> 6107.88] Amen, amen, amen. -[6107.88 --> 6109.88] Amen, amen. -[6109.88 --> 6110.88] Amen. -[6110.88 --> 6111.88] Amen. -[6111.88 --> 6112.88] Amen. -[6112.88 --> 6114.88] Amen. -[6114.88 --> 6115.88] Amen. -[6115.88 --> 6116.88] Amen. -[6116.88 --> 6118.88] Amen. -[6118.88 --> 6120.88] Amen. -[6120.88 --> 6122.88] Amen. -[6122.88 --> 6124.88] Amen. -[6124.88 --> 6126.88] Amen. -[6126.88 --> 6127.88] Amen. -[6127.88 --> 6128.88] Amen. -[6128.88 --> 6130.88] Amen. -[6130.88 --> 6132.88] Amen. -[6132.88 --> 6134.88] Amen. -[6134.88 --> 6136.88] Amen. -[6136.88 --> 6138.88] Amen. -[6138.88 --> 6140.88] Amen. -[6140.88 --> 6141.88] Amen. -[6141.88 --> 6144.88] Amen. -[6144.88 --> 6146.88] Amen. -[6146.88 --> 6148.88] Amen. -[6148.88 --> 6152.88] Amen. -[6152.88 --> 6154.88] Amen. -[6154.88 --> 6156.88] Amen. -[6156.88 --> 6158.88] Amen. -[6158.88 --> 6168.34] and your family and your children and their children and their children may his presence -[6168.34 --> 6178.74] go before you and behind you and beside you all around you and within you he is with you -[6178.74 --> 6188.86] he is with you in the morning in the evening in your coming and your going in your weeping -[6188.86 --> 6203.62] and rejoicing he is for you he is for you he is for you he is for you he is for you -[6203.62 --> 6208.70] is -[6208.70 --> 6213.04] amen -[6213.04 --> 6215.04] amen -[6215.04 --> 6218.18] Amen. -[6218.18 --> 6220.42] Amen. -[6223.00 --> 6236.78] Amen. -[6236.78 --> 6241.18] Amen. -[6241.18 --> 6244.18] Amen -[6244.18 --> 6247.18] Amen -[6247.18 --> 6252.18] Amen -[6252.18 --> 6256.18] Amen -[6256.18 --> 6260.18] Amen -[6271.18 --> 6274.18] Amen -[6301.18 --> 6304.18] Amen -[6331.18 --> 6334.18] Amen -[6361.18 --> 6364.18] Amen diff --git a/Sunday Worship - February 6, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - February 6, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index eb6b9f975bebf290c67791d653d076007e9901d2..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - February 6, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,120 +0,0 @@ -• Following Christ as His body on earth and sharing in His suffering -• Worshiping the God who is past, present, and future -• Praising God for delivering from sin and death -• Celebrating joy in the house of the Lord -• Recognizing redemption through Christ's sacrifice and resurrection -• Offering one's heart completely to God -• The speaker mentions a "Coldest Night of the Year" event, which is being held to combat homelessness in the city. -• A video was shown from last year's event and an invitation is extended for people to participate again this year. -• A women's fellowship group has organized to bless healthcare workers with granola bars and tea bags as a gesture of appreciation for their hard work. -• The speaker invites healthcare workers to stand up and receive applause, and asks everyone in attendance to bring a granola bar or other item to contribute to the collection. -• Revelation of righteous acts -• Worship and praise to God -• Singing a new song to the Lord -• Coming kingdom and will of God being done on earth as in heaven -• Mercy and name of Jesus -• Prayer for daily bread and protection from temptation -• Invocation of God's perfection, holiness, and power -• The speaker recites a hymn about the blood of Jesus washing away sin -• The speaker introduces Friendship Ministries and their mission to promote equality, interdependence, compassion, and hospitality within the body of Christ -• The speaker explains how Friendship Ministries provides resources for faith formation and congregational inclusion with individuals with intellectual disability -• The speaker mentions that this week's offering is for the Langley Food Bank -• The speaker takes a break to interact with children in the audience -• Children discuss their favorite animals and pets -• Some children mention having pets such as dogs, cats, fish, and bunnies -• Discussion turns to how animals survive in the wild, including hunting and eating other animals -• Explanation of predator-prey relationships -• Examples given of different survival strategies used by various animal species -• Discussion about who takes care of animals and people -• Prayer session -• Review of upcoming children's worship time topic: God's role in taking care of creation -• Reports from church council meeting: - • Update on Mexico trip for kids - • Status of capital campaign fundraiser for new chairs - • Upcoming classes and Synod events - • Church budget and expenses - • Requests from Safe Church team and gym usage policies -• Prayer requests from the church community -• Reflection on the purpose of gathering in worship and opening the Bible -• Reading of Exodus 12:1-16 and 28-30 -• Discussion of the significance of the Passover and God's judgment on Egypt -• Mention of specific individuals and their needs (Matthew and Rachel Skipper, Jared Alkma, Pastor Chris) -• The Passover and festival of unleavened bread are to be celebrated as a lasting ordinance -• The plague of the firstborn is described in detail, with all firstborns in Egypt being killed at midnight -• The instructions for celebrating the Passover and festival of unleavened bread seem out of place in the midst of the plagues' narrative -• The author suggests that these instructions are actually intended for future generations, to be passed down as a matter of covenant identity -• The Exodus is seen as a defining moment for the Hebrews, marking a new beginning and redefining their calendar -• The Passover is an experience of this new beginning, and its celebration transcends space and time to define the entire people, past, present, and future. -• The spring solstice marks the beginning of a new calendar year for the Israelites. -• The event of the Passover festival is a callback to the creation story and God's power over chaos. -• The Passover festival involves sacrificing a year-old male lamb, collecting its blood, and painting the door frames with it as a sign of protection from the angel of death. -• The meal eaten during Passover is a reminder of God's faithfulness and is intended to be a lasting ordinance for teaching children about God. -• The Bible mentions that future generations should look forward to what God will do and see what God is doing. -• A passage in the Mishnah says that each generation should regard themselves as if they came out of Egypt, drawing a connection between the Israelites' liberation from slavery and their current situation. -• The Passover's history shows that it was not always practiced regularly throughout Israel's history, with periods where it was neglected or absent. -• The Passover was only explicitly mentioned to be restored under King Josiah and did not become a regular event again until after the Babylonian exile in the 6th century BC. -• Stages in Israel's history and formation -• The significance of the Passover lamb as a reminder of life coming from death -• God's right to the firstborn, including the 10th plague where Egyptian firstborns were killed -• Historical context of monarchies where being the firstborn determined one's life and position -• Recognition of God's right to the firstborn in biblical stories, such as Abraham, Isaac, Moses' son, and the consecration of Israelite firstborns to priestly service -• The pattern of redemption involves a blood sacrifice -• The requirement for blood or death makes sense in light of the broader narrative of the plagues -• The plagues represent a cosmic battle between light and darkness, with God unleashing chaos and disorder to defeat the powers of darkness -• Death is the greatest power of darkness and the epitome of uncreation -• The story of Adam and Eve highlights death as the great enemy and the consequence of sinning -• Death as a reality for all humanity due to sin -• God's power over death, including unleashing it in the tenth plague -• Misconceptions about death being "natural" or "normal" -• The significance of the Passover and Jesus' last supper as a new understanding of this concept -• The Passover is a liturgical reminder of being set free from slavery to an Egyptian pharaoh -• The Lord's Supper builds on this theme and is also a liturgical reminder of being set free, but to something more terrible -• Since the second temple period, the Passover has become a more regular practice in Jewish society -• Jesus and his disciples celebrate the Passover feast at an upper room, where they sit with him -• By Jesus' time, there was a distinct form and liturgy for celebrating the Passover, influenced by rabbinical teachings such as the Mishnah -• The Seder meal and Passover ceremony -• Israel's afflictions, slavery, and God's deliverance -• Jesus' reinterpretation of the third cup during the Last Supper -• References to Deuteronomy 26 and its significance in the context -• The establishment of a new covenant through Christ's blood -• The culmination of something God has been doing through Jesus is now present -• The Passover feast includes three elements: bread, wine, and a lamb -• In the New Testament, the lamb is absent from the table in Jesus' celebration, as he is considered the lamb of God who takes away sin -• John the Baptist referred to Jesus as "the lamb of God" -• Isaiah 53 anticipates Jesus and refers to him as the one bearing the iniquity of all -• Jesus identifies himself as the lamb of God, fulfilling promises made generations before -• The speaker discusses the significance of the Lord's Supper in Christianity -• The lamb of God as a symbol of sacrifice and redemption -• The importance of taking in and appropriating the death and resurrection of Jesus through faith -• The Christian Eucharist is celebrated with a universal family that transcends blood, race, or ethnicity -• Christians are bound together by their shared salvation through Jesus Christ -• The importance of eating bread and drinking the cup in living out God's future work -• The identity given by Jesus through his life, death, resurrection, and exaltation -• The Passover as a way to prioritize this new theological identity -• The weirdness and strangeness of Christian worship to those who are not familiar with it -• The purpose of liturgical interludes to give believers a new identity in God's eyes -• The importance of worship in defining one's life in relationship to God by grace through faith -• The supernatural and natural coexist in worship and liturgy -• God's presence breaks into chaos to give himself -• Invitation to come to the table and behold Jesus -• Prayer for restoration, joy, and guidance -• Embracing the weird and strange as followers of Christ -• Worship through music and praise to God's greatness -• The Lord's Last Supper and the meaning of the bread and cup -• The significance of participating in communion as a sacrament -• The importance of faith, trust, and salvation through Jesus Christ -• A song or hymn about God's love and sacrifice, specifically referencing His wounds and death on the cross -• The speaker's personal testimony of being redeemed by Jesus' death and resurrection -• Communion ceremony and blessings -• The sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross -• Forgiveness of sins through Jesus' blood -• Salvation and redemption -• Resurrection of Jesus Christ -• God's love and presence in life -• Prayer and blessing for those participating in communion -• Repetition of the phrase "Amen" -• References to Jesus Christ as the Lion of Judah -• Mention of Jesus' power and authority -• Quotes from Scripture about Jesus' sacrifice for sin -• Declaration of God's sovereignty and ability to overcome all obstacles -• Repeated phrases including "Go in peace" and "Thank you" \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - February 6, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - February 6, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f068c1885d4b0f184345893710b71a8fc7cee33c..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - February 6, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2284 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 10.00] To follow in the steps of Christ as His body here on earth. -[11.00 --> 26.00] As we share in His suffering, we proclaim Christ will come again and rejoice. -[26.00 --> 43.00] In the face of heaven, around the table of the King, around the table of the King. -[56.00 --> 80.58] The church for whom He has fallen from some sky to -[80.58 --> 90.64] We worship the God who was. -[90.80 --> 93.44] We worship the God who is. -[93.62 --> 97.76] We worship the God who evermore will be. -[99.12 --> 101.64] He opened the prison doors. -[102.14 --> 104.42] He parted the raging sea. -[104.42 --> 108.62] My God, He holds the victory. -[110.58 --> 113.78] There's joy in the house of the Lord. -[113.98 --> 116.60] There's joy in the house of the Lord today. -[117.54 --> 119.20] And we won't be quiet. -[120.26 --> 122.24] We shout out your praise. -[122.50 --> 124.92] There's joy in the house of the Lord. -[125.28 --> 128.48] Our God is surely in this place. -[128.70 --> 130.34] And we won't be quiet. -[130.34 --> 133.34] We shout out your praise. -[135.00 --> 139.56] Oh, we shout out your praise. -[140.58 --> 146.44] Oh, we sing to the God who heals. -[146.64 --> 149.26] We sing to the God who saves. -[149.58 --> 153.62] We sing to the God who always makes a way. -[154.92 --> 157.62] Cause He hung up on that cross. -[157.78 --> 160.42] Then He rose up from that grave. -[160.42 --> 165.58] My God is still rolling stones away. -[166.48 --> 169.60] There's joy in the house of the Lord. -[169.60 --> 172.42] There's joy in the house of the Lord today. -[173.06 --> 174.96] And we won't be quiet. -[175.88 --> 178.04] We shout out your praise. -[178.04 --> 180.60] There's joy in the house of the Lord. -[181.14 --> 184.30] Our God is surely in this place. -[184.30 --> 186.16] And we won't be quiet. -[186.16 --> 189.58] We shout out your praise. -[189.58 --> 196.14] We were the beggars. -[196.14 --> 198.58] Now we're royalty. -[199.26 --> 201.12] We were the prisoners. -[201.86 --> 204.48] Now we're running free. -[204.92 --> 206.48] We are forgiven. -[206.98 --> 208.02] Accepted. -[208.38 --> 210.32] Redeemed by His grace. -[210.32 --> 214.96] Let the house of the Lord sing praise. -[214.96 --> 215.96] Let the house of the Lord sing praise. -[215.96 --> 218.18] Cause we were the beggars. -[218.18 --> 220.96] Now we're royalty. -[220.96 --> 223.48] We were the prisoners. -[223.48 --> 227.02] Now we're running free. -[227.02 --> 228.80] We are forgiven. -[228.80 --> 230.42] Accepted. -[230.42 --> 232.64] Redeemed by His grace. -[232.64 --> 237.06] Let the house of the Lord sing praise. -[237.06 --> 241.00] There's joy in the house of the Lord. -[241.60 --> 241.92] crackediley块 -[241.92 --> 243.76] Destroyed. -[243.76 --> 245.16] income -[245.26 --> 247.44] On the膏 -[247.44 --> 249.08] October -[249.08 --> 251.10] May -[251.10 --> 251.58] come -[251.58 --> 252.02] laundry -[252.02 --> 252.54] Part -[252.54 --> 252.56] Max -[252.56 --> 253.26] Mark -[253.46 --> 254.20] aban -[254.32 --> 254.64] zialhuretti -[254.76 --> 255.14] ANA -[255.88 --> 257.52] 59 -[257.52 --> 259.52] we won't be quiet -[259.52 --> 261.52] We're gonna shout out Your praise -[261.52 --> 264.52] Let's join the house of the Lord -[264.52 --> 268.52] Let's join the house of the Lord today -[268.52 --> 270.52] We won't be quiet -[270.52 --> 273.52] We're gonna shout out Your praise -[273.52 --> 276.52] Let's join the heart of my heart -[276.52 --> 279.52] Shutting in this place -[279.52 --> 282.52] We won't be quiet -[282.52 --> 289.52] We shout out your praise. -[289.52 --> 292.52] There is joy in this house. -[292.52 --> 298.52] There is joy in this house today. -[298.52 --> 303.52] We shout out your praise. -[303.52 --> 307.52] We shout out your praise. -[312.52 --> 322.52] We shout out your praise. -[322.52 --> 341.52] You stood before creation. -[341.52 --> 348.52] Eternity in your hand. -[348.52 --> 353.52] You spoke the earth into motion. -[353.52 --> 359.52] My soul had to stand. -[359.52 --> 371.52] You stood before my failure. -[371.52 --> 377.52] You buried the cross for my sin. -[377.52 --> 383.52] My sin went upon your shoulders. -[383.52 --> 390.52] My soul had to stand. -[390.52 --> 397.52] And what could I say? -[397.52 --> 405.52] And what could I do? -[405.52 --> 421.52] I would offer this heart, oh God, completely to you. -[421.52 --> 428.52] So I walk upon salvation. -[428.52 --> 436.52] Your spirit of life in me. -[436.52 --> 439.52] This life to declare. -[439.52 --> 441.52] Your promise. -[441.52 --> 445.52] My soul now to stand. -[445.52 --> 449.52] Your spirit of life in me. -[449.52 --> 452.52] So what could I say? -[452.52 --> 460.30] And what could I do -[460.30 --> 469.36] And offer this heart, oh God -[469.36 --> 476.70] Completely to you -[476.70 --> 482.34] What could I say -[482.34 --> 490.08] And what could I do -[490.08 --> 499.20] And offer this heart, oh God -[499.20 --> 506.34] Completely to you -[506.34 --> 513.20] Completely to you -[513.20 --> 520.20] Oh, completely to you -[520.20 --> 526.20] Oh, completely to you -[526.20 --> 530.02] So here we are -[530.02 --> 532.84] Stand, stand, stand -[532.84 --> 537.64] And I'll stand with arms -[537.64 --> 540.02] I am not abandoned -[540.02 --> 547.20] In awe of the one who gave it all -[547.74 --> 552.44] I'll stand, my soul Lord -[552.44 --> 554.18] To you surrender -[554.18 --> 558.26] All I have is yours -[558.26 --> 566.02] I'll stand with arms -[566.02 --> 568.44] I am heart abandoned -[568.44 --> 574.98] In awe of the one who gave it all -[574.98 --> 580.80] I'll stand, my soul Lord -[580.80 --> 582.44] To you surrender -[582.44 --> 586.98] I am, is yours -[586.98 --> 593.96] I'll stand with arms -[593.96 --> 595.98] I am heart abandoned -[595.98 --> 596.48] I am not abandoned -[596.48 --> 602.06] In awe of the one who could -[604.06 --> 604.66] Go for it -[604.66 --> 630.06] It's the coldest night of the year and we are about to walk, right Hank? -[630.06 --> 630.66] Right! -[630.66 --> 631.16] Right! -[634.66 --> 637.66] What an awesome job our church did though. -[637.66 --> 638.66] Incredible. -[638.66 --> 641.66] More than doubling our goal amount. -[641.66 --> 642.66] Amazing. -[642.66 --> 662.66] Have fun walking. -[662.66 --> 664.66] Good morning. -[664.66 --> 665.66] Good morning. -[665.66 --> 666.66] There I can see now. -[666.66 --> 667.66] Let me try that again. -[667.66 --> 668.66] Good morning. -[668.66 --> 669.66] Yes. -[669.66 --> 671.66] Malachi is excited. -[671.66 --> 677.66] I hope your half is excited to be here and to worship with us together this morning. -[677.66 --> 680.66] A special welcome if you're visiting with us or if you're joining us online. -[680.66 --> 684.66] We are so excited that you are all here. -[684.66 --> 692.66] That video is a reminder of what we did last year at Coldest Night of the Year and an invitation to participate again. -[692.66 --> 695.66] You may have seen it in the e-bulletin that went out. -[695.66 --> 705.66] If you have any questions about that or what that looks like you can grab me after the service or Nikki Lobert who's not here today but when she is back you can talk to her. -[705.66 --> 708.66] She will have all sorts of details about that. -[708.66 --> 718.66] You can join the team or sponsor a team or whatever and then there will be more details throughout this month as we plan for that event and come together to let that happen. -[718.66 --> 728.66] Either virtually, that is in your own neighborhoods or in other creative ways in WOC to help end and combat homelessness in our city. -[728.66 --> 731.66] There are a couple other announcements that we want to put in front of you. -[731.66 --> 733.66] One of them is going to come from Wendy. -[733.66 --> 736.66] So Wendy, I'm going to invite you to come up to the front. -[736.66 --> 745.66] As she's making her way up here, just a reminder for the youth, there is youth coffee following service today and so stick around for that and connect in that way. -[745.66 --> 746.66] Go ahead, Wendy. -[746.66 --> 747.66] Good morning. -[747.66 --> 757.66] Just wondering, I was just really convicted by a verse in Hebrews about let's stir each other up to do loving deeds. -[757.66 --> 775.66] And in that spirit, we as a women's fellowship group thought we would like to bless the healthcare workers with granola bars and a tea bag and a note of thanks. -[775.66 --> 776.66] And we're collecting them. -[776.66 --> 777.66] And we're collecting them. -[777.66 --> 785.66] We just encourage each one of you and your kids to bring one or lots and we'll just fill the bin in the back. -[785.66 --> 786.66] It's on the back there. -[786.66 --> 788.66] And we would like to deliver it on Valentine's Day. -[788.66 --> 800.66] Just to encourage our healthcare workers who are overworked and very tired and exhausted. -[800.66 --> 806.66] And just right now, I would like to really show our appreciation to you. -[806.66 --> 812.66] I know Amanda is a healthcare worker and I know Larissa Walters and Kim Trask. -[812.66 --> 822.66] I don't know if there's anyone else who is a healthcare worker, but I would really like for you guys to stand up and let's give them a hand. -[822.66 --> 836.66] So we have today and next Sunday to collect them. -[836.66 --> 846.66] And if you're in the area during the week, please drop them by in that bin and we'll deliver them next, on the February 14th. -[846.66 --> 853.66] And also, there's a big poster board in the back too on the table if you'd like to just sign that. -[853.66 --> 857.66] We're going to get the kids in children's worship time to decorate them. -[857.66 --> 868.66] And let's just really pray for the healthcare workers and like from janitors to, you know, to doctors and nurses. -[868.66 --> 876.66] Let's just really show our appreciation and love for them. Thanks. -[876.66 --> 880.66] Thanks, Wendy, for that and for everyone else who is going to participate in that. -[880.66 --> 882.66] Thank you in advance. -[882.66 --> 887.66] It's a unique opportunity and a special privilege for us to be able to support those in our community in that way. -[887.66 --> 892.66] I'm going to invite you as you're able to stand as we come into the presence of our God. -[892.66 --> 898.66] He welcomes us and he greets us with these words. -[898.66 --> 906.66] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son and our Savior, -[906.66 --> 913.66] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. -[913.66 --> 920.66] Our call to worship this morning comes from Revelations 15, verses 3 and 4. -[920.66 --> 925.66] They sang the song of God's servant Moses and of the Lamb. -[925.66 --> 930.66] Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. -[930.66 --> 935.66] Just and true are your ways, King of the nations. -[935.66 --> 940.66] Who will not fear you, Lord, and bring glory to your name? -[940.66 --> 943.66] For you alone are holy. -[943.66 --> 947.66] All nations will come and worship before you. -[947.66 --> 950.66] For your righteous acts have been revealed. -[970.66 --> 976.66] Any Dunn,zinho-Mor grandparents, knowing who lives and sin his love. -[976.66 --> 977.66] Anyone who will enjoy His backbone, spirit can come and worship before you. -[977.66 --> 980.66] graves PapCHY GOD novelixo did their 채wa. -[980.66 --> 982.66] Will not fear you, Lord, and pray your love organ, Babayi Christ can speak. -[982.66 --> 983.66] All nations will welcome you if you are singing. -[983.66 --> 984.66] If you are singing, God排行, God Almighty Lord Isaac. -[984.66 --> 985.66] You should be singing, God Almighty God Almighty. -[985.66 --> 986.66] In the depths of your потр binds and worship foods in heaven. -[986.66 --> 988.66] God Almighty Almighty, God Almighty, God Almighty Almighty, You are singing. -[988.66 --> 990.66] Lord God Almighty, God Almighty Almighty. -[990.66 --> 994.66] God Almighty Almighty Almighty Almighty, God Almighty Almighty microbi 싱 multitudes modernights to Him. -[994.66 --> 999.66] God Almighty Almighty Isaiah, Him really knows God helping us ring the Holy Spirit we lift us to the way. -[999.66 --> 1006.02] Come and let your glory come and let your glory fall. -[1008.02 --> 1012.72] I will sing, sing a new song. -[1012.92 --> 1017.34] I will sing, sing a new song. -[1017.68 --> 1024.08] I will sing, sing a new song to the Lord. -[1024.08 --> 1031.32] Let your kingdom come, let your hope run. -[1031.66 --> 1035.22] On earth as it is in heaven. -[1035.88 --> 1040.24] Every heart will reign, the mercy of your name. -[1040.80 --> 1044.40] On earth as it is in heaven. -[1054.08 --> 1058.46] God give us new every morning. -[1059.80 --> 1062.68] Mercy as daily bread. -[1064.20 --> 1069.48] In the name of Jesus, in the name of Jesus we pray. -[1072.46 --> 1076.10] And feed us not in temptation. -[1077.38 --> 1080.82] But deliver us with your hand. -[1080.82 --> 1087.54] In the name of Jesus, in the name of Jesus we pray. -[1088.06 --> 1089.78] Father we pray. -[1090.34 --> 1094.60] I will sing, sing a new song. -[1094.86 --> 1099.12] I will sing, sing a new song. -[1099.12 --> 1107.32] I will sing, sing a new song to the Lord. -[1107.32 --> 1112.64] That your kingdom come, that your will be done. -[1113.00 --> 1116.82] On earth as it is in heaven. -[1117.34 --> 1121.72] Every heart proclaims the mercy of your name. -[1122.10 --> 1125.96] On earth as it is in heaven. -[1126.72 --> 1131.24] For the kingdom is yours and the power is yours. -[1131.46 --> 1134.94] And the glory forever are best. -[1134.94 --> 1140.46] For the kingdom is yours and the power is yours. -[1140.46 --> 1143.92] And the glory forever are best. -[1143.92 --> 1149.38] For the kingdom is yours and the power is yours. -[1149.38 --> 1151.38] And the glory forever are best. -[1151.38 --> 1152.38] And the glory forever are best. -[1152.38 --> 1158.38] And the kingdom is yours and the power is yours. -[1158.38 --> 1161.38] And the glory forever are best. -[1161.38 --> 1166.38] I will sing, sing a new song. -[1166.38 --> 1171.38] I will sing, sing a new song. -[1171.38 --> 1178.38] I will sing, sing a new song to the Lord. -[1178.38 --> 1180.38] Let your kingdom come. -[1180.38 --> 1182.38] Let your kingdom come. -[1182.38 --> 1184.38] Let your will be done. -[1184.38 --> 1188.38] On earth as it is in heaven. -[1188.38 --> 1193.38] Every heart proclaims the mercy of your name. -[1193.38 --> 1198.88] On earth as it is in heaven. -[1198.88 --> 1222.38] On earth as it is in heaven. -[1222.38 --> 1252.36] Thank you. -[1252.38 --> 1282.36] Thank you. -[1282.38 --> 1291.38] I know you are perfect in holiness. -[1292.86 --> 1301.38] You're high in me, standing free, making me holy. -[1301.38 --> 1309.86] Only the blood of Jesus, thou who's all of my sin. -[1312.16 --> 1320.38] Only the life of Jesus, renews me from within. -[1320.38 --> 1324.38] Your blood is denied. -[1326.86 --> 1330.38] Your mercy will complete. -[1332.00 --> 1334.38] Your work of atonement. -[1336.06 --> 1340.38] Pay for my guests, making me holy. -[1340.38 --> 1347.38] Only the blood of Jesus. -[1347.38 --> 1360.38] Holiness is your life in me, making me clear through your blood. -[1361.86 --> 1369.38] Holiness is your heart in me, purging my heart like a flower. -[1369.38 --> 1379.38] I know you are perfect in holiness. -[1379.38 --> 1391.38] Holiness is your life in me, making me holy. -[1391.38 --> 1399.86] Only the blood of Jesus, covers all of my sin. -[1399.86 --> 1409.86] Only the blood of Jesus, renews me from within. -[1409.86 --> 1411.86] Your blood is enough. -[1411.86 --> 1413.86] Your blood is enough. -[1413.86 --> 1419.86] Your mercy complete. -[1419.86 --> 1423.86] Your blood of atonement. -[1423.86 --> 1424.86] Your blood of atonement. -[1424.86 --> 1429.86] Pay for my debts, making me holy. -[1429.86 --> 1431.86] Only the blood of atonement. -[1431.86 --> 1436.86] Only the blood of Jesus. -[1436.86 --> 1442.86] Hear these words from 1 Peter 1. -[1442.86 --> 1447.86] For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were -[1447.86 --> 1452.86] redeemed from the empty way of life, handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the -[1452.86 --> 1458.86] precious blood of Jesus Christ, a lamb who's without blemish or defect. -[1458.86 --> 1464.86] He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake. -[1464.86 --> 1469.86] Through him, you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him. -[1469.86 --> 1473.86] And so your faith and hope are in God. -[1482.86 --> 1505.86] What can wash away my sin? -[1505.86 --> 1509.86] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[1509.86 --> 1513.86] What can make me whole again? -[1513.86 --> 1517.86] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[1517.86 --> 1528.86] Oh, precious is the flow that makes me white as snow. -[1528.86 --> 1532.86] Though of earth, lount I grow. -[1532.86 --> 1538.86] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[1538.86 --> 1544.86] For my heart and this I see. -[1544.86 --> 1548.86] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[1548.86 --> 1552.86] For my cleansing this my plea. -[1552.86 --> 1557.86] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[1557.86 --> 1567.86] Oh, precious is the flow that makes me white as snow. -[1567.86 --> 1571.86] No other fount I know. -[1571.86 --> 1577.86] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[1577.86 --> 1583.86] Nothing can for sin atone. -[1583.86 --> 1587.86] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[1587.86 --> 1588.86] Blood of good that I have done. -[1588.86 --> 1589.86] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[1589.86 --> 1591.86] Blood of good that I have done. -[1591.86 --> 1593.86] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[1593.86 --> 1594.86] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[1594.86 --> 1596.86] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[1596.86 --> 1597.86] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[1597.86 --> 1603.86] Oh, precious is the blood of Jesus. -[1603.86 --> 1604.86] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[1604.86 --> 1605.86] Threats me white as snow. -[1605.86 --> 1607.86] Threats me white as snow. -[1607.86 --> 1611.86] No other fount I know. -[1611.86 --> 1615.86] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[1615.86 --> 1624.30] This is all my hope and peace -[1624.30 --> 1628.08] Nothing but the blood of Jesus -[1628.08 --> 1632.42] This is all my righteousness -[1632.42 --> 1636.90] Nothing but the blood of Jesus -[1636.90 --> 1641.66] Oh, precious is the flow -[1641.66 --> 1645.90] That makes me white as snow -[1645.90 --> 1652.38] No other fount I know -[1652.38 --> 1656.30] Nothing but the blood of Jesus -[1656.30 --> 1661.10] Oh, precious is the flow -[1661.10 --> 1665.62] That makes me white as snow -[1665.62 --> 1672.44] No other fount I know -[1672.44 --> 1676.58] Nothing but the blood of Jesus -[1676.58 --> 1681.52] You may have a seat -[1681.52 --> 1706.92] We continue this worship service with the giving of our tithes and offerings. -[1706.92 --> 1713.96] This morning's offerings are first for our church's budget and second for Friendship Ministries. -[1713.96 --> 1720.20] For decades, Friendship Ministries has worked to promote the ideals of equality, interdependence, -[1720.20 --> 1724.28] compassion and hospitality within the body of Christ. -[1724.28 --> 1730.54] With a vision for people with and without intellectual disability to grow deeper in their relationship -[1730.54 --> 1734.16] with God and with each other in the community together. -[1734.16 --> 1740.46] Friendship Ministries has provided resources that support faith formation and congregational inclusion -[1740.46 --> 1745.98] with individuals with intellectual disability. -[1745.98 --> 1752.10] They believe that faith is a gift from God that does not depend on any level of human intelligence. -[1752.10 --> 1757.72] Their program model encourages development of one-on-one personal and meaningful relationships, -[1757.72 --> 1759.64] true friendships. -[1759.64 --> 1765.94] They strongly believe that all humans are created in the image of God and are created uniquely and equally -[1765.94 --> 1768.32] for God's particular purposes. -[1768.32 --> 1773.32] They believe that any barriers that impede on this equality are unjust. -[1773.32 --> 1776.46] From Colossians 3 verse 12 to 14, -[1776.46 --> 1782.76] Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, -[1782.76 --> 1785.76] humility, gentleness and patience. -[1785.76 --> 1792.14] Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has any grievance against someone. -[1792.14 --> 1794.42] Forgive as the Lord forgave you. -[1794.42 --> 1800.38] And over all these virtues, put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. -[1800.38 --> 1802.98] This week's offering is for the Langley Food Bank. -[1802.98 --> 1803.56] Please give cheerfully. -[1803.56 --> 1805.56] Thank you. -[1805.56 --> 1812.64] God bless you. -[1812.86 --> 1820.74] God bless you. -[1820.74 --> 1824.74] God bless you. -[1824.74 --> 1826.74] Amen. -[1854.74 --> 1856.74] Amen. -[1884.74 --> 1886.74] Amen. -[1914.74 --> 1916.74] Amen. -[1944.74 --> 1965.06] Amen. -[1968.06 --> 1969.60] Hey, kids. -[1969.60 --> 1970.96] Come up front. -[1971.10 --> 1972.24] I'm ready for you. -[1972.24 --> 1978.38] I love you, buddy. -[1983.30 --> 1984.64] Oh, my button. -[1985.46 --> 1986.62] Your button? -[1990.36 --> 1991.62] That's him. -[1992.96 --> 1995.06] Hi, everyone. -[1995.60 --> 1995.98] Hi. -[1996.66 --> 1997.66] How are you doing? -[1997.86 --> 1998.18] Good. -[1998.18 --> 1999.28] Guess what, Hank? -[1999.44 --> 2000.04] What, Hayley? -[2000.46 --> 2001.88] I got loose, too. -[2001.88 --> 2003.34] You got a loose tooth? -[2003.70 --> 2004.60] I got two. -[2004.74 --> 2005.72] Those are delicious. -[2007.46 --> 2007.90] Two? -[2008.34 --> 2011.50] Zoe has a loose tooth, too? -[2011.68 --> 2011.92] Yeah. -[2012.12 --> 2014.60] I got one in London, Ontario. -[2014.94 --> 2018.30] Everybody, put up your hand if you've ever had a loose tooth. -[2018.80 --> 2020.42] I've had six. -[2021.86 --> 2022.76] All right. -[2023.46 --> 2025.16] Should we see how many parents have had one? -[2025.74 --> 2029.50] Everybody in the church, put up your hand if you've ever had a loose tooth. -[2031.88 --> 2032.50] Wow. -[2033.64 --> 2034.92] That's so many. -[2035.22 --> 2036.24] Guess what? -[2036.34 --> 2039.30] I got two loose tooth here. -[2039.98 --> 2040.42] Uh-huh. -[2040.50 --> 2041.30] And here. -[2041.50 --> 2042.52] And there, too? -[2042.72 --> 2043.42] Right here. -[2043.80 --> 2044.44] Cool. -[2044.66 --> 2045.48] Back in the camera. -[2045.48 --> 2046.64] Let's go. -[2046.64 --> 2050.30] All right. -[2050.46 --> 2053.30] I think we need to talk about something else now. -[2054.26 --> 2054.56] One. -[2054.56 --> 2054.88] Teddy. -[2054.88 --> 2056.50] So Hank wanted... -[2056.50 --> 2056.98] Teddy! -[2057.88 --> 2058.48] Hi! -[2059.44 --> 2060.54] You could be my friend. -[2062.36 --> 2062.90] All right. -[2062.96 --> 2066.36] Hank wanted to talk to you about something that's very important to him. -[2066.74 --> 2068.58] Something that matters a lot to him. -[2068.68 --> 2071.20] And it's something that we're going to talk about in children's worship time, too. -[2071.36 --> 2072.48] But he has a question for you all. -[2072.52 --> 2072.84] That's right. -[2072.90 --> 2073.20] Right, Hank? -[2073.44 --> 2073.92] I do. -[2074.20 --> 2074.50] All right. -[2074.58 --> 2074.94] Are you ready? -[2074.94 --> 2074.98] Are you ready? -[2076.02 --> 2078.94] What is your favorite animal? -[2079.42 --> 2079.80] Bunny. -[2080.12 --> 2080.52] Bunny. -[2080.74 --> 2081.70] The one that's here. -[2081.86 --> 2082.16] Bunny. -[2082.16 --> 2082.52] Bunny? -[2082.52 --> 2084.34] Oh, I love chasing bunnies. -[2084.80 --> 2085.38] Bunny. -[2085.64 --> 2086.04] Bunny. -[2086.64 --> 2087.56] My stuffies. -[2087.90 --> 2088.46] Stuffies. -[2089.12 --> 2089.54] Yep. -[2090.96 --> 2091.52] Cheetah. -[2091.64 --> 2092.74] That's like a cat. -[2093.44 --> 2094.36] Yeah, Allie. -[2095.18 --> 2095.78] Fish. -[2096.50 --> 2097.24] Do you have a fish? -[2098.42 --> 2099.18] Kitties. -[2099.62 --> 2101.30] Why does everyone love cats? -[2101.70 --> 2102.06] Kitty. -[2103.00 --> 2103.40] Kitty. -[2103.60 --> 2103.92] Kitty. -[2104.22 --> 2105.32] I have a fish. -[2105.32 --> 2105.98] I have a fish. -[2105.98 --> 2106.26] Nora. -[2106.78 --> 2107.44] I have a fish. -[2107.44 --> 2107.86] Pardon me. -[2108.12 --> 2108.46] Horses. -[2108.70 --> 2109.30] Horses. -[2109.36 --> 2110.00] Those are huge. -[2110.18 --> 2110.82] I have fish. -[2110.82 --> 2111.80] I have fish. -[2111.80 --> 2113.06] You have a fish too? -[2113.26 --> 2113.94] Fish mouth. -[2114.32 --> 2114.62] Yeah? -[2115.12 --> 2116.24] Go ahead, Amara. -[2117.28 --> 2117.76] Yeah! -[2118.94 --> 2119.42] Finally! -[2119.94 --> 2121.54] Someone said dog. -[2121.68 --> 2122.26] I have a dog. -[2122.36 --> 2124.40] Well, why didn't you mention that before? -[2125.46 --> 2126.36] Hey, please. -[2126.92 --> 2127.64] Yeah, one more. -[2127.98 --> 2128.26] Cass? -[2128.26 --> 2129.10] I have a dog. -[2129.76 --> 2131.48] A dog and two cats? -[2131.96 --> 2133.20] Do the dogs chase the cat? -[2134.30 --> 2134.78] No? -[2134.94 --> 2135.72] What is he doing? -[2135.72 --> 2135.80] Good. -[2137.50 --> 2142.72] So, we're going to talk about something in children's worship time about... -[2143.58 --> 2144.94] Oh, can we talk about that in a second? -[2145.18 --> 2145.80] Some sad news? -[2145.92 --> 2146.72] Yeah, I'll ask you in one second. -[2146.78 --> 2146.92] Okay. -[2147.16 --> 2148.40] We're going to talk about some animals. -[2148.50 --> 2149.52] Now, here's a question. -[2149.66 --> 2152.38] In the wild, how do animals survive? -[2152.96 --> 2153.12] Yeah? -[2155.62 --> 2156.44] By hunting. -[2157.06 --> 2157.34] Okay. -[2157.78 --> 2157.96] Yeah? -[2158.96 --> 2159.94] Eating each other. -[2160.02 --> 2160.86] Yeah, very aggressive. -[2160.86 --> 2161.14] Yeah? -[2161.36 --> 2166.78] One of them animals are predators, and one of them is the evil one who eats predators. -[2167.06 --> 2171.00] So, someone's a predator, and someone eats the predators, and the predators eat some food, too. -[2171.06 --> 2171.22] Yeah? -[2171.34 --> 2171.50] Yeah? -[2171.64 --> 2171.80] Maybe? -[2172.88 --> 2178.70] Some animals like koalas go very still on. -[2179.14 --> 2180.24] They sure do. -[2181.02 --> 2181.58] Yeah, Malachi? -[2182.66 --> 2184.54] Cougars can jump over fences. -[2184.54 --> 2185.96] Cougars can jump over fences. -[2185.96 --> 2187.22] That is very true. -[2187.22 --> 2189.60] Now, who provides... -[2189.60 --> 2190.92] So, some animals eat other animals. -[2191.02 --> 2194.14] Other animals eat things like grass or seeds or things like that, right? -[2194.18 --> 2194.60] Is that true? -[2195.16 --> 2196.66] That sounds yummy to me. -[2196.76 --> 2197.60] I'll eat anything. -[2198.12 --> 2198.30] Yeah? -[2206.06 --> 2207.44] Don't say that! -[2207.66 --> 2209.28] A snake wouldn't eat me! -[2209.28 --> 2215.52] So, who do you think provides all of the grass and the seeds for these animals to eat? -[2216.30 --> 2217.22] God does! -[2217.56 --> 2219.62] God takes care of all the animals. -[2220.02 --> 2221.04] Now, what does that mean for you? -[2221.12 --> 2221.96] Who takes care of you? -[2222.22 --> 2222.54] Me! -[2222.84 --> 2223.48] You do! -[2223.74 --> 2225.12] You take care of you! -[2225.42 --> 2226.48] Mom and Dad! -[2226.84 --> 2228.50] Mom and Dad take care of you! -[2228.58 --> 2230.42] Yeah, who takes care of Mom and Dad? -[2230.94 --> 2231.38] God! -[2231.74 --> 2232.22] God! -[2232.22 --> 2235.96] So, we're going to talk about that a little bit in children's worship time today. -[2236.06 --> 2237.34] Yeah, Cass, last thing. -[2239.28 --> 2249.02] An anaconda will kill a jaguar if it has to. -[2249.06 --> 2249.40] You know what? -[2249.58 --> 2254.06] I am very excited for going into the back room and hearing all about these animal facts -[2254.06 --> 2255.22] from you in one second, okay? -[2255.48 --> 2257.06] But before we do that, let's pray. -[2257.10 --> 2257.90] Is that a good idea, Hank? -[2258.62 --> 2261.10] Okay, so let's pray and then we'll go to children's worship time. -[2261.34 --> 2261.78] Okay? -[2262.16 --> 2264.78] Everybody close your eyes, hold your hands. -[2265.42 --> 2266.38] All of your parents, too. -[2266.60 --> 2267.06] Good job. -[2267.22 --> 2267.56] Let's pray. -[2267.56 --> 2269.34] Dear God, thank you for this day. -[2269.42 --> 2272.64] Thank you that we could be in church today and we can learn about how you take care of -[2272.64 --> 2273.14] everything. -[2273.26 --> 2274.32] You take care of your creation. -[2274.74 --> 2276.12] You take care of us, your people. -[2276.24 --> 2280.30] And we pray, God, that as we learn more about that today and as people who stay here in the -[2280.30 --> 2283.88] sanctuary learn more about you, we just pray that you'll give us open ears and hearts -[2283.88 --> 2287.10] to learn what it means to love and follow you and others. -[2287.24 --> 2288.12] We pray this in your name. -[2288.46 --> 2288.66] Amen. -[2289.08 --> 2290.22] Okay, let's do the blessing. -[2290.22 --> 2291.12] Everyone stand. -[2295.04 --> 2295.54] All right. -[2295.78 --> 2296.48] Are you all ready? -[2297.20 --> 2297.70] All right. -[2297.78 --> 2299.08] So let's face the congregation. -[2299.26 --> 2300.96] Put our hands up and we're going to say the Lord be with you. -[2301.00 --> 2302.06] Are you ready at the same time? -[2302.62 --> 2304.64] The Lord be with you. -[2306.60 --> 2307.56] Say bye, Hank. -[2307.82 --> 2308.68] Bye, Hank. -[2308.74 --> 2309.36] Bye, everyone. -[2309.36 --> 2332.26] Thank you, Hank, for that show this morning. -[2332.46 --> 2336.14] It's great to see that the kids are getting more and more comfortable up front of the church, -[2336.22 --> 2337.88] so that's also great to see. -[2338.58 --> 2339.32] My name's Eric. -[2339.42 --> 2343.40] I'm the chair of council, and I just want to let you all know that we had a meeting this -[2343.40 --> 2347.14] week, and I'm just going to take this time to give you a little bit of a summary of the -[2347.14 --> 2351.58] meeting that we had so you know what we've been talking about and working on. -[2352.64 --> 2357.40] First off, we had a report from Brandon Muller about the Mexico trip, and he did a good job -[2357.40 --> 2360.60] sharing the vision and what's going to be happening there. -[2360.60 --> 2365.60] It seems like everything's good to go, and the leaders, parents, and the kids are all -[2365.60 --> 2366.56] excited about this trip. -[2366.56 --> 2369.96] So thank you for all those who are putting effort into that. -[2371.22 --> 2377.32] Got some reports from Kevin and Pastor Chris as well this week, and all things seem to be -[2377.32 --> 2381.68] going well, and they're feeling encouraged by us all here, so that's great news. -[2381.68 --> 2395.16] Some of you may be interested in where the capital campaign, the fundraiser is for the new chairs, and it seems like we're about halfway there, so we'll just keep working on that program and see how that goes over the next few months. -[2395.16 --> 2416.16] Classes and Synod are, classes for sure is coming up in March, so we have some delegates from our council that are going to be going to that, and the Synod is also coming up this summer, so we put the invite out to anyone who is interested in going to that as well. -[2416.16 --> 2432.12] Some other things that are important notes that we want to pass on to you that came up as discussion topics at the meeting is that we wanted to thank you all for all the meeting our church budget and all the expenses from 2021. -[2432.12 --> 2449.32] And for 2022 in January, we're a little bit behind, so we're asking that you can get back onto your regular giving habits and continue to contribute to the church here as we have expenses that happen every month, so we're asking that you make that a priority. -[2449.32 --> 2466.36] The Safe Church team is asking for everyone who is a volunteer here to make sure your criminal record check process is happening because they need that to be participating in volunteer programs here. -[2466.36 --> 2489.64] As well, Sylvie would like us all to know that if you're going to book space in the gym, or in the gym, volleyball coach, if you're going to book space at the church that you make sure you talk to Sylvie in advance to make sure that you can get time in the church because we've had some double bookings happen in the past and that's kind of inconvenient. -[2489.64 --> 2496.64] And the last thing was we had a request from Gateway Church. -[2496.64 --> 2502.64] There's an Abbotsford disaster relief fund set up for the flood victims in Abbotsford. -[2502.64 --> 2509.64] So there's a board being set up and they're looking for volunteers that would be wanting to participate in that board in terms of dispersing those funds. -[2509.64 --> 2513.64] So we're looking for someone from our church that might be interested in that opportunity. -[2513.64 --> 2515.64] Thank you. -[2515.64 --> 2527.64] Good morning. -[2527.64 --> 2528.64] My name is Darrell. -[2528.64 --> 2529.64] I'm an elder here at Emmanuel. -[2529.64 --> 2532.64] It's my privilege to lead in today's church family prayer. -[2532.64 --> 2534.64] Let's go to God in prayer. -[2534.64 --> 2538.64] Almighty God, we come to you this morning as your people. -[2538.64 --> 2545.64] It is good to praise you, Lord, and make music to your name, to proclaim your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night. -[2545.64 --> 2549.64] Thank you for the sunshine today and the beauty of your creation. -[2549.64 --> 2555.64] Keep us one in faith and service, breaking bread together and proclaiming the good news to the world. -[2555.64 --> 2557.64] Be with the unrest in our world, Lord. -[2557.64 --> 2563.64] We think of the tensions in Ukraine and pray for peaceful resolutions to the ongoing conflicts. -[2563.64 --> 2571.64] We pray that you direct those in our government and those in authority, that they be guided by your wisdom and not ours and not theirs. -[2571.64 --> 2578.64] During these difficult times through an ongoing pandemic, we pray for unity and understanding for one another. -[2578.64 --> 2583.64] Help us to seek you first and love one another as we yearn to be loved. -[2583.64 --> 2588.64] Be with those in healthcare who are continuing to take care of those dealing with ongoing sickness. -[2588.64 --> 2593.64] And please be with those experienced various health concerns or awaiting treatment. -[2593.64 --> 2599.64] It is difficult to live in pain and pray that you give them an extra measure of your patience and strength. -[2599.64 --> 2604.64] Be with those that are shut in and those dealing with long-term health conditions. -[2604.64 --> 2611.64] We also bring to you this morning Matthew and Rachel Skipper as they continue to battle through Rachel's ongoing decline in health. -[2611.64 --> 2618.64] As they come to Vancouver this week for additional treatments for Rachel, we pray that she be given healing and further answers for her condition. -[2618.64 --> 2627.64] We praise you, Lord, that Jared Alkma is settling in well in Costa Rica and pray that he can be your light there and be blessed in his time serving you. -[2627.64 --> 2634.64] We pray for Pastor Chris and his new role for the CRC Search Committee as they look for a new executive director. -[2634.64 --> 2636.64] May you guide them in their search. -[2636.64 --> 2639.64] Please be also with Pastor Chris as he brings us your word this morning. -[2639.64 --> 2643.64] May he be filled with the Spirit and overflowing with your wisdom. -[2643.64 --> 2646.64] We also are glad to gather around your table this morning. -[2646.64 --> 2652.64] May we come to the table as we are sinful, broken, and in need of your saving grace. -[2652.64 --> 2654.64] Thank you for sending your son to save us. -[2654.64 --> 2658.64] We pray all these things in Jesus' name. Amen. -[2669.64 --> 2682.64] May we come to the table as we are faithful. -[2682.64 --> 2690.64] We are going to spend some time together continuing our look in the book of Exodus. -[2690.64 --> 2700.64] We are going to read some verses from chapter 12 of Exodus. -[2700.64 --> 2704.64] I'm going to invite you to open a Bible and have that in front of you. -[2704.64 --> 2707.64] It will be on the screen as we go through. -[2707.64 --> 2718.64] But I do think it's important to have that there as we reflect on what God is saying to us together this morning. -[2718.64 --> 2734.64] As I was thinking about this service and about the content of very familiar passages in Scripture and really well-known stories to many of us, -[2734.64 --> 2741.64] I was struck again by the question, why are we here? -[2741.64 --> 2748.64] What is the purpose of this regular rhythm of gathering in worship of our God? -[2748.64 --> 2753.64] Why do we come together and why do we make much of opening the Bible? -[2753.64 --> 2757.64] Why does it matter that we come to the table? What is going on? -[2757.64 --> 2764.64] Is there something more than just the actions of coming to this place? -[2764.64 --> 2775.64] And it's in that context and in that question that I want us to sit as we come to this very familiar text and story in Exodus 12. -[2775.64 --> 2783.64] I'm going to read the first 16 verses of Exodus 12 and then I'll jump to the end to get the last two verses of that. -[2783.64 --> 2787.64] Let's read. -[2787.64 --> 2790.64] The Lord said to Moses and Aaron in Egypt, -[2790.64 --> 2797.64] This month is to be for you the first month, the first month of your year. -[2797.64 --> 2806.64] Tell the whole community of Israel that on the tenth day of this month, each man is to take a lamb for his family, one for each household. -[2806.64 --> 2815.64] If any household is too small for a whole lamb, they must share one with their nearest neighbor, having taken into account the number of people they are. -[2815.64 --> 2822.64] You are to determine the amount of lamb needed in accordance with what each person will eat. -[2822.64 --> 2830.64] The animals you choose must be year old males without defect, and you may take them from the sheep or the goats. -[2830.64 --> 2838.64] Take care of them until the fourteenth day of the month, when all the members of the community of Israel must slaughter them at twilight. -[2838.64 --> 2845.64] Then they are to take some of the blood and put it on the sides and tops of the door frames of the houses where they eat the lamb. -[2845.64 --> 2854.64] That same night they are to eat the meat roasted over the fire along with bitter herbs and bread made without yeast. -[2854.64 --> 2862.64] Do not eat the meat raw or boiled in water, but roast it over a fire with the head, the legs and the internal organs. -[2862.64 --> 2865.64] Do not leave any of it till morning. -[2865.64 --> 2869.64] If some is left till morning, you must burn it. -[2869.64 --> 2871.64] This is how you are to eat it. -[2871.64 --> 2878.64] With your cloak tucked into your belt and your sandals on your feet and your staff in your hand, eat it in haste. -[2878.64 --> 2880.64] It is the Lord's Passover. -[2881.64 --> 2887.64] On the same night I will pass through Egypt and strike down every firstborn of both people and animals, -[2887.64 --> 2891.64] and I will bring judgment on all the gods of Egypt. -[2891.64 --> 2894.64] I am the Lord. -[2894.64 --> 2898.64] The blood will be assigned for you on the houses where you are, -[2898.64 --> 2901.64] and when I see the blood, I will pass over you. -[2901.64 --> 2906.64] No destructive plague will touch you when I strike Egypt. -[2906.64 --> 2909.64] This is a day that you are to commemorate. -[2909.64 --> 2915.64] For generations to come, you shall celebrate it as a festival to the Lord, a lasting ordinance. -[2915.64 --> 2919.64] For seven days you are to eat bread made without yeast. -[2919.64 --> 2921.64] On the first day, remove the yeast from your houses, -[2921.64 --> 2927.64] for whoever eats anything with yeast in it from the first day through the seventh must be cut off from Israel. -[2927.64 --> 2933.64] On the first day, hold a sacred assembly, and another one on the seventh. -[2933.64 --> 2938.64] Do no work at all on these days except to prepare food for everyone to eat. -[2938.64 --> 2940.64] That is all you may do. -[2940.64 --> 2944.64] And then jumping to verse 29. -[2944.64 --> 2950.64] At midnight, the Lord struck down all the firstborn in Egypt. -[2950.64 --> 2955.64] From the firstborn of Pharaoh who sat on the throne to the firstborn of the prisoner who was in the dungeon, -[2955.64 --> 2958.64] and the firstborn of all the livestock as well. -[2958.64 --> 2963.64] Pharaoh and all his officials and all the Egyptians got up during the night, -[2963.64 --> 2965.64] and there was loud wailing in Egypt, -[2965.64 --> 2970.64] for there was not a house without someone dead. -[2970.64 --> 2975.64] This is the word of the Lord. -[2975.64 --> 2980.64] Now I want to acknowledge that there are times when we read scripture, -[2980.64 --> 2983.64] and I say, this is the word of the Lord, -[2983.64 --> 2991.64] and your somewhat intuitive or unthought response, thanks be to God, sounds a little strange. -[2991.64 --> 2995.64] This is one of those times. -[2995.64 --> 3001.64] For there was not a house without someone dead, thanks be to God. -[3001.64 --> 3003.64] This is a weird story. -[3003.64 --> 3007.64] And it's weird, not just because of things like that, -[3007.64 --> 3014.64] but because we have been in this really intense and fast-paced drama, right, -[3014.64 --> 3018.64] in the plagues moving from catastrophe to catastrophe. -[3018.64 --> 3023.64] And then we didn't read it, but chapter 11 recounts the plague of the firstborn -[3023.64 --> 3025.64] and how it will come through. -[3025.64 --> 3027.64] And then here we end with it taking place. -[3027.64 --> 3037.64] But in the middle, in the first 28 or so verses of chapter 12, there's this stop. -[3037.64 --> 3042.64] It's like we've been rushing towards something only to just put a full stop, -[3042.64 --> 3048.64] and we get these instructions for the Passover and for the festival of the unleavened bread. -[3048.64 --> 3052.64] Now it's a fair question to ask in this moment, right? -[3052.64 --> 3060.64] Why on earth would you stop this sort of emergency planning and emergency level narrative story -[3060.64 --> 3063.64] to give liturgical instructions? -[3065.64 --> 3066.64] Why would you stop? -[3066.64 --> 3072.64] Why would the author stop to make this particular point? -[3072.64 --> 3082.64] Now I think it's the answer to that question that's a good way into this text for us this morning. -[3082.64 --> 3086.64] Because you see, I wanna suggest to you that the point of this celebration, -[3086.64 --> 3091.64] the point of the elaborate details of its record and its institution -[3091.64 --> 3097.64] and how it is to be practiced isn't in the moment immediately for Moses -[3097.64 --> 3101.64] or for the Israelites who are there waiting to go. -[3102.64 --> 3105.86] But it is for the benefit of the people to come. -[3106.58 --> 3109.26] For the benefit of future generations. -[3110.88 --> 3111.04] Right? -[3111.14 --> 3117.82] This kind of God's-eyed view of what is taking place is hinted at throughout the story of the plagues. -[3117.82 --> 3124.08] If you remember where we looked last time, or if you've been reading this week, as I encourage you to do, -[3124.44 --> 3127.78] in chapter 10, the Lord tells Moses, -[3127.78 --> 3135.88] Go to Pharaoh, for I have hardened his heart and the hearts of his officials, so that I may perform these miraculous signs of mine among them, -[3136.14 --> 3144.06] that you may tell your children and your grandchildren how I dealt harshly with the Egyptians, -[3144.20 --> 3149.82] and how I performed these many signs among them, that you may know that I am the Lord. -[3149.82 --> 3158.12] Chapter 12 and chapter 13 to follow are full of references of telling children and grandchildren, -[3158.34 --> 3163.72] of passing on this moment in time as a matter of covenant identity. -[3164.18 --> 3171.02] God's work in the world through the plagues, and now, most pointedly, in this, the tenth plague, the final plague, -[3171.02 --> 3180.54] and in the Passover connected to it, are always, and have always been, acts intended to sort of transcend space and time. -[3180.90 --> 3185.38] They're acts that define more than just the people who participated in them the first time around. -[3186.80 --> 3191.72] They're acts that define an entire people, past, present, and future. -[3191.94 --> 3195.00] This, here, is a defining moment. -[3195.00 --> 3197.88] It is an identity moment for the Hebrews. -[3198.68 --> 3202.48] And that's made all the more clear by the line from verse 2. -[3204.88 --> 3206.12] The Lord says to Moses and Aaron, -[3206.38 --> 3209.94] This is to be for you the first month. -[3210.62 --> 3213.56] The first month of your year. -[3215.28 --> 3218.40] God is redefining the calendar in this moment. -[3218.40 --> 3224.40] Now, it's very likely that the Hebrews, because of their 430-odd years in Egypt, -[3224.52 --> 3228.56] have adopted the Egyptian calendar frame, -[3228.66 --> 3231.62] and so this is where we get something new from God. -[3232.32 --> 3237.22] And the Exodus is to mark a new beginning for these people. -[3237.62 --> 3241.58] The Passover is the experience of that new beginning. -[3241.58 --> 3246.34] In the Hebrew calendar, the month is called Abib or Aviv, -[3246.76 --> 3249.62] depending on how you want to pronounce continental vowels. -[3250.18 --> 3252.64] And in Aramaic, it's called Nisan, -[3253.28 --> 3257.58] and it occurs during the spring solstice. -[3257.68 --> 3258.10] There it is. -[3258.92 --> 3263.38] During the spring solstice, which is sometime in our April or March. -[3263.38 --> 3269.50] Every glance at the calendar from this moment forward -[3269.50 --> 3273.78] will remind the Israelites of this defining event. -[3275.12 --> 3280.06] And just like the plagues were a callback to the power of God over the chaoses, -[3280.62 --> 3284.32] or where did we read it? -[3284.38 --> 3288.06] That he has defeated the gods of Egypt. -[3288.50 --> 3291.52] He's brought judgment on all the gods of Egypt in verse 12. -[3291.52 --> 3294.34] Just like we've seen that in the plagues, -[3294.76 --> 3298.76] and just like God unleashing the chaoses of creation in that -[3298.76 --> 3301.52] is a callback to the creation story, -[3301.62 --> 3304.36] where God orders the chaoses of the world, -[3304.44 --> 3305.42] where he puts order in it. -[3305.46 --> 3307.86] Just like at the very beginning of this series, -[3307.98 --> 3310.12] we looked at the Israelites, and they were fruitful, -[3310.36 --> 3313.20] and they multiplied under the rule of Pharaoh. -[3313.38 --> 3317.32] Just like that is a callback to the creation story of God's people. -[3317.72 --> 3320.60] This event here, being the beginning of the year, -[3320.60 --> 3321.86] being a new thing for them, -[3321.86 --> 3324.74] is a new creation identity. -[3325.06 --> 3326.56] It's a reprinstonating. -[3326.88 --> 3328.64] They are starting over. -[3329.84 --> 3333.00] And it's to underscore and to prioritize -[3333.00 --> 3336.52] this new creation identity, -[3336.80 --> 3339.98] this theological reality for the people -[3339.98 --> 3343.52] that makes sense of how you can have -[3343.52 --> 3346.04] this really fast-paced story stop -[3346.04 --> 3348.34] for liturgical instruction. -[3349.98 --> 3350.58] Right? -[3350.62 --> 3352.58] It is to underscore and prioritize -[3352.58 --> 3354.88] this new theological identity -[3354.88 --> 3360.06] that makes sense of this moment of liturgical interlude. -[3360.06 --> 3364.28] I want you to hang on to that idea in your mind. -[3365.94 --> 3367.66] Expressly park it for a moment, -[3367.74 --> 3369.32] because I'm going to return to it in force -[3369.32 --> 3371.34] at the end when we tie it all together. -[3372.34 --> 3373.62] And so with that background, -[3374.00 --> 3377.10] let's look at the Passover festival. -[3377.10 --> 3381.38] Now from this time forward, -[3382.06 --> 3383.24] at the same time, -[3383.32 --> 3384.00] every year, -[3384.94 --> 3386.24] the first month of the year, -[3387.02 --> 3387.20] right, -[3387.28 --> 3388.90] each household is to take -[3388.90 --> 3390.74] a year-old male lamb -[3390.74 --> 3392.40] without defect. -[3393.36 --> 3394.72] And if the house is too small -[3394.72 --> 3396.02] to consume the entire thing, -[3396.20 --> 3398.30] it's to be shared among other smaller houses, -[3398.44 --> 3398.60] right, -[3398.62 --> 3399.70] to invite the neighbors over. -[3399.70 --> 3402.00] And that blood from the lamb -[3402.00 --> 3403.22] is to be collected -[3403.22 --> 3405.18] and drained into a basin. -[3405.76 --> 3407.20] And then a branch of hyssop -[3407.20 --> 3408.52] will be collected -[3408.52 --> 3411.24] and it will be dipped into that blood -[3411.24 --> 3412.62] and the tops and sides -[3412.62 --> 3413.78] of all the door frames -[3413.78 --> 3415.60] and all the houses participating -[3415.60 --> 3417.36] will be painted with that blood. -[3417.46 --> 3419.34] And that blood will be a sign -[3419.34 --> 3421.90] that these people have taken refuge -[3421.90 --> 3424.34] under God's protection -[3424.34 --> 3425.84] and that they, therefore, -[3426.02 --> 3428.24] will be passed over -[3428.24 --> 3432.34] by the angel of death -[3432.34 --> 3433.04] that moves through. -[3433.36 --> 3435.08] That's why this is called Passover. -[3436.22 --> 3437.64] And the meat from that lamb -[3437.64 --> 3439.08] is then gathered, -[3439.32 --> 3439.60] roasted, -[3439.90 --> 3441.32] and eaten with bitter herbs -[3441.32 --> 3442.52] and they are to eat bread -[3442.52 --> 3444.30] that is made without yeast. -[3445.16 --> 3445.62] In short, -[3445.74 --> 3446.46] it's a meal -[3446.46 --> 3447.42] that they're supposed to be able -[3447.42 --> 3448.36] to prepare -[3448.36 --> 3450.04] and take in quickly, -[3450.20 --> 3450.98] in haste, -[3451.08 --> 3452.68] and eaten on the road -[3452.68 --> 3453.44] if necessary. -[3455.50 --> 3456.40] As we said, -[3456.52 --> 3457.68] this section -[3457.68 --> 3458.94] of Exodus -[3458.94 --> 3461.18] is not just about -[3461.18 --> 3463.20] the rules for Passover. -[3463.42 --> 3464.60] This celebration -[3464.60 --> 3465.56] is intended -[3465.56 --> 3467.00] to be a lasting -[3467.00 --> 3468.16] ordinance -[3468.16 --> 3469.52] used by parents -[3469.52 --> 3471.04] to teach children -[3471.04 --> 3472.06] the faithfulness -[3472.06 --> 3472.96] of God. -[3473.54 --> 3474.62] In looking back -[3474.62 --> 3475.96] on this Passover meal -[3475.96 --> 3476.94] and practicing it -[3476.94 --> 3478.38] with your household -[3478.38 --> 3479.72] and with your neighbors, -[3480.02 --> 3480.94] future generations -[3480.94 --> 3482.80] are not only reminded -[3482.80 --> 3484.18] of what God has done, -[3484.32 --> 3485.18] but future generations -[3485.18 --> 3486.64] are also invited -[3486.64 --> 3487.28] and encouraged -[3487.28 --> 3488.10] to look forward -[3488.10 --> 3489.48] to what God will do -[3489.48 --> 3490.64] and to look around -[3490.64 --> 3491.72] to see what God -[3491.72 --> 3492.52] is doing. -[3495.26 --> 3496.84] In the Mishnah, -[3497.50 --> 3498.72] which is a collection -[3498.72 --> 3501.20] of Jewish rabbinical -[3501.20 --> 3501.96] sayings -[3501.96 --> 3505.10] from the post-exilic period, -[3505.10 --> 3507.26] so around the time -[3507.26 --> 3507.66] of Jesus -[3507.66 --> 3508.54] and a few hundred -[3508.54 --> 3509.16] years before -[3509.16 --> 3509.98] and after. -[3510.12 --> 3510.46] The Mishnah -[3510.46 --> 3510.96] is a collection -[3510.96 --> 3511.60] of documents -[3511.60 --> 3512.64] and sayings -[3512.64 --> 3513.36] from rabbis -[3513.36 --> 3514.84] and one rabbi -[3514.84 --> 3515.52] in particular -[3515.52 --> 3516.06] says, -[3516.16 --> 3517.16] Rabbi Pashim -[3517.16 --> 3517.80] says, -[3517.80 --> 3519.58] in every generation -[3519.58 --> 3521.20] a man must so -[3521.20 --> 3522.18] regard himself -[3522.18 --> 3523.32] as if he came -[3523.32 --> 3524.38] forth himself -[3524.38 --> 3525.46] out of Egypt. -[3526.42 --> 3527.12] But the Passover -[3527.12 --> 3529.26] is a theological -[3529.26 --> 3530.20] identity, -[3530.52 --> 3531.50] the exodus -[3531.50 --> 3532.54] and the Passover -[3532.54 --> 3533.58] is a theological -[3533.58 --> 3534.20] identity -[3534.20 --> 3535.68] for all Jewish people, -[3535.82 --> 3536.76] whether they were there -[3536.76 --> 3538.20] or they were born -[3538.20 --> 3539.00] a thousand years later. -[3540.68 --> 3541.96] But what's interesting, -[3542.54 --> 3544.20] if you take your Bible -[3544.20 --> 3545.26] and scan through -[3545.26 --> 3546.18] and do a bit -[3546.18 --> 3547.10] of a study here, -[3547.68 --> 3548.18] if you trace -[3548.18 --> 3548.80] the history -[3548.80 --> 3550.16] of Israel forward, -[3550.70 --> 3551.54] you will find -[3551.54 --> 3552.56] a few times -[3552.56 --> 3553.18] where the Passover -[3553.18 --> 3554.22] is being practiced -[3554.22 --> 3556.30] but many more times -[3556.30 --> 3556.92] where it's not. -[3558.34 --> 3558.76] And so during -[3558.76 --> 3559.40] the 40 years -[3559.40 --> 3560.02] of wandering, -[3560.50 --> 3560.78] Passover -[3560.78 --> 3561.56] isn't celebrated. -[3562.64 --> 3563.64] It starts again, -[3563.72 --> 3564.42] it happens again -[3564.42 --> 3565.24] for a short period -[3565.24 --> 3565.66] of time -[3565.66 --> 3566.88] when the people -[3566.88 --> 3567.84] cross the Jordan -[3567.84 --> 3568.82] into the land -[3568.82 --> 3569.96] for the first time -[3569.96 --> 3572.36] but as judges -[3572.36 --> 3572.92] happen -[3572.92 --> 3573.92] and each man -[3573.92 --> 3574.94] does what is right -[3574.94 --> 3575.78] in his own eyes -[3575.78 --> 3576.48] as the rule -[3576.48 --> 3577.12] of the kings -[3577.12 --> 3578.02] takes over -[3578.02 --> 3578.84] in that place -[3578.84 --> 3579.54] where actually -[3579.54 --> 3580.12] the practice -[3580.12 --> 3580.66] of Passover -[3580.66 --> 3581.48] falls away. -[3581.70 --> 3582.44] We're only told -[3582.44 --> 3583.30] explicitly that -[3583.30 --> 3583.96] Josiah, -[3584.28 --> 3584.96] King Josiah -[3584.96 --> 3586.68] restores the practice -[3586.68 --> 3587.84] of Passover -[3587.84 --> 3589.86] and then it doesn't -[3589.86 --> 3590.64] happen again -[3590.64 --> 3591.42] with any sort -[3591.42 --> 3592.10] of regularity -[3592.10 --> 3592.86] until after -[3592.86 --> 3594.08] the Babylonian exile -[3594.08 --> 3594.80] sometime -[3594.80 --> 3596.76] in the 6th century -[3596.76 --> 3597.48] BC. -[3598.48 --> 3599.74] And so for about -[3599.74 --> 3600.76] a thousand years -[3600.76 --> 3601.70] after this day -[3601.70 --> 3602.40] in Egypt, -[3602.82 --> 3603.38] the Passover -[3603.38 --> 3604.76] might not have been -[3604.76 --> 3606.14] an actual regular -[3606.14 --> 3607.68] event for every -[3607.68 --> 3608.24] generation -[3608.24 --> 3609.92] and yet it's given -[3609.92 --> 3611.42] as a defining one, -[3611.54 --> 3613.12] an identity defining -[3613.12 --> 3613.50] one. -[3614.46 --> 3615.24] And with all the -[3615.24 --> 3616.50] twists and turns -[3616.50 --> 3617.84] of her history, -[3618.40 --> 3619.14] the Passover -[3619.14 --> 3620.56] occurs at a few -[3620.56 --> 3621.58] significant stages -[3621.58 --> 3623.46] in Israel's history -[3623.46 --> 3624.06] and formation -[3624.06 --> 3624.96] and in their practice -[3624.96 --> 3625.96] absolutely, right? -[3626.02 --> 3626.64] From Egypt -[3626.64 --> 3627.56] and to Canaan -[3627.56 --> 3628.72] and from exile -[3628.72 --> 3629.48] and then back. -[3629.48 --> 3631.60] And through it all -[3631.60 --> 3632.86] when they remember -[3632.86 --> 3633.74] who they are, -[3633.82 --> 3635.10] when they come back -[3635.10 --> 3636.18] to obedience, -[3636.54 --> 3637.88] they see this -[3637.88 --> 3639.06] as the defining -[3639.06 --> 3641.12] feature of Israel's -[3641.12 --> 3641.78] relationship -[3641.78 --> 3642.70] to God. -[3643.84 --> 3644.88] Now throughout -[3644.88 --> 3646.12] each practice, -[3647.10 --> 3648.28] the Passover lamb -[3648.28 --> 3649.54] is a reminder -[3649.54 --> 3651.68] that Israel's -[3651.68 --> 3652.32] life -[3652.32 --> 3653.52] came -[3653.52 --> 3654.64] from death. -[3655.70 --> 3656.56] Now you see that -[3656.56 --> 3657.18] not only in the -[3657.18 --> 3657.86] 10th plague, -[3658.18 --> 3658.36] right? -[3658.36 --> 3659.08] A 10th plague -[3659.08 --> 3659.88] where the Egyptian -[3659.88 --> 3660.90] firstborn are killed -[3660.90 --> 3662.20] and we see that -[3662.20 --> 3663.68] not only as a response -[3663.68 --> 3665.72] to before -[3665.72 --> 3666.72] when Pharaoh -[3666.72 --> 3667.56] killed all the -[3667.56 --> 3669.22] Israelite children -[3669.22 --> 3670.48] or Israelite boys, -[3671.58 --> 3671.78] right? -[3671.94 --> 3673.68] This is also God -[3673.68 --> 3675.28] and this is in other -[3675.28 --> 3676.22] places where this story -[3676.22 --> 3677.00] is going to sound weird -[3677.00 --> 3677.92] to our modern ears, -[3678.40 --> 3680.12] exercises his right -[3680.12 --> 3681.32] over the firstborn. -[3682.84 --> 3682.96] Right? -[3683.00 --> 3683.56] So the Passover -[3683.56 --> 3684.70] isn't simply -[3684.70 --> 3686.04] a matter of the lamb -[3686.04 --> 3687.10] replacing the -[3687.10 --> 3688.10] Israelites' firstborn. -[3688.10 --> 3689.22] It's God -[3689.22 --> 3690.44] purchasing the -[3690.44 --> 3690.88] redemption -[3690.88 --> 3692.10] of his son -[3692.10 --> 3692.94] Israel -[3692.94 --> 3694.12] through the -[3694.12 --> 3695.22] death of the -[3695.22 --> 3695.70] Egyptian -[3695.70 --> 3697.02] firstborns. -[3697.42 --> 3698.36] Now like I said, -[3698.42 --> 3699.02] in our culture -[3699.02 --> 3700.78] that sounds strange -[3700.78 --> 3701.92] and that sounds weird, -[3702.16 --> 3702.72] maybe it sounds -[3702.72 --> 3703.26] arbitrary, -[3703.44 --> 3703.86] maybe it even -[3703.86 --> 3704.48] sounds abusive. -[3706.22 --> 3707.18] But it actually -[3707.18 --> 3707.90] wasn't that long -[3707.90 --> 3708.82] ago where -[3708.82 --> 3710.50] ideas about -[3710.50 --> 3711.24] being the -[3711.24 --> 3712.38] firstborn son -[3712.38 --> 3713.08] determined -[3713.08 --> 3714.04] your whole life. -[3714.04 --> 3715.38] in fact, -[3715.38 --> 3715.88] there are still -[3715.88 --> 3716.82] monarchies in the -[3716.82 --> 3717.32] world, right, -[3717.36 --> 3717.80] where that is -[3717.80 --> 3718.46] true. -[3718.82 --> 3720.10] A modern monarchy -[3720.10 --> 3721.14] says, well it can be -[3721.14 --> 3721.98] a son or a daughter, -[3722.10 --> 3722.92] but firstborn still -[3722.92 --> 3723.28] matters. -[3726.16 --> 3726.64] Throughout -[3726.64 --> 3728.60] the entire drama -[3728.60 --> 3729.56] of scripture -[3729.56 --> 3730.48] and in the ancient -[3730.48 --> 3731.42] near eastern world, -[3732.30 --> 3733.22] this is common -[3733.22 --> 3733.82] and normal, -[3734.14 --> 3734.88] but in the Bible -[3734.88 --> 3735.24] too, -[3735.32 --> 3736.58] you see God's -[3736.58 --> 3737.86] right to the -[3737.86 --> 3738.60] firstborn -[3738.60 --> 3739.80] as recognized, -[3740.36 --> 3740.54] right, -[3740.54 --> 3741.10] with Abraham -[3741.10 --> 3742.16] and Isaac, -[3742.80 --> 3743.72] with Moses' -[3743.98 --> 3744.52] son being -[3744.52 --> 3745.38] required to -[3745.38 --> 3746.64] be circumcised, -[3746.74 --> 3747.06] with the -[3747.06 --> 3747.94] repetitive -[3747.94 --> 3749.18] consecration -[3749.18 --> 3749.82] of the -[3749.82 --> 3750.52] firstborn -[3750.52 --> 3751.54] to priestly -[3751.54 --> 3752.40] service in -[3752.40 --> 3752.76] Israel, -[3752.86 --> 3753.32] they're all -[3753.32 --> 3754.40] indicative of -[3754.40 --> 3755.32] God's right -[3755.32 --> 3755.78] to the -[3755.78 --> 3756.52] firstborn. -[3756.74 --> 3757.26] The departure -[3757.26 --> 3757.94] from Egypt -[3757.94 --> 3758.94] then will not -[3758.94 --> 3759.58] be without -[3759.58 --> 3760.20] a price. -[3761.92 --> 3762.38] A blood -[3762.38 --> 3763.28] sacrifice will -[3763.28 --> 3763.80] have to be -[3763.80 --> 3764.08] made. -[3765.76 --> 3766.22] This is the -[3766.22 --> 3767.62] pattern of -[3767.62 --> 3768.00] redemption. -[3768.00 --> 3770.38] And while it -[3770.38 --> 3770.90] may seem -[3770.90 --> 3771.52] strange to -[3771.52 --> 3771.84] us, -[3771.94 --> 3772.48] the requirement -[3772.48 --> 3773.30] for blood -[3773.30 --> 3773.88] or death, -[3774.20 --> 3775.28] it does kind -[3775.28 --> 3776.18] of make sense -[3776.18 --> 3777.20] in light of -[3777.20 --> 3777.76] the broader -[3777.76 --> 3778.46] narrative of -[3778.46 --> 3778.94] the plagues. -[3779.94 --> 3780.14] Right? -[3780.20 --> 3780.42] Remember, -[3780.58 --> 3780.82] in our -[3780.82 --> 3781.46] discussion of -[3781.46 --> 3781.82] the plague -[3781.82 --> 3782.12] narrative, -[3782.26 --> 3782.82] we have seen -[3782.82 --> 3783.82] how this is -[3783.82 --> 3784.92] representative of -[3784.92 --> 3785.42] that great -[3785.42 --> 3786.58] cosmic battle -[3786.58 --> 3787.88] between light -[3787.88 --> 3788.70] and darkness, -[3788.84 --> 3789.52] between God -[3789.52 --> 3790.24] and Satan, -[3790.42 --> 3791.02] between God -[3791.02 --> 3792.08] and the gods -[3792.08 --> 3792.78] of Egypt, -[3792.96 --> 3793.50] between good -[3793.50 --> 3794.34] and evil, -[3794.44 --> 3794.94] and for almost -[3794.94 --> 3795.90] every plague, -[3796.02 --> 3796.54] we have seen -[3796.54 --> 3797.68] how God is -[3797.68 --> 3798.70] unleashing the -[3798.70 --> 3799.82] chaos and -[3799.82 --> 3800.76] the disorder -[3800.76 --> 3802.18] of uncreation. -[3802.74 --> 3802.82] Right? -[3802.82 --> 3803.46] That the powers -[3803.46 --> 3804.04] of darkness -[3804.04 --> 3804.42] that God -[3804.42 --> 3805.32] regularly holds -[3805.32 --> 3805.90] at bay, -[3806.08 --> 3806.94] he lets go -[3806.94 --> 3807.88] and unleashes -[3807.88 --> 3808.58] in the plagues. -[3809.70 --> 3810.20] And what is -[3810.20 --> 3810.84] the greatest -[3810.84 --> 3812.24] power of -[3812.24 --> 3812.68] darkness? -[3815.40 --> 3816.18] Already back -[3816.18 --> 3816.74] in the story -[3816.74 --> 3817.48] of Adam and -[3817.48 --> 3817.76] Eve, -[3817.84 --> 3818.28] we're told the -[3818.28 --> 3818.76] answer to this -[3818.76 --> 3819.06] question. -[3820.10 --> 3820.92] The answer is -[3820.92 --> 3821.28] death. -[3822.56 --> 3822.76] Right? -[3822.80 --> 3823.58] After placing -[3823.58 --> 3824.22] Adam and Eve -[3824.22 --> 3824.82] in the garden, -[3825.02 --> 3825.66] God tells them, -[3825.66 --> 3826.66] you are free -[3826.66 --> 3827.22] to eat of -[3827.22 --> 3827.82] any tree -[3827.82 --> 3828.42] of the garden, -[3828.52 --> 3829.12] but you must -[3829.12 --> 3829.68] not eat -[3829.68 --> 3830.20] from the tree -[3830.20 --> 3830.76] of knowledge -[3830.76 --> 3831.16] of good -[3831.16 --> 3831.54] and evil, -[3831.64 --> 3832.48] for if you -[3832.48 --> 3833.04] eat from it, -[3833.10 --> 3833.50] you will -[3833.50 --> 3835.12] surely die. -[3836.38 --> 3836.78] And again, -[3837.06 --> 3837.92] after Adam and -[3837.92 --> 3838.56] Eve eat from -[3838.56 --> 3838.90] the tree, -[3839.02 --> 3839.68] God says to -[3839.68 --> 3839.92] them, -[3840.08 --> 3840.72] from dust -[3840.72 --> 3841.44] you are, -[3841.56 --> 3842.40] and to dust -[3842.40 --> 3843.26] you will -[3843.26 --> 3843.70] return. -[3844.80 --> 3845.64] Death is -[3845.64 --> 3846.54] the great -[3846.54 --> 3847.18] enemy, -[3847.40 --> 3847.98] death is -[3847.98 --> 3848.70] the epitome -[3848.70 --> 3850.04] of uncreation. -[3851.80 --> 3852.24] And yet, -[3852.24 --> 3853.64] even after -[3853.64 --> 3854.08] sinning, -[3854.14 --> 3854.64] Adam and -[3854.64 --> 3854.84] Eve, -[3855.14 --> 3855.60] and by -[3855.60 --> 3855.94] them the -[3855.94 --> 3856.24] rest of -[3856.24 --> 3856.76] the humanity -[3856.76 --> 3857.42] did not -[3857.42 --> 3858.06] immediately -[3858.06 --> 3858.52] die. -[3859.36 --> 3859.60] And so, -[3859.84 --> 3860.48] in grace, -[3860.78 --> 3861.36] God is -[3861.36 --> 3862.16] still holding -[3862.16 --> 3862.98] the ultimate -[3862.98 --> 3863.62] power of -[3863.62 --> 3864.10] death at -[3864.10 --> 3864.32] bay, -[3864.38 --> 3864.76] at least -[3864.76 --> 3865.20] for a -[3865.20 --> 3865.52] span. -[3867.46 --> 3868.06] But the -[3868.06 --> 3869.98] death as -[3869.98 --> 3871.04] the reality -[3871.04 --> 3871.70] we all -[3871.70 --> 3872.70] deserve and -[3872.70 --> 3873.48] all face -[3873.48 --> 3874.20] and live -[3874.20 --> 3874.74] in now -[3874.74 --> 3875.36] because of -[3875.36 --> 3875.72] sin -[3875.72 --> 3876.84] continues. -[3877.30 --> 3877.62] And in -[3877.62 --> 3878.08] the tenth -[3878.08 --> 3878.70] plague, -[3879.84 --> 3880.70] God unleashes -[3880.70 --> 3881.36] that power. -[3882.24 --> 3882.76] death. -[3882.90 --> 3883.46] Now, -[3883.64 --> 3884.26] sometimes, -[3884.64 --> 3885.84] we say -[3885.84 --> 3886.62] things like, -[3887.10 --> 3887.22] well, -[3887.30 --> 3887.66] death is -[3887.66 --> 3888.14] natural. -[3889.52 --> 3889.68] Right? -[3889.74 --> 3890.20] And I get -[3890.20 --> 3890.58] that it's a -[3890.58 --> 3891.08] way that we -[3891.08 --> 3891.94] cope with -[3891.94 --> 3892.46] our grief -[3892.46 --> 3893.02] and we -[3893.02 --> 3893.70] minimize the -[3893.70 --> 3894.34] experience by -[3894.34 --> 3894.86] making it -[3894.86 --> 3895.34] quote, -[3895.42 --> 3895.92] normal. -[3896.74 --> 3897.46] And when -[3897.46 --> 3898.40] someone is -[3898.40 --> 3899.10] 80 or -[3899.10 --> 3899.78] 90 or -[3899.78 --> 3900.42] 100 years -[3900.42 --> 3900.74] old, -[3901.24 --> 3901.58] we can -[3901.58 --> 3902.34] easily feel -[3902.34 --> 3902.76] that way. -[3904.04 --> 3904.76] But there's -[3904.76 --> 3905.52] nothing normal -[3905.52 --> 3906.44] about dying, -[3907.02 --> 3908.06] even when it -[3908.06 --> 3908.58] happens all -[3908.58 --> 3909.14] over the place -[3909.14 --> 3909.62] and everywhere. -[3911.12 --> 3911.58] There's nothing -[3911.58 --> 3913.82] normal about -[3913.82 --> 3914.28] losing a -[3914.28 --> 3914.64] child. -[3919.50 --> 3920.18] That's not -[3920.18 --> 3921.04] the experience -[3921.04 --> 3923.20] of creation -[3923.20 --> 3924.54] that God -[3924.54 --> 3925.00] wanted for -[3925.00 --> 3925.34] us. -[3926.40 --> 3927.10] And this -[3927.10 --> 3927.60] idea, -[3927.84 --> 3928.06] then, -[3928.12 --> 3928.64] about death -[3928.64 --> 3929.34] being unleashed, -[3929.42 --> 3929.82] the idea -[3929.82 --> 3930.70] built around -[3930.70 --> 3931.14] the death -[3931.14 --> 3931.78] of the lamb -[3931.78 --> 3932.12] and the -[3932.12 --> 3932.66] firstborn -[3932.66 --> 3933.18] to pay -[3933.18 --> 3933.90] for your -[3933.90 --> 3934.32] freedom, -[3934.56 --> 3935.24] is actually -[3935.24 --> 3935.94] and ultimately -[3935.94 --> 3937.38] magnified in -[3937.38 --> 3937.96] the rest of -[3937.96 --> 3938.92] this story, -[3939.04 --> 3939.48] in the rest -[3939.48 --> 3939.98] of the drama -[3939.98 --> 3940.68] of scripture -[3940.68 --> 3941.26] by the time -[3941.26 --> 3941.64] we get to -[3941.64 --> 3941.88] the New -[3941.88 --> 3942.24] Testament, -[3942.38 --> 3942.56] right? -[3943.80 --> 3944.60] In Matthew -[3944.60 --> 3945.12] and Mark -[3945.12 --> 3945.62] and Luke, -[3946.48 --> 3946.90] there's a -[3946.90 --> 3947.58] record of -[3947.58 --> 3948.48] Jesus -[3948.48 --> 3950.42] having Passover -[3950.42 --> 3951.94] when he -[3951.94 --> 3952.92] celebrates his -[3952.92 --> 3953.98] last supper -[3953.98 --> 3955.54] with his -[3955.54 --> 3956.42] disciples before -[3956.42 --> 3957.92] his crucifixion. -[3958.38 --> 3958.94] And in that -[3958.94 --> 3959.38] moment, -[3959.80 --> 3960.10] Jesus -[3960.10 --> 3961.76] doesn't -[3961.76 --> 3962.98] redefine the -[3962.98 --> 3963.46] Passover, -[3964.10 --> 3965.36] he shows us -[3965.36 --> 3966.44] exactly what -[3966.44 --> 3967.10] it was always -[3967.10 --> 3967.86] meant to point -[3967.86 --> 3968.10] to. -[3969.16 --> 3969.94] The Passover -[3969.94 --> 3970.72] is a -[3970.72 --> 3971.78] liturgical -[3971.78 --> 3972.66] reminder -[3972.66 --> 3973.52] of being -[3973.52 --> 3974.38] set free -[3974.38 --> 3975.24] from slavery -[3975.24 --> 3975.72] to an -[3975.72 --> 3976.04] Egyptian -[3976.04 --> 3976.46] pharaoh. -[3976.78 --> 3976.96] And the -[3976.96 --> 3977.38] Lord's -[3977.38 --> 3977.66] Supper, -[3977.82 --> 3978.48] building up -[3978.48 --> 3978.92] on that, -[3979.00 --> 3979.22] is a -[3979.22 --> 3979.78] liturgical -[3979.78 --> 3980.28] reminder, -[3980.40 --> 3980.88] it is a -[3980.88 --> 3981.66] sign and -[3981.66 --> 3982.28] a seal -[3982.28 --> 3982.96] of being -[3982.96 --> 3983.74] set free -[3983.74 --> 3984.84] from slavery -[3984.84 --> 3985.74] to something -[3985.74 --> 3986.38] more yet -[3986.38 --> 3987.22] terrible. -[3989.28 --> 3990.12] And so, -[3991.00 --> 3991.60] recall -[3991.60 --> 3993.20] that at least -[3993.20 --> 3994.28] since the -[3994.28 --> 3995.06] second temple -[3995.06 --> 3995.38] period, -[3995.48 --> 3996.00] at least since -[3996.00 --> 3996.56] after the -[3996.56 --> 3996.94] exile, -[3997.06 --> 3997.56] the Passover -[3997.56 --> 3998.36] has become -[3998.36 --> 3998.82] a more -[3998.82 --> 3999.30] regular -[3999.30 --> 3999.98] practice. -[4000.56 --> 4000.80] And so, -[4000.86 --> 4001.32] there's some -[4001.32 --> 4002.14] three, -[4002.40 --> 4002.68] four, -[4002.82 --> 4003.30] maybe even -[4003.30 --> 4004.40] 500 years -[4004.40 --> 4005.62] of cultural -[4005.62 --> 4006.50] history and -[4006.50 --> 4007.38] regularity -[4007.38 --> 4008.70] ingrained in -[4008.70 --> 4009.24] this moment -[4009.24 --> 4009.82] of time where -[4009.82 --> 4010.42] Jesus sits -[4010.42 --> 4011.16] with his -[4011.16 --> 4011.62] disciples. -[4011.82 --> 4012.02] And so, -[4012.10 --> 4012.64] the disciples -[4012.64 --> 4013.82] sit with -[4013.82 --> 4014.56] Jesus in -[4014.56 --> 4015.10] that upper -[4015.10 --> 4016.58] room celebrating -[4016.58 --> 4017.50] the Passover -[4017.50 --> 4018.38] feast. -[4019.32 --> 4019.80] Now, -[4019.88 --> 4020.60] by the time -[4020.60 --> 4021.64] of Jesus, -[4022.32 --> 4023.24] again, -[4023.44 --> 4024.14] because of -[4024.14 --> 4024.70] the Mishnah -[4024.70 --> 4025.72] and other -[4025.72 --> 4026.40] rabbinical -[4026.40 --> 4026.84] teachings, -[4026.84 --> 4027.46] there is a -[4027.46 --> 4028.70] distinct form -[4028.70 --> 4029.90] and liturgy -[4029.90 --> 4030.60] that has taken -[4030.60 --> 4031.30] place and -[4031.30 --> 4031.90] taken root -[4031.90 --> 4032.72] in Jewish -[4032.72 --> 4033.90] society for -[4033.90 --> 4034.54] the celebration -[4034.54 --> 4035.22] of the Passover. -[4036.50 --> 4037.24] During the -[4037.24 --> 4037.52] meal, -[4038.54 --> 4039.86] the leader -[4039.86 --> 4040.72] of the family -[4040.72 --> 4041.82] or the priest, -[4041.98 --> 4042.38] depending on -[4042.38 --> 4042.64] where it was -[4042.64 --> 4043.36] being practiced, -[4043.76 --> 4044.58] would stand -[4044.58 --> 4046.12] up and then -[4046.12 --> 4046.92] holding a cup -[4046.92 --> 4047.54] of wine, -[4047.94 --> 4048.18] they would -[4048.18 --> 4049.24] explain the -[4049.24 --> 4050.00] feast's -[4050.00 --> 4050.34] meanings. -[4050.34 --> 4051.86] And this -[4051.86 --> 4052.46] would happen -[4052.46 --> 4053.56] four times -[4053.56 --> 4054.44] throughout the -[4054.44 --> 4054.84] service, -[4055.52 --> 4055.68] right? -[4055.78 --> 4056.34] Four cups -[4056.34 --> 4056.88] of wine -[4056.88 --> 4057.64] and four -[4057.64 --> 4058.38] explanations -[4058.38 --> 4059.54] representing -[4059.54 --> 4060.12] the four -[4060.12 --> 4060.82] promises of -[4060.82 --> 4061.46] God made -[4061.46 --> 4062.04] in Exodus -[4062.04 --> 4063.24] 6 to the -[4063.24 --> 4063.48] people. -[4063.54 --> 4063.94] The promise -[4063.94 --> 4064.46] to rescue -[4064.46 --> 4065.10] them from -[4065.10 --> 4065.70] Egypt, -[4065.82 --> 4066.16] the promise -[4066.16 --> 4066.58] of freedom -[4066.58 --> 4067.24] from slavery, -[4067.60 --> 4067.98] the promise -[4067.98 --> 4068.50] of redemption -[4068.50 --> 4069.08] by God's -[4069.08 --> 4069.40] power, -[4069.54 --> 4069.76] and the -[4069.76 --> 4070.32] promise of -[4070.32 --> 4070.84] a renewed -[4070.84 --> 4071.54] relationship -[4071.54 --> 4072.56] with God. -[4073.60 --> 4074.58] The third -[4074.58 --> 4075.86] cup and -[4075.86 --> 4076.24] the third -[4076.24 --> 4077.20] promise would -[4077.20 --> 4077.86] be raised -[4077.86 --> 4078.78] near the end -[4078.78 --> 4079.28] of the meal. -[4080.16 --> 4080.52] And then the -[4080.52 --> 4081.12] leader would -[4081.12 --> 4081.82] speak the -[4081.82 --> 4082.28] words of -[4082.28 --> 4082.76] Deuteronomy -[4082.76 --> 4083.60] 26 to -[4083.60 --> 4084.64] bless the -[4084.64 --> 4085.30] elements and -[4085.30 --> 4086.04] to explain -[4086.04 --> 4086.90] how they -[4086.90 --> 4087.84] are symbolic -[4087.84 --> 4088.80] reminders of -[4088.80 --> 4089.62] Israel's -[4089.62 --> 4090.56] afflictions, -[4090.72 --> 4091.68] of Israel's -[4091.68 --> 4092.34] slavery and -[4092.34 --> 4092.82] of God's -[4092.82 --> 4093.34] deliverance. -[4094.00 --> 4094.16] And so, -[4094.24 --> 4094.62] for example, -[4094.72 --> 4095.28] he would lift -[4095.28 --> 4096.12] a piece of -[4096.12 --> 4096.94] unleavened bread -[4096.94 --> 4097.46] and he would -[4097.46 --> 4097.66] say, -[4098.24 --> 4098.86] this is the -[4098.86 --> 4099.84] bread of our -[4099.84 --> 4100.50] affliction, -[4101.22 --> 4102.16] which our -[4102.16 --> 4102.94] fathers ate -[4102.94 --> 4103.90] in the -[4103.90 --> 4104.22] wilderness. -[4105.90 --> 4106.62] And year -[4106.62 --> 4107.84] after year -[4107.84 --> 4108.76] now by this -[4108.76 --> 4109.08] time, -[4109.14 --> 4109.66] that same -[4109.66 --> 4110.26] ceremony -[4110.26 --> 4110.96] would be -[4110.96 --> 4111.32] repeated -[4111.32 --> 4112.08] with the -[4112.08 --> 4112.88] same words -[4112.88 --> 4114.14] spoken and -[4114.14 --> 4114.66] the same -[4114.66 --> 4115.38] history -[4115.38 --> 4116.14] remembered. -[4117.04 --> 4117.46] Everyone -[4117.46 --> 4118.18] among them -[4118.18 --> 4118.60] would know -[4118.60 --> 4118.94] what was -[4118.94 --> 4119.40] going to -[4119.40 --> 4119.90] be said -[4119.90 --> 4120.60] and know -[4120.60 --> 4121.26] exactly -[4121.26 --> 4122.08] when it -[4122.08 --> 4122.38] would be -[4122.38 --> 4122.68] said. -[4124.22 --> 4124.82] For -[4124.82 --> 4125.68] generations -[4125.68 --> 4126.58] upon -[4126.58 --> 4127.24] generations, -[4127.66 --> 4128.30] it was the -[4128.30 --> 4129.08] same words -[4129.08 --> 4129.60] and the -[4129.60 --> 4130.04] same time -[4130.04 --> 4130.34] of year. -[4132.02 --> 4132.40] And so, -[4133.68 --> 4134.24] as Jesus -[4134.24 --> 4135.08] provides over -[4135.08 --> 4135.74] this Passover -[4135.74 --> 4136.38] ceremony, -[4136.80 --> 4137.86] when he is -[4137.86 --> 4138.76] about to -[4138.76 --> 4139.26] lift up -[4139.26 --> 4139.78] the third -[4139.78 --> 4140.42] cup and -[4140.42 --> 4141.14] reflect on -[4141.14 --> 4141.62] the third -[4141.62 --> 4142.52] promise, -[4142.86 --> 4143.46] the disciples -[4143.46 --> 4144.48] are expecting -[4144.48 --> 4145.08] the same -[4145.08 --> 4145.54] thing that -[4145.54 --> 4145.80] they have -[4145.80 --> 4146.28] heard ever -[4146.28 --> 4147.14] since they -[4147.14 --> 4147.50] were little -[4147.50 --> 4147.90] boys. -[4149.56 --> 4150.16] And instead, -[4151.18 --> 4152.04] Jesus says, -[4152.72 --> 4153.74] this is -[4153.74 --> 4156.18] my body. -[4158.12 --> 4158.60] Instead, -[4159.02 --> 4159.70] Jesus says, -[4159.82 --> 4161.18] this is my -[4161.18 --> 4162.30] blood of the -[4162.30 --> 4162.62] covenant, -[4162.76 --> 4163.60] which is poured -[4163.60 --> 4164.28] out for many. -[4164.28 --> 4193.22] in Luke's -[4193.22 --> 4193.56] gospel, -[4193.98 --> 4194.84] Jesus says, -[4195.22 --> 4196.08] this cup is -[4196.08 --> 4196.60] the new -[4196.60 --> 4197.48] covenant in -[4197.48 --> 4198.60] my blood. -[4200.50 --> 4201.60] The Passover -[4201.60 --> 4203.32] supper of -[4203.32 --> 4204.34] Jesus is -[4204.34 --> 4205.64] marking a -[4205.64 --> 4206.12] new beginning. -[4207.20 --> 4207.70] Or perhaps -[4207.70 --> 4208.58] we can say -[4208.58 --> 4209.40] better, it's -[4209.40 --> 4209.82] marking a -[4209.82 --> 4211.32] culmination of -[4211.32 --> 4211.96] something that -[4211.96 --> 4213.30] God has been -[4213.30 --> 4214.46] doing and is -[4214.46 --> 4215.44] doing in and -[4215.44 --> 4216.38] through him. -[4217.00 --> 4217.74] Something that -[4217.74 --> 4218.96] the whole history -[4218.96 --> 4219.92] of Israel has -[4219.92 --> 4221.10] been pointing to -[4221.10 --> 4221.92] and anticipating -[4221.92 --> 4223.42] and alluding to, -[4223.60 --> 4224.16] but something -[4224.16 --> 4225.00] that is new -[4225.00 --> 4225.60] because it is -[4225.60 --> 4226.28] now here -[4226.28 --> 4227.30] and real -[4227.30 --> 4228.08] in Jesus. -[4230.46 --> 4231.14] Now, as I -[4231.14 --> 4232.64] said, at the -[4232.64 --> 4233.46] Passover feast, -[4233.80 --> 4234.76] there are always -[4234.76 --> 4235.72] three distinct -[4235.72 --> 4236.38] elements. -[4236.52 --> 4236.84] You have the -[4236.84 --> 4237.46] bread, you have -[4237.46 --> 4238.06] the wine, and -[4238.06 --> 4238.42] you have a -[4238.42 --> 4238.66] lamb. -[4239.54 --> 4240.48] In Exodus -[4240.48 --> 4241.84] 12, there are -[4241.84 --> 4243.12] ten verses of -[4243.12 --> 4244.32] rules for the -[4244.32 --> 4245.04] lamb about where -[4245.04 --> 4245.84] you can get it, -[4245.88 --> 4246.40] how old it can -[4246.40 --> 4246.92] be, about how -[4246.92 --> 4247.32] you're supposed -[4247.32 --> 4249.08] to prepare it, -[4249.12 --> 4249.98] and about what -[4249.98 --> 4250.28] you're supposed -[4250.28 --> 4250.94] to do with it -[4250.94 --> 4251.80] and when you're -[4251.80 --> 4252.26] done with it, -[4252.30 --> 4252.52] how you're -[4252.52 --> 4253.28] supposed to get -[4253.28 --> 4253.74] rid of it. -[4254.66 --> 4256.26] And now, in -[4256.26 --> 4257.78] the New Testament -[4257.78 --> 4258.88] text, as we -[4258.88 --> 4259.78] see that, where's -[4259.78 --> 4260.20] the lamb? -[4261.94 --> 4262.70] Is the lamb all -[4262.70 --> 4263.16] of a sudden now -[4263.16 --> 4263.94] optional? -[4266.02 --> 4267.02] In Jesus' -[4267.40 --> 4267.76] Passover -[4267.76 --> 4268.62] celebration, there's -[4268.62 --> 4269.78] no lamb to be -[4269.78 --> 4270.96] eaten because, as -[4270.96 --> 4272.16] Tim Keller says, -[4272.20 --> 4272.98] there's no lamb on -[4272.98 --> 4273.70] the table because -[4273.70 --> 4274.56] the lamb of God -[4274.56 --> 4276.16] is at the -[4276.16 --> 4276.46] table. -[4277.90 --> 4278.76] When John the -[4278.76 --> 4279.82] Baptist first saw -[4279.82 --> 4280.52] Jesus, what did -[4280.52 --> 4280.84] he say? -[4281.90 --> 4283.18] Behold, the -[4283.18 --> 4284.18] lamb of God who -[4284.18 --> 4285.48] takes away the -[4285.48 --> 4286.46] sin of the -[4286.46 --> 4286.76] world. -[4287.98 --> 4289.58] In Isaiah 53, the -[4289.58 --> 4290.68] prophet anticipates -[4290.68 --> 4291.42] Jesus and says, -[4291.74 --> 4292.64] the Lord has laid -[4292.64 --> 4293.40] on him the -[4293.40 --> 4294.32] iniquity of us -[4294.32 --> 4294.50] all. -[4294.78 --> 4295.70] He was oppressed -[4295.70 --> 4296.94] and afflicted, yet -[4296.94 --> 4297.74] he did not open -[4297.74 --> 4298.14] his mouth. -[4298.24 --> 4299.70] He was led like a -[4299.70 --> 4301.16] lamb to the -[4301.16 --> 4301.60] slaughter. -[4302.08 --> 4302.74] He poured out -[4302.74 --> 4303.64] his life unto -[4303.64 --> 4304.30] death and was -[4304.30 --> 4305.32] numbered with -[4305.32 --> 4306.40] transgressors. -[4307.28 --> 4307.50] Right? -[4307.54 --> 4308.24] What Jesus is -[4308.24 --> 4309.02] saying at this -[4309.02 --> 4310.02] moment, at that -[4310.02 --> 4310.90] table with his -[4310.90 --> 4311.72] disciples is that -[4311.72 --> 4312.82] I am the lamb of -[4312.82 --> 4313.56] God who John -[4313.56 --> 4314.26] spoke about. -[4314.34 --> 4315.06] I am the lamb of -[4315.06 --> 4315.96] God that Isaiah -[4315.96 --> 4316.48] spoke about. -[4316.70 --> 4317.58] I am the lamb of -[4317.58 --> 4318.42] God to which all -[4318.42 --> 4319.62] other lambs have -[4319.62 --> 4319.98] pointed. -[4320.16 --> 4321.18] I am the lamb of -[4321.18 --> 4322.02] God that was first -[4322.02 --> 4323.16] promised on that -[4323.16 --> 4324.38] night, generations -[4324.38 --> 4325.64] ago, millennia ago, -[4325.76 --> 4327.16] back in Egypt. -[4328.28 --> 4329.34] I am the lamb of -[4329.34 --> 4330.52] God under whose -[4330.52 --> 4332.86] blood you now take -[4332.86 --> 4333.60] refuge. -[4334.54 --> 4335.40] I am the lamb of -[4335.40 --> 4336.30] God who takes away -[4336.30 --> 4336.88] the sin of the -[4336.88 --> 4337.06] world. -[4337.36 --> 4338.60] And that is why we -[4338.60 --> 4339.88] celebrate the Lord's -[4339.88 --> 4340.12] Supper. -[4341.54 --> 4341.98] Right? -[4342.02 --> 4342.50] Because we are -[4342.50 --> 4343.52] giving thanks for -[4343.52 --> 4344.62] the lamb of God who -[4344.62 --> 4346.44] takes away the sin of -[4346.44 --> 4346.78] the world. -[4346.86 --> 4348.56] And in the same way as -[4348.56 --> 4349.84] the Passover was -[4349.84 --> 4350.82] practiced, it is not -[4350.82 --> 4351.62] enough just to -[4351.62 --> 4353.42] sacrifice the lamb and -[4353.42 --> 4354.20] be done with it. -[4354.32 --> 4355.22] You have to take it -[4355.22 --> 4355.36] in. -[4355.42 --> 4356.12] You have to eat it. -[4356.82 --> 4357.86] It has to be taken -[4357.86 --> 4359.72] into your heart of -[4359.72 --> 4360.04] hearts. -[4360.08 --> 4360.96] In the same way, we -[4360.96 --> 4361.90] eat the supper as a -[4361.90 --> 4363.58] sign of our taking in -[4363.58 --> 4365.10] the death and the -[4365.10 --> 4366.16] resurrection of Jesus -[4366.16 --> 4367.74] and appropriating it -[4367.74 --> 4369.60] personally for -[4369.60 --> 4370.04] ourselves. -[4370.44 --> 4371.54] When we eat the -[4371.54 --> 4372.64] bread and drink the -[4372.64 --> 4373.54] cup, we are saying -[4373.54 --> 4374.56] by the power of the -[4374.56 --> 4375.36] Holy Spirit in the -[4375.36 --> 4376.56] operation of grace -[4376.56 --> 4377.54] through faith that I -[4377.54 --> 4379.56] have died with Christ -[4379.56 --> 4381.20] and I am being raised -[4381.20 --> 4383.10] in new life with -[4383.10 --> 4383.82] him. -[4386.20 --> 4387.90] Jesus says, I am the -[4387.90 --> 4388.78] living bread that came -[4388.78 --> 4389.46] down from heaven. -[4389.70 --> 4390.78] If anyone eats this -[4390.78 --> 4391.82] bread, he will live -[4391.82 --> 4392.20] forever. -[4392.20 --> 4393.58] This bread is my -[4393.58 --> 4394.94] flesh which I give -[4394.94 --> 4396.36] for the life of the -[4396.36 --> 4396.60] world. -[4396.70 --> 4397.52] Whoever eats my -[4397.52 --> 4398.66] flesh and drinks my -[4398.66 --> 4399.72] blood has eternal -[4399.72 --> 4401.24] life and I will raise -[4401.24 --> 4402.52] him up that last day. -[4402.86 --> 4403.64] Whoever eats my -[4403.64 --> 4404.72] flesh and drinks my -[4404.72 --> 4406.04] blood remains in me -[4406.04 --> 4408.20] and I in him. -[4411.06 --> 4412.22] Jewish Passover -[4412.22 --> 4414.90] was celebrated with -[4414.90 --> 4416.24] family, with -[4416.24 --> 4416.76] community. -[4417.70 --> 4418.94] Christian Eucharist, -[4419.04 --> 4419.72] our Lord's Supper, -[4420.10 --> 4421.36] is celebrated with a -[4421.36 --> 4422.44] family that is not -[4422.44 --> 4424.26] defined by blood or -[4424.26 --> 4425.64] race or ethnicity. -[4426.68 --> 4427.42] There's this beautiful -[4427.42 --> 4428.70] quote from theologian -[4428.70 --> 4429.42] D.A. Carson. -[4430.22 --> 4432.68] He writes, what binds -[4432.68 --> 4434.76] Christians together is -[4434.76 --> 4436.08] not common education, -[4436.32 --> 4437.54] not common race, not -[4437.54 --> 4438.62] common income levels, -[4438.76 --> 4440.20] common politics, common -[4440.20 --> 4441.24] nationality, common -[4441.24 --> 4442.44] accents, common jobs, -[4442.52 --> 4443.66] or anything else of that -[4443.66 --> 4443.86] sort. -[4444.22 --> 4445.44] Christians come together -[4445.44 --> 4446.54] because they have been -[4446.54 --> 4448.18] saved by Jesus Christ. -[4448.18 --> 4449.82] They are a band, hear -[4449.82 --> 4451.22] this, of natural -[4451.22 --> 4453.66] enemies who love one -[4453.66 --> 4455.24] another for Jesus' sake. -[4457.74 --> 4458.86] As we come to this -[4458.86 --> 4461.34] table, is that your -[4461.34 --> 4462.00] experience with the -[4462.00 --> 4462.24] church? -[4464.42 --> 4466.26] In the supper, we are -[4466.26 --> 4467.28] participating in a -[4467.28 --> 4468.52] Revelation 7 vision of -[4468.52 --> 4469.30] the kingdom of God, -[4469.52 --> 4470.96] where John looks and he -[4470.96 --> 4472.44] sees there before me a -[4472.44 --> 4473.58] great multitude that no -[4473.58 --> 4474.56] one could count, from -[4474.56 --> 4475.82] every nation, tribe, -[4475.82 --> 4476.70] people and language, -[4477.14 --> 4478.14] standing before the -[4478.14 --> 4479.60] throne and in front of -[4479.60 --> 4480.02] the Lamb. -[4480.86 --> 4482.28] When we eat this bread -[4482.28 --> 4483.54] and drink this cup, we -[4483.54 --> 4485.26] are living into the -[4485.26 --> 4487.12] future of God's work in -[4487.12 --> 4488.36] this world, a future -[4488.36 --> 4489.54] that has begun in the -[4489.54 --> 4490.54] life, death, resurrection, -[4490.68 --> 4491.72] and exaltation of Jesus, -[4491.86 --> 4492.82] and a future that is -[4492.82 --> 4494.62] culminating in that great -[4494.62 --> 4496.24] banquet feast of the -[4496.24 --> 4496.48] King. -[4499.26 --> 4501.46] And so as we move to the -[4501.46 --> 4504.12] table, as we come -[4504.12 --> 4506.14] together in the presence -[4506.14 --> 4508.14] of Jesus, know that we -[4508.14 --> 4510.14] come to the Lamb of God -[4510.14 --> 4513.40] who takes away sin of the -[4513.40 --> 4513.68] world. -[4515.84 --> 4517.78] And now, full circle, -[4518.78 --> 4519.62] remember that idea that I -[4519.62 --> 4520.26] asked you to park? -[4520.92 --> 4521.14] Right? -[4521.22 --> 4521.72] Unpark it. -[4524.66 --> 4526.32] The Passover is to -[4526.32 --> 4527.36] underscore and prioritize -[4527.36 --> 4528.56] this new theological -[4528.56 --> 4530.26] identity and make sense of -[4530.26 --> 4532.20] this liturgical interlude. -[4532.20 --> 4535.68] chapter 12 is weird. -[4536.22 --> 4536.78] Right? -[4536.84 --> 4537.90] It almost doesn't fit into -[4537.90 --> 4538.38] the story. -[4538.76 --> 4540.12] It breaks the rhythm and -[4540.12 --> 4542.58] yet it has a theological -[4542.58 --> 4544.26] purpose to underscore our -[4544.26 --> 4544.70] identity. -[4545.20 --> 4547.10] That's what worship does. -[4548.34 --> 4549.80] And to the world around us, -[4550.08 --> 4551.46] worship will look weird. -[4552.72 --> 4554.78] What we do here is going to -[4554.78 --> 4555.78] be strange to the -[4555.78 --> 4556.38] uninitiated. -[4556.46 --> 4557.64] Can you imagine having -[4557.64 --> 4558.94] zero exposure to Christian -[4558.94 --> 4560.34] faith, walking into church -[4560.34 --> 4562.42] today and hearing me say, -[4562.66 --> 4564.18] unless you eat my body and -[4564.18 --> 4565.44] drink my blood, you will not -[4565.44 --> 4566.24] have eternal life. -[4567.92 --> 4568.36] Right? -[4568.36 --> 4569.56] If that doesn't sound weird -[4569.56 --> 4571.90] to you, you might be a -[4571.90 --> 4573.08] little apathetic to what's -[4573.08 --> 4573.98] actually going on here. -[4575.10 --> 4575.92] That's weird. -[4576.28 --> 4577.24] It's strange. -[4577.42 --> 4578.40] And it needs to be. -[4578.58 --> 4579.56] And if this is your first -[4579.56 --> 4580.68] time here, either in person -[4580.68 --> 4582.84] or online, I hope that you're -[4582.84 --> 4584.06] feeling that weirdness because -[4584.06 --> 4584.66] that's good. -[4586.00 --> 4586.96] But don't get me wrong. -[4586.96 --> 4588.92] I hope that you feel -[4588.92 --> 4589.32] welcomed. -[4590.20 --> 4590.98] And I hope that your -[4590.98 --> 4592.14] heart's affections are -[4592.14 --> 4592.48] piqued. -[4592.70 --> 4593.16] I hope that your -[4593.16 --> 4594.44] imaginations are struck by -[4594.44 --> 4595.58] an experience of the glory -[4595.58 --> 4597.48] of God, however small and -[4597.48 --> 4598.78] minimal that may be at this -[4598.78 --> 4599.10] point. -[4599.80 --> 4602.74] But if it seems strange, it -[4602.74 --> 4603.10] should. -[4604.46 --> 4606.16] Lean into the mystery. -[4607.58 --> 4609.40] The liturgical interludes -[4609.40 --> 4611.24] break the rhythm of your -[4611.24 --> 4613.96] ordinary to give you a new -[4613.96 --> 4614.60] identity. -[4614.60 --> 4614.72] identity. -[4615.58 --> 4616.68] That's for all of us. -[4617.90 --> 4618.00] Right? -[4618.04 --> 4619.30] That's what worship does. -[4619.86 --> 4620.62] That's what the Lord's -[4620.62 --> 4621.14] Supper does. -[4621.52 --> 4623.72] God is telling us who we are -[4623.72 --> 4625.24] in his eyes. -[4626.42 --> 4628.16] God is reminding us what he -[4628.16 --> 4629.84] has done for us. -[4630.46 --> 4630.56] Right? -[4630.58 --> 4632.42] The theological definition of -[4632.42 --> 4634.20] your life in relationship to -[4634.20 --> 4636.32] God is the one that matters. -[4637.12 --> 4637.28] Right? -[4637.34 --> 4638.82] Who you are by grace through -[4638.82 --> 4640.34] faith is what matters. -[4640.46 --> 4642.44] Your everlasting identity is -[4642.44 --> 4644.48] from him and nothing else or -[4644.48 --> 4646.18] no one else can give you -[4646.18 --> 4646.52] that. -[4647.94 --> 4650.70] Liturgy and worship breaks -[4650.70 --> 4652.62] into the ordinary in order to -[4652.62 --> 4654.52] teach us something extraordinary. -[4655.18 --> 4655.28] Right? -[4655.30 --> 4657.24] The supernatural pours into the -[4657.24 --> 4658.76] natural in order to reveal -[4658.76 --> 4659.68] what truly is. -[4659.94 --> 4662.08] We eat in grace so that we can -[4662.08 --> 4663.86] live in peace. -[4666.38 --> 4667.78] Don't miss what happens here. -[4667.78 --> 4671.30] Don't downplay what happens -[4671.30 --> 4671.56] here. -[4672.50 --> 4672.72] Right? -[4672.78 --> 4674.50] In liturgy, in worship, from -[4674.50 --> 4677.02] the word and at the table, God -[4677.02 --> 4679.68] is breaking into the chaos of -[4679.68 --> 4682.76] your life to give you himself. -[4683.34 --> 4685.14] And so parents, tell your -[4685.14 --> 4685.56] children. -[4685.94 --> 4688.26] Everyone, tell your friends, come -[4688.26 --> 4690.96] to the table and behold the -[4690.96 --> 4694.10] Lamb of God who takes away the -[4694.10 --> 4695.72] sin of the world. -[4695.72 --> 4696.76] Let's pray. -[4704.44 --> 4709.12] Lord our God, we come to your -[4709.12 --> 4709.86] table. -[4710.08 --> 4712.50] May we see you. -[4713.82 --> 4718.10] As we come to your table, a band -[4718.10 --> 4721.16] of natural enemies made one body -[4721.16 --> 4722.90] new in you. -[4722.90 --> 4725.84] As we come to your table, restore -[4725.84 --> 4729.82] us to the joy of your new -[4729.82 --> 4731.62] creation life. -[4731.62 --> 4735.16] We come to this table, Lord Jesus, to -[4735.16 --> 4739.16] see you and to be held by you in -[4739.16 --> 4739.58] grace. -[4741.04 --> 4743.52] Fill us for the journey of faith -[4743.52 --> 4744.40] ahead. -[4745.60 --> 4747.82] And God, by your spirit, help us to -[4747.82 --> 4749.00] embrace the weird. -[4749.52 --> 4751.12] Help us to embrace the strange. -[4751.30 --> 4754.94] Help us to be those people who stand -[4754.94 --> 4757.48] out because of the gospel. -[4757.48 --> 4760.58] In your name, Lord Jesus, we pray. -[4761.58 --> 4761.96] Amen. -[4769.96 --> 4771.58] Please stand with us. -[4771.58 --> 4798.42] Our hearts are -[4798.42 --> 4804.48] Holy, holy is He -[4804.48 --> 4811.14] Sing a new song -[4811.14 --> 4815.22] To Him who sits on -[4815.22 --> 4820.68] Heaven's mercy seat -[4820.68 --> 4826.88] Worthy is Thine -[4826.88 --> 4830.56] Lamb who was slain -[4830.56 --> 4836.10] Holy, holy is He -[4836.10 --> 4842.10] Sing a new song -[4842.10 --> 4845.94] To Him who sits on -[4845.94 --> 4850.50] Heaven's mercy seat -[4850.50 --> 4860.72] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty -[4860.72 --> 4866.18] Who was and is and is to come -[4866.18 --> 4873.18] With all creation I sing -[4873.18 --> 4876.72] Praise to the King of kings -[4876.72 --> 4879.94] You are my everything -[4879.94 --> 4885.62] And I will adore you -[4885.62 --> 4907.30] Golden rainbows of living color -[4907.30 --> 4910.48] Flashes of lightning -[4910.48 --> 4912.98] Rose of thunder -[4912.98 --> 4922.98] Blessing and honor, strength and glory and power lead -[4922.98 --> 4929.66] To you, the only wise king -[4929.66 --> 4938.46] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty -[4938.46 --> 4944.20] Who was and is and is to come -[4944.20 --> 4950.42] With all creation I sing -[4950.42 --> 4953.42] Praise to the King of kings -[4953.42 --> 4956.92] You are my everything -[4956.92 --> 4961.42] And I will adore you -[4961.42 --> 4981.10] Filled with wonder -[4981.10 --> 4984.78] Awestruck wonder -[4984.78 --> 4991.32] At the mention of your name -[4991.32 --> 4996.78] Jesus, your name is power -[4996.78 --> 4997.78] Breath of thunder -[4997.78 --> 4998.78] Breath of thunder -[4998.78 --> 4999.78] Breath of thunder -[4999.78 --> 5000.78] Breath of thunder -[5000.78 --> 5001.78] Breath of thunder -[5001.78 --> 5002.78] Breath of thunder -[5002.78 --> 5003.78] Such a marvelous history -[5003.78 --> 5005.46] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty -[5005.46 --> 5015.46] Holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty -[5015.46 --> 5020.46] Who was and is and is to come -[5020.46 --> 5027.28] With all creation I sing -[5027.28 --> 5030.46] Praise to the King of kings -[5030.46 --> 5033.84] You are my everything -[5033.84 --> 5038.84] And I will adore you -[5038.84 --> 5045.84] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty -[5045.84 --> 5050.84] Who was and is and is to come -[5050.84 --> 5057.52] With all creation I sing -[5057.52 --> 5061.02] Praise to the King of kings -[5061.02 --> 5064.02] You are my everything -[5064.02 --> 5065.02] You are my everything -[5065.02 --> 5068.02] And I will adore you -[5068.02 --> 5072.02] You are my everything -[5072.02 --> 5074.02] You are my everything -[5074.02 --> 5076.02] And I will adore you -[5076.02 --> 5098.86] Have a seat together -[5098.86 --> 5101.62] As we come to the table -[5101.62 --> 5104.34] Of our king -[5104.34 --> 5107.38] To the table of the lamb -[5107.38 --> 5110.14] Who was not on the table -[5110.14 --> 5111.58] Because he was at the table -[5111.58 --> 5113.94] You are now invited -[5113.94 --> 5116.36] At his last supper -[5116.36 --> 5119.32] The Lord Jesus took the bread -[5119.32 --> 5122.52] And when he had given thanks -[5122.52 --> 5124.42] He broke it and said -[5124.42 --> 5127.18] This is the bread of my affliction -[5127.18 --> 5131.42] Do this in remembrance of me -[5131.42 --> 5135.16] In the same way he took the cup -[5135.16 --> 5136.00] After supper -[5136.00 --> 5137.74] And he said -[5137.74 --> 5139.82] This cup is the new covenant -[5139.82 --> 5141.18] In my blood -[5141.18 --> 5145.30] Do this in remembrance of me -[5145.30 --> 5148.58] For whenever we eat this bread -[5148.58 --> 5150.92] And drink this cup -[5150.92 --> 5152.78] We proclaim the Lord's death -[5152.78 --> 5153.76] And resurrection -[5153.76 --> 5156.10] Until he comes again -[5156.10 --> 5158.88] Therefore we proclaim our faith -[5158.88 --> 5160.84] As signed and sealed -[5160.84 --> 5162.94] In this sacrament -[5162.94 --> 5171.62] Church family -[5171.62 --> 5174.74] The Lord has prepared his table -[5174.74 --> 5176.70] For all who love him -[5176.70 --> 5178.50] And who trust in him alone -[5178.50 --> 5179.84] For their salvation -[5179.84 --> 5181.68] So if you are truly sorry -[5181.68 --> 5182.48] For your sins -[5182.48 --> 5183.86] If you sincerely believe -[5183.86 --> 5185.12] In the Lord Jesus -[5185.12 --> 5185.92] As your savior -[5185.92 --> 5187.44] And if you desire to live -[5187.44 --> 5188.72] In obedience to him -[5188.72 --> 5189.48] Whether you are here -[5189.48 --> 5190.96] Present or participating -[5190.96 --> 5192.40] Online at home -[5192.40 --> 5193.76] You are now invited -[5193.76 --> 5195.28] To come with gladness -[5195.28 --> 5197.46] To the table of the Lord -[5197.46 --> 5199.12] The gifts of God -[5199.12 --> 5201.36] For the people of God -[5201.36 --> 5207.76] in opening -[5207.76 --> 5210.14] Age -[5210.14 --> 5213.14] мяс -[5213.14 --> 5214.30] Outside -[5214.30 --> 5215.34] Main -[5215.34 --> 5220.08] Person -[5220.08 --> 5221.24] Mid -[5221.24 --> 5222.32] Caroline -[5222.32 --> 5222.98] 川 -[5222.98 --> 5223.80] Man -[5223.80 --> 5227.98] Jon -[5227.98 --> 5228.18] subd -[5228.18 --> 5228.76] três -[5228.84 --> 5229.84] bma -[5230.30 --> 5230.58] 路 -[5230.58 --> 5240.96] How deep the Father's love for us -[5240.96 --> 5246.46] How fast beyond the measure -[5246.46 --> 5252.96] That he should give his only Son -[5252.96 --> 5259.02] To gain the wretched pleasure -[5259.02 --> 5266.46] How great the King of Tear and Pops -[5266.46 --> 5272.66] The Father turns his face away -[5272.66 --> 5279.06] As wounds which are the Chosen One -[5279.06 --> 5284.84] Bring many sons to glory -[5284.84 --> 5302.28] Behold the man upon a cross -[5302.28 --> 5308.72] My sin upon his shoulders -[5308.72 --> 5315.52] Ashamed I hear thy walking voice -[5315.52 --> 5321.76] Called out among the scoffers -[5321.76 --> 5328.24] It was my sin that held him there -[5328.24 --> 5334.20] Until it was accomplished -[5334.20 --> 5341.34] His dying death has brought me life -[5341.34 --> 5346.78] I know that it is today -[5346.78 --> 5364.84] I will not boast in anything -[5364.84 --> 5372.28] No gifts, no power, no wisdom -[5372.28 --> 5379.28] But I will boast in Jesus Christ -[5379.28 --> 5384.28] His death and resurrection -[5384.28 --> 5391.72] Why should I gain from his reward -[5391.72 --> 5398.72] I cannot give an answer -[5398.72 --> 5405.16] But this I know with all my heart -[5405.16 --> 5412.16] His wounds that make my hands on -[5412.16 --> 5413.60] His wounds have paid my ransom -[5413.60 --> 5418.60] Why should I gain from his reward -[5418.60 --> 5419.60] Why should I gain from his reward -[5419.60 --> 5425.60] I cannot give an answer -[5425.60 --> 5433.04] But this I know with all my heart -[5433.04 --> 5437.04] His wounds that make my ransom -[5437.04 --> 5438.48] My ransom -[5438.48 --> 5439.48] My ransom -[5439.48 --> 5440.48] My ransom -[5440.48 --> 5441.48] My ransom -[5441.48 --> 5441.54] My ransom -[5441.54 --> 5442.18] My mamy -[5442.18 --> 5443.66] lengths -[5443.66 --> 5445.28] My sequel -[5445.28 --> 5445.40] My ransom -[5445.40 --> 5446.04] My abbiamo -[5446.04 --> 5446.56] My upset -[5446.56 --> 5447.48] busy -[5447.48 --> 5449.42] claustht -[5449.94 --> 5450.74] strived -[5450.74 --> 5451.86] ��j -[5451.86 --> 5453.58] told -[5453.58 --> 5456.06] You -[5456.06 --> 5458.50] o -[5458.50 --> 5458.98] o -[5458.98 --> 5459.42] f -[5459.42 --> 5459.86] environment -[5459.86 --> 5460.86] o -[5460.86 --> 5461.60] su -[5461.60 --> 5462.10] 76 -[5462.10 --> 5462.48] o -[5462.48 --> 5463.26] a -[5463.26 --> 5463.78] . -[5470.48 --> 5488.04] This is the body of Christ given for you. -[5488.60 --> 5491.38] And so take, eat, remember, and believe -[5491.38 --> 5493.54] that the body of our Lord Jesus Christ was given -[5493.54 --> 5497.56] for the complete forgiveness of all our sins. -[5500.48 --> 5502.48] Amen. -[5530.48 --> 5560.48] -[5560.48 --> 5567.68] The sin and heaven and the fire -[5567.68 --> 5573.84] Has been on Jesus' name -[5573.84 --> 5583.14] Silent as he stood accused -[5583.14 --> 5588.48] He'd in long dance floor -[5588.48 --> 5594.98] Fowing to the Father's will -[5594.98 --> 5600.68] He took a crown of gold -[5600.68 --> 5607.32] Rocket cross my salvation -[5607.32 --> 5613.68] Where your love poured out over me -[5613.68 --> 5617.68] Now my soul cries out -[5617.68 --> 5619.68] Hallelujah -[5619.68 --> 5627.68] Praise and honor unto thee -[5627.68 --> 5637.68] Sent of heaven God's own Son -[5637.68 --> 5642.68] To purchase and redeem -[5642.68 --> 5649.68] And reconcile the very ones -[5649.68 --> 5656.18] Who nailed it to that tree -[5656.18 --> 5662.68] Oh that rugged cross my salvation -[5662.68 --> 5668.68] Where your love poured out over me -[5668.68 --> 5672.18] Now my soul cries out -[5672.18 --> 5674.18] Hallelujah -[5674.18 --> 5682.18] Praise and honor God to thee -[5682.18 --> 5688.68] Now my debt is paid -[5688.68 --> 5691.68] It is paid in full -[5691.68 --> 5695.18] By the precious blood -[5695.18 --> 5698.18] That my Jesus filled -[5698.18 --> 5701.68] Now the curse of sin -[5701.68 --> 5704.68] Has no hold on me -[5704.68 --> 5708.18] Whom the Son sets free -[5708.18 --> 5710.18] Oh is free -[5710.18 --> 5712.18] Oh is free indeed -[5712.18 --> 5714.68] Now my debt is paid -[5714.68 --> 5717.68] It is paid in full -[5717.68 --> 5718.68] It is paid in full -[5718.68 --> 5721.18] By the precious blood -[5721.18 --> 5722.18] Now my debt is paid in full -[5722.18 --> 5724.18] That my love for me -[5724.18 --> 5726.18] Now my love poured out over me -[5726.18 --> 5727.18] That my love poured out over me -[5727.18 --> 5728.18] Now my love poured out over me -[5728.18 --> 5730.18] That my love poured out over me -[5730.18 --> 5736.18] Now my debt is paid in full -[5736.18 --> 5738.18] For my God poured out over me -[5738.18 --> 5743.18] Oh that rugged cross my salvation -[5743.18 --> 5749.18] Where your love poured out over me -[5749.18 --> 5750.18] Now my grace is paid in full -[5750.18 --> 5751.18] Now my grace is paid in full -[5751.18 --> 5753.18] And so my love poured out over me -[5753.18 --> 5754.18] Now my soul cries out -[5754.18 --> 5755.18] Hallelujah -[5755.18 --> 5759.18] Praise and honor unto thee -[5759.18 --> 5772.18] See the stone is rolled away -[5772.18 --> 5778.18] Behold the empty tomb -[5778.18 --> 5782.18] Hallelujah -[5782.18 --> 5785.18] God be praised -[5785.18 --> 5790.18] He's risen from the grave -[5790.18 --> 5795.18] Oh that rugged cross my salvation -[5795.18 --> 5800.18] Where your love poured out over me -[5800.18 --> 5802.18] Now my soul cries out -[5802.18 --> 5803.18] Hallelujah -[5803.18 --> 5804.18] Praise and honor unto thee -[5804.18 --> 5806.18] Now my soul cries out -[5806.18 --> 5808.18] Hallelujah -[5808.18 --> 5810.18] Praise and honor unto thee -[5810.18 --> 5815.18] Praise and honor unto thee -[5815.18 --> 5820.18] Praise and honor unto thee -[5820.18 --> 5823.18] Praise and honor unto thee -[5823.18 --> 5825.18] To be in full -[5825.18 --> 5833.18] Praise and honor unto thee -[5833.18 --> 5842.18] That today -[5842.18 --> 5844.18] Hallelujah praise and honor unto thee -[5844.18 --> 5848.18] This is the blood of Christ shed for you -[5848.18 --> 5858.58] For you, take, drink, remember, and believe that the precious blood of our Lord Jesus Christ was shed for the complete and absolute forgiveness of all our sins. -[5867.26 --> 5867.78] Amen. -[5874.00 --> 5877.06] As you are able, I'm going to invite you to stand. -[5878.18 --> 5885.88] We are going to pray in conclusion of this meal together, after which we will receive God's blessing and sing one more song. -[5887.10 --> 5889.54] Join your heart with mine in prayer. -[5891.32 --> 5904.80] Loving God, we thank you that you have fed us in this sacrament, that you have united us with Christ, and that you have given us a foretaste of the heavenly banquet to come in your eternal kingdom. -[5904.80 --> 5914.20] And so now send us out in the power of your spirit to live and to work for the glory of your name. -[5915.20 --> 5918.00] For Jesus' sake we pray. -[5919.06 --> 5919.48] Amen. -[5919.48 --> 5925.36] As you go, God goes with you. -[5925.92 --> 5928.54] And so receive his blessing. -[5929.88 --> 5932.22] God go before you to lead you. -[5933.00 --> 5935.22] God go behind you to guard you. -[5935.40 --> 5937.92] God go beneath you to support you. -[5938.04 --> 5940.58] And God go beside you to befriend you. -[5940.92 --> 5942.68] Do not be afraid. -[5942.68 --> 5945.14] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5945.26 --> 5946.58] Do not be afraid. -[5946.90 --> 5951.30] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5952.68 --> 5953.20] Amen. -[5953.20 --> 5953.32] Amen. -[5953.32 --> 5953.36] Amen. -[5953.36 --> 5955.32] Amen. -[5955.32 --> 5956.32] Amen. -[5956.32 --> 5957.32] Amen. -[5957.32 --> 5958.32] Amen. -[5958.32 --> 5959.32] Amen. -[5959.32 --> 5960.32] Amen. -[5960.32 --> 5961.32] Amen. -[5961.32 --> 5962.32] Amen. -[5962.32 --> 5963.32] Amen. -[5963.32 --> 5964.32] Amen. -[5964.32 --> 5965.32] Amen. -[5965.32 --> 5966.32] Amen. -[5966.32 --> 5967.32] Amen. -[5967.32 --> 5968.32] Amen. -[5968.32 --> 5969.32] Amen. -[5969.32 --> 5969.38] Amen. -[5969.38 --> 5969.44] Amen. -[5969.44 --> 5969.82] Amen. -[5969.82 --> 5970.38] Amen. -[5970.38 --> 5970.44] Amen. -[5972.68 --> 5975.42] Amen. -[6001.40 --> 6001.60] Amen. -[6001.60 --> 6002.38] Amen. -[6002.38 --> 6002.50] Amen. -[6002.50 --> 6002.58] Amen. -[6002.58 --> 6005.58] The Lion of Judah -[6005.58 --> 6008.48] He's roaring his power -[6008.48 --> 6011.48] And climbing our battle -[6011.48 --> 6016.38] And every knee will bow before Him -[6016.38 --> 6019.68] Our God is the Lamb -[6019.68 --> 6022.58] The Lamb that was slain -[6022.58 --> 6025.32] For the sins of the world -[6025.32 --> 6027.98] His God breaks the chains -[6027.98 --> 6033.48] And every knee will bow before the Lion of Judah -[6033.48 --> 6039.48] And every knee will bow before Him -[6039.48 --> 6052.08] So open up the gates -[6052.08 --> 6056.48] Make way before the King of kings -[6056.48 --> 6062.98] The God who made the same -[6062.98 --> 6066.98] Is here to set the captives free -[6066.98 --> 6070.98] For who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[6070.98 --> 6075.48] Our God is the Lion -[6075.48 --> 6077.48] The Lion of Judah -[6077.48 --> 6080.48] He's roaring with power -[6080.48 --> 6083.48] And fighting our battle -[6083.48 --> 6088.48] And every knee will bow before Him -[6088.48 --> 6091.98] Our God is the Lamb -[6091.98 --> 6094.98] The Lamb that was slain -[6094.98 --> 6096.98] For the sins of the world -[6096.98 --> 6099.98] His blood breaks the chains -[6099.98 --> 6105.98] And every knee will bow before the Lion of Judah -[6105.98 --> 6111.48] Every knee will bow before Him -[6111.48 --> 6116.48] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[6116.48 --> 6122.48] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[6122.48 --> 6127.98] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[6127.98 --> 6133.98] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[6133.98 --> 6139.98] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[6139.98 --> 6145.48] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[6145.48 --> 6150.48] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[6150.48 --> 6156.48] Who can stop the Lord? -[6156.48 --> 6157.98] Who can stop the Lord -[6157.98 --> 6159.98] Our God is the Lion -[6159.98 --> 6162.98] The Lion of Judah -[6162.98 --> 6165.98] He's roaring with power -[6165.98 --> 6168.98] And fighting our battle -[6168.98 --> 6173.98] And every knee will bow before Him -[6173.98 --> 6177.48] Our God is the Lamb -[6177.48 --> 6180.48] The Lamb that was slain -[6180.48 --> 6183.48] For the sins of the world -[6183.48 --> 6186.48] His blood breaks the chains -[6186.48 --> 6191.48] And every knee will bow before the Lion of Judah -[6191.48 --> 6196.48] And every knee will bow before Him -[6196.48 --> 6220.98] Go in peace -[6220.98 --> 6221.98] Go in peace -[6221.98 --> 6240.48] Go in peace -[6240.48 --> 6243.48] Go in peace -[6243.48 --> 6247.48] Go in peace -[6247.48 --> 6250.48] Go in peace -[6250.48 --> 6280.46] Thank you. -[6280.48 --> 6310.46] Thank you. -[6310.48 --> 6340.46] Thank you. -[6340.48 --> 6370.46] Thank you. -[6370.48 --> 6400.46] Thank you. -[6400.48 --> 6430.46] Thank you. -[6430.48 --> 6460.46] Thank you. -[6460.48 --> 6490.46] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - January 1, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - January 1, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ff38c492c069bb82bcb8581cb43f34e69ab522ff..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - January 1, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,246 +0,0 @@ -• Worship song with repetition of lyrics "How great is our God" -• References to God's love and faithfulness -• Personal testimony of relationship with God -• Praise and thanksgiving to God for goodness and mercy -• Prayer for others, including those in need of healing and freedom from Satan -• Welcome and introduction by Pastor Chris -• Announcement about next Sunday's youth coffee and need for a host -• Invitation to worship together as a community -• Call to worship with a reading from Psalm 139 -• Song of praise to Jesus as the hope, comfort, light, and truth -• The speaker is described as the source of heaven's light, vine, and dreams -• The speaker is referred to as Jesus and many others believe in Him -• Repeated phrases of "Lord, we believe" are said multiple times -• References are made to Psalm 139, specifically verses about God's presence everywhere -• The speaker prays for help to rest in God's love and trust Him always -• The speaker expresses gratitude for God's mercy and love, saying they have been held in His hands all their days -• Expressing gratitude and worship -• Reflecting on God's goodness and presence in life -• Jesus as the name above every other name and savior -• Living for Jesus and filling with His heart and love -• Thanking God and acknowledging His glory and honor -• Worship service continues with giving of gifts to support Emmanuel church and Life Recovery Association -• Life Recovery: a safe, structured, and supportive Christian community for women struggling with addiction -• Statistics on substance abuse in BC and the need for support -• Invitation to join Life Recovery's cause and support their mission -• Bible verse (Hebrews 13:16) about doing good and sharing with others -• Prayer and worship songs (including "I Am My Eyes") -• New Year's Day service, including: - • Reflection on past year and gratitude for Jesus' birth - • Discussion of things to be thankful for - • Personal testimony of being thankful for family, friends, and church community -• Children's worship time will resume next week -• Pastor Chris led a prayer session, thanking God for the past year and seeking forgiveness for sins -• Prayer requests were made for Marie Grimm's stepmom, who is in hospital with seizures, and her family -• Next Sunday will feature Lord's Supper, and attendees are encouraged to discuss its significance with their families and friends -• The pastor invited attendees to join him in prayer. -• Worship and celebration of God's presence -• Prayer for those who are struggling, including the Grimm family and Brenda, Jody, Linda, and Teenie -• Request for God's peace, strength, and power in difficult circumstances -• Thanksgiving prayer for Teenie's recovery and return home after surgery -• Gratitude for answered prayers -• Prayers for continued recovery and blessings -• Requests for patience, health, and peace -• Prayers for specific individuals (John, Harry, Trudy) in their recoveries -• Prayers for others receiving healthcare treatment -• General requests for God's nearness, healing, and peace -• Power and authority -• Waiting for answers or tests -• Anxiety and the search for peace -• Preparing hearts and minds for worship -• Opening eyes, hearts, and imaginations to God's presence -• Receiving God's grace through the Eucharist -• Praying for others, including family members, those in need of reconciliation, and those mourning loved ones who have passed away -• Praying for those walking in grief and seeking comfort from God -• Recognizing the pain of losing loved ones and the difficulty of sharing a table with others who have rejected their faith -• Asking God to soften the hearts of those who have wandered or rejected Him, opening their eyes to His truth and majesty -• Reflecting on the beauty and compelling nature of God's love and grace -• Worshiping God as Holy Father and seeking to hear from Him in a new year -• Opening a message and dedicating it to the audience -• Referencing Psalm 8 and its significance -• Discussing the concept of identity and remembering past experiences -• Reflecting on starting a new year and recalling personal values and goals -• Mentioning a previous sermon titled "Who Am I" -• Referring to the start of a new year and reflecting on one's identity in Christ -• The importance of remembering who we are in God during the year ahead -• Being easily overwhelmed by messages and distractions -• Relaying the foundation of who God says we are -• Looking at Psalm 8 as a reference point for understanding our identity -• The majesty of God's name is praised in all the earth -• God has set his glory above the heavens through the praise of children and infants -• He has established a stronghold against enemies to silence the foe -• The heavens are the work of God's fingers, with the moon and stars set in place -• Mankind is mindful of them and cares for them as human beings made lower than angels but crowned with glory and honor -• They have been made rulers over the works of God's hands, with everything under their feet -• The speaker is reflecting on the nature of reality and its mysteries -• Two fundamental questions will define one's experience in life: what lies beyond the surface level, and what is the true nature of existence -• The truth is profound but easily dismissed until it is plumbed to its depths, revealing immeasurable meaning and incomprehensible complexity -• Fundamentally defining and delimiting what it means to be alive -• Two questions that determine a life's direction -• How answering these questions sets everything in motion for the rest of one's life -• Revealing one's reality, experience, and frame of reference through language choices -• The meaning of life and its ideas found depending on how one answers these two questions -• Two fundamental questions in life: "Who is God?" and "How will I live?" -• These questions are profound yet simple to answer -• The answer to these questions has been debated throughout history, but everyone lives with an assumed answer -• Engaging with these questions can occur in various ways throughout one's life -• Nobody escapes answering these questions, as they are fundamental to the human experience. -• The concept of a pantheon of gods like in Hinduism or Greco-Roman systems -• Belief in a constant, ongoing struggle between the gods themselves -• Escaping the physical plane and achieving spiritual liberation (Elysium, Moksha, Nirvana) -• Question of who is God, with one possible answer being there is no God -• The speaker discusses a common answer given to the question of life's purpose, which is that people will also have to wrestle with who they are and what the point of life is. -• They mention that some people say there is no god or higher power that gives life direction and meaning. -• The speaker counters this by saying that admitting there might be no greater purpose to life can actually lead to a more honest and authentic existence. -• They argue that without a predetermined purpose, people should focus on living in the present and finding joy and fulfillment in everyday experiences. -• Nihilism and its roots in philosophy -• Moral traditions and ethical obligations -• Critique of traditional morality based on evolutionary imperatives -• Game theory as a framework for understanding human behavior -• Human likelihood of survival and the role of submission to societal norms -• Patterns of behavior and morality -• Influence of societal standards and expectations on individual behavior -• Evolutionary theory and the concept of survival of the fittest -• Morality and moral imperatives as transcendent principles -• Immanuel Kant's ideas on universal categories and principles -• The challenge of knowing and applying these principles in everyday life -• Misconceptions about God -• Authority and judgment of God -• Influence of God on daily life -• Relationship with God as a judge vs. an authoritive dictator -• Sacrifices and service to appease God -• Feeling overwhelmed and oppressed by God's expectations -• Use of Psalm 8 to understand God's perspective -• Impacts of the answer to the first question on subsequent life choices -• Holding up a biblical way of living as a challenge to the listener -• Examining personal identity and relationship with God -• The concept that both "Who is God?" and "Who am I?" are relevant questions -• The idea that answers to these questions impact each other -• An explicit link between one's understanding of God and self-identity -• John Calvin -• The Institutes of the Christian Religion -• Quote from The Institutes -• True self-knowledge -• Seeking God's guidance -• The concept of the two questions: "Who is God?" and "Who am I?" -• How asking these questions naturally leads to a consideration of one's own identity -• The relationship between the first and second questions, where answering one question can lead to contemplation on the other -• How humans are prone to ask these kinds of questions, both in philosophy and everyday life -• A discussion about Psalm 8 and its relevance to understanding oneself and one's place in the world -• Contemplating God and the universe -• Reflecting on personal experiences in nature, such as gazing at stars -• Comparing human existence to the vastness of the universe -• Considering the question "Who made it?" in relation to the creation of water vapor -• Meditating on the mystery of life and the unknown -• The universe and humanity -• Relation of humans to God -• Understanding the name of God in all places on earth -• The Reformed Church tradition and its teachings -• The Belgic Confession and its significance in defining church identity -• The created world as described in the first book of God's word -• The First Book of God's Revelation -• All creatures are as letters to make us ponder the invisible things of God -• God's eternal power and divinity are enough to convict humanity -• The world around us is a letter from God revealing Himself to us -• Psalm 8 testifies to the truth that there is a Creator, and God is the Creator -• The Psalmist answers the question "Who is God?" by saying He is the Creator -• Reference to the Lord and Bibles being translated in all capitals -• Explanation of the name Yahweh, referencing Exodus 3:14-15 -• Discussion on the meaning of the repetition of "I am" or "I will be" in reference to God's identity -• Interpretation that the name Yahweh conveys God's unchanging and eternal nature -• The concept of immutability and aseity in God's nature -• Yahweh as the self-sufficient and worthy deity -• The content and meaning of the name "Yahweh" -• The works and words of God as expressions of His identity -• The Psalm's view of God's sovereignty in all aspects of life -• The attributes of God, including being transcendent and imminent -• God's omnipotence and omniscience -• God's presence and ubiquity (omnipresence) -• God's absolute nature, with no rivals or equals -• The significance of the name "Lord" in relation to God's nature -• The majesty of God is a central theme in Psalm 8 -• The psalm is not just a statement of fact, but also an acclamation and praise for God's majesty -• God's creation of the earth and humanity was to give them the capacity to know and praise His majesty -• Humanity's purpose is to know and praise God's majesty, which brings joy and guides their actions -• Description of God's attributes (unchanging, self-sufficient, independent, omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent) -• Reflection on the relationship between humans and God -• Comparison of human understanding to God's power and knowledge -• Discussion on being mindful of God in everyday life -• Reference to Psalm 8 and its interpretation -• Psalm 8 -• Human insignificance and God's greatness -• God's promises and glory -• Humanity's role in creation -• God's power and majesty -• Understanding of God and its impact on humanity -• Relationship between the speaker and the listener -• Identity and humanity in relation to God and faith -• Recreating oneself in the image of Jesus Christ -• The Bible as a guide to understanding God and humanity -• Seeing oneself through the lens of the God of the Bible -• Assessment of the concept of universal human dignity -• Origin and meaning of universal human rights in Christian context -• Relationship between God, church, and state in societal norms -• Separation of church and state as a cultural norm -• Conceptual inconsistencies regarding human dignity and separation of church and state -• The concept of freedom and rights being rooted in Christian theology -• God's image and likeness in humans -• Living as God's image bearers -• Love of God for humanity and creation -• Worthiness seen in human worth and dignity -• God becoming human like us -• Jewish tradition and the Messiah -• Psalm 8 as a messianic psalm -• Prophetic and anticipatory role of Psalm 8 -• Jesus Christ as the Messiah and human -• Relationship between God and humanity -• Need for God to become human -• Filling and fulfilling one's vision of God and humanity -• The relationship between God and humanity -• The fall of humanity into sin -• Humanity's role as vice regent -• The introduction of disorder, brokenness, and chaos -• Jesus Christ as the bridge between Creator and creature -• Restoration of proper order through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross -• The power of God's righteousness and reconciling believers to Him -• The role of the Holy Spirit in uniting believers with God by grace through faith -• Believers being exalted to a place of dominion over darkness and powers of oppression -• The truth that enables disciples of Jesus to cast out demons, work miracles, and stand against patterns and systems of oppression -• The victory that comes from this truth over personal struggles and sins like pornography or addiction -• The movement towards finding acceptance, meaning, and purpose in Jesus -• Meaning and purpose in Jesus Christ -• Stopping struggling to meet worldly expectations -• Breaking free from social media's influence -• Finding self-esteem in Christ alone -• Avoiding anxiety and finding glory in Christ -• Recognizing royalty and beauty in Christ -• Embracing strength and identity in Christ -• The relationship between God and humanity -• Jesus' example of being fully human and fully alive -• Salvation through death and resurrection -• Humanity's identity as made fully human and fully alive in Christ -• The majesty and glory of God's name on earth -• Prayer to the Lord, Our Lord -• Request for help from a supreme being -• Acknowledging the creator's power and majesty -• Asking for guidance and understanding of their role in the world -• Seeking to understand the answer to who they are -• Recognizing their word as truth and revelation -• Experiencing self-awareness through recognition of their existence -• Expressing trust, reliance, and worship towards the supreme being -• Acknowledging dependence on the creator -• Isotox is mentioned repeatedly -• Reference to worship -• Quote "I am who you say I am" repeated multiple times -• Quotes from biblical passages (Matthew 11:28-30, John 14:2) -• Invitation to stay after service for fellowship and coffee -• Blessings and prayers for protection, support, and guidance -• Final words of encouragement and blessing -• Slain for the world -• High and Lord of all worlds -• Angels crying "Hail the Lamb" -• Reigning as King of all kings -• Coming on time with the King of all kings -• Role of Christianity and Prince in the kingdom -• Organization and leadership in the kingdom -• Global presence and influence \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - January 1, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - January 1, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 38970fbab804fec147438b9819472eca80c1f5a0..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - January 1, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,5612 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 13.10] How great is our God, and all will see how great, how great is our God. -[13.10 --> 36.78] Name above all names, worthy of all praise, my heart will see how great is our God. -[36.78 --> 61.02] Name above all names, worthy of all praise, my heart will see how great is our God. -[66.78 --> 73.78] Name above all names, worthy of all praise, my heart will see how great is our God. -[73.78 --> 81.78] Name above all names, worthy of all praise, my heart will see how great is our God. -[81.78 --> 91.78] And all will see how great, how great is our God. -[91.78 --> 100.78] How great is our God. -[100.78 --> 106.78] How great is our God. -[106.78 --> 113.78] How great is our God. -[113.78 --> 117.78] How great is our God. -[117.78 --> 124.78] How great is our God. -[124.78 --> 130.78] How great is our God. -[130.78 --> 136.78] How great, how great is our God. -[136.78 --> 137.88] How great is our God. -[139.78 --> 144.88] assum豆 boil -[161.78 --> 165.78] covers course labo, -[165.78 --> 195.76] Thank you. -[195.78 --> 225.76] Thank you. -[225.78 --> 227.78] Thank you. -[255.78 --> 257.78] Thank you. -[285.78 --> 287.78] Thank you. -[287.78 --> 289.78] Thank you. -[317.78 --> 319.78] Thank you. -[319.78 --> 321.78] Thank you. -[321.78 --> 323.78] Thank you. -[323.78 --> 325.78] Thank you. -[325.78 --> 327.78] Thank you. -[327.78 --> 329.78] Thank you. -[329.78 --> 331.78] Thank you. -[331.78 --> 333.78] Thank you. -[333.78 --> 335.78] Thank you. -[335.78 --> 337.78] Thank you. -[337.78 --> 339.78] Thank you. -[339.78 --> 341.78] Thank you. -[341.78 --> 343.78] Thank you. -[343.78 --> 345.78] Thank you. -[345.78 --> 347.78] Thank you. -[347.78 --> 351.78] Thank you. -[351.78 --> 352.78] Thank you. -[352.78 --> 353.78] Thank you. -[353.78 --> 357.22] It never runs out on me. -[357.22 --> 359.36] Your love never fails. -[359.58 --> 360.84] It never gives up. -[361.10 --> 363.14] It never runs out on me. -[363.24 --> 365.90] No, no, your love never fails. -[366.04 --> 367.34] It never gives up. -[367.62 --> 370.22] It never runs out on me. -[370.46 --> 375.30] Your love, it's your love. -[375.56 --> 379.68] God, I know your love is never ending. -[380.20 --> 382.72] Your love is never failing. -[382.72 --> 388.10] It's your love, your love, your love. -[412.72 --> 416.42] I love you, Lord. -[419.10 --> 422.60] Oh, your mercy never fails me. -[423.90 --> 430.10] All my days I've been held in your hands. -[430.10 --> 434.48] From the moment that I wake up. -[435.48 --> 438.36] Until I lay my head. -[439.40 --> 445.06] For I was the one of the goodness of God. -[445.06 --> 450.44] I'm going to pray for you. -[450.44 --> 453.12] All my life you have been faithful. -[453.12 --> 462.62] All my life you have been so, so good. -[463.00 --> 468.08] With every breath that I enable. -[468.50 --> 475.60] Oh, I will sing of the goodness of God. -[475.60 --> 477.60] I love you. -[477.60 --> 479.76] I love your voice. -[481.98 --> 485.18] You will lead me through the fire. -[485.18 --> 488.56] And in darkest night. -[488.56 --> 492.56] You will close like no other. -[492.56 --> 496.90] I've known you as a father. -[497.90 --> 500.72] I've known you as a prayer. -[500.72 --> 502.10] I've known you as a prayer. -[502.10 --> 508.10] And I have lived in the goodness of God. -[508.10 --> 508.40] Yeah. -[511.40 --> 516.10] And all my life you have been faithful. -[517.10 --> 517.94] Oh. -[517.94 --> 525.54] And all my life you have been so, so good. -[526.98 --> 530.92] With every breath that I enable. -[532.58 --> 538.38] Oh, I will sing of the goodness of God. -[538.38 --> 538.88] Yeah. -[541.72 --> 544.86] Because your goodness is running out. -[545.14 --> 547.00] It's running out. -[547.00 --> 549.68] You're not alone. -[549.68 --> 549.80] It's running out. -[549.80 --> 550.80] It's running out. -[550.80 --> 551.40] N duas jours нет. -[551.40 --> 551.78] Amendment LoveภLo hadAll fra beauties. -[551.78 --> 552.20] Hung Quelka system is religious freedom. -[552.20 --> 552.56] And I know you're giving your reactions to Satan. -[552.56 --> 553.44] tribe podem było in thy Song of God. -[553.44 --> 553.68] Him hunger. -[553.84 --> 554.56] You have to preach him to all people'sнения. -[554.56 --> 555.56] It's turn being renewed. -[555.56 --> 557.24] You have to preach the elders room supernow. -[557.24 --> 557.90] Oh I know you're blessed. -[557.90 --> 558.94] Come on. -[558.94 --> 559.46] Yeah. -[559.46 --> 560.10] They're saying they've been faithful to the consumptive family. -[560.22 --> 561.06] Oh. -[561.06 --> 561.40] Lamb ridicule Me. -[561.40 --> 562.10] If every breath that I envy you в time her. -[562.10 --> 562.90] Um天antraunk으로 will Savvy. -[563.12 --> 563.48] Thatburst will cover me in listen to audience of God. -[563.56 --> 564.30] Women fail. -[564.30 --> 565.78] It's from the Lord manifester west mount store for you. -[565.78 --> 581.26] Good morning. -[582.48 --> 587.44] Happy New Year's to all of you who are here with us. -[587.52 --> 591.74] I suspect there will be some who filter in over the next few minutes as well. -[591.74 --> 597.00] It is good for us to get together and to worship God. -[597.08 --> 599.34] My name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors here. -[599.54 --> 604.36] And a special welcome to you if you are visiting or checking us out online for the first time. -[604.72 --> 608.26] We're excited to worship together this morning. -[608.40 --> 613.24] Before we begin our worship, we have just one quick announcement. -[613.86 --> 617.18] Next week, Sunday, is youth coffee. -[617.18 --> 625.12] So after service, our youth group goes to someone's house for lunch and hanging out afterwards. -[625.74 --> 628.56] And we're looking for someone to host them. -[629.56 --> 633.08] So it's a week away, and Kevin needs someone. -[633.20 --> 637.02] So if you can host youth coffee next week, Sunday, after service, -[637.60 --> 640.48] grab Kevin following our time together this morning. -[640.90 --> 644.68] Let him know so we can make sure that that happens together. -[644.68 --> 649.08] I'm going to invite you to stand as you're able and where you are. -[649.40 --> 653.40] We can enter God's presence together this morning in worship. -[655.88 --> 663.28] We gather together in this place because God is present here in a unique and powerful way -[663.28 --> 668.40] when two or three believers gather together in worship around the Word. -[668.40 --> 672.40] And so he greets us and welcomes us into his presence. -[672.54 --> 675.06] And so receive the greeting of our God. -[676.06 --> 683.08] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, -[683.52 --> 686.04] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[687.16 --> 687.48] Amen. -[688.34 --> 692.88] I'm going to invite you to turn to those with whom we are worshiping and welcome them into worship. -[692.88 --> 698.18] Do so with a handshake or a fist pump or eye contact, depending on the people around you. -[698.40 --> 698.92] Amen. -[698.92 --> 699.40] Amen. -[699.40 --> 699.52] Amen. -[699.52 --> 699.90] Amen. -[699.90 --> 699.92] Amen. -[699.92 --> 700.42] Amen. -[700.42 --> 700.46] Amen. -[700.46 --> 700.50] Amen. -[700.50 --> 700.58] Amen. -[700.58 --> 700.98] Amen. -[700.98 --> 701.02] Amen. -[701.02 --> 701.50] Amen. -[722.88 --> 731.02] Amen. -[731.02 --> 731.46] Amen. -[731.46 --> 734.70] Before I start our call to worship, I should have asked Pastor Chris to announce, -[735.20 --> 740.52] we are hosting Sunridge Gardens worship on Saturday, this coming Saturday. -[740.62 --> 743.74] If you haven't been, it's nice to have a few people out from the congregation. -[744.48 --> 745.68] Paul and I are going to lead. -[746.42 --> 748.84] If you don't know what it is, come and chat with me. -[748.84 --> 753.92] But basically, we're leading worship at Sunridge Gardens, Seniors Home just up the hill in Murrayville, -[754.06 --> 756.18] and love to have some people out from our congregation. -[758.12 --> 759.66] Our call to worship this morning. -[759.78 --> 765.94] It's good to remind ourselves, as we start a new year, how thoroughly our Father knows us -[765.94 --> 768.56] and how deeply he loves us. -[769.42 --> 771.92] In Psalm 139, we read, -[772.88 --> 775.58] You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. -[775.58 --> 778.76] You know when I sit and when I rise. -[779.04 --> 781.60] You perceive my thoughts from afar. -[782.26 --> 785.60] You discern my going out and my lying down. -[786.22 --> 788.42] You are familiar with all my ways. -[789.38 --> 793.80] Before a word is on my tongue, you, Lord, know it completely. -[794.74 --> 799.46] You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me. -[799.46 --> 805.90] Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. -[806.92 --> 811.32] As we worship God this morning, may we celebrate his deep love for us. -[811.92 --> 815.34] May we see his glory and be captivated by his beauty. -[815.82 --> 816.68] Let's worship together. -[816.68 --> 838.14] Jesus, hope of the nations -[838.14 --> 843.54] Jesus, comfort for all who hold -[843.54 --> 855.14] Jesus, light in the darkness -[855.14 --> 859.78] Jesus, truth in the circumstances -[859.78 --> 867.28] You are the source of heaven's light on earth -[867.28 --> 871.74] In history, you live and die -[871.74 --> 876.74] You broke the truth, you rose to life -[876.74 --> 881.40] You are the hope, living in us -[881.40 --> 885.48] You are the rock, in whom we trust -[885.48 --> 892.06] You are the light, shining for all the world to see -[892.06 --> 895.94] You rose from the death -[895.94 --> 895.96] You rose from the death -[895.96 --> 898.10] Conquer and fear -[898.10 --> 900.32] Our prince of kings -[900.32 --> 902.28] Drawing us near -[902.28 --> 904.38] Jesus, our Lord -[904.38 --> 908.66] Living for all who will receive -[908.66 --> 912.26] Lord, we believe -[912.26 --> 922.26] Jesus, our Lord -[922.26 --> 924.66] Jesus, hope of the nations -[924.66 --> 929.94] Jesus, comfort for all who hold -[929.94 --> 936.74] You are the source of heaven's love on earth -[936.74 --> 941.20] Jesus, light in the darkness -[941.20 --> 946.20] Jesus, in the circumstances -[946.20 --> 953.28] You are the source of heaven's light on earth -[953.28 --> 957.98] In history, you live and die -[957.98 --> 962.58] You broke the chains, you rose to life -[962.58 --> 965.00] You are the source of heaven's light on earth -[965.00 --> 966.46] You are the vine -[966.46 --> 967.06] You are the source of heaven's young -[967.06 --> 978.04] You are the source of heaven's dreams -[978.04 --> 978.78] You are the Son and many of us -[978.78 --> 979.92] You are the source of heaven's image -[979.92 --> 981.02] You are the one leading us -[981.02 --> 982.96] And you are the source of heaven's light -[982.96 --> 984.32] You are the wonder -[984.32 --> 985.82] You're theURE, tonto for all who hold -[985.82 --> 986.34] You are the heart -[986.34 --> 986.84] You are the eye -[987.52 --> 987.78] You're the source of heaven's дети -[987.78 --> 988.96] You are the most, living in the earth -[988.96 --> 995.28] Jesus our Lord, living for all who will be free. -[997.28 --> 998.96] Lord, we believe. -[1001.18 --> 1003.22] Lord, we believe. -[1005.36 --> 1007.60] Lord, we believe. -[1018.96 --> 1048.94] Lord, we believe. -[1048.96 --> 1078.94] Lord, we believe. -[1078.96 --> 1080.96] Lord, we believe. -[1080.96 --> 1084.96] Lord, we believe. -[1084.96 --> 1088.72] Lord, we believe. -[1088.72 --> 1093.52] just -[1096.48 --> 1104.72] oh -[1108.64 --> 1110.00] ? -[1110.16 --> 1113.68] maturity -[1118.72 --> 1126.72] He is gone, Lord our Lord. -[1130.72 --> 1137.72] If I can see, still I be spared. -[1139.02 --> 1143.72] I rest on His unchanging grace. -[1143.72 --> 1150.72] In every night I am stormy dead. -[1151.72 --> 1157.72] My anchor holds the day in the rain. -[1158.72 --> 1164.72] My anchor holds the day in the rain. -[1164.72 --> 1172.72] I shall know, Lord of soul. -[1173.72 --> 1179.72] With His strong Savior's love. -[1180.72 --> 1188.72] Through the storm, He is gone, Lord our Lord. -[1188.72 --> 1200.72] And He shall come with trumpet sound. -[1200.72 --> 1207.72] Oh, may I let in Him be found. -[1208.72 --> 1213.72] Dressed in His righteousness alone. -[1215.72 --> 1220.72] All that stand before the Lord. -[1220.72 --> 1222.72] I shall know, Lord of soul. -[1222.72 --> 1224.72] I shall know, Lord of soul. -[1224.72 --> 1226.72] I shall know, Lord of soul. -[1226.72 --> 1232.72] I shall know, Lord of soul. -[1232.72 --> 1236.72] I shall know, Lord of soul. -[1236.72 --> 1242.72] He pray the song in the Savior's love. -[1242.72 --> 1248.72] I shall know, Lord of soul. -[1248.72 --> 1254.72] He pray the song in the Savior's love. -[1254.72 --> 1255.72] In Savior's love. -[1255.72 --> 1256.72] In Savior's love. -[1256.72 --> 1260.72] Through the storm, He is gone, Lord of soul. -[1260.72 --> 1271.72] He is gone, Lord of soul. -[1271.72 --> 1276.72] I shall know, Lord of soul. -[1276.72 --> 1281.72] He pray the song in the Savior's love. -[1281.72 --> 1299.74] because God sizes full. -[1299.74 --> 1312.42] For our confession and assurance, -[1313.62 --> 1318.74] please hear these words from Psalm 139. -[1321.26 --> 1323.30] Where can I go from your spirit? -[1324.00 --> 1326.36] Where can I flee from your presence? -[1327.44 --> 1329.70] If I go up to the heavens, you are there. -[1329.90 --> 1333.10] If I make my bed in the depths, you are there. -[1333.98 --> 1336.38] If I rise on the wings of the dawn, -[1336.88 --> 1339.38] if I settle on the far side of the sea, -[1340.46 --> 1342.80] even there your hand will guide me. -[1344.02 --> 1346.50] Your right hand will hold me fast. -[1347.82 --> 1348.62] Just power heads. -[1351.36 --> 1354.42] Father, in this new year, -[1354.42 --> 1358.66] there will be times when we will be tempted to go our own way. -[1359.74 --> 1362.18] To flee from your presence. -[1363.10 --> 1365.28] Father, call us back to you. -[1366.38 --> 1369.30] There is no place your spirit can't find us. -[1370.26 --> 1371.48] You have searched us. -[1372.36 --> 1373.28] You know us. -[1374.28 --> 1375.50] And yet, in your love, -[1375.94 --> 1379.96] you choose to hold us fast with your right hand. -[1379.96 --> 1383.94] Such love is beyond our comprehension. -[1385.02 --> 1386.82] No matter where we are, -[1387.76 --> 1390.02] or in what circumstance we find ourselves. -[1391.32 --> 1394.34] Father, help us rest in you, -[1395.00 --> 1397.10] knowing you have surrounded us with your love. -[1398.20 --> 1401.36] Help us to trust you enough to not want to leave your presence. -[1401.36 --> 1403.16] And as we worship, -[1403.30 --> 1405.68] will you show us again the depth of your love. -[1406.48 --> 1406.78] Amen. -[1406.78 --> 1407.00] Amen. -[1409.14 --> 1410.14] Amen. -[1410.14 --> 1424.30] I love you, Lord. -[1424.30 --> 1430.30] Oh, your mercy never fails me -[1430.30 --> 1437.30] All my days I've been held in your hands -[1437.30 --> 1441.30] From the moment that I wake up -[1441.30 --> 1445.30] Till I lay my hand -[1445.30 --> 1451.30] I will sing for the good hands of God -[1451.30 --> 1459.30] I love you, Lord -[1459.30 --> 1464.30] Oh, your mercy never fails me -[1464.30 --> 1471.30] All my days I've been held in your hands -[1471.30 --> 1475.30] From the moment that I wake up -[1475.30 --> 1479.30] Till I lay my hand -[1479.30 --> 1485.30] I will sing for the good hands of God -[1485.30 --> 1493.30] All my life you have been faithful -[1493.30 --> 1501.30] All my life you have been so, so good -[1501.30 --> 1507.30] With every breath that I am able -[1507.30 --> 1513.30] I will sing for the good hands of God -[1513.30 --> 1521.30] I love your voice -[1521.30 --> 1525.30] You have led me through the fire -[1525.30 --> 1529.30] From darkest night -[1529.30 --> 1535.30] You are close like your mother -[1535.30 --> 1537.30] I've known you as a mother -[1537.30 --> 1541.30] I've known you as a friend -[1541.30 --> 1547.30] I have been so, so good -[1547.30 --> 1553.30] All my life you have been so, so good -[1553.30 --> 1559.30] And every breath that I am able -[1559.30 --> 1563.30] I will sing for the good hands of God -[1563.30 --> 1565.30] Every breath that I am able -[1565.30 --> 1569.30] Every breath that I am able -[1569.30 --> 1573.30] I will sing for the good hands of God -[1573.30 --> 1575.30] Your goodness is running after you -[1575.30 --> 1587.30] Your goodness is running after me -[1587.30 --> 1589.30] Your goodness is running after me -[1589.30 --> 1619.28] Thank you. -[1619.30 --> 1649.28] Thank you. -[1649.30 --> 1651.30] Thank you. -[1679.30 --> 1681.30] Thank you. -[1709.30 --> 1711.30] Thank you. -[1711.30 --> 1713.30] Thank you. -[1713.30 --> 1715.30] Thank you. -[1743.30 --> 1745.30] Thank you. -[1745.30 --> 1747.30] Thank you. -[1747.30 --> 1749.30] Thank you. -[1749.30 --> 1751.30] Thank you. -[1751.30 --> 1753.30] Thank you. -[1753.30 --> 1755.30] Thank you. -[1755.30 --> 1757.30] Thank you. -[1757.30 --> 1775.62] Open up my eyes in wonder and show me who you are and fill me with your heart and healing in your love to those around me. -[1787.30 --> 1811.30] Jesus, the name above every other name. Jesus, the only one who could ever save. Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe. We live for you. -[1811.30 --> 1841.28] We live for you. -[1841.30 --> 1871.28] We live for you. -[1871.28 --> 1873.28] We live for you. -[1873.28 --> 1877.28] We live for you. -[1877.28 --> 1879.28] We live for you. -[1879.28 --> 1881.28] We live for you. -[1881.28 --> 1883.28] We live for you. -[1883.28 --> 1885.28] We live for you. -[1885.28 --> 1887.28] We live for you. -[1887.28 --> 1889.28] We live for you. -[1889.28 --> 1891.28] We live for you. -[1891.28 --> 1893.28] We live for you. -[1893.28 --> 1895.28] We live for you. -[1895.28 --> 1897.28] We live for you. -[1897.28 --> 1899.28] We live for you. -[1899.28 --> 1901.28] We live for you. -[1901.28 --> 1903.28] We live for you. -[1903.28 --> 1905.28] We live for you. -[1905.28 --> 1907.28] We live for you. -[1907.28 --> 1909.28] We live for you. -[1909.28 --> 1911.28] We live for you. -[1911.28 --> 1913.28] We live for you. -[1913.28 --> 1915.28] We live for you. -[1915.28 --> 1917.28] We live for you. -[1917.28 --> 1919.28] We live for you. -[1919.28 --> 1921.28] We live for you. -[1921.28 --> 1923.28] We live for you. -[1923.28 --> 1925.28] We live for you. -[1925.28 --> 1927.28] We live for you. -[1927.28 --> 1929.28] We live for you. -[1929.28 --> 1931.28] We live for you. -[1931.28 --> 1933.28] We live for you. -[1933.28 --> 1935.28] We live for you. -[1935.28 --> 1937.28] We live for you. -[1937.28 --> 1939.28] Who you are. -[1939.28 --> 1941.28] And fill me with your heart. -[1941.28 --> 1951.28] And lead me in your love to those around me. -[1967.28 --> 1971.28] We live for you. -[1973.28 --> 1978.38] We live for you. -[1979.28 --> 1985.28] Beautiful Savior. -[1985.28 --> 1992.28] King of creation. -[1992.28 --> 2004.76] Son of God and Son of Man. -[2004.76 --> 2011.12] To Thee I love Thee. -[2011.44 --> 2016.76] To Thee I swear Thee. -[2016.76 --> 2027.76] Light of my soul, my joy, my joy. -[2027.76 --> 2034.76] Where are the mellows? -[2034.76 --> 2040.76] Where are the waters? -[2040.76 --> 2050.02] The quid fouls, the blue winds quake. -[2050.02 --> 2076.62] Jesus is heaven, Jesus is pure, He makes our soul in spirit sing. -[2076.62 --> 2102.42] Where is the sunshine, where is the moonlight, bright the sparkling stars on high. -[2102.42 --> 2125.42] Jesus shines brighter, Jesus shines purer, than all the angels in the sky. -[2125.42 --> 2138.42] Beautiful Savior, Lord of the nations. -[2138.42 --> 2150.42] Son of God, Son of God. -[2150.42 --> 2162.42] Glory and honor, praise and all nations. -[2162.42 --> 2167.42] God, God, God. -[2167.42 --> 2171.42] God, God, God. -[2171.42 --> 2174.42] Be mine. -[2174.42 --> 2196.42] Amen. -[2196.42 --> 2199.42] My name is Brenda and I'm a deacon here at Emmanuel. -[2199.42 --> 2202.42] We continue our worship with the giving of our gifts. -[2202.42 --> 2206.42] First to the budget, which covers the administration of the church and its ministries. -[2206.42 --> 2210.42] And our special offering today is for Life Recovery in Abbotsford. -[2210.42 --> 2220.42] Life Recovery Association is a Christian registered charity providing abstinence based residential recovery support for women to overcome addiction. -[2220.42 --> 2223.42] They're located in the heart of Abbotsford. -[2223.42 --> 2227.42] Life Recovery offers a continuum of residential support services. -[2227.42 --> 2235.42] They have three homes, two different stages, ranging from stays of three months to years, depending on the client needs. -[2235.42 --> 2244.42] Our commitment is to the delivery of programs that focus on physical, mental, spiritual and emotional well-being. -[2244.42 --> 2257.42] The mission of Life Recovery is to exist to provide a safe, structured and supportive Christian community for women who desire a lifestyle free from drug and alcohol addiction. -[2257.42 --> 2261.42] Life stands for living in freedom every day. -[2261.42 --> 2270.42] For over 20 years, more than 2,000 women have experienced freedom from the power of addiction with support from Life Recovery. -[2270.42 --> 2277.42] Sadly, substance abuse continues to devastate many and remains a leading cause of death in BC. -[2277.42 --> 2284.42] Life Recovery is committed to walking alongside women who are working to overcome addiction. -[2284.42 --> 2287.42] And we would be honored if you would join in this cause. -[2287.42 --> 2290.42] Hebrews 13, verse 16 says, -[2290.42 --> 2296.42] And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifice God is pleased. -[2296.42 --> 2298.42] Next week's offering is for name. -[2298.42 --> 2299.42] Next week's offering is for name. -[2299.42 --> 2303.42] Next week's offering is for name. -[2303.42 --> 2324.52] I am my eyes up to the mountains -[2324.52 --> 2329.12] Where has my mouth come from? -[2329.12 --> 2338.02] I am from some new, maker of heaven -[2338.02 --> 2343.44] Creator of the earth -[2343.44 --> 2349.12] Lord, I need you, Lord -[2349.12 --> 2352.12] You are my only God -[2352.78 --> 2357.12] You're my only God -[2357.12 --> 2362.42] So I'm waiting for you -[2362.42 --> 2366.02] To come and rescue me -[2366.02 --> 2370.12] Come and bring me life -[2370.82 --> 2378.12] I am my eyes up to the mountains -[2378.12 --> 2383.02] Where has my mouth come from? -[2383.02 --> 2387.02] I am my eyes up to the mountains -[2387.02 --> 2391.92] Where has my heart come from? -[2391.92 --> 2395.92] I am my eyes up to the mountains -[2395.92 --> 2400.82] I am my eyes up to the mountains -[2400.82 --> 2402.82] I am my eyes up to the mountains -[2402.82 --> 2404.82] You are my only God -[2404.82 --> 2406.82] You are my only God -[2406.82 --> 2408.82] You are my only God -[2408.82 --> 2414.12] So I will wait for you -[2414.12 --> 2415.12] So I will wait for you -[2415.12 --> 2417.72] To come and rescue me -[2417.72 --> 2421.72] Come and bring me life -[2421.72 --> 2430.62] I am my eyes up to the mountains -[2430.62 --> 2435.52] Where does my heart come from? -[2435.52 --> 2439.52] I am my eyes up to the mountains -[2439.52 --> 2444.42] I am my eyes up to the mountains -[2444.42 --> 2447.42] I would love to invite any kids -[2447.42 --> 2448.42] Who are out there -[2448.42 --> 2451.02] To come on up to the front right now -[2451.02 --> 2453.72] And join me up here -[2453.72 --> 2463.62] Merry January New Year -[2463.62 --> 2464.02] To you -[2464.02 --> 2470.12] Good morning everyone -[2470.12 --> 2472.36] How are we doing today? -[2473.02 --> 2473.58] Good -[2473.58 --> 2476.82] You know I usually have a friend with me -[2476.82 --> 2478.70] Hank the Hound -[2478.70 --> 2480.80] But you know what Hank had to tell you today? -[2480.80 --> 2482.58] He couldn't be here this morning -[2482.58 --> 2483.88] Because Hank has a cold -[2483.88 --> 2487.38] So and it's very hard for Hank to speak -[2487.38 --> 2488.36] When he has a cold -[2488.36 --> 2491.18] So he'll come back next time -[2491.18 --> 2491.76] He promises -[2491.76 --> 2493.88] But he's having a nap in my office right now -[2493.88 --> 2494.38] Is that okay? -[2495.08 --> 2495.56] Yeah -[2495.56 --> 2496.98] Now I have a question -[2496.98 --> 2498.62] What day is it today? -[2499.72 --> 2501.20] It's New Year's -[2501.20 --> 2503.48] Do you know what's a good thing to do on New Year's Day? -[2503.86 --> 2506.04] To look back at the last year -[2506.04 --> 2507.92] And ask what are we thankful for -[2507.92 --> 2509.10] That happened last year? -[2509.10 --> 2511.34] Does anybody have anything that they can remember -[2511.34 --> 2512.24] That they're thankful for? -[2512.32 --> 2512.68] Yeah Haley -[2512.68 --> 2516.58] Thankful that Jesus was born -[2516.58 --> 2518.14] I think we're all thankful for that -[2518.14 --> 2518.44] Right? -[2518.90 --> 2519.26] What else? -[2519.34 --> 2519.46] Yeah? -[2527.82 --> 2529.48] Oh you're thankful that you didn't have to -[2529.48 --> 2531.14] That Jesus did that for us -[2531.14 --> 2531.38] Right? -[2531.82 --> 2533.16] I think we're all thankful for that too -[2533.16 --> 2534.30] These are such good answers -[2534.30 --> 2536.42] What else are we thankful for? -[2536.42 --> 2536.48] What else are we thankful for? -[2539.10 --> 2539.36] Anybody? -[2539.80 --> 2540.80] Do you know what I'm thankful for? -[2541.40 --> 2542.66] I'm thankful for family -[2542.66 --> 2543.80] And for friends -[2543.80 --> 2546.30] And that we have a church family here -[2546.30 --> 2547.88] That we get to come to on Sundays -[2547.88 --> 2549.62] And we get to see during the week as well -[2549.62 --> 2551.18] And that we get to worship Jesus -[2551.18 --> 2553.12] Who was born and who died on the cross for us -[2553.12 --> 2554.52] Isn't that great? -[2555.12 --> 2556.14] Yeah I think that's wonderful -[2556.14 --> 2557.50] So what we're going to do right now -[2557.50 --> 2558.34] I'm going to pray -[2558.34 --> 2560.62] But today because it's New Year's -[2560.62 --> 2562.72] There's actually not children's worship time today -[2562.72 --> 2563.98] So we're going to go back with our parents -[2563.98 --> 2565.34] But children's worship time -[2565.34 --> 2565.94] Good news -[2565.94 --> 2567.62] Comes back next week -[2567.62 --> 2568.12] Okay? -[2568.96 --> 2570.46] So we'll go and we'll do that again there -[2570.46 --> 2571.24] But what we'll do right now -[2571.24 --> 2571.76] Is we'll pray -[2571.76 --> 2573.84] And then Pastor Chris is going to come to the front -[2573.84 --> 2574.10] Okay? -[2574.62 --> 2575.36] Can you bow your heads? -[2575.44 --> 2575.96] Close your eyes? -[2576.20 --> 2576.68] Let's pray -[2576.68 --> 2578.66] Dear Lord -[2578.66 --> 2581.06] We thank you so much for this past year -[2581.06 --> 2582.96] As these kids reminded us -[2582.96 --> 2583.10] Lord -[2583.10 --> 2584.24] We're thankful for your birth -[2584.24 --> 2586.56] And we're thankful for your sacrifice on the cross -[2586.56 --> 2588.64] That you died and rose again -[2588.64 --> 2590.36] To forgive us of all of our sins -[2590.36 --> 2590.98] And Lord -[2590.98 --> 2591.86] What better gifts -[2591.86 --> 2593.76] There could never be than that -[2593.76 --> 2594.26] And Lord -[2594.26 --> 2595.14] Today as we -[2595.14 --> 2596.44] Open up the Bible -[2596.44 --> 2597.62] As we sit back in church -[2597.62 --> 2598.60] And listen to your word -[2598.60 --> 2598.80] Lord -[2598.80 --> 2600.08] We pray that you will help -[2600.08 --> 2601.88] Teach all of us here today -[2601.88 --> 2602.74] A little bit more -[2602.74 --> 2604.16] About what it means to follow you -[2604.16 --> 2604.74] In this world -[2604.74 --> 2606.32] We pray this in your name -[2606.32 --> 2607.28] Amen -[2607.28 --> 2608.08] Alright -[2608.08 --> 2608.96] Thanks for coming up here -[2608.96 --> 2609.50] I appreciate that -[2609.50 --> 2610.60] Let's go back with our parents -[2610.60 --> 2610.86] Okay? -[2620.36 --> 2629.30] My privilege to lead in prayer -[2629.30 --> 2632.46] So I'm going to do that from over here -[2632.46 --> 2633.62] Before moving over there -[2633.62 --> 2637.46] Before we pray -[2637.46 --> 2642.64] We've heard this morning from Marie Grimm -[2642.64 --> 2645.16] Her stepmom who lives in Phoenix -[2645.16 --> 2648.42] Is in hospital and has been suffering with seizures -[2648.42 --> 2653.12] And so she has asked us to pray for her -[2653.12 --> 2654.10] And for their family -[2654.10 --> 2657.58] As they ask questions -[2657.58 --> 2659.02] And work through this together -[2659.02 --> 2661.26] Looking for peace and care -[2661.26 --> 2663.92] In the midst of whatever this ends up being -[2663.92 --> 2666.34] And so we'll remember them in our prayers -[2666.34 --> 2668.72] Additionally, next week Sunday -[2668.72 --> 2670.34] So January 8th -[2670.34 --> 2672.52] Not only is there children's worship time -[2672.52 --> 2673.12] Yay! -[2673.12 --> 2676.28] All the parents rejoiced -[2676.28 --> 2679.44] But there is also Lord's Supper -[2679.44 --> 2682.18] And so next week we will gather together -[2682.18 --> 2683.72] At the table of our Lord -[2683.72 --> 2686.12] And so we encourage you over this week -[2686.12 --> 2687.94] To talk to your families -[2687.94 --> 2689.86] Talk to your friends -[2689.86 --> 2690.96] And those whom you know -[2690.96 --> 2692.78] About what it means to come to the table -[2692.78 --> 2695.84] To seek reconciliation with each other -[2695.84 --> 2697.46] So that we can all come to the table -[2697.46 --> 2699.10] Well and with integrity -[2699.10 --> 2701.48] And meet Jesus there -[2701.48 --> 2705.12] I'm going to lead us -[2705.12 --> 2706.76] In a time of prayer together -[2706.76 --> 2707.80] So I invite you to -[2707.80 --> 2709.70] Join your heart with mine -[2709.70 --> 2710.70] As we pray -[2710.70 --> 2711.42] Let's pray -[2711.42 --> 2721.64] Lord God -[2721.64 --> 2726.80] Lord God -[2726.80 --> 2729.28] We gather in your presence -[2729.28 --> 2730.72] On this Sunday -[2730.72 --> 2736.16] We gather because you have called us -[2736.16 --> 2737.30] To be here -[2737.30 --> 2739.42] And because you are worthy of praise -[2739.42 --> 2741.42] And we gather because -[2741.42 --> 2744.30] Because we need to be here -[2744.30 --> 2747.68] Because we need more of you -[2747.68 --> 2749.44] Because Lord God -[2749.44 --> 2751.52] We have so many things -[2751.52 --> 2752.80] That are causing our hearts -[2752.80 --> 2755.44] To cry out in agony and despair -[2755.44 --> 2757.64] And to cry out in celebration -[2757.64 --> 2758.84] And joy -[2758.84 --> 2761.04] And so Lord God -[2761.04 --> 2762.58] This morning in our worship -[2762.58 --> 2764.96] We bring all of who we are -[2764.96 --> 2767.60] To all of who you are -[2767.60 --> 2770.88] And so even as we come -[2770.88 --> 2771.44] Lord God -[2771.44 --> 2771.96] We come -[2771.96 --> 2774.66] Some of us full of anxiety -[2774.66 --> 2775.76] And fear -[2775.76 --> 2778.28] Some of us full of sorrow -[2778.28 --> 2779.42] And heartbreak -[2779.42 --> 2782.02] Some of us full of life -[2782.02 --> 2782.96] And excitement -[2782.96 --> 2786.20] Some of us full of frustration -[2786.20 --> 2787.90] And fear -[2787.90 --> 2790.56] We come Lord God -[2790.56 --> 2791.92] Some of us having seen you -[2791.92 --> 2792.80] At work in the world -[2792.80 --> 2793.76] So clearly -[2793.76 --> 2796.10] Over the course of this past year -[2796.10 --> 2797.82] And so we celebrate -[2797.82 --> 2799.56] And we praise your name -[2799.56 --> 2801.08] For the way that you have been -[2801.08 --> 2802.70] So powerfully -[2802.70 --> 2803.86] And visibly present -[2803.86 --> 2806.92] And we come -[2806.92 --> 2808.24] Lord God -[2808.24 --> 2810.58] Some of us -[2810.58 --> 2811.88] Because we haven't -[2811.88 --> 2813.42] Been able to see you -[2813.42 --> 2815.98] Because we've cried out -[2815.98 --> 2816.76] For you to -[2816.76 --> 2818.40] Change a circumstance -[2818.40 --> 2820.10] For you to restore a life -[2820.10 --> 2821.18] For you to reconcile -[2821.18 --> 2822.14] A relationship -[2822.14 --> 2823.42] And it has not yet -[2823.42 --> 2824.34] Happened -[2824.34 --> 2825.72] And so we come here -[2825.72 --> 2826.42] Because -[2826.42 --> 2828.32] Where else can we go -[2828.32 --> 2831.66] We come here -[2831.66 --> 2832.52] Because we've tried -[2832.52 --> 2833.56] Everything else -[2833.56 --> 2834.38] And so now -[2834.38 --> 2836.02] We look to you -[2836.02 --> 2841.72] God for whatever reason -[2841.72 --> 2844.00] It is that we gather here -[2844.00 --> 2846.70] We know -[2846.70 --> 2847.96] And believe -[2847.96 --> 2849.80] That you have -[2849.80 --> 2850.84] Brought us -[2850.84 --> 2852.20] To this place -[2852.20 --> 2853.78] You have brought us -[2853.78 --> 2854.94] To this church family -[2854.94 --> 2856.00] That you have brought us -[2856.00 --> 2857.78] To worship here today -[2857.78 --> 2859.62] On January 1st -[2859.62 --> 2860.66] 2023 -[2860.66 --> 2863.12] That your work -[2863.12 --> 2863.86] In the world -[2863.86 --> 2865.78] Has carried us -[2865.78 --> 2866.66] Here -[2866.66 --> 2867.70] And so -[2867.70 --> 2869.42] Speak now -[2869.42 --> 2870.34] Your love -[2870.34 --> 2871.50] To our hearts -[2871.50 --> 2874.54] Speak now -[2874.54 --> 2875.18] In a voice -[2875.18 --> 2876.24] That we might hear -[2876.24 --> 2877.72] Speak now -[2877.72 --> 2878.96] In tender compassion -[2878.96 --> 2880.02] That we might -[2880.02 --> 2881.54] Feel restored -[2881.54 --> 2882.82] Speak now -[2882.82 --> 2885.64] The truth -[2885.64 --> 2888.32] Of your word -[2888.32 --> 2889.40] For our life -[2889.40 --> 2890.74] That we might -[2890.74 --> 2891.42] Be convicted -[2891.42 --> 2892.16] And we might -[2892.16 --> 2892.82] Be transformed -[2892.82 --> 2893.82] By the renewing -[2893.82 --> 2894.42] Of our minds -[2894.42 --> 2895.66] Through the power -[2895.66 --> 2896.20] And work -[2896.20 --> 2897.04] Of the Holy Spirit -[2897.04 --> 2898.30] Here present -[2898.30 --> 2901.68] Father God -[2901.68 --> 2903.18] As we gather -[2903.18 --> 2903.82] There are -[2903.82 --> 2904.86] Many reasons -[2904.86 --> 2905.78] For us -[2905.78 --> 2906.44] To pray -[2906.44 --> 2909.02] Father God -[2909.02 --> 2910.70] With the Grimm family -[2910.70 --> 2911.36] We pray -[2911.36 --> 2912.50] For Helen -[2912.50 --> 2913.28] And Phoenix -[2913.28 --> 2913.92] And for -[2913.92 --> 2915.92] Her struggle -[2915.92 --> 2916.80] And now treatment -[2916.80 --> 2917.86] With seizures -[2917.86 --> 2919.28] And for whatever -[2919.28 --> 2920.02] Is next -[2920.02 --> 2920.58] In the midst -[2920.58 --> 2921.20] Of all of that -[2921.20 --> 2921.64] Lord God -[2921.64 --> 2921.98] We pray -[2921.98 --> 2922.64] For peace -[2922.64 --> 2923.74] We pray -[2923.74 --> 2924.46] For strength -[2924.46 --> 2925.98] And we pray -[2925.98 --> 2926.48] That you -[2926.48 --> 2927.16] Would be -[2927.16 --> 2928.64] Present in power -[2928.64 --> 2929.96] And so -[2929.96 --> 2930.76] Give Marie -[2930.76 --> 2931.86] And the family -[2931.86 --> 2932.86] All that they need -[2932.86 --> 2933.76] To provide care -[2933.76 --> 2934.50] From a distance -[2934.50 --> 2935.90] And to -[2935.90 --> 2937.98] Be present -[2937.98 --> 2939.22] With mom -[2939.22 --> 2940.28] Together -[2940.28 --> 2943.38] Father God -[2943.38 --> 2943.88] We pray -[2943.88 --> 2944.72] A prayer -[2944.72 --> 2945.46] Of thanksgiving -[2945.46 --> 2946.08] With Brenda -[2946.08 --> 2946.72] And Jody -[2946.72 --> 2947.24] And Linda -[2947.24 --> 2948.54] That their mom -[2948.54 --> 2949.82] Teenie could be home -[2949.82 --> 2950.50] This week -[2950.50 --> 2952.52] Having had -[2952.52 --> 2953.20] Surgery -[2953.20 --> 2954.30] In Vancouver -[2954.30 --> 2954.96] She can now -[2954.96 --> 2955.44] Be home -[2955.44 --> 2956.20] And we are -[2956.20 --> 2956.66] Grateful -[2956.66 --> 2957.42] Lord God -[2957.42 --> 2958.18] For your answered -[2958.18 --> 2958.58] Prayer -[2958.58 --> 2959.74] In that regard -[2959.74 --> 2960.98] We pray -[2960.98 --> 2961.26] That you would -[2961.26 --> 2961.94] Continue to -[2961.94 --> 2962.66] Bless her -[2962.66 --> 2963.26] Recovery -[2963.26 --> 2964.06] Give her -[2964.06 --> 2965.06] What she needs -[2965.06 --> 2966.32] To be restored -[2966.32 --> 2967.00] To health -[2967.00 --> 2967.72] And give her -[2967.72 --> 2968.44] Patience -[2968.44 --> 2969.58] As she -[2969.58 --> 2970.58] Walks -[2970.58 --> 2971.64] This road -[2971.64 --> 2973.80] Pray Lord -[2973.80 --> 2974.46] That you would -[2974.46 --> 2975.80] Continue to -[2975.80 --> 2977.36] Restore her -[2977.36 --> 2978.16] And what she -[2978.16 --> 2978.56] Needs -[2978.56 --> 2980.90] God we know -[2980.90 --> 2981.54] Too that there -[2981.54 --> 2982.14] Are others -[2982.14 --> 2982.76] Among us -[2982.76 --> 2983.26] Who are -[2983.26 --> 2984.42] Recovering -[2984.42 --> 2985.28] From surgery -[2985.28 --> 2985.90] Or from -[2985.90 --> 2986.64] A treatment -[2986.64 --> 2987.38] Of one sort -[2987.38 --> 2988.00] Or another -[2988.00 --> 2988.84] And we pray -[2988.84 --> 2989.40] That you would -[2989.40 --> 2990.56] Be near to them -[2990.56 --> 2992.58] God we thank you -[2992.58 --> 2994.66] That John's -[2994.66 --> 2995.06] Recovery -[2995.06 --> 2995.90] Is going -[2995.90 --> 2996.96] Well after -[2996.96 --> 2998.04] His knee surgery -[2998.04 --> 2999.46] And we pray -[2999.46 --> 2999.98] That you would -[2999.98 --> 3001.02] Be near to him -[3001.02 --> 3001.60] In the midst -[3001.60 --> 3001.96] Of this -[3001.96 --> 3002.38] Give him -[3002.38 --> 3002.98] Patience -[3002.98 --> 3003.96] And peace -[3003.96 --> 3004.80] Allow him -[3004.80 --> 3006.16] To rest -[3006.16 --> 3006.96] In your -[3006.96 --> 3007.60] Nearness -[3007.60 --> 3009.38] God we pray -[3009.38 --> 3009.82] The same -[3009.82 --> 3010.36] For Harry -[3010.36 --> 3010.84] As he -[3010.84 --> 3011.70] Recovers -[3011.70 --> 3012.44] And continues -[3012.44 --> 3013.00] His -[3013.00 --> 3014.28] Physiotherapy -[3014.28 --> 3015.76] And the -[3015.76 --> 3016.18] Work that -[3016.18 --> 3017.06] Comes after -[3017.06 --> 3018.82] His surgery -[3018.82 --> 3019.38] Give him -[3019.38 --> 3020.30] All that he -[3020.30 --> 3020.78] Needs -[3020.78 --> 3021.78] To be -[3021.78 --> 3022.32] Restored -[3022.32 --> 3023.22] Again to -[3023.22 --> 3024.66] A picture -[3024.66 --> 3025.30] Of health -[3025.30 --> 3026.54] And that his -[3026.54 --> 3028.60] Laughter and -[3028.60 --> 3029.42] Joy might -[3029.42 --> 3031.04] Be once again -[3031.04 --> 3032.48] Shared and -[3032.48 --> 3033.28] Granted to -[3033.28 --> 3034.10] All of us -[3034.10 --> 3034.96] Who know -[3034.96 --> 3035.20] Him -[3035.20 --> 3036.66] Father we -[3036.66 --> 3036.96] Pray the -[3036.96 --> 3037.34] Same for -[3037.34 --> 3037.68] Trudy -[3037.68 --> 3038.40] That you -[3038.40 --> 3038.66] Would -[3038.66 --> 3039.92] Continue to -[3039.92 --> 3040.68] Give her -[3040.68 --> 3041.32] Healing and -[3041.32 --> 3041.94] Be with her -[3041.94 --> 3042.38] As she -[3042.38 --> 3042.88] Recovers -[3042.88 --> 3044.64] And continues -[3044.64 --> 3046.62] To recover -[3046.62 --> 3047.62] We pray for -[3047.62 --> 3048.18] Your blessing -[3048.18 --> 3048.90] On her -[3048.90 --> 3049.56] And for -[3049.56 --> 3050.82] Her family -[3050.82 --> 3051.40] And everything -[3051.40 --> 3052.66] That she is -[3052.66 --> 3053.76] In the midst -[3053.76 --> 3055.10] Of grant her -[3055.10 --> 3056.22] Your peace -[3056.22 --> 3056.86] We pray -[3056.86 --> 3057.62] Lord Jesus -[3057.62 --> 3059.66] And God for -[3059.66 --> 3060.50] Those others -[3060.50 --> 3061.16] Who are -[3061.16 --> 3062.62] In the journey -[3062.62 --> 3063.44] Of receiving -[3063.44 --> 3064.28] Health care -[3064.28 --> 3064.84] Who are in -[3064.84 --> 3065.26] The journey -[3065.26 --> 3066.48] Of testing -[3066.48 --> 3067.60] And having -[3067.60 --> 3068.30] Treatments -[3068.30 --> 3069.36] For those -[3069.36 --> 3069.66] Whom we -[3069.66 --> 3070.14] Know and -[3070.14 --> 3070.62] Those whom -[3070.62 --> 3071.08] We don't -[3071.08 --> 3071.50] We pray -[3071.50 --> 3072.00] Lord God -[3072.00 --> 3072.38] That you -[3072.38 --> 3072.78] Would be -[3072.78 --> 3073.38] At work -[3073.38 --> 3074.56] In power -[3074.56 --> 3076.74] Sometimes -[3076.74 --> 3077.66] Lord the -[3077.66 --> 3079.08] Wait for -[3079.08 --> 3079.82] Tests -[3079.82 --> 3080.34] Or the -[3080.34 --> 3080.88] Wait for -[3080.88 --> 3081.36] Answers -[3081.36 --> 3082.60] Is long -[3082.60 --> 3083.18] And the -[3083.18 --> 3083.82] Anxiety -[3083.82 --> 3084.34] That comes -[3084.34 --> 3084.76] With that -[3084.76 --> 3085.24] Can be -[3085.24 --> 3085.94] Deep -[3085.94 --> 3086.50] And so -[3086.50 --> 3087.26] We pray -[3087.26 --> 3088.00] For a -[3088.00 --> 3088.62] Measure of -[3088.62 --> 3089.36] Your peace -[3089.36 --> 3090.08] In the -[3090.08 --> 3090.34] Midst -[3090.34 --> 3090.54] Of it -[3090.54 --> 3090.78] All -[3090.78 --> 3094.78] Lord our -[3094.78 --> 3095.20] God as -[3095.20 --> 3096.58] We prepare -[3096.58 --> 3097.14] Our hearts -[3097.14 --> 3097.70] And minds -[3097.70 --> 3098.14] To come -[3098.14 --> 3098.60] To your -[3098.60 --> 3099.02] Table -[3099.02 --> 3099.58] In worship -[3099.58 --> 3100.32] Next week -[3100.32 --> 3100.88] We ask -[3100.88 --> 3101.22] That you -[3101.22 --> 3101.40] Would -[3101.40 --> 3102.88] Open our -[3102.88 --> 3103.64] Eyes -[3103.64 --> 3104.88] Open our -[3104.88 --> 3105.32] Hearts -[3105.32 --> 3106.92] Stir in -[3106.92 --> 3107.24] Our -[3107.24 --> 3108.26] Imaginations -[3108.26 --> 3109.92] How you -[3109.92 --> 3110.64] Are reaching -[3110.64 --> 3111.24] Out to -[3111.24 --> 3111.62] Us -[3111.62 --> 3112.80] And to -[3112.80 --> 3113.16] Us -[3113.16 --> 3113.84] Through the -[3113.84 --> 3114.76] Juice -[3114.76 --> 3115.62] And the -[3115.62 --> 3115.98] Bread -[3115.98 --> 3117.06] To receive -[3117.06 --> 3118.24] Your grace -[3118.24 --> 3119.66] As we -[3119.66 --> 3120.30] Anticipate -[3120.30 --> 3121.04] Coming together -[3121.04 --> 3121.46] At that -[3121.46 --> 3121.82] Table -[3121.82 --> 3122.76] We pray -[3122.76 --> 3123.14] For -[3123.14 --> 3123.88] Brothers -[3123.88 --> 3124.72] And sisters -[3124.72 --> 3126.18] We pray -[3126.18 --> 3127.20] For family -[3127.20 --> 3127.66] Members -[3127.66 --> 3128.16] We pray -[3128.16 --> 3128.76] For those -[3128.76 --> 3129.92] With whom -[3129.92 --> 3130.48] We need -[3130.48 --> 3131.42] Reconciliation -[3131.42 --> 3132.24] For those -[3132.24 --> 3133.42] Whom we -[3133.42 --> 3134.26] Are calling -[3134.26 --> 3135.04] To a -[3135.04 --> 3135.34] Greater -[3135.34 --> 3136.08] Experience -[3136.08 --> 3136.60] Of faith -[3136.60 --> 3137.70] We pray -[3137.70 --> 3138.24] Lord God -[3138.24 --> 3138.76] That as we -[3138.76 --> 3139.20] Come to -[3139.20 --> 3139.64] The table -[3139.64 --> 3140.22] We would -[3140.22 --> 3140.80] Indeed -[3140.80 --> 3141.86] Receive -[3141.86 --> 3143.12] The truth -[3143.12 --> 3144.68] Of who -[3144.68 --> 3145.14] You are -[3145.14 --> 3146.24] And that -[3146.24 --> 3146.52] We would -[3146.52 --> 3146.86] Indeed -[3146.86 --> 3147.54] Take you -[3147.54 --> 3148.24] In Lord -[3148.24 --> 3148.72] Jesus -[3148.72 --> 3150.00] To confirm -[3150.00 --> 3151.96] Our faith -[3151.96 --> 3152.94] Shared -[3152.94 --> 3153.42] Together -[3153.42 --> 3156.54] God as we -[3156.54 --> 3157.00] Come to -[3157.00 --> 3157.48] The table -[3157.48 --> 3157.96] It is -[3157.96 --> 3159.20] Easy to -[3159.20 --> 3159.84] See and -[3159.84 --> 3160.40] To remember -[3160.40 --> 3161.12] Who is -[3161.12 --> 3161.72] Not there -[3161.72 --> 3163.12] And so we -[3163.12 --> 3163.54] Pray for -[3163.54 --> 3164.06] Those who -[3164.06 --> 3164.58] Are mourning -[3164.58 --> 3165.44] We pray -[3165.44 --> 3166.00] For those -[3166.00 --> 3167.20] Who are -[3167.20 --> 3168.10] Thinking about -[3168.10 --> 3168.68] Loved ones -[3168.68 --> 3168.98] Who have -[3168.98 --> 3169.56] Died in -[3169.56 --> 3170.06] The past -[3170.06 --> 3171.18] Year or -[3171.18 --> 3172.46] In the past -[3172.46 --> 3173.20] 10 years -[3173.20 --> 3174.08] Or 20 -[3174.08 --> 3174.46] Years -[3174.46 --> 3175.64] That whole -[3175.64 --> 3176.46] Lord God -[3176.46 --> 3177.24] Remains -[3177.24 --> 3177.62] And their -[3177.62 --> 3178.20] Absence -[3178.20 --> 3179.10] Is always -[3179.10 --> 3179.92] Felt -[3179.92 --> 3180.66] Even if -[3180.66 --> 3181.70] That experience -[3181.70 --> 3182.52] Changes -[3182.52 --> 3183.58] Over time -[3183.58 --> 3184.12] We know -[3184.12 --> 3185.66] That nothing -[3185.66 --> 3186.58] Is the same -[3186.58 --> 3187.76] Without our -[3187.76 --> 3188.36] Loved ones -[3188.36 --> 3189.20] And so we -[3189.20 --> 3189.80] Pray for -[3189.80 --> 3190.78] Those of us -[3190.78 --> 3192.08] Walking in -[3192.08 --> 3192.66] Grief -[3192.66 --> 3193.34] For those of -[3193.34 --> 3193.66] Us who -[3193.66 --> 3194.54] Have been -[3194.54 --> 3195.34] Standing in -[3195.34 --> 3195.80] The valley -[3195.80 --> 3196.46] Of the shadow -[3196.46 --> 3197.38] Of death -[3197.38 --> 3197.80] For what -[3197.80 --> 3198.36] Seems like -[3198.36 --> 3199.18] So long -[3199.18 --> 3199.80] We pray -[3199.80 --> 3200.34] That you -[3200.34 --> 3200.94] Would draw -[3200.94 --> 3201.52] Near to -[3201.52 --> 3201.92] Us -[3201.92 --> 3203.04] To comfort -[3203.04 --> 3203.48] Us -[3203.48 --> 3204.04] And to -[3204.04 --> 3205.36] Keep us -[3205.36 --> 3206.16] In your -[3206.16 --> 3206.60] Presence -[3206.60 --> 3208.76] God there -[3208.76 --> 3209.08] Are other -[3209.08 --> 3209.70] Reasons that -[3209.70 --> 3210.20] People may -[3210.20 --> 3210.62] Not be -[3210.62 --> 3211.30] Around a -[3211.30 --> 3211.64] Shared -[3211.64 --> 3212.10] Table -[3212.10 --> 3212.60] We think -[3212.60 --> 3212.92] Of our -[3212.92 --> 3213.92] Family -[3213.92 --> 3214.22] Our -[3214.22 --> 3214.66] Friends -[3214.66 --> 3215.02] Our -[3215.02 --> 3215.40] Brothers -[3215.40 --> 3216.00] And sisters -[3216.00 --> 3216.72] Our -[3216.72 --> 3217.18] Kids -[3217.18 --> 3217.66] Who have -[3217.66 --> 3218.50] Well they -[3218.50 --> 3218.94] Grew up -[3218.94 --> 3219.34] In the -[3219.34 --> 3219.64] Faith -[3219.64 --> 3219.94] And as -[3219.94 --> 3220.30] Part of -[3220.30 --> 3220.82] A church -[3220.82 --> 3221.24] Community -[3221.24 --> 3221.50] Maybe -[3221.50 --> 3221.72] Even -[3221.72 --> 3221.98] This -[3221.98 --> 3222.30] Church -[3222.30 --> 3222.74] Community -[3222.74 --> 3223.54] For one -[3223.54 --> 3224.16] Reason or -[3224.16 --> 3224.48] Another -[3224.48 --> 3225.22] They no -[3225.22 --> 3225.58] Longer -[3225.58 --> 3226.06] Believe -[3226.06 --> 3227.90] We pray -[3227.90 --> 3228.34] Lord God -[3228.34 --> 3228.66] That you -[3228.66 --> 3229.44] Would burden -[3229.44 --> 3231.26] Our hearts -[3231.26 --> 3231.78] As a church -[3231.78 --> 3232.20] Family -[3232.20 --> 3232.84] To pray -[3232.84 --> 3233.54] For those -[3233.54 --> 3233.90] Who have -[3233.90 --> 3234.82] Wandered -[3234.82 --> 3235.54] Or rejected -[3235.54 --> 3236.86] And we -[3236.86 --> 3237.22] Pray -[3237.22 --> 3237.74] Lord God -[3237.74 --> 3238.00] That you -[3238.00 --> 3238.92] Would soften -[3238.92 --> 3240.16] Their hearts -[3240.16 --> 3241.62] Open -[3241.62 --> 3243.14] The eyes -[3243.14 --> 3243.50] Of their -[3243.50 --> 3243.90] Hearts -[3243.90 --> 3244.22] To the -[3244.22 --> 3244.54] Truth -[3244.54 --> 3244.94] Of your -[3244.94 --> 3245.36] Gospel -[3245.36 --> 3245.76] To the -[3245.76 --> 3246.26] Majesty -[3246.26 --> 3246.96] Of your -[3246.96 --> 3247.28] Grace -[3247.28 --> 3247.80] Lord Jesus -[3247.80 --> 3248.66] And may -[3248.66 --> 3249.64] They experience -[3249.64 --> 3250.26] As we -[3250.26 --> 3250.64] Have said -[3250.64 --> 3250.96] Earlier -[3250.96 --> 3251.26] Your -[3251.26 --> 3252.10] Compelling -[3252.10 --> 3253.00] Beauty -[3253.00 --> 3253.96] Captivate -[3253.96 --> 3254.38] Us -[3254.38 --> 3255.50] And captivate -[3255.50 --> 3256.62] Our loved -[3256.62 --> 3257.18] Ones -[3257.18 --> 3257.98] Once again -[3257.98 --> 3258.92] Lord God -[3258.92 --> 3265.72] Holy -[3265.72 --> 3266.08] Father -[3266.08 --> 3266.72] As we -[3266.72 --> 3267.96] Worship -[3267.96 --> 3268.42] You -[3268.42 --> 3269.46] This morning -[3269.46 --> 3271.76] We need -[3271.76 --> 3272.02] To hear -[3272.02 --> 3272.58] From you -[3272.58 --> 3274.04] As we -[3274.04 --> 3274.38] Begin -[3274.38 --> 3275.22] This new -[3275.22 --> 3275.62] Year -[3275.62 --> 3276.18] Together -[3276.18 --> 3276.68] We need -[3276.68 --> 3276.92] To -[3276.92 --> 3278.40] Dedicate -[3278.40 --> 3278.78] Both -[3278.78 --> 3279.36] Ourselves -[3279.36 --> 3279.88] To you -[3279.88 --> 3280.62] And to -[3280.62 --> 3281.56] Seeing -[3281.56 --> 3282.30] Ourselves -[3282.30 --> 3282.90] As you -[3282.90 --> 3283.18] See -[3283.18 --> 3283.54] Us -[3283.54 --> 3284.00] And so -[3284.00 --> 3284.34] Open -[3284.34 --> 3284.60] Our -[3284.60 --> 3284.88] Eyes -[3284.88 --> 3285.14] Now -[3285.14 --> 3285.46] To the -[3285.46 --> 3285.84] Truth -[3285.84 --> 3286.24] Of your -[3286.24 --> 3286.56] Word -[3286.56 --> 3288.12] That in -[3288.12 --> 3288.80] This -[3288.80 --> 3289.80] Message -[3289.80 --> 3290.62] As we -[3290.62 --> 3291.20] Look at -[3291.20 --> 3291.86] Psalm 8 -[3291.86 --> 3292.32] We would -[3292.32 --> 3293.08] Hear your -[3293.08 --> 3293.62] Words -[3293.62 --> 3294.18] Spoken -[3294.18 --> 3294.90] Directly -[3294.90 --> 3295.76] To our -[3295.76 --> 3296.12] Hearts -[3296.12 --> 3296.38] And that -[3296.38 --> 3296.60] We would -[3296.60 --> 3297.10] Go from -[3297.10 --> 3297.32] This -[3297.32 --> 3297.80] Place -[3297.80 --> 3299.00] Encouraged -[3299.00 --> 3300.10] And restored -[3300.10 --> 3300.20] Lord -[3300.20 --> 3301.94] We pray -[3301.94 --> 3302.14] This -[3302.14 --> 3302.34] Lord -[3302.34 --> 3302.60] Jesus -[3302.60 --> 3303.14] In your -[3303.14 --> 3304.14] Magnificent -[3304.14 --> 3304.44] Name -[3304.44 --> 3305.84] Amen -[3305.84 --> 3314.64] Children's -[3314.64 --> 3314.86] Worship -[3314.86 --> 3315.22] Time -[3315.22 --> 3315.58] In the -[3315.58 --> 3315.84] Large -[3315.84 --> 3316.12] Group -[3316.12 --> 3316.38] Room -[3316.38 --> 3316.82] Parents -[3316.82 --> 3317.06] Pick -[3317.06 --> 3317.22] Them -[3317.22 --> 3317.36] Up -[3317.36 --> 3317.52] There -[3317.52 --> 3317.82] After -[3317.82 --> 3317.98] The -[3317.98 --> 3318.38] Service -[3318.38 --> 3321.92] Kevin's -[3321.92 --> 3322.18] Trying to -[3322.18 --> 3322.30] Earn -[3322.30 --> 3322.46] His -[3322.46 --> 3322.92] Paycheck -[3322.92 --> 3327.30] So kids -[3327.30 --> 3328.50] There you -[3328.50 --> 3328.80] Go -[3328.80 --> 3330.32] Follow -[3330.32 --> 3330.54] The -[3330.54 --> 3330.78] Pied -[3330.78 --> 3331.16] Piper -[3331.16 --> 3332.82] To the -[3332.82 --> 3332.98] Room -[3332.98 --> 3333.18] At the -[3333.18 --> 3333.44] Back -[3333.44 --> 3355.66] We are -[3355.66 --> 3356.50] Going to -[3356.50 --> 3357.38] Spend a -[3357.38 --> 3357.60] Few -[3357.60 --> 3358.58] Moments -[3358.58 --> 3359.06] Together -[3359.06 --> 3360.50] Looking at -[3360.50 --> 3360.94] And then -[3360.94 --> 3361.68] Reflecting -[3361.68 --> 3362.02] On -[3362.02 --> 3362.90] Psalm 8 -[3362.90 --> 3363.84] For the -[3363.84 --> 3364.14] Beginning -[3364.14 --> 3364.62] Of our -[3364.62 --> 3364.94] Year -[3364.94 --> 3367.22] I have -[3367.22 --> 3367.60] Titled -[3367.60 --> 3367.94] This -[3367.94 --> 3368.76] Message -[3368.76 --> 3369.38] Who -[3369.38 --> 3370.04] Am I -[3370.04 --> 3371.68] And if -[3371.68 --> 3372.36] You have -[3372.36 --> 3373.48] An incredible -[3373.48 --> 3374.00] Memory -[3374.00 --> 3375.50] You might -[3375.50 --> 3375.98] Remember -[3375.98 --> 3376.58] That the -[3376.58 --> 3377.22] First Sunday -[3377.22 --> 3379.08] Of 2022 -[3379.08 --> 3380.38] So a -[3380.38 --> 3380.86] Year ago -[3380.86 --> 3382.36] I preached -[3382.36 --> 3382.76] A message -[3382.76 --> 3383.22] Called -[3383.22 --> 3384.00] Who -[3384.00 --> 3384.44] Am I -[3384.44 --> 3385.66] Out of -[3385.66 --> 3386.04] Ephesians -[3386.04 --> 3386.52] I think -[3386.52 --> 3387.10] It's really -[3387.10 --> 3387.60] Important -[3387.60 --> 3388.04] For us -[3388.04 --> 3388.44] As we -[3388.44 --> 3388.60] Are -[3388.60 --> 3389.38] Starting -[3389.38 --> 3389.84] A new -[3389.84 --> 3390.20] Year -[3390.20 --> 3391.68] To -[3391.68 --> 3392.60] Recall -[3392.60 --> 3393.34] To our -[3393.34 --> 3393.62] Hearts -[3393.62 --> 3393.82] And -[3393.82 --> 3394.54] Minds -[3394.54 --> 3395.22] Who -[3395.22 --> 3395.48] We -[3395.48 --> 3395.88] Are -[3395.88 --> 3396.56] In -[3396.56 --> 3397.06] Christ -[3397.06 --> 3397.76] Jesus -[3397.76 --> 3412.42] Yeah -[3412.42 --> 3414.00] All -[3414.00 --> 3414.18] Right -[3414.18 --> 3415.26] This -[3415.26 --> 3415.50] Doesn't -[3415.50 --> 3415.74] Work -[3415.74 --> 3416.44] This -[3416.44 --> 3416.74] Does -[3416.74 --> 3417.80] All -[3417.80 --> 3417.96] Right -[3417.96 --> 3421.20] All -[3421.20 --> 3421.30] Right -[3421.30 --> 3421.52] So -[3421.52 --> 3422.36] Let's -[3422.36 --> 3422.56] Start -[3422.56 --> 3422.86] From the -[3422.86 --> 3423.10] Beginning -[3423.10 --> 3423.38] It's -[3423.38 --> 3423.54] Ten -[3423.54 --> 3423.86] O'clock -[3423.86 --> 3424.16] Now -[3424.16 --> 3426.40] It -[3426.40 --> 3426.78] Is -[3426.78 --> 3426.80] It's -[3426.80 --> 3427.08] I -[3427.08 --> 3427.10] I -[3427.10 --> 3427.36] Think -[3427.36 --> 3427.72] Important -[3427.72 --> 3428.06] For us -[3428.06 --> 3428.26] At the -[3428.26 --> 3428.48] Beginning -[3428.48 --> 3428.68] Of -[3428.68 --> 3428.92] Every -[3428.92 --> 3429.24] Year -[3429.24 --> 3429.54] To -[3429.54 --> 3430.44] Reflect -[3430.44 --> 3430.92] On -[3430.92 --> 3431.14] And -[3431.14 --> 3431.32] To -[3431.32 --> 3431.78] Recall -[3431.78 --> 3432.10] Who -[3432.10 --> 3432.38] We -[3432.38 --> 3432.78] Are -[3432.78 --> 3433.36] In -[3433.36 --> 3433.86] Christ -[3433.86 --> 3434.62] Jesus -[3434.62 --> 3435.12] If -[3435.12 --> 3435.70] Only -[3435.70 --> 3437.12] As a -[3437.12 --> 3437.50] Stretch -[3437.50 --> 3437.98] Goal -[3437.98 --> 3438.52] For us -[3438.52 --> 3438.72] To -[3438.72 --> 3439.14] Remember -[3439.14 --> 3439.58] Throughout -[3439.58 --> 3439.78] The -[3439.78 --> 3439.98] Year -[3439.98 --> 3440.84] Because -[3440.84 --> 3441.00] We -[3441.00 --> 3441.20] So -[3441.20 --> 3441.58] Easily -[3441.58 --> 3442.04] Forget -[3442.04 --> 3442.56] We -[3442.56 --> 3442.64] Are -[3442.64 --> 3442.84] So -[3442.84 --> 3443.18] Easily -[3443.18 --> 3443.86] Overwhelmed -[3443.86 --> 3443.98] We -[3443.98 --> 3444.24] So -[3444.24 --> 3444.66] Easily -[3444.66 --> 3445.54] Inundated -[3445.54 --> 3445.78] With -[3445.78 --> 3446.34] Messages -[3446.34 --> 3446.88] To -[3446.88 --> 3447.04] The -[3447.04 --> 3447.64] Contrary -[3447.64 --> 3448.60] And -[3448.60 --> 3448.78] So -[3448.78 --> 3449.10] Today -[3449.10 --> 3449.40] We -[3449.40 --> 3451.28] Revisit -[3451.28 --> 3451.98] Relay -[3451.98 --> 3452.70] Start -[3452.70 --> 3453.12] Again -[3453.12 --> 3453.48] On -[3453.48 --> 3453.64] The -[3453.64 --> 3453.98] Firm -[3453.98 --> 3454.64] Foundation -[3454.64 --> 3455.52] Of -[3455.52 --> 3455.74] Who -[3455.74 --> 3456.06] God -[3456.06 --> 3456.50] Says -[3456.50 --> 3456.90] We -[3456.90 --> 3457.60] Are -[3457.60 --> 3458.32] To -[3458.32 --> 3458.50] Do -[3458.50 --> 3458.86] That -[3458.86 --> 3459.44] We're -[3459.44 --> 3459.54] Going -[3459.54 --> 3459.64] To -[3459.64 --> 3459.88] Look -[3459.88 --> 3460.20] At -[3460.20 --> 3460.58] Psalm -[3460.58 --> 3461.00] 8 -[3461.00 --> 3461.48] So -[3461.48 --> 3461.58] If -[3461.58 --> 3461.64] You -[3461.64 --> 3461.76] Have -[3461.76 --> 3461.84] A -[3461.84 --> 3462.14] Bible -[3462.14 --> 3462.36] I -[3462.36 --> 3462.72] Encourage -[3462.72 --> 3462.88] You -[3462.88 --> 3463.04] To -[3463.04 --> 3463.32] Open -[3463.32 --> 3463.54] That -[3463.54 --> 3463.76] Up -[3463.76 --> 3464.38] We're -[3464.38 --> 3464.48] Going -[3464.48 --> 3464.56] To -[3464.56 --> 3464.74] Read -[3464.74 --> 3465.02] Psalm -[3465.02 --> 3465.28] 8 -[3465.28 --> 3465.70] Together -[3465.70 --> 3466.64] It -[3466.64 --> 3466.80] Will -[3466.80 --> 3466.92] Be -[3466.92 --> 3467.06] On -[3467.06 --> 3467.18] The -[3467.18 --> 3467.52] Screen -[3467.52 --> 3468.58] Overhead -[3468.58 --> 3469.78] And -[3469.78 --> 3469.88] Then -[3469.88 --> 3470.00] We -[3470.00 --> 3470.12] Will -[3470.12 --> 3470.34] Keep -[3470.34 --> 3470.62] That -[3470.62 --> 3471.06] With -[3471.06 --> 3471.40] Us -[3471.40 --> 3472.04] As -[3472.04 --> 3472.18] We -[3472.18 --> 3472.36] Go -[3472.36 --> 3473.94] So -[3473.94 --> 3474.46] The -[3474.46 --> 3474.64] Word -[3474.64 --> 3474.74] Of -[3474.74 --> 3474.84] The -[3474.84 --> 3475.12] Lord -[3475.12 --> 3475.46] From -[3475.46 --> 3475.76] Psalm -[3475.76 --> 3476.08] 8 -[3476.08 --> 3476.90] Together -[3476.90 --> 3478.88] Lord -[3478.88 --> 3479.72] Our -[3479.72 --> 3480.28] Lord -[3480.28 --> 3481.44] How -[3481.44 --> 3482.26] Majestic -[3482.26 --> 3482.84] Is -[3482.84 --> 3483.10] Your -[3483.10 --> 3483.66] Name -[3483.66 --> 3484.04] In -[3484.04 --> 3484.46] All -[3484.46 --> 3484.90] The -[3484.90 --> 3485.16] Earth -[3485.16 --> 3485.88] You -[3485.88 --> 3486.02] Have -[3486.02 --> 3486.28] Set -[3486.28 --> 3486.50] Your -[3486.50 --> 3486.98] Glory -[3486.98 --> 3487.34] Above -[3487.34 --> 3488.00] The -[3488.00 --> 3488.58] Heavens -[3488.58 --> 3489.22] Through -[3489.22 --> 3489.50] The -[3489.50 --> 3489.90] Praise -[3489.90 --> 3490.10] Of -[3490.10 --> 3490.48] Children -[3490.48 --> 3490.90] And -[3490.90 --> 3491.50] Infants -[3491.50 --> 3491.84] You -[3491.84 --> 3492.24] Have -[3492.24 --> 3493.18] Established -[3493.18 --> 3493.68] A -[3493.68 --> 3494.56] Stronghold -[3494.56 --> 3495.04] Against -[3495.04 --> 3495.36] Your -[3495.36 --> 3495.86] Enemies -[3495.86 --> 3496.10] To -[3496.10 --> 3496.80] Silence -[3496.80 --> 3497.06] The -[3497.06 --> 3497.50] Foe -[3497.50 --> 3498.06] And -[3498.06 --> 3498.18] The -[3498.18 --> 3498.66] Avenger -[3498.66 --> 3499.88] When -[3499.88 --> 3500.04] I -[3500.04 --> 3500.46] Consider -[3500.46 --> 3500.74] Your -[3500.74 --> 3501.22] Heavens -[3501.22 --> 3501.40] The -[3501.40 --> 3501.70] Work -[3501.70 --> 3501.92] Of -[3501.92 --> 3502.06] Your -[3502.06 --> 3502.48] Fingers -[3502.48 --> 3502.72] The -[3502.72 --> 3503.10] Moon -[3503.10 --> 3503.28] And -[3503.28 --> 3503.46] The -[3503.46 --> 3503.88] Stars -[3503.88 --> 3504.44] Which -[3504.44 --> 3504.60] You -[3504.60 --> 3504.78] Have -[3504.78 --> 3505.02] Set -[3505.02 --> 3505.26] In -[3505.26 --> 3505.58] Place -[3505.58 --> 3506.14] What -[3506.14 --> 3506.36] Is -[3506.36 --> 3506.84] Mankind -[3506.84 --> 3507.34] That -[3507.34 --> 3507.58] You -[3507.58 --> 3507.82] Are -[3507.82 --> 3508.44] Mindful -[3508.44 --> 3508.64] Of -[3508.64 --> 3508.90] Them -[3508.90 --> 3509.60] Human -[3509.60 --> 3510.28] Beings -[3510.28 --> 3510.56] That -[3510.56 --> 3510.72] You -[3510.72 --> 3510.98] Care -[3510.98 --> 3511.22] For -[3511.22 --> 3511.42] Them -[3511.42 --> 3512.54] You -[3512.54 --> 3512.68] Have -[3512.68 --> 3512.88] Made -[3512.88 --> 3513.08] Them -[3513.08 --> 3513.22] A -[3513.22 --> 3513.34] Little -[3513.34 --> 3513.70] Lower -[3513.70 --> 3513.94] Than -[3513.94 --> 3514.56] Angels -[3514.56 --> 3515.42] Crown -[3515.42 --> 3515.82] Them -[3515.82 --> 3516.08] With -[3516.08 --> 3516.64] Glory -[3516.64 --> 3517.38] And -[3517.38 --> 3517.72] Honor -[3517.72 --> 3518.50] You -[3518.50 --> 3518.64] Have -[3518.64 --> 3518.84] Made -[3518.84 --> 3519.02] Them -[3519.02 --> 3519.60] Rulers -[3519.60 --> 3519.90] Over -[3519.90 --> 3520.38] The -[3520.38 --> 3520.76] Works -[3520.76 --> 3521.18] Of -[3521.18 --> 3521.48] Your -[3521.48 --> 3521.90] Hands -[3521.90 --> 3522.12] You -[3522.12 --> 3522.26] Have -[3522.26 --> 3522.46] Put -[3522.46 --> 3523.16] Everything -[3523.16 --> 3524.02] Under -[3524.02 --> 3524.30] Their -[3524.30 --> 3524.66] Feet -[3524.66 --> 3525.24] All -[3525.24 --> 3525.82] Flocks -[3525.82 --> 3526.08] And -[3526.08 --> 3526.54] Herds -[3526.54 --> 3526.98] And -[3526.98 --> 3527.42] Animals -[3527.42 --> 3527.66] Of -[3527.66 --> 3527.78] The -[3527.78 --> 3528.04] Wild -[3528.04 --> 3528.34] All -[3528.34 --> 3528.52] The -[3528.52 --> 3528.94] Birds -[3528.94 --> 3529.10] In -[3529.10 --> 3529.24] The -[3529.24 --> 3529.58] Sky -[3529.58 --> 3530.02] The -[3530.02 --> 3530.30] Fish -[3530.30 --> 3530.50] In -[3530.50 --> 3530.64] The -[3530.64 --> 3530.82] Sea -[3530.82 --> 3531.16] All -[3531.16 --> 3531.38] That -[3531.38 --> 3531.70] Swim -[3531.70 --> 3531.86] In -[3531.86 --> 3531.98] The -[3531.98 --> 3532.48] Paths -[3532.48 --> 3532.90] Of -[3532.90 --> 3533.04] The -[3533.04 --> 3533.30] Sea -[3533.30 --> 3534.66] Lord -[3534.66 --> 3535.14] Our -[3535.14 --> 3535.62] Lord -[3535.62 --> 3536.22] How -[3536.22 --> 3536.88] Majestic -[3536.88 --> 3537.34] Is -[3537.34 --> 3537.62] Your -[3537.62 --> 3538.08] Name -[3538.08 --> 3538.68] In -[3538.68 --> 3538.96] All -[3538.96 --> 3539.60] The -[3539.60 --> 3539.92] Earth -[3539.92 --> 3543.52] As -[3543.52 --> 3543.74] We -[3543.74 --> 3544.80] Start -[3544.80 --> 3545.40] This -[3545.40 --> 3546.14] New -[3546.14 --> 3546.66] Year -[3546.66 --> 3548.16] I -[3548.16 --> 3548.36] Want -[3548.36 --> 3548.60] To -[3548.60 --> 3550.04] Suggest -[3550.04 --> 3550.90] Something -[3550.90 --> 3554.86] I'm -[3554.86 --> 3555.00] Not -[3555.00 --> 3555.60] Overstating -[3555.60 --> 3555.74] It -[3555.74 --> 3555.86] To -[3555.86 --> 3556.02] Say -[3556.02 --> 3556.14] I -[3556.14 --> 3556.26] Want -[3556.26 --> 3556.36] To -[3556.36 --> 3556.72] Suggest -[3556.72 --> 3557.12] Something -[3557.12 --> 3558.10] Profound -[3558.10 --> 3559.02] To -[3559.02 --> 3559.24] You -[3559.24 --> 3561.20] And -[3561.20 --> 3561.48] It's -[3561.48 --> 3561.82] Actually -[3561.82 --> 3562.22] So -[3562.22 --> 3562.98] Profound -[3562.98 --> 3563.60] That -[3563.60 --> 3563.72] It -[3563.72 --> 3564.24] Appears -[3564.24 --> 3565.16] Simple -[3565.16 --> 3566.80] And -[3566.80 --> 3566.92] We -[3566.92 --> 3567.10] So -[3567.10 --> 3567.38] Easily -[3567.38 --> 3567.80] Dismiss -[3567.80 --> 3568.02] It -[3568.02 --> 3569.22] And -[3569.22 --> 3569.62] Yet -[3569.62 --> 3570.02] As -[3570.02 --> 3570.28] We -[3570.28 --> 3570.94] Plumb -[3570.94 --> 3571.22] The -[3571.22 --> 3571.64] Depths -[3571.64 --> 3572.00] Of -[3572.00 --> 3572.42] This -[3572.42 --> 3573.30] Truth -[3573.30 --> 3574.12] We -[3574.12 --> 3574.86] Find -[3574.86 --> 3576.20] Immeasurable -[3576.20 --> 3577.12] Meaning -[3577.12 --> 3577.80] And -[3577.80 --> 3579.72] Incomprehensible -[3579.72 --> 3581.36] Ultimately -[3581.36 --> 3581.80] An -[3581.80 --> 3582.70] Incomprehensible -[3582.70 --> 3583.96] Reality -[3583.96 --> 3585.68] And -[3585.68 --> 3585.80] That -[3585.80 --> 3585.98] Is -[3585.98 --> 3586.14] That -[3586.14 --> 3586.28] There -[3586.28 --> 3586.46] Are -[3586.46 --> 3587.52] Two -[3587.52 --> 3588.52] Fundamental -[3588.52 --> 3589.30] Questions -[3589.30 --> 3590.08] That -[3590.08 --> 3590.24] Will -[3590.24 --> 3590.98] Define -[3590.98 --> 3591.40] Your -[3591.40 --> 3592.36] Experience -[3592.36 --> 3592.66] Of -[3592.66 --> 3593.10] Life -[3593.10 --> 3593.82] In -[3593.82 --> 3593.94] The -[3593.94 --> 3594.18] World -[3594.18 --> 3595.74] And -[3595.74 --> 3595.80] I -[3595.80 --> 3595.90] Want -[3595.90 --> 3595.98] To -[3595.98 --> 3596.30] Suggest -[3596.30 --> 3596.52] That -[3596.52 --> 3597.82] Each -[3597.82 --> 3598.10] One -[3598.10 --> 3598.28] Of -[3598.28 --> 3598.52] You -[3598.52 --> 3598.92] Here -[3598.92 --> 3599.24] This -[3599.24 --> 3599.60] Morning -[3599.60 --> 3600.58] Every -[3600.58 --> 3601.08] Person -[3601.08 --> 3601.48] Who -[3601.48 --> 3601.64] Has -[3601.64 --> 3601.84] Ever -[3601.84 --> 3602.38] Lived -[3602.38 --> 3602.64] In -[3602.64 --> 3602.82] The -[3602.82 --> 3603.18] World -[3603.18 --> 3603.80] Has -[3603.80 --> 3603.96] An -[3603.96 --> 3604.32] Answer -[3604.32 --> 3604.58] To -[3604.58 --> 3604.98] These -[3604.98 --> 3605.44] Two -[3605.44 --> 3606.22] Questions -[3606.22 --> 3606.90] That -[3606.90 --> 3607.94] Fundamentally -[3607.94 --> 3609.04] Defines -[3609.04 --> 3609.42] And -[3609.42 --> 3610.52] Delimits -[3610.52 --> 3610.86] And -[3610.86 --> 3611.90] Determines -[3611.90 --> 3612.58] A -[3612.58 --> 3612.90] Life -[3612.90 --> 3614.48] How -[3614.48 --> 3614.78] You -[3614.78 --> 3615.74] Answer -[3615.74 --> 3616.24] These -[3616.24 --> 3616.54] Two -[3616.54 --> 3617.00] Questions -[3617.00 --> 3617.38] Will -[3617.38 --> 3617.70] Set -[3617.70 --> 3618.24] Everything -[3618.24 --> 3618.64] In -[3618.64 --> 3619.04] Motion -[3619.04 --> 3619.64] For -[3619.64 --> 3619.80] The -[3619.80 --> 3620.06] Rest -[3620.06 --> 3620.26] Of -[3620.26 --> 3620.42] What -[3620.42 --> 3620.62] You -[3620.62 --> 3621.28] Do -[3621.28 --> 3622.76] And -[3622.76 --> 3623.14] How -[3623.14 --> 3623.46] You -[3623.46 --> 3624.34] Answer -[3624.34 --> 3624.84] These -[3624.84 --> 3625.78] Questions -[3625.78 --> 3627.56] Reveals -[3627.56 --> 3628.76] What -[3628.76 --> 3629.04] Has -[3629.04 --> 3629.22] Been -[3629.22 --> 3629.54] Set -[3629.54 --> 3629.74] In -[3629.74 --> 3630.10] Motion -[3630.10 --> 3630.94] For -[3630.94 --> 3631.20] You -[3631.20 --> 3632.96] And -[3632.96 --> 3633.06] These -[3633.06 --> 3633.16] Are -[3633.16 --> 3633.34] Two -[3633.34 --> 3633.78] Questions -[3633.78 --> 3634.12] That -[3634.12 --> 3634.24] We -[3634.24 --> 3634.42] All -[3634.42 --> 3635.24] Live -[3635.24 --> 3635.54] Out -[3635.54 --> 3635.66] Of -[3635.66 --> 3635.82] An -[3635.82 --> 3636.26] Answer -[3636.26 --> 3636.66] To -[3636.66 --> 3636.94] That -[3636.94 --> 3637.78] Define -[3637.78 --> 3639.12] Reality -[3639.12 --> 3639.78] And -[3639.78 --> 3640.58] Our -[3640.58 --> 3641.64] Experience -[3641.64 --> 3642.20] Set -[3642.20 --> 3642.46] Or -[3642.46 --> 3642.66] Our -[3642.66 --> 3643.16] Frame -[3643.16 --> 3643.56] Set -[3643.56 --> 3643.96] Depending -[3643.96 --> 3644.14] On -[3644.14 --> 3644.28] What -[3644.28 --> 3644.80] Language -[3644.80 --> 3645.00] You -[3645.00 --> 3645.14] Want -[3645.14 --> 3645.22] To -[3645.22 --> 3645.48] Use -[3645.48 --> 3647.90] So -[3647.90 --> 3647.96] I -[3647.96 --> 3648.06] Want -[3648.06 --> 3648.12] To -[3648.12 --> 3648.46] Suggest -[3648.46 --> 3648.62] To -[3648.62 --> 3648.86] You -[3648.86 --> 3649.96] This -[3649.96 --> 3650.32] Morning -[3650.32 --> 3651.22] That -[3651.22 --> 3651.46] In -[3651.46 --> 3652.76] Addressing -[3652.76 --> 3653.14] And -[3653.14 --> 3653.64] Answering -[3653.64 --> 3653.96] These -[3653.96 --> 3654.22] Two -[3654.22 --> 3654.82] Questions -[3654.82 --> 3655.22] The -[3655.22 --> 3655.46] Very -[3655.46 --> 3656.54] Meaning -[3656.54 --> 3657.04] Or -[3657.04 --> 3657.76] Ideas -[3657.76 --> 3657.96] Of -[3657.96 --> 3658.12] The -[3658.12 --> 3658.40] Meaning -[3658.40 --> 3658.66] Of -[3658.66 --> 3659.00] Life -[3659.00 --> 3659.26] Are -[3659.26 --> 3659.66] Found -[3659.66 --> 3661.24] Depending -[3661.24 --> 3661.42] On -[3661.42 --> 3661.54] How -[3661.54 --> 3661.68] You -[3661.68 --> 3662.02] Answer -[3662.02 --> 3662.36] Depending -[3662.36 --> 3662.54] On -[3662.54 --> 3662.68] How -[3662.68 --> 3662.86] You -[3662.86 --> 3663.36] Ask -[3663.36 --> 3664.06] You're -[3664.06 --> 3664.52] Revealing -[3664.52 --> 3664.90] Something -[3664.90 --> 3665.16] About -[3665.16 --> 3665.62] Yourself -[3665.62 --> 3666.18] About -[3666.18 --> 3666.30] What -[3666.30 --> 3666.40] You -[3666.40 --> 3666.74] Believe -[3666.74 --> 3667.12] About -[3667.12 --> 3667.30] What -[3667.30 --> 3667.46] You -[3667.46 --> 3668.14] Don't -[3668.14 --> 3668.48] Believe -[3668.48 --> 3668.64] Or -[3668.64 --> 3668.78] What -[3668.78 --> 3668.90] You -[3668.90 --> 3669.32] Can't -[3669.32 --> 3669.66] Believe -[3669.66 --> 3670.10] And -[3670.10 --> 3670.26] Then -[3670.26 --> 3670.42] In -[3670.42 --> 3670.76] Turn -[3670.76 --> 3671.48] How -[3671.48 --> 3671.64] You -[3671.64 --> 3671.78] Will -[3671.78 --> 3672.00] Live -[3672.00 --> 3673.74] Those -[3673.74 --> 3673.94] Two -[3673.94 --> 3674.46] Questions -[3674.46 --> 3674.94] Really -[3674.94 --> 3676.08] Simply -[3676.08 --> 3676.48] And -[3676.48 --> 3676.70] Yet -[3676.70 --> 3677.60] Profound -[3677.60 --> 3677.84] In -[3677.84 --> 3678.02] Its -[3678.02 --> 3678.68] Simpleness -[3678.68 --> 3679.70] Are -[3679.70 --> 3680.62] Who -[3680.62 --> 3681.00] Is -[3681.00 --> 3681.48] God -[3681.48 --> 3683.14] And -[3683.14 --> 3683.42] Two -[3683.42 --> 3684.62] Who -[3684.62 --> 3684.80] Am -[3684.80 --> 3685.06] I -[3685.06 --> 3686.80] Who -[3686.80 --> 3687.02] Is -[3687.02 --> 3687.50] God -[3687.50 --> 3688.26] And -[3688.26 --> 3688.40] Who -[3688.40 --> 3688.56] Am -[3688.56 --> 3688.78] I -[3688.78 --> 3689.82] Every -[3689.82 --> 3690.32] Single -[3690.32 --> 3690.86] Person -[3690.86 --> 3691.70] In -[3691.70 --> 3692.00] This -[3692.00 --> 3692.52] World -[3692.52 --> 3693.22] Throughout -[3693.22 --> 3693.62] All -[3693.62 --> 3693.94] Of -[3693.94 --> 3694.50] History -[3694.50 --> 3694.94] Has -[3694.94 --> 3695.32] Lived -[3695.32 --> 3695.58] Out -[3695.58 --> 3695.70] Of -[3695.70 --> 3695.82] An -[3695.82 --> 3696.14] Answer -[3696.14 --> 3696.42] To -[3696.42 --> 3696.84] These -[3696.84 --> 3697.66] Questions -[3697.66 --> 3698.60] Nobody -[3698.60 --> 3699.50] Goes -[3699.50 --> 3699.74] Through -[3699.74 --> 3700.12] Life -[3700.12 --> 3700.42] Without -[3700.42 --> 3701.22] Engaging -[3701.22 --> 3701.52] Them -[3701.52 --> 3701.74] In -[3701.74 --> 3702.04] Some -[3702.04 --> 3702.32] Way -[3702.32 --> 3703.20] Nobody -[3703.20 --> 3703.54] Gets -[3703.54 --> 3703.72] Out -[3703.72 --> 3703.84] Of -[3703.84 --> 3704.04] Bed -[3704.04 --> 3704.18] In -[3704.18 --> 3704.28] The -[3704.28 --> 3704.54] Morning -[3704.54 --> 3704.74] Or -[3704.74 --> 3704.92] Goes -[3734.74 --> 3735.64] Everyone -[3735.64 --> 3736.00] Lives -[3736.00 --> 3736.28] Out -[3736.28 --> 3736.72] Of -[3736.72 --> 3737.42] An -[3737.42 --> 3737.74] Assumed -[3737.74 --> 3738.18] Answer -[3738.18 --> 3738.84] To -[3738.84 --> 3739.08] Them -[3739.08 --> 3740.34] And -[3740.34 --> 3740.52] What's -[3740.52 --> 3740.80] More -[3740.80 --> 3741.14] How -[3741.14 --> 3741.36] You -[3741.36 --> 3741.70] Answer -[3741.70 --> 3741.88] The -[3741.88 --> 3742.20] First -[3742.20 --> 3742.68] Question -[3742.68 --> 3743.00] Who -[3743.00 --> 3743.24] Is -[3743.24 --> 3743.62] God -[3743.62 --> 3744.16] Will -[3744.16 --> 3744.48] Set -[3744.48 --> 3744.72] The -[3744.72 --> 3745.38] Stage -[3745.38 --> 3746.92] For -[3746.92 --> 3747.08] How -[3747.08 --> 3747.28] You -[3747.28 --> 3747.60] Answer -[3747.60 --> 3747.80] The -[3747.80 --> 3748.10] Second -[3748.10 --> 3749.96] So -[3749.96 --> 3749.98] So -[3749.98 --> 3750.00] So -[3750.00 --> 3750.02] So -[3750.02 --> 3751.00] So -[3751.00 --> 3751.74] So -[3751.74 --> 3752.86] So -[3752.86 --> 3753.74] So -[3753.74 --> 3754.04] So -[3754.04 --> 3754.94] So -[3754.94 --> 3755.52] If -[3755.52 --> 3755.72] So -[3755.72 --> 3755.80] So -[3755.80 --> 3756.04] If -[3756.04 --> 3756.66] You -[3756.66 --> 3756.72] Believe -[3756.72 --> 3756.92] That -[3756.92 --> 3757.04] The -[3757.04 --> 3757.34] Answer -[3757.34 --> 3757.54] To -[3757.54 --> 3757.72] The -[3757.72 --> 3758.04] First -[3758.04 --> 3758.62] Question -[3758.62 --> 3759.48] Begins -[3759.48 --> 3760.10] By -[3760.10 --> 3761.26] Asking -[3761.26 --> 3761.54] Not -[3761.54 --> 3761.68] The -[3761.68 --> 3762.04] Question -[3762.04 --> 3762.32] Who -[3762.32 --> 3762.58] Is -[3762.58 --> 3763.04] God -[3763.04 --> 3763.34] But -[3763.34 --> 3763.62] Who -[3763.62 --> 3763.94] Are -[3763.94 --> 3764.24] The -[3764.24 --> 3764.78] Gods -[3764.78 --> 3765.52] Plural -[3765.52 --> 3766.38] Right -[3766.38 --> 3766.64] So -[3766.64 --> 3767.02] That -[3767.02 --> 3767.32] Is -[3767.32 --> 3768.16] Revealing -[3768.16 --> 3768.46] A -[3768.46 --> 3768.82] Belief -[3768.82 --> 3769.02] In -[3769.02 --> 3769.16] A -[3769.16 --> 3769.68] Pantheon -[3769.68 --> 3769.82] Of -[3769.82 --> 3770.18] Gods -[3770.18 --> 3770.48] Like -[3770.48 --> 3770.68] In -[3770.68 --> 3771.38] Hinduism -[3771.38 --> 3771.60] For -[3771.60 --> 3771.96] Instance -[3771.96 --> 3772.18] Or -[3772.18 --> 3772.66] The -[3772.66 --> 3772.98] Ancient -[3772.98 --> 3773.36] Greco -[3773.36 --> 3773.68] Roman -[3773.68 --> 3774.20] Systems -[3774.20 --> 3775.44] And -[3775.44 --> 3775.84] If -[3775.84 --> 3776.14] Like -[3776.14 --> 3776.34] In -[3776.34 --> 3776.46] The -[3776.46 --> 3776.74] Ancient -[3776.74 --> 3777.10] Greco -[3777.10 --> 3777.38] Roman -[3777.38 --> 3777.80] Systems -[3777.80 --> 3778.10] You -[3778.10 --> 3778.42] Believe -[3778.42 --> 3778.60] That -[3778.60 --> 3778.72] The -[3778.72 --> 3779.04] Gods -[3779.04 --> 3779.22] Are -[3779.22 --> 3779.78] Constantly -[3779.78 --> 3780.60] Infighting -[3780.60 --> 3780.76] Or -[3780.76 --> 3780.98] They're -[3780.98 --> 3781.46] Petally -[3781.46 --> 3782.10] Battling -[3782.10 --> 3782.50] Against -[3782.50 --> 3782.72] One -[3782.72 --> 3782.94] Another -[3782.94 --> 3783.26] You -[3783.26 --> 3783.54] Are -[3783.54 --> 3784.02] Likely -[3784.02 --> 3784.22] To -[3784.22 --> 3784.56] Believe -[3784.56 --> 3784.92] That -[3784.92 --> 3785.18] This -[3785.18 --> 3785.54] Life -[3785.54 --> 3785.76] Is -[3785.76 --> 3786.02] About -[3786.02 --> 3787.12] Escaping -[3787.12 --> 3787.36] The -[3787.36 --> 3788.20] Realities -[3788.20 --> 3788.72] Of -[3788.72 --> 3788.86] The -[3788.86 --> 3789.22] Physical -[3789.22 --> 3789.64] Plane -[3789.64 --> 3789.90] About -[3789.90 --> 3790.46] Being -[3790.46 --> 3791.30] Unbound -[3791.30 --> 3791.68] To -[3791.68 --> 3791.86] The -[3791.86 --> 3792.26] Body -[3792.26 --> 3792.94] Which -[3792.94 --> 3793.22] In -[3793.22 --> 3793.82] Hinduism -[3793.82 --> 3794.00] And -[3794.00 --> 3794.34] Buddhism -[3794.34 --> 3794.56] Is -[3794.56 --> 3794.98] Considered -[3794.98 --> 3795.30] Evil -[3795.30 --> 3795.82] And -[3795.82 --> 3795.96] Then -[3795.96 --> 3796.56] Existing -[3796.56 --> 3797.02] Forever -[3797.02 --> 3797.68] In -[3797.68 --> 3798.16] Spirit -[3798.16 --> 3798.58] In -[3798.58 --> 3799.72] Elysium -[3799.72 --> 3799.96] If -[3799.96 --> 3800.18] You're -[3800.18 --> 3800.80] Greek -[3800.80 --> 3801.14] Or -[3801.14 --> 3801.90] Achieving -[3801.90 --> 3802.58] Moksha -[3802.58 --> 3803.08] In -[3803.08 --> 3803.78] Hinduism -[3803.78 --> 3803.98] Or -[3803.98 --> 3804.46] Nirvana -[3804.46 --> 3805.08] In -[3805.08 --> 3805.46] Buddhism -[3805.46 --> 3806.62] Right -[3806.62 --> 3806.78] That's -[3806.78 --> 3806.90] An -[3806.90 --> 3807.20] Answer -[3807.20 --> 3808.22] To -[3808.22 --> 3808.34] The -[3808.34 --> 3808.74] Question -[3808.74 --> 3810.38] Similarly -[3810.38 --> 3810.74] If -[3810.74 --> 3810.88] You -[3810.88 --> 3811.02] Want -[3811.02 --> 3811.10] To -[3811.10 --> 3811.34] Answer -[3811.34 --> 3811.52] The -[3811.52 --> 3811.72] First -[3811.72 --> 3812.14] Question -[3812.14 --> 3812.92] Who -[3812.92 --> 3813.10] Is -[3813.10 --> 3813.32] God -[3813.32 --> 3813.48] By -[3813.48 --> 3813.72] Saying -[3813.72 --> 3813.86] Well -[3813.86 --> 3814.00] There -[3814.00 --> 3814.18] Is -[3814.18 --> 3814.36] No -[3814.36 --> 3814.70] God -[3814.70 --> 3816.12] Right -[3816.12 --> 3816.32] Which -[3816.32 --> 3816.74] Is -[3816.74 --> 3816.96] A -[3816.96 --> 3817.22] Common -[3817.22 --> 3817.60] Answer -[3817.60 --> 3817.86] That -[3817.86 --> 3818.20] Lots -[3818.20 --> 3818.36] Of -[3818.36 --> 3818.70] People -[3818.70 --> 3819.04] Give -[3819.04 --> 3819.62] You -[3819.62 --> 3819.84] Will -[3819.84 --> 3820.16] Also -[3820.16 --> 3820.42] Then -[3820.42 --> 3820.64] Have -[3820.64 --> 3820.82] To -[3820.82 --> 3821.14] Wrestle -[3821.14 --> 3821.52] With -[3821.52 --> 3821.76] Who -[3821.76 --> 3822.04] You -[3822.04 --> 3822.44] Are -[3822.44 --> 3823.46] And -[3823.46 --> 3823.56] What -[3823.56 --> 3823.70] The -[3823.70 --> 3823.94] Point -[3823.94 --> 3824.10] Of -[3824.10 --> 3824.40] Life -[3824.40 --> 3824.74] Is -[3824.74 --> 3826.28] Right -[3826.28 --> 3826.44] Now -[3826.44 --> 3826.62] For -[3826.62 --> 3826.96] Some -[3826.96 --> 3828.02] This -[3828.02 --> 3828.24] Way -[3828.24 --> 3828.36] Of -[3828.36 --> 3828.70] Answering -[3828.70 --> 3828.84] The -[3828.84 --> 3829.10] Question -[3829.10 --> 3829.30] To -[3829.30 --> 3829.44] Say -[3829.44 --> 3829.60] There -[3829.60 --> 3829.78] Is -[3829.78 --> 3829.94] No -[3829.94 --> 3830.22] God -[3830.22 --> 3830.86] Ends -[3830.86 --> 3831.02] Up -[3831.02 --> 3831.20] With -[3831.20 --> 3831.40] This -[3831.40 --> 3834.12] With -[3834.12 --> 3834.34] An -[3834.34 --> 3835.60] Admission -[3835.60 --> 3836.00] If -[3836.00 --> 3836.28] There's -[3836.28 --> 3836.74] Some -[3836.74 --> 3837.12] Honesty -[3837.12 --> 3837.42] There -[3837.42 --> 3837.66] Some -[3837.66 --> 3838.00] Admission -[3838.00 --> 3838.22] That -[3838.22 --> 3838.34] There -[3838.34 --> 3838.56] Is -[3838.56 --> 3839.02] Actually -[3839.02 --> 3839.26] No -[3839.26 --> 3839.84] Purpose -[3839.84 --> 3840.10] To -[3840.10 --> 3840.46] Life -[3840.46 --> 3840.76] Or -[3840.76 --> 3840.96] To -[3840.96 --> 3841.32] Me -[3841.32 --> 3841.82] That -[3841.82 --> 3842.06] Goes -[3842.06 --> 3842.56] Beyond -[3842.56 --> 3842.84] My -[3842.84 --> 3843.26] Immediate -[3843.26 --> 3843.74] Desires -[3843.74 --> 3844.76] There's -[3844.76 --> 3844.96] No -[3844.96 --> 3845.78] Greater -[3845.78 --> 3846.28] Reason -[3846.28 --> 3846.70] Because -[3846.70 --> 3847.10] There's -[3847.10 --> 3847.26] No -[3847.26 --> 3847.58] Greater -[3847.58 --> 3848.06] Being -[3848.06 --> 3848.42] That -[3848.42 --> 3848.60] Has -[3848.60 --> 3848.94] Imbued -[3848.94 --> 3849.18] This -[3849.18 --> 3849.44] World -[3849.44 --> 3849.64] With -[3849.64 --> 3850.10] Direction -[3850.10 --> 3850.34] And -[3850.34 --> 3850.62] Meaning -[3850.62 --> 3850.90] And -[3850.90 --> 3851.44] Purpose -[3851.44 --> 3852.26] Right -[3852.26 --> 3852.38] And -[3852.38 --> 3852.52] So -[3852.52 --> 3852.66] Then -[3852.66 --> 3852.78] We -[3852.78 --> 3853.32] Eat -[3853.32 --> 3853.78] Drink -[3853.78 --> 3853.98] And -[3853.98 --> 3854.14] Be -[3854.14 --> 3854.44] Merry -[3854.44 --> 3854.82] Because -[3854.82 --> 3855.10] Then -[3855.10 --> 3855.26] You -[3855.26 --> 3855.48] Die -[3855.48 --> 3856.90] With -[3856.90 --> 3857.06] No -[3857.06 --> 3857.30] Greater -[3857.30 --> 3857.78] Purpose -[3857.78 --> 3858.00] Or -[3858.00 --> 3858.26] Meaning -[3858.26 --> 3858.48] In -[3858.48 --> 3858.80] Life -[3858.80 --> 3859.06] There's -[3859.06 --> 3859.38] Also -[3859.38 --> 3859.76] No -[3859.76 --> 3860.08] Greater -[3860.08 --> 3860.68] Standard -[3860.68 --> 3861.02] By -[3861.02 --> 3861.26] Which -[3861.26 --> 3861.50] To -[3861.50 --> 3862.78] Set -[3862.78 --> 3863.18] Life -[3863.18 --> 3863.74] Forward -[3863.74 --> 3865.22] And -[3865.22 --> 3865.46] So -[3865.46 --> 3866.02] A -[3866.02 --> 3866.34] Person -[3866.34 --> 3866.50] Who -[3866.50 --> 3866.60] Would -[3866.60 --> 3866.80] Answer -[3866.80 --> 3866.94] A -[3866.94 --> 3867.16] Question -[3867.16 --> 3867.44] This -[3867.44 --> 3867.62] Way -[3867.62 --> 3867.98] Becomes -[3867.98 --> 3868.58] Skeptical -[3868.58 --> 3869.58] About -[3869.58 --> 3870.54] Moral -[3870.54 --> 3871.16] Traditions -[3871.16 --> 3871.40] Or -[3871.40 --> 3871.64] About -[3871.64 --> 3872.56] Ethical -[3872.56 --> 3873.40] Obligations -[3873.40 --> 3874.70] In -[3874.70 --> 3875.34] Philosophical -[3875.34 --> 3875.82] Terms -[3875.82 --> 3876.26] We -[3876.26 --> 3876.46] Call -[3876.46 --> 3876.66] This -[3876.66 --> 3877.32] Nihilism -[3877.32 --> 3878.04] Right -[3878.04 --> 3878.22] This -[3878.22 --> 3878.42] Is -[3878.42 --> 3878.88] Rooted -[3878.88 --> 3879.18] In -[3879.18 --> 3879.42] The -[3879.42 --> 3879.94] Philosophy -[3879.94 --> 3880.20] Of -[3880.20 --> 3880.50] Fred -[3880.50 --> 3880.90] Dici -[3880.90 --> 3882.32] And -[3882.32 --> 3882.62] He -[3882.62 --> 3883.12] Actually -[3883.12 --> 3883.48] Said -[3883.48 --> 3883.70] That -[3883.70 --> 3884.20] If -[3884.20 --> 3884.86] Humanity -[3884.86 --> 3885.08] Was -[3885.08 --> 3885.32] Ever -[3885.32 --> 3885.54] To -[3885.54 --> 3885.84] Move -[3885.84 --> 3886.46] Beyond -[3886.46 --> 3886.86] The -[3886.86 --> 3888.12] Bounds -[3888.12 --> 3888.90] Of -[3888.90 --> 3888.96] The -[3888.96 --> 3889.64] Bonds -[3889.64 --> 3889.96] Of -[3889.96 --> 3890.88] Christianity -[3890.88 --> 3891.38] We -[3891.38 --> 3891.52] Would -[3891.52 --> 3891.66] Have -[3891.66 --> 3891.80] To -[3891.80 --> 3892.30] Go -[3892.30 --> 3892.60] Through -[3892.60 --> 3892.88] This -[3892.88 --> 3893.06] Sort -[3893.06 --> 3893.16] Of -[3893.16 --> 3894.00] Nihilistic -[3894.00 --> 3895.26] Period -[3895.26 --> 3896.70] Now -[3896.70 --> 3897.32] Again -[3897.32 --> 3898.14] Very -[3898.14 --> 3898.34] Few -[3898.34 --> 3898.64] People -[3898.64 --> 3898.92] Are -[3898.92 --> 3899.82] Intellectually -[3899.82 --> 3900.18] Honest -[3900.18 --> 3900.40] Enough -[3900.40 --> 3900.56] To -[3900.56 --> 3900.80] Admit -[3900.80 --> 3900.98] That -[3900.98 --> 3901.32] That's -[3901.32 --> 3901.58] What -[3901.58 --> 3901.74] They -[3901.74 --> 3902.02] See -[3902.02 --> 3902.24] In -[3902.24 --> 3902.50] Life -[3902.50 --> 3902.80] But -[3902.80 --> 3903.28] There -[3903.28 --> 3903.42] Are -[3903.42 --> 3903.78] More -[3903.78 --> 3904.18] Who -[3904.18 --> 3904.36] Will -[3904.36 --> 3904.58] Say -[3904.58 --> 3904.98] Something -[3904.98 --> 3905.48] Like -[3905.48 --> 3906.20] Who -[3906.20 --> 3906.42] I -[3906.42 --> 3906.80] Am -[3906.80 --> 3907.04] And -[3907.04 --> 3907.06] And -[3907.06 --> 3907.72] How -[3907.72 --> 3907.94] I -[3907.94 --> 3908.34] Live -[3908.34 --> 3908.66] Because -[3908.66 --> 3908.86] There -[3908.86 --> 3909.04] Is -[3909.04 --> 3909.20] No -[3909.20 --> 3909.60] God -[3909.60 --> 3910.18] Is -[3910.18 --> 3910.54] Based -[3910.54 --> 3911.02] On -[3911.02 --> 3912.10] Evolutionary -[3912.10 --> 3912.74] Imperatives -[3912.74 --> 3913.98] Right -[3913.98 --> 3914.16] And -[3914.16 --> 3914.36] Here -[3914.36 --> 3914.52] You -[3914.52 --> 3914.66] Can -[3914.66 --> 3914.86] Root -[3914.86 --> 3915.02] That -[3915.02 --> 3915.24] In -[3915.24 --> 3915.84] Game -[3915.84 --> 3916.24] Theory -[3916.24 --> 3916.52] For -[3916.52 --> 3916.70] Those -[3916.70 --> 3916.80] Of -[3916.80 --> 3916.88] You -[3916.88 --> 3917.00] Who -[3917.00 --> 3917.40] Know -[3917.40 --> 3917.68] This -[3917.68 --> 3918.60] That -[3918.60 --> 3918.78] Is -[3918.78 --> 3919.02] Let's -[3919.02 --> 3919.16] Say -[3919.16 --> 3919.36] That -[3919.36 --> 3920.00] Humans -[3920.00 --> 3920.28] Have -[3920.28 --> 3920.88] Learned -[3920.88 --> 3921.30] That -[3921.30 --> 3921.46] We -[3921.46 --> 3921.60] Are -[3921.60 --> 3921.90] More -[3921.90 --> 3922.38] Likely -[3922.38 --> 3922.66] To -[3922.66 --> 3923.38] Survive -[3923.38 --> 3923.88] If -[3923.88 --> 3924.06] We -[3924.06 --> 3924.60] Submit -[3924.60 --> 3924.84] To -[3924.84 --> 3925.24] Certain -[3925.24 --> 3925.84] Patterns -[3925.84 --> 3926.36] Of -[3926.36 --> 3926.82] Behavior -[3926.82 --> 3928.20] If -[3928.20 --> 3928.22] If -[3928.22 --> 3928.30] We -[3928.30 --> 3928.64] Submit -[3928.64 --> 3928.80] To -[3928.80 --> 3929.10] Certain -[3929.10 --> 3930.32] Standards -[3930.32 --> 3931.08] Of -[3931.08 --> 3931.60] And -[3931.60 --> 3932.50] Expectations -[3932.50 --> 3932.82] Of -[3932.82 --> 3933.18] Life -[3933.18 --> 3934.04] Together -[3934.04 --> 3936.00] Yet -[3936.00 --> 3937.04] For -[3937.04 --> 3937.24] Some -[3937.24 --> 3937.64] Reason -[3937.64 --> 3938.66] From -[3938.66 --> 3939.32] Hollywood -[3939.32 --> 3939.86] To -[3939.86 --> 3940.26] Our -[3940.26 --> 3940.84] Homes -[3940.84 --> 3941.28] We -[3941.28 --> 3942.00] Continue -[3942.00 --> 3942.52] As -[3942.52 --> 3943.02] A -[3943.02 --> 3943.50] Species -[3943.50 --> 3943.78] To -[3943.78 --> 3944.32] Exalt -[3944.32 --> 3944.82] Self -[3944.82 --> 3945.58] Sacrificial -[3945.58 --> 3946.42] Behavior -[3946.42 --> 3947.22] Which -[3947.22 --> 3947.48] Flies -[3947.48 --> 3947.60] In -[3947.60 --> 3947.70] The -[3947.70 --> 3948.02] Face -[3948.02 --> 3948.36] Of -[3948.36 --> 3948.70] The -[3948.70 --> 3949.42] Survival -[3949.42 --> 3949.54] Of -[3949.54 --> 3949.64] The -[3949.64 --> 3949.98] Fittest -[3949.98 --> 3950.70] And -[3950.70 --> 3950.84] The -[3950.84 --> 3951.38] Strongest -[3951.38 --> 3953.50] Now -[3953.50 --> 3953.64] A -[3953.64 --> 3953.80] More -[3953.80 --> 3954.24] Common -[3954.24 --> 3954.78] Idea -[3954.78 --> 3955.32] In -[3955.32 --> 3955.78] Today's -[3955.78 --> 3956.16] World -[3956.16 --> 3957.74] Is -[3957.74 --> 3958.40] Is -[3958.40 --> 3958.56] To -[3958.56 --> 3958.96] Argue -[3958.96 --> 3959.68] That -[3959.68 --> 3960.76] Morality -[3960.76 --> 3961.26] And -[3961.26 --> 3961.82] Who -[3961.82 --> 3962.12] I -[3962.12 --> 3962.50] Am -[3962.50 --> 3963.08] And -[3963.08 --> 3963.26] How -[3963.26 --> 3963.46] We -[3963.46 --> 3963.70] Live -[3963.70 --> 3964.14] Together -[3964.14 --> 3964.52] Is -[3964.52 --> 3964.90] Based -[3964.90 --> 3965.22] On -[3965.22 --> 3965.58] Some -[3965.58 --> 3966.22] Sort -[3966.22 --> 3966.34] Of -[3966.34 --> 3966.84] Universal -[3966.84 --> 3967.70] Categories -[3967.70 --> 3967.98] Or -[3967.98 --> 3968.62] Principles -[3968.62 --> 3968.84] That -[3968.84 --> 3969.26] Exist -[3969.26 --> 3969.50] Sort -[3969.50 --> 3969.62] Of -[3969.62 --> 3970.50] Transcendent -[3970.50 --> 3971.14] Over -[3971.14 --> 3971.88] Culture -[3971.88 --> 3973.02] Immanuel Kant -[3973.02 --> 3973.48] Talked -[3973.48 --> 3973.68] About -[3973.68 --> 3973.96] This -[3973.96 --> 3975.16] But -[3975.16 --> 3975.32] Again -[3975.32 --> 3975.48] The -[3975.48 --> 3975.78] Problem -[3975.78 --> 3976.22] Here -[3976.22 --> 3976.64] Is -[3976.64 --> 3976.76] That -[3976.76 --> 3976.90] If -[3976.90 --> 3977.12] These -[3977.12 --> 3977.86] Moral -[3977.86 --> 3978.50] Imperatives -[3978.50 --> 3978.70] Are -[3978.70 --> 3979.50] Transcendent -[3979.50 --> 3979.70] That -[3979.70 --> 3979.82] Is -[3979.82 --> 3980.20] Above -[3980.20 --> 3980.40] Or -[3980.40 --> 3980.72] Apart -[3980.72 --> 3980.92] From -[3980.92 --> 3981.04] Us -[3981.04 --> 3981.48] How -[3981.48 --> 3981.60] Do -[3981.60 --> 3981.70] We -[3981.70 --> 3981.86] Come -[3981.86 --> 3982.00] To -[3982.00 --> 3982.20] Know -[3982.20 --> 3982.46] Them -[3982.46 --> 3984.14] And -[3984.14 --> 3984.38] We -[3984.38 --> 3984.66] Keep -[3984.66 --> 3984.98] Going -[3984.98 --> 3985.14] As -[3985.14 --> 3985.26] We -[3986.16 --> 4016.14] The -[4016.14 --> 4016.28] To -[4016.28 --> 4016.46] This -[4016.46 --> 4016.90] Question -[4016.90 --> 4017.54] That -[4017.54 --> 4017.64] Are -[4017.64 --> 4017.84] Wrong -[4017.84 --> 4018.02] That -[4018.02 --> 4018.16] Is -[4018.16 --> 4018.58] Answers -[4018.58 --> 4018.76] That -[4018.76 --> 4018.92] Say -[4018.92 --> 4019.20] Yes -[4019.20 --> 4019.38] There -[4019.38 --> 4019.60] Is -[4019.60 --> 4019.72] A -[4019.72 --> 4020.02] God -[4020.02 --> 4021.84] But -[4021.84 --> 4022.28] Thinks -[4022.28 --> 4022.42] Of -[4022.42 --> 4022.76] God -[4022.76 --> 4024.70] Incorrectly -[4024.70 --> 4026.26] And -[4026.26 --> 4027.00] Some -[4027.00 --> 4027.16] Of -[4027.16 --> 4027.34] These -[4027.34 --> 4027.92] Ideas -[4027.92 --> 4028.44] Exist -[4028.44 --> 4029.12] Here -[4029.12 --> 4029.38] In -[4029.38 --> 4029.74] Us -[4029.74 --> 4030.78] Right -[4030.78 --> 4030.94] If -[4030.94 --> 4031.30] You -[4031.30 --> 4031.80] Understand -[4031.80 --> 4032.36] God -[4032.36 --> 4032.54] As -[4032.54 --> 4032.72] The -[4032.72 --> 4033.46] Divine -[4033.46 --> 4033.98] Judge -[4033.98 --> 4034.20] Who's -[4034.20 --> 4034.42] Up -[4034.42 --> 4034.58] In -[4034.58 --> 4034.84] Heaven -[4034.84 --> 4035.20] Waiting -[4035.20 --> 4035.46] To -[4035.46 --> 4035.80] Strike -[4035.80 --> 4035.98] You -[4035.98 --> 4036.28] Down -[4036.28 --> 4036.48] For -[4036.48 --> 4036.78] Every -[4036.78 --> 4037.44] Misstep -[4037.44 --> 4038.66] Well -[4038.66 --> 4038.84] That's -[4038.84 --> 4039.32] Obviously -[4039.32 --> 4039.62] Going -[4039.62 --> 4039.72] To -[4039.72 --> 4040.14] Affect -[4040.14 --> 4040.68] Your -[4040.68 --> 4041.08] Answer -[4041.08 --> 4041.40] To -[4041.40 --> 4041.54] The -[4041.54 --> 4041.84] Question -[4041.84 --> 4042.02] Of -[4042.02 --> 4042.16] Who -[4042.16 --> 4042.38] You -[4042.38 --> 4042.70] Are -[4042.70 --> 4043.50] And -[4043.50 --> 4043.66] How -[4043.66 --> 4043.84] You -[4043.84 --> 4043.98] Are -[4043.98 --> 4044.32] Supposed -[4044.32 --> 4044.48] To -[4044.48 --> 4044.70] Live -[4044.70 --> 4044.88] In -[4044.88 --> 4045.50] Response -[4045.50 --> 4046.14] To -[4046.14 --> 4046.32] This -[4046.32 --> 4046.66] God -[4046.66 --> 4047.76] And -[4047.76 --> 4047.98] Maybe -[4047.98 --> 4048.34] You -[4048.34 --> 4048.64] See -[4048.64 --> 4049.02] God -[4049.02 --> 4049.24] As -[4049.24 --> 4049.36] An -[4049.36 --> 4050.10] Authoritarian -[4050.10 --> 4050.70] Dictator -[4050.70 --> 4050.90] That -[4050.90 --> 4051.14] Needs -[4051.14 --> 4051.28] To -[4051.28 --> 4051.42] Be -[4051.42 --> 4051.84] Appeased -[4051.84 --> 4052.00] With -[4052.00 --> 4052.62] Sacrifice -[4052.62 --> 4053.08] And -[4053.08 --> 4053.44] Service -[4053.44 --> 4053.66] And -[4053.66 --> 4053.82] So -[4053.82 --> 4054.00] Your -[4054.00 --> 4054.32] Life -[4054.32 --> 4054.48] Is -[4054.48 --> 4054.68] One -[4054.68 --> 4055.06] That -[4055.06 --> 4055.18] Is -[4055.18 --> 4055.92] Constantly -[4055.92 --> 4056.86] Being -[4056.86 --> 4057.36] Laid -[4057.36 --> 4057.78] Low -[4057.78 --> 4058.14] Being -[4058.14 --> 4058.72] Pushed -[4058.72 --> 4059.12] Down -[4059.12 --> 4059.34] And -[4059.34 --> 4059.70] You -[4059.70 --> 4059.82] Are -[4059.82 --> 4060.40] Constantly -[4060.40 --> 4060.84] Feeling -[4060.84 --> 4061.82] Overwhelmed -[4061.82 --> 4062.26] And -[4062.26 --> 4062.80] Oppressed -[4062.80 --> 4065.74] This -[4065.74 --> 4066.08] Morning -[4066.08 --> 4067.82] Using -[4067.82 --> 4068.14] Psalm -[4068.14 --> 4068.52] Eight -[4068.52 --> 4069.64] I -[4069.64 --> 4069.78] Want -[4069.78 --> 4069.90] To -[4069.90 --> 4070.16] Spend -[4070.16 --> 4070.40] Some -[4070.40 --> 4070.78] Time -[4070.78 --> 4071.10] With -[4071.10 --> 4071.46] You -[4071.46 --> 4072.26] Seeing -[4072.26 --> 4072.50] How -[4072.50 --> 4072.68] The -[4072.68 --> 4073.14] Bible -[4073.14 --> 4073.78] Answers -[4073.78 --> 4074.14] These -[4074.14 --> 4074.92] Questions -[4074.92 --> 4075.18] For -[4075.18 --> 4075.56] Us -[4075.56 --> 4075.80] And -[4075.80 --> 4076.14] Then -[4076.14 --> 4076.96] Seeing -[4076.96 --> 4077.40] How -[4077.40 --> 4077.72] The -[4077.72 --> 4078.72] Bible -[4078.72 --> 4080.02] The -[4080.02 --> 4080.40] Bible -[4080.40 --> 4081.22] Bible's -[4081.22 --> 4081.48] Answer -[4081.48 --> 4081.66] To -[4081.66 --> 4081.82] The -[4081.82 --> 4082.14] First -[4082.14 --> 4082.68] Question -[4082.68 --> 4083.82] Impacts -[4083.82 --> 4084.32] The -[4084.32 --> 4084.92] Answer -[4084.92 --> 4085.20] We -[4085.20 --> 4085.48] Have -[4085.48 --> 4085.90] To -[4085.90 --> 4086.06] The -[4086.06 --> 4086.32] Second -[4086.32 --> 4087.40] And -[4087.40 --> 4087.50] I -[4087.50 --> 4087.60] Want -[4087.60 --> 4087.72] To -[4087.72 --> 4088.16] Challenge -[4088.16 --> 4088.52] You -[4088.52 --> 4088.82] To -[4088.82 --> 4089.62] Hold -[4089.62 --> 4090.14] Up -[4090.14 --> 4090.48] The -[4090.48 --> 4091.32] Biblical -[4091.32 --> 4091.76] Way -[4091.76 --> 4092.00] Of -[4092.00 --> 4092.56] Being -[4092.56 --> 4093.36] Into -[4093.36 --> 4094.80] To -[4094.80 --> 4094.90] The -[4094.90 --> 4095.06] Way -[4095.06 --> 4095.20] That -[4095.20 --> 4095.30] You -[4095.30 --> 4095.48] Have -[4095.48 --> 4095.76] Been -[4095.76 --> 4096.56] Living -[4096.56 --> 4097.64] Together -[4097.64 --> 4098.14] And -[4098.14 --> 4098.30] Then -[4098.30 --> 4098.62] See -[4098.62 --> 4099.26] If -[4099.26 --> 4099.38] It -[4099.38 --> 4099.96] Matches -[4099.96 --> 4100.78] With -[4100.78 --> 4100.92] How -[4100.92 --> 4101.18] You -[4101.18 --> 4101.98] Actually -[4101.98 --> 4102.30] Show -[4102.30 --> 4102.46] Up -[4102.46 --> 4102.56] In -[4102.56 --> 4102.66] The -[4102.66 --> 4102.98] World -[4102.98 --> 4103.38] And -[4103.38 --> 4104.32] What -[4104.32 --> 4104.42] The -[4104.42 --> 4104.64] Bible -[4104.64 --> 4104.98] Says -[4104.98 --> 4106.16] Because -[4106.16 --> 4106.44] Remember -[4106.44 --> 4106.62] In -[4106.62 --> 4106.86] Some -[4106.86 --> 4107.20] Way -[4107.20 --> 4107.98] Or -[4107.98 --> 4108.34] Form -[4108.34 --> 4108.92] Everyone -[4108.92 --> 4109.40] Lives -[4109.40 --> 4109.66] Out -[4109.66 --> 4109.80] Of -[4109.80 --> 4109.94] An -[4109.94 --> 4110.14] Answer -[4110.14 --> 4110.30] To -[4110.30 --> 4110.50] These -[4110.50 --> 4110.68] Two -[4110.68 --> 4111.12] Questions -[4111.12 --> 4111.34] Who -[4111.34 --> 4111.56] Is -[4111.56 --> 4111.92] God -[4111.92 --> 4112.38] And -[4112.38 --> 4112.56] Who -[4112.56 --> 4112.76] Am -[4112.76 --> 4113.00] I -[4113.00 --> 4114.54] Denying -[4114.54 --> 4115.06] One -[4115.06 --> 4115.44] Or -[4115.44 --> 4115.94] The -[4115.94 --> 4116.30] Other -[4116.30 --> 4117.04] Saying -[4117.04 --> 4117.42] There -[4117.42 --> 4117.70] Is -[4117.70 --> 4117.90] No -[4117.90 --> 4118.28] God -[4118.28 --> 4118.46] Or -[4118.46 --> 4118.70] God -[4118.70 --> 4118.94] Is -[4118.94 --> 4119.74] Blank -[4119.74 --> 4120.08] Are -[4120.08 --> 4120.58] Both -[4120.58 --> 4121.58] Answers -[4121.58 --> 4122.84] To -[4122.84 --> 4122.98] That -[4122.98 --> 4123.34] Question -[4123.34 --> 4123.66] And -[4123.66 --> 4123.96] Both -[4123.96 --> 4124.26] Will -[4124.26 --> 4124.78] Impact -[4124.78 --> 4125.74] The -[4125.74 --> 4125.96] Second -[4125.96 --> 4128.60] And -[4128.60 --> 4128.82] So -[4128.82 --> 4131.22] There's -[4131.22 --> 4131.66] An -[4131.66 --> 4132.66] Explicit -[4132.66 --> 4133.70] Link -[4133.70 --> 4134.44] Between -[4134.44 --> 4135.08] Your -[4135.08 --> 4135.36] Answer -[4135.36 --> 4135.56] To -[4135.56 --> 4135.68] The -[4135.68 --> 4136.02] Question -[4136.02 --> 4136.30] Who -[4136.30 --> 4136.54] Is -[4136.54 --> 4136.92] God -[4136.92 --> 4137.48] And -[4137.48 --> 4137.64] Your -[4137.64 --> 4137.88] Answer -[4137.88 --> 4138.06] To -[4138.06 --> 4138.20] The -[4138.20 --> 4138.56] Question -[4138.56 --> 4139.20] Who -[4139.20 --> 4139.36] Am -[4139.36 --> 4139.60] I -[4139.60 --> 4140.06] And -[4140.06 --> 4140.20] That -[4140.20 --> 4140.50] Link -[4140.50 --> 4140.78] Is -[4140.78 --> 4141.72] Made -[4141.72 --> 4142.54] Beautifully -[4142.54 --> 4143.00] In -[4143.00 --> 4143.12] The -[4143.12 --> 4143.44] Words -[4143.44 --> 4143.60] Of -[4143.60 --> 4143.86] John -[4143.86 --> 4144.30] Calvin -[4144.30 --> 4144.64] John -[4144.64 --> 4144.98] Calvin -[4144.98 --> 4145.18] Is -[4145.18 --> 4145.34] A -[4145.34 --> 4145.94] 16th -[4145.94 --> 4146.38] Century -[4146.38 --> 4147.16] French -[4147.16 --> 4147.90] Theologian -[4147.90 --> 4148.54] Who -[4148.54 --> 4148.88] Lived -[4148.88 --> 4149.12] And -[4149.12 --> 4149.44] Worked -[4149.44 --> 4149.86] Mostly -[4149.86 --> 4150.10] In -[4150.10 --> 4150.44] Geneva -[4150.44 --> 4151.56] And -[4151.56 --> 4151.76] In -[4151.76 --> 4152.04] His -[4152.04 --> 4153.46] Massive -[4153.46 --> 4154.22] Book -[4154.22 --> 4154.42] The -[4154.42 --> 4154.96] Institutes -[4154.96 --> 4155.08] Of -[4155.08 --> 4155.20] The -[4155.20 --> 4155.48] Christian -[4155.48 --> 4155.90] Religion -[4155.90 --> 4156.62] He -[4156.62 --> 4157.48] Starts -[4157.48 --> 4158.00] With -[4158.00 --> 4158.34] This -[4158.34 --> 4158.78] Tie -[4158.78 --> 4159.18] I'm -[4159.18 --> 4159.26] Going -[4159.26 --> 4159.30] To -[4159.30 --> 4159.48] Read -[4159.48 --> 4159.68] This -[4159.68 --> 4159.94] Quote -[4159.94 --> 4160.10] To -[4160.10 --> 4160.24] You -[4160.24 --> 4160.40] It's -[4160.40 --> 4160.48] A -[4160.48 --> 4160.56] Little -[4160.56 --> 4160.68] Bit -[4160.68 --> 4160.94] Long -[4160.94 --> 4161.10] But -[4161.10 --> 4161.28] It's -[4161.28 --> 4161.44] Worth -[4161.44 --> 4161.66] Hearing -[4161.66 --> 4161.82] And -[4161.82 --> 4161.90] It -[4161.90 --> 4162.00] Will -[4162.00 --> 4162.12] Be -[4162.12 --> 4162.24] On -[4162.24 --> 4162.36] The -[4162.36 --> 4162.68] Screen -[4162.68 --> 4163.54] There -[4163.54 --> 4165.42] He -[4165.42 --> 4165.68] Writes -[4165.68 --> 4167.08] In -[4167.08 --> 4167.24] The -[4167.24 --> 4167.50] First -[4167.50 --> 4167.94] Place -[4167.94 --> 4168.98] No -[4168.98 --> 4169.34] Man -[4169.34 --> 4169.64] Can -[4169.64 --> 4170.00] Survey -[4170.00 --> 4170.60] Himself -[4170.60 --> 4171.08] Without -[4171.08 --> 4171.76] Forthwith -[4171.76 --> 4172.14] Turning -[4172.14 --> 4172.40] His -[4172.40 --> 4172.78] Thoughts -[4172.78 --> 4173.18] Toward -[4173.18 --> 4173.64] God -[4173.64 --> 4173.92] In -[4173.92 --> 4174.12] Whom -[4174.12 --> 4174.30] He -[4174.30 --> 4174.64] Lives -[4174.64 --> 4175.16] And -[4175.16 --> 4175.52] Moves -[4175.52 --> 4176.78] Every -[4176.78 --> 4177.22] Person -[4177.22 --> 4177.64] Therefore -[4177.64 --> 4177.96] On -[4177.96 --> 4178.26] Coming -[4178.26 --> 4178.50] To -[4178.50 --> 4178.90] Knowledge -[4178.90 --> 4179.12] Of -[4179.12 --> 4179.64] Himself -[4179.64 --> 4180.20] Is -[4180.20 --> 4180.40] Not -[4180.40 --> 4180.60] Only -[4180.60 --> 4180.88] Urged -[4180.88 --> 4181.08] To -[4181.08 --> 4181.42] Seek -[4181.42 --> 4181.86] God -[4181.86 --> 4182.30] But -[4182.30 --> 4182.44] Is -[4182.44 --> 4182.84] Also -[4182.84 --> 4183.24] Led -[4183.24 --> 4183.56] As -[4183.56 --> 4183.78] By -[4183.78 --> 4183.96] The -[4183.96 --> 4184.38] Hand -[4184.38 --> 4184.64] To -[4184.64 --> 4184.94] Find -[4184.94 --> 4185.18] Him -[4185.18 --> 4186.38] On -[4186.38 --> 4186.48] The -[4186.48 --> 4186.68] Other -[4186.68 --> 4187.00] Hand -[4187.00 --> 4187.22] It -[4187.22 --> 4187.34] Is -[4187.34 --> 4187.66] Evident -[4187.66 --> 4187.90] That -[4187.90 --> 4188.14] Man -[4188.14 --> 4188.44] Never -[4188.44 --> 4188.96] Attains -[4188.96 --> 4189.22] A -[4189.22 --> 4189.52] True -[4189.52 --> 4190.00] Self -[4190.00 --> 4190.46] Knowledge -[4190.46 --> 4191.02] Until -[4191.02 --> 4191.78] He -[4191.78 --> 4192.10] Have -[4192.10 --> 4192.70] Previously -[4192.70 --> 4193.58] Contemplated -[4193.58 --> 4193.76] The -[4193.76 --> 4194.08] Face -[4194.08 --> 4194.30] Of -[4194.30 --> 4194.68] God -[4194.68 --> 4195.16] And -[4195.16 --> 4195.42] Come -[4195.42 --> 4195.72] Down -[4195.72 --> 4196.04] After -[4196.04 --> 4196.32] Such -[4196.32 --> 4197.08] Contemplation -[4197.08 --> 4197.58] To -[4197.58 --> 4197.82] Look -[4197.82 --> 4198.36] Unto -[4198.36 --> 4198.90] Himself -[4198.90 --> 4201.36] Calvin -[4201.36 --> 4201.56] Is -[4201.56 --> 4201.82] Saying -[4201.82 --> 4202.00] That -[4202.00 --> 4202.32] By -[4202.32 --> 4202.74] Asking -[4202.74 --> 4202.96] The -[4202.96 --> 4203.26] First -[4203.26 --> 4203.78] Question -[4203.78 --> 4204.04] Who -[4204.04 --> 4204.24] Is -[4204.24 --> 4204.56] God -[4204.56 --> 4204.78] We -[4204.78 --> 4204.92] Are -[4204.92 --> 4205.14] Led -[4205.14 --> 4205.78] Naturally -[4205.78 --> 4206.38] To -[4206.38 --> 4206.54] The -[4206.54 --> 4206.82] Second -[4206.82 --> 4207.30] Question -[4207.30 --> 4207.74] And -[4207.74 --> 4207.90] By -[4207.90 --> 4208.26] Asking -[4208.26 --> 4208.44] The -[4208.44 --> 4208.70] Second -[4208.70 --> 4209.16] Question -[4209.16 --> 4209.40] Who -[4209.40 --> 4209.66] Am -[4209.66 --> 4209.98] I -[4209.98 --> 4210.42] We -[4210.42 --> 4210.56] Are -[4210.56 --> 4210.90] Going -[4210.90 --> 4211.30] To -[4211.30 --> 4211.70] End -[4211.70 --> 4212.12] Up -[4212.12 --> 4212.60] Asking -[4212.60 --> 4212.80] The -[4212.80 --> 4213.16] Question -[4213.16 --> 4213.70] Who -[4213.70 --> 4213.92] Is -[4213.92 --> 4214.16] God -[4214.16 --> 4214.32] The -[4214.32 --> 4214.50] Two -[4214.50 --> 4215.00] Questions -[4215.00 --> 4215.34] Go -[4215.34 --> 4215.74] Hand -[4215.74 --> 4216.02] In -[4216.02 --> 4216.70] Glove -[4216.70 --> 4217.08] Together -[4217.08 --> 4217.32] If -[4217.32 --> 4217.48] You -[4217.48 --> 4217.62] Are -[4217.62 --> 4218.04] Asking -[4218.04 --> 4218.24] The -[4218.24 --> 4218.50] Second -[4218.50 --> 4218.78] You -[4218.78 --> 4219.06] Must -[4219.06 --> 4219.48] Consider -[4219.48 --> 4219.68] The -[4219.68 --> 4219.94] First -[4219.94 --> 4220.40] When -[4220.40 --> 4220.54] You -[4220.54 --> 4220.76] Ask -[4220.76 --> 4220.94] The -[4220.94 --> 4221.18] First -[4221.18 --> 4221.62] You -[4221.62 --> 4221.80] Will -[4221.80 --> 4222.16] Eventually -[4222.16 --> 4222.66] Consider -[4222.66 --> 4223.30] The -[4223.30 --> 4223.60] Second -[4223.60 --> 4224.70] Psalm -[4224.70 --> 4225.12] Eight -[4225.12 --> 4225.74] Itself -[4225.74 --> 4226.78] Reminds -[4226.78 --> 4226.98] Us -[4226.98 --> 4227.16] That -[4227.16 --> 4227.34] We -[4227.34 --> 4227.58] Are -[4227.58 --> 4228.14] Prone -[4228.14 --> 4228.50] To -[4228.50 --> 4229.00] Ask -[4229.00 --> 4229.48] These -[4229.48 --> 4230.02] Kinds -[4230.02 --> 4230.28] Of -[4230.28 --> 4231.12] Questions -[4231.12 --> 4232.26] And -[4232.26 --> 4232.44] As -[4232.44 --> 4232.58] We -[4232.58 --> 4232.78] Read -[4232.78 --> 4232.88] It -[4232.88 --> 4233.00] In -[4233.00 --> 4233.24] Psalm -[4233.24 --> 4233.38] Eight -[4233.38 --> 4233.70] We -[4233.70 --> 4233.82] Are -[4233.82 --> 4234.02] Not -[4234.02 --> 4234.40] Only -[4234.40 --> 4234.66] In -[4234.66 --> 4234.82] The -[4234.82 --> 4235.08] Realm -[4235.08 --> 4235.26] Of -[4235.26 --> 4235.90] Philosophy -[4235.90 --> 4236.32] And -[4236.32 --> 4237.04] Psychology -[4237.04 --> 4237.66] We -[4237.66 --> 4237.84] Are -[4237.84 --> 4237.96] In -[4237.96 --> 4238.10] The -[4238.10 --> 4238.36] Realm -[4238.36 --> 4238.54] Of -[4238.54 --> 4239.12] Everyday -[4239.12 --> 4240.26] Life -[4240.26 --> 4241.24] The -[4241.24 --> 4241.50] Psalm -[4241.50 --> 4241.98] Says -[4241.98 --> 4242.64] You -[4242.64 --> 4242.86] Have -[4242.86 --> 4243.18] Set -[4243.18 --> 4243.36] Your -[4243.36 --> 4243.88] Glory -[4243.88 --> 4244.26] Above -[4244.26 --> 4244.80] The -[4244.80 --> 4245.74] Heavens -[4245.74 --> 4245.88] When -[4245.88 --> 4245.98] I -[4245.98 --> 4246.40] Consider -[4248.50 --> 4248.70] The -[4248.70 --> 4249.12] Stars -[4249.12 --> 4249.70] Which -[4249.70 --> 4249.92] You -[4249.92 --> 4250.10] Have -[4250.10 --> 4250.36] Set -[4250.36 --> 4250.56] In -[4250.56 --> 4250.86] Place -[4250.86 --> 4251.12] We -[4251.12 --> 4251.34] Are -[4251.34 --> 4252.62] Contemplating -[4252.62 --> 4253.56] God -[4253.56 --> 4255.10] I -[4255.10 --> 4255.28] Can't -[4255.28 --> 4255.44] Help -[4255.44 --> 4255.58] When -[4255.58 --> 4255.70] I -[4255.70 --> 4255.86] Read -[4255.86 --> 4256.02] That -[4256.02 --> 4256.18] But -[4256.18 --> 4256.34] To -[4256.34 --> 4257.04] Think -[4257.04 --> 4258.30] Times -[4258.30 --> 4258.48] Where -[4258.48 --> 4258.56] I -[4258.56 --> 4259.02] Have -[4259.02 --> 4259.50] Camped -[4259.50 --> 4259.72] On -[4259.72 --> 4260.14] Top -[4260.14 --> 4260.46] Of -[4260.46 --> 4261.02] Mountains -[4261.02 --> 4261.38] Or -[4261.38 --> 4262.00] Where -[4262.00 --> 4262.10] I -[4262.10 --> 4262.46] Been -[4262.46 --> 4262.70] In -[4262.70 --> 4262.88] The -[4262.88 --> 4263.98] Back -[4263.98 --> 4264.44] Country -[4264.44 --> 4264.96] Somewhere -[4264.96 --> 4265.44] Looking -[4265.44 --> 4265.74] Up -[4265.74 --> 4265.98] At -[4265.98 --> 4266.12] The -[4266.12 --> 4266.36] Night -[4266.36 --> 4266.72] Sky -[4266.72 --> 4267.16] Totally -[4267.16 --> 4267.74] Removed -[4267.74 --> 4267.92] From -[4267.92 --> 4268.16] Any -[4268.16 --> 4268.82] Other -[4268.82 --> 4269.14] Light -[4269.14 --> 4269.60] Pollution -[4269.60 --> 4269.84] And -[4269.84 --> 4270.14] See -[4270.14 --> 4271.10] Millions -[4271.10 --> 4271.34] Of -[4271.34 --> 4271.72] Millions -[4271.72 --> 4271.88] Of -[4271.88 --> 4272.18] Stars -[4272.18 --> 4272.90] Right -[4272.90 --> 4273.08] With -[4273.08 --> 4273.32] The -[4273.32 --> 4273.62] Milky -[4278.50 --> 4278.70] Who -[4278.70 --> 4278.90] Is -[4278.90 --> 4279.30] God -[4279.30 --> 4280.86] Who -[4280.86 --> 4281.04] Am -[4281.04 --> 4281.34] I -[4281.34 --> 4283.02] Right -[4283.02 --> 4283.14] When -[4283.14 --> 4283.24] You -[4283.24 --> 4283.68] Stand -[4283.68 --> 4283.94] In -[4283.94 --> 4284.10] The -[4284.10 --> 4284.52] Interior -[4284.52 --> 4285.04] Somewhere -[4285.04 --> 4285.26] On -[4285.26 --> 4285.38] A -[4285.38 --> 4285.60] Clear -[4285.60 --> 4285.92] Night -[4285.92 --> 4286.22] Away -[4286.22 --> 4286.42] From -[4286.42 --> 4286.56] The -[4286.56 --> 4286.74] City -[4286.74 --> 4287.02] Lights -[4287.02 --> 4287.16] And -[4287.16 --> 4287.26] You -[4287.26 --> 4287.46] Look -[4287.46 --> 4287.64] Up -[4287.64 --> 4287.76] At -[4287.76 --> 4287.92] These -[4287.92 --> 4288.32] Countless -[4288.32 --> 4288.62] Stars -[4288.62 --> 4289.16] What -[4289.16 --> 4289.26] Do -[4289.26 --> 4289.38] You -[4289.38 --> 4289.70] Ask -[4289.70 --> 4290.14] Yourself -[4290.14 --> 4291.56] When -[4291.56 --> 4291.68] You -[4291.68 --> 4292.04] Stand -[4292.04 --> 4292.28] On -[4292.28 --> 4292.40] Your -[4292.40 --> 4292.80] Dock -[4292.80 --> 4293.00] At -[4293.00 --> 4293.14] The -[4293.14 --> 4293.56] Cottage -[4293.56 --> 4294.32] Early -[4294.32 --> 4294.56] In -[4294.56 --> 4294.70] The -[4294.70 --> 4294.98] Morning -[4294.98 --> 4295.20] And -[4295.20 --> 4295.54] Water -[4295.54 --> 4295.90] Vapor -[4295.90 --> 4296.18] Is -[4296.18 --> 4296.60] Rising -[4296.60 --> 4297.16] Off -[4297.16 --> 4297.38] And -[4297.38 --> 4297.80] Floating -[4297.80 --> 4298.46] Into -[4298.46 --> 4298.68] The -[4298.68 --> 4299.04] Air -[4299.04 --> 4301.12] Who -[4301.12 --> 4301.28] Do -[4301.28 --> 4301.44] You -[4301.44 --> 4301.76] Think -[4301.76 --> 4302.84] Made -[4302.84 --> 4303.12] It -[4303.12 --> 4304.64] Or -[4304.64 --> 4304.74] When -[4304.74 --> 4304.92] You -[4304.92 --> 4305.14] Stand -[4305.14 --> 4305.28] At -[4305.28 --> 4305.38] The -[4308.50 --> 4308.62] You -[4308.62 --> 4308.84] Happen -[4308.84 --> 4308.96] To -[4308.96 --> 4309.14] Go -[4309.14 --> 4309.34] On -[4309.34 --> 4309.48] A -[4309.48 --> 4309.80] Cruise -[4309.80 --> 4310.38] Do -[4310.38 --> 4310.56] You -[4310.56 --> 4310.96] Ask -[4310.96 --> 4311.50] What -[4311.50 --> 4311.72] Is -[4311.72 --> 4312.44] Humanity -[4312.44 --> 4312.70] That -[4312.70 --> 4312.92] You -[4312.92 --> 4313.18] Are -[4313.18 --> 4313.76] Mindful -[4313.76 --> 4313.92] Of -[4313.92 --> 4314.24] Us -[4314.24 --> 4315.78] Who -[4315.78 --> 4316.06] Is -[4316.06 --> 4316.54] God -[4316.54 --> 4316.80] And -[4316.80 --> 4317.00] Who -[4317.00 --> 4317.22] Are -[4317.22 --> 4317.60] You -[4317.60 --> 4318.16] In -[4318.16 --> 4318.58] Relation -[4318.58 --> 4318.78] To -[4318.78 --> 4318.98] Him -[4318.98 --> 4320.70] Verse -[4320.70 --> 4320.96] One -[4320.96 --> 4321.66] Professes -[4321.66 --> 4322.28] Lord -[4322.28 --> 4322.60] Our -[4322.60 --> 4322.98] Lord -[4322.98 --> 4323.22] How -[4323.22 --> 4323.86] Majestic -[4323.86 --> 4324.34] Is -[4324.34 --> 4324.58] Your -[4324.58 --> 4325.02] Name -[4325.02 --> 4325.74] In -[4325.74 --> 4326.06] All -[4326.06 --> 4326.24] The -[4326.24 --> 4326.54] Earth -[4326.54 --> 4328.74] As -[4328.74 --> 4328.94] This -[4328.94 --> 4329.24] Verse -[4329.24 --> 4329.86] Tells -[4329.86 --> 4330.06] Us -[4330.06 --> 4330.26] That -[4330.26 --> 4331.28] God -[4331.28 --> 4331.60] Is -[4331.60 --> 4332.42] Revealed -[4332.42 --> 4332.86] In -[4332.86 --> 4333.36] All -[4333.36 --> 4333.60] The -[4333.60 --> 4334.00] Earth -[4334.00 --> 4334.20] And -[4334.20 --> 4334.32] In -[4334.32 --> 4334.60] All -[4334.60 --> 4335.08] The -[4335.08 --> 4335.48] Heavens -[4335.48 --> 4337.62] In -[4337.62 --> 4337.86] Our -[4337.86 --> 4338.32] Church -[4338.32 --> 4338.94] Tradition -[4338.94 --> 4339.26] The -[4339.26 --> 4339.74] Reformed -[4339.74 --> 4340.26] Church -[4340.26 --> 4341.84] We -[4341.84 --> 4342.16] Have -[4342.16 --> 4343.28] A -[4343.28 --> 4343.60] Series -[4343.60 --> 4344.16] Of -[4344.16 --> 4345.04] Confessions -[4345.04 --> 4345.34] And -[4345.34 --> 4345.94] Catechisms -[4345.94 --> 4346.18] That -[4346.18 --> 4346.44] Help -[4346.44 --> 4346.70] Us -[4346.70 --> 4347.44] Understand -[4347.44 --> 4347.76] Who -[4347.76 --> 4348.00] We -[4348.00 --> 4348.36] Are -[4348.36 --> 4349.12] One -[4349.12 --> 4349.26] Of -[4349.26 --> 4349.48] Those -[4349.48 --> 4349.66] Is -[4349.66 --> 4349.90] Called -[4349.90 --> 4350.08] The -[4350.08 --> 4350.52] Belgic -[4350.52 --> 4351.20] Confession -[4351.20 --> 4352.00] It's -[4352.00 --> 4352.08] A -[4352.08 --> 4352.40] Document -[4352.40 --> 4352.58] That -[4352.58 --> 4352.68] Was -[4352.68 --> 4352.86] Written -[4352.86 --> 4352.98] In -[4352.98 --> 4353.10] The -[4353.10 --> 4353.54] 16th -[4353.54 --> 4353.84] Century -[4353.84 --> 4354.10] By -[4354.10 --> 4354.80] Guido -[4354.80 --> 4355.22] Debray -[4355.22 --> 4355.42] To -[4355.42 --> 4355.60] Help -[4355.60 --> 4355.78] The -[4355.78 --> 4356.28] Churches -[4356.28 --> 4356.62] Of -[4356.62 --> 4356.82] The -[4356.82 --> 4357.80] Lowlands -[4357.80 --> 4358.52] Identify -[4358.52 --> 4359.14] Themselves -[4359.14 --> 4359.36] In -[4359.36 --> 4359.78] Distinction -[4359.78 --> 4360.02] From -[4360.02 --> 4360.28] Other -[4360.28 --> 4360.96] Churches -[4360.96 --> 4361.06] And -[4361.06 --> 4361.44] Traditions -[4361.44 --> 4361.74] Around -[4361.74 --> 4361.90] Them -[4361.90 --> 4362.94] The -[4362.94 --> 4363.32] Belgic -[4363.32 --> 4363.92] Confession -[4363.92 --> 4364.78] Calls -[4364.78 --> 4365.08] The -[4365.08 --> 4366.00] Created -[4366.00 --> 4366.50] World -[4366.50 --> 4366.88] The -[4366.88 --> 4367.38] First -[4367.38 --> 4367.96] Book -[4367.96 --> 4368.34] Of -[4368.34 --> 4368.80] God's -[4368.80 --> 4369.30] Revelation -[4369.30 --> 4369.56] And -[4369.56 --> 4369.70] It -[4369.70 --> 4370.00] Says -[4370.00 --> 4370.86] The -[4370.86 --> 4371.12] First -[4371.12 --> 4371.32] Book -[4371.32 --> 4371.46] Of -[4371.46 --> 4371.72] God's -[4371.72 --> 4372.02] Revelation -[4372.02 --> 4372.30] In -[4372.30 --> 4372.52] Which -[4372.52 --> 4372.88] All -[4372.88 --> 4373.52] Creatures -[4373.52 --> 4373.94] Great -[4373.94 --> 4374.20] And -[4374.20 --> 4374.62] Small -[4374.62 --> 4375.14] Are -[4375.14 --> 4375.44] As -[4375.44 --> 4376.18] Letters -[4376.18 --> 4376.52] To -[4376.52 --> 4376.80] Make -[4376.80 --> 4377.10] Us -[4377.10 --> 4377.60] Ponder -[4377.60 --> 4377.90] The -[4377.90 --> 4378.40] Invisible -[4378.40 --> 4379.00] Things -[4379.00 --> 4379.58] Of -[4379.58 --> 4379.92] God -[4379.92 --> 4380.32] His -[4380.32 --> 4380.72] Eternal -[4380.72 --> 4381.18] Power -[4381.18 --> 4381.56] And -[4381.56 --> 4381.76] His -[4381.76 --> 4382.18] Divinity -[4382.18 --> 4383.34] All -[4383.34 --> 4383.36] All -[4383.36 --> 4383.68] These -[4383.68 --> 4384.04] Things -[4384.04 --> 4384.32] Are -[4384.32 --> 4384.64] Enough -[4384.64 --> 4384.86] To -[4384.86 --> 4385.32] Convict -[4385.32 --> 4385.96] Humanity -[4385.96 --> 4386.22] And -[4386.22 --> 4386.40] To -[4386.40 --> 4386.72] Leave -[4386.72 --> 4387.08] Them -[4387.08 --> 4387.90] Without -[4387.90 --> 4388.82] Excuse -[4388.82 --> 4391.14] Right -[4391.14 --> 4391.48] You -[4391.48 --> 4391.96] And -[4391.96 --> 4392.18] The -[4392.18 --> 4392.46] World -[4392.46 --> 4392.86] Around -[4392.86 --> 4393.22] You -[4393.22 --> 4393.82] Is -[4393.82 --> 4394.08] A -[4394.08 --> 4394.38] Letter -[4394.38 --> 4395.00] Of -[4395.00 --> 4395.46] God -[4395.46 --> 4396.06] Revealing -[4396.06 --> 4396.46] Himself -[4396.46 --> 4396.80] To -[4396.80 --> 4397.08] Us -[4397.08 --> 4397.50] Right -[4397.50 --> 4397.80] All -[4397.80 --> 4398.48] Creation -[4398.48 --> 4399.64] Testifies -[4399.64 --> 4399.94] To -[4399.94 --> 4400.10] The -[4400.10 --> 4400.40] Truth -[4400.40 --> 4400.82] That -[4400.82 --> 4400.98] There -[4400.98 --> 4401.14] Is -[4401.14 --> 4401.26] A -[4401.26 --> 4401.66] Creator -[4401.66 --> 4403.12] Psalm -[4403.12 --> 4403.48] 8 -[4403.48 --> 4403.90] Shows -[4403.90 --> 4404.10] Us -[4404.10 --> 4404.26] That -[4404.26 --> 4404.98] Creator -[4404.98 --> 4405.50] In -[4405.50 --> 4406.00] God -[4406.00 --> 4406.26] Is -[4406.26 --> 4406.74] God -[4406.74 --> 4406.94] And -[4406.94 --> 4407.04] He -[4407.04 --> 4407.88] Stands -[4407.88 --> 4408.34] Above -[4408.34 --> 4409.00] Creation -[4409.00 --> 4409.48] As -[4409.48 --> 4409.66] Its -[4409.66 --> 4410.16] Ruler -[4410.16 --> 4410.96] And -[4410.96 --> 4411.30] He's -[4411.30 --> 4411.76] Found -[4411.76 --> 4413.00] Through -[4413.00 --> 4413.24] It -[4413.24 --> 4414.90] Right -[4414.90 --> 4415.22] Psalm -[4415.22 --> 4415.48] 8 -[4415.48 --> 4415.84] First -[4415.84 --> 4416.24] Answer -[4416.24 --> 4416.44] To -[4416.44 --> 4416.58] The -[4416.58 --> 4416.98] Question -[4416.98 --> 4417.30] Who -[4417.30 --> 4417.56] Is -[4417.56 --> 4418.02] God -[4418.02 --> 4419.30] Is -[4419.30 --> 4419.86] Creator -[4419.86 --> 4420.52] God -[4420.52 --> 4420.82] Is -[4420.82 --> 4421.56] Creator -[4421.56 --> 4422.52] But -[4422.52 --> 4422.68] Not -[4422.68 --> 4423.02] Just -[4423.02 --> 4423.42] That -[4423.42 --> 4423.62] Right -[4423.62 --> 4423.78] The -[4423.78 --> 4424.14] Psalmist -[4424.14 --> 4424.48] Answers -[4424.48 --> 4424.64] The -[4424.64 --> 4425.06] Question -[4425.06 --> 4425.94] By -[4425.94 --> 4426.42] Saying -[4426.42 --> 4428.10] By -[4428.10 --> 4428.40] Calling -[4428.40 --> 4428.66] Him -[4428.66 --> 4429.26] Lord -[4429.26 --> 4429.92] Lord -[4429.92 --> 4430.30] Our -[4430.30 --> 4431.20] Lord -[4431.20 --> 4431.38] And -[4431.38 --> 4431.50] If -[4431.50 --> 4431.60] You -[4431.60 --> 4431.78] Have -[4431.78 --> 4432.12] Your -[4432.12 --> 4432.50] Bibles -[4432.50 --> 4432.96] Open -[4432.96 --> 4434.08] It's -[4434.08 --> 4434.46] Probably -[4434.46 --> 4435.16] Translated -[4435.16 --> 4435.44] In -[4435.44 --> 4435.66] All -[4435.66 --> 4436.20] Capitals -[4436.20 --> 4437.54] Right -[4437.54 --> 4437.82] Whenever -[4437.82 --> 4438.14] You're -[4438.14 --> 4438.24] In -[4438.24 --> 4438.34] The -[4438.34 --> 4438.50] Old -[4438.50 --> 4438.88] Testament -[4438.88 --> 4439.16] And -[4439.16 --> 4439.28] There's -[4439.28 --> 4439.38] A -[4439.38 --> 4439.80] Translation -[4439.80 --> 4440.04] From -[4440.04 --> 4440.18] The -[4440.18 --> 4440.44] Hebrew -[4440.44 --> 4440.76] And -[4440.76 --> 4440.88] You -[4440.88 --> 4441.06] See -[4441.06 --> 4441.22] The -[4441.22 --> 4441.38] Lord -[4441.38 --> 4442.54] Translated -[4442.54 --> 4442.80] In -[4442.80 --> 4443.06] All -[4443.06 --> 4443.46] Caps -[4443.46 --> 4444.24] It's -[4444.24 --> 4444.38] The -[4444.38 --> 4444.68] Hebrew -[4444.68 --> 4445.08] Word -[4445.08 --> 4445.78] Yahweh -[4445.78 --> 4446.80] Right -[4446.80 --> 4447.06] That's -[4447.06 --> 4447.22] The -[4447.22 --> 4447.54] Name -[4447.54 --> 4447.76] That -[4447.76 --> 4448.06] God -[4448.06 --> 4448.52] Revealed -[4448.52 --> 4448.86] Himself -[4448.86 --> 4449.32] To -[4449.32 --> 4449.56] In -[4449.56 --> 4449.86] Exodus -[4449.86 --> 4450.28] 3 -[4450.28 --> 4450.86] To -[4450.86 --> 4451.16] Moses -[4451.16 --> 4451.42] In -[4451.42 --> 4451.54] The -[4451.54 --> 4451.80] Story -[4451.80 --> 4451.94] Of -[4451.94 --> 4452.04] The -[4452.04 --> 4452.26] Burning -[4452.26 --> 4452.68] Bush -[4452.68 --> 4453.80] Moses -[4453.80 --> 4454.08] Says -[4454.08 --> 4454.28] Who -[4454.28 --> 4454.68] Should I -[4454.68 --> 4455.10] Say -[4455.10 --> 4455.60] Is -[4455.60 --> 4455.90] Sending -[4455.90 --> 4456.08] Me -[4456.08 --> 4456.24] To -[4456.24 --> 4456.36] The -[4456.36 --> 4456.72] People -[4456.72 --> 4457.28] And -[4457.28 --> 4457.54] God -[4457.54 --> 4457.94] Says -[4457.94 --> 4458.30] Tell -[4458.30 --> 4458.70] Them -[4458.70 --> 4459.26] I -[4459.26 --> 4459.32] I -[4459.32 --> 4459.34] I -[4459.34 --> 4459.36] I -[4459.36 --> 4459.70] I -[4459.70 --> 4461.30] I -[4461.30 --> 4461.62] I -[4461.62 --> 4463.36] I -[4463.36 --> 4463.88] Am -[4463.88 --> 4464.22] Who -[4464.22 --> 4464.62] I -[4464.62 --> 4465.06] Am -[4465.06 --> 4465.48] Which -[4465.48 --> 4465.74] Means -[4465.74 --> 4466.00] I -[4466.00 --> 4466.20] Will -[4466.20 --> 4466.42] Be -[4466.42 --> 4466.68] Who -[4466.68 --> 4466.90] I -[4466.90 --> 4467.12] Will -[4467.12 --> 4467.46] Be -[4467.46 --> 4467.72] I -[4467.72 --> 4468.02] Am -[4468.02 --> 4468.20] Who -[4468.20 --> 4468.36] I -[4468.36 --> 4468.76] Was -[4468.76 --> 4468.96] And -[4468.96 --> 4469.08] I -[4469.08 --> 4469.42] Was -[4469.42 --> 4469.68] Who -[4469.68 --> 4470.20] I -[4470.20 --> 4470.50] Am -[4470.50 --> 4470.74] Really -[4470.74 --> 4470.96] It's -[4470.96 --> 4471.50] A name -[4471.50 --> 4471.92] That -[4471.92 --> 4472.06] Is -[4472.06 --> 4472.28] Meant -[4472.28 --> 4472.48] For -[4472.48 --> 4472.76] Us -[4472.76 --> 4473.00] To -[4473.00 --> 4474.12] Understand -[4474.12 --> 4474.64] That -[4474.64 --> 4475.06] God -[4475.06 --> 4475.48] Is -[4475.48 --> 4476.66] Unchanging -[4476.66 --> 4477.36] And -[4477.36 --> 4478.10] Eternal -[4478.10 --> 4479.56] The -[4479.56 --> 4479.94] Truth -[4479.94 --> 4480.20] Of -[4480.20 --> 4480.80] Yahweh -[4480.80 --> 4481.58] Is -[4481.58 --> 4481.82] That -[4481.82 --> 4482.12] He -[4482.12 --> 4482.44] Is -[4482.44 --> 4482.82] Lord -[4482.82 --> 4483.06] Of -[4483.06 --> 4483.38] All -[4483.38 --> 4483.60] There -[4483.60 --> 4483.96] Is -[4483.96 --> 4484.18] And -[4484.18 --> 4484.50] As -[4484.50 --> 4484.84] Such -[4484.84 --> 4485.10] He -[4485.10 --> 4485.42] Is -[4485.42 --> 4485.66] In -[4485.66 --> 4486.26] Need -[4486.26 --> 4486.70] Of -[4486.70 --> 4487.60] Nothing -[4487.60 --> 4489.14] Now -[4489.14 --> 4489.38] In -[4489.38 --> 4489.96] Theology -[4489.96 --> 4491.22] We -[4491.22 --> 4491.48] Call -[4491.48 --> 4491.72] This -[4491.72 --> 4492.38] The -[4492.38 --> 4493.34] Immutability -[4493.34 --> 4493.68] Of -[4493.68 --> 4493.92] God -[4493.92 --> 4494.10] That -[4494.10 --> 4494.22] Is -[4494.22 --> 4494.36] His -[4494.36 --> 4494.94] Unchanging -[4494.94 --> 4495.36] And -[4495.36 --> 4495.50] We -[4495.50 --> 4495.70] Call -[4495.70 --> 4495.90] This -[4495.90 --> 4496.08] The -[4496.08 --> 4496.88] Aseity -[4496.88 --> 4497.68] Of -[4497.68 --> 4498.02] God -[4498.02 --> 4498.26] That -[4498.26 --> 4498.40] Is -[4498.40 --> 4499.22] He -[4499.22 --> 4499.42] Is -[4499.42 --> 4499.86] Self -[4499.86 --> 4500.46] Sufficient -[4500.46 --> 4500.82] I -[4500.82 --> 4501.24] Am -[4501.24 --> 4501.62] Who -[4501.62 --> 4501.84] I -[4501.84 --> 4502.14] Am -[4502.14 --> 4503.16] Right -[4503.16 --> 4503.28] And -[4503.28 --> 4503.68] Because -[4503.68 --> 4503.96] Of -[4503.96 --> 4504.16] Who -[4504.16 --> 4504.48] God -[4504.48 --> 4505.02] Is -[4505.02 --> 4505.28] He -[4505.28 --> 4505.56] Is -[4505.56 --> 4505.86] Most -[4505.86 --> 4506.46] Worthy -[4506.46 --> 4506.92] To -[4506.92 --> 4507.12] Be -[4507.12 --> 4507.62] Praised -[4507.62 --> 4508.30] Not -[4508.30 --> 4508.54] Because -[4508.54 --> 4508.72] He -[4508.72 --> 4509.04] Needs -[4509.04 --> 4509.28] It -[4509.28 --> 4509.94] But -[4509.94 --> 4510.18] Because -[4510.18 --> 4510.38] He's -[4510.38 --> 4510.86] Yahweh -[4510.86 --> 4512.46] As -[4512.46 --> 4512.82] One -[4512.82 --> 4513.30] Bible -[4513.30 --> 4513.68] Scholar -[4513.68 --> 4514.20] James -[4514.20 --> 4514.70] Mays -[4514.70 --> 4515.08] Says -[4515.08 --> 4515.22] He -[4515.22 --> 4515.40] Says -[4515.40 --> 4516.08] The -[4516.08 --> 4516.50] Content -[4516.50 --> 4517.22] Of -[4517.22 --> 4518.14] Name -[4518.14 --> 4518.60] Of -[4518.60 --> 4519.26] Yahweh -[4519.26 --> 4519.76] Is -[4519.76 --> 4519.94] The -[4519.94 --> 4520.34] Works -[4520.34 --> 4520.68] And -[4520.68 --> 4521.18] Words -[4521.18 --> 4521.38] Of -[4521.38 --> 4521.52] The -[4521.52 --> 4521.84] One -[4521.84 --> 4522.16] Whose -[4522.16 --> 4522.90] Identity -[4522.90 --> 4523.18] And -[4523.18 --> 4523.50] Will -[4523.50 --> 4523.80] Are -[4523.80 --> 4524.52] Expressed -[4524.52 --> 4525.22] Through -[4525.22 --> 4525.48] Them -[4525.48 --> 4526.86] The -[4526.86 --> 4527.20] Psalm -[4527.20 --> 4527.68] Sees -[4527.68 --> 4527.84] In -[4527.84 --> 4528.06] All -[4528.06 --> 4528.26] The -[4528.26 --> 4528.58] Earth -[4528.58 --> 4528.88] The -[4528.88 --> 4529.28] Works -[4529.28 --> 4529.82] Of -[4529.82 --> 4529.96] The -[4529.96 --> 4530.54] Word -[4530.54 --> 4530.78] Of -[4530.78 --> 4530.94] The -[4530.94 --> 4531.26] Lord -[4531.26 --> 4531.52] And -[4531.52 --> 4532.62] Views -[4532.62 --> 4532.80] The -[4532.80 --> 4533.06] Work -[4533.06 --> 4533.28] Of -[4533.28 --> 4533.40] The -[4533.40 --> 4533.66] Lord -[4533.66 --> 4533.92] As -[4533.92 --> 4534.12] The -[4534.12 --> 4534.58] Word -[4534.58 --> 4535.12] Of -[4535.12 --> 4535.40] The -[4535.40 --> 4535.86] Lord's -[4535.86 --> 4536.72] Sovereignty -[4536.72 --> 4538.88] The -[4538.88 --> 4539.28] Basic -[4539.28 --> 4539.96] Confession -[4539.96 --> 4540.22] Of -[4540.22 --> 4540.46] Verse -[4540.46 --> 4540.84] One -[4540.84 --> 4541.06] In -[4541.06 --> 4541.30] Psalm -[4541.30 --> 4541.56] Eight -[4541.56 --> 4542.72] Reveals -[4542.72 --> 4543.88] Christian -[4543.88 --> 4544.64] Theism -[4544.64 --> 4545.24] Right -[4545.24 --> 4545.68] Because -[4545.68 --> 4546.08] God -[4546.08 --> 4546.30] Is -[4546.30 --> 4546.58] Both -[4546.58 --> 4547.44] Transcendent -[4547.44 --> 4547.80] And -[4547.80 --> 4548.24] Imminent -[4548.24 --> 4548.44] That -[4548.44 --> 4548.62] He's -[4548.62 --> 4548.82] Both -[4548.82 --> 4549.44] Above -[4549.44 --> 4549.74] And -[4549.74 --> 4549.96] Has -[4549.96 --> 4550.42] Made -[4550.42 --> 4550.80] Himself -[4550.80 --> 4551.18] Known -[4551.18 --> 4551.62] Within -[4551.62 --> 4552.48] He's -[4552.48 --> 4552.74] Not -[4552.74 --> 4553.26] Only -[4553.26 --> 4554.28] Omnipotent -[4554.28 --> 4554.70] Right -[4554.70 --> 4554.82] That -[4554.82 --> 4554.94] Is -[4554.94 --> 4555.14] All -[4555.14 --> 4555.84] Powerful -[4555.84 --> 4556.36] And -[4556.36 --> 4557.04] Omniscient -[4557.04 --> 4557.20] That -[4557.20 --> 4557.32] Is -[4557.32 --> 4557.56] All -[4557.56 --> 4558.00] Knowing -[4558.00 --> 4558.24] But -[4558.24 --> 4558.48] He's -[4558.48 --> 4559.04] Also -[4559.04 --> 4559.64] Because -[4559.64 --> 4559.80] Of -[4559.80 --> 4559.98] That -[4559.98 --> 4560.80] Omnipresent -[4560.80 --> 4561.02] That -[4561.02 --> 4561.14] Is -[4561.14 --> 4561.50] He -[4561.50 --> 4561.70] Is -[4561.70 --> 4562.30] Everywhere -[4562.30 --> 4563.38] Present -[4563.38 --> 4563.70] He -[4563.70 --> 4563.98] Is -[4563.98 --> 4564.14] The -[4564.14 --> 4564.40] One -[4564.40 --> 4564.72] Who -[4564.72 --> 4565.84] Upholds -[4565.84 --> 4566.16] All -[4566.16 --> 4566.54] Things -[4566.54 --> 4566.84] Not -[4566.84 --> 4567.14] Just -[4567.14 --> 4567.48] From -[4567.48 --> 4567.88] Without -[4567.88 --> 4568.42] But -[4568.42 --> 4568.82] Also -[4568.82 --> 4569.52] From -[4569.52 --> 4569.88] Within -[4569.88 --> 4570.92] So -[4570.92 --> 4571.12] Who -[4571.12 --> 4571.38] Is -[4571.38 --> 4572.16] God -[4572.16 --> 4573.46] God -[4573.46 --> 4573.68] Is -[4573.68 --> 4574.82] Absolute -[4574.82 --> 4575.20] That -[4575.20 --> 4575.34] Is -[4575.34 --> 4575.48] He -[4575.48 --> 4575.78] Has -[4575.78 --> 4576.30] No -[4576.30 --> 4576.94] Rivals -[4576.94 --> 4577.20] There -[4577.20 --> 4577.34] Are -[4577.34 --> 4577.58] None -[4577.58 --> 4578.20] Like -[4578.20 --> 4578.44] Him -[4578.44 --> 4578.92] That's -[4578.92 --> 4579.06] The -[4579.06 --> 4579.24] Point -[4579.24 --> 4579.38] Of -[4579.38 --> 4579.48] The -[4579.48 --> 4579.70] Name -[4579.70 --> 4580.12] Lord -[4580.12 --> 4580.44] In -[4580.44 --> 4580.62] Verse -[4580.62 --> 4580.90] One -[4580.90 --> 4581.14] And -[4581.14 --> 4581.76] Verse -[4581.76 --> 4582.06] Nine -[4582.06 --> 4582.60] Yahweh -[4582.60 --> 4582.84] I -[4582.84 --> 4583.22] Am -[4583.22 --> 4583.72] Who -[4583.72 --> 4583.94] I -[4583.94 --> 4584.30] Am -[4584.30 --> 4584.56] He -[4584.56 --> 4585.24] Always -[4585.24 --> 4586.04] Was -[4586.04 --> 4586.24] He -[4586.24 --> 4586.58] Is -[4586.58 --> 4586.78] And -[4586.78 --> 4587.12] Always -[4587.12 --> 4587.66] Will -[4587.66 --> 4587.88] Be -[4587.88 --> 4588.08] And -[4588.08 --> 4588.28] So -[4588.28 --> 4588.70] Therefore -[4588.70 --> 4589.62] Everything -[4589.62 --> 4590.74] Depends -[4590.74 --> 4591.10] On -[4591.10 --> 4591.80] Him -[4591.80 --> 4592.02] And -[4592.02 --> 4592.34] He -[4592.34 --> 4592.88] Depends -[4592.88 --> 4593.10] On -[4593.10 --> 4593.36] No -[4593.36 --> 4593.64] One -[4593.64 --> 4593.86] Or -[4593.86 --> 4594.06] No -[4594.06 --> 4594.36] Thing -[4594.36 --> 4594.60] Again -[4594.60 --> 4595.04] That's -[4595.04 --> 4595.76] Immutability -[4595.76 --> 4596.38] And -[4596.38 --> 4596.88] Aseity -[4596.88 --> 4598.42] God -[4598.42 --> 4598.68] Is -[4598.68 --> 4599.72] Majestic -[4599.72 --> 4600.48] In -[4600.48 --> 4600.86] All -[4600.86 --> 4601.22] The -[4601.22 --> 4602.18] Earth -[4602.18 --> 4603.52] And -[4603.52 --> 4603.66] He -[4603.66 --> 4604.02] Means -[4604.02 --> 4604.24] To -[4604.24 --> 4604.42] Be -[4604.42 --> 4605.54] That's -[4605.54 --> 4605.64] The -[4605.64 --> 4605.86] Point -[4605.86 --> 4606.06] Of -[4606.06 --> 4606.52] Verse -[4606.52 --> 4606.76] One -[4606.76 --> 4606.96] And -[4606.96 --> 4607.18] Verse -[4607.18 --> 4607.46] Nine -[4607.46 --> 4607.68] Sort -[4607.68 --> 4608.02] Of -[4608.02 --> 4610.64] Encapsulating -[4610.64 --> 4611.96] Psalm -[4611.96 --> 4612.64] Eight -[4612.64 --> 4613.14] Right -[4613.14 --> 4613.32] These -[4613.32 --> 4613.42] Are -[4613.42 --> 4613.62] Not -[4613.62 --> 4613.88] Only -[4613.88 --> 4614.40] Statements -[4614.40 --> 4614.64] Of -[4614.64 --> 4615.08] Fact -[4615.08 --> 4615.78] Right -[4615.78 --> 4616.00] They're -[4616.00 --> 4616.44] Also -[4616.44 --> 4617.58] Acclamations -[4617.58 --> 4618.62] Right -[4618.62 --> 4618.80] When -[4618.80 --> 4619.10] Someone -[4619.10 --> 4619.58] Says -[4619.58 --> 4619.94] How -[4619.94 --> 4620.58] Majestic -[4620.58 --> 4621.20] Is -[4621.20 --> 4621.38] Your -[4621.38 --> 4621.70] Name -[4621.70 --> 4621.92] The -[4621.92 --> 4622.26] Name -[4622.26 --> 4622.50] Is -[4622.50 --> 4622.82] Being -[4622.82 --> 4623.50] Praised -[4623.50 --> 4624.00] Not -[4624.00 --> 4624.28] Just -[4624.28 --> 4624.98] Described -[4624.98 --> 4626.24] The -[4626.24 --> 4626.48] Point -[4626.48 --> 4626.60] Of -[4626.60 --> 4626.78] This -[4626.78 --> 4627.00] Psalm -[4627.00 --> 4627.16] Is -[4627.16 --> 4627.40] Not -[4627.40 --> 4627.72] Just -[4627.72 --> 4627.96] That -[4627.96 --> 4628.84] God -[4628.84 --> 4629.32] Is -[4629.32 --> 4630.00] Majestic -[4630.00 --> 4630.68] But -[4630.68 --> 4630.84] That -[4630.84 --> 4630.96] He -[4630.96 --> 4631.18] Should -[4631.18 --> 4631.36] Be -[4631.36 --> 4632.22] Known -[4632.22 --> 4632.82] And -[4632.82 --> 4633.68] Praised -[4633.68 --> 4634.26] As -[4634.26 --> 4634.84] Majestic -[4634.84 --> 4636.02] That's -[4636.02 --> 4636.20] Why -[4636.20 --> 4636.40] He -[4636.40 --> 4637.08] Created -[4637.08 --> 4637.52] The -[4637.52 --> 4637.78] Earth -[4637.78 --> 4637.96] And -[4637.96 --> 4638.12] Why -[4638.12 --> 4638.28] He -[4638.28 --> 4638.46] Put -[4638.46 --> 4638.82] People -[4638.82 --> 4639.08] With -[4639.08 --> 4639.64] Minds -[4639.64 --> 4639.98] And -[4639.98 --> 4640.38] Hearts -[4640.38 --> 4641.02] On -[4641.02 --> 4641.22] It -[4641.22 --> 4642.00] Right -[4642.00 --> 4642.18] To -[4642.18 --> 4642.56] Know -[4642.56 --> 4642.88] And -[4642.88 --> 4643.44] Praise -[4643.44 --> 4644.08] His -[4644.08 --> 4645.08] Majesty -[4645.08 --> 4645.52] This -[4645.52 --> 4645.82] Is -[4645.82 --> 4646.12] Our -[4646.12 --> 4646.48] Great -[4646.48 --> 4646.88] Joy -[4646.88 --> 4647.12] To -[4647.12 --> 4647.56] See -[4647.56 --> 4647.88] And -[4647.88 --> 4648.08] To -[4648.08 --> 4648.58] Savor -[4648.58 --> 4649.46] God's -[4649.46 --> 4650.28] Majesty -[4650.28 --> 4654.08] Which -[4654.08 --> 4654.26] Of -[4654.26 --> 4654.66] Course -[4654.66 --> 4656.64] Gets -[4656.64 --> 4656.78] Us -[4656.78 --> 4656.90] In -[4656.90 --> 4657.00] The -[4657.00 --> 4657.42] Direction -[4657.42 --> 4657.60] Of -[4657.60 --> 4658.14] Answering -[4658.14 --> 4658.78] The -[4658.78 --> 4659.06] Second -[4659.06 --> 4660.16] Question -[4660.16 --> 4661.10] Who -[4661.10 --> 4661.28] Am -[4661.28 --> 4661.56] I -[4661.56 --> 4662.30] Right -[4662.30 --> 4662.44] If -[4662.44 --> 4662.68] This -[4662.68 --> 4662.90] Is -[4662.90 --> 4663.28] God -[4663.28 --> 4664.08] Majestic -[4664.08 --> 4664.56] And -[4664.56 --> 4665.10] Creator -[4665.10 --> 4666.32] Unchanging -[4666.32 --> 4666.80] Self -[4666.80 --> 4667.30] Sufficient -[4667.30 --> 4667.56] And -[4667.56 --> 4668.12] Independent -[4668.12 --> 4669.48] Omnipotent -[4669.48 --> 4670.22] Omniscient -[4670.22 --> 4670.40] And -[4670.40 --> 4671.14] Omnipresent -[4671.14 --> 4672.08] Worthy -[4672.08 --> 4672.28] Of -[4672.28 --> 4672.72] Praise -[4672.72 --> 4672.96] And -[4672.96 --> 4673.24] Glory -[4673.24 --> 4673.46] If -[4673.46 --> 4673.64] This -[4673.64 --> 4673.78] Is -[4673.78 --> 4674.10] God -[4674.10 --> 4674.86] Victorious -[4674.86 --> 4675.50] Above -[4675.50 --> 4675.88] Even -[4675.88 --> 4676.12] The -[4676.12 --> 4676.42] Moon -[4676.42 --> 4676.64] And -[4676.64 --> 4676.78] The -[4676.78 --> 4677.16] Stars -[4677.16 --> 4677.76] Who -[4677.76 --> 4677.96] Am -[4677.96 --> 4678.42] I -[4678.42 --> 4678.74] In -[4678.74 --> 4679.30] Relation -[4679.30 --> 4679.96] To -[4679.96 --> 4680.16] Him -[4680.16 --> 4680.98] If -[4680.98 --> 4681.20] This -[4681.20 --> 4681.38] Is -[4681.38 --> 4681.84] God -[4681.84 --> 4682.44] What -[4682.44 --> 4682.74] Is -[4682.74 --> 4683.30] Man -[4683.30 --> 4683.78] Who -[4683.78 --> 4684.00] Am -[4684.00 --> 4684.26] I -[4684.26 --> 4684.44] Or -[4684.44 --> 4684.60] Who -[4684.60 --> 4684.76] Are -[4684.76 --> 4685.02] You -[4685.02 --> 4685.24] Or -[4685.24 --> 4685.36] Who -[4685.36 --> 4685.50] Are -[4685.50 --> 4685.78] You -[4685.78 --> 4686.02] Or -[4686.02 --> 4686.14] Who -[4686.14 --> 4686.28] Are -[4686.28 --> 4686.60] You -[4686.60 --> 4687.14] Who -[4687.14 --> 4687.28] Are -[4687.28 --> 4687.58] You -[4687.58 --> 4687.86] That -[4687.86 --> 4688.20] You -[4688.20 --> 4688.56] Are -[4688.56 --> 4689.42] Mindful -[4689.42 --> 4690.38] To -[4690.38 --> 4690.60] Him -[4690.60 --> 4693.22] Now -[4693.22 --> 4693.34] For -[4693.34 --> 4693.42] A -[4693.42 --> 4693.54] Really -[4693.54 --> 4693.70] Long -[4693.70 --> 4694.00] Time -[4694.00 --> 4694.16] When -[4694.16 --> 4694.30] I -[4694.30 --> 4695.24] First -[4695.24 --> 4695.62] Read -[4695.62 --> 4695.90] This -[4695.90 --> 4696.26] Psalm -[4696.26 --> 4697.48] Right -[4697.48 --> 4698.14] We -[4698.14 --> 4698.30] Would -[4698.30 --> 4698.72] If -[4698.72 --> 4698.86] I -[4698.86 --> 4699.66] If -[4699.66 --> 4699.80] We -[4699.80 --> 4700.20] Stop -[4700.20 --> 4700.46] At -[4700.46 --> 4700.70] Verse -[4700.70 --> 4701.10] Four -[4701.10 --> 4702.52] And -[4702.52 --> 4702.66] Even -[4702.66 --> 4702.80] If -[4702.80 --> 4702.92] We -[4702.92 --> 4703.06] Keep -[4703.06 --> 4703.38] Going -[4703.38 --> 4703.58] It -[4703.58 --> 4704.22] It's -[4704.22 --> 4704.44] Really -[4704.44 --> 4704.80] Easy -[4704.80 --> 4705.02] For -[4705.02 --> 4705.22] Us -[4705.22 --> 4705.42] To -[4705.42 --> 4706.46] To -[4706.46 --> 4707.22] Read -[4707.22 --> 4707.50] Verse -[4707.50 --> 4707.82] Four -[4707.82 --> 4708.32] Almost -[4708.32 --> 4708.56] With -[4708.56 --> 4708.72] A -[4708.72 --> 4708.96] Sense -[4708.96 --> 4709.16] Of -[4709.16 --> 4709.42] Like -[4709.42 --> 4710.98] Sarcasm -[4710.98 --> 4712.08] Right -[4712.08 --> 4712.22] Like -[4712.22 --> 4712.44] What -[4712.44 --> 4712.60] Is -[4712.60 --> 4713.12] Man -[4713.12 --> 4713.32] That -[4713.32 --> 4713.48] You -[4713.48 --> 4713.62] Are -[4713.62 --> 4714.18] Mindful -[4714.18 --> 4714.34] Of -[4714.34 --> 4714.54] Him -[4714.54 --> 4716.14] Right -[4716.14 --> 4716.36] You -[4716.36 --> 4716.52] Are -[4716.52 --> 4716.92] God -[4716.92 --> 4717.18] What -[4717.18 --> 4717.34] A -[4717.34 --> 4717.78] Wretch -[4717.78 --> 4718.08] Am -[4718.08 --> 4718.38] I -[4718.38 --> 4719.18] You -[4719.18 --> 4719.36] Are -[4719.36 --> 4719.72] God -[4719.72 --> 4719.98] I -[4719.98 --> 4720.14] Am -[4720.14 --> 4720.40] Not -[4720.40 --> 4720.60] What -[4720.60 --> 4720.76] A -[4720.76 --> 4721.28] Lowly -[4721.28 --> 4721.84] Being -[4721.84 --> 4722.32] Am -[4722.32 --> 4722.52] I -[4722.52 --> 4722.70] I -[4722.70 --> 4722.84] Am -[4722.84 --> 4723.18] Nothing -[4723.18 --> 4723.44] I -[4723.44 --> 4723.60] Am -[4723.60 --> 4723.92] Weak -[4723.92 --> 4724.18] I -[4724.18 --> 4724.36] Am -[4724.36 --> 4725.36] Worthless -[4725.36 --> 4725.54] But -[4725.54 --> 4725.76] That's -[4725.76 --> 4726.18] Not -[4726.18 --> 4726.38] The -[4726.38 --> 4726.80] Tone -[4726.80 --> 4727.02] Of -[4727.02 --> 4727.36] Psalm -[4727.36 --> 4727.70] 8 -[4727.70 --> 4728.26] That's -[4728.26 --> 4728.42] Not -[4728.42 --> 4728.56] Where -[4728.56 --> 4728.86] Psalm -[4728.86 --> 4729.06] 8 -[4729.06 --> 4729.44] Leaves -[4729.44 --> 4729.66] Us -[4729.66 --> 4729.90] That's -[4729.90 --> 4730.02] Not -[4730.02 --> 4730.16] Where -[4730.16 --> 4730.58] God -[4730.58 --> 4731.24] Leaves -[4731.24 --> 4731.64] Us -[4731.64 --> 4732.24] What -[4732.24 --> 4732.40] Is -[4732.40 --> 4732.70] Man -[4732.70 --> 4732.84] That -[4732.84 --> 4732.96] You -[4732.96 --> 4733.08] Are -[4733.08 --> 4733.54] Mindful -[4733.54 --> 4733.70] Of -[4733.70 --> 4733.94] Him -[4733.94 --> 4734.24] Who -[4734.24 --> 4734.46] Am -[4734.46 --> 4734.78] I -[4734.78 --> 4735.24] Well -[4735.24 --> 4735.78] I -[4735.78 --> 4736.02] Am -[4736.02 --> 4736.30] Made -[4736.30 --> 4736.50] A -[4736.50 --> 4736.68] Little -[4736.68 --> 4737.08] Lower -[4737.08 --> 4737.28] Than -[4737.28 --> 4737.46] The -[4737.46 --> 4737.78] Heavenly -[4737.78 --> 4738.36] Beings -[4738.36 --> 4738.60] And -[4738.60 --> 4739.28] Crowned -[4739.28 --> 4739.78] With -[4739.78 --> 4740.34] Glory -[4740.34 --> 4740.92] And -[4740.92 --> 4741.28] Honor -[4741.28 --> 4742.30] Who -[4742.30 --> 4742.50] Am -[4742.50 --> 4742.74] I -[4742.74 --> 4742.90] Well -[4742.90 --> 4743.14] You -[4743.14 --> 4743.52] Are -[4743.52 --> 4744.04] Made -[4744.04 --> 4744.78] Ruler -[4744.78 --> 4745.14] Over -[4745.14 --> 4745.34] The -[4745.34 --> 4745.72] Works -[4745.72 --> 4745.98] Of -[4745.98 --> 4746.34] God's -[4746.34 --> 4746.82] Hands -[4746.82 --> 4747.30] And -[4747.30 --> 4748.04] Everything -[4748.04 --> 4748.44] Has -[4748.44 --> 4748.60] Been -[4748.60 --> 4748.90] Put -[4748.90 --> 4749.46] Under -[4749.46 --> 4749.68] Your -[4749.68 --> 4750.04] Feet -[4750.04 --> 4751.14] God's -[4751.14 --> 4751.66] Promise -[4751.66 --> 4751.96] To -[4751.96 --> 4752.32] You -[4752.32 --> 4752.62] Is -[4752.62 --> 4752.80] That -[4752.80 --> 4753.12] You -[4753.12 --> 4753.44] Are -[4753.44 --> 4754.10] Crowned -[4754.10 --> 4754.38] With -[4754.38 --> 4754.96] Glory -[4754.96 --> 4756.02] And -[4756.02 --> 4756.34] Honor -[4756.34 --> 4758.18] This -[4758.18 --> 4758.56] Is -[4758.56 --> 4758.88] Our -[4758.88 --> 4759.20] God -[4759.20 --> 4759.42] How -[4759.42 --> 4760.06] Majestic -[4760.06 --> 4760.78] Is -[4760.78 --> 4761.02] His -[4761.02 --> 4761.30] Name -[4761.30 --> 4761.68] And -[4761.68 --> 4761.98] He -[4761.98 --> 4762.32] Has -[4762.32 --> 4762.74] Set -[4762.74 --> 4763.42] His -[4763.42 --> 4763.92] Glory -[4763.92 --> 4764.30] Above -[4764.30 --> 4764.52] The -[4764.52 --> 4764.90] Heavens -[4764.90 --> 4765.12] He -[4765.12 --> 4765.44] Has -[4765.44 --> 4765.74] Made -[4765.74 --> 4765.96] The -[4765.96 --> 4766.32] Sun -[4766.32 --> 4766.74] And -[4766.74 --> 4766.88] The -[4766.88 --> 4767.26] Moon -[4767.26 --> 4767.62] And -[4767.62 --> 4767.76] The -[4767.76 --> 4768.14] Stars -[4768.14 --> 4768.40] And -[4768.40 --> 4768.60] Set -[4768.60 --> 4768.76] Them -[4768.76 --> 4768.90] In -[4768.90 --> 4769.20] Place -[4769.20 --> 4769.64] And -[4769.64 --> 4770.04] He -[4770.04 --> 4770.64] Wants -[4770.64 --> 4772.02] Relationship -[4772.02 --> 4772.98] With -[4772.98 --> 4773.18] You -[4773.18 --> 4775.96] How -[4775.96 --> 4776.14] Does -[4776.14 --> 4776.30] That -[4776.30 --> 4776.70] Impact -[4776.70 --> 4777.00] Our -[4777.00 --> 4777.74] Identity -[4777.74 --> 4778.34] How -[4778.34 --> 4778.48] Does -[4778.48 --> 4778.60] That -[4778.60 --> 4778.94] Impact -[4778.94 --> 4779.18] Our -[4779.18 --> 4779.90] Humanity -[4779.90 --> 4780.80] Who -[4780.80 --> 4781.04] Am -[4781.04 --> 4781.18] I -[4781.18 --> 4781.34] Well -[4781.34 --> 4781.46] I -[4781.46 --> 4781.60] Am -[4781.60 --> 4782.26] Created -[4782.26 --> 4782.68] In -[4782.68 --> 4782.86] The -[4782.86 --> 4783.34] Image -[4783.34 --> 4783.98] Of -[4783.98 --> 4784.78] God -[4784.78 --> 4785.70] And -[4785.70 --> 4785.78] I -[4785.78 --> 4785.90] Am -[4785.90 --> 4786.68] Recreated -[4786.68 --> 4786.96] By -[4786.96 --> 4787.30] Grace -[4787.30 --> 4787.56] Through -[4787.56 --> 4787.90] Faith -[4787.90 --> 4788.24] Into -[4788.24 --> 4788.44] The -[4788.44 --> 4788.78] Image -[4788.78 --> 4788.96] Of -[4788.96 --> 4789.26] Jesus -[4789.26 --> 4789.84] Christ -[4789.84 --> 4790.90] Who -[4790.90 --> 4791.08] Am -[4791.08 --> 4791.28] I -[4791.28 --> 4791.46] I -[4791.46 --> 4791.60] Am -[4791.60 --> 4792.14] Crowned -[4792.14 --> 4792.36] With -[4792.36 --> 4792.90] Glory -[4792.90 --> 4793.52] And -[4793.52 --> 4793.86] Honor -[4793.86 --> 4794.76] I -[4794.76 --> 4794.92] Am -[4794.92 --> 4795.40] Ruler -[4795.40 --> 4795.66] Of -[4795.66 --> 4795.80] The -[4795.80 --> 4796.12] Works -[4796.12 --> 4796.36] Of -[4796.36 --> 4796.68] God's -[4796.68 --> 4796.90] Hands -[4796.90 --> 4797.50] This -[4797.50 --> 4798.00] Is -[4798.00 --> 4798.18] The -[4798.18 --> 4798.70] Truth -[4798.70 --> 4799.12] That -[4799.12 --> 4799.44] Comes -[4799.44 --> 4799.66] From -[4799.66 --> 4800.40] Understanding -[4800.40 --> 4800.76] The -[4800.76 --> 4801.12] First -[4801.12 --> 4801.82] Question -[4801.82 --> 4802.54] Who -[4802.54 --> 4802.78] Is -[4802.78 --> 4803.14] God -[4803.14 --> 4803.32] And -[4803.32 --> 4803.98] Answering -[4803.98 --> 4804.16] It -[4804.16 --> 4805.28] Correctly -[4805.28 --> 4806.72] Who -[4806.72 --> 4806.92] Is -[4806.92 --> 4807.22] God -[4807.22 --> 4807.70] Answered -[4807.70 --> 4807.84] By -[4807.84 --> 4807.98] The -[4807.98 --> 4808.28] Bible -[4808.28 --> 4808.78] Leads -[4808.78 --> 4808.98] To -[4808.98 --> 4809.16] A -[4809.16 --> 4809.40] View -[4809.40 --> 4809.70] Of -[4809.70 --> 4810.36] Humanity -[4810.36 --> 4810.56] That -[4810.56 --> 4810.68] Is -[4810.68 --> 4811.42] High -[4811.42 --> 4811.82] And -[4811.82 --> 4812.46] Strong -[4812.46 --> 4812.76] And -[4812.76 --> 4813.06] More -[4813.06 --> 4813.54] Love -[4813.54 --> 4814.08] Filled -[4814.08 --> 4814.52] Than -[4814.52 --> 4814.90] Any -[4814.90 --> 4815.16] Other -[4815.16 --> 4815.58] Answer -[4815.58 --> 4817.38] Seeing -[4817.38 --> 4817.68] The -[4817.68 --> 4817.94] God -[4817.94 --> 4818.06] Of -[4818.06 --> 4818.16] The -[4818.16 --> 4818.48] Bible -[4818.48 --> 4818.94] Helps -[4818.94 --> 4819.22] Me -[4819.22 --> 4819.44] To -[4819.44 --> 4819.90] See -[4819.90 --> 4820.54] Me -[4820.54 --> 4821.56] Seeing -[4821.56 --> 4821.76] The -[4821.76 --> 4821.96] God -[4821.96 --> 4822.06] Of -[4822.06 --> 4822.16] The -[4822.16 --> 4822.46] Bible -[4822.46 --> 4822.78] Helps -[4822.78 --> 4822.94] Me -[4822.94 --> 4823.14] To -[4823.14 --> 4823.48] See -[4823.48 --> 4824.16] You -[4824.16 --> 4824.78] For -[4824.78 --> 4824.96] Who -[4824.96 --> 4825.20] You -[4825.20 --> 4825.62] Are -[4825.62 --> 4828.60] In -[4828.60 --> 4828.70] The -[4828.70 --> 4828.98] Final -[4828.98 --> 4830.04] Assessment -[4830.04 --> 4830.32] It -[4830.32 --> 4830.46] It -[4830.46 --> 4830.52] Is -[4830.52 --> 4830.82] Only -[4830.82 --> 4831.38] From -[4831.38 --> 4831.66] The -[4831.66 --> 4831.98] God -[4831.98 --> 4832.20] Of -[4832.20 --> 4832.32] The -[4832.32 --> 4832.70] Bible -[4832.70 --> 4833.42] That -[4833.42 --> 4833.66] So -[4833.66 --> 4834.00] Many -[4834.00 --> 4834.52] Of -[4834.52 --> 4834.68] Our -[4834.68 --> 4835.80] Culturally -[4835.80 --> 4836.56] Accepted -[4836.56 --> 4837.12] Norms -[4837.12 --> 4837.28] And -[4837.28 --> 4837.86] Ideas -[4837.86 --> 4838.12] About -[4838.12 --> 4838.30] What -[4838.30 --> 4838.40] It -[4838.40 --> 4838.62] Means -[4838.62 --> 4838.78] To -[4838.78 --> 4838.90] Be -[4838.90 --> 4839.24] Human -[4839.24 --> 4839.76] Actually -[4839.76 --> 4840.14] Begin -[4840.14 --> 4840.32] To -[4840.32 --> 4840.52] Make -[4840.52 --> 4840.90] Sense -[4840.90 --> 4842.40] Right -[4842.40 --> 4842.54] So -[4842.54 --> 4842.72] For -[4842.72 --> 4843.08] Instance -[4843.08 --> 4843.72] Universal -[4843.72 --> 4844.18] Human -[4844.18 --> 4844.66] Rights -[4844.66 --> 4845.56] Right -[4845.56 --> 4845.96] Based -[4845.96 --> 4846.18] On -[4846.18 --> 4846.32] A -[4846.32 --> 4846.80] Universal -[4846.80 --> 4847.24] Human -[4847.24 --> 4847.84] Dignity -[4847.84 --> 4849.26] Is -[4849.26 --> 4849.42] A -[4849.42 --> 4849.76] Christian -[4849.76 --> 4850.26] Idea -[4850.26 --> 4852.60] Right -[4852.60 --> 4852.76] And -[4852.76 --> 4853.04] When -[4853.04 --> 4853.16] That -[4853.16 --> 4853.30] Was -[4853.30 --> 4853.62] First -[4853.62 --> 4854.24] Introduced -[4854.24 --> 4854.54] Into -[4854.54 --> 4854.74] The -[4854.74 --> 4854.94] Roman -[4854.94 --> 4855.34] World -[4855.34 --> 4856.08] It -[4856.08 --> 4856.30] Made -[4856.30 --> 4856.84] Zero -[4856.84 --> 4857.40] Sense -[4857.40 --> 4858.28] To -[4858.28 --> 4858.72] Anybody -[4858.72 --> 4859.00] In -[4859.00 --> 4859.48] Society -[4859.48 --> 4860.96] But -[4860.96 --> 4861.12] Now -[4861.12 --> 4861.28] We -[4861.28 --> 4861.50] Take -[4861.50 --> 4861.60] It -[4861.60 --> 4861.76] For -[4861.76 --> 4862.10] Granted -[4862.10 --> 4863.32] And -[4863.32 --> 4863.44] Yet -[4863.44 --> 4863.54] We -[4863.54 --> 4863.82] Also -[4863.82 --> 4864.10] Tried -[4864.10 --> 4864.26] To -[4864.26 --> 4864.72] Divorce -[4864.72 --> 4864.92] It -[4864.92 --> 4865.66] From -[4865.66 --> 4865.78] The -[4865.78 --> 4865.98] God -[4865.98 --> 4866.10] Who -[4866.10 --> 4866.52] Created -[4866.52 --> 4866.72] Us -[4866.72 --> 4866.86] In -[4866.86 --> 4867.02] It -[4867.02 --> 4868.40] Right -[4868.40 --> 4868.56] In -[4868.56 --> 4868.92] A -[4868.92 --> 4869.68] Secularist -[4869.68 --> 4870.16] Frame -[4870.16 --> 4870.90] Universal -[4870.90 --> 4871.28] Human -[4871.28 --> 4871.74] Dignity -[4871.74 --> 4872.24] Doesn't -[4872.24 --> 4872.52] Make -[4872.52 --> 4873.20] Sense -[4873.20 --> 4875.40] Right -[4875.40 --> 4875.58] And -[4875.58 --> 4875.90] Another -[4875.90 --> 4876.08] One -[4876.08 --> 4876.48] The -[4876.48 --> 4877.28] Separation -[4877.28 --> 4877.44] Of -[4877.44 --> 4877.72] Church -[4877.72 --> 4877.86] And -[4877.86 --> 4878.18] State -[4878.18 --> 4878.44] Which -[4878.44 --> 4878.56] Is -[4878.56 --> 4878.80] Again -[4878.80 --> 4879.14] Something -[4879.14 --> 4879.44] That -[4879.44 --> 4879.60] We -[4879.60 --> 4879.86] Take -[4879.86 --> 4880.04] For -[4880.04 --> 4880.42] Granted -[4880.42 --> 4880.80] In -[4880.80 --> 4880.98] Our -[4880.98 --> 4881.64] Western -[4881.64 --> 4882.32] Society -[4882.32 --> 4882.98] Right -[4882.98 --> 4883.12] The -[4883.12 --> 4883.40] Idea -[4883.40 --> 4883.56] Is -[4883.56 --> 4883.70] To -[4885.34 --> 4886.80] The -[4886.80 --> 4887.34] The -[4887.34 --> 4887.92] The -[4887.92 --> 4888.08] The -[4888.08 --> 4888.52] Church -[4888.52 --> 4889.66] That's -[4889.66 --> 4889.82] A -[4889.82 --> 4890.44] Christian -[4890.44 --> 4891.50] Idea -[4891.50 --> 4892.98] About -[4892.98 --> 4893.18] Who -[4893.18 --> 4893.38] We -[4893.38 --> 4893.56] Are -[4893.56 --> 4894.16] Created -[4894.16 --> 4894.68] To -[4894.68 --> 4894.96] Be -[4894.96 --> 4896.58] Right -[4896.58 --> 4896.70] The -[4896.70 --> 4897.04] Ideas -[4897.04 --> 4897.18] Of -[4897.18 --> 4897.44] Freedom -[4897.44 --> 4897.62] Of -[4897.62 --> 4898.06] Speech -[4898.06 --> 4898.42] Of -[4898.42 --> 4898.82] Religion -[4898.82 --> 4899.16] Even -[4899.16 --> 4899.48] Freedom -[4899.48 --> 4899.62] Of -[4899.62 --> 4899.74] The -[4899.74 --> 4900.16] Press -[4900.16 --> 4900.68] Right -[4900.68 --> 4900.86] Are -[4900.86 --> 4901.14] All -[4901.14 --> 4901.54] Rooted -[4901.54 --> 4901.76] In -[4901.76 --> 4901.90] A -[4901.90 --> 4902.30] Christian -[4902.30 --> 4903.10] Theology -[4903.10 --> 4903.76] Of -[4903.76 --> 4904.00] Who -[4904.00 --> 4904.32] God -[4904.32 --> 4904.78] Is -[4904.78 --> 4905.00] And -[4905.00 --> 4905.28] Who -[4905.28 --> 4905.58] We -[4905.58 --> 4905.98] Are -[4905.98 --> 4906.48] As -[4906.48 --> 4906.94] Created -[4906.94 --> 4907.08] In -[4907.08 --> 4907.24] His -[4907.24 --> 4907.58] Image -[4907.58 --> 4908.64] But -[4908.64 --> 4908.84] Who -[4908.84 --> 4909.14] God -[4909.14 --> 4909.44] Is -[4909.44 --> 4909.62] And -[4909.62 --> 4909.96] How -[4909.96 --> 4910.22] We -[4910.22 --> 4910.42] Are -[4910.42 --> 4910.64] To -[4910.64 --> 4911.06] Live -[4911.06 --> 4911.30] As -[4911.30 --> 4911.52] His -[4911.52 --> 4911.96] Image -[4911.96 --> 4912.60] Bearers -[4912.60 --> 4913.44] Together -[4913.44 --> 4915.84] Who -[4915.84 --> 4916.34] Am -[4916.34 --> 4917.04] I -[4917.04 --> 4918.62] The -[4918.62 --> 4918.80] Answer -[4918.80 --> 4918.94] To -[4918.94 --> 4919.06] That -[4919.06 --> 4919.36] Question -[4919.36 --> 4919.54] Is -[4919.54 --> 4919.68] That -[4919.68 --> 4920.02] I -[4920.02 --> 4920.80] Belong -[4920.80 --> 4921.40] To -[4921.40 --> 4921.78] God -[4921.78 --> 4923.48] I -[4923.48 --> 4923.94] Am -[4923.94 --> 4924.68] His -[4924.68 --> 4927.18] Now -[4927.18 --> 4929.02] We'll -[4929.02 --> 4929.20] End -[4929.20 --> 4929.50] Here -[4929.50 --> 4930.94] Because -[4930.94 --> 4932.28] We -[4932.28 --> 4932.48] Can -[4932.48 --> 4932.66] In -[4932.66 --> 4932.80] The -[4932.80 --> 4933.10] Final -[4933.10 --> 4934.14] Analysis -[4934.14 --> 4934.76] Know -[4934.76 --> 4935.18] This -[4935.18 --> 4935.46] To -[4935.46 --> 4935.68] Be -[4935.68 --> 4936.14] True -[4936.14 --> 4937.70] Because -[4937.70 --> 4937.88] Of -[4937.88 --> 4938.02] What -[4938.02 --> 4938.22] God -[4938.22 --> 4938.40] Has -[4938.40 --> 4938.64] Done -[4938.64 --> 4939.76] You -[4939.76 --> 4939.84] See -[4939.84 --> 4939.98] The -[4939.98 --> 4940.28] Best -[4940.28 --> 4940.96] Argument -[4940.96 --> 4941.30] For -[4941.30 --> 4942.14] God's -[4942.14 --> 4942.64] Love -[4942.64 --> 4942.90] Of -[4942.90 --> 4943.64] Humanity -[4943.64 --> 4943.96] For -[4943.96 --> 4944.32] God's -[4944.32 --> 4944.64] Love -[4944.64 --> 4944.88] Of -[4944.88 --> 4945.42] Creation -[4945.42 --> 4946.00] For -[4946.00 --> 4946.20] The -[4946.20 --> 4946.90] Worthiness -[4946.90 --> 4947.16] That -[4947.16 --> 4947.32] He -[4947.32 --> 4947.84] Sees -[4947.84 --> 4948.06] In -[4948.06 --> 4948.40] You -[4948.40 --> 4948.86] And -[4948.86 --> 4949.02] In -[4949.02 --> 4949.34] Me -[4949.34 --> 4949.84] Is -[4949.84 --> 4950.04] That -[4950.04 --> 4950.40] God -[4950.40 --> 4951.14] Himself -[4951.14 --> 4952.22] Became -[4952.22 --> 4952.88] Human -[4952.88 --> 4953.58] Like -[4953.58 --> 4954.26] Us -[4954.26 --> 4955.56] In -[4955.56 --> 4955.70] Fact -[4955.70 --> 4956.22] Psalm -[4956.22 --> 4956.64] 8 -[4956.64 --> 4956.96] In -[4956.96 --> 4957.12] The -[4957.12 --> 4957.52] Jewish -[4957.52 --> 4958.64] Tradition -[4958.64 --> 4959.88] Became -[4959.88 --> 4960.36] Known -[4960.36 --> 4960.94] As -[4960.94 --> 4961.12] A -[4961.12 --> 4961.90] Messianic -[4961.90 --> 4962.26] Psalm -[4962.26 --> 4962.90] That -[4962.90 --> 4963.04] Is -[4963.04 --> 4963.22] It's -[4963.22 --> 4963.60] A -[4963.60 --> 4964.42] Psalm -[4964.42 --> 4964.76] That -[4964.76 --> 4965.86] Prophesies -[4965.86 --> 4966.34] And -[4966.34 --> 4967.16] Anticipates -[4967.16 --> 4967.36] The -[4967.36 --> 4967.74] Coming -[4967.74 --> 4968.64] Messiah -[4968.64 --> 4969.64] Teaches -[4969.64 --> 4969.98] Us -[4969.98 --> 4970.62] About -[4970.62 --> 4970.78] The -[4970.78 --> 4971.14] Messiah -[4971.14 --> 4971.30] And -[4971.30 --> 4971.44] As -[4971.44 --> 4971.80] Christians -[4971.80 --> 4972.14] We -[4972.14 --> 4972.46] Know -[4972.46 --> 4972.70] The -[4972.70 --> 4973.16] Messiah -[4973.16 --> 4973.84] To -[4973.84 --> 4974.38] Have -[4974.38 --> 4974.82] Been -[4974.82 --> 4975.16] In -[4975.16 --> 4975.72] History -[4975.72 --> 4976.36] And -[4976.36 --> 4976.62] Still -[4976.62 --> 4977.10] Today -[4977.10 --> 4977.96] Jesus -[4977.96 --> 4979.36] Right -[4979.36 --> 4979.64] All -[4979.64 --> 4979.78] Of -[4979.78 --> 4979.96] These -[4979.96 --> 4980.36] Questions -[4980.36 --> 4980.74] Lead -[4980.74 --> 4980.90] To -[4980.90 --> 4981.06] The -[4981.06 --> 4981.40] Final -[4981.40 --> 4982.20] Realization -[4982.20 --> 4982.44] That -[4982.44 --> 4983.00] We -[4983.00 --> 4983.46] Need -[4983.46 --> 4984.00] Someone -[4984.00 --> 4984.70] To -[4984.70 --> 4985.12] Show -[4985.12 --> 4985.56] Us -[4985.56 --> 4985.82] Who -[4985.82 --> 4986.24] God -[4986.24 --> 4986.92] Is -[4986.92 --> 4987.12] And -[4987.12 --> 4987.28] What -[4987.28 --> 4987.40] It -[4987.40 --> 4987.70] Means -[4987.70 --> 4987.92] To -[4987.92 --> 4988.16] Be -[4988.16 --> 4988.80] Human -[4988.80 --> 4989.08] We -[4989.08 --> 4989.34] Need -[4989.34 --> 4989.62] God -[4989.62 --> 4990.04] Himself -[4990.04 --> 4990.56] To -[4990.56 --> 4991.14] Become -[4991.14 --> 4991.82] A -[4991.82 --> 4992.22] Man -[4992.22 --> 4992.54] So -[4992.54 --> 4992.72] That -[4992.72 --> 4993.00] Our -[4993.00 --> 4993.52] Vision -[4993.52 --> 4993.76] Of -[4993.76 --> 4994.02] God -[4994.02 --> 4994.24] Might -[4994.24 --> 4994.40] Be -[4994.40 --> 4995.06] Filled -[4995.06 --> 4995.32] And -[4995.32 --> 4996.04] Fulfilled -[4996.04 --> 4996.52] Full -[4996.52 --> 4996.78] Of -[4996.78 --> 4997.12] Meaning -[4997.12 --> 4997.50] And -[4997.50 --> 4997.62] That -[4997.62 --> 4997.76] Our -[4997.76 --> 4998.00] Vision -[4998.00 --> 4998.18] Of -[4998.18 --> 4998.80] Humanity -[4998.80 --> 4999.02] Might -[4999.02 --> 4999.20] Be -[4999.20 --> 5000.66] Re-established -[5000.66 --> 5001.32] In line -[5001.32 --> 5001.54] With -[5001.54 --> 5001.78] How -[5001.78 --> 5002.00] It -[5002.00 --> 5002.28] Should -[5002.28 --> 5002.52] Have -[5002.52 --> 5002.96] Always -[5002.96 --> 5003.74] Been -[5003.74 --> 5004.90] That -[5004.90 --> 5004.92] That -[5004.92 --> 5004.94] That -[5004.94 --> 5004.96] That -[5004.96 --> 5004.98] That -[5004.98 --> 5005.06] That -[5005.06 --> 5005.10] That -[5005.10 --> 5005.74] That -[5005.74 --> 5008.16] God -[5008.16 --> 5008.44] And -[5008.44 --> 5008.94] Human -[5008.94 --> 5009.22] Are -[5009.22 --> 5010.14] Perfectly -[5010.14 --> 5010.94] Revealed -[5010.94 --> 5011.18] In -[5011.18 --> 5011.50] Jesus -[5011.50 --> 5011.94] Christ -[5011.94 --> 5012.16] That -[5012.16 --> 5012.82] Theology -[5012.82 --> 5013.18] And -[5013.18 --> 5014.08] Anthropology -[5014.08 --> 5014.68] Come -[5014.68 --> 5015.16] Together -[5015.16 --> 5015.44] In -[5015.44 --> 5015.86] Perfect -[5015.86 --> 5016.44] Harmony -[5016.44 --> 5016.90] In -[5016.90 --> 5017.04] The -[5017.04 --> 5017.38] God -[5017.38 --> 5017.80] Man -[5017.80 --> 5018.44] Jesus -[5018.44 --> 5019.44] And -[5019.44 --> 5019.52] That -[5019.52 --> 5019.64] The -[5019.64 --> 5019.96] Fall -[5019.96 --> 5020.16] Of -[5020.16 --> 5020.66] Humanity -[5020.66 --> 5021.02] Into -[5021.02 --> 5021.40] Sin -[5021.40 --> 5022.16] While -[5022.16 --> 5022.28] It -[5022.28 --> 5022.44] Has -[5022.44 --> 5022.96] Called -[5022.96 --> 5023.78] Humanity's -[5023.78 --> 5024.16] Role -[5024.16 --> 5024.44] As -[5024.44 --> 5024.82] Vice -[5024.82 --> 5025.20] Regent -[5025.20 --> 5025.40] And -[5025.40 --> 5025.52] As -[5025.52 --> 5025.68] The -[5025.68 --> 5025.98] Crown -[5025.98 --> 5026.18] Of -[5026.18 --> 5026.72] Creation -[5026.72 --> 5027.46] Into -[5027.46 --> 5027.94] Question -[5027.94 --> 5028.32] Because -[5028.32 --> 5028.80] Of -[5028.80 --> 5028.94] The -[5028.94 --> 5029.42] Introduction -[5029.42 --> 5029.58] Of -[5029.58 --> 5030.10] Disorder -[5030.10 --> 5030.54] And -[5030.54 --> 5031.10] Brokenness -[5031.10 --> 5031.28] And -[5031.28 --> 5031.80] Chaos -[5031.80 --> 5032.12] Into -[5032.12 --> 5032.32] The -[5032.32 --> 5032.70] System -[5032.70 --> 5033.24] Right -[5033.24 --> 5034.32] Humanity -[5034.32 --> 5034.90] Now -[5034.90 --> 5035.74] Requires -[5035.74 --> 5036.10] One -[5036.10 --> 5036.34] To -[5036.34 --> 5036.78] Step -[5036.78 --> 5037.26] Into -[5037.26 --> 5037.64] That -[5037.64 --> 5038.50] Void -[5038.50 --> 5038.90] To -[5038.90 --> 5039.44] Span -[5039.44 --> 5039.68] The -[5039.68 --> 5040.06] Gap -[5040.06 --> 5040.46] Between -[5040.46 --> 5041.02] Creator -[5041.02 --> 5041.84] And -[5041.84 --> 5042.62] Creature -[5042.62 --> 5043.60] And -[5043.60 --> 5044.06] Jesus -[5044.06 --> 5044.56] The -[5044.56 --> 5045.30] God -[5045.30 --> 5045.76] Man -[5045.76 --> 5046.64] Fulfills -[5046.64 --> 5047.18] God's -[5047.18 --> 5047.68] Purposes -[5047.68 --> 5048.36] For -[5048.36 --> 5049.06] Humanity -[5049.06 --> 5049.42] But -[5049.42 --> 5049.54] He -[5049.54 --> 5049.80] Does -[5049.80 --> 5050.14] So -[5050.14 --> 5050.40] Make -[5050.40 --> 5050.56] No -[5050.56 --> 5050.88] Mistake -[5050.88 --> 5051.16] About -[5051.16 --> 5051.28] It -[5051.28 --> 5051.42] At -[5051.42 --> 5052.02] Incredible -[5052.02 --> 5052.84] Cost -[5052.84 --> 5053.10] To -[5053.10 --> 5053.46] Himself -[5053.46 --> 5054.74] Not -[5054.74 --> 5055.06] Just -[5055.06 --> 5055.64] Because -[5055.64 --> 5056.22] He -[5056.22 --> 5056.76] Came -[5056.76 --> 5057.10] To -[5057.10 --> 5058.30] Restore -[5058.30 --> 5058.68] Proper -[5058.68 --> 5058.96] Order -[5058.96 --> 5059.16] To -[5059.16 --> 5059.26] The -[5059.26 --> 5059.48] World -[5059.48 --> 5059.68] And -[5059.68 --> 5059.82] To -[5059.82 --> 5060.36] Reconcile -[5060.36 --> 5061.04] Humanity -[5061.04 --> 5061.24] To -[5061.24 --> 5061.56] God -[5061.56 --> 5061.72] At -[5061.72 --> 5061.82] The -[5061.82 --> 5062.16] Cost -[5062.16 --> 5062.64] Of -[5062.64 --> 5062.82] His -[5062.82 --> 5063.18] Life -[5063.18 --> 5063.36] On -[5063.36 --> 5063.48] The -[5063.48 --> 5063.86] Cross -[5063.86 --> 5064.36] But -[5064.36 --> 5064.74] Also -[5064.74 --> 5065.02] In -[5065.02 --> 5065.16] The -[5065.16 --> 5065.60] Cost -[5065.60 --> 5065.82] Of -[5065.82 --> 5066.00] Him -[5066.00 --> 5066.94] Emptying -[5066.94 --> 5067.62] Himself -[5067.62 --> 5067.98] Of -[5067.98 --> 5068.72] Glory -[5068.72 --> 5069.00] And -[5069.00 --> 5069.28] Honor -[5069.28 --> 5069.46] That -[5069.46 --> 5069.66] He -[5069.66 --> 5069.96] Knew -[5069.96 --> 5070.16] In -[5070.16 --> 5070.32] The -[5070.32 --> 5070.74] Eternal -[5070.74 --> 5071.38] Fellowship -[5071.38 --> 5071.92] With -[5071.92 --> 5072.08] The -[5072.08 --> 5072.30] God -[5072.30 --> 5072.76] Right -[5072.76 --> 5073.18] Taking -[5073.18 --> 5073.54] On -[5078.36 --> 5078.82] Us -[5078.82 --> 5079.34] That -[5079.34 --> 5079.72] We -[5079.72 --> 5080.12] Might -[5080.12 --> 5080.62] Become -[5080.62 --> 5081.22] The -[5081.22 --> 5081.90] Righteousness -[5081.90 --> 5082.14] Of -[5082.14 --> 5082.46] God -[5082.46 --> 5082.70] That -[5082.70 --> 5083.06] We -[5083.06 --> 5083.38] Might -[5083.38 --> 5083.54] Be -[5083.54 --> 5084.62] Reconciled -[5084.62 --> 5085.34] To -[5085.34 --> 5085.70] God -[5085.70 --> 5087.48] Because -[5087.48 --> 5087.70] Of -[5087.70 --> 5087.88] His -[5087.88 --> 5088.22] Doing -[5088.22 --> 5088.62] This -[5088.62 --> 5089.06] For -[5089.06 --> 5089.46] Us -[5089.46 --> 5089.74] We -[5089.74 --> 5089.76] We -[5089.76 --> 5089.98] Are -[5089.98 --> 5090.38] United -[5090.38 --> 5090.58] To -[5090.58 --> 5090.78] Him -[5090.78 --> 5090.94] By -[5090.94 --> 5091.06] The -[5091.06 --> 5091.40] Power -[5091.40 --> 5091.92] Of -[5091.92 --> 5092.06] The -[5092.06 --> 5092.28] Holy -[5092.28 --> 5092.66] Spirit -[5092.66 --> 5092.92] By -[5092.92 --> 5093.40] Grace -[5093.40 --> 5093.96] Through -[5093.96 --> 5094.32] Faith -[5094.32 --> 5094.50] And -[5094.50 --> 5094.80] And -[5094.80 --> 5094.92] So -[5094.92 --> 5095.40] Believers -[5095.40 --> 5095.76] Are -[5095.76 --> 5096.72] Exalted -[5096.72 --> 5097.06] To -[5097.06 --> 5097.30] A -[5097.30 --> 5097.62] Place -[5097.62 --> 5097.94] Of -[5097.94 --> 5098.78] Dominion -[5098.78 --> 5099.36] Especially -[5099.36 --> 5099.98] Over -[5099.98 --> 5100.18] The -[5100.18 --> 5100.64] Powers -[5100.64 --> 5100.94] Of -[5100.94 --> 5101.34] Darkness -[5101.34 --> 5102.38] And -[5102.38 --> 5102.68] It's -[5102.68 --> 5102.90] This -[5102.90 --> 5103.30] Truth -[5103.30 --> 5103.54] That -[5103.54 --> 5104.34] Enables -[5104.34 --> 5104.64] The -[5104.64 --> 5105.12] Disciples -[5105.12 --> 5105.32] Of -[5105.32 --> 5105.60] Jesus -[5105.60 --> 5105.86] To -[5105.86 --> 5106.56] Cast -[5106.56 --> 5106.80] Out -[5106.80 --> 5107.22] Demons -[5107.22 --> 5107.40] And -[5107.40 --> 5107.54] To -[5107.54 --> 5108.04] Work -[5108.04 --> 5108.50] Miracles -[5108.50 --> 5109.04] It's -[5109.04 --> 5109.24] This -[5109.24 --> 5109.54] Truth -[5109.54 --> 5109.76] That -[5109.76 --> 5110.14] Enables -[5110.14 --> 5110.48] Us -[5110.48 --> 5110.68] To -[5110.68 --> 5111.10] Stand -[5111.10 --> 5111.48] Against -[5111.48 --> 5112.04] Patterns -[5112.04 --> 5112.42] And -[5112.42 --> 5112.84] Systems -[5112.84 --> 5113.08] And -[5113.08 --> 5113.50] Forces -[5113.50 --> 5114.02] Of -[5114.02 --> 5114.46] Oppression -[5114.46 --> 5114.94] It's -[5114.94 --> 5115.16] This -[5115.16 --> 5115.48] Truth -[5115.48 --> 5115.64] That -[5115.64 --> 5115.98] Enables -[5115.98 --> 5116.26] Us -[5116.26 --> 5116.44] To -[5116.44 --> 5116.92] Have -[5116.92 --> 5117.34] Victory -[5117.34 --> 5117.64] Over -[5117.64 --> 5118.14] Personal -[5118.14 --> 5118.70] Struggles -[5118.70 --> 5119.10] And -[5119.10 --> 5119.46] Sins -[5119.46 --> 5119.68] Like -[5119.68 --> 5120.30] Pornography -[5120.30 --> 5120.84] Or -[5120.84 --> 5121.48] Addiction -[5121.48 --> 5122.22] It's -[5122.22 --> 5122.44] This -[5122.44 --> 5122.78] Truth -[5122.78 --> 5122.98] That -[5122.98 --> 5123.54] Moves -[5123.54 --> 5123.98] Us -[5123.98 --> 5124.26] To -[5124.26 --> 5124.44] A -[5124.44 --> 5124.78] Place -[5124.78 --> 5125.04] Of -[5125.04 --> 5125.50] Finding -[5125.50 --> 5126.04] Our -[5126.04 --> 5126.86] Acceptance -[5126.86 --> 5127.12] Our -[5127.12 --> 5127.58] Meaning -[5127.58 --> 5127.88] And -[5127.88 --> 5128.08] Our -[5128.08 --> 5128.86] Purpose -[5128.86 --> 5129.14] In -[5129.14 --> 5129.58] Jesus -[5129.58 --> 5130.42] Alone -[5130.42 --> 5131.06] Finding -[5131.06 --> 5131.36] Our -[5131.36 --> 5131.68] Meaning -[5131.68 --> 5131.94] In -[5131.94 --> 5132.26] Jesus -[5132.26 --> 5132.66] Means -[5132.66 --> 5132.82] That -[5132.82 --> 5132.94] We -[5132.94 --> 5133.10] Can -[5133.10 --> 5133.70] Stop -[5133.70 --> 5134.52] Struggling -[5134.52 --> 5134.80] To -[5134.80 --> 5135.08] Meet -[5135.08 --> 5135.26] The -[5135.26 --> 5136.02] Expectations -[5136.02 --> 5136.20] Of -[5136.20 --> 5136.32] The -[5136.32 --> 5136.58] World -[5136.58 --> 5137.24] Around -[5137.24 --> 5137.46] Us -[5137.48 --> 5137.74] No -[5137.74 --> 5138.30] Longer -[5138.30 --> 5138.66] Do -[5138.66 --> 5138.78] We -[5138.78 --> 5138.96] Need -[5138.96 --> 5139.08] To -[5139.08 --> 5139.26] Be -[5139.26 --> 5139.64] Ruled -[5139.64 --> 5139.86] By -[5139.86 --> 5140.06] The -[5140.06 --> 5140.58] Impossible -[5144.94 --> 5145.52] Social -[5145.52 --> 5145.78] Media -[5145.78 --> 5146.22] Platform -[5146.22 --> 5146.72] People -[5146.72 --> 5146.92] Are -[5146.92 --> 5147.16] On -[5147.16 --> 5147.48] These -[5147.48 --> 5147.76] Days -[5147.76 --> 5147.96] Right -[5147.96 --> 5148.34] Our -[5148.34 --> 5148.74] Self -[5148.74 --> 5149.50] Esteem -[5149.50 --> 5149.82] Is -[5149.82 --> 5150.32] Found -[5150.32 --> 5150.72] In -[5150.72 --> 5151.34] Christ -[5151.34 --> 5152.34] Alone -[5152.34 --> 5153.40] It -[5153.40 --> 5153.52] Is -[5153.52 --> 5154.06] Provided -[5154.06 --> 5154.42] By -[5154.42 --> 5155.24] Christ -[5155.24 --> 5156.34] And -[5156.34 --> 5156.48] So -[5156.48 --> 5156.64] You -[5156.64 --> 5156.80] Don't -[5156.80 --> 5156.98] Have -[5156.98 --> 5157.14] To -[5157.14 --> 5157.86] Starve -[5157.86 --> 5158.54] Yourself -[5158.54 --> 5159.68] In -[5159.68 --> 5159.80] Order -[5159.80 --> 5159.98] To -[5159.98 --> 5160.42] Exercise -[5160.42 --> 5160.82] A -[5160.82 --> 5160.92] Bit -[5160.92 --> 5161.06] Of -[5161.06 --> 5161.56] Control -[5161.56 --> 5162.18] Over -[5162.18 --> 5162.32] The -[5162.32 --> 5162.54] World -[5162.54 --> 5162.80] Around -[5162.80 --> 5163.02] You -[5163.02 --> 5164.16] You -[5164.16 --> 5164.24] Don't -[5164.24 --> 5164.34] Have -[5164.34 --> 5164.44] To -[5164.44 --> 5164.72] Cut -[5164.72 --> 5165.90] Yourself -[5165.90 --> 5166.66] In -[5166.66 --> 5166.78] Order -[5166.78 --> 5166.94] To -[5166.94 --> 5167.24] Cope -[5167.24 --> 5168.14] With -[5168.14 --> 5168.26] The -[5168.26 --> 5168.80] Anxiety -[5168.80 --> 5169.48] You're -[5169.48 --> 5169.86] Facing -[5169.86 --> 5170.72] Right -[5170.72 --> 5171.02] In -[5171.02 --> 5171.62] Christ -[5171.62 --> 5172.26] We -[5172.26 --> 5172.50] Are -[5172.50 --> 5173.10] Crowned -[5173.10 --> 5173.36] With -[5173.36 --> 5173.94] Glory -[5173.94 --> 5174.64] And -[5174.64 --> 5175.04] Honor -[5175.04 --> 5175.94] In -[5175.94 --> 5176.42] Christ -[5176.42 --> 5176.72] We -[5176.72 --> 5176.94] Are -[5176.94 --> 5177.28] All -[5177.28 --> 5178.16] Royalty -[5178.16 --> 5178.42] In -[5178.42 --> 5178.88] Christ -[5178.88 --> 5179.44] You -[5179.44 --> 5179.88] Are -[5179.88 --> 5180.74] Beautiful -[5180.74 --> 5181.22] In -[5181.22 --> 5181.70] Christ -[5181.70 --> 5182.30] We -[5182.30 --> 5182.62] Are -[5182.62 --> 5183.32] Strong -[5183.32 --> 5183.66] In -[5183.66 --> 5184.12] Christ -[5184.12 --> 5184.40] We -[5184.40 --> 5184.60] Can -[5184.60 --> 5185.20] Finally -[5185.20 --> 5185.64] Be -[5185.64 --> 5186.12] Who -[5186.12 --> 5186.34] We -[5186.34 --> 5186.54] Were -[5186.54 --> 5187.22] Created -[5187.22 --> 5187.56] To -[5187.56 --> 5187.80] Be -[5187.80 --> 5188.04] Who -[5188.04 --> 5188.16] We -[5188.16 --> 5188.32] Were -[5188.32 --> 5189.44] Recreated -[5189.44 --> 5190.66] To -[5190.66 --> 5190.90] Be -[5190.90 --> 5192.50] And -[5192.50 --> 5192.70] As -[5192.70 --> 5192.88] We -[5192.88 --> 5193.26] Start -[5193.26 --> 5194.34] 2023 -[5194.34 --> 5195.42] Remember -[5195.42 --> 5196.40] These -[5196.40 --> 5196.64] Two -[5196.64 --> 5197.06] Things -[5197.06 --> 5198.54] Who -[5198.54 --> 5198.84] God -[5198.84 --> 5199.18] Is -[5199.18 --> 5200.18] And -[5200.18 --> 5200.34] Who -[5200.34 --> 5200.56] You -[5200.56 --> 5200.84] Are -[5200.84 --> 5201.46] Because -[5201.46 --> 5201.64] Of -[5201.64 --> 5201.76] Who -[5201.76 --> 5201.90] He -[5201.90 --> 5202.14] Is -[5202.14 --> 5203.32] And -[5203.32 --> 5203.74] Remember -[5203.74 --> 5204.88] Jesus -[5204.88 --> 5205.54] Jesus -[5205.54 --> 5206.64] Shows -[5206.64 --> 5207.10] Us -[5207.10 --> 5207.74] What -[5207.74 --> 5207.90] It -[5207.90 --> 5208.24] Means -[5208.24 --> 5208.48] To -[5208.48 --> 5208.64] Be -[5208.64 --> 5208.92] Fully -[5208.92 --> 5209.36] Human -[5209.36 --> 5210.38] Fully -[5210.38 --> 5210.90] Alive -[5210.90 --> 5211.06] And -[5211.06 --> 5211.22] Not -[5211.22 --> 5211.40] Only -[5211.40 --> 5211.58] Does -[5211.58 --> 5211.72] He -[5211.72 --> 5212.16] Show -[5212.16 --> 5212.48] Us -[5212.48 --> 5212.82] That -[5212.82 --> 5213.96] He -[5213.96 --> 5214.54] Grants -[5214.54 --> 5215.02] Us -[5215.02 --> 5215.84] That -[5215.84 --> 5216.76] By -[5216.76 --> 5217.00] His -[5217.00 --> 5217.40] Life -[5217.40 --> 5218.18] Death -[5218.18 --> 5218.44] And -[5218.44 --> 5218.96] Resurrection -[5218.96 --> 5219.36] You -[5219.36 --> 5219.68] Are -[5219.68 --> 5220.10] Made -[5220.10 --> 5220.86] Fully -[5220.86 --> 5221.34] Human -[5221.34 --> 5222.22] Fully -[5222.22 --> 5222.78] Alive -[5222.78 --> 5223.82] Lord -[5223.82 --> 5224.26] Our -[5224.26 --> 5224.72] Lord -[5224.72 --> 5225.06] How -[5225.06 --> 5225.80] Majestic -[5225.80 --> 5226.20] Is -[5226.20 --> 5226.46] Your -[5226.46 --> 5226.88] Name -[5226.88 --> 5227.48] In -[5227.48 --> 5227.64] All -[5227.64 --> 5227.78] The -[5227.78 --> 5228.04] Earth -[5228.04 --> 5228.90] Because -[5228.90 --> 5229.32] Of -[5229.32 --> 5229.68] Christ -[5229.68 --> 5230.12] Jesus -[5230.12 --> 5230.52] You -[5230.52 --> 5230.78] Have -[5230.78 --> 5231.20] Crowned -[5231.20 --> 5231.50] Us -[5231.50 --> 5231.98] With -[5231.98 --> 5232.48] Glory -[5232.48 --> 5233.14] And -[5233.14 --> 5233.46] Honor -[5233.46 --> 5233.82] You -[5233.82 --> 5234.08] Have -[5234.08 --> 5234.34] Made -[5234.34 --> 5234.70] Us -[5234.70 --> 5235.34] Rulers -[5235.34 --> 5235.58] Over -[5235.58 --> 5235.76] The -[5235.76 --> 5236.04] Works -[5236.04 --> 5236.24] Of -[5236.24 --> 5236.34] Your -[5236.34 --> 5236.64] Hands -[5236.64 --> 5237.12] You -[5237.12 --> 5237.38] Have -[5237.38 --> 5237.64] Put -[5237.64 --> 5238.26] Everything -[5238.26 --> 5238.76] Under -[5238.76 --> 5239.58] Our -[5239.58 --> 5240.04] Feet -[5240.04 --> 5241.58] Lord -[5241.58 --> 5242.26] Our -[5242.26 --> 5242.72] Lord -[5242.72 --> 5243.30] How -[5243.30 --> 5243.90] Majestic -[5243.90 --> 5244.34] Is -[5244.34 --> 5244.68] Your -[5244.68 --> 5245.10] Name -[5245.10 --> 5245.72] In -[5245.72 --> 5245.90] All -[5245.90 --> 5246.06] The -[5246.06 --> 5246.38] Earth -[5246.38 --> 5247.16] Amen -[5247.16 --> 5248.34] Let's -[5248.34 --> 5248.50] Pray -[5248.50 --> 5248.86] Together -[5248.86 --> 5256.74] Lord -[5256.74 --> 5257.04] Our -[5257.04 --> 5257.36] Lord -[5257.36 --> 5257.66] How -[5257.66 --> 5258.34] Majestic -[5258.34 --> 5259.44] Is -[5259.44 --> 5259.68] Your -[5259.68 --> 5259.96] Name -[5259.96 --> 5262.10] Lord -[5262.10 --> 5262.28] Our -[5262.28 --> 5262.52] Lord -[5262.52 --> 5262.84] How -[5262.84 --> 5263.58] Majestic -[5263.58 --> 5265.08] Is -[5265.08 --> 5265.28] Your -[5265.28 --> 5265.56] Name -[5265.56 --> 5268.60] Lord -[5268.60 --> 5268.88] Our -[5268.88 --> 5269.18] Lord -[5269.18 --> 5269.50] How -[5269.50 --> 5270.32] Majestic -[5270.32 --> 5272.36] Is -[5272.36 --> 5272.58] Your -[5272.58 --> 5272.88] Name -[5272.88 --> 5276.54] Help -[5276.54 --> 5276.90] Us -[5276.90 --> 5277.16] To -[5277.16 --> 5277.48] See -[5277.48 --> 5278.32] The -[5278.32 --> 5278.86] Majesty -[5278.86 --> 5279.30] Of -[5279.30 --> 5279.48] Your -[5279.48 --> 5279.76] Name -[5279.76 --> 5281.34] And -[5281.34 --> 5281.50] The -[5281.50 --> 5281.96] Beauty -[5281.96 --> 5282.82] Of -[5282.82 --> 5283.00] Who -[5283.00 --> 5283.26] You -[5283.26 --> 5283.52] Have -[5283.52 --> 5283.82] Made -[5283.82 --> 5284.26] Us -[5284.26 --> 5284.88] To -[5284.88 --> 5285.10] Be -[5285.10 --> 5286.66] The -[5286.66 --> 5287.10] Majesty -[5287.10 --> 5287.42] Of -[5287.42 --> 5287.56] Your -[5287.56 --> 5287.88] Name -[5287.88 --> 5288.08] And -[5288.08 --> 5288.24] The -[5288.24 --> 5289.44] Integrity -[5289.44 --> 5289.94] That -[5289.94 --> 5290.12] You -[5290.12 --> 5290.40] Have -[5290.40 --> 5291.04] Created -[5291.04 --> 5291.34] Us -[5291.34 --> 5291.58] To -[5291.58 --> 5292.22] Live -[5292.22 --> 5292.68] Into -[5292.68 --> 5293.18] And -[5293.18 --> 5293.48] Out -[5293.48 --> 5293.80] Of -[5293.80 --> 5295.54] The -[5295.54 --> 5296.06] Majesty -[5296.06 --> 5296.52] Of -[5296.52 --> 5296.68] Your -[5296.68 --> 5297.00] Name -[5297.00 --> 5298.00] And -[5298.00 --> 5298.16] The -[5298.16 --> 5298.58] Strength -[5298.58 --> 5298.82] Of -[5298.82 --> 5299.48] Purpose -[5299.48 --> 5300.06] And -[5300.06 --> 5300.64] Character -[5300.64 --> 5301.24] That -[5301.24 --> 5301.42] You -[5301.42 --> 5301.70] Make -[5301.70 --> 5302.10] Us -[5302.10 --> 5302.56] To -[5302.56 --> 5302.74] Be -[5302.74 --> 5304.50] Help -[5304.50 --> 5304.76] Us -[5304.76 --> 5305.00] To -[5305.00 --> 5305.30] Know -[5305.30 --> 5305.64] Lord -[5305.64 --> 5306.04] God -[5306.04 --> 5306.26] The -[5306.26 --> 5306.60] Answer -[5306.60 --> 5306.80] To -[5306.80 --> 5306.96] The -[5306.96 --> 5307.34] Question -[5307.34 --> 5308.00] Of -[5308.00 --> 5308.42] Who -[5308.42 --> 5309.20] You -[5309.20 --> 5309.96] Are -[5309.96 --> 5311.80] Help -[5311.80 --> 5311.90] Us -[5311.90 --> 5312.02] To -[5312.02 --> 5312.26] Find -[5312.26 --> 5312.42] That -[5312.42 --> 5312.78] Answer -[5312.78 --> 5313.08] In -[5313.08 --> 5313.24] The -[5313.24 --> 5314.40] Word -[5314.40 --> 5314.70] That -[5314.70 --> 5314.88] You -[5314.88 --> 5315.12] Have -[5315.12 --> 5315.58] Revealed -[5315.58 --> 5315.90] To -[5315.90 --> 5316.26] Us -[5316.26 --> 5317.06] And -[5317.06 --> 5317.18] That -[5317.18 --> 5317.34] As -[5317.34 --> 5317.50] We -[5317.50 --> 5317.80] See -[5317.80 --> 5318.10] You -[5318.10 --> 5318.40] More -[5318.40 --> 5318.80] Clearly -[5318.80 --> 5319.42] We -[5319.42 --> 5319.64] See -[5319.64 --> 5320.54] Ourselves -[5320.54 --> 5321.28] More -[5321.28 --> 5321.64] Truly -[5321.64 --> 5323.40] And -[5323.40 --> 5323.56] Help -[5323.56 --> 5323.58] Help -[5323.58 --> 5324.58] Help -[5324.58 --> 5325.64] To -[5325.64 --> 5326.80] To -[5326.80 --> 5327.38] Help -[5327.38 --> 5327.64] To -[5327.64 --> 5328.52] Help -[5328.52 --> 5329.18] To -[5329.18 --> 5329.42] Trusting -[5329.42 --> 5329.72] In -[5329.72 --> 5330.00] You -[5330.00 --> 5331.26] Relying -[5331.26 --> 5331.50] On -[5331.50 --> 5331.76] You -[5331.76 --> 5333.38] Worshipping -[5333.38 --> 5334.42] You -[5334.42 --> 5335.40] Because -[5335.40 --> 5335.84] You -[5335.84 --> 5336.58] Are -[5336.58 --> 5337.24] God -[5337.24 --> 5337.82] And -[5337.82 --> 5338.14] We -[5338.14 --> 5338.88] Are -[5338.88 --> 5339.72] Yours -[5339.72 --> 5340.76] In -[5340.76 --> 5340.90] Your -[5340.90 --> 5341.10] Name -[5341.10 --> 5341.26] We -[5341.26 --> 5341.50] Pray -[5341.50 --> 5342.52] Amen -[5343.22 --> 5343.68] And -[5351.96 --> 5354.42] Just -[5354.94 --> 5356.56] You -[5356.56 --> 5358.16] Isotox is the worship. -[5386.56 --> 5416.54] Isotox is the worship. -[5416.56 --> 5446.54] Isotox is the worship. -[5446.56 --> 5448.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5448.56 --> 5450.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5450.56 --> 5452.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5452.56 --> 5456.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5456.56 --> 5462.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5462.56 --> 5466.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5466.56 --> 5470.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5470.56 --> 5472.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5472.56 --> 5478.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5478.56 --> 5480.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5480.56 --> 5484.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5484.56 --> 5486.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5486.56 --> 5488.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5488.56 --> 5490.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5490.56 --> 5492.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5492.56 --> 5494.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5494.56 --> 5496.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5496.56 --> 5498.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5498.56 --> 5500.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5500.56 --> 5502.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5502.56 --> 5504.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5504.56 --> 5506.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5506.56 --> 5508.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5508.56 --> 5510.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5510.56 --> 5512.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5512.56 --> 5513.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5513.56 --> 5515.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5515.56 --> 5518.56] Isotox is the worship. -[5518.56 --> 5521.06] I am who you say I am. -[5521.42 --> 5525.52] You are for me, not against me. -[5526.08 --> 5529.18] I am who you say I am. -[5530.08 --> 5533.82] I am who you say I am. -[5533.82 --> 5540.82] The sun stands free, hope is free in me. -[5541.86 --> 5547.76] I'm a child of God, yes I am. -[5548.56 --> 5557.50] In my Father's house, there's a place for me. -[5557.50 --> 5563.64] I'm a child of God, yes I am. -[5564.92 --> 5573.94] In my Father's house, there's a place for me. -[5573.94 --> 5582.88] I'm a child of God, yes I am. -[5582.88 --> 5583.88] I am. -[5583.88 --> 5592.82] I am a child of God. -[5592.82 --> 5593.82] I am a child of God. -[5593.82 --> 5599.72] blessing. I encourage you also to go hearing this invitation to stick around after service. There's -[5599.72 --> 5604.48] fellowship coffee. I believe there's even some other goodies, leftovers from last night's -[5604.48 --> 5610.22] celebration that are here for you to participate in and share as well. So please stick around -[5610.22 --> 5614.98] for that. We might get to know you and we might share life and story together. -[5614.98 --> 5625.98] Go with the blessing of our God into this week. May God go before you to protect you. May God go -[5625.98 --> 5634.46] behind you to guard you. May God go beneath you to support you. May God go beside you to befriend -[5634.46 --> 5640.90] you. Do not be afraid. Let the blessing of God come upon you today. Do not be afraid, but go -[5640.90 --> 5646.56] in peace to love and serve the Lord. Amen. -[5646.56 --> 5653.56] Do not be afraid. Have we Or the 새�яг? -[5653.56 --> 5667.64] May God come upon you today. Do not Ganze -[5667.64 --> 5672.92] do not -[5672.92 --> 5674.92] of the age when the earth -[5674.92 --> 5675.96] was crucified -[5675.96 --> 5678.12] in the gathered locations -[5678.12 --> 5679.70] before the earth -[5679.70 --> 5682.04] and the eyes of all men -[5682.04 --> 5684.06] killed the youth on the land -[5684.06 --> 5686.70] who was crucified -[5686.70 --> 5690.20] with wisdom and mercy -[5690.20 --> 5692.14] and justice your reign -[5692.14 --> 5693.44] had to walk -[5693.44 --> 5695.74] the side -[5695.74 --> 5698.22] and the angels will cry -[5698.22 --> 5700.64] hail the -[5700.64 --> 5703.20] land -[5703.20 --> 5704.50] who was -[5704.50 --> 5705.98] saying for the world -[5705.98 --> 5709.98] told in time -[5709.98 --> 5712.56] and the earth -[5712.56 --> 5713.66] will cry -[5713.66 --> 5716.00] to shall -[5716.00 --> 5718.00] reign -[5718.00 --> 5720.28] as the king -[5720.28 --> 5722.34] of all kings and the lord -[5722.34 --> 5723.88] of all kings -[5723.88 --> 5730.88] and the -[5730.88 --> 5733.22] there's a shield in our hands -[5733.22 --> 5735.30] and the glory of our sons -[5735.30 --> 5737.32] there's a fire in our spirits -[5737.32 --> 5739.14] that cannot be denied -[5739.14 --> 5741.16] that the father and the soul -[5741.16 --> 5743.22] that's for you to have done -[5743.22 --> 5745.36] for the nations that gather -[5745.36 --> 5746.26] before we -[5746.26 --> 5749.16] and the years of all men -[5749.16 --> 5753.62] and the -[5753.62 --> 5755.16] fox -[5755.16 --> 5755.40] himself -[5755.40 --> 5768.86] and the -[5768.86 --> 5771.00] who -[5771.00 --> 5773.00] Who was slain for the world, -[5773.48 --> 5776.36] Who is high. -[5778.30 --> 5780.68] And the earth will be light, -[5781.24 --> 5784.16] You shall reign. -[5786.38 --> 5790.54] And the King of all kings and the Lord of all worlds, -[5790.54 --> 5792.54] And the angels will cry, -[5793.08 --> 5796.92] Hail the Lamb. -[5798.18 --> 5800.22] Who was slain for the world, -[5800.22 --> 5802.22] Who was slain for the world, -[5802.22 --> 5804.22] Who is high. -[5805.72 --> 5808.06] And the earth will be light, -[5808.62 --> 5812.22] You shall reign. -[5813.82 --> 5817.82] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all worlds, -[5817.82 --> 5822.42] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all worlds, -[5822.42 --> 5828.52] The King of all kings and the Lord of all kings and the Lord of all worlds, -[5828.52 --> 5832.60] I come on time with the King of all kings and the Lord of all kings and the mother of all kings and slain for them. -[5832.60 --> 5834.64] And the King of all kings and the Lord of all kings and theinci men in the artist and then the Prince and Christianity of theJEFlüvirobs. -[5834.64 --> 5835.92] We will always be here for you again, -[5835.92 --> 5841.10] We are back to you again with Old Kingdom of all kings and the organizational men in the world for kings and national ways to live his own. -[5841.10 --> 5843.82] A number of kings and gentlemen around the world. -[5843.82 --> 5845.92] We are weeks to come by and the bigстр�irnicas. -[5845.92 --> 5875.90] Thank you. -[5875.92 --> 5905.90] Thank you. -[5905.92 --> 5935.90] Thank you. -[5935.92 --> 5937.92] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - January 15, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - January 15, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b5caa8e833d157468fec5d19e7bf3ae24b8e0c95..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - January 15, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,117 +0,0 @@ -• Struggling with self-doubt and negative thoughts -• Searching for identity and worth -• Finding confidence and strength through affirmations -• Believing in one's own value and love -• Announcements about church activities and youth group events -• Mention of a potluck event tonight at the church -• Invitation to stand and worship God with singing -• Call to worship from 1 Samuel chapter 2 -• Series of hymns praising God's holiness, power, and majesty -• Invitation to come and behold/worship the holy God -• The speaker expresses worship and devotion to a holy God. -• A prayer of confession is offered, asking for forgiveness from past failures. -• The power and spirit of the holy God can forgive and rescue from sin. -• The Lord's Day 6 questions are read, inquiring about the mediator who is both true God and true man. -• Scriptures are referenced, including Romans 10:4 and a passage describing Christ as the culmination of the law. -• A hymn or song is sung, referencing the cross and Jesus' sacrifice for sin. -• Prayers are offered, calling on God's faithfulness, mercy, and provision. -• Invocation of God's presence and power -• Affirmation of God's identity as healer and rock of ages -• Expression of need for God's presence and touch -• Call to turn eyes upon Jesus and lift them up in praise and worship -• Children's blessing and introduction to children's worship time -• The speaker shares a personal anecdote about having a beard and showing pictures of himself as a child -• Discussion about the idea that our loved ones were once children too -• Reference to Jesus going to the temple as a baby and his later return to the temple as a kid -• Announcements for: - • Mexico team trip in March - • New email address for submitting announcements and prayer requests - • Job opening for communications administrator position -• Church family prayer led by Kevin Lobert, youth pastor -• Reflection on Jesus' birth, life, death, and resurrection -• Prayer for peace in countries affected by war (Ukraine, Myanmar, Colombia, Ethiopia, Mali) -• Prayer for persecuted Christians in various countries (Burma, China, Eritrea, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, India) -• Request for God's name to reign without violence in those places -• Prayers for the US to be united and for wisdom among its people -• Requests for physical and mental health, comfort, and peace for individuals struggling with various issues -• Prayers for families mourning losses (Grimm and Heinen family) and for Benita's upcoming medical procedure -• Gratitude and celebration of new life (birth of Gus) -• Appreciation for church staff (Sylvia) and prayers for a suitable replacement -• Collective request for forgiveness, both from God and towards others -• Introduction of prayer for Pastor Chris -• Reference to worship sheets and Bible reading from Romans -• Explanation of where in the Bible the book of Romans is located -• Reading of Romans 1:16-17 -• Discussion of the significance of these two verses as the "big idea" of the whole letter to the Romans -• Examination of why someone would be ashamed of the gospel, and what the gospel actually means -• Worship spaces can have varying design preferences and symbolism -• A church mentioned in the transcript turned its chairs away from a cross due to discomfort with the image of the cross as oppressive and traumatizing -• The narrative of this church reflects "being ashamed of the gospel" -• The word "ashamed" in Paul's letters can also mean "offended" or "embarrassed" -• In 1 Corinthians, Paul describes the gospel as foolishness and a stumbling block to worldly wisdom -• The gospel is counterintuitive to the world and offends people's religious expectations -• In ancient Rome, people had transactional views of gods and their relationship with them -• This view was disrupted by Christianity which limited worship to traditional Roman gods -• People blamed Christians for the decline of the Roman Empire due to their refusal to continue traditional worship practices -• The concept of God's reward for moral efforts -• The gospel message that salvation is not earned through good deeds or morality -• The idea that the best efforts are insufficient to earn God's favor -• The exclusivity of Jesus as the only means of salvation -• The offense caused by the Christian gospel in both ancient and modern contexts -• The assumption that being a good person is the primary goal of religion -• The point of religion is communion with God. -• The idea that all religions are fundamentally the same and what matters is devotion to a higher power. -• There are two types of people who make this claim: secular agnostics and humanistic individuals. -• Secular agnostics believe that people are basically good and that history progresses towards a better future. -• Traditional believers from various religions (Islam, Christianity, Hinduism) reject the idea that their religion is the same as others. -• History is viewed as linear in Christianity and other religions, with a clear beginning and end. -• Traditional practitioners of world's religions do not believe all religions are the same -• Secular humanists and progressive Christians are among those who claim all religions lead to the same truth -• Jesus' statement "I am the way, the truth, and the life" contradicts this idea of absolute religious pluralism -• The law of the excluded middle states that a proposition is either true or false, with no in-between -• The gospel and the concept of having life without God as the Son are mutually exclusive. -• Some people claim both can be true, but it's a contradictory idea. -• The gospel is considered offensive in today's culture, often equated with violence against individuals. -• Disagreeing or criticizing ideas or concepts does not mean attacking a person's value or self-worth. -• Genuine disagreement and criticism should be done with gentleness and respect. -• The offense of the gospel can be enough on its own, without needing to be accompanied by personal animosity or aggression. -• Sharing faith or disagreeing with others in a loving and serving manner can make the gospel more compelling to them. -• The concept of not being ashamed of the gospel and its relation to Jesus' words in Mark 8 -• The importance of considering whether one truly wants to side with Jesus every time, even if it means offending others -• The idea that the gospel includes being embarrassed by it, and how this relates to personal choices about sharing or avoiding conversations about faith -• The speaker's admission that they have chosen not to share the gospel in certain situations due to fear of what others might think -• The recognition that this is a common issue for many people, who prioritize avoiding conflict over declaring their faithfulness to the gospel. -• The cultural climate of today makes it easier to believe that faith is a personal, private matter and not something to be shared or discussed with others. -• Evangelism and conversion are seen as a form of violence against another person's autonomy. -• A parent on a soccer team opened an opportunity for the speaker to discuss their faith, but they hesitated and made excuses instead of taking it. -• The speaker justified their hesitation by thinking about the potential consequences of discussing their faith with someone who may not be interested. -• The speaker struggled with self-doubt and embarrassment during a conversation -• They recognized the temptation to give up but chose to refocus on sharing their story and the gospel -• The other person involved was already a Christian, and the speaker realized that his own failures could have prevented them from hearing the gospel -• The importance of God's power in bringing salvation through belief is emphasized -• The gift of faith as a result of God's power is highlighted, and its role in making one righteous with God is discussed -• The declaration of God's righteousness is a powerful reality that comes through faith -• This declared righteousness is not just an idea, but the actual power of God at work in our lives -• It's about being made righteous by God's word and creation, rather than ignoring sin or choosing to ignore it -• Don't confuse exclusivity with gospel truth, as this doesn't mean shutting down deep conversations -• As Christians, we should be willing to engage in meaningful processing and discussion about the gospel -• The importance of not shutting down conversations about the gospel -• Two reasons you don't have to be ashamed of the gospel: - • It's not about you, but God's message of redemption and salvation - • Being a transformed Christian may make you look foolish or weird to others, but that's good if it means you're doing something right in response to the gospel -• The gospel doesn't need to be ashamed because it's a true reality about God and what he has done. -• The gospel changes everything about who you are and how you see the world. -• Sharing the gospel with gentleness and respect can lead to deep conversations about God and his actions in Jesus Christ. -• The gospel is not contingent on human feelings or dependent on people's beliefs, it's a truth that stands regardless. -• The power of God's gospel brings salvation to everyone who believes -• There is no reason to be ashamed or embarrassed by the offense of the gospel -• The speaker praises the name of the Lord and prays together with others -• The gospel is described as amazing, profound, and compelling -• The speaker asks to be sent out in the truth of God's gospel to boldly declare it -• Prayer and worship -• The sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross -• The resurrection of Jesus Christ -• God's blessing and guidance in life -• Connection with others at the church -• Prayer and intercession for various needs and situations -• Praise and worship through music and singing \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - January 15, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - January 15, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 43c3d3a046a17ad3ecac538d0b0f799a34e940cf..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - January 15, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2089 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 7.36] I keep fighting voices in my mind that say I'm not enough -[7.36 --> 20.26] Every single lie that tells me I will never measure up -[20.26 --> 32.66] Am I more than just the sum of every high and every low? -[38.32 --> 45.86] Remind me once again just who I am because I need to know -[45.86 --> 55.74] You say I'm loved when I can't feel a thing -[55.74 --> 62.26] You say I'm strong when I think I'm weak -[62.26 --> 68.78] And you say I'm held when I am falling short -[68.78 --> 72.06] And when I don't belong -[72.06 --> 75.42] Oh, you say I'm yours -[75.42 --> 78.64] And I believe -[78.64 --> 79.18] I -[79.18 --> 81.82] Oh, I believe -[81.82 --> 82.48] I -[82.48 --> 85.20] What you say of me -[85.20 --> 85.74] I -[85.74 --> 88.32] I believe -[88.32 --> 97.42] The only thing that matters now is everything you think of me -[97.42 --> 110.02] In you I find my worth in you I find my identity -[110.02 --> 120.42] You say I'm loved when I can't feel a thing -[120.42 --> 127.12] You say I'm strong when I think I'm weak -[127.12 --> 133.50] And you say I'm held when I am falling short -[133.50 --> 136.58] When I don't belong -[136.58 --> 140.22] Oh, you say I'm yours -[140.22 --> 141.60] And I believe -[141.60 --> 143.44] And I believe -[143.44 --> 145.44] Oh, I believe -[145.44 --> 146.44] Oh, I believe -[146.44 --> 147.44] Oh, I believe -[147.44 --> 150.00] What you say of me -[150.00 --> 152.44] Oh, I believe -[152.44 --> 153.44] Oh, I believe -[153.44 --> 166.92] Taking all I have and now I'm laying it at your feet -[166.92 --> 171.24] You say I'm held when I am -[171.24 --> 175.68] You say I'm loved when I can't feel a thing -[175.68 --> 176.14] Oh, I believe -[176.14 --> 181.14] You say I'm strong when I think I'm weak -[181.14 --> 211.12] Oh, I believe -[211.14 --> 213.36] Oh, I believe -[213.36 --> 214.36] Oh, I believe -[214.36 --> 215.36] Oh, I believe -[215.36 --> 218.36] What you say of me -[218.36 --> 218.96] I -[218.96 --> 220.12] I -[220.12 --> 220.16] I -[220.16 --> 220.22] I -[220.22 --> 221.02] I -[221.02 --> 222.02] I -[222.02 --> 223.02] I -[223.02 --> 224.02] I -[224.02 --> 225.02] I -[225.02 --> 226.02] I -[226.02 --> 227.02] I -[227.02 --> 228.02] I -[228.02 --> 229.02] I -[229.02 --> 230.02] I -[230.02 --> 231.02] I -[231.02 --> 233.02] I -[233.02 --> 233.06] I -[233.06 --> 235.02] I -[235.02 --> 237.02] I -[237.02 --> 239.02] I -[239.02 --> 241.02] I -[241.14 --> 243.02] I -[243.02 --> 245.02] I -[245.02 --> 247.02] I -[247.02 --> 249.02] I -[249.02 --> 251.02] I -[251.02 --> 253.02] I -[253.02 --> 255.02] I -[255.02 --> 257.02] I -[257.02 --> 259.02] I -[259.02 --> 261.02] I -[261.02 --> 263.02] I -[263.02 --> 265.02] I -[265.02 --> 267.02] I -[267.02 --> 269.02] I -[269.02 --> 282.90] I -[282.90 --> 284.90] I -[284.90 --> 286.90] I -[286.90 --> 288.90] I -[288.90 --> 290.90] I -[290.90 --> 292.90] I -[292.90 --> 294.90] I -[294.90 --> 296.90] I -[296.90 --> 310.78] I -[310.78 --> 312.78] I -[312.78 --> 314.78] I -[314.78 --> 316.78] I -[316.78 --> 318.78] I -[318.78 --> 320.78] I -[320.78 --> 322.78] I -[322.78 --> 324.78] I -[324.78 --> 326.78] I -[326.78 --> 330.66] I -[330.66 --> 332.66] I -[332.66 --> 334.66] I -[334.66 --> 336.66] I -[336.66 --> 338.66] I -[338.66 --> 340.66] I -[340.66 --> 342.66] I -[342.66 --> 344.66] I -[344.66 --> 346.66] I -[346.66 --> 348.66] I -[348.66 --> 350.66] I -[350.66 --> 352.66] I -[352.66 --> 354.66] I -[354.66 --> 359.54] I -[359.54 --> 360.54] I -[360.54 --> 362.60] I -[362.60 --> 376.54] I -[376.54 --> 378.54] I -[378.54 --> 380.54] I -[380.54 --> 382.54] I -[382.54 --> 382.60] I -[382.60 --> 383.54] I -[383.54 --> 384.54] I -[384.54 --> 392.92] together. First, if you are a member of the youth group in high school, so grades -[392.92 --> 401.22] 9, 10, 11, yeah, we all know that. If you're a member of the youth group in -[401.22 --> 405.86] grade 9 through grade 12, there's HCBC tonight and so that happens here at -[405.86 --> 409.54] church. If you have any questions you can talk to Kevin, he'll figure it out. He -[409.54 --> 413.98] doesn't know what's going on but he'll learn. You can talk to him following -[413.98 --> 418.30] service. If you are visiting with us and you're looking for something for your -[418.30 --> 423.52] kids to do or a way to engage, also talk to Kevin and he can explain what that -[423.52 --> 429.54] looks like and how that might work for you and yours. Also, an announcement from -[429.54 --> 434.26] the Usher team and so when you come into service each week, there's people in the -[434.26 --> 438.16] back who have name tags, who are handing out worship folders and who are just -[438.16 --> 443.82] generally mingling and helping out back there. We need a few others in that -[443.82 --> 448.00] on that team and so if that's something that you think you might be able to do, -[448.00 --> 453.60] you can talk to Rob. He's at the back. He's gonna wave. That's Rob back there. You -[453.60 --> 457.62] can talk to him. He coordinates that team for us and he'd love to explain more -[457.62 --> 463.86] about that and get you signed up for that. Also, Josh is gonna make an -[463.86 --> 468.14] announcement on behalf of young adults. -[468.14 --> 474.02] Hey young adults, just want to remind you that the potluck is tonight so bring -[474.02 --> 477.02] some food to the church at 7 o'clock. Yeah, awesome. -[477.02 --> 490.90] If none of that made sense to you, talk to Josh afterwards and he'll clarify all of that. -[492.70 --> 496.72] As far as an announcement, I think that's it and then so as you are able and where -[496.72 --> 501.04] you're seated, I'm gonna invite you to stand that we might be welcomed into God's -[501.04 --> 504.80] presence and we might sing worship songs together. -[508.64 --> 517.60] Gathering in the presence of God with his people, God is here. He is among us and he -[517.60 --> 527.44] longs for us to encounter him in worship and so we mark that and we see that come true in our own -[527.44 --> 532.72] hearts and minds with the greeting of God. Receive the greeting of God. -[533.76 --> 540.80] Grace, mercy and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son -[540.80 --> 546.16] and our Savior through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Everyone said? -[546.16 --> 548.96] Amen. Let's worship God together. -[548.96 --> 560.32] Our call to worship this morning comes from 1 Samuel chapter 2. -[560.32 --> 570.48] My heart rejoices in the Lord. In the Lord my horn is lifted high. My mouth boasts over my enemies, -[570.48 --> 578.88] for I delight in your deliverance. There is no one holy like the Lord. There is no one beside you. -[578.96 --> 581.92] There is no rock like our God. -[581.92 --> 585.92] There is no rock like our God. -[585.92 --> 597.92] You'll be preaching to you, God is lifted high. -[597.92 --> 610.56] Holy, holy, holy, Lord God almighty, Lord God almighty, early in the morning. -[610.56 --> 622.24] Early in the morning, our song shall rise to thee. -[622.24 --> 636.36] Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty. -[636.36 --> 648.22] God in thee, persons, blessed Trinity. -[651.22 --> 664.40] Holy, holy, holy, all the saints adore thee. -[664.40 --> 677.40] Casting down their golden crowns around the galaxy sea. -[678.68 --> 691.26] Cherubim and seraphim, falling down before thee. -[691.26 --> 704.26] Though words and arts then evermore shall be. -[704.26 --> 718.26] Holy, holy, holy, though the darkness hide thee. -[718.26 --> 730.26] Though the eye may blind by sin, thy glory may not see. -[730.26 --> 744.26] Only thou art holy, there is none beside thee. -[744.26 --> 755.80] Perfect in power, in love and purity. -[755.80 --> 773.14] dol- -[773.14 --> 793.14] I bow before Thee, King of glory. -[793.14 --> 801.14] Hold me, dear Lord, and I'm beside Thee. -[803.14 --> 814.02] Perfect in power, my God forever. -[814.02 --> 823.90] You are and are and you will be. -[824.32 --> 833.60] I bow before Thee, King of glory. -[834.68 --> 841.02] Holy are you, Lord, none beside Thee. -[841.02 --> 854.26] Perfect in power, my God forever. -[856.68 --> 864.38] You are and are and you will be. -[864.38 --> 882.56] Holy, holy, holy, Lord God almighty. -[882.56 --> 895.56] All Thy works shall praise Thy name in earth and sky and sea. -[895.56 --> 909.38] Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty. -[909.38 --> 920.72] God in three persons, blessed Trinity. -[922.00 --> 925.38] I stand before Thee. -[925.38 --> 938.38] King of glory, holy, holy, are you, Lord, none beside Thee. -[938.38 --> 951.38] Perfect in power, my God forever. -[951.38 --> 960.38] You were and are and you will be. -[960.38 --> 962.38] God in power, my God forever. -[962.38 --> 965.38] I stand before Thee. -[965.38 --> 970.38] King of glory, holy, are you, Lord. -[970.38 --> 975.38] Holy, holy, holy, are you, Lord. -[975.38 --> 979.38] Holy, holy, are you, Lord, none beside Thee. -[979.38 --> 985.38] Perfect in power, my God forever. -[985.38 --> 987.38] My God forever. -[987.38 --> 992.38] My God forever. -[992.38 --> 1002.38] You are and are and you will be. -[1002.38 --> 1031.38] Happy and be the king. -[1031.38 --> 1035.88] Who else commands all the hosts of heaven? -[1037.66 --> 1042.34] Who else could make every king bow down? -[1042.34 --> 1048.34] Who else can whisper in darkness trumbles? -[1049.62 --> 1053.68] Only a holy God. -[1053.68 --> 1061.62] What other beauty demands such pieces? -[1062.32 --> 1068.12] What other splendor outshines the sun? -[1069.12 --> 1074.22] What other majesty rules with justice? -[1075.54 --> 1079.18] Only a holy God. -[1079.18 --> 1086.94] Come and behold Him. -[1087.28 --> 1092.18] Go on and behold Him. -[1092.54 --> 1096.40] Cry and sing holy. -[1097.02 --> 1100.86] Forever a holy God. -[1100.86 --> 1105.34] Come and worship the holy God. -[1109.18 --> 1115.28] Come and worship the holy God. -[1115.28 --> 1120.68] What other glory consumes like fire? -[1122.04 --> 1126.66] What other power can raise the dead? -[1127.72 --> 1132.38] What other name remains undefeated? -[1132.38 --> 1137.14] Home and stay safely. -[1137.14 --> 1140.40] Why as he protected? -[1140.40 --> 1141.58] MyС router. -[1141.58 --> 1142.12] I bless you. -[1142.12 --> 1145.44] What other power can effectively have traveled? -[1145.44 --> 1162.98] One and the only cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God, come and worship the holy God. -[1162.98 --> 1186.18] Come and behold Him, the one and the only. Cry and sing holy, forever a holy God. Come and worship the holy God. -[1192.98 --> 1220.46] Who else could rescue me from my failings? Who else would offer His only Son? -[1220.46 --> 1231.40] Who else invites me to call Him Father? Only a holy God. -[1231.40 --> 1237.22] Only my holy God. -[1239.22 --> 1247.84] Come and behold Him, the one and the only. -[1247.84 --> 1256.78] Cry and sing holy, forever a holy God. -[1256.78 --> 1261.66] Come and worship the holy God. -[1262.66 --> 1271.26] Come and behold Him, the one and the only. -[1271.26 --> 1280.20] Cry and sing holy, forever a holy God. -[1280.20 --> 1284.78] Come and worship the holy God. -[1284.78 --> 1290.14] Come and worship the holy God. -[1293.14 --> 1305.90] Please join me in our prayer of confession this morning. -[1305.90 --> 1312.04] Father, you are a holy God. -[1312.84 --> 1315.10] You are the only holy God. -[1315.10 --> 1325.40] And because of that, we come to you in our time of confession this morning, praying for your forgiveness. -[1325.40 --> 1329.94] Lord, your glory consumes like fire. -[1330.94 --> 1332.50] It can raise the dead. -[1332.50 --> 1338.58] And we know, Father, that your power and your spirit can forgive us. -[1338.58 --> 1349.32] You are the only one who can rescue us from our failing of all the things that we've done this week, of all the things that we've left undone. -[1349.32 --> 1354.90] Father, we confess to you that we have fallen short. -[1357.22 --> 1359.78] Lord, but you invite us to call you Father. -[1360.54 --> 1363.88] And you invite us into your grace and your mercy. -[1364.18 --> 1365.08] And we thank you. -[1365.82 --> 1367.28] Thank you for your forgiveness. -[1369.28 --> 1371.10] We pray this in Jesus' name. -[1371.82 --> 1372.08] Amen. -[1372.08 --> 1372.24] Amen. -[1372.24 --> 1381.72] Lord's Day 6 has two questions that we'd like to read this morning. -[1381.88 --> 1387.88] So I will read the first question and have you respond with the words on the screen and then follow Kevin's question as well. -[1388.46 --> 1391.84] Please stand as we respond with these words. -[1395.52 --> 1396.70] Lord's Day 6. -[1396.70 --> 1404.76] Who is that mediator who at the same time is true God and a true and righteous man? -[1418.10 --> 1419.98] From where do you know this? -[1420.98 --> 1422.74] From the Holy Ghost. -[1422.74 --> 1443.38] Romans 10 verse 4 says, -[1443.38 --> 1451.48] Christ is the culmination of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes. -[1452.74 --> 1482.32] I know a place, a wonderful place. -[1482.32 --> 1486.32] There are accused and condemned. -[1487.32 --> 1491.60] Find mercy and grace. -[1491.60 --> 1496.04] There the wrongs we have done. -[1496.04 --> 1500.72] And the wrongs done to us. -[1500.72 --> 1505.80] Were nailed there in the name. -[1506.58 --> 1510.14] There am the cross. -[1510.14 --> 1511.14] At the cross. -[1511.14 --> 1513.14] At the cross. -[1513.14 --> 1517.14] At the cross. -[1517.14 --> 1521.34] He died for our sin. -[1521.34 --> 1524.14] At the cross. -[1524.14 --> 1526.14] At the cross. -[1526.14 --> 1530.46] You gave us life again. -[1530.46 --> 1542.60] I know a place, a wonderful place -[1542.60 --> 1551.56] Where accused and condemned find mercy and grace -[1551.56 --> 1560.80] Where the wrongs we have done and the wrongs done to us -[1560.80 --> 1570.56] Were near there with you, near on the cross -[1570.56 --> 1580.56] At the cross, at the cross, he died for our sin -[1580.56 --> 1599.38] At the cross, at the cross, he died for our sin -[1599.38 --> 1608.56] At the cross, at the cross, you gave us life again -[1610.56 --> 1622.38] I know a place, a wonderful place -[1622.38 --> 1644.86] I'm calling on the God of Jacob -[1644.86 --> 1651.56] Whose love endures through generations -[1651.56 --> 1660.04] I know that you will be pure love for me -[1660.04 --> 1665.74] I'm calling on the God of Moses -[1665.74 --> 1672.36] The one who opened up the ocean -[1672.36 --> 1681.12] I need you now to do the same thing for me -[1681.12 --> 1691.14] Oh God, my God, I need you -[1691.14 --> 1695.70] Oh God, my God, I need you now -[1695.70 --> 1699.54] How I need you now -[1699.54 --> 1705.24] Oh God, my God, my God, I need you now -[1705.24 --> 1709.36] I'm standing on your faithfulness -[1709.36 --> 1714.42] On your faithfulness -[1714.42 --> 1718.12] I'm calling on the God of David -[1718.12 --> 1721.12] I'm calling on the God of David -[1721.12 --> 1726.24] I'm calling on the God of David -[1726.24 --> 1732.12] I know with you all things are possible -[1732.12 --> 1734.76] I know with you all things are possible -[1734.76 --> 1739.12] I'm calling on the God of David -[1739.12 --> 1745.02] Who made a shepherd boy for maintenance -[1745.02 --> 1750.62] I may not face Goliath -[1750.62 --> 1752.80] But I've got none of the giants -[1752.80 --> 1765.42] Oh, God, my God, I need you. Oh, God, my God, I need you now. How I need you now. -[1766.88 --> 1775.42] Oh, rock, oh, rock of ages, I'm standing on your faithfulness. -[1775.42 --> 1786.16] You heard your children and you hear your children. -[1787.08 --> 1793.66] You are the same, God. You are the same, God. -[1794.12 --> 1800.36] You answered prayers by then and you will answer now. -[1800.36 --> 1806.82] You are the same, God. You are the same, God. -[1807.34 --> 1813.56] You were providing then. You are providing now. -[1813.56 --> 1819.86] You are the same, God. You are the same, God. -[1820.60 --> 1826.74] You worked in power then. God, move in power now. -[1826.74 --> 1833.20] You are the same, God. You are the same, God. -[1833.40 --> 1839.78] You were a healer then. You are a healer now. -[1840.16 --> 1846.20] You are the same, God. You are the same, God. -[1846.20 --> 1852.66] You were a healer then. You are a healer now. -[1852.66 --> 1859.12] You are the same, God. You are the same, God. -[1859.50 --> 1866.56] Oh, God, my God, I need you. Oh, God, my God, I need you now. -[1866.56 --> 1870.38] Now I need you now. -[1872.22 --> 1880.78] Oh, rock, oh, rock of ages, I'm standing on your faithfulness. -[1881.02 --> 1885.02] On your faithfulness. -[1885.02 --> 1907.26] Oh, rock, oh, rock of ages, I'm standing on your faithfulness. -[1907.26 --> 1911.72] Oh, rock of ages, I'm standing on your faithfulness. -[1911.72 --> 1918.40] You freed the captives then. You're freeing hearts right now. -[1918.40 --> 1924.92] You are the same, God. You are the same, God. -[1924.92 --> 1931.54] You touched the lepers then. I feel your touch right now. -[1931.54 --> 1938.54] You are the same, God. -[1938.54 --> 1940.54] You are the same, God. -[1950.54 --> 1956.54] I'm calling on the Holy Spirit. -[1956.54 --> 1964.54] Oh, mighty river, come and fill me again. -[1966.54 --> 1971.54] Come and fill me again. -[1973.54 --> 1978.96] Come and fill me again. -[1981.54 --> 1983.54] You may have a seat. -[1986.54 --> 2007.54] You may have a seat. -[2007.54 --> 2011.54] Hi. I forgot my paper at home. -[2011.54 --> 2015.54] The collections today are for the Budget First, for our church, -[2015.54 --> 2018.54] and the second one is for the Gateway of Hope. -[2018.54 --> 2020.54] They do a lot of good work, -[2020.54 --> 2026.54] and they have one-on-one interactions with people, -[2026.54 --> 2030.54] and they have shelters for men and women. -[2030.54 --> 2035.54] And please pay as you are blessed. -[2035.54 --> 2036.54] Amen. -[2036.54 --> 2037.54] Whoa. -[2037.54 --> 2038.54] Whoa. -[2038.54 --> 2039.54] Whoo. -[2039.54 --> 2040.54] Wow. -[2040.54 --> 2043.54] Whoa. -[2043.54 --> 2044.54] Whoa. -[2044.54 --> 2046.54] Whoa. -[2046.54 --> 2048.54] Whoa. -[2048.54 --> 2050.54] Whoa. -[2050.54 --> 2053.54] Whoa. -[2053.54 --> 2055.54] Whoa. -[2055.54 --> 2056.54] Whoa. -[2056.54 --> 2057.54] Whoa, whoa. -[2057.54 --> 2060.54] Whoa. -[2060.54 --> 2061.54] Whoa. -[2061.54 --> 2062.54] ? -[2067.54 --> 2080.26] Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in his wonderful face, -[2080.26 --> 2094.38] and the kings of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of his glory and praise. -[2097.54 --> 2111.86] Turn your eyes to the hills where justice and mercy embrace. -[2111.86 --> 2124.90] There the Son of God gave his life for us, and our measureless debt was erased. -[2124.90 --> 2138.90] Jesus, to you we lift our eyes, Jesus, our glory and our prize. -[2138.90 --> 2147.14] We adore you, behold you, our Savior ever true. -[2147.14 --> 2152.98] O Jesus, we turn our eyes to you. -[2152.98 --> 2176.98] Turn your eyes to the morning, and see Christ the Lion away. -[2176.98 --> 2190.98] What a glorious dawn, fear of death is gone, for we carry his life in our face. -[2190.98 --> 2204.98] Jesus, to you we lift our eyes, Jesus, our glory and our prize. -[2204.98 --> 2210.98] We adore you, we hold you, our Savior ever true. -[2210.98 --> 2216.98] O Jesus, we turn our eyes to you. -[2216.98 --> 2240.98] Turn your eyes to the heavens, our King will return for his own. -[2240.98 --> 2255.98] Every knee will bow, every tongue will shout, all glory to Jesus, our Lord. -[2255.98 --> 2269.98] Jesus, to you we lift our eyes, Jesus, our glory and our prize. -[2269.98 --> 2276.98] We adore you, we adore you, behold you, our Savior ever true. -[2276.98 --> 2282.98] O Jesus, we turn our eyes to you. -[2282.98 --> 2288.98] O Jesus, we turn our eyes to you. -[2288.98 --> 2311.98] O Jesus, we turn our eyes to you. -[2311.98 --> 2314.98] Good morning, my name is Mr. Mike. -[2314.98 --> 2318.98] And any kids three years old up to grade four, you're welcome to come up. -[2318.98 --> 2321.98] And we're going to have a quick chat, and we'll do a children's blessing, -[2321.98 --> 2325.98] and then we'll go off to children's worship time. -[2325.98 --> 2328.98] Hi, some of you guys have name tags, that's pretty great. -[2328.98 --> 2330.98] Yeah, that makes everyone know who you are. -[2330.98 --> 2332.98] That's really welcoming, isn't it? -[2332.98 --> 2333.98] How are you guys? -[2333.98 --> 2334.98] Good. -[2334.98 --> 2337.98] A little bit of sleep still, maybe? -[2337.98 --> 2338.98] No. -[2338.98 --> 2339.98] No. -[2339.98 --> 2342.98] Well, I have a quick guessing game that we're going to play. -[2342.98 --> 2344.98] Here's a little quick one, and I apologize to the church, -[2344.98 --> 2346.98] because I wasn't able to get it on the overhead, -[2346.98 --> 2348.98] but I have two pictures I'm going to show you, -[2348.98 --> 2353.98] and you have to guess who these people might be. -[2353.98 --> 2354.98] Okay? -[2354.98 --> 2358.98] Here's the first one. -[2358.98 --> 2360.98] Who is that? -[2360.98 --> 2361.98] Me? -[2361.98 --> 2362.98] Me? -[2362.98 --> 2364.98] How did you guess that? -[2364.98 --> 2369.98] You know, it's because I put on the extra little bit of chin fuzz, right? -[2369.98 --> 2371.98] That you're like, oh, that's Mr. Mike, for sure. -[2371.98 --> 2374.98] I just was so anxious to have a beard. -[2374.98 --> 2375.98] Here's one more picture. -[2375.98 --> 2378.98] I think some of you will for sure know who this is. -[2378.98 --> 2380.98] Who might this guy be? -[2380.98 --> 2381.98] Me, again? -[2381.98 --> 2383.98] No, it's not me, not this time. -[2383.98 --> 2384.98] Somebody else. -[2384.98 --> 2385.98] Somebody else. -[2385.98 --> 2387.98] But you know who this guy is. -[2387.98 --> 2390.98] Do you have any guesses? -[2394.98 --> 2396.98] Oh, are you pointing? -[2396.98 --> 2398.98] It's Pastor Kevin. -[2398.98 --> 2400.98] When he was a kid. -[2400.98 --> 2401.98] You might be surprised. -[2401.98 --> 2403.98] This is a picture of me as a kid, too. -[2403.98 --> 2404.98] Right? -[2404.98 --> 2406.98] Oh, my goodness. -[2406.98 --> 2409.98] So we're going to talk about some crazy stuff today. -[2409.98 --> 2414.98] And did you guys know that your moms and dads or grandmas and grandpas or big brothers, -[2414.98 --> 2418.98] all these other people in your lives, they were kids once, too? -[2418.98 --> 2419.98] Yeah? -[2419.98 --> 2423.98] Can you picture your dad or mom or who takes care of you? -[2423.98 --> 2425.98] Can you picture them as a little kid? -[2425.98 --> 2426.98] Yeah? -[2426.98 --> 2428.98] Have you ever seen pictures of them as little kids? -[2428.98 --> 2429.98] Yeah? -[2429.98 --> 2434.98] Well, if you haven't, you should ask because I bet you it would be awesome to see some pictures. -[2434.98 --> 2435.98] Right? -[2435.98 --> 2437.98] Well, guess who else was a little kid? -[2437.98 --> 2442.98] We just started learning about this in Sunday school last week. -[2442.98 --> 2444.98] Who were we talking about? -[2444.98 --> 2446.98] Who went to the temple as a baby? -[2446.98 --> 2447.98] Big trip. -[2447.98 --> 2448.98] Jesus. -[2448.98 --> 2450.98] He went to the temple as a baby. -[2450.98 --> 2454.98] And it was a big promise fulfilled for Simeon and Anna. -[2454.98 --> 2455.98] Right? -[2455.98 --> 2456.98] Yeah. -[2456.98 --> 2457.98] We talked about that last week. -[2457.98 --> 2461.98] And now we're going to talk about Jesus going back to the temple as a kid. -[2461.98 --> 2468.98] And it's crazy to think that Jesus, who's also God, he was a kid once, just like all of us. -[2468.98 --> 2469.98] Okay. -[2469.98 --> 2471.98] We'll talk more about that in children's worship time. -[2471.98 --> 2473.98] But shall we stand and do the blessing first? -[2473.98 --> 2476.98] And then we will go learn a little bit more together in the room. -[2476.98 --> 2477.98] Okay, arms up. -[2477.98 --> 2478.98] Ready? -[2478.98 --> 2479.98] The Lord be with you. -[2479.98 --> 2481.98] The Lord be with you. -[2481.98 --> 2482.98] The Lord be with you. -[2482.98 --> 2488.98] And all of you. -[2502.98 --> 2507.98] I was a very cute child. -[2507.98 --> 2508.98] My name's Kevin Lobert. -[2508.98 --> 2510.98] For those who don't know me, I'm the youth pastor here today. -[2510.98 --> 2513.98] And it's my privilege to lead you in today's church family prayer. -[2513.98 --> 2516.98] Before I do that though, I've got a couple of announcements. -[2516.98 --> 2520.98] The first is that the Mexico team sign up has come and gone. -[2520.98 --> 2525.98] And we have an exciting team of at least eight youth and eight adults going this March. -[2525.98 --> 2527.98] And so we've got a good showing. -[2527.98 --> 2532.98] I'm really excited to hear about what they are all going to do down there and what they're up to. -[2532.98 --> 2533.98] So I think that's really, really exciting. -[2533.98 --> 2534.98] They'll be heading down in March. -[2534.98 --> 2541.98] You'll be hearing more about that trip from the team members and from Brandon Muller as well as the date gets closer and closer. -[2541.98 --> 2545.98] But please keep them in your prayers as they prepare over the next two months to go on that. -[2545.98 --> 2548.98] The second announcement's a two-parter. -[2548.98 --> 2558.98] The first is that if you have announcements that you want to get in the bulletin, prayer requests or other things, there's a new email address. -[2558.98 --> 2561.98] It's in the bulletin already and it's in the midweek memo. -[2561.98 --> 2570.98] But if you have announcements you want to send to the church to get in there, please send those to communications, with an S, communications at LICRC.ca. -[2570.98 --> 2573.98] Again, check the bulletin and the midweek memo for that email. -[2573.98 --> 2578.98] But send those there and they will make their way into the bulletin and midweek memos. -[2578.98 --> 2585.98] And the reason we've done that is because there is now a new position available that you can apply for in this church. -[2585.98 --> 2588.98] We are looking for another administrator, a communications position. -[2588.98 --> 2593.98] If that's something that you're interested in applying in, you can check out the job description on our website. -[2593.98 --> 2598.98] You can talk to the staff here at the church or you can check out the bulletins as well. -[2598.98 --> 2602.98] So I believe that position is going to be open for a couple more weeks. -[2602.98 --> 2608.98] So please, if that is something that interests you, please give that a look and consider applying. -[2608.98 --> 2611.98] Will you bow your heads with me? -[2617.98 --> 2620.98] Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. -[2620.98 --> 2623.98] We give you praise for who you are, God. -[2623.98 --> 2628.98] As we sang this morning, you are holy, holy, holy. -[2628.98 --> 2633.98] And we thank you, Lord, for your work in our lives and for the gift of your son. -[2633.98 --> 2640.98] As we reflect on how he came into this world as a baby, and as he lived a perfect life that we have all fallen short of. -[2640.98 --> 2648.98] And as he died a cruel death all of us deserve, but rose again three days later, defeating sin and death once and for all. -[2648.98 --> 2652.98] God, may that truth sink into our hearts. -[2652.98 --> 2655.98] Lord, we marvel at this truth. -[2655.98 --> 2661.98] May we remember, Jesus, that you are our king, sovereignly reigning from your throne over your kingdom. -[2661.98 --> 2667.98] May your kingdom come, Lord, and your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. -[2667.98 --> 2671.98] Lord Jesus, our world seems to be tearing apart. -[2671.98 --> 2673.98] War is prevalent. -[2673.98 --> 2678.98] We think of countries like Ukraine as they continue to resist attacks from Russia. -[2678.98 --> 2685.98] We think of countries like Myanmar, Colombia, Ethiopia, and Mali, all of which who are going through terrible civil wars as well. -[2685.98 --> 2690.98] As people are displaced in these countries, may you show them mercy, Lord. -[2690.98 --> 2693.98] Let us, your global church, be your hands and feet for them. -[2693.98 --> 2695.98] May your kingdom come, Lord. -[2695.98 --> 2698.98] We think of places where Christians are being persecuted. -[2698.98 --> 2704.98] Places like Burma, China, Eritrea, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, and India. -[2704.98 --> 2707.98] Lord, our brothers and sisters are suffering in your name. -[2707.98 --> 2709.98] May that bring you glory, Lord. -[2709.98 --> 2712.98] And may your name be praised by those witnessing that. -[2712.98 --> 2716.98] But God, our God, stop the hate. -[2716.98 --> 2720.98] May your name reign in those places without the need for violence. -[2720.98 --> 2722.98] May your peace shine through. -[2722.98 --> 2729.98] And God, be with our country who is divided on so many things, Lord. -[2729.98 --> 2734.98] Bring understanding, empathy, and cause unity amongst us. -[2734.98 --> 2740.98] Lord, give us all here today wisdom, not to align with man-made political parties, -[2740.98 --> 2745.98] but to allow us to align with your word and what it calls us to do. -[2745.98 --> 2751.98] Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors. -[2751.98 --> 2754.98] We thank you for everything you have blessed us with, Lord. -[2754.98 --> 2755.98] We have so much. -[2755.98 --> 2759.98] And yet, Lord Jesus, even in our providence, we still need much. -[2759.98 --> 2762.98] We think of those struggling with their physical or mental health. -[2762.98 --> 2766.98] For those who have anxiety or depression, who are grieving or frustrated, -[2766.98 --> 2769.98] who are confused or lonely or afraid. -[2769.98 --> 2771.98] Father, give them what they need. -[2771.98 --> 2775.98] And may we as a church surround them with love and understanding. -[2775.98 --> 2779.98] Lord, we pray for those who are caring for aging parents. -[2779.98 --> 2781.98] Give them what they need. -[2781.98 --> 2786.98] We pray for the Grimm and the Heinen family, Lord, as they mourn the death of Helen, -[2786.98 --> 2792.98] a beloved wife, stepmom, sister, sister-in-law. -[2792.98 --> 2797.98] Lord, we pray for them as they prepare for the funeral on February 15th. -[2797.98 --> 2802.98] Give that family peace and comfort and surround them with your love. -[2802.98 --> 2810.98] Lord, we think of Benita as well as she has a biopsy coming up at the end of this month to look at a lump, Lord. -[2810.98 --> 2812.98] God, we pray for good results to that. -[2812.98 --> 2814.98] May she heal from this. -[2814.98 --> 2817.98] Will you be near them as well? -[2817.98 --> 2820.98] And God, our church rejoices as well. -[2820.98 --> 2822.98] God, we rejoice with the howlings. -[2822.98 --> 2825.98] We thank you for the birth of Gus, Lord. -[2825.98 --> 2827.98] Thank you that he is a healthy boy. -[2827.98 --> 2832.98] Be with Ismay and Daniel as they continue to recover from his birth -[2832.98 --> 2835.98] and also get used to this new reality that they live in. -[2835.98 --> 2838.98] Help him continue to grow healthy and strong. -[2838.98 --> 2841.98] Lord, we thank you for the work of Sylvia here in this church, Lord. -[2841.98 --> 2844.98] And as her time came to an end here at Emmanuel at the end of December, -[2844.98 --> 2849.98] Lord, will you be with her now as she continues on in new adventures. -[2849.98 --> 2855.98] But Lord, as her position is now available, we pray for whomever it is that is applying and going to get that spot. -[2855.98 --> 2858.98] Lord, we pray for the right fit for our congregation. -[2858.98 --> 2861.98] May you guide them to this church. -[2861.98 --> 2864.98] And finally, Lord, we ask collectively for forgiveness. -[2864.98 --> 2867.98] Forgiveness when we know we have sinned. -[2867.98 --> 2870.98] Forgiveness when we don't even realize we are sinning. -[2870.98 --> 2874.98] In our stubbornness and our ignorance, grant us forgiveness, we pray. -[2874.98 --> 2878.98] And if we need to forgive others, may your spirit convict us here today. -[2878.98 --> 2880.98] Show us those who need our forgiveness. -[2880.98 --> 2883.98] Show us those we need to apologize to. -[2883.98 --> 2887.98] May we seek out those whose relationships with us are tenuous at best. -[2887.98 --> 2891.98] And let not our pride or our anger get in the way of what you call us to do. -[2891.98 --> 2896.98] May we forgive others as you have forgiven us. -[2896.98 --> 2900.98] And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. -[2900.98 --> 2902.98] You are our savior. -[2902.98 --> 2905.98] You have given us immeasurable gifts of love and grace. -[2905.98 --> 2910.98] You have also promised us that you will always give us a way out when we are tempted to sin. -[2910.98 --> 2915.98] May your Holy Spirit stir in our hearts, God, and grant us self-control when we are tempted. -[2915.98 --> 2920.98] Keep the evil one from us and may we know that you are forever nearby when we are tempted to stray. -[2920.98 --> 2925.98] And as we open your word here in a few moments, we pray that you will be with Pastor Chris. -[2925.98 --> 2934.98] May he speak your words to us, not his own, and may we have ears to hear, hearts ready to be molded, and minds ready to engage your Holy Word this morning. -[2934.98 --> 2938.98] For yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever. -[2938.98 --> 2939.98] Amen. -[2939.98 --> 2940.98] Amen. -[2940.98 --> 2942.98] Amen. -[2950.98 --> 2955.56] thể потому -[2955.56 --> 2971.10] As Kevin prayed, and if you have one of those worship sheets, you will notice we're going -[2971.10 --> 2977.56] to continue in our teaching series right now in the book of Romans. -[2978.56 --> 2980.72] We're only reading two verses today. -[2985.56 --> 2991.72] Because as you will see, those two verses are quite packed, and really we're only going -[2991.72 --> 2996.26] to focus on the first one that we're going to read, because I didn't want to keep you -[2996.26 --> 2997.74] here for 45 minutes. -[2999.82 --> 3006.26] But can you put the slide with the slider up? -[3006.68 --> 3008.42] So the one that says where Romans is. -[3008.48 --> 3008.88] There you go. -[3008.88 --> 3016.78] So if you are new here, or if you are unsure, whenever we come to read from the Bible, -[3017.42 --> 3019.74] there's this slider that appears across the bottom. -[3019.94 --> 3023.16] And so on the left-hand side, it says Genesis. -[3023.38 --> 3024.86] On the right-hand side, it says Revelation. -[3025.28 --> 3028.26] And then the book that we're reading from is highlighted there. -[3028.74 --> 3033.56] If you're unfamiliar with the Bible, that's approximately where in the Bible you will -[3033.56 --> 3034.52] find our text. -[3034.52 --> 3041.82] And so at, what is that, like 11th, 16th way through the Bible, you will find the book -[3041.82 --> 3042.26] of Romans. -[3042.58 --> 3049.88] So really, what we're trying to do is say, grab your Bible, and then open it up to wherever -[3049.88 --> 3054.68] we happen to be, and then read along and keep that with you. -[3055.94 --> 3061.52] I'm going to read this morning, as we said, from Romans 1, verse 16 and 17. -[3061.52 --> 3066.10] So now that you all know where that is and how to find it, let's read together. -[3070.80 --> 3077.84] For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation -[3077.84 --> 3084.32] to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. -[3084.32 --> 3091.52] For in the gospel, the righteousness of God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith -[3091.52 --> 3093.72] from first to last. -[3094.78 --> 3099.76] Just as it is written, the righteous will live by faith. -[3100.56 --> 3101.62] This is the word of the Lord. -[3101.62 --> 3109.32] Now, because there's a lot I hope we can get through this morning, I'm going to just jump -[3109.32 --> 3109.86] right in. -[3110.72 --> 3118.54] But I'm going to start by saying I think that you can make a pretty compelling case that -[3118.54 --> 3125.42] these two verses in the book of Romans, in the first chapter, are the sort of big idea -[3125.42 --> 3128.22] of the whole letter to the Romans. -[3129.18 --> 3133.02] Now, that's language you might be familiar with, because sometimes you will hear me say -[3133.02 --> 3139.02] when I'm standing up here preaching that the big idea of what we're going to talk about -[3139.02 --> 3144.08] this morning, or the theme sort of under which we're going to operate or ask questions this -[3144.08 --> 3144.36] morning. -[3145.52 --> 3151.04] I think that's what Paul is doing at the beginning of Romans with these two verses. -[3151.04 --> 3158.42] I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone -[3158.42 --> 3159.66] who believes. -[3160.22 --> 3164.24] So we're going to dig into that first this morning. -[3166.32 --> 3174.32] Now, at least when I read the Bible, and when I'm talking to people and they ask, how am -[3174.32 --> 3180.74] I supposed to read the Bible, one of my favorite things to do is to come with questions. -[3181.04 --> 3183.80] And so as you read, ask questions. -[3184.14 --> 3185.26] Ask questions of the text. -[3185.68 --> 3187.40] Ask questions of what's going on. -[3187.46 --> 3188.60] Maybe it's something strange. -[3188.70 --> 3190.74] Maybe it's something you're not sure that you understand. -[3190.94 --> 3193.92] Maybe it's a word that's really interesting, and you're like, oh, I wonder about that. -[3194.06 --> 3197.40] And then write that down, and then spend some time looking at it. -[3198.26 --> 3205.34] As I read these verses, when Paul says, I am not ashamed of the gospel, it makes me ask -[3205.34 --> 3209.72] the question, why would someone be ashamed of the gospel? -[3211.26 --> 3215.80] Remember, the gospel literally means good news. -[3215.80 --> 3223.42] The gospel is good news from God about his son, heralding Jesus' victory over sin and -[3223.42 --> 3229.40] death by his taking on flesh, by living a perfect life in our place, by dying death on the cross -[3229.40 --> 3235.32] in our place, by being raised bodily, right, which is a promise of our future resurrection. -[3235.62 --> 3240.56] The gospel includes Jesus' exaltation to the right hand of the gospel. -[3240.56 --> 3247.54] In short, right to the right hand of God, in short, the gospel is the good news of Jesus -[3247.54 --> 3250.30] making you right with God. -[3251.08 --> 3253.40] And why would anyone be ashamed of that? -[3257.74 --> 3266.38] I heard a story this week about a church here in the Lower Mainland that had a beautiful -[3266.38 --> 3269.22] sanctuary worship space. -[3269.22 --> 3276.00] At the front of this historic old building was a hand-carved pulpit for the pastor to -[3276.00 --> 3282.06] stand in, and then behind the stage was this beautiful old wooden cross. -[3284.08 --> 3285.38] Now, two things. -[3285.48 --> 3291.78] One, I'm hesitant to talk about other churches and their decisions, because most of the time -[3291.78 --> 3295.22] it's just a matter of preference, and it's not my preference, so then I don't have to -[3295.22 --> 3296.28] agree, and that's okay. -[3296.28 --> 3301.20] Also, when I'm talking about the worship space of other churches, I'm cognizant of the fact -[3301.20 --> 3307.96] that we have a pretty unadorned and modern worship space, and so maybe the parallels don't line -[3307.96 --> 3308.16] up. -[3308.54 --> 3314.80] But I'm also aware that sometimes we have to ask each other hard questions, right? -[3314.80 --> 3322.72] Because the story that I heard from this church and their pastor is that they decided to turn -[3322.72 --> 3328.40] all the chairs in their sanctuary space 90 degrees to the left. -[3330.40 --> 3339.86] Because, as their pastor said, we felt that looking at the cross was oppressive and traumatizing -[3339.86 --> 3343.46] to our progressive worldviews. -[3344.78 --> 3345.34] Right? -[3345.34 --> 3351.14] The theology of the cross for this church was modern child abuse. -[3351.72 --> 3351.80] Right? -[3351.86 --> 3353.44] It represented the patriarchy. -[3353.96 --> 3359.66] And the horror of the cross was embarrassing to them, and so they turned their chairs away -[3359.66 --> 3361.22] from it, so they didn't have to look at it. -[3362.44 --> 3366.04] Now, you might ask the question, why wouldn't they just take the cross down? -[3366.04 --> 3371.64] And the answer is because that church, being old and beautiful, is used in the film industry, -[3371.80 --> 3375.82] and it's rented out all the time, and they make pretty good money, and taking the cross -[3375.82 --> 3378.44] down, it wouldn't look like a church anymore, so they wouldn't be making that money. -[3378.54 --> 3380.48] So instead, they turned the chairs. -[3381.96 --> 3386.26] That's a picture of being ashamed of the gospel. -[3389.70 --> 3394.96] But it's also not only that sort of progressive liberalism, right? -[3394.96 --> 3400.54] There are other ways that people are ashamed of the gospel, because obviously, progressive -[3400.54 --> 3402.54] liberalism wasn't the issue in Paul's day. -[3404.26 --> 3408.24] And so what else might make people ashamed of the gospel? -[3410.02 --> 3418.56] The word that Paul uses here, translated ashamed in our Bibles, can also mean, in Greek, -[3419.16 --> 3421.74] offended or embarrassed. -[3421.74 --> 3422.96] Right? -[3423.00 --> 3428.30] And so in the same way that the church was offended by the gospel with the cross, there are other -[3428.30 --> 3430.94] ways that the gospel is offensive. -[3432.70 --> 3438.08] In 1 Corinthians, Paul says that the gospel is foolishness and a stumbling block. -[3438.16 --> 3441.26] And he writes in chapter 1, verse 27, -[3442.26 --> 3445.78] God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise. -[3446.14 --> 3449.56] He chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong. -[3449.56 --> 3457.34] Point is, there is something about the full and true gospel of Jesus that is going to be -[3457.34 --> 3465.82] counterintuitive to the world and that will offend our, quote, religious senses. -[3467.76 --> 3468.60] And here's the thing, right? -[3468.60 --> 3480.68] In Paul's day, in pagan Rome, people had very clear expectations of how gods worked and how humans -[3480.68 --> 3482.30] were supposed to interact with them. -[3483.12 --> 3489.76] And so, for instance, a week before harvest time, you brought a sacrifice to the temple to appease the -[3489.76 --> 3493.48] god and in return, she would give you a bumper crop. -[3493.48 --> 3494.04] Right? -[3495.26 --> 3502.62] If you wanted to start a new business in a new city, you went to the patron god of that city to their temple -[3502.62 --> 3504.74] in the city and you made an offering. -[3505.64 --> 3512.60] And then the god would open up the city and the way of the city's dealings to you to make your business successful. -[3513.50 --> 3513.72] Right? -[3513.76 --> 3514.56] On and on it goes. -[3514.82 --> 3516.56] The formula was simple. -[3516.56 --> 3521.80] You do this for the god, they will do that for you. -[3522.72 --> 3523.02] Right? -[3523.08 --> 3528.20] It's transactional and really it was understood by everyone in society. -[3529.32 --> 3535.56] In fact, in the fourth century, so fast forward some 400 years from when this letter was written, -[3535.56 --> 3541.14] the power and the strength of the Roman Empire has started waning. -[3542.10 --> 3548.14] The Goths from the Germanic area of Europe, what we know as Europe, have started coming down. -[3548.22 --> 3550.98] The Huns from the east have started coming in. -[3551.06 --> 3556.48] They're fighting their way through the northern cities in Italy and they're making their way to Rome. -[3556.60 --> 3558.96] Eventually, they will come to Rome to sack Rome. -[3558.96 --> 3561.92] This is the sort of beginning of the end of the Roman Empire. -[3561.92 --> 3568.96] When this is taking place, there is a movement from people, citizens of the Roman Empire, -[3569.26 --> 3576.48] that rises up blaming Christians and Christianity for this happening to the city -[3576.48 --> 3580.86] because the influence of Christianity had grown so much by this time -[3580.86 --> 3587.10] that it had limited the offering of sacrifices and worship to the traditional Roman gods. -[3588.16 --> 3591.42] The argument was because we've stopped worshipping these gods, -[3591.42 --> 3595.02] because we've stopped paying sacrifice to them or giving offering to them, -[3595.32 --> 3598.90] the gods have stopped protecting our great city and our empire. -[3599.64 --> 3604.26] And in order to stop that from happening, we need to start worshipping these gods again. -[3605.26 --> 3607.74] In part, for you history buffs, -[3608.88 --> 3611.80] Augustine, who's a fourth century church father from North Africa, -[3612.24 --> 3616.70] his amazing book, The City of God, is written in response to that, -[3616.78 --> 3619.62] in defense of Christians during this attack. -[3619.62 --> 3629.70] But part of why the gospel is offensive is because it flies in the face of this transactional approach to God. -[3630.74 --> 3634.12] The normal religious model, and this continues to today, -[3634.58 --> 3638.98] is do this and God or the gods will reward you. -[3639.98 --> 3646.04] That way and understanding of God or gods makes sense to people. -[3646.04 --> 3648.04] Right? -[3648.04 --> 3648.34] Right? -[3648.42 --> 3650.08] It's a system of debit and credit. -[3651.82 --> 3655.30] But the gospel is the opposite of that. -[3656.22 --> 3662.50] The gospel of Jesus and the truth of his word says that we are such spiritual failures -[3662.50 --> 3665.14] that even our best efforts are filthy rags. -[3666.18 --> 3671.64] That everything we do is sinful and that there's nothing we can do to earn God's favor. -[3671.64 --> 3676.00] Instead, the gospel of Jesus says God did everything. -[3677.28 --> 3681.52] So while there's nothing we can do, God does it all on our behalf. -[3681.72 --> 3686.00] And that doesn't make sense to the religious frame of Paul's day. -[3687.00 --> 3688.86] In fact, it hardly makes sense to us. -[3690.44 --> 3690.62] Right? -[3690.68 --> 3695.12] We want to believe that we are genuinely and generally good. -[3695.12 --> 3698.66] And that we should have a say in our eternal destiny. -[3699.66 --> 3703.86] But the truth of Jesus, the truth of the gospel from John 6 says, -[3704.34 --> 3708.46] No one comes to me unless the Father draws him. -[3709.76 --> 3713.26] The gospel is offensive because we don't like to lose our autonomy. -[3714.92 --> 3720.30] So many of us continue to think that being moral or being religious -[3720.30 --> 3723.42] will give us an advantage when it comes to God. -[3724.10 --> 3728.08] Or at least, we think, it will make us better off -[3728.08 --> 3731.18] than those people who are less moral or less religious. -[3732.70 --> 3734.84] But the truth of Jesus says, -[3735.36 --> 3738.82] For it is by grace you have been saved through faith. -[3739.16 --> 3740.56] And this is not from yourselves. -[3740.56 --> 3744.92] It is the gift of God, not by works so that no one can post. -[3744.92 --> 3756.42] In Paul's day, people worshipped a whole plethora or pantheon of gods. -[3756.68 --> 3756.82] Right? -[3756.84 --> 3759.88] Not only depending on what you needed in return from them, -[3760.04 --> 3763.12] but also, like, on the location of where you were. -[3764.14 --> 3764.32] Right? -[3764.38 --> 3769.12] A city or a region had a god associated with it. -[3769.30 --> 3771.00] And then when you came to that city, -[3771.40 --> 3772.78] you would sacrifice to that god. -[3773.46 --> 3773.98] Right? -[3773.98 --> 3778.06] Different guilds and community groups had particular gods -[3778.06 --> 3780.14] and had particular religious traditions. -[3780.72 --> 3783.78] And as you changed guilds or as you moved about, -[3784.14 --> 3787.48] you kind of just added one in and maybe you rotated one out, -[3787.58 --> 3788.78] but you didn't really have to. -[3789.34 --> 3789.54] Right? -[3789.64 --> 3790.92] And on and on it went. -[3791.02 --> 3792.60] You kept one if you liked it, -[3792.60 --> 3794.14] and then you took on another one, -[3794.20 --> 3796.38] depending on the circumstance you find yourself in. -[3796.80 --> 3799.34] The point is, in the Roman world, -[3800.20 --> 3802.80] it's not a big deal to just add one more. -[3802.80 --> 3806.32] It doesn't matter to just throw in another one. -[3807.44 --> 3812.38] And that's why, again, it was so offensive for the early church to come along -[3812.38 --> 3815.62] and before them for the Jews to come along and say, -[3815.74 --> 3816.00] no! -[3817.16 --> 3817.34] Right? -[3817.38 --> 3819.78] You can only worship Jesus. -[3819.78 --> 3821.56] When the early church said, -[3821.56 --> 3825.08] there is one God and Father who has made himself known in the Son, -[3825.46 --> 3827.80] who remains with us in power through the Holy Spirit, -[3828.16 --> 3830.62] his glory he will not yield to another, -[3831.00 --> 3835.72] it doesn't make sense to the religious worldview of the empire. -[3837.20 --> 3841.00] People are offended because it doesn't add up. -[3841.42 --> 3843.96] People are always offended by what they don't understand. -[3843.96 --> 3847.36] But again, the gospel of Jesus says, -[3847.72 --> 3849.96] salvation is found in no one else, -[3850.06 --> 3853.70] for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind -[3853.70 --> 3856.80] by which we must be saved. -[3857.48 --> 3859.20] Acts 4, 12. -[3860.54 --> 3864.20] The exclusivity of Jesus -[3864.20 --> 3868.86] and the exclusivity of Christian salvation -[3868.86 --> 3872.80] is unfathomable in Paul's day. -[3875.20 --> 3877.50] The exclusivity of the Christian gospel -[3877.50 --> 3881.16] continues to be offensive in our culture. -[3882.20 --> 3882.72] Right? -[3882.82 --> 3884.34] People say things like, -[3885.10 --> 3887.52] sure, Christianity works for you, -[3887.64 --> 3889.38] and I'm glad that it works for you, -[3889.38 --> 3890.64] but it's just not for me. -[3891.78 --> 3891.90] Right? -[3892.02 --> 3894.82] I don't need Christianity to be a good person. -[3895.98 --> 3898.24] Now, first off, notice when people say that, -[3898.56 --> 3901.04] right, notice how the idea of being a good person -[3901.04 --> 3902.50] is what really matters to them. -[3902.56 --> 3904.92] That's what elevates, right? -[3905.00 --> 3907.78] The real assumption is that the point of religion -[3907.78 --> 3910.04] or the gospel is about being a good person -[3910.04 --> 3910.98] when in fact, -[3911.22 --> 3913.10] what I hope we can see and agree on -[3913.10 --> 3915.00] that the point of religion, -[3915.22 --> 3916.10] properly understood, -[3916.42 --> 3917.92] is communion with God. -[3917.92 --> 3919.16] Right? -[3919.20 --> 3920.18] Is glorifying him. -[3921.46 --> 3922.72] But also, right, -[3922.78 --> 3924.14] there's an assumption in there -[3924.14 --> 3927.56] that whatever works is equally valid. -[3928.96 --> 3932.18] There's this idea that exists -[3932.18 --> 3935.58] that all religions are fundamentally the same. -[3936.18 --> 3937.14] And that in the end, -[3937.26 --> 3940.14] we all worship the same ultimate reality, -[3940.90 --> 3942.70] whatever name you call it, -[3943.26 --> 3944.90] him, or her by. -[3944.90 --> 3946.94] And then, -[3947.58 --> 3948.62] there's a switch -[3948.62 --> 3950.12] that takes place. -[3950.18 --> 3951.68] People who make this argument say -[3951.68 --> 3953.16] that what matters -[3953.16 --> 3955.42] is the authenticity -[3955.42 --> 3957.20] of your devotion. -[3958.34 --> 3958.86] Right? -[3958.92 --> 3960.66] As long as you really believe -[3960.66 --> 3962.52] what you say you believe, -[3962.82 --> 3964.04] that's what matters. -[3964.14 --> 3965.04] That's what's important. -[3965.50 --> 3966.68] If there is a judgment, -[3966.88 --> 3967.86] it will be based on -[3967.86 --> 3969.10] the authenticity -[3969.10 --> 3970.52] of your belief, -[3970.62 --> 3971.40] the strength -[3971.40 --> 3972.60] of what you believe. -[3972.60 --> 3974.16] Now, -[3974.80 --> 3975.90] we could get really technical -[3975.90 --> 3977.48] and philosophical here, -[3977.60 --> 3978.92] but I've noticed -[3978.92 --> 3979.58] that there are, -[3980.04 --> 3980.80] generally speaking, -[3981.58 --> 3982.30] and I'm happy -[3982.30 --> 3983.34] if you want to talk to me after, -[3983.44 --> 3984.28] you can challenge me on this, -[3984.34 --> 3985.12] but there are, -[3985.20 --> 3986.00] generally speaking, -[3986.48 --> 3988.82] two sorts of people -[3988.82 --> 3990.06] in today's world -[3990.06 --> 3992.00] who will make this claim. -[3992.50 --> 3992.68] Right? -[3992.74 --> 3994.74] That all religions -[3994.74 --> 3996.58] are fundamentally the same, -[3996.58 --> 3998.08] and what matters -[3998.08 --> 3998.76] is devotion. -[3999.66 --> 4000.22] The one -[4000.22 --> 4001.32] who will do that -[4001.32 --> 4002.98] is a secular agnostic. -[4003.46 --> 4003.58] Right? -[4003.66 --> 4003.80] So, -[4004.20 --> 4005.76] secular being -[4005.76 --> 4007.32] someone who -[4007.32 --> 4008.42] generally follows -[4008.42 --> 4009.64] sort of a humanistic -[4009.64 --> 4010.42] tradition. -[4010.70 --> 4010.86] Right? -[4010.86 --> 4012.52] And agnostic -[4012.52 --> 4013.42] being someone -[4013.42 --> 4014.36] who is unable -[4014.36 --> 4015.26] or unwilling -[4015.26 --> 4016.92] to make any claims -[4016.92 --> 4017.90] or definitive claims -[4017.90 --> 4019.04] about who God is. -[4020.04 --> 4020.58] Right? -[4020.66 --> 4020.76] So, -[4020.84 --> 4022.32] the humanistic aspect -[4022.32 --> 4022.88] is that -[4022.88 --> 4024.00] the idea that people -[4024.00 --> 4025.08] are basically good, -[4025.08 --> 4026.58] that we all deserve -[4026.58 --> 4027.72] a fair shake, -[4027.82 --> 4028.46] and that history -[4028.46 --> 4029.52] generally marches -[4029.52 --> 4031.14] towards progress, -[4031.64 --> 4032.38] the idea that -[4032.38 --> 4033.66] what's next is best -[4033.66 --> 4035.04] sort of fits that tenet. -[4036.60 --> 4037.12] So, -[4037.24 --> 4038.36] those people, -[4038.60 --> 4039.18] sort of secular, -[4039.36 --> 4040.42] humanistic agnostics, -[4040.50 --> 4041.46] they will say something -[4041.46 --> 4042.02] like that -[4042.02 --> 4042.76] in the modern world, -[4043.18 --> 4043.80] but you know -[4043.80 --> 4044.48] who doesn't -[4044.48 --> 4045.70] say that? -[4046.36 --> 4047.04] You know who doesn't -[4047.04 --> 4047.88] say all religions -[4047.88 --> 4048.42] are the same? -[4050.02 --> 4050.98] All people -[4050.98 --> 4051.78] who believe -[4051.78 --> 4052.44] those religions. -[4054.12 --> 4054.26] Right? -[4054.26 --> 4055.64] Every traditional Muslim -[4055.64 --> 4056.72] that I've talked to -[4056.72 --> 4058.14] refuses to say -[4058.14 --> 4059.38] that Islam and Christianity -[4059.38 --> 4060.50] are basically -[4060.50 --> 4061.14] the same thing. -[4062.60 --> 4064.12] Every practicing Hindu -[4064.12 --> 4065.68] that I've ever talked to -[4065.68 --> 4068.30] fundamentally believes -[4068.30 --> 4069.06] that we are different -[4069.06 --> 4069.72] when we talk about -[4069.72 --> 4070.38] who God is -[4070.38 --> 4072.36] and how history works, -[4072.62 --> 4073.10] for example. -[4073.68 --> 4074.64] In Christianity, -[4075.18 --> 4076.62] history is linear. -[4077.50 --> 4077.60] Now, -[4077.60 --> 4078.24] that's not to say -[4078.24 --> 4079.46] that people -[4079.46 --> 4080.28] who don't know history -[4080.28 --> 4080.76] aren't doomed -[4080.76 --> 4081.34] to repeat it -[4081.34 --> 4082.04] and that things -[4082.04 --> 4083.04] happen in patterns, -[4083.04 --> 4084.22] but generally speaking, -[4084.30 --> 4084.96] there is a beginning. -[4085.52 --> 4085.66] Right? -[4085.74 --> 4087.20] We read in the beginning, -[4087.34 --> 4088.04] God created, -[4088.16 --> 4088.86] the heavens and the earth, -[4088.96 --> 4090.44] and there is an end. -[4090.92 --> 4091.26] Behold, -[4091.36 --> 4092.66] I am making all things new. -[4093.10 --> 4093.26] Right? -[4093.28 --> 4093.72] In Christianity, -[4094.08 --> 4095.26] history is linear. -[4095.64 --> 4096.46] In Hinduism, -[4096.70 --> 4098.22] history and all reality -[4098.22 --> 4099.84] moves through -[4099.84 --> 4102.50] spirals of four -[4102.50 --> 4104.00] yugas -[4104.00 --> 4105.74] that are infinitely repeating. -[4105.74 --> 4109.76] the point is, -[4110.18 --> 4110.92] in my experience, -[4111.36 --> 4112.20] that traditional -[4112.20 --> 4113.06] practicers -[4113.06 --> 4114.62] of the world's religion, -[4115.14 --> 4115.96] world's religions -[4115.96 --> 4116.82] don't believe -[4116.82 --> 4117.74] that all religions -[4117.74 --> 4118.88] are the same. -[4120.06 --> 4121.22] But as I said, -[4121.94 --> 4122.82] there's two groups -[4122.82 --> 4123.36] of people -[4123.36 --> 4124.20] who do, -[4124.28 --> 4125.56] the secular humanist -[4125.56 --> 4126.48] agnostics -[4126.48 --> 4128.22] and the only other group -[4128.22 --> 4128.58] of people -[4128.58 --> 4129.76] I've heard make this claim -[4129.76 --> 4131.72] are progressive -[4131.72 --> 4133.04] Christians. -[4133.04 --> 4137.44] Some of you -[4137.44 --> 4139.26] are going to be offended -[4139.26 --> 4140.02] by me right now. -[4140.90 --> 4141.90] I'm aware of that. -[4142.50 --> 4143.24] I'm happy to talk. -[4143.56 --> 4144.54] I will be at the table -[4144.54 --> 4144.98] at the back. -[4145.90 --> 4146.88] Let's have that conversation. -[4148.56 --> 4149.74] But so many -[4149.74 --> 4151.16] progressive Christians -[4151.16 --> 4152.70] operate in the world -[4152.70 --> 4154.70] with the religious -[4154.70 --> 4156.26] and moral sense -[4156.26 --> 4157.36] that seems -[4157.36 --> 4159.04] eerily similar -[4159.04 --> 4160.92] to the paganism -[4160.92 --> 4161.74] of Paul's day. -[4163.04 --> 4165.34] The Protestant liberalism -[4165.34 --> 4166.60] of the 19th century -[4166.60 --> 4167.36] has become -[4167.36 --> 4168.66] a Protestant paganism -[4168.66 --> 4170.14] in the 21st century. -[4171.40 --> 4172.50] But again, -[4173.16 --> 4174.50] the gospel of Jesus -[4174.50 --> 4176.56] flies in the face -[4176.56 --> 4178.14] of this idea -[4178.14 --> 4179.36] of absolute -[4179.36 --> 4180.38] autonomous religious -[4180.38 --> 4181.38] pluralism. -[4181.90 --> 4183.02] Jesus says, -[4183.44 --> 4184.40] I am the way, -[4184.54 --> 4184.96] the truth, -[4185.00 --> 4185.50] and the life. -[4185.66 --> 4186.48] No one comes -[4186.48 --> 4187.04] to the Father -[4187.04 --> 4188.90] except through me. -[4189.90 --> 4191.48] Now that cannot be true -[4191.48 --> 4193.12] if it is also true -[4193.12 --> 4193.78] that anyone -[4193.78 --> 4195.02] can come to the Father -[4195.02 --> 4196.32] or whatever you call -[4196.32 --> 4197.20] ultimate reality -[4197.20 --> 4198.60] through deep devotion. -[4200.56 --> 4202.42] In the terms of logic, -[4202.64 --> 4203.48] and this goes all the way -[4203.48 --> 4204.28] back to Aristotle -[4204.28 --> 4204.84] and before, -[4205.74 --> 4206.28] this is called -[4206.28 --> 4208.16] the law of the excluded middle. -[4209.12 --> 4209.90] And so for instance, -[4210.10 --> 4210.98] in 1 John, -[4211.28 --> 4211.88] we read, -[4212.48 --> 4213.52] whoever has the Son -[4213.52 --> 4214.24] has life. -[4214.70 --> 4215.66] Whoever does not have -[4215.66 --> 4216.36] the Son of God -[4216.36 --> 4217.40] does not have life. -[4217.40 --> 4219.24] That's either true -[4219.24 --> 4220.74] or it's not. -[4222.26 --> 4224.44] The idea of religious pluralism -[4224.44 --> 4225.50] and relativism -[4225.50 --> 4225.80] says, -[4226.00 --> 4226.24] yes, -[4226.50 --> 4227.38] that's true. -[4227.72 --> 4228.64] Whoever does not have -[4228.64 --> 4229.26] the Son of God -[4229.26 --> 4230.18] does not have life. -[4230.44 --> 4232.32] And it's also true -[4232.32 --> 4233.40] that even if you don't -[4233.40 --> 4234.12] have the Son of God, -[4234.20 --> 4234.96] you still have life. -[4235.96 --> 4237.50] Both can't be true. -[4238.58 --> 4241.20] The one denies -[4241.20 --> 4242.24] the possibility -[4242.24 --> 4243.70] of the other. -[4243.70 --> 4245.54] And yet, -[4245.86 --> 4247.74] in our world today, -[4247.88 --> 4248.84] so many people -[4248.84 --> 4249.82] go around -[4249.82 --> 4250.70] saying both -[4250.70 --> 4251.62] are true. -[4252.46 --> 4253.64] But they can't be. -[4255.28 --> 4256.86] It doesn't work like that. -[4258.92 --> 4259.34] And look, -[4260.06 --> 4261.66] the reality here -[4261.66 --> 4262.16] is that -[4262.16 --> 4263.24] we, -[4263.56 --> 4264.38] you and I, -[4264.54 --> 4265.90] can't just sit -[4265.90 --> 4267.50] passively back -[4267.50 --> 4268.06] and pretend -[4268.06 --> 4269.02] that this way -[4269.02 --> 4269.42] of thinking -[4269.42 --> 4270.12] about the gospel -[4270.12 --> 4270.74] is okay. -[4272.06 --> 4272.26] Right? -[4272.26 --> 4272.58] Yes, -[4272.72 --> 4273.28] the gospel -[4273.28 --> 4274.72] is offensive -[4274.72 --> 4276.70] and you might -[4276.70 --> 4277.68] have to be willing -[4277.68 --> 4279.18] to offend some people -[4279.18 --> 4280.10] if you want them -[4280.10 --> 4280.70] to be saved -[4280.70 --> 4281.42] by the gospel. -[4282.62 --> 4283.16] Now, -[4283.22 --> 4283.62] I know, -[4283.84 --> 4285.06] I know -[4285.06 --> 4287.04] that sometimes -[4287.04 --> 4289.34] offending people -[4289.34 --> 4291.36] in our day and age -[4291.36 --> 4292.44] of political correctness -[4292.44 --> 4292.86] and the like, -[4292.98 --> 4293.68] offending people -[4293.68 --> 4294.60] is equated -[4294.60 --> 4295.80] with violence -[4295.80 --> 4296.54] against them. -[4298.16 --> 4298.26] Now, -[4298.26 --> 4298.98] can I just say -[4298.98 --> 4300.52] that knocking down -[4300.52 --> 4301.44] a bad idea -[4301.44 --> 4302.56] is not the same -[4302.56 --> 4303.34] as knocking down -[4303.34 --> 4303.76] a person. -[4305.44 --> 4305.58] Right? -[4306.04 --> 4306.52] Disagreeing, -[4306.78 --> 4307.36] especially -[4307.36 --> 4308.86] when we do it -[4308.86 --> 4309.40] the way the Bible -[4309.40 --> 4310.22] tells us to, -[4310.42 --> 4310.60] right? -[4310.74 --> 4311.22] Disagreeing -[4311.22 --> 4311.88] with gentleness -[4311.88 --> 4312.82] and respect -[4312.82 --> 4314.64] is not an attack -[4314.64 --> 4315.68] on a person's -[4315.68 --> 4316.32] self -[4316.32 --> 4317.32] or value. -[4319.40 --> 4320.40] But can I also -[4320.40 --> 4321.00] just say -[4321.00 --> 4324.16] the gospel -[4324.16 --> 4324.80] is offensive -[4324.80 --> 4325.72] enough on its own. -[4325.72 --> 4328.30] You don't need -[4328.30 --> 4328.88] to be a jerk -[4328.88 --> 4329.60] on top of that. -[4331.62 --> 4332.10] Right? -[4332.12 --> 4333.04] I don't ever want -[4333.04 --> 4333.46] someone -[4333.46 --> 4334.50] to say -[4334.50 --> 4335.22] that they don't -[4335.22 --> 4336.16] believe the gospel -[4336.16 --> 4337.00] because of something -[4337.00 --> 4337.94] I said or did. -[4338.50 --> 4339.22] Because of some -[4339.22 --> 4340.34] attitude that I had. -[4341.10 --> 4341.24] Right? -[4341.28 --> 4341.98] Your love -[4341.98 --> 4342.88] and your serving -[4342.88 --> 4344.18] and your sacrificing -[4344.18 --> 4345.42] for those who -[4345.42 --> 4346.16] look down -[4346.16 --> 4346.76] on your faith -[4346.76 --> 4347.26] or for those -[4347.26 --> 4348.36] who don't agree -[4348.36 --> 4349.98] with what you believe. -[4350.32 --> 4350.44] Right? -[4350.56 --> 4351.20] Those doing -[4351.20 --> 4352.12] that sort of thing -[4352.12 --> 4353.26] either makes -[4353.26 --> 4354.34] the gospel of Jesus -[4354.34 --> 4355.38] more compelling -[4355.38 --> 4358.04] or like Proverbs 25 -[4358.04 --> 4358.62] says, -[4359.22 --> 4360.90] you heap coals -[4360.90 --> 4361.82] on their head -[4361.82 --> 4363.08] and God might -[4363.08 --> 4363.66] move them -[4363.66 --> 4364.78] to repent. -[4365.86 --> 4367.22] But the risk -[4367.22 --> 4368.78] is worth it. -[4369.74 --> 4369.82] Right? -[4369.86 --> 4371.10] The offense -[4371.10 --> 4372.58] is necessary -[4372.58 --> 4373.76] not just for them -[4373.76 --> 4374.34] to believe -[4374.34 --> 4375.36] and to be saved -[4375.36 --> 4376.84] but also for you. -[4379.16 --> 4380.54] I can't know -[4380.54 --> 4381.50] this for sure -[4381.50 --> 4383.10] but I think -[4383.10 --> 4384.10] that when Paul says -[4384.10 --> 4385.06] I'm not ashamed -[4385.06 --> 4385.78] of the gospel -[4385.78 --> 4387.36] he has in mind -[4387.36 --> 4388.28] particular words -[4388.28 --> 4388.68] of Jesus -[4388.68 --> 4389.88] and even if he doesn't -[4389.88 --> 4391.48] the way these two -[4391.48 --> 4393.28] texts relate -[4393.28 --> 4394.04] is important -[4394.04 --> 4394.86] for us to see. -[4395.42 --> 4396.36] In Mark 8 -[4396.36 --> 4398.14] Jesus says -[4398.14 --> 4400.06] if anyone -[4400.06 --> 4400.86] is ashamed -[4400.86 --> 4401.54] of me -[4401.54 --> 4402.84] and my words -[4402.84 --> 4404.08] in this adulterous -[4404.08 --> 4405.30] and sinful generation -[4405.30 --> 4406.90] the son of man -[4406.90 --> 4407.86] will be ashamed -[4407.86 --> 4408.50] of them -[4408.50 --> 4409.50] when he comes -[4409.50 --> 4411.28] in his father's glory -[4411.28 --> 4413.04] with the holy angels. -[4413.04 --> 4416.94] and so I mean -[4416.94 --> 4419.32] if the choice -[4419.32 --> 4420.74] is offending -[4420.74 --> 4421.64] some people -[4421.64 --> 4422.46] down here -[4422.46 --> 4423.40] or Jesus -[4423.40 --> 4424.26] being ashamed -[4424.26 --> 4424.64] of me -[4424.64 --> 4425.36] when he comes -[4425.36 --> 4426.44] I want to side -[4426.44 --> 4427.00] with Jesus -[4427.00 --> 4428.12] every time. -[4435.62 --> 4436.60] Or do I? -[4436.60 --> 4442.22] because even -[4442.22 --> 4442.80] as I say -[4442.80 --> 4443.14] that -[4443.14 --> 4446.44] there's a part -[4446.44 --> 4446.82] of me -[4446.82 --> 4449.36] that wonders. -[4452.24 --> 4452.68] Right? -[4452.70 --> 4452.96] If I'm -[4452.96 --> 4454.40] absolutely honest -[4454.40 --> 4455.38] with you -[4455.38 --> 4457.62] there's a part -[4457.62 --> 4457.82] of me -[4457.82 --> 4458.70] that questions -[4458.70 --> 4461.44] whether I really -[4461.44 --> 4461.86] do -[4461.86 --> 4463.20] want to side -[4463.20 --> 4463.70] with Jesus -[4463.70 --> 4465.32] every time. -[4466.28 --> 4466.94] Because you see -[4466.94 --> 4467.92] there's a part -[4467.92 --> 4468.50] of what Paul -[4468.50 --> 4469.12] means here -[4469.12 --> 4469.58] when he says -[4469.58 --> 4470.16] that he's not -[4470.16 --> 4471.18] ashamed of the gospel -[4471.18 --> 4472.38] that includes -[4472.38 --> 4473.62] being embarrassed -[4473.62 --> 4475.14] by the gospel. -[4476.30 --> 4477.38] And then I start -[4477.38 --> 4477.96] to think -[4477.96 --> 4479.56] how many times -[4479.56 --> 4481.86] how many times -[4481.86 --> 4482.88] have I chosen -[4482.88 --> 4484.22] to not -[4484.22 --> 4485.42] share the gospel? -[4485.80 --> 4486.58] How many times -[4486.58 --> 4487.40] have I chosen -[4487.40 --> 4488.70] to avoid -[4488.70 --> 4489.62] a particular -[4489.62 --> 4491.18] avenue of conversation -[4491.18 --> 4492.24] with someone? -[4492.40 --> 4493.54] To avoid -[4493.54 --> 4494.62] bringing a word -[4494.62 --> 4495.96] from Jesus -[4495.96 --> 4497.22] or from the Bible -[4497.22 --> 4498.56] into a conversation -[4498.56 --> 4500.30] because I'm -[4500.30 --> 4501.72] too worried -[4501.72 --> 4502.40] about what -[4502.40 --> 4502.98] the other person -[4502.98 --> 4503.50] might think. -[4506.26 --> 4507.58] And I know -[4507.58 --> 4508.40] that I'm not -[4508.40 --> 4509.60] alone in this. -[4510.12 --> 4510.20] Right? -[4510.26 --> 4511.40] Sometimes we worry -[4511.40 --> 4512.04] more about -[4512.04 --> 4512.86] what the other person -[4512.86 --> 4513.74] will say -[4513.74 --> 4514.44] or how they might -[4514.44 --> 4514.88] respond -[4514.88 --> 4515.62] than we do -[4515.62 --> 4516.96] about the faithfulness -[4516.96 --> 4518.52] of our response -[4518.52 --> 4519.06] to the call -[4519.06 --> 4519.60] of the gospel -[4519.60 --> 4520.42] to declare -[4520.42 --> 4521.68] and to preach -[4521.68 --> 4522.26] the good news. -[4523.46 --> 4524.66] And for those of us -[4524.66 --> 4525.28] who are gathered -[4525.28 --> 4526.12] here this morning -[4526.12 --> 4527.66] this is probably -[4527.66 --> 4528.28] the idea -[4528.28 --> 4529.56] that hits most closely -[4529.56 --> 4531.20] to our own practice -[4531.20 --> 4532.36] and activity together. -[4533.56 --> 4534.60] In the particular -[4534.60 --> 4535.58] cultural climate -[4535.58 --> 4536.28] of today -[4536.28 --> 4537.62] it's easier -[4537.62 --> 4538.84] to believe -[4538.84 --> 4539.86] the lie -[4539.86 --> 4541.08] that your religion -[4541.08 --> 4542.26] your faith -[4542.26 --> 4543.38] belongs -[4543.38 --> 4544.52] in the private -[4544.52 --> 4545.66] sphere alone. -[4546.34 --> 4547.08] That it's something -[4547.08 --> 4548.36] personal to you -[4548.36 --> 4549.34] and it shouldn't -[4549.34 --> 4549.84] affect -[4549.84 --> 4550.96] or be shared -[4550.96 --> 4551.94] with other people. -[4552.98 --> 4553.52] Right? -[4553.58 --> 4554.66] That evangelism -[4554.66 --> 4555.66] and conversion -[4555.66 --> 4556.78] or the belief -[4556.78 --> 4557.88] in the importance -[4557.88 --> 4558.86] and the necessity -[4558.86 --> 4559.90] of conversion -[4559.90 --> 4560.80] is somehow -[4560.80 --> 4562.06] a violence -[4562.06 --> 4563.18] against the autonomy -[4563.18 --> 4564.44] of another person. -[4565.44 --> 4566.70] We buy into that. -[4569.12 --> 4570.74] So then we stay quiet. -[4571.74 --> 4573.06] Even when God -[4573.06 --> 4574.24] seems to be giving us -[4574.24 --> 4575.54] a really clear opportunity -[4575.54 --> 4577.42] we don't take it. -[4577.42 --> 4582.22] just the other day -[4582.22 --> 4583.50] I was talking -[4583.50 --> 4584.44] with one of the parents -[4584.44 --> 4585.42] from my son's -[4585.42 --> 4586.12] soccer team -[4586.12 --> 4588.36] and he asked me -[4588.36 --> 4589.56] like randomly -[4589.56 --> 4590.22] we weren't -[4590.22 --> 4591.28] in a conversation -[4591.28 --> 4592.14] like this at all -[4592.14 --> 4593.18] we had watched -[4593.18 --> 4594.18] the kids for a few minutes -[4594.18 --> 4594.92] and our conversation -[4594.92 --> 4595.74] sort of petered out -[4595.74 --> 4596.54] and he turned to me -[4596.54 --> 4597.62] and seemingly -[4597.62 --> 4598.50] out of the blue -[4598.50 --> 4599.20] he said -[4599.20 --> 4600.52] does your church -[4600.52 --> 4601.76] do any outdoor services? -[4601.76 --> 4605.26] and my first thought -[4605.26 --> 4606.70] as soon as he said that -[4606.70 --> 4607.00] was -[4607.00 --> 4608.18] oh -[4608.18 --> 4609.70] I don't want to talk -[4609.70 --> 4610.84] about church right now -[4610.84 --> 4612.88] that's work -[4612.88 --> 4614.64] I'm here to watch -[4614.64 --> 4615.64] my son play soccer -[4615.64 --> 4617.88] and he had pretty much -[4617.88 --> 4618.80] opened the door -[4618.80 --> 4619.40] for me -[4619.40 --> 4620.80] to talk to him -[4620.80 --> 4621.38] about Jesus -[4621.38 --> 4622.30] and about the gospel -[4622.30 --> 4623.22] and about the importance -[4623.22 --> 4624.14] of worshiping him -[4624.14 --> 4625.38] and about how we gather -[4625.38 --> 4625.90] together -[4625.90 --> 4626.82] as a body -[4626.82 --> 4627.48] and a family -[4627.48 --> 4628.28] to do that -[4628.28 --> 4629.44] he had opened the door -[4629.44 --> 4630.48] all I had to do -[4630.48 --> 4631.86] was walk right through it -[4631.86 --> 4633.80] and my first response was -[4633.80 --> 4635.32] yeah I'm not really -[4635.32 --> 4635.90] in the mood for that -[4635.90 --> 4636.50] right now bro -[4636.50 --> 4639.74] no -[4639.74 --> 4642.08] in my own head -[4642.08 --> 4642.50] then -[4642.50 --> 4644.86] I began to justify it -[4644.86 --> 4645.78] right -[4645.78 --> 4646.04] it's like -[4646.04 --> 4646.52] you know what -[4646.52 --> 4646.82] like -[4646.82 --> 4650.50] after soccer season's over -[4650.50 --> 4651.02] I'll probably never -[4651.02 --> 4651.80] see this guy again -[4651.80 --> 4653.22] I don't need to worry -[4653.22 --> 4653.74] about that -[4653.74 --> 4654.94] I don't need to have -[4654.94 --> 4655.64] this conversation -[4655.64 --> 4656.18] right now -[4656.18 --> 4657.12] he doesn't want to hear -[4657.12 --> 4658.06] about those things -[4658.06 --> 4659.70] but he did ask -[4659.70 --> 4659.92] right -[4659.92 --> 4660.80] so why I think -[4660.80 --> 4661.44] he didn't anyway -[4661.44 --> 4663.60] and he'll probably -[4663.60 --> 4664.42] think it's silly -[4664.42 --> 4665.72] he'll probably think -[4665.72 --> 4666.28] I'm stupid -[4666.28 --> 4667.94] and I just don't want -[4667.94 --> 4668.50] to get into a whole -[4668.50 --> 4669.26] philosophical argument -[4669.26 --> 4670.00] with someone right now -[4670.00 --> 4672.32] I made excuses -[4672.32 --> 4674.20] for the gospel -[4674.20 --> 4676.34] now -[4676.34 --> 4678.06] thankfully -[4678.06 --> 4679.40] that's not the first -[4679.40 --> 4680.30] time I've done that -[4680.30 --> 4683.34] and so I'm aware -[4683.34 --> 4684.60] of the temptation -[4684.60 --> 4685.28] to do that -[4685.28 --> 4686.30] so I caught myself -[4686.30 --> 4688.42] and I forced myself -[4688.42 --> 4689.42] to come back -[4689.42 --> 4690.40] into that conversation -[4690.40 --> 4691.32] I was aware -[4691.32 --> 4692.00] of what was happening -[4692.00 --> 4692.68] in my mind -[4692.68 --> 4693.58] and had to make -[4693.58 --> 4694.06] the decision -[4694.06 --> 4695.24] to not let it continue -[4695.24 --> 4695.90] and so instead -[4695.90 --> 4696.76] I came back -[4696.76 --> 4697.76] and I pushed through -[4697.76 --> 4698.66] and I started asking -[4698.66 --> 4699.80] him some questions -[4699.80 --> 4701.06] and I started telling him -[4701.06 --> 4701.66] a little bit about -[4701.66 --> 4702.68] my own story -[4702.68 --> 4703.64] and how -[4703.64 --> 4705.90] Jesus had shaped -[4705.90 --> 4706.52] my life -[4706.52 --> 4707.16] and my family -[4707.16 --> 4708.18] and brought us here -[4708.18 --> 4709.76] and all of these things -[4709.76 --> 4710.40] and you know what -[4710.40 --> 4711.04] I found out -[4711.04 --> 4713.64] this guy's already -[4713.64 --> 4714.20] a Christian -[4714.20 --> 4716.38] and he goes to church -[4716.38 --> 4716.88] every week -[4716.88 --> 4717.50] with his family -[4717.50 --> 4718.70] and he was just wondering -[4718.70 --> 4720.32] how his experience -[4720.32 --> 4721.84] related to my experience -[4721.84 --> 4724.34] my own embarrassment -[4724.34 --> 4726.50] might have prevented me -[4726.50 --> 4727.44] from finding a brother -[4727.44 --> 4728.04] in Christ -[4728.04 --> 4732.26] and also -[4732.26 --> 4733.10] my own embarrassment -[4733.10 --> 4735.20] might have prevented him -[4735.20 --> 4735.98] from hearing the gospel -[4735.98 --> 4736.80] for the first time -[4736.80 --> 4737.94] now thankfully -[4737.94 --> 4738.88] that wasn't the case -[4738.88 --> 4740.82] thankfully God is bigger -[4740.82 --> 4741.82] than my own failures -[4741.82 --> 4742.88] and he covers -[4742.88 --> 4743.78] that over -[4743.78 --> 4747.88] but I -[4747.88 --> 4748.56] even I -[4748.56 --> 4750.22] need to remember -[4750.22 --> 4751.28] that the gospel -[4751.28 --> 4752.44] is the power -[4752.44 --> 4753.10] of God -[4753.10 --> 4754.82] that brings salvation -[4754.82 --> 4755.90] to everyone -[4755.90 --> 4757.16] who believes -[4757.16 --> 4757.64] right -[4757.64 --> 4758.10] that it's about -[4758.10 --> 4759.18] God's power -[4759.18 --> 4760.62] not my ability -[4760.62 --> 4762.38] and then -[4762.38 --> 4763.84] it's about their belief -[4763.84 --> 4764.40] right -[4764.40 --> 4765.78] not my persuasiveness -[4765.78 --> 4767.68] and further -[4767.68 --> 4768.68] that the compelling -[4768.68 --> 4770.02] compelling beauty -[4770.02 --> 4771.00] of the gospel -[4771.00 --> 4773.38] actually saves me -[4773.38 --> 4775.06] from my own inability -[4775.06 --> 4776.56] right -[4776.56 --> 4777.36] the gospel -[4777.36 --> 4778.40] is the power -[4778.40 --> 4779.36] of God -[4779.36 --> 4780.56] that brings salvation -[4780.56 --> 4781.34] to everyone -[4781.34 --> 4782.26] who believes -[4782.26 --> 4783.72] right -[4783.72 --> 4784.80] it's about belief -[4784.80 --> 4786.82] and that belief -[4786.82 --> 4788.24] as we -[4788.24 --> 4789.88] have already seen -[4789.88 --> 4790.96] right -[4790.96 --> 4791.96] from Ephesians 2 -[4791.96 --> 4792.90] that belief -[4792.90 --> 4794.12] is a gift -[4794.12 --> 4795.24] of God -[4795.24 --> 4796.80] and so -[4796.80 --> 4797.36] in having -[4797.36 --> 4797.92] belief -[4797.92 --> 4798.48] in having -[4798.48 --> 4799.22] faith -[4799.22 --> 4800.06] you are -[4800.06 --> 4801.32] declared -[4801.32 --> 4802.14] righteous -[4802.14 --> 4802.94] what does we read -[4802.94 --> 4804.28] for in the gospel -[4804.28 --> 4804.98] the righteousness -[4804.98 --> 4805.66] of God -[4805.66 --> 4806.30] is revealed -[4806.30 --> 4806.94] a righteousness -[4806.94 --> 4808.18] that is by faith -[4808.18 --> 4809.14] from first -[4809.14 --> 4810.08] to last -[4810.08 --> 4814.22] to be righteous -[4814.22 --> 4815.62] in simple terms -[4815.62 --> 4816.80] is to be -[4816.80 --> 4817.56] made right -[4817.56 --> 4818.28] with God -[4818.28 --> 4820.52] God -[4820.52 --> 4821.70] declares you -[4821.70 --> 4822.56] righteous -[4822.56 --> 4823.78] by grace -[4823.78 --> 4824.54] through -[4824.54 --> 4825.42] faith -[4825.42 --> 4827.16] and that -[4827.16 --> 4827.70] declaration -[4827.70 --> 4828.48] of God -[4828.48 --> 4829.50] is more than -[4829.50 --> 4830.62] just an idea -[4830.62 --> 4831.64] right -[4831.64 --> 4832.66] when Paul says -[4832.66 --> 4833.40] it is the power -[4833.40 --> 4833.96] of God -[4833.96 --> 4834.38] right -[4834.38 --> 4835.40] because sometimes -[4835.40 --> 4835.88] we think -[4835.88 --> 4836.50] that declaration -[4836.50 --> 4837.04] means that -[4837.04 --> 4837.68] that God -[4837.68 --> 4838.48] just no longer -[4838.48 --> 4839.22] sees -[4839.22 --> 4840.90] our unrighteousness -[4840.90 --> 4841.16] right -[4841.16 --> 4841.82] that he's choosing -[4841.82 --> 4842.70] to ignore -[4842.70 --> 4843.68] my sin -[4843.68 --> 4846.22] but the declared -[4846.22 --> 4846.72] righteousness -[4846.72 --> 4847.26] of God -[4847.26 --> 4847.76] comes with -[4847.76 --> 4848.20] the full -[4848.20 --> 4848.78] creative -[4848.78 --> 4849.34] power -[4849.34 --> 4849.78] of who -[4849.78 --> 4850.04] God -[4850.04 --> 4850.44] is -[4850.44 --> 4852.06] remember -[4852.06 --> 4852.82] the story -[4852.82 --> 4853.40] of creation -[4853.40 --> 4853.92] right -[4853.92 --> 4855.04] God said -[4855.04 --> 4855.94] let there -[4855.94 --> 4856.58] be light -[4856.58 --> 4857.64] and there -[4857.64 --> 4858.24] was light -[4858.24 --> 4859.82] his word -[4859.82 --> 4860.60] creates -[4860.60 --> 4861.50] reality -[4861.50 --> 4863.00] right -[4863.00 --> 4863.30] and so -[4863.30 --> 4864.42] God speaks -[4864.42 --> 4865.74] and reality -[4865.74 --> 4866.50] is created -[4866.50 --> 4867.58] God speaks -[4867.58 --> 4868.56] and you -[4868.56 --> 4869.86] are made -[4869.86 --> 4870.66] righteous -[4870.66 --> 4871.28] the new -[4871.28 --> 4871.90] reality -[4871.90 --> 4873.00] is by grace -[4873.00 --> 4873.52] through faith -[4873.52 --> 4874.30] you are -[4874.30 --> 4875.10] righteous -[4875.10 --> 4876.32] this is -[4876.32 --> 4877.30] a reality -[4877.30 --> 4878.20] defining -[4878.20 --> 4878.96] decree -[4878.96 --> 4883.02] and perhaps -[4883.02 --> 4884.86] to be -[4884.86 --> 4885.28] embarrassed -[4885.28 --> 4886.18] by the gospel -[4886.18 --> 4887.52] is to believe -[4887.52 --> 4888.40] that God's -[4888.40 --> 4888.80] decree -[4888.80 --> 4889.70] is something -[4889.70 --> 4890.34] less -[4890.34 --> 4891.94] than reality -[4891.94 --> 4893.10] defining -[4893.10 --> 4896.46] now -[4896.46 --> 4898.14] as I -[4898.14 --> 4899.38] start wrapping -[4899.38 --> 4899.80] this up -[4899.80 --> 4901.06] here's what -[4901.06 --> 4901.72] I don't want -[4901.72 --> 4902.38] you to hear -[4902.38 --> 4903.30] from me -[4903.30 --> 4903.92] and then -[4903.92 --> 4904.18] I'll end -[4904.18 --> 4904.52] with two -[4904.52 --> 4905.20] points -[4905.20 --> 4905.58] of summary -[4905.58 --> 4906.16] first -[4906.16 --> 4907.42] don't -[4907.42 --> 4908.12] confuse -[4908.12 --> 4908.64] the -[4908.64 --> 4909.64] exclusivity -[4909.64 --> 4910.16] of the -[4910.16 --> 4910.60] gospel -[4910.60 --> 4911.64] for a -[4911.64 --> 4911.96] shutting -[4911.96 --> 4912.48] down -[4912.48 --> 4913.06] of deep -[4913.06 --> 4913.86] conversation -[4913.86 --> 4916.24] I want -[4916.24 --> 4916.62] to have -[4916.62 --> 4917.02] deep -[4917.02 --> 4917.88] meaningful -[4917.88 --> 4918.80] processing -[4918.80 --> 4919.58] conversations -[4919.58 --> 4920.12] with you -[4920.12 --> 4920.86] and in fact -[4920.86 --> 4921.52] as Christians -[4921.52 --> 4922.10] because we -[4922.10 --> 4922.62] believe this -[4922.62 --> 4922.94] gospel -[4922.94 --> 4923.62] is from -[4923.62 --> 4923.96] God -[4923.96 --> 4924.52] about his -[4924.52 --> 4924.76] son -[4924.76 --> 4925.44] we should -[4925.44 --> 4925.76] be the -[4925.76 --> 4926.14] first -[4926.14 --> 4926.98] to enter -[4926.98 --> 4927.40] into -[4927.40 --> 4927.76] these -[4927.76 --> 4928.18] deep -[4928.18 --> 4929.14] processing -[4929.14 --> 4929.98] hard -[4929.98 --> 4930.86] challenging -[4930.86 --> 4931.36] kinds -[4931.36 --> 4931.52] of -[4931.52 --> 4932.28] conversations -[4932.28 --> 4934.78] let people -[4934.78 --> 4935.30] ask their -[4935.30 --> 4935.74] questions -[4935.74 --> 4936.48] to test -[4936.48 --> 4937.20] the truth -[4937.20 --> 4937.82] and the -[4937.82 --> 4938.28] authenticity -[4938.28 --> 4939.06] of the -[4939.06 --> 4939.46] gospel -[4939.46 --> 4940.12] and let -[4940.12 --> 4940.30] God -[4940.30 --> 4940.74] use -[4940.74 --> 4941.18] that -[4941.18 --> 4942.34] and so -[4942.34 --> 4942.64] we're not -[4942.64 --> 4943.04] shutting -[4943.04 --> 4943.42] down -[4943.42 --> 4944.10] conversations -[4944.10 --> 4944.84] by saying -[4944.84 --> 4945.32] this is -[4945.32 --> 4945.68] what we -[4945.68 --> 4946.04] believe -[4946.04 --> 4946.52] and that -[4946.52 --> 4946.74] this -[4946.74 --> 4947.18] alone -[4947.18 --> 4947.84] is the -[4947.84 --> 4948.02] way -[4948.02 --> 4948.18] of -[4948.18 --> 4948.58] salvation -[4948.58 --> 4949.00] in fact -[4949.00 --> 4949.32] we are -[4949.32 --> 4949.80] inviting -[4949.80 --> 4950.30] them -[4950.30 --> 4953.60] and then -[4953.60 --> 4954.28] and here's -[4954.28 --> 4954.56] where I'll -[4954.56 --> 4954.76] land -[4954.76 --> 4956.46] there are -[4956.46 --> 4957.12] two reasons -[4957.12 --> 4958.26] why you -[4958.26 --> 4958.74] don't have -[4958.74 --> 4959.12] to be -[4959.12 --> 4959.56] ashamed -[4959.56 --> 4960.50] of the -[4960.50 --> 4960.86] gospel -[4960.86 --> 4962.34] first and -[4962.34 --> 4963.10] most important -[4963.10 --> 4963.48] for your -[4963.48 --> 4963.86] takeaway -[4963.86 --> 4964.66] you don't -[4964.66 --> 4965.10] have to be -[4965.10 --> 4965.46] ashamed -[4965.46 --> 4965.68] of the -[4965.68 --> 4966.00] gospel -[4966.00 --> 4966.56] because the -[4966.56 --> 4966.88] gospel -[4966.88 --> 4967.30] isn't -[4967.30 --> 4967.62] about -[4967.62 --> 4968.06] you -[4968.06 --> 4970.62] and it's -[4970.62 --> 4971.22] for you -[4971.22 --> 4972.40] but it's -[4972.40 --> 4972.84] about -[4972.84 --> 4973.52] God -[4973.52 --> 4974.68] right -[4974.68 --> 4974.90] it's -[4974.90 --> 4975.36] his -[4975.36 --> 4975.96] message -[4975.96 --> 4976.62] of redemption -[4976.62 --> 4977.54] and salvation -[4977.54 --> 4978.26] to the -[4978.26 --> 4978.52] world -[4978.52 --> 4978.98] it's about -[4978.98 --> 4979.40] Jesus -[4979.40 --> 4980.12] who lived -[4980.12 --> 4980.56] the life -[4980.56 --> 4980.94] I should -[4980.94 --> 4981.06] have -[4981.06 --> 4981.34] lived -[4981.34 --> 4981.84] and who -[4981.84 --> 4982.18] died -[4982.18 --> 4982.64] the death -[4982.64 --> 4982.96] that I -[4982.96 --> 4983.34] deserve -[4983.34 --> 4985.42] it's about -[4985.42 --> 4985.78] Jesus -[4985.78 --> 4986.90] who calls -[4986.90 --> 4987.38] you out -[4987.38 --> 4988.02] of darkness -[4988.02 --> 4989.58] and restores -[4989.58 --> 4990.50] you to -[4990.50 --> 4991.08] communion -[4991.08 --> 4991.86] with God -[4991.86 --> 4992.44] who makes -[4992.44 --> 4993.42] you right -[4993.42 --> 4994.70] with God -[4994.70 --> 4995.18] and so -[4995.18 --> 4996.10] if being -[4996.10 --> 4997.16] a gospel -[4997.16 --> 4997.84] believing -[4997.84 --> 4998.48] gospel -[4998.48 --> 4999.18] transformed -[4999.18 --> 4999.64] Christian -[4999.64 --> 5000.46] makes you -[5000.46 --> 5000.98] look a little -[5000.98 --> 5001.66] foolish in -[5001.66 --> 5002.10] the world -[5002.10 --> 5002.56] or it makes -[5002.56 --> 5002.94] you seem -[5002.94 --> 5003.20] a little -[5003.20 --> 5003.74] bit weird -[5003.74 --> 5004.28] to the -[5004.28 --> 5004.70] people who -[5004.70 --> 5005.40] don't believe -[5005.40 --> 5006.26] that's -[5006.26 --> 5006.66] good -[5006.66 --> 5008.60] that means -[5008.60 --> 5009.10] you're doing -[5009.10 --> 5009.84] something right -[5009.84 --> 5010.46] in response -[5010.46 --> 5011.16] to the gospel -[5011.16 --> 5011.88] and with -[5011.88 --> 5012.42] the gospel -[5012.42 --> 5013.10] that means -[5013.10 --> 5013.56] that it's -[5013.56 --> 5014.24] settling -[5014.24 --> 5015.12] deep down -[5015.12 --> 5015.86] in you -[5015.86 --> 5016.94] and transforming -[5016.94 --> 5017.94] you -[5017.94 --> 5020.10] and then the -[5020.10 --> 5020.68] second reason -[5020.68 --> 5021.84] that you don't -[5021.84 --> 5022.54] need to be ashamed -[5022.54 --> 5023.18] of the gospel -[5023.18 --> 5024.58] is because -[5024.58 --> 5025.16] it's true -[5025.16 --> 5027.38] it's true -[5027.38 --> 5028.24] it is a -[5028.24 --> 5029.16] reality -[5029.16 --> 5030.54] defining -[5030.54 --> 5031.72] really -[5031.72 --> 5032.70] real -[5032.70 --> 5033.60] truth -[5033.60 --> 5034.36] about who -[5034.36 --> 5034.88] God is -[5034.88 --> 5035.50] and what -[5035.50 --> 5036.10] he has done -[5036.10 --> 5036.98] in the world -[5036.98 --> 5037.66] the gospel -[5037.66 --> 5038.14] changes -[5038.14 --> 5038.76] everything -[5038.76 --> 5039.60] about who -[5039.60 --> 5040.06] you are -[5040.06 --> 5040.58] but also -[5040.58 --> 5041.10] the gospel -[5041.10 --> 5041.56] changes -[5041.56 --> 5042.10] everything -[5042.10 --> 5042.82] then -[5042.82 --> 5043.70] about how -[5043.70 --> 5044.52] you see -[5044.52 --> 5045.50] the world -[5045.50 --> 5048.06] and so -[5048.06 --> 5048.46] the next -[5048.46 --> 5048.80] time -[5048.80 --> 5050.54] with gentleness -[5050.54 --> 5051.70] and respect -[5051.70 --> 5054.10] take the risk -[5054.10 --> 5055.32] of offending -[5055.32 --> 5055.88] someone -[5055.88 --> 5057.40] with the gospel -[5057.40 --> 5059.84] next time -[5059.84 --> 5060.32] God gives you -[5060.32 --> 5061.06] that opportunity -[5061.06 --> 5063.10] to enter -[5063.10 --> 5064.16] into a deep -[5064.16 --> 5065.28] real conversation -[5065.28 --> 5065.80] about who -[5065.80 --> 5066.32] he is -[5066.32 --> 5066.60] and what -[5066.60 --> 5066.88] he has -[5066.88 --> 5067.08] done -[5067.08 --> 5067.46] in Jesus -[5067.46 --> 5067.96] Christ -[5067.96 --> 5069.38] take the -[5069.38 --> 5069.78] chance -[5069.78 --> 5071.16] and see -[5071.16 --> 5071.42] what he -[5071.42 --> 5071.90] might do -[5071.90 --> 5074.24] because the -[5074.24 --> 5074.86] gospel is -[5074.86 --> 5075.56] not about -[5075.56 --> 5076.28] you -[5076.28 --> 5076.94] but about -[5076.94 --> 5077.78] Jesus -[5077.78 --> 5078.86] it also -[5078.86 --> 5079.56] then -[5079.56 --> 5080.42] provides -[5080.42 --> 5081.38] a hope -[5081.38 --> 5082.06] that's not -[5082.06 --> 5082.74] contingent -[5082.74 --> 5083.40] upon you -[5083.40 --> 5084.74] the gospel -[5084.74 --> 5085.58] provides a -[5085.58 --> 5086.00] joy -[5086.00 --> 5086.66] that's not -[5086.66 --> 5087.12] dependent -[5087.12 --> 5087.74] upon your -[5087.74 --> 5088.36] feelings -[5088.36 --> 5089.30] the gospel -[5089.30 --> 5089.94] is a -[5089.94 --> 5090.42] truth -[5090.42 --> 5090.98] that is -[5090.98 --> 5091.68] not limited -[5091.68 --> 5092.68] by people's -[5092.68 --> 5093.10] belief -[5093.10 --> 5093.62] in it -[5093.62 --> 5094.20] or not -[5094.20 --> 5096.66] right -[5096.66 --> 5096.94] like -[5096.94 --> 5098.30] Tinkerbell -[5098.30 --> 5099.18] in Peter Pan -[5099.18 --> 5099.60] if you -[5099.60 --> 5099.94] don't -[5099.94 --> 5100.48] believe -[5100.48 --> 5101.30] the -[5101.30 --> 5101.74] fairies -[5101.74 --> 5102.30] die -[5102.30 --> 5104.14] that's -[5104.14 --> 5104.42] not -[5104.42 --> 5104.84] true -[5104.84 --> 5105.14] of -[5105.14 --> 5105.56] Jesus -[5105.56 --> 5106.96] because -[5106.96 --> 5107.20] he's -[5107.20 --> 5107.68] real -[5107.68 --> 5108.22] and it -[5108.22 --> 5108.48] happened -[5108.48 --> 5109.18] in history -[5109.18 --> 5110.06] and whether -[5110.06 --> 5110.52] or not -[5110.52 --> 5111.14] you accept -[5111.14 --> 5111.28] it -[5111.28 --> 5111.46] whether -[5111.46 --> 5111.82] or not -[5111.82 --> 5111.94] you -[5111.94 --> 5112.20] believe -[5112.20 --> 5112.34] it -[5112.34 --> 5112.66] doesn't -[5112.66 --> 5112.98] change -[5112.98 --> 5113.16] the -[5113.16 --> 5113.38] fact -[5113.38 --> 5113.62] that -[5113.62 --> 5113.82] it -[5113.82 --> 5114.54] is -[5114.54 --> 5115.24] true -[5115.24 --> 5116.92] I -[5116.92 --> 5117.08] am -[5117.08 --> 5117.34] not -[5117.34 --> 5117.78] ashamed -[5117.78 --> 5118.08] of the -[5118.08 --> 5118.40] gospel -[5118.40 --> 5118.70] because -[5118.70 --> 5118.98] it is -[5118.98 --> 5119.16] the -[5119.16 --> 5119.62] power -[5119.62 --> 5120.24] of -[5120.24 --> 5120.52] God -[5120.52 --> 5120.70] that -[5120.70 --> 5121.04] brings -[5121.04 --> 5121.64] salvation -[5121.64 --> 5122.00] to -[5122.00 --> 5122.78] everyone -[5122.78 --> 5123.68] who -[5123.68 --> 5124.18] believes -[5124.18 --> 5125.96] don't -[5125.96 --> 5126.12] be -[5126.12 --> 5126.74] ashamed -[5126.74 --> 5127.48] or -[5127.48 --> 5128.18] embarrassed -[5128.18 --> 5128.80] by the -[5128.80 --> 5129.26] offense -[5129.26 --> 5129.72] of the -[5129.72 --> 5130.12] gospel -[5130.12 --> 5130.82] rather -[5130.82 --> 5132.08] like we're -[5132.08 --> 5132.66] about to do -[5132.66 --> 5133.30] in just a -[5133.30 --> 5133.58] moment -[5133.58 --> 5134.70] rather -[5134.70 --> 5135.66] praise -[5135.66 --> 5136.46] the name -[5136.46 --> 5137.28] of the -[5137.28 --> 5137.66] Lord -[5137.66 --> 5138.36] our -[5138.36 --> 5138.72] God -[5138.72 --> 5139.74] praise -[5139.74 --> 5140.04] his -[5140.04 --> 5140.54] name -[5140.54 --> 5141.40] forever -[5141.40 --> 5141.82] more -[5141.82 --> 5142.90] for -[5142.90 --> 5143.58] endless -[5143.58 --> 5144.22] days -[5144.22 --> 5145.14] we -[5145.14 --> 5145.40] will -[5145.40 --> 5145.88] sing -[5145.88 --> 5146.58] your -[5146.58 --> 5147.54] praise -[5147.54 --> 5148.22] amen -[5148.22 --> 5149.72] let's -[5149.72 --> 5149.86] pray -[5149.86 --> 5150.14] together -[5150.14 --> 5153.44] Lord -[5153.44 --> 5153.56] our -[5153.56 --> 5153.74] God -[5153.74 --> 5154.00] your -[5154.00 --> 5154.70] gospel -[5154.70 --> 5155.46] is -[5155.46 --> 5156.16] so -[5156.16 --> 5157.40] amazing -[5157.40 --> 5159.86] your -[5159.86 --> 5160.30] gospel -[5160.30 --> 5160.84] is -[5160.84 --> 5161.52] so -[5161.52 --> 5162.72] profound -[5162.72 --> 5165.36] your -[5165.36 --> 5165.82] gospel -[5165.82 --> 5166.20] is -[5166.20 --> 5166.60] so -[5166.60 --> 5167.46] compelling -[5167.46 --> 5170.76] send -[5170.76 --> 5171.18] us -[5171.18 --> 5171.54] out -[5171.54 --> 5171.92] now -[5171.92 --> 5172.36] in the -[5172.36 --> 5172.82] truth -[5172.82 --> 5173.34] of -[5173.34 --> 5173.66] your -[5173.66 --> 5174.14] gospel -[5174.14 --> 5176.02] the -[5176.02 --> 5176.52] truth -[5176.52 --> 5177.12] of -[5177.12 --> 5177.58] God -[5177.58 --> 5178.00] come -[5178.00 --> 5178.60] down -[5178.60 --> 5179.42] among -[5179.42 --> 5179.88] us -[5179.88 --> 5181.90] the -[5181.90 --> 5182.34] truth -[5182.34 --> 5182.76] of -[5182.76 --> 5183.22] our -[5183.22 --> 5184.02] being -[5184.02 --> 5184.54] made -[5184.54 --> 5185.06] right -[5185.06 --> 5185.86] with -[5185.86 --> 5186.10] you -[5186.10 --> 5188.06] send -[5188.06 --> 5188.26] us -[5188.26 --> 5188.64] out -[5188.64 --> 5188.98] to -[5188.98 --> 5189.48] boldly -[5189.48 --> 5190.06] declare -[5190.06 --> 5191.06] your -[5191.06 --> 5191.80] truth -[5191.80 --> 5192.20] we -[5192.20 --> 5192.50] pray -[5192.50 --> 5193.82] send -[5193.82 --> 5194.00] us -[5194.00 --> 5194.32] out -[5194.32 --> 5194.72] to -[5194.72 --> 5195.68] live -[5195.68 --> 5196.08] a -[5196.08 --> 5196.46] life -[5196.46 --> 5196.76] of -[5196.76 --> 5197.42] praise -[5197.42 --> 5197.70] to -[5197.70 --> 5198.00] you -[5198.00 --> 5199.08] in -[5199.08 --> 5199.40] Jesus -[5199.40 --> 5199.86] name -[5199.86 --> 5201.20] amen -[5201.20 --> 5218.16] for -[5218.16 --> 5218.62] rounded -[5218.62 --> 5219.08] Gonna -[5219.08 --> 5219.38] alive -[5219.38 --> 5219.66] come -[5219.66 --> 5220.70] to -[5220.70 --> 5221.50] and -[5221.50 --> 5222.32] heal -[5222.32 --> 5222.74] How -[5222.74 --> 5222.88] Project -[5222.88 --> 5223.00] 谢 -[5223.00 --> 5223.86] nucle -[5223.86 --> 5224.50] millions -[5224.50 --> 5224.66] of -[5224.66 --> 5233.44] Where Jesus came and died for me -[5233.44 --> 5239.92] I see His wounds, His depths, His feet -[5239.92 --> 5248.14] My Savior, that cursed tree -[5248.14 --> 5259.08] His body bowed and drenched in tears -[5259.08 --> 5266.22] They laid Him down in Joseph's tomb -[5266.22 --> 5273.22] The entrance sealed by heavy storm -[5273.22 --> 5280.22] But sighed out still and all alone -[5280.22 --> 5292.22] O praise the name of the Lord our God -[5293.04 --> 5299.22] O praise His name forevermore -[5299.22 --> 5307.66] For endless days we will sing Your praise -[5307.66 --> 5314.22] O Lord, O Lord our God -[5314.22 --> 5324.66] Then on the third at break of dawn -[5324.66 --> 5331.22] The Son of Heaven rose again -[5331.22 --> 5339.66] O temple dead, where is your sting? -[5339.66 --> 5345.66] The angels roar for Christ the King -[5345.66 --> 5357.10] O praise the name of the Lord our God -[5357.10 --> 5364.10] O praise His name forevermore -[5364.10 --> 5371.10] For endless days we will sing Your praise -[5371.10 --> 5378.54] O Lord, O Lord our God -[5378.54 --> 5381.98] O Lord our God -[5381.98 --> 5388.86] He shall return in robes of white -[5388.86 --> 5396.40] The blazing sun shall pierce the night -[5396.40 --> 5403.88] And I will rise among the saints -[5403.88 --> 5410.84] My gaze transfixed on Jesus' face -[5410.84 --> 5431.10] ôi-o-wاز-reads -[5431.10 --> 5451.26] O praise the name of the Lord our God -[5451.26 --> 5458.36] O praise His name forevermore -[5458.36 --> 5465.26] For endless days we will sing Your praise -[5465.26 --> 5472.00] O Lord, O Lord our God -[5472.00 --> 5479.34] O praise the name of the Lord our God -[5479.34 --> 5486.18] O praise His name forevermore -[5486.18 --> 5493.08] For endless days we will sing Your praise -[5493.08 --> 5499.82] O Lord, O Lord our God -[5499.82 --> 5506.72] O Lord, O Lord our God -[5506.72 --> 5533.80] Before we go into this week ahead, we will receive from God His blessing for our lives of faith and response and gratitude to all that He has done. -[5533.80 --> 5540.70] And as we go this morning, I want to invite you to stick around following service. -[5540.70 --> 5547.60] We have some coffee and refreshments there available. We'd love to connect with you. -[5547.60 --> 5554.50] Also, if you are a first time visitor or if you've been visiting regularly and haven't yet connected with us, we have these cards. -[5554.50 --> 5556.50] They're in your seats there. -[5556.50 --> 5562.50] You can connect with us by filling out one of those and then just dropping it at the connect table on your way out or there's a QR code. -[5562.50 --> 5571.40] You can scan that and then do the online version and someone will reach out to you and see how we might connect with you in that regard. -[5571.40 --> 5580.40] Additionally, after service, if you're looking for prayer, there are people who will be in the back with name tags on with yellow squares on them. -[5580.40 --> 5585.30] They would love to meet you where you're at and pray with you. -[5585.30 --> 5592.40] As we go then receive the blessing of God for our journeys, life and faith in Him together. -[5592.40 --> 5597.40] Lord bless you and keep you. -[5597.40 --> 5602.40] Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[5602.40 --> 5608.40] The Lord turn His face towards you and give you His peace. -[5608.40 --> 5611.40] Amen. -[5611.40 --> 5634.40] May our homes be filled with dancing. -[5634.40 --> 5641.40] May our streets be filled with joy. -[5641.40 --> 5649.40] May your justice bow to Jesus. -[5649.40 --> 5655.40] As the people turn and pray. -[5655.40 --> 5662.40] From the mountain to the valley. -[5662.40 --> 5666.40] Hear our praises. -[5666.40 --> 5669.40] Rise to you. -[5669.40 --> 5677.40] From the heavens to the nations. -[5677.40 --> 5681.40] Hear our singing. -[5681.40 --> 5687.40] Hail the air. -[5687.40 --> 5694.40] May our light shine in the darkness. -[5694.40 --> 5699.40] May our light shine in the darkness. -[5699.40 --> 5708.40] As we walk before the cross. -[5708.40 --> 5714.40] May your glory fill the whole earth. -[5714.40 --> 5715.40] As the water or the sea. -[5715.40 --> 5716.40] As the water or the sea. -[5716.40 --> 5721.40] As the water or the sea. -[5721.40 --> 5729.40] From the mountain to the valley. -[5729.40 --> 5734.40] Hear our praises. -[5734.40 --> 5737.40] Rise to you. -[5737.40 --> 5738.40] From the heavens. -[5738.40 --> 5739.40] From the mountains. -[5739.40 --> 5741.40] To the mountains. -[5741.40 --> 5742.40] Hear our singing. -[5742.40 --> 5747.40] Hear our singing. -[5747.40 --> 5752.40] Fill the air. -[5752.40 --> 5767.40] From the fountain to the valley, here are praises, rise to you. -[5767.40 --> 5782.40] From the heavens to the nations, here are singing LVM. -[5797.40 --> 5827.38] piano plays softly -[5827.40 --> 5857.38] piano plays softly -[5857.40 --> 5887.38] piano plays softly -[5887.38 --> 5899.38] piano plays softly -[5899.38 --> 5901.38] Hey, you... -[5917.38 --> 5931.38] piano plays softly diff --git a/Sunday Worship - January 16, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - January 16, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ff8ee2b906ce2450d7f62f548ae75bbf9cfe33e8..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - January 16, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,69 +0,0 @@ -• Hallelujah and worship songs -• Overcoming unbelief and fear -• Hope rising from ashes and death defeated -• Singing praises in the midst of storm and darkness -• God's presence and voice moving mountains -• Trusting in Him through struggles -• It is well with my soul -• Returning music and folders to Mark -• HCBC event for youth (grades 9-12) -• Reading from Revelation chapter one -• God's greeting to the congregation -• Praise and worship of Jesus as hope, light, and comfort -• Acknowledging Jesus' supremacy and worthiness of praise -• Worship and praise -• Building a life on God's love as a firm foundation -• Trusting in God alone and not being shaken -• Remembering who God is and putting trust in Him -• Prayer for guidance, strength, and hope -• Surrendering to God's plan and will -• Offering service and trusting in God's promise -• World Renew Food Grains Bank special offering -• Canadian government matching donations four to one due to COVID-19 and world shortages -• Scripture references: Proverbs 22:9, Matthew 10:8, Isaiah 8 ( unclear reference) -• Children's blessing and introduction of lesson in children's worship time -• Discussion on leaders in life, including God, parents, Oma and Opa, Jesus, grandparents, aunts, uncles, teachers, and worship leaders -• Discussion about what makes a good leader -• Characteristics of a leader: being patient, having followers and a team, not doing everything alone -• Hydration as another characteristic of a leader (being able to take care of oneself) -• Children's worship time discussion about patience and leadership -• Church service prayer and thanks-giving for various aspects of the congregation and community -• Prayers for physical healing, comfort, and guidance for those affected by COVID and other ailments -• Prayers for leaders and bereaved families within the congregation -• Prayers for comfort and support for those grieving or struggling with difficult situations -• Flood recovery efforts in the province and Abbotsford, and prayer for blessing of work and unity among churches -• Prayer for Kevin and Colleen Breedsfeld after a serious car accident -• Missionary Jared Alcoma's four-month training in Costa Rica -• Prayers for those who have loved ones turned away from God and mental health struggles -• General prayers for deliverance from temptation and evil, and holding to the truth of God's kingdom -• Brief overview of the story of Moses and the burning bush in Exodus 3, including creation, sin, the flood, Abraham, and the Israelites' journey to Egypt -• God introduces himself to Moses as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob -• God explains his plan to rescue the Israelites from Egyptian slavery -• Moses is hesitant and asks who he is to go to Pharaoh -• God reassures Moses that He will be with him -• God gives a sign to confirm His identity -• Moses encounters God in a burning bush and is called into action -• God's introduction of Himself as "I am" emphasizes His constant presence and unchanging character -• God's voice can be encountered through various means, including reading the Bible, podcasts, and people -• God's word is a guide for action and decision-making -• Excuses for not following God's call are common, but God provides support and resources for obedience -• God promises to go with those who follow Him ( Exodus 4:12) -• The Holy Spirit guides and protects believers, and they have the gift of community in the church. -• Encouragement to follow God's plan despite excuses and doubts -• Moses' story in Exodus and parallels with modern-day experiences -• Jesus' mission to free people from captivity of sin and brokenness -• Role of community and support for one another in following God's call -• Importance of faith and obedience, as seen in Moses' faithful response -• Faith and perseverance in the face of adversity -• Moses' decision to leave Egypt and follow God despite potential consequences -• The value of being publicly disgraced for Jesus Christ versus worldly treasures -• The call to action that comes with encountering God -• Responding to God's call, including forgiveness, prayer, serving others, declaring the gospel, and giving resources -• Seeking the Holy Spirit's guidance in determining one's actions and having the courage to follow through. -• God's holiness and separation -• God's presence with the speaker and others -• Priestly blessing from Psalm 6 -• Trust in God despite troubles and fears -• God's love is greater than any challenge or obstacle -• Repeated affirmations of God's greatness and love -• Guitar solos (presumably a musical accompaniment) \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - January 16, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - January 16, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 8e53a0450c8127c076acb3029eca3228dcb9e50e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - January 16, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,813 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 20.60] I raise a hallelujah in the presence of my enemies. -[20.60 --> 33.60] I raise a hallelujah louder than the unbelief. -[33.60 --> 39.60] I raise a hallelujah. -[39.60 --> 44.60] My weapon is a melody. -[44.60 --> 53.60] I raise a hallelujah. -[53.60 --> 56.60] Heaven comes to fight for me. -[56.60 --> 64.60] I'm gonna sing in the middle of the storm. -[64.60 --> 70.60] Louder and louder, you're gonna hear my praises roar. -[70.60 --> 76.60] Up from the ashes, hope will arise. -[76.60 --> 85.60] Death is defeated, the King is alive. -[85.60 --> 100.60] I raise a hallelujah with everything inside of me. -[100.60 --> 108.60] I raise a hallelujah. -[108.60 --> 112.60] I will watch the darkness flee. -[112.60 --> 123.60] I raise a hallelujah in the middle of the mystery. -[123.60 --> 128.60] I raise a hallelujah. -[128.60 --> 131.60] I'll raise a hallelujah. -[131.60 --> 135.60] I feel you lost your hold on me. -[135.60 --> 142.60] I'm gonna sing in the middle of the storm. -[142.60 --> 148.60] Louder and louder, you're gonna hear my praises roar. -[148.60 --> 149.60] leels roar. -[149.60 --> 154.60] Up from the ashes, hope will arise. -[154.60 --> 162.60] Death is defeated, the King is alive. -[162.60 --> 166.14] Sing a little louder -[166.14 --> 169.94] In the presence of my enemies -[169.94 --> 172.14] Sing a little louder -[172.14 --> 176.20] Louder than the unbelief -[176.20 --> 177.96] Sing a little louder -[177.96 --> 181.66] My weapon is a melody -[181.66 --> 184.02] Sing a little louder -[184.02 --> 187.84] Heaven come to fight for me -[187.84 --> 189.60] Sing a little louder -[189.60 --> 193.80] In the presence of my enemies -[193.80 --> 195.38] Sing a little louder -[195.38 --> 199.64] Louder than the unbelief -[199.64 --> 201.42] Sing a little louder -[201.42 --> 205.02] My weapon is a melody -[205.02 --> 207.40] Sing a little louder -[207.40 --> 211.52] Heaven come to fight for me -[211.52 --> 212.92] Sing a little louder -[212.92 --> 216.20] I'm gonna sing -[216.20 --> 219.20] In the middle of the storm -[219.20 --> 222.24] Louder and louder -[222.24 --> 225.56] You're gonna hear my praises roar -[225.56 --> 228.40] Up from the ashes -[228.40 --> 231.16] Hope will arise -[231.16 --> 233.92] Death is defeated -[233.92 --> 237.40] The King in the Rise -[237.40 --> 245.20] Grand Heaven from the ash -[247.50 --> 248.16] Our greatchs -[248.16 --> 248.60] Have a great day -[248.60 --> 249.78] We were peaceful -[249.78 --> 250.72] ée -[250.72 --> 267.12] The Grand Earth has quaked before -[267.12 --> 273.94] Moved by the sound of His voice -[273.94 --> 280.16] And seas that are shaken and stirred -[280.16 --> 286.72] Can be calmed and broken for my regard -[286.72 --> 292.24] And through it all, through it all -[292.24 --> 295.32] My eyes are on you -[295.32 --> 299.48] And through it all, through it all -[299.48 --> 300.98] It is well -[300.98 --> 307.04] And through it all, through it all -[307.04 --> 310.08] My eyes are on you -[310.08 --> 312.50] And it is well -[312.50 --> 315.60] With me -[315.60 --> 331.66] Far be it from me to not believe -[331.66 --> 338.66] Even when my eyes can't see -[338.66 --> 344.76] And this mountain that's in front of me -[344.76 --> 351.38] Will be thrown into the midst of the sea -[351.38 --> 357.44] And through it all, through it all -[357.44 --> 360.48] My eyes are on you -[360.48 --> 364.10] And through it all, through it all -[364.10 --> 365.60] It is well -[365.60 --> 371.82] And through it all, through it all -[371.82 --> 374.88] My eyes are on you -[374.88 --> 377.88] And it is well -[377.88 --> 381.82] It is well -[381.82 --> 386.20] So let go, my soul -[386.20 --> 389.56] And trust in Him -[389.56 --> 391.52] The waves and wind -[391.52 --> 396.58] Still know His name -[396.58 --> 400.62] So let go, my soul -[400.62 --> 403.62] And trust in Him -[403.62 --> 405.00] The waves and wind -[405.00 --> 410.78] Still know His name -[410.78 --> 415.08] So let go, my soul -[415.08 --> 417.84] And trust in Him -[417.84 --> 419.52] The waves and wind -[419.52 --> 422.86] Still know His name -[422.86 --> 424.82] The waves and wind -[424.82 --> 427.04] Still know His name -[427.04 --> 434.04] The waves and winds still know His name. -[437.04 --> 448.04] And it is well with my soul. -[448.04 --> 450.04] Sing it out. -[450.04 --> 464.04] It is well with my soul. -[465.04 --> 479.04] It is well with my soul. -[479.04 --> 484.04] It is well. -[484.04 --> 492.04] It is well with my soul. -[492.04 --> 493.04] Sing it out. -[493.04 --> 495.04] It is well. -[495.04 --> 499.04] Oh, it is well. -[499.04 --> 502.04] It is well. -[502.04 --> 515.04] It is well with my soul. -[515.04 --> 518.04] Good morning, everyone. -[518.04 --> 520.04] Welcome to church this morning. -[520.04 --> 526.04] Those of you who are here, those of you who are joining us online this morning, it is good to see so many faces. -[526.04 --> 530.04] And I don't know, later I will check out the YouTube views and see those faces too, I guess. -[530.04 --> 534.04] We are gathered here today to hear God's word, to sing His praises. -[534.04 --> 538.04] Of course, I've got a couple of announcements this morning before we begin. -[538.04 --> 548.04] The first is an announcement for anybody who was in choir this past Christmas season, but also this past whenever season, the past two, three, five years. -[548.04 --> 553.04] If you have music at home or folders at home, can you please return those to Mark? -[553.04 --> 554.04] Mark is somewhere. -[554.04 --> 555.04] There he is. -[555.04 --> 556.04] He's on the piano. -[556.04 --> 557.04] Bring them to Mark. -[557.04 --> 558.04] You can give it to him at church. -[558.04 --> 560.04] You can put it in his mailbox in the back there. -[560.04 --> 562.04] You don't have to drop by his house. -[562.04 --> 563.04] Like, we can leave the poor guy alone that way. -[563.04 --> 565.04] But like, bring it to church. -[565.04 --> 566.04] Bring the music back to him there. -[566.04 --> 569.04] And then we can kind of make a collection and go from there. -[569.04 --> 570.04] The second is for youth. -[570.04 --> 574.04] Youth tonight, if you're in grades nine to 12, we have HCBC tonight. -[574.04 --> 577.04] So come on out at seven o'clock for Belgic Confession and Catechism. -[577.04 --> 579.04] We'll see you then. -[579.04 --> 582.04] I am going to invite you all to rise. -[582.04 --> 585.04] I believe we're doing God's greeting right now, right? -[585.04 --> 587.04] I didn't have... -[587.04 --> 590.04] All right. -[590.04 --> 596.04] God's greeting this morning comes to us from Revelation chapter one, where it says this. -[596.04 --> 597.04] Please receive God's greeting. -[597.04 --> 603.04] Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven -[603.04 --> 609.04] spirits that are before his throne, and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, -[609.04 --> 614.04] the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. -[614.04 --> 616.04] And all God's people said, amen. -[616.04 --> 617.04] Take a moment. -[617.04 --> 620.04] We're not going to shake hands, but take a moment, give some winks, some nods, look around, -[620.04 --> 622.04] say hi, take 30 seconds to do that. -[622.04 --> 624.04] Text some people if you're at home as well. -[624.04 --> 625.04] Just a moment. -[625.04 --> 626.04] Jesus. -[626.04 --> 639.04] Hope of the nations. -[639.04 --> 653.44] Jesus, hope of the nations, there is none like you, O Lord, nor are there any works like yours. -[654.10 --> 660.72] All the nations you have made shall come and bow down before you, O Lord, and shall glorify your name. -[661.50 --> 666.38] For you are the great and do wondrous things, for you alone are God. -[669.04 --> 670.04] Amen. -[682.98 --> 697.04] Jesus, hope of the nations, Jesus, comfort for all who mourn, you are the source of heaven's hope on earth. -[698.04 --> 705.60] Jesus, light in the darkness, Jesus, truth in each circumstance. -[707.04 --> 712.48] You are the source of heaven's light on earth. -[712.48 --> 720.48] In history you lived and died, you broke the chains, you rose to life. -[721.48 --> 734.48] You are the hope living in us, you are the rock in whom we trust, you are the light shining for all the world to see. -[734.48 --> 744.48] You rose from the dead, conquering fear, our prince of peace, drawing us near. -[744.48 --> 750.48] Jesus, our hope living for all who will receive. -[751.48 --> 753.48] Lord, we believe. -[753.48 --> 775.48] Jesus, hope of the nations, Jesus, comfort for all who mourn, you are the source of heaven's hope on earth. -[775.48 --> 783.48] Jesus, light in the darkness, Jesus, truth in each circumstance. -[783.48 --> 791.48] Jesus, light in the darkness, you are the source of heaven's light on earth. -[792.48 --> 799.48] Jesus, light in the darkness, you are the hope living in us. -[799.48 --> 814.48] You are the rock in whom we trust, you are the light shining for all the world to see. -[814.48 --> 822.48] You rose from the dead, conquering fear, our prince of peace, drawing us near. -[823.48 --> 829.48] Jesus, our hope living for all who will receive. -[830.48 --> 833.48] Lord, we believe. -[834.48 --> 837.48] Lord, we believe. -[838.48 --> 842.48] Lord, we believe. -[844.48 --> 867.48] Lord, we believe. -[867.48 --> 872.78] Worthy of all the praise we could ever bring. -[875.56 --> 880.20] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe. -[880.52 --> 882.42] We live for you. -[890.04 --> 895.18] Jesus, the name above every other name. -[897.48 --> 902.68] Jesus, the only one who could ever sing. -[905.08 --> 909.68] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe. -[909.86 --> 911.94] We live for you. -[913.06 --> 915.50] Oh, we live for you. -[918.60 --> 923.70] Holy, there is no one like you. -[923.70 --> 926.70] There is none beside you. -[927.48 --> 932.68] Open up my eyes in wonder. -[932.68 --> 936.56] And show me who you are. -[936.56 --> 940.30] And fill me with your heart. -[940.30 --> 948.30] And lead me in your love to those around me. -[948.30 --> 955.50] Jesus, the name above every other name. -[955.50 --> 968.70] Jesus, the name above every other name. -[968.70 --> 976.58] Jesus, the only one who could ever sing. -[976.58 --> 981.78] Jesus, the only one who could ever breathe. -[981.78 --> 982.98] We live for you. -[982.98 --> 983.18] Jesus, the only one who could ever breathe. -[983.18 --> 984.98] We live for you. -[984.98 --> 985.98] Jesus, the only one who could ever breathe. -[985.98 --> 986.98] We live for you. -[986.98 --> 988.98] Oh, we live for you. -[988.98 --> 997.18] Holy, there is no one like you. -[997.18 --> 1000.18] There is none beside you. -[1000.18 --> 1005.38] Open up my eyes in wonder. -[1005.38 --> 1009.58] And show me who you are. -[1009.58 --> 1014.02] And fill me with your heart. -[1014.02 --> 1021.58] And lead me in your love to those around me. -[1021.58 --> 1039.78] And I will build my life upon your love. -[1039.78 --> 1050.98] It is a firm foundation. -[1050.98 --> 1058.78] And I will put my trust in you alone. -[1058.78 --> 1065.78] And I will not be shaken. -[1065.78 --> 1073.78] And I will build my life upon your love. -[1073.78 --> 1079.78] It is a firm foundation. -[1079.78 --> 1088.78] And I will put my trust in you alone. -[1088.78 --> 1094.78] And I will not be shaken. -[1094.78 --> 1100.78] Holy, there is no one like you. -[1100.78 --> 1104.78] There is none beside you. -[1104.78 --> 1110.78] Open up my eyes in wonder. -[1110.78 --> 1114.78] And show me who you are. -[1114.78 --> 1118.78] And fill me with your heart. -[1118.78 --> 1128.78] And lead me in your love to those around me. -[1128.78 --> 1135.78] Lord, we gather before you to worship you. -[1135.78 --> 1138.78] We sing praises of your greatness. -[1138.78 --> 1142.78] That you are worthy of all the praise we could ever bring. -[1142.78 --> 1145.78] There is no one like you, oh God. -[1145.78 --> 1148.78] We sing of how we will build our foundation. -[1148.78 --> 1151.78] The foundation of our life on your love. -[1151.78 --> 1153.78] How we will put our trust in you alone. -[1153.78 --> 1156.78] And we will not be shaken. -[1156.78 --> 1163.78] How often, oh Lord, do we leave this place and leave our awareness of you at the door. -[1163.78 --> 1168.78] How often do we enter back into the fear, the anger, the pain, the heartache, -[1168.78 --> 1170.78] forgetting who you are. -[1170.78 --> 1174.78] Forgetting who we are in you. -[1174.78 --> 1179.78] Those who know you, who know your name, put their trust in you. -[1179.78 --> 1183.78] For you, oh Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you. -[1183.78 --> 1188.78] Let your name be on our lips, both in our need and in our joys. -[1188.78 --> 1193.78] That we may find you always there beside us to give us hope and strength. -[1193.78 --> 1195.78] In your name we pray, amen. -[1195.78 --> 1196.78] We pray, amen. -[1196.78 --> 1197.78] We pray, amen. -[1197.78 --> 1198.78] But every name is God. -[1198.78 --> 1199.78] We pray, amen. -[1199.78 --> 1200.78] Thank you, amen. -[1200.78 --> 1201.78] Thank you. -[1201.78 --> 1204.78] To every pulling another digestion,甜 from nai rs need oundred chysine. -[1204.78 --> 1214.78] Thanks, amen. -[1214.78 --> 1216.28] Amen. -[1216.28 --> 1228.44] If you but trust in God to guide you -[1228.44 --> 1234.70] And place your confidence in Him -[1234.70 --> 1240.86] You'll find Him always there beside you -[1240.86 --> 1246.64] To give you hope and strength within -[1246.64 --> 1253.86] For those who trust God's changeless love -[1253.86 --> 1261.42] Build on the rock that will not move -[1261.42 --> 1269.28] Only be still and wait His pleasure -[1269.28 --> 1275.28] In cheerful hope, with heart content -[1275.28 --> 1282.70] He fills your need to fullest measure -[1282.70 --> 1289.62] With what discerning love has sent -[1289.62 --> 1296.52] Doubt not our inmost wants are known -[1296.52 --> 1303.52] To Him who chose us for His own -[1303.52 --> 1311.52] Pray and keep His ways unswerving -[1311.52 --> 1317.52] Offer your service faithfully -[1317.52 --> 1324.52] And trust His word, though undeserving -[1324.52 --> 1331.52] You'll find His promise true to be -[1331.52 --> 1338.52] God never will forsake in need -[1338.52 --> 1345.52] To a soul that trusts in Him -[1345.52 --> 1346.52] Indeed -[1346.52 --> 1349.52] Indeed -[1349.52 --> 1351.52] Amen. -[1379.52 --> 1398.32] I know for sure all of my days are held in your hand, crafted into your perfect plan. -[1398.32 --> 1411.92] You gently call me into your presence, guiding me by your Holy Spirit. -[1411.92 --> 1424.78] Teach me, dear Lord, to live all my life through your eyes. -[1424.78 --> 1430.60] I'm captured by your holy calling. -[1431.60 --> 1440.10] Set me apart, I know you're drawing me to yourself. -[1440.82 --> 1444.66] Lead me, Lord, I pray. -[1444.66 --> 1460.48] Take me, mold me, use me, fill me. -[1460.48 --> 1469.30] I give my life to the potter's hand. -[1469.30 --> 1479.12] Call me, guide me. -[1479.12 --> 1485.12] Lead me, walk beside me. -[1485.12 --> 1495.32] I give my life to the potter's hand. -[1495.32 --> 1506.94] Beautiful Lord, wonderful Savior, I know for sure. -[1506.94 --> 1520.48] All of my days are held in your hand, crafted into your perfect plan. -[1522.48 --> 1530.94] You gently call me into your presence, guiding me by. -[1530.94 --> 1546.64] Your Holy Spirit, teach me, dear Lord, to live all my life through your eyes. -[1546.64 --> 1552.64] I'm captured by your holy calling. -[1552.64 --> 1561.50] Set me apart, I know you're drawing me to yourself. -[1561.50 --> 1566.34] Lead me, Lord, I pray. -[1566.34 --> 1582.34] Take me, mold me, use me, fill me. -[1582.34 --> 1590.34] I give my life to the potter's hand. -[1590.34 --> 1620.32] Take me, Lord, I pray. -[1620.34 --> 1622.50] You may be seated. -[1622.50 --> 1643.16] Good morning. -[1643.16 --> 1646.92] Good morning. -[1646.92 --> 1648.92] Good morning. -[1648.92 --> 1653.20] Today, this week's offering is to support the operations and ministries and missions -[1653.20 --> 1656.48] of our church by supporting our budget. -[1656.48 --> 1661.34] And the special offering today is for the World Renew Food Grains Bank. -[1661.34 --> 1665.82] Next week, the offering will be for the budget as well as for the Gateway Hope Shelter here -[1665.82 --> 1667.36] in our neighbourhood. -[1667.36 --> 1671.32] So World Renew, as many of you know, is a CRC organisation that has an account with the -[1671.32 --> 1672.32] Canadian Food Grains Bank. -[1672.32 --> 1679.46] And they can draw on that and then support various projects and so forth that they have -[1679.46 --> 1680.88] all around the world. -[1680.88 --> 1686.32] They are currently quite busy because of COVID-19 and the shortages in various parts of the world, -[1686.32 --> 1690.32] the droughts, the war, the conflict and so forth. -[1690.32 --> 1696.60] So, currently, the Canadian government is matching donations four to one, which is amazing. -[1696.60 --> 1701.60] So, your gift will go five times as far as it would normally. -[1701.60 --> 1706.96] So, we are quite thrilled by that. -[1706.96 --> 1711.32] If you want more information as to exactly where they're busy, there is a link in the -[1711.32 --> 1717.36] bulletin that you can click on and that will take you to their website and you can update -[1717.36 --> 1719.60] yourself if you're more curious. -[1719.60 --> 1726.60] Proverbs 22, verse 9 states, The generous will themselves be blessed for they share their -[1726.60 --> 1728.60] food with the poor. -[1728.60 --> 1739.32] And Matthew 10, verse 8, Jesus commands, Freely you have received, so freely give. -[1739.32 --> 1744.42] As we play through the offering song instrumentally, the words will follow along on the screen and -[1744.42 --> 1748.36] we invite you to reflect on them during the offering. -[1748.36 --> 1749.36] that, Isaiah 8, Jesus shows the beautiful. -[1749.36 --> 1750.62] Inmudic Illumaticλε归 is bigger, wherever you are . -[1750.62 --> 1754.36] So, today, I come forward to providing a grant of truth as you can hear from the -[1754.36 --> 1755.36] points that you have received resources online. -[1755.36 --> 1758.36] Now, if you have read through the offering, there is a number of questions that sent down -[1758.36 --> 1760.36] ? -[1760.36 --> 1763.36] The多少 money for the Lu Toldurianhay investigationtypeics -[1763.36 --> 1765.36] will be JOSHUAWitations sitcom . -[1765.36 --> 1768.36] As a emperor店 broadcast Bitcoin and SophiaAN College of Christmas -[1768.36 --> 1769.36] , It's��assishcer Vanessa Campionário -[1769.36 --> 1770.98] and haunted Aunque desta miss place as you can see -[1771.36 --> 1772.36] The mindedões that were drawn into in our country in?? -[1772.36 --> 1775.36] Thevidemmentomedic tipos of the lighthouse are prepared. -[1775.36 --> 1777.36] Amen. -[1805.36 --> 1807.36] Amen. -[1835.36 --> 1837.36] Amen. -[1865.36 --> 1867.36] Amen. -[1895.36 --> 1897.36] Amen. -[1925.36 --> 1927.36] Amen. -[1927.36 --> 1929.36] Amen. -[1929.36 --> 1931.36] Amen. -[1931.36 --> 1933.36] Amen. -[1933.36 --> 1935.36] Amen. -[1935.36 --> 1937.36] Amen. -[1937.36 --> 1939.36] Amen. -[1939.36 --> 1943.36] Good morning. -[1943.36 --> 1949.36] If you're four and under, come on up for the children's blessing. -[1949.36 --> 1959.36] And I have a few little questions for you guys to introduce today's lesson in children's worship time. -[1959.36 --> 1965.36] Oh man, there's lots of you guys today. Church is really full today. That's kind of nice. -[1965.36 --> 1969.36] I have some questions for you guys, as usual. -[1969.36 --> 1972.36] I wasn't organized enough to get this on the screen. -[1972.36 --> 1974.36] Do you guys know who this lady is? -[1974.36 --> 1976.36] The Queen. -[1976.36 --> 1978.36] That was quick. -[1978.36 --> 1981.36] All right, Queen Elizabeth. Let's see. Let's see another picture. -[1981.36 --> 1983.36] That is Queen Elizabeth. -[1983.36 --> 1985.36] Do you know who this guy is? -[1985.36 --> 1988.36] Not the king, thankfully. -[1988.36 --> 1989.36] Yeah. -[1989.36 --> 1991.36] Huh? -[1991.36 --> 1995.36] Anyone know who this guy is? -[1995.36 --> 1998.36] A church man? Not quite. -[1998.36 --> 2001.36] We don't know him because of that. -[2001.36 --> 2004.36] Is he a man who works in a big office? -[2004.36 --> 2007.36] He does work in a really big office. -[2007.36 --> 2011.36] Oh, he's not a doctor. That's an important person, too. -[2011.36 --> 2013.36] This is the Prime Minister of Canada. -[2014.36 --> 2016.36] Prime Minister Trudeau. Right? -[2017.36 --> 2019.36] That's one more picture. Who's this guy? -[2021.36 --> 2022.36] Pastor Chris. -[2022.36 --> 2024.36] He's also an important guy. -[2024.36 --> 2025.36] Do you know what is one thing? -[2025.36 --> 2026.36] I picked up some pictures. -[2026.36 --> 2028.36] These are all different leaders. -[2028.36 --> 2030.36] From who? -[2030.36 --> 2031.36] Leaders of people. -[2031.36 --> 2034.36] Leaders of important things. -[2034.36 --> 2038.36] Do you guys know of any leaders in your life? -[2038.36 --> 2039.36] Pastor Chris is in your life. -[2039.36 --> 2041.36] We see him all the time. -[2041.36 --> 2043.36] Who are other leaders in your life? -[2043.36 --> 2044.36] God. -[2044.36 --> 2046.36] God is a huge leader in our life. -[2046.36 --> 2047.36] Who's another leader? -[2047.36 --> 2049.36] Your mom and dad. -[2049.36 --> 2054.36] Oma and Opa are leaders in many ways. -[2054.36 --> 2057.36] Jesus is an amazing leader. -[2057.36 --> 2059.36] What do you think, Malachi? -[2059.36 --> 2061.36] Grandma and grandpas are leaders. -[2061.36 --> 2063.36] Did you have one, Ila? -[2063.36 --> 2066.36] Auntes and uncles can be leaders. -[2066.36 --> 2068.36] Others may be teachers. -[2068.36 --> 2071.36] We even have worship leaders in front of the church. -[2071.36 --> 2073.36] Lots of people who lead. -[2073.36 --> 2076.36] What makes a good leader? -[2076.36 --> 2078.36] This could be interesting. -[2078.36 --> 2080.36] What makes a good leader? -[2080.36 --> 2084.36] Who helps the team out? -[2084.36 --> 2086.36] That is such a good answer. -[2086.36 --> 2089.36] What are other things that make a good leader? -[2089.36 --> 2093.36] Jesus helps people be good leaders for sure. -[2093.36 --> 2095.36] What are other characteristics? -[2095.36 --> 2098.36] Are they people who are in charge of stuff? -[2098.36 --> 2099.36] Yeah. -[2099.36 --> 2102.36] Do leaders do everything by themselves? -[2102.36 --> 2104.36] They are not supposed to, right? -[2104.36 --> 2106.36] They are supposed to have followers. -[2106.36 --> 2108.36] They are supposed to have a team. -[2108.36 --> 2109.36] Yeah. -[2109.36 --> 2114.36] So, another characteristic about a leader is someone who is also very patient. -[2114.36 --> 2115.36] That's a tricky one. -[2115.36 --> 2120.36] So, we are going to talk a lot more today in children's worship time about good leading -[2120.36 --> 2123.36] and about patient leaders. -[2123.36 --> 2125.36] What's that, Hayley? -[2125.36 --> 2126.36] What does that mean? -[2126.36 --> 2128.36] What does that mean? -[2128.36 --> 2129.36] What does that mean? -[2129.36 --> 2130.36] What does that mean? -[2130.36 --> 2131.36] What does that mean? -[2131.36 --> 2132.36] Is it that leaders need water? -[2132.36 --> 2133.36] Oh! -[2133.36 --> 2134.36] Yeah. -[2134.36 --> 2135.36] Sometimes leaders need water too. -[2135.36 --> 2136.36] That's right. -[2136.36 --> 2137.36] Yep. -[2137.36 --> 2138.36] Yep. -[2138.36 --> 2139.36] They keep hydrated. -[2139.36 --> 2141.36] Another great characteristic of a leader. -[2141.36 --> 2142.36] Sure. -[2142.36 --> 2146.36] Why don't we stand and we'll do the children's blessing and then we'll talk more about patience -[2146.36 --> 2153.92] and leadership in children's worship time. All right, arms up, extend to the -[2153.92 --> 2161.10] congregation, ready? The Lord be with you. All right, let's go to children's worship time. -[2176.36 --> 2194.54] Good morning. So my name is Ken, and I'm an elder here at Emanuel, and it's good to be -[2194.54 --> 2197.66] gathered together this morning. I see so many people that I haven't seen in a while, -[2197.66 --> 2202.24] so it's good to see us all here this morning. And for those online, just like every other Sunday -[2202.24 --> 2206.70] morning, we have the opportunity to gather together and come to our Lord in prayer. And -[2206.70 --> 2211.98] as a community, we can bring our thanks to God and our concerns and our petitions to our -[2211.98 --> 2215.56] Lord. And so let's gather our hearts and minds together, and let's do that right now as we -[2215.56 --> 2223.60] come to God in prayer. Our Father in heaven, our Savior Jesus, Holy Spirit, we come to you -[2223.60 --> 2228.46] with our hearts lifted up again to the knowledge and the wonder of the grace you work in our lives. -[2228.46 --> 2234.26] Our Lord and our God, you are holy, almighty, and everlasting, the creator and sustainer of -[2234.26 --> 2240.14] everything. And the reality that we can approach you as we are now is such an amazing and overwhelming -[2240.14 --> 2247.12] display of grace. As we have sung your praises this morning and have been reminded again how you never -[2247.12 --> 2252.92] fail to hold us fast, even when we get distracted by ourselves, our hearts are moved to overwhelming -[2252.92 --> 2259.04] joy and thanksgiving for everything you do and have done for us. And we turn to you with our -[2259.04 --> 2263.60] trials and burdens, knowing again that you work all things together for our salvation. -[2264.88 --> 2269.22] We thank you, Lord, for the opportunity we have to gather together as a congregational family, -[2269.54 --> 2274.72] both here in person and online. We thank you for this body of believers who care for each other -[2274.72 --> 2280.18] and support each other and work together to declare the salvation we know with our community here in -[2280.18 --> 2284.84] Langley and the extended communities that we are part of through each member of Emmanuel. -[2285.88 --> 2292.24] We pray that you work through us with the power to give us boldness and to help us live lives and -[2292.24 --> 2298.40] speak truth of the gospel to the people we encounter day to day. Lord, we pray for all the ministries of -[2298.40 --> 2303.48] our local church body and of our denomination, that you will bless these ministries and use them for -[2303.48 --> 2308.80] your kingdom glory. We thank you for the heart of service and support for the ministries of Emmanuel -[2308.80 --> 2314.76] that you have instilled in our congregation. We ask that you help us continue to bring our first -[2314.76 --> 2321.36] fruits of our time, resources, and our hearts to you. We pray, Lord, for the leadership of Emmanuel, -[2321.94 --> 2327.82] for the pastors and staff, and for the leadership of the Christian Reformed denomination. Please grant -[2327.82 --> 2333.62] them all wisdom and the hearts tuned to your will to lead your church in a ministry to a world that -[2333.62 --> 2339.66] often seems to be turning away from its God and creator. We also pray, Lord, for the leaders of -[2339.66 --> 2345.66] our country, of our provinces, municipalities, and of our health authorities, as they have a very -[2345.66 --> 2350.74] difficult task of navigating and leading through the current challenges. Grant them wisdom, Lord. -[2351.80 --> 2356.58] We pray for those in our congregation who are sick with COVID at this time and with other ailments. -[2357.08 --> 2362.68] We pray, Lord, that you bring physical healing and let each person feel your nearness and presence, -[2362.68 --> 2367.72] especially for those who need to isolate or maintain distance from loved ones. -[2369.44 --> 2373.54] Lord, we have a number of congregation members, too, who have recently lost loved ones. -[2374.12 --> 2379.10] We grieve together with them, Father, and we think of especially Jeff and Karine Muller and Rick and -[2379.10 --> 2383.88] Sam Wolders' families with the passing of Jeff's dad and Sam's brother-in-law, George Muller. -[2384.64 --> 2389.12] And be especially near to Rick and Sam Wolders, as shortly after George Muller passed, -[2389.12 --> 2394.54] Rick's sister Barb also passed away. Have an extra measure of grace on their lives, Lord. -[2395.48 --> 2401.56] And we pray also for Bob and Louise Viss with the passing of Louise's mom in Ontario. We pray for -[2401.56 --> 2407.50] each of these people for your comfort and support to come in their lives and for your continued comfort -[2407.50 --> 2413.34] for those who have lost loved ones longer ago and still grieve and miss them. We also pray, -[2413.34 --> 2418.70] Father, for those who have been through difficult events recently. We pray for the flood recovery -[2418.70 --> 2423.06] taking place throughout our province and in Abbotsford, that you would bless the work of -[2423.06 --> 2428.82] everyone that is helping with the cleanup and repairs. Lord, please use this catastrophe. Let -[2428.82 --> 2434.02] it build your kingdom and help it unite churches together as we come together to support the efforts. -[2434.02 --> 2440.66] We pray also for Kevin and Colleen Breedsfeld, Lord, nephew to Marilyn Heinen, who were in a very -[2440.66 --> 2447.02] serious car accident this week. Help them recover quickly and fully. We pray for those in missions. -[2447.56 --> 2452.48] We lift up Jared Alcoma, who's traveling to Costa Rica to Bible College in Cape and Ray for four months -[2452.48 --> 2459.02] of leadership development and mission training. We pray, Father, that during this time he would grow, -[2459.02 --> 2464.00] that Jared would become a disciple for you, and that you would use Jared and prepare him for the -[2464.00 --> 2471.10] many ways that you will call him to use his skills and leadership that he is learning at this time. -[2472.40 --> 2477.74] And we pray, Lord, for those who have loved ones who have turned away from you. We ask that you work -[2477.74 --> 2484.70] in their hearts and draw them near to you again. Help us to continue to pray and to continue to hold out -[2484.70 --> 2491.04] our thoughts and prayers for these people. Lord, we pray for those who are struggling with mental health -[2491.04 --> 2496.64] as well, with addictions, chronic pain and illness, and so many other daily challenges. -[2497.38 --> 2503.78] We ask for your healing and restoration in each of their lives. Lord, we all face trials, and we all -[2503.78 --> 2507.76] have temptations that can disrupt our lives and distract us from living our lives for you. -[2508.62 --> 2513.30] And we come together and ask you, Lord, to lead us away from temptation, that you would deliver us from -[2513.30 --> 2519.86] the evil one who wants to snare us in his traps of deceit. Hold us to the truth that the kingdom is -[2519.86 --> 2525.94] yours, all the power is yours, and all of the glory is yours, God, forever and ever. We pray these things -[2525.94 --> 2528.04] in the name of our Savior Jesus. Amen. -[2528.04 --> 2555.10] Good morning, everyone. -[2555.10 --> 2562.76] Good morning, everyone. We are going to continue our sermon series today through the book of Exodus, -[2562.98 --> 2569.14] and we're going to be looking at Exodus chapter 3 this morning, the story of Moses and the burning bush. -[2569.90 --> 2573.34] So I encourage you, pull out your Bibles, your phones, whatever you've got with you, you can turn -[2573.34 --> 2579.86] to that right now. And as you turn to that in your Bibles, though, we are going to look at how we got here -[2579.86 --> 2586.00] in the story of Scripture. So strap yourself in, sit back, keep your arms and legs inside the sanctuary -[2586.00 --> 2589.62] or your living room or wherever you're sitting, because we're going to go full throttle -[2589.62 --> 2593.86] through Genesis and the first couple chapters of Exodus, and we're going to do it in 300 words, and we're going to do it -[2593.86 --> 2597.78] quickly. So here we go. God created the heavens and the earth. However, -[2598.30 --> 2601.44] humanity sinned and brought in brokenness to this world. -[2601.44 --> 2608.58] God kicked mankind out of the garden, and they began to work, and they began to multiply, and they kept sinning. -[2608.98 --> 2616.04] Generations went by, and humanity's sin grew and grew and grew, and so God flooded the world, killing everyone -[2616.04 --> 2621.82] but Noah and his family. God then made a promise that he was going to save the world a different -[2621.82 --> 2627.50] way, and it all started with a man named Abraham. He would become the start of a nation, -[2627.50 --> 2632.96] and that nation would become great. God would be their God, and they would be his people, and from -[2632.96 --> 2641.32] them the world would be saved from sin and brokenness forever. Abraham had a son Isaac. Isaac had a son -[2641.32 --> 2649.84] Jacob. Jacob had 12 sons, one of whom was Joseph, and Joseph was sold by his brothers to Egypt as a slave. -[2650.04 --> 2655.74] He went through a whole ton of stuff in Egypt and ended up actually saving them from a giant famine years -[2655.74 --> 2664.14] later. Joseph's extended family of 70 fled to Egypt to escape this famine, reunited with Joseph, and settled -[2664.14 --> 2671.70] down. And then over 400 years, this family of 70 people grew to a number so large that the Pharaoh, -[2671.90 --> 2680.02] the Egyptian Pharaoh got nervous, so nervous that he issued a decree telling the Egyptian soldiers to kill -[2680.02 --> 2686.10] all of the Israelite boys and drown them in the river. But as we heard last week in the first chapter of -[2686.10 --> 2692.84] Exodus, Moses was spared from this. He was put inside of a basket and floated down the river where Pharaoh's -[2692.84 --> 2700.74] daughter found him and raised him in the palace. Then in Exodus chapter 2, when Moses was about 40 years old, -[2700.80 --> 2706.78] he witnesses an Egyptian man beating an Israelite, and when he thought no one was looking, he murdered -[2706.78 --> 2712.80] this Egyptian man and hid the body. But soon he was called out by an Israelite for doing so. -[2713.18 --> 2720.20] This terrified Moses, and he fled into the wilderness, running away from Egypt. He met a man there named Jethro. -[2720.36 --> 2726.88] He married one of his daughters. He had a son, and he started to live his life as a shepherd, which he did that -[2726.88 --> 2732.74] for 40 years as well. And then we get to our text today. You all still with me? -[2732.74 --> 2740.22] Perfect. Okay, so Exodus 3, verses 1 to 14. We read this. -[2741.42 --> 2747.08] Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest of Midian, and he led the -[2747.08 --> 2753.76] flock to the far side of the wilderness and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. There the angel of the -[2753.76 --> 2760.66] Lord appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that the bush was on fire, -[2760.66 --> 2766.02] but it did not burn up. So Moses thought, I will go over and see this strange sight, why the bush does -[2766.02 --> 2771.36] not burn up. When the Lord saw that he had gone over to look, God called to him from within the bush, -[2771.56 --> 2779.10] Moses, Moses. And Moses said, here I am. Do not come any closer, God said. Take off your sandals, -[2779.34 --> 2784.62] for the place where you are standing is holy ground. Then he said, I am the God of your father, -[2784.62 --> 2792.32] the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. At this, Moses hid his face because he was -[2792.32 --> 2799.88] afraid to look at God. The Lord said, I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt. I have heard -[2799.88 --> 2806.30] them crying out because of their slave drivers, and I am concerned about their suffering. So I have come -[2806.30 --> 2812.56] down to rescue them from the hand of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of the land into good and -[2812.56 --> 2818.44] spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey, the home of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, -[2818.66 --> 2824.06] Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites. And now the cry of the Israelites has reached me, and I have seen the -[2824.06 --> 2832.30] way the Egyptians are oppressing them. So now go, I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people, -[2832.38 --> 2839.30] the Israelites, out of Egypt. But Moses said to God, who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring -[2839.30 --> 2846.36] the Israelites out of Egypt? And God said, I will be with you. And this will be a sign to you that it -[2846.36 --> 2851.26] is who I have sent you, that is I who has sent you. When you have brought the people out of Egypt, -[2851.64 --> 2858.46] you will worship God at this mountain. Moses said to God, suppose I go to the Israelites and say to him, -[2858.82 --> 2864.52] the God of your fathers, your fathers has sent me to you. And they asked me, what is his name? -[2864.52 --> 2873.72] Then what shall I tell them? God said, I am who I am. This is what you are to say to the Israelites. -[2874.42 --> 2879.24] I am has sent me to you. The word of the Lord. -[2883.64 --> 2892.26] Moses encounters God. He sees a burning bush. And he notices that it isn't burning up, and so he -[2892.26 --> 2899.80] investigates. And as he's looking at this weird sight, God himself speaks from the bush to Moses. -[2900.80 --> 2907.90] That's a cool story. It's a huge moment, too, in the grand narrative of God's redemption plan in -[2907.90 --> 2916.10] scripture. And it's also a story that teaches us that when we encounter God, we are called to action. -[2917.72 --> 2922.06] Now let's look at this encounter. Moses checks out the burning bush, and then God speaks to him. God -[2922.06 --> 2928.44] tells him to take off his sandals, and then in verse 6, God introduces himself, which is a really nice -[2928.44 --> 2933.98] thing to do when you're meeting someone in person for the first time. So God says, I am the God of your -[2933.98 --> 2941.46] father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. And then at the end of our text, too, -[2941.50 --> 2948.84] when Moses asks, who should I tell them sent me? God responds similarly, and he says, I am who I am. -[2948.84 --> 2964.36] Tell them I am has sent me to you. I am. I am the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. I am who I am. That's how God -[2964.36 --> 2974.96] introduces himself to Moses. Not I was. See that? Not I was the God of Abraham, because Abraham is long gone -[2974.96 --> 2988.98] at this point. But God isn't. I am the God of Abraham. I am who I am. God is constant. He is unchanging. His character is true. -[2989.30 --> 2997.42] His promises are certain. He is and was and is to come. And no matter where you are in that, whether it is now, -[2997.42 --> 3007.08] or was, or will be, it is always I am with God. God always is. Him saying I am is not actually some -[3007.08 --> 3014.38] sort of code that we need to dig into, though we definitely could. God is God. Always. Never swerving, -[3014.50 --> 3022.26] never changing. In this day, in days past, in days future, God always is. And our language kind of fails -[3022.26 --> 3028.52] fails us here. And our minds can't fully comprehend that God existed before time began, -[3028.52 --> 3036.98] and he will exist when time ends. And he continues to exist both inside and outside of time as we know it. -[3038.52 --> 3045.50] He has always been. He always will be. There is nothing more constant, more present, more consistent -[3045.50 --> 3056.56] than God. I am who I am. And what's more from this introduction is that by introducing himself as the God of Moses' -[3056.82 --> 3065.82] fathers, of Abraham, of Isaac, of Jacob, God is reminding Moses of the covenant promises he made to Abraham -[3065.82 --> 3073.72] and his descendants. God says, I am Abraham's God, the God of your fathers. I am the God of the covenant promises -[3073.72 --> 3081.00] I made, the promise where you will be my people and I will be your God. This has been true and is still true. -[3081.88 --> 3087.90] And this will always be true. That was the covenant God made with his people. And Moses and the Israelites, -[3088.66 --> 3095.78] by this introduction, were being invited into this promise. I am who I am. -[3095.78 --> 3105.22] Moses encountered God, and then God called him into action. Verse 10, God says to Moses, -[3105.46 --> 3110.98] I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people, the Israelites, out of Egypt. -[3112.96 --> 3120.16] When we encounter God, we are called into action. But Moses didn't love that idea, though. He didn't -[3120.16 --> 3123.94] love that idea. So throughout chapter 3 and then into chapter 4, which we didn't even read, -[3123.94 --> 3130.10] he comes up with a whole bunch of excuses about why he shouldn't go, why he shouldn't listen to this -[3130.10 --> 3138.82] call to action. Just listen to some of them. He says, who am I? What shall I say? What if they doubt me? -[3140.10 --> 3146.00] I can't speak in front of people. Finally, he actually just says to God, no, send someone else. -[3146.00 --> 3153.92] A long time ago, many moons ago, I heard a teaching on this text where the teacher commented that he -[3153.92 --> 3159.88] found it so strange and so ridiculous that Moses, after seeing and hearing the voice of God, -[3160.94 --> 3165.88] would come up with all these excuses to not do what God says. And maybe you sit here, maybe you agree -[3165.88 --> 3170.12] with that. I mean, I kind of did. I mean, God has literally just introduced himself to Moses, -[3170.12 --> 3175.72] Moses. And Moses instantly starts saying, nah, no, no, I'm gonna, I'm not gonna do that. Like, -[3175.74 --> 3183.62] how can he do that? God was just speaking to him. Like, just listen, man. But we're all guilty of this, -[3183.66 --> 3190.76] aren't we? I mean, sure, God hasn't spoken to us through a burning bush, per se, at least not that -[3190.76 --> 3199.26] I've heard of here in this church. But he does encounter us all the time. We hear his voice for -[3199.26 --> 3210.62] sure every week. And I pray and hope every day. We have God's word. We have, we have access to God's -[3210.62 --> 3217.38] voice whenever we crack the cover of this book, whenever we flip through its pages. We hear God's -[3217.38 --> 3224.88] voice every time we read its words. We have the ability to sit down and listen and wait in God's -[3224.88 --> 3233.54] presence anytime we wish to. God's word, the Bible, this is his way of encountering his people. And -[3233.54 --> 3239.18] it's not the only way either, of course. God uses all sorts of means to speak to us, to speak to his -[3239.18 --> 3245.60] people. Dreams and visions still happen to some. We hear, we hear podcasts we'll listen to. We watch -[3245.60 --> 3252.26] pastors online. We read devotionals. God uses other people to speak his words into our lives as well, -[3252.54 --> 3258.64] be them pastors or elders, friends, teachers, parents, siblings, colleagues, strangers even. -[3259.56 --> 3266.56] But when God speaks to us, when God speaks to us, whether it's through a podcast or through a person, -[3267.26 --> 3274.88] it is only from God if it is rooted here, in this book, in his word. This is where we encounter God. -[3274.88 --> 3280.58] Whether we're reading it to ourselves, whether we're testing what other people say to us, -[3280.58 --> 3288.78] or whether we're hearing it in church or online, wherever we may be. This is God's voice for those -[3288.78 --> 3296.24] who believe. And so when God encounters us here, when God's word calls us into action, -[3296.24 --> 3309.82] what do we do? Do we make excuses like Moses? When the Bible teaches us to lead or to love or to pray or to -[3309.82 --> 3316.32] declare his name or to live into the lives of those around us or to serve his body, -[3316.32 --> 3325.50] what do we say? I'm not spiritual enough to do that. I wouldn't know what to say to them right now. -[3326.02 --> 3330.36] That's too awkward. I can't do that here. I'm not really good at public speaking. I'm not going to -[3330.36 --> 3337.12] do that in front of church. You know what? God just sent someone else. They're the same excuses. -[3337.12 --> 3344.88] They're the same excuses as Moses. We make the same ones. God's voice might not come out of a bush to us, -[3344.88 --> 3352.48] but it may as well be just as clear to us because God's word calls us to action. -[3352.48 --> 3363.96] When he calls us to action, do we listen or do we make excuses? When he calls you to action, -[3364.80 --> 3368.02] do you listen or make excuses? -[3371.32 --> 3377.84] Now, God's response to Moses' excuses are awesome, though, and we'll look at them right now. So -[3377.84 --> 3381.82] throughout chapter 3 and into chapter 4, and I encourage you later today or this week, -[3381.82 --> 3387.56] please pick up your Bibles. Read chapter 4. It's a good one, too. It's further conversation -[3387.56 --> 3392.80] between God and Moses here. But God promises two things that will combat Moses' excuses. -[3393.94 --> 3398.98] First, in verse 12 of our text, which we read today, God promises him that he will go with Moses. -[3399.84 --> 3406.64] Moses doesn't need to worry about his status, his qualifications, his nature, or anything like -[3406.64 --> 3414.76] that because no matter what, God was going to be with him. Now, this plays out in all of the ways -[3414.76 --> 3420.20] that God—this plays out in all sorts of ways as God walks alongside of Moses and his people throughout -[3420.20 --> 3425.00] the rest of this book. And we'll no doubt get to a whole bunch of these texts and passages later, -[3425.06 --> 3430.50] but I'll give you a little bit of a teaser. God goes with them. He guides them, his people, as a cloud -[3430.50 --> 3436.52] of smoke. He protects them as a pillar of fire. He provides for them in the desert, in the wilderness -[3436.52 --> 3442.78] with manna and with water. He grants them status as a nation and gives them victories over the evil -[3442.78 --> 3451.92] nations around them. Over and over and over, God is with his people. And that is still true today. -[3451.92 --> 3458.92] No matter what you are facing in this world today, no matter what the opposition, no matter what the -[3458.92 --> 3465.78] grief, no matter what the struggles, no matter what the anxieties, no matter what is going on in your -[3465.78 --> 3479.08] life right now, God is with you. And God is calling you. He will be with you. Do not be afraid. He will be -[3479.08 --> 3486.58] with you. God's covenant promise that he will be our God and we will be his people was true with Abraham, -[3486.88 --> 3495.46] was true with Moses, and it's true today. God has always kept up that end of the promise. Always. The -[3495.46 --> 3502.56] Holy Spirit has come down to guide and protect you. God, our Father, provides for us in ways that we may not -[3502.56 --> 3509.74] even notice or care to acknowledge our status, our identities, they are rooted in God's covenant -[3509.74 --> 3516.46] promises to us. And we are called now children of God. We are called heirs of the throne through Jesus -[3516.46 --> 3524.80] Christ. And we are born again out of this world. God is with us no matter where we are, no matter how we -[3524.80 --> 3533.10] feel, no matter what obstacles we are up against. So no matter what excuse we give for not following, -[3533.82 --> 3541.04] God is still with us. But there was something else God provided Moses in the midst of all these excuses. -[3541.20 --> 3547.60] Actually, it was someone else. In Exodus 4 verses 14 through 16, after Moses tells God that he's not -[3547.60 --> 3554.02] really a good public speaker, he can't do this job, God sends Moses' own brother Aaron, saying he'll be with -[3554.02 --> 3562.94] you two. He's a good speaker. You can do this together. God gave Moses a community to do this -[3562.94 --> 3571.58] job. God's given us this gift too. We have the church. We have each other. You may think that you -[3571.58 --> 3576.38] don't have what it takes to do whatever action God is placing on your heart right now. You may think -[3576.38 --> 3582.06] that you don't have what it takes to do whatever it is God is calling you to do. But you have me, -[3582.06 --> 3588.74] and you have Pastor Chris, and you have Daryl, and you have John, you've got Ken, you've got other John. -[3589.16 --> 3593.66] We've got each other. Like, look around right now. Actually, just do it. Look around right now. Look -[3593.66 --> 3599.18] across this room online. Flip through the directory. Look beside you. Look behind you. This is who God -[3599.18 --> 3607.10] has given you to do the job that he is calling you to do. He has given us each other so that we can help -[3607.10 --> 3613.42] each other, that we can support one another to do what it is God calls us to do. We may have excuses -[3613.42 --> 3621.40] for not wanting to follow God's plan, but we can help each other. While we can look at this passage, -[3621.50 --> 3626.22] and we can be told that we're like Moses because we make excuses for what we're called to do, maybe -[3626.22 --> 3633.20] some of us today need to hear that we actually need to be more like Aaron. We need to be there for -[3633.20 --> 3639.58] someone. We need to help them trust a little bit more. We need to help them lead people a little -[3639.58 --> 3645.98] bit better. You have to help them serve this community a little bit more fruitfully. Help them -[3645.98 --> 3652.00] in their biggest time of doubt and need. Maybe the biggest challenge for some of us today is that we -[3652.00 --> 3659.90] need to realize we are not alone in whatever it is God is calling us to do. Or maybe one of the biggest -[3659.90 --> 3665.94] challenges we got today is that you are being called to be Aaron to the Moseses in your life. -[3669.20 --> 3677.30] So Moses encountered God. We encounter God. Moses made excuses. We also make excuses. God promised to -[3677.30 --> 3683.30] be with Moses and gave him a community to support him. And God promises to be with us and gives us a -[3683.30 --> 3690.74] community to support one another. But there is more. While I said we are we are like Moses where we make -[3690.74 --> 3696.84] excuses and we're like Aaron where we can be there for someone, really in this story we are the Israelites. -[3698.70 --> 3705.48] We are God's people, the Israelites, but we need saving from captivity. God's people, the Israelites, -[3705.60 --> 3710.58] they were held captive in Egypt. They needed saving from them, but we also need saving from -[3710.58 --> 3715.14] captivity. That was the whole point of this passage, really. God was coming down to save his people. -[3715.74 --> 3720.74] Verse 8 says, I have come down to rescue them from the hands of the Egyptians and to bring them out of -[3720.74 --> 3727.86] the land and into a good and spacious land. Coming out of this Christmas season, though, I think the -[3727.86 --> 3736.06] parallel has been a little bit more obvious than normal. That's what God did for us, too. Jesus came down -[3736.06 --> 3744.40] from heaven. He made himself of no reputation. He became human in order to save all of us, all of us -[3744.40 --> 3753.36] from our captivity. Jesus came to live this perfect life that none of us have lived up to living. And then -[3753.36 --> 3759.18] he died a very brutal and very cruel death that we all deserved, and he did that in our place. -[3759.18 --> 3766.56] And he did that in order to wear the sin and the brokenness that burdens us all and to bring it with -[3766.56 --> 3773.96] him to die. It doesn't end there, because on the third day, Jesus rose again from the dead, leaving sin -[3773.96 --> 3782.80] and brokenness behind, and he did all of that in order to free us from the captivity of sin and brokenness -[3782.80 --> 3789.60] in this world. We are held captive to sin and brokenness, aren't we? We're captive to fear. -[3790.28 --> 3799.20] We're captive to pain. We're captive to addiction. We're captive to worry or frustration or anxiety -[3799.20 --> 3805.24] or grief. We are captive to so many things that hinder us from living. -[3805.24 --> 3815.72] But God came down to free us from that captivity. Jesus lived and died and rose again to ultimately free us -[3815.72 --> 3823.04] from the burden of sin and brokenness. Now, you will find that you will still worry. -[3823.98 --> 3829.88] You may still be anxious. You may still battle addiction. A lot of us are grieving. -[3829.88 --> 3844.54] A lot of us struggle with sin and brokenness, but those things are not who you are anymore because of -[3844.54 --> 3850.82] the power of Jesus Christ. You, we, all of us have been made new. So while we may struggle with the sin -[3850.82 --> 3859.50] and brokenness in this world, it does not define you anymore because you are defined by Christ's love, -[3859.50 --> 3868.46] grace, and mercy. Jesus defines who we are. His mercy for us, his grace for us, his love for us. -[3869.88 --> 3879.98] And that is why when Jesus encounters you and encounters us, and when we are called into action, -[3881.12 --> 3889.06] things like fear and worry and addiction aren't excuses anymore. While we still battle them, -[3889.50 --> 3899.34] they don't stand in our way. We have all been made right by God through Jesus Christ. Amen? -[3900.38 --> 3905.92] Sermon's not done. Back to the story of the burning bush, though. I just thought that that was a good -[3905.92 --> 3910.94] amen part. I think we needed that rooted into our hearts there. So Moses makes excuses, -[3910.94 --> 3918.04] excuses. But after his encounter with God, he does obey. In fact, he becomes one of the greatest -[3918.04 --> 3923.94] examples of faith that we have in God's Word. I am going to conclude here, so I'm not going off on a -[3923.94 --> 3928.48] whole new tangent here. That wasn't such a big trick. I want you, though, to lean into this. I'm -[3928.48 --> 3932.78] going to conclude with this passage here. We're going to read a passage in Hebrews, and I want you to -[3932.78 --> 3940.14] really listen to how the author of Hebrews here describes Moses' faithful response to God's calling -[3940.14 --> 3948.32] on him and to action. So Hebrews 11 verses 24 to 27 says this, by faith, Moses, when he had grown up, -[3948.68 --> 3956.34] refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh's daughter. He chose to be mistreated along with the people of -[3956.34 --> 3966.10] God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. Listen to this. He regarded disgrace for the -[3966.10 --> 3974.52] sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward. -[3976.18 --> 3984.56] By faith, he left Egypt, not fearing the king's anger. He persevered because he saw him who is invisible. -[3986.34 --> 3992.66] Hebrews says Moses knew it was better to be disgraced for the sake of Jesus Christ -[3992.66 --> 3999.32] centuries before Jesus came to earth, who he only knew, who Moses only knew by the name I am. -[4000.18 --> 4003.88] But he knew it was better to be disgraced for the sake of Jesus Christ than anything else. -[4005.10 --> 4012.94] In fact, being publicly disgraced in the name of Jesus was more valuable to Moses than all of the -[4012.94 --> 4017.58] treasures in Egypt, which he would have known how much value there was growing up in the palace. -[4018.96 --> 4025.54] And so when God called him to action, despite the original excuses, Moses faithfully obeyed, -[4025.96 --> 4034.06] and he followed God. He saw him who was invisible. He encountered God, and he listened to the call of -[4034.06 --> 4041.90] action. And in spoiler alert, God went on to use Moses to save his people from the Egyptians. And stay -[4041.90 --> 4046.88] tuned for the rest of the story. We'll pick all of that apart. So I leave you with this. I leave you -[4046.88 --> 4056.08] this to ponder. We have been saved. Jesus has come, and he's guaranteed our glorious, eternal inheritance -[4056.08 --> 4062.62] if we just put our faith in him. And now we can encounter God each and every time we open up his word. -[4062.62 --> 4068.66] But an encounter with God is always a call to action. -[4070.76 --> 4073.68] So what actions are being placed on your heart this morning? -[4074.92 --> 4076.54] Is it an action of forgiveness? -[4077.86 --> 4082.24] Is it a nudge to step out of your comfort zone and pray over someone? -[4082.84 --> 4083.74] Perhaps someone's? -[4085.30 --> 4088.06] Are you being called to declare the gospel -[4088.06 --> 4091.42] in an environment that maybe is a little bit hesitant to hear that? -[4093.06 --> 4096.90] Are you being challenged to serve in a local agency here in this community, -[4097.12 --> 4098.94] to serve the least of these in our neighborhood? -[4099.70 --> 4103.78] Or perhaps being called to serve in a ministry or committee here in this church? -[4105.18 --> 4108.88] Is God placing it on your heart right now to give more of your time, -[4108.88 --> 4110.92] more of your money, more of your energy, -[4111.08 --> 4113.78] more of your resources to his kingdom purposes, -[4114.24 --> 4116.40] rather than our own life's initiatives? -[4118.06 --> 4120.56] I can't answer these questions for you, -[4120.62 --> 4123.90] but I do implore you to ask them of yourselves and answer them. -[4124.46 --> 4126.68] Because God has promised to be with you. -[4127.46 --> 4129.78] He's given you this community to support you. -[4131.40 --> 4133.16] Are you prepared to take action? -[4134.78 --> 4137.80] When God encounters us, whenever we open his word, -[4137.84 --> 4141.38] like we did today, he calls us to action. -[4143.36 --> 4144.44] So what's your move? -[4145.34 --> 4146.08] Let me pray. -[4148.06 --> 4154.62] Father God, we encounter you each and every time we open up this word. -[4154.62 --> 4160.20] And as you encountered Moses in the burning bush and called him to action to save your people from Egypt, -[4160.34 --> 4162.26] God, you call us to action. -[4162.62 --> 4163.66] You call us to love. -[4164.12 --> 4165.20] You call us to serve. -[4165.78 --> 4166.92] You call us to give. -[4167.52 --> 4169.68] Lord, you call us to all sorts of things. -[4169.78 --> 4170.94] And so often, Lord, -[4171.46 --> 4174.46] we either ignore it or we come up with excuses for it. -[4174.46 --> 4177.22] But God, right now, I ask for your Holy Spirit. -[4177.54 --> 4182.26] God, may your Spirit be present in this place to all who are listening right now. -[4182.34 --> 4186.72] God, may you imprint on our hearts what it is you are calling us to do. -[4187.14 --> 4190.62] What actions are you calling us to move forward with, God? -[4190.62 --> 4196.42] And will you give us the courage to know that we have been made new in Christ -[4196.42 --> 4202.24] and we can go forward fulfilling these callings on our life because you are with us. -[4202.98 --> 4205.06] So God, whatever is on our hearts right now, -[4205.12 --> 4207.72] whatever call to action you are placing in front of us, -[4208.10 --> 4210.56] may we step forward faithfully, -[4211.04 --> 4212.30] knowing that you are with us -[4212.30 --> 4214.62] and that there is a community here to support us. -[4214.62 --> 4218.74] And so God, we lift all of this up to you in your name. -[4219.40 --> 4219.70] Amen. -[4231.50 --> 4232.84] Join us in song. -[4244.62 --> 4262.50] Let me be as gold and precious silver. -[4262.50 --> 4266.70] Purify my heart. -[4266.70 --> 4271.40] Let me be as gold. -[4271.40 --> 4274.60] Pure gold. -[4274.60 --> 4280.06] Refine as fire. -[4280.06 --> 4285.76] My heart's one desire -[4285.76 --> 4291.32] Is to be holy. -[4293.44 --> 4298.02] Set apart for you, Lord. -[4298.02 --> 4303.48] I choose to be holy. -[4303.48 --> 4310.78] Set apart for you, my master. -[4310.78 --> 4316.44] Ready to do your will. -[4320.44 --> 4324.90] Purify my heart. -[4324.90 --> 4327.90] Cleanse me from within. -[4327.90 --> 4328.90] Cleanse me from within. -[4328.90 --> 4332.14] And make me holy. -[4332.14 --> 4336.56] Purify my heart. -[4336.56 --> 4340.94] Cleanse me from my sin. -[4340.94 --> 4344.10] Deep within. -[4344.10 --> 4347.70] Refine as fire. -[4347.70 --> 4352.04] My heart's one desire. -[4352.04 --> 4352.70] My heart's one desire. -[4352.70 --> 4353.70] My heart's one desire -[4353.70 --> 4360.18] Is to be holy. -[4360.18 --> 4367.32] Set apart for you, my master. -[4367.32 --> 4372.10] Ready to do your will. -[4372.10 --> 4373.10] Amen. -[4402.10 --> 4411.76] And not just God goes with you, but Neil goes with you, and Brenda goes with you, and Enoch goes with you, and Rick goes with you. -[4412.54 --> 4419.32] Know that we are here for one another to support each other and to fulfill God's calling on our lives. -[4420.24 --> 4424.70] And now hear God's parting blessing, the priestly blessing from number six. -[4426.50 --> 4429.26] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[4429.26 --> 4434.00] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[4434.44 --> 4439.56] The Lord turn his face toward you and grant you his peace. -[4440.20 --> 4440.80] Amen. -[4440.80 --> 4461.54] Why should I fear men when you made the heavens? -[4461.54 --> 4469.66] Why should I be afraid when you put the stars in place? -[4470.10 --> 4475.54] Why should I lose heart when I know how great you are? -[4475.54 --> 4483.54] Why should I give up when your plans are full of love? -[4484.54 --> 4489.70] In this world we will have trouble. -[4489.70 --> 4504.70] You shine brighter than the brightest star. -[4504.70 --> 4512.48] Your love purer than the purest heart. -[4512.70 --> 4523.70] You shine filling us with courage and strength to follow you. -[4523.70 --> 4530.70] Why should I fear men when you put the stars in place? -[4530.70 --> 4535.70] Why should I fear men when you made the heavens? -[4535.70 --> 4543.70] Why should I fear men when you put the stars in place? -[4543.70 --> 4550.70] Why should I lose heart when I know how great you are? -[4550.70 --> 4551.70] Why should I give up when you put the stars in place? -[4551.70 --> 4557.70] Why should I give up when your plans are full of love? -[4557.70 --> 4558.70] Why should I give up during the stars in place? -[4558.70 --> 4559.70] Why should I use for the stars in place? -[4559.70 --> 4560.70] Why should I Witcher 3 and the Beneathición come true? -[4560.70 --> 4562.24] Why should I show people for the stars in place? -[4562.24 --> 4563.70] Why should I plywood when I saw you after theschaften pieces? -[4563.70 --> 4564.18] Why should I have any secondo? -[4564.18 --> 4565.18] Why should I muse Dochen be mettre in place? -[4565.18 --> 4566.18] For the stars above the board when you misunderstood? -[4566.18 --> 4567.14] stewing us who must have Strgilaspe Tsu Efe -[4567.14 --> 4568.32] And what you should live in city hallé -[4568.32 --> 4569.34] by hand in order in the troubled world? -[4569.34 --> 4570.56] Why should I concurrent call your love? -[4570.56 --> 4571.46] Why should I melt Peter better? -[4571.80 --> 4572.86] Why should I� 노래�et DES 돌�itue me if God is suffering to the 냄f only? -[4572.86 --> 4573.96] Why should I continue to absorb you? -[4573.96 --> 4575.08] Why should I submit your children be afraid when I rush in place? -[4575.08 --> 4576.16] Why should I enter them? -[4576.16 --> 4583.36] Brighter than the brightest star, your love. -[4583.76 --> 4590.44] Purer than the purest heart, you shine. -[4590.44 --> 4599.44] Filling us with courage and strength to follow you. -[4599.44 --> 4607.04] In this world we will have trouble. -[4609.44 --> 4612.96] But you have overcome the world. -[4616.12 --> 4621.62] You have overcome the world. -[4621.62 --> 4633.66] You shine brighter than the brightest star, your love. -[4633.66 --> 4640.68] Purer than the purest heart, you shine. -[4640.68 --> 4648.62] Filling us with courage and strength to follow you. -[4648.62 --> 4658.44] You shine brighter than the brightest star, your love. -[4658.44 --> 4665.80] Purer than the purest heart, you shine. -[4665.80 --> 4673.92] Filling us with courage and strength to follow you. -[4673.92 --> 4683.74] Purer than the purest heart, you shine. -[4683.74 --> 4693.56] Purer than the purest heart, you shine. -[4693.56 --> 4711.38] Purer than the purest heart, you shine. -[4711.38 --> 4741.36] guitar solo -[4741.38 --> 4771.36] guitar solo -[4771.38 --> 4773.38] guitar solo -[4801.38 --> 4803.38] guitar solo -[4831.38 --> 4833.38] guitar solo diff --git a/Sunday Worship - January 2, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - January 2, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d22a1e8fe3ae296eaae41510e26195eb020a78ad..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - January 2, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,128 +0,0 @@ -• Praising God with endless love and adoration -• No other god like the Lord over all -• Creation singing praise to God -• Jesus at the core of one's identity -• Love for Jesus being greater than anything else -• God as the center of everything -• Singing "It's all about you" repeatedly -• Upcoming changes to the cadet program -• Successful Dressember campaign raising awareness and funds against human trafficking -• Introduction of worship services for the New Year -• Announcements from Chris and Kevin regarding church programs and ministries -• Starting a new year of worship together -• Greeting of grace, mercy, and peace from God -• Liturgical practices and learning to follow them -• Call to worship for the morning service -• Verse from Jeremiah 29:11 about God's plans for prosperity and hope -• Prayer for the new year, trusting in God's goodness and plan -• Singing hymns of praise to God's goodness -• Gratitude and praise for God's goodness -• Surrendering to God with a life laid down -• Faithfulness and loyalty to God throughout one's life -• Freedom from fear through faith in God -• Being born again into God's family and receiving His love -• Overcoming sin and shame through Jesus Christ -• Celebrating the strength of God's presence and truth -• Visiting cargo ships in port to share the good news of God's love -• Providing literature and other resources on the ships -• Singing a new song, praising God from the end of the earth (Isaiah 42:10) -• Worship songs and hymns, including "Holy is He", "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain", and "With all creation I sing" -• Jesus Christ as Lord and King, worthy of praise and adoration -• The power and majesty of God, holy, holy, holy -• Worship team leads song "Your Goodness is Running After Me" -• Reflection on past year's challenges and blessings -• Upcoming new year brings unknowns and potential anxiety -• Discussion of New Year's resolutions and goals -• Church council chair thanks staff and highlights initiatives from previous year -• Planning for New Year's resolutions and considering helping with church committees -• Prayer for the new year, blessing of the congregation, and seeking God's guidance -• Requesting blessings on staff, ministries, and programs at Emmanuel Church -• Praying for those affected by COVID-19 and asking for strength and courage to navigate its challenges -• Asking for healing and optimism as people face various struggles and challenges in 2022 -• Ending with a prayer for continued faith and light in the world -• Resolutions and new year's reflections on life and goals -• Identity in Christ as Christians -• Distinguishing between spiritual blessings and worldly desires -• The tendency to forget or take for granted teachings about identity in Christ over time -• A contrast between worldly perspectives and the message of Ephesians 1 -• You have everything you need for life and faith, including spirituality and relationship to God, which has already been given to you. -• Many people forget or don't feel this spiritual blessing, leading to doubts and struggles with faith. -• The human heart has a religious impulse that must be directed towards the true God (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) or else it will become misdirected and lead to destructive consequences. -• Whatever is made ultimate in one's life will not be able to handle the weight of being the sole source of meaning and satisfaction. -• Examples of making something other than God ultimate include idolizing a spouse, family, power, status, wealth, education, etc. -• The weight of responsibility and expectation can crush individuals, including children, with the pressure to perform and achieve. -• Human tendency to put excessive expectations on oneself or others, leading to disappointment and harm. -• Importance of regularly recalibrating one's focus and affections towards God in worship and faith practices. -• Need for ongoing reminders and immersion in spiritual truths to resist competing affections and stay focused on the right being. -• Starting the new year with a reminder of spiritual identity and blessings is just a beginning, not an end. -• Adopted identity in Jesus -• Being chosen by God before creation -• Predestination for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ -• Justification and sanctification as theological terms -• God's ongoing work in believers' lives from beginning to end -• God's plan includes growing believers to be holy and blameless in His sight -• Adoption as children of God -• Redemption through His blood -• Experience of lavish redemption in everyday life -• Being fully forgiven (past, present, future) -• Salvation as a continuing process -• Freedom from condemnation due to the cross of Christ -• The concept of salvation and forgiveness as a free gift from God -• The idea that grace is free to the individual, but comes at great cost to God -• The struggle to accept and live with the reality of being fully forgiven -• The tendency for individuals to try to earn or stay forgiven through their own efforts -• The resulting emotional and spiritual destruction when individuals fail to meet impossible moral standards. -• The fight to stay forgiven and motivated to make high moral standards for ourselves -• Difficulty in giving ourselves grace or letting God's grace fill us up -• Tendency to push our moralisms and legalisms onto others instead of receiving forgiveness -• Judging others rather than admitting the truth about ourselves -• Using others' sin as a way to blind ourselves to our own need and sin -• The tendency of Christians to judge others and project their own flaws onto them -• The self-judgmental nature of humans and how it leads to criticism of others -• Redemption through Jesus Christ's sacrifice on the cross for humanity's sins -• The contrast between what Jesus did and what humans cannot do, leading to forgiveness and salvation -• A brief application on knowing one is fully forgiven -• A reference to Jesus' teaching on prayer -• The Lord's Prayer and forgiveness -• Understanding the marks of being forgiven -• Who needs to be fully, freely, and forever forgiven -• God's will and purpose in our lives -• The mystery of God's plan and its fulfillment -• Trusting in God's plan despite uncertainty or questions -• The concept of God having a plan and being sovereign over it -• The idea that everything that happens is accounted for in God's plan -• Criticism of the idea that God has a plan, with some people seeing it as making God out to be a tyrant or malevolent being -• The suggestion that a "big enough" God must also have reasons that humans can't understand -• The book of Job and its exploration of the question of whether God allows trouble into our lives -• The challenge of determining if one's conception of God is big enough to include difficult things that happen in life. -• The speaker discusses the purpose of humanity -• God's glory is the ultimate goal for which humans were created -• Being chosen by God and having a plan in His will -• The importance of worshiping God as a true worshiper -• God's greatness, magnificence, and worthiness of praise -• Human existence is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever -• God's glory is seen in those who are satisfied in Him -• True worship involves making God one's all-in-all -• Church services are meant to be a place of encounter with the living God -• Worshipers are made to worship and should do so sincerely and without grumbling or complaining -• Selfish attitudes can block one from fulfilling their purpose as adopted children of God -• The importance of gathering with Christians and being authentic in one's faith -• Being adopted, redeemed, given a purpose, and filled with God's power -• The role and necessity of the Holy Spirit in faith and everyday life -• The need to recognize and rely on the Holy Spirit for spiritual growth and change -• The importance of the Holy Spirit in enduring testing and trial -• How the Word of God becomes living and active in one's life through the Holy Spirit -• The role of prayer and its effectiveness through the power of the Holy Spirit -• Using spiritual gifts to serve and edify the church with the help of the Holy Spirit -• God's promise to equip believers with every spiritual blessing through the Holy Spirit -• The Holy Spirit as a deposit guaranteeing one's inheritance in Christ -• Identity in Jesus Christ, including being adopted sons and daughters of God and having a purpose and plan in His sovereign power -• Invocation and prayer -• Identity as a child of God -• Freedom from sin through Jesus Christ -• Purpose and plan in life according to God's will -• Blessings and protection from God -• Song and praise to God's greatness and faithfulness -• The speaker affirms God's existence and attributes, stating "you are God" and describing God as eternal, immortal, and invisible. -• The repetition of "Eternal, immortal, invisible God" suggests a form of ecstatic or repetitive prayer. -• The phrase "You are gone" is repeated frequently towards the end of the transcript. \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - January 2, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - January 2, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 7eabc68bfbbbe474c48b6fbe35827022144d4854..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - January 2, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2426 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 15.34] Oh, you are God, and we lift you up, we'll keep singing, we'll keep praising, we won't -[15.34 --> 21.70] stop giving all we got, cause you're worthy of all glory. -[21.70 --> 38.70] Oh, there is no other, you are forever, Lord over all, there's nobody like you, no one beside you, that's what we sing out to you. -[38.70 --> 50.62] Oh, let endless praise resound, every night and day, and with no delay, let endless praise resound. -[51.14 --> 51.90] Let's go! -[51.90 --> 81.88] Let's go! -[81.90 --> 98.90] Creation, keep singing, oh, there is no other, you are forever, Lord over all, there's nobody like you, no one beside you. -[98.90 --> 114.08] To you, let endless praise resound, every night and day, and with no delay, let endless praise resound. -[114.08 --> 132.10] Let's go! -[132.10 --> 147.32] We lift you up, up, up -[147.32 --> 151.06] We're giving you our love, love, love -[151.06 --> 154.74] For everything you've done, done, done -[154.74 --> 159.58] Oh, we give you all the praise -[159.58 --> 162.28] We lift you up, up, up -[162.28 --> 166.00] We're giving you our love, love, love -[166.00 --> 169.78] For everything you've done, done, done -[169.78 --> 174.72] Oh, we give you all the praise -[174.72 --> 175.72] Let's go! -[175.72 --> 190.42] Oh, we give you all the praise -[190.42 --> 196.92] To you, let endless praise resound -[196.92 --> 201.12] Every night and day, and with no delay -[201.12 --> 204.50] Let endless praise resound -[204.50 --> 211.58] To you, let endless praise resound -[211.58 --> 216.28] Every night and day, and with no delay -[216.28 --> 219.40] Let endless praise resound -[219.40 --> 221.20] To you -[221.20 --> 222.78] Let endless praise resound -[223.72 --> 225.80] All tolerated -[225.80 --> 228.42] I've got one -[228.48 --> 229.52] Oh, I love -[229.52 --> 231.24] Oh, I love -[231.24 --> 232.06] Oh, I love -[232.06 --> 232.90] Oh, I love -[232.90 --> 233.30] I love -[233.30 --> 234.42] Oh, I love -[234.42 --> 236.40] Oh, I love -[236.40 --> 236.68] Ah... -[236.68 --> 237.18] Ah... -[237.92 --> 238.44] Oh, I love -[238.44 --> 239.32] Oh, I love -[239.32 --> 240.24] Oh, I love -[240.24 --> 241.04] Oh, I love -[241.04 --> 255.36] I can see it clearly now. -[255.36 --> 259.24] There's a reason for this sign. -[261.08 --> 262.64] It's Jesus. -[266.16 --> 270.16] At the core of who I am. -[270.16 --> 274.40] Is the written Son of man. -[276.04 --> 277.40] It's Jesus. -[280.00 --> 280.60] Yeah. -[281.60 --> 284.10] You're like no other. -[285.30 --> 287.56] For your love is greater. -[289.02 --> 293.16] And you are the center of it all. -[294.16 --> 295.92] It's all about you. -[295.92 --> 296.18] Yeah. -[297.18 --> 299.62] It's all about you. -[300.16 --> 303.32] It's all about you. -[304.40 --> 307.00] It's all about you. -[307.90 --> 308.24] Yeah. -[308.24 --> 308.74] Yeah. -[308.74 --> 309.98] Yeah. -[309.98 --> 312.22] Yeah. -[312.36 --> 313.48] Yeah. -[319.12 --> 320.00] Yeah. -[320.10 --> 320.60] Yeah. -[320.60 --> 321.28] Yeah. -[321.56 --> 321.92] Yeah. -[321.92 --> 322.02] Yeah. -[322.02 --> 322.52] Yeah. -[322.52 --> 324.60] Yeah. -[325.00 --> 327.90] Yeah. -[327.90 --> 338.30] i exist to bring you praise and to shout no other name but jesus -[342.70 --> 348.46] you're like no other for your love is greater -[350.06 --> 353.58] and you are the center of it all -[357.90 --> 359.90] it's all about you -[361.90 --> 363.90] it's all about you -[365.90 --> 367.90] it's all about you -[367.90 --> 369.90] yeah -[377.90 --> 379.90] come on -[379.90 --> 381.90] many -[383.90 --> 385.90] do -[385.90 --> 390.08] It's all about you -[390.08 --> 394.02] It's all about you -[394.02 --> 397.70] It's all about you -[397.70 --> 404.82] You are the first, you are the last -[404.82 --> 408.54] You are my future, cause you're from my past -[408.54 --> 412.08] You are the reason why I say -[412.08 --> 415.98] It's all about you -[415.98 --> 419.78] It's all about you -[419.78 --> 423.32] I'm living for you -[423.32 --> 427.44] It's all about you -[442.08 --> 445.74] It's all about you -[445.74 --> 447.98] It's all about you -[447.98 --> 469.98] Come on, jerk, put your hands up -[469.98 --> 476.68] Hey, hey, hey, hey -[476.68 --> 479.78] Let's go -[479.78 --> 493.66] I want to hear you sing this out with us -[493.66 --> 498.10] I will not be shaken -[498.10 --> 502.90] When troubles come, you're the one I call -[502.90 --> 505.72] You are my foundation -[505.72 --> 510.26] A solid rock I will stand on -[510.26 --> 514.14] There's no need to fear for the battle is won -[514.14 --> 517.10] The battle is won in you -[517.10 --> 520.84] My future is short for my God -[520.84 --> 521.84] You are strong -[521.84 --> 524.78] My God, you are breaking through -[524.78 --> 526.88] If death is defeated -[526.88 --> 530.70] All praise to you, Jesus -[530.70 --> 535.30] If death is defeated -[535.30 --> 538.10] Then I'll be considered against -[538.10 --> 538.90] Come on, church -[538.90 --> 541.34] The name of Jesus -[541.34 --> 556.20] Somebody make some noise in this place -[556.20 --> 560.00] You're my only focus -[560.00 --> 560.80] You're my only focus -[560.80 --> 564.96] The only way to a life of freedom -[564.96 --> 568.00] You await my purpose -[568.00 --> 571.66] Now I live for your kingdom -[571.66 --> 576.04] There's no need to fear for the battle is won -[576.04 --> 578.98] The battle is won in you -[578.98 --> 582.80] My future is short for my God -[582.80 --> 583.68] You are strong -[583.68 --> 586.74] My God, you are breaking through -[586.74 --> 588.78] If death is defeated -[588.78 --> 592.60] All praise to you, Jesus -[592.60 --> 597.20] If death is defeated -[597.20 --> 600.36] Then I think it's considered against -[600.36 --> 603.42] In the name of Jesus -[603.42 --> 611.42] Nothing is shared against -[611.42 --> 616.74] I want to see everybody getting up in this place -[616.74 --> 621.40] Good morning! -[622.18 --> 625.04] Welcome to church and Happy New Year! -[627.36 --> 630.12] Oh, it was a happier New Year over here, I think, -[630.12 --> 631.72] Based on that response -[631.72 --> 634.70] Oh, there you go -[634.70 --> 637.44] It was the happiest of New Year's for Lena -[637.44 --> 638.34] Excellent -[638.34 --> 641.90] If you're participating with us online -[641.90 --> 643.58] We just had a little interaction here -[643.58 --> 644.52] That you didn't hear -[644.52 --> 646.38] So sorry that you missed that part -[646.38 --> 648.30] To you online, welcome -[648.30 --> 650.44] And thank you for joining us as well -[650.44 --> 651.18] My name is Chris -[651.18 --> 653.16] I'm one of the pastors here -[653.16 --> 656.08] And it's my privilege, along with these on stage -[656.08 --> 657.18] And yet a couple others -[657.18 --> 659.04] To lead us in our worship -[659.04 --> 661.36] This New Year's -[661.36 --> 665.22] Or this first Sunday of New Year's together -[665.22 --> 668.94] We are excited to kick this year off -[668.94 --> 670.22] With worship -[670.22 --> 673.18] We know that there are all sorts of chaoses -[673.18 --> 676.22] That are challenging our attentions -[676.22 --> 677.14] And our focus -[677.14 --> 679.62] And things that are drawing us -[679.62 --> 681.24] And pulling us this way and that -[681.24 --> 682.86] And we want to just center ourselves -[682.86 --> 684.94] On God and with Him -[684.94 --> 687.26] For an hour or so -[687.26 --> 688.22] Together -[688.22 --> 690.22] Before we begin -[690.22 --> 692.70] I just want to make one announcement -[692.70 --> 695.98] And then Kevin is going to make an announcement as well -[695.98 --> 701.44] But with the delayed return to school for kids -[701.44 --> 705.26] We are also pushing back the start of the cadet program -[705.26 --> 707.60] Which was scheduled to start this week -[707.60 --> 709.66] And so we have in the past -[709.66 --> 711.54] Tied our children's programs -[711.54 --> 713.28] To the school programs -[713.28 --> 714.84] And so -[714.84 --> 716.98] As providing clarity and consistency -[716.98 --> 718.52] So we wanted to just put that out -[718.52 --> 719.36] For the cadets -[719.36 --> 721.00] That's our boys group -[721.00 --> 724.06] You're not starting this week Thursday -[724.06 --> 725.10] But you will start -[725.10 --> 726.24] Lord willing -[726.24 --> 728.62] Two weeks removed from that -[728.62 --> 730.80] But we'll have a staff meeting this week -[730.80 --> 732.42] To discuss the rest of our ministries -[732.42 --> 734.20] With everything else that's going on as well -[734.20 --> 735.60] So you hear that -[735.60 --> 737.00] And then Kevin has one more -[737.00 --> 740.64] It's coming -[740.64 --> 741.12] There it is -[741.12 --> 741.86] Good morning everyone -[741.86 --> 744.42] I wanted to give a giant thank you -[744.42 --> 745.46] To all of you here -[745.46 --> 746.36] All of you online -[746.36 --> 748.48] And people beyond the walls of this church as well -[748.48 --> 750.24] For a very successful Dressember -[750.24 --> 750.76] The youth -[750.76 --> 751.84] A bunch of the youth and leaders -[751.84 --> 752.54] And some parents -[752.54 --> 753.76] Wore dresses and ties -[753.76 --> 755.06] The whole month of December -[755.06 --> 756.24] To raise awareness -[756.24 --> 757.40] And funds -[757.40 --> 759.40] To fight human trafficking in this world -[759.40 --> 761.12] And we raised over -[761.12 --> 762.78] It was about $7,600 -[762.78 --> 764.62] So just a huge thank you -[764.62 --> 766.24] To all who were involved in that -[766.24 --> 768.22] For being bombarded online -[768.22 --> 769.12] On social media -[769.12 --> 770.22] With constant posts -[770.22 --> 771.06] And pictures of people -[771.06 --> 771.92] In ties and dresses -[771.92 --> 774.20] It was I would say a big success -[774.20 --> 776.16] So both the awareness portion -[776.16 --> 777.18] And the funds portion -[777.18 --> 777.78] Went very well -[777.78 --> 778.68] So a big thank you -[778.68 --> 779.44] To all of you -[779.44 --> 779.96] Thanks -[779.96 --> 787.66] Let's kick off -[787.66 --> 789.78] Our new year of worship together -[789.78 --> 790.24] Shall we? -[790.32 --> 791.00] Why don't you stand -[791.00 --> 791.70] If you're able -[791.70 --> 792.98] And present here -[792.98 --> 795.78] And take on -[795.78 --> 797.26] A posture of worship -[797.26 --> 798.14] And of receipt -[798.14 --> 799.70] As we enter into -[799.70 --> 800.62] God's presence -[800.62 --> 801.68] Together -[801.68 --> 802.62] Receive the greeting -[802.62 --> 803.62] Of our God -[803.62 --> 805.32] Grace -[805.32 --> 806.88] Mercy -[806.88 --> 808.20] And peace -[808.20 --> 808.86] To you -[808.86 --> 810.12] From God -[810.12 --> 810.64] Our Father -[810.64 --> 811.18] From the Lord -[811.18 --> 811.88] Jesus Christ -[811.88 --> 812.44] His Son -[812.44 --> 813.44] And our Savior -[813.44 --> 814.54] Through the presence -[814.54 --> 815.30] And power -[815.30 --> 816.80] Of the Holy Spirit -[816.80 --> 819.12] Amen -[819.12 --> 821.12] Before we start -[821.12 --> 822.42] It's a new year -[822.42 --> 823.24] So I'm going to do this -[823.24 --> 824.00] Okay -[824.00 --> 826.04] When my hands go from here -[826.04 --> 826.78] To here -[826.78 --> 828.56] That's your cue -[828.56 --> 829.12] To say -[829.12 --> 829.74] Amen -[829.74 --> 832.18] So I'm not going to say -[832.18 --> 833.20] And all God's people said -[833.20 --> 834.54] That's just your cue -[834.54 --> 835.68] I've been trying for a year -[835.68 --> 836.32] To get you guys -[836.32 --> 837.08] To figure that out -[837.08 --> 838.50] And you haven't done it -[838.50 --> 839.56] And so now -[839.56 --> 840.88] I'm explicitly stating -[840.88 --> 842.34] My hands are up here -[842.34 --> 842.90] Giving the blessing -[842.90 --> 843.94] And they move down here -[843.94 --> 845.52] Amen -[845.52 --> 846.46] Thank you -[846.46 --> 848.34] Liturgical practices -[848.34 --> 848.94] We're learning -[848.94 --> 854.50] Our call to worship -[854.50 --> 855.12] This morning -[855.12 --> 856.92] Comes from a favorite verse -[856.92 --> 860.74] Jeremiah 29 verse 11 -[860.74 --> 862.56] For I know the plans -[862.56 --> 863.40] I have for you -[863.40 --> 864.34] Declares the Lord -[864.34 --> 866.40] Plans to prosper you -[866.40 --> 867.88] And not to harm you -[867.88 --> 869.74] Plans to give you hope -[869.74 --> 870.72] And a future -[870.72 --> 874.10] Whether 2021 brought us success -[874.10 --> 875.84] Fulfillment and joy -[875.84 --> 877.28] Or we faced grief -[877.28 --> 878.64] Or setbacks -[878.64 --> 880.12] Or frustrations and trouble -[880.12 --> 882.86] We can know that God was with us -[882.86 --> 884.22] Every step of the way -[884.22 --> 887.02] We can look forward to this new year again -[887.02 --> 887.82] With the hope -[887.82 --> 888.88] And the assurance -[888.88 --> 889.98] That our Heavenly Father -[889.98 --> 891.24] Is faithful and good -[891.24 --> 892.76] And He loves us -[892.76 --> 894.82] He cares deeply for us -[894.82 --> 897.70] And He will always be with us -[897.70 --> 899.72] With this hope in mind -[899.72 --> 900.34] Let's pray -[900.34 --> 902.60] Heavenly Father -[902.60 --> 904.16] Thank you that you make -[904.16 --> 905.10] All things new -[905.10 --> 907.18] As another year has begun -[907.18 --> 908.36] Help us to live -[908.36 --> 909.44] Every day for you -[909.44 --> 911.58] No matter what comes our way -[911.58 --> 913.14] We trust you -[913.14 --> 913.16] We trust you -[913.16 --> 915.46] Because we know you have a plan for us -[915.46 --> 917.14] And your mercies are new -[917.14 --> 917.94] Every morning -[917.94 --> 919.54] And nothing ahead of us -[919.54 --> 921.32] Will take you by surprise -[921.32 --> 924.04] We praise you for your unfailing goodness -[924.04 --> 925.24] And love for us -[925.24 --> 927.82] In Jesus' precious name we pray -[927.82 --> 929.70] Amen -[929.70 --> 931.96] Please join us in singing -[931.96 --> 933.24] Of the goodness of God -[933.24 --> 945.04] I love you Lord -[945.04 --> 949.70] Oh your mercy never fails me -[949.70 --> 953.52] All my days -[953.52 --> 957.64] I've been held in your hands -[957.64 --> 961.24] From the moment that I wake up -[961.24 --> 964.76] Until I lay my head -[964.76 --> 967.04] I will sing -[967.04 --> 971.64] Of the goodness of God -[971.64 --> 972.64] I love you Lord -[972.64 --> 975.86] And all my life -[975.86 --> 978.24] You have been faithful -[978.24 --> 983.06] And all my life -[983.06 --> 986.88] You have been so, so good -[986.88 --> 992.64] With every breath that I am able -[992.64 --> 995.86] I will sing -[995.86 --> 999.46] Of the goodness of God -[999.46 --> 1004.14] I love your voice -[1004.14 --> 1008.26] You have led me through the fire -[1008.26 --> 1011.72] In darkest night -[1011.72 --> 1015.18] You are close like no other -[1015.18 --> 1018.84] I've known you as a father -[1018.84 --> 1023.00] I've known you as a friend -[1023.00 --> 1025.70] And I have lived -[1025.70 --> 1029.00] In the goodness of God -[1029.00 --> 1033.68] And all my life -[1033.68 --> 1036.60] You have been faithful -[1036.60 --> 1041.28] And all my life -[1041.28 --> 1045.00] You have been so, so good -[1045.00 --> 1050.68] With every breath that I am able -[1050.68 --> 1055.36] I will sing -[1055.36 --> 1058.28] Of the goodness of God -[1058.28 --> 1063.56] Your goodness is running after you -[1063.56 --> 1066.32] It's running after me -[1066.32 --> 1070.56] Your goodness is running after you -[1070.56 --> 1073.28] It's running after me -[1073.28 --> 1075.60] With my life laid down -[1075.60 --> 1077.40] I surrender now -[1077.40 --> 1079.74] I give you everything -[1079.74 --> 1084.96] Your goodness is running after you -[1084.96 --> 1087.28] It's running after me -[1087.28 --> 1091.96] Your goodness is running after you -[1091.96 --> 1094.72] It's running after me -[1094.72 --> 1102.32] Your goodness is running after me -[1102.32 --> 1104.10] With my life laid down -[1104.10 --> 1105.90] I surrender now -[1105.90 --> 1108.24] I give you everything -[1108.24 --> 1112.92] Your goodness is running after you -[1112.92 --> 1117.60] It's running after me -[1117.60 --> 1121.28] All my life -[1121.28 --> 1123.28] You have been faithful -[1123.28 --> 1127.96] All my life -[1127.96 --> 1128.96] You have been faithful -[1128.96 --> 1129.96] You have been faithful -[1129.96 --> 1130.96] You have been faithful -[1130.96 --> 1131.96] You have been faithful -[1131.96 --> 1133.96] You have been faithful -[1133.96 --> 1135.96] With every breath that I am able -[1135.96 --> 1137.96] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1137.96 --> 1143.96] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1143.96 --> 1148.18] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1148.18 --> 1154.46] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1154.46 --> 1182.88] You unravel me -[1182.88 --> 1185.82] With a melody -[1185.82 --> 1189.58] You surround me -[1189.58 --> 1192.72] With a song -[1192.72 --> 1197.12] Of deliverance -[1197.12 --> 1200.54] From my enemies -[1200.54 --> 1206.30] Till all my fears are gone -[1206.30 --> 1213.56] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1213.56 --> 1220.46] I am a child of all -[1220.46 --> 1227.30] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1227.30 --> 1235.30] I am a child of all -[1235.30 --> 1241.92] From my mother's womb -[1241.92 --> 1245.96] You have chosen me -[1245.96 --> 1251.74] Love has called my name -[1251.74 --> 1256.10] I've been born again -[1256.10 --> 1259.00] Into your family -[1259.00 --> 1265.90] Your blood flows through my veins -[1265.90 --> 1272.54] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1272.54 --> 1279.74] I am a child of all -[1279.74 --> 1287.06] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1287.06 --> 1293.74] I am a child of God -[1293.74 --> 1300.40] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1300.40 --> 1307.74] I am a child of God -[1307.74 --> 1315.06] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1315.06 --> 1321.06] I am a child of God -[1321.06 --> 1340.38] You split the sea so I could walk right through it -[1340.38 --> 1345.06] My fears are drowned in perfect God -[1345.06 --> 1352.38] You rescued me so I could stand -[1352.38 --> 1353.38] And sing -[1353.38 --> 1359.70] I am a child of God -[1359.70 --> 1361.70] You saved me so I could stand -[1361.70 --> 1362.70] And sing -[1362.70 --> 1363.70] I am a child of God -[1363.70 --> 1367.70] You split the sea so I could walk right through it -[1367.70 --> 1371.70] My fears are drowned in perfect love -[1371.70 --> 1379.02] You rescued me so I could stand -[1379.02 --> 1381.02] And sing -[1381.02 --> 1383.02] I am a child of God -[1383.02 --> 1387.02] I am a child of God -[1387.02 --> 1394.34] I am a child of God -[1394.34 --> 1401.66] I am a child of God -[1401.66 --> 1402.98] I am a child of God -[1402.98 --> 1406.98] I am a child of God -[1406.98 --> 1414.98] Our next song is a song called Stronger, which I know the kids know quite well, and in particular the actions to the song. -[1414.98 --> 1417.98] So we would love to see you doing those actions -[1417.98 --> 1421.98] And maybe if you do them big enough, the adults will join you and be inspired -[1421.98 --> 1423.98] So here we go -[1423.98 --> 1452.98] There is love that came for us -[1452.98 --> 1457.98] Humble to a sinner's cross -[1457.98 --> 1462.98] You broke by shame and sinfulness -[1462.98 --> 1468.98] You rose again victorious -[1468.98 --> 1475.98] Faithfulness none can deny -[1475.98 --> 1480.98] Through the storm and through the fire -[1480.98 --> 1485.98] There is truth that sets me free -[1485.98 --> 1491.98] Jesus Christ who lives in me -[1491.98 --> 1494.98] You are stronger -[1494.98 --> 1496.98] You are stronger -[1496.98 --> 1498.98] You are stronger -[1498.98 --> 1500.98] Sin is broken -[1500.98 --> 1503.98] You have saved me -[1503.98 --> 1505.98] It is written -[1505.98 --> 1508.98] Christ is risen -[1508.98 --> 1513.98] Jesus you are Lord of all -[1513.98 --> 1520.98] No beginning -[1520.98 --> 1523.98] And no end -[1523.98 --> 1525.98] You're my hope -[1525.98 --> 1527.98] And my defense -[1527.98 --> 1528.98] You came to see -[1528.98 --> 1530.98] You came to see -[1530.98 --> 1532.98] And save the lost -[1532.98 --> 1534.98] You paid it all -[1534.98 --> 1536.98] You paid it all -[1536.98 --> 1541.98] Upon the cross -[1541.98 --> 1544.98] You are stronger -[1544.98 --> 1545.98] You are stronger -[1545.98 --> 1546.98] You are stronger -[1546.98 --> 1549.98] Sin is broken -[1549.98 --> 1551.98] You are quicker -[1551.98 --> 1552.98] You are stronger -[1552.98 --> 1553.98] You are stronger -[1553.98 --> 1566.98] You did get it all -[1566.98 --> 1571.72] Be lifted higher -[1571.72 --> 1574.68] Be lifted higher -[1574.68 --> 1579.26] So let your name be lifted higher -[1579.26 --> 1581.98] Be lifted higher -[1581.98 --> 1584.50] Be lifted higher -[1584.50 --> 1589.42] So let your name be lifted higher -[1589.42 --> 1591.98] Be lifted higher -[1591.98 --> 1594.46] Be lifted higher -[1594.46 --> 1599.48] So let your name be lifted higher -[1599.48 --> 1601.98] Be lifted higher -[1601.98 --> 1604.38] Be lifted higher -[1604.38 --> 1608.16] You are stronger -[1608.16 --> 1610.76] You are stronger -[1610.76 --> 1613.46] Sin is broken -[1613.46 --> 1616.46] You have saved me -[1616.46 --> 1619.06] It is written -[1619.06 --> 1621.76] Christ is risen -[1621.76 --> 1627.20] Jesus, you are Lord of all -[1627.20 --> 1629.34] You are stronger -[1629.34 --> 1632.00] You are stronger -[1632.00 --> 1634.42] Sin is broken -[1634.42 --> 1637.24] You have saved me -[1637.24 --> 1639.64] It is written -[1639.64 --> 1642.12] Christ is risen -[1642.12 --> 1648.00] Jesus, you are Lord of all -[1648.00 --> 1651.30] You may have a seat -[1651.30 --> 1655.54] One time, to quick -[1655.54 --> 1656.82] credit forの -[1656.82 --> 1657.72] Unleafs -[1657.72 --> 1658.14] Good -[1658.14 --> 1659.64] 拳 -[1659.64 --> 1660.60] season -[1660.60 --> 1661.22] chairs -[1663.54 --> 1663.68] Ala. -[1663.68 --> 1665.12] 順 -[1665.12 --> 1665.72] actually -[1665.72 --> 1669.36] film -[1669.38 --> 1671.18] big -[1671.18 --> 1671.72] church -[1671.72 --> 1674.64] lighting -[1674.64 --> 1677.30] t -[1677.30 --> 1679.70] part -[1679.70 --> 1709.68] Thank you. -[1709.70 --> 1722.42] This ministry involves visiting cargo ships in port and serving in the ministry centers in Vancouver and Roberts Bank. -[1723.26 --> 1729.86] The vision is to visit as many ships as possible and share the good news of God's love. -[1730.58 --> 1733.50] They also provide literature and other resources. -[1735.36 --> 1737.84] Isaiah 42, verse 10, -[1737.84 --> 1740.88] Sing to the Lord a new song. -[1741.54 --> 1744.18] Sing his praise from the end of the earth. -[1745.20 --> 1754.60] You who go down to the sea and all that is in it. -[1756.26 --> 1760.84] A special offering next week is North American Indigenous Ministries. -[1760.84 --> 1763.52] Tim and Charity Johnson. -[1763.52 --> 1783.48] Air Wainwoodэ -[1783.48 --> 1800.48] Holy is He -[1800.48 --> 1804.22] When He was slain -[1804.22 --> 1808.32] Holy, holy is He -[1808.32 --> 1813.74] Sing a new song -[1813.74 --> 1817.20] To Him who sits on -[1817.20 --> 1822.36] Heaven's mercy seat -[1822.36 --> 1827.36] Worthy is the -[1827.36 --> 1830.78] Lamb who was slain -[1830.78 --> 1834.70] Holy, holy is He -[1834.70 --> 1840.12] Sing a new song -[1840.12 --> 1843.58] To Him who sits on -[1843.58 --> 1848.12] Heaven's mercy seat -[1848.12 --> 1854.12] Holy, holy, holy -[1854.12 --> 1857.08] Is the Lord God Almighty -[1857.08 --> 1861.20] Who was and is and is to come -[1861.20 --> 1867.58] With all creation I sing -[1867.58 --> 1870.62] Praise to the King of kings -[1870.62 --> 1873.56] You are my everything -[1873.56 --> 1876.62] And I will adore You -[1876.62 --> 1880.78] Please rise as we continue to sing -[1880.78 --> 1893.20] Golden rainbows -[1893.20 --> 1896.36] Of living color -[1896.36 --> 1899.36] Clashes of lightning -[1899.36 --> 1901.16] Rolls of thunder -[1901.16 --> 1905.86] Blessing and honor -[1905.86 --> 1908.08] Strength and glory -[1908.08 --> 1909.22] And power -[1909.22 --> 1910.08] To Him who is -[1910.08 --> 1915.08] The only wise King -[1915.08 --> 1920.08] Holy, holy, holy -[1920.08 --> 1923.00] Is the Lord God Almighty -[1923.00 --> 1927.08] Who was and is and is to come -[1927.08 --> 1933.14] With all creation I sing -[1933.14 --> 1936.30] Praise to the King of kings -[1936.30 --> 1938.30] You are my everything -[1938.30 --> 1942.30] And I will adore You -[1942.30 --> 1958.30] Filled with wonder -[1958.30 --> 1958.80] Filled with wonder -[1958.80 --> 1961.78] Awestruck wonder -[1961.78 --> 1968.30] At the mention of Your name -[1968.30 --> 1971.30] Jesus, Your name -[1971.30 --> 1972.30] Your name is power -[1972.30 --> 1976.30] Breath and living water -[1976.30 --> 1980.30] Such a marvelous mystery -[1980.30 --> 1986.30] Holy, holy, holy -[1986.30 --> 1989.30] Is the Lord God Almighty -[1989.30 --> 1993.30] Who was and is and is to come -[1993.30 --> 1998.30] With all creation I sing -[1998.30 --> 1999.44] With all creation I sing -[1999.44 --> 2002.54] Praise to the King of kings -[2002.54 --> 2004.30] You are my everything -[2004.30 --> 2005.30] You are my everything -[2005.30 --> 2008.30] And I will adore You -[2008.30 --> 2012.30] Holy, holy, holy -[2012.30 --> 2015.30] Is the Lord God Almighty -[2015.30 --> 2019.30] Who was and is and is to come -[2019.30 --> 2024.30] With all creation I sing -[2024.30 --> 2025.30] With all creation I sing -[2025.30 --> 2028.30] Praise to the King of kings -[2028.30 --> 2030.30] You are my everything -[2030.30 --> 2034.30] And I will adore You -[2034.30 --> 2037.30] I am Your everything -[2037.30 --> 2053.30] I am Your everything -[2053.30 --> 2056.10] with or whoever -[2056.30 --> 2057.30] through formulate -[2057.30 --> 2058.44] and if as a Nhglop -[2058.44 --> 2059.30] your understanding -[2059.30 --> 2060.30] Lord clearly -[2060.30 --> 2061.98] as a Ygg -[2061.98 --> 2068.30] Why don't we have the kids come on up to the front. We're going to do children's blessing -[2068.30 --> 2073.48] after I pray, and then you guys are going to head out. I understand your children's worship time -[2073.48 --> 2080.34] leaders have some fun activities in store for you. So before I pray, I have a quick question. -[2081.04 --> 2088.26] How many of you stayed up till midnight on New Year's Eve? Oh, I'm in such good company. Me neither. -[2088.26 --> 2096.04] Oh, it's so much nicer just to go to bed, right? No, Malachi. That's my son, everyone, -[2096.50 --> 2105.46] who defiantly says no. No, I think it is. You know what? Today we are remembering and seeing, -[2105.60 --> 2110.04] maybe for the first time, who we are in Jesus. And what I want you guys to know before you go -[2110.04 --> 2113.50] into children's worship time, and what we're going to spend some time talking about here, -[2113.50 --> 2123.42] is that you are loved. Loved by God, loved by Jesus, and loved by us at this church. And so, -[2123.98 --> 2128.78] without sounding creepy, I love you. I want you to know that. -[2130.60 --> 2135.02] My daughter just rolled her eyes at me. This isn't going well for me, guys. -[2135.02 --> 2138.24] Let's pray together, okay? -[2141.86 --> 2148.94] Lord Jesus, we thank you for your love, and I pray that each of these little ones here with us -[2148.94 --> 2159.00] and at home listening would know that love today. Love us so that we can love you. In Jesus' name we pray. -[2159.00 --> 2166.42] Amen. All right, let's stand up. We're going to do the children's blessing. Do we need to practice it, -[2166.44 --> 2171.00] or do you think we can just do it straight off? Straight off. Okay, let's do it. Ready? -[2171.70 --> 2180.14] Hands up. The Lord be with you. Amen. Good job, guys. Head on out. -[2189.00 --> 2204.74] Testing, testing. Working? It's good. All right. Good. -[2209.74 --> 2213.54] Well, I kind of wanted to say this to you all. Happy New Year. You know, New Year's Eve, -[2213.54 --> 2218.10] when midnight comes, everybody says, Happy New Year. So, I'm saying that to you this morning. -[2218.10 --> 2223.98] Happy New Year. It's good to see you all this morning. I trust you all had a good Christmas break. -[2225.90 --> 2231.78] As you reflect on last year and start approaching this year, you can probably—that song this morning -[2231.78 --> 2238.14] that the worship team was leading the first song, the chorus, Your Goodness is Running After Me. -[2238.60 --> 2242.76] I think at times when we start thinking about the next year, we reflect on the past year, -[2242.76 --> 2247.34] and you realize that it was—for some, it was a rough year, but there's still a lot of blessings -[2247.34 --> 2251.72] and a lot of goodness, and it's interesting how that line says, Your Goodness is Running After Me. -[2251.72 --> 2254.42] I felt that. That was kind of a nice way to put it. -[2254.42 --> 2263.90] This past year has been a year—I call it the year of the glasses for me. I'm wearing glasses a lot more than I want to, -[2263.90 --> 2269.26] so I'm calling that the year of the glasses. For me, that's how I'm terming it, so it's kind of one of those things. -[2269.26 --> 2271.74] I'm not wearing them right now, but you will see them soon, I'm sure. -[2271.74 --> 2280.18] We had a good Christmas break in our home. It's been good for some of you. We have a couple older kids, -[2280.18 --> 2285.92] so we got another grandkid this Christmas, so we're excited about that, so that's exciting in our home. -[2285.92 --> 2289.40] So we've had a good Christmas, and I hope you all have, too. -[2289.40 --> 2296.40] The new year, 2022 comes. New things, new opportunities, new start. -[2296.40 --> 2303.22] I hope you all have some time to reflect on that a little bit as 22 comes around. -[2303.22 --> 2308.32] Also, there's some unknowns that I'm sure are going to happen and may cause some anxiety, some new challenges, -[2308.32 --> 2313.80] hardships, sickness, and loss. I'm sure that's all going to touch all our lives as 22 comes along as well. -[2313.80 --> 2320.78] You always hear lots about New Year's resolutions at this time of year, and it's kind of comical. -[2320.78 --> 2324.36] Even on a couple days ago, you see a lot more people running on the streets already, -[2324.36 --> 2327.30] trying to get back into shape and adding new things to their life. -[2327.38 --> 2329.62] They want to turn over a new lease, so that's kind of good. -[2329.74 --> 2337.62] So I'm sure many of you have new goals and new ideas that you want to have for this coming year, -[2337.68 --> 2341.54] and pray that God will bless you with that and help you with those things. -[2341.54 --> 2345.08] I'm also up here as council, as chair. -[2345.08 --> 2348.60] I want to thank everybody for a great year we had last year with our staff, -[2348.60 --> 2352.80] and a lot of the initiatives we've done around the church, including this sanctuary. -[2352.80 --> 2358.58] It's looking really good, and we're well on our way to our goal of getting new chairs, so that's exciting, too. -[2360.78 --> 2363.66] Speaking of New Year's resolutions, if I can make this point, -[2363.72 --> 2368.90] if any of you want to add or give more time in committees and opportunities here at the church, -[2368.90 --> 2373.66] I would ask that you would consider that in your New Year's resolution planning over the next few days. -[2373.78 --> 2376.98] There's some committees and groups in our church that need some additional help yet, -[2377.04 --> 2379.78] so if you feel like you could give some time to that, that would be fantastic. -[2382.42 --> 2384.54] On that note, we'll just begin in prayer. -[2384.54 --> 2390.34] Dear Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be your name. -[2391.32 --> 2394.84] Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. -[2395.80 --> 2401.66] Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our sins as we forgive those who have sinned against us. -[2402.72 --> 2405.32] Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. -[2405.74 --> 2409.46] For yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever and ever. -[2409.46 --> 2413.84] Thank you, Lord, for this prayer that you have given us. -[2414.50 --> 2418.84] This is a prayer we need to recite often, but very appropriate as we start the new year, -[2419.36 --> 2423.68] as we put 2021 behind us and anticipate the year 2022 ahead. -[2424.82 --> 2428.24] May we keep you as our compass and lean on you throughout this new year. -[2429.56 --> 2432.62] May we celebrate the blessings from you of the coming year -[2432.62 --> 2435.98] and realize that all blessings are from you, -[2436.10 --> 2440.36] and may we trust in you when trials, challenges, and loss come in 2022. -[2441.22 --> 2445.40] That our lives are in your hands, and you will not burden us with more than we can handle. -[2447.06 --> 2450.32] Lord, we ask that you bless this church and congregation in 2022. -[2451.54 --> 2455.22] May we draw closer as a community and seek to spread your word in our world. -[2456.00 --> 2459.62] We ask you that you bless our ministries and programs that we have here at Emmanuel, -[2459.62 --> 2462.66] that they will be successful in 2022. -[2464.72 --> 2468.48] Please bless our staff as they facilitate the responsibilities they have. -[2469.04 --> 2472.52] Give them courage and strength to manage the challenges that they encounter. -[2473.08 --> 2477.56] May their work bear fruit and see your spirit working in the lives of those they shepherd. -[2479.18 --> 2484.36] Lord, we ask that you bless the work of the council as they lead the church through 2020-22. -[2484.36 --> 2490.14] May your spirit work and lead us as we navigate through the day-to-day work of council -[2490.14 --> 2492.68] as well as the big picture, long-term direction. -[2494.72 --> 2497.68] COVID is not going away, and it continues to affect our lives. -[2498.66 --> 2502.70] Lord, we think of schools and governments that need to constantly navigate these challenges, -[2503.08 --> 2506.88] as well as parents that have to navigate this as well with their children. -[2506.88 --> 2513.86] We think of those who are sick with COVID or the common flu, and we offer prayer for those here now, too. -[2515.74 --> 2520.08] As Christians and followers of you, we sit here at the start of 2022. -[2521.10 --> 2525.94] With you, Lord, on our corner, we can say about 2022, bring it on. -[2526.84 --> 2530.20] We look forward to this year to see blessings you will shower on us. -[2530.84 --> 2533.50] Help us to start this year with this sense of optimism. -[2533.50 --> 2539.68] If we struggle with loneliness or sickness, maybe we struggle with mental health issues -[2539.68 --> 2541.30] or know someone who is struggling. -[2542.14 --> 2544.40] Maybe we know of or are dealing with addictions. -[2545.70 --> 2548.54] My prayer is that, or our prayer is that, all of us will challenge, -[2549.78 --> 2553.50] all of us with our challenges can enter this next year with a sense of optimism -[2553.50 --> 2558.70] and be able to open our hearts to let God's power in to heal and to cause change. -[2560.42 --> 2562.52] We thank you, Lord, for all you have given us. -[2562.52 --> 2564.82] We eagerly await your return. -[2565.38 --> 2569.84] But as we wait, Lord, may we continue to strive to be a light for you in this world, -[2570.30 --> 2574.56] at work, at play, or just walking down the street or at the mall. -[2575.70 --> 2577.76] We ask all this in your name alone. -[2578.02 --> 2578.22] Amen. -[2592.52 --> 2611.74] We're going to spend some time together this morning in God's Word in Ephesians 1. -[2612.04 --> 2618.42] I'm going to encourage you to have a Bible in front of you as we'll spend some significant time there. -[2618.42 --> 2620.94] It will be on the screen behind me. -[2622.22 --> 2626.26] But, of course, I think it's better to have something in your hands, -[2626.32 --> 2630.44] whether it's a Bible or your phone device on the text there. -[2633.96 --> 2638.58] Before I read this text, let me set up a bit of a context for you. -[2638.58 --> 2641.66] We've just come out of the Christmas season here, -[2642.38 --> 2647.68] a season where most of us got or gave gifts. -[2647.68 --> 2655.34] And I want to know if you got what you wanted. -[2656.92 --> 2660.78] Did you get what was on your list, right? -[2660.86 --> 2663.52] Did everything that you submitted get crossed off? -[2663.58 --> 2665.12] Now, some of you are shaking your head yes. -[2665.44 --> 2667.54] Some of you are too scared to shake your head no. -[2667.86 --> 2671.58] And you're wondering what mom or dad or the person beside you is going to think. -[2671.84 --> 2673.46] I can tell you I got what I wanted. -[2673.46 --> 2676.60] I got this beautiful set of knife sharpening stones. -[2677.64 --> 2680.58] Maybe you don't know this about me, but usually not on Sundays, -[2680.72 --> 2683.60] but I carry a folding knife in my pocket with me wherever I go. -[2684.42 --> 2688.02] And it has gotten really dull, and I needed to sharpen it. -[2688.22 --> 2692.64] And so my mother-in-law got me this beautiful set of four different thousand grit -[2692.64 --> 2695.20] to 8,000 grit sharpening stones. -[2695.26 --> 2699.12] And I'm super excited to spend time getting my knife to that razor. -[2699.32 --> 2700.54] Anyway, you don't care about that. -[2700.54 --> 2705.00] I got what I wanted, and my list was checked off. -[2707.10 --> 2714.02] As we read this text, I want you to think about getting what you wanted -[2714.02 --> 2717.76] or getting what you need or thinking you got what you need -[2717.76 --> 2719.86] or having more or needing more. -[2720.04 --> 2726.58] And then through that lens, hear what Paul says to the church at Ephesus. -[2727.74 --> 2729.62] Ephesians 1, I'm going to start in verse 3. -[2730.54 --> 2736.28] Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, -[2736.42 --> 2743.80] who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. -[2745.10 --> 2751.70] For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. -[2751.70 --> 2759.96] In love, he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, -[2759.96 --> 2765.50] in accordance with his pleasure and will, to the praise of his glorious grace, -[2765.64 --> 2769.36] which he has freely given us in the one he loves. -[2770.44 --> 2775.64] In him, we have the redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, -[2775.64 --> 2780.94] in accordance with the riches of God's grace that he lavished on us. -[2782.10 --> 2787.16] With all wisdom and understanding, he made known to us the mystery of his will, -[2787.48 --> 2790.90] according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, -[2790.96 --> 2794.02] to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment, -[2794.02 --> 2799.16] to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ. -[2799.16 --> 2805.78] In him, you were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him -[2805.78 --> 2809.58] who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, -[2810.14 --> 2814.20] in order that we, who were the first to put our hope in Christ, -[2814.58 --> 2818.12] might be for the praise of his glory. -[2818.90 --> 2822.88] And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, -[2822.98 --> 2824.86] the gospel of your salvation. -[2824.86 --> 2829.22] When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, -[2829.42 --> 2831.44] the promised Holy Spirit, -[2831.78 --> 2835.26] who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance -[2835.26 --> 2840.32] until the redemption of those who are God's possession, -[2841.02 --> 2844.80] to the praise of his glory. -[2845.82 --> 2847.10] This is the word of the Lord. -[2849.92 --> 2852.10] Like we said, we just came through Christmas, -[2852.10 --> 2855.86] and more recently, even than that, we just celebrated. -[2856.86 --> 2861.10] Maybe celebrated is too strong a word for the kinds of things we got to do on New Year's Eve, -[2861.22 --> 2866.56] but we just celebrated New Year's Eve and this new year. -[2866.82 --> 2872.42] And as Eric mentioned, at the end of a year, we tend to take stock. -[2872.78 --> 2876.94] We take a look at our life and we see what is. -[2877.04 --> 2879.98] We tend to make plans and have hopes for the future. -[2879.98 --> 2884.00] We look at our life, we look at the things that we have, -[2884.04 --> 2886.26] or the things that we have just recently got, -[2886.42 --> 2890.56] and we begin to identify something that is lacking, -[2890.88 --> 2893.12] or something that we want to change, -[2893.24 --> 2896.88] or something that we want to make more of, or experience more of. -[2896.96 --> 2899.32] And so we make resolutions. -[2900.44 --> 2902.90] We make plans, we make resolutions, -[2902.90 --> 2904.86] we look at what we have, -[2904.86 --> 2912.78] and we begin to chart a path forward into the new year. -[2913.82 --> 2916.60] And we're going to do the same thing together this morning, -[2916.60 --> 2923.20] but in reference to our identity in Christ, -[2923.56 --> 2926.30] as Christians, as those who believe. -[2926.30 --> 2930.06] And so if you are here this morning and you're not sure you are a Christian, -[2930.74 --> 2935.68] I hold this out to you to whet your spiritual appetites. -[2935.78 --> 2941.54] I hold this out to you as a picture of what could be in your heart and in your mind. -[2941.64 --> 2945.62] And if you are here this morning as a Christian or watching online, -[2945.62 --> 2949.54] I hope that this is an encouragement and a reminder, -[2949.84 --> 2958.12] and you find yourself firmly in who God has created you and recreated you to be. -[2960.18 --> 2961.60] Now the thing is, -[2962.12 --> 2965.80] the longer you've been in a church community, -[2966.94 --> 2972.14] it seems to me the more familiar you are with Jesus, -[2972.14 --> 2978.50] the easier it is to forget what he says about you. -[2980.96 --> 2984.98] The more familiar you are with these teachings -[2984.98 --> 2987.50] or with coming to church for a lifetime, -[2987.90 --> 2992.92] the easier it is to forget or to take for granted who he says you are. -[2994.32 --> 2999.72] I want to start this way because I want to set up for us this morning a contrast, right? -[2999.72 --> 3004.36] Because things like resolutions and Christmas lists and gift exchange, -[3004.46 --> 3007.46] things like Boxing Day that follows up, right? -[3007.48 --> 3009.08] When you didn't get everything on your list, -[3009.14 --> 3010.82] you're like, well, it's 70% off now, -[3010.88 --> 3012.20] so I'm going to go get that new TV -[3012.20 --> 3014.00] because my kid threw a chair at the one in the basement. -[3016.22 --> 3017.30] There's a story there -[3017.30 --> 3024.06] that implies something about what we think about life here and now, -[3024.06 --> 3027.04] about what we have, -[3027.14 --> 3028.08] about what we need, -[3028.32 --> 3031.14] about what we believe we need to have. -[3032.52 --> 3034.68] And into that context, -[3035.56 --> 3036.32] Paul writes, -[3037.36 --> 3042.16] praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ -[3042.16 --> 3046.00] who has blessed us in the heavenly realms -[3046.00 --> 3052.70] with every spiritual blessing. -[3052.70 --> 3054.68] Now, first of all, -[3054.78 --> 3056.78] he has blessed us. -[3057.46 --> 3058.94] That's past tense. -[3059.24 --> 3059.86] He has. -[3059.94 --> 3060.86] It is done. -[3062.40 --> 3067.60] And he has blessed us with every spiritual blessing. -[3069.50 --> 3071.26] So, right at the outset, -[3071.68 --> 3075.16] Paul is saying that you have everything you need -[3075.16 --> 3076.46] for life and faith, -[3076.54 --> 3078.58] for spirituality and relationship to God. -[3078.66 --> 3081.38] He has already given that to you. -[3081.38 --> 3084.80] There's no more need for lists or gifts or resolutions. -[3084.80 --> 3087.66] No need to look for that one more thing, -[3087.82 --> 3088.76] that secret thing, -[3088.88 --> 3089.62] that extra thing, -[3089.70 --> 3090.64] that special thing, -[3090.94 --> 3091.10] right? -[3091.22 --> 3092.08] What you need, -[3092.18 --> 3092.80] you've got. -[3093.48 --> 3094.74] It's already here. -[3095.08 --> 3097.00] And the Bible tells us that by grace, -[3097.22 --> 3098.08] through faith, -[3098.46 --> 3100.58] you have received it already -[3100.58 --> 3102.40] if you believe. -[3107.04 --> 3107.64] But, -[3108.32 --> 3110.94] so often, -[3111.94 --> 3113.56] we forget. -[3114.84 --> 3115.70] So often, -[3115.80 --> 3117.00] we don't feel it. -[3117.08 --> 3118.30] We don't live it. -[3118.38 --> 3120.38] We don't really believe it -[3120.38 --> 3121.40] to be true. -[3121.68 --> 3121.96] And look, -[3121.96 --> 3125.24] I'm not trying to shame anyone here -[3125.24 --> 3126.94] who has doubts, -[3126.94 --> 3128.24] right? -[3128.24 --> 3130.88] And I'm not trying to say that there's something wrong with you -[3130.88 --> 3132.00] if you don't feel it. -[3132.04 --> 3132.36] At least, -[3132.50 --> 3133.76] there's not anything wrong with you -[3133.76 --> 3135.40] that isn't wrong with all of us, -[3135.44 --> 3135.62] right? -[3135.62 --> 3136.42] Because the truth is, -[3136.58 --> 3137.68] we all have doubts. -[3137.84 --> 3138.38] We all have struggles -[3138.94 --> 3140.22] when it comes to faith. -[3140.32 --> 3142.36] We all have short memories -[3142.36 --> 3146.16] when it comes to our new creation identities. -[3146.16 --> 3149.58] We all have competing loves -[3149.58 --> 3153.50] that want to captivate our heart's affection. -[3155.78 --> 3162.38] The human heart has a religious impulse, -[3163.60 --> 3163.70] right? -[3163.72 --> 3168.44] A religious sense that is inescapable and unavoidable. -[3169.70 --> 3170.88] The reality is, -[3170.98 --> 3173.16] if it isn't given proper expression -[3173.16 --> 3177.66] or proper object to land on, -[3178.10 --> 3179.90] your life, -[3180.90 --> 3182.40] something in your life, -[3182.56 --> 3184.90] will rush in to fill that void. -[3186.44 --> 3187.72] Now, in today's world, -[3188.00 --> 3189.68] maybe it has become politics, -[3190.58 --> 3190.74] right? -[3190.74 --> 3192.14] As we look to leaders -[3192.14 --> 3194.74] to make decisions for us on our behalf. -[3194.82 --> 3198.50] But maybe it is personal power or status. -[3198.78 --> 3199.94] Maybe it's stuff. -[3199.94 --> 3203.36] Maybe it's sex or pornography. -[3204.46 --> 3206.04] Maybe it's work, right? -[3206.12 --> 3209.04] And the status that comes with accomplishing something. -[3209.16 --> 3210.22] Maybe it's education. -[3211.10 --> 3212.08] Point is, -[3212.30 --> 3215.42] whenever we remove the object -[3215.42 --> 3217.42] of our religious affections -[3217.42 --> 3219.98] from the one whom it is properly directed, -[3220.16 --> 3221.30] that is the one true God, -[3221.44 --> 3223.66] Father, incarnate Son, and Holy Spirit, -[3224.18 --> 3226.54] whenever we remove our religious affections -[3226.54 --> 3227.94] from God, -[3227.94 --> 3229.36] they don't just disappear. -[3230.48 --> 3231.94] They become misdirected. -[3232.78 --> 3235.24] They become inappropriately filled. -[3236.90 --> 3240.24] Your life is that you love something -[3240.24 --> 3242.22] or someone as ultimate. -[3242.98 --> 3244.94] That's just how you are built. -[3246.46 --> 3249.78] And when the object of your ultimate religious affection -[3249.78 --> 3253.18] isn't God revealed in Jesus Christ, -[3253.18 --> 3255.88] whatever you make it -[3255.88 --> 3258.48] can't handle the weight -[3258.48 --> 3260.22] that you are putting on it. -[3261.22 --> 3263.74] It itself will be destroyed -[3263.74 --> 3265.20] by your need -[3265.20 --> 3266.54] for it to be ultimate -[3266.54 --> 3268.18] in your heart and life. -[3268.24 --> 3269.02] Let me illustrate this. -[3269.10 --> 3269.70] Think practically -[3269.70 --> 3270.94] with me. -[3271.94 --> 3274.18] If you make your spouse -[3274.18 --> 3275.42] ultimate, -[3275.82 --> 3278.48] or if you make getting a spouse -[3278.48 --> 3279.32] ultimate, -[3279.54 --> 3280.26] getting married -[3280.26 --> 3281.02] ultimate, -[3281.02 --> 3282.96] you will crush that person -[3282.96 --> 3284.80] under the weight of glory -[3284.80 --> 3286.58] that you are trying to put on them. -[3288.16 --> 3289.76] The same is true with your family. -[3290.16 --> 3291.94] If you think having a family -[3291.94 --> 3292.82] or if you think -[3292.82 --> 3295.08] reconciling your broken family -[3295.08 --> 3297.00] will finally fill you up, -[3298.00 --> 3300.26] you will crush your kids -[3300.26 --> 3302.08] with the weight of responsibility -[3302.08 --> 3303.98] that you are putting on them. -[3305.50 --> 3307.08] And we do it with our jobs. -[3307.30 --> 3308.46] We do it with beauty, -[3308.46 --> 3309.66] with our talents, -[3309.78 --> 3309.92] right? -[3309.96 --> 3311.20] We make good things, -[3311.28 --> 3312.40] we take these good things, -[3312.56 --> 3313.54] and we make them -[3313.54 --> 3314.84] into ultimate things. -[3315.06 --> 3316.36] And not only will they -[3316.36 --> 3317.40] disappoint us -[3317.40 --> 3318.22] time and time again, -[3318.34 --> 3319.88] they will crush us -[3319.88 --> 3321.42] and those around us -[3321.42 --> 3322.28] with the weight -[3322.28 --> 3323.12] of responsibility -[3323.12 --> 3324.18] that they weren't -[3324.18 --> 3325.24] created to handle. -[3329.74 --> 3331.04] And even as you hear me -[3331.04 --> 3331.74] say that, -[3332.22 --> 3333.14] some of you are going, -[3333.60 --> 3334.48] yeah, I know that. -[3334.48 --> 3337.40] Some of you are going, -[3338.90 --> 3340.98] I needed to be reminded of that. -[3341.58 --> 3343.20] Because we forget it, right? -[3343.24 --> 3344.48] Despite knowing better, -[3344.74 --> 3345.48] we do it anyway. -[3346.26 --> 3347.44] And so we need -[3347.44 --> 3348.48] a regular reminder. -[3349.48 --> 3350.72] We need to regularly, -[3351.16 --> 3352.48] habitually, ritually -[3353.16 --> 3354.88] recalibrate -[3354.88 --> 3356.38] our religious impulse. -[3356.58 --> 3357.48] We need to pull -[3358.12 --> 3359.64] our heart's attention -[3359.64 --> 3361.72] back to the right object -[3361.72 --> 3362.48] of our worship. -[3362.48 --> 3363.12] worship. -[3363.50 --> 3364.92] Only God can handle -[3364.92 --> 3365.82] the weight of your -[3365.82 --> 3366.92] religious affection. -[3368.18 --> 3369.54] Only God is the right -[3369.54 --> 3372.70] focus of your heart's -[3372.70 --> 3373.38] attention. -[3375.02 --> 3376.54] And each week in worship, -[3377.12 --> 3378.66] that's what we are doing. -[3380.24 --> 3380.44] Right? -[3380.52 --> 3381.46] Each week at church, -[3381.60 --> 3383.02] we remind ourselves -[3383.02 --> 3384.40] of these truths, -[3384.58 --> 3385.46] and we go through -[3385.46 --> 3387.18] the habitual and ritual -[3387.18 --> 3388.54] forming practices -[3388.54 --> 3390.28] of being made new, -[3390.40 --> 3391.40] of locating our -[3391.40 --> 3392.40] religious affections -[3392.40 --> 3394.14] on the right being. -[3395.10 --> 3396.04] This first Sunday -[3396.04 --> 3396.78] of the new year -[3396.78 --> 3398.78] is exactly that. -[3399.00 --> 3399.18] Right? -[3399.22 --> 3400.68] We are being reminded -[3400.68 --> 3401.64] by God -[3401.64 --> 3402.72] of who we are -[3402.72 --> 3403.30] in Him -[3403.30 --> 3404.44] and who He has -[3404.44 --> 3405.84] declared us to be. -[3407.56 --> 3408.32] And let me be -[3408.32 --> 3409.12] really clear. -[3410.24 --> 3410.42] Right? -[3410.54 --> 3411.74] Hearing it once -[3411.74 --> 3413.54] isn't enough -[3413.54 --> 3414.34] to sustain you -[3414.34 --> 3414.86] for the year. -[3414.86 --> 3417.46] So if you're the kind -[3417.46 --> 3417.78] of person -[3417.78 --> 3418.38] who is checking -[3418.38 --> 3419.16] the church box -[3419.16 --> 3419.96] on the first Sunday -[3419.96 --> 3420.48] available, -[3420.80 --> 3421.34] and you think -[3421.34 --> 3422.04] that's enough, -[3423.32 --> 3423.88] I'm sorry, -[3424.54 --> 3425.10] it's not. -[3426.06 --> 3427.22] We need to immerse -[3427.22 --> 3428.76] ourselves in these -[3428.76 --> 3429.56] truths because -[3429.56 --> 3430.86] the reality is -[3430.86 --> 3431.56] we live -[3431.56 --> 3432.26] immersed -[3432.26 --> 3433.42] in competing -[3433.42 --> 3434.26] affections. -[3435.74 --> 3436.44] And so, -[3436.58 --> 3437.48] while this is a great -[3437.48 --> 3438.58] way to start the year, -[3439.38 --> 3441.14] it can't be the only time -[3441.14 --> 3442.46] you hear it this year, -[3442.50 --> 3443.44] or even this month. -[3443.44 --> 3446.98] Praise be to the God -[3446.98 --> 3447.38] and Father -[3447.38 --> 3448.60] of our Lord Jesus Christ -[3448.60 --> 3449.74] who has blessed us -[3449.74 --> 3451.04] in the heavenly realms -[3451.04 --> 3452.28] with every spiritual -[3452.28 --> 3453.96] blessing in Christ. -[3454.12 --> 3454.72] And so, -[3455.62 --> 3457.04] what are those -[3457.04 --> 3457.94] blessings? -[3460.06 --> 3460.94] Knowing the answer -[3460.94 --> 3461.82] to that question -[3461.82 --> 3463.18] is how we will answer -[3463.18 --> 3464.32] our bigger question -[3464.32 --> 3464.80] this morning, -[3465.32 --> 3467.18] who am I? -[3469.42 --> 3470.64] The answer to the question -[3470.64 --> 3471.32] who am I -[3471.32 --> 3472.94] from Ephesians 1 here -[3472.94 --> 3473.72] is this. -[3473.88 --> 3474.96] Our identity -[3474.96 --> 3476.06] in Jesus -[3476.06 --> 3478.14] means that you are -[3478.14 --> 3479.10] adopted, -[3480.32 --> 3480.88] redeemed, -[3481.54 --> 3482.88] you are given a purpose -[3482.88 --> 3484.30] in God's plan, -[3484.72 --> 3486.04] you are made into -[3486.04 --> 3487.32] true and real -[3487.32 --> 3488.22] worshipers, -[3488.38 --> 3489.86] and you are filled -[3489.86 --> 3492.02] with God's power. -[3493.24 --> 3493.44] And so, -[3493.52 --> 3494.28] quickly this morning, -[3494.50 --> 3495.80] I have five points -[3495.80 --> 3496.20] for you. -[3497.80 --> 3499.16] Let's start with the first. -[3500.20 --> 3500.88] You are -[3500.88 --> 3502.10] adopted. -[3502.10 --> 3505.48] He chose us -[3505.48 --> 3506.28] in Him -[3506.28 --> 3508.38] before the creation -[3508.38 --> 3509.08] of the world -[3509.08 --> 3510.22] to be holy -[3510.22 --> 3511.06] and blameless -[3511.06 --> 3511.88] in His sight. -[3512.32 --> 3512.90] In love, -[3513.04 --> 3514.42] He predestined us -[3514.42 --> 3515.60] for adoption -[3515.60 --> 3517.00] to sonship -[3517.00 --> 3519.78] through Jesus Christ. -[3522.26 --> 3522.98] Now, -[3523.02 --> 3523.82] I think sometimes -[3523.82 --> 3525.10] we lose -[3525.10 --> 3526.04] the majesty -[3526.04 --> 3528.10] of this truth. -[3528.10 --> 3530.56] before there was -[3530.56 --> 3531.24] anything, -[3532.24 --> 3533.46] before God said, -[3533.68 --> 3534.38] let there be light -[3534.38 --> 3535.16] and then bang, -[3535.26 --> 3536.56] there was light. -[3537.20 --> 3538.26] Before God said, -[3538.64 --> 3539.64] let the waters -[3539.64 --> 3540.42] come together -[3540.42 --> 3541.06] and the land -[3541.06 --> 3542.22] be separated out. -[3542.52 --> 3543.42] Before God said, -[3543.52 --> 3544.60] let there be animals -[3544.60 --> 3545.62] to walk on the land -[3545.62 --> 3546.50] and birds to fly -[3546.50 --> 3546.94] in the air. -[3547.02 --> 3547.96] Before God said, -[3548.04 --> 3549.24] let there be man -[3549.24 --> 3549.80] and woman -[3549.80 --> 3551.16] in my image. -[3551.22 --> 3551.44] And so, -[3551.48 --> 3552.14] in the image of God, -[3552.20 --> 3553.06] He created them, -[3553.12 --> 3553.78] male and female, -[3553.88 --> 3554.46] He created them. -[3554.46 --> 3556.02] Before any of that, -[3558.54 --> 3559.10] God, -[3559.86 --> 3560.78] Father, -[3561.00 --> 3561.22] Son, -[3561.34 --> 3562.10] and Holy Spirit -[3562.10 --> 3563.04] in perfect harmony -[3563.04 --> 3564.12] with each other -[3564.12 --> 3565.82] thought -[3565.82 --> 3567.54] of you. -[3569.98 --> 3571.16] God thinks -[3571.16 --> 3572.90] of you -[3572.90 --> 3574.92] before the foundation -[3574.92 --> 3575.60] of the world. -[3576.60 --> 3577.60] And it's more than -[3577.60 --> 3578.80] just to save you, -[3579.04 --> 3579.16] right? -[3579.18 --> 3579.72] It's more than just -[3579.72 --> 3580.92] to call you to His own. -[3581.02 --> 3582.54] It's to sanctify you. -[3582.62 --> 3583.72] It is to grow you -[3583.72 --> 3584.36] in Him -[3584.36 --> 3585.16] to be, -[3585.32 --> 3586.44] what we read, -[3586.54 --> 3588.18] holy and blameless -[3588.18 --> 3589.62] in His sight. -[3590.72 --> 3591.88] God thought about -[3591.88 --> 3593.46] your beginning in Him -[3593.46 --> 3595.12] and your continuing -[3595.12 --> 3596.12] in Him. -[3596.20 --> 3597.22] In theological terms, -[3597.32 --> 3598.08] this is justification -[3598.08 --> 3599.44] and sanctification. -[3599.70 --> 3600.40] This is the start -[3600.40 --> 3601.40] to the finish. -[3601.78 --> 3602.66] There is now -[3602.66 --> 3603.74] no time -[3603.74 --> 3604.46] when God -[3604.46 --> 3605.68] is not with you, -[3606.06 --> 3606.82] working you, -[3606.98 --> 3607.94] working in you, -[3608.04 --> 3609.64] and working for you, -[3609.90 --> 3611.96] and working through you -[3611.96 --> 3613.12] to the world. -[3614.42 --> 3615.24] Surely I am with you -[3615.24 --> 3616.12] always to the very -[3616.12 --> 3617.56] end of the age, -[3617.80 --> 3618.40] says Jesus. -[3618.54 --> 3619.92] There is no time -[3619.92 --> 3620.64] when God -[3620.64 --> 3622.12] is not with you, -[3622.20 --> 3622.80] when God, -[3623.12 --> 3623.86] who is love, -[3623.94 --> 3625.38] is not thinking -[3625.38 --> 3626.26] of you. -[3626.38 --> 3627.76] You are adopted. -[3629.10 --> 3630.36] You are a son. -[3631.68 --> 3632.62] You are a daughter -[3632.62 --> 3635.68] of God. -[3635.68 --> 3637.18] You are adopted, -[3637.18 --> 3643.36] you are redeemed. -[3645.20 --> 3646.10] In Him, -[3646.46 --> 3647.40] we have redemption -[3647.40 --> 3648.50] through His blood, -[3649.12 --> 3650.16] the forgiveness of sins, -[3650.32 --> 3650.74] in accordance -[3650.74 --> 3651.44] with the riches -[3651.44 --> 3652.56] of God's grace -[3652.56 --> 3654.28] that He lavished -[3654.28 --> 3656.32] on us. -[3658.00 --> 3659.60] I love that word, -[3660.00 --> 3660.86] lavished. -[3662.28 --> 3662.68] That word, -[3662.80 --> 3663.66] in my mind and heart, -[3663.74 --> 3664.56] just sings. -[3664.56 --> 3666.04] It is plentiful, -[3666.16 --> 3666.96] it is abundant, -[3667.18 --> 3668.88] it is extravagant. -[3669.16 --> 3669.80] So how do you -[3669.80 --> 3671.40] experience God's grace -[3671.40 --> 3673.98] as lavish today? -[3676.36 --> 3677.54] We have received -[3677.54 --> 3678.80] redemption -[3678.80 --> 3680.82] through His blood. -[3680.88 --> 3680.98] Now, -[3681.08 --> 3681.96] the word redemption -[3681.96 --> 3685.58] means to take out from. -[3686.74 --> 3687.10] In fact, -[3687.14 --> 3687.70] if you think of -[3687.70 --> 3689.14] a redemption center, -[3689.60 --> 3689.82] right, -[3689.82 --> 3690.88] you bring something there -[3690.88 --> 3691.66] to take it out -[3691.66 --> 3692.84] of circulation, -[3693.10 --> 3693.28] right, -[3693.30 --> 3694.56] to make a change -[3694.56 --> 3695.54] of where it is. -[3696.44 --> 3696.70] And so, -[3696.84 --> 3697.42] this morning, -[3697.52 --> 3698.78] how do you experience -[3698.78 --> 3700.70] lavish redemption? -[3702.74 --> 3703.64] I want to suggest -[3703.64 --> 3704.78] a quick way -[3704.78 --> 3706.24] to remember -[3706.24 --> 3707.24] that, -[3707.96 --> 3708.20] right, -[3708.24 --> 3708.74] to experience -[3708.74 --> 3709.78] lavish redemption. -[3710.04 --> 3711.70] You are fully forgiven, -[3712.06 --> 3713.32] you are freely forgiven, -[3713.32 --> 3715.02] and you are forever forgiven. -[3715.02 --> 3717.66] So you are fully forgiven. -[3717.86 --> 3720.02] In Romans 8, -[3720.08 --> 3720.56] verse 1, -[3721.30 --> 3721.84] we read, -[3722.18 --> 3722.78] there is now -[3722.78 --> 3723.98] no condemnation -[3723.98 --> 3724.94] for those who are -[3724.94 --> 3726.58] in Christ Jesus. -[3727.86 --> 3729.56] There is no condemnation. -[3730.20 --> 3731.66] He has paid it all. -[3732.56 --> 3733.84] All of your sins, -[3735.52 --> 3735.80] gone. -[3737.46 --> 3737.64] Right, -[3737.68 --> 3738.64] you have no sin, -[3738.78 --> 3739.10] past, -[3739.42 --> 3739.64] present, -[3739.70 --> 3740.20] or future, -[3740.38 --> 3741.64] that has more power -[3741.64 --> 3743.14] than the cross of Christ. -[3743.14 --> 3743.22] past. -[3744.60 --> 3745.26] And here's -[3745.26 --> 3746.12] what that means. -[3746.96 --> 3747.56] It means that -[3747.56 --> 3748.50] your salvation -[3748.50 --> 3749.52] was not just -[3749.52 --> 3750.72] a past thing, -[3750.94 --> 3751.74] it means that -[3751.74 --> 3752.42] your salvation -[3752.42 --> 3753.86] is a continuing -[3753.86 --> 3755.72] now to save you -[3755.72 --> 3756.44] thing. -[3757.74 --> 3758.52] But so often, -[3758.88 --> 3759.20] we say, -[3759.28 --> 3760.10] but not me, -[3760.70 --> 3760.82] right, -[3760.84 --> 3762.16] not that sin, -[3762.24 --> 3763.24] not that thing -[3763.24 --> 3764.58] that nobody knows about, -[3764.66 --> 3765.54] that secret thing, -[3765.76 --> 3765.88] right, -[3765.92 --> 3766.80] you just don't know, -[3766.80 --> 3767.14] pastor, -[3767.24 --> 3768.46] how bad it has been. -[3771.18 --> 3772.08] Even there, -[3772.08 --> 3773.54] you are fully -[3773.54 --> 3774.90] forgiven. -[3776.40 --> 3777.56] And you are freely -[3777.56 --> 3778.32] forgiven. -[3778.40 --> 3778.88] And what we mean there -[3778.88 --> 3779.58] is that you cannot -[3779.58 --> 3781.16] earn the forgiveness -[3781.16 --> 3781.86] of God. -[3781.96 --> 3782.74] Ephesians 2, -[3782.88 --> 3783.66] 8 and 9, -[3783.78 --> 3785.18] for it is by grace -[3785.18 --> 3787.46] you have been saved. -[3788.18 --> 3789.60] And this is not by works, -[3789.84 --> 3790.68] but it is the gift -[3790.68 --> 3791.16] of God. -[3792.72 --> 3792.90] Now, -[3792.92 --> 3793.50] in the midst of -[3793.50 --> 3795.14] this free offer -[3795.14 --> 3796.18] of forgiveness -[3796.18 --> 3796.98] and grace -[3796.98 --> 3798.42] in our world -[3798.42 --> 3799.12] and in our culture -[3799.12 --> 3800.02] and in our hearts, -[3800.54 --> 3802.10] we so often say -[3802.10 --> 3803.60] nothing worth having -[3803.60 --> 3804.44] is free. -[3806.18 --> 3806.60] Right? -[3806.62 --> 3807.46] If I don't earn it, -[3807.62 --> 3808.78] if I don't work for it, -[3808.92 --> 3810.00] if I don't bend over -[3810.00 --> 3810.76] backwards in order -[3810.76 --> 3811.20] to get it, -[3811.30 --> 3812.26] it's not real. -[3815.58 --> 3816.44] And yes, -[3817.44 --> 3818.32] hear the gospel, -[3819.34 --> 3820.44] this grace -[3820.44 --> 3821.86] is free -[3821.86 --> 3822.94] to you. -[3824.08 --> 3825.00] Make no mistake -[3825.00 --> 3825.42] about it, -[3825.44 --> 3826.12] it costs -[3826.12 --> 3826.82] God -[3826.82 --> 3827.92] everything. -[3829.50 --> 3830.18] It's free -[3830.18 --> 3830.68] to you, -[3830.78 --> 3831.18] but it's -[3831.18 --> 3831.82] not -[3831.82 --> 3832.78] cheap. -[3835.36 --> 3836.12] You are -[3836.12 --> 3836.60] fully -[3836.60 --> 3837.24] forgiven, -[3837.38 --> 3837.60] you are -[3837.60 --> 3838.02] freely -[3838.02 --> 3838.50] forgiven, -[3838.66 --> 3839.36] and you are -[3839.36 --> 3840.10] forever -[3840.10 --> 3841.10] forgiven. -[3842.54 --> 3843.06] Hebrews -[3843.06 --> 3844.12] says, -[3844.48 --> 3845.50] Christ died -[3845.50 --> 3846.06] once -[3846.06 --> 3847.20] for all. -[3848.24 --> 3848.88] The altar -[3848.88 --> 3849.60] is closed. -[3849.96 --> 3850.54] You've got -[3850.54 --> 3851.20] nothing more -[3851.20 --> 3852.46] to lay on it. -[3852.54 --> 3853.04] There's nothing -[3853.04 --> 3853.40] left. -[3853.52 --> 3853.90] It is -[3853.90 --> 3855.00] already -[3855.00 --> 3856.04] paid for. -[3856.14 --> 3856.40] It is -[3856.40 --> 3856.92] all -[3856.92 --> 3857.52] already -[3857.52 --> 3858.54] paid for. -[3860.48 --> 3861.16] But here's -[3861.16 --> 3861.56] the struggle -[3861.56 --> 3862.14] that so many -[3862.14 --> 3862.56] of us -[3862.56 --> 3863.42] who are -[3863.42 --> 3863.86] familiar -[3863.86 --> 3864.72] with this -[3864.72 --> 3865.26] and yet -[3865.26 --> 3865.88] who continue -[3865.88 --> 3866.96] to live -[3866.96 --> 3867.46] in the midst -[3867.46 --> 3867.88] of this -[3867.88 --> 3869.24] hard truth -[3869.24 --> 3869.98] and reality, -[3870.20 --> 3870.86] so many -[3870.86 --> 3871.46] of us -[3871.46 --> 3872.54] try to -[3872.54 --> 3873.56] stay -[3873.56 --> 3874.36] forgiven. -[3876.64 --> 3877.24] And you -[3877.24 --> 3877.80] hear the -[3877.80 --> 3879.16] oxymoron -[3879.16 --> 3879.38] there, -[3879.46 --> 3879.66] right? -[3879.70 --> 3880.06] For those -[3880.06 --> 3880.40] of us -[3880.40 --> 3880.90] who are -[3880.90 --> 3881.78] fully -[3881.78 --> 3882.12] forgiven, -[3882.28 --> 3882.48] freely -[3882.48 --> 3882.86] forgiven, -[3883.02 --> 3883.30] forever -[3883.30 --> 3883.68] forgiven, -[3883.68 --> 3884.08] the idea -[3884.08 --> 3884.32] of trying -[3884.32 --> 3884.98] to stay -[3884.98 --> 3885.52] forgiven -[3885.52 --> 3887.06] sounds strange, -[3887.20 --> 3887.92] but we -[3887.92 --> 3888.46] continue to -[3888.46 --> 3888.74] do it, -[3888.78 --> 3888.86] right? -[3888.90 --> 3889.08] And what -[3889.08 --> 3889.52] that means -[3889.52 --> 3890.88] is that we -[3890.88 --> 3892.18] set up these -[3892.18 --> 3893.78] impossible moral -[3893.78 --> 3894.88] standards for -[3894.88 --> 3895.74] ourselves and -[3895.74 --> 3896.78] then we destroy -[3896.78 --> 3898.96] ourselves emotionally -[3898.96 --> 3899.66] and spiritually -[3899.66 --> 3900.66] when we sin -[3900.66 --> 3901.40] or when we fall -[3901.40 --> 3901.80] short. -[3901.94 --> 3902.68] And we think -[3902.68 --> 3903.24] that it means -[3903.24 --> 3903.86] that we haven't -[3903.86 --> 3904.56] then received -[3904.56 --> 3905.28] the redemption -[3905.28 --> 3905.98] through his -[3905.98 --> 3906.32] blood. -[3907.70 --> 3908.38] But here's -[3908.38 --> 3908.98] what happens, -[3909.76 --> 3910.22] and I want you -[3910.22 --> 3910.88] to listen closely -[3910.88 --> 3911.46] to this because -[3911.46 --> 3911.86] this is going -[3911.86 --> 3912.30] to hit home -[3912.30 --> 3912.64] for some -[3912.64 --> 3912.98] of you, -[3913.72 --> 3914.06] especially -[3914.06 --> 3914.48] for those -[3914.48 --> 3914.76] of you who -[3914.76 --> 3914.98] have been -[3914.98 --> 3915.40] around the -[3915.40 --> 3915.82] church for -[3915.82 --> 3916.08] a really -[3916.08 --> 3916.66] long time, -[3917.24 --> 3917.38] right? -[3917.42 --> 3917.80] In that -[3917.80 --> 3918.50] fight in -[3918.50 --> 3919.04] our hearts -[3919.04 --> 3920.06] to stay -[3920.06 --> 3920.68] forgiven, -[3921.26 --> 3922.16] the fight -[3922.16 --> 3923.00] that motivates -[3923.00 --> 3924.02] us to make -[3924.02 --> 3925.18] these impossibly -[3925.18 --> 3925.88] high moral -[3925.88 --> 3926.62] standards for -[3926.62 --> 3927.28] ourselves, -[3928.72 --> 3929.24] right, -[3929.32 --> 3929.76] what that means -[3929.76 --> 3930.58] is we don't -[3930.58 --> 3931.36] give ourselves -[3931.36 --> 3931.96] grace or we -[3931.96 --> 3932.66] don't let the -[3932.66 --> 3933.16] grace of God -[3933.16 --> 3933.70] fill us up, -[3933.84 --> 3934.64] that fight -[3934.64 --> 3935.66] is hard and -[3935.66 --> 3936.34] it is long -[3936.34 --> 3936.98] and it is -[3936.98 --> 3937.46] work and -[3937.46 --> 3938.16] honestly it's -[3938.16 --> 3938.96] too much work -[3938.96 --> 3939.60] to keep up. -[3939.86 --> 3940.48] It is impossible -[3940.48 --> 3941.18] for us to do. -[3941.18 --> 3941.78] And so, -[3941.90 --> 3942.20] what do we -[3942.20 --> 3942.48] do? -[3943.10 --> 3943.76] Instead of -[3943.76 --> 3944.30] turning back -[3944.30 --> 3945.00] to the gospel -[3945.00 --> 3945.78] that tells me -[3945.78 --> 3946.48] I am freely, -[3946.94 --> 3948.36] fully forgiven -[3948.36 --> 3949.94] and forever -[3949.94 --> 3950.44] forgiven, -[3950.86 --> 3951.78] that Jesus has -[3951.78 --> 3952.12] done it, -[3952.18 --> 3952.52] instead of -[3952.52 --> 3953.24] turning back -[3953.24 --> 3954.42] to that gospel, -[3955.12 --> 3955.62] what we do -[3955.62 --> 3956.30] is we start -[3956.30 --> 3957.20] pushing our -[3957.20 --> 3957.94] moralisms, -[3958.06 --> 3958.38] we start -[3958.38 --> 3958.92] pushing our -[3958.92 --> 3959.46] legalisms, -[3959.60 --> 3960.28] our high -[3960.28 --> 3960.96] standards of -[3960.96 --> 3961.64] morality out -[3961.64 --> 3962.00] on other -[3962.00 --> 3962.48] people. -[3963.94 --> 3964.56] And what -[3964.56 --> 3965.24] started as an -[3965.24 --> 3966.28] impossible standard -[3966.28 --> 3967.30] for ourselves -[3967.30 --> 3968.46] becomes the -[3968.46 --> 3969.52] impossible standard -[3969.52 --> 3970.54] by which we -[3970.54 --> 3971.42] look at other -[3971.42 --> 3972.70] people because -[3972.70 --> 3973.86] it's easier to -[3973.86 --> 3974.86] judge them -[3974.86 --> 3976.42] than to admit -[3976.42 --> 3977.04] the truth about -[3977.04 --> 3978.58] myself to -[3978.58 --> 3979.06] myself. -[3980.64 --> 3981.76] We blind -[3981.76 --> 3982.64] ourselves to -[3982.64 --> 3983.36] our need, -[3983.50 --> 3984.24] to our sin, -[3984.46 --> 3985.44] by highlighting -[3985.44 --> 3986.14] the sin of -[3986.14 --> 3986.48] others. -[3987.26 --> 3988.28] We judge -[3988.28 --> 3989.00] others so that -[3989.00 --> 3989.62] we can feel -[3989.62 --> 3990.40] better about -[3990.40 --> 3990.74] our own -[3990.74 --> 3991.18] garbage. -[3992.52 --> 3993.16] At least I'm -[3993.16 --> 3993.84] not that bad. -[3994.80 --> 3995.40] At least I -[3995.40 --> 3995.94] didn't cheat. -[3997.02 --> 3997.54] At least I -[3997.54 --> 3997.82] don't, -[3998.82 --> 3999.18] whatever, -[3999.74 --> 4000.14] fill in your -[4000.14 --> 4000.44] blank. -[4001.44 --> 4002.28] Instead of -[4002.28 --> 4003.04] God's word -[4003.04 --> 4003.52] being the -[4003.52 --> 4003.88] truth by -[4003.88 --> 4004.24] which we -[4004.24 --> 4004.78] see and -[4004.78 --> 4005.10] measure -[4005.10 --> 4005.90] ourselves, -[4006.08 --> 4006.60] we turn -[4006.60 --> 4007.04] to these -[4007.04 --> 4007.98] self-judgments -[4007.98 --> 4008.70] and we turn -[4008.70 --> 4009.04] them into -[4009.04 --> 4010.40] weapons against -[4010.40 --> 4011.00] others. -[4013.50 --> 4014.20] And the -[4014.20 --> 4014.64] world has -[4014.64 --> 4015.12] noticed. -[4016.48 --> 4017.26] If the -[4017.26 --> 4018.10] world judges -[4018.10 --> 4019.16] Christians as -[4019.16 --> 4020.10] judgmental, -[4020.34 --> 4021.36] as holier than -[4021.36 --> 4022.36] now, it's -[4022.36 --> 4023.36] because we -[4023.36 --> 4023.80] have done -[4023.80 --> 4024.10] this. -[4024.22 --> 4024.44] We've -[4024.44 --> 4024.94] blinded -[4024.94 --> 4026.02] ourselves to -[4026.02 --> 4026.42] our own -[4026.42 --> 4026.90] hearts and -[4026.90 --> 4027.48] our own -[4027.48 --> 4028.34] needs and -[4028.34 --> 4028.62] we've just -[4028.62 --> 4029.14] projected it -[4029.14 --> 4029.70] onto others -[4029.70 --> 4031.28] because it's -[4031.28 --> 4032.54] easier to -[4032.54 --> 4033.00] not deal -[4033.00 --> 4033.54] with me. -[4035.94 --> 4036.58] Instead, -[4037.58 --> 4038.64] you have -[4038.64 --> 4039.46] been blessed -[4039.46 --> 4040.60] with every -[4040.60 --> 4041.78] spiritual -[4041.78 --> 4042.80] blessing. -[4043.84 --> 4044.42] You have -[4044.42 --> 4045.32] been redeemed. -[4045.70 --> 4046.10] You have -[4046.10 --> 4046.84] redemption -[4046.84 --> 4047.70] which he -[4047.70 --> 4049.10] lavished on -[4049.10 --> 4049.38] you. -[4050.64 --> 4051.40] How did -[4051.40 --> 4051.70] he do -[4051.70 --> 4052.06] that? -[4052.96 --> 4053.48] He did -[4053.48 --> 4053.72] it by -[4053.72 --> 4054.14] Jesus -[4054.14 --> 4054.74] living the -[4054.74 --> 4055.14] life that -[4055.14 --> 4055.52] you should -[4055.52 --> 4056.04] have lived -[4056.04 --> 4057.50] and by -[4057.50 --> 4058.20] dying the -[4058.20 --> 4058.88] death that -[4058.88 --> 4059.56] you deserved. -[4060.00 --> 4060.92] Jesus did -[4060.92 --> 4061.70] what I -[4061.70 --> 4062.54] can't. -[4062.78 --> 4063.28] He lived -[4063.28 --> 4064.38] perfectly and -[4064.38 --> 4065.18] he gives -[4065.18 --> 4065.70] that to -[4065.70 --> 4065.94] me. -[4066.02 --> 4066.96] His perfect -[4066.96 --> 4067.70] righteousness -[4067.70 --> 4068.82] he freely -[4068.82 --> 4069.46] gives. -[4069.60 --> 4070.68] Jesus died -[4070.68 --> 4071.26] what I -[4071.26 --> 4072.00] deserve. -[4072.22 --> 4072.74] On the -[4072.74 --> 4073.36] cross he -[4073.36 --> 4074.02] took my -[4074.02 --> 4075.04] punishment for -[4075.04 --> 4075.56] sin, for -[4075.56 --> 4076.64] your sin. -[4076.82 --> 4077.32] That's the -[4077.32 --> 4077.78] gospel. -[4078.32 --> 4079.12] Short and -[4079.12 --> 4079.40] sweet. -[4079.78 --> 4080.16] Simple. -[4080.58 --> 4081.20] Jesus did -[4081.20 --> 4081.92] what I can't -[4081.92 --> 4082.48] and Jesus -[4082.48 --> 4083.06] died what -[4083.06 --> 4083.70] I deserve. -[4085.28 --> 4085.86] And because -[4085.86 --> 4086.52] of that -[4086.52 --> 4088.90] you, even -[4088.90 --> 4092.56] you, can -[4092.56 --> 4093.22] be fully -[4093.22 --> 4094.22] forgiven. -[4094.74 --> 4095.36] Freely -[4095.36 --> 4096.46] forgiven and -[4096.46 --> 4097.18] forever -[4097.18 --> 4098.34] forgiven. -[4099.90 --> 4100.48] Here just a -[4100.48 --> 4101.32] quick application -[4101.32 --> 4101.92] before I move -[4101.92 --> 4102.06] on. -[4103.26 --> 4104.14] How can -[4104.14 --> 4104.90] you know -[4104.90 --> 4106.48] that you -[4106.48 --> 4107.56] are fully, -[4107.98 --> 4108.28] freely, -[4108.60 --> 4109.00] forever -[4109.00 --> 4109.82] forgiven? -[4109.82 --> 4112.88] Now here's -[4112.88 --> 4113.24] what Jesus -[4113.24 --> 4114.64] taught when -[4114.64 --> 4114.94] he taught -[4114.94 --> 4115.42] his disciples -[4115.42 --> 4115.90] to pray. -[4116.10 --> 4116.22] And -[4116.22 --> 4117.04] providence of -[4117.04 --> 4117.56] God, Eric, -[4117.66 --> 4118.02] you starting -[4118.02 --> 4118.42] your prayer -[4118.42 --> 4118.92] that way was -[4118.92 --> 4119.40] perfect. -[4121.62 --> 4121.94] Jesus -[4121.94 --> 4122.60] prays, -[4123.44 --> 4124.12] forgive us -[4124.12 --> 4124.92] our sins. -[4125.54 --> 4125.86] What's the -[4125.86 --> 4126.24] next line? -[4131.92 --> 4132.44] As, -[4132.64 --> 4134.74] as we -[4134.74 --> 4135.52] forgive those -[4135.52 --> 4135.98] who sinned -[4135.98 --> 4136.60] against us. -[4136.98 --> 4137.56] Did you hear -[4137.56 --> 4137.86] that? -[4138.70 --> 4139.48] As you -[4139.48 --> 4140.00] forgive those -[4140.00 --> 4140.56] again, one -[4140.56 --> 4140.94] of the -[4140.94 --> 4141.56] marks that -[4141.56 --> 4142.18] you are -[4142.18 --> 4142.92] forgiven, -[4143.52 --> 4144.32] right, and -[4144.32 --> 4144.72] this is from -[4144.72 --> 4145.66] Jesus himself, -[4146.30 --> 4146.86] one of the -[4146.86 --> 4147.32] marks that -[4147.32 --> 4147.72] you are -[4147.72 --> 4148.76] forgiven is -[4148.76 --> 4149.28] that you -[4149.28 --> 4150.16] are forgiving. -[4152.50 --> 4153.38] And so, -[4153.98 --> 4154.92] who do you -[4154.92 --> 4155.52] need to -[4155.52 --> 4156.64] fully forgive, -[4157.08 --> 4158.06] freely forgive, -[4158.52 --> 4159.30] and forever -[4159.30 --> 4160.38] forgive? -[4162.42 --> 4163.20] I'm serving -[4163.20 --> 4163.74] that up to you. -[4163.74 --> 4164.22] You can think -[4164.22 --> 4164.70] on that over -[4164.70 --> 4165.00] the next -[4165.00 --> 4165.48] couple days. -[4165.48 --> 4166.48] God's -[4166.48 --> 4167.48] will. -[4167.48 --> 4167.64] We are -[4167.64 --> 4168.10] adopted, -[4168.94 --> 4169.42] we are -[4169.42 --> 4169.94] redeemed, -[4170.34 --> 4170.86] we are -[4170.86 --> 4171.48] given a -[4171.48 --> 4172.50] purpose in -[4172.50 --> 4173.32] God's -[4173.32 --> 4174.00] will. -[4176.00 --> 4176.88] He made -[4176.88 --> 4177.36] known to -[4177.36 --> 4177.88] us the -[4177.88 --> 4178.56] mystery of -[4178.56 --> 4179.08] his will -[4179.08 --> 4179.68] according to -[4179.68 --> 4180.06] his good -[4180.06 --> 4180.38] pleasure, -[4180.64 --> 4181.30] which he -[4181.30 --> 4182.16] purposed -[4182.16 --> 4183.82] in Christ, -[4184.30 --> 4184.76] to be put -[4184.76 --> 4185.40] into effect -[4185.40 --> 4185.86] when the -[4185.86 --> 4186.46] times reach -[4186.46 --> 4186.62] their -[4186.62 --> 4187.00] fulfillment, -[4187.42 --> 4187.82] to bring -[4187.82 --> 4188.62] unity to -[4188.62 --> 4189.80] all things -[4189.80 --> 4190.26] in heaven -[4190.26 --> 4191.02] and on -[4191.02 --> 4192.22] earth under -[4192.22 --> 4193.24] Christ. -[4197.30 --> 4197.94] God's -[4197.94 --> 4199.82] will can -[4199.82 --> 4200.20] be -[4200.20 --> 4200.86] mysterious, -[4201.74 --> 4202.98] and God's -[4202.98 --> 4203.92] plan can -[4203.92 --> 4206.46] be weird -[4206.46 --> 4207.58] and strange, -[4207.72 --> 4209.10] and to be -[4209.10 --> 4209.84] honest, and -[4209.84 --> 4210.84] to be truthful -[4210.84 --> 4211.46] here, you -[4211.46 --> 4212.44] can question -[4212.44 --> 4212.76] it. -[4213.34 --> 4214.22] God invites -[4214.22 --> 4215.04] your questions -[4215.04 --> 4216.14] as you -[4216.14 --> 4216.88] struggle through -[4216.88 --> 4218.04] the day-to-day -[4218.04 --> 4218.84] things of -[4218.84 --> 4219.20] life. -[4220.02 --> 4220.74] But even -[4220.74 --> 4221.54] as you ask -[4221.54 --> 4222.40] those questions, -[4222.84 --> 4223.70] also know -[4223.70 --> 4224.28] that God -[4224.28 --> 4225.18] does indeed -[4225.18 --> 4225.78] have a -[4225.78 --> 4226.18] plan. -[4227.28 --> 4227.60] And that -[4227.60 --> 4228.22] plan not -[4228.22 --> 4229.44] only includes -[4229.44 --> 4230.40] you, right, -[4230.44 --> 4231.30] God's plan -[4231.30 --> 4231.98] is made -[4231.98 --> 4232.76] known to -[4232.76 --> 4233.04] you. -[4234.04 --> 4234.42] In the -[4234.42 --> 4234.92] end, there -[4234.92 --> 4235.44] is no -[4235.44 --> 4236.36] surprise for -[4236.36 --> 4236.90] the Christian -[4236.90 --> 4237.74] man or -[4237.74 --> 4238.90] woman about -[4238.90 --> 4239.52] what God -[4239.52 --> 4240.02] is doing -[4240.02 --> 4240.36] in the -[4240.36 --> 4240.62] world. -[4241.18 --> 4241.70] God has -[4241.70 --> 4242.44] a plan to -[4242.44 --> 4243.38] bring all -[4243.38 --> 4243.90] things in -[4243.90 --> 4244.40] heaven and -[4244.40 --> 4244.70] on earth -[4244.70 --> 4245.40] together under -[4245.40 --> 4246.08] one head, -[4246.68 --> 4246.98] Christ. -[4250.28 --> 4251.02] God has -[4251.02 --> 4252.88] a plan and -[4252.88 --> 4253.30] God is -[4253.30 --> 4254.44] sovereign over -[4254.44 --> 4255.50] that plan and -[4255.50 --> 4256.08] that means -[4256.08 --> 4257.00] that everything -[4257.00 --> 4257.86] that happens, -[4258.92 --> 4261.22] everything is -[4261.22 --> 4261.92] accounted for -[4261.92 --> 4262.40] in God's -[4262.40 --> 4262.66] plan. -[4264.16 --> 4265.68] Now, some -[4265.68 --> 4266.08] of you don't -[4266.08 --> 4266.46] like that -[4266.46 --> 4266.78] idea. -[4267.82 --> 4268.34] Some of you -[4268.34 --> 4268.86] think that -[4268.86 --> 4269.22] that makes -[4269.22 --> 4269.74] God out to -[4269.74 --> 4270.42] be a tyrant -[4270.42 --> 4271.44] or malevolent, -[4271.84 --> 4272.00] right? -[4272.04 --> 4272.66] If God has -[4272.66 --> 4273.26] a plan, if -[4273.26 --> 4273.72] God was -[4273.72 --> 4274.58] sovereign, if -[4274.58 --> 4275.04] God really -[4275.04 --> 4276.32] loved me or -[4276.32 --> 4277.14] loved her or -[4277.14 --> 4277.66] loved him, -[4277.88 --> 4278.30] he wouldn't -[4278.30 --> 4278.66] have let -[4278.66 --> 4279.34] cancer come. -[4279.34 --> 4280.70] Grandma wouldn't -[4280.70 --> 4281.26] have died. -[4281.50 --> 4281.98] I wouldn't -[4281.98 --> 4282.42] have lost -[4282.42 --> 4283.00] my job. -[4286.20 --> 4286.54] Now, if you -[4286.54 --> 4287.00] try to -[4287.00 --> 4288.94] suggest that -[4288.94 --> 4290.06] things happen -[4290.06 --> 4291.68] outside of -[4291.68 --> 4292.48] the will of -[4292.48 --> 4294.58] God, your -[4294.58 --> 4295.38] God isn't -[4295.38 --> 4296.12] big enough to -[4296.12 --> 4296.62] be God. -[4297.98 --> 4298.46] Right? -[4298.48 --> 4298.94] If you want -[4298.94 --> 4299.52] a God who -[4299.52 --> 4300.40] is big enough -[4300.40 --> 4301.52] to be angry -[4301.52 --> 4302.42] at when things -[4302.42 --> 4303.54] go wrong, you -[4303.54 --> 4304.42] also have to -[4304.42 --> 4305.22] accept a God -[4305.22 --> 4306.10] who is sovereign -[4306.10 --> 4306.70] enough, who -[4306.70 --> 4307.52] is God -[4307.52 --> 4308.72] enough, who -[4308.72 --> 4309.66] is big enough -[4309.66 --> 4310.48] to have -[4310.48 --> 4312.00] reasons that -[4312.00 --> 4312.56] you can't -[4312.56 --> 4313.90] understand, to -[4313.90 --> 4314.68] have a purpose -[4314.68 --> 4315.64] for you needing -[4315.64 --> 4316.70] to endure this, -[4317.08 --> 4317.54] that, or the -[4317.54 --> 4318.22] other thing, things -[4318.22 --> 4319.06] that appear wrong -[4319.06 --> 4320.54] or unjust, God -[4320.54 --> 4321.12] has a plan. -[4323.20 --> 4324.00] The book of -[4324.00 --> 4324.62] Job in the -[4324.62 --> 4325.16] Old Testament -[4325.16 --> 4326.36] deals with this -[4326.36 --> 4327.16] entire question, -[4327.28 --> 4328.00] and right at the -[4328.00 --> 4329.70] very beginning, Job -[4329.70 --> 4330.54] asks a question. -[4330.64 --> 4331.18] In chapter 2, -[4331.24 --> 4331.78] verse 10, he -[4331.78 --> 4332.52] says, shall we -[4332.52 --> 4333.76] accept only good -[4333.76 --> 4334.92] from God and -[4334.92 --> 4335.82] not trouble? -[4335.82 --> 4338.50] So, at the -[4338.50 --> 4339.12] beginning of this -[4339.12 --> 4340.42] new year, right, -[4340.48 --> 4341.48] after this past -[4341.48 --> 4342.04] year, which we're -[4342.04 --> 4342.72] all quite content -[4342.72 --> 4343.56] to leave in the -[4343.56 --> 4345.02] past, is your -[4345.02 --> 4346.66] conception of God -[4346.66 --> 4347.88] big enough to -[4347.88 --> 4349.16] include the -[4349.16 --> 4349.80] things that we -[4349.80 --> 4350.78] can't or that we -[4350.78 --> 4351.54] don't even want -[4351.54 --> 4352.82] to understand? -[4353.90 --> 4354.72] Because that's -[4354.72 --> 4355.70] what it means to -[4355.70 --> 4356.30] be given a -[4356.30 --> 4358.14] purpose in God's -[4358.14 --> 4360.58] will, that he -[4360.58 --> 4362.14] has a plan for -[4362.14 --> 4363.40] you, a purpose -[4363.40 --> 4364.24] for you. -[4364.24 --> 4365.10] And right here, -[4365.48 --> 4366.24] right now, he -[4366.24 --> 4367.36] is working that -[4367.36 --> 4368.20] out. -[4370.48 --> 4371.44] Who am I? -[4372.92 --> 4373.44] Adopted, -[4374.02 --> 4374.44] redeemed, -[4374.88 --> 4375.72] given a purpose -[4375.72 --> 4376.82] and a plan in -[4376.82 --> 4377.76] God's will, and -[4377.76 --> 4379.48] for you are a -[4379.48 --> 4381.14] true worshiper. -[4385.94 --> 4386.94] In him we were -[4386.94 --> 4387.94] also chosen, having -[4387.94 --> 4388.72] been predestined -[4388.72 --> 4389.34] according to the -[4389.34 --> 4390.10] plan of him who -[4390.10 --> 4390.96] works out everything -[4390.96 --> 4392.40] in conformity with -[4392.40 --> 4393.18] the purpose of his -[4393.18 --> 4394.18] will, verse 12, -[4394.24 --> 4395.82] in order that we, -[4396.50 --> 4396.92] who were the -[4396.92 --> 4397.78] first to put our -[4397.78 --> 4398.66] hope in Christ, -[4399.08 --> 4400.14] might be for the -[4400.14 --> 4401.56] praise of his -[4401.56 --> 4402.58] glory. -[4403.88 --> 4405.36] For the praise -[4405.36 --> 4406.66] of his -[4406.66 --> 4407.78] glory. -[4408.62 --> 4410.24] God chose you, -[4410.42 --> 4411.72] he predestined -[4411.72 --> 4412.82] you, he adopted -[4412.82 --> 4414.22] you, he planned -[4414.22 --> 4415.56] for you before the -[4415.56 --> 4416.58] foundation of the -[4416.58 --> 4417.88] world in order -[4417.88 --> 4418.82] that for the -[4418.82 --> 4419.86] purpose of, so -[4419.86 --> 4421.34] that you might be -[4421.34 --> 4422.72] for the praise of -[4422.72 --> 4424.28] his glory, so -[4424.28 --> 4425.26] that you might be -[4425.26 --> 4426.48] a true -[4426.48 --> 4427.26] worshiper. -[4428.78 --> 4429.46] There is nothing -[4429.46 --> 4430.78] bigger or -[4430.78 --> 4432.38] better than the -[4432.38 --> 4433.78] glory of -[4433.78 --> 4434.54] God. -[4435.46 --> 4435.66] Right? -[4435.80 --> 4437.00] God who is -[4437.00 --> 4438.72] all in all, is -[4438.72 --> 4440.02] most magnificent, -[4440.26 --> 4440.98] is most -[4440.98 --> 4442.02] marvelous, is -[4442.02 --> 4442.94] most amazing, -[4443.14 --> 4443.84] most worthy -[4443.84 --> 4444.60] of praise. -[4444.68 --> 4445.58] He is most -[4445.58 --> 4446.30] awesome. -[4446.42 --> 4447.14] There is none -[4447.14 --> 4447.54] greater. -[4447.72 --> 4448.70] He alone is -[4448.70 --> 4449.40] worthy of all -[4449.40 --> 4450.56] glory and honor -[4450.56 --> 4451.32] and praise. -[4451.48 --> 4452.26] He is the -[4452.26 --> 4453.46] most beautiful. -[4453.66 --> 4454.30] There is no -[4454.30 --> 4455.88] being better or -[4455.88 --> 4457.08] more worthy of my -[4457.08 --> 4458.28] love and affection -[4458.28 --> 4460.06] and he is big -[4460.06 --> 4461.24] enough, he alone -[4461.24 --> 4462.56] is big enough, to -[4462.56 --> 4463.76] handle the weight -[4463.76 --> 4464.96] of my ultimate -[4464.96 --> 4465.72] affections. -[4466.70 --> 4467.76] That's who God -[4467.76 --> 4468.14] is. -[4469.38 --> 4470.32] That means -[4470.32 --> 4471.42] something for who -[4471.42 --> 4472.30] you are in -[4472.30 --> 4473.00] him. -[4474.24 --> 4475.60] I really like the -[4475.60 --> 4476.56] way the Westminster -[4476.56 --> 4477.88] Shorter Confession -[4477.88 --> 4478.34] puts it. -[4479.02 --> 4479.38] You've probably -[4479.38 --> 4479.86] heard me say -[4479.86 --> 4480.42] this before. -[4480.50 --> 4480.90] It asks the -[4480.90 --> 4481.94] question, what -[4481.94 --> 4482.86] is the chief -[4482.86 --> 4483.78] end of -[4483.78 --> 4484.76] humanity? -[4485.44 --> 4486.08] Why are you -[4486.08 --> 4486.36] here? -[4487.00 --> 4487.52] Why were you -[4487.52 --> 4487.90] created? -[4488.00 --> 4488.34] What is your -[4488.34 --> 4489.30] purpose, your -[4489.30 --> 4490.08] telos? -[4490.46 --> 4491.56] The answer, to -[4491.56 --> 4493.24] glorify God and -[4493.24 --> 4494.50] enjoy him -[4494.50 --> 4495.48] forever. -[4496.08 --> 4497.44] To glorify God -[4497.44 --> 4498.24] and enjoy him -[4498.24 --> 4499.42] forever in order -[4499.42 --> 4500.68] that we might be -[4500.68 --> 4502.36] for the praise of -[4502.36 --> 4503.90] his glory. -[4505.78 --> 4507.24] John Piper is a -[4507.24 --> 4507.82] pastor and -[4507.82 --> 4508.38] theologian. -[4508.38 --> 4510.40] he has a line, -[4510.50 --> 4511.00] a quote that -[4511.00 --> 4512.70] says, God is -[4512.70 --> 4514.12] most glorified in -[4514.12 --> 4515.74] us when we are -[4515.74 --> 4517.86] most satisfied in -[4517.86 --> 4518.18] him. -[4519.76 --> 4521.80] You glorify God by -[4521.80 --> 4522.96] making him your -[4522.96 --> 4524.56] all in all. -[4525.38 --> 4526.20] That's real -[4526.20 --> 4526.62] worship. -[4527.64 --> 4528.28] That's what this -[4528.28 --> 4528.80] is about. -[4529.14 --> 4530.00] Here, right here -[4530.00 --> 4530.94] we get a taste. -[4531.36 --> 4532.32] Next week at the -[4532.32 --> 4533.12] Lord's Supper where -[4533.12 --> 4534.00] we gather together, -[4534.20 --> 4534.84] we're going to get -[4534.84 --> 4535.50] even more of a -[4535.50 --> 4535.84] taste. -[4535.84 --> 4537.70] This is supposed -[4537.70 --> 4538.88] to be a place -[4538.88 --> 4539.74] where you can -[4539.74 --> 4540.58] encounter the -[4540.58 --> 4541.64] living God in a -[4541.64 --> 4542.34] way that you can -[4542.34 --> 4544.00] see and hear and -[4544.00 --> 4545.20] taste and know. -[4545.52 --> 4546.40] That's what real -[4546.40 --> 4547.48] worship is about. -[4548.52 --> 4550.10] And you are made -[4550.10 --> 4551.56] to be a real -[4551.56 --> 4552.46] worshiper. -[4552.46 --> 4559.14] I'm going to -[4559.14 --> 4559.84] offend some of you -[4559.84 --> 4560.26] right now. -[4561.58 --> 4562.50] I just want to -[4562.50 --> 4562.90] warn you. -[4563.34 --> 4563.86] Trigger warning. -[4565.22 --> 4565.96] You were created, -[4566.14 --> 4566.90] redeemed, adopted, -[4567.00 --> 4567.76] and chosen before the -[4567.76 --> 4568.48] foundation of the -[4568.48 --> 4569.88] world for the -[4569.88 --> 4570.50] praise of his -[4570.50 --> 4570.86] glory. -[4571.36 --> 4572.00] You have been -[4572.00 --> 4572.62] blessed with an -[4572.62 --> 4573.42] opportunity to -[4573.42 --> 4574.40] worship God in -[4574.40 --> 4575.38] spirit and in -[4575.38 --> 4576.44] truth to come into -[4576.44 --> 4577.74] this space and -[4577.74 --> 4579.10] witness Jesus coming -[4579.10 --> 4579.64] to you. -[4579.64 --> 4581.10] And sometimes -[4581.10 --> 4583.76] your attitude -[4583.76 --> 4585.26] sucks. -[4588.60 --> 4589.40] Let me be clear, -[4589.46 --> 4589.94] I'm preaching to -[4589.94 --> 4591.04] myself as well. -[4592.56 --> 4593.44] When you come to -[4593.44 --> 4594.40] church on Sunday -[4594.40 --> 4596.06] and the first thing -[4596.06 --> 4596.70] out of your mouth -[4596.70 --> 4597.50] or the first thought -[4597.50 --> 4598.02] in your head, -[4598.28 --> 4599.00] the first feeling -[4599.00 --> 4599.90] in your heart is a -[4599.90 --> 4600.74] grumbling about -[4600.74 --> 4601.60] something you don't -[4601.60 --> 4601.94] like. -[4602.72 --> 4603.50] I don't like the -[4603.50 --> 4604.12] way that stage -[4604.12 --> 4604.44] looks. -[4605.08 --> 4605.94] I don't like being -[4605.94 --> 4606.56] told to wear a -[4606.56 --> 4606.90] mask. -[4607.50 --> 4608.22] I don't like this -[4608.22 --> 4608.58] band. -[4608.58 --> 4610.00] I don't like that -[4610.00 --> 4610.40] song. -[4611.20 --> 4611.88] I don't like that -[4611.88 --> 4612.20] preacher. -[4613.62 --> 4614.66] When you come here -[4614.66 --> 4615.44] grumbling and -[4615.44 --> 4616.40] complaining and -[4616.40 --> 4617.28] your heart attitude -[4617.28 --> 4619.70] sucks, you are -[4619.70 --> 4621.74] denying yourself the -[4621.74 --> 4623.16] very purpose for -[4623.16 --> 4623.80] which you have been -[4623.80 --> 4624.20] adopted. -[4624.96 --> 4626.04] The praise and -[4626.04 --> 4627.16] glory of God. -[4627.74 --> 4628.64] And your selfish -[4628.64 --> 4630.02] attitude is stopping -[4630.02 --> 4631.18] you from that -[4631.18 --> 4631.54] purpose. -[4633.20 --> 4634.10] Here's what I know. -[4634.38 --> 4635.14] For some of you, -[4635.26 --> 4636.36] for probably most of -[4636.36 --> 4637.14] you, if statistics -[4637.14 --> 4637.96] bear it out, no, you -[4637.96 --> 4638.60] guys are better than -[4638.60 --> 4639.48] statistics, so maybe -[4639.48 --> 4640.22] there's a few more. -[4641.00 --> 4642.10] But for most of you, -[4642.26 --> 4643.94] this here and now, -[4644.02 --> 4644.96] this hour, hour and -[4644.96 --> 4645.84] a half, depending on -[4645.84 --> 4647.36] how things go, is the -[4647.36 --> 4648.74] only time of the week -[4648.74 --> 4649.38] where you will open -[4649.38 --> 4649.84] your Bible. -[4651.02 --> 4652.22] The only chance you -[4652.22 --> 4653.52] have to give yourself -[4653.52 --> 4655.00] to hear God, to talk -[4655.00 --> 4656.44] to God, to listen for -[4656.44 --> 4656.90] his leading. -[4658.30 --> 4659.46] And for some of you, -[4659.72 --> 4660.64] right, this is the only -[4660.64 --> 4661.68] chance that you have -[4661.68 --> 4662.92] to gather with -[4662.92 --> 4664.88] Christians until next -[4664.88 --> 4666.48] week when we do it -[4666.48 --> 4666.82] again. -[4668.36 --> 4669.58] Don't take that for -[4669.58 --> 4670.08] granted. -[4671.56 --> 4672.80] Don't come, whether in -[4672.80 --> 4674.46] person or online, with -[4674.46 --> 4675.86] grumbling hearts. -[4676.12 --> 4677.44] Yes, come authentically. -[4677.78 --> 4678.56] Come as you are. -[4678.68 --> 4680.26] Bring everything you have -[4680.26 --> 4682.08] into this space, even if -[4682.08 --> 4683.38] that's your anger, even if -[4683.38 --> 4684.18] that's your disappointment, -[4684.54 --> 4686.02] even if that's your rage at -[4686.02 --> 4687.28] everything that's going on. -[4688.04 --> 4690.12] But come ready to meet -[4690.12 --> 4690.90] God. -[4691.48 --> 4693.60] Come expecting that God has -[4693.60 --> 4695.40] something for you in this -[4695.40 --> 4696.20] time together. -[4696.60 --> 4697.88] Don't come grumbling and -[4697.88 --> 4699.20] putting up walls that are -[4699.20 --> 4699.78] going to make it even -[4699.78 --> 4701.22] harder to hear the voice of -[4701.22 --> 4702.22] Jesus in our gathering. -[4705.42 --> 4706.44] Do you do that for the -[4706.44 --> 4706.84] next year? -[4710.20 --> 4711.28] You are adopted. -[4712.28 --> 4713.46] You are redeemed. -[4713.88 --> 4715.22] You are given a purpose in -[4715.22 --> 4716.36] the plan of God, and you -[4716.36 --> 4717.92] are a real worshiper. -[4717.92 --> 4719.84] And then fifth, finally, you -[4719.84 --> 4722.98] are filled with God's -[4722.98 --> 4723.70] power. -[4726.44 --> 4728.86] When you believed, you -[4728.86 --> 4730.42] were marked in him with a -[4730.42 --> 4732.24] seal, the promised Holy -[4732.24 --> 4734.08] Spirit, who is a deposit -[4734.08 --> 4735.66] guaranteeing our inheritance -[4735.66 --> 4737.38] until the redemption of -[4737.38 --> 4738.54] those who are God's -[4738.54 --> 4741.36] possessions to the praise of -[4741.36 --> 4742.92] his glory. -[4742.92 --> 4747.06] Lastly, most importantly, -[4747.26 --> 4750.66] perhaps, you are filled with -[4750.66 --> 4752.50] the Holy Spirit. -[4753.74 --> 4755.00] Okay, the only way that you -[4755.00 --> 4756.56] can be adopted, let alone -[4756.56 --> 4757.70] know that you are adopted, -[4757.94 --> 4759.46] the only way that you can be -[4759.46 --> 4761.02] united to the redemption -[4761.02 --> 4762.62] bought by his blood, the -[4762.62 --> 4763.78] only way that you are given -[4763.78 --> 4765.36] a purpose and a plan and -[4765.36 --> 4766.38] that you can know that -[4766.38 --> 4767.94] purpose, the only way that -[4767.94 --> 4768.88] you can worship in the -[4768.88 --> 4770.48] Spirit and in truth as a real -[4770.48 --> 4772.58] worshiper is because of the -[4772.58 --> 4773.38] Holy Spirit. -[4775.62 --> 4777.26] Now, years ago, Francis -[4777.26 --> 4778.82] Chan wrote a great little -[4778.82 --> 4780.46] book called Forgotten God. -[4780.56 --> 4782.16] The idea was that sometimes -[4782.16 --> 4784.14] it is easy to overlook the -[4784.14 --> 4785.82] role and power and presence -[4785.82 --> 4788.54] of the Holy Spirit and his -[4788.54 --> 4790.82] necessity for life and faith -[4790.82 --> 4791.46] in Jesus. -[4792.38 --> 4794.90] And I think, generally, in our -[4794.90 --> 4797.32] tradition, we are guilty of -[4797.32 --> 4797.70] the same. -[4798.88 --> 4800.48] Now, let me be clear, okay? -[4800.54 --> 4802.06] I'm not talking about special -[4802.06 --> 4803.38] gifts or tongues or prophecy -[4803.38 --> 4804.80] or healing, right? -[4804.80 --> 4805.82] I'm not talking about -[4805.82 --> 4807.52] everybody needing to be -[4807.52 --> 4808.82] happy, clappy, or dancing -[4808.82 --> 4810.48] in the aisles, slain in the -[4810.48 --> 4811.36] Spirit, right? -[4811.38 --> 4812.62] I am talking about the -[4812.62 --> 4814.28] ordinary life and faith -[4814.28 --> 4814.98] stuff. -[4815.12 --> 4816.86] The Holy Spirit is necessary -[4816.86 --> 4818.78] and required, an absolute -[4818.78 --> 4820.76] must for all of that. -[4821.52 --> 4822.72] How do I come to new -[4822.72 --> 4823.10] belief? -[4823.94 --> 4825.14] The work of the Holy Spirit. -[4825.38 --> 4826.54] How do I come to renewed -[4826.54 --> 4827.02] belief? -[4827.20 --> 4828.30] The work of the Holy Spirit. -[4828.44 --> 4829.94] How has my life changed for -[4829.94 --> 4830.22] Jesus? -[4830.22 --> 4831.16] The Holy Spirit. -[4831.28 --> 4833.26] How do I endure testing or -[4833.26 --> 4833.74] trial? -[4833.96 --> 4834.74] The Holy Spirit. -[4835.28 --> 4837.24] How does the Word of God -[4837.24 --> 4839.00] become living and active in -[4839.00 --> 4839.58] my life? -[4839.76 --> 4840.72] The Holy Spirit. -[4841.50 --> 4842.74] How is my prayer made -[4842.74 --> 4844.34] effective in the will of God -[4844.34 --> 4845.08] for the world? -[4845.40 --> 4846.42] The Holy Spirit. -[4847.44 --> 4849.66] How do I use my gifts to -[4849.66 --> 4851.70] serve and edify the church? -[4852.88 --> 4854.14] With the Holy Spirit. -[4855.40 --> 4857.52] God promises to equip you with -[4857.52 --> 4859.24] every spiritual blessing. -[4860.50 --> 4864.04] That is the Holy Spirit. -[4866.68 --> 4868.68] You can't do this on your own. -[4869.60 --> 4871.04] You can't do it at all, in -[4871.04 --> 4871.34] fact. -[4871.78 --> 4874.04] But God gives you himself, the -[4874.04 --> 4875.64] promised Holy Spirit, so that -[4875.64 --> 4878.20] it is him doing it in you and -[4878.20 --> 4879.64] with you and by your side. -[4880.98 --> 4882.76] Philippians 2, Paul says, -[4883.16 --> 4884.58] continue to work out your -[4884.58 --> 4886.10] salvation with fear and -[4886.10 --> 4887.44] trembling, so hear that, continue -[4887.44 --> 4889.34] to do this work, for it is -[4889.34 --> 4891.74] God who works in you to will -[4891.74 --> 4893.46] and to act in order to -[4893.46 --> 4895.58] fulfill his good purposes. -[4897.18 --> 4899.54] So maybe you've said, I don't -[4899.54 --> 4900.48] know if I can do this. -[4901.24 --> 4902.30] I don't know if I can handle -[4902.30 --> 4902.76] this. -[4903.92 --> 4904.90] Truth is, you can't. -[4905.98 --> 4908.26] On your own, you can't. -[4909.58 --> 4911.34] But you are not on your own -[4911.34 --> 4913.32] because you are not your own. -[4913.32 --> 4915.74] You were bought with a price. -[4916.24 --> 4916.32] Right? -[4916.40 --> 4918.08] God's Holy Spirit isn't just a -[4918.08 --> 4920.02] companion enabling you to -[4920.02 --> 4920.44] endure. -[4920.68 --> 4922.16] The Holy Spirit in you and with -[4922.16 --> 4923.94] you is a promise that you will -[4923.94 --> 4924.62] endure. -[4924.94 --> 4927.98] He is a deposit guaranteeing our -[4927.98 --> 4928.86] inheritance. -[4933.56 --> 4936.10] That's God's promise to you. -[4936.10 --> 4941.28] I don't want to overstate the -[4941.28 --> 4941.56] case. -[4942.84 --> 4943.90] So I'll put it this way. -[4944.38 --> 4945.88] The second most important -[4945.88 --> 4948.54] question anyone will ever ask -[4948.54 --> 4950.18] is, who am I? -[4951.94 --> 4952.88] Now you're wondering what the -[4952.88 --> 4954.48] first most important question is. -[4954.54 --> 4955.44] Well, that's who is Jesus? -[4956.34 --> 4957.50] But the answers are intimately -[4957.50 --> 4957.92] related. -[4959.58 --> 4960.44] Who am I? -[4960.44 --> 4966.48] Today and every day, you are -[4966.48 --> 4970.14] adopted sons and daughters, God. -[4970.88 --> 4974.74] You are redeemed by his lavish -[4974.74 --> 4975.50] love. -[4976.26 --> 4978.22] You are given a purpose and a -[4978.22 --> 4980.20] plan in his sovereign power. -[4980.38 --> 4983.10] You are a real worshiper of the -[4983.10 --> 4983.88] one true God. -[4984.02 --> 4986.06] And you have the power of that -[4986.06 --> 4988.80] God himself inside of you. -[4988.80 --> 4992.20] No matter what 2022 brings, -[4992.84 --> 4994.80] nothing can change that. -[4996.74 --> 5000.16] But imagine how much you would -[5000.16 --> 5002.80] be changed if you remembered this -[5002.80 --> 5003.68] truth all year long. -[5004.76 --> 5005.80] Let me pray for you. -[5009.54 --> 5016.00] Lord Jesus, speak the truth of our -[5016.00 --> 5019.46] identity in you and from you over -[5019.46 --> 5022.18] each of us this morning. -[5024.66 --> 5027.80] Give us new eyes to see and to be -[5027.80 --> 5031.52] encouraged and to go in your power. -[5033.44 --> 5036.00] And God, for those of us here this -[5036.00 --> 5038.00] morning or hearing this morning, -[5038.84 --> 5041.12] for whom this is new, or this is the -[5041.12 --> 5042.82] first time we're wondering about our -[5042.82 --> 5045.94] identity in Jesus, I pray, Holy Spirit, -[5046.12 --> 5048.06] break down walls of hostility. -[5048.22 --> 5050.36] I pray, Holy Spirit, transform hearts -[5050.36 --> 5051.90] of stone into hearts of flesh. -[5052.22 --> 5053.64] I pray, Holy Spirit, that our hearts -[5053.64 --> 5056.64] might beat and course in love for you. -[5059.64 --> 5063.24] Transform each and every one of us -[5063.24 --> 5065.50] into the image of your Son. -[5065.50 --> 5069.40] That we might know ourselves as adopted -[5069.40 --> 5072.08] and redeemed, as part of your plan, -[5072.82 --> 5075.54] as true worshipers, and as filled -[5075.54 --> 5077.68] with your power. -[5078.86 --> 5082.22] Come what may, this truth remains. -[5082.84 --> 5089.00] We are yours and you are mine. -[5089.00 --> 5091.84] Jesus Christ, we pray. -[5092.54 --> 5092.88] Amen. -[5104.88 --> 5106.16] Please stand with us. -[5106.16 --> 5126.74] Who am I that the highest -[5126.74 --> 5127.74] God, that the highest -[5127.74 --> 5128.74] He is. -[5128.74 --> 5129.74] He is. -[5129.74 --> 5130.74] He is. -[5130.74 --> 5131.74] He is. -[5131.74 --> 5132.74] He is. -[5132.74 --> 5135.88] I was lost, but He brought me in. -[5135.88 --> 5138.74] Oh, His love for me. -[5138.74 --> 5143.74] Oh, His love for me. -[5143.74 --> 5148.14] The sun sets free. -[5148.14 --> 5151.98] Oh, His free indeed. -[5151.98 --> 5156.98] I'm a child of God. -[5156.98 --> 5160.58] Yes, I am. -[5162.48 --> 5166.42] Free at last, He has ransomed me. -[5166.74 --> 5169.98] His grace runs deep. -[5171.76 --> 5174.94] While I was a slave to sin, -[5175.08 --> 5178.44] Jesus died for me. -[5178.44 --> 5183.44] Yes, He died for me. -[5183.44 --> 5187.44] Who the sun sets free. -[5187.44 --> 5191.44] Oh, His free indeed. -[5191.44 --> 5196.34] I'm a child of God. -[5196.34 --> 5200.32] Yes, I am. -[5200.32 --> 5205.22] In my Father's house, -[5205.22 --> 5209.22] There's a place for me. -[5209.22 --> 5213.22] I'm a child of God. -[5214.22 --> 5217.22] Yes, I am. -[5218.22 --> 5222.22] I am chosen, not forsaken. -[5223.22 --> 5226.22] I am who you say I am. -[5226.22 --> 5227.22] I am who you say I am. -[5227.22 --> 5229.22] I am who you say I am. -[5229.22 --> 5231.22] You are for me, not against me. -[5231.22 --> 5235.22] I am who you say I am. -[5235.22 --> 5239.22] I am chosen, not forsaken. -[5239.22 --> 5243.22] I am who you say I am. -[5243.22 --> 5244.22] I am who you say I am. -[5244.22 --> 5248.22] I am who you say I am. -[5248.22 --> 5253.22] I am who you say I am. -[5253.22 --> 5256.22] I am who you say I am. -[5256.22 --> 5261.22] Who the sun sets free. -[5261.22 --> 5265.22] Oh, His free indeed. -[5265.22 --> 5270.22] I'm a child of God. -[5270.22 --> 5275.22] Yes, I am. -[5275.22 --> 5280.22] In my Father's house, -[5280.22 --> 5285.22] There's a place for me. -[5285.22 --> 5290.22] I'm a child of God. -[5290.22 --> 5294.78] Yes, I am. -[5302.58 --> 5307.58] And so go, as children of God, -[5308.28 --> 5313.50] into his world to fulfill his plan and purposes in his power. -[5313.94 --> 5316.40] Receive God's blessing. -[5316.40 --> 5320.32] May God go before you to lead you. -[5321.08 --> 5323.42] May God go behind you to guard you. -[5323.82 --> 5326.40] May God go beneath you to support you. -[5326.72 --> 5329.46] May God go beside you to befriend you. -[5329.80 --> 5332.26] Do not be afraid. -[5333.04 --> 5335.06] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5335.18 --> 5336.90] Do not be afraid. -[5337.48 --> 5342.50] Go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5343.90 --> 5344.58] Amen. -[5346.40 --> 5351.56] In Psalm 103, we read, -[5352.56 --> 5354.44] From everlasting to everlasting, -[5354.92 --> 5357.64] the Lord's love is with those who fear him. -[5358.50 --> 5363.64] We can't find a greater hope or encouragement in this new year ahead -[5363.64 --> 5369.04] than knowing that our eternal, immortal, invisible God -[5369.04 --> 5371.16] will always be with us. -[5371.56 --> 5372.14] Let's sing. -[5372.14 --> 5383.08] From everlasting to everlasting, -[5383.08 --> 5389.30] You are God. -[5389.30 --> 5397.90] From everlasting to everlasting, -[5397.90 --> 5404.12] You are God. -[5404.12 --> 5405.12] You are God. -[5405.12 --> 5406.12] You are God. -[5406.12 --> 5413.50] In holiness, you stand secure through culture-shifting sands. -[5414.22 --> 5420.72] Unchanged by all the vanities of man. -[5420.72 --> 5428.76] And as the nations rise and fall, your sovereignty remains. -[5428.76 --> 5441.80] You are, you are, you are, you are, you are the one true God. -[5441.80 --> 5442.80] You are God. -[5442.80 --> 5443.80] You are God. -[5443.80 --> 5444.80] From everlasting to everlasting, you are God. -[5444.80 --> 5448.80] From everlasting to everlasting, you are God. -[5448.80 --> 5449.80] You are God. -[5449.80 --> 5455.80] From everlasting to everlasting, you are God. -[5455.80 --> 5458.80] God. -[5458.80 --> 5462.80] From everlasting to everlasting, you are God. -[5462.80 --> 5469.24] From everlasting to everlasting, you are God. -[5469.24 --> 5473.80] You are God. -[5473.80 --> 5487.30] Faithfulness your love extends through times of turbulence, adopting those who call upon your name. -[5487.30 --> 5510.74] And every generation joins in songs of grateful praise. You are, you are, you are the one true God. -[5510.74 --> 5523.10] From everlasting to everlasting, you are God. -[5523.10 --> 5538.10] From everlasting to everlasting, you are God. -[5538.10 --> 5553.10] Eternal, immortal, invisible God. -[5553.10 --> 5568.10] Eternal, immortal, invisible God. -[5568.10 --> 5571.10] owiadift, immortal, invisible God. -[5571.10 --> 5572.10] Eternal, immortal, invisible God. -[5572.10 --> 5573.10] Eternal, immortal, invisible God. -[5573.10 --> 5575.10] Eternal, immortal, invisible God. -[5575.10 --> 5577.10] stallion, immortal, immortal, immortal God. -[5577.10 --> 5587.10] Eternal, immortal, immortal God. -[5587.10 --> 5589.10] Eternal, immortal God. -[5589.10 --> 5591.74] To everlasting -[5591.74 --> 5598.10] You are gone -[5598.10 --> 5606.10] You are gone -[5619.10 --> 5649.08] You are gone -[5649.10 --> 5679.08] You are gone -[5679.10 --> 5709.08] You are gone -[5709.10 --> 5739.08] You are gone -[5739.08 --> 5741.08] You are gone -[5741.08 --> 5745.08] You are gone -[5745.08 --> 5749.08] You are gone -[5749.08 --> 5751.08] You are gone -[5751.08 --> 5753.08] You are gone -[5753.08 --> 5757.08] You are gone -[5757.08 --> 5759.08] You are gone -[5759.08 --> 5761.08] You are gone -[5761.08 --> 5771.08] You are gone -[5771.08 --> 5773.08] You are gone -[5773.08 --> 5783.08] You are gone -[5783.08 --> 5785.08] You are gone -[5785.08 --> 5787.08] You are gone -[5787.08 --> 5797.08] You are gone -[5797.08 --> 5799.08] You are gone -[5799.08 --> 5801.08] You are gone -[5801.08 --> 5803.08] You are gone -[5803.08 --> 5817.02] You are gone -[5817.08 --> 5819.08] You are gone -[5819.08 --> 5825.08] You are gone diff --git a/Sunday Worship - January 22, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - January 22, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index e2bd9165200b0429bf5d2f741b0ae5769e8e2098..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - January 22, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,114 +0,0 @@ -• Death has lost its grip -• Chains have been broken -• Jesus is the living hope -• God's grace is greater than all sin -• Past mistakes and regrets are erased -• The empty grave is a reminder of victory -• The speaker sees and experiences God's grace -• Discussion of Easter resurrection -• Announcements for church activities: - • Youth meeting in 2020 - • Mexico mission trip meeting - • Bible study restart for young adults - • Council meeting on Tuesday - • Regional cadet Sunday next week -• Call for volunteers to help provide lunch for cadets (soup and buns) -• Worship service schedule and announcements -• Call to worship from Psalm 145 -• Song lyrics, specifically "Lord, I Lift Your Name on High" and "I Raise a Hallelujah" -• Praise and worship themes of hope, victory, and the power of God's presence -• The speaker is singing a song with lyrics about overcoming fear and adversity through music -• The theme of the song is restoration of joy in salvation and coming back to God -• The song's message is about being honest with oneself and with God about whether one has grown cold in their faith -• Jesus Christ is the author and perfecter of our faith, who endured the cross for the joy set before him -• The lyrics of a new song are introduced, which talks about restoring joy in salvation and coming back to where it all began -• The song's message is about wanting God's presence and being willing to offer one's life as an altar to Him -• The speaker asks for forgiveness for going cold in their faith and needs God's help to wake up their soul and ignite passion. -• A prayer or worship song is sung, with repetition of phrases about God's greatness and breath in our lungs -• A person expresses sorrow and asks for forgiveness from God -• Jesus is called out as a savior who can forgive sin and offer new life -• The precious blood of Jesus Christ is mentioned as the means by which forgiveness is made available -• An usher makes an announcement about a fire drill, but it will not happen, and discusses what would happen if it did -• Unannounced drill to be held at some point in the future -• Special offering for Refrain Ministries, which creates biblical content in 10 languages -• Song "How Great Is Our God" sung multiple times during the service -• Invitation of kids to participate in Kids Corner -• Challenge given to kids to respond with a loud "good morning" when called upon -• Waiting for payday -• Report cards -• Summer holidays and school -• Video games -• Stanley Cup (waiting for the Canucks to win) -• Vacations -• TV shows -• Waiting in general, specifically referencing the Bible story of Jesus' birth and return -• Worship prayer led by an unknown speaker -• Prayer requests: - + Healing for Benita Smith during her upcoming biopsy - + Continued healing for others in the congregation who are recovering from ailments or injuries - + Guidance and reunion for members of the congregation who have distanced themselves from God and the church -• Update on church activities: - + Upcoming meetings of the full council, elders, and deacons - + Cadet program at Emanuel Church starting next week - + Search for a communications administrator -• Sermon series on Romans 1 continues with a focus on verses 18-32 -• Paul describes the depravity of humanity, including shameful acts, greed, envy, murder, and godlessness -• The passage bookends with darkness and wrath, emphasizing God's righteous decree against sinners -• Paul is not just addressing Gentiles or Jews, but all people, highlighting humanity's collective sinfulness -• The main purpose of the passage is to show how dark humanity has gotten in order for the gospel truth to shine brightly -• Paul uses examples from the Heidelberg Catechism and a song by Passenger to illustrate that understanding darkness and depravity helps appreciate the magnitude of God's grace -• The text emphasizes the importance of knowing one's sinfulness to truly understand the Savior and God's deliverance -• The consequences of replacing God with idols and pursuing other things -• General revelation: God revealing himself through creation and our consciences to all people -• Suppressing truth by wickedness: ignoring the evidence of God's existence and creation -• Living in denial of a Creator God leads to godlessness and wickedness -• The effects of suppressing truth: futile thinking, darkened hearts, and worship of false idols -• The tendency to worship false idols when God is ignored or not worshipped -• The consequences of ignoring God and truth, including falling into godlessness and wickedness -• The human tendency to take good things and elevate them to ultimate status -• The biblical account of humanity's foolish hearts being darkened due to rejecting the Creator -• The impact of embracing godlessness on vertical and horizontal relationships, including morality -• The source of moral absolutes: either a personal or majority perspective, but not a true foundation for absolute right and wrong. -• The concept of a driver cutting in front of many other cars and the reaction of those who were cut off -• The author's question about how people knew they were wronged when someone cut them off -• A discussion on the concept of moral compass and its relationship to evolution -• A quote from Greg Banson about atheists continuing to breathe despite arguing no air exists, illustrating their contradiction in actions -• The idea that humanity invents its own morality or redefines God's morality when we stop worshiping the creator -• The concept of "epithumia" (over desires) and how God allows us to pursue our over desires when we abandon His righteousness -• The sinful desires of human hearts lead to sexual impurity -• The culture is over-sexualized, with a focus on physical beauty and lust -• Social media contributes to the obsession with appearance and sex appeal -• The Bible addresses homosexuality in Romans 1:26-27, which is considered one of the most controversial passages -• God gives individuals over to shameful lusts as a result of their rejection of Him. -• The speaker discusses the interpretation of two Bible verses related to sexual activity -• Different interpretations exist regarding what these verses are saying (e.g. promiscuity vs true self) -• The speaker argues that the language used by Paul and the context do not support these claims -• Sex is described as unnatural when it goes against God's intended design for one man and one woman in marriage -• The church has engaged with discussions on this topic, including books and events -• Reshaping the narrative on homosexuality -• Addressing three myths and three truths about being gay and loving God -• Critique of the idea that being gay is a sin if you don't become straight -• Discussion of marriage and sex as not the only path to joy and freedom -• Rebuke of the idea that some sins are worse than others -• Explanation of how all sins, including those listed in verses 28-31, are on an equal plane and considered wicked in God's eyes -• Critique of misunderstanding verses 26 and 27 of the text -• The speaker distinguishes between a "progressive approach" and a "conservative approach" to scripture on homosexuality. -• Paul's text does not fit into either of these approaches, but instead emphasizes the sinfulness of homosexual acts while also acknowledging that many other sins are just as severe. -• The speaker argues that people often prioritize certain sins over others, and that this is not in line with Paul's message. -• The text teaches that humanity is characterized by total depravity, meaning that all human actions are touched by sin to some extent. -• The concept of sin as rebellion against God and truth -• The inability of humanity to escape or overcome sin on its own -• Jesus Christ's role in taking on human sin and wickedness, dying for it, and rising from the dead -• Salvation being available through faith in Christ, not through human effort or deserving -• Acknowledging one's own sinful nature and need for salvation through Christ -• The gospel of Jesus Christ is revealed through God's actions -• Humanity needs to understand the "dark side" to appreciate the gospel truth -• The gospel truth shines when we see our own darkness and need for salvation -• Only Jesus has the power to save from sin and wickedness -• Salvation comes through faith in Jesus, not human achievement -• Prayers are offered to God to reveal the light of His gospel and draw people to Himself. -• Prayer for salvation through Jesus Christ -• Mission to spread the message of Jesus Christ to all parts of the world -• Prayer for protection and guidance from God -• Encouragement to go out into the world with hope and faith in Jesus Christ -• References to Jesus as Lord and Savior of all people and nations \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - January 22, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - January 22, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 15210bee0a5c0a4a0ee9ae5290c4fcb4668dec00..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - January 22, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1897 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 9.34] That sealed the promise, your buried body began to breathe. -[10.54 --> 22.62] Out of the silence, the roaring lion declared the grave has no claim on me. -[22.62 --> 36.26] Then came the morning that sealed the promise, your buried body began to breathe. -[37.12 --> 49.40] Out of the silence, the roaring lion declared the grave has no claim on me. -[49.40 --> 55.40] Jesus, yours is the victory. -[58.16 --> 63.40] Oh, hallelujah. -[64.36 --> 67.34] Praise the one who set me free. -[67.72 --> 68.68] Hallelujah. -[71.08 --> 73.40] Dead has lost its grip on me. -[73.40 --> 77.44] You have broken every chain. -[77.78 --> 80.76] This I may say in your name. -[81.04 --> 85.40] Jesus Christ, my living hope. -[87.78 --> 88.40] Hallelujah. -[91.04 --> 93.40] Praise the one who set me free. -[94.40 --> 95.40] Hallelujah. -[95.40 --> 96.40] Hallelujah. -[96.40 --> 97.40] Hallelujah. -[97.40 --> 100.66] Death has lost its grip on me. -[100.66 --> 104.16] You have broken every chain. -[104.16 --> 107.40] This I may say in your name. -[107.40 --> 112.40] Jesus Christ, my living hope. -[113.78 --> 119.16] Jesus Christ, my living hope. -[119.16 --> 125.16] Oh, God, you are my living hope. -[125.16 --> 126.24] Oh, God, you are my living hope. -[126.24 --> 126.40] Oh, God, you are my living hope. -[126.40 --> 148.96] Oh, God, you are my living hope. -[148.96 --> 152.82] The kind that comes from mistakes -[152.82 --> 155.78] The kind that won't go away -[155.78 --> 157.56] When I turned around -[157.56 --> 160.46] They were right there to remind me -[160.46 --> 162.20] I've seen regret -[162.20 --> 165.96] The kind that messes with your hair -[165.96 --> 169.16] The failures and the can't forgets -[169.16 --> 170.78] But standing here now -[170.78 --> 173.66] I'm thinking God it's behind me -[173.66 --> 176.66] Cause I've seen nails scarred hands -[176.66 --> 179.78] Reach out and wipe it all away -[179.78 --> 182.58] Now I see grace -[182.58 --> 185.80] Hallelujah, I stand amazed -[185.80 --> 189.12] I'm staring at an empty grave -[189.12 --> 193.04] And the stone that you rolled away -[193.04 --> 197.14] When I was a prodigal, you saw a son -[197.14 --> 200.52] When I left the 99, you saw the one -[200.52 --> 202.20] And just like that -[202.20 --> 205.48] All my past has been erased -[205.48 --> 207.22] When I look back -[207.22 --> 209.08] I see grace -[209.08 --> 212.30] I still hurt -[212.30 --> 215.60] Fall short of what you say I'm worth -[215.60 --> 218.62] And that devil says I don't deserve -[218.62 --> 220.34] What you did on the cross -[220.34 --> 221.12] And he's right -[221.12 --> 221.88] Cause I don't -[221.88 --> 223.94] But you did it anyway -[223.94 --> 225.52] I see grace -[225.52 --> 228.48] Hallelujah, I stand amazed -[228.48 --> 232.08] I'm staring at an empty grave -[232.08 --> 235.30] And the stone that you rolled away -[235.30 --> 240.16] When I was a prodigal, you saw a son -[240.16 --> 243.54] When I left the 99, you saw the one -[243.54 --> 245.22] And just like that -[245.22 --> 248.50] All my past has been erased -[248.50 --> 250.26] When I look back -[250.26 --> 251.86] I see grace -[251.86 --> 253.86] I see grace -[253.86 --> 257.82] God's grace -[257.82 --> 261.00] Grace that is greater than all my sin -[261.00 --> 264.22] Faith God Almighty gonna sing it again -[264.22 --> 265.86] Oh, grace -[265.86 --> 267.60] Grace, grace -[267.60 --> 269.46] God's grace -[269.46 --> 273.60] Grace that is greater than all my sin -[273.60 --> 275.60] I see grace -[275.60 --> 277.60] Hallelujah, I stand amazed -[277.60 --> 280.68] I'm staring at an empty grave -[280.68 --> 283.68] Hallelujah, I stand amazed -[283.68 --> 286.68] I'm staring at an empty grave -[286.68 --> 290.34] And the stone that you rolled away -[290.34 --> 294.86] I was a prodigal, you saw a son -[294.86 --> 298.14] When I left the 99, you saw the one -[298.14 --> 299.86] And just like that -[299.86 --> 303.10] All my past has been erased -[303.10 --> 304.90] When I look back -[304.90 --> 307.28] I see grace -[307.28 --> 310.88] Grace -[310.88 --> 312.88] I see grace -[312.88 --> 314.88] I see grace -[314.88 --> 315.88] I see grace -[315.88 --> 317.88] Grace -[317.88 --> 320.88] Grace -[320.88 --> 322.88] Oh, grace -[322.88 --> 324.88] Grace -[324.88 --> 331.88] Grace that is greater than all my sin -[331.88 --> 333.88] Grace -[337.28 --> 338.88] Grace -[338.88 --> 354.88] There's a peace I've come to know -[354.88 --> 361.28] Though my heart and flesh may fail -[361.28 --> 366.88] There's an anchor for my soul -[366.88 --> 368.88] I can say -[368.88 --> 372.88] It is well -[372.88 --> 377.88] Jesus has overcome -[377.88 --> 383.88] And the grave is overwhelmed -[383.88 --> 389.48] The victory is won -[389.48 --> 395.48] He is risen from the dead -[395.48 --> 399.48] And I will rise -[399.48 --> 403.48] When He calls my name -[403.48 --> 405.48] No more sorrow -[405.48 --> 407.48] No more pain -[407.48 --> 410.08] I will rise -[410.08 --> 411.08] On eagle's wings -[411.08 --> 413.08] Before my God -[413.08 --> 415.08] Fall on my knees -[415.08 --> 417.08] And rise -[417.08 --> 419.08] I will rise -[419.08 --> 421.08] I will rise -[421.08 --> 424.68] And rise -[424.68 --> 426.68] I will rise -[426.68 --> 428.68] I will rise -[428.68 --> 430.68] I will rise -[430.68 --> 432.68] I will rise -[432.68 --> 436.68] There's a day that's drawing near -[436.68 --> 440.28] When this darkness -[440.28 --> 441.28] When this darkness breaks -[441.28 --> 443.28] To light -[443.28 --> 448.28] And the shadows disappear -[448.28 --> 455.28] And my faith shall be my eyes -[455.28 --> 457.88] Jesus has overcome -[457.88 --> 459.88] Jesus has overcome -[459.88 --> 465.88] And the grave is overwhelmed -[465.88 --> 471.88] The victory is won -[471.88 --> 476.88] He is risen from the dead -[476.88 --> 478.48] And I will rise -[478.48 --> 480.48] And I will rise -[480.48 --> 482.48] When He calls my name -[482.48 --> 484.48] When He calls my name -[484.48 --> 486.48] No more sorrow -[486.48 --> 488.48] No more pain -[488.48 --> 490.48] I will rise -[490.48 --> 492.48] On eagle's wings -[492.48 --> 494.48] Before my God -[494.48 --> 496.48] Fall on my knees -[496.48 --> 498.48] Before my God -[498.48 --> 500.48] Fall on my knees -[500.48 --> 502.48] Before my God -[502.48 --> 503.48] Fall on my knees -[503.48 --> 504.48] And rise -[504.48 --> 508.48] I will rise -[508.48 --> 510.48] I will rise -[512.48 --> 514.48] Good morning -[514.48 --> 517.48] Welcome to church -[517.48 --> 521.48] We're so excited that you are here with us this weekend -[521.48 --> 523.48] To worship our good God -[523.48 --> 524.48] My name is Chris -[524.48 --> 526.48] I'm one of the pastors here -[526.48 --> 527.48] And myself -[527.48 --> 528.48] And Pastor Kevin -[528.48 --> 529.48] And a few others -[529.48 --> 533.48] Are going to lead in worship together this morning -[533.48 --> 535.48] As the few people are yet filing in -[535.48 --> 536.48] We have a couple announcements -[536.48 --> 539.48] That we want to put in front of you -[539.48 --> 541.48] Josh is going to make one -[541.48 --> 543.48] So I'm going to invite him to be up and ready to go -[544.48 --> 547.48] The first announcement this evening -[547.48 --> 549.48] For youth is 2020 -[549.48 --> 552.48] And so if you are interested in coming to that -[552.48 --> 553.48] Or if you are a youth -[553.48 --> 555.48] And you are unsure what that's about -[555.48 --> 556.48] Talk to Pastor Kevin -[556.48 --> 558.48] He will give you all the answers for that -[558.48 --> 559.48] Also -[559.48 --> 561.48] After church today -[561.48 --> 563.48] And I believe the meeting time was moved to noon -[563.48 --> 564.48] Brandon -[564.48 --> 567.48] Can you confirm Mexico mission meeting at noon after church? -[567.48 --> 571.48] And so that's going to happen here in the multipurpose room -[571.48 --> 572.48] Sounds good -[572.48 --> 575.48] I'm clearly very informed as to what's going on around here -[575.48 --> 580.48] So if you are going on our Mexico mission trip in March -[580.48 --> 584.48] There's a meeting taking place in the multipurpose room after service today -[586.48 --> 588.48] Josh why don't you come and do yours now? -[588.48 --> 593.48] So for the young adults we have our Bible study -[593.48 --> 596.48] We want to get that restarted up again in the new year -[596.48 --> 598.48] So we just want to have a meeting ten minutes after church -[598.48 --> 601.48] To figure out when that best works for all the young adults -[601.48 --> 603.48] Yeah -[603.48 --> 606.48] Josh ladies and gentlemen -[606.48 --> 608.48] Room 114 -[608.48 --> 609.48] Room 114 -[609.48 --> 610.48] All right -[610.48 --> 611.48] Anything else? -[611.48 --> 612.48] No -[612.48 --> 613.48] Okay -[613.48 --> 619.48] On Tuesday is a council meeting -[619.48 --> 622.48] And so members of council are gathering together -[622.48 --> 624.48] I encourage you to keep that in your prayers -[624.48 --> 627.48] As we meet and discern the Lord's will for our church -[627.48 --> 630.48] And then finally next week Sunday -[630.48 --> 634.48] We are hosting regional cadet Sunday -[634.48 --> 639.48] And so that's cadet Sunday for the whole Fraser Valley Cadet Corps -[639.48 --> 643.48] If you don't know cadets is a ministry to young boys -[643.48 --> 648.48] Where they get together and they do crafts and projects and Bible studies -[648.48 --> 651.48] We are hosting their cadet Sunday -[651.48 --> 653.48] And the regional gathering next week -[653.48 --> 658.48] And so there's going to be 50 to 70 boys and counselors -[658.48 --> 660.48] As part of our worship next week -[660.48 --> 661.48] We are really excited to have them -[661.48 --> 663.48] To facilitate that -[663.48 --> 667.48] We are going to help provide lunch for them -[667.48 --> 670.48] And so we are looking for soup and buns -[670.48 --> 673.48] And I know some of you are excellent at making soup -[673.48 --> 676.48] And others of you are excellent at buying buns -[677.48 --> 680.48] And so there is a sign up sheet at the back -[680.48 --> 681.48] At the connect table -[681.48 --> 683.48] Andrew is going to be there -[683.48 --> 685.48] Andrew is our head counselor here -[685.48 --> 686.48] And he will get you signed up -[686.48 --> 688.48] So if you are able to help in that way -[688.48 --> 690.48] By making soup and providing buns -[690.48 --> 693.48] That would be a huge blessing to all the cadets -[693.48 --> 696.48] Who will come to our worship next week Sunday -[697.48 --> 698.48] I think that's it for announcements -[698.48 --> 699.48] And so I'm going to invite you -[699.48 --> 701.48] As you are able to stand -[701.48 --> 705.48] And we can be gathered up into God's presence together -[705.48 --> 712.48] We gather in the presence of God -[712.48 --> 715.48] And he welcomes us and greets us with his blessing -[715.48 --> 720.48] Grace, mercy, and peace to you -[720.48 --> 723.48] From God our Father, the Lord Jesus Christ -[723.48 --> 725.48] His Son and our Savior -[726.48 --> 729.48] Through the power and presence of the Holy Spirit -[729.48 --> 731.48] All God's people said -[731.48 --> 732.48] Amen -[735.48 --> 736.48] Let's also greet one another -[736.48 --> 739.48] Sir -[743.48 --> 744.48] Morning Adrian -[766.48 --> 769.48] Good morning -[770.48 --> 774.48] Our call to worship today comes from Psalm 145 -[775.48 --> 777.48] I will exalt you, my God and King -[777.48 --> 780.48] I will bless your name forever and ever -[780.48 --> 784.48] Every day I will bless you and praise your name forever and ever -[784.48 --> 787.48] Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised -[787.48 --> 789.48] And his greatness is unsearchable -[789.48 --> 814.48] Lord, I lift your name on high -[814.48 --> 816.48] Lord, I'd love to sing the Lord -[816.48 --> 820.48] Lord, I'd love to sing your praises -[822.48 --> 825.48] I'm so glad you're in my life -[825.48 --> 831.48] I'm so glad you came to save us -[832.48 --> 835.48] You came from heaven to earth -[835.48 --> 837.48] To show the way -[837.48 --> 840.48] From the earth to the cross -[840.48 --> 842.48] My death to pay -[842.48 --> 845.48] From the cross to the grave -[845.48 --> 846.48] From the grave -[846.48 --> 847.48] From the grave to the sky -[847.48 --> 848.48] From the grave to the sky -[848.48 --> 849.48] From the grave to the sky -[849.48 --> 852.48] Lord, I lift your name on high -[852.48 --> 858.48] Lord, I lift your name on high -[858.48 --> 862.48] Lord, I'd love to sing your praises -[862.48 --> 865.48] I'm so glad you're in my life -[865.48 --> 868.48] I'm so glad you're in my life -[868.48 --> 871.48] I'm so glad you came to save us -[871.48 --> 872.48] You came from heaven to earth -[872.48 --> 873.48] You came from heaven to earth -[873.48 --> 876.48] You came from heaven to earth -[876.48 --> 878.48] To show the way -[878.48 --> 881.48] From the earth to the cross -[881.48 --> 882.48] My death to pay -[882.48 --> 884.48] From the cross to the grave -[884.48 --> 886.48] From the grave to the sky -[886.48 --> 887.48] From the grave to the sky -[887.48 --> 889.48] From the grave to the sky -[890.48 --> 891.48] Lord, I lift your name on high -[891.48 --> 892.48] From the cross to the grave -[892.48 --> 893.48] From the grave to the sky -[893.48 --> 898.14] You came from heaven to earth -[898.14 --> 900.72] To show the way -[900.72 --> 903.42] From the earth to the cross -[903.42 --> 906.02] My death to day -[906.02 --> 908.68] From the cross to the grave -[908.68 --> 911.32] From the grave to the sky -[911.32 --> 916.02] Lord, I lift your name on high -[916.02 --> 920.68] Lord, I lift your name on high -[923.48 --> 953.46] Lord, I lift your name on high -[953.46 --> 955.16] I raise a hallelujah -[955.16 --> 961.78] In the presence of my enemies -[961.78 --> 967.00] I raise a hallelujah -[967.00 --> 973.46] Louder than the unbelief -[973.46 --> 978.78] I raise a hallelujah -[978.78 --> 984.48] My weapon is a melody -[984.48 --> 990.34] I raise a hallelujah -[990.34 --> 997.34] Heaven comes to fight for me -[997.34 --> 1004.46] I'm gonna sing in the middle of the storm -[1004.46 --> 1007.30] Louder and louder -[1007.30 --> 1009.66] You're gonna hear my praises roar -[1009.66 --> 1012.98] Up from the ashes -[1012.98 --> 1015.98] Hope will arise -[1015.98 --> 1018.48] Death is defeated -[1018.48 --> 1021.98] The King is alive -[1021.98 --> 1032.30] I raise a hallelujah -[1032.30 --> 1032.76] I raise a hallelujah -[1032.76 --> 1039.02] With everything inside of me -[1039.02 --> 1043.90] I raise a hallelujah -[1043.90 --> 1050.22] I will watch the darkness flee -[1050.22 --> 1055.00] I raise a hallelujah -[1055.00 --> 1057.44] I raise a hallelujah -[1057.44 --> 1058.44] In the middle of the mystery -[1058.44 --> 1060.44] In the middle of the mystery -[1060.44 --> 1064.44] I raise a hallelujah -[1064.44 --> 1066.44] I raise a hallelujah -[1066.44 --> 1068.44] I raise a hallelujah -[1068.44 --> 1072.76] Fear you've lost your hold on me -[1072.76 --> 1076.70] I'm gonna sing -[1076.70 --> 1079.56] In the middle of the storm -[1079.56 --> 1082.10] Louder and louder -[1082.10 --> 1085.04] You're gonna hear my praises roar -[1085.04 --> 1087.04] From the ashes -[1087.04 --> 1090.04] Hope will arise -[1090.04 --> 1092.04] Death is defeated -[1092.04 --> 1096.04] The King is alive -[1096.04 --> 1101.04] Sing a little louder -[1101.04 --> 1103.66] Sing a little louder -[1103.66 --> 1106.22] Sing a little louder -[1106.22 --> 1108.98] Sing a little louder -[1108.98 --> 1111.58] Sing a little louder -[1111.58 --> 1118.58] Sing a little louder -[1118.58 --> 1120.58] Sing a little louder -[1120.58 --> 1122.58] Sing a little louder -[1122.58 --> 1125.58] In the presence of my enemies -[1125.58 --> 1127.58] Sing a little louder -[1127.58 --> 1130.58] Louder than the unbelief -[1130.58 --> 1132.58] Sing a little louder -[1132.58 --> 1135.58] My weapon is a melody -[1135.58 --> 1138.58] Sing a little louder -[1138.58 --> 1139.58] Heaven comes to fight for me -[1139.58 --> 1140.58] Sing a little louder -[1140.58 --> 1141.58] Heaven comes to fight for me -[1141.58 --> 1143.58] Sing a little louder -[1143.58 --> 1145.58] Sing a little louder -[1145.58 --> 1146.58] I'm gonna sing -[1146.58 --> 1147.58] In the middle of the storm -[1147.58 --> 1148.58] Louder and louder -[1148.58 --> 1149.58] You're gonna hear my praises -[1149.58 --> 1150.58] Sing a little louder -[1150.58 --> 1151.58] I'm gonna sing -[1151.58 --> 1152.58] In the middle of the storm -[1152.58 --> 1153.58] Louder and louder -[1153.58 --> 1154.58] You're gonna hear my praises roar -[1154.58 --> 1155.58] Up from the ashes -[1155.58 --> 1156.58] Hope will arise -[1156.58 --> 1162.58] Death is defeated -[1162.58 --> 1163.58] The King is defeated -[1163.58 --> 1164.58] The King is alive -[1164.58 --> 1165.58] Heaven comes to fight for me -[1165.58 --> 1166.58] Sing a little louder -[1166.58 --> 1174.48] I'm gonna sing in the middle of the storm, louder and louder. -[1174.94 --> 1179.98] You're gonna hear my praises roar up from the ashes. -[1180.84 --> 1188.26] Hope will arise, death is defeated, the king is alive. -[1188.26 --> 1198.70] I'm gonna sing in the middle of the storm, louder and louder. -[1199.10 --> 1204.08] You're gonna hear my praises roar up from the ashes. -[1204.98 --> 1212.26] Hope will arise, death is defeated, the king is alive. -[1212.26 --> 1217.98] Ere zijn halleluja. -[1219.54 --> 1223.70] Ere zijn halleluja. -[1225.36 --> 1229.50] Ere zijn halleluja. -[1230.84 --> 1235.56] Ere zijn halleluja. -[1235.56 --> 1250.60] This next song is new to our church, though we have worshipped with it in our youth. -[1250.86 --> 1252.72] The first few lyrics read, -[1253.58 --> 1255.72] Restore to me the joy of my salvation. -[1256.50 --> 1258.56] This is the overarching theme of this song. -[1259.02 --> 1265.32] A believing heart that has grown cold and desires to be back in a place where God is the center of his affections. -[1266.02 --> 1268.16] As the psalmist in Psalm 13 says, -[1268.80 --> 1273.46] But I trust in your unfailing love. My heart rejoices in your salvation. -[1274.26 --> 1279.18] As you listen to this song being sung over you, or as you join in, ask yourself, -[1279.78 --> 1283.76] How do I experience salvation? Has my heart grown cold? -[1284.20 --> 1287.90] Be honest with yourself and with God when you answer this question, -[1288.04 --> 1291.94] knowing that Jesus is the author and perfecter of our faith, -[1291.94 --> 1295.42] who for the joy set before him endured the cross, -[1295.90 --> 1300.18] scorning and shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. -[1300.18 --> 1322.44] Restore to me the joy of my salvation. -[1322.44 --> 1331.52] Take me back to where it all began, -[1331.52 --> 1341.50] Where all I ever wanted was your presence, -[1341.50 --> 1350.84] How I longed to be there once again, -[1350.84 --> 1360.08] I defy, but the world can't burn out and flame, -[1360.08 --> 1364.92] Till nothing between us remains, -[1364.92 --> 1369.30] My life is an altar too. -[1369.30 --> 1379.04] Breathe again on the embers that burn in my heart, -[1379.04 --> 1383.60] Come, love, take you back to the start, -[1383.60 --> 1388.54] My life is an altar to you. -[1388.54 --> 1398.98] Renewed in me a pure and willing spirit, -[1398.98 --> 1407.16] Take me back to where it all began, -[1407.16 --> 1416.54] Before it all became so complicated, -[1416.54 --> 1423.54] How I longed to be there once again, -[1423.54 --> 1425.54] How I longed to be there once again, -[1425.54 --> 1429.54] Light a fire, -[1429.54 --> 1433.54] Let the world can't burn out and flame, -[1433.54 --> 1437.54] Till nothing between us remains, -[1437.54 --> 1444.54] My life is an altar to you. -[1444.54 --> 1452.54] Breathe again on the embers that burn in my heart, -[1452.54 --> 1456.54] A love taken back to the start, -[1456.54 --> 1463.54] My life is an altar to you. -[1463.54 --> 1469.54] God, I'm sorry, -[1469.54 --> 1473.54] Please forgive me, -[1473.54 --> 1478.54] For when I've gone cold, -[1478.54 --> 1482.54] Lord, I need you, -[1482.54 --> 1487.54] How I need you, -[1487.54 --> 1494.54] To awake my soul and fire, -[1494.54 --> 1499.54] That the world can't burn out and flame, -[1499.54 --> 1503.54] Till nothing between us remains, -[1503.54 --> 1504.54] My life is an altar to you. -[1504.54 --> 1510.54] My life is an altar to you. -[1510.54 --> 1518.54] Breathe again on the embers that burn in my heart, -[1518.54 --> 1522.54] A love taken back to the start, -[1522.54 --> 1523.54] My life is an altar to you. -[1523.54 --> 1527.54] My life is an altar to you. -[1527.54 --> 1552.54] And all the earth will shout your praise, -[1552.54 --> 1554.54] Our hearts will cry, -[1554.54 --> 1556.54] These bones will sing, -[1556.54 --> 1565.54] Great are you, Lord. -[1565.54 --> 1569.54] When all the earth will shout your praise, -[1569.54 --> 1571.54] Our hearts will cry, -[1571.54 --> 1574.54] These bones will sing, -[1574.54 --> 1582.54] Great are you, Lord. -[1582.54 --> 1587.54] It's your breath in our lungs, -[1587.54 --> 1591.54] So we pour out our praise, -[1591.54 --> 1592.54] We pour out our praise, -[1592.54 --> 1596.54] It's your breath in our lungs, -[1596.54 --> 1600.54] So we pour out our praise to you only, -[1600.54 --> 1601.54] God I'm sorry, -[1601.54 --> 1602.54] I'm sorry, -[1602.54 --> 1603.54] It's your breath in our lungs, -[1603.54 --> 1605.54] It's your breath in our lungs, -[1605.54 --> 1607.54] So we pour out our praise, -[1607.54 --> 1609.54] We pour out our praise, -[1609.54 --> 1611.54] It's your breath in our lungs, -[1611.54 --> 1612.54] In our lungs, -[1612.54 --> 1620.54] So we pour out our praise to you only, -[1620.54 --> 1621.54] God I'm sorry, -[1621.54 --> 1623.54] Please forgive me, -[1623.54 --> 1629.54] For when I've gone cold, -[1629.54 --> 1630.54] Lord, I need you, -[1630.54 --> 1631.54] Lord, I need you, -[1631.54 --> 1632.54] How I need you, -[1632.54 --> 1634.54] How I need you, -[1634.54 --> 1639.54] To awake my soul, -[1639.54 --> 1644.54] To awake my soul, -[1644.54 --> 1654.54] To awake my soul, -[1674.54 --> 1691.54] Are you hurting, -[1691.54 --> 1693.54] And broken within? -[1693.54 --> 1699.54] Overwhelmed by the weight of your sin, -[1699.54 --> 1704.54] Jesus is calling, -[1704.54 --> 1709.54] Have you come to the end of yourself? -[1709.54 --> 1714.54] Do you thirst for a drink from the well? -[1714.54 --> 1718.54] Jesus is calling, -[1718.54 --> 1723.54] Oh come to the altar, -[1723.54 --> 1728.54] The Father's arms are open wide, -[1728.54 --> 1733.54] Forgiveness was bought with, -[1733.54 --> 1739.54] The precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[1739.54 --> 1753.54] Leave behind your regrets and mistakes, -[1753.54 --> 1757.54] Come today, there's no reason to wait, -[1757.54 --> 1758.54] Jesus is calling, -[1758.54 --> 1762.54] Jesus is calling, -[1762.54 --> 1767.54] Bring your sorrows and trade them for joy, -[1767.54 --> 1771.54] From the ashes a new life is born, -[1771.54 --> 1775.54] Jesus is calling, -[1775.54 --> 1780.54] Oh come to the altar, -[1780.54 --> 1783.54] Forgiveness was bought with, -[1783.54 --> 1787.54] Forgiveness was bought with, -[1787.54 --> 1795.54] The precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[1795.54 --> 1799.54] Oh come to the altar, -[1799.54 --> 1800.54] Father's Father's Father, -[1800.54 --> 1804.54] The Father's arms are open wide, -[1804.54 --> 1809.54] Forgiveness was bought with, -[1809.54 --> 1814.54] The precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[1814.54 --> 1818.54] Ilustraljai and the resolver остwin ye, -[1818.54 --> 1821.54] Son, on theasmine, -[1821.54 --> 1823.54] For this어� Mukurning... -[1823.54 --> 1828.02] The precious blood we bakht H -[1828.02 --> 1829.54] Savior -[1829.54 --> 1835.24] Isn't he wonderful -[1835.24 --> 1838.90] Sing hallelujah -[1838.90 --> 1842.80] Christ is risen -[1842.80 --> 1849.66] Bow down before him -[1849.66 --> 1854.70] For he is Lord of all -[1854.70 --> 1857.54] Sing hallelujah -[1857.54 --> 1861.30] Christ is risen -[1861.30 --> 1867.10] Oh what a Savior -[1867.10 --> 1872.76] Isn't he wonderful -[1872.76 --> 1876.22] Sing hallelujah -[1876.22 --> 1880.06] Christ is risen -[1880.06 --> 1887.06] Bow down before him -[1887.06 --> 1891.82] For he is Lord of all -[1891.82 --> 1894.70] Sing hallelujah -[1894.70 --> 1898.46] Christ is risen -[1898.46 --> 1907.22] Oh come to the altar -[1907.22 --> 1911.98] The Father's arms are open wide -[1911.98 --> 1916.78] Forgiveness was bought with -[1916.78 --> 1920.98] The precious blood of Jesus Christ -[1920.98 --> 1924.98] Oh come to the altar -[1924.98 --> 1929.74] The Father's arms are open wide -[1929.74 --> 1934.74] Forgiveness was bought with -[1934.74 --> 1939.74] The precious blood of Jesus Christ -[1939.74 --> 1950.50] The precious blood of Jesus Christ -[1950.50 --> 1954.50] There you cross as you wait for the crown -[1954.50 --> 1959.26] Tell the world of the treasure you found -[1959.26 --> 1961.26] Tell the world of the treasure you found -[1961.26 --> 1975.02] Please be seated -[1975.02 --> 1979.78] Please be seated -[1979.78 --> 1992.78] Good morning my name is Rob I'm an usher here and I have an announcement this morning about something that will not happen so since this announcement about something that's going to happen -[1992.78 --> 2010.54] So since it's an announcement about something that's not going to happen you don't need to pay attention you don't need to pay attention you can just think about something else instead -[2010.54 --> 2017.54] So this morning we are not having a fire drill -[2017.54 --> 2039.54] I'm a little concerned about the look on Rich's face he may have something different planned for us but we are not having a fire drill but what I'd like us to do is think about what would happen if we did have a fire drill what what would you do so we'd have the slide that would come up and then we would the pastor would make an announcement and then we would exit out the sides -[2039.54 --> 2062.54] through the sides here through the sanctuary avoiding going to the back we would exit out through the sides ushers would stand up and attend to the doors and children's worship maybe one of the kids could remind me what do the children's worship kids where do they go how do they exit the building yes -[2062.54 --> 2064.54] Vous suitcase the motion please -[2071.54 --> 2079.54] rumah close close we want to go towards the street we'll exit out towards the street because a library area is probably -[2079.54 --> 2089.54] where the situation would happen so we want to avoid that area so the children's worship kids would entry would exit out South towards the street -[2089.54 --> 2095.60] street which also reinforces the fact that as in here we don't want to be -[2095.60 --> 2101.84] going that way we want to be exiting out the sides so we will be having a an -[2101.84 --> 2105.14] unannounced drill at some time in the future so then we can put all of this -[2105.14 --> 2108.36] into practice thank you -[2108.36 --> 2124.62] good morning my name is Mike I'm a I'm a deacon here had a manual today's -[2124.62 --> 2130.14] special offering is for refrain ministries the meaning media ministry of -[2130.14 --> 2135.84] the CRC their vision is that the lives and worldviews of all people around the -[2135.84 --> 2140.70] globe will be transformed by God's gospel message this ministry creates -[2140.70 --> 2145.74] biblical content in 10 languages using radio television the internet and -[2145.74 --> 2151.26] smartphones to proclaim God's word around the world thank you -[2165.84 --> 2172.00] good -[2172.00 --> 2179.34] leader -[2179.34 --> 2186.10] the door -[2186.10 --> 2192.12] He wraps Himself in light -[2192.12 --> 2197.02] And darkness tries to hide -[2197.02 --> 2200.00] And trembles at His voice -[2200.00 --> 2203.52] And trembles at His voice -[2203.52 --> 2208.46] How great is our God -[2208.46 --> 2214.00] Sing with me how great is our God -[2214.00 --> 2217.58] And all will see how great -[2217.58 --> 2223.80] How great is our God -[2223.80 --> 2231.28] And aged away she stands -[2231.28 --> 2235.82] And time is in His hands -[2235.82 --> 2238.70] Beginning and the end -[2238.70 --> 2242.22] Beginning and the end -[2242.22 --> 2247.80] The Godhead three in one -[2247.80 --> 2252.02] Father, Spirit, Son -[2252.02 --> 2254.72] The Lion and Lamb -[2254.72 --> 2258.22] The Lion and Lamb -[2258.22 --> 2262.96] How great is our God -[2262.96 --> 2268.02] Sing with me how great is our God -[2268.02 --> 2271.76] And all will see how great -[2271.76 --> 2276.60] How great is our God -[2276.60 --> 2282.60] And all will see how great -[2282.60 --> 2286.60] How great is our God -[2286.60 --> 2290.34] Worthy of all praise -[2290.34 --> 2293.18] My heart will sing -[2293.18 --> 2298.10] How great is our God -[2298.10 --> 2305.60] And above all names -[2305.60 --> 2311.54] Worthy of all praise -[2311.54 --> 2320.12] My heart will sing, how great is our God. -[2321.78 --> 2326.84] How great is our God. -[2327.02 --> 2331.54] Sing with me, how great is our God. -[2331.54 --> 2341.52] And all will see how great, how great is our God. -[2341.54 --> 2358.96] All right, I'd like to invite all the kids up here for Kids Corner. -[2358.96 --> 2361.96] Can you guys back up a little bit so we can fit in there? -[2362.72 --> 2363.18] A little more. -[2363.36 --> 2363.76] A little more. -[2364.76 --> 2371.04] Okay. -[2371.54 --> 2372.54] Okay. -[2372.54 --> 2377.16] I want to, I got a little challenge for you guys before we get started here. -[2377.16 --> 2379.12] I wonder if you can help me with it. -[2379.12 --> 2383.22] On behalf of everybody behind you, I'm going to say good morning to you. -[2383.22 --> 2384.22] And then I want you to respond. -[2384.22 --> 2388.22] But I want you to be loud enough so that Olivia in the back corner can hear you. -[2388.22 --> 2390.94] She's sitting in the back corner, so we're going to find out if she can hear you. -[2390.94 --> 2392.72] Do you think you can hear you up for that challenge? -[2392.72 --> 2393.72] Yeah. -[2393.72 --> 2394.72] Okay. -[2394.72 --> 2395.72] Good morning. -[2395.72 --> 2396.72] Good morning. -[2396.72 --> 2397.72] Good morning. -[2397.72 --> 2398.72] Good morning. -[2398.72 --> 2399.72] Good morning. -[2399.72 --> 2400.72] How's that, Olivia? -[2400.72 --> 2401.72] Good morning. -[2401.72 --> 2402.72] Good morning. -[2402.72 --> 2403.72] All right. -[2403.72 --> 2404.72] All right. -[2404.72 --> 2405.72] That's good. -[2405.72 --> 2406.72] Hey, this morning we're talking about a story in the Bible, and I've got a couple questions -[2406.72 --> 2407.72] for you. -[2407.72 --> 2408.72] I've got a question for you first. -[2408.72 --> 2410.72] Have you ever had to wait super long for something? -[2410.72 --> 2414.72] Well, I've got time for a couple suggestions. -[2414.72 --> 2415.72] What? -[2415.72 --> 2421.72] What do you sometimes have to wait for? -[2421.72 --> 2422.72] A long line up? -[2422.72 --> 2423.72] Like Disneyland or something? -[2423.72 --> 2424.72] Yes. -[2424.72 --> 2427.72] How about you? -[2427.72 --> 2428.72] Waiting for your birthday. -[2428.72 --> 2429.72] Good one. -[2429.72 --> 2434.72] I've got a bunch of examples on the screen. -[2434.72 --> 2438.72] I'm going to ask you guys if you can relate to some of these. -[2438.72 --> 2440.72] The first one there is that. -[2440.72 --> 2441.72] Somebody said that one already. -[2441.72 --> 2444.72] Sometimes you have to wait super long for your birthday. -[2444.72 --> 2445.72] Okay. -[2445.72 --> 2448.72] The next one is Christmas. -[2448.72 --> 2451.72] Sometimes you've got to wait super long for that. -[2451.72 --> 2456.72] Have you ever had a game, like a sports game or a soccer game or something that you -[2456.72 --> 2459.72] really wanted to play and you had to wait a long time, like maybe only a week, but you're -[2459.72 --> 2460.72] looking forward to it? -[2460.72 --> 2462.72] You've had that? -[2462.72 --> 2465.72] The next one is how about this for some parents and kids. -[2465.72 --> 2467.72] You guys get an allowance? -[2467.72 --> 2468.72] Do you think you're... -[2468.72 --> 2469.72] No? -[2469.72 --> 2471.72] Well, how about your parents? -[2471.72 --> 2474.72] Do you think sometimes they're kind of hoping, waiting for payday so they can pay some bills? -[2474.72 --> 2476.72] Sometimes you've got to wait for that. -[2476.72 --> 2477.72] Oh, yeah. -[2477.72 --> 2478.72] You see some head nods here. -[2478.72 --> 2479.72] How about the next one? -[2479.72 --> 2480.72] How about this? -[2480.72 --> 2483.72] How many of you guys are looking forward to this coming in? -[2483.72 --> 2485.72] Report card. -[2485.72 --> 2489.72] Oh, you don't get those anymore? -[2489.72 --> 2490.72] Oh, man. -[2490.72 --> 2494.72] I know for a fact that I was never looking forward to that one. -[2494.72 --> 2495.72] Okay. -[2495.72 --> 2496.72] How about this one? -[2496.72 --> 2501.72] Sometimes summer holidays last a long time and you can't wait to get back to school. -[2501.72 --> 2502.72] Is that true? -[2502.72 --> 2503.72] I would skip. -[2503.72 --> 2505.72] Oh, maybe for some of you. -[2505.72 --> 2506.72] Okay. -[2506.72 --> 2508.72] Thank you. -[2508.72 --> 2511.72] Uh, this one is... -[2511.72 --> 2514.72] Oh, I don't know what that one is about. -[2514.72 --> 2515.72] It's a video. -[2515.72 --> 2518.72] Video games, playing a soccer game or something like that. -[2518.72 --> 2519.72] I can't remember what my idea was on that one. -[2519.72 --> 2520.72] Okay. -[2520.72 --> 2521.72] Hold on with the next slide. -[2521.72 --> 2522.72] Don't start it up yet. -[2522.72 --> 2523.72] The next one... -[2523.72 --> 2524.72] Oh. -[2524.72 --> 2525.72] Urgh. -[2525.72 --> 2526.72] Okay. -[2526.72 --> 2532.72] The next one, I know a lot of people around here have been waiting for this one. -[2532.72 --> 2535.72] I know Kevin Lobert and myself, we have one of these already. -[2535.72 --> 2537.72] Our teams do, but a lot of you guys don't. -[2537.72 --> 2538.72] Sam Wynn, Steve Rook. -[2538.72 --> 2539.72] The next one is... -[2539.72 --> 2540.72] Stanley Cup. -[2540.72 --> 2541.72] Stanley Cup. -[2541.72 --> 2542.72] A lot of Canucks fans. -[2542.72 --> 2546.72] Been waiting a long time for that one to happen. -[2546.72 --> 2547.72] How about the next one? -[2547.72 --> 2548.72] The next one's a big one. -[2548.72 --> 2550.72] How about going on vacation? -[2550.72 --> 2551.72] Looking forward to that. -[2551.72 --> 2557.72] I'm sure your parents, after a year of work, are looking for a nice vacation this summer. -[2557.72 --> 2561.72] And the last one, don't put that one up yet. -[2561.72 --> 2567.72] The next show on TV, maybe, possibly parents and kids, maybe you're looking for the next, what? -[2567.72 --> 2568.72] What do you guys watch? -[2568.72 --> 2570.72] SpongeBob or whatever it is. -[2570.72 --> 2573.72] Sometimes parents are waiting for the next show to come up too. -[2573.72 --> 2576.72] So, today we're gonna talk about waiting. -[2576.72 --> 2578.72] And you have to wait so long for something. -[2578.72 --> 2581.72] And today we're talking about in the Old Testament of the Bible. -[2581.72 --> 2588.72] There was a lot of words spoken about Jesus coming and the baby Jesus coming. -[2588.72 --> 2597.72] And there was a couple people in the Bible, Simeon and Anna, had to wait a long, long time for them to see baby Jesus come. -[2597.72 --> 2598.72] Jesus come back. -[2598.72 --> 2601.72] So, that's what we're gonna talk about this morning in children's worship time. -[2601.72 --> 2602.72] Alright? -[2602.72 --> 2604.72] But first we're gonna do the blessing. -[2604.72 --> 2607.72] So, let's have everybody stand and face the congregation. -[2611.72 --> 2612.72] Ready? -[2612.72 --> 2613.72] The... -[2613.72 --> 2615.72] Glory to the Lord. -[2615.72 --> 2619.72] Glory to the Lord. -[2628.72 --> 2629.72] Glory to the Lord. -[2629.72 --> 2632.72] Welcome to whoever's試ham chapter of the book. -[2632.72 --> 2633.72] Our Father suggests the church with God. -[2633.72 --> 2634.72] What we're going to do to go beyond the instruction or look at children's worship time is who we are. -[2634.72 --> 2635.72] If we're going to do a lot of counseling, we're going to sing each highest. -[2635.72 --> 2636.72] The fruit of the falar among them, they may be creating an imperative kiş. -[2636.72 --> 2637.72] If we're going to gelaping them a little bit, they're going to be better for you, -[2637.72 --> 2638.72] we're going to be better than the same. -[2638.72 --> 2639.72] We are going to speak. -[2639.72 --> 2640.72] That's theleader of everything. -[2640.72 --> 2641.72] There's going to be better as the Shiva family. -[2641.72 --> 2642.72] The sacrifice of heaven is a beautiful silence. -[2642.72 --> 2643.72] God is my sit down pivation left with an animal. -[2644.72 --> 2645.72] What are the true love of heaven is to be able ice. -[2645.72 --> 2662.70] Before I lead us in our congregational family prayer, one quick announcement that wasn't -[2662.70 --> 2663.38] made this morning. -[2663.98 --> 2671.14] Just highlighting this weekend, this downtown, they have Mission Fest, weekend on the 27th -[2671.14 --> 2674.04] to the 29th, focusing on discipleship and missions. -[2674.04 --> 2678.48] There will be many different speakers to listen to and speak of. -[2678.48 --> 2682.50] If there's anyone wanting further information, talk with Fran Skipper. -[2682.50 --> 2684.50] She'll be able to inform you more of that. -[2684.50 --> 2692.76] But at this time, I'd like to lead us in worship of prayer here. -[2692.76 --> 2699.82] Our Father, our loving Father, our patient Father, our forgiving Father, we thank you -[2699.82 --> 2702.28] for so many different things, Lord. -[2702.28 --> 2707.72] At this time in our congregation, Benita Smith will be undergoing a biopsy at the end of -[2707.72 --> 2710.74] January here to diagnose the mass in her bladder. -[2710.74 --> 2717.04] Lord, we ask for the guidance and healing in this process and the unknown right now, Lord, -[2717.04 --> 2718.72] be with all those who are involved. -[2718.72 --> 2725.16] Lord, we think of many others in the congregation who have dealt with recent ailments and injuries -[2725.16 --> 2726.18] and surgeries. -[2726.18 --> 2730.18] We pray for continued healing in those who are needing in that category. -[2730.18 --> 2738.48] Lord, we also think at times of those members of our congregation who are not here, who have -[2738.48 --> 2743.58] chosen not to be here, and some who have pushed you out of their lives, Lord, whether it's children, -[2743.58 --> 2745.28] family members, friends. -[2746.74 --> 2747.80] It's difficult, Lord. -[2747.80 --> 2760.36] Lord, I ask that you be with those who are struggling with those issues to outreach and let them know that we are open and willing and wanting them to come to serve with us again, Lord. -[2761.04 --> 2763.84] They are missed in this family, Lord. -[2764.24 --> 2774.96] Lord, this upcoming week, full council, the elders and deacons will be meeting here, and it's a blessing to be part of this on Tuesday, Lord. -[2774.96 --> 2783.16] I do pray that you continue to guide and show us the direction in which you want us to take this church and the work that you've put before us, Lord. -[2783.26 --> 2787.90] It's just a blessing to be part of it, and I pray for your continued guidance in this. -[2789.18 --> 2800.40] Lord, at this time, I know there are many as well who are seeking employment that has many issues, that can create many issues within marriages and families, Lord. -[2800.46 --> 2801.78] We just pay for those marriages. -[2802.30 --> 2803.98] We pay for those people looking for work. -[2803.98 --> 2814.48] We think of our church right now as we're in the process of trying to find our communications administrator, that you will bring that person and put it on their heart to apply for the position here at Emanuel. -[2815.20 --> 2821.00] Lord, we look forward to the upcoming year and the extra help in the office here, Lord, as well. -[2821.00 --> 2834.02] Lord, many things are happening here at church, and one thing happening next week that I used to be part of and proud to be part of is the cadet program here at Emanuel. -[2834.52 --> 2843.42] Lord, with the coming kids from around the community here in the Fraser Valley, we pray for traveling mercies and look forward to hosting that next week. -[2843.88 --> 2845.42] Lord, we pray for so many things. -[2845.42 --> 2847.30] All in your name, we pray. -[2847.58 --> 2847.88] Amen. -[2847.88 --> 2847.98] Amen. -[2847.98 --> 2877.04] Good morning, everyone. -[2877.04 --> 2883.76] We are going to be continuing our sermon series today on the book of Romans, and I have -[2883.76 --> 2888.44] the privilege of walking us through these final verses of Romans 1 today. -[2888.84 --> 2894.36] Now, I do find it interesting that last week, Pastor Chris looked at two verses, and I get -[2894.36 --> 2895.98] to preach on 14 of them. -[2896.56 --> 2900.92] Now, it's probably best that I get this chunk of text, because if Pastor Chris can talk for -[2900.92 --> 2904.88] 35 to 40 minutes on two verses, imagine what he would have done with 14 of them. -[2904.88 --> 2910.08] But, we are going to jump right in, because there is a bunch to get to. -[2910.16 --> 2915.20] So, if you'd open your Bibles with me today, or your Bible apps on your phone, please open -[2915.20 --> 2919.76] it up to Romans 1, and we're going to read right where we left off last week, starting -[2919.76 --> 2921.54] at verse 18. -[2922.04 --> 2925.64] As always, it's on the screen behind me, but I really do encourage you to have that open -[2925.64 --> 2928.92] in front of you, because we are going to be going back to this an awful lot today. -[2928.92 --> 2931.18] I will warn you this as well. -[2931.28 --> 2936.00] While this is a very important text for the framing of this entire book, it's also very -[2936.00 --> 2937.16] purposefully bleak. -[2938.18 --> 2942.10] Our text is not a particularly happy one today, but it is a pivotal one. -[2942.42 --> 2948.04] So, I just wanted to get out in front of that and ask you to join me with open hearts as -[2948.04 --> 2948.90] we dig in together. -[2949.10 --> 2953.00] So, Romans 1, 18 to 32 says this. -[2953.00 --> 2959.90] The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness -[2959.90 --> 2965.66] of people who suppress the truth by their wickedness, since what may be known about God -[2965.66 --> 2968.86] is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. -[2969.68 --> 2974.10] For since the creation of the world, God's invisible qualities, His eternal power and His -[2974.10 --> 2979.20] divine nature have been clearly seen, been understood from what has been made, so that -[2979.20 --> 2981.18] people are without excuse. -[2981.18 --> 2987.88] For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but their -[2987.88 --> 2991.70] thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. -[2992.56 --> 2997.18] Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal -[2997.18 --> 3005.18] God for images made to look like a mortal human being and birds and animals and reptiles. -[3006.04 --> 3010.76] Therefore, God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for -[3010.76 --> 3012.72] the degrading of their bodies with one another. -[3013.30 --> 3017.68] They exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshipped and served created things, -[3017.80 --> 3020.74] rather than the Creator, who is forever praised. -[3021.34 --> 3021.68] Amen. -[3022.44 --> 3025.64] Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. -[3025.86 --> 3030.32] Even their women exchanged natural sexual relations for unnatural ones. -[3030.32 --> 3036.88] In the same way, the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. -[3037.46 --> 3043.18] Men committed shameful acts with other men and received in themselves the due penalty for their error. -[3044.38 --> 3048.38] Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, -[3048.38 --> 3055.28] so God gave them over to a depraved mind so that they do what ought not to be done. -[3055.92 --> 3060.56] They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed, and depravity. -[3060.90 --> 3064.62] They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, and malice. -[3064.92 --> 3070.40] They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant, and boastful. -[3070.40 --> 3072.68] They invent ways of doing evil. -[3072.82 --> 3074.66] They disobey their parents. -[3074.82 --> 3080.20] They have no understanding, no fidelity, no love, no mercy. -[3081.46 --> 3085.66] Although they know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, -[3086.20 --> 3091.90] they not only continue to do these very things, but also approve of those who practice them. -[3093.06 --> 3094.70] This is the word of the Lord. -[3094.70 --> 3103.24] Now, right off the top, I'm going to tell you the main purpose of this passage, -[3103.38 --> 3108.92] because it's easier to understand as we're walking through it when we're immediately operating with that lens. -[3109.46 --> 3115.06] The big idea of this passage is that Paul is showing us how dark humanity has gotten, -[3115.68 --> 3121.96] how dark humanity is in order for the gospel truth to shine brightest. -[3121.96 --> 3128.92] Again, Paul's dark view of humanity in this passage allows the gospel truth to shine brightly. -[3129.20 --> 3130.88] And you see it right away in our text. -[3132.12 --> 3135.62] It both opens and closes with how dark humanity has gotten. -[3135.70 --> 3136.82] Take a look at both verses. -[3136.96 --> 3137.96] Verse 18. -[3138.36 --> 3142.74] The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people -[3142.74 --> 3145.82] who suppress the truth by their wickedness. -[3146.36 --> 3148.04] And then the last verse, verse 32. -[3148.04 --> 3152.06] Although they know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, -[3152.22 --> 3156.74] they not only continue to do these very things, but also approve of those who practice them. -[3157.88 --> 3162.48] Paul bookends this chunk of text with darkness and with wrath. -[3163.76 --> 3167.12] Actually, even the heading to this section of text gives this away. -[3167.20 --> 3170.36] If you've got your Bibles open, especially if you have an NIV translation, -[3170.90 --> 3172.58] look at the heading of this chunk of text. -[3172.58 --> 3176.70] It says, God's wrath against a sinful humanity. -[3178.10 --> 3182.22] Now, honestly, sometimes these headings in the Bible can be misleading, -[3182.42 --> 3185.04] but I think the NIV hit this one right on the head. -[3185.40 --> 3190.28] This is a passage talking about a specific group of people. -[3190.62 --> 3192.44] Paul isn't just talking to the Gentiles. -[3192.66 --> 3194.36] He's not just talking to the Jews. -[3194.62 --> 3196.88] He's not even just talking to the people of Rome. -[3196.88 --> 3200.94] He's talking to all of them, to humanity, to everyone. -[3201.80 --> 3206.90] Paul is talking to all of us here today about the godlessness and wickedness of humanity. -[3207.58 --> 3207.96] Everyone. -[3209.08 --> 3210.46] He's doing this for a reason. -[3213.08 --> 3217.50] Now, how many of you have studied or looked at the Heidelberg Catechism before? -[3217.66 --> 3218.62] You can do this by nodding. -[3219.32 --> 3220.12] Yeah, hands, nods. -[3220.14 --> 3220.70] Yeah, okay, good. -[3221.40 --> 3223.58] We do that here in our church for our youth. -[3223.66 --> 3226.48] Actually, the grade 9s and 10s, they look at the Heidelberg Catechism, -[3226.48 --> 3228.18] and Nick does an excellent job teaching that. -[3228.44 --> 3232.40] Now, the Catechism is a confession that our denomination uses to help us understand -[3232.40 --> 3234.52] what the Bible says and what we believe. -[3234.62 --> 3241.86] It's divided into 52 devotions called Lord's Days with a total of 129 questions and answers. -[3242.32 --> 3245.10] But the whole thing is broken down into three parts. -[3246.10 --> 3249.86] The first part is about how great our sin and misery are. -[3250.52 --> 3255.50] The second part is how we are set free from that sin and misery. -[3255.50 --> 3259.58] And the third part is about how we are to thank God for that deliverance. -[3260.46 --> 3265.20] See, the Catechism starts with sin and misery because without knowing how miserable or sinful -[3265.20 --> 3273.66] or dark we are, we can't truly understand how great and magnificent and freeing God's grace is. -[3274.74 --> 3277.62] We can't know the Savior if you don't know what needs saving. -[3277.62 --> 3284.98] Another example from our culture, actually, there's this English songwriter who goes by the stage name of Passenger, -[3285.06 --> 3286.42] and he wrote a song called Let Her Go. -[3287.14 --> 3289.28] The lyrics to that chorus teach a similar truth. -[3289.36 --> 3291.94] Now, it's not a Christian song at all, but just listen to the chorus. -[3292.40 --> 3294.92] It goes, you only need the light when it's burning low. -[3295.14 --> 3297.48] You only miss the sun when it starts to snow. -[3297.80 --> 3300.04] You only hate the road when you're missing home. -[3300.40 --> 3302.64] You only know you love her when you let her go. -[3302.64 --> 3303.92] The point is the same. -[3304.02 --> 3309.80] You don't realize how important something is or the magnitude of something unless you understand what the alternative is. -[3311.00 --> 3315.48] So just like the words of that song and just like the Catechism, Paul gets this in our text. -[3315.64 --> 3320.40] In order for him to truly communicate what the light of the gospel is, -[3320.86 --> 3326.18] he needs to communicate the darkness and the bleakness that we humans find ourselves in. -[3326.18 --> 3329.40] That's why this text is so bleak. -[3330.24 --> 3333.72] Because we suppress the truth when we exchange God with idols, -[3333.92 --> 3339.32] when we invert reality and replace God with the pursuit of other things. -[3340.00 --> 3342.56] All we are left with when we do that is darkness. -[3343.80 --> 3347.28] All we're left with, as Paul says, is wickedness and godlessness. -[3347.28 --> 3354.40] Verse 18, the wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people -[3354.40 --> 3357.66] who suppress the truth by their wickedness. -[3359.64 --> 3361.32] Now, our text goes on. -[3361.40 --> 3364.90] In verse 19 and 20, Paul points out that the world is aware of God, -[3365.06 --> 3367.32] and yet they choose to suppress this truth. -[3367.50 --> 3371.32] Now, we call this revelation of God to all people. -[3371.44 --> 3373.04] We call this general revelation. -[3373.04 --> 3377.88] God generally reveals himself to all people, believers or not. -[3378.44 --> 3381.56] And he does so in a couple of ways that our passage points to. -[3381.68 --> 3384.76] He does so through creation and through our consciences. -[3385.74 --> 3388.64] Now, this passage speaks of creation in verse 19 and 20, -[3388.68 --> 3390.84] and our consciences in verse 21 and 23. -[3390.94 --> 3394.88] The Belgic Confession, which is another document that our denomination in church uses -[3394.88 --> 3398.10] to explain the Bible and teach us about what our faith, -[3398.32 --> 3400.36] it also happens to be something that our youth look at. -[3400.36 --> 3404.24] Actually, by the way, great 11s and 12s, this is turning into a shameless plug for youth ministry, -[3404.36 --> 3405.76] and I am unapologetic for that. -[3406.30 --> 3409.62] But the Belgic Confession speaks of general revelation in article 2. -[3410.66 --> 3411.38] It says this, -[3411.44 --> 3412.94] For we know God by two means. -[3413.02 --> 3414.88] Now, we're just going to talk about the first one right now. -[3415.22 --> 3419.16] But first, by the creation, preservation, and government of the universe, -[3419.42 --> 3422.78] since that universe is before our eyes like a beautiful book, -[3423.18 --> 3425.28] in which all creatures, great and small, -[3425.66 --> 3428.94] are as letters to make us ponder the invisible things of God. -[3428.94 --> 3431.46] Like God's eternal power and divinity, -[3432.14 --> 3436.96] as the Apostle Paul says in Romans 1.20, which is our text today. -[3438.10 --> 3440.88] So, through creation, God reveals himself. -[3441.98 --> 3443.54] But Paul's saying people are ignoring that. -[3443.66 --> 3444.80] They suppress this truth. -[3444.90 --> 3445.86] They hide from it. -[3446.16 --> 3450.14] They choose to believe that this world and everything in it is not created, -[3450.88 --> 3452.38] but simply came to be. -[3452.38 --> 3455.90] That the laws and the order and the complexity of creation, -[3456.08 --> 3459.62] the minutia of an atom and the magnitude of the cosmos, -[3460.10 --> 3461.14] simply came to be. -[3461.28 --> 3462.80] That something moved. -[3463.14 --> 3464.60] How it moved is still a mystery. -[3465.20 --> 3467.08] And then everything just started to happen. -[3468.00 --> 3470.40] So, instead of glorifying God for creation, -[3470.78 --> 3473.36] they suppress this truth. -[3473.50 --> 3474.14] They ignore it. -[3474.18 --> 3475.96] They try to speak God out of existence. -[3476.14 --> 3478.96] They try to ignore the Creator. -[3478.96 --> 3480.78] As Paul says, -[3481.10 --> 3482.88] they suppress the truth by their wickedness, -[3482.92 --> 3485.40] since what may be known about God is plain to them, -[3485.62 --> 3487.72] because God has made it plain to them. -[3488.84 --> 3489.84] And then in verse 21, -[3489.98 --> 3491.76] for although they knew God, -[3491.96 --> 3494.92] they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him. -[3495.36 --> 3497.18] But their thinking became futile, -[3497.62 --> 3500.42] and their foolish hearts were darkened. -[3503.32 --> 3506.10] Christians today are often accused of being closed-minded. -[3506.10 --> 3508.06] They aren't open to the real world, -[3508.20 --> 3509.28] as the accusation goes. -[3509.36 --> 3510.76] But Paul is doing something here, -[3510.80 --> 3511.80] very counter-cultural. -[3512.80 --> 3515.30] He's saying believers are not the ones who are closed-minded, -[3515.48 --> 3518.68] but those who ignore the evidence of God are. -[3519.22 --> 3520.90] They are the ones suppressing the truth. -[3521.00 --> 3523.48] They are the ones living in denial of a Creator God. -[3523.54 --> 3524.94] And when we live in that denial, -[3525.64 --> 3528.64] it creates godless and wicked people. -[3530.14 --> 3532.64] So, the beginning few verses really push that -[3532.64 --> 3533.72] and highlight that truth. -[3533.72 --> 3536.34] And then, now the next whole middle chunk of our text, -[3536.54 --> 3540.26] it teaches us what living in godlessness and wickedness looks like. -[3540.42 --> 3544.62] What living in a world where humanity suppresses the truth looks like. -[3545.62 --> 3548.42] We're going to hum along in this middle chunk of text here for a bit. -[3548.50 --> 3550.84] And like most things in Romans, there's a lot to look at. -[3551.06 --> 3552.64] I'm going to do my best to do it justice, -[3552.80 --> 3554.34] but also do it in a timely manner. -[3554.50 --> 3556.60] So, keep your chins up, keep your arms in, -[3556.72 --> 3558.52] buckle up, strap yourselves in, because we're going to go. -[3558.52 --> 3561.68] So, first, when humanity, when humanity, -[3561.84 --> 3562.70] well, bad start already, -[3563.08 --> 3567.08] when humanity stops acknowledging that God is, in fact, God, -[3567.74 --> 3569.46] we don't cease to worship. -[3570.18 --> 3571.76] We shift what we worship. -[3573.06 --> 3576.74] In verse 23, Paul says that people exchanged worshiping God -[3576.74 --> 3579.46] for images of mortal men, birds, animals, and reptiles. -[3579.66 --> 3581.54] They stopped worshiping the true God, -[3581.90 --> 3583.50] but they didn't stop worshiping. -[3583.50 --> 3586.68] They just shifted their worship to idols. -[3588.06 --> 3590.10] We humans, we must worship something. -[3590.22 --> 3592.38] We've been created by God to worship, -[3592.50 --> 3594.16] to worship Him, actually. -[3594.50 --> 3596.38] But if we choose not to worship Him, -[3596.58 --> 3598.16] we will worship something else, -[3598.62 --> 3600.32] because that's what we're designed to do. -[3601.52 --> 3603.48] The problem is, when we ignore God, -[3603.52 --> 3604.44] and we ignore the truth, -[3604.48 --> 3605.58] and we stop worshiping Him, -[3605.84 --> 3608.12] we fall into godlessness, of course, -[3608.94 --> 3609.72] and wickedness. -[3609.84 --> 3612.02] We start worshiping things. -[3612.02 --> 3614.26] Sometimes even good things. -[3614.46 --> 3616.96] We can take good things and make them God things. -[3617.08 --> 3618.48] We can take wonderful things -[3618.48 --> 3620.44] and make them ultimate things. -[3621.38 --> 3624.24] And that inverts the truth again. -[3625.76 --> 3628.06] Once people stop worshiping the Creator, -[3628.34 --> 3629.98] they start worshiping the created. -[3631.24 --> 3633.32] As Paul says in verse 21 to 23, -[3633.44 --> 3634.76] that makes fools of humanity -[3634.76 --> 3637.74] and causes our foolish hearts to become darkened. -[3637.80 --> 3638.60] So here's a question. -[3639.16 --> 3640.58] Once this takes place, -[3640.58 --> 3642.90] what happens with our morality? -[3644.70 --> 3645.62] See, up until this point, -[3645.70 --> 3647.70] Paul's been talking about our relationship with God. -[3648.44 --> 3650.06] But when we embrace godlessness, -[3650.24 --> 3652.28] not only is our vertical relationship, -[3652.42 --> 3653.40] if you will, harmed, -[3653.80 --> 3655.58] but our horizontal relationships -[3655.58 --> 3657.26] with our fellow humanity as well. -[3658.78 --> 3660.90] Our morality is affected. -[3661.74 --> 3662.38] But how? -[3662.38 --> 3664.76] Now remember, -[3664.86 --> 3666.72] we talked about the general revelation, -[3666.90 --> 3669.96] about how God generally reveals Himself to all creation. -[3670.04 --> 3671.30] We talked about that with creation, -[3671.46 --> 3673.32] but it also happens with our consciences, -[3674.16 --> 3675.74] through our created morals. -[3677.02 --> 3678.62] But if there's no God, -[3679.92 --> 3681.48] then who has the authority -[3681.48 --> 3684.10] to say what is right and wrong? -[3684.10 --> 3687.44] It can't be a personal thing. -[3688.52 --> 3689.54] Something can't be wrong -[3689.54 --> 3690.92] because I claim it to be. -[3691.02 --> 3691.72] That's arrogant, -[3691.86 --> 3692.64] that's faulty logic. -[3692.74 --> 3693.86] If you want proof of this, -[3694.26 --> 3696.20] you can test this out today if you want. -[3696.70 --> 3697.94] Go on the social medias, -[3698.10 --> 3698.80] anyone you wish, -[3699.02 --> 3700.36] and publicly declare -[3700.36 --> 3703.90] that you think it was either right or wrong -[3703.90 --> 3705.76] to wear a mask during the pandemic. -[3705.76 --> 3707.50] And then sit back -[3707.50 --> 3710.26] and watch people come a-commenting. -[3712.60 --> 3714.10] No matter what side of the fence -[3714.10 --> 3715.20] you sat on that argument, -[3715.78 --> 3717.52] there is someone sitting on the other side, -[3718.86 --> 3720.72] disagreeing and convicted of their morals. -[3720.86 --> 3722.52] No, morality cannot be a personal thing. -[3723.90 --> 3726.22] But morality is also not a majority thing. -[3726.88 --> 3727.50] It can't be. -[3727.58 --> 3729.44] History has taught us that over and over again. -[3730.66 --> 3733.34] The majority of people thought slavery was fine -[3733.34 --> 3735.08] in North America a few hundred years ago. -[3735.08 --> 3737.94] So clearly morality cannot be decided by the majority. -[3739.80 --> 3741.40] Morality is not a democracy. -[3743.10 --> 3744.50] And therein lies the problem. -[3746.12 --> 3748.94] Without God revealing himself to all people -[3748.94 --> 3750.12] through our consciences, -[3750.58 --> 3751.40] without God, -[3751.66 --> 3754.64] there is nowhere to locate moral absolutes. -[3755.68 --> 3757.72] Not individuals, not groups, -[3758.04 --> 3759.58] not in a system or democracy. -[3759.98 --> 3762.98] So where do we get our moral absolutes from? -[3765.08 --> 3766.66] Quick example. -[3766.76 --> 3767.78] When I was heading to the States -[3767.78 --> 3769.26] in my pre-Nexus days, -[3769.34 --> 3770.60] I was in this border lineup. -[3770.72 --> 3771.58] It was fairly long. -[3771.64 --> 3773.14] Let's call it 40 cars long. -[3773.24 --> 3774.60] And getting a little bit impatient. -[3774.76 --> 3775.98] And as I'm sitting in line, -[3776.52 --> 3778.40] this spiffy Honda Civic -[3778.40 --> 3779.82] drives up in the Nexus lane. -[3779.90 --> 3780.24] And I was like, -[3780.28 --> 3781.26] oh, I should maybe get that. -[3781.32 --> 3782.44] And then at the last minute, -[3782.88 --> 3784.40] he juts into the lane -[3784.40 --> 3787.62] and cuts in front of like probably a hundred cars. -[3787.92 --> 3789.66] All of, most of you groaned right there. -[3790.36 --> 3791.12] Well, I'll tell you, -[3791.22 --> 3792.82] most of the line groaned too, -[3793.00 --> 3793.90] including myself. -[3794.30 --> 3795.48] Lots of people honked. -[3795.62 --> 3797.04] Two people got out of their cars, -[3797.16 --> 3798.60] started screaming all sorts of things -[3798.60 --> 3800.48] and showing them all sorts of fun hand gestures. -[3800.86 --> 3802.12] And my question is, -[3802.60 --> 3805.08] how did everyone in that line -[3805.08 --> 3806.20] know that they were wronged? -[3806.20 --> 3807.20] Right? -[3811.84 --> 3813.20] God's given us a moral compass. -[3813.34 --> 3814.36] It's been created in us. -[3814.58 --> 3816.04] That's the opposite of evolving. -[3816.20 --> 3817.08] If evolution was true, -[3817.14 --> 3817.82] he should be praised. -[3817.94 --> 3818.86] He got his first. -[3820.18 --> 3821.24] Survival of the fittest. -[3822.06 --> 3822.78] By that logic, -[3822.94 --> 3824.14] bullying and murder would be fine -[3824.14 --> 3824.70] because again, -[3824.76 --> 3826.28] you're evolving to become the strongest. -[3826.60 --> 3828.54] But we all know those are wrong as well. -[3830.08 --> 3832.10] There's a fellow by the name of Greg Banson. -[3832.26 --> 3833.24] He has a good quote on this. -[3833.28 --> 3833.88] He says this, -[3833.88 --> 3836.94] Imagine a person who comes in here today, -[3837.06 --> 3837.34] tonight, -[3837.52 --> 3839.36] and argues no air exists, -[3840.02 --> 3842.60] but continues to breathe air while he argues. -[3843.64 --> 3844.44] Now intellectually, -[3844.66 --> 3845.94] atheists continue to breathe. -[3846.22 --> 3847.68] They continue to use reason -[3847.68 --> 3849.36] and draw scientific conclusions, -[3849.72 --> 3851.86] which assume an orderly universe, -[3852.12 --> 3853.84] to make moral judgments, -[3854.68 --> 3856.96] which assume absolute values. -[3857.72 --> 3859.30] But the atheistic view of things -[3859.30 --> 3861.24] would in theory make such breathing impossible. -[3861.54 --> 3863.74] They are breathing God's air all the time. -[3863.74 --> 3865.22] They are arguing against him. -[3867.16 --> 3869.30] When we stop worshiping the creator, -[3869.64 --> 3871.12] we invert the truth, -[3871.62 --> 3873.52] and we cannot locate morality. -[3874.80 --> 3876.30] What people do then -[3876.30 --> 3878.60] is they invent their own morality. -[3880.08 --> 3882.40] See, humanity either creates rigid systems -[3882.40 --> 3884.88] designed to enforce our own understanding -[3884.88 --> 3885.86] of God's morality, -[3886.36 --> 3889.76] or we redefine the boundaries of God's morality -[3889.76 --> 3892.46] to mitigate or even eliminate sin altogether. -[3893.78 --> 3896.38] Humanity has become very good at both of these things. -[3897.32 --> 3899.30] But these systems are not God's intention. -[3901.66 --> 3903.32] When either of these things happen, -[3903.44 --> 3906.20] God gives us over to pursue what we desire. -[3906.94 --> 3909.16] The word that Paul uses in our text is called -[3909.16 --> 3910.22] epithumia, -[3910.32 --> 3911.70] which I probably pronounced wrong, -[3911.70 --> 3913.18] but it means over desires. -[3913.80 --> 3915.52] The things that we want more than him. -[3916.08 --> 3919.00] When humanity wants to abandon God's righteousness, -[3919.66 --> 3920.84] suppress the truth, -[3921.18 --> 3922.86] and chase our over desires, -[3923.42 --> 3925.44] the text says God allows us to do so. -[3926.02 --> 3928.38] But when God allows us to do that, -[3928.96 --> 3929.80] problems follow. -[3931.56 --> 3932.76] Again, look at your Bibles. -[3932.86 --> 3933.98] In the middle of our passage, -[3934.12 --> 3935.10] Paul uses the term, -[3935.24 --> 3936.42] God gave them over, -[3936.92 --> 3937.60] three times. -[3937.98 --> 3940.02] And he lists the things that we chase -[3940.02 --> 3941.18] when we abandon God. -[3942.22 --> 3943.36] If you've got your Bibles open, -[3943.40 --> 3944.14] I really hope you do, -[3944.20 --> 3946.30] you'll notice that these three final paragraphs -[3946.30 --> 3947.10] of our text, -[3947.20 --> 3948.48] they lead with this phrase. -[3948.56 --> 3949.78] You can see it in verse 24, -[3950.22 --> 3951.20] and in verse 26, -[3951.42 --> 3952.78] and again in verse 28. -[3952.84 --> 3953.92] And all of these paragraphs -[3953.92 --> 3956.34] give examples of what we chase -[3956.34 --> 3958.22] when we pursue our own moralities, -[3958.92 --> 3959.80] or our own gods, -[3960.24 --> 3961.88] rather than pursue God's righteousness. -[3962.82 --> 3963.62] And for time's sake, -[3963.66 --> 3965.14] we're not going to linger on any of them -[3965.14 --> 3965.84] too, too long, -[3965.84 --> 3968.26] but there is definitely some things -[3968.26 --> 3969.16] that we need to discuss. -[3970.04 --> 3970.90] So we'll start with the first. -[3972.04 --> 3973.78] The first God gave them over to, -[3973.88 --> 3975.10] in verse 24 and 25, -[3975.30 --> 3975.50] says, -[3975.82 --> 3976.98] God gave them over -[3976.98 --> 3979.08] in the sinful desires of their hearts -[3979.08 --> 3980.70] to sexual impurity -[3980.70 --> 3982.22] for the degrading of their bodies -[3982.22 --> 3982.88] with one another. -[3983.28 --> 3984.86] They exchanged the truth about God -[3984.86 --> 3985.46] for a lie, -[3985.88 --> 3987.18] and worshipped and served -[3987.18 --> 3988.10] created things. -[3989.38 --> 3991.24] They worshipped each other. -[3991.40 --> 3993.22] They worshipped their bodies. -[3993.22 --> 3995.14] They worshipped sex. -[3995.14 --> 3996.66] But not as God intended. -[3997.90 --> 3999.46] They obsessed with their bodies, -[3999.58 --> 4000.20] with sexuality, -[4000.36 --> 4001.28] and degraded themselves -[4001.28 --> 4003.06] by worshipping and serving, -[4003.24 --> 4003.80] as Paul says, -[4003.88 --> 4004.92] created things. -[4006.28 --> 4007.20] Now, the Roman empire, -[4008.20 --> 4008.70] I should say, -[4008.80 --> 4010.26] that Paul lived in -[4010.26 --> 4011.28] had some similarities -[4011.28 --> 4012.36] to our culture. -[4012.86 --> 4013.54] The Roman culture -[4013.54 --> 4015.34] was very over-sexualized. -[4016.12 --> 4017.34] Sexual favors were used -[4017.34 --> 4017.90] as payment. -[4018.50 --> 4019.62] And the pagan world -[4019.62 --> 4020.14] was quite hedonistic, -[4020.82 --> 4022.48] meaning the pursuit of pleasure -[4022.48 --> 4024.18] was a very important principle -[4024.18 --> 4024.76] in determining -[4024.76 --> 4025.70] sort of the morality -[4025.70 --> 4026.94] of a certain course of action. -[4027.38 --> 4028.96] Now, I see our world -[4028.96 --> 4030.58] as much the same. -[4031.64 --> 4033.14] On Instagram or TikTok -[4033.14 --> 4034.04] or Pika social, -[4034.16 --> 4035.24] videos are made of women -[4035.24 --> 4036.28] flaunting their bodies -[4036.28 --> 4036.90] all the time, -[4036.94 --> 4037.86] and the reason these videos -[4037.86 --> 4038.70] are so popular -[4038.70 --> 4039.96] is because men in our culture -[4039.96 --> 4040.80] are eating them up. -[4041.28 --> 4043.08] In our world of TikTok reels -[4043.08 --> 4044.12] and OnlyFans -[4044.12 --> 4046.26] and the role that social media plays -[4046.26 --> 4048.20] in having us compare ourselves -[4048.20 --> 4049.06] to one another, -[4050.06 --> 4050.92] we are obsessed -[4050.92 --> 4052.44] with photoshopping our butts -[4052.44 --> 4053.88] and Botoxing our faces -[4053.88 --> 4054.98] in order to look younger -[4054.98 --> 4055.52] or fitter -[4055.52 --> 4056.58] or more sexualized. -[4056.96 --> 4057.68] That's the culture -[4057.68 --> 4058.46] that we live in. -[4059.46 --> 4060.52] And this fad only continues -[4060.52 --> 4061.48] to invade our world -[4061.48 --> 4062.20] and proves -[4062.20 --> 4063.22] that we chase -[4063.22 --> 4064.66] this over-desire -[4064.66 --> 4065.48] of beauty -[4065.48 --> 4066.40] and lust -[4066.40 --> 4067.72] and sexualization -[4067.72 --> 4068.74] in our culture too. -[4071.12 --> 4072.72] Paul continues this list, -[4073.12 --> 4074.78] focusing on the sexual nature -[4074.78 --> 4075.24] of the world -[4075.24 --> 4076.88] in verses 26 and 27. -[4077.08 --> 4078.64] Now, according to Tim Keller -[4078.64 --> 4079.52] and N.T. Wright -[4079.52 --> 4080.68] and a bunch of other people -[4080.68 --> 4081.92] I read over the last few weeks, -[4082.28 --> 4083.14] these two verses -[4083.14 --> 4084.18] might be the most -[4084.18 --> 4085.48] controversial two verses -[4085.48 --> 4087.10] in the entire Bible, -[4087.62 --> 4088.62] specifically -[4088.62 --> 4089.94] and actually especially -[4089.94 --> 4092.66] to the Western culture's eyes. -[4093.32 --> 4094.80] It's the longest text -[4094.80 --> 4096.60] in God's Word -[4096.60 --> 4098.20] pertaining to homosexuality, -[4098.26 --> 4099.22] and because of that, -[4099.30 --> 4100.18] people target it -[4100.18 --> 4101.12] to prove one point -[4101.12 --> 4101.66] or the other. -[4102.12 --> 4102.76] We're going to read it. -[4102.78 --> 4103.38] It says this, -[4103.38 --> 4105.20] God gave them over -[4105.20 --> 4106.44] to shameful lusts. -[4106.80 --> 4107.54] Even their women -[4107.54 --> 4109.82] exchanged natural sexual relations -[4109.82 --> 4111.12] for unnatural ones. -[4111.56 --> 4112.46] In the same way, -[4112.52 --> 4113.86] the men also abandoned -[4113.86 --> 4115.50] natural relations with women -[4115.50 --> 4116.70] and were inflamed -[4116.70 --> 4117.92] with lust for one another. -[4118.88 --> 4120.82] Men committed shameful acts -[4120.82 --> 4121.48] with other men -[4121.48 --> 4122.52] and received in themselves -[4122.52 --> 4123.26] the due penalty -[4123.26 --> 4124.00] for their error. -[4125.96 --> 4127.02] Now, regularly, -[4127.22 --> 4127.84] these two verses -[4127.84 --> 4129.94] are plucked out of the air -[4129.94 --> 4130.80] by conservatives -[4130.80 --> 4132.96] and used to defend -[4132.96 --> 4133.68] their stances. -[4135.46 --> 4136.50] What's important -[4136.50 --> 4138.06] is seeing these two verses -[4138.06 --> 4139.60] in the context -[4139.60 --> 4141.12] that we find them in. -[4141.26 --> 4142.70] They are part of a list -[4142.70 --> 4143.78] of sinful things -[4143.78 --> 4145.26] that humanity pursues -[4145.26 --> 4146.46] instead of God. -[4147.24 --> 4148.20] Seeing these verses -[4148.20 --> 4149.14] in that context -[4149.14 --> 4150.26] provides some clarity, -[4150.42 --> 4151.04] but often not -[4151.04 --> 4151.94] the kind we want. -[4152.92 --> 4153.94] See, some see this verse -[4153.94 --> 4155.14] as saying that only people -[4155.14 --> 4156.72] who are sexually active -[4156.72 --> 4158.62] against their true self, -[4158.74 --> 4159.36] if you will, -[4159.36 --> 4159.90] are sinning. -[4160.20 --> 4161.00] Others say that Paul -[4161.00 --> 4161.72] is talking about -[4161.72 --> 4163.60] promiscuous homosexual sex, -[4163.94 --> 4164.88] not monogamous -[4164.88 --> 4165.54] or committed -[4165.54 --> 4166.90] same-sex relationships. -[4167.82 --> 4169.72] But both the language here -[4169.72 --> 4171.22] used by Paul -[4171.22 --> 4172.10] and the context -[4172.10 --> 4172.88] of these verses -[4172.88 --> 4173.42] themselves -[4173.42 --> 4174.90] don't support these claims. -[4176.66 --> 4177.62] Paul uses the term -[4177.62 --> 4179.56] unnatural relations here. -[4179.66 --> 4180.16] He uses the word -[4180.16 --> 4181.32] parapushin, -[4181.52 --> 4181.98] which again, -[4182.04 --> 4183.30] I probably pronounced wrong. -[4184.70 --> 4186.38] But sexual relations -[4186.38 --> 4187.10] going against -[4187.10 --> 4188.42] how God intended. -[4189.36 --> 4190.66] Sex was created -[4190.66 --> 4191.26] as an act -[4191.26 --> 4192.04] for one man -[4192.04 --> 4192.84] and one woman -[4192.84 --> 4193.80] within the boundaries -[4193.80 --> 4194.74] of marriage. -[4196.04 --> 4196.68] Without starting -[4196.68 --> 4197.56] a whole new sermon, -[4198.16 --> 4199.28] sex between two people -[4199.28 --> 4200.22] of the same gender -[4200.22 --> 4201.32] or between two -[4201.32 --> 4202.28] unmarried people -[4202.28 --> 4202.98] at all, -[4203.40 --> 4204.32] according to the word -[4204.32 --> 4204.76] of God, -[4204.86 --> 4205.82] found here and elsewhere, -[4205.96 --> 4206.58] is unnatural -[4206.58 --> 4207.74] in the eyes of the Lord. -[4208.26 --> 4208.62] And therefore, -[4208.74 --> 4210.04] it fits into this list -[4210.04 --> 4212.02] that humanity pursues -[4212.02 --> 4212.74] when they abandon -[4212.74 --> 4213.86] the idea of God. -[4214.72 --> 4215.58] Now, our church -[4215.58 --> 4216.22] is not hidden -[4216.22 --> 4217.04] from this discussion. -[4217.04 --> 4218.02] We've had conversations -[4218.02 --> 4219.34] about homosexuality -[4219.34 --> 4219.94] at events like -[4219.94 --> 4220.70] Roots and Routes. -[4220.98 --> 4221.72] We've looked at books -[4221.72 --> 4223.04] by Rebecca McLaughlin -[4223.04 --> 4224.00] and by Ed Shaw, -[4224.12 --> 4224.74] and we've engaged -[4224.74 --> 4225.52] in conversation -[4225.52 --> 4227.66] about the Human Sexuality Report, -[4228.06 --> 4229.46] which was supported -[4229.46 --> 4230.68] at Synod back in June. -[4231.30 --> 4232.40] One of the other discussions -[4232.40 --> 4233.64] we've recently had -[4233.64 --> 4234.78] was in our youth ministry. -[4234.96 --> 4235.64] Ding, ding, ding, -[4235.72 --> 4236.62] ring the bell once again. -[4237.80 --> 4238.92] Our youth ministry -[4238.92 --> 4239.98] a year or two ago -[4239.98 --> 4242.96] had Mary Lee Bauma come -[4242.96 --> 4243.98] and speak to us -[4243.98 --> 4244.60] on the topic -[4244.60 --> 4245.66] of homosexuality. -[4245.66 --> 4247.12] Now, Mary Lee Bauma -[4247.12 --> 4248.02] is a pastor -[4248.02 --> 4249.36] who helped author -[4249.36 --> 4251.02] that Human Sexuality Report -[4251.02 --> 4252.88] that Synod supported -[4252.88 --> 4254.28] a half a year ago. -[4255.12 --> 4255.98] She is also -[4255.98 --> 4257.22] same-sex attracted. -[4258.32 --> 4259.12] She spoke -[4259.12 --> 4260.42] about how the Bible -[4260.42 --> 4261.34] clearly states -[4261.34 --> 4262.32] that sex is meant -[4262.32 --> 4263.06] for one man -[4263.06 --> 4264.22] and one woman -[4264.22 --> 4265.26] within the boundaries -[4265.26 --> 4265.88] of marriage, -[4266.26 --> 4267.52] and sex between people -[4267.52 --> 4268.48] in any other way, -[4269.08 --> 4269.54] including, -[4269.66 --> 4270.66] but not limited to, -[4270.74 --> 4271.48] limited to, -[4271.54 --> 4272.56] homosexual sex -[4272.56 --> 4273.70] is wrong. -[4273.70 --> 4274.78] However, -[4275.78 --> 4276.86] she also helped us -[4276.86 --> 4278.14] reshape this narrative -[4278.14 --> 4279.36] on homosexuality -[4279.36 --> 4280.20] in a very, -[4280.46 --> 4281.58] very helpful way -[4281.58 --> 4283.12] by pointing to three myths -[4283.12 --> 4284.48] and three truths -[4284.48 --> 4285.54] that are worth mentioning -[4285.54 --> 4286.00] right now. -[4286.38 --> 4286.86] They're going to be up -[4286.86 --> 4287.76] on the screen behind me. -[4288.52 --> 4289.44] Myth number one -[4289.44 --> 4291.82] is that if you are gay, -[4292.18 --> 4293.68] you need to become straight -[4293.68 --> 4295.56] in order to love God properly. -[4295.56 --> 4297.94] But the truth is -[4297.94 --> 4299.14] that if you are -[4299.14 --> 4300.18] same-sex attracted, -[4300.54 --> 4301.22] you are made -[4301.22 --> 4302.28] in God's image -[4302.28 --> 4303.74] and are beautiful -[4303.74 --> 4304.84] just as you are. -[4307.12 --> 4307.82] Myth number two, -[4308.42 --> 4309.74] marriage and sex -[4309.74 --> 4311.00] are the only path -[4311.00 --> 4312.16] to a life of joy -[4312.16 --> 4313.14] and freedom. -[4313.32 --> 4314.50] But the truth is -[4314.50 --> 4316.74] that living a celibate life, -[4316.96 --> 4318.04] an unmarried life, -[4318.30 --> 4319.06] can be a life -[4319.06 --> 4320.22] full of joy and freedom. -[4320.88 --> 4321.56] Both history -[4321.56 --> 4322.58] and stories in Scripture -[4322.58 --> 4323.44] prove this point. -[4323.44 --> 4325.72] Finally, -[4326.34 --> 4327.12] myth number three, -[4328.08 --> 4329.40] some sins are worse -[4329.40 --> 4330.06] than others. -[4330.58 --> 4331.62] But the truth is -[4331.62 --> 4333.86] we are all sinners. -[4335.20 --> 4336.94] And it's this third myth -[4336.94 --> 4338.00] and this third truth, -[4338.10 --> 4338.60] in fact, -[4338.70 --> 4339.94] that really springboards -[4339.94 --> 4341.22] into this final section -[4341.22 --> 4342.12] of our text today -[4342.12 --> 4343.88] because the list of sins -[4343.88 --> 4344.70] that we pursue -[4344.70 --> 4345.54] instead of God -[4345.54 --> 4346.74] continues to grow -[4346.74 --> 4348.54] in verses 28 to 31 -[4348.54 --> 4349.30] of our text. -[4349.74 --> 4350.60] If you look at that, -[4350.78 --> 4351.22] you'll see that -[4351.22 --> 4352.54] all the sins listed there -[4352.54 --> 4354.74] are on as equal -[4354.74 --> 4356.12] a plane as sexual impurity -[4356.12 --> 4357.52] and they're considered -[4357.52 --> 4358.98] wicked in God's eyes. -[4359.04 --> 4359.96] Just look at the list -[4359.96 --> 4360.68] that Paul writes -[4360.68 --> 4363.00] in verse 29 to 31. -[4363.50 --> 4364.36] Sins of greed, -[4365.06 --> 4365.42] envy, -[4366.18 --> 4366.54] murder, -[4367.38 --> 4368.02] strife, -[4368.82 --> 4369.32] deceit, -[4369.96 --> 4370.46] malice, -[4371.34 --> 4371.68] gossip, -[4372.12 --> 4372.86] slandering, -[4373.44 --> 4373.54] insolence, -[4374.32 --> 4374.74] arrogance, -[4375.16 --> 4375.80] boastfulness, -[4376.10 --> 4376.92] disobedience, -[4377.32 --> 4378.32] and lack of loyalty, -[4378.86 --> 4379.76] a lack of love, -[4380.36 --> 4381.74] and a lack of mercy. -[4381.74 --> 4382.68] It's almost like Paul -[4382.68 --> 4384.14] thought he was running -[4384.14 --> 4384.70] out of time -[4384.70 --> 4385.36] when he was writing -[4385.36 --> 4385.82] this letter -[4385.82 --> 4386.56] and he says this, -[4386.86 --> 4387.56] all of this, -[4388.06 --> 4389.46] all of this is bad. -[4390.92 --> 4394.08] All of these are shameful lusts. -[4395.28 --> 4396.70] All of these are things -[4396.70 --> 4397.84] that humanity pursues -[4397.84 --> 4399.00] when they surpass truth -[4399.00 --> 4401.82] and they suppress God -[4401.82 --> 4403.40] and all of it -[4403.40 --> 4404.34] is disgraceful. -[4406.52 --> 4407.78] So quickly tying this -[4407.78 --> 4408.20] all together, -[4408.30 --> 4408.90] let's circle back -[4408.90 --> 4410.36] to the homosexuality discussion -[4410.36 --> 4411.24] for just one second. -[4411.34 --> 4412.34] There's two ways -[4412.34 --> 4413.30] to misunderstand -[4413.30 --> 4415.46] verses 26 and 27 -[4415.46 --> 4416.32] of our text today. -[4416.62 --> 4417.74] I'm going to be paraphrasing -[4417.74 --> 4418.98] Tim Keller with these points. -[4420.08 --> 4420.66] That is this, -[4420.74 --> 4421.36] the first is, -[4421.44 --> 4422.76] in an effort to appear relevant -[4422.76 --> 4424.06] to the culture around us -[4424.06 --> 4424.84] and to seem loving -[4424.84 --> 4425.48] and welcoming -[4425.48 --> 4427.70] to the LGBTQ plus community, -[4428.14 --> 4429.38] some people have downplayed -[4429.38 --> 4430.10] or even denied -[4430.10 --> 4431.24] the teaching of scripture -[4431.24 --> 4433.54] on homosexual sex, -[4434.54 --> 4435.82] such as this text. -[4435.82 --> 4437.64] We might call this -[4437.64 --> 4438.74] the progressive approach. -[4439.74 --> 4440.02] However, -[4440.12 --> 4440.94] the second way -[4440.94 --> 4442.30] is that others -[4442.30 --> 4443.32] take the Bible -[4443.32 --> 4444.82] and take what the Bible -[4444.82 --> 4446.32] says on homosexuality -[4446.32 --> 4447.12] very seriously -[4447.12 --> 4449.58] but in a self-righteous way. -[4450.16 --> 4451.34] They do not seek to love -[4451.34 --> 4452.46] or welcome gay people -[4452.46 --> 4452.92] at all. -[4453.64 --> 4454.68] They may seek to love -[4454.68 --> 4455.58] their Hindu neighbors -[4455.58 --> 4456.44] or their friends -[4456.44 --> 4457.54] who are committing adultery -[4457.54 --> 4459.22] but not homosexual people. -[4460.30 --> 4461.30] We might call this -[4461.30 --> 4462.36] the conservative approach. -[4462.36 --> 4464.56] But Paul, -[4464.78 --> 4465.60] in our text, -[4465.76 --> 4467.20] is doing neither. -[4468.48 --> 4469.08] He is clear -[4469.08 --> 4470.26] that homosexual sex -[4470.26 --> 4470.92] is a sin -[4470.92 --> 4472.20] but so are a lot -[4472.20 --> 4472.96] of other things. -[4474.54 --> 4475.32] And so many -[4475.32 --> 4475.96] of those things -[4475.96 --> 4477.12] strike a lot closer -[4477.12 --> 4477.52] to home -[4477.52 --> 4478.16] for most of us -[4478.16 --> 4478.84] listening today -[4478.84 --> 4480.00] like slander -[4480.00 --> 4480.66] or envy -[4480.66 --> 4481.34] or greed -[4481.34 --> 4482.32] or disobedience. -[4485.36 --> 4486.32] So if you see -[4486.32 --> 4487.54] homosexual sex -[4487.54 --> 4488.70] as an act of perversion -[4488.70 --> 4490.38] but you don't see -[4490.38 --> 4490.90] deceit -[4490.90 --> 4492.32] or gospel -[4492.32 --> 4493.16] or gospel, -[4493.16 --> 4493.50] sorry, -[4493.62 --> 4494.10] that's terrible. -[4494.38 --> 4495.04] If you don't see -[4495.04 --> 4495.58] deceit -[4495.58 --> 4496.66] or gossip, -[4497.22 --> 4498.12] that's the word, -[4498.86 --> 4499.80] or boasting -[4499.80 --> 4501.62] or obsessing -[4501.62 --> 4502.18] over money -[4502.18 --> 4503.52] as equally as perverse, -[4504.76 --> 4505.72] then Paul is using -[4505.72 --> 4507.10] verses 29 to 31 -[4507.10 --> 4508.22] here to wake you up, -[4508.74 --> 4509.42] to shake us -[4509.42 --> 4510.02] a little bit -[4510.02 --> 4511.02] because here's -[4511.02 --> 4511.72] the truth, church, -[4511.90 --> 4512.62] and hear this. -[4513.46 --> 4515.46] We can only grasp -[4515.46 --> 4517.02] the light -[4517.02 --> 4517.82] of the gospel -[4517.82 --> 4520.00] when we understand, -[4520.00 --> 4521.16] just as Paul did -[4521.16 --> 4522.76] in 1 Timothy 1.15, -[4523.32 --> 4524.58] that we are -[4524.58 --> 4525.62] the worst sinner -[4525.62 --> 4526.16] we know. -[4527.52 --> 4529.32] We can only grasp -[4529.32 --> 4530.14] the light -[4530.14 --> 4530.72] of the gospel -[4530.72 --> 4531.68] when we understand -[4531.68 --> 4532.78] that we are -[4532.78 --> 4533.62] the worst sinner -[4533.62 --> 4534.52] we know. -[4535.76 --> 4536.76] And that brings us -[4536.76 --> 4537.46] to the final point -[4537.46 --> 4538.02] of this message -[4538.02 --> 4538.44] where we're going -[4538.44 --> 4539.22] to land this plane, -[4539.32 --> 4539.82] so to speak. -[4540.40 --> 4541.04] What do we do -[4541.04 --> 4542.04] with a text like this? -[4543.46 --> 4544.88] This text teaches us -[4544.88 --> 4546.18] that sin has permeated -[4546.18 --> 4546.70] everywhere. -[4547.22 --> 4548.24] Humanity has made -[4548.24 --> 4549.46] a habit of suppressing -[4549.46 --> 4550.00] the truth -[4550.00 --> 4550.94] that is our God. -[4551.24 --> 4551.84] Sin is everywhere. -[4553.06 --> 4553.90] Though not everything -[4553.90 --> 4556.14] we do is totally sinful, -[4556.72 --> 4557.80] nothing we do -[4557.80 --> 4559.36] is completely untouched -[4559.36 --> 4559.98] by sin. -[4560.68 --> 4561.30] Double negative, -[4561.50 --> 4561.86] but true. -[4563.38 --> 4563.90] Theologically, -[4564.08 --> 4564.52] we call this -[4564.52 --> 4565.40] total depravity, -[4565.78 --> 4568.36] and Paul calls this -[4568.36 --> 4569.24] godlessness -[4569.24 --> 4570.56] and wickedness. -[4571.42 --> 4572.40] This is more than -[4572.40 --> 4573.38] just the fall of man -[4573.38 --> 4574.50] because saying humanity -[4574.50 --> 4574.96] fell, -[4576.10 --> 4577.38] it lacks agency. -[4577.76 --> 4578.86] It lacks mankind's -[4578.86 --> 4579.76] role in sin. -[4580.10 --> 4580.76] Sin is more than -[4580.76 --> 4581.48] a fall. -[4582.42 --> 4583.20] Sin is rebellion. -[4584.10 --> 4585.28] It is a rebellion -[4585.28 --> 4586.12] against God -[4586.12 --> 4586.84] and a rebellion -[4586.84 --> 4587.76] against truth. -[4588.52 --> 4590.04] So how do we respond -[4590.04 --> 4591.94] to this dark view -[4591.94 --> 4592.54] of humanity? -[4592.70 --> 4593.56] How do we get out? -[4595.76 --> 4596.62] We don't. -[4598.58 --> 4599.36] We don't. -[4599.36 --> 4602.20] Because God does. -[4604.00 --> 4605.32] Because God did. -[4605.80 --> 4607.10] God sent his son -[4607.10 --> 4609.10] to live a righteous life, -[4609.18 --> 4610.34] a perfect life, -[4610.42 --> 4611.32] not suppressing -[4611.32 --> 4612.62] the truth of the law, -[4612.84 --> 4613.90] but living it out -[4613.90 --> 4614.84] in perfection. -[4615.28 --> 4617.12] His life brought him -[4617.12 --> 4617.92] to the cross -[4617.92 --> 4619.16] where he took on -[4619.16 --> 4620.50] all of the wickedness -[4620.50 --> 4621.14] of the world -[4621.14 --> 4622.42] that Paul just laid out -[4622.42 --> 4623.58] so clearly for us, -[4623.66 --> 4624.32] and he took it -[4624.32 --> 4624.94] on his shoulders, -[4625.14 --> 4625.96] and he bore it -[4625.96 --> 4626.62] on himself, -[4626.80 --> 4627.74] and he died. -[4627.74 --> 4629.54] And he took that sin, -[4629.62 --> 4630.80] and he took that wickedness -[4630.80 --> 4631.76] with him to the tomb -[4631.76 --> 4632.70] where three days later -[4632.70 --> 4633.30] he awoke, -[4633.58 --> 4635.16] and he rose from the dead, -[4635.30 --> 4636.56] and he's defeated sin -[4636.56 --> 4637.78] and death once and for all -[4637.78 --> 4638.22] and is sitting -[4638.22 --> 4639.32] at the right hand of God -[4639.32 --> 4640.18] right now. -[4640.24 --> 4641.40] And now salvation -[4641.40 --> 4642.96] is available -[4642.96 --> 4644.72] for all who believe -[4644.72 --> 4645.36] in that truth, -[4645.60 --> 4646.46] for all who don't -[4646.46 --> 4647.38] suppress that -[4647.38 --> 4648.40] but believe it. -[4649.18 --> 4650.10] So nothing, -[4650.98 --> 4652.50] there is nothing -[4652.50 --> 4653.28] we can do -[4653.28 --> 4654.76] because Jesus -[4654.76 --> 4656.60] did everything. -[4657.74 --> 4659.34] when it comes -[4659.34 --> 4660.00] to salvation, -[4660.34 --> 4661.46] we do not deserve it. -[4661.56 --> 4662.48] We cannot attain it -[4662.48 --> 4662.96] ourselves, -[4663.10 --> 4664.20] nor can we earn it -[4664.20 --> 4664.96] in any way. -[4665.80 --> 4667.30] We only receive it -[4667.30 --> 4668.08] through Christ, -[4668.48 --> 4669.06] our King. -[4669.12 --> 4670.12] We can receive -[4670.12 --> 4671.38] this gift of salvation -[4671.38 --> 4673.08] when God reveals -[4673.08 --> 4674.24] the truth of it -[4674.24 --> 4674.88] to us. -[4675.96 --> 4677.14] And when he reveals -[4677.14 --> 4677.98] that truth to us, -[4678.04 --> 4678.18] well, -[4679.48 --> 4680.60] you can do nothing -[4680.60 --> 4681.42] but accept it -[4681.42 --> 4683.60] because the truth -[4683.60 --> 4684.60] of God's grace -[4684.60 --> 4686.18] through Jesus -[4686.18 --> 4687.88] shines so brightly -[4687.88 --> 4688.76] in this world -[4688.76 --> 4690.52] that is full of darkness. -[4691.02 --> 4692.46] We must draw out -[4692.46 --> 4694.18] any self-righteous pride -[4694.18 --> 4695.48] that we are good -[4695.48 --> 4696.50] or better than others -[4696.50 --> 4697.22] and acknowledge -[4697.22 --> 4697.90] once again -[4697.90 --> 4699.08] that we are -[4699.08 --> 4700.32] the worst sinners -[4700.32 --> 4700.84] we know. -[4702.16 --> 4703.64] I am the worst sinner -[4703.64 --> 4704.16] I know. -[4704.28 --> 4705.30] You are the worst sinner -[4705.30 --> 4705.80] you know. -[4706.72 --> 4708.20] And all of us -[4708.20 --> 4709.98] need the salvation -[4709.98 --> 4710.62] of God -[4710.62 --> 4711.88] found in Christ's life, -[4712.04 --> 4712.28] death, -[4712.36 --> 4712.94] and resurrection. -[4713.14 --> 4713.92] Your debt is paid -[4713.92 --> 4714.48] through Jesus. -[4714.48 --> 4716.22] You are saved -[4716.22 --> 4717.64] through Jesus -[4717.64 --> 4718.56] because of Jesus. -[4718.82 --> 4719.40] You do not need -[4719.40 --> 4720.70] to fear God's wrath -[4720.70 --> 4721.58] if you believe -[4721.58 --> 4722.06] in the truth -[4722.06 --> 4724.20] of the gospel -[4724.20 --> 4724.92] of Jesus Christ -[4724.92 --> 4726.24] because you have -[4726.24 --> 4727.74] received the righteousness -[4727.74 --> 4729.32] from Jesus. -[4731.02 --> 4732.32] When God reveals -[4732.32 --> 4733.42] himself to us -[4733.42 --> 4734.36] and saves us -[4734.36 --> 4735.04] from the darkness, -[4736.04 --> 4737.88] we revert -[4737.88 --> 4739.26] back to the truth -[4739.26 --> 4740.86] and we understand -[4740.86 --> 4741.54] that God -[4741.54 --> 4743.04] is truth. -[4743.04 --> 4744.50] that's where -[4744.50 --> 4745.32] Paul's letter -[4745.32 --> 4745.96] to the Romans -[4745.96 --> 4746.58] is going. -[4747.68 --> 4748.62] That's why we need -[4748.62 --> 4749.26] to understand -[4749.26 --> 4750.08] the dark side -[4750.08 --> 4750.60] of humanity -[4750.60 --> 4751.64] because only then -[4751.64 --> 4752.80] does the gospel truth -[4752.80 --> 4753.70] of Christ's life, -[4754.08 --> 4754.32] death, -[4754.32 --> 4755.36] and resurrection -[4755.36 --> 4756.32] shine. -[4756.98 --> 4757.80] Only then -[4757.80 --> 4758.44] does the grace -[4758.44 --> 4759.00] of our Lord -[4759.00 --> 4759.52] and Savior -[4759.52 --> 4760.82] truly mean -[4760.82 --> 4761.42] something. -[4761.54 --> 4762.14] When we see -[4762.14 --> 4762.84] the darkness, -[4763.32 --> 4764.44] the gospel truth -[4764.44 --> 4765.34] of Jesus -[4765.34 --> 4766.52] shines -[4766.52 --> 4768.24] because there -[4768.24 --> 4768.94] is no other -[4768.94 --> 4769.30] name -[4769.30 --> 4770.38] that has -[4770.38 --> 4770.84] the power -[4770.84 --> 4771.48] to save -[4771.48 --> 4772.52] but Jesus -[4772.52 --> 4773.12] Christ, -[4773.56 --> 4774.06] the Lord. -[4774.14 --> 4774.38] Amen? -[4775.38 --> 4776.08] Let me pray. -[4781.86 --> 4782.90] Holy God, -[4783.90 --> 4785.26] we -[4785.26 --> 4787.88] could not -[4787.88 --> 4788.38] be more -[4788.38 --> 4789.00] indebted -[4789.00 --> 4790.58] to Jesus -[4790.58 --> 4791.02] Christ, -[4791.12 --> 4791.72] our Savior, -[4792.44 --> 4793.56] who took -[4793.56 --> 4794.32] on the sin -[4794.32 --> 4794.94] and wickedness -[4794.94 --> 4795.66] of this world -[4795.66 --> 4797.46] and bore it -[4797.46 --> 4798.16] on himself -[4798.16 --> 4799.62] and atoned -[4799.62 --> 4800.18] for all -[4800.18 --> 4800.92] of our sins. -[4802.04 --> 4802.56] Lord, -[4802.62 --> 4803.56] we do nothing -[4803.56 --> 4804.88] to achieve -[4804.88 --> 4805.60] our salvation -[4805.60 --> 4808.20] except sin -[4808.20 --> 4810.24] which causes -[4810.24 --> 4811.06] us to need it. -[4813.34 --> 4813.88] Lord, -[4813.96 --> 4814.82] allow us -[4814.82 --> 4815.48] to see -[4815.48 --> 4816.16] the darkness -[4816.16 --> 4817.50] that this world -[4817.50 --> 4817.84] is in. -[4817.94 --> 4818.36] Allow us -[4818.36 --> 4818.66] to see -[4818.66 --> 4819.22] the darkness -[4819.22 --> 4820.30] that we -[4820.30 --> 4820.88] are in. -[4822.38 --> 4823.10] But more -[4823.10 --> 4823.52] than that, -[4823.56 --> 4823.72] God, -[4823.76 --> 4824.34] allow us -[4824.34 --> 4824.64] to see -[4824.64 --> 4825.28] the light -[4825.28 --> 4826.12] that is -[4826.12 --> 4826.92] your gospel. -[4827.22 --> 4827.54] Allow us -[4827.54 --> 4827.80] to see -[4827.80 --> 4828.42] the truth -[4828.42 --> 4829.18] that is -[4829.18 --> 4829.56] in your -[4829.56 --> 4829.94] name. -[4830.12 --> 4830.56] Allow us -[4830.56 --> 4831.20] to see -[4831.20 --> 4832.04] that you -[4832.04 --> 4832.46] are the -[4832.46 --> 4832.88] creator, -[4833.04 --> 4833.34] God, -[4833.72 --> 4834.24] the king -[4834.24 --> 4834.56] of the -[4834.56 --> 4834.88] universe, -[4835.16 --> 4835.78] the savior -[4835.78 --> 4836.48] of all -[4836.48 --> 4836.90] things. -[4837.40 --> 4838.12] And allow -[4838.12 --> 4838.40] us, -[4838.56 --> 4838.72] Lord, -[4839.12 --> 4840.12] to be -[4840.12 --> 4840.84] drawn to -[4840.84 --> 4841.14] you, -[4842.10 --> 4842.72] drawn to -[4842.72 --> 4843.24] the truth. -[4844.68 --> 4845.20] Not get -[4845.20 --> 4846.02] bogged down -[4846.02 --> 4846.72] by the sin -[4846.72 --> 4849.64] but confess -[4849.64 --> 4850.40] and repent -[4850.40 --> 4850.90] and turn -[4850.90 --> 4851.30] to you. -[4852.20 --> 4852.42] Lord, -[4852.48 --> 4852.78] may we -[4852.78 --> 4853.14] know -[4853.14 --> 4853.94] that no -[4853.94 --> 4854.46] other name -[4854.46 --> 4854.86] has the -[4854.86 --> 4855.34] power to -[4855.34 --> 4856.00] save but -[4856.00 --> 4857.36] Jesus Christ. -[4857.90 --> 4858.14] Amen. -[4876.72 --> 4878.34] who'd -[4878.34 --> 4879.26] be -[4879.26 --> 4879.50] that -[4879.50 --> 4880.48] rown -[4880.48 --> 4893.84] has the -[4893.84 --> 4894.26] enemy -[4894.26 --> 4895.96] who -[4895.96 --> 4897.50] have -[4897.50 --> 4898.30] parts -[4898.30 --> 4898.80] on -[4898.80 --> 4900.12] miracles -[4900.30 --> 4901.86] earth -[4901.86 --> 4902.32] and -[4902.32 --> 4902.76] various -[4902.76 --> 4903.46] peoples -[4903.46 --> 4905.58] we -[4905.58 --> 4906.54] see -[4906.54 --> 4915.60] He who rejoiced to know Thee, renew before Thy throne. -[4915.60 --> 4925.80] The solemn pledge we owe Thee to go and make Thee known. -[4925.80 --> 4941.80] Where other lords beside Thee, O there I'm in display. -[4941.80 --> 4951.80] Where forces that defy Thee defy Thee still today. -[4951.80 --> 4961.80] With none to heed their crying For life and love and light. -[4961.80 --> 4971.80] Unnumbered souls are dying And passed into the night. -[4971.80 --> 4981.80] We go to all the world With kingdom hope unfurled. -[4981.80 --> 4991.80] No other name that's bound to save But Jesus Christ the Lord. -[4991.80 --> 5007.80] We bear the torch that flaming Fell from the hands of those -[5007.80 --> 5017.80] Who gave their lives proclaiming That Jesus died and rose. -[5017.80 --> 5026.80] Ours is the same commission The same blood message ours. -[5026.80 --> 5036.80] But by the same ambition To Thee we yield our power. -[5036.80 --> 5045.80] We go to all the world With kingdom hope unfurled. -[5045.80 --> 5060.80] inquirasal rule -[5060.80 --> 5072.76] O Father who sustained them, O Spirit who inspired, -[5072.76 --> 5082.76] Savior whose love constrained them to toil with zeal untied. -[5082.76 --> 5092.20] From cowardice defend us, from lethargy awake, -[5092.20 --> 5101.96] For thorn thine errands send us to labor for thy sake. -[5101.96 --> 5111.40] We go to all the world with kingdom hope unfurled, -[5111.40 --> 5121.00] No other name has far to save but Jesus Christ the Lord. -[5121.00 --> 5130.20] We go to all the world with kingdom hope unfurled, -[5130.20 --> 5141.00] No other name has far to save but Jesus Christ the Lord. -[5141.40 --> 5157.40] If you are needing prayer today after this service, there are prayer people in the foyer, -[5157.40 --> 5159.00] kind of by the connect booth there. -[5159.00 --> 5161.00] They are wearing yellow name tags. -[5161.00 --> 5168.60] We invite you to go and see them or honestly ask anybody here to pray for you because we will. -[5168.60 --> 5174.60] Right now, let us go into our weeks with this blessing from the Lord. -[5174.60 --> 5177.80] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[5177.80 --> 5182.20] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[5182.20 --> 5186.20] The Lord turn his face towards you and give you his peace. -[5186.20 --> 5189.80] And all God's people said, Amen. -[5189.80 --> 5202.20] Jesus, of the Lord. -[5202.20 --> 5204.36] Amen. -[5204.36 --> 5209.40] Teresa, of the love of them and sing. -[5209.40 --> 5215.96] Then of faith rise up and sing of the great and glorious King. -[5215.96 --> 5225.26] glorious King, you are strong when you are weak, in your brokenness complete. -[5228.26 --> 5244.26] Shout to the north and the south, sing to the east and the west, Jesus is Savior to all, Lord of heaven and earth. -[5245.96 --> 5262.96] Rise up women of the truth, stand and sing to broken hearts, who can know the healing power of our awesome King of love. -[5264.46 --> 5275.94] Shout to the north and the south, sing to the east and the west, Jesus is Savior to all, Lord of heaven and earth. -[5275.96 --> 5290.44] We've been through fire, we've been through rain, we've been refined by the power of His name. -[5290.44 --> 5300.28] We've fallen deeper in love with you, you burn the truth on our lips. -[5300.82 --> 5316.44] Shout to the north and the south, sing to the east and the west, Jesus is Savior to all, Lord of heaven and earth. -[5316.44 --> 5334.44] Rise up church with broken wings, fill this place with songs again, of our God who reigns on high, by His grace again with love. -[5334.44 --> 5352.44] Rise up women of the truth, stand and sing to the east and the west, Jesus is Savior to all, Lord of heaven and earth. -[5352.44 --> 5367.44] Shout to the north and the south, sing to the east and the west, Jesus is Savior to all, Lord of heaven and earth. -[5367.44 --> 5372.70] Jesus is Lord of heaven and earth. -[5372.70 --> 5375.82] Jesus is Lord of heaven and earth. -[5375.82 --> 5405.80] guitar solo -[5405.82 --> 5435.80] guitar solo -[5435.82 --> 5437.82] guitar solo -[5465.82 --> 5467.82] guitar solo -[5495.82 --> 5497.82] guitar solo -[5525.82 --> 5527.82] guitar solo -[5555.82 --> 5557.82] guitar solo -[5585.82 --> 5587.82] guitar solo -[5615.82 --> 5617.82] guitar solo -[5645.82 --> 5647.82] guitar solo -[5675.82 --> 5677.82] guitar solo diff --git a/Sunday Worship - January 23, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - January 23, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 070ceae76439db2c17baff69811fcce89b465d77..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - January 23, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,92 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction to worship service -• Announcement about HCBC (youth event) -• Invitation to stand or take a posture of receipt in worship -• Psalm 108 reading -• Worship songs and declarations -• The King of glory and His majesty -• Amazing grace and unfailing love -• Jesus' sacrifice and redemption -• Trust and surrender to God's love -• Resting one's life in God's hands -• Need for God's defense, righteousness, and guidance -• Freedom from sin through Christ's presence -• Praying for freedom and holiness through Christ -• Recognizing the need for God's presence and guidance in daily life -• Trusting in God's plans and sovereignty -• Acknowledging humanity's limitations and dependence on God -• Praising God's nature, character, and love -• Giving thanks and worshiping God -• Discussing specific ministries and their work (The Salvation Army of Canada) -• Encouraging generosity and cheerful giving to support these efforts -• The leader recites a passage from Psalm 23 -• A new member is welcomed into the church family -• Questions are asked to affirm faith and commitment to God's mission -• Affirmations of faith are given by Louise, John, and Margaret -• The congregation is invited to stand in support of the new members -• Promises are exchanged between the church family and the new members -• Mention of CRC people in the room -• Discussion on membership or joining the fellowship and providing contact information -• Explanation of faith to children during kids' worship time -• Demonstration on faith by a leader jumping off and being caught by Ruby (or not) -• Discussion on faith and trusting someone to catch you -• Analogy of having faith in Jesus compared to trusting someone physically -• Prayer for opening hearts and understanding of Jesus' teachings -• Church family prayer led by an elder, thanking God for freedom to worship without persecution -• Prayers for those struggling with physical or mental pain -• Miriam Visser's health concerns and request for a treatment plan from doctors -• Comfort and peace for those mourning the loss of loved ones -• Blessings for Jared Alcoma as he travels to Costa Rica for leadership development -• Prayers for the CRC denomination's conversation on leadership and direction -• New executive director for the denomination -• Healing and gratitude for Kevin and Colleen Breedveld after a car crash -• Welcome and blessings for new church members Luis Condos, John, and Margaret Struick -• Prayer for Pastor Chris as he leads the congregation -• Blessings for the leadership of the church and all its committees and gatherings -• The central theme of Exodus is God's relationship with Pharaoh -• Pharaoh increases the workload for Israelites, requiring them to gather their own straw while maintaining the same quota of bricks -• Leaders plead with Moses and Aaron, but Pharaoh refuses to listen -• Moses returns to God, questioning why he brought trouble on the people and why they haven't been rescued -• God responds, affirming his covenant identity and promises to bring the Israelites out of Egypt -• Moses expresses frustration, feeling that God has not kept his promises -• God reassures Moses, citing his covenant identity and promises as a source of strength and encouragement in difficult times. -• The speaker suggests that Moses' excuses for not being a good speaker may be motivated by his own fears or anxieties rather than a genuine inability to speak. -• Good leaders don't take on the anxiety of their people, but rather recognize and manage their own anxiety. -• When anxious, one's thinking is clouded and it becomes difficult to see the bigger picture. -• A leader should learn to be a non-anxious presence in high-pressure situations. -• Leaders cannot take away others' anxieties, only manage their own. -• It's essential for leaders to recognize and address their anxiety rather than trying to ignore or hide it. -• God is available to hear and process one's fears, worries, and anxieties. -• Leaders should not borrow worry or anxiety from the people around them. -• Anxiety and frustration can be overwhelming, but God is big enough to handle them -• Moses' anxiety caused him to forget about God's bigger plan -• The Israelites' struggle was not just about escaping Egypt, but about freedom to worship and become their own nation in their own land -• God wants our anger, frustration, and anxiety, and invites us to come to him in prayer and devotion -• God is big enough to handle our pain, and has a plan that is beyond our comprehension -• His plan is good, for our good and his glory, and He works all things for those who love Him -• The significance of knowing God's name and its connection to a deeper relationship with Him -• God's unchanging nature and immutability, meaning He does not change over time -• God's I am name and its implications on His promises and sovereignty -• The importance of understanding that God is big enough to have a bigger picture than human comprehension -• The fulfillment of God's promise of "I will" being equivalent to saying "it is done" -• The Bible's story of Israel's deliverance from Egypt is a microcosm of humanity's story -• God's promise to take his people out of Egypt and into the land is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who sets believers free from sin and death -• Jesus' life, death, and resurrection demonstrate God's power to turn evil into good -• The story is not yet fully realized, as Jesus will return to renew the world and usher in a new creation -• Believers can be guaranteed of this future through God's immutable nature -• Moses' failure to lead the Israelites due to his own discouragement and anxiety -• The responsibility of disciples to proclaim the truth about God, despite the risk of being rejected or not heard -• The danger of falling back on what is "normal" when faced with anxiety, rather than turning to God's promises and strength -• The importance of fixing one's eyes on Jesus, who is revealed as a source of hope and encouragement in the face of anxiety -• The speaker asks for prayer to see God more clearly -• The importance of understanding God's name, identity, and covenant promises -• The speaker leads a prayer asking God to open their hearts to see and hear his word -• The prayer expresses the desire to know the truth about God's character and promises -• The speaker asks God to strengthen and embolden them as they go into the world -• A hymn or song is sung, expressing trust in God and praise for his character -• A final message encourages listeners to remember that God goes with them in the power of his name and promise -• Prayers for protection and support -• Blessings from God -• Love and service to the Lord -• God's presence and guidance -• Jesus Christ as King of kings and Lord of all worlds -• Angelic praises and worship \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - January 23, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - January 23, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a62fd084adcf607c786b2ea5b2eccb0324f9acce..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - January 23, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1356 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 122.00] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 152.00] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 182.00] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 212.00] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 242.00] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 272.00] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 302.00] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 332.00] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 362.00] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 392.00] Thank you. -[392.00 --> 394.00] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 426.00] Thank you. -[426.00 --> 428.00] Thank you. -[441.00 --> 446.00] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 461.00] It is well with my soul. -[461.00 --> 477.00] It is well with my soul. -[480.00 --> 495.00] It is well with my soul. -[495.00 --> 506.00] It is well, it is well with my soul. -[506.00 --> 508.00] It is well. -[508.00 --> 521.00] It is well with my soul. -[521.00 --> 536.00] It is well with my soul. -[536.00 --> 551.00] It is well with my soul. -[551.00 --> 556.00] It is well with my soul. -[556.00 --> 563.00] Well, good morning everyone. -[563.00 --> 567.00] Isn't it ten? -[567.00 --> 568.00] I'll say good morning in a minute. -[568.00 --> 588.00] I just found out that it is not ten yet. -[588.00 --> 591.00] Yeah, Pastor Chris will say good morning. -[591.00 --> 603.00] I kind of dropped the ball on that one. -[603.00 --> 604.00] Good morning. -[604.00 --> 606.00] Good morning. -[606.00 --> 607.00] Welcome to church. -[607.00 --> 611.00] I am so excited that we can be here together. -[611.00 --> 613.00] We can be worshiping our God together. -[613.00 --> 621.00] Whether you are present with us in person or if you are participating online, welcome to our worship this weekend. -[621.00 --> 622.00] My name is Chris. -[622.00 --> 623.00] I am one of the pastors here. -[623.00 --> 630.00] It is my privilege to lead you along with these others in our worship together this morning. -[630.00 --> 632.00] Just one announcement before we begin. -[632.00 --> 634.00] That is for the youth. -[634.00 --> 636.00] There is HCBC tonight. -[636.00 --> 639.00] Please make arrangements to be here for that. -[639.00 --> 644.00] If you have any questions about what that looks like, you can grab Pastor Kevin after the service. -[644.00 --> 647.00] He will address those with you. -[647.00 --> 650.00] We are going to worship our God together this morning. -[650.00 --> 653.00] So I am going to invite you as you are able and where you are to stand. -[653.00 --> 658.00] Or if you are at home, you can stand or just open your hands and take a posture of receipt. -[658.00 --> 664.00] That we might be welcomed into God's presence with his greeting together. -[664.00 --> 673.00] Open your hearts and your minds to hear from God in worship as he meets us in this place today. -[673.00 --> 686.00] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son and our Savior through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[686.00 --> 688.00] Amen. -[688.00 --> 689.00] Let's worship God. -[689.00 --> 695.00] Psalm 108 says, -[695.00 --> 697.00] My heart, O God, is steadfast. -[697.00 --> 700.00] I will sing and make music with all my soul. -[700.00 --> 702.00] Awake, harp and lyre. -[702.00 --> 704.00] I will awaken the dawn. -[704.00 --> 707.00] I will praise you, Lord, among the nations. -[707.00 --> 710.00] I will sing of you among the peoples. -[710.00 --> 712.00] For great is your love. -[712.00 --> 715.00] Higher than the heavens, your faithfulness reaches to the skies. -[715.00 --> 719.00] Be exalted, O God, above the heavens. -[719.00 --> 722.00] Let your glory be over all the earth. -[722.00 --> 737.00] We stand and lift up our hands. -[737.00 --> 743.00] For the joy of the Lord is our strength. -[743.00 --> 748.00] We bow down and worship him now. -[748.00 --> 752.00] How great, how awesome is he. -[752.00 --> 758.00] Together we sing. -[758.00 --> 763.00] Everyone sing. -[763.00 --> 769.00] Holy is the Lord God Almighty. -[769.00 --> 773.00] The earth is filled with his glory. -[773.00 --> 778.00] Holy is the Lord God Almighty. -[778.00 --> 784.00] The earth is filled with his glory. -[784.00 --> 790.00] The earth is filled with his glory. -[790.00 --> 795.00] We stand and lift up our hands. -[795.00 --> 800.00] For the joy of the Lord is our strength. -[800.00 --> 805.00] We bow down and worship him now. -[805.00 --> 809.00] How great, how awesome is he. -[809.00 --> 822.00] The earth is filled with his glory. -[822.16 --> 829.12] is -[839.28 --> 846.08] filled with his glory -[852.00 --> 856.00] It's rising up all around -[856.00 --> 861.00] It's the anthem of the Lord's ring now -[861.00 --> 866.00] It's rising up all around -[866.00 --> 873.00] It's the anthem of the Lord's ring now -[873.00 --> 883.00] Together we sing, everyone sing -[883.00 --> 889.00] Holy is the Lord God Almighty -[889.00 --> 894.00] The earth is filled with His glory -[894.00 --> 899.00] Holy is the Lord God Almighty -[899.00 --> 904.00] The earth is filled with His glory -[904.00 --> 909.00] The earth is filled with His glory -[909.00 --> 914.00] The earth is filled with His glory -[929.00 --> 944.00] Who breaks the power of sin and darkness -[944.00 --> 949.00] Whose love is mighty and so much stronger -[949.00 --> 951.00] The King of glory -[951.00 --> 954.00] The King above all kings -[954.00 --> 962.00] Who shakes the whole earth with holy thunder -[962.00 --> 967.00] And leaves us breathless in awe and wonder -[967.00 --> 969.00] The King of glory -[969.00 --> 974.00] The King above all kings -[974.00 --> 979.00] This is amazing grace -[979.00 --> 983.00] This is unfailing love -[983.00 --> 988.00] That You would take my place -[988.00 --> 993.00] That You would bear my cross -[993.00 --> 997.00] You laid down Your life -[997.00 --> 1003.00] That I would be set free -[1003.00 --> 1007.00] Oh, Jesus I sing for -[1007.00 --> 1010.00] All that You've done for me -[1010.00 --> 1023.00] Who brings our chaos back into order -[1023.00 --> 1028.00] Who makes the orphan a son and daughter -[1028.00 --> 1032.00] The King of glory, the King of glory -[1032.00 --> 1034.00] Who rose the nations -[1034.00 --> 1036.00] With truth and justice -[1036.00 --> 1041.00] Shines like the sun in all of its brilliance -[1041.00 --> 1047.00] The King of glory, the King above all kings -[1047.00 --> 1051.00] This is amazing grace -[1051.00 --> 1056.00] This is unfailing love -[1056.00 --> 1061.00] That You would take my place -[1061.00 --> 1066.00] That You would bear my cross -[1066.00 --> 1070.00] You laid down Your life -[1070.00 --> 1076.00] That I would be set free -[1076.00 --> 1079.00] Oh, Jesus I sing for -[1079.00 --> 1083.00] All that You've done for me -[1083.00 --> 1090.00] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[1090.00 --> 1095.00] Worthy is the King who conquered the grave -[1095.00 --> 1099.00] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[1099.00 --> 1104.00] Worthy is the King who conquered the grave -[1104.00 --> 1108.00] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[1108.00 --> 1111.00] Worthy is the King who conquered the grave -[1111.00 --> 1116.00] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[1116.00 --> 1119.00] Worthy, worthy, worthy -[1119.00 --> 1124.00] Oh, this is amazing grace -[1124.00 --> 1128.00] This is unfailing love -[1128.00 --> 1132.00] That You would take my place -[1132.00 --> 1137.00] That You would bear my cross -[1137.00 --> 1141.00] You would lay down Your life -[1141.00 --> 1147.00] That I would be set free -[1147.00 --> 1150.00] Oh, Jesus I sing for -[1150.00 --> 1153.00] All that You've done for me -[1153.00 --> 1164.00] You may be seated -[1164.00 --> 1166.00] You may be seated -[1171.00 --> 1174.00] Matthew 11, 28 and 29 -[1174.00 --> 1178.00] It says, come to me all you who are weary and burdened -[1178.00 --> 1180.00] And I will give you rest -[1180.00 --> 1181.00] Take my yoke upon you -[1181.00 --> 1183.00] And lean or learn from me -[1183.00 --> 1185.00] For I am gentle and humble in heart -[1185.00 --> 1188.00] And you will find rest for your souls -[1188.00 --> 1191.00] I was reflecting on that -[1191.00 --> 1193.00] And I was thinking -[1193.00 --> 1195.00] After 50 or 60 years of walking with Jesus -[1195.00 --> 1199.00] It should be easy for me to come to Him and find rest -[1199.00 --> 1206.00] But the old me still wants my vision of my life -[1206.00 --> 1209.00] The old me still wants what I want -[1209.00 --> 1211.00] For me, I guess it really comes down to trust -[1211.00 --> 1215.00] Do I trust Jesus and His love for me? -[1215.00 --> 1216.00] And His love for me? -[1216.00 --> 1218.00] Even -[1218.00 --> 1220.00] Or do I, sorry -[1220.00 --> 1223.00] Do I trust Jesus and His love for me enough -[1223.00 --> 1225.00] To give Him my life? -[1225.00 --> 1228.00] To rest my future in His hands? -[1228.00 --> 1231.00] I know the right answer -[1231.00 --> 1232.00] But -[1232.00 --> 1239.00] When the right answer isn't the honest answer -[1239.00 --> 1241.00] Then I -[1241.00 --> 1244.00] The part I don't like is -[1244.00 --> 1246.00] The trill in my voice -[1246.00 --> 1249.00] I reread these verses -[1249.00 --> 1253.00] And I let the love I hear in these words -[1253.00 --> 1254.00] Wash over me -[1254.00 --> 1259.00] And I'm encouraged to rest my life in His hands -[1259.00 --> 1261.00] Let's rise and sing -[1261.00 --> 1262.00] Lord I need you -[1262.00 --> 1287.00] Lord I come -[1287.00 --> 1290.00] I confess -[1290.00 --> 1291.00] I confess -[1291.00 --> 1293.00] Bowing here -[1293.00 --> 1297.00] I find my rest -[1297.00 --> 1299.00] Without you -[1299.00 --> 1303.00] I fall apart -[1303.00 --> 1306.00] You're the one -[1306.00 --> 1311.00] That guides my heart -[1311.00 --> 1316.00] Lord I need you -[1316.00 --> 1321.00] Oh I need you -[1321.00 --> 1323.00] Every hour -[1323.00 --> 1326.00] I need you -[1326.00 --> 1329.00] I want defense -[1329.00 --> 1331.00] My righteousness -[1331.00 --> 1333.00] Oh God how I need you -[1333.00 --> 1338.00] Oh God how I need you -[1338.00 --> 1344.00] Where sin runs deep -[1344.00 --> 1348.00] Your grace is Lord -[1348.00 --> 1350.00] Where grace is found -[1350.00 --> 1354.00] Is where you are -[1354.00 --> 1356.00] Where you are -[1356.00 --> 1358.00] Lord I am free -[1358.00 --> 1359.00] Where you are -[1359.00 --> 1360.00] Lord I am free -[1360.00 --> 1367.00] Holiness is Christ in me -[1367.00 --> 1368.00] Where you are -[1368.00 --> 1369.00] Lord I am free -[1369.00 --> 1371.00] Where you are -[1371.00 --> 1372.00] Where you are -[1372.00 --> 1373.00] Lord I am free -[1373.00 --> 1381.00] Holiness is Christ to me -[1381.00 --> 1390.00] Lord, I need you, oh, I need you -[1390.00 --> 1396.00] Every hour I need you -[1396.00 --> 1403.00] My one defense, my righteousness -[1403.00 --> 1409.00] Oh God, how I need you -[1409.00 --> 1415.00] Teach my song to rise to you -[1415.00 --> 1420.00] When temptation comes my way -[1420.00 --> 1426.00] When I cannot stand, I'll fall on you -[1426.00 --> 1431.00] Jesus, you're my hope and stay -[1431.00 --> 1437.00] When I cannot stand, I'll fall on you -[1437.00 --> 1445.00] Jesus, you're my hope and stay -[1445.00 --> 1452.00] Lord, I need you, oh, I need you -[1452.00 --> 1458.00] Every hour I need you -[1458.00 --> 1464.00] My one defense, my righteousness -[1464.00 --> 1470.00] Oh God, how I need you -[1470.00 --> 1491.00] My one defense, my righteousness -[1491.00 --> 1497.00] Oh God, how I need you -[1497.00 --> 1504.00] My one defense, my righteousness -[1504.00 --> 1512.00] Oh God, how I need you -[1512.00 --> 1514.00] Pray with me -[1514.00 --> 1517.00] Father, how we need you -[1517.00 --> 1520.00] Sometimes we catch ourselves telling you -[1520.00 --> 1523.00] How and where you should lead us -[1523.00 --> 1526.00] Forgive us for the times we didn't -[1526.00 --> 1529.00] Trust you enough to rest our plans -[1529.00 --> 1532.00] To rest in your plans for us -[1532.00 --> 1535.00] Help us to understand your gentle -[1535.00 --> 1536.00] And humble heart -[1536.00 --> 1538.00] Thank you for washing us -[1538.00 --> 1540.00] In your everlasting love -[1540.00 --> 1544.00] Lord, will you open our eyes to your beauty -[1544.00 --> 1545.00] Amen -[1545.00 --> 1546.00] Amen -[1546.00 --> 1566.00] We are a moment -[1566.00 --> 1569.00] You are forever -[1569.00 --> 1571.00] Lord of the ages -[1571.00 --> 1573.00] Lord of the ages -[1573.00 --> 1577.00] God before time -[1577.00 --> 1581.00] We are a vapor -[1581.00 --> 1585.00] You are eternal -[1585.00 --> 1588.00] Love everlasting -[1588.00 --> 1593.00] Reigning on high -[1593.00 --> 1599.00] Holy, holy, holy -[1599.00 --> 1601.00] Lord God Almighty -[1601.00 --> 1604.00] Worthy earth -[1604.00 --> 1608.00] The land who was saved -[1608.00 --> 1612.00] High of praises -[1612.00 --> 1615.00] Honor and glory -[1615.00 --> 1620.00] Be unto your name -[1620.00 --> 1623.00] Be unto your name -[1623.00 --> 1625.00] Be unto your name -[1625.00 --> 1627.00] Be unto your name -[1627.00 --> 1629.00] Be unto your name -[1629.00 --> 1630.00] Be unto your name -[1630.00 --> 1631.00] Be unto your name -[1631.00 --> 1633.00] We are the broken -[1633.00 --> 1635.00] You are the healer -[1635.00 --> 1637.00] Jesus' Redeemer -[1637.00 --> 1644.08] Jesus, Redeemer, mighty to save. -[1644.42 --> 1650.38] You are the love song, we'll sing forever. -[1651.46 --> 1658.30] Bowing before you, blessed in your name. -[1659.98 --> 1665.78] Holy, holy Lord God Almighty. -[1665.78 --> 1673.18] Worthy is the love of one's name. -[1673.62 --> 1679.82] Highest praise and honor and glory. -[1681.00 --> 1685.44] Be unto your name. -[1687.16 --> 1692.28] Be unto your name. -[1692.28 --> 1699.68] Holy, holy Lord God Almighty. -[1700.68 --> 1706.28] Worthy is the Lamb whom I sing. -[1707.42 --> 1713.48] Highest praise and honor and glory. -[1713.48 --> 1720.16] Be unto your name. -[1720.88 --> 1727.62] Be unto your name. -[1727.62 --> 1730.18] I invite you to be seated. -[1730.18 --> 1731.02] Thank you. -[1731.02 --> 1752.26] My husband tells me I'm still shrinking and I can't reach this thing. -[1752.26 --> 1752.62] Amen. -[1752.62 --> 1752.92] Amen. -[1752.92 --> 1753.08] Amen. -[1753.08 --> 1753.52] Amen. -[1753.52 --> 1753.62] Amen. -[1753.62 --> 1753.80] Amen. -[1753.80 --> 1753.90] Amen. -[1753.90 --> 1755.96] Amen. -[1756.04 --> 1759.16] Today's offerings are for the Budget and the Gateway of Hope. -[1759.16 --> 1766.18] It is a ministry of the Salvation Army of Canada, serving the city and township of Langley. -[1766.18 --> 1772.10] Because of the love of Christ, their mission is to help the homeless and those at risk. -[1772.98 --> 1780.64] With material assistance and other crucial support in order to help them find hope and move forward. -[1781.42 --> 1787.68] They bring a dignified, person-centered and holistic approach to their work. -[1788.30 --> 1793.42] Meeting every individual with respect and without judgment or discrimination. -[1793.42 --> 1799.78] Their emergency shelter and meal center services run seven days a week. -[1800.82 --> 1808.24] They are always looking for volunteers without which they could not operate on a daily basis. -[1808.86 --> 1811.56] 2 Corinthians 9 says, -[1811.56 --> 1816.80] Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give. -[1817.34 --> 1822.62] Not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. -[1823.42 --> 1853.40] 1 Corinthians 9 says, -[1853.40 --> 1860.40] The still waters, you restore righteousness to me. -[1860.40 --> 1869.40] Though I walk through the valley, I will fear no evil thing. -[1869.40 --> 1876.40] For you are with me, and you comfort me. -[1876.40 --> 1883.40] Surely goodness, love and mercy will follow wherever I go. -[1883.40 --> 1892.40] Surely goodness, love and mercy will follow wherever I go. -[1892.40 --> 1896.40] Surely goodness, love and mercy will follow wherever I go. -[1896.40 --> 1905.80] Surely goodness, love and mercy will follow wherever I go. -[1908.38 --> 1916.40] Oh Lord, you are my shepherd, you make me light in fields of green. -[1916.40 --> 1925.58] You lead me by the still waters, you restore righteousness to me. -[1925.58 --> 1934.32] Though I walk through the valley, I will fear no evil thing. -[1934.64 --> 1941.58] For you are with me, and you are with me. -[1942.92 --> 1951.98] Surely goodness, love and mercy will follow wherever I go. -[1951.98 --> 1960.72] Surely goodness, love and mercy will follow wherever I go. -[1960.72 --> 1969.72] Surely goodness, love and mercy will follow wherever I go. -[1969.72 --> 1980.38] Oh Lord, you are my shepherd, you make me light in fields of green. -[1980.38 --> 1989.12] You lead me by the still waters, you restore righteousness to me. -[1989.12 --> 1998.30] Though I walk through the valley, I will fear no evil thing. -[1998.30 --> 2005.10] For you are with me, and you'll comfort me. -[2005.10 --> 2021.80] For you are my shepherd, you make me light in fields of green. -[2021.80 --> 2024.30] Sorry, I'm being attacked by my mask here. -[2027.10 --> 2037.54] So we are really excited, and we have the opportunity now to just take a moment and welcome some new members to our church family. -[2037.54 --> 2043.00] And so, can I invite Louise and John and Margaret? -[2043.50 --> 2044.42] John and Margaret, are you here? -[2044.48 --> 2046.16] I didn't see you before. -[2046.32 --> 2046.88] Oh, there we go. -[2046.96 --> 2047.28] Okay, good. -[2047.90 --> 2048.10] Whew. -[2048.94 --> 2050.74] Tried to catch you before, but I didn't get you. -[2051.24 --> 2052.60] You guys come on up to the front. -[2054.18 --> 2057.20] During this season of COVID, -[2057.20 --> 2062.30] COVID, there's all sorts of talk about what church membership is going to look like. -[2062.34 --> 2066.76] You can just come up here right onto the stage so the camera can see you for the people at home. -[2069.24 --> 2075.02] It's been hard, and there's been all sorts of conversations about what church looks like, what membership looks like, -[2075.02 --> 2080.24] and we haven't been immune to those hard conversations here, -[2081.02 --> 2086.36] and yet, we've also been blessed to experience some growth in that time. -[2086.36 --> 2089.68] And you guys represent some of that growth. -[2089.84 --> 2093.92] And so, we are excited to welcome you into our church family and into our fellowship. -[2094.56 --> 2099.96] And the way that we are doing that sort of thing here is by asking a couple questions, -[2100.46 --> 2104.18] wherein you guys just give a brief testimony of your faith in response to the questions. -[2104.24 --> 2105.22] I'm not asking you to talk. -[2105.66 --> 2107.98] I did say that to John, and he quickly said no. -[2110.08 --> 2116.32] Just as a way of expressing our shared faith and belief together. -[2116.36 --> 2122.96] And so, it's our hope and prayer that in this faith community, -[2122.96 --> 2125.08] your faith in God will be strengthened, -[2125.30 --> 2127.48] and that your love for Jesus will be grown, -[2127.62 --> 2132.10] and that here, you will find opportunity to serve in the Spirit -[2132.10 --> 2137.34] as you join with us in God's mission to this community and to the world. -[2138.04 --> 2140.14] As we welcome you into this church family, -[2140.14 --> 2145.24] we're going to ask you to affirm the faith that you have professed and been baptized into, -[2145.44 --> 2149.02] and your commitment to God's mission in and through us here. -[2149.58 --> 2152.18] To do so, I'm going to ask you three questions. -[2152.30 --> 2156.38] I will ask all three questions, and then just ask you to answer as we go. -[2156.70 --> 2159.14] When you answer, just speak into the microphone, -[2159.70 --> 2161.32] so that the people at home can hear you, -[2161.32 --> 2163.88] and everyone here as well. -[2164.98 --> 2168.74] First, do you believe in Jesus as your Savior and Lord, -[2168.86 --> 2173.42] and that in him alone is hope and freedom from sin found? -[2174.26 --> 2178.02] Second, do you believe that the Bible is the Word of God, -[2178.12 --> 2180.86] revealing his plan for redemption in Jesus Christ, -[2180.92 --> 2183.12] and that the preaching and teaching of Langley, -[2183.48 --> 2186.16] Emmanuel reflects this truth? -[2186.16 --> 2190.84] And then third, do you promise, with the help of the Holy Spirit, -[2190.96 --> 2194.68] to do all that you can to strengthen your relationship to Jesus -[2194.68 --> 2198.12] by being a part of the life of this church, -[2198.86 --> 2201.12] recognizing its authority and oversight, -[2201.34 --> 2205.20] and joining with us on mission for Jesus in this community, -[2205.50 --> 2207.46] in this city, and to the world? -[2208.56 --> 2210.30] Louise, what is your answer? -[2211.46 --> 2213.54] I do, with God's help. -[2213.54 --> 2214.30] Amen. -[2215.34 --> 2216.04] John and Margaret. -[2216.36 --> 2217.06] What is your answer? -[2219.86 --> 2221.32] We do, with God's help. -[2222.16 --> 2223.02] She answered for me. -[2223.24 --> 2224.74] She answered for you, smart man. -[2229.36 --> 2232.74] I'm going to ask, if you are a member here, -[2232.80 --> 2234.98] or a regular worship peer here, or you attend here, -[2235.02 --> 2237.30] if you consider yourself part of the church family, -[2237.58 --> 2238.20] would you stand? -[2238.66 --> 2239.92] And kids, that includes you. -[2243.96 --> 2245.08] We're going to do the same, -[2245.08 --> 2247.30] as they have made a promise to us, -[2247.30 --> 2248.88] we are going to promise to them. -[2248.94 --> 2250.14] And so I'm going to ask you a question, -[2250.24 --> 2251.62] and I just invite you to respond, -[2252.04 --> 2253.78] we do, with God's help. -[2254.34 --> 2256.56] And so do you, church family of Langley, -[2256.64 --> 2259.32] Emmanuel, promise to embrace these people -[2259.32 --> 2261.88] as part of our family of God, -[2262.04 --> 2263.76] and serving them, -[2263.82 --> 2265.28] and serving with them, -[2265.28 --> 2266.88] as the Spirit moves? -[2266.88 --> 2267.68] What is your answer? -[2267.68 --> 2267.70] What is your answer? -[2270.90 --> 2272.44] We do, with God's help. -[2272.54 --> 2273.44] We do, God's helping us. -[2273.48 --> 2275.42] There's some legacy CRC people in the room. -[2275.76 --> 2276.36] I love it. -[2277.50 --> 2279.28] Thank you all very much, -[2279.28 --> 2281.38] and congratulations to you guys. -[2281.38 --> 2284.14] I encourage you, following the service, -[2284.52 --> 2286.02] if you haven't introduced yourself -[2286.02 --> 2287.56] to any of these three, -[2287.66 --> 2288.24] to do so. -[2288.56 --> 2289.36] Be responsible, -[2289.80 --> 2292.76] and gauge people's own assessment -[2292.76 --> 2294.50] of their risk in physical distancing, -[2294.68 --> 2295.20] and the like, -[2295.32 --> 2298.24] but welcome them into our fellowship. -[2298.56 --> 2299.30] And to you three, -[2299.76 --> 2300.36] God bless, -[2300.78 --> 2301.36] and welcome. -[2301.36 --> 2313.50] As the kids are making their way up, -[2314.02 --> 2316.06] I just want to throw this out there. -[2316.18 --> 2317.86] If you have been worshiping with us, -[2317.86 --> 2319.76] and you want to have a conversation -[2319.76 --> 2321.14] about membership, -[2321.42 --> 2323.28] or joining more closely with our fellowship, -[2323.46 --> 2324.78] and if you've been doing that online, -[2324.88 --> 2325.52] from a distance, -[2326.08 --> 2327.64] please go to our website. -[2327.92 --> 2329.80] You can find our contact information there, -[2329.92 --> 2330.74] mine specifically, -[2330.74 --> 2331.76] reach out, -[2331.82 --> 2332.48] and we can talk, -[2332.60 --> 2334.92] and see what God has in store for all of us. -[2335.26 --> 2335.62] Thank you. -[2339.64 --> 2340.68] Good morning, everybody. -[2341.02 --> 2342.48] I didn't have to ask you to come up. -[2342.48 --> 2342.76] So, -[2344.12 --> 2345.18] today in kids, -[2345.44 --> 2347.38] in children's worship time, -[2347.50 --> 2350.30] we're going to talk about something called faith. -[2350.66 --> 2352.70] I'm wondering if any of you can tell me -[2352.70 --> 2353.96] what that word means. -[2354.16 --> 2355.66] You've probably heard it at church, -[2355.94 --> 2356.66] at home. -[2357.22 --> 2358.50] Does anyone know what faith means? -[2358.98 --> 2359.68] What do you think, Zoe? -[2359.68 --> 2360.16] Um, -[2360.68 --> 2362.92] believing in God. -[2363.24 --> 2364.04] Believing in God. -[2365.36 --> 2366.92] Anyone else have any ideas? -[2367.50 --> 2367.96] Yep, Caleb. -[2369.30 --> 2369.66] Trusting. -[2370.42 --> 2371.10] Good answers. -[2371.18 --> 2371.28] Now, -[2371.36 --> 2372.04] I have a question. -[2372.18 --> 2374.98] Can you have faith in the wrong thing? -[2376.08 --> 2376.44] No? -[2376.60 --> 2376.80] Okay, -[2376.86 --> 2378.42] I'm going to give you a little demonstration. -[2379.18 --> 2379.52] So, -[2379.62 --> 2380.02] Ruby, -[2380.18 --> 2380.76] can you help me? -[2382.32 --> 2382.68] Okay, -[2382.86 --> 2383.64] this is my question. -[2383.76 --> 2383.92] So, -[2383.98 --> 2385.28] I'm going to give you two scenarios, -[2385.42 --> 2386.36] and you're going to tell me -[2386.36 --> 2387.66] which one makes more sense. -[2388.28 --> 2388.50] So, -[2388.60 --> 2388.78] Ruby, -[2388.84 --> 2390.60] I want you to stand right here. -[2391.20 --> 2391.96] Turn and face me. -[2395.64 --> 2396.04] Okay, -[2396.30 --> 2396.60] now, -[2396.72 --> 2398.10] I'm going to do something really fun. -[2398.56 --> 2399.88] I'm going to jump off, -[2400.14 --> 2401.94] and Ruby is going to catch me. -[2402.52 --> 2402.82] Okay? -[2402.82 --> 2404.98] I have faith that she can do this. -[2405.06 --> 2405.38] I really, -[2405.50 --> 2406.22] I think she can. -[2406.58 --> 2408.64] I trust that she's not going to want me to fall. -[2408.72 --> 2409.18] I'm going to jump, -[2409.24 --> 2410.12] and she's going to catch me. -[2410.56 --> 2410.78] Okay? -[2411.10 --> 2411.68] Who thinks, -[2411.78 --> 2412.90] who thinks I should try that? -[2416.14 --> 2416.50] Yeah? -[2416.68 --> 2417.38] Do you think so? -[2418.06 --> 2418.42] Okay, -[2418.58 --> 2418.74] now, -[2418.82 --> 2419.78] let's try something else. -[2421.14 --> 2421.50] Now, -[2421.60 --> 2421.78] Ruby, -[2421.82 --> 2422.80] I want you to come up here. -[2422.80 --> 2423.28] Okay, -[2423.28 --> 2426.34] now, -[2426.44 --> 2427.10] I'm going to ask, -[2427.46 --> 2428.18] if Ruby jumped, -[2428.28 --> 2429.36] to jump off of this, -[2429.88 --> 2430.86] and I will catch her. -[2431.36 --> 2432.20] Who thinks that? -[2432.40 --> 2432.76] Does she, -[2432.90 --> 2433.06] Ruby, -[2433.12 --> 2434.18] do you have faith that if you jump, -[2434.24 --> 2434.80] I'll catch you? -[2435.34 --> 2435.70] Yeah? -[2435.96 --> 2437.06] She has faith that I'll catch you. -[2437.08 --> 2438.14] Do you think that makes sense? -[2438.98 --> 2439.38] Yeah? -[2440.30 --> 2440.68] Okay, -[2440.70 --> 2441.30] you can jump down. -[2442.58 --> 2444.40] I can't really catch you with one hand, -[2444.50 --> 2445.62] but with two hands, -[2445.68 --> 2446.02] I would. -[2446.68 --> 2446.98] So, -[2447.18 --> 2448.92] can you have faith in something -[2448.92 --> 2449.84] that isn't, -[2449.94 --> 2451.08] doesn't really make sense? -[2451.98 --> 2452.38] Yeah, -[2452.38 --> 2452.76] like, -[2453.00 --> 2453.50] you can, -[2453.88 --> 2454.06] right? -[2454.10 --> 2456.08] If I really believe that Ruby will catch me, -[2456.12 --> 2456.66] and I jump, -[2457.22 --> 2458.12] and I smush her, -[2458.72 --> 2461.10] that wasn't really a good idea to have faith in that, -[2461.70 --> 2461.98] right? -[2462.72 --> 2463.12] But, -[2463.24 --> 2464.86] if Ruby has faith that I'll catch her, -[2464.92 --> 2466.38] because she knows she can trust me, -[2466.44 --> 2467.80] and that I'm strong enough to catch her, -[2467.86 --> 2469.60] then that's a good place to put our faith. -[2470.26 --> 2470.66] So, -[2470.76 --> 2472.70] we're going to talk about having faith in Jesus, -[2473.36 --> 2476.66] and I think you all would agree that that's a good place to put our faith. -[2476.90 --> 2479.18] And we have two examples in our story today, -[2479.18 --> 2481.40] of people who also showed that in the Bible. -[2481.40 --> 2482.22] So, -[2482.30 --> 2483.14] let's pray together, -[2483.34 --> 2484.48] and then we'll do the blessing. -[2485.90 --> 2486.58] Lord Jesus, -[2486.72 --> 2488.96] we thank you so much that we can have faith in you, -[2489.10 --> 2490.26] that we can trust you, -[2490.60 --> 2492.34] and that you are our God. -[2492.86 --> 2493.96] Please open our hearts, -[2494.10 --> 2494.96] and our ears, -[2495.08 --> 2495.88] and our eyes, -[2495.94 --> 2497.32] as we learn more about you, -[2497.86 --> 2499.02] in children's worship time, -[2499.06 --> 2499.82] and in church today. -[2500.12 --> 2500.38] Amen. -[2500.38 --> 2502.56] All right. -[2502.64 --> 2502.74] So, -[2502.80 --> 2504.28] I invite everyone to stand up. -[2506.72 --> 2508.06] We're going to face this way. -[2511.28 --> 2511.68] Ready? -[2511.68 --> 2511.74] Ready? -[2512.80 --> 2515.12] The Lord is in the air. -[2515.84 --> 2516.56] Amen. -[2516.56 --> 2516.70] Amen. -[2516.70 --> 2516.80] Amen. -[2516.80 --> 2517.16] Amen. -[2517.16 --> 2517.30] Amen. -[2517.30 --> 2517.36] Amen. -[2517.36 --> 2517.38] Amen. -[2517.38 --> 2518.38] Amen. -[2518.38 --> 2519.38] Amen. -[2519.38 --> 2520.38] Amen. -[2520.38 --> 2521.38] Amen. -[2521.38 --> 2522.38] Amen. -[2522.38 --> 2523.38] Amen. -[2523.38 --> 2524.38] Amen. -[2524.38 --> 2525.38] Amen. -[2525.38 --> 2526.38] Amen. -[2526.38 --> 2527.38] Amen. -[2527.38 --> 2528.38] Amen. -[2528.38 --> 2529.38] Amen. -[2529.38 --> 2530.36] Amen. -[2530.38 --> 2531.38] Amen. -[2539.18 --> 2539.58] Amen. -[2539.58 --> 2539.76] Amen. -[2539.76 --> 2540.28] Amen. -[2540.28 --> 2540.46] Amen. -[2540.46 --> 2540.82] Amen. -[2540.82 --> 2541.88] Good morning, everybody. -[2542.48 --> 2543.32] My name is Ken. -[2543.32 --> 2544.94] I'm an elder here at Emmanuel, -[2545.18 --> 2548.96] and I have the privilege of leading you in our church family prayer, -[2549.12 --> 2550.84] so let's go to God together. -[2553.30 --> 2554.76] Merciful God and Heavenly Father, -[2555.48 --> 2557.56] Lord, you are worthy of all thanks and praise. -[2558.18 --> 2559.86] We come to you now as your people. -[2560.38 --> 2569.52] We come to this place to sing praise to you, to worship you, to be with each other, and to hear from you, to listen to your word preached. -[2570.12 --> 2579.82] It is a wonderful gift we have to come here every Sunday, or to hear from you from our living rooms, depending on the circumstances, and we thank you for it. -[2580.44 --> 2586.20] We praise you for this gift of freedom we have as a country in Canada, to serve you without fear of persecution. -[2587.20 --> 2589.86] We pray for those around the world who do not have this freedom. -[2590.38 --> 2592.64] Those who are persecuted for your namesake. -[2593.54 --> 2599.18] Those who continue to gather for worship and study, even though they can face severe penalties or even death. -[2599.88 --> 2603.22] Keep them strong in you, that they may continue to fight the battle of faith. -[2604.70 --> 2607.92] Father, another week has passed, in which so many things of life have happened. -[2608.26 --> 2610.42] Work, school, all kinds of activities. -[2611.16 --> 2614.20] People moving, people traveling, sporting events, and the like. -[2615.08 --> 2618.74] For some, it was a typical busy week with certain joys and happiness abounding. -[2618.74 --> 2624.98] For others, it was a hard week, a struggle to make it through, a fight of mental or physical pain. -[2625.90 --> 2634.12] Father, we think of Miriam Visser, who is experiencing symptoms similar to the seizures again, and is waiting for a treatment plan from the doctors. -[2634.12 --> 2643.12] We pray for answers to Miriam's symptoms, and for a quick process and turnaround in her symptoms, and peace during anxious moments while waiting. -[2644.28 --> 2647.68] We pray for those who are continuing to mourn the loss of loved ones. -[2648.46 --> 2655.28] Grant them comfort and peace in the nearness of Christ through the fellowship of the church family in the days and weeks ahead. -[2655.28 --> 2662.40] Father, comfort those who are elderly, those who are lonely, those whose days and weeks are not so easy, -[2662.92 --> 2667.16] not filled with the joy of life, but rather filled with worry, pain, suffering, and struggle. -[2668.04 --> 2671.58] You are the only true peace on earth, and we pray for your nearness to them. -[2673.02 --> 2675.78] We pray for Jared Alcoma, who is traveling to Costa Rica, -[2676.12 --> 2680.38] to serve with Capenray in a leadership development and mission program for the next four months. -[2680.38 --> 2683.90] May you bless him and use him to further your kingdom work. -[2685.88 --> 2688.12] Father, we pray for this CRC denomination, -[2688.58 --> 2692.72] as there will be a conversation about leadership and direction on a national level. -[2693.42 --> 2696.52] We pray for your blessing on the plans that come out of this conversation. -[2697.64 --> 2701.44] And we also pray that you will provide a new executive director for the denomination. -[2702.22 --> 2706.80] We pray for Pastor Chris, as he heads up the committee which is tasked with finding this new person, -[2707.42 --> 2709.06] and that you will bless him in his work there. -[2709.06 --> 2715.88] Father, we give thanks to you for your healing mercies in the lives of Kevin and Colleen Breedveld. -[2716.76 --> 2719.68] Even though they were in a car crash and suffered critical injuries, -[2719.94 --> 2722.38] they were both able to go home and receive care there. -[2723.10 --> 2728.22] We pray for continued patience and perseverance as they continue to heal both physically and emotionally. -[2729.86 --> 2735.78] We also give thanks to you this day for the new memberships of Luis Condos and John and Margaret Struick. -[2735.78 --> 2741.46] We pray for them, that they will feel at home here, that they will be active and living members of this congregation, -[2742.26 --> 2746.38] and that we, as a congregation, may make them feel welcome and loved here. -[2748.04 --> 2750.72] Father, continue to watch over your church here in Murrayville. -[2751.38 --> 2754.74] Be with the leadership of this church and the council. -[2755.16 --> 2760.92] Be with every committee, Bible study, care group, and any other gatherings of this church for the benefit of your people. -[2760.92 --> 2766.54] Be with Pastor Chris this morning as he brings us your word. -[2767.16 --> 2771.36] Give him your strength and spirit as we learn more about how to live in your will and way. -[2772.14 --> 2775.58] Be with us this day and grant us all a day of peace and rest in you. -[2776.32 --> 2778.62] We pray all of this in Jesus' name. Amen. -[2778.62 --> 2779.62] Amen. -[2779.62 --> 2780.62] Amen. -[2780.62 --> 2781.62] Amen. -[2781.62 --> 2782.62] Amen. -[2808.62 --> 2809.60] Good morning. -[2809.74 --> 2815.42] We are continuing with our look at the book of Exodus. -[2817.34 --> 2823.08] If you're visiting with us or if you haven't been here for a while or if you're just checking us out online for the first time, -[2823.66 --> 2828.38] we've been looking at this, the second book of the Bible, the book of Exodus, -[2829.56 --> 2832.42] which is part of what's called the Old Testament. -[2832.42 --> 2838.76] Old Testament means that it records the history of redemption that took place before the coming -[2838.76 --> 2846.02] of Jesus. Exodus is also part of the Pentateuch which is the first five books of the Bible that -[2846.02 --> 2852.54] sometimes called the Torah so just to get us situated there. Bible begins in the book of -[2852.54 --> 2859.00] Genesis and at the end of Genesis God's people the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob are -[2859.00 --> 2865.42] living in Egypt because of a famine in the land of Canaan where they were previously situated. -[2866.26 --> 2873.38] Joseph, one of the sons of Jacob, has become a leader in Egypt and God provides for his family -[2873.38 --> 2880.22] through him. Now fast forward between the end of Genesis and the beginning of Exodus some 400 years -[2880.22 --> 2888.14] passes and the king of Egypt called Pharaoh has forgotten Joseph and the history that came before. -[2889.00 --> 2895.02] And all through that time the Israelites have been incredibly fruitful and have multiplied. They -[2895.02 --> 2904.22] have grown to a huge group of people. Scared of their size, Pharaoh orders the death of all the newborn -[2904.22 --> 2915.64] boys in attempt to stem the tide of population growth. Now one boy escapes genocide. He ends up being -[2915.64 --> 2924.94] rescued by Pharaoh's daughter raised in the palace as a prince of Egypt yet he is an Israelite. This boy -[2924.94 --> 2933.06] Moses grows up and then one day while touring the lands he sees an Egyptian guard beating an Israelite -[2933.06 --> 2938.68] slave and he intervenes and he kills that guard and so fearing for his life because Pharaoh has -[2938.68 --> 2946.76] found out he flees into the wilderness. Now there in the wilderness he protects a group of women who were -[2946.76 --> 2952.52] trying to draw water. They were taking care of their father's sheep. He eventually marries one of those women -[2952.52 --> 2960.86] named Zipporah and for 40 years Moses shepherds the flocks of Jethro, his father-in-law. While he is doing -[2960.86 --> 2966.78] that work is when he encountered God in the burning bush. That's the text that Pastor Kevin led us in -[2966.78 --> 2973.58] last week if he was here. At the end of that text where God tells Moses, commissions him to go and -[2973.58 --> 2981.04] speak to Pharaoh, he complains to God that he can't do it and so God gives him a promise that he would go -[2981.04 --> 2986.52] with him one and that he would send with him Aaron, right? God gives the Holy Spirit and he gives a -[2986.52 --> 2995.82] community wherein we can work out our calling through. So Moses goes back to Egypt perhaps reluctantly -[2995.82 --> 3002.98] to tell Pharaoh to let the people go so that they might worship God and you'll remember that that -[3002.98 --> 3012.34] God's people worshiping him rightly is a central theme of the book of Exodus. Now Pharaoh however -[3012.34 --> 3019.38] does not care and he doesn't like the idea. He wants to keep the people working and to not -[3019.38 --> 3027.26] be distracted. And so as we read today from the end of chapter 5, let me set that context before we -[3027.26 --> 3035.50] dig in. I'm going to look quickly at verse 6 before we read the text that will be on the screen. -[3036.96 --> 3042.54] That same day Pharaoh gave this order to the slave drivers and overseers in charge of the people. -[3042.54 --> 3048.98] You are no longer to supply the people with straw for making bricks. Let them go gather their own -[3048.98 --> 3055.52] straw but require them to make the same number of bricks as before. Do not reduce the quota. They are -[3055.52 --> 3062.32] lazy. That's why they're crying out. Let us go and sacrifice to our God. Make the work harder for the -[3062.32 --> 3070.90] people so that they keep working and pay no attention to lies. Now eventually the Israelite leaders in the -[3070.90 --> 3077.96] community and the overseers, they go to plea with Pharaoh in order to make their work easier again -[3077.96 --> 3083.84] but Pharaoh doubles down and he keeps the work hard for them and the quota the same. And so those leaders -[3083.84 --> 3092.12] having failed with Pharaoh go find Moses and Aaron and then they say, verse 21, -[3092.12 --> 3100.18] may the Lord look on you and judge you. You have made us obnoxious to Pharaoh and his officials have -[3100.18 --> 3108.36] put a sword in their hand to kill us. And so in that big story and then that little context we come to -[3108.36 --> 3116.40] the text of our focus today starting in verse 22 of chapter 5. I encourage you to read along with me. -[3116.40 --> 3125.76] Moses, remember having been queued out by the leaders, Moses returned to the Lord and said, -[3127.20 --> 3135.08] why Lord, why have you brought trouble on this people? Is this why you sent me? Ever since I went -[3135.08 --> 3141.92] to Pharaoh to speak in your name, he has brought trouble to this people and you have not rescued your -[3141.92 --> 3151.72] people at all. Then the Lord said to Moses, now you will see what I will do to Pharaoh because of my -[3151.72 --> 3158.14] mighty hand, he will let them go because of my mighty hand, he will drive them out of his country. -[3159.94 --> 3170.30] God also said to Moses, I am the Lord. I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac, to Jacob as God almighty, -[3170.30 --> 3178.76] but by my name, the Lord, I did not make myself fully known to them. I also established my covenant -[3178.76 --> 3187.98] with them to give them the land of Canaan where they resided as foreigners. Moreover, I have heard -[3187.98 --> 3195.38] the groaning of the Israelites whom the Egyptians are enslaving. I have remembered my covenant. -[3195.38 --> 3206.72] Therefore, say to the Israelites, I am the Lord and I will bring you out from under the yoke of the -[3206.72 --> 3213.22] Egyptians. I will free you from being slaves to them and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm -[3213.22 --> 3221.84] and with mighty acts of judgment. I will take you as my own people and I will be your God. Then you -[3221.84 --> 3227.50] will know that I am the Lord, your God who brought you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians and I -[3227.50 --> 3233.22] will bring you to the land I swore with uplifted hand to give to Abraham, to Isaac and to Jacob. -[3233.56 --> 3242.90] I will give it to you as a possession. I am the Lord. Moses reported this to the Israelites, -[3243.48 --> 3248.28] but they did not listen to him because of their discouragement and harsh labor. -[3248.28 --> 3258.18] The Lord said to Moses, go tell Pharaoh, king of Egypt, to let the Israelites go out of this country. -[3258.98 --> 3266.20] But Moses said to the Lord, if the Israelites will not listen to me, why would Pharaoh listen to me -[3266.20 --> 3272.76] since I speak with faltering lips? This is the word of the Lord. -[3278.28 --> 3287.48] So we're at the point in the story where things go from bad to worse. And when they go from bad to -[3287.48 --> 3295.36] worse, the people blame Moses. And then what's more, Moses, as their leader, takes on their own -[3295.36 --> 3302.42] frustration as his own and then he directs that frustration at God. And now it's God's response -[3302.42 --> 3309.94] to Moses and his frustration that we're going to look at and focus on today. What I hope you will -[3309.94 --> 3316.98] see is that God shows us that God's covenant identity and his covenant promises are a source -[3316.98 --> 3324.58] of strength and encouragement when things go from bad to worse, right? When things seem to be falling -[3324.58 --> 3333.72] apart around you, look to God's covenant identity, to who he is, to his covenant promises, right? What he does -[3333.72 --> 3341.98] and says that he will do. When your life is in chaos after chaos after chaos, right? It is the person, -[3342.14 --> 3349.56] the nature and character, and it is the activity of God in the world that can buoy you through, -[3349.56 --> 3355.46] right? He is our refuge and strength, says the psalmist, and ever-present help in times of trouble. -[3357.12 --> 3363.54] And so we'll get there. But before we get there, I want to start with something from Moses. -[3364.68 --> 3375.04] Now notice how Moses receives the anxiety of the Israelite leaders and then makes it his own, -[3375.04 --> 3382.72] right? You had me, we started in 21, may the Lord look on you and judge you. You have made us obnoxious -[3382.72 --> 3390.00] to Pharaoh. And then that leads to Moses in verse 22 saying, why have you brought trouble on this? Is -[3390.00 --> 3397.66] this why you sent me here? Ever since I went to tell Pharaoh to speak to in your name, he's brought -[3397.66 --> 3402.58] trouble on these people and you have not rescued your people at all. -[3402.58 --> 3414.82] Here is a man who stood before a bush ablaze but wouldn't be consumed. And here is a man to whom -[3414.82 --> 3423.58] the voice of God spoke audibly out of that bush to him. Here is the man whom God revealed his very -[3423.58 --> 3437.40] covenant name, Yahweh, I am, I am who I am, to. And yet, he gives in to their anxiety and he makes it his own. -[3439.16 --> 3443.96] And let me be clear, right? Because Moses isn't afraid of conflict. -[3446.14 --> 3450.90] Moses killed an Egyptian slave driver with his bare hands when that slave driver was beating another -[3450.90 --> 3457.06] Israelite, right? Moses intervened and protected the family of Zipporah when shepherds came and were -[3457.06 --> 3465.38] mistreating them, right? He's not afraid to get in people's faces. And I think it's important to remember -[3465.38 --> 3473.56] that fact about Moses, that he's not afraid of conflict when he gives his excuses of not being a -[3473.56 --> 3481.96] good speaker. Because he is a fighter, right? He's not a coward. He's a leader. I want to suggest that -[3481.96 --> 3488.56] maybe his excuses are more about his own fears or his own anxiety, either adopted or from within, -[3489.20 --> 3499.72] than it is the reality of his stammering tongue. And he does the same thing here, right? He doesn't lead -[3499.72 --> 3508.50] in the face of the people's anxiety. He takes it on. He makes it his own. And so just quickly, I want to -[3508.50 --> 3514.26] talk to you people who are here and listening right now who are leaders, right? Whether you are a leader -[3514.26 --> 3520.14] in church or at work or in school or if school is your work, whether you are a leader on a board -[3520.14 --> 3525.52] somewhere or if you are in public service or an elected official or whether you are leaders in your -[3525.52 --> 3536.40] neighborhood. Good leaders don't take on the anxiety of their people. Let me say that again. Good leaders -[3536.40 --> 3543.16] don't take on the anxiety of the people that they are leading. Now, you represent them and you articulate -[3543.16 --> 3550.32] those anxieties and you be present with the people who are experiencing those anxieties. But if you are a -[3550.32 --> 3558.64] leader, it is your job somehow to stand above their anxiety, right? You can't manage other people's anxieties. -[3559.96 --> 3568.18] Now, sometimes we think that we can lessen a person's experience of anxiety by taking it from them and -[3568.18 --> 3576.14] putting it on our own shoulders, right? That somehow we are then sharing the load. But that doesn't actually -[3576.14 --> 3582.98] have the effect of lessening the anxiety. It just spreads it out more, right? It makes it more pervasive. -[3584.94 --> 3591.84] I did a leadership training course a few years ago and the course spanned six years of my life. -[3592.88 --> 3597.82] And one of the tenets, one of the sort of principles of that leadership training program -[3597.82 --> 3603.82] was this statement, this axiom. It said, anxiety makes you stupid. -[3603.82 --> 3612.56] Is someone applauding over there? Because that's absolutely the case. Anxiety makes you stupid. And -[3612.56 --> 3617.84] you don't realize just how stupid you are when you are anxious because you can't see it. -[3619.46 --> 3624.72] Now, to be clear, when I say this, I'm talking about the anxiety that's common to us all. I'm not -[3624.72 --> 3630.66] talking about generalized anxiety disorder. I'm not talking about other anxiety disorders that will -[3630.66 --> 3635.42] have different roots and different treatments and I will leave those roots and treatments to good, -[3635.72 --> 3641.90] faithful counselors and psychologists. Talking about the anxiety that exists in our system. -[3643.28 --> 3648.82] When you're anxious about something, you're not thinking clearly. When you're anxious about -[3648.82 --> 3654.44] something, you can't see the bigger picture because whatever is in front of you is all consuming. -[3654.44 --> 3664.48] A good leader will learn how to recognize and manage her own anxiety and be a non-anxious presence in the -[3664.48 --> 3673.10] midst of high anxiety and high tension. And so leaders, hear this. You cannot take away other people's -[3673.10 --> 3679.56] anxieties. All you can do is manage your own in the midst of that tension. -[3679.56 --> 3692.44] But managing your own anxiety will have the effect of canceling out or of making less the anxiety of -[3692.44 --> 3699.22] those around you, right? Of those whom you are leading. And so as we dig into this text, let me start -[3699.22 --> 3707.54] with this. Leaders don't be like Moses. Don't borrow worry or anxiety from people around you. -[3707.54 --> 3714.36] Second, look at what Moses does with his anxiety. -[3718.00 --> 3721.40] Why, Lord? Why have you brought trouble on this people? -[3723.44 --> 3733.48] Lord, right? He prays. He goes to God, right? God wants your frustration. He wants your anxiety. God wants -[3733.48 --> 3738.42] you to come to him with the whole gamut of your emotional realities. -[3740.42 --> 3744.52] And sometimes we go around thinking, -[3744.86 --> 3748.60] oh, you can't talk to God like that. -[3749.34 --> 3752.28] You can't be angry at God. That's not respectful. -[3752.62 --> 3754.98] That's not the way you talk to the creator of the world. -[3755.20 --> 3758.56] And look, I get the intent behind that, right? -[3758.56 --> 3762.24] Or at least I can come up with a charitable interpretation that makes it understandable. -[3763.44 --> 3764.48] But here's the thing. -[3765.48 --> 3774.80] It is important. It is critical that you go to God with your anger or anxiety or worries or doubts -[3774.80 --> 3780.38] or questions or frustrations rather than ignore him or hide from him, right? -[3780.38 --> 3786.18] Especially if you're keeping those feelings from God because of some wrong sense of piety. -[3788.18 --> 3793.18] Your frustration, no matter how great it is, will not frustrate God. -[3794.64 --> 3796.98] Right? God won't take on your anxiety. -[3798.22 --> 3799.76] His shoulders are big enough. -[3800.14 --> 3802.42] He can hear it. He can assess it with you. -[3802.50 --> 3805.08] And he can give it back, maybe transformed or diminished. -[3805.08 --> 3810.60] Right? God is bigger than your fear and he wants to hear from you in the midst of it. -[3811.48 --> 3816.72] God is actually inviting you to take the fullness of who you are, -[3817.24 --> 3818.72] whatever that is, right? -[3818.78 --> 3822.14] Your fears and your dreams, your hopes and your failures, your struggles and your worries, -[3822.26 --> 3825.90] your joys and your successes, all your identity questions, -[3826.22 --> 3828.86] all of who you are, the fullness of who you are, -[3828.86 --> 3834.02] God wants to hear from you so that you can bring it to the fullness of who he is. -[3835.08 --> 3839.94] He is the right one to go to with your anxiety. -[3841.08 --> 3843.84] And so on the one hand, we said, leaders, don't be like Moses. -[3844.04 --> 3848.32] Don't worry or don't borrow worry and anxiety from the people around you, -[3848.34 --> 3849.54] from the system that you are in. -[3849.76 --> 3852.26] And yet also be like Moses. -[3853.56 --> 3856.86] Go to God when you have anxieties and frustrations. -[3856.86 --> 3862.58] Cry out to him as the only one who can do anything about everything in your life. -[3862.58 --> 3871.54] And then allow God to hold your own heart back to you, -[3871.62 --> 3873.90] to hold your own words back to you. -[3874.02 --> 3880.00] Allow God to expose the truth of your anxiety to the truth of his gospel. -[3880.00 --> 3884.26] So let's do that together with Moses' words. -[3885.20 --> 3887.92] Why, Lord, have you brought trouble on this people? -[3888.24 --> 3889.58] Is that why you sent me? -[3890.42 --> 3892.94] Ever since I went back to Pharaoh to speak in your name, -[3893.08 --> 3898.20] he has brought trouble on this people and you have not rescued their people at all. -[3898.38 --> 3900.32] Ever since I went to Pharaoh. -[3900.32 --> 3903.72] I mean, he just did go to Pharaoh. -[3905.00 --> 3905.42] Right? -[3905.46 --> 3910.20] But he elevates, he exaggerates, he makes it bigger and he makes it more pressing. -[3910.38 --> 3913.48] And anxiety has a tendency to do that to us. -[3914.74 --> 3915.22] Right? -[3915.28 --> 3918.58] We take significant things, but we inflate them. -[3919.68 --> 3923.00] We take less significant things and we make them more than they are. -[3923.00 --> 3930.78] He has brought trouble on all his people and you have not rescued your people at all. -[3932.40 --> 3937.02] Moses wanted immediate action. -[3940.14 --> 3946.00] Most of us, when we are facing a trial or a struggle that brings anxiety or fear or worry, -[3946.20 --> 3948.44] we want immediate action. -[3948.44 --> 3958.20] Moses couldn't see or his anxiety wouldn't let him see the bigger picture. -[3958.92 --> 3959.52] Right? -[3959.52 --> 3963.38] Or he forgot that there is a bigger plan of God here at work. -[3963.94 --> 3966.06] Yes, we've said it already, right? -[3966.16 --> 3971.12] This is about the people of Israel being able to worship God rightly. -[3971.88 --> 3977.04] But it's not ultimately about worshiping God in the wilderness outside of Egypt. -[3977.04 --> 3977.52] Right? -[3978.04 --> 3982.84] But it's about worshiping God in their home of God's promise back in Canaan. -[3983.30 --> 3983.42] Right? -[3983.50 --> 3985.64] Promise to Abraham and to Isaac and to Jacob. -[3985.90 --> 3989.42] This isn't about escaping Egypt for a weekend getaway. -[3990.78 --> 3996.92] This is about freedom to be and to become their own nation in their own land as their own people. -[3998.66 --> 4002.48] And what's more, and we'll come back to this more in a moment, right? -[4002.48 --> 4010.72] This is about setting up themes and types and shadows and patterns and historical circumstances that will ultimately culminate in Jesus, -[4011.14 --> 4013.42] God's ultimate plan for ultimate redemption. -[4013.90 --> 4014.02] Right? -[4014.06 --> 4016.66] That's at work in this story too. -[4020.68 --> 4025.76] You've heard me say it before, but it bears repeating over and over and over again. -[4025.76 --> 4029.72] God wants your anger and he wants your frustration. -[4029.90 --> 4032.20] He wants your anxiety and your worry. -[4032.60 --> 4037.04] Come to him in your rage and in your frustration and in prayer and in devotion. -[4037.86 --> 4040.36] But remember this. -[4040.36 --> 4054.00] If you want a God who is big enough to be angry at when things go wrong, he must also be big enough to have reasons that are beyond your comprehension. -[4056.14 --> 4056.62] Right? -[4056.66 --> 4065.72] If God is big enough to handle your pain, he must also be big enough to fill that pain full of purpose and meaning in his divine plan. -[4065.72 --> 4072.80] And yes, you may never know how this side of heaven, maybe even after. -[4073.64 --> 4076.52] But you can know that he has one. -[4077.26 --> 4078.62] And that it is good. -[4079.06 --> 4079.16] Right? -[4079.18 --> 4080.88] It is always good. -[4080.96 --> 4084.64] And that it is for your good and for his glory. -[4085.26 --> 4085.44] Right? -[4085.46 --> 4088.90] If our God is for us, who can be against us? -[4089.12 --> 4089.22] Right? -[4089.28 --> 4094.28] God works for good all things for those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. -[4094.28 --> 4105.46] And so maybe if today you are crying out for the immediate action of God in your anxiety or worry or fear, -[4105.82 --> 4110.64] maybe you need to hear that God's got you. -[4111.92 --> 4114.36] He will never leave you or forsake you. -[4114.36 --> 4127.28] But for him to be a God who's got you, he and thereby his action in the world must be bigger than your understanding. -[4128.96 --> 4131.02] He's got you no matter what. -[4132.88 --> 4137.64] But for that to be true, you also have to accept that you might not know how. -[4137.64 --> 4140.96] But he does. -[4144.96 --> 4148.20] And even though God is ultimately bigger than our understanding, -[4148.90 --> 4152.36] I also want to say that doesn't mean we don't have any understanding. -[4154.76 --> 4154.96] Right? -[4155.02 --> 4159.44] He makes sure to give us something while we wait. -[4160.06 --> 4160.20] Right? -[4160.20 --> 4169.10] He gives us his covenant name and his identity and his covenant promise. -[4170.02 --> 4172.90] So let's look at God's response to Moses then. -[4177.54 --> 4178.86] Chapter 6, verse 2. -[4179.38 --> 4180.04] God says, -[4180.04 --> 4183.78] I am the Lord. -[4186.38 --> 4189.00] I am the Lord. -[4190.14 --> 4191.36] And then in verse 6, -[4192.28 --> 4193.66] I am the Lord. -[4193.78 --> 4196.36] I will bring you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians. -[4197.50 --> 4201.68] And then he ends that whole section of his speech to Moses by saying, -[4201.90 --> 4204.52] I am the Lord. -[4204.52 --> 4209.12] There's something special. -[4210.20 --> 4210.56] God says, -[4210.68 --> 4211.46] I am the Lord. -[4211.56 --> 4212.36] In verse 3, -[4212.74 --> 4215.42] I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac, to Jacob as God Almighty, -[4215.56 --> 4217.76] but by my name, the Lord, -[4217.88 --> 4219.82] I did not make myself known to them. -[4220.10 --> 4224.04] There's something special about knowing God's name. -[4224.56 --> 4224.76] Right? -[4224.80 --> 4226.82] There's a personal aspect, -[4227.04 --> 4229.02] a depth of relationship. -[4229.02 --> 4234.70] To give someone your name is to give them access to you. -[4236.50 --> 4237.74] That's what God does. -[4238.34 --> 4240.10] He gives us his name. -[4240.22 --> 4242.28] And then he signs his name. -[4242.38 --> 4245.32] At the end of this list of promises in verse 8, -[4245.40 --> 4245.64] he says, -[4245.80 --> 4247.86] I am the Lord. -[4248.54 --> 4249.66] I am the Lord. -[4249.76 --> 4251.82] I will not give my glory to another. -[4251.92 --> 4252.58] Not to Pharaoh, -[4252.86 --> 4253.58] not to Egypt, -[4253.72 --> 4254.50] not to anxiety, -[4254.76 --> 4255.46] not to worry. -[4255.46 --> 4257.50] I am worth the weight, -[4257.66 --> 4259.26] W-A-I-T, -[4259.74 --> 4262.00] and I am worth the weight, -[4262.14 --> 4264.32] W-E-G-H-T, -[4264.48 --> 4266.02] W-E-I-G-H-T. -[4266.38 --> 4267.58] Spelling was never my strong suit. -[4269.26 --> 4269.44] Right? -[4269.50 --> 4270.46] I am worth the weight, -[4270.56 --> 4272.04] and I am worth the weight, -[4272.18 --> 4272.76] God says. -[4272.90 --> 4273.90] In Hebrew, -[4274.78 --> 4278.22] one of the words that is translated to English as glory -[4278.22 --> 4280.08] literally means weight, -[4280.86 --> 4282.06] literally means heavy. -[4283.04 --> 4283.24] Right? -[4283.24 --> 4287.30] God can handle the weight of whatever you put on him -[4287.30 --> 4290.06] because he is the ultimate weighty one. -[4290.78 --> 4293.94] He is the glorious one in whom is our delight. -[4294.18 --> 4298.26] His name matters because it is connected to his identity. -[4298.76 --> 4298.86] Right? -[4298.90 --> 4299.38] God says, -[4299.66 --> 4300.38] I am. -[4300.78 --> 4303.04] I am who I am. -[4303.14 --> 4304.82] What this reveals to us is, -[4305.18 --> 4307.14] Pastor Kevin led us in that, -[4307.22 --> 4309.82] is God's unchanging nature. -[4309.82 --> 4314.08] God is the same yesterday, -[4314.34 --> 4314.74] today, -[4314.74 --> 4315.74] and tomorrow. -[4315.94 --> 4317.70] In theological language, -[4318.00 --> 4320.14] we call this God's immutability, -[4320.70 --> 4323.02] his unmutatingness. -[4323.26 --> 4325.18] He does not change. -[4326.34 --> 4328.72] And this unchanging God -[4328.72 --> 4331.40] makes a promise to you. -[4331.82 --> 4333.52] I am says, -[4333.52 --> 4334.68] I will do. -[4336.24 --> 4337.98] I am says, -[4337.98 --> 4342.66] I have established my covenant with them -[4342.66 --> 4344.94] to give them the land of Canaan. -[4346.26 --> 4347.14] I am says, -[4347.28 --> 4349.48] I have remembered my covenant. -[4349.68 --> 4354.44] I have remembered my special promise of relationship to them. -[4354.52 --> 4354.82] And then, -[4355.60 --> 4358.28] in verse 6 through 8, -[4358.54 --> 4359.58] there's so many, -[4360.12 --> 4362.74] I will bring you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians. -[4362.74 --> 4365.00] I will free you from being slaves to them. -[4365.30 --> 4367.40] I will redeem you with an outstretched arm -[4367.40 --> 4368.48] and with mighty acts of judgment. -[4368.64 --> 4370.12] I will take you as my own people. -[4370.26 --> 4371.34] I will be your God. -[4371.66 --> 4374.40] I will bring you to the land I swore with uplifted hand -[4374.40 --> 4375.22] to give to Abraham, -[4375.36 --> 4375.68] to Isaac, -[4375.74 --> 4376.16] and to Jacob. -[4376.42 --> 4379.56] I will give it to you as a possession. -[4381.20 --> 4381.96] And now look, -[4382.02 --> 4383.14] let's pull it all together, -[4383.24 --> 4383.40] okay? -[4383.62 --> 4385.88] You take God's immutability, -[4386.40 --> 4388.10] his unchanging nature, -[4388.26 --> 4390.78] you take God's I am name, -[4390.78 --> 4393.98] and then you see that with his sovereign will, -[4394.12 --> 4395.16] his sovereign plan, -[4395.40 --> 4396.22] his promises, -[4396.76 --> 4396.94] right? -[4396.94 --> 4400.20] That he is big enough to have a bigger picture -[4400.20 --> 4401.96] than you are able to comprehend, -[4402.50 --> 4402.72] right? -[4402.74 --> 4403.86] And you put that all together, -[4404.00 --> 4406.76] that means God's promise of I will -[4406.76 --> 4409.16] is exactly the same as God saying, -[4409.16 --> 4410.70] it is done. -[4412.36 --> 4414.24] When God says I will, -[4414.56 --> 4415.58] he does. -[4415.74 --> 4417.00] It's a fact of history -[4417.00 --> 4418.98] that just hasn't yet been realized in history. -[4419.52 --> 4420.94] It hasn't yet been worked out -[4420.94 --> 4422.08] in the plan of God, -[4422.18 --> 4423.66] but it will happen. -[4423.82 --> 4425.00] It is guaranteed. -[4425.00 --> 4426.78] And look, -[4427.32 --> 4429.70] we actually as Christians -[4429.70 --> 4430.94] in the 21st century -[4430.94 --> 4432.02] are blessed in this. -[4432.14 --> 4434.02] We are three and a half millennia -[4434.02 --> 4435.72] removed from this story, -[4435.72 --> 4438.16] and we can actually see it as true. -[4439.78 --> 4439.88] Right? -[4439.90 --> 4441.54] And if you know this story, -[4442.04 --> 4444.66] or if this is new for you, -[4444.80 --> 4445.26] get ready, -[4445.38 --> 4447.54] because God does take his people -[4447.54 --> 4448.24] out of Egypt. -[4448.74 --> 4450.34] They do come into the land -[4450.34 --> 4451.88] and they are able to worship him. -[4452.22 --> 4452.42] Now, -[4452.76 --> 4454.16] anxiety still makes them stupid, -[4455.00 --> 4457.04] but they're just in good company. -[4458.42 --> 4460.22] But it's even deeper than that. -[4461.14 --> 4463.22] The picture becomes even more beautiful, -[4463.22 --> 4465.68] because this little story -[4465.68 --> 4467.10] is a microcosm -[4467.10 --> 4469.04] of the whole of humanity's story, -[4469.20 --> 4471.88] because this story gets us to Jesus. -[4472.36 --> 4474.54] Jesus comes to set you free -[4474.54 --> 4476.86] from slavery to sin and death. -[4476.86 --> 4479.08] Jesus comes to set us free -[4479.08 --> 4480.94] from this present darkness. -[4481.18 --> 4483.06] Jesus comes into this world -[4483.06 --> 4486.40] as the new and the true and better Moses -[4486.40 --> 4488.68] to redeem his people, -[4488.80 --> 4491.68] to carry them into the presence of the Father. -[4491.68 --> 4493.80] Jesus comes and lives the life -[4493.80 --> 4494.58] we should have lived, -[4494.66 --> 4497.70] but daily prove that we just cannot do, -[4497.78 --> 4499.56] because anxiety makes us stupid. -[4499.90 --> 4502.06] Jesus comes and died the death -[4502.06 --> 4503.36] that we deserve, -[4504.04 --> 4505.84] because we've given into fear -[4505.84 --> 4507.48] and worry and darkness. -[4507.48 --> 4512.68] in this great story, -[4513.68 --> 4516.14] on the cross, -[4516.94 --> 4519.38] God takes -[4519.38 --> 4523.04] the greatest evil -[4523.04 --> 4525.90] that the world had ever intended, -[4526.90 --> 4531.02] and he turns it into the greatest possible good -[4531.02 --> 4532.20] with the empty tomb. -[4532.70 --> 4534.72] The death of God becomes the means -[4534.72 --> 4538.06] by which his people are saved from death. -[4538.66 --> 4541.36] And if he can do that with sin and death, -[4541.84 --> 4543.96] surely, surely he can handle -[4543.96 --> 4545.98] your anxious circumstances. -[4546.48 --> 4547.42] Surely he can handle -[4547.42 --> 4549.18] whatever is giving you fear -[4549.18 --> 4551.96] or worry or concern right now. -[4557.62 --> 4559.10] And even that's not it. -[4559.10 --> 4562.66] Because you see, -[4563.14 --> 4566.98] that story's not yet done. -[4568.42 --> 4570.18] Because this same Jesus -[4570.18 --> 4571.76] who lived and died -[4571.76 --> 4574.00] and was ascended to the right hand -[4574.00 --> 4575.34] of God the Father Almighty -[4575.34 --> 4577.94] will come back. -[4578.74 --> 4579.94] He will come back -[4579.94 --> 4582.20] with the blast of the archangel's trumpet. -[4582.28 --> 4583.04] He will come back -[4583.04 --> 4584.64] marching with the armies of God -[4584.64 --> 4586.46] that have gone on before him. -[4586.52 --> 4587.20] He will come back -[4587.20 --> 4588.92] to renew this world, -[4589.08 --> 4591.18] to usher in the new creation, -[4591.54 --> 4593.08] to refine and redeem -[4593.08 --> 4594.20] all that is. -[4594.40 --> 4595.40] He will come back -[4595.40 --> 4596.76] and the dwelling place of God -[4596.76 --> 4598.00] will now be with man -[4598.00 --> 4599.20] and we will live with him -[4599.20 --> 4601.68] as face to face. -[4602.84 --> 4605.46] The story isn't done. -[4605.46 --> 4609.68] But it is done. -[4609.68 --> 4612.04] In that it is a fact. -[4613.66 --> 4616.06] Because of God's immutable nature, -[4616.72 --> 4618.00] you can be guaranteed -[4618.00 --> 4619.78] that the new creation -[4619.78 --> 4621.82] will come. -[4623.10 --> 4624.98] And so whatever it is -[4624.98 --> 4626.38] you are facing, -[4626.60 --> 4629.86] see the truth of God's covenant name, -[4629.96 --> 4631.66] the truth of who God is -[4631.66 --> 4632.58] as I am, -[4632.58 --> 4634.60] and see that in relationship -[4634.60 --> 4636.78] to God's covenant promises. -[4639.06 --> 4639.98] But no, -[4640.68 --> 4642.62] there is also -[4642.62 --> 4645.60] a practical warning here. -[4646.74 --> 4648.56] Or a practical concern -[4648.56 --> 4649.68] yet to note. -[4651.46 --> 4652.74] Moses reports -[4652.74 --> 4653.88] what God says -[4653.88 --> 4654.82] to the Israelites, -[4654.82 --> 4657.66] but they did not -[4657.66 --> 4658.60] listen to him -[4658.60 --> 4660.14] because of their -[4660.14 --> 4660.98] discouragement -[4660.98 --> 4662.94] and harsh labor. -[4666.52 --> 4669.08] As disciples of Jesus, -[4669.08 --> 4670.82] we have this -[4670.82 --> 4673.08] gospel message. -[4673.42 --> 4674.48] As disciples of Jesus, -[4674.68 --> 4675.34] we have this -[4675.34 --> 4676.16] responsibility -[4676.16 --> 4677.04] to proclaim -[4677.04 --> 4679.22] the truth of who God is -[4679.22 --> 4680.66] and what he has done -[4680.66 --> 4683.18] and what he will yet do. -[4683.18 --> 4687.32] we have -[4687.32 --> 4689.34] the deep -[4689.34 --> 4690.26] blessing -[4690.26 --> 4692.04] to preach -[4692.04 --> 4692.92] peace -[4692.92 --> 4695.50] to an anxious people -[4695.50 --> 4698.58] and yet -[4698.58 --> 4699.48] they may not hear. -[4700.46 --> 4701.64] They may not be able -[4701.64 --> 4701.98] to hear. -[4702.28 --> 4703.58] You may not -[4703.58 --> 4704.06] hear. -[4705.14 --> 4705.66] You may not -[4705.66 --> 4706.36] be able to hear. -[4707.96 --> 4708.78] And so, -[4709.72 --> 4710.12] leaders, -[4710.12 --> 4712.76] don't be like Moses, -[4713.56 --> 4714.46] but be like Moses. -[4714.72 --> 4715.14] And finally, -[4715.34 --> 4716.52] don't be like Moses -[4716.52 --> 4717.08] who says, -[4717.76 --> 4718.34] if the Israelites -[4718.34 --> 4719.32] will not listen to me, -[4719.86 --> 4720.60] why should Pharaoh -[4720.60 --> 4721.32] listen to me -[4721.32 --> 4722.44] since I speak -[4722.44 --> 4724.06] with faltering lips? -[4725.18 --> 4726.42] The danger is -[4726.42 --> 4727.58] we all -[4727.58 --> 4728.48] fall back -[4728.48 --> 4729.48] on what -[4729.48 --> 4730.26] is -[4730.26 --> 4731.08] normal. -[4732.08 --> 4732.90] And as -[4732.90 --> 4733.12] uncomfortable -[4733.64 --> 4734.72] as anxiety -[4734.72 --> 4735.54] is, -[4736.40 --> 4737.64] for some of you, -[4738.28 --> 4739.28] for most of you -[4739.28 --> 4740.06] perhaps even, -[4741.06 --> 4741.84] it is your -[4741.84 --> 4743.44] most common -[4743.44 --> 4744.50] bedfellow. -[4745.66 --> 4747.02] It is the darkness -[4747.02 --> 4747.74] that you know -[4747.74 --> 4749.00] and that are -[4749.00 --> 4749.76] comfortable in -[4749.76 --> 4751.16] and are unsure -[4751.16 --> 4752.10] how life could -[4752.10 --> 4753.18] possibly live -[4753.18 --> 4754.52] without this -[4754.52 --> 4755.50] anxiety -[4755.50 --> 4756.42] piercing -[4756.42 --> 4757.82] every aspect -[4757.82 --> 4758.52] of what -[4758.52 --> 4759.64] you do. -[4760.74 --> 4761.42] Remember -[4761.42 --> 4762.70] God's -[4762.70 --> 4763.44] covenant -[4763.44 --> 4764.60] identity -[4764.60 --> 4765.78] and his covenant -[4765.78 --> 4766.50] promises. -[4766.84 --> 4767.40] Remember that -[4767.40 --> 4768.30] they are a source -[4768.30 --> 4769.20] of strength -[4769.20 --> 4770.38] and encouragement. -[4773.18 --> 4773.70] Instead, -[4774.86 --> 4776.80] instead of -[4776.80 --> 4777.78] letting anxiety -[4777.78 --> 4778.80] make you stupid, -[4779.80 --> 4780.90] let us fix -[4780.90 --> 4781.56] our eyes -[4781.56 --> 4782.70] on Jesus, -[4783.18 --> 4784.38] the one -[4784.38 --> 4784.96] whom Moses -[4784.96 --> 4785.92] is ultimately -[4785.92 --> 4786.40] revealing -[4786.40 --> 4787.48] to us. -[4787.86 --> 4788.66] Let us fix -[4788.66 --> 4789.22] our eyes -[4789.22 --> 4789.84] on Jesus, -[4790.06 --> 4790.54] the author -[4790.54 --> 4791.66] and perfecter -[4791.66 --> 4792.50] of our faith, -[4792.60 --> 4793.44] and let us run -[4793.44 --> 4794.38] with endurance -[4794.38 --> 4794.98] the race -[4794.98 --> 4795.52] that God -[4795.52 --> 4796.26] has set out -[4796.26 --> 4797.36] before us. -[4797.84 --> 4798.66] In the world -[4798.66 --> 4799.14] today, -[4799.30 --> 4799.76] anxiety -[4799.76 --> 4801.08] and worry -[4801.08 --> 4802.24] are very, -[4802.36 --> 4803.42] very real. -[4805.56 --> 4806.20] But, -[4806.88 --> 4808.02] God is more -[4808.02 --> 4808.32] real. -[4809.76 --> 4810.70] God is more. -[4812.76 --> 4813.26] And his -[4813.26 --> 4814.86] covenant -[4814.86 --> 4815.72] name, -[4816.26 --> 4817.28] his identity, -[4817.28 --> 4818.82] and his promise -[4818.82 --> 4819.98] prove -[4819.98 --> 4821.08] that -[4821.08 --> 4822.28] true. -[4823.44 --> 4824.18] Let me pray -[4824.18 --> 4824.48] for you. -[4827.20 --> 4827.98] Holy God, -[4828.88 --> 4830.94] may we see -[4830.94 --> 4832.20] who you are -[4832.20 --> 4833.26] more clearly -[4833.26 --> 4834.14] today. -[4835.06 --> 4835.42] Open -[4835.42 --> 4836.50] the eyes -[4836.50 --> 4837.36] of our heart -[4837.36 --> 4838.18] to see -[4838.18 --> 4838.98] you. -[4840.20 --> 4841.14] Open the eyes -[4841.14 --> 4841.66] of our heart -[4841.66 --> 4842.58] to hear -[4842.58 --> 4843.16] your word -[4843.16 --> 4843.70] and to know -[4843.70 --> 4844.24] the truth -[4844.24 --> 4844.72] of what -[4844.72 --> 4845.54] your name -[4845.54 --> 4846.38] means for -[4846.38 --> 4847.04] who you are. -[4847.28 --> 4847.72] the truth -[4847.72 --> 4848.42] of your covenant -[4848.42 --> 4848.98] promises -[4848.98 --> 4850.08] in relationship -[4850.08 --> 4851.06] to the assurance -[4851.06 --> 4851.96] that your name -[4851.96 --> 4852.76] provides, -[4852.86 --> 4853.32] and that we -[4853.32 --> 4853.82] might go -[4853.82 --> 4854.52] from this -[4854.52 --> 4855.32] place, -[4855.44 --> 4856.54] having witnessed -[4856.54 --> 4857.54] the gospel -[4857.54 --> 4859.00] of Jesus Christ -[4859.00 --> 4860.10] once again, -[4860.56 --> 4861.44] may we go -[4861.44 --> 4862.38] convicted -[4862.38 --> 4864.10] and encouraged. -[4864.30 --> 4864.88] May we go -[4864.88 --> 4865.72] strengthened -[4865.72 --> 4867.16] and emboldened. -[4867.52 --> 4868.30] May we go -[4868.30 --> 4872.32] just a little -[4872.32 --> 4873.46] bit more -[4873.46 --> 4873.98] aware -[4873.98 --> 4875.58] of how -[4875.58 --> 4876.02] you -[4876.02 --> 4877.34] are at work -[4877.34 --> 4878.04] in the world -[4878.04 --> 4878.72] here and -[4878.72 --> 4879.06] now -[4879.06 --> 4879.46] and how -[4879.46 --> 4879.84] you -[4879.84 --> 4880.76] are guiding -[4880.76 --> 4881.56] history -[4881.56 --> 4882.34] towards -[4882.34 --> 4882.74] your -[4882.74 --> 4883.44] great -[4883.44 --> 4884.14] end. -[4884.28 --> 4884.88] And so -[4884.88 --> 4885.72] may we -[4885.72 --> 4886.22] go -[4886.22 --> 4887.08] in -[4887.08 --> 4888.00] your -[4888.00 --> 4889.10] peace. -[4891.60 --> 4892.86] Your peace -[4892.86 --> 4894.38] is worth -[4894.38 --> 4894.84] the weight -[4894.84 --> 4896.48] and you, -[4896.64 --> 4897.10] Lord God, -[4897.46 --> 4897.98] are the -[4897.98 --> 4898.50] weightiest -[4898.50 --> 4899.36] of all. -[4899.86 --> 4900.36] And so we -[4900.36 --> 4901.02] give you -[4901.02 --> 4902.06] glory. -[4902.70 --> 4903.20] In Jesus -[4903.20 --> 4904.14] we pray. -[4905.02 --> 4905.42] Amen. -[4905.42 --> 4905.50] Amen. -[4915.10 --> 4916.20] And we -[4916.20 --> 4916.90] rise and -[4916.90 --> 4917.54] sing. -[4917.54 --> 4933.06] strategies -[4933.06 --> 4933.98] in -[4933.98 --> 4942.80] The演Pod appament. -[4950.80 --> 4956.12] My God of Abraham lead me by your hand. -[4956.12 --> 4958.92] You are strong and wise. -[4958.92 --> 4967.40] I want to trust in you and in all I do bring you honor and praise. -[4968.92 --> 4977.40] How I love you, great and mighty King. -[4977.40 --> 4987.40] You are faithful through the ages you never change. -[4988.92 --> 4996.40] I know the dark of night that I fear to fight you are hope and truth. -[4997.40 --> 5005.18] I want to trust in you and in all I do bring you honor and praise. -[5005.18 --> 5013.50] How I love you, great and mighty King. -[5013.50 --> 5023.92] You are faithful through the ages you never change. -[5023.92 --> 5027.80] Be my guide for the road ahead. -[5028.08 --> 5032.20] Should I feel this that you are just and good. -[5033.00 --> 5040.40] I want to trust in you and in all I do bring you honor and praise. -[5040.40 --> 5049.40] How I love you, great and mighty King. -[5049.40 --> 5058.30] You are faithful through the ages you never change. -[5058.30 --> 5066.22] How I love you, great and mighty King. -[5066.22 --> 5077.04] You are faithful through the ages you never change. -[5077.04 --> 5097.44] As you go into this week, know that God himself goes with you in the power of his name and the surety of his promise. -[5097.44 --> 5105.92] May God go before you to lead you. -[5105.92 --> 5108.78] May God go behind you to protect you. -[5109.28 --> 5111.76] May God go beneath you to support you. -[5112.36 --> 5114.84] May God go beside you to befriend you. -[5115.30 --> 5117.48] Do not be afraid. -[5118.04 --> 5119.86] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5119.86 --> 5126.86] May God go beside you to love and serve the Lord. -[5126.86 --> 5128.86] Amen. -[5128.86 --> 5158.84] May God go beside you. -[5158.86 --> 5188.84] May God go beside you. -[5188.86 --> 5190.86] May God go there,でしょう new hands. -[5190.86 --> 5194.24] May God go beside you. -[5194.30 --> 5196.16] May God go above and serve the Lord. -[5196.16 --> 5197.40] May God go beside you. -[5197.40 --> 5198.86] May God overcome you to tell you that. -[5199.20 --> 5203.20] May God go inside you, God overcome you. -[5203.56 --> 5208.26] May God go ships through our hands. -[5208.26 --> 5220.48] There's a shield in our head and a sword at our side -[5220.48 --> 5224.36] There's a fire in our spirits that cannot be denied -[5224.36 --> 5228.54] There's a father that's a world that's for these you have died -[5228.54 --> 5232.04] For the nations who gather before you -[5232.04 --> 5235.54] And the years of all can't meet you here -[5235.54 --> 5239.14] On the Lamb who was crucified -[5239.14 --> 5248.42] He descended to hell and was raised up to reign at his Father's side -[5248.42 --> 5250.78] And the angels will cry -[5250.78 --> 5254.30] Hail the Lamb -[5254.30 --> 5262.38] Who was slain for the world's ruling power -[5262.38 --> 5266.98] And the earth will reply -[5266.98 --> 5271.98] You shall reign -[5271.98 --> 5277.12] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all worlds -[5277.12 --> 5279.30] And the angels will cry -[5279.30 --> 5283.26] Hail the Lamb -[5283.26 --> 5292.86] Who was slain for the world's ruling power -[5292.86 --> 5295.74] And the earth will reply -[5295.74 --> 5300.86] You shall reign -[5300.86 --> 5305.96] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all worlds -[5305.96 --> 5311.56] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all worlds -[5311.56 --> 5313.06] Don't excel -[5313.06 --> 5313.76] Not role for the Lord of all kings and the Lord of all kings and the Lord -[5313.76 --> 5316.26] ams -[5317.16 --> 5319.08] This King of all kings and princes -[5319.08 --> 5320.26] So ever -[5320.26 --> 5321.10] How to speak -[5321.10 --> 5323.64] And the Lord of all kings and kings -[5323.64 --> 5324.48] If be whole -[5324.48 --> 5325.80] Of kings and kings and kings -[5325.80 --> 5327.16] Then come true -[5327.16 --> 5327.18] The powers that are commanded -[5327.34 --> 5328.16] Frommont -[5328.16 --> 5329.44] You shall not mention -[5329.44 --> 5331.24] The King of all kings -[5331.24 --> 5332.20] The King of all kings and kings -[5332.20 --> 5332.92] The King of all kings and kings -[5332.92 --> 5334.42] Are we reestablish -[5334.42 --> 5335.16] As the King of all kings -[5335.16 --> 5337.48] Has the King of all kings and kings -[5337.48 --> 5338.48] The King of all kings and kings -[5338.48 --> 5368.46] We'll be right back. -[5368.48 --> 5398.46] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - January 29, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - January 29, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c3e5ba2ab4c1f21bff2c999c8457e51239cb2ad5..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - January 29, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,99 +0,0 @@ -• Jesus as redeemer and savior -• Praise and worship of Jesus -• Love for Jesus cannot be denied -• Comparison of Jesus' glory to the sun -• Decision to follow Jesus and serve Him -• Commitment to hear His voice and live -• Acknowledgment of Jesus as Wonderful Counselor, Everlasting Father, Eternal King, and Lord of Hosts -• Introduction to Cadet Sunday at Emmanuel church -• Welcome and theme verse ("amazing") for the day -• Announcements: HCBC event, Giant Dutch Blitz game with other churches -• Worship service begins with God's greeting and passing of peace -• Invitation to cadets to stand and recite their motto, verse, code, pledge -• Litany based on Psalms 8 and 24, acknowledging God's greatness and power -• Worship and adoration of God -• Confession of sin and need for forgiveness -• Thankfulness for the hope and assurance provided by Christ's death -• Prayer for mercy, forgiveness, and steadfast love -• Recognition of God's faithfulness and provision throughout life -• Praise to God's faithfulness, mercy, and love -• Various hymns and worship songs were sung -• Daryl introduced himself as a leader for the Fraser Valley Regional Cadets -• The purpose of the cadet program was discussed -• A special offering was announced for the Calvinist Cadet Corps -• The friendship ministry was also mentioned as next week's focus -• A song about God's greatness and majesty was sung, emphasizing His power and control over time -• Announcements about family members' health issues: Leanne's father, Ellen White, and Peter Rollman's uncle Art -• Introduction of Dave as the leader for church family prayer -• Prayers for various requests: - • Healing for Leanne's father - • Comfort for those grieving the loss of Uncle Art - • Recovery for Ellen White from her injury -• Confession of sins and failings, asking God to help them focus on Him -• Gratitude for blessings in their lives -• Gratitude for church ministries and volunteers -• Thanking God for the Cadets and Calvinist Cadet Corps -• Prayer for the congregation, community, and world, including specific needs: - + Ukraine war - + Margaret De Vries' family in grieving - + Jackie Birkenpass' cancer treatment - + Benita Smith's health - + Helen Hanson's passing - + Terry Meshaw's illness - + Ellen White's knee injury - + Art and Jeanette's accident -• Reading from the Bible (Joshua 3:1-17) about consecrating oneself for God to do amazing things -• Reflection on being with God in times of hardship and difficulty -• The story of the Israelites crossing the Jordan River with the ark of the covenant -• The theme of being "amazing" and seeing how amazing God is in the world -• Consecrating oneself to be set apart for a purpose, as mentioned in Joshua 3:5 -• Understanding the word "consecrated" to mean being made holy or set apart -• Preparing oneself to see God's amazing works and recognizing them as signs of His presence. -• Recognizing God and understanding what he wants from us -• The story in Joshua 3 and its historical significance -• Connecting Bible stories to real-life locations and events -• The geography of the region around Israel, including the Dead Sea and Jordan River -• The context of the story in Joshua 3, including the Israelites' journey from Egypt and their need for water -• Mount Nebo is where Moses meets with God and exchanges leadership with Joshua -• The Israelites camped near Mount Nebo before crossing into the Promised Land -• The city of Jericho was the first city they entered after crossing the Jordan River -• The valley on Mount Nebo is where the Israelites would have camped while waiting to cross the Jordan River -• God proved his protection and plan by stopping the flow of the Jordan River as a sign for the Israelites -• The miracle of Moses leading the Israelites through the Sea of Reeds and its significance in establishing his leadership -• The parallel between this event and Joshua's leadership, as recorded in Joshua 3-4 -• The timing of Joshua's crossing of the Jordan River, which occurred on the tenth day of the first month (Abib/Nisan) -• Clues in the story that suggest it took place sometime during mid-March or early April -• Connection between the barley and flax harvests in this region and the timeframe for these events -• The flooding of the Jordan River due to snowmelt from Mount Hermon and its impact on the river's banks -• Historical context adding depth and realism to the biblical account -• The Jordan River's current state and its transformation over time -• The careful management of the river by Israeli and Jordanian governments due to its importance as a source of fresh water -• Historical records and descriptions of the Jordan River, including observations from 19th and 16th century texts and 1st-century historian Josephus -• The river's flood patterns and how it's been designed and cultivated over time -• A comparison between the Jordan River and other major rivers in history, such as the Nile in Egypt -• The psychological impact of seeing the overflowing Jordan River on people who have lived in the desert for a long time -• The parallel between the Jordan River's significance to ancient cultures and its current importance as a source of fresh water -• The strength of the God of the Bible compared to the gods of the Canaanites -• The importance of stepping into a river (metaphorically) as a symbol of trusting and following God -• Consecrating oneself for God's work and being marked with purpose -• Faith as a demonstration of trust in God, even in scary or uncertain situations -• The contrast between faith then and now, particularly with the example of Jesus' baptism -• The call to live for Jesus and serve others -• Calling to live like Jesus and being called by God -• Faith making one take risks and do wild things, but not alone -• Consecrating oneself for amazing things from the Lord -• Cadets' definition of a Christian: reverent, obedient, compassionate, consecrated, trustworthy, pure, grateful, loyal, industrious, and cheerful -• A generation of men being set apart for God's work -• The world needing a change and God calling to step into the river -• Commitment to Jesus and following Him -• Prayer for power from Jesus to transform cadets into His image -• Invocation to God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit -• Surrendering one's life and heart to God -• Acceptance of atonement through Christ's sacrifice -• Commitment to follow Jesus' leading -• Acknowledgment of God's love and mercy -• Invitation for worshipers to remain and engage in fellowship -• Discussion of upcoming events, including a prayer partner and clearing chairs for table setup -• The joy of the Lord is mentioned as a source of strength -• Walking by faith will result in being strong to be delivered and kept safe -• A repetitive phrase "so" is used throughout the transcript \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - January 29, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - January 29, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ad420b6c3ba80547cfff4b877f80fdd4dc99df63..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - January 29, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1339 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 22.96] You Traded Riches -[24.40 --> 26.08] To Run To -[26.32 --> 27.82] Myибin -[27.82 --> 29.14] Oh my -[29.14 --> 32.22] Oh my redeemer. -[33.28 --> 36.76] You take the pieces. -[38.84 --> 42.12] And turn them to praises. -[42.50 --> 46.58] Oh my redeemer. -[48.26 --> 53.78] Oh my redeemer. -[53.78 --> 83.76] Oh my redeemer. -[83.78 --> 89.62] Oh my redeemer. -[91.28 --> 96.84] Oh my redeemer. -[99.78 --> 103.78] Love I cannot deny. -[104.78 --> 107.10] Sure as the morning light. -[107.56 --> 111.54] Jesus my redeemer. -[111.54 --> 117.54] Now I'm not ashamed. -[118.82 --> 120.54] To you be the highest praise. -[121.92 --> 125.94] Jesus my redeemer. -[127.38 --> 129.46] My redeemer. -[129.46 --> 143.46] No other one. -[143.46 --> 146.84] So glorious. -[146.84 --> 153.84] You outshine the sun. -[153.84 --> 157.84] No other love. -[157.84 --> 160.84] Like Jesus. -[160.84 --> 165.84] You outshine the sun. -[165.84 --> 168.84] You outshine the sun. -[171.84 --> 175.84] You outshine the sun. -[175.84 --> 178.84] You outshine the sun. -[178.84 --> 183.22] You outshine the sun. -[185.84 --> 186.02] Yeah. -[186.02 --> 190.84] You outshine the sun. -[190.84 --> 192.84] Yeah. -[192.84 --> 193.84] You outshine the sun. -[193.84 --> 194.00] Yeah. -[201.84 --> 203.84] You outshine. -[203.84 --> 205.84] You outshine. -[205.84 --> 206.80] Yeah. -[206.80 --> 206.90] You outshine. -[206.90 --> 207.90] Yeah. -[207.90 --> 211.84] Love I cannot deny. -[211.84 --> 214.34] Sure as a moment lie -[214.34 --> 219.04] Jesus, my Redeemer -[219.04 --> 225.64] Now I'm not ashamed -[225.64 --> 228.88] To you be the highest praise -[228.88 --> 233.36] Jesus, my Redeemer -[233.36 --> 236.92] My Redeemer, my Redeemer -[241.84 --> 251.84] Now you shine -[251.84 --> 256.84] How you shine -[256.84 --> 261.84] My Redeemer -[271.84 --> 291.64] How you shine -[291.64 --> 293.90] How you shine -[293.90 --> 301.98] 突. -[301.98 --> 306.60] In our hearts -[306.60 --> 319.98] Yeah, yeah -[319.98 --> 331.12] Today I choose -[331.12 --> 334.90] To follow you -[334.90 --> 339.12] Today I choose -[339.12 --> 344.12] To give my yes to you -[344.12 --> 348.12] Today I choose -[348.12 --> 352.62] To hear your voice and live -[352.62 --> 356.12] Today I choose -[356.12 --> 360.12] To follow you -[361.12 --> 366.12] As for me, my house -[366.12 --> 370.22] We will serve you -[370.22 --> 374.12] As for me, my house -[374.12 --> 379.12] We will spend my life on you -[379.12 --> 381.12] Today -[381.12 --> 392.12] Today I choose -[392.12 --> 396.12] To follow you -[396.12 --> 403.12] Today I choose -[403.12 --> 405.12] Today I choose -[405.12 --> 408.12] Today I choose -[408.12 --> 413.12] Today I choose -[413.12 --> 415.12] To hear your voice and live -[415.12 --> 417.12] Today I choose -[417.12 --> 422.44] To follow you -[422.44 --> 427.84] As for me, my house -[427.84 --> 431.74] We will serve you -[431.74 --> 436.14] As for me, my house -[436.14 --> 440.98] We will spend our lives on you -[440.98 --> 446.74] As for me, my house -[446.74 --> 450.90] We will serve you -[450.90 --> 455.32] As for me, my house -[455.32 --> 460.12] We will spend our lives on you -[460.12 --> 461.68] Today -[461.68 --> 473.44] Wonderful counselor -[473.44 --> 477.16] Everlasting father -[477.16 --> 480.24] Eternal king -[480.24 --> 482.44] Lord of hosts -[482.44 --> 485.60] Willingly we follow -[485.60 --> 490.24] You're the wonderful counselor -[490.24 --> 494.10] Everlasting father -[494.10 --> 496.82] Eternal king -[496.82 --> 497.82] Eternal king -[497.82 --> 499.42] Lord of hosts -[499.42 --> 503.10] Willingly we follow -[503.10 --> 509.48] Today I choose -[509.48 --> 513.20] To follow you -[513.20 --> 517.48] Today I choose -[517.48 --> 523.38] To give my yes to you -[523.38 --> 526.52] Today I choose -[526.52 --> 531.06] To hear your voice and live -[531.06 --> 534.48] Today I choose -[534.48 --> 539.48] To follow you -[539.48 --> 541.48] To follow you -[541.48 --> 546.48] Gonna follow you -[546.48 --> 548.32] 歡迎 -[548.32 --> 549.18] To 해�OUR -[549.18 --> 550.20] 皆 -[550.20 --> 550.94] attributes -[550.94 --> 563.28] To mimes -[563.28 --> 564.14] After -[564.14 --> 564.78] To -[565.12 --> 567.08] Rim -[567.08 --> 581.64] To the river I am -[581.64 --> 591.50] Good morning. -[591.50 --> 591.80] Good morning. -[593.88 --> 596.78] Alright, that was pretty awful. -[597.08 --> 597.98] Good morning. -[599.48 --> 601.04] Hey, much better. -[601.18 --> 602.98] Welcome to church. -[603.24 --> 603.92] My name is Chris. -[604.12 --> 605.84] I am one of the pastors here. -[606.00 --> 610.70] And it's my privilege, along with a few others, to lead in worship. -[610.88 --> 614.20] If you are a regular worshiper here with us and you look around, -[614.32 --> 618.78] you might see this middle section is filled out a little bit differently today. -[618.78 --> 624.50] And we are really excited to welcome and to host the Fraser Valley Cadet Clubs. -[624.50 --> 627.88] And so, boys, counselors, welcome to Emmanuel. -[628.40 --> 631.14] I hope and pray that today is awesome for you. -[631.56 --> 634.78] Maybe I should say that today is amazing for you. -[635.32 --> 638.20] Because amazing is your theme verse. -[638.30 --> 638.96] More on that later. -[639.70 --> 640.44] There's going to be a quiz. -[640.44 --> 645.86] Kevin laughed at me there. -[646.04 --> 646.26] Anyway. -[647.46 --> 649.24] It is indeed Cadet Sunday. -[649.38 --> 651.12] And we're excited to share in that. -[651.22 --> 654.26] As more people are filing in throughout the course, -[654.38 --> 658.62] just be mindful that we're going to, we possibly, anyway, are going to be tight this morning. -[658.70 --> 660.36] So make room for the people around you. -[661.18 --> 663.12] Before we begin in earnest, there's a couple announcements. -[663.38 --> 664.86] And so, Josh, I'm going to get you to come up. -[665.24 --> 668.06] And then while Josh is on his way up, I will just remind you, -[668.38 --> 672.48] if you're in our youth program, tonight is HCBC. -[672.86 --> 676.00] And so if you have any questions on what that looks like or times or locations, -[676.56 --> 677.20] you can get Kevin. -[677.36 --> 678.12] He will let you know. -[678.12 --> 688.20] For the young adults today, at 7 p.m., we have Giant Dutch Blitz here. -[688.54 --> 691.80] It is also a part of our Greater Young Adults Ministry with Willoughby CRC, -[693.10 --> 696.56] Fleetwood CRC, Maple Ridge CRC, and potentially New Life, -[696.90 --> 699.86] who are all going to be coming over to play Giant Dutch Blitz -[699.86 --> 702.76] with our Giant Dutch Blitz cards against our church. -[703.10 --> 706.56] So, and since we're the ones that own the cards, we need to make sure that we win. -[706.56 --> 710.88] So I need all of you to go to keep the honor of our church. -[712.60 --> 713.32] Thank you. -[713.44 --> 715.44] It's at 7 p.m. here. -[719.46 --> 719.98] Okay. -[720.34 --> 724.52] We are going to start our worship together with God's greeting. -[724.72 --> 727.66] And so I'm going to invite you, as you are able to stand, -[728.58 --> 731.14] we will receive God's greeting together. -[731.14 --> 737.98] We gather in the presence of our good God. -[738.06 --> 740.90] He is in this place with us. -[741.04 --> 743.80] And so receive his greeting. -[745.46 --> 749.02] Grace, mercy, and peace to you. -[749.24 --> 753.44] From God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, -[753.90 --> 756.28] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[756.90 --> 757.68] All God's people said? -[757.68 --> 758.24] Amen. -[759.00 --> 759.24] Amen. -[759.40 --> 763.06] I'm going to invite you just to take this time to greet those around you -[763.06 --> 764.06] with whom you are worshiping. -[764.28 --> 766.18] Handshake, fist bump, however you like. -[766.70 --> 768.38] Pass the peace of Christ this morning. -[768.38 --> 798.36] Thank you. -[798.38 --> 828.36] Thank you. -[828.38 --> 830.38] I am the Allied Councilor here at Langley Emanuel. -[831.16 --> 836.10] We're going to begin this morning by inviting the cadets from all clubs to stand up and -[836.10 --> 837.30] reciting our landmarks. -[837.64 --> 839.62] And afterwards, I'll lead you through our cadet litany. -[840.58 --> 843.22] So boys, Councilors, if you could all stand up. -[848.52 --> 849.56] All right, cadets. -[849.84 --> 850.62] What is your motto? -[851.74 --> 852.22] Cadets. -[852.38 --> 853.14] Cadets. -[853.14 --> 864.82] cadets what is your verse cadets what is your code -[875.54 --> 879.54] cadets what is your pledge -[883.14 --> 896.82] all right i invite the rest of you now to stand as well as we lead you through the litany -[899.38 --> 904.10] so our call to worship this morning is based on this year's one word cadet theme amazing -[904.90 --> 910.26] and this litany based on verses from psalm 8 and psalm 24 acknowledges what an amazing god we have -[913.14 --> 917.62] okay that's -[919.30 --> 930.42] the earth is the lord's and everything in it -[930.42 --> 942.10] when i consider the heavens the work of your fingers -[942.10 --> 953.54] human beings that you care for them -[953.54 --> 962.58] who is this king of glory -[962.58 --> 969.46] who is this king of glory -[969.46 --> 979.62] lord oh lord how majestic is your name in all the earth -[980.26 --> 985.86] in joshua 3 verse 5 joshua told the israelites to consecrate themselves for tomorrow the lord -[985.86 --> 998.02] will do amazing things among you -[998.02 --> 1011.22] will be -[1011.22 --> 1016.18] so -[1016.18 --> 1030.92] Father in heaven, how we love you -[1030.92 --> 1036.72] We lift your name in all the earth -[1036.72 --> 1042.18] May your kingdom be established in our praises -[1042.18 --> 1047.98] As your people declare your mighty words -[1047.98 --> 1053.74] Blessed be the Lord God Almighty -[1053.74 --> 1059.90] Who was and is and is to come -[1059.90 --> 1065.54] Blessed be the Lord God Almighty -[1065.54 --> 1071.54] Who reigns forevermore -[1071.54 --> 1077.34] Father of mercy be exalted -[1077.34 --> 1083.62] May Jesus' name be lifted high -[1083.62 --> 1088.86] For the sacrifice of love has won my pardon -[1088.86 --> 1094.72] And its resurrection power gives me life -[1094.72 --> 1100.52] Blessed be the Lord God Almighty -[1100.52 --> 1106.42] Who was and is and is to come -[1106.42 --> 1112.10] Blessed be the Lord God Almighty -[1112.10 --> 1118.10] Who reigns forevermore -[1118.10 --> 1123.90] Blessed be the Lord God Almighty -[1123.90 --> 1129.90] Who was and is and is to come -[1129.90 --> 1135.62] Blessed be the Lord God Almighty -[1135.62 --> 1141.42] Who reigns forevermore -[1141.42 --> 1147.22] Lord God Almighty -[1147.22 --> 1152.90] Phillips star -[1153.02 --> 1157.78] jack -[1177.22 --> 1185.36] Lord, I come, I confess -[1185.36 --> 1191.20] Thou in here I find my rest -[1191.20 --> 1197.30] And without you I fall apart -[1197.30 --> 1204.36] You're the one that guides my heart -[1204.36 --> 1212.66] Lord, I need you, oh, I need you -[1212.66 --> 1218.52] Every hour I need you -[1218.52 --> 1224.28] My one defense, my righteousness -[1224.28 --> 1229.42] Oh God, how I need you -[1229.42 --> 1238.64] Where sin runs deep, your grace is more -[1238.64 --> 1244.50] Where grace is found is where you are -[1244.50 --> 1250.42] And where you are, Lord, I am free -[1250.42 --> 1256.80] Holiness is Christ in me -[1256.80 --> 1262.00] And where you are, Lord, I am free -[1262.00 --> 1269.64] Holiness is Christ in me -[1269.64 --> 1277.74] Lord, I need you, oh, I need you -[1277.74 --> 1283.44] Every hour I need you -[1283.44 --> 1289.00] My one defense, my righteousness -[1289.00 --> 1293.86] Oh God, how I need you -[1293.86 --> 1298.74] So teach my song to rise to you -[1298.74 --> 1304.44] When temptation comes my way -[1304.44 --> 1309.08] And when I cannot stand, I'll fall on you -[1309.08 --> 1314.24] Jesus, you're my hope and stay -[1314.24 --> 1319.40] And when I cannot stand, I'll fall on you -[1319.40 --> 1324.62] Jesus, you're my hope and stay -[1324.62 --> 1333.86] Lord, I need you, oh, I need you -[1333.86 --> 1339.46] Every hour I need you -[1339.46 --> 1344.94] My one defense, my righteousness -[1344.94 --> 1349.84] Oh God, how I need you -[1349.84 --> 1356.74] Lord, I need you, oh, I need you -[1356.74 --> 1362.38] Every hour I need you -[1362.38 --> 1368.04] My one defense, my righteousness -[1368.04 --> 1373.76] Oh God, how I need you -[1373.76 --> 1382.20] Pray with me -[1382.20 --> 1386.98] Our Father in heaven, we come before you this morning -[1386.98 --> 1389.34] Recognizing how much we need you -[1389.34 --> 1393.46] How much we need your love, your mercy, and your grace -[1393.46 --> 1395.74] God, each of us has sinned -[1395.74 --> 1398.60] Whether it be in our thoughts, our words, or our deeds -[1398.60 --> 1402.24] We are often so concerned with what we think -[1402.24 --> 1404.26] Are the important things in our lives -[1404.26 --> 1406.46] That we fail to recognize you -[1406.46 --> 1408.18] In each of our circumstances -[1408.18 --> 1411.82] Lord, we confess we have not always loved you -[1411.82 --> 1412.86] With our whole heart -[1412.86 --> 1414.76] Nor served you as we should -[1414.76 --> 1417.32] We have not always loved others -[1417.32 --> 1418.94] As we have loved ourselves -[1418.94 --> 1422.00] We have not always been salt and light -[1422.00 --> 1422.96] In this world -[1422.96 --> 1426.42] In Romans we read that there is not one of us -[1426.42 --> 1427.28] Who is righteous -[1427.28 --> 1428.88] Not one -[1428.88 --> 1432.62] But Lord, we thank you for the amazing hope -[1432.62 --> 1433.92] And assurance we have -[1433.92 --> 1436.84] That righteousness is available to us -[1436.84 --> 1439.30] Through the faith we have in Christ's death -[1439.30 --> 1440.98] For us on the cross -[1440.98 --> 1444.06] That we can have bright hope for tomorrow -[1444.06 --> 1448.10] Father God, through Jesus we pray for mercy -[1448.10 --> 1449.58] We pray for your forgiveness -[1449.58 --> 1452.40] We thank you for your steadfast love -[1452.40 --> 1454.64] And mercies that never cease -[1454.64 --> 1456.58] And are new every morning -[1456.58 --> 1459.46] Great is your faithfulness, oh God -[1459.46 --> 1461.46] In Jesus' name we pray -[1461.46 --> 1462.56] Amen -[1462.56 --> 1477.34] Pour over -[1477.34 --> 1502.04] Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father. -[1502.04 --> 1509.66] There is no shadow of turning with thee. -[1510.32 --> 1517.12] Thou changest not, thy compassions may fail not. -[1517.38 --> 1523.74] As thou hast been, thou forever wilt be. -[1523.74 --> 1530.74] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[1530.74 --> 1537.74] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[1538.68 --> 1544.74] All I have needed, thy hand hath provided. -[1545.84 --> 1551.92] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[1551.92 --> 1560.92] Summer and winter and springtime and harvest. -[1560.92 --> 1566.92] Sun, moon, and stars in their courses above. -[1566.92 --> 1573.92] Join with all nature in manifold witness. -[1574.86 --> 1580.92] To thy great faithfulness, mercy and love. -[1581.92 --> 1587.92] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[1587.92 --> 1594.92] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[1594.92 --> 1601.92] All I have needed, thy hand hath provided. -[1601.92 --> 1608.92] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[1608.92 --> 1609.92] Lord, unto me. -[1609.92 --> 1617.92] Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth. -[1617.92 --> 1623.92] Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide. -[1623.92 --> 1630.92] Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow. -[1630.92 --> 1637.92] Blessings of mine with ten thousand beside. -[1637.92 --> 1644.92] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[1644.92 --> 1645.92] Lord, unto me. -[1645.92 --> 1651.92] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[1651.92 --> 1658.92] All I have needed, thy hand hath provided. -[1658.92 --> 1665.92] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[1665.92 --> 1669.92] Gentleman favorite person to honor. -[1672.92 --> 1678.92] Happy today andHN. -[1678.92 --> 1679.92] じسم. -[1680.92 --> 1686.92] sh Industans -[1686.92 --> 1689.92] gjithing -[1689.92 --> 1710.00] Purify my heart -[1710.00 --> 1713.70] Let me be as gold -[1713.70 --> 1716.62] And precious silver -[1716.62 --> 1720.48] Purify my heart -[1720.48 --> 1724.48] Let me be as gold -[1724.48 --> 1727.14] Pure gold -[1727.14 --> 1730.90] Refine and shine -[1730.90 --> 1736.74] My heart's one desire -[1736.74 --> 1741.56] Is to be holy -[1741.56 --> 1747.14] Set apart for you, Lord -[1747.14 --> 1751.82] I choose to be holy -[1751.82 --> 1757.42] Set apart for you, my master -[1757.42 --> 1762.42] Ready to do your will -[1762.42 --> 1770.00] Purify my heart -[1770.00 --> 1772.28] Cleanse me from within -[1772.28 --> 1776.38] And make me holy -[1776.38 --> 1780.12] Purify my heart -[1780.12 --> 1783.88] Cleanse me from my sin -[1783.88 --> 1786.68] Deep within -[1786.68 --> 1790.28] Refine and shine -[1790.28 --> 1795.86] My heart's one desire -[1795.86 --> 1800.54] Is to be holy -[1800.54 --> 1805.96] Set apart for you, Lord -[1805.96 --> 1810.66] I choose to be holy -[1810.66 --> 1816.54] Set apart for you, my master -[1816.54 --> 1822.12] Ready to do your will -[1822.12 --> 1823.12] Ready to do your will -[1823.12 --> 1824.12] Ready to do your will -[1824.12 --> 1825.12] Ready to do your will -[1825.12 --> 1827.12] Refine and shine -[1827.12 --> 1829.12] My heart's one desire -[1829.12 --> 1833.12] My heart's one desire -[1833.12 --> 1838.12] Is to be holy -[1838.12 --> 1844.06] Set apart for you, Lord -[1844.06 --> 1849.64] I choose to be holy -[1849.64 --> 1854.64] Set apart for you, my master -[1854.64 --> 1857.64] Ready to do your will -[1857.64 --> 1858.64] Set apart for you, my master -[1858.64 --> 1860.64] Ready to do your will -[1860.64 --> 1865.64] Set apart for you, my master -[1865.64 --> 1889.74] Good morning -[1889.74 --> 1893.58] Great to see so many cadets -[1893.58 --> 1894.48] And leaders out today -[1894.48 --> 1896.50] My name is Daryl -[1896.50 --> 1897.26] I'm one of the leaders -[1897.26 --> 1898.28] For the Fraser Valley -[1898.28 --> 1899.22] Regional Cadets -[1899.22 --> 1900.86] And today's special offering -[1900.86 --> 1902.34] Is for the Calvinist Cadet Corps -[1902.34 --> 1904.80] The cadets program's purpose -[1904.80 --> 1905.74] Is to provide churches -[1905.74 --> 1906.80] With a unique ministry -[1906.80 --> 1907.96] That will enable them -[1907.96 --> 1908.96] To effectively share -[1908.96 --> 1910.06] Christ's love with boys -[1910.06 --> 1911.70] In their church and community -[1911.70 --> 1913.90] It is a joy to be a part -[1913.90 --> 1914.42] Of the ministry -[1914.42 --> 1915.82] And see the positive effects -[1915.82 --> 1916.28] It has -[1916.28 --> 1917.78] Next week's offering -[1917.78 --> 1919.06] Is for the friendship ministry -[1919.06 --> 1920.82] And thank you for your generosity -[1920.82 --> 1922.50] And support for the cadet program -[1922.50 --> 1935.50] The splendor of the king -[1935.50 --> 1948.50] The splendor of the king -[1948.50 --> 1953.50] Clothed in majesty -[1953.50 --> 1955.50] Let all the earth rejoice -[1955.50 --> 1957.50] Let all the earth rejoice -[1957.50 --> 1960.50] All the earth rejoice -[1960.50 --> 1966.50] He wraps himself in light -[1966.50 --> 1972.50] And darkness tries to hide -[1972.50 --> 1975.50] And trembles at his voice -[1975.50 --> 1985.50] How great is our God -[1985.50 --> 1987.50] Sing with me -[1987.50 --> 1991.50] How great is our God -[1991.50 --> 1993.50] And all will see -[1993.50 --> 1995.50] How great -[1995.50 --> 2001.50] How great is our God -[2001.50 --> 2003.50] Age to age -[2003.50 --> 2005.50] Age to age -[2005.50 --> 2008.50] Age to age -[2008.50 --> 2009.50] He stands -[2009.50 --> 2011.50] And time is in His hands -[2011.50 --> 2016.50] And time is in His hands -[2016.50 --> 2019.50] Begin and end -[2019.50 --> 2021.50] Begin and end -[2021.50 --> 2022.50] Begin and end -[2022.50 --> 2028.50] And God hit three in one -[2028.50 --> 2048.50] Ke bЗ -[2048.50 --> 2066.30] We are worthy of all of this -[2078.50 --> 2091.54] And my heart will sing how great He's our God, oh He's our name -[2091.54 --> 2103.00] He's the name above all names You are worthy of all praise -[2103.00 --> 2114.00] And my heart will sing how great He's our God, oh He's our name -[2114.00 --> 2123.00] How great, how great He's our God, oh He's our name -[2123.00 --> 2128.00] How great, He's our God, oh He's our name -[2128.00 --> 2142.00] And all will see how great, how great He's our God, oh He's our name -[2142.00 --> 2152.00] You're the name above all names You are worthy of all praise -[2152.00 --> 2166.00] And my heart will sing how great He's our God, oh He's our name -[2166.00 --> 2178.00] You're the name above all names He is worthy of all praise -[2178.00 --> 2186.00] And my heart will sing how great He's our God, oh He's our name -[2196.00 --> 2202.00] Good morning everyone, if you are a child and you are age 3 up to grade 4 -[2202.00 --> 2206.00] You can come and join us up at the front here for Kids Corner -[2206.00 --> 2212.00] And then following that if you're visiting and you have a child within that age who's not a cadet staying here -[2212.00 --> 2217.00] You're welcome to follow us out for our children's worship time program -[2217.00 --> 2221.00] I think someone has stolen my seat, can you guys go on the ground? -[2221.00 --> 2223.00] Oh, so silly, alright -[2223.00 --> 2225.00] Oh, I don't know -[2225.00 --> 2231.00] Alright, good morning everybody -[2231.00 --> 2234.00] Oh, you're so quiet, you're still waking up -[2234.00 --> 2236.00] Oh, good morning -[2236.00 --> 2242.00] Today we are going to talk about people that we learn things from -[2242.00 --> 2246.00] Does anyone here know how to tie their shoes? -[2246.00 --> 2249.00] Oh, lots of you, who taught you how to tie your shoes? -[2249.00 --> 2251.00] Your mom -[2251.00 --> 2252.00] Your mom -[2252.00 --> 2253.00] Your mom -[2253.00 --> 2254.00] YouTube -[2254.00 --> 2255.00] Yeah, yeah -[2255.00 --> 2258.00] The teacher of the 2023 -[2258.00 --> 2264.00] How about, can anyone do like a somersault or some sort of like cartwheel business? -[2264.00 --> 2265.00] Yeah, yeah -[2265.00 --> 2267.00] Who taught you guys how to do that? -[2267.00 --> 2268.00] Who taught you how to do a cartwheel? -[2268.00 --> 2269.00] No one? -[2269.00 --> 2272.00] You just one day were like, I'm going to try doing this -[2272.00 --> 2273.00] Your friends -[2273.00 --> 2274.00] Or your mom -[2274.00 --> 2275.00] Okay -[2275.00 --> 2277.00] Haley -[2277.00 --> 2284.00] So we're going to talk about how we can learn from others and how we learn from Jesus -[2284.00 --> 2287.00] But how he also asks us to teach other people -[2287.00 --> 2291.00] And so we get to both be taught and also be teachers to other people -[2291.00 --> 2296.00] So before we go, we'll just stand up quick and do our blessing -[2296.00 --> 2299.00] And I'll invite everyone here to stand up as well -[2299.00 --> 2303.00] And to give and receive the blessing for the kids as well -[2303.00 --> 2306.00] And if you're not sure what we're doing, look around and follow along -[2306.00 --> 2307.00] It's pretty simple -[2307.00 --> 2308.00] Simple -[2308.00 --> 2309.00] Alright, that's it -[2309.00 --> 2310.00] Alright, that's it -[2310.00 --> 2311.00] Alright, that's it -[2311.00 --> 2312.00] One, two, three -[2312.00 --> 2314.00] And also with you -[2314.00 --> 2342.00] Good morning -[2342.00 --> 2343.00] Good morning -[2343.00 --> 2344.00] My name is Dave -[2344.00 --> 2346.00] I'm one of the elders at our church -[2346.00 --> 2350.00] And it is my turn to lead us in our church family prayer -[2350.00 --> 2353.00] A couple of announcements before we do so -[2353.00 --> 2358.00] We have been praying for Leanne's dad, my father-in-law for the last little while -[2358.00 --> 2359.00] As he deals with cancer -[2359.00 --> 2365.00] And for a while we were expecting a very short time with us -[2365.00 --> 2368.00] He's been hanging around a lot longer than anyone expected -[2368.00 --> 2371.00] And they've decided that treatment is a good option after all -[2371.00 --> 2373.00] So there's some progress -[2373.00 --> 2378.00] We get word that Ellen White fell and injured her knee -[2378.00 --> 2381.00] Movement is even more difficult than normal for her -[2381.00 --> 2385.00] She may need some assistance -[2385.00 --> 2387.00] Please keep her in your prayers -[2387.00 --> 2391.00] And we've been told that Peter Rollman's uncle Art -[2391.00 --> 2395.00] Was killed in a serious car crash yesterday -[2395.00 --> 2399.00] They were on their way home to Ontario from visiting BC -[2399.00 --> 2402.00] His aunt Jeanette is in hospital recovering -[2402.00 --> 2409.00] We pray for the peace of Christ in the midst of grief and mourning and questions to God -[2409.00 --> 2412.00] Shall we pray to our Father? -[2412.00 --> 2419.00] Father, it is good that we are all here -[2419.00 --> 2421.00] This is the day that you have made -[2421.00 --> 2423.00] We rejoice and we are glad in it -[2423.00 --> 2425.00] It is very good for us to be here -[2425.00 --> 2428.00] We come together on this Sunday to celebrate your name -[2428.00 --> 2432.00] And on this Lord's Day we gather with Christians everywhere -[2432.00 --> 2435.00] To hear your word and to sing your praises -[2435.00 --> 2439.00] We praise you and we celebrate your goodness in our lives -[2439.00 --> 2443.00] Father, in this time of confession -[2443.00 --> 2446.00] We confess our sins and our failings -[2446.00 --> 2449.00] We have not lived up to what you require of us -[2449.00 --> 2453.00] We do not act justly, love mercy, or walk humbly with our God -[2453.00 --> 2456.00] We confess that we still have our idols -[2456.00 --> 2462.00] Whether it be money, career, possessions, politics, ideology -[2462.00 --> 2467.00] Anything that we give preeminence to rather than to you -[2467.00 --> 2471.00] Help us to remember to focus our attention on you -[2471.00 --> 2475.00] Because in you we live and breathe and have our being -[2475.00 --> 2479.00] Father, we thank you for the good things in our lives -[2479.00 --> 2481.00] We thank you for the weather that we have today -[2481.00 --> 2484.00] Where we can see the blue sky and to enjoy your creation -[2484.00 --> 2487.00] And we say that this is the day that the Lord has made -[2487.00 --> 2490.00] We rejoice and be glad in it -[2490.00 --> 2493.00] Father, we thank you for the leadership of our church -[2493.00 --> 2495.00] And thank you for Pastor Chris and Pastor Kevin -[2495.00 --> 2499.00] We ask that you help them to faithfully share your word with us -[2499.00 --> 2503.00] We thank you for the many ministries and many volunteers that we have in our church -[2503.00 --> 2512.00] Whether it be nursery, children's worship time, gems, youth, young adults, coffee break, care groups, seniors, and men's groups -[2512.00 --> 2517.00] Particularly, we thank you for the cadets and the Calvinist Cadet Corps -[2517.00 --> 2523.00] An organization where men can help boys to be more Christ-like in all areas of life -[2523.00 --> 2527.00] And to help them to live for Jesus in all that they do -[2527.00 --> 2531.00] Father, we thank you for the theme verse that we could have today -[2531.00 --> 2533.00] Coming from Joshua -[2533.00 --> 2537.00] Where as they enter, as the Israelites enter the Promised Land -[2537.00 --> 2541.00] And as we take part in your kingdom -[2541.00 --> 2545.00] Like the Israelites, we consecrate ourselves -[2545.00 --> 2550.00] For tomorrow you will do amazing things among us, for us, and through us -[2550.00 --> 2558.00] Father, we continue to pray for the needs and concerns that our congregation, our greater community, and the world has -[2558.00 --> 2563.00] We pray again for the war in Ukraine, with the unrest that we have there -[2563.00 --> 2566.00] All the people who are suffering from the hardship of war -[2566.00 --> 2570.00] As we think about the escalation that happens -[2570.00 --> 2573.00] And pondering what Western involvement could be -[2573.00 --> 2577.00] We pray that you will be at that troubled place as they go through this troubled time -[2577.00 --> 2580.00] Father, we pray for Margaret De Vries -[2580.00 --> 2582.00] We think about Margaret De Vries -[2582.00 --> 2586.00] A founding member of this church who has passed on -[2586.00 --> 2588.00] She was known and loved by many -[2588.00 --> 2590.00] We thank you for the life that she could lead -[2590.00 --> 2594.00] We ask that you be with the family as they go through a time of grieving -[2594.00 --> 2602.00] We think about Jackie Birkenpass with getting her CAT scan to pinpoint the correct location of her cancer -[2602.00 --> 2607.00] And we pray for wisdom and insight that they will be able to figure out what is the next step in her treatment -[2607.00 --> 2610.00] We pray for Benita Smith -[2610.00 --> 2617.00] We thank you for the good news that currently they cannot locate any mass of cancer -[2617.00 --> 2621.00] We pray that you will keep watch over her as she watches over her health -[2621.00 --> 2628.00] We think about the passing of Helen Hanson, Maria Grimm's stepmother -[2628.00 --> 2631.00] And we pray that they will feel your comfort too -[2631.00 --> 2637.00] We pray for Terry Meshaw, Leanne's father -[2637.00 --> 2642.00] We thank you for her bit of progress as he continues to face his illness and face his cancer -[2642.00 --> 2645.00] We pray that you will be very close to them -[2645.00 --> 2648.00] We think about Ellen White who fell and injured her knee -[2648.00 --> 2652.00] We, it will be, she will be immobile for a little while -[2652.00 --> 2657.00] We pray that you will be with her as she goes through that recovery -[2657.00 --> 2660.00] And that she will feel the love and presence of people around her -[2660.00 --> 2662.00] And that she will feel it from you too -[2662.00 --> 2667.00] And we think about the serious accident for Art and Jeanette -[2667.00 --> 2671.00] With the loss of Art's life -[2671.00 --> 2674.00] It's difficult news to hear -[2674.00 --> 2677.00] We pray that you will be with Peter and everyone in his family -[2677.00 --> 2680.00] That they will feel your love and your presence -[2680.00 --> 2683.00] Father, we pray for us too -[2683.00 --> 2686.00] We look forward to this service ahead for this Cadet Sunday -[2686.00 --> 2690.00] And the theme that we get to experience -[2690.00 --> 2693.00] Because you are amazing -[2693.00 --> 2695.00] Amen -[2710.00 --> 2720.00] Early in the morning, Joshua and all the Israelites set out from Shittim and went to the Jordan -[2720.00 --> 2723.00] Where they camped before crossing over -[2723.00 --> 2728.00] After three days, the officers went throughout the camp, giving orders to the people -[2728.00 --> 2731.00] When you see the ark of the covenant -[2731.00 --> 2734.00] The Lord your God and the Levitical priests carrying it -[2734.00 --> 2737.00] You are to move out from your positions and follow it -[2737.00 --> 2740.00] Then you will know which way to go -[2740.00 --> 2742.00] Since you have never been this way before -[2742.00 --> 2746.00] But keep a distance of about 2,000 cubits -[2746.00 --> 2747.00] Between you and the ark -[2747.00 --> 2749.00] Do not go near it -[2749.00 --> 2750.00] Joshua told the people -[2750.00 --> 2753.00] Consecrate yourselves for tomorrow -[2753.00 --> 2755.00] The Lord will do amazing things among you -[2755.00 --> 2758.00] Joshua said to the priests -[2758.00 --> 2760.00] Take up the ark of the covenant -[2760.00 --> 2762.00] And pass on ahead of the people -[2762.00 --> 2764.00] So they took it up and went ahead of them -[2764.00 --> 2766.00] And the Lord said to Joshua -[2766.00 --> 2769.00] Today I will begin to exalt you -[2769.00 --> 2771.00] In the eyes of all Israel -[2771.00 --> 2773.00] So they may know that I am with you -[2773.00 --> 2776.00] As I was with Moses -[2776.00 --> 2779.00] Tell the priests who carry the ark of the covenant -[2779.00 --> 2782.00] When you reach the edge of the Jordan's waters -[2782.00 --> 2785.00] Go and stand in the river -[2788.00 --> 2790.00] Joshua said to the Israelites -[2790.00 --> 2793.00] Come here and listen to the words of the Lord your God -[2793.00 --> 2797.00] This is how you will know that the living God is among you -[2797.00 --> 2800.00] And that he will certainly drive out before you -[2800.00 --> 2802.00] The Canaanites -[2802.00 --> 2803.00] The Hittites -[2803.00 --> 2804.00] The Hivites -[2804.00 --> 2805.00] The Perizzites -[2805.00 --> 2806.00] The Gassizites -[2806.00 --> 2807.00] The Amorites -[2807.00 --> 2808.00] The Amorites -[2808.00 --> 2809.00] And The Jebusites -[2809.00 --> 2811.00] See the ark of the covenant -[2811.00 --> 2814.00] Of the Lord of all the earth -[2814.00 --> 2816.00] Will go into the Jordan ahead of you -[2816.00 --> 2820.00] Now then choose twelve men from the tribes of Israel -[2820.00 --> 2822.00] One from each tribe -[2822.00 --> 2826.00] And as soon as the priests who carry the ark of the Lord -[2826.00 --> 2830.00] The Lord of all the earth set foot in the Jordan -[2830.00 --> 2833.00] Its waters flowing downstream will be cut off -[2833.00 --> 2835.00] And stand up in a heap -[2835.00 --> 2840.00] So when the people broke camp to cross the Jordan -[2840.00 --> 2844.00] The priests carrying the ark of the covenant went ahead of them -[2844.00 --> 2849.00] Now the Jordan is at flood stage all during harvest -[2849.00 --> 2854.00] Yet as soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan -[2854.00 --> 2856.00] And their feet touched the water's end -[2856.00 --> 2859.00] The water from upstream stopped flowing -[2859.00 --> 2863.00] It piled up in a heap a great distance away -[2863.00 --> 2865.00] At a town called Adam -[2865.00 --> 2868.00] In a vincity of Zerathen -[2868.00 --> 2873.00] While the water flowing down to the sea of Abra -[2873.00 --> 2876.00] That is the dead sea was completely cut off -[2876.00 --> 2880.00] So the people crossed over opposite Jericho -[2880.00 --> 2884.00] The priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the Lord -[2884.00 --> 2886.00] Stopped in the middle of the Jordan -[2886.00 --> 2888.00] And stood on dry ground -[2888.00 --> 2891.00] While all Israel passed -[2891.00 --> 2894.00] Until the whole nation had completely crossed -[2894.00 --> 2897.00] Crossing on dry ground -[2903.00 --> 2918.00] That was Joshua 3 -[2918.00 --> 2921.00] Thanks Austin and Caleb for reading that so well -[2921.00 --> 2924.00] Caleb, or Austin sorry, came up to me before the service -[2924.00 --> 2927.00] And he's like, look at all the names I have to say -[2927.00 --> 2929.00] I told him he could skip it -[2929.00 --> 2931.00] But he did a great job -[2931.00 --> 2934.00] Excellent work, thank you -[2934.00 --> 2937.00] As we had read for us -[2937.00 --> 2941.00] We're going to look at the story that comes in Joshua 3 -[2941.00 --> 2944.00] And in particular our verse -[2944.00 --> 2946.00] We've already said it this morning -[2946.00 --> 2948.00] In our time together -[2948.00 --> 2952.00] And the theme for the boys this year -[2952.00 --> 2954.00] Is amazing -[2954.00 --> 2956.00] And as I understand it -[2956.00 --> 2959.00] As I've looked at your material for the year -[2959.00 --> 2961.00] And at the stuff that you guys have been talking about -[2961.00 --> 2965.00] What I understand that to be -[2965.00 --> 2967.00] And to focus on -[2967.00 --> 2969.00] Is for us and for you boys -[2969.00 --> 2974.00] To see how amazing God is -[2974.00 --> 2980.00] And how God has done amazing things in the world -[2980.00 --> 2984.00] And will do amazing things in you and with you -[2984.00 --> 2990.00] The theme that we are going to focus on then this morning -[2990.00 --> 2992.00] Continues that -[2992.00 --> 2996.00] And I wonder, is there a cadet here -[2996.00 --> 2999.00] Who has that verse memorized? -[2999.00 --> 3002.00] Joshua 3 verse 5 -[3002.00 --> 3005.00] Do any of you have it memorized? -[3009.00 --> 3010.00] Some of the counselors are like -[3010.00 --> 3012.00] I know one of you does -[3012.00 --> 3017.00] Alright, can we put it on the screen? -[3017.00 --> 3020.00] Joshua told the people -[3020.00 --> 3023.00] Consecrate yourselves -[3023.00 --> 3029.00] For tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you -[3029.00 --> 3032.00] Now the idea, right -[3032.00 --> 3035.00] Is that God will do amazing things -[3035.00 --> 3039.00] For and with and among his people -[3039.00 --> 3044.00] And his people need to be ready for it -[3046.00 --> 3048.00] And that's what Joshua is saying -[3048.00 --> 3050.00] Consecrate yourselves -[3050.00 --> 3052.00] Now that's a word that we don't normally use -[3052.00 --> 3054.00] Although you cadets use it -[3054.00 --> 3055.00] Right? -[3055.00 --> 3057.00] A cadet must be -[3057.00 --> 3058.00] Reverent -[3058.00 --> 3059.00] Obedient -[3059.00 --> 3061.00] Consecrated -[3061.00 --> 3064.00] How many of you know what that word means -[3064.00 --> 3065.00] Every time you say it? -[3067.00 --> 3069.00] How many of you counselors know what that word means -[3069.00 --> 3071.00] Every time you make the boys say it? -[3071.00 --> 3073.00] Sort of? -[3073.00 --> 3074.00] Maybe? -[3074.00 --> 3075.00] Maybe? -[3075.00 --> 3077.00] So consecrated -[3077.00 --> 3079.00] That means to be set apart -[3079.00 --> 3080.00] Right? -[3080.00 --> 3081.00] To be set apart -[3081.00 --> 3082.00] For a purpose -[3083.00 --> 3085.00] To be made holy -[3085.00 --> 3087.00] Actually in Hebrew -[3087.00 --> 3088.00] The word shares a root -[3088.00 --> 3090.00] With the word that we also translate -[3090.00 --> 3091.00] Holy -[3092.00 --> 3093.00] And so God is saying -[3093.00 --> 3095.00] Set yourselves apart -[3095.00 --> 3096.00] Be ready -[3096.00 --> 3099.00] Because I'm going to do amazing things -[3099.00 --> 3102.00] I want you to be ready to see -[3102.00 --> 3104.00] What I am going to do -[3104.00 --> 3105.00] And so that when you see it -[3105.00 --> 3107.00] You can know that it is me -[3107.00 --> 3108.00] God -[3108.00 --> 3109.00] Doing those things -[3111.00 --> 3115.00] And so God wants us to be able to recognize him -[3116.00 --> 3118.00] And he wants you to know -[3118.00 --> 3120.00] What he is asking of you -[3121.00 --> 3124.00] That's what the story in Joshua 3 is about -[3124.00 --> 3127.00] That's what's going on in that text -[3127.00 --> 3129.00] And so for the rest of you -[3129.00 --> 3131.00] I'm going to sort of focus in on the boys this morning -[3131.00 --> 3133.00] And you guys get to listen in on that conversation -[3134.00 --> 3136.00] I trust that you'll find a way to make it applicable -[3137.00 --> 3138.00] To your lives -[3139.00 --> 3140.00] And if you can't -[3140.00 --> 3141.00] Well then talk to the boys -[3141.00 --> 3142.00] They'll tell you how to do it -[3144.00 --> 3145.00] Now here's what I know guys -[3146.00 --> 3148.00] Sometimes when we read Bible stories like this -[3149.00 --> 3150.00] It's really easy to forget -[3151.00 --> 3152.00] That it actually happened -[3153.00 --> 3154.00] That this story -[3155.00 --> 3156.00] Took place in the world -[3156.00 --> 3157.00] That it's not just a story -[3158.00 --> 3159.00] But it's history -[3159.00 --> 3160.00] That it happened in a real place -[3161.00 --> 3162.00] At a real time -[3163.00 --> 3164.00] But because it was like -[3165.00 --> 3167.00] 3,000 or 3,500 years ago -[3168.00 --> 3170.00] Sometimes it's really hard to remember that -[3171.00 --> 3172.00] To make that connection -[3173.00 --> 3174.00] And so to start for you -[3175.00 --> 3176.00] I want you to see it -[3177.00 --> 3178.00] And so Tara can we put the first -[3179.00 --> 3180.00] So who knows what this is -[3181.00 --> 3182.00] Just shout it out -[3183.00 --> 3184.00] Earth -[3184.00 --> 3185.00] Earth -[3185.00 --> 3186.00] Earth -[3186.00 --> 3187.00] Excellent. Now first thing to notice -[3187.00 --> 3188.00] Look it's round -[3190.00 --> 3191.00] Now right in the middle of Earth -[3192.00 --> 3193.00] From this vantage point -[3194.00 --> 3195.00] Right there -[3197.00 --> 3198.00] Israel, thank you -[3199.00 --> 3200.00] We got a keener up front -[3200.00 --> 3201.00] I'm going to zone in on you now -[3202.00 --> 3203.00] You're my guy -[3204.00 --> 3205.00] That's right, right here is Israel -[3206.00 --> 3207.00] Now what I want you to pay particular attention to -[3208.00 --> 3210.00] Is what color is all of this? -[3210.00 --> 3211.00] Brown -[3211.00 --> 3212.00] Why do you think that is? -[3213.00 --> 3214.00] Desert. -[3215.00 --> 3216.00] Very good. Okay, so remember -[3217.00 --> 3218.00] Israel in the middle of a desert -[3219.00 --> 3220.00] Next picture, we're going to zoom in just a little bit -[3221.00 --> 3222.00] So this is -[3223.00 --> 3224.00] Here, Israel -[3225.00 --> 3226.00] The region that we're talking about -[3227.00 --> 3228.00] Is right up here -[3229.00 --> 3230.00] So this little piece of water -[3231.00 --> 3232.00] Anyone know what that one is? -[3232.00 --> 3233.00] It was mentioned in our text -[3233.00 --> 3234.00] I'm going to go to this side now -[3234.00 --> 3239.00] The Jordan River flows down into this lake -[3240.00 --> 3241.00] Or I'll say sea -[3243.00 --> 3244.00] Dead sea -[3244.00 --> 3245.00] Very good -[3246.00 --> 3248.00] Now, did you know the Dead Sea is called the Dead Sea -[3249.00 --> 3251.00] Because it is so salinated -[3252.00 --> 3253.00] That it is so full of salt -[3254.00 --> 3255.00] That if you drink just a glass full of it -[3256.00 --> 3257.00] You will die -[3257.00 --> 3258.00] Your insides will shrivel up -[3259.00 --> 3261.00] Because it sucks all the moisture out of your body -[3262.00 --> 3265.00] So imagine, okay, here's the context of the story -[3266.00 --> 3267.00] You are the Israelites -[3268.00 --> 3270.00] You have left Egypt, which is this beautiful fertile place over here -[3271.00 --> 3273.00] You've wandered down here to somewhere around Mount Sinai -[3274.00 --> 3275.00] You came up to the land -[3276.00 --> 3277.00] You failed God's provisions -[3278.00 --> 3280.00] And so you had to wander all through this region for 40 years -[3281.00 --> 3283.00] Not a whole lot of water to be found -[3283.00 --> 3285.00] That isn't this down here -[3286.00 --> 3287.00] The Gulf of Aqaba is also salty water -[3288.00 --> 3289.00] Right? -[3289.00 --> 3290.00] Not a whole lot of drinkable water to be found throughout here -[3291.00 --> 3293.00] And then you come up to this region over here -[3294.00 --> 3297.00] And you see this beautiful, massive lake of gorgeous water -[3298.00 --> 3299.00] And you run down -[3300.00 --> 3302.00] Because you haven't seen so much water in 40 years -[3303.00 --> 3304.00] And you take a drink of it -[3305.00 --> 3306.00] And you spit it out -[3307.00 --> 3308.00] Hopefully you don't drink so much that you die -[3309.00 --> 3310.00] Right? -[3311.00 --> 3312.00] So here they are -[3312.00 --> 3313.00] Okay, let's go to the next one -[3314.00 --> 3315.00] Alright, so here again -[3316.00 --> 3317.00] Now we've turned it into a map -[3318.00 --> 3319.00] Right? -[3319.00 --> 3320.00] Is the Dead Sea -[3320.00 --> 3321.00] So you can see exactly where we're happening -[3322.00 --> 3323.00] Right here -[3324.00 --> 3325.00] Is where the Israelites would have camped -[3326.00 --> 3327.00] This is Mount Nebo -[3327.00 --> 3328.00] We didn't read about it in our story -[3329.00 --> 3330.00] But this is where Moses meets with God -[3331.00 --> 3333.00] Because Moses isn't allowed to enter into the Promised Land -[3334.00 --> 3336.00] But when he has his leadership exchange with Joshua -[3337.00 --> 3338.00] That's where that takes place -[3338.00 --> 3341.00] Moses goes up Mount Nebo to be with the Lord -[3341.00 --> 3343.00] Probably where he died or where his body is buried -[3344.00 --> 3345.00] And the Israelites camp right here -[3346.00 --> 3347.00] And then across the Jordan River -[3348.00 --> 3349.00] Which runs here -[3350.00 --> 3351.00] Is the city of Jericho -[3352.00 --> 3355.00] That's the first city that they're about to enter into -[3356.00 --> 3357.00] Okay? -[3357.00 --> 3358.00] The next one -[3359.00 --> 3360.00] Tara, next slide -[3361.00 --> 3362.00] Alright, so this -[3362.00 --> 3364.00] It's hard to see because this picture was taken at dusk -[3365.00 --> 3370.00] But this is from when I was in Israel with my wife and a group of other pastors -[3371.00 --> 3372.00] And we are standing on Mount Nebo -[3373.00 --> 3376.00] And right here is the valley where the Israelites would have camped -[3377.00 --> 3378.00] And over here you can barely see it -[3378.00 --> 3380.00] But that's the northern edge of the Dead Sea -[3381.00 --> 3382.00] And then running through here -[3383.00 --> 3385.00] Is the Jordan River -[3386.00 --> 3387.00] Now again, it's hard to see -[3388.00 --> 3389.00] But this is all desert -[3390.00 --> 3392.00] And this is where they would have camped -[3393.00 --> 3394.00] And where we pick up our story -[3395.00 --> 3397.00] As they wait to cross the Jordan River -[3398.00 --> 3399.00] And get into the land -[3400.00 --> 3402.00] Now again, it's a desert -[3403.00 --> 3405.00] And they're waiting to cross the Jordan -[3405.00 --> 3407.00] And Joshua says to the Israelites -[3408.00 --> 3410.00] Verse 9, if you have your Bibles and are following along -[3411.00 --> 3413.00] Come here and listen to the words of the Lord your God -[3414.00 --> 3417.00] This is how you will know that the living God is among you -[3418.00 --> 3419.00] And that he will certainly drive out before you -[3420.00 --> 3424.00] The Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites, and Jebusites -[3425.00 --> 3427.00] See the ark of the covenant of the Lord -[3428.00 --> 3430.00] And of all the earth will go into the Jordan ahead of you -[3430.00 --> 3435.00] Now then, he says, choose twelve men from the tribes of Israel -[3436.00 --> 3437.00] One from each tribe -[3438.00 --> 3439.00] And as soon as the priests who carry the ark of the Lord -[3440.00 --> 3442.00] The Lord of all the earth set foot in the Jordan -[3443.00 --> 3445.00] Its waters will stop flowing downstream -[3446.00 --> 3447.00] And will be cut off -[3448.00 --> 3450.00] And stand up in a heap -[3451.00 --> 3456.00] God says, this is how you will know -[3456.00 --> 3461.00] God is proving himself to his people -[3462.00 --> 3463.00] He's proving his protection -[3464.00 --> 3465.00] He's proving his purpose -[3466.00 --> 3467.00] He's proving his plan -[3468.00 --> 3469.00] He's proving his choosing of them -[3470.00 --> 3471.00] And his being with them -[3472.00 --> 3475.00] Right? And he's done this for them countless times before -[3476.00 --> 3478.00] Again, think of where the Israelites have just come from -[3479.00 --> 3480.00] Right? They've spent forty years -[3480.00 --> 3482.00] wandering in the desert wilderness -[3483.00 --> 3485.00] Having to depend on God for everything -[3486.00 --> 3487.00] And I gotta tell you -[3488.00 --> 3489.00] Right? If you've never been to a desert -[3490.00 --> 3491.00] The desert is death -[3492.00 --> 3493.00] Right? Without God -[3494.00 --> 3495.00] A group that large -[3495.00 --> 3496.00] Probably numbering somewhere around two million -[3497.00 --> 3498.00] By conservative estimates -[3499.00 --> 3500.00] Would never have been able to survive -[3501.00 --> 3502.00] Unless God had provided for them -[3503.00 --> 3505.00] And so when we read this story -[3505.00 --> 3510.00] Right? The author here wants you to think about another story -[3511.00 --> 3514.00] Another time that God provided for his people -[3515.00 --> 3519.00] Do you remember a story about God stopping water and them crossing on dry ground? -[3520.00 --> 3521.00] Anyone? Yep? -[3522.00 --> 3524.00] The Red Sea or the Sea of Reeds -[3525.00 --> 3526.00] That's right, some forty years before -[3527.00 --> 3528.00] Forty-three or forty-five years before -[3529.00 --> 3530.00] The people were leaving Egypt -[3530.00 --> 3531.00] And Pharaoh had finally let them go -[3532.00 --> 3533.00] And they leave and they travel -[3534.00 --> 3537.00] And they come to another impossibly large body of water -[3538.00 --> 3540.00] They cannot cross it on their own -[3541.00 --> 3544.00] And as soon as they reach this body of water -[3545.00 --> 3546.00] About then, Pharaoh has a change of heart -[3547.00 --> 3548.00] And he says, no, I want them back -[3549.00 --> 3550.00] So he sends his armies out to get them -[3551.00 --> 3552.00] And to gather them and to take them back -[3553.00 --> 3554.00] And so they have the water in front of them -[3555.00 --> 3556.00] And the armies of Pharaoh behind them -[3557.00 --> 3560.00] Now God moves in between in the story -[3561.00 --> 3563.00] And he blocks Pharaoh's army from being able to see -[3564.00 --> 3565.00] And then a wind picks up and it blows all night -[3566.00 --> 3568.00] And when they look again in the morning -[3569.00 --> 3570.00] The sea in front of them -[3571.00 --> 3572.00] The Sea of Reeds in front of them -[3573.00 --> 3574.00] Has a path cut through -[3575.00 --> 3576.00] Where there's dry ground for them to walk on -[3577.00 --> 3578.00] Long enough and wide enough for the whole people to walk through -[3579.00 --> 3580.00] And get to the other side -[3581.00 --> 3583.00] Now that moment, them walking through -[3583.00 --> 3585.00] Right, at that moment -[3585.00 --> 3588.00] Helped to solidify Moses as their leader -[3589.00 --> 3592.00] Fast forward 45 years later -[3593.00 --> 3596.00] This moment will help solidify Joshua -[3597.00 --> 3598.00] As the new leader of the people -[3599.00 --> 3601.00] Right, in verse 7 -[3602.00 --> 3603.00] God says to Joshua -[3604.00 --> 3606.00] Today I will begin to exalt you in the eyes of all Israel -[3607.00 --> 3611.00] So that they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses -[3611.00 --> 3614.00] And so, here they stand -[3615.00 --> 3616.00] Recalling that history -[3616.00 --> 3618.00] With this impossible amount of water in front of them -[3619.00 --> 3620.00] When the people broke camp -[3621.00 --> 3622.00] Verse 14 -[3623.00 --> 3624.00] To cross the Jordan -[3624.00 --> 3625.00] The priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant -[3626.00 --> 3627.00] Went ahead of them -[3628.00 --> 3629.00] Now the Jordan is at flood stage -[3630.00 --> 3631.00] All during harvest -[3632.00 --> 3633.00] Yet as soon as the priests who carried the Ark reached the Jordan -[3634.00 --> 3635.00] And their feet touched the water's edge -[3636.00 --> 3638.00] The water from upstream stopped flowing -[3638.00 --> 3640.00] Now -[3641.00 --> 3643.00] You need eyes to see it -[3644.00 --> 3647.00] But there's this something amazing happening in this text -[3648.00 --> 3649.00] Right? -[3649.00 --> 3652.00] It said that the Jordan is at flood stage all during harvest -[3653.00 --> 3655.00] Now there are a bunch of clues in this story -[3656.00 --> 3657.00] That tell us when it happened -[3658.00 --> 3662.00] And that it took place sometime during mid-March or early April -[3662.00 --> 3664.00] So in the book of Joshua -[3665.00 --> 3666.00] If we look in chapter 4 verse 19 -[3667.00 --> 3668.00] Which is the next part of this story -[3669.00 --> 3670.00] So it's the same event -[3671.00 --> 3672.00] Still part of the same story -[3673.00 --> 3675.00] It tells us actually that it was on the tenth day of the first month -[3676.00 --> 3677.00] Which in the Hebrew calendar is Abib -[3678.00 --> 3679.00] Or Nisan -[3680.00 --> 3682.00] Which in our calendar is the end of March or early April -[3683.00 --> 3686.00] The second way that we can know that when this happened -[3686.00 --> 3691.00] Is because we know that the barley harvest and the flax harvest -[3692.00 --> 3693.00] Come up together in this region -[3694.00 --> 3695.00] They happen at the same time -[3696.00 --> 3698.00] Now three days before the story that we read -[3699.00 --> 3701.00] Another really famous story in the book of Joshua happens in Joshua 2 -[3702.00 --> 3704.00] Right? You hear about two spies who sneak into Jericho -[3705.00 --> 3707.00] Right? So they can go see what's going on there -[3708.00 --> 3710.00] And the people who live there found out about them -[3710.00 --> 3712.00] And the spies have to hide and they go to someone's house -[3713.00 --> 3714.00] Anyone? -[3716.00 --> 3717.00] Rahab's house, that's right -[3718.00 --> 3719.00] And Rahab has to hide them -[3720.00 --> 3721.00] She hides them on the roof of her house -[3721.00 --> 3723.00] Which is built into the famous walls around Jericho -[3723.00 --> 3724.00] What does she hide them under? -[3725.00 --> 3726.00] Flax -[3727.00 --> 3728.00] That's right -[3729.00 --> 3731.00] She hides them under the recently harvested flax -[3732.00 --> 3733.00] That would be on her roof drying out -[3734.00 --> 3737.00] This happens at the same time as the barley harvest -[3737.00 --> 3738.00] End of March -[3739.00 --> 3740.00] Early April -[3741.00 --> 3742.00] Now why does that matter? -[3743.00 --> 3744.00] Because if that's the timeframe -[3745.00 --> 3747.00] Right? At this time of year -[3748.00 --> 3750.00] In that region, the snow from Mount Hermon -[3751.00 --> 3752.00] Which is way to the north in the Lebanese mountain range -[3753.00 --> 3755.00] Would run down into the Jordan -[3756.00 --> 3758.00] And then the rainy season is just finishing -[3759.00 --> 3762.00] And so the rivers that would have been developed over the rainy season -[3763.00 --> 3764.00] Are all filling into the Jordan -[3764.00 --> 3768.00] And this makes the river spill over its banks -[3769.00 --> 3771.00] And not just the first level of banks -[3772.00 --> 3773.00] But the second level -[3773.00 --> 3774.00] And the third level of banks -[3775.00 --> 3778.00] Now I love little historical tidbits here -[3779.00 --> 3780.00] Like you can see in the story -[3780.00 --> 3782.00] Because it makes the Bible even more real to me -[3783.00 --> 3786.00] And it shows us a more real picture of God -[3786.00 --> 3792.00] And so when we read that the Jordan is at flood stage during harvest -[3793.00 --> 3797.00] And even that actually isn't enough of what's going on -[3798.00 --> 3802.00] In Hebrew again, it says the Jordan overflowed all its banks all of harvest -[3803.00 --> 3806.00] And this isn't just an ordinary snow melt -[3807.00 --> 3809.00] This is an extraordinary season -[3809.00 --> 3813.00] Now if you go to the Jordan River today -[3814.00 --> 3817.00] It pales in comparison to what it used to be -[3818.00 --> 3819.00] Especially during harvest season -[3820.00 --> 3823.00] Today, some parts of the Jordan River are about 50 feet wide -[3824.00 --> 3826.00] But only about 8 inches deep -[3827.00 --> 3830.00] The vast majority of it is about 15 feet wide -[3831.00 --> 3832.00] And maybe 3 or 4 feet deep -[3833.00 --> 3835.00] And it still floods and fills the banks in the rainy season -[3835.00 --> 3836.00] And with the snow melt -[3837.00 --> 3839.00] But the levels that make it to the Jordan River -[3840.00 --> 3843.00] Are actually really carefully controlled by the Israeli and Jordanian governments -[3844.00 --> 3847.00] Because it's one of the few sources of fresh water for the people who live there to be able to drink -[3848.00 --> 3849.00] And so they have to manage it very carefully -[3850.00 --> 3853.00] But you can't get a sense walking today -[3854.00 --> 3856.00] What it would have looked like then -[3857.00 --> 3860.00] But even still, as you approach the Jordan today -[3861.00 --> 3864.00] Especially if you do it on foot for the Jordan today -[3865.00 --> 3867.00] From the east, from the Jordanian side -[3868.00 --> 3869.00] Like we did when we were there -[3870.00 --> 3874.00] You get a clear sense that there's 3 sort of tiers of banks -[3875.00 --> 3877.00] That you're walking down these 3 tiers of banks -[3878.00 --> 3880.00] And in fact there's all sorts of really neat historical records -[3881.00 --> 3884.00] That talk about that from the 19th century and the 16th century -[3885.00 --> 3887.00] And even the 1st century Jewish historian named Josephus -[3888.00 --> 3889.00] Anyway, you don't care about that like I do -[3890.00 --> 3893.00] Point is, as you're walking down these banks -[3893.00 --> 3899.00] You get a sense that the Jordan River has been carefully designed and cultivated and prepared -[3900.00 --> 3902.00] To take on these seasons of its flowing -[3903.00 --> 3904.00] And so when it's overflowing all the banks -[3905.00 --> 3907.00] That means it's gone beyond anyone's control -[3908.00 --> 3911.00] And in fact even today as you walk down those tiers of banks -[3912.00 --> 3914.00] It sort of feels like you're walking into a jungle -[3914.00 --> 3918.00] Now after you spent time in the desert -[3919.00 --> 3924.00] Walking into this really strange jungle is a very surreal feeling -[3925.00 --> 3927.00] I have some pictures here too, the next one -[3928.00 --> 3930.00] Right, if you see here, like this is -[3931.00 --> 3934.00] We've just, as our group, spent a week in the desert -[3935.00 --> 3939.00] And now we're in this jungle and the humidity is dense and real -[3939.00 --> 3941.00] And humidity in the desert doesn't actually happen -[3942.00 --> 3944.00] But because of all the growth that's here -[3945.00 --> 3948.00] It just feels weird and we're 400 meters below sea level -[3949.00 --> 3950.00] So that's even more weird -[3951.00 --> 3952.00] That in the next one you'll see -[3953.00 --> 3955.00] We're just looking for a place to find shade -[3956.00 --> 3957.00] Right, it's still 36 degrees out -[3958.00 --> 3960.00] But we're trying to find a spot -[3960.00 --> 3964.00] Now imagine 40 years wandering in the desert -[3965.00 --> 3966.00] Getting water from a rock, right -[3967.00 --> 3968.00] Relying on God to provide for you for everything -[3969.00 --> 3972.00] And then you see this river which is overflowing its banks -[3973.00 --> 3977.00] Probably would have been some 500 feet or so wide at this point -[3978.00 --> 3981.00] Right, this would look like the Fraser River at the end of May -[3982.00 --> 3986.00] Right, you know when you're told not to go swimming in the Fraser River -[3986.00 --> 3988.00] At the end of May -[3989.00 --> 3991.00] Because the water is just voluminous -[3992.00 --> 3995.00] The torrent is incredible and it's cold mountain water -[3996.00 --> 3997.00] That's what this would have looked like -[3998.00 --> 4001.00] And the people would have seen it and they would remember the Nile in Egypt -[4002.00 --> 4004.00] Or at least they would have heard stories of the Nile in Egypt -[4005.00 --> 4006.00] And in Egypt the Nile is life -[4007.00 --> 4008.00] The river is life -[4009.00 --> 4012.00] The Nile is the blessing of the gods according to the Egyptians -[4012.00 --> 4016.00] And here for the first time in a generation -[4017.00 --> 4019.00] These people see life in the midst of a desert -[4020.00 --> 4025.00] Now that parallel again, right, is really important -[4026.00 --> 4030.00] Back to Egypt where they look at the river and they see their gods' protection -[4031.00 --> 4034.00] Because the same thing would have happened for the people who lived in Jericho -[4035.00 --> 4036.00] The Canaanites there too -[4036.00 --> 4038.00] For the Canaanites who lived in Jericho -[4039.00 --> 4043.00] The river is their gods' protection from attack from the east -[4044.00 --> 4046.00] Right, Baal is the name of their god -[4047.00 --> 4049.00] Rahab told the spies a few days earlier -[4050.00 --> 4052.00] A great fear of you has fallen on us -[4053.00 --> 4055.00] So that all who live in this country are melting with fear -[4055.00 --> 4062.00] The people of Jericho are scared because they have heard and now they see this massive nation on the move -[4063.00 --> 4066.00] But at the same time, the Jordan is all over all its banks -[4067.00 --> 4070.00] Baal's protection of them is as strong as it can be right now -[4071.00 --> 4076.00] Right, they believe that their god's protection was at the highest point that it could possibly be for them -[4077.00 --> 4079.00] And so see that -[4080.00 --> 4086.00] Because this story about God doing amazing things isn't just about people trusting God -[4087.00 --> 4091.00] This story isn't just setting the stage for a war between two people groups -[4092.00 --> 4094.00] This is a story about God and gods -[4095.00 --> 4100.00] About the god of the Bible being stronger than the gods of the Canaanites -[4100.00 --> 4103.00] And so the time comes now -[4104.00 --> 4106.00] Where they have to step into the river -[4107.00 --> 4112.00] The priests and the twelve men, one from each tribe, have to step into the river -[4113.00 --> 4116.00] Now they are representatives of the whole nation -[4117.00 --> 4118.00] Right, you read that in verse 12 -[4119.00 --> 4124.00] All the people have to figuratively step into the river before God does something -[4125.00 --> 4130.00] Now this is a different part of the story than in the Sea of Reeds or the Red Sea -[4131.00 --> 4135.00] Right, in the Red Sea, they waited and they watched God work -[4136.00 --> 4138.00] They woke up and the sea was ready for them to cross on -[4139.00 --> 4142.00] Now, God is saying, step into the river -[4143.00 --> 4145.00] Then I will do something -[4146.00 --> 4148.00] Now, God is saying, consecrate yourselves -[4149.00 --> 4151.00] For I'm going to do amazing things -[4151.00 --> 4154.00] You see, the whole point of that wilderness journey -[4154.00 --> 4155.00] The whole point of walking in the desert -[4156.00 --> 4157.00] Was learning to trust God -[4158.00 --> 4160.00] Learning to really, really hear Him -[4161.00 --> 4162.00] To hear Him and to obey Him -[4163.00 --> 4164.00] And to be moved in heart -[4165.00 --> 4167.00] To have their lives changed because of Him -[4168.00 --> 4169.00] To really love the Lord with all of their heart -[4170.00 --> 4171.00] With all of their soul -[4171.00 --> 4172.00] With all of their strength -[4173.00 --> 4175.00] So God says, consecrate yourselves -[4176.00 --> 4177.00] Make yourselves ready -[4177.00 --> 4180.00] Stand up, stand out, be holy -[4181.00 --> 4183.00] You are marked with a purpose -[4184.00 --> 4188.00] And He says the same thing to you boys today -[4189.00 --> 4191.00] Stand up, stand out -[4192.00 --> 4193.00] Be holy -[4194.00 --> 4197.00] You are marked with a purpose -[4198.00 --> 4200.00] God invites them to work -[4201.00 --> 4203.00] They need to show that they've learned something -[4203.00 --> 4204.00] That they will have faith -[4204.00 --> 4206.00] That when God says, walk -[4207.00 --> 4208.00] They will walk -[4209.00 --> 4212.00] A faith that trusts even in the midst of something scary -[4213.00 --> 4215.00] As stepping into a raging river -[4216.00 --> 4217.00] And I want to be really clear -[4218.00 --> 4220.00] This isn't a proof for God -[4221.00 --> 4223.00] It's a proof for the people -[4224.00 --> 4226.00] Right, God knows the heart -[4227.00 --> 4228.00] God knows everything -[4228.00 --> 4229.00] He sees everything -[4229.00 --> 4231.00] This moment is a proof for them -[4232.00 --> 4234.00] To see that they really believe -[4235.00 --> 4236.00] That they really trust -[4237.00 --> 4239.00] Will they trust God -[4240.00 --> 4242.00] And follow Him wherever He leads -[4243.00 --> 4244.00] Real faith -[4245.00 --> 4247.00] The kind of faith that your counselors hope will grow in you -[4248.00 --> 4251.00] The kind of faith that your churches and your parents -[4252.00 --> 4255.00] And your pastors pray over you and for you -[4255.00 --> 4258.00] Real faith takes risks -[4258.00 --> 4259.00] Real faith takes risks -[4261.00 --> 4268.00] Look, God can and God will do amazing things among us -[4270.00 --> 4272.00] But there is a river for you to step in -[4273.00 --> 4275.00] There is a risk for you to take -[4276.00 --> 4279.00] There is a faith for you to lay hold of -[4279.00 --> 4282.00] But can I also say that now -[4283.00 --> 4284.00] Now -[4285.00 --> 4288.00] 3,000 years after this story -[4289.00 --> 4291.00] Faith looks different -[4292.00 --> 4295.00] Things are different now than they were for the Israelites -[4296.00 --> 4300.00] Not just because now we have iPhones that we can carry in our pockets -[4301.00 --> 4304.00] Not now because, just because instead of looking for water -[4304.00 --> 4305.00] What you are trying to do is -[4306.00 --> 4310.00] Get the next opportunity to play Fortnite or Minecraft or whatever it is that you are doing -[4311.00 --> 4312.00] Faith looks different now -[4313.00 --> 4314.00] Because of a man -[4315.00 --> 4317.00] A man -[4318.00 --> 4319.00] Named Jesus -[4320.00 --> 4323.00] Tara, if you put the baptism slide up -[4324.00 --> 4326.00] Centuries after this story -[4327.00 --> 4331.00] Another Israelite would come to this exact spot likely -[4331.00 --> 4334.00] And he would cross the river -[4335.00 --> 4337.00] He would begin a journey in the land -[4338.00 --> 4339.00] Jesus would come to John the Baptist -[4340.00 --> 4341.00] And at this spot -[4342.00 --> 4343.00] Pictured here -[4344.00 --> 4345.00] He would be baptized -[4346.00 --> 4350.00] And God would confirm for him and for all to see that this man -[4351.00 --> 4353.00] Jesus was his son -[4353.00 --> 4357.00] Jesus was baptized and a voice from heaven spoke -[4358.00 --> 4359.00] This is my son -[4360.00 --> 4361.00] Whom I love -[4362.00 --> 4368.00] And Jesus came up out of that river empowered by God to do some amazing things -[4369.00 --> 4372.00] He came up out of that river with a mission to serve -[4373.00 --> 4376.00] Cadets each week when you gather and you say -[4377.00 --> 4378.00] Cadet what is your motto? -[4379.00 --> 4380.00] Living for Jesus -[4380.00 --> 4381.00] For Jesus -[4382.00 --> 4385.00] Know that you are saying living for Jesus means living like -[4386.00 --> 4387.00] Jesus -[4388.00 --> 4394.00] And know that you are called to live like Jesus because Jesus lived for you -[4395.00 --> 4398.00] And that the same voice that spoke to him in that river -[4399.00 --> 4401.00] This is my son whom I love now speaks to you -[4402.00 --> 4404.00] You are my sons -[4405.00 --> 4406.00] Whom I love -[4406.00 --> 4410.00] Faith makes you take risks -[4411.00 --> 4414.00] Faith will make you do some pretty wild things -[4415.00 --> 4419.00] Some things that may not make sense to any of your friends who don't share your same faith -[4420.00 --> 4427.00] But be assured faith never calls you to do those things alone -[4428.00 --> 4429.00] You have each other -[4430.00 --> 4432.00] You have us, you have the church, you have your family -[4432.00 --> 4434.00] And so consecrate yourselves -[4435.00 --> 4439.00] For today the Lord will do amazing things -[4440.00 --> 4441.00] Consecrate yourselves -[4442.00 --> 4446.00] Make yourselves ready to step out in faith -[4447.00 --> 4448.00] Cadets say it with me -[4449.00 --> 4461.00] A cadet must be reverent, obedient, compassionate, consecrated, trustworthy, pure, grateful, loyal, industrious, and cheerful -[4462.00 --> 4465.00] A generation of boys who become men that are defined like that -[4465.00 --> 4467.00] In the church as well as you are -[4468.00 --> 4469.00] In the church as well as you are -[4470.00 --> 4471.00] And I can still say that from memory from when I was your age -[4472.00 --> 4475.00] That's what it means to be set apart for God to do amazing things among you and with you -[4476.00 --> 4488.00] And can I just say that a generation of boys like you who become men that are reverent, obedient, compassionate, consecrated, trustworthy, pure, grateful, loyal, industrious, and cheerful -[4488.00 --> 4491.00] A generation of boys who become men that are defined like that -[4491.00 --> 4494.00] That would change the world -[4495.00 --> 4497.00] That's what the world is hungry for -[4498.00 --> 4501.00] He made you -[4502.00 --> 4503.00] He knows you -[4504.00 --> 4505.00] He loves you -[4506.00 --> 4508.00] He sees you and he watches over you -[4509.00 --> 4511.00] That is amazing -[4511.00 --> 4516.00] And now he's asking you to step into the river -[4517.00 --> 4518.00] He has plans for you cadets -[4519.00 --> 4523.00] And he will do amazing things not only among you but through you and in you -[4524.00 --> 4525.00] Commit yourselves to Jesus -[4526.00 --> 4527.00] Follow him -[4527.00 --> 4528.00] Who knows? -[4528.00 --> 4529.00] Who knows? -[4529.00 --> 4530.00] Who knows? -[4530.00 --> 4542.00] How many of you will turn into scientists or doctors or nurses or long haul truck drivers or caregivers or teachers or artists or musicians or missionaries or maybe even pastors or farmers or whatever it is you can add to that list -[4543.00 --> 4544.00] Who knows? -[4544.00 --> 4552.00] How many will come from your cadre from your group here gathered who will give glory to God in all that you do? -[4552.00 --> 4554.00] That changes the world -[4555.00 --> 4561.00] God is in the business of doing amazing things and you are one of them -[4562.00 --> 4563.00] Amen? -[4564.00 --> 4565.00] Let's pray together -[4568.00 --> 4576.00] Lord our God we pray that today you would make yourself known in power to these cadets -[4576.00 --> 4577.00] Jesus -[4577.00 --> 4583.00] Make yourself known in power to these boys that they might grow in the knowledge and faith of you Lord Jesus -[4583.00 --> 4590.00] That they might grow into the men that you are transforming them to be -[4590.00 --> 4609.00] We pray God that as you use the cadet program as you use mentors and parents as you use friends as you use anyone to come alongside and transform us into the image of Jesus Christ that we would be willing servants -[4609.00 --> 4616.00] May we step into the river today -[4616.00 --> 4623.00] And may we with open eyes see how amazing you are -[4624.00 --> 4625.00] In Jesus name we pray -[4626.00 --> 4627.00] Amen -[4627.00 --> 4638.00] We are going to respond to that message with the song living for Jesus this song of course has been sung by cadets -[4639.00 --> 4640.00] From time immemorial -[4641.00 --> 4645.00] Or at least as long as cadets has been around I think and so we're going to do it a little bit differently today -[4645.00 --> 4655.00] I'm actually going to invite the cadets from all of the churches that are here if you could please stand up and I'm going to invite you you're going to come and make a bit of a group right here -[4656.00 --> 4661.00] And lead us in that but it won't be just you so you can come right now and do that please if you don't mind -[4662.00 --> 4674.00] So all of the cadets who are here and the leaders who are in cadets right at this moment come up here stand here and face out and they're going to lead us in the first verse and chorus of this song now they're not going to do it alone -[4675.00 --> 4686.00] I'm also going to ask as they come up here right now if you have been in cadets or have led cadets at any point throughout your lifetime -[4687.00 --> 4691.00] If you could also please right now just stand up in your seats is totally fine -[4692.00 --> 4698.00] And you are going to join these cadets up front in leading verse 1 and the first chorus of that song -[4698.00 --> 4706.00] After verse 1 and the first chorus I'm going to invite the rest of you to rise and we will sing the rest of the song together -[4707.00 --> 4715.00] Now there's one more thing we are going to do this acapella which is often done in cadets so we're going to hear the first note and then sing from there -[4715.00 --> 4723.00] And if you are watching online I'm sorry this might not sound that cool to you because there's not going to be a lot of microphones happening -[4723.00 --> 4726.00] So just bear with us if you're watching online right now -[4726.00 --> 4733.00] So Megan's going to give us the first note and we are going to the cadets are going to lead us through the first verse and song here right now -[4733.00 --> 4735.00] So Megan's singing -[4735.00 --> 4741.00] Living for Jesus a life at his room -[4742.00 --> 4748.00] Striving to please him in all that I do -[4749.00 --> 4755.00] Heal me, O legions, I hearted and free -[4755.00 --> 4761.00] This is the pathway of blessing for me -[4762.00 --> 4765.00] O Jesus Lord and Savior -[4766.00 --> 4768.00] I give myself to thee -[4769.00 --> 4772.00] For you bring thy atonement -[4773.00 --> 4775.00] Did give myself for me -[4776.00 --> 4778.00] I own no other master -[4779.00 --> 4781.00] I give now thee the throne -[4781.00 --> 4785.00] My life I give henceforth to live -[4786.00 --> 4790.00] O Christ for thee alone -[4791.00 --> 4792.00] Please rise -[4793.00 --> 4796.00] Living for Jesus -[4797.00 --> 4800.00] He died in my place -[4801.00 --> 4805.00] Bearing on Calvary my sin and disgrace -[4805.00 --> 4807.00] Such love constraints me -[4808.00 --> 4811.00] Such love constraints me -[4812.00 --> 4814.00] To answer his call -[4815.00 --> 4817.00] Follow his leading -[4818.00 --> 4821.00] And give him my all -[4822.00 --> 4825.00] O Jesus Lord and Savior -[4826.00 --> 4828.00] I give myself to thee -[4828.00 --> 4830.00] For thou in thy atonement -[4830.00 --> 4832.00] For thou in thy atonement -[4833.00 --> 4835.00] Did give myself for thee -[4836.00 --> 4839.00] I own no other master -[4840.00 --> 4842.00] My heart shall be thy throne -[4843.00 --> 4847.00] My life I give henceforth to live -[4848.00 --> 4850.00] O Christ for thee alone -[4850.00 --> 4852.00] Living for Jesus -[4852.00 --> 4853.00] Living for Jesus -[4853.00 --> 4854.00] Wherever I am -[4854.00 --> 4855.00] Living for Jesus -[4855.00 --> 4856.00] Wherever I am -[4857.00 --> 4861.00] To we need to be in His holy name -[4861.00 --> 4870.00] Willing to suffer -[4870.00 --> 4874.00] Suffer, affliction or loss -[4875.00 --> 4877.00] Beating each trial -[4878.00 --> 4881.00] A part of my cross -[4882.00 --> 4885.00] O Jesus Lord and Savior -[4886.00 --> 4888.00] I give myself to thee -[4889.00 --> 4892.00] For thou in thy atonement -[4893.00 --> 4895.00] Did give thyself for me -[4895.00 --> 4896.00] I own no other master -[4896.00 --> 4897.00] I own no other master -[4898.00 --> 4900.00] My heart shall be thy throne -[4901.00 --> 4905.00] My life I give henceforth to live -[4906.00 --> 4910.00] O Christ for thee alone -[4911.00 --> 4912.00] Living for Jesus -[4913.00 --> 4916.00] Through earth in a while -[4916.00 --> 4917.00] My dearest treasure -[4917.00 --> 4927.00] The light of His smile -[4928.00 --> 4931.00] Seeing the lost one -[4932.00 --> 4934.00] He died to redeem -[4935.00 --> 4937.00] Bringing the weary -[4938.00 --> 4941.00] To find rest in Him -[4942.00 --> 4945.00] O Jesus Lord and Savior -[4945.00 --> 4948.00] I give myself to thee -[4949.00 --> 4952.00] For thou in thy atonement -[4953.00 --> 4955.00] Did give thyself for me -[4956.00 --> 4959.00] I own no other master -[4960.00 --> 4962.00] My heart shall be thy throne -[4963.00 --> 4967.00] My life I give henceforth to live -[4968.00 --> 4972.00] O Christ for thee alone -[4972.00 --> 4975.00] Thank you cadets -[4975.00 --> 4976.00] You can make your way back to their seats -[4977.00 --> 4979.00] But everybody can still remain standing please -[4980.00 --> 4984.00] As the cadets make their way back to the seats -[4985.00 --> 4989.00] I just want to invite you to stick around following our worship -[4990.00 --> 4992.00] There's going to be some coffee and fellowship in the back -[4992.00 --> 4999.00] You can check out the table from Emanuel's cadet program where they have some of the crafts and projects that they've worked on -[4999.00 --> 5001.00] Or you can talk to some of these boys here -[5002.00 --> 5008.00] For you cadets who have come there is a lunch that's happening afterwards and that's going to happen in here -[5009.00 --> 5016.00] So at some point not immediately but at some point we're also going to start clearing chairs out of here so we can pull tables out -[5016.00 --> 5027.00] And so if you are a member here and able to help clear some chairs that would be a big help to hear and getting some tables from the back hall and bringing them down that would be good for them as well -[5028.00 --> 5037.00] Following our worship we have a prayer partner who is available and today that prayer partner is going to be available here at the front just off to the side -[5037.00 --> 5042.00] And so if you would like to pray with someone there will be someone up front here with a yellow name tag like mine -[5043.00 --> 5048.00] They will pray with you for you and over you as you go today -[5049.00 --> 5052.00] As we go then go knowing that God goes with us -[5053.00 --> 5060.00] That God has amazing things in store and he gives us his blessing for the journey of life and faith -[5061.00 --> 5064.00] And so receive the blessing of our God -[5067.00 --> 5069.00] The Lord bless you -[5069.00 --> 5070.00] And keep you -[5071.00 --> 5074.00] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you -[5075.00 --> 5080.00] The Lord turn his face towards you and give you his peace -[5081.00 --> 5082.00] All God's people said? -[5083.00 --> 5084.00] Amen -[5097.00 --> 5107.00] The joy of the Lord will be my strength -[5108.00 --> 5113.00] I will not falter, I will not fade -[5114.00 --> 5118.00] He is my shepherd, I am not afraid -[5118.00 --> 5124.00] The joy of the Lord is my strength -[5124.00 --> 5144.00] is my strength the joy of the joy of the lord is my strength -[5144.00 --> 5160.40] the joy of the lord will be my strength he will uphold me all of my days i am surrounded by mercy and grace -[5160.40 --> 5173.44] the joy of the lord is my strength the joy of the joy of the joy of the joy of the lord is my strength -[5174.00 --> 5189.12] the joy of the lord the joy of the lord is my strength the joy of the lord will be my strength -[5189.12 --> 5201.36] and i will not waver walking by faith he will be strong to deliver me safe the joy of the lord is -[5201.36 --> 5215.36] my strength the joy of the joy of the joy of the lord is my strength -[5215.36 --> 5229.36] the joy of the joy of the joy of the lord is my strength -[5229.36 --> 5243.36] so -[5243.36 --> 5257.36] so -[5257.36 --> 5259.36] so -[5259.36 --> 5271.36] so -[5271.36 --> 5273.36] so -[5301.36 --> 5303.36] so -[5331.36 --> 5333.36] so -[5361.36 --> 5363.36] so diff --git a/Sunday Worship - January 30, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - January 30, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index acc0a06847e1bc45b77957f1445c82cf424ab04f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - January 30, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,156 +0,0 @@ -• Repeatedly declaring "I am not my own, but beyond body and soul" -• Expressing worship through singing "hallelujah" with increasing loudness -• Emphasizing God's victory and presence in the midst of struggles -• Praising God's name in various phrases, including "Blessed be your glory", "Blessed be your name", and "The King is alive" -• Acknowledging suffering and pain, but choosing to say "blessed be your name" even in darkness -• Upcoming worship services -• The Lord's Supper celebration on the next Sunday -• Announcements for Easter choir practices starting February 9 -• Meetings for Youth Mexico, including a fundraiser meeting after this service and another meeting next Sunday -• Youth Coffee hours on Sundays -• Introduction to a youth program -• Call to stand and greet God's presence -• Worship service begins with prayer and scripture reading from Revelation 15:3-4 -• Songs of praise and worship, including "Great Are You Lord" and "You Give Light" -• Testimonies of faith and gratitude for God's goodness and mercy -• The goodness of God is being pursued -• A song about God's goodness is sung -• Prayer is offered for recognition of God's love and presence -• Forgiveness is asked for failing to recognize God's presence -• Renewal of hearts, worship, and service are prayed for -• A song about mercy and forgiveness is sung -• The Calvinist Cadet Corps and its mission are mentioned -• Discussing the benefits of prayer -• Children sharing things they pray for (e.g. family members, kittens) -• Places where people pray (church, home, school) -• Importance of praying everywhere and singing to God -• Introduction to the Lord's Prayer in the New Testament -• Invitation to a group prayer -• Praying with a church congregation -• Expressing gratitude for the day, the children, and the leaders -• Asking God to bless the leaders as they share His word with the children -• The blessing of the congregation -• Confessing sins and shortcomings -• Thanking God for Jesus' gift of redemption -• Prayer for the church's ministries and activities -• Praying for specific individuals and needs within the congregation -• Prayer for those affected by ministry and leadership roles -• Prayers for individuals and families experiencing challenges (Jared Alkema, Kevin and Colleen Heinen) -• Prayers for the Canadian branch of the Christian Reformed Church and Pastor Chris leading the search committee -• Prayers for provincial and federal leaders responding to COVID-19 -• Discussion of the pandemic's impact on communities and the need for civility and respect in conversation -• Review of council decisions regarding ministry and serving God's people during COVID-19 -• Introduction to the study of Exodus, focusing on the story of the Ten Plagues and God's love and care for His people -• Moses and Aaron are instructed by God to perform miracles in front of Pharaoh -• Aaron's staff is turned into a snake, but Egyptian magicians also do the same thing -• The water of the Nile is changed into blood, killing fish and making it undrinkable for the Egyptians -• Despite these miracles, Pharaoh's heart remains hard and he refuses to let the Israelites go -• The story introduces the larger unit of the 10 plagues, with the first three being the staff turning into a snake, the Nile turning to blood, and frogs coming next week -• The actual narrative structure breaks down the plagues into three groups of three, with the tenth plague as the climax. -• The story of Aaron's staff turning into a snake eating an Egyptian sorcerer's staff has multiple levels of symbolism -• In Egyptian iconography, the snake represents the pharaoh and is associated with divine power -• The author uses this symbol to show that God is against gods from the beginning -• The Hebrew text uses a different word for snake than usual, which can be translated in various ways, including sea monster, jackal, wild beasts, and serpents -• The Old Testament use of "chaos" or "desolate places" -• Connection between Leviticus 16 and the concept of chaos -• Pharaoh as a symbol of anti-God, anti-creation forces -• The true God's battle against false gods for creation -• The story of Moses and Aaron vs. snakes as an opening move in this battle -• The Nile River as a source of life and death, also worshipped as a god (Happy) -• The Nile's importance in Egyptian life and its reversal by God -• The second plague, the frogs, as an attack on Egypt's fertility goddesses -• Comparison of plagues two to four, which come from water, dust, and air -• Correspondence between these elements and the three sectors of the ecosystem: water, land, and air -• The symbolism of dust as a sign of human mortality and death -• The contrast between Egypt's fertility and the symbol of death introduced by Moses -• The recognition of the one true God among the Egyptians -• The plague of flies, used to demonstrate God's power over creation -• The distinction made between Israelites and Egyptians during the fourth plague -• The attack on Egypt's pantheon of gods through the plague of livestock -• The reversal of creation order to reveal God's power -• Boils on people possibly preventing the reproduction of a specific action -• The seventh plague brings hail and marks the beginning of the final set of three plagues -• Explanation of God's purpose in sending the plagues, referencing Exodus 9:14-16 -• God restrained himself from completely destroying Israel and Pharaoh -• God's true purpose is not just to free Israel but also to show his power and have his name proclaimed throughout the earth -• God's actions in Egypt are to prove his superiority and for the benefit of his own people -• The redemptive actions of God will shape identity for generations to come -• God's work with the Egyptians will be a source of strength and comfort in future struggles -• The Israelites' experiences, including their time in Egypt, will be remembered as God's work -• The Messiah will remind them of God's deeds and show who he is through his life -• Contrast between light and darkness -• The true god vs false gods -• Creation as the battleground for divine sovereignty -• God's creative forces unleashed against claims to divinity -• The plagues and their role in demonstrating God's power -• The exodus as a paradigmatic event shaping Israel's identity and future -• The importance of worshiping God correctly -• The purpose of God showing his power and proclaiming his name on earth -• Telling children and grandchildren about the activity of God in the world -• Understanding faith through experiencing God's work in the world -• Recognizing that the narrative of God's story defines a nation and its people -• The story of the Israelites and the plagues is a paradigmatic event for understanding identity -• The coming of Jesus has similar worldwide implications as the Exodus -• The creation account also proclaims the coming of Jesus -• The story of Jesus is seen as the ultimate retelling of the original events -• Jesus performs miracles, including turning water into wine, multiplying food, healing the sick, walking on water, and commanding storms to cease -• God's presence is evident through these miracles, demonstrating His sovereignty over creation -• The disciples are amazed by Jesus' power and realize that He is God among them -• Jesus declares that He will make His followers witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth, so that all people may know Him -• Peter preaches to the crowd, empowered by the Holy Spirit -• The speaker mentions a promise that will be told to children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, neighbors, and friends. -• Jesus came to live the life the speaker should have lived and died the death they deserved. -• This is in reference to Philippians 2:5-11. -• God exalted Jesus to the highest place and gave him a name above every other name. -• The universal confession of Jesus Christ as Lord -• God's purpose is to reveal his power and name through Jesus -• Why Jesus came: to proclaim God's glory on earth -• Applying biblical themes (plague) by letting the story sink deep into our imaginations -• Impact of the text on understanding God, his purposes, and response to him -• Worship and seeing God in this light -• Exposing false gods and idols, specifically in Egypt -• Questioning one's own discernment and application -• Identifying and exposing false gods within oneself -• The importance of seeking the true source of life and happiness -• Recognizing that what brings happiness may not be God or spirituality -• Infertility and its emotional impact -• Societal pressure to have a family -• Aging and the pursuit of youth -• The effects of societal beauty standards on self-image and behavior -• Worshiping material things as ultimate values in life -• Building lives around superficial or unfulfilling pursuits -• The concept of sustaining life and avoiding destruction -• Misdirected glory and worship leading to default responses -• Destroying or casting away others, versus finding other lesser glories to add to one's practices -• The importance of coming to the light of Jesus and seeing the world as it really is -• The impact of this story making the gospel bigger in our minds and imaginations -• Redemption and restoration of creation by Jesus -• The concept of creation being redeemed by Jesus Christ -• Redemption applying to the entire cosmos, not just individuals -• The coming of Christ ushering in a new world, the kingdom of God -• Creation groaning under the weight of sin, awaiting renewal and redemption -• The scope of redemption extends beyond individual salvation to a renewed world order -• Calling on people to proclaim the name of Jesus -• Inviting children, grandchildren, neighbors, friends, and others to know Jesus as Lord -• Prayer for eyes to be opened to see God more clearly -• Requesting experience and connection with God in the present moment -• Acknowledging God's work in past and current times -• Praying for a deeper understanding of God's kingdom and will -• Declaration of kingdom -• Worship and adoration of God -• Power and authority of God -• Creation's reverence for God -• God seated on his throne -• Adoration and worship of God -• Prayers and hymns to God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit -• The power of prayer and faith -• The sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross -• Eternal life and salvation through God's love -• Protection and guidance from God -• Overcoming fear and living in peace with God -• Heaven as a place of glory, joy, and eternal life -• Song lyrics discussing the theme of hope and redemption -• References to God, heaven, and the city of God -• Repetition of the phrase "because of you" -• Mention of sin, forgiveness, and eternal life -• References to worship and the Holy Spirit \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - January 30, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - January 30, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d3933782304692b2903dd5d3a8ba82b5bcce067d..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - January 30, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3302 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 22.40] To you, Lord, Christ my Lord, I am not my own, but beyond body and soul. -[22.40 --> 37.26] In my life and in death, to you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[37.26 --> 50.26] I am not my own, but beyond body and soul. -[50.26 --> 65.26] In my life and in death, to you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[65.26 --> 95.24] I am not my own, but beyond body and soul. -[95.24 --> 100.70] I raise a hallelujah. -[100.70 --> 107.00] Louder than the unbelief. -[107.00 --> 112.46] I raise a hallelujah. -[112.46 --> 117.92] My weapon is a melody. -[117.92 --> 124.08] I raise a hallelujah. -[124.08 --> 130.54] Heaven comes to fight for me. -[130.54 --> 138.12] I'm gonna sing in the middle of the storm. -[138.12 --> 141.26] Louder and louder. -[141.26 --> 144.72] You're gonna hear my praises roar. -[144.72 --> 149.72] Up from the ashes, hope will arise. -[149.72 --> 153.18] God is defeated. -[153.18 --> 155.18] The king is alive. -[155.18 --> 159.18] I raise a hallelujah. -[159.18 --> 167.64] I raise a hallelujah. -[167.64 --> 170.94] I raise a hallelujah. -[170.94 --> 174.40] With everything inside me. -[174.40 --> 179.70] I raise a hallelujah. -[179.70 --> 185.90] I will watch the darkness flee. -[185.90 --> 191.40] I raise a hallelujah. -[191.40 --> 196.86] In the middle of the mystery. -[196.86 --> 201.16] I raise a hallelujah. -[201.16 --> 203.16] I raise a hallelujah. -[203.16 --> 205.16] I raise a hallelujah. -[205.16 --> 212.16] God is defeated. -[212.16 --> 213.10] I raise a hallelujah. -[213.10 --> 215.62] I raise a hallelujah. -[215.62 --> 217.16] I raise a hallelujah. -[217.16 --> 221.54] I raise a hallelujah. -[221.54 --> 225.38] God is defeated. -[225.38 --> 234.38] He's defeated. -[234.38 --> 236.48] He scores 229 on the bellas gepositions of choice. -[236.48 --> 240.06] In the negligence of spirit. -[240.06 --> 240.60] The Andrew Trump chamber works the highest I got as a hallelujah. -[240.60 --> 242.92] Paul Cushy teaches a hallelujah. -[242.92 --> 245.10] wig forgot to train with God's angel. -[245.10 --> 247.68] His will have to train with God. -[247.68 --> 250.50] She worshiped the hallelujah. -[250.50 --> 252.98] Sing a little louder -[252.98 --> 256.18] My weapon is a melody -[256.18 --> 259.22] Sing a little louder -[259.22 --> 262.18] Heaven comes to fight for me -[262.18 --> 264.74] Sing a little louder -[264.74 --> 268.02] In the presence of my enemies -[268.02 --> 270.82] Sing a little louder -[270.82 --> 273.78] Louder than the unbelief -[273.78 --> 276.42] Sing a little louder -[276.42 --> 279.70] My weapon is a melody -[279.70 --> 282.66] Sing a little louder -[282.66 --> 285.54] Heaven comes to fight for me -[285.54 --> 288.50] Sing a little louder -[288.50 --> 291.14] I'm gonna sing -[291.14 --> 294.42] In the middle of the storm -[294.42 --> 296.82] Louder and louder -[296.82 --> 300.26] You're gonna hear my praises roar -[300.26 --> 303.22] Up from the ashes -[303.22 --> 306.10] Hope will arise -[306.10 --> 308.74] Death is defeated -[308.74 --> 312.66] The King is alive -[312.66 --> 314.58] The King is alive -[314.58 --> 315.70] The King is alive -[315.70 --> 345.68] I love you. -[345.70 --> 375.68] I love you. -[375.70 --> 377.70] I love you. -[377.70 --> 379.70] I love you. -[379.70 --> 381.70] I love you. -[381.70 --> 383.70] I love you. -[383.70 --> 385.70] I love you. -[385.70 --> 387.70] I love you. -[387.70 --> 389.70] I love you. -[389.70 --> 391.70] I love you. -[391.70 --> 393.70] I love you. -[393.70 --> 395.70] I love you. -[395.70 --> 397.70] I love you. -[397.70 --> 399.70] I love you. -[399.70 --> 401.70] I love you. -[401.70 --> 403.70] I love you. -[403.70 --> 407.70] I love you. -[407.70 --> 409.70] I love you. -[409.70 --> 411.70] I love you. -[411.70 --> 415.18] Blessed be your glory, I can name. -[419.08 --> 422.14] Blessed be your name. -[422.46 --> 426.10] When the sun is shining down on me. -[426.58 --> 430.36] When the world's all as it should be. -[430.74 --> 432.30] Blessed be your name. -[435.64 --> 438.70] Blessed be your name. -[438.70 --> 442.44] On the road marked with suffering. -[443.16 --> 446.50] Though there's pain in the offering. -[447.50 --> 448.90] Blessed be your name. -[449.28 --> 450.34] Yes, Lord. -[451.94 --> 456.08] Every blessing you pour out of. -[456.46 --> 458.86] Turn back to praise. -[460.50 --> 464.28] When the darkness closes in more. -[464.28 --> 466.28] Still I will say. -[466.40 --> 470.80] Blessed be the name of the Lord. -[471.04 --> 473.34] Blessed be your name. -[475.00 --> 479.12] Blessed be the name of the Lord. -[479.80 --> 483.04] Blessed be your glorious name. -[483.86 --> 485.60] Blessed be the name. -[486.68 --> 488.62] Blessed be your name. -[488.62 --> 490.24] Blessed be your name. -[490.24 --> 495.64] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[495.64 --> 502.12] Blessed be your glorious name -[502.12 --> 506.22] To give and take away -[506.22 --> 510.36] To give and take away -[510.36 --> 514.56] My heart will choose to say -[514.56 --> 518.84] Blessed be your name -[518.84 --> 522.82] To give and take away -[522.82 --> 526.94] Oh, you give and take away -[526.94 --> 531.04] My heart will choose to say -[531.04 --> 536.84] For blessed be your name -[536.84 --> 541.22] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[541.22 --> 544.34] Blessed be your name -[544.34 --> 549.60] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[549.60 --> 553.54] Blessed be your glorious name -[553.54 --> 557.66] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[557.66 --> 560.32] Blessed be your name -[560.32 --> 562.32] A true... -[562.32 --> 565.38] Good morning! -[565.80 --> 566.56] How are we all doing? -[568.74 --> 570.42] Alright, Haley's doing good. -[570.50 --> 571.62] How about everybody over here? -[573.26 --> 574.96] Oh, Allie's doing okay. -[575.18 --> 576.56] The rest of you aren't yet sure. -[577.34 --> 578.04] Alright, well. -[578.78 --> 580.98] Welcome to worship. -[581.36 --> 584.34] I am so excited that you are here -[584.34 --> 586.40] and for those who are making their way in yet, -[586.70 --> 587.78] welcome to you. -[587.78 --> 588.98] If you're joining us online, -[589.12 --> 591.80] we are glad that you are participating with us -[591.80 --> 593.72] in our worship together this morning. -[593.84 --> 594.46] My name is Chris. -[594.98 --> 596.32] I'm one of the pastors here -[596.32 --> 599.10] and with these other people that you see on stage -[599.10 --> 600.32] and yet a few more, -[600.68 --> 604.74] we will lead you in our shared worship together this morning. -[605.38 --> 606.04] Before we begin, -[606.12 --> 608.04] there's just a couple housekeeping notes -[608.04 --> 609.46] that we want to make you aware of. -[609.46 --> 613.74] the first of which is that next week -[613.74 --> 615.16] in our worship together, -[615.16 --> 618.28] we will be celebrating the Lord's Supper. -[618.94 --> 621.28] And so we want to put that on your hearts -[621.28 --> 622.30] for the week to come -[622.30 --> 624.16] that you can prepare it yourself. -[624.42 --> 625.94] And if you have kids, -[626.00 --> 626.96] you can talk to your kids -[626.96 --> 628.80] about what that experience is like -[628.80 --> 629.56] and what that means -[629.56 --> 631.72] so we can come together to the table. -[632.22 --> 633.76] For those of you who are thinking -[633.76 --> 635.34] and doing the math on that, -[635.40 --> 637.30] it is technically a week early -[637.30 --> 639.82] from our normal practice of things, -[639.82 --> 640.80] but it is correct. -[641.98 --> 643.42] And so next week, Sunday, -[643.42 --> 646.20] we're going to be looking at the Passover event -[646.20 --> 647.68] in our worship together. -[647.78 --> 649.80] And so we wanted to tie those two things together. -[650.22 --> 652.06] And then also in two weeks time, -[652.14 --> 652.88] I am away. -[653.24 --> 654.60] And so this is the easiest way -[654.60 --> 656.58] to facilitate that service together. -[656.58 --> 658.98] So prepare yourselves over this next week. -[660.28 --> 662.26] Additionally, we want to just bring some clarity -[662.26 --> 663.12] to an announcement -[663.12 --> 664.34] that was in the midweek memo. -[664.66 --> 665.94] For those of you who are interested -[665.94 --> 668.42] in our Easter choir, -[669.34 --> 670.88] the practices are beginning for that -[670.88 --> 672.04] on February 9. -[672.68 --> 674.26] And there was a correction, -[674.42 --> 675.26] then another correction, -[675.52 --> 677.86] and now this is finalized, -[678.24 --> 678.88] Lord willing. -[679.32 --> 680.96] February 9 will be the first practice. -[681.08 --> 682.42] If you have any questions about that, -[682.46 --> 684.56] you can talk to Mark DeGeis, -[684.56 --> 686.48] who is here this morning. -[686.58 --> 687.96] Mark, wave nice and big, everyone. -[688.08 --> 688.50] That's Mark. -[688.58 --> 690.56] You can grab him following the service -[690.56 --> 692.92] or check in with us later for more details. -[694.66 --> 696.64] I have a note that Brandon Muller -[696.64 --> 697.74] is going to make an announcement. -[697.90 --> 698.36] Is he here? -[699.70 --> 700.60] There you are. -[701.20 --> 701.60] All right. -[702.18 --> 703.20] Brandon, come on up. -[703.82 --> 704.52] Grab a microphone. -[716.58 --> 721.42] Yeah, just a quick one for Youth Mexico. -[722.12 --> 723.82] We got a meeting after the service today -[723.82 --> 724.50] for five minutes. -[724.54 --> 725.84] Just go over your guys' fundraiser -[725.84 --> 726.76] that you'll be starting. -[727.40 --> 728.80] And then next week, Sunday, -[728.90 --> 730.20] the 6th, I think that is, -[730.74 --> 732.70] we'll be doing a meeting after Youth Coffee. -[732.92 --> 734.28] So it'll be 2 to 4 o'clock -[734.28 --> 734.94] will be our meeting. -[735.06 --> 736.40] Youth Coffee is 12 to 2 or so. -[737.46 --> 738.96] So yeah, that's just the quick ones. -[738.96 --> 740.84] I know we email that out as well, -[740.96 --> 742.38] but just to make sure it's known. -[747.60 --> 748.22] All right. -[748.46 --> 749.52] Thank you, Brandon. -[749.58 --> 751.08] If you have any questions for Brandon, -[751.16 --> 751.88] you can grab him, -[752.38 --> 755.16] and he will address those as well. -[755.66 --> 756.70] And then the last one, -[756.86 --> 757.96] that there is 2020 tonight, -[758.60 --> 760.12] that's a youth program. -[760.20 --> 761.28] If you have any questions about that, -[761.58 --> 762.34] you can ask Pastor Kevin. -[762.58 --> 763.54] He knows those things. -[763.54 --> 765.62] As you're able, -[765.72 --> 766.20] and where you are, -[766.36 --> 767.36] I'm going to invite you to stand. -[767.82 --> 770.22] We are gathered into the presence of God, -[770.32 --> 771.40] and he welcomes us -[771.40 --> 774.70] and greets us with his own words. -[775.22 --> 777.48] Receive the greeting of our God. -[778.64 --> 782.10] Grace, mercy, and peace to you. -[782.38 --> 783.40] From God our Father, -[783.48 --> 784.48] and the Lord Jesus Christ, -[784.56 --> 786.30] his Son, and our Savior, -[786.74 --> 788.22] through the presence and power -[788.22 --> 789.42] of the Holy Spirit. -[790.66 --> 790.94] Amen. -[793.54 --> 813.78] You give light, -[813.88 --> 815.68] you are love, -[815.68 --> 820.12] you bring light to the darkness, -[820.48 --> 822.18] you give hope, -[822.18 --> 829.18] you restore every heart that is broken. -[832.56 --> 836.18] Grace are you, Lord. -[838.08 --> 842.04] It's your breath in our lives, -[842.04 --> 844.98] so we pour out our praise, -[845.32 --> 847.12] you pour out our praise. -[847.18 --> 850.82] It's your breath in our lives, -[850.82 --> 854.04] so we pour out our praise, -[854.16 --> 856.82] you hold me. -[863.94 --> 866.42] You give light, -[866.88 --> 868.62] you are love, -[868.98 --> 873.08] you bring light to the darkness, -[873.08 --> 878.08] you give light, you give light, you restore every heart that is broken. -[878.08 --> 880.08] Every heart that is broken. -[880.08 --> 882.08] Every heart that is broken. -[882.08 --> 883.08] Every heart that is broken. -[883.08 --> 885.08] Every heart that is broken. -[885.08 --> 886.08] Every heart that is broken. -[886.08 --> 887.08] Great are you, Lord. -[887.08 --> 891.08] It's your breath in our lives, -[891.08 --> 894.08] your breath in our lives, -[894.08 --> 897.68] so we pour out our grace, -[898.08 --> 899.76] you pour out our praise. -[899.76 --> 903.60] It's your breath in our lives, -[903.60 --> 906.66] so we pour out our grace, -[906.86 --> 908.60] you're holy. -[908.60 --> 922.24] And all the earth will shout your praise -[922.24 --> 926.78] Our hearts will cry, these hosts will sing -[926.78 --> 934.72] May I be all you are -[934.72 --> 939.74] And all the earth will shout your praise -[939.74 --> 944.12] Our hearts will cry, these hosts will sing -[944.12 --> 950.86] Great are you Lord -[950.86 --> 956.90] And all the earth will shout your praise -[956.90 --> 961.28] Our hearts will cry, these hosts will sing -[961.28 --> 968.08] Great are you Lord -[968.08 --> 973.32] It's your breath in our lungs -[973.32 --> 978.30] So we pour out our praise, pour out our praise -[978.30 --> 981.88] It's your breath in our lungs -[981.88 --> 986.10] So we pour out our praise to you only -[986.10 --> 990.52] It's your breath in our lungs -[990.52 --> 995.62] So we pour out our praise, pour out our praise -[995.62 --> 999.20] It's your breath in our lungs -[999.20 --> 1004.26] So we pour out our praise to you only -[1004.26 --> 1019.86] Revelation 15, 3-4 is our call to worship -[1019.86 --> 1023.06] Great and amazing are your deeds -[1023.06 --> 1025.06] O Lord God the Almighty -[1025.06 --> 1027.70] Just and true are your ways -[1027.70 --> 1029.46] O King of the nations -[1029.46 --> 1032.06] Who will not fear, O Lord -[1032.06 --> 1033.66] And glorify your name -[1033.66 --> 1036.06] For you alone are holy -[1036.06 --> 1039.28] All nations will come and worship you -[1039.28 --> 1042.44] For your righteous acts have been revealed -[1042.44 --> 1072.42] I love you -[1072.42 --> 1075.02] For your mercy never fails me -[1075.02 --> 1079.02] For your mercy never fails me -[1079.02 --> 1086.42] All my days I've been held in your hands -[1086.42 --> 1089.72] From the moment that I wake up -[1089.72 --> 1093.36] Until I lay my head -[1093.36 --> 1095.96] I will sing -[1095.96 --> 1098.96] I will sing -[1098.96 --> 1099.96] I will sing -[1099.96 --> 1106.46] All my life you have been faithful -[1106.46 --> 1113.46] All my life you have been so, so good -[1113.46 --> 1127.60] Oh God, with every breath that I am able, I will sing upon the goodness of God. -[1127.60 --> 1139.04] My heart, your voice, you have led me through the fire, in darkest night. -[1139.04 --> 1150.40] You are close like no other, I've known you as a father, I've known you as a friend. -[1150.40 --> 1157.18] I have lived in the goodness of God. -[1157.18 --> 1164.14] All my life you have been faithful. -[1166.54 --> 1173.32] All my life you have been so, so good. -[1173.32 --> 1185.68] With every breath that I am able, I will sing upon the goodness of God. -[1187.68 --> 1193.32] Your goodness is running after, it's running after me. -[1193.32 --> 1200.32] Your goodness is running after, it's running after me. -[1201.04 --> 1204.60] With my heart laid down, I surrender now. -[1204.88 --> 1206.96] I give you everything. -[1209.06 --> 1214.30] Your goodness is running after, it's running after me. -[1214.30 --> 1228.30] Your goodness is running after, it's running after me. -[1228.30 --> 1232.12] With my life laid down, I surrender now. -[1232.30 --> 1234.38] I give you everything. -[1236.16 --> 1241.76] Your goodness is running after, it's running after me. -[1241.76 --> 1271.74] Your goodness is running after, it's running after, it's running after, it's running after. -[1271.74 --> 1277.74] I will sing of the goodness of God. -[1280.18 --> 1282.58] We invite you to be seated for this next song. -[1282.58 --> 1291.02] Thank you. -[1291.02 --> 1316.58] I have a maker. -[1316.58 --> 1321.58] kind of a maker. -[1321.58 --> 1329.80] Before even time began -[1329.80 --> 1335.20] My life was in His hand -[1335.20 --> 1341.32] He knows my name -[1341.32 --> 1349.04] He knows my every God -[1349.04 --> 1354.60] He leaves each year that falls -[1354.60 --> 1359.84] And hears me when I call -[1359.84 --> 1365.80] Oh, my Father -[1365.80 --> 1372.96] He calls me His own -[1372.96 --> 1378.76] He'll never leave me -[1378.76 --> 1384.32] No matter where I go -[1384.32 --> 1390.76] He knows my name -[1390.76 --> 1397.76] He knows my every God -[1397.76 --> 1403.32] He sees each year that falls -[1403.32 --> 1408.88] And hears me when I call -[1408.88 --> 1410.88] He hears me when I call -[1410.88 --> 1415.32] He knows my name -[1415.32 --> 1420.88] He knows my every God -[1420.88 --> 1426.44] He sees each year that falls -[1426.44 --> 1430.44] He hears me when I call -[1430.44 --> 1433.44] He hears me when I call -[1433.44 --> 1439.00] He hears me when I call -[1439.00 --> 1444.56] Let's pray -[1444.56 --> 1446.12] Our Heavenly Father -[1446.12 --> 1446.44] Our Heavenly Father -[1446.44 --> 1449.06] We often fail to recognize -[1449.06 --> 1450.12] Your love for us -[1450.12 --> 1452.68] As we go about our busy daily lives -[1452.68 --> 1453.68] Please forgive us -[1453.68 --> 1454.68] Please forgive us -[1454.68 --> 1457.24] When we have failed to recognize -[1457.24 --> 1458.24] Your presence -[1458.24 --> 1460.24] Which is always with us in this world -[1460.24 --> 1462.24] Please forgive us -[1462.24 --> 1465.46] When we have failed to remember -[1465.46 --> 1466.94] Your teachings and our actions -[1466.94 --> 1468.86] Thoughts and words to others -[1468.86 --> 1471.24] Please forgive us, we pray -[1471.24 --> 1474.46] Lord, please renew our hearts -[1474.46 --> 1475.06] And worship -[1475.06 --> 1476.86] And our minds and our hands -[1476.86 --> 1477.98] In service to You -[1477.98 --> 1480.10] Take our lives -[1480.10 --> 1481.12] And use them -[1481.12 --> 1483.14] As a sacrifice of love -[1483.14 --> 1485.54] We thank You for Your mercy, O God -[1485.54 --> 1487.30] Through Jesus Christ, our Savior -[1487.30 --> 1488.20] Amen -[1488.20 --> 1490.10] Please rise -[1490.10 --> 1491.16] When we sing this next song -[1491.16 --> 1491.74] Amen -[1491.74 --> 1502.22] All to remember -[1502.22 --> 1505.00] No wrongs we have done -[1505.00 --> 1507.90] On this and all knowing -[1507.90 --> 1510.14] He counts not their style -[1510.14 --> 1512.66] Brought into our seed -[1512.66 --> 1515.66] With the bottom or shelf -[1515.66 --> 1522.62] Our sins, they are many, His mercy is low -[1522.62 --> 1530.36] What patience, Lord, wait us, weak, lost, and evil -[1530.36 --> 1535.84] What Father so tender is calling us low -[1535.84 --> 1541.78] He welcomes the weakest, the finest, the poor -[1541.78 --> 1547.78] Our sins, they are many, His mercy is low -[1547.78 --> 1559.38] Praise the Lord, His mercy is low -[1559.38 --> 1565.78] Stronger than darkness, new and reward -[1565.78 --> 1571.78] Our sins, they are many, His mercy is low -[1571.78 --> 1580.08] What riches of kindness He lavished on us -[1580.08 --> 1585.20] His blood was the payment, His life was the cost -[1585.20 --> 1590.78] We stood, we thought, we could never afford -[1590.78 --> 1596.78] Our sins, they are many, His mercy is low -[1596.78 --> 1606.78] Praise the Lord, His mercy is low -[1606.78 --> 1614.78] Stronger than darkness, new and reward -[1614.78 --> 1620.78] Our sins, they are many, His mercy is low -[1620.78 --> 1626.78] Praise the Lord, His mercy is low -[1626.78 --> 1632.78] Stronger than darkness, new and reward -[1632.78 --> 1638.78] Our sins, they are many, His mercy is low -[1638.78 --> 1644.78] Our sins, they are many, His mercy is low -[1644.78 --> 1648.78] Please be seated -[1648.78 --> 1650.78] Please be seated -[1650.78 --> 1654.78] Thank you -[1654.78 --> 1682.78] Thank you -[1682.78 --> 1687.78] Helping boys grow more Christ-like in all areas of life -[1687.78 --> 1690.78] That's the goal of the Calvinist Cadet Corps -[1690.78 --> 1693.78] Which is what today's special offering is for -[1693.78 --> 1697.78] Cadet ministry is based on landmarks that guide all cadets -[1697.78 --> 1701.78] Programs designed to meet boys where they are in life -[1701.78 --> 1704.78] And publications that entertain and educate -[1704.78 --> 1718.78] While the Minh18ri span ohest impression -[1718.78 --> 1719.78] Officials of his greenidée -[1719.78 --> 1720.78] As the middle 저도 contemporalen -[1720.78 --> 1723.78] To right of your natural identity -[1723.78 --> 1726.06] To what theos Africaut Black -[1726.06 --> 1740.64] What a friend we have in Jesus -[1740.64 --> 1745.28] All our sins and grace to bear -[1745.28 --> 1751.32] What a privilege to bear me -[1751.32 --> 1756.16] Everything to God in prayer -[1756.16 --> 1761.82] Oh, what peace we often forfeit -[1761.82 --> 1766.68] Oh, what needless pain we bear -[1766.68 --> 1771.52] Oh, because we do not carry -[1771.52 --> 1777.06] Everything to God in prayer -[1777.06 --> 1784.80] Have we trials and temptations? -[1785.42 --> 1788.16] Is there trouble anywhere? -[1790.50 --> 1794.54] We should never be discouraged -[1794.54 --> 1799.90] Take it to the Lord in prayer -[1799.90 --> 1804.86] God, we find a friend so faithful -[1804.86 --> 1809.64] Oh, and all our sorrows share -[1809.64 --> 1815.06] Jesus knows our every weakness -[1815.06 --> 1820.64] Take it to the Lord in prayer -[1820.64 --> 1828.50] Are we weak and heavy laden -[1828.50 --> 1833.60] Cumbered with a load of care -[1833.60 --> 1838.38] Precious Savior, still our refuge -[1838.38 --> 1843.18] Take it to the Lord in prayer -[1843.18 --> 1848.42] Do thy friends despise forsaken -[1848.42 --> 1853.92] Take it to the Lord in prayer -[1853.92 --> 1859.38] In his heart still take and shield you -[1859.38 --> 1863.52] Now you'll find us all as glad -[1863.52 --> 1880.04] Turn it for Kids Corner -[1880.04 --> 1882.16] Everyone else want to come on up front? -[1882.16 --> 1892.16] I was looking around the church -[1892.16 --> 1893.58] I didn't think there were that many kids here -[1893.58 --> 1894.56] Then all of a sudden they just start -[1894.56 --> 1895.78] Coming out of the woodwork here -[1895.78 --> 1896.50] That's pretty good -[1896.50 --> 1903.08] Today? -[1908.60 --> 1910.06] Okay, that sounds like fun -[1910.06 --> 1911.82] How's everyone else doing today? -[1912.16 --> 1912.84] Good? -[1914.18 --> 1916.58] Okay, last week we were here -[1916.58 --> 1921.30] And Mrs. Lovert did a really cool example of something -[1921.30 --> 1923.96] Does anybody remember what happened last week? -[1924.52 --> 1925.46] When we were sitting here? -[1926.96 --> 1928.70] Ruby, do you remember what happened? -[1929.02 --> 1929.82] Do you remember what happened? -[1931.00 --> 1932.04] We were talking about faith -[1932.04 --> 1934.60] And what was the example they used -[1934.60 --> 1936.42] Or Mrs. Lovert used? -[1936.50 --> 1936.78] Yes -[1936.78 --> 1936.84] Yes -[1936.84 --> 1937.70] Yes -[1937.70 --> 1943.02] Do you guys all remember that? -[1943.18 --> 1944.54] Ruby was standing down here -[1944.54 --> 1946.58] And Mrs. Lovert was standing up on the stage -[1946.58 --> 1948.94] And we were wondering if Ruby was going to be able to catch her -[1948.94 --> 1949.36] What do you think? -[1949.40 --> 1950.14] Was that going to happen? -[1950.14 --> 1952.74] But then we reversed the roles -[1952.74 --> 1953.88] Was that better? -[1954.64 --> 1955.92] And we could trust that -[1955.92 --> 1959.18] Mrs. Lovert was going to be able to catch Ruby, right? -[1963.94 --> 1965.26] Okay, sounds good -[1965.26 --> 1967.76] Today we are going to -[1967.76 --> 1970.42] We're going to talk about a story about prayer -[1970.42 --> 1973.40] And I was going to ask you guys a couple questions about prayer -[1973.40 --> 1977.40] What are some things that we often pray for? -[1977.46 --> 1978.68] Does anybody got any ideas? -[1979.40 --> 1981.66] Our mom and dad and kittens -[1981.66 --> 1983.80] The mom and dad and kittens -[1983.80 --> 1984.66] That sounds good -[1984.66 --> 1985.06] What else? -[1985.10 --> 1985.70] Anybody else? -[1985.78 --> 1987.10] What are some things you pray about -[1987.10 --> 1988.74] At home or at school? -[1992.16 --> 1992.56] Yeah -[1992.56 --> 1995.36] To have a good day -[1995.36 --> 1996.14] That's good -[1996.14 --> 1996.88] Anything else? -[1997.10 --> 1997.86] Anybody else got any? -[1997.86 --> 2007.42] Thank you that the Lord died on the cross -[2007.42 --> 2008.66] Very good, very good -[2008.66 --> 2010.02] And how many people -[2010.02 --> 2010.62] Let me think -[2010.62 --> 2012.54] There's different places we often pray -[2012.54 --> 2013.82] Does anybody got any ideas? -[2013.94 --> 2015.08] Where do you pray? -[2015.20 --> 2015.82] At church? -[2015.92 --> 2016.30] We pray? -[2016.42 --> 2016.82] Where else? -[2016.94 --> 2017.56] Where do you pray? -[2023.36 --> 2024.80] At school, at home, and church -[2024.80 --> 2025.38] How about you? -[2027.86 --> 2028.66] He prays everywhere -[2028.66 --> 2029.46] Well, that's good -[2029.46 --> 2030.08] That's great -[2030.08 --> 2031.32] We should be praying everywhere -[2031.32 --> 2031.52] I wonder -[2031.52 --> 2036.96] You sing to God? -[2037.04 --> 2038.30] Well, he's going to be loving that -[2038.30 --> 2039.74] He's loving that we're praying all the time -[2039.74 --> 2040.96] And that we're singing to him often -[2040.96 --> 2041.68] That's really good -[2041.68 --> 2043.90] So today we're going to talk about prayer in the back -[2043.90 --> 2044.96] And there's a really -[2044.96 --> 2048.04] A prayer that's been very -[2048.04 --> 2050.28] That's been used very often in the New Testament -[2050.28 --> 2052.82] Has anybody ever heard of the Lord's Prayer? -[2053.72 --> 2054.06] Yeah? -[2054.76 --> 2056.80] So we're going to talk a bit about that -[2056.80 --> 2058.18] In children's worship time -[2058.18 --> 2058.92] In the back -[2058.92 --> 2060.92] Can I pray with you guys right now? -[2062.08 --> 2062.86] Let's do that -[2062.86 --> 2065.52] You can show me in the -[2065.52 --> 2067.00] In children's worship time -[2067.00 --> 2067.50] How about that? -[2068.28 --> 2068.74] Sound good? -[2069.54 --> 2070.50] Okay, if everyone can -[2070.50 --> 2071.86] Fold your hands and close your eyes -[2071.86 --> 2072.66] We're going to pray together -[2072.66 --> 2073.72] Heavenly Father -[2073.72 --> 2074.98] Thank you so much for this day -[2074.98 --> 2076.58] Thank you that we be here together -[2076.58 --> 2077.86] And see the excitement -[2077.86 --> 2078.82] And the exuberance -[2078.82 --> 2079.58] In these young kids -[2079.58 --> 2081.60] Thank you for them all -[2081.60 --> 2084.32] And I ask that you bless the leaders -[2084.32 --> 2086.62] This morning -[2086.62 --> 2088.54] As they share your word -[2088.54 --> 2089.94] With all these wonderful children -[2089.94 --> 2091.06] For Jesus' sake -[2091.06 --> 2091.26] Amen -[2091.26 --> 2093.60] Okay, next we're going to do the blessing -[2093.60 --> 2095.00] So if everyone can stand up -[2095.00 --> 2097.06] And face the adults -[2097.06 --> 2101.34] Alright -[2101.34 --> 2102.28] Ready -[2102.28 --> 2103.40] The -[2103.40 --> 2107.72] All these works -[2107.72 --> 2107.80] All these works -[2107.80 --> 2108.16] All these works -[2108.16 --> 2109.82] All these bodies -[2109.82 --> 2110.66] felons -[2110.66 --> 2117.42] We're going to do theорот -[2117.42 --> 2118.40] Of those fat -[2118.40 --> 2119.58] Of those fat -[2119.58 --> 2120.60] Slity -[2120.60 --> 2121.06] referred to -[2121.06 --> 2121.76] Back -[2121.76 --> 2122.80] All these -[2122.80 --> 2123.08] Of those -[2123.08 --> 2123.70] All these -[2123.70 --> 2125.48] We're going to do -[2125.48 --> 2127.24] All these -[2127.24 --> 2128.28] And -[2128.28 --> 2128.74] We're Shit -[2128.74 --> 2129.16] There -[2129.16 --> 2143.64] Good morning. -[2145.26 --> 2146.28] My name is Dave. -[2146.40 --> 2147.86] I am one of the elders on council, -[2148.14 --> 2151.40] and it is my privilege to be able to lead us in our church family prayer. -[2152.12 --> 2152.84] Let us pray. -[2155.58 --> 2157.86] Father, this is the day that you have made. -[2157.86 --> 2160.34] We rejoice, and we are glad in it. -[2160.96 --> 2164.42] Father, we praise you because of your love and your providence that you have showed us, -[2164.78 --> 2169.02] the love and the guidance you have given us throughout this week and throughout our lives. -[2170.08 --> 2176.06] Father, it is important that we confess all of our sins and our shortcomings. -[2177.14 --> 2181.58] We confess that there are deeds that we have done or deeds that we should have done. -[2181.94 --> 2185.76] We pray that there have been words that we have said or words that we should have said. -[2185.76 --> 2190.16] And quite often, we act out of selfishness or anger. -[2190.84 --> 2195.00] Father, we thank you that we do not have to bear all those sins, -[2195.42 --> 2198.08] that we do not have to carry that burden through our lives, -[2198.26 --> 2202.54] but that Jesus willingly took that burden on himself and took them on the cross, -[2202.68 --> 2204.56] and we don't have to bear them anymore. -[2204.82 --> 2206.88] We thank you for that unspeakable gift. -[2206.88 --> 2214.44] And in reply and in joy and in gratitude, we take seriously our command, -[2215.06 --> 2220.24] your command, for us to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with our God. -[2221.24 --> 2223.72] Father, we thank you for your church. -[2224.00 --> 2227.26] We thank you for this church congregation and the ministries that we have. -[2227.82 --> 2230.76] We think about Children's Worship Time, where we're meeting right now. -[2231.02 --> 2232.80] We think about the Gems and the Cadets. -[2232.80 --> 2234.86] We think about youth in 2020. -[2235.36 --> 2238.38] We think about our young adults, nursery, coffee break. -[2238.76 --> 2242.18] We pray for those who are preparing for a Mexico missions trip. -[2242.62 --> 2245.08] We thank you for all those missions and all of our others, -[2245.80 --> 2251.18] ways to bring our congregation closer to you and to serve those in our community. -[2252.20 --> 2256.74] Father, we think about our offering today for the Calvitas Connect Corps -[2256.74 --> 2260.46] and how many churches are celebrating Cadet Sunday. -[2260.46 --> 2266.74] We thank you for that ministry, and we take seriously their motto, -[2267.30 --> 2272.26] that men can help boys to become more Christ-like in all areas of life. -[2273.18 --> 2277.86] Father, we think about our church that will be celebrating the Lord's Supper next week. -[2278.02 --> 2280.82] It is an important visible sign for all of us. -[2281.36 --> 2284.40] We thank you that when we look at the bread and the cup, -[2284.72 --> 2286.44] we can think about the body and the Lord, -[2286.44 --> 2288.36] the body and blood of the Lord, -[2288.82 --> 2292.84] and how they've been broken and how his blood has been shed for all of our sins. -[2294.24 --> 2298.50] Father, we think about our congregation and the world around us, -[2298.54 --> 2300.08] and we think of many things to pray for. -[2300.62 --> 2305.26] We think about the fear and the unrest in the Ukraine and with nearby Russia. -[2305.26 --> 2312.76] We think about everyone who's experiencing fear because of this potential conflict and open hostility. -[2313.26 --> 2317.06] We pray for leaders and diplomats who are trying to find a peaceful way around this. -[2317.56 --> 2322.68] We do pray that there will be a way for us to avoid conflict but still stand up for justice. -[2323.48 --> 2325.54] Father, we think about needs in our own congregation. -[2325.54 --> 2330.38] We think about Miriam Visser, who has had some seizure-like symptoms. -[2330.86 --> 2335.40] We pray for her medical help, that they'll be able to figure out what it is, what is wrong, -[2335.64 --> 2338.24] and what is the best way to take care of her. -[2339.10 --> 2344.44] Father, we pray for all of those in our congregation who have lost loved ones recently. -[2345.12 --> 2351.48] It is something that is painful and difficult, and it affects the way we live our lives. -[2351.48 --> 2355.56] We pray that you will provide them your love and your strength, -[2356.10 --> 2361.62] that they will feel the love and encouragement from members of this congregation too. -[2362.44 --> 2364.62] Father, we pray for those who are involved in ministry. -[2364.88 --> 2368.04] We think about Jared Alkema, who is in Costa Rica with Cape and Ray, -[2368.68 --> 2370.60] part of a leadership development program. -[2370.86 --> 2374.56] We pray that these four months will be a very good time for him, -[2375.06 --> 2378.88] for the people he works with, and the ministry that he takes part in. -[2378.88 --> 2383.70] We think about Marilyn Heinen's nephew, Kevin, and wife, Colleen, -[2384.24 --> 2386.96] with a serious car accident that they have been in. -[2387.26 --> 2390.18] We thank you for the recovery that they have been experiencing, -[2390.52 --> 2392.54] the miraculous recovery that they have. -[2392.88 --> 2396.00] We pray for continued healing and that they'll be able to be restored -[2396.00 --> 2399.24] to their full health and full mobility before too long. -[2400.08 --> 2403.60] We think about the Canadian branch of the Christian Reformed Church, -[2404.02 --> 2407.20] of your church, because they're looking for a new executive director. -[2407.20 --> 2410.64] We pray for Pastor Chris, who is chairing the search committee for that, -[2411.10 --> 2415.90] and that as they make decisions about what the future of our church will be like, -[2416.24 --> 2418.32] that they will feel your wisdom and your clarity. -[2419.36 --> 2425.78] Father, we think about provincial and federal leaders who are involved in responding to COVID -[2425.78 --> 2427.32] in the best way that they know how. -[2427.68 --> 2429.60] We pray that you give them wisdom and clarity, -[2429.60 --> 2435.36] so that they will be able to make decisions that are good for all. -[2435.36 --> 2439.40] We know there is a difficult balance of keeping people safe -[2439.40 --> 2443.22] and trying to live our lives as freely as we can. -[2443.72 --> 2446.02] We know that there are different reactions to the pandemic. -[2447.12 --> 2455.72] We pray that even though this pandemic can show how divided people can be, -[2456.12 --> 2461.40] we pray that everyone will continue this conversation with civility and respect. -[2461.40 --> 2466.84] We think about our council as we make decisions about how COVID impacts our ministries -[2466.84 --> 2468.40] and how we can best serve your people. -[2468.82 --> 2472.50] We pray for wisdom and insight for that group as they meet this week. -[2473.26 --> 2477.64] Father, we pray for Pastor Chris, who is leading us in our message today. -[2478.16 --> 2480.12] We continue our study about the Exodus. -[2480.78 --> 2484.08] And in that story, we see your love and your care for your people, Israel. -[2484.08 --> 2489.64] And in that example before us, that we could also see your love and care for your church, -[2490.06 --> 2493.02] for your worldwide church, and for this church, Emmanuel. -[2493.72 --> 2498.52] We thank you for that name, Emmanuel, and the reminder that God is with us. -[2499.10 --> 2503.40] Father, we pray these things, not because we deserve it, but we ask it in Jesus' name. -[2504.26 --> 2504.50] Amen. -[2504.50 --> 2504.60] Amen. -[2514.08 --> 2515.08] Amen. -[2529.72 --> 2537.90] So, as Dave prayed, as you see on the screen, we are indeed continuing looking at Exodus. -[2538.02 --> 2540.36] In just a moment, I'm going to read from Exodus 7. -[2540.36 --> 2544.06] We're going to look at the story of the Ten Plagues. -[2544.12 --> 2548.92] But before we get into that, I want to just start with a controversy right away. -[2550.60 --> 2555.26] And that controversy may divide along age lines. -[2556.26 --> 2561.88] And so, while that is a consequence, it's not particularly my intent. -[2562.88 --> 2563.82] But here it is. -[2563.82 --> 2576.02] The movie, The Prince of Egypt, voiced by Val Kilmer in 1998, is better than the movie, The Ten Commandments, with Charlton Heston. -[2577.20 --> 2578.48] Which was from 1954. -[2578.76 --> 2579.12] Yes. -[2579.78 --> 2584.58] I'm glad you said yes and not amen, because if that was the first loud amen that I've gotten in a year preaching here, -[2584.64 --> 2586.74] that would be a really bad sign. -[2586.74 --> 2591.70] Let me take that controversy one step further. -[2593.52 --> 2607.16] The movie from 2014 with Christian Bale, Exodus, Gods and Kings, is better than Moe and the Big Exit, the VeggieTale movie from 2007. -[2609.34 --> 2610.52] No, okay. -[2611.12 --> 2613.56] I was expecting a boo, actually, so that's good. -[2613.56 --> 2618.48] Here's my point in raising this thing. -[2618.60 --> 2629.44] Most of us are at least minimally familiar with the story of Exodus, with in particular the Ten Commandments, or the Ten Plagues, and the Exodus, and the Ten Commandments. -[2629.72 --> 2630.90] That little snapshot. -[2631.68 --> 2635.08] And that's what we are getting into here this morning. -[2635.08 --> 2647.16] And so because we are minimally familiar, because culture and pop culture has influenced some of our experience around those things, -[2647.22 --> 2653.00] it can be hard to weed through all of that, or wade through all of that, -[2653.30 --> 2660.86] and see what is actually in the text, and in the story, and the purpose thereof. -[2660.86 --> 2667.38] And so I want to name that at the beginning, and then challenge you, with the best of your ability, -[2667.84 --> 2675.74] to dig through that, and come into this story looking for something new. -[2677.06 --> 2678.76] And so with that in mind, I'm going to read. -[2679.88 --> 2683.48] I'm going to start in chapter 7 at verse 8. -[2684.40 --> 2687.02] I think it's going to be on the screen behind me there, too. -[2687.02 --> 2693.36] And now while we're going to talk about the first nine plagues today, -[2693.38 --> 2696.68] we're not going to read all nine plagues together. -[2696.94 --> 2698.06] But we will read the first one. -[2699.54 --> 2702.02] The Lord said to Moses and Aaron, -[2702.92 --> 2705.12] When Pharaoh says to you, perform a miracle, -[2705.70 --> 2706.96] then say to Aaron, -[2707.40 --> 2710.36] Take your staff and throw it down before Pharaoh, -[2710.64 --> 2711.92] and it will become a snake. -[2711.92 --> 2717.72] So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and did just as the Lord had commanded. -[2719.06 --> 2722.64] Aaron threw his staff down in front of Pharaoh and his officials, -[2722.84 --> 2724.58] and it became a snake. -[2725.70 --> 2728.70] Pharaoh then summoned wise men and sorcerers, -[2728.84 --> 2733.58] and the Egyptian magicians also did the same things by their secret arts. -[2734.20 --> 2737.72] Each one threw down his staff, and it became a snake. -[2737.72 --> 2742.72] But Aaron's staff swallowed up their staffs. -[2743.94 --> 2745.98] Yet Pharaoh's heart became hard, -[2746.10 --> 2749.00] and he would not listen to them, just as the Lord had said. -[2750.60 --> 2752.38] Then the Lord said to Moses, -[2752.98 --> 2755.02] Pharaoh's heart is unyielding. -[2755.44 --> 2757.28] He refuses to let the people go. -[2758.36 --> 2762.04] Go to Pharaoh in the morning as he goes out to the river. -[2762.04 --> 2765.40] Confront him on the bank of the Nile, -[2765.84 --> 2770.66] and take in your hand the staff that was changed into a snake. -[2771.68 --> 2772.68] Then say to him, -[2773.40 --> 2776.88] The Lord, the God of the Hebrews, has sent me to you to say, -[2777.36 --> 2781.24] Let my people go, so that they may worship me in the wilderness. -[2782.74 --> 2784.68] But until now you have not listened. -[2785.60 --> 2787.16] This is what the Lord says, -[2787.16 --> 2791.32] By this you will know that I am the Lord. -[2792.28 --> 2794.62] And with the staff that is in my hand, -[2794.70 --> 2796.60] I will strike the water of the Nile, -[2796.70 --> 2798.68] and it will be changed into blood. -[2799.66 --> 2801.54] The fish of the Nile will die, -[2801.64 --> 2802.54] the river will sink, -[2802.64 --> 2805.10] the Egyptians will not be able to drink its water. -[2806.76 --> 2808.16] The Lord said to Moses, -[2809.00 --> 2809.52] Tell Aaron, -[2809.78 --> 2812.98] Take your staff and stretch out your hand over the waters of Egypt, -[2813.32 --> 2814.78] over the streams and canals, -[2814.78 --> 2817.04] over the ponds and over all the reservoirs, -[2817.16 --> 2818.80] and they will turn to blood. -[2819.72 --> 2822.16] Blood will be everywhere in Egypt, -[2822.54 --> 2825.08] even in vessels of wood and stone. -[2826.62 --> 2828.10] Moses and Aaron did, -[2828.24 --> 2829.66] just as the Lord had commanded. -[2829.80 --> 2832.68] He raised his staff in the presence of Pharaoh and his officials, -[2832.96 --> 2834.94] and struck the water of the Nile, -[2835.12 --> 2837.64] and all the water was changed into blood. -[2838.32 --> 2840.10] The fish in the Nile died, -[2840.16 --> 2841.58] and the river smelled so bad -[2841.58 --> 2843.58] that the Egyptians could not drink its water. -[2843.58 --> 2846.64] Blood was everywhere in Egypt. -[2847.16 --> 2852.14] But the Egyptian magicians did the same things, -[2852.14 --> 2853.44] by their secret arts, -[2853.68 --> 2855.52] and Pharaoh's heart became hard. -[2856.30 --> 2858.20] He would not listen to Moses and Aaron, -[2858.32 --> 2859.64] just as the Lord had said. -[2860.02 --> 2862.72] Instead, he turned and went into his palace, -[2862.72 --> 2865.20] and did not even take this to heart. -[2865.86 --> 2868.94] And all the Egyptians dug along the Nile -[2868.94 --> 2869.96] to get drinking water, -[2870.12 --> 2873.92] because they could not drink the water of the river. -[2873.92 --> 2875.98] This is the word of the Lord. -[2879.70 --> 2882.54] Now, the story of the ten plagues, -[2882.66 --> 2885.32] familiar that it may be to us all, -[2885.64 --> 2887.70] starts, as we read, -[2887.92 --> 2890.06] with the story about the staff -[2890.06 --> 2891.66] being turned into a snake. -[2892.80 --> 2894.40] And this is a sort of introduction -[2894.40 --> 2896.46] to the bigger unit -[2896.46 --> 2898.70] that makes up the ten plagues. -[2898.70 --> 2901.02] This morning, like I said, -[2901.08 --> 2903.66] we're going to look at that bigger unit together. -[2905.28 --> 2906.58] Next week, though, -[2906.68 --> 2910.14] we will focus in particular on the last plague, -[2910.40 --> 2911.72] the death of the firstborn, -[2911.82 --> 2912.74] and then the Passover -[2912.74 --> 2914.20] that comes with that. -[2915.38 --> 2916.50] Now, I want to be clear -[2916.50 --> 2919.16] that this isn't an arbitrary division -[2919.16 --> 2921.78] that just works in our preaching schedule, right? -[2921.78 --> 2923.50] The actual narrative structure -[2923.50 --> 2925.34] of this whole section -[2925.34 --> 2927.42] breaks the plagues down -[2927.42 --> 2929.80] into three groups of three plagues, -[2929.88 --> 2930.94] with the tenth plague -[2930.94 --> 2932.68] coming at the end as the climax. -[2934.04 --> 2935.68] There are phrases throughout, -[2935.76 --> 2937.20] and you can look into this later, -[2937.32 --> 2938.86] that indicate a time of day, -[2938.94 --> 2940.48] or when Moses is called -[2940.48 --> 2942.16] to go to Pharaoh and show, -[2942.52 --> 2944.16] that reveals that this breakdown -[2944.16 --> 2946.70] of three times three plus one -[2946.70 --> 2948.50] is an intentional structure, -[2948.50 --> 2950.66] and that the author is using it -[2950.66 --> 2952.44] to make a particular point -[2952.44 --> 2954.06] about the tenth plague -[2954.06 --> 2955.00] and the Passover. -[2955.66 --> 2956.78] We're just sort of using -[2956.78 --> 2957.88] that same structure here. -[2959.04 --> 2960.78] And to set the stage for that, -[2961.66 --> 2963.82] really, from the get-go, -[2964.42 --> 2965.32] right, to help us see -[2965.32 --> 2966.30] what's going on here, -[2967.00 --> 2968.34] we start with that story -[2968.34 --> 2970.44] of a staff being turned into a snake, -[2971.00 --> 2973.32] even though the Egyptian sorcerers -[2973.32 --> 2974.62] can do the same thing. -[2974.62 --> 2976.90] And then, amazingly, -[2977.58 --> 2979.48] Aaron's staff, that snake, -[2979.96 --> 2981.04] eats theirs. -[2982.28 --> 2983.80] I want to dig into this a little -[2983.80 --> 2986.18] and say that there are two levels -[2986.18 --> 2988.82] to the symbolism that's happening here -[2988.82 --> 2990.66] that sort of pervades -[2990.66 --> 2992.12] the rest of the story. -[2993.44 --> 2994.02] And so first, -[2994.88 --> 2997.20] in Egyptian iconography, -[2997.84 --> 2999.70] in Egyptian religious symbols, -[3000.00 --> 3001.76] the snake is associated -[3001.76 --> 3003.12] with the pharaoh. -[3003.12 --> 3005.08] And you can see that -[3005.08 --> 3008.12] in commonly depicted headdresses. -[3008.66 --> 3010.00] I think we have an image there. -[3011.54 --> 3013.16] And this is a burial mask -[3013.16 --> 3015.28] that was found in the grave -[3015.28 --> 3017.52] of Pharaoh Tutankhamen. -[3018.46 --> 3020.70] This particular one is really famous. -[3021.64 --> 3024.26] He reigned in the 14th century BC. -[3025.20 --> 3027.14] I saw this mask actually on exhibit -[3027.14 --> 3029.78] in the Cairo Museum in Egypt. -[3029.78 --> 3031.28] But notice, -[3031.56 --> 3032.92] in the center of the head, -[3033.02 --> 3035.98] there is a bird of prey coming out. -[3036.06 --> 3037.56] That's for the god Ra. -[3037.66 --> 3038.36] We'll come back to him. -[3038.44 --> 3039.50] And there is a snake -[3039.50 --> 3042.38] emerging from the center of the head, -[3042.46 --> 3042.90] a cobra. -[3043.90 --> 3044.70] In Egypt, -[3045.58 --> 3047.46] the pharaohs are also believed -[3047.46 --> 3048.54] to be divine, -[3048.66 --> 3051.24] or to become divine after death. -[3051.82 --> 3052.40] And so, -[3052.54 --> 3053.30] on one level, -[3053.40 --> 3054.26] right at the beginning, -[3054.56 --> 3054.76] right, -[3054.76 --> 3055.86] the plague story -[3055.86 --> 3057.36] begins with the god -[3057.36 --> 3058.56] of the Israelites -[3058.56 --> 3059.78] eating up -[3059.78 --> 3062.02] a god to the Egyptians -[3062.02 --> 3063.76] in the symbol of the pharaoh. -[3065.74 --> 3067.98] The author wants us to see -[3067.98 --> 3071.26] that this is god against gods, -[3071.60 --> 3072.72] right from the beginning. -[3074.06 --> 3075.50] There's also a second point -[3075.50 --> 3076.88] to the symbol here. -[3076.88 --> 3079.32] And that comes from the word -[3079.32 --> 3081.60] that the Hebrew text uses for snake. -[3082.42 --> 3084.94] The word used for snake -[3084.94 --> 3087.16] is not the normal word -[3087.16 --> 3088.24] that the Bible uses. -[3088.42 --> 3089.16] And so, for instance, -[3089.34 --> 3090.10] if you're familiar -[3090.10 --> 3091.98] in the story of the fall, -[3092.08 --> 3093.26] the rebellion in creation -[3093.26 --> 3094.22] in Genesis 3, -[3094.34 --> 3094.92] a serpent, -[3095.14 --> 3095.62] a snake, -[3095.78 --> 3097.34] comes and tempts Eve -[3097.34 --> 3098.24] who then tempts Adam. -[3098.50 --> 3099.70] That's not the same word -[3099.70 --> 3100.88] that's used here -[3100.88 --> 3102.36] in Exodus 7. -[3102.42 --> 3102.88] Or even, -[3103.22 --> 3104.24] in Numbers 21, -[3104.24 --> 3105.18] you have the story -[3105.18 --> 3106.08] of a whole bunch -[3106.08 --> 3106.88] of venomous snakes -[3106.88 --> 3108.32] descending on the people -[3108.32 --> 3108.96] as they wandered -[3108.96 --> 3109.46] in the wilderness -[3109.46 --> 3110.70] and then Moses lifts up -[3110.70 --> 3111.60] a bronze snake -[3111.60 --> 3112.62] and if they look to that, -[3112.72 --> 3113.22] they're saved. -[3114.10 --> 3115.68] That's also a different word -[3115.68 --> 3116.40] for snake. -[3116.80 --> 3117.14] Instead, -[3118.10 --> 3119.40] the word that's used here -[3119.40 --> 3120.26] in this text -[3120.26 --> 3120.88] is a word -[3120.88 --> 3122.16] that is really translated -[3122.16 --> 3122.74] in a whole bunch -[3122.74 --> 3123.58] of different ways -[3123.58 --> 3126.32] ranging from sea monster -[3126.32 --> 3127.46] to jackal -[3127.46 --> 3128.54] to wild beasts -[3128.54 --> 3129.24] and yes, -[3129.40 --> 3131.04] to serpents. -[3132.62 --> 3133.00] And so, -[3133.00 --> 3134.04] that's not to say -[3134.04 --> 3134.98] that the word snake -[3134.98 --> 3135.76] isn't included -[3135.76 --> 3136.64] in the range of meaning -[3136.64 --> 3138.12] but it is to say -[3138.12 --> 3139.28] that when you look -[3139.28 --> 3139.86] at this word -[3139.86 --> 3140.78] in the Psalms -[3140.78 --> 3141.90] or in the prophets, -[3142.54 --> 3143.86] it's used to describe -[3143.86 --> 3145.08] the kinds of places -[3145.08 --> 3146.28] in the world -[3146.28 --> 3146.92] that are sort of -[3146.92 --> 3148.10] without God, -[3148.22 --> 3150.04] the desolate places, -[3150.62 --> 3150.72] right, -[3150.78 --> 3152.48] the godless places. -[3154.12 --> 3156.82] In Leviticus 16, -[3157.10 --> 3158.50] in the day of atonement ceremony, -[3158.50 --> 3160.22] you have the Israelites -[3160.22 --> 3162.20] having to sacrifice a lamb -[3162.20 --> 3163.08] and then they put the blood -[3163.08 --> 3163.84] on another goat -[3163.84 --> 3164.90] and they send that out -[3164.90 --> 3166.02] into the wilderness, -[3166.92 --> 3167.06] right, -[3167.10 --> 3169.32] the places without God, -[3170.10 --> 3170.32] right, -[3170.38 --> 3173.80] the chaoses of the universe -[3173.80 --> 3176.56] contrary to the places -[3176.56 --> 3178.52] of God's established order. -[3179.52 --> 3181.08] It's a word used -[3181.08 --> 3181.96] in the Old Testament -[3181.96 --> 3183.28] and in other ancient -[3183.28 --> 3184.20] Near Eastern cultures -[3184.20 --> 3185.44] to refer to -[3185.44 --> 3187.74] the chaotic forces of nature, -[3187.74 --> 3190.72] forces that Genesis tells us -[3190.72 --> 3191.70] the Lord, -[3191.92 --> 3192.44] Yahweh, -[3192.74 --> 3194.90] overcame in creation. -[3196.78 --> 3197.56] And so Pharaoh -[3197.56 --> 3199.88] with his magicians -[3199.88 --> 3200.88] and sorcerers -[3200.88 --> 3202.76] is a stand-in -[3202.76 --> 3203.68] right at the beginning -[3203.68 --> 3204.88] and then all the way -[3204.88 --> 3205.32] throughout -[3205.32 --> 3206.78] for all things -[3206.78 --> 3208.02] that are anti-God, -[3208.26 --> 3209.22] anti-creation, -[3209.46 --> 3210.44] anti-life, -[3210.84 --> 3212.62] which is the true, -[3212.76 --> 3214.10] which is what the true God -[3214.10 --> 3215.32] is all about, -[3215.56 --> 3215.82] right, -[3215.86 --> 3217.38] and who the true God -[3217.38 --> 3219.08] is about to reveal himself -[3219.08 --> 3221.38] in absolute power -[3221.38 --> 3223.04] through and over. -[3224.18 --> 3224.60] And so, -[3224.78 --> 3225.16] in summary, -[3225.28 --> 3226.60] this is a battle -[3226.60 --> 3228.34] between the true God -[3228.34 --> 3229.66] and false gods -[3229.66 --> 3230.60] and it is a battle -[3230.60 --> 3232.40] for and through -[3232.40 --> 3233.94] all of creation. -[3233.94 --> 3237.74] I'm going to run through -[3237.74 --> 3238.54] this pretty quickly -[3238.54 --> 3240.62] and so I want to encourage you -[3240.62 --> 3241.74] over the next week -[3241.74 --> 3243.50] to take this on -[3243.50 --> 3244.74] in your personal devotions, -[3245.00 --> 3245.18] right, -[3245.22 --> 3246.38] to get into the details -[3246.38 --> 3247.28] of each story. -[3247.46 --> 3248.28] We're going to sort of -[3248.28 --> 3249.90] take a 10,000 foot view -[3249.90 --> 3250.96] so you can see -[3250.96 --> 3252.62] what I think is the big point -[3252.62 --> 3253.50] of the story -[3253.50 --> 3254.64] and then you can take it home -[3254.64 --> 3256.24] and dig into the depths -[3256.24 --> 3257.82] throughout this week. -[3259.40 --> 3262.58] But if the opening story -[3262.58 --> 3264.88] is between Moses and Aaron -[3264.88 --> 3266.64] and the snakes being eaten, -[3266.82 --> 3267.98] the opening move -[3267.98 --> 3269.14] of this battle -[3269.14 --> 3271.94] is between God and God -[3271.94 --> 3272.96] takes place -[3272.96 --> 3274.98] along the Nile River. -[3276.18 --> 3277.02] Now, the Nile River -[3277.02 --> 3279.50] is the source of life -[3279.50 --> 3280.74] for the Egyptians -[3280.74 --> 3284.18] and it's also the source of death -[3284.18 --> 3285.80] for many Israelite boys -[3285.80 --> 3286.88] a generation earlier. -[3287.88 --> 3289.20] And this Nile River, -[3289.38 --> 3290.82] which was the source of life, -[3290.82 --> 3292.52] becomes death -[3292.52 --> 3293.92] for the Egyptians. -[3295.78 --> 3297.74] Now, for just a moment, -[3297.86 --> 3299.22] get past the gruesomeness -[3299.22 --> 3300.84] of everything being blood -[3300.84 --> 3303.78] and here's what you can see. -[3305.08 --> 3306.46] The Nile River -[3306.46 --> 3308.64] is also worshipped -[3308.64 --> 3309.34] in Egypt -[3309.34 --> 3310.74] as a god. -[3311.50 --> 3312.80] A god called Happy. -[3315.06 --> 3316.76] This god Happy -[3316.76 --> 3319.56] is representative -[3319.56 --> 3321.62] of life -[3321.62 --> 3322.62] and the changing -[3322.62 --> 3323.92] of seasons -[3323.92 --> 3325.20] and the provision -[3325.20 --> 3325.98] of life -[3325.98 --> 3326.96] that flows -[3326.96 --> 3327.94] along the Nile. -[3328.06 --> 3328.34] And so, -[3328.46 --> 3329.12] an attack -[3329.12 --> 3330.50] on the Nile -[3330.50 --> 3332.18] is an attack -[3332.18 --> 3333.72] on the entire structure -[3333.72 --> 3335.30] of Egyptian life. -[3335.86 --> 3336.60] Social life, -[3337.04 --> 3338.42] agrarian farming life, -[3338.48 --> 3339.62] and religious life. -[3340.24 --> 3340.36] Right? -[3340.46 --> 3341.82] All of Egyptian life -[3341.82 --> 3342.82] is sustained -[3342.82 --> 3343.96] and ruled -[3343.96 --> 3344.90] by the Nile, -[3345.02 --> 3345.82] by Happy. -[3345.82 --> 3347.82] It's the annual calendar -[3347.82 --> 3349.20] and the bringer -[3349.20 --> 3349.74] of life. -[3350.76 --> 3352.06] And at God's command, -[3352.56 --> 3353.44] the very order -[3353.44 --> 3354.50] of creation -[3354.50 --> 3355.96] is being reversed. -[3356.84 --> 3356.98] Right? -[3357.04 --> 3358.46] Returning to chaos -[3358.46 --> 3359.22] again -[3359.22 --> 3360.50] at the command -[3360.50 --> 3361.50] of God. -[3363.54 --> 3364.22] Remember what we said. -[3364.28 --> 3364.84] This is a battle -[3364.84 --> 3366.22] for and through -[3366.22 --> 3367.48] all of creation -[3367.48 --> 3369.02] between the one true God -[3369.02 --> 3370.48] and the false gods -[3370.48 --> 3371.68] of Egypt. -[3371.68 --> 3373.56] Now, -[3373.60 --> 3374.56] the second plague, -[3374.72 --> 3375.82] the plague of the frogs, -[3375.94 --> 3377.28] is a continued attack -[3377.28 --> 3378.02] by God -[3378.02 --> 3379.20] on the religious systems -[3379.20 --> 3380.24] of the Egyptians. -[3381.32 --> 3381.60] Heket -[3381.60 --> 3383.26] is the god -[3383.26 --> 3384.84] of childbirth -[3384.84 --> 3386.32] and fertility -[3386.32 --> 3387.10] depicted -[3387.10 --> 3389.04] in Egyptian art. -[3389.18 --> 3389.40] Sorry, -[3389.48 --> 3389.70] the goddess -[3389.70 --> 3390.94] of childbirth -[3390.94 --> 3392.38] depicted in Egyptian art -[3392.38 --> 3392.86] with the head -[3392.86 --> 3393.46] of a frog. -[3393.46 --> 3393.50] frog. -[3394.68 --> 3395.16] And so, -[3395.42 --> 3396.92] the plague -[3396.92 --> 3397.92] of frogs -[3397.92 --> 3399.62] can be understood -[3399.62 --> 3401.02] to be an attack -[3401.02 --> 3402.30] on Egyptian -[3402.30 --> 3403.46] fertility goddesses. -[3404.54 --> 3405.58] Perhaps as a direct -[3405.58 --> 3406.74] result of the Egyptians -[3406.74 --> 3407.88] trying to squash -[3407.88 --> 3408.46] the fertility -[3408.46 --> 3409.74] of the Israelites -[3409.74 --> 3411.02] generation before. -[3411.58 --> 3412.12] But again, -[3412.18 --> 3413.80] the point is being made. -[3413.94 --> 3414.02] Right? -[3414.12 --> 3414.68] Yahweh, -[3414.84 --> 3415.36] the Lord, -[3415.46 --> 3416.18] is bigger -[3416.18 --> 3416.92] than the gods -[3416.92 --> 3417.34] of Egypt -[3417.34 --> 3418.50] and will unleash -[3418.50 --> 3419.34] the forces -[3419.34 --> 3420.38] of his creation -[3420.38 --> 3421.40] to prove it. -[3422.60 --> 3423.58] This continues -[3423.58 --> 3424.66] in pattern. -[3424.80 --> 3424.90] Now, -[3424.96 --> 3425.88] the third plague, -[3426.70 --> 3427.92] as far as we know, -[3428.16 --> 3428.96] cannot be linked -[3428.96 --> 3430.98] to a particular god -[3430.98 --> 3432.94] in the Egyptian pantheon. -[3433.12 --> 3434.20] It is still important -[3434.20 --> 3434.88] to notice -[3434.88 --> 3436.06] where it comes from. -[3436.92 --> 3437.02] Right? -[3437.10 --> 3437.70] Plagues two -[3437.70 --> 3438.36] and three -[3438.36 --> 3438.98] and four -[3438.98 --> 3440.70] come from the water, -[3441.02 --> 3441.54] the dust, -[3441.74 --> 3442.30] and the air. -[3442.46 --> 3443.42] Frogs from the water, -[3443.80 --> 3444.68] gnats from the dust, -[3444.76 --> 3446.26] and flies from the air. -[3447.16 --> 3447.40] Right? -[3447.48 --> 3449.28] And many biblical scholars -[3449.28 --> 3450.02] notice that -[3450.02 --> 3451.56] these correspond -[3451.56 --> 3452.72] to the three -[3452.72 --> 3453.96] sort of sectors -[3453.96 --> 3454.92] or sections -[3454.92 --> 3456.12] of the ecosystem. -[3456.38 --> 3456.52] Right? -[3456.64 --> 3457.24] Water, -[3457.66 --> 3457.98] land, -[3458.10 --> 3458.84] and air. -[3459.62 --> 3460.64] And so the whole -[3460.64 --> 3462.16] land of the living -[3462.16 --> 3463.08] is controlled -[3463.08 --> 3464.30] by the Lord. -[3465.56 --> 3465.70] Now, -[3465.72 --> 3466.44] it's also interesting -[3466.44 --> 3467.74] for our comparison -[3467.74 --> 3468.46] to note that -[3468.46 --> 3470.08] the origin of this plague -[3470.08 --> 3471.02] is the dust. -[3471.54 --> 3471.78] Right? -[3471.84 --> 3472.78] When in Genesis 3 -[3472.78 --> 3474.02] you read -[3474.02 --> 3475.62] from dust you are -[3475.62 --> 3476.44] and to dust -[3476.44 --> 3477.84] you will return. -[3478.10 --> 3478.40] Dust -[3478.40 --> 3479.80] is for everyone -[3479.80 --> 3481.24] a sign of human -[3481.24 --> 3481.94] mortality -[3481.94 --> 3483.14] and death. -[3483.34 --> 3483.64] And so -[3483.64 --> 3485.36] here in contrast -[3485.36 --> 3486.52] to the fertility -[3486.52 --> 3487.64] of the Nile -[3487.64 --> 3489.80] and the overwhelming -[3489.80 --> 3492.22] lucrative life -[3492.22 --> 3493.34] of Egypt -[3493.34 --> 3494.14] you get -[3494.14 --> 3494.88] a symbol -[3494.88 --> 3495.50] and sign -[3495.50 --> 3496.76] of death. -[3497.18 --> 3497.44] Pharaoh -[3497.44 --> 3498.30] and the Egyptians -[3498.30 --> 3499.30] are being moved -[3499.30 --> 3500.00] towards -[3500.00 --> 3501.06] a recognition -[3501.06 --> 3502.20] of the one -[3502.20 --> 3503.02] true God -[3503.02 --> 3504.82] as the only God. -[3504.82 --> 3507.34] the fourth plague -[3507.34 --> 3507.84] comes -[3507.84 --> 3508.76] that's the flies -[3508.76 --> 3509.62] and it comes -[3509.62 --> 3510.38] from the air -[3510.38 --> 3511.00] and is used -[3511.00 --> 3511.54] by God -[3511.54 --> 3512.02] to show -[3512.02 --> 3512.72] the comprehensive -[3512.72 --> 3513.10] nature -[3513.10 --> 3513.78] of his power -[3513.78 --> 3514.36] over all -[3514.36 --> 3514.96] of creation. -[3514.96 --> 3516.16] The fourth plague -[3516.16 --> 3516.80] is also -[3516.80 --> 3517.92] the first plague -[3517.92 --> 3519.02] that explicitly -[3519.02 --> 3520.60] makes a distinction -[3520.60 --> 3521.86] between Israel -[3521.86 --> 3522.72] and the people -[3522.72 --> 3523.20] of Egypt -[3523.20 --> 3524.38] where things -[3524.38 --> 3524.86] are utterly -[3524.86 --> 3525.52] destroyed -[3525.52 --> 3526.54] in Egypt -[3526.54 --> 3527.42] except in the -[3527.42 --> 3528.44] region of Goshen -[3528.44 --> 3529.74] where the Israelites -[3529.74 --> 3530.14] lived. -[3530.72 --> 3531.52] This happens -[3531.52 --> 3532.74] at least four times -[3532.74 --> 3533.76] in the story -[3533.76 --> 3535.06] and you can -[3535.06 --> 3536.40] maybe read -[3536.40 --> 3537.08] between the lines -[3537.08 --> 3537.86] in a couple others -[3537.86 --> 3539.00] to see a distinction. -[3540.44 --> 3541.66] In the fifth plague -[3541.66 --> 3542.38] we come back -[3542.38 --> 3542.96] to an attack -[3542.96 --> 3543.72] on the Egyptian -[3543.72 --> 3545.20] pantheon of gods -[3545.20 --> 3545.92] and so here -[3545.92 --> 3546.52] we get the picture -[3546.52 --> 3547.62] of Hathor -[3547.62 --> 3548.56] who's the mother -[3548.56 --> 3549.60] and sky goddess -[3549.60 --> 3550.64] and is regularly -[3550.64 --> 3551.80] depicted as a cow. -[3553.32 --> 3554.28] The plague -[3554.28 --> 3555.18] of livestock -[3555.18 --> 3556.38] is another -[3556.38 --> 3557.26] strike -[3557.26 --> 3558.62] against Egypt's -[3558.62 --> 3559.92] apparent strength. -[3560.74 --> 3560.92] Right? -[3560.92 --> 3561.58] And here too -[3561.58 --> 3562.42] the reversal -[3562.42 --> 3563.80] of creation -[3563.80 --> 3564.36] order -[3564.36 --> 3565.30] for the revealing -[3565.30 --> 3566.90] of God's power -[3566.90 --> 3567.56] is evident. -[3567.74 --> 3567.82] Right? -[3567.92 --> 3568.84] Animals that once -[3568.84 --> 3570.00] provide life -[3570.00 --> 3570.64] for people -[3570.64 --> 3572.00] are taken from them -[3572.00 --> 3573.10] and the symbol -[3573.10 --> 3574.30] of new life -[3574.30 --> 3575.22] is bringing -[3575.22 --> 3576.64] only death. -[3578.38 --> 3579.16] The plague -[3579.16 --> 3579.68] of boils -[3579.68 --> 3580.56] the sixth plague -[3580.56 --> 3581.84] continues again -[3581.84 --> 3582.76] as another attack -[3582.76 --> 3583.82] on the religious system -[3583.82 --> 3585.82] making God supreme -[3585.82 --> 3586.60] because boils -[3586.60 --> 3587.36] would make you -[3587.36 --> 3589.12] ceremoniously unclean -[3589.12 --> 3589.84] therefore unable -[3589.84 --> 3591.02] to attend worship -[3591.02 --> 3591.72] in temples -[3591.72 --> 3593.74] and even in this one -[3593.74 --> 3594.12] we're told -[3594.12 --> 3594.98] the magicians -[3594.98 --> 3595.86] couldn't stand -[3595.86 --> 3596.74] before Moses -[3596.74 --> 3597.66] in the presence -[3597.66 --> 3598.20] of Pharaoh -[3598.20 --> 3599.42] because of the boils -[3599.42 --> 3600.04] on them -[3600.04 --> 3601.08] and maybe that means -[3601.08 --> 3601.64] they couldn't -[3601.64 --> 3602.62] reproduce this one. -[3604.18 --> 3605.38] The seventh plague -[3605.38 --> 3606.18] brings hail -[3606.18 --> 3607.12] and begins this -[3607.12 --> 3608.46] final set of three. -[3609.22 --> 3609.98] Now the record -[3609.98 --> 3610.62] and the story -[3610.62 --> 3611.18] of this plague -[3611.18 --> 3611.74] is the longest -[3611.74 --> 3613.22] in the narrative -[3613.22 --> 3615.50] save for the tenth plague -[3615.50 --> 3616.04] which includes -[3616.04 --> 3616.54] the Passover -[3616.54 --> 3617.62] and here -[3617.62 --> 3618.54] in this text -[3618.54 --> 3618.94] you get -[3618.94 --> 3620.18] the most -[3620.18 --> 3620.88] explicit -[3620.88 --> 3621.68] purpose -[3621.68 --> 3622.34] of God -[3622.34 --> 3622.90] for all -[3622.90 --> 3623.64] of these plagues -[3623.64 --> 3624.16] and so it's -[3624.16 --> 3625.20] worth looking at -[3625.20 --> 3626.26] from Exodus 9 -[3626.26 --> 3628.00] verse 14 -[3628.00 --> 3628.90] and 16. -[3630.90 --> 3631.76] It says -[3631.76 --> 3633.58] so that you may know -[3633.58 --> 3634.86] that there is no one -[3634.86 --> 3635.42] like me -[3635.42 --> 3636.38] in all the earth -[3636.38 --> 3637.48] for by now -[3637.48 --> 3637.98] I could have -[3637.98 --> 3638.92] stretched out my hand -[3638.92 --> 3639.68] and struck you -[3639.68 --> 3640.22] and your people -[3640.22 --> 3640.82] with a plague -[3640.82 --> 3641.58] that would have -[3641.58 --> 3642.52] wiped you off the earth -[3642.52 --> 3644.96] but I have raised you up -[3644.96 --> 3646.62] for this very purpose -[3646.62 --> 3648.60] that I might show you -[3648.60 --> 3649.36] my power -[3649.36 --> 3650.88] and that my name -[3650.88 --> 3652.00] might be proclaimed -[3652.00 --> 3654.20] in all the earth. -[3655.86 --> 3656.90] Two things stand out -[3656.90 --> 3657.58] to me in this -[3657.58 --> 3658.48] explanation. -[3658.74 --> 3658.96] One -[3658.96 --> 3661.98] God has restrained himself -[3661.98 --> 3663.26] in this -[3663.26 --> 3663.60] right? -[3663.64 --> 3664.12] He could have -[3664.12 --> 3665.16] ended the matter -[3665.16 --> 3666.10] but he didn't -[3666.10 --> 3667.34] and it's an interesting -[3667.34 --> 3668.34] point of grace -[3668.34 --> 3668.90] actually -[3668.90 --> 3669.80] in the midst -[3669.80 --> 3670.48] of this battle. -[3671.30 --> 3671.82] Two -[3671.82 --> 3673.48] that God's purpose -[3673.48 --> 3674.48] in all of this -[3674.48 --> 3675.70] here is not simply -[3675.70 --> 3677.24] the release of Israel -[3677.24 --> 3678.56] from slavery -[3678.56 --> 3679.60] so that they might go -[3679.60 --> 3680.56] and worship him -[3680.56 --> 3681.20] though we have seen -[3681.20 --> 3682.54] that as the big part -[3682.54 --> 3682.80] right? -[3683.10 --> 3683.54] Instead -[3683.54 --> 3684.64] God sees -[3684.64 --> 3685.68] that in this -[3685.68 --> 3686.82] is a fight -[3686.82 --> 3687.52] is a battle -[3687.52 --> 3688.18] is a war -[3688.18 --> 3689.36] that has worldwide -[3689.36 --> 3690.62] implications. -[3691.62 --> 3692.06] God says -[3692.06 --> 3693.26] that I might show you -[3693.26 --> 3693.80] Pharaoh -[3693.80 --> 3694.88] my power -[3694.88 --> 3695.90] and that my name -[3695.90 --> 3696.96] might be proclaimed -[3696.96 --> 3698.78] in all the earth -[3698.78 --> 3699.62] right? -[3699.70 --> 3700.64] So to Pharaoh -[3700.64 --> 3701.08] yes -[3701.08 --> 3702.82] but for all the earth -[3702.82 --> 3703.66] to know. -[3705.62 --> 3706.94] The eighth plague -[3706.94 --> 3708.40] the plague of locusts -[3708.40 --> 3709.44] takes this purpose -[3709.44 --> 3710.90] even further -[3710.90 --> 3713.08] chapter 10 -[3713.08 --> 3715.02] verse 1 and 2 -[3715.02 --> 3716.72] God says -[3716.72 --> 3718.10] that he is doing -[3718.10 --> 3718.64] this -[3718.64 --> 3719.72] so that -[3719.72 --> 3720.88] I may perform -[3720.88 --> 3721.98] these signs of mine -[3721.98 --> 3722.56] among them -[3722.56 --> 3724.18] that you may tell -[3724.18 --> 3725.00] your children -[3725.00 --> 3726.00] and grandchildren -[3726.00 --> 3726.74] how I dealt -[3726.74 --> 3728.04] harshly with the Egyptians -[3728.04 --> 3729.60] and how I performed -[3729.60 --> 3730.96] my signs among them -[3730.96 --> 3732.50] that you may -[3732.50 --> 3733.10] know -[3733.10 --> 3734.06] that I -[3734.06 --> 3735.14] am -[3735.14 --> 3736.36] the Lord. -[3738.24 --> 3738.44] Right? -[3738.48 --> 3739.18] Not only is God -[3739.18 --> 3739.82] doing this -[3739.82 --> 3741.30] to prove to the Egyptians -[3741.30 --> 3742.60] his superiority -[3742.60 --> 3744.92] but so that his own -[3744.92 --> 3745.48] people -[3745.48 --> 3747.02] might know -[3747.02 --> 3747.98] who he is. -[3748.62 --> 3748.82] Right? -[3748.86 --> 3750.04] The redemptive actions -[3750.04 --> 3750.52] of God -[3750.52 --> 3751.22] in this moment -[3751.22 --> 3752.36] are going to be -[3752.36 --> 3753.74] identity shaping -[3753.74 --> 3755.16] for generations -[3755.16 --> 3756.28] to come. -[3756.72 --> 3757.44] Right? -[3757.50 --> 3758.30] And in the light -[3758.30 --> 3759.36] of future -[3759.36 --> 3760.16] struggles -[3760.16 --> 3761.62] God's work -[3761.62 --> 3762.76] here and now -[3762.76 --> 3763.98] in and with -[3763.98 --> 3764.86] the Egyptians -[3764.86 --> 3766.36] will be a source -[3766.36 --> 3767.10] of strength -[3767.10 --> 3768.06] and comfort -[3768.06 --> 3768.86] in light of -[3768.86 --> 3769.78] whatever future -[3769.78 --> 3771.12] opposition they face. -[3771.40 --> 3771.52] Right? -[3771.56 --> 3772.16] In wandering -[3772.16 --> 3773.26] through the wilderness -[3773.26 --> 3773.94] the people -[3773.94 --> 3774.72] will be called -[3774.72 --> 3776.00] to look back -[3776.00 --> 3776.88] on this -[3776.88 --> 3777.88] experience -[3777.88 --> 3778.64] and remember -[3778.64 --> 3779.60] what God has done. -[3779.94 --> 3780.56] In entering -[3780.56 --> 3781.34] into the land -[3781.34 --> 3782.06] and having to -[3782.06 --> 3783.54] expel other nations -[3783.54 --> 3784.46] they will look back -[3784.46 --> 3785.14] and remember -[3785.14 --> 3786.48] what God has done. -[3786.74 --> 3787.18] Throughout their -[3787.18 --> 3788.70] captivity and exile -[3788.70 --> 3789.24] in Babylon -[3789.24 --> 3790.12] and Persia -[3790.12 --> 3791.60] they will look back -[3791.60 --> 3792.30] and remember -[3792.30 --> 3793.56] this moment -[3793.56 --> 3794.18] and what God -[3794.18 --> 3794.68] has done. -[3794.78 --> 3796.18] When Roman power -[3796.18 --> 3797.28] is overwhelming -[3797.28 --> 3798.90] and Jewish identity -[3798.90 --> 3800.62] is being lost. -[3801.04 --> 3801.12] Right? -[3801.18 --> 3801.92] The Messiah -[3801.92 --> 3802.66] himself -[3802.66 --> 3803.58] will come -[3803.58 --> 3804.62] and remind them -[3804.62 --> 3805.22] of all that -[3805.22 --> 3806.06] God has done -[3806.06 --> 3807.10] and will show -[3807.10 --> 3807.60] them -[3807.60 --> 3809.06] who his -[3809.06 --> 3809.96] show them -[3809.96 --> 3811.08] by his life -[3811.08 --> 3812.02] in the culmination -[3812.02 --> 3813.04] of the efforts -[3813.04 --> 3814.10] of God's work -[3814.10 --> 3815.16] in the world. -[3816.40 --> 3817.62] Pictured in Pharaoh -[3817.62 --> 3819.58] culminating -[3819.58 --> 3820.22] in the cross. -[3822.10 --> 3823.48] The ninth plague -[3823.48 --> 3824.50] ends this -[3824.50 --> 3825.46] literary cycle -[3825.46 --> 3826.82] with darkness -[3826.82 --> 3827.96] falling -[3827.96 --> 3829.30] on the land. -[3830.86 --> 3831.22] Again -[3831.22 --> 3832.62] this plague -[3832.62 --> 3833.14] is almost -[3833.14 --> 3834.10] certainly linked -[3834.10 --> 3834.92] to the Egyptian -[3834.92 --> 3835.82] sun god -[3835.82 --> 3836.46] Ra. -[3838.20 --> 3838.40] Right? -[3838.44 --> 3839.30] And even -[3839.30 --> 3839.92] more so -[3839.92 --> 3841.08] it's not uncommon -[3841.08 --> 3842.36] for Egyptian kings -[3842.36 --> 3843.28] to be referred to -[3843.28 --> 3844.40] as the son of Ra. -[3844.82 --> 3845.38] And so you will -[3845.38 --> 3846.10] remember the headdress -[3846.10 --> 3846.64] from the beginning -[3846.64 --> 3847.22] that had the symbol -[3847.22 --> 3847.72] of the Ra -[3847.72 --> 3848.40] of Ra -[3848.40 --> 3848.84] and then -[3848.84 --> 3850.00] of the snake. -[3851.34 --> 3851.72] Here -[3851.72 --> 3854.22] the god -[3854.22 --> 3855.34] of light -[3855.34 --> 3856.50] and sun -[3856.50 --> 3858.72] is defeated -[3858.72 --> 3860.08] with darkness -[3860.08 --> 3860.62] and yet -[3860.62 --> 3861.20] this is another -[3861.20 --> 3861.76] one of those -[3861.76 --> 3862.22] places -[3862.22 --> 3863.46] where the region -[3863.46 --> 3864.22] where the Israelites -[3864.22 --> 3865.36] lived was not -[3865.36 --> 3865.94] affected -[3865.94 --> 3867.62] by the darkness. -[3869.12 --> 3870.00] Imagine the -[3870.00 --> 3870.64] possibility -[3870.64 --> 3871.74] of that -[3871.74 --> 3873.04] or the impossibility -[3873.04 --> 3874.08] of how that -[3874.08 --> 3874.62] might work. -[3875.94 --> 3876.82] The phrase -[3876.82 --> 3877.32] actually -[3877.32 --> 3878.28] rendered -[3878.28 --> 3879.36] in verse 23 -[3879.36 --> 3880.20] of chapter 10 -[3880.20 --> 3881.74] there was light -[3881.74 --> 3883.24] in the place -[3883.24 --> 3884.18] where the Israelites -[3884.18 --> 3884.52] lived -[3884.52 --> 3885.24] is an echo -[3885.24 --> 3886.42] of Genesis 1 -[3886.42 --> 3887.30] verse 3 -[3887.30 --> 3887.94] when God said -[3887.94 --> 3888.80] let there be -[3888.80 --> 3889.72] light. -[3890.64 --> 3891.24] Again -[3891.24 --> 3891.86] holding out -[3891.86 --> 3893.44] that contrast -[3893.44 --> 3894.32] the scope -[3894.32 --> 3895.18] of this -[3895.18 --> 3896.02] event. -[3897.52 --> 3897.64] Now -[3897.64 --> 3897.92] throughout -[3897.92 --> 3898.76] these first -[3898.76 --> 3899.76] nine plagues -[3899.76 --> 3900.56] two things -[3900.56 --> 3902.00] become abundantly -[3902.00 --> 3902.44] clear. -[3903.34 --> 3903.98] The battle -[3903.98 --> 3904.86] is between -[3904.86 --> 3906.04] the true -[3906.04 --> 3906.54] god -[3906.54 --> 3907.42] and false -[3907.42 --> 3907.86] gods -[3907.86 --> 3909.28] and all -[3909.28 --> 3909.96] of creation -[3909.96 --> 3910.76] is the -[3910.76 --> 3911.54] battleground -[3911.54 --> 3912.62] and ultimately -[3912.62 --> 3913.82] all of creation -[3913.82 --> 3914.70] is what is -[3914.70 --> 3915.40] at stake. -[3916.38 --> 3917.00] God is -[3917.00 --> 3917.78] unleashing -[3917.78 --> 3918.56] his creative -[3918.56 --> 3919.42] forces against -[3919.42 --> 3920.32] all claims -[3920.32 --> 3921.72] to divinity -[3921.72 --> 3922.52] and he's -[3922.52 --> 3923.06] unleashing them -[3923.06 --> 3923.84] as the one -[3923.84 --> 3924.46] true god -[3924.46 --> 3925.54] as the only -[3925.54 --> 3927.02] true sovereign. -[3927.24 --> 3927.92] His rule -[3927.92 --> 3928.74] and reign -[3928.74 --> 3929.26] and his -[3929.26 --> 3930.04] absolute -[3930.04 --> 3930.90] worthiness -[3930.90 --> 3932.04] to be worshipped -[3932.04 --> 3933.30] is what -[3933.30 --> 3934.12] is on display -[3934.12 --> 3934.58] here. -[3934.58 --> 3937.34] here's what -[3937.34 --> 3937.82] I want us -[3937.82 --> 3938.30] to see -[3938.30 --> 3939.84] what I think -[3939.84 --> 3940.22] that all of -[3940.22 --> 3940.76] this has been -[3940.76 --> 3942.40] building towards -[3942.40 --> 3944.36] the plagues -[3944.36 --> 3945.40] and then -[3945.40 --> 3945.76] afterwards -[3945.76 --> 3946.28] of course -[3946.28 --> 3947.16] the exodus -[3947.16 --> 3949.04] becomes -[3949.04 --> 3949.56] the -[3949.56 --> 3950.96] paradigmatic -[3950.96 --> 3951.66] event -[3951.66 --> 3952.26] right -[3952.26 --> 3952.44] the -[3952.44 --> 3953.40] identity -[3953.40 --> 3954.54] defining -[3954.54 --> 3955.30] event -[3955.30 --> 3955.60] the -[3955.60 --> 3957.14] forming -[3957.14 --> 3958.42] experience -[3958.42 --> 3959.02] for -[3959.02 --> 3959.84] the people -[3959.84 --> 3960.38] of -[3960.38 --> 3961.14] Israel -[3961.14 --> 3962.34] this story -[3962.34 --> 3962.98] and the -[3962.98 --> 3963.36] victory -[3963.36 --> 3963.96] of God -[3963.96 --> 3965.02] this display -[3965.02 --> 3965.98] of his -[3965.98 --> 3966.70] power -[3966.70 --> 3967.74] is what -[3967.74 --> 3967.96] will -[3967.96 --> 3968.66] shape -[3968.66 --> 3969.16] them -[3969.16 --> 3970.00] for -[3970.00 --> 3970.32] the -[3970.32 --> 3970.80] futures -[3970.80 --> 3971.66] to come. -[3973.12 --> 3973.38] Remember -[3973.38 --> 3973.86] all of -[3973.86 --> 3974.24] this -[3974.24 --> 3974.46] right -[3974.46 --> 3974.78] this whole -[3974.78 --> 3975.16] story -[3975.16 --> 3975.34] in -[3975.34 --> 3975.72] exodus -[3975.72 --> 3976.28] has been -[3976.28 --> 3976.80] so that -[3976.80 --> 3977.44] God's -[3977.44 --> 3977.78] people -[3977.78 --> 3978.08] can -[3978.08 --> 3978.50] worship -[3978.50 --> 3978.88] him -[3978.88 --> 3979.60] rightly -[3979.60 --> 3980.16] but -[3980.16 --> 3980.58] here -[3980.58 --> 3981.02] it's -[3981.02 --> 3981.50] also -[3981.50 --> 3982.34] so much -[3982.34 --> 3982.62] more -[3982.62 --> 3982.82] than -[3982.82 --> 3983.14] that -[3983.14 --> 3984.24] right -[3984.24 --> 3984.56] all -[3984.56 --> 3984.80] of -[3984.80 --> 3985.08] this -[3985.08 --> 3985.32] is -[3985.32 --> 3985.54] so -[3985.54 --> 3985.78] that -[3985.78 --> 3986.10] I -[3986.10 --> 3986.36] God -[3986.36 --> 3986.68] says -[3986.68 --> 3986.94] might -[3986.94 --> 3987.28] show -[3987.28 --> 3987.54] my -[3987.54 --> 3988.04] power -[3988.04 --> 3988.48] and -[3988.48 --> 3988.62] that -[3988.62 --> 3988.86] my -[3988.86 --> 3989.22] name -[3989.22 --> 3989.42] might -[3989.42 --> 3989.58] be -[3989.58 --> 3990.02] proclaimed -[3990.02 --> 3990.24] in -[3990.24 --> 3990.50] all -[3990.50 --> 3990.68] the -[3990.68 --> 3990.90] earth -[3990.90 --> 3991.26] all -[3991.26 --> 3991.42] of -[3991.42 --> 3991.68] this -[3991.68 --> 3991.90] is -[3991.90 --> 3992.12] so -[3992.12 --> 3992.32] that -[3992.32 --> 3992.78] you -[3992.78 --> 3993.10] may -[3993.10 --> 3993.42] know -[3993.42 --> 3993.68] that -[3993.68 --> 3994.12] I -[3994.12 --> 3994.50] am -[3994.50 --> 3994.94] the -[3994.94 --> 3995.22] Lord -[3995.22 --> 3995.60] all -[3995.60 --> 3995.78] of -[3995.78 --> 3996.06] this -[3996.06 --> 3996.28] is -[3996.28 --> 3996.44] so -[3996.44 --> 3996.60] that -[3996.60 --> 3996.76] you -[3996.76 --> 3996.98] may -[3996.98 --> 3997.24] tell -[3997.24 --> 3997.46] your -[3997.46 --> 3997.90] children -[3997.90 --> 3998.50] and -[3998.50 --> 3998.68] your -[3998.68 --> 3999.26] grandchildren -[3999.26 --> 3999.68] tell -[3999.68 --> 3999.92] your -[3999.92 --> 4000.42] children -[4000.42 --> 4000.92] and -[4000.92 --> 4001.10] your -[4001.10 --> 4001.68] grandchildren -[4001.68 --> 4001.96] the -[4001.96 --> 4002.46] activity -[4002.46 --> 4003.06] of -[4003.06 --> 4003.40] God -[4003.40 --> 4003.60] in -[4003.60 --> 4003.74] the -[4003.74 --> 4004.10] world -[4004.10 --> 4004.82] because -[4004.82 --> 4005.00] the -[4005.00 --> 4005.46] activity -[4005.46 --> 4005.76] of -[4005.76 --> 4006.02] God -[4006.02 --> 4006.18] in -[4006.18 --> 4006.30] the -[4006.30 --> 4006.56] world -[4006.56 --> 4006.88] is -[4006.88 --> 4007.14] the -[4007.14 --> 4007.86] story -[4007.86 --> 4008.44] that -[4008.44 --> 4009.04] grounds -[4009.04 --> 4009.38] your -[4009.38 --> 4009.98] faith -[4009.98 --> 4010.58] in -[4010.58 --> 4011.20] him -[4011.20 --> 4012.20] the -[4012.20 --> 4013.14] experience -[4013.14 --> 4013.46] of -[4013.46 --> 4013.82] God -[4013.82 --> 4014.12] at -[4014.12 --> 4014.38] work -[4014.38 --> 4014.62] in -[4014.62 --> 4014.80] the -[4014.80 --> 4015.16] world -[4015.16 --> 4015.42] is -[4015.42 --> 4015.60] the -[4015.60 --> 4016.12] narrative -[4016.12 --> 4016.58] is -[4016.58 --> 4017.08] the -[4017.08 --> 4017.68] word -[4017.68 --> 4018.44] that -[4020.90 --> 4022.02] this -[4022.02 --> 4022.74] story -[4022.74 --> 4023.10] and -[4023.10 --> 4023.32] its -[4023.32 --> 4023.82] telling -[4023.82 --> 4024.10] and -[4024.10 --> 4025.10] retelling -[4025.10 --> 4025.58] would -[4025.58 --> 4025.86] come -[4025.86 --> 4026.10] to -[4026.10 --> 4026.66] define -[4026.66 --> 4026.88] an -[4026.88 --> 4027.30] entire -[4027.30 --> 4028.00] nation -[4028.00 --> 4028.24] of -[4028.24 --> 4028.54] people -[4028.54 --> 4028.92] for -[4028.92 --> 4029.04] an -[4029.04 --> 4029.34] entire -[4029.34 --> 4029.88] history -[4029.88 --> 4030.32] you -[4030.32 --> 4030.46] are -[4030.46 --> 4030.72] not -[4030.72 --> 4030.96] meant -[4030.96 --> 4031.14] to -[4031.14 --> 4031.40] just -[4031.40 --> 4031.78] hear -[4031.78 --> 4032.12] this -[4032.12 --> 4032.74] story -[4032.74 --> 4033.16] but -[4033.16 --> 4033.32] to -[4033.32 --> 4034.12] experience -[4034.12 --> 4034.60] it -[4034.60 --> 4035.04] in -[4035.04 --> 4035.26] its -[4035.26 --> 4035.86] retelling -[4035.86 --> 4036.14] to -[4036.14 --> 4037.10] relive -[4037.10 --> 4037.32] it -[4037.32 --> 4037.52] and -[4037.52 --> 4037.68] then -[4037.68 --> 4038.06] by -[4038.06 --> 4038.50] the -[4038.50 --> 4039.08] reliving -[4039.08 --> 4039.50] in -[4039.50 --> 4039.64] the -[4039.64 --> 4040.16] retelling -[4040.16 --> 4040.44] to -[4040.44 --> 4041.72] experience -[4041.72 --> 4042.40] the -[4042.40 --> 4042.80] God -[4042.80 --> 4043.00] who -[4043.00 --> 4043.18] is -[4043.18 --> 4043.66] behind -[4043.66 --> 4043.98] it -[4043.98 --> 4044.32] and -[4044.32 --> 4044.42] who -[4044.42 --> 4044.52] is -[4044.52 --> 4044.66] at -[4044.66 --> 4045.08] work -[4045.08 --> 4045.58] in -[4045.58 --> 4045.72] the -[4045.72 --> 4045.94] midst -[4045.94 --> 4046.12] of -[4046.12 --> 4046.28] it -[4046.28 --> 4047.98] and -[4047.98 --> 4048.10] so -[4048.10 --> 4048.38] even -[4048.38 --> 4048.64] for -[4048.64 --> 4048.96] us -[4048.96 --> 4049.48] today -[4049.48 --> 4049.88] with -[4049.88 --> 4052.10] the -[4052.10 --> 4052.30] Holy -[4052.30 --> 4052.92] Spirit -[4052.92 --> 4054.16] at -[4054.16 --> 4055.26] work -[4055.26 --> 4055.86] these -[4055.86 --> 4056.40] words -[4056.40 --> 4057.06] drive -[4057.06 --> 4057.44] us -[4057.44 --> 4057.60] are -[4057.60 --> 4058.32] intended -[4058.32 --> 4058.64] to -[4058.64 --> 4059.02] drive -[4059.02 --> 4059.28] us -[4059.28 --> 4059.56] to -[4059.56 --> 4060.02] the -[4060.02 --> 4060.40] word -[4060.40 --> 4060.98] made -[4060.98 --> 4061.72] flesh -[4061.72 --> 4063.54] right -[4063.54 --> 4063.68] if -[4063.68 --> 4063.84] the -[4063.84 --> 4064.22] plagues -[4064.22 --> 4064.42] and -[4064.42 --> 4064.56] the -[4064.56 --> 4064.98] exodus -[4064.98 --> 4065.24] are -[4065.24 --> 4065.48] those -[4065.48 --> 4066.44] paradigmatic -[4066.44 --> 4067.42] defining -[4067.42 --> 4068.06] identity -[4068.06 --> 4068.56] events -[4068.56 --> 4069.14] for the -[4069.14 --> 4069.58] Israelites -[4069.58 --> 4069.86] the -[4069.86 --> 4070.38] story -[4070.38 --> 4071.12] actually -[4071.12 --> 4071.48] goes -[4071.48 --> 4071.98] further -[4071.98 --> 4073.26] because -[4073.26 --> 4073.48] the -[4073.48 --> 4073.74] coming -[4073.74 --> 4073.98] of -[4073.98 --> 4074.30] Jesus -[4074.30 --> 4074.70] too -[4074.70 --> 4075.02] has -[4075.02 --> 4075.48] these -[4075.48 --> 4075.86] same -[4075.86 --> 4076.14] sort -[4076.14 --> 4076.26] of -[4076.26 --> 4076.92] worldwide -[4076.92 --> 4077.92] implications -[4077.92 --> 4078.52] and -[4078.52 --> 4078.64] it -[4078.64 --> 4078.78] is -[4078.78 --> 4079.06] a -[4079.06 --> 4079.92] the -[4079.92 --> 4080.98] paradigmatic -[4080.98 --> 4081.44] event -[4081.44 --> 4081.76] for -[4081.76 --> 4082.16] all -[4082.16 --> 4082.36] of -[4082.36 --> 4082.80] history -[4082.80 --> 4084.00] and -[4084.00 --> 4084.24] like -[4084.24 --> 4084.44] the -[4084.44 --> 4084.94] plague's -[4084.94 --> 4085.52] story -[4085.52 --> 4086.40] creation -[4086.40 --> 4086.94] here -[4086.94 --> 4087.34] too -[4087.34 --> 4087.84] is -[4087.84 --> 4088.58] proclaiming -[4088.58 --> 4088.76] the -[4088.76 --> 4089.14] coming -[4089.14 --> 4089.64] of -[4089.64 --> 4090.04] Jesus -[4090.04 --> 4090.42] right -[4090.42 --> 4090.60] with -[4090.60 --> 4091.06] stars -[4091.06 --> 4091.34] that -[4091.34 --> 4092.08] lead -[4092.08 --> 4092.34] the -[4092.34 --> 4092.80] magi -[4092.80 --> 4093.22] from -[4093.22 --> 4093.36] the -[4093.36 --> 4093.62] east -[4093.62 --> 4093.80] with -[4093.80 --> 4094.40] water -[4094.40 --> 4094.74] being -[4094.74 --> 4095.04] turned -[4095.04 --> 4095.36] into -[4095.36 --> 4095.74] wine -[4095.74 --> 4095.98] with -[4095.98 --> 4096.56] fish -[4096.56 --> 4096.84] and -[4096.84 --> 4097.16] bread -[4097.16 --> 4097.52] being -[4097.52 --> 4098.08] multiplied -[4098.08 --> 4098.66] with -[4098.66 --> 4099.20] disabled -[4099.20 --> 4099.68] bodies -[4099.68 --> 4100.08] being -[4100.08 --> 4100.72] healed -[4100.72 --> 4101.22] Jesus -[4101.22 --> 4101.76] walks -[4101.76 --> 4102.04] on -[4102.04 --> 4102.68] water -[4102.68 --> 4103.06] Jesus -[4103.06 --> 4103.66] commands -[4103.66 --> 4104.28] storms -[4104.28 --> 4104.54] to -[4104.54 --> 4104.96] cease -[4104.96 --> 4105.36] and -[4105.36 --> 4105.52] he -[4105.52 --> 4105.76] makes -[4105.76 --> 4106.08] fig -[4106.14 --> 4106.50] trees -[4106.50 --> 4107.26] wither -[4107.26 --> 4108.84] as -[4108.84 --> 4109.08] the -[4109.08 --> 4109.62] plagues -[4109.62 --> 4110.66] proved -[4110.66 --> 4111.14] God's -[4111.14 --> 4111.80] presence -[4111.80 --> 4112.26] among -[4112.26 --> 4112.66] his -[4112.66 --> 4113.16] people -[4113.16 --> 4113.70] and -[4113.70 --> 4114.00] as -[4114.00 --> 4114.44] sovereign -[4114.44 --> 4114.90] over -[4114.90 --> 4115.70] creation -[4115.70 --> 4116.10] in the -[4116.10 --> 4116.50] past -[4116.50 --> 4117.04] Jesus -[4117.04 --> 4117.94] is doing -[4117.94 --> 4118.64] the same -[4118.64 --> 4119.20] things -[4119.20 --> 4120.66] and it's -[4120.66 --> 4121.28] a clear -[4121.28 --> 4121.88] indication -[4121.88 --> 4122.70] that once -[4122.70 --> 4123.00] again -[4123.00 --> 4123.50] God -[4123.50 --> 4124.36] is walking -[4124.36 --> 4125.00] among -[4125.00 --> 4125.66] his -[4125.66 --> 4126.48] people -[4126.48 --> 4127.32] the -[4127.32 --> 4127.70] disciples -[4127.70 --> 4128.12] said of -[4128.12 --> 4128.40] Jesus -[4128.40 --> 4129.36] who is -[4129.36 --> 4130.08] this man -[4130.08 --> 4130.60] that even -[4130.60 --> 4131.28] the wind -[4131.28 --> 4131.98] and the -[4131.98 --> 4132.50] waves -[4132.50 --> 4133.48] obey him -[4133.48 --> 4133.98] even -[4133.98 --> 4134.98] the chaos -[4134.98 --> 4135.74] of the -[4135.74 --> 4136.28] sea -[4136.28 --> 4137.18] is under -[4137.18 --> 4137.68] his -[4137.68 --> 4138.52] control -[4138.52 --> 4141.08] and -[4141.08 --> 4141.34] Jesus -[4141.34 --> 4141.86] says -[4141.86 --> 4142.58] the exact -[4142.58 --> 4142.94] same -[4142.94 --> 4143.40] things -[4143.40 --> 4143.90] about -[4143.90 --> 4144.26] his -[4144.26 --> 4144.76] purposes -[4144.76 --> 4145.44] as -[4145.44 --> 4145.72] God -[4145.72 --> 4146.16] says -[4146.16 --> 4146.72] about -[4146.72 --> 4147.22] his -[4147.22 --> 4147.62] purposes -[4147.62 --> 4148.16] in -[4148.16 --> 4148.30] the -[4148.30 --> 4148.70] plagues -[4148.70 --> 4150.44] Jesus -[4150.44 --> 4150.96] says to -[4150.96 --> 4151.10] his -[4151.10 --> 4151.52] disciples -[4151.52 --> 4151.88] you -[4151.88 --> 4152.14] will -[4152.14 --> 4152.38] be -[4152.38 --> 4152.66] my -[4152.66 --> 4153.18] witnesses -[4153.18 --> 4153.64] in -[4153.64 --> 4154.44] Jerusalem -[4154.44 --> 4154.96] and in -[4154.96 --> 4155.42] Judea -[4155.42 --> 4155.80] and in -[4155.80 --> 4156.30] Samaria -[4156.30 --> 4157.16] and to -[4157.16 --> 4157.46] the -[4157.46 --> 4157.98] ends -[4157.98 --> 4158.40] of -[4158.40 --> 4158.80] the -[4158.80 --> 4159.72] earth -[4159.72 --> 4162.62] that the -[4162.62 --> 4162.84] whole -[4162.84 --> 4163.58] world -[4163.58 --> 4164.60] might -[4164.60 --> 4164.94] know -[4164.94 --> 4167.26] Peter -[4167.26 --> 4167.84] preaches -[4167.84 --> 4168.22] in the -[4168.22 --> 4168.54] power of -[4168.54 --> 4168.64] the -[4168.64 --> 4168.82] Holy -[4168.82 --> 4169.14] Spirit -[4169.14 --> 4169.32] the -[4169.32 --> 4169.64] promise -[4169.64 --> 4169.84] is -[4169.84 --> 4170.02] for -[4170.02 --> 4170.38] you -[4170.38 --> 4170.86] and -[4170.86 --> 4171.04] for -[4171.04 --> 4171.22] your -[4171.22 --> 4171.70] children -[4171.70 --> 4172.24] for -[4172.24 --> 4172.54] all -[4172.54 --> 4172.76] whom -[4172.76 --> 4172.96] are -[4172.96 --> 4173.26] far -[4173.26 --> 4173.52] off -[4173.52 --> 4173.64] and -[4173.64 --> 4173.80] for -[4173.80 --> 4174.06] all -[4174.06 --> 4174.36] whom -[4174.36 --> 4174.78] the -[4174.78 --> 4175.04] Lord -[4175.04 --> 4175.28] our -[4175.28 --> 4175.52] God -[4175.52 --> 4175.70] will -[4175.70 --> 4175.96] call -[4175.96 --> 4176.52] tell -[4176.52 --> 4176.80] your -[4176.80 --> 4177.24] children -[4177.24 --> 4177.62] tell -[4177.62 --> 4178.08] your -[4178.08 --> 4178.62] grandchildren -[4178.62 --> 4178.98] this -[4178.98 --> 4179.44] promise -[4179.44 --> 4179.98] is -[4179.98 --> 4180.16] for -[4180.16 --> 4180.44] them -[4180.44 --> 4182.16] tell -[4182.16 --> 4182.36] your -[4182.36 --> 4182.74] nieces -[4182.74 --> 4183.38] and -[4183.38 --> 4183.86] nephews -[4183.86 --> 4184.12] tell -[4184.12 --> 4184.36] your -[4184.36 --> 4185.08] neighbors -[4185.08 --> 4185.66] and -[4185.66 --> 4185.82] your -[4185.82 --> 4186.18] friends -[4186.18 --> 4186.54] this -[4186.54 --> 4187.16] promise -[4187.16 --> 4187.78] is -[4187.78 --> 4188.02] held -[4188.02 --> 4188.30] out -[4188.30 --> 4188.74] for -[4188.74 --> 4189.02] them -[4189.02 --> 4190.28] Jesus -[4190.28 --> 4190.82] came -[4190.82 --> 4191.06] to -[4191.06 --> 4191.34] live -[4191.34 --> 4191.54] the -[4191.54 --> 4191.82] life -[4191.82 --> 4192.02] I -[4192.02 --> 4192.20] should -[4192.20 --> 4192.34] have -[4192.34 --> 4192.58] lived -[4192.58 --> 4192.74] and -[4192.74 --> 4193.44] died -[4193.44 --> 4193.72] the -[4193.72 --> 4194.04] death -[4194.04 --> 4194.46] that -[4194.46 --> 4194.62] I -[4194.62 --> 4195.18] deserved -[4195.18 --> 4195.58] and -[4195.58 --> 4196.68] this -[4196.68 --> 4196.94] isn't -[4196.94 --> 4197.06] going -[4197.06 --> 4197.22] to be -[4197.22 --> 4197.48] on the -[4197.48 --> 4197.78] screen -[4197.78 --> 4200.50] Philippians -[4200.50 --> 4200.78] 2 -[4200.78 --> 4201.32] Jesus -[4201.32 --> 4201.70] lived -[4201.70 --> 4201.84] the -[4201.84 --> 4204.32] life -[4204.32 --> 4204.56] that -[4204.56 --> 4204.80] I -[4204.80 --> 4206.08] couldn't -[4206.08 --> 4206.38] live -[4206.38 --> 4206.56] and -[4206.56 --> 4206.82] died -[4206.82 --> 4207.02] the -[4207.02 --> 4207.26] death -[4207.26 --> 4207.44] that -[4207.44 --> 4207.58] I -[4207.58 --> 4208.00] deserved -[4208.00 --> 4208.36] and -[4208.36 --> 4208.66] because -[4208.66 --> 4209.06] of -[4209.06 --> 4209.20] that -[4209.20 --> 4209.54] become -[4209.54 --> 4209.70] he -[4209.70 --> 4210.12] became -[4210.12 --> 4210.66] obedient -[4210.66 --> 4211.28] to -[4211.28 --> 4211.56] death -[4211.56 --> 4211.78] on -[4211.78 --> 4211.92] the -[4211.92 --> 4212.32] cross -[4212.32 --> 4213.60] Philippians -[4213.60 --> 4213.84] 2 -[4213.84 --> 4214.06] verse -[4214.06 --> 4214.36] 9 -[4214.36 --> 4214.88] therefore -[4214.88 --> 4215.92] God -[4215.92 --> 4216.54] exalted -[4216.54 --> 4216.92] him -[4216.92 --> 4217.28] to the -[4217.28 --> 4217.68] highest -[4217.68 --> 4218.16] place -[4218.16 --> 4218.38] and -[4218.38 --> 4218.72] gave -[4218.72 --> 4218.94] him -[4218.94 --> 4219.14] the -[4219.14 --> 4219.62] name -[4219.62 --> 4220.04] that -[4220.04 --> 4220.22] is -[4220.22 --> 4220.48] above -[4220.48 --> 4221.00] every -[4221.00 --> 4221.42] name -[4221.42 --> 4221.84] that -[4221.84 --> 4222.02] at -[4222.02 --> 4222.18] the -[4222.18 --> 4222.42] name -[4222.42 --> 4222.58] of -[4222.58 --> 4222.90] Jesus -[4222.90 --> 4223.38] every -[4223.38 --> 4223.68] knee -[4223.68 --> 4223.90] should -[4223.90 --> 4224.16] bow -[4224.16 --> 4224.32] in -[4224.32 --> 4224.56] heaven -[4224.56 --> 4224.80] and -[4224.80 --> 4224.92] on -[4224.92 --> 4225.14] earth -[4225.14 --> 4225.26] and -[4225.26 --> 4225.50] under -[4225.50 --> 4225.64] the -[4225.64 --> 4225.82] earth -[4225.82 --> 4225.96] and -[4225.96 --> 4226.42] every -[4226.42 --> 4226.78] tongue -[4226.78 --> 4227.40] confess -[4227.40 --> 4227.92] and -[4227.92 --> 4228.36] acknowledge -[4228.36 --> 4228.62] that -[4228.62 --> 4229.00] Jesus -[4229.00 --> 4229.62] Christ -[4229.62 --> 4230.46] is -[4230.46 --> 4231.30] Lord -[4231.30 --> 4232.40] to the -[4232.40 --> 4232.88] glory -[4232.88 --> 4234.20] of God -[4234.20 --> 4234.90] the -[4234.90 --> 4235.26] Father -[4235.26 --> 4237.52] God -[4237.52 --> 4237.88] says that -[4237.88 --> 4238.02] his -[4238.02 --> 4238.54] purpose -[4238.54 --> 4239.08] is that -[4239.08 --> 4239.26] his -[4239.26 --> 4239.68] power -[4239.68 --> 4240.12] might be -[4240.12 --> 4240.42] known -[4240.42 --> 4240.60] that -[4240.60 --> 4240.78] his -[4240.78 --> 4241.08] name -[4241.08 --> 4241.28] might -[4241.28 --> 4241.44] be -[4241.44 --> 4241.94] proclaimed -[4241.94 --> 4242.44] in -[4242.44 --> 4242.70] all -[4242.70 --> 4242.88] the -[4242.88 --> 4243.12] earth -[4243.12 --> 4243.74] that -[4243.74 --> 4244.32] is -[4244.32 --> 4244.76] why -[4244.76 --> 4245.48] Jesus -[4245.48 --> 4246.42] came -[4246.42 --> 4248.86] and -[4248.86 --> 4249.08] so -[4249.08 --> 4251.58] in -[4251.58 --> 4251.72] the -[4251.72 --> 4251.98] first -[4251.98 --> 4252.50] place -[4252.50 --> 4254.52] we -[4254.52 --> 4255.30] apply -[4255.30 --> 4255.98] the -[4255.98 --> 4257.08] themes -[4257.08 --> 4257.42] of -[4257.42 --> 4257.70] the -[4257.70 --> 4258.30] plague -[4258.30 --> 4258.54] the -[4258.54 --> 4259.42] story -[4259.42 --> 4259.86] of -[4259.86 --> 4260.34] the -[4260.34 --> 4260.70] plague -[4260.70 --> 4260.94] by -[4260.94 --> 4261.26] letting -[4261.26 --> 4261.48] it -[4261.48 --> 4261.92] sink -[4261.92 --> 4262.56] deep -[4262.56 --> 4263.34] into -[4263.34 --> 4263.90] our -[4263.90 --> 4265.00] imaginations -[4265.00 --> 4265.66] the -[4265.66 --> 4266.40] majesty -[4266.40 --> 4267.00] and the -[4267.00 --> 4267.60] power -[4267.60 --> 4268.32] of who -[4268.32 --> 4268.58] God -[4268.58 --> 4268.90] is -[4268.90 --> 4269.30] the -[4269.30 --> 4269.96] impact -[4269.96 --> 4270.56] of this -[4270.56 --> 4270.96] text -[4270.96 --> 4271.46] of this -[4271.46 --> 4272.00] story -[4272.00 --> 4272.46] the -[4272.46 --> 4273.08] application -[4273.08 --> 4273.76] here -[4273.76 --> 4274.04] is -[4274.04 --> 4274.76] wow -[4274.76 --> 4276.30] right -[4276.30 --> 4276.44] in -[4276.44 --> 4276.78] hearing -[4276.78 --> 4277.10] this -[4277.10 --> 4277.50] story -[4277.50 --> 4277.74] our -[4277.74 --> 4278.10] hearts -[4278.10 --> 4278.52] and -[4278.52 --> 4278.68] our -[4278.68 --> 4279.00] minds -[4279.00 --> 4279.22] are -[4279.22 --> 4279.66] opened -[4279.66 --> 4279.96] up -[4279.96 --> 4280.24] to -[4280.24 --> 4280.80] what -[4280.80 --> 4281.44] God -[4281.44 --> 4281.74] has -[4281.74 --> 4282.02] done -[4282.02 --> 4282.28] in -[4282.28 --> 4282.70] history -[4282.70 --> 4283.08] and -[4283.08 --> 4283.22] to -[4283.22 --> 4283.42] who -[4283.42 --> 4283.70] God -[4283.70 --> 4284.00] is -[4284.00 --> 4284.12] and -[4284.12 --> 4284.28] his -[4284.28 --> 4284.62] purposes -[4284.62 --> 4285.06] and -[4285.06 --> 4285.26] how -[4285.26 --> 4285.46] we -[4285.46 --> 4285.64] can -[4285.64 --> 4285.90] better -[4285.90 --> 4286.66] understand -[4286.66 --> 4287.28] him -[4287.28 --> 4287.64] and -[4287.64 --> 4287.92] our -[4287.92 --> 4288.64] only -[4288.64 --> 4289.12] right -[4289.12 --> 4289.86] response -[4289.86 --> 4290.10] in -[4290.10 --> 4290.50] seeing -[4290.50 --> 4290.78] that -[4290.78 --> 4291.02] is -[4291.02 --> 4291.52] behold -[4291.52 --> 4292.52] our -[4292.52 --> 4293.34] God -[4293.34 --> 4294.08] the -[4294.08 --> 4294.34] only -[4294.34 --> 4294.68] right -[4294.68 --> 4295.22] response -[4295.22 --> 4295.66] is -[4295.66 --> 4296.68] worship -[4296.68 --> 4300.36] and -[4300.36 --> 4300.68] seeing -[4300.68 --> 4301.18] God -[4301.18 --> 4301.82] in -[4301.82 --> 4302.06] this -[4302.06 --> 4302.44] light -[4302.44 --> 4302.94] seeing -[4302.94 --> 4303.24] the -[4303.24 --> 4303.72] plagues -[4303.72 --> 4304.20] as -[4304.20 --> 4304.76] exposing -[4304.76 --> 4305.60] false -[4305.60 --> 4306.30] gods -[4306.30 --> 4307.44] in -[4307.44 --> 4308.04] Egypt -[4308.04 --> 4309.38] begs -[4309.38 --> 4309.58] the -[4309.58 --> 4310.16] question -[4310.16 --> 4310.50] for -[4310.50 --> 4310.72] your -[4310.72 --> 4311.38] discernment -[4311.38 --> 4312.72] begs -[4312.72 --> 4312.88] the -[4312.88 --> 4313.20] question -[4313.20 --> 4313.44] for -[4313.44 --> 4313.66] your -[4313.66 --> 4314.26] application -[4314.26 --> 4315.88] what -[4315.88 --> 4316.24] false -[4316.24 --> 4316.56] gods -[4316.56 --> 4316.72] are -[4316.72 --> 4316.96] being -[4316.96 --> 4317.48] exposed -[4317.48 --> 4317.78] in -[4317.78 --> 4317.96] your -[4317.96 --> 4318.40] heart -[4318.40 --> 4319.82] who -[4319.82 --> 4320.26] or -[4320.26 --> 4320.72] what -[4320.72 --> 4321.00] are -[4321.00 --> 4321.28] you -[4321.28 --> 4321.64] looking -[4321.64 --> 4321.88] to -[4321.88 --> 4322.20] as -[4322.20 --> 4322.46] the -[4322.46 --> 4322.80] source -[4322.80 --> 4323.10] of -[4323.10 --> 4323.86] life -[4323.86 --> 4325.20] right -[4325.20 --> 4325.38] it -[4325.38 --> 4325.56] may -[4325.56 --> 4325.78] not -[4325.78 --> 4326.06] be -[4326.06 --> 4326.44] the -[4326.44 --> 4326.74] Nile -[4326.74 --> 4327.20] river -[4327.20 --> 4328.16] it -[4328.16 --> 4328.28] may -[4328.28 --> 4328.46] not -[4328.46 --> 4328.64] be -[4328.64 --> 4329.02] happy -[4329.02 --> 4329.48] but -[4329.48 --> 4329.74] maybe -[4329.74 --> 4330.00] it's -[4330.00 --> 4330.56] happiness -[4330.56 --> 4333.54] right -[4333.54 --> 4333.76] because -[4333.76 --> 4334.02] if it -[4334.02 --> 4334.30] isn't -[4334.30 --> 4334.68] God -[4334.68 --> 4334.96] if it -[4334.96 --> 4335.16] isn't -[4335.16 --> 4335.28] the -[4335.28 --> 4335.46] one -[4335.46 --> 4335.66] true -[4335.66 --> 4335.94] God -[4335.94 --> 4336.16] it -[4336.16 --> 4336.44] will -[4336.44 --> 4336.84] be -[4336.84 --> 4337.60] something -[4337.60 --> 4338.64] and -[4338.64 --> 4338.84] what -[4338.84 --> 4339.06] you -[4339.06 --> 4339.66] that -[4339.66 --> 4340.04] thing -[4340.04 --> 4340.44] is -[4340.44 --> 4340.62] what -[4340.62 --> 4340.74] you -[4340.74 --> 4341.18] believe -[4341.18 --> 4341.40] in -[4341.40 --> 4341.54] your -[4341.54 --> 4341.84] heart -[4341.84 --> 4342.02] of -[4342.02 --> 4342.44] hearts -[4342.44 --> 4342.96] that -[4342.96 --> 4343.78] if you -[4343.78 --> 4344.06] had -[4344.06 --> 4344.18] it -[4344.18 --> 4344.34] would -[4344.34 --> 4344.64] make -[4344.64 --> 4344.84] you -[4344.84 --> 4345.46] happy -[4345.46 --> 4345.68] would -[4345.68 --> 4346.12] fill -[4346.12 --> 4346.40] you -[4346.40 --> 4347.00] finally -[4347.00 --> 4347.24] would -[4347.24 --> 4347.42] give -[4347.42 --> 4347.54] you -[4347.54 --> 4347.70] that -[4347.70 --> 4348.00] sense -[4348.00 --> 4348.16] of -[4348.16 --> 4348.80] home -[4348.80 --> 4349.32] right -[4349.32 --> 4349.78] is -[4349.78 --> 4350.16] that -[4350.16 --> 4350.68] thing -[4350.68 --> 4351.16] taking -[4351.16 --> 4351.44] the -[4351.44 --> 4351.90] place -[4351.90 --> 4352.24] of -[4352.24 --> 4352.74] God -[4352.74 --> 4353.00] in -[4353.00 --> 4353.14] your -[4353.14 --> 4353.54] life -[4353.54 --> 4355.00] maybe -[4355.00 --> 4355.22] we -[4355.22 --> 4355.46] don't -[4355.46 --> 4355.76] bow -[4355.76 --> 4356.12] to -[4356.12 --> 4356.82] Hecate -[4356.82 --> 4357.10] the -[4357.10 --> 4357.78] frog -[4357.78 --> 4358.20] queen -[4358.20 --> 4358.48] of -[4358.48 --> 4359.10] fertility -[4359.10 --> 4359.72] but -[4359.72 --> 4360.06] how -[4360.06 --> 4360.46] many -[4360.46 --> 4360.82] of -[4360.82 --> 4361.22] us -[4361.22 --> 4361.60] in -[4361.60 --> 4361.76] our -[4361.76 --> 4362.46] experiences -[4362.46 --> 4362.76] have -[4362.76 --> 4362.94] been -[4362.94 --> 4363.56] crushed -[4363.56 --> 4364.16] by -[4364.16 --> 4364.96] infertility -[4364.96 --> 4365.36] how -[4365.36 --> 4365.62] many -[4365.62 --> 4365.80] of -[4365.80 --> 4365.94] us -[4365.94 --> 4366.12] have -[4366.12 --> 4366.40] lived -[4366.40 --> 4366.54] in -[4366.54 --> 4366.68] a -[4366.68 --> 4367.10] community -[4367.10 --> 4367.38] that -[4367.38 --> 4367.56] has -[4367.56 --> 4368.52] raised -[4368.52 --> 4368.98] the -[4368.98 --> 4369.82] status -[4369.82 --> 4370.20] that -[4370.20 --> 4370.52] comes -[4370.52 --> 4370.80] with -[4370.80 --> 4371.54] having -[4371.54 --> 4371.82] a -[4371.82 --> 4372.16] family -[4372.16 --> 4372.46] as -[4372.46 --> 4373.16] finally -[4373.16 --> 4373.92] accomplishing -[4373.92 --> 4374.38] something -[4374.38 --> 4376.16] how -[4376.16 --> 4376.46] many -[4376.46 --> 4376.80] in -[4376.80 --> 4377.18] our -[4377.18 --> 4377.70] culture -[4377.70 --> 4378.04] and -[4378.04 --> 4378.34] day -[4378.34 --> 4379.28] rebel -[4379.28 --> 4379.78] against -[4379.78 --> 4380.32] aging -[4380.32 --> 4382.10] and so -[4382.10 --> 4382.24] we -[4382.24 --> 4382.52] kill -[4382.52 --> 4383.06] ourselves -[4383.06 --> 4384.04] and we -[4384.04 --> 4384.70] mutilate -[4384.70 --> 4384.94] our -[4384.94 --> 4385.40] bodies -[4385.40 --> 4385.76] in the -[4385.76 --> 4386.18] pursuit -[4386.18 --> 4386.44] to -[4386.44 --> 4387.00] look -[4387.00 --> 4387.40] younger -[4387.40 --> 4387.78] or to -[4387.78 --> 4388.32] hold -[4388.32 --> 4388.58] off -[4388.58 --> 4388.82] getting -[4388.82 --> 4389.22] older -[4389.22 --> 4390.86] how -[4390.86 --> 4391.34] easy -[4391.34 --> 4391.76] is it -[4391.76 --> 4392.10] in our -[4392.10 --> 4392.40] world -[4392.40 --> 4392.66] to -[4392.66 --> 4393.08] simply -[4393.08 --> 4393.46] put -[4393.46 --> 4393.82] on -[4393.82 --> 4394.44] a -[4394.44 --> 4395.00] filter -[4395.00 --> 4395.52] with -[4395.52 --> 4395.66] the -[4395.66 --> 4395.96] pictures -[4395.96 --> 4396.20] you -[4396.20 --> 4396.54] post -[4396.54 --> 4397.06] online -[4397.06 --> 4397.32] that -[4397.32 --> 4398.16] subtly -[4398.16 --> 4398.84] softens -[4398.84 --> 4399.04] your -[4399.04 --> 4399.44] skin -[4399.44 --> 4399.72] and -[4399.72 --> 4400.08] whitens -[4400.08 --> 4400.26] your -[4400.26 --> 4400.60] teeth -[4400.60 --> 4402.80] the -[4402.80 --> 4403.28] names -[4403.28 --> 4403.56] might -[4403.56 --> 4403.76] be -[4403.76 --> 4404.22] different -[4404.22 --> 4404.44] but -[4404.44 --> 4404.64] the -[4404.64 --> 4405.36] pursuits -[4405.36 --> 4405.92] are -[4405.92 --> 4406.10] the -[4406.10 --> 4406.46] same -[4406.46 --> 4406.94] we -[4406.94 --> 4407.18] take -[4407.18 --> 4407.38] the -[4407.38 --> 4407.62] good -[4407.62 --> 4408.04] things -[4408.04 --> 4408.30] of -[4408.30 --> 4408.50] the -[4408.50 --> 4408.78] world -[4408.78 --> 4408.92] and -[4408.92 --> 4409.06] we -[4409.06 --> 4409.48] worship -[4409.48 --> 4409.74] them -[4409.74 --> 4410.06] we -[4410.06 --> 4410.42] elevate -[4410.42 --> 4410.64] them -[4410.64 --> 4410.78] as -[4410.78 --> 4411.12] ultimate -[4411.12 --> 4411.46] things -[4411.46 --> 4411.62] we -[4411.62 --> 4411.84] build -[4411.84 --> 4412.02] our -[4412.02 --> 4412.40] lives -[4412.40 --> 4412.82] around -[4412.82 --> 4413.14] them -[4413.14 --> 4413.62] and -[4413.62 --> 4414.12] these -[4414.12 --> 4414.56] things -[4414.56 --> 4415.14] ultimately -[4415.14 --> 4415.76] cannot -[4415.76 --> 4416.56] sustain -[4416.56 --> 4417.48] life -[4417.48 --> 4417.88] and -[4417.88 --> 4418.02] when -[4418.02 --> 4418.20] they -[4418.20 --> 4418.66] fail -[4418.66 --> 4419.02] us -[4419.02 --> 4419.16] or -[4419.16 --> 4419.30] when -[4419.30 --> 4419.44] they -[4419.44 --> 4419.68] begin -[4419.68 --> 4419.90] to -[4419.90 --> 4420.32] crush -[4420.32 --> 4420.68] us -[4420.68 --> 4421.14] under -[4421.14 --> 4421.36] the -[4421.36 --> 4421.64] weight -[4421.64 --> 4421.90] of -[4421.90 --> 4422.10] our -[4422.10 --> 4422.96] misdirected -[4422.96 --> 4423.52] glory -[4423.52 --> 4423.80] and -[4423.80 --> 4424.20] worship -[4424.20 --> 4424.66] our -[4424.66 --> 4425.14] default -[4425.14 --> 4425.82] response -[4425.82 --> 4426.14] if we're -[4426.14 --> 4426.44] honest -[4426.44 --> 4426.78] isn't -[4426.78 --> 4426.92] to -[4426.92 --> 4427.40] destroy -[4427.40 --> 4427.64] them -[4427.64 --> 4427.90] isn't -[4427.90 --> 4428.06] to -[4428.06 --> 4428.34] cast -[4428.34 --> 4428.56] them -[4428.56 --> 4428.84] off -[4428.84 --> 4429.22] and -[4429.22 --> 4429.38] to -[4429.38 --> 4429.60] run -[4429.60 --> 4429.76] to -[4429.76 --> 4429.88] the -[4429.88 --> 4430.08] one -[4430.08 --> 4430.28] true -[4430.28 --> 4430.70] God -[4430.70 --> 4432.64] it's -[4432.64 --> 4432.80] to -[4432.80 --> 4433.20] find -[4433.20 --> 4433.68] other -[4433.68 --> 4434.32] lesser -[4434.32 --> 4434.92] glories -[4434.92 --> 4435.14] and -[4435.14 --> 4435.56] add -[4435.56 --> 4435.82] them -[4435.82 --> 4436.08] to -[4436.08 --> 4436.30] the -[4436.30 --> 4436.92] pantheon -[4436.92 --> 4437.10] of -[4437.10 --> 4437.24] our -[4437.24 --> 4437.70] practices -[4437.70 --> 4441.36] look -[4441.36 --> 4441.60] at the -[4441.60 --> 4442.22] plagues -[4442.22 --> 4443.60] and don't -[4443.60 --> 4444.10] get left -[4444.10 --> 4444.36] in the -[4444.36 --> 4444.74] dark -[4444.74 --> 4446.54] or in -[4446.54 --> 4446.64] the -[4446.64 --> 4447.00] darkness -[4447.00 --> 4447.26] of -[4447.26 --> 4447.90] unregenerate -[4447.90 --> 4448.76] hearts -[4448.76 --> 4450.16] come -[4450.16 --> 4451.10] to the -[4451.10 --> 4451.50] light -[4451.50 --> 4452.36] of the -[4452.36 --> 4452.80] world -[4452.80 --> 4453.34] come -[4453.34 --> 4454.06] to -[4454.06 --> 4454.52] Jesus -[4454.52 --> 4454.90] and -[4454.90 --> 4455.56] finally -[4455.56 --> 4456.18] see -[4456.18 --> 4456.48] the -[4456.48 --> 4456.96] world -[4456.96 --> 4457.66] as -[4457.66 --> 4457.86] it -[4457.86 --> 4458.54] really -[4458.54 --> 4459.48] is -[4459.48 --> 4461.68] finally -[4461.68 --> 4463.32] lastly -[4463.32 --> 4464.72] the -[4464.72 --> 4465.18] impact -[4465.18 --> 4465.44] of -[4465.44 --> 4465.76] this -[4465.76 --> 4466.70] story -[4466.70 --> 4467.74] makes -[4467.74 --> 4468.10] the -[4468.10 --> 4468.58] gospel -[4468.58 --> 4469.70] much -[4469.70 --> 4470.32] bigger -[4470.32 --> 4470.88] in -[4470.88 --> 4471.10] our -[4471.10 --> 4471.60] minds -[4471.60 --> 4472.02] and -[4472.02 --> 4472.16] in -[4472.16 --> 4472.34] our -[4472.34 --> 4473.10] imaginations -[4473.10 --> 4474.24] right -[4474.24 --> 4474.68] Jesus -[4474.68 --> 4475.30] entered -[4475.30 --> 4475.72] into -[4475.72 --> 4476.34] creation -[4476.34 --> 4476.96] not -[4476.96 --> 4477.30] just -[4477.30 --> 4477.58] to -[4477.58 --> 4478.12] save -[4478.12 --> 4478.38] a -[4478.38 --> 4478.78] people -[4478.78 --> 4480.20] but -[4480.20 --> 4480.40] to -[4480.40 --> 4480.88] redeem -[4480.88 --> 4481.58] and -[4481.58 --> 4482.34] restore -[4482.34 --> 4482.68] the -[4482.68 --> 4483.28] whole -[4483.28 --> 4483.80] of -[4483.80 --> 4484.38] creation -[4484.38 --> 4486.04] all -[4486.04 --> 4486.68] creation -[4486.68 --> 4487.16] groans -[4487.16 --> 4487.50] under -[4487.50 --> 4487.70] the -[4487.70 --> 4487.94] weight -[4487.94 --> 4488.24] of -[4488.24 --> 4488.56] sin -[4488.56 --> 4489.06] and -[4489.06 --> 4489.64] all -[4489.64 --> 4490.22] creation -[4490.22 --> 4490.88] is -[4490.88 --> 4491.02] to -[4491.02 --> 4491.18] be -[4491.18 --> 4491.82] redeemed -[4491.82 --> 4492.48] by -[4492.48 --> 4492.84] Jesus -[4492.84 --> 4493.32] Christ -[4493.32 --> 4493.98] Christ -[4493.98 --> 4494.40] comes -[4494.40 --> 4494.68] to -[4494.68 --> 4495.16] redeem -[4495.16 --> 4495.64] the -[4495.64 --> 4496.20] entire -[4496.20 --> 4496.78] cosmos -[4496.78 --> 4497.38] for -[4497.38 --> 4497.62] God -[4497.62 --> 4497.92] so -[4497.92 --> 4498.42] loved -[4498.42 --> 4498.70] the -[4498.70 --> 4499.02] world -[4499.02 --> 4499.26] the -[4499.26 --> 4499.78] entire -[4499.78 --> 4500.52] world -[4500.52 --> 4500.74] the -[4500.74 --> 4501.08] whole -[4501.08 --> 4501.28] of -[4501.28 --> 4501.70] creation -[4501.70 --> 4501.94] that -[4501.94 --> 4502.08] he -[4502.08 --> 4502.42] sent -[4502.42 --> 4503.10] his -[4503.10 --> 4503.82] son -[4503.82 --> 4504.34] the -[4504.34 --> 4504.70] coming -[4504.70 --> 4505.04] of -[4505.04 --> 4505.64] Christ -[4505.64 --> 4506.72] recreates -[4506.72 --> 4507.20] a new -[4507.20 --> 4507.88] humanity -[4507.88 --> 4508.36] yes -[4508.36 --> 4508.88] and -[4508.88 --> 4509.32] amen -[4509.32 --> 4509.94] and -[4509.94 --> 4510.20] this -[4510.20 --> 4510.54] act -[4510.54 --> 4510.86] just -[4510.86 --> 4511.12] like -[4511.12 --> 4511.32] the -[4511.32 --> 4511.64] plagues -[4511.64 --> 4512.04] before -[4512.04 --> 4512.46] has -[4512.46 --> 4512.70] the -[4512.70 --> 4513.26] widest -[4513.26 --> 4514.00] possible -[4514.00 --> 4514.94] implications -[4514.94 --> 4515.98] right -[4515.98 --> 4516.32] Jesus -[4516.32 --> 4516.86] comes -[4516.86 --> 4517.18] to -[4517.18 --> 4517.70] usher -[4517.70 --> 4518.56] in a -[4518.56 --> 4518.98] new -[4518.98 --> 4519.66] world -[4519.66 --> 4520.20] a world -[4520.20 --> 4520.96] called -[4520.96 --> 4521.24] the -[4521.24 --> 4521.68] kingdom -[4521.68 --> 4522.38] of -[4522.38 --> 4522.86] God -[4522.86 --> 4523.14] and -[4523.14 --> 4523.64] with -[4523.64 --> 4524.06] that -[4524.06 --> 4524.38] a -[4524.38 --> 4524.78] renewed -[4524.78 --> 4525.48] order -[4525.48 --> 4525.92] of -[4525.92 --> 4526.36] things -[4526.36 --> 4526.54] that -[4526.54 --> 4526.68] we -[4526.68 --> 4527.34] already -[4527.34 --> 4527.72] get to -[4527.72 --> 4528.02] see -[4528.02 --> 4528.50] and live -[4528.50 --> 4528.68] and -[4528.68 --> 4529.08] participate -[4529.08 --> 4529.40] in -[4529.40 --> 4529.94] and -[4529.94 --> 4530.60] eventually -[4530.60 --> 4531.18] not just -[4531.18 --> 4531.60] a renewed -[4531.60 --> 4532.00] order -[4532.00 --> 4532.40] but an -[4532.40 --> 4532.96] entirely -[4532.96 --> 4533.70] renewed -[4533.70 --> 4534.48] world -[4534.48 --> 4535.00] right -[4535.00 --> 4535.50] the gospel -[4535.50 --> 4536.24] isn't just -[4536.24 --> 4536.72] that you -[4536.72 --> 4537.38] are saved -[4537.38 --> 4539.68] the gospel -[4539.68 --> 4540.06] is that -[4540.06 --> 4540.38] the whole -[4540.38 --> 4540.76] world -[4540.76 --> 4541.82] is redeemed -[4541.82 --> 4542.30] by -[4542.30 --> 4542.76] Jesus -[4542.76 --> 4543.92] creation -[4543.92 --> 4544.64] currently -[4544.64 --> 4545.28] groaning -[4545.28 --> 4545.80] under -[4545.80 --> 4546.02] the -[4546.02 --> 4546.26] weight -[4546.26 --> 4546.44] of -[4546.44 --> 4546.70] sin -[4546.70 --> 4546.98] is -[4546.98 --> 4547.44] re -[4547.44 --> 4548.14] ordered -[4548.14 --> 4548.82] in -[4548.82 --> 4549.60] renewal -[4549.60 --> 4552.62] that's -[4552.62 --> 4552.90] what the -[4552.90 --> 4553.26] plagues -[4553.26 --> 4554.82] teach us -[4554.82 --> 4556.22] and it's -[4556.22 --> 4556.84] nothing short -[4556.84 --> 4557.62] of the -[4557.62 --> 4558.08] fullest -[4558.08 --> 4558.80] scope -[4558.80 --> 4559.44] of -[4559.44 --> 4559.86] redemption -[4559.86 --> 4562.16] and so -[4562.16 --> 4562.44] now -[4562.44 --> 4562.84] with -[4562.84 --> 4563.30] all -[4563.30 --> 4563.54] of -[4563.54 --> 4563.88] that -[4563.88 --> 4565.24] tell -[4565.24 --> 4565.44] your -[4565.44 --> 4565.84] children -[4565.84 --> 4567.00] tell -[4567.00 --> 4567.20] your -[4567.20 --> 4567.82] grandchildren -[4567.82 --> 4568.40] tell -[4568.40 --> 4568.60] your -[4568.60 --> 4568.96] neighbors -[4568.96 --> 4569.26] tell -[4569.26 --> 4569.44] your -[4569.44 --> 4569.92] friends -[4569.92 --> 4571.60] proclaim -[4571.60 --> 4572.40] the name -[4572.40 --> 4572.64] of -[4572.64 --> 4572.94] Jesus -[4572.94 --> 4573.24] in -[4573.24 --> 4573.52] all -[4573.52 --> 4573.70] the -[4573.70 --> 4573.94] earth -[4573.94 --> 4574.74] and know -[4574.74 --> 4575.08] that -[4575.08 --> 4575.46] he -[4575.46 --> 4576.24] is -[4576.24 --> 4576.96] Lord -[4576.96 --> 4577.22] to -[4577.22 --> 4577.38] the -[4577.38 --> 4577.78] glory -[4577.78 --> 4578.46] of -[4578.46 --> 4578.84] God -[4578.84 --> 4579.40] the -[4579.40 --> 4579.78] father -[4579.78 --> 4581.58] hear -[4581.58 --> 4582.00] this -[4582.00 --> 4582.82] story -[4582.82 --> 4583.82] and sing -[4583.82 --> 4584.68] behold -[4584.68 --> 4585.92] our -[4585.92 --> 4587.38] God -[4587.38 --> 4588.88] let me -[4588.88 --> 4589.16] pray -[4589.16 --> 4595.04] holy -[4595.04 --> 4595.96] holy -[4595.96 --> 4596.36] God -[4596.36 --> 4596.78] open -[4596.78 --> 4597.44] the eyes -[4597.44 --> 4597.86] of our -[4597.86 --> 4598.34] hearts -[4598.34 --> 4599.14] open -[4599.14 --> 4599.54] the -[4599.54 --> 4600.64] capacities -[4600.64 --> 4601.68] of our -[4601.68 --> 4602.56] imaginations -[4602.56 --> 4603.32] to see -[4603.32 --> 4603.74] you -[4603.74 --> 4604.28] more -[4604.28 --> 4604.86] clearly -[4604.86 --> 4605.10] to -[4605.10 --> 4605.84] experience -[4605.84 --> 4606.40] you -[4606.40 --> 4606.88] more -[4606.88 --> 4607.52] deeply -[4607.52 --> 4607.88] and -[4607.88 --> 4608.28] truly -[4608.28 --> 4608.66] in -[4608.66 --> 4609.02] this -[4609.02 --> 4609.46] place -[4609.46 --> 4609.94] today -[4609.94 --> 4610.48] may -[4610.48 --> 4610.66] we -[4610.66 --> 4611.00] look -[4611.00 --> 4611.34] out -[4611.34 --> 4611.76] into -[4611.76 --> 4612.16] this -[4612.16 --> 4612.54] world -[4612.54 --> 4612.84] and -[4612.84 --> 4613.20] know -[4613.20 --> 4613.46] that -[4613.46 --> 4613.72] you -[4613.72 --> 4613.98] are -[4613.98 --> 4614.24] at -[4614.24 --> 4614.58] work -[4614.58 --> 4615.34] here -[4615.34 --> 4615.64] and -[4615.64 --> 4615.98] now -[4615.98 --> 4616.36] because -[4616.36 --> 4616.98] we -[4616.98 --> 4617.22] can -[4617.22 --> 4617.76] see -[4617.76 --> 4618.34] you -[4618.34 --> 4618.72] having -[4618.72 --> 4619.16] worked -[4619.16 --> 4619.66] in -[4619.66 --> 4619.78] the -[4619.78 --> 4620.18] past -[4620.18 --> 4620.40] may -[4620.40 --> 4620.58] we -[4620.58 --> 4620.86] look -[4620.86 --> 4621.08] out -[4621.08 --> 4621.40] into -[4621.40 --> 4621.68] this -[4621.68 --> 4621.98] world -[4621.98 --> 4622.24] and -[4622.24 --> 4622.62] see -[4622.62 --> 4622.92] how -[4622.92 --> 4623.20] you -[4623.20 --> 4623.44] are -[4623.44 --> 4624.64] reordering -[4624.64 --> 4624.84] in -[4624.84 --> 4624.98] the -[4624.98 --> 4625.28] moving -[4625.28 --> 4625.50] and -[4625.50 --> 4625.86] revealing -[4625.86 --> 4626.16] of -[4626.16 --> 4626.32] your -[4626.32 --> 4626.60] kingdom -[4626.60 --> 4627.00] come -[4627.00 --> 4627.22] and -[4627.22 --> 4627.42] your -[4627.42 --> 4627.78] kingdom -[4627.78 --> 4628.70] coming -[4628.70 --> 4629.44] and send -[4629.44 --> 4629.72] us -[4629.72 --> 4630.08] out -[4630.08 --> 4630.66] now -[4630.66 --> 4631.18] to -[4631.18 --> 4631.64] worship -[4631.64 --> 4632.30] and -[4632.30 --> 4632.90] praise -[4632.90 --> 4633.56] you -[4633.56 --> 4634.46] send -[4634.46 --> 4634.70] us -[4634.70 --> 4634.94] out -[4634.94 --> 4635.24] now -[4635.24 --> 4635.44] that -[4635.44 --> 4635.62] we -[4635.62 --> 4635.92] might -[4635.92 --> 4637.26] declare -[4637.26 --> 4637.78] your -[4637.78 --> 4638.38] kingdom -[4638.38 --> 4638.78] with -[4638.78 --> 4639.14] our -[4639.14 --> 4639.74] lives -[4639.74 --> 4640.08] and -[4640.08 --> 4640.34] with -[4640.34 --> 4640.66] our -[4640.66 --> 4641.42] words -[4641.42 --> 4641.86] send -[4641.86 --> 4642.20] us -[4642.20 --> 4642.64] out -[4642.64 --> 4644.14] that -[4644.14 --> 4644.32] we -[4644.32 --> 4644.64] might -[4644.64 --> 4645.24] worship -[4645.24 --> 4646.12] you -[4646.12 --> 4647.02] in -[4647.02 --> 4647.16] the -[4647.16 --> 4647.92] power -[4647.92 --> 4648.64] of -[4648.64 --> 4648.92] who -[4648.92 --> 4649.16] you -[4649.16 --> 4649.50] are -[4649.50 --> 4650.10] and -[4650.10 --> 4650.46] what -[4650.46 --> 4651.22] you -[4651.22 --> 4652.14] are -[4652.14 --> 4653.06] doing -[4653.06 --> 4655.42] reorder -[4655.42 --> 4655.88] our -[4655.88 --> 4656.70] affections -[4656.70 --> 4656.96] Lord -[4656.96 --> 4657.34] Jesus -[4657.34 --> 4657.68] that -[4657.68 --> 4657.86] we -[4657.86 --> 4658.20] might -[4658.20 --> 4658.58] love -[4658.58 --> 4659.04] you -[4659.04 --> 4659.92] and -[4659.92 --> 4660.32] you -[4660.32 --> 4661.64] alone -[4661.64 --> 4662.54] as -[4662.54 --> 4662.96] God -[4662.96 --> 4664.26] in -[4664.26 --> 4664.64] his -[4664.64 --> 4665.02] name -[4665.02 --> 4665.28] we -[4665.28 --> 4665.64] pray -[4665.64 --> 4667.18] amen -[4687.34 --> 4696.68] who -[4696.68 --> 4697.48] has -[4697.48 --> 4698.26] held -[4698.26 --> 4698.74] the -[4698.74 --> 4699.70] oceans -[4699.70 --> 4700.16] in -[4700.16 --> 4700.46] his -[4700.46 --> 4701.50] hands -[4701.50 --> 4702.32] who -[4702.32 --> 4703.18] has -[4703.18 --> 4704.04] numbered -[4704.04 --> 4705.22] every -[4705.22 --> 4705.74] grain -[4705.74 --> 4706.04] of -[4706.04 --> 4707.00] sand -[4707.00 --> 4708.14] kings -[4708.14 --> 4708.88] and -[4708.88 --> 4709.96] nations -[4709.96 --> 4710.90] tremble -[4710.90 --> 4711.32] at -[4711.32 --> 4711.68] his -[4711.68 --> 4712.64] voice -[4712.64 --> 4713.74] all -[4713.74 --> 4715.18] creation -[4715.18 --> 4716.34] rises -[4716.34 --> 4716.88] to -[4716.88 --> 4718.18] rejoice -[4718.18 --> 4720.52] behold -[4720.52 --> 4723.02] our -[4723.02 --> 4724.14] God -[4724.14 --> 4725.04] seated -[4725.04 --> 4725.70] on -[4725.70 --> 4726.02] his -[4726.02 --> 4727.10] throne -[4727.10 --> 4727.84] come -[4727.84 --> 4728.62] let us -[4728.62 --> 4729.64] adore -[4729.64 --> 4731.24] him -[4731.24 --> 4732.52] behold -[4732.52 --> 4734.60] our -[4734.60 --> 4735.64] king -[4735.64 --> 4736.52] nothing -[4736.52 --> 4737.10] can -[4737.10 --> 4738.52] compare -[4738.52 --> 4739.34] come -[4739.34 --> 4740.18] let us -[4740.18 --> 4741.88] adore -[4741.88 --> 4743.54] him -[4743.54 --> 4755.04] who -[4755.04 --> 4755.78] has -[4755.78 --> 4756.62] given -[4756.62 --> 4757.72] counsel -[4757.72 --> 4758.22] to -[4758.22 --> 4758.66] the -[4758.66 --> 4759.70] Lord -[4759.70 --> 4760.44] who -[4760.44 --> 4761.32] can -[4761.32 --> 4762.22] question -[4762.22 --> 4763.52] any -[4763.52 --> 4764.00] of -[4764.00 --> 4764.28] his -[4764.28 --> 4765.22] words -[4765.22 --> 4766.22] who -[4766.22 --> 4767.04] can -[4767.04 --> 4767.80] teach -[4767.80 --> 4768.50] the -[4768.50 --> 4768.96] one -[4768.96 --> 4769.26] who -[4769.26 --> 4769.68] knows -[4769.68 --> 4770.02] all -[4770.02 --> 4770.88] things -[4770.88 --> 4771.74] who -[4771.74 --> 4772.70] can -[4772.70 --> 4773.58] fashion -[4773.58 --> 4774.48] all -[4774.48 --> 4774.82] his -[4774.82 --> 4775.52] wondrous -[4775.52 --> 4777.02] feet -[4777.02 --> 4778.52] the -[4778.52 --> 4779.84] old -[4779.84 --> 4781.34] our -[4781.34 --> 4782.48] God -[4782.48 --> 4783.34] seated -[4783.34 --> 4783.96] on -[4783.96 --> 4784.28] his -[4784.28 --> 4785.38] throne -[4785.38 --> 4786.10] come -[4786.10 --> 4786.90] let us -[4786.90 --> 4787.84] adore -[4787.84 --> 4789.44] him -[4789.44 --> 4790.02] the -[4790.02 --> 4791.40] old -[4791.40 --> 4792.84] our -[4792.84 --> 4793.90] king -[4793.90 --> 4794.84] nothing -[4794.84 --> 4795.38] can -[4795.38 --> 4796.74] compare -[4796.74 --> 4797.52] come -[4797.52 --> 4798.34] let us -[4798.34 --> 4799.34] adore -[4799.34 --> 4800.70] the -[4800.70 --> 4801.04] door -[4801.04 --> 4801.44] for -[4801.44 --> 4803.18] him -[4803.18 --> 4813.04] who -[4813.04 --> 4813.78] has -[4813.78 --> 4814.48] felt -[4814.48 --> 4815.18] the -[4815.18 --> 4815.70] nails -[4815.70 --> 4816.30] upon -[4816.30 --> 4816.68] his -[4816.68 --> 4817.62] hands -[4817.62 --> 4818.82] bearing -[4818.82 --> 4820.76] all the -[4820.76 --> 4821.18] guilt -[4821.18 --> 4821.50] of -[4821.50 --> 4821.98] sinful -[4821.98 --> 4823.04] men -[4823.04 --> 4824.46] God -[4824.46 --> 4825.80] eternal -[4825.80 --> 4826.96] humbled -[4826.96 --> 4827.50] to -[4827.50 --> 4827.86] the -[4827.86 --> 4828.80] grave -[4828.80 --> 4830.06] Jesus -[4830.06 --> 4831.52] Savior -[4831.52 --> 4832.62] risen -[4832.62 --> 4833.16] now -[4833.16 --> 4833.50] to -[4833.50 --> 4834.96] reign -[4834.96 --> 4837.16] behold -[4837.16 --> 4839.30] our -[4839.30 --> 4840.34] arm -[4840.34 --> 4841.24] seated -[4841.24 --> 4841.88] on -[4841.88 --> 4842.16] his -[4842.16 --> 4843.26] throne -[4843.26 --> 4844.04] come -[4844.04 --> 4844.86] let us -[4844.86 --> 4845.80] adore -[4845.80 --> 4847.30] him -[4847.30 --> 4848.30] behold -[4848.30 --> 4849.72] the -[4849.72 --> 4851.62] king -[4851.62 --> 4852.66] nothing -[4852.66 --> 4853.24] can't -[4853.24 --> 4853.96] bear -[4853.96 --> 4855.30] come -[4855.30 --> 4858.26] that -[4858.26 --> 4860.04] after -[4861.12 --> 4862.66] he -[4862.66 --> 4863.72] moved -[4863.96 --> 4865.30] in -[4865.30 --> 4865.46] the -[4865.46 --> 4865.56] power -[4865.56 --> 4866.40] for -[4866.46 --> 4868.36] they -[4868.36 --> 4869.52] will -[4869.52 --> 4870.54] sometimes -[4870.54 --> 4870.66] years -[4870.66 --> 4883.60] be -[4883.60 --> 4897.60] you will reign -[4897.60 --> 4911.60] you will reign -[4913.60 --> 4919.60] come let us adore him -[4919.60 --> 4925.60] behold the king -[4925.60 --> 4929.60] nothing can compare -[4929.60 --> 4935.60] come let us adore him -[4943.60 --> 4947.60] behold -[4947.60 --> 4953.60] behold our god and go knowing that you are held by him -[4953.60 --> 4955.60] go in the power of his name -[4955.60 --> 4957.60] in the full purpose of God -[4957.60 --> 4959.60] at work in the world be -[4959.60 --> 4961.60] those who reveal his kingdom come -[4961.60 --> 4963.60] and kingdom coming -[4963.60 --> 4965.60] receive his blessing -[4965.60 --> 4967.60] may God -[4967.60 --> 4969.60] go before you -[4969.60 --> 4971.60] to guide you may God go -[4971.60 --> 4973.60] behind you to protect you may -[4973.60 --> 4979.60] may God go beneath you to support you may God go beside you to befriend you -[4979.60 --> 4981.60] do not be afraid -[4981.60 --> 4983.60] let the blessing of God come upon you today -[4983.60 --> 4985.60] do not be afraid -[4985.60 --> 4987.60] go in peace -[4987.60 --> 4989.60] to love and serve -[4989.60 --> 4991.60] the Lord -[4991.60 --> 4993.60] amen -[4993.60 --> 5003.60] there's a place -[5003.60 --> 5005.60] where the streets shine -[5005.60 --> 5007.60] with the glory -[5007.60 --> 5009.60] of the Lamb -[5009.60 --> 5011.60] there's a way -[5011.60 --> 5013.60] we can go there -[5013.60 --> 5015.60] we can live there -[5015.60 --> 5017.60] we can live there -[5017.60 --> 5019.60] we all die -[5019.60 --> 5025.60] because of you -[5025.60 --> 5029.60] because of you -[5029.60 --> 5031.60] because of your love -[5031.60 --> 5033.60] because of your blood -[5033.60 --> 5035.60] no more pain -[5035.60 --> 5037.60] no more sadness -[5037.60 --> 5039.60] no more suffering -[5039.60 --> 5041.60] no more tears -[5041.60 --> 5043.60] no more tears -[5043.60 --> 5045.60] no more sickness -[5045.60 --> 5047.60] no injustice -[5047.60 --> 5051.64] Because of you -[5051.64 --> 5055.28] Because of you -[5055.28 --> 5060.16] Because of your love -[5060.16 --> 5064.12] Because of your love -[5064.12 --> 5067.98] All our sins are washed away -[5067.98 --> 5072.06] And we can't live forever -[5072.06 --> 5075.64] Now we have this hope -[5075.64 --> 5078.64] because of you -[5078.64 --> 5083.64] oh we'll see you face the pain -[5083.64 --> 5087.64] and we will dance together -[5087.64 --> 5093.64] in the city of our God because of you -[5093.64 --> 5098.64] there is joy everlasting -[5098.64 --> 5101.64] there is gladness there is peace -[5101.64 --> 5105.64] there is wine heaven's glory -[5105.64 --> 5109.64] there's a wedding there's a peace -[5109.64 --> 5112.64] because of you -[5112.64 --> 5116.64] because of you -[5116.64 --> 5120.64] because of your love -[5120.64 --> 5123.64] because of your love -[5123.64 --> 5128.64] oh all our sins are washed away -[5128.64 --> 5132.64] and we can live forever -[5132.64 --> 5138.64] now we have this hope because of you -[5138.64 --> 5143.64] oh we'll see you face to face -[5143.64 --> 5147.64] and we will dance together -[5147.64 --> 5153.64] in the city of our God because of you -[5153.64 --> 5158.64] oh we'll see you face to face -[5158.64 --> 5162.64] and we will dance together -[5162.64 --> 5168.64] in the city of our God because of you -[5168.64 --> 5173.64] in the city of our God -[5173.64 --> 5176.64] inf Kill it -[5176.64 --> 5177.64] it's all that war -[5177.64 --> 5178.66] because of you -[5178.66 --> 5179.64] and our fasting -[5179.64 --> 5181.52] in the city of our God -[5181.52 --> 5181.64] in our city of God -[5181.64 --> 5182.40] the Holy Spirit -[5182.40 --> 5184.04] here is to worship -[5184.64 --> 5185.38] helplessly -[5185.38 --> 5187.38] without the sacrifice -[5187.38 --> 5188.64] in the presence palette -[5188.64 --> 5189.24] to worship -[5189.64 --> 5190.64] Ty holy -[5190.64 --> 5190.68] the cigar -[5190.68 --> 5192.64] Channing -[5192.64 --> 5193.64] says -[5193.64 --> 5194.64] Yay -[5194.64 --> 5195.64] Say -[5195.64 --> 5196.64] Tory -[5198.64 --> 5228.62] Thank you. -[5228.64 --> 5258.62] Thank you. -[5258.64 --> 5288.62] Thank you. -[5288.64 --> 5318.62] Thank you. -[5318.64 --> 5348.62] Thank you. -[5348.64 --> 5378.62] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - January 8, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - January 8, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2ed5d0a1652079d99cc52deb5367742655288ae9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - January 8, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,99 +0,0 @@ -• Upcoming events at Emanuel Church -• Housekeeping announcements (youth program and abuse prevention training) -• Worship service led by Chris and other pastors -• Celebrating new baby Gus with Daniel and Ismay Howling -• Meal train for new and growing families -• Various ministry opportunities (GEMS, women's ministry) -• Worship and welcome -• Acknowledgment of God's presence -• Opening greeting with "Grace, mercy, and peace to you" -• Invitation to come to the water for spiritual refreshment -• Assurance of God's Spirit pouring out on all who thirst -• Prolonged repetition of "I love you" by the speaker -• Recognition of God's holiness -• Prayer of confession: gratitude, recognition of sin, and request for forgiveness -• Acknowledgment of God's kindness and sacrifice on the cross -• Guitar solos and instrumental sections -• Worship song "What You Pray to Seek and Save the Most" -• Lyrics referencing God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit -• Belief statements such as "I believe in God our Father" and "I believe in the resurrection" -• Sermon or talk by Yap, a deacon at Langley Emanuel -• Information about North American Indigenous Ministries and their mission -• Bible verse from Mark 16:15 -• Worship song or hymn with lyrics referencing heaven, love, forgiveness, and death -• Resurrection and standing before God -• Celebrating Jesus' birthday and the promise of a better life beyond death -• Comparing anticipation for holidays/events to waiting for Christmas/own birthdays -• Discussing how expectations can sometimes exceed actual experience -• Introducing a new section about Jesus' life and his fulfilled promises -• Update on office staff: Sylvia's departure and Marilyn's transition into new position -• Financial report: Thanks to congregation for contributions, despite being short 8% of budget -• Job opening: Communications Assistant position available, with link on website -• Prayer requests: - + Benita Smid undergoing biopsy for bladder tumor - + Dave Harris' wife Leanne's father has advanced stage cancer - + Henry Heinen passed away - + Birth of new baby to Howling family -• General thanks and prayer: For parents facing challenges with their children, and gratitude for country, church community, and staff -• Prayer for the Heinen family and their loss -• Requests for healing for those physically suffering at Emmanuel -• Prayers for those experiencing loneliness, mental health challenges, depression, and other unseen struggles -• Blessings for parents and caregivers to navigate child-rearing with wisdom and patience -• Seeking guidance and support in raising children in a complex world -• Discussion about reading the Bible, specifically Romans -• Mention of various books and series (Ecclesiastes, Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, Dogman) -• The host's favorite book in the Bible is revealed to be Romans, but with some qualifications -• A personal anecdote about a conversation with his mother-in-law about being a "James kind of Christian" versus a "Romans" kind of Christian -• Discussion about the challenges and value of studying doctrine in the Bible. -• Paul is writing a letter to the church in Rome around AD 57, during his third missionary journey -• The spiritual gift that will make the church strong is the gospel of God -• Paul identifies himself as a "bond servant" or slave of Jesus Christ, emphasizing his commitment and authority to serve God's message -• Paul wants to give the Christians in Rome a gift that will make them strong, which is the gospel of God -• The title "bond servant" is significant because it implies that Paul gives himself completely to serving Jesus Christ -• The importance of the gospel as the truth about Jesus Christ that makes one strong -• Misconceptions about the role of the gospel in Christianity (e.g., it's just a way to get saved, and then you move on) -• Paul's emphasis on the gospel being what makes one strong, not just a means of getting saved -• The connection between faith and obedience, and how faith is not just feeling or conviction but living out the gospel -• The doctrine of depravity (hamartiology) and how it relates to the gospel as the fuel of faith -• The distinction between being righteous (doing good) and doing good apart from faith -• The gospel is a declaration and announcement of God's victory -• The gospel is not advice or a list of rules, but news of God's Son -• The gospel is good news from God about his Son, not something humans can redefine -• The gospel is about Jesus' life, death, resurrection, and exaltation as God's Son -• The gospel is not about human hopes or dreams, but about God's Son and His work -• The gospel transforms lives by declaring who God's Son is and what He has done -• The importance of understanding the gospel in one's life -• Struggling with obedience or disobedience vs. receiving God's grace -• Lack of control in life and how the gospel applies to it -• The role of community in encouraging faith and perseverance -• Dangers of cultural trends that may lead to persecution of Christians -• The significance of gathering together for worship and communion -• The Eucharist is a sacred meal where God's gift of Jesus Christ is received in spiritual presence. -• The church family gathers to receive God himself through Jesus Christ, acknowledging that it is Jesus' church and he who is received at the table. -• The sacrament is a tangible expression of the gospel, allowing participants to see its goodness. -• Prayer is available for those seeking it before or instead of approaching the table. -• The Lord's Supper is a memorial of Jesus' sacrifice, a way to proclaim his death until he returns. -• All who love and trust in Jesus are invited to come to the table, regardless of faith levels or past participation. -• The depth of God's love for humanity -• Christ's sacrifice as the Son of God -• Human sin and guilt -• Redemption through Jesus' death and resurrection -• Understanding that we cannot repay God's love or sacrifice -• Acknowledgment of our own mortality and dependence on God -• Jesus' sacrifice and love -• Worship and praise of God -• Salvation and forgiveness through Christ -• Gratitude for being saved -• Praise to God's greatness and power -• Gratitude for salvation -• Prayers and thanksgiving -• Hospital scenes and conversation -• Reflections on the cross of Christ -• Hymn singing about the wondrous cross -• Sermon and gospel message -• Fellowship invitation after service -• Blessing from God at the end -• God's love and justice will continue forever -• Praise and worship to God, including repeating the phrase "sing praise" -• God is with us, strong, and faithful forever -• Expressions of devotion and commitment to God, including repetition of "forever" and various phrases \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - January 8, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - January 8, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 9220947ce0a5ee7aaa1324368e13ce1274da1953..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - January 8, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1259 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 12.58] I keep minding, you keep giving, keep providing, I have all that I need, you are all that I need. -[13.90 --> 24.86] I keep praying, you keep moving, I keep praying, you keep proving, I have all that I need, -[24.86 --> 35.98] you are all that I need, I have all that I need, you are all that I need. -[38.56 --> 46.52] There's honey in the rock, water in the stone, man on the ground, no matter where I go, -[46.52 --> 54.24] I don't need to worry now that I know, I know everything I need, you got. -[54.62 --> 62.16] There's honey in the rock, purpose in your plan, power in the world, healing in your hands, -[62.42 --> 69.66] it started flowing when you said it is done, Jesus, Jesus, who you are is enough. -[69.66 --> 76.08] There's honey in the rock, there's honey in the rock. -[76.52 --> 84.34] There's honey in the rock, there's honey in the rock. -[86.62 --> 94.06] Oh, how sweet, how sweet it is to trust in you, Jesus. -[94.06 --> 101.86] Oh, how sweet, how sweet it is to trust in you, Jesus. -[101.86 --> 109.72] Oh, how sweet, how sweet it is to trust in you, Jesus. -[109.72 --> 125.38] Oh, how sweet it is to trust in you, Jesus. -[125.38 --> 129.98] Oh, how sweet it is to trust in you, Jesus. -[129.98 --> 159.96] Thank you. -[159.98 --> 189.96] Thank you. -[189.98 --> 191.98] Thank you. -[219.98 --> 221.98] Thank you. -[249.98 --> 251.98] Thank you. -[279.98 --> 281.98] Thank you. -[309.98 --> 311.98] Thank you. -[311.98 --> 313.98] Thank you. -[313.98 --> 315.98] Thank you. -[343.98 --> 345.98] Thank you. -[345.98 --> 347.98] Thank you. -[347.98 --> 349.98] Thank you. -[349.98 --> 351.98] Thank you. -[351.98 --> 369.72] my eyes in wonder and show me who you are and fill me with your heart and lead me in your love to those around me. -[370.72 --> 374.14] I will build my life upon you. -[376.54 --> 378.20] Good morning. -[378.20 --> 378.46] Good morning. -[380.36 --> 382.12] Like three of you answered me there. -[382.20 --> 382.74] Let's try that again. -[382.78 --> 383.16] Good morning. -[384.14 --> 385.10] Thank you. -[385.64 --> 387.58] I appreciate the same three being just louder. -[387.94 --> 388.36] That's great. -[389.08 --> 390.92] Welcome to worship. -[391.14 --> 391.78] My name is Chris. -[391.96 --> 402.76] I'm one of the pastors here at Emanuel Church, and it's my pleasure, along with these others and a few more yet, to lead in our shared worship this morning. -[402.76 --> 409.84] Before we are greeted by God and called into his presence, we have a couple housekeeping announcements to make. -[410.10 --> 419.46] And so, first, if you are part of the youth program, there is youth coffee after worship this morning. -[420.22 --> 423.66] And that's going to take place at Richard and Anna Maria's house. -[424.18 --> 425.42] They are here this morning. -[425.54 --> 427.38] Can you guys just wave if people need an address? -[427.48 --> 427.96] They can go. -[428.14 --> 430.76] And then Mike and Kim Prins are also in charge. -[430.76 --> 432.18] Are they here somewhere this morning? -[432.94 --> 433.72] Not currently. -[434.02 --> 437.40] Anyway, if you know who they are, they can also help you figure out where to go. -[437.46 --> 439.08] That's after service today. -[439.88 --> 446.34] As well, on Tuesday, there is an abuse prevention training workshop that will take place. -[446.44 --> 448.56] This is the third time we've offered this training. -[448.66 --> 457.08] This is really for all of our volunteers and especially people who work with vulnerable either youth or adults here at Emanuel. -[457.08 --> 459.30] We need you to participate in this. -[459.42 --> 466.34] And so, please make a plan of coming to that on Tuesday if you haven't yet been to one of those. -[467.16 --> 469.50] It begins at 7 o'clock. -[470.28 --> 471.70] He says hesitantly. -[471.84 --> 473.26] Someone confirm if I'm wrong. -[474.42 --> 476.80] No one is confirming, so I must be right. -[477.90 --> 480.38] Double-check the calendar because all of a sudden I'm doubting myself. -[480.80 --> 481.60] Online calendar. -[481.90 --> 482.80] But that's Tuesday. -[482.80 --> 486.70] Also, Tuesday morning, coffee break is starting back up. -[486.78 --> 489.86] That's a woman's ministry that we run here. -[490.04 --> 498.26] And so, if that's something you are participating in or interested in connecting about, that's starting on Tuesday morning. -[498.52 --> 504.38] And then this week, as we're jumping back into the regularly scheduled programming here on Thursday, -[505.04 --> 506.92] GEMS will happen as well. -[506.92 --> 514.84] And so, that's a girls' ministry for young elementary and middle school-aged girls. -[514.98 --> 519.34] And so, if you're interested in that, that's on Thursday evening. -[520.42 --> 530.78] Also, this morning and this week, we're celebrating with Daniel and Ismay Howling as they have welcomed another baby, Gus, into their family. -[531.40 --> 532.50] That's when you applaud. -[532.60 --> 532.80] Yay. -[532.92 --> 533.98] Congratulations to them. -[533.98 --> 534.98] Thank you. -[536.48 --> 542.78] One of the ways that we serve new and growing families is by providing meals for them. -[542.88 --> 544.76] And so, we've set up a meal train. -[545.28 --> 551.96] If you're interested or able to help with that, please just talk to Wendy Fulkerts or Karen Vartstra, -[552.24 --> 556.04] and they will help you get that coordinated for them. -[557.12 --> 559.08] I think that's all for this morning. -[559.08 --> 565.56] I'm going to invite you, as you're able, to stand, and we can be ushered into God's presence together. -[565.56 --> 576.86] When we gather as a community of believers, we gather in the presence of our God. -[577.22 --> 582.34] He is here among us in a special and unique way in worship. -[582.54 --> 590.02] And we mark that, and we acknowledge that, as he greets us and welcomes us into this place for worship. -[590.02 --> 592.44] We receive the greeting of God. -[594.02 --> 597.52] Grace, mercy, and peace to you. -[597.82 --> 604.96] From God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[605.58 --> 607.48] All God's people said, Amen. -[607.48 --> 607.66] Amen. -[607.66 --> 615.66] 55. -[615.66 --> 619.78] Come to the water, all who are thirsty. -[620.52 --> 622.44] All you who thirst. -[622.92 --> 625.12] Come drink deeply from the river of life. -[625.84 --> 627.86] Come to the water, all who are weary. -[628.52 --> 631.04] Come rest in the quiet pools of God's love. -[631.84 --> 635.60] Come to the water, all you who long for justice. -[635.60 --> 638.78] Come be renewed in God's overflowing stream. -[639.56 --> 643.60] For God is here among us, washing away the dust and grime of our lives, -[644.16 --> 648.24] and pouring out his Spirit on all of us who thirst. -[648.24 --> 653.98] I know. -[654.20 --> 656.94] And that's our gospel. -[656.94 --> 686.92] I love you. -[686.94 --> 716.92] I love you. -[716.94 --> 746.92] I love you. -[746.94 --> 776.92] I love you. -[776.94 --> 780.94] I love you. -[780.94 --> 782.94] I love you. -[782.94 --> 784.94] I love you. -[784.94 --> 786.94] I love you. -[786.94 --> 792.94] I love you. -[792.94 --> 802.94] I love you. -[802.94 --> 812.94] I love you. -[812.94 --> 822.94] I love you. -[822.94 --> 832.94] I love you. -[832.94 --> 842.94] I love you. -[842.94 --> 852.94] I love you. -[852.94 --> 854.94] I love you. -[854.94 --> 858.94] I love you. -[858.94 --> 860.94] I love you. -[860.94 --> 864.94] I love you. -[864.94 --> 866.94] I love you. -[866.94 --> 868.94] I love you. -[868.94 --> 870.94] I love you. -[870.94 --> 872.94] I love you. -[872.94 --> 874.94] I love you. -[874.94 --> 876.94] I love you. -[876.94 --> 882.94] I love you. -[882.94 --> 884.94] I love you. -[884.94 --> 886.94] I love you. -[886.94 --> 888.94] I love you. -[888.94 --> 890.94] I love you. -[890.94 --> 892.94] I love you. -[892.94 --> 894.94] I love you. -[894.94 --> 896.94] I love you. -[896.94 --> 898.94] I love you. -[898.94 --> 900.94] I love you. -[900.94 --> 902.94] I love you. -[902.94 --> 910.94] I love you. -[910.94 --> 912.94] I love you. -[912.94 --> 920.94] I love you. -[920.94 --> 922.94] I love you. -[922.94 --> 924.94] I love you. -[924.94 --> 926.94] I love you. -[926.94 --> 927.12] I love you. -[927.46 --> 928.94] Alleluia. -[936.94 --> 938.94] I love you. -[938.94 --> 940.94] I love you. -[940.94 --> 941.20] I love you. -[943.34 --> 947.38] I love you. -[947.38 --> 951.42] I love you. -[951.42 --> 961.42] oh -[961.42 --> 977.42] Oh, you are holy, holy, for you, Lord, you are mighty. -[977.42 --> 996.42] Oh, you are holy, holy, for you, Lord, you are mighty. -[996.42 --> 1002.42] Oh, you are mighty, oh, you are mighty. -[1002.42 --> 1005.42] Amen. -[1007.42 --> 1015.28] You may have a seat. -[1018.70 --> 1022.02] Please join me this morning in our prayer of confession. -[1025.26 --> 1028.78] Lord, we come to you this morning with grateful hearts, -[1029.74 --> 1033.62] grateful because you are forever compassionate and gracious, -[1034.50 --> 1036.98] slow to anger and abounding in love. -[1038.42 --> 1042.34] Lord, although we confess that our sins are many and frequent, -[1043.04 --> 1049.04] and often we admit repetitive, we ask again and again for your forgiveness. -[1049.04 --> 1054.44] We thank you that you have not dealt with us according to our sins, -[1054.66 --> 1057.64] nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. -[1058.14 --> 1060.52] What grace you have shown us. -[1062.04 --> 1066.28] Lord, you have also assured us that as high as the heavens are above the earth, -[1066.74 --> 1070.68] so great is your loving kindness toward us who fear you. -[1070.68 --> 1071.68] what kindness you have shown us. -[1071.68 --> 1073.90] What kindness you have shown us. -[1075.30 --> 1080.02] We thank you, gracious and kind Lord, that as we celebrate Lord's Supper this morning, -[1080.02 --> 1083.90] we are reminded that through your sacrifice on the cross, -[1083.90 --> 1089.28] we can have assurance that as far as the east is from the west, -[1089.74 --> 1093.52] so far have you removed our transgressions from us. -[1093.52 --> 1101.34] may we be and remain forever grateful for your sacrifice on the cross. -[1101.34 --> 1104.68] in your precious name we pray, Jesus. -[1105.78 --> 1106.12] Amen. -[1106.12 --> 1106.28] Amen. -[1106.28 --> 1112.52] Please raise as we continue to sing. -[1112.52 --> 1114.62] — -[1114.62 --> 1144.60] guitar solo -[1144.62 --> 1174.60] guitar solo -[1174.62 --> 1204.60] guitar solo -[1204.62 --> 1206.62] guitar solo -[1206.62 --> 1210.58] Whisper stars -[1210.58 --> 1216.48] guitar solo -[1217.32 --> 1217.62] guitar solo -[1217.62 --> 1222.92] improve -[1222.92 --> 1226.54] guitar solo -[1226.54 --> 1228.60] guitar solo -[1228.62 --> 1230.62] Mariel fading -[1230.62 --> 1232.56] guitar solo -[1232.56 --> 1242.52] What you pray to seek and save the most -[1242.52 --> 1248.62] I'm forever grateful to you -[1248.62 --> 1255.44] I'm forever grateful for the cross -[1255.44 --> 1261.38] I'm forever grateful to you -[1261.38 --> 1271.38] What you pray to seek and save the most -[1291.38 --> 1298.38] Our Father everlasting -[1298.38 --> 1303.38] We are creating love -[1303.38 --> 1306.38] God Almighty -[1306.38 --> 1312.38] Through your Holy Spirit -[1312.38 --> 1316.38] Conceiving Christ the Son -[1316.38 --> 1320.38] Jesus the Savior -[1320.38 --> 1326.38] I believe in God our Father -[1326.38 --> 1329.38] I believe in Christ the Son -[1329.38 --> 1333.38] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[1333.38 --> 1336.38] Our God is free and one -[1336.38 --> 1339.38] I believe in the resurrection -[1339.38 --> 1343.38] That we will rise again -[1343.38 --> 1349.38] For I believe in the name of Jesus -[1349.38 --> 1366.38] Our judge and our defense -[1366.38 --> 1370.38] Suffered and crucified -[1370.38 --> 1377.38] The goodness is in you -[1377.38 --> 1380.38] Descended into darkness -[1380.38 --> 1384.38] You rose in glorious light -[1384.38 --> 1387.38] Forever seated -[1387.38 --> 1391.38] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[1391.38 --> 1393.38] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[1393.38 --> 1395.38] Our God is free and one -[1395.38 --> 1397.38] I believe in Christ the Son -[1397.38 --> 1398.38] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[1398.38 --> 1400.38] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[1400.38 --> 1402.38] Our God is free and one -[1402.38 --> 1405.38] I believe in the resurrection -[1405.38 --> 1406.38] That we will rise again -[1406.38 --> 1410.38] That we will rise again -[1410.38 --> 1415.38] For I believe in the name of Jesus -[1415.38 --> 1417.38] Jesus -[1417.38 --> 1419.38] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[1419.38 --> 1420.58] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[1421.38 --> 1425.38] I believe in the Son -[1425.38 --> 1427.38] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[1427.38 --> 1429.38] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[1429.38 --> 1430.38] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[1430.38 --> 1433.38] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[1433.38 --> 1435.38] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[1435.38 --> 1436.38] That the Holy Spirit -[1436.38 --> 1440.38] Jesus Christ is born -[1440.38 --> 1450.26] I believe in you -[1450.26 --> 1457.12] I believe you rose again -[1457.12 --> 1466.82] I believe that Jesus Christ is Lord -[1470.38 --> 1475.70] I believe in life eternal -[1475.70 --> 1479.32] I believe in the virgin birth -[1479.32 --> 1482.50] I believe in the saints communion -[1482.50 --> 1486.28] And in your holy church -[1486.28 --> 1489.50] I believe in life erected -[1489.50 --> 1492.64] And he will come again -[1492.64 --> 1498.60] For I believe in the name of Jesus -[1498.60 --> 1502.36] I believe in God our Father -[1502.36 --> 1505.72] I believe in Christ the Son -[1505.72 --> 1508.92] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[1508.92 --> 1512.40] Our God is free and one -[1512.40 --> 1515.26] I believe in the resurrection -[1515.26 --> 1518.88] And we will rise again -[1518.88 --> 1524.92] For I believe in the name of Jesus -[1524.92 --> 1532.30] For I believe in the name of Jesus -[1532.30 --> 1541.20] You may have a seat -[1554.92 --> 1558.96] Good morning -[1558.96 --> 1560.16] My name is Yap -[1560.16 --> 1562.90] I'm a deacon here at Langley Emanuel -[1562.90 --> 1567.80] Today's offering is for Langley Emanuel Ministry and Mission -[1567.80 --> 1572.86] And the special offering is for North American Indigenous Ministries -[1572.86 --> 1579.62] Name is committed to the growth and maturity of the First Nations Church -[1579.62 --> 1583.48] Resulting in vibrant ministry to its community and beyond -[1583.48 --> 1587.20] They desire to see strong, healthy First Nation believers -[1587.20 --> 1590.40] Connected to strong, healthy local churches -[1590.40 --> 1594.84] From Mark 16, verse 15 -[1594.84 --> 1596.14] He said to them -[1596.14 --> 1599.46] Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation -[1599.46 --> 1603.94] Next week's collection will be for Gateway of Hope -[1603.94 --> 1611.04] Jesus programmation world -[1611.04 --> 1611.72] Come into all the palavra -[1611.72 --> 1613.40] Heroes -[1615.48 --> 1615.66] Jesus -[1615.66 --> 1628.38] 万 -[1628.38 --> 1629.40] division -[1629.40 --> 1643.08] How I long to breathe the air of heaven -[1643.08 --> 1650.48] When pain is gone and mercy fills the streets -[1650.48 --> 1657.20] Don't go home, the one who pled to save me -[1657.20 --> 1662.96] And walk with Him for all eternity -[1662.96 --> 1674.00] There will be a day when all love forgives -[1674.00 --> 1680.80] There will be a day when death will be no more -[1680.80 --> 1687.12] Standing face to face, making the right and wrong -[1687.12 --> 1696.88] Holy, holy is mine -[1696.88 --> 1704.88] Every prayer we claim desperation -[1704.88 --> 1712.64] His arms of pain we save through doubt and fear -[1712.64 --> 1718.64] In the end, we'll see that it was worth it -[1718.64 --> 1728.40] That He returns to wipe away our tears -[1728.40 --> 1734.16] There will be a day when all love forgives -[1734.16 --> 1741.16] There will be a day when death will be no more -[1741.16 --> 1748.92] Standing face to face, making the right and wrong -[1748.92 --> 1764.68] And on that day, we'll join the resurrection -[1764.68 --> 1772.44] And stand beside the heroes of the faith -[1772.44 --> 1782.20] With one voice, a thousand generations -[1782.20 --> 1787.96] Sing, holy is the Lamb who was saved -[1787.96 --> 1791.96] And on that day, we'll join the resurrection -[1791.96 --> 1795.96] And stand beside the heroes of the faith -[1795.96 --> 1805.72] With one voice, a thousand generations -[1805.72 --> 1807.72] With one voice, a thousand generations -[1807.72 --> 1813.72] Sing, holy is the Lamb who was saved -[1813.72 --> 1815.60] For another one, a thousand generations -[1815.60 --> 1820.52] For another one, a thousand generations -[1820.52 --> 1823.48] And on that day, we'll see that it was worth it -[1823.48 --> 1837.44] There will be a day when all will bow for Him. There will be a day when death will be no more. -[1837.44 --> 1845.32] Standing face to face with He who adored and rose above. -[1845.32 --> 1860.20] Holy, holy is the Lord, so let it be today. We shall be together with angels and the saints. -[1860.20 --> 1872.08] We raise mighty You, glory to our God, You gave us life beyond the grave. -[1872.08 --> 1893.08] Holy, holy is the Lord. -[1893.08 --> 1913.20] Good morning. My name is Mr. Mike, and I'm going to invite all the kindergartens to, well, no, grade, sorry, three-year-olds, all the way up to grade four. -[1913.30 --> 1915.28] I get all mixed up. Come on up, guys. -[1915.80 --> 1917.90] And we're going to head off to children's worship time pretty quick. -[1917.90 --> 1924.90] But I have a few questions for you first. -[1924.90 --> 1928.90] It's good to see you guys. It's been a while, hey? -[1928.90 --> 1932.90] Yeah, I haven't seen you since last year, some of you. -[1932.90 --> 1935.90] Been waiting all week for that joke. Nothing. -[1935.90 --> 1940.90] Anyway, did you guys have a good holiday? I haven't seen you since before the holidays. -[1940.90 --> 1945.46] Yeah? Did you guys, like, were you, like, so excited for Christmas? -[1946.24 --> 1949.34] Yeah? Did you think about it for months and months and months? -[1949.90 --> 1950.86] Yeah, yeah, I know. -[1951.14 --> 1955.34] And sometimes, do you sometimes think about children's worship time that way? -[1955.80 --> 1957.60] Okay, good answer. -[1958.90 --> 1961.60] I know. Hey, what's the big thing with Christmas? -[1961.90 --> 1964.92] What are we celebrating that we're so anxious for? -[1965.14 --> 1966.90] Jesus' birthday, right? Jesus' birthday. -[1966.90 --> 1974.40] Well, sometimes we have these big things, like holidays or Christmas or going on a big trip -[1974.40 --> 1978.22] that we, like, look forward to forever and we just think about it so much -[1978.22 --> 1980.74] and it just can't come any faster, right? -[1980.82 --> 1986.20] Just like Jesus' birthday or, like, your own birthday maybe. -[1986.82 --> 1988.06] Yeah? I know, right? -[1988.88 --> 1989.78] Is your birthday soon? -[1989.86 --> 1991.56] I know. I bet you some of you guys just had one. -[1991.94 --> 1992.66] Some of you are coming up. -[1992.66 --> 1993.88] What is one of the big things? -[1993.98 --> 1999.96] If I put this big cake in front of you, would that be, like, oh, my goodness. -[2000.04 --> 2002.48] Like, if your mom showed you this birthday cake and she's, like, -[2002.48 --> 2007.40] I'm going to make you this birthday cake for your birthday, would you be, like, so excited? -[2007.98 --> 2009.60] But would you want it, like, right away? -[2010.64 --> 2011.00] No. -[2011.14 --> 2014.08] Some of you could probably wait, but I would want to eat it right away. -[2014.14 --> 2015.28] I wouldn't know what to do with myself. -[2016.18 --> 2017.10] It's just a muffin. -[2018.00 --> 2020.74] Maybe some people love a good muffin, I'll tell you. -[2020.74 --> 2022.58] You know what, though? -[2022.62 --> 2025.92] I had a big birthday recently and I thought about it for months and months -[2025.92 --> 2028.66] and I looked forward to all these things, -[2028.76 --> 2031.18] but I didn't know what was going to all happen at my big birthday. -[2031.80 --> 2034.42] And then it came and guess what? -[2035.40 --> 2037.82] It was even better than I thought it was going to be. -[2038.50 --> 2041.92] There was, like, there was, like, a party and I had a big cake -[2041.92 --> 2045.96] and there was a special visitor that flew in to visit that I didn't know was coming. -[2046.44 --> 2049.78] And then we went, like, laser tagging and we played my favorite game. -[2049.78 --> 2054.84] All of these things, it promised to be even better than I thought. -[2054.96 --> 2056.34] Does that sometimes happen for you guys? -[2056.86 --> 2057.54] I hope so. -[2057.62 --> 2060.82] Sometimes we look forward to things and then it's even better than we thought. -[2061.24 --> 2061.54] Right? -[2062.16 --> 2065.60] We're going to talk about that today in Children's Worship Time -[2065.60 --> 2068.32] because we just talked about Jesus coming, right? -[2069.00 --> 2074.54] We just talked about him coming and maybe, maybe for the Israelites and even for us, -[2074.54 --> 2080.12] maybe there's an even bigger promise yet to come that we are, -[2080.20 --> 2082.18] it's going to be even better than we think it can be. -[2082.44 --> 2082.60] Yeah? -[2082.72 --> 2085.00] So we'll talk about that some more today in Children's Worship Time. -[2085.24 --> 2088.80] We're starting a whole new sort of section about Jesus' life -[2088.80 --> 2093.30] and all the big promises that he fulfilled that lots of people have looked forward to -[2093.30 --> 2094.30] for a long, long time. -[2095.10 --> 2096.84] Okay, let's stand and do the Children's Blessing -[2096.84 --> 2098.60] and we'll talk some more in Children's Worship Time. -[2098.60 --> 2102.02] All right. -[2102.96 --> 2106.84] Put our arms up and we're going to bless our moms and dads and brothers and sisters -[2106.84 --> 2109.14] that are going to hang out here in the sanctuary. -[2109.98 --> 2111.64] The Lord be with you. -[2112.46 --> 2112.94] Amen. -[2128.60 --> 2129.94] Good morning, everyone. -[2130.10 --> 2130.98] My name's Eric. -[2131.12 --> 2132.86] I'm a council member here at Emanuel. -[2134.64 --> 2137.62] First Sunday kind of in the new year. -[2137.72 --> 2138.66] Happy New Year, everyone. -[2138.90 --> 2139.40] Happy New Year. -[2140.30 --> 2140.84] Happy New Year. -[2140.96 --> 2141.20] All right. -[2141.24 --> 2141.64] That's good. -[2143.28 --> 2147.04] Just a couple of council notes before we go into family prayer this morning. -[2149.20 --> 2154.58] A few weeks ago, we said thanks to Sylvia and she's moved on -[2154.58 --> 2159.66] and Marilyn has taken her position in the office, so we're quite thankful for that. -[2161.08 --> 2165.66] So that transition's happening here in the new year over the next couple weeks. -[2166.04 --> 2168.62] Sylvia's working on training Marilyn for that. -[2168.78 --> 2173.34] So everything should still go into the same steps in terms of getting receipts -[2173.34 --> 2176.18] and all that stuff for your givings for the year and all those kinds of things. -[2176.28 --> 2177.84] So if you have a chance to come to the office -[2177.84 --> 2180.76] and you want to introduce yourself to Marilyn, that would be fantastic. -[2182.00 --> 2183.50] Another item of Thanksgiving, -[2183.50 --> 2188.16] even though we were short about 8% from our budget for 2022, -[2188.60 --> 2195.76] we are very thankful and gracious that we were able to cut down on the difference -[2195.76 --> 2196.46] at the end of the year. -[2196.54 --> 2199.78] So we thank you, everyone, for their financial contributions at the end of the year. -[2201.48 --> 2202.72] And some news. -[2202.92 --> 2205.44] So since we have an opening in the office right now, -[2205.50 --> 2207.00] we're calling the new position. -[2207.12 --> 2208.82] It's going to be called the Communications Assistant, -[2208.82 --> 2211.52] and there is a link on the website. -[2211.66 --> 2215.48] So if anyone is interested in that position here at Emmanuel, -[2215.48 --> 2218.10] you may have a chance to look at it on the website. -[2218.36 --> 2221.92] And if you have any questions, you can always talk to Pastor Chris or myself -[2221.92 --> 2225.92] or Stacey Klosterhoff if you have any questions about that position. -[2225.92 --> 2229.92] Transitioning now to family prayer, -[2229.98 --> 2233.36] there's a couple things that I wanted to pass your way. -[2234.16 --> 2238.86] Benita Smid, turns out she has a tumor on her bladder, -[2239.08 --> 2242.20] and later on this week she's going to be getting a biopsy on it -[2242.20 --> 2243.90] to find out what's going on there, -[2244.02 --> 2246.14] whether it's something to be of concern. -[2246.24 --> 2249.20] Obviously it's of concern, but what the next steps will be. -[2249.20 --> 2256.68] Dave Harris a few weeks ago was reporting on his wife Leanne's dad -[2256.68 --> 2259.14] who has advanced stage cancer in his lungs. -[2260.14 --> 2261.28] Not much has changed there. -[2261.38 --> 2263.26] He has maybe days, weeks to live, -[2263.44 --> 2266.04] because the cancer has advanced quite a bit. -[2267.30 --> 2268.76] If you had a chance to look at the bulletin, -[2268.90 --> 2272.16] we want the Heinen family lost someone special to you. -[2272.44 --> 2275.22] Henry, Marie's dad's wife, -[2275.32 --> 2278.40] passed away recently in the last couple weeks, -[2278.40 --> 2280.96] so that's an item of prayer for their family. -[2283.32 --> 2285.16] Item of thanks, Chris already mentioned it, -[2285.18 --> 2287.08] to the Howling family for a new little baby there. -[2287.22 --> 2288.76] Gus, we're thankful for that. -[2288.82 --> 2291.20] Another addition to the family, Emmanuel family. -[2293.42 --> 2295.56] And I just want to, part of my prayer this morning -[2295.56 --> 2300.64] is going to be about for parents over the last couple months. -[2300.64 --> 2304.00] I've been hearing some things from parents about little kids, -[2304.18 --> 2307.76] teenagers, adult kids, the challenges that are with that. -[2307.76 --> 2313.04] So I just want to let you know that you're in my prayers and thoughts as well. -[2313.24 --> 2316.88] So I'm going to have that as part of my prayer this morning. -[2317.14 --> 2318.68] So please join me in prayer. -[2320.64 --> 2322.90] Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be your name. -[2323.88 --> 2325.56] Thank you, God, for this day. -[2326.20 --> 2328.84] A nice Sunday morning where we can come here to work church, -[2328.92 --> 2331.52] to worship you and enjoy fellowship with our church family. -[2331.52 --> 2336.06] We give thanks for this country, city we live in, -[2336.12 --> 2339.02] with all its beauty, potential, and social stability. -[2340.06 --> 2343.88] We sometimes, Lord, forget how blessed we are to live in this country of Canada -[2343.88 --> 2346.46] and speak often of the issues and problems we have. -[2347.42 --> 2351.66] But really, when we take a moment to listen and read about the amount of strife -[2351.66 --> 2355.74] in other parts of the world, like Ukraine, China, and now Mexico, -[2355.74 --> 2357.44] we are thankful for our country. -[2359.30 --> 2361.60] Lord, in our own church, we have much to be thankful for. -[2361.68 --> 2365.80] We have a great staff leading us, our youth, our children, and our young adults. -[2366.74 --> 2370.90] Our ministry programs are doing well, from cadets to gems to children's worship time -[2370.90 --> 2375.42] to youth and coffee break and all the others that happen regularly here at Emmanuel. -[2375.42 --> 2379.78] We are thankful for the leadership team of elders and deacons -[2379.78 --> 2383.02] who have taken on the responsibilities that come with those roles. -[2384.66 --> 2387.90] And, Lord, we cannot forget the many volunteers here at Emmanuel -[2387.90 --> 2391.14] that put in a ton of effort to make this church function as it does. -[2392.54 --> 2395.80] We give thanks, Lord, for the financial commitment of our members here -[2395.80 --> 2397.08] to the operation of Emmanuel. -[2398.14 --> 2401.46] Through the adversity of the world and locally over the past two years, -[2401.52 --> 2404.18] we are blessed with the financial stability we have here. -[2405.42 --> 2409.30] With all the blessings, Lord, we have to experience, -[2409.42 --> 2412.20] we do have prayer requests to present to you at this time. -[2413.06 --> 2417.58] We pray for the Heinen family with the sudden loss of Henry's wife, Helen, recently. -[2418.48 --> 2421.56] Helen was loved by many, and her free spirit will be missed. -[2422.54 --> 2424.70] We pray for those in our family here at Emmanuel -[2424.70 --> 2428.72] who are suffering physically from ailments that are affecting quality of life. -[2429.84 --> 2431.84] This can be very difficult to manage -[2431.84 --> 2435.74] and can be difficult psychologically to deal with on a day-to-day basis. -[2436.18 --> 2438.18] We ask for healing for all of those people. -[2439.78 --> 2441.36] We pray for those who are lonely, -[2441.90 --> 2444.16] those who have mental health challenges, depression, -[2444.38 --> 2446.04] and any of those unseen challenges. -[2446.04 --> 2449.76] We ask you, Lord, to give these people peace and comfort, -[2449.92 --> 2452.16] and may they feel your presence as they walk this journey. -[2453.54 --> 2457.84] We pray, Lord, for parents and any of those who have the responsibility of mentoring -[2457.84 --> 2463.44] or raising children today to be a parent, grandparent, or close family friend. -[2463.44 --> 2467.70] From the age of little Gus Howling all the way to adult children, -[2467.82 --> 2470.90] the handbook on navigating life is not an exact science. -[2472.20 --> 2475.26] We pray, Lord, that you give parents of young children -[2475.26 --> 2478.54] the energy and wisdom to do a great job raising their children. -[2479.66 --> 2481.28] As children get older, Lord, -[2481.28 --> 2483.36] we ask that you give parents even more wisdom -[2483.36 --> 2487.10] to navigate the challenges of school and social life and home dynamics. -[2488.64 --> 2491.00] And, Lord, as our children become teenagers and young adults, -[2491.12 --> 2493.56] give us parents even more wisdom and patience -[2493.56 --> 2496.44] as we assist our children into the transition to adulthood. -[2498.22 --> 2501.12] For parents, as children become adults, -[2501.26 --> 2503.36] many of the worries and challenges don't end, -[2503.70 --> 2506.12] and sleepless nights and anxieties persist. -[2506.12 --> 2511.78] Our world today seems to be more complex and complicated every year -[2511.78 --> 2514.50] with numerous distractions from you, Lord. -[2515.42 --> 2518.36] Our prayer, Lord, is that we can feel your presence and guidance -[2518.36 --> 2521.54] in our parenting and raising of children in this world of ours. -[2522.34 --> 2523.58] Give us wisdom and help, -[2524.20 --> 2527.30] and help us find support in friends and resources -[2527.30 --> 2529.32] and our church family and in you. -[2531.08 --> 2532.32] It's a new year, Lord. -[2532.38 --> 2534.16] We can see it as a fresh start. -[2534.16 --> 2537.28] Lord, most of us set new goals and plans at this time. -[2538.18 --> 2540.96] Our goal, Lord, will be to include you in those goals and plans. -[2541.88 --> 2546.82] Give us wisdom, and may we feel you near in the year to come. -[2548.06 --> 2550.94] We know, Lord, that not a hair does not fall from our head -[2550.94 --> 2552.08] without you knowing of it. -[2552.78 --> 2554.44] With that in mind, may we have confidence -[2554.44 --> 2555.94] that you are in control of this world -[2555.94 --> 2558.36] and that we can trust that your will will be done -[2558.36 --> 2559.54] and that you love us -[2559.54 --> 2562.38] and want nothing less than the best for us. -[2564.16 --> 2565.90] May we be a light for you, Lord, -[2566.28 --> 2568.34] and to those around us in the week to come. -[2568.70 --> 2570.34] And we ask all this in your name. -[2570.72 --> 2570.96] Amen. -[2570.96 --> 2571.06] Amen. -[2571.06 --> 2571.08] Amen. -[2571.08 --> 2571.12] Amen. -[2571.12 --> 2571.22] Amen. -[2571.22 --> 2571.26] Amen. -[2571.26 --> 2573.10] Amen. -[2573.10 --> 2573.20] Amen. -[2573.20 --> 2573.22] Amen. -[2573.22 --> 2573.26] Amen. -[2573.26 --> 2573.28] Amen. -[2573.28 --> 2573.30] Amen. -[2573.30 --> 2575.22] Amen. -[2575.22 --> 2575.34] Amen. -[2575.34 --> 2577.22] Amen. -[2577.22 --> 2577.28] Amen. -[2577.28 --> 2577.34] Amen. -[2577.34 --> 2577.44] Amen. -[2577.44 --> 2578.30] Amen. -[2578.30 --> 2579.30] Amen. -[2579.30 --> 2581.38] Amen. -[2594.16 --> 2595.06] Amen. -[2595.06 --> 2597.46] Amen. -[2597.46 --> 2597.74] Amen. -[2598.38 --> 2599.38] Amen. -[2599.38 --> 2600.38] Amen. -[2600.38 --> 2601.28] Amen. -[2601.28 --> 2601.40] Amen. -[2601.40 --> 2601.66] Amen. -[2601.66 --> 2601.86] Amen. -[2601.86 --> 2601.88] Amen. -[2601.88 --> 2603.88] Amen. -[2603.90 --> 2603.98] Amen. -[2603.98 --> 2605.92] Amen. -[2605.92 --> 2605.96] Amen. -[2605.96 --> 2606.02] Amen. -[2606.08 --> 2606.62] Amen. -[2606.62 --> 2607.60] Amen. -[2607.78 --> 2607.94] Amen. -[2607.94 --> 2608.44] Amen. -[2608.44 --> 2608.80] Amen. -[2608.80 --> 2609.06] Amen. -[2609.06 --> 2610.82] Amen. -[2610.84 --> 2610.90] Amen. -[2610.90 --> 2610.94] Amen. -[2610.96 --> 2611.90] Amen. -[2611.90 --> 2613.00] Amen. -[2613.00 --> 2613.94] Amen. -[2613.94 --> 2613.96] Amen. -[2613.96 --> 2615.34] Amen. -[2615.46 --> 2616.08] Amen. -[2616.08 --> 2618.86] Amen. -[2620.84 --> 2621.84] Amen. -[2621.84 --> 2622.24] Amen. -[2622.24 --> 2622.96] Amen. -[2622.96 --> 2623.28] Amen. -[2623.28 --> 2623.54] Amen. -[2623.54 --> 2624.12] Amen. -[2624.12 --> 2630.62] Bible. I'm going to invite you to turn to that, open it up to Romans 1. We're going to read the -[2630.62 --> 2644.28] first 15 verses together. From Romans 1. -[2644.28 --> 2654.66] Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God. -[2655.34 --> 2661.08] The gospel he promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy scriptures regarding his son, -[2661.88 --> 2668.20] who as to his earthly life was a descendant of David, and who through the spirit of holiness -[2668.20 --> 2676.50] was appointed the son of God in power by his resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord. -[2677.54 --> 2684.08] Through him we received grace and apostleship to call all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes -[2684.08 --> 2691.86] from faith for his name's sake. And you also are among those Gentiles who are called to belong to -[2691.86 --> 2702.16] Jesus Christ. To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be his holy people, grace and peace to -[2702.16 --> 2710.44] you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ. First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ -[2710.44 --> 2717.98] for all of you because your faith is being reported all over the world. God whom I serve in my spirit -[2717.98 --> 2725.68] in preaching the gospel of his son is my witness how I constantly remember you in my prayers at all -[2725.68 --> 2732.12] times. And I pray that now at last by God's will the way may be opened for me to come to you. -[2733.46 --> 2741.74] I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong. That is, -[2741.82 --> 2747.96] that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith. I do not want you to be -[2747.96 --> 2753.10] unaware, brothers and sisters, that I planned many times to come to you, but have been prevented -[2753.10 --> 2760.12] from doing so until now in order that I might have a harvest among you just as I have had among -[2760.12 --> 2767.36] the other Gentiles. I am obligated both to Greeks and non-Greeks, both to the wise and the foolish. -[2768.16 --> 2775.94] That is why I am so eager to preach the gospel also to you who are in Rome. -[2775.94 --> 2778.24] This is the word of the Lord. -[2783.58 --> 2794.16] Have I asked you what your favorite book is? How might you respond? What's your favorite book? -[2794.16 --> 2803.62] Ecclesiastes. Oh, there's a stranger in the house, or a strange one in the house, we'll say. -[2804.30 --> 2806.10] Ecclesiastes is meaningless. That doesn't count. -[2808.08 --> 2809.34] Some of you got it. Great. -[2809.34 --> 2816.84] Now, Ecclesiastes notwithstanding, I know that asking the question, what's your favorite book, -[2816.94 --> 2824.52] presumes that you read. Now, I also know that many of you don't actually read, and so maybe we -[2824.52 --> 2829.76] should ask the question, what's your favorite movie, or what's your favorite hobby? Right? I know -[2829.76 --> 2836.24] for myself, I actually was thinking about this, but I really struggled to pick, and I couldn't choose -[2836.24 --> 2843.14] between the Harry Potter Order of the Phoenix or the Christopher Paolini Inheritance Cycle series, -[2843.26 --> 2849.26] but that's four books, so then I thought that's cheating, so now I don't know. Maybe it's the -[2849.26 --> 2855.72] Percy Jackson series. Maybe if it's the Tale of Magic. I'm looking at you, Dora. Yep. -[2855.72 --> 2864.78] My son, who is seven, is really into Dogman and Captain Underpants. I don't know what that's all -[2864.78 --> 2871.78] about. We're also reading a lot of those, like, who would win books in my house right now, right? So -[2871.78 --> 2878.66] you've got, like, Lobster versus Crab, and then if they fight, who would win? Again, I don't, that seems -[2878.66 --> 2892.36] to be a favorite. Travelers, there you go. What's your favorite? Grab the microphone. -[2892.36 --> 2906.96] All right. We're going to live here again. What's your favorite book? Now, the reason I ask this -[2906.96 --> 2914.06] question is because I'm about to say something that you might go, hmm, that seems strange, because one -[2914.06 --> 2922.58] of my favorite books in the Bible is Romans, but you've probably also heard me say that one of my -[2922.58 --> 2927.12] favorite books in the Bible is Philippians, and you might have also heard me say that one of my -[2927.12 --> 2931.72] favorite books of the Bible is Galatians, and you might have heard me say that one of my favorite -[2931.72 --> 2937.48] books of the Bible is Joshua. Now, if you have so many favorites, is there really a favorite? Maybe I -[2937.48 --> 2945.96] should just say that my favorite book is the Bible. I bring this up because years ago, when I first -[2945.96 --> 2951.68] met Rachel's parents, she's now my wife, my mother-in-law asked me this question, -[2952.30 --> 2962.54] what's your favorite book? And I answered, Romans. Now, I love my mother-in-law very, very much, -[2962.54 --> 2971.30] but she looked me square in the eyes, and she said, ah, Romans, huh? I'm more of a James kind -[2971.30 --> 2980.82] of Christian. Give me something to do. Don't give me doctrine. And I thought, huh, this is how it's -[2980.82 --> 2988.00] going to be for the rest of my life. Mom, if you're listening, because I know you might be, I love you. -[2988.00 --> 2998.48] Point is, Romans can be a hard book because it is full of doctrine. It's one of the most, -[2998.78 --> 3005.84] or the most expansive letters that Paul writes. It covers a huge swath of topics and goes deep into -[3005.84 --> 3021.14] them. But that doesn't mean it's not practical, right? Good doctrine is always practical. And so even -[3021.14 --> 3028.62] as we dig for the next while into the book of Romans, we will ground ourselves in the truth -[3028.62 --> 3037.60] of what Paul writes, of what God says for our everyday practical lives together. -[3039.92 --> 3043.50] I am going to ask something of you, though, throughout this, because -[3043.50 --> 3052.44] if as we go through this series, you have questions or wondering or you're taking notes -[3052.44 --> 3058.82] and you're just not sure, reach out to me. Email me or call me, text me, whatever. Grab me after -[3058.82 --> 3066.10] service. That's fine. Let's talk about it and let's wrestle together. As we begin, we start at the -[3066.10 --> 3075.46] beginning. That makes sense. Romans 1. Now, Paul is writing this letter sometime around AD 57. -[3075.46 --> 3083.36] It's during his third missionary journey, and he's probably in the Greek city of Corinth. -[3084.34 --> 3090.24] And we know that from some of the overlap. We can talk about that in the people that he has met -[3090.24 --> 3097.52] of Gaius and Erastus. Now, Paul, when he writes this letter, has not yet been to Rome. The church in -[3097.52 --> 3104.66] Rome is not one that he founded, unlike many of the other churches of the day. He has not met the -[3104.66 --> 3112.94] Christians in Rome, though it's clear he knows some of them or knows many of them even. What's more, -[3113.02 --> 3118.80] it's also clear that he knows their struggles. He's heard of their challenges. He's heard of the -[3118.80 --> 3124.40] divisions or the debates and the struggles that they are living in the midst of. And as he says in -[3124.40 --> 3133.88] verse 11, he longs to see them so that he may impart to you or to them some spiritual gift to make you -[3133.88 --> 3142.60] strong. And that verse, verse 11, is kind of the point of the whole letter, right? And it's the -[3142.60 --> 3148.74] theme that we're going to focus on this morning, right? The spiritual gift that makes you strong. -[3150.18 --> 3156.48] And so, of course, that begs the question, right? What is the gift? What will make this church strong? -[3156.48 --> 3167.06] In a word, the answer to that question is pretty simple, and yet it is incredibly profound. -[3168.14 --> 3175.32] The spiritual gift that Paul is talking about that will make the church in Rome strong is the gospel. -[3176.84 --> 3179.84] Right off, right from the beginning, notice in verse 1, -[3179.84 --> 3189.56] Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God. -[3190.84 --> 3195.78] Now, if you are familiar with the New Testament writings or if you're familiar with the classics -[3195.78 --> 3203.40] period, you know that this is a pretty standard letter opening format that Paul is using. -[3203.40 --> 3210.54] Now, today, when we write letters or emails or even sometimes texts, right, we start with the other -[3210.54 --> 3218.90] person's name, right? We say, dear Rachel, how I love you. Let me count the ways. Have I ever written -[3218.90 --> 3227.46] you that letter? No. But I do, right? Or we might send a text. Hey, Kevin, it's Chris. It's good to see -[3227.46 --> 3233.96] you at church on Sunday. Want to grab coffee this week? Not in Paul's day. In Paul's day, you started -[3233.96 --> 3242.14] with your own name and then probably with a title or a position statement of authority as to why this -[3242.14 --> 3252.94] person should listen to you. So, Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ. Now, that word servant in Greek -[3252.94 --> 3262.60] is doulos. It's a slave. More specifically, it's someone who calls themselves, or who gives themselves -[3262.60 --> 3269.98] rather, completely into the service of another. The old word that was used here in the Bible translation -[3269.98 --> 3277.82] is bond servant. But that's not really a word we use anymore and even less so one that we know what -[3277.82 --> 3285.34] it means. Point is, it's a particular type of slave, right? It's not a servant like a butler or a waiter, -[3285.34 --> 3293.62] and it's also not a slave like in the chattel slave industry of stealing black or brown people from -[3293.62 --> 3302.42] their homes and forcing them into some sort of labor, right? A bond servant is someone who serves -[3302.42 --> 3312.10] and who gives themselves entirely into that service. In fact, throughout the Bible, and Paul, -[3312.10 --> 3319.68] you may know, is a Pharisee. He's a trained Pharisee. So, he knows the Old Testament backwards and forwards, -[3319.82 --> 3327.06] probably has much of it, if not all of it, memorized. He knows that Moses and David and Elijah -[3327.06 --> 3335.82] are all called servants of the Lord. And so, not only is Paul picking up on that tradition and the -[3335.82 --> 3340.18] authority that comes with it, because it's interesting, right? Moses, David, and Elijah, -[3340.40 --> 3347.58] Moses who represents the Torah, David who represents the kingship, and Elijah who represents the prophets, -[3347.58 --> 3352.60] not only is he picking up on the authority that comes with that tradition, but he's furthering it, -[3352.60 --> 3360.40] right? In the Old Testament, in each case that that phrase is used, servant or slave of the Lord, -[3360.98 --> 3367.06] it's used with the word LORD in all caps, if you're reading it in English, right? Which is the covenant -[3367.06 --> 3375.38] name of God, right? In Hebrew, it's Yahweh. It's the name that God gives himself in Exodus 3, the story of -[3375.38 --> 3384.78] the burning bush with Moses. Moses asks God's voice there and says, who shall I say is sending me? And God -[3384.78 --> 3398.00] says, Yahweh, Asher Yahweh. I am who I am. The I am is sending you. Now, Paul takes that bond servant of -[3398.00 --> 3410.84] the Lord title and he appends it to Jesus Christ, right? Paul, a bond servant of Jesus Christ. See, already -[3410.84 --> 3423.42] he is making a not-so-subtle theological claim about who Jesus is, right? Jesus is the I am taking on -[3423.42 --> 3432.40] flesh. And so, take that idea and then circle back with me. Paul wants to give the Christians in Rome -[3432.40 --> 3439.16] a gift that will make them strong, and that gift is the gospel of God. Remember, in verse 1, he says -[3439.16 --> 3444.50] that he is set apart for the gospel of God, and then in verse 15, he says, that's why I'm so eager to -[3444.50 --> 3449.50] preach the gospel. He says, that's why I'm so eager to preach the gospel. He says, that's why I'm so eager to -[3449.50 --> 3449.54] preach the gospel. He says, that's why I'm so eager to preach the gospel also to you who are in Rome. And now, -[3449.54 --> 3459.24] what we begin to see is the gospel is the truth of the person of Jesus Christ. And right there, -[3459.48 --> 3467.86] at this point, I want you to see something. Paul wants them to have a gift that will make them strong. -[3467.86 --> 3477.48] And he gives them the gospel. Now, that's really fascinating to me, because in my experience as -[3477.48 --> 3481.10] pastor, and I am privileged to have these sorts of conversations with people all the time, -[3481.46 --> 3488.42] all too often, as Christians, we think of the gospel and of believing the gospel as the thing, -[3488.56 --> 3495.50] or the doctrine, or the gift that gets us into Christianity, right? That makes us Christian. -[3495.50 --> 3502.14] But then, we have this internal shift that takes place, whereby to live as a Christian, -[3502.52 --> 3508.00] we have to move on from the gospel. We have to have some other ideas, or we have to move to obedience, -[3508.26 --> 3514.60] or to something more, right? We think that the gospel gets us in something else, and if I'm honest with -[3514.60 --> 3519.40] you, that is usually ourselves, something about ourselves, something else makes you strong. -[3519.40 --> 3527.36] But that's not Paul's point. Yes, the gospel gets you in. That is to say, believing the gospel is the -[3527.36 --> 3533.12] first outward sign that you are, in fact, a Christian. But Paul's point over and over and over -[3533.12 --> 3541.14] again throughout this entire letter is that the gospel makes you strong. That's Paul's aim in this -[3541.14 --> 3547.62] letter, and that's what will be our aim in this entire series, to get you to understand the depths -[3547.62 --> 3556.60] of the gospel, and then to experience the gospel in the everyday stuff of life, right? Paul teaches us -[3556.60 --> 3565.52] deep doctrine precisely because it is wrong doctrine that keeps us slaves to fear. It is unbelief, -[3565.52 --> 3571.72] or wrong faith that keeps us sinning, or in sin, is the language that Paul will use. -[3573.34 --> 3580.08] Okay, let's look at it. In Romans 14, I think we have that one for the screen, we do. In Romans 14, -[3580.14 --> 3593.84] verse 23, Paul says, everything that does not come from faith is sin. Now, part of what that means -[3593.84 --> 3608.32] is that anything good that you do that isn't done from faith is actually not good. At least not good in -[3608.32 --> 3616.68] the fullest sense of the word, right? Any good done apart from true faith isn't actually good. It's -[3616.68 --> 3625.56] stained with sin. Now, some of you are going to hear me say that, and you don't like it, and you're going to want to -[3625.56 --> 3636.46] disagree. And with all humility, your disagreement isn't with me, it's with the Bible. Now, you might want to say, -[3636.68 --> 3643.78] surely my unbelieving friend does something good, right? Isn't it good when a non-Christian gives to the poor? -[3643.78 --> 3652.08] Isn't it good when my atheist neighbor shovels my driveway after a snowstorm? And again, you don't have -[3652.08 --> 3658.64] to reckon with me as much as you have to reckon with the Bible, right? If you want to call that good, -[3659.02 --> 3664.24] how do you understand what Paul says when he writes, everything that does not come from faith -[3664.24 --> 3670.90] is sin? Or in Romans 3, right, and we'll look at these in detail throughout. Romans 3, he says, -[3670.90 --> 3675.40] there is no one righteous, not even one. And again, you might hear that and say, ah, but he says -[3675.40 --> 3682.46] righteous there. Righteous is like super good. And so maybe no one does super good, but surely they do -[3682.46 --> 3689.00] good. Well, okay, yes, he does say that, but righteous doesn't mean super good, but we can get into that -[3689.00 --> 3697.08] later. He does go on, though. He says that there is no one who does good, not even one. -[3697.08 --> 3707.56] In chapter 7, right, Paul takes this reality and he refers to it as a sinful nature, right? Where in -[3707.56 --> 3713.34] people, as people, we are slaves. There's that word again, right? Remember, we said it was someone -[3713.34 --> 3719.32] who gives themselves entirely, completely over to the object. He says that we are slaves to sin. -[3719.32 --> 3727.28] You might remember the words of Jesus. In John 8, Jesus says, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. -[3728.70 --> 3734.34] Now, what Paul is talking about in these verses, and the point that we're setting up here in contrast, -[3734.98 --> 3741.36] is the doctrine of depravity. It's the part of the doctrine of sin. If you want the fancy word, -[3741.48 --> 3747.86] it's hamartiology. It's the doctrine of sin, right? Paul looks into this in depth later, and so will we -[3747.86 --> 3754.30] in the series, but the point in bringing it up now is because it relates to the idea that the gospel -[3754.30 --> 3763.84] is not just the way into faith, but it is the fuel of faith, right? The gospel makes you strong in faith -[3763.84 --> 3772.64] because apart from God, we can't do good, right? We need the gospel to do good. That's why this is so -[3772.64 --> 3778.56] important, right? To believe the gospel, we need to know it, and to know it, we need to hear it, and then -[3778.56 --> 3788.04] knowing and hearing it, we need to live it, but, and here's what I need you to hear, right? What then is -[3788.04 --> 3798.32] the gospel, right? If the gospel is the way in and the way of faith, what is it? -[3798.32 --> 3809.62] Because sometimes we make the gospel a sense or a feeling we have, right? Sometimes we think that -[3809.62 --> 3820.12] faith is first a feeling, particularly a feeling of joy or of conviction, and then when that happens, -[3820.44 --> 3827.08] right, when it happens that we don't feel joy or we don't feel conviction, if instead we feel doubt -[3827.08 --> 3834.80] in uncertainty, we think, oh, maybe I don't have faith, right? If I believed, I wouldn't feel this way, -[3835.06 --> 3841.16] but I feel this way, so maybe I don't really believe, maybe I don't really know the gospel. -[3843.06 --> 3850.68] Or to put it another way, what is the relationship between faith and the gospel? And then where does, -[3850.68 --> 3859.36] or how does obedience come into play in all of this? And so like Paul is eager to preach to those -[3859.36 --> 3868.04] in Rome, I am eager for us to see all of this, right? And so first, Paul says that the gospel is of -[3868.04 --> 3874.64] God. And as I read that, it becomes a question of grammar, it's a question of genitive, right? What does -[3874.64 --> 3880.54] that word of mean? Does it mean that it belongs to God or it's about God or it's from God? -[3882.52 --> 3890.72] So let me, if the gospel is something that belongs to God, that means it's kind of a thing, -[3891.98 --> 3898.70] right? But the gospel isn't a thing, and yet when we link it or equate the gospel with a feeling or a -[3898.70 --> 3904.44] conviction, like we've just talked about, that we can lose, right? We are giving or we are assuming a -[3904.44 --> 3912.64] sort of, forgive the made-up word, a thingness to the gospel. But the gospel isn't something you hold. -[3914.50 --> 3921.22] And so as we wrestle here, maybe it's helpful to talk about what the word gospel actually means. -[3921.96 --> 3927.58] Gospel in Greek is euangeloi, and it literally means good herald. -[3928.70 --> 3936.62] Now in the time of Jesus and Paul, if on a faraway battlefield, the emperor won a great victory -[3936.62 --> 3944.22] and brought peace and secured his authority to a new place, he would send out heralds, -[3944.62 --> 3953.68] engeloi, to declare his victory and peace. So put simply, the gospel is a declaration -[3953.68 --> 3962.42] and announcement. It is news of a victory declared. And that distinction matters because, -[3962.92 --> 3973.66] hear this, the gospel is not advice. The gospel is not a list of rules. It is news. It is the good news -[3973.66 --> 3983.64] of God declaring his victory. It is a declaration from God about his son, right? What does Paul say? -[3983.70 --> 3990.96] The gospel of God, which he promised in the prophets and the holy scriptures regarding his son. -[3991.98 --> 3998.64] The gospel is the good news from God about his son. And so a couple of things about this. One, -[3998.64 --> 4010.48] the gospel is good news from God. It's of God. That means we don't get to make it up. We don't get -[4010.48 --> 4018.84] to craft it. We don't get to change it. It's God's. He defines it. And yet, since the beginning of -[4018.84 --> 4025.46] Christian history, people have been trying to redefine the gospel, trying to make it about health and -[4025.46 --> 4032.82] prosperity in this life for right now, trying to make it about loving my neighbor and being generally -[4032.82 --> 4038.86] ambiguously good, trying to make it about some secret escape plan or secret route to power. -[4039.36 --> 4046.80] But the gospel is God's. We don't get to change it. All that's left to us is to accept it and accept -[4046.80 --> 4054.28] the truths that are consequent with it, like the truth of depravity and being slaves to sin. -[4054.28 --> 4059.92] But apart from the work of faith in the gospel and the regeneration that precedes it all, -[4065.92 --> 4074.62] in 1 Corinthians 1.23, Paul says that the gospel is a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to -[4074.62 --> 4081.26] the Greeks. In 1 Corinthians 1.18, he says, the message of the cross is foolishness to those -[4081.26 --> 4090.68] who are perishing. And so, I think it's important for us to hear that it's okay if the gospel that we -[4090.68 --> 4098.56] proclaim here on Sunday, day after day, week after week, sounds ludicrous and weird to those who don't -[4098.56 --> 4109.14] yet believe. But if the gospel we proclaim is palatable, we've changed it. We've made it into something -[4109.14 --> 4120.32] it's not. The gospel is the good news from God about his son. The gospel is about a person, -[4120.78 --> 4130.80] not just an idea. It's about a person, not a concept or a doctrine. It's about him and not us. The gospel -[4130.80 --> 4141.44] of Jesus is fundamentally a message about not about our lives, our dreams, or our hopes. It is a message -[4141.44 --> 4148.48] that transforms our lives, our dreams, and our hopes, but only because it's actually not about us. -[4149.02 --> 4153.48] It's a declaration of who God's son is. Look with me at verse 3. -[4153.48 --> 4165.24] Paul says, regarding his son, who as to his earthly life was a descendant of David. Literally there it -[4165.24 --> 4180.46] says, in his flesh. That is, he took on flesh as a descendant of David. He is fully human. And then, -[4180.46 --> 4185.80] Paul continues, by the spirit of holiness, or another way to translate that is, by the Holy Spirit -[4185.80 --> 4192.76] appointed the Son of God in power by the resurrection. Now, that doesn't mean that he -[4192.76 --> 4199.74] became the Son of God because of the resurrection. It means because he is the Son of God, he was -[4199.74 --> 4207.12] resurrected and exalted to a place of power. Remember two things about Jesus' story. At his baptism, -[4207.12 --> 4213.60] when the heavens opened up and the Holy Spirit descended like a dove as John was baptizing him, -[4214.50 --> 4222.56] anointing him with God's Spirit, God's voice said, this is my Son whom I love. And then likewise, -[4222.76 --> 4230.26] after his resurrection, Jesus said, all authority, all power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. -[4230.26 --> 4237.14] All right, in Philippians 2, this idea is carried forward in Jesus being exalted to the highest place. -[4238.26 --> 4246.76] The point is, the gospel is about God's Son who took on flesh, the incarnation, and it's about his life -[4246.76 --> 4252.94] as a descendant of David doing what David couldn't. It's about his death and his resurrection, and it's about -[4252.94 --> 4259.22] his exaltation and his ascension. Every one of those aspects Paul will dig into in this letter. -[4259.22 --> 4271.18] And so who is this Son of God? The name comes to us at the end of verse 4. Jesus Christ, -[4271.72 --> 4284.98] our Lord. Jesus Christ is the gift. More specifically, the gospel about Jesus Christ is the spiritual gift -[4284.98 --> 4293.54] that will make you strong. And so are you struggling with doubt? Remember the gospel, right? Where Jesus -[4293.54 --> 4303.82] is God's Son taken on flesh. It happened in history. It is real. And here's the point, right? That your -[4303.82 --> 4313.60] ability to reconcile that truth in your mind, your ability to accept it, doesn't change the fact that -[4313.60 --> 4321.86] it's true. Even if you don't believe it, it still happened. It's still history. He is and he did. -[4323.28 --> 4331.80] Are you struggling with obedience or disobedience, right? Remember the gospel where Jesus' obedience is -[4331.80 --> 4340.44] the source of your righteousness, right? You don't earn God's grace. You don't keep God's favor by your -[4340.44 --> 4347.06] obedience, right? If you did either of those things, neither would be grace. And if it's not grace, -[4347.50 --> 4356.70] it's not the gospel. Maybe you're struggling with a lack of control in your life. Again, Paul says, -[4356.82 --> 4364.54] remember the gospel, right? Even the chaos and the brokenness of sin in the world isn't enough to break -[4364.54 --> 4372.58] God's grasp on history, right? God, what did we read? Promised beforehand through his prophets -[4372.58 --> 4380.60] in the holy scriptures, right? That isn't just a good guess by some people, right? God's promise -[4380.60 --> 4385.08] means it will come to pass. His sovereign will makes it happen. -[4385.08 --> 4393.40] Almost every week in our worship together, you will hear me summarize and state the gospel -[4393.40 --> 4399.76] in a very similar, if not exactly the same way. You will hear me say something along the lines of, -[4399.82 --> 4405.52] the truth is, you are more sinful than you would ever dare admit, and yet you are more loved than you -[4405.52 --> 4413.06] could ever imagine possible. And out of that love, God sent his son, Jesus Christ, into the world, -[4413.06 --> 4419.10] taking on flesh to live the life I should have lived and to die the death that I deserve. -[4420.28 --> 4429.22] And his righteous life and his sacrificial death is an atoning sacrifice for us. And three days later, -[4429.34 --> 4434.90] he was raised victorious over sin and death, and he has ascended to the right hand of God, -[4434.98 --> 4441.52] the Father Almighty. That's the gospel that we return to over and over and over again. -[4441.52 --> 4452.10] And on and on we could go. And in this series, we will. It is about the gospel from first to last, -[4452.34 --> 4461.02] all roads leading out of Romans, how the truth of the gospel applies to the everyday stuff of life. -[4461.02 --> 4470.94] When we get the gospel right, that's when we start getting life as a Christian right. -[4470.94 --> 4483.66] Now this is where I'll end for this morning. We've been looking at verse 11. Verse 11 feeds right into -[4483.66 --> 4490.24] verse 12. I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gifts to make you strong. -[4490.58 --> 4496.76] That is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith. -[4496.76 --> 4505.36] Not only did Paul want to encourage the faith of the church in Rome, but he also needed his faith -[4505.36 --> 4512.54] encouraged by them. And can I just say that if Paul needed his faith encouraged, right, -[4512.62 --> 4520.60] Paul, who was used of God to grow the church in incredible ways throughout the then majority world, -[4520.60 --> 4527.46] right, if Paul, who was used of God to form vast portions, almost the entirety of the New Testament -[4527.46 --> 4535.40] canon, if Paul, who literally met the resurrected Jesus on the road to Damascus, if Paul needed his -[4535.40 --> 4540.70] faith encouraged by a community of believers, how much more so do you and I? -[4540.70 --> 4550.70] That's part of what happens each week when we gather together here, right? We gather together in -[4550.70 --> 4557.22] worship, when we gather around the word, when we sing songs of praise, when we relive the experience of -[4557.22 --> 4564.42] God coming to us and offering grace and forgiveness. And when we go from this place empowered by the Holy -[4564.42 --> 4570.82] Spirit, right, we do not go alone. We go mutually encouraged. We go together. -[4572.90 --> 4578.18] Do not scorn the gift of brothers and sisters in faith. -[4580.10 --> 4582.10] You are my encouragement. -[4583.46 --> 4585.06] I pray I can be yours. -[4585.86 --> 4587.94] You are each other's encouragement. -[4587.94 --> 4592.58] I pray you take advantage of God's gift to you. -[4594.10 --> 4596.10] Because, may I just say, -[4596.90 --> 4599.06] that if the current -[4599.06 --> 4602.50] sort of cultural trajectory holds true, -[4602.94 --> 4605.98] that is, if the trajectory that we seem to be on -[4605.98 --> 4609.06] right now as a society here in the Western world, -[4609.50 --> 4612.04] it is only going to get more difficult -[4612.04 --> 4613.82] to be Christian. -[4613.82 --> 4613.90] Christian. -[4615.42 --> 4621.10] People are going to increasingly criticize us for being ludicrous and offensive, -[4621.98 --> 4625.18] for being backwards or on the wrong side of history. -[4626.86 --> 4629.66] I think we know that. Some of you have experienced that. -[4631.02 --> 4639.26] What will matter is that we are part of a group of believers who are enduring the same thing together, -[4639.26 --> 4645.90] so that we might persevere together in the midst of these kinds of trials that we all share. -[4646.46 --> 4651.26] Because no matter what the world out there might say about us or about Christians or about Jesus, -[4651.26 --> 4653.26] time and time and time again, -[4653.26 --> 4656.46] we come back to the gospel of God, -[4656.46 --> 4659.82] the good news about Jesus, his son. -[4659.82 --> 4662.78] That is how we persevere. -[4663.90 --> 4667.66] More than that, that is how we are preserved for him. -[4667.66 --> 4671.42] Now in just a moment, -[4672.62 --> 4675.58] that is what will happen for us at the table. -[4676.70 --> 4686.86] We gather at this table so that the grace of God offered in the word might be confirmed for us in the supper. -[4686.86 --> 4695.90] So that the good news of Jesus that's offered here in the word is offered here at the table. -[4696.94 --> 4700.70] So that we might taste and see that the Lord is good. -[4701.90 --> 4708.78] Jesus himself gave us this meal so that we might remember and believe. -[4708.78 --> 4716.78] When we drink, we remember that his blood was poured out for many. -[4717.50 --> 4721.82] His blood was poured out for the forgiveness of our sins. -[4722.30 --> 4728.06] When we eat, we might believe that he was raised victorious over sin and death. -[4728.06 --> 4729.02] And that's what we're going to do. -[4729.02 --> 4739.82] Right here at this table, the good gift of God is offered in the real spiritual presence of Christ as we come. -[4741.18 --> 4747.02] As we come to this table as a church family formed by God himself, -[4747.02 --> 4755.34] we come to receive God himself in Jesus Christ. -[4756.94 --> 4761.74] Now as we go through this table and come together to it, there will be a bit of a litany, -[4762.30 --> 4764.86] a portion that I will speak and a portion that you will speak. -[4764.86 --> 4766.54] I encourage you to speak those words. -[4766.54 --> 4768.54] They'll be on the screen behind me in yellow. -[4768.54 --> 4778.30] So, as you approach the table, come mindful of the fact that it is Jesus himself who you receive here. -[4779.50 --> 4788.14] And it is Jesus' church, the bride of Christ with whom you receive him here. -[4788.94 --> 4794.30] The grace of God made real, touchable, tangible, tasteable, -[4794.30 --> 4800.14] so that you might see the goodness of the gospel. -[4803.74 --> 4807.58] As we come to this table, I'm mindful that some of you might want prayer. -[4808.46 --> 4814.14] There are going to be people at the back with tags on, yellow tags that are there to pray with you. -[4814.78 --> 4817.90] Either before you come to the table or in place of coming to the table, -[4818.14 --> 4821.98] they will be available at the back and I encourage you to go there. -[4821.98 --> 4823.98] Let us pray. -[4823.98 --> 4826.22] We come to the table of our Lord. -[4827.42 --> 4829.80] Lift up your hearts to the Lord. -[4833.82 --> 4836.30] Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. -[4840.86 --> 4841.50] Let's pray. -[4843.98 --> 4847.42] With joy, we praise you, gracious God. -[4847.42 --> 4848.42] Amen. -[4848.42 --> 4853.68] For you have created heaven and earth, made us in your image, and kept covenant with us, -[4853.80 --> 4856.18] even when we fell into sin. -[4857.18 --> 4862.28] We give you thanks for Jesus Christ, who by his life, death, and resurrection, -[4862.60 --> 4866.46] opened to us the way of everlasting life. -[4867.58 --> 4868.14] Amen. -[4868.14 --> 4879.98] The Lord Jesus, before he suffered, gave us this memorial of his sacrifice until he comes again. -[4880.86 --> 4885.02] The Lord Jesus, on the night when he was betrayed, he took bread, -[4885.34 --> 4889.06] and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, -[4889.20 --> 4892.50] this is my body, which is for you. -[4893.14 --> 4895.98] Do this in remembrance of me. -[4895.98 --> 4907.10] In the same way, he took the cup after the supper and said, -[4907.64 --> 4910.32] this cup is the new covenant in my blood. -[4910.76 --> 4913.02] Do this in remembrance of me. -[4914.26 --> 4918.12] For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, -[4918.24 --> 4921.38] you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes. -[4921.38 --> 4921.50] Amen. -[4925.98 --> 4939.88] This is the mystery of our faith. -[4939.88 --> 4963.98] Church family, the Lord has prepared his table for all who love him and trust in him alone for their salvation. -[4963.98 --> 4968.14] And so, as we have said throughout this entire service, -[4968.30 --> 4974.56] come to this table, you who have much faith and you who would like to have more. -[4975.32 --> 4982.22] Come to this table, you who have been to this sacrament often and you who have not been in a long time. -[4982.76 --> 4986.10] You who have tried to follow Jesus and you who have failed. -[4986.58 --> 4991.62] Come to this table because Jesus Christ is raised. -[4991.62 --> 5002.38] Come, if you are here or if you are at home and online, come because it is Christ who invites us to meet him here. -[5003.16 --> 5006.88] The gifts of God for the people of God. -[5006.88 --> 5018.14] As we come to this table, we are going to come in groups sent forward by ushers who will be in the aisles and then we will serve one another. -[5018.14 --> 5023.90] As you receive the tray of bread and you pass it to the person beside you, -[5024.04 --> 5025.34] we invite you to say, -[5025.34 --> 5027.80] the body of Christ given for you. -[5028.46 --> 5033.02] And then as you receive the tray of juice and pass it to the person beside you, -[5033.02 --> 5036.78] we invite you to say, the blood of Christ shed for you. -[5037.36 --> 5040.34] We will move through in groups in this way. -[5040.56 --> 5048.06] First, I would like to invite the worship team and the people at the back of house who are helping us -[5048.06 --> 5054.88] and the elders to come forward that we might serve them and then they will lead us through this time with some music. -[5054.88 --> 5055.12] Thank you. -[5055.12 --> 5055.14] Thank you. -[5055.14 --> 5055.16] Thank you. -[5055.16 --> 5055.18] Thank you. -[5084.88 --> 5114.86] Thank you. -[5114.88 --> 5144.86] Thank you. -[5144.88 --> 5174.86] Thank you. -[5174.88 --> 5175.88] Thank you. -[5175.88 --> 5181.88] Thank you. -[5181.88 --> 5187.88] Thank you. -[5187.88 --> 5217.86] Thank you. -[5217.88 --> 5229.26] If you are unable to make your way to the front but would like to participate, please -[5229.26 --> 5235.20] just indicate that to the elders who are ushering and they will serve you in your seat. -[5247.88 --> 5254.88] Thank you. -[5254.88 --> 5261.88] Thank you. -[5261.88 --> 5263.88] Thank you. -[5263.88 --> 5264.88] Thank you. -[5264.88 --> 5265.88] Thank you. -[5265.88 --> 5266.88] Thank you. -[5266.88 --> 5270.88] Thank you. -[5270.88 --> 5271.88] Thank you. -[5271.88 --> 5272.88] Thank you. -[5272.88 --> 5273.88] Thank you. -[5273.88 --> 5274.88] Thank you. -[5274.88 --> 5275.88] Thank you. -[5275.88 --> 5276.88] Thank you. -[5276.88 --> 5277.88] Thank you. -[5277.88 --> 5278.88] Thank you. -[5278.88 --> 5279.88] Thank you. -[5279.88 --> 5280.88] Thank you. -[5280.88 --> 5285.34] from the Father's side, -[5286.04 --> 5290.62] the Son of God forsaken, -[5290.62 --> 5296.74] the Holy Sacrifice. -[5297.32 --> 5301.70] For me he was forsaken, -[5302.92 --> 5307.74] for me he died alone. -[5307.74 --> 5312.84] I sin forever taken, -[5312.84 --> 5318.40] that I might be his own. -[5320.48 --> 5326.40] The Holy Land was taken, -[5327.40 --> 5332.00] abandoned at the Lord. -[5332.90 --> 5337.34] He bore the world's affliction, -[5337.74 --> 5342.74] he bore it as his own. -[5343.98 --> 5348.34] For me he was forsaken, -[5349.34 --> 5353.74] for me he died alone. -[5355.08 --> 5359.48] My sin forever taken, -[5359.48 --> 5364.48] glad I might be his own. -[5364.48 --> 5372.48] And when my heart is broken, -[5372.48 --> 5378.48] torn by my sin and pride, -[5378.48 --> 5383.48] the Son of God now risen, -[5384.48 --> 5388.08] will draw me to his side. -[5388.08 --> 5394.08] For me he was forsaken, -[5394.08 --> 5399.08] for me he died alone. -[5399.08 --> 5405.08] My sin forever taken, -[5405.08 --> 5406.08] my sin forever taken, -[5406.08 --> 5410.08] that I might be his own. -[5410.08 --> 5416.08] For me he was forsaken, -[5416.08 --> 5421.08] for me he died alone. -[5421.08 --> 5423.08] For me he died alone. -[5423.08 --> 5427.08] my sin forever taken, -[5427.08 --> 5432.08] that I might be his own. -[5432.08 --> 5433.08] and I must go away alone. -[5433.14 --> 5435.14] For me he died alone. -[5435.22 --> 5437.08] For me he died alone. -[5437.08 --> 5437.44] My such as a good person, -[5437.48 --> 5438.52] I my person forever made me alone. -[5438.68 --> 5440.08] I must be alive alone there. -[5440.08 --> 5441.08] He even though Stephen, -[5441.08 --> 5441.78] i believe him втор别2, -[5441.78 --> 5443.00] have他 destroyed his side. -[5443.08 --> 5445.08] I was looking at your good life for me, -[5445.08 --> 5445.68] that I was used to be someised MALE. -[5445.68 --> 5475.66] How deep the Father's love for us -[5475.68 --> 5481.68] How vast beyond all measure -[5481.68 --> 5489.46] That he should give his only Son -[5489.46 --> 5495.98] To make a wretch his treasure -[5495.98 --> 5504.18] How great the pain of stealing loss -[5504.18 --> 5510.88] The Father turns his face away -[5510.88 --> 5517.94] As wounds which bore the Chosen One -[5517.94 --> 5524.36] Bring many sons to glory -[5534.18 --> 5543.72] Behold the man upon a cross -[5543.72 --> 5549.88] My sin upon his shoulders -[5549.88 --> 5557.78] Ashamed I hear my walking voice -[5557.78 --> 5564.78] Call out among the scoffers -[5564.78 --> 5571.48] It was my sin that held him bare -[5571.48 --> 5577.48] Until it was accomplished -[5577.48 --> 5585.32] His dying breath has brought me life -[5585.32 --> 5591.22] I know that it is hidden -[5591.22 --> 5609.66] I will not boast in anything -[5609.66 --> 5616.48] No gifts, no power, no wisdom -[5616.48 --> 5624.48] But I will boast in Jesus Christ -[5624.48 --> 5630.04] His death and resurrection -[5630.04 --> 5637.74] Why should I gain from his free home -[5637.74 --> 5643.86] I cannot give an answer -[5643.86 --> 5651.86] But this I know with all my heart -[5651.86 --> 5657.68] His wounds have paid my ransom -[5657.68 --> 5658.56] His wounds have paid my ransom -[5658.56 --> 5665.56] Why should I gain from his reward -[5665.56 --> 5672.56] I cannot give an answer -[5672.56 --> 5681.26] But this I know with all my heart -[5681.26 --> 5688.26] His wounds have paid my ransom -[5688.26 --> 5690.16] For this I know with all my Pape -[5690.16 --> 5691.00] O Lord -[5691.00 --> 5697.08] His wounds have paid my梅 -[5697.08 --> 5699.96] Amongaked -[5699.96 --> 5701.16] I not чист his wounds -[5701.16 --> 5703.96] My das is hidden -[5703.96 --> 5705.96] Sometimes I know that it is evil -[5705.96 --> 5707.76] But this I know with all my heart -[5707.76 --> 5708.54] I know with you -[5708.54 --> 5708.96] Why should I gain from his sole -[5708.96 --> 5709.46] About a LA -[5709.46 --> 5710.82] For -[5710.82 --> 5711.10] op -[5711.10 --> 5711.46] I love you -[5711.46 --> 5712.06] I want you -[5712.06 --> 5713.06] But this I know with you -[5713.06 --> 5713.82] I know with you -[5713.82 --> 5714.96] Everything came from it -[5714.96 --> 5734.90] My Lord, what love is this -[5734.90 --> 5742.04] That pays so dearly -[5742.04 --> 5749.70] That I'm a guilty one -[5749.70 --> 5755.90] They go free -[5755.90 --> 5762.90] Amazing love, oh, what sacrifice -[5762.90 --> 5769.90] The Son of God, given for me -[5770.48 --> 5777.84] My daddy pays and my daddy dies -[5777.84 --> 5783.90] That I, I live -[5783.90 --> 5791.90] That I, I live -[5791.90 --> 5802.90] And so they watched him die -[5802.90 --> 5808.34] Despite, rejected -[5808.34 --> 5816.34] But all the blood he shed -[5816.34 --> 5821.34] God's glory -[5821.34 --> 5829.34] Amazing love, what sacrifice -[5829.34 --> 5836.34] The Son of God, given for me -[5836.34 --> 5844.34] My daddy pays and my daddy dies -[5844.34 --> 5850.34] That I, I live -[5850.34 --> 5858.34] That I, I live -[5858.34 --> 5868.34] And now, this love of Christ -[5868.34 --> 5876.34] Shall flow like rivers -[5876.34 --> 5883.34] God wash your guilt away -[5883.34 --> 5884.34] Live, I live -[5884.34 --> 5889.34] Live again -[5889.34 --> 5897.34] Amazing love, what sacrifice -[5897.34 --> 5904.34] The Son of God, given for me -[5904.34 --> 5905.34] The Son of God, given for me -[5905.34 --> 5910.34] My daddy pays and my daddy dies -[5910.34 --> 5916.34] That I, I live -[5916.34 --> 5920.34] That I, I live -[5920.34 --> 5926.34] I, I live -[5926.34 --> 5930.34] I, I live -[5930.34 --> 5940.34] I live -[5940.34 --> 5941.34] I live -[5941.34 --> 5942.34] I live -[5942.34 --> 5944.34] I live -[5944.34 --> 5946.34] Amen. -[5974.34 --> 5989.50] I love you, Lord, and I lift my voice to worship you. -[5989.50 --> 5994.98] Oh, my soul, rejoice. -[5995.50 --> 6004.04] Take joy, my King, in what you lead. -[6004.34 --> 6013.78] May it be a sweet, sweet sound in your ear. -[6016.36 --> 6032.76] I love you, Lord, and I lift my voice to worship you. -[6032.76 --> 6037.76] Oh, my soul, rejoice. -[6039.34 --> 6048.76] Take joy, my King, in what you hear. -[6048.76 --> 6058.76] May it be a sweet, sweet sound in your ear. -[6058.76 --> 6068.76] May it be a sweet, sweet sound in your ear. -[6068.76 --> 6082.76] May it be a sweet, sweet sound in your ear. -[6082.76 --> 6084.76] I love you, Lord. -[6084.76 --> 6088.76] I love you, Lord. -[6088.76 --> 6090.76] I love you, Lord. -[6090.76 --> 6094.76] I love you, Lord. -[6094.76 --> 6096.76] I love you, Lord. -[6096.76 --> 6100.76] I love you, Lord. -[6100.76 --> 6102.76] I love you, Lord. -[6102.76 --> 6104.76] I love you, Lord. -[6104.76 --> 6106.76] I love you, Lord. -[6106.76 --> 6108.76] I love you, Lord. -[6108.76 --> 6110.76] I love you, Lord. -[6110.76 --> 6112.76] I love you, Lord. -[6112.76 --> 6114.76] I love you, Lord. -[6114.76 --> 6116.76] I love you, Lord. -[6116.76 --> 6118.76] I love you, Lord. -[6118.76 --> 6120.76] I love you, Lord. -[6120.76 --> 6128.76] I love you, Lord. -[6128.76 --> 6129.76] I love you, Lord. -[6129.76 --> 6131.76] I love you, Lord. -[6131.76 --> 6133.76] I -[6133.76 --> 6135.76] I -[6135.76 --> 6137.76] I -[6137.76 --> 6139.76] I -[6139.76 --> 6141.76] I -[6141.76 --> 6143.76] I -[6143.76 --> 6145.76] I -[6145.76 --> 6147.76] I -[6147.76 --> 6151.76] I -[6151.76 --> 6153.76] I -[6153.76 --> 6155.76] I -[6155.76 --> 6157.76] I -[6157.76 --> 6159.76] I -[6159.76 --> 6163.76] I -[6163.76 --> 6165.76] I -[6165.76 --> 6167.76] I -[6167.76 --> 6169.76] O -[6169.76 --> 6171.76] Lord -[6171.76 --> 6173.76] I -[6173.76 --> 6175.76] I -[6175.76 --> 6177.76] I -[6177.76 --> 6179.76] I -[6179.76 --> 6181.76] I -[6181.76 --> 6183.76] I -[6183.76 --> 6185.76] I -[6185.76 --> 6187.76] I -[6187.76 --> 6188.00] I -[6188.00 --> 6189.76] I -[6189.76 --> 6209.56] Thank you for saving me. -[6209.56 --> 6215.68] What can I say? -[6215.68 --> 6221.12] You are my everything. -[6222.56 --> 6228.44] I will sing your praise. -[6228.90 --> 6234.26] You shed your blood for me. -[6234.26 --> 6239.42] What can I say? -[6239.42 --> 6245.42] You took my sin and shame. -[6246.86 --> 6251.42] A sinner called by name. -[6255.42 --> 6263.30] Great is the Lord. -[6263.30 --> 6276.44] Great is the Lord. -[6276.44 --> 6285.88] For we know your truth has set us free. -[6288.88 --> 6297.44] You set your hope in me. -[6297.44 --> 6299.44] Thank you. -[6299.44 --> 6303.44] Thank you. -[6303.44 --> 6307.56] Gracie and grace are mine. -[6307.56 --> 6313.00] Forgiven is my sin. -[6313.00 --> 6319.12] Jesus, my holy hope. -[6319.12 --> 6324.24] Savior of the world. -[6325.60 --> 6330.70] Great is the Lord we cry. -[6331.38 --> 6334.68] Let your kingdom cry. -[6337.06 --> 6341.88] Your word has let me see. -[6341.88 --> 6346.88] Thank you for saving me. -[6346.88 --> 6359.10] Great is the Lord. -[6359.10 --> 6369.20] Great is the Lord. -[6369.20 --> 6380.20] For we know your truth has set us free. -[6380.20 --> 6391.20] You set your hope in me. -[6391.20 --> 6401.20] Thank you for saving me. -[6401.20 --> 6406.20] What can I say? -[6406.20 --> 6407.20] Thank you for saving me. -[6407.20 --> 6408.20] What can I say? -[6408.20 --> 6410.20] Thank you for saving me. -[6410.20 --> 6412.20] What can I say? -[6412.20 --> 6414.54] Wha- -[6414.54 --> 6418.20] very sad man -[6418.20 --> 6419.20] These hospitals are... -[6419.50 --> 6422.20] We're gonna be here. -[6422.20 --> 6424.20] Being great. -[6424.20 --> 6425.40] We're gonna be saving me realmente. -[6425.88 --> 6427.36] There's people there at the Native Church. -[6427.42 --> 6429.82] Woah- -[6429.82 --> 6432.00] Be better. -[6432.48 --> 6434.68] Lord Christ, -[6435.06 --> 6435.38] Really. -[6435.60 --> 6437.68] Father Lord, -[6437.68 --> 6439.68] Amen. -[6467.68 --> 6475.60] The wondrous cross -[6475.60 --> 6486.80] On which the Prince of Glory died -[6486.80 --> 6491.36] Thy riches gained -[6491.36 --> 6497.74] I count but loss -[6497.74 --> 6502.60] And for contempt -[6502.60 --> 6509.54] All my pride -[6509.54 --> 6516.28] Forbid it, Lord -[6516.28 --> 6522.66] That I should boast -[6522.66 --> 6533.66] Saving the death of Christ my God -[6533.66 --> 6538.60] All the vain things -[6538.60 --> 6545.14] That shroud me most -[6545.14 --> 6550.80] I sacrifice them -[6550.80 --> 6555.52] Through His blood -[6555.52 --> 6563.84] See from His head -[6563.84 --> 6570.52] His hands, His feet -[6570.52 --> 6575.60] Sorrow and love -[6575.60 --> 6581.98] Flamingled down -[6581.98 --> 6587.02] Did e'er such love -[6587.02 --> 6593.68] And sorrow meet -[6593.68 --> 6597.34] For thorns compose -[6597.34 --> 6603.72] For so rich a crown -[6603.72 --> 6607.38] O the wondrous cross -[6607.38 --> 6611.80] O the wondrous cross -[6611.80 --> 6617.14] O the wondrous cross -[6617.14 --> 6619.64] O the wondrous cross -[6619.64 --> 6621.44] O the wondrous cross -[6621.44 --> 6625.80] O the wondrous cross -[6625.80 --> 6633.28] Oh, the wonderful cross -[6633.28 --> 6638.60] Oh, the wonderful cross -[6638.60 --> 6642.44] All in heaven here -[6642.44 --> 6645.20] By grace, come here -[6645.20 --> 6648.52] Bless your name -[6648.52 --> 6655.64] Were the whole realm -[6655.64 --> 6662.00] Of nature mine -[6662.00 --> 6667.56] That were a present -[6667.56 --> 6673.48] But too small -[6673.48 --> 6678.52] Love so amazing -[6678.52 --> 6683.32] So divine -[6683.32 --> 6689.40] Demons my soul -[6689.40 --> 6695.74] I, life, fight on -[6703.48 --> 6712.28] As you go from this place -[6712.28 --> 6716.70] Into whatever this next week has for you -[6716.70 --> 6719.04] Remember the gospel -[6719.04 --> 6724.58] Remember that God came into this world for you -[6724.58 --> 6729.00] And now he goes with you as you go -[6729.00 --> 6732.50] Please feel free to stick around after service for fellowship -[6732.50 --> 6734.42] We have coffee and the like -[6734.42 --> 6737.08] If you have questions about our church -[6737.08 --> 6739.00] And who we are -[6739.00 --> 6741.20] There's connect cards in your seats -[6741.20 --> 6742.86] We encourage you to fill one of those out -[6742.86 --> 6745.82] Also, I'm going to post up at the connect booth -[6745.82 --> 6747.16] After service -[6747.16 --> 6748.46] And so you can grab me there -[6748.46 --> 6751.76] If you want to ask questions or interact in that way -[6751.76 --> 6755.22] As you go, receive the blessing of God -[6755.22 --> 6759.04] The Lord bless you -[6759.04 --> 6760.64] And keep you -[6760.64 --> 6763.40] The Lord make his face to shine upon you -[6763.40 --> 6765.80] And be gracious to you -[6765.80 --> 6769.26] The Lord turn his face towards you -[6769.26 --> 6772.62] And give you his peace -[6772.62 --> 6774.56] Amen -[6774.56 --> 6777.82] avatim -[6777.82 --> 6780.34] cód금 -[6780.34 --> 6782.92] Akira -[6782.92 --> 6812.90] guitar solo -[6812.92 --> 6817.48] Thanks to the Lord our God and King -[6817.48 --> 6820.76] His love and just forever -[6820.76 --> 6826.40] For He is good, He is above all things -[6826.40 --> 6829.68] His love and just forever -[6829.68 --> 6838.72] Sing praise, sing praise -[6838.72 --> 6844.20] With a mighty hand and a stretched star -[6844.20 --> 6847.56] His love and just forever -[6847.56 --> 6853.08] For a life that's been reborn -[6853.08 --> 6856.72] His love and just forever -[6856.72 --> 6864.20] Sing praise, sing praise -[6864.20 --> 6873.72] Sing praise, sing praise -[6873.72 --> 6878.60] Forever God is faithful -[6878.60 --> 6883.36] Forever God is strong -[6883.36 --> 6888.16] Forever God is with us -[6888.16 --> 6889.60] Forever -[6889.60 --> 6893.72] Forever -[6893.72 --> 6899.20] God is with us -[6899.20 --> 6901.82] The setting sun -[6901.82 --> 6905.28] His love and just forever -[6905.28 --> 6908.76] By the grace of God -[6908.76 --> 6910.92] He will carry on -[6910.92 --> 6913.72] His love and just forever -[6913.72 --> 6921.72] Sing praise, sing praise -[6921.72 --> 6927.20] Sing praise, sing praise -[6927.20 --> 6930.60] Sing praise -[6930.60 --> 6932.72] Sing praise -[6932.72 --> 6933.10] Sing praise -[6933.10 --> 6937.20] Forever God is with God -[6937.20 --> 6941.12] Forever God is strong -[6941.12 --> 6947.56] Forever God is with us, forever. -[6950.04 --> 6958.90] Forever you are faithful, forever you are strong. -[6958.90 --> 6965.44] Forever you are with us, forever. -[6968.08 --> 6969.40] Forever. -[6971.12 --> 6974.20] Forever you are to out. -[6974.20 --> 6976.86] Forever you are with us, forever. -[6978.54 --> 6984.82] Forever you are through. -[6984.82 --> 6995.64] Forever you are through. -[6995.64 --> 7025.62] guitar solo -[7025.64 --> 7055.62] guitar solo -[7055.64 --> 7085.62] guitar solo diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 10, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 10, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 49289ca426a0402befce4a0167777bc1bfce3bb1..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 10, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,65 +0,0 @@ -• Prayer led by Glenn, an elder at Emanuel Church -• Acknowledgment of God's dominion over all creation -• Expression of gratitude for Christ Jesus and his life, death, and resurrection -• Thanking God for the local church community and its members -• Request for unity in purpose among church members -• Asking for guidance and wisdom for new elders and deacons -• Prayers for Kids Camp and its leaders -• Blessing for Ellen White's healing from her wrist injury -• Update on Harry Bauman's surgery and recovery -• Prayers for strained relationships, forgiveness, and grief -• Condolences for victims of mass shootings in Chicago and Victoria -• Support for law enforcement personnel and Ukraine -• Request for wisdom for Western Europe leaders and a withdrawal of Russian forces from Ukraine -• Prayers for those on vacation and gratitude for work opportunities -• Introduction to summer preaching series on parables of Jesus, starting with Matthew 13 -• The book "Stories with Intent" by Klein Snodgrass will be used as a resource for studying the parables of Jesus -• Parables are categorized into different types, such as those dealing with lostness, eschatology, money, prayer, and Israel -• The reason Jesus taught in parables is explored, including the idea that it may not be as simple as previous thought -• Two ways people think: propositional thinkers (logic and order) and narrative thinkers (stories and images) -• Parables are intentionally used to confuse those who don't understand, making a theological point through stories from everyday life -• Examples of different thinking styles are given, including the speaker's own children, Malachi and his daughter -• Jesus explains that parables are not just moral lessons, but rather reveal the secrets of the kingdom of heaven to those who understand. -• The true meaning of parables goes beyond surface-level moralism and requires a deeper understanding of the gospel. -• The parable of the Good Samaritan is often misunderstood as simply helping those in need, when its actual lesson is about how the kingdom of God transforms enemies into neighbors. -• Redemption is not just about individual actions, but about being part of a diverse body with Jesus as king. -• The kingdom of heaven has its own economy, which may seem foolish or confusing to outsiders. -• Jesus invites listeners to see past surface-level meanings and understand the deeper mysteries of his parables. -• The tense used in the kingdom parables is present tense, indicating current realities -• Jesus' message about the kingdom's arrival challenges traditional Jewish expectations of a powerful display of God's power and Israel's restoration -• Modern Christians often have similar expectations of what the kingdom should look like, including an absence of pain and evil -• A transactional Christian faith can arise from these expectations, where followers believe they deserve blessings based on their good behavior or lack of sin -• The consumeristic mindset of trying to bend God's will to one's own -• Coercive attempts to force God's hand through prayer or expectations -• Misplaced expectations of what the kingdom of God should look like -• The parable of Jesus in Matthew 13 as a response to these issues -• The lack of extraordinary evidence for the kingdom of God despite Jesus' miracles -• The limitations of human understanding and expectation vs. Jesus' actions -• The concept that even with miracles, it's not enough to overcome human skepticism -• The idea that Jesus is saying that unless one knows or sees him, the gospel won't make sense -• The gradual growth of the kingdom of God from humble beginnings into a global movement -• Stark's book "The Rise of Christianity" estimates around 1,000 Christians in 40 AD -• James Jeffers estimates 2.5 million Jews in Palestine at Jesus' time, making 0.04% become believers -• Christianity grew rapidly to 2 million in the Roman Empire by 200 AD and over 6 million by 300 AD -• The gospel is about Jesus living a life of perfect obedience, dying for sins, being raised from the dead, and ascending to God's right hand as king -• Gospel living is characterized by hope, expectation, rejoicing, and urgency in sharing the message with others -• Despite challenges, Christians have hope that God's mercies are new every morning and that Jesus has overcome the world -• The significance of the Lord's Supper as a memorial of Jesus' sacrifice -• Inviting all who love and trust in Christ to come to the table, regardless of their faith level or experience with the sacrament -• Instructions for coming forward to receive communion, including passing elements from person to person -• An invitation for the worship team to lead music during the service -• The body of Christ given for you -• Lord of Christ, shed for you -• Jesus brought heaven and silenced the boast of sin and grave -• The name of Jesus is a powerful and wonderful name above all names -• God reigns now and forever with no rival or equal -• Great is thy faithfulness, O God, my Father -• Praise and thanksgiving for God's faithfulness and mercies -• Reflection on Christ's sacrifice and resurrection, with references to acceptance, forgiveness, and new life -• Testimony of amazing love and worship as a response to Jesus' sacrifice -• Call to action and fellowship, including invitation to connect and participate in various activities and services -• Salvation and God's sovereignty -• Praise and glory to God -• Unity and purpose among the redeemed -• Worship and devotion to God -• Reiteration of "Amen" throughout the transcript \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 10, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 10, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index eb3c37b769aa3771d99bb1cfdd4c458316d37313..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 10, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,953 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 599.98] Thank you. -[600.00 --> 629.98] Thank you. -[630.00 --> 659.98] Thank you. -[659.98 --> 689.96] Thank you. -[690.00 --> 719.96] Thank you. -[719.96 --> 749.94] Thank you. -[749.96 --> 779.96] Thank you. -[779.96 --> 809.96] Thank you. -[809.96 --> 839.94] Thank you. -[839.96 --> 869.94] Thank you. -[869.96 --> 899.94] Thank you. -[899.96 --> 929.96] Thank you. -[929.96 --> 959.96] Thank you. -[959.96 --> 989.94] Thank you. -[989.96 --> 1019.94] Thank you. -[1019.96 --> 1049.94] Thank you. -[1049.96 --> 1079.94] Thank you. -[1079.96 --> 1109.94] Thank you. -[1109.96 --> 1139.94] Thank you. -[1139.96 --> 1169.94] Thank you. -[1169.96 --> 1199.94] Thank you. -[1199.94 --> 1229.94] Thank you. -[1229.94 --> 1259.92] Thank you. -[1259.94 --> 1289.92] Thank you. -[1289.94 --> 1319.92] Thank you. -[1319.94 --> 1349.92] Thank you. -[1349.94 --> 1379.92] Thank you. -[1379.94 --> 1409.92] Thank you. -[1409.94 --> 1439.92] Thank you. -[1439.94 --> 1469.92] Thank you. -[1469.94 --> 1499.92] Thank you. -[1499.94 --> 1529.92] Thank you. -[1529.94 --> 1559.92] Thank you. -[1559.94 --> 1589.92] Thank you. -[1589.94 --> 1619.92] Thank you. -[1619.94 --> 1649.92] Thank you. -[1649.94 --> 1679.92] Thank you. -[1679.94 --> 1709.92] Thank you. -[1709.94 --> 1739.92] Thank you. -[1739.94 --> 1769.92] Thank you. -[1769.94 --> 1799.92] Thank you. -[1799.94 --> 1829.92] Thank you. -[1829.92 --> 1859.90] Thank you. -[1859.92 --> 1889.90] Thank you. -[1889.92 --> 1919.90] Thank you. -[1919.90 --> 1949.88] Thank you. -[1949.90 --> 1979.88] Thank you. -[1979.90 --> 2009.88] Thank you. -[2009.90 --> 2039.88] Thank you. -[2039.90 --> 2069.88] Thank you. -[2069.90 --> 2099.88] Thank you. -[2099.90 --> 2129.88] Thank you. -[2129.90 --> 2159.88] All right. -[2159.90 --> 2189.90] So, -[2189.90 --> 2219.88] Thank you. -[2219.88 --> 2249.86] Thank you. -[2249.88 --> 2279.86] Thank you. -[2279.86 --> 2309.86] Thank you. -[2309.86 --> 2339.86] Thank you. -[2339.86 --> 2369.86] Thank you. -[2369.86 --> 2399.86] Thank you. -[2399.86 --> 2429.86] Thank you. -[2429.86 --> 2459.86] Thank you. -[2459.86 --> 2489.84] Thank you. -[2489.86 --> 2519.86] Thank you. -[2519.86 --> 2549.86] Thank you. -[2549.86 --> 2579.86] Thank you. -[2579.86 --> 2609.84] Thank you. -[2609.86 --> 2639.86] Thank you. -[2639.86 --> 2669.86] Thank you. -[2669.86 --> 2699.86] Thank you. -[2699.86 --> 2729.86] Thank you. -[2729.86 --> 2759.86] Thank you. -[2759.86 --> 2760.86] Thank you. -[2789.86 --> 2790.86] Thank you. -[2819.86 --> 2849.84] And so, -[2849.86 --> 2850.86] Thank you. -[2850.86 --> 2873.34] Good morning. -[2873.68 --> 2874.64] My name is Glenn. -[2874.74 --> 2879.88] I'm one of the elders here at Emanuel Church, and it's now my privilege to lead you in our -[2879.88 --> 2880.90] congregational prayer. -[2885.72 --> 2890.44] Father in heaven, we thank you for the opportunity to come to you in prayer this morning. -[2891.20 --> 2897.38] You are almighty God, creator of heaven and earth, and we acknowledge your dominion over -[2897.38 --> 2898.26] all creation. -[2899.08 --> 2900.20] You are holy. -[2901.10 --> 2904.34] Help us to revere your name in all that we say and do. -[2904.34 --> 2912.96] We thank you for Christ Jesus, whose life, death, and resurrection made us alive in him -[2912.96 --> 2917.70] even when we were dead in our sin and restored our relationship with you. -[2919.22 --> 2921.86] Your grace and mercy are utterly amazing. -[2922.64 --> 2927.70] We are not worthy of your love, and yet you call us your children and heirs. -[2928.68 --> 2931.10] Praise, glory, and honor to you, Lord. -[2931.10 --> 2935.12] Father, we thank you for this local church community. -[2936.12 --> 2937.74] Help us to be united in purpose. -[2938.94 --> 2943.24] We thank you for the gifts that you give your people and their willingness to use their gifts -[2943.24 --> 2946.66] to proclaim the gospel in so many different ways. -[2948.26 --> 2952.50] Thank you for providing new elders and deacons to serve in this community. -[2954.06 --> 2959.40] Grant them the presence of your Holy Spirit so that they will lead with wisdom and discernment. -[2959.40 --> 2965.54] Grant them love and compassion for those whom they serve in a pastoral role. -[2967.48 --> 2971.08] Father, we ask for your blessing on Kids Camp, which will begin this week. -[2971.92 --> 2974.42] Bless the leaders as they proclaim the gospel story. -[2975.28 --> 2977.08] And be near to all the children who participate. -[2978.18 --> 2981.08] Give that these children will deepen their relationship with you. -[2981.08 --> 2990.46] If there are children who hear about you for the first time, we ask that you draw them into a relationship with you through the work of your Holy Spirit. -[2992.10 --> 2996.72] This morning we ask that you be with Ellen White, who fractured her wrist. -[2997.78 --> 3003.86] Grant the medical professionals wisdom to prescribe treatment, which will give Ellen complete healing. -[3003.86 --> 3011.70] We thank you that Harry Bauman underwent successful surgery on his arms. -[3012.70 --> 3016.42] And we ask that you bless the further treatments that he will receive. -[3017.06 --> 3022.90] Lord, it's our prayer that his mobility will be completely restored through these treatments. -[3022.90 --> 3029.64] Bless those who struggle with strained relationships. -[3031.26 --> 3035.52] Grant those who have done wrong the humility to ask for forgiveness. -[3036.84 --> 3042.14] And grant those who have been wronged the grace to forgive and to find a way forward. -[3043.74 --> 3049.52] Be with those who grieve after losing loved ones, whether recently or some time ago. -[3049.52 --> 3055.98] Surround them with your presence when loneliness and a sense of loss sets in. -[3056.90 --> 3065.66] And help us as immediate family members and as church family members to comfort and care for those who grieve and experience loneliness. -[3068.46 --> 3074.92] This week we witness tragedy as the result of mass shootings in Chicago and in Victoria. -[3075.92 --> 3077.78] Comfort those who have lost loved ones. -[3077.78 --> 3080.72] Grant healing to those who have been injured. -[3082.20 --> 3087.76] We thank you for law enforcement personnel who put their lives on the line to keep the public safe. -[3088.84 --> 3093.06] And we pray that you watch over these people as they serve our communities. -[3097.40 --> 3100.34] We continue to lift up the people of the Ukraine to you. -[3101.28 --> 3104.52] Strengthen those who remain in the country to resist the invasion. -[3104.52 --> 3108.70] Watch over the millions of Ukrainians who have been displaced. -[3108.94 --> 3115.06] Equip the people and agencies who have taken in displaced people with all that they need. -[3115.88 --> 3120.96] Thank you for the hospitality which has been extended to these displaced people. -[3120.96 --> 3124.88] Comfort all who have lost loved ones this war. -[3125.98 --> 3134.86] We also ask that you grant wisdom to the leaders of Western Europe, NATO, as they consider how to respond to this aggression. -[3135.38 --> 3136.00] Give them wisdom. -[3136.00 --> 3137.36] We ask that you grant wisdom. -[3137.36 --> 3142.52] And we continue to ask for a withdrawal of Russian forces from the Ukraine. -[3144.06 --> 3147.04] And we ask for peace to return to this region. -[3147.04 --> 3149.04] We pray that you grant wisdom. -[3151.04 --> 3154.24] We pray that you watch over those in our church family who are on vacation. -[3155.12 --> 3159.10] We thank you for our work and for the opportunities that we have in this country. -[3159.74 --> 3162.50] We are also grateful for the opportunity to rest. -[3163.34 --> 3170.96] We ask that our times of rest will re-energize us and that they will also be times when we grow closer to you. -[3170.96 --> 3181.80] And now, Lord, as we turn to your word, we ask that you bless Pastor Chris with the presence of your spirit and speak your truth through him. -[3183.00 --> 3189.70] Give us ears which are eager to hear your truth and equip us to do your will as we begin this new week. -[3190.38 --> 3192.04] In Jesus' name, amen. -[3200.96 --> 3225.40] Today we are starting our summer preaching series as we will be looking at a bunch of parables of Jesus. -[3225.40 --> 3233.78] And so we are going to start that this morning with the parables of the mustard seed and of the yeast. -[3234.00 --> 3239.08] If you have a Bible in front of you, always I encourage you to open that up, have that with you, read along. -[3239.16 --> 3245.14] We are going to read Matthew 13, beginning at verse 31. -[3251.64 --> 3252.76] From Matthew 13. -[3255.40 --> 3258.58] Jesus told them another parable. -[3258.58 --> 3267.02] The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. -[3268.44 --> 3276.12] Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, -[3277.00 --> 3279.94] so that birds come and perch in its branches. -[3281.36 --> 3283.36] He told them still another parable. -[3283.36 --> 3292.50] The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into about 60 pounds of flour until it worked all through the dough. -[3294.70 --> 3298.10] Jesus spoke all these things to the crowd in parables. -[3298.60 --> 3301.24] He did not say anything to them without using a parable. -[3301.68 --> 3304.80] So was fulfilled what was spoken through the prophet. -[3304.80 --> 3311.88] I will open my mouth in parables and I will utter things hidden since the creation of the world. -[3312.98 --> 3314.28] This is the word of the Lord. -[3320.10 --> 3327.54] Now one of my favorite words in the, probably the whole of the English language, -[3327.68 --> 3331.20] one of my favorite words is obfuscation. -[3331.20 --> 3337.86] Because whenever I use it, I get that exact face. -[3338.12 --> 3338.58] Thank you. -[3340.30 --> 3340.52] Right? -[3340.60 --> 3344.74] People look at me and with their face or with their words or with their laughter, -[3344.88 --> 3345.16] they go, -[3345.54 --> 3347.16] What on earth does that mean? -[3348.02 --> 3351.14] That seems so unnecessarily confusing. -[3351.14 --> 3357.44] Now if you know the word obfuscation, it means unnecessarily confusing. -[3358.54 --> 3363.82] That's why I love the word, because the facial expression I get in response is the meaning of the word. -[3363.92 --> 3368.24] It means to make things less clear or to intentionally confuse. -[3369.28 --> 3377.12] I want to start in this confusion because we are jumping into a series on the parables of Jesus. -[3377.12 --> 3388.34] And throughout all the gospels, you will get about eight or nine different categories of parables. -[3389.20 --> 3396.28] Now I say that because I'm borrowing a breakdown or a categorization from a scholar named Klein Snodgrass, -[3396.40 --> 3399.70] who wrote a book on the parables of Jesus called Stories with Intent. -[3400.10 --> 3404.54] It is a pretty dense book, but it is a good one if you wanted a commentary on the parables. -[3404.54 --> 3412.26] Anyway, point is, each week what we are going to do is look at one of those different categories or types of parables -[3412.26 --> 3422.76] so we get the span or the scope of Jesus' messages given in parable on lostness or eschatology or money or prayer or Israel or kingdom, -[3423.16 --> 3424.06] whatever the case may be. -[3425.14 --> 3430.84] Now our first parable, as we read, is this parable of the mustard seed and of the yeast. -[3430.84 --> 3437.62] But before we dig too deep into that, I think it's important for us to start with the question, -[3438.28 --> 3440.56] why did Jesus teach in parables? -[3441.20 --> 3445.90] Matthew writes, he spoke all these things to the crowds in parables. -[3446.12 --> 3449.14] He did not say anything to them without using a parable. -[3450.08 --> 3453.08] And so, it's worth the question, why? -[3453.08 --> 3453.16] Why? -[3454.56 --> 3460.30] I want to suggest that the answer might not be as simple as you first thought. -[3461.68 --> 3469.12] Now I know that some of you here this morning are what's called propositional thinkers. -[3470.12 --> 3470.60] Right? -[3470.72 --> 3473.62] That is, you think in a very particular way. -[3473.80 --> 3478.08] And I know that some of you here this morning are what's called narrative thinkers. -[3478.64 --> 3479.52] So you think differently. -[3479.52 --> 3487.58] What I mean by that is some of you like logic and order, a syllogistic structure, a thesis statement, -[3487.86 --> 3492.80] and then three or seven or 37 arguments to support that thesis. -[3493.82 --> 3496.36] Others of you just want to hear a story. -[3497.54 --> 3497.72] Right? -[3497.76 --> 3501.38] You don't think in propositions or arguments in rebuttals or rejoinders. -[3501.46 --> 3503.60] You think in stories or images. -[3503.60 --> 3514.68] Whenever I have a discussion with my daughter, yes, you, who's nine going on 25, especially -[3514.68 --> 3515.82] if she wants something. -[3516.48 --> 3516.72] Right? -[3516.76 --> 3518.70] I can see it in her face. -[3519.76 --> 3519.94] Right? -[3520.20 --> 3525.28] You can, I can see it even as she closes her eyes and her eyes are moving around. -[3525.28 --> 3532.54] She is working out her arguments, thinking about the best way to make her argument and -[3532.54 --> 3538.74] to structure it, discerning how to articulate the illusion of compromise and choice, but -[3538.74 --> 3539.84] so that she still gets her way. -[3540.96 --> 3542.42] Do any of you else have kids like this? -[3544.12 --> 3544.36] Right? -[3544.44 --> 3547.58] She argues logically and it follows a very ordered set. -[3548.46 --> 3551.24] Now she comes by that honestly because my brain works the same way. -[3551.28 --> 3552.28] So it's only my fault. -[3552.38 --> 3553.96] I take full responsibility for that. -[3553.96 --> 3559.02] But Malachi, my son, on the other hand, right, he jumps all over the place. -[3559.10 --> 3560.84] Sometimes literally, if you know Malachi. -[3562.18 --> 3562.58] Right? -[3562.64 --> 3566.14] And we have to ask him to stand still so that we can focus on what he's saying. -[3566.72 --> 3572.46] And he will tell elaborate stories about the adventures that he's been on and how he needs -[3572.46 --> 3575.02] this or that thing in order to continue them. -[3575.06 --> 3577.48] It's usually a Nerf gun or a water gun of some sort. -[3578.60 --> 3578.82] Right? -[3578.82 --> 3583.40] And for Malachi, sometimes we just don't know the difference between his stories and real life. -[3583.96 --> 3589.72] And I think that's in part because of, that's just the frame through which he sees the world. -[3589.72 --> 3596.90] Now, one or the other is neither good nor bad, neither better nor worse. -[3597.20 --> 3601.02] They're just the ways that people engage and interact and think. -[3602.46 --> 3609.78] Parables are stories to make a theological point out of the world around us. -[3609.78 --> 3611.90] Let me say that again. -[3612.76 --> 3618.72] Parables are stories to make a theological point out of the world around us. -[3620.32 --> 3624.56] But, here's where we get to the part where it's not what you thought it was. -[3624.98 --> 3629.10] Parables are also an intentional obfuscation. -[3630.38 --> 3631.82] See how we came back to that word? -[3633.44 --> 3634.72] Let me show you where I get that. -[3634.72 --> 3641.86] If your Bibles are still open, let's look at an earlier part in this same chapter from Matthew 13. -[3642.66 --> 3644.84] In verse 10, we read, -[3644.84 --> 3671.68] And then he quotes, -[3671.68 --> 3683.98] In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah. -[3684.74 --> 3686.96] You will be ever hearing but never understanding. -[3687.14 --> 3688.94] You will be ever seeing but never perceiving. -[3689.52 --> 3691.66] For the people's heart has become calloused. -[3692.00 --> 3694.64] They hardly hear with their ears and their eyes. -[3695.12 --> 3696.64] And they have closed their eyes. -[3696.92 --> 3700.64] Otherwise, they might see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their hearts. -[3700.64 --> 3704.54] As it is, and I would turn and I would heal them. -[3705.60 --> 3711.80] But blessed are your eyes because they see and your ears because they hear. -[3713.68 --> 3715.38] Intentional obfuscation. -[3715.88 --> 3715.96] Right? -[3716.38 --> 3718.36] Those seeing, they do not see. -[3718.82 --> 3720.82] Hearing, they do not hear. -[3720.82 --> 3725.18] And so even though parables are stories to make a theological point, -[3725.56 --> 3730.40] They're also intended to confuse people who don't get it. -[3731.66 --> 3738.34] What Jesus is saying here is that if the story isn't for you, it won't make sense to you. -[3739.78 --> 3741.80] Jesus said in verse 11, -[3741.80 --> 3747.50] Because the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. -[3748.28 --> 3754.24] And so let me be really clear because this is so common in our trying to understand the parables. -[3754.66 --> 3754.74] Right? -[3754.92 --> 3761.58] Parables aren't just moralisms for the world to be full of, quote, good people. -[3762.32 --> 3762.82] Right? -[3762.82 --> 3766.88] Even if that's what our post-Christian culture reduces them to. -[3767.98 --> 3768.24] Right? -[3768.34 --> 3773.72] Like, so, for example, the lesson of the parable of the Good Samaritan, -[3773.86 --> 3776.80] Which is, like, probably one of the most famous parables there is. -[3776.84 --> 3776.94] Right? -[3776.96 --> 3781.48] There are Good Samaritan laws that exist or used to exist in some countries. -[3781.82 --> 3782.08] Right? -[3782.08 --> 3787.40] The lesson of the Good Samaritan parable isn't help people in need. -[3789.56 --> 3791.26] Because that's just the moralism. -[3792.52 --> 3797.50] The lesson is that the new creation, kingdom of God, reality, -[3797.98 --> 3805.28] Makes followers of Jesus from people who would be natural enemies and turns them into neighbors. -[3806.56 --> 3806.68] Right? -[3806.68 --> 3812.34] Redemption is a diverse body full of every tribe, nation, and tongue, -[3812.50 --> 3817.46] With Jesus as king on the throne of grace and on the throne of your heart. -[3818.12 --> 3818.72] Right? -[3818.74 --> 3822.46] It's about who you are, not just what you do. -[3826.74 --> 3828.90] And for those outside, -[3830.58 --> 3834.74] Gospel living is going to be confusing. -[3834.74 --> 3835.92] Right? -[3835.94 --> 3837.46] It's not going to make sense. -[3838.18 --> 3838.28] Right? -[3840.28 --> 3841.90] If you want to gain heaven, -[3843.14 --> 3843.98] Give up everything. -[3846.10 --> 3846.46] Right? -[3846.46 --> 3847.78] If you want to be first, -[3848.70 --> 3849.48] Come last. -[3850.34 --> 3851.78] If you want to be strong, -[3852.66 --> 3853.20] Be weak. -[3854.02 --> 3854.14] Right? -[3854.16 --> 3855.64] These are what Jesus says. -[3856.24 --> 3856.34] Right? -[3856.38 --> 3859.92] The poor in spirit receive the kingdom of heaven. -[3861.00 --> 3861.84] The meek. -[3863.32 --> 3864.24] The meek. -[3864.74 --> 3866.66] Inherit the earth. -[3869.76 --> 3873.20] The meek don't inherit anything in our society and culture. -[3873.56 --> 3874.74] But not according to Jesus. -[3874.86 --> 3874.96] Right? -[3875.08 --> 3878.00] That doesn't make sense to the world around us. -[3878.02 --> 3879.10] That doesn't add up. -[3880.40 --> 3881.08] Unless, -[3881.60 --> 3885.10] Unless you know Jesus. -[3886.14 --> 3886.64] Right? -[3886.68 --> 3889.40] The kingdom of heaven has its own economy. -[3889.40 --> 3896.12] And that economy looks like foolishness and is a stumbling block to those who are outside. -[3897.86 --> 3898.52] And maybe, -[3898.86 --> 3900.98] Where you are at right now, -[3901.08 --> 3903.46] Maybe all you see is that foolishness. -[3903.78 --> 3905.42] You look at this Christian thing and you go, -[3905.54 --> 3908.50] Yeah, that's just a bunch of crazy people who don't make sense. -[3909.08 --> 3910.46] Maybe none of this makes sense. -[3910.46 --> 3913.06] And if that's true for you or for the people in your life, -[3913.38 --> 3916.42] I want you to pray verse 16 with me. -[3917.24 --> 3917.38] Right? -[3917.48 --> 3921.02] Blessed are your eyes because they see and your ears because they hear. -[3921.02 --> 3921.54] Right? -[3921.68 --> 3927.88] Lord, give us eyes to see and ears to hear the beautiful mystery of the gospel -[3927.88 --> 3932.54] And to be compelled by the beautiful majesty of your kingdom. -[3932.96 --> 3933.16] Right? -[3933.22 --> 3934.68] This is our prayer. -[3936.36 --> 3936.86] Jesus says, -[3937.06 --> 3938.74] I will open my mouth in parables. -[3938.90 --> 3942.68] I will utter things hidden since the creation of the world. -[3942.84 --> 3946.10] And so this will be our challenge for us this summer. -[3946.80 --> 3950.42] How do we see past the surface meaning, -[3950.76 --> 3952.88] Usually the easy moralism, -[3953.24 --> 3953.42] Right? -[3953.42 --> 3958.82] To the deeper, more mysterious meaning that Jesus intends for his disciple. -[3959.56 --> 3960.66] Or to put it another way, -[3960.98 --> 3966.94] What is the uniquely Christian gospel identity forming meaning to each parable? -[3968.54 --> 3971.52] Now Jesus tells us that he speaks in parables -[3971.52 --> 3975.68] In order to illustrate that there are those who get it -[3975.68 --> 3978.50] And those who don't, who won't. -[3979.32 --> 3982.68] My prayer for us this summer is that we are among those who do. -[3983.42 --> 3989.78] And so now to the parable of the mustard seed and the yeast in bread. -[3990.56 --> 3991.98] Now from the very beginning, -[3992.68 --> 3999.56] Jesus tells us what sort of category these two parables belong to. -[3999.82 --> 3999.92] Right? -[3999.94 --> 4000.06] He says, -[4000.24 --> 4003.12] The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed. -[4003.22 --> 4005.82] The kingdom of heaven is like yeast. -[4006.26 --> 4006.40] Right? -[4006.42 --> 4009.28] These are what we'll call kingdom parables. -[4009.54 --> 4011.66] But notice, notice the tense. -[4011.66 --> 4012.26] Right? -[4012.34 --> 4013.90] So a little bit of grammar for you this morning. -[4014.02 --> 4015.90] Notice the tense that Jesus is using. -[4016.38 --> 4019.68] The kingdom of heaven is like. -[4020.74 --> 4021.84] Not will be. -[4022.82 --> 4023.02] Right? -[4023.06 --> 4025.06] It's present tense. -[4025.30 --> 4026.96] Not future tense. -[4027.26 --> 4027.34] Right? -[4027.40 --> 4032.68] These parables are about present, current, or concurrent realities. -[4032.88 --> 4036.86] Kingdom realities in the here and now because of Jesus coming. -[4036.86 --> 4043.48] If you have your Bibles open and you jump a couple pages forward, more than a couple, -[4043.60 --> 4045.38] to the beginning of the Gospel of Mark. -[4046.02 --> 4049.66] The beginning of the Gospel of Mark in verse 15. -[4049.92 --> 4054.68] These are the very first words that Jesus speaks in Mark's Gospel. -[4054.80 --> 4057.52] The very first thing that Jesus says in the Gospel of Mark, -[4057.52 --> 4059.16] The time has come. -[4059.92 --> 4062.50] The kingdom of God has come near. -[4063.28 --> 4065.90] Repent and believe the good news. -[4067.40 --> 4072.26] The kingdom of God has come near. -[4073.40 --> 4075.74] Jesus has started something. -[4076.82 --> 4080.20] Jesus coming means something new in the world. -[4080.20 --> 4085.46] I love the way that Klein Snodgrass summarizes it. -[4085.76 --> 4086.12] He says, -[4086.88 --> 4089.20] The end is already in the beginning. -[4091.00 --> 4093.18] The end is already in the beginning. -[4093.56 --> 4093.64] Right? -[4093.70 --> 4099.82] This parable is about reframing expectations of what the kingdom should be. -[4100.12 --> 4101.16] Of what it would be. -[4102.04 --> 4102.16] Right? -[4102.20 --> 4108.46] The disciples, and really, probably all of the contemporary Jews of Jesus' day, -[4108.46 --> 4112.06] would have said something along the lines of, -[4113.02 --> 4117.40] Isn't the kingdom of heaven supposed to be a big display of God's power? -[4118.12 --> 4118.24] Right? -[4118.28 --> 4122.44] Isn't Rome supposed to be cast off and Israel restored? -[4122.82 --> 4125.18] Shouldn't this new Babylon be destroyed? -[4125.78 --> 4129.10] Aren't we supposed to have, you know, the prophet Malachi says, -[4129.24 --> 4133.42] storehouses overflowing and milk and honey pouring down? -[4133.42 --> 4134.02] Right? -[4136.02 --> 4140.66] That's the question of this new kingdom economy. -[4141.84 --> 4142.00] Right? -[4142.48 --> 4147.64] If that was the expectation, what they saw was something vastly different. -[4148.50 --> 4148.64] Right? -[4148.68 --> 4156.48] How on earth, or even how in heaven, is a bunch of ragtag misfits and a rabbi from Nazareth? -[4156.60 --> 4161.38] You remember the words, the question, can anything good come from Nazareth? -[4161.38 --> 4161.88] Right? -[4161.88 --> 4162.60] Right? -[4162.66 --> 4166.06] How is this ragtag bunch of misfits and this rabbi from Nazareth, -[4166.26 --> 4170.48] how are they heralding this kingdom of heaven? -[4171.26 --> 4171.38] Right? -[4171.38 --> 4173.46] The people expected great things. -[4173.80 --> 4175.52] They expected wars and destruction. -[4175.96 --> 4179.62] They expected a new king in the line of David on the throne in Jerusalem. -[4179.62 --> 4183.36] And what they got was an itinerant preacher who ended up on a cross. -[4185.30 --> 4191.58] Now, in our culture, right, we have similar, if not exactly the same, expectations. -[4192.16 --> 4196.64] And really, let's be clear here, not just outside of the church, right, we are affected, -[4196.86 --> 4198.46] or maybe infected is the better word. -[4198.70 --> 4200.70] We are affected by it too. -[4200.70 --> 4209.08] How many times have you heard it said, right, if your God was real, why would there be pain in the world? -[4210.28 --> 4213.94] If your God was real, why is there still evil in the world? -[4214.12 --> 4217.04] If your God is good, why is there still suffering? -[4219.28 --> 4219.42] Right? -[4219.50 --> 4226.10] The idea being that if the kingdom of God was real, if God was real, if the kingdom was really present, -[4226.46 --> 4227.88] wouldn't it all be all good? -[4227.88 --> 4227.92] Right? -[4229.82 --> 4233.42] And like I said, there's a Christian version of this too. -[4234.58 --> 4234.78] Right? -[4234.80 --> 4241.70] Not one that necessarily denies the existence of God, but does something different, changes our relationship to God. -[4241.94 --> 4242.10] Right? -[4242.18 --> 4247.92] Sometimes, we believe, and we may never say it, but we functionally act this way. -[4248.18 --> 4248.38] Right? -[4248.40 --> 4255.18] We believe that because we have done everything right, or we have tried, at least, to do everything right, -[4255.18 --> 4257.86] we've checked the right boxes, we've gone to church, -[4257.88 --> 4261.56] we've participated in a Bible study, we had Lord's Supper. -[4262.44 --> 4262.80] Right? -[4262.88 --> 4265.62] That we haven't sinned, or at least, we haven't sinned that bad. -[4266.08 --> 4266.24] Right? -[4266.26 --> 4267.64] Not as bad as that person anyway. -[4268.60 --> 4268.80] Right? -[4268.84 --> 4271.26] Because that's true, shouldn't I get this? -[4271.56 --> 4273.16] Don't I deserve this, God? -[4274.32 --> 4276.04] Can't you bless me with this? -[4277.50 --> 4277.70] Right? -[4277.70 --> 4285.18] So, we create this kind of like transactional Christian faith that isn't only ultimately consumeristic, -[4285.48 --> 4287.46] it's coercive. -[4288.82 --> 4289.34] Right? -[4289.34 --> 4296.08] Believing that you can bend God to your will rather than being bent to the will of God in your heart. -[4297.62 --> 4302.84] I think both of these, the ones that deny God or the ones that try to coerce God, -[4303.02 --> 4308.74] are modern versions of the old world problem that Jesus is addressing in this parable. -[4309.02 --> 4309.18] Right? -[4309.18 --> 4313.92] It's a problem of expectation, or a problem of misplaced expectations. -[4316.38 --> 4327.68] Carl Sagan famously said, he's an astronomer and deeply atheist person, at least at this point in his life. -[4327.68 --> 4333.76] He famously said, extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence. -[4335.46 --> 4339.98] And so, where is the extraordinary evidence of the kingdom of God being at hand? -[4344.92 --> 4345.72] Right? -[4345.72 --> 4359.90] Now, one of the amazing things about this parable is that Matthew, as he structures his gospel, -[4360.18 --> 4364.42] as he has written it, by the time that he gets to chapter 13, right, -[4364.46 --> 4368.82] we've already seen Jesus do some pretty extraordinary miracles. -[4369.20 --> 4371.04] You can flip back through the pages to see it. -[4371.32 --> 4373.50] Jesus has already raised a dead girl. -[4374.24 --> 4374.72] Right? -[4374.72 --> 4376.28] He's already healed a sick woman. -[4376.74 --> 4378.60] He's already healed a paralyzed man. -[4378.66 --> 4381.90] He's already cast out demons from two possessed men. -[4381.90 --> 4382.34] Right? -[4382.40 --> 4387.20] He's already stood on the waves in the storm on the Sea of Galilee and said, -[4387.38 --> 4389.76] be calm, be still, and stopped it. -[4390.46 --> 4393.62] Jesus has already worked all of these incredible miracles, -[4394.06 --> 4398.94] but that wasn't enough evidence for the truth of the kingdom come and the kingdom coming. -[4399.98 --> 4400.10] Right? -[4400.10 --> 4400.88] Think about that. -[4401.12 --> 4401.24] Right? -[4401.30 --> 4404.44] Stories of the dead being raised, of storms being calmed, -[4404.44 --> 4411.34] of demons being cast out, aren't enough to overcome the foolishness and the stumbling block nature of the gospel. -[4411.62 --> 4411.94] Right? -[4411.98 --> 4414.10] People are still looking at Jesus and going, nope. -[4414.82 --> 4416.00] That doesn't make sense. -[4416.00 --> 4419.54] The same is true today. -[4419.54 --> 4420.02] Right? -[4420.02 --> 4423.06] People have talked to me before and they said, -[4424.06 --> 4427.94] Pastor, I don't understand why God didn't heal this person. -[4429.16 --> 4429.36] Right? -[4429.36 --> 4439.50] We heard a story from someone who was at a camp and there was a girl there who had terminal illness and the whole group of people prayed over her. -[4439.98 --> 4446.26] And they all left utterly convicted and convinced that God was going to heal her and give her new life. -[4446.66 --> 4447.80] Three weeks later, she died. -[4447.80 --> 4450.42] And he said to me, -[4450.42 --> 4453.52] Pastor, why didn't God heal that little girl? -[4454.96 --> 4457.82] Or think about the amazing things that would have happened if God healed her. -[4458.26 --> 4459.94] All of those people there would have believed. -[4460.34 --> 4462.86] How could they not believe seeing God work so powerfully? -[4462.86 --> 4467.56] The testimony of the New Testament is exactly the opposite. -[4468.20 --> 4469.14] That it's just not enough. -[4469.50 --> 4472.54] No matter how many miracles you see, it's just not enough. -[4472.62 --> 4477.48] Because our expectations of what Jesus is doing are vastly different than what Jesus is doing. -[4477.56 --> 4479.22] We think we know what he ought to do. -[4479.54 --> 4481.08] Jesus does what must be done. -[4484.22 --> 4485.26] Jesus is saying, -[4486.26 --> 4488.40] it doesn't make sense. -[4490.28 --> 4490.72] Unless, -[4490.72 --> 4493.26] unless you know me. -[4494.52 --> 4495.78] Unless you see me. -[4497.06 --> 4497.88] Jesus is saying, -[4498.12 --> 4500.36] from such small beginnings. -[4500.88 --> 4503.96] This ragtag bunch of misfits and a rabbi from Nazareth. -[4504.10 --> 4508.20] Such small beginnings come great and impossible things. -[4508.52 --> 4511.72] Jesus is ushering in the beginning of the kingdom. -[4511.94 --> 4514.22] Not with a loud bang or clashing armies. -[4514.58 --> 4516.20] Not with milk and honey flowing. -[4516.36 --> 4518.16] But with an almost unnoticed, -[4518.16 --> 4519.96] in fact, it was missed by most. -[4520.46 --> 4522.44] Presence of God. -[4523.86 --> 4526.72] The end is already present in the beginning. -[4527.18 --> 4531.04] History is changed by his word and work. -[4531.16 --> 4534.06] The kingdom is already here and it will not be stopped. -[4534.40 --> 4540.28] What started as a mustard seed grows into a large tree that is big enough for birds to live in. -[4540.28 --> 4543.66] What started with an almost imperceptible truth. -[4543.66 --> 4547.00] Like yeast mixed into 60 pounds of dough. -[4547.20 --> 4548.58] You can't even see it. -[4549.28 --> 4551.50] But its effect is profound. -[4551.50 --> 4555.52] And to be really clear. -[4557.20 --> 4560.54] This is exactly what happened. -[4561.20 --> 4563.50] This is exactly what happened in history. -[4563.66 --> 4563.72] Right? -[4563.80 --> 4567.58] This ragtag bunch of misfits and this rabbi from Nazareth started a movement. -[4567.92 --> 4570.42] And that movement was called The Way at first. -[4570.52 --> 4572.48] But later it became called Christianity. -[4573.04 --> 4577.56] And that grew and is growing exponentially around the world. -[4577.56 --> 4582.74] Rodney Stark has a book called The Rise of Christianity. -[4583.24 --> 4585.58] He estimates that in 40 AD. -[4586.56 --> 4586.74] Right? -[4586.84 --> 4590.36] After around 40 AD. -[4590.56 --> 4591.66] So numbers are loose here. -[4591.82 --> 4591.94] Right? -[4592.00 --> 4594.52] There are approximately a thousand Christians. -[4595.84 --> 4598.44] Now all of these Christians would be Palestinian Jews. -[4599.12 --> 4601.28] And so there's another scholar, James Jeffers. -[4601.28 --> 4607.68] He estimates that there are 2.5 million Jews who lived in Palestine at the time of Jesus. -[4607.98 --> 4613.48] That means that 0.04% became believers. -[4614.60 --> 4616.58] That's a micro demographic. -[4616.80 --> 4621.74] Like that's barely registered on any Canadian census data. -[4622.74 --> 4629.24] And yet by 200 AD there are 2 million in the Roman Empire. -[4629.24 --> 4636.04] By 300 AD there's over 6 million Christians throughout the empire. -[4636.18 --> 4637.40] Throughout the known world. -[4638.10 --> 4641.68] That's what a mustard seed movement looks like. -[4643.98 --> 4645.48] The gospel is this. -[4647.00 --> 4649.50] That Jesus came and lived the life I should have lived. -[4649.58 --> 4651.94] That Jesus died the death that I deserve. -[4652.08 --> 4657.32] That Jesus came and lived the life of perfect obedience for all who would believe. -[4657.32 --> 4663.96] And he died the death of the wrath of God for sins for all who would be called by grace through faith. -[4664.32 --> 4669.26] And though he died he was raised 3 days later victorious now over sin and death. -[4669.40 --> 4675.86] And though he died being raised 3 days later 40 days after that he ascended to the right hand of God the Father. -[4676.06 --> 4679.90] Where he sits on the throne as king of the universe. -[4679.90 --> 4683.06] Where he has been given the name that is above every name. -[4683.06 --> 4686.82] The gospel is Jesus is king. -[4687.06 --> 4690.88] And the gospel is the kingdom come and the kingdom coming. -[4691.24 --> 4694.58] The gospel is from such humble beginnings. -[4695.08 --> 4701.58] And becomes the very greatness and glory of God revealed to the world. -[4701.58 --> 4717.56] And so gospel living is you and me full of hope and expectation and rejoicing and urgency at the truth of this message. -[4718.02 --> 4718.26] Right? -[4718.32 --> 4720.20] That we all might know and see. -[4720.32 --> 4722.20] That we all might hear and understand. -[4722.36 --> 4724.42] No matter how dark the night gets. -[4724.74 --> 4725.88] We have hope. -[4725.88 --> 4727.96] Right? -[4728.00 --> 4731.26] We have hope that his mercies are new every morning. -[4731.78 --> 4733.92] No matter how hard life gets. -[4734.06 --> 4737.92] We have hope that God is greater than all of our challenges. -[4738.72 --> 4740.88] Yes in this world you will have trouble. -[4741.18 --> 4744.12] But we know and believe that Jesus has overcome the world. -[4744.48 --> 4744.58] Right? -[4744.66 --> 4747.90] Even when it looks like the powers and principalities. -[4747.90 --> 4752.04] When it looks like the emperors and the empires of the world are winning. -[4752.30 --> 4757.42] We know that God has already won the victory in Jesus Christ our Lord. -[4757.48 --> 4757.68] Amen? -[4757.68 --> 4757.82] Amen? -[4759.82 --> 4761.14] And so maybe. -[4762.64 --> 4763.84] Just maybe. -[4764.80 --> 4769.18] This post-Christian world that we are increasingly finding ourselves in. -[4769.44 --> 4772.86] Is exactly what the church needs. -[4773.00 --> 4777.40] For this mustard seed faith to come to new fruition. -[4777.90 --> 4789.34] Parable of the mustard seed and of yeast. -[4789.34 --> 4795.32] Is a story to make a theological point out of the world around us. -[4796.82 --> 4803.92] To identify us as a people of hope. -[4803.92 --> 4807.20] And so no matter where you go. -[4807.34 --> 4809.14] No matter what you face. -[4809.88 --> 4814.94] Know that God himself goes with you. -[4815.74 --> 4819.44] That the kingdom of God has come. -[4821.30 --> 4824.64] May it come in our hearts more and more. -[4824.86 --> 4828.26] And may it come in fullness in the return of Jesus Christ. -[4828.80 --> 4830.62] Soon and very soon. -[4831.14 --> 4831.90] Let's pray together. -[4831.90 --> 4841.78] Holy God. -[4841.84 --> 4842.40] Heavenly Father. -[4842.40 --> 4848.36] May we have eyes to see and ears to hear your kingdom come and coming today. -[4848.56 --> 4853.04] Grant us hope in this dark night. -[4853.04 --> 4858.62] Grant us faith in the midst of our doubts. -[4861.14 --> 4865.46] Grant us rejoicing alongside of our mourning. -[4867.82 --> 4872.68] Grant us holiness out of our brokenness. -[4872.68 --> 4876.24] Lord Jesus. -[4876.24 --> 4878.30] Grant us yourself. -[4878.92 --> 4879.48] Today. -[4880.78 --> 4882.56] That we might be found in you. -[4882.70 --> 4885.86] And that we this week might go with you. -[4886.24 --> 4886.82] To the world. -[4887.54 --> 4889.96] To proclaim your kingdom come and your kingdom coming. -[4890.40 --> 4893.04] To proclaim Jesus Christ alone. -[4893.62 --> 4894.34] As Lord. -[4895.00 --> 4895.66] And God. -[4895.66 --> 4897.22] In his name we pray. -[4897.98 --> 4898.36] Amen. -[4902.36 --> 4904.36] For that journey of faith. -[4904.70 --> 4907.08] That we are about to embark on. -[4907.22 --> 4908.20] Or continue in. -[4909.02 --> 4910.52] God grants us. -[4910.76 --> 4912.08] This meal of grace. -[4912.52 --> 4914.54] That we might come to his table. -[4915.40 --> 4916.72] Be found by him. -[4917.10 --> 4917.52] Here. -[4918.04 --> 4919.74] And that we might be strengthened. -[4919.74 --> 4921.10] And nourished. -[4921.42 --> 4922.72] For this journey of faith. -[4924.10 --> 4925.06] Jesus Christ. -[4925.20 --> 4926.60] Before he suffered. -[4927.36 --> 4928.92] Gave us this memorial. -[4928.92 --> 4930.86] Of his sacrifice. -[4931.56 --> 4932.86] Until he comes again. -[4933.78 --> 4934.66] And the Lord Jesus. -[4935.00 --> 4936.64] On the night that he was betrayed. -[4936.88 --> 4937.60] Took bread. -[4937.60 --> 4939.82] And when he had given thanks. -[4940.00 --> 4940.76] He broke it. -[4940.90 --> 4941.16] And said. -[4941.48 --> 4942.64] This is my body. -[4942.88 --> 4944.06] Which is for you. -[4945.42 --> 4946.14] Do this. -[4946.52 --> 4947.18] In remembrance. -[4947.96 --> 4948.40] Of me. -[4949.74 --> 4951.02] And in the same way. -[4951.20 --> 4952.14] After supper. -[4952.34 --> 4953.22] He took the cup. -[4953.34 --> 4953.62] Saying. -[4954.20 --> 4954.90] This cup. -[4955.16 --> 4956.16] Is the new covenant. -[4956.76 --> 4957.56] In my blood. -[4958.48 --> 4959.20] Do this. -[4959.38 --> 4960.04] In remembrance. -[4960.72 --> 4961.24] Of me. -[4962.30 --> 4964.00] For whenever we eat this bread. -[4964.12 --> 4965.34] And drink this cup. -[4965.44 --> 4966.14] We proclaim. -[4966.28 --> 4967.12] The Lord's death. -[4967.48 --> 4968.86] Until he comes again. -[4969.98 --> 4970.58] This. -[4970.84 --> 4972.04] Is the mystery. -[4972.70 --> 4973.60] Of our faith. -[4976.70 --> 4977.62] Your death. -[4977.84 --> 4978.42] Oh Christ. -[4978.62 --> 4979.30] We proclaim. -[4979.74 --> 4981.10] Your resurrection. -[4981.62 --> 4982.12] We affirm. -[4982.26 --> 4982.78] With joy. -[4983.72 --> 4984.40] Your coming. -[4984.74 --> 4985.20] We wait. -[4985.32 --> 4985.84] With hope. -[4986.70 --> 4988.10] Glory be to you. -[4988.22 --> 4988.90] Lord Jesus. -[4991.04 --> 4991.94] Church family. -[4992.06 --> 4993.06] The Lord has prepared. -[4993.06 --> 4993.94] His table. -[4994.14 --> 4995.30] For all who love him. -[4995.38 --> 4996.72] And who trust in him. -[4996.98 --> 4997.50] Alone. -[4997.66 --> 4998.64] For their salvation. -[4999.72 --> 5000.20] And so. -[5000.46 --> 5001.56] Come to this table. -[5001.78 --> 5003.82] You who have much faith. -[5003.96 --> 5006.32] And you who would like to have more. -[5006.80 --> 5007.66] Come to this table. -[5007.66 --> 5009.74] You who have been to this sacrament often. -[5009.88 --> 5012.62] And you who have not been for a long time. -[5012.78 --> 5014.54] You who have tried to follow Jesus. -[5014.78 --> 5016.04] And you who have failed. -[5016.20 --> 5017.60] Come to this table. -[5017.86 --> 5020.70] Because Jesus is king. -[5022.28 --> 5023.36] Come to this table. -[5023.40 --> 5024.92] If you are here present with us. -[5024.98 --> 5027.80] Or if you are participating this morning online. -[5028.60 --> 5028.92] Come. -[5028.92 --> 5031.84] It is Christ who invites us. -[5032.04 --> 5033.42] It is Christ himself. -[5033.84 --> 5035.32] Who we meet here. -[5036.44 --> 5038.56] These are the gifts of God. -[5038.92 --> 5040.80] For the people of God. -[5042.34 --> 5044.14] As we come to the table this morning. -[5045.18 --> 5047.12] We're going to gather up at the front. -[5047.32 --> 5048.52] Around the table. -[5049.16 --> 5051.50] The elders will be here present to help serve. -[5051.72 --> 5052.38] And there will be. -[5052.46 --> 5054.34] I think deacons in the aisles. -[5054.34 --> 5058.10] Usher's who will tell you when your time to come to the front is. -[5058.90 --> 5060.24] As you come to the front. -[5060.48 --> 5063.34] I will pass the tray to my left and to my right. -[5063.40 --> 5065.20] And the elders will start in the opposite direction. -[5065.48 --> 5067.76] As you pass the elements to the person beside you. -[5067.84 --> 5068.90] We invite you to say. -[5069.08 --> 5070.88] The body of Christ given for you. -[5071.06 --> 5073.38] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[5074.02 --> 5075.64] As you pass each element. -[5075.86 --> 5077.74] The first group who is going to come to the front. -[5077.82 --> 5078.74] Is the worship team. -[5079.48 --> 5080.62] And those at the back. -[5080.62 --> 5082.86] And then they will lead us with music. -[5083.08 --> 5085.14] Through the rest of our time together. -[5085.24 --> 5087.08] So I'm going to invite the worship team. -[5087.40 --> 5088.28] To come up to the front. -[5089.50 --> 5090.16] And those who. -[5091.80 --> 5092.20] Yeah. -[5092.30 --> 5092.70] Very good. -[5110.62 --> 5112.44] If you are unable to come to the front. -[5112.68 --> 5114.26] We will serve you in your seat. -[5114.36 --> 5117.08] So please just indicate to the ushers in the aisles. -[5117.22 --> 5119.44] And they will bring the elements to you. -[5121.94 --> 5123.52] The body of Christ given for you. -[5126.90 --> 5128.38] The body of Christ given for you. -[5134.56 --> 5135.46] Christ given for you. -[5135.46 --> 5139.46] The body of Christ given for you. -[5140.62 --> 5142.90] The body of Christ gave us. -[5144.70 --> 5145.98] The body of Christ with a Allen. -[5163.48 --> 5163.74] Eat. -[5164.36 --> 5164.86] And remember. -[5164.86 --> 5186.70] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5194.86 --> 5196.52] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5224.86 --> 5254.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5254.86 --> 5284.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5284.86 --> 5314.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5314.84 --> 5316.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5316.84 --> 5320.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5320.84 --> 5326.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5326.84 --> 5332.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5332.84 --> 5338.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5338.84 --> 5344.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5344.84 --> 5346.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5346.84 --> 5352.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5352.84 --> 5358.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5358.84 --> 5364.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5364.84 --> 5370.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5370.84 --> 5376.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5376.84 --> 5382.84] Jesus, you brought heaven. -[5382.84 --> 5388.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5388.84 --> 5390.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5390.84 --> 5394.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5394.84 --> 5396.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5396.84 --> 5402.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5402.84 --> 5406.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5406.84 --> 5418.84] Lord of Christ, shed for you. -[5418.84 --> 5421.56] Nothing compares to this. -[5421.56 --> 5425.30] What a wonderful name it is. -[5425.46 --> 5429.14] The name of Jesus. -[5429.96 --> 5432.88] What a wonderful name it is. -[5433.12 --> 5436.78] The name of Jesus. -[5448.84 --> 5455.66] Death could not hold you. -[5456.38 --> 5459.58] The days are new for you. -[5460.12 --> 5466.40] You silenced the boast of sin and grave. -[5466.40 --> 5470.58] Heaven's outroar me. -[5470.58 --> 5474.06] The praise of your glory. -[5474.06 --> 5480.78] For you are raised to life again. -[5481.82 --> 5484.74] You have no rival. -[5485.82 --> 5488.56] You have no equal. -[5489.84 --> 5495.36] Now and forever God you reign. -[5496.72 --> 5499.48] Yours is the kingdom. -[5499.48 --> 5503.42] Yours is the glory. -[5504.06 --> 5510.74] Yours is the name above all names. -[5511.32 --> 5514.34] What a powerful name it is. -[5514.82 --> 5518.28] What a powerful name it is. -[5518.70 --> 5524.82] The name of Jesus Christ my King. -[5524.82 --> 5529.24] What a powerful name it is. -[5530.12 --> 5532.72] Nothing can stand against. -[5532.72 --> 5536.54] What a powerful name it is. -[5536.54 --> 5540.34] The name of Jesus. -[5540.34 --> 5545.04] You have no rival here. -[5545.04 --> 5547.74] You have no equal. -[5547.74 --> 5553.30] Now and forever God you reign. -[5553.30 --> 5556.36] Yours is the kingdom. -[5556.36 --> 5558.72] Yours is the kingdom. -[5558.72 --> 5560.62] Yours is the glory. -[5560.62 --> 5565.22] Yours is the name above all names. -[5565.22 --> 5569.90] What a powerful name it is. -[5569.90 --> 5573.84] What a powerful name it is. -[5573.84 --> 5576.46] What a powerful name it is. -[5576.46 --> 5583.54] The name of Jesus Christ my King. -[5583.54 --> 5587.84] What a powerful name it is. -[5587.84 --> 5591.40] Nothing can stand against. -[5591.40 --> 5595.16] What a powerful name it is. -[5595.16 --> 5598.90] The name of Jesus. -[5598.90 --> 5602.70] What a wonderful name it is. -[5602.70 --> 5606.54] The name of Jesus. -[5606.54 --> 5610.36] What a beautiful name it is. -[5610.36 --> 5614.54] The name of Jesus. -[5614.54 --> 5628.36] The name of Jesus. -[5628.36 --> 5630.36] The name of Jesus. -[5630.36 --> 5632.62] The name of Jesus. -[5632.62 --> 5650.30] Great is thy faithfulness, O God, my Father. -[5650.30 --> 5659.30] There is no shadow of turning with thee. -[5659.30 --> 5667.98] Thou changest not, thy compassions may fail not. -[5668.60 --> 5676.08] As thou hast been, thou forever wilt be. -[5677.16 --> 5685.18] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[5685.18 --> 5693.32] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[5694.16 --> 5701.46] All I have needed thy hand hath provided. -[5701.46 --> 5710.46] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto you. -[5710.46 --> 5725.68] Summer and winter and springtime and harvest. -[5725.68 --> 5734.14] Sun, moon, and stars in their courses above. -[5734.64 --> 5742.36] Joined with all nature in manifold witness. -[5742.36 --> 5751.36] To thy great faithfulness, mercy and love. -[5751.36 --> 5760.76] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[5761.34 --> 5768.74] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[5768.74 --> 5777.74] All I have needed thy hand hath provided. -[5777.74 --> 5786.74] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[5786.74 --> 5802.50] Thine Lord, for sin and the peace that endures. -[5802.50 --> 5811.52] Thine all dear presence to cheer and to guide. -[5811.52 --> 5819.96] Strength for today and pride, hope for tomorrow. -[5821.44 --> 5828.52] Blessings of mine with ten thousand beside. -[5830.64 --> 5838.52] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[5838.52 --> 5847.52] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[5849.14 --> 5856.98] All I have needed thy hand hath provided. -[5858.46 --> 5866.52] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[5868.52 --> 5870.52] Thank you. -[5870.52 --> 5871.52] Thank you. -[5871.52 --> 5875.52] Thank you. -[5875.52 --> 5877.52] Thank you. -[5877.52 --> 5879.52] Thank you. -[5879.52 --> 5881.52] Thank you. -[5881.52 --> 5883.52] Thank you. -[5883.52 --> 5884.52] Thank you. -[5884.52 --> 5885.52] Thank you. -[5885.52 --> 5886.52] Thank you. -[5886.52 --> 5888.52] Thank you. -[5888.52 --> 5902.16] Because you were forsaken -[5902.16 --> 5905.78] I've accepted -[5905.78 --> 5909.64] You were condemned -[5909.64 --> 5914.70] I'm alive and well -[5914.70 --> 5918.10] Your spirit is within me -[5918.10 --> 5924.04] Because you died and rose again -[5924.04 --> 5929.32] I've been forgiven -[5929.32 --> 5933.36] Because you were forsaken -[5933.36 --> 5937.24] I've accepted -[5937.24 --> 5941.32] You were condemned -[5941.32 --> 5946.10] I'm alive and well -[5946.10 --> 5950.04] Your spirit is within me -[5950.04 --> 5955.04] Because you died and rose again -[5955.04 --> 5965.98] Amazing love, how can it be? -[5965.98 --> 5971.92] I wish you my King would die for me -[5971.92 --> 5980.92] Amazing love, I know it's true -[5980.92 --> 5986.86] It's my joy to honor you -[5986.86 --> 5991.86] In all I do -[5991.86 --> 5995.86] I honor you -[5995.86 --> 5998.24] Please rise -[5998.24 --> 6004.18] I'm forgiven -[6004.18 --> 6004.62] I'm forgiven -[6004.62 --> 6008.18] Because you were forsaken -[6008.18 --> 6012.46] I'm accepted -[6012.46 --> 6016.18] You were condemned -[6016.18 --> 6021.40] I'm alive and well -[6021.40 --> 6024.34] Your spirit is within me -[6024.34 --> 6027.34] I'm alive and well -[6027.34 --> 6031.28] You were condemned -[6031.28 --> 6033.28] I'm alive and well -[6033.28 --> 6033.92] I'm alive and well -[6033.92 --> 6038.24] Amazing love, how can it be? -[6038.24 --> 6042.20] Amazing love, how can it be? -[6042.20 --> 6044.28] That you my King would die for me -[6044.28 --> 6058.28] that died for me -[6064.28 --> 6072.28] in all i do -[6074.28 --> 6078.28] you are my king -[6078.28 --> 6086.28] you are my king -[6086.28 --> 6094.28] jesus you are my king -[6094.28 --> 6104.28] you are my king -[6104.28 --> 6108.28] amazing love -[6108.28 --> 6112.28] how can it be -[6112.28 --> 6114.28] that you my king -[6114.28 --> 6118.28] who died for me -[6118.28 --> 6124.28] amazing love -[6124.28 --> 6130.28] i know it's true -[6130.28 --> 6132.28] and it's my joy -[6132.28 --> 6136.28] to honor you -[6136.28 --> 6138.28] in all i do -[6138.28 --> 6142.28] i honor you -[6142.28 --> 6146.28] in all i do -[6146.28 --> 6150.28] i honor you -[6150.28 --> 6156.28] you are my king -[6156.28 --> 6158.28] what a refrain -[6158.28 --> 6160.28] to end on and to go out -[6160.28 --> 6162.28] into this week -[6162.28 --> 6164.28] proclaiming -[6164.28 --> 6166.28] as you go just a quick reminder -[6166.28 --> 6168.28] you stick around for fellowship -[6168.28 --> 6170.28] and then i will be at the back -[6170.28 --> 6172.28] to you answer your questions -[6172.28 --> 6174.28] and hopefully recruit you -[6174.28 --> 6176.28] into some bag delivery service -[6176.28 --> 6178.28] over these next couple days -[6178.28 --> 6180.28] and so grab me for that and i will explain that to you -[6180.28 --> 6182.28] also if you're visiting with us this morning -[6182.28 --> 6184.28] we would love to connect with you -[6184.28 --> 6186.28] and so these cards are available -[6186.28 --> 6188.28] use one of those and connect with us there -[6188.28 --> 6194.28] and finally if you use one of the kids clipboards this morning -[6194.28 --> 6198.28] it would be really helpful if you could return them to the spot at the -[6198.28 --> 6200.28] in the foyer there that would be great -[6200.28 --> 6202.28] thank you so much -[6202.28 --> 6206.28] receive god's blessing now for the journey ahead -[6206.28 --> 6210.28] god go before you to guide you -[6210.28 --> 6214.28] god go behind you to protect you -[6214.28 --> 6216.28] god go beneath you to support you -[6216.28 --> 6220.28] god go beside you to befriend you -[6220.28 --> 6224.28] do not be afraid -[6224.28 --> 6226.28] let the blessing of god come upon you today -[6226.28 --> 6228.28] do not be afraid -[6228.28 --> 6230.28] but go in peace -[6230.28 --> 6232.28] to love and serve -[6232.28 --> 6234.28] the lord -[6234.28 --> 6236.28] amen -[6236.28 --> 6238.28] let's end with -[6238.28 --> 6240.28] salvation belongs to our god -[6246.28 --> 6256.28] god -[6256.28 --> 6258.28] i tried a different intro that didn't work -[6258.28 --> 6272.28] it just belongs to our god -[6272.28 --> 6276.28] who saves the Lord to the throne -[6276.28 --> 6278.28] and unto the land -[6278.28 --> 6286.28] praise and glory -[6286.28 --> 6288.28] wisdom and love -[6288.28 --> 6290.28] honor and power and strength -[6290.28 --> 6294.28] honor and power and strength -[6294.28 --> 6296.28] please you are gone -[6296.28 --> 6300.28] forever and ever -[6300.28 --> 6302.28] please you are gone -[6302.28 --> 6304.28] forever and ever -[6304.28 --> 6306.28] please you are gone -[6306.28 --> 6308.28] forever and ever -[6308.28 --> 6316.28] amen -[6316.28 --> 6320.28] and we the redeemed shall be strong -[6320.28 --> 6322.28] in purpose and unity -[6322.28 --> 6324.28] in purpose and unity -[6324.28 --> 6326.28] in unity -[6326.28 --> 6328.28] in glory and love -[6328.28 --> 6332.28] enh 활동 -[6332.28 --> 6334.28] lord -[6334.28 --> 6351.28] Muhl -[6351.28 --> 6352.28] me -[6352.28 --> 6356.44] ever -[6359.56 --> 6362.20] amen -[6364.28 --> 6375.48] me to our god forever and ever be to our god forever and ever -[6382.28 --> 6389.88] Be to our God forever and ever. -[6389.88 --> 6395.08] Be to our God forever and ever. -[6395.08 --> 6400.38] Be to our God forever and ever. -[6400.38 --> 6401.38] Amen. -[6412.28 --> 6414.28] Amen. -[6442.28 --> 6444.28] Amen. -[6472.28 --> 6474.28] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 17, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 17, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 51109cfcffddd0b87a800ab7f0bb3a6cfd9107e9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 17, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,65 +0,0 @@ -• Repeated expressions of gratitude -• Psalm 103 reading and call to worship -• Praise hymn with various stanzas and lyrics -• Reference to a mount or mountain of redeeming love -• Hymns and songs, including "Come, Thou Fount" and "Jesus sought me when a stranger" -• Theme of God's mercy, love, and redemption -• Praying for God's presence and seal on one's heart -• Reflection on past unbelief and seeking forgiveness -• Requesting mercy and pardon from God -• Citing biblical passages (Titus 3) about God's kindness and love -• Acknowledging earthly wisdom and seeking guidance from God -• Expressions of devotion, praise, and worship to God -• Pledge of allegiance to God -• Prayer for church leaders and new office bearers -• Thankfulness for community and time together in worship -• Prayers for various individuals including healing and recovery -• Gratitude for service and volunteer efforts within the congregation -• Prayer for strained relationships within the community -• Story/joke about a high school student's prom preparations -• Parables without endings can be frustrating -• The parable of the barren fig tree, from Luke 13:6-9, has a mysterious ending -• Interpretation of parables requires some work and faith to understand Jesus' message -• Scholars disagree on the meaning of symbols in this parable -• The vineyard, owner, vine dresser, and fig tree may represent different things, but exact meanings are unclear -• Some clarity can be found by looking at other parts of Scripture, such as Isaiah 5:1-7 -• Jesus tells a parable about a fig tree not producing fruit, which represents Israel and the Jewish people -• The parable is connected to two tragedies that occurred in Jesus' time: Pilate's killing of Galileans while they made sacrifices, and the collapse of a tower in Siloam that killed 18 people -• Jesus refutes the idea that those who die suddenly or tragically are being judged by God for their sins -• He explains that death is a result of sin entering the world through Adam and Eve's actions -• The parable is meant to convey that individual sins do not directly cause death, but rather death is a consequence of the overarching sin of humanity -• The fall of man has led to death and judgment for sin being inevitable -• Jesus tells a parable about a vineyard that needs care and renewal, but not destruction -• The parable is compared to the Old Testament story, where God was willing to destroy the vineyard due to its lack of fruit -• In contrast, the new parable offers a chance for redemption and renewal through outside help -• Jesus is that outside help, providing renewal and salvation from sin and death -• He lived a perfect life, died on the cross, and rose again to defeat sin and death -• Through faith in Jesus, people can be saved and their story continues after death, with hope of joining Jesus in heaven -• The importance of responding to the renewing work of Jesus in one's life -• The danger of being distracted by the sins and problems of others while neglecting personal response to God's truth -• The reality of living in a post-Christian world where people are looking for spiritual solutions without Jesus -• The tendency to compare oneself favorably to others, rather than focusing on personal faith and fruit-bearing -• The need to look inward and examine one's own heart and sin, rather than only judging or worrying about the lives of others. -• Repentance is necessary for a life of privilege -• True salvation comes from Jesus, not personal efforts -• Renewal has already been done through Jesus' work -• The gospel truth of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection brings salvation -• Responding to this truth involves humble repentance and bold faith -• Living in obedience to God's word and proclaiming the gospel to others is essential -• Worship and praise to a King -• A person waiting in line for various things, including food and a limo -• A joke about waiting in line -• Themes of belonging, forgiveness, and redemption through Jesus Christ -• A parting blessing -• Praise and celebration for the coming of a bridegroom (glorious one) -• Description of a better place to come -• Celebration of a future event -• Description of heaven as a place with golden streets and a glorious bride -• Encouragement to lift up voices and proclaim the coming land -• Call to dance and sing on the streets of heaven -• Mention of Jesus as the risen King and groom -• References to music, singing, and dancing in celebration of God's presence -• The speaker describes the excitement of the Sadie Hawkins dance and how girls ask the guys to attend -• The speaker talks about their own experiences at school, including giving a speech and telling jokes in class -• The speaker's sweater is repeatedly mentioned and admired by someone else -• The quarterback asks the speaker if they want a beating, but the speaker declines and then meets a girl who asks them to go with her to the dance \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 17, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 17, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 111e8559363221d9a2d297c42e58e738bc90e474..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 17, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,913 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.00] że -[18.20 --> 21.20] Ciebie -[21.20 --> 22.56] w -[22.56 --> 52.54] Thank you. -[52.56 --> 82.54] Thank you. -[82.56 --> 112.54] Thank you. -[112.56 --> 142.54] Thank you. -[142.56 --> 172.54] Thank you. -[172.56 --> 202.54] Thank you. -[202.56 --> 232.54] Thank you. -[232.56 --> 262.54] Thank you. -[262.56 --> 264.56] Thank you. -[264.56 --> 266.56] Thank you. -[292.56 --> 294.56] Thank you. -[322.56 --> 324.56] Thank you. -[352.56 --> 354.56] Thank you. -[382.56 --> 384.56] Thank you. -[384.56 --> 386.56] Thank you. -[386.56 --> 388.56] Thank you. -[388.56 --> 390.56] Thank you. -[390.56 --> 392.56] Thank you. -[392.56 --> 394.56] Thank you. -[394.56 --> 396.56] Thank you. -[396.56 --> 398.56] Thank you. -[398.56 --> 400.56] Thank you. -[400.56 --> 402.56] Thank you. -[402.56 --> 404.56] Thank you. -[432.56 --> 434.56] Thank you. -[434.56 --> 464.56] And the food -[464.56 --> 494.56] -[494.56 --> 497.56] rogen, -[497.56 --> 498.56] hogy test you, -[498.56 --> 499.56] uns mogli, -[499.56 --> 501.56] It was so very very, especially o' de-code, -[501.56 --> 508.36] Peace to you from God, our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[509.56 --> 509.96] Amen. -[516.54 --> 521.76] Our call to worship comes from Psalm 103, verses 19 to 22. -[521.76 --> 531.92] The Lord has established his throne in heaven and his kingdom rules over all. -[532.88 --> 539.30] Praise the Lord, you his angels, you mighty ones who do his bidding, who obey his word. -[540.26 --> 545.48] Praise the Lord, all his heavenly hosts, you his servants who do his will. -[546.22 --> 550.32] Praise the Lord, all his works, everywhere in his dominion. -[551.76 --> 579.76] Praise my soul, the King of heaven, -[579.76 --> 585.74] To his feet your tribute bring. -[586.14 --> 590.68] Ransomed, healed, restored, forgiven. -[591.36 --> 596.16] Evermore his praises sing. -[597.44 --> 601.64] Alleluia, alleluia. -[601.98 --> 606.76] Praise the everlasting King. -[606.76 --> 620.04] Praise him for his grace and favor, to his people in distress. -[620.50 --> 631.10] Praise him still the same as ever, slow to chide and swift to bless. -[631.10 --> 633.10] Alleluia, alleluia. -[633.10 --> 636.10] Alleluia, alleluia. -[636.10 --> 642.80] Glorious in his faithfulness. -[642.80 --> 650.32] Father, like he tends and spares us, -[650.32 --> 655.32] Well, our feeble frame he knows. -[655.32 --> 666.24] In his hand he gently bears us, rescues us from all our foes. -[666.24 --> 671.78] Alleluia, alleluia. -[671.78 --> 677.32] Widely yet his mercy flows. -[677.32 --> 684.32] Angels, help us to adore him. -[684.32 --> 691.32] You behold him face to face. -[691.32 --> 696.32] Sun and moon bow down before him. -[696.32 --> 702.32] Dwellers all in time and space. -[702.32 --> 707.32] Alleluia, alleluia. -[707.32 --> 714.32] Praise him, us the God of grace. -[714.32 --> 715.32] Come, thou fount of peace. -[715.32 --> 716.32] Come, thou fount of peace. -[716.32 --> 717.32] Come, thou fount of peace. -[717.32 --> 718.32] Every blessing. -[718.32 --> 720.32] Come, thou fount of every blessing. -[720.32 --> 724.32] Come, thou fount of every blessing. -[724.32 --> 741.32] To my heart to sing thy grace. -[741.32 --> 742.32] Streams of mercy never ceasing. -[742.32 --> 748.32] Call for songs of loudest praise. -[748.32 --> 749.32] Teach me some melodious sonnet. -[749.32 --> 750.32] Sung by flaming tongues above. -[750.32 --> 751.32] Praise the mount I'm fixed upon. -[751.32 --> 752.32] I'm a son of my heart to sing thy grace. -[752.32 --> 755.32] Streams of mercy never ceasing. -[755.32 --> 756.32] Call for songs of loudest praise. -[756.32 --> 757.32] Call for songs of loudest praise. -[757.32 --> 758.32] Teach me some melodious sonnet. -[758.32 --> 759.32] Sung by flaming tongues above. -[759.32 --> 762.32] Praise the mount I'm fixed upon it. -[762.32 --> 763.32] Mount of thy redeeming love. -[763.32 --> 764.32] Teach me some melodious sonnet. -[764.32 --> 768.32] Teach me some melodious sonnet. -[768.32 --> 773.32] Sung by flaming tongues above. -[773.32 --> 778.32] Praise the mount I'm fixed upon it. -[778.32 --> 784.32] Mount of thy redeeming love. -[784.32 --> 797.32] Here I raise my Ebenezer. -[797.32 --> 803.32] Hither by thy help I'm come. -[803.32 --> 808.32] And I hope by thy good pleasure -[808.32 --> 814.32] Safely to arrive at home. -[814.32 --> 819.32] Jesus sought me when a stranger -[819.32 --> 825.32] Wandering from the fold of God -[825.32 --> 830.32] He to rescue me from danger -[830.32 --> 836.32] Interposed his precious blood. -[838.32 --> 859.32] O to grace how great a debtor -[859.32 --> 865.32] Daily I'm constrained to be -[865.32 --> 871.32] Let thy goodness like a fetter -[871.32 --> 876.32] Bind my wandering heart to thee -[876.32 --> 882.32] Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it -[882.32 --> 887.32] Prone to leave the God I love -[887.32 --> 893.32] Here's my heart, Lord, take and seal it -[893.32 --> 897.32] Seal it for thy courts -[897.32 --> 908.32] Above all else I adore your name -[908.32 --> 918.32] Above all else tune my heart to sing your praise -[918.32 --> 923.32] Above all else I adore your praise -[923.32 --> 925.32] Above all else I adore your praise -[925.32 --> 939.32] Above all else tune my heart to sing your praise -[939.32 --> 950.32] Above all else, I adore your name. -[951.32 --> 960.40] Above all else, tune my heart to sing your praise. -[960.40 --> 971.68] Above all else, I adore your name. -[972.08 --> 980.40] Above all else, tune my heart to sing your praise. -[980.40 --> 992.40] The highest praise, the loudest praise to the name of every day. -[1002.40 --> 1004.54] From Titus 3. -[1004.54 --> 1014.68] At one time, we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived, and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. -[1015.52 --> 1020.22] We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. -[1021.48 --> 1026.92] But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us. -[1027.38 --> 1032.48] Not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. -[1032.48 --> 1038.12] He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, -[1038.84 --> 1043.40] whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, -[1044.10 --> 1051.90] so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs, having the hope of eternal life. -[1062.48 --> 1075.00] Jesus, I've forgotten the words that you have spoken, -[1075.00 --> 1088.98] Jesus, I've forgotten the words that you have spoken. -[1089.98 --> 1096.54] Promises that burned within my heart have now grown dear. -[1096.54 --> 1104.54] With a doubting heart I follow the paths of earthly wisdom. -[1104.54 --> 1112.54] Forgive me for my unbelief, renew them far again. -[1112.54 --> 1128.54] Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy, Lord have mercy on me. -[1128.54 --> 1144.54] Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy, Lord have mercy on me. -[1146.54 --> 1153.92] I have built an altar where I've worshipped things of man. -[1153.92 --> 1160.92] I have taken journeys that have drawn me far from you. -[1160.92 --> 1168.92] Now I am returning to your mercies ever flowing. -[1168.92 --> 1176.92] Pardon my transgressions, help me love you again. -[1176.92 --> 1193.92] Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy, Lord have mercy on me. -[1193.92 --> 1209.92] Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy, Lord have mercy on me. -[1211.92 --> 1223.00] I have longed to know you, and all your tender mercies like a river of forgiveness. -[1223.92 --> 1242.92] I am not pretending to do not sia springe thing. -[1242.92 --> 1252.76] Lord have mercy Christ have mercy -[1252.76 --> 1260.04] Lord have mercy on me -[1260.04 --> 1268.10] Lord have mercy Christ have mercy -[1268.10 --> 1276.02] Lord have mercy on me -[1276.02 --> 1277.10] Lord have mercy on me -[1298.10 --> 1328.08] Lord have mercy on me -[1328.08 --> 1358.06] Lord have mercy on me -[1358.08 --> 1388.06] Lord have mercy on me -[1388.06 --> 1418.04] Lord have mercy on me -[1418.04 --> 1448.02] Lord have mercy on me -[1448.02 --> 1478.00] Lord have mercy on me -[1478.00 --> 1507.98] Lord have mercy on me -[1507.98 --> 1537.96] Lord have mercy on me -[1537.96 --> 1567.94] Lord have mercy on me -[1567.94 --> 1597.92] Lord have mercy on me -[1597.92 --> 1627.90] Lord have mercy on me -[1627.90 --> 1657.88] Lord have mercy on me -[1657.88 --> 1687.86] Lord have mercy on me -[1687.86 --> 1717.84] Lord have mercy on me -[1717.84 --> 1747.82] Lord have mercy on me -[1747.82 --> 1777.80] Lord have mercy on me -[1777.80 --> 1807.78] Lord have mercy on me -[1807.78 --> 1837.76] Lord have mercy on me -[1837.76 --> 1867.74] Lord have mercy on me -[1867.74 --> 1897.72] Lord have mercy on me -[1897.74 --> 1927.72] Lord have mercy on me -[1927.72 --> 1957.70] Jesus you will -[1957.70 --> 1987.68] Lord have mercy on me -[1987.68 --> 2017.66] Lord have mercy on me -[2017.68 --> 2047.66] Lord have mercy on me -[2047.66 --> 2077.64] Lord have mercy on me -[2077.64 --> 2107.62] Lord have mercy on me -[2107.62 --> 2137.60] Lord have mercy on me -[2137.60 --> 2167.58] you know who's -[2167.58 --> 2197.56] Lord have mercy on me -[2197.58 --> 2227.56] Lord have mercy on me -[2227.56 --> 2257.54] and install them and pray on me -[2257.54 --> 2287.52] Lord have mercy on me -[2287.52 --> 2317.50] Lord have mercy on me -[2317.50 --> 2347.48] Lord have mercy on me -[2347.48 --> 2377.46] Lord have mercy on me -[2377.46 --> 2407.44] Lord have mercy on me -[2407.44 --> 2437.42] Lord have mercy on me -[2437.42 --> 2467.40] I probably shouldn't have mercy on me -[2467.40 --> 2497.38] Lord have mercy on me -[2497.40 --> 2527.36] I do with God's -[2527.38 --> 2557.34] and guide you and guide you and I'll see you and God's -[2557.34 --> 2557.36] -[2587.34 --> 2617.32] Lord have mercy on me -[2617.32 --> 2647.32] -[2647.32 --> 2677.30] justice and justice and justice -[2677.30 --> 2677.32] -[2707.30 --> 2713.86] honor and take their counsel seriously. Respect and respond to them with obedience and respect -[2713.86 --> 2721.90] and accept their help with thanks. Wholeheartedly participate in the ministries into which they lead -[2721.90 --> 2728.46] you and sustain them in prayer and encourage them with your support, especially when they feel the -[2728.46 --> 2736.40] burden of their office and acknowledge them as the Lord's servant among you. If you are willing to do -[2736.40 --> 2741.80] that, I'm going to ask a question here and invite you to respond with the words as you see them. Do you -[2741.80 --> 2747.32] then, Emmanuel Church, pledge to receive them as you have been charged? -[2751.38 --> 2758.42] Amen. I'm going to invite Eric to come to the front and he's going to pray for us. -[2766.40 --> 2787.56] My name is Eric Kubert. I'm an elder here at Emmanuel and I'd like to lead you in our church family prayer. -[2787.56 --> 2794.98] Lord, we come to you this morning. Thank you for the opportunity to once come together as your people. -[2795.60 --> 2800.14] Thank you for this community and for the time we can have to spend together in worship of your name. -[2801.26 --> 2808.20] As David says in Psalm 103, praise the Lord, O my soul, all my inmost being, praise his holy name. -[2809.94 --> 2815.36] Praise the Lord, O my soul, forgot not all his benefits, who forgives all our sins, -[2815.36 --> 2821.92] heals all our diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion. -[2826.64 --> 2831.10] Our merciful Father in heaven, we thank you for providing these faithful gifts -[2831.10 --> 2838.34] and gifted people to serve as deacons. As the new office bearers assume their responsibilities, -[2839.12 --> 2843.96] fill them with your spirit, enable them with your wisdom, grant them strength, -[2843.96 --> 2850.14] make them faithful workers in your vineyard. Under your guidance, may your church grow in every -[2850.14 --> 2858.96] spiritual grace and faith which is open and unashamed and committed service that promotes your reign, -[2859.30 --> 2866.84] the world. Help them perform their duties with enthusiasm, humility in their work. Grant them a sense of awe -[2866.84 --> 2875.18] in this model and daily adoration of you, their Lord. Through them, may your name be honored and your -[2875.18 --> 2882.02] church be saved. Help us, your people, to accept them gladly. Encourage them always and respect them for -[2882.02 --> 2890.04] the sake of your precious Son, our Lord, whose name we pray. Lord, we are so thankful for the time of year -[2890.04 --> 2896.56] when any of us are able to take time off and enjoy the beautiful creation. Taking a vacation, -[2897.64 --> 2902.56] whether we're staying here or traveling abroad, we pray for a relaxing and safe travels. -[2904.06 --> 2908.80] We also want to pray for those people in our congregation who are dealing with injuries. -[2909.22 --> 2915.72] We pray for continued healing for Harry as he's recuperating from surgery on both his arms. -[2915.72 --> 2922.60] We pray for the patients he needs each and every day he rests and waits for healing. We also pray that -[2922.60 --> 2931.12] he's able to regain full mobility in his arms again. We also want to pay for Ellen as she's recovering -[2931.12 --> 2937.52] from her fall from a couple weeks ago. We pray for healing as the doctors determine what actions need -[2937.52 --> 2942.48] to be taken in order to have her wrist fully heal from her injury. -[2944.08 --> 2948.82] This past week, we had the opportunity to host the kids' camp with kids from around the community -[2948.82 --> 2953.80] attending. We are thankful for those who shared their gifts of leadership and for those who volunteered -[2953.80 --> 2959.80] to help. Use the Bible lessons and activities the kids took part in to speak in their young lives. -[2959.80 --> 2967.72] We also thank you for yesterday's pancake breakfast and for the donations we were given for the Langley Food Bank. -[2968.12 --> 2972.54] May the food we collected be a blessing in our community and help us to continue to remember -[2972.54 --> 2975.34] those in our community who need support in this way. -[2977.24 --> 2980.76] We also want to pray for the many strained relationships in our community. -[2981.62 --> 2984.20] Lord, bring your grace and restoration to our relationships. -[2984.20 --> 2991.00] There are marriages, parent and child relationships, and other family connections that have been broken. -[2991.50 --> 2994.76] We pray for your spirit to bring resolution and forgiveness. -[2996.28 --> 3000.90] For great is your love reaching to the heavens. Your faithfulness reaches to the skies. -[3001.70 --> 3007.00] Be exalted, O God, above the heavens. Let your glory be over the earth. Amen. -[3014.20 --> 3042.22] I'd like to tell a story, if I may. Actually, it's a little bit more of a joke, but it's a joke -[3042.22 --> 3048.90] that comes in the form of a story. So there was this high school student, grade 12 student in America, -[3048.90 --> 3054.10] and he was very excited for his prom. And he was really excited. He had his date, and he was looking -[3054.10 --> 3058.82] forward to this night, and he thought, oh, I better get myself a nice tuxedo. And so he went to the -[3058.82 --> 3064.06] tuxedo rental shop, and he found one that he liked that fit nice, and he went to go pay, and there was -[3064.06 --> 3068.84] just this really long line. So he stood in this line, and he waited, and he waited, and he waited, and finally -[3068.84 --> 3072.98] he paid for his tuxedo, and he thought, oh, now I need a nice pair of shoes to go with this tuxedo. -[3073.06 --> 3077.92] And so he went three doors down to this local shoe shop, and he found this beautiful pair of black -[3077.92 --> 3082.26] shoes, and he tried them on, and they fit nice, and he went to pay, and again, there was just this -[3082.26 --> 3086.60] really long line. So he waited in this line, and he waited, and he waited, and he waited, and finally -[3086.60 --> 3092.52] he paid for the shoes. And he thought, oh, you know what? I need a carnation. I need a carnation for my -[3092.52 --> 3096.70] date. She loves carnations. I need to go get her a carnation. So he went to the flower store, and he -[3096.70 --> 3102.02] found this beautiful bouquet of flowers, and he went to go pay, and again, there's just this really -[3102.02 --> 3106.50] long line. And so he stands in line, and he waits, and he waits, and he waits, and he waits, and finally -[3106.50 --> 3110.00] he buys the flowers, and he's like, all right, yeah, now I'm ready to go. I need to show up, though, -[3110.60 --> 3115.88] looking good, and so I should rent a limousine. And so he goes to the, like, the little car dealership -[3115.88 --> 3120.16] place, and he finds that he can get one, and it's a pretty good deal, and so he goes to pay for this -[3120.16 --> 3125.38] limousine, and again, it's just this long line. So he's waiting, and he's waiting, and he's waiting, and he's -[3125.38 --> 3129.28] waiting in line to pay for his limousine, and finally he gets the, gets his limousine. He shows -[3129.28 --> 3134.56] up to his dates house, picks her up, heads to prom, and he's all excited, and they're excited to go to -[3134.56 --> 3139.32] this, this prom together, and he shows up, and there's this long line of cars, because there's -[3139.32 --> 3144.30] valet parking, and he has to wait in this line before he can finally attend this prom, and he's -[3144.30 --> 3149.08] waiting, and he's waiting, and he's waiting, and he's waiting, and finally he gets to go to prom, and when -[3149.08 --> 3156.44] he gets inside, oh, you won't believe what happens next. Stories without endings suck, don't they? -[3157.88 --> 3162.96] Like, we all kind of want to hear what happens to this guy in this prom. We all want to know what -[3162.96 --> 3170.42] happens next, and by the looks on some of your faces, you need to know what happens next. Well, in this -[3170.42 --> 3174.94] sermon series, we're looking at stories that Jesus told, and believe it or not, many of these stories, -[3174.94 --> 3181.66] many of these parables don't actually end. They're just kind of left to hang for the reader or the -[3181.66 --> 3187.72] listener to finish on their own, and we're going to look at one of those parables this morning, the -[3187.72 --> 3193.32] parable of the barren fig tree. If you've got your Bibles open, you can open them up with you. We're -[3193.32 --> 3198.68] going to read this there. I also encourage you to keep that open throughout the sermon. If you've got -[3198.68 --> 3202.72] it on your phones, that's good too, and read with me what happens. It'll be on the screen behind as -[3202.72 --> 3208.88] well. Luke 13, verses 6 to 9. That's just a short little parable there, and there we read this. -[3209.92 --> 3218.40] Then he, that is Jesus, told this parable. A man had a fig tree growing in his vineyard, and he went -[3218.40 --> 3224.98] to look for fruit on it, but did not find any. So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, -[3225.10 --> 3230.12] for three years now I've been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree, and I haven't found any. -[3230.12 --> 3237.84] Cut it down. Why should it use up the soil? Sir, the man replied, the vine dresser, as some -[3237.84 --> 3242.92] translations say, leave it alone for one more year, and I'll dig around it and fertilize it. -[3243.16 --> 3251.46] If it bears fruit next year, fine. If not, cut it down then. The word of the Lord. -[3251.46 --> 3257.74] So like my story about the guy going to prom, which I mean, we'll see if I finish that story a little -[3257.74 --> 3262.76] bit later in the sermon, because the ending is really good. We're left wondering, what happens? -[3263.34 --> 3270.06] What happened to this tree? Did the tree survive, or did it get dug out? Did it produce good fruit, -[3270.18 --> 3276.12] or did it remain barren? Did it respond to the vine dresser's work, or does it simply remain -[3276.12 --> 3283.22] unfruitful? Now as Pastor Chris mentioned last week, Sunday, in some ways we can look at a parable -[3283.22 --> 3287.10] like this, and we can get a quick understanding of sort of what's going on here. In this case, -[3287.12 --> 3291.84] if we were to take a snapshot of this parable, an easy read would maybe say, we're to be fruitful -[3291.84 --> 3298.28] for Jesus. But again, like Pastor Chris said last week, with parables there's always some -[3298.28 --> 3304.54] obfuscation, which again, as we learned, is an unnecessarily confusing word, which means -[3304.54 --> 3310.30] unnecessarily confusing. That means there's a little work that we have to do, and a little -[3310.30 --> 3315.12] faith that we have to have in order to really squeeze out what Jesus is getting at here. -[3315.42 --> 3321.50] Oftentimes this can be done by looking at who is in this parable. So in this story, who is the owner -[3321.50 --> 3327.94] of this vineyard? Or who is the vine dresser? Who does the fig tree, or what does the fig tree represent? -[3329.14 --> 3333.64] What is the vineyard, or where is the vineyard? Those are questions that generally help us -[3333.64 --> 3341.36] get to the bottom of what parables mean. The problem is, this parable itself is actually a -[3341.36 --> 3347.58] little bit confusing. See, scholars across time, they've disagreed on what the symbols mean in this -[3347.58 --> 3354.24] parable, more than most parables from what I gather. Like, is the vine dresser Jesus, and the owner God? -[3355.08 --> 3359.38] Aren't God and Jesus one and the same? How can they be different? Can you even separate the two? -[3359.38 --> 3364.00] What about the fig tree? Are those the disciples? Are they the Jewish leaders? Are they the Jewish people? -[3364.70 --> 3370.84] Are they the church? The crowd was a big smattering of everyone there. It's got to be a person, right? -[3371.14 --> 3378.48] What about the vineyard itself? Is it just the world, or is it a certain place in a certain time? -[3379.50 --> 3385.50] Again, is it the church? Now most of those questions, they're answered a little bit differently, -[3385.50 --> 3390.08] depending on who you ask, which makes coming up with the symbols of this parable a little bit tricky. -[3390.20 --> 3394.70] People have been allegorizing this parable since it was spoken, but the problem is, once you try to -[3394.70 --> 3400.88] attach a specific person or a specific symbol to a specific character in this parable, you often end -[3400.88 --> 3410.02] up with more questions than answers. However, we can find some clarity in some of the symbols, and at least -[3410.02 --> 3417.18] in all of the symbols that matter when we look at the rest of Scripture. So in Isaiah 5 verses 1 to 7, -[3417.28 --> 3422.68] we read about an Old Testament parable that sounds a lot like this one. Basically, and feel free to -[3422.68 --> 3426.82] turn it to in your Bibles, and you can read it later if you wish, in this Old Testament parable, -[3426.92 --> 3431.98] there's a vineyard, and it's not producing fruit for the owner. However, in the Old Testament parable, -[3432.28 --> 3437.30] there's no vine dresser willing to give the vineyard one more year, one more chance, a little bit more -[3437.30 --> 3442.84] love. And so in Isaiah, the owner simply says he's going to destroy the vineyard. He's going to lay it -[3442.84 --> 3448.72] to waste, tear down the walls, and make sure that rain will not fall on it. At the end of that parable, -[3448.88 --> 3455.06] Isaiah decides that there's no need for obfuscation. Verse 7 of that parable says that God is the owner -[3455.06 --> 3462.08] and Israel is the vineyard. God is going to lay to waste this fruitful nation of his. You see, Israel was -[3462.08 --> 3467.84] meant to glorify God and reveal him to the nations around, but they didn't do that, and they weren't -[3467.84 --> 3474.30] doing that, and so Israel was going to be destroyed, which it was when Assyria came rolling to town, and -[3474.30 --> 3481.02] that's a different sermon. But back to our parable then. Vineyards have represented Israel throughout -[3481.02 --> 3485.94] the Old Testament, and so the Jewish people who were in this crowd listening to Jesus would have known -[3485.94 --> 3492.34] the framework that Jesus is setting here. Now, in Isaiah 5, the parable talks about grapes, whereas -[3492.34 --> 3497.82] here Jesus talks about fig trees. So it's not this perfect parable, or parallel, sorry, but apparently -[3497.82 --> 3502.44] fig trees were very popular in vineyards back then. They were very strong, sturdy trees, and vines would -[3502.44 --> 3508.34] be supported by them. It was not uncommon to find lots of fig trees in vineyards. So again, Jesus is -[3508.34 --> 3513.64] looking at this crowd, this crowd that includes Jews and Pharisees and other people, and he starts talking -[3513.64 --> 3519.38] about a vineyard that's not producing fruit, or more specifically, he starts talking about a tree -[3519.38 --> 3525.26] in the vineyard which is not producing fruit. And you know that the Jewish people there are taking -[3525.26 --> 3530.98] notice. In fact, some of them are going to take that personally. If the vineyard is the whole nation of -[3530.98 --> 3540.68] Israel, a tree in the vineyard has to be a person, right? But there's more. While that maybe helps paint a -[3540.68 --> 3545.52] little picture of what Jesus is getting at, to catch sort of the full scope, we need to ask two questions. -[3545.62 --> 3551.70] We need to ask, why does Jesus tell this parable in the first place? And again, like the prom story, why -[3551.70 --> 3560.34] doesn't this parable end? Now, the answer to why Jesus is telling us this story comes from the five verses -[3560.34 --> 3566.30] that precede this text. Before Jesus speaks this parable, this is what's happening and being said. So Luke 13, -[3566.30 --> 3572.12] one to five says this, now there were some present at that time who told Jesus about the Galileans -[3572.12 --> 3578.60] whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. Jesus answered, do you think that these Galileans -[3578.60 --> 3584.46] were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered this way? I tell you, no. -[3585.20 --> 3592.20] But unless you repent, you too will all perish. Or those 18 who died when that tower in Siloam fell on -[3592.20 --> 3598.84] them? Do you think that they were more guilty than all the others living in Jerusalem? I tell you, no. -[3600.06 --> 3604.10] But unless you repent, you too will all perish. -[3606.82 --> 3611.44] And so that's what was happening right before Jesus tells this parable. The people told Jesus that -[3611.44 --> 3618.12] some people in Galilee were killed by Pilate. And they implied that because they were killed by Pilate in -[3618.12 --> 3622.58] this tragic sort of gruesome way, they were getting judged for sins that they had committed. -[3623.02 --> 3629.50] They were implying that they must be worse sinners because they died in this way. And Jesus says, no. -[3630.60 --> 3635.72] No, they weren't worse. In fact, Jesus doubles down and he brings up another tragedy that happened -[3635.72 --> 3642.24] close to them in that time. He talks about a tower that fell in Siloam and 18 people died in that tragedy -[3642.24 --> 3648.78] too. And he says, were they worse sinners? Were they worse than all the other people in Jerusalem -[3648.78 --> 3656.82] because they died in that tragedy? No, of course not. Jesus goes on to say, and he's speaking to the -[3656.82 --> 3665.10] whole crowd now. He says, no, unless you repent, you'll all perish. And then he tells the parable. -[3666.28 --> 3671.74] See, Jesus is cutting through a bit of a myth here, cutting through a worldview that people who die, -[3671.74 --> 3677.42] who pass away suddenly or tragically, especially in unforeseen ways, they die because God is judging -[3677.42 --> 3684.52] them for their sins. But that's just not true. If human beings die by random violence or by some -[3684.52 --> 3690.70] freak accident or by natural disaster, it's not because God has arbitrarily decided to punish them -[3690.70 --> 3697.18] for their sins while leaving the rest of us alone. No. Jesus says it's not the sins of a man that brings -[3697.18 --> 3707.74] God's judgment, but the sin of mankind that does, or rather that did. Now, as Pastor Chris would say, -[3708.00 --> 3714.02] don't hear what I'm not saying. It's a good impression, right? When we sin, our sins have -[3714.02 --> 3720.10] consequences. If you steal from a store, you may get fined or banned or imprisoned. If you cheat on your -[3720.10 --> 3726.00] spouse, you might get divorced. If you don't treat your body like a temple, fentanyl can kill you. -[3726.00 --> 3733.80] Our sins have consequences. Sins can lead to death, but that's an action-reaction that causes death, -[3733.86 --> 3740.18] not God's judgment. But Jesus isn't talking about the ramifications of our decisions here. -[3740.64 --> 3748.12] He's saying that if people die suddenly, it's not God's judgment on their sins, ending with an S. -[3748.12 --> 3760.10] death, all death, is a result of sin, ending in an N. When Adam and Eve ate the fruit, sin became a part -[3760.10 --> 3766.42] of this world, and death came with it. Now people die, all of us. We will all perish, as Jesus said, -[3766.56 --> 3771.62] and it isn't our specific individual sins that will cause us death as a result of God's judgment. -[3771.62 --> 3778.36] We're going to die because sin has entered the world. This is a bummer of a sermon right now. -[3779.62 --> 3785.34] See, Jesus is getting at the difference between the sins we commit and the overarching sin of the -[3785.34 --> 3794.68] world. Sins versus sin. The Jews had Jesus looking at the specific sins of these few people, -[3794.68 --> 3799.46] and they were saying that they must be more sinful than us because they died in that way. -[3800.34 --> 3807.78] And so their presumed privilege, the Jews' presumed privilege, had them looking to Jesus to acknowledge -[3807.78 --> 3812.32] the sins of those around them, or in their minds, the sins of those beneath them. -[3813.82 --> 3822.12] And their resulted arrogance led Jesus to reply with, nah, you're all sinful. You're all going to perish. -[3822.12 --> 3825.70] Sin is going to cause you to die. -[3828.04 --> 3832.56] The fall of man happened, and now life is uncertain. Death lurks around the corner, -[3832.92 --> 3835.26] and judgment for our sin is inevitable. -[3837.26 --> 3839.74] Essentially, we're all doomed no matter what we do in this world. -[3840.36 --> 3848.56] Again, what a bummer right now. But don't worry, because it's about to change. -[3849.16 --> 3852.10] See, it's about to turn because Jesus follows this with this parable. -[3852.12 --> 3858.38] That we read today. Our eternal lives are not about the things we do, but about what Jesus did, -[3858.72 --> 3864.28] and about what the vine dresser did. That's why this parable, not ending, is so important. -[3864.74 --> 3869.56] See, in the Old Testament, the vineyard wasn't producing fruit, and so God was going to destroy it. -[3869.78 --> 3875.34] Here, though, that's not how this ends. Here, the vine dresser says, hold on, hold on. -[3876.34 --> 3882.66] Let's do some work here. Don't destroy it yet. Give it a year. I'll dig around it. I'll try to renew it. -[3883.20 --> 3886.32] Actually, if you read the parable, it says, let me put some manure on it, -[3886.58 --> 3891.14] which, interestingly, is the only time in the New Testament that that word in the Arabic is used. -[3891.92 --> 3895.66] Apparently, it's a bit of a play on words by Jesus, and the crowds would have found it amusing. -[3895.80 --> 3899.10] He was basically saying, if the trees were acting like poops, let's put some better poop on it, -[3899.38 --> 3902.36] and they would have laughed. See, Jesus had a sense of humor, apparently. -[3902.36 --> 3907.80] Anyways, the vine dresser says, leave it alone. Leave it alone for one more year. I'll care for it. -[3907.84 --> 3910.36] I'll nurture it a little bit, and then in a year, let's see if it's fruitful. -[3910.88 --> 3915.76] If it is, great. If not, we'll cut it down. -[3917.10 --> 3921.20] And that's the difference between the Old Testament parable and this new one Jesus is telling. -[3921.28 --> 3923.70] There's a chance for this tree in this parable. -[3923.70 --> 3928.58] And that chance, notice, does not come from itself. -[3929.36 --> 3934.06] It's not from the tree doing anything, or the tree trying a little bit harder to grow, -[3934.14 --> 3935.92] or the tree sinning a little less. -[3936.00 --> 3942.20] No, the second chance for life for this tree comes from outside, -[3942.82 --> 3945.18] because that's who Jesus is. -[3946.76 --> 3949.06] Jesus is that outside help we all need. -[3949.06 --> 3952.48] Jesus is the one who provides renewal for our lives, -[3952.48 --> 3955.34] and most importantly, like this parable, -[3955.96 --> 3959.62] Jesus is the reason our story doesn't end. -[3961.62 --> 3964.86] See, God saw the sin in the world and knew all would perish, -[3964.98 --> 3967.38] and so he sent his son, Jesus, into this world, -[3967.74 --> 3972.50] who Jesus also knew the sin that so easily entangles us all, -[3972.54 --> 3976.88] and so he lived this righteous life, this perfect life that none of us can live, -[3977.12 --> 3980.04] none of us have lived, and then, in place of all of us, -[3980.04 --> 3983.80] in place of you and in place of me, he died the death that we deserve to die. -[3984.74 --> 3988.46] And he took on the sins of this world, and he took them on the shoulders, -[3989.22 --> 3990.26] and he died on the cross. -[3991.84 --> 3994.96] And then three days later, he rose again from the dead, -[3995.00 --> 3997.12] and he defeated both sin and death, -[3997.14 --> 4001.84] and now he sits in heaven mediating on our behalf over all things and over all the cosmos, -[4001.84 --> 4007.76] and he sent his spirit to be with us, to sanctify us, to live in us, and guide us. -[4007.80 --> 4010.68] And now all who believe in him, in what he has accomplished, -[4010.94 --> 4014.28] and the work that he did to us are saved from our sins. -[4014.42 --> 4017.00] If we repent, our sins are forgiven, -[4017.12 --> 4020.12] so that when we die, we join Jesus in heaven, -[4020.32 --> 4022.34] and our story continues. -[4023.06 --> 4024.50] It doesn't end, it goes on. -[4024.50 --> 4027.74] As Paul says in Thessalonians, -[4028.50 --> 4030.34] brothers and sisters, -[4031.10 --> 4035.68] we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, -[4036.06 --> 4038.66] so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, -[4039.18 --> 4040.72] who have no hope. -[4042.22 --> 4045.48] For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, -[4045.88 --> 4048.42] and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus -[4048.42 --> 4051.56] those who have fallen asleep in him. -[4051.56 --> 4053.78] That's the truth. -[4053.96 --> 4056.72] That's the truth that we can hold on to from 1 Thessalonians. -[4056.92 --> 4060.60] That's the truth of Jesus' gospel message to all of us. -[4061.26 --> 4064.94] And that's the truth of why this parable doesn't end. -[4065.14 --> 4068.24] Because we have hope in what Jesus has done for us. -[4071.70 --> 4073.26] Back to the beginning for a second. -[4074.02 --> 4075.06] Not the prom story. -[4075.46 --> 4077.32] I can see some of you are still waiting for me to end that one. -[4077.32 --> 4082.34] No, go back to the beginning about why Jesus told this parable. -[4082.84 --> 4086.64] The people there went to Jesus telling him of people who had died -[4086.64 --> 4088.94] and asked if their sins were worse. -[4089.82 --> 4091.72] And Jesus said, no, your sins are all bad. -[4092.02 --> 4092.92] You all need saving. -[4093.54 --> 4095.96] You all need to respond to the vine dresser's work. -[4097.66 --> 4099.40] And that's the truth for us too. -[4099.40 --> 4103.98] How will you respond to the vine dresser? -[4104.04 --> 4109.46] How will you respond to the renewing work of Jesus in your life? -[4110.58 --> 4112.86] How will you respond in faith? -[4114.48 --> 4115.78] Jesus has done the work. -[4115.86 --> 4117.24] Are you producing fruit? -[4117.42 --> 4118.94] That is the question for us today. -[4119.24 --> 4121.72] Like the Jews, are we looking around us? -[4122.20 --> 4123.78] Out our windows at others? -[4123.88 --> 4125.86] At the sins in the world happening? -[4125.96 --> 4127.16] Sort of in our periphery? -[4127.16 --> 4130.26] Are we asking about them and if they will be good enough? -[4130.38 --> 4132.02] If their sins will go unpunished? -[4132.08 --> 4133.76] If their sins will be forgiven? -[4133.94 --> 4135.98] Wondering what God is doing about them? -[4138.22 --> 4139.78] Or are we looking at ourselves? -[4139.92 --> 4142.24] At the work he has done in our lives? -[4142.28 --> 4143.68] Are we responding in faith? -[4144.04 --> 4145.76] Are we bearing fruit in his name? -[4146.16 --> 4149.48] You see, we've talked about this a lot over past sermon series, -[4149.60 --> 4153.16] but we currently are living in a very post-Christian world right now. -[4153.16 --> 4157.10] Christianity is losing, and actually in many regards, -[4157.20 --> 4160.62] Christianity has lost any authority in our culture. -[4162.08 --> 4164.52] Our culture is becoming more and more pagan, -[4164.66 --> 4168.32] looking to the spiritual world without Jesus to solve their problems. -[4168.66 --> 4171.26] They are looking to more and more things for hope -[4171.26 --> 4172.94] that have nothing to do with Christ. -[4172.94 --> 4177.30] And it's becoming less and less Christian. -[4177.80 --> 4179.40] And what that does for us -[4179.40 --> 4184.16] is it can cause us to spend an awful lot of time -[4184.16 --> 4186.32] looking at the world around us -[4186.32 --> 4190.58] and thinking they are so much worse than us. -[4191.58 --> 4196.12] That they aren't living life the right way. -[4196.12 --> 4200.34] We start sounding like the crowd in this parable, -[4200.44 --> 4202.32] looking at the sins of the others -[4202.32 --> 4203.58] and not realizing that maybe, -[4205.18 --> 4206.34] and I dare say certainly, -[4207.14 --> 4208.66] we are the tree in this parable. -[4209.92 --> 4210.68] Because we are. -[4210.86 --> 4212.56] The tree in this parable is everyone. -[4214.62 --> 4217.64] We would all perish without the saving grace of Jesus Christ. -[4219.36 --> 4220.24] But we forget. -[4220.58 --> 4222.56] We forget to look at our own hearts, our own sin. -[4222.56 --> 4224.98] We're distracted by the people around us. -[4224.98 --> 4226.54] We can gossip about people -[4226.54 --> 4228.74] when we meet up with our friends for coffee. -[4228.92 --> 4231.24] And if we don't gossip, we sure like to hear the gossip. -[4231.68 --> 4233.86] We compare our lives with people on social media. -[4233.96 --> 4236.28] We judge those who are doing things differently than us. -[4236.60 --> 4239.02] Or we elevate and even maybe slander people -[4239.02 --> 4240.74] who are doing stuff that we wish we could do. -[4241.64 --> 4243.40] Or maybe our hearts are moving in a good direction. -[4243.52 --> 4244.72] Maybe there's empathy or sympathy. -[4245.04 --> 4246.50] But we find ourselves concerned -[4246.50 --> 4248.80] for the sins of the people who are close to us. -[4248.98 --> 4250.78] And our thoughts start becoming consumed -[4250.78 --> 4252.76] with what they are doing. -[4252.76 --> 4256.12] So much so that we fail to look at -[4256.12 --> 4257.42] what are we doing? -[4257.94 --> 4259.04] How are we living? -[4259.36 --> 4260.66] What is our response? -[4263.52 --> 4265.02] The fact is that maybe -[4265.02 --> 4267.36] it's possible -[4267.36 --> 4271.04] that we haven't been bearing good fruit either. -[4272.18 --> 4274.86] That even if the world around us is falling apart, -[4275.02 --> 4276.38] still maybe we -[4276.38 --> 4279.98] aren't responding to the vine dresser's work in our lives -[4279.98 --> 4283.76] because we're too busy looking around us. -[4285.60 --> 4287.54] It's our job to look at our own hearts -[4287.54 --> 4290.36] and ask how am I responding to the gospel truth -[4290.36 --> 4293.02] of the renewing work of Jesus in my own life? -[4293.22 --> 4295.50] Not only my wife's or my husband's life. -[4295.60 --> 4296.76] Not only my kid's life. -[4297.00 --> 4298.32] Not only my friend's life. -[4298.44 --> 4300.16] Or my neighbor's or my boss's. -[4300.26 --> 4301.62] Or my brother's or my sister's. -[4301.76 --> 4304.52] Or that person sitting two or three rows away from me right now. -[4304.52 --> 4306.40] Your life. -[4307.54 --> 4308.38] My life. -[4310.88 --> 4312.80] We will not be able to help our neighbors -[4312.80 --> 4314.68] if we are not responding ourselves. -[4314.84 --> 4317.90] We cannot be Jesus' hands and feet in this world -[4317.90 --> 4319.84] if we're not responding to the gospel truth -[4319.84 --> 4320.96] of Jesus Christ. -[4321.04 --> 4322.20] We all must look to our sin -[4322.20 --> 4323.86] and repent and give our sins -[4323.86 --> 4325.32] over to Jesus every day. -[4325.68 --> 4327.78] That is why we have a time of confession -[4327.78 --> 4329.56] in our services every Sunday. -[4329.56 --> 4330.92] to repent. -[4331.38 --> 4332.46] To look into our hearts. -[4333.76 --> 4336.24] We all need to take a good look at our own lives -[4336.24 --> 4338.44] because as Jesus says in the lead up to this parable -[4338.44 --> 4339.80] unless you repent -[4339.80 --> 4344.36] we cannot live lives of presumed privilege -[4344.36 --> 4345.74] like the Jews in this story. -[4346.84 --> 4349.38] We must recognize that we are to come humbly -[4349.38 --> 4350.92] to the foot of the cross -[4350.92 --> 4352.22] before Jesus' throne -[4352.22 --> 4353.70] and ask for forgiveness -[4353.70 --> 4356.38] and then trust and know -[4356.38 --> 4359.68] in his gospel truth that we are saved. -[4360.56 --> 4361.74] Jesus has done the work. -[4363.46 --> 4364.74] We will not perish. -[4365.60 --> 4366.48] That's the parable. -[4368.26 --> 4369.96] Like the tree, our end is near -[4369.96 --> 4371.44] but our hope is in him. -[4371.82 --> 4373.92] Renewal has come from outside of us. -[4374.14 --> 4375.06] It's nothing we did. -[4375.26 --> 4376.36] It's what Jesus did. -[4377.30 --> 4378.46] In the vine dresser's work. -[4378.56 --> 4379.58] This work has been done. -[4379.84 --> 4381.00] The soil's been dug out. -[4381.28 --> 4382.82] The renewal is happening. -[4383.30 --> 4384.76] The manure has been spread. -[4384.76 --> 4384.90] It's not. -[4387.22 --> 4388.78] So let's take a deep breath -[4388.78 --> 4391.20] and know what Jesus has done for us. -[4391.84 --> 4394.42] Know that if we truly believe in the work of Jesus -[4394.42 --> 4396.16] our story doesn't end either. -[4396.84 --> 4398.42] And when we know this truth -[4398.42 --> 4399.96] we will respond. -[4400.84 --> 4403.84] We'll respond in humble repentance -[4403.84 --> 4405.88] and bold faith. -[4407.04 --> 4409.12] We'll respond by living each day -[4409.12 --> 4410.88] in such a way that we'll have no fear -[4410.88 --> 4412.62] in giving account before God -[4412.62 --> 4414.02] because through our repentance -[4414.02 --> 4415.86] all our sins are forgiven. -[4417.64 --> 4419.78] We'll respond by living each day -[4419.78 --> 4421.80] knowing that Jesus has brought our salvation -[4421.80 --> 4423.28] because of the gospel truth -[4423.28 --> 4425.54] of his life and his death and his resurrection. -[4426.92 --> 4429.34] And we'll respond by living each day -[4429.34 --> 4431.10] sharing this gospel truth -[4431.10 --> 4433.10] in word and in deed -[4433.10 --> 4435.00] in the world around us. -[4435.00 --> 4436.88] And when we do that -[4436.88 --> 4439.12] we will bear much fruit for him. -[4439.66 --> 4439.96] Amen? -[4441.02 --> 4441.78] Let me pray. -[4445.02 --> 4446.44] Father God we are so grateful -[4446.44 --> 4447.98] that our story does not end. -[4449.12 --> 4451.48] Lord we thank you for what you did -[4451.48 --> 4452.42] in this world -[4452.42 --> 4453.12] for your life -[4453.12 --> 4453.72] your death -[4453.72 --> 4454.76] and your resurrection -[4454.76 --> 4455.64] and that we know -[4455.64 --> 4457.16] that you are constantly -[4457.16 --> 4458.12] through your Holy Spirit -[4458.12 --> 4459.12] renewing our hearts -[4459.12 --> 4460.28] and renewing our minds -[4460.28 --> 4461.96] sanctifying us -[4461.96 --> 4463.00] in this world. -[4464.00 --> 4464.74] And God -[4464.74 --> 4466.46] may we not be distracted -[4466.46 --> 4469.98] by those around us -[4469.98 --> 4471.90] by the sins of the world -[4471.90 --> 4476.00] or assuming that we have -[4476.00 --> 4477.12] a higher privilege -[4477.12 --> 4477.98] than anyone else. -[4479.34 --> 4480.94] God but may we humbly -[4480.94 --> 4482.38] submit to you -[4482.38 --> 4483.54] may we humbly repent -[4483.54 --> 4484.24] of our sins -[4484.24 --> 4485.74] and out of that humility -[4485.74 --> 4487.04] may we step out boldly -[4487.04 --> 4488.54] to proclaim your truth -[4488.54 --> 4489.52] your gospel truth -[4489.52 --> 4490.46] to the world around us. -[4490.46 --> 4492.36] God give us the courage -[4492.36 --> 4492.90] the faith -[4492.90 --> 4496.36] and the moment -[4496.36 --> 4497.42] to do that well. -[4498.44 --> 4499.34] We pray this in your son's -[4499.34 --> 4499.92] precious name. -[4500.08 --> 4500.28] Amen. -[4510.08 --> 4511.40] Please stand with us. -[4511.40 --> 4529.04] Be my guide -[4529.04 --> 4530.80] God of Abraham -[4530.80 --> 4533.44] Lead me by your hand -[4533.44 --> 4536.36] You are strong and wise -[4536.36 --> 4540.44] I want to trust in you -[4540.44 --> 4542.54] And in all I do -[4542.54 --> 4545.70] bring you honor and praise -[4545.70 --> 4549.26] Oh I love you -[4549.26 --> 4555.00] Great and mighty King -[4555.00 --> 4557.64] You are faithful -[4557.64 --> 4562.16] Through the ages -[4562.16 --> 4565.54] You never change -[4565.54 --> 4570.96] Be my guide -[4570.96 --> 4572.96] In the dark of night -[4572.96 --> 4575.18] Settle fears to flight -[4575.18 --> 4577.76] You are hope and truth -[4577.76 --> 4582.26] I want to trust in you -[4582.26 --> 4584.42] And in all I do -[4584.42 --> 4584.44] And in all I do -[4584.44 --> 4587.72] Bring you honor and praise -[4587.72 --> 4591.16] How I love you -[4591.16 --> 4596.78] Great and mighty King -[4596.78 --> 4599.32] You are faithful -[4599.32 --> 4603.84] Through the ages -[4603.84 --> 4603.96] Through the ages -[4603.96 --> 4607.26] You never change -[4607.26 --> 4612.56] Be my guide -[4612.56 --> 4614.62] For the road ahead -[4614.62 --> 4616.96] And should I feel misled -[4616.96 --> 4620.04] You are just and good -[4620.04 --> 4624.00] I want to trust in you -[4624.00 --> 4624.06] I want to trust in you -[4624.06 --> 4626.16] And in all I do -[4626.16 --> 4629.46] Bring you honor and praise -[4629.46 --> 4633.44] How I love you -[4633.44 --> 4638.64] Great and mighty King -[4638.64 --> 4641.20] You are faithful -[4641.20 --> 4645.88] Through the ages -[4645.88 --> 4648.28] You never change -[4648.28 --> 4651.32] How I love you -[4651.32 --> 4657.18] Great and mighty King -[4657.18 --> 4659.82] You are faithful -[4659.82 --> 4664.16] Through the ages -[4664.16 --> 4668.12] You never change -[4668.12 --> 4678.50] And so this guy -[4678.50 --> 4679.88] Waited in a long line -[4679.88 --> 4680.58] For his tux -[4680.58 --> 4681.38] And a long line -[4681.38 --> 4682.00] For his shoes -[4682.00 --> 4682.86] And a long line -[4682.86 --> 4683.56] For his flowers -[4683.56 --> 4684.40] And his limo -[4684.40 --> 4685.02] And the prom -[4685.02 --> 4685.50] And then he gets -[4685.50 --> 4686.62] Into prom with his date -[4686.62 --> 4687.74] And his date wants some food -[4687.74 --> 4688.70] And he goes to get her food -[4688.70 --> 4689.90] And there's this long line -[4689.90 --> 4690.42] For food -[4690.42 --> 4691.06] And he has to wait -[4691.06 --> 4691.50] For the food -[4691.50 --> 4692.18] And wait for the food -[4692.18 --> 4693.64] And then his date -[4693.64 --> 4694.28] Wants some punch -[4694.28 --> 4695.24] And he goes to get some punch -[4695.24 --> 4696.00] And there's no punch line -[4696.00 --> 4700.84] That is a joke -[4700.84 --> 4701.68] If you find yourself -[4701.68 --> 4702.50] MCing something -[4702.50 --> 4703.24] Or needing to kill -[4703.24 --> 4704.24] Like 15 minutes -[4704.24 --> 4705.36] You can just -[4705.36 --> 4706.68] He can wait in a long line -[4706.68 --> 4707.90] For a lot of stuff -[4707.90 --> 4709.22] And then at the end -[4709.22 --> 4710.00] You drop the punch line -[4710.00 --> 4712.60] As we leave this place -[4712.60 --> 4714.14] And as we go into this week -[4714.14 --> 4715.30] Let us remember -[4715.30 --> 4716.60] That we belong -[4716.60 --> 4717.44] Both body and soul -[4717.44 --> 4718.32] To Jesus Christ -[4718.32 --> 4719.10] And that he has come -[4719.10 --> 4719.80] To renew us -[4719.80 --> 4721.20] And that we can repent -[4721.20 --> 4721.74] Of our sins -[4721.74 --> 4722.44] And we are forgiven -[4722.44 --> 4723.30] In his name -[4723.30 --> 4724.64] Because of what he has done -[4724.64 --> 4725.62] On the cross -[4725.62 --> 4726.36] So let us go -[4726.36 --> 4728.90] And proclaim this truth boldly -[4728.90 --> 4730.22] And please go -[4730.22 --> 4731.22] With the parting blessing -[4731.22 --> 4732.28] Found in number six -[4732.28 --> 4734.04] The Lord bless you -[4734.04 --> 4734.92] And keep you -[4734.92 --> 4736.64] The Lord make his face -[4736.64 --> 4737.54] Shine upon you -[4737.54 --> 4738.66] And be gracious to you -[4738.66 --> 4740.44] The Lord turn his face -[4740.44 --> 4741.12] Toward you -[4741.12 --> 4743.06] And give you his peace -[4743.06 --> 4744.64] And all God's people said -[4744.64 --> 4745.90] Amen -[4745.90 --> 4769.56] Sing a song of celebration -[4769.56 --> 4773.30] Lift up a shout of praise -[4773.30 --> 4776.30] For the bridegroom will come -[4776.30 --> 4780.30] The glorious one -[4780.30 --> 4785.48] And oh -[4785.48 --> 4790.12] We will look on his face -[4790.12 --> 4794.72] We'll go -[4794.72 --> 4800.60] To a much better place -[4800.60 --> 4806.24] Dance with all your might -[4806.24 --> 4808.70] Lift up your hands -[4808.70 --> 4810.88] And clap for joy -[4810.88 --> 4813.78] The time's drawing near -[4813.78 --> 4818.38] When he will appear -[4818.38 --> 4819.38] When he will appear -[4819.38 --> 4822.52] And oh -[4822.52 --> 4828.52] We'll stand by his side -[4828.52 --> 4832.38] A strong -[4832.38 --> 4836.88] Your spotless pride -[4836.88 --> 4842.48] We will dance -[4842.48 --> 4843.20] On the streets -[4843.20 --> 4844.52] That are golden -[4844.52 --> 4847.16] The glorious bride -[4847.16 --> 4849.04] And the great son of man -[4849.04 --> 4851.72] From every tongue -[4851.72 --> 4852.96] And tribe -[4852.96 --> 4853.80] And nation -[4853.80 --> 4855.20] Will join -[4855.20 --> 4859.88] In the song of the Lamb -[4859.88 --> 4864.88] Sing aloud -[4864.88 --> 4865.54] Sing aloud -[4865.54 --> 4866.90] For the time -[4866.90 --> 4869.10] Of rejoicing is near -[4869.10 --> 4869.88] Sing aloud -[4869.88 --> 4870.88] For the time -[4870.88 --> 4872.68] Of rejoicing is near -[4872.68 --> 4875.04] The risen King -[4875.04 --> 4875.88] Our groom -[4875.88 --> 4878.32] Is soon to appear -[4878.32 --> 4879.00] The risen King -[4879.00 --> 4879.88] Our groom -[4879.88 --> 4880.88] Is soon to appear -[4880.88 --> 4884.36] The wedding feast -[4884.36 --> 4884.88] To come -[4885.64 --> 4888.36] Is now near at hand -[4888.36 --> 4893.76] Lift up your voice -[4893.76 --> 4897.04] Proclaim the coming land -[4897.04 --> 4898.50] Lift up your voice -[4898.50 --> 4901.36] Proclaim the coming land -[4901.36 --> 4904.76] We will dance -[4904.76 --> 4907.76] On the streets -[4907.76 --> 4908.76] That are golden -[4908.76 --> 4911.76] The glorious bride -[4911.76 --> 4913.40] And the great son of man -[4913.40 --> 4918.68] We will dance -[4918.68 --> 4920.64] On the streets -[4920.64 --> 4922.84] That are golden -[4922.84 --> 4924.68] The glorious bride -[4924.68 --> 4927.34] And the great son of man -[4927.34 --> 4930.00] From every tongue -[4930.00 --> 4931.00] And tribe -[4931.00 --> 4932.00] And nation -[4932.00 --> 4933.40] Will join -[4933.40 --> 4936.56] In the song -[4936.56 --> 4937.00] Of the -[4937.00 --> 4939.04] We will dance -[4939.04 --> 4939.82] On the streets -[4939.82 --> 4941.10] That are golden -[4941.10 --> 4943.00] The glorious bride -[4943.64 --> 4945.58] And the great son of man -[4945.58 --> 4948.22] From every tongue -[4948.22 --> 4949.42] And tribe -[4949.42 --> 4950.24] And nation -[4950.24 --> 4952.00] Will join -[4952.00 --> 4954.80] In the song -[4954.80 --> 4972.84] In the song -[4972.84 --> 4973.90] Morning -[4973.90 --> 4974.84] Peter -[4974.84 --> 4976.62] The -[4976.62 --> 4978.62] French -[4978.62 --> 4979.36] King -[4979.36 --> 4980.26] King -[4981.20 --> 4981.42] OK! -[5003.20 --> 5005.32] imm immmm happening -[5010.26 --> 5015.80] I'll just praise it if you pass me up tonight -[5015.80 --> 5023.74] All this time, can't get it up for mine -[5023.74 --> 5027.54] Can't stand either way, keep rocking when the groove's on right -[5027.54 --> 5030.88] Rock it all night, I wanna hear you say -[5030.88 --> 5034.08] All the girls and the boys and people making noise -[5034.08 --> 5035.42] Just let me hear you shout -[5035.42 --> 5039.24] Pump up your fist if you twist like this -[5039.24 --> 5040.66] The lights go out -[5040.66 --> 5041.90] Wake up, wake up -[5041.90 --> 5046.54] Wake up, I'm calling you up, I need a ride -[5046.54 --> 5051.64] We're gonna shake up, so hurry it up, no way to thrive -[5051.64 --> 5053.58] The girls and the makeup -[5053.58 --> 5054.88] Black black and white -[5054.88 --> 5057.18] They're changing looks tonight -[5057.18 --> 5060.16] I just ran into some other friends of mine -[5060.16 --> 5062.96] Someone's coming around and picking my bed line -[5062.96 --> 5065.36] Hey, hey, hey, hey -[5065.36 --> 5068.20] Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey -[5068.20 --> 5070.68] All this time, can't get it up for mine -[5070.68 --> 5074.50] Get the night away, keep rocking when the groove's on right -[5074.50 --> 5077.78] Rock it all night, I wanna hear you say -[5077.78 --> 5078.62] Hey, hey, hey, hey -[5078.62 --> 5081.12] All this time, can't get it up for mine -[5081.12 --> 5084.92] Get the night away, keep rocking when the groove's on right -[5084.92 --> 5087.60] Rock it all night, just shake it, shake it up -[5087.60 --> 5089.60] Everybody move to the beat, come on -[5089.60 --> 5094.02] Everybody move to the beat, come on -[5094.02 --> 5096.78] Everybody move to the beat, come on -[5096.78 --> 5099.20] Everybody rock to the break of dawn -[5099.20 --> 5101.86] Everybody else just sing along -[5101.86 --> 5114.44] Everybody move to the beat, come on -[5114.44 --> 5117.68] Everybody move to the beat, come on -[5117.68 --> 5120.10] Everybody rock to the break of dawn -[5120.10 --> 5122.72] Everybody else just sing along -[5122.72 --> 5136.04] All this time, can't get it up for mine -[5136.04 --> 5137.20] Get the night away -[5137.20 --> 5139.20] When the groove's on right -[5139.20 --> 5143.20] Rock it all night, I wanna hear you say -[5143.20 --> 5146.44] All this time, can't get it up for mine -[5146.44 --> 5148.38] Get the night away -[5148.38 --> 5150.06] When the groove's on right -[5150.16 --> 5153.74] Rock it all night, I wanna hear you say -[5153.74 --> 5156.72] All the girls and the boys -[5156.72 --> 5158.02] The people making noise -[5158.02 --> 5159.30] Just let me hear you shout -[5159.30 --> 5160.56] Bring it out! Bring it out! -[5160.74 --> 5161.86] Bleg up your fist -[5161.86 --> 5168.92] Music When the Joov Note -[5168.92 --> 5169.72] We hear you shout. -[5169.80 --> 5171.02] Bring him out, bring him out. -[5171.14 --> 5174.98] Put on your feet and you trip like this till the lights go out. -[5175.02 --> 5176.28] Bring him out, bring him out. -[5198.92 --> 5214.48] All the girls in the bathroom talking. -[5214.74 --> 5217.34] Who they gonna take to this Sadie Hawkins? -[5217.42 --> 5220.16] My ears are burning, but I kept on walking. -[5220.38 --> 5223.02] Smile on my face and an air guitar rocking. -[5223.50 --> 5226.20] This Sadie Hawkins dance in my khaki pants. -[5226.20 --> 5227.32] There's nothing better. -[5227.32 --> 5229.08] Oh, oh, oh. -[5229.32 --> 5231.90] Girls ask the guys, it's always a surprise. -[5232.12 --> 5233.26] There's nothing better, baby. -[5233.38 --> 5234.38] Do you like my sweater? -[5234.78 --> 5237.52] Sitting in the back of my next class napping. -[5237.74 --> 5240.30] Got up, gave a speech, then bowed to the clapping. -[5240.58 --> 5243.20] Told a funny joke, got the whole class laughing. -[5243.44 --> 5246.12] Think I got a tan from the light which I was basking. -[5246.52 --> 5249.20] This Sadie Hawkins dance in my khaki pants. -[5249.38 --> 5250.26] There's nothing better. -[5250.98 --> 5252.06] Oh, oh, oh. -[5252.32 --> 5254.88] Girls ask the guys, it's always a surprise. -[5254.88 --> 5256.26] There's nothing better, baby. -[5256.26 --> 5257.38] Do you love my sweater? -[5257.38 --> 5257.42] Do you love my sweater? -[5257.42 --> 5259.80] Do you love it? -[5259.80 --> 5260.42] ? -[5260.42 --> 5261.42] Do you love it? -[5261.50 --> 5262.76] Do you love it? -[5262.76 --> 5263.18] Well, then we love it. -[5263.18 --> 5263.66] Yeah. -[5263.66 --> 5265.16] Here we go. -[5267.16 --> 5267.76] By the way you can wear it. -[5267.76 --> 5268.64] . -[5269.44 --> 5270.26] Come inside. -[5270.26 --> 5275.18] Look, love it. -[5275.18 --> 5275.74] Okay. -[5276.14 --> 5276.94] Yes, yes. -[5276.94 --> 5277.64] Thank you, Jamie. -[5277.78 --> 5278.34] I'm the whoopsie. -[5278.86 --> 5280.36] And I'm theθη of you, and I was the wouw episode. -[5280.66 --> 5281.20] I've never believed in that. -[5281.20 --> 5283.96] Skinned the cafeteria for some good seating. -[5284.12 --> 5286.92] I found a good spot by the cheerleaders' seating. -[5286.92 --> 5289.98] The quarterback asked me if I'd like a beating -[5289.98 --> 5292.96] I said that's one thing I won't be needing -[5292.96 --> 5295.96] And since I'm rather smart and cunning -[5295.96 --> 5299.04] I took up down the next hall running -[5299.04 --> 5302.04] Only to get stopped by a girl so stunning -[5302.04 --> 5305.84] Only to get stopped by a girl so stunning -[5305.84 --> 5307.34] She said you're smooth -[5307.34 --> 5310.38] And good with talking -[5310.38 --> 5313.30] You go with me -[5313.30 --> 5316.90] To the Sadie Hawkins -[5316.90 --> 5318.36] There's Sadie Hawkins dance -[5319.32 --> 5321.28] It's nothing better -[5321.28 --> 5324.48] Curls, ask, the guys -[5324.48 --> 5325.90] It's always a surprise -[5325.90 --> 5326.94] There's nothing better -[5326.94 --> 5328.42] Baby, do you like my sweater? -[5329.06 --> 5330.30] The Sadie Hawkins dance -[5330.30 --> 5331.70] And my khaki pants -[5331.70 --> 5332.84] There's nothing better -[5332.84 --> 5335.96] Curls, ask, the guys -[5335.96 --> 5337.40] It's always a surprise -[5337.40 --> 5338.44] There's nothing better -[5338.44 --> 5340.86] Baby, do you like my sweater? -[5346.90 --> 5376.88] Thank you. -[5376.90 --> 5406.88] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 24, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 24, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b4df9f3242160ae80d4dba5bff357692265f858f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 24, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,103 +0,0 @@ -• The power of praise and worship in the face of adversity -• Hope and victory over death and darkness -• Personal relationship with Jesus Christ as a source of love and redemption -• God's faithfulness and sovereignty despite personal struggles and doubts -• Worship and surrender to God, even in the midst of challenges and uncertainties -• Worship service begins with a song and prayer -• Pastor Chris welcomes visitors and encourages them to fill out connection cards -• Psalm 89 is read as the call to worship -• Psalm 89 is discussed in detail, highlighting God's greatness, love, faithfulness, and power -• A prayer is offered, expressing gratitude for God's presence and blessings -• Invocation of God's holiness and majesty -• Call to worship and praise of God -• Expression of devotion and adoration for God -• Prayers for spiritual awakening and renewal -• Announcement of the day's offerings and charities -• Reading of scripture (Isaiah 1:17, Micah 6:8) -• Piano music plays softly during the beginning of the service -• Pastor talks about children's worship time for kids aged 3-5 -• Pastor mentions that others will be listening to his sermon on the parable of the Good Samaritan -• The pastor prays for the congregation, asking God to bless them and guide their teachers -• A blessing is given to the children present in the service -• Elder Darrell leads a church family prayer, praising God and asking for comfort, healing, and guidance for those in need -• Praying for church leaders to be inspired by God and lead with humility -• Introducing the parable of the Good Samaritan from Luke 10 -• Explaining the context of Jesus' answer to a question about inheriting eternal life -• Reading the story of the expert in the law asking who his neighbor is, and Jesus' response -• Discussing the parable's message about showing mercy and love to others -• The parable of the Good Samaritan will be discussed with an emphasis on its critique of religious people -• Oversimplifying the parable can lead to missing its true meaning and theological significance -• Parables are intentionally confusing, making them complex and open to interpretation -• The speaker plans to dig deep into the parable, using it as a way to explore theological points in everyday life -• Three questions will be used to structure the discussion: how love for God is made real, who one's neighbor is, and how the Good Samaritan changes one's life. -• Jesus asks an expert in the law to summarize the law -• The expert gives a summary of loving God and loving one's neighbor as oneself, citing Deuteronomy and Leviticus -• Jesus' summary order is inverted from traditional scripture order -• Jesus' intention may be to emphasize that love for God must come first before being able to love others -• The love of God fills us and flows out to others -• Sinners/enemies vs. loved/chosen, as seen in Romans 5 and Ephesians 1 -• We love because He first loved us (1 John 4:19) -• God's love affects our affections for Him -• Living and doing what is right are consequences of knowing God's love -• The importance of loving one's neighbor, including strangers and enemies -• The distinction between loving God and following religious practices or being committed to certain institutions -• The need for parables to pierce through societal norms and allow us to see with the eyes of God -• The potential for unconscious biases and presumptions, such as racism, that can prevent us from truly loving others -• Criticism of making assumptions based on someone's perspective or opinions -• Comparison between "left leaning" and "right leaning" people being painted with the same brush -• Discussion of intellectual hubris in community relationships -• Quote from James (Chapter 1, Verse 19) emphasizing the importance of listening and speaking slowly -• Analysis of underlying anger or emotions that may be present but not apparent -• Reflection on the need to show love to others as an expression of loving God -• The transformative power of God's love to change individuals into His image -• The importance of unconditional love as a fundamental aspect of being Jesus' disciples -• Love must still have expectations, and obedience to God is a demonstration of that love -• The love of God is evident in one's obedience to him, which is also described as obedience to his commandments -• There are dangers in having expectations without love, such as abuse of power or tyranny -• A biblical theology example given: sinners/enemies are loved by God and equals obedient servants -• The importance of gratitude and response to what God has done and who he is -• The Jericho road was a major route between Jericho and Jerusalem -• It's a 17-mile hike with treacherous terrain, including cliffs and switchbacks -• The road was known for being a place where robbers would ambush travelers -• Jesus likely referenced this road in the biblical story of the Good Samaritan -• Jesus is saying that strict adherence to religious rules and ideas of purity can be more important than charity -• When our ideas of purity outweigh our actions, we've missed the mark of the gospel -• The opinions of people we know are often prioritized over the lives of those we may not yet know -• True faith is demonstrated by effective action in one's life, rather than simply knowing about it -• Becoming self-justifying and focused on religious expertise can lead to missing the heart of the gospel -• The genius of a parable lies in its inversion, not its structure -• Parables often subvert expectations and conventions -• The story of the Good Samaritan is based on historical events, specifically the exile of Jews to Babylon -• After being exiled, some Jews remained behind in the region near Jerusalem and intermarried with the indigenous population -• This led to the formation of a new tribe, the Samaritans, who combined elements of Jewish and Canaanite religion -• The Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible -• Samaritans' religion, mixed with Canaanite religion and Baal and Asherah worship -• Jews considering Samaritans racially inferior due to intermarriage -• A Samaritan as a hero in a biblical story, an inversion of expectations -• Jesus asking "who is my neighbor?" in response to the expert's question about justification -• The parable of the Good Samaritan and its implications -• The parable of the Good Samaritan and Jesus' question about who is a neighbor -• Justo Gonzalez, historian and theologian, interprets Jesus' final injunction to the lawyer -• Becoming a neighbor involves going beyond just loving and serving those near us, but also drawing near to those who may seem alien or different from us -• The story emphasizes that being a good neighbor is not about figuring out who our neighbors are, but about how we can be neighborly to everyone. -• The speaker talks about the importance of serving others and being selfless, citing examples from their own family. -• The story of the Good Samaritan is mentioned as an example of how we should treat others with love and kindness. -• The speaker encourages children to take responsibility for cleaning up after themselves and including others in play. -• Adults are also encouraged to model good behavior by treating others with love and respect. -• God's love is big enough to include sinners and enemies -• The parable of the Good Samaritan teaches that loving God means loving neighbors, strangers, and even enemies -• Misinterpreting the parable as a checklist of things to do can lead to feeling burdened with guilt and inadequacy -• Jesus is the ultimate good Samaritan who heals us from sin and death, takes our shame, and clothes us with his righteousness -• The concept of inheritance is discussed in the context of Jesus' death and resurrection -• The question of what it means to live a life like Jesus is explored -• Being a neighbor to others, as exemplified by the Good Samaritan story, is seen as an essential aspect of living a life like Jesus -• The love of God is made real in the world through the actions of believers who are transformed by their relationship with Jesus -• Prayer and dependence on God's power are emphasized as means to live out this new life. -• Repeated statements of intention to follow God's calling -• Acknowledgment of privilege and pain, with a desire for spiritual sight -• Expression of willingness to serve the poor, lost, and lonely -• Desire to live for God and follow His will -• Requests for guidance, protection, and support from God -• Encouragement to receive the blessing of God's presence -• Sermon or prayer time, with blessings and affirmations -• Personal testimony of redemption and forgiveness through Christ \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 24, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 24, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 83dacbfe6431fa88d82fc26c86fc656c7a488ae0..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 24, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2332 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 4.08] You're gonna hear my praises roar -[4.08 --> 9.76] Up from the ashes, hope will arise -[9.76 --> 16.00] Death is defeated, the King is alive -[16.00 --> 27.72] I raise a hallelujah -[27.72 --> 33.86] With everything inside me -[33.86 --> 39.46] I raise a hallelujah -[39.46 --> 45.66] I will watch the darkness flee -[45.66 --> 51.14] I raise a hallelujah -[51.14 --> 56.94] In the middle of the mystery -[56.94 --> 63.08] I raise a hallelujah -[63.08 --> 68.94] I feel you lost your hold on me -[68.94 --> 75.08] I'm gonna sing -[75.08 --> 77.08] In the middle of the storm -[77.08 --> 79.88] Louder and louder -[79.88 --> 83.08] You're gonna hear my praises roar -[83.08 --> 88.08] Up from the ashes, hope will arise -[88.08 --> 94.22] I'm gonna hear my praises roar -[94.22 --> 96.22] I'm gonna hear my praises roar -[96.22 --> 102.36] Sing a little louder -[102.36 --> 104.36] In the presence of my enemies -[104.36 --> 107.16] Sing a little louder -[107.16 --> 110.36] Louder than the unbelief -[110.36 --> 112.36] Sing a little louder -[112.36 --> 115.50] My weapon is a melody -[115.50 --> 118.50] Sing a little louder -[118.50 --> 120.64] Heaven come to fight for me -[120.64 --> 124.64] Sing a little louder -[124.64 --> 126.64] I'm gonna sing -[126.64 --> 130.78] I'm gonna sing in the middle of the storm -[130.78 --> 132.78] I'm gonna sing in the middle of the storm -[132.78 --> 134.78] I'm gonna sing in the presence of my enemies -[134.78 --> 136.78] Sing a little louder -[136.78 --> 142.92] I'm gonna sing in the middle of the storm -[142.92 --> 144.92] I'm gonna sing in the middle of the storm -[144.92 --> 146.92] Sing a little louder -[146.92 --> 150.92] I'm gonna sing in the middle of the storm -[150.92 --> 151.92] In the middle of the storm -[151.92 --> 152.92] In the middle of the storm -[152.92 --> 153.92] Louder and louder -[153.92 --> 155.92] Louder and louder -[155.92 --> 158.92] You're gonna hear my praises roar -[158.92 --> 163.92] Up from the ashes, hope will arise -[163.92 --> 169.92] Death is defeated, the King is alive -[169.92 --> 171.92] Tomorrow -[171.92 --> 172.92] Tomorrow -[172.92 --> 173.92] Tomorrow -[173.92 --> 175.92] Tomorrow -[175.92 --> 200.54] Mao Zedong -[205.92 --> 209.76] that you've painted for me -[209.76 --> 214.94] a love letter in the sky -[214.94 --> 220.66] Story -[220.66 --> 226.44] I could have had a really different story -[226.44 --> 232.74] But you came down from heaven to restore me -[232.74 --> 238.14] Forever saved my life -[238.14 --> 247.32] Nobody loves me like you love me, Jesus -[247.32 --> 253.32] I stand in awe of your amazing ways -[253.32 --> 258.82] I worship you as long as I am breathing -[258.82 --> 262.36] God, you are faithful and true -[262.36 --> 265.76] Nobody loves me like you -[265.76 --> 272.44] Mountains -[272.44 --> 278.26] You're breaking down the weight of all my mountains -[278.26 --> 283.66] Even when it feels like I'm surrounded -[283.66 --> 289.66] You never leave my side -[289.66 --> 299.06] Nobody loves me like you love me, Jesus -[299.06 --> 304.74] I stand in awe of your amazing ways -[304.74 --> 310.58] I worship you as long as I am breathing -[310.58 --> 314.04] God, you are faithful and true -[314.04 --> 317.44] Nobody loves me like you -[317.44 --> 320.14] Who ordered you because I will ask you -[320.14 --> 321.44] weakest and rudy -[321.44 --> 322.44] American смог -[322.44 --> 322.84] God, you are faithful -[322.84 --> 323.84] Let us love you -[323.84 --> 325.44] God, you are faithful and true -[325.44 --> 326.96] camino -[327.48 --> 327.92] jeste with sovereign -[327.92 --> 328.70] God, you are faithful and true -[328.70 --> 329.48] You are faithful toarken -[329.48 --> 329.88] You are faithful to Vishal -[329.88 --> 330.88] Looking back and empty -[330.88 --> 331.22] Dreams that you wish -[331.22 --> 331.72] uras your hätten -[331.72 --> 332.50] I-me im but is faithful to your -[332.50 --> 333.66] 그러니까 you were faithful to your -[333.66 --> 335.66] Sometimes you are faithful to your -[335.66 --> 336.84] cooperative and partner -[336.84 --> 337.48] How do youém be faithful? -[337.48 --> 338.20] I kind of faith -[338.20 --> 338.84] alez -[347.44 --> 350.44] My heart keeps singing -[350.44 --> 354.66] Oh, what a song you sing -[354.66 --> 360.70] Oh, what a song you sing -[360.70 --> 362.20] I'll never stop -[362.20 --> 366.14] Oh, what a song you sing -[366.14 --> 369.88] Jesus, you love me -[369.88 --> 372.80] And I love you, God -[372.80 --> 379.54] Nobody loves me like you love me, Jesus -[379.54 --> 385.16] I stand in all your amazing ways -[385.16 --> 391.06] I worship you as long as I am relieved -[391.06 --> 394.22] God, I will worship you -[394.22 --> 396.78] Whoever worship you -[396.78 --> 402.54] Nobody loves me like you love me, Jesus -[402.54 --> 408.28] I stand in all your amazing ways -[408.28 --> 414.28] I worship you as long as I am relieved -[414.28 --> 417.52] God, you are faithful and true -[417.52 --> 420.28] Nobody loves me like you -[420.28 --> 424.28] Nobody loves me like you love me, Jesus -[424.28 --> 430.02] I'm a child of God, you are faithful and true -[430.02 --> 432.02] Yes, I am -[432.02 --> 438.02] Nobody loves me like you, nobody loves me like you -[438.02 --> 451.76] Who am I? -[451.76 --> 465.14] Who am I? -[465.14 --> 470.50] Who am I that the highest king would welcome me? -[470.50 --> 475.64] I was lost, but he brought me in -[475.64 --> 478.24] Oh, his love for me -[478.24 --> 482.24] Oh, his love for me -[482.24 --> 487.18] Oh, the song sets free -[487.18 --> 491.38] Oh, is free in thee -[491.38 --> 497.12] I'm a child of God, yes, I am -[497.12 --> 498.12] Yes, I am -[498.12 --> 504.92] Every last he has ransomed me -[504.92 --> 508.12] His grace runs deep -[508.12 --> 512.86] While I was a slave to sin -[512.86 --> 515.86] Jesus died for me -[515.86 --> 520.86] Yes, he died for me -[520.86 --> 521.86] Yes, he died for me -[521.86 --> 524.86] And the song sets free -[524.86 --> 528.86] Oh, is free in thee -[528.86 --> 536.60] I'm a child of God, yes, I am -[536.60 --> 541.92] In my Father's house -[541.92 --> 545.86] There's a place for me -[545.86 --> 552.60] I'm a child of God, yes, I am -[552.60 --> 558.76] I am chosen, not forsaken -[558.76 --> 562.56] I am who you say I am -[562.56 --> 567.42] You are for me, not against me -[567.42 --> 570.90] I am who you say I am -[570.90 --> 575.54] I am chosen, not forsaken -[575.54 --> 579.28] I am who you say I am -[579.28 --> 585.16] Good morning -[585.16 --> 588.90] Welcome to church -[588.90 --> 591.24] If you're visiting with us this morning -[591.24 --> 593.84] We are really grateful that you are here -[593.84 --> 596.96] And that you've decided to join us in worship -[596.96 --> 598.62] My name is Chris -[598.62 --> 600.46] I'm one of the pastors here -[600.46 --> 602.64] And myself and a few others -[602.64 --> 607.32] Are really excited to lead you all in worship this morning -[607.32 --> 609.12] If you are visiting with us -[609.12 --> 610.80] Whether this is your first time here -[610.80 --> 612.86] Or you've been checking us out for a while -[612.86 --> 615.82] We want to encourage you to grab one of these cards -[615.82 --> 618.62] Fill it out so that we might connect with you -[618.62 --> 620.06] Or there's a digital version -[620.06 --> 621.28] You can scan with your phone -[621.28 --> 624.00] That gives us an opportunity to reach out to you -[624.00 --> 625.72] See how we might pray for you -[625.72 --> 627.14] How we might connect with you -[627.14 --> 630.52] And how we can see where you plug in here -[630.52 --> 631.70] In our church family -[631.70 --> 635.42] As we gather for worship today -[635.42 --> 638.28] We are privileged to sing and to pray -[638.28 --> 640.00] And to hear from our God -[640.00 --> 643.14] And he is in our midst -[643.14 --> 644.34] And so as you're able -[644.34 --> 644.96] And where you are -[644.96 --> 645.96] I'm going to invite you to stand -[645.96 --> 648.44] We can be greeted by God -[648.44 --> 650.04] And ushered into his presence -[650.04 --> 653.40] Receive the greeting -[653.40 --> 654.86] Of our good God -[654.86 --> 656.54] Grace -[656.54 --> 658.20] Mercy -[658.20 --> 659.84] And peace to you -[659.84 --> 661.62] From God our Father -[661.62 --> 663.30] From the Lord Jesus Christ -[663.30 --> 664.00] His Son -[664.00 --> 664.94] And our Savior -[664.94 --> 666.22] Through the presence -[666.22 --> 666.98] And power -[666.98 --> 668.36] Of the Holy Spirit -[668.36 --> 669.96] Amen -[669.96 --> 671.86] Let's worship God together -[671.86 --> 675.36] Our call to worship today -[675.36 --> 676.72] Comes from Psalm 89 -[676.72 --> 680.10] I will sing of the Lord's great love forever -[680.10 --> 681.18] With my mouth -[681.18 --> 682.82] I will make your faithfulness known -[682.82 --> 683.98] Through all generations -[683.98 --> 686.72] The heavens praise your wonders Lord -[686.72 --> 688.12] Your faithfulness too -[688.12 --> 689.88] In the assembly of the Holy Ones -[689.88 --> 691.80] For who in the skies above -[691.80 --> 693.06] Can compare with the Lord -[693.06 --> 694.78] Who is like you -[694.78 --> 695.70] Lord God Almighty -[695.70 --> 697.38] You Lord are mighty -[697.38 --> 699.14] And your faithfulness surrounds you -[699.14 --> 701.32] You rule over the surging sea -[701.32 --> 702.94] When its waves mount up -[702.94 --> 703.72] You still them -[703.72 --> 705.64] The heavens are yours -[705.64 --> 707.74] And yours also the earth -[707.74 --> 709.34] You founded the world -[709.34 --> 710.48] And all that is in it -[710.48 --> 712.32] Praise be the Lord forever -[712.32 --> 720.14] Thank you -[720.14 --> 724.76] I love you -[724.76 --> 726.44] And my victory -[726.44 --> 727.48] Thank you -[727.48 --> 732.24] For the holy osob -[732.24 --> 733.82] They wereiniable -[733.82 --> 735.76] With порówne -[735.76 --> 736.00] And the sky -[736.00 --> 738.88] The moon -[738.88 --> 739.30] The song -[739.30 --> 745.16] These fires every angle of glory -[745.16 --> 750.26] sl 우리는 on our side -[750.26 --> 756.06] What wonders but earth and sea -[756.06 --> 759.50] God holy -[759.50 --> 763.30] Emily -[763.30 --> 769.26] The deliverance of what you speak -[769.26 --> 779.26] You are holy, holy, Lord of heaven. -[783.26 --> 786.26] Lord of heaven. -[799.26 --> 813.26] Lord in the morning, I will celebrate the night. -[814.26 --> 826.26] When I struggle in the darkness, I will call and be my God. -[826.26 --> 828.26] Lord of heaven. -[829.26 --> 830.26] Lord of heaven. -[831.26 --> 836.26] You are holy, holy. -[837.26 --> 843.26] You may first declare your majesty. -[844.26 --> 855.26] You are holy, holy, Lord of heaven. -[856.26 --> 857.26] Lord of heaven. -[858.26 --> 862.26] You are holy, holy, holy, Lord of heaven. -[863.26 --> 866.26] You are holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy. -[866.26 --> 873.12] Hallelujah, sing the Lord, and we'll make it to you. -[873.12 --> 879.30] Hallelujah, sing the Lord, and we'll make it to you. -[879.84 --> 885.06] Hallelujah, sing the Lord, and we'll make it to you. -[885.06 --> 893.18] And the first one is the Lord, and we'll see you in your glory. -[893.18 --> 909.36] Hallelujah, sing the Lord, and we'll see you in your glory. -[909.36 --> 915.54] Hallelujah, sing the Lord, and we'll make it to you. -[915.66 --> 920.74] Hallelujah, sing the Lord, and we'll see you in your glory. -[920.74 --> 927.30] Holy, my heart is beyond our galaxy. -[929.30 --> 935.48] You're holy, holy. -[935.48 --> 940.62] In the first place of majesty. -[942.32 --> 949.48] You're holy, holy. -[950.74 --> 957.74] Holy, my heart is beyond our galaxy. -[957.74 --> 963.74] You're holy, holy. -[963.74 --> 967.74] Holy, my heart is beyond our galaxy. -[967.74 --> 971.74] You're holy, holy. -[971.74 --> 975.74] You're holy, holy. -[975.74 --> 982.74] You're holy, holy. -[982.74 --> 983.74] You're holy, holy. -[983.74 --> 985.74] You're holy, holy. -[985.74 --> 987.74] You're holy, holy. -[987.74 --> 990.74] Amen. -[990.74 --> 992.74] We owe you, holy. -[992.74 --> 993.74] Amen. -[1022.74 --> 1029.72] To cry upon the throne and the peace of the Lamb. -[1029.72 --> 1037.76] And to live the fears of God, and to see the same of God. -[1037.76 --> 1045.38] And to see the child of God, and to the angels of God. -[1045.38 --> 1053.38] To the great Lord, and to the angels of God. -[1053.38 --> 1060.38] And to see the child of God, and to see the same of God. -[1060.38 --> 1068.38] And to see the child of God, and to see the same of God. -[1068.38 --> 1076.38] And to the great Lord, and to the angels of God. -[1076.38 --> 1084.38] And the shards and prostitutes, the rest of the country from the grave. -[1084.38 --> 1092.38] And to say that it aims to happen, and the captives need to be. -[1092.38 --> 1096.38] To understand we're not in love. -[1096.38 --> 1100.38] And to see the child of God. -[1100.38 --> 1104.38] And to the great Lord, and to the angels of God. -[1104.38 --> 1108.38] And to see the child of God, and to the angels of God. -[1108.38 --> 1114.38] And to the great Lord, and to the angels of God. -[1114.38 --> 1115.38] Amen. -[1144.38 --> 1145.38] Amen. -[1174.38 --> 1175.38] Amen. -[1204.38 --> 1207.58] Don't let us stay in our slumber, living in sin. -[1208.30 --> 1213.72] Call us out and stir in our hearts a desire to follow your leading, O God. -[1234.38 --> 1235.38] Amen. -[1264.38 --> 1265.38] Amen. -[1294.38 --> 1295.38] Amen. -[1324.38 --> 1325.38] Amen. -[1354.38 --> 1355.38] Amen. -[1384.38 --> 1385.38] Amen. -[1414.38 --> 1417.38] Even our Lord will turn to your mind, and we'll be saved in ourmania. -[1425.00 --> 1425.76] Amen. -[1431.64 --> 1432.08] Amen. -[1432.08 --> 1433.08] Amen. -[1437.32 --> 1438.60] Amen. -[1439.24 --> 1439.78] Amen. -[1444.38 --> 1451.64] For Jesus, come. -[1451.64 --> 1461.48] For Jesus, come. -[1474.38 --> 1504.36] For Jesus, come. -[1504.38 --> 1534.36] For Jesus, come. -[1534.38 --> 1564.36] For Jesus, come. -[1564.36 --> 1594.34] For Jesus, come. -[1594.34 --> 1624.32] For Jesus, come. -[1624.34 --> 1642.62] Good morning. -[1642.62 --> 1644.02] My name is Clem. -[1644.02 --> 1645.94] I'm one of the deacons here. -[1654.34 --> 1663.68] Okay, the offering today is for Emanuel's Ministries and the special offering is for M2W2. -[1663.68 --> 1670.34] This organization supports people who have been incarcerated by empowering and equipping -[1670.34 --> 1677.06] volunteers to mentor and build relationships with people in the prison system. -[1677.06 --> 1685.68] They also provide community reintegration called NOLA, which stands for No One Leaves Alone. -[1685.68 --> 1695.00] This provides support in five areas, housing, health, employment, education, and relationships. -[1695.00 --> 1701.16] They also run two thrift stores in Abbotsford and Chilliwack called Hidden Treasures, which -[1701.16 --> 1705.66] employs some of these prisoners. -[1705.66 --> 1714.88] Isaiah 1, 17 says, learn to do right, seek justice, defend the oppressed, take up the -[1714.88 --> 1718.32] cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow. -[1719.32 --> 1721.46] And then Micah 6, 8. -[1721.92 --> 1728.34] He has shown you, O mortal, what is good, and what does the Lord require of you? -[1728.34 --> 1735.46] To act justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. -[1735.46 --> 1765.44] piano plays softly -[1765.46 --> 1795.44] piano plays softly -[1795.46 --> 1825.44] piano plays softly -[1825.46 --> 1827.46] piano plays softly -[1827.46 --> 1831.88] His affection never wearies -[1831.88 --> 1836.46] And His mercy never ends -[1836.46 --> 1841.46] He reminds me every morning -[1842.04 --> 1846.46] I am still Your faithful friend -[1846.46 --> 1852.46] He is good to those who see Him -[1852.46 --> 1856.46] I will wait for Him to bless -[1856.98 --> 1862.46] And the Lord will be my portion -[1862.46 --> 1866.32] In the empty wilderness -[1866.32 --> 1872.46] In the goodness of the Lord -[1872.46 --> 1877.46] In the goodness of the Lord -[1877.46 --> 1882.46] I will wait for Him and send my love -[1882.46 --> 1887.46] In the goodness of the Lord -[1887.46 --> 1894.46] In the goodness of the Lord -[1894.46 --> 1898.46] In the goodness of the Lord -[1898.46 --> 1903.46] I will wait for Him and send my hope -[1903.46 --> 1908.46] In the goodness of the Lord -[1908.46 --> 1909.46] And the goodness of the Lord -[1909.46 --> 1910.46] In the goodness of the Lord -[1910.46 --> 1912.46] In the goodness of the Lord -[1912.46 --> 1920.46] There it is. -[1920.46 --> 1924.46] I would love to invite all the kids to come forward up here just for a second. -[1924.46 --> 1926.46] And we're going to... Hi Haley. -[1926.46 --> 1928.46] And we're going to do the kids' blessings. -[1928.46 --> 1929.46] So come on up. -[1929.46 --> 1931.46] Come on up to the front if you want. -[1931.46 --> 1935.46] All right. -[1935.46 --> 1938.46] You are right there. -[1938.46 --> 1939.46] Nice and close. -[1939.46 --> 1940.46] How's everybody doing? -[1940.46 --> 1942.46] Yeah, we're doing well? -[1942.46 --> 1943.46] That's good. -[1943.46 --> 1944.46] There's a few more coming I think. -[1944.46 --> 1946.46] Oh, maybe, maybe not. -[1946.46 --> 1947.46] All right. -[1947.46 --> 1949.46] We are going to do children's worship time today. -[1949.46 --> 1952.46] So if you are three years old or going into kindergarten, -[1952.46 --> 1955.46] you're allowed to go to children's worship time. -[1955.46 --> 1957.46] And otherwise we're going to listen to Pastor Chris today. -[1957.46 --> 1960.46] He's going to talk about a parable of the Good Samaritan. -[1960.46 --> 1962.46] We're going to listen to that this morning. -[1962.46 --> 1963.46] Does that sound good? -[1963.46 --> 1964.46] Yeah. -[1964.46 --> 1965.46] Okay, but first I'm going to pray. -[1965.46 --> 1968.46] And then we're going to do the kids' blessing, children's blessing. -[1968.46 --> 1969.46] Okay, are you ready? -[1969.46 --> 1971.46] So let's fold our hands, close our eyes, and let's pray. -[1971.46 --> 1972.46] Dear God, we thank you for this day. -[1972.46 --> 1974.46] That we could come to church. -[1974.46 --> 1978.46] Thank you that we have teachers here who are going to teach us more about you. -[1978.46 --> 1982.46] And if we're in children's worship time, God, we pray that you'll help us open our hearts -[1982.46 --> 1984.46] to what it is that we are to learn there. -[1984.46 --> 1988.46] And if we're staying in the church, please be with Pastor Chris as he brings us your word -[1988.46 --> 1991.46] and help us listen to what it is that you are telling us today. -[1991.46 --> 1993.46] So we pray this all in your son's name. -[1993.46 --> 1994.46] Amen. -[1994.46 --> 1996.46] Okay, we're going to stand up and we're going to do the blessing, okay? -[1996.46 --> 2001.46] So stand up, hold your hands out, and we're going to say it together. -[2001.46 --> 2002.46] Are you ready? -[2002.46 --> 2003.46] The Lord be with you. -[2003.46 --> 2004.46] Are you ready? -[2004.46 --> 2005.46] Let's do that. -[2005.46 --> 2007.46] The Lord be with you. -[2007.46 --> 2009.46] All right. -[2009.46 --> 2010.46] Good morning. -[2010.46 --> 2011.46] My name is Darrell. -[2011.46 --> 2012.46] I'm one of the elders here. -[2012.46 --> 2014.46] Let's go to God in our church family prayer. -[2014.46 --> 2015.46] Dear Heavenly Father, we gather before you. -[2015.46 --> 2016.46] Let's go to God in our church family prayer. -[2016.46 --> 2017.46] Let's go to God in our church family prayer. -[2017.46 --> 2019.46] Let's go to God in our church family prayer. -[2019.46 --> 2022.46] Dear Heavenly Father, we gather before you this morning as your people, and we praise you for -[2022.46 --> 2023.46] the many blessings you have given us. -[2023.46 --> 2024.46] Let's go to God in our church family prayer. -[2024.46 --> 2026.46] Let's go to God in our church family prayer. -[2026.46 --> 2028.46] Let's go to God in our church family prayer. -[2028.46 --> 2029.46] Let's go to God in our church family prayer. -[2029.46 --> 2035.46] Let's go to God in our church family prayer. -[2035.46 --> 2038.46] Let's go to God in our church family prayer. -[2038.64 --> 2058.42] Let's go to God in our church family prayer prayer prayer prayer prayer prayer prayer prayer prayer prayer prayer prayer prayer prayer prayer prayer prayer prayer prayer prayer prayer prayer prayer -[2058.42 --> 2065.66] continue to mourn. Please comfort us and be near to us. Please also be with Harry Bauman as he -[2065.66 --> 2070.50] continues to heal from a work accident, and thank you for the healing he's had so far. -[2071.72 --> 2077.74] We pray for those who struggle with COVID right now and other illnesses, including mental illness, -[2077.74 --> 2083.18] just please give them an extra measure of your healing. Remind us as a church to surround them -[2083.18 --> 2090.04] and comfort them, for we are your hands and feet. Truly my soul finds rest in God. My salvation -[2090.04 --> 2096.44] comes from him. Truly he is my fortress. I will never be shaken. How long will you assault me? -[2097.48 --> 2103.26] Would all of you throw me down this leaning wall, this tottering fence? Surely they intend to topple -[2103.26 --> 2108.88] me from my lofty place. They take delight in lies. With their mouths they bless, but in their hearts -[2108.88 --> 2116.42] they curse. Yes, my soul finds rest in God. My hope comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation. -[2116.66 --> 2123.30] He is my fortress. I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God. He is my mighty rock, -[2123.44 --> 2129.72] my refuge. Trust in him at all times, you people. Pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. -[2130.64 --> 2135.80] God Almighty, we lift our church leaders to you. We pray for Pastor Chris, Kevin, and Josh, the elders, -[2135.80 --> 2140.96] deacons, teachers, and ministry leaders. Instill shepherds' hearts in them. Inspire them to dig deep -[2140.96 --> 2145.08] into your word and root their lives in you alone. Protect their families and time with their families. -[2145.26 --> 2150.00] We pray for humility as they lead. Pour out your grace and generosity in them and through them. -[2150.44 --> 2155.62] Preserve their witness. Lead them as they walk with you and give them capacity to showcase your love, -[2155.92 --> 2160.00] mercy, and forgiveness. Provide accountability as they lead us and compel us to be faithful, -[2160.28 --> 2164.40] to stand in the gap for them. We praise you for the leaders you have raised up in this church. -[2164.40 --> 2167.84] Please be with Pastor Chris as he gives us your word this morning, -[2168.28 --> 2173.22] and may you open our hearts and give us ears to hear. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. -[2194.40 --> 2207.86] This morning we're going to read together and reflect on the parable of the Good Samaritan. -[2208.54 --> 2217.78] A very familiar one to many of you, I'm sure. And because of its familiarity, I'm going to ask that you, -[2217.78 --> 2221.34] if you have a Bible with you or a phone that you can read on, -[2221.46 --> 2228.16] that you intentionally open that up and check and follow along there, -[2228.38 --> 2238.04] so that we can hopefully together push through the familiarity of this story and parable together. -[2238.04 --> 2246.46] There are a couple of parables that Jesus speaks that he gives as an answer to a question. -[2247.00 --> 2251.22] And there are some parables that we have recorded that are just told as a story, -[2251.32 --> 2254.00] and he spoke to them in another parable, and he spoke to them in another parable. -[2254.32 --> 2259.08] This is one of those parables where Jesus is giving an answer to a question. -[2259.24 --> 2265.50] And so for us to fully dive into the parable, we're going to start with the context, -[2265.50 --> 2272.78] with the question that was asked of Jesus, so that we can see how his answer fits in that regard. -[2273.26 --> 2277.54] And so, with your Bibles open and your hearts open to the Word of God, -[2277.88 --> 2281.20] from Luke 10, let's read starting at verse 25. -[2283.90 --> 2288.90] On one occasion, an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. -[2288.90 --> 2295.70] Teacher, he asked, what must I do to inherit eternal life? -[2297.38 --> 2299.66] What is written in the law, Jesus replied. -[2299.78 --> 2300.64] How do you read it? -[2303.00 --> 2304.62] The expert in the law answered, -[2305.38 --> 2308.64] Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul -[2308.64 --> 2310.80] and with all your strength and all your mind, -[2311.24 --> 2313.82] and love your neighbor as yourself. -[2313.82 --> 2318.44] You have answered correctly, Jesus said. -[2318.64 --> 2320.66] Do this and you will live. -[2322.22 --> 2325.08] But he wanted to justify himself, -[2325.26 --> 2326.68] and so he asked Jesus, -[2327.46 --> 2330.38] And who is my neighbor? -[2331.66 --> 2334.28] And in reply, Jesus said, -[2334.28 --> 2339.54] A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho -[2339.54 --> 2342.14] when he was attacked by robbers. -[2342.14 --> 2345.02] They stripped him of his clothes, -[2345.18 --> 2346.68] beat him, and went away, -[2346.84 --> 2348.36] leaving him half dead. -[2349.86 --> 2352.56] A priest happened to be going down the same road, -[2352.66 --> 2353.86] and when he saw the man, -[2353.96 --> 2356.32] he passed by on the other side. -[2357.60 --> 2359.66] So too, a Levite, -[2360.18 --> 2362.14] when he came to the place and saw him, -[2362.32 --> 2364.56] he passed by on the other side. -[2365.78 --> 2367.52] But a Samaritan, -[2368.24 --> 2369.52] as he traveled, -[2370.06 --> 2371.52] came where the man was, -[2371.52 --> 2373.08] and when he saw him, -[2373.16 --> 2374.52] he took pity on him. -[2375.34 --> 2377.68] He went to him and bandaged his wounds, -[2378.16 --> 2379.90] pouring on oil and wine. -[2380.42 --> 2382.34] And then he put the man on his own donkey -[2382.34 --> 2384.92] and brought him to an inn and took care of him. -[2385.88 --> 2386.82] The next day, -[2386.90 --> 2388.44] he took out two denarii -[2388.44 --> 2389.88] and gave them to the innkeeper. -[2390.22 --> 2391.80] Look after him, he said, -[2392.38 --> 2393.48] and when I return, -[2393.66 --> 2396.68] I will reimburse you for any extra expense -[2396.68 --> 2397.50] you may have. -[2397.50 --> 2401.80] Which of these three do you think -[2401.80 --> 2403.28] was a neighbor to the man -[2403.28 --> 2405.76] who fell into the hands of the robbers? -[2407.32 --> 2409.24] The expert in the law replied, -[2410.46 --> 2412.76] the one who had mercy on him. -[2414.04 --> 2415.16] Jesus told him, -[2415.64 --> 2417.46] go and do likewise. -[2418.92 --> 2420.20] This is the word of the Lord. -[2420.20 --> 2427.44] Now, -[2427.68 --> 2431.98] the parable of the Good Samaritan, -[2432.20 --> 2433.00] as I have said, -[2433.50 --> 2435.00] is famous, -[2435.48 --> 2436.04] in part, -[2436.16 --> 2437.94] for its simplicity. -[2438.68 --> 2438.82] Right? -[2438.86 --> 2440.98] It is probably one of the -[2440.98 --> 2442.86] most well-known parables -[2442.86 --> 2443.82] of Jesus. -[2444.02 --> 2444.52] And that's true, -[2444.60 --> 2447.16] even for people who don't go to church. -[2447.16 --> 2451.24] And especially pertinent for us today, -[2451.68 --> 2453.46] this parable is biting -[2453.46 --> 2454.88] in its critique -[2454.88 --> 2456.42] of religious people. -[2458.06 --> 2459.10] And yet, -[2459.88 --> 2463.04] precisely because of all those reasons, -[2463.88 --> 2464.14] right, -[2464.22 --> 2465.84] most of us here today -[2465.84 --> 2468.04] are religious people. -[2468.50 --> 2469.74] Many of us here -[2469.74 --> 2470.92] have heard this story -[2470.92 --> 2471.98] since we were kids. -[2472.44 --> 2473.78] And because it seems -[2473.78 --> 2474.84] so straightforward, -[2474.84 --> 2479.40] we are more apt -[2479.40 --> 2480.34] or more likely -[2480.34 --> 2481.70] to miss -[2481.70 --> 2483.64] what this parable has to say. -[2484.82 --> 2485.52] Now, remember, -[2486.26 --> 2487.70] as we begin in this -[2487.70 --> 2488.28] parables, -[2488.48 --> 2489.30] the summer series, -[2489.66 --> 2489.82] right, -[2489.86 --> 2490.88] we said that Jesus -[2490.88 --> 2492.80] uses parables -[2492.80 --> 2493.98] in some respect -[2493.98 --> 2495.34] to intentionally -[2495.34 --> 2496.26] confuse -[2496.26 --> 2497.28] the people -[2497.28 --> 2498.10] who aren't yet -[2498.10 --> 2498.96] his disciples -[2498.96 --> 2499.90] or who don't yet -[2499.90 --> 2501.00] believe in him. -[2502.20 --> 2502.88] And so, -[2503.22 --> 2504.36] I suggest to you -[2504.36 --> 2505.50] that if we -[2505.50 --> 2506.48] oversimplify -[2506.48 --> 2507.32] this parable -[2507.32 --> 2508.54] into something -[2508.54 --> 2509.38] that makes -[2509.38 --> 2510.68] intuitive sense -[2510.68 --> 2511.86] to everyone, -[2512.22 --> 2513.32] including non-believing, -[2513.46 --> 2514.38] non-churchgoing people, -[2514.52 --> 2515.94] we probably haven't -[2515.94 --> 2517.18] fully grasped -[2517.18 --> 2518.88] or fully understood -[2518.88 --> 2519.74] the parable. -[2521.42 --> 2522.10] Now, -[2522.14 --> 2522.82] that's one of the reasons -[2522.82 --> 2523.62] why I love -[2523.62 --> 2524.60] parables. -[2525.10 --> 2526.06] Because no matter -[2526.06 --> 2527.34] how long you've been around, -[2527.40 --> 2527.98] no matter how familiar -[2527.98 --> 2528.36] you are -[2528.36 --> 2529.70] with these stories, -[2530.12 --> 2530.24] right, -[2530.24 --> 2531.30] there's always something -[2531.30 --> 2532.72] new to plumb -[2532.72 --> 2533.64] from them -[2533.64 --> 2534.32] that makes, -[2534.54 --> 2535.14] as we said, -[2535.18 --> 2536.42] a theological point -[2536.42 --> 2537.30] out of the world -[2537.30 --> 2538.42] around us. -[2539.00 --> 2539.78] This morning, -[2540.02 --> 2541.34] we are going to be -[2541.34 --> 2541.92] intentional -[2541.92 --> 2543.04] and we're going to -[2543.04 --> 2543.60] dig deep -[2543.60 --> 2544.24] and so, -[2545.00 --> 2546.14] I wrote here -[2546.14 --> 2546.66] in my notes, -[2546.80 --> 2547.68] roll up your sleeves, -[2547.80 --> 2548.38] but most of us -[2548.38 --> 2549.12] are wearing t-shirts -[2549.12 --> 2550.00] today because it's -[2550.00 --> 2550.56] so hot out, -[2550.64 --> 2551.78] so get ready -[2551.78 --> 2552.68] and let's go to work. -[2554.44 --> 2555.84] To shape our time -[2555.84 --> 2557.08] this morning, -[2557.24 --> 2558.60] I've got three questions -[2558.60 --> 2559.32] that are going to -[2559.32 --> 2559.88] structure -[2559.88 --> 2561.38] how I move forward. -[2562.16 --> 2563.16] The first question -[2563.16 --> 2563.98] is, -[2564.48 --> 2565.64] how is love -[2565.64 --> 2566.48] for God -[2566.48 --> 2567.66] made real? -[2568.52 --> 2569.24] How is love -[2569.24 --> 2569.74] for God -[2569.74 --> 2570.30] made real? -[2570.80 --> 2572.00] And then the second question, -[2572.18 --> 2572.94] we'll follow up -[2572.94 --> 2573.28] out of that, -[2573.34 --> 2573.58] asking, -[2573.90 --> 2574.74] who is my neighbor? -[2575.88 --> 2577.32] And then the third question -[2577.32 --> 2577.74] is, -[2578.06 --> 2579.04] how does -[2579.04 --> 2580.06] the Good Samaritan, -[2580.20 --> 2581.64] the story of the Good Samaritan -[2581.64 --> 2582.78] or the Good Samaritan -[2582.78 --> 2583.42] himself, -[2583.96 --> 2585.76] change my life? -[2586.58 --> 2586.74] So, -[2586.84 --> 2587.20] how is love -[2587.20 --> 2587.50] for God -[2587.50 --> 2588.04] made real? -[2588.26 --> 2589.20] Who is my neighbor? -[2589.20 --> 2589.86] And then how does -[2589.86 --> 2591.48] this change my life? -[2592.06 --> 2592.64] Let's start here -[2592.64 --> 2593.34] in the first question. -[2594.24 --> 2595.14] How is love -[2595.14 --> 2595.72] for God -[2595.72 --> 2596.88] made real? -[2597.84 --> 2598.04] Now, -[2598.12 --> 2598.98] first thing to see, -[2599.14 --> 2599.54] notice -[2599.54 --> 2601.12] what Jesus -[2601.12 --> 2602.24] is doing here. -[2602.36 --> 2603.34] Jesus asks -[2603.34 --> 2604.16] the expert -[2604.16 --> 2604.92] in the law -[2604.92 --> 2606.22] to summarize -[2606.22 --> 2607.36] the law. -[2608.12 --> 2608.78] And the expert -[2608.78 --> 2609.68] gives the answer, -[2609.90 --> 2610.56] love the Lord -[2610.56 --> 2611.10] your God -[2611.10 --> 2612.06] with all your heart -[2612.06 --> 2612.82] and with all your soul -[2612.82 --> 2613.62] and with all your strength -[2613.62 --> 2614.42] and with all your mind -[2614.42 --> 2616.40] and love your neighbor -[2616.40 --> 2617.86] as yourself. -[2617.86 --> 2621.06] this is the exact -[2621.06 --> 2622.12] same summary -[2622.12 --> 2623.08] of the law -[2623.08 --> 2624.20] that Jesus gives -[2624.20 --> 2625.84] in Matthew 22. -[2627.14 --> 2628.30] Some scholars -[2628.30 --> 2629.06] speculate -[2629.06 --> 2630.82] that this expert -[2630.82 --> 2631.58] in the law -[2631.58 --> 2632.72] heard Jesus -[2632.72 --> 2633.96] give that summary -[2633.96 --> 2635.24] and so -[2635.24 --> 2635.90] when Jesus -[2635.90 --> 2636.90] asked him that question -[2636.90 --> 2638.16] he knew the right answer -[2638.16 --> 2639.40] or knew the right answer. -[2640.76 --> 2641.32] And, -[2641.42 --> 2642.36] I want to suggest -[2642.36 --> 2643.96] that the order, -[2644.68 --> 2644.86] right, -[2644.96 --> 2645.58] love God -[2645.58 --> 2646.52] and love neighbor -[2646.52 --> 2647.64] matters. -[2649.26 --> 2649.48] Now, -[2649.74 --> 2651.04] if you are familiar -[2651.04 --> 2651.78] with your Bibles -[2651.78 --> 2653.06] you might recognize this -[2653.06 --> 2655.26] but that love your neighbor -[2655.26 --> 2655.74] quote -[2655.74 --> 2656.82] is from -[2656.82 --> 2658.74] Leviticus 19 -[2658.74 --> 2659.90] verse 18. -[2660.68 --> 2662.18] And the love your God -[2662.18 --> 2662.60] quote -[2662.60 --> 2664.16] is from -[2664.16 --> 2665.96] Deuteronomy 6 -[2665.96 --> 2667.02] verse 5. -[2667.94 --> 2668.20] Now, -[2668.96 --> 2669.96] here's a little -[2669.96 --> 2670.78] Bible trivia -[2670.78 --> 2671.80] question for you. -[2671.80 --> 2673.10] What comes first? -[2673.70 --> 2674.48] The book of Leviticus -[2674.48 --> 2675.70] or the book of Deuteronomy? -[2677.90 --> 2678.50] Leviticus. -[2678.62 --> 2679.10] Very good. -[2679.92 --> 2681.14] We said it with enough confidence -[2681.14 --> 2682.06] that nobody threw out -[2682.06 --> 2682.56] Deuteronomy -[2682.56 --> 2683.32] just to make sure -[2683.32 --> 2683.80] that we covered -[2683.80 --> 2684.48] all of our bases. -[2685.28 --> 2685.72] That's right. -[2685.80 --> 2686.92] Leviticus comes first. -[2687.38 --> 2687.90] And so, -[2688.30 --> 2690.30] for a good Jewish rabbi -[2690.30 --> 2691.44] you would expect -[2691.44 --> 2692.78] that scripture quotes -[2692.78 --> 2693.20] given -[2693.20 --> 2694.22] would follow -[2694.22 --> 2695.16] the order -[2695.16 --> 2695.78] that they appear -[2695.78 --> 2696.28] in the Bible. -[2696.98 --> 2697.64] They would follow -[2697.64 --> 2699.10] the canonical order -[2699.10 --> 2699.78] but Jesus -[2699.78 --> 2700.78] inverts them. -[2702.46 --> 2702.58] Now, -[2702.58 --> 2703.28] why is that? -[2705.20 --> 2705.52] That's because -[2705.52 --> 2706.32] I suggest -[2706.32 --> 2707.54] Jesus is recognizing -[2707.54 --> 2708.14] and knows -[2708.14 --> 2709.94] that it's really hard -[2709.94 --> 2711.24] to love -[2711.24 --> 2713.28] the unlovely neighbor -[2713.28 --> 2714.50] unless -[2714.50 --> 2715.74] you are -[2715.74 --> 2716.44] filled -[2716.44 --> 2717.68] to overflowing -[2717.68 --> 2718.96] with the love -[2718.96 --> 2719.62] of God -[2719.62 --> 2720.34] first. -[2721.60 --> 2722.08] Right? -[2722.10 --> 2722.70] It's really hard -[2722.70 --> 2723.16] to love -[2723.16 --> 2724.34] the unloving -[2724.34 --> 2725.62] or unlovely -[2725.62 --> 2726.36] neighbor -[2726.36 --> 2727.70] unless God -[2727.70 --> 2728.26] has filled you -[2728.26 --> 2729.00] with His love -[2729.00 --> 2730.28] in the first place. -[2730.34 --> 2730.88] There's a sort of -[2730.88 --> 2732.02] order of operations -[2732.02 --> 2733.06] here, right? -[2733.10 --> 2734.10] You are truly -[2734.10 --> 2736.28] able to love God -[2736.28 --> 2736.96] that is with all your -[2736.96 --> 2737.68] heart and soul -[2737.68 --> 2738.72] mind and strength -[2738.72 --> 2740.86] only when His love -[2740.86 --> 2741.68] for you -[2741.68 --> 2742.60] fills you up -[2742.60 --> 2743.92] in newness of life -[2743.92 --> 2745.06] and then that love -[2745.06 --> 2746.64] of God for you -[2746.64 --> 2748.26] so fills you up -[2748.26 --> 2749.58] that it naturally -[2749.58 --> 2751.00] and consequently -[2751.00 --> 2753.10] flows out -[2753.10 --> 2753.82] to others -[2753.82 --> 2755.26] to neighbors -[2755.26 --> 2756.24] and to strangers -[2756.24 --> 2757.48] and to aliens -[2757.48 --> 2758.58] and even -[2758.58 --> 2759.54] Jesus will add -[2759.54 --> 2760.58] to enemies. -[2762.26 --> 2762.96] And I want to be -[2762.96 --> 2763.52] really clear -[2763.52 --> 2765.06] because this -[2765.06 --> 2766.00] is the kind -[2766.00 --> 2766.78] of love -[2766.78 --> 2767.82] that God -[2767.82 --> 2768.66] has for you. -[2770.60 --> 2771.12] And so -[2771.12 --> 2771.72] wherever our sleeves -[2771.72 --> 2772.24] are rolled up -[2772.24 --> 2772.60] we're going to do -[2772.60 --> 2773.84] some biblical theology -[2773.84 --> 2774.40] for a minute -[2774.40 --> 2774.98] and so just -[2774.98 --> 2775.60] come along -[2775.60 --> 2776.40] this journey -[2776.40 --> 2776.84] with me. -[2777.68 --> 2778.60] Paul says -[2778.60 --> 2780.20] in Romans 5 -[2780.20 --> 2781.44] he writes -[2781.44 --> 2783.08] God demonstrates -[2783.08 --> 2784.14] His own love -[2784.14 --> 2784.66] for us -[2784.66 --> 2785.22] in this -[2785.22 --> 2786.24] that while -[2786.24 --> 2786.92] we were yet -[2786.92 --> 2787.28] sinners -[2787.28 --> 2788.92] Christ died -[2788.92 --> 2789.62] for us. -[2790.32 --> 2791.04] And then almost -[2791.04 --> 2791.70] in the next -[2791.70 --> 2792.54] verse -[2792.54 --> 2793.62] he says -[2793.62 --> 2794.94] while we were -[2794.94 --> 2795.90] God's enemies -[2795.90 --> 2797.62] we were reconciled -[2797.62 --> 2798.12] to Him -[2798.12 --> 2799.08] through the death -[2799.08 --> 2800.10] of His Son. -[2801.00 --> 2801.64] And so hold those -[2801.64 --> 2802.32] two things together -[2802.32 --> 2802.52] right? -[2802.60 --> 2803.82] See the parallel -[2803.82 --> 2804.20] right? -[2804.64 --> 2805.28] Sinners -[2805.28 --> 2806.50] equals -[2806.50 --> 2807.34] enemies. -[2807.34 --> 2807.52] enemies. -[2808.52 --> 2809.44] But it goes -[2809.44 --> 2810.12] even further -[2810.12 --> 2811.40] because for the -[2811.40 --> 2811.78] elect -[2811.78 --> 2812.24] for those -[2812.24 --> 2812.80] who have -[2812.80 --> 2813.26] been given -[2813.26 --> 2813.80] the gift -[2813.80 --> 2814.42] of faith -[2814.42 --> 2815.42] and respond -[2815.42 --> 2815.98] sinners -[2815.98 --> 2816.80] equals -[2816.80 --> 2817.32] enemies -[2817.32 --> 2818.20] equals -[2818.20 --> 2819.04] loved -[2819.04 --> 2819.54] and -[2819.54 --> 2820.48] chosen -[2820.48 --> 2821.32] in Jesus -[2821.32 --> 2821.84] Christ -[2821.84 --> 2822.38] before the -[2822.38 --> 2822.80] foundation -[2822.80 --> 2823.54] of the world -[2823.54 --> 2824.30] Paul writes -[2824.30 --> 2825.14] in Ephesians 1. -[2826.18 --> 2827.18] And so the line -[2827.18 --> 2827.58] here -[2827.58 --> 2828.42] the through line -[2828.42 --> 2828.72] is that -[2828.72 --> 2829.66] we love -[2829.66 --> 2830.40] because He -[2830.40 --> 2831.22] first loved -[2831.22 --> 2832.10] us -[2832.10 --> 2834.06] 1 John 4 -[2834.06 --> 2834.72] 19 -[2834.72 --> 2836.58] We love Him -[2836.58 --> 2837.58] because He -[2837.58 --> 2838.24] loves us -[2838.24 --> 2838.66] and His -[2838.66 --> 2839.44] love for us -[2839.44 --> 2840.58] fills up -[2840.58 --> 2841.50] to overflowing -[2841.50 --> 2842.48] so that we -[2842.48 --> 2843.46] will -[2843.46 --> 2845.18] love others. -[2846.02 --> 2847.30] And that's the thing -[2847.30 --> 2847.96] to hear -[2847.96 --> 2848.66] this morning -[2848.66 --> 2849.66] if you truly -[2849.66 --> 2850.78] know the one -[2850.78 --> 2851.58] that is the love -[2851.58 --> 2852.22] of God -[2852.22 --> 2853.26] you will -[2853.26 --> 2854.04] live -[2854.04 --> 2854.76] and do -[2854.76 --> 2855.66] the other. -[2856.46 --> 2857.10] When God's -[2857.10 --> 2858.34] love affects -[2858.34 --> 2858.78] you -[2858.78 --> 2860.06] your affections -[2860.06 --> 2860.88] for Him -[2860.88 --> 2862.28] are the consequence -[2862.28 --> 2864.00] your affections -[2864.00 --> 2864.70] for God -[2864.70 --> 2866.24] will as a result -[2866.24 --> 2867.60] manifest in -[2867.60 --> 2868.28] loving your -[2868.28 --> 2868.70] neighbor -[2868.70 --> 2869.24] in loving -[2869.24 --> 2870.04] the stranger -[2870.04 --> 2870.84] or the alien -[2870.84 --> 2871.94] or the enemy -[2871.94 --> 2873.24] in your life. -[2876.68 --> 2877.28] Now -[2877.28 --> 2879.84] many of you -[2879.84 --> 2880.46] have heard this -[2880.46 --> 2880.88] before -[2880.88 --> 2882.60] so I want to get -[2882.60 --> 2883.72] real straightforward. -[2885.22 --> 2886.44] If you say -[2886.44 --> 2887.44] you love God -[2887.44 --> 2889.70] and you go to -[2889.70 --> 2890.46] church regularly -[2890.46 --> 2892.30] say you didn't -[2892.30 --> 2892.84] even miss -[2892.84 --> 2894.08] one digital service -[2894.08 --> 2894.56] when we were -[2894.56 --> 2895.20] digital only -[2895.20 --> 2895.80] through COVID -[2895.80 --> 2896.60] that's how -[2896.60 --> 2897.24] committed you -[2897.24 --> 2897.58] are. -[2899.22 --> 2900.24] If you say -[2900.24 --> 2901.16] you love God -[2901.16 --> 2902.56] but you don't -[2902.56 --> 2903.78] stand up -[2903.78 --> 2904.82] for the rights -[2904.82 --> 2905.80] of the stranger -[2905.80 --> 2907.08] or the alien -[2907.08 --> 2907.78] you don't stand -[2907.78 --> 2908.76] up for the justice -[2908.76 --> 2909.98] of your neighbors -[2909.98 --> 2910.70] you don't love -[2910.70 --> 2911.30] the stranger -[2911.30 --> 2911.88] and alien -[2911.88 --> 2912.50] if you say -[2912.50 --> 2913.14] you love God -[2913.14 --> 2913.66] but you don't -[2913.66 --> 2914.40] pray for the -[2914.40 --> 2915.80] grace of your -[2915.80 --> 2916.16] enemy -[2916.16 --> 2918.64] really simply -[2918.64 --> 2920.36] you don't -[2920.36 --> 2920.98] love God -[2920.98 --> 2922.86] or at least -[2922.86 --> 2923.36] not the God -[2923.36 --> 2923.86] of the Bible -[2923.86 --> 2925.60] maybe a God -[2925.60 --> 2926.00] of your own -[2926.00 --> 2926.40] making -[2926.40 --> 2928.42] right -[2928.42 --> 2929.52] loving God -[2929.52 --> 2930.78] means loving -[2930.78 --> 2931.74] your neighbor -[2931.74 --> 2932.46] whoever he -[2932.46 --> 2933.34] she or they -[2933.34 --> 2934.28] may be -[2934.28 --> 2936.24] instead -[2936.24 --> 2938.70] you might love -[2938.70 --> 2939.32] your religion -[2939.32 --> 2942.00] you might love -[2942.00 --> 2943.02] your people -[2943.02 --> 2944.20] whoever they are -[2944.20 --> 2945.10] you might love -[2945.10 --> 2945.80] your ideas -[2945.80 --> 2946.96] and your laws -[2946.96 --> 2948.04] and your structures -[2948.04 --> 2950.52] but you aren't -[2950.52 --> 2951.32] loving God -[2951.32 --> 2953.94] now even now -[2953.94 --> 2954.48] some of you -[2954.48 --> 2955.32] are hearing this -[2955.32 --> 2955.56] right -[2955.56 --> 2956.30] and you're -[2956.30 --> 2956.88] getting a little -[2956.88 --> 2957.46] raised -[2957.46 --> 2958.44] and maybe -[2958.44 --> 2959.32] triggered is the -[2959.32 --> 2959.58] word -[2959.58 --> 2960.02] and you're -[2960.02 --> 2960.78] already trying -[2960.78 --> 2961.78] to justify -[2961.78 --> 2962.30] yourself -[2962.30 --> 2962.56] you're saying -[2962.56 --> 2962.92] not me -[2962.92 --> 2963.60] I don't do -[2963.60 --> 2963.78] that -[2963.78 --> 2964.10] I would -[2964.10 --> 2964.48] never do -[2964.48 --> 2964.70] that -[2964.70 --> 2965.30] you do -[2965.30 --> 2967.98] I do -[2967.98 --> 2970.52] right -[2970.52 --> 2970.84] and that's -[2970.84 --> 2971.36] why we need -[2971.36 --> 2971.98] parables -[2971.98 --> 2973.38] to pierce -[2973.38 --> 2974.24] the normal -[2974.24 --> 2974.96] so that we -[2974.96 --> 2975.78] can see -[2975.78 --> 2976.62] with the eyes -[2976.62 --> 2977.16] of God -[2977.16 --> 2979.00] now I don't -[2979.00 --> 2979.46] know what it -[2979.46 --> 2980.22] is for you -[2980.22 --> 2981.10] right -[2981.10 --> 2981.36] maybe -[2981.36 --> 2982.12] maybe it's -[2982.12 --> 2982.60] a racist -[2982.60 --> 2983.24] presumption -[2983.24 --> 2983.58] that you -[2983.58 --> 2984.30] have never -[2984.30 --> 2985.10] questioned -[2985.10 --> 2987.80] that's just -[2987.80 --> 2988.38] who they are -[2988.38 --> 2988.86] they can't -[2988.86 --> 2989.22] change -[2989.22 --> 2990.54] it's not -[2990.54 --> 2990.96] really any -[2990.96 --> 2991.32] fault of -[2991.32 --> 2991.62] theirs -[2991.62 --> 2992.66] that's a -[2992.66 --> 2993.10] racist -[2993.10 --> 2993.80] presumption -[2993.80 --> 2995.20] let's name -[2995.20 --> 2995.54] that -[2995.54 --> 2996.24] boldly -[2996.24 --> 2997.68] maybe -[2997.68 --> 2998.52] you paint -[2998.52 --> 2999.24] all left -[2999.24 --> 2999.92] leaning people -[2999.92 --> 3000.30] with the -[3000.30 --> 3000.82] same brush -[3000.82 --> 3001.24] maybe you -[3001.24 --> 3001.64] paint all -[3001.64 --> 3002.32] right leaning -[3002.32 --> 3002.68] people -[3002.68 --> 3003.24] with the -[3003.24 --> 3003.70] same brush -[3003.70 --> 3004.30] ultimately -[3004.30 --> 3005.00] dismissing -[3005.00 --> 3005.50] anyone who -[3005.50 --> 3005.72] thinks -[3005.72 --> 3006.12] differently -[3006.12 --> 3006.50] than you -[3006.50 --> 3007.06] on social -[3007.06 --> 3007.38] issues -[3007.38 --> 3007.80] or on the -[3007.80 --> 3008.14] role of -[3008.14 --> 3008.52] the government -[3008.52 --> 3009.32] or economic -[3009.32 --> 3009.72] policy -[3009.72 --> 3010.34] or whatever -[3010.34 --> 3010.96] it may be -[3010.96 --> 3011.52] that sort -[3011.52 --> 3012.36] of intellectual -[3012.36 --> 3013.20] hubris -[3013.20 --> 3014.50] isn't good -[3014.50 --> 3015.32] for the -[3015.32 --> 3015.90] community -[3015.90 --> 3017.68] right I think -[3017.68 --> 3018.58] that's in part -[3018.58 --> 3019.98] why James -[3019.98 --> 3020.78] tells us in -[3020.78 --> 3021.32] chapter 1 -[3021.32 --> 3022.00] verse 19 -[3022.00 --> 3022.62] to be quick -[3022.62 --> 3023.78] to listen -[3023.78 --> 3024.82] and slow -[3024.82 --> 3025.44] to speak -[3025.44 --> 3028.28] and like I -[3028.28 --> 3029.38] said I don't -[3029.38 --> 3030.30] know what it -[3030.30 --> 3031.04] is for you -[3031.04 --> 3031.84] but maybe -[3031.84 --> 3032.36] there's a -[3032.36 --> 3033.60] boiling anger -[3033.60 --> 3034.42] that's always -[3034.42 --> 3034.90] in you -[3034.90 --> 3035.52] just barely -[3035.52 --> 3036.16] below the -[3036.16 --> 3036.48] surface -[3036.48 --> 3036.78] and the -[3036.78 --> 3036.98] people -[3036.98 --> 3037.58] around you -[3037.58 --> 3038.22] they can't -[3038.22 --> 3038.50] quite put -[3038.50 --> 3038.92] a finger -[3038.92 --> 3039.28] on it -[3039.28 --> 3039.72] but they -[3039.72 --> 3040.68] feel it -[3040.68 --> 3041.90] right there's -[3041.90 --> 3042.54] no margin -[3042.54 --> 3043.12] in you -[3043.12 --> 3043.74] for for -[3043.74 --> 3044.44] grace or -[3044.44 --> 3044.90] love -[3044.90 --> 3046.66] like I -[3046.66 --> 3047.02] don't know -[3047.02 --> 3047.22] what it -[3047.22 --> 3047.68] is for you -[3047.68 --> 3048.10] and whatever -[3048.10 --> 3048.58] it is for -[3048.58 --> 3049.00] you that's -[3049.00 --> 3049.70] your job -[3049.70 --> 3051.02] to introspect -[3051.02 --> 3051.68] on -[3051.68 --> 3053.76] if you -[3053.76 --> 3054.84] know -[3054.84 --> 3056.30] God's -[3056.30 --> 3056.86] love -[3056.86 --> 3057.34] if you -[3057.34 --> 3058.34] love -[3058.34 --> 3059.32] God -[3059.32 --> 3059.78] you need -[3059.78 --> 3060.66] to show -[3060.66 --> 3061.56] that -[3061.56 --> 3062.64] love -[3062.64 --> 3064.28] now -[3064.28 --> 3066.02] don't hear -[3066.02 --> 3066.30] what I'm -[3066.30 --> 3066.88] not saying -[3066.88 --> 3068.18] right -[3068.18 --> 3068.84] loving -[3068.84 --> 3069.58] someone -[3069.58 --> 3070.48] proper -[3070.48 --> 3071.24] loving -[3071.24 --> 3071.62] someone -[3071.62 --> 3071.82] as -[3071.82 --> 3072.62] God -[3072.62 --> 3073.14] loves -[3073.14 --> 3073.32] them -[3073.32 --> 3073.92] means -[3073.92 --> 3074.36] loving -[3074.36 --> 3074.64] them -[3074.64 --> 3074.92] where -[3074.92 --> 3075.16] they -[3075.16 --> 3075.34] are -[3075.34 --> 3075.74] at -[3075.74 --> 3076.52] but -[3076.52 --> 3077.22] loving -[3077.22 --> 3077.48] them -[3077.48 --> 3077.92] enough -[3077.92 --> 3078.34] to not -[3078.34 --> 3078.60] leave -[3078.60 --> 3078.80] them -[3078.80 --> 3079.12] there -[3079.12 --> 3081.00] the love -[3081.00 --> 3081.50] of God -[3081.50 --> 3082.12] transforms -[3082.12 --> 3082.74] us -[3082.74 --> 3083.18] into -[3083.18 --> 3083.96] the image -[3083.96 --> 3084.86] of God -[3084.86 --> 3086.16] and the -[3086.16 --> 3086.50] love -[3086.50 --> 3087.02] of Jesus -[3087.02 --> 3087.72] disciples -[3087.72 --> 3088.32] the love -[3088.32 --> 3088.76] that people -[3088.76 --> 3089.58] experience -[3089.58 --> 3090.10] from you -[3090.10 --> 3090.64] and me -[3090.64 --> 3091.06] as his -[3091.06 --> 3091.48] disciples -[3091.48 --> 3092.16] ought to -[3092.16 --> 3092.52] do the -[3092.52 --> 3092.84] same -[3092.84 --> 3095.06] let me be -[3095.06 --> 3095.78] really clear -[3095.78 --> 3096.20] again -[3096.20 --> 3098.10] unconditional -[3098.10 --> 3098.96] love -[3098.96 --> 3100.84] must still -[3100.84 --> 3101.22] have -[3101.22 --> 3102.28] expectations -[3102.28 --> 3105.72] the love -[3105.72 --> 3106.64] of God -[3106.64 --> 3107.62] is made -[3107.62 --> 3108.24] evident -[3108.24 --> 3109.26] in you -[3109.26 --> 3109.86] by your -[3109.86 --> 3110.54] obedience -[3110.54 --> 3111.50] to him -[3111.50 --> 3113.42] love -[3113.42 --> 3113.86] is -[3113.86 --> 3114.48] obedience -[3114.48 --> 3115.10] to God -[3115.10 --> 3115.70] even -[3115.70 --> 3116.02] if -[3116.02 --> 3116.26] our -[3116.26 --> 3116.64] cultural -[3116.64 --> 3117.10] moment -[3117.10 --> 3117.34] has -[3117.34 --> 3117.62] another -[3117.62 --> 3117.94] anthem -[3117.94 --> 3118.14] or -[3118.14 --> 3118.36] another -[3118.36 --> 3118.90] idea -[3118.90 --> 3119.34] about -[3119.34 --> 3119.52] what -[3119.52 --> 3119.76] love -[3119.76 --> 3120.00] might -[3120.00 --> 3120.32] be -[3120.32 --> 3122.00] Jesus -[3122.00 --> 3122.58] says -[3122.58 --> 3122.90] in -[3122.90 --> 3123.26] John -[3123.26 --> 3123.90] 14 -[3123.90 --> 3124.84] if -[3124.84 --> 3125.00] you -[3125.00 --> 3125.32] love -[3125.32 --> 3125.68] me -[3125.68 --> 3126.18] you -[3126.18 --> 3126.40] will -[3126.40 --> 3126.82] keep -[3126.82 --> 3127.90] my -[3127.90 --> 3128.36] commandments -[3128.36 --> 3130.50] and so -[3130.50 --> 3130.64] let's -[3130.64 --> 3130.92] come back -[3130.92 --> 3131.24] to that -[3131.24 --> 3131.80] that -[3131.80 --> 3132.38] biblical -[3132.38 --> 3132.90] theology -[3132.90 --> 3133.40] through line -[3133.40 --> 3133.58] right -[3133.58 --> 3134.00] sinners -[3134.00 --> 3134.50] equals -[3134.50 --> 3134.92] enemies -[3134.92 --> 3135.46] equals -[3135.46 --> 3136.38] loved -[3136.38 --> 3137.22] by God -[3137.22 --> 3137.66] before the -[3137.66 --> 3137.98] foundation -[3137.98 --> 3138.24] of the -[3138.24 --> 3138.44] world -[3138.44 --> 3139.30] equals -[3139.30 --> 3140.20] obedient -[3140.20 --> 3141.94] in -[3141.94 --> 3142.60] response -[3142.60 --> 3143.22] and -[3143.22 --> 3143.70] gratitude -[3143.70 --> 3144.70] to what -[3144.70 --> 3144.96] he has -[3144.96 --> 3145.28] done -[3145.28 --> 3146.18] and who -[3146.18 --> 3146.62] he is -[3146.62 --> 3148.32] but this -[3148.32 --> 3148.66] is the -[3148.66 --> 3149.20] danger -[3149.20 --> 3150.60] right -[3150.60 --> 3151.82] expectations -[3151.82 --> 3152.64] without -[3152.64 --> 3153.42] love -[3153.42 --> 3154.84] is an -[3154.84 --> 3155.14] abuse -[3155.14 --> 3155.32] of -[3155.32 --> 3155.76] power -[3155.76 --> 3157.66] obedience -[3157.66 --> 3158.50] without -[3158.50 --> 3159.20] love -[3159.20 --> 3160.44] is -[3160.44 --> 3161.04] tyranny -[3161.04 --> 3163.42] and that -[3163.42 --> 3163.90] matters -[3163.90 --> 3164.72] for us -[3164.72 --> 3165.04] because -[3165.04 --> 3165.90] because as -[3165.90 --> 3166.30] we read -[3166.30 --> 3166.88] this parable -[3166.88 --> 3167.58] who is -[3167.58 --> 3167.82] it -[3167.82 --> 3168.80] that ignores -[3168.80 --> 3169.44] the broken -[3169.44 --> 3169.94] and the -[3169.94 --> 3170.16] beaten -[3170.16 --> 3170.78] man on -[3170.78 --> 3171.32] the Jericho -[3171.32 --> 3171.66] road -[3171.66 --> 3173.60] it's a -[3173.60 --> 3173.96] priest -[3173.96 --> 3174.94] and a -[3174.94 --> 3175.40] Levite -[3175.40 --> 3175.90] it's the -[3175.90 --> 3176.72] religious -[3176.72 --> 3177.54] class -[3177.54 --> 3178.18] of -[3178.18 --> 3178.60] second -[3178.60 --> 3179.02] temple -[3179.02 --> 3179.70] Judaism -[3179.70 --> 3180.20] it's the -[3180.20 --> 3180.58] religious -[3180.58 --> 3181.24] elite -[3181.24 --> 3181.80] that -[3181.80 --> 3182.24] one -[3182.24 --> 3182.70] writer -[3182.70 --> 3183.68] said -[3183.68 --> 3184.28] the priest -[3184.28 --> 3185.18] decided -[3185.18 --> 3185.60] that his -[3185.60 --> 3186.26] ceremonial -[3186.26 --> 3186.72] purity -[3186.72 --> 3187.30] was too -[3187.30 --> 3187.76] important -[3187.76 --> 3188.46] to risk -[3188.46 --> 3189.92] right -[3189.92 --> 3190.32] and then the -[3190.32 --> 3190.70] Levite -[3190.70 --> 3191.36] uses the -[3191.36 --> 3191.96] same -[3191.96 --> 3193.04] idea -[3193.04 --> 3193.42] for -[3193.42 --> 3193.90] passing -[3193.90 --> 3194.64] on the -[3194.64 --> 3194.90] other -[3194.90 --> 3195.40] side -[3195.40 --> 3196.14] of the -[3196.14 --> 3196.38] road -[3196.38 --> 3200.10] so real -[3200.10 --> 3200.34] quick -[3200.34 --> 3200.62] I was -[3200.62 --> 3200.94] unable -[3200.94 --> 3201.58] to find -[3201.58 --> 3202.12] a -[3202.12 --> 3202.58] picture -[3202.58 --> 3203.66] a -[3203.66 --> 3203.84] number -[3203.84 --> 3203.98] of -[3203.98 --> 3204.16] years -[3204.16 --> 3204.40] ago -[3204.40 --> 3204.62] I -[3204.62 --> 3205.14] had -[3205.14 --> 3205.24] the -[3205.24 --> 3205.60] opportunity -[3205.60 --> 3206.20] to -[3206.20 --> 3206.58] travel -[3206.58 --> 3207.08] throughout -[3207.08 --> 3207.80] Israel -[3207.80 --> 3208.28] and we -[3208.28 --> 3208.80] walked -[3208.80 --> 3209.80] on this -[3209.80 --> 3210.74] Jericho -[3210.74 --> 3211.14] road -[3211.14 --> 3211.94] we started -[3211.94 --> 3212.54] in Jericho -[3212.54 --> 3212.92] and we -[3212.92 --> 3213.40] walked up -[3213.40 --> 3213.88] towards -[3213.88 --> 3214.62] Jerusalem -[3214.62 --> 3215.02] it's a -[3215.02 --> 3215.72] 17 mile -[3215.72 --> 3216.22] hike -[3216.22 --> 3216.52] so we -[3216.52 --> 3216.66] didn't -[3216.66 --> 3216.90] do the -[3216.90 --> 3217.06] whole -[3217.06 --> 3217.34] thing -[3217.34 --> 3217.68] but we -[3217.68 --> 3217.96] walked -[3217.96 --> 3218.26] through -[3218.26 --> 3218.76] the -[3218.76 --> 3219.40] treacherous -[3219.40 --> 3219.74] part -[3219.74 --> 3219.92] the -[3219.92 --> 3220.24] part -[3220.24 --> 3220.50] where -[3220.50 --> 3221.60] Jesus -[3221.60 --> 3222.12] probably -[3222.12 --> 3222.56] has in -[3222.56 --> 3222.88] mind -[3222.88 --> 3223.22] when he -[3223.22 --> 3223.50] tells -[3223.50 --> 3223.80] this -[3223.80 --> 3224.26] story -[3224.26 --> 3225.00] and it's -[3225.00 --> 3225.40] on a -[3225.40 --> 3226.10] cliff -[3226.10 --> 3226.50] face -[3226.50 --> 3226.84] and there's -[3226.84 --> 3227.16] a narrow -[3227.16 --> 3227.54] path -[3227.54 --> 3227.86] and there's -[3227.86 --> 3228.30] countless -[3228.30 --> 3229.54] switchbacks -[3229.54 --> 3230.16] and turns -[3230.16 --> 3230.70] and places -[3230.70 --> 3231.22] for people -[3231.22 --> 3231.70] to hide -[3231.70 --> 3232.28] like the -[3232.28 --> 3232.60] Jericho -[3232.60 --> 3232.92] road -[3232.92 --> 3233.50] was known -[3233.50 --> 3233.86] as the -[3233.86 --> 3234.14] place -[3234.14 --> 3234.34] where -[3234.34 --> 3234.70] robbers -[3234.70 --> 3234.86] would -[3234.86 --> 3235.14] come -[3235.14 --> 3235.56] and -[3235.56 --> 3235.72] would -[3235.72 --> 3235.98] beat -[3235.98 --> 3236.26] you -[3236.26 --> 3238.92] now -[3238.92 --> 3239.40] the -[3239.40 --> 3239.74] Jericho -[3239.74 --> 3240.10] road -[3240.10 --> 3240.70] like most -[3240.70 --> 3241.34] paths -[3241.34 --> 3241.88] during -[3241.88 --> 3242.24] this -[3242.24 --> 3242.64] ancient -[3242.64 --> 3243.16] time -[3243.16 --> 3243.64] follows -[3243.64 --> 3244.88] between -[3244.88 --> 3245.44] two -[3245.44 --> 3246.72] mountain -[3246.72 --> 3247.10] cliff -[3247.10 --> 3247.54] faces -[3247.54 --> 3248.62] and along -[3248.62 --> 3249.08] the bottom -[3249.08 --> 3249.36] and up -[3249.36 --> 3249.58] on the -[3249.58 --> 3249.84] edge -[3249.84 --> 3251.00] and there's -[3251.00 --> 3251.38] a path -[3251.38 --> 3252.42] on the -[3252.42 --> 3253.76] eastern -[3253.76 --> 3254.24] slope -[3254.26 --> 3254.66] and a -[3254.66 --> 3254.98] path -[3254.98 --> 3255.32] on the -[3255.32 --> 3255.74] western -[3255.74 --> 3256.30] slope -[3256.30 --> 3257.50] and so -[3257.50 --> 3257.92] when it -[3257.92 --> 3258.36] says -[3258.36 --> 3258.74] that the -[3258.74 --> 3260.08] Levite -[3260.08 --> 3260.38] and the -[3260.38 --> 3260.62] priest -[3260.62 --> 3261.10] crossed -[3261.10 --> 3261.54] to the -[3261.54 --> 3261.74] other -[3261.74 --> 3262.14] side -[3262.14 --> 3262.64] they -[3262.64 --> 3263.04] literally -[3263.04 --> 3263.60] would have -[3263.60 --> 3263.86] had to -[3263.86 --> 3264.16] climb -[3264.16 --> 3264.38] down -[3264.38 --> 3264.52] a -[3264.52 --> 3264.74] mountain -[3264.74 --> 3265.02] and -[3265.02 --> 3265.28] climb -[3265.28 --> 3265.46] up -[3265.46 --> 3265.70] another -[3265.70 --> 3265.94] one -[3265.94 --> 3266.28] to get -[3266.28 --> 3266.62] onto -[3266.62 --> 3266.82] the -[3266.82 --> 3267.14] path -[3267.14 --> 3267.36] that's -[3267.36 --> 3267.60] on the -[3267.60 --> 3267.76] other -[3267.76 --> 3268.06] side -[3268.06 --> 3269.20] that's -[3269.20 --> 3269.48] how -[3269.48 --> 3269.88] much -[3269.88 --> 3270.08] they -[3270.08 --> 3270.44] didn't -[3270.44 --> 3270.70] want -[3270.70 --> 3271.02] to -[3271.02 --> 3272.04] upset -[3272.04 --> 3272.40] the -[3272.40 --> 3273.32] religious -[3273.32 --> 3274.92] requirements -[3274.92 --> 3275.46] that they -[3275.46 --> 3276.16] had imposed -[3276.16 --> 3276.88] and felt -[3276.88 --> 3277.36] imposed -[3277.36 --> 3278.02] on -[3278.02 --> 3278.48] themselves -[3278.48 --> 3281.80] what -[3281.80 --> 3282.06] Jesus -[3282.06 --> 3282.32] is -[3282.32 --> 3282.62] saying -[3282.62 --> 3284.20] is that -[3284.20 --> 3284.34] when -[3284.34 --> 3285.66] our -[3285.66 --> 3286.32] ideas -[3286.32 --> 3286.76] of -[3286.76 --> 3287.36] purity -[3287.36 --> 3288.44] are -[3288.44 --> 3288.76] more -[3288.76 --> 3289.30] important -[3289.30 --> 3289.58] than -[3289.58 --> 3290.04] charity -[3290.04 --> 3291.52] we've -[3291.52 --> 3291.70] missed -[3291.70 --> 3291.84] the -[3291.84 --> 3292.06] mark -[3292.06 --> 3292.18] of -[3292.18 --> 3292.30] the -[3292.30 --> 3292.64] gospel -[3292.64 --> 3294.16] when -[3294.16 --> 3294.30] the -[3294.30 --> 3294.80] opinions -[3294.80 --> 3295.24] of -[3295.24 --> 3295.44] the -[3295.44 --> 3295.80] people -[3295.80 --> 3296.28] we -[3296.28 --> 3296.64] know -[3296.64 --> 3296.96] are -[3296.96 --> 3297.22] more -[3297.22 --> 3297.68] important -[3297.68 --> 3297.92] than -[3297.92 --> 3298.12] the -[3298.12 --> 3298.56] lives -[3298.56 --> 3298.82] of -[3298.82 --> 3298.98] the -[3298.98 --> 3299.26] people -[3299.26 --> 3299.48] we -[3299.48 --> 3299.72] might -[3299.72 --> 3299.92] not -[3299.92 --> 3300.20] yet -[3300.20 --> 3300.54] know -[3300.54 --> 3301.56] we've -[3301.56 --> 3301.76] missed -[3301.76 --> 3301.98] the -[3301.98 --> 3302.18] mark -[3302.18 --> 3302.30] of -[3302.30 --> 3302.42] the -[3302.42 --> 3302.86] gospel -[3302.86 --> 3304.66] the -[3304.66 --> 3305.68] affections -[3305.68 --> 3305.98] you -[3305.98 --> 3306.42] have -[3306.42 --> 3306.94] for -[3306.94 --> 3307.36] Jesus -[3307.36 --> 3307.74] are -[3307.74 --> 3308.00] made -[3308.00 --> 3308.56] real -[3308.56 --> 3308.88] when -[3308.88 --> 3309.04] they -[3309.04 --> 3309.24] are -[3309.24 --> 3309.96] effective -[3309.96 --> 3311.02] in -[3311.02 --> 3311.16] the -[3311.16 --> 3311.36] way -[3311.36 --> 3311.62] you -[3311.62 --> 3311.94] live -[3311.94 --> 3312.16] your -[3312.16 --> 3312.66] life -[3312.66 --> 3314.62] if -[3314.62 --> 3315.02] not -[3315.02 --> 3316.32] we've -[3316.32 --> 3316.74] just -[3316.74 --> 3317.28] become -[3317.28 --> 3317.58] the -[3317.58 --> 3317.94] self -[3317.94 --> 3318.68] justifying -[3318.68 --> 3319.40] religious -[3319.40 --> 3319.86] expert -[3319.86 --> 3320.08] who -[3320.08 --> 3320.32] misses -[3320.32 --> 3320.60] the -[3320.60 --> 3320.92] heart -[3320.92 --> 3321.56] of -[3321.56 --> 3321.68] the -[3321.68 --> 3322.08] gospel -[3322.08 --> 3325.76] now -[3325.76 --> 3328.70] I -[3328.70 --> 3329.08] think -[3329.08 --> 3329.48] that -[3329.48 --> 3330.62] the -[3330.62 --> 3331.30] genius -[3331.30 --> 3331.74] of -[3331.74 --> 3332.00] this -[3332.00 --> 3332.46] parable -[3332.46 --> 3333.02] comes -[3333.02 --> 3334.04] in -[3334.04 --> 3334.24] the -[3334.24 --> 3334.84] inversion -[3334.84 --> 3335.52] not -[3335.52 --> 3335.70] in -[3335.70 --> 3335.82] the -[3335.82 --> 3336.18] inversion -[3336.18 --> 3336.54] just -[3336.54 --> 3336.74] of -[3336.74 --> 3336.92] the -[3336.92 --> 3337.64] expectations -[3337.64 --> 3338.10] where -[3338.10 --> 3338.26] the -[3338.26 --> 3338.96] hero -[3338.96 --> 3339.30] of -[3339.30 --> 3339.52] this -[3339.52 --> 3339.92] story -[3339.92 --> 3340.18] is -[3340.18 --> 3340.34] a -[3340.34 --> 3340.64] hated -[3340.64 --> 3341.68] Samaritan -[3341.68 --> 3342.64] you -[3342.64 --> 3342.82] don't -[3342.82 --> 3343.00] know -[3343.00 --> 3343.24] the -[3343.24 --> 3343.62] story -[3343.62 --> 3344.56] centuries -[3344.56 --> 3345.18] before -[3345.18 --> 3346.12] Jesus -[3346.12 --> 3346.88] most -[3346.88 --> 3347.10] of -[3347.10 --> 3347.24] the -[3347.24 --> 3347.68] Jews -[3347.68 --> 3348.00] were -[3348.00 --> 3348.94] exiled -[3348.94 --> 3349.16] and -[3349.16 --> 3349.52] carried -[3349.52 --> 3349.78] into -[3349.78 --> 3350.24] captivity -[3350.24 --> 3350.88] in -[3350.88 --> 3351.38] Babylon -[3351.38 --> 3351.68] they -[3351.68 --> 3351.82] were -[3351.82 --> 3352.14] carried -[3352.14 --> 3352.40] away -[3352.40 --> 3352.60] by -[3352.60 --> 3352.78] a -[3352.78 --> 3353.06] foreign -[3353.06 --> 3353.76] army -[3353.76 --> 3354.80] this -[3354.80 --> 3354.92] is -[3354.92 --> 3355.06] the -[3355.06 --> 3355.32] story -[3355.32 --> 3355.52] of -[3355.52 --> 3355.86] Daniel -[3355.86 --> 3356.08] and -[3356.08 --> 3356.42] Jeremiah -[3356.42 --> 3356.78] and -[3356.78 --> 3357.38] Ezekiel -[3357.38 --> 3357.84] and -[3357.84 --> 3358.08] some -[3358.08 --> 3358.24] of -[3358.24 --> 3358.38] the -[3358.38 --> 3358.68] Jewish -[3358.68 --> 3359.04] people -[3359.04 --> 3359.20] who -[3359.20 --> 3359.30] were -[3359.30 --> 3359.50] left -[3359.50 --> 3359.86] behind -[3359.86 --> 3360.06] in -[3360.06 --> 3360.26] the -[3360.26 --> 3360.98] region -[3360.98 --> 3362.14] especially -[3362.14 --> 3362.58] the -[3362.58 --> 3363.80] northwestern -[3363.80 --> 3364.06] part -[3364.06 --> 3364.38] away -[3364.38 --> 3364.68] from -[3364.68 --> 3365.28] Jerusalem -[3365.28 --> 3366.42] they -[3366.42 --> 3367.02] left -[3367.02 --> 3367.48] behind -[3367.48 --> 3367.80] they -[3367.80 --> 3368.86] intermarried -[3368.86 --> 3369.46] and started -[3369.46 --> 3369.94] mixing -[3369.94 --> 3370.86] with the -[3370.86 --> 3371.92] indigenous -[3371.92 --> 3372.76] population -[3372.76 --> 3373.14] who were -[3373.14 --> 3373.28] there -[3373.28 --> 3373.60] before -[3373.60 --> 3373.78] them -[3373.78 --> 3373.96] the -[3373.96 --> 3374.50] Canaanite -[3374.50 --> 3375.06] people -[3375.06 --> 3376.04] and -[3376.04 --> 3376.20] what -[3376.20 --> 3376.36] they -[3376.36 --> 3376.72] did -[3376.72 --> 3377.24] essentially -[3377.24 --> 3377.58] was -[3377.58 --> 3378.02] form -[3378.02 --> 3378.76] a new -[3378.76 --> 3379.36] tribe -[3379.36 --> 3379.70] and -[3379.70 --> 3379.94] with -[3379.94 --> 3380.14] that -[3380.14 --> 3380.54] a new -[3380.54 --> 3381.24] religion -[3381.24 --> 3381.54] so -[3381.54 --> 3381.68] they -[3381.68 --> 3381.86] took -[3381.86 --> 3382.22] parts -[3382.22 --> 3382.40] of -[3382.40 --> 3382.54] their -[3382.54 --> 3382.96] Jewish -[3382.96 --> 3383.46] religious -[3383.46 --> 3384.14] history -[3384.14 --> 3384.82] and -[3384.82 --> 3384.98] they -[3384.98 --> 3385.28] took -[3385.28 --> 3386.18] parts -[3386.18 --> 3386.40] of -[3386.40 --> 3386.58] the -[3386.58 --> 3387.12] Canaanite -[3387.12 --> 3387.58] religion -[3387.58 --> 3388.26] that was -[3388.26 --> 3388.72] in there -[3388.72 --> 3388.90] so -[3388.90 --> 3389.66] the -[3389.66 --> 3390.34] Samaritans -[3390.34 --> 3390.62] took -[3390.62 --> 3391.02] the -[3391.02 --> 3391.84] Pentateuch -[3391.84 --> 3392.32] the first -[3392.32 --> 3392.98] five books -[3392.98 --> 3393.32] of the -[3393.32 --> 3393.62] Bible -[3393.62 --> 3394.60] but they -[3394.60 --> 3395.16] didn't -[3395.16 --> 3395.96] carry and -[3395.96 --> 3396.44] believe in -[3396.44 --> 3396.94] the Psalms -[3396.94 --> 3397.20] or the -[3397.20 --> 3397.54] prophets -[3397.54 --> 3398.92] they took -[3398.92 --> 3399.40] those -[3399.40 --> 3399.74] and they -[3399.74 --> 3400.68] mixed it -[3400.68 --> 3401.04] with -[3401.04 --> 3401.64] Canaanite -[3401.64 --> 3402.06] religion -[3402.06 --> 3402.36] to -[3402.36 --> 3402.84] Baal -[3402.84 --> 3403.20] and -[3403.20 --> 3403.78] Asherah -[3403.78 --> 3404.10] and the -[3404.10 --> 3404.34] like -[3404.34 --> 3404.96] and mess -[3404.96 --> 3405.18] them -[3405.18 --> 3405.60] together -[3405.60 --> 3406.40] and so -[3406.40 --> 3407.50] Jews -[3407.50 --> 3408.12] who eventually -[3408.12 --> 3408.78] came back -[3408.78 --> 3409.40] from exile -[3409.40 --> 3409.88] and settled -[3409.88 --> 3410.48] back in -[3410.48 --> 3411.16] the land -[3411.16 --> 3411.82] considered -[3411.82 --> 3412.22] these -[3412.22 --> 3413.32] Samaritans -[3413.32 --> 3414.42] racially -[3414.42 --> 3415.34] inferior -[3415.34 --> 3416.92] because they -[3416.92 --> 3417.80] had intermarried -[3417.80 --> 3418.20] and they -[3418.20 --> 3418.70] called them -[3418.70 --> 3419.54] heretics -[3419.54 --> 3420.52] because they -[3420.52 --> 3421.14] had changed -[3421.14 --> 3421.88] and compromised -[3421.88 --> 3423.30] their religion -[3423.30 --> 3425.80] and so -[3425.80 --> 3426.32] that the -[3426.32 --> 3427.16] hero of -[3427.16 --> 3427.98] this story -[3427.98 --> 3428.70] is a -[3428.70 --> 3429.32] Samaritan -[3429.32 --> 3430.82] is obviously -[3430.82 --> 3431.60] an inversion -[3431.60 --> 3432.50] of expectations -[3432.50 --> 3434.48] I tried to -[3434.48 --> 3435.14] convey it a little -[3435.14 --> 3435.86] bit as we -[3435.86 --> 3436.32] read it -[3436.32 --> 3437.24] but in verse -[3437.24 --> 3438.24] 33 when Jesus -[3438.24 --> 3438.98] is telling the -[3438.98 --> 3439.44] story -[3439.44 --> 3440.86] says but a -[3440.86 --> 3441.68] Samaritan -[3441.68 --> 3443.02] it's likely -[3443.02 --> 3443.96] that you -[3443.96 --> 3444.38] can imagine -[3444.38 --> 3444.76] the crowd -[3444.76 --> 3445.34] jeering -[3445.34 --> 3446.18] when they -[3446.18 --> 3446.70] hear that -[3446.70 --> 3449.32] but -[3449.32 --> 3451.02] there's -[3451.02 --> 3451.64] also -[3451.64 --> 3453.22] dare I -[3453.22 --> 3453.34] say -[3453.34 --> 3454.40] more profound -[3454.40 --> 3455.50] inversion -[3455.50 --> 3456.08] that takes -[3456.08 --> 3456.52] place -[3456.52 --> 3456.88] in the -[3456.88 --> 3457.04] very -[3457.04 --> 3457.76] question -[3457.76 --> 3458.76] that Jesus -[3458.76 --> 3459.32] asks -[3459.32 --> 3460.00] and this -[3460.00 --> 3460.28] is our -[3460.28 --> 3460.70] second -[3460.70 --> 3461.46] question -[3461.46 --> 3461.86] now -[3461.86 --> 3463.16] so remember -[3463.16 --> 3463.60] the expert -[3463.60 --> 3464.12] in the law -[3464.12 --> 3465.28] asked Jesus -[3465.28 --> 3466.00] who is -[3466.00 --> 3466.96] my neighbor -[3466.96 --> 3467.68] as he tried -[3467.68 --> 3468.36] to justify -[3468.36 --> 3468.92] himself -[3468.92 --> 3469.30] and so -[3469.30 --> 3469.64] Jesus -[3469.64 --> 3470.14] tells -[3470.14 --> 3470.56] this -[3470.56 --> 3471.52] parable -[3471.52 --> 3472.26] and then -[3472.26 --> 3472.60] Jesus -[3472.60 --> 3473.10] ends -[3473.10 --> 3473.94] by asking -[3473.94 --> 3474.56] which -[3474.56 --> 3475.16] of these -[3475.16 --> 3475.62] three -[3475.62 --> 3476.18] do you -[3476.18 --> 3476.56] think -[3476.56 --> 3477.12] was a -[3477.12 --> 3477.52] neighbor -[3477.52 --> 3478.26] to the -[3478.26 --> 3478.54] man -[3478.54 --> 3478.76] who -[3478.76 --> 3479.36] fell -[3479.36 --> 3479.60] into -[3479.60 --> 3479.78] the -[3479.78 --> 3480.00] hands -[3480.00 --> 3480.22] of the -[3480.22 --> 3480.52] robber -[3480.52 --> 3481.76] you get -[3481.76 --> 3482.42] the difference -[3482.42 --> 3482.66] there -[3482.66 --> 3482.86] right -[3482.86 --> 3483.24] the man -[3483.24 --> 3483.68] asks -[3483.68 --> 3484.12] the expert -[3484.12 --> 3484.44] in the law -[3484.44 --> 3484.82] says who -[3484.82 --> 3485.28] is my -[3485.28 --> 3485.62] neighbor -[3485.62 --> 3486.50] and Jesus -[3486.50 --> 3487.46] asks which -[3487.46 --> 3488.00] of these -[3488.00 --> 3488.32] ones -[3488.32 --> 3488.84] acted -[3488.84 --> 3489.56] neighborly -[3489.56 --> 3491.14] right -[3491.14 --> 3491.72] the man -[3491.72 --> 3492.26] the expert -[3492.26 --> 3492.70] wanted to -[3492.70 --> 3493.36] put a -[3493.36 --> 3493.68] quote -[3493.68 --> 3494.66] justifiable -[3494.66 --> 3495.32] limits -[3495.32 --> 3495.86] on his -[3495.86 --> 3496.38] charity -[3496.38 --> 3497.32] Jesus -[3497.32 --> 3498.10] makes you -[3498.10 --> 3498.66] ask how -[3498.66 --> 3498.90] do I -[3498.90 --> 3499.12] become -[3499.12 --> 3499.28] a -[3499.28 --> 3499.50] neighbor -[3499.50 --> 3502.40] there's -[3502.40 --> 3503.90] a -[3503.90 --> 3505.30] Cuban -[3505.30 --> 3505.76] born -[3505.76 --> 3506.28] American -[3506.28 --> 3507.00] historian -[3507.00 --> 3507.30] by the -[3507.30 --> 3507.44] name -[3507.44 --> 3507.64] of -[3507.64 --> 3508.06] Justo -[3508.06 --> 3508.60] Gonzalez -[3508.60 --> 3509.26] and -[3509.26 --> 3509.88] theologian -[3509.88 --> 3510.98] and he -[3510.98 --> 3511.30] puts it -[3511.30 --> 3511.58] it's a bit -[3511.58 --> 3511.92] of a long -[3511.92 --> 3512.42] quote so it'll -[3512.42 --> 3512.80] be on the -[3512.80 --> 3513.28] screen there -[3513.28 --> 3515.60] he says -[3515.60 --> 3516.48] Jesus -[3516.48 --> 3517.06] final -[3517.06 --> 3517.62] injunction -[3517.62 --> 3518.08] to the -[3518.08 --> 3518.40] lawyer -[3518.40 --> 3519.08] go and -[3519.08 --> 3519.24] do -[3519.24 --> 3519.74] likewise -[3519.74 --> 3520.76] does not -[3520.76 --> 3521.20] simply -[3521.20 --> 3522.04] mean go -[3522.04 --> 3522.84] and act -[3522.84 --> 3523.46] in love -[3523.46 --> 3523.84] to your -[3523.84 --> 3524.18] neighbor -[3524.18 --> 3525.26] but rather -[3525.26 --> 3526.12] go and -[3526.12 --> 3526.94] become a -[3526.94 --> 3527.42] neighbor to -[3527.42 --> 3527.98] those in -[3527.98 --> 3528.74] need no -[3528.74 --> 3529.22] matter how -[3529.22 --> 3529.88] alien they -[3529.88 --> 3530.34] may be -[3530.34 --> 3531.78] it's not -[3531.78 --> 3532.22] just a matter -[3532.22 --> 3532.72] of loving -[3532.72 --> 3533.22] and serving -[3533.22 --> 3533.68] those who -[3533.68 --> 3534.16] are near -[3534.16 --> 3534.66] us but -[3534.66 --> 3535.72] also drawing -[3535.72 --> 3536.46] near to -[3536.46 --> 3537.14] those who -[3537.14 --> 3537.80] are for -[3537.80 --> 3538.20] whatever -[3538.20 --> 3538.76] reason -[3538.76 --> 3539.68] racial -[3539.68 --> 3540.24] ethnic -[3540.24 --> 3540.82] theological -[3540.82 --> 3541.38] political -[3541.38 --> 3542.56] may seem -[3542.56 --> 3543.08] alien -[3543.08 --> 3544.30] to us -[3544.30 --> 3547.06] that's the -[3547.06 --> 3548.02] amazing thing -[3548.02 --> 3548.50] that's going -[3548.50 --> 3549.54] on in this -[3549.54 --> 3550.10] story it's -[3550.10 --> 3550.54] not about -[3550.54 --> 3551.32] figuring out -[3551.32 --> 3552.14] who is or -[3552.14 --> 3552.78] who isn't -[3552.78 --> 3553.70] your neighbor -[3553.70 --> 3554.50] right when -[3554.50 --> 3554.92] you start -[3554.92 --> 3555.36] trying to -[3555.36 --> 3556.00] parse that -[3556.00 --> 3557.44] out you've -[3557.44 --> 3557.78] missed the -[3557.78 --> 3558.10] point of -[3558.10 --> 3558.86] Jesus parable -[3558.86 --> 3561.32] instead this -[3561.32 --> 3561.78] is about -[3561.78 --> 3563.52] you being -[3563.52 --> 3564.54] neighborly -[3564.54 --> 3566.26] this isn't -[3566.26 --> 3566.62] about trying -[3566.62 --> 3567.06] to figure out -[3567.06 --> 3567.96] who is your -[3567.96 --> 3568.54] neighbor but -[3568.54 --> 3569.56] how you are -[3569.56 --> 3570.12] a neighbor -[3570.12 --> 3571.36] to everyone -[3571.36 --> 3572.54] it's not -[3572.54 --> 3573.14] about them -[3573.14 --> 3574.78] it's about -[3574.78 --> 3575.30] us -[3575.30 --> 3577.80] this is -[3577.80 --> 3578.32] about you -[3578.32 --> 3578.96] serving -[3578.96 --> 3579.88] anyone -[3579.88 --> 3580.98] and everyone -[3580.98 --> 3582.74] anything else -[3582.74 --> 3584.38] is just an -[3584.38 --> 3585.18] excuse to be -[3585.18 --> 3585.68] selfish -[3585.68 --> 3588.72] now the -[3588.72 --> 3589.34] miracle of -[3589.34 --> 3589.94] the church -[3589.94 --> 3590.46] the miracle -[3590.46 --> 3591.42] that is the -[3591.42 --> 3591.96] body of -[3591.96 --> 3592.32] Christ -[3592.32 --> 3593.00] is that -[3593.00 --> 3593.76] God takes -[3593.76 --> 3594.70] people who -[3594.70 --> 3595.20] would be -[3595.20 --> 3595.88] natural -[3595.88 --> 3596.58] enemies -[3596.58 --> 3597.84] and he -[3597.84 --> 3598.46] makes us -[3598.46 --> 3599.14] brothers and -[3599.14 --> 3599.64] sisters -[3599.64 --> 3599.76] sisters -[3599.76 --> 3602.36] all right -[3602.36 --> 3602.74] this is an -[3602.74 --> 3604.02] example here -[3604.02 --> 3604.76] and this one -[3604.76 --> 3605.60] is for the -[3605.60 --> 3607.16] kids and I -[3607.16 --> 3607.60] can get away -[3607.60 --> 3607.88] with this -[3607.88 --> 3608.34] because my -[3608.34 --> 3608.82] kids are not -[3608.82 --> 3609.22] in service -[3609.22 --> 3609.68] today they're -[3609.68 --> 3610.08] helping in -[3610.08 --> 3610.44] children's -[3610.44 --> 3610.92] worship time -[3610.92 --> 3611.82] so I won't -[3611.82 --> 3612.26] get in trouble -[3612.26 --> 3612.66] for using -[3612.66 --> 3613.08] them as a -[3613.08 --> 3613.30] negative -[3613.30 --> 3613.78] example -[3613.78 --> 3617.40] I ask my -[3617.40 --> 3618.20] kids all -[3618.20 --> 3619.00] the time to -[3619.00 --> 3619.68] to do -[3619.68 --> 3620.24] something to -[3620.24 --> 3620.64] help with -[3620.64 --> 3621.50] something to -[3621.50 --> 3622.14] clean up a -[3622.14 --> 3622.68] mess that's -[3622.68 --> 3623.10] in the in -[3623.10 --> 3623.60] the playroom -[3623.60 --> 3625.66] and Nora -[3625.66 --> 3626.36] will say -[3626.36 --> 3627.58] Malachi made -[3627.58 --> 3628.32] that mess I -[3628.32 --> 3628.68] don't have to -[3628.68 --> 3629.28] clean it up -[3629.28 --> 3630.72] Malachi will -[3630.72 --> 3631.26] say Nora -[3631.26 --> 3631.86] did that -[3631.86 --> 3632.60] that's not -[3632.60 --> 3633.18] my job -[3633.18 --> 3635.08] and as true -[3635.08 --> 3635.60] as that may -[3635.60 --> 3636.52] be right -[3636.52 --> 3636.96] what the -[3636.96 --> 3637.80] story of the -[3637.80 --> 3638.48] good Samaritan -[3638.48 --> 3639.46] is telling us -[3639.46 --> 3640.20] is that that -[3640.20 --> 3640.74] doesn't matter -[3640.74 --> 3642.44] instead -[3642.44 --> 3644.14] kids and -[3644.14 --> 3644.78] my kids -[3644.78 --> 3645.48] please hear -[3645.48 --> 3645.78] from a -[3645.78 --> 3646.10] distance -[3646.10 --> 3647.20] take this -[3647.20 --> 3647.48] as an -[3647.48 --> 3648.12] opportunity -[3648.12 --> 3649.28] right to -[3649.28 --> 3650.58] to love -[3650.58 --> 3651.70] like God -[3651.70 --> 3652.28] loves you -[3652.28 --> 3653.82] right if you -[3653.82 --> 3654.16] would like -[3654.16 --> 3654.66] someone to -[3654.66 --> 3655.24] clean up your -[3655.24 --> 3656.34] toys be the -[3656.34 --> 3657.14] kind of kid -[3657.14 --> 3657.76] who cleans up -[3657.76 --> 3658.40] someone else's -[3658.40 --> 3659.98] toys or if -[3659.98 --> 3660.38] you would like -[3660.38 --> 3661.62] to be included -[3661.62 --> 3662.54] in playing with -[3662.54 --> 3663.40] other kids be -[3663.40 --> 3663.94] the kind of -[3663.94 --> 3664.46] kid who -[3664.46 --> 3665.72] includes others -[3665.72 --> 3666.10] in your -[3666.10 --> 3666.52] playing -[3666.52 --> 3670.04] now parents -[3670.04 --> 3670.68] and older -[3670.68 --> 3671.32] people among -[3671.32 --> 3672.56] us that's a -[3672.56 --> 3673.10] pretty easy -[3673.10 --> 3673.80] zoom out am -[3673.80 --> 3674.18] I right -[3674.18 --> 3675.50] right whatever -[3675.50 --> 3676.40] age you are -[3676.40 --> 3677.16] this isn't -[3677.16 --> 3677.88] about putting -[3677.88 --> 3678.66] limits on -[3678.66 --> 3679.40] living the -[3679.40 --> 3679.92] love of -[3679.92 --> 3680.82] God right -[3680.82 --> 3681.72] God's love -[3681.72 --> 3682.42] was big enough -[3682.42 --> 3683.00] to include -[3683.00 --> 3683.80] you while you -[3683.80 --> 3684.38] were sinners -[3684.38 --> 3685.06] and enemies -[3685.06 --> 3687.34] make your -[3687.34 --> 3687.94] love big -[3687.94 --> 3688.46] enough to -[3688.46 --> 3688.96] include -[3688.96 --> 3689.64] another -[3689.64 --> 3690.32] neighbor or -[3690.32 --> 3690.98] stranger or -[3690.98 --> 3692.38] alien or -[3692.38 --> 3692.72] enemy -[3692.72 --> 3697.92] all right so -[3697.92 --> 3699.14] far we've -[3699.14 --> 3700.36] seen two -[3700.36 --> 3702.64] real life -[3702.64 --> 3703.90] applications from -[3703.90 --> 3704.52] this parable -[3704.52 --> 3705.28] we've seen two -[3705.28 --> 3706.38] ways that this -[3706.38 --> 3707.22] connects if you -[3707.22 --> 3707.92] love God you -[3707.92 --> 3708.52] will love your -[3708.52 --> 3709.64] neighbor and it -[3709.64 --> 3710.36] doesn't matter who -[3710.36 --> 3710.84] you might be -[3710.84 --> 3711.88] interacting with it -[3711.88 --> 3712.86] matters that you -[3712.86 --> 3714.00] that we are the -[3714.00 --> 3715.00] Christ like -[3715.00 --> 3715.62] neighbor and so -[3715.62 --> 3717.02] here's where I -[3717.02 --> 3717.48] want to end -[3717.48 --> 3719.62] because it would -[3719.62 --> 3720.56] be easy to take -[3720.56 --> 3722.28] this parable and -[3722.28 --> 3722.98] in fact many -[3722.98 --> 3724.12] before me have -[3724.12 --> 3724.90] done this -[3724.90 --> 3728.84] it would be easy -[3728.84 --> 3729.44] to take this -[3729.44 --> 3730.96] parable especially -[3730.96 --> 3731.98] in part because -[3731.98 --> 3733.58] it starts off with -[3733.58 --> 3734.24] the question what -[3734.24 --> 3735.40] must I do to -[3735.40 --> 3736.62] inherit eternal -[3736.62 --> 3737.56] life and it ends -[3737.56 --> 3738.38] with Jesus saying -[3738.38 --> 3739.34] go and do -[3739.34 --> 3740.82] likewise it would -[3740.82 --> 3741.70] be easy to take -[3741.70 --> 3742.52] this parable and -[3742.52 --> 3743.16] then turn it -[3743.16 --> 3743.96] into a sort of -[3743.96 --> 3745.52] checklist of -[3745.52 --> 3747.62] things to do and -[3747.62 --> 3748.24] when we turn this -[3748.24 --> 3749.18] into a checklist of -[3749.18 --> 3750.22] things to do we -[3750.22 --> 3751.86] end up I'm afraid -[3751.86 --> 3753.34] that of leaving -[3753.34 --> 3754.72] this place feeling -[3754.72 --> 3755.40] more heavily -[3755.40 --> 3756.54] burdened with -[3756.54 --> 3757.08] something that -[3757.08 --> 3757.90] something else I -[3757.90 --> 3758.86] have to do right -[3758.86 --> 3760.30] another box I have -[3760.30 --> 3761.24] to check another -[3761.24 --> 3762.66] weight that is on -[3762.66 --> 3763.62] my shoulders so -[3763.62 --> 3764.70] that I can be a -[3764.70 --> 3765.98] good person or a -[3765.98 --> 3767.46] good enough person -[3767.46 --> 3769.36] but again if we do -[3769.36 --> 3770.06] that with this -[3770.06 --> 3771.54] parable we miss the -[3771.54 --> 3772.54] mark of what Jesus -[3772.54 --> 3773.70] is teaching we -[3773.70 --> 3774.80] miss the mark of -[3774.80 --> 3775.54] the gospel because -[3775.54 --> 3778.12] you see Jesus is -[3778.12 --> 3780.26] the ultimate good -[3780.26 --> 3781.02] Samaritan -[3781.02 --> 3785.78] Jesus was despised -[3785.78 --> 3787.54] and rejected by his -[3787.54 --> 3789.02] own and yet he -[3789.02 --> 3790.92] heals us from sin -[3790.92 --> 3792.40] and death he takes -[3792.40 --> 3793.80] our shame and -[3793.80 --> 3795.28] clothes us with his -[3795.28 --> 3797.14] righteousness he -[3797.14 --> 3798.70] brings us to the to -[3798.70 --> 3799.88] the father's house -[3799.88 --> 3800.96] where a room is -[3800.96 --> 3802.24] already waiting for -[3802.24 --> 3804.54] you that's how the -[3804.54 --> 3805.78] good Samaritan changes -[3805.78 --> 3806.98] your life because the -[3806.98 --> 3807.84] true and better good -[3807.84 --> 3809.04] Samaritan is Jesus -[3809.04 --> 3811.74] right you can see it -[3811.74 --> 3812.70] that the expert in the -[3812.70 --> 3814.18] law asks what must I -[3814.18 --> 3816.14] do to inherit eternal -[3816.14 --> 3817.40] life let me ask you -[3817.40 --> 3818.28] this question what do -[3818.28 --> 3819.48] you do to inherit -[3819.48 --> 3820.18] anything -[3820.18 --> 3822.70] nothing -[3823.38 --> 3825.48] right you don't earn -[3825.48 --> 3828.54] inheritance right it is -[3828.54 --> 3830.38] freely or begrudgingly -[3830.38 --> 3832.32] given but it's given to -[3832.32 --> 3834.40] you in fact we'll -[3834.40 --> 3835.60] stretch the metaphor a -[3835.60 --> 3836.74] little further right the -[3836.74 --> 3838.56] only time ordinarily you -[3838.56 --> 3840.98] get an inheritance is when -[3840.98 --> 3844.28] someone dies that's what -[3844.28 --> 3847.08] Jesus does he dies to give -[3847.08 --> 3848.48] you an eternal inheritance -[3848.48 --> 3851.52] from the father he dies so -[3851.52 --> 3852.82] that that you might have -[3852.82 --> 3855.28] life and that life starts -[3855.28 --> 3857.76] right now and that life -[3857.76 --> 3860.30] looks a certain way -[3860.30 --> 3863.78] what does that life look -[3863.78 --> 3864.86] like you ask -[3864.86 --> 3868.14] that's the same question as -[3868.14 --> 3870.80] who was a neighbor to this -[3870.80 --> 3873.44] man that the life of Jesus -[3873.44 --> 3876.14] begs the question in you to -[3876.14 --> 3879.12] whom will you be a neighbor -[3879.12 --> 3882.04] it's because Jesus lived the -[3882.04 --> 3883.34] life I should have lived and -[3883.34 --> 3884.92] died the death that I -[3884.92 --> 3886.16] that I deserved it is -[3886.16 --> 3887.92] because Jesus found me -[3887.92 --> 3889.96] lifeless and broken on the -[3889.96 --> 3890.90] side of the road and -[3890.90 --> 3892.42] restored my life is because -[3892.42 --> 3894.28] of Jesus that I have tasted -[3894.28 --> 3896.12] and seen the love that the -[3896.12 --> 3898.10] father has lavished on us it -[3898.10 --> 3899.78] is because of Jesus that I -[3899.78 --> 3902.22] now that that we now who -[3902.22 --> 3904.40] know him and who love him can -[3904.40 --> 3907.82] love the God who saves it is -[3907.82 --> 3909.22] because of Jesus that we can -[3909.22 --> 3910.94] now love our neighbor or the -[3910.94 --> 3912.90] stranger or the alien or even -[3912.90 --> 3915.06] the enemy it is because of -[3915.06 --> 3917.90] Jesus that we get to be -[3917.90 --> 3921.40] neighbors and that is real -[3921.40 --> 3923.82] life gospel living that is -[3923.82 --> 3926.76] living the way of Jesus as the -[3926.76 --> 3929.86] only truly way to live or the -[3929.86 --> 3934.14] only way to truly live our sin -[3934.14 --> 3936.12] that makes us enemies of God -[3936.12 --> 3939.12] but thanks be to God in grace he -[3939.12 --> 3941.78] makes us his children through his -[3941.78 --> 3945.04] love and by grace we get to live -[3945.04 --> 3949.02] that life of love as neighbors to -[3949.02 --> 3949.44] all -[3949.44 --> 3955.94] if you know true and better good -[3955.94 --> 3956.50] Samaritan -[3956.50 --> 3962.10] you get to be the neighbor to all -[3962.10 --> 3967.20] who you find on your path that is -[3967.20 --> 3969.48] how the love of God is made real in -[3969.48 --> 3973.62] the world today amen let's pray -[3973.62 --> 3973.98] together -[3973.98 --> 3982.44] Lord our God reveal to us in power -[3982.44 --> 3986.80] your amazing love in the gospel as we -[3986.80 --> 3989.20] look to the story of your good news as -[3989.20 --> 3991.08] we look to the story of the -[3991.08 --> 3993.72] incarnation of Jesus his perfect life -[3993.72 --> 3995.38] lived in our place as we look to the -[3995.38 --> 3997.50] truth of his death on the cross and -[3997.50 --> 3999.56] the truth of his resurrection three -[3999.56 --> 4001.42] days later as we look to the truth of -[4001.42 --> 4003.54] his ascension to the right hand of the -[4003.54 --> 4005.38] father as we look to the truth as that -[4005.38 --> 4007.08] he and the father from there have sent -[4007.08 --> 4009.58] to us the Holy Spirit that we now -[4009.58 --> 4012.28] might have lives transformed that we -[4012.28 --> 4016.28] now might be new creations make us new -[4016.28 --> 4022.14] in your love we pray make us new so -[4022.14 --> 4027.70] that we can go and live that love in -[4027.70 --> 4028.12] the world -[4028.12 --> 4034.64] God whatever we have put in the way of -[4034.64 --> 4037.46] living your love and experiencing more -[4037.46 --> 4042.02] of it we pray pierce through directly to -[4042.02 --> 4042.96] our hearts -[4042.96 --> 4046.94] that we might come to Jesus the true and -[4046.94 --> 4048.24] better good Samaritan that he might -[4048.24 --> 4049.46] bind us up -[4049.46 --> 4052.58] and send us on our way restored -[4052.58 --> 4056.16] it is in his name we pray -[4056.16 --> 4057.56] amen -[4057.56 --> 4059.56] amen -[4059.56 --> 4063.26] amen -[4063.26 --> 4089.14] To the desperate eyes and reaching hands, -[4089.14 --> 4094.14] To the suffering and the lame, -[4094.14 --> 4099.14] To the ones the world has cast aside, -[4099.14 --> 4104.14] Where you want me, I will be. -[4104.14 --> 4108.14] I will go, I will go, I will go, -[4108.14 --> 4110.14] I will go, I will send me to the world, -[4110.14 --> 4114.14] To the lost, to the poor and lonely, -[4114.14 --> 4117.14] To the guilty that I am, -[4117.14 --> 4119.14] And clear within your hands, -[4119.14 --> 4126.14] I will go, I will go, I will go, I will go, I will go, I will go, I will go, I will go. -[4126.14 --> 4129.14] Be blind with privilege, -[4129.14 --> 4135.14] Give me eyes to see the pain, -[4135.14 --> 4140.14] And the blessing you poured out on me, -[4140.14 --> 4145.14] Will not be spent on me in pain. -[4145.14 --> 4150.14] And the life made me used for you. -[4150.14 --> 4156.14] I'm a woman, I'm a woman, I'm a woman who was sent to me. -[4156.14 --> 4161.14] To the lost, to the poor and lonely, -[4161.14 --> 4163.14] And the guilty that I am, -[4163.14 --> 4172.14] I will go, I will go, I will go, I will go, I will go, I will go, I will go. -[4172.14 --> 4177.14] I want to live for you, the way you need me. -[4177.14 --> 4182.14] I want to follow you. -[4182.14 --> 4187.14] I want to live for you, the way you need me. -[4187.14 --> 4190.14] I want to follow you. -[4190.14 --> 4191.14] I want to live for you. -[4191.14 --> 4196.14] I want to live for you, the way you need me. -[4196.14 --> 4199.14] I want to follow you. -[4199.14 --> 4209.14] I want to go, I will go, I will go, I will go, Lord, send me to the poor, -[4209.14 --> 4214.14] To the lost, to the poor and lonely, -[4214.14 --> 4215.14] I want to live for you. -[4215.14 --> 4216.14] I want to come, if you make everything I am, -[4216.14 --> 4217.14] I want to live for you and me. -[4217.14 --> 4219.14] I want to gain something with you, the way I will get. -[4219.14 --> 4223.70] I will go, I will go, send me to you. -[4224.44 --> 4237.70] I will go, I will go, I will go, I will go, send me to the world, to the light, to the glory, and I will be the glory of my help. -[4237.70 --> 4244.70] I will go, I will go, send me to you. -[4244.70 --> 4251.70] I will go, send me to you. -[4262.42 --> 4267.08] As you go, know that God himself goes with us. -[4267.22 --> 4274.38] And before you go, please feel free to stick around and spend some time in fellowship after the service. -[4274.38 --> 4280.14] assuming everything worked well, there should be coffee and refreshments. If not, there's just -[4280.14 --> 4287.16] good company, and we all could use some good company, right? Right, no, just give me coffee. -[4287.16 --> 4294.18] There's no coffee. I'm not. Stick around. Receive the blessing of our God for the journey ahead. -[4295.74 --> 4304.02] May God go before you to guide you. May God go behind you to protect you. May God go beneath -[4304.02 --> 4311.52] you to support you. May God go beside you to befriend you. Let the blessing of God come -[4311.52 --> 4322.64] upon you today. Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Amen. -[4334.02 --> 4362.02] I will send the blinding demon, He who took the most for me. I've been purchased, I've been pardoned, bound to Him. I'm truly free. I will feel. -[4362.02 --> 4379.84] I will sing of my Redeemer, how He sought me while I slain. Who speak from the curse of sin, and from the power of the King. -[4379.84 --> 4409.82] I will sing of my Redeemer, how He sought me while I slain. I will sing of my Redeemer, He who bore my cross, my -[4409.82 --> 4418.82] He who gave my servant, He who gave my curse. He gave my servant, chose to suffer, lifted up and cast from her. -[4418.82 --> 4436.82] I will sing of my Redeemer, lift my voice to praise my Lord. Round some fire is dying mercy. I will be peace forever. -[4436.82 --> 4458.82] I will sing of my Redeemer, I will sing of my Redeemer, tell the bell the grace I've known. He'll honor with those forgiven, and one day around His throne. -[4458.82 --> 4460.82] I will sing of my Redeemer, lift my voice to praise my Lord. -[4460.82 --> 4464.82] I will sing of my Redeemer, lift my voice to praise my Lord. -[4464.82 --> 4470.82] I will sing of my praise to praise my Lord. -[4470.82 --> 4472.82] I will sing of my Redeemer, lift my voice to praise my Lord. -[4472.82 --> 4486.82] I will sing of my Redeemer, lift my voice to praise my Lord. -[4486.82 --> 4496.82] And stand by His blood and mercy. I am His forever known. -[4496.82 --> 4505.82] I am His forever known. -[4505.82 --> 4535.80] Thank you. -[4535.82 --> 4565.80] Thank you. -[4565.82 --> 4595.80] Thank you. -[4595.82 --> 4625.80] Thank you. -[4625.82 --> 4655.80] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 3, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 3, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index faebf2ee34875cc5589d6ae9a78c4bf492070d9a..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 3, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,225 +0,0 @@ -• Requesting God's presence and forgiveness -• Desiring spiritual rebirth and being "born again" -• Appreciation of God's mercy and forgiveness as a source of change and renewal -• Worship service introduction and announcements (youth camp weekend, drawing lots for deacon office) -• Invitation to visitors to connect with the church -• Children's worship time during summer months is condensed for preschoolers -• One slot available for children's worship team and additional helpers needed -• Opportunity for younger people to serve as helpers -• Next Sunday is Lord's Supper, preparing hearts and minds encouraged -• Church gathering around the table to encounter Jesus in bread and juice -• Fears being drowned in perfect love -• Being rescued by God to stand and say "I am a child of God" -• Overcoming slavery to fear -• Trusting God to work in lives and give direction -• Stepping out of comfort zones and taking risks for God's purposes -• Praying for guidance and help in reaching out to the world in love -• The scripture passages referenced are unidentified -• The concept of grace is discussed and its connection to being free from sin -• Holiness is described as Christ living within the speaker -• The need for God's presence and guidance in daily life is emphasized -• Dina Nikolai, a chaplain and refugee support mobilizer, is introduced and her work with refugees is highlighted -• The importance of giving and tithing to support church budgets and charitable causes is mentioned -• Worship music includes lyrics about surrender, sacrifice, love, and gratitude towards God -• Discussion of who can attend a class -• Introduction to children's worship time and activities for kids 3-5 years old -• Explanation of a blessing ritual during worship -• Mention of installing new council members, including Seth Baker, Dick Klein-Geltink, and John Skipper -• Acknowledgement of previous council members completing their terms, including John Fulkerts, Ken Stamm, and Peter Rolleman -• Affirmation of four names for the office of deacon, including Brenda Alkema, Jeremy Grimm, Rich Spoor, and Yap Wollschlager -• Introduction to a church service, specifically the ordination of new officers -• Drawing lots for deacon positions and inviting Glenn to participate -• Reading the names of new deacons (Brenda Alkema and Yap Wollschlager) -• Thanking willing servants (Jeremy and Rich) and acknowledging applause -• Announcing upcoming officer installations -• Congregational prayer led by Sarah -• Worship and praise of God -• Thanking God for the process of choosing deacons -• Praying for Brenda Alkema and Yap Walschlager as they take on leadership roles -• Gratitude for those who let their names stand but were not chosen -• Trust that God will fill their longing for service in another way -• Prayer for church leadership -• Thanking God for the ways leaders guide the congregation -• Expressing gratitude for community and the support of one another during difficult times -• Praying for people experiencing pain, specifically Harry Bauman following an accident. -• Mourning the loss of loved ones, including Louise and Carolyn's father -• Comforting those who feel pain and emptiness after a loss -• Praying for healing and comfort for Leslie Kuhl and Ellen -• Discussing the current challenges faced by the church community -• Expressing gratitude for the church family and its qualities of hospitality and compassion -• Equipping the body of believers to serve others -• Praying for those experiencing difficulties in relationships and hardships -• Sharing joys and blessings with one another -• Celebrating special events, such as year-end camping trips and Lord's Supper -• Looking outward to the world's pain and struggles, including war and conflict (specifically mentioning Ukraine) -• Prayer for pain and suffering -• Appreciation for worship and gathering together -• Conclusion of the "Holy Habits" series -• Discussion of spiritual disciplines and holy habits -• Reflection on community and shared experiences -• Invitation to ask and wrestle with the question of whether being a disciple of Jesus is the right way -• Discussion of holy habits and how they shape one's life -• Exploring guilt and shame related to not living up to expectations -• The need to listen and practice with a soft heart, rather than condemning oneself -• Addressing two areas: starting with holy habits and then moving on to more spiritual practices -• Discussion of holy habits from the early Church in Acts 2 -• Highlighting practices that can be found in the description of the early Church's life together -• Reading and discussion of specific verses from Acts 2, including verse 42 -• Teaching on devotionally listening to Jesus' word and worship -• Discussion of breaking bread and prayer as essential parts of Christian practice -• Offering ways for intentional devotional time, both individually and in community -• Community and living together in eternity -• Trusting God's provision and Sabbath rest -• Sharing life, faith, and story as a community -• Resistance to worldly idols and formative influences -• Giving up possessions and embracing simplicity -• Devoting oneself to being with others and serving the Lord -• Repeating the message about what shapes your habits and how they shape what you love -• Reference to a book called "You Are What You Love" by Jamie Smith -• Discussion of building intentional liturgies of practice (rhythms of resistance) in one's life -• Mention of making room for money, wealth, and time management practices -• Talents and treasures -• Using spiritual lens to view the world -• Luke 12 scripture reading -• Discipleship and serving others -• Giving to the poor and not storing up earthly wealth -• The importance of storing treasure in heaven -• No thief can steal or moth destroy where one's heart is -• Being devoted to the work of Jesus -• A phrase "little flock" is used in the Bible, specifically in Acts 20:28 and other places -• It refers to God's people, for whom Jesus has a special care and attention -• Jesus is referred to as a good shepherd who cares for His flock -• The concept of the little flock is unique in that it emphasizes Jesus' personal relationship with each individual believer -• Hypocorism (term of endearment) vs pet name -• Definition of hypocorism and its characteristics -• Case study: Sarah Harris and her research on the Shepherd themes in Luke and Acts -• Connection between Luke and Acts as written by the same person, with shared themes -• Surveys and images -• Ezekiel 34 and its interpretation -• The life and significance of the prophet Ezekiel -• Babylonian captivity and exile -• God's message through Ezekiel to give reason for Israel's exile and offer hope for restoration and return -• Ezekiel chapter 34 is discussed -• God calls leaders to account for their failure -• Leaders are accused of prioritizing themselves over the people -• God promises to take action against those who have ruled harshly and brutally -• God says He will rescue His flock from the mouths of the shepherds who have become wolves to their people. -• Throughout the Bible, there's an image of wolves coming in as leaders and stealing people away from the truth. -• Ezekiel is saying that these shepherds have become corrupt and God won't stand for it. -• God gives a promise in Ezekiel 34:11-16 that He will search for His sheep and look after them, just like a shepherd looks after his scattered flock. -• Gathering of people from nations and countries -• Bringing them to their own land, specifically Israel -• Pasturing them on the mountains of Israel and in the ravines -• Tending them in a good pasture and bringing them into rich pastures -• Grazing in the land, lying down in good grazing land, and feeding in rich pastures -• Searching for lost sheep and bringing back strays -• Binding up injured ones and strengthening the weak -• The speaker claims to be a strong and just shepherd, destroying the old leadership. -• Jesus is described as the true and better shepherd who leads with justice and restores His people. -• The image behind Jesus' words in Luke 12 is related to Ezekiel 34. -• Jesus is compared to the good shepherd promised by God to his people in captivity. -• Jesus as the Good Shepherd and Lord -• His mission to care for his followers -• Jesus' ability to know and provide for those who believe in him -• Jesus as the promised leader to restore God's people -• Jesus' role as a provider of rest and guidance for his people -• The importance of having faith in God -• Providing strength for the weak and binding up the injured -• Jesus as the Good Shepherd who will lead his flock to eternal rest and blessings -• Salvation through belief in Jesus Christ -• Acknowledging sinfulness and accepting God's grace -• Salvation is a gift from God -• Believing in the truth makes one part of God's flock and family -• God shows love through giving good things to His children -• The kingdom that God gives is more than just material possessions, but everything one has ever wanted -• The world is what Jesus reigns over, and those who are in Him have access to it -• No wonder Jesus says not to be afraid or worried -• Jesus teaches his disciples not to worry about their needs -• Jesus says to look at how God provides for the birds and wild flowers -• Instead of worrying, Jesus advises seeking His kingdom first -• This is followed by a discussion of another parable, specifically Luke 12:13-21, which tells the story of a rich man who comes after an abundant harvest -• Parable of a man with abundant harvest and no place to store it -• Building bigger barns to increase surplus -• Taking life easy, as Jesus says -• Parable of God telling the man that his life will end soon -• Questioning the point of wealth and material possessions -• Distinguishing between being rich towards oneself versus being rich towards God -• Imagery from Ezekiel 34 -• Jesus' words in the text and their relevance to Ezekiel 34 -• Not being afraid or worried, but trusting in God's plan -• The importance of selling possessions and giving to the poor -• Understanding Jesus as the Good Shepherd and its implications -• Seeing Jesus in a certain way can reveal what He loves -• Jesus loves the lost, needy, injured, and broken -• Jesus loves those who are learning, journeying in faith, and will leave everything to follow Him -• Jesus loves one who despite doubts says "My Lord and My God" -• Jesus loves those who have wandered away and are slowly wandering back -• Jesus loves those who stay faithfully by His side -• Jesus' love for all people, including marginalized groups -• Jesus dining with different individuals, such as zealots and tax collectors -• Jesus' ability to connect with people from various backgrounds -• The importance of loving others, including those who are difficult to love -• Calling to show love in one's own unique way -• Connection between love and treasure -• Heart being the true treasure -• Spending money to reveal what you love -• Using wealth to reflect Jesus' truth -• Spending time and talents on revealing what Jesus loves -• The importance of supporting the church's mission -• The work and teachings of Jesus -• Walking alongside those who are oppressed and broken -• Equipping leaders to bring justice and healing -• Addressing addiction and recovery -• Pursuing wholeness in all areas of life, including sex, food, busyness, and pride/humility -• Navigating broken relationships and holding onto hope through the Gospel -• The budget is referred to as the record of the ministries and mission of the church -• The budget reflects God's work through the church -• Tithes and offerings are mentioned as a way to support the church's mission -• The order of giving in the budget is corrected from "First Offering Budget" to placing tithes and offerings first, followed by the budget -• The speaker is talking about a church's financial situation and being within 1% of their target budget -• They mention having a surplus in expenditures due to generous giving -• The speaker praises God for the church's success and thanks those who have donated -• They discuss Jesus' love for the community and how it shouldn't stop, and that their love should continue to grow -• The speaker picks up on an idea of being rich towards God and continuing to give generously -• God's nature and relationship to wealth -• Generosity and giving in the Christian context -• The concept of being "rich towards God" -• The idea that generosity is a sign of faith, not just financial giving -• Bible teachings on generosity and stewardship -• The role of deacons in reminding congregations of the importance of giving -• The contrast between a stingy or cheapskate Christian and one who gives generously -• Changing habits and behavior -• History of the church -• Engaging with paganism -• Being faithfully Christian in today's world -• Analogies for living a faithful life -• Correspondence between ancient and modern times -• Cultural influences on spiritual health -• Mark of spiritual health: giving and receiving -• Responsibility to be good stewards of one's life -• Story from the early church about taking advantage of others for personal gain -• Diary entries and letters written by a person to others -• Attendance at catechism class to become part of the church -• Faking religiosity for personal gain and to take advantage of the community -• Hoarding wealth and celebrating one's own deceitful actions -• The story of how the church eventually gathered its resources -• Persecution of Christians -• One Christian recants his faith and is spared -• Another Christian offers to take the first's place, saving him from death -• The Church doesn't appear to care about taking advantage of the situation for its own gain -• The narrative mentions the early Church's practices and habits as described in Acts 2 -• Community and its role in drawing people to God -• The kind of community that gives generously and has faithfulness -• Praying for continued faithfulness and going as His faithfulness reveals His Kingdom -• Seeking Jesus' Kingdom first -• Praying together for inspiration, transformation, and renewal. -• Praise and sacrifice to God -• Unity with the Lord and each other -• Love for God and others, demonstrated through prayer and action -• Walking in hand with one another as Christians -• Restoration of unity among all people -• Spread the news that God is in our land and we are Christians by our love -• God's presence and guidance for protection, support, and friendship -• Jesus' love revealed to the world, not being afraid, but going in peace to serve and love the Lord -• The Lion of Judah, the Lamb who was crucified, reigning at the end of the age, gathering nations, and ruling with wisdom, mercy, and justice -• Angels crying out in praise, hail to the Lamb who was slain for the world's salvation \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 3, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 3, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 62c6006f583b595b58a05bc195d85ec6023fd85f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 3, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,5471 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 11.04] With you God, in all things, in all ways, walk humbly with you God. -[11.78 --> 16.10] It's beauty for ashes, it's morning to dancing. -[16.54 --> 20.84] It's closer and closer, the kingdom of heaven. -[21.40 --> 25.46] Beauty for ashes, it's morning to dancing. -[30.00 --> 38.80] I just see your mercy, walk humbly with you God. -[38.80 --> 48.14] In all things, in all ways, walk humbly with you God. -[60.00 --> 64.80] I need you. -[68.80 --> 69.80] I need you. -[69.80 --> 74.80] I need you. -[74.80 --> 76.96] I'm begging please again. -[77.18 --> 78.40] I need you. -[79.68 --> 81.80] Oh, I need you. -[83.60 --> 87.00] Walking down this desert road. -[87.50 --> 90.20] Water for my thirsty soul. -[90.28 --> 91.54] I need you. -[92.86 --> 94.90] Oh, I need you. -[94.90 --> 105.08] Your forgiveness is like sweet, sweet honey on my lips. -[105.70 --> 111.20] Like the sound of a symphony to my ears. -[112.36 --> 117.92] Like holy water on my skin. -[117.92 --> 120.12] Hey! -[120.12 --> 132.92] Dead man walking, slave to sin. -[132.92 --> 136.12] I want to know about being born again. -[136.28 --> 137.62] I need you. -[138.46 --> 140.92] Oh, God, I need you. -[140.92 --> 146.18] So take me to the riverside. -[146.18 --> 150.82] Take me under bath, because I need you. -[151.60 --> 154.30] Oh, God, I need you. -[155.22 --> 163.72] Your forgiveness is like sweet, sweet honey on my lips. -[163.72 --> 170.34] Like the sound of a symphony to my ears. -[172.16 --> 177.24] Like holy water on my skin. -[181.76 --> 183.84] On my skin. -[183.84 --> 192.14] I don't want to abuse your grace -[192.14 --> 195.08] God, I need it every day -[195.08 --> 201.48] It's the only thing that ever really makes me want to change -[201.48 --> 205.28] I don't want to abuse your grace -[205.28 --> 208.20] God, I need it every day -[208.20 --> 214.76] It's the only thing that ever really makes me want to change -[214.76 --> 218.40] I don't want to abuse your grace -[218.40 --> 221.38] God, I need it every day -[221.38 --> 227.34] It's the only thing that ever really makes me want to change -[227.34 --> 231.60] I don't want to abuse your grace -[231.60 --> 234.52] God, I need it every day -[234.52 --> 240.76] It's the only thing that ever really makes me want to change -[240.76 --> 242.52] Your forgiveness -[242.52 --> 249.64] It's like sweet, sweet honey on my lips -[249.64 --> 255.98] Like the sound of a symphony to my ears -[255.98 --> 260.66] It's that holy water -[260.66 --> 266.66] There's like holy water on my skin -[266.66 --> 270.66] There's like holy water on my skin -[270.66 --> 274.66] There's like holy water on my skin -[274.66 --> 280.66] Oh, it's like holy water -[280.66 --> 284.66] There's like holy water on my skin -[284.66 --> 288.66] There's like holy water on my skin -[288.66 --> 292.66] Oh, it's like holy water -[292.66 --> 298.66] Oh, it's like holy water on my skin -[298.66 --> 300.66] And that's like holy water on my skin -[300.66 --> 302.90] Oh, it's like holy water on my skin -[302.90 --> 332.88] Thank you. -[332.90 --> 362.88] Thank you. -[362.90 --> 364.90] Thank you. -[392.90 --> 394.90] Thank you. -[422.90 --> 424.90] Thank you. -[424.90 --> 426.90] Thank you. -[426.90 --> 432.90] Thank you. -[432.90 --> 434.90] Thank you. -[434.90 --> 436.90] Thank you. -[436.90 --> 446.90] Thank you. -[446.90 --> 448.90] Thank you. -[448.90 --> 450.90] Thank you. -[450.90 --> 452.90] Thank you. -[452.90 --> 454.90] Good morning. -[454.90 --> 456.90] Oh, I heard some from the back there. -[456.90 --> 458.90] Thanks, Linda. -[458.90 --> 460.90] Welcome to worship. -[460.90 --> 466.90] We are really excited to gather together on this blisteringly hot summer day. -[466.90 --> 467.90] Oh, wait. -[467.90 --> 469.90] What happened? -[469.90 --> 471.90] It was beautiful just earlier this week. -[471.90 --> 474.90] Anyway, we're really excited to gather for worship today. -[474.90 --> 475.90] My name is Chris. -[475.90 --> 483.90] I'm one of the pastors here and it's my privilege along with a couple others to lead in worship this morning. -[483.90 --> 490.90] As you look around, you might realize that the average age of our worship this morning has skyrocketed. -[490.90 --> 493.90] And that's because it's youth camp weekend. -[493.90 --> 500.90] And so all of the youth and a number of the young adults as leaders are away this morning there. -[500.90 --> 509.90] And so we've been praying for them all week, trusting that they've been having fun and have been safe, at least safe within the parameters of still yet fun. -[509.90 --> 515.90] And that this morning as they worship there, they also encounter Jesus. -[515.90 --> 519.90] And so if you're looking around and wondering what's going on, that's probably part of it. -[519.90 --> 523.90] If there are other things and questions you have, I'm happy to answer those. -[523.90 --> 525.90] And so please grab me. -[525.90 --> 533.90] If you are visiting with us this morning, either in person or online, there is a Connect card available and a digital version, a QR code. -[533.90 --> 541.90] You can scan that and we would love to hear about what's going on in your life, how we might pray for you or meet whatever needs you have. -[541.90 --> 545.90] Later today in our worship, we will draw lots for the office of deacon. -[545.90 --> 547.90] We're excited for that opportunity. -[547.90 --> 551.90] And as well, just one more announcement. -[551.90 --> 559.90] We have been asking for volunteers to sign up to lead children's worship time during the summer months. -[559.90 --> 561.90] We have a condensed version for preschoolers. -[561.90 --> 563.90] They go out and they do a story. -[563.90 --> 568.90] And we have filled all of those spaces available except for one. -[568.90 --> 570.90] So there's one slot yet available. -[570.90 --> 573.90] Please, you can go to the back table there to see that. -[573.90 --> 576.90] And we have lots of room for helpers. -[576.90 --> 578.90] And so not just teachers, but helpers. -[578.90 --> 584.90] And so this is a great opportunity for some of you younger people to jump in and serve and provide there. -[584.90 --> 588.90] And so please think about that and then sign up at the back table there. -[588.90 --> 591.90] I misspoke one more announcement. -[591.90 --> 594.90] Next week, Sunday is Lord's Supper. -[594.90 --> 600.90] We will gather as a church family around the table where we will encounter Jesus in the bread and the juice. -[600.90 --> 604.90] And so we encourage you to spend this week preparing your hearts and your minds. -[604.90 --> 611.90] If you have kids, talking to them about what that experience is like that we can come together as the body of Christ to that table. -[611.90 --> 617.90] This morning we come together as the body of Christ to worship our God and he welcomes us in this place. -[617.90 --> 624.90] And so I'm going to invite you as you're able to stand that we might receive God's welcome and greeting together. -[624.90 --> 637.90] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior. -[637.90 --> 641.90] Through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[641.90 --> 642.90] Amen. -[642.90 --> 649.90] Let's worship God this morning. -[649.90 --> 650.90] Amen. -[653.90 --> 654.90] Amen. -[658.90 --> 660.90] Amen. -[660.90 --> 662.90] Amen. -[662.90 --> 664.90] Amen. -[664.90 --> 668.90] Amen. -[668.90 --> 670.90] Amen. -[670.90 --> 671.90] Amen. -[671.90 --> 672.88] Amen. -[672.88 --> 681.20] I pick these first two songs -[681.20 --> 685.44] because in this world you can have trouble -[685.44 --> 687.64] but this just reminds us that -[687.64 --> 690.50] that Christ has overcome -[690.50 --> 692.98] and so let's join our voices -[702.88 --> 712.36] Why should I fear men -[712.36 --> 715.62] and remain the heavens -[715.62 --> 719.98] Why should I be afraid -[719.98 --> 724.10] if you put the stars in place -[724.10 --> 727.82] Why should I lose heart -[727.82 --> 731.82] when I know how great you are -[731.82 --> 735.58] Why should I give up -[735.58 --> 740.28] when your hands are full of love -[740.28 --> 747.00] In this world we'll have trouble -[747.00 --> 755.06] but you have overcome the world -[755.06 --> 764.60] You shine brighter than the brightest star -[764.60 --> 772.66] Your love pure than the purest star -[772.66 --> 776.42] You shine -[776.42 --> 782.18] filling us with courage and strength -[782.18 --> 785.94] To follow you -[785.94 --> 796.02] Why should I fear men -[796.02 --> 799.78] You gain the heavens -[799.78 --> 804.06] Why should I be afraid -[804.06 --> 808.14] If you put the stars in place -[808.14 --> 812.16] Why should I lose heart -[812.16 --> 815.92] And you know how great you are -[815.92 --> 819.62] Why should I give up -[819.62 --> 821.62] When you plan to fall in place -[821.62 --> 826.08] When you plan to fall in place -[826.08 --> 833.08] In this world we'll have trouble -[833.08 --> 835.08] You have overcome the world -[835.08 --> 840.08] You have overcome the world -[840.08 --> 842.08] You shine brighter than the brightest star -[842.08 --> 855.96] You shine brighter than the brightest star -[855.96 --> 862.34] Your love pure than the brightest star -[862.34 --> 867.42] You shine brighter than the purest star -[867.42 --> 869.72] You shine -[869.72 --> 879.72] Filling us with courage and strength to follow you. -[881.24 --> 886.82] Shine brighter than the brightest star. -[887.42 --> 894.98] Your love, purer than the purest heart. -[894.98 --> 898.40] You shine. -[899.52 --> 907.70] Filling us with courage and strength to follow you. -[924.98 --> 954.96] guitar solo -[954.96 --> 957.54] With a melody -[957.54 --> 964.78] You surround me with a song -[964.78 --> 969.18] Of deliverance -[969.18 --> 972.38] From my enemies -[972.38 --> 978.20] Till all my fear has gone -[978.20 --> 984.96] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[984.96 --> 991.96] I am a child of God -[991.96 --> 999.28] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[999.28 --> 1006.54] I am a child of God -[1006.54 --> 1022.36] From my mother's womb -[1022.36 --> 1026.12] You have chosen me -[1026.12 --> 1031.86] Love has called my name -[1031.86 --> 1036.24] I've been born again -[1036.24 --> 1038.88] To your family -[1038.88 --> 1045.18] Blood passed through my veins -[1045.18 --> 1051.76] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1051.76 --> 1058.44] I am a child of God -[1058.44 --> 1065.44] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1065.44 --> 1072.26] I am a child of God -[1072.26 --> 1078.96] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1078.96 --> 1083.28] I am a child of God -[1083.28 --> 1088.86] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1091.54 --> 1095.86] I am a child of God -[1095.86 --> 1099.16] I am a child of God. -[1111.16 --> 1118.06] You swept the sea so I could walk right through it. -[1118.58 --> 1122.00] My fears were drowned in perfect love. -[1122.00 --> 1130.00] You rescued me so I could stand and say, -[1131.00 --> 1136.00] I am a child of God. -[1138.00 --> 1144.00] You swept the sea so I could walk right through it. -[1145.00 --> 1148.00] My fears were drowned in perfect love. -[1148.00 --> 1156.00] You rescued me so I could stand and say, -[1156.00 --> 1162.00] I am a child of God. -[1164.00 --> 1168.00] I'm no longer a slave to fear. -[1168.00 --> 1176.00] I am a child of God. -[1176.00 --> 1183.00] I'm no longer a slave to fear. -[1185.00 --> 1191.00] I am a child of God. -[1191.00 --> 1193.00] Let me see it. -[1200.00 --> 1205.00] I was reading in Ephesians and I came across Ephesians 2 verse 10. -[1205.00 --> 1209.00] It kind of reminded me a bit of what Pastor Chris was talking about. -[1209.00 --> 1213.00] If I'm wrong, you can tell me later, okay? -[1213.00 --> 1214.00] Not now. -[1215.00 --> 1217.00] Anyway, the verse says, -[1217.00 --> 1221.00] For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, -[1221.00 --> 1224.00] which God has prepared us in advance to do. -[1224.00 --> 1227.00] And I know, I think it was a couple weeks ago, -[1227.00 --> 1231.00] Pastor Chris was kind of challenging us to get out of our comfort zone -[1231.00 --> 1235.00] and to trust God to work in our lives -[1236.00 --> 1240.00] and to give us direction in ministry and in life. -[1241.00 --> 1247.00] And it sounded a lot like what I thought Paul was saying, -[1247.00 --> 1252.00] that God has prepared good works for us to do in Christ. -[1252.00 --> 1255.00] And it all sounds pretty good to me -[1256.00 --> 1260.00] until I look at stepping out of my really comfortable life, -[1260.00 --> 1262.00] like the comforts that we have, -[1263.00 --> 1267.00] the less risk I have, the happier I feel sometimes. -[1268.00 --> 1270.00] And so it may be questioned, -[1271.00 --> 1274.00] do I trust God enough to risk stepping out -[1274.00 --> 1278.00] and exploring what God has in mind for me and for us? -[1279.00 --> 1283.00] Because it is just so easy to stay in the boat. -[1286.00 --> 1287.00] Let's pray. -[1288.00 --> 1291.00] Father God, we do want to be pleasing to you. -[1292.00 --> 1296.00] Forgive us for staying so long in our own comfortable places -[1297.00 --> 1299.00] and for not trusting your Holy Spirit to lead us -[1300.00 --> 1302.00] into what you have in store for us in Christ. -[1302.00 --> 1306.00] Father God, as we step out, guide us with your Spirit. -[1307.00 --> 1311.00] Help us as your family to reach out to this broken world in your love. -[1312.00 --> 1315.00] May our lives be a sacrifice of praise to you, Lord. -[1316.00 --> 1317.00] Amen. -[1319.00 --> 1321.00] Why don't we rise and join in a couple more songs? -[1321.00 --> 1324.14] Lord God, we last -[1326.00 --> 1327.08] . . . . . . equally -[1328.00 --> 1329.94] . . . . the nice creation with a Kaufman. -[1330.00 --> 1334.00] Father God on Jesus, we will stand and remember as a precious family. -[1335.00 --> 1337.00] Heaven and a mansion with a heart is. -[1337.00 --> 1338.00] Father God would likes to לח and 가' ex-Aков… -[1338.00 --> 1342.00] Aahär구 -[1342.00 --> 1357.72] Lord, I want to be a sacrifice -[1357.72 --> 1364.94] Lord, I want to be pleasing to you -[1364.94 --> 1371.80] Lord, I want your love to rule my life -[1371.80 --> 1378.42] And be the one that you shine through -[1378.42 --> 1384.86] Jesus, I give you all -[1384.86 --> 1392.60] Every part of me cries out your name -[1392.60 --> 1397.76] Jesus, I give you all -[1397.76 --> 1402.38] Living and holy -[1402.38 --> 1405.78] Living and holy -[1405.78 --> 1410.38] Living and holy for you -[1410.38 --> 1418.38] Lord, I want to be a sacrifice -[1418.38 --> 1425.00] Lord, I want to be pleasing to you -[1425.00 --> 1433.00] Lord, I want your love to rule my life -[1433.00 --> 1439.00] And be the one that you shine through -[1439.00 --> 1445.62] Jesus, I give you all -[1445.62 --> 1453.62] Every part of me cries out your name -[1453.62 --> 1458.62] Jesus, I give you all -[1458.62 --> 1463.24] Living and holy -[1463.24 --> 1465.24] Living and holy -[1465.24 --> 1466.64] Living and holy -[1466.64 --> 1471.24] Living and holy for you -[1471.24 --> 1478.24] Jesus, I give you all -[1478.24 --> 1482.86] Every part of me -[1482.86 --> 1486.86] Every part of me cries out your name -[1486.86 --> 1492.86] Jesus, I give you all -[1492.86 --> 1497.48] Living and holy -[1497.48 --> 1499.48] Living and holy -[1499.48 --> 1500.88] Living and holy -[1500.88 --> 1507.48] Living and holy for you -[1507.48 --> 1513.50] Living and holy -[1513.50 --> 1516.10] Lord, I want to be pleasing to you -[1516.10 --> 1518.42] Lord, I want to be pleasing to you -[1518.42 --> 1520.42] Amen. -[1548.42 --> 1552.42] I find my rest -[1553.10 --> 1555.42] Without you -[1556.04 --> 1558.42] I fall apart -[1559.84 --> 1562.42] You're the one -[1562.42 --> 1566.42] That guides my heart -[1567.84 --> 1573.42] Lord, I need you -[1573.42 --> 1577.42] Oh, I need you -[1577.42 --> 1581.42] Every hour -[1582.28 --> 1584.42] I need you -[1585.24 --> 1587.42] My one defense -[1588.70 --> 1591.42] My righteousness -[1591.96 --> 1597.42] Oh, God, how I need you -[1597.42 --> 1604.42] When the sin runs deep -[1604.42 --> 1608.42] Your grace is born -[1608.42 --> 1611.42] Where grace is found -[1611.42 --> 1615.42] Is where you are -[1615.42 --> 1618.42] And where you are -[1618.42 --> 1622.42] Lord, I am free -[1622.42 --> 1629.42] Holiness is Christ in me -[1629.42 --> 1633.42] And where you are -[1633.42 --> 1637.42] Lord, I am free -[1637.42 --> 1644.42] Holiness is Christ in me -[1644.42 --> 1650.42] Lord, I need you -[1650.42 --> 1654.42] Oh, I need you -[1654.42 --> 1655.42] Oh, I need you -[1655.42 --> 1658.42] Every hour -[1658.42 --> 1662.42] Oh, I need you -[1662.42 --> 1665.42] My one defense -[1665.42 --> 1666.42] My righteousness -[1666.42 --> 1667.42] My righteousness -[1667.42 --> 1668.42] My righteousness -[1668.42 --> 1672.42] Oh, God, how I need you -[1672.42 --> 1673.42] I need you -[1673.42 --> 1674.42] I need you -[1674.42 --> 1678.42] So teach my song -[1678.42 --> 1679.42] I need you -[1679.42 --> 1680.42] I need you -[1680.42 --> 1681.42] I need you -[1681.42 --> 1682.42] I need you -[1682.42 --> 1683.42] To long to rise -[1683.42 --> 1684.42] To you -[1684.42 --> 1685.42] When temptation -[1685.42 --> 1686.42] I need you -[1686.42 --> 1687.42] I need you -[1687.42 --> 1688.42] I need you -[1688.42 --> 1689.42] When you are -[1689.42 --> 1690.42] Lord, I need you -[1690.42 --> 1691.42] I need you -[1691.42 --> 1692.42] I need you -[1692.42 --> 1693.42] I need you -[1693.42 --> 1697.42] Jesus, you're my home -[1697.42 --> 1698.42] Jesus, you're my home -[1698.42 --> 1700.42] And stay -[1700.42 --> 1703.42] And when I cannot stand -[1703.42 --> 1704.42] I'll follow you -[1704.42 --> 1706.42] Jesus, you're my home -[1706.42 --> 1708.42] And stay -[1708.42 --> 1710.42] Jesus, you're my home -[1710.42 --> 1712.42] And stay -[1712.42 --> 1717.42] Lord, I need you -[1717.42 --> 1719.42] Lord, I need you -[1719.42 --> 1723.42] Oh, I need you -[1723.42 --> 1727.42] Every hour -[1727.42 --> 1730.42] I need you -[1730.42 --> 1733.42] My one defense -[1733.42 --> 1737.42] My righteousness -[1737.42 --> 1741.42] Oh, God, how I need you -[1741.42 --> 1762.42] Jesus, you're my one -[1762.42 --> 1776.42] yes my righteousness oh god how i need you -[1792.42 --> 1797.62] we continue this morning's worship together with the giving of our tithes and offerings -[1797.62 --> 1801.78] this morning's offerings are first for our church's budget and second for the refugee -[1801.78 --> 1810.34] chaplain dina nikolai in her position as chaplain and refugee support mobilizer and as she seeks -[1810.34 --> 1815.86] as a commissioned pastor in the christian reform church dina seeks to offer a ministry of presence -[1815.86 --> 1821.86] for refugees new to canada and provides a bridge between churches in british columbia and newcomers -[1822.66 --> 1828.42] prior to moving to vancouver dina lived for several years in the middle east based in cairo egypt -[1828.42 --> 1834.50] where her work including and facilitating numerous interfaith and intercultural dialogue events -[1834.50 --> 1839.46] between north american university students and people from various countries across the middle east -[1840.02 --> 1846.34] her time in cairo also involved volunteer work with the various organizations serving refugees in egypt -[1846.34 --> 1854.42] from galatians 5 14 for the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command love your neighbor as -[1854.42 --> 1868.42] yourself next week's offering is a budget offering only please give generously -[1868.42 --> 1876.98] oni -[1876.98 --> 1895.78] I will author up my life -[1895.78 --> 1898.66] In spirit and truth -[1898.66 --> 1901.78] Pouring out the oil of love -[1902.44 --> 1905.20] As my worship to you -[1905.20 --> 1909.04] In surrender I must give -[1909.04 --> 1911.94] My every part -[1911.94 --> 1915.38] Lord receive the sacrifice -[1915.38 --> 1918.52] Of a broken heart -[1918.52 --> 1921.94] Jesus what can I give -[1921.94 --> 1925.14] What can I bring -[1925.14 --> 1928.42] To so faithful a friend -[1928.42 --> 1931.58] To so loving a king -[1931.58 --> 1935.12] Savior what can be said -[1935.12 --> 1938.32] What can be sung -[1938.32 --> 1941.58] As the praise of your name -[1941.58 --> 1944.76] For the things you have done -[1944.76 --> 1948.64] Though my words could not sound -[1948.64 --> 1952.38] Not even in front -[1952.38 --> 1958.64] Of the death of love that is o'er -[1958.64 --> 1961.64] By this thankful heart -[1961.64 --> 1971.82] You deserve my every breath -[1971.82 --> 1975.14] For you paid the great cost -[1975.14 --> 1978.44] Giving up your life to death -[1978.44 --> 1981.80] Even death on a cross -[1981.80 --> 1985.18] You took all my shame away -[1985.18 --> 1988.32] There defeating my sin -[1988.32 --> 1991.78] Opened up the gates of heaven -[1991.78 --> 1995.06] And helped me in the end -[1995.06 --> 1998.38] Jesus what could I give -[1998.38 --> 2001.56] What can I bring -[2001.56 --> 2004.98] To so faithful a friend -[2004.98 --> 2008.04] To so loving a king -[2008.04 --> 2011.72] Savior what can be said -[2011.72 --> 2014.84] What can be sung -[2014.84 --> 2018.34] As the praise of your name -[2018.34 --> 2021.52] For the things you have done -[2021.52 --> 2025.06] Oh my words could not sound -[2025.06 --> 2028.26] Not even in front -[2028.26 --> 2035.26] Of the dead of love that is o'er -[2035.26 --> 2042.06] Of the dead of love that is o'er -[2042.06 --> 2048.76] Of the dead of love that is o'er -[2048.76 --> 2052.06] By this thankful heart -[2052.06 --> 2070.32] I want to take a moment -[2070.32 --> 2073.52] and invite all the kids up to the front -[2073.52 --> 2076.60] in particular those preschool -[2076.60 --> 2078.30] Three to five year olds -[2078.30 --> 2080.16] Who will be able to head out -[2080.16 --> 2080.70] To a class -[2080.70 --> 2082.22] But otherwise you can also -[2082.22 --> 2083.66] Come up to the front this morning -[2083.66 --> 2085.88] And receive a blessing -[2085.88 --> 2086.90] As we gather -[2086.90 --> 2090.72] Did want to just point out -[2090.72 --> 2093.10] For those older kids -[2093.10 --> 2094.36] Who are staying here -[2094.36 --> 2095.68] On the back table -[2095.68 --> 2097.14] The children's worship time table -[2097.14 --> 2099.68] There's this little two pages -[2099.68 --> 2101.40] That has four activities -[2101.40 --> 2102.34] For you to do -[2102.34 --> 2104.30] During our worship together -[2104.30 --> 2105.48] If you're interested in that -[2105.48 --> 2106.78] So there's a coloring page -[2106.78 --> 2108.14] And a word search -[2108.14 --> 2108.88] And the like -[2108.88 --> 2110.14] And that is all about -[2110.14 --> 2112.10] The text that we're going to talk about -[2112.10 --> 2113.04] So we'll have that -[2113.04 --> 2114.54] For the rest of the summer as well -[2114.54 --> 2116.56] For the rest of the summer -[2116.56 --> 2117.64] There will be clipboards -[2117.64 --> 2119.12] And crayons that go with it -[2119.12 --> 2120.86] Amazon wasn't quick enough -[2120.86 --> 2122.90] We don't have that this week -[2122.90 --> 2124.30] But you can figure it out -[2124.30 --> 2125.24] For this week -[2125.24 --> 2125.66] Okay -[2125.66 --> 2126.94] So you can talk to your parents -[2126.94 --> 2128.32] About maybe getting this -[2128.32 --> 2129.44] At the back table there -[2129.44 --> 2131.16] Okay we're going to do the blessing -[2131.16 --> 2131.50] Okay -[2131.50 --> 2132.34] So the way that works -[2132.34 --> 2133.64] Is we're going to hold our hands up -[2133.64 --> 2134.52] And then we're going to say -[2134.52 --> 2135.88] Really loud for everyone to hear -[2135.88 --> 2137.24] The Lord be with you -[2137.24 --> 2138.60] And then they're all going to say -[2138.60 --> 2139.92] Really loud for you to hear -[2139.92 --> 2141.18] And also with you -[2141.18 --> 2142.22] Everyone else -[2142.22 --> 2143.22] I'm going to invite you to stand -[2143.22 --> 2146.50] And then once we do this -[2146.50 --> 2148.28] Kids three to five -[2148.28 --> 2149.54] With your parents permission -[2149.54 --> 2150.46] You may head to -[2150.46 --> 2151.54] Children's worship time -[2151.54 --> 2152.18] The rest of you -[2152.18 --> 2153.56] Can go wherever it is -[2153.56 --> 2153.96] You're going -[2153.96 --> 2154.98] Ready -[2154.98 --> 2157.88] The Lord be with you -[2157.88 --> 2160.38] And also with you -[2160.38 --> 2161.38] Amen -[2161.38 --> 2161.92] On your way -[2161.92 --> 2162.48] Thank you -[2162.48 --> 2181.22] Last week -[2181.22 --> 2182.94] In our worship together -[2182.94 --> 2184.92] We had the opportunity -[2184.92 --> 2187.36] To affirm some names -[2187.36 --> 2190.22] For members of council -[2190.22 --> 2191.38] To serve as elders -[2191.38 --> 2192.60] And deacons -[2192.60 --> 2193.80] Last week -[2193.80 --> 2195.46] We affirmed three names -[2195.46 --> 2196.14] To the office -[2196.14 --> 2197.90] Of pastoral elder -[2197.90 --> 2198.94] And Lord willing -[2198.94 --> 2200.42] Next week -[2200.42 --> 2201.08] Or sometime -[2201.08 --> 2202.22] In the weeks to come -[2202.22 --> 2202.94] If you've got an email -[2202.94 --> 2203.34] From me -[2203.34 --> 2203.94] Please reply -[2203.94 --> 2204.98] So I know your availability -[2204.98 --> 2206.98] We will install -[2206.98 --> 2208.08] Seth Baker -[2208.08 --> 2209.44] Dick Klein-Geltink -[2209.44 --> 2210.40] And John Skipper -[2210.40 --> 2211.34] To that office -[2211.34 --> 2212.40] We are grateful -[2212.40 --> 2213.20] As a church -[2213.20 --> 2215.58] For those who had served -[2215.58 --> 2216.10] Previously -[2216.10 --> 2216.68] And who are now -[2216.68 --> 2217.74] Completing their terms -[2217.74 --> 2218.54] And so we thank -[2218.54 --> 2219.42] John Fulkerts -[2219.42 --> 2220.26] And Ken Stamm -[2220.26 --> 2222.16] And the earlier work -[2222.16 --> 2223.16] Of Peter Rolleman -[2223.16 --> 2224.98] At our meeting -[2224.98 --> 2225.52] Last week -[2225.52 --> 2226.06] Also -[2226.06 --> 2227.48] We affirmed -[2227.48 --> 2228.48] Four names -[2228.48 --> 2229.24] For the office -[2229.24 --> 2229.82] Of deacon -[2229.82 --> 2231.38] And we need -[2231.38 --> 2232.46] Two positions -[2232.46 --> 2233.06] Filled -[2233.06 --> 2233.92] And so we affirmed -[2233.92 --> 2234.82] Brenda Alkema -[2234.82 --> 2236.12] Jeremy Grimm -[2236.12 --> 2236.86] Rich Spoor -[2236.86 --> 2237.94] And Yap Wollschlager -[2237.94 --> 2239.52] We are grateful -[2239.52 --> 2241.06] For the completed terms -[2241.06 --> 2242.28] And the service -[2242.28 --> 2243.56] Provided by Dave -[2243.56 --> 2244.18] Hubert's -[2244.18 --> 2244.98] And the earlier work -[2244.98 --> 2245.86] Of Mary Van Veen -[2245.86 --> 2247.04] And so we are now -[2247.04 --> 2247.54] Going to draw -[2247.54 --> 2248.44] Two lots -[2248.44 --> 2249.56] For the office -[2249.56 --> 2250.16] Of deacon -[2250.16 --> 2250.80] So I am going to -[2250.80 --> 2251.54] Invite Glenn -[2251.54 --> 2252.68] On behalf -[2252.68 --> 2253.44] Of council -[2253.44 --> 2254.16] To come up -[2254.16 --> 2259.42] Glenn -[2259.42 --> 2260.06] In this -[2260.06 --> 2261.30] Lovely -[2261.30 --> 2261.94] Box -[2261.94 --> 2262.28] Here -[2262.28 --> 2263.26] Are the four names -[2263.26 --> 2264.10] Please draw two -[2264.10 --> 2265.14] And then as you -[2265.14 --> 2265.66] Read them -[2265.66 --> 2266.62] Into the microphone -[2266.62 --> 2273.80] Brenda Alkema -[2273.80 --> 2277.16] And Yap Wollschlager -[2277.16 --> 2278.72] Amen -[2278.72 --> 2279.82] Thank you very much -[2279.82 --> 2280.68] Brenda and Yap -[2280.68 --> 2281.30] Thank you -[2281.30 --> 2282.58] For your willingness -[2282.58 --> 2283.54] To serve -[2283.54 --> 2284.28] Oh someone wants -[2284.28 --> 2284.82] To applaud -[2284.82 --> 2286.02] I appreciate that -[2286.02 --> 2287.84] There you go -[2287.84 --> 2293.54] As well -[2293.54 --> 2294.72] Jeremy and Rich -[2294.72 --> 2295.28] Thank you -[2295.28 --> 2296.16] For your willingness -[2296.16 --> 2297.24] To let your name -[2297.24 --> 2297.66] Stand -[2297.66 --> 2298.96] And to discern -[2298.96 --> 2300.18] In this process -[2300.18 --> 2300.52] Together -[2300.52 --> 2301.88] As mentioned -[2301.88 --> 2302.80] Lord willing -[2302.80 --> 2303.46] Next week -[2303.46 --> 2304.06] Or in the weeks -[2304.06 --> 2304.52] To come -[2304.52 --> 2305.56] We will install -[2305.56 --> 2307.04] All of these officers -[2307.04 --> 2307.36] Now -[2307.36 --> 2308.22] The three elders -[2308.22 --> 2309.80] And the two deacons -[2309.80 --> 2310.96] Into their terms -[2310.96 --> 2311.86] Of service -[2311.86 --> 2312.44] In the life -[2312.44 --> 2313.16] And ministry -[2313.16 --> 2314.54] Of this church -[2314.54 --> 2316.00] May God be -[2316.00 --> 2317.12] Glorified -[2317.12 --> 2317.84] And his kingdom -[2317.84 --> 2318.42] Revealed -[2318.42 --> 2319.60] In our shared -[2319.60 --> 2320.16] Work -[2320.16 --> 2321.26] Together -[2321.26 --> 2323.06] Sarah -[2323.06 --> 2323.72] I am going to -[2323.72 --> 2324.36] Invite you up -[2324.36 --> 2324.96] To the front -[2324.96 --> 2326.28] To lead us -[2326.28 --> 2326.58] In prayer -[2326.58 --> 2326.92] Excellent -[2326.92 --> 2327.34] Thank you -[2327.34 --> 2346.60] Hello my name -[2346.60 --> 2347.08] Sarah -[2347.08 --> 2347.96] And I am -[2347.96 --> 2348.86] Going to lead us -[2348.86 --> 2349.90] In the congregational -[2349.90 --> 2350.26] Prayer -[2350.26 --> 2364.04] Dear God -[2364.04 --> 2366.92] Creator of heaven -[2366.92 --> 2367.58] And earth -[2367.58 --> 2369.40] You place the stars -[2369.40 --> 2370.90] Where they are -[2370.90 --> 2372.04] And you number them -[2372.04 --> 2372.94] You know them -[2372.94 --> 2374.90] And you know us -[2374.90 --> 2376.72] You know the vastness -[2376.72 --> 2377.42] Of the universe -[2377.42 --> 2379.14] You created every part -[2379.14 --> 2380.82] And yet -[2380.82 --> 2381.74] You know us -[2381.74 --> 2382.48] And you want -[2382.48 --> 2383.46] To know us -[2383.46 --> 2384.88] Your power -[2384.88 --> 2385.92] Is terrifying -[2385.92 --> 2386.98] Your majesty -[2386.98 --> 2387.96] Nothing short -[2387.96 --> 2389.04] Of worthy -[2389.04 --> 2389.96] To be praised -[2389.96 --> 2391.78] And yet -[2391.78 --> 2392.62] You know us -[2392.62 --> 2393.86] And you want -[2393.86 --> 2394.66] To know us -[2394.66 --> 2396.34] You want a relationship -[2396.34 --> 2397.66] With each member -[2397.66 --> 2398.06] Here -[2398.06 --> 2399.24] Each member -[2399.24 --> 2399.90] Of the body -[2399.90 --> 2400.56] Of Christ -[2400.56 --> 2402.94] You see us -[2402.94 --> 2405.12] And you put us -[2405.12 --> 2406.10] In a community -[2406.10 --> 2408.26] You draw us -[2408.26 --> 2409.32] Into a community -[2409.32 --> 2411.66] To feel your love -[2411.66 --> 2413.06] And share your love -[2413.06 --> 2418.82] We thank you -[2418.82 --> 2419.44] For this love -[2419.44 --> 2420.14] That we feel -[2420.14 --> 2422.22] That we share -[2422.22 --> 2426.88] And we thank you -[2426.88 --> 2427.52] For the ways -[2427.52 --> 2428.32] That we show love -[2428.32 --> 2428.96] To each other -[2428.96 --> 2431.08] And as we come here -[2431.08 --> 2433.18] To learn from your word -[2433.18 --> 2434.60] And to come in worship -[2434.60 --> 2436.32] And to praise you -[2436.32 --> 2438.52] We also come in service -[2438.52 --> 2440.88] In service to each other -[2440.88 --> 2442.46] And God -[2442.46 --> 2443.10] We thank you -[2443.10 --> 2443.92] For the process -[2443.92 --> 2445.26] Of drawing of lots -[2445.26 --> 2446.40] For the position -[2446.40 --> 2447.12] Of deacon -[2447.12 --> 2449.86] And we trust -[2449.86 --> 2450.74] That your hand -[2450.74 --> 2451.66] Was in this process -[2451.66 --> 2453.32] And we thank you -[2453.32 --> 2454.44] For Brenda Alkema -[2454.44 --> 2456.48] And Yap Walschlager -[2456.48 --> 2457.76] Who are coming -[2457.76 --> 2458.92] Into these positions -[2458.92 --> 2459.92] We pray that -[2459.92 --> 2462.14] You would walk -[2462.14 --> 2462.66] With them -[2462.66 --> 2463.72] Into this position -[2463.72 --> 2464.56] As they -[2464.56 --> 2466.50] Come into leadership -[2466.50 --> 2467.38] In the church -[2467.38 --> 2469.26] God we also -[2469.26 --> 2469.72] Thank you -[2469.72 --> 2470.22] For those -[2470.22 --> 2471.00] Who let their names -[2471.00 --> 2471.50] Stand -[2471.50 --> 2473.66] Who were not chosen -[2473.66 --> 2474.46] Jeremy Grimm -[2474.46 --> 2475.44] And Rich Spore -[2475.44 --> 2477.12] We thank you -[2477.12 --> 2478.42] That they let -[2478.42 --> 2479.28] Their names stand -[2479.28 --> 2480.60] And we trust -[2480.60 --> 2481.36] That you will -[2481.36 --> 2483.54] Fill their longing -[2483.54 --> 2484.30] For service -[2484.30 --> 2485.20] In another way -[2485.20 --> 2485.88] Through the gifts -[2485.88 --> 2486.92] That you have given them -[2486.92 --> 2491.20] God we pray -[2491.20 --> 2491.88] For the leadership -[2491.88 --> 2492.84] Of this church -[2492.84 --> 2494.44] We pray -[2494.44 --> 2494.92] That you would -[2494.92 --> 2495.60] Guide them -[2495.60 --> 2497.04] As examples -[2497.04 --> 2498.14] For each of us -[2498.14 --> 2501.52] God we thank you -[2501.52 --> 2502.14] For the ways -[2502.14 --> 2503.90] That they lead us -[2503.90 --> 2504.46] And they walk -[2504.46 --> 2505.62] Alongside us -[2505.62 --> 2506.20] In life -[2506.20 --> 2507.52] And they make -[2507.52 --> 2508.36] Hard decisions -[2508.36 --> 2510.88] And gather together -[2510.88 --> 2511.88] To consider -[2511.88 --> 2513.78] The vision -[2513.78 --> 2514.48] And mission -[2514.48 --> 2515.48] Of this church -[2515.48 --> 2521.02] God -[2521.02 --> 2523.04] We thank you -[2523.04 --> 2523.80] For this family -[2523.80 --> 2524.40] Of believers -[2524.40 --> 2526.44] To walk -[2526.44 --> 2527.02] Through life -[2527.02 --> 2527.38] With -[2527.38 --> 2529.98] In this life -[2529.98 --> 2530.72] We experience -[2530.72 --> 2531.28] Pain -[2531.28 --> 2532.00] Loss -[2532.00 --> 2532.78] And suffering -[2532.78 --> 2534.26] And you bring -[2534.26 --> 2534.78] Us together -[2534.78 --> 2535.44] As brothers -[2535.44 --> 2536.46] And sisters -[2536.46 --> 2537.62] To experience -[2537.62 --> 2538.64] This discomfort -[2538.64 --> 2540.90] The groanings -[2540.90 --> 2541.76] And the tears -[2541.76 --> 2543.06] We experience -[2543.06 --> 2544.18] Them with one another -[2544.18 --> 2546.18] Carrying each -[2546.18 --> 2546.90] Other's burdens -[2546.90 --> 2547.40] Together -[2547.40 --> 2549.66] We are not alone -[2549.66 --> 2551.82] We are not alone -[2551.82 --> 2552.66] Even when we -[2552.66 --> 2553.62] Are alone -[2553.62 --> 2555.10] On our own -[2555.10 --> 2557.02] Because we have you -[2557.02 --> 2558.16] But you put us -[2558.16 --> 2559.32] In this community -[2559.32 --> 2560.84] To be held -[2560.84 --> 2561.58] By one another -[2561.58 --> 2564.80] Even when we -[2564.80 --> 2565.40] Can't reason -[2565.40 --> 2566.22] With our reality -[2566.22 --> 2567.04] We can turn -[2567.04 --> 2567.96] And find the loving -[2567.96 --> 2569.04] Arms of a friend -[2569.04 --> 2570.14] To weep with us -[2570.14 --> 2571.80] And speak of your love -[2571.80 --> 2572.78] Into our lives -[2572.78 --> 2577.18] God we turn -[2577.18 --> 2577.60] To the -[2577.60 --> 2578.96] People in our -[2578.96 --> 2579.34] Community -[2579.34 --> 2580.34] Who are -[2580.34 --> 2581.60] Experiencing pain -[2581.60 --> 2582.90] God we pray -[2582.90 --> 2583.78] For Harry Bauman -[2583.78 --> 2584.82] Following the work -[2584.82 --> 2585.36] Accident -[2585.36 --> 2586.02] That resulted -[2586.02 --> 2587.40] In two broken arms -[2587.40 --> 2588.84] We thank you -[2588.84 --> 2589.10] For the -[2589.10 --> 2590.82] Riza Boss family -[2590.82 --> 2591.86] As they continue -[2591.86 --> 2592.88] To walk the road -[2592.88 --> 2593.34] Of mourning -[2593.34 --> 2594.26] The loss of Louise -[2594.26 --> 2597.88] She was a dear -[2597.88 --> 2598.90] Person to so many -[2598.90 --> 2599.32] People -[2599.32 --> 2600.48] And we could see -[2600.48 --> 2601.28] That by the -[2601.28 --> 2602.46] People who came -[2602.46 --> 2604.20] To her -[2604.20 --> 2605.96] Her -[2605.96 --> 2608.52] Celebration of life -[2608.52 --> 2608.88] God -[2608.88 --> 2611.36] We pray that you -[2611.36 --> 2612.14] Would be with those -[2612.14 --> 2614.00] Who feel that loss -[2614.00 --> 2615.32] In their life -[2615.32 --> 2616.16] And pray that we -[2616.16 --> 2617.06] Would continue to be -[2617.06 --> 2618.00] A community to wrap -[2618.00 --> 2619.10] Our arms around them -[2619.10 --> 2622.86] God we also pray -[2622.86 --> 2623.88] For Carolyn Nort -[2623.88 --> 2625.02] And family -[2625.02 --> 2626.50] In the loss of her dad -[2626.50 --> 2629.52] We pray for our -[2629.52 --> 2630.54] Extended family -[2630.54 --> 2631.16] Of believers -[2631.16 --> 2632.12] In the church -[2632.12 --> 2634.02] Where he was -[2634.02 --> 2635.54] And where he served -[2635.54 --> 2636.94] And I pray that -[2636.94 --> 2639.18] In this experience -[2639.18 --> 2640.02] Of loss -[2640.02 --> 2641.54] And this emptiness -[2641.54 --> 2643.82] Of where a person -[2643.82 --> 2646.20] Where Carolyn's dad -[2646.20 --> 2646.94] Used to be -[2646.94 --> 2647.40] That they -[2647.40 --> 2648.36] They would feel -[2648.36 --> 2648.92] The comfort -[2648.92 --> 2649.58] Of the body -[2649.58 --> 2650.14] Of believers -[2650.14 --> 2654.06] God we also pray -[2654.06 --> 2654.98] For Leslie Kuhl -[2654.98 --> 2656.80] And her family -[2656.80 --> 2657.32] And the loss -[2657.32 --> 2657.92] Of her dad -[2657.92 --> 2660.54] God we pray that -[2660.54 --> 2661.96] They would continue -[2661.96 --> 2662.74] To experience -[2662.74 --> 2663.50] Your comfort -[2663.50 --> 2664.40] And love -[2664.40 --> 2671.88] God we also pray -[2671.88 --> 2673.96] For Ellen -[2673.96 --> 2676.02] Who fell in the -[2676.02 --> 2676.90] Shower this morning -[2676.90 --> 2679.96] We pray that -[2679.96 --> 2681.60] You would be with her -[2681.60 --> 2683.48] As she feels pain -[2683.48 --> 2685.12] In her hip -[2685.12 --> 2686.38] God I pray that -[2686.38 --> 2690.54] The doctors at the hospital -[2690.54 --> 2691.56] Would be able to -[2691.56 --> 2693.54] Figure out what's going on -[2693.54 --> 2695.62] And that they would be able -[2695.62 --> 2700.14] To start the healing process -[2700.14 --> 2700.92] For her -[2700.92 --> 2705.92] God -[2705.92 --> 2708.14] Even as we talk -[2708.14 --> 2708.92] About the current -[2708.92 --> 2709.74] Going ons -[2709.74 --> 2710.54] Of our church -[2710.54 --> 2712.28] And the current -[2712.28 --> 2713.34] Pain that is being -[2713.34 --> 2714.02] Experienced -[2714.02 --> 2714.92] We know that -[2714.92 --> 2717.14] There is still pain -[2717.14 --> 2718.44] From long ago -[2718.44 --> 2723.12] For those who mourn -[2723.12 --> 2724.28] The loss of loved ones -[2724.28 --> 2724.82] From one -[2724.82 --> 2725.12] Two -[2725.12 --> 2725.46] Three -[2725.46 --> 2726.42] Ten years -[2726.42 --> 2728.42] Life keeps moving -[2728.42 --> 2729.78] But pain remains -[2729.78 --> 2730.54] So real -[2730.54 --> 2732.88] Lord I pray that -[2732.88 --> 2733.70] We would be a church -[2733.70 --> 2734.22] Community -[2734.22 --> 2736.30] That would step up -[2736.30 --> 2737.48] And comfort -[2737.48 --> 2738.02] Those -[2738.02 --> 2739.58] Those who are -[2739.58 --> 2740.62] Feeling this loss -[2740.62 --> 2741.96] In times -[2741.96 --> 2743.14] When the anniversaries -[2743.14 --> 2743.68] Come up -[2743.68 --> 2744.12] God -[2744.12 --> 2745.60] That we would -[2745.60 --> 2746.44] Continue to walk -[2746.44 --> 2747.28] Alongside them -[2747.28 --> 2751.26] God I pray that -[2751.26 --> 2752.50] We would be there -[2752.50 --> 2753.46] To comfort -[2753.46 --> 2754.22] And provide -[2754.22 --> 2755.20] For the widows -[2755.20 --> 2756.66] For the childless -[2756.66 --> 2758.10] For the single parents -[2758.10 --> 2759.06] Be a friend -[2759.06 --> 2759.78] To the lonely -[2759.78 --> 2760.86] And bring your love -[2760.86 --> 2761.90] To the broken places -[2761.90 --> 2763.08] In people's lives -[2763.08 --> 2766.84] I thank you -[2766.84 --> 2768.22] For this church family -[2768.22 --> 2769.92] The way we do -[2769.92 --> 2770.68] These qualities -[2770.68 --> 2771.76] Of community life -[2771.76 --> 2772.12] Well -[2772.12 --> 2773.48] These are the gifts -[2773.48 --> 2774.36] Of hospitality -[2774.36 --> 2775.26] And compassion -[2775.26 --> 2776.06] And more -[2776.06 --> 2777.22] That you give us -[2777.22 --> 2778.22] That you have -[2778.22 --> 2779.28] Equipped this body -[2779.28 --> 2779.80] Of believers -[2779.80 --> 2780.28] With -[2780.28 --> 2781.68] May we be willing -[2781.68 --> 2782.98] And ready -[2782.98 --> 2784.36] To answer the needs -[2784.36 --> 2785.34] Of our fellow brothers -[2785.34 --> 2786.06] And sisters -[2786.06 --> 2786.86] In Christ -[2786.86 --> 2793.80] God -[2793.80 --> 2795.02] We also pray -[2795.02 --> 2795.84] For those who -[2795.84 --> 2796.70] Are experiencing -[2796.70 --> 2797.66] Difficulties -[2797.66 --> 2799.26] In their strained -[2799.26 --> 2800.08] Relationships -[2800.08 --> 2800.46] God -[2800.46 --> 2804.80] May we be willing -[2804.80 --> 2805.62] To walk -[2805.62 --> 2806.92] Through the discomfort -[2806.92 --> 2807.78] With them -[2807.78 --> 2810.10] And continue -[2810.10 --> 2810.90] To pray -[2810.90 --> 2811.84] And love them -[2811.84 --> 2812.80] As they experience -[2812.80 --> 2814.18] These hard times -[2814.18 --> 2819.36] As brothers and sisters -[2819.36 --> 2820.38] We also share -[2820.38 --> 2821.12] In the joys -[2821.12 --> 2821.82] And the blessings -[2821.82 --> 2822.86] In our lives -[2822.86 --> 2823.60] We think -[2823.60 --> 2824.16] We think of the youth -[2824.16 --> 2824.92] As they spend -[2824.92 --> 2825.58] This weekend -[2825.58 --> 2826.92] Together enjoying -[2826.92 --> 2827.84] Their year-end -[2827.84 --> 2828.74] Camping trip -[2828.74 --> 2830.24] We pray -[2830.24 --> 2830.80] That this was -[2830.80 --> 2831.46] A time full -[2831.46 --> 2831.90] Of joy -[2831.90 --> 2832.66] And laughter -[2832.66 --> 2834.08] We thank you -[2834.08 --> 2834.94] For the good work -[2834.94 --> 2836.56] Of Pastor Kevin -[2836.56 --> 2837.52] And the youth leaders -[2837.52 --> 2838.40] In this ministry -[2838.40 --> 2839.24] And pray that -[2839.24 --> 2840.12] Amidst the fun -[2840.12 --> 2841.22] You would stir -[2841.22 --> 2841.80] The hearts -[2841.80 --> 2842.68] Of these youth -[2842.68 --> 2843.60] With a longing -[2843.60 --> 2844.80] To know you more -[2844.80 --> 2845.98] And equip their leaders -[2845.98 --> 2846.92] To guide them -[2846.92 --> 2847.64] Into a deeper -[2847.64 --> 2848.42] Relationship -[2848.42 --> 2848.92] With you -[2848.92 --> 2854.98] God as we -[2854.98 --> 2856.16] Celebrate -[2856.16 --> 2856.90] The joys -[2856.90 --> 2857.66] With each other -[2857.66 --> 2859.06] We also think -[2859.06 --> 2859.96] Ahead of -[2859.96 --> 2861.02] To next week -[2861.02 --> 2862.36] Where we celebrate -[2862.36 --> 2863.12] Lord's Supper -[2863.12 --> 2864.50] In remembrance -[2864.50 --> 2865.92] Of who you are -[2865.92 --> 2866.82] And what you have -[2866.82 --> 2867.22] Done -[2867.22 --> 2869.12] For us -[2869.12 --> 2870.90] Help us to walk -[2870.90 --> 2871.76] In this week -[2871.76 --> 2873.44] Thinking ahead -[2873.44 --> 2874.72] To that moment -[2874.72 --> 2875.46] Where we gather -[2875.46 --> 2876.36] Around the table -[2876.36 --> 2876.82] Together -[2876.82 --> 2878.64] As a community -[2878.64 --> 2879.50] In remembrance -[2879.50 --> 2883.82] God we also -[2883.82 --> 2884.44] Look outward -[2884.44 --> 2885.64] We look outward -[2885.64 --> 2886.44] To the world -[2886.44 --> 2887.26] To the pain -[2887.26 --> 2887.88] That the world -[2887.88 --> 2888.74] Is experiencing -[2888.74 --> 2893.56] There's so much -[2893.56 --> 2894.40] Going on -[2894.40 --> 2895.40] We turn on -[2895.40 --> 2896.04] Our phones -[2896.04 --> 2896.74] We turn on -[2896.74 --> 2897.34] Our TVs -[2897.34 --> 2898.08] And there -[2898.08 --> 2899.48] There's an endless -[2899.48 --> 2901.24] List of pain -[2901.24 --> 2903.08] And struggles -[2903.08 --> 2905.02] And war -[2905.02 --> 2906.02] To look at -[2906.02 --> 2907.42] And to be -[2907.42 --> 2908.10] Disheartened -[2908.10 --> 2908.80] By God -[2908.80 --> 2911.70] I pray -[2911.70 --> 2913.36] That we would -[2913.36 --> 2914.62] Come to you -[2914.62 --> 2915.76] In prayer -[2915.76 --> 2918.06] For these people -[2918.06 --> 2919.00] That are experiencing -[2919.00 --> 2919.90] These hardships -[2919.90 --> 2921.70] God we pray -[2921.70 --> 2922.28] For the war -[2922.28 --> 2922.92] In Ukraine -[2922.92 --> 2923.72] That continues -[2923.72 --> 2926.14] We can't imagine -[2926.14 --> 2928.24] Can't imagine -[2928.24 --> 2929.94] What it must -[2929.94 --> 2930.56] Be like -[2930.56 --> 2932.04] Many of us -[2932.04 --> 2932.84] Have never seen -[2932.84 --> 2933.22] War -[2933.22 --> 2934.30] We don't know -[2934.30 --> 2934.98] What that is -[2934.98 --> 2935.50] Like -[2935.50 --> 2936.34] We see movies -[2936.34 --> 2938.26] And we still -[2938.26 --> 2939.38] Cannot fathom -[2939.38 --> 2940.14] The pain -[2940.14 --> 2940.84] And the suffering -[2940.84 --> 2941.58] That they must -[2941.58 --> 2942.36] Be going through -[2942.36 --> 2944.10] So God -[2944.10 --> 2944.58] We pray -[2944.58 --> 2945.12] That you would -[2945.12 --> 2947.30] You would find -[2947.30 --> 2947.88] The path -[2947.88 --> 2948.38] Forward -[2948.38 --> 2949.96] For the pain -[2949.96 --> 2950.72] To stop -[2950.72 --> 2957.18] Thank you -[2957.18 --> 2957.80] For this time -[2957.80 --> 2958.34] To gather -[2958.34 --> 2958.92] Lord -[2958.92 --> 2960.48] That we can -[2960.48 --> 2961.14] Be together -[2961.14 --> 2962.38] And worship -[2962.38 --> 2962.76] You -[2962.76 --> 2963.40] And pray -[2963.40 --> 2964.20] For each other -[2964.20 --> 2964.76] And live -[2964.76 --> 2965.58] Life together -[2965.58 --> 2967.12] I pray -[2967.12 --> 2967.54] That you would -[2967.54 --> 2967.92] Be with -[2967.92 --> 2968.70] Pastor Chris -[2968.70 --> 2969.48] As he brings -[2969.48 --> 2969.74] You -[2969.74 --> 2970.90] Brings us -[2970.90 --> 2971.70] Your word -[2971.70 --> 2973.00] And that our -[2973.00 --> 2973.66] Hearts would be -[2973.66 --> 2974.24] Opened -[2974.24 --> 2975.02] To listen -[2975.02 --> 2975.94] And to listen -[2975.94 --> 2976.50] To you -[2976.50 --> 2976.86] And your -[2976.86 --> 2977.46] Holy Spirit -[2977.46 --> 2977.96] Working -[2977.96 --> 2979.14] In your name -[2979.14 --> 2979.58] We pray -[2979.58 --> 2980.26] Amen -[2995.58 --> 3009.62] Morning -[3009.62 --> 3011.22] In our -[3011.22 --> 3011.60] Time -[3011.60 --> 3011.98] Together -[3011.98 --> 3012.34] We're going -[3012.34 --> 3013.72] To conclude -[3013.72 --> 3014.60] The series -[3014.60 --> 3015.12] That we have -[3015.12 --> 3015.64] Been working -[3015.64 --> 3015.92] Through -[3015.92 --> 3016.26] Called -[3016.26 --> 3017.20] Holy Habits -[3017.20 --> 3018.22] We have -[3018.22 --> 3018.66] Given out -[3018.66 --> 3019.50] These books -[3019.50 --> 3020.08] For you to -[3020.08 --> 3020.68] Take home -[3020.68 --> 3021.70] And to use -[3021.70 --> 3022.28] Throughout the -[3022.28 --> 3022.56] Week -[3022.56 --> 3023.60] As you -[3023.60 --> 3024.36] Continue to -[3024.36 --> 3024.98] Put into -[3024.98 --> 3025.50] Practice -[3025.50 --> 3026.16] Those things -[3026.16 --> 3026.54] We have -[3026.54 --> 3026.78] Been -[3026.78 --> 3028.38] Discussing -[3028.38 --> 3028.64] And those -[3028.64 --> 3029.02] Habits -[3029.02 --> 3029.40] We have -[3029.40 --> 3029.86] Hopefully -[3029.86 --> 3030.40] The Lord -[3030.40 --> 3030.74] Willing -[3030.74 --> 3031.50] Been forming -[3031.50 --> 3033.00] In our -[3033.00 --> 3033.78] Lives -[3033.78 --> 3034.40] Together -[3034.40 --> 3036.74] Now -[3036.74 --> 3039.32] Maybe -[3039.32 --> 3043.82] Maybe the -[3043.82 --> 3044.46] End is -[3044.46 --> 3044.92] The wrong -[3044.92 --> 3045.54] The end of -[3045.54 --> 3045.86] A series -[3045.86 --> 3046.36] Is the wrong -[3046.36 --> 3046.82] Place to -[3046.82 --> 3047.24] Bring this -[3047.24 --> 3047.48] Up -[3047.48 --> 3047.80] But -[3047.80 --> 3050.40] I know -[3050.40 --> 3051.16] That for -[3051.16 --> 3052.08] Some of -[3052.08 --> 3052.52] You -[3052.52 --> 3054.60] For some -[3054.60 --> 3055.28] Of us -[3055.28 --> 3055.78] Here -[3055.78 --> 3057.12] In worship -[3057.12 --> 3058.00] And in -[3058.00 --> 3058.78] This church -[3058.78 --> 3059.28] Community -[3059.28 --> 3060.32] That when -[3060.32 --> 3060.88] We start -[3060.88 --> 3061.98] Talking about -[3061.98 --> 3063.66] Holy habits -[3063.66 --> 3064.04] Or -[3064.04 --> 3065.20] Spiritual -[3065.20 --> 3066.38] Disciplines -[3066.38 --> 3067.42] For some -[3067.42 --> 3067.92] Of you -[3067.92 --> 3069.42] Your -[3069.42 --> 3071.58] Antennae -[3071.58 --> 3072.22] Go up -[3072.22 --> 3073.74] And you're -[3073.74 --> 3074.44] Like oh -[3074.44 --> 3075.14] What's he -[3075.14 --> 3075.38] Going to -[3075.38 --> 3075.82] Talk about -[3075.82 --> 3076.20] Now -[3076.20 --> 3077.58] That sounds -[3077.58 --> 3078.28] Like strange -[3078.28 --> 3078.92] Mysticism -[3078.92 --> 3080.24] That sounds -[3080.24 --> 3080.96] Like this -[3080.96 --> 3081.58] Eastern -[3081.58 --> 3081.96] New -[3081.96 --> 3082.28] Age -[3082.28 --> 3082.66] Ism -[3082.66 --> 3085.80] And so -[3085.80 --> 3086.26] Maybe -[3086.26 --> 3087.02] If that's -[3087.02 --> 3087.22] You -[3087.22 --> 3087.74] You haven't -[3087.74 --> 3088.20] Really been -[3088.20 --> 3088.82] Hearing or -[3088.82 --> 3089.38] Listening -[3089.38 --> 3091.54] And I want -[3091.54 --> 3091.98] To invite -[3091.98 --> 3092.56] You on -[3092.56 --> 3093.12] This last -[3093.12 --> 3093.60] Chance -[3093.60 --> 3094.16] To ask -[3094.16 --> 3094.72] What if -[3094.72 --> 3095.34] This is -[3095.34 --> 3095.80] The right -[3095.80 --> 3096.32] Way to -[3096.32 --> 3096.76] Be a -[3096.76 --> 3097.18] Disciple -[3097.18 --> 3097.66] Of jesus -[3097.66 --> 3098.18] Just ask -[3098.18 --> 3098.74] The question -[3098.74 --> 3099.84] And wrestle -[3099.84 --> 3100.32] With that -[3100.32 --> 3102.06] For others -[3102.06 --> 3102.70] Of you -[3102.70 --> 3103.62] As we -[3103.62 --> 3104.28] Start talking -[3104.28 --> 3105.10] About holy -[3105.10 --> 3105.58] Habits -[3105.58 --> 3105.88] As we -[3105.88 --> 3106.42] Start talking -[3106.42 --> 3106.92] About these -[3106.92 --> 3107.46] Kinds of -[3107.46 --> 3107.90] Things that -[3107.90 --> 3108.16] We are -[3108.16 --> 3108.68] Called to -[3108.68 --> 3109.56] To shape -[3109.56 --> 3110.28] Our life -[3110.28 --> 3110.74] Around -[3110.74 --> 3112.00] There's this -[3112.00 --> 3112.60] Deep feeling -[3112.60 --> 3113.16] Of like -[3113.16 --> 3113.98] Guilt or -[3113.98 --> 3114.50] Shame -[3114.50 --> 3115.72] Because we -[3115.72 --> 3115.98] Go I -[3115.98 --> 3116.40] Know I -[3116.40 --> 3116.84] Should do -[3116.84 --> 3117.16] This -[3117.16 --> 3117.70] I know I -[3117.70 --> 3118.02] Should do -[3118.02 --> 3118.58] More of -[3118.58 --> 3118.78] This -[3118.78 --> 3119.28] I know I -[3119.28 --> 3119.62] Should be -[3119.62 --> 3120.28] Engaged or -[3120.28 --> 3120.80] Involved -[3120.80 --> 3120.98] Or -[3120.98 --> 3122.26] Practicing -[3122.26 --> 3123.02] More prayer -[3123.02 --> 3123.46] Or -[3123.46 --> 3124.44] Community -[3124.44 --> 3125.32] Or -[3125.32 --> 3126.12] Bible -[3126.12 --> 3126.70] Study -[3126.70 --> 3128.46] And that -[3128.46 --> 3128.86] Guilt -[3128.86 --> 3129.62] That shame -[3129.62 --> 3130.02] Has -[3130.02 --> 3131.42] The force -[3131.42 --> 3131.84] To -[3131.84 --> 3132.86] Kind of -[3132.86 --> 3133.42] Hold at -[3133.42 --> 3133.72] Bay -[3133.72 --> 3134.08] What it -[3134.08 --> 3134.38] Is we -[3134.38 --> 3134.88] Talk about -[3134.88 --> 3135.14] Here -[3135.14 --> 3136.12] Because we're -[3136.12 --> 3136.54] Afraid that -[3136.54 --> 3136.84] It's going to -[3136.84 --> 3137.18] Make us -[3137.18 --> 3137.68] Feel even -[3137.68 --> 3138.16] More of -[3138.16 --> 3138.44] That -[3138.44 --> 3139.98] And again -[3139.98 --> 3140.42] If that's -[3140.42 --> 3141.04] You this -[3141.04 --> 3141.34] Morning -[3141.34 --> 3142.16] I just -[3142.16 --> 3142.34] Want to -[3142.34 --> 3142.72] Encourage -[3142.72 --> 3143.18] You and -[3143.18 --> 3143.80] Ask if -[3143.80 --> 3143.98] You would -[3143.98 --> 3144.14] Just -[3144.14 --> 3146.14] Listen -[3146.14 --> 3146.94] With a -[3146.94 --> 3147.50] Soft -[3147.50 --> 3148.24] Heart -[3148.24 --> 3149.28] Not one -[3149.28 --> 3149.96] That condemns -[3149.96 --> 3150.60] Yourself -[3150.60 --> 3151.04] But one -[3151.04 --> 3151.64] That asks -[3151.64 --> 3152.22] What does -[3152.22 --> 3152.78] Jesus have -[3152.78 --> 3153.34] For me -[3153.34 --> 3154.08] In this -[3154.08 --> 3154.40] Moment -[3154.40 --> 3154.82] And in -[3154.82 --> 3155.02] This -[3155.02 --> 3155.42] Practice -[3155.42 --> 3157.12] Now -[3157.12 --> 3159.94] To address -[3159.94 --> 3160.46] The first -[3160.46 --> 3161.02] And then -[3161.02 --> 3161.74] Throughout -[3161.74 --> 3162.16] To the -[3162.16 --> 3162.44] Second -[3162.44 --> 3163.72] I want -[3163.72 --> 3163.96] To be -[3163.96 --> 3164.54] Really clear -[3164.54 --> 3164.84] That when -[3164.84 --> 3165.86] We started -[3165.86 --> 3167.12] This series -[3167.12 --> 3167.60] Together -[3167.60 --> 3168.42] I mentioned -[3168.42 --> 3169.24] That all -[3169.24 --> 3169.74] Of these -[3169.74 --> 3170.54] Practices -[3170.54 --> 3171.42] That we -[3171.42 --> 3171.76] Were going -[3171.76 --> 3172.32] To highlight -[3172.32 --> 3172.80] All of -[3172.80 --> 3173.38] These holy -[3173.38 --> 3174.00] Habits -[3174.00 --> 3174.58] That we -[3174.58 --> 3174.84] Were going -[3174.84 --> 3175.48] To discuss -[3175.48 --> 3175.94] Can be -[3175.94 --> 3176.40] Found -[3176.40 --> 3177.18] In the -[3177.18 --> 3178.34] Description -[3178.34 --> 3179.08] Of what -[3179.08 --> 3179.82] The earliest -[3179.82 --> 3180.64] Church -[3180.64 --> 3181.44] Did in -[3181.44 --> 3182.06] Their life -[3182.06 --> 3182.54] Together -[3182.54 --> 3183.72] In Acts -[3183.72 --> 3183.98] 2 -[3183.98 --> 3185.14] So I'm -[3185.14 --> 3185.30] Going to -[3185.30 --> 3185.80] Start us -[3185.80 --> 3186.24] In Acts -[3186.24 --> 3186.56] 2 -[3186.56 --> 3186.92] But the -[3186.92 --> 3187.16] Text -[3187.16 --> 3187.42] That we're -[3187.42 --> 3187.66] Going to -[3187.66 --> 3188.28] Live for -[3188.28 --> 3188.72] The majority -[3188.72 --> 3189.04] Of our -[3189.04 --> 3189.32] Time -[3189.32 --> 3189.72] In is -[3189.72 --> 3190.06] Actually -[3190.06 --> 3190.56] In Luke -[3190.56 --> 3191.04] 12 -[3191.04 --> 3193.48] So if -[3193.48 --> 3193.76] You want -[3193.76 --> 3194.06] To read -[3194.06 --> 3194.40] Along -[3194.40 --> 3194.72] You can -[3194.72 --> 3195.02] Find -[3195.02 --> 3195.38] Acts -[3195.38 --> 3195.74] 2 -[3195.74 --> 3198.08] But it -[3198.08 --> 3198.36] Will be -[3198.36 --> 3198.62] On the -[3198.62 --> 3198.94] Screen -[3198.94 --> 3200.02] Behind me -[3200.02 --> 3200.38] As well -[3200.38 --> 3201.90] And so -[3201.90 --> 3202.86] In Acts -[3202.86 --> 3203.16] 2 -[3203.16 --> 3203.68] Starting at -[3203.68 --> 3204.36] Verse 42 -[3204.36 --> 3206.04] We read -[3206.04 --> 3206.76] They devoted -[3206.76 --> 3207.76] Themselves to -[3207.76 --> 3208.50] The apostles -[3208.50 --> 3209.08] Teaching -[3209.08 --> 3210.86] And so -[3210.86 --> 3211.48] In our -[3211.48 --> 3211.86] Worship -[3211.86 --> 3213.04] We discussed -[3213.04 --> 3213.86] What listening -[3213.86 --> 3214.56] To Jesus -[3214.56 --> 3215.58] Word by -[3215.58 --> 3216.58] Devotionally -[3216.58 --> 3217.30] Being in -[3217.30 --> 3217.96] The word -[3217.96 --> 3219.00] Reading it -[3219.00 --> 3219.80] And studying -[3219.80 --> 3220.46] The bible -[3220.46 --> 3221.42] Might mean -[3221.42 --> 3222.02] For you -[3222.02 --> 3223.06] And in -[3223.06 --> 3223.88] Your community -[3223.88 --> 3226.40] They devoted -[3226.40 --> 3227.10] Themselves to -[3227.10 --> 3227.60] The apostles -[3227.60 --> 3228.10] Teaching -[3228.10 --> 3228.50] To the -[3228.50 --> 3228.86] Breaking -[3228.86 --> 3229.64] Of bread -[3229.64 --> 3230.46] And to -[3230.46 --> 3230.84] Prayer -[3230.84 --> 3232.32] And so -[3232.32 --> 3233.48] We discussed -[3233.48 --> 3234.10] Worship -[3234.10 --> 3235.18] And devotional -[3235.18 --> 3235.58] Prayer -[3235.58 --> 3236.34] And we -[3236.34 --> 3237.02] Offered some -[3237.02 --> 3237.62] Ways for -[3237.62 --> 3237.86] You to -[3237.86 --> 3238.28] Do that -[3238.28 --> 3238.52] More -[3238.52 --> 3239.70] Intentionally -[3239.70 --> 3240.20] Both by -[3240.20 --> 3240.76] Yourself -[3240.76 --> 3241.80] And in -[3241.80 --> 3242.32] Community -[3242.32 --> 3244.16] And they -[3244.16 --> 3244.86] Keep looking -[3244.86 --> 3245.50] Keep reading -[3245.50 --> 3246.08] They devoted -[3246.08 --> 3246.98] Themselves to -[3246.98 --> 3248.22] Fellowship -[3248.22 --> 3248.48] Right -[3248.48 --> 3249.04] All the -[3249.04 --> 3249.48] Believers -[3249.48 --> 3250.14] Were together -[3250.14 --> 3250.88] Every day -[3250.88 --> 3251.48] They continued -[3251.48 --> 3251.94] To meet -[3251.94 --> 3252.36] Together -[3252.36 --> 3253.12] In the -[3253.12 --> 3253.56] Temple's -[3253.56 --> 3253.94] Courts -[3253.94 --> 3254.56] They had -[3254.56 --> 3255.22] Glad and -[3255.22 --> 3255.80] Sincere -[3255.80 --> 3256.26] Hearts -[3256.26 --> 3256.94] Enjoying -[3256.94 --> 3257.44] The favor -[3257.44 --> 3258.02] Of all -[3258.02 --> 3259.00] The people -[3259.00 --> 3260.22] And so -[3260.22 --> 3260.84] We talked -[3260.84 --> 3261.30] About -[3261.30 --> 3262.26] Resting -[3262.26 --> 3263.16] In -[3263.16 --> 3263.80] Community -[3263.80 --> 3264.32] Right -[3264.32 --> 3265.14] About trusting -[3265.14 --> 3265.72] God's -[3265.72 --> 3266.42] Provision -[3266.42 --> 3267.10] And living -[3267.10 --> 3267.70] Out of -[3267.70 --> 3268.74] An eternal -[3268.74 --> 3269.48] Sabbath -[3269.48 --> 3269.84] Again -[3269.84 --> 3270.74] By yourself -[3270.74 --> 3271.54] And in -[3271.54 --> 3272.46] Community -[3272.46 --> 3273.22] Together -[3273.22 --> 3273.82] Sharing -[3273.82 --> 3274.48] Life -[3274.48 --> 3275.16] And faith -[3275.16 --> 3276.32] And story -[3276.32 --> 3277.04] As a -[3277.04 --> 3277.74] The phrase -[3277.74 --> 3278.16] That Kevin -[3278.16 --> 3278.72] Used and I -[3278.72 --> 3279.46] Really loved it -[3279.46 --> 3280.12] As an act -[3280.12 --> 3281.18] Of resistance -[3281.18 --> 3282.56] To the -[3282.56 --> 3283.04] Formative -[3283.04 --> 3283.74] Idols -[3283.74 --> 3285.02] Of the -[3285.02 --> 3285.32] World -[3285.32 --> 3286.88] And then -[3286.88 --> 3287.34] Now -[3287.34 --> 3288.36] At the -[3288.36 --> 3288.88] End -[3288.88 --> 3290.62] They devoted -[3290.62 --> 3291.52] Themselves to -[3291.52 --> 3292.24] Being together -[3292.24 --> 3293.00] And holding -[3293.00 --> 3293.94] Everything -[3293.94 --> 3294.82] In common -[3294.82 --> 3296.30] They sold -[3296.30 --> 3297.10] Property and -[3297.10 --> 3297.90] Possessions to -[3297.90 --> 3298.28] Give to -[3298.28 --> 3298.98] Anyone who -[3298.98 --> 3299.62] Had need -[3299.62 --> 3300.26] And then -[3300.26 --> 3300.72] The last -[3300.72 --> 3301.20] Line if -[3301.20 --> 3301.46] You have -[3301.46 --> 3301.94] That there -[3301.94 --> 3302.64] And the -[3302.64 --> 3303.42] Lord added -[3303.42 --> 3303.92] To their -[3303.92 --> 3304.28] Number -[3304.28 --> 3304.94] Daily -[3304.94 --> 3306.02] Those -[3306.02 --> 3306.70] Who were -[3306.70 --> 3307.36] Being saved -[3307.36 --> 3309.28] And so -[3309.28 --> 3309.82] For today -[3309.82 --> 3310.58] For our -[3310.58 --> 3311.06] Last -[3311.06 --> 3311.78] Holy -[3311.78 --> 3312.48] Habit -[3312.48 --> 3313.48] We are -[3313.48 --> 3314.44] Giving to -[3314.44 --> 3315.44] And joining -[3315.44 --> 3315.94] In -[3315.94 --> 3316.44] Jesus -[3316.44 --> 3317.16] Mission -[3317.16 --> 3317.90] To the -[3317.90 --> 3318.20] World -[3318.20 --> 3319.30] Or the -[3319.30 --> 3319.60] Way that -[3319.60 --> 3320.06] We put -[3320.06 --> 3320.36] It in -[3320.36 --> 3320.92] That book -[3320.92 --> 3321.56] If you -[3321.56 --> 3321.84] Have it -[3321.84 --> 3322.38] With you -[3322.38 --> 3322.98] Right -[3322.98 --> 3323.50] The big -[3323.50 --> 3324.02] Idea -[3324.02 --> 3324.80] For this -[3324.80 --> 3325.12] Morning -[3325.12 --> 3325.66] Is that -[3325.66 --> 3326.32] The disciple -[3326.32 --> 3327.14] Of Jesus -[3327.14 --> 3327.74] Gives -[3327.74 --> 3328.66] Themselves -[3328.66 --> 3329.04] To the -[3329.04 --> 3329.66] Work of -[3329.66 --> 3330.08] Jesus -[3330.08 --> 3331.46] In the -[3331.46 --> 3331.72] World -[3331.72 --> 3334.14] And so -[3334.14 --> 3335.36] Yes -[3335.36 --> 3337.20] Today -[3337.20 --> 3337.96] Is going -[3337.96 --> 3338.38] To be -[3338.38 --> 3338.78] About -[3338.78 --> 3339.72] Money -[3339.72 --> 3341.88] But -[3341.88 --> 3342.30] Really -[3342.30 --> 3343.72] Money -[3343.72 --> 3344.12] As a -[3344.12 --> 3344.46] Litmus -[3344.46 --> 3345.02] Test -[3345.02 --> 3345.90] Right -[3345.90 --> 3346.12] Because -[3346.12 --> 3346.34] It's -[3346.34 --> 3346.60] It's -[3346.60 --> 3346.84] Going to -[3346.84 --> 3347.02] Be -[3347.02 --> 3347.32] About -[3347.32 --> 3347.58] So -[3347.58 --> 3347.82] Much -[3347.82 --> 3348.18] More -[3348.18 --> 3349.74] Now -[3349.74 --> 3349.92] We've -[3349.92 --> 3350.08] Said -[3350.08 --> 3350.28] This -[3350.28 --> 3350.66] A bunch -[3350.66 --> 3350.80] Of -[3350.80 --> 3351.02] Ways -[3351.02 --> 3351.24] Over -[3351.24 --> 3351.48] These -[3351.48 --> 3351.80] Last -[3351.80 --> 3352.16] Number -[3352.16 --> 3352.34] Of -[3352.34 --> 3352.62] Weeks -[3352.62 --> 3352.78] But -[3352.78 --> 3352.96] I'll -[3352.96 --> 3353.14] Say -[3353.14 --> 3353.26] It -[3353.26 --> 3353.52] Again -[3353.52 --> 3353.80] Because -[3353.80 --> 3354.02] It is -[3354.02 --> 3354.22] Worth -[3354.22 --> 3354.70] Repeating -[3354.70 --> 3355.30] Right -[3355.30 --> 3355.62] What -[3355.62 --> 3355.88] You -[3355.88 --> 3356.60] Love -[3356.60 --> 3357.44] Shapes -[3357.44 --> 3358.00] Your -[3358.00 --> 3358.74] Habits -[3358.74 --> 3359.94] And -[3359.94 --> 3360.54] Your -[3360.54 --> 3361.24] Habits -[3361.24 --> 3361.88] Shape -[3361.88 --> 3362.40] What -[3362.40 --> 3362.56] You -[3362.56 --> 3362.86] Love -[3362.86 --> 3364.64] And -[3364.64 --> 3364.78] Then -[3364.78 --> 3365.04] Further -[3365.04 --> 3365.24] To -[3365.24 --> 3365.50] That -[3365.50 --> 3365.76] You -[3365.76 --> 3366.22] Are -[3366.22 --> 3366.60] Or -[3366.60 --> 3366.86] You -[3366.86 --> 3367.44] Become -[3367.44 --> 3368.52] What -[3368.52 --> 3368.68] You -[3368.68 --> 3368.98] Love -[3368.98 --> 3370.70] Now -[3370.70 --> 3371.56] If you -[3371.56 --> 3372.02] Recall -[3372.02 --> 3372.32] Back -[3372.32 --> 3372.50] To -[3372.50 --> 3372.64] The -[3372.64 --> 3372.96] First -[3372.96 --> 3373.76] Sermon -[3373.76 --> 3373.98] In -[3373.98 --> 3374.22] This -[3374.22 --> 3374.54] Little -[3374.54 --> 3375.10] Series -[3375.10 --> 3376.18] I -[3376.18 --> 3376.42] Made -[3376.42 --> 3376.80] Reference -[3376.80 --> 3377.02] To -[3377.02 --> 3377.18] A -[3377.18 --> 3377.46] Book -[3377.46 --> 3377.88] Called -[3377.88 --> 3378.08] You -[3378.08 --> 3378.32] Are -[3378.32 --> 3378.54] What -[3378.54 --> 3378.68] You -[3378.68 --> 3379.04] Love -[3379.04 --> 3379.26] By -[3379.26 --> 3379.40] A -[3379.40 --> 3379.58] Little -[3379.58 --> 3381.02] Book -[3381.02 --> 3381.24] By -[3381.24 --> 3381.36] A -[3381.36 --> 3381.60] Great -[3381.60 --> 3382.08] Christian -[3382.08 --> 3383.02] Philosopher -[3383.02 --> 3383.48] Named -[3383.48 --> 3383.82] Jamie -[3383.82 --> 3384.20] Smith -[3384.20 --> 3384.38] And -[3384.38 --> 3384.54] It's -[3384.54 --> 3384.70] Been -[3384.70 --> 3384.94] Very -[3384.94 --> 3385.54] Influential -[3385.54 --> 3385.84] In -[3385.84 --> 3385.94] My -[3385.94 --> 3386.76] In -[3386.76 --> 3386.90] My -[3386.90 --> 3387.06] In -[3387.06 --> 3387.08] My -[3387.08 --> 3387.78] In -[3387.78 --> 3388.86] My -[3388.86 --> 3389.76] In -[3389.76 --> 3390.04] In -[3390.04 --> 3391.14] In -[3391.14 --> 3392.16] Jamie's -[3392.16 --> 3392.60] Language -[3392.60 --> 3393.06] Building -[3393.06 --> 3393.96] Intentional -[3393.96 --> 3394.48] Liturgies -[3394.48 --> 3394.70] Of -[3394.70 --> 3395.38] Practice -[3395.38 --> 3396.14] What -[3396.14 --> 3396.28] We -[3396.28 --> 3396.52] Have -[3396.52 --> 3396.76] Called -[3396.76 --> 3397.16] Rhythms -[3397.16 --> 3397.40] Of -[3397.40 --> 3397.84] Resistance -[3397.84 --> 3398.38] Into -[3398.38 --> 3398.84] Our -[3398.84 --> 3399.26] Lives -[3399.26 --> 3399.42] And -[3399.42 --> 3399.84] If -[3399.84 --> 3399.90] You -[3399.90 --> 3400.08] Want -[3400.08 --> 3400.22] You -[3400.22 --> 3400.34] Can -[3400.34 --> 3400.48] Go -[3400.48 --> 3400.78] Back -[3400.78 --> 3400.98] To -[3400.98 --> 3401.10] Our -[3401.10 --> 3401.26] Church -[3401.26 --> 3401.72] Website -[3401.72 --> 3401.84] You -[3401.84 --> 3401.98] Can -[3401.98 --> 3402.26] Find -[3402.26 --> 3402.44] That -[3402.44 --> 3402.70] First -[3402.70 --> 3403.14] Message -[3403.14 --> 3403.96] Online -[3403.96 --> 3404.16] And -[3404.16 --> 3404.32] For -[3404.32 --> 3404.46] A -[3404.46 --> 3404.86] Refresher -[3404.86 --> 3405.62] But -[3405.62 --> 3405.92] That's -[3405.92 --> 3406.24] Why -[3406.24 --> 3407.38] As -[3407.38 --> 3407.54] We -[3407.54 --> 3407.82] Talk -[3407.82 --> 3408.12] About -[3408.12 --> 3408.78] Money -[3408.78 --> 3409.28] As -[3409.28 --> 3409.40] We -[3409.40 --> 3409.62] Talk -[3409.62 --> 3409.88] About -[3409.88 --> 3410.60] Wealth -[3410.60 --> 3410.84] As -[3410.84 --> 3410.98] We -[3410.98 --> 3411.22] Talk -[3411.22 --> 3411.48] About -[3411.48 --> 3412.18] Time -[3412.18 --> 3412.40] Or -[3412.40 --> 3412.84] Talents -[3412.84 --> 3413.00] Or -[3413.00 --> 3413.34] Treasures -[3413.34 --> 3413.58] Of -[3413.58 --> 3413.92] Any -[3413.92 --> 3414.38] Form -[3414.38 --> 3415.46] This -[3415.46 --> 3415.78] Morning -[3415.78 --> 3416.44] We're -[3416.44 --> 3416.54] Going -[3416.54 --> 3416.64] To -[3416.64 --> 3416.90] Do -[3416.90 --> 3417.38] That -[3417.38 --> 3417.88] Through -[3417.88 --> 3418.12] The -[3418.12 --> 3418.54] Lens -[3418.54 --> 3419.00] Now -[3419.00 --> 3419.96] Of -[3419.96 --> 3420.42] Luke -[3420.42 --> 3421.30] 12 -[3421.30 --> 3422.54] And -[3422.54 --> 3422.70] So -[3422.70 --> 3423.02] Just -[3423.02 --> 3423.92] A -[3423.92 --> 3424.14] Couple -[3424.14 --> 3424.90] Short -[3424.90 --> 3425.48] Verses -[3425.48 --> 3426.44] From -[3426.44 --> 3426.64] Luke -[3426.64 --> 3426.96] 12 -[3426.96 --> 3429.86] Jesus -[3429.86 --> 3430.20] Says -[3430.20 --> 3430.40] Do -[3430.40 --> 3430.66] Not -[3430.66 --> 3430.88] Be -[3430.88 --> 3431.42] Afraid -[3431.42 --> 3431.98] Little -[3431.98 --> 3432.56] Flock -[3432.56 --> 3433.40] For -[3433.40 --> 3433.56] Your -[3433.56 --> 3434.00] Father -[3434.00 --> 3434.36] Has -[3434.36 --> 3434.54] Been -[3434.54 --> 3435.06] Pleased -[3435.06 --> 3435.34] To -[3435.34 --> 3435.62] Give -[3435.62 --> 3435.82] You -[3435.82 --> 3436.00] The -[3436.00 --> 3436.34] Kingdom -[3436.34 --> 3438.16] Sell -[3438.16 --> 3438.42] Your -[3438.42 --> 3439.06] Possessions -[3439.06 --> 3439.46] And -[3439.46 --> 3439.72] Give -[3439.72 --> 3439.90] To -[3439.90 --> 3440.02] The -[3440.02 --> 3440.32] Poor -[3440.32 --> 3441.22] Provide -[3441.22 --> 3441.64] Purses -[3441.64 --> 3441.86] For -[3441.86 --> 3442.00] Your -[3442.00 --> 3442.44] Selves -[3442.44 --> 3442.60] That -[3442.60 --> 3442.76] Will -[3442.76 --> 3443.00] Not -[3443.00 --> 3443.20] Wear -[3443.20 --> 3443.56] Out -[3443.56 --> 3443.98] A -[3443.98 --> 3444.30] Treasure -[3444.30 --> 3444.58] In -[3444.58 --> 3444.88] Heaven -[3444.88 --> 3445.12] That -[3445.12 --> 3445.26] Will -[3445.26 --> 3445.56] Never -[3445.56 --> 3446.06] Fail -[3446.06 --> 3446.58] Where -[3446.58 --> 3446.92] No -[3446.92 --> 3447.48] Thief -[3447.48 --> 3447.98] Comes -[3447.98 --> 3448.36] Near -[3448.36 --> 3448.62] And -[3448.62 --> 3448.88] No -[3448.88 --> 3449.38] Moth -[3449.38 --> 3450.12] Destroys -[3450.12 --> 3451.40] For -[3451.40 --> 3451.66] Where -[3451.66 --> 3451.90] Your -[3451.90 --> 3452.36] Treasure -[3452.36 --> 3452.96] Is -[3452.96 --> 3454.30] There -[3454.30 --> 3454.62] Your -[3454.62 --> 3455.12] Heart -[3455.12 --> 3455.46] Will -[3455.46 --> 3455.88] Be -[3455.88 --> 3457.10] Also -[3457.10 --> 3459.86] Now -[3459.86 --> 3460.16] Remember -[3460.16 --> 3460.44] Our -[3460.44 --> 3460.80] Theme -[3460.80 --> 3461.86] The -[3461.86 --> 3462.40] Disciple -[3462.40 --> 3462.64] Of -[3462.64 --> 3463.02] Jesus -[3463.02 --> 3463.46] Gives -[3463.46 --> 3464.38] Themselves -[3464.38 --> 3464.62] To -[3464.62 --> 3464.80] The -[3464.80 --> 3465.12] Work -[3465.12 --> 3465.40] Of -[3465.40 --> 3465.74] Jesus -[3465.74 --> 3466.22] In -[3466.22 --> 3466.36] The -[3466.36 --> 3466.62] World -[3466.62 --> 3468.30] Why -[3468.30 --> 3471.06] Because -[3471.06 --> 3471.60] Jesus -[3471.60 --> 3472.58] Is -[3472.58 --> 3472.78] The -[3472.78 --> 3473.22] Object -[3473.22 --> 3473.96] And -[3473.96 --> 3474.24] The -[3474.24 --> 3474.82] Source -[3474.82 --> 3475.50] Of -[3475.50 --> 3475.88] Our -[3475.88 --> 3476.54] Affection -[3476.54 --> 3477.52] Right -[3477.52 --> 3477.78] Our -[3477.78 --> 3478.24] Love -[3478.24 --> 3478.50] For -[3478.50 --> 3478.86] Him -[3478.86 --> 3479.46] And -[3479.46 --> 3479.72] Our -[3479.72 --> 3480.10] Love -[3480.10 --> 3480.36] For -[3480.36 --> 3480.52] The -[3480.52 --> 3480.92] World -[3480.92 --> 3482.36] Created -[3482.36 --> 3482.86] By -[3482.86 --> 3483.38] His -[3483.38 --> 3483.92] Word -[3483.92 --> 3484.58] In -[3484.58 --> 3485.02] Us -[3485.02 --> 3487.28] And -[3487.28 --> 3487.48] So -[3487.48 --> 3489.24] Before -[3489.24 --> 3489.56] We -[3489.56 --> 3490.46] Get to -[3490.46 --> 3490.60] How -[3490.60 --> 3490.76] This -[3490.76 --> 3491.00] Works -[3491.00 --> 3491.22] Out -[3491.22 --> 3491.38] In -[3491.38 --> 3491.64] Money -[3491.64 --> 3491.90] And -[3491.90 --> 3492.44] Possession -[3492.44 --> 3493.36] I -[3493.36 --> 3493.52] Want -[3493.52 --> 3493.62] You -[3493.62 --> 3493.76] To -[3493.76 --> 3493.94] See -[3493.94 --> 3494.26] Something -[3494.26 --> 3494.86] Amazing -[3494.86 --> 3495.42] About -[3495.42 --> 3495.76] This -[3495.76 --> 3496.52] Little -[3496.52 --> 3497.34] Text -[3497.34 --> 3497.88] Now -[3497.88 --> 3498.14] Jesus -[3498.14 --> 3498.84] Starts -[3498.84 --> 3499.38] Here -[3499.38 --> 3499.56] In -[3499.56 --> 3499.74] These -[3499.74 --> 3500.04] Few -[3500.04 --> 3500.58] Verses -[3500.58 --> 3500.82] By -[3500.82 --> 3501.44] Telling -[3501.44 --> 3501.74] Us -[3501.74 --> 3502.06] Something -[3502.06 --> 3502.52] About -[3502.52 --> 3502.98] Who -[3502.98 --> 3503.84] You -[3503.84 --> 3504.36] Are -[3504.36 --> 3504.92] In -[3504.92 --> 3505.56] Him -[3505.56 --> 3506.06] And -[3506.06 --> 3506.44] Who -[3506.44 --> 3506.94] He -[3506.94 --> 3507.70] Is -[3507.70 --> 3508.46] For -[3508.46 --> 3508.74] You -[3508.74 --> 3509.80] Look -[3509.80 --> 3509.90] At -[3509.90 --> 3510.10] The -[3510.10 --> 3510.66] Very -[3510.66 --> 3511.06] First -[3511.06 --> 3511.64] Verse -[3511.64 --> 3511.78] That -[3511.78 --> 3511.88] We -[3511.88 --> 3512.10] Read -[3512.10 --> 3512.36] Verse -[3512.36 --> 3512.80] 32 -[3512.80 --> 3513.54] Does -[3513.54 --> 3513.80] Do -[3513.80 --> 3514.08] Not -[3514.08 --> 3514.32] Be -[3514.32 --> 3515.08] Afraid -[3515.08 --> 3515.96] Little -[3515.96 --> 3517.20] Flock -[3517.20 --> 3518.96] Now -[3518.96 --> 3519.12] That -[3519.12 --> 3519.82] Phrase -[3519.82 --> 3520.28] Little -[3520.28 --> 3521.02] Flock -[3521.02 --> 3521.50] Stuck -[3521.50 --> 3521.82] Out -[3521.82 --> 3522.68] Stuck -[3522.68 --> 3522.92] Out -[3522.92 --> 3523.08] To -[3523.08 --> 3523.30] Me -[3523.30 --> 3523.64] This -[3523.64 --> 3523.92] Week -[3523.92 --> 3524.14] As -[3524.14 --> 3524.30] I -[3524.30 --> 3524.54] Was -[3524.54 --> 3525.42] Preparing -[3525.42 --> 3525.68] For -[3525.68 --> 3525.98] Today -[3525.98 --> 3526.96] That -[3526.96 --> 3527.22] Little -[3527.22 --> 3527.84] Phrase -[3527.84 --> 3528.44] Little -[3528.44 --> 3528.98] Flock -[3528.98 --> 3529.50] Isn't -[3529.50 --> 3529.78] Used -[3529.78 --> 3530.24] Anywhere -[3530.24 --> 3530.52] Else -[3530.52 --> 3530.74] In -[3530.74 --> 3530.88] The -[3530.88 --> 3531.08] Greek -[3531.08 --> 3531.28] New -[3531.28 --> 3531.62] Testament -[3531.62 --> 3532.72] Now -[3532.72 --> 3533.20] The -[3533.20 --> 3533.42] Word -[3533.42 --> 3533.96] Flock -[3533.96 --> 3534.28] Is -[3534.28 --> 3534.76] Used -[3534.76 --> 3535.42] A -[3535.42 --> 3535.62] Few -[3535.62 --> 3536.12] Times -[3536.12 --> 3536.70] Especially -[3536.70 --> 3537.66] Regarding -[3537.66 --> 3538.46] Leaders -[3538.46 --> 3538.94] Being -[3538.94 --> 3539.64] Instructed -[3539.64 --> 3539.86] To -[3539.86 --> 3540.26] Care -[3540.26 --> 3540.58] For -[3540.58 --> 3540.82] Their -[3540.82 --> 3541.28] Flocks -[3541.28 --> 3541.58] Like -[3541.58 --> 3541.72] A -[3541.72 --> 3541.88] Good -[3541.88 --> 3542.20] Shepherd -[3542.20 --> 3543.22] But -[3543.22 --> 3543.54] There's -[3543.54 --> 3543.90] Something -[3543.90 --> 3544.78] Unique -[3544.78 --> 3545.14] And -[3545.14 --> 3545.82] Particular -[3545.82 --> 3546.40] About -[3546.40 --> 3546.84] Jesus -[3546.84 --> 3547.56] Using -[3547.56 --> 3548.30] That -[3548.30 --> 3549.16] Identifier -[3549.16 --> 3549.62] Little -[3549.62 --> 3550.34] Flock -[3550.34 --> 3551.06] Here -[3551.06 --> 3551.30] And -[3551.30 --> 3551.60] Now -[3551.60 --> 3552.62] In -[3552.62 --> 3552.78] Many -[3552.78 --> 3552.98] Ways -[3552.98 --> 3553.20] It's -[3553.20 --> 3553.48] Kind -[3553.48 --> 3553.60] Of -[3553.60 --> 3553.78] Like -[3553.78 --> 3554.02] A -[3554.02 --> 3554.38] Term -[3554.38 --> 3554.64] Of -[3554.64 --> 3555.36] Endearment -[3555.36 --> 3555.82] Right -[3555.82 --> 3555.98] Like -[3555.98 --> 3556.22] A -[3556.22 --> 3556.70] Parent -[3556.70 --> 3557.46] Speaking -[3557.46 --> 3557.84] To -[3557.84 --> 3558.06] Their -[3558.06 --> 3558.88] Child -[3558.88 --> 3559.22] Right -[3559.22 --> 3559.78] Little -[3559.78 --> 3560.42] Flock -[3560.42 --> 3560.72] Is -[3560.72 --> 3561.44] The -[3561.44 --> 3561.92] True -[3561.92 --> 3562.22] And -[3562.22 --> 3562.58] Better -[3562.58 --> 3563.12] Shepherd -[3563.12 --> 3563.72] Calling -[3563.72 --> 3564.10] Us -[3564.10 --> 3564.36] By -[3564.36 --> 3564.72] Name -[3564.72 --> 3565.86] And -[3565.86 --> 3566.02] His -[3566.02 --> 3566.46] Name -[3566.46 --> 3566.76] For -[3566.76 --> 3567.10] Us -[3567.10 --> 3567.64] Reveals -[3567.64 --> 3567.90] In -[3567.90 --> 3568.34] Love -[3568.34 --> 3569.00] And -[3569.00 --> 3569.54] Affection -[3569.54 --> 3570.86] But -[3570.86 --> 3571.08] It's -[3571.08 --> 3571.52] Actually -[3571.52 --> 3572.10] More -[3572.10 --> 3572.50] Than -[3572.50 --> 3572.86] Just -[3572.86 --> 3573.12] A -[3573.12 --> 3573.40] Pet -[3573.40 --> 3573.82] Name -[3573.82 --> 3574.98] A -[3574.98 --> 3575.86] Hypocorism -[3575.86 --> 3577.46] There's -[3577.46 --> 3577.94] A -[3577.94 --> 3578.12] New -[3578.12 --> 3578.48] Testament -[3578.48 --> 3578.98] Scholar -[3578.98 --> 3579.20] Her -[3579.20 --> 3579.44] Name -[3579.44 --> 3579.70] Is -[3579.70 --> 3580.48] Sarah -[3580.48 --> 3581.10] Harris -[3581.10 --> 3581.76] And -[3581.76 --> 3582.04] She's -[3582.04 --> 3582.20] From -[3582.20 --> 3582.66] Auckland -[3582.66 --> 3583.30] New -[3583.30 --> 3583.56] Zealand -[3583.56 --> 3583.76] And -[3583.76 --> 3583.88] In -[3583.88 --> 3584.60] 2011 -[3584.60 --> 3585.14] She -[3585.14 --> 3585.42] Wrote -[3585.42 --> 3585.68] A -[3585.68 --> 3586.32] Ph.D. -[3586.44 --> 3586.86] Thesis -[3586.86 --> 3588.26] And -[3588.26 --> 3588.40] Her -[3588.40 --> 3588.86] Ph.D. -[3588.96 --> 3589.24] Thesis -[3589.24 --> 3589.64] Was -[3589.64 --> 3590.06] Eventually -[3590.06 --> 3590.60] Published -[3590.60 --> 3590.76] And -[3590.76 --> 3590.92] It's -[3590.92 --> 3591.08] On -[3591.08 --> 3591.22] The -[3591.22 --> 3592.06] Shepherd -[3592.06 --> 3592.94] Themes -[3592.94 --> 3594.30] Of -[3594.30 --> 3594.90] The -[3594.90 --> 3595.22] Luke -[3595.22 --> 3595.78] Acts -[3595.78 --> 3597.38] Narrative -[3597.38 --> 3597.58] So -[3597.58 --> 3597.84] The -[3597.84 --> 3598.02] Book -[3598.02 --> 3598.18] Of -[3598.18 --> 3598.46] Luke -[3598.46 --> 3598.96] And -[3598.96 --> 3599.20] The -[3599.20 --> 3599.52] Book -[3599.52 --> 3599.64] Of -[3599.64 --> 3599.94] Acts -[3599.94 --> 3600.10] Were -[3600.10 --> 3600.30] Written -[3600.30 --> 3600.48] By -[3600.48 --> 3600.60] The -[3600.60 --> 3600.78] Same -[3600.78 --> 3601.36] Person -[3601.36 --> 3601.58] By -[3601.58 --> 3601.86] Luke -[3601.86 --> 3602.58] And -[3602.58 --> 3602.84] There -[3602.84 --> 3602.98] Are -[3602.98 --> 3603.32] Themes -[3603.32 --> 3603.46] That -[3603.46 --> 3603.56] Are -[3603.56 --> 3603.74] Shared -[3603.74 --> 3604.06] Between -[3604.06 --> 3604.28] Them -[3604.28 --> 3604.52] And -[3604.52 --> 3604.78] She -[3604.78 --> 3605.80] Surveys -[3605.80 --> 3606.08] The -[3606.08 --> 3606.58] Shepherd -[3606.58 --> 3607.26] Themes -[3607.26 --> 3607.52] In -[3607.52 --> 3607.72] Her -[3607.72 --> 3608.66] Ph.D. -[3608.66 --> 3608.90] She -[3608.90 --> 3609.46] Surveys -[3609.46 --> 3609.70] This -[3609.70 --> 3610.18] Image -[3610.18 --> 3610.48] Little -[3610.48 --> 3611.22] Flock -[3611.22 --> 3611.88] And -[3611.88 --> 3612.00] Then -[3612.00 --> 3612.18] With -[3612.18 --> 3612.36] A -[3612.36 --> 3612.60] Few -[3612.60 --> 3613.00] Others -[3613.00 --> 3613.34] In -[3613.34 --> 3613.48] The -[3613.48 --> 3613.84] History -[3613.84 --> 3614.10] Of -[3614.10 --> 3615.30] Interpretation -[3615.30 --> 3615.86] Applies -[3615.86 --> 3616.06] It -[3616.06 --> 3616.36] Back -[3616.36 --> 3616.80] To -[3616.80 --> 3617.60] Get -[3617.60 --> 3617.92] This -[3617.92 --> 3619.26] Ezekiel -[3619.26 --> 3620.08] 34 -[3620.08 --> 3621.74] She -[3621.74 --> 3622.06] Says -[3622.06 --> 3622.24] That -[3622.24 --> 3622.50] Luke -[3622.50 --> 3622.74] Has -[3622.74 --> 3623.46] Ezekiel -[3623.46 --> 3624.24] 34 -[3624.24 --> 3624.56] In -[3624.56 --> 3624.74] Mind -[3624.74 --> 3624.92] Now -[3624.92 --> 3625.30] If -[3625.30 --> 3625.42] That -[3625.42 --> 3625.66] Doesn't -[3625.66 --> 3625.82] Mean -[3625.82 --> 3626.08] Much -[3626.08 --> 3626.26] To -[3626.26 --> 3626.46] You -[3626.46 --> 3626.80] Hear -[3626.80 --> 3627.12] This -[3627.12 --> 3627.74] Ezekiel -[3627.74 --> 3627.96] Is -[3627.96 --> 3628.12] A -[3628.12 --> 3628.50] Prophet -[3628.50 --> 3629.62] In -[3629.62 --> 3629.84] The -[3629.84 --> 3630.46] 6th -[3630.46 --> 3630.98] Century -[3630.98 --> 3631.96] BC -[3631.96 --> 3632.82] So -[3632.82 --> 3633.04] This -[3633.04 --> 3633.28] Is -[3633.28 --> 3633.48] You -[3633.48 --> 3633.58] Know -[3633.58 --> 3634.70] 600 -[3634.70 --> 3635.32] 700 -[3635.32 --> 3636.08] Years -[3636.08 --> 3636.50] Before -[3636.50 --> 3636.92] What -[3636.92 --> 3637.08] We -[3637.08 --> 3637.24] Are -[3637.24 --> 3637.88] Reading -[3637.88 --> 3638.34] Here -[3638.34 --> 3639.46] A -[3639.46 --> 3639.76] Prophet -[3639.76 --> 3639.98] Who -[3639.98 --> 3640.16] Is -[3640.16 --> 3640.54] Living -[3640.54 --> 3641.00] In -[3641.00 --> 3642.08] Israel -[3642.08 --> 3642.46] The -[3642.46 --> 3643.30] Northwestern -[3643.30 --> 3643.62] Part -[3643.62 --> 3643.92] Of -[3643.92 --> 3644.66] Israel -[3644.66 --> 3644.90] In -[3644.90 --> 3645.02] The -[3645.02 --> 3645.14] Sort -[3645.14 --> 3645.22] Of -[3645.22 --> 3645.50] Modern -[3645.50 --> 3645.88] Day -[3645.88 --> 3646.16] Era -[3646.16 --> 3646.34] Of -[3646.34 --> 3646.94] Tel Aviv -[3646.94 --> 3648.48] While -[3648.48 --> 3649.12] While -[3649.12 --> 3649.48] The -[3649.48 --> 3650.04] Israelites -[3650.04 --> 3650.68] Are -[3650.68 --> 3651.36] Entering -[3651.36 --> 3651.72] Into -[3651.72 --> 3652.06] And -[3652.06 --> 3652.40] Being -[3652.40 --> 3652.94] Carried -[3652.94 --> 3653.34] Out -[3653.34 --> 3653.58] In -[3653.58 --> 3654.20] Babylonian -[3654.20 --> 3654.74] Captivity -[3654.74 --> 3655.00] And -[3655.00 --> 3655.20] Then -[3655.20 --> 3656.04] Exile -[3656.04 --> 3657.08] And -[3657.08 --> 3657.34] His -[3657.34 --> 3657.92] Words -[3657.92 --> 3658.74] Ezekiel -[3658.74 --> 3658.92] Is -[3658.92 --> 3659.14] Used -[3659.14 --> 3659.34] By -[3659.34 --> 3659.68] God -[3659.68 --> 3659.94] To -[3659.94 --> 3660.50] Give -[3660.50 --> 3660.74] The -[3660.74 --> 3661.34] Reason -[3661.34 --> 3661.86] To -[3661.86 --> 3662.02] The -[3662.02 --> 3662.38] People -[3662.38 --> 3662.70] For -[3662.70 --> 3662.98] Why -[3662.98 --> 3663.18] They -[3663.18 --> 3663.34] Are -[3663.34 --> 3663.48] In -[3663.48 --> 3663.88] Exile -[3663.88 --> 3664.12] And -[3664.12 --> 3664.66] Eventually -[3664.66 --> 3665.44] To -[3665.44 --> 3665.66] Give -[3665.66 --> 3665.96] Them -[3665.96 --> 3666.50] Hope -[3666.50 --> 3666.82] For -[3666.82 --> 3666.98] The -[3666.98 --> 3667.56] Restoration -[3667.56 --> 3668.14] And -[3668.14 --> 3668.26] The -[3668.26 --> 3668.60] Return -[3668.60 --> 3668.78] Of -[3668.78 --> 3668.90] The -[3668.90 --> 3669.20] People -[3669.20 --> 3670.44] Now -[3670.44 --> 3670.56] In -[3670.56 --> 3670.86] Chapter -[3670.86 --> 3671.64] 34 -[3671.64 --> 3673.66] Ezekiel -[3673.66 --> 3674.68] Goes -[3674.68 --> 3675.02] Into -[3675.02 --> 3675.42] This -[3675.42 --> 3676.16] Long -[3676.16 --> 3677.22] And -[3677.22 --> 3678.04] Scathing -[3678.04 --> 3678.54] Really -[3678.54 --> 3680.14] Report -[3680.14 --> 3680.86] About -[3680.86 --> 3682.00] The -[3682.00 --> 3682.48] Leaders -[3682.48 --> 3682.76] In -[3682.76 --> 3683.22] Israel -[3683.22 --> 3683.70] He -[3683.70 --> 3684.02] Writes -[3684.02 --> 3684.62] Woe -[3684.62 --> 3684.82] To -[3684.82 --> 3685.14] You -[3685.14 --> 3685.84] Shepherds -[3685.84 --> 3686.40] Of -[3686.40 --> 3686.94] Israel -[3686.94 --> 3688.16] So -[3688.16 --> 3688.40] God -[3688.40 --> 3688.42] God -[3688.42 --> 3688.58] Is -[3688.58 --> 3688.98] Calling -[3688.98 --> 3689.24] The -[3689.24 --> 3689.84] Shepherds -[3689.84 --> 3690.02] The -[3690.02 --> 3690.56] Religious -[3690.56 --> 3690.76] And -[3690.76 --> 3691.22] Political -[3691.22 --> 3691.96] Leaders -[3691.96 --> 3692.18] Of -[3692.18 --> 3692.30] The -[3692.30 --> 3692.58] People -[3692.58 --> 3692.94] Not -[3692.94 --> 3693.12] The -[3693.12 --> 3693.54] Actual -[3693.54 --> 3694.08] Shepherds -[3694.08 --> 3694.36] Caring -[3694.36 --> 3694.52] For -[3694.52 --> 3694.74] Sheep -[3694.74 --> 3694.84] In -[3694.84 --> 3694.96] The -[3694.96 --> 3695.24] Fields -[3695.24 --> 3695.74] But -[3695.74 --> 3696.04] It's -[3696.04 --> 3696.26] A -[3696.26 --> 3696.72] Metaphor -[3696.72 --> 3697.38] He's -[3697.38 --> 3697.76] Calling -[3697.76 --> 3698.20] These -[3698.20 --> 3698.82] Shepherds -[3698.82 --> 3699.06] These -[3699.06 --> 3699.54] Leaders -[3699.54 --> 3700.36] To -[3700.36 --> 3700.88] Account -[3700.88 --> 3701.42] For -[3701.42 --> 3701.64] Their -[3701.64 --> 3702.24] Failure -[3702.24 --> 3702.48] To -[3702.48 --> 3703.12] Provide -[3703.12 --> 3703.32] For -[3703.32 --> 3703.46] The -[3703.46 --> 3703.82] People -[3703.82 --> 3705.32] Right -[3705.32 --> 3705.72] He says -[3705.72 --> 3705.86] To -[3705.86 --> 3706.00] The -[3706.00 --> 3706.42] Shepherds -[3706.42 --> 3706.86] You -[3706.86 --> 3707.10] Eat -[3707.10 --> 3707.24] All -[3707.24 --> 3707.36] The -[3707.36 --> 3707.68] Fancy -[3707.68 --> 3708.14] Foods -[3708.14 --> 3708.38] You -[3708.38 --> 3708.64] Take -[3708.64 --> 3708.80] All -[3708.80 --> 3708.94] The -[3708.94 --> 3709.14] Good -[3709.14 --> 3709.68] Clothes -[3709.68 --> 3709.88] And -[3709.88 --> 3710.00] You -[3710.00 --> 3710.26] Take -[3710.26 --> 3710.48] The -[3710.48 --> 3711.04] Top -[3711.04 --> 3711.40] Shelf -[3711.40 --> 3711.86] Stuff -[3711.86 --> 3712.34] For -[3712.34 --> 3712.78] Yourself -[3712.78 --> 3712.96] Now -[3712.96 --> 3713.10] I'm -[3713.10 --> 3713.68] Paraphrasing -[3713.68 --> 3713.88] But -[3713.88 --> 3714.08] That's -[3714.08 --> 3714.24] The -[3714.24 --> 3714.46] Gist -[3714.46 --> 3714.60] Of -[3714.60 --> 3714.74] It -[3714.74 --> 3715.16] And -[3715.16 --> 3715.28] He -[3715.28 --> 3715.56] Says -[3715.56 --> 3715.76] In -[3715.76 --> 3716.20] Ezekiel -[3716.20 --> 3716.62] 34 -[3716.62 --> 3716.92] Verse -[3716.92 --> 3717.16] 4 -[3717.16 --> 3717.62] You -[3717.62 --> 3717.94] Have -[3717.94 --> 3718.36] Ruled -[3718.36 --> 3718.66] Them -[3718.66 --> 3719.54] Harshly -[3719.54 --> 3720.40] And -[3720.40 --> 3721.02] Brutally -[3721.02 --> 3722.78] And -[3722.78 --> 3722.92] So -[3722.92 --> 3723.16] God -[3723.16 --> 3723.48] Says -[3723.48 --> 3723.78] To -[3723.78 --> 3724.00] Them -[3724.00 --> 3724.46] I -[3724.46 --> 3724.62] Will -[3724.62 --> 3724.94] Take -[3724.94 --> 3725.08] It -[3725.08 --> 3725.34] From -[3725.34 --> 3725.56] You -[3725.56 --> 3726.30] I -[3726.30 --> 3726.44] Will -[3726.44 --> 3726.82] Remove -[3726.82 --> 3727.04] You -[3727.04 --> 3727.26] From -[3727.26 --> 3727.38] Your -[3727.38 --> 3727.70] Position -[3727.70 --> 3727.88] Of -[3727.88 --> 3728.26] Power -[3728.26 --> 3728.82] And -[3728.82 --> 3729.44] Privilege -[3729.44 --> 3730.62] And -[3730.62 --> 3730.84] Then -[3730.84 --> 3731.16] God -[3731.16 --> 3731.56] Says -[3731.56 --> 3732.30] I -[3732.30 --> 3732.56] Will -[3732.56 --> 3733.26] Rescue -[3733.26 --> 3733.68] My -[3733.68 --> 3734.34] Flock -[3734.34 --> 3734.72] From -[3734.72 --> 3734.90] The -[3734.90 --> 3735.46] Shepherds -[3735.46 --> 3736.52] Mouths -[3736.52 --> 3737.44] Now -[3737.44 --> 3737.62] That's -[3737.62 --> 3737.72] A -[3737.72 --> 3737.88] Really -[3737.88 --> 3739.06] Scathing -[3739.06 --> 3739.78] Indictment -[3739.78 --> 3740.46] Right -[3740.46 --> 3740.78] Because -[3740.78 --> 3742.14] Throughout -[3742.14 --> 3742.42] The -[3742.42 --> 3742.74] Bible -[3742.74 --> 3743.08] From -[3743.08 --> 3743.46] Old -[3743.46 --> 3743.80] Testament -[3743.80 --> 3744.20] Into -[3744.20 --> 3744.50] New -[3744.50 --> 3744.86] There's -[3744.86 --> 3745.02] An -[3745.02 --> 3745.44] Image -[3745.44 --> 3745.68] Of -[3745.68 --> 3746.52] Wolves -[3746.52 --> 3746.90] Who -[3746.90 --> 3747.12] Will -[3747.12 --> 3747.40] Come -[3747.40 --> 3747.64] In -[3747.64 --> 3747.90] As -[3747.90 --> 3748.30] Leaders -[3748.30 --> 3748.66] And -[3748.66 --> 3749.14] Steal -[3749.14 --> 3749.46] People -[3749.46 --> 3749.74] Away -[3749.74 --> 3749.94] From -[3749.94 --> 3750.06] The -[3750.06 --> 3750.36] Truth -[3750.36 --> 3751.92] Ezekiel -[3751.92 --> 3752.10] Is -[3752.10 --> 3752.34] Saying -[3752.34 --> 3752.54] That -[3752.54 --> 3752.80] These -[3752.80 --> 3753.46] Shepherds -[3753.46 --> 3753.68] Have -[3753.68 --> 3754.16] Become -[3754.16 --> 3754.50] As -[3754.50 --> 3755.38] Wolves -[3755.38 --> 3756.30] To -[3756.30 --> 3756.48] Their -[3756.48 --> 3756.86] People -[3756.86 --> 3758.02] And -[3758.02 --> 3758.26] God -[3758.26 --> 3758.50] Won't -[3758.50 --> 3758.88] Stand -[3758.88 --> 3759.10] For -[3759.10 --> 3759.38] That -[3759.38 --> 3761.34] And -[3761.34 --> 3761.48] So -[3761.48 --> 3761.62] We -[3761.62 --> 3761.76] Can -[3761.76 --> 3762.04] Read -[3762.04 --> 3762.80] In -[3762.80 --> 3763.22] Ezekiel -[3763.22 --> 3763.76] 34 -[3763.76 --> 3765.74] God -[3765.74 --> 3765.98] Gives -[3765.98 --> 3766.24] This -[3766.24 --> 3766.78] Promise -[3766.78 --> 3768.48] For -[3768.48 --> 3768.72] This -[3768.72 --> 3768.94] Is -[3768.94 --> 3769.14] What -[3769.14 --> 3769.34] The -[3769.34 --> 3769.68] Sovereign -[3769.68 --> 3769.88] Lord -[3769.88 --> 3770.32] Says -[3770.32 --> 3770.80] I -[3770.80 --> 3771.66] Myself -[3771.66 --> 3771.90] Will -[3771.90 --> 3772.36] Search -[3772.36 --> 3772.58] For -[3772.58 --> 3772.80] My -[3772.80 --> 3773.28] Sheep -[3773.28 --> 3773.48] And -[3773.48 --> 3773.66] Look -[3773.66 --> 3774.02] After -[3774.02 --> 3774.28] Them -[3774.28 --> 3775.10] And -[3775.10 --> 3775.24] As -[3775.24 --> 3775.40] A -[3775.40 --> 3775.72] Shepherd -[3775.72 --> 3776.02] Looks -[3776.02 --> 3776.40] After -[3776.40 --> 3776.66] His -[3776.66 --> 3777.08] Scattered -[3777.08 --> 3777.54] Flock -[3777.54 --> 3777.74] When -[3777.74 --> 3777.88] He -[3777.88 --> 3778.06] Is -[3778.06 --> 3778.32] With -[3778.32 --> 3778.50] Them -[3778.50 --> 3778.82] So -[3778.82 --> 3779.24] I -[3779.24 --> 3779.44] Will -[3779.44 --> 3779.66] Look -[3779.66 --> 3780.06] After -[3780.06 --> 3780.66] My -[3780.66 --> 3781.08] Sheep -[3781.08 --> 3781.86] I -[3781.86 --> 3782.06] Will -[3782.06 --> 3782.48] Rescue -[3782.48 --> 3782.74] Them -[3782.74 --> 3782.92] From -[3782.92 --> 3783.12] All -[3783.12 --> 3783.28] The -[3783.28 --> 3783.68] Places -[3783.68 --> 3783.88] Where -[3783.88 --> 3784.00] They -[3784.00 --> 3784.18] Were -[3784.18 --> 3784.66] Scattered -[3784.66 --> 3785.16] On -[3785.16 --> 3785.28] The -[3785.28 --> 3785.52] Day -[3785.52 --> 3785.70] Of -[3785.70 --> 3786.22] Clouds -[3786.22 --> 3786.34] And -[3786.34 --> 3786.68] Darkness -[3786.68 --> 3786.96] I -[3786.96 --> 3787.14] Will -[3787.14 --> 3787.38] Bring -[3787.38 --> 3787.56] Them -[3787.56 --> 3787.84] Out -[3787.84 --> 3788.08] From -[3788.08 --> 3788.22] The -[3788.22 --> 3788.58] Nations -[3788.58 --> 3788.82] And -[3788.82 --> 3789.08] Gather -[3789.08 --> 3789.28] Them -[3789.28 --> 3789.44] From -[3789.44 --> 3789.58] The -[3789.58 --> 3790.00] Countries -[3790.00 --> 3790.42] And -[3790.42 --> 3790.64] I -[3790.64 --> 3790.82] Will -[3790.82 --> 3791.12] Bring -[3791.12 --> 3791.44] Them -[3791.44 --> 3791.78] Into -[3791.78 --> 3792.06] Their -[3792.06 --> 3792.30] Own -[3792.30 --> 3792.68] Land -[3792.68 --> 3793.72] I -[3793.72 --> 3793.92] Will -[3793.92 --> 3794.56] Pasture -[3794.56 --> 3794.86] Them -[3794.86 --> 3795.04] On -[3795.04 --> 3795.18] The -[3795.18 --> 3795.50] Mountains -[3795.50 --> 3795.76] Of -[3795.76 --> 3796.06] Israel -[3796.06 --> 3796.30] And -[3796.30 --> 3796.40] In -[3796.40 --> 3796.50] The -[3796.50 --> 3797.02] Ravines -[3797.02 --> 3797.18] And -[3797.18 --> 3797.28] In -[3797.28 --> 3797.42] All -[3797.42 --> 3797.58] The -[3797.58 --> 3797.98] Settlements -[3797.98 --> 3798.14] Of -[3798.14 --> 3798.24] The -[3798.24 --> 3798.48] Land -[3798.48 --> 3799.10] I -[3799.10 --> 3799.36] Will -[3799.36 --> 3799.76] Tend -[3799.76 --> 3800.04] Them -[3800.04 --> 3800.20] In -[3800.20 --> 3800.32] A -[3800.32 --> 3800.56] Good -[3800.56 --> 3801.16] Pasture -[3801.16 --> 3801.58] And -[3801.58 --> 3801.70] The -[3801.70 --> 3802.00] Mountain -[3802.00 --> 3802.38] Heights -[3802.38 --> 3802.56] Of -[3802.56 --> 3802.94] Israel -[3802.94 --> 3803.20] Will -[3803.20 --> 3803.34] Be -[3803.34 --> 3803.56] Their -[3803.56 --> 3804.02] Grazing -[3804.02 --> 3804.42] Land -[3804.42 --> 3805.04] There -[3805.04 --> 3805.24] They -[3805.24 --> 3805.40] Will -[3805.40 --> 3805.66] Lie -[3805.66 --> 3806.00] Down -[3806.00 --> 3806.22] In -[3806.22 --> 3806.42] Good -[3806.42 --> 3806.84] Grazing -[3806.84 --> 3807.12] Land -[3807.12 --> 3807.46] There -[3807.46 --> 3807.66] They -[3807.66 --> 3807.82] Will -[3807.82 --> 3808.22] Feed -[3808.22 --> 3808.42] In -[3808.42 --> 3808.64] Rich -[3808.64 --> 3809.12] Pasture -[3809.12 --> 3809.28] On -[3809.28 --> 3809.38] The -[3809.38 --> 3809.66] Mountains -[3809.66 --> 3809.84] Of -[3809.84 --> 3810.20] Israel -[3810.20 --> 3810.82] I -[3810.82 --> 3811.52] Myself -[3811.52 --> 3811.74] Will -[3811.74 --> 3812.04] Tend -[3812.04 --> 3812.30] My -[3812.30 --> 3812.62] Sheep -[3812.62 --> 3812.76] And -[3812.76 --> 3813.00] Have -[3813.00 --> 3813.22] Them -[3813.22 --> 3813.50] Lie -[3813.50 --> 3813.94] Down -[3813.94 --> 3814.44] Declares -[3814.44 --> 3814.68] The -[3814.68 --> 3815.04] Sovereign -[3815.04 --> 3815.26] Lord -[3815.26 --> 3815.94] I -[3815.94 --> 3816.14] Will -[3816.14 --> 3816.50] Search -[3816.50 --> 3816.66] For -[3816.66 --> 3816.82] The -[3816.82 --> 3817.22] Lost -[3817.22 --> 3817.46] And -[3817.46 --> 3817.66] Bring -[3817.66 --> 3818.40] Back -[3818.40 --> 3818.70] The -[3818.70 --> 3819.04] Strays -[3819.04 --> 3819.64] I -[3819.64 --> 3819.82] Will -[3819.82 --> 3820.16] Bind -[3820.16 --> 3820.34] Up -[3820.34 --> 3820.50] The -[3820.50 --> 3820.88] Injured -[3820.88 --> 3821.06] And -[3821.06 --> 3821.56] Strengthen -[3821.56 --> 3821.68] The -[3821.68 --> 3821.94] Weak -[3821.94 --> 3822.40] But -[3822.40 --> 3822.58] The -[3822.58 --> 3823.00] Sleek -[3823.00 --> 3823.20] And -[3823.20 --> 3823.34] The -[3823.34 --> 3823.76] Strong -[3823.76 --> 3824.00] I -[3824.00 --> 3824.18] Will -[3824.18 --> 3824.64] Destroy -[3824.64 --> 3825.14] I -[3825.14 --> 3825.36] Will -[3825.36 --> 3825.72] Shepherd -[3825.72 --> 3825.98] The -[3825.98 --> 3826.40] Flock -[3826.40 --> 3826.94] With -[3826.94 --> 3827.70] Justice -[3827.70 --> 3828.30] Then -[3828.30 --> 3828.62] Verse -[3828.62 --> 3829.10] 31 -[3829.10 --> 3830.36] You -[3830.36 --> 3830.94] Are -[3830.94 --> 3831.44] My -[3831.44 --> 3832.36] Sheep -[3832.36 --> 3833.36] The -[3833.36 --> 3833.78] Sheep -[3833.78 --> 3834.00] Of -[3834.00 --> 3834.20] My -[3834.20 --> 3834.86] Pasture -[3834.86 --> 3835.38] And -[3839.38 --> 3844.38] The -[3844.38 --> 3844.40] Sarah -[3844.40 --> 3844.76] Harris -[3844.76 --> 3845.60] Contention -[3845.60 --> 3846.82] Is -[3846.82 --> 3847.02] That -[3847.02 --> 3847.44] This -[3847.44 --> 3848.16] Text -[3848.16 --> 3849.00] This -[3849.00 --> 3849.66] Image -[3849.66 --> 3850.18] Is -[3850.18 --> 3850.80] Behind -[3850.80 --> 3851.48] Jesus -[3851.48 --> 3852.12] Use -[3852.12 --> 3852.38] Of -[3852.38 --> 3852.52] The -[3852.52 --> 3852.92] Words -[3852.92 --> 3853.30] Little -[3853.30 --> 3853.94] Flock -[3853.94 --> 3854.22] In -[3854.22 --> 3854.42] Luke -[3854.42 --> 3854.88] 12 -[3854.88 --> 3855.66] It -[3855.66 --> 3856.08] Behind -[3856.08 --> 3856.60] Luke's -[3856.60 --> 3857.12] Recording -[3857.12 --> 3857.38] Of -[3857.38 --> 3857.64] Them -[3857.64 --> 3858.48] Such -[3858.48 --> 3858.76] That -[3858.76 --> 3858.96] When -[3858.96 --> 3859.38] Jesus -[3859.38 --> 3860.24] Speaks -[3860.24 --> 3860.92] These -[3860.92 --> 3861.46] Words -[3861.46 --> 3861.66] And -[3861.66 --> 3862.24] Calls -[3862.24 --> 3862.52] His -[3862.52 --> 3863.28] Disciples -[3863.28 --> 3863.84] Little -[3863.84 --> 3864.38] Flocks -[3864.38 --> 3864.74] Our -[3864.74 --> 3865.38] Mind -[3865.38 --> 3865.64] Should -[3865.64 --> 3866.56] Rush -[3866.56 --> 3866.88] To -[3866.88 --> 3867.06] The -[3867.06 --> 3867.54] Image -[3867.54 --> 3867.76] Of -[3867.76 --> 3868.28] Ezekiel -[3868.28 --> 3868.92] 34 -[3868.92 --> 3869.42] And -[3869.42 --> 3869.54] To -[3869.54 --> 3869.68] The -[3869.68 --> 3870.10] Shepherd -[3870.10 --> 3870.62] Who -[3870.62 --> 3870.78] Is -[3870.78 --> 3871.24] Presented -[3871.24 --> 3871.62] There -[3871.62 --> 3872.40] Right -[3872.40 --> 3872.52] That -[3872.52 --> 3873.22] Jesus -[3873.22 --> 3874.00] Is -[3874.00 --> 3874.24] The -[3874.24 --> 3874.60] True -[3874.60 --> 3874.88] And -[3874.88 --> 3875.16] Better -[3875.16 --> 3875.80] Shepherd -[3875.80 --> 3876.10] Who -[3876.10 --> 3876.46] God -[3876.46 --> 3877.16] Promised -[3877.16 --> 3877.66] To -[3877.66 --> 3877.88] His -[3877.88 --> 3878.26] People -[3878.26 --> 3878.64] As -[3878.64 --> 3878.84] They -[3878.84 --> 3879.04] Were -[3879.04 --> 3879.46] In -[3879.46 --> 3880.04] Captivity -[3880.04 --> 3880.56] And -[3880.56 --> 3880.72] In -[3880.72 --> 3881.16] Exile -[3881.16 --> 3881.36] That -[3881.36 --> 3881.90] Jesus -[3881.90 --> 3882.50] Is -[3882.50 --> 3882.70] The -[3882.70 --> 3882.98] True -[3882.98 --> 3883.16] And -[3883.16 --> 3883.36] Better -[3883.36 --> 3883.74] Leader -[3883.74 --> 3883.94] Who -[3883.94 --> 3884.18] Both -[3884.18 --> 3884.90] Restores -[3884.90 --> 3885.44] And -[3885.44 --> 3885.96] Saves -[3885.96 --> 3886.22] His -[3886.22 --> 3886.64] People -[3886.64 --> 3887.56] Right -[3887.56 --> 3887.72] With -[3887.72 --> 3887.90] This -[3887.90 --> 3888.64] Moniker -[3888.64 --> 3889.20] Little -[3889.20 --> 3889.68] Flock -[3889.68 --> 3890.10] Jesus -[3890.10 --> 3890.50] Is -[3890.50 --> 3890.98] Telling -[3890.98 --> 3891.24] Us -[3891.24 --> 3891.60] Something -[3891.60 --> 3892.02] About -[3892.02 --> 3892.56] Himself -[3892.56 --> 3893.62] And -[3893.62 --> 3893.88] His -[3893.88 --> 3894.14] Work -[3894.14 --> 3894.32] In -[3894.32 --> 3894.44] The -[3894.44 --> 3894.74] World -[3894.74 --> 3895.70] Right -[3895.70 --> 3895.86] His -[3895.88 --> 3896.20] Mission -[3896.20 --> 3896.66] To -[3896.66 --> 3897.26] And -[3897.26 --> 3897.66] For -[3897.66 --> 3897.96] And -[3897.96 --> 3898.38] In -[3898.38 --> 3898.72] The -[3898.72 --> 3899.06] World -[3899.06 --> 3900.24] Jesus -[3900.24 --> 3900.56] Is -[3900.56 --> 3900.88] Telling -[3900.88 --> 3901.04] Us -[3901.04 --> 3901.26] Something -[3901.26 --> 3901.52] About -[3901.52 --> 3902.44] Ourselves -[3902.44 --> 3902.94] About -[3902.94 --> 3903.14] His -[3903.14 --> 3903.88] Disciples -[3903.88 --> 3904.44] About -[3904.44 --> 3904.80] Those -[3904.80 --> 3904.98] Who -[3904.98 --> 3905.42] Believe -[3905.42 --> 3905.62] In -[3905.62 --> 3905.88] Him -[3905.88 --> 3906.06] And -[3906.06 --> 3906.36] Call -[3906.36 --> 3906.62] Him -[3906.62 --> 3907.26] Lord -[3907.26 --> 3907.68] Right -[3907.68 --> 3908.02] In -[3908.02 --> 3908.50] John's -[3908.50 --> 3909.06] Gospel -[3909.06 --> 3910.46] Jesus -[3910.46 --> 3911.14] Says -[3911.14 --> 3911.76] I -[3911.76 --> 3911.94] Am -[3911.94 --> 3912.08] The -[3912.08 --> 3912.28] Good -[3912.28 --> 3912.62] Shepherd -[3912.62 --> 3913.36] I -[3913.36 --> 3913.56] Know -[3913.56 --> 3913.84] My -[3913.84 --> 3914.24] Sheep -[3914.24 --> 3914.38] And -[3914.38 --> 3914.58] My -[3914.58 --> 3915.02] Sheep -[3915.02 --> 3915.22] Know -[3915.22 --> 3915.42] My -[3915.42 --> 3915.92] Voice -[3915.92 --> 3917.54] So -[3917.54 --> 3917.76] Who -[3917.76 --> 3917.98] Is -[3917.98 --> 3918.40] Jesus -[3918.40 --> 3918.78] As -[3918.78 --> 3918.90] We -[3918.90 --> 3919.10] See -[3919.10 --> 3919.22] It -[3919.22 --> 3919.44] Here -[3919.44 --> 3919.98] In -[3919.98 --> 3920.50] Luke -[3920.50 --> 3920.94] 12 -[3920.94 --> 3922.20] Right -[3922.20 --> 3922.38] He -[3922.38 --> 3922.60] Is -[3922.60 --> 3922.76] The -[3922.76 --> 3922.98] Good -[3922.98 --> 3923.42] Shepherd -[3923.42 --> 3924.02] Who -[3924.02 --> 3924.34] Lays -[3924.34 --> 3924.60] Down -[3924.60 --> 3924.82] His -[3924.82 --> 3925.12] Life -[3925.12 --> 3925.28] For -[3925.28 --> 3925.80] Sheep -[3925.80 --> 3927.08] Who -[3927.08 --> 3927.30] Is -[3927.30 --> 3927.72] Jesus -[3927.72 --> 3928.04] He -[3928.04 --> 3928.22] Is -[3928.22 --> 3928.40] The -[3928.40 --> 3928.74] Leader -[3928.74 --> 3929.32] Promised -[3929.32 --> 3929.56] To -[3929.56 --> 3930.00] Restore -[3930.00 --> 3930.20] The -[3930.20 --> 3930.62] People -[3930.62 --> 3931.30] Who -[3931.30 --> 3931.52] Is -[3931.52 --> 3931.92] Jesus -[3931.92 --> 3932.20] He -[3932.20 --> 3932.46] Is -[3932.46 --> 3932.62] The -[3932.62 --> 3932.86] One -[3932.86 --> 3933.14] Whom -[3933.14 --> 3933.42] God -[3933.42 --> 3933.74] Said -[3933.74 --> 3933.94] Would -[3933.94 --> 3934.84] Search -[3934.84 --> 3935.30] For -[3935.30 --> 3935.46] The -[3935.46 --> 3935.84] Lost -[3935.84 --> 3936.10] He -[3936.10 --> 3936.34] Is -[3936.34 --> 3936.50] The -[3936.50 --> 3936.74] One -[3936.74 --> 3936.92] Who -[3936.92 --> 3937.10] Would -[3937.10 --> 3937.74] Provide -[3937.74 --> 3938.52] Deep -[3938.52 --> 3939.24] Rest -[3939.24 --> 3939.82] For -[3939.82 --> 3940.00] His -[3940.00 --> 3940.40] People -[3940.40 --> 3940.72] He -[3940.72 --> 3940.74] He -[3940.74 --> 3941.00] Is -[3941.00 --> 3941.18] The -[3941.18 --> 3941.44] One -[3941.44 --> 3941.86] Who -[3941.86 --> 3942.04] Would -[3942.04 --> 3942.50] Provide -[3942.50 --> 3942.68] For -[3942.68 --> 3942.88] Them -[3942.88 --> 3943.10] As -[3943.10 --> 3943.28] They -[3943.28 --> 3943.76] Journey -[3943.76 --> 3944.28] Through -[3944.28 --> 3944.44] The -[3944.44 --> 3944.94] Wilderness -[3944.94 --> 3945.22] Of -[3945.22 --> 3945.70] Life -[3945.70 --> 3946.24] And -[3946.24 --> 3946.68] Faith -[3946.68 --> 3946.92] With -[3946.92 --> 3947.22] Him -[3947.22 --> 3947.82] He -[3947.82 --> 3948.08] Is -[3948.08 --> 3948.24] The -[3948.24 --> 3948.46] One -[3948.46 --> 3948.66] Who -[3948.66 --> 3948.82] Will -[3948.82 --> 3949.14] Provide -[3949.14 --> 3949.78] Strength -[3949.78 --> 3950.22] For -[3950.22 --> 3950.36] The -[3950.36 --> 3950.66] Weak -[3950.66 --> 3950.82] Who -[3950.82 --> 3950.96] Will -[3950.96 --> 3951.46] Bind -[3951.46 --> 3951.80] Up -[3951.80 --> 3952.28] The -[3952.28 --> 3952.80] Injured -[3952.80 --> 3953.34] He -[3953.34 --> 3953.92] Is -[3953.92 --> 3954.16] The -[3954.16 --> 3954.44] Good -[3954.44 --> 3954.88] Shepherd -[3954.88 --> 3955.94] And -[3955.94 --> 3956.08] If -[3956.08 --> 3956.24] You -[3956.24 --> 3956.42] Are -[3956.42 --> 3956.88] Blessed -[3956.88 --> 3957.20] To -[3957.20 --> 3957.44] Be -[3957.44 --> 3957.84] Called -[3957.84 --> 3958.26] Little -[3958.26 --> 3958.88] Flock -[3958.88 --> 3959.30] If -[3959.30 --> 3959.44] You -[3959.44 --> 3959.62] Are -[3959.62 --> 3960.02] Blessed -[3960.02 --> 3960.28] To -[3960.28 --> 3960.46] Be -[3960.46 --> 3960.86] Marked -[3960.86 --> 3961.34] Among -[3961.34 --> 3961.58] The -[3961.58 --> 3961.98] Elect -[3961.98 --> 3962.48] If -[3962.48 --> 3962.64] You -[3962.64 --> 3962.78] Are -[3962.78 --> 3963.12] Part -[3969.24 --> 3969.82] Is -[3969.82 --> 3970.26] Are -[3970.26 --> 3970.40] For -[3970.40 --> 3970.74] You -[3970.74 --> 3972.12] Right -[3972.12 --> 3972.30] His -[3972.30 --> 3972.80] Eternal -[3972.80 --> 3973.48] Sabbath -[3973.48 --> 3974.02] Rest -[3974.02 --> 3974.72] Blessings -[3974.72 --> 3974.94] Are -[3974.94 --> 3975.18] For -[3975.18 --> 3975.44] You -[3975.44 --> 3975.74] This -[3975.74 --> 3976.34] Savior -[3976.34 --> 3977.10] Is -[3977.10 --> 3977.86] Yours -[3977.86 --> 3978.78] If -[3978.78 --> 3978.96] You -[3978.96 --> 3979.48] Believe -[3979.48 --> 3979.96] With -[3979.96 --> 3980.30] Us -[3980.30 --> 3980.60] Here -[3980.60 --> 3980.80] That -[3980.80 --> 3981.18] Jesus -[3981.18 --> 3981.62] Lived -[3981.62 --> 3981.80] The -[3981.80 --> 3982.04] Life -[3982.04 --> 3982.24] You -[3982.24 --> 3982.46] Should -[3982.46 --> 3982.58] Have -[3982.58 --> 3982.84] Lived -[3982.84 --> 3983.22] And -[3983.22 --> 3983.36] The -[3983.36 --> 3983.60] Death -[3983.60 --> 3983.82] That -[3983.82 --> 3984.02] You -[3984.02 --> 3984.80] Deserved -[3984.80 --> 3985.00] As -[3985.00 --> 3985.14] A -[3985.14 --> 3985.40] Wrath -[3985.40 --> 3985.60] Of -[3985.60 --> 3985.82] God -[3985.82 --> 3986.04] For -[3986.04 --> 3986.34] Sin -[3986.34 --> 3986.82] If -[3986.82 --> 3986.96] You -[3986.96 --> 3987.54] Believe -[3987.54 --> 3987.88] And -[3987.88 --> 3988.04] If -[3988.04 --> 3988.16] You -[3988.16 --> 3988.56] Know -[3988.56 --> 3988.96] That -[3988.96 --> 3989.14] You -[3989.14 --> 3989.32] Are -[3989.32 --> 3989.54] More -[3989.54 --> 3990.10] Sinful -[3990.10 --> 3990.30] In -[3990.30 --> 3990.44] The -[3990.44 --> 3990.70] Eyes -[3990.70 --> 3990.84] Of -[3990.84 --> 3991.04] God -[3991.04 --> 3991.18] Than -[3991.18 --> 3991.30] You -[3991.30 --> 3991.42] Would -[3991.42 --> 3991.56] Ever -[3991.56 --> 3991.98] Dare -[3991.98 --> 3992.36] Admit -[3992.36 --> 3992.56] To -[3992.56 --> 3993.02] Yourself -[3993.02 --> 3993.20] Or -[3993.20 --> 3993.34] To -[3993.34 --> 3993.60] Anyone -[3993.60 --> 3993.84] Else -[3993.84 --> 3994.10] Around -[3994.10 --> 3994.24] You -[3994.24 --> 3994.64] And -[3994.64 --> 3995.06] Yet -[3995.06 --> 3995.84] Grace -[3995.84 --> 3996.32] Upon -[3996.32 --> 3997.14] Grace -[3997.14 --> 3997.64] That -[3997.64 --> 3997.80] You -[3997.80 --> 3997.98] Are -[3997.98 --> 3998.30] More -[3998.30 --> 3999.08] Loved -[3999.08 --> 3999.28] Than -[3999.28 --> 3999.40] You -[3999.40 --> 3999.54] Could -[3999.54 --> 4000.18] Ever -[4000.18 --> 4000.94] Imagine -[4000.94 --> 4001.66] Possible -[4001.66 --> 4001.96] If -[4001.96 --> 4002.10] You -[4002.10 --> 4002.60] Believe -[4002.60 --> 4002.94] This -[4002.94 --> 4003.48] Truth -[4003.48 --> 4003.78] Then -[4003.78 --> 4004.06] You -[4004.06 --> 4004.44] Are -[4004.44 --> 4004.84] Part -[4004.84 --> 4005.18] Of -[4005.18 --> 4005.44] His -[4005.44 --> 4005.98] Little -[4005.98 --> 4006.64] Flock -[4006.64 --> 4006.84] You -[4006.84 --> 4007.02] Are -[4007.02 --> 4007.38] Part -[4007.38 --> 4007.58] Of -[4007.58 --> 4007.82] His -[4007.82 --> 4008.56] Body -[4008.56 --> 4008.88] His -[4008.88 --> 4009.54] Family -[4009.54 --> 4010.06] You -[4010.06 --> 4010.34] Are -[4010.34 --> 4010.54] A -[4010.54 --> 4010.90] Child -[4010.90 --> 4011.16] Of -[4011.16 --> 4011.46] God -[4011.46 --> 4011.74] Because -[4011.74 --> 4011.88] Of -[4011.88 --> 4012.02] The -[4012.02 --> 4012.70] Love -[4012.70 --> 4013.16] The -[4013.16 --> 4013.52] Father -[4013.52 --> 4013.82] Has -[4013.82 --> 4014.24] Shown -[4014.24 --> 4014.54] You -[4014.54 --> 4015.92] And -[4015.92 --> 4016.12] So -[4016.12 --> 4016.92] Believing -[4016.92 --> 4017.72] This -[4017.72 --> 4019.12] Luke -[4019.12 --> 4019.62] Says -[4019.62 --> 4021.00] Your -[4023.20 --> 4027.20] He -[4027.20 --> 4029.64] Has -[4029.64 --> 4031.78] Been -[4031.78 --> 4032.44] Pleased -[4032.44 --> 4032.66] To -[4032.66 --> 4032.88] Give -[4032.88 --> 4033.04] You -[4033.04 --> 4033.36] What -[4033.36 --> 4034.90] Not -[4034.90 --> 4035.04] Just -[4035.04 --> 4035.18] A -[4035.18 --> 4035.32] Good -[4035.32 --> 4035.74] Life -[4035.74 --> 4037.36] Not -[4037.36 --> 4037.58] Just -[4037.58 --> 4038.04] Everything -[4038.04 --> 4038.20] You -[4038.20 --> 4038.32] Have -[4038.32 --> 4038.82] Wanted -[4038.82 --> 4039.78] The -[4039.78 --> 4040.24] Kingdom -[4040.24 --> 4041.72] That -[4041.72 --> 4041.80] Is -[4041.80 --> 4042.58] Everything -[4042.58 --> 4044.12] He -[4044.12 --> 4044.30] Has -[4044.30 --> 4044.44] Been -[4044.44 --> 4045.02] Pleased -[4045.02 --> 4045.46] To -[4045.46 --> 4045.78] Give -[4045.78 --> 4046.10] You -[4046.10 --> 4046.78] The -[4046.78 --> 4047.30] Kingdom -[4047.30 --> 4048.48] He -[4048.48 --> 4048.70] Has -[4048.70 --> 4048.96] Given -[4048.96 --> 4049.14] You -[4049.14 --> 4049.30] The -[4049.30 --> 4049.52] Whole -[4049.52 --> 4049.92] World -[4049.92 --> 4050.28] Because -[4050.28 --> 4050.52] The -[4050.52 --> 4050.76] Whole -[4050.76 --> 4051.16] World -[4051.16 --> 4051.36] Is -[4051.36 --> 4051.52] What -[4051.52 --> 4051.72] Jesus -[4051.72 --> 4052.16] Reigns -[4052.16 --> 4052.50] Over -[4052.50 --> 4053.76] That -[4053.76 --> 4053.92] Is -[4053.92 --> 4054.08] Who -[4054.08 --> 4054.32] He -[4054.32 --> 4054.76] Is -[4054.76 --> 4055.22] And -[4055.22 --> 4055.48] By -[4055.48 --> 4055.82] That -[4055.82 --> 4056.12] That -[4056.12 --> 4056.40] Is -[4056.40 --> 4056.68] Who -[4056.68 --> 4057.20] You -[4057.20 --> 4057.86] Are -[4057.86 --> 4059.22] And -[4059.22 --> 4059.54] So -[4059.54 --> 4060.40] No -[4060.40 --> 4060.78] Wonder -[4060.78 --> 4061.34] Then -[4061.34 --> 4061.80] That -[4061.80 --> 4062.08] This -[4062.08 --> 4062.70] Text -[4062.70 --> 4063.06] This -[4063.06 --> 4063.62] Little -[4063.62 --> 4064.06] Verse -[4064.06 --> 4064.48] Even -[4064.48 --> 4065.24] Begins -[4065.24 --> 4065.54] With -[4065.54 --> 4065.78] Do -[4065.78 --> 4066.04] Not -[4066.04 --> 4066.24] Be -[4066.24 --> 4066.66] Afraid -[4066.66 --> 4068.90] Right -[4068.90 --> 4069.06] No -[4069.06 --> 4069.28] Wonder -[4069.28 --> 4069.54] This -[4069.54 --> 4069.74] Little -[4069.74 --> 4070.24] Section -[4070.24 --> 4070.76] Is -[4070.76 --> 4070.98] The -[4070.98 --> 4071.86] Culmination -[4071.86 --> 4072.20] Of -[4072.20 --> 4072.50] Jesus -[4072.50 --> 4073.12] Teaching -[4073.12 --> 4073.70] To -[4073.70 --> 4073.94] His -[4073.94 --> 4074.76] Disciples -[4074.76 --> 4075.24] Not -[4075.24 --> 4075.46] To -[4075.46 --> 4075.84] Worry -[4075.84 --> 4076.20] Right -[4076.20 --> 4076.30] If -[4076.30 --> 4076.42] Your -[4076.42 --> 4076.70] Bibles -[4076.70 --> 4077.20] Are -[4077.20 --> 4077.54] Open -[4077.54 --> 4077.74] The -[4077.74 --> 4077.98] Section -[4077.98 --> 4078.40] Immediately -[4078.40 --> 4078.84] Before -[4078.84 --> 4079.14] This -[4079.14 --> 4079.72] In -[4079.72 --> 4079.84] The -[4079.84 --> 4080.18] NIV -[4080.18 --> 4080.58] Anyway -[4080.58 --> 4080.84] Has -[4080.84 --> 4081.04] The -[4081.04 --> 4081.58] Subheading -[4081.58 --> 4081.80] Do -[4081.80 --> 4082.10] Not -[4082.10 --> 4082.86] Worry -[4082.86 --> 4083.80] Right -[4083.80 --> 4084.04] Jesus -[4084.04 --> 4084.28] Says -[4084.28 --> 4084.50] Look -[4084.50 --> 4084.66] To -[4084.66 --> 4084.80] The -[4084.80 --> 4085.22] Birds -[4085.22 --> 4085.46] Of -[4085.46 --> 4085.62] The -[4085.62 --> 4085.96] Air -[4085.96 --> 4086.18] Or -[4086.18 --> 4086.30] To -[4086.30 --> 4086.44] The -[4086.44 --> 4086.80] Wild -[4086.80 --> 4087.26] Flowers -[4087.26 --> 4087.50] That -[4087.50 --> 4087.90] Grow -[4087.90 --> 4088.14] And -[4088.14 --> 4088.66] See -[4088.66 --> 4089.30] How -[4089.30 --> 4089.64] God -[4089.64 --> 4090.22] Provides -[4090.22 --> 4090.40] For -[4090.40 --> 4090.54] The -[4090.54 --> 4090.90] Fields -[4090.90 --> 4091.20] Through -[4091.20 --> 4091.50] Them -[4091.50 --> 4091.70] And -[4091.70 --> 4091.74] And -[4091.74 --> 4092.16] For -[4092.16 --> 4092.30] The -[4092.30 --> 4092.68] Birds -[4092.68 --> 4092.86] And -[4092.86 --> 4093.02] Giving -[4093.02 --> 4093.22] Them -[4093.22 --> 4093.64] Food -[4093.64 --> 4094.24] How -[4094.24 --> 4094.26] How -[4094.26 --> 4094.32] How -[4094.32 --> 4094.34] How -[4094.34 --> 4098.34] How -[4098.34 --> 4098.72] Instead -[4098.72 --> 4099.00] Is -[4099.00 --> 4099.02] Instead -[4099.02 --> 4099.52] Jesus -[4099.52 --> 4100.12] Says -[4100.12 --> 4101.32] Seek -[4101.32 --> 4101.66] First -[4101.66 --> 4102.08] His -[4102.08 --> 4103.66] Kingdom -[4103.66 --> 4105.26] And -[4105.26 --> 4105.46] These -[4105.46 --> 4105.72] Things -[4105.72 --> 4105.86] Will -[4105.86 --> 4105.98] Be -[4105.98 --> 4106.14] Given -[4106.14 --> 4106.32] To -[4106.32 --> 4106.50] You -[4106.50 --> 4106.68] As -[4106.68 --> 4106.92] Well -[4106.92 --> 4108.12] Right -[4108.12 --> 4108.46] It's -[4108.46 --> 4108.66] No -[4108.66 --> 4109.02] Wonder -[4109.02 --> 4109.32] That -[4109.32 --> 4109.58] This -[4109.58 --> 4110.24] Section -[4110.24 --> 4110.66] Comes -[4110.66 --> 4111.52] Immediately -[4111.52 --> 4112.02] Out -[4112.02 --> 4112.20] Of -[4112.20 --> 4112.40] The -[4112.40 --> 4113.06] Context -[4113.06 --> 4113.56] The -[4113.56 --> 4114.02] Parable -[4114.02 --> 4114.22] Of -[4114.22 --> 4114.36] The -[4114.36 --> 4114.56] Rich -[4114.56 --> 4114.94] Fool -[4114.94 --> 4115.26] Again -[4115.26 --> 4115.58] Look -[4115.58 --> 4115.98] In -[4115.98 --> 4116.12] Your -[4116.12 --> 4116.60] Bibles -[4116.60 --> 4117.70] Verse -[4117.70 --> 4118.18] 13 -[4118.18 --> 4118.36] Of -[4118.36 --> 4118.52] Luke -[4118.52 --> 4118.90] 12 -[4118.90 --> 4119.52] To -[4119.52 --> 4120.06] 21 -[4120.06 --> 4121.70] Right -[4121.70 --> 4122.08] A rich -[4122.08 --> 4122.40] Man -[4122.40 --> 4122.82] Comes -[4122.82 --> 4123.30] After -[4123.30 --> 4123.58] This -[4123.58 --> 4124.42] Abundant -[4124.42 --> 4124.98] Harvest -[4124.98 --> 4125.26] Is -[4125.26 --> 4125.42] The -[4125.42 --> 4125.68] Story -[4125.68 --> 4125.86] That -[4125.86 --> 4126.12] Jesus -[4126.12 --> 4126.52] Tells -[4126.52 --> 4126.60] And -[4126.60 --> 4126.70] He -[4126.70 --> 4126.88] Says -[4126.88 --> 4127.28] What -[4127.28 --> 4127.54] Shall -[4127.54 --> 4127.68] I -[4127.68 --> 4127.92] Do -[4127.92 --> 4128.16] Now -[4128.16 --> 4128.32] That -[4128.32 --> 4128.44] I -[4128.44 --> 4128.62] Have -[4128.62 --> 4128.84] All -[4128.84 --> 4128.98] Of -[4128.98 --> 4129.22] This -[4129.22 --> 4130.52] Abundant -[4130.52 --> 4131.40] Harvest -[4131.40 --> 4131.60] I -[4131.60 --> 4131.76] Have -[4131.76 --> 4131.90] No -[4131.90 --> 4132.22] Place -[4132.22 --> 4132.40] To -[4132.40 --> 4132.82] Store -[4132.82 --> 4133.08] All -[4133.08 --> 4133.28] My -[4133.28 --> 4133.76] Crops -[4133.76 --> 4134.24] And -[4134.24 --> 4134.46] So -[4134.46 --> 4134.70] He -[4134.70 --> 4135.30] Decides -[4135.30 --> 4135.50] To -[4135.50 --> 4135.76] Build -[4135.76 --> 4136.12] Bigger -[4136.12 --> 4136.74] Barns -[4136.74 --> 4137.10] And -[4137.10 --> 4137.54] Increase -[4137.54 --> 4137.78] His -[4137.78 --> 4138.30] Surplus -[4138.30 --> 4138.56] Yet -[4138.56 --> 4138.88] Even -[4138.88 --> 4139.26] More -[4139.26 --> 4140.20] And -[4140.20 --> 4140.54] Then -[4140.54 --> 4140.94] Having -[4140.94 --> 4141.20] Done -[4141.20 --> 4141.60] That -[4141.60 --> 4141.86] He -[4141.86 --> 4142.02] Will -[4142.02 --> 4142.36] Take -[4142.36 --> 4142.94] Life -[4142.94 --> 4143.38] Easy -[4143.38 --> 4143.60] As -[4143.60 --> 4143.86] Jesus -[4143.86 --> 4144.08] Says -[4144.08 --> 4144.20] He -[4144.20 --> 4144.32] Will -[4144.32 --> 4144.58] Eat -[4144.58 --> 4145.16] Drink -[4145.16 --> 4145.42] And -[4145.42 --> 4145.60] Be -[4145.60 --> 4146.00] Merry -[4146.00 --> 4147.28] But -[4147.28 --> 4147.40] In -[4147.40 --> 4147.54] The -[4147.54 --> 4147.92] Parable -[4147.92 --> 4148.14] That -[4148.14 --> 4148.38] Jesus -[4148.38 --> 4148.92] Says -[4148.92 --> 4149.28] God -[4149.28 --> 4149.70] Tells -[4149.70 --> 4149.96] Him -[4149.96 --> 4150.36] That -[4150.36 --> 4150.54] His -[4150.54 --> 4150.86] Life -[4150.86 --> 4151.06] Would -[4151.06 --> 4151.36] End -[4151.36 --> 4151.60] That -[4151.60 --> 4151.90] Very -[4151.90 --> 4152.24] Night -[4152.24 --> 4153.80] So -[4153.80 --> 4154.10] Jesus -[4154.10 --> 4154.60] Asks -[4154.60 --> 4155.36] Effectively -[4155.36 --> 4156.08] What -[4156.08 --> 4156.22] Is -[4156.22 --> 4156.40] The -[4156.40 --> 4156.70] Point -[4156.70 --> 4156.92] Of -[4156.92 --> 4157.12] This -[4157.12 --> 4157.48] Wealth -[4157.48 --> 4160.66] And -[4160.66 --> 4160.78] He -[4160.78 --> 4161.12] Says -[4161.12 --> 4162.86] And -[4162.86 --> 4163.28] This -[4163.28 --> 4163.56] Is -[4163.56 --> 4163.78] How -[4163.78 --> 4163.92] It -[4163.92 --> 4164.04] Will -[4164.04 --> 4164.28] Be -[4164.28 --> 4164.54] With -[4164.54 --> 4164.92] Whomever -[4164.92 --> 4165.34] Stores -[4165.34 --> 4165.54] Up -[4165.54 --> 4165.84] Things -[4165.84 --> 4166.04] For -[4166.04 --> 4166.78] Themselves -[4166.78 --> 4167.50] But -[4167.50 --> 4167.66] Is -[4167.66 --> 4168.08] Not -[4168.08 --> 4168.94] Rich -[4168.94 --> 4169.92] Towards -[4169.92 --> 4171.00] God -[4171.00 --> 4173.26] Now -[4173.26 --> 4173.50] Being -[4173.50 --> 4173.82] Rich -[4173.82 --> 4174.28] Towards -[4174.28 --> 4174.78] God -[4174.78 --> 4175.00] Is -[4175.00 --> 4175.18] A -[4175.18 --> 4176.26] Fascinating -[4176.26 --> 4177.38] Idea -[4177.38 --> 4177.54] And -[4177.54 --> 4177.78] Image -[4177.78 --> 4177.90] And -[4177.90 --> 4178.00] I'm -[4178.00 --> 4178.06] Going -[4178.06 --> 4178.10] To -[4178.10 --> 4178.34] Come -[4178.34 --> 4178.60] Back -[4178.60 --> 4178.76] To -[4178.76 --> 4179.04] That -[4179.04 --> 4180.12] At -[4180.12 --> 4180.24] The -[4180.24 --> 4180.48] End -[4180.48 --> 4181.36] But -[4181.36 --> 4181.54] For -[4181.54 --> 4181.78] Now -[4181.78 --> 4183.38] Take -[4183.38 --> 4183.78] All -[4183.78 --> 4183.94] Of -[4183.94 --> 4184.12] That -[4184.12 --> 4184.86] Context -[4184.86 --> 4185.24] From -[4185.24 --> 4185.48] Luke -[4185.48 --> 4186.02] 12 -[4186.02 --> 4186.56] Right -[4186.56 --> 4186.92] All -[4186.92 --> 4187.10] Of -[4187.10 --> 4187.28] That -[4187.28 --> 4188.18] Imagery -[4188.18 --> 4188.50] From -[4188.50 --> 4189.12] Ezekiel -[4189.12 --> 4189.72] 34 -[4189.72 --> 4190.50] And -[4190.50 --> 4190.66] Now -[4190.66 --> 4191.32] Pour -[4191.32 --> 4191.78] That -[4191.78 --> 4192.26] Into -[4192.26 --> 4192.80] Jesus -[4192.80 --> 4193.52] Words -[4193.52 --> 4194.18] Here -[4194.18 --> 4194.70] In -[4194.70 --> 4194.92] Our -[4194.92 --> 4195.34] Text -[4195.34 --> 4196.16] Right -[4196.16 --> 4196.56] That's -[4196.56 --> 4196.76] Why -[4196.76 --> 4197.12] Jesus -[4197.12 --> 4197.42] Can -[4197.42 --> 4197.64] Say -[4197.64 --> 4197.88] Do -[4197.88 --> 4198.12] Not -[4198.12 --> 4198.32] Be -[4198.32 --> 4198.80] Afraid -[4198.80 --> 4200.12] That's -[4200.12 --> 4200.26] Why -[4200.26 --> 4200.42] The -[4200.42 --> 4200.96] Disciple -[4200.96 --> 4201.22] You -[4201.22 --> 4201.38] And -[4201.38 --> 4201.54] I -[4201.54 --> 4201.78] Can -[4201.78 --> 4202.12] Hear -[4202.12 --> 4202.38] That -[4202.38 --> 4202.80] Phrase -[4202.80 --> 4203.06] Do -[4203.06 --> 4203.24] Not -[4203.24 --> 4203.42] Be -[4203.42 --> 4203.88] Afraid -[4203.88 --> 4204.34] And -[4204.34 --> 4204.76] Know -[4204.76 --> 4205.12] That -[4205.12 --> 4205.32] It -[4205.32 --> 4205.54] Is -[4205.54 --> 4206.12] True -[4206.12 --> 4206.76] Because -[4206.76 --> 4207.22] Jesus -[4207.22 --> 4207.74] Is -[4207.74 --> 4207.94] The -[4207.94 --> 4208.16] True -[4208.16 --> 4208.32] And -[4208.32 --> 4208.50] Better -[4208.50 --> 4208.90] Shepherd -[4208.90 --> 4209.46] And -[4209.46 --> 4209.78] That's -[4209.78 --> 4209.94] Why -[4209.94 --> 4210.16] We -[4210.16 --> 4210.32] Can -[4210.32 --> 4210.48] Hear -[4210.48 --> 4210.66] The -[4210.66 --> 4211.00] Phrase -[4211.00 --> 4211.24] Do -[4211.24 --> 4211.48] Not -[4211.48 --> 4211.68] Be -[4211.68 --> 4212.30] Afraid -[4212.30 --> 4213.06] Sell -[4213.06 --> 4213.26] All -[4213.26 --> 4213.44] Your -[4213.44 --> 4214.06] Possessions -[4214.06 --> 4214.36] And -[4214.36 --> 4214.52] Give -[4214.52 --> 4214.60] It -[4214.60 --> 4214.72] To -[4214.72 --> 4214.84] The -[4214.84 --> 4215.14] Poor -[4215.14 --> 4215.62] And -[4215.62 --> 4216.22] Trust -[4216.22 --> 4217.48] That -[4217.48 --> 4217.70] God -[4217.70 --> 4217.90] Has -[4217.90 --> 4218.04] It -[4218.04 --> 4218.40] Right -[4218.40 --> 4221.22] Think -[4221.22 --> 4221.48] About -[4221.48 --> 4221.70] It -[4221.70 --> 4224.84] What -[4224.84 --> 4225.20] Does -[4225.20 --> 4227.16] Jesus -[4227.16 --> 4228.16] Love -[4228.16 --> 4228.92] As -[4228.92 --> 4229.12] The -[4229.12 --> 4229.34] Good -[4229.34 --> 4229.68] Shepherd -[4229.68 --> 4230.40] Or -[4230.40 --> 4230.62] I'll -[4230.62 --> 4230.84] Put -[4230.84 --> 4230.94] The -[4230.94 --> 4231.16] Question -[4231.16 --> 4231.36] This -[4231.36 --> 4231.50] Way -[4231.50 --> 4232.14] How -[4232.14 --> 4232.44] Does -[4232.44 --> 4233.00] Seeing -[4233.00 --> 4233.44] Jesus -[4233.44 --> 4233.92] As -[4233.92 --> 4234.10] The -[4234.10 --> 4234.30] Good -[4234.30 --> 4234.76] Shepherd -[4234.76 --> 4235.26] As -[4235.26 --> 4235.42] The -[4235.42 --> 4235.60] True -[4235.60 --> 4235.76] And -[4235.76 --> 4235.94] Better -[4235.94 --> 4236.34] Shepherd -[4236.34 --> 4236.82] As -[4236.82 --> 4237.00] The -[4237.00 --> 4237.72] Culmination -[4237.72 --> 4238.04] Of -[4238.04 --> 4238.20] The -[4238.20 --> 4238.50] Hopes -[4238.50 --> 4238.66] Of -[4238.66 --> 4239.08] Ezekiel -[4239.08 --> 4239.50] 34 -[4239.50 --> 4239.78] How -[4239.78 --> 4239.94] Does -[4239.94 --> 4240.22] Seeing -[4240.22 --> 4240.60] Jesus -[4240.60 --> 4240.92] In -[4240.92 --> 4241.18] This -[4241.18 --> 4241.54] Way -[4241.54 --> 4242.56] How -[4242.56 --> 4242.82] Is -[4242.82 --> 4243.12] Seeing -[4243.12 --> 4243.40] Jesus -[4243.40 --> 4243.58] In -[4243.58 --> 4243.72] This -[4243.72 --> 4243.84] Way -[4243.84 --> 4244.10] The -[4244.10 --> 4244.56] Answer -[4244.56 --> 4245.26] To -[4245.26 --> 4245.44] The -[4245.44 --> 4245.98] Fear -[4245.98 --> 4246.50] And -[4246.50 --> 4246.64] The -[4246.64 --> 4247.26] Worry -[4247.26 --> 4247.76] Of -[4247.76 --> 4248.04] Luke -[4248.04 --> 4248.54] 12 -[4248.54 --> 4250.80] How -[4250.80 --> 4250.96] Does -[4250.96 --> 4251.48] Seeing -[4251.48 --> 4251.92] Jesus -[4251.92 --> 4252.22] In -[4252.22 --> 4252.42] That -[4252.42 --> 4252.64] Way -[4252.64 --> 4253.40] Reveal -[4253.40 --> 4254.00] What -[4254.00 --> 4254.50] Jesus -[4254.50 --> 4255.24] Loves -[4255.24 --> 4256.04] Reveal -[4256.04 --> 4256.50] Who -[4256.50 --> 4257.32] Jesus -[4257.32 --> 4258.02] Loves -[4258.02 --> 4259.54] And -[4259.54 --> 4259.64] Think -[4259.64 --> 4259.76] About -[4259.76 --> 4259.88] The -[4259.88 --> 4260.06] Words -[4260.06 --> 4260.22] That -[4260.22 --> 4260.32] We -[4260.32 --> 4260.50] Looked -[4260.50 --> 4260.64] At -[4260.64 --> 4260.86] From -[4260.86 --> 4261.28] Ezekiel -[4261.28 --> 4261.70] 34 -[4261.70 --> 4262.48] Jesus -[4262.48 --> 4263.02] Loves -[4263.02 --> 4263.24] The -[4263.24 --> 4263.72] Lost -[4263.72 --> 4264.84] He -[4264.84 --> 4265.14] Loves -[4265.14 --> 4265.48] The -[4265.48 --> 4266.16] Needy -[4266.16 --> 4266.96] Jesus -[4266.96 --> 4267.40] Loves -[4267.40 --> 4267.60] The -[4267.60 --> 4268.14] Injured -[4268.14 --> 4268.60] And -[4268.60 --> 4268.74] The -[4268.74 --> 4269.10] Broken -[4269.10 --> 4269.64] Jesus -[4269.64 --> 4270.08] Loves -[4270.08 --> 4270.34] The -[4270.34 --> 4270.76] Learning -[4270.76 --> 4271.32] And -[4271.32 --> 4271.50] The -[4271.50 --> 4272.10] Journeying -[4272.10 --> 4272.36] In -[4272.36 --> 4272.64] Faith -[4272.64 --> 4273.24] Jesus -[4273.24 --> 4273.72] Loves -[4273.72 --> 4273.90] The -[4273.90 --> 4274.50] Disciple -[4274.50 --> 4274.72] Who -[4274.72 --> 4274.96] Will -[4274.96 --> 4275.32] Leave -[4275.32 --> 4275.94] Everything -[4275.94 --> 4276.48] And -[4276.48 --> 4276.70] Come -[4276.70 --> 4277.00] After -[4277.00 --> 4277.22] Him -[4277.22 --> 4277.86] Jesus -[4277.86 --> 4278.60] Loves -[4278.60 --> 4278.78] The -[4278.78 --> 4279.02] One -[4279.02 --> 4279.26] Who -[4279.26 --> 4280.02] Despite -[4280.02 --> 4280.54] His -[4280.54 --> 4281.14] Doubts -[4281.14 --> 4281.94] Says -[4281.94 --> 4282.48] My -[4282.48 --> 4282.92] Lord -[4282.92 --> 4283.16] And -[4283.16 --> 4283.38] My -[4283.38 --> 4283.76] God -[4283.76 --> 4284.80] Jesus -[4284.80 --> 4285.26] Loves -[4285.26 --> 4285.46] The -[4285.46 --> 4285.66] One -[4285.66 --> 4285.84] Who -[4285.84 --> 4286.06] Has -[4286.06 --> 4286.50] Wandered -[4286.50 --> 4286.90] Away -[4286.90 --> 4287.24] And -[4287.24 --> 4287.66] Is -[4287.66 --> 4288.24] Slowly -[4288.24 --> 4289.08] Wandering -[4289.08 --> 4289.44] Back -[4289.44 --> 4289.78] Jesus -[4289.78 --> 4290.22] Loves -[4290.22 --> 4290.42] The -[4290.42 --> 4290.68] One -[4290.68 --> 4291.16] Who -[4291.16 --> 4291.38] Has -[4291.38 --> 4291.80] Stayed -[4291.80 --> 4292.42] Faithfully -[4292.42 --> 4292.68] By -[4292.68 --> 4292.94] His -[4292.94 --> 4293.36] Side -[4293.36 --> 4293.68] Through -[4293.68 --> 4293.86] It -[4296.16 --> 4297.02] Yards -[4297.02 --> 4297.28] And -[4297.28 --> 4297.66] Yards -[4297.66 --> 4298.34] Miles -[4298.34 --> 4298.62] And -[4298.62 --> 4298.90] Miles -[4298.90 --> 4299.30] Away -[4299.30 --> 4299.96] Jesus -[4299.96 --> 4300.46] Loves -[4300.46 --> 4300.66] The -[4300.66 --> 4301.32] Outcast -[4301.32 --> 4301.66] And -[4301.66 --> 4301.82] The -[4301.82 --> 4302.60] Marginalized -[4302.60 --> 4303.02] And -[4303.02 --> 4303.60] Be sure -[4303.60 --> 4303.76] You -[4303.76 --> 4303.92] Hear -[4303.92 --> 4304.16] This -[4304.16 --> 4304.70] Jesus -[4304.70 --> 4305.18] Loves -[4305.18 --> 4305.44] The -[4305.44 --> 4306.18] Insider -[4306.18 --> 4306.62] And -[4306.62 --> 4306.86] The -[4306.86 --> 4307.26] Agent -[4307.26 --> 4307.48] Of -[4307.48 --> 4307.64] The -[4307.64 --> 4308.12] Empire -[4308.12 --> 4309.38] Because -[4309.38 --> 4309.92] Jesus -[4309.92 --> 4310.74] Would -[4310.74 --> 4311.22] Sit -[4311.22 --> 4311.42] And -[4311.42 --> 4311.58] Would -[4311.58 --> 4311.88] Share -[4311.88 --> 4312.08] A -[4312.08 --> 4312.44] Meal -[4312.44 --> 4312.98] With -[4312.98 --> 4313.30] A -[4313.30 --> 4313.80] Zealot -[4313.80 --> 4314.16] For -[4314.16 --> 4314.72] Violent -[4314.72 --> 4315.44] Rebellion -[4315.44 --> 4316.90] And -[4316.90 --> 4317.06] A -[4317.06 --> 4317.30] Tax -[4317.30 --> 4317.82] Collector -[4317.82 --> 4319.14] A -[4319.14 --> 4319.60] Proxy -[4319.60 --> 4319.82] Of -[4319.82 --> 4320.08] Roman -[4320.08 --> 4320.58] Oppression -[4320.58 --> 4322.00] At -[4322.00 --> 4322.14] The -[4322.14 --> 4322.32] Same -[4322.32 --> 4322.74] Table -[4322.74 --> 4323.92] Because -[4323.92 --> 4324.12] Of -[4324.12 --> 4324.56] Jesus -[4324.56 --> 4326.08] Jesus -[4326.08 --> 4326.34] Would -[4326.34 --> 4326.64] Sit -[4326.64 --> 4326.82] With -[4326.82 --> 4326.96] A -[4326.96 --> 4327.74] Prostitute -[4327.74 --> 4329.00] And -[4329.00 --> 4329.22] A -[4329.22 --> 4329.50] Temple -[4329.50 --> 4329.88] Leader -[4329.88 --> 4330.94] At -[4330.94 --> 4331.10] The -[4331.10 --> 4331.28] Same -[4331.28 --> 4331.72] Table -[4331.72 --> 4333.00] Because -[4333.00 --> 4333.22] Of -[4333.22 --> 4333.56] Jesus -[4333.56 --> 4334.94] And -[4334.94 --> 4335.08] He -[4335.08 --> 4335.44] Loved -[4335.44 --> 4335.66] Them -[4335.66 --> 4336.10] All -[4336.10 --> 4338.20] And -[4338.20 --> 4338.34] Here -[4338.34 --> 4338.46] It -[4338.46 --> 4338.62] Is -[4338.62 --> 4339.26] Here's -[4339.26 --> 4339.38] Where -[4339.38 --> 4339.48] It -[4339.48 --> 4339.66] Comes -[4339.66 --> 4340.00] Together -[4340.00 --> 4342.02] To -[4342.02 --> 4342.16] Be -[4342.16 --> 4342.70] Loved -[4342.70 --> 4343.02] By -[4343.02 --> 4343.64] Jesus -[4343.64 --> 4345.10] And -[4345.10 --> 4345.24] Then -[4345.24 --> 4345.42] To -[4345.42 --> 4345.84] Love -[4345.84 --> 4346.26] Jesus -[4346.26 --> 4346.60] In -[4346.60 --> 4347.18] Return -[4347.18 --> 4348.76] Is -[4348.76 --> 4349.26] Also -[4349.26 --> 4350.08] To -[4350.08 --> 4350.90] Love -[4350.90 --> 4351.42] The -[4351.42 --> 4352.02] Things -[4352.02 --> 4352.38] And -[4352.38 --> 4352.58] The -[4352.58 --> 4353.12] People -[4353.12 --> 4353.80] That -[4353.80 --> 4354.24] Jesus -[4354.24 --> 4355.00] Loves -[4355.00 --> 4356.56] Now -[4356.56 --> 4357.26] Not -[4357.26 --> 4357.76] Everyone -[4357.76 --> 4358.16] Is -[4358.16 --> 4358.50] Called -[4358.50 --> 4358.78] To -[4358.78 --> 4359.00] Show -[4359.00 --> 4359.20] That -[4359.20 --> 4359.46] Love -[4359.46 --> 4359.66] In -[4359.66 --> 4360.16] Exactly -[4360.16 --> 4360.48] The -[4360.48 --> 4360.80] Same -[4360.80 --> 4361.56] Way -[4361.56 --> 4362.12] In -[4362.12 --> 4362.28] Fact -[4362.28 --> 4362.60] Each -[4362.60 --> 4362.82] Of -[4362.82 --> 4363.02] Us -[4363.02 --> 4363.24] Is -[4363.24 --> 4363.56] Called -[4363.56 --> 4363.82] To -[4363.82 --> 4364.08] Show -[4364.08 --> 4364.26] That -[4364.26 --> 4364.48] Love -[4364.48 --> 4364.66] In -[4364.66 --> 4365.06] Exactly -[4365.06 --> 4365.64] Your -[4365.64 --> 4366.10] Own -[4366.10 --> 4366.72] Way -[4366.72 --> 4367.32] But -[4367.32 --> 4367.48] What -[4367.48 --> 4367.72] Jesus -[4367.72 --> 4368.04] Is -[4368.04 --> 4368.42] Saying -[4368.42 --> 4369.10] Here -[4369.10 --> 4369.34] Is -[4369.34 --> 4369.46] That -[4369.46 --> 4369.58] There -[4369.58 --> 4369.72] Is -[4369.72 --> 4369.86] A -[4369.86 --> 4370.88] Commonality -[4370.88 --> 4371.64] To -[4371.64 --> 4371.86] Our -[4371.86 --> 4372.50] Showing -[4372.50 --> 4372.82] Of -[4372.82 --> 4373.28] That -[4373.28 --> 4373.66] Love -[4373.66 --> 4373.90] That -[4373.90 --> 4374.88] Connects -[4374.88 --> 4375.34] To -[4375.34 --> 4376.34] Your -[4376.34 --> 4377.24] Treasure -[4377.24 --> 4379.22] For -[4379.22 --> 4379.38] Where -[4379.38 --> 4379.58] Your -[4379.58 --> 4379.94] Treasure -[4379.94 --> 4380.50] Is -[4380.50 --> 4381.42] There -[4381.42 --> 4381.68] Your -[4381.68 --> 4382.04] Heart -[4382.04 --> 4382.28] Will -[4382.28 --> 4382.64] Be -[4382.64 --> 4383.68] Also -[4383.68 --> 4385.68] So -[4385.68 --> 4386.02] Really -[4386.02 --> 4386.52] Simply -[4386.52 --> 4388.38] Where -[4388.38 --> 4388.64] You -[4388.64 --> 4388.92] Put -[4388.92 --> 4389.14] Your -[4389.14 --> 4389.56] Money -[4389.56 --> 4391.32] Reveals -[4391.32 --> 4391.80] What -[4391.80 --> 4391.98] You -[4391.98 --> 4392.34] Love -[4392.34 --> 4395.24] Now -[4395.24 --> 4397.16] We've -[4397.16 --> 4397.54] Seen -[4397.54 --> 4397.92] What -[4397.92 --> 4398.26] And -[4398.26 --> 4398.54] Who -[4398.54 --> 4398.84] And -[4398.84 --> 4399.32] How -[4399.32 --> 4400.14] Jesus -[4400.14 --> 4401.06] Loved -[4401.06 --> 4402.60] Do -[4402.60 --> 4402.80] You -[4402.80 --> 4403.12] Use -[4403.12 --> 4403.40] Your -[4403.40 --> 4403.74] Wealth -[4403.74 --> 4403.94] To -[4403.94 --> 4404.34] Reflect -[4404.34 --> 4404.56] That -[4404.56 --> 4404.82] Same -[4404.82 --> 4405.18] Truth -[4405.18 --> 4405.74] About -[4405.74 --> 4406.30] Jesus -[4406.30 --> 4407.36] Do -[4407.36 --> 4407.96] You -[4407.96 --> 4408.48] Spend -[4408.48 --> 4408.74] Your -[4408.74 --> 4409.14] Time -[4409.14 --> 4409.30] And -[4409.30 --> 4409.42] Your -[4409.42 --> 4409.78] Talents -[4409.78 --> 4409.94] And -[4409.94 --> 4410.06] Your -[4410.06 --> 4410.44] Treasure -[4410.44 --> 4411.12] On -[4411.12 --> 4411.82] Revealing -[4411.82 --> 4412.28] The -[4412.28 --> 4412.70] Kinds -[4412.70 --> 4412.82] Of -[4412.82 --> 4413.16] Things -[4413.16 --> 4413.40] That -[4413.40 --> 4413.80] Jesus -[4413.80 --> 4414.32] Loves -[4414.32 --> 4414.70] The -[4414.70 --> 4415.16] People -[4415.16 --> 4415.44] Whom -[4415.44 --> 4416.00] Jesus -[4416.00 --> 4416.70] Loved -[4416.70 --> 4418.30] I'm -[4418.30 --> 4418.36] Going -[4418.36 --> 4418.42] To -[4418.42 --> 4418.52] Put -[4418.52 --> 4418.62] A -[4418.62 --> 4418.82] Very -[4418.82 --> 4419.50] Fine -[4419.50 --> 4419.86] Point -[4419.86 --> 4420.06] On -[4420.06 --> 4420.18] It -[4420.18 --> 4420.36] For -[4420.36 --> 4420.58] Us -[4420.58 --> 4420.78] This -[4420.78 --> 4421.02] Morning -[4421.02 --> 4421.28] So -[4421.28 --> 4421.56] That -[4421.56 --> 4421.76] We -[4421.76 --> 4422.10] Don't -[4422.10 --> 4422.64] Miss -[4422.64 --> 4422.80] It -[4422.80 --> 4423.10] Because -[4423.10 --> 4423.40] It's -[4423.40 --> 4424.02] Really -[4424.02 --> 4424.30] Easy -[4424.30 --> 4424.44] To -[4424.44 --> 4424.58] Put -[4424.58 --> 4424.96] Blinders -[4424.96 --> 4425.18] On -[4425.18 --> 4425.32] When -[4425.32 --> 4425.42] The -[4425.42 --> 4425.62] Preacher -[4425.62 --> 4425.90] Starts -[4425.90 --> 4426.16] Talking -[4426.16 --> 4426.34] About -[4426.34 --> 4426.52] How -[4426.52 --> 4426.72] You -[4426.72 --> 4426.98] Spend -[4426.98 --> 4427.16] Your -[4427.16 --> 4427.38] Money -[4427.38 --> 4429.20] When -[4429.20 --> 4429.40] You -[4429.40 --> 4429.94] Support -[4429.94 --> 4430.22] The -[4430.22 --> 4430.68] Ministry -[4430.68 --> 4431.06] And -[4431.06 --> 4431.40] Mission -[4431.40 --> 4431.74] Of -[4431.74 --> 4432.04] This -[4432.04 --> 4432.56] Church -[4432.56 --> 4433.70] You're -[4433.70 --> 4434.30] Supporting -[4434.30 --> 4434.52] The -[4434.52 --> 4434.76] Work -[4434.76 --> 4434.98] Of -[4434.98 --> 4435.30] Jesus -[4440.44 --> 4440.74] And -[4440.74 --> 4440.88] The -[4440.88 --> 4441.40] Wandering -[4441.40 --> 4442.02] Here -[4442.02 --> 4442.24] We -[4442.24 --> 4442.40] Are -[4442.40 --> 4442.82] Sitting -[4442.82 --> 4443.08] With -[4443.08 --> 4443.52] The -[4443.52 --> 4443.94] Praying -[4443.94 --> 4444.20] And -[4444.20 --> 4444.82] Healing -[4444.82 --> 4445.08] For -[4445.08 --> 4445.22] The -[4445.22 --> 4445.52] Broken -[4445.52 --> 4446.14] Here -[4446.14 --> 4446.34] We -[4446.34 --> 4446.48] Are -[4446.48 --> 4446.96] Crying -[4446.96 --> 4447.22] Out -[4447.22 --> 4447.58] In -[4447.58 --> 4447.96] Lament -[4447.96 --> 4448.30] For -[4448.30 --> 4449.18] Justice -[4449.18 --> 4449.74] And -[4449.74 --> 4450.12] Here -[4450.12 --> 4451.16] We -[4451.16 --> 4451.38] Are -[4451.38 --> 4451.98] Walking -[4451.98 --> 4452.82] Alongside -[4452.82 --> 4453.06] Of -[4453.06 --> 4453.40] Those -[4453.40 --> 4453.62] Who -[4453.62 --> 4453.84] Are -[4453.84 --> 4454.70] Oppressed -[4454.70 --> 4455.30] Here -[4455.30 --> 4455.54] We -[4455.54 --> 4455.76] Are -[4455.76 --> 4456.46] Equipping -[4456.46 --> 4456.66] At -[4456.66 --> 4456.80] The -[4456.80 --> 4457.04] Same -[4457.04 --> 4457.48] Time -[4457.48 --> 4458.22] Leaders -[4458.22 --> 4458.86] Public -[4458.86 --> 4459.40] Servants -[4459.40 --> 4459.86] Who -[4459.86 --> 4460.16] Will -[4460.16 --> 4460.62] Be -[4460.62 --> 4461.00] The -[4461.00 --> 4461.38] Answer -[4461.38 --> 4461.66] To -[4461.66 --> 4461.90] Their -[4461.90 --> 4462.38] Prayers -[4462.38 --> 4462.60] For -[4462.60 --> 4463.18] Justice -[4463.18 --> 4464.08] Here -[4464.08 --> 4464.32] We -[4464.32 --> 4464.50] Are -[4464.50 --> 4464.88] Walking -[4464.88 --> 4465.68] Alongside -[4465.68 --> 4465.86] Of -[4465.86 --> 4466.02] The -[4466.02 --> 4466.60] Addicted -[4466.60 --> 4467.08] Through -[4467.08 --> 4467.80] Addiction -[4467.80 --> 4468.12] And -[4468.12 --> 4468.62] Recovery -[4468.62 --> 4469.22] Here -[4469.22 --> 4469.44] We -[4470.44 --> 4470.64] People -[4470.64 --> 4471.14] Towards -[4471.14 --> 4472.06] Wholeness -[4472.06 --> 4472.24] In -[4472.24 --> 4472.48] All -[4472.48 --> 4473.06] Avenues -[4473.06 --> 4473.52] Of -[4473.52 --> 4473.70] Their -[4473.70 --> 4474.02] Life -[4474.02 --> 4474.20] As -[4474.20 --> 4474.30] It -[4474.30 --> 4474.56] Relates -[4474.56 --> 4474.74] To -[4474.74 --> 4475.04] Sex -[4475.04 --> 4475.32] And -[4475.32 --> 4475.46] As -[4475.46 --> 4475.56] It -[4475.56 --> 4475.86] Relates -[4475.86 --> 4476.04] To -[4476.04 --> 4476.38] Food -[4476.38 --> 4476.84] To -[4476.84 --> 4477.38] Busyness -[4477.38 --> 4477.60] And -[4477.60 --> 4477.74] To -[4477.74 --> 4478.20] Idleness -[4478.20 --> 4478.70] As -[4478.70 --> 4478.84] It -[4478.84 --> 4479.10] Relates -[4479.10 --> 4479.26] To -[4479.26 --> 4479.66] Pride -[4479.66 --> 4479.94] And -[4479.94 --> 4480.12] To -[4480.12 --> 4480.70] Humility -[4480.70 --> 4481.58] Here -[4481.58 --> 4481.80] We -[4481.80 --> 4481.98] Are -[4481.98 --> 4482.42] Walking -[4482.42 --> 4482.84] In -[4482.84 --> 4483.18] Broken -[4483.18 --> 4484.02] Relationships -[4484.02 --> 4484.18] And -[4484.18 --> 4484.54] Holding -[4484.54 --> 4484.88] Out -[4484.88 --> 4485.28] The -[4485.28 --> 4485.58] Hope -[4485.58 --> 4485.80] Of -[4485.80 --> 4485.96] The -[4485.96 --> 4486.40] Gospel -[4486.40 --> 4488.24] That's -[4488.24 --> 4488.40] What -[4488.40 --> 4488.60] We -[4488.60 --> 4488.86] Do -[4488.86 --> 4489.24] Here -[4489.24 --> 4489.70] And -[4489.70 --> 4490.24] Sometimes -[4490.24 --> 4490.50] That -[4490.50 --> 4490.74] Gets -[4490.74 --> 4491.14] Lost -[4491.14 --> 4491.38] Or -[4491.38 --> 4492.00] Disguised -[4492.00 --> 4492.16] In -[4492.16 --> 4492.28] The -[4492.28 --> 4492.48] Fact -[4492.48 --> 4492.64] That -[4492.64 --> 4492.76] We -[4492.76 --> 4493.00] Take -[4493.00 --> 4493.12] An -[4493.12 --> 4493.42] Offering -[4493.42 --> 4493.58] For -[4493.58 --> 4493.72] The -[4493.72 --> 4494.16] Budget -[4494.16 --> 4496.12] I -[4496.12 --> 4496.22] Mean -[4496.22 --> 4496.48] What's -[4496.48 --> 4496.62] The -[4496.62 --> 4497.00] Budget -[4497.00 --> 4498.62] Right -[4498.62 --> 4498.88] That's -[4498.88 --> 4499.02] That -[4499.02 --> 4499.26] Meeting -[4499.26 --> 4499.44] We -[4499.44 --> 4499.62] Have -[4499.62 --> 4499.72] To -[4499.72 --> 4500.04] Have -[4500.04 --> 4500.62] Twice -[4500.62 --> 4500.80] A -[4500.80 --> 4500.96] Year -[4500.96 --> 4501.18] One -[4501.18 --> 4501.34] To -[4501.34 --> 4501.70] Approve -[4501.70 --> 4501.80] It -[4501.80 --> 4501.94] And -[4501.94 --> 4502.08] Then -[4502.08 --> 4502.28] Like -[4502.28 --> 4502.56] Last -[4502.56 --> 4502.78] Week -[4502.78 --> 4502.94] To -[4502.94 --> 4503.32] Approve -[4503.32 --> 4503.48] The -[4503.48 --> 4503.76] Record -[4503.76 --> 4503.96] Of -[4503.96 --> 4504.14] It -[4504.14 --> 4505.34] Make -[4505.34 --> 4505.50] No -[4505.50 --> 4505.88] Mistake -[4505.88 --> 4506.16] About -[4506.16 --> 4506.28] It -[4506.28 --> 4506.46] The -[4506.46 --> 4506.86] Budget -[4506.86 --> 4507.50] Is -[4507.50 --> 4507.72] The -[4507.72 --> 4508.10] Record -[4508.10 --> 4508.34] Of -[4508.34 --> 4508.48] The -[4508.48 --> 4509.14] Ministries -[4509.14 --> 4509.54] And -[4509.54 --> 4509.70] The -[4509.70 --> 4510.04] Mission -[4510.04 --> 4510.32] Of -[4510.32 --> 4510.54] This -[4510.54 --> 4510.98] Church -[4510.98 --> 4511.94] The -[4511.94 --> 4512.22] Budget -[4512.22 --> 4512.46] Is -[4512.46 --> 4512.66] The -[4512.66 --> 4512.92] Way -[4512.92 --> 4513.14] That -[4513.14 --> 4513.44] God -[4513.44 --> 4513.66] Is -[4513.66 --> 4513.82] At -[4513.82 --> 4514.04] Work -[4514.04 --> 4514.32] In -[4514.32 --> 4514.54] And -[4514.54 --> 4515.10] Through -[4515.10 --> 4515.60] Us -[4515.60 --> 4516.84] That's -[4516.84 --> 4516.96] Why -[4516.96 --> 4517.16] On -[4517.16 --> 4517.38] The -[4517.38 --> 4518.26] Tithes -[4518.26 --> 4518.40] And -[4518.40 --> 4518.92] Offerings -[4518.92 --> 4519.44] Slide -[4519.44 --> 4519.64] You -[4519.64 --> 4519.78] Will -[4519.78 --> 4519.98] See -[4519.98 --> 4520.20] There -[4520.20 --> 4520.56] Every -[4520.56 --> 4520.82] Week -[4520.82 --> 4521.04] Maybe -[4521.04 --> 4521.18] You -[4521.18 --> 4521.36] Miss -[4521.36 --> 4521.46] It -[4521.46 --> 4521.66] Because -[4521.66 --> 4521.82] It's -[4521.82 --> 4522.00] There -[4522.00 --> 4522.22] Every -[4522.22 --> 4522.44] Week -[4522.44 --> 4522.98] It -[4522.98 --> 4523.26] Doesn't -[4523.26 --> 4523.48] Say -[4523.48 --> 4523.78] First -[4523.78 --> 4524.16] Offering -[4524.16 --> 4524.54] Budget -[4524.54 --> 4526.34] It -[4526.34 --> 4526.56] Says -[4526.56 --> 4526.86] First -[4526.86 --> 4527.36] Offering -[4527.36 --> 4528.40] Ministries -[4528.40 --> 4529.34] And -[4529.34 --> 4529.66] Mission -[4529.66 --> 4532.02] We -[4532.02 --> 4532.24] Need -[4532.24 --> 4532.40] To -[4532.40 --> 4533.32] Reframe -[4533.32 --> 4535.08] How -[4535.08 --> 4535.24] We -[4535.24 --> 4535.50] Talk -[4535.50 --> 4535.74] About -[4535.74 --> 4535.96] These -[4535.96 --> 4536.28] Things -[4536.28 --> 4536.62] Because -[4536.62 --> 4537.00] This -[4537.00 --> 4537.56] Is -[4537.56 --> 4538.36] How -[4538.36 --> 4538.62] We -[4538.62 --> 4539.14] Show -[4539.14 --> 4539.64] The -[4539.64 --> 4539.92] Love -[4539.92 --> 4540.18] Of -[4540.18 --> 4540.60] Jesus -[4540.60 --> 4541.44] For -[4541.44 --> 4541.54] The -[4541.54 --> 4541.70] World -[4541.70 --> 4541.86] And -[4541.86 --> 4542.02] How -[4542.02 --> 4542.50] Our -[4542.50 --> 4543.02] Treasure -[4543.02 --> 4543.38] Is -[4543.38 --> 4543.92] Actually -[4543.92 --> 4544.52] Him -[4544.52 --> 4545.90] Not -[4545.90 --> 4546.06] The -[4546.06 --> 4546.26] Things -[4546.26 --> 4546.40] That -[4546.40 --> 4546.48] He -[4546.48 --> 4546.74] Calls -[4546.74 --> 4546.88] Us -[4546.88 --> 4547.02] To -[4547.02 --> 4547.18] Give -[4547.18 --> 4547.38] Up -[4547.38 --> 4548.34] Now -[4548.34 --> 4548.74] Let -[4548.74 --> 4548.82] Me -[4548.82 --> 4548.98] Be -[4548.98 --> 4549.30] Really -[4549.30 --> 4549.64] Clear -[4549.64 --> 4549.96] Okay -[4549.96 --> 4550.28] Because -[4550.28 --> 4550.46] We -[4550.46 --> 4551.00] Celebrated -[4551.00 --> 4551.34] Last -[4551.34 --> 4551.62] Week -[4551.62 --> 4552.04] That -[4552.04 --> 4552.18] We -[4552.18 --> 4552.36] Were -[4552.36 --> 4552.76] Within -[4552.76 --> 4553.40] 1% -[4553.40 --> 4553.70] Of -[4553.70 --> 4553.84] Our -[4553.84 --> 4554.18] Target -[4554.18 --> 4554.58] Budget -[4554.58 --> 4555.44] Right -[4555.44 --> 4555.58] That -[4555.58 --> 4555.70] We -[4555.70 --> 4555.86] Had -[4555.86 --> 4556.10] A -[4556.10 --> 4556.78] Surplus -[4556.78 --> 4557.28] In -[4557.28 --> 4557.50] Our -[4557.50 --> 4558.50] Expenditures -[4558.50 --> 4559.56] Over -[4559.56 --> 4559.78] Our -[4559.78 --> 4560.02] Giving -[4560.02 --> 4560.46] And -[4560.46 --> 4560.58] That -[4560.58 --> 4560.70] Is -[4560.70 --> 4561.14] Amazing -[4561.14 --> 4561.42] And -[4561.42 --> 4561.54] I -[4561.54 --> 4561.94] Praise -[4561.94 --> 4562.26] God -[4562.26 --> 4562.44] For -[4562.44 --> 4562.74] That -[4562.74 --> 4562.98] And -[4562.98 --> 4563.14] For -[4563.14 --> 4563.40] You -[4563.40 --> 4563.62] And -[4563.62 --> 4563.78] For -[4563.78 --> 4563.94] Your -[4563.94 --> 4564.64] Faithfulness -[4564.64 --> 4565.22] In -[4565.22 --> 4565.46] Giving -[4565.46 --> 4565.64] To -[4565.64 --> 4565.80] The -[4565.80 --> 4566.24] Ministries -[4566.24 --> 4566.46] Of -[4566.46 --> 4566.66] This -[4566.66 --> 4567.06] Church -[4567.06 --> 4567.74] That -[4567.74 --> 4567.92] Is -[4567.92 --> 4568.10] A -[4568.10 --> 4569.00] Testimony -[4569.00 --> 4569.66] Of -[4569.66 --> 4569.92] What -[4569.92 --> 4570.26] God -[4570.26 --> 4570.50] Is -[4570.50 --> 4570.78] Doing -[4570.78 --> 4571.14] Here -[4571.14 --> 4573.90] But -[4577.02 --> 4577.46] Start -[4577.46 --> 4579.12] Right -[4579.12 --> 4579.46] Jesus -[4579.46 --> 4580.18] Love -[4580.18 --> 4580.54] For -[4580.54 --> 4580.82] You -[4580.82 --> 4581.34] Doesn't -[4581.34 --> 4582.04] Stop -[4582.04 --> 4583.28] And -[4583.28 --> 4583.50] So -[4583.50 --> 4583.88] Our -[4583.88 --> 4584.48] Love -[4584.48 --> 4584.70] For -[4584.70 --> 4584.90] What -[4584.90 --> 4585.22] He -[4585.22 --> 4586.02] Loves -[4586.02 --> 4586.52] Doesn't -[4586.52 --> 4586.88] Stop -[4586.88 --> 4587.24] Either -[4587.24 --> 4588.38] It -[4588.38 --> 4588.96] Keeps -[4588.96 --> 4589.50] Going -[4589.50 --> 4589.78] It -[4589.78 --> 4590.22] Keeps -[4590.22 --> 4590.76] Pressing -[4590.76 --> 4590.94] Out -[4590.94 --> 4591.08] It -[4591.08 --> 4591.38] Keeps -[4591.38 --> 4591.94] Reaching -[4591.94 --> 4592.48] Beyond -[4592.48 --> 4593.48] Itself -[4593.48 --> 4594.86] And -[4594.86 --> 4595.30] Here's -[4595.30 --> 4595.44] Where -[4595.44 --> 4595.56] I -[4595.56 --> 4595.72] Want -[4595.72 --> 4595.84] To -[4595.84 --> 4596.22] Pick -[4596.22 --> 4596.36] Up -[4596.36 --> 4596.52] That -[4596.52 --> 4596.82] Idea -[4596.82 --> 4597.08] Then -[4597.08 --> 4597.40] Again -[4597.40 --> 4597.64] Of -[4597.64 --> 4597.92] Being -[4597.92 --> 4598.36] Rich -[4598.36 --> 4599.14] Towards -[4599.14 --> 4600.10] God -[4600.10 --> 4602.14] Right -[4602.14 --> 4602.32] Being -[4602.32 --> 4602.58] Rich -[4602.58 --> 4602.92] Towards -[4602.92 --> 4603.16] God -[4603.16 --> 4603.40] Because -[4603.40 --> 4606.34] God -[4606.34 --> 4606.64] Doesn't -[4606.64 --> 4607.22] Need -[4607.22 --> 4608.42] Our -[4608.42 --> 4608.80] Money -[4608.80 --> 4610.34] Right -[4610.34 --> 4610.48] It's -[4610.48 --> 4610.62] Not -[4610.62 --> 4610.80] Like -[4610.80 --> 4611.10] We -[4611.10 --> 4611.46] Can -[4611.46 --> 4611.98] Pay -[4611.98 --> 4612.74] Off -[4612.74 --> 4613.12] Our -[4613.12 --> 4613.58] Debt -[4613.58 --> 4613.88] In -[4613.88 --> 4614.12] That -[4614.12 --> 4614.36] Way -[4614.36 --> 4614.56] And -[4614.56 --> 4614.68] Then -[4614.68 --> 4614.84] So -[4614.84 --> 4615.00] He -[4615.00 --> 4615.26] Gives -[4615.26 --> 4615.48] Us -[4615.48 --> 4615.76] More -[4615.76 --> 4615.92] Of -[4615.92 --> 4616.28] Himself -[4616.28 --> 4616.66] In -[4616.66 --> 4617.28] Return -[4617.28 --> 4618.52] Being -[4618.52 --> 4618.96] Rich -[4618.96 --> 4619.56] Towards -[4619.56 --> 4620.18] God -[4620.18 --> 4620.76] Is -[4620.76 --> 4621.72] Actually -[4621.72 --> 4622.40] Being -[4622.40 --> 4623.36] Generous -[4623.36 --> 4624.46] In -[4624.46 --> 4624.58] The -[4624.58 --> 4624.86] World -[4624.86 --> 4626.68] Over -[4626.68 --> 4626.94] And -[4626.94 --> 4627.32] Over -[4627.32 --> 4627.52] And -[4627.52 --> 4627.80] Over -[4627.80 --> 4628.22] Again -[4628.22 --> 4628.50] The -[4628.50 --> 4628.84] Bible -[4628.84 --> 4629.44] Calls -[4629.44 --> 4629.74] Us -[4629.74 --> 4630.04] To -[4630.04 --> 4631.34] Generous -[4631.34 --> 4632.18] Giving -[4632.18 --> 4633.48] Right -[4633.48 --> 4633.70] The -[4633.70 --> 4634.16] Deacons -[4634.16 --> 4634.66] Remind -[4634.66 --> 4634.90] Us -[4634.90 --> 4635.12] Of -[4635.12 --> 4635.48] This -[4635.48 --> 4636.24] Almost -[4636.24 --> 4636.54] Every -[4636.54 --> 4636.78] Week -[4636.78 --> 4636.94] When -[4636.94 --> 4637.06] They -[4637.06 --> 4637.34] Stand -[4637.34 --> 4637.48] Up -[4637.48 --> 4637.64] Here -[4637.64 --> 4637.78] And -[4637.78 --> 4637.88] They -[4637.88 --> 4638.02] Read -[4638.02 --> 4638.14] A -[4638.14 --> 4638.38] Text -[4638.38 --> 4638.62] About -[4638.62 --> 4638.84] How -[4638.84 --> 4639.28] We -[4639.28 --> 4639.40] Are -[4639.40 --> 4639.56] To -[4639.56 --> 4639.80] Give -[4639.80 --> 4639.94] And -[4639.94 --> 4640.04] The -[4640.04 --> 4640.48] Attitudes -[4640.48 --> 4640.68] That -[4640.68 --> 4640.80] We -[4640.80 --> 4640.94] Are -[4640.94 --> 4641.12] To -[4641.12 --> 4641.74] Have -[4641.74 --> 4642.02] In -[4642.02 --> 4642.20] Our -[4642.20 --> 4642.50] Giving -[4642.50 --> 4644.96] May -[4644.96 --> 4645.14] I -[4645.14 --> 4645.60] Suggest -[4645.60 --> 4645.86] To -[4645.86 --> 4646.12] You -[4646.12 --> 4646.44] This -[4646.44 --> 4646.74] Morning -[4646.74 --> 4648.38] That -[4648.38 --> 4648.56] There -[4648.56 --> 4648.74] Is -[4648.74 --> 4649.08] No -[4649.08 --> 4649.54] Such -[4649.54 --> 4650.00] Thing -[4650.00 --> 4651.42] As -[4651.42 --> 4651.56] A -[4651.56 --> 4652.12] Stingy -[4652.12 --> 4652.66] Christian -[4652.66 --> 4655.04] Or -[4655.04 --> 4656.32] There -[4656.32 --> 4656.56] Ought -[4656.56 --> 4656.74] To -[4656.74 --> 4657.00] Be -[4657.00 --> 4657.32] No -[4657.32 --> 4657.70] Such -[4657.70 --> 4658.10] Thing -[4658.10 --> 4659.16] As -[4659.16 --> 4659.34] A -[4659.34 --> 4660.10] Cheapskate -[4660.10 --> 4661.12] Who -[4661.12 --> 4661.38] Also -[4661.38 --> 4661.72] Calls -[4661.72 --> 4661.94] Himself -[4661.94 --> 4662.14] A -[4662.14 --> 4662.48] Christian -[4662.48 --> 4663.38] Or -[4663.38 --> 4663.82] Herself -[4663.82 --> 4664.16] Let's -[4664.16 --> 4664.30] Be -[4664.30 --> 4664.58] Equal -[4664.58 --> 4667.62] If -[4667.62 --> 4668.14] We -[4668.14 --> 4668.66] Have -[4668.66 --> 4669.58] Encountered -[4669.58 --> 4670.34] Jesus -[4670.34 --> 4670.88] And -[4670.88 --> 4671.24] His -[4671.24 --> 4671.74] Love -[4671.74 --> 4672.40] For -[4672.40 --> 4672.84] Us -[4672.84 --> 4673.18] That -[4673.18 --> 4673.42] Will -[4673.42 --> 4674.46] Change -[4674.46 --> 4677.76] Everything -[4677.76 --> 4679.24] About -[4679.24 --> 4679.44] What -[4679.44 --> 4679.60] We -[4679.60 --> 4679.92] Do -[4679.92 --> 4680.42] And -[4680.42 --> 4680.56] What -[4680.56 --> 4680.70] We -[4680.70 --> 4681.12] Love -[4681.12 --> 4681.50] In -[4681.50 --> 4681.60] The -[4681.60 --> 4681.80] World -[4681.80 --> 4681.98] And -[4681.98 --> 4682.12] That -[4682.12 --> 4682.30] Will -[4682.30 --> 4682.94] Start -[4682.94 --> 4685.02] In -[4685.02 --> 4685.16] Your -[4685.16 --> 4685.52] Pocket -[4685.52 --> 4687.62] In -[4687.62 --> 4687.92] My -[4687.92 --> 4688.94] Pocket -[4688.94 --> 4693.16] Finally -[4693.16 --> 4694.62] Word -[4694.62 --> 4694.94] About -[4694.94 --> 4695.28] These -[4695.28 --> 4696.26] Holy -[4696.26 --> 4696.86] Habits -[4696.86 --> 4698.30] And -[4698.30 --> 4698.90] Church -[4698.90 --> 4699.34] History -[4699.34 --> 4701.38] Many -[4701.38 --> 4701.46] Of -[4701.46 --> 4701.54] You -[4701.54 --> 4701.70] Know -[4701.70 --> 4701.86] That -[4701.86 --> 4701.98] I'm -[4701.98 --> 4702.32] A -[4702.32 --> 4702.70] Huge -[4702.70 --> 4703.56] History -[4703.56 --> 4703.86] Fed -[4703.86 --> 4704.04] My -[4704.04 --> 4704.50] Undergraduate -[4704.50 --> 4704.88] Degree -[4704.88 --> 4705.14] Is -[4705.14 --> 4705.28] In -[4705.28 --> 4706.16] History -[4706.16 --> 4706.68] And -[4706.68 --> 4708.92] Recently -[4708.92 --> 4709.58] I spent -[4709.58 --> 4709.88] A lot -[4709.88 --> 4709.98] Of -[4709.98 --> 4710.32] Time -[4710.32 --> 4710.56] With -[4710.56 --> 4710.96] A -[4710.96 --> 4711.16] Group -[4711.16 --> 4711.38] Of -[4711.38 --> 4711.78] Friends -[4711.78 --> 4712.88] Studying -[4712.88 --> 4713.28] The -[4713.28 --> 4713.80] Early -[4713.80 --> 4714.26] Church -[4714.26 --> 4714.48] The -[4714.48 --> 4714.74] Church -[4714.74 --> 4715.00] That's -[4715.00 --> 4715.20] Written -[4715.20 --> 4715.48] About -[4715.48 --> 4715.66] In -[4715.66 --> 4715.76] The -[4715.76 --> 4715.90] Book -[4715.90 --> 4716.04] Of -[4716.04 --> 4716.34] Acts -[4716.34 --> 4716.62] And -[4716.62 --> 4716.86] Their -[4716.86 --> 4717.58] Response -[4717.58 --> 4718.20] To -[4718.20 --> 4718.34] The -[4718.34 --> 4718.58] World -[4718.58 --> 4718.90] Around -[4718.90 --> 4719.12] Them -[4719.12 --> 4719.62] Engaging -[4719.62 --> 4719.92] With -[4719.92 --> 4720.46] Paganism -[4720.46 --> 4720.62] And -[4720.62 --> 4720.72] We -[4720.72 --> 4720.90] Do -[4720.90 --> 4721.16] That -[4721.16 --> 4721.72] Because -[4721.72 --> 4722.36] As -[4722.36 --> 4722.52] We -[4722.52 --> 4722.94] Move -[4722.94 --> 4723.22] More -[4723.22 --> 4723.40] And -[4723.40 --> 4723.68] More -[4723.68 --> 4723.90] In -[4723.90 --> 4724.38] Today's -[4724.38 --> 4724.72] World -[4724.72 --> 4725.14] Into -[4725.14 --> 4725.94] What -[4725.94 --> 4726.20] Is -[4726.20 --> 4726.76] Many -[4726.76 --> 4726.94] Are -[4726.94 --> 4727.24] Rightly -[4727.24 --> 4727.80] Identifying -[4727.80 --> 4727.98] As -[4727.98 --> 4728.10] A -[4728.10 --> 4728.44] Post -[4728.44 --> 4728.94] Christian -[4728.94 --> 4729.46] World -[4729.46 --> 4730.00] The -[4730.00 --> 4730.52] Best -[4730.52 --> 4731.52] Analog -[4731.52 --> 4731.72] The -[4731.72 --> 4731.98] Best -[4731.98 --> 4733.22] Correspondence -[4733.22 --> 4733.42] For -[4733.42 --> 4733.66] Us -[4733.66 --> 4733.84] To -[4733.84 --> 4734.14] See -[4734.14 --> 4734.40] How -[4734.40 --> 4734.58] To -[4734.58 --> 4734.80] Be -[4734.80 --> 4735.36] Faithfully -[4735.36 --> 4735.80] Christian -[4735.80 --> 4736.04] In -[4736.04 --> 4736.14] The -[4736.14 --> 4736.36] World -[4736.36 --> 4736.80] Is -[4736.80 --> 4737.10] Actually -[4737.10 --> 4737.34] To -[4737.34 --> 4737.60] Look -[4737.60 --> 4738.42] At -[4744.26 --> 4744.58] In -[4744.58 --> 4744.76] Their -[4744.76 --> 4745.16] Culture -[4745.16 --> 4745.36] And -[4745.36 --> 4745.48] The -[4745.48 --> 4745.82] Impact -[4745.82 --> 4746.04] That -[4746.04 --> 4746.18] They -[4746.18 --> 4746.46] Had -[4746.46 --> 4747.76] And -[4747.76 --> 4747.94] So -[4747.94 --> 4748.12] Many -[4748.12 --> 4748.62] Times -[4748.62 --> 4749.62] When -[4749.62 --> 4749.74] We -[4749.74 --> 4749.86] End -[4749.86 --> 4749.98] Up -[4749.98 --> 4750.26] Talking -[4750.26 --> 4750.44] To -[4750.44 --> 4750.74] People -[4750.74 --> 4751.14] About -[4751.14 --> 4751.74] Giving -[4751.74 --> 4752.12] There's -[4752.12 --> 4752.28] Two -[4752.28 --> 4752.58] Things -[4752.58 --> 4752.80] That -[4752.80 --> 4753.26] Come -[4753.26 --> 4753.48] Out -[4753.48 --> 4753.80] First -[4753.80 --> 4753.96] Of -[4753.96 --> 4754.10] All -[4754.10 --> 4754.44] One -[4754.44 --> 4755.06] What -[4755.06 --> 4755.28] We -[4755.28 --> 4755.64] Give -[4755.64 --> 4755.84] And -[4755.84 --> 4756.10] How -[4756.10 --> 4756.34] You -[4756.34 --> 4756.64] Give -[4756.64 --> 4756.80] Is -[4756.80 --> 4756.92] A -[4756.92 --> 4757.20] Mark -[4757.20 --> 4757.38] Of -[4757.38 --> 4757.56] Your -[4757.56 --> 4758.30] Spiritual -[4758.30 --> 4758.76] Health -[4758.76 --> 4759.78] And -[4759.78 --> 4759.88] So -[4759.88 --> 4760.06] Hear -[4760.06 --> 4760.28] That -[4760.28 --> 4760.48] And -[4760.48 --> 4761.30] Recognize -[4761.30 --> 4761.48] That -[4761.48 --> 4761.62] A -[4761.62 --> 4761.82] Mark -[4761.82 --> 4761.96] Of -[4761.96 --> 4762.12] Your -[4762.12 --> 4762.34] Own -[4762.34 --> 4762.72] Love -[4762.72 --> 4763.42] For -[4763.42 --> 4763.72] Jesus -[4763.72 --> 4764.02] But -[4764.02 --> 4764.34] Two -[4764.34 --> 4765.10] People -[4765.10 --> 4765.36] Will -[4765.36 --> 4765.88] Always -[4765.88 --> 4766.32] Say -[4766.32 --> 4767.30] What -[4767.30 --> 4767.44] If -[4767.44 --> 4767.54] I -[4767.54 --> 4767.66] Get -[4767.66 --> 4768.00] Taken -[4768.00 --> 4768.42] Advantage -[4768.42 --> 4768.72] Of -[4768.72 --> 4771.18] What -[4771.18 --> 4771.28] If -[4771.28 --> 4771.42] We -[4771.42 --> 4771.72] Just -[4771.72 --> 4774.10] Get -[4774.10 --> 4775.12] Taken -[4775.12 --> 4775.50] Advantage -[4775.50 --> 4775.86] Of -[4775.86 --> 4776.22] Don't -[4776.22 --> 4776.34] We -[4776.34 --> 4776.44] Have -[4776.44 --> 4776.54] A -[4776.54 --> 4777.22] Responsibility -[4777.22 --> 4777.48] To -[4777.48 --> 4777.72] Be -[4777.72 --> 4778.68] Stewardly -[4778.68 --> 4779.76] Yes -[4779.76 --> 4779.98] And -[4779.98 --> 4780.30] Amen -[4780.30 --> 4780.50] There -[4780.50 --> 4780.80] Must -[4780.80 --> 4781.02] Be -[4781.02 --> 4781.46] Wisdom -[4781.46 --> 4782.36] But -[4782.36 --> 4782.48] There -[4782.48 --> 4782.60] Is -[4782.60 --> 4782.76] A -[4782.76 --> 4783.10] Story -[4783.10 --> 4784.06] From -[4784.06 --> 4784.20] The -[4784.20 --> 4784.44] Early -[4784.44 --> 4784.72] Church -[4784.72 --> 4784.84] I -[4784.84 --> 4784.94] Think -[4784.94 --> 4785.08] It's -[4785.08 --> 4785.18] From -[4785.18 --> 4785.32] The -[4785.32 --> 4785.58] Second -[4785.58 --> 4786.90] Century -[4786.90 --> 4787.90] Where -[4787.90 --> 4788.18] This -[4788.18 --> 4788.98] Guy -[4788.98 --> 4790.18] Pretends -[4790.18 --> 4790.46] To -[4790.46 --> 4790.92] Be -[4790.92 --> 4791.48] A -[4791.48 --> 4791.96] Christian -[4791.96 --> 4793.22] So -[4793.22 --> 4793.52] That -[4793.52 --> 4793.66] He -[4793.66 --> 4793.78] Can -[4793.78 --> 4793.98] Take -[4793.98 --> 4794.34] Advantage -[4794.34 --> 4794.50] Of -[4794.50 --> 4794.64] The -[4794.64 --> 4794.90] Church -[4794.90 --> 4795.78] And -[4795.78 --> 4795.86] He -[4795.86 --> 4796.16] Writes -[4796.16 --> 4796.44] About -[4796.44 --> 4796.56] It -[4796.56 --> 4796.72] In -[4796.72 --> 4796.96] His -[4796.96 --> 4797.40] Diary -[4797.40 --> 4797.60] And -[4797.60 --> 4797.70] In -[4797.70 --> 4797.88] His -[4797.88 --> 4798.18] Letters -[4798.18 --> 4798.34] To -[4798.34 --> 4798.52] People -[4798.52 --> 4798.64] And -[4798.64 --> 4798.74] We -[4798.74 --> 4798.88] Can -[4798.88 --> 4799.04] I -[4799.04 --> 4799.14] Can -[4799.14 --> 4799.50] Show -[4799.50 --> 4799.62] You -[4799.62 --> 4799.78] The -[4799.78 --> 4800.02] Record -[4800.02 --> 4800.26] This -[4800.26 --> 4800.40] Is -[4800.40 --> 4800.88] Like -[4800.88 --> 4801.04] We -[4801.04 --> 4801.18] Can -[4801.18 --> 4801.60] Record -[4801.60 --> 4801.86] This -[4801.86 --> 4802.12] It's -[4802.12 --> 4802.62] There -[4802.62 --> 4802.82] For -[4802.82 --> 4803.00] Us -[4803.00 --> 4803.14] To -[4803.14 --> 4803.38] Read -[4803.38 --> 4804.14] And -[4804.14 --> 4804.28] He -[4804.28 --> 4804.62] Writes -[4804.62 --> 4805.04] To -[4805.04 --> 4805.24] His -[4805.24 --> 4805.50] Friends -[4805.50 --> 4805.64] And -[4805.64 --> 4805.76] He -[4805.76 --> 4806.00] Says -[4806.00 --> 4806.56] Look -[4806.56 --> 4806.82] I -[4806.82 --> 4807.04] Have -[4807.04 --> 4807.48] Spent -[4807.48 --> 4808.28] A -[4808.28 --> 4808.62] Year -[4808.62 --> 4808.96] Going -[4808.96 --> 4809.30] Through -[4809.30 --> 4809.68] This -[4809.68 --> 4810.40] Catechism -[4810.40 --> 4810.96] Class -[4810.96 --> 4811.40] So -[4811.40 --> 4811.56] That -[4811.56 --> 4811.66] I -[4811.66 --> 4811.76] Can -[4811.76 --> 4812.04] Become -[4812.04 --> 4812.32] Part -[4812.32 --> 4812.40] Of -[4812.40 --> 4812.52] The -[4812.52 --> 4812.74] Church -[4812.74 --> 4813.02] Because -[4813.02 --> 4813.24] I -[4813.24 --> 4813.42] Have -[4813.42 --> 4813.56] He -[4813.56 --> 4813.86] That -[4813.86 --> 4814.06] These -[4814.06 --> 4814.48] Christians -[4814.48 --> 4814.96] Will -[4825.86 --> 4826.42] Part -[4826.42 --> 4826.54] Of -[4826.54 --> 4826.68] A -[4826.68 --> 4826.88] Church -[4826.88 --> 4827.20] Community -[4827.20 --> 4827.36] He -[4827.36 --> 4827.56] Goes -[4827.56 --> 4827.72] Through -[4827.72 --> 4827.84] The -[4827.84 --> 4828.12] Class -[4828.12 --> 4828.24] And -[4828.24 --> 4828.38] He -[4828.38 --> 4828.92] Writes -[4828.92 --> 4829.44] Alongside -[4829.44 --> 4829.58] This -[4829.58 --> 4829.76] Whole -[4829.76 --> 4829.88] Way -[4829.88 --> 4829.98] That -[4829.98 --> 4830.06] He -[4830.06 --> 4830.20] Is -[4830.20 --> 4830.68] Faking -[4830.68 --> 4830.92] It -[4830.92 --> 4831.38] So -[4831.38 --> 4831.64] That -[4831.64 --> 4831.80] He -[4831.80 --> 4832.00] Can -[4832.00 --> 4832.36] Take -[4832.36 --> 4832.90] Their -[4832.90 --> 4833.50] Wealth -[4833.50 --> 4833.66] And -[4833.66 --> 4833.82] He -[4833.82 --> 4834.18] Hoards -[4834.18 --> 4834.40] That -[4834.40 --> 4834.76] Away -[4834.76 --> 4835.38] From -[4835.38 --> 4835.82] Himself -[4835.82 --> 4838.48] And -[4838.48 --> 4838.60] He -[4838.60 --> 4839.18] Celebrates -[4839.18 --> 4839.40] It -[4839.40 --> 4840.00] That -[4840.00 --> 4840.10] He -[4840.10 --> 4840.26] Took -[4840.26 --> 4840.62] Advantage -[4840.62 --> 4840.80] Of -[4840.80 --> 4841.08] This -[4841.08 --> 4842.02] Church -[4842.02 --> 4842.22] And -[4842.22 --> 4842.38] This -[4842.38 --> 4842.60] Group -[4842.60 --> 4842.86] Of -[4842.86 --> 4843.32] Believers -[4843.32 --> 4844.82] And -[4844.82 --> 4844.90] What -[4844.90 --> 4845.00] We -[4845.00 --> 4845.24] Also -[4845.24 --> 4845.42] Know -[4845.42 --> 4845.62] From -[4845.62 --> 4845.78] That -[4845.78 --> 4846.16] Story -[4846.16 --> 4846.42] Is -[4846.42 --> 4846.66] That -[4846.66 --> 4847.30] That -[4847.30 --> 4847.62] Church -[4847.62 --> 4848.18] Eventually -[4848.18 --> 4848.50] Gets -[4848.50 --> 4848.92] Gathered -[4848.92 --> 4849.12] Up -[4849.12 --> 4849.32] In -[4849.32 --> 4849.44] A -[4849.44 --> 4849.68] Form -[4849.68 --> 4849.88] Of -[4849.88 --> 4850.48] Persecution -[4850.48 --> 4850.64] That -[4850.64 --> 4850.74] Was -[4850.74 --> 4850.98] Taking -[4850.98 --> 4851.30] Place -[4851.30 --> 4851.46] And -[4851.46 --> 4851.74] He -[4851.74 --> 4852.26] Gets -[4852.26 --> 4852.62] Gathered -[4852.62 --> 4852.74] Up -[4852.74 --> 4853.30] With -[4853.30 --> 4853.54] Them -[4853.54 --> 4854.74] And -[4854.74 --> 4854.88] He -[4854.88 --> 4855.08] Ends -[4855.08 --> 4855.24] Up -[4855.24 --> 4855.38] In -[4855.38 --> 4855.72] Prison -[4855.72 --> 4856.84] And -[4856.84 --> 4856.98] He -[4856.98 --> 4857.56] Recants -[4857.56 --> 4857.80] His -[4857.80 --> 4858.10] Faith -[4858.10 --> 4858.36] Saying -[4858.36 --> 4858.50] I -[4858.50 --> 4858.74] Never -[4858.74 --> 4859.14] Believed -[4859.14 --> 4859.42] This -[4859.42 --> 4859.96] Here -[4859.96 --> 4860.10] Are -[4860.10 --> 4860.22] The -[4860.22 --> 4860.48] Letters -[4860.48 --> 4860.64] That -[4860.64 --> 4860.66] I -[4860.66 --> 4861.12] Shown -[4861.12 --> 4861.72] And -[4861.72 --> 4862.06] They -[4862.06 --> 4862.36] Don't -[4862.36 --> 4862.72] Believe -[4862.72 --> 4863.00] Him -[4863.00 --> 4864.28] And -[4864.28 --> 4864.36] So -[4864.36 --> 4864.50] He -[4864.50 --> 4864.76] Slated -[4864.76 --> 4864.90] To -[4864.90 --> 4865.02] Be -[4865.02 --> 4865.28] Killed -[4865.28 --> 4866.36] But -[4866.36 --> 4866.60] Another -[4866.60 --> 4866.82] One -[4866.82 --> 4866.94] Of -[4866.94 --> 4867.06] The -[4867.06 --> 4867.42] Christians -[4867.42 --> 4867.80] Comes -[4867.80 --> 4868.02] And -[4868.02 --> 4868.60] Exchanges -[4868.60 --> 4868.92] His -[4868.92 --> 4869.34] Life -[4869.34 --> 4870.06] For -[4870.06 --> 4870.26] That -[4870.26 --> 4870.54] Man -[4870.54 --> 4872.32] Offers -[4872.32 --> 4872.78] Himself -[4872.78 --> 4873.02] In -[4873.02 --> 4873.18] His -[4873.18 --> 4873.46] Place -[4873.46 --> 4873.62] And -[4879.44 --> 4880.58] His -[4880.58 --> 4880.88] Story -[4880.88 --> 4881.50] Changed -[4881.50 --> 4882.26] Because -[4882.26 --> 4882.40] The -[4882.40 --> 4882.54] Church -[4882.54 --> 4882.76] Didn't -[4882.76 --> 4882.98] Care -[4882.98 --> 4883.16] About -[4883.16 --> 4883.32] Being -[4883.32 --> 4883.62] Taken -[4883.62 --> 4883.98] Advantage -[4883.98 --> 4884.20] Of -[4884.20 --> 4884.58] It -[4884.58 --> 4884.96] Loved -[4884.96 --> 4885.12] The -[4885.12 --> 4885.26] Way -[4885.26 --> 4885.56] Jesus -[4885.56 --> 4886.00] Loved -[4886.00 --> 4886.32] And -[4886.32 --> 4886.68] Found -[4886.68 --> 4887.26] Itself -[4887.26 --> 4887.72] In -[4887.72 --> 4887.92] That -[4887.92 --> 4888.24] Moment -[4888.24 --> 4888.70] And -[4888.70 --> 4888.82] In -[4888.82 --> 4888.98] That -[4888.98 --> 4889.68] Opportunity -[4889.68 --> 4892.60] In -[4892.60 --> 4892.86] Acts -[4892.86 --> 4893.22] 2 -[4893.22 --> 4894.02] After -[4894.02 --> 4894.30] We -[4894.30 --> 4894.98] Read -[4894.98 --> 4895.28] All -[4895.28 --> 4895.46] The -[4895.46 --> 4895.96] Habits -[4895.96 --> 4896.18] And -[4896.18 --> 4896.32] The -[4896.32 --> 4897.10] Practices -[4897.10 --> 4897.30] That -[4897.30 --> 4897.42] The -[4897.42 --> 4897.70] Early -[4897.70 --> 4898.02] Church -[4898.02 --> 4898.22] Was -[4898.22 --> 4898.58] Devoted -[4898.58 --> 4898.88] To -[4898.88 --> 4899.62] God -[4899.62 --> 4900.06] Says -[4900.06 --> 4900.24] The -[4900.24 --> 4900.60] Lord -[4900.60 --> 4901.06] Added -[4901.06 --> 4901.22] To -[4901.22 --> 4901.42] Their -[4901.42 --> 4901.72] Number -[4901.72 --> 4902.26] Daily -[4902.26 --> 4903.02] Those -[4903.02 --> 4903.20] Who -[4903.20 --> 4903.32] Were -[4903.32 --> 4903.66] Being -[4903.66 --> 4904.48] Saved -[4904.48 --> 4906.68] This -[4906.68 --> 4907.22] Kind -[4907.22 --> 4907.44] Of -[4907.44 --> 4908.04] Community -[4908.04 --> 4908.76] This -[4908.76 --> 4909.36] Holy -[4909.36 --> 4910.06] Habit -[4910.06 --> 4910.82] Spirit -[4910.82 --> 4911.56] Filled -[4911.56 --> 4912.64] Generous -[4912.64 --> 4913.28] Community -[4913.28 --> 4913.68] Willing -[4913.68 --> 4913.80] To -[4913.80 --> 4913.98] Give -[4913.98 --> 4914.10] Of -[4914.10 --> 4914.42] Itself -[4914.42 --> 4914.60] And -[4914.60 --> 4914.74] Give -[4914.74 --> 4914.90] Its -[4914.90 --> 4915.20] Life -[4915.20 --> 4915.50] Up -[4915.50 --> 4916.06] For -[4916.06 --> 4916.40] Another -[4916.40 --> 4916.90] Is -[4916.90 --> 4917.08] The -[4917.08 --> 4917.46] Kind -[4917.46 --> 4917.66] Of -[4917.66 --> 4918.08] Community -[4918.08 --> 4918.38] That -[4918.38 --> 4918.94] Draws -[4918.94 --> 4919.68] People -[4919.68 --> 4920.16] To -[4920.16 --> 4920.60] God -[4920.60 --> 4922.50] And -[4922.50 --> 4922.64] It's -[4922.64 --> 4922.74] The -[4922.74 --> 4922.96] Kind -[4922.96 --> 4923.08] Of -[4923.08 --> 4923.48] Community -[4923.48 --> 4923.78] I -[4923.78 --> 4924.06] Pray -[4924.06 --> 4924.28] That -[4924.28 --> 4924.46] We -[4924.46 --> 4924.68] Can -[4924.68 --> 4925.42] Continue -[4925.42 --> 4926.84] To -[4926.84 --> 4927.00] Be -[4927.00 --> 4928.92] We -[4928.92 --> 4929.06] Have -[4929.06 --> 4929.30] Seen -[4929.30 --> 4929.68] God's -[4929.68 --> 4930.14] Faithfulness -[4930.14 --> 4930.40] We -[4930.40 --> 4930.56] Have -[4930.56 --> 4930.96] Used -[4930.96 --> 4931.24] Been -[4931.24 --> 4931.52] Used -[4931.52 --> 4931.72] Of -[4931.72 --> 4931.90] Him -[4931.90 --> 4932.14] To -[4932.14 --> 4932.46] Be -[4932.46 --> 4933.32] Faithful -[4933.32 --> 4933.58] And -[4933.58 --> 4933.94] So -[4933.94 --> 4934.34] May -[4934.34 --> 4935.02] We -[4935.02 --> 4935.80] Go -[4935.80 --> 4937.22] As -[4937.22 --> 4937.48] His -[4937.48 --> 4938.00] Faithfulness -[4938.00 --> 4938.38] To -[4938.38 --> 4938.54] The -[4938.54 --> 4938.86] World -[4938.86 --> 4939.84] Revealing -[4939.84 --> 4940.16] His -[4940.16 --> 4940.54] Kingdom -[4940.54 --> 4941.02] Come -[4941.02 --> 4941.30] And -[4941.30 --> 4941.58] His -[4941.58 --> 4941.90] Kingdom -[4941.90 --> 4942.36] Coming -[4942.36 --> 4943.38] Revealing -[4943.38 --> 4943.76] That -[4943.76 --> 4944.04] We -[4944.04 --> 4944.76] Love -[4944.76 --> 4945.54] Jesus -[4945.54 --> 4946.16] And -[4946.16 --> 4946.38] So -[4946.38 --> 4946.66] We -[4946.66 --> 4947.38] Seek -[4947.38 --> 4948.38] First -[4948.38 --> 4949.26] His -[4949.26 --> 4950.28] Kingdom -[4950.28 --> 4951.00] Amen -[4951.00 --> 4952.68] All -[4952.68 --> 4952.76] You -[4952.76 --> 4952.86] Can -[4952.86 --> 4953.82] You -[4953.82 --> 4953.90] Can -[4953.90 --> 4955.10] You -[4955.10 --> 4955.62] Let's -[4955.62 --> 4955.76] Pray -[4955.76 --> 4956.08] Together -[4956.08 --> 4958.72] Holy -[4958.72 --> 4959.04] God -[4959.04 --> 4959.38] Lord -[4959.38 --> 4959.98] Jesus -[4959.98 --> 4960.76] Christ -[4960.76 --> 4961.96] Inspire -[4961.96 --> 4962.50] Us -[4962.50 --> 4962.94] By -[4962.94 --> 4963.18] Your -[4963.18 --> 4963.76] Gospel -[4963.76 --> 4965.26] Move -[4965.26 --> 4965.52] In -[4965.52 --> 4965.94] Us -[4965.94 --> 4966.30] By -[4966.30 --> 4966.54] Your -[4966.54 --> 4967.12] Spirit -[4967.12 --> 4967.88] Transform -[4967.88 --> 4968.76] Us -[4968.76 --> 4969.22] Even -[4969.22 --> 4969.78] As -[4969.78 --> 4970.14] We -[4970.14 --> 4971.16] Are -[4971.16 --> 4971.40] Being -[4971.40 --> 4972.08] Transformed -[4972.08 --> 4973.74] Renew -[4973.74 --> 4974.02] Our -[4974.02 --> 4974.52] Minds -[4974.52 --> 4974.66] And -[4974.66 --> 4974.98] Renew -[4974.98 --> 4975.26] Our -[4975.26 --> 4975.72] Lives -[4975.72 --> 4975.98] So -[4975.98 --> 4976.12] That -[4976.12 --> 4976.30] We -[4976.30 --> 4976.58] Might -[4976.58 --> 4976.92] Offer -[4976.92 --> 4977.20] Them -[4977.20 --> 4977.52] As -[4977.52 --> 4977.80] A -[4977.80 --> 4978.58] Sacrifice -[4978.58 --> 4979.36] Of -[4979.36 --> 4979.80] Praise -[4979.80 --> 4980.98] So -[4980.98 --> 4981.06] That -[4981.06 --> 4981.18] We -[4981.18 --> 4981.44] Might -[4981.44 --> 4981.78] Give -[4981.78 --> 4982.12] Of -[4982.12 --> 4982.92] Ourselves -[4982.92 --> 4983.44] For -[4983.44 --> 4984.44] You -[4984.44 --> 4984.86] And -[4984.86 --> 4985.16] Your -[4985.16 --> 4985.58] Work -[4985.58 --> 4986.22] In -[4986.22 --> 4986.34] The -[4986.34 --> 4986.58] World -[4986.58 --> 4986.82] We -[4986.82 --> 4987.24] Love -[4987.24 --> 4987.52] You -[4987.52 --> 4987.88] Lord -[4987.88 --> 4988.32] Jesus -[4988.32 --> 4988.82] And -[4988.82 --> 4989.02] May -[4989.02 --> 4989.34] That -[4989.34 --> 4989.84] Love -[4989.84 --> 4990.46] Be -[4990.46 --> 4991.04] Evident -[4991.04 --> 4991.56] To -[4991.56 --> 4991.90] All -[4991.90 --> 4992.72] This -[4992.72 --> 4993.40] Is -[4993.40 --> 4993.96] Our -[4993.96 --> 4994.92] Prayer -[4994.92 --> 4995.30] In -[4995.30 --> 4995.70] Jesus -[4995.70 --> 4996.18] Name -[4996.18 --> 4996.42] We -[4996.42 --> 4996.74] Pray -[4996.74 --> 4997.96] Amen -[4997.96 --> 5006.44] Just -[5006.44 --> 5006.72] Rise -[5006.72 --> 5006.92] With -[5006.92 --> 5007.14] Us -[5007.14 --> 5007.34] And -[5007.34 --> 5007.74] We'll -[5007.74 --> 5008.38] Sing -[5008.38 --> 5008.54] A -[5008.54 --> 5008.80] Song -[5008.80 --> 5009.04] Of -[5009.04 --> 5009.46] Love -[5021.90 --> 5025.86] We -[5025.86 --> 5026.26] Are -[5026.26 --> 5027.24] One -[5027.24 --> 5027.66] In -[5027.66 --> 5028.00] The -[5028.00 --> 5028.62] Spirit -[5028.62 --> 5029.30] We -[5029.30 --> 5029.70] Are -[5029.70 --> 5030.62] One -[5030.62 --> 5031.04] In -[5031.04 --> 5031.40] The -[5031.40 --> 5031.86] Lord -[5031.86 --> 5032.50] We -[5032.50 --> 5033.06] Are -[5033.06 --> 5034.04] One -[5034.04 --> 5034.42] In -[5034.42 --> 5034.74] The -[5034.74 --> 5035.36] Spirit -[5035.36 --> 5036.08] We -[5036.08 --> 5036.46] Are -[5036.46 --> 5037.36] One -[5037.36 --> 5037.76] In -[5037.76 --> 5038.14] The -[5038.14 --> 5038.60] Lord -[5038.60 --> 5039.36] And -[5039.36 --> 5039.62] We -[5039.62 --> 5040.50] Pray -[5040.50 --> 5041.14] That -[5041.14 --> 5041.48] All -[5041.48 --> 5042.28] Unity -[5042.28 --> 5043.14] Will -[5043.14 --> 5043.60] One -[5043.60 --> 5043.96] Day -[5043.96 --> 5044.44] Be -[5044.44 --> 5045.36] Restored -[5045.36 --> 5046.08] And -[5046.08 --> 5046.52] They'll -[5046.52 --> 5047.12] Know -[5047.12 --> 5047.72] We -[5047.72 --> 5048.06] Are -[5048.06 --> 5048.86] Christians -[5048.86 --> 5049.44] By -[5049.44 --> 5049.82] Our -[5049.82 --> 5050.38] Love -[5050.38 --> 5051.12] By -[5051.12 --> 5051.54] Our -[5051.54 --> 5052.36] Love -[5052.36 --> 5052.72] Yes -[5052.72 --> 5053.20] They'll -[5053.20 --> 5053.66] Know -[5053.66 --> 5054.48] We -[5054.48 --> 5054.84] Are -[5054.84 --> 5055.52] Christians -[5055.52 --> 5056.12] By -[5056.12 --> 5056.58] Our -[5056.58 --> 5057.34] Love -[5057.34 --> 5059.34] We -[5059.34 --> 5059.82] Will -[5059.82 --> 5060.72] Walk -[5060.72 --> 5061.22] With -[5061.22 --> 5061.64] Each -[5061.64 --> 5062.30] Other -[5062.30 --> 5062.74] We -[5062.74 --> 5063.18] Will -[5063.18 --> 5064.10] Walk -[5064.10 --> 5064.60] Hand -[5064.60 --> 5064.98] In -[5064.98 --> 5065.44] Hand -[5065.44 --> 5066.08] We -[5066.08 --> 5066.56] Will -[5066.56 --> 5067.48] Walk -[5067.48 --> 5067.98] With -[5067.98 --> 5068.40] Each -[5068.40 --> 5069.04] Other -[5069.04 --> 5069.46] We -[5069.46 --> 5069.92] Will -[5069.92 --> 5070.52] Walk -[5070.52 --> 5071.32] Hand -[5071.32 --> 5071.72] In -[5071.72 --> 5072.24] Hand -[5072.24 --> 5072.98] And -[5072.98 --> 5073.36] We'll -[5073.36 --> 5074.30] Gather -[5074.30 --> 5075.02] We'll -[5075.02 --> 5075.50] Spread -[5075.50 --> 5075.78] The -[5075.78 --> 5076.22] News -[5076.22 --> 5076.72] That -[5076.72 --> 5077.28] God -[5077.28 --> 5077.68] Is -[5077.68 --> 5077.94] In -[5077.94 --> 5078.28] Our -[5078.28 --> 5078.90] Land -[5078.90 --> 5079.66] And -[5079.66 --> 5080.08] They'll -[5080.08 --> 5080.76] Know -[5080.76 --> 5081.26] We -[5081.26 --> 5081.72] Are -[5081.72 --> 5082.46] Christians -[5082.46 --> 5083.04] By -[5083.04 --> 5083.34] Our -[5083.34 --> 5083.88] Love -[5083.88 --> 5084.58] By -[5084.58 --> 5085.02] Our -[5085.02 --> 5085.92] Love -[5085.92 --> 5086.32] Yes -[5086.32 --> 5086.82] They'll -[5086.82 --> 5087.26] Know -[5087.26 --> 5087.94] We -[5087.94 --> 5088.34] Are -[5088.34 --> 5089.10] Christians -[5089.10 --> 5089.68] By -[5089.68 --> 5090.16] Our -[5090.16 --> 5091.26] Love -[5091.26 --> 5092.26] Love -[5092.36 --> 5092.74] These -[5092.74 --> 5093.16] quelle -[5093.16 --> 5095.08] We -[5095.08 --> 5106.14] ري -[5121.26 --> 5124.70] we are christians -[5126.38 --> 5140.22] all praise to the father from whom all things come and all praise to christ jesus his only son -[5140.22 --> 5151.18] and all praise to the spirit who makes us one and they'll know we are christians by our -[5151.26 --> 5161.26] love -[5169.10 --> 5177.18] as you go this week go in love with jesus and go revealing jesus love to the world god goes with -[5177.18 --> 5187.10] you and so receive his blessing for the days and weeks ahead god go before you to guide you god go -[5187.10 --> 5196.06] behind you to protect you god go beneath you to hold you up and support you and god go beside you -[5196.06 --> 5205.74] to befriend you do not be afraid let the blessing of god come upon you today do not be afraid but go -[5205.74 --> 5219.74] in peace to love and serve the lord by seeking his kingdom first amen -[5219.74 --> 5231.74] you're the lion of judah the lamb who was you descended to heaven and never more will reign -[5231.74 --> 5241.74] at the end of the age when the earth you will claim and gather the nations before you -[5241.74 --> 5253.74] and the eyes of all men will be fixed on the lamb who was crucified -[5253.74 --> 5267.74] with wisdom and mercy and justice you'll reign as you fall -[5267.74 --> 5273.74] and the angels will cry -[5273.74 --> 5277.74] and the angels will cry -[5277.74 --> 5291.74] and the angels who was slain for the world and rule in power and the earth will reply -[5291.74 --> 5305.74] all in the earth will reply you shall reign as the kingdom of all kings and the lord of all lords -[5305.74 --> 5316.50] There's a shield in our hand and a sword at our side -[5316.50 --> 5320.84] There's a fire in our spirits that cannot be denied -[5320.84 --> 5325.34] As the Father has told us, for these you have died -[5325.34 --> 5329.16] For the nations have gathered before you -[5329.16 --> 5335.34] And the ears of all men need to hear of the Lamb who was groomed -[5335.74 --> 5337.74] crucified -[5337.74 --> 5346.74] Who descended to hell yet was raised up to reign at the Father's side -[5346.74 --> 5353.74] And the angels will cry, hail the Lamb -[5353.74 --> 5363.74] Who was slain for the world's ruling by -[5363.74 --> 5371.74] And the earth will reply, you shall reign -[5371.74 --> 5377.74] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords -[5377.74 --> 5385.74] And the angels will cry, hail the Lamb -[5385.74 --> 5391.74] Who was slain for the world's ruling by -[5391.74 --> 5401.74] And the earth will reply, you shall reign -[5401.74 --> 5407.74] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords -[5407.74 --> 5415.74] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords -[5415.74 --> 5425.74] The King of all kings and the Lord of all lords -[5425.74 --> 5443.38] Hail the David Brilë то- -[5443.74 --> 5447.74] Christ is a candles red by the Lamb -[5447.74 --> 5477.72] Thank you. -[5477.74 --> 5507.72] Thank you. -[5507.74 --> 5537.72] Thank you. -[5537.74 --> 5567.72] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 31, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 31, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c4e672266e7ebb3d1d26bf60eb79e95300b7edd1..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 31, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,101 +0,0 @@ -• Worship song with repetitive lyrics about coming alive, resurrection power, and breaking free from the grave -• Pastor Chris introduces himself and welcomes visitors to the service -• He explains how worship is available for all, including those visiting or seeking prayer or questions about faith -• Discussion of upcoming events in the church's worship schedule -• Lord's Supper service announced for August 7 -• Preparation for worship and receiving communion emphasized -• Psalm 73 referenced as call to worship -• Song lyrics referencing Jesus as hope, light, and truth sung -• Congregation invited to stand and receive God's greeting -• Communion prayers and music sung -• Jesus Christ's victory over death and salvation -• Boasting in the cross of Christ rather than self-achievement -• Resting in Jesus' sacrifice and forgiveness -• The power of prayer for spiritual renewal and humility -• Praise and worship songs about Jesus Christ as living hope -• Reflection on the mercy and grace of God, including salvation through Jesus Christ -• Celebration of freedom from sin and death through Jesus Christ's love and sacrifice -• Introduction of Jim Calamance from Langley Food Bank -• Thanking the church for their contribution and showing slides of the donated items -• Discussing the food bank's faith-based mission and desire to share Christ with clients -• Sharing a story about Ben from Freshco providing halal chickens and other donations -• Talking about God's provision through Ben and Freshco, including $6,500 worth of gift cards -• Christmas present distribution for clients' children -• Adaptation of food bank services due to COVID, including tents and volunteers -• Langley Food Bank's setup and operations -• Christmas Eve service in the parking lot -• Client success story: an Indo-Canadian family coming to faith through the ministry -• Offerings collected for manual budget and University Campus Ministries -• Invocation with prayer for children's worship time -• Invitation for preschool-age children to attend children's worship -• Blessing of older kids who choose to stay in the main service -• Discussion of upcoming parables from Jesus -• Prayer for children going to children's worship and their teachers/helpers -• Family prayer, sharing gratitude for morning time and reflection on personal blessings and challenges -• Introduction and personal anecdote about Harry -• Congratulation to Nathan and Maria Klein-Geltink on their new baby -• Announcement about air conditioning in the building -• Family prayer led by the speaker -• Prayer for kingdom come, peace, forgiveness, and daily bread -• Request for God's spirit to work in world leaders to make peace, human rights, and an end to hunger a priority -• Acknowledgement of the church's community and blessings -• Request for safety on vacation and travel for those away -• Comfort and peace for those missing loved ones during summer season -• Conclusion of prayer with blessing and amen -• Reading from Matthew 25 in the Bible -• The speaker shares a personal anecdote about building model airplanes with their father -• A parable from Matthew 25 is read, telling the story of three servants given different amounts of gold to manage while their master is away -• The parable illustrates the importance of being faithful and responsible with what one has been given -• Jesus' use of parables to teach and instruct is discussed, highlighting that he aims to reveal truth to those who seek it -• A theme from the parable is explored: living with a focus on the kingdom of heaven can make one more ready to live rightly in the present world -• The idea that being "heavenly-minded" does not mean being disconnected from earthly concerns, but rather enables one to be most beneficial for others. -• Parable of the bags of gold in Matthew 25 -• Context and background of chapters 24 and 25 of Matthew -• Kingdom of heaven and end of the world -• Judgment, renewal, and reward or punishment -• Impact on life priorities based on understanding the kingdom of heaven and the end of the world -• Jesus' prediction of the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem (Matthew 24:1-2) -• Abomination that causes desolation (Daniel 9:27) -• Historical fulfillment of this prophecy in 167 BC under Antiochus IV Epiphanes -• Second, future fulfillment of the abomination prophecy by Jesus -• Time frame for this event according to Jesus (Matthew 24:34) -• Destruction of Jerusalem and its temple in A.D. 70 -• Josephus' account of the destruction of the Temple and Jerusalem -• Jesus' teaching on the end times in Matthew 24-25 -• Multiple interpretations of the parable of the talents or bags of gold -• The importance of understanding the kingdom of heaven as both present and future -• The connection between faith, new creation realities, and the promise of eternal life -• Jesus' return was expected to happen soon after his death and resurrection -• The early disciples were mistaken in their timing, but still believed Jesus would return -• Matthew's parable aims to reassure the early disciples of Jesus' eventual return -• The concept of judgment is discussed, including both punishment and reward -• Judgment requires wisdom, accountability, and a standard of right and wrong -• Scripture emphasizes the importance of not judging others hastily or with personal preferences, but rather holding them accountable to God's standards -• Directed and focused judgments as a church -• Practicing discipline and discipleship together -• Calling each other back to holiness and God's design for life -• Proper outworking of love that God has for us, keeping commandments -• Fixing eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith -• Judgments at return of Christ, faithful in mission, kingdom, and proclamation -• 1 Peter chapter 1 verse 17, living with reverent fear and proper submission to God -• Ephesians, serving wholeheartedly as if serving Lord, not people -• No favoritism with God, whether slave or master -• No condemnation for those in Christ Jesus our Lord -• Wrath of God borne by Jesus on the cross, justification and salvation -• God giving us himself, everything we didn't deserve -• Nothing too great to ask in return, following Jesus costs everything -• Well done, good and faithful servant, living for well done -• The speaker reflects on the idea that turning 40 is considered old age -• They recall their 33rd birthday and the significance of Jesus dying at that age, making them wonder what following Jesus would cost them -• The speaker discusses how being a disciple of Jesus comes with a cost, not just for themselves but also for those around them, including family members who have to bear the consequences of their decisions -• They believe that the kingdom of heaven and God's glory are worth more than any earthly reward or comfort, making the cost of discipleship worthwhile -• Calling to bear the cost of discipleship -• Seeking power and willingness for spiritual journey -• Consecrating one's life, time, and abilities to God -• Acknowledging dependence on God's guidance and protection -• Praising God as King eternal, immortal, invisible, and wise -• Praise to the King eternal -• Glory and honor forever -• Forever in worship -• Amen repeated multiple times -• Expression of gratitude with "thank you" repeated \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 31, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 31, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 4b851549efe6d9555a14a33d71ff2efa6d8de5d8..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 31, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1227 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 4.92] Come to life, come alive, come alive -[4.92 --> 8.30] Let dry bones come alive -[8.30 --> 16.34] Out of darkness you brought victory -[16.34 --> 22.94] Tore the veil and made a way for me -[22.94 --> 29.44] Now I'm standing with the risen king -[29.44 --> 32.16] Staring at an empty tomb -[32.16 --> 35.20] Jesus, you're the living proof -[35.20 --> 38.58] There's nothing that you cannot do -[38.58 --> 42.94] I'm ready, God, to see you go -[42.94 --> 46.42] There's resurrection power -[46.42 --> 49.74] Right here to make it out -[49.74 --> 53.00] Let the things come to life -[53.00 --> 55.80] Tribbles come alive -[55.80 --> 59.26] The one who emptied the grave -[59.26 --> 62.34] Is here to do the same -[62.34 --> 65.32] Let dead things come to life -[65.32 --> 68.48] Let dry bones come alive -[68.48 --> 71.96] Come alive, come alive -[71.96 --> 75.48] Let dead things come to life -[75.48 --> 78.48] Come alive, come alive -[78.48 --> 81.40] Let dry bones come alive -[81.40 --> 84.26] Come alive, come alive -[84.26 --> 87.48] Let dead things come alive -[87.48 --> 90.32] Come alive, come alive -[90.32 --> 93.48] Let dry bones come alive -[93.48 --> 97.32] Hey, oh, coming to life -[97.32 --> 106.54] Oh, coming to life -[106.54 --> 107.38] Oh, coming to life -[107.38 --> 110.02] I'm running out of the grave -[110.02 --> 113.20] I'm running out of the grave -[113.20 --> 116.26] Sickness, get out of my way -[116.26 --> 117.48] There's healing, there's healing -[117.48 --> 119.14] There's healing, there's healing -[119.14 --> 120.42] Oh, yes, there is -[120.42 --> 122.80] I'm running out of the grave -[122.80 --> 125.48] I'm running out of the stronghold -[125.48 --> 126.98] You gotta move -[126.98 --> 128.98] Stronghold, next time that you pray -[128.98 --> 132.06] There's freedom, there's freedom -[132.06 --> 134.06] There's freedom here -[134.06 --> 136.20] I'm running out of the grave -[136.20 --> 138.20] I'm running out of the grave -[138.20 --> 141.20] Sickness, get out of my way -[141.20 --> 144.06] There's healing, there's healing -[144.06 --> 148.20] I'm running out of the grave -[148.20 --> 151.20] I'm running out of the grave -[151.20 --> 154.20] Strongholds, next time that you pray -[154.20 --> 158.70] There's freedom, there's freedom here -[158.70 --> 161.72] Come alive, come alive -[161.72 --> 165.08] Let dead things come to life -[165.08 --> 168.10] Come alive, come alive -[168.10 --> 171.30] Death Tribals come alive -[171.30 --> 174.44] Come alive, come alive -[174.44 --> 177.92] Let dead things come to life -[177.92 --> 180.94] Come alive, come alive -[180.94 --> 183.22] Death Tribals come alive -[183.22 --> 190.32] Let the resurrection power right here is breaking out. -[190.62 --> 193.30] Let death things come to life. -[193.76 --> 196.54] Let tribons come alive. -[197.40 --> 203.32] The world who left his grave is here to do the same. -[203.32 --> 206.10] Let death things come to life. -[206.58 --> 209.72] Let tribons come alive. -[210.06 --> 211.12] Come alive. -[211.72 --> 212.72] Come alive. -[213.22 --> 215.66] Let death things come to life. -[216.56 --> 217.60] Come alive. -[218.08 --> 219.14] Come alive. -[219.54 --> 222.24] Let tribons come alive. -[222.44 --> 222.70] Hey! -[222.96 --> 223.94] Come alive. -[224.18 --> 225.54] Come alive. -[226.04 --> 228.96] Let death things come to life. -[229.40 --> 230.32] Come alive. -[230.66 --> 231.98] Come alive. -[231.98 --> 234.76] Let tribons come alive. -[238.34 --> 240.52] You are ready to run out of my grave. -[240.90 --> 242.98] You're ready to dance out of my grave. -[242.98 --> 250.90] I'm running out of the grave -[250.90 --> 257.22] Sickness getting out of my way -[257.22 --> 260.16] Oh, you're healing tea tonight -[260.16 --> 263.58] I'm running out of the grave -[263.58 --> 266.70] I'm running out of the grave -[266.70 --> 269.86] Stronghold is time to break -[269.86 --> 272.92] Cause there's freedom, there's freedom -[272.92 --> 276.54] I'm running out of the grave -[276.54 --> 282.78] Sickness getting out of my way -[282.78 --> 285.94] Let's feel it, let's feel it -[285.94 --> 289.36] I'm running out of the grave -[289.36 --> 295.32] Stronghold is time to break -[295.32 --> 298.48] Let's feel it, let's feel it -[298.48 --> 302.04] I'm dancing out of the grave -[302.04 --> 305.08] Good morning, how's everyone doing? -[307.00 --> 310.46] All right, we're hot and a little slow this morning -[310.46 --> 317.06] It's a long weekend, so we've already doubled the number of people I thought we were going to have here this morning -[317.06 --> 320.24] So excellent work, thanks for joining with us -[320.24 --> 322.86] If you are here visiting this morning -[322.86 --> 325.42] My name is Chris, I'm one of the pastors here -[325.42 --> 334.98] And it's my privilege along with these others on stage and a few yet more to lead in our worship together this morning -[334.98 --> 340.38] Before we begin, if you are visiting, we have these cards available on the back desks there -[340.38 --> 342.92] And there's a QR code you can scan -[342.92 --> 345.38] This is a way for us to connect with you -[345.38 --> 350.66] And if you have anything you'd like prayer over or you have questions about faith or church or the like -[350.66 --> 357.00] We're happy to take that and interact with you as you are able and we can together -[357.00 --> 361.36] As well, next week in our worship together -[361.36 --> 363.94] And this is a little bit off schedule -[363.94 --> 365.48] So make sure that you hear this -[365.48 --> 367.68] Next week in our worship together -[367.68 --> 369.10] We will be having Lord's Supper -[369.10 --> 373.08] And so that's the first Sunday of the month -[373.08 --> 375.32] Not the second Sunday when we normally do it -[375.32 --> 378.52] But because of vacation schedules and visiting pastors and the like -[378.52 --> 381.78] We wanted to do that next Sunday -[381.78 --> 383.58] So that's August 7 -[383.58 --> 386.24] August 7 we will be having Lord's Supper -[386.24 --> 389.20] And so please spend the next week preparing your hearts -[389.20 --> 392.14] If you have kids, talk to them about what that means -[392.14 --> 396.64] And how we can come together as a church family at the table of our Lord -[396.64 --> 399.92] And receive grace from Him there -[399.92 --> 404.54] We gather to worship our God because He calls us into His presence -[404.54 --> 407.04] And because He is here -[407.04 --> 409.62] Where two or three are gathered -[409.62 --> 412.40] I am there, says the Lord Jesus -[412.40 --> 415.64] And so we are ushered into His presence by His greeting -[415.64 --> 418.24] So I'm going to invite you as you're able to stand -[418.24 --> 423.30] And as you stand you can take a posture of receipt -[423.30 --> 428.92] And receive the greeting of our God as we come into His presence to worship Him -[428.92 --> 434.72] Grace, mercy, and peace to you -[434.72 --> 439.10] From God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ, Son and our Savior -[439.10 --> 442.30] Through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit -[442.30 --> 443.88] Amen -[443.88 --> 445.66] Let's worship God this morning -[445.66 --> 449.50] Good morning -[449.50 --> 452.68] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 73 -[452.68 --> 453.92] Where it says -[453.92 --> 456.14] Whom have I in heaven but you? -[457.10 --> 460.18] And earth has nothing I desire besides you -[460.18 --> 462.86] My flesh and my heart may fail -[462.86 --> 465.62] But God is the strength of my heart -[465.62 --> 467.32] And my portion forever -[467.32 --> 472.68] Let's join our voices in praise to the one who is our hope and portion forever -[472.68 --> 473.34] This morning -[473.34 --> 493.68] Jesus, hope of the nations -[493.68 --> 498.68] Jesus, comfort for all who mourn -[498.68 --> 505.22] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth -[505.22 --> 510.06] Jesus, light in the darkness -[510.06 --> 514.44] Jesus, truth in each circumstance -[514.44 --> 521.88] You are the source of heaven's light on earth -[521.88 --> 526.18] In history you lived and died -[526.18 --> 531.72] You broke the chains you rose to lie -[531.72 --> 535.72] You are the hope living in us -[535.72 --> 539.90] You are the rock in whom we trust -[539.90 --> 547.72] You are the light shining for all the world to see -[547.72 --> 551.94] You rose from the dead conquering fear -[551.94 --> 554.10] Our prince of peace -[554.10 --> 554.14] Our prince of peace -[554.14 --> 556.02] Drawing us near -[556.02 --> 558.06] Jesus, our hope -[558.06 --> 561.98] Living for all who will receive -[561.98 --> 566.48] Lord, we believe -[566.48 --> 573.48] Jesus, hope of the nations -[573.48 --> 579.32] Jesus, comfort for all who mourn -[579.32 --> 585.86] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth -[585.86 --> 589.86] Jesus, light in the darkness -[589.86 --> 594.86] Jesus, truth in each circumstance -[594.86 --> 601.86] You are the source of heaven's light on earth -[601.86 --> 603.40] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth -[603.40 --> 605.40] In history you lived and died -[605.40 --> 610.40] You broke the chains you rose to lie -[610.40 --> 615.40] You are the hope living in us -[615.40 --> 619.40] You are the rock in whom we trust -[619.40 --> 625.40] You are the light shining for all the world to see -[625.40 --> 631.94] You rose from the dead conquering fear -[631.94 --> 635.94] Our prince of peace drawing us near -[635.94 --> 641.94] Jesus, our hope living for all who will receive -[641.94 --> 646.48] Lord, we believe -[646.48 --> 650.48] Lord, we believe -[650.48 --> 651.48] Lord, we believe -[651.48 --> 655.48] Lord, we believe -[655.48 --> 671.02] And we will live in us -[671.02 --> 673.02] Lord, we believe in us -[673.02 --> 674.02] And we will live in us -[674.02 --> 675.02] In our hearts and hearts -[675.02 --> 675.96] We believe in us -[675.96 --> 680.02] We will live in us -[680.02 --> 682.02] We will live in us -[682.02 --> 701.76] Everyone needs compassion, a love that's never failing. -[701.76 --> 722.76] Let mercy fall on me, everyone needs forgiveness, kindness of the Savior, the hope of nations. -[722.76 --> 743.76] Savior, He can move the mountains, my God is mighty to save, He is mighty to save forever. -[743.76 --> 756.92] Author of salvation, He rose and conquered the grave, Jesus conquered the grave. -[756.92 --> 785.92] So take me as you find me, all my fears and failures, to fill my life again. -[785.92 --> 794.66] I give my life to follow, everything I believe in. -[795.22 --> 802.62] Now I surrender, I surrender. -[802.62 --> 821.62] Savior, He can move the mountains, my God is mighty to save, He is mighty to save forever. -[821.62 --> 833.62] Author of salvation, He rose and conquered the grave, Jesus conquered the grave. -[833.62 --> 838.62] Shine your light and let the whole world see. -[838.62 --> 845.62] We're singing for the glory of the risen King. -[845.62 --> 852.62] Jesus, shine your light and let the whole world see. -[852.62 --> 860.62] We're singing for the glory of the risen King. -[860.62 --> 877.62] Savior, He can move the mountains, my God is mighty to save, He is mighty to save forever. -[877.62 --> 886.62] Father of salvation, He rose and conquered the grave. -[886.62 --> 889.62] Jesus conquered the grave. -[889.62 --> 908.62] May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. -[908.62 --> 929.18] There's often a temptation for us to try to make ourselves look more acceptable or a little better or feel more acceptable than we really are. -[929.18 --> 940.18] To make ourselves look or feel worthy of Christ's love by what we do or what we do for a living or how we treat other people. -[940.18 --> 944.18] But Paul is saying there's nothing we can boast about that comes from ourselves. -[944.18 --> 950.18] That our only hope is in the powerful name of Jesus, His love and His sacrifice. -[950.18 --> 952.18] Please pray with me. -[952.18 --> 970.18] Father, will you bring to mind times when we didn't rest in the sacrifice of Jesus, when we valued our reputation in this world more than our relationship with you? -[970.18 --> 979.18] Forgive us our selfish ways and through your Holy Spirit renew our hearts and our minds to be holy and holy. -[979.18 --> 981.18] To be wholly devoted to you. -[981.18 --> 984.18] You are living hope. -[984.18 --> 986.18] Amen. -[986.18 --> 1008.18] How great the chasm that lay between us. -[1008.18 --> 1015.18] How high the mountain I could not climb. -[1015.18 --> 1031.18] In desperation I turned to heaven and spoke your name into the night. -[1031.18 --> 1032.18] tucking. -[1032.18 --> 1033.18] God. -[1033.18 --> 1034.18] functioning. -[1034.18 --> 1035.18] The mercil bipartis Bodhi, люд hastily away. -[1035.18 --> 1040.18] Remember, if we cared for others,切於 않isms yes, some日 is there. -[1040.18 --> 1041.18] For our American tavern is greatly honored and well. -[1041.18 --> 1042.18] har decaying is experienced and well. -[1042.18 --> 1044.18] For ourensory when we rap then was a miracle we thought about Isaac. -[1044.18 --> 1047.18] For ouradamenteum God was a miracle, but we pray for the hate. -[1047.18 --> 1048.18] With us for our recommendationels is our brother. -[1048.18 --> 1053.18] Our damned has the mission ofiskіть and amen, -[1053.18 --> 1058.18] And we pray for the time that we organs in the아서 significance. -[1058.18 --> 1059.18] We pray for our received and then fill this detour, -[1059.18 --> 1060.18] night por Dünaeus him for e Edison Our eternaldy book is treasured to you. -[1060.18 --> 1071.18] Who could imagine how great a mercy -[1071.18 --> 1079.32] What heart could fathom such boundless grace -[1079.32 --> 1086.14] The God of ages stepped down from glory -[1086.14 --> 1094.08] To wear my sin and bear my shame -[1094.08 --> 1100.54] The cross has spoken, I am forgiven -[1100.54 --> 1108.18] The King of kings calls me His own -[1108.18 --> 1114.98] Beautiful Savior, I'm Yours forever -[1114.98 --> 1122.92] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[1122.92 --> 1129.92] Hallelujah, praise the one who set me free -[1130.48 --> 1136.92] Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me -[1136.92 --> 1140.86] You have broken every chain -[1140.86 --> 1144.86] There's salvation in Your name -[1144.86 --> 1150.80] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[1150.80 --> 1158.90] Hallelujah, praise the one who set me free -[1158.90 --> 1165.80] Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me -[1165.80 --> 1169.74] You have broken every chain -[1169.74 --> 1172.74] There's salvation in Your name -[1172.74 --> 1179.74] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[1179.74 --> 1190.68] Then came the morning that sealed the promise -[1190.68 --> 1197.68] Your very body began to breathe -[1197.68 --> 1201.62] Out of the silence -[1201.62 --> 1203.62] Out of the silence -[1203.62 --> 1204.62] The roaring lion -[1204.62 --> 1207.62] Declared the grave -[1207.62 --> 1208.56] Declared the grave -[1208.56 --> 1209.56] Declared the grave -[1209.56 --> 1212.56] The grave has no claim on me -[1212.56 --> 1217.56] Then came the morning that sealed the promise -[1217.56 --> 1219.50] That sealed the promise -[1219.50 --> 1220.50] That sealed the promise -[1220.50 --> 1221.50] Your very body -[1221.50 --> 1222.50] That sealed the promise -[1222.50 --> 1223.50] Your very body -[1223.50 --> 1224.50] That sealed the promise -[1224.50 --> 1225.50] Your very body -[1225.50 --> 1227.50] Began to breathe -[1227.50 --> 1229.50] Out of the silence -[1229.50 --> 1230.50] Out of the silence -[1230.50 --> 1231.50] The roaring lion -[1231.50 --> 1232.50] Declared the grave -[1232.50 --> 1233.50] Declared the grave -[1233.50 --> 1234.50] The grave has no claim on me -[1234.50 --> 1247.44] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[1247.44 --> 1249.38] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[1249.38 --> 1254.44] Alleluia, praise the one who set me free -[1254.44 --> 1264.44] Alleluia, death has lost its grip on me -[1264.44 --> 1267.96] You have broken every chain -[1267.96 --> 1271.48] There's salvation in your name -[1271.48 --> 1278.42] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[1278.42 --> 1285.54] Hallelujah, praise the one who set me free -[1285.54 --> 1292.58] Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me -[1292.58 --> 1296.18] You have broken every chain -[1296.18 --> 1299.72] There's salvation in your name -[1299.72 --> 1305.64] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[1305.64 --> 1313.82] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[1313.82 --> 1320.68] Oh God, you are my living hope -[1322.58 --> 1329.64] Oh God, you are my living hope -[1329.64 --> 1334.18] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[1334.18 --> 1336.18] Oh God, you are my living hope -[1336.18 --> 1339.46] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[1339.46 --> 1365.16] We are a moment, you are forever. -[1365.16 --> 1372.54] Lord of the ages, God before time. -[1373.14 --> 1378.96] We are a moment, you are eternal. -[1379.96 --> 1386.06] Love everlasting, reigning on God. -[1388.06 --> 1394.38] Holy, holy, Lord God almighty. -[1395.16 --> 1401.84] Worthy is God that who was saved. -[1402.30 --> 1408.54] Highest praise and honor and glory. -[1408.54 --> 1414.90] Be unto your name. -[1415.72 --> 1421.72] Be unto your name. -[1421.72 --> 1428.72] We are the broken, you are the healer. -[1429.86 --> 1435.86] Jesus, Redeemer, mighty to save. -[1436.68 --> 1442.66] You are the love song, we'll sing forever. -[1442.66 --> 1450.66] I'll be before you, bless in your name. -[1450.66 --> 1457.66] Holy, holy, Lord God almighty. -[1457.66 --> 1464.66] Holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy. -[1464.66 --> 1494.66] -[1494.66 --> 1499.66] He is not man who was saved. -[1499.66 --> 1505.66] Highest praise and honor and glory. -[1505.66 --> 1511.66] Be unto your name. -[1511.66 --> 1518.66] Be unto your name. -[1518.66 --> 1525.00] I invite you to sing. -[1541.66 --> 1548.66] Good morning. -[1548.66 --> 1552.34] I am asked to introduce Jim Calamance. -[1552.34 --> 1556.84] I believe is from the food bank, Langley Food Bank. -[1556.84 --> 1558.34] He wants to speak. -[1558.34 --> 1570.10] Good morning. -[1570.10 --> 1570.16] Good morning. -[1572.30 --> 1573.86] My name is Jim Calamance. -[1573.96 --> 1575.18] I'm from the Langley Food Bank. -[1575.56 --> 1576.12] What an intro. -[1576.70 --> 1579.02] First, I want to say thank you for allowing me to come. -[1579.22 --> 1579.74] Thank you, Pastor. -[1579.74 --> 1582.20] Also, thanks to John Stewart. -[1582.40 --> 1585.04] John's in your group and he's one of our great volunteers. -[1585.30 --> 1586.80] So, praise God for him. -[1587.44 --> 1588.50] Praise the Lord for you guys. -[1588.66 --> 1590.32] I've been at the food bank for three years now. -[1590.70 --> 1592.62] I was a pastor for over 30 years. -[1593.12 --> 1596.26] And I thought, gee, how could God use me after I want to be a pastor? -[1596.80 --> 1599.56] And I found out the last three years is a great opportunity -[1599.56 --> 1603.84] because the Langley Food Bank and the Alder Grove Food Bank are faith-based. -[1604.58 --> 1608.08] We are one of the few that love Jesus. -[1608.08 --> 1610.62] As a matter of fact, we're crazy about Jesus. -[1611.48 --> 1616.48] And we want the people to know that they can also have Jesus as their Lord and Savior too. -[1616.96 --> 1620.48] So, not only do we hand out food, that's kind of our opportunity to get into their lives. -[1621.00 --> 1624.88] But really, the end all is for us to be able to share Christ. -[1625.62 --> 1628.20] And so, there are two things I want to do today, just briefly. -[1628.78 --> 1632.16] Number one, thank you so much for your latest contribution. -[1632.70 --> 1633.82] I believe it was a couple weeks ago. -[1633.88 --> 1635.02] I think we have a couple slides. -[1635.86 --> 1637.64] And that's the Langley Food Bank. -[1638.08 --> 1641.66] And then we have two slides of all the stuff you guys gave. -[1641.70 --> 1644.54] You gave us four carts full and two bins. -[1644.68 --> 1646.98] The next one is two bins full of food. -[1647.04 --> 1648.20] And look how high it's stacked. -[1648.74 --> 1652.08] And during the summer months, these are the times we need the food the most. -[1652.74 --> 1654.88] And our number one item is pasta. -[1655.56 --> 1657.42] And KD, that's number two. -[1657.42 --> 1661.22] And so, for some reason, we're really short in those areas. -[1661.22 --> 1665.64] So, as we go to the next one, I want to share how God has provided for us. -[1665.74 --> 1668.02] This is Ben from Fresh Goal and Alder Grove. -[1668.66 --> 1670.14] And he has a love for the community. -[1670.64 --> 1675.06] So, when I got here three years ago, we have a lot of Muslim families that are coming now. -[1675.14 --> 1676.98] And we were giving them ham. -[1676.98 --> 1680.16] That's not a good thing to do with Muslims. -[1680.74 --> 1681.88] They did not take the ham. -[1681.94 --> 1683.04] We couldn't understand why. -[1683.28 --> 1685.10] Well, because, of course, they don't eat ham. -[1685.56 --> 1686.08] They eat halal. -[1686.50 --> 1688.90] So, for the last three years, I've been getting halal chickens in. -[1689.44 --> 1691.10] So, I always go through Ben. -[1691.18 --> 1692.12] He gives us great deals. -[1692.64 --> 1695.62] And so, I said, Ben, I need 65 halal chickens. -[1696.52 --> 1699.06] Well, up the line somehow, it got changed. -[1699.24 --> 1702.40] And I get 65 cartons of halal chickens. -[1702.58 --> 1704.94] And each carton gets four to six chickens in each carton. -[1705.38 --> 1707.72] So, Ben says, Jim, they made a mistake. -[1708.80 --> 1714.28] You can pay for the 65, but they're not charging me for the other 147 halal chickens they sent you. -[1714.62 --> 1716.26] And so, you can have them free. -[1717.46 --> 1720.02] And I don't know if you ever bought a halal chicken, but they're expensive. -[1720.02 --> 1725.66] So, not only did we get 500 hams or 450 hams, but we also got that. -[1725.74 --> 1727.78] So, then Ben said, and God provided again. -[1728.10 --> 1733.38] Ben says, I went up the line to Freshco, and I got you $6,500 worth of cards. -[1734.02 --> 1736.22] So, it paid for the whole order for Easter. -[1736.76 --> 1737.64] So, God is amazing. -[1738.14 --> 1743.40] Next thing we see here is our annual pilgrimage to Toys R Us. -[1744.16 --> 1747.60] And what we try to do is we have a toy closet at the Langley Food Bank. -[1747.60 --> 1755.24] And when a client's child under 12 has a birthday, we actually have them, we used to have them go in and pick out a present for their child. -[1755.60 --> 1758.68] Now, we go in and pick out two and bring out two because of COVID. -[1759.22 --> 1765.34] And so, every year we go and we actually give them a Christmas present to each of our client's kids under 12. -[1765.34 --> 1774.18] And so, this last year, I had two companies fighting to buy the presents for the kids. -[1774.72 --> 1782.24] And every other year before, I always had one company step and say, you know, we're using this, we can't use it for COVID, so can we give you this $5,000? -[1782.88 --> 1784.28] And so, we've always gone shopping. -[1784.28 --> 1789.40] So, we go on a Sunday night, about two Sundays before Christmas, and we had about 27 volunteers there. -[1789.82 --> 1793.84] And we got 267 presents in 65 minutes. -[1794.34 --> 1796.02] So, that was really a great shopping spree. -[1796.12 --> 1796.82] Everybody had fun. -[1797.20 --> 1799.60] I heard people saying, hey, we should really get this for our grandkids. -[1800.10 --> 1803.56] And so, it was kind of a pre-excursion into buying those presents. -[1803.72 --> 1804.16] The next one. -[1804.16 --> 1806.34] This is the way it is now. -[1806.42 --> 1807.24] It's the Langley Food Bank. -[1808.26 --> 1809.66] 5768 203 Street. -[1809.80 --> 1811.08] We're right across from the fire station. -[1811.60 --> 1815.88] We have the Langley Hospital, Animal Hospital on one side and the cabinet place on the other. -[1816.28 --> 1817.38] We only have 10 stalls. -[1817.56 --> 1819.82] It's amazing we get that many cars in there at one time. -[1820.10 --> 1821.24] But we had to bring it outside. -[1821.46 --> 1822.18] So, we have tents. -[1822.28 --> 1822.90] We have tables. -[1823.52 --> 1828.08] And before, it took you 25 to 30 minutes to go through the process of getting your food. -[1828.44 --> 1830.64] Now, it's five to seven minutes. -[1831.02 --> 1832.74] So, we've lost the personal touch. -[1832.74 --> 1836.08] So, now we have a church that comes in the first week of the month. -[1836.18 --> 1837.92] They have coffee and conversation. -[1838.64 --> 1841.96] And then on Wednesdays, we have a volunteer, an ex-pastor, who comes in. -[1842.02 --> 1846.40] And he just kind of works the crowd and talks to people and says, hey, anything you want to pray about? -[1846.56 --> 1847.54] Have you ever heard about Jesus? -[1848.28 --> 1850.42] And so, that's how we've kind of adapted to that. -[1850.56 --> 1851.04] So, next one. -[1852.02 --> 1856.92] This is our first ever Christmas Eve service in the parking lot. -[1857.40 --> 1861.44] So, the church that comes in for coffee and conversation, they actually helped us. -[1861.44 --> 1865.28] We split the bill and we set up gigantic tents across our parking lot. -[1865.72 --> 1867.16] And so, we had a service there. -[1867.22 --> 1868.28] We had actually two services. -[1868.88 --> 1870.60] And the gospel was presented there. -[1871.94 --> 1872.62] Next one. -[1873.70 --> 1876.06] That's how we want our clients to end up. -[1876.50 --> 1877.56] In the arms of Jesus. -[1878.26 --> 1879.92] Let me tell you this last story and then I'll go. -[1879.92 --> 1886.64] So, and that is about a year ago, a year and a half, I had an Indo-Canadian family come in. -[1887.02 --> 1889.12] And they had been forced out of their home. -[1890.18 --> 1893.58] So, as I was standing there, I said to him, because I know a little bit of the culture, -[1894.36 --> 1896.00] are the temples not helping you? -[1896.04 --> 1897.46] He says, no, none of the temples will help me. -[1897.96 --> 1900.18] I said, well, I know somebody who will help you. -[1900.38 --> 1901.18] Come into my office. -[1901.78 --> 1904.58] So, he sat down and I said, there's this person, his name is Jesus. -[1905.54 --> 1906.34] He can help you. -[1906.96 --> 1908.14] And he says, well, tell me more. -[1908.64 --> 1911.80] And I just really starved for spiritual conversation. -[1911.94 --> 1913.10] So, I shared the gospel with him. -[1913.50 --> 1916.84] I said, you know, hey, you can make him your friend right now. -[1917.24 --> 1918.26] He said, well, let me think about it. -[1918.64 --> 1920.06] So, that night, it was a Friday. -[1920.18 --> 1921.68] He went to a BC Lions game. -[1922.48 --> 1925.52] And outside BC Lions place was a guy with a placard that says, -[1925.52 --> 1927.64] if you want to know about Jesus, ask me. -[1928.66 --> 1932.58] So, he went up to the guy and the guy led him to Jesus. -[1932.58 --> 1936.86] So, they came back and I saw him a week later and he said, -[1936.94 --> 1937.72] Jim, I have Jesus. -[1938.60 --> 1940.22] I said, you need to come to my office. -[1940.98 --> 1944.22] So, he came back in the office and he said, yeah, I prayed and asked Jesus in my heart. -[1944.80 --> 1945.88] And I said, how about your wife? -[1946.42 --> 1946.64] Nope. -[1947.02 --> 1947.78] I said, bring her in. -[1948.30 --> 1952.14] So, we brought her in and she asked Jesus in her heart as well that day. -[1953.04 --> 1956.72] So, we are much more than food at the Langley and Aldergo Foodbanks. -[1957.36 --> 1958.64] But we can't do it without you. -[1958.64 --> 1962.08] So, thank you so much, church, for supporting us. -[1962.58 --> 1963.04] God bless you. -[1973.92 --> 1980.22] Today's offerings are for a manual budget for all our programs and day-to-day expenses. -[1980.22 --> 1988.76] The second offering is for the University Campus Ministries at the University of BC in Kelowna. -[1989.60 --> 1999.20] Christian Reformed Campus Ministries Okanagan is present at UBCO as Campus Reformed Okanagan, -[1999.92 --> 2002.44] a ministry of the Christian Reformed Church, -[2002.44 --> 2010.02] which seeks to be the catalyst for thoughtful Christian engagement with university culture -[2010.02 --> 2015.60] and a platform for fostering Christian community and discipleship. -[2016.16 --> 2026.44] It is guided by the conviction that Jesus Christ is present at UBCO to renew and reform a broken world. -[2026.44 --> 2036.92] Please support the work of campus pastor, Reverend Dr. Todd Statham, -[2037.46 --> 2042.82] along the students, staff, and faculty at UBCO. -[2043.34 --> 2045.42] Give as the Lord has blessed you. -[2045.42 --> 2047.42] Thank you. -[2047.42 --> 2049.26] Thank you. -[2049.26 --> 2079.24] Thank you. -[2079.26 --> 2089.44] Faithless one, you're my rock of peace. -[2090.10 --> 2097.50] Lord of all, I depend on you. -[2097.50 --> 2109.50] I call out to you again and again. -[2109.50 --> 2118.50] I call out to you again and again. -[2120.18 --> 2127.80] You are my rock in times of trouble. -[2127.80 --> 2137.80] You lift me up when I fall down. -[2138.80 --> 2150.80] All through the shore, your love is the anchor. -[2150.80 --> 2159.80] My hope is in you alone. -[2162.80 --> 2169.80] Faithful one, so I'm changing. -[2169.80 --> 2181.80] Faithful one, you're my rock of peace. -[2181.80 --> 2190.80] Lord of all, I depend on you. -[2190.80 --> 2201.80] I call out to you again and again. -[2201.80 --> 2210.80] I call out to you again and again. -[2210.80 --> 2220.80] You are my rock in times of trouble. -[2220.80 --> 2231.80] You lift me up when I fall down. -[2231.80 --> 2244.80] All through the storm, your love is the anchor. -[2244.80 --> 2252.80] My hope is in you alone. -[2252.80 --> 2264.80] I call out to you again and again. -[2264.80 --> 2269.62] I'm going to invite all the kids up to the front. -[2269.80 --> 2279.46] In particular, if you're preschool age, so it's at three to five, you can come up to the front and then you will head out for children's worship time. -[2279.46 --> 2286.46] If you are an older kid, you can also just come up to the front and we can bless you for our worship here. -[2286.46 --> 2287.46] Excellent. -[2287.46 --> 2288.46] Good job. -[2288.46 --> 2292.46] Haley, you're always so bright eye and bushy tail right up to the front. -[2293.46 --> 2294.46] Very good. -[2295.46 --> 2302.46] If you haven't yet, for kids who are staying here, there are clipboards at the back with some activities and coloring pages and the like. -[2302.46 --> 2306.46] You're welcome to grab one of those before we get into the message together. -[2309.46 --> 2312.46] Client Galtanks, look at you guys. -[2312.46 --> 2316.46] All right. -[2316.46 --> 2325.46] So, today you guys are going to go off to children's worship time and then the rest of us are going to stay here and continue reading some parables from Jesus. -[2325.46 --> 2329.46] But before you go, we want to pray for you and then we want to bless you. -[2329.46 --> 2331.46] So, can we pray together? -[2331.46 --> 2332.46] Let's pray. -[2332.46 --> 2333.46] Let's pray. -[2333.46 --> 2341.46] Lord Jesus, we pray now that you would speak to these young hearts and minds. -[2341.46 --> 2346.46] Show them your love and may they love you in return. -[2346.46 --> 2348.46] Be with their teachers and helpers. -[2348.46 --> 2352.46] May they have a good time in worship together learning about you. -[2352.46 --> 2354.46] In Jesus name we pray. -[2354.46 --> 2355.46] Amen. -[2355.46 --> 2357.46] All right, everyone. -[2357.46 --> 2362.46] Let's stand up and then we'll turn around and face the rest of the church. -[2362.46 --> 2367.46] And then rest of the church, we're going to say the Lord be with you and as kids. -[2367.46 --> 2370.46] And then you will respond and say and also with you. -[2370.46 --> 2371.46] So, ready guys? -[2371.46 --> 2372.46] Ready? -[2372.46 --> 2374.46] The Lord be with you. -[2374.46 --> 2377.46] Amen. -[2377.46 --> 2378.46] Amen. -[2382.46 --> 2399.46] I knew Lena was short but I didn't think you were that short. -[2399.46 --> 2405.46] They call me short too in my family so I know how you feel. -[2405.46 --> 2406.46] Good morning everyone. -[2406.46 --> 2407.46] Time for some family prayer. -[2407.46 --> 2410.46] I had some time this morning being in the nursery business. -[2410.46 --> 2414.46] You have to get up in the mornings early and do some watering and stuff. -[2414.46 --> 2418.46] So, when the heat's like this as it is these days, the mornings are kind of precious. -[2418.46 --> 2423.46] So, I don't know if anyone's had a chance to get up early in the morning and feel the morning air. -[2423.46 --> 2424.46] It's definitely refreshing. -[2424.46 --> 2427.46] So, that was my morning or my mornings. -[2427.46 --> 2433.46] So, for the prayer today, a couple of things I just wanted to highlight. -[2433.46 --> 2435.46] I had a chance to talk to Harry Bauman this morning. -[2435.46 --> 2439.46] I know many of you realize that he had quite the accident about a month ago or six weeks ago. -[2439.46 --> 2440.46] So, I chatted with him. -[2440.46 --> 2441.46] That was kind of a... -[2441.46 --> 2444.46] Harry's always kind of an interesting guy to talk to. -[2444.46 --> 2446.46] It's always a blessing to talk to him. -[2446.46 --> 2447.46] He's always pretty positive. -[2447.46 --> 2448.46] And this morning he was too. -[2448.46 --> 2452.46] He's just taking it day by day. -[2452.46 --> 2455.46] And he has a doctor's appointment this week. -[2455.46 --> 2458.46] On Tuesday, he's getting his casts off, he said. -[2458.46 --> 2460.46] So, they're going to check to see how the healing is going. -[2460.46 --> 2462.46] And hopefully everything is going well. -[2462.46 --> 2464.46] And then at that point, some more... -[2464.46 --> 2466.46] A long road of physiotherapy. -[2466.46 --> 2469.46] So, if you ever get a chance to talk to him, it's kind of when you like... -[2469.46 --> 2472.46] I kind of tweaked my knee this week. -[2472.46 --> 2473.46] And then I was feeling kind of bummed about it. -[2473.46 --> 2475.46] And then I went and talked to Harry this morning. -[2475.46 --> 2478.46] I realized that my life is not so bad compared to what he's going through. -[2478.46 --> 2481.46] So, Harry's a great guy to talk to. -[2481.46 --> 2482.46] And I was like to... -[2482.46 --> 2484.46] Klein Gelting sitting in the back here by me. -[2484.46 --> 2487.46] They just had a baby this week. -[2487.46 --> 2489.46] Was it this week or last week? -[2489.46 --> 2491.46] So, I want to congratulate them on that. -[2491.46 --> 2494.46] So, that was a real blessing as well. -[2494.46 --> 2499.46] The staff wanted me to let you know that if you're hot at home and you need a place to cool off, -[2499.46 --> 2500.46] there's air conditioning in the building. -[2500.46 --> 2503.46] Maybe not in the sanctuary as you all can tell right now. -[2503.46 --> 2505.46] But in the rest of the building it is. -[2505.46 --> 2509.46] But Chris does have a list, a to-do list around the building. -[2509.46 --> 2514.46] So, if you do come here and hang it out, he's probably going to put you to work. -[2514.46 --> 2520.46] Alright, with that we'll just begin with the family prayer. -[2520.46 --> 2524.46] Our Father in Heaven, hallowed be your name. -[2524.46 --> 2529.46] We thank you for this wonderful part of the world, this beautiful morning here in BC, -[2529.46 --> 2534.46] with its beautiful landscapes of oceans, mountains and land that was created by you. -[2534.46 --> 2541.46] Your handiwork is evident all around us, from the bees to the hummingbirds to the laughter of children. -[2541.46 --> 2547.46] We ask, Lord, that your kingdom come and your will be done on this earth as it is in heaven. -[2547.46 --> 2553.46] As we live our lives here on earth, Lord, we yearn for your influence to continue to spread around this world. -[2553.46 --> 2556.46] We long for suffering and pain to be over. -[2556.46 --> 2562.46] We long for injuries and mental health and other physical challenges to be over. -[2562.46 --> 2568.46] We long for strained relationships and community disasters to be no more. -[2568.46 --> 2576.46] We all have struggles in our lives that we deal with each day and every day that we long to be released from. -[2576.46 --> 2579.46] Lord, may your kingdom come. -[2579.46 --> 2585.46] Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our sins as we forgive those who have sinned against us. -[2585.46 --> 2589.46] We thank you, Lord, for continuing to provide for us. -[2589.46 --> 2592.46] We have a blessed community here at Emmanuel. -[2592.46 --> 2597.46] We live in a great city, beautiful province and an amazing country. -[2597.46 --> 2605.46] When we look around the world and see the atrocities that are happening, the hunger, the human rights atrocities, war, -[2605.46 --> 2609.46] we can only be thankful for the place we are today. -[2609.46 --> 2614.46] May your spirit work in the leaders all over the world to make peace more common, -[2614.46 --> 2619.46] to make human rights a priority and to make hunger a thing of the past. -[2619.46 --> 2625.46] Lord, you have blessed Langley Emmanuel with another baby born to Nathan and Maria Klein-Geltink. -[2625.46 --> 2630.46] We look forward to seeing little Theo running around this church in a couple of years. -[2630.46 --> 2638.46] We thank you, Lord, that many of us can take time this summer for some family time and some relaxation time while on vacation. -[2638.46 --> 2645.46] The break from work and regular grind of life is healthy and good and we are grateful for these opportunities. -[2645.46 --> 2652.46] Please keep those of us who are away safe on their vacation and also in their travels. -[2652.46 --> 2657.46] Summer too, Lord, can be a reminder of lost loved ones as well. -[2657.46 --> 2662.46] Missing loved ones from the family's summer traditions and experiences can be difficult, -[2662.46 --> 2667.46] either due to death or those that just can't make it out for family time. -[2667.46 --> 2674.46] So we ask, Lord, that you give peace and comfort for those who are missing loved ones at this time of the year. -[2674.46 --> 2680.46] Lord, as we go from here today, may we be a light for you to those around us. -[2680.46 --> 2685.46] May we share a smile or a hello to those you pass on the street. -[2685.46 --> 2690.46] May we honour and glorify you in all we do, whether at our work or play this week. -[2690.46 --> 2691.46] May we for our efforts to please pray to you. -[2691.46 --> 2692.46] May we bless you, Lord. -[2692.46 --> 2693.46] May we bless you. -[2693.46 --> 2694.46] May we bless you, Lord. -[2694.46 --> 2695.46] May we bless you, Lord. -[2695.46 --> 2696.46] May we bless you, Lord. -[2696.46 --> 2697.46] Come to us and bless you, Lord. -[2697.46 --> 2699.46] And Lord, please help us not to be led into temptation but deliver us from the evil one. -[2699.46 --> 2700.46] For yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever and ever. -[2700.46 --> 2701.46] Amen. -[2701.46 --> 2701.56] Amen. -[2701.56 --> 2702.56] Amen. -[2702.56 --> 2704.56] Amen. -[2723.28 --> 2731.84] With the time that remains to us this morning, we're going to spend some time in God's Word -[2731.84 --> 2732.32] together. -[2733.32 --> 2738.52] So if you brought a Bible with, I of course encourage you to open that up and have that -[2738.52 --> 2738.84] with you. -[2738.92 --> 2747.82] We're going to read in our series on parables from Matthew 25, verse 14 to the end. -[2748.68 --> 2753.26] But in our reflections together, we'll look at some stuff from chapter 24. -[2753.26 --> 2758.08] So I encourage you to have that with you and ready. -[2758.08 --> 2767.56] Before I jump into the text, a little bit of a story. -[2767.70 --> 2772.82] When I was a kid, my dad worked a lot. -[2773.74 --> 2781.98] He was an electrician by trade, did primarily residential work, although he did work for -[2781.98 --> 2786.98] a time with a thermodynamics company building generators and so on, or wiring them. -[2788.16 --> 2789.38] Anyway, so let me be really clear. -[2789.44 --> 2793.92] My dad is here this morning, so he can fact check me later if you have questions. -[2794.14 --> 2801.18] But because my dad worked so much, we didn't, as kids, often have a lot of time hanging out -[2801.18 --> 2807.92] or doing recreational things, except when we were building model airplanes. -[2809.32 --> 2814.86] And as a kid, I loved building model airplanes with my dad. -[2815.64 --> 2819.38] I remember, I think it was a, Dad, you can correct me about this one. -[2819.42 --> 2821.62] Is it a B-17 stealth fighter? -[2822.96 --> 2824.76] I had a, no, not a B-17. -[2824.76 --> 2827.10] Okay, some other stealth fighter. -[2827.20 --> 2831.64] Anyway, I had a stealth fighter that we built and we would hang from the wall or hang from -[2831.64 --> 2832.70] the roof in my room. -[2832.84 --> 2837.58] I remember building other fighter jets. -[2837.72 --> 2844.86] But the one that stands out to me most clearly, and I had to look it up because all I remember -[2844.86 --> 2847.44] that it was bright yellow and it was called the Beaver. -[2848.24 --> 2852.00] But it's the de Havilland DH-2 yellow beaver. -[2852.00 --> 2856.24] It was a float plane that I got to build and paint yellow. -[2856.52 --> 2858.58] And why do I tell you this? -[2859.96 --> 2866.46] I loved building model airplanes with my dad because we would complete the plane and I would -[2866.46 --> 2867.66] hold it out to him. -[2867.72 --> 2871.84] I would show it to him and he would say, good job. -[2873.42 --> 2876.06] And I loved that. -[2876.06 --> 2892.06] Hold that image in your mind as we read this parable, the bags of gold, from Matthew 25. -[2892.06 --> 2901.46] Again, it will be like a man going on a journey who called his servants and entrusted his wealth -[2901.46 --> 2901.92] to them. -[2902.92 --> 2910.40] To one he gave five bags of gold, to another two bags, and to another one bag, each according -[2910.40 --> 2911.16] to his ability. -[2911.68 --> 2912.94] Then he went on a journey. -[2912.94 --> 2919.68] The man who had received five bags of gold went at once and put his money to work and -[2919.68 --> 2921.62] gained five bags more. -[2922.42 --> 2926.74] So also the one with two bags of gold gained two more. -[2927.60 --> 2932.76] But the one who had received one bag went off, dug a hole in the ground, and hid his master's -[2932.76 --> 2933.00] money. -[2934.58 --> 2939.36] Now after a long time, the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them. -[2939.36 --> 2944.64] The man who had received five bags of gold brought to the other five. -[2945.52 --> 2949.56] Master, he said, you entrusted me with five bags of gold. -[2949.80 --> 2952.08] See, I have gained five more. -[2953.16 --> 2959.68] His master replied, well done, good and faithful servant. -[2960.54 --> 2964.30] You have been faithful with a few things and I will put you in charge of many things. -[2964.70 --> 2967.54] Come and share your master's happiness. -[2967.54 --> 2996.62] Then the man who had received one bag of gold came. -[2997.62 --> 3002.82] Master, he said, I knew that you are a hard man, harvesting where you have not sown and -[3002.82 --> 3004.46] gathering where you have not scattered seed. -[3004.66 --> 3005.72] So I was afraid. -[3005.86 --> 3008.02] I went out and hid your gold in the ground. -[3008.56 --> 3010.84] See, here is what belongs to you. -[3012.10 --> 3015.92] His master replied, you wicked and lazy servant. -[3016.52 --> 3020.74] So you knew that I harvest where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed. -[3020.74 --> 3027.82] Well then, you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers so that when I returned, I would have it back with interest. -[3028.82 --> 3032.56] So take the bag of gold from him and give it to the one who has ten bags. -[3032.74 --> 3036.12] For whoever has will be given more and they will have abundance. -[3036.46 --> 3041.46] Whoever does not have when they have, even what they have will be taken from them. -[3041.46 --> 3049.80] And throw that worthless servant outside into the darkness where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. -[3049.80 --> 3052.72] This is the word of the Lord. -[3052.72 --> 3077.32] As we continue in our series this summer on parables, just a quick reminder that Jesus tells us that he uses parables to teach and for instruction for two sort of main reasons. -[3077.32 --> 3083.40] One, he's trying to make a theological point out of sort of the ordinary circumstances of life around him. -[3083.98 --> 3099.30] But two, he talks in these ways so as to reveal to those people who know what they need to know and to confuse those people who don't know and who can't know. -[3099.30 --> 3108.40] And so, when we dig into these parables, we've been doing the hard work of trying not to oversimplify them. -[3108.72 --> 3112.52] Trying not to do too much of a children's Bible version. -[3113.46 --> 3117.26] And so we're going to continue with that task today. -[3118.34 --> 3126.82] Now the sort of theme that I want to reflect on with you this morning out of this parable is this here. -[3126.82 --> 3139.44] When you live ready for the end, that is when your heart and your eyes and your life is fixed on the kingdom of heaven to come, -[3139.98 --> 3144.18] far from making you aloof or distant in the world around you, -[3144.18 --> 3150.98] you are actually made more able, more ready to live rightly now. -[3150.98 --> 3159.24] Now the reason why I want to spend some time here, there used to be a saying that, I'm not sure if you're familiar with it, -[3159.76 --> 3169.04] but sort of evangelical Christians used to be criticized, maybe they still are, with this phrase that says that they're too heavenly minded to be of any earthly good. -[3170.56 --> 3170.74] Right? -[3170.76 --> 3175.44] And so the presumption there is all they think about is heaven, so then they don't worry about what's going on around here. -[3175.44 --> 3177.20] I want to challenge that assumption. -[3178.68 --> 3186.38] That it's in fact by being heavenly minded, you are able to be the most good, the best good for the world around us. -[3186.64 --> 3187.40] I'll put it this way. -[3188.82 --> 3198.60] When this, right, all around you is all there is, you end up needing this to be everything. -[3198.60 --> 3201.10] But it can't be. -[3201.90 --> 3202.96] And it won't be. -[3204.50 --> 3209.46] So here's how I see that in Matthew 25, in the parable of the bags of gold. -[3209.54 --> 3214.38] And to get there, like I said, we need to actually go back a little bit in this text and chapter -[3214.38 --> 3218.18] and see what's going on in the context that this parable is given. -[3219.00 --> 3222.62] And so we're going to look at chapters 24 and 25 a little bit together. -[3222.62 --> 3228.98] Chapters 24 and 25 are part of one long discussion about the kingdom of heaven. -[3229.32 --> 3229.42] Right? -[3229.46 --> 3230.46] The end of the world. -[3230.56 --> 3234.68] About judgment, renewal, and reward, punishment. -[3235.72 --> 3241.94] About how the truth of the kingdom of heaven and the end of the world, working backwards, -[3242.34 --> 3246.82] impacts the priorities of your life lived right now. -[3247.66 --> 3249.52] And so let's track that together. -[3249.52 --> 3253.48] If you have your Bibles open, and I think this one will be on the screen, look chapter -[3253.48 --> 3256.42] 24 in verse 1. -[3257.06 --> 3263.56] Jesus left the temple and was walking away when his disciples came up to him to call his attention -[3263.56 --> 3264.40] to its buildings. -[3265.54 --> 3266.76] Do you see these things? -[3266.84 --> 3267.34] He asked. -[3268.12 --> 3271.88] Truly I tell you, not one stone here will be left on another. -[3272.18 --> 3274.60] Every one will be thrown down. -[3274.60 --> 3283.92] Jesus and the disciples are walking around the temple and Jesus says to them, -[3284.56 --> 3288.90] here's how you know that it is the beginning of the end. -[3289.62 --> 3296.36] This temple, this massive edifice and structure will be utterly destroyed. -[3296.36 --> 3304.08] And then if you scan variously through the rest of the chapter, you will see, you know, in -[3304.08 --> 3308.42] verse 5, many will come claiming to be the Messiah after me. -[3308.48 --> 3311.58] And there'll be wars and rumors of wars and famines. -[3312.44 --> 3313.38] There'll be earthquakes. -[3313.90 --> 3322.12] In verse 15 of 24, Jesus says, you will see it standing in the holy place, the abomination -[3322.12 --> 3323.94] that causes desolation. -[3325.28 --> 3329.04] Now that's a particular phrase, the abomination that causes desolation. -[3329.12 --> 3336.34] And it's actually a quote from Daniel 9, verse 27, which is an Old Testament prophet. -[3336.34 --> 3344.20] And the chapter 9 in Daniel is one of those future prophecies about the destruction and -[3344.20 --> 3345.06] judgment to come. -[3345.06 --> 3353.06] But we also know that from the perspective of Daniel, right, the abomination of desolation -[3353.06 --> 3355.48] has a fulfillment, right? -[3355.48 --> 3357.04] You can actually map this out. -[3357.10 --> 3361.84] And Daniel in his prophecy gives some pretty particular numbers that go along and timelines. -[3361.84 --> 3366.36] And you can calculate it out and it actually matches with history as we know it. -[3366.36 --> 3371.60] Because there's at least one level in which this prophecy, this abomination of desolation -[3371.60 --> 3375.22] is fulfilled in 167 BC. -[3376.66 --> 3378.26] It's a little bit of history for you. -[3378.34 --> 3379.50] You guys know that I love that. -[3380.28 --> 3387.38] In 167 BC, what was the empire, the Greek empire of Alexander the Great had been divided -[3387.38 --> 3389.32] up among his generals and his people. -[3389.32 --> 3396.76] And the region of Judea is called the Seleucid Empire at that point, is given and is being -[3396.76 --> 3400.36] ruled by one Antiochus IV Epiphanes. -[3401.00 --> 3404.12] He's king of Syria and the Seleucid division of the empire. -[3404.40 --> 3408.20] And he captures Jerusalem and he plunders the temple. -[3409.36 --> 3414.52] And Josephus, who's a Jewish historian from the first century, in writing out the Jewish -[3414.52 --> 3421.86] history for his Roman patron, actually, Josephus says that Antiochus took everything from the -[3421.86 --> 3423.08] temple, even the curtains. -[3424.22 --> 3426.80] So we might say he took everything, including the kitchen sink. -[3428.02 --> 3431.88] And then what Antiochus did is he sacrificed a pig. -[3433.76 --> 3439.12] Now, like we heard for the Muslims, pigs are unclean animals for the Jews. -[3439.12 --> 3446.00] And Antiochus sacrificed a pig on the altar in the temple and he sacrificed it to Zeus. -[3447.62 --> 3453.42] So you can easily imagine how that would be an abomination that causes desolation for the -[3453.42 --> 3455.32] purity of the altar. -[3456.20 --> 3463.74] But Jesus, now jumping back to Matthew 24, Jesus, saying that they will see the abomination -[3463.74 --> 3470.64] that causes desolation, says that there will be another, right, as yet future, from Jesus' -[3470.84 --> 3473.78] perspective, fulfillment of Daniel 9, 27. -[3474.96 --> 3482.42] And in fact, if we did a class on Hebrew prophecy, you would know that Hebrew prophecy can work like -[3482.42 --> 3483.12] this, right? -[3483.16 --> 3490.24] Here we talk about sort of horizons of fulfillment, of patterns and types as God moves history -[3490.24 --> 3491.04] forward. -[3491.52 --> 3493.76] What we're seeing here is an example of that. -[3494.46 --> 3496.08] As a case in point to that, right? -[3496.42 --> 3501.34] In verse 34, again from chapter 24, Jesus says, -[3501.34 --> 3508.44] Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. -[3509.16 --> 3513.06] So Jesus is putting a pretty precise time frame on what he's talking about here. -[3513.78 --> 3519.84] And so given that time frame, given the reference to Daniel 9, the abomination that causes -[3519.84 --> 3526.40] desolation and Jesus saying that the temple will be utterly destroyed, it seems clear that -[3526.40 --> 3532.90] the fulfillment that Jesus is talking about, that he has in mind, is the destruction of -[3532.90 --> 3538.36] Jerusalem, in particular the destruction of the temple that would take place in A.D. 70. -[3539.80 --> 3547.50] Now in A.D. 70, the temple and much of Jerusalem, the city, is raised to the ground by Tacitus, -[3547.50 --> 3554.48] whose son of Emperor Vespasian, Tacitus would become emperor after him. -[3555.24 --> 3561.98] And again, Josephus, in recording this, Josephus was tasked by Tacitus and Vespasian to write -[3561.98 --> 3562.70] these things down. -[3563.14 --> 3568.78] Josephus' account of this, of the fires in the temple and in the city and of the dying screams -[3568.78 --> 3571.90] of hundreds of thousands of Jews is truly heartbreaking. -[3571.90 --> 3576.22] And it's truly a desolation indeed. -[3577.82 --> 3579.24] And so why do we make this point? -[3579.32 --> 3580.80] Why does this history matter? -[3580.88 --> 3582.82] And I want to be really clear here. -[3583.78 --> 3593.06] There is a sense in which the end times that Jesus is talking about in 24 and 25, there is -[3593.06 --> 3600.48] a sense in which the end times in which Jesus is talking about, well, future to him are past -[3600.48 --> 3601.90] to us. -[3604.04 --> 3604.56] Right? -[3604.62 --> 3607.46] There have been people claiming to be the Messiah. -[3607.66 --> 3614.44] The temple at Jerusalem was utterly destroyed by Tacitus and his armies in A.D. 70, and that -[3614.44 --> 3619.52] the generation of Jesus' audience would have been alive to witness that. -[3621.10 --> 3628.00] And, and that's a really big and, okay, so don't miss it, and there's also a sense in -[3628.00 --> 3634.26] which the kingdom of heaven and the end times remain future to us. -[3634.26 --> 3642.84] Jesus says in Matthew 24, 30, then will appear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven, and then -[3642.84 --> 3647.36] all peoples on earth will mourn when they see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven -[3647.36 --> 3649.08] with power and great glory. -[3649.46 --> 3653.84] And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather the elect from the -[3653.84 --> 3656.80] four winds from one end of the heavens to the other. -[3657.48 --> 3659.78] Now that obviously hasn't happened yet. -[3659.78 --> 3660.22] Right? -[3661.22 --> 3667.94] In verse 36, he goes on and says, but about that day or hour, no one knows, not even the -[3667.94 --> 3670.72] angels in heaven nor the Son, but only the Father. -[3671.80 --> 3677.94] And again, in 42, therefore, keep watch because you do not know on what day your Lord will -[3677.94 --> 3678.26] come. -[3679.12 --> 3684.96] And then verse 44, so you must be ready because the Son of Man will come at an hour you do -[3684.96 --> 3686.44] not expect him. -[3686.44 --> 3692.68] And so on the one hand, the truth of the Bible is that the kingdom of heaven is already present. -[3694.68 --> 3695.16] Right? -[3695.22 --> 3699.96] In some way, this now already is the end. -[3701.10 --> 3708.22] And, there's that big and again, and the kingdom of heaven is future, not yet to come. -[3708.22 --> 3715.24] And so when we read parables like ours today about the kingdom of heaven as part of this -[3715.24 --> 3721.12] long explanation of the end times, you have to read it and understand it in the context -[3721.12 --> 3729.46] of Jesus' teaching that the kingdom is both present and current in reality and a future -[3729.46 --> 3730.54] reality to come. -[3730.54 --> 3736.92] And that these biblical realities come together in the heart and in the mind of the believer -[3736.92 --> 3741.86] to form our new creation realities. -[3742.46 --> 3750.90] Being a disciple of Jesus, believing in and by grace through faith is to be made new and -[3750.90 --> 3757.18] is to be being made new and is to one day be made new. -[3757.18 --> 3767.66] The fact of the present kingdom reality is a guarantee of the future kingdom reality. -[3767.66 --> 3775.92] And that the truth of the future kingdom reality is an assurance in the midst of our present reality. -[3778.02 --> 3785.58] And so you see, separated from this context, the parable of the talents or of the bags of gold -[3785.58 --> 3792.60] can be manipulated or misunderstood to be about wise investment strategies. -[3792.60 --> 3794.42] Because who doesn't want to double their investment? -[3794.42 --> 3803.60] Right, separated from this context, this parable can be about how to use wealth properly. -[3805.04 --> 3810.76] Cynically, this parable, separated from this context, can be read as a cautionary tale against the -[3810.76 --> 3816.72] capitalistic structures and the unfair distribution of wealth about the rich getting rich off the backs -[3816.72 --> 3818.34] and fears of the marginalized. -[3818.34 --> 3827.62] Now, to be sure, I read examples this week of these interpretations of this parable. -[3828.52 --> 3835.98] And again, to be fair, Jesus and the rest of the Bible calls us to a measure of wisdom with our finances -[3835.98 --> 3838.52] and in our personal management in life. -[3838.52 --> 3844.14] And we are called to protect the marginalized and to care for the least of these in our midst -[3844.14 --> 3848.28] and to provide for them, just not from this parable. -[3850.12 --> 3850.34] Right? -[3850.42 --> 3855.12] That reading reduces the teaching of Jesus in this parable to a moralism. -[3855.70 --> 3860.42] And this is a parable of the kingdom and how the promised return of the master -[3860.42 --> 3865.30] directly impacts what kingdom life looks like right now. -[3865.30 --> 3873.18] Like I said at the beginning, when this is all there is, you need it to be everything. -[3873.86 --> 3880.20] And when you need this to be everything, you will live afraid to lose it. -[3881.80 --> 3885.22] Or you will live as if it's never enough. -[3886.68 --> 3887.74] Because it's not. -[3888.30 --> 3889.08] And it can't be. -[3889.08 --> 3897.74] And if that's the way you see your life and that this is everything, if you lose this, you've lost everything. -[3899.02 --> 3906.38] When this world is all that there is, or when this world rather isn't all that there is, -[3907.40 --> 3914.40] you can give away the things of this world for the glory of your master who will return. -[3914.40 --> 3924.94] You can imagine followers of Jesus who are first reading the Gospel of Matthew, -[3925.04 --> 3926.98] are first reading this account that we have here. -[3927.32 --> 3931.42] The Gospel of Matthew was likely written sometime in the mid-60s. -[3932.30 --> 3937.34] Now, there are modern scholars who say it was later, but they say that based on some assumptions that I don't agree with. -[3937.34 --> 3944.32] It was likely written in the mid-60s, some 30 years after Jesus' death, resurrection, and ascension, -[3944.54 --> 3947.68] and a few years before the destruction of Jerusalem. -[3949.00 --> 3954.82] Now, most of these first disciples thought for sure that Jesus would return quickly. -[3955.96 --> 3956.18] Right? -[3956.26 --> 3959.70] The angel said, in the same way that you have seen him go, he will come back. -[3959.72 --> 3961.44] And they thought, okay, start the clock. -[3961.44 --> 3962.04] Right? -[3962.76 --> 3963.72] Surely by next week. -[3964.48 --> 3968.88] Then Pentecost happened, which was in a sense, right, the return of Jesus of the Spirit. -[3969.74 --> 3970.90] And then they waited again. -[3971.78 --> 3977.64] And days turned into months, turned into years, turned into decades, and the master hadn't returned. -[3978.98 --> 3984.86] And so part of Matthew's theological purpose in including this parable and shaping these chapters -[3984.86 --> 3990.46] the way that he has written them is to remind them, these early disciples, -[3990.60 --> 3995.32] and to offer proof and conviction again that Jesus will return. -[3996.14 --> 3999.22] In verse 19 of chapter 25, we read, -[3999.54 --> 4004.70] After a long time, the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them. -[4004.80 --> 4006.32] He is coming back. -[4006.62 --> 4007.46] That's the guarantee. -[4008.74 --> 4011.40] And when he does, there will be questions. -[4013.28 --> 4014.44] There will be judgment. -[4014.86 --> 4023.30] Now, that's a word that people in our culture, even in our churches, don't like. -[4024.64 --> 4025.12] Judgment. -[4026.44 --> 4026.54] Right? -[4026.62 --> 4031.28] People bandy about the phrase, judge not lest ye be judged. -[4031.36 --> 4033.70] And I don't mean to dismiss that because those are the words of Jesus. -[4035.10 --> 4035.26] Right? -[4035.68 --> 4038.32] More commonly, someone might say, who am I to judge? -[4038.32 --> 4045.06] And yet, right, we make judgments, and we must make certain judgments. -[4045.38 --> 4051.46] And further than that, Jesus, the master, right, God, must also make judgments. -[4051.46 --> 4058.34] In our culture, perhaps too quickly, we correlate judgment with punishment. -[4058.34 --> 4062.28] But in order to give a reward, you have to make a judgment. -[4063.24 --> 4067.78] So, yes, we have judges that adjudicate in courts and hand out punishments when you've -[4067.78 --> 4068.60] transgressed the law. -[4068.76 --> 4073.60] But we also have judges who make decisions in sport and hand out gold medals. -[4075.12 --> 4075.22] Right? -[4075.34 --> 4078.64] Punishment and reward both require a judgment. -[4079.98 --> 4086.12] Now, to be sure, right, we have to use wisdom in making judgments. -[4086.12 --> 4089.04] We need to be slow in making judgments. -[4089.18 --> 4093.58] We should walk a mile in the shoes of others and those with whom we are making these sorts -[4093.58 --> 4094.62] of discernments together. -[4094.92 --> 4097.50] And we must have a standard of accountability. -[4097.86 --> 4100.32] We must have a structure and a rule and a purpose. -[4101.20 --> 4102.70] And again, let's be clear, right? -[4102.74 --> 4106.10] The Bible does say, do not judge or you too will be judged. -[4106.20 --> 4108.76] For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged. -[4108.82 --> 4111.88] And with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. -[4112.68 --> 4113.72] That's Matthew 7. -[4113.72 --> 4120.98] And Paul says in 1 Corinthians, what business of it is mine to judge those outside the church? -[4121.86 --> 4128.10] But then Paul immediately says, are you not to judge those inside? -[4130.10 --> 4135.84] Now, again, let's move slowly here because this can get really scary. -[4135.84 --> 4140.02] And there are all sorts of abuses of power that are possible here. -[4140.42 --> 4145.62] And I want to be really, really clear and hopefully in the midst of this, really, really humble. -[4146.58 --> 4153.42] But I need you to make discernments and to make decisions and to make recognitions and, yes, -[4153.50 --> 4160.16] even judgments about my life and about my faith and about my doctrine, about my holiness. -[4160.16 --> 4163.84] I need you to hold me accountable to that. -[4164.64 --> 4167.92] And in some sense, you need to make a judgment. -[4168.10 --> 4171.36] You need to make a discernment and hold me to that standard. -[4173.06 --> 4182.28] Now, that standard, again, needs to not be a human law or a projection of your own preferences and personal tastes. -[4182.28 --> 4182.78] Right? -[4182.84 --> 4184.64] You might not like the way I preach. -[4185.72 --> 4186.72] And that's okay. -[4187.64 --> 4189.44] We can still get along with me. -[4189.66 --> 4190.82] But don't judge me for that. -[4191.34 --> 4192.62] That's a preference question. -[4193.78 --> 4194.24] Right? -[4194.46 --> 4196.98] But judge me if I'm unfaithful to my calling. -[4197.78 --> 4199.56] And hold me accountable to that. -[4200.68 --> 4204.96] That the standard that we have needs to be the word of God, the holiness of God. -[4204.96 --> 4210.04] And, yes, God calls us to a really high bar of holiness as Christians. -[4210.40 --> 4210.58] Right? -[4210.62 --> 4212.24] In our ethics and in our morality. -[4212.76 --> 4217.52] But in the power of the Holy Spirit, right, living and coursing through us, -[4217.80 --> 4223.20] we are also made able to live faithfully to that high bar. -[4223.34 --> 4226.74] To respond in obedience to the call of God on our lives. -[4226.82 --> 4230.84] To live even abundantly under that high bar. -[4230.84 --> 4238.24] And when we do that together, when we make those types of properly directed and focused judgments, -[4238.54 --> 4244.02] we are doing what the church is supposed to do together. -[4244.52 --> 4244.88] Right? -[4244.88 --> 4247.90] We're practicing discipline and discipleship together. -[4248.06 --> 4250.76] And that is a good thing. -[4251.68 --> 4252.28] Right? -[4252.32 --> 4254.70] In calling one another back to holiness. -[4255.08 --> 4258.58] Back to the design of God for our life and our lives together. -[4258.58 --> 4259.02] Right? -[4259.02 --> 4263.80] Not only are we practicing proper love, biblical love, where Jesus says, -[4263.96 --> 4267.08] if you love me, you will keep my commandments kind of love. -[4267.38 --> 4267.56] Right? -[4267.66 --> 4271.78] But it's a proper outworking of the love that God has for us. -[4273.18 --> 4279.70] And so we're also teaching each other and reminding each other to fix our eyes on Jesus, -[4279.96 --> 4282.28] the author and perfecter of our faith. -[4282.28 --> 4287.08] And reminding each other that Jesus will return, that the master will come back, -[4287.14 --> 4293.56] and he will make judgments about how we have been faithful in a few things that he has given us. -[4294.12 --> 4298.98] How we have been faithful in service to his mission in the world. -[4299.42 --> 4304.24] How we have been faithful in seeking first his kingdom and his righteousness. -[4304.24 --> 4310.36] How we have been faithful in proclaiming the glory of God and living for his glory together. -[4310.36 --> 4312.36] How we have been faithful in a few things that he has given us. -[4312.36 --> 4318.00] In 1 Peter, you can read chapter 1, verse 17. -[4319.00 --> 4322.82] Since you call on a father who judges each person's work impartially, -[4323.32 --> 4328.04] live out your time as foreigners here in reverent fear. -[4329.22 --> 4334.12] Live in proper relationship and submission to who God is. -[4334.12 --> 4340.78] Have your loves rightly ordered, your view of the world properly in balance, -[4340.92 --> 4346.22] focusing on the kingdom of heaven as we live here and now on earth. -[4347.20 --> 4350.02] Paul in Ephesians makes a similar point. -[4350.18 --> 4352.86] And here he's actually speaking to slaves. -[4353.70 --> 4353.84] Right? -[4353.98 --> 4356.04] Slaves who had become Christians. -[4356.54 --> 4358.08] And then he speaks to their masters. -[4358.08 --> 4359.98] And he says first to the slaves, -[4360.28 --> 4364.30] Serve wholeheartedly as if you were serving the Lord, not people. -[4364.72 --> 4369.18] Because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do, -[4369.38 --> 4370.98] whether they are slave or free. -[4371.74 --> 4375.22] And then masters, treat your slaves in the same way. -[4375.76 --> 4376.80] Do not threaten them, -[4377.08 --> 4382.02] since you know that he who is both their master and yours is in heaven -[4382.02 --> 4384.98] and there is no favoritism with him. -[4384.98 --> 4388.78] Whether you are a slave or a master in this life, -[4388.84 --> 4391.88] you must live and serve the master of the next. -[4392.56 --> 4396.70] He will return and he will judge and he will issue reward. -[4398.04 --> 4402.80] Now as Christians, as Christians, please hear this. -[4403.72 --> 4407.40] We don't have to fear that judgment. -[4409.16 --> 4412.98] As Christians, we know that there is now no condemnation -[4412.98 --> 4416.18] for those who are in Christ Jesus our Lord. -[4416.26 --> 4418.50] That Jesus has lived the life I should have lived -[4418.50 --> 4420.98] and that Jesus has died the death that I deserve -[4420.98 --> 4422.98] as the punishment of God for my sin. -[4423.16 --> 4425.92] That the wrath of God for all that I have done wrong -[4425.92 --> 4428.12] is borne by him on the cross. -[4429.04 --> 4431.70] And we know that the one who judges -[4431.70 --> 4433.70] is also the one who justifies. -[4434.06 --> 4435.64] And as the one who justifies, -[4435.74 --> 4437.44] he has sent his spirit of grace -[4437.44 --> 4439.00] into our hearts and minds -[4439.00 --> 4441.48] that we might believe in him, -[4441.54 --> 4444.38] that we might cling to him for our salvation. -[4445.42 --> 4448.30] Right here today, that he gave up everything -[4448.30 --> 4451.76] to give you the one thing that you did not deserve, -[4452.64 --> 4452.98] himself. -[4454.46 --> 4456.72] He gave us himself. -[4457.24 --> 4460.14] God has truly given us everything -[4460.14 --> 4461.68] in giving us himself. -[4461.68 --> 4466.28] And since he has given us everything, -[4466.96 --> 4474.22] is there anything he can't ask of you in return? -[4476.32 --> 4478.70] Salvation has cost me nothing -[4478.70 --> 4481.76] because it cost Jesus his life. -[4482.20 --> 4486.76] And so even if following him costs me everything, -[4487.10 --> 4489.62] even if it costs me my life, -[4489.62 --> 4493.72] that is a price I have to be willing to pay. -[4497.72 --> 4502.46] I believe that there is a sweetness, -[4503.96 --> 4506.02] that there is a majesty -[4506.02 --> 4508.62] and a compelling beauty -[4508.62 --> 4510.64] to the words of the master -[4510.64 --> 4512.72] when at the end he says, -[4512.98 --> 4517.22] well done, good and faithful servant. -[4517.22 --> 4521.04] Live for the well done, -[4521.54 --> 4524.36] good and faithful servant. -[4527.36 --> 4528.32] If you know me, -[4529.38 --> 4530.42] you know that -[4530.42 --> 4536.40] I don't really focus on age or my age. -[4537.30 --> 4539.70] You know, turning 30 wasn't a big deal to me. -[4539.98 --> 4541.64] Now 30 is almost 10 years behind me. -[4541.70 --> 4542.94] Turning 40 next year, -[4543.18 --> 4544.38] not a big deal to me. -[4544.38 --> 4546.28] I know that there are some of you who are like, -[4546.36 --> 4547.44] nope, I turned 40 -[4547.44 --> 4548.98] and that's where my counting stopped. -[4550.48 --> 4550.88] Right? -[4551.04 --> 4553.32] Where age matters to you -[4553.32 --> 4556.88] and there's a sense of fear around it -[4556.88 --> 4559.54] or if not fear, -[4559.66 --> 4561.14] there's at least a sense of, -[4561.70 --> 4563.50] do I really have to get older? -[4565.98 --> 4567.72] No, that being the case, -[4568.10 --> 4568.28] you know, -[4568.32 --> 4570.26] there was never a birthday -[4570.26 --> 4570.88] where I went, -[4570.96 --> 4571.92] oh man, now I'm old. -[4571.92 --> 4574.18] But there was a birthday -[4574.18 --> 4576.80] that caused me to think -[4576.80 --> 4578.92] about the cost of discipleship. -[4579.52 --> 4580.60] I will never forget -[4580.60 --> 4582.34] the day that I turned 33. -[4584.54 --> 4586.68] My daughter Nora was in swimming lessons -[4586.68 --> 4588.70] and I was watching her out in the pool -[4588.70 --> 4590.42] and I was standing off to the side -[4590.42 --> 4591.14] and it hit me. -[4592.28 --> 4592.68] 33, -[4592.68 --> 4597.50] 33 was the age at which Jesus died. -[4599.50 --> 4602.18] His faithfulness to the Father -[4602.18 --> 4603.70] cost him his life. -[4604.86 --> 4606.78] What was Jesus going to ask of me -[4606.78 --> 4607.88] in my 33rd year? -[4608.48 --> 4609.48] That's what I wondered about. -[4610.66 --> 4612.38] What was it going to cost me -[4612.38 --> 4614.66] as a disciple of Jesus? -[4614.66 --> 4620.04] And are we willing to bear that cost? -[4621.88 --> 4622.84] Now I'm aware, -[4623.38 --> 4625.10] particularly for myself now, -[4625.26 --> 4626.06] as a pastor, -[4627.00 --> 4628.22] that the cost -[4628.22 --> 4630.92] of my discipleship -[4630.92 --> 4632.66] affects more than me. -[4633.80 --> 4635.32] The cost of my discipleship -[4635.32 --> 4636.52] in some way affects you -[4636.52 --> 4639.18] as people in our church together, -[4639.30 --> 4640.26] but most importantly -[4640.26 --> 4641.96] and most precisely -[4641.96 --> 4643.08] and presciently right now, -[4643.08 --> 4644.50] the cost of my discipleship -[4644.50 --> 4645.36] affects my family, -[4646.32 --> 4647.66] my wife and kids -[4647.66 --> 4649.68] who have to follow me -[4649.68 --> 4650.76] if I'm called somewhere, -[4652.88 --> 4655.36] who have to bear the cost -[4655.36 --> 4656.62] of my discipleship -[4656.62 --> 4659.06] in a way that you guys don't. -[4662.60 --> 4663.52] I'm aware -[4663.52 --> 4665.24] that the cost -[4665.24 --> 4666.92] of following Jesus, -[4667.16 --> 4667.82] that the cost -[4667.82 --> 4669.80] of following the Master, -[4670.02 --> 4672.00] of living for the well-done, -[4672.16 --> 4673.06] good and faithful servant, -[4673.08 --> 4674.60] and affects more than just me, -[4674.70 --> 4675.58] but it affects the people -[4675.58 --> 4676.76] around me. -[4677.18 --> 4677.56] But, -[4678.04 --> 4681.20] I also believe, -[4682.18 --> 4683.34] I also know -[4683.34 --> 4684.86] in the depths of my heart, -[4685.14 --> 4686.38] when I'm my best self -[4686.38 --> 4687.48] in relationship to Jesus, -[4687.92 --> 4690.00] that it is worth it. -[4691.16 --> 4692.58] That it is worth it. -[4692.62 --> 4693.92] That the kingdom of heaven -[4693.92 --> 4695.08] and the glory of God -[4695.08 --> 4697.20] far outweighs -[4697.20 --> 4699.28] any lesser glory -[4699.28 --> 4700.56] that this world has to offer. -[4700.56 --> 4702.60] And so I go, -[4703.60 --> 4704.86] and I invite you -[4704.86 --> 4705.86] to come. -[4706.94 --> 4708.02] I invite you -[4708.02 --> 4708.68] to go -[4708.68 --> 4709.64] and live -[4709.64 --> 4711.72] for the well-done, -[4712.36 --> 4712.68] good -[4712.68 --> 4713.94] and faithful -[4713.94 --> 4715.08] servant. -[4716.12 --> 4717.16] The cost -[4717.16 --> 4718.10] is -[4718.10 --> 4719.46] worth it. -[4720.04 --> 4720.26] Amen? -[4721.26 --> 4721.84] Amen. -[4721.96 --> 4722.62] Let's pray together. -[4722.62 --> 4730.26] Lord Jesus, -[4730.76 --> 4731.60] as we -[4731.60 --> 4734.08] imagine now -[4734.08 --> 4735.08] the cost -[4735.08 --> 4736.82] of our discipleship, -[4736.88 --> 4737.64] as we imagine -[4737.64 --> 4738.34] now -[4738.34 --> 4740.48] the responsibility -[4740.48 --> 4741.70] of following -[4741.70 --> 4742.66] after you, -[4742.84 --> 4744.04] may we do so, -[4744.24 --> 4744.44] God, -[4744.52 --> 4745.64] not alone, -[4746.64 --> 4748.18] not apart, -[4748.66 --> 4749.82] and by ourselves, -[4750.06 --> 4751.12] but as a part -[4751.12 --> 4752.10] of this community, -[4753.06 --> 4753.90] as a part -[4753.90 --> 4754.96] of this church, -[4755.10 --> 4756.18] this family, -[4756.32 --> 4756.76] this group -[4756.76 --> 4757.90] of brothers and sisters -[4757.90 --> 4758.80] who have been called -[4758.80 --> 4759.56] by you -[4759.56 --> 4760.84] to bear the cost -[4760.84 --> 4761.94] of our discipleship -[4761.94 --> 4762.68] together. -[4763.88 --> 4765.16] May we go -[4765.16 --> 4766.34] in the power -[4766.34 --> 4767.96] of your coming. -[4769.08 --> 4769.92] May we go -[4769.92 --> 4771.26] bearing the cost -[4771.26 --> 4771.98] of discipleship -[4771.98 --> 4772.86] because you -[4772.86 --> 4774.22] bore the cross, -[4774.38 --> 4775.64] and it was for the joy -[4775.64 --> 4776.82] set before you -[4776.82 --> 4777.80] that you endured -[4777.80 --> 4778.36] the cross -[4778.36 --> 4779.44] and scorned its shame, -[4779.44 --> 4780.36] and so may it be -[4780.36 --> 4781.38] for the joy -[4781.38 --> 4782.76] set before us, -[4782.90 --> 4783.40] the kingdom -[4783.40 --> 4784.40] of heaven, -[4784.72 --> 4785.64] and seeing you -[4785.64 --> 4787.06] face to face, -[4787.46 --> 4788.30] may it be that we -[4788.30 --> 4789.42] go now -[4789.42 --> 4792.52] willing to bear -[4792.52 --> 4793.10] the cost, -[4793.24 --> 4794.42] whatever it -[4794.42 --> 4795.60] may be. -[4796.26 --> 4797.18] Make us willing -[4797.18 --> 4797.80] and able, -[4797.92 --> 4798.30] I pray, -[4798.44 --> 4799.10] in the name -[4799.10 --> 4799.98] of Jesus, -[4800.40 --> 4801.48] our Christ. -[4801.70 --> 4802.08] Take -[4802.08 --> 4803.72] my life -[4803.72 --> 4805.82] and let it be. -[4807.28 --> 4807.80] Amen. -[4809.44 --> 4839.42] Amen. -[4839.44 --> 4849.00] Take my life and let it be -[4849.00 --> 4854.64] Consecrate the Lord to Thee -[4854.64 --> 4860.30] Take my moments and my days -[4860.30 --> 4866.02] Let them flow in endless praise -[4866.02 --> 4872.50] Let them flow in endless praise -[4872.50 --> 4878.80] Take my silver and my gold -[4878.80 --> 4883.80] What am I, good I withhold -[4883.80 --> 4890.38] Take my intellect and use -[4890.38 --> 4896.14] Every power as thou shalt choose -[4896.14 --> 4902.70] Every power as thou shalt choose -[4902.70 --> 4909.66] Take my will and make it thine -[4909.66 --> 4915.82] It shall be no longer mine -[4915.82 --> 4922.36] Take my heart, it is thine own -[4922.36 --> 4928.38] It shall be thy royal throne -[4928.38 --> 4934.86] It shall be thy royal throne -[4934.86 --> 4943.30] Take my love, my Lord, I hold -[4943.30 --> 4948.86] And guide me with treasure's hope -[4948.86 --> 4956.22] Take my self and thy will be -[4956.22 --> 4962.34] Ever only all for thee -[4962.34 --> 4969.34] Ever only all for thee -[4969.34 --> 4979.66] As you go into this week -[4979.66 --> 4982.82] counting the cost of being the disciple of Jesus -[4982.82 --> 4985.92] know that God himself goes with you -[4985.92 --> 4987.74] and so receive the blessing -[4987.74 --> 4989.66] and the power of his name -[4989.66 --> 4991.72] over you as you go -[4991.72 --> 4994.66] May God go before you -[4994.66 --> 4995.72] to guide you -[4995.72 --> 4997.76] May God go behind you -[4997.76 --> 4998.92] to protect you -[4998.92 --> 5000.96] May God go beneath you -[5000.96 --> 5001.88] to support you -[5001.88 --> 5003.62] and may God go beside you -[5003.62 --> 5004.74] to befriend you -[5004.74 --> 5006.56] Do not be afraid -[5006.56 --> 5008.42] Let the blessing of God -[5008.42 --> 5009.28] come upon you today -[5009.28 --> 5011.04] Do not be afraid -[5011.04 --> 5013.60] But go in peace -[5013.60 --> 5016.68] to love and serve the Lord -[5016.68 --> 5018.50] Amen -[5025.72 --> 5029.68] Now unto the King eternal -[5029.68 --> 5050.66] Now unto the King eternal -[5050.66 --> 5055.66] Unto the King immortal -[5055.66 --> 5060.66] Unto the King immortal -[5060.66 --> 5065.66] Unto the King invisible -[5065.66 --> 5070.66] The only wise God -[5070.66 --> 5075.66] The only wise God -[5075.66 --> 5082.66] The only wise God -[5082.66 --> 5083.66] Oh unto the King eternal -[5083.66 --> 5084.66] Oh unto the King eternal -[5084.66 --> 5085.66] Unto the King eternal -[5085.66 --> 5086.66] The only wise God -[5086.66 --> 5087.66] The only wise God -[5087.66 --> 5092.66] The only wise God -[5092.66 --> 5093.66] Oh unto the King eternal -[5093.66 --> 5094.66] The only wise God -[5094.66 --> 5095.66] The only wise God -[5095.66 --> 5096.66] The only wise God -[5096.66 --> 5100.66] The only wise God -[5100.66 --> 5104.66] The only wise God -[5104.66 --> 5106.66] Oh unto the King eternal -[5106.66 --> 5108.66] Oh unto the King eternal -[5108.66 --> 5109.66] Oh unto the King eternal -[5109.66 --> 5111.66] Oh unto the King eternal -[5111.66 --> 5113.66] To be glory and honor -[5113.66 --> 5114.66] Oh unto the King eternal -[5114.66 --> 5115.66] For ever -[5115.66 --> 5116.66] Oh unto the King eternal -[5116.66 --> 5120.58] forever -[5120.58 --> 5127.02] Do this date in the glory and honor forever. -[5129.22 --> 5131.94] Forever. -[5134.44 --> 5135.96] Amen. -[5139.68 --> 5141.48] Amen. -[5144.94 --> 5145.44] Amen. -[5150.58 --> 5180.56] Thank you. -[5180.58 --> 5210.56] Thank you. -[5210.58 --> 5240.56] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 11 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 11 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 081be3565f622294cf402e0c8f922338e151b076..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 11 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,67 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction and apology for technical issues with presentation system -• Explanation of alternative arrangements for worship service -• Announcement of various volunteer opportunities -• Invitation to fellowship and coffee hour after the service -• Call to worship from Psalm 105, verses 1-3 -• Music performance (song lyrics not provided) -• Worship and praise of God -• Confession of sins and asking for mercy -• Acknowledging the struggle with faith and doubt -• Returning to God's mercies and seeking pardon -• Praise and thanksgiving for God's goodness, grace, and redemption through Jesus Christ -• Expressing hope in Christ and His power to overcome life's challenges -• Personal devotion and prayer -• Singing and praising God -• Kids' blessing and children's worship time -• Prayer for the kids, family, and church community -• Practice of saying "The Lord be with you" to the congregation -• Discussion of church offerings and budget -• Special offering for Life Recovery, a Christian charity that supports women overcoming addiction -• Upcoming special offering for North American Indigenous Ministry (NAME) in support of Tim and Charity Johnson's work -• Scripture readings from Proverbs 3 and Acts 20 on giving and generosity -• Instructions for donating to the church budget and special offerings -• Memorial announcement for Mike Miles, son of Willie and Joanne Miles -• Congregational prayer requests for various individuals and groups, including the family of Mike Miles, those experiencing illness or isolation, and the people of Lytton. -• Opening prayer for leaders and government officials -• Introductions and informal remarks about golfing with Pastor Chris -• Reference to 7-11's Free Slurpee Day -• Introduction to sermon series "Ask Anything" and discussion of a submitted question -• Exploration of the question: Does the name we call God matter for our salvation? -• Clarification of nuances in the question, including language vs. doctrine of God -• Announcement of upcoming biblical text from John 14 -• Jesus' words in John 14:1-7 about being the way and the truth and the life -• The coexist sticker, its meaning and impact on culture -• Conforming to others vs. holding true to one's own faith -• Religious pluralism as a movement that emphasizes morality over specific beliefs -• Critique of religious pluralism for downplaying the importance of Jesus' teachings -• Religious pluralism is described as accepting that people are heading in the same direction but on different paths -• Convinced that trying to convert others is arrogant and intolerant -• A religious pluralist believes all people worship the same God with different names -• Criticized for assuming that all religions are equal and worshipping the same deity -• Example given of two individuals, one from a church and one new to it, illustrating that they could be in love but their belief systems would be vastly different -• A hypothetical situation involving adulterous behavior and its consequences in a marital relationship. -• The importance of directing one's love and devotion exclusively to God, rather than idolizing another entity or concept. -• The Christian doctrine of salvation through Jesus Christ as distinct from moralism and self-salvation. -• The uniqueness of Christianity in affirming that Jesus is the only way to God, truth, and life. -• A comparison between Christian and other religious beliefs about Jesus, highlighting their differences. -• The importance of being connected to Jesus for spiritual fruitfulness -• Salvation is found only through faith in Jesus Christ -• Christianity offers salvation not for good people, but for those who acknowledge their own sinfulness and need a Savior -• Jesus is the only way, truth, and life, and no one can receive salvation but through him -• The importance of sharing the gospel with others and being bold in doing so -• The sacrifice and gift of Jesus Christ -• The importance of remembering and commemorating the death and resurrection of Christ through communion (the Lord's Supper) -• Invitation to come to the table of the Lord for salvation and forgiveness -• Communion ritual and prayer -• Discussion about identity, worship, and clarity on who Jesus is and what He has done -• Reference to the Last Supper and Jesus' words about the bread and cup as symbols of His body and blood -• Invitation to participate in a sacrament or ritual -• Sharing in the blood of life and receiving God's blessings -• Responding in prayer and faith, following Christ's steps -• Proclaiming Christ's return and joining with the peace of God -• Singing a final song and receiving a blessing from God -• The hope of eternal life through Christ -• Faith in God's goodness and redemption -• Trust in Christ to overcome fears, trials, and death -• Confidence in Christ as the rock that holds our days and souls -• Singing hallelujah and confessing Christ as hope in all things \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 11 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 11 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 49b88b90d8f4e6cce24a2c0dca493eaf799522b9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 11 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1007 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 18.36] Good morning. -[20.50 --> 23.32] Welcome to church. -[23.96 --> 28.32] So, this morning, you probably noticed, if you're here on the way in, -[28.32 --> 31.42] or if you're participating online, that things looked a little different. -[32.00 --> 38.74] And that's because our pro-presenter system has decided it's not going to work today. -[39.24 --> 41.02] And so that means we have no overhead projection. -[41.46 --> 46.46] If you're on the live stream, that means you have no cards or titles or lyrics or anything. -[46.90 --> 49.68] So our humblest apologies for that. -[50.52 --> 54.10] If you are a member here, however, you did receive an e-bulletin, -[54.10 --> 56.58] and in the e-bulletin is an order of worship. -[56.58 --> 58.80] So you can see the songs that are coming, -[58.92 --> 62.28] and then you can use your phone or your device or whatever to find the lyrics that way. -[62.62 --> 65.56] That'll be the best way to sing along with us here. -[66.50 --> 69.82] For those of us here, you have it all on paper, believe it or not. -[70.26 --> 71.06] I know, right? -[72.20 --> 74.96] There's also a couple handouts that go with Pastor Kevin's sermon -[74.96 --> 79.08] that will help in that point as well. -[79.26 --> 82.96] So, let me say, welcome to church. -[82.96 --> 86.56] I know for some of you, this is the first time back since we've regathered, -[86.56 --> 88.94] because we've only been doing this for two weeks in this capacity. -[89.24 --> 91.62] And so we're so glad to have you here. -[92.40 --> 94.84] My name is Chris, and I am one of the pastors here. -[94.94 --> 98.98] And it's my privilege, along with these others, to lead us in worship -[98.98 --> 103.30] and later in our service to lead us in the table. -[103.64 --> 107.18] And so if you are at home, I invite you to have some elements ready, -[107.36 --> 111.08] some bread and juice that you can participate in that with us. -[111.08 --> 113.80] Before we begin, I just want to make one more announcement. -[114.06 --> 116.30] And a number of you have heard this one already, -[116.42 --> 119.42] but we are busy looking for volunteers. -[120.02 --> 124.32] Volunteers both for the summer and for work being done into the future. -[125.14 --> 128.20] And so we still need a couple people to sign up for nursery -[128.20 --> 129.58] through the summer months. -[129.76 --> 132.80] And so you can, at the back table there, there will be someone, -[132.90 --> 136.12] or you can contact Brenda Alkema to help round out that list. -[136.12 --> 141.58] As well, we are looking for a GEMS co-coordinator. -[141.96 --> 144.72] And so this is someone who will work in our GEMS group, -[144.82 --> 146.64] which is a young girls ministry. -[147.50 --> 149.28] And they will work with Courtney, who's at the back. -[149.36 --> 149.90] Courtney Wave. -[150.62 --> 151.46] Everyone, that's Courtney. -[152.18 --> 153.88] Courtney is the current coordinator. -[154.00 --> 156.14] She's looking for someone to partner with her in that. -[156.26 --> 159.66] So she's fine with doing the weekly meetings and stuff, -[159.74 --> 161.70] but she's looking for someone who can help behind the scenes. -[161.70 --> 164.22] And so if you're more of a behind-the-scenes administrator, -[165.06 --> 167.50] connect with Courtney and bless her in that way. -[168.38 --> 171.42] As well, we're looking for children's worship time coordinators. -[171.68 --> 175.00] And so if you have some ideas or hopes or desires, -[175.16 --> 176.60] or you feel God leading you in that, -[177.04 --> 181.32] talk to myself or Pastor Kevin or Nikki following the service, -[181.40 --> 183.34] and we can get that all together. -[184.74 --> 186.38] Also, for those of us who are here, -[186.68 --> 189.06] we have confirmed the coffee is brewing. -[189.06 --> 193.96] So apologies for last week's feeble attempt. -[194.22 --> 196.90] So far this week, it seems to be working. -[197.32 --> 201.50] So please stick around for fellowship after our worship together. -[201.60 --> 204.44] And you can do that in this space or in the air-conditioned foyer -[204.44 --> 207.82] or out in the courtyard or outside here in the park. -[208.54 --> 211.22] But just stick around, share life and story together. -[212.06 --> 214.38] We gather to worship our God because he is good, -[214.46 --> 216.24] and he calls us to worship him. -[216.30 --> 218.10] And so as you're able, I'm going to invite you to stand. -[218.10 --> 222.20] We can receive God's greeting as we are ushered into his presence. -[224.54 --> 226.84] Receive the greeting of our good God. -[228.56 --> 232.04] Grace, mercy, and peace to you. -[232.60 --> 236.46] From God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, -[236.86 --> 239.46] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[240.46 --> 240.80] Amen. -[241.48 --> 242.58] Let's worship God together. -[242.58 --> 246.76] Good morning and welcome to worship. -[247.42 --> 251.36] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 105, verses 1 to 3. -[252.14 --> 253.14] Give thanks to the Lord. -[253.44 --> 254.24] Call on his name. -[254.58 --> 256.76] Make known among the nations what he has done. -[257.40 --> 258.02] Sing to him. -[258.28 --> 259.44] Sing praise to him. -[259.88 --> 261.60] Tell of all his wondrous acts. -[262.24 --> 263.66] Glory in his holy name. -[264.10 --> 266.46] Let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. -[266.46 --> 292.02] Lord, I lift your name on high. -[292.02 --> 295.50] Lord, I love to sing your praises. -[297.58 --> 302.38] I'm so glad you're in my life. -[302.64 --> 307.32] I'm so glad you came to save us. -[307.68 --> 313.00] You came from heaven to earth to show the way. -[313.00 --> 318.12] From the earth to the cross, my debt to pay. -[318.12 --> 320.70] From the cross to the grave. -[320.92 --> 323.36] From the grave to the sky. -[323.62 --> 326.56] Lord, I lift your name on high. -[328.56 --> 332.00] Lord, I lift your name on high. -[332.00 --> 361.06] Lord, I lift your name on high. -[361.06 --> 369.78] From the cross to the grave, from the grave to the sky, Lord, I lift your name on high. -[369.78 --> 381.00] You came from heaven to earth to show the way, from the earth to the cross, my death to play. -[381.00 --> 390.60] From the cross to the grave, from the grave to the sky, Lord, I lift your name on high. -[391.06 --> 396.06] Lord, I lift your name on high. -[400.06 --> 401.86] Join me in our prayer of confession. -[408.26 --> 411.68] Lord, we come before you. -[412.48 --> 418.64] We lift our voices in praise to you as we gather in worship in awe of your splendor and majesty. -[418.64 --> 420.96] Who can compare? -[422.24 --> 425.28] But even in our praises, we fall short. -[426.28 --> 428.06] Every day we fall short. -[429.16 --> 432.34] We are sinful and forgetful people, oh God. -[432.56 --> 434.18] Have mercy on us. -[435.22 --> 441.02] Have mercy on us when we willingly reject you and turn to earthly idols for satisfaction. -[441.02 --> 449.14] Have mercy on us when we harbor anger and spite against those who have pained us or disagree with us. -[449.74 --> 456.70] Have mercy on us when we forget your promises and are consumed with the worries of this world. -[457.62 --> 459.44] Have mercy, oh Lord. -[460.26 --> 462.28] Have mercy on us. -[462.28 --> 483.28] Lord have mercy on me. -[483.28 --> 504.28] Lord have mercy on me. -[504.28 --> 516.28] I've forgotten the words that you have spoken. -[516.28 --> 525.18] Promises that burned within my heart have now grown dim. -[525.18 --> 535.32] With a doubting heart I follow the paths of earthly wisdom. -[536.44 --> 540.36] Forgive me for my unbelief. -[540.36 --> 545.36] Renew the fire again. -[545.36 --> 546.36] Renew the fire again. -[546.36 --> 552.36] Lord have mercy. -[552.36 --> 557.14] Christ have mercy. -[557.14 --> 566.36] Lord have mercy on me. -[566.36 --> 585.36] Lord have mercy on me. -[585.36 --> 586.16] I have mercy on you. -[587.94 --> 589.62] I have mercy on me. -[589.62 --> 589.82] I have mercy on me. -[589.82 --> 590.36] I have mercy on me. -[590.36 --> 591.34] I have mercy on me. -[591.36 --> 592.96] I have mercy on me. -[592.96 --> 597.06] Where I worship things of man. -[598.58 --> 606.64] I have taken journeys that have drawn me far from you. -[606.64 --> 616.34] Now I am returning to your mercies ever flowing -[616.34 --> 626.08] Pardon my transgressions, help me love you again -[626.08 --> 637.38] Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy -[637.38 --> 646.82] Lord have mercy on me -[646.82 --> 656.52] Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy -[656.52 --> 666.30] Lord have mercy on me -[666.30 --> 673.18] I have longed to know you -[673.18 --> 678.58] And all your tender mercies -[678.58 --> 682.10] Like a river of forgiveness -[682.10 --> 687.18] Ever flowing without end -[687.70 --> 692.36] So I bow my heart before you -[692.36 --> 698.32] In the goodness of your presence -[698.32 --> 701.54] Your grace forever shining -[701.54 --> 709.72] Like a beacon in the night -[709.72 --> 719.34] Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy -[719.34 --> 728.34] Lord have mercy on me -[728.34 --> 738.34] Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy -[738.34 --> 747.34] Lord have mercy on me -[747.34 --> 754.20] You hear our cries for mercy, O Lord -[754.20 --> 756.48] You listen to us again and again -[756.48 --> 758.48] Every time we fall short -[758.48 --> 761.52] And you give us life when we deserve death -[761.52 --> 763.68] A free gift of life in you -[763.68 --> 765.42] Christ Jesus, our Lord -[765.42 --> 768.62] What grace, what amazing grace -[768.62 --> 770.76] The sweet assurance you offer -[770.76 --> 772.12] As we come to know you -[772.12 --> 773.56] In your name -[773.56 --> 775.16] In your life -[775.16 --> 776.66] In your death -[776.66 --> 777.80] And your resurrection -[777.80 --> 779.02] Amen -[779.02 --> 796.70] How, in your happiness -[798.14 --> 800.02] So for free -[800.02 --> 824.62] What gift of grace is Jesus my Redeemer? -[824.62 --> 831.56] There is no more for heaven now to give. -[832.22 --> 837.66] He is my joy, my righteousness and freedom, -[838.66 --> 844.80] my steadfast love, my deep and boundless peace. -[845.56 --> 851.24] To this I hope, my hope is only Jesus. -[851.24 --> 858.78] For my life is only bound to His. -[859.46 --> 864.78] Oh, how strange and divine I can sing. -[864.88 --> 871.96] All is mine, yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[871.96 --> 889.02] The night is dark, but I am not forsaken. -[889.88 --> 894.96] For by my side the Savior, He will stay. -[894.96 --> 902.82] I labor on in weakness and rejoicing. -[903.18 --> 908.82] For in my heed His power is displayed. -[910.14 --> 916.68] For this I hope my shepherd will defend me. -[916.68 --> 923.16] Through the deepest valley He will lead. -[924.04 --> 930.18] Oh, the night has been won, and I shall overcome. -[931.02 --> 936.68] Yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[936.68 --> 953.54] No fate I dread, I know I am forgiven. -[953.54 --> 961.32] The future sure, the price it has been paid. -[961.32 --> 967.90] For Jesus bled and suffered for my pardon. -[968.96 --> 975.60] And He was raised to overthrow the grave. -[975.60 --> 981.80] To this I hope my sin has been defeated. -[982.96 --> 988.44] Jesus now and ever is my plea. -[989.94 --> 993.10] Oh, the chains are released. -[993.38 --> 996.48] I can sing, I am free. -[996.48 --> 1002.38] Yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[1002.38 --> 1018.86] With every breath I long to follow Jesus. -[1019.86 --> 1026.38] For He has said that He will bring me home. -[1026.38 --> 1033.52] And day by day I know He will renew me. -[1033.52 --> 1040.08] Until I stand with joy before the throne. -[1041.08 --> 1046.86] To this I hope, my hope is only Jesus. -[1048.32 --> 1054.14] All the glory evermore to Him. -[1054.14 --> 1058.10] When the race is complete. -[1058.10 --> 1061.28] Till my lips shall repeat. -[1061.28 --> 1067.28] Yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[1067.28 --> 1074.18] To this I hope, my hope is only Jesus. -[1074.18 --> 1081.96] All the glory evermore to Him. -[1081.96 --> 1086.04] When the race is complete. -[1086.04 --> 1089.98] Till my lips shall repeat. -[1090.48 --> 1096.60] Yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[1096.60 --> 1103.78] Till my lips shall repeat. -[1103.78 --> 1104.94] Till my lips shall repeat. -[1104.94 --> 1106.26] Till my lips shall repeat. -[1106.26 --> 1106.54] Till my lips shall repeat. -[1106.54 --> 1108.32] Kids, why don't you come on forward, -[1108.40 --> 1111.86] come sit down in the floor here in front of me here for a moment. -[1112.78 --> 1115.48] We're going to do the kids' blessing here in just a second. -[1119.20 --> 1121.24] All right, come on down, come on down. -[1121.24 --> 1121.28] Come on down. -[1121.28 --> 1121.40] Come on down. -[1121.40 --> 1123.20] Come on down. -[1123.20 --> 1125.34] Come on down. -[1125.34 --> 1129.28] All right, here comes a few more. -[1133.44 --> 1134.82] How are you guys doing today? -[1135.72 --> 1136.68] Yeah, we're doing good? -[1136.80 --> 1137.50] How's summer going? -[1138.52 --> 1138.84] Yeah? -[1139.32 --> 1139.68] Good. -[1140.20 --> 1140.78] Good, good. -[1140.88 --> 1144.64] I'm going to lead us in a prayer, and then we're going to do the kids' blessing. -[1144.70 --> 1147.46] And I'm going to remind you how we do the kids' blessing, okay, before we do that. -[1147.48 --> 1151.82] But first, let's pray, and then we'll do the kids' blessing, and then we can go off to children's worship time, okay? -[1152.02 --> 1153.54] So, please pray with me. -[1154.46 --> 1156.06] Dear God, thank you so much for this day. -[1156.22 --> 1161.34] Thank you that we can come to church with our friends, with our brothers and sisters, our family, Lord. -[1161.38 --> 1163.94] And we just are so grateful that we can gather together once again. -[1164.12 --> 1170.28] Thank you for being here, for these kids, for the kids' ministry, children's worship time. -[1170.32 --> 1172.14] We pray that you'll be with them as they head off to that. -[1172.38 --> 1175.50] Help us learn more about you and what it means to be a part of this world. -[1175.56 --> 1179.28] And for all of us non-kids who stay back, may we do the same as well. -[1179.28 --> 1180.38] We pray this in your name. -[1180.86 --> 1181.12] Amen. -[1182.32 --> 1182.68] Amen. -[1182.68 --> 1182.80] Amen. -[1182.92 --> 1184.84] Okay, so we're going to do the kids' blessing. -[1184.94 --> 1185.52] So I'm going to remind you. -[1185.56 --> 1186.34] So let's stand up. -[1187.16 --> 1188.12] So stand up with me. -[1188.90 --> 1194.44] So in a second, we're going to turn around to the church, and we're going to have our hands up, and we're going to say this. -[1194.52 --> 1196.48] We're going to say, the Lord be with you. -[1196.62 --> 1197.74] Can you say that with me right now? -[1197.82 --> 1198.30] Let's practice. -[1198.72 --> 1200.64] The Lord be with you. -[1201.10 --> 1203.00] And then the church is going to say that back to us, okay? -[1203.32 --> 1203.82] Are we ready? -[1204.16 --> 1204.90] Okay, church, up you get. -[1205.36 --> 1206.40] All right, let's turn around. -[1207.14 --> 1207.82] Let's turn around. -[1207.88 --> 1208.70] Look at all these people. -[1208.78 --> 1209.60] Put your hands up. -[1209.60 --> 1211.30] And let's say what we practiced, okay? -[1211.38 --> 1212.50] We're going to say, the Lord be with you. -[1212.52 --> 1212.92] Are you ready? -[1213.60 --> 1214.12] Here we go. -[1214.82 --> 1217.10] The Lord be with you. -[1217.84 --> 1219.30] And also with you. -[1219.42 --> 1219.82] All right. -[1219.86 --> 1223.06] If you are in kindergarten or younger, you can head to children's worship time. -[1223.26 --> 1224.92] And if you're older than that, you can head to your parents. -[1225.32 --> 1227.54] If you need to know where that is. -[1228.26 --> 1228.54] Yes. -[1229.12 --> 1229.34] Yeah. -[1229.34 --> 1229.40] Yeah. -[1231.00 --> 1231.40] Right. -[1231.40 --> 1231.42] Right. -[1231.42 --> 1231.46] Right. -[1231.46 --> 1231.50] Right. -[1231.50 --> 1231.54] Right. -[1231.54 --> 1231.58] Right. -[1231.58 --> 1231.66] Right. -[1231.66 --> 1233.50] Right. -[1233.50 --> 1233.54] Right. -[1233.54 --> 1235.56] Right. -[1235.56 --> 1239.58] Right. -[1239.60 --> 1239.70] Right. -[1252.08 --> 1252.72] Right. -[1252.82 --> 1253.52] Right. -[1253.52 --> 1254.84] So good morning. -[1254.84 --> 1258.38] We continue our worship by giving of our tithes and offerings. -[1258.38 --> 1263.82] And our offerings today are for the budget and the ministries of this church. -[1264.88 --> 1268.34] And our second offering, the special offering, is for Life Recovery. -[1269.36 --> 1272.42] Life Recovery stands for Living in Freedom Every Day, -[1272.86 --> 1278.40] and it is an agency that walks alongside women who are working to overcome addiction. -[1279.00 --> 1284.82] It's located in Abbotsford, and Life Recovery has three residential homes. -[1284.82 --> 1289.60] Women stay there for as short as three months and then for as long as they need to. -[1290.86 --> 1293.12] Life Recovery is a Christian-registered charity, -[1293.44 --> 1299.72] and they are committed to a program that focuses on physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional well-being. -[1301.76 --> 1308.24] Next week, our offering will be for NAME, which stands for North American Indigenous Ministry, -[1308.76 --> 1311.60] and it will be in support of Tim and Charity Johnson -[1311.60 --> 1314.20] and the work that they do with the Shushwat Band. -[1315.40 --> 1319.66] In light of the unmarked burial sites of Kamloops Indian residential students, -[1319.78 --> 1325.28] it is appropriate to give to this ministry as Tim and Charity seek to bring reconciliation through the gospel. -[1326.68 --> 1330.22] And just as an aside, there is an increasing number of NAME staff members -[1330.22 --> 1332.58] who are First Nations Native believers. -[1332.58 --> 1337.80] Hear the word of the Lord regarding offering. -[1338.54 --> 1343.54] Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops. -[1344.54 --> 1345.82] And that's from Proverbs 3. -[1345.82 --> 1350.54] And also from Acts 20, Jesus himself said, -[1350.78 --> 1354.30] It is more blessed to give than receive. -[1354.30 --> 1359.32] And then just as a final note, because we haven't been meeting for a while, -[1359.52 --> 1361.28] only one bag is passed around, -[1362.28 --> 1366.40] and monies to the budget need to be marked in an envelope, -[1366.76 --> 1368.46] so that will then go to the budget. -[1368.46 --> 1371.02] And then any loose change or vouchers, -[1371.54 --> 1374.86] or even if you wrote a check and made it out to a manual -[1374.86 --> 1378.66] and then put it as a side memo to life recovery, -[1378.88 --> 1383.12] then all those monies will be going to our special offering for life recovery. -[1383.12 --> 1386.22] Okay, so do give generously. -[1386.22 --> 1386.42] Okay. -[1413.12 --> 1443.10] Thank you. -[1443.12 --> 1473.10] Thank you. -[1473.12 --> 1475.12] Thank you. -[1475.12 --> 1476.12] Thank you. -[1476.12 --> 1477.12] Thank you. -[1503.12 --> 1505.12] Thank you. -[1505.12 --> 1506.12] Thank you. -[1506.12 --> 1507.12] Thank you. -[1507.12 --> 1508.12] Thank you. -[1508.12 --> 1509.12] Thank you. -[1527.12 --> 1528.24] Well, good morning. -[1528.90 --> 1532.54] I have one announcement before we go to our congregational prayer this morning. -[1532.54 --> 1537.54] Last night, Mike Miles, the son of Willie and Joanne Miles, -[1537.54 --> 1540.38] passed away suddenly and unexpectedly. -[1541.38 --> 1544.10] We don't know all the details surrounding his passing, -[1544.54 --> 1549.28] but the church office will let you know as more details become available. -[1549.28 --> 1561.68] So we want to remember Willie and the entire Miles family in the weeks to come as they breathe loss of Mike. -[1561.68 --> 1566.68] Let's go to our God in prayer. -[1566.68 --> 1567.52] Let's go to our God in prayer. -[1572.68 --> 1576.92] Almighty God, we thank you for calling us to worship on this beautiful morning. -[1576.92 --> 1591.92] Father, we thank you for calling us to worship on this beautiful day and we thank you for the grace and the mercy poured out through the body and blood of Christ. -[1591.92 --> 1604.92] Thank you for the opportunity to remember Christ's death and resurrection through communion this morning. -[1604.92 --> 1608.92] Father, we come to you with the concerns of our congregation this morning. -[1608.92 --> 1616.92] We lift up the family of Mike Miles after he passed away suddenly and unexpectedly yesterday. -[1616.92 --> 1626.92] We ask that you be with Willie and Joanne, their entire family, and that they will experience your comforting presence as they mourn. -[1627.92 --> 1631.92] Bless them and walk beside them in the weeks and the months ahead. -[1631.92 --> 1644.92] Father, we ask that you be with Bob Viss and we pray that the treatments that he is receiving may lead to healing. -[1645.92 --> 1652.92] Father, we also want to ask that you be with those who are shut in and isolated and may be experiencing loneliness or depression as a result. -[1652.92 --> 1661.92] If that we may minister to them in whatever way possible, Lord, and we ask that you be a presence for them. -[1663.92 --> 1673.92] Father, we ask that you deal with all those who are dealing with chronic pain, loss of memory, to be near to them, hold them, sustain them. -[1674.92 --> 1680.92] Father, as we continue to experience the warm weather, we ask that you watch over those who have difficulty with it. -[1680.92 --> 1686.92] And if there are ways that we can reach out and help, please make those available, Lord. -[1687.92 --> 1691.92] Father, we continue to pray for the people of Lytton. -[1692.92 --> 1698.92] And we ask your blessing on them as they mourn the loss of community and their homes. -[1699.92 --> 1707.92] And bless them as they go through a process of rebuilding and as they are away from community for probably quite some time to come. -[1707.92 --> 1710.92] Father, we ask for your blessing on the church around the world. -[1710.92 --> 1722.92] If that it may be faithful in its call to proclaim the gospel and make disciples of all nations. -[1723.92 --> 1729.92] Grant that we as individuals may also be faithful and obedient to that call to proclaim the gospel. -[1729.92 --> 1734.92] Father, we ask for your blessing on the ministries of this church. -[1734.92 --> 1738.92] We look forward to many of them starting up in the next few months. -[1739.92 --> 1744.92] And Lord, we know that there are some leaders and volunteers still needed for some of these ministries. -[1744.92 --> 1750.92] We pray that you would raise up people who have a heart for these ministries, Lord, and are willing to serve there. -[1751.92 --> 1759.92] And we ask that each one of these ministries may bring all of its participants into a closer and deeper relationship with you. -[1759.92 --> 1769.92] Father, we ask that you be with all those in all three levels of government and in Canada. -[1769.92 --> 1778.92] And we pray that they may serve well, that they may govern responsibly, and that they may know that their authority has been given by you. -[1778.92 --> 1792.92] Father, we ask that you bless Pastor Kevin with a rich measure of your spirit as he brings us your word. -[1792.92 --> 1796.92] And give us hearts which are eager to receive that word. -[1797.92 --> 1799.92] We ask this in Jesus' name. Amen. -[1808.92 --> 1810.92] Amen. -[1820.92 --> 1822.92] Good morning, everyone. -[1823.92 --> 1825.92] I'm going to just start with this right away. -[1825.92 --> 1826.92] There's no screen. -[1826.92 --> 1827.92] We've been told that. -[1827.92 --> 1830.92] So if you need a Bible, they're in the back. -[1830.92 --> 1835.92] So this is a really good time to get up, quickly go get a Bible in the back. -[1835.92 --> 1837.92] We're going to be looking at some of those verses. -[1837.92 --> 1839.92] If not, you've all got phones in your pocket. -[1839.92 --> 1840.92] Let's take advantage of that. -[1840.92 --> 1844.92] We'll be using whatever we can today to look into the word. -[1844.92 --> 1850.92] One of the last times I preached, I mentioned that I went golfing with Pastor Chris. -[1850.92 --> 1852.92] And that I defeated him quite soundly. -[1852.92 --> 1854.92] Now, perhaps you remember that. -[1854.92 --> 1856.92] I'm sure I did, for sure. -[1856.92 --> 1857.92] I remember that. -[1857.92 --> 1858.92] Perhaps you don't, though. -[1858.92 --> 1859.92] Because I was being pretty subtle. -[1859.92 --> 1862.92] I didn't really make it that big of a deal. -[1862.92 --> 1866.92] Well, Pastor Chris and I decided to go golfing again this week. -[1866.92 --> 1869.92] And for a second 18 holes, we finished a nice game. -[1869.92 --> 1874.92] Now, when it was all said and done, he really, really wanted me to make mention about how -[1874.92 --> 1877.92] last week's golf game went in my message this morning. -[1877.92 --> 1879.92] But we just don't have the time. -[1879.92 --> 1880.92] So we're just going to skip over. -[1880.92 --> 1881.92] Sorry, Chris. -[1881.92 --> 1883.92] If I had more time, we would talk about that. -[1883.92 --> 1884.92] But I don't. -[1884.92 --> 1885.92] The clock is ticking today. -[1885.92 --> 1890.92] Speaking of today, I was reminded this morning that it's July the 11th, 7-11. -[1890.92 --> 1892.92] So it's free Slurpee Day. -[1892.92 --> 1894.92] So you can grab one of those afterwards. -[1894.92 --> 1896.92] Had a little bit of time to sneak that one in anyways. -[1896.92 --> 1900.92] So if you're looking at something to do with the kids, grab your free Slurpee. -[1900.92 --> 1901.92] And it'll be good. -[1901.92 --> 1902.92] Slurpees for the win. -[1902.92 --> 1904.92] Anyways, enough rambling. -[1904.92 --> 1905.92] You've gotten your Bibles. -[1905.92 --> 1907.92] I killed enough time for that to happen. -[1907.92 --> 1910.92] To the question at hand this morning. -[1910.92 --> 1915.92] Now we're continuing our sermon series called Ask Anything. -[1915.92 --> 1921.92] In which we've given you the opportunity to send in your questions, which we will then -[1921.92 --> 1924.92] discuss and talk about on Sunday mornings here. -[1924.92 --> 1927.92] Today we're going to be looking at this question. -[1927.92 --> 1933.92] Does the name we call God matter for our salvation? -[1933.92 --> 1936.92] Now the original question was a little longer than that. -[1936.92 --> 1939.92] And so I'm going to paraphrase it for you a little bit right now. -[1939.92 --> 1941.92] Now the whole question was this. -[1941.92 --> 1947.92] Can calling on the name of Allah be the same as calling on the name of God? -[1947.92 --> 1948.92] What is in a name? -[1948.92 --> 1951.92] What is in the translation of a name? -[1951.92 --> 1955.92] Muslims, for example, use the language of the Quran and it is Arabic. -[1955.92 --> 1957.92] The Bible is translatable. -[1957.92 --> 1959.92] It's written in many different languages. -[1959.92 --> 1961.92] So what's in a name? -[1961.92 --> 1965.92] Does the name we call God matter for our salvation? -[1965.92 --> 1967.92] So that's the question today. -[1967.92 --> 1968.92] It's a great question. -[1968.92 --> 1971.92] And it's one that we're going to dig into a little bit. -[1971.92 --> 1975.92] Now, before we get to our text today, there is a little bit of nuance to this question -[1975.92 --> 1976.92] that needs to be highlighted. -[1976.92 --> 1982.92] If the question is simply asking, can a person who speaks Arabic call God Allah? -[1982.92 --> 1985.92] The answer is yes, of course. -[1985.92 --> 1990.92] Just like someone who speaks Spanish can call God Dios, or someone who speaks French can call -[1990.92 --> 1993.92] Yahweh God. -[1993.92 --> 1998.92] We are called to make disciples of all nations. -[1998.92 --> 2002.92] And so using all languages to do so is obviously a must. -[2002.92 --> 2008.92] Otherwise, we would not even be able to use the word God right now in our English day to day. -[2008.92 --> 2018.92] But, however, if the question turns from language or semantics to entity, then there is a very different answer here. -[2018.92 --> 2028.92] The difference between the true God revealed in the Bible and the God of Islam, for example, is not one of simple name, is not one of simple semantics. -[2028.92 --> 2037.92] If that is the grounds for this question, if it becomes more than what is a name and becomes what is the doctrine of God, we need to discuss. -[2037.92 --> 2043.92] So, this is also a question that does have a very definitive, biblical answer. -[2043.92 --> 2049.92] It's also a question that is extremely applicable to the world and the culture that we find ourselves in today. -[2049.92 --> 2054.92] So, we're going to read a text from John this morning that answers this question, I believe, quite emphatically. -[2054.92 --> 2058.92] And then we're going to look at why this question and answer matters so much for us today. -[2058.92 --> 2061.92] So, our text this morning is John 14. -[2061.92 --> 2065.92] You can turn in your Bibles to John 14 and we're going to read the first seven verses. -[2065.92 --> 2070.92] So, pull out those phones, flip open those Bibles, get one from the back once again. -[2070.92 --> 2075.92] If you didn't do it before and felt a little embarrassed, well, now you can do it by yourself and it won't be embarrassing at all. -[2075.92 --> 2077.92] Grab your Bibles, John 14, 1-7. -[2077.92 --> 2081.92] Jesus is speaking to his disciples and he says this. -[2081.92 --> 2084.92] Do not let your hearts be troubled. -[2084.92 --> 2088.92] You believe in God, believe also in me. -[2088.92 --> 2090.92] My Father's house has many rooms. -[2090.92 --> 2096.92] If that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? -[2096.92 --> 2105.92] And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me, that you also may be where I am. -[2105.92 --> 2109.92] You know the way to the place where I am going. -[2109.92 --> 2116.92] Thomas said to him, Lord, we don't know where you're going, so how can we know the way? -[2116.92 --> 2122.92] Jesus answered, I am the way and the truth and the life. -[2122.92 --> 2126.92] No one comes to the Father except through me. -[2126.92 --> 2130.92] If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. -[2130.92 --> 2137.92] From now on, you do know him and have seen him. -[2137.92 --> 2140.92] Word of the Lord. -[2140.92 --> 2145.92] But does the name we call God matter for our salvation? -[2145.92 --> 2148.92] Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. -[2148.92 --> 2153.92] No one goes to the Father except through him. -[2153.92 --> 2155.92] Jesus is clear here. -[2155.92 --> 2159.92] But we'll look at the confusion and how this affects our culture. -[2159.92 --> 2162.92] Now, you got a handout this morning that's got a few pictures on you. -[2162.92 --> 2165.92] If you are watching from home and don't have that, we apologize. -[2165.92 --> 2168.92] Send me an email and I will send you everything that was supposed to be on the screen today. -[2168.92 --> 2170.92] So, feel free to do that now. -[2170.92 --> 2180.92] But if you're here today, take a look at your handout now and take a look at the coexist sticker there. -[2180.92 --> 2183.92] Now, it's time for the interactive portion of our sermon. -[2183.92 --> 2187.92] So, I'm going to ask you a question and I want you to respond by raising your hands in the air. -[2187.92 --> 2192.92] How many of you have seen that or a version of that coexist sticker somewhere? -[2192.92 --> 2196.92] In a handout, on a car, a bumper sticker, people seen it around? -[2196.92 --> 2199.92] Okay, about half the people, maybe a few more are just unwilling to raise their hands. -[2199.92 --> 2202.92] But about half the people have seen that. -[2202.92 --> 2205.92] It's a fairly popular thing out there. -[2205.92 --> 2207.92] Keep your eyes open, you'll see it more and more. -[2207.92 --> 2212.92] Now, if all that sticker means, you'll notice that each letter is a different religion in the world. -[2212.92 --> 2215.92] If all that sticker means is that we should get along. -[2215.92 --> 2220.92] We should be nice and good neighbors to each other regardless of beliefs. -[2220.92 --> 2223.92] There's nothing wrong with that sticker then. -[2223.92 --> 2226.92] Jesus said, love your neighbor as yourself. -[2226.92 --> 2231.92] Coexisting seems to be as low as you can set that love bar. -[2231.92 --> 2234.92] So, I think that's okay. -[2234.92 --> 2238.92] If it's simply about loving your neighbor, I get it. -[2238.92 --> 2244.92] However, in our culture, there is more to this sticker. -[2244.92 --> 2247.92] There's some subtext to this sticker. -[2247.92 --> 2251.92] Coexisting often means conforming. -[2251.92 --> 2257.92] Coexisting has turned into this idea that all religions are basically the same. -[2257.92 --> 2262.92] So, as long as you're nice and you follow the golden rule and you're kind to the people around you, -[2262.92 --> 2267.92] and you don't claim that what you believe is the only truth, -[2267.92 --> 2273.92] well, then you will go to heaven or whatever version of happy eternity is to you. -[2273.92 --> 2277.92] Coexisting with one another now and forever. -[2277.92 --> 2284.92] Now, this way of thinking, this no matter who you call God, your eternity is determined by your own morality. -[2284.92 --> 2288.92] This way of thinking is called religious pluralism. -[2288.92 --> 2290.92] I'm going to say that a lot, so let's all say it together. -[2290.92 --> 2291.92] Religious pluralism. -[2291.92 --> 2293.92] Good. -[2293.92 --> 2294.92] We're all listening. -[2294.92 --> 2295.92] This is great. -[2295.92 --> 2296.92] This is a movement. -[2296.92 --> 2301.92] This religious pluralism movement is sort of sweeping the nation. -[2301.92 --> 2306.92] Now, atheists, agnostics, many progressive Christians and other westernized religions, -[2306.92 --> 2311.92] they believe that it's not only our job not to judge each other, -[2311.92 --> 2316.92] but because we are all trying to be as loving and kind and tolerant as each other, -[2316.92 --> 2318.92] we're going to end up in the same place. -[2318.92 --> 2320.92] So, again, take a look at your handout. -[2320.92 --> 2324.92] You'll see a beautiful picture of a mountain done on Microsoft Paint. -[2324.92 --> 2326.92] Way to go, Microsoft Paint. -[2326.92 --> 2327.92] It's a beautiful thing, isn't it? -[2327.92 --> 2334.92] A religious pluralist believes this, that if you are a decent human being and you are kind and compassionate to others, -[2334.92 --> 2340.92] no matter what God you believe in or you don't believe in, we are all heading up the same mountain. -[2340.92 --> 2342.92] We are just on different paths. -[2342.92 --> 2345.92] The trick is we actually can't see those other paths. -[2345.92 --> 2349.92] So everyone's going up the same mountain, believing what they believe on different paths. -[2351.92 --> 2352.92] And that's what that is. -[2352.92 --> 2354.92] Same mountain, different paths. -[2354.92 --> 2361.92] Therefore, a religious pluralist would say that it does us no good trying to convince people to switch paths, -[2361.92 --> 2364.92] because we're all heading in the same direction. -[2364.92 --> 2369.92] We should just accept the fact that we're all heading to the top of the mountain on different paths -[2369.92 --> 2375.92] and stop fighting with each other and stop disagreeing with each other and causing hate and divisiveness. -[2375.92 --> 2382.92] In fact, trying to convince people that your path is the only way up the mountain is arrogant, -[2382.92 --> 2386.92] it's condescending, and like I said, it causes that hate and divisiveness. -[2386.92 --> 2394.92] So to claim that your way is the only way is intolerant and hateful to other beliefs. -[2394.92 --> 2401.92] To be a religious pluralist is to be very open and very tolerant, very peaceful, very loving to all people. -[2401.92 --> 2405.92] And it acknowledges that we can, in fact, coexist together. -[2405.92 --> 2407.92] Now this is very attractive. -[2407.92 --> 2411.92] This is very on point to our Western ideologies. -[2411.92 --> 2415.92] It sounds like adjectives we should be. -[2415.92 --> 2418.92] Peaceful, loving, honest, open. -[2418.92 --> 2421.92] Perhaps you've even thought like this before. -[2421.92 --> 2425.92] I think it's actually very easy to believe this way. -[2425.92 --> 2431.92] Because we all know people in our lives, people who don't believe in Jesus, -[2431.92 --> 2436.92] but people who we love and people who are good and who are kind and generous -[2436.92 --> 2439.92] and they contribute positively to this world around us. -[2439.92 --> 2445.92] There are really, really good people out there who we all love dearly -[2445.92 --> 2450.92] and who we all want the best for, both now and for eternity. -[2450.92 --> 2453.92] And so this is attractive. -[2453.92 --> 2459.92] The problem is, this way of thinking, it just doesn't hold up. -[2459.92 --> 2462.92] It doesn't hold up to the Bible, and we're going to get to that. -[2462.92 --> 2465.92] It also just doesn't hold up to logic. -[2465.92 --> 2470.92] So the logical fallacy of religious pluralism is this. -[2470.92 --> 2475.92] A religious pluralist believes that all people worship basically the same God. -[2475.92 --> 2477.92] We just use different names. -[2477.92 --> 2479.92] And as long as we're good people, we don't try to convince others -[2479.92 --> 2482.92] that your way is better than the other way of thinking. -[2482.92 --> 2485.92] We will all coexist and live happily ever after. -[2485.92 --> 2490.92] To claim your way is the only way is arrogant and intolerant. -[2490.92 --> 2493.92] Now hypocrisy, of course, is by claiming this, -[2493.92 --> 2498.92] they are saying that their way of understanding religion is the only way to understand religion. -[2498.92 --> 2502.92] Their way to view God is the only way to view God. -[2502.92 --> 2507.92] A religious pluralist believes that the way they hold up religion is elevated, -[2507.92 --> 2511.92] the way that they hold up God is elevated above what other people think, -[2511.92 --> 2514.92] above what more traditional religions would say. -[2514.92 --> 2521.92] And they are making just as arrogant and, dare I say, intolerant a claim. -[2521.92 --> 2528.92] To hold up that mountain idea as the only true way. -[2529.92 --> 2532.92] They are doing the exact same thing they are preaching again. -[2532.92 --> 2535.92] Does that track? I hope that tracks. -[2535.92 --> 2541.92] Second of all, religious pluralism assumes that all religions are the same. -[2541.92 --> 2544.92] That we worship the same God but with a different name. -[2544.92 --> 2550.92] But the problem is, while people of different languages call God different names, -[2550.92 --> 2555.92] it isn't actually the name so much that matters when it comes to worshipping God. -[2555.92 --> 2564.92] It's God who matters. It's the being, the entity, the deity of God that we worship that matters. -[2564.92 --> 2568.92] And all religions are not worshipping that same God. -[2570.92 --> 2573.92] Let me give you an example. I'm borrowing this example from Mike Winger. -[2573.92 --> 2574.92] It's a good one. -[2574.92 --> 2576.92] So, hypothetically, just hear me out here. -[2576.92 --> 2579.92] Hypothetically, let's say you are very new to this church. -[2579.92 --> 2581.92] Maybe some of you are, maybe some of you aren't. -[2581.92 --> 2583.92] But let's just say you are very new to this church. -[2583.92 --> 2585.92] You've actually never really been here before. -[2585.92 --> 2589.92] But you know that I, like Kevin Lobert, that I exist and I'm the youth pastor here. -[2589.92 --> 2592.92] We've never met, but you know that I am here and I exist. -[2592.92 --> 2594.92] You also know that I am married to Nikki. -[2594.92 --> 2597.92] And that together we have three daughters together. -[2597.92 --> 2600.92] Again, we've never met, but you know this truth is out there. -[2600.92 --> 2602.92] You and I, we decide to connect. -[2602.92 --> 2606.92] And so we meet at a restaurant where I introduce you to Nikki. -[2606.92 --> 2610.92] We have a lovely meal together and you see Nikki and I, we really love you. -[2610.92 --> 2612.92] Nikki and I, we really love each other. -[2612.92 --> 2613.92] It's supernatural. -[2613.92 --> 2615.92] We share food. -[2615.92 --> 2617.92] You see us with our arms around each other. -[2617.92 --> 2618.92] We go for a walk afterwards. -[2618.92 --> 2620.92] We're holding hands. -[2620.92 --> 2625.92] Nikki and I are kind and loving and we're encouraging to each other all night. -[2625.92 --> 2626.92] The perfect couple. -[2626.92 --> 2627.92] It's so genuine. -[2627.92 --> 2628.92] It's so sincere. -[2628.92 --> 2630.92] It's maybe a little on the touchy side. -[2630.92 --> 2631.92] But still, it's sweet. -[2631.92 --> 2633.92] And you're like, ah, a couple. -[2633.92 --> 2635.92] At the end of the night, Nikki has to go home early. -[2635.92 --> 2642.92] I kiss her goodbye and you just sense how happy and sincere our love is. -[2642.92 --> 2647.92] The next day, you find out that the woman who joined us for dinner was not my wife Nikki, -[2647.92 --> 2652.92] but just another woman named Nikki. -[2652.92 --> 2656.92] Was that okay? -[2656.92 --> 2658.92] I sensed by the tension in the room that it was not. -[2658.92 --> 2659.92] Of course it's not okay. -[2659.92 --> 2660.92] That's adultery. -[2660.92 --> 2663.92] And I'm reminding you, this is a hypothetical situation. -[2663.92 --> 2664.92] This is not. -[2664.92 --> 2667.92] I can just see how upset we all are. -[2667.92 --> 2669.92] And that's the point. -[2669.92 --> 2671.92] That's the point. -[2671.92 --> 2678.92] The point is misdirected marital love and devotion to a woman that is not my wife is wrong. -[2678.92 --> 2683.92] And the same is true for God. -[2683.92 --> 2685.92] It's idolatry. -[2685.92 --> 2691.92] When it comes to our heartfelt worship and devotion, there is only one God. -[2691.92 --> 2696.92] And that is Yahweh, the God of the Bible, the sovereign God of all the cosmos. -[2696.92 --> 2702.92] You cannot worship anything else. -[2702.92 --> 2705.92] So yes, who you worship matters. -[2705.92 --> 2709.92] The name may change based on your language, but there is only one God. -[2709.92 --> 2717.92] And he is the God of the Bible, not the God of the Quran or the sutras or the God of capitalism or socialism or any other ism. -[2717.92 --> 2720.92] One God above all else. -[2720.92 --> 2724.92] It's not how good you are that matters. -[2724.92 --> 2727.92] Who you worship that matters. -[2727.92 --> 2734.92] Religious pluralism is rooted in the idea that morality is the foundation of all religion. -[2734.92 --> 2735.92] The foundation of all religions. -[2735.92 --> 2738.92] Be loving and kind and you'll be good to go. -[2738.92 --> 2741.92] But that's not true with Christianity. -[2741.92 --> 2748.92] Christianity is ultimately not about how moral we can be or how good we are. -[2748.92 --> 2751.92] It's about knowing how fallen we are. -[2751.92 --> 2754.92] About how deprived and sinful we are. -[2754.92 --> 2757.92] How no matter what we are always going to fall short. -[2757.92 --> 2761.92] Because we are sinful people. -[2761.92 --> 2764.92] We are people in need of saving. -[2764.92 --> 2769.92] Christianity is about understanding that Jesus saves us from that sin. -[2769.92 --> 2773.92] While obedience and good work, yeah, they follow that understanding. -[2773.92 --> 2777.92] Ultimately though, Christianity isn't a morality thing. -[2777.92 --> 2780.92] It's a salvation through Jesus thing. -[2780.92 --> 2782.92] We need Jesus. -[2782.92 --> 2787.92] He is the way, the truth, the life. -[2787.92 --> 2791.92] The Lord's Day 11 in the Heidelberg Catechism helps us with this. -[2791.92 --> 2795.92] It says, either Jesus is not the perfect savior, -[2795.92 --> 2800.92] which means you can be saved by something else, your morality, anything else. -[2800.92 --> 2803.92] Either Jesus is not the perfect savior, -[2803.92 --> 2806.92] or those who in faith accept him as their savior, -[2806.92 --> 2810.92] have in him all they need for their salvation. -[2810.92 --> 2813.92] You can't believe both. -[2813.92 --> 2816.92] It's one or the other. -[2816.92 --> 2819.92] Not all religions are the same. -[2819.92 --> 2824.92] Jesus said, I am the way, the truth, and the life. -[2824.92 --> 2827.92] No one comes to the Father except through me. -[2827.92 --> 2828.92] It's only him. -[2828.92 --> 2830.92] It's only Jesus. -[2830.92 --> 2832.92] There is no other way to God. -[2832.92 --> 2833.92] No other way to grace. -[2833.92 --> 2837.92] No other way to salvation than through Jesus. -[2837.92 --> 2842.92] This massive truth is what separates Christianity from other religions. -[2842.92 --> 2843.92] Again, take a look at your papers. -[2843.92 --> 2845.92] Flip it over on the other side. -[2845.92 --> 2846.92] It'll look like this. -[2846.92 --> 2847.92] Again, if you're at home, let me know. -[2847.92 --> 2848.92] I'll email it to you. -[2848.92 --> 2850.92] There's a little chart here. -[2850.92 --> 2853.92] It shows what other religions believe about Jesus -[2853.92 --> 2855.92] and what Christianity says about Jesus. -[2855.92 --> 2858.92] And you will notice something very quickly. -[2858.92 --> 2861.92] We do not believe the same thing about Jesus. -[2861.92 --> 2864.92] We are not the same. -[2864.92 --> 2868.92] It is Jesus who saves. -[2868.92 --> 2869.92] No one else. -[2869.92 --> 2871.92] It is Jesus who gives us new life. -[2871.92 --> 2872.92] No one else. -[2872.92 --> 2874.92] Jesus who offers us salvation. -[2874.92 --> 2876.92] No one else. -[2876.92 --> 2880.92] It is Jesus who is the Son of God sent by the Father to save us from our sins -[2880.92 --> 2884.92] and fulfill God's promises with his people. -[2884.92 --> 2888.92] Jesus lived the sinless life that we could not live. -[2888.92 --> 2892.92] And he died the death that we all deserved to die. -[2892.92 --> 2897.92] Jesus rose again from the grave three days later, defeating sin and death for us all. -[2897.92 --> 2901.92] Jesus offers us grace even though we do not deserve it. -[2901.92 --> 2909.92] Jesus gives hope to the hopeless, peace to the restless, strength to the weary, and life to us all. -[2909.92 --> 2912.92] Because we are all dead in our transgressions. -[2912.92 --> 2915.92] John 15 verse 5. -[2915.92 --> 2917.92] Jesus is the vine. -[2917.92 --> 2918.92] We are the branches. -[2918.92 --> 2924.92] If we remain in him and he does with us, we will bear much fruit. -[2924.92 --> 2928.92] But apart from him, we can do nothing. -[2928.92 --> 2931.92] Acts 4, 11 to 12. -[2931.92 --> 2933.92] Jesus is the stone the builders rejected. -[2933.92 --> 2936.92] The stone which has become the cornerstone. -[2936.92 --> 2940.92] Salvation is found in no one else. -[2940.92 --> 2947.92] For there is no name under the heaven given to mankind by which they can be saved. -[2948.92 --> 2950.92] 1 Timothy 2, 5 to 6. -[2950.92 --> 2952.92] For there is one God. -[2952.92 --> 2955.92] And there is one mediator between God and men. -[2955.92 --> 2961.92] The man, Jesus Christ, who gave himself up as a ransom for all. -[2962.92 --> 2965.92] But there is no other name that saves. -[2966.92 --> 2969.92] Mankind cannot worship any other God. -[2969.92 --> 2972.92] All religions are not the same. -[2973.92 --> 2976.92] They are not worshiping this Jesus. -[2976.92 --> 2980.92] They do not believe in this Jesus. -[2983.92 --> 2986.92] Anything else is just dinner with a different girl named Nikki. -[2989.92 --> 2991.92] Galatians 2, 20 to 21. -[2991.92 --> 2992.92] Paul says this. -[2992.92 --> 2993.92] He says, -[2993.92 --> 2998.92] For through the law I died to the law, so that I might live for God. -[2999.92 --> 3004.92] I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. -[3004.92 --> 3012.92] The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself up for me. -[3013.92 --> 3016.92] I do not set aside the grace of God. -[3017.92 --> 3023.92] For if righteousness could be gained through the law, then Christ died for nothing. -[3023.92 --> 3038.92] If righteousness could be gained through the law, if righteousness could be gained by being good moral people, then Christ died for nothing. -[3038.92 --> 3051.92] The salvation Christianity offers is not for good people, but for a people who understand and acknowledge that they are and never will be good enough themselves. -[3052.92 --> 3056.92] And they are desperately the need of a Savior. -[3057.92 --> 3058.92] Right. -[3058.92 --> 3062.92] I'll land the plane here in a moment. -[3062.92 --> 3064.92] Tim Keller wrote this. -[3065.92 --> 3066.92] He said, -[3066.92 --> 3073.92] No matter how good and well-ordained your life is, you must be born again through Jesus Christ. -[3073.92 --> 3085.92] And yet, no matter how chaotic your life has been, or how often and profoundly you have failed, you can be born again. -[3085.92 --> 3091.92] Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, the only Savior in the world. -[3092.92 --> 3094.92] He is the way, the truth, the life. -[3095.92 --> 3097.92] No one can receive salvation but through him. -[3098.92 --> 3104.92] He lived and died and rose again to make salvation a reality to all who believe. -[3104.92 --> 3107.92] And that truth sets you free. -[3108.92 --> 3113.92] Free from the bondage of sin and the constraints of sin. -[3113.92 --> 3114.92] Free from death. -[3114.92 --> 3116.92] You are born again. -[3116.92 --> 3120.92] Born to bring this news to all who need to hear it. -[3121.92 --> 3127.92] Because we should or because we can, but because if this truth is in your heart, you can't not share it. -[3127.92 --> 3128.92] Double negative, on purpose. -[3128.92 --> 3134.92] You can't not share this story of faithfulness with the world. -[3135.92 --> 3138.92] There are many people in the world who need to hear this news. -[3138.92 --> 3141.92] Many people that we love who need to hear this news. -[3141.92 --> 3149.92] And we should do so not arrogantly, not intolerantly, but gently and lovingly and persistently with them. -[3150.92 --> 3155.92] People need to know how you have been born again in Jesus. -[3155.92 --> 3157.92] So let's tell them. -[3158.92 --> 3164.92] Let's proudly share our stories and tell the people whom God has entrusted us with loving. -[3165.92 --> 3167.92] We know the truth. -[3168.92 --> 3171.92] That in Christ alone, our hope is found. -[3172.92 --> 3174.92] There is no other name that saves. -[3176.92 --> 3177.92] Amen. Please pray with me. -[3177.92 --> 3190.92] Father in heaven, there is no other name on heaven or on earth that saves. -[3191.92 --> 3194.92] Because Jesus Christ, you are the way, the truth, and the life. -[3194.92 --> 3199.92] Lord, may we truly understand that today. -[3199.92 --> 3208.92] May we know how sinful we are and how much grace you have for us. -[3209.92 --> 3216.92] May we know that we are free from that sin, free from death even, because of your sacrifice on the cross for us. -[3216.92 --> 3222.92] And Lord, may we take this news, this truth that we know, and may we share it. -[3223.92 --> 3225.92] May we share it with those we love. -[3225.92 --> 3226.92] May we share it with those we don't know. -[3227.92 --> 3229.92] May we share it with our neighbors. -[3230.92 --> 3234.92] Allow us to be bold with this, Lord. -[3235.92 --> 3238.92] May we share our stories and the story of your faithfulness to us. -[3238.92 --> 3243.92] Because this truth is too good to hold back. -[3243.92 --> 3245.92] We pray this in your name. Amen. -[3251.92 --> 3253.92] Please rise and join us in song. -[3253.92 --> 3263.92] Please rise and join us in song. -[3263.92 --> 3269.92] Let us sing. -[3269.92 --> 3274.92] Let us sing. -[3275.92 --> 3280.92] In Christ alone my hope is found. -[3280.92 --> 3285.92] He is my life, my strength, my song -[3286.50 --> 3291.88] This cornerstone, this solid ground -[3291.88 --> 3296.78] Firm through the fiercest drought and storm -[3296.78 --> 3302.04] What heights of love, what depths of peace -[3302.04 --> 3307.12] When cares of still and striving sea -[3307.12 --> 3312.12] My comforter, my all in all -[3312.88 --> 3318.36] Here in the love of Christ I stand -[3318.36 --> 3325.44] Christ alone, who took on flesh -[3325.44 --> 3330.24] Wholeness of God in helpless way -[3330.24 --> 3334.76] His gift of love and righteousness -[3334.76 --> 3340.76] Storned by the ones He came to save -[3340.76 --> 3346.14] Till on that cross as Jesus died -[3346.14 --> 3350.76] The wrath of God was satisfied -[3350.76 --> 3356.76] For every sin on Him was laid -[3356.76 --> 3362.76] Here in the death of Christ I live -[3362.76 --> 3370.14] In the ground His body lay -[3370.14 --> 3376.20] Light of the world by darkness slain -[3376.20 --> 3382.20] Then bursting forth in glorious day -[3382.20 --> 3387.20] Up from the grave He rose again -[3387.20 --> 3392.20] And as He stands in victory -[3392.20 --> 3397.54] His curse not lost its grip on me -[3397.54 --> 3403.20] For I am His and He is mine -[3403.20 --> 3408.20] Hark with the precious blood of Christ -[3408.20 --> 3416.20] No guilt in life, no fearing death -[3416.20 --> 3421.20] This is the power of Christ in me -[3421.20 --> 3426.20] From life's first cry to final breath -[3426.20 --> 3431.20] Jesus commands my destiny -[3431.20 --> 3437.20] No power of hell, no scheme of man -[3437.20 --> 3442.20] Can ever plough me from His hand -[3442.20 --> 3448.20] Till He returns or calls me hope -[3448.20 --> 3454.20] Here in the power of Christ I stand -[3454.20 --> 3456.20] No power of hell, no promise -[3456.20 --> 3461.20] No power of hell, no promise -[3461.20 --> 3466.20] Why don't you have a seat together -[3466.20 --> 3476.20] It's not so much about the name that you use -[3476.20 --> 3481.20] But the identity of the one you worship -[3481.20 --> 3485.20] The one whom we worship, our Lord Jesus Christ -[3485.20 --> 3489.20] Calls us now to this table -[3489.20 --> 3493.20] So if there's confusion about who Jesus is -[3493.20 --> 3494.20] Here is clarity -[3494.20 --> 3498.20] If there's confusion about what He has done for you -[3498.20 --> 3501.20] Here is clarity -[3501.20 --> 3507.20] If you don't yet begin to comprehend -[3507.20 --> 3512.20] The magnitude, the cross, and the empty tomb -[3512.20 --> 3515.20] Here is clarity -[3518.20 --> 3523.20] At His Last Supper, our Lord Jesus took bread -[3523.20 --> 3527.20] And when He had given thanks, He broke it -[3527.20 --> 3531.20] And said, this is my body -[3531.20 --> 3533.20] Which is for you -[3533.20 --> 3536.20] Do this in remembrance of me -[3536.20 --> 3541.20] And in the same way, after supper -[3541.20 --> 3543.20] He took the cup -[3543.20 --> 3548.20] And He said, this cup is the new covenant in my blood -[3549.20 --> 3553.20] Do this in remembrance of me -[3553.20 --> 3556.20] For whenever we eat this bread and drink this cup -[3556.20 --> 3558.20] And in the same way, we proclaim the Lord's death -[3558.20 --> 3561.20] And resurrection until He comes again -[3561.20 --> 3567.20] Therefore, we proclaim our faith -[3567.20 --> 3572.20] As signed and sealed in this sacrament -[3572.20 --> 3580.20] Christ has died, Christ is risen, and Christ will come again -[3580.20 --> 3585.20] Church family, the Lord has prepared His life -[3585.20 --> 3591.20] For all who love Him and trust in Him alone for their salvation -[3591.20 --> 3595.20] If you are truly sorry for your sins -[3595.20 --> 3599.20] If you sincerely believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as your Savior -[3599.20 --> 3602.20] And desire to live in obedience to Him -[3602.20 --> 3604.20] Whether you are here in the sanctuary -[3604.20 --> 3606.20] Or participating online at home -[3606.20 --> 3609.20] You are invited to come with gladness -[3609.20 --> 3613.20] To the table of our Lord -[3613.20 --> 3615.20] The gifts of God -[3615.20 --> 3617.20] For the people of God -[3617.20 --> 3620.20] I'd like to invite the serving elders forward -[3620.20 --> 3622.20] From their elderswerk -[3622.20 --> 3623.20] For theolinavy -[3623.20 --> 3638.20] Are we going to wait for the kids to come back? -[3638.20 --> 3643.48] Oh, this one's falling out. -[3645.28 --> 3647.38] Probably two, or you need one. -[3648.34 --> 3648.92] Take two. -[3648.92 --> 3678.90] Oh, this one's falling out. -[3678.92 --> 3708.90] Oh, this one's falling out. -[3708.92 --> 3710.92] Oh, this one's falling out. -[3714.92 --> 3724.92] The body of our Savior, Jesus Christ, torn for you. -[3724.92 --> 3729.92] Eat and remember. -[3729.92 --> 3742.92] The wounds that heal, the death that brings us life, make the prize to make us one. -[3742.92 --> 3751.26] So we share in this bread of life. -[3751.26 --> 3758.26] And we drink of this sacrifice. -[3758.26 --> 3760.26] The blood of the Lord. -[3760.26 --> 3762.26] The blood of the Lord. -[3762.26 --> 3764.26] The blood of the Lord. -[3764.26 --> 3766.26] The blood of the Lord. -[3766.26 --> 3768.26] The blood of the Lord. -[3768.26 --> 3770.26] The blood of the Lord. -[3770.26 --> 3771.26] The gene. -[3771.26 --> 3776.26] The blood of the Lord. -[3776.26 --> 3802.98] As one body, as one family, -[3802.98 --> 3806.16] we take Jesus in. -[3806.56 --> 3808.70] Take, eat, remember, and believe -[3808.70 --> 3810.30] that the body of our Lord Jesus Christ -[3810.30 --> 3811.98] was given for the complete forgiveness -[3812.56 --> 3814.84] of all our sins. -[3832.98 --> 3834.98] Amen. -[3834.98 --> 3835.98] Amen. -[3835.98 --> 3836.98] Amen. -[3836.98 --> 3863.18] The blood that cleanses every stain of sin -[3863.18 --> 3867.18] Shed for you -[3867.18 --> 3871.18] Drink and remember -[3871.18 --> 3877.18] Be drained as cup that all may enter in -[3877.18 --> 3884.18] To receive the life of God -[3884.18 --> 3892.18] So we share in this blood of life -[3892.18 --> 3898.18] And we drink of this heart -[3898.18 --> 3903.18] Of our lives and our soul -[3903.18 --> 3908.18] Of our bonds of grace -[3908.18 --> 3914.18] Around the table of the King -[3914.18 --> 3930.18] And so with thankfulness and faith -[3930.18 --> 3936.18] We rise to respond -[3936.18 --> 3946.18] And to remember our call to follow in the steps of Christ -[3946.18 --> 3954.18] As His body here on earth -[3954.18 --> 3960.18] As we share in His suffering -[3960.18 --> 3964.18] We proclaim -[3964.18 --> 3968.18] Christ will come on earth -[3968.18 --> 3970.18] And we'll join -[3970.18 --> 3976.18] With the peace of God -[3976.18 --> 3982.18] Around the table of the King -[3982.18 --> 3984.18] And we'll see you in the next one -[3984.18 --> 3986.18] We'll see you in the next one -[3986.18 --> 3988.18] We'll see you in the next one -[3988.18 --> 3990.18] We'll see you in the next one -[3990.18 --> 3992.18] We'll see you in the next one -[3992.18 --> 3994.18] We'll see you in the next one -[3994.18 --> 3996.18] We'll see you in the next one -[3996.18 --> 3998.18] We'll see you in the next one -[3998.18 --> 4000.18] We'll see you in the next one -[4000.18 --> 4014.18] As one family -[4014.18 --> 4015.18] As one family -[4015.18 --> 4017.18] We drink of Jesus -[4017.18 --> 4020.18] And are welcomed -[4020.18 --> 4021.18] To Him -[4021.18 --> 4022.18] Take -[4022.18 --> 4023.18] Drink -[4023.18 --> 4024.18] Remember and believe -[4024.18 --> 4025.18] That the precious blood -[4025.18 --> 4026.18] Of our Lord Jesus Christ -[4026.18 --> 4028.18] Was shed for the complete -[4028.18 --> 4029.18] And absolute forgiveness -[4029.18 --> 4031.18] Of your sins -[4044.18 --> 4055.18] I'm going to invite you to stand -[4055.18 --> 4057.18] We're going to respond in prayer -[4057.18 --> 4060.18] And we will receive God's blessing -[4060.18 --> 4062.18] From this table -[4062.18 --> 4063.18] As we go after which -[4063.18 --> 4065.18] We will sing our final song -[4065.18 --> 4067.18] Let's join our hearts -[4067.18 --> 4068.18] First in prayer -[4068.18 --> 4069.18] And then in the blessing -[4069.18 --> 4074.14] Loving God -[4074.14 --> 4075.24] We thank you -[4075.24 --> 4077.46] We thank you -[4077.46 --> 4078.62] That you have fed us -[4078.62 --> 4079.88] In this sacrament -[4079.88 --> 4082.56] That you have united us -[4082.56 --> 4083.54] With Christ -[4083.54 --> 4085.62] And given us a foretaste -[4085.62 --> 4086.94] Of the heavenly banquet -[4086.94 --> 4089.02] In your eternal kingdom -[4089.02 --> 4091.94] Send us out now -[4091.94 --> 4094.20] In the power of your spirit -[4094.20 --> 4096.64] To live and work -[4096.64 --> 4099.04] To your praise and glory -[4099.04 --> 4100.04] For the sake -[4100.04 --> 4101.52] Of Jesus Christ -[4101.52 --> 4102.58] Our Savior -[4102.58 --> 4104.14] In whose name -[4104.14 --> 4104.74] We pray -[4104.74 --> 4106.20] Amen -[4106.20 --> 4110.30] Go then -[4110.30 --> 4112.00] With the blessing -[4112.00 --> 4113.14] Of God -[4113.14 --> 4114.52] Having been met -[4114.52 --> 4115.16] By Him -[4115.16 --> 4116.62] In this time -[4116.62 --> 4117.22] And place -[4117.22 --> 4117.84] Of worship -[4117.84 --> 4119.12] And sent out -[4119.12 --> 4120.00] With Him -[4120.00 --> 4121.10] In the power -[4121.10 --> 4122.44] Of His name -[4122.44 --> 4125.80] May God -[4125.80 --> 4127.06] Go before you -[4127.06 --> 4128.24] To prepare a way -[4128.24 --> 4128.64] For you -[4128.64 --> 4129.76] May God -[4129.76 --> 4130.72] Go behind you -[4130.72 --> 4132.04] To guard you -[4132.04 --> 4133.46] May God -[4133.46 --> 4134.30] Go beneath you -[4134.30 --> 4135.40] To support you -[4135.40 --> 4136.12] And may God -[4136.12 --> 4137.16] Go beside you -[4137.16 --> 4138.22] To befriend you -[4138.22 --> 4139.04] Do not -[4139.04 --> 4140.62] Be afraid -[4140.62 --> 4141.90] Let the blessing -[4141.90 --> 4142.34] Of God -[4142.34 --> 4143.18] Come upon you today -[4143.18 --> 4143.80] Do not -[4143.80 --> 4145.10] Be afraid -[4145.10 --> 4145.92] But go -[4145.92 --> 4147.92] In peace -[4147.92 --> 4149.28] To love -[4149.28 --> 4150.52] And serve -[4150.52 --> 4151.40] The Lord -[4151.40 --> 4153.58] Amen -[4153.58 --> 4154.02] Vick Mone -[4154.02 --> 4154.54] Christ -[4154.54 --> 4154.88] With our throne -[4154.88 --> 4162.74] What is our hope -[4162.74 --> 4178.82] What is our hope in life and death? -[4178.82 --> 4183.74] Christ alone, Christ alone -[4183.74 --> 4188.52] What is our only confidence? -[4188.52 --> 4193.52] That our souls to Him belong -[4193.52 --> 4198.74] Who holds our days within His hand -[4198.74 --> 4203.36] What comes apart from His command -[4203.36 --> 4208.86] And what will keep us to the end -[4208.86 --> 4214.66] The love of Christ in which we stand -[4214.66 --> 4221.50] Oh, sing hallelujah -[4221.50 --> 4226.46] Our hope springs eternal -[4226.46 --> 4231.52] Oh, sing hallelujah -[4231.52 --> 4235.52] Now and ever we confess -[4235.52 --> 4240.66] Christ our hope in life and death -[4240.66 --> 4252.50] What truth can calm the troubled soul -[4252.50 --> 4257.32] God is good, God is good -[4257.32 --> 4262.50] Where is His grace and goodness known? -[4262.50 --> 4267.58] In our great Redeemer's blood -[4267.58 --> 4272.42] Who holds our faith when fears arise -[4272.42 --> 4277.28] Who stands above the stormy trial -[4277.28 --> 4282.66] Who sends the waves that bring us nigh -[4282.66 --> 4289.50] Unto the shore the rock of Christ -[4289.50 --> 4295.08] Oh, sing hallelujah -[4295.08 --> 4300.08] Our hope springs eternal -[4300.08 --> 4305.02] Oh, sing hallelujah -[4305.02 --> 4309.02] Now and ever we confess -[4309.02 --> 4314.02] Christ our hope in life and death -[4314.02 --> 4326.86] Unto the grave what will we sing -[4326.86 --> 4332.30] Christ He lives, Christ He lives -[4332.30 --> 4337.82] And what reward will heaven bring -[4337.82 --> 4338.82] Everlasting life we sing -[4338.82 --> 4343.22] Everlasting life we're filled -[4343.22 --> 4348.56] There we will rise to meet the Lord -[4348.56 --> 4353.62] Then sin and death will be destroyed -[4353.62 --> 4359.00] And we will be still endless shore -[4359.00 --> 4364.82] When Christ is ours forevermore -[4364.82 --> 4369.82] Oh, sing hallelujah -[4369.82 --> 4375.82] Our hope springs eternal -[4375.82 --> 4380.82] Oh, sing hallelujah -[4380.82 --> 4384.82] Now and ever we confess -[4384.82 --> 4389.82] Christ our hope in life and death -[4389.82 --> 4392.82] Now and ever we confess -[4392.82 --> 4410.82] Christ our hope in life and death -[4410.82 --> 4414.82] Now and ever we confess -[4414.82 --> 4419.82] Now and ever we confess -[4419.82 --> 4421.82] Christ our hope in life and death -[4421.82 --> 4425.82] Christ our hope in life and death -[4425.82 --> 4426.82] Amen. -[4455.82 --> 4456.82] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 16, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 16, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c86b90059977c497be10a7397a8bff41b6f2c82d..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 16, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,101 +0,0 @@ -• Worship service is led by repetitive singing of "Blessed be your name" -• Scripture reading from Revelation 1 -• Sermon or message begins, referencing God's greeting and call to worship -• Prayer or invocation mentions God's wisdom, calling people to full life and abundant living -• Praise and worship of Lord of all creation is expressed throughout the service -• Reference to a song or chant with lyrics mentioning God, heaven, and creation -• Discussion of the universe and its defense of God's majesty -• Invocation of God's presence, including a prayer for Lord Jesus' return -• Quotes from 1 John 1 regarding fellowship with God and walking in light vs. darkness -• Confession of sin and request for forgiveness and purification -• Confession of sin and need for comfort -• Expression of dependence on God's unconditional love -• Professing the Apostles' Creed as a statement of faith -• Assurance of God's presence in every hour of need -• Declaration of trust and commitment to serve God -• Reiteration of not being shaken or changed by circumstances -• Expression of joy, gratitude, and worship -• Discussion of the church's worship service and budget -• Emanuel Food Bank drive and its success -• Langley Food Bank update by Jim Calamance: - + Growing demand for services - + Increased number of Ukrainian families seeking help - + Expansion of Wednesday night hours -• Stories from the Langley Food Bank, including: - + A man named Jag who received help and was introduced to Jesus - + A retired pastor who encouraged a young woman to read through John -• A woman was sent by her Hindu god to the Langley Food Bank to talk to a pastor about her problem. -• The pastor believes this is a form of divine recommendation, with various gods pointing people towards Christianity. -• A client who started attending the food bank became a member of a church after being led to Jesus. -• The Langley Food Bank provides a bridge for people to discuss Christianity and receive spiritual guidance alongside physical necessities. -• A segment involving children's worship time and prayer is mentioned, but not further elaborated on. -• Church updates are shared, including news about Ellen White's health improving and Margaret Schoen preparing for surgery. -• The congregation expresses gratitude for the opportunity to meet in church and celebrate God's name. -• The passage from Hebrews 11 is discussed, highlighting faith as confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we cannot see. -• Ordinary people with flaws and sins can do great things due to their faith and God working through them. -• Prayer requests are made for: - + Those affected by drought and forest fires - + Farmers struggling with the difficult season - + The vulnerable, who need help during hot weather - + Creation care, to limit human impact on the world -• Specific prayers are offered for individuals within the congregation, including Klaus Tessemaker's health needs, Marquette's upcoming surgery, and aging parents. -• Comfort and strength are prayed for those mourning losses and facing challenges. -• The narrator describes a difficult basketball tryout experience where coaches made the students perform an endurance test by passing a ball down a line of people -• The narrator reflects on how this drill required perseverance and notes that none of the 70+ participants quit, despite being given the option to do so -• The narrator connects the story of Moses from the Bible to the theme of perseverance and mentions that they will be reading Hebrews 11:23-28 in their sermon series today -• The comfort and luxury that Moses could have had in Egypt -• Moses' decision to choose faith over wealth and position -• His fearlessness and perseverance in the face of adversity -• God's activity in Moses' life from infancy, even when Moses was not actively involved -• Moses' calling and preparation for his mission to lead Israel out of slavery -• The three stages of Moses' life: learning Egyptian culture, fleeing from Egypt after killing an Egyptian soldier, and receiving his calling as a leader -• Moses dealt with anger and violence, but persevered in his call from God -• Pharaoh's anger towards Moses was a significant challenge he faced -• The Israelites were frequently ungrateful and complained despite their miraculous deliverance -• Despite his own sin and frustration, Moses continued to lead the Israelites due to his faith in God -• Moses' perseverance was rooted in knowing and trusting God, even when it was difficult or uncomfortable. -• The importance of living a life that glorifies God and loves others above oneself -• The call to sacrifice oneself and live for others, as seen in Scripture (Moses, John the Baptist, Paul, and Jesus) -• Moses' example of choosing his calling over comfort and prioritizing people over self -• The contrast between individualism and the biblical focus on serving others, citing cultural examples such as self-help books and the emphasis on personal fulfillment -• The need for the church to recognize and reject the self-centered culture in favor of a life of service and sacrifice -• Moses' life and faith are used as examples of how to live for God's people rather than personal gain or comfort. -• The speaker is encouraged by the church community's faithfulness and service to others. -• Examples of community service include visiting the sick, celebrating milestones, and providing support during crises. -• The calling of the church is to sacrifice oneself and live for others, trading comfort for community. -• The cost of living for oneself vs living for Christ and others -• Moses' story as an example of perseverance and faith in God's plan -• The importance of having eyes fixed on Jesus, not worldly riches or pleasures -• Faith in God's salvation plan and taking refuge under the blood of the Lamb -• Perseverance in the face of challenges and difficulties for the sake of God's kingdom -• The blood of Christ and its significance in salvation -• The promise of salvation through Jesus' sacrifice -• Knowing God and Christ through His word and activity -• Faithful footsteps and persevering in faith -• Personal story of influence, a grandmother's perseverance during World War II -• The speaker's grandmother was a 12-year-old girl during WWII and helped people find safety in hiding -• Her grandmother moved to Canada in 1949 and got married that year to Peter, with whom she had four daughters -• Tragedy struck when Peter died suddenly, leaving the family without a father at a young age -• The grandmother remarried three years later to William, and they had another daughter together -• However, William also suffered a massive heart attack and died at a relatively young age -• The grandmother then moved back to Holland and married Matthijs, with whom she settled down -• She eventually had 19 grandchildren, including the speaker -• The speaker's grandfather was ill and died shortly after immigrating to Canada, and a few months later another cousin passed away. -• The speaker's grandma lost her oldest daughter Mary suddenly at a young age, then her husband five years later due to cancer complications. -• The speaker's grandma lived through World War II, immigration back and forth, single parenting, and moved multiple times throughout her life. -• She outlived three husbands, one child, three grandchildren, and almost all of her siblings, but remained steadfast in her faith throughout. -• The speaker shares that their grandma was a beacon of hope and perseverance for the family, pointing everyone to Jesus Christ as their rock and Savior. -• Persevering in faith despite challenges and cost -• Importance of having a faith hero or example -• Impact on families, church, and community if individuals persevere and fix their eyes on Jesus -• Hearing stories of perseverance and seeking to live out the calling of love in the world -• Striving to become more like God and leaving with hearts focused on Him -• Prayers and worship songs -• Testimony or prayer, possibly a personal reflection on faith -• Announcement for fellowship and prayer after service -• Reading from Numbers chapter 6 and blessing -• Final song and praise to Christ -• Tuesday's birthday is a concept, not a person -• Repetition of the word "Amen" occurs throughout the transcript -• Ability to speak human language is mentioned -• The word "Tuesday" is mentioned in context with its birthday \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 16, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 16, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 77a2b10196ec1996906386ede2e29a914d359c8f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 16, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1705 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 7.52] My heart will choose to say, well, blessed be your name. -[7.86 --> 11.52] God, you give and take away. -[12.16 --> 15.64] Oh, you give and take away. -[16.64 --> 24.94] My heart will choose to say, well, blessed be your name. -[24.94 --> 30.04] Blessed be the name of the Lord. -[30.12 --> 33.12] Blessed be your name. -[34.26 --> 50.80] Blessed be your name, I choose to say. -[50.80 --> 54.68] Blessed be the name of the Lord. -[54.94 --> 59.42] Blessed be your glory as I name. -[61.30 --> 63.54] Blessed be your name. -[66.28 --> 69.24] You give and take away. -[69.96 --> 73.34] God, you give and take away. -[74.62 --> 77.54] My heart will choose to say. -[78.74 --> 81.82] Lord, blessed be your name. -[81.82 --> 86.00] God, you give and take away. -[86.50 --> 90.04] You give and you take away. -[90.76 --> 94.30] But my heart will choose to say. -[95.28 --> 98.66] Lord, blessed be your name. -[99.18 --> 102.36] Oh, you give and take away. -[102.96 --> 106.22] You give and take away. -[106.22 --> 110.80] For you, God, my heart will choose to say. -[111.78 --> 114.80] Lord, blessed be your name. -[117.24 --> 121.02] Blessed be the name of the Lord. -[121.36 --> 123.54] Blessed be your name. -[125.46 --> 129.30] Blessed be the name of the Lord. -[129.72 --> 132.80] Blessed be the glorious name. -[132.80 --> 137.68] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[137.68 --> 140.06] Blessed be your name -[140.06 --> 145.98] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[145.98 --> 150.66] Blessed be your glorious name -[150.66 --> 153.92] Blessed be your name -[162.80 --> 192.78] Blessed be your name -[192.80 --> 222.78] Blessed be your name -[222.80 --> 252.78] Blessed be your name -[252.80 --> 258.80] Amen -[258.80 --> 262.80] Amen -[262.80 --> 265.80] Amen -[265.80 --> 267.80] Amen -[267.80 --> 272.80] Amen -[272.80 --> 278.80] Amen -[278.80 --> 280.80] Amen -[280.80 --> 290.80] Amen -[290.80 --> 294.80] Amen -[294.80 --> 296.80] Amen -[296.80 --> 297.80] Amen -[297.80 --> 307.80] Amen -[307.80 --> 309.80] Amen -[309.80 --> 311.80] Amen -[311.80 --> 313.80] Amen -[313.80 --> 314.80] Amen -[314.80 --> 315.80] Amen -[315.80 --> 317.80] Amen -[317.80 --> 323.80] Amen -[323.80 --> 327.80] Amen -[327.80 --> 329.80] Amen -[329.80 --> 331.80] Amen -[331.80 --> 333.80] Amen -[333.80 --> 335.80] Amen -[335.80 --> 337.80] Amen -[337.80 --> 339.80] Amen -[339.80 --> 349.80] Amen -[349.80 --> 351.80] Amen -[351.80 --> 353.80] Amen -[353.80 --> 357.80] Amen -[357.80 --> 359.80] Amen -[359.80 --> 360.80] Amen -[360.80 --> 362.80] Amen. -[390.80 --> 392.80] Amen. -[420.80 --> 422.80] Amen. -[450.80 --> 452.80] Amen. -[480.80 --> 482.80] Amen. -[510.80 --> 512.80] Amen. -[540.80 --> 542.80] Amen. -[570.80 --> 572.80] Amen. -[600.80 --> 602.80] Amen. -[630.80 --> 632.80] Amen. -[660.80 --> 662.80] Amen. -[690.80 --> 692.80] Amen. -[721.80 --> 722.58] Amen. -[722.58 --> 722.76] Amen. -[722.76 --> 723.58] Amen. -[723.58 --> 723.88] Amen. -[725.08 --> 726.52] Amen. -[727.32 --> 729.46] Amen. -[729.46 --> 730.58] Amen. -[731.78 --> 736.84] Amen. -[736.84 --> 737.86] Amen. -[737.86 --> 738.86] Amen. -[738.86 --> 740.08] Amen. -[740.36 --> 741.04] Amen. -[745.12 --> 750.26] Amen. -[750.80 --> 754.96] at the moment and receive God's greeting this morning. -[757.96 --> 761.28] God's greeting this morning comes from Revelation 1. -[761.94 --> 766.80] Grace and peace to you from him who is and who was and who is to come, -[767.10 --> 769.74] and from the seven spirits that are before his throne, -[770.22 --> 773.42] and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, -[773.88 --> 778.38] the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. -[778.38 --> 780.90] And all God's people said, amen. -[781.14 --> 785.30] Please take this time to greet one another and welcome each other here this morning. -[808.38 --> 820.50] In your wisdom, O God, you call us here to worship you. -[821.18 --> 824.44] We gather alive to the word of God. -[825.34 --> 828.12] You call us to be fully alive with your life abundant, -[828.50 --> 832.02] ready to listen and respond with heart, soul, strength, and mind. -[832.38 --> 835.52] We listen alive to the word of God. -[835.52 --> 839.16] You call us to be always watchful for your word of wisdom, -[839.82 --> 843.26] sometimes startling and unexpected, sometimes still and quiet, -[843.50 --> 845.34] but always dwelling among us. -[846.18 --> 848.80] We watch and wait for the word of God. -[849.62 --> 852.58] You are most worthy of our praise, Lord of all creation. -[853.54 --> 856.36] We respond to the word of God in worship. -[856.36 --> 877.12] Lord of all creation, -[877.12 --> 907.10] Lord of all creation, -[907.12 --> 937.10] Lord of all creation, -[937.10 --> 937.66] we worship and trustless. -[937.70 --> 946.84] ... -[946.84 --> 949.14] We wait for you. -[949.36 --> 951.22] Shonen spot, -[951.22 --> 952.32] If you, -[952.32 --> 954.98] ... -[956.12 --> 956.78] ... -[956.78 --> 968.54] When I stand in the darkness, I may call your name by night. -[968.54 --> 972.92] God is beyond our galaxy. -[974.84 --> 981.16] You are holy, holy. -[982.38 --> 986.06] The universe defends your majesty. -[986.06 --> 995.06] You are holy, holy. -[995.06 --> 998.94] Lord of heaven. -[1001.94 --> 1005.22] Lord of heaven. -[1010.06 --> 1015.26] Hallelujah, to the Lord of heaven. -[1016.86 --> 1021.90] Hallelujah, to the Lord of heaven. -[1021.90 --> 1028.20] Hallelujah, to the Lord of heaven. -[1028.20 --> 1032.78] Remember God's wonders beyond our galaxy. -[1032.78 --> 1040.78] You are holy, holy. -[1040.78 --> 1041.78] Lord of heaven. -[1041.78 --> 1042.78] You are holy. -[1042.78 --> 1043.78] Lord of heaven. -[1043.78 --> 1044.78] Lord of heaven. -[1044.78 --> 1045.78] You are holy. -[1045.78 --> 1046.78] You are holy. -[1046.78 --> 1050.78] You are holy. -[1050.78 --> 1051.78] Holy. -[1051.78 --> 1052.78] You are holy. -[1052.78 --> 1053.78] You are holy. -[1053.78 --> 1054.78] You are holy. -[1054.78 --> 1055.78] You are holy. -[1055.78 --> 1056.78] You are holy. -[1056.78 --> 1058.78] The universe defends your majesty. -[1058.78 --> 1059.78] You are holy. -[1059.78 --> 1062.52] You are holy. -[1062.78 --> 1063.44] You are holy. -[1063.44 --> 1065.66] Holy. -[1065.66 --> 1067.52] You are holy. -[1068.46 --> 1073.58] You are holy. -[1073.58 --> 1085.58] You are holy, holy, the universe that bears your majesty. -[1087.86 --> 1099.04] You are holy, holy, your love and grace. -[1099.04 --> 1106.86] Lord, come now, Lord of heaven and earth. -[1106.86 --> 1108.86] Amen. -[1136.86 --> 1142.72] Every planet has been fashioned by your hand. -[1143.38 --> 1150.86] Oh, creation holds together on the power of your voice. -[1151.86 --> 1155.20] Let the skies declare your glory. -[1155.86 --> 1158.86] Let the land and seas rejoice. -[1158.86 --> 1163.32] You are the owner of creation. -[1164.00 --> 1168.08] You are the Lord of every land. -[1168.48 --> 1173.86] Let the quiet and loving turn the cross for heaven. -[1176.50 --> 1179.86] If you love the days of angels, -[1181.00 --> 1184.84] need to seek and save the lost. -[1184.84 --> 1193.06] Can you exchange the joy of heaven for the anguish of the cross? -[1193.56 --> 1196.92] If the prayer you've heard of me, -[1197.56 --> 1200.84] with the word you still receive, -[1201.70 --> 1204.84] then I'll silently insist on, -[1205.54 --> 1208.84] let the empty day go free. -[1208.84 --> 1213.48] osity Veil and które h trib 당den up here. -[1214.06 --> 1215.56] Oh, creation holds together on the behaviours. -[1215.56 --> 1216.24] If the glory of every land and the demographic chart res Celestial. -[1216.46 --> 1218.32] You are the Lord of every land. -[1218.56 --> 1222.98] His Marvel düşe'n seine miej tweeting on the ground. -[1225.70 --> 1229.70] I shout to Rose Victoria, -[1230.26 --> 1234.34] wrestling kick-tricks on the grave, -[1234.34 --> 1238.26] And ascended into heaven -[1238.26 --> 1242.22] Leading back in your way -[1242.22 --> 1245.96] Now we stand before you ever -[1245.96 --> 1250.52] And sing before you're home -[1250.52 --> 1254.30] From each child and God and nation -[1254.30 --> 1258.72] You are the existence of -[1258.72 --> 1262.18] You're the author of creation -[1262.18 --> 1266.62] You're the Lord of every man -[1266.62 --> 1269.40] And your fire of love -[1269.40 --> 1272.46] Return across the land -[1272.46 --> 1278.24] You're the author of creation -[1278.24 --> 1282.18] You're the Lord of every man -[1282.72 --> 1285.56] And your fire of love -[1285.56 --> 1288.88] Return across the land -[1292.18 --> 1299.22] Our confession comes from 1 John 1 -[1299.22 --> 1300.64] It says, -[1300.82 --> 1303.92] This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you -[1303.92 --> 1307.38] God is light, in him there is no darkness at all -[1307.38 --> 1311.24] If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness -[1311.24 --> 1313.82] We lie and do not live out the truth -[1313.82 --> 1317.20] But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light -[1317.20 --> 1318.96] We have fellowship with one another -[1318.96 --> 1321.26] And the blood of Jesus, his son -[1321.26 --> 1323.26] Purifies us from all our sin -[1323.26 --> 1325.66] If we claim to be without sin -[1325.66 --> 1326.88] We deceive ourselves -[1326.88 --> 1328.64] And the truth is not in us -[1328.64 --> 1330.74] If we confess our sins -[1330.74 --> 1332.74] He is faithful and just -[1332.74 --> 1334.52] And will forgive us our sins -[1334.52 --> 1337.22] And purify us from all unrighteousness -[1337.22 --> 1339.30] In humility and faith -[1339.30 --> 1341.44] Let us confess our sin to God -[1341.44 --> 1343.00] In a time of silent prayer -[1343.00 --> 1372.98] In a time of silent prayer -[1373.00 --> 1391.58] God, convict our hearts to reveal our deepest sins -[1391.58 --> 1394.02] And the sins we think that are insignificant -[1394.02 --> 1396.06] Confessing them to you -[1396.06 --> 1399.84] And allowing your transforming power to work in our lives -[1399.84 --> 1403.62] As we confess them over and over and over again in discipline -[1403.62 --> 1405.70] As our walls break -[1405.70 --> 1407.94] And we realize the gravity of our sin -[1407.94 --> 1410.64] Come near and comfort us in our need -[1410.64 --> 1413.46] May your word take shape in our lives -[1413.46 --> 1415.60] And your spirit come alive in us -[1415.60 --> 1419.54] As we live into and out of your unconditional love -[1419.54 --> 1430.12] I hear thee every hour -[1430.12 --> 1435.34] Most gracious Lord -[1435.34 --> 1441.20] No tender voice like thine -[1441.20 --> 1445.34] Can peace accord -[1445.34 --> 1451.08] I need thee, O I need thee -[1451.08 --> 1456.48] Every hour I need thee -[1456.48 --> 1458.48] O I need thee, O I need thee -[1458.48 --> 1463.48] O I need thee, O I need thee -[1463.48 --> 1465.48] Come to thee -[1465.48 --> 1470.48] I need thee, O I need thee -[1470.48 --> 1474.48] I need thee every hour -[1474.48 --> 1476.48] Staying thou -[1476.48 --> 1481.48] Stay now, I need thee, O I need thee -[1481.48 --> 1483.48] Come to thee -[1483.48 --> 1484.64] The nations who's with power -[1484.64 --> 1489.22] When thou are done -[1489.22 --> 1492.50] I need thee, O I need thee -[1492.50 --> 1495.84] I need thee, O I need thee -[1495.84 --> 1495.90] Every hour I need thee -[1495.90 --> 1500.32] Every hour I need thee -[1500.32 --> 1504.10] O bless me now, my Savior -[1504.10 --> 1511.04] My Savior, I come to Thee. -[1513.60 --> 1518.44] I need Thee every hour. -[1518.94 --> 1523.30] Enjoy Your pain. -[1523.30 --> 1528.30] Come with me and abide. -[1529.30 --> 1533.64] For life is me. -[1534.10 --> 1539.86] I need Thee, O I need Thee. -[1540.40 --> 1544.64] Every hour I need Thee. -[1544.64 --> 1549.10] For mercy, now my Savior. -[1549.10 --> 1554.64] I come to Thee. -[1556.64 --> 1561.98] I need Thee every hour. -[1561.98 --> 1566.86] Most holy one. -[1567.40 --> 1572.04] For may we find in Thee. -[1572.52 --> 1575.98] The blessed Son. -[1575.98 --> 1581.74] I need Thee, O I need Thee. -[1581.74 --> 1585.44] I need Thee every hour. -[1585.44 --> 1586.52] I need Thee. -[1586.52 --> 1591.40] For mercy, now my Savior. -[1591.40 --> 1595.66] I come to Thee. -[1595.66 --> 1597.94] I need Thee. -[1597.94 --> 1598.94] I need Thee. -[1598.94 --> 1602.94] I need Thee. -[1602.94 --> 1607.80] Be assured that God is with you in your every hour of need. -[1607.80 --> 1612.68] and have confidence in who God is by professing the Apostles' Creed. -[1612.68 --> 1620.14] I believe in God the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. -[1620.14 --> 1630.28] I believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. -[1630.28 --> 1636.28] He suffered under Pontius Pilate, who was crucified, died, and was buried. -[1636.28 --> 1638.28] He descended to hell. -[1638.28 --> 1641.82] The third day He rose again from the dead. -[1641.82 --> 1647.82] He ascended to heaven and is seated at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. -[1647.82 --> 1651.82] From there He will come to judge the living and the dead. -[1651.82 --> 1665.82] I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. -[1665.82 --> 1666.82] Amen. -[1681.82 --> 1684.60] Amen. -[1684.60 --> 1688.82] I believe in Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, my Savior as heult objects. -[1688.82 --> 1690.82] Amen. -[1690.82 --> 1691.82] Amen. -[1691.82 --> 1693.76] Amen. -[1693.76 --> 1703.66] Thank you. -[1703.66 --> 1706.98] 어둠 by lights. -[1706.98 --> 1708.94] Amen. -[1708.94 --> 1710.08] Amen. -[1710.08 --> 1710.94] Amen. -[1710.94 --> 1721.94] I'm justified, I will serve my God, all my days. -[1721.94 --> 1723.94] When the nations are born, I will serve my God, all my days. -[1723.94 --> 1733.94] When the nations are born, I will serve my God, all my days. -[1733.94 --> 1744.44] When the nations are born, I will serve my God, all my days. -[1744.44 --> 1756.94] When the nations are born, I will serve my God, all my days. -[1756.94 --> 1762.10] I will not be you, I will not be changed. -[1776.60 --> 1783.10] I will declare my joy, some nations, and I will shout for joy. -[1783.10 --> 1790.30] In the congregation, I will let you fly, I will let you fly. -[1790.30 --> 1798.42] All my days, those who don't come home, are satisfied. -[1798.42 --> 1802.36] Those who trust in Him, are justified. -[1803.12 --> 1807.30] I will serve my God, I will save my God. -[1807.82 --> 1810.76] All my days. -[1813.10 --> 1817.72] When the nations will grow, -[1817.72 --> 1820.30] You will hear the voice. -[1820.30 --> 1826.36] These may rise and fall, -[1826.36 --> 1834.30] You will hear the song, they stop your voice. -[1834.30 --> 1836.84] You will hear the voice. -[1836.84 --> 1838.08] You will hear the voice. -[1838.08 --> 1844.14] To my soul, I will not be shaken. -[1844.14 --> 1850.52] I will not be shaken. -[1850.52 --> 1855.36] You will hear the voice. -[1855.36 --> 1855.98] To my soul, I will not be shaken. -[1855.98 --> 1858.90] To my soul, I will not beolinite, -[1858.90 --> 1861.90] I will not be 그� phases. -[1861.90 --> 1863.14] I will not be shaken. -[1863.14 --> 1864.12] I will not be shaken. -[1864.12 --> 1864.92] I will not be shaken. -[1864.92 --> 1866.30] I will not be shaken. -[1866.30 --> 1867.00] I will not be shaken. -[1867.00 --> 1867.38] I will not be shaken. -[1867.38 --> 1868.30] I will not be shaken. -[1868.30 --> 1869.20] I will not be shaken. -[1869.20 --> 1870.24] I will not be shaken. -[1871.38 --> 1872.06] You will not be 정ative. -[1872.06 --> 1872.64] I will not be shaken. -[1872.64 --> 1873.58] I will not be shaken forever. -[1873.60 --> 1874.46] I will not be taken. -[1874.76 --> 1876.10] The law that emergesgreat faithfully doth with the áats. -[1876.10 --> 1876.56] In the context of the time I eat with the雨 of the Spring hinaus. -[1876.56 --> 1877.24] I will not be entertained. -[1877.24 --> 1879.06] It's just a Absolute day for MELSw over. -[1879.06 --> 1879.56] notes the young woman in the past. -[1879.56 --> 1894.08] Good morning. We continue our worship with the giving of our gifts for the budget, which covers the administration and ministries of the church, and the special offering for today, which is the Langley Food Bank. -[1894.08 --> 1904.68] As you can see from the many grocery bags in the front of the sanctuary, the Lord has blessed this second annual Emanuel Food Bank drive. -[1905.46 --> 1916.76] And on behalf of the deacons, I want to thank everyone who volunteered, the members who distributed the empty bags into the neighborhoods here in Murrayville, -[1916.76 --> 1930.12] and the neighbors who filled and returned the grocery bags, and then everyone who was involved in the pancake breakfast and the children's fair. -[1931.80 --> 1943.20] And above all, I also want to thank Langley Savon Foods, Langley Safeway, and Aldegrove Fresco for donating the grocery bags. -[1943.70 --> 1945.80] But above all, I want to thank God. -[1946.76 --> 1951.92] Now, I want to welcome the director of the Langley Food Bank, Jim Calamance, to the mic. -[1952.84 --> 1956.50] Pastor Jim will give us an update on what's happening. -[1958.66 --> 1959.40] Thank you, Emanuel. -[1960.54 --> 1963.62] Thank you once again for allowing me to come back and to talk to you again. -[1963.66 --> 1968.64] I think it was late fall last year that I came, and this is amazing. -[1968.82 --> 1969.56] Thank you so much. -[1970.20 --> 1975.42] Our warehouses are getting empty, and so this is really an amazing shot in the arm for us. -[1975.42 --> 1980.54] We really appreciate all that you have done, and the Lord is very good. -[1981.34 --> 1982.62] Thank you for your support. -[1983.76 --> 1988.30] The Langley Food Bank is growing, and there are so many people coming. -[1988.90 --> 1990.74] We have people coming from all nations. -[1990.74 --> 1997.88] We have Afghanistan, Mexico, Nigeria, India, Iraq, Iran. -[1998.48 --> 2005.32] We have over 100 Ukrainian families coming now, and God is allowing us to be able to meet their needs. -[2005.32 --> 2010.90] In May, we had 47 brand-new families show up. -[2011.56 --> 2014.94] In June, 52 brand-new families. -[2015.74 --> 2025.50] In the month of June, we served 4,800, 4,800 over that amount of people that came, individuals, -[2025.50 --> 2028.84] from just the Langley Food Bank alone and Aldergrove. -[2029.88 --> 2031.20] We've been getting seniors now. -[2031.66 --> 2035.80] They just can't make it any longer, and so they're coming saying, you know, can I apply? -[2036.92 --> 2042.18] And once again, you have to be a resident, and you have to have a certain financial backing to come, or lack of it. -[2042.70 --> 2048.62] Wednesday nights, we have opened up from 515 to 615, and we have people coming there. -[2048.62 --> 2057.72] 80% of those people are Ukrainian families who have gotten jobs, and it's silly for them to leave their job during the day and to come to us. -[2057.74 --> 2060.32] So we've opened up Wednesday nights as well. -[2062.68 --> 2069.38] Let me tell you three quick stories just to tell you what this kind of food impact does for us. -[2070.98 --> 2075.50] The first story is a man named Jag, a South Asian gentleman. -[2075.50 --> 2076.76] He comes up to the table. -[2076.76 --> 2082.42] I happen to be out there, and he says, I'm recently homeless, mid-30s. -[2082.78 --> 2084.16] My wife kicked me out of the house. -[2085.48 --> 2086.76] I said, I'm sorry to hear that. -[2087.30 --> 2089.46] I said, you know, how can I help you? -[2089.52 --> 2090.78] He says, well, first I need some food. -[2090.86 --> 2092.20] And I said, sure, let me get you some food. -[2092.62 --> 2096.78] So as I come out again, I said, you know, I can give you more help. -[2097.74 --> 2099.72] And there's a person who can help you. -[2099.76 --> 2100.40] His name is Jesus. -[2101.40 --> 2103.40] And I said, would you mind if I talk to you about him? -[2103.40 --> 2104.76] And we could pray together. -[2104.76 --> 2106.94] And so I shared with him the gospel. -[2107.60 --> 2110.12] And we prayed to put my hand on his shoulder. -[2110.86 --> 2116.20] And when we opened our eyes, he was crying, tears pouring down his cheeks. -[2116.84 --> 2120.36] He says, you're the first person that's helped me in days. -[2121.02 --> 2125.02] He says, my family, even my own wife, will not help me. -[2125.02 --> 2128.44] I said, well, that's because we're here because of Jesus. -[2129.42 --> 2133.94] And would you think about coming to my church next Sunday? -[2134.28 --> 2135.62] And he says, where is it? -[2136.00 --> 2138.92] And I waited for him, but he did not show. -[2140.08 --> 2145.46] So pray for Jack that he will find Jesus as a savior. -[2145.46 --> 2152.22] The second story is we have a retired pastor who on Wednesdays, he kind of works the crowd. -[2153.04 --> 2155.30] And so he's talking to people. -[2155.52 --> 2157.86] And right now he's giving them a challenge to read through John. -[2158.24 --> 2160.72] And one particular young lady he talked to was from India. -[2161.16 --> 2162.92] And she had just come here for university. -[2163.60 --> 2166.76] And so she had been coming for three, four weeks. -[2166.82 --> 2167.70] He got to know her. -[2167.70 --> 2170.84] And she, but she was going through some struggles. -[2171.60 --> 2176.80] So she showed up again and she said, Pastor Dell, can I talk to you? -[2177.26 --> 2178.24] And he says, sure. -[2178.62 --> 2184.92] So as they were talking in the corner of the parking lot, he, she told him that that morning -[2184.92 --> 2187.10] she was in worship to her God. -[2187.32 --> 2188.04] She's Hindu. -[2188.94 --> 2195.98] And her God told her to go to the Langley Food Bank and to talk to that pastor. -[2195.98 --> 2199.18] Because he will have wisdom for your problem. -[2200.50 --> 2201.76] So not bad. -[2202.56 --> 2207.04] Other G gods are recommending our gospel and Jesus Christ. -[2207.92 --> 2210.98] And then the last thing, and as you know, I used to be a pastor. -[2211.10 --> 2216.28] And what brings great joy to my heart is when our clients realize that they need the gospel -[2216.28 --> 2217.56] and they start attending churches. -[2218.34 --> 2222.90] And right now we can count probably three or four of our clients that have started attending -[2222.90 --> 2226.96] a church because they've come to the Langley Food Bank for food. -[2227.94 --> 2233.76] One particular client, I won't say their name, but they started coming, got to know one of our volunteers. -[2234.32 --> 2239.84] And that volunteer said to them, hey, would you come to church with my wife and I next Sunday? -[2240.84 --> 2241.72] And she came. -[2241.72 --> 2244.78] And she started going to that church. -[2245.30 --> 2247.82] And after a while, she was led to Jesus. -[2249.08 --> 2252.98] And after a while, she became a member of that church. -[2254.86 --> 2259.94] So God bless you for all you're doing in support of the Langley Food Bank. -[2260.52 --> 2263.34] Because together, we're spreading the gospel. -[2263.96 --> 2265.62] We're giving out way more than food. -[2265.62 --> 2274.14] But that food there allows us a bridge to be able to talk about the living bread, Jesus Christ. -[2275.22 --> 2277.82] So Lord, may the Lord bless you and keep you. -[2277.96 --> 2282.48] May he shine his face upon you and be gracious to you and give you peace. -[2283.10 --> 2283.58] God bless you. -[2283.58 --> 2313.56] Thank you. -[2313.58 --> 2343.56] Thank you. -[2343.58 --> 2345.58] Thank you. -[2373.58 --> 2375.58] Thank you. -[2375.58 --> 2376.58] Thank you. -[2376.58 --> 2378.58] Thank you. -[2378.58 --> 2379.58] Thank you. -[2403.58 --> 2405.58] Thank you. -[2405.58 --> 2406.58] Thank you. -[2406.58 --> 2407.58] Thank you. -[2433.58 --> 2434.58] Thank you. -[2434.58 --> 2435.14] Thank you. -[2435.58 --> 2436.24] Thank you. -[2436.58 --> 2436.78] Thank you. -[2436.78 --> 2439.60] The place is there. -[2440.74 --> 2441.90] The place is there. -[2447.00 --> 2454.50] I would love to invite all of the kids for preschool age, -[2454.58 --> 2457.42] going into kindergarten, maybe just in kindergarten recently. -[2457.56 --> 2459.14] Why don't you come up to the front right now? -[2459.58 --> 2460.88] I'm going to pray with you. -[2460.96 --> 2461.66] Yeah, you come right up. -[2462.36 --> 2463.52] I'm going to pray with you, -[2463.66 --> 2466.04] and then we're going to go to children's worship time together, okay? -[2466.04 --> 2466.18] Okay. -[2468.90 --> 2469.78] Good job. -[2474.76 --> 2475.56] All right. -[2477.02 --> 2479.52] Can you guys pray with me before we go to children's worship time? -[2479.70 --> 2479.86] Yeah? -[2480.36 --> 2481.68] All right, let's fold our hands, okay? -[2481.76 --> 2482.28] Close our eyes. -[2482.70 --> 2484.56] Dear God, thank you that we could come to church today. -[2484.90 --> 2487.00] Thank you that we could go to children's worship time, -[2487.06 --> 2487.88] learn more about you. -[2488.16 --> 2490.98] We pray for these kids who are going to learn some stories -[2490.98 --> 2493.06] and have some fun in the back and be with the grown-ups too. -[2493.12 --> 2494.58] We're going to do the same thing in here. -[2494.58 --> 2497.66] We pray that we will all draw closer to you today in your name. -[2498.02 --> 2498.34] Amen. -[2499.06 --> 2499.50] All right. -[2499.60 --> 2501.00] Let's do the blessing, okay? -[2501.08 --> 2501.84] Can we do that together? -[2502.20 --> 2503.44] So church is going to stand up. -[2503.82 --> 2505.52] We're going to say there's only six of us. -[2505.58 --> 2506.46] We have to be really loud. -[2506.56 --> 2507.14] Can we do that? -[2507.48 --> 2508.72] We're going to say the Lord be with you. -[2508.76 --> 2509.20] Are you ready? -[2509.86 --> 2510.22] All right. -[2510.96 --> 2513.32] The Lord be with you. -[2513.72 --> 2515.22] And also with you. -[2515.30 --> 2515.84] Great job. -[2515.84 --> 2517.56] Okay, you guys can go to children's worship time. -[2517.56 --> 2518.12] Thank you. -[2518.12 --> 2546.66] Good morning. -[2546.66 --> 2549.18] My name is Dave. I'm one of the elders in our church. -[2549.98 --> 2554.42] Before we go to our church family prayer, a couple of updates from our bulletin. -[2555.94 --> 2561.10] The bulletin does point out that Ellen White, who we've been praying for for a while, is going to Langley Hospital. -[2561.42 --> 2563.78] The further update is that she is going home. -[2564.28 --> 2571.12] She is going to need some home care, so those health concerns are still ongoing, but that is a very important development. -[2571.12 --> 2578.76] And the bulletin also points out that Margaret Schoen was waiting for surgery sometime this month or next. -[2579.16 --> 2585.02] I've just heard an update that she now gets to go in next Wednesday, so that is very good news. -[2585.02 --> 2589.10] Let us all turn to our God and our church family prayer. -[2592.38 --> 2594.82] Father, this is the day that you have made. -[2595.20 --> 2597.44] We rejoice and we are glad in it. -[2598.04 --> 2602.32] We thank you for the opportunity that we have to meet in your house, to meet in your church, -[2602.46 --> 2607.62] that we get to join with Christians everywhere, with the church universal, to celebrate your name. -[2607.62 --> 2612.74] We thank you for the message that we could hear today as it comes from Hebrews 11. -[2613.38 --> 2620.48] We hear those encouraging words that faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we cannot see. -[2621.44 --> 2628.38] When we read Hebrews 11, we hear about many ordinary, flawed, sinful people who did great things -[2628.38 --> 2631.96] because of their faith in you and because of you working in them. -[2631.96 --> 2636.54] We pray for ourselves that we, too, can be agents of your kingdom -[2636.54 --> 2642.18] and that we can do good things for others because of our faith in you and you working in us. -[2643.04 --> 2644.52] Father, we thank you for summertime. -[2645.04 --> 2650.08] It is a chance for so many of us to rest, to travel, to spend time with family. -[2650.56 --> 2654.90] And when we travel, a lot of us spend time outdoors to enjoy your creation. -[2655.44 --> 2659.34] We look at all that you have made and we know that it is very good. -[2659.34 --> 2663.70] While we enjoy the nice weather when we can, -[2664.04 --> 2672.22] we also recognize the difficulties that it creates for so many people with drought, with forest fires. -[2672.74 --> 2677.76] We think about those who are farmers and grow food for others -[2677.76 --> 2680.78] and that this looks like a very difficult season for them. -[2681.30 --> 2687.40] We recognize that when great heat comes, it is very difficult for the vulnerable. -[2687.40 --> 2694.02] Father, we pray for all of us that we can endure the difficult weather when it happens -[2694.02 --> 2702.04] and that this will be an opportunity to lean on each other and to provide support for each other. -[2702.70 --> 2705.34] It also reminds us about our need for creation care, -[2705.68 --> 2710.08] that we need to work to limit our impact on the world that you have made. -[2710.08 --> 2717.12] Father, we continue to pray for needs of our congregation and people connected with it. -[2717.72 --> 2720.58] We thank you that Ellen White has a chance to go home. -[2721.90 --> 2724.88] She still is going to need some kind of home care, -[2725.34 --> 2727.70] but we do thank you for that development, -[2727.84 --> 2730.80] that she could spend time at home and not time in hospital. -[2730.80 --> 2738.44] We pray for Klaus Tessemaker, who is in hospital for his health needs. -[2738.78 --> 2743.12] We pray that you will be with him as he endures that difficulty. -[2743.72 --> 2748.10] We thank you for the good news that Marquette gets to have surgery next Wednesday. -[2748.56 --> 2752.60] We pray for her doctors, nurses, all the caregivers who will be taking care of her -[2752.60 --> 2756.22] and that this will be a successful surgery for her. -[2756.92 --> 2763.16] We pray for those of us who are taking care of aging parents or who worry about their health. -[2763.50 --> 2767.36] We thank you for the work that they have done for us over the years -[2767.36 --> 2771.46] and the love that they have shown for their families. -[2772.00 --> 2775.04] We pray for members of our church who are mourning, -[2775.36 --> 2780.08] whether it is a loss that has happened recently or a loss that happened some time ago. -[2780.08 --> 2782.66] We pray that they will feel your comfort and your strength. -[2783.18 --> 2787.52] We pray for those who are broken and hurting for whatever challenges that they face. -[2787.90 --> 2792.30] We pray for those who are facing anxiety or other issues of mental health, -[2792.46 --> 2795.52] that they may feel your comfort, that they may feel your healing. -[2796.52 --> 2799.16] Father, we pray for this church. -[2799.82 --> 2802.24] We thank you for the ministries that we could have here. -[2802.62 --> 2804.56] Many of them are on hiatus for the summertime, -[2804.56 --> 2809.86] but we do thank you for opportunities to build community, -[2810.08 --> 2813.84] and learn more about you. -[2814.40 --> 2817.38] We pray for Kevin, who is going to be leading us in our message today, -[2817.56 --> 2819.96] that we will learn more about Moses, -[2820.50 --> 2824.22] one of many great heroes of the faith. -[2825.32 --> 2829.32] And, Father, to you who is able to keep us from falling, -[2829.66 --> 2834.12] be glory, majesty, power, and authority through Jesus Christ our Lord -[2834.12 --> 2836.84] before all ages now and forevermore. -[2837.62 --> 2837.88] Amen. -[2837.88 --> 2837.98] Amen. -[2840.08 --> 2868.32] Good morning, everyone. -[2868.32 --> 2871.76] As I sit out here and I look at all your faces, -[2871.92 --> 2874.38] I see Klaus Tesemacher sitting right there as well. -[2874.48 --> 2876.36] So we prayed for him because he was in the hospital. -[2876.84 --> 2879.36] When we prepare for these prayers and for these services, -[2879.36 --> 2881.82] we hear news and then we see results of that. -[2881.84 --> 2883.10] So we're grateful to see you here, Klaus. -[2883.56 --> 2884.20] Doing well. -[2884.26 --> 2884.56] Thank you. -[2885.70 --> 2887.14] When I was in grade 12, -[2887.52 --> 2891.10] I remember trying out for the senior boys basketball team. -[2891.66 --> 2893.86] I had played basketball all throughout school, -[2893.96 --> 2896.62] so I wasn't really worried about this tryout so much. -[2896.62 --> 2898.12] I thought it was going to be a bit of a cakewalk. -[2898.54 --> 2899.66] But boy, was I wrong. -[2900.46 --> 2903.04] The coaches decided to do not just the tryouts -[2903.04 --> 2905.06] for the senior boys basketball team that day, -[2905.12 --> 2907.70] but also for the senior girls and the junior boys. -[2908.06 --> 2910.72] So there was three teams that they were looking at, -[2910.78 --> 2912.96] and there was over 70 students in that gym -[2912.96 --> 2915.06] vying to be on those three teams. -[2915.06 --> 2917.54] Now, there were some passing drills and shooting drills -[2917.54 --> 2918.46] and sort of the norms. -[2918.60 --> 2919.78] There was lots of line running, -[2919.96 --> 2922.14] and all six coaches had their clipboards out -[2922.14 --> 2922.86] and taking notes. -[2923.20 --> 2926.50] It was all very standard until the last drill. -[2927.70 --> 2929.14] Now, because more kids showed up -[2929.14 --> 2930.22] than they originally thought, -[2930.56 --> 2933.40] the coaches decided to separate the wheat from the chaff. -[2933.66 --> 2935.08] That's what they said before the drill. -[2935.20 --> 2937.20] So that was discouraging right at the beginning. -[2938.06 --> 2942.68] They lined up all 70 of us students along the wall, -[2943.02 --> 2944.70] and they made us do a wall sit. -[2944.76 --> 2946.86] Now, a wall sit's when you put your back against the wall, -[2946.92 --> 2949.88] and then you sit at a 90-degree angle at your knees, -[2950.38 --> 2952.34] and it just really burns the quads. -[2952.84 --> 2954.60] And so they had all seven of us sitting there, -[2954.62 --> 2956.66] and then each of the six coaches took a basketball, -[2957.20 --> 2958.76] and they said, we're going to go down the line, -[2958.76 --> 2960.74] and we're going to go all the way down and all the way back, -[2960.80 --> 2962.34] and all six of us are going to pass the ball -[2962.34 --> 2963.46] to all 70 of you, -[2963.82 --> 2964.88] and we're going to go all the way down -[2964.88 --> 2966.18] and all the way back. -[2966.50 --> 2969.84] And if anyone slips or falls or stands up -[2969.84 --> 2972.16] or misses the ball or can't pass it back, -[2972.56 --> 2973.72] we're starting over again. -[2975.10 --> 2979.34] That was the longest 43 minutes and 12 seconds of my life. -[2980.80 --> 2982.80] We finally accomplished a task, -[2982.84 --> 2984.26] and I remember standing up in victory -[2984.26 --> 2985.58] and then crumpling to the ground -[2985.58 --> 2986.88] because my legs stopped working, -[2986.88 --> 2988.42] and it took me a good five minutes -[2988.42 --> 2990.04] for the blood to flow back into the legs -[2990.04 --> 2991.22] and get rolling again. -[2991.28 --> 2992.30] But what was really great -[2992.30 --> 2994.78] was that this drill called for some perseverance. -[2994.88 --> 2996.96] None of the 70-plus people quit. -[2997.78 --> 2998.98] They had said, you can quit. -[2999.08 --> 3000.80] You can stand up and leave any time, -[3000.92 --> 3002.54] but if you do, there's a possibility -[3002.54 --> 3003.92] that you might not make the team, -[3003.98 --> 3004.70] but nobody did. -[3005.36 --> 3007.84] And we leaned against that wall as 70 students -[3007.84 --> 3009.36] for as long as it took Scooby-Doo -[3009.36 --> 3011.28] to solve not one but two mysteries. -[3012.16 --> 3013.54] So good old high school. -[3014.22 --> 3015.76] Now we're going to continue our sermon series -[3015.76 --> 3017.04] on heroes of faith today -[3017.04 --> 3019.10] and look at another Old Testament hero, -[3019.22 --> 3020.94] someone who had to persevere -[3020.94 --> 3024.44] through so much more than a basketball tryout. -[3024.44 --> 3027.60] Now this guy is a pretty popular Bible character, -[3027.80 --> 3030.12] and he's a guy whose story takes up -[3030.12 --> 3031.98] four whole books of the Bible. -[3032.34 --> 3033.90] We're going to look at Moses today. -[3034.52 --> 3036.86] But instead of reading the entirety of Exodus 2 -[3036.86 --> 3038.02] to Deuteronomy 34, -[3038.46 --> 3041.54] we're going to read the Hebrews passage -[3041.54 --> 3043.80] on what makes Moses one of the heroes of faith. -[3043.84 --> 3045.10] So if you have your Bibles with us, -[3045.18 --> 3046.26] and with you, and I hope you do, -[3046.52 --> 3048.36] please turn with me now to Hebrews 11, -[3048.94 --> 3051.40] and we're going to read verses 23 to 28. -[3051.40 --> 3053.28] Now please keep those Bibles close to you -[3053.28 --> 3054.04] because as always, -[3054.12 --> 3055.96] we're going to be going back to that passage -[3055.96 --> 3057.10] throughout the morning. -[3057.88 --> 3060.62] So Hebrews 11, 23 to 28 says this, -[3061.30 --> 3064.24] By faith, Moses' parents hid him -[3064.24 --> 3065.98] for three months after he was born -[3065.98 --> 3068.78] because they saw he was no ordinary child, -[3069.08 --> 3071.34] and they were not afraid of the king's edict. -[3071.84 --> 3074.06] By faith, Moses, when he had grown up, -[3074.40 --> 3077.06] refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh's daughter. -[3077.06 --> 3080.90] He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God -[3080.90 --> 3084.44] rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. -[3085.32 --> 3087.56] He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ -[3087.56 --> 3090.62] as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt -[3090.62 --> 3092.90] because he was looking ahead to his reward. -[3093.96 --> 3095.16] By faith, he left Egypt, -[3095.28 --> 3096.80] not fearing the king's anger. -[3097.48 --> 3100.34] He persevered because he saw him who is invisible. -[3101.52 --> 3103.08] By faith, he kept the Passover -[3103.08 --> 3104.96] and the application of blood -[3104.96 --> 3106.86] so that the destroyer of the firstborn -[3106.86 --> 3110.18] would not touch the firstborn of Israel. -[3110.82 --> 3112.10] The word of the Lord. -[3114.44 --> 3116.30] So this Hebrews text today -[3116.30 --> 3118.62] gives us some reason why Moses was considered -[3118.62 --> 3119.54] a hero of faith. -[3119.66 --> 3121.82] Moses chose to be mistreated, -[3122.42 --> 3124.62] rather enjoy the comforts in his life. -[3124.70 --> 3127.36] He chose to align himself with God -[3127.36 --> 3128.70] and be disgraced -[3128.70 --> 3130.86] rather than enjoy the treasures, -[3131.06 --> 3132.32] all of the treasures of Egypt. -[3132.68 --> 3133.44] He was fearless. -[3133.44 --> 3136.46] Even while in the crosshairs of Pharaoh, -[3136.70 --> 3138.90] and he kept faith in God, -[3139.10 --> 3141.20] even if what God was asking him to do -[3141.20 --> 3142.04] seemed impossible. -[3143.18 --> 3145.24] In short, my prayer is, -[3145.34 --> 3147.08] as we leave here today this morning, -[3147.60 --> 3149.98] we hear that Moses was a hero of faith -[3149.98 --> 3152.56] because no matter the calling or the cost, -[3153.42 --> 3155.52] Moses fixed his eyes on Christ -[3155.52 --> 3157.38] and persevered in his faith. -[3157.38 --> 3159.62] Or to use Moses as an example -[3159.62 --> 3161.18] for what we are to do, -[3162.44 --> 3165.14] no matter the calling or the cost, -[3165.36 --> 3168.66] we are to fix our eyes on Christ -[3168.66 --> 3170.56] and persevere in our faith. -[3171.84 --> 3173.44] Now Moses' story backs this up, -[3173.50 --> 3175.40] so let's take some snapshots of his life. -[3176.02 --> 3177.98] In Exodus 2, verses 1 to 10, -[3178.06 --> 3179.06] while he was an infant, -[3179.50 --> 3180.30] Moses' mother, -[3180.38 --> 3181.92] he puts Moses in a basket -[3181.92 --> 3183.00] into the Nile River -[3183.00 --> 3184.80] and saves him from certain death -[3184.80 --> 3186.40] because Pharaoh was killing -[3186.40 --> 3188.54] all of the sons in Egypt. -[3188.62 --> 3190.86] Not only did Moses get saved in that moment, -[3191.00 --> 3192.44] but he ends up getting adopted -[3192.44 --> 3193.64] by Pharaoh's daughter -[3193.64 --> 3196.10] and grows up in the palaces of Egypt. -[3196.98 --> 3198.16] Now Moses was an infant, -[3198.28 --> 3200.94] so how can you credit this to his faith, -[3201.06 --> 3201.74] you might ask? -[3202.94 --> 3205.04] Well, just because Moses wasn't even active -[3205.04 --> 3206.78] in his own life at this point -[3206.78 --> 3209.24] doesn't mean that God wasn't active in it. -[3209.24 --> 3212.14] See, Moses' faith, it grew -[3212.14 --> 3214.00] because of what God's activity -[3214.00 --> 3215.46] in his life was. -[3215.96 --> 3218.06] Whether we contemplate this or not, -[3218.12 --> 3219.70] if we have eyes to see -[3219.70 --> 3222.22] what God is doing in our lives, -[3222.46 --> 3224.72] even without our own involvement, -[3225.04 --> 3227.44] we can come to grow in our faith. -[3228.38 --> 3230.06] So Moses' calling had started early -[3230.06 --> 3232.18] as God sort of set him apart from infancy -[3232.18 --> 3233.54] to live out this calling. -[3234.16 --> 3236.54] And so for the first third of Moses' life, -[3236.60 --> 3237.76] his first 40 years, -[3237.76 --> 3240.00] Moses learned of the Egyptian culture -[3240.00 --> 3241.82] in an Egyptian palace, -[3242.12 --> 3243.92] just a bedroom or eight away -[3243.92 --> 3246.22] from where Pharaoh laid his head down at night. -[3247.48 --> 3249.90] The next recorded event in Moses' story -[3249.90 --> 3251.92] is Exodus 2, 11 to 25. -[3252.42 --> 3253.90] Moses sees one of his people -[3253.90 --> 3255.64] getting beaten by an Egyptian soldier, -[3256.10 --> 3257.72] and so he goes and kills the aggressor -[3257.72 --> 3258.78] with his own two hands. -[3259.18 --> 3262.00] That move, though, costs Moses dearly -[3262.00 --> 3264.78] because he had to flee from the palace, -[3265.72 --> 3267.60] from his life of comfort, -[3267.76 --> 3268.96] from his life of wealth. -[3270.50 --> 3272.26] God would use this sin, though, -[3272.32 --> 3274.06] to prepare Moses for his calling, -[3274.22 --> 3276.80] and Moses spends the second third of his life, -[3277.08 --> 3278.62] his second 40 years, -[3279.14 --> 3280.62] shepherding in the desert, -[3281.00 --> 3282.46] learning about the wilderness -[3282.46 --> 3285.10] and how to care for wandering sheep. -[3286.10 --> 3288.54] And then comes Moses' third third of life, -[3289.26 --> 3290.48] his final 40 years, -[3290.54 --> 3292.10] where God's calling on his life -[3292.10 --> 3293.34] becomes even more pronounced. -[3293.34 --> 3296.84] God meets Moses in a burning bush in Exodus 3 -[3296.84 --> 3300.40] and calls Moses to lead his people out of Egypt, -[3300.58 --> 3301.82] out of the land of slavery, -[3301.82 --> 3303.40] and into the promised land. -[3303.54 --> 3305.14] And the rest of Moses' story -[3305.14 --> 3307.38] is told over four books of the Bible, -[3307.98 --> 3309.98] Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy. -[3310.88 --> 3312.14] Now, people know this story. -[3312.88 --> 3314.36] Christians and non-Christians alike -[3314.36 --> 3316.32] have heard the story of Moses and the Exodus. -[3316.60 --> 3318.56] It's been made into countless children's books. -[3318.56 --> 3320.68] Artists have been painting this story -[3320.68 --> 3323.02] and aspects of this story for centuries. -[3323.44 --> 3325.70] Even Hollywood has made movies about it. -[3326.42 --> 3328.54] In fact, according to Wikipedia, -[3328.74 --> 3330.94] there are 15 Hollywood movies -[3330.94 --> 3332.72] about the story of Moses, -[3332.82 --> 3334.74] many of them quite terrible. -[3336.16 --> 3339.68] But what isn't always shown in these movies -[3339.68 --> 3343.86] is the cost of God's call on Moses' life. -[3345.54 --> 3348.12] Moses dealt with violence and anger. -[3348.12 --> 3352.00] Remember, God used 10 plagues on the Egyptians, -[3352.24 --> 3353.34] significant plagues, -[3353.46 --> 3355.18] ranging from infestation of frogs -[3355.18 --> 3356.60] to locusts to boils, -[3357.06 --> 3358.74] and the ninth plague -[3358.74 --> 3361.32] covering the whole land in darkness for days. -[3362.18 --> 3363.40] After that ninth plague, -[3363.58 --> 3365.32] Pharaoh is livid at Moses, -[3365.56 --> 3367.20] and he says in Exodus 10, 28, -[3367.48 --> 3368.44] get out of my sight, -[3368.72 --> 3370.98] make sure you do not appear before me again. -[3371.24 --> 3373.02] The day you see my face, -[3373.24 --> 3374.20] you will die. -[3374.20 --> 3378.64] But Moses persevered in his calling, -[3379.26 --> 3380.72] even against Pharaoh's anger. -[3381.82 --> 3382.96] And then a few chapters later, -[3383.04 --> 3383.78] Exodus 14, -[3384.12 --> 3385.46] Pharaoh changes his mind, -[3385.78 --> 3387.26] and God sends the final plague, -[3387.34 --> 3387.90] the tenth one, -[3387.96 --> 3390.30] where all of the firstborn sons in Egypt die. -[3391.42 --> 3393.50] The Israelites are told to leave once and for all, -[3393.58 --> 3394.00] but again, -[3394.10 --> 3395.64] the anger of Pharaoh returns, -[3395.90 --> 3397.74] and he sets out to kill not just Moses, -[3397.88 --> 3398.98] but all of God's people. -[3398.98 --> 3403.10] But Moses persevered in his calling -[3403.10 --> 3405.32] without fear of Pharaoh. -[3406.94 --> 3408.00] With God's interceding, -[3408.08 --> 3410.06] the Israelites cross the Sea of Reeds safely, -[3410.24 --> 3412.10] but then very quickly start whining -[3412.10 --> 3413.66] about their situation. -[3414.50 --> 3414.98] Now remember, -[3415.10 --> 3416.44] there was conservatively -[3416.44 --> 3419.44] about 2.5 million Israelites, -[3420.26 --> 3422.98] many of them now whining and complaining -[3422.98 --> 3425.46] about their situation and their new digs. -[3426.22 --> 3427.34] I just had youth camp -[3427.34 --> 3428.84] with 35 youth and leaders. -[3429.44 --> 3431.72] I heard them whining about their digs all weekend, -[3432.02 --> 3433.60] and that was enough for me. -[3433.84 --> 3437.36] I can't imagine 2.5 million people whining -[3437.36 --> 3438.78] for 40 years -[3438.78 --> 3440.34] about where he had taken them. -[3441.22 --> 3443.38] But Moses persevered in his calling -[3443.38 --> 3446.22] and continued to lead an ungrateful people. -[3446.30 --> 3447.48] Now, side note actually, -[3447.82 --> 3449.60] the youth camp on the screen behind me, -[3449.64 --> 3451.14] the youth and leaders were actually quite delightful. -[3451.28 --> 3452.08] They weren't bad at all. -[3452.50 --> 3453.96] They were absolute champions. -[3453.96 --> 3457.48] They did end up sleeping in a super sketch chalet -[3457.48 --> 3459.54] in the bush at Mount Seymour, -[3459.68 --> 3461.34] and we knew we shared that chalet -[3461.34 --> 3462.66] with a lot of furry little rodents -[3462.66 --> 3464.00] because we saw the poop on our beds -[3464.00 --> 3464.76] when we showed up there. -[3464.98 --> 3466.38] But I needed an example, -[3466.52 --> 3467.22] and I thought that would do. -[3467.30 --> 3467.86] So there you go. -[3469.64 --> 3471.68] Even in his sin, though, -[3472.02 --> 3473.08] Moses persevered. -[3473.82 --> 3475.42] Now, we heard about the murder he committed -[3475.42 --> 3476.38] back in Exodus 2, -[3476.46 --> 3477.88] but actually in Numbers 20, -[3477.94 --> 3479.42] we read about another moment -[3479.42 --> 3481.52] where in a bout of frustration, -[3481.84 --> 3483.56] Moses takes credit for a miracle -[3483.56 --> 3484.64] that God performed -[3484.64 --> 3486.54] rather than giving God the glory, -[3486.74 --> 3487.94] and his punishment for that -[3487.94 --> 3489.76] was to not enter the promised land -[3489.76 --> 3490.92] with God's people. -[3492.42 --> 3495.36] But Moses persevered even in his sin -[3495.36 --> 3498.40] because he had his eyes fixed on God, -[3498.82 --> 3501.08] and he knew what his reward would be. -[3501.64 --> 3503.42] See, that's the thread of Moses' story -[3503.42 --> 3504.36] over and over again. -[3504.36 --> 3506.46] Because of God's calling on his life, -[3506.76 --> 3508.16] no matter the cost to him, -[3508.16 --> 3510.82] Moses persevered in his faith. -[3511.44 --> 3512.88] Verse 27 of our text, -[3513.18 --> 3515.02] By faith Moses left Egypt. -[3515.32 --> 3517.88] He persevered because he saw him -[3517.88 --> 3518.98] who is invisible. -[3521.04 --> 3523.54] Knowing God was key. -[3524.40 --> 3527.46] Knowing God allowed him to persevere -[3527.46 --> 3529.12] and choose a life of faithfulness -[3529.12 --> 3531.02] over a life of comfort. -[3531.24 --> 3532.24] No matter the cost, -[3532.56 --> 3534.98] Moses knew God and persevered in his faith. -[3534.98 --> 3536.36] That is Moses' story. -[3536.48 --> 3537.90] That is Moses' testimony. -[3537.90 --> 3539.74] His example for us today. -[3539.88 --> 3541.10] So what does that mean for us? -[3541.52 --> 3542.78] What is our calling? -[3543.38 --> 3545.14] What is the cost to us? -[3546.00 --> 3546.88] We'll look at those two things, -[3546.94 --> 3547.92] our calling and our cost. -[3548.00 --> 3548.54] First, our calling. -[3549.70 --> 3550.74] As Moses did, -[3551.32 --> 3553.22] our calling is to live our lives -[3553.22 --> 3554.48] to glorify God -[3554.48 --> 3556.62] and to love others above ourselves. -[3557.56 --> 3559.38] This is found throughout Scripture. -[3559.82 --> 3562.32] John the Baptist says in John 3, verse 30, -[3562.32 --> 3563.96] that he, Jesus, -[3564.38 --> 3565.80] must become greater -[3565.80 --> 3567.72] and I become less, -[3567.80 --> 3568.62] must become less. -[3568.86 --> 3570.30] Paul gives a similar calling -[3570.30 --> 3573.86] in Philippians 2, verses 3 to 4. -[3574.22 --> 3575.74] Do nothing out of selfish ambition -[3575.74 --> 3576.56] or vain conceit. -[3576.94 --> 3577.86] Rather, in humility, -[3578.36 --> 3580.78] value others above yourselves. -[3580.78 --> 3582.88] not looking to your own interests, -[3582.88 --> 3584.34] but each of you -[3584.34 --> 3586.06] to the interest of others. -[3587.10 --> 3588.62] And then Jesus himself, of course, -[3588.78 --> 3589.76] time and time again, -[3589.84 --> 3590.84] but in Matthew 22, -[3590.94 --> 3592.88] he quotes the Old Testament passages -[3592.88 --> 3595.04] of Deuteronomy 6 and Leviticus 9. -[3595.14 --> 3595.52] He says, -[3596.28 --> 3597.20] Love the Lord your God -[3597.20 --> 3598.12] with all your heart -[3598.12 --> 3599.18] and with all your soul -[3599.18 --> 3600.30] and with all your mind -[3600.30 --> 3602.92] and love your neighbor as yourself. -[3602.92 --> 3607.42] We're called to sacrifice ourselves -[3607.42 --> 3608.54] and live for others. -[3608.64 --> 3610.02] Some of you who have been believers -[3610.02 --> 3611.02] for a long time, -[3611.10 --> 3611.88] you've been hearing this -[3611.88 --> 3612.94] over and over again, -[3613.02 --> 3614.24] time and time again, -[3614.40 --> 3616.60] but that is what we are called to do. -[3616.80 --> 3619.56] That is our calling here on this earth. -[3620.00 --> 3622.08] That is what Moses was called to do. -[3622.92 --> 3623.84] That's how he lived. -[3624.12 --> 3625.44] That's what the book of Hebrews -[3625.44 --> 3626.52] credits him for. -[3626.78 --> 3628.88] He persevered in his faith. -[3630.26 --> 3632.34] He persevered in his calling. -[3632.92 --> 3635.44] Because of God's people. -[3636.28 --> 3637.70] To lead God's people. -[3637.82 --> 3638.88] To serve God's people. -[3639.10 --> 3639.92] No matter the cost. -[3641.64 --> 3643.24] Moses chose mistreatment -[3643.24 --> 3643.98] rather than enjoy -[3643.98 --> 3645.34] the fleeting pleasures of this world. -[3645.44 --> 3647.68] That was verse 25 of our text. -[3647.78 --> 3648.98] He regarded disgrace -[3648.98 --> 3650.18] for the sake of Christ -[3650.18 --> 3651.38] as greater value -[3651.38 --> 3652.58] than the treasures of Egypt. -[3652.58 --> 3653.66] Verse 26. -[3654.00 --> 3657.58] He chose calling over comfort. -[3658.28 --> 3660.36] He chose people over self. -[3661.62 --> 3662.88] And that's our calling. -[3662.92 --> 3668.00] I don't think it's a secret -[3668.00 --> 3669.04] that our world pushes -[3669.04 --> 3670.78] individualism very hard. -[3671.28 --> 3673.28] That the rags to riches narrative -[3673.28 --> 3674.44] is celebrated. -[3674.66 --> 3676.60] It's strived for in our culture. -[3677.02 --> 3678.60] Dream big, they say. -[3678.70 --> 3679.64] Find your thing. -[3680.22 --> 3681.28] Anything is possible -[3681.28 --> 3682.70] if you believe hard enough. -[3683.02 --> 3684.06] If you work hard enough. -[3684.14 --> 3685.72] If you try hard enough. -[3686.22 --> 3687.18] Believe in yourself -[3687.18 --> 3688.50] and you can take on the world, -[3688.50 --> 3689.00] we're told. -[3690.06 --> 3690.90] Self-help books -[3690.90 --> 3693.32] are still the most popular books -[3693.32 --> 3694.66] off the shelves in bookstores. -[3695.52 --> 3696.88] Exercising self-care. -[3697.30 --> 3698.74] Attaining self-employment. -[3699.00 --> 3701.36] Becoming a self-made person. -[3702.36 --> 3703.36] All of those are goals -[3703.36 --> 3704.70] for most in our society. -[3705.16 --> 3706.38] Find your true self. -[3706.72 --> 3707.74] Express yourself. -[3708.26 --> 3709.66] Always be taking selfies. -[3710.06 --> 3712.44] Show the world the true you. -[3713.40 --> 3715.90] Self, self, self. -[3716.96 --> 3718.96] You do you, we say. -[3719.86 --> 3721.08] Be who you are. -[3722.72 --> 3723.86] We tell people. -[3724.38 --> 3725.68] Church, we have to see -[3725.68 --> 3727.10] that Moses' story -[3727.10 --> 3728.46] is the antithesis of this. -[3728.96 --> 3730.06] We have to see -[3730.06 --> 3731.74] that Moses' story -[3731.74 --> 3732.50] is the opposite -[3732.50 --> 3734.12] of the focus on yourself, -[3734.42 --> 3735.66] little g gospel -[3735.66 --> 3737.06] of the culture that we live in. -[3737.06 --> 3739.22] Moses didn't go -[3739.22 --> 3740.22] from rags to riches. -[3741.22 --> 3743.00] He went from riches to rags. -[3743.94 --> 3744.82] Moses didn't believe -[3744.82 --> 3745.54] in his abilities. -[3745.70 --> 3747.62] He questioned them very hard -[3747.62 --> 3749.34] in the burning bush story -[3749.34 --> 3750.16] in Exodus 3. -[3750.60 --> 3753.20] But he believed in God -[3753.20 --> 3755.14] and God's promises for him. -[3756.12 --> 3757.96] Moses didn't place his identity -[3757.96 --> 3759.00] in what he did -[3759.00 --> 3762.16] or look deep within himself -[3762.16 --> 3763.34] to find who he was. -[3764.16 --> 3765.42] He discovered who he was -[3765.42 --> 3767.12] by his relationship with God -[3767.12 --> 3768.58] and living that out -[3768.58 --> 3769.28] in the world. -[3770.36 --> 3771.60] Moses didn't live his life -[3771.60 --> 3772.48] for his own gain -[3772.48 --> 3773.28] or his own comfort. -[3773.52 --> 3774.44] In fact, he lost -[3774.44 --> 3775.64] all of his comfort -[3775.64 --> 3776.70] in his calling -[3776.70 --> 3777.42] to lead the people -[3777.42 --> 3777.94] out of Egypt. -[3779.26 --> 3780.96] No, Moses lived his life -[3780.96 --> 3782.24] for God's people, -[3783.10 --> 3783.60] leading them, -[3783.72 --> 3784.14] serving them, -[3784.18 --> 3785.10] no matter the cost. -[3789.24 --> 3790.14] The church here, -[3790.26 --> 3792.66] I am so encouraged -[3792.66 --> 3794.66] by you all so often -[3794.66 --> 3796.64] because I see this calling -[3796.64 --> 3797.38] being lived out -[3797.38 --> 3798.12] in this community -[3798.12 --> 3799.50] all of the time. -[3800.44 --> 3801.68] Examples of faithfulness -[3801.68 --> 3803.48] to God's calling -[3803.48 --> 3804.12] being practiced -[3804.12 --> 3804.98] by so many of you -[3804.98 --> 3805.52] in this community. -[3805.70 --> 3807.10] When people are in the hospital, -[3807.24 --> 3807.86] you visit them. -[3808.26 --> 3809.48] When engagements happen -[3809.48 --> 3810.54] or babies are born, -[3810.62 --> 3811.66] you celebrate together. -[3811.90 --> 3813.32] When pandemics rage on, -[3813.66 --> 3815.26] you meet at doorsteps -[3815.26 --> 3816.86] and drop gifts off at home. -[3817.00 --> 3818.40] When crises happen, -[3818.48 --> 3819.50] you enter into them -[3819.50 --> 3820.02] with people. -[3820.26 --> 3821.06] You sit with them. -[3821.14 --> 3821.88] You pray with them. -[3821.94 --> 3822.88] You bring meals to them. -[3823.68 --> 3825.48] When food banks need food, -[3827.18 --> 3828.72] you lead the cause. -[3830.40 --> 3832.32] I see it in women's ministries here. -[3832.46 --> 3833.74] I see it in men's ministries, -[3833.90 --> 3834.74] seniors' ministry, -[3835.10 --> 3835.66] youth ministry, -[3835.80 --> 3836.46] children's ministry, -[3836.54 --> 3837.30] the work of the elders, -[3837.66 --> 3838.52] the work of the deacons, -[3838.64 --> 3839.56] and even separate -[3839.56 --> 3841.06] from ministries altogether. -[3841.32 --> 3842.38] In your day-to-day, -[3842.50 --> 3843.86] I see you living this out -[3843.86 --> 3844.70] simply because -[3844.70 --> 3845.74] that's what it means -[3845.74 --> 3847.54] to be a community. -[3847.72 --> 3848.44] That's what it means -[3848.44 --> 3849.16] to be a part -[3849.16 --> 3850.02] of a church family. -[3850.02 --> 3851.48] I get to see it all the time, -[3851.56 --> 3852.54] and it is a blessing -[3852.54 --> 3853.84] because that is our calling, -[3853.96 --> 3856.14] to live as community. -[3856.98 --> 3857.88] Our calling is -[3857.88 --> 3859.24] to sacrifice ourselves -[3859.24 --> 3860.44] and live for others, -[3860.56 --> 3861.80] to trade comfort -[3861.80 --> 3862.64] for community. -[3862.80 --> 3863.92] I see it happening here. -[3863.96 --> 3865.04] I pray you do too. -[3865.28 --> 3866.48] I pray that you see -[3866.48 --> 3867.38] that happening here. -[3868.72 --> 3869.70] If you don't, -[3869.72 --> 3870.90] if you don't see it -[3870.90 --> 3871.58] happening here, -[3872.88 --> 3874.16] I'm going to gently suggest -[3874.16 --> 3875.24] that maybe then, -[3875.44 --> 3875.74] maybe, -[3876.10 --> 3876.98] it's because you're not -[3876.98 --> 3877.54] putting yourself -[3877.54 --> 3878.28] in those positions -[3878.28 --> 3879.02] because honestly, -[3879.10 --> 3879.66] if you did, -[3880.32 --> 3881.54] you'll see that it's -[3881.54 --> 3882.72] happening all around you here. -[3883.68 --> 3884.68] That's our calling. -[3886.04 --> 3887.28] But then what's the cost? -[3889.06 --> 3889.90] Well, in short, -[3890.42 --> 3891.22] everything. -[3892.22 --> 3893.28] It costs you. -[3893.42 --> 3894.36] It costs your life. -[3895.08 --> 3896.42] It cost Moses his life. -[3896.54 --> 3897.36] It cost him his family. -[3897.74 --> 3898.62] It cost him his palace. -[3898.82 --> 3899.60] It cost him its wealth. -[3900.00 --> 3901.22] It cost him his social status -[3901.22 --> 3902.02] among the Egyptians. -[3902.46 --> 3903.68] It cost him his social status -[3903.68 --> 3904.40] among the Israelites -[3904.40 --> 3905.24] for 40 years. -[3905.34 --> 3906.46] It costs everything. -[3908.98 --> 3909.84] Because we're not supposed -[3909.84 --> 3910.78] to live for ourselves. -[3911.52 --> 3912.30] That's the point. -[3914.04 --> 3915.10] We live for Christ -[3915.10 --> 3917.82] and for his people, -[3917.92 --> 3918.58] for our neighbors, -[3918.70 --> 3919.60] for our brothers and sisters -[3919.60 --> 3919.98] in Christ, -[3920.04 --> 3920.60] for the communities -[3920.60 --> 3921.48] he places us in. -[3921.80 --> 3922.94] That means our eyes, -[3923.02 --> 3923.88] like Moses' is, -[3923.90 --> 3925.10] need to be fixed on Jesus. -[3925.36 --> 3926.60] We're to live in this world -[3926.60 --> 3928.88] persevering for our Savior, -[3929.28 --> 3930.16] running the race -[3930.16 --> 3930.82] set before us, -[3930.82 --> 3932.40] not with our eyes on a swivel, -[3932.60 --> 3933.74] not looking around -[3933.74 --> 3934.42] at the riches -[3934.42 --> 3935.28] or the pleasures -[3935.28 --> 3936.44] or the comforts -[3936.44 --> 3937.54] that maybe we can attain -[3937.54 --> 3939.70] if we veered off path -[3939.70 --> 3940.30] a little while. -[3941.52 --> 3941.78] No. -[3942.04 --> 3943.16] We run this race -[3943.16 --> 3944.02] with our eyes -[3944.02 --> 3946.04] fixed on Jesus. -[3946.42 --> 3947.22] And like Moses, -[3947.34 --> 3949.02] we persevere in God's name. -[3949.44 --> 3950.22] This race, -[3950.52 --> 3951.56] it will push us. -[3952.28 --> 3953.10] God will call us -[3953.10 --> 3953.62] to do things -[3953.62 --> 3954.58] we find uncomfortable -[3954.58 --> 3955.90] or hard. -[3956.04 --> 3957.20] Things will happen to us -[3957.20 --> 3957.92] that hurt. -[3957.92 --> 3959.86] But we are called -[3959.86 --> 3961.20] to persevere. -[3962.66 --> 3963.86] Remember verse 27 -[3963.86 --> 3964.38] of our text? -[3964.68 --> 3965.72] Moses persevered -[3965.72 --> 3966.60] because he saw -[3966.60 --> 3967.62] who was invisible. -[3968.32 --> 3969.10] He knew God. -[3969.38 --> 3970.66] He knew God's plan -[3970.66 --> 3971.40] for his people. -[3971.80 --> 3972.74] He knew the promises -[3972.74 --> 3973.46] of Yahweh. -[3973.74 --> 3975.16] His eyes were set -[3975.16 --> 3976.96] on God's salvation plan, -[3977.04 --> 3977.80] on God's plan -[3977.80 --> 3979.06] to save Israel -[3979.06 --> 3980.24] from their captivity -[3980.24 --> 3981.28] and bring them -[3981.28 --> 3981.96] to salvation -[3981.96 --> 3982.90] in the promised land. -[3983.84 --> 3984.70] Now read with me -[3984.70 --> 3985.26] verse 28 -[3985.26 --> 3985.84] of our text. -[3985.84 --> 3986.82] By faith, -[3986.94 --> 3987.98] he kept the Passover -[3987.98 --> 3989.22] and the application -[3989.22 --> 3989.68] of blood -[3989.68 --> 3990.74] so that the destroyer -[3990.74 --> 3991.48] of the firstborn -[3991.48 --> 3992.40] would not touch -[3992.40 --> 3993.50] the firstborn of Israel. -[3996.38 --> 3996.90] Moses, -[3997.10 --> 3997.74] knowing God -[3997.74 --> 3998.78] and trusting in God's -[3998.78 --> 3999.60] salvation plan -[3999.60 --> 4000.24] for his people, -[4000.32 --> 4001.26] he took refuge -[4001.26 --> 4002.32] under the blood -[4002.32 --> 4003.38] of the Lamb. -[4004.60 --> 4005.32] He had faith -[4005.32 --> 4006.64] in God's salvation plan. -[4007.58 --> 4008.86] During that Passover night, -[4009.16 --> 4009.94] God asked Moses -[4009.94 --> 4010.94] and all of the Israelites -[4010.94 --> 4012.50] to paint Lamb's blood -[4012.50 --> 4013.42] on the doorposts -[4013.42 --> 4014.00] of their homes. -[4014.00 --> 4015.86] When they did that, -[4015.92 --> 4016.64] the angel of death -[4016.64 --> 4017.88] would pass by their houses -[4017.88 --> 4019.30] and salvation for them -[4019.30 --> 4019.98] would be assured. -[4020.70 --> 4022.08] Moses took refuge -[4022.08 --> 4023.38] under the blood -[4023.38 --> 4024.02] of the Lamb -[4024.02 --> 4025.82] and Hebrews credits him here. -[4027.30 --> 4029.00] He credits that as faith. -[4029.86 --> 4031.00] He could look to the blood -[4031.00 --> 4031.42] of the Lamb -[4031.42 --> 4032.24] on the doorposts -[4032.24 --> 4033.50] and he knew he would be saved. -[4033.74 --> 4035.02] He knew they would be saved. -[4036.16 --> 4037.18] We are called -[4037.18 --> 4038.40] to that same faith. -[4039.62 --> 4041.00] We can know God. -[4041.10 --> 4042.60] We can know Christ -[4042.60 --> 4043.68] because of his word, -[4043.90 --> 4044.76] because of his activity -[4044.76 --> 4045.30] in this world. -[4045.58 --> 4047.16] We can hear and read -[4047.16 --> 4048.56] of his promises to us. -[4048.92 --> 4050.62] We can take the same refuge now -[4050.62 --> 4051.70] and look to the blood -[4051.70 --> 4052.22] of the Lamb, -[4052.50 --> 4053.36] the blood of Christ, -[4053.46 --> 4054.64] and know that we are saved. -[4055.68 --> 4056.50] Our salvation -[4056.50 --> 4057.66] is assured -[4057.66 --> 4059.00] because of the blood -[4059.00 --> 4059.46] of Jesus. -[4060.64 --> 4061.96] Jesus came into this world -[4061.96 --> 4062.88] and he lived -[4062.88 --> 4063.90] the perfect life -[4063.90 --> 4064.52] that you and I -[4064.52 --> 4065.16] failed to live -[4065.16 --> 4066.14] and then he died -[4066.14 --> 4066.74] a death -[4066.74 --> 4067.48] that all of us -[4067.48 --> 4068.34] deserve to die, -[4068.66 --> 4069.28] but he did so -[4069.28 --> 4070.00] in our place. -[4070.00 --> 4072.36] The blood of the Lamb -[4072.36 --> 4072.98] of God -[4072.98 --> 4074.36] was shed for us -[4074.36 --> 4075.34] and that is what -[4075.34 --> 4076.58] we can fix our eyes on -[4076.58 --> 4078.14] because three days later -[4078.14 --> 4079.64] Jesus rises again -[4079.64 --> 4080.20] from the grave -[4080.20 --> 4081.22] defeating sin and death -[4081.22 --> 4081.58] forever -[4081.58 --> 4082.90] and winning victory -[4082.90 --> 4083.62] over this world -[4083.62 --> 4084.66] for all who believe. -[4085.22 --> 4086.36] That is what our eyes -[4086.36 --> 4087.20] should be fixed on. -[4087.92 --> 4089.18] The blood of the Lamb. -[4090.50 --> 4091.24] And when we fix -[4091.24 --> 4092.04] our eyes on Jesus, -[4092.30 --> 4093.76] when we fix our eyes -[4093.76 --> 4094.70] on the promises -[4094.70 --> 4095.40] of salvation -[4095.40 --> 4096.20] granted to us, -[4096.30 --> 4097.02] when we fix -[4097.02 --> 4098.66] our eyes on Christ -[4098.66 --> 4099.76] and all he has done -[4099.76 --> 4100.30] for us, -[4101.00 --> 4101.94] when we fix -[4101.94 --> 4102.96] our eyes -[4102.96 --> 4104.30] on him, -[4105.74 --> 4107.46] we can know -[4107.46 --> 4108.68] we are following -[4108.68 --> 4109.88] in the footsteps -[4109.88 --> 4111.86] of the faithful people -[4111.86 --> 4113.00] who have gone before us -[4113.00 --> 4114.10] and we will be joining -[4114.10 --> 4115.22] a cloud of witnesses -[4115.22 --> 4116.50] who have done the same. -[4117.44 --> 4118.28] Faithful footsteps -[4118.28 --> 4118.98] like Moses. -[4120.92 --> 4121.96] What are your eyes -[4121.96 --> 4123.42] fixed on today? -[4124.88 --> 4126.32] Where do you find -[4126.32 --> 4127.00] refuge? -[4127.00 --> 4132.06] When I think of someone -[4132.06 --> 4132.70] in my life -[4132.70 --> 4133.48] who's persevered -[4133.48 --> 4134.98] for faith in this world, -[4135.04 --> 4135.70] my mind immediately -[4135.70 --> 4136.50] goes to my grandma. -[4136.68 --> 4138.16] My grandma Van Wauveren -[4138.16 --> 4139.66] was my mom's mom. -[4140.54 --> 4141.42] Her and my gramps -[4141.42 --> 4142.00] actually lived -[4142.00 --> 4142.78] in the basement suite -[4142.78 --> 4143.72] of my house growing up, -[4143.78 --> 4145.10] so I got to visit with them -[4145.10 --> 4146.52] and see them a lot. -[4147.06 --> 4148.10] But hearing her story, -[4148.34 --> 4149.82] watching her live her life -[4149.82 --> 4150.92] with all she had -[4150.92 --> 4151.84] to persevere through, -[4152.06 --> 4153.16] it had a tremendous -[4153.16 --> 4154.42] influence on my life. -[4154.92 --> 4155.42] See, my grandma, -[4155.42 --> 4157.22] like most people my age -[4157.22 --> 4157.80] whose grandmas -[4157.80 --> 4158.62] and grandpas did this, -[4158.68 --> 4159.20] she lived through -[4159.20 --> 4159.88] World War II. -[4160.78 --> 4161.62] Her parents owned -[4161.62 --> 4162.84] a greenhouse in Holland -[4162.84 --> 4164.44] and when she was 12 years old, -[4164.50 --> 4165.28] the war began. -[4166.08 --> 4169.78] To protect those people -[4169.78 --> 4170.48] in her family -[4170.48 --> 4171.24] who they loved, -[4171.40 --> 4173.42] her job was to keep a lookout -[4173.42 --> 4174.52] for the German soldiers -[4174.52 --> 4175.50] and whenever they -[4175.50 --> 4176.34] approached the house, -[4176.42 --> 4177.04] she would have to turn -[4177.04 --> 4177.70] the radio on -[4177.70 --> 4178.18] in the greenhouse -[4178.18 --> 4179.56] and when the radio came on, -[4179.96 --> 4180.88] the people that they loved -[4180.88 --> 4181.66] could go and hide -[4181.66 --> 4182.66] and be safe that way. -[4182.66 --> 4183.42] That was her job -[4183.42 --> 4184.44] as a 12-year-old girl. -[4186.14 --> 4187.08] Persevering through a war -[4187.08 --> 4187.66] as a teenager -[4187.66 --> 4188.34] was tough enough -[4188.34 --> 4189.18] but for my grandma, -[4189.62 --> 4190.48] that was just the beginning -[4190.48 --> 4191.72] of the trials in her life. -[4192.10 --> 4192.82] She moved to Canada -[4192.82 --> 4193.64] in 1949 -[4193.64 --> 4194.46] and later that year -[4194.46 --> 4195.02] she got married -[4195.02 --> 4195.90] to a man named Peter. -[4196.24 --> 4197.68] They had four daughters together, -[4197.90 --> 4199.42] Mary, Patricia, Wilma, and Jane. -[4199.54 --> 4200.04] Four daughters. -[4200.58 --> 4201.36] That's perseverance. -[4203.04 --> 4203.42] No, I'm kidding. -[4206.46 --> 4207.14] Tragically though, -[4207.56 --> 4208.62] when my Aunt Jane, -[4208.70 --> 4209.50] the youngest of the four, -[4209.54 --> 4210.86] was only a few months old, -[4210.86 --> 4211.98] her husband Peter, -[4212.24 --> 4213.34] was hit by a train -[4213.34 --> 4214.62] and passed away instantly. -[4215.68 --> 4216.84] My grandma was not even -[4216.84 --> 4217.62] 30 years old -[4217.62 --> 4218.82] and she was widowed -[4218.82 --> 4221.00] with four young girls. -[4221.84 --> 4222.76] Three years later though, -[4222.82 --> 4223.50] she married again. -[4224.06 --> 4224.90] She married another man, -[4224.96 --> 4225.60] someone she had known -[4225.60 --> 4226.12] growing up. -[4226.16 --> 4226.94] His name was William. -[4227.14 --> 4228.06] He had also immigrated -[4228.06 --> 4228.56] to Canada -[4228.56 --> 4230.28] and they had a daughter -[4230.28 --> 4230.94] themselves too. -[4231.02 --> 4231.66] They named her Helen. -[4231.82 --> 4232.52] That's my mom. -[4233.92 --> 4234.98] Over the next 12 years, -[4235.08 --> 4235.92] their greenhouse business -[4235.92 --> 4236.54] kind of grew -[4236.54 --> 4237.36] and they saw the birth -[4237.36 --> 4238.72] of their first two grandchildren -[4238.72 --> 4239.84] but sadly, -[4239.96 --> 4240.94] when my mom was 12 -[4240.94 --> 4241.70] and my grandma -[4241.70 --> 4243.34] was only 45 years old, -[4243.44 --> 4244.64] William suffered -[4244.64 --> 4245.66] a massive heart attack -[4245.66 --> 4246.80] and he died as well. -[4247.70 --> 4248.88] So for the second time -[4248.88 --> 4249.80] in her young life, -[4249.90 --> 4250.78] my grandma was widowed, -[4250.88 --> 4252.38] this time with five children. -[4253.82 --> 4255.02] The next eight years, -[4255.12 --> 4256.20] they managed life okay -[4256.20 --> 4256.98] in Ontario -[4256.98 --> 4258.42] and in 1981, -[4258.86 --> 4259.66] my grandma actually -[4259.66 --> 4260.44] ended up moving back -[4260.44 --> 4260.86] to Holland. -[4261.04 --> 4262.48] She re-emigrated. -[4262.60 --> 4263.06] Emigrated, -[4263.16 --> 4263.72] she went back. -[4263.96 --> 4265.64] She redid life over again -[4265.64 --> 4267.40] and she married a man -[4267.40 --> 4268.48] again that she had known -[4268.48 --> 4269.30] in her life in Holland -[4269.30 --> 4270.08] named Matthijs. -[4271.02 --> 4271.96] She married him -[4271.96 --> 4272.94] and they settled down -[4272.94 --> 4273.84] in Holland. -[4274.00 --> 4274.74] In 1985, -[4275.18 --> 4275.88] in what I assume -[4275.88 --> 4276.82] was the greatest moment -[4276.82 --> 4277.32] of her life, -[4277.38 --> 4278.90] her 10th grandchild -[4278.90 --> 4279.54] was born. -[4280.10 --> 4280.82] He ended up being -[4280.82 --> 4281.76] the 10th of 19, -[4281.94 --> 4282.46] so some would say -[4282.46 --> 4283.76] the peak of the grandchildren. -[4285.46 --> 4287.44] The mountaintop experience -[4287.44 --> 4288.40] of grandchildren. -[4289.58 --> 4290.28] It was me. -[4290.36 --> 4291.36] I was the grandchild -[4291.36 --> 4292.00] that was born. -[4292.50 --> 4293.42] If we didn't know. -[4293.42 --> 4297.10] But death kept rearing -[4297.10 --> 4298.52] its head in our family. -[4298.64 --> 4300.08] A year after I was born, -[4300.24 --> 4300.78] my cousin, -[4300.94 --> 4302.00] who was 12 at the time, -[4302.08 --> 4302.64] passed away -[4302.64 --> 4304.88] in a freak farm accident -[4304.88 --> 4305.98] in Ontario. -[4307.06 --> 4308.02] In 1993, -[4308.12 --> 4308.84] my grandma moved back -[4308.84 --> 4309.28] to Canada, -[4309.42 --> 4310.66] immigrating for the second time -[4310.66 --> 4311.16] in her life, -[4311.22 --> 4312.78] this time with my now gramps, -[4312.88 --> 4314.20] who I learned to know -[4314.20 --> 4314.90] and love, of course, -[4314.96 --> 4316.10] the only grandfather I knew, -[4316.32 --> 4317.28] but it was his first time, -[4317.58 --> 4318.26] so she had to do -[4318.26 --> 4319.24] all of that over again -[4319.24 --> 4320.12] with her husband. -[4320.12 --> 4323.78] They moved into -[4323.78 --> 4324.42] the basement suite -[4324.42 --> 4325.24] that I lived in -[4325.24 --> 4326.06] and I got to grow up -[4326.06 --> 4327.60] with them nearby. -[4327.80 --> 4328.90] However, later that year, -[4329.00 --> 4329.70] a few months after -[4329.70 --> 4330.32] they immigrated, -[4330.42 --> 4331.42] another of my cousins -[4331.42 --> 4332.16] passed away. -[4333.58 --> 4334.84] Janelle was only alive -[4334.84 --> 4335.60] for a few months -[4335.60 --> 4336.32] when she died. -[4337.76 --> 4338.72] Six years later, -[4339.26 --> 4340.20] death keeps appearing. -[4340.40 --> 4341.76] My grandma's oldest daughter, -[4341.94 --> 4342.26] Mary, -[4343.38 --> 4344.66] my mom's oldest sister, -[4344.80 --> 4345.56] suddenly passed away. -[4346.02 --> 4346.86] She went to bed healthy, -[4347.48 --> 4348.64] had an aortic dissection, -[4348.76 --> 4349.14] it's called, -[4349.14 --> 4349.98] never woke up. -[4350.22 --> 4351.44] She had five kids herself, -[4351.92 --> 4354.18] they were 13 to 25 at the time, -[4354.64 --> 4355.68] and my grandma had now -[4355.68 --> 4357.62] lost her oldest daughter as well. -[4358.42 --> 4359.54] Five years after that, -[4359.60 --> 4360.22] after being married -[4360.22 --> 4361.08] for 23 years, -[4361.18 --> 4362.66] my gramps also passed away -[4362.66 --> 4364.08] from complications with cancer, -[4364.20 --> 4364.82] widowing my grandma -[4364.82 --> 4366.14] for a third time in her life. -[4367.62 --> 4369.12] She lived for five more years -[4369.12 --> 4369.72] at that point. -[4370.44 --> 4371.20] She moved actually -[4371.20 --> 4371.94] from where we lived -[4371.94 --> 4372.96] on the island to Alberta -[4372.96 --> 4374.42] and finally went home -[4374.42 --> 4375.00] to the Lord -[4375.00 --> 4377.28] at the age of 82 in 2009. -[4377.46 --> 4378.48] So through all of this, -[4379.14 --> 4380.20] through World War II, -[4380.84 --> 4381.98] through all of the immigration -[4381.98 --> 4382.78] back and forth, -[4383.06 --> 4383.86] through the struggles -[4383.86 --> 4384.80] of single parenting -[4384.80 --> 4385.68] at different points -[4385.68 --> 4386.28] in her life, -[4386.78 --> 4387.86] from moving to Holland -[4387.86 --> 4388.54] to Ontario, -[4388.66 --> 4389.26] back to Holland -[4389.26 --> 4390.52] to BC and then Alberta, -[4391.04 --> 4392.82] oftentimes unmarried, -[4393.70 --> 4394.28] through a life -[4394.28 --> 4394.86] where she outlived -[4394.86 --> 4395.52] three husbands, -[4395.78 --> 4396.38] one child, -[4396.52 --> 4397.26] three grandchildren, -[4397.48 --> 4398.20] and almost all -[4398.20 --> 4398.80] of her siblings, -[4400.22 --> 4401.90] my grandma never lost the faith. -[4401.90 --> 4404.06] Now, I wasn't around -[4404.06 --> 4404.68] for the first number -[4404.68 --> 4405.62] of people who passed away -[4405.62 --> 4406.26] in her life, -[4406.32 --> 4406.90] but I was around -[4406.90 --> 4408.12] for the second handful -[4408.12 --> 4408.92] and every time we got -[4408.92 --> 4410.34] together as a family -[4410.34 --> 4411.24] to grieve the loss -[4411.24 --> 4412.26] of another loved one, -[4413.06 --> 4413.84] my grandma grieved, -[4413.98 --> 4414.32] of course, -[4414.78 --> 4417.00] but she also held out hope. -[4417.68 --> 4419.08] She was always a beacon -[4419.08 --> 4420.18] of hope and perseverance. -[4420.38 --> 4421.14] She knew the Lord. -[4421.54 --> 4422.16] She knew what it meant -[4422.16 --> 4423.72] to persevere in her faith. -[4424.74 --> 4426.08] She became a rock -[4426.08 --> 4427.84] on which our family stood -[4427.84 --> 4429.24] and yet she always pointed -[4429.24 --> 4430.18] to the rock, -[4430.54 --> 4431.18] the rock, -[4431.32 --> 4432.44] her Savior, Jesus Christ, -[4432.52 --> 4433.24] the foundation -[4433.24 --> 4435.04] on which she placed her faith. -[4436.32 --> 4437.62] She knew that no matter what, -[4437.70 --> 4438.78] all faith could be found -[4438.78 --> 4439.24] in Jesus, -[4440.24 --> 4442.68] no matter what trials -[4442.68 --> 4443.44] were thrown her way. -[4444.44 --> 4445.86] And so she kept her eyes -[4445.86 --> 4446.70] on Christ, -[4447.46 --> 4449.30] no matter what was happening. -[4449.78 --> 4450.48] She never missed -[4450.48 --> 4451.16] a church service. -[4451.44 --> 4452.64] She prayed continuously. -[4452.82 --> 4454.06] She kept her Bible close. -[4454.50 --> 4455.66] She sang in the choir -[4455.66 --> 4456.40] all her life. -[4456.88 --> 4457.70] And even if there was -[4457.70 --> 4458.76] tears in her eyes, -[4459.10 --> 4460.12] she did this with a smile -[4460.12 --> 4460.78] on her face, -[4461.02 --> 4462.04] with a faith that was -[4462.04 --> 4463.02] grounded in Jesus -[4463.02 --> 4464.36] and with jelly beans -[4464.36 --> 4465.58] on her living room table -[4465.58 --> 4466.58] for all of her grandkids. -[4468.58 --> 4469.78] That's my example -[4469.78 --> 4471.62] of someone who persevered -[4471.62 --> 4472.22] in the faith, -[4472.80 --> 4474.82] no matter the cost. -[4476.38 --> 4477.46] And so I ask you this, -[4478.20 --> 4479.48] who is your example? -[4480.34 --> 4481.98] Who is your faith hero -[4481.98 --> 4483.22] who lived out this kind -[4483.22 --> 4484.56] of perseverance in your life? -[4484.90 --> 4486.68] Who has their eyes fixed -[4486.68 --> 4487.68] on Jesus, -[4487.88 --> 4488.86] no matter the calling, -[4489.28 --> 4490.34] no matter the cost? -[4491.76 --> 4492.48] And then, -[4492.90 --> 4493.70] for us all, -[4493.84 --> 4494.36] what if we were -[4494.36 --> 4495.22] a little more like that? -[4496.16 --> 4496.88] What if we were -[4496.88 --> 4498.06] a little bit more like Moses? -[4498.32 --> 4498.82] What if we were -[4498.82 --> 4499.58] a little bit more -[4499.58 --> 4500.26] like my grandma? -[4500.42 --> 4501.08] What would happen -[4501.08 --> 4502.00] if we persevered -[4502.00 --> 4502.74] and saw Jesus -[4502.74 --> 4504.54] in all areas of our life, -[4504.66 --> 4505.70] the good and the bad? -[4506.96 --> 4507.78] What would happen -[4507.78 --> 4508.48] to our families? -[4508.72 --> 4509.22] What would happen -[4509.22 --> 4509.94] to this church? -[4510.02 --> 4510.50] What would happen -[4510.50 --> 4511.22] to our community? -[4511.22 --> 4513.56] What would happen -[4513.56 --> 4515.88] if no matter the cost, -[4516.62 --> 4519.44] if you fixed your eyes -[4519.44 --> 4520.02] on Jesus, -[4520.98 --> 4522.32] lived out his calling -[4522.32 --> 4523.06] in this world, -[4523.74 --> 4524.96] and persevered -[4524.96 --> 4525.64] for the faith? -[4526.60 --> 4527.64] What would happen? -[4529.04 --> 4529.36] Amen. -[4529.60 --> 4530.08] Let me pray. -[4530.08 --> 4537.54] Father God, -[4537.62 --> 4540.22] we hear stories -[4540.22 --> 4541.70] like Moses. -[4542.98 --> 4544.92] We hear stories -[4544.92 --> 4546.32] of people persevering -[4546.32 --> 4547.38] through hardships, -[4547.68 --> 4548.98] going from riches -[4548.98 --> 4549.78] to rags, -[4550.02 --> 4551.10] losing people, -[4551.28 --> 4554.46] losing people they love, -[4555.12 --> 4556.32] places they love. -[4557.32 --> 4558.40] Lord, having things -[4558.40 --> 4559.40] happened in their life -[4559.40 --> 4562.78] that can tear you down, -[4563.56 --> 4564.78] and yet we hear stories -[4564.78 --> 4565.56] of these people -[4565.56 --> 4567.82] pressing forward, -[4568.56 --> 4569.60] persevering for your -[4569.60 --> 4570.42] gospel truth, -[4571.30 --> 4571.88] and knowing -[4571.88 --> 4573.78] that they can be secure -[4573.78 --> 4575.22] in who they are -[4575.22 --> 4576.26] because you are -[4576.26 --> 4577.32] who you say you are, -[4578.26 --> 4579.38] that you sent your son -[4579.38 --> 4580.34] to save us all, -[4580.84 --> 4581.76] and that that salvation -[4581.76 --> 4583.14] is assured for all of us. -[4584.46 --> 4585.50] Lord, may that -[4585.50 --> 4587.46] giant G gospel -[4587.46 --> 4588.02] reign true -[4588.02 --> 4588.66] in our hearts -[4588.66 --> 4589.74] so that we, -[4590.72 --> 4591.94] no matter what happens, -[4592.06 --> 4593.06] no matter the cost, -[4593.68 --> 4594.58] no matter how we are -[4594.58 --> 4595.36] called to live out -[4595.36 --> 4596.52] this calling of love -[4596.52 --> 4597.28] in the world, -[4599.42 --> 4600.54] God, may we continue -[4600.54 --> 4603.10] to keep our eyes -[4603.10 --> 4603.80] fixed on you -[4603.80 --> 4606.32] and strive -[4606.32 --> 4607.14] to become -[4607.14 --> 4608.08] more like you. -[4609.18 --> 4609.98] May we leave -[4609.98 --> 4610.90] this place today -[4610.90 --> 4612.74] doing just that. -[4612.84 --> 4613.38] May you place -[4613.38 --> 4613.96] on our hearts -[4613.96 --> 4614.86] people in our lives -[4614.86 --> 4615.50] who have exuded -[4615.50 --> 4616.36] this perseverance -[4616.36 --> 4617.04] of faith, -[4617.72 --> 4618.78] and may we -[4618.78 --> 4620.30] share those stories. -[4623.40 --> 4624.24] God, may we all -[4624.24 --> 4625.02] draw closer to you -[4625.02 --> 4625.40] through that. -[4625.62 --> 4626.00] In your name, -[4626.78 --> 4626.96] amen. -[4626.96 --> 4627.06] Amen. -[4632.46 --> 4633.52] Please stand and sing. -[4633.52 --> 4663.20] Starting in wam -[4663.20 --> 4665.88] is Christ. -[4666.54 --> 4667.60] Hallelujah. -[4671.54 --> 4675.14] Jesus is my -[4675.14 --> 4676.92] love. -[4678.60 --> 4681.58] I once was lost -[4681.58 --> 4685.32] in darkest night, yet thought I -[4685.32 --> 4688.64] knew the way. -[4688.64 --> 4692.52] The sin I promised, joy -[4692.52 --> 4695.18] and life, can led me -[4695.18 --> 4698.56] to the grave. -[4698.90 --> 4701.10] I had no hope -[4701.10 --> 4703.48] that you alone -[4703.48 --> 4705.96] are able to -[4705.96 --> 4708.42] your wealth. -[4708.86 --> 4711.00] And if you had -[4711.00 --> 4713.48] come on me first, -[4713.48 --> 4715.98] I would refuse -[4715.98 --> 4718.48] you still. -[4722.52 --> 4729.74] But as I ran, I held -[4729.74 --> 4733.18] a grace, indifferent to -[4733.18 --> 4735.72] the cost. -[4736.10 --> 4739.52] You would deny my health -[4739.52 --> 4742.98] the state, and led me to -[4742.98 --> 4745.48] the cost. -[4745.48 --> 4748.14] And I beheld -[4748.14 --> 4750.44] God's love to save. -[4750.44 --> 4751.80] You suffered -[4751.80 --> 4755.52] in my place. -[4755.52 --> 4757.86] You bore the wrath, -[4758.32 --> 4760.34] he served for me. -[4760.70 --> 4762.48] Now all I know -[4762.48 --> 4765.48] is praise. -[4765.48 --> 4769.40] Hose him for the cold米. -[4769.46 --> 4770.46] All he has -[4770.58 --> 4791.02] in my KIM -[4791.02 --> 4799.72] But I would be yours alone, soon as the all might see. -[4799.72 --> 4809.48] The strength to follow your commands would never come from me. -[4809.48 --> 4819.24] Oh, Father, you might not reply in any way you choose. -[4819.24 --> 4828.78] And let my song forever be my only love, Savior. -[4829.98 --> 4841.28] Hallelujah, all I have is Christ. -[4841.28 --> 4850.98] Hallelujah, Jesus is my life. -[4850.98 --> 4860.40] Hallelujah, all I have is Christ. -[4860.86 --> 4870.38] Hallelujah, Jesus is my life. -[4871.28 --> 4883.40] Hallelujah, all I have is Christ. -[4883.40 --> 4895.58] Hallelujah, Jesus is my life. -[4895.58 --> 4897.58] Amen. -[4897.58 --> 4898.58] Amen. -[4898.58 --> 4898.98] Amen. -[4898.98 --> 4899.22] Amen. -[4899.22 --> 4899.58] Amen. -[4899.58 --> 4901.34] Amen. -[4901.34 --> 4905.22] I invite you all after the service to join us for some fellowship in the foyer afterwards. -[4905.22 --> 4909.70] If you're in need of prayer today, there will be prayer people available with yellow name -[4909.70 --> 4914.94] on, so please seek them out if you are in need of that. Before we go, we're going to sing one more -[4914.94 --> 4919.92] song, but I invite you to hear God's blessing, his parting blessing this morning from Numbers -[4919.92 --> 4927.50] chapter 6, where it says, the Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make his face shine upon you -[4927.50 --> 4935.30] and be gracious to you. The Lord turn his face toward you and give you his peace. And all God's -[4935.30 --> 4935.80] people said. -[4940.80 --> 4962.76] Should nothing of our effort stand, no legacy survive, unless the Lord does raise the house -[4962.76 --> 4982.64] in vain its builders strive. To you who boast tomorrow's game, tell me what is your life? -[4982.64 --> 4996.14] A mist that banishes at dawn, all glory be to Christ. -[4996.14 --> 5023.94] All glory be to Christ the King. All glory be to Christ. His rule and reign will ever sing. All glory be to Christ. -[5023.94 --> 5045.94] His will be done, His kingdom come on earth as is above. Who is His self-artigating? Praise Him, the Lord of God. -[5045.94 --> 5047.94] His will, His tomb and reign will ever sing. The living heart of the eye. A filling heart of the eye. -[5047.94 --> 5063.74] The filling heart of Thee satisfied, the thirsty with of the pride. We'll take a nap on high and sin. All glory be to God. -[5063.74 --> 5081.74] All glory need to God's love, all glory need to God. His love and grace will ever sing, all glory need to God. -[5081.74 --> 5100.74] When all my name are great, I am the faithful and the true, the Lamb who was forsaken, slain his way of Jesus. -[5100.74 --> 5117.74] To hold our God shall live with us, and be to our steadfast life, and we shall let his people be, O glory be to Christ. -[5117.74 --> 5141.18] All glory be to Christ our King, all glory be to Christ our King, all glory be to Christ our King. -[5141.18 --> 5146.18] All glory be to Christ our King, all glory be to Christ our King. -[5146.18 --> 5159.18] His rule and reign will ever sing, all glory be to Christ our King. -[5171.18 --> 5174.18] Thanks again to your love and bye. -[5174.18 --> 5176.32] Just so. -[5176.32 --> 5180.18] Libertad and reign on what are our grandstand for His holy using? -[5181.18 --> 5186.18] The Lord victorious is infinite, and his love and grace will ever be studied. -[5186.18 --> 5189.18] They dare be more than Meredith and the Holy Son of Granddad. -[5189.18 --> 5191.18] Listen to your children in our fleet. -[5191.18 --> 5194.18] Elaborate with your life is very of the younger e- owes скор Varj Vicechu. -[5194.18 --> 5198.18] Tuesday's birthday不是一个人, both at the same time. -[5198.18 --> 5200.18] ...you're able to speak humans. -[5200.18 --> 5201.18] Amen. -[5230.18 --> 5231.18] Amen. -[5260.18 --> 5261.18] Amen. -[5290.18 --> 5291.18] Amen. -[5320.18 --> 5321.18] Amen. -[5350.18 --> 5351.18] Amen. -[5380.18 --> 5381.18] Amen. -[5410.18 --> 5411.18] Amen. -[5440.18 --> 5441.18] Amen. -[5470.18 --> 5471.18] Amen. -[5500.18 --> 5501.18] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 18 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 18 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 53baea1d1724392834deef76c04acbbb5ee5779d..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 18 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,84 +0,0 @@ -• Testimony of salvation through Jesus Christ -• Acknowledgment and gratitude for God's forgiveness and grace -• Declaration of faith in the power of the cross -• Confession of sin as finished by Jesus -• Acknowledgement of God's love and miracles -• Affirmation of faith in the wonder-working God -• Witness to physical and emotional healing through prayer and faith -• Issues with presenter program leading to lack of lyrics -• Baptism celebration for three new members -• Announcement about upcoming youth worship night -• Invitation to participate in online worship response -• Introduction of pastor Chris and his role -• Greeting and opening blessing for the service -• Youth ministry update, including a Tri-Church Tournament event -• The opening prayer is made to God, referencing Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit -• Reading from 2 Samuel 22, describing God as a rock, fortress, deliverer, shield, and Savior -• Worship song "Here I Am to Worship" is sung multiple times, with lyrics expressing devotion and admiration for God's love and sacrifice -• Prayer of confession and assurance is offered, acknowledging vulnerability to sin and temptation, and seeking forgiveness and restoration from God -• Final prayer expresses gratitude for the gospel and Christ's sacrifice, asking for strength to live in His power and love -• The beauty and power of Jesus' name -• Heaven and hell, sin and redemption through Christ -• Baptism as a sacrament, not magical but a mystery of God's promises -• Infant baptism as an act of faith, signifying the child's place in the covenant with God -• The significance of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection -• The covenant with Abraham is sealed in the sign of circumcision and promises God's blessing, offspring, children, and land. -• God's promise to Abraham is fulfilled in Jesus Christ as the Messiah who brings salvation through his death and resurrection. -• Baptism is a sacrament that seals adoption as children of God and writes his name on their foreheads. -• Peter writes about believers being a chosen people, royal priesthood, holy nation, and people belonging to God. -• The weight of church history, example of redemptive history in scripture, and Christ's command to baptize are used to confirm the practice of baptism. -• The parents of Daphne, Hayden, and Esty are asked questions about their understanding of baptism and their promises to raise their children as Christians. -• Invitation to participate in a ritual or ceremony -• Baptism of three girls, Hayden, Lexi, and Daphne -• Blessing and support for the girls and their families -• Prayer and declaration of faith in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit -• The Lord's blessing on the children -• Promises made to support and encourage the girls (Daphne, Hayden, Esty) -• A prayer offered for the family -• The Lord putting his name on the children and making them his own -• Faithfulness in the past and future -• The family together seeing the day when each girl makes their faith their own -• Trusting in God's call on the girls' lives -• Scripture reading or recitation of a hymn -• Invitation to children to come up for blessing and potentially go to children's worship time -• Explanation of procedure for children's blessing and signing in to children's worship time -• Children's blessing prayer -• Invocation to stand and perform the children's blessing together -• Tithes and offerings for Langley Emanuel and North American Indigenous Ministries (NAME) -• NAME's culturally conscious approach to helping First Nations people -• Project 627, supporting Tim and Charity Johnson in the Shushua Nation Reserve -• Night Shift outreach ministry for people in poverty and those with addictions -• Bible verse from Hagar, chapter 10, verses 7-8 -• Congregational prayer led by a speaker -• Announcements of births, including David and Sheila Skipper's baby boy Dawson Arthur -• Prayers and concerns for individuals affected by illness, injury, and death -• Prayer for rain to help put out fires burning in the province -• Baptism of three new baby girls and prayer for their families -• Discussion of cultural mandate to fill the earth and subdue it -• Addressing potential controversy surrounding climate change and biblical interpretation -• The cultural mandate: a commission from God to Adam and Eve to be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, subdue it, and rule over it -• The old language of "exercise dominion" and its modern interpretations in terms of growth, exploration, creativity, and responsibility -• Challenges to the cultural mandate due to finite resources and 7.9 billion people on a planet with a changing climate -• Human responsibility in the face of climate change and global challenges, including questions about family size and individual responsibilities -• The distinction between scientific opinions on climate change and Christian responsibility in living out the cultural mandate -• Climate change is increasingly being discussed as a factor in the ethics of having children -• Articles in Vox.com, Vogue magazine, and Science Daily have raised questions about whether it's morally justifiable to bring children into a world with an uncertain future -• A study published in Population and Environment found that people are holding off on having kids due to overconsumption, overpopulation, and uncertainty about the future -• Philosophers, including Thomas Reeder, are suggesting that reducing family size could be a way to mitigate climate change -• Some non-profits, such as Conceivable Future, frame the issue as a "reproductive crisis" -• The question of whether it's morally justifiable to have children in a world with climate change is being asked across various levels of discourse, from popular culture to academic and philosophical circles -• Faith in God's love and word should guide decision-making, not fear -• Christians have a responsibility to care for and steward God's creation -• The cultural mandate (Genesis 1:28) is not the problem but the solution to addressing environmental issues such as climate change -• Christians are called to be faithful stewards of the earth and to bring order out of chaos -• Faith and wisdom should guide Christian decision-making in response to environmental challenges -• The love of God for the world -• Jesus' sacrifice and resurrection -• Our response to God's commission to address challenges in the world -• The power of prayer and the Holy Spirit to guide us -• Fellowship and community with other Christians -• Going out into the week with God's blessing and presence -• A blessing is requested for someone or something -• A series of verses and phrases invoking God's presence, protection, and favor are recited -• The speaker asks not to be afraid and requests peace and love from the Lord -• Various iterations of a prayer or blessing are repeated multiple times, with slight variations in wording \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 18 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 18 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 9bc180533f7a9e4136270a7e17f231205f731534..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 18 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1358 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 10.24] Yours, only by grace, this scarlet story, the final word. -[13.58 --> 21.86] On that cross, your life for my salvation, you made a way. -[21.86 --> 31.44] My heart has found forgiveness, oh, that day you said my sin was finished. -[32.44 --> 37.10] I could never thank you enough. -[40.62 --> 46.22] Out of that grave, my Savior rose. -[46.22 --> 52.10] Death lost its claim, once and for all. -[52.62 --> 61.22] Breaking the curse, you wrote my story, your finished word. -[61.22 --> 67.62] Out of that grave, my Savior rose. -[67.62 --> 72.98] On that cross, your life for my salvation, you made a way. -[72.98 --> 82.56] My heart has found forgiveness, oh, that day you said my sin was finished. -[82.56 --> 88.54] I could never thank you enough. -[91.00 --> 101.00] Just want to say thank you for all that you've done for me. -[101.00 --> 110.22] Lord, I receive it, and I believe it. -[110.22 --> 112.26] Yeah, yeah. -[112.26 --> 118.08] I receive your grace. -[120.70 --> 126.66] I receive your peace over me. -[126.66 --> 136.58] I receive the power of the cross alive in me. -[136.58 --> 166.56] I receive your grace. -[166.58 --> 168.58] I receive your grace. -[168.58 --> 174.72] I receive your grace over me. -[174.72 --> 184.98] I receive the power of the cross alive in me. -[184.98 --> 186.34] Yeah, yeah. -[186.34 --> 191.54] I believe I'm healed. -[191.54 --> 197.54] I believe your grace over me. -[197.68 --> 199.54] I receive your grace. -[199.54 --> 209.52] I believe in Jesus Christ, the power inside of me. -[209.52 --> 219.54] Oh, on my cross, my life for my salvation, you made a way. -[219.54 --> 223.38] My heart is full for you -[223.38 --> 229.42] Oh, that thing you said my sin was finished -[229.42 --> 234.82] I could never thank you enough -[234.82 --> 240.74] I could never thank you enough -[240.74 --> 247.30] I could never thank you enough -[249.54 --> 279.52] I could never thank you enough -[279.54 --> 295.92] I'll lecture to you -[295.92 --> 296.66] It's you. -[297.66 --> 300.04] Oh, Jesus, it's you. -[302.38 --> 307.10] I believe you're the wonder-working God. -[307.10 --> 310.46] You're the wonder-working God. -[310.88 --> 313.60] You're the miracles I've seen. -[314.18 --> 316.80] Too good to not believe. -[317.54 --> 320.42] You're the wonder-working God. -[320.94 --> 323.56] And you're here because you love. -[323.56 --> 326.96] The miracles will see. -[327.36 --> 330.10] You're too good to not believe. -[330.84 --> 333.56] Too good to not believe. -[333.56 --> 336.88] Too good to not believe. -[341.48 --> 347.06] And I can't resurrect a man with my own hands. -[348.76 --> 351.96] But just the mention of your name -[351.96 --> 353.76] Can raise the dead. -[355.76 --> 361.04] And all the glory to the only one who cares. -[361.04 --> 363.66] Jesus, it's you. -[364.24 --> 366.90] Oh, Jesus, it's you. -[367.30 --> 368.32] Yes, I believe. -[369.16 --> 370.84] I believe. -[371.10 --> 373.74] You're the wonder-working God. -[374.18 --> 377.10] You're the wonder-working God. -[377.10 --> 380.30] All the miracles I've seen. -[380.90 --> 383.38] Too good to not believe. -[383.64 --> 387.08] You're the wonder-working God. -[387.18 --> 390.28] And you're here because you love. -[390.92 --> 393.56] All the miracles we'll see. -[393.56 --> 396.80] You're too good to not believe. -[396.80 --> 397.16] Come on. -[397.16 --> 397.26] Come on. -[397.26 --> 400.16] You're the wonder-working God. -[400.16 --> 400.36] Come on. -[400.36 --> 400.96] Come on. -[400.96 --> 403.64] You're the wonder-working God. -[403.64 --> 404.64] Yes, you are. -[404.64 --> 405.64] You're the wonder-working God. -[405.64 --> 406.84] All the miracles I've seen. -[406.84 --> 410.14] Too good to not believe. -[410.14 --> 413.64] You're the wonder-working God. -[413.64 --> 416.84] And you're here because you love. -[416.84 --> 420.12] All the miracles we'll see. -[420.12 --> 423.52] You're too good to not believe. -[423.52 --> 426.86] Too good to not believe. -[426.86 --> 428.70] Too good. -[428.70 --> 429.56] Yes, you are. -[429.56 --> 430.46] Yes, you are. -[430.46 --> 433.86] Oh, I believe in you, Jesus. -[433.86 --> 436.54] I believe in you, Jesus. -[436.54 --> 440.10] Oh, I believe. -[441.68 --> 444.24] I see too much to not believe. -[445.52 --> 446.62] Yes, I believe. -[447.24 --> 448.98] How could I not believe? -[448.98 --> 451.38] After everything I've seen. -[452.58 --> 455.28] After everything I've seen. -[455.28 --> 457.56] Oh, I believe. -[462.30 --> 465.36] I've seen cancer disappear. -[465.36 --> 468.76] I've seen broken bodies here. -[468.76 --> 472.24] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[472.24 --> 475.44] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[475.44 --> 478.04] I've seen troubled souls delivered. -[478.04 --> 479.04] I've seen real life resurrection. -[479.04 --> 481.74] I've seen mental health restored. -[481.74 --> 483.44] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[483.44 --> 488.82] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[488.82 --> 491.82] I've seen families reunited. -[491.82 --> 495.72] I've seen prodigal's return. -[495.72 --> 497.22] I've seen prodigal's return. -[497.22 --> 498.72] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[498.72 --> 500.40] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[500.40 --> 504.34] I've seen troubled souls delivered. -[504.34 --> 505.74] I've seen Alex father free. -[505.74 --> 508.24] I've seen Alex father free. -[508.24 --> 509.24] I've seen Alex father free. -[509.24 --> 513.44] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[513.44 --> 513.74] Come on. -[513.74 --> 516.68] I've seen cancer disappear. -[516.68 --> 522.08] I've seen broken bodies here. -[522.08 --> 525.58] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[525.58 --> 529.10] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[529.10 --> 532.60] I've seen real life resurrection. -[532.60 --> 535.90] I've seen mental health restored. -[535.90 --> 539.24] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[539.24 --> 542.40] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[542.40 --> 545.80] I've seen families reunited. -[545.80 --> 549.20] I've seen prodigal's return. -[549.20 --> 552.40] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[552.40 --> 555.62] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[555.62 --> 559.08] I've seen troubled souls delivered. -[559.08 --> 561.28] I've seen Alex father free. -[566.40 --> 568.80] Good morning, everyone. -[568.80 --> 569.60] How are we doing? -[569.60 --> 571.30] Good. -[571.30 --> 573.80] Okay, how are we doing? -[573.80 --> 575.40] There we go. -[575.40 --> 577.60] A lively bunch this morning. -[577.60 --> 580.54] We are really excited to worship today. -[580.54 --> 583.18] We are really excited that you are all here. -[583.18 --> 584.88] If you don't know who I am, my name is Chris. -[584.88 --> 587.88] I'm one of the pastors here, and it's my privilege this morning, -[587.88 --> 592.02] along with these others on stage, to lead you in worship. -[592.02 --> 597.02] This morning, we are really, really blessed to celebrate the baptism -[597.02 --> 606.26] of three new-ish little girls in our church community, and so you will see that later on. -[606.26 --> 609.90] If you are participating online, we are excited that you are here. -[609.90 --> 615.28] Later on in the service, there will be an opportunity for you to respond with the congregation in a voice, -[615.28 --> 618.70] and we invite you to do that there as well. -[618.70 --> 624.90] Now, sitting here, you've probably noticed, and if you're at home, you've probably figured it out already, too, -[624.90 --> 630.74] but we're having the same issue with our pro presenter program that we did last week, and so there are no lyrics, -[630.74 --> 634.78] and so you had papers given to you on your way in. -[634.78 --> 638.46] Everyone's excited to be here in worship this morning. -[641.02 --> 643.68] You had papers given to you on your way in with the lyrics for that. -[643.68 --> 649.02] As well, if you are at home, in anticipation that this may happen again, -[649.46 --> 656.06] we linked a document to the order of worship in the e-bulletin that has the lyrics to all the psalms. -[656.54 --> 659.70] So if you're at home and you're looking for the lyrics, just scroll down in the e-bulletin. -[659.70 --> 666.64] It'll say click here for all the lyrics, and you can click there, and that will take you to what we are singing here this morning. -[668.00 --> 671.48] Before we begin, just one announcement from me, and then another one from Josh. -[671.48 --> 673.42] So Josh, you get in the wings and come on up. -[674.58 --> 679.80] Tonight is youth worship night here at the church, and so if you haven't heard about that, -[679.90 --> 684.78] grab Pastor Kevin and ask him what that's all about, but you get to meet here as well. -[685.22 --> 689.12] Josh, why don't you do yours, and then we'll do our opening blessing. -[690.02 --> 694.64] Hey, everybody. This is on? Yeah? Okay. No, okay. -[695.08 --> 698.86] So, hi, Adrian. Hey, this is a message for you and the rest of the young adults. -[699.80 --> 703.34] July 24th is the second event of the Tri-Church Tournament. -[704.18 --> 707.66] It's at Lake Hayden, Hayden Lake, 1030. -[708.12 --> 712.24] We're building a raft, and we have to rescue Kevin in the middle of the lake, -[712.48 --> 716.38] and if you guys don't show up, Kevin will be stuck there and won't be able to come to church next Sunday. -[719.70 --> 725.38] Also, we want to win the tournament. We won the first event, and we want to keep that going, -[725.90 --> 728.64] because we need to show will be who's better. -[730.60 --> 731.90] It would be great to have you all there. -[732.46 --> 734.90] We loved having you at the first event. We had a great turnout. -[734.90 --> 737.32] We would love to increase that amount. -[738.62 --> 738.98] Yeah. -[745.06 --> 747.12] Josh meant to end that by saying, -[747.22 --> 749.70] if you have any questions, grab me in the foyer afterwards. -[752.74 --> 753.48] And Samara. -[754.22 --> 755.76] Samara, wave your hand. I'm going to put you on the spot. -[755.90 --> 757.34] That's Samara. Everyone ask her. -[758.22 --> 758.50] All right. -[758.50 --> 760.64] As you're able, and where you are, I'm going to invite you to stand, -[761.08 --> 763.88] and we can come together in the presence of God for worship. -[766.90 --> 770.30] God not only calls us into his presence, -[770.42 --> 773.76] but he greets us here as we gather in his name, -[773.82 --> 776.52] and so receive the greeting of our God. -[777.98 --> 778.38] Grace, -[779.46 --> 779.84] mercy, -[780.24 --> 781.22] and peace to you. -[781.34 --> 783.48] From God, our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, -[783.56 --> 784.04] his Son, -[784.36 --> 785.04] and our Savior, -[785.44 --> 788.02] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[789.02 --> 789.46] Amen. -[789.96 --> 790.92] Let's worship God this morning. -[796.66 --> 798.36] Before we call to worship this morning, -[798.52 --> 802.16] hear these words from David from 2 Samuel 22. -[804.92 --> 806.92] The Lord is my rock, -[807.02 --> 807.68] my fortress, -[807.86 --> 809.16] and my deliverer. -[809.70 --> 811.72] My God is my rock, -[811.90 --> 813.24] in whom I take refuge, -[813.84 --> 814.82] my shield, -[815.10 --> 816.56] and the horn of my salvation. -[816.56 --> 819.36] He is my stronghold, -[819.56 --> 820.50] my refuge, -[820.58 --> 821.40] and my Savior. -[822.40 --> 824.92] For who is God besides the Lord? -[825.70 --> 828.20] And who is the rock except our God? -[828.96 --> 830.50] The Lord lives. -[831.38 --> 833.68] Praise be to my rock. -[834.12 --> 835.60] Exalted be my God, -[835.94 --> 836.42] the rock, -[836.56 --> 837.18] my Savior. -[838.08 --> 838.38] Therefore, -[838.70 --> 839.88] I will praise you, -[840.08 --> 840.26] Lord, -[840.36 --> 841.28] among the nations. -[841.28 --> 844.84] I will sing the praises of your name. -[844.84 --> 845.78] Have a great and what is God, -[845.84 --> 846.60] God bless you, -[846.68 --> 847.44] and will see you, -[847.56 --> 848.64] at the camp of my holiness. -[848.64 --> 849.84] The Lord saves me a kind of Zahlen, -[850.00 --> 852.14] are heeed us, -[852.22 --> 854.08] as well as I will study our построive -[854.08 --> 872.04] on their속 -[872.04 --> 881.62] I am the world who's shut down into darkness -[881.62 --> 887.90] Open my eyes at these days -[887.90 --> 895.16] Beauty that made his own adore you -[895.16 --> 901.42] All of the life spent with you -[901.42 --> 906.46] Here I am to worship -[906.46 --> 910.18] Here I am to bow down -[910.18 --> 916.66] Here I am to say that you're my God -[916.66 --> 919.98] You're altogether lovely -[919.98 --> 923.40] Altogether worthy -[923.40 --> 929.86] Altogether wonderful to me -[929.86 --> 938.36] Have a tasteful so highly exalted -[938.36 --> 943.90] Glorious in heaven above -[943.90 --> 951.62] Come where you came to the earth you created -[951.62 --> 958.12] All for the sake he came home -[958.12 --> 963.24] Here I am to worship -[963.24 --> 967.00] Here I am to bow down -[967.00 --> 972.62] Here I am to say that you're my God -[972.62 --> 976.66] We're altogether loving -[976.66 --> 980.12] Altogether worthy -[980.12 --> 986.62] Altogether wonderful to me -[986.62 --> 991.08] And I'll never know -[991.08 --> 994.12] How much it comes -[994.12 --> 997.12] To see my sin -[997.12 --> 1000.62] Upon that throne -[1000.62 --> 1003.62] And I'll never know -[1003.62 --> 1007.12] How much it comes -[1007.12 --> 1010.62] To see my sin -[1010.62 --> 1011.16] To see my sin -[1011.16 --> 1015.62] Upon that cross -[1015.62 --> 1020.08] Here I am to worship -[1020.08 --> 1020.66] Here I am to worship -[1020.66 --> 1024.12] Here I am to bow down -[1024.12 --> 1030.58] Here I am to say that you're my God -[1030.58 --> 1033.58] You're altogether lovely -[1033.58 --> 1034.20] Altogether lovely -[1034.20 --> 1037.50] Altogether worthy -[1037.50 --> 1043.08] Altogether wonderful to me -[1043.08 --> 1056.06] I think I was so excited to hear everybody sing this morning that I don't even remember how we practiced that song -[1056.06 --> 1059.02] But it is wonderful to hear you all -[1059.02 --> 1062.64] Please join me in a prayer of compassion and assurance -[1062.64 --> 1067.24] Oh God we confess -[1067.24 --> 1070.86] That we are often attracted to false gods -[1070.86 --> 1073.58] And make sinful choices in life -[1073.58 --> 1077.14] We are vulnerable to many temptations -[1077.14 --> 1079.14] That can damage us -[1079.14 --> 1082.08] In ways that are not always obvious -[1082.08 --> 1084.42] Forgive us our sins -[1084.42 --> 1086.76] That draw us away from you -[1086.76 --> 1090.14] Restore us and clean our hearts -[1090.14 --> 1090.82] We pray -[1090.82 --> 1094.22] Dear God we are so thankful for the good news -[1094.22 --> 1097.92] That you Christ died for our sins and rose again -[1097.92 --> 1102.14] And that we who place our trust and faith in you alone -[1102.14 --> 1106.06] Are freed to live fully in the power of your grace -[1106.06 --> 1108.38] We thank you for your sacrifice -[1108.38 --> 1110.52] We thank you for your love -[1110.52 --> 1113.94] In the beautiful name of Jesus alone we pray -[1113.94 --> 1114.70] Amen -[1120.82 --> 1124.22] Through the word and the beginning -[1124.22 --> 1127.62] One will call the Lord -[1127.62 --> 1129.62] For the Lord -[1129.62 --> 1135.54] Through the word and the beginning -[1135.54 --> 1140.94] One will call the Lord -[1140.94 --> 1144.94] For the Lord -[1144.94 --> 1146.86] Through the word and the beginning -[1146.86 --> 1152.86] One will call the Lord -[1152.86 --> 1164.82] My love and the love and the Lord -[1164.82 --> 1166.06] From glory and creation -[1166.06 --> 1170.06] In the heart andagę -[1170.06 --> 1173.48] What a beautiful name it is. -[1173.70 --> 1177.00] What a beautiful name it is. -[1177.36 --> 1183.70] The name of Jesus Christ, my King. -[1183.70 --> 1187.86] What a beautiful name it is. -[1188.36 --> 1190.70] Nothing compares to this. -[1191.66 --> 1194.52] What a beautiful name it is. -[1194.78 --> 1197.94] The name of Jesus. -[1200.06 --> 1207.02] You didn't want heaven without us. -[1208.70 --> 1214.06] You didn't want heaven without us. -[1215.00 --> 1221.06] So Jesus, you brought heaven down. -[1223.06 --> 1227.06] Sin was greater, love was greater. -[1227.06 --> 1234.02] Sin was greater, what could celebrate us now. -[1234.02 --> 1240.98] What a wonderful name it is. -[1240.98 --> 1246.94] The name of Jesus Christ, my King. -[1247.94 --> 1250.94] What a wonderful name it is. -[1251.94 --> 1253.94] Nothing compares to this. -[1255.02 --> 1257.94] What a wonderful name it is. -[1257.94 --> 1261.22] The name of Jesus. -[1261.22 --> 1264.90] What a wonderful name it is. -[1264.90 --> 1268.10] The name of Jesus. -[1268.10 --> 1273.06] Death could not hold. -[1273.06 --> 1277.06] Death could not hold. -[1277.06 --> 1298.76] Death could not hold you. -[1298.76 --> 1301.76] The veil who are before you. -[1301.76 --> 1304.72] The silence of hope. -[1304.72 --> 1308.72] The silence of sin and grace. -[1308.72 --> 1311.86] The heavens are roaring. -[1311.86 --> 1315.54] The praise of your glory. -[1315.72 --> 1321.72] For you are raised to life again. -[1321.72 --> 1322.78] What a wonderful name it is. -[1322.78 --> 1325.20] You have no rival. -[1325.72 --> 1328.70] You have no evil. -[1329.66 --> 1335.68] Now and forever God you reign. -[1335.68 --> 1338.76] Yours is the kingdom. -[1339.72 --> 1342.20] Yours is the glory. -[1342.76 --> 1349.14] Yours is the name above all names. -[1349.14 --> 1362.30] What a powerful name it is, what a powerful name it is, the name of Jesus Christ I give. -[1362.30 --> 1369.30] What a powerful name it is, nothing can stand against. -[1370.34 --> 1376.54] What a powerful name it is, the name of Jesus. -[1376.54 --> 1390.44] You have no rival, you have no ego, now and forever God you reign. -[1390.44 --> 1403.84] Yours is the kingdom, yours is the glory, yours is the name above all names. -[1403.84 --> 1417.74] What a powerful name it is, what a powerful name it is, the name of Jesus Christ my King. -[1417.74 --> 1425.00] What a powerful name it is, nothing can stand against. -[1425.00 --> 1439.34] What a powerful name it is, what a powerful name it is, the name of Jesus. -[1439.34 --> 1446.96] What a powerful name it is, the name of Jesus. -[1446.96 --> 1457.96] What a powerful name it is, the name of Jesus. -[1457.96 --> 1462.96] What a powerful name it is, the name of Jesus Christ my King. -[1462.96 --> 1478.96] What a powerful name it is, the name of Jesus Christ my King. -[1478.96 --> 1483.96] The name of Jesus Christ my King. -[1483.96 --> 1488.96] What a powerful name it is, the name of Jesus Christ my King. -[1488.96 --> 1492.96] What a powerful name it is, the name of Jesus Christ my King. -[1492.96 --> 1504.96] The name of Jesus Christ my King. -[1504.96 --> 1508.96] The name of Jesus Christ my King. -[1508.96 --> 1515.96] This name of Jesus Christ my King. -[1515.96 --> 1527.54] Be thou my wisdom and thou my true word -[1527.54 --> 1536.70] I ever with thee and thou with me Lord -[1536.70 --> 1544.64] Thou my great Father, I my true Son -[1544.64 --> 1555.50] Thou with me dwelling and I with thee one -[1555.50 --> 1567.26] Witches I keep on your vain empty grace -[1567.26 --> 1575.12] Thou my inheritance, thou and always -[1575.12 --> 1585.12] Thou and thou only, first in my heart -[1585.12 --> 1594.98] High King of heaven, my treasure Thou art -[1594.98 --> 1605.98] High King of heaven, my victory won -[1605.98 --> 1615.84] May I reach heaven's joy, so bright heaven's light -[1615.84 --> 1624.84] Heart of my own heart, whatever befall -[1624.84 --> 1634.70] Till be thy vision, O ruler of all -[1634.70 --> 1647.52] You can be seated -[1647.52 --> 1652.92] As the worship team makes their way down -[1652.92 --> 1656.96] We are going to spend some time together as a community -[1656.96 --> 1660.80] Celebrating and recognizing God's faithfulness -[1660.80 --> 1664.92] As we have opportunity to administer the sacrament of baptism -[1664.92 --> 1668.82] To three of our littlest members -[1668.82 --> 1671.74] Now as we come to this, I want to be really clear -[1671.74 --> 1673.62] Right, as Reformed Christians -[1673.62 --> 1675.80] We do not believe that there's anything magical -[1675.80 --> 1679.82] About the water that we apply to the child -[1679.82 --> 1683.20] And yet, baptism is a mystery -[1683.20 --> 1686.72] Right, the water doesn't wash away original sin -[1686.72 --> 1688.08] Or save the child, right -[1688.08 --> 1692.22] Only Jesus' life, death, and resurrection does that -[1692.22 --> 1696.30] We believe that these little girls, beautiful as they are -[1696.30 --> 1698.06] Are sinful by nature -[1698.06 --> 1701.60] And the promises of God for the forgiveness of their sins -[1701.60 --> 1706.24] In life in the Holy Spirit are offered to them as well -[1706.24 --> 1709.96] We baptize infants not out of superstition -[1709.96 --> 1711.10] Or out of tradition -[1711.10 --> 1713.58] Or because we really like cute babies -[1713.58 --> 1714.70] Even though we do -[1714.70 --> 1718.76] We baptize infants because they are covenant children -[1718.76 --> 1723.14] And therefore should receive the sign of the covenant -[1723.14 --> 1725.84] Now in Genesis 15 -[1725.84 --> 1728.54] God made a covenant with Abraham -[1728.54 --> 1733.68] And the covenant was sealed in the sign of circumcision in Genesis 17 -[1733.68 --> 1736.58] And God promised to bless Abraham -[1736.58 --> 1740.76] Now for Abraham, that blessing meant two things in particular -[1740.76 --> 1744.34] Offspring, children, and land -[1744.34 --> 1748.32] But at the heart of the covenant was God's promise -[1748.32 --> 1752.04] That he would be a God to Abraham and his children -[1752.04 --> 1755.88] And so God cut a covenant into Israel's flesh -[1755.88 --> 1758.98] Carving out for himself a people -[1758.98 --> 1762.68] That people would be the light home -[1762.68 --> 1765.14] Back to God for all humanity -[1765.14 --> 1767.48] Now in the fullness of time -[1767.48 --> 1769.68] God sent his son, Jesus -[1769.68 --> 1772.76] As the fulfillment of that promise -[1772.76 --> 1775.58] And in his death on the cross -[1775.58 --> 1778.88] Our old self is dead and buried -[1778.88 --> 1780.46] And in his resurrection -[1780.46 --> 1783.18] We are raised into new life -[1783.18 --> 1787.00] And look forward to that glorious and ultimate new creation -[1787.00 --> 1791.04] When we are baptized in the name of the Father -[1791.04 --> 1793.12] And of the Son and of the Holy Spirit -[1793.12 --> 1797.28] The triune God seals our adoption as his children -[1797.28 --> 1801.00] And writes his name invisibly on our foreheads -[1801.00 --> 1802.62] Peter writes -[1802.62 --> 1804.58] You are a chosen people -[1804.58 --> 1806.40] A royal priesthood -[1806.40 --> 1807.54] A holy nation -[1807.54 --> 1809.40] A people belonging to God -[1809.40 --> 1811.08] Once you were not a people -[1811.08 --> 1814.46] But now you are the people of God -[1814.46 --> 1816.48] By baptism -[1816.48 --> 1819.40] We have a new covenant identity -[1819.40 --> 1821.66] In Jesus Christ -[1821.66 --> 1824.38] And so we come now -[1824.38 --> 1826.20] To administer the sacrament of baptism -[1826.20 --> 1828.62] Today on these three little girls -[1828.62 --> 1830.54] With the weight of church history -[1830.54 --> 1831.74] To encourage us -[1831.74 --> 1834.30] With the example of redemptive history -[1834.30 --> 1835.02] In the scriptures -[1835.02 --> 1837.32] To confirm our practice -[1837.32 --> 1841.44] We baptize in obedience to Christ's command -[1841.44 --> 1844.58] The sacrament that we are about to administer -[1844.58 --> 1846.40] Is a sign of inclusion -[1846.40 --> 1848.68] Into the covenant community -[1848.68 --> 1850.20] As circumcision was -[1850.20 --> 1852.42] And the water that we are about to sprinkle -[1852.42 --> 1854.34] Is a sign of the cleansing from sin -[1854.34 --> 1857.00] As the sprinkled blood of bulls and goats -[1857.00 --> 1858.26] In the Old Testament was -[1858.26 --> 1861.22] Today we pray -[1861.22 --> 1864.38] That Daphne, Hayden, and Esty -[1864.38 --> 1867.60] Will take advantage of all their covenant privileges -[1867.60 --> 1870.18] That they will acknowledge her Lord -[1870.18 --> 1872.14] All the days of her life -[1872.14 --> 1873.10] And by faith -[1873.10 --> 1876.38] That each will make these promises her own -[1876.38 --> 1879.76] Dan and Ismay -[1879.76 --> 1881.44] Brandon and Savannah -[1881.44 --> 1882.72] And Dan and Rebecca -[1882.72 --> 1885.30] Since you have presented your children for baptism -[1885.30 --> 1887.62] We're going to ask you a few questions -[1887.62 --> 1888.84] Do you mind just standing -[1888.84 --> 1891.00] And you can stay where you are for this part -[1891.00 --> 1892.76] So that we can all see -[1892.76 --> 1895.64] You and where you are -[1895.64 --> 1896.74] Excellent -[1896.74 --> 1899.78] So I'm going to ask -[1899.78 --> 1901.16] A couple questions -[1901.16 --> 1902.52] And then I will come to each of you -[1902.52 --> 1904.72] For an answer together -[1904.72 --> 1906.66] I encourage you to respond with -[1906.66 --> 1907.22] We do -[1907.22 --> 1908.80] God helping us -[1908.80 --> 1912.02] Dan and Ismay -[1912.02 --> 1913.78] Brandon and Savannah -[1913.78 --> 1915.14] Dan and Rebecca -[1915.14 --> 1918.34] Since you have presented your children for baptism -[1918.34 --> 1919.70] We ask you the following questions -[1919.70 --> 1920.36] Before God -[1920.36 --> 1921.82] And before his people -[1921.82 --> 1923.92] Do you believe -[1923.92 --> 1924.96] That your children -[1924.96 --> 1926.26] Though sinful by nature -[1926.26 --> 1927.88] Are received by God -[1927.88 --> 1928.72] In Christ -[1928.72 --> 1930.04] As members of his covenant -[1930.04 --> 1931.00] And therefore -[1931.00 --> 1932.44] Ought to be baptized -[1932.44 --> 1934.80] And do you promise -[1934.80 --> 1936.52] In reliance on the Holy Spirit -[1936.52 --> 1938.62] And with the help of this Christian community -[1938.62 --> 1940.54] To do all in your power -[1940.54 --> 1941.96] To instruct these girls -[1941.96 --> 1943.40] And all your children -[1943.40 --> 1945.16] In the Christian faith -[1945.16 --> 1946.28] And to lead them -[1946.28 --> 1947.36] By your example -[1947.36 --> 1948.46] Into the life -[1948.46 --> 1950.32] Of Christian discipleship -[1950.32 --> 1952.12] Dan and Ismay -[1952.12 --> 1953.08] What is your answer? -[1953.08 --> 1957.16] Dan and Rebecca -[1957.16 --> 1958.20] What is your answer? -[1961.46 --> 1962.20] Brandon and Sav -[1962.20 --> 1963.18] What is your answer? -[1965.40 --> 1965.82] Amen -[1965.82 --> 1968.86] Our Lord Jesus said -[1968.86 --> 1969.84] Let the little children -[1969.84 --> 1970.62] Come to me -[1970.62 --> 1972.12] And do not hinder them -[1972.12 --> 1973.64] For the kingdom of God -[1973.64 --> 1974.80] Belongs to such -[1974.80 --> 1975.80] As these -[1975.80 --> 1976.80] And so I'm going to invite -[1976.80 --> 1977.98] You guys to come up -[1977.98 --> 1980.00] And then just sort of -[1980.00 --> 1981.56] Start over here -[1981.56 --> 1982.44] We'll get you to come in -[1982.44 --> 1983.64] And while they're coming up -[1983.64 --> 1985.52] I understand it's your tradition -[1985.52 --> 1986.38] But even if it wasn't -[1986.38 --> 1987.16] It's my tradition -[1987.16 --> 1988.22] And so we're going to do it anyway -[1988.22 --> 1989.54] Little kids -[1989.54 --> 1990.40] And young at heart -[1990.40 --> 1992.22] If you would like to be part -[1992.22 --> 1993.32] Of this experience -[1993.32 --> 1994.12] Or if you would like to -[1994.12 --> 1995.30] Join us up front -[1995.30 --> 1996.18] So that you can see -[1996.18 --> 1996.90] What's going on -[1996.90 --> 1997.64] I'm going to invite you -[1997.64 --> 1998.58] To come up to the front -[1998.58 --> 1999.32] And just kind of take -[1999.32 --> 2000.14] This space -[2000.14 --> 2001.34] Right here -[2001.34 --> 2002.72] Eventually this will shift -[2002.72 --> 2003.16] Into our -[2003.16 --> 2004.84] Kids blessing as well -[2004.84 --> 2006.12] So this is just a great time -[2006.12 --> 2007.90] To make your way forward -[2007.90 --> 2010.78] Eden lead the charge -[2010.78 --> 2013.60] Thank you -[2013.60 --> 2016.80] Nora good -[2016.80 --> 2019.70] The rest of you -[2019.70 --> 2020.94] Whose names I don't yet know -[2020.94 --> 2023.32] Okay you're a little far away -[2023.32 --> 2024.60] I want you to get wet -[2024.60 --> 2025.44] So come close -[2025.44 --> 2029.60] There you go -[2029.60 --> 2034.10] So guys up front -[2034.10 --> 2035.96] And guys and girls -[2035.96 --> 2036.72] In the back -[2036.72 --> 2038.94] We're going to -[2038.94 --> 2040.12] Take this water -[2040.12 --> 2041.94] And we are going to -[2041.94 --> 2043.44] Baptize these three girls -[2043.44 --> 2046.28] And with this water -[2046.28 --> 2046.94] We are -[2046.94 --> 2048.54] Giving a picture -[2048.54 --> 2050.06] And a seal -[2050.06 --> 2051.56] Of God's promise -[2051.56 --> 2052.54] To them -[2052.54 --> 2054.28] And you guys -[2054.28 --> 2054.82] In a moment -[2054.82 --> 2055.68] Are going to be part -[2055.68 --> 2056.38] Of that picture -[2056.38 --> 2057.68] As well -[2057.68 --> 2061.56] You guys are first -[2061.56 --> 2062.70] Why don't you come up first -[2062.70 --> 2063.20] Come on in -[2063.20 --> 2071.06] Hayden -[2071.06 --> 2072.58] Lexi -[2072.58 --> 2073.86] Muller -[2073.86 --> 2075.76] I baptize you -[2075.76 --> 2076.60] In the name of the Father -[2076.60 --> 2079.32] And of the Son -[2079.32 --> 2082.38] And of the Holy Spirit -[2082.38 --> 2084.34] Amen -[2084.34 --> 2096.30] Just switch out -[2096.30 --> 2097.52] With whoever is next in line -[2097.52 --> 2103.34] This one right -[2103.34 --> 2108.44] Daphne -[2108.44 --> 2112.06] I'll baptize you -[2112.06 --> 2112.86] In the name of the Father -[2112.86 --> 2116.02] And of the Son -[2116.02 --> 2120.08] And of the Holy Spirit -[2120.08 --> 2121.92] Amen -[2121.92 --> 2122.08] Amen -[2122.08 --> 2122.12] Amen -[2122.12 --> 2122.14] Amen -[2122.14 --> 2122.20] Amen -[2122.20 --> 2122.24] Amen -[2122.24 --> 2122.28] Amen -[2122.28 --> 2123.24] Amen -[2123.24 --> 2124.24] Amen -[2124.24 --> 2126.24] Amen -[2126.24 --> 2135.24] Amen -[2142.06 --> 2144.24] Amen -[2144.24 --> 2146.24] Amen -[2146.24 --> 2148.24] Amen -[2148.24 --> 2148.60] Esther -[2148.60 --> 2150.16] And -[2150.16 --> 2151.74] I baptize you -[2151.74 --> 2152.58] In the name of the Father -[2152.58 --> 2155.02] And of the Son -[2155.02 --> 2158.02] And of the Holy Spirit -[2158.02 --> 2159.52] Amen -[2159.52 --> 2159.66] Amen -[2159.66 --> 2163.66] Amen -[2163.66 --> 2164.24] Amen -[2164.24 --> 2165.24] Amen -[2165.24 --> 2166.24] Amen -[2166.24 --> 2167.24] Amen -[2167.24 --> 2168.24] Amen -[2168.24 --> 2168.30] Amen -[2168.30 --> 2168.36] Amen -[2172.06 --> 2173.12] Dan just said -[2173.12 --> 2173.76] She likes it -[2173.76 --> 2175.44] Which is good -[2175.44 --> 2176.34] They did so well -[2176.34 --> 2179.28] Normally I'm fighting -[2179.28 --> 2180.28] Screaming babies -[2180.28 --> 2181.28] Excellent -[2181.28 --> 2182.96] Okay -[2182.96 --> 2183.48] Now -[2183.48 --> 2185.10] With them standing up here -[2185.10 --> 2186.84] We have an opportunity -[2186.84 --> 2188.58] To give our blessing -[2188.58 --> 2189.86] And support to them -[2189.86 --> 2190.82] As well -[2190.82 --> 2192.04] And so I'm going to ask you -[2192.04 --> 2193.56] As representing -[2193.56 --> 2194.76] The body of believers -[2194.76 --> 2195.94] The church of Jesus Christ -[2195.94 --> 2196.72] Whether you are here -[2196.72 --> 2198.02] Or if you are at home -[2198.02 --> 2200.40] To answer this following question -[2200.40 --> 2202.12] Encourage you to respond -[2202.12 --> 2202.56] As well -[2202.56 --> 2202.86] With -[2202.86 --> 2203.44] We do -[2203.44 --> 2205.02] God helping us -[2205.02 --> 2206.40] And so church -[2206.40 --> 2207.04] Family -[2207.04 --> 2208.76] Of Jesus Christ -[2208.76 --> 2209.88] Do you promise -[2209.88 --> 2210.44] To love -[2210.44 --> 2211.00] And encourage -[2211.00 --> 2211.68] And support -[2211.68 --> 2212.50] Daphne -[2212.50 --> 2213.30] Hayden -[2213.30 --> 2214.10] Esty -[2214.10 --> 2215.20] And their families -[2215.20 --> 2216.52] By teaching them -[2216.52 --> 2217.16] The gospel -[2217.16 --> 2218.32] Of God's love -[2218.32 --> 2219.74] By being an example -[2219.74 --> 2220.84] Of Christian faith -[2220.84 --> 2221.54] And character -[2221.54 --> 2222.66] And by giving -[2222.66 --> 2223.74] Strong support -[2223.74 --> 2225.90] To their families -[2225.90 --> 2227.94] As God's family -[2227.94 --> 2228.96] In fellowship -[2228.96 --> 2229.78] Prayer -[2229.78 --> 2230.92] And service -[2230.92 --> 2231.94] What is your answer? -[2235.08 --> 2235.64] Amen -[2235.64 --> 2238.14] I'm going to -[2238.14 --> 2239.46] Offer a prayer -[2239.46 --> 2240.20] Of blessing -[2240.20 --> 2241.16] Over them -[2241.16 --> 2242.06] And as we do this -[2242.06 --> 2243.16] I'm going to invite you all -[2243.16 --> 2244.16] Just hold your hands out -[2244.16 --> 2245.20] As we -[2245.20 --> 2246.54] Offer a blessing -[2246.54 --> 2247.40] To them -[2247.40 --> 2251.80] Daphne -[2251.80 --> 2253.24] Hayden -[2253.24 --> 2254.64] And Esther -[2254.64 --> 2256.96] The Lord bless you -[2256.96 --> 2258.38] And keep you -[2258.38 --> 2260.12] The Lord make his face -[2260.12 --> 2260.96] To shine upon you -[2260.96 --> 2262.36] And be gracious to you -[2262.36 --> 2264.04] The Lord turn his face -[2264.04 --> 2264.72] Toward you -[2264.72 --> 2265.76] And give you -[2265.76 --> 2267.50] His peace -[2267.50 --> 2270.08] In this way -[2270.08 --> 2271.16] And with these words -[2271.16 --> 2272.52] The Lord puts his name -[2272.52 --> 2273.64] On our children -[2273.64 --> 2274.76] And makes them -[2274.76 --> 2275.86] His own -[2275.86 --> 2278.16] Holy Father -[2278.16 --> 2280.00] Bless their journeys -[2280.00 --> 2280.84] Of faith -[2280.84 --> 2283.12] Formed in you -[2283.12 --> 2285.58] As you have been -[2285.58 --> 2286.70] Faithful in the past -[2286.70 --> 2288.34] We long for your -[2288.34 --> 2288.86] Faithfulness -[2288.86 --> 2289.82] Into the future -[2289.82 --> 2291.18] And so may we -[2291.18 --> 2292.06] As a family -[2292.06 --> 2292.52] Together -[2292.52 --> 2293.86] See the day -[2293.86 --> 2294.64] Where each one -[2294.64 --> 2295.36] Of these girls -[2295.36 --> 2296.42] Takes this faith -[2296.42 --> 2297.44] Held out to them -[2297.44 --> 2298.62] And promise this morning -[2298.62 --> 2300.34] May they make it -[2300.34 --> 2300.76] Their own -[2300.76 --> 2303.10] And we can celebrate -[2303.10 --> 2303.90] With them -[2303.90 --> 2305.80] Your call -[2305.80 --> 2306.94] On their lives -[2306.94 --> 2307.84] And your grace -[2307.84 --> 2309.14] Made manifest -[2309.14 --> 2310.50] In all that they do -[2310.50 --> 2313.04] Trusting in you -[2313.04 --> 2313.70] Lord God -[2313.70 --> 2314.94] We pray all this -[2314.94 --> 2315.86] In Jesus -[2315.86 --> 2316.68] Holy -[2316.68 --> 2317.54] Name -[2317.54 --> 2319.06] Amen -[2319.06 --> 2322.58] I'm going to invite -[2322.58 --> 2322.94] Ken -[2322.94 --> 2324.10] To come to the front -[2324.10 --> 2325.38] Ken is an elder here -[2325.38 --> 2326.18] He's going to -[2326.18 --> 2326.94] Give each of you -[2326.94 --> 2327.64] A gift -[2327.64 --> 2328.12] And then once -[2328.12 --> 2328.90] Ken has given you -[2328.90 --> 2329.28] Your gift -[2329.28 --> 2330.50] You can return -[2330.50 --> 2331.54] To your seats -[2331.54 --> 2332.86] Kids who are up here -[2332.86 --> 2333.68] For the kids blessing -[2333.68 --> 2334.50] You can go back -[2334.50 --> 2334.94] To your parents -[2334.94 --> 2335.36] If you want -[2335.36 --> 2335.98] Or you can just -[2335.98 --> 2336.74] Shift over here -[2336.74 --> 2337.74] And sing up at the front -[2337.74 --> 2338.38] Because we're going to -[2338.38 --> 2339.34] Do the blessing -[2339.34 --> 2340.14] From up here -[2340.14 --> 2341.86] In just a moment as well -[2357.86 --> 2358.86] Hi -[2358.90 --> 2365.62] You can go to your -[2365.62 --> 2366.62] Sing a song -[2366.62 --> 2381.78] Welcome to standing -[2381.78 --> 2389.54] Field of the sale -[2389.54 --> 2402.86] Come, Thou fount of every blessing -[2402.86 --> 2408.30] Tune my heart to sing Thy grace -[2408.30 --> 2413.84] Streams of mercy never ceasing -[2413.84 --> 2419.24] Call for songs of love and praise -[2419.24 --> 2424.86] Teach me to summon, love you soothe -[2424.86 --> 2430.24] Sung by fading tongues above -[2430.24 --> 2436.00] Praise the mountain fixed upon it -[2436.00 --> 2441.32] Round of blood redeeming God -[2449.24 --> 2454.86] Here I raise my heaven eater -[2454.86 --> 2460.24] Hither by Thy help I come -[2460.24 --> 2465.86] And I hope by Thy good pleasure -[2465.86 --> 2471.06] Save me to arrive at home -[2471.06 --> 2476.68] Jesus thought we were not stranger -[2476.68 --> 2482.32] Wandering from the fold of God -[2482.32 --> 2487.68] Be to rescue, be from danger -[2487.68 --> 2493.06] Interpose His precious blood -[2493.06 --> 2506.06] Oh, to grace how great a debtor -[2506.06 --> 2512.06] Daily I'm not strained to fear -[2512.06 --> 2517.68] Let Thy goodness, Thy love better -[2517.68 --> 2523.06] Find my wandering heart to be -[2523.06 --> 2528.82] Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it -[2528.82 --> 2533.68] Prone to leave the God I love -[2533.68 --> 2536.30] Here's my heart, Lord -[2536.30 --> 2539.30] Take and steal it -[2539.30 --> 2542.68] Steal it for Thy courts -[2542.68 --> 2546.68] Above all else -[2546.68 --> 2552.68] I adore Your name -[2552.68 --> 2557.68] Above all else -[2557.68 --> 2563.68] Tune my heart to sing Your praise -[2563.68 --> 2569.68] Above all else -[2569.68 --> 2574.68] I adore Your name -[2574.68 --> 2579.68] Above all else -[2579.68 --> 2585.68] Tune my heart to sing Your praise -[2585.68 --> 2591.68] Above all else -[2591.68 --> 2595.68] I adore Your name -[2595.68 --> 2601.68] Above all else -[2601.68 --> 2608.68] Tune my heart to sing Your praise -[2608.68 --> 2612.68] Above all else -[2612.68 --> 2616.68] I adore Your name -[2616.68 --> 2622.68] Above all else -[2622.68 --> 2626.68] Tune my heart to sing Your praise -[2626.68 --> 2627.68] E beard -[2627.68 --> 2628.68] つ č Vivi -[2628.68 --> 2629.68] conoce -[2629.68 --> 2638.68] praising your praise -[2638.68 --> 2639.68] Knowing His fate -[2639.68 --> 2640.68] The highest praise -[2640.68 --> 2641.68] Neribah -[2641.68 --> 2648.68] 나올 -[2648.68 --> 2650.68] Employee -[2650.68 --> 2665.22] Let thy goodness like a feather -[2665.22 --> 2670.72] Find my wandering heart to thee -[2670.72 --> 2676.34] Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it -[2676.34 --> 2681.12] Prone to be the God I love -[2681.12 --> 2687.10] Here's my heart, Lord, drink and seal it -[2687.10 --> 2691.82] Seal it for the courts above -[2691.82 --> 2713.48] Okay, as you are being seated, we're going to invite the kids back up to the front here for the kids' blessing. -[2713.48 --> 2725.24] Now, if you're visiting with us this morning, what that means is we have kids come up to the front and those who are aged three to kindergarten are then invited to go out to children's worship time. -[2726.28 --> 2730.96] We're going to let you decide if that means going into kindergarten or just having finished kindergarten. -[2731.14 --> 2731.88] That's up to you. -[2731.88 --> 2741.56] If you are visiting with us and you didn't have a chance to sign your kids in to children's worship time, please, as a parent or guardian, go out with them and then Nikki will be back there. -[2741.66 --> 2743.72] She will sign your children in. -[2743.98 --> 2746.60] That way we can make sure you get the right kids back. -[2746.78 --> 2750.58] And if you don't sign them in, you might take one of mine home so I can have the afternoon off. -[2752.62 --> 2753.80] Oh, there it is. -[2754.60 --> 2756.52] Eight going on 18, I roll. -[2757.12 --> 2758.56] It's my job to embarrass you. -[2758.56 --> 2764.10] Okay, guys, we're going to do the children's blessing after I pray for you. -[2764.16 --> 2765.08] Do you remember how we do that? -[2766.12 --> 2766.96] How do we do that? -[2766.98 --> 2768.16] Because this is my first time leading it. -[2768.74 --> 2770.02] We start with our hands like this. -[2770.82 --> 2772.88] And then we say, the Lord be with you. -[2772.98 --> 2774.72] And then they say something to us, right? -[2774.82 --> 2775.68] Do we know what they say? -[2776.68 --> 2777.82] What do they say, Ruby? -[2782.60 --> 2783.84] And also with you. -[2783.92 --> 2784.82] Okay, did you hear that? -[2785.68 --> 2787.94] Ruby wants you to say, and also with you. -[2788.56 --> 2791.14] All right, so I'm going to pray and then I'm going to invite you all to stand. -[2791.20 --> 2791.96] Let's pray together. -[2795.00 --> 2802.02] Heavenly Father, as our younger members go out to worship, we pray that they would encounter you. -[2803.12 --> 2804.96] Stir their love for you. -[2805.66 --> 2811.36] May they see you in worship together, even as we here worship you. -[2811.36 --> 2814.42] Go with us and with them in Jesus' name. -[2815.12 --> 2815.34] Amen. -[2817.08 --> 2818.44] All right, should we ask them all to stand? -[2819.22 --> 2820.32] Say, please stand. -[2821.62 --> 2821.94] Yeah. -[2823.62 --> 2825.24] All right, so we face them, right? -[2826.68 --> 2828.12] And then we say together, -[2829.42 --> 2831.12] The Lord be with you. -[2832.18 --> 2833.62] And also with you. -[2833.62 --> 2834.46] Amen. -[2834.84 --> 2839.46] All right, if you're going to go off to children's worship time, now is the time to do that. -[2839.76 --> 2839.86] Okay. -[2843.66 --> 2845.58] And then deacon. -[2845.72 --> 2846.22] Thanks, Clem. -[2846.22 --> 2867.32] Hello. -[2867.70 --> 2868.44] Oh, there we go. -[2869.34 --> 2870.14] Good morning, everyone. -[2870.14 --> 2873.24] It is now time for our tithes and offerings. -[2873.24 --> 2877.22] Good morning. -[2878.22 --> 2884.68] The first offering today is for Langley Emanuel, its ministries and ongoing costs. -[2885.62 --> 2893.62] The second offering is for NAME, North American Indigenous Ministries. -[2894.84 --> 2897.92] NAME works with a culturally conscious approach, -[2897.92 --> 2903.16] looking to find a more respectful way to help First Nations people. -[2906.36 --> 2912.56] A greater number of NAME staff are First Nations Native believers. -[2913.90 --> 2919.08] And NAME would like to see more Native Christians in ministry and leadership positions. -[2919.08 --> 2926.84] Tim and Charity Johnson, whom we support directly as Project 627, -[2927.78 --> 2930.24] are in the Shushua Nation Reserve. -[2931.20 --> 2935.06] They consider the Native people their family and their community. -[2935.06 --> 2941.64] Christ came as a servant to this world and invites us also to become servants. -[2942.94 --> 2944.14] Interesting stat. -[2944.54 --> 2950.28] Marginalized people are mentioned in the Bible over 3,000 times. -[2951.24 --> 2952.84] And I didn't look them all up. -[2952.84 --> 2959.12] Next week's second offering is for Night Shift. -[2959.78 --> 2966.04] This is an outreach ministry in Surrey for people in poverty and those with addictions. -[2968.80 --> 2975.42] The Bible verse today is from Hagar, chapter 10, verse 7 to 8. -[2975.80 --> 2978.20] This is what the Lord Almighty says. -[2979.10 --> 2981.34] Give careful thought to your ways. -[2981.34 --> 2987.52] Go up into the mountains and bring down timber and build by house, -[2987.82 --> 2992.00] so that I may take pleasure in it and be honored. -[2998.28 --> 3001.96] We're just doing one bag today, so everything goes in one bag. -[3002.38 --> 3005.44] And you have to mark the budget separately. -[3011.34 --> 3041.32] We're just doing one bag. -[3041.34 --> 3042.14] Thank you. -[3042.14 --> 3044.64] There's lot of socialgliches over here. -[3044.64 --> 3045.42] Very long snails are talking to the people trying to hit, -[3045.60 --> 3046.46] so everything goes in one bag. -[3046.46 --> 3047.72] Amazing blasphemie is Dinah, Avengers' mother, -[3047.72 --> 3048.34] and that i might worship the family and family. -[3048.50 --> 3050.82] We are all grateful for that. -[3050.82 --> 3053.68] Pleaseizinания comunic bakın iv. -[3058.20 --> 3060.74] We're just investing Shushua Nationweder. -[3060.90 --> 3062.52] GreatШ97oda. -[3063.20 --> 3064.16] You go to Ronald. -[3064.16 --> 3065.84] We're all living in the city of thànhilına. -[3065.84 --> 3066.86] You can the Lord Mundy is won't rencoriously. -[3066.86 --> 3068.00] Happy Lain fulfilled in the summer. -[3068.00 --> 3068.88] We're glad that you're working. -[3068.88 --> 3070.88] Amen. -[3098.88 --> 3100.88] Amen. -[3128.88 --> 3130.88] Amen. -[3130.88 --> 3132.88] Amen. -[3132.88 --> 3134.88] Amen. -[3134.88 --> 3136.88] Amen. -[3136.88 --> 3140.88] Amen. -[3140.88 --> 3142.88] Amen. -[3142.88 --> 3144.88] Amen. -[3144.88 --> 3146.88] Good morning, everybody. -[3146.88 --> 3150.88] I'm going to lead you all in congregational prayer. -[3150.88 --> 3154.88] Before I do that, though, I was slipped a piece of paper. -[3154.88 --> 3162.88] And I don't know if you guys have ever had this, so I'll, I don't know, talk to a buddy or whatever, and they'll be like, so-and-so had a baby. -[3162.88 --> 3163.88] And then I'll be like, cool. -[3163.88 --> 3165.88] So I'll say to my wife, so-and-so had a baby. -[3165.88 --> 3167.88] And she'll say, well, what was the name? -[3167.88 --> 3168.88] I don't know. -[3168.88 --> 3170.88] And what did it weigh? -[3170.88 --> 3171.88] I don't know. -[3171.88 --> 3172.88] Was it a boy or a girl? -[3172.88 --> 3173.88] I don't know. -[3173.88 --> 3175.88] Anyways, so we have all the details. -[3175.88 --> 3181.88] David and Sheila Skipper were blessed with a healthy baby boy on July 16th. -[3181.88 --> 3184.88] His name is Dawson Arthur. -[3184.88 --> 3187.88] Four pounds, nine ounces. -[3187.88 --> 3190.88] Mother and baby are still in hospital, but are doing well. -[3190.88 --> 3193.88] So, there we go. -[3193.88 --> 3199.88] Yeah, may I lead you in prayer. -[3199.88 --> 3209.88] Merciful God and Heavenly Father, praise be to your holy name, the God of heaven and earth, the God of the Bible, Yahweh. -[3209.88 --> 3212.88] Father, we thank you for allowing us to come here. -[3212.88 --> 3217.88] And thank you that all the restrictions have been lifted from us gathering together to worship you. -[3217.88 --> 3224.88] Today is a day set aside to worship you, to come together as your people and be fed with your spirit. -[3224.88 --> 3228.88] Father, we bring before you our sins, our imperfections. -[3228.88 --> 3230.88] These things can weigh us down. -[3230.88 --> 3235.88] They can make us feel trapped, perhaps unworthy or just simply lost. -[3235.88 --> 3242.88] It can never be said enough or spoken enough about the gift of Jesus Christ to take away the sins of the world. -[3242.88 --> 3250.88] And so, Father, we call upon you to forgive us through your Son, Jesus Christ, and allow us to live in the joy and freedom of forgiveness. -[3250.88 --> 3260.88] We also bring before you our hurts and our pains, the things that we suffer in this life, and the struggles that we can experience day to day. -[3260.88 --> 3264.88] We pray for Joanne and Willie Miles. -[3264.88 --> 3266.88] Last week, they lost their son, Mike. -[3266.88 --> 3270.88] And we know that this is a particularly difficult thing. -[3270.88 --> 3274.88] Every parent's worst fear is to lose a child. -[3274.88 --> 3278.88] And for some, that is a reality. -[3278.88 --> 3287.88] Father, for them and for everyone who has ever lost a child, we pray for your peace to sustain all of them, -[3287.88 --> 3291.88] and especially Joanne and Willie Miles' family during this time. -[3291.88 --> 3295.88] We also pray that you watch over Willie in his physical health as well. -[3295.88 --> 3299.88] We thank you that he is home from the hospital after suffering a collapsed lung, -[3299.88 --> 3303.88] and we ask for healing and strength as he recovers. -[3303.88 --> 3308.88] We pray for Benita Smith, who suffered a relatively minor heart attack this past Tuesday. -[3308.88 --> 3314.88] We pray for the doctors and nurses who care for her, and we pray that you will grant her a full recovery. -[3314.88 --> 3319.88] We pray for those who have experienced health issues due to the extreme heat we've been having. -[3319.88 --> 3324.88] Watch over the elderly and those vulnerable to these types of situations. -[3324.88 --> 3331.88] We ask you to continue to be near all those who are shut in and can't make it out to the worship services. -[3331.88 --> 3337.88] May we as a church family reach out to those people so they can experience the love of Christ through us. -[3337.88 --> 3341.88] We pray for all those who are being affected by the fires burning in our province. -[3341.88 --> 3344.88] Be with all the men and women who are fighting these fires. -[3344.88 --> 3349.88] And we also pray for some rain that will help put the fires out. -[3349.88 --> 3354.88] Father, while there is much hurt and suffering, we can also experience much joy. -[3354.88 --> 3359.88] And so we are thankful to you for all the good and wonderful things that you allow us to experience. -[3359.88 --> 3364.88] We give thanks with Daniel and Ismay Howling, Brandon and Savannah Muller, and Dan and Rebecca Pullman, -[3364.88 --> 3368.88] as their daughters Daphne, Hayden, and Esther have been baptized here this morning. -[3368.88 --> 3375.88] We pray for these families and for our church family as we promise to encourage and support them as they raise their children, -[3375.88 --> 3378.88] teaching them to love and serve you. -[3378.88 --> 3381.88] Father, be with all the families in our church. -[3381.88 --> 3384.88] Keep our marriages strong. Keep our parents diligent. -[3384.88 --> 3388.88] Being in a marriage, being parents, it takes a lot of work and effort. -[3388.88 --> 3393.88] And may we constantly be in prayer seeking strength, help, and wisdom from you in all these things. -[3393.88 --> 3397.88] We continue to pray and also thank you for this church here in the church. -[3397.88 --> 3402.88] We thank you for this church here in Murrayville, for all the people who contribute faithfully to its operation, -[3402.88 --> 3407.88] for all the employees and volunteers on all kinds of committees and groups. -[3407.88 --> 3413.88] It takes a lot of people to run this church and we thank you for them and for your faithfulness to us. -[3413.88 --> 3420.88] Father, continue to be with us in this day and strengthen your servant Chris as he brings us your word. -[3420.88 --> 3425.88] May we all experience your nearness and faithfulness to us through your word. -[3425.88 --> 3428.88] We pray all these things in Jesus name. Amen. -[3428.88 --> 3429.88] Amen. -[3429.88 --> 3447.88] See that ladies and gentlemen Kevin's theater degree at work. -[3447.88 --> 3452.88] See that ladies and gentlemen Kevin's theater degree at work. -[3452.88 --> 3456.88] He complains about never having to use it. -[3456.88 --> 3466.88] In case you've missed it or if this is the first time that you are checking us out this summer, -[3466.88 --> 3470.88] we are answering your questions. -[3470.88 --> 3475.88] Last month we asked you to submit a bunch of questions and then in July and August, -[3475.88 --> 3479.88] we as pastors and leaders here are answering them together. -[3479.88 --> 3487.88] If you get the e-bulletin from our church, you can see the list of questions and the dates that we will be addressing them. -[3487.88 --> 3494.88] So you can be sure not to miss your question or our answers to the things that are burning holes in your minds -[3494.88 --> 3497.88] or that you're hungry to figure out together. -[3497.88 --> 3507.88] And just a reminder, the best way to engage this stuff and this time together each week is to keep it going at home, right? -[3507.88 --> 3510.88] Or in your care group or in your Bible study group. -[3510.88 --> 3512.88] Ask each other these questions. -[3512.88 --> 3516.88] Ask each other how you would answer these questions. -[3516.88 --> 3522.88] Now this week's question, I think, is really, really great. -[3522.88 --> 3529.88] The question is, is the cultural mandate to fill the earth and subdue it still applicable? -[3529.88 --> 3535.88] The question, when it was given to us, had a little tag appended to it saying, -[3535.88 --> 3542.88] climate change activists say this passage encourages development and destruction of habitat and shrinking glaciers -[3542.88 --> 3544.88] and super hot temperatures. -[3544.88 --> 3547.88] And on and on it goes. -[3547.88 --> 3551.88] Now off the top, let me say that I love this question. -[3551.88 --> 3555.88] I love it because it's not simple and it has layers. -[3555.88 --> 3560.88] And I love it because for some of you, hearing me ask that question is already a trap. -[3560.88 --> 3563.88] And some of you are already triggered because of the language that I used. -[3563.88 --> 3567.88] And I'll be honest, I don't mind stirring the pot now and again. -[3567.88 --> 3572.88] It's a question that has the potential to divide and to polarize. -[3572.88 --> 3577.88] Now I love this question also because the irony of asking and answering this question on a Sunday -[3577.88 --> 3581.88] where we just baptized three new baby girls is not lost on me. -[3581.88 --> 3585.88] Right? We are celebrating having babies. -[3585.88 --> 3592.88] On a day where we are asking the question about, is it still wise to have babies? -[3592.88 --> 3601.88] Now all of that together, I love this question because we can address it showing a better way. -[3601.88 --> 3607.88] Right? We can address it showing a way that refuses to be pigeonholed into simple categories -[3607.88 --> 3613.88] or a way that enters into the difficulty of this kind of conversation with integrity. -[3613.88 --> 3617.88] Without compromising core values or biblical truths. -[3617.88 --> 3622.88] All the while allowing for a range of applications of the answer. -[3622.88 --> 3627.88] And so, before I really even begin, I want you to hear that. -[3627.88 --> 3632.88] Right? There is a range of applications to the answer that I am going to give. -[3632.88 --> 3637.88] But I think there is a particularly narrow answer. -[3637.88 --> 3641.88] What I mean by that is I think that the answer that I give is compelling -[3641.88 --> 3643.88] and it is based on good biblical theology. -[3643.88 --> 3648.88] But how you then work it out in your life, that's where the diversity really will be. -[3648.88 --> 3652.88] And that's good. That's okay. -[3652.88 --> 3657.88] In fact, that's probably best for us here together. -[3657.88 --> 3663.88] Right? We can go from here to have more conversations and asking more questions. -[3663.88 --> 3666.88] And I love that about this too. -[3666.88 --> 3668.88] And so, let's dig in. -[3668.88 --> 3672.88] We're going to bounce around the Bible, but the first place we're going to go is Genesis 1. -[3672.88 --> 3676.88] And so, if you have a Bible and you want that handy, you can open it up. -[3676.88 --> 3679.88] Genesis 1. Genesis is the very first book of the Bible. -[3679.88 --> 3682.88] It's the easiest book to find when you don't have it on the screen. -[3682.88 --> 3689.88] If you don't have a Bible in your hand, find one on your phone or there's a few at the back that you can grab. -[3689.88 --> 3696.88] Now, is the cultural mandate still applicable to us as Christians? -[3696.88 --> 3700.88] Now, the first thing we have to address in answering that question is, -[3700.88 --> 3705.88] what on earth or in heaven, as the case may be, is the cultural mandate? -[3705.88 --> 3713.88] Now, the cultural mandate is what we call the commission that God gave Adam and Eve in the garden. -[3713.88 --> 3718.88] Right? In Genesis 1, you can read it. -[3718.88 --> 3721.88] We'll start at verse 27. -[3721.88 --> 3726.88] Genesis 1, verse 27. -[3726.88 --> 3731.88] So, God created mankind in his own image. -[3731.88 --> 3735.88] In the image of God, he created them. Male and female, he created them. -[3735.88 --> 3737.88] God blessed them and said to them, -[3737.88 --> 3741.88] Be fruitful and increase in number. -[3741.88 --> 3743.88] Fill the earth and subdue it. -[3743.88 --> 3746.88] Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds of the air -[3746.88 --> 3750.88] and over every living creature that moves on the ground. -[3750.88 --> 3766.88] This is the cultural mandate. -[3766.88 --> 3772.88] Be fruitful. Multiply. Fill the earth. Subdue it. Rule over it. -[3772.88 --> 3778.88] The old language there that you might be familiar with is to exercise dominion. -[3778.88 --> 3781.88] That's the cultural mandate. -[3781.88 --> 3790.88] Humans are commissioned by God to grow and spread and develop and learn and explore and craft and create. -[3790.88 --> 3798.88] Right? As God created order out of chaos, so too are we to explore the order and make sense of the chaos. -[3798.88 --> 3803.88] As God created, so too are we to procreate and recreate. Right? -[3803.88 --> 3806.88] To have kids and to have fun. -[3806.88 --> 3810.88] The cultural mandate is about families and it's about fun. -[3810.88 --> 3815.88] It's about art and culture. It's about musing and painting and theater and poetry. -[3815.88 --> 3817.88] It's about science and exploring. -[3817.88 --> 3823.88] It's about microbiology and quantum mechanics and astronomy and theoretical physics. -[3823.88 --> 3826.88] God creates and then he says, -[3826.88 --> 3834.88] Go and learn. Go into all the world and see all that I have made for you and done for you. -[3834.88 --> 3837.88] That's the cultural mandate. -[3837.88 --> 3846.88] But now, what about when there's 7.9 billion people in the world? -[3846.88 --> 3853.88] Estimates say by the end of 2025 we will cross that 8 billion threshold. -[3853.88 --> 3858.88] This is a finite planet with finite resources. -[3858.88 --> 3862.88] How does that change our understanding of the cultural mandate? -[3862.88 --> 3867.88] The question that was asked of us, right, makes specific reference to climate change. -[3867.88 --> 3870.88] And like I said, I get that for some of you that's a trigger. -[3870.88 --> 3876.88] But the reality of course is that the climate is changing. -[3876.88 --> 3878.88] That's demonstrable. -[3878.88 --> 3885.88] Now, how much is human caused or how much is singularly human responsibility? -[3885.88 --> 3891.88] Are there large scale cyclical patterns or do we have 10 years or 30 years or more? -[3891.88 --> 3896.88] Will one degree of rise be what brings the catastrophe or will it take two degrees of rise? -[3896.88 --> 3897.88] Right? -[3897.88 --> 3901.88] As some are saying, you can have all sorts of opinions on that. -[3901.88 --> 3906.88] And I'm happy to talk about that and the opinions on that with anybody later. -[3906.88 --> 3910.88] But we can say the climate is changing. -[3910.88 --> 3915.88] And we can say that humans have a responsibility in the face of that. -[3915.88 --> 3917.88] In fact, I'm going to return to this more at the end. -[3917.88 --> 3923.88] But it is the cultural mandate itself that tells us we have a responsibility in the face of all of that. -[3923.88 --> 3926.88] And so let me be really, really clear. -[3926.88 --> 3933.88] What you think about climate change doesn't ultimately matter for how Christians live responsibly in the world today, together, -[3933.88 --> 3936.88] and in the face of challenges that our species will face. -[3936.88 --> 3940.88] But I'm getting ahead of myself, so hang on to that idea. -[3940.88 --> 3941.88] We'll come back to it. -[3941.88 --> 3948.88] Because you see, there is a cultural conversation and reality that is at work here. -[3948.88 --> 3953.88] People are asking questions about climate change and family size. -[3953.88 --> 3960.88] People are asking questions about global population levels and individual responsibilities in the face of that. -[3960.88 --> 3965.88] The fact that this question was asked here isn't actually strange and it's not an anomaly. -[3965.88 --> 3968.88] It's part of the cultural discourse right now. -[3968.88 --> 3971.88] Let me make that point quickly. -[3971.88 --> 3976.88] There was an article written in Vox.com in 2019 that was called, -[3976.88 --> 3980.88] We Need to Talk About the Ethics of Having Children in a Warming World. -[3980.88 --> 3989.88] Now that article quotes AOC Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who's a Democratic representative for New York State in the U.S. -[3989.88 --> 3992.88] She's a bit of a pop culture celebrity. -[3992.88 --> 3995.88] Social media friends with Yagmeet Singh, for any of you who are interested in all of that. -[3995.88 --> 3997.88] She's quoted in that article to say, -[3997.88 --> 4002.88] Basically, there is scientific consensus that the lives of children are going to be very difficult. -[4002.88 --> 4006.88] And it does lead, I think, young people to have a legitimate question. -[4006.88 --> 4009.88] Is it okay to still have children? -[4009.88 --> 4010.88] End quote. -[4010.88 --> 4018.88] Similarly, in Vogue magazine, back in April of this year now, has an article titled, -[4018.88 --> 4022.88] Is Having a Baby in 2021 Pure Environmental Vandalism? -[4022.88 --> 4026.88] Now, regardless of your opinions on the matter, that's just good headline writing. -[4026.88 --> 4031.88] And to be clear, right, it's not just pop culture. -[4031.88 --> 4034.88] It's not just Vox.com or Vogue magazine. -[4034.88 --> 4040.88] In an article for Science Daily, with materials from the University of Arizona, -[4040.88 --> 4044.88] Alexis Blue asked the question, and this was written just a month ago, -[4044.88 --> 4048.88] Why is climate change driving some to skip having kids? -[4048.88 --> 4049.88] Right? -[4049.88 --> 4053.88] And there's a study behind that material that was published in March of 2021 -[4053.88 --> 4056.88] in the peer-reviewed journal, Population and Environment. -[4056.88 --> 4057.88] Right? -[4057.88 --> 4060.88] And that study titled, again, good writing, rather pithily, titled, -[4060.88 --> 4064.88] No Future, No Kids, No Kids, No Future. -[4064.88 --> 4070.88] But that study identified three reasons why people are holding off on having kids right now. -[4070.88 --> 4075.88] Now, that was named as overconsumption, and that's the problem of limited resources, right? -[4075.88 --> 4077.88] Food and water, right? -[4077.88 --> 4082.88] The problem of overpopulation, and the problem of an uncertain future, right? -[4082.88 --> 4088.88] The people surveyed and studied, and the reflections given here say, quote, -[4088.88 --> 4093.88] There's a sense of doom about the future if climate change continues unchecked, -[4093.88 --> 4097.88] and they wondered if they were doing something morally and ethically wrong -[4097.88 --> 4101.88] if they brought a child into the world with such an uncertain future. -[4101.88 --> 4108.88] So we have pop culture, we have sociological studies and psychological studies, and we have philosophers. -[4108.88 --> 4113.88] There is a philosopher by the name of Thomas Reeder who's from the Behrman Institute of Bioethics -[4113.88 --> 4121.88] at the prestigious John Hopkins University, and he is a proponent of what he calls small family ethics. -[4121.88 --> 4124.88] He says, quote, -[4124.88 --> 4126.88] Here's a provocative thought. -[4126.88 --> 4129.88] Maybe we should protect our kids by not having them. -[4130.88 --> 4132.88] End quote. -[4132.88 --> 4139.88] He goes on to argue that we can bring down the global fertility rate by even half a child on average. -[4139.88 --> 4140.88] Okay? -[4140.88 --> 4141.88] Numbers. -[4141.88 --> 4142.88] We're having children here. -[4142.88 --> 4144.88] Or halfing children. -[4144.88 --> 4147.88] By just a half a child, that could save us, he says. -[4147.88 --> 4148.88] Right? -[4148.88 --> 4151.88] To non-profits and social agencies. -[4151.88 --> 4157.88] Megan Kelman and Josephine Fororelli are founders of a non-profit called Conceivable Future. -[4157.88 --> 4163.88] Their point of view is that the climate crisis is a, quote, reproductive crisis. -[4163.88 --> 4172.88] And so all across the board, right, from the popular level in Vox.com to the academic peer-reviewed level to the philosophical level, -[4172.88 --> 4174.88] people are asking this question. -[4176.88 --> 4180.88] To be really honest, it's a question that I asked myself. -[4181.88 --> 4184.88] And that I wrestled with with Rachel when we were going to have kids. -[4185.88 --> 4186.88] Right? -[4186.88 --> 4188.88] I know this isn't just an out there question. -[4188.88 --> 4189.88] It's an in here question. -[4189.88 --> 4192.88] And I know that because it was an in here question. -[4195.88 --> 4196.88] And so it's worth asking. -[4198.88 --> 4199.88] And it's worth digging deep into. -[4201.88 --> 4208.88] Now before we dig too deeply, let me just give you a principle about decision making in the world. -[4209.88 --> 4215.88] And family planning in an age of climate change, in an age of increasing scarcity and rising global population populations, -[4215.88 --> 4218.88] is one of those decisions that you may have to make. -[4220.88 --> 4225.88] As a rule, we don't make decisions based on fear. -[4226.88 --> 4230.88] Christians aren't a people who react in fear. -[4231.88 --> 4233.88] Like the author of Hebrews says, -[4234.88 --> 4239.88] We do not belong to those who shrink back and are destroyed, but to those who have faith and are saved. -[4239.88 --> 4243.88] And this is how the psalmist puts it in Psalm 46. -[4244.88 --> 4245.88] He writes, -[4245.88 --> 4252.88] We will not fear. -[4252.88 --> 4253.88] Fear. -[4253.88 --> 4254.88] This is an interactive portion, okay? -[4254.88 --> 4255.88] I need you to get in here. -[4255.88 --> 4256.88] We will not fear. -[4256.88 --> 4261.88] Though the earth give way, though mountains fall into the heart of the sea, -[4261.88 --> 4264.88] though waters roar and foam, though the mountains quake with their surging, -[4265.88 --> 4267.88] we will not fear. -[4268.88 --> 4271.88] Even when sea levels rise, even when wildfires abound, -[4272.88 --> 4276.88] even when drought happens and famine comes, we will not fear. -[4276.88 --> 4281.88] There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear. -[4282.88 --> 4284.88] We know the love of God. -[4285.88 --> 4290.88] We know the God who loves, and the God who loves is the same as the God who created. -[4290.88 --> 4295.88] The God who loves is the God who is guiding all of history to his glorious ends. -[4295.88 --> 4302.88] For in him, Colossians says, all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, -[4302.88 --> 4308.88] whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities, all things have been created through him and for him. -[4308.88 --> 4313.88] He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. -[4314.88 --> 4316.88] Job cries out to God at the end of his long story, -[4316.88 --> 4322.88] I know that you can do all things that no purpose of yours can be thwarted. -[4323.88 --> 4328.88] We are not afraid, and we don't make decisions based on fear. -[4331.88 --> 4332.88] Someone should have said amen there. -[4333.88 --> 4337.88] Even if you struggle to believe that, preach it to yourself. -[4338.88 --> 4340.88] We are not afraid. Be strong and courageous. -[4341.88 --> 4343.88] Do not be afraid. Do not be discouraged. -[4343.88 --> 4346.88] The Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. -[4346.88 --> 4349.88] We are not afraid, and we don't make decisions based on fear. -[4350.88 --> 4352.88] But let me be really, really, really clear. -[4354.88 --> 4360.88] Not making decisions based on fear means we have to make them on something else. -[4361.88 --> 4363.88] Because we have to do something. -[4364.88 --> 4365.88] We can't just sit on the fence. -[4366.88 --> 4367.88] We have to make a decision. -[4367.88 --> 4374.88] What I want to say is that we make decisions based on faith in God and his word, -[4374.88 --> 4378.88] and based on the wisdom that he has given us. -[4379.88 --> 4382.88] Not fear, but faith and wisdom. -[4383.88 --> 4389.88] And you see, it is both faith and wisdom that calls us to action here. -[4389.88 --> 4393.88] In the face of climate realities, however you define them, -[4393.88 --> 4396.88] in the face of creation groaning, to use the language of the Bible, -[4396.88 --> 4399.88] faith and wisdom demand something from us. -[4399.88 --> 4401.88] You don't get to sit on the fence here. -[4402.88 --> 4405.88] You get to instead be stewards of what God has given us. -[4406.88 --> 4407.88] Right? -[4407.88 --> 4408.88] You see it now, or we're beginning to. -[4408.88 --> 4409.88] We're beginning to. -[4409.88 --> 4414.88] That's why I said that it actually doesn't matter what your opinion on climate change -[4414.88 --> 4416.88] or population level rise is. -[4417.88 --> 4420.88] What matters is that God has called you, -[4420.88 --> 4424.88] that God has commissioned you with the responsibility in the world -[4425.88 --> 4429.88] to care for it, to develop it, to manage it, and to direct it, and to steward it, -[4429.88 --> 4431.88] because it belongs to him. -[4432.88 --> 4435.88] He doesn't want you to live in fear of the unknown, -[4435.88 --> 4441.88] and he doesn't want you to sit idle by while human greed and pride make a mess of his very good world. -[4442.88 --> 4446.88] Our world belongs to God, and it is groaning under the weight of sin. -[4447.88 --> 4453.88] And Christians and the church are supposed to be the place and the people -[4454.88 --> 4458.88] where the power of sin, while still present in our lives, doesn't rule our lives, -[4459.88 --> 4460.88] doesn't define who we are. -[4461.88 --> 4464.88] Right? Pride isn't our principal force, but humility. -[4465.88 --> 4468.88] Greed doesn't define us, but grace. -[4468.88 --> 4473.88] You are created by God to share in his rule over the world. -[4474.88 --> 4477.88] You are created by God to subdue this world. -[4477.88 --> 4480.88] And that means we wrestle order out of chaos. -[4480.88 --> 4484.88] That means we push back against the darkness by bringing in the light. -[4484.88 --> 4490.88] That means we strive in stewardship to shape the world in line with God's creational design. -[4490.88 --> 4496.88] Even as we battle against powers and principalities and the rulers of this world. -[4497.88 --> 4500.88] Right? You see, the cultural mandate isn't the problem. -[4501.88 --> 4505.88] The cultural mandate is actually the solution to the problem. -[4506.88 --> 4511.88] Right? We need a generation of Christians who take up the call to be fruitful -[4511.88 --> 4516.88] and who take up the responsibility to subdue the disordered world seriously. -[4516.88 --> 4522.88] Right? This is actually a call for Christian scientists to be the solution to the climate problem. -[4522.88 --> 4527.88] Right? We need to be a generation of Christians who tackle the problem of population, -[4527.88 --> 4532.88] of wildfires, of drought, or famine with faith and wisdom. -[4534.88 --> 4541.88] Responding to God's call on their lives, maybe it will be one of these three girls who we baptized this morning, -[4541.88 --> 4546.88] who will become the scientist or the engineer or the artist or the creative who will change the world. -[4546.88 --> 4552.88] The cultural mandate requires us to be a people of faith and wisdom, -[4552.88 --> 4558.88] pursuing God's goodness and his good creation and his design. -[4558.88 --> 4563.88] Right? Far from being a license to use and abuse the creation, -[4563.88 --> 4568.88] Genesis 1 verse 28, the cultural mandate is our call, our commission, -[4568.88 --> 4574.88] to care for the world as God intended and as he calls us to do. -[4576.88 --> 4586.88] And so, we have families because strong, healthy Christian families are the foundation of a good society. -[4586.88 --> 4592.88] We have families because protecting the future matters and without kids there is no future. -[4592.88 --> 4602.88] And look, most of you know this already, but we need to hear it again. -[4602.88 --> 4610.88] For God so loved the world, the world that he gave his one and only son, -[4610.88 --> 4614.88] that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. -[4614.88 --> 4616.88] Right? Did you hear that? God loves the world. -[4616.88 --> 4620.88] He loves the world, this world, and not just the people in it. -[4620.88 --> 4624.88] Sometimes we like to make it smaller than it actually is, but the planet and the cosmos. -[4624.88 --> 4630.88] He loves the world so much that he became a part of it, that the transcendent God became imminent, -[4630.88 --> 4636.88] that the infinite became finite, that the spiritual took on flesh. -[4636.88 --> 4641.88] Jesus came and lived the life I should have lived and died the death that I deserve. -[4641.88 --> 4644.88] And because he was raised three days later, he has won the victory. -[4644.88 --> 4646.88] He has paid the price. -[4646.88 --> 4651.88] He has wrestled the world back from sin and Satan and it belongs to him. -[4651.88 --> 4655.88] He rules o'er all the earth. -[4655.88 --> 4657.88] One more time. Amen? -[4657.88 --> 4661.88] And we live in his rule. -[4661.88 --> 4664.88] We live out of his reign. -[4664.88 --> 4669.88] We live obedient to him and we live for him. -[4669.88 --> 4671.88] Right? -[4671.88 --> 4675.88] The truth of the matter is this. -[4675.88 --> 4678.88] There is a challenge in front of us. -[4678.88 --> 4683.88] And it doesn't matter whether we or you or who caused it. -[4683.88 --> 4686.88] It matters that we are called to address it. -[4686.88 --> 4688.88] That's up to us. -[4688.88 --> 4690.88] That's up to you. -[4690.88 --> 4697.88] And like I said before, how you address it is your work of application. -[4697.88 --> 4705.88] That we respond is exactly what the cultural mandate was given us to ensure. -[4705.88 --> 4710.88] And so, go and respond. -[4711.88 --> 4715.88] Go and do something. -[4715.88 --> 4716.88] Amen? -[4716.88 --> 4717.88] Let's pray together. -[4717.88 --> 4718.88] Let's pray together. -[4725.88 --> 4731.88] Holy God, send us out in the power of your name. -[4731.88 --> 4736.88] Send us out with the conviction of your commissioning. -[4736.88 --> 4739.88] To go and do. -[4739.88 --> 4741.88] To go and subdue. -[4741.88 --> 4745.88] To go and create and be creative. -[4745.88 --> 4747.88] To go and develop and discern. -[4747.88 --> 4752.88] To go and grow in our knowledge of you and of the world. -[4752.88 --> 4760.88] Go that we might go in the power of your spirit as your agents of change in the world. -[4760.88 --> 4775.88] Raise us up to be a generation of Christians who respond with integrity and intentionality to the call that you have placed on our lives. -[4775.88 --> 4778.88] In Jesus' name we pray. -[4778.88 --> 4779.88] Amen. -[4779.88 --> 4780.88] Amen. -[4782.88 --> 4784.88] Piano B therefore not besoin. -[4784.88 --> 4802.88] Piano B 봐オマエ suit -[4802.88 --> 4814.22] My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' good and righteousness. -[4815.80 --> 4828.22] I dare not trust the sweetest praise, but only trust in Jesus' name. -[4828.22 --> 4842.22] My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness. -[4844.70 --> 4855.22] I dare not trust the sweetest praise, but only trust in Jesus' name. -[4858.22 --> 4867.56] Christ alone, Lord as Lord, weak may strong. -[4867.80 --> 4874.22] In the Savior's love through the storm. -[4874.68 --> 4881.22] He is Lord, Lord of all. -[4881.22 --> 4897.22] When darkness seems to hide His face, I rest on His unchanging grace. -[4897.22 --> 4909.22] In every heart and stormy death, my anger holds for him to bear. -[4909.22 --> 4917.22] My anger holds for him to bear. -[4917.22 --> 4927.22] When the Lord, Lord of all, weak may strong. -[4927.22 --> 4934.36] In the Savior's love through the storm. -[4934.36 --> 4941.06] He is Lord, Lord of all. -[4941.06 --> 4951.06] When He shall come with trumpet sound. -[4951.06 --> 4958.06] Obey our land in Him, be found. -[4958.06 --> 4964.06] Dressed in His righteousness alone. -[4964.06 --> 4971.06] God will stand before the storm. -[4971.06 --> 4973.06] God will stand before the storm. -[4973.06 --> 4979.06] Christ alone, Father's stone. -[4979.06 --> 4985.06] Weak may strong in the Savior's love. -[4985.06 --> 4986.06] Through the storm. -[4986.06 --> 4988.06] Through the storm. -[4988.06 --> 4992.06] He is Lord, Lord of all. -[4992.06 --> 4993.06] Lord of all. -[4993.06 --> 4998.06] Lord of all. -[4998.06 --> 4999.06] Lord of all. -[4999.06 --> 5001.06] Corner alone. -[5001.06 --> 5002.06] Cornerstone. -[5002.06 --> 5003.06] Cornerstone. -[5003.06 --> 5004.06] Weak may strong. -[5004.06 --> 5007.06] In the Savior's love. -[5007.06 --> 5008.06] Through the storm. -[5008.06 --> 5022.30] In the Savior's love, through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[5022.30 --> 5040.32] As you go into this week, know that God Himself goes with you, and that you go not alone, -[5040.44 --> 5044.84] but in the power of the Spirit and in the fellowship of the saints. -[5044.84 --> 5048.70] These gathered here and the church throughout time and space. -[5048.70 --> 5055.62] Go with God's blessing, but also today, go with an invitation to stick around for fellowship afterwards. -[5055.84 --> 5061.56] Go with an invitation to congratulate the Howlings and the Pullmans and the Mullers. -[5062.06 --> 5064.62] Go with an invitation, maybe even to coffee. -[5064.74 --> 5068.00] I didn't check beforehand if that was done, but John, did we get coffee? -[5068.16 --> 5069.58] Thumbs up, so far so good. -[5070.64 --> 5071.16] Awesome. -[5071.76 --> 5073.92] Receive the blessing of our God. -[5073.92 --> 5079.48] May God go before you to prepare a way for you. -[5080.06 --> 5082.80] May God go behind you to guard you. -[5083.82 --> 5086.62] May God go beneath you to support you. -[5087.16 --> 5089.46] May God go beside you to befriend you. -[5089.80 --> 5092.12] Do not be afraid. -[5092.78 --> 5094.80] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5094.94 --> 5101.46] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5101.46 --> 5102.34] Amen. -[5102.34 --> 5104.40] All God's people said, Amen. -[5131.46 --> 5138.08] Lord bless you and keep you. -[5138.84 --> 5142.08] Make his face shine upon you. -[5142.50 --> 5150.72] Be gracious to the turn of his face toward you. -[5150.72 --> 5156.82] And give you peace. -[5156.82 --> 5166.58] Lord bless you and keep you. -[5167.38 --> 5170.70] Make his face shine upon you. -[5170.70 --> 5179.56] Be gracious to the turn of his face toward you. -[5180.26 --> 5185.76] And give you peace. -[5186.82 --> 5191.20] Amen. -[5211.42 --> 5211.64] Amen. -[5211.64 --> 5221.54] To the Lord and keep you -[5221.54 --> 5225.76] Make His face shine upon you -[5225.76 --> 5228.64] Be gracious to you -[5228.64 --> 5234.86] Lord, turn His face for you -[5234.86 --> 5240.96] And give you peace -[5240.96 --> 5255.10] Amen, amen, amen -[5255.10 --> 5267.82] Amen, amen, amen -[5270.96 --> 5286.96] May His favor be upon you -[5286.96 --> 5289.86] And a thousand generations -[5289.86 --> 5293.34] And your family and your children -[5293.34 --> 5296.54] And their children and their children -[5296.54 --> 5300.18] May His favor be upon you -[5300.18 --> 5303.12] For a thousand generations -[5303.12 --> 5305.96] And your family and your children -[5305.96 --> 5308.86] And their children and their children -[5308.86 --> 5313.18] And His presence goes before you -[5313.18 --> 5314.76] And behind you -[5314.76 --> 5316.40] And beside you -[5316.40 --> 5317.96] And around you -[5317.96 --> 5319.48] And between you -[5319.48 --> 5321.10] He is with you -[5321.10 --> 5322.74] He is with you -[5322.74 --> 5324.06] In the morning -[5324.06 --> 5325.68] In the evening -[5325.68 --> 5327.22] In your coming -[5327.22 --> 5328.82] And your going -[5328.82 --> 5329.96] In your weakness -[5330.48 --> 5332.28] And rejoicing -[5332.28 --> 5333.28] He is for you -[5333.28 --> 5335.28] He is for you -[5335.28 --> 5337.18] He is for you -[5337.18 --> 5338.66] He is for you -[5338.66 --> 5344.28] Amen, amen, amen -[5344.28 --> 5350.28] Amen, amen -[5350.28 --> 5370.66] Amen, amen, amen, amen -[5370.66 --> 5371.68] Amen. -[5395.46 --> 5397.26] Amen. -[5400.66 --> 5401.66] Amen. -[5430.66 --> 5431.66] Amen. -[5460.66 --> 5461.66] Amen. -[5490.66 --> 5491.66] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 2, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 2, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f82a9bb8d94356af0e98ed936a3309a389e1e85f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 2, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,80 +0,0 @@ -• Teens' church camp had a successful weekend -• Announcement about kids' camp in a week's time -• Need for volunteers to help set up for kids' camp -• Emanuel Food Bank drive starts next Sunday, July 9th -• Full bags will be returned on Saturday, July 15th with pancake breakfast and kids' fair -• Summer schedule change: children's worship time for preschoolers/kindergarteners -• Volunteer opportunities available for summer activities -• Discussion/recap of Synod 2023 to follow the service -• Worship and praise of God -• Declaration of God's goodness, love, and faithfulness -• Commitment to worship God with heart and strength -• Praise for Jesus as the name above every other name -• Acknowledgement that there is no one like God -• Request to be shown who God is and led in His love -• Building on God's love as a firm foundation -• Prayer of confession -• Sin and guilt, forgiveness through Jesus Christ -• Scriptural account of Christ taking on all sins -• Jesus' death and resurrection -• Amazing love song lyrics mentioning God's love, forgiveness, and redemption -• Confession of faith in Jesus as the King, Lord, and Savior -• Waiting for God's presence and satisfaction -• Trusting in God's power and sacrifice -• Supporting a non-profit organization (Cascade Christian Counseling) -• Purifying one's heart and being set apart for God -• Children's worship time and blessing the littlest ones among us -• Summer activities and resources available for those staying over -• Emmanuel church announcements -• Prayer for a member in hospital (Klaus Tessemacher) -• Reminder about next Sunday's Lord's Supper celebration -• Congregational prayer -• Praise and thanksgiving for Canada Day weekend -• Prayers for youth, travelers, and those grieving -• Special prayers for individuals in need (Ellen White, Elise Wagener, Klaus) -• Blessing on Mike and Klosterhoff's wedding day -• Prayer for Pastor Chris and the preaching of the word -• Introduction to a summer series on faith heroes from Hebrews 11 -• Discussion on faith and its relationship with confidence and assurance -• Addressing crises of faith and the importance of community support -• The role of people in times of spiritual struggle, particularly during a crisis of faith -• The universality of faith beyond Christianity, including empirically unverifiable assumptions that direct human behavior -• A summer series on testimonies of faith from biblical figures, aiming to grow personal faith lives through their stories. -• Encouragement to share personal stories of faith -• Importance of understanding what faith is -• Overview of the book of Hebrews as an exposition on Jesus' person and work -• Key points from the book of Hebrews including: - • Jesus as greater than angels - • Jesus taking on human form and dying for humanity's sins - • Jesus offering Himself as a living sacrifice to cleanse the world of sin - • Jesus appearing a second time to bring salvation to those waiting for Him -• The author of Hebrews uses the story of Jesus to fuel discipleship and transformation -• Christians are called to persevere and hold unswervingly to their hope due to Jesus' sacrifice -• Some early Christians were persecuted, had property confiscated, or imprisoned, but joyfully accepted this for their faith -• The book of Hebrews aims to produce a life that looks at the high price of love and accepts it joyfully -• Living with an unshakable hope in God beyond this life gives the power to risk one's life and property -• Chapter 11 is about giving examples of people who have laid hold of their future reward and live radical, sacrificial love due to faith. -• Defining faith as confidence and assurance -• Exploring the Greek meaning of "confidence" (foundation, substance, firmness) -• Discussing how faith is not just emotional but also active and impelling -• Faith's relationship to hope, conviction, and reality -• The role of faith in everyday life and relationships -• Encouraging storytelling and sharing of faith experiences -• Inviting others into one's story of faith for transformation and growth -• The speaker's personal story of transformation from recreational drug use to faith, thanks to Pastor Paul Vandenbrink -• God using people like Paul as a "great cloud of witnesses" to call others to faith -• Hebrews 11-12 and the importance of fixing one's eyes on Jesus in times of crisis or doubt -• The power of stories to challenge unbelief and inspire transformation -• Encouragement to share personal stories and experiences with others, sparking faith and spiritual growth in those who hear them -• Prayer for faith heroes to reveal God's kingdom -• Praying for faith that goes out and shares God's work -• The light of creation, faithfulness, and power of promise -• Being children of the cross, walking by faith, and fixing eyes on Him -• Power of the gospel, faith moving mountains, and Christ making all things possible -• Receiving God's blessing, going in faith, and being led by God -• Overcoming fear, going in peace to love and serve the Lord -• Praying for the kingdom of God to be built and established -• Asking for the power of God's kingdom to be unleashed -• Invoking God's presence to change hearts and atmospheres -• Declaring the church as the hope on earth -• Calling for a revival or awakening within the church \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 2, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 2, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 73badc84b1141ffbfa2ae7e9e42623727040e625..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 2, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1024 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 14.66] Yeah, totally. -[30.00 --> 50.00] Yes. -[50.00 --> 62.00] Yes. -[62.00 --> 81.86] Good morning. -[81.86 --> 82.12] Good morning. -[83.12 --> 86.12] Welcome into worship this morning. -[86.12 --> 116.10] Good morning. -[116.12 --> 122.08] We're grateful for the opportunity for a bunch of teenagers from our church to go and camp -[122.08 --> 124.66] our cabin, I guess, together this weekend. -[125.30 --> 126.92] I heard from Pastor Kevin this morning. -[127.12 --> 132.84] They had an excellent weekend and are starting to pack up now and the like. -[133.58 --> 135.66] We also have an announcement this morning from Emo. -[135.92 --> 138.50] So I'm going to get Emo to come up to the front. -[138.50 --> 147.54] As he's making his way up to the front, I just want to remind you that in a week's time, we'll -[147.54 --> 149.40] be having kids camp here. -[149.40 --> 156.34] And so that's for kids age three through, Carolyn, what's the top number? -[156.78 --> 157.22] Seven. -[157.42 --> 157.86] Thank you. -[158.44 --> 160.20] And we need some help getting that ready. -[160.70 --> 167.52] And so if you are available this Thursday at 1 p.m. to help set up and do some decorating, -[167.98 --> 169.70] Carolyn and the team would love that. -[170.04 --> 171.72] If you have questions, you can talk to Carolyn. -[171.88 --> 172.88] Carolyn's going to raise her hand. -[172.88 --> 173.98] That's who you talk to. -[174.10 --> 174.54] Very good. -[175.16 --> 179.96] And then as well, in the e-bulletin, there are some other opportunities to sign up to volunteer -[179.96 --> 180.72] there too. -[180.80 --> 183.48] So if you have questions about that, you can direct them at Carolyn. -[183.54 --> 187.02] But I want to encourage you to sign up for those volunteer opportunities. -[187.66 --> 188.10] Emo, go ahead. -[188.94 --> 189.42] Good morning. -[190.32 --> 197.22] Just a reminder that the Emanuel Food Bank drive starts next Sunday, July 9th. -[197.22 --> 204.84] When we hand out the empty grocery bags to our neighbors in Murrayville, the grocery bags -[204.84 --> 210.82] will be handed out in the foyer after the service next Sunday. -[211.80 --> 219.82] This drive is an important event for the Langley Food Bank because this time of the year is when -[219.82 --> 221.64] they get the least amount of donations. -[221.64 --> 226.94] We encourage everyone in the church to participate next Sunday. -[227.92 --> 236.28] Then on Saturday, July 15th, the full bags will be returned to the church by our neighbors -[236.28 --> 240.24] where we will have a pancake breakfast and kids' fair. -[241.04 --> 243.94] We still need some volunteers for Saturday. -[243.94 --> 254.64] We encourage you to sign up at the back in the foyer after the service or online the e-bulletin. -[256.86 --> 264.18] I encourage you to participate in this worthwhile cause for the poor in our community for Jesus' sake. -[264.92 --> 265.52] Thank you. -[265.68 --> 266.42] Have a great Sunday. -[266.42 --> 277.78] As well as we are rolling into our summer season and schedule here, -[278.32 --> 281.24] children's worship time changes a little bit, -[281.36 --> 286.46] and it's for the preschooler and kindergarten-aged kids, so three to five, -[287.02 --> 291.64] and they will go out during our regular worship time together -[291.64 --> 295.06] and be met with special teachers and special helpers. -[295.06 --> 299.34] We have a special volunteer schedule for that that we need to fill out, -[299.82 --> 304.38] and so there's a few spaces left for teachers and for helpers, -[304.56 --> 309.06] and so we encourage you, again, in the e-bulletin there's a sign-up list there, -[309.78 --> 314.52] or you can, if there's someone at the back table there, the children's worship time check-in, -[314.58 --> 316.22] you can ask them about that. -[317.42 --> 319.78] Lastly, following our worship this morning, -[319.78 --> 323.52] about 15 to 20 minutes after our service, -[323.52 --> 329.36] I'm going to lead a discussion and recap of Synod 2023, -[329.96 --> 334.56] and so Synod is the annual gathering of Christian Reformed churches and leaders -[334.56 --> 339.06] where they make some decisions about theology and direction for the church. -[339.58 --> 341.52] They met earlier in June, -[341.52 --> 346.04] and so to just share what happened in that meeting and what took place, -[346.50 --> 348.52] we will gather in the multi-purpose room, -[348.60 --> 354.34] and then I'll walk you through the decisions and the events of that time and week together. -[354.50 --> 356.84] And so I encourage you, following service today, -[356.94 --> 360.58] to meet in the multi-purpose room 15 or 20 minutes afterwards, -[360.68 --> 361.88] so you have time to grab a coffee, -[362.34 --> 362.84] some other refreshments, -[363.50 --> 364.62] and then we'll gather together. -[364.96 --> 366.08] If you have any questions about that, -[366.18 --> 367.20] you can grab me beforehand. -[367.20 --> 369.38] I believe that's it. -[369.64 --> 370.90] And so I'm going to ask, as you're able, -[371.04 --> 371.90] if you would stand, -[372.60 --> 374.68] and we're welcomed into God's presence together. -[378.66 --> 382.52] We are welcomed by God in this space -[382.52 --> 385.32] as He meets us here for worship, -[385.50 --> 387.92] and so we receive His greeting. -[388.98 --> 391.96] Grace, mercy, and peace to you -[391.96 --> 393.42] from God our Father, -[393.54 --> 394.66] from the Lord Jesus Christ, -[394.76 --> 395.86] His Son and our Savior, -[395.86 --> 398.78] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[399.86 --> 400.32] Amen. -[401.02 --> 403.06] I'm going to invite you to turn to those around you -[403.06 --> 405.02] and welcome them into worship this morning. -[417.02 --> 417.50] Robin. -[420.00 --> 420.48] Adrian. -[420.86 --> 421.18] Sarah. -[421.18 --> 421.30] Sarah. -[425.86 --> 440.00] As we begin our worship this morning, -[440.28 --> 443.50] let's give thanks to the Lord our God -[443.50 --> 446.78] and reflect on this passage from Psalm 100. -[448.12 --> 450.38] Enter His gates with thanksgiving -[450.38 --> 452.66] and His courts with praise. -[452.66 --> 455.72] Give thanks to Him and praise His name. -[456.30 --> 457.78] For the Lord is good -[457.78 --> 459.82] and His love endures forever. -[460.54 --> 463.98] His faithfulness continues throughout all generations. -[463.98 --> 471.86] I will worship. -[471.86 --> 487.52] I will worship. -[487.52 --> 488.52] I will worship. -[488.52 --> 489.52] I will worship. -[489.52 --> 492.52] With all of my heart. -[492.52 --> 494.52] With all of my heart. -[494.52 --> 495.52] With all of my heart. -[495.52 --> 498.64] I will praise you. -[498.64 --> 500.90] I will praise you. -[500.90 --> 503.52] With all of my strength. -[503.52 --> 505.64] All my strength. -[505.64 --> 508.52] I will seek you. -[508.52 --> 511.78] I will seek you. -[511.78 --> 513.78] All of my days. -[513.78 --> 514.78] All of my days. -[514.78 --> 516.78] All of my days. -[516.78 --> 518.78] I will follow. -[518.78 --> 519.78] I will follow. -[519.78 --> 521.78] I will follow. -[521.78 --> 523.78] All of your ways. -[523.78 --> 524.78] All of your ways. -[524.78 --> 526.78] All of your ways. -[526.78 --> 531.78] I will give you all my worship. -[531.78 --> 538.78] I will give you all my praise. -[538.78 --> 543.78] You alone are long to worship. -[543.78 --> 548.78] You alone are worthy of my praise. -[548.78 --> 549.78] Your head will bow down. -[549.78 --> 551.78] I will bow down. -[551.78 --> 552.78] I will bow down. -[552.78 --> 555.78] And hail you as King. -[555.78 --> 558.78] Hail and sing. -[558.78 --> 561.78] I will serve you. -[561.78 --> 563.78] I will serve you. -[563.78 --> 565.78] Give you everything. -[565.78 --> 569.78] Give you everything. -[569.78 --> 571.78] I will lift up. -[571.78 --> 573.78] I will lift up. -[573.78 --> 576.78] My eyes to your throne. -[576.78 --> 579.78] I will trust you. -[579.78 --> 581.78] I will trust you. -[581.78 --> 584.78] I will trust you. -[584.78 --> 586.78] Trust you alone. -[586.78 --> 590.78] Trust me in your life. -[590.78 --> 595.78] I will give you all my worship. -[595.78 --> 600.78] I will give you all my praise. -[600.78 --> 605.78] You alone I long to worship. -[605.78 --> 611.78] You alone are worthy of my praise. -[611.78 --> 613.78] I will give you all my worship. -[613.78 --> 615.78] I will give you all my praise. -[615.78 --> 616.78] I will give you all my praise. -[616.78 --> 618.78] You alone I long to worship. -[618.78 --> 622.78] You alone are worthy of my praise. -[622.78 --> 627.78] You alone I long to worship. -[627.78 --> 635.78] You alone are worthy of my praise. -[635.78 --> 646.78] You alone I love you. -[646.78 --> 648.78] You are worthy of love as King us. -[648.78 --> 650.78] You alone I love you. -[650.78 --> 652.78] I will eat every song you could ever sing. -[652.78 --> 659.78] Worthy of every song we could ever sing -[659.78 --> 666.78] Worthy of every praise we could ever bring -[666.78 --> 673.78] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe -[673.78 --> 679.78] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe -[679.78 --> 690.78] Jesus the name above every other name -[690.78 --> 697.78] Jesus the name we want who could ever sing -[697.78 --> 702.78] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe -[702.78 --> 706.78] We live for you -[706.78 --> 716.78] Holy, there is no one like you -[716.78 --> 720.78] There is no beside you -[720.78 --> 725.78] Open up my eyes in wonder -[725.78 --> 728.78] And show me who you are -[728.78 --> 735.78] And tell me with your heart and lead me -[735.78 --> 740.78] In the blood that always loved me -[740.78 --> 750.78] Jesus the name above every other name -[750.78 --> 757.78] Jesus the only one who could ever sing -[757.78 --> 763.78] Worthy of every breath you could ever breathe -[763.78 --> 766.78] We live for you -[766.78 --> 767.78] We live for you -[767.78 --> 768.78] We live for you -[768.78 --> 776.78] Holy, there is no one like you -[776.78 --> 780.78] There is none beside you -[780.78 --> 785.78] Open up my eyes in wonder -[785.78 --> 788.78] And show me who you are -[788.78 --> 792.78] And fill me with your heart -[792.78 --> 799.78] And lead me in your love through those around me -[799.78 --> 809.78] I will build my arms upon your love -[809.78 --> 820.78] I will build my arms upon your love -[820.78 --> 825.78] It is a firm foundation -[825.78 --> 830.78] I will build my arms upon your love -[830.78 --> 831.78] It is a firm foundation -[831.78 --> 833.78] I will put my arms upon your love -[833.78 --> 835.78] It is a firm foundation -[835.78 --> 837.78] I will put my arms upon your love -[837.78 --> 839.78] And I will not be shaken -[839.78 --> 840.78] I will build my arms upon your love -[840.78 --> 845.78] I will build my arms upon your love -[845.78 --> 854.78] And I will not be shaken -[854.78 --> 864.78] I will build my arms upon your love -[864.78 --> 868.36] I will not be shaken. -[869.14 --> 874.06] Holy, there is no one like you. -[874.52 --> 877.66] There is none beside you. -[878.10 --> 882.64] Open up my eyes in wonder. -[883.44 --> 890.42] Show me who you are and fill me with your heart -[890.42 --> 898.92] and lead me in your love to those around me. -[903.70 --> 910.18] Please join me in a prayer of confession. -[911.58 --> 916.30] Gracious God, we are all sinners and have fallen so short -[916.30 --> 919.16] in our attempts at honouring you in everything we do. -[919.16 --> 922.48] So often we have failed to walk in your light. -[923.14 --> 923.92] Forgive us, Lord. -[924.84 --> 929.48] We can be tempted to try to distance ourselves from you -[929.48 --> 931.08] because of our guilt and shame. -[931.40 --> 934.80] As we listen to the whispered lies of the great deceiver, -[935.74 --> 938.68] we can fall prey to sin and fear. -[939.52 --> 942.52] We thank you that through Jesus we have been set free -[942.52 --> 943.96] from our sin and shame. -[944.66 --> 947.56] May your light shine in us through Jesus Christ our Lord. -[947.56 --> 948.84] Amen. -[949.16 --> 952.94] We find good news and real hope in the scriptures -[952.94 --> 956.90] where we read that Christ, in his amazing love, -[956.98 --> 959.00] has taken on all our sins. -[959.60 --> 963.08] He has died on the cross and borne the sins of all of us -[963.08 --> 965.14] who repent, believe, and follow him. -[965.70 --> 968.92] He prepares a place for us to be with him for all eternity. -[968.92 --> 973.06] Please join us in singing of his amazing love together. -[973.06 --> 977.12] of God. -[977.12 --> 983.32] Unforgiven, because you were forsaken -[983.32 --> 990.88] Unaccepted, you were condemned -[990.88 --> 997.46] Unalive, and well your spirit is within -[997.46 --> 1003.02] Because you died and rose again -[1007.12 --> 1013.32] Unforgiven, because you were forsaken -[1013.32 --> 1020.12] Unaccepted, you were condemned -[1020.12 --> 1026.62] Unalive, and well your spirit is within -[1026.62 --> 1033.12] Because you rose and rose again -[1033.12 --> 1042.32] Amazing love, I'll get it here -[1042.32 --> 1048.12] Soon my King would die for me -[1048.12 --> 1056.12] Amazing love, I know it's true -[1056.12 --> 1061.32] It's my joy to honor you -[1061.32 --> 1068.32] In all I do, I honor you -[1068.32 --> 1077.32] Unforgiven, because you were forsaken -[1077.32 --> 1081.72] Unforgiven, because you were அத -[1081.72 --> 1082.52] van You were condemned -[1082.52 --> 1083.68] U.S. -[1083.68 --> 1086.52] Lord, you were condemned -[1086.52 --> 1090.42] I'm alive and well your spirit is within -[1090.42 --> 1092.18] within me -[1092.18 --> 1093.98] because you -[1093.98 --> 1096.42] died and rose again -[1097.94 --> 1102.02] if I -[1102.02 --> 1104.60] can -[1104.60 --> 1105.86] be -[1105.86 --> 1108.42] you my king -[1108.94 --> 1110.42] would die for me -[1112.04 --> 1116.42] if I -[1116.42 --> 1118.42] know -[1118.42 --> 1119.54] it's true -[1119.54 --> 1124.14] and joy to honor -[1124.14 --> 1125.32] you -[1125.32 --> 1128.08] in all I -[1128.08 --> 1129.24] do -[1129.24 --> 1132.32] I honor you -[1132.32 --> 1135.82] you -[1135.82 --> 1138.26] are -[1138.26 --> 1140.32] my king -[1140.32 --> 1142.82] you -[1142.82 --> 1146.00] are my -[1146.00 --> 1147.54] king -[1147.54 --> 1149.14] Jesus -[1149.14 --> 1150.08] you -[1150.08 --> 1152.94] are my -[1152.94 --> 1154.14] king -[1154.14 --> 1156.08] Jesus -[1156.08 --> 1157.08] you -[1157.08 --> 1159.98] are my -[1159.98 --> 1160.86] king -[1160.86 --> 1165.46] amazing -[1165.46 --> 1165.96] amazing -[1165.96 --> 1166.46] love -[1166.46 --> 1167.46] amazing -[1167.46 --> 1168.46] love -[1168.46 --> 1169.40] can it be -[1169.40 --> 1172.46] you my king -[1172.46 --> 1174.40] would die for me -[1174.40 --> 1176.46] amazing -[1176.46 --> 1178.46] love -[1178.46 --> 1181.46] I know -[1181.46 --> 1182.56] it's true -[1182.56 --> 1184.68] It's my -[1184.68 --> 1193.16] to say -[1193.16 --> 1197.16] the part -[1197.16 --> 1199.20] who -[1199.20 --> 1200.26] is -[1200.26 --> 1201.30] my -[1201.30 --> 1202.16] remember -[1202.16 --> 1203.64] how -[1203.64 --> 1203.88] he -[1203.88 --> 1203.92] is -[1203.92 --> 1204.46] his -[1204.46 --> 1205.12] is -[1205.12 --> 1205.20] his -[1205.20 --> 1207.20] my -[1207.20 --> 1226.88] All the depths I cry to -[1226.88 --> 1233.28] The darkest places by the cold -[1233.28 --> 1238.56] In God your ear to me I hear -[1238.56 --> 1243.96] And hear my blood for mercy, Lord -[1243.96 --> 1249.28] Will you to count my sinful ways -[1249.28 --> 1254.72] How could I come before your throne -[1254.72 --> 1260.28] Yet full forgiveness meets my case -[1260.28 --> 1265.48] I stand with you by grace alone -[1265.48 --> 1271.28] I will wait for you, I will wait for you -[1271.28 --> 1275.28] On your word I will rely -[1275.28 --> 1281.28] I will wait for you, shall they wait for you -[1281.28 --> 1286.48] Till my soul is satisfied -[1286.48 --> 1299.48] I'll put your hope in God alone -[1299.48 --> 1304.28] Take courage in His power to say -[1304.28 --> 1309.48] Completely and forever won -[1309.48 --> 1315.28] By Christ emerging from the grave -[1315.28 --> 1320.48] I will wait for you, I will wait for you -[1320.48 --> 1325.48] I will learn the coming of God -[1325.48 --> 1330.68] I will wait for you, shall they wait for you -[1330.68 --> 1332.48] Till my soul is satisfied -[1332.48 --> 1337.68] My soul is satisfied -[1337.68 --> 1339.48] My soul is satisfied -[1339.48 --> 1341.48] My soul is satisfied -[1341.48 --> 1345.48] My soul is satisfied -[1345.48 --> 1349.48] My steadfast love has made a way -[1349.48 --> 1354.48] And God Himself has made a way -[1354.48 --> 1360.48] That could all trust in Him today -[1360.48 --> 1364.48] By giving in His sacrifice -[1364.48 --> 1367.48] I will wait for you, shall they wait for you -[1367.48 --> 1369.48] I will wait for you, I will wait for you -[1369.48 --> 1371.48] I will wait for you, I will wait for you -[1371.48 --> 1375.48] Through the storm and through the night -[1375.48 --> 1380.48] I will wait for you, surely wait for you -[1380.48 --> 1385.48] For your love is mighty light -[1385.48 --> 1390.48] I will wait for you, I will wait for you -[1390.48 --> 1391.48] I will wait for you, I will wait for you -[1391.48 --> 1396.48] On your word I will rely -[1396.48 --> 1401.48] I will wait for you, surely wait for you -[1401.48 --> 1406.48] Till my soul is satisfied -[1406.48 --> 1408.48] Tonight -[1408.48 --> 1413.48] They are minuses -[1418.48 --> 1422.48] spectators -[1422.48 --> 1424.48] Many students -[1424.48 --> 1425.68] Wait for you -[1426.48 --> 1427.28] 52 -[1427.28 --> 1428.48] 4 -[1428.48 --> 1429.48] credit -[1429.48 --> 1430.48] 45 -[1430.48 --> 1432.48] 52 -[1432.48 --> 1434.48] 73 -[1434.48 --> 1434.90] 75 -[1434.90 --> 1435.90] 75 -[1435.90 --> 1456.74] The first collection today is for the budget, operating costs, and all our mission. -[1458.56 --> 1462.82] And the second one is for Cascade Christian Counseling. -[1462.82 --> 1468.92] This is a non-profit organization that has been in operation for over 35 years. -[1469.72 --> 1477.64] They offer a caring, faith-based approach to helping clients to move forward to healing. -[1478.46 --> 1484.96] They exist to provide Christian counseling and consulting service to the whole community, -[1484.96 --> 1495.72] and we raise funds in order to provide lower session fees to those who can't afford to get the help they need. -[1495.72 --> 1502.72] Thank you. -[1502.72 --> 1504.72] Thank you. -[1504.72 --> 1506.72] Thank you. -[1506.72 --> 1507.72] Thank you. -[1507.72 --> 1508.72] Thank you. -[1508.72 --> 1509.72] Thank you. -[1509.72 --> 1511.72] Thank you. -[1511.72 --> 1512.72] Thank you. -[1512.72 --> 1513.72] Thank you. -[1513.72 --> 1514.72] Thank you. -[1514.72 --> 1537.72] Purify my heart, be as gold, -[1537.72 --> 1547.72] and precious silver, purify my heart. -[1547.72 --> 1554.72] He is gold, purify my heart, be as gold. -[1554.72 --> 1566.72] Be, Father, spy, my heart's one desire -[1566.72 --> 1579.72] is to be only set apart for you, Lord. -[1579.72 --> 1593.72] I choose to be only set apart for you, my Master, -[1593.72 --> 1599.72] ready to do your way. -[1599.72 --> 1613.72] Purify my heart, let me from within, -[1613.72 --> 1620.72] take me wholly, purify my heart, -[1620.72 --> 1625.72] and let me from my sin. -[1625.72 --> 1635.72] Deep within, be fine as mine. -[1635.72 --> 1653.72] My heart's one desire is to be only set apart for you, Lord. -[1653.72 --> 1667.72] I choose to be only set apart for you, my Master, -[1667.72 --> 1673.72] ready to do your way. -[1673.72 --> 1689.72] Ready to do your way. -[1689.72 --> 1692.72] I would love it if we could have the kids -[1692.72 --> 1695.72] who are going to head out to children's worship time. -[1695.72 --> 1698.72] And so we're looking at like three to five-year-olds. -[1698.72 --> 1700.72] Are there any here this morning? -[1700.72 --> 1702.72] Yeah, Everly, come on up. -[1702.72 --> 1710.72] Lead the way. -[1710.72 --> 1711.72] It's a long week. -[1711.72 --> 1714.72] I knew it was going to be a small group this morning. -[1714.72 --> 1717.72] All right, girls, why don't you stand up here beside me? -[1717.72 --> 1719.72] Come on up. -[1719.72 --> 1721.72] Come on, Ailey. -[1721.72 --> 1723.72] Perfect. -[1723.72 --> 1726.72] And so we're going to do the blessing, -[1726.72 --> 1728.72] and then you guys are going to head out. -[1728.72 --> 1731.72] So I'm going to invite all of you to stand -[1731.72 --> 1735.72] as we bless these littlest ones among us -[1735.72 --> 1737.72] to continue their worship and their learning. -[1737.72 --> 1739.72] And so I want to say to them, -[1739.72 --> 1740.72] the Lord be with you, -[1740.72 --> 1742.72] and invite you to respond by saying, -[1742.72 --> 1743.72] and also with you. -[1743.72 --> 1746.72] I did also just want to say that before these ones go, -[1746.72 --> 1748.72] if you are staying here, -[1748.72 --> 1752.72] and this is maybe your first time staying over the course of the summer, -[1752.72 --> 1755.72] there are clipboards at the back with coloring pages -[1755.72 --> 1760.72] and games that are related to the theme that we will be talking about here this morning. -[1760.72 --> 1763.72] And so if you did not grab one of those on the way in for yourselves, -[1763.72 --> 1766.72] kids, you may grab one of those as your parents, -[1766.72 --> 1770.72] or guardian, or whoever is with you allows you and encourages you, -[1770.72 --> 1773.72] you may grab one of those and then bring it back into the space. -[1773.72 --> 1775.72] Together then, we're going to say, -[1775.72 --> 1778.72] the Lord be with you. -[1778.72 --> 1780.72] And also with you. -[1780.72 --> 1781.72] Amen. -[1781.72 --> 1782.72] Go ahead, guys. Go ahead. -[1810.72 --> 1811.72] Good morning. -[1811.72 --> 1814.72] My name is Sam, and I'm a member here at Emmanuel, -[1814.72 --> 1819.72] and it's my privilege to lead you in congregational prayer. -[1819.72 --> 1823.72] Before we do that, I do have a couple of announcements. -[1823.72 --> 1828.72] Klaus Tessemacher, Amanda Hoguewoning's father, -[1828.72 --> 1830.72] has been in the hospital since Friday, -[1830.72 --> 1837.72] undergoing tests to diagnose the cause of a low hemoglobin and low energy and fatigue. -[1837.72 --> 1841.72] We are praying that the doctors can figure out what's going on. -[1841.72 --> 1845.72] So we will pray for him as well as others this morning. -[1845.72 --> 1852.72] We also remind you that next Sunday, Lord willing, we will celebrate the Lord's Supper. -[1852.72 --> 1855.72] So please prepare for that. -[1855.72 --> 1858.72] And may you think about that this upcoming week. -[1858.72 --> 1861.72] Please pray with me. -[1861.72 --> 1866.72] Eternal God, Creator, Redeemer of this world, -[1866.72 --> 1869.72] we stand in awe of you today. -[1869.72 --> 1872.72] We can see the majesty of your creation, -[1872.72 --> 1876.72] yet sometimes we fail to acknowledge this world is in your control. -[1876.72 --> 1882.72] We come to worship this morning knowing only you are worthy of our praise. -[1882.72 --> 1887.72] On this Canada Day weekend, we give thanks for our country, Canada, -[1887.72 --> 1890.72] the freedoms that we can enjoy. -[1890.72 --> 1896.72] In spite of some of the issues we differ on, give us contentment today. -[1896.72 --> 1900.72] We pray for the leaders of our governments, our parliament in Ottawa, -[1900.72 --> 1905.72] our provincial legislature in Victoria, our local township council. -[1905.72 --> 1909.72] Provide wisdom and insight to all those who give leadership, -[1909.72 --> 1915.72] that they may serve you knowing that you are the ruler of all. -[1915.72 --> 1919.72] You are faithful, God, as your love never changes. -[1919.72 --> 1923.72] And you are the same today, tomorrow, and forever. -[1923.72 --> 1926.72] And for that we praise you. -[1926.72 --> 1931.72] We pray for our youth who are winding up their time of getting together at a camp out. -[1931.72 --> 1934.72] We pray that they may have a wonderful weekend -[1934.72 --> 1939.72] and that they may have a safe journey back home today. -[1939.72 --> 1944.72] We pray for those who are traveling or planning to vacation this summer. -[1944.72 --> 1950.72] Protect them, we pray, and give times of rest, relaxation from regular routines, -[1950.72 --> 1956.72] and the refreshment of body and mind, being grateful for a time to rest in your love. -[1956.72 --> 1958.72] We pray for those who grieve. -[1958.72 --> 1962.72] Comfort them with your peace, which transcends all understanding. -[1962.72 --> 1967.72] Be with them in times of loneliness, despair, and mourning. -[1967.72 --> 1971.72] The powerful words of this hymn says it so well. -[1971.72 --> 1975.72] I need you every hour, in joy or pain. -[1975.72 --> 1979.72] Come quickly and abide, or life is in vain. -[1979.72 --> 1982.72] I need you every hour. -[1982.72 --> 1986.72] Teach me your will, and your rich promises in me fulfill. -[1986.72 --> 1991.72] I need you, oh, I need you, every hour I need you. -[1991.72 --> 1994.72] Oh, bless me now, my Savior. -[1994.72 --> 1996.72] I come to you. -[1996.72 --> 2001.72] Our prayers go out for Ellen White, who is now in Langley Hospital. -[2001.72 --> 2005.72] Pray that you would give her patience and perseverance. -[2005.72 --> 2010.72] For Elise Wagener, who needs your healing touch again today. -[2010.72 --> 2014.72] We pray for Klaus, as he also undergoes tests. -[2014.72 --> 2021.72] We pray, Lord, that they may diagnose what has to be done, and that you will bless the doctors who are treating him. -[2021.72 --> 2026.72] May we walk with them as they persevere during times of uncertainty and pain. -[2026.72 --> 2032.72] Lord, you have walked this path yourself, suffering on the cross for each one of us. -[2032.72 --> 2037.72] Give patience and grant healing to them and all who call on your name today. -[2037.72 --> 2044.72] We celebrate this morning with Mike and Klosterhoff and Jane Beamers, who are looking forward to their wedding day this week. -[2044.72 --> 2054.72] Bless this time as they exchange vows and be the center of their marriage as they may look to you for guidance as they begin their life together. -[2054.72 --> 2058.72] Pray for Pastor Chris as he leads us in the preaching of the word. -[2058.72 --> 2063.72] Give us ears to hear, hearts to accept the truth that will be revealed to us today. -[2063.72 --> 2069.72] We pray all of this in the wonderful name of our risen Savior, Jesus Christ. -[2069.72 --> 2070.72] Amen. -[2074.72 --> 2103.72] As you can see on the screen behind me, today we are beginning our summer series. -[2103.72 --> 2108.72] We are going to be a series on faith heroes. -[2108.72 --> 2123.72] In this series, using the list of characters from Hebrews 11, we are going to look at the stories of people from the Old Testament and stories of their life and faith, -[2123.72 --> 2132.72] and how that can inspire us and be an example for us as well today in our life and faith in the world. -[2132.72 --> 2149.72] Along with those Old Testament character examples, we will each week, as preachers here, include someone from our own life and our own testimony as an example who parallels the same. -[2149.72 --> 2164.72] And so, as we begin that series today, I thought it was smart and wise to begin with the first three verses of Hebrews 11, talking about what is faith, -[2164.72 --> 2171.72] and looking more closely at faith, and looking more closely at faith with the hope that when it comes time to share our faith or our experience of faith, -[2171.72 --> 2179.72] we are better equipped with an understanding of what the faith is that we share. -[2179.72 --> 2185.72] And so, to start us off, we are going to read the first three verses of Hebrews 11. -[2185.72 --> 2188.72] I encourage you to have that in front of you. -[2188.72 --> 2190.72] It should be on the screen behind me. -[2190.72 --> 2193.72] Let's read together. -[2193.72 --> 2202.72] Now, faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. -[2202.72 --> 2206.72] This is what the ancients were commended for. -[2206.72 --> 2216.72] By faith, we understand that the universe was formed at God's command so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. -[2216.72 --> 2223.72] This is the word of the Lord. -[2223.72 --> 2242.72] Now, as we begin a discussion on faith, I just want to acknowledge with you that sometimes these questions are most pressing in our lives when our faith is at its weakest point, -[2242.72 --> 2247.72] or when we don't know what it is that we believe. -[2247.72 --> 2254.72] And one of the things that is not uncommon in my job as pastor, -[2254.72 --> 2259.72] whether it's someone from our church family or someone from the community just looking for help, -[2259.72 --> 2266.72] is to sit across from someone in my study in a counseling conversation or in a coffee shop somewhere, -[2266.72 --> 2270.72] and for them to begin the conversation just by saying, -[2270.72 --> 2274.72] Pastor, I'm having a crisis of faith. -[2274.72 --> 2277.72] I don't know if I believe anymore. -[2281.72 --> 2287.72] And so, what are we supposed to do in that moment? -[2287.72 --> 2289.72] What do you do then, right? -[2289.72 --> 2294.72] And what will you do then will set the tone for whatever comes next. -[2294.72 --> 2301.72] Will you, in that moment of saying, I'm having a crisis of faith, will you press in? -[2301.72 --> 2304.72] Or will you push away? -[2307.72 --> 2318.72] I've stood here before and shared with you that when I was 27 years old, -[2318.72 --> 2322.72] just finishing my last year at seminary, -[2322.72 --> 2328.72] I went through a very significant crisis of faith. -[2328.72 --> 2332.72] I wasn't sure if I could believe or if I would believe, -[2333.72 --> 2337.72] or continue to believe, or if I did, what would it look like? -[2337.72 --> 2343.72] And that was a really challenging and difficult time in my life, -[2343.72 --> 2346.72] and in the life of the people who supported me and surrounded me, -[2346.72 --> 2349.72] because I wasn't the most polite person. -[2350.72 --> 2354.72] I was not very charitable in our discussions together, -[2354.72 --> 2356.72] even as they were charitable to me. -[2356.72 --> 2365.72] I have since learned, of course, that a crisis of faith while in seminary is not abnormal. -[2366.72 --> 2373.72] In fact, this week I was reading an essay by a gentleman named Akshay Rajkumar, -[2373.72 --> 2378.72] who offers advice for surviving seminary without losing your faith. -[2378.72 --> 2385.72] Like there's a publication industry around this very struggle and reality. -[2385.72 --> 2390.72] But for me, as I lived in this moment, -[2390.72 --> 2394.72] what was vital was the people around me. -[2394.72 --> 2399.72] My wife and my friends at seminary who were patient and who listened and who heard -[2399.72 --> 2406.72] and who graciously pushed back on some of the more ridiculous things that I was saying in that moment. -[2406.72 --> 2412.72] And so, as we are having this discussion together on faith, -[2412.72 --> 2419.72] I just want to remind us that it's the context of a community like this one -[2419.72 --> 2425.72] that is so important for these sorts of times and circumstances. -[2426.72 --> 2431.72] The people that you can turn to and say, I am struggling with this. -[2431.72 --> 2438.72] I am also aware that this is bigger than Christians. -[2438.72 --> 2439.72] Right? -[2439.72 --> 2447.72] The questions around what is faith or what faith or in what or in whom is my faith. -[2447.72 --> 2448.72] Right? -[2448.72 --> 2449.72] Do I even have faith? -[2449.72 --> 2453.72] Those kinds of questions are all part of the broader human experience. -[2453.72 --> 2460.72] Now, if you are not a Christian and you're with us this morning or you're watching online, -[2460.72 --> 2465.72] it's possible that you don't use the word faith for what I'm talking about there. -[2465.72 --> 2466.72] Right? -[2466.72 --> 2470.72] It's possible that you would say something like, you know, -[2470.72 --> 2478.72] I live only by what is empirically demonstrable and in a materially specific view of the world. -[2478.72 --> 2484.72] But the truth is, in some way, right, we all live based on a set of assumptions. -[2484.72 --> 2485.72] Right? -[2485.72 --> 2490.72] We all live based on a set of ideas that we can't empirically verify, -[2490.72 --> 2494.72] but they direct how we operate in the world. -[2494.72 --> 2505.72] And so, this conversation around faith and what is faith, while particularly expressed for us as Christians, -[2505.72 --> 2509.72] is for everyone as a human. -[2509.72 --> 2516.72] And so, this summer, as we are looking at the people of chapter 11 in the book of Hebrews, -[2516.72 --> 2524.72] the faith heroes who have come before us, we will be digging into these sorts of examples. -[2524.72 --> 2530.72] And so, each week for the next 10 weeks, we'll take a person from this list and we will hear their stories. -[2530.72 --> 2535.72] And our hope, myself and Kevin and Josh, who will all be preaching this summer, -[2535.72 --> 2545.72] our hope is that our own faith lives will be grown as we study the faith lives and stories of these others. -[2545.72 --> 2551.72] In a word, this series is on testimonies. -[2551.72 --> 2556.72] If you've been around the church for a little while, or if you've been around this church in particular, -[2556.72 --> 2560.72] as we've done professions of faith and things like that, right? -[2560.72 --> 2566.72] A testimony is the word we use to describe sharing your story of faith. -[2566.72 --> 2571.72] And as we listen to these testimonies of faith in the lives of people from the Bible, -[2571.72 --> 2580.72] I want to encourage us to think about how and where you, we, can give our own testimonies of faith. -[2580.72 --> 2589.72] And in fact, maybe one of you is even moved to practice that this summer, here in our midst. -[2589.72 --> 2590.72] Right? -[2590.72 --> 2592.72] And so, we want to open up this space. -[2592.72 --> 2597.72] If you are feeling the pull of the Spirit to say, share some of your life and story, -[2597.72 --> 2602.72] share your testimony with this community of people, talk to me. -[2602.72 --> 2605.72] And we're going to make that happen as part of this. -[2605.72 --> 2613.72] But these stories of faith, right, are just the stories of how we have been or become Christian. -[2613.72 --> 2616.72] When did you start taking your faith seriously? -[2616.72 --> 2619.72] What's your biggest struggle as a believer? -[2619.72 --> 2620.72] Right? -[2620.72 --> 2626.72] And sharing these stories in community, sharing life and story together, -[2626.72 --> 2635.72] is, turns out, a powerful way to have your faith grown. -[2635.72 --> 2640.72] And so maybe, like I said, consider these as an opportunity, -[2640.72 --> 2647.72] and this summer as an opportunity to share how your faith is grown, -[2647.72 --> 2653.72] to share your testimony, to share how you see God at work in you and through you. -[2653.72 --> 2663.72] So, by looking at the life and stories of these Old Testament heroes, -[2663.72 --> 2671.72] it is my hope that we will better learn how to tell our own stories of God's grace and glory -[2671.72 --> 2676.72] and His gifting, His presence in our lives. -[2676.72 --> 2683.72] And like we said, to begin, I thought it wise to look at the question of what faith is. -[2683.72 --> 2686.72] If we want to tell our story of life and faith well, -[2686.72 --> 2692.72] we should have this foundational, this basic understanding of faith. -[2692.72 --> 2699.72] And so, to do that, let me set a context for that question -[2699.72 --> 2703.72] by looking at the context of the discussion that we're entering into, -[2703.72 --> 2706.72] the context of the book of Hebrews. -[2706.72 --> 2713.72] And so, we're going to go through really, really quickly the first kind of ten chapters, -[2713.72 --> 2718.72] and there will be some verses on the screen to help map that through, -[2718.72 --> 2721.72] but bear with me as we go because it sets us up here. -[2721.72 --> 2731.72] And so, the book of Hebrews is a masterful and, I think, beautiful exposition of the person and work of Jesus. -[2731.72 --> 2740.72] And so, we start with this beatific picture, this beautiful picture of Jesus as greater than the angels. -[2740.72 --> 2742.72] Chapter 1, verse 3, it says, -[2742.72 --> 2748.72] The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of His being, -[2748.72 --> 2753.72] sustaining all things by His powerful word. -[2753.72 --> 2754.72] Right? -[2754.72 --> 2759.72] This awesome Jesus, the radiance of the glory of God, -[2759.72 --> 2764.72] then becomes flesh and blood like you and me. -[2764.72 --> 2765.72] Chapter 2, -[2765.72 --> 2770.72] Since the children have flesh and blood, He, that is Jesus, -[2770.72 --> 2775.72] He too shared in their humanity so that by His death, -[2775.72 --> 2780.72] He might break the power of Him who holds the power of death, that is, the devil, -[2780.72 --> 2786.72] and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death. -[2786.72 --> 2787.72] Right? -[2787.72 --> 2792.72] The Son, who is the radiance of God, enters the world, -[2792.72 --> 2794.72] He makes on flesh and He makes His dwelling among us, -[2794.72 --> 2798.72] and He lives the life we should have lived, and He dies the death that we deserve, -[2798.72 --> 2803.72] setting us free from the power of sin and death in this life. -[2803.72 --> 2805.72] And then the author continues. -[2805.72 --> 2814.72] As I read it, anyway, it makes my heart sing when we hear that this Jesus is greater even than Moses. -[2814.72 --> 2827.72] Moses, who was as faithful a servant in all God's house, but Christ is faithful as the Son over God's house. -[2827.72 --> 2834.72] So Moses is in God's house, but Christ is over God's house. -[2834.72 --> 2843.72] And so as we come into the presence of God made possible by Jesus, we, in chapter 4, enter into the rest of God, -[2843.72 --> 2846.72] this eternal Sabbath that is for us. -[2846.72 --> 2851.72] And our souls are satisfied when we are invited into the rest of Jesus, who says, -[2851.72 --> 2857.72] Come to me, all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. -[2857.72 --> 2859.72] And then the author keeps going. -[2859.72 --> 2866.72] We see Jesus, the great high priest, the only true high priest, the high priest and king in the order of Melchizedek, -[2866.72 --> 2871.72] and He offers Himself as a living sacrifice to cleanse the world of sin. -[2871.72 --> 2879.72] In chapter 9, Jesus has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins they committed. -[2879.72 --> 2886.72] Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of the many. -[2886.72 --> 2894.72] And so as we come into the presence of this Christ, our minds are unburdened, our loads are lightened, -[2894.72 --> 2902.72] our eyes are lifted, our backs unhunched under the weight because of the hope that's offered in Jesus. -[2902.72 --> 2914.72] In chapter 9 again, verse 28, that He will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for Him. -[2914.72 --> 2923.72] And like I said, the telling of Jesus and who Jesus is in this book of Hebrews makes my heart sore. -[2923.72 --> 2930.72] And I encourage you, if you haven't before, or even if you have, to read chapters 1 through 10 in one setting this week. -[2930.72 --> 2932.72] Make that part of your devotional life. -[2932.72 --> 2942.72] And I tell you, sometimes when I do this, I end up just weeping at the glory of God that is revealed in the person of Jesus Christ. -[2942.72 --> 2950.72] But that's exactly what God wants for us in the telling of our stories of faith. -[2950.72 --> 2955.72] Right? To stir our hearts out of apathy into joy. -[2955.72 --> 2959.72] To wake our souls from sleep into soaring. -[2959.72 --> 2965.72] To illumine our minds from darkness to His most wondrous light. -[2965.72 --> 2973.72] Maybe you've heard me say this before, but stories of transformation fuel stories of transformation. -[2973.72 --> 2985.72] What I mean by that is, stories of God at work in your life, and seeing God doing incredible things in your life, opens my eyes to the possibility that God might do something in mine. -[2985.72 --> 2988.72] Or that God might do something over here. -[2988.72 --> 2990.72] Because I've seen Him at work over here. -[2990.72 --> 2996.72] Right? Stories of God transforming one person fuel God's transformation in another person. -[2996.72 --> 3009.72] Seeing God at work conforming me into the image of His Son is fuel for the fire of discipleship as God uses those stories to transform other people. -[3009.72 --> 3027.72] And it's this beautiful picture of Jesus raised, victorious, and glorified, and then interceding in the lives of those who believe in Him that the writer of Hebrews now uses to sustain other Christians in the life and stories of faith. -[3027.72 --> 3032.72] Now then, do we get to Hebrews 11? -[3032.72 --> 3033.72] Right? -[3033.72 --> 3042.72] Hebrews 10, after listing all of this story of Jesus and calling us to enter in, Hebrews 10 ends with a call to persevere. -[3042.72 --> 3044.72] It says variously, -[3044.72 --> 3047.72] Let us draw near to God because of Jesus. -[3047.72 --> 3050.72] Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess because of Jesus. -[3050.72 --> 3056.72] Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds because of Jesus. -[3056.72 --> 3062.72] Let us keep on meeting together and encouraging one another because of Jesus. -[3062.72 --> 3086.72] And the writer goes on to say this because what's happening at the time is there are some Christians who are being imprisoned, who are being persecuted, and the others, and the Christians who are being persecuted have to make the hard decision of whether or not they will identify with those in struggling. -[3086.72 --> 3087.72] Will they risk their property? -[3087.72 --> 3096.72] Will they risk their lives knowing that persecution or imprisonment or something hard is likely to come? -[3096.72 --> 3097.72] And verse 34 tells us what happened. -[3097.72 --> 3100.72] And verse 34 tells us what happened. -[3100.72 --> 3101.72] It says, -[3101.72 --> 3115.72] You, that is the audience of this letter, you suffered along with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions. -[3115.72 --> 3116.72] Right? -[3116.72 --> 3122.72] This is the kind of life that the whole book of Hebrews is aiming to produce. -[3122.72 --> 3142.72] A life that looks at the high price of love, whether it's the seizure of our property or imprisonment or some other kind of abuse or hardship, looks at the high price of love and then accepts that possibility joyfully and does what love demands no matter what. -[3142.72 --> 3147.72] That's the life that Hebrews is aiming at and calling us towards. -[3147.72 --> 3158.72] And just imagine, right, imagine what our faith lives, our churches would look like if this was more and more our story and our testimony. -[3158.72 --> 3159.72] Right? -[3159.72 --> 3166.72] People who willingly, joyfully risked property and life in order to bring the love of God to others. -[3166.72 --> 3179.72] People who don't look to the comforts and the ease and security of this life as a necessary thing, but who are free from the kinds of assumptions of style or safety or wealth and leisure. -[3179.72 --> 3191.72] People who know that there is one life to live and only what is done in the name of Jesus Christ and for the good of others will count in the end, both now and eternally. -[3191.72 --> 3192.72] Imagine. -[3192.72 --> 3193.72] Imagine. -[3193.72 --> 3194.72] Imagine. -[3194.72 --> 3195.72] Imagine. -[3195.72 --> 3211.72] And verse 34 makes clear that this, the way of such a life comes about, the way such a life comes about is by an unshakable hope in God beyond this life. -[3211.72 --> 3212.72] Right? -[3212.72 --> 3218.72] You suffered along with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, we read, -[3218.72 --> 3223.72] because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions. -[3223.72 --> 3228.72] You yourselves had better and lasting possessions. -[3228.72 --> 3237.72] And just so we are abundantly clear, right, that means that you already have better and lasting possessions. -[3237.72 --> 3243.72] You already have that realized in eternity. -[3243.72 --> 3263.72] And if you don't live by this great confidence, right, if you don't live by this compelling vision of the future, you are going to be continually thinking about how much you're losing out on or losing out of every time you have to sacrifice for others. -[3263.72 --> 3264.72] Right? -[3264.72 --> 3273.72] Every time something that comes and is a challenge in your life, right, you're going to be thinking, oh man, it could have been so much better. -[3273.72 --> 3289.72] But if our eyes are constantly fixed on this better and lasting possession, right, this eternal joy that is available to you, then all of a sudden you are free to risk your life and to risk your property. -[3289.72 --> 3299.72] Because in this world, right, because in this world, like Paul says in Romans 8, 18, right, our present sufferings are not worth comparing to the glory that will be revealed in us. -[3299.72 --> 3314.72] And so the whole book of Hebrews is written to give a foundation to the hope that is this foundation of life, of radical, risk-taking, sacrificial love. -[3314.72 --> 3328.90] And so what more can the author say than he's already said to help us live out of this hope and out of this radical love? -[3330.06 --> 3331.62] Chapter 11 is the answer. -[3331.62 --> 3333.62] He's laid the foundation. -[3333.62 --> 3334.62] He's laid the foundation. -[3334.62 --> 3348.80] And so now he gives an example of those people who have laid hold of the future reward of joy with God in such a way that it makes all the difference in their lives here and now. -[3349.88 --> 3351.36] That's what chapter 11 is. -[3351.36 --> 3365.70] It is meant to deepen your confidence in God's promises so that you turn from the fleeting pleasures of sin or this life to the kind of radical love that comes from having your hope in God. -[3365.70 --> 3384.98] The power to sacrifice and love and joyfully accept trials and hardship and persecution, to joyfully accept, like these Christians did, the confiscation of their property or imprisonment, that power is called faith. -[3384.98 --> 3391.46] Faith is the confidence in what we hope for. -[3392.10 --> 3401.00] That is, faith is the life lived in the confidence that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions. -[3403.00 --> 3410.86] To be sure, right, the author will not let that truth pass unnoticed or unadopted. -[3410.86 --> 3411.62] Right? -[3411.62 --> 3418.44] That the heart-soaring picture of Jesus Christ in these chapters is to change lives. -[3419.82 --> 3421.86] Chapter 11 lets us see it. -[3422.56 --> 3427.76] That faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. -[3427.76 --> 3441.26] Now, I trust or suspect anyway that many of us have heard this and have maybe even offered it in conversations as the definition of faith. -[3442.18 --> 3443.46] But do we know what it means? -[3444.84 --> 3451.76] And so for just a moment, briefly, let's slow down and look closely at these words together. -[3451.76 --> 3454.40] The words confidence and assurance. -[3454.40 --> 3454.58] Confidence. -[3455.58 --> 3465.26] Now, the first word, confidence, in Greek literally means a setting under or it's a foundation, the foundation of a building. -[3466.30 --> 3474.38] And so in this context, it's used as a metaphor for the idea of substance, of firmness, of holding everything together. -[3475.42 --> 3475.84] Right? -[3475.88 --> 3481.98] It's used outside of the Bible, this same word, to refer to a collection of documents that establish ownership. -[3481.98 --> 3484.42] So it sets up a proof. -[3485.82 --> 3496.10] In fact, if you are old enough or are part of a particular generation of Christians to remember the King James Bible, right? -[3496.14 --> 3498.22] Maybe you remember this translation that says, -[3498.22 --> 3504.06] Now, faith is the substance of things hoped for. -[3505.06 --> 3505.62] Right? -[3505.68 --> 3509.34] It's the collection of proofs, the substance. -[3511.72 --> 3517.26] Another way then to translate this verse or this word, meaning confidence, -[3517.26 --> 3524.14] is that we could say faith is the resolute confidence of what we hope for. -[3524.88 --> 3529.38] That is, the Christian hope is really real. -[3530.24 --> 3531.30] It is reality. -[3531.68 --> 3532.60] It will happen. -[3533.28 --> 3538.36] It's not a hope that says, I hope this will happen, as if there's a possibility that it might not. -[3539.00 --> 3542.90] Faith, rather, here is the resolute confidence that it will. -[3542.90 --> 3550.54] Likewise, we read, right, that faith is an assurance about what we do not see. -[3551.78 --> 3560.14] And again, that word insurance comes with a beauty as it drives us to picture, again, Christ by painting a picture of faith. -[3560.14 --> 3571.28] There's a Bible scholar who says that assurance here is a conviction that is not a static emotion of complacency, -[3571.52 --> 3573.96] but something lively and active. -[3574.66 --> 3584.14] Not just a state of immovable dogmatism, but of a vital certainty which impels the believer to stretch out his hand -[3584.14 --> 3593.40] and to lay hold of those realities on which his hope is fixed and which, though unseen, are already his in Christ. -[3595.12 --> 3596.06] Hear that. -[3596.88 --> 3600.64] Faith is a conviction that is lively and active. -[3602.10 --> 3602.66] What does that mean? -[3602.78 --> 3605.00] Faith isn't just something in your head. -[3605.00 --> 3610.52] Faith isn't even just something in your head and in your heart. -[3611.50 --> 3615.30] Faith is something that is in your head and in your heart and in your hands. -[3616.28 --> 3622.54] Faith, true faith, faith heroes' kinds of faith moves you out. -[3623.64 --> 3624.72] Out to love. -[3625.10 --> 3626.04] Out in trial. -[3626.44 --> 3627.88] Out in the face of persecution. -[3628.28 --> 3631.82] Because God is good and his love endures forever. -[3632.10 --> 3633.06] Faith works. -[3633.34 --> 3634.42] Faith does. -[3634.42 --> 3639.70] Faith tells the good news of God and then lives to reveal it. -[3643.14 --> 3647.30] Now, even as we hear all that, and as we sing the beauty of it, -[3647.70 --> 3650.60] let's recognize that that is the goal. -[3652.36 --> 3653.48] We don't always get there. -[3654.86 --> 3658.18] But that's where our hearts of faith point. -[3658.18 --> 3667.00] And so, really clearly, let me say that questions and doubts don't have to be obstacles to this kind of faith. -[3667.00 --> 3668.00] Right? -[3668.00 --> 3672.68] Questions and doubts can spur our faith deeper and broader. -[3672.68 --> 3682.82] And so, this summer, as you come and worship, as we tell stories of faith, as we look to these faith heroes, -[3682.82 --> 3691.90] I hope and pray that you will be moved into and towards a kind of faith that moves you out. -[3692.60 --> 3694.48] Moves you out of your comfort zone. -[3694.70 --> 3697.24] Moves you into the lives of other people. -[3697.24 --> 3705.16] And so, whether you camp or cottage, whether you visit with neighbors or friends, as you sit with kids or grandkids, right? -[3705.40 --> 3707.50] Tell your stories of faith. -[3707.50 --> 3712.04] It breaks my heart. -[3713.34 --> 3718.96] Breaks my heart how many times when I'm talking with people that I hear that their families, -[3719.26 --> 3724.56] the homes that they grew up in or the friends that they are part of, just don't talk about faith. -[3726.48 --> 3728.54] And maybe you read the Bible together as a family. -[3728.64 --> 3729.12] That's awesome. -[3729.26 --> 3729.66] That's great. -[3729.88 --> 3731.30] Maybe you pray together as a family. -[3731.38 --> 3731.92] That's awesome. -[3732.18 --> 3732.72] That's great. -[3733.02 --> 3736.06] Maybe you even worship together, right, with people or you study together. -[3736.06 --> 3746.84] But we need to start talking about how faith works in our lives, about if faith works in our lives. -[3747.90 --> 3752.64] Tell your kids, tell your friends, tell your co-workers about your faith. -[3752.78 --> 3756.32] Tell them your struggles, your joys, your trials, your tribulations. -[3756.54 --> 3757.36] Tell them your successes. -[3757.70 --> 3758.48] Tell them your failures. -[3759.02 --> 3764.30] Tell them when you've been on the mountaintop and tell them when you've been in the dark night of the soul. -[3764.30 --> 3771.00] Invite other people into your life and story of faith. -[3771.76 --> 3777.38] Because stories of transformation in you fuel transformation in other people. -[3777.38 --> 3794.42] When I was 19 years old, in many ways, my story is stereotypical for a number of people who were raised in the Christian church. -[3796.00 --> 3799.28] In some ways, my story maybe is a little bit more extreme. -[3799.28 --> 3806.48] When I was a teenager, I got pretty strong into recreational drug use. -[3806.68 --> 3810.02] Got pretty strong into the sort of party scene. -[3810.74 --> 3816.64] Drinking and doing all sorts of things with and to people that I should not. -[3816.64 --> 3829.56] And were it not for one man, I don't know where I would be today. -[3832.24 --> 3841.32] God used one man, Paul Vandenbrink, who was a pastor in our church, to call me back to life and faith. -[3841.32 --> 3847.20] And he did it by sitting down across from me one day and saying, -[3847.78 --> 3852.56] I am going to spend the next year walking through life with you. -[3853.38 --> 3854.52] We're going to meet weekly. -[3854.96 --> 3855.98] We're going to read the Bible. -[3856.32 --> 3858.94] And we're just going to talk about life and faith. -[3859.64 --> 3861.42] And he looked me square in the eyes and he said, -[3861.48 --> 3866.48] Chris, I'm not going to accept any of that BS that you give other people. -[3867.96 --> 3868.86] We're going to be real. -[3868.86 --> 3875.46] And over the course of that year, Jesus became alive to me. -[3876.36 --> 3879.36] Because Jesus was alive in Paul. -[3881.50 --> 3886.56] And through Paul's willingness to sit down across from me and to call me to account, -[3886.70 --> 3892.10] through Paul's willingness to hold me to a standard of faithfulness and holiness, -[3892.10 --> 3900.22] and to challenge me on that, God turned my life completely around. -[3901.88 --> 3907.08] To this day, I consider Paul a mentor and friend. -[3907.08 --> 3914.36] To this day, I thank God for his use of Paul in my life, -[3914.90 --> 3918.08] without whom I probably wouldn't be here, -[3919.08 --> 3921.00] without whom I don't know, -[3922.00 --> 3925.02] and I hesitate to think where I might be. -[3925.02 --> 3935.44] These are the kinds of stories and life together that we are invited to live today. -[3935.44 --> 3942.18] And these stories of faith, whether the Old Testament ones or the ones we live now, -[3942.28 --> 3949.60] these stories of faith stack together with the purpose of calling and carrying you towards -[3949.60 --> 3952.18] a better and lasting possession. -[3953.64 --> 3956.38] Really quickly, and this is where we're going to land this morning, -[3956.38 --> 3962.06] chapter 11 feeds directly into chapter 12. -[3962.24 --> 3965.12] And chapter 12, the first three verses says, -[3965.62 --> 3970.12] Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, -[3970.56 --> 3974.74] let us throw off everything that hinders in the sin that so easily entangles, -[3974.94 --> 3978.32] and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, -[3978.74 --> 3984.24] fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. -[3984.24 --> 3989.76] That great cloud of witnesses, right? -[3989.82 --> 3995.42] That great cloud of witnesses that is calling you to fix your eyes on Jesus, -[3995.62 --> 3997.00] the author and perfecter of your faith, -[3997.10 --> 4002.08] that great cloud of witnesses is not only these people listed in chapter 11, -[4002.98 --> 4005.60] but it is the Pauls in your life. -[4007.08 --> 4008.34] It is the mentors. -[4008.90 --> 4011.62] It is the people who have spoken truth to you. -[4011.62 --> 4014.54] It is the people who have modeled transformation to you. -[4015.80 --> 4022.14] That great cloud of witnesses is made up of the stories and lives that have shaped you, -[4022.66 --> 4025.84] stories and lives that call you towards Jesus. -[4026.10 --> 4029.10] And that's what your story does. -[4029.98 --> 4033.12] That's what makes someone a faith hero, -[4034.76 --> 4040.26] that your story is used by God to draw us closer to Jesus. -[4040.26 --> 4044.64] So we began by talking about the crisis of faith. -[4045.92 --> 4048.60] I want to reframe that as an opportunity. -[4049.66 --> 4054.10] Turn your crisis of faith into a crisis of unbelief. -[4055.30 --> 4056.52] Hear what I'm saying, right? -[4056.56 --> 4061.24] The default position of humanity since our rebellion is the rejection of God. -[4061.50 --> 4064.96] The default position of humanity because of sin in the world is unbelief. -[4064.96 --> 4071.32] And so for any desire of faith, for any amount of belief, -[4071.46 --> 4077.78] any longing for God that lives in your heart is actually a crisis of your unbelief. -[4078.66 --> 4079.26] Right? -[4079.36 --> 4081.16] Your stories are doing that. -[4082.64 --> 4086.92] And so tell your stories because they challenge my unbelief. -[4086.92 --> 4093.88] Tell your stories because they let me see God at work in the world. -[4094.10 --> 4095.92] Share life and story together. -[4096.10 --> 4098.76] And I promise you, on the conviction of God's Word, -[4098.84 --> 4102.44] the truth of Hebrews 11, feeding right into Hebrews 12, -[4102.90 --> 4104.88] that you will be transformed. -[4106.32 --> 4111.54] Stories of God's transformation in you fuel God's transformation in others. -[4111.54 --> 4116.10] And so don't rob another of God's transformation. -[4117.36 --> 4124.96] Instead, be the fuel that God uses for their being and becoming more like Jesus. -[4126.10 --> 4133.10] Be the story that calls us to fix our eyes on Him. -[4134.20 --> 4135.70] That's where we go this summer. -[4136.34 --> 4137.30] I hope you'll go with me. -[4137.94 --> 4138.64] Let's pray together. -[4141.54 --> 4146.92] Holy God, open our eyes to You. -[4147.72 --> 4152.96] Lord Jesus, move in us that we might fix our eyes on You. -[4154.16 --> 4157.20] And may it be today, may it be this summer, -[4157.76 --> 4163.96] that those around us are used by You to turn our heads towards You, -[4164.02 --> 4166.84] to turn our hearts in worship of You. -[4166.84 --> 4172.00] May we hear and share stories of You at work in the world -[4172.00 --> 4177.88] that we might be the kind of faith heroes that You have given us before. -[4177.88 --> 4185.46] And so use us, we pray, even us, to reveal You, -[4186.72 --> 4189.92] to reveal Your kingdom come and Your kingdom coming. -[4191.50 --> 4196.08] Grant us the kind of faith that goes out -[4196.08 --> 4200.24] and shares how You are at work. -[4200.24 --> 4203.10] To this end, we pray. -[4204.06 --> 4206.10] And all God's people said, Amen. -[4206.10 --> 4206.26] Amen. -[4206.26 --> 4214.44] plat Diaz -[4214.44 --> 4228.52] I do see the light of all -[4228.52 --> 4234.36] In the light of creation's grand design -[4234.36 --> 4242.36] In the light of words within His faithfulness -[4242.36 --> 4248.36] One by faith and not by sin -[4248.36 --> 4254.36] The earth of the earth -[4254.36 --> 4261.36] With the power of His promise in our own hands -[4261.36 --> 4268.36] An only city built by God's old man -[4268.36 --> 4272.86] Of peace in green and justice -[4272.86 --> 4280.36] We will stand as children of the cross -[4280.36 --> 4287.36] We will face our eyes on Him, our souls reward -[4287.36 --> 4295.36] The race is finished and the work is done -[4295.36 --> 4301.36] We will face our faith in our own hands -[4301.36 --> 4311.36] By faith the prophets saw day -[4311.36 --> 4318.36] And the long-form Messiah would be -[4318.36 --> 4324.36] The proud to break the chains of sin and death -[4324.36 --> 4330.36] And rise triumphant from the grave -[4330.36 --> 4336.36] The church was hard to call -[4336.36 --> 4342.36] The power of the Spirit to the law -[4342.36 --> 4352.36] To deliver captives and to preach good news -[4352.36 --> 4356.36] In every corner of the earth -[4356.36 --> 4362.36] We will stand as children of the cross -[4362.36 --> 4368.36] We will face our eyes on Him, our souls reward -[4368.36 --> 4376.36] Till the race is finished and the work is done -[4376.36 --> 4378.36] We will face our eyes on Him, our souls reward -[4378.36 --> 4382.36] Through our faith and not by sin -[4382.36 --> 4392.36] Through our faith the mountains shall be moved -[4392.36 --> 4398.36] And the power of the gospel shall prevail -[4398.36 --> 4405.36] Where we know Christ all things are possible -[4405.36 --> 4413.36] Wherever we know in Christ all things are possible -[4413.36 --> 4415.36] For our moment in our own hands -[4415.36 --> 4421.36] We will find our children of Him, our souls reward -[4421.36 --> 4423.36] eyes on him -[4425.36 --> 4433.36] till the race is finished and the work is done -[4433.36 --> 4437.36] by faith and not myself -[4437.36 --> 4443.36] we will stand as children of the power -[4443.36 --> 4449.36] we will fix our eyes on him -[4449.36 --> 4459.36] till the race is finished and the work is done -[4459.36 --> 4465.36] we will walk by faith and not myself -[4465.36 --> 4471.36] we will walk by faith and not myself -[4471.36 --> 4481.36] as you go go in -[4481.36 --> 4483.36] faith go with -[4483.36 --> 4485.36] God himself who goes -[4485.36 --> 4487.36] with you before -[4487.36 --> 4489.36] we receive God's blessing if -[4489.36 --> 4491.36] you would like prayer -[4491.36 --> 4493.36] or to meet with someone to -[4493.36 --> 4495.36] with -[4495.36 --> 4497.36] there will be someone here at the front with a -[4497.36 --> 4499.36] name tag like this with a yellow box on it -[4499.36 --> 4501.36] they would love to meet you and to -[4501.36 --> 4503.36] air prayer with you -[4503.36 --> 4507.36] let's receive God's blessing together -[4507.36 --> 4511.36] God go before -[4511.36 --> 4513.36] you to lead you -[4513.36 --> 4515.36] God go behind you -[4515.36 --> 4517.36] to protect you -[4517.36 --> 4519.36] God go beneath you to support you -[4519.36 --> 4521.36] God go beside you -[4521.36 --> 4523.36] to befriend you -[4523.36 --> 4525.36] do not be afraid -[4525.36 --> 4527.36] let the blessing of God the Father -[4527.36 --> 4529.36] Son and Holy Spirit come upon you -[4529.36 --> 4531.36] I want you today -[4531.36 --> 4533.36] do not be afraid -[4533.36 --> 4535.36] but go in peace -[4535.36 --> 4537.36] to love and serve the Lord -[4537.36 --> 4539.36] Amen -[4539.36 --> 4541.36] Amen -[4569.36 --> 4571.36] come invade us now -[4571.36 --> 4577.36] we are the church -[4577.36 --> 4581.36] we need your power -[4581.36 --> 4583.36] and I -[4583.36 --> 4587.36] we sing your kingdom first -[4587.36 --> 4591.36] we hunger and we thirst -[4591.36 --> 4595.36] refuse to waste our lives -[4595.36 --> 4597.36] for your joy and pride -[4597.36 --> 4602.36] to seek the captains' hearts -[4602.36 --> 4604.36] reach the birth -[4604.36 --> 4606.36] the seed of glory -[4606.36 --> 4609.36] even our lives -[4609.36 --> 4611.36] forever dies -[4611.36 --> 4617.36] we are the church -[4617.36 --> 4623.36] we pray revive his name -[4623.36 --> 4625.36] we pray -[4625.36 --> 4627.36] we pray -[4627.36 --> 4629.36] we pray -[4629.36 --> 4630.36] build your feet -[4630.36 --> 4631.36] out here -[4631.36 --> 4635.36] let the darkness fear -[4635.36 --> 4639.36] show your mighty hand -[4639.36 --> 4642.36] heal our streets and land -[4642.36 --> 4646.36] send your church on cloud -[4646.36 --> 4649.36] bring this nation back -[4649.36 --> 4651.36] change the atmosphere -[4651.36 --> 4653.36] build your kingdom in -[4653.36 --> 4655.36] we pray -[4655.36 --> 4657.36] build your kingdom in -[4657.36 --> 4659.36] we pray -[4659.36 --> 4661.36] we pray -[4661.36 --> 4667.36] unleash your kingdom's power -[4667.36 --> 4671.36] we breathe in near and far -[4671.36 --> 4673.36] the force of hell can stop -[4673.36 --> 4677.36] your beautiful changing hearts -[4677.36 --> 4679.36] you've made us -[4679.36 --> 4680.36] you've made us -[4680.36 --> 4682.36] more for more than this -[4682.36 --> 4684.36] awake the kingdom -[4684.36 --> 4686.36] seed in us -[4686.36 --> 4688.36] fill us with the strength -[4688.36 --> 4692.36] in love of Christ -[4692.36 --> 4696.36] we are the church -[4696.36 --> 4702.36] we have the hope on earth -[4702.36 --> 4704.36] we pray -[4704.36 --> 4706.36] we pray -[4706.36 --> 4707.36] we pray -[4707.36 --> 4710.36] build your kingdom here -[4710.36 --> 4713.36] let the darkness fear -[4713.36 --> 4717.36] show your mighty hand -[4717.36 --> 4720.36] fill us sweet and light -[4720.36 --> 4723.36] send your church on fire -[4723.36 --> 4725.36] bring this nation back -[4725.36 --> 4727.36] let the darkness fear -[4727.36 --> 4728.36] change the atmosphere -[4728.36 --> 4732.36] build your kingdom here -[4732.36 --> 4734.36] build your kingdom here -[4734.36 --> 4736.36] build your kingdom here -[4736.36 --> 4738.36] build your kingdom here -[4738.36 --> 4740.36] let the darkness fear -[4740.36 --> 4742.36] let the darkness fear -[4742.36 --> 4745.36] show your mighty hand -[4745.36 --> 4746.36] fill us sweet and land -[4746.36 --> 4747.36] send your church on fire -[4747.36 --> 4749.36] ole into our taint -[4749.36 --> 4752.36] camino perceive and land -[4752.36 --> 4753.06] let the meiner ladente -[4753.36 --> 4754.36] you have to -[4754.36 --> 4755.10] sense of your heritage -[4755.10 --> 4758.36] brave and -[4777.36 --> 4807.34] Thank you. -[4807.36 --> 4837.34] Thank you. -[4837.36 --> 4867.34] Thank you. -[4867.36 --> 4869.36] Thank you. -[4869.36 --> 4871.36] Thank you. -[4871.36 --> 4873.36] Thank you. -[4873.36 --> 4875.36] Thank you. -[4875.36 --> 4879.36] Thank you. -[4879.36 --> 4881.36] Thank you. -[4881.36 --> 4883.36] Thank you. -[4883.36 --> 4889.36] Thank you. -[4889.36 --> 4893.36] Thank you. -[4893.36 --> 4895.36] That worked out okay. -[4923.36 --> 4928.36] Turn it off for me. -[4953.36 --> 4983.34] Thank you. -[4983.36 --> 5013.34] Thank you. -[5013.36 --> 5043.34] Thank you. -[5043.36 --> 5073.34] Thank you. -[5073.36 --> 5103.34] Thank you. -[5103.36 --> 5133.34] Thank you. -[5133.36 --> 5163.34] Thank you. -[5163.36 --> 5193.34] Thank you. -[5193.36 --> 5223.34] Thank you. -[5223.36 --> 5253.34] Thank you. -[5253.36 --> 5283.34] Thank you. -[5283.36 --> 5313.34] Thank you. -[5313.36 --> 5343.34] Thank you. -[5343.36 --> 5373.34] Thank you. -[5373.36 --> 5403.34] Thank you. -[5403.36 --> 5433.34] Thank you. -[5433.36 --> 5463.34] Thank you. -[5463.36 --> 5493.34] Thank you. -[5493.36 --> 5523.34] Thank you. -[5523.36 --> 5553.34] Thank you. -[5553.36 --> 5583.34] Thank you. -[5583.36 --> 5613.34] Thank you. -[5613.36 --> 5643.34] Thank you. -[5643.36 --> 5673.34] Thank you. -[5673.36 --> 5703.34] Thank you. -[5703.36 --> 5733.34] Thank you. -[5733.36 --> 5763.34] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 23, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 23, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index e903d7ae80436473b4884b283cb75ef0b5ac644c..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 23, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,74 +0,0 @@ -• Creation and the authorship of God -• The Lordship of God over every man -• The cry of love ringing out across the land -• The birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ -• The Trinity: Father, Son, and Spirit -• Redemption and reconciliation through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross -• The kingdom of heaven and its closeness to humanity -• Living a life of justice, mercy, and humility in service to God -• Introduction to worship service -• Call to worship from Ephesians 1, praising God for spiritual blessings -• Invitation to come and worship -• Song: "Come all you weary, come all you thirsty" -• Reflection on Acts 3, verse 19, repentance, and refreshing from the Lord -• Prayer of rededication and confession -• The importance of observing a day of rest and its relation to the goal of life -• The value of resting in God's goodness and enjoying His accomplishments through Jesus -• Praise and worship of God's goodness, faithfulness, and love -• Surrendering one's life to God and living with Him every breath -• Adoration of God's uniqueness and holiness -• A congregation welcomes a refugee family who has been accepted as asylum seekers -• The family shares their gratitude for the church's support, including Pastor Chris and Kevin's help in finding a host family, John and Pearl Denhaan -• The congregation is informed about another refugee family, the Niemers from Syria, whose application with World Renew is being processed -• A collection is taken to cover the costs of sponsoring the Niemer family -• Next week's offering will be for Advocate (Hope for Women Pregnancy Services) -• Worship song with repetitive lyrics about the glory of God -• Invitation for children aged 3-5 to come to the front for a blessing and worship time -• Children's blessing and worship time -• Congregation prayer led by Sarah, including requests for healing for Daniel Howling's father -• The congregation is prayed for, including those physically present and absent due to vacation, work, or other responsibilities. -• Safety is requested for those traveling during summer break. -• A spiritual rest is sought, surpassing physical and mental exhaustion, through disciplined rhythms with God. -• Prayers are offered for specific individuals, including Daniel Howell's father in the hospital, Louise Condon's strained relationships, Amy Bonkers' corneal transplant surgery, and others experiencing health issues or family struggles. -• The congregation lifts up praises and thanks for those recovering from hospital stays, such as Class Teesmaker and Ellen White. -• General prayers are offered for those caring for aging parents, those in chronic pain or struggling with mental health, and those mourning the loss of loved ones. -• The importance of building up and supporting one another in the community -• The story of Noah, including his righteousness and God's command to build an ark -• The concept of faith heroes in the Bible, specifically those listed in Hebrews 11 -• The role of community and connection in growing in faith and encouraging others -• The need for perseverance and not giving up meeting together as a community -• The decline of traditional Christian values in Western society, particularly in Canada -• The importance of building strong faith communities to support individuals in their spiritual journey -• The need for Christians to be bold and take an active role in their faith, rather than minimizing their involvement -• The changing societal expectations around Christianity, where being a Christian is now seen as a liability rather than a positive trait -• The story of Noah from the book of Hebrews, which illustrates the importance of having a "cloud of witnesses" (a supportive community) to hold us up and spur us forward in our faith. -• The story of Noah and the dove is recounted as a sign that the waters have receded. -• God makes a promise to never destroy all living creatures again after seeing the rainbow. -• God's grief over human sin is explained, clarifying that he is not disappointed by it because he knew it would happen. -• The difference between disappointment and grief is discussed, with the pastor explaining that god's heart is grieved by humanity's sin. -• The motivation behind God's actions is his grieving heart, which longs for people to be close to him and experience salvation. -• The story of Noah is centered around God's remembering his people -• The rainbow sign represents God's covenant promise to never destroy the world again -• Noah's faith is commended as an example for Christians, showing that he took God's word seriously and acted accordingly -• Noah stood firm in obedience even when the whole world thought him crazy -• Faith is confidence in what we hope for, based on the sure future promised by God -• The story of Noah points to Jesus Christ as the ark of salvation and a promise of new creation -• The story of Noah and his obedience to God despite ridicule from the world -• Comparison between Noah's time and modern times, where obedience to God is seen as counterintuitive and absurd by those who don't understand -• The tendency for people to react defensively when called out on their disobedience, labeling others as judgmental or hypocritical -• An example of a friend, Craig, who modeled faithful obedience in response to God's call, despite what the world around him thought he should be like -• The impact of Craig's death and funeral on the speaker, and how it has influenced his thoughts on remembering God and living a life of obedience -• Story of Noah's faith and obedience -• Craig's story as a faith hero example -• Radical obedience and bold proclamation -• Remembering one's creator and persevering in faith -• Prayer for boldness and living lives that proclaim the gospel -• Song: "How Great Thou Art" -• Reflection on God's love and redemption through Jesus Christ -• Invitation to connect with others after worship service -• Invocations of God's protection and blessing -• Description of Jesus as the Lamb and Lion of Judah -• Prophecy of judgment and reign at the end of the age -• Celebration of Jesus' kingship and victory -• Reference to angels crying out in praise -• Expressions of worship and thanksgiving \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 23, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 23, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 4957585cf91e58d3e0ed9309b635d5888237bb82..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 23, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1026 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 9.22] Now you stand before the banner, interceding for your own. -[9.72 --> 17.00] From each tribe and tongue and nation, you are leading sinners home. -[19.42 --> 22.80] You're the author of creation. -[23.62 --> 27.04] You're the Lord of every man. -[27.04 --> 33.10] And your cry of love rings out across the land. -[34.90 --> 38.84] You're the author of creation. -[39.72 --> 43.08] You're the Lord of every man. -[43.66 --> 49.40] And your cry of love rings out across the land. -[57.04 --> 87.02] You're the Lord of every man. -[87.04 --> 117.02] You're the Lord of every man. -[117.02 --> 119.68] From that darkness we were waiting. -[120.32 --> 123.38] Without hope, without light. -[124.08 --> 126.78] Till from heaven you came running. -[127.36 --> 130.74] There was mercy in your arms. -[131.02 --> 134.06] To fulfill the law and promise. -[134.06 --> 137.06] To a virgin came the word. -[137.06 --> 141.04] From a throne of endless glory. -[141.04 --> 144.04] To a cradle in the dirt. -[144.04 --> 145.04] Praise the Father. -[145.04 --> 146.04] Praise the Son. -[146.04 --> 148.04] Praise the Spirit. -[148.04 --> 153.04] Praise the Father. -[153.04 --> 155.04] Praise the Son. -[155.04 --> 157.04] Praise the Spirit. -[157.04 --> 161.04] Praise the Spirit. -[161.04 --> 164.04] Three in one. -[164.04 --> 165.72] Praise the Son. -[165.72 --> 168.90] Praise the Spirit. -[168.90 --> 169.72] 1968. -[169.72 --> 171.76] Praise the Lord. -[171.76 --> 173.92] Praise the Spirit. -[173.92 --> 174.82] Praise the Lord. -[174.82 --> 176.32] Praise the Son. -[176.32 --> 179.36] of His. -[182.96 --> 186.86] To reveal the kingdom coming -[186.86 --> 190.34] and to reconcile the lost, -[190.90 --> 193.84] to redeem the whole creation, -[194.40 --> 197.46] you did not despise the cross. -[197.46 --> 201.10] For even in your suffering, -[201.50 --> 204.52] you sought to the other side, -[204.52 --> 207.94] knowing this was our salvation, -[208.54 --> 211.76] Jesus, for our sake you died. -[217.76 --> 224.28] Praise the Father, praise the Son, -[224.28 --> 231.28] praise the Spirit, three in one. -[231.28 --> 237.74] God of glory, majesty, -[238.74 --> 246.34] praise forever to the King of kings. -[246.34 --> 253.96] In the morning that He rose, -[253.96 --> 257.48] all of heaven held its breath, -[257.48 --> 260.92] till that stone was moved for good, -[261.30 --> 264.62] for the Lamb had conquered death. -[264.62 --> 268.10] And the dead rose from their tombs, -[268.10 --> 271.58] and the angels stood in awe. -[271.58 --> 275.14] For the souls of all who'd come -[275.14 --> 278.64] to the Father are restored. -[279.08 --> 282.12] And the church of Christ was born, -[282.62 --> 285.74] then the Spirit lit the flame. -[285.74 --> 289.20] Now this gospel truth of old, -[289.20 --> 290.92] shall not kneel, -[290.92 --> 292.76] shall not faint. -[292.76 --> 296.32] By His blood and in His name, -[296.32 --> 299.70] in His freedom I am free. -[299.70 --> 303.38] For the love of Jesus Christ, -[303.38 --> 307.76] who has resurrected me. -[307.76 --> 316.22] Praise the Father, -[316.22 --> 319.22] praise the Son, -[319.22 --> 323.32] praise the Spirit, -[323.32 --> 326.82] three in one. -[326.82 --> 333.00] God of glory, majesty, -[333.00 --> 334.78] praise the Son, -[334.78 --> 340.90] praise forever to the King of kings. -[340.90 --> 348.34] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[363.00 --> 381.42] and the King of kings. -[381.42 --> 385.04] And the King of kings is operated, -[385.04 --> 387.06] to the Holy, -[387.06 --> 390.52] and the ace member of kings is -[390.52 --> 390.70] cam Wardah, -[390.70 --> 391.52] many rojits -[391.52 --> 392.64] with reminder of the King of kings. -[392.64 --> 395.88] above all things. -[395.88 --> 404.98] Act justly, love mercy, walk humbly with you, God. -[405.54 --> 414.34] In all things, in all ways, walk humbly with you, God. -[415.10 --> 422.62] It all comes down to this, to be your hands and feet. -[422.64 --> 427.84] Good news to all the world. -[428.62 --> 432.90] Oh, the truth will set us free. -[433.86 --> 442.22] Act justly, love mercy, walk humbly with you, God. -[442.90 --> 451.64] In all things, in all ways, walk humbly with you, God. -[451.64 --> 456.84] It's beauty for ashes, it's mourning and dancing. -[457.22 --> 461.52] It's closer and closer, the kingdom of heaven. -[461.96 --> 466.10] Beauty for ashes, it's mourning and dancing. -[466.54 --> 470.84] It's closer and closer, the kingdom of heaven. -[470.84 --> 484.04] And years from now, we'll see. -[484.04 --> 488.30] The fruit our hands are sown. -[489.86 --> 492.78] Faith just like a seed. -[492.78 --> 499.20] The only way it grows. -[499.20 --> 499.22] The only way it grows. -[499.22 --> 517.22] Ecstasy, love mercy, walk humbly with you, God. -[517.22 --> 526.64] In all things, in all ways, walk humbly with you, God. -[526.64 --> 527.64] Amen. -[556.64 --> 558.64] Amen. -[586.64 --> 588.64] Amen. -[616.64 --> 626.42] Stay away. -[626.42 --> 628.88] How about now? -[628.88 --> 630.88] How about... -[630.88 --> 649.52] It's all right. -[649.52 --> 651.72] It shouldn't be. -[651.94 --> 652.66] Oh, there we go. -[653.56 --> 653.96] Yay. -[657.56 --> 658.56] Way to go, Courtney. -[658.84 --> 659.22] All right. -[660.88 --> 661.88] I'm... -[661.88 --> 664.02] Wes gave me two thumbs up, so that must mean it's working. -[665.24 --> 665.72] Okay. -[666.02 --> 666.78] Good morning. -[668.42 --> 670.46] Welcome to the entertainment. -[671.66 --> 672.72] My name is Chris. -[672.84 --> 679.46] If you're a visitor here, I'm one of the pastors, and as we gather for worship, we come as those -[679.46 --> 682.00] who need God and who rely on Him. -[682.08 --> 687.50] We come to sing His praises and to hear from Him, and so I just want to thank you for joining -[687.50 --> 690.30] us this Sunday for worship. -[690.88 --> 696.40] As we gather together, we are welcomed by God, and we do so in community. -[696.86 --> 701.02] And so I'm going to invite you to stand, that we can receive God's greeting. -[701.66 --> 705.60] And then following God's greeting, I'm going to just encourage you to turn to those around -[705.60 --> 708.56] you and welcome them into worship as well. -[708.56 --> 711.78] And so, receive the greeting of our good God. -[713.28 --> 720.00] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, His Son, -[720.26 --> 724.24] and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[724.24 --> 725.72] Amen. -[725.72 --> 725.76] Amen. -[725.96 --> 726.08] Amen. -[726.08 --> 728.50] I'm父, focused on this Shaddai, the glory, and what we may call you and worship and to the Lord Jesus Christ, -[728.50 --> 736.68] and to be here group in the Lord Jesus Christ, and to be here group in the Lord Jesus Christ, -[736.68 --> 750.58] and to be here group in the Lord Jesus Christ, Naünüz, and to be here. -[750.58 --> 765.52] Our call to worship this morning is coming from Ephesians 1, -[765.98 --> 767.18] where it says, -[767.40 --> 771.22] Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, -[771.54 --> 774.02] who has blessed us in the heavenly realms -[774.02 --> 776.98] with every spiritual blessing in Christ. -[776.98 --> 781.18] For he chose us in him before the creation of the world -[781.18 --> 784.26] to be holy and blameless in his sight. -[785.02 --> 791.02] In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ -[791.02 --> 794.40] in accordance with his pleasure and will. -[795.28 --> 798.90] Let's raise our voices and worship our heavenly Father this morning -[798.90 --> 802.42] who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in Christ. -[806.98 --> 826.90] Come all you weary, come all you thirsty, -[826.90 --> 831.74] Come to the well that never comes to life, -[831.96 --> 837.76] Drink of the water, come and thirst no more. -[841.04 --> 845.70] Come all you sinners, come all you thirsty, -[846.20 --> 850.38] Come to the stable he wills at his throne, -[850.38 --> 856.62] Taste all his goodness, find what your earth will be for. -[856.62 --> 886.60] Come and worship不能, -[886.60 --> 893.88] is -[910.04 --> 911.88] pong -[916.60 --> 931.56] For all came, forever defeated, now it is found, a walking in freedom for God so loved, God so loved the world. -[931.56 --> 951.56] Praise God, praise God, from whom all blessings flow, praise Him, praise Him, for the wonders of His love. -[951.56 --> 970.56] Praise God, praise God, round through all blessings flow, praise Him, praise Him, for the wonders of His love. -[970.56 --> 1000.54] For all came, forever defeated, now it is found, a walking in freedom for God so loved, God so loved, the world that He gave us is one and only time to save us. -[1000.54 --> 1017.54] For all came, forever defeated, now it is found, a walking in freedom for God so loved, God so loved, the world. -[1017.54 --> 1035.54] Bring all your failures, bring your attentions, come lay them down at the foot of the cross, Jesus is waiting, God so loved, the world. -[1035.54 --> 1037.54] Amen. -[1037.54 --> 1039.54] Amen. -[1067.54 --> 1069.54] Amen. -[1097.54 --> 1099.54] Amen. -[1127.54 --> 1129.54] Amen. -[1157.54 --> 1159.54] Amen. -[1187.54 --> 1189.54] Amen. -[1217.54 --> 1218.84] You may be seated. -[1223.84 --> 1226.18] Acts 3, verse 19 says, -[1226.90 --> 1231.60] Repent then and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, -[1232.38 --> 1235.02] that times of refreshing may come from the Lord. -[1236.30 --> 1239.16] For me, the summer has always been a time of refreshing, -[1239.84 --> 1244.20] but more a refreshment from, like, daily routines -[1244.20 --> 1248.00] and a time to kind of refocus and re-energize. -[1248.62 --> 1252.58] But I rarely think of it as a time of spiritual refreshing. -[1252.80 --> 1253.12] I don't know. -[1253.40 --> 1258.26] Life has been busy, and so you kind of relax from your daily routine, -[1258.40 --> 1260.18] but I don't see it so much that way. -[1261.40 --> 1264.60] But I was wondering if we could do, as Acts was saying, -[1264.84 --> 1267.94] repent and turn to God so that our sins may be wiped out, -[1268.28 --> 1270.38] that times of refreshing may come from the Lord. -[1270.38 --> 1275.36] I think then we can enjoy everything Christ has accomplished for us, -[1275.46 --> 1277.98] and we can rest in the victory that he's won. -[1279.30 --> 1281.62] Now, Doreen and I have been reading a book called -[1281.62 --> 1283.76] Seeking God's Face for Our Devotions, -[1284.18 --> 1288.06] and I found a prayer that kind of I've been reflecting on, -[1288.12 --> 1289.88] kind of chewing on the last sort of month, -[1290.54 --> 1295.98] and I would like to use that as a prayer of rededication kind of -[1295.98 --> 1297.14] and confession. -[1299.08 --> 1300.16] Let's bow in prayer. -[1300.38 --> 1302.48] Lord of the Sabbath, -[1303.42 --> 1308.02] we can faithfully observe a day of rest and yet miss its point. -[1308.96 --> 1310.98] Your rest is the goal of life. -[1311.22 --> 1313.68] It's what you intended for all of creation, -[1313.92 --> 1316.80] to know you and to enjoy all your goodness. -[1317.64 --> 1320.46] Thank you for the gospel invitation to catch our breath, -[1321.06 --> 1323.06] to stop all our striving, -[1323.06 --> 1326.40] and to enjoy everything accomplished for us in Jesus. -[1326.92 --> 1328.14] In his name we pray. -[1328.50 --> 1328.78] Amen. -[1330.38 --> 1333.48] Let's rise together and sing of God's goodness. -[1333.48 --> 1335.42] Imp Spielımız -[1335.42 --> 1365.40] piano plays softly -[1365.42 --> 1370.04] Oh, your mercy never fails me -[1370.04 --> 1376.12] All my days I've been held in your hands -[1376.12 --> 1380.24] From the moment that I wake up -[1380.24 --> 1383.60] Till I lay my head -[1383.60 --> 1389.46] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1389.46 --> 1396.16] All my life you have been faithful -[1396.16 --> 1403.46] All my life you have been so solid -[1403.46 --> 1409.38] With every breath that I have made for -[1409.38 --> 1416.08] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1416.08 --> 1419.34] You're born -[1419.34 --> 1424.84] You have led me through my road -[1424.84 --> 1427.10] And I miss you -[1427.10 --> 1430.46] You are close like no other -[1430.46 --> 1433.94] I know you as a father -[1433.94 --> 1438.10] I know you as a friend -[1438.10 --> 1443.84] And I will sing of the goodness of God -[1443.84 --> 1450.54] And all my life you have been faithful -[1450.54 --> 1458.84] And all my life you have been so, so good -[1458.84 --> 1463.34] With every breath that I have made for -[1463.34 --> 1469.96] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1469.96 --> 1475.08] Your goodness is running out -[1475.08 --> 1477.96] It's running out with me -[1477.96 --> 1481.56] Your goodness is running out -[1481.56 --> 1484.46] It's running out with me -[1484.46 --> 1486.60] With my life laid down -[1486.60 --> 1488.28] I'll surrender now -[1488.28 --> 1491.16] I'll kill you every day -[1491.16 --> 1494.58] Your goodness is running out -[1494.58 --> 1497.28] It's running out to me -[1497.28 --> 1501.20] Your goodness is running out -[1501.20 --> 1503.88] It's running out to me -[1503.88 --> 1505.70] Your goodness is running out -[1505.70 --> 1507.62] Your goodness is running out -[1507.62 --> 1510.28] It's running out to me -[1510.28 --> 1512.52] My life laid down -[1512.52 --> 1514.18] I'll surrender now -[1514.18 --> 1516.14] I'll give you everything -[1516.14 --> 1520.44] Your goodness is running out -[1520.44 --> 1523.54] It's running out to me -[1523.54 --> 1533.64] You have been faithful -[1533.64 --> 1542.14] All my life you have been so, so good -[1542.14 --> 1546.16] And every breath that I am able -[1546.16 --> 1552.64] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1552.64 --> 1559.08] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1559.08 --> 1559.66] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1559.66 --> 1566.10] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1566.10 --> 1574.54] Worthy of all the praise we could ever bring -[1574.54 --> 1588.98] Worthy of every breath we could ever bring -[1588.98 --> 1601.42] Worthy of every breath we could ever bring -[1601.42 --> 1603.42] We live with you -[1603.42 --> 1615.86] Jesus, the name of every breath we could ever bring -[1615.86 --> 1622.80] Jesus, the only one who could ever sing -[1622.80 --> 1628.92] Worthy of every breath we could ever bring -[1628.92 --> 1630.36] We live with you -[1630.36 --> 1631.36] We live with you -[1631.36 --> 1632.36] We live with you -[1632.36 --> 1633.36] We live with you -[1633.36 --> 1634.36] We live with you -[1634.36 --> 1641.80] Holy, there is no one like you -[1641.80 --> 1645.08] There is none beside you -[1645.08 --> 1649.64] Open up my eyes in wonder -[1649.64 --> 1651.08] And show me -[1651.08 --> 1653.20] And show me who you are -[1653.20 --> 1654.90] And fill me -[1654.90 --> 1656.08] With your heart -[1656.08 --> 1658.08] And lead me -[1658.08 --> 1664.08] In your heart to those around me -[1664.08 --> 1674.52] Jesus, the name of every breath we could ever bring -[1674.52 --> 1676.96] Jesus, the name of every breath we could ever bring -[1676.96 --> 1681.96] Jesus, the only one who could ever sing -[1681.96 --> 1687.96] Worthy of every breath we could ever bring -[1687.96 --> 1688.96] We live with you -[1688.96 --> 1690.96] We live with you -[1690.96 --> 1693.96] We live with you -[1693.96 --> 1701.24] Holy, there is no one like you -[1701.24 --> 1704.68] There is none beside you -[1704.68 --> 1708.68] Open up my eyes in wonder -[1708.68 --> 1712.56] And show me who you are -[1712.56 --> 1715.82] And fill me with your heart -[1715.82 --> 1717.46] And lead me -[1717.46 --> 1722.36] In your love to hold around me -[1722.36 --> 1752.34] I will, will, will, by my heart -[1752.34 --> 1755.08] Upon your love -[1755.08 --> 1759.78] It is a birth foundation -[1759.78 --> 1764.78] And I will, will, by my heart -[1764.78 --> 1767.90] Give you a love -[1767.90 --> 1773.16] And I will not be shaken -[1773.16 --> 1777.66] And I will, will, by my heart -[1777.66 --> 1780.78] Upon your love -[1780.78 --> 1790.22] There is no one like you -[1790.22 --> 1793.22] There is none beside you -[1793.22 --> 1806.66] There is none beside you -[1806.66 --> 1810.66] Open up my eyes in wonder -[1810.66 --> 1815.66] And show me who you are -[1815.66 --> 1818.66] And fill me with your heart -[1818.66 --> 1825.10] And your love to hold around me -[1825.10 --> 1828.60] I will, will, by my heart -[1828.60 --> 1851.14] Good morning, congregation. -[1852.46 --> 1855.34] I'm here on behalf of the deacons. -[1855.46 --> 1856.38] Clem will be up shortly. -[1856.38 --> 1862.38] First of all, I just want to acknowledge that I'm here representing the Refugee Sponsorship Committee. -[1863.16 --> 1867.44] But we've got some very special guests with us this morning. -[1868.18 --> 1876.44] And so Sebastian and Sandy, why don't you stand up with Sarah and your little daughter there, Julieta? -[1877.12 --> 1878.00] Can you stand? -[1878.24 --> 1878.76] All right. -[1879.88 --> 1883.10] So they, yes, it's good to see you here. -[1883.10 --> 1886.98] All right. -[1887.02 --> 1889.10] I'm just going to read the letter that you gave to Pearl. -[1889.28 --> 1889.70] All right. -[1889.74 --> 1890.80] So you may sit down. -[1891.10 --> 1897.08] So 16 months ago today, we arrived to the doors of the church looking for help for our family. -[1897.08 --> 1901.44] Very kindly, Pastor Chris and Kevin were willing to take us in. -[1901.98 --> 1908.84] And even though the language barrier was hard, they listened to us attentively, trying to find a solution. -[1909.38 --> 1911.30] And after many phone calls, they formed us. -[1911.38 --> 1913.68] There was a family willing to offer a space in their home. -[1913.70 --> 1915.30] And that was John and Pearl Denhaan. -[1915.30 --> 1921.74] Anyway, the following weekend, we went to church and everyone there welcomed us with a smile. -[1921.92 --> 1926.58] Others with a hug, wishing that everything would be just fine for our family. -[1927.36 --> 1931.08] The long language was not an impediment to feeling blessed. -[1932.40 --> 1936.08] There's other acknowledgements in this thing, so I'll just kind of shorten it a bit. -[1936.08 --> 1941.34] There are many of you we would like to thank, but we do not remember your name. -[1941.46 --> 1943.58] Even so, you will always be in our hearts. -[1943.96 --> 1946.48] Thanks for being so unconditional with our family. -[1947.26 --> 1951.30] Today, we'd love to share with you a very exciting and joyful news. -[1951.84 --> 1955.18] On January 31, we went to court and we were accepted. -[1955.84 --> 1960.18] So they came here not as refugees but as asylum seekers. -[1960.18 --> 1966.74] Anyway, we are currently in the process of permanent residence, so this is a very important step they've made. -[1967.12 --> 1969.62] And we feel blessed for being able to make it. -[1969.94 --> 1975.74] We indeed have a merciful God and truly appreciate each and every one of you for your prayers. -[1976.32 --> 1982.08] Of course, especially to John and Pearl, who housed them, and for bringing us the opportunity of meeting them -[1982.08 --> 1986.08] and gifting us their help and patience for this dream to become real. -[1986.08 --> 1992.08] So this is a blessing to all of us as a church, you know, and we feel it and we experience it. -[1992.24 --> 1993.30] And we love you. -[1993.82 --> 1997.18] Yeah, thank you very much for this beautiful, beautiful letter. -[1997.68 --> 1998.88] It's a wonderful ministry. -[1999.44 --> 2001.82] Let's give them another warm welcome. -[2006.82 --> 2012.44] So we currently are in negotiations with World Renew at application for the Niemer family. -[2012.44 --> 2016.14] This is a mother and father who are stuck in Lebanon from Syria. -[2016.44 --> 2020.06] And they have two children, a girl 14, a boy 11. -[2020.82 --> 2026.76] And we expect that within the year, probably closer to a year, they will be arriving. -[2027.62 --> 2029.90] World Renew has a very high success rate. -[2030.06 --> 2032.62] Their application has been accepted by Canada. -[2032.62 --> 2039.62] And so it just needs some in-depth looking into and making sure they meet all the criteria. -[2039.84 --> 2041.62] So it looks very, very good. -[2041.94 --> 2043.90] So we're going to need money for that, of course. -[2044.10 --> 2045.96] And that's why today's collection. -[2046.62 --> 2049.60] So we have about 15,000 in the bank. -[2050.06 --> 2051.98] We probably need close to 40. -[2052.54 --> 2054.72] And so there's going to be a huge need. -[2054.78 --> 2056.86] But this congregation has always met the need. -[2057.34 --> 2061.22] God works in our hearts to give us when we're ready to give. -[2061.22 --> 2063.48] So thank you. -[2067.86 --> 2068.74] Thanks, Peter. -[2070.04 --> 2070.96] Thank you, Peter. -[2072.72 --> 2073.54] Good morning. -[2073.62 --> 2074.44] My name is Clem. -[2075.30 --> 2081.08] And next week's offering is for Advocate, also known as Hope for Women Pregnancy Services. -[2082.52 --> 2087.60] And, yeah, they service so many women in the community, especially these days. -[2087.60 --> 2090.12] And thank you for your continued giving. -[2090.12 --> 2090.22] Thank you. -[2090.22 --> 2090.28] Thank you. -[2090.28 --> 2090.30] Thank you. -[2117.60 --> 2118.88] Thank you. -[2130.46 --> 2141.80] Thank you. -[2141.80 --> 2146.08] Heaven's mercy see -[2146.08 --> 2152.02] Worthy is love -[2152.02 --> 2155.48] Lamb who was slain -[2155.48 --> 2159.32] Holy, holy is He -[2159.32 --> 2165.08] Sing a new song -[2165.08 --> 2168.28] To Him who's hit song -[2168.28 --> 2172.38] Heaven's mercy see -[2172.38 --> 2177.98] Holy, holy, holy -[2177.98 --> 2180.84] Is our Lord God Almighty -[2180.84 --> 2186.28] Who was and is and is and is and is and is -[2186.28 --> 2191.12] With all creation I sing -[2191.12 --> 2194.10] Thanks to the King of Kings -[2194.10 --> 2196.80] You are my everything -[2196.80 --> 2200.90] And I will adore you -[2200.90 --> 2216.80] Oh, the great bones -[2217.48 --> 2219.46] Of living color -[2219.46 --> 2222.46] Flashes of lightning -[2222.46 --> 2224.56] Flashes of lightning -[2224.56 --> 2228.60] Blessing and honor -[2228.60 --> 2229.96] Strengthen -[2229.96 --> 2232.56] Glory and power be -[2232.56 --> 2237.56] To the only wise me -[2237.56 --> 2240.46] Let's rise and sing -[2240.56 --> 2242.72] Behold, be holy -[2242.72 --> 2245.82] Is the Lord God Almighty -[2245.82 --> 2249.04] Who was and is and is and is -[2249.04 --> 2250.24] To run -[2250.24 --> 2256.10] For all creation I sing -[2256.10 --> 2258.82] Praise to the King of Kings -[2258.82 --> 2261.82] You are my everything -[2261.82 --> 2265.92] And I will adore you -[2265.92 --> 2280.92] Filled with wonder -[2280.92 --> 2285.02] Awestruck wonder -[2285.02 --> 2291.02] At the mention of your name -[2291.02 --> 2295.02] Filled with wonder -[2295.02 --> 2298.02] Awestruck wonder -[2298.02 --> 2304.02] At the mention of your name -[2304.02 --> 2306.12] Jesus -[2306.12 --> 2307.12] Jesus -[2307.12 --> 2308.12] Jesus -[2308.12 --> 2309.12] Your kingdom's power -[2309.12 --> 2312.12] Every living water -[2312.12 --> 2316.12] Such a marvelous mystery -[2316.12 --> 2322.12] Holy, holy, holy -[2322.12 --> 2325.12] Is thy Lord God Almighty -[2325.12 --> 2330.12] Who all the years and years will come -[2330.12 --> 2335.52] With all creation I sing -[2335.52 --> 2338.22] Praise to the King of Kings -[2338.22 --> 2341.22] You are my everything -[2341.22 --> 2345.22] And I will adore you -[2345.22 --> 2367.00] As people are making their way to their seats -[2367.00 --> 2370.58] I want to invite the littlest among us up to the front -[2370.58 --> 2375.18] And so if you are aged three to five -[2375.18 --> 2376.64] Or kindergarten age -[2376.64 --> 2379.56] Whether you are going into kindergarten -[2379.56 --> 2380.64] Or just finished kindergarten -[2380.64 --> 2382.08] Or whatever the case may be -[2382.08 --> 2383.76] Come on up to the front -[2383.76 --> 2385.70] We're going to welcome you here -[2385.70 --> 2387.82] We're going to do a children's blessing -[2387.82 --> 2389.06] Do you guys know what that means? -[2390.38 --> 2390.64] Yeah? -[2391.16 --> 2392.16] Are you going to help us? -[2392.58 --> 2393.44] That would be great -[2393.44 --> 2395.30] So we're going to do a blessing -[2395.30 --> 2398.04] And then for those of you who would like -[2398.04 --> 2401.06] There's going to be some children's worship time -[2401.06 --> 2401.94] For you -[2401.94 --> 2403.30] So you can make your way out -[2403.30 --> 2404.78] There will be a teacher who will take you -[2404.78 --> 2406.06] And lead you there -[2406.06 --> 2407.88] Before you go -[2407.88 --> 2408.76] Can we pray together? -[2409.66 --> 2410.32] All right -[2410.32 --> 2412.14] Levi, you want to help us pray? -[2413.66 --> 2414.30] No? Okay -[2414.30 --> 2415.70] Fold your hands and we'll just pray -[2415.70 --> 2418.62] You want to help me? -[2419.14 --> 2419.92] Okay, stand up here -[2419.92 --> 2424.04] Hold my hand -[2424.04 --> 2425.38] Let's pray -[2425.38 --> 2429.00] Lord Jesus, we pray for these little ones -[2429.00 --> 2431.98] Asking that you would show yourself to them -[2431.98 --> 2435.52] Bless them in their children's worship time together -[2435.52 --> 2437.52] We pray this, Jesus, in your name alone -[2437.52 --> 2438.92] Amen -[2438.92 --> 2439.22] Amen -[2439.22 --> 2439.86] Good work -[2439.86 --> 2442.18] Okay, why don't you guys stand up together -[2442.18 --> 2444.92] All of you can stand up as well -[2444.92 --> 2446.72] We're going to hold our hands up -[2446.72 --> 2448.18] We're going to say, the Lord be with you -[2448.18 --> 2450.82] And then the congregation will respond -[2450.82 --> 2454.72] So together we say, the Lord be with you -[2454.72 --> 2456.36] And also with you -[2456.36 --> 2457.50] Excellent, thanks, Isla -[2457.50 --> 2461.20] Thank you -[2461.20 --> 2462.02] Amen -[2462.02 --> 2462.04] Amen -[2462.04 --> 2464.10] Amen -[2464.22 --> 2465.26] Amen -[2465.26 --> 2466.26] Amen -[2466.26 --> 2467.86] Amen -[2480.46 --> 2481.02] Amen -[2481.02 --> 2482.56] Amen -[2482.56 --> 2483.04] Amen -[2483.04 --> 2485.14] Amen -[2485.14 --> 2486.28] Amen -[2486.28 --> 2486.78] Amen -[2486.78 --> 2486.88] Amen -[2486.88 --> 2487.22] Amen -[2487.22 --> 2507.52] um before oh there we go hello everyone good morning my name is sarah i will be bringing um -[2507.52 --> 2514.82] congregational prayer um today and before i begin i'm just gonna get my notes up here -[2514.82 --> 2521.86] so i know what i'm talking about um before i begin just want to bring to your attention that -[2521.86 --> 2528.02] daniel howling's father had a fall um and at this point what we know is that he's in the hospital -[2528.02 --> 2533.94] um so keep him in your prayers and let's bring our prayers to the lord -[2533.94 --> 2544.12] our father our father in heaven our god and king -[2544.82 --> 2551.56] great are you lord above abundant is your strength and infinite your understanding -[2551.56 --> 2560.64] you are so so good to us you care for each person in this place on this earth and so we bring before -[2560.64 --> 2569.58] you our cares knowing and trusting you hear us and never leave nor forsake us to rejoice always pray -[2569.58 --> 2575.22] continually and give thanks in all circumstances we come together as a community in prayer -[2576.32 --> 2580.10] lifting each other up through the joys and through the heartaches -[2580.10 --> 2587.82] god i pray over every person in this congregation this community this family -[2587.82 --> 2597.02] you see every person sitting here and you see every person who is not some are not here because they are away -[2597.02 --> 2604.70] spending time with family on vacation with friends taking a break from the labors of work and other life responsibilities -[2604.70 --> 2612.44] god i pray for safety over the travels to and from spaces of rest and play this summer -[2612.44 --> 2626.44] i also pray that as they as we experience a physical and mental rest that you would beckon us to yourself to experience a spiritual rest -[2626.44 --> 2633.18] one that surpasses the station of work and play and cuts through the restless spirit -[2633.18 --> 2638.34] a rest that rather comes through the labor of disciplined rhythms with you -[2638.34 --> 2648.18] for even youths shall faint and be weary and young men shall fall exhausted but they who wait for you oh lord -[2648.18 --> 2658.74] shall renew their strength they shall mount up with wings like eagles they shall run and not be weary they shall walk and not faint -[2658.74 --> 2666.18] we pray also for those who aren't attending right now for reasons known or unknown -[2666.18 --> 2673.10] for young families who work through getting ready on sunday morning and the struggle that can be -[2673.10 --> 2676.28] we pray for those who are not going to be trying to be trying to be trying to decide if it's worth making the trek to church -[2676.28 --> 2681.50] we pray for those who can't be here due to physical reasons -[2681.50 --> 2686.78] we pray that they commune with you through this time of worship online -[2686.78 --> 2689.62] and know that we hold them in our prayers -[2689.62 --> 2694.60] we raise to you specific requests -[2694.60 --> 2697.14] we pray for daniel howling's father -[2697.14 --> 2698.40] who had a fall -[2698.40 --> 2701.72] who we we hear is in the hospital -[2701.72 --> 2705.26] we pray for whatever the situation is right now -[2705.26 --> 2709.24] for wisdom for the medical staff caring for him -[2709.24 --> 2711.72] and for comfort and peace for his family -[2711.72 --> 2715.52] and for for whatever pain he may be feeling -[2715.52 --> 2718.26] god we pray we pray for daniel -[2718.26 --> 2722.12] we also pray for -[2722.12 --> 2723.88] strained relationships -[2723.88 --> 2726.24] we think of louise condos -[2726.24 --> 2729.78] her parents and brother and sister-in-law -[2729.78 --> 2732.18] we pray for their relationship -[2732.18 --> 2737.86] please we we pray that you would soften their hearts -[2737.86 --> 2741.86] we pray for patience for understanding and respect -[2741.86 --> 2748.18] we pray this for other families that may be experiencing this -[2748.18 --> 2754.82] we pray that that you would bring them together -[2754.82 --> 2758.02] in ways that surpass maybe the hurt -[2758.02 --> 2760.76] that has been that has been said -[2760.76 --> 2762.46] that has been experienced god -[2762.46 --> 2768.58] we pray that that you would put your healing hand on those relationships lord -[2768.58 --> 2782.10] we pray specifically again for louise and housing situation for her brother that he will find a good job in pretoria -[2782.10 --> 2783.94] pretoria -[2783.94 --> 2794.52] we also pray for amy bonkers who recently had a corneagraph transplant surgery on her right eye -[2794.52 --> 2798.12] the healing process has been slow -[2798.12 --> 2803.96] and we know that slow healing requires a lot of patience -[2803.96 --> 2811.64] and amy has spent a lot of time lying on her on her bed flat on her bed and resting -[2811.64 --> 2819.80] and so we pray for patience and for complete healing during this process -[2819.80 --> 2831.16] we also pray that during these times when our family our church family is experiencing -[2831.16 --> 2838.84] is experiencing hurt is experiencing medical issues when they can't be here with us -[2838.84 --> 2844.36] that you would stir our hearts to think of them and to reach out to them and talk to them lord -[2844.36 --> 2846.28] and connect with them and see how they're doing -[2848.76 --> 2858.92] god we we bring some things of praise we praise and give thanks that class teesmaker is home from the hospital -[2858.92 --> 2867.24] um we pray for um his family and for him um and thank you that he is now home -[2867.24 --> 2874.84] um we also thank you that ellen white is also home from the hospital um from a very long road -[2874.84 --> 2883.16] of being in the hospital and we pray that um you continue to to be with her on this road of recovery that -[2883.16 --> 2888.20] she is still on um and for the arrangement of proper home care lord -[2888.20 --> 2895.80] uh we also lift up marguerite shown uh we pray for patience and for strength um -[2896.84 --> 2901.08] as she is managing her pain and going through the process of surgery -[2904.52 --> 2910.84] we also lift to you general prayers for those in our congregation we think of -[2910.84 --> 2920.44] um those who are caring for their aging parents um we know that this this can be an absolutely -[2920.44 --> 2926.28] beautiful and rewarding thing to be spending time with parents but we also know that it can be -[2926.28 --> 2935.08] incredibly taxing lord and so we pray for patience for strength for moments of relief when others can -[2935.08 --> 2944.92] come in and help um and we pray for for that process and for uh the relationships between children and their aging parents -[2947.80 --> 2955.72] we also continue to pray for those who mourn the loss of loved ones those who have recently passed -[2955.72 --> 2967.88] those who have passed maybe many years ago lord this kind of pain the pain of not seeing them again the pain of -[2967.88 --> 2975.08] not hearing their voice again not seeing their face again it is very very deep and very hard -[2975.08 --> 2986.92] and we know that that that pain doesn't necessarily just go away but we pray for for moments of joy and -[2986.92 --> 2995.08] remembering remembering the beautiful people in our lives who have passed and in that pain god i provide -[2995.08 --> 3000.44] i pray that you provide comfort for them um those who have have lost their loved ones -[3000.44 --> 3010.28] god i also bring before you those who experience who are experiencing chronic pain or those who are -[3010.28 --> 3017.40] struggling with their mental health these long-term challenges sometimes go unnoticed or hidden -[3019.08 --> 3022.84] maybe even these chronic struggles are a barrier for attending church -[3024.92 --> 3029.96] when poor mental health is impacting someone's life we know that those who are closest -[3029.96 --> 3035.96] walking alongside them also need community and support and they need your rest oh lord -[3039.00 --> 3047.64] i pray for other hidden struggles that maybe few people or no one but the one hurting knows about -[3049.16 --> 3054.60] not all struggles need to or can be shared publicly but all struggling need support -[3054.60 --> 3063.32] i pray that in this community you would build up and current and equip us to listen well and support -[3064.20 --> 3071.48] others as an outflow of your love to sit with to cry with to walk through the hardship with someone -[3075.08 --> 3079.00] i also want to pray for the guests that may be here or listening online -[3079.00 --> 3088.04] even if we don't know their need in prayer lord you know the beautiful thing is you connect us all as -[3088.04 --> 3098.28] brothers and sisters in christ not bound to one building but bound by your love we're all sinners and we all need you -[3098.28 --> 3103.08] desperately so we gather here this morning to hear your word spoken to us -[3103.08 --> 3109.24] i pray that you open our ears and our hearts to hear you speaking to us lord -[3110.76 --> 3113.32] as pastor chris leads us in studying your word -[3114.36 --> 3121.80] i pray over him and what he has prepared on the faith hero noah may your holy spirit move in our hearts to -[3121.80 --> 3135.80] receive your word in jesus name we pray amen -[3135.80 --> 3160.04] continue our series looking at different faith heroes in the bible and in our life and as sarah said -[3160.04 --> 3168.60] indeed we're going to look at the story of noah noah's story is recorded for us in the book of genesis -[3170.52 --> 3174.84] which is the very first book of the bible and so if you're going to follow along i encourage you to do -[3174.84 --> 3183.72] that and just um open it up to the first book noah's story is found in chapters 6 through 9 -[3183.72 --> 3192.76] we're not going to read all of that although in a moment i will go through um and uh recap the story -[3192.76 --> 3198.60] but we are going to read one small portion of it this is the beginning uh we're going to read from -[3198.60 --> 3203.96] chapter 6 starting at verse 9 and then we'll read through the end of that chapter to verse 22. -[3205.16 --> 3210.28] I encourage you to have a bible open in front of you we're going to refer back and flip through in a -[3210.28 --> 3220.76] bunch of places um and so you can follow along there let's read together this is the account of -[3220.76 --> 3230.60] noah and his family noah was a righteous man blameless among the people of his time and he walked faithfully -[3230.60 --> 3240.12] with god noah had three sons shem ham and japheth now the earth was corrupt in god's sight and was -[3240.12 --> 3246.92] full of violence god saw how corrupt the earth had become for all the people on earth had corrupted -[3246.92 --> 3254.84] their ways so god said to noah i am going to put an end to all people for the earth is filled with -[3254.84 --> 3262.36] violence because of them i am surely going to destroy them and the earth so make yourself an ark of cypress -[3262.36 --> 3270.84] wood make rooms in it and coat it with pitch inside and out this is how you are to build it the ark is -[3270.84 --> 3279.80] to be 300 cubits long 50 cubits wide and 30 cubits high make a roof for it leaving below the roof an -[3279.80 --> 3287.72] opening one cubit high all around put a door in the side of the ark and make lower middle and upper decks -[3287.72 --> 3294.92] i'm going to bring the flood waters on earth to destroy all life under the heavens every creature -[3294.92 --> 3301.96] that has the breath of life in it everything on earth will perish but i will establish my covenant -[3301.96 --> 3309.16] with you and you will enter the ark you and your sons and your wife and your son's wives with you -[3310.28 --> 3316.44] you are to bring into the ark two of all living creatures male and female to keep them alive with -[3316.44 --> 3322.60] you two of every kind of bird of every kind of animal and of every kind of creature that moves along -[3322.60 --> 3329.96] the ground will come to you to be kept alive you are to take every kind of food that is to be eaten -[3329.96 --> 3342.04] and stored away as food for you and for them noah did everything just as god commanded him this is the word of the lord -[3346.44 --> 3358.60] this summer we are looking at faith heroes from the bible and then at people in our own lives and stories -[3358.60 --> 3370.44] who show us similar things now this list of faith heroes from the bible comes from hebrews 11 now in the -[3370.44 --> 3380.84] book of hebrews what the author is trying to do as he brings us to this list of faith heroes is to call us -[3381.72 --> 3390.44] as hearers and listeners to persevere that is to persist in faith and life together with jesus -[3392.12 --> 3399.48] we began this series by looking at hebrews 11 verse 1 that says faith is confidence in what we hope for -[3399.48 --> 3408.76] and assurance about what we do not see so faith believes in the future god promised and then faith -[3409.40 --> 3419.16] and faithful living moves you towards that future now what we know from the bible right and we see this in -[3419.16 --> 3428.60] so many different places is that that faith is both a gift freely given by grace and faith and -[3428.60 --> 3433.56] faithful living is a responsibility that you grow and you grow in -[3439.00 --> 3448.84] and so having faith does not mean there will no longer be doubts or that you will have no questions -[3448.84 --> 3459.40] having faith having faith also doesn't mean that life will be easy or that life will be fair or that life -[3459.40 --> 3472.92] will be good instead faith changes what you do when you have doubts faith changes where you go when you have -[3472.92 --> 3483.40] questions faith faith informs who you will listen to when you need answers and then and importantly for us in this series -[3483.96 --> 3495.88] faith is never something you are meant to have and to hold alone right faith is given in community and then by that faith -[3495.88 --> 3506.28] you are given a community the preacher in hebrews 11 says let us consider how we may spur -[3507.08 --> 3509.48] one another toward love and good deeds -[3510.52 --> 3516.92] i said hebrews 11 this is hebrews 10 hebrews 10 let us consider how we may spur one another toward love -[3516.92 --> 3524.20] and good deeds right our job is to encourage each other and to to spur each other on in life and in faith -[3525.24 --> 3532.92] and you can't do that if you're not here you can't do that if you're not together right you can't do that if -[3532.92 --> 3540.52] you're not connected and connecting to each other and the teacher the preacher goes on and he says let us not -[3540.52 --> 3549.16] give up meeting together and then all the more as you see the day approaching that little line all the -[3549.16 --> 3559.08] more as you see the day approaching is critical in my mind because you see we need more of this not less -[3561.08 --> 3565.64] we need more of this connecting and being connected not less of it -[3565.64 --> 3572.44] uh i have a conviction some of you have heard me talk about this before and share this before -[3573.32 --> 3581.72] but as we in the west as we in canada become more and more what's generally called post-christian -[3583.00 --> 3591.16] i believe it's going to be harder and harder for a traditional orthodox bible bible believing christians -[3591.16 --> 3600.20] uh to exist together the context we live in is going to be harder to have our faith in and so -[3600.20 --> 3609.40] because of that it's going to become even more important to have thick and strong and deep communities of -[3609.40 --> 3618.92] faith and so if your experience of faith or of church or of belief is trying to discern the most -[3618.92 --> 3626.52] minimal connection than you can make right how little can i connect with how little can i do -[3627.24 --> 3634.76] how minimally can i contribute to what's going on here i mean with sensitivity but also maybe a little -[3634.76 --> 3641.24] bit of boldness you're thinking in the wrong direction right it's not about minimal standards -[3641.96 --> 3647.88] we need more right we need more life and story and faith together with other christians with other -[3647.88 --> 3659.64] believers not less look this is critical for all of us but i think it is most critical for you young -[3659.64 --> 3667.96] adults who are here right this is so important especially for those of you who are moving away in -[3667.96 --> 3677.00] the fall maybe for the first time right having a faith connection and a faith community that you belong to -[3677.00 --> 3681.56] that you take ownership of that you invest in and that you allow to invest in you -[3685.08 --> 3691.64] that is the greatest predictor of your faith growth and your spiritual well-being over the next few years -[3691.64 --> 3705.48] of your life and i know that some of you have already experienced a little bit of this challenge and some of you have experienced the the critical role that this kind of faith community plays but -[3705.48 --> 3715.96] all of us will experience it more especially as we move outside of the sort of bubble that we were raised in -[3715.96 --> 3720.68] especially as the bubbles that we have lived in get smaller and smaller and smaller -[3722.12 --> 3733.48] let me give you an example of this it used to be the case in our society in our culture that if you wanted to be a leader in the community leader of any kind -[3733.48 --> 3744.52] it was expected that you would be a person of active faith and in the west here that primarily means a christian faith -[3745.32 --> 3752.12] now you can see some of this legacy continuing in the united states in particular in the office of the president -[3752.92 --> 3761.80] right until very recently and maybe even still if you wanted to be president you at least had to say that you believed in god -[3761.80 --> 3769.56] and statistically you polled better if you said you believed in god and were a member of a protestant church -[3770.92 --> 3773.32] now that hasn't been the case in canada for a little while -[3774.76 --> 3784.12] and now again especially if you are 20 something being christian is sometimes considered to be a mark -[3784.12 --> 3792.28] against you and so here that change right what what used to be required for any sort of like social -[3792.28 --> 3798.68] standing any place of prominence in our society is now by many to be considered a liability -[3800.76 --> 3807.40] now i've had people tell me directly into my face that that my faith is the problem and the root of social -[3807.40 --> 3816.60] intolerance in the world and in the not too distant past right if you confessed christian faith right or -[3816.60 --> 3824.52] even if you didn't confess christian faith you sort of just accepted people who did but now if you say you -[3824.52 --> 3832.12] are a christian especially in the public sphere and if you say god forbid that you're a conservative christian -[3832.12 --> 3840.60] well that strains credulity for people in the world today and how could you believe that why would you -[3840.60 --> 3852.60] give up on sunday brunch and mimosas to go to church and so we've come to this time and place that thinks most of -[3852.60 --> 3863.40] what we do is absurd and when we live in this reality and increasingly so we need what the book of hebrews -[3863.40 --> 3871.24] calls a cloud of witnesses to hold us up and to spur us forward and and to pull us toward the prize -[3872.36 --> 3879.56] even when we fall down even when we struggle even when we face doubt and that exactly according to the -[3879.56 --> 3883.64] the book of hebrews is what the story of noah does -[3886.60 --> 3895.00] and so for us to see that let me quickly with you cover off the story if you have your bibles open -[3895.56 --> 3903.56] in chapter 6 through 9 i'm just going to rush through so the context is that that the inclination of -[3903.56 --> 3911.48] every thought and every human heart was only evil all the time and so we read in 6 verse 6 the lord -[3911.48 --> 3918.52] regretted that he made human beings on the earth and his heart was deeply troubled and so he promises -[3918.52 --> 3924.20] he's going to send a flood and even in the midst of that promise he sees believing noah righteous noah -[3924.20 --> 3931.00] and he calls out to him and says i'm going to do this but you and your family i will save i will -[3931.00 --> 3935.64] establish my covenant with you and you will enter the ark you and your sons and your wife and your -[3935.64 --> 3944.04] son's wives with you and then he tells him to take with him these animal pairs right two by two -[3945.08 --> 3951.96] although if you look a little bit deeper in chapter 7 verse 2 it says take with you seven pairs of every -[3951.96 --> 3960.44] kind of clean animal and its mate and one pair of every kind of unclean animal and then also seven pairs of -[3960.44 --> 3966.44] every kind of bird male and female to keep their various kinds alive throughout the earth and then -[3966.44 --> 3974.04] god says seven days from now i will send rain on the earth and it will rain for 40 days and for 40 nights -[3975.32 --> 3981.40] and so as the story goes in the 600th year of noah's life so he's not a young man anymore -[3982.84 --> 3989.00] on the 17th day of the second month on that day all the springs of great deep burst forth and the floodgates -[3989.00 --> 3996.84] of the heavens were opened and rain fell on earth for 40 days and for 40 nights for 40 days the rains -[3996.84 --> 4002.60] came down and the floods came up the rains came down and the floods came up they rose greatly on the earth -[4002.60 --> 4010.52] and all the high mountains under the heavens were covered only noah was left and those with him on the ark -[4010.52 --> 4021.72] and the waters flooded the earth for 150 days and then in chapter 8 verse 1 we read god remembered -[4022.28 --> 4031.00] noah god remembered noah and then at the end of 150 days the water goes down and on the 17th day of the -[4031.00 --> 4037.24] seventh month the ark came to rest on the mountains of ararat the top of the mountains became visible -[4037.24 --> 4043.24] and then after 40 days noah opened a window that he had made in the ark and he sent out a raven and -[4043.24 --> 4049.40] that raven kept flying back and forth and until the water had dried up from the earth and then he sent -[4049.40 --> 4055.88] out a dove to see if the water had receded but the dove could find nowhere to perch and because there was -[4055.88 --> 4062.12] water still everywhere and so it returned he waited seven more days and then he sent out the dove again -[4062.12 --> 4068.20] from the ark and when the dove returned to him in the evening there in its beak was a freshly plucked -[4068.20 --> 4075.64] olive leaf and so the waters had receded and the plants had started coming back and then god said to -[4075.64 --> 4082.04] noah verse 15 of chapter 8 is where i'm at come out of the ark you and your wife and your sons and their -[4082.04 --> 4088.52] wives and then he encourages them to go out and to reclaim the ground to move it and then he says -[4088.52 --> 4095.56] multiply on the earth and be fruitful and increase in number on it which for those of you with ears -[4095.56 --> 4102.20] to hear is a callback to genesis 1 verse 28 where god tells adam and eve to be fruitful and to multiply -[4102.20 --> 4109.00] and to fill the earth and subdue it and so there's an act here of recreating and recommissioning -[4109.00 --> 4115.96] god's people in the world and so noah comes out and he builds an altar taking some of the clean -[4115.96 --> 4121.24] animals and clean birds he sacrifices burnt offerings on them the lord smells the pleasing -[4121.24 --> 4126.36] aroma and in his heart he says never again will i curse the ground because of humans even though -[4126.36 --> 4133.08] every inclination of the human heart is evil from childhood notice that inclination hasn't changed -[4136.12 --> 4143.32] that inclination hasn't changed and on it goes the inclination of the heart is still evil -[4143.32 --> 4151.08] but god has made a promise god has made a promise that he will never destroy all the living creatures -[4151.08 --> 4156.76] again and then god says to noah in chapter 9 verse 12 this is the sign of the covenant that i am making -[4156.76 --> 4162.60] between me and you and every living creature with you a covenant for all generations to come i have set -[4162.60 --> 4168.52] my rainbow in the clouds and it will be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth whenever i bring -[4168.52 --> 4173.48] clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds i will remember my covenant between me -[4173.48 --> 4179.48] and you and all the living creatures of every kind whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds i will see it -[4179.48 --> 4184.92] and remember the everlasting covenant between god and all living creatures and every kind on the earth -[4184.92 --> 4195.40] and so god said to noah this is the sign of the covenant i have established between me and all life on earth -[4198.20 --> 4205.64] now this is an amazing story and people have written books on it people have preached entire -[4205.64 --> 4212.60] sermon series on just these few chapters and so i want to note three quick things that work for us as the -[4212.60 --> 4219.24] foundation of the step we will take after that work for us as the foundation as to why noah becomes a -[4219.24 --> 4227.96] faith hero for us first of all i want you to see in chapter 6 verse 6 the grieving heart of god -[4228.68 --> 4234.84] right we read the lord regretted that he'd made human beings on earth and his heart was deeply troubled -[4236.04 --> 4241.72] now that phrase the lord regretted that word that's used and that word that's used for his heart was -[4241.72 --> 4252.12] deeply troubled is a word that is sometimes translated grieved right the lord was grieved god's heart is -[4252.12 --> 4260.28] grieved his heart is broken at sin in the world and here's the point that i want you to remember and to hear -[4260.28 --> 4269.64] right because if you know the god of the bible you will know that he is what we call omniscient right that is -[4269.64 --> 4276.68] he knows everything right when god created the world before god created the world he knew exactly -[4276.68 --> 4284.04] what would happen right from the moment that god started thinking about creating he knew the potential -[4284.04 --> 4292.12] that would be realized that humanity would sin and fall away from him so think about that okay adam and -[4292.12 --> 4300.20] eve's sin in the garden does not catch god off guard the fact that every inclination of every human heart -[4300.76 --> 4304.92] right does not surprise is evil does not surprise god -[4308.04 --> 4314.12] right that the he's not caught off guard by this and so -[4314.12 --> 4325.16] he's also not disappointed by it now hear what i'm saying and listen carefully right god is not -[4325.16 --> 4333.64] disappointed by our sin because he knew that it would happen right disappointment is the result of -[4333.64 --> 4340.92] something negative that you don't know could happen happening or disappointment comes when you have an -[4340.92 --> 4351.16] expectation for something else and that expectation isn't met god doesn't have an expectation of his -[4351.16 --> 4359.48] creation that isn't met because he knows everything and so here this pastoral heart right god doesn't have -[4359.48 --> 4365.64] that expectation of you god is not disappointed in you and he's not surprised if you sin -[4365.64 --> 4374.68] do you remember when you were a kid and you did something wrong and your mom looked at you and said -[4375.32 --> 4378.44] i'm not angry i'm just disappointed -[4380.60 --> 4383.24] that didn't happen for you guys you're all better than i was -[4387.80 --> 4395.08] mom not being angry but disappointed cut deeper right because like i wish you would be angry -[4395.64 --> 4401.32] at least that i can deal with i know how to deal with that disappointment is something else but can -[4401.32 --> 4409.40] i just say god's not like your mom right god isn't disappointed because he knew exactly what would happen -[4410.76 --> 4417.48] and so instead of disappointment right god's heart is grieved right his heart is broken because he longs -[4417.48 --> 4424.44] for you to be close to him and for you to experience his closeness that's why he enters into the world -[4424.44 --> 4430.12] because his heart is grieved it's out of his grieving heart that he comes and he provides salvation -[4432.12 --> 4439.56] and so can i just say if you are carrying around shame or guilt for disappointing god -[4441.08 --> 4449.88] you've got the wrong idea of god god's not your mom right god's heart is grieved and so he comes into -[4449.88 --> 4456.28] the world to save sinners that means you and that means me and he knows you intimately and more deeply -[4456.28 --> 4462.84] than you know yourself there is nothing that is hidden from the sight of god and still he comes to you -[4462.84 --> 4473.08] and he calls you his own that's the heart of god for his people so hear the call of god -[4473.08 --> 4481.96] god god's grieving heart is the the motivation for his action in the world and that comes then to the -[4481.96 --> 4488.76] second point to make quickly about this story the very center of this story this whole story is structured -[4488.76 --> 4499.72] both um literarily in form but also uh thematically around 8 verse 1 but god remembered noah -[4499.72 --> 4507.40] now this little line is so important that walter brueggemann who's a biblical scholar he calls this line -[4507.40 --> 4516.68] the heart of the gospel according to noah right the gospel is that god remembers his people and because -[4516.68 --> 4524.44] god remembers his people he acts in power for their salvation this is who god is he's omniscient yes he's -[4524.44 --> 4532.12] omnipotent yes but he is so committed to his creation and to his chosen people that he remembers them -[4532.68 --> 4542.12] even when the entire world forgets him that's the heart of who god is and how he has revealed himself -[4542.12 --> 4549.40] in this story and lastly then the final point to make the importance of the rainbow sign and god's covenant -[4549.40 --> 4555.96] faithfulness right we we read that whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds i will see it and -[4555.96 --> 4561.72] remember the everlasting covenant between god and all the living creatures of every kind on the earth -[4561.72 --> 4569.96] this is the sign of the covenant i have established between me and all life on the earth to this day -[4569.96 --> 4582.12] the rainbow is a symbol of god remembering his covenant promise covenant is a word that we use to talk -[4582.12 --> 4592.44] about a special relationship established and that defines reality for the two parties and the rainbow is a -[4592.44 --> 4603.40] picture of god saying i remember you the rainbow is a picture of god saying never again will i destroy -[4603.40 --> 4613.32] the world never again will we be separated and so you've got god's grieving heart you've got the the gospel of -[4613.32 --> 4623.80] his remembering and then you have god's promise to remember and it's out of all of this all of who god is -[4624.44 --> 4632.12] that noah then in this story becomes an example for us and that's the foundation that i want you to hear -[4632.12 --> 4641.88] this important distinction noah is who he is to us because of who god is to noah right you get what i'm -[4641.88 --> 4650.52] saying there noah is held up as an example for us because of who god was to noah in his life because -[4650.52 --> 4658.28] what god did in his life precisely because god remembered noah he is held up for us as an example -[4658.28 --> 4666.84] of faith he is a faith hero because of who god is to him and that's the point then that hebrews 11 -[4666.84 --> 4679.48] verse 7 verse 7 makes about noah hebrews 11 verse 7 says by faith noah when warned about things not yet seen -[4679.48 --> 4687.56] in holy fear built an ark to save his family and by his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the -[4687.56 --> 4696.60] righteousness that is in keeping with faith and so there are two things then as we pull all of this -[4696.60 --> 4704.84] together that i want us to see about the faith of noah that makes him a hero an example for us first -[4705.56 --> 4713.24] noah takes god's word seriously he believes what god says about the future and about his salvation -[4713.24 --> 4720.60] and then he acts accordingly and then second his obedience and his preaching stood opposed to the -[4720.60 --> 4730.60] world around him and yet he persisted in his faith and faithfulness and so first noah takes god's word -[4731.16 --> 4741.72] seriously noah hears god's word about the coming disaster and he believes him and so he acts -[4741.72 --> 4748.92] accordingly accordingly and he lives with a responsible response to the future he sees in front of him -[4750.92 --> 4759.72] this is the pattern for us too right god has given us as christians in his word a clear revelation -[4759.72 --> 4770.44] and indication of the future and it's a future that is fixed and sure because god remembers us and god -[4770.44 --> 4778.68] continues to remember his people and so he sent his son into the world to live a life of perfect -[4778.68 --> 4785.96] obedience on our behalf god remembers us and so he sent his son into the world to die the death on the -[4785.96 --> 4794.20] cross that you and i deserve god remembers us and so jesus came and by his life and death you and i might -[4794.20 --> 4805.32] be spared jesus right is the ark of our salvation and what's more we know and can know that this same jesus -[4805.32 --> 4815.72] will return and that at his return all things will be made new the recreation of the flood will be fully -[4815.72 --> 4823.32] realized in the greater and grander recreation of all that is right one day there will be no more death or -[4823.32 --> 4828.68] mourning or crying or pain for the old order of things has passed away right he who is seated on the -[4828.68 --> 4837.88] throne has said i am making everything new no longer will there be any curse the throne of god and of the -[4837.88 --> 4845.56] lamb will be in the city and his servants will be with them they will see his face and his name will be on -[4845.56 --> 4855.48] their foreheads this is the future that we are now called to live out and live in light of to live out of -[4855.48 --> 4865.00] response to this future is sure and it is fixed and it will happen because god remembers his people -[4866.04 --> 4874.44] and so to have a faith like noah is to live in light of a future fully realized kingdom of god and to live -[4874.44 --> 4884.12] in light of that right now right here right the future reality is working its way backwards through time -[4884.12 --> 4892.76] and history to the present giving you hope and assurance giving you certainty in this moment even when -[4892.76 --> 4898.12] everything looks like chaos this truth remains -[4898.12 --> 4900.20] confidence -[4900.76 --> 4907.16] now faith is confidence in what we hope for this is that confidence -[4909.48 --> 4910.28] and so we live -[4912.36 --> 4917.80] in the hope and in the truth of that sure future -[4919.56 --> 4923.00] second noah's faith is commended -[4923.00 --> 4924.52] is commended -[4924.52 --> 4925.64] is commended to us -[4926.28 --> 4929.64] because he stood firm in his obedience -[4930.20 --> 4933.96] even when the whole world thought he was crazy -[4934.92 --> 4936.36] right hebrews -[4936.36 --> 4937.00] seven -[4937.00 --> 4938.52] or 11 7 -[4938.52 --> 4944.92] says in that second part by faith noah condemned the world and became an heir of righteousness that is in keeping -[4945.40 --> 4946.52] with faith -[4946.52 --> 4947.72] faith -[4947.72 --> 4954.84] in second peter 2 verse 5 you can read peter calls noah a preacher of righteousness -[4956.68 --> 4965.16] now early jews and christians would retell the story of noah and the story of the flood in a way and -[4965.16 --> 4972.84] they would flesh it out with noah preaching against the people around him even as he was building the ark -[4973.56 --> 4978.52] and he would warn them of the coming disaster in their telling of the story you can read it in the -[4978.52 --> 4981.40] sibylline oracles a document an ancient document from that time -[4981.96 --> 4983.00] and he would plead with them -[4983.56 --> 4988.12] right you hear noah's pastoral heart come out in the story that they tell of him as they -[4989.16 --> 4990.12] as they flesh it out -[4991.96 --> 4992.44] and yet -[4994.20 --> 4995.96] the world ridiculed him -[4997.24 --> 4997.96] laughed at him -[4998.76 --> 5000.36] and rejected him -[5000.36 --> 5003.00] and that's the thing right that's the -[5004.12 --> 5004.76] comparison -[5005.40 --> 5008.68] in a world that is so opposed to the truth of god -[5010.04 --> 5015.88] so opposed to preaching god's truth and so opposed to to living in obedience to him -[5017.00 --> 5023.80] in that world obedience to god is going to seem counterintuitive it's going to seem absurd to those -[5023.80 --> 5030.04] people who don't get it right this has always been the case right radical obedience in an age of rampant -[5030.04 --> 5040.76] disobedience is convicting to and of the world disciplined discipleship in an age of anything goes is shocking -[5040.76 --> 5043.40] to those who see it -[5043.40 --> 5045.72] and -[5045.72 --> 5048.52] we live this way -[5048.52 --> 5050.28] as noah did -[5050.28 --> 5056.20] when someone sees that and their conscience is pricked like that -[5056.20 --> 5066.28] that often the default response is to charge us or to charge that person right to be charged with being judgmental and being hypocritical -[5066.28 --> 5067.64] right -[5067.64 --> 5072.12] and that's meant to just dismiss everything we say and do and let's be honest right like -[5073.00 --> 5075.16] when someone calls me hypocritical they're not wrong -[5077.64 --> 5086.28] i'm a hypocrite we are all hypocrites we all fall short of this standard and this call to radical obedience over and over and over again -[5086.28 --> 5088.20] and yet -[5090.44 --> 5092.76] if my commitment to radical obedience -[5095.16 --> 5097.40] right if if you decide to -[5098.28 --> 5099.64] discipline -[5099.64 --> 5105.16] and if you decide to live in a disciplined discipleship kind of way what you do -[5106.12 --> 5108.68] that will offend the people around you -[5110.12 --> 5113.00] right and and not because you're being offensive -[5113.00 --> 5117.16] but because they are wondering -[5118.12 --> 5119.32] if they should be doing it too -[5121.16 --> 5122.44] if that's how they should be living -[5123.48 --> 5123.96] as well -[5128.84 --> 5129.24] when i -[5130.68 --> 5131.64] was in university -[5132.44 --> 5133.72] i lived with -[5135.88 --> 5138.68] a guy who became a really good friend of mine the last two years -[5138.68 --> 5141.48] we lived off campus we shared a house together his name is craig -[5143.96 --> 5147.48] craig a young man from rural -[5148.68 --> 5149.40] manitoba -[5150.28 --> 5150.60] and -[5151.64 --> 5157.32] i was still at this point in my life relatively new to taking my faith seriously -[5158.12 --> 5162.36] and so i wasn't really sure or confident in what that looked like -[5163.64 --> 5166.20] craig is an example of someone who -[5166.20 --> 5167.24] who was -[5168.84 --> 5171.96] someone who modeled for me what it looked like to be -[5173.16 --> 5178.36] faithfully obedient in response to the call of the call of god regardless -[5178.36 --> 5183.08] of what the people around him or what the world around him thought he should be like -[5185.24 --> 5189.32] craig and i would stay up until early in the morning discussing issues of life -[5189.32 --> 5194.68] and faith and then he would get up and then he would go volunteer at the rock which is a -[5194.68 --> 5200.52] a youth homeless drop-in center in downtown hamilton and then he would talk one-on-one with these -[5201.40 --> 5206.28] young people who came to the drop-in center and he would share his story of faith and his commitment -[5206.28 --> 5210.36] to the gospel and his commitment to living faithfully in response to god's word -[5210.36 --> 5214.04] and every time i talked to craig -[5215.40 --> 5216.12] my heart -[5216.12 --> 5219.32] would simultaneously sing -[5220.12 --> 5223.32] because i wanted something like that and i wanted to be like that -[5223.32 --> 5229.96] and i was also convicted because i wasn't yet and i was growing -[5231.00 --> 5237.48] and so when i think of craig he is to me a modern example of noah -[5237.48 --> 5244.92] who regardless of what the world around him said lived his life in faithful response and called me -[5245.48 --> 5248.36] to the same and inspires me to the same -[5257.32 --> 5260.20] two years after i first started living with craig -[5260.20 --> 5267.72] the summer after we graduated from redeemer he was driving in his hometown of brandon manitoba -[5268.76 --> 5271.72] and he was killed in a car crash -[5274.36 --> 5276.68] the car coming towards him had crossed the center line -[5277.48 --> 5285.32] and hit him head-on doing 120 odd kilometers he and his cousin who was a passenger in the car -[5286.20 --> 5287.96] were both killed instantly -[5287.96 --> 5298.36] and so the group of us friends from redeemer about 30 of us got on a plane went to brandon manitoba -[5298.36 --> 5302.76] spent the weekend with his family and participated in the funeral -[5305.40 --> 5315.08] craig's funeral text was ecclesiastes 12 verse 1 which says remember your creator in the days of your youth -[5317.96 --> 5322.44] the day that was compelling to me -[5322.44 --> 5329.00] but craig would also tell you he would be the first to tell you -[5330.60 --> 5332.36] that his remembering of god -[5332.92 --> 5337.00] wasn't as important as god remembering him -[5340.04 --> 5344.28] and at craig's funeral my friends asked me to stand and speak on our behalf -[5344.28 --> 5356.12] and i told this story of craig he was a man even in his young cut way too short life -[5358.76 --> 5368.84] showed me what it was like to be noah as a christian standing firm on the truth of god's word firm in the -[5368.84 --> 5375.40] hope of the future to come and willing come what may no matter what people say -[5376.52 --> 5379.88] to speak the truth of god -[5381.32 --> 5387.24] noah is a faith hero because he calls us to radical obedience and bold proclamation -[5387.24 --> 5393.72] craig is a faith hero to me because he calls me and inspires me to radical obedience and to bold -[5393.72 --> 5395.08] the truth of god's word for the truth of god -[5395.08 --> 5405.40] who in your life has done the same and how can you thank them and equally how will you be that -[5405.40 --> 5413.16] kind of person for someone else maybe someone here maybe someone in your home or family but how will you -[5413.16 --> 5421.48] be the kind of person because god remembers you that you too will go out and remember your creator -[5422.12 --> 5430.12] in the days of your youth or in the days of your middle-aged life or in the days of your third third -[5430.12 --> 5438.44] remember your creator because he remembers you let's pray together -[5443.32 --> 5453.40] holy god you call us forward in faith and in perseverance help us to know today -[5453.40 --> 5463.88] that even as we are persevering forward you are preserving us from within and that by this gift of -[5463.88 --> 5472.68] faith that you have freely given by grace we are now called to grow that gift and to grow in our faith -[5473.64 --> 5480.92] and so allow us to be bold proclaimers of your gospel in a world that finds the truth of god -[5480.92 --> 5488.92] offensive allow us to live lives of radical obedience even when people around us find it absurd and then -[5488.92 --> 5495.48] lord god help us to see that there are people around us there are a great cloud of witnesses that we -[5495.48 --> 5505.88] hear together brothers and sisters in the faith are here to spur each of us forward to spur us on -[5505.88 --> 5516.44] use these stories this gospel truth from noah down through jesus christ into the modern day life we live -[5516.44 --> 5533.88] as disciples use this truth to call us out in jesus name we pray amen -[5535.88 --> 5547.64] amen -[5558.76 --> 5563.88] hey -[5563.88 --> 5578.20] I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, -[5578.20 --> 5584.72] I bow through the mount, the universe displays. -[5586.00 --> 5591.40] Then sings my soul, my Savior God to me, -[5591.40 --> 5598.40] How great Thou art, how great Thou art, -[5599.56 --> 5605.40] Then sings my soul, my Savior God to me, -[5605.40 --> 5612.40] How great Thou art, how great Thou art. -[5612.40 --> 5622.40] When through the woods and forest glades I wander, -[5622.40 --> 5629.40] I hear the birds sing spingly in the trees. -[5629.40 --> 5636.64] When I look down from lofty mountain grand earth, -[5636.64 --> 5642.40] And hear the birds sing spingly in the trees. -[5642.40 --> 5649.40] Then sings my soul, my Savior God to me, -[5649.40 --> 5656.40] How great Thou art, how great Thou art. -[5656.40 --> 5663.40] Then sings my soul, my Savior God to me, -[5663.40 --> 5670.40] How great Thou art, how great Thou art. -[5670.40 --> 5675.40] How great Thou art, how great Thou art, how great Thou art. -[5675.40 --> 5679.80] That God his Son not sparing -[5679.80 --> 5683.26] Sent him to die -[5683.26 --> 5687.08] I scarce can take it in -[5687.08 --> 5690.24] That on the cross -[5690.24 --> 5693.80] My burden gladly bearing -[5693.80 --> 5697.26] He bled and died -[5697.26 --> 5701.08] To take away my sin -[5701.08 --> 5704.34] Then sings my soul -[5704.34 --> 5707.98] I sang it now to thee -[5707.98 --> 5711.56] How great thou art -[5711.56 --> 5714.84] How great thou art -[5714.84 --> 5717.74] Then sings my soul -[5717.74 --> 5721.14] I sang it now to thee -[5721.14 --> 5724.90] How great thou art -[5724.90 --> 5728.38] How great thou art -[5731.08 --> 5734.34] I shall come -[5734.34 --> 5737.68] With shout of acclamation -[5737.68 --> 5741.08] And take me home -[5741.08 --> 5744.92] What joy shall fill my heart -[5744.92 --> 5747.34] Then I shall bow -[5747.34 --> 5751.18] In humble adoration -[5751.18 --> 5754.34] And there proclaim -[5754.34 --> 5758.44] My God will bring thou home -[5758.44 --> 5761.70] And sing my soul -[5761.70 --> 5765.28] My Savior come to thee -[5765.28 --> 5768.70] How great thou art -[5768.70 --> 5771.92] How great thou art -[5771.92 --> 5774.70] Then sings my soul -[5774.70 --> 5777.70] My Savior come to thee -[5777.70 --> 5781.92] How great thou art -[5781.92 --> 5784.44] How great thou art -[5784.44 --> 5798.10] As we conclude our worship time together this morning -[5798.10 --> 5801.80] Please go with an invitation to hang out afterwards -[5801.80 --> 5804.02] In the foyer or here in the sanctuary -[5804.02 --> 5805.96] There'll be coffee and refreshments -[5805.96 --> 5807.26] Encourage you to stick around -[5807.26 --> 5811.72] And I encourage you to use that time of connecting and conversation -[5811.72 --> 5814.98] To share life and faith together -[5814.98 --> 5818.18] Share how you have seen God at work -[5818.18 --> 5822.92] Or where you are crying out to see God at work in your life -[5822.92 --> 5825.64] If you would like prayer following our time together -[5825.64 --> 5828.02] There will be someone who will come up to the front -[5828.02 --> 5829.70] They will have a name tag like this one -[5829.70 --> 5830.50] But it will be yellow -[5830.50 --> 5833.12] They would love to meet you and pray with you -[5833.12 --> 5836.16] Receive the blessing of God for today -[5836.16 --> 5841.82] God go before you to lead you -[5841.82 --> 5844.78] God go behind you to protect you -[5844.78 --> 5847.46] God go beneath you to support you -[5847.46 --> 5850.28] And God go beside you to befriend you -[5850.28 --> 5852.30] Do not be afraid -[5852.30 --> 5854.76] Let the blessing of God come upon you today -[5854.76 --> 5856.26] Do not be afraid -[5856.26 --> 5858.86] But go in peace -[5858.86 --> 5861.76] To love and serve the Lord -[5861.76 --> 5863.46] Amen -[5863.46 --> 5884.40] You're the Lion of Judah -[5884.40 --> 5886.62] The Lamb who once stood -[5886.62 --> 5888.74] You were sent into heaven -[5888.74 --> 5890.92] And evermore the rain -[5890.92 --> 5893.04] At the end of the age -[5893.04 --> 5895.08] When the earth will renew -[5895.08 --> 5898.72] They will gather the nations before you -[5898.72 --> 5901.48] And the eyes of all men -[5901.48 --> 5903.70] Will be fixed on the Lamb -[5903.70 --> 5905.92] Who was crucified -[5905.92 --> 5911.24] When wisdom and mercy and justice -[5911.24 --> 5916.30] Will reign at the Father's eye -[5916.30 --> 5918.42] And the angels will cry -[5918.42 --> 5922.06] Hail the man -[5922.06 --> 5926.92] Who was saved for the world -[5926.92 --> 5930.30] Holy of God -[5930.30 --> 5935.06] And the earth will reply -[5935.06 --> 5938.30] You shall win -[5938.30 --> 5943.30] As the King of all kings -[5943.30 --> 5945.42] And the Lord of all kings -[5945.42 --> 5945.92] And the Lord of all kings -[5945.92 --> 5955.74] There's a shield in our hand -[5955.74 --> 5957.92] And the sword in our side -[5957.92 --> 5960.14] There's a fire in our spirit -[5960.14 --> 5962.08] That cannot be denied -[5962.08 --> 5964.56] As the Father has told us -[5964.56 --> 5966.42] For the easy round of night -[5966.42 --> 5969.58] For the nations that gather the boys -[5969.58 --> 5971.70] And the angels will cry -[5971.70 --> 5973.70] And the angels will cry -[5973.70 --> 5989.74] And the angels will cry -[5989.74 --> 5992.58] Hail the man -[5992.58 --> 5995.14] Hail the man -[5995.14 --> 5996.62] For the high -[5996.62 --> 5997.74] O high -[5997.74 --> 5998.50] Joe -[5998.50 --> 6000.32] Blue of the kingdom -[6000.32 --> 6001.46] And the angels will cry -[6001.46 --> 6004.82] And the angels will cry -[6004.82 --> 6006.12] Hail the man -[6006.74 --> 6008.66] For the path of all kings -[6008.96 --> 6010.80] And the angels will cry -[6010.80 --> 6011.52] Men -[6011.52 --> 6012.10] And the angels -[6012.10 --> 6013.96] tagged a handing -[6013.96 --> 6019.38] If Wald -[6019.38 --> 6019.76] Seober -[6019.76 --> 6020.26] enrolled -[6020.26 --> 6026.26] oh -[6026.26 --> 6040.58] oh -[6040.58 --> 6044.94] As you need the Lord, thank you for the Lord of all. -[6044.94 --> 6050.48] As you need the Lord, thank you for the Lord of all. -[6070.58 --> 6100.56] Thank you. -[6100.58 --> 6130.56] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 25 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 25 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2fa5d32f3c77b117d1cc6912b10a80bfb0a80c3d..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 25 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,159 +0,0 @@ -• Struggling with feeling brave and finding faith -• Questioning God's presence and love in difficult times -• Theme of perseverance and hope despite uncertainty -• References to biblical concepts, such as "he is moving" and "hallelujah for the victory" -• Emphasis on God's promises and redemption -• Repeated use of the phrase "you just haven't seen it yet" -• Expression of trust in God's presence and guidance -• Intro by Pastor Chris -• Announcements (youth disc golf event, Reactivate, Profession of Faith) -• Welcome of new members into church membership -• Call to worship from Psalm 145 -• Worship service begins -• Praise and worship of God as a faithful and trustworthy King -• Citing scriptures referencing God's faithfulness, provision, and guidance -• Expressions of personal need for God's presence and guidance -• Desires for spiritual growth and holiness through Christ -• Invitation to hear testimonies from individuals about their experiences with God -• The speaker talks about having life-changing experiences and realizing they've had people around them who have influenced their faith and behavior. -• The importance of support and community in maintaining a strong faith and relationship with God. -• Examples of the church's support and creation of a loving community. -• The reference to Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, which says two are better than one because they can help each other up. -• A personal story about Jared's unique approach to life, using his wisdom to seek the right path. -• Proverbs 1:7, which states that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of all wisdom. -• An invitation for Hadassah Klosterhof to share her testimony. -• Heather is speaking about her own faith journey and how she's been working on making it her own -• Heather praises Hadassah for her wisdom, kindness, and commitment to living out her faith -• Noah Hubertz shares a testimony about his spiritual mentor, Nathan Visser, and how he has inspired him to think more critically before acting on his faith. -• The speaker is expressing their gratitude for the church and its community -• The speaker wants to take a next step in their faith, specifically becoming an ordained member of the church -• Noah's dedication to his faith and commitment to doing the right thing has made a significant impact on others -• As Noah publicly professes his faith, he is reminded that this is not the end of his relationship with the community -• The speaker offers a word of caution about trials and tribulations that Noah will face in the future -• A passage from Hebrews 10 is referenced to encourage Noah to hold fast to his confession of hope and consider others to stir up love and good works. -• Baptism and God's promise -• Profession of faith and commitment to Christ -• Understanding the Bible as the word of God -• Accepting God's promises sealed in baptism and affirming union with Christ and his church -• Promising to do all that can be done to strengthen love and commitment to Christ -• Bible verse about doing God's will and pleasing Him through Jesus Christ -• Invitation to the congregation to respond with "We do, God helping us" -• Recognition of Jared, Noah, and Hadassah as new members of the church -• Elders invited to present certificates and gifts to the new members -• Prayer over the new members and their families and spiritual mentors -• The elders lay hands on the new members -• A song is sung after the prayer ("Cornerstone") -• Prayers and hymns are sung, including "My Hope is Built on Nothing Less" -• Invitation for children to come forward for worship time -• Prayer and blessing for the children before they leave for their own worship time -• Explanation of the kids' blessing ritual -• Offerings and collection for church ministries and missions, specifically Night Shift -• Prayer for a new day of worship and reflection -• Asking God to help with various personal struggles (health issues, family loss, relationship problems) -• Citing Psalm 100 and thanking God for His promises and goodness -• Praying for specific individuals and families (Miles, Bob Viss, Louise, Benita Smid, Murad family) -• Requesting an end to forest fires, dry weather, and support for those affected by them -• Asking for healing and strength for farming communities and those dealing with COVID-19 -• Thanking God for blessings and praying for continued health, strength, and support for individuals and families -• A profession of faith by Hadassah, Noah, and Jared is shared -• Prayer for the youth to have a strong commitment to understanding God's word -• Blessing for the offerings, volunteers, and ministry of the church -• Request for continued support for the church's operations -• Discussion of the question "what is truth?" and seeking clarity in understanding it -• Reading from Psalm 107 and giving thanks to God -• Reading from John 4:19-26 and John 8:31-47, focusing on Jesus' teachings about worship and freedom. -• Jesus teaches that those who claim to be Abraham's children (Jews) are actually doing the works of their own father, implying they do not truly follow God. -• Jesus contrasts himself with his accusers, stating he comes from God and speaks truth, while they come from Satan, a liar and murderer. -• A key point is that those who belong to God hear and understand what God says through Jesus. -• The speaker then changes topic, discussing the purpose of their series "Ask Anything" and how to answer difficult questions using the Bible study method. -• Discussion of interpreting Bible texts in a group setting -• Problem with multiple opinions without clear understanding -• Introduction to a method for understanding Bible texts -• First step: querying the text by asking questions -• Examples of questions to ask when reading the text: - • Place names and geography - • Context of Jesus' responses to questions - • Repeated words or phrases - • Background information on flood cycles, etc. -• Importance of writing down questions for further research -• Querying the text and writing down questions -• Understanding truth in John 4 and John 8:31-47 -• Asking questions and seeking answers through context exploration -• Mining the text to find connections between passages -• Exploring relationships between individual verses or chapters and the larger book or whole -• Importance of understanding the historical context in which the Bible was written -• Dangers of reading the Bible through a modern lens without considering its ancient cultural and temporal context -• Need to explore the historical situation into which the text was written to accurately interpret it -• Use of Bible concordances, online resources, and commentaries to mine the text for deeper understanding -• Importance of using specific language in the original text (in this case, John's use of "truth" or aletheia) to guide interpretation. -• Discussion of Jesus' character as full of truth -• Passage review in the Gospel of John, specifically John 4 and John 8 -• Jesus' statement "I am the way, the truth, and the life" -• The role of the Holy Spirit as the spirit of truth -• Jesus' high priestly prayer in John 17 for believers to be sanctified by God's truth -• Pilate's trial of Jesus in John 18 -• Jesus' claim to kingship -• Pilate's misunderstanding of truth -• The concept of truth in John's Gospel, particularly in chapter 18 and its connections to chapters 4 and 8 -• Truth as a character or attribute of Jesus, part of his glory that he reveals with grace and truth -• Jesus being the ultimate truth -• Reality and truth -• Bending reality (as seen in Loki) -• Understanding truth through Jesus as an anchor for reality -• Scripture references: Hebrews 13:8, Colossians 1, John 1 -• John invokes language of creation to ground Jesus' identity -• Jesus as the Word in Genesis 1:1-3, agent of God at creation -• The Word takes on flesh in Jesus and enters human reality -• Truth is defined by Jesus' coming and impact on reality -• Jesus prayed for sanctification through truth, and his word is truth -• God's word creates and defines reality, made flesh in Jesus -• Jesus' coming will change reality and truth -• The concept of truth is not relative, but rather corresponds to reality created by God -• Understanding any Bible text requires understanding it in relation to Jesus as fulfillment or contrast -• Jesus himself emphasized the importance of studying scripture in relation to him for eternal life -• Jesus refers to scriptures that testify about him -• Connection between Moses and Jesus' teachings -• Understanding a Bible text requires going to or letting it lead to Jesus -• The gospel of Jesus is a thread throughout the entire Bible, from Genesis 1 to Revelation 22 -• Jesus' message is present in various texts, including stories, letters, and poetry -• The importance of studying the Bible to understand Jesus -• Mining and exploring a text to reveal its context and truth -• Understanding that God is spirit and worship must be in the spirit and in truth -• Holding to Jesus' teaching as a requirement for being his disciple -• Recognizing Jesus as the one who tells the truth, and knowing him requires understanding the truth about who he is and what he says -• Reality and impact of Jesus' coming on reality -• True worshipers will worship the Father in the spirit and truth, meaning the truth of Jesus himself -• Jesus' kingdom on earth -• The Samaritan woman's life changed by her interaction with Jesus, confirming his point about changing realities -• People being used by God to change the realities of others in their hometowns -• Jesus' coming and its impact on reality -• The changing of one's reality through faith in Jesus' life, death, and resurrection -• Understanding every text as being about Jesus and having a call to action or answer to what it changes -• The transformative power of scripture in teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training for righteousness -• Types of texts (doxology, mission, application) and their purposes -• Obedience as a response to scripture -• Scripture's role in changing individuals from the inside out -• The importance of encountering God through Bible study -• Transformation by the Holy Spirit -• Wrestling with the Bible and encountering the voice of the creator -• Call to action when seeing reality of Jesus' impact -• Reality and understanding of Jesus -• Living out one's faith in everyday life -• Profession of faith as a lifelong commitment -• Prayer and invocation of God's power and truth -• Seeking to see and follow Jesus through the Holy Spirit -• Proclamation and profession of faith throughout one's life -• Praise and thanksgiving for God's help and deliverance -• Trust in the cross of Christ as redeemer -• Singing of the blood that never fails -• Forgiveness of sins and cleansing of conscience -• Defeat of death and life without end -• Beautiful Savior, wonderful Counselor, bold in majesty -• Jesus as the way, truth, and life, glorious in holiness -• Invitation to gather after service for refreshments and encouragement -• Blessing of God for protection and guidance -• Prayers and blessings for protection and guidance -• Encouragement not to be afraid, but to go in peace and serve the Lord -• The Lamb's ascension to heaven and future reign at the end of the age -• The Lamb's role as King of all kings and Lord of all lords -• Praise and worship with repetition of "Hail the Lamb" \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 25 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 25 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index dad65772eb43675f661dcca4ba57adf849719fc1..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 25 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3128 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 8.16] So long status quo, I think I'll just let go -[8.16 --> 14.84] You make me wanna be brave, I wanna be brave -[14.84 --> 21.04] The way it always was, it's no longer good enough -[21.04 --> 25.90] You make me wanna be brave -[25.90 --> 28.80] Brave -[28.80 --> 34.16] Brave -[34.16 --> 36.18] Brave -[36.18 --> 37.60] Brave -[37.60 --> 39.42] Brave -[44.48 --> 48.48] Brave -[48.48 --> 50.48] Brave -[50.48 --> 51.40] Brave -[51.40 --> 52.48] Brave -[52.48 --> 53.68] Brave -[53.68 --> 53.96] Brave -[53.96 --> 54.68] Brave -[54.68 --> 55.84] Brave -[55.84 --> 55.88] Brave -[55.88 --> 56.00] Brave -[56.00 --> 56.04] Brave -[56.04 --> 56.86] Brave -[56.86 --> 58.12] Brave -[58.12 --> 58.32] Brave -[58.32 --> 67.70] Have you been praying and you still have no answer? -[69.44 --> 74.54] Have you been pouring out your heart for so many years? -[76.00 --> 82.12] Have you been hoping that things would have changed by now? -[82.96 --> 88.30] Have you cried all the faith you have through so many tears? -[88.32 --> 118.30] Have you been praying and you still have no answer? -[118.32 --> 120.32] Have you been praying and you still have no answer? -[120.32 --> 128.32] Have you been praying and you still have no answer? -[128.32 --> 130.32] Have you been praying and you still have no answer? -[130.32 --> 134.32] Have you been praying and you still have no answer? -[134.32 --> 139.48] Maybe you just haven't seen it, just haven't seen it again -[139.48 --> 144.18] Maybe you just haven't seen it -[144.18 --> 150.26] He had the solution before you had the problem -[150.26 --> 156.94] Since he's the best in you and you feel like you're worst -[156.94 --> 164.62] So in the questioning, don't ever doubt this love for you -[164.62 --> 170.52] Cause it's only in this love that you'll find a breakthrough -[170.52 --> 175.40] It's like the fires, the sun rise -[175.40 --> 179.40] Waiting on the other side, on the darkest night -[179.40 --> 182.80] Don't ever lose hope, hold on and believe -[182.80 --> 187.30] Maybe you just haven't seen it, just haven't seen it again -[187.30 --> 189.90] He's closer than you think you are -[189.90 --> 193.10] Holding меня from the breaking of those -[193.10 --> 196.18] All his promises are just up again -[196.18 --> 201.20] Maybe you just haven't seen it, just haven't seen it again -[201.20 --> 208.00] Maybe you just haven't seen it, just haven't seen it again -[208.00 --> 212.18] Maybe you just haven't seen it -[212.18 --> 216.44] He is moving with a love so deep -[216.44 --> 219.74] Hallelujah for the victory -[219.74 --> 223.24] Good things are coming even when we can't save -[223.24 --> 225.42] We can't see yet -[225.42 --> 227.10] But we believe that -[227.10 --> 230.20] He is moving with a love so deep -[230.20 --> 233.44] Hallelujah for the victory -[233.44 --> 237.10] Good things are coming even when we can't save -[237.10 --> 239.18] We can't see yet -[239.18 --> 241.04] But we believe that -[241.04 --> 243.98] It's like the bright, the sun will rise -[243.98 --> 247.96] Waiting on the other side, on the darkest night -[247.96 --> 251.24] Don't ever lose, hold on to the family -[251.24 --> 255.86] Maybe you just haven't seen it, just haven't seen it yet -[255.86 --> 258.02] Keep going for anything you want -[258.02 --> 261.60] All the moments from the breaking blood -[261.60 --> 264.82] All these promises are just up ahead -[264.82 --> 269.68] Maybe you just haven't seen it, just haven't seen it yet -[271.04 --> 276.54] Maybe you just haven't seen it, just haven't seen it yet -[276.54 --> 283.30] Maybe you just haven't seen it, just haven't seen it yet -[283.30 --> 290.64] Baby you just haven't seen it, just haven't seen it yet -[301.04 --> 302.96] One, two, three, four. -[331.04 --> 361.02] One, two, three, four. -[361.04 --> 391.02] One, two, three, four. -[391.04 --> 421.02] One, two, three, four. -[421.02 --> 451.00] One, two, three, four. -[451.00 --> 453.00] One, two, three, four. -[453.00 --> 455.00] One, two, three, four. -[455.00 --> 457.00] One, two, three, four. -[457.00 --> 459.00] One, two, three, four. -[459.00 --> 461.00] One, two, three, four. -[461.00 --> 463.00] One, two, three, four. -[463.00 --> 465.00] One, two, three, four. -[465.00 --> 467.00] One, two, three, four. -[467.00 --> 469.00] One, two, three, four. -[469.00 --> 471.00] One, two, three, four. -[471.00 --> 473.00] One, two, three, four. -[473.00 --> 475.00] One, two, three, four. -[475.00 --> 477.00] One, two, three, four. -[477.00 --> 479.00] One, two, three, four. -[479.00 --> 482.68] When I'm standing up, I'm out today -[482.68 --> 485.62] Didn't get there on my own -[485.62 --> 488.40] When I'm walking through the barrier -[488.40 --> 490.80] Now I am not alone -[490.80 --> 494.26] You're better than hills and baddies -[494.26 --> 496.92] Hills and baddies -[496.92 --> 500.00] You're better than hills and baddies -[500.00 --> 502.08] But I'm not alone -[502.08 --> 505.72] You're better than hills and baddies -[505.72 --> 508.36] Hills and baddies -[508.36 --> 511.44] You're better than hills and baddies -[511.44 --> 513.10] But I'm getting ready -[513.10 --> 515.20] And I'm not alone -[515.20 --> 518.34] And I will choose to say -[518.34 --> 521.40] Blessed be your name -[521.40 --> 525.72] And I am not alone -[535.72 --> 538.88] Though, there's a businessróp -[538.88 --> 540.26] We'll have a bit of life -[540.26 --> 541.14] That's my business -[541.14 --> 541.66] That's what I want -[541.66 --> 542.54] To get ready -[542.54 --> 544.00] Sl baения -[544.00 --> 553.08] Grumps -[553.08 --> 555.72] Ass frame -[555.72 --> 556.96] HeACT -[556.96 --> 557.54] Us -[557.54 --> 558.54] I -[558.54 --> 559.04] Des bottleneck -[559.04 --> 560.30] Sw.'" -[560.30 --> 561.26] Half -[561.26 --> 562.44] I -[562.44 --> 562.94] S -[562.94 --> 565.02] Le -[565.02 --> 570.18] Good morning, everyone. -[572.04 --> 573.02] There you go. -[574.02 --> 575.30] No wonder you didn't respond. -[576.68 --> 579.00] It was like in the old movies from on high. -[580.22 --> 580.94] Okay, good morning. -[582.14 --> 584.50] Welcome to worship. -[584.68 --> 585.30] My name is Chris. -[585.48 --> 588.68] I'm one of the pastors here, and we're excited to worship this morning. -[588.68 --> 593.86] We are particularly excited today because we have the opportunity to witness three professions -[593.86 --> 598.78] of faith, and that's always a really awesome time in the life of our church. -[599.42 --> 606.04] We get to hear how God has been faithful to these three, we'll say, relatively young people -[606.04 --> 610.16] as they stand here and share their story with us. -[610.64 --> 615.06] As we gather to worship today, just a couple announcements. -[615.72 --> 622.00] First, there is a youth disc golf event on Wednesday at Passive Park. -[622.00 --> 628.00] And if you want to participate in that and you consider yourself a youth, or if you would -[628.00 --> 633.56] like to challenge the youth and defeat them all, you can meet at Passive Park in the evening. -[633.72 --> 637.20] But before that, talk to Noah or Josh. -[637.30 --> 638.10] Noah, where are you? -[638.96 --> 639.46] Hand up. -[639.62 --> 640.06] Big wave. -[640.20 --> 640.66] Thank you. -[640.80 --> 641.56] Josh, where are you? -[641.66 --> 642.04] Hand up. -[642.10 --> 642.50] Big wave. -[642.58 --> 643.02] There you go. -[643.42 --> 643.88] Grab them. -[643.96 --> 646.10] They have information after the service. -[646.10 --> 653.86] Also, for the youth, Reactivate is happening in September, and the sign-up for that will -[653.86 --> 655.38] be coming to you shortly. -[655.60 --> 660.78] So keep your eyes and inboxes open, ready for that to happen as well. -[662.24 --> 666.94] Finally, as we do Profession of Faith today, we're welcoming these young people into membership -[666.94 --> 667.56] of the church. -[668.18 --> 671.50] We know that there's a couple other people who have been thinking about pastor's class -[671.50 --> 674.16] and who want to do Profession of Faith as well. -[674.16 --> 677.66] If that's you, talk to myself or to Pastor Kevin after the service. -[678.14 --> 683.16] Also, if you have been visiting with us either in person or online and you want to talk about -[683.16 --> 687.48] membership and what that might look like, becoming part of our covenant family, gather -[687.48 --> 688.36] me after the service. -[688.48 --> 692.40] There's a few people that we're going to be connecting with over the next little while -[692.40 --> 693.46] in that regard too. -[693.70 --> 696.38] And so grab me and we'll have a good conversation about that. -[697.82 --> 698.82] I think that's it. -[699.56 --> 700.84] All right, let's worship God together. -[700.84 --> 703.50] Can I ask you to stand if you are able and where you are? -[703.50 --> 707.48] And God is going to usher us into his presence with his greeting. -[711.04 --> 714.64] Open your hearts then to receive the greeting of our God. -[716.04 --> 722.18] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, -[722.44 --> 726.24] and our Savior through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[727.04 --> 727.42] Amen. -[727.92 --> 728.68] Let's worship God. -[728.68 --> 735.22] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 145. -[736.22 --> 741.62] The Lord is righteous in all his ways and faithful in all he does. -[742.36 --> 749.32] The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. -[749.32 --> 752.84] My mouth will speak in praise of the Lord. -[753.52 --> 757.42] Let every creature praise his holy name forever and ever. -[757.42 --> 766.96] Be my kind, God of Abraham. -[766.96 --> 785.48] Lead me by your hand, you are strong and wise. -[785.48 --> 790.72] I want to trust in you and in all I do. -[790.82 --> 793.46] Bring you honor and praise. -[793.46 --> 801.64] How I love you, great and mighty King. -[801.88 --> 811.58] You are faithful through the ages you never change. -[811.58 --> 817.56] Be my kind, God of Abraham. -[817.56 --> 818.56] Be my kind, God of Abraham. -[818.56 --> 821.64] Be my kind in the dark of night. -[821.92 --> 825.86] Set all fear to fight you, our hope and truth. -[826.92 --> 831.76] I want to trust in you and in all I do. -[831.90 --> 834.56] Bring you honor and praise. -[834.56 --> 842.66] How I love you, great and mighty King. -[842.66 --> 852.68] You are faithful through the ages you never change. -[852.68 --> 874.66] Be my kind, God of Abraham. -[874.66 --> 878.06] Be my guide for the road ahead. -[878.06 --> 883.16] Should I feel misled, you are just and good. -[884.20 --> 889.20] I want to trust in you and in all I do. -[889.38 --> 892.16] Bring you honor and praise. -[892.16 --> 900.46] How I love you, great and mighty King. -[900.46 --> 909.06] You are faithful through the ages you never change. -[909.06 --> 916.86] How I love you, great and mighty King. -[916.86 --> 927.14] You are faithful through the ages you never change. -[933.32 --> 940.50] The Lord is trustworthy in all he promises and faithful in all he does. -[940.50 --> 946.64] The Lord upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down. -[946.64 --> 953.48] The eyes of all look to you and you give them their food at the proper time. -[953.48 --> 959.34] You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing. -[970.50 --> 973.64] The Lord is warments of every living thing. -[973.64 --> 976.04] The Lord isundoly with us. -[976.04 --> 978.98] Thank you. -[979.00 --> 980.54] The Lord is Military Jacks Perfection -[980.54 --> 983.90] New animation -[984.46 --> 986.22] Highest 2019 -[992.30 --> 992.58] Mon reste -[994.62 --> 998.48] huggy -[998.48 --> 1006.14] You're the one that guides my heart. -[1008.48 --> 1011.22] Lord, I need you. -[1011.56 --> 1015.80] Oh, I need you. -[1015.80 --> 1022.80] Every hour I need you. -[1022.80 --> 1029.60] My one defense, my righteousness. -[1030.50 --> 1035.42] Oh, God, how I need you. -[1039.42 --> 1046.80] Where sin runs deep, your grace is more. -[1046.80 --> 1053.80] Where grace is found is where you are. -[1054.60 --> 1060.80] And where you are, Lord, I am free. -[1061.98 --> 1067.50] Holiness is Christ in me. -[1067.50 --> 1075.02] And where you are, Lord, I am free. -[1075.96 --> 1082.50] Holiness is Christ in me. -[1082.50 --> 1089.16] Lord, I need you. -[1089.48 --> 1093.72] Oh, I need you. -[1094.58 --> 1100.50] Every hour I need you. -[1100.50 --> 1107.28] My one defense, my righteousness. -[1108.04 --> 1113.50] Oh, God, how I need you. -[1115.26 --> 1119.00] So put my eyes to you. -[1119.00 --> 1126.00] When temptation comes my way. -[1126.80 --> 1131.24] And when I cannot stand, I'll fall on you. -[1133.24 --> 1137.38] Jesus, you're my hope and stay. -[1137.38 --> 1156.38] Lord, I need you. -[1156.38 --> 1161.38] Oh, I need you. -[1161.38 --> 1167.38] Every hour I need you. -[1167.38 --> 1174.50] My one defense, my righteousness. -[1175.42 --> 1180.06] Oh, God, how I need you. -[1180.06 --> 1210.04] Lord, I need you. -[1210.06 --> 1217.06] My one defense, my righteousness. -[1217.06 --> 1224.06] Oh, God, how I need you. -[1224.06 --> 1227.02] Oh, God, how I need you. -[1227.06 --> 1233.06] Oh, God, how I need you. -[1233.06 --> 1239.06] Oh, God, how I need you. -[1239.06 --> 1269.04] Speak, O Lord, as we come to you, -[1269.04 --> 1277.24] To receive the food of your holy word -[1277.24 --> 1283.72] Take your truth, plant it deep in us -[1283.72 --> 1291.32] Shape and fashion us in your likeness -[1291.32 --> 1298.38] Where the Lord of Christ might be seen today -[1298.38 --> 1306.78] In our acts of love and our deeds of faith -[1306.78 --> 1313.32] Speak, O Lord, and fulfill in us -[1313.32 --> 1320.46] For your purposes, for your glory -[1320.46 --> 1335.42] Teach us, Lord, full obedience -[1335.42 --> 1343.22] Holy reverence, true humility -[1343.22 --> 1350.60] Test our thoughts and our attitudes -[1350.60 --> 1358.18] In the radiance of your purity -[1358.18 --> 1362.46] Cause our faith to rise -[1362.46 --> 1365.78] Cause our lives to see -[1365.78 --> 1373.16] Your majestic love and authority -[1373.16 --> 1380.70] Words of power that can never fail -[1380.70 --> 1387.78] Let their truth prevail over unbelief -[1387.78 --> 1403.82] Speak, O Lord, and renew our minds -[1403.82 --> 1412.40] Help us grasp the heights of your plans for us -[1412.40 --> 1419.42] Truths unchanged from the dawn of time -[1419.78 --> 1426.46] That will echo down through eternity -[1426.46 --> 1434.14] And by grace we'll stand on your promises -[1434.14 --> 1442.52] And by faith we'll walk as you walk with us -[1442.52 --> 1449.68] Speak, O Lord, till your church is built -[1449.68 --> 1456.88] And the earth is filled with your glory -[1456.88 --> 1461.14] You may have a seat -[1461.14 --> 1461.16] You may have a seat -[1461.16 --> 1464.26] You may have a seat -[1464.26 --> 1494.24] You may have a seat -[1494.26 --> 1495.94] You may have a seat -[1495.94 --> 1510.14] You may have a seat -[1510.14 --> 1511.68] I love speaking so much -[1511.68 --> 1514.66] And so we are going to hear their testimonies right now -[1514.66 --> 1515.44] We have today -[1515.44 --> 1518.22] Jared Elkma, Hadassah Klosterhough -[1518.22 --> 1520.28] And Noah Hubert -[1520.28 --> 1520.94] Are going to come forward -[1520.94 --> 1522.36] So I'm going to invite them -[1522.36 --> 1523.80] And their mentor up -[1523.80 --> 1524.60] One at a time -[1524.60 --> 1525.26] And we're going to start -[1525.26 --> 1526.76] With Jared Elkma -[1526.76 --> 1527.76] And Josh Chamberlain -[1527.76 --> 1528.64] You can come forward as well -[1528.64 --> 1547.68] My name is Jared -[1547.68 --> 1551.86] So when I started thinking about -[1551.86 --> 1553.00] What I wanted to share -[1553.00 --> 1553.94] I was trying to find -[1553.94 --> 1557.46] Some big, inspiring, life-changing experience -[1557.46 --> 1558.20] That I could share -[1558.20 --> 1560.28] But nothing was coming to mind -[1560.28 --> 1561.94] And the more I thought about it -[1561.94 --> 1562.80] The more I realized -[1562.80 --> 1565.08] That I've had life-changing people around me -[1565.08 --> 1566.10] For my entire life -[1566.10 --> 1567.60] People that have stopped -[1567.60 --> 1568.38] And made me think -[1568.38 --> 1569.66] I want to be like them -[1569.66 --> 1572.26] And I realized yesterday -[1572.26 --> 1573.86] As I was talking to a member -[1573.86 --> 1574.68] Of this congregation -[1574.68 --> 1576.80] That that's God shining through us -[1576.80 --> 1578.22] They pointed that out to me -[1578.22 --> 1579.94] And which I thought was pretty cool -[1579.94 --> 1582.50] And I think it's the little things like that -[1582.50 --> 1583.70] From lots of different people -[1583.70 --> 1586.36] That are constantly changing -[1586.36 --> 1587.36] And shaping me -[1587.36 --> 1588.62] Into who I am now -[1588.62 --> 1590.64] And where my faith is now as well -[1590.64 --> 1593.78] So having a crazy, eye-opening experience -[1593.78 --> 1595.80] Isn't necessary to a strong faith -[1595.80 --> 1597.42] And a good relationship with God -[1597.42 --> 1600.64] But you do need two things -[1600.64 --> 1602.44] Support and community -[1602.44 --> 1604.02] And there are countless examples -[1604.02 --> 1605.18] Of our church supporting -[1605.18 --> 1607.42] And creating a loving, caring community -[1607.42 --> 1608.60] And that's why I'm excited -[1608.60 --> 1609.80] To profess my faith -[1609.80 --> 1611.80] In front of this awesome community -[1611.80 --> 1614.04] That has played a huge part in my life -[1614.04 --> 1617.74] Ecclesiastes 4, 9, and 10 -[1617.74 --> 1619.38] Says two are better than one -[1619.38 --> 1621.28] Because they have good return for their labor -[1621.28 --> 1622.64] If either falls down -[1622.64 --> 1623.92] One can help the other up -[1623.92 --> 1625.56] And that's exactly what I've seen -[1625.56 --> 1627.78] This community do over and over again -[1627.78 --> 1629.34] Helping a church member -[1629.34 --> 1630.18] When they have fallen -[1630.18 --> 1633.60] And knowing that they have the support -[1633.60 --> 1635.16] Of a whole church behind them -[1635.16 --> 1643.52] Okay -[1643.52 --> 1646.92] The first time I went for lunch with Jared -[1646.92 --> 1649.06] Was at Ricky's up the hill -[1649.06 --> 1651.84] He didn't make it easy to get to know him -[1651.84 --> 1653.94] Because he would only answer with one word -[1653.94 --> 1655.06] Every question -[1655.06 --> 1657.34] I'd say, how are you doing? -[1657.60 --> 1657.92] Good -[1657.92 --> 1659.52] So how's the family? -[1659.78 --> 1660.10] Good -[1660.10 --> 1661.72] What's your favorite thing? -[1662.20 --> 1662.58] Sports -[1662.58 --> 1665.40] It's nothing else -[1665.40 --> 1671.08] It took about the whole time -[1671.08 --> 1673.04] I think the first time he said -[1673.04 --> 1674.74] A full sentence to me was yesterday -[1674.74 --> 1678.92] When he asked me to do this -[1679.48 --> 1685.70] Jared doesn't waste his energy -[1685.70 --> 1687.30] He doesn't waste his time -[1687.30 --> 1690.42] Sometimes that's because people think he's lazy -[1690.42 --> 1692.98] But when he's playing hockey -[1692.98 --> 1695.00] Like I got a watch the other day -[1695.00 --> 1697.18] The ball would go up -[1697.18 --> 1698.20] They would lose control -[1698.20 --> 1699.74] And it would go to the other side of the field -[1699.74 --> 1703.54] And he would just nonchalantly walk to the middle line -[1703.54 --> 1706.14] While the rest of his team rushes to the front -[1706.14 --> 1710.32] That's not because he's lazy -[1710.32 --> 1711.44] Or he doesn't want to run -[1711.44 --> 1712.84] It's because he knows he doesn't have to -[1712.84 --> 1714.96] Because the ball is going to come right back -[1714.96 --> 1716.26] Because his team is going to lose it -[1716.26 --> 1717.94] And then he's going to have to catch it for them -[1717.94 --> 1724.34] In 2020 and in Bible studies -[1724.34 --> 1727.08] He, like before, wouldn't say very much -[1727.08 --> 1729.54] But when he asked his one question that he would ask -[1729.54 --> 1731.08] It was always to the heart -[1731.08 --> 1733.78] And it was always the one question that mattered -[1733.78 --> 1737.88] This is because Jared is wise -[1737.88 --> 1739.84] He doesn't waste time -[1739.84 --> 1742.08] He seeks the right path -[1742.08 --> 1743.22] And he goes down it -[1743.22 --> 1745.96] Whatever he's doing -[1745.96 --> 1747.56] He does to his best -[1747.56 --> 1751.08] Proverbs 1.7 says -[1751.08 --> 1753.22] The fear of the Lord is the beginning of all wisdom -[1753.22 --> 1758.26] Today, Jared has used the wisdom -[1758.26 --> 1760.10] That God has given him to choose God -[1760.10 --> 1762.20] To respond back to his call -[1762.20 --> 1767.10] Continue to seek God, Jared -[1767.10 --> 1768.10] Because you're a great man -[1768.10 --> 1768.94] And you're a wise man -[1768.94 --> 1781.22] I got caught up in a hug there -[1781.22 --> 1781.78] That was nice -[1781.78 --> 1784.94] I'm going to invite Hadassah Klosterhof -[1784.94 --> 1785.54] She's going to come up -[1785.54 --> 1786.80] And she's going to share her testimony -[1786.80 --> 1788.88] Her mentor is Heather Vartstra -[1788.88 --> 1790.78] But sadly she's not able to be here today -[1790.78 --> 1792.86] So Heather's written up a beautiful little thing -[1792.86 --> 1793.60] That I get to read -[1793.60 --> 1795.00] So we'll get to that in a second -[1795.00 --> 1796.68] But that's where Heather is right now -[1797.68 --> 1805.86] Okay, so I wasn't really sure what to do for this -[1805.86 --> 1809.72] Because my whole life has been very, like, laid out for me -[1809.72 --> 1812.66] I haven't had a lot of, like, struggles when it comes to faith -[1812.66 --> 1814.40] Because I've grown up in this church -[1814.40 --> 1815.64] I went to a Christian school -[1815.64 --> 1817.58] Not many big events have happened -[1817.58 --> 1819.40] But the past year -[1819.40 --> 1821.76] I've really been, like, working on that -[1821.76 --> 1824.40] Because I've never really had to make my faith my own -[1824.40 --> 1828.12] But especially in the last term of school -[1828.12 --> 1829.20] When I had Bible class -[1829.20 --> 1831.24] I was really learning how to do that -[1831.24 --> 1832.64] And how to make my faith my own -[1832.64 --> 1834.24] And now I'm graduated -[1834.24 --> 1835.68] And I have to make my life my own -[1835.68 --> 1837.64] And I think this is the next step for me -[1837.64 --> 1839.10] For making my faith my own -[1839.10 --> 1841.14] So, yeah, that's it -[1841.14 --> 1846.18] All right, so again -[1846.18 --> 1847.60] These are Heather's words -[1847.60 --> 1849.30] I mean, I feel them too -[1849.30 --> 1850.24] But these are Heather's words -[1850.24 --> 1851.44] So when you hear I -[1851.44 --> 1852.24] It's not me -[1852.24 --> 1853.08] It's Heather Vartstra -[1853.08 --> 1854.26] So this is what Heather says -[1854.26 --> 1854.70] She says -[1854.70 --> 1856.82] Happy profession of faith, Hadassah -[1856.82 --> 1858.50] Wish I could be here in person -[1858.50 --> 1859.88] But I'm thankful this can get read -[1859.88 --> 1862.64] I have had the privilege of being Hadassah's youth leader -[1862.64 --> 1863.88] For the past five years -[1863.88 --> 1867.52] Hadassah is kind, caring, fun, loving -[1867.52 --> 1869.84] And overall an amazing young lady -[1869.84 --> 1872.40] One of the things that I have always admired about Hadassah -[1872.40 --> 1874.28] Is the wisdom she has in her faith -[1874.28 --> 1877.22] Not only does she know her Bible better than I do -[1877.22 --> 1877.78] Heather -[1877.78 --> 1880.80] But she also actively strives to live it out -[1880.80 --> 1882.38] She thinks of others -[1882.38 --> 1883.38] Prays intentionally -[1883.38 --> 1885.42] And offers biblical advice to her peers -[1885.42 --> 1887.28] Hadassah probably knows her Bible better than me too -[1887.28 --> 1887.56] So -[1887.56 --> 1891.46] She has provided so much insight into our small group -[1891.46 --> 1893.14] And I have learned so much from her -[1893.14 --> 1895.94] I am just so thankful she is standing up here today -[1895.94 --> 1897.26] To share her faith with us all -[1897.26 --> 1899.34] I have a verse to share with you, Hadassah -[1899.34 --> 1901.90] And it's paraphrased from my favorite devotional -[1901.90 --> 1903.46] Come Away, My Beloved -[1903.46 --> 1904.56] By Francis Roberts -[1904.56 --> 1905.94] It says -[1905.94 --> 1907.66] I have led you in right paths -[1907.66 --> 1910.12] When you walk, your steps will not be hindered -[1910.12 --> 1912.22] And when you run, you will not stumble -[1912.22 --> 1914.58] It comes from Proverbs 4, 11, and 12 -[1914.58 --> 1917.12] I'm so proud of you, Hadassah -[1917.12 --> 1918.52] Always be you -[1918.52 --> 1920.40] And trust Jesus with your whole heart -[1920.40 --> 1922.00] He will always be with you -[1922.00 --> 1924.00] He will always help you -[1924.00 --> 1925.70] And he will always show you the way -[1925.70 --> 1928.00] Keep sharing your wise heart for the Lord -[1928.00 --> 1928.90] And with the world -[1928.90 --> 1930.08] Love, Heather -[1930.08 --> 1939.90] Alright, and thirdly -[1939.90 --> 1941.52] We have Noah Hubertz -[1941.52 --> 1942.50] Is going to come forward -[1942.50 --> 1944.02] And his spiritual mentor is -[1944.02 --> 1945.12] Nathan Visser -[1945.12 --> 1962.56] So the past few days -[1962.56 --> 1963.08] Like Jared -[1963.08 --> 1964.90] I was trying to plan something to say -[1964.90 --> 1967.18] And Kevin told me to write it on a piece of paper -[1967.18 --> 1968.86] So I wrote it on my hand -[1968.86 --> 1971.16] But it never made it on my hand either -[1971.16 --> 1973.12] So I'm going for it -[1973.12 --> 1974.88] I have these two friends -[1974.88 --> 1976.06] One was up here -[1976.06 --> 1976.78] Jared -[1976.78 --> 1981.64] And another one is here on this world somewhere -[1981.64 --> 1982.40] I don't know where he is -[1982.40 --> 1983.12] It's Carson Grimm -[1983.12 --> 1986.12] Oh, he is maybe here -[1986.12 --> 1986.60] I don't know -[1986.60 --> 1988.46] So those are two people -[1988.46 --> 1990.34] That I've always looked down to -[1990.34 --> 1991.08] But also up to -[1991.08 --> 1992.56] First is Jared -[1992.56 --> 1994.60] Like Josh said before -[1994.60 --> 1995.56] He's pretty wise -[1995.56 --> 1996.86] And he takes things seriously -[1996.86 --> 1998.52] He wants to -[1998.52 --> 1999.72] Think about things -[1999.72 --> 2001.36] Before he does them -[2001.36 --> 2002.28] It's something that I've -[2002.28 --> 2003.62] Wanted to do with my faith -[2003.62 --> 2004.74] I wanted to think about it -[2004.74 --> 2005.76] And -[2005.76 --> 2008.38] Know that the time was right -[2008.38 --> 2009.90] So I've done that most of my life -[2009.90 --> 2010.10] But -[2010.10 --> 2012.28] I kind of wanted to change that as well -[2012.28 --> 2013.22] And that's when my -[2013.22 --> 2014.82] Crazy friend Carson comes in -[2014.82 --> 2015.38] And he -[2015.38 --> 2017.12] Doesn't usually think about it -[2017.12 --> 2018.04] And he just does it -[2018.04 --> 2018.94] So -[2018.94 --> 2021.08] I wanted to do that today -[2021.08 --> 2022.20] I wanted to go for it -[2022.20 --> 2023.32] That's not a bad thing -[2023.32 --> 2024.02] Going for it -[2024.02 --> 2025.90] But I wanted to really -[2025.90 --> 2027.50] Take the next step in my faith -[2027.50 --> 2029.22] This church has been amazing -[2029.22 --> 2030.56] And I'm really thankful that -[2030.56 --> 2031.64] I've been a part of it -[2031.64 --> 2032.82] And taking that next step -[2032.82 --> 2034.42] For me -[2034.42 --> 2035.28] Will be -[2035.28 --> 2036.38] A great step -[2036.38 --> 2036.70] And -[2036.70 --> 2038.20] Filling those shoes -[2038.20 --> 2039.48] Won't be that difficult for me -[2039.48 --> 2039.68] So -[2039.68 --> 2040.10] Yeah -[2040.10 --> 2045.78] All right -[2045.78 --> 2052.06] All right -[2052.06 --> 2053.36] Just something I wrote up yesterday -[2053.36 --> 2054.36] Thinking about this -[2054.36 --> 2055.64] Holy -[2055.64 --> 2056.34] This thing moves -[2056.34 --> 2057.86] Noah -[2057.86 --> 2058.80] While I've been thinking about -[2058.80 --> 2060.28] What to say on this big day of yours -[2060.28 --> 2061.76] One thing kept coming back to me -[2061.76 --> 2064.10] You've literally been a part of my entire adult life -[2064.10 --> 2064.62] So far -[2064.62 --> 2065.98] All the way from me graduating -[2065.98 --> 2066.98] To this point now -[2066.98 --> 2068.92] I don't think you understand the impact -[2068.92 --> 2070.44] That you've had on my life personally -[2070.44 --> 2073.56] Your consistent dedication to doing the right thing -[2073.56 --> 2075.70] Asking and answering the tough questions -[2075.70 --> 2077.24] And standing firmly in your faith -[2077.24 --> 2078.50] Has impacted myself -[2078.50 --> 2079.74] And everyone else -[2079.74 --> 2080.96] Who finds himself blessed enough -[2080.96 --> 2081.76] To be around you -[2081.76 --> 2083.78] As you stand in front of this -[2083.78 --> 2085.50] Bodies of brothers and sisters in Christ -[2085.50 --> 2086.96] I want you to look at all the faces -[2086.96 --> 2088.02] Of support and love -[2088.02 --> 2089.84] These are the people who promised you -[2089.84 --> 2090.90] Noah as a child -[2090.90 --> 2092.22] That they would encourage you -[2092.22 --> 2093.26] Uplift you -[2093.26 --> 2094.28] And help you develop -[2094.28 --> 2095.28] In your everyday walk -[2095.28 --> 2096.16] With our Lord and Savior -[2096.16 --> 2098.82] As you publicly profess your faith -[2098.82 --> 2099.90] In front of this group of people -[2099.90 --> 2100.94] I want to remind you -[2100.94 --> 2101.78] That this isn't the end -[2101.78 --> 2102.94] Of that beautiful relationship -[2102.94 --> 2103.94] I encourage you -[2103.94 --> 2104.90] To use these people -[2104.90 --> 2106.46] To continue to grow -[2106.46 --> 2107.90] Into an amazing man of God -[2107.90 --> 2110.50] While you profess your faith here today -[2110.50 --> 2111.94] I want to give you a word of caution -[2111.94 --> 2113.14] Of trials and tribulations -[2113.14 --> 2113.86] You'll be put through -[2113.86 --> 2114.66] Beyond these walls -[2114.66 --> 2115.88] I want to encourage you -[2115.88 --> 2117.30] To root yourself in the cross -[2117.30 --> 2118.82] And use those trials -[2118.82 --> 2120.54] To strengthen and profess your faith -[2120.54 --> 2121.68] Daily beyond this building -[2121.68 --> 2124.98] Quickly a word from Hebrews 10 -[2124.98 --> 2126.16] Let us hold fast -[2126.16 --> 2127.54] The confession of our hope -[2127.54 --> 2128.40] Without wavering -[2128.40 --> 2130.38] For he who promised is faithful -[2130.38 --> 2132.10] And let us consider one another -[2132.10 --> 2133.42] In order to stir up love -[2133.42 --> 2134.22] And good works -[2134.22 --> 2135.90] Not forsaking the assembly -[2135.90 --> 2136.86] Of ourselves together -[2136.86 --> 2138.28] As is the manner of some -[2138.28 --> 2140.02] But exhorting one another -[2140.02 --> 2141.26] And so much the more -[2141.26 --> 2142.54] As you see the day approaching -[2142.54 --> 2144.78] Noah, I don't think you understand -[2144.78 --> 2146.02] How beyond honored I am -[2146.02 --> 2146.88] To be the one you asked -[2146.88 --> 2147.60] To speak here today -[2147.60 --> 2148.32] On your behalf -[2148.32 --> 2149.78] I'm happy to now have you -[2149.78 --> 2150.98] As a friend rather than a youth -[2150.98 --> 2151.70] Congratulations -[2151.70 --> 2161.32] Thank you -[2162.10 --> 2163.92] We're well sorry -[2163.92 --> 2166.86] I will invite Hadassah back forward -[2166.86 --> 2167.82] And Jared as well -[2167.82 --> 2168.58] And then Pastor Chris -[2168.58 --> 2170.02] Is going to lead you in -[2170.02 --> 2171.88] The rest of this profession of faith -[2171.88 --> 2182.34] So we have a bunch of comedians -[2182.34 --> 2183.14] In this church -[2183.14 --> 2185.02] Funniest thing there -[2185.02 --> 2185.98] Was Josh trying to talk -[2185.98 --> 2187.08] About sports though right -[2187.08 --> 2196.24] We have a chance this morning -[2196.24 --> 2198.50] To celebrate with you -[2198.50 --> 2198.94] Guys -[2198.94 --> 2200.26] God's faithfulness -[2200.26 --> 2201.54] And you acknowledging -[2201.54 --> 2203.46] God's faithfulness -[2203.46 --> 2204.40] To you -[2204.40 --> 2205.64] All the way back -[2205.64 --> 2206.78] In their baptisms -[2206.78 --> 2208.70] God extended a promise -[2208.70 --> 2209.18] To them -[2209.18 --> 2210.06] And called them -[2210.06 --> 2212.00] To be part of us -[2212.00 --> 2213.02] And today -[2213.02 --> 2214.68] You make that promise -[2214.68 --> 2216.14] Real for yourselves -[2216.14 --> 2217.58] And we -[2217.58 --> 2219.92] Are so excited for you -[2219.92 --> 2221.74] And also for us -[2221.74 --> 2223.04] As we get to see -[2223.04 --> 2223.60] God's goodness -[2223.60 --> 2224.54] Express through you -[2224.54 --> 2225.82] We're going to ask -[2225.82 --> 2226.48] Each of you -[2226.48 --> 2227.14] Some questions -[2227.14 --> 2228.12] There's four of them -[2228.12 --> 2229.06] And then I'm going to -[2229.06 --> 2229.86] Invite you to make -[2229.86 --> 2231.06] Your profession of faith -[2231.06 --> 2231.82] In response -[2231.82 --> 2232.46] You can say -[2232.46 --> 2232.96] I do -[2232.96 --> 2233.96] God helping me -[2233.96 --> 2235.34] And then church -[2235.34 --> 2236.00] We're going to ask you -[2236.00 --> 2236.60] A question -[2236.60 --> 2238.52] To respond with a promise -[2238.52 --> 2239.76] Of support and encouragement -[2239.76 --> 2240.76] For them -[2240.76 --> 2241.68] Just like we did -[2241.68 --> 2243.16] Many many years ago -[2243.16 --> 2243.96] In their baptism -[2243.96 --> 2245.58] We offer that same promise -[2245.58 --> 2246.64] Again -[2246.64 --> 2248.18] And so -[2248.18 --> 2249.78] Jared -[2249.78 --> 2250.64] Noah -[2250.64 --> 2251.68] And Hadassah -[2251.68 --> 2253.44] Do you believe -[2253.44 --> 2254.68] That Jesus Christ -[2254.68 --> 2255.96] Is the son of God -[2255.96 --> 2257.22] Sent to redeem the world -[2257.22 --> 2258.68] Do you love -[2258.68 --> 2259.56] And trust him -[2259.56 --> 2260.18] As the one -[2260.18 --> 2260.98] Who saves you -[2260.98 --> 2261.78] From your sin -[2261.78 --> 2262.92] And do you -[2262.92 --> 2263.72] With repentance -[2263.72 --> 2264.42] And joy -[2264.42 --> 2265.58] Embrace him -[2265.58 --> 2267.02] As lord of your life -[2267.02 --> 2268.12] Two -[2268.12 --> 2269.46] Do you believe -[2269.46 --> 2270.06] That the Bible -[2270.06 --> 2271.06] Is the word of God -[2271.06 --> 2272.38] Revealing Christ -[2272.38 --> 2273.34] And his redemption -[2273.34 --> 2274.44] And that the confessions -[2274.44 --> 2275.56] Of this church -[2275.56 --> 2277.00] Faithfully reflect -[2277.00 --> 2277.92] This revelation -[2277.92 --> 2279.96] Three -[2279.96 --> 2280.96] Do you accept -[2280.96 --> 2282.20] The gracious promises -[2282.20 --> 2282.76] Of God -[2282.76 --> 2283.66] Sealed to you -[2283.66 --> 2284.44] In your baptism -[2284.44 --> 2285.82] And do you affirm -[2285.82 --> 2287.04] Your union with Christ -[2287.04 --> 2287.82] And his church -[2287.82 --> 2289.10] Which your baptism -[2289.10 --> 2290.12] Signifies -[2290.12 --> 2291.88] And four -[2291.88 --> 2292.70] Do you promise -[2292.70 --> 2293.92] To do all that you can -[2293.92 --> 2294.46] With the help -[2294.46 --> 2295.30] Of the Holy Spirit -[2295.30 --> 2296.82] To strengthen your love -[2296.82 --> 2298.10] And commitment to Christ -[2298.10 --> 2299.44] By sharing faithfully -[2299.44 --> 2301.08] In the life of the church -[2301.08 --> 2302.84] Honoring and submitting -[2302.84 --> 2303.80] To its authority -[2303.80 --> 2305.12] And do you join -[2305.12 --> 2306.46] With these people -[2306.46 --> 2307.02] Of God -[2307.02 --> 2307.92] To do the work -[2307.92 --> 2308.78] Of the Lord -[2308.78 --> 2309.66] Everywhere -[2309.66 --> 2311.18] Hadassah -[2311.18 --> 2311.96] What is your answer -[2311.96 --> 2314.00] Jared -[2314.00 --> 2314.90] What is your answer -[2314.90 --> 2317.10] Noah -[2317.10 --> 2318.20] What is your answer -[2318.20 --> 2320.50] Amen -[2320.50 --> 2322.84] In the name -[2322.84 --> 2323.44] Of the Lord -[2323.44 --> 2324.48] Jesus Christ -[2324.48 --> 2325.42] Then I now -[2325.42 --> 2326.10] Welcome you -[2326.10 --> 2327.30] To all the privileges -[2327.30 --> 2328.98] Of full communion -[2328.98 --> 2329.98] I welcome you -[2329.98 --> 2331.38] To the full participation -[2331.38 --> 2332.26] In the life -[2332.26 --> 2332.80] Of the church -[2332.80 --> 2333.44] I welcome you -[2333.44 --> 2334.46] To its responsibilities -[2334.46 --> 2335.82] And its joys -[2335.82 --> 2337.12] And its sufferings -[2337.12 --> 2338.82] May the peace -[2338.82 --> 2339.80] Of God -[2339.80 --> 2340.76] Who through the blood -[2340.76 --> 2341.78] Of the eternal covenant -[2341.78 --> 2342.90] Brought back from the dead -[2342.90 --> 2343.60] Our Lord -[2343.60 --> 2344.44] Jesus Christ -[2344.44 --> 2345.48] The great shepherd -[2345.48 --> 2346.14] Of the sheep -[2346.14 --> 2347.22] Equip you -[2347.22 --> 2348.52] With everything good -[2348.52 --> 2350.38] For doing his will -[2350.38 --> 2351.62] And may he work -[2351.62 --> 2352.32] In us -[2352.32 --> 2353.10] What is pleasing -[2353.10 --> 2353.56] To him -[2353.56 --> 2355.04] Through Jesus Christ -[2355.04 --> 2356.54] To whom be the glory -[2356.54 --> 2357.12] Forever -[2357.12 --> 2358.26] And ever -[2358.26 --> 2359.26] Amen -[2359.26 --> 2362.24] And now to you -[2362.24 --> 2363.12] Congregation -[2363.12 --> 2364.40] I invite you also -[2364.40 --> 2365.86] To respond -[2365.86 --> 2366.66] If in fact -[2366.66 --> 2367.48] You do agree -[2367.48 --> 2368.28] By saying -[2368.28 --> 2369.22] We do -[2369.22 --> 2370.66] God helping us -[2370.66 --> 2372.26] Do you -[2372.26 --> 2373.96] The people of God -[2373.96 --> 2374.90] Promise -[2374.90 --> 2375.64] Hadassah -[2375.64 --> 2376.38] Jared -[2376.38 --> 2377.14] And Noah -[2377.14 --> 2378.26] Your love -[2378.26 --> 2379.32] Encouragement -[2379.32 --> 2380.34] And prayers -[2380.34 --> 2384.44] Amen -[2384.44 --> 2385.52] At this point -[2385.52 --> 2386.18] I'm going to invite -[2386.18 --> 2387.26] Elder Frank -[2387.26 --> 2388.04] To come forward -[2388.04 --> 2389.00] He's going to present you -[2389.00 --> 2389.76] With certificates -[2389.76 --> 2391.36] And a gift -[2391.36 --> 2420.64] Frank you might as well -[2420.64 --> 2421.30] Stay up here -[2421.30 --> 2423.04] As an elder -[2423.04 --> 2424.44] I'm going to ask you guys -[2424.44 --> 2425.60] Just to spread a little bit -[2425.60 --> 2427.26] So take a step to your sides -[2427.26 --> 2428.56] Jared you can stay right in the middle -[2428.56 --> 2429.52] At this point -[2429.52 --> 2430.74] We're going to pray over them -[2430.74 --> 2431.64] And to do that -[2431.64 --> 2432.60] I'm going to invite -[2432.60 --> 2433.74] Their families -[2433.74 --> 2434.96] And their spiritual mentors -[2434.96 --> 2435.58] To come up -[2435.58 --> 2437.04] And to surround them in prayer -[2437.04 --> 2439.10] And I'm also going to invite -[2439.10 --> 2440.68] The elders of the church -[2440.68 --> 2442.16] To make their way forward -[2442.16 --> 2444.00] And we're going to lay hands on them -[2444.00 --> 2445.52] The elders come up -[2445.52 --> 2446.36] On your behalf -[2446.36 --> 2447.84] Representing all of us -[2447.84 --> 2449.30] If you are remaining seated -[2449.30 --> 2450.02] I encourage you -[2450.02 --> 2451.06] You can hold your hand out -[2451.06 --> 2453.06] As we pray over them as well -[2453.06 --> 2453.60] So why don't you -[2453.60 --> 2455.50] Make your way up to the front -[2455.50 --> 2456.76] You guys might need to spread -[2456.76 --> 2457.56] A little further -[2457.56 --> 2459.38] Because there are large groups -[2459.38 --> 2460.44] That are about to be up here -[2460.44 --> 2471.62] And I'm going to Marquee -[2471.62 --> 2473.60] I think there are large groups -[2473.60 --> 2492.94] I think we are all up, and I think we might even all be in frame. -[2493.06 --> 2494.60] Good job squeezing in on the sides. -[2496.72 --> 2499.42] Let's pray over these people together. -[2499.42 --> 2512.26] Lord, our God, we thank you for your word and spirit through which we know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. -[2513.86 --> 2524.78] Today, may Jared, Noah, and Hadassah, who confessed your name, never cease to wonder at what you have done for them. -[2524.78 --> 2533.92] Help them to continue firmly in their faith, to bear witness to your love, and to let the Holy Spirit shape their lives. -[2534.90 --> 2541.24] When they have questions and doubts, bring people into their path to provide answers. -[2541.24 --> 2547.96] When they have joys and celebrations, bring people into their midst to share in those. -[2549.50 --> 2556.80] Take them, good shepherd, into your care, that they may loyally endure opposition in serving you. -[2558.24 --> 2564.40] And may we, with all your children, live together in the joy and power of your Holy Spirit. -[2564.40 --> 2568.56] We ask this, Lord Jesus, in the hope of your coming. -[2569.02 --> 2572.00] Come quickly, we pray, in Jesus' name. -[2572.52 --> 2574.80] All God's people said, Amen. -[2574.80 --> 2574.94] Amen. -[2574.94 --> 2577.06] Amen. -[2577.06 --> 2577.14] Amen. -[2594.40 --> 2600.94] So we asked these three what song they would like to pick for this service, and one of them chose Cornerstone. -[2601.68 --> 2605.14] Now, I know we sang this song last week, but we talked about it this morning, -[2605.14 --> 2608.78] and we thought it's very fitting that we sang it last week with three baptisms, -[2609.30 --> 2611.94] and now we're singing it again with three professions of faith. -[2612.52 --> 2613.98] Please stand as we sing together. -[2613.98 --> 2614.12] Amen. -[2614.12 --> 2614.32] Amen. -[2614.32 --> 2615.22] Amen. -[2615.22 --> 2615.74] Amen. -[2615.74 --> 2616.24] Amen. -[2616.24 --> 2616.28] Amen. -[2616.28 --> 2616.46] Amen. -[2616.46 --> 2617.22] Amen. -[2617.22 --> 2617.46] Amen. -[2617.46 --> 2617.50] Amen. -[2617.50 --> 2617.98] Amen. -[2617.98 --> 2618.42] Amen. -[2618.42 --> 2619.02] Amen. -[2619.02 --> 2619.50] Amen. -[2624.40 --> 2632.88] Amen. -[2633.40 --> 2633.94] Amen. -[2633.94 --> 2644.38] My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness. -[2646.54 --> 2647.16] Amen. -[2647.16 --> 2652.32] I dare not trust the sweetest frame. -[2652.32 --> 2658.98] But wholly trust in Jesus' name -[2658.98 --> 2669.56] My hope is built on nothing less -[2669.56 --> 2673.92] Than Jesus' blood and righteousness -[2673.92 --> 2681.92] I dare not trust the sweetest praise -[2681.92 --> 2688.64] But wholly trust in Jesus' name -[2688.64 --> 2696.92] Christ alone, cornerstone -[2696.92 --> 2704.16] Weak made strong in the Savior's love -[2704.16 --> 2710.74] Through the storm, He is Lord -[2710.74 --> 2715.46] Lord of all -[2715.46 --> 2725.72] When darkness seems to hide His face -[2725.72 --> 2731.46] I rest on His unchanging grace -[2731.46 --> 2738.18] In every high and stormy gale -[2738.18 --> 2745.18] My anchor holds within the veil -[2745.18 --> 2751.90] My anchor holds within the veil -[2751.90 --> 2758.62] Christ alone, cornerstone -[2758.62 --> 2766.08] Weak made strong in the Savior's love -[2766.08 --> 2772.68] Through the storm, He is Lord -[2772.68 --> 2777.40] Lord of all -[2777.40 --> 2787.12] When He shall come with trumpet sound -[2787.12 --> 2793.12] Oh, may I then in Him be found -[2793.12 --> 2799.84] Dressed in His righteousness alone -[2799.84 --> 2805.84] Faultless stand before the throne -[2805.84 --> 2807.64] God of all -[2807.64 --> 2824.56] Who stroll Stators -[2824.56 --> 2854.54] Thank you. -[2854.56 --> 2884.54] Thank you. -[2884.56 --> 2896.20] Christ alone, cornerstone, weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[2896.60 --> 2905.56] Through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[2905.56 --> 2919.64] You may have a seat. -[2919.64 --> 2927.36] I would, wow! -[2927.86 --> 2929.94] I forget how loud my voice is sometimes. -[2930.14 --> 2933.10] I would love to invite the kids to come forward. -[2933.58 --> 2938.28] And we are going to sit here for a second and then pray, and then it's time for children's worship time. -[2938.28 --> 2941.94] So if any kids want to come forward right now, that would be awesome. -[2945.82 --> 2946.68] Here we go. -[2946.74 --> 2947.42] Here comes some. -[2947.42 --> 2953.86] Hi, everyone. -[2957.38 --> 2958.98] It's good to see you all today. -[2959.08 --> 2959.54] How's it going? -[2960.42 --> 2960.82] Yeah? -[2960.82 --> 2964.70] All right. -[2966.30 --> 2972.46] So we're going to, I'm going to pray, and then you're going to head off to children's worship time after, but we're going to do the kids' blessing. -[2972.58 --> 2974.16] Do you remember how the kids' blessing goes? -[2975.02 --> 2975.28] No? -[2975.38 --> 2983.82] We're going to say, we're going to, I'm going to pray first, and then we're going to stand, and we're going to put our hands up like this, and we're going to look at the church, and we're going to say, the Lord be with you. -[2983.82 --> 2985.46] And then they're going to say it back to us, okay? -[2985.64 --> 2986.76] Do you think we can do that after? -[2987.30 --> 2987.92] I think so, too. -[2988.00 --> 2989.78] Okay, let me pray, and then we'll try that, okay? -[2991.36 --> 2993.46] Dear God, we thank you so much for this day. -[2993.64 --> 2999.48] Thank you that we could come to church, that we could sing again, that we could be a part of this covenant family. -[2999.78 --> 3003.30] Thank you for these kids who are going to go off to children's worship time. -[3003.40 --> 3007.86] Thank you that they are here as well, and they will learn more about what it means to be a follower of you. -[3008.42 --> 3012.98] Be with them in this time as well, and be with all of us who are staying behind and are learning the same thing. -[3012.98 --> 3014.40] We pray this in your name. -[3014.86 --> 3015.18] Amen. -[3015.60 --> 3016.66] Okay, so let's stand up. -[3017.18 --> 3017.98] Let's stand up. -[3018.34 --> 3019.24] Let's turn around. -[3019.38 --> 3021.82] The church is going to stand up, too, because they're really good at this. -[3022.84 --> 3024.88] And now we're going to do this with our hands, all right? -[3024.92 --> 3028.98] You're going to put your hands up, and then I'm going to go one, two, three, and we're going to say, the Lord be with you. -[3029.02 --> 3029.44] Are you ready? -[3030.14 --> 3031.92] One, two, three. -[3032.42 --> 3033.98] The Lord be with you. -[3034.98 --> 3041.78] All right, you guys can head to children's worship time if you're kindergarten or younger, I think. -[3042.98 --> 3046.78] Gee, one, two. -[3061.40 --> 3061.94] There we go. -[3061.94 --> 3073.06] Today's offerings are for our church ministries and missions and for Night Shift, a not-for-profit -[3073.06 --> 3079.98] society that has more than 2,500 volunteers, including community groups and church teams. -[3079.98 --> 3085.42] Nightly outreach happens 365 days a year outside their offices in Wall-E. -[3085.42 --> 3091.76] They offer meals, clothing, crisis counseling, basic nursing, and mobile library and loving -[3091.76 --> 3093.44] community contact. -[3093.44 --> 3098.38] Unless otherwise marked, all donations will go to Night Shift. -[3098.38 --> 3098.52] Thank you. -[3115.42 --> 3145.40] Thank you. -[3145.42 --> 3175.40] Thank you. -[3175.42 --> 3177.42] Thank you. -[3177.42 --> 3182.42] Thank you. -[3182.42 --> 3184.42] Thank you. -[3184.42 --> 3188.42] Thank you. -[3188.42 --> 3195.42] Thank you. -[3195.42 --> 3197.42] Thank you. -[3197.42 --> 3199.42] Thank you. -[3199.42 --> 3208.42] Thank you. -[3208.42 --> 3210.42] Thank you. -[3210.42 --> 3212.42] Thank you. -[3212.42 --> 3214.42] Thank you. -[3214.42 --> 3233.42] Thank you. -[3233.42 --> 3263.40] Thank you. -[3263.42 --> 3293.40] Thank you. -[3294.38 --> 3295.28] Good morning. -[3296.86 --> 3299.84] I would like to lead you in church family prayer. -[3304.12 --> 3308.48] Gracious Father, we come to you on this awesome summer morning. -[3308.48 --> 3311.50] We thank you for this new day. -[3312.74 --> 3316.96] A day of worship, rest, fellowship and reflection. -[3318.76 --> 3323.26] As each one of us arose this morning, we are in different states of minds. -[3323.26 --> 3325.12] Some are thankful. -[3325.72 --> 3326.56] Some are worried. -[3327.80 --> 3337.38] Some are dealing with the passing of family, health issues, job situations, chronic pains, relationship struggles. -[3337.38 --> 3346.10] In all these situations, help us to remember your promises from Psalm 100, where it says, -[3346.10 --> 3349.56] Know that the Lord is good, is God. -[3350.32 --> 3353.06] It is he who made us, and we are his. -[3354.12 --> 3357.00] We are his people, the sheep of his pasture. -[3358.28 --> 3361.78] Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise. -[3361.78 --> 3365.84] Give thanks to him and praise his name. -[3367.36 --> 3370.14] For the Lord is good, and his love endures forever. -[3371.34 --> 3374.42] His faithfulness continues through all generations. -[3374.42 --> 3382.56] We thank you, Father, for these words, as they can give us comfort and support in every aspect of our lives. -[3384.80 --> 3387.08] Dear Lord, we pray for the Miles family. -[3388.02 --> 3394.34] Be with Willie and Joanne and their children, as they had a memorial service for the passing of their son Mike this past week. -[3395.92 --> 3397.20] Be with Mike's family. -[3397.42 --> 3401.10] Keep them in your care, Lord, as now they go through life without an earthly father. -[3401.10 --> 3406.00] Also be with Willie, as he is dealing with ongoing health concerns. -[3407.12 --> 3409.64] Father, grant healing and strength for him as well. -[3411.66 --> 3415.10] Lord, we bring before you Bob Viss, who is having treatments for cancer. -[3416.42 --> 3418.64] Give Bob all he needs to deal with these treatments. -[3419.10 --> 3421.62] And Lord, grant his health to be restored. -[3423.28 --> 3428.48] Also be with Louise and their children, as they help and support Bob and process this health concern. -[3428.48 --> 3432.76] Surround them with your spirit as they walk this road. -[3434.52 --> 3438.12] Also be with Benita Smid as she recovers from a mild heart attack. -[3439.16 --> 3440.12] Restore her strength. -[3440.64 --> 3443.26] Thank you, Father, for everything you have already provided. -[3445.24 --> 3449.48] Father, we pray for the Murad family and the Iraqi Christian community in Surrey, -[3449.80 --> 3452.82] who lost their place of worship due to a fire this past week. -[3452.82 --> 3457.86] Give them everything they need to move forward from this experience. -[3459.38 --> 3464.04] We ask for a stop to the burning of places of worship that is happening all over Canada. -[3465.12 --> 3468.54] We ask you, Lord, to put an end to all the forest fires as well. -[3469.66 --> 3473.80] May we get a reprieve of all this dry weather and get some rain to help. -[3474.48 --> 3476.82] Give the firefighters all the support they need. -[3476.82 --> 3481.64] We pray for all who have lost homes, businesses, and lives. -[3482.90 --> 3484.94] Lord, care and restore them. -[3486.44 --> 3491.12] Also give us the desire and the means to support them in any way we can. -[3492.68 --> 3497.66] Be with our farming communities who so desperately need rain for their crops and livestock. -[3498.42 --> 3499.22] Give what is needed. -[3501.46 --> 3505.52] Lord, we pray for everyone who is still dealing with the COVID situation. -[3505.52 --> 3512.98] Whether it is job loss, shut-ins, stress, anxiety, inability to see family or travel. -[3514.98 --> 3518.38] Lord, we ask for an end to all these situations. -[3520.20 --> 3523.32] There are those whose names we have not mentioned here today, -[3523.66 --> 3527.48] but we know they are having struggles in life, -[3528.04 --> 3529.94] which we bring before you. -[3529.94 --> 3533.74] Father, you know their pain and problems. -[3534.60 --> 3538.98] Grant healing, strength, and support for these children of yours as well. -[3545.04 --> 3547.70] Father, there is also a lot to be thankful for. -[3549.18 --> 3552.18] We see your many blessings all around us. -[3552.18 --> 3557.50] There are healthy children being born, youth professing their faith. -[3558.36 --> 3559.26] Marriage is happening. -[3561.32 --> 3563.60] Lord, we pray for Dave and Sheila Skipper, -[3564.64 --> 3567.32] who are blessed with a healthy baby boy. -[3569.08 --> 3573.90] Grant Sheila and Dave, everything they need as parents to raise their son, Dawson. -[3573.90 --> 3579.52] Lord, we think of all the seniors here in our midst. -[3580.58 --> 3585.04] We are thankful for their gifts that they are still using in this community -[3585.04 --> 3591.30] with joy, happiness, enthusiasm to support and care for each other. -[3591.30 --> 3596.72] We know there are limitations in their lives, -[3597.40 --> 3601.64] but they do not let it stop them from doing their part. -[3602.76 --> 3604.96] Be near to them with their struggles in life -[3604.96 --> 3608.20] and give them freedom for these things. -[3610.28 --> 3613.92] Lord, bless all the care providers for our seniors as well. -[3614.96 --> 3617.02] Support their abilities and gifts. -[3617.02 --> 3622.58] We also pray, Father, for all the volunteers, staff members, -[3623.18 --> 3626.36] all those who work behind the scenes here at Emmanuel. -[3627.44 --> 3629.94] Bless their efforts and walk with them. -[3631.78 --> 3634.16] We thank you that you were able to share, -[3634.52 --> 3637.10] we thank you that we are able to share and witness -[3637.10 --> 3641.76] the profession of faith of Hadassah, Noah, and Jared this morning. -[3643.76 --> 3645.14] Be with these youth, Lord. -[3645.14 --> 3648.92] Give each one of them a strong commitment to walk the life -[3648.92 --> 3651.10] in the understanding of you -[3651.10 --> 3654.28] and reflect it for the rest of their earthly lives. -[3656.76 --> 3658.58] Bless the offerings of today, Lord. -[3659.60 --> 3660.90] Help with night shift ministry. -[3661.84 --> 3663.86] Bless the volunteers who do this great work -[3663.86 --> 3665.52] of looking after those on the street. -[3666.62 --> 3668.28] Again, bless this ministry. -[3669.88 --> 3672.14] We also pray for the continuing support -[3672.14 --> 3673.80] for the operations of this church. -[3673.80 --> 3679.42] Let each member here recognize their responsibility in this -[3679.42 --> 3681.36] and support it accordingly. -[3682.76 --> 3685.38] We ask for a blessing for the preaching of your word -[3685.38 --> 3686.92] as we wrestle with the question, -[3687.62 --> 3688.34] what is truth? -[3689.48 --> 3691.68] Let us get a clear understanding of this question -[3691.68 --> 3694.08] and walk with it in our lives. -[3695.20 --> 3697.94] We close with these words from Psalm 107. -[3697.94 --> 3701.66] Give thanks to the Lord always, for he is good -[3701.66 --> 3703.56] and his love is forever. -[3703.56 --> 3704.60] Amen. -[3704.60 --> 3729.34] If you have a Bible in your hands or handy -[3729.34 --> 3731.78] or on a device of the sort, -[3731.78 --> 3735.40] we're going to read from two places this morning. -[3735.56 --> 3737.46] And so we're going to read from John 4. -[3738.66 --> 3740.82] If you want to find that. -[3741.00 --> 3743.90] And then we're also going to read from John 8. -[3744.46 --> 3746.74] And so that's obviously just a couple chapters over. -[3746.98 --> 3747.70] You can grab that. -[3748.78 --> 3751.92] I'm going to read both of those texts before we jump in. -[3751.92 --> 3755.18] So starting in John 4, I'm going to read beginning at verse 19 -[3755.18 --> 3758.54] and then carry it through to 26. -[3760.60 --> 3764.74] Jesus has entered into the region of Samaria -[3764.74 --> 3769.14] and he, walking with his disciples, comes upon a well. -[3769.30 --> 3770.14] It is midday. -[3770.28 --> 3770.96] It is noon. -[3771.52 --> 3773.34] The sun is hot overhead -[3773.34 --> 3776.00] and there is a woman there gathering water. -[3776.20 --> 3778.12] And Jesus begins this really beautiful -[3778.12 --> 3780.54] and profound exchange with her. -[3780.92 --> 3783.18] We jump into the middle of that exchange. -[3784.58 --> 3787.12] Sir, talking to Jesus, the woman said, -[3787.94 --> 3790.16] I can see that you are a prophet. -[3791.20 --> 3793.68] Our ancestors worshipped on this mountain, -[3793.88 --> 3796.56] but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship -[3796.56 --> 3797.92] is in Jerusalem. -[3799.08 --> 3800.96] Woman, Jesus replied, -[3800.96 --> 3804.82] Believe me, a time is coming -[3804.82 --> 3806.68] when you will worship the Father -[3806.68 --> 3809.26] neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. -[3810.40 --> 3812.84] You Samaritans worship what you do not know. -[3813.34 --> 3815.18] We worship what we do know, -[3815.42 --> 3817.24] for salvation is from the Jews. -[3818.22 --> 3821.08] Yet a time is coming and has now come -[3821.08 --> 3823.88] when true worshippers will worship the Father -[3823.88 --> 3826.62] in the spirit and in truth. -[3827.52 --> 3830.50] For they are the kind of worshippers the Father seeks. -[3830.96 --> 3833.34] God is spirit -[3833.34 --> 3836.12] and his worshippers must worship -[3836.12 --> 3839.08] in the spirit and in truth. -[3840.52 --> 3841.78] The woman said, -[3842.88 --> 3846.02] I know that Messiah, called Christ, is coming. -[3846.70 --> 3849.72] And when he comes, he will explain everything to us. -[3850.76 --> 3852.08] Then Jesus declared, -[3852.76 --> 3855.86] I, the one speaking to you, am he. -[3855.86 --> 3860.74] Then if you jump over to John 8. -[3863.18 --> 3866.24] John 8, we'll start at verse 31 -[3866.24 --> 3873.12] and read through a little longer this time to 47. -[3873.12 --> 3877.82] So Jesus is speaking to the crowds -[3877.82 --> 3879.14] and assembled among the crowds -[3879.14 --> 3882.94] are leaders, teachers, Pharisees of the law. -[3882.94 --> 3887.38] To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, -[3888.16 --> 3892.32] If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. -[3893.32 --> 3894.56] And then you will know the truth, -[3894.82 --> 3897.36] and the truth will set you free. -[3898.82 --> 3899.86] They answered him, -[3899.86 --> 3902.52] We are Abraham's descendants -[3902.52 --> 3904.62] and have never been slaves of anyone. -[3905.02 --> 3907.60] How can you say that we shall be set free? -[3909.08 --> 3910.08] Jesus replied, -[3910.24 --> 3912.52] Very truly, I tell you, -[3913.06 --> 3915.90] everyone who sins is a slave to sin. -[3916.80 --> 3919.32] Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, -[3919.48 --> 3921.96] but a son belongs to it forever. -[3922.72 --> 3924.68] So if the son sets you free, -[3924.94 --> 3926.40] you will be free indeed. -[3926.40 --> 3929.96] I know that you are Abraham's descendants, -[3930.24 --> 3932.26] yet you are looking for a way to kill me -[3932.26 --> 3934.52] because you have no room for my word. -[3935.40 --> 3937.40] I am telling you what I have seen -[3937.40 --> 3938.36] in the Father's presence, -[3938.56 --> 3940.66] and you are doing what you have heard -[3940.66 --> 3941.64] from your father. -[3942.78 --> 3945.08] Abraham is our father, they answered. -[3946.00 --> 3948.92] If you were Abraham's children, said Jesus, -[3949.16 --> 3951.54] then you would do what Abraham did. -[3951.94 --> 3955.06] As it is, you are looking for a way to kill me, -[3955.06 --> 3957.24] a man who has told you the truth -[3957.24 --> 3958.44] that I heard from God. -[3958.90 --> 3960.92] Abraham did not do such things. -[3961.18 --> 3963.94] You are doing the works of your own father. -[3964.94 --> 3966.90] We are not illegitimate children, -[3967.04 --> 3967.84] they protested. -[3968.06 --> 3970.60] The only father we have is God himself. -[3972.96 --> 3973.96] Then Jesus said, -[3975.62 --> 3978.00] If God were your father, -[3978.72 --> 3980.86] you would love me, -[3981.42 --> 3984.12] for I have come from God. -[3984.12 --> 3987.88] I have not come on my own. -[3988.44 --> 3989.66] God sent me. -[3990.40 --> 3992.26] Which is why my language, -[3992.66 --> 3994.78] why is my language not clear to you? -[3995.08 --> 3997.48] Because you are unable to hear what I say. -[3997.84 --> 4000.40] You belong to your father, the devil, -[4000.96 --> 4003.66] and you want to carry out your father's desires. -[4004.78 --> 4006.78] He was a murderer from the beginning, -[4006.94 --> 4008.18] not holding to the truth. -[4008.30 --> 4010.36] There is no truth in him. -[4010.58 --> 4013.12] When he lies, he speaks his native language, -[4013.12 --> 4015.98] for he is a liar and the father of lies. -[4016.66 --> 4019.54] Yet, because I tell the truth, -[4019.74 --> 4021.02] you do not believe me. -[4021.66 --> 4024.08] Can any of you prove me guilty of sin? -[4024.64 --> 4026.04] If I am telling the truth, -[4026.14 --> 4027.30] why don't you believe me? -[4028.14 --> 4029.70] Whoever belongs to God, -[4029.84 --> 4031.14] hears what God says. -[4031.50 --> 4033.40] The reason you do not hear -[4033.40 --> 4037.26] is that you do not belong to God. -[4037.26 --> 4039.24] This is the word of the Lord. -[4045.42 --> 4051.18] Part of the purpose of our series this summer, -[4051.42 --> 4052.24] Ask Anything, -[4053.00 --> 4058.66] is to show that asking hard questions is good. -[4058.66 --> 4062.38] Another purpose in this series -[4062.38 --> 4065.28] is to also model for you -[4065.28 --> 4068.30] how to answer those kinds of questions. -[4068.76 --> 4069.12] And hopefully, -[4069.28 --> 4071.66] so that you can take the model or the method -[4071.66 --> 4073.66] and bring it home. -[4074.64 --> 4076.10] And so to answer the question -[4076.10 --> 4078.86] that was submitted to us for today, -[4079.08 --> 4080.96] I'm going to do two things. -[4081.04 --> 4082.42] And it's a little bit different. -[4083.04 --> 4085.12] And so I'm going to ask for your patience -[4085.12 --> 4087.44] and understanding as we go into it. -[4087.44 --> 4088.08] So first, -[4088.20 --> 4089.78] I am going to answer the question, -[4090.66 --> 4092.26] but I'm going to do that -[4092.26 --> 4094.22] by teaching you -[4094.22 --> 4097.86] the way that I do Bible studies. -[4099.00 --> 4099.12] All right, -[4099.14 --> 4100.28] so not just are you going to get -[4100.28 --> 4101.28] a particular answer -[4101.28 --> 4103.18] to this particular question, -[4103.18 --> 4105.26] but by zooming out just a little bit, -[4105.38 --> 4107.20] we're going to talk about method. -[4108.36 --> 4109.84] And so I'll show you the way -[4109.84 --> 4111.60] to find answers -[4111.60 --> 4114.54] to similar kinds of questions. -[4114.78 --> 4115.76] And maybe then it's something -[4115.76 --> 4116.46] that you can apply -[4116.46 --> 4117.68] as you lead a Bible study -[4117.68 --> 4118.86] in your home -[4118.86 --> 4119.82] or with your care group -[4119.82 --> 4122.84] or just in your own devotional life. -[4124.00 --> 4125.80] And so using the answer -[4125.80 --> 4127.30] to our question this morning, -[4127.30 --> 4128.72] I will try to show you -[4128.72 --> 4130.72] how to do the same for yourselves. -[4131.48 --> 4132.68] Because the truth is, -[4132.94 --> 4134.56] I know that a bunch of us -[4134.56 --> 4136.02] struggle regularly -[4136.02 --> 4138.14] with how to read the Bible well -[4138.14 --> 4140.70] and how to understand the Bible -[4140.70 --> 4142.32] for what the Bible is saying. -[4143.20 --> 4143.58] Right? -[4143.58 --> 4144.18] And you get what I mean -[4144.18 --> 4145.24] when I make that distinction? -[4145.40 --> 4147.60] Because it's really easy -[4147.60 --> 4149.38] for us to sort of read -[4149.38 --> 4151.56] our own feelings or ideas -[4151.56 --> 4152.98] into a text of the Bible -[4152.98 --> 4154.26] or a story in the Bible -[4154.26 --> 4157.08] and not hear what the Bible -[4157.08 --> 4157.94] is actually saying. -[4158.30 --> 4159.20] And let me give you an example. -[4159.34 --> 4159.92] Have you ever been -[4159.92 --> 4160.72] in a Bible study -[4160.72 --> 4162.66] or part of a group of people -[4162.66 --> 4164.42] looking at a Bible text -[4164.42 --> 4165.76] and someone says, -[4165.88 --> 4167.16] well, I feel like it means this. -[4167.62 --> 4168.46] And then someone says, -[4168.52 --> 4169.78] well, I feel like it means this. -[4169.82 --> 4170.88] And then a third person says, -[4170.92 --> 4172.20] well, I feel like it means this. -[4172.20 --> 4173.46] And then with the three people -[4173.46 --> 4174.30] in your Bible study, -[4174.48 --> 4175.26] half an hour later, -[4175.26 --> 4176.52] you've got five different opinions -[4176.52 --> 4177.84] about what it feels like it means -[4177.84 --> 4179.30] and nobody goes home satisfied. -[4180.30 --> 4181.30] Because we're just not sure. -[4185.14 --> 4188.48] By the end of your Bible study, -[4188.92 --> 4190.88] with the tips and tools -[4190.88 --> 4192.66] of the method that I use -[4192.66 --> 4193.46] and that I'm going to share it -[4193.46 --> 4193.98] with you today, -[4194.32 --> 4196.50] I hope you will be able to leave -[4196.50 --> 4198.58] saying, you know, -[4198.62 --> 4199.68] we really believe -[4199.68 --> 4201.20] that it means this -[4201.20 --> 4202.04] for this reason -[4202.04 --> 4202.64] and this reason -[4202.64 --> 4203.32] and this reason. -[4203.46 --> 4204.86] And so we're going to go -[4204.86 --> 4205.90] and do this -[4205.90 --> 4206.90] or that -[4206.90 --> 4207.90] or the other thing. -[4209.90 --> 4211.48] And so in that method, -[4212.00 --> 4213.48] the first step -[4213.48 --> 4216.02] when I'm trying to figure out -[4216.02 --> 4217.54] a text like this -[4217.54 --> 4218.88] is what I call -[4218.88 --> 4220.20] asking the question -[4220.20 --> 4222.20] or querying the text. -[4222.56 --> 4223.16] And I do this -[4223.16 --> 4224.38] every time I sit down -[4224.38 --> 4226.06] to prepare a sermon -[4226.06 --> 4227.32] or teach a Bible study -[4227.32 --> 4228.26] or the like. -[4228.36 --> 4229.64] I read through the text -[4229.64 --> 4231.22] and I query it. -[4231.34 --> 4232.44] I ask questions. -[4232.58 --> 4233.88] I step into the text -[4233.88 --> 4234.84] and I write down -[4234.84 --> 4235.80] any questions -[4235.80 --> 4237.22] that come to mind. -[4238.06 --> 4238.18] Right? -[4238.22 --> 4238.64] And so maybe, -[4238.88 --> 4239.34] for instance, -[4239.48 --> 4241.26] it's the place names -[4241.26 --> 4242.22] of certain cities -[4242.22 --> 4243.02] or towns -[4243.02 --> 4243.92] in the story -[4243.92 --> 4244.50] that you're reading -[4244.50 --> 4245.00] and you think, -[4245.10 --> 4246.08] oh, I want to get a map -[4246.08 --> 4246.96] and look at -[4246.96 --> 4248.10] just how far is it -[4248.10 --> 4249.66] that Jesus had to walk -[4249.66 --> 4250.54] with his disciples -[4250.54 --> 4251.36] as you're trying -[4251.36 --> 4252.84] to understand a text. -[4252.92 --> 4253.88] Maybe your question -[4253.88 --> 4255.50] is about the last time -[4255.50 --> 4257.24] someone asked Jesus a question -[4257.24 --> 4258.30] and how did he answer -[4258.30 --> 4259.40] in that situation -[4259.40 --> 4260.48] and what's different -[4260.48 --> 4262.24] about that sort of situation. -[4263.60 --> 4265.02] Maybe you're stuck -[4265.02 --> 4266.74] on a particular word -[4266.74 --> 4267.56] or phrase -[4267.56 --> 4268.40] that is repeated -[4268.40 --> 4269.48] over and over, -[4269.86 --> 4270.72] especially as you're reading -[4270.72 --> 4271.62] something like the Psalms -[4271.62 --> 4272.24] or the prophets -[4272.24 --> 4273.42] and you're wondering, -[4273.64 --> 4274.52] what is this phrase -[4274.52 --> 4275.16] really about? -[4275.26 --> 4275.80] Write it down. -[4277.12 --> 4277.26] Right? -[4277.28 --> 4278.88] Maybe you're reading the text -[4278.88 --> 4279.74] and you're curious -[4279.74 --> 4281.54] about the flood cycles -[4281.54 --> 4282.86] of the Jordan River -[4282.86 --> 4283.80] and you wonder, -[4283.96 --> 4285.00] how might that affect -[4285.00 --> 4286.00] the story -[4286.00 --> 4286.92] of the people -[4286.92 --> 4288.04] crossing the Jordan -[4288.04 --> 4288.84] at Jericho -[4288.84 --> 4289.64] before they entered -[4289.64 --> 4290.34] the promised land -[4290.34 --> 4291.14] for the first time -[4291.14 --> 4291.92] and so you've got to -[4291.92 --> 4292.92] do a little bit of research -[4292.92 --> 4294.44] but write it down. -[4295.82 --> 4295.98] Right? -[4296.02 --> 4297.08] Maybe you're reading Exodus -[4297.08 --> 4298.12] and you wonder, -[4298.40 --> 4299.34] what's so special -[4299.34 --> 4301.58] about Bezael -[4301.58 --> 4302.64] and Aholiab? -[4304.44 --> 4305.96] Whatever your question is, -[4306.48 --> 4307.08] write it down. -[4307.88 --> 4308.46] Ask it. -[4308.88 --> 4309.86] Find what's interesting -[4309.86 --> 4311.00] for you in that moment. -[4311.72 --> 4313.00] Even the most inane questions -[4313.00 --> 4315.12] are good at this point -[4315.12 --> 4315.96] just to write down -[4315.96 --> 4317.34] as you're engaging in them -[4317.34 --> 4319.36] and then begin to work through -[4319.36 --> 4321.20] your list of questions. -[4323.16 --> 4323.52] And so, -[4324.04 --> 4326.18] in our text, -[4326.52 --> 4327.90] someone was reading -[4327.90 --> 4328.82] their Bible at home -[4328.82 --> 4330.10] and they had a question. -[4331.44 --> 4332.40] When we ask a question -[4332.40 --> 4333.60] of our text -[4333.60 --> 4335.24] and the two that we read, -[4336.08 --> 4337.58] Jesus in John 4 -[4337.58 --> 4339.00] says to the Samaritan woman, -[4339.00 --> 4340.08] God is spirit -[4340.08 --> 4341.08] and his worshipers -[4341.08 --> 4342.46] must worship in the spirit -[4342.46 --> 4344.30] and in truth. -[4345.24 --> 4345.74] And the question -[4345.74 --> 4346.48] that we were asked -[4346.48 --> 4347.82] is how does this idea -[4347.82 --> 4349.08] of truth relate -[4349.08 --> 4350.50] to John 8 -[4350.50 --> 4352.26] in 31 to 47 -[4352.26 --> 4353.26] where Jesus speaks -[4353.26 --> 4354.56] of knowing the truth -[4354.56 --> 4355.34] and the truth -[4355.34 --> 4356.34] will set you free. -[4356.74 --> 4357.34] And then he makes -[4357.34 --> 4358.26] a contrast between -[4358.26 --> 4360.04] the truth that he speaks -[4360.04 --> 4361.06] and the lies -[4361.06 --> 4362.78] that the devil speaks. -[4363.10 --> 4364.30] What is truth -[4364.30 --> 4366.16] in those places? -[4366.16 --> 4368.06] That's the question. -[4368.64 --> 4368.78] Right? -[4368.84 --> 4370.58] We've queried the text -[4370.58 --> 4371.70] and that has set -[4371.70 --> 4372.32] a direction -[4372.32 --> 4373.88] for our understanding. -[4374.76 --> 4376.34] I regularly tell people -[4376.34 --> 4377.04] when you are reading -[4377.04 --> 4377.58] the Bible, -[4378.34 --> 4379.24] do it with a pen -[4379.24 --> 4380.44] and a pencil. -[4381.22 --> 4382.38] Write down your questions -[4382.38 --> 4383.30] or the ideas -[4383.30 --> 4384.28] that jump out to you. -[4384.40 --> 4385.80] Ask questions. -[4386.26 --> 4387.44] Query the text. -[4387.76 --> 4388.30] And then -[4388.30 --> 4389.84] we move to step two. -[4391.34 --> 4391.48] Right? -[4391.56 --> 4392.22] So step one -[4392.22 --> 4393.56] is query the text. -[4394.00 --> 4394.88] In step two, -[4394.88 --> 4396.84] you ask your questions. -[4397.06 --> 4398.52] You start answering them. -[4398.88 --> 4399.32] That seems like -[4399.32 --> 4400.44] a pretty obvious next step. -[4401.18 --> 4401.36] Right? -[4401.46 --> 4402.06] Here we are -[4402.06 --> 4403.84] mining the text -[4403.84 --> 4405.06] and exploring -[4405.06 --> 4406.08] the context. -[4407.46 --> 4407.80] And so -[4407.80 --> 4408.68] does a verse -[4408.68 --> 4409.88] later on -[4409.88 --> 4410.78] in what you've read -[4410.78 --> 4411.60] answer the question -[4411.60 --> 4412.00] you have? -[4413.08 --> 4413.24] Right? -[4413.28 --> 4414.22] Does a story -[4414.22 --> 4415.30] later on -[4415.30 --> 4416.46] answer what was -[4416.46 --> 4417.26] interesting to you -[4417.26 --> 4418.26] as you read the first one? -[4418.58 --> 4419.82] Does the same issue -[4419.82 --> 4421.06] come up somewhere else -[4421.06 --> 4422.02] in the Bible? -[4423.34 --> 4424.66] Answer questions -[4424.66 --> 4425.88] first by mining -[4425.88 --> 4426.54] the text -[4426.54 --> 4427.10] that is digging -[4427.10 --> 4428.08] deep into the -[4428.08 --> 4429.00] particular text -[4429.00 --> 4429.84] and exploring -[4429.84 --> 4431.20] the context. -[4432.52 --> 4433.22] Now when I talk -[4433.22 --> 4433.90] about exploring -[4433.90 --> 4434.42] the context -[4434.42 --> 4434.92] I do -[4434.92 --> 4436.26] I mean two things. -[4437.26 --> 4437.40] Right? -[4437.44 --> 4438.02] What is the -[4438.02 --> 4438.94] relationship -[4438.94 --> 4440.20] of this verse -[4440.20 --> 4441.02] or chapter -[4441.02 --> 4441.70] or book -[4441.70 --> 4443.50] that I'm reading -[4443.50 --> 4445.06] to the whole? -[4445.30 --> 4445.46] Right? -[4445.56 --> 4446.18] To the whole -[4446.18 --> 4446.78] of the book -[4446.78 --> 4447.34] that it's in -[4447.34 --> 4447.94] or to the rest -[4447.94 --> 4448.48] of the chapter -[4448.48 --> 4449.60] or to the whole -[4449.60 --> 4450.34] of the New Testament -[4450.34 --> 4451.06] or the Old Testament -[4451.06 --> 4451.88] or to the whole Bible? -[4451.88 --> 4454.64] Also -[4454.64 --> 4455.64] when we are -[4455.64 --> 4457.60] exploring the context -[4457.60 --> 4458.18] I mean -[4458.18 --> 4458.86] what is the -[4458.86 --> 4460.38] historical context -[4460.38 --> 4461.30] into which -[4461.30 --> 4462.28] this was written -[4462.28 --> 4463.02] or whatever -[4463.02 --> 4464.72] this is addressing? -[4465.10 --> 4465.90] Because it can be -[4465.90 --> 4466.60] really easy -[4466.60 --> 4467.42] for us to forget -[4467.42 --> 4468.00] that the Bible -[4468.00 --> 4468.42] was written -[4468.42 --> 4468.90] to a people -[4468.90 --> 4469.82] of a different culture -[4469.82 --> 4470.70] at a completely -[4470.70 --> 4471.34] different time -[4471.34 --> 4472.26] in history. -[4472.78 --> 4473.06] And in fact -[4473.06 --> 4473.64] one of the -[4473.64 --> 4474.82] beautiful aspects -[4474.82 --> 4475.78] of Christianity -[4475.78 --> 4476.82] is that it is -[4476.82 --> 4478.66] historically situated. -[4478.94 --> 4479.00] Right? -[4479.00 --> 4480.56] The Bible records -[4480.56 --> 4482.34] events that actually -[4482.34 --> 4483.62] happened in the past. -[4484.84 --> 4486.24] But that also means -[4486.24 --> 4487.48] we should understand -[4487.48 --> 4488.12] something about -[4488.12 --> 4489.80] the time and place -[4489.80 --> 4490.76] of the past -[4490.76 --> 4492.04] in order to make sure -[4492.04 --> 4492.58] that we are -[4492.58 --> 4493.68] reading the text -[4493.68 --> 4494.46] for what the text -[4494.46 --> 4495.80] means to say. -[4496.56 --> 4497.08] And so here -[4497.08 --> 4497.82] you might need -[4497.82 --> 4498.78] some good resources. -[4499.30 --> 4499.40] Right? -[4499.46 --> 4500.24] Some good books -[4500.24 --> 4501.58] or some trusted websites -[4501.58 --> 4502.90] or commentaries. -[4504.44 --> 4505.68] Now let's practice that. -[4506.32 --> 4507.40] For our question -[4507.40 --> 4508.80] the way that we can -[4508.80 --> 4509.76] mine the text -[4509.76 --> 4511.24] and explore the context -[4511.24 --> 4513.18] is to look at how -[4513.18 --> 4514.94] John uses the word -[4514.94 --> 4516.48] truth throughout -[4516.48 --> 4517.24] his gospel. -[4518.48 --> 4519.26] Now here a good -[4519.26 --> 4520.22] Bible concordance -[4520.22 --> 4520.90] will help you -[4520.90 --> 4522.04] or an online Bible -[4522.04 --> 4522.96] or a Bible app. -[4523.38 --> 4524.60] I use Bible Gateway -[4524.60 --> 4525.54] all the time. -[4525.54 --> 4526.22] On my phone -[4526.22 --> 4527.04] I have the NIV -[4527.04 --> 4528.00] Study Bible app -[4528.00 --> 4528.70] from Zondervan -[4528.70 --> 4529.52] and the ESV -[4529.52 --> 4530.54] Gospel Transformation -[4530.54 --> 4531.18] Study Bible -[4531.18 --> 4532.46] from Crossway. -[4532.58 --> 4533.36] Both are searchable. -[4533.48 --> 4534.28] Both are really good. -[4534.80 --> 4535.56] If you're feeling -[4535.56 --> 4536.66] particularly keen -[4536.66 --> 4537.36] and you want to search -[4537.36 --> 4538.26] the original Hebrew -[4538.26 --> 4538.66] and Greek -[4538.66 --> 4539.56] I can also give you -[4539.56 --> 4540.66] websites to do that -[4540.66 --> 4541.16] and show you -[4541.16 --> 4541.78] how to use it. -[4542.48 --> 4543.50] In our case -[4543.50 --> 4544.08] this morning -[4544.08 --> 4545.16] we're looking at -[4545.16 --> 4545.94] the word truth -[4545.94 --> 4547.26] and so we mine -[4547.26 --> 4547.96] the text -[4547.96 --> 4550.08] for the word truth. -[4550.22 --> 4551.04] How does John -[4551.04 --> 4552.22] use the word truth -[4552.22 --> 4553.16] or aletheia -[4553.16 --> 4553.90] in Greek -[4553.90 --> 4555.10] in his gospel? -[4555.98 --> 4556.30] And so I'm going -[4556.30 --> 4556.96] to do a real quick -[4556.96 --> 4558.24] survey with you -[4558.24 --> 4558.74] of a couple -[4558.74 --> 4559.90] major places -[4559.90 --> 4560.52] they will be on -[4560.52 --> 4561.42] the screen overhead -[4561.42 --> 4562.62] so you can write -[4562.62 --> 4563.02] them down -[4563.02 --> 4564.06] and check it later. -[4564.06 --> 4566.08] The first use -[4566.08 --> 4567.46] of the word truth -[4567.46 --> 4569.68] is in John 1.14 -[4569.68 --> 4572.10] The word became flesh -[4572.10 --> 4573.28] and made his dwelling -[4573.28 --> 4574.60] among us. -[4575.26 --> 4576.38] We have seen his glory -[4576.38 --> 4577.52] the glory of the one -[4577.52 --> 4578.42] and only son -[4578.42 --> 4579.84] who came from the father -[4579.84 --> 4580.96] full of grace -[4580.96 --> 4583.14] and truth. -[4584.94 --> 4585.56] So here -[4585.56 --> 4586.26] truth -[4586.26 --> 4587.68] seems to be -[4587.68 --> 4588.46] an attribute -[4588.46 --> 4589.92] a description -[4589.92 --> 4590.92] of Jesus' -[4591.76 --> 4592.12] character. -[4592.12 --> 4593.80] And then we work -[4593.80 --> 4594.18] our way through -[4594.18 --> 4595.06] the gospel of John -[4595.06 --> 4596.26] you get John 4 -[4596.26 --> 4597.34] and John 8 -[4597.34 --> 4599.28] where we read -[4599.28 --> 4600.18] and found that word -[4600.18 --> 4602.18] then you get to one -[4602.18 --> 4602.90] that many of you -[4602.90 --> 4603.60] might know -[4603.60 --> 4604.58] Jesus says -[4604.58 --> 4606.06] I am the way -[4606.06 --> 4607.36] the truth -[4607.36 --> 4608.46] and the life -[4608.46 --> 4609.24] no one comes -[4609.24 --> 4609.82] to the father -[4609.82 --> 4610.82] except through me -[4610.82 --> 4612.72] and then in the rest -[4612.72 --> 4613.48] of John 14 -[4613.48 --> 4614.22] and then through -[4614.22 --> 4615.00] John 16 -[4615.00 --> 4615.96] Jesus talks about -[4615.96 --> 4616.36] the coming -[4616.36 --> 4617.20] of the Holy Spirit -[4617.20 --> 4617.76] and he calls -[4617.76 --> 4618.48] the Holy Spirit -[4618.48 --> 4620.48] the spirit of truth -[4620.48 --> 4621.40] and he talks about -[4621.40 --> 4622.66] knowing the spirit -[4622.66 --> 4623.90] of truth -[4623.90 --> 4626.00] and then in John 17 -[4626.00 --> 4627.22] and importantly -[4627.22 --> 4628.26] I think for our -[4628.26 --> 4629.72] discussion this morning -[4629.72 --> 4630.84] Jesus prays -[4630.84 --> 4631.80] what we've come to call -[4631.80 --> 4632.94] the high priestly -[4632.94 --> 4633.86] prayer -[4633.86 --> 4634.44] and it's called -[4634.44 --> 4635.66] the high priestly prayer -[4635.66 --> 4636.58] because Jesus is -[4636.58 --> 4637.96] making intercession -[4637.96 --> 4638.80] he is praying -[4638.80 --> 4639.56] on behalf -[4639.56 --> 4640.34] of those people -[4640.34 --> 4641.44] who would come -[4641.44 --> 4642.52] to believe -[4642.52 --> 4643.16] in him -[4643.16 --> 4644.06] not just the people -[4644.06 --> 4644.36] then -[4644.36 --> 4645.30] not just his disciples -[4645.30 --> 4645.60] then -[4645.60 --> 4646.58] but also us -[4646.58 --> 4648.54] now as 21st century -[4648.54 --> 4649.82] believers in Jesus -[4649.82 --> 4651.10] Jesus prays for us -[4651.10 --> 4651.62] and he says -[4651.62 --> 4653.08] sanctify them -[4653.08 --> 4654.22] by your truth -[4654.22 --> 4656.18] your word -[4656.18 --> 4657.78] is truth -[4657.78 --> 4660.32] and then finally -[4660.32 --> 4661.90] in John 18 -[4661.90 --> 4663.58] Jesus is -[4663.58 --> 4665.02] standing before -[4665.02 --> 4665.56] Pilate -[4665.56 --> 4666.26] he has been -[4666.26 --> 4667.06] betrayed -[4667.06 --> 4668.90] and disowned -[4668.90 --> 4669.64] by Peter -[4669.64 --> 4670.26] and he's brought -[4670.26 --> 4671.52] before the Roman -[4671.52 --> 4672.00] governor -[4672.00 --> 4672.80] who the Jewish -[4672.80 --> 4673.60] religious leaders -[4673.60 --> 4674.20] need to get -[4674.20 --> 4675.00] approval from -[4675.00 --> 4675.74] before they can -[4675.74 --> 4676.30] carry out -[4676.30 --> 4677.26] the sentence of death -[4677.26 --> 4678.70] and Pilate asks -[4678.70 --> 4679.24] Jesus -[4679.24 --> 4680.30] are you the king -[4680.30 --> 4680.86] of the Jews -[4680.86 --> 4682.26] and Jesus says -[4682.26 --> 4683.00] and I'll paraphrase -[4683.00 --> 4683.28] he says -[4683.28 --> 4684.48] are you asking me -[4684.48 --> 4685.00] that question -[4685.00 --> 4685.72] or are others -[4685.72 --> 4686.28] putting words -[4686.28 --> 4686.88] in your mouth -[4686.88 --> 4688.28] Pilate says -[4688.28 --> 4689.24] I'm not a Jew -[4689.24 --> 4689.90] I don't know -[4689.90 --> 4690.96] who you are -[4690.96 --> 4691.72] or what this is -[4691.72 --> 4692.46] really about -[4692.46 --> 4693.80] so Jesus says -[4693.80 --> 4694.58] well my kingdom -[4694.58 --> 4696.12] is not of this world -[4696.12 --> 4696.76] it is from -[4696.76 --> 4698.00] another place -[4698.00 --> 4698.82] and Pilate hears -[4698.82 --> 4699.52] that word kingdom -[4699.52 --> 4699.86] and goes -[4699.86 --> 4700.94] ah so you are -[4700.94 --> 4701.38] a king -[4701.38 --> 4702.26] and then -[4702.26 --> 4703.56] Jesus looks -[4703.56 --> 4704.34] at Pilate -[4704.34 --> 4704.90] and I'll stop -[4704.90 --> 4705.58] paraphrasing -[4705.58 --> 4706.40] in John 18 -[4706.40 --> 4707.00] 37 -[4707.00 --> 4707.98] Jesus says -[4707.98 --> 4709.60] you say -[4709.60 --> 4710.40] that I am a king -[4710.40 --> 4711.62] in fact -[4711.62 --> 4712.54] the reason -[4712.54 --> 4713.28] I was born -[4713.28 --> 4714.04] and came into -[4714.04 --> 4714.54] the world -[4714.54 --> 4715.62] is to testify -[4715.62 --> 4716.88] to the truth -[4716.88 --> 4718.58] everyone on the -[4718.58 --> 4719.66] side of truth -[4719.66 --> 4720.42] listens -[4720.42 --> 4721.68] to me -[4721.68 --> 4724.08] Jesus says -[4724.08 --> 4724.58] the reason -[4724.58 --> 4725.46] he came into -[4725.46 --> 4726.02] the world -[4726.02 --> 4727.12] was to testify -[4727.12 --> 4728.00] to the truth -[4728.00 --> 4729.52] of his kingship -[4729.52 --> 4729.70] right -[4729.70 --> 4730.38] the truth -[4730.38 --> 4730.78] here -[4730.78 --> 4731.42] the word truth -[4731.42 --> 4731.70] here -[4731.70 --> 4732.92] is the gospel -[4732.92 --> 4733.58] of Jesus -[4733.58 --> 4734.24] as king -[4734.24 --> 4734.80] over all -[4734.80 --> 4735.22] the earth -[4735.22 --> 4735.98] and to be -[4735.98 --> 4736.78] on the side -[4736.78 --> 4737.76] of truth -[4737.76 --> 4738.44] is to be -[4738.44 --> 4739.38] part of -[4739.38 --> 4740.30] the kingdom -[4740.30 --> 4741.82] of Jesus -[4741.82 --> 4743.80] and then -[4743.80 --> 4744.22] Pilate -[4744.22 --> 4745.56] hearing -[4745.56 --> 4746.22] but not -[4746.22 --> 4747.26] comprehending -[4747.26 --> 4748.00] says -[4748.00 --> 4748.98] in verse -[4748.98 --> 4749.84] 38 -[4749.84 --> 4750.32] of chapter -[4750.32 --> 4750.76] 18 -[4750.76 --> 4751.36] what -[4751.36 --> 4752.48] is -[4752.48 --> 4753.58] truth -[4753.58 --> 4755.32] and that's -[4755.32 --> 4755.66] really the -[4755.66 --> 4756.04] question -[4756.04 --> 4758.00] what -[4758.00 --> 4758.56] is -[4758.56 --> 4759.38] truth -[4759.38 --> 4760.64] and so -[4760.64 --> 4761.30] does seeing -[4761.30 --> 4761.96] the way -[4761.96 --> 4762.60] that John -[4762.60 --> 4763.54] uses the word -[4763.54 --> 4764.38] truth -[4764.38 --> 4765.14] in other -[4765.14 --> 4765.62] places -[4765.62 --> 4766.32] help us -[4766.32 --> 4767.26] understand -[4767.26 --> 4768.50] how it is -[4768.50 --> 4769.32] being used -[4769.32 --> 4769.96] in chapter -[4769.96 --> 4770.42] 4 -[4770.42 --> 4771.44] and chapter -[4771.44 --> 4771.80] 8 -[4771.80 --> 4773.58] in those -[4773.58 --> 4774.34] other places -[4774.34 --> 4774.84] sort of -[4774.84 --> 4775.62] taken as a -[4775.62 --> 4776.00] whole -[4776.00 --> 4776.72] truth -[4776.72 --> 4777.30] is a -[4777.30 --> 4777.88] character -[4777.88 --> 4778.40] attribute -[4778.40 --> 4779.34] of Jesus -[4779.34 --> 4780.20] part of -[4780.20 --> 4781.12] the glory -[4781.12 --> 4781.58] that he -[4781.58 --> 4782.10] reveals -[4782.10 --> 4782.66] with grace -[4782.66 --> 4783.24] and truth -[4783.24 --> 4783.70] right -[4783.70 --> 4784.02] Jesus -[4784.02 --> 4784.74] is the -[4784.74 --> 4785.08] truth -[4785.08 --> 4785.64] in some -[4785.64 --> 4785.90] way -[4785.90 --> 4787.16] the word -[4787.16 --> 4788.04] is truth -[4788.04 --> 4788.64] in another -[4788.64 --> 4788.98] way -[4788.98 --> 4790.04] the spirit -[4790.04 --> 4790.92] leads people -[4790.92 --> 4791.68] into all -[4791.68 --> 4792.12] truth -[4792.12 --> 4793.12] truth -[4793.12 --> 4795.62] is the -[4795.62 --> 4795.98] gospel -[4795.98 --> 4796.28] of -[4796.28 --> 4796.60] Jesus -[4796.60 --> 4797.58] kingdom -[4797.58 --> 4799.62] truth -[4799.62 --> 4800.22] then -[4800.22 --> 4800.92] is the -[4800.92 --> 4801.78] reality -[4801.78 --> 4802.92] of his -[4802.92 --> 4803.34] coming -[4803.34 --> 4804.38] and the -[4804.38 --> 4805.02] impact -[4805.02 --> 4805.58] of his -[4805.58 --> 4806.06] coming -[4806.06 --> 4807.34] on reality -[4807.34 --> 4809.02] now I really -[4809.02 --> 4809.52] like that way -[4809.52 --> 4809.82] so that's -[4809.82 --> 4810.10] going to be -[4810.10 --> 4810.32] our -[4810.32 --> 4811.48] theme -[4811.48 --> 4812.70] here -[4812.70 --> 4814.08] truth -[4814.08 --> 4814.50] is the -[4814.50 --> 4815.04] reality -[4815.04 --> 4816.24] of Jesus -[4816.24 --> 4816.70] coming -[4816.70 --> 4817.36] and the -[4817.36 --> 4817.94] impact -[4817.94 --> 4818.54] of Jesus -[4818.54 --> 4819.10] coming -[4819.10 --> 4820.94] on reality -[4820.94 --> 4822.70] now -[4822.70 --> 4824.26] like many -[4824.26 --> 4824.66] of you -[4824.66 --> 4825.18] or at least -[4825.18 --> 4825.92] a small -[4825.92 --> 4826.26] handful -[4826.26 --> 4826.62] of you -[4826.62 --> 4827.52] I just -[4827.52 --> 4827.86] finished -[4827.86 --> 4828.26] watching -[4828.26 --> 4828.64] Loki -[4828.64 --> 4829.38] on Disney -[4829.38 --> 4829.74] plus -[4829.74 --> 4830.90] and that's -[4830.90 --> 4831.44] all about -[4831.44 --> 4831.88] bending -[4831.88 --> 4832.60] reality -[4832.60 --> 4833.52] and multiple -[4833.52 --> 4834.22] realities -[4834.22 --> 4834.96] and stacked -[4834.96 --> 4835.58] realities -[4835.58 --> 4836.56] and not -[4836.56 --> 4837.10] really being -[4837.10 --> 4837.48] able to -[4837.48 --> 4838.06] trust the -[4838.06 --> 4838.76] reality that -[4838.76 --> 4839.06] you see -[4839.06 --> 4839.38] in front -[4839.38 --> 4839.66] of you -[4839.66 --> 4840.60] so what -[4840.60 --> 4840.88] I really -[4840.88 --> 4841.40] like about -[4841.40 --> 4841.80] this way -[4841.80 --> 4843.14] of understanding -[4843.14 --> 4843.54] truth -[4843.54 --> 4844.10] and John's -[4844.10 --> 4844.66] use of -[4844.66 --> 4845.22] the word -[4845.22 --> 4846.02] is that -[4846.02 --> 4846.90] truth -[4846.90 --> 4848.60] becomes -[4848.60 --> 4849.68] seeing -[4849.68 --> 4850.34] Jesus -[4850.34 --> 4851.42] as our -[4851.42 --> 4852.10] anchor -[4852.10 --> 4853.04] for -[4853.04 --> 4854.14] understanding -[4854.14 --> 4855.48] reality -[4855.48 --> 4857.36] right Hebrews -[4857.36 --> 4858.32] 13 verse 8 -[4858.32 --> 4858.88] says Jesus -[4858.88 --> 4859.84] Christ is the -[4859.84 --> 4860.58] same yesterday -[4860.58 --> 4861.48] today -[4861.48 --> 4862.72] and forever -[4862.72 --> 4864.76] Colossians 1 -[4864.76 --> 4866.10] beautifully says -[4866.10 --> 4866.96] the son -[4866.96 --> 4868.12] Jesus is the -[4868.12 --> 4868.98] image of the -[4868.98 --> 4869.98] invisible God -[4869.98 --> 4870.68] the firstborn -[4870.68 --> 4871.64] over all creation -[4871.64 --> 4872.84] for in him -[4872.84 --> 4873.62] all things -[4873.62 --> 4874.34] were created -[4874.34 --> 4875.04] things in heaven -[4875.04 --> 4875.62] and on earth -[4875.62 --> 4876.32] visible and -[4876.32 --> 4876.70] invisible -[4876.70 --> 4877.70] whether thrones -[4877.70 --> 4878.22] or powers -[4878.22 --> 4878.70] or rulers -[4878.70 --> 4879.46] or authorities -[4879.46 --> 4880.16] all things -[4880.16 --> 4880.52] have been -[4880.52 --> 4881.02] created -[4881.02 --> 4881.90] through him -[4881.90 --> 4882.64] and for him -[4882.64 --> 4883.54] he is before -[4883.54 --> 4884.72] all things -[4884.72 --> 4885.28] and in him -[4885.28 --> 4885.88] all things -[4885.88 --> 4886.70] hold together -[4886.70 --> 4887.38] he is the -[4887.38 --> 4887.94] head of the -[4887.94 --> 4888.26] body -[4888.26 --> 4888.96] the church -[4888.96 --> 4889.46] he is the -[4889.46 --> 4889.84] beginning -[4889.84 --> 4890.44] and the -[4890.44 --> 4890.90] firstborn -[4890.90 --> 4891.36] from among -[4891.36 --> 4891.74] the dead -[4891.74 --> 4892.18] so that -[4892.18 --> 4893.04] in everything -[4893.04 --> 4894.20] he might -[4894.20 --> 4894.62] have -[4894.62 --> 4895.64] the supremacy -[4895.64 --> 4898.24] John 1 -[4898.24 --> 4899.66] we read -[4899.66 --> 4900.34] in the beginning -[4900.34 --> 4901.46] was the word -[4901.46 --> 4902.08] and the word -[4902.08 --> 4903.32] was with God -[4903.32 --> 4904.00] and the word -[4904.00 --> 4905.20] was God -[4905.20 --> 4905.78] he was with -[4905.78 --> 4906.36] God in the -[4906.36 --> 4906.68] beginning -[4906.68 --> 4907.26] and through -[4907.26 --> 4907.64] him -[4907.64 --> 4908.44] all things -[4908.44 --> 4909.08] were made -[4909.08 --> 4910.04] without him -[4910.04 --> 4910.82] nothing was -[4910.82 --> 4911.18] made -[4911.18 --> 4911.80] that has -[4911.80 --> 4912.14] been -[4912.14 --> 4912.92] made -[4912.92 --> 4914.62] this is a -[4914.62 --> 4915.76] great little -[4915.76 --> 4916.96] verse for us -[4916.96 --> 4917.70] because we see -[4917.70 --> 4919.78] Jesus as the word -[4919.78 --> 4921.30] is in the beginning -[4921.30 --> 4922.84] and John wants to -[4922.84 --> 4923.96] ground his teaching -[4923.96 --> 4925.16] of who Jesus is -[4925.16 --> 4926.50] in more than just -[4926.50 --> 4927.64] the first century -[4927.64 --> 4928.68] incarnation -[4928.68 --> 4929.06] right -[4929.06 --> 4930.42] John is deliberately -[4930.42 --> 4931.90] invoking the language -[4931.90 --> 4932.86] of creation -[4932.86 --> 4933.86] you remember -[4933.86 --> 4933.88] you remember -[4933.88 --> 4934.98] Genesis 1 -[4934.98 --> 4935.46] perhaps -[4935.46 --> 4935.72] right -[4935.72 --> 4936.52] in the beginning -[4936.52 --> 4937.16] God -[4937.16 --> 4939.70] in the beginning -[4939.70 --> 4940.52] was the word -[4940.52 --> 4942.10] the second person -[4942.10 --> 4943.20] of the trinity -[4943.20 --> 4943.80] right -[4943.80 --> 4944.34] the word -[4944.34 --> 4945.26] is the agent -[4945.26 --> 4946.00] of God -[4946.00 --> 4947.12] at creation -[4947.12 --> 4948.38] God speaks -[4948.38 --> 4949.80] let there be light -[4949.80 --> 4950.88] and it was so -[4950.88 --> 4952.40] that is his word -[4952.40 --> 4953.62] this is his -[4953.62 --> 4954.40] voice -[4954.40 --> 4955.40] the word -[4955.40 --> 4956.22] Jesus -[4956.22 --> 4957.66] defines -[4957.66 --> 4959.18] reality -[4959.18 --> 4961.42] that word -[4961.42 --> 4962.46] takes on flesh -[4962.46 --> 4963.30] in the person -[4963.30 --> 4963.74] of Jesus -[4963.74 --> 4964.58] and enters -[4964.58 --> 4965.28] into -[4965.28 --> 4966.22] our -[4966.22 --> 4967.46] reality -[4967.46 --> 4969.32] truth -[4969.32 --> 4970.42] is the reality -[4970.42 --> 4971.14] of Jesus -[4971.14 --> 4971.66] coming -[4971.66 --> 4972.62] and the impact -[4972.62 --> 4973.06] of Jesus -[4973.06 --> 4973.60] coming -[4973.60 --> 4974.86] on reality -[4974.86 --> 4977.04] and so remember -[4977.04 --> 4977.64] when we did that -[4977.64 --> 4978.82] little word study -[4978.82 --> 4979.10] right -[4979.10 --> 4980.06] Jesus prayed -[4980.06 --> 4980.92] in his high priestly -[4980.92 --> 4981.36] prayer -[4981.36 --> 4982.84] sanctify them -[4982.84 --> 4983.88] by your truth -[4983.88 --> 4985.66] your word -[4985.66 --> 4986.66] is -[4986.66 --> 4987.64] truth -[4987.64 --> 4989.60] God's word -[4989.60 --> 4990.60] is truth -[4990.60 --> 4991.14] and Jesus -[4991.14 --> 4992.14] is God's word -[4992.14 --> 4993.20] made flesh -[4993.20 --> 4993.82] God's word -[4993.82 --> 4994.50] is the truth -[4994.50 --> 4995.22] that creates -[4995.22 --> 4995.94] and defines -[4995.94 --> 4996.74] reality -[4996.74 --> 4997.82] and that truth -[4997.82 --> 4999.04] has come among us -[4999.04 --> 5000.30] to sanctify us -[5000.30 --> 5001.36] that's a word -[5001.36 --> 5001.78] in the Bible -[5001.78 --> 5002.06] that means -[5002.06 --> 5002.90] to make us -[5002.90 --> 5003.52] holy -[5003.52 --> 5004.56] to set us -[5004.56 --> 5005.18] apart -[5005.18 --> 5006.54] to change you -[5006.54 --> 5007.50] from lost -[5007.50 --> 5008.16] in darkness -[5008.16 --> 5009.26] to at home -[5009.26 --> 5010.18] in light -[5010.18 --> 5011.14] from a heart -[5011.14 --> 5011.76] of stone -[5011.76 --> 5012.60] to a heart -[5012.60 --> 5013.16] of flesh -[5013.16 --> 5014.24] to transform you -[5014.24 --> 5014.82] from enemies -[5014.82 --> 5015.34] of God -[5015.34 --> 5016.44] stuck in our sins -[5016.44 --> 5017.56] and our transgressions -[5017.56 --> 5018.98] to lavishly loved -[5018.98 --> 5020.16] children of the Father -[5020.16 --> 5021.30] heirs of God -[5021.30 --> 5022.12] and co-heirs -[5022.12 --> 5023.52] with Christ -[5023.52 --> 5025.54] the truth is -[5025.54 --> 5026.20] Jesus -[5026.20 --> 5027.04] has -[5027.04 --> 5027.92] come -[5027.92 --> 5029.12] the truth -[5029.12 --> 5029.70] is -[5029.70 --> 5030.66] Jesus coming -[5030.66 --> 5031.74] changes your -[5031.74 --> 5032.64] reality -[5032.64 --> 5033.80] and the truth is -[5033.80 --> 5035.02] Jesus will come -[5035.02 --> 5035.64] again -[5035.64 --> 5036.96] and all reality -[5036.96 --> 5038.28] will be changed -[5038.28 --> 5038.86] that -[5038.86 --> 5039.50] is -[5039.50 --> 5040.42] truth -[5040.42 --> 5043.66] and let me be -[5043.66 --> 5044.30] really -[5044.30 --> 5046.64] really clear -[5046.64 --> 5047.64] truth -[5047.64 --> 5048.94] this isn't -[5048.94 --> 5049.46] just my -[5049.46 --> 5049.92] truth -[5049.92 --> 5051.96] or Christian -[5051.96 --> 5052.50] truth -[5052.50 --> 5053.66] or relative -[5053.66 --> 5054.32] truth -[5054.32 --> 5055.22] this is -[5055.22 --> 5056.08] reality -[5056.08 --> 5057.12] truth -[5057.12 --> 5057.70] this isn't -[5057.70 --> 5057.94] just -[5057.94 --> 5058.66] Jared's -[5058.66 --> 5058.94] truth -[5058.94 --> 5059.20] or -[5059.20 --> 5060.00] Hadassah's -[5060.00 --> 5060.28] truth -[5060.28 --> 5061.00] or Noah's -[5061.00 --> 5061.34] truth -[5061.34 --> 5062.12] the truth -[5062.12 --> 5062.54] that they -[5062.54 --> 5063.48] profess today -[5063.48 --> 5064.34] is more -[5064.34 --> 5064.76] than that -[5064.76 --> 5065.40] this is a -[5065.40 --> 5066.32] belief in -[5066.32 --> 5066.90] the real -[5066.90 --> 5067.70] and a real -[5067.70 --> 5068.24] belief -[5068.24 --> 5069.66] if truth -[5069.66 --> 5070.20] is what -[5070.20 --> 5070.82] corresponds -[5070.82 --> 5071.86] to reality -[5071.86 --> 5072.60] then surely -[5072.60 --> 5073.32] the creator -[5073.32 --> 5074.34] of reality -[5074.34 --> 5075.30] is -[5075.30 --> 5076.32] truth -[5076.32 --> 5079.16] truth -[5079.16 --> 5079.58] is the -[5079.58 --> 5080.00] reality -[5080.00 --> 5080.54] of Jesus -[5080.54 --> 5080.96] coming -[5080.96 --> 5081.58] and the -[5081.58 --> 5081.92] impact -[5081.92 --> 5082.26] of Jesus -[5082.26 --> 5082.74] coming -[5082.74 --> 5084.10] on reality -[5084.10 --> 5086.82] and this -[5086.82 --> 5087.18] is actually -[5087.18 --> 5087.62] the third -[5087.62 --> 5088.08] step -[5088.08 --> 5089.42] in understanding -[5089.42 --> 5089.98] any Bible -[5089.98 --> 5090.42] text -[5090.42 --> 5092.44] Jesus changes -[5092.44 --> 5093.24] everything -[5093.24 --> 5094.26] and so -[5094.26 --> 5094.86] everything -[5094.86 --> 5096.00] is about -[5096.00 --> 5097.14] Jesus -[5097.14 --> 5099.04] in the Bible -[5099.04 --> 5100.44] everything -[5100.44 --> 5101.52] is about -[5101.52 --> 5102.36] Jesus -[5102.36 --> 5102.86] Jesus -[5102.86 --> 5103.46] is the -[5103.46 --> 5103.74] point -[5103.74 --> 5104.06] of it -[5104.06 --> 5104.34] all -[5104.34 --> 5104.74] and you -[5104.74 --> 5105.20] can't -[5105.20 --> 5105.64] truly -[5105.64 --> 5106.60] genuinely -[5106.60 --> 5107.38] understand -[5107.38 --> 5108.46] any text -[5108.46 --> 5109.36] unless you -[5109.36 --> 5110.08] understand it -[5110.08 --> 5110.80] in relation -[5110.80 --> 5112.32] to Jesus -[5112.32 --> 5113.08] either as -[5113.08 --> 5113.64] fulfillment -[5113.64 --> 5114.68] or contrast -[5114.68 --> 5115.12] type -[5115.12 --> 5115.86] anti-type -[5115.86 --> 5116.60] promise -[5116.60 --> 5117.56] foreshadow -[5117.56 --> 5118.04] right -[5118.04 --> 5118.98] in fact -[5118.98 --> 5119.50] Jesus -[5119.50 --> 5120.06] himself -[5120.06 --> 5120.80] tells us -[5120.80 --> 5121.22] this -[5121.22 --> 5121.72] right -[5121.72 --> 5122.30] in John -[5122.30 --> 5122.80] 5 -[5122.80 --> 5123.48] Jesus -[5123.48 --> 5123.94] says -[5123.94 --> 5124.22] to the -[5124.22 --> 5124.50] teachers -[5124.50 --> 5124.80] of the -[5124.80 --> 5125.02] law -[5125.02 --> 5125.86] and Pharisees -[5125.86 --> 5126.26] he says -[5126.26 --> 5127.34] you study -[5127.34 --> 5127.92] the scriptures -[5127.92 --> 5128.50] diligently -[5128.50 --> 5129.14] because you -[5129.14 --> 5129.54] think that -[5129.54 --> 5129.92] in them -[5129.92 --> 5130.32] you have -[5130.32 --> 5130.74] eternal -[5130.74 --> 5131.16] life -[5131.16 --> 5132.00] these -[5132.00 --> 5132.46] are the -[5132.46 --> 5132.80] very -[5132.80 --> 5133.32] scriptures -[5133.32 --> 5134.24] that testify -[5134.24 --> 5135.06] about -[5135.06 --> 5136.08] me -[5136.08 --> 5136.72] says -[5136.72 --> 5137.12] Jesus -[5137.12 --> 5137.96] right -[5137.96 --> 5138.26] he goes -[5138.26 --> 5138.68] on -[5138.68 --> 5139.30] if you -[5139.30 --> 5139.66] believed -[5139.66 --> 5140.12] Moses -[5140.12 --> 5140.72] you would -[5140.72 --> 5141.06] believe -[5141.06 --> 5141.52] me -[5141.52 --> 5142.30] for he -[5142.30 --> 5142.88] wrote -[5142.88 --> 5143.12] about -[5143.12 --> 5143.58] me -[5143.58 --> 5145.92] right -[5145.92 --> 5146.20] on the -[5146.20 --> 5146.82] road to -[5146.82 --> 5147.50] Emmaus -[5147.50 --> 5148.52] after the -[5148.52 --> 5148.98] resurrection -[5148.98 --> 5150.34] in Luke's -[5150.34 --> 5151.38] gospel account -[5151.38 --> 5153.28] Luke tells -[5153.28 --> 5153.86] us that -[5153.86 --> 5154.78] Jesus -[5154.78 --> 5155.80] beginning -[5155.80 --> 5156.56] with Moses -[5156.56 --> 5157.08] and all -[5157.08 --> 5157.66] the prophets -[5157.66 --> 5158.64] explained -[5158.64 --> 5159.22] to them -[5159.22 --> 5159.60] the two -[5159.60 --> 5159.96] disciples -[5159.96 --> 5160.24] on the -[5160.24 --> 5160.44] road -[5160.44 --> 5160.94] what was -[5160.94 --> 5161.22] said -[5161.22 --> 5161.88] in all -[5161.88 --> 5162.50] the scriptures -[5162.50 --> 5163.58] concerning -[5163.58 --> 5164.56] himself -[5164.56 --> 5166.18] right -[5166.18 --> 5166.58] here's the -[5166.58 --> 5166.92] thing -[5166.92 --> 5167.76] if you want -[5167.76 --> 5168.60] to actually -[5168.60 --> 5169.66] truly -[5169.66 --> 5170.46] fully -[5170.46 --> 5171.18] understand -[5171.18 --> 5171.62] a bible -[5171.62 --> 5171.94] text -[5171.94 --> 5172.70] you need -[5172.70 --> 5173.22] to take -[5173.22 --> 5173.56] it to -[5173.56 --> 5173.90] Jesus -[5173.90 --> 5174.28] or you -[5174.28 --> 5174.52] need to -[5174.52 --> 5174.90] let it -[5174.90 --> 5175.46] take you -[5175.46 --> 5176.46] to Jesus -[5176.46 --> 5178.26] right -[5178.26 --> 5178.88] start with -[5178.88 --> 5179.58] the text -[5179.58 --> 5180.28] and the -[5180.28 --> 5180.74] story -[5180.74 --> 5182.64] and get -[5182.64 --> 5182.90] to the -[5182.90 --> 5183.20] gospel -[5183.20 --> 5183.68] of Jesus -[5183.68 --> 5185.14] the -[5185.14 --> 5185.64] reality -[5185.64 --> 5186.20] of Jesus -[5186.20 --> 5187.06] coming -[5187.06 --> 5187.44] and the -[5187.44 --> 5187.80] impact -[5187.80 --> 5188.20] of Jesus -[5188.20 --> 5188.76] coming -[5188.76 --> 5190.04] works -[5190.04 --> 5191.24] its way -[5191.24 --> 5191.70] from -[5191.70 --> 5192.54] Genesis 1 -[5192.54 --> 5192.90] to -[5192.90 --> 5194.08] Revelation 22 -[5194.08 --> 5196.04] now obviously -[5196.04 --> 5196.76] this is easier -[5196.76 --> 5197.52] to do in some -[5197.52 --> 5197.74] of the -[5197.74 --> 5198.18] gospels -[5198.18 --> 5198.60] or even -[5198.60 --> 5198.96] in some -[5198.96 --> 5199.14] of the -[5199.14 --> 5199.30] letters -[5199.30 --> 5199.78] of Paul -[5199.78 --> 5200.44] but it's -[5200.44 --> 5201.00] true also -[5201.00 --> 5201.36] in the -[5201.36 --> 5201.82] story of -[5201.82 --> 5202.12] Joseph -[5202.12 --> 5203.12] or Job -[5203.12 --> 5203.42] it's -[5203.42 --> 5203.88] true in -[5203.88 --> 5204.04] the -[5204.04 --> 5204.46] Psalms -[5204.46 --> 5205.04] or the -[5205.04 --> 5205.42] Proverbs -[5205.42 --> 5205.72] it's -[5205.72 --> 5206.20] true in -[5206.20 --> 5206.34] the -[5206.34 --> 5207.00] Lamentations -[5207.00 --> 5207.34] in the -[5207.34 --> 5207.60] book of -[5207.60 --> 5208.06] Lamentations -[5208.06 --> 5208.38] it's -[5208.38 --> 5208.64] even -[5208.64 --> 5208.96] true -[5208.96 --> 5209.52] in the -[5209.52 --> 5209.92] horrors -[5209.92 --> 5210.12] of -[5210.12 --> 5210.84] Hosea -[5210.84 --> 5211.70] every -[5211.70 --> 5212.16] text -[5212.16 --> 5212.60] every -[5212.60 --> 5213.10] step -[5213.10 --> 5213.66] along -[5213.66 --> 5213.84] the -[5213.84 --> 5214.12] way -[5214.12 --> 5214.76] takes -[5214.76 --> 5215.10] you -[5215.10 --> 5215.58] to -[5215.58 --> 5215.88] Jesus -[5215.88 --> 5216.84] and so -[5216.84 --> 5217.24] when you -[5217.24 --> 5217.96] study a -[5217.96 --> 5218.42] text of -[5218.42 --> 5218.90] the Bible -[5218.90 --> 5219.68] you've got to -[5219.68 --> 5219.98] get to -[5219.98 --> 5220.36] Jesus -[5220.36 --> 5222.24] or you -[5222.24 --> 5222.66] didn't actually -[5222.66 --> 5223.12] study that -[5223.12 --> 5223.48] text -[5223.48 --> 5224.28] at least -[5224.28 --> 5224.54] not in -[5224.54 --> 5224.70] its -[5224.70 --> 5224.90] form -[5224.90 --> 5226.94] and so -[5226.94 --> 5228.00] mining -[5228.00 --> 5228.62] the text -[5228.62 --> 5229.68] exploring -[5229.68 --> 5230.48] the context -[5230.48 --> 5231.30] how does -[5231.30 --> 5231.90] that help -[5231.90 --> 5233.06] us understand -[5233.06 --> 5233.72] the text -[5233.72 --> 5234.38] to reveal -[5234.38 --> 5235.02] the truth -[5235.02 --> 5236.00] about -[5236.00 --> 5237.04] Jesus -[5237.04 --> 5239.80] you guys -[5239.80 --> 5240.22] are smart -[5240.22 --> 5240.82] you've -[5240.82 --> 5241.08] probably -[5241.08 --> 5241.44] pieced -[5241.44 --> 5241.56] it -[5241.56 --> 5241.94] together -[5241.94 --> 5242.96] but for -[5242.96 --> 5243.24] those of -[5243.24 --> 5243.48] you just -[5243.48 --> 5243.68] tuning -[5243.68 --> 5244.08] back in -[5244.08 --> 5244.36] for those -[5244.36 --> 5244.50] of you -[5244.50 --> 5244.68] just -[5244.68 --> 5244.94] waking -[5244.94 --> 5245.20] up -[5245.20 --> 5245.66] we're -[5245.66 --> 5245.86] nearing -[5245.86 --> 5246.18] the end -[5246.18 --> 5246.44] so you -[5246.44 --> 5246.70] came in -[5246.70 --> 5246.92] the right -[5246.92 --> 5247.24] spot -[5247.24 --> 5248.78] in John -[5248.78 --> 5249.70] 4 23 -[5249.70 --> 5250.20] Jesus -[5250.20 --> 5250.76] says -[5250.76 --> 5251.50] yet a -[5251.50 --> 5252.08] time is -[5252.08 --> 5252.54] coming -[5252.54 --> 5253.38] and has -[5253.38 --> 5253.94] now come -[5253.94 --> 5254.46] when the -[5254.46 --> 5254.72] true -[5254.72 --> 5255.36] worshipers -[5255.36 --> 5255.88] will worship -[5255.88 --> 5256.36] the Father -[5256.36 --> 5256.76] in the -[5256.76 --> 5257.08] spirit -[5257.08 --> 5258.04] and in -[5258.04 --> 5258.36] truth -[5258.36 --> 5259.32] God -[5259.32 --> 5259.86] is spirit -[5259.86 --> 5260.22] and his -[5260.22 --> 5260.70] worshipers -[5260.70 --> 5261.42] must worship -[5261.42 --> 5262.14] in the -[5262.14 --> 5262.40] spirit -[5262.40 --> 5263.46] and in -[5263.46 --> 5264.12] truth -[5264.12 --> 5264.82] and then -[5264.82 --> 5265.12] in John -[5265.12 --> 5265.38] 8 -[5265.38 --> 5265.74] if you -[5265.74 --> 5266.14] hold to -[5266.14 --> 5266.62] my teaching -[5266.62 --> 5267.00] you are -[5267.00 --> 5267.46] really my -[5267.46 --> 5267.98] disciples -[5267.98 --> 5268.74] then you -[5268.74 --> 5269.18] will know -[5269.18 --> 5269.78] the truth -[5269.78 --> 5270.40] and the -[5270.40 --> 5270.74] truth -[5270.74 --> 5271.48] will set -[5271.48 --> 5272.04] you -[5272.04 --> 5272.72] free -[5272.72 --> 5274.40] right -[5274.40 --> 5274.64] and then -[5274.64 --> 5274.96] in verse -[5274.96 --> 5275.44] 44 -[5275.44 --> 5276.10] and following -[5276.10 --> 5276.86] Jesus -[5276.86 --> 5277.16] says -[5277.16 --> 5277.42] it is -[5277.42 --> 5277.84] the devil -[5277.84 --> 5278.54] who lies -[5278.54 --> 5279.38] and Jesus -[5279.38 --> 5279.94] who tells -[5279.94 --> 5280.26] the truth -[5280.26 --> 5280.50] that if -[5280.50 --> 5280.84] you really -[5280.84 --> 5281.46] belong to -[5281.46 --> 5281.76] God -[5281.76 --> 5282.08] you will -[5282.08 --> 5282.50] know the -[5282.50 --> 5282.74] truth -[5282.74 --> 5283.36] of who -[5283.36 --> 5283.64] Jesus -[5283.64 --> 5284.08] is -[5284.08 --> 5284.68] and what -[5284.68 --> 5285.30] he says -[5285.30 --> 5285.66] as -[5285.66 --> 5286.28] true -[5286.28 --> 5287.50] truth -[5287.50 --> 5288.10] is the -[5288.10 --> 5288.60] reality -[5288.60 --> 5289.14] of Jesus -[5289.14 --> 5289.52] coming -[5289.52 --> 5289.88] and the -[5289.88 --> 5290.26] impact -[5290.26 --> 5290.54] of his -[5290.54 --> 5290.86] coming -[5290.86 --> 5291.88] on reality -[5291.88 --> 5292.36] and so -[5292.36 --> 5292.94] when Jesus -[5292.94 --> 5293.50] says -[5293.50 --> 5293.90] true -[5293.90 --> 5294.64] worshipers -[5294.64 --> 5295.48] will worship -[5295.48 --> 5295.98] the Father -[5295.98 --> 5296.48] in the -[5296.48 --> 5296.74] spirit -[5296.74 --> 5297.28] and in -[5297.28 --> 5297.60] truth -[5297.60 --> 5298.56] he means -[5298.56 --> 5299.34] the truth -[5299.34 --> 5299.78] of -[5299.78 --> 5300.58] himself -[5300.58 --> 5302.24] the reality -[5302.24 --> 5302.78] changing -[5302.78 --> 5303.22] truth -[5303.22 --> 5303.52] of what -[5303.52 --> 5303.96] he has -[5303.96 --> 5304.44] come to -[5304.44 --> 5304.80] do -[5304.80 --> 5305.44] and his -[5305.44 --> 5305.82] kingdom -[5305.82 --> 5306.46] on earth -[5306.46 --> 5308.40] the Samaritan's -[5308.40 --> 5309.02] woman's -[5309.02 --> 5310.20] life -[5310.20 --> 5310.74] is -[5310.74 --> 5311.86] changed -[5311.86 --> 5312.24] by her -[5312.24 --> 5312.68] interaction -[5312.68 --> 5313.10] with Jesus -[5313.10 --> 5313.40] and that -[5313.40 --> 5313.64] actually -[5313.64 --> 5314.52] confirms -[5314.52 --> 5315.42] our point -[5315.42 --> 5315.88] this morning -[5315.88 --> 5316.68] she was -[5316.68 --> 5317.32] changed -[5317.32 --> 5317.72] by her -[5317.72 --> 5318.18] encounter -[5318.18 --> 5319.20] with Jesus -[5319.20 --> 5319.98] so much -[5319.98 --> 5320.40] so that -[5320.40 --> 5320.70] when she -[5320.70 --> 5321.30] left that -[5321.30 --> 5322.12] well there -[5322.12 --> 5322.48] she went -[5322.48 --> 5323.12] back into -[5323.12 --> 5324.00] her town -[5324.00 --> 5324.34] and she -[5324.34 --> 5325.24] told everybody -[5325.24 --> 5326.00] about this -[5326.00 --> 5326.42] man that -[5326.42 --> 5326.80] she had met -[5326.80 --> 5327.06] she said -[5327.06 --> 5327.80] come and see -[5327.80 --> 5328.40] a man who -[5328.40 --> 5328.94] has told me -[5328.94 --> 5329.90] everything I -[5329.90 --> 5330.38] have ever -[5330.38 --> 5330.68] done -[5330.68 --> 5331.44] could this -[5331.44 --> 5331.84] be the -[5331.84 --> 5332.24] Messiah -[5332.24 --> 5333.02] and her -[5333.02 --> 5333.76] reality -[5333.76 --> 5334.60] was so -[5334.60 --> 5335.16] affected -[5335.16 --> 5336.34] that she -[5336.34 --> 5336.94] was used -[5336.94 --> 5337.60] by God -[5337.60 --> 5338.36] to change -[5338.36 --> 5339.12] the realities -[5339.12 --> 5339.70] of those -[5339.70 --> 5340.04] in her -[5340.04 --> 5340.52] hometown -[5340.52 --> 5342.12] they actually -[5342.12 --> 5342.84] come later -[5342.84 --> 5343.76] in the story -[5343.76 --> 5344.58] in chapter 4 -[5344.58 --> 5345.44] they come -[5345.44 --> 5346.02] and they say -[5346.02 --> 5346.42] to her -[5346.42 --> 5347.50] we no longer -[5347.50 --> 5348.10] believe -[5348.10 --> 5348.84] just as -[5348.84 --> 5349.76] just because -[5349.76 --> 5350.30] of what you -[5350.30 --> 5350.66] said -[5350.66 --> 5351.58] now we -[5351.58 --> 5352.32] have heard -[5352.32 --> 5353.34] for ourselves -[5353.34 --> 5354.22] and we -[5354.22 --> 5354.82] know -[5354.82 --> 5355.66] that this -[5355.66 --> 5356.40] man really -[5356.40 --> 5357.14] is the -[5357.14 --> 5357.44] savior -[5357.44 --> 5358.44] of the -[5358.44 --> 5358.76] world -[5358.76 --> 5360.86] meeting -[5360.86 --> 5361.20] Jesus -[5361.20 --> 5361.70] changed -[5361.70 --> 5362.00] their -[5362.00 --> 5363.16] reality -[5363.16 --> 5364.58] same is -[5364.58 --> 5364.92] true in -[5364.92 --> 5365.50] chapter 8 -[5365.50 --> 5366.40] right -[5366.40 --> 5366.78] then you -[5366.78 --> 5367.08] will know -[5367.08 --> 5367.52] the truth -[5367.52 --> 5367.86] and the -[5367.86 --> 5368.08] truth -[5368.08 --> 5368.54] will set -[5368.54 --> 5369.00] you free -[5369.00 --> 5369.54] but what -[5369.54 --> 5369.90] truth -[5369.90 --> 5371.80] the reality -[5371.80 --> 5372.26] of Jesus -[5372.26 --> 5372.66] coming -[5372.66 --> 5373.00] and the -[5373.00 --> 5373.38] impact -[5373.38 --> 5373.72] of Jesus -[5373.72 --> 5374.12] coming -[5374.12 --> 5375.32] on reality -[5375.32 --> 5376.68] out of -[5376.68 --> 5377.36] his great -[5377.36 --> 5377.96] love for -[5377.96 --> 5378.22] us -[5378.22 --> 5378.52] Jesus -[5378.52 --> 5379.00] comes -[5379.00 --> 5379.44] into -[5379.44 --> 5380.08] the world -[5380.08 --> 5380.46] right -[5380.46 --> 5380.94] the world -[5380.94 --> 5381.40] that he -[5381.40 --> 5382.16] created -[5382.16 --> 5382.54] and he -[5382.54 --> 5382.88] lives -[5382.88 --> 5383.40] the life -[5383.40 --> 5383.82] I should -[5383.82 --> 5384.30] have lived -[5384.30 --> 5385.10] and dies -[5385.10 --> 5385.70] the death -[5385.70 --> 5386.20] that I -[5386.20 --> 5386.56] deserve -[5386.56 --> 5387.00] and by -[5387.00 --> 5387.92] his amazing -[5387.92 --> 5388.34] grace -[5388.34 --> 5389.46] my reality -[5389.46 --> 5390.50] is changed -[5390.50 --> 5391.32] from death -[5391.32 --> 5392.06] to life -[5392.06 --> 5393.42] I am a new -[5393.42 --> 5394.24] creation -[5394.24 --> 5395.10] by grace -[5395.10 --> 5395.84] through faith -[5395.84 --> 5397.38] you are a new -[5397.38 --> 5398.18] creation -[5398.18 --> 5399.92] this is truth -[5399.92 --> 5401.34] this is gospel -[5401.34 --> 5402.26] you are set -[5402.26 --> 5403.56] free from sin -[5403.56 --> 5404.08] and death -[5404.08 --> 5404.80] because of his -[5404.80 --> 5406.18] life and resurrection -[5406.18 --> 5407.48] that's the truth -[5407.48 --> 5408.42] of John 4 -[5408.42 --> 5409.34] and John 8 -[5409.34 --> 5411.04] the truth -[5411.04 --> 5412.54] is the reality -[5412.54 --> 5413.10] of Jesus -[5413.10 --> 5413.52] coming -[5413.52 --> 5414.64] and the impact -[5414.64 --> 5415.20] of Jesus -[5415.20 --> 5415.62] coming -[5415.62 --> 5416.64] on reality -[5416.64 --> 5417.50] everything -[5417.50 --> 5418.06] points -[5418.06 --> 5418.84] to Jesus -[5418.84 --> 5419.38] and that -[5419.38 --> 5419.96] means -[5419.96 --> 5420.48] Jesus -[5420.48 --> 5421.42] changes -[5421.42 --> 5422.46] everything -[5422.46 --> 5425.68] and that's -[5425.68 --> 5426.20] step 4 -[5426.20 --> 5427.48] to how you -[5427.48 --> 5428.44] understand a text -[5428.44 --> 5430.50] every text -[5430.50 --> 5431.26] is about Jesus -[5431.26 --> 5432.24] and so -[5432.24 --> 5433.24] every text -[5433.24 --> 5434.74] has a call -[5434.74 --> 5436.06] to action -[5436.06 --> 5437.64] right -[5437.64 --> 5438.10] every text -[5438.10 --> 5438.68] has an answer -[5438.68 --> 5439.36] to what -[5439.36 --> 5440.12] does this -[5440.12 --> 5441.08] change -[5441.08 --> 5444.00] 2 Timothy 3 -[5444.00 --> 5445.18] we read -[5445.18 --> 5445.56] that all -[5445.56 --> 5445.98] scripture -[5445.98 --> 5446.58] is God -[5446.58 --> 5447.18] breathed -[5447.18 --> 5448.04] and is useful -[5448.04 --> 5448.72] for teaching -[5448.72 --> 5449.32] rebuking -[5449.32 --> 5449.78] correcting -[5449.78 --> 5450.34] and training -[5450.34 --> 5450.96] in righteousness -[5450.96 --> 5451.94] so that the -[5451.94 --> 5452.68] servant of God -[5452.68 --> 5453.46] may be thoroughly -[5453.46 --> 5453.96] equipped -[5453.96 --> 5455.00] for every -[5455.00 --> 5456.20] good work -[5456.20 --> 5458.44] now many of us -[5458.44 --> 5458.80] are familiar -[5458.80 --> 5459.48] with this text -[5459.48 --> 5460.38] but hear those -[5460.38 --> 5460.82] words -[5460.82 --> 5461.90] those are all -[5461.90 --> 5463.22] change words -[5463.22 --> 5463.80] those are all -[5463.80 --> 5465.04] transform words -[5465.04 --> 5465.18] right -[5465.18 --> 5466.30] all of scripture -[5466.30 --> 5468.06] will teach you -[5468.06 --> 5468.50] something -[5468.50 --> 5469.78] will rebuke -[5469.78 --> 5470.08] you -[5470.08 --> 5470.94] will correct -[5470.94 --> 5471.26] you -[5471.26 --> 5471.96] or train -[5471.96 --> 5472.32] you in -[5472.32 --> 5472.76] righteousness -[5472.76 --> 5474.04] so that you -[5474.04 --> 5475.08] can be equipped -[5475.08 --> 5476.20] for every -[5476.20 --> 5476.88] good work -[5476.88 --> 5479.52] sometimes -[5479.52 --> 5480.74] a text -[5480.74 --> 5481.40] is about -[5481.40 --> 5482.64] obedience -[5482.64 --> 5483.72] right -[5483.72 --> 5484.32] about doing -[5484.32 --> 5484.76] something -[5484.76 --> 5485.50] or not -[5485.50 --> 5485.88] doing -[5485.88 --> 5486.70] something -[5486.70 --> 5488.04] sometimes -[5488.04 --> 5488.84] a text -[5488.84 --> 5489.32] is about -[5489.32 --> 5490.14] doxology -[5490.14 --> 5490.52] about -[5490.52 --> 5491.80] praising God -[5491.80 --> 5492.48] for who he -[5492.48 --> 5493.04] is and -[5493.04 --> 5493.88] what he has -[5493.88 --> 5494.14] done -[5494.14 --> 5494.64] sometimes -[5494.64 --> 5495.18] a text -[5495.18 --> 5495.84] is about -[5495.84 --> 5496.30] mission -[5496.30 --> 5496.58] about -[5496.58 --> 5497.18] joining -[5497.18 --> 5497.76] with God -[5497.76 --> 5498.72] to reach -[5498.72 --> 5499.30] those who -[5499.30 --> 5499.68] do not -[5499.68 --> 5499.88] yet -[5499.88 --> 5500.66] know him -[5500.66 --> 5501.58] sometimes -[5501.58 --> 5502.32] a text -[5502.32 --> 5502.90] an application -[5502.90 --> 5504.00] is about -[5504.00 --> 5505.26] seeing reality -[5505.26 --> 5505.96] in the way -[5505.96 --> 5506.44] that God -[5506.44 --> 5507.46] has designed -[5507.46 --> 5508.38] it and reveals -[5508.38 --> 5509.26] himself through -[5509.26 --> 5510.66] but the point -[5510.66 --> 5511.32] is that all -[5511.32 --> 5512.10] scripture is -[5512.10 --> 5512.94] God breathed -[5512.94 --> 5513.92] to change -[5513.92 --> 5514.54] you from -[5514.54 --> 5515.28] the inside -[5515.28 --> 5515.92] out -[5515.92 --> 5516.52] to change -[5516.52 --> 5516.94] your mind -[5516.94 --> 5517.38] to change -[5517.38 --> 5517.78] your heart -[5517.78 --> 5518.44] to change -[5518.44 --> 5518.88] your life -[5518.88 --> 5521.04] and just -[5521.04 --> 5521.64] like if you -[5521.64 --> 5522.16] don't get -[5522.16 --> 5522.70] to Jesus -[5522.70 --> 5523.28] through your -[5523.28 --> 5523.88] Bible study -[5523.88 --> 5525.28] if you -[5525.28 --> 5526.36] having seen -[5526.36 --> 5526.94] Jesus -[5526.94 --> 5529.02] don't have -[5529.02 --> 5529.44] your life -[5529.44 --> 5530.10] transformed -[5530.10 --> 5530.86] by the power -[5530.86 --> 5531.30] of the Holy -[5531.30 --> 5531.70] Spirit -[5531.70 --> 5532.14] from one -[5532.14 --> 5532.70] degree of -[5532.70 --> 5532.98] glory -[5532.98 --> 5533.36] to the -[5533.36 --> 5533.60] other -[5533.60 --> 5534.56] haven't -[5534.56 --> 5534.86] really -[5534.86 --> 5535.44] wrestled -[5535.44 --> 5536.40] the Bible -[5536.40 --> 5537.26] haven't -[5537.26 --> 5537.48] really -[5537.48 --> 5537.90] encountered -[5537.90 --> 5538.66] the voice -[5538.66 --> 5540.28] of the -[5540.28 --> 5540.74] creator -[5540.74 --> 5542.22] in your -[5542.22 --> 5542.54] life -[5542.54 --> 5544.76] so -[5544.76 --> 5545.98] in our -[5545.98 --> 5546.58] case study -[5546.58 --> 5547.38] text then -[5547.38 --> 5548.10] what is -[5548.10 --> 5548.62] that call -[5548.62 --> 5549.28] to action -[5549.28 --> 5549.92] when you -[5549.92 --> 5550.30] see the -[5550.30 --> 5550.72] reality -[5550.72 --> 5551.18] of Jesus -[5551.18 --> 5551.54] coming -[5551.54 --> 5551.80] and the -[5551.80 --> 5552.10] impact -[5552.10 --> 5552.44] of Jesus -[5552.44 --> 5552.82] coming -[5552.82 --> 5554.12] on reality -[5554.12 --> 5556.56] you profess -[5556.56 --> 5556.90] it -[5556.90 --> 5558.46] right like -[5558.46 --> 5559.12] Jared and -[5559.12 --> 5559.86] Hadassah and -[5559.86 --> 5560.28] Noah you -[5560.28 --> 5561.20] proclaim it -[5561.20 --> 5562.24] you live -[5562.24 --> 5562.80] your life -[5562.80 --> 5563.34] by it -[5563.34 --> 5564.70] you worship -[5564.70 --> 5565.64] God in -[5565.64 --> 5566.32] it you live -[5566.32 --> 5567.10] out of it -[5567.10 --> 5567.76] set free -[5567.76 --> 5568.54] from the lies -[5568.54 --> 5569.08] of the devil -[5569.08 --> 5569.74] and of the -[5569.74 --> 5570.44] world your -[5570.44 --> 5571.48] reality now -[5571.48 --> 5572.08] is marked -[5572.08 --> 5572.60] out by -[5572.60 --> 5573.50] relationship -[5573.50 --> 5574.56] to God -[5574.56 --> 5575.36] who created -[5575.36 --> 5576.52] reality -[5576.52 --> 5578.66] reality -[5578.66 --> 5578.84] and so -[5578.84 --> 5579.56] you understand -[5579.56 --> 5580.36] reality by -[5580.36 --> 5580.64] it -[5580.64 --> 5582.18] whether it's -[5582.18 --> 5582.78] in science -[5582.78 --> 5583.90] or theology -[5583.90 --> 5585.30] whether it's -[5585.30 --> 5585.92] from the pulpit -[5585.92 --> 5586.44] or in the -[5586.44 --> 5587.00] sand pit -[5587.00 --> 5588.06] you proclaim -[5588.06 --> 5588.92] the reality -[5588.92 --> 5589.68] of Jesus -[5589.68 --> 5590.72] in a world -[5590.72 --> 5591.48] that is -[5591.48 --> 5592.02] otherwise -[5592.02 --> 5593.00] blind -[5593.00 --> 5596.92] so -[5596.92 --> 5598.36] here -[5598.36 --> 5600.24] say -[5600.24 --> 5602.96] your application -[5602.96 --> 5605.38] you live -[5605.38 --> 5605.70] it -[5605.70 --> 5606.64] tomorrow -[5606.64 --> 5608.24] the next -[5608.24 --> 5609.94] and forever -[5609.94 --> 5612.18] profession -[5612.18 --> 5612.78] of faith -[5612.78 --> 5613.92] doesn't -[5613.92 --> 5614.50] stop -[5614.50 --> 5615.34] when you've -[5615.34 --> 5615.74] walked off -[5615.74 --> 5616.30] the stage -[5616.30 --> 5617.70] in fact -[5617.70 --> 5618.80] your profession -[5618.80 --> 5619.36] of faith -[5619.36 --> 5621.10] really starts -[5621.10 --> 5622.38] walk out -[5622.38 --> 5622.78] these doors -[5622.78 --> 5624.10] amen -[5624.10 --> 5625.78] let's pray -[5625.78 --> 5626.08] together -[5632.96 --> 5633.86] lord our -[5633.86 --> 5634.64] god -[5634.64 --> 5637.90] have met -[5637.90 --> 5638.42] us -[5638.42 --> 5639.72] in this -[5639.72 --> 5640.72] place -[5640.72 --> 5641.34] as we -[5641.34 --> 5641.74] gather -[5641.74 --> 5642.72] in your -[5642.72 --> 5643.06] name -[5643.06 --> 5645.30] sanctify -[5645.30 --> 5645.82] us -[5645.82 --> 5646.46] by your -[5646.46 --> 5646.78] truth -[5646.78 --> 5647.40] your -[5647.40 --> 5648.26] word -[5648.26 --> 5649.02] is -[5649.02 --> 5649.84] truth -[5649.84 --> 5652.18] open the -[5652.18 --> 5652.68] eyes of our -[5652.68 --> 5653.04] heart -[5653.04 --> 5653.62] to see -[5653.62 --> 5654.00] you -[5654.00 --> 5654.44] lord -[5654.44 --> 5655.36] jesus -[5655.36 --> 5657.18] that in -[5657.18 --> 5657.60] seeing -[5657.60 --> 5658.06] you -[5658.06 --> 5658.50] we -[5658.50 --> 5659.18] may be -[5659.18 --> 5659.90] transformed -[5659.90 --> 5661.50] and so -[5661.50 --> 5661.82] now -[5661.82 --> 5662.56] send us -[5662.56 --> 5662.86] out -[5662.86 --> 5663.36] in the -[5663.36 --> 5663.88] power -[5663.88 --> 5664.86] of -[5664.86 --> 5665.16] your -[5665.16 --> 5665.44] name -[5665.44 --> 5665.98] send us -[5665.98 --> 5666.22] out -[5666.22 --> 5666.44] in the -[5666.44 --> 5666.80] truth -[5666.80 --> 5667.36] of the -[5667.36 --> 5667.70] gospel -[5667.70 --> 5668.40] send us -[5668.40 --> 5668.74] out -[5668.74 --> 5669.56] in the -[5669.56 --> 5670.08] conviction -[5670.08 --> 5671.20] of the -[5671.20 --> 5671.46] holy -[5671.46 --> 5671.92] spirit -[5671.92 --> 5672.72] the spirit -[5672.72 --> 5673.36] of -[5673.36 --> 5674.16] truth -[5674.16 --> 5676.20] we might -[5676.20 --> 5676.58] live -[5676.58 --> 5677.58] for you -[5677.58 --> 5678.52] we might -[5678.52 --> 5679.16] proclaim -[5679.16 --> 5679.94] you -[5679.94 --> 5680.26] that we -[5680.26 --> 5680.44] might -[5680.44 --> 5681.08] profess -[5681.08 --> 5681.96] you -[5681.96 --> 5682.96] all the -[5682.96 --> 5683.40] days -[5683.40 --> 5684.34] of our -[5684.34 --> 5684.70] lives -[5684.70 --> 5685.88] christ -[5685.88 --> 5686.38] name -[5686.38 --> 5686.66] we -[5686.66 --> 5686.94] pray -[5692.56 --> 5693.62] please -[5693.62 --> 5693.96] stand -[5693.96 --> 5694.18] as -[5694.18 --> 5694.36] we -[5694.36 --> 5694.56] sing -[5694.56 --> 5694.98] together -[5694.98 --> 5723.74] all my -[5723.74 --> 5724.88] days -[5724.88 --> 5725.70] i will -[5725.70 --> 5726.44] sing -[5726.44 --> 5726.86] this -[5726.86 --> 5727.58] song -[5727.58 --> 5727.86] of -[5727.86 --> 5729.52] gladness -[5729.52 --> 5730.54] give -[5730.54 --> 5731.86] my -[5731.86 --> 5732.92] praise -[5732.92 --> 5733.90] to the -[5733.90 --> 5734.62] fountain -[5734.62 --> 5735.58] of -[5735.58 --> 5737.14] delights -[5737.14 --> 5738.00] for -[5738.00 --> 5738.96] in -[5738.96 --> 5739.94] my -[5739.94 --> 5741.44] helplessness -[5741.44 --> 5741.92] you -[5741.92 --> 5742.92] heard -[5742.92 --> 5743.86] my -[5743.86 --> 5745.04] cry -[5745.04 --> 5745.94] and -[5745.94 --> 5746.96] waves -[5746.96 --> 5747.90] of -[5747.90 --> 5748.44] mercy -[5748.44 --> 5748.98] poured -[5748.98 --> 5749.36] down -[5749.36 --> 5749.70] on -[5749.70 --> 5750.38] my -[5750.38 --> 5751.84] life -[5751.84 --> 5753.84] i -[5753.84 --> 5755.92] will -[5755.92 --> 5757.04] trust -[5757.04 --> 5757.94] in the -[5757.94 --> 5758.68] cross -[5758.68 --> 5759.02] of -[5759.02 --> 5759.68] my -[5759.68 --> 5761.24] redeemer -[5761.24 --> 5761.84] i -[5762.44 --> 5763.92] will -[5763.92 --> 5765.00] sing -[5765.00 --> 5765.68] of -[5765.68 --> 5765.96] the -[5765.96 --> 5766.64] blood -[5766.64 --> 5766.98] that -[5766.98 --> 5767.80] never -[5767.80 --> 5769.26] fails -[5769.26 --> 5769.92] of -[5769.92 --> 5770.92] sins -[5770.92 --> 5772.96] forgiven -[5772.96 --> 5773.84] of -[5773.84 --> 5774.96] conscience -[5774.96 --> 5777.12] cleansed -[5777.12 --> 5777.80] of -[5777.80 --> 5778.76] death -[5778.76 --> 5780.18] defeated -[5780.18 --> 5781.08] and life -[5781.08 --> 5781.52] without -[5781.52 --> 5784.26] end -[5784.26 --> 5785.38] beautiful -[5785.38 --> 5786.90] savior -[5786.90 --> 5789.38] wonderful -[5789.38 --> 5791.70] counselor -[5791.70 --> 5793.62] bold in -[5793.62 --> 5794.38] majesty -[5794.38 --> 5795.64] lord of -[5795.64 --> 5796.34] history -[5796.34 --> 5797.48] you're the -[5797.48 --> 5798.06] way -[5798.06 --> 5799.16] the truth -[5799.16 --> 5800.10] the life -[5800.10 --> 5801.16] star of -[5801.16 --> 5802.80] the morning -[5802.80 --> 5805.06] glorious -[5805.06 --> 5807.38] in holiness -[5807.38 --> 5809.38] you're the -[5809.38 --> 5809.88] risen -[5809.88 --> 5810.50] one -[5810.50 --> 5811.42] heaven's -[5811.42 --> 5811.96] champion -[5811.96 --> 5813.34] and you -[5813.34 --> 5814.18] reign -[5814.18 --> 5815.34] you'll -[5815.34 --> 5816.22] reign -[5816.22 --> 5817.10] over -[5817.10 --> 5819.38] all -[5819.38 --> 5825.38] i long -[5826.84 --> 5827.38] to be -[5828.02 --> 5829.18] where the -[5829.18 --> 5830.22] praise is -[5830.22 --> 5831.08] never -[5831.08 --> 5832.72] ending -[5832.72 --> 5834.84] yearn -[5834.84 --> 5836.06] to dwell -[5836.06 --> 5836.98] where the -[5836.98 --> 5837.80] glory -[5837.80 --> 5838.80] never -[5838.80 --> 5840.18] fades -[5840.18 --> 5840.90] where -[5840.90 --> 5842.18] countless -[5842.18 --> 5844.18] worshippers -[5844.18 --> 5845.72] will share -[5845.72 --> 5847.78] one song -[5847.78 --> 5848.68] and -[5848.68 --> 5849.76] cries -[5849.76 --> 5850.68] up -[5850.68 --> 5851.22] worthy -[5851.22 --> 5851.70] will -[5851.70 --> 5852.20] honor -[5852.20 --> 5853.02] the -[5853.02 --> 5855.18] land -[5855.18 --> 5857.24] they -[5857.24 --> 5858.00] who -[5858.02 --> 5858.98] R problems -[5858.98 --> 5863.34] Wonderful Counselor -[5863.34 --> 5865.12] Clothed in majesty -[5865.12 --> 5867.12] Lord of history -[5867.12 --> 5870.96] You're the way, the truth, the life -[5870.96 --> 5873.58] Star of the morning -[5873.58 --> 5878.20] Glorious in holiness -[5878.20 --> 5881.28] You're the risen one -[5881.28 --> 5882.74] Heaven's champion -[5882.74 --> 5884.74] And you reign -[5884.74 --> 5888.80] You reign over all -[5888.80 --> 5911.36] As you go this week, know that God himself goes with you. -[5911.36 --> 5916.90] Go also with an invitation to stick around after service for a time of gathering at the back. -[5917.38 --> 5921.76] There's coffee and some other refreshments available for us this morning. -[5922.22 --> 5926.66] As well, you can offer an encouragement to the three who made Profession of Faith here. -[5927.36 --> 5930.42] Go with the blessing of our good God. -[5931.90 --> 5934.76] May God go before you to lead you. -[5935.48 --> 5937.68] May God go behind you to guard you. -[5938.32 --> 5940.78] May God go beneath you to support you. -[5940.78 --> 5943.54] May God go beside you to befriend you. -[5944.00 --> 5945.96] Do not be afraid. -[5945.96 --> 5948.46] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5948.60 --> 5950.42] Do not be afraid. -[5950.98 --> 5952.82] But go in peace -[5952.82 --> 5955.40] to love and serve the Lord. -[5955.40 --> 5962.44] You're the boy, the Lamb who was singing. -[5962.44 --> 5976.04] You are siendo to heaven and never more will reign at the end of the age. -[5976.04 --> 5977.98] But you cannot fire the world in that. -[5977.98 --> 5989.78] You ascended to heaven and evermore will reign. At the end of the age when the earth you recieve, you will gather the nations before you. -[5989.78 --> 6005.42] And the eyes of all men will be fixed on the Lamb who was crucified. With wisdom and mercy and justice you'll reign at your Father's side. -[6005.42 --> 6019.32] And the angels will cry, Hail the Lamb who has seen for the world rule in fire. -[6020.90 --> 6033.16] And the earth will reply, You shall reign as the King of all kings and the Lord of all kings. -[6035.42 --> 6047.70] There's a shield in our hand and a sword at our side. There's a fire in our spirits that cannot be denied. -[6047.70 --> 6055.06] Because the Father has told us for what deeds you have done for the nations that gather before you. -[6055.48 --> 6061.60] And the ears of all men need to hear of the Lamb who was crucified. -[6061.60 --> 6069.60] Who descended to hell yet was raised up to reign at his Father's side. -[6070.48 --> 6083.36] And the angels will cry, Hail the Lamb who was slain for the world rule in fire. -[6083.36 --> 6085.36] And the earth will reply, Hail the Lamb who was slain for the world rule in fire. -[6085.36 --> 6113.34] And the earth will reply, Hail the Lamb who was slain for the world rule in fire. -[6113.34 --> 6115.34] Hail the Lamb who was slain for the world rule in fire. -[6115.34 --> 6119.34] And the Lord of all kings and the Lord of all lords. -[6119.34 --> 6128.34] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords. -[6128.34 --> 6130.34] And the Lord of all lords. -[6130.34 --> 6132.34] Amen. -[6132.34 --> 6134.34] Jesus. -[6134.34 --> 6164.32] Thank you. -[6164.34 --> 6194.32] Thank you. -[6194.34 --> 6224.32] Thank you. -[6224.34 --> 6226.34] Thank you. -[6254.34 --> 6256.34] Thank you. -[6256.34 --> 6258.34] Thank you. -[6258.34 --> 6260.34] Thank you. -[6260.34 --> 6262.34] Thank you. -[6262.34 --> 6264.34] Thank you. -[6264.34 --> 6266.34] Thank you. -[6266.34 --> 6268.34] Thank you. -[6268.34 --> 6270.34] Thank you. -[6270.34 --> 6272.34] Thank you. -[6272.34 --> 6279.06] All my failures I tried to hide. -[6281.08 --> 6287.70] It was my dream till I made it. -[6289.66 --> 6295.98] You called my name and I ran out of that day. -[6295.98 --> 6303.92] Out of the dark to your glory. -[6325.98 --> 6355.96] Out of the dark to your glory. -[6355.98 --> 6385.96] Out of the dark to your glory. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 30, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 30, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index cffc4bc47af69babea844b01c73ae31d2ba8b49a..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 30, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,135 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction to a Sunday morning worship service -• Invitation to stand and receive God's greeting -• Welcoming those around you into worship -• A quote from A.W. Tozer's book "The Pursuit of God" on the importance of tuning ourselves to a higher standard (God) -• The concept of worship as a tuning fork, requiring regular retuning to God's presence -• Psalm 117 is read as the call to worship -• Worship songs and hymns are sung, including "Come, Now Is the Time to Worship" -• Scripture passages mentioning God's power, love, and faithfulness are read and discussed -• A prayer of confession is given, acknowledging sin and selfishness, and asking for forgiveness and a renewed obedient spirit -• Prayer to God for guidance and protection -• Introduction of a song with actions, asking children to follow along -• Series of "thank you" statements (22 instances) -• Music performance with lyrics, including themes of sin broken, salvation, and Jesus as Lord -• Song about breathing in the presence of God -• Daily prayer and worship routine at Emanuel church -• Introduction of Brenda, a deacon at Emanuel, who continues the service -• Announcement of budget offerings for the church's administration and ministries -• Special offering for Advocate Life and Education Services to promote human dignity -• Value of all human beings -• Pregnancy counseling and support services -• Community education and resources -• Trials and conditions of life -• Isolation and burdens -• Faith and trust in Jesus -• Hope and blessings -• Prayer and family devotionals -• Bible passages (Hebrews 11, Ephesians 1) -• Bible verses referencing prayer and enlightenment -• Acts chapter 26 and Paul's conversion story -• Psalms references to opening one's eyes -• Prayer for specific individuals and situations (e.g. Amy Bongers' surgery, the Roersma family, fire near Osoyoos) -• Praise and thanksgiving for creation and God's law -• Confession of sin in closing one's eyes to what is going on around them, not living by God's standards, and looking elsewhere -• Prayer for spiritual enlightenment and obedience -• Prayers for various individuals and families, including the Roersma family and Dan Howling's father -• Thanking God for recoveries of Ellen and Mahre and praying for those who are not mentioned in the bulletin -• Asking God to give eyes to see that afflictions are temporary and to compare them with the glory awaiting us -• Praying for an advocate to inspire women and families to see God's goodness and graciousness -• Thanking God for rain and praying for a new perspective and focus for the year ahead -• Praying for Marg on Township Council, giving her wisdom and insight to serve in her role -• Praying for church leaders, volunteers, pastors, and staff -• Reading from Genesis 50:15-26 about Joseph's brothers asking him to forgive them after their father's death -• Joseph lives 110 years and witnesses three generations of his family -• Joseph swears on oath to have his bones taken from Egypt when he dies -• Story of Joseph is shared as an example of how God works in the world through ordinary people -• Discussion of God's sovereignty and providence, and how these concepts relate to everyday life -• Definitions are given for God's sovereignty (right to rule) and providence -• The term "El Shaddai" means God and is the primary name for God before He gives His covenant name to His people, Yahweh. -• El Shaddai can be translated as sovereign or ruler. -• Jerome's Latin Vulgate translation of the Bible translates El Shaddai as omnipotence. -• Herman Bavinck's writings describe God's sovereignty as absolute authority over all things as creator king. -• The concept of God's sovereignty is demonstrated in Joseph's story, where his dreams show him ruling and being bowed down to by others. -• The sovereignty of God is necessary for a fixed future -• Joseph's story in Genesis begins with his attitude towards God and his faithfulness in every circumstance -• Joseph's brothers plot against him, leading to his sale into slavery in Egypt -• Potiphar's wife accuses Joseph of rape, resulting in his imprisonment -• While in prison, Joseph interprets Pharaoh's dreams and is rewarded for it -• Joseph becomes the vizier in Egypt and takes a wife and has a family -• He names his sons, saying God made him forget his trouble (Manasseh) and fruitful in the land of suffering (Ephraim) -• A famine comes, and Joseph's brothers come to receive grain from him, but are worried he will take revenge -• The rule of God and his providence in the story of Joseph -• Definition of God's providence as active ruling in the world -• Providence is God's continued involvement in the world for his glory and good -• Examples of God's providence in Scripture, including Colossians 1 and the story of Joseph -• God's providence explicitly or behind the scenes in human lives -• The power and promises of God as a source of comfort and security -• God's sovereignty and providence have an impact on everyday life -• Joseph's story illustrates how faith in God's providence affects one's actions and decisions -• Hebrews 11:22 lists Joseph as a model of faith, who by faith spoke about the exodus of Israelites from Egypt -• The promise of God to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and their descendants is fulfilled through Jesus' resurrection and return -• This fulfillment makes all of creation a new promised land. -• Joseph's life shows that the treasures of this life don't compare to God's promises for the future -• The wealth and privilege of this world do not compare to the glory of God's kingdom -• Suffering, trials, and tribulations are not worth comparing to the future glory that will be revealed in us and to us -• Our hearts often bind to the things of this world rather than our sovereign God -• Jesus Christ is a greater treasure than anything found in this world -• Even with death looming, faith in God's promises for the future brings comfort and peace in the present -• Resurrection and ascension of Jesus as a promise of his return -• Humans being meant to be embodied souls -• Importance of the physical body in being fully human and alive -• Death not hastened, but rather seen as a means for resurrection -• Heaven is good, but embodiment through resurrection is better -• Reference to 1 Corinthians 15, where Paul discusses death and resurrection -• The power of sin is the law, but thanks be to God who gives us victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. -• A powerful testimony of faith is when a person dies in the security of God's sovereignty and providence. -• Criticisms of reformed Christians often question why individuals must take action if God's will is already predetermined. -• The Bible teaches that humans are not idle, but rather commanded to work diligently and perform good works. -• The importance of making an effort and doing good works -• The Bible's commands to not be idle and take care of one's responsibilities -• God's sovereignty and providence vs. human responsibility -• The balance between trusting in God's will and taking action to fulfill one's duties -• The importance of perseverance and hard work, as seen in various biblical examples -• God's sovereignty and rule over everything -• Human accountability for intentions and actions -• The story of Joseph in chapter 50, verse 20, illustrating human intent vs. God's plan -• God's omnipotence and ability to work through human plans and actions -• Human culpability and guilt for evil intentions and actions -• God's sovereignty is not undermined by circumstances -• Joseph's story is a testament to God's sovereign rule in the world -• We have a responsibility to work diligently and make the most of our circumstances with confidence in God's sovereignty -• God's sovereignty is an encouragement for all of life -• God's providence is always good -• Jeremiah 29:11 assures us that God has plans to prosper and give hope, even in difficult circumstances -• Joseph's story and its relevance to exile and restoration -• The comfort, hope, and joy that come from knowing God's plans for us -• The importance of making plans in the face of death or uncertainty -• The role of God's sovereignty and providence in giving confidence to our plans -• A senior statesman of the church had been sick for about 25 years with lung issues -• He was on a respirator and carried an oxygen tank everywhere -• Despite being near death, he showed concern for the speaker's well-being and the church under their new leadership -• The speaker visited him regularly and shared updates on his life and family -• John expressed confidence in where he was going when he died -• His deathbed conversation with the speaker involved prayers, hymns, and a performance of "Amazing Grace" -• A person dies in front of the speaker -• The speaker reflects on the deceased's final moments and their faith -• The deceased shows joy, confidence, and acceptance of death -• The speaker contrasts the deceased's experience with human suffering and God's sovereignty -• The speaker has a later conversation with Louis Vandenberg about the series they preached on God's sovereignty -• The speaker shares their personal experience of being encouraged by a sermon series and returning each week to hear more. -• The speaker references the story of Louis, who had confidence in God's sovereignty before passing away. -• The main topic is that God is sovereign and rules in this world, having a plan and purpose for everyone. -• The speaker emphasizes that God's sovereignty brings good and encourages listeners to rest secure in His promise and power. -• Prayer and confidence in God's presence -• Looking to Joseph for guidance -• Seeing God through others placed in their lives -• Praise and worship of God -• Salvation through Jesus Christ -• Power of the cross and resurrection -• Overcoming sin and death -• God's sovereignty and providence -• Protection, support, and blessing from God -• Praise and admiration for someone's presence -• Comparison of the person to a bright star -• Expression of gratitude and appreciation -• Reiteration of thanks, repeated multiple times \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 30, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 30, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index e4095899a9cf9e8fd9dffdea2e2a295d8e3211cb..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 30, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2555 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 4.86] inform -[4.86 --> 34.84] Thank you. -[34.86 --> 64.84] Thank you. -[64.86 --> 66.86] Thank you. -[94.86 --> 96.86] Thank you. -[124.86 --> 126.86] Thank you. -[154.86 --> 156.86] Thank you. -[184.86 --> 186.86] Thank you. -[214.86 --> 216.86] Thank you. -[244.86 --> 246.86] Thank you. -[246.86 --> 248.86] Thank you. -[248.86 --> 250.86] Thank you. -[250.86 --> 252.86] Thank you. -[252.86 --> 254.86] Thank you. -[254.86 --> 256.86] Thank you. -[256.86 --> 258.86] Thank you. -[258.86 --> 260.86] Thank you. -[260.86 --> 265.78] In your love to those around me. -[273.52 --> 277.86] Jesus, the name above every other name. -[280.14 --> 284.50] Jesus, the only one who could ever save. -[284.50 --> 314.48] Jesus, the only one who could ever save. -[314.50 --> 317.50] I would please stand and PF. -[317.54 --> 321.50] Please come to me with your love. -[321.50 --> 325.88] In your love to those around me. -[325.88 --> 336.36] And I will build my life upon your love -[336.36 --> 341.68] It is a firm foundation -[341.68 --> 349.70] And I will put my trust in you alone -[349.70 --> 355.10] And I will not be shaken -[355.10 --> 363.08] And I will build my life upon your love -[363.08 --> 368.32] It is a firm foundation -[368.32 --> 376.36] And I will put my trust in you alone -[376.36 --> 381.70] And I will not be shaken -[381.70 --> 387.20] Holy, there is no one like you -[387.20 --> 389.68] There is none beside you -[389.68 --> 395.04] Open up my eyes in wonder -[395.04 --> 398.84] And show me who you are -[398.84 --> 401.68] And fill me with your heart -[401.68 --> 405.54] And lead me in your love -[405.54 --> 409.66] To those around me -[409.66 --> 414.66] I will build my life upon your love -[414.66 --> 418.72] And submit myる life on my husband -[418.72 --> 422.66] I will not be shaken -[422.66 --> 423.42] And resume -[423.42 --> 423.76] My love -[423.76 --> 425.14] How will people -[425.14 --> 426.20] I will build my life on mine -[426.20 --> 426.50] And the information -[426.50 --> 428.44] And the information -[428.44 --> 431.14] And the information -[431.14 --> 432.06] I will be given you -[432.06 --> 432.64] And I will have a student -[432.64 --> 433.28] And the information -[433.28 --> 433.78] And what I will be� -[433.78 --> 434.44] And when I have, word -[434.44 --> 435.32] And the information -[435.32 --> 436.46] So, you know what would you -[436.46 --> 466.44] I'll see you next time. -[466.46 --> 496.44] I'll see you next time. -[496.44 --> 497.60] Good morning. -[500.02 --> 503.86] Welcome into our worship together this morning. -[504.34 --> 505.14] My name is Chris. -[505.40 --> 506.74] I'm one of the pastors here. -[507.08 --> 512.00] If you're visiting with us this morning, in person or online, we're super excited that -[512.00 --> 514.62] you are here and we'd love to connect with you. -[514.80 --> 518.42] And so at some point in your seats, there are Connect cards. -[518.56 --> 523.36] Feel free to fill one of those out and put it in the collection bag as it comes around, -[523.36 --> 527.04] or there's a QR code that you can scan and that will give you a digital form. -[527.14 --> 530.54] We'd love to hear from you, see how we can connect together. -[531.34 --> 539.12] As we worship our God on this beautiful Sunday morning, we come as people with all sorts of -[539.12 --> 543.08] different stories and different circumstances, different needs, different prayers, different -[543.08 --> 545.48] celebrations, different cries of the heart. -[545.48 --> 549.86] We come and we bring them all into the presence of our God together. -[550.66 --> 554.28] And so as you are able, and where you are, I'm going to invite you to stand. -[554.76 --> 556.66] We can receive God's greeting together. -[557.90 --> 563.94] After God's greeting, give you an opportunity just to welcome those around you into our worship -[563.94 --> 564.34] together. -[564.34 --> 568.26] Just a reminder, not everybody likes to be welcomed with a hug. -[569.36 --> 574.82] And so a fist bump or a nod of the head may be adequate or appropriate for some people. -[574.94 --> 578.68] Just, you know, discern the situation you find yourself in. -[579.56 --> 584.92] We gather together as God's people and so receive the greeting of our God. -[584.92 --> 593.88] grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, Son, and -[593.88 --> 597.24] our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[598.24 --> 598.70] Amen. -[614.92 --> 636.76] Good morning. -[637.10 --> 639.00] Welcome to worship this morning. -[639.00 --> 645.62] A.W. Tozer, in his book, The Pursuit of God, wrote this. -[646.52 --> 652.80] Has it ever occurred to you that 100 pianos, all tuned to the same tuning fork, are automatically -[652.80 --> 653.86] tuned to each other? -[654.44 --> 660.08] They are of one accord by being tuned not to each other, but to another standard to which -[660.08 --> 662.68] each one must individually bow. -[663.68 --> 668.98] After thinking on this this week, I realized that the truth is a tuned piano can quickly go -[668.98 --> 674.66] out of tune depending on its environment, where it has been, or how it has been used, and -[674.66 --> 676.52] needs to be retuned regularly. -[677.90 --> 679.46] Worship is like a tuning fork. -[680.74 --> 687.26] Worship is, coming to worship on Sundays is an opportunity for us to come back to who we -[687.26 --> 694.22] are in light of who God is, to lift our eyes higher, and to remind us who we are in God's -[694.22 --> 694.58] eyes. -[695.04 --> 697.94] So our call to worship this morning is Psalm 117. -[697.94 --> 700.30] Praise the Lord, all you nations. -[700.48 --> 702.12] Extol him, all you people. -[702.68 --> 707.06] For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. -[707.46 --> 708.34] Praise the Lord. -[708.72 --> 709.66] Let's worship together. -[709.66 --> 722.78] Come, now is the time to worship. -[722.78 --> 737.70] Come, now is the time to worship. -[739.54 --> 746.92] Come, now is the time to live your life. -[746.92 --> 753.60] Come, just as you are to worship. -[755.38 --> 762.80] Come, just as you love me for your love. -[766.38 --> 770.54] Make me every time you kiss your heart. -[770.54 --> 773.54] Make me every year of love. -[773.54 --> 778.16] Come, just as you are to worship. -[778.16 --> 790.84] Come, now is the time to worship. -[790.84 --> 799.76] Come, now is the time to live your life. -[799.76 --> 806.38] Come, just as you are to worship. -[808.38 --> 812.38] Come, just as you are to worship. -[812.38 --> 814.38] Come, just as you are to worship. -[814.38 --> 819.00] Come, just as you are to worship. -[819.00 --> 823.00] Come, just as you are to worship. -[823.00 --> 827.00] Come, just as you are to worship. -[827.00 --> 831.62] Come, just as you are to worship. -[831.62 --> 836.62] Come, just as you are to worship. -[836.62 --> 841.62] Come, just as you are to worship. -[841.62 --> 846.24] Come, just as you are to worship. -[846.30 --> 852.48] come, just as you are to worship. -[852.48 --> 861.52] Now, now is the time to worship -[861.52 --> 870.60] Now, now is the time to give your heart -[870.60 --> 877.52] Now, just as you are to worship -[877.52 --> 886.96] Now, just as you are before your love -[886.96 --> 887.96] Now -[907.52 --> 929.08] Who has held the oceans in its hands? -[929.08 --> 934.62] Who has covered every grain of sin? -[935.06 --> 940.30] Kings and nations trampled on His voice -[940.30 --> 946.84] All creation rises to His voice -[946.84 --> 954.32] Oh, now, now, sing me on His song -[954.32 --> 957.86] Come, let us know it -[957.86 --> 962.80] Behold on Him -[962.80 --> 964.90] God, we can't remember -[964.90 --> 969.84] Come, let us know it -[969.84 --> 986.16] Who has given counsel to the Lord -[986.16 --> 991.74] Who can question any of His words -[991.74 --> 997.30] Who can teach the one who knows all things -[997.30 --> 1003.30] Who can fathom all His wondrous feet -[1003.30 --> 1008.52] Oh, now, God -[1008.52 --> 1011.48] Seated on His throne -[1011.48 --> 1015.28] Come, let us adore Him -[1015.28 --> 1019.30] Behold on Him -[1019.82 --> 1022.30] Let Him compare -[1022.30 --> 1028.30] God, let us adore Him -[1028.30 --> 1030.30] Who has held the fields upon His hands -[1030.30 --> 1034.30] Bearing all the guilt of sinful men -[1034.30 --> 1036.30] God, eternal heart -[1036.30 --> 1037.30] Behold on Him -[1037.30 --> 1039.30] God, eternal heart -[1039.30 --> 1052.30] God, eternal heart -[1052.30 --> 1054.30] Humble to the grave -[1054.30 --> 1060.30] Jesus, Savior, risen now to Him -[1060.30 --> 1062.30] God, eternal heart -[1062.30 --> 1066.30] God, eternal heart -[1066.30 --> 1068.30] God, eternal heart -[1068.30 --> 1072.30] Come, let us adore Him -[1072.30 --> 1076.30] Behold on Him -[1076.30 --> 1078.30] God, eternal heart -[1078.30 --> 1080.30] Come, let us adore Him -[1080.30 --> 1090.30] God, eternal heart -[1090.30 --> 1092.30] You will be -[1092.30 --> 1094.30] Your glory -[1094.30 --> 1096.30] You will be -[1096.30 --> 1126.28] Thank you. -[1126.30 --> 1156.28] Thank you. -[1156.30 --> 1158.30] Thank you. -[1187.26 --> 1190.52] Please join me in our prayer of confession this morning. -[1190.52 --> 1192.52] Thank you. -[1193.22 --> 1203.88] Jesus, our Lord, you came to us humbly, born in a stable and later riding on a donkey toward your cruel death and sacrifice for us. -[1204.38 --> 1208.34] In perfect love, you showed us the way we should live. -[1208.34 --> 1210.98] Lord, we sing to you praise. -[1210.98 --> 1214.76] We cast our eyes on you to worship and adore you. -[1215.66 --> 1223.78] Lord, we confess that our vision wanders and is not always pure and is often stained with our own selfish desires. -[1225.14 --> 1229.06] Forgive us, Lord, when our eyes are not set on the things of your kingdom. -[1229.06 --> 1236.90] Forgive us, O Lord, when our mouths that seek to praise you often deny and defy you in what they say. -[1238.34 --> 1241.92] Renew in us an obedient spirit, we pray. -[1241.92 --> 1247.86] We come to you now, Lord, in a few moments of silent confession. -[1247.86 --> 1249.86] Amen. -[1249.86 --> 1250.86] Amen. -[1250.86 --> 1251.86] Amen. -[1251.86 --> 1252.86] Amen. -[1252.86 --> 1254.86] Amen. -[1254.86 --> 1255.86] Amen. -[1255.86 --> 1256.86] Amen. -[1284.86 --> 1285.36] Amen. -[1285.36 --> 1286.42] Amen. -[1286.42 --> 1287.42] Amen. -[1287.42 --> 1287.52] Amen. -[1287.52 --> 1289.20] Amen. -[1290.88 --> 1295.32] God, our one and only true hope, restore us. -[1296.14 --> 1298.26] Our times are in your hands, O God. -[1298.80 --> 1306.56] Let your face shine upon us as we pursue your will in our lives and save us through your unfailing love. -[1307.42 --> 1308.66] In your name we pray. -[1309.52 --> 1309.84] Amen. -[1309.84 --> 1310.00] Amen. -[1313.26 --> 1317.18] This next song has some actions, which I know some of the children know, -[1317.42 --> 1320.58] so if you'd like to follow along with that, that would be great. -[1320.68 --> 1321.90] And please stand as we sing. -[1321.90 --> 1351.88] Thank you. -[1351.90 --> 1381.88] Thank you. -[1381.90 --> 1383.90] Thank you. -[1383.90 --> 1385.90] Thank you. -[1385.90 --> 1387.90] Thank you. -[1387.90 --> 1389.90] Thank you. -[1389.90 --> 1391.90] Thank you. -[1391.90 --> 1393.90] Thank you. -[1393.90 --> 1395.90] Thank you. -[1395.90 --> 1397.90] Thank you. -[1397.90 --> 1399.90] Thank you. -[1399.90 --> 1401.90] Thank you. -[1401.90 --> 1403.90] Thank you. -[1403.90 --> 1405.90] Thank you. -[1405.90 --> 1407.90] Thank you. -[1407.90 --> 1409.90] Thank you. -[1409.90 --> 1411.90] Thank you. -[1411.90 --> 1413.90] Thank you. -[1413.90 --> 1415.90] Thank you. -[1415.90 --> 1417.90] Thank you. -[1417.90 --> 1419.90] Thank you. -[1419.90 --> 1421.90] Thank you. -[1421.90 --> 1423.90] Thank you. -[1423.90 --> 1425.90] Thank you. -[1425.90 --> 1427.90] Thank you. -[1427.90 --> 1429.90] Thank you. -[1429.90 --> 1431.90] Thank you. -[1431.90 --> 1433.90] Thank you. -[1433.90 --> 1435.90] Thank you. -[1435.90 --> 1437.90] Thank you. -[1437.90 --> 1439.90] Thank you. -[1439.90 --> 1441.90] Thank you. -[1441.90 --> 1443.90] Thank you. -[1443.90 --> 1445.90] Thank you. -[1445.90 --> 1447.90] Thank you. -[1447.90 --> 1449.90] Thank you. -[1449.90 --> 1451.90] Thank you. -[1451.90 --> 1457.90] Thank you. -[1457.90 --> 1459.90] Thank you. -[1459.90 --> 1461.90] Thank you. -[1465.90 --> 1467.90] Thank you. -[1467.90 --> 1474.90] Be great famed! -[1484.98 --> 1491.92] Be great famed! -[1497.90 --> 1500.14] I am -[1500.14 --> 1503.26] You are stronger -[1503.26 --> 1505.84] You are stronger -[1505.84 --> 1508.10] Sin is broken -[1508.10 --> 1510.98] You have saved me -[1510.98 --> 1513.28] It is risen -[1513.28 --> 1515.62] Christ is risen -[1515.62 --> 1520.74] Jesus you are Lord of all -[1520.74 --> 1522.90] You are stronger -[1522.90 --> 1525.00] You are stronger -[1525.00 --> 1527.22] Sin is broken -[1527.22 --> 1529.74] You have saved me -[1529.74 --> 1532.00] It is risen -[1532.00 --> 1534.18] Christ is risen -[1534.18 --> 1540.00] Jesus you are Lord of all -[1557.22 --> 1568.74] This is here I breathe -[1568.74 --> 1575.74] This is here I breathe -[1575.74 --> 1580.70] Your holy presence -[1580.70 --> 1582.22] This is here I am -[1582.22 --> 1595.22] This is my daily prayer -[1595.22 --> 1601.18] This is my daily prayer -[1601.18 --> 1602.74] Thee Aha! -[1602.74 --> 1607.02] Who away from God -[1607.02 --> 1614.28] So I'm glad to be here -[1614.28 --> 1623.90] And I'm just below you -[1623.90 --> 1635.02] And I'm just below you -[1635.02 --> 1644.78] This is the air I breathe -[1644.78 --> 1651.26] This is the air I breathe -[1651.26 --> 1657.26] Your holy presence -[1657.26 --> 1662.58] I'm living in me -[1662.58 --> 1670.34] This is my daily breath -[1670.34 --> 1676.34] This is my daily breath -[1676.34 --> 1682.10] I'm living in me -[1682.10 --> 1686.10] So I'm living in me -[1686.10 --> 1695.86] And I'm just below you -[1695.86 --> 1705.62] And I'm just below you -[1705.62 --> 1709.62] And I'm just below you -[1709.62 --> 1721.38] And I'm just below you -[1721.38 --> 1723.38] And I'm just below you -[1723.38 --> 1729.38] And I'm just below you -[1729.38 --> 1739.14] And I'm just below you -[1739.14 --> 1742.90] You are the air I breathe -[1742.90 --> 1750.90] You are the air I breathe -[1750.90 --> 1754.66] And I'm just below you -[1754.66 --> 1776.34] Good morning -[1776.34 --> 1780.96] Good morning -[1780.96 --> 1782.14] My name is Brenda -[1782.14 --> 1783.08] And I'm a deacon here -[1783.08 --> 1783.64] At Emanuel -[1783.64 --> 1785.30] We continue our worship -[1785.30 --> 1786.68] With the giving of our gifts -[1786.68 --> 1788.14] To the budget -[1788.14 --> 1789.66] Which is for the -[1789.66 --> 1790.70] It covers the administration -[1790.70 --> 1791.34] Of the church -[1791.34 --> 1792.08] And its ministries -[1792.08 --> 1793.66] And our special offering today -[1793.66 --> 1794.98] Is for Advocate -[1794.98 --> 1796.98] Life and Education Services -[1796.98 --> 1798.94] Advocate exists -[1798.94 --> 1800.92] To promote the inherent worth -[1800.92 --> 1801.50] And dignity -[1801.50 --> 1803.08] Of every human being -[1803.08 --> 1805.10] They strive for a society -[1805.10 --> 1806.56] In which every human life -[1806.56 --> 1807.22] Is protected -[1807.22 --> 1808.18] Respected -[1808.18 --> 1808.92] And valued -[1808.92 --> 1809.96] From conception -[1809.96 --> 1811.10] Until natural death -[1811.10 --> 1812.14] They believe -[1812.14 --> 1813.24] That all human beings -[1813.24 --> 1814.42] Have God-given value -[1814.42 --> 1815.02] And are worthy -[1815.02 --> 1816.66] Of respect and protection -[1816.66 --> 1818.18] Regardless of their age -[1818.18 --> 1819.58] Place of residence -[1819.58 --> 1820.70] Stage of development -[1820.70 --> 1821.64] State of health -[1821.64 --> 1822.92] Or level of ability -[1822.92 --> 1825.06] Advocate brings hope -[1825.06 --> 1826.12] To women and families -[1826.12 --> 1827.38] Through pregnancy counseling -[1827.38 --> 1828.10] And resources -[1828.10 --> 1829.52] Baby supplies -[1829.52 --> 1830.76] Postpartum support -[1830.76 --> 1832.06] Post-abortion care -[1832.06 --> 1833.80] And community education -[1833.80 --> 1835.12] They believe -[1835.12 --> 1836.22] Everyone has value -[1836.22 --> 1838.00] And they are here to help -[1838.00 --> 1839.64] Next week's offering -[1839.64 --> 1841.18] Is for the gateway of hope -[1841.18 --> 1842.34] Let us give -[1842.34 --> 1843.90] As the Lord has blessed us -[1851.64 --> 1864.26] So we have trials -[1864.26 --> 1866.24] And condition -[1866.24 --> 1872.74] Everybody knows our great -[1872.74 --> 1874.68] Isolation -[1874.68 --> 1881.74] Lay our burdens down -[1881.74 --> 1885.88] Lay our burdens down -[1885.88 --> 1889.88] Never friendly heaven Jesus -[1889.88 --> 1892.24] He's the worst one -[1892.24 --> 1894.18] Seeds are wrong -[1894.18 --> 1896.38] Bless Him, Christ, Lord -[1896.38 --> 1898.42] Let He rise up -[1898.42 --> 1901.06] Forever and ever -[1901.06 --> 1903.06] His heart is alone -[1903.06 --> 1912.74] Everybody has fears -[1912.74 --> 1914.74] Everybody has worries -[1914.74 --> 1920.60] Everybody has sorrow -[1920.60 --> 1923.20] Devastation -[1923.20 --> 1929.88] Lay our burdens down -[1929.88 --> 1933.96] Lay our burdens down -[1933.96 --> 1938.04] Let our friends live down in Jesus -[1938.04 --> 1939.56] He's the worst one -[1939.56 --> 1941.56] Seeds are wrong -[1941.56 --> 1945.56] Every grace of every rising -[1945.56 --> 1947.56] Forever and ever -[1947.56 --> 1951.56] His heart is alone -[1951.56 --> 1957.24] Lord, Lord, He's faithful -[1957.24 --> 1961.24] He feels like a heart like a -[1961.24 --> 1963.24] Running over and ever -[1963.24 --> 1964.68] Let our betrayal -[1964.68 --> 1966.92] For His faithful -[1966.92 --> 1968.68] Now He has been -[1968.68 --> 1970.92] And over and over -[1970.92 --> 1972.92] Lord, let our betrayal -[1972.92 --> 1974.92] For His faithful -[1974.92 --> 1976.98] He feels like a -[1976.98 --> 1978.92] Lord, let our betrayal -[1978.92 --> 1982.92] For His faithful -[1982.92 --> 1984.84] Now He will -[1984.84 --> 1986.92] And over and over -[1986.92 --> 1989.86] And ab� -[1989.86 --> 1990.36] Oh, Lord, let our знаем -[1990.36 --> 1991.66] We have -[1991.70 --> 1992.60] jestem -[1992.60 --> 1996.32] Be -[1996.60 --> 1997.06] ese -[1997.06 --> 1998.30] Rcellence -[1998.30 --> 1998.60] Bising -[1998.60 --> 1999.60] rix -[1999.60 --> 2005.48] His heart is rising, and forever and ever His heart is come. -[2005.86 --> 2013.30] The King, the King and the King, Jesus, LaGreed With The New Shore. -[2013.42 --> 2022.00] Mercy, graceful, and duty rising, and forever and ever His heart is come. -[2022.50 --> 2026.54] Forever and ever His heart is come. -[2029.60 --> 2044.18] All right. I would love if there's any kids here this morning aged three through kindergarten, -[2045.08 --> 2049.96] going into kindergarten or having just finished kindergarten, that is up to your parents to -[2049.96 --> 2056.36] decide. But we want you to come up to the front. We're going to stand together. We're going to -[2056.36 --> 2062.40] give you a little blessing, and then you're going to be on your way. I know that you've got some -[2062.40 --> 2068.78] teachers who are excited to lead you in some children's worship time this morning. All right, -[2068.82 --> 2073.00] so we're a small group up here this morning, so that means all y'all got to speak extra loud, -[2073.06 --> 2081.02] all right? Can you stand with us too? That's right. Okay, so we're going to hold our hands up, -[2081.02 --> 2085.00] and we're going to say, the Lord be with you, and then they're going to say, and also with you, -[2085.00 --> 2094.06] back to us. Ready? Really loud. Ready? The Lord be with you. And also with you. Oh, excellent on both sides. Good job. -[2094.06 --> 2095.06] Thank you. -[2095.06 --> 2096.06] Thank you. -[2115.00 --> 2126.60] Good morning. My name is Rob. I'm a member here, and I'd like to lead you in a time of family prayer. -[2126.60 --> 2136.96] A few weeks ago, we started the Faith Hero series, and we opened with the opening verses of Hebrews 11, -[2137.38 --> 2144.52] which is a chapter that paints such great word pictures. Now, faith is confidence in what we hope -[2144.52 --> 2151.10] for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for. -[2151.10 --> 2159.86] What our eyes see or don't see is a great theme that we see throughout the Bible, and I'd like to -[2159.86 --> 2166.40] infuse some of that theme into our prayer this morning. And to help us do that, I'd like to just -[2166.40 --> 2172.96] start with a few passages, and let's just tuck those back away in the back of our minds and reflect on -[2172.96 --> 2176.60] them. The first one is from Ephesians chapter 1. -[2176.60 --> 2182.60] I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope -[2182.60 --> 2188.82] to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, -[2189.12 --> 2196.74] and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That's a really complicated verse and sentence. -[2197.26 --> 2200.92] There are three things in there that we can distill it down to. Let me read it again. -[2200.92 --> 2207.86] I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you, one, may know the hope to which -[2207.86 --> 2214.82] he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably -[2214.82 --> 2225.14] great power for us who believe. 2 Corinthians 4. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is -[2225.14 --> 2230.24] unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. -[2230.92 --> 2237.96] Then in Acts chapter 26, Paul is recounting what happened on the road to Damascus, where God says, -[2238.46 --> 2244.86] I will rescue you from your own people and from the Gentiles. I'm sending you to them to open their eyes. -[2246.32 --> 2252.06] Psalm 119, open my eyes that I may see the wonderful things in your law. -[2253.42 --> 2258.76] There's lots. There's many more. Some may come to mind for you as well. -[2258.76 --> 2265.92] I'd actually like to close our time of prayer with one more, and that's from the book of 2 Kings, -[2266.86 --> 2273.50] which what was happening there was Elisha and the Israelites were under military threat from the Arameans, -[2273.72 --> 2280.18] and they were about to get squashed. Now, I'm fairly certain that we probably don't have Arameans -[2280.18 --> 2285.36] surrounding the sanctuary. If there are, then that means the ushers aren't doing their job. -[2286.92 --> 2293.32] But I think most of us or all of us probably have figurative Arameans surrounding us. -[2296.60 --> 2303.64] Before we pray as well, I'd like to go through some of the prayer concerns that were in the bulletin, -[2303.64 --> 2311.82] or some updates on that. And first off, we know that Amy Bongers will be needing a second surgery to her eyes. -[2312.44 --> 2318.90] We pray that that will go well and that she will have the patience to be able to deal with that. -[2319.70 --> 2326.10] We also think of the Roersma family as Mike's mom is nearing the end of her life, -[2326.10 --> 2333.22] and we pray for the family as they gather at the hospital and that you would provide a peace for the family -[2333.22 --> 2336.92] and that the hope of Jesus would be known and experienced. -[2337.60 --> 2345.80] We also think of the fire near Osoyos, and we know now that the town is under evacuation -[2345.80 --> 2349.74] and the turmoil and upheaval that that has. -[2349.74 --> 2355.82] We have members here who have property around there, people camping. -[2356.92 --> 2359.26] What a challenge that that is. -[2360.36 --> 2364.68] As well, in the bulletin, we've read about Amy Cron. -[2364.86 --> 2371.50] We pray for her treatments and also for Dan Howling's father and his recovery. -[2372.40 --> 2376.82] And we've also been praying for Louise Condos' family -[2376.82 --> 2380.80] and the recoveries for Ellen White and Mahré. -[2382.24 --> 2383.64] Let's pray together. -[2385.38 --> 2388.00] We praise you, God, for creating this universe, -[2388.50 --> 2390.42] that it was formed at your command, -[2390.78 --> 2394.36] so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. -[2395.30 --> 2398.66] Even with our powerful telescopes and space voyages, -[2398.90 --> 2403.38] humanity has not even scratched the surface of what can be seen. -[2403.38 --> 2406.98] All creation lights up with a reflection of its maker. -[2407.86 --> 2411.88] At the other end of the spectrum, we think of the ministry of advocate, -[2412.44 --> 2415.42] who draw our attention to the tiny unborn child, -[2415.82 --> 2418.52] not literally seen, but very real. -[2419.88 --> 2421.58] Father, we praise you for your law. -[2421.78 --> 2424.32] Your word guides us in the way that we should go. -[2425.36 --> 2427.22] Yet, we fall short. -[2428.20 --> 2429.90] Firstly, we keep our eyes closed. -[2429.90 --> 2433.64] At times, it's easier to close our eyes to what's going on around us. -[2434.26 --> 2437.84] At times, we're overwhelmed with the brokenness in the world around us. -[2439.00 --> 2442.04] Forgive us for willingly shutting out what we know is right -[2442.04 --> 2443.98] and from doing what is good. -[2445.42 --> 2448.80] Secondly, we see, but we don't live by your standards. -[2449.82 --> 2452.52] At times, it's easier just to stay where we're at. -[2453.24 --> 2455.46] You direct us to live our lives of faith, -[2455.66 --> 2458.56] but it can be more comfortable just to let things slide. -[2458.56 --> 2463.34] Forgive us for failing to act and doing what we know is right. -[2464.52 --> 2466.30] Thirdly, we look elsewhere. -[2466.96 --> 2469.24] Forgive us when we choose to do what is wrong. -[2469.72 --> 2474.46] Forgive us when we choose ourselves or we choose temporal things above you. -[2475.32 --> 2479.38] We pray, Lord, that your spirit would flood us to open our eyes, -[2479.86 --> 2482.82] help us to be and do what you have planned for us, -[2482.92 --> 2485.48] and help us to stop looking elsewhere. -[2485.48 --> 2491.82] We come to you with thanks this morning for the great gifts that our spiritual eyes can see. -[2492.82 --> 2495.44] We thank you for the hope to which you call us, -[2495.76 --> 2497.58] the riches of your glorious inheritance, -[2498.00 --> 2500.52] and the great power for us who believe. -[2501.62 --> 2504.76] All these can help us not just cope with our daily lives, -[2505.12 --> 2507.58] but help us to thrive in our service to you. -[2507.58 --> 2510.12] We thank you for this church. -[2510.36 --> 2513.50] Although we fail, we are grateful for the good things, -[2513.92 --> 2517.98] for the cloud of witnesses that testify to your faithfulness and encourage us. -[2518.76 --> 2520.34] Thank you for the church worldwide, -[2520.84 --> 2524.18] with so many people living out their faith in so many ways, -[2524.26 --> 2526.34] so many places, so many faces. -[2527.30 --> 2529.58] Thank you for the church of all ages, -[2530.18 --> 2533.40] that cloud of witnesses that goes before us -[2533.40 --> 2535.62] and that will undoubtedly follow us. -[2535.62 --> 2539.68] Father, we pray for the faces of our own church. -[2540.22 --> 2542.58] We think of Amy needing surgery, -[2542.92 --> 2545.20] and Amy Cron as well. -[2545.46 --> 2548.48] We think of the Roersma family as they're gathered just up the hill. -[2549.06 --> 2553.92] Lord, bless their time together as they expect their mother to pass away. -[2554.82 --> 2558.92] Father, we pray for those in Osoyos who need to make decisions -[2558.92 --> 2563.74] and leave their homes and deal with all the upheaval with that. -[2564.70 --> 2568.74] We pray for Dan Howling's father and Louise Condos' family. -[2569.22 --> 2574.04] Lord, we thank you for the recoveries for Ellen and for Mahre. -[2574.04 --> 2580.38] We pray for the things that don't make it into the bulletin -[2580.38 --> 2584.04] or the things that used to be in the bulletin but have not been forgotten, -[2584.50 --> 2588.84] for physical challenges, aging challenges, housing challenges, -[2589.20 --> 2593.08] the challenges of raising children or broken relationships. -[2593.56 --> 2596.74] Give us eyes to see that our afflictions are temporary -[2596.74 --> 2601.96] and don't compare with the glory that is awaiting us. -[2602.62 --> 2604.20] We pray again for our advocate, -[2604.48 --> 2608.60] that they may inspire women and families to see your goodness -[2608.60 --> 2609.90] and your graciousness. -[2610.98 --> 2612.90] We thank you for the rain a week ago. -[2613.28 --> 2616.32] We pray that this summer season may recharge us from our labors, -[2616.50 --> 2620.38] and when we do things and experience things that we might not do otherwise, -[2620.38 --> 2625.16] that this might lead us to a new perspective and a new focus for the year ahead. -[2626.78 --> 2629.30] Father, we pray for Marg on Township Council. -[2630.04 --> 2632.16] Thank you that she can serve in this role. -[2632.36 --> 2635.34] We pray that you give her the wisdom and the insight -[2635.34 --> 2637.62] to serve in such a unique way. -[2638.66 --> 2640.58] We pray for the council of this church, -[2640.94 --> 2644.50] for the various leaders, and for the many, many volunteers. -[2645.60 --> 2647.48] Give them the hope to which you call them, -[2647.86 --> 2649.94] the richness of your glorious inheritance. -[2650.38 --> 2652.66] And the great power for those who believe. -[2654.02 --> 2656.08] We pray for our pastors and staff. -[2656.24 --> 2657.32] Give them eyes to see. -[2658.00 --> 2661.56] May the upcoming Roman series continue to challenge us -[2661.56 --> 2663.16] and open the eyes of our hearts. -[2664.36 --> 2665.90] Bless these faith heroes' messages, -[2666.64 --> 2669.18] that we may not just see them, like Joseph, -[2669.18 --> 2670.84] as larger than life, -[2671.22 --> 2673.54] but an encouragement for our life. -[2674.76 --> 2675.84] In your name we pray. -[2676.30 --> 2676.60] Amen. -[2678.46 --> 2679.82] Back to two kings. -[2681.34 --> 2683.24] So the Arameans are threatening. -[2685.20 --> 2686.30] And this is about, -[2686.66 --> 2690.70] this starts with the servant of the prophet Elisha. -[2691.66 --> 2693.78] When the servant of the man of God got up -[2693.78 --> 2695.30] and went out early the next morning, -[2695.62 --> 2699.56] an army with horses and chariots had surrounded the city. -[2699.56 --> 2703.02] Oh no, my lord, what shall we do? -[2703.02 --> 2704.32] The servant asked. -[2706.32 --> 2708.78] Don't be afraid, the prophet answered. -[2709.26 --> 2713.46] Those who are with us are more than those who are with them. -[2713.46 --> 2715.48] And Elisha prayed. -[2716.68 --> 2719.78] Open his eyes, Lord, so that he may see. -[2719.78 --> 2723.68] Then the Lord opened the servant's eyes, -[2723.76 --> 2728.94] and he looked, and he saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire -[2728.94 --> 2731.16] all around Elisha. -[2731.16 --> 2757.06] As Rob indicated, we're going to continue our series looking at faith heroes, -[2757.06 --> 2761.02] a list generated from Hebrews 11, -[2761.52 --> 2762.70] but stories throughout the Bible. -[2762.80 --> 2765.16] This morning, Amara is going to come up -[2765.16 --> 2769.50] and read for us the text from Genesis 50. -[2770.16 --> 2772.96] We're going to read verse 15 through 26. -[2773.48 --> 2777.00] And so if you have a Bible either in your hands or on your phone, -[2777.10 --> 2778.98] I encourage you to have that in front of you -[2778.98 --> 2782.96] while Amara reads it and also for after. -[2782.96 --> 2788.44] When Jesus' brothers saw that their father was dead, -[2788.66 --> 2789.08] they said, -[2789.54 --> 2791.74] What if Joseph holds a grudge against us -[2791.74 --> 2794.00] and pays us back for all the wrongs we did to him? -[2794.34 --> 2796.24] So they sent word to Joseph, saying, -[2796.52 --> 2798.80] Your father left these instructions before he died. -[2799.20 --> 2800.96] This is what you are to say to Joseph. -[2801.56 --> 2804.18] I ask you to forgive your brothers -[2804.18 --> 2807.52] the sins and the wrongs they committed in treating you so badly. -[2807.52 --> 2813.02] Now please forgive the sins of the servant of the God of your father. -[2813.72 --> 2816.86] When the message came to him, Joseph wept. -[2817.50 --> 2821.74] His brothers then came and threw themselves down before him. -[2822.02 --> 2823.68] We are your slaves, they said. -[2824.08 --> 2825.16] But Joseph said, -[2825.46 --> 2826.30] Do not be afraid. -[2826.70 --> 2828.30] I am in the place of God. -[2828.54 --> 2829.94] You intended to harm me, -[2830.02 --> 2831.68] but God intended it for good -[2831.68 --> 2835.52] to accomplish what is now being done. -[2835.52 --> 2838.14] The saving of many lives. -[2838.62 --> 2840.02] So then, don't be afraid. -[2840.52 --> 2843.26] I will provide for you and your children. -[2843.94 --> 2847.04] And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them. -[2848.80 --> 2853.38] Joseph stayed in Egypt along with all of his father's family. -[2854.02 --> 2856.12] He lives 110 years -[2856.12 --> 2859.24] and saw the third generation of Ephraim's children, -[2859.52 --> 2862.38] also the children of Machir, son of Manasseh, -[2862.70 --> 2864.62] were placed at birth on Joseph's knee. -[2864.62 --> 2868.26] Then Joseph said to his brothers, -[2868.58 --> 2869.50] I am about to die, -[2869.80 --> 2871.62] but God will surely come to your aid -[2871.62 --> 2875.06] and take you up and out of this land -[2875.06 --> 2877.36] to the land he promised on oath -[2877.36 --> 2879.62] to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. -[2880.56 --> 2884.04] And Joseph made the Israelites swear on oath -[2884.04 --> 2885.62] and said, -[2886.50 --> 2888.08] God will surely come to your aid -[2888.08 --> 2891.64] and then you must carry my bones up from this place. -[2891.64 --> 2895.00] So Joseph died at an age of 110 -[2895.00 --> 2897.50] and after they embalmed him, -[2897.92 --> 2899.96] he was placed in a coffin in Egypt. -[2899.96 --> 2909.40] Thanks, Amara. -[2909.40 --> 2909.50] Thanks, Amara. -[2914.00 --> 2919.10] As we have been looking at faith heroes -[2919.10 --> 2924.92] and looking at characters and stories in the Bible -[2924.92 --> 2927.64] that may be familiar to you, -[2927.64 --> 2929.50] may not be familiar to you, -[2930.46 --> 2931.78] we have been doing this -[2931.78 --> 2935.82] as a way of trying to encourage each other -[2935.82 --> 2937.28] and to be encouraged -[2937.28 --> 2940.84] as we see God at work in the world -[2940.84 --> 2944.58] through sometimes extraordinary people, -[2944.80 --> 2947.92] but more often than not, ordinary people. -[2947.92 --> 2950.72] And we've been holding those stories up -[2950.72 --> 2953.40] alongside of some of our own stories -[2953.40 --> 2955.60] and some of the stories of people -[2955.60 --> 2958.72] that have impacted our lives of faith. -[2960.30 --> 2961.82] To that end, at the very beginning -[2961.82 --> 2963.34] of this series of this summer, -[2963.48 --> 2964.30] and if you weren't here, -[2964.40 --> 2965.62] you can be forgiven for this, -[2965.88 --> 2967.12] but I did say, -[2967.36 --> 2971.30] if you have seen God at work in your life -[2971.30 --> 2973.32] or if you have a story -[2973.32 --> 2974.62] that you would like to share, -[2974.94 --> 2976.06] we would love to hear that. -[2976.06 --> 2978.60] And, strangely enough, -[2979.02 --> 2980.10] no one's called me, -[2981.00 --> 2981.94] no one's emailed me, -[2982.00 --> 2982.86] no one's reached out, -[2983.10 --> 2983.98] and here's what I know. -[2985.06 --> 2986.68] Some of y'all have seen God at work -[2986.68 --> 2987.62] in this last week, -[2988.84 --> 2992.66] let alone in these last number of weeks or months. -[2993.38 --> 2994.52] And we want to celebrate that, -[2994.58 --> 2995.18] we want to hear that. -[2995.26 --> 2999.64] And so, if you would like to share with us something, -[2999.82 --> 3001.50] please grab me after the service, -[3001.98 --> 3002.82] touch base with me, -[3002.88 --> 3004.88] and we will make it happen. -[3006.06 --> 3008.52] Now, the story of Joseph -[3008.52 --> 3013.52] is a beautiful and, I think anyway, -[3013.74 --> 3015.50] compelling story -[3015.50 --> 3018.30] of who God is -[3018.30 --> 3021.02] and of one man's response -[3021.02 --> 3022.76] and the impact that that has had -[3022.76 --> 3024.04] on the people around him. -[3025.10 --> 3027.62] The big idea for Joseph -[3027.62 --> 3028.94] and for us this morning -[3028.94 --> 3032.70] is to see how, -[3033.00 --> 3034.52] in the Joseph story, -[3034.68 --> 3036.12] we learn about -[3036.12 --> 3039.60] the security of God's sovereignty -[3039.60 --> 3043.72] and the power of God's providence -[3043.72 --> 3046.46] and how those connect -[3046.46 --> 3048.30] to your everyday life. -[3049.30 --> 3051.12] So, what I hope you'll see this morning -[3051.12 --> 3052.28] is that the Joseph story -[3052.28 --> 3054.94] is about the security of God's sovereignty -[3054.94 --> 3057.74] and the power of God's providence -[3057.74 --> 3059.84] for your everyday life. -[3060.46 --> 3062.68] Now, as I stand here this morning, -[3062.80 --> 3064.96] I know that those might be -[3064.96 --> 3067.34] sort of $5 theological words, -[3067.62 --> 3069.12] sovereignty and providence, -[3069.62 --> 3071.54] and probably not words you use -[3071.54 --> 3072.60] in your ordinary life, -[3073.22 --> 3076.44] unless you're a nerd like me. -[3076.44 --> 3079.84] And so, I just want to take a minute -[3079.84 --> 3083.30] and define our terms, right? -[3083.40 --> 3085.64] What is God's sovereignty? -[3086.14 --> 3087.16] What does that refer to? -[3087.82 --> 3088.92] And then quickly also, -[3089.08 --> 3090.28] what is providence? -[3091.18 --> 3093.44] Now, simply put, sovereignty, -[3093.98 --> 3095.88] God's sovereignty means -[3095.88 --> 3098.40] God's right to rule. -[3099.74 --> 3101.46] God's right to rule. -[3102.40 --> 3103.68] So, when you read your Bible -[3103.68 --> 3107.06] and you see the name God Almighty -[3107.06 --> 3108.74] or the Lord Almighty, -[3109.12 --> 3110.50] that's translating -[3110.50 --> 3114.12] a Hebrew word pair named for God -[3114.12 --> 3115.86] that is El in Hebrew, -[3116.00 --> 3117.04] which is a word for God, -[3117.18 --> 3118.02] and Shaddai. -[3118.84 --> 3120.04] El Shaddai. -[3120.82 --> 3122.30] Shaddai is the name -[3122.30 --> 3124.20] by which God is primarily known -[3124.20 --> 3126.26] before He gives His covenant name -[3126.26 --> 3127.64] to His people, Yahweh. -[3128.62 --> 3130.70] Shaddai is sometimes translated -[3130.70 --> 3133.60] as sovereign or ruler. -[3135.32 --> 3136.68] In what became -[3136.68 --> 3139.86] the sort of first authorized translation -[3139.86 --> 3141.34] of the Bible, -[3141.64 --> 3143.32] which is the Latin Vulgate, -[3143.48 --> 3144.68] which was written by Jerome -[3144.68 --> 3146.00] in the fourth century, -[3146.42 --> 3147.36] translated by Jerome -[3147.36 --> 3148.26] in the fourth century, -[3149.22 --> 3151.00] Shaddai is translated -[3151.00 --> 3152.68] into the Latin word -[3152.68 --> 3154.08] omnipotence, -[3155.08 --> 3156.72] which you might hear in that, -[3156.82 --> 3158.80] the English word omnipotence, -[3158.80 --> 3160.46] which is the word -[3160.46 --> 3162.60] that we use for all-powerful. -[3165.82 --> 3167.34] There's a theologian -[3167.34 --> 3170.02] that I really appreciate, -[3170.02 --> 3172.52] and his work on this -[3172.52 --> 3173.88] is really clear, I think. -[3174.14 --> 3175.36] His name is Herman Bavinck. -[3175.42 --> 3176.02] He's a Dutch theologian -[3176.62 --> 3178.26] from the late 19th, -[3178.26 --> 3179.16] early 20th century. -[3180.14 --> 3181.70] He writes this, -[3181.70 --> 3184.96] God is the creator -[3184.96 --> 3186.52] and therefore owner, -[3186.96 --> 3187.58] possessor, -[3187.72 --> 3189.90] and Lord of all things. -[3191.08 --> 3191.80] Apart from Him, -[3191.88 --> 3192.80] there is no existence -[3192.80 --> 3193.58] or ownership. -[3193.94 --> 3196.94] He alone has absolute authority. -[3197.58 --> 3199.12] Always and everywhere, -[3199.66 --> 3201.62] His will decides. -[3204.00 --> 3205.14] In short, -[3206.22 --> 3207.32] God's sovereignty -[3207.32 --> 3209.34] is His reign -[3209.34 --> 3210.88] over all the world -[3210.88 --> 3212.86] as creator king. -[3214.48 --> 3215.96] And with eyes to see, -[3216.12 --> 3216.74] you can see -[3216.74 --> 3218.22] how this shows up -[3218.22 --> 3219.60] in the story of Joseph -[3219.60 --> 3220.56] over and over -[3220.56 --> 3221.40] and over again. -[3222.56 --> 3222.76] Right? -[3222.84 --> 3223.86] Before anything -[3223.86 --> 3225.30] truly bad -[3225.30 --> 3226.18] befalls him, -[3226.26 --> 3228.30] back in Genesis 37, -[3228.50 --> 3229.46] where Joseph's story -[3229.46 --> 3230.44] starts, -[3232.02 --> 3233.28] Joseph has -[3233.28 --> 3234.38] a dream -[3234.38 --> 3236.34] that one day -[3236.34 --> 3237.14] he will be -[3237.14 --> 3238.16] a great ruler -[3238.16 --> 3239.48] and all people -[3239.48 --> 3240.72] will bow down -[3240.72 --> 3241.10] to him. -[3242.74 --> 3244.16] In the first dream, -[3244.44 --> 3245.70] Joseph and his brothers -[3245.70 --> 3247.02] are out in the field -[3247.02 --> 3248.26] binding up sheaves -[3248.26 --> 3248.82] of wheat. -[3250.12 --> 3250.26] Right? -[3250.36 --> 3251.22] Sheaves of grain. -[3251.90 --> 3253.08] And then all of a sudden, -[3253.26 --> 3254.60] Joseph's sheaf -[3254.60 --> 3255.72] stands up -[3255.72 --> 3256.76] in front of the brothers' -[3256.76 --> 3257.64] sheaves -[3257.64 --> 3258.60] and their sheaves -[3258.60 --> 3259.74] start bowing down -[3259.74 --> 3260.18] to him. -[3261.74 --> 3262.76] Now you can imagine, -[3262.88 --> 3263.14] Joseph, -[3263.36 --> 3264.08] one of the younger -[3264.08 --> 3265.48] of this family, -[3265.70 --> 3266.76] and his brothers -[3266.76 --> 3267.72] all bowing down -[3267.72 --> 3267.98] to him, -[3268.04 --> 3268.76] they don't take -[3268.76 --> 3269.42] that well. -[3270.64 --> 3271.76] He has another dream. -[3272.50 --> 3273.22] This time, -[3273.62 --> 3274.82] the sun and the moon -[3274.82 --> 3275.82] and the stars -[3275.82 --> 3278.04] are all bowing down -[3278.04 --> 3278.96] to Joseph. -[3280.10 --> 3280.80] Now this is usually -[3280.80 --> 3281.54] interpreted to mean -[3281.54 --> 3283.12] that Jacob and Rachel, -[3283.24 --> 3283.90] his parents, -[3284.12 --> 3285.32] and all of his brothers -[3285.32 --> 3287.20] would bow to him -[3287.20 --> 3289.18] at some point -[3289.18 --> 3291.08] in their future. -[3291.40 --> 3292.66] Joseph's dreams -[3292.66 --> 3294.10] are a prediction -[3294.10 --> 3295.76] of what is to come -[3295.76 --> 3296.80] of the future -[3296.80 --> 3298.36] and his dreams -[3298.36 --> 3299.36] are only, -[3299.84 --> 3301.06] his dreams -[3301.06 --> 3301.82] as a prediction -[3301.82 --> 3302.68] of the future -[3302.68 --> 3304.62] is only possible -[3304.62 --> 3307.46] if God is sovereign. -[3308.36 --> 3308.86] Right? -[3308.92 --> 3309.58] That the future -[3309.58 --> 3310.40] is fixed -[3310.40 --> 3311.88] in the hands of God -[3311.88 --> 3313.50] is only possible -[3313.50 --> 3315.70] if he is sovereign. -[3316.24 --> 3317.34] And that gets -[3317.34 --> 3318.28] his story started. -[3319.12 --> 3320.36] And we don't exactly know -[3320.36 --> 3321.50] what Joseph's attitude -[3321.50 --> 3322.60] was like -[3322.60 --> 3323.46] when he went through -[3323.46 --> 3324.88] everything that happened -[3324.88 --> 3325.30] to him. -[3325.94 --> 3327.08] But we do know -[3327.08 --> 3329.18] that in every circumstance, -[3329.46 --> 3330.32] no matter what it was, -[3330.44 --> 3332.90] he tries to be faithful -[3332.90 --> 3334.94] and obedient to God -[3334.94 --> 3336.56] and his will for living. -[3337.74 --> 3338.60] And so his brothers -[3338.60 --> 3340.78] don't like this arrogant -[3340.78 --> 3342.06] young man in their midst -[3342.06 --> 3343.12] and so they plot -[3343.12 --> 3343.88] to kill him. -[3344.36 --> 3345.30] Instead of killing him, -[3345.38 --> 3346.38] they beat him badly -[3346.38 --> 3347.22] and they throw him -[3347.22 --> 3347.74] in a well. -[3347.90 --> 3349.28] They sell him into slavery -[3349.28 --> 3350.52] to some Midianites -[3350.52 --> 3351.48] or some Ishmaelites -[3351.48 --> 3352.50] and he ends up -[3352.50 --> 3354.10] in Egypt -[3354.10 --> 3355.20] where he's sold -[3355.20 --> 3356.06] into the house -[3356.06 --> 3357.10] of Potiphar -[3357.10 --> 3359.00] who's an Egyptian official. -[3360.52 --> 3361.42] Potiphar's wife -[3361.42 --> 3364.76] accuses Joseph of rape -[3364.76 --> 3365.88] after she tries -[3365.88 --> 3367.02] to sleep with him. -[3367.96 --> 3368.84] And Joseph says -[3368.84 --> 3370.48] in Genesis 39 verse 9, -[3370.98 --> 3371.94] how could I do -[3371.94 --> 3373.16] such a wicked thing -[3373.16 --> 3375.04] and sin against God? -[3376.30 --> 3377.02] Joseph is thrown -[3377.02 --> 3377.54] into prison. -[3378.54 --> 3379.52] And while in prison, -[3379.52 --> 3381.32] more dreams occur. -[3381.52 --> 3383.42] Pharaoh has a couple dreams -[3383.42 --> 3384.58] and he asks Joseph -[3384.58 --> 3386.62] to interpret those dreams. -[3387.66 --> 3388.70] And Joseph says -[3388.70 --> 3389.90] in Genesis 41, -[3390.26 --> 3391.42] I cannot do it, -[3391.62 --> 3393.48] but God will give Pharaoh -[3393.48 --> 3394.88] the answer he desires. -[3397.36 --> 3400.02] Joseph speaks this answer -[3400.02 --> 3400.84] given from God -[3400.84 --> 3401.84] who is sovereign -[3401.84 --> 3403.72] and Pharaoh rewards him -[3403.72 --> 3405.06] with a privileged place -[3405.06 --> 3406.46] and Joseph eventually -[3406.46 --> 3407.94] moves up through the ranks -[3407.94 --> 3408.52] and he becomes -[3408.52 --> 3410.30] the vizier in Egypt -[3410.30 --> 3411.82] which is second in command -[3411.82 --> 3413.50] only to Pharaoh. -[3414.88 --> 3416.70] And he ends up -[3416.70 --> 3417.50] taking a wife -[3417.50 --> 3418.44] and having a family. -[3419.12 --> 3420.24] And in Genesis 41, -[3420.88 --> 3421.50] we read, -[3421.58 --> 3423.34] Joseph named his firstborn -[3423.34 --> 3424.38] Manasseh -[3424.38 --> 3425.02] and said, -[3425.50 --> 3426.58] it is because God -[3426.58 --> 3427.80] has made me forget -[3427.80 --> 3428.58] all my trouble. -[3429.24 --> 3430.16] And the second son, -[3430.28 --> 3431.20] he named Ephraim -[3431.20 --> 3431.86] and said, -[3431.86 --> 3433.22] it is because God -[3433.22 --> 3434.40] has made me fruitful -[3434.40 --> 3435.24] in the land -[3435.24 --> 3436.08] of my suffering. -[3437.76 --> 3438.66] And then Joseph's story -[3438.66 --> 3439.36] continues because -[3439.36 --> 3440.52] this famine that he predicted -[3440.52 --> 3441.32] does come -[3441.32 --> 3442.74] and his brothers now come -[3442.74 --> 3444.90] from the land of Canaan -[3444.90 --> 3445.86] where they were previously -[3445.86 --> 3446.72] and they come -[3446.72 --> 3448.44] to receive the grain stores -[3448.44 --> 3449.04] that Joseph -[3449.04 --> 3450.24] had helped preserve -[3450.24 --> 3451.60] but they're worried -[3451.60 --> 3452.70] that he's going to extract -[3452.70 --> 3454.42] his revenge on them -[3454.42 --> 3455.54] and in the text -[3455.54 --> 3456.36] that we read -[3456.36 --> 3457.36] in Genesis 50, -[3457.86 --> 3458.48] Joseph says, -[3458.82 --> 3459.78] don't be afraid. -[3459.78 --> 3462.46] Am I in the place of God? -[3462.98 --> 3464.20] You intended to harm me -[3464.20 --> 3465.76] but God intended it for good -[3465.76 --> 3466.62] to accomplish -[3466.62 --> 3467.78] what is now being done, -[3467.88 --> 3469.96] the saving of many lives. -[3470.04 --> 3471.22] So don't be afraid. -[3471.80 --> 3473.24] I will provide for you -[3473.24 --> 3474.66] and your children. -[3476.64 --> 3478.46] The rule of God -[3478.46 --> 3481.48] and his standing over history -[3481.48 --> 3484.60] and then Joseph's submission to it -[3484.60 --> 3486.82] and security within it -[3486.82 --> 3489.76] is all over the faith story -[3489.76 --> 3490.82] of Joseph. -[3491.92 --> 3492.94] But so too -[3492.94 --> 3494.34] is the power -[3494.34 --> 3496.02] of God's providence. -[3496.98 --> 3497.82] So in the same vein, -[3497.98 --> 3499.92] what is providence? -[3501.58 --> 3502.96] If sovereignty -[3502.96 --> 3505.90] is God's right to rule, -[3506.62 --> 3509.50] providence is God's active ruling -[3509.50 --> 3510.56] in the world. -[3510.86 --> 3511.98] It's his actions -[3511.98 --> 3514.60] that come out of that ruling. -[3514.60 --> 3517.02] And so the very act -[3517.02 --> 3517.60] of creation -[3518.14 --> 3519.22] in the very beginning -[3519.22 --> 3520.02] when God said, -[3520.22 --> 3520.84] let there be -[3520.84 --> 3522.44] and there was, -[3522.50 --> 3523.24] that act -[3523.24 --> 3525.42] is part of God's providence. -[3526.36 --> 3527.08] In fact, -[3527.20 --> 3527.68] in the old -[3527.68 --> 3528.60] Westminster Divines, -[3529.26 --> 3530.88] old theological traditions, -[3531.38 --> 3531.88] the doctrine -[3531.88 --> 3532.60] of God's providence -[3533.24 --> 3534.56] was sometimes called -[3534.56 --> 3535.18] the doctrine -[3535.18 --> 3537.10] of continuing creation. -[3538.66 --> 3539.14] Providence -[3539.14 --> 3540.10] is God's -[3540.10 --> 3541.64] continued involvement -[3541.64 --> 3542.86] in the world -[3542.86 --> 3543.86] for his glory -[3543.86 --> 3544.66] and for the good -[3544.66 --> 3545.80] of all that he has made. -[3546.82 --> 3547.42] And so we read -[3547.42 --> 3548.38] in Colossians 1, -[3549.20 --> 3549.94] all things -[3549.94 --> 3550.68] have been created -[3550.68 --> 3551.36] through him -[3551.36 --> 3552.26] and for him. -[3552.36 --> 3554.00] He is before all things -[3554.00 --> 3555.42] and in him -[3555.42 --> 3556.72] all things -[3556.72 --> 3557.30] hold -[3557.30 --> 3558.30] together. -[3559.34 --> 3560.30] And again, -[3560.54 --> 3561.54] very clearly, -[3562.00 --> 3563.10] God's providence -[3563.10 --> 3564.22] is all over -[3564.22 --> 3564.94] the story -[3564.94 --> 3565.50] of Joseph. -[3566.80 --> 3567.70] God's providence -[3567.70 --> 3568.32] is all over -[3568.32 --> 3568.78] the story -[3568.78 --> 3569.68] of the entire drama -[3569.68 --> 3570.32] of Scripture. -[3570.32 --> 3571.54] any time -[3571.54 --> 3572.32] God acts -[3572.32 --> 3573.08] in the world -[3573.08 --> 3573.76] explicitly -[3573.76 --> 3575.06] or behind the scenes, -[3575.16 --> 3576.12] he is acting -[3576.12 --> 3577.26] providentially. -[3578.64 --> 3579.10] And so again, -[3579.20 --> 3579.70] in the story -[3579.70 --> 3580.20] of Joseph, -[3580.58 --> 3581.34] in addition to everything -[3581.34 --> 3582.24] we've already just covered, -[3582.72 --> 3583.98] in Genesis 39, -[3584.42 --> 3584.84] you read, -[3585.00 --> 3585.34] the Lord -[3585.34 --> 3586.80] was with him. -[3587.76 --> 3587.94] Right? -[3587.96 --> 3588.78] He had the promises -[3588.78 --> 3589.92] of God. -[3590.02 --> 3591.50] He had the providence -[3591.50 --> 3592.26] of God -[3592.26 --> 3593.02] and the power -[3593.02 --> 3593.66] of God -[3593.66 --> 3594.84] to rest in. -[3595.68 --> 3596.52] God was always -[3596.52 --> 3597.00] with him. -[3597.06 --> 3597.78] We continue -[3597.78 --> 3598.14] to read -[3598.14 --> 3598.88] in Genesis 39. -[3599.02 --> 3599.42] The Lord -[3599.42 --> 3600.18] was with Joseph -[3600.18 --> 3601.02] and gave him -[3601.02 --> 3601.70] success -[3601.70 --> 3602.74] in whatever -[3602.74 --> 3603.64] he did. -[3604.64 --> 3605.28] And again, -[3605.40 --> 3606.34] from what we read -[3606.34 --> 3607.00] or from what Amara -[3607.00 --> 3607.58] read for us, -[3607.84 --> 3608.98] God intended it -[3608.98 --> 3609.64] for good -[3609.64 --> 3610.66] to accomplish -[3610.66 --> 3611.40] what is now -[3611.40 --> 3612.02] being done, -[3612.12 --> 3612.64] the saving -[3612.64 --> 3614.34] of many lives. -[3614.78 --> 3614.90] Right? -[3614.92 --> 3615.40] That phrase, -[3615.50 --> 3616.22] to accomplish, -[3616.50 --> 3617.60] is God-active -[3617.60 --> 3618.48] language. -[3618.48 --> 3619.26] That's God -[3619.26 --> 3619.90] at work -[3619.90 --> 3621.00] in the world. -[3622.92 --> 3623.06] Now, -[3623.06 --> 3626.76] to be sure, -[3627.72 --> 3629.12] this isn't just -[3629.12 --> 3629.94] an academic -[3629.94 --> 3631.50] or a semantic -[3631.50 --> 3632.98] distinction. -[3634.54 --> 3635.32] Right? -[3635.40 --> 3636.30] The security -[3636.30 --> 3637.56] of God's sovereignty -[3637.56 --> 3638.54] and the power -[3638.54 --> 3639.88] of God's providence -[3639.88 --> 3640.60] impacts -[3640.60 --> 3642.34] your everyday life -[3642.34 --> 3644.74] in every way. -[3646.40 --> 3647.22] Providence -[3647.22 --> 3647.92] impacts -[3647.92 --> 3649.14] your life -[3649.14 --> 3651.12] every day. -[3651.12 --> 3652.48] Let me give you -[3652.48 --> 3653.36] a few examples -[3653.36 --> 3654.42] straight from -[3654.42 --> 3654.76] the story -[3654.76 --> 3655.18] of Joseph -[3655.18 --> 3656.14] and really -[3656.14 --> 3656.64] even just -[3656.64 --> 3657.20] from the part -[3657.20 --> 3658.34] that we read -[3658.34 --> 3659.22] this morning. -[3659.96 --> 3660.18] Now, -[3660.20 --> 3660.74] these examples -[3660.74 --> 3661.54] are informed -[3661.54 --> 3662.62] in part -[3662.62 --> 3663.60] from Hebrews -[3663.60 --> 3664.24] 11, -[3664.46 --> 3664.88] 22, -[3665.32 --> 3666.60] which lists -[3666.60 --> 3667.58] Joseph -[3667.58 --> 3668.48] as one -[3668.48 --> 3669.16] of our -[3669.16 --> 3670.14] faith heroes, -[3670.26 --> 3670.62] as one of -[3670.62 --> 3671.52] those testimonies -[3671.52 --> 3672.48] that we look -[3672.48 --> 3673.02] back to. -[3674.10 --> 3674.80] Hebrews 11, -[3674.90 --> 3675.74] 22 says -[3675.74 --> 3676.88] of Joseph, -[3677.84 --> 3678.58] by faith, -[3678.92 --> 3679.24] Joseph, -[3679.24 --> 3680.40] when his -[3680.40 --> 3681.04] end was -[3681.04 --> 3681.38] near, -[3681.90 --> 3682.64] spoke about -[3682.64 --> 3683.26] the exodus -[3683.26 --> 3684.02] of the Israelites -[3684.02 --> 3684.80] from Egypt -[3684.80 --> 3685.90] and gave instructions -[3685.90 --> 3687.00] concerning the -[3687.00 --> 3689.56] burial of his bones. -[3691.30 --> 3691.48] Now, -[3691.48 --> 3691.98] the line -[3691.98 --> 3692.76] that Hebrews, -[3693.02 --> 3693.48] the author -[3693.48 --> 3694.04] of Hebrews, -[3694.16 --> 3695.08] is focusing on -[3695.08 --> 3695.92] and reflecting on -[3695.92 --> 3696.94] is verse 24 -[3696.94 --> 3697.98] of what Amara -[3697.98 --> 3699.16] read for us, -[3699.24 --> 3700.14] where we read, -[3700.26 --> 3701.06] God will surely -[3701.06 --> 3702.10] come to your aid -[3702.10 --> 3703.10] and take you up -[3703.10 --> 3704.22] out of this land -[3704.22 --> 3705.00] to the land -[3705.00 --> 3705.76] he promised -[3705.76 --> 3706.38] on oath -[3706.38 --> 3706.94] to Abraham, -[3707.60 --> 3708.00] Isaac, -[3708.40 --> 3708.94] and Jacob. -[3710.20 --> 3710.62] Now, -[3710.66 --> 3711.16] notice, -[3711.30 --> 3711.54] right, -[3711.62 --> 3712.48] in Joseph's -[3712.48 --> 3712.98] mind, -[3713.94 --> 3714.54] the hoped -[3714.54 --> 3715.74] for exodus -[3715.74 --> 3717.66] is a sure -[3717.66 --> 3718.62] thing, -[3719.50 --> 3719.64] right? -[3719.70 --> 3720.64] God will surely -[3720.64 --> 3722.24] come to your aid. -[3722.64 --> 3723.64] And it's a sure -[3723.64 --> 3724.76] thing to Joseph -[3724.76 --> 3726.36] because he has seen -[3726.36 --> 3727.64] God's providential -[3727.64 --> 3728.80] action in the world -[3728.80 --> 3731.58] that's the operation -[3731.58 --> 3732.66] of God's sovereign -[3732.66 --> 3733.02] rule. -[3734.74 --> 3734.94] Now, -[3735.06 --> 3735.82] fast forward, -[3736.34 --> 3736.64] right, -[3736.64 --> 3738.20] the promise -[3738.20 --> 3739.52] for us -[3739.52 --> 3740.64] is seen -[3740.64 --> 3741.68] and reiterated -[3741.68 --> 3742.48] and made real -[3742.48 --> 3743.30] again in the -[3743.30 --> 3744.32] resurrection -[3744.32 --> 3745.68] of Jesus, -[3745.88 --> 3746.54] but then also -[3746.54 --> 3747.50] in the return -[3747.50 --> 3748.54] of Jesus, -[3749.14 --> 3749.50] right, -[3749.54 --> 3750.28] which makes -[3750.28 --> 3751.04] for us -[3751.04 --> 3752.08] all the earth -[3752.08 --> 3753.22] a new promised -[3753.22 --> 3754.06] land. -[3755.56 --> 3756.40] And so, -[3757.12 --> 3758.56] for your life, -[3759.22 --> 3759.62] notice -[3759.62 --> 3760.76] these, -[3761.10 --> 3762.60] at least these, -[3762.76 --> 3763.04] anyway, -[3763.04 --> 3763.90] two things. -[3763.90 --> 3766.06] one, -[3767.36 --> 3768.22] Joseph shows -[3768.22 --> 3768.70] us -[3768.70 --> 3769.54] that -[3769.54 --> 3771.16] the treasures -[3771.16 --> 3772.24] of this -[3772.24 --> 3773.12] life -[3773.12 --> 3774.68] don't compare -[3774.68 --> 3775.82] to the sure -[3775.82 --> 3776.80] promises -[3776.80 --> 3778.14] of God -[3778.14 --> 3778.98] for the world -[3778.98 --> 3779.40] to come. -[3780.98 --> 3781.20] Right, -[3781.24 --> 3781.94] even though Joseph -[3781.94 --> 3782.62] was a ruler -[3782.62 --> 3783.52] in Egypt, -[3783.90 --> 3784.50] even though he had -[3784.50 --> 3785.30] all the wealth -[3785.30 --> 3786.04] and the privilege -[3786.04 --> 3787.14] and the power -[3787.14 --> 3787.98] of his position -[3787.98 --> 3789.06] as a -[3789.06 --> 3789.64] vizier -[3789.64 --> 3790.68] and a pharaoh, -[3790.68 --> 3791.82] his heart -[3791.82 --> 3792.84] is for -[3792.84 --> 3793.80] the sure -[3793.80 --> 3794.86] promises -[3794.86 --> 3796.10] of God. -[3797.04 --> 3797.96] And all the wealth -[3797.96 --> 3798.70] of Egypt -[3798.70 --> 3799.90] doesn't compare. -[3801.14 --> 3801.88] The same is true -[3801.88 --> 3802.40] for us. -[3803.06 --> 3803.82] All the wealth -[3803.82 --> 3804.44] of this world, -[3804.54 --> 3805.24] all the privilege -[3805.24 --> 3805.78] that you might -[3805.78 --> 3806.66] experience here -[3806.66 --> 3807.98] does not compare -[3807.98 --> 3808.82] to the glory -[3808.82 --> 3810.04] of God's -[3810.04 --> 3810.58] kingdom. -[3811.84 --> 3812.26] And then, -[3812.32 --> 3812.76] likewise, -[3813.24 --> 3814.28] all the suffering, -[3814.48 --> 3815.10] all the trials, -[3815.26 --> 3816.02] all the tribulations -[3816.02 --> 3817.02] that you might face -[3817.02 --> 3817.72] in this world -[3817.72 --> 3818.68] are not worth -[3818.68 --> 3819.64] comparing to the -[3819.64 --> 3820.28] future glory -[3820.28 --> 3821.00] that will be -[3821.00 --> 3822.14] revealed in us -[3822.14 --> 3823.38] and to us. -[3824.76 --> 3825.34] And yet, -[3826.04 --> 3827.30] how quickly -[3827.30 --> 3828.08] do we -[3828.08 --> 3830.18] bind our hearts -[3830.18 --> 3831.22] and our sense -[3831.22 --> 3831.84] of joy -[3831.84 --> 3833.02] and our ideas -[3833.02 --> 3833.92] of fulfillment -[3833.92 --> 3834.68] and purpose -[3834.68 --> 3835.70] to the things -[3835.70 --> 3836.60] of this world -[3836.60 --> 3838.56] rather than -[3838.56 --> 3840.62] to our sovereign God? -[3842.32 --> 3843.40] Joseph wants you -[3843.40 --> 3843.86] to see -[3843.86 --> 3845.56] that Jesus Christ -[3845.56 --> 3846.50] is a greater -[3846.50 --> 3847.00] treasure -[3847.00 --> 3848.08] than anything -[3848.08 --> 3849.02] you will find -[3849.02 --> 3850.16] in this world. -[3850.28 --> 3853.16] second thing -[3853.16 --> 3853.98] to see here -[3853.98 --> 3856.40] is that -[3856.40 --> 3858.30] even with -[3858.30 --> 3859.24] his death -[3859.24 --> 3860.18] looming, -[3861.86 --> 3862.18] Joseph -[3862.18 --> 3863.38] isn't afraid, -[3864.08 --> 3864.94] but he trusted -[3864.94 --> 3866.02] in the promises -[3866.02 --> 3866.66] of God -[3866.66 --> 3868.00] for the future. -[3868.76 --> 3869.60] And so, -[3869.76 --> 3870.34] with that, -[3870.50 --> 3871.74] he had a sense -[3871.74 --> 3872.62] of comfort -[3872.62 --> 3873.72] and peace -[3873.72 --> 3875.16] in the present. -[3875.16 --> 3876.16] God -[3876.16 --> 3876.98] and just -[3876.98 --> 3877.56] like the last, -[3877.66 --> 3877.76] right, -[3877.84 --> 3878.40] fast forward, -[3878.56 --> 3879.44] the same is true -[3879.44 --> 3880.64] for us today. -[3881.02 --> 3881.64] Christians, -[3881.88 --> 3882.02] right, -[3882.06 --> 3883.48] we aren't afraid -[3883.48 --> 3884.38] of death -[3884.38 --> 3885.44] because of -[3885.44 --> 3885.82] Jesus' -[3886.36 --> 3886.90] resurrection -[3886.90 --> 3887.54] and Jesus' -[3887.76 --> 3888.14] resurrection -[3888.14 --> 3889.46] is a guarantee -[3889.46 --> 3891.50] of our resurrection -[3891.50 --> 3892.40] and Jesus' -[3892.62 --> 3893.02] resurrection -[3893.02 --> 3893.74] and ascension -[3893.74 --> 3894.48] is a promise -[3894.48 --> 3895.90] that one day -[3895.90 --> 3897.10] he will return -[3897.10 --> 3898.12] in power. -[3898.12 --> 3898.24] forever. -[3899.70 --> 3900.10] And so, -[3900.90 --> 3901.32] yes, -[3901.42 --> 3901.78] we don't -[3901.78 --> 3902.98] rush towards -[3902.98 --> 3903.34] death, -[3903.44 --> 3903.76] we don't -[3903.76 --> 3904.26] hasten -[3904.26 --> 3905.22] its coming, -[3905.56 --> 3905.70] right, -[3905.78 --> 3906.24] and in fact, -[3906.34 --> 3906.88] we don't hasten -[3906.88 --> 3907.34] its coming -[3907.34 --> 3907.88] for the very -[3907.88 --> 3908.76] same reason -[3908.76 --> 3909.96] that resurrection -[3909.96 --> 3911.28] is so compelling -[3911.28 --> 3912.00] in the face -[3912.00 --> 3912.48] of death. -[3913.76 --> 3913.92] Right, -[3914.00 --> 3914.68] resurrection is -[3914.68 --> 3915.00] compelling -[3915.00 --> 3915.56] in the face -[3915.56 --> 3915.94] of death -[3915.94 --> 3917.02] because humans -[3917.02 --> 3918.28] are meant -[3918.28 --> 3919.02] to be -[3919.02 --> 3919.78] embodied -[3919.78 --> 3920.64] souls. -[3922.70 --> 3923.22] Right, -[3923.28 --> 3924.36] you are meant -[3924.36 --> 3925.06] to be -[3925.06 --> 3925.98] a soul -[3925.98 --> 3927.18] with a body. -[3928.12 --> 3928.94] A soul -[3928.94 --> 3930.18] without a body, -[3930.40 --> 3931.52] even in heaven, -[3932.22 --> 3933.28] isn't as good -[3933.28 --> 3933.98] or right -[3933.98 --> 3934.90] or how it's -[3934.90 --> 3935.96] supposed to be -[3935.96 --> 3937.06] as a soul -[3937.06 --> 3937.78] embodied -[3937.78 --> 3939.10] in the flesh. -[3940.28 --> 3941.40] To make that point, -[3941.50 --> 3942.08] that's why -[3942.08 --> 3942.56] Jesus -[3942.56 --> 3944.00] now -[3944.00 --> 3945.20] still has -[3945.20 --> 3946.28] a flesh -[3946.28 --> 3947.14] body, -[3947.66 --> 3947.86] right, -[3947.94 --> 3949.14] raised and incorruptible, -[3949.26 --> 3949.64] absolutely, -[3949.92 --> 3950.16] yes, -[3950.20 --> 3951.08] but he is still -[3951.08 --> 3952.00] incarnated, -[3952.10 --> 3952.54] he's still -[3952.54 --> 3953.30] enfleshed -[3953.30 --> 3954.22] because he -[3954.22 --> 3955.18] is truly -[3955.18 --> 3955.70] human, -[3955.84 --> 3956.44] he is still -[3956.44 --> 3957.24] truly human -[3957.24 --> 3958.18] and to be -[3958.18 --> 3958.98] fully human, -[3959.16 --> 3959.86] fully alive -[3959.86 --> 3961.16] is to be -[3961.16 --> 3962.62] embodied. -[3963.90 --> 3964.80] The created -[3964.80 --> 3965.36] body -[3965.36 --> 3966.16] matters -[3966.16 --> 3967.70] and so life -[3967.70 --> 3968.38] in a created -[3968.38 --> 3968.84] body -[3968.84 --> 3969.60] matters -[3969.60 --> 3972.06] and yet, -[3972.66 --> 3973.66] even still, -[3974.42 --> 3975.32] though we may -[3975.32 --> 3975.72] die, -[3976.26 --> 3977.20] we do not -[3977.20 --> 3977.64] mourn -[3977.64 --> 3978.36] as those -[3978.36 --> 3979.40] without hope -[3979.40 --> 3980.42] because we know -[3980.42 --> 3980.96] that those -[3980.96 --> 3981.50] who die -[3981.50 --> 3982.22] in the Lord -[3982.22 --> 3982.74] will be -[3982.74 --> 3983.94] raised up -[3983.94 --> 3984.54] when he -[3984.54 --> 3985.54] returns. -[3987.38 --> 3987.92] Heaven -[3987.92 --> 3988.52] is good, -[3989.64 --> 3990.04] but -[3990.04 --> 3990.62] resurrection -[3990.62 --> 3992.50] even better, -[3993.78 --> 3993.90] right, -[3993.96 --> 3994.26] to be -[3994.26 --> 3994.80] embodied -[3994.80 --> 3996.32] is better. -[3998.00 --> 3998.64] In the -[3998.64 --> 3999.24] famous chapter -[3999.24 --> 4000.06] on resurrection -[4000.06 --> 4001.46] in 1 Corinthians -[4001.46 --> 4001.96] 15, -[4002.12 --> 4002.64] Paul says, -[4002.78 --> 4002.96] where, -[4003.12 --> 4003.46] oh death, -[4003.52 --> 4004.14] is your victory, -[4004.28 --> 4004.50] where, -[4004.62 --> 4004.92] oh death, -[4004.96 --> 4005.56] is your sting? -[4005.88 --> 4006.50] The sting -[4006.50 --> 4007.00] of death -[4007.00 --> 4007.54] is sin -[4007.54 --> 4008.20] and the power -[4008.20 --> 4008.62] of sin -[4008.62 --> 4009.28] is the law, -[4009.38 --> 4009.94] but thanks -[4009.94 --> 4011.14] be to God, -[4011.14 --> 4012.02] he gives -[4012.02 --> 4012.96] us victory -[4012.96 --> 4014.24] through our -[4014.24 --> 4015.40] Lord Jesus -[4015.40 --> 4016.30] Christ. -[4018.58 --> 4019.34] One of the -[4019.34 --> 4020.30] most powerful -[4020.30 --> 4021.36] testimonies -[4021.36 --> 4022.04] of faith -[4022.04 --> 4023.02] that you can -[4023.02 --> 4023.72] witness in your -[4023.72 --> 4024.06] life, -[4024.16 --> 4024.84] that I have -[4024.84 --> 4025.58] witnessed in my -[4025.58 --> 4025.84] own, -[4026.48 --> 4027.28] is when a -[4027.28 --> 4028.86] person dies -[4028.86 --> 4030.12] in the security -[4030.12 --> 4031.04] of God's -[4031.04 --> 4031.46] sovereignty -[4031.46 --> 4033.08] and the power -[4033.08 --> 4033.94] of God's -[4033.94 --> 4034.48] providence. -[4034.48 --> 4035.48] God's -[4035.48 --> 4036.48] God's -[4036.48 --> 4037.40] God's -[4037.40 --> 4038.52] God's -[4038.52 --> 4038.60] Now, -[4039.08 --> 4041.04] as we dig -[4041.04 --> 4041.62] into these -[4041.62 --> 4042.92] ideas, -[4044.06 --> 4046.24] I can anticipate -[4046.24 --> 4047.10] a question -[4047.10 --> 4047.80] from some -[4047.80 --> 4048.18] of you, -[4048.64 --> 4048.78] right, -[4048.82 --> 4049.62] because sometimes -[4049.62 --> 4050.74] when we talk -[4050.74 --> 4051.44] about God's -[4051.44 --> 4051.82] sovereignty, -[4052.08 --> 4052.68] sometimes when we -[4052.68 --> 4053.46] talk about God's -[4053.46 --> 4053.98] providence, -[4054.28 --> 4054.80] and this is -[4054.80 --> 4056.18] especially offered -[4056.18 --> 4056.80] up as a -[4056.80 --> 4057.88] criticism of -[4057.88 --> 4058.62] reformed -[4058.62 --> 4058.98] Christians, -[4059.20 --> 4060.16] which we are -[4060.16 --> 4060.78] or I am, -[4061.36 --> 4062.62] sometimes people -[4062.62 --> 4063.12] think, -[4063.12 --> 4064.56] well, -[4064.60 --> 4065.08] if God's -[4065.08 --> 4065.50] going to do -[4065.50 --> 4065.76] it, -[4066.24 --> 4067.08] why do I -[4067.08 --> 4067.50] have to? -[4069.02 --> 4069.58] I once -[4069.58 --> 4070.12] worked with a -[4070.12 --> 4071.32] person who -[4071.32 --> 4071.86] would say, -[4072.06 --> 4073.10] if it's God's -[4073.10 --> 4073.42] will, -[4073.68 --> 4074.56] it will happen. -[4075.08 --> 4075.78] We don't have -[4075.78 --> 4076.42] to do anything. -[4076.94 --> 4077.46] We don't have -[4077.46 --> 4077.86] to make a -[4077.86 --> 4078.20] decision. -[4080.32 --> 4080.84] But, -[4081.08 --> 4082.52] that doesn't -[4082.52 --> 4083.24] match with -[4083.24 --> 4084.04] what the -[4084.04 --> 4085.00] Bible teaches -[4085.00 --> 4085.68] on this, -[4085.76 --> 4085.92] right? -[4085.94 --> 4086.30] The Bible -[4086.30 --> 4087.56] commands us -[4087.56 --> 4089.08] not to be -[4089.08 --> 4089.56] idle, -[4089.76 --> 4090.38] but to work -[4090.38 --> 4090.92] diligently. -[4091.70 --> 4092.34] That's 2 -[4092.34 --> 4093.00] Thessalonians -[4093.00 --> 4093.30] 3. -[4094.58 --> 4095.38] The Bible -[4095.38 --> 4096.26] reminds us -[4096.26 --> 4097.00] that salvation -[4097.00 --> 4098.16] from sin -[4098.16 --> 4099.42] is salvation -[4099.42 --> 4100.66] to good -[4100.66 --> 4101.10] works. -[4101.90 --> 4102.28] Ephesians -[4102.28 --> 4102.76] 2.10 -[4102.76 --> 4103.08] says, -[4103.52 --> 4104.08] for we are -[4104.08 --> 4104.40] God's -[4104.40 --> 4104.94] handiwork -[4104.94 --> 4105.80] created in -[4105.80 --> 4106.44] Christ Jesus -[4106.44 --> 4107.24] to do -[4107.24 --> 4108.48] good works. -[4109.06 --> 4109.56] Again, -[4109.64 --> 4109.96] the letter -[4109.96 --> 4110.48] to Hebrews -[4110.48 --> 4110.88] says, -[4111.48 --> 4112.04] make every -[4112.04 --> 4112.86] effort to -[4112.86 --> 4113.66] live in -[4113.66 --> 4114.16] peace with -[4114.16 --> 4114.90] everyone and -[4114.90 --> 4115.60] to be -[4115.60 --> 4116.36] holy. -[4117.28 --> 4117.62] Without -[4117.62 --> 4118.10] holiness, -[4118.32 --> 4118.68] no one -[4118.68 --> 4119.10] will see -[4119.10 --> 4119.84] the Lord. -[4119.92 --> 4120.10] And so, -[4120.16 --> 4120.38] hear that, -[4120.44 --> 4120.96] make every -[4120.96 --> 4121.36] effort, -[4121.36 --> 4122.78] and then -[4122.78 --> 4123.52] be holy. -[4124.92 --> 4125.60] Make every -[4125.60 --> 4125.92] effort, -[4126.10 --> 4126.52] do good -[4126.52 --> 4126.82] works, -[4126.94 --> 4127.42] don't be -[4127.42 --> 4127.80] idle. -[4128.16 --> 4128.62] All of -[4128.62 --> 4129.20] these New -[4129.20 --> 4129.56] Testament -[4129.56 --> 4130.30] commands are -[4130.30 --> 4130.58] given, -[4130.94 --> 4131.36] and they -[4131.36 --> 4132.02] sure don't -[4132.02 --> 4132.74] sound like -[4132.74 --> 4133.78] we can't -[4133.78 --> 4134.54] say we -[4134.54 --> 4134.78] don't have -[4134.78 --> 4134.98] to do -[4134.98 --> 4135.30] anything. -[4137.20 --> 4137.30] Right? -[4137.48 --> 4137.74] Now, -[4138.74 --> 4139.68] again, -[4139.82 --> 4140.30] the Bible -[4140.30 --> 4142.34] isn't -[4142.34 --> 4142.96] actually -[4142.96 --> 4143.78] interested -[4143.78 --> 4145.14] in solving -[4145.14 --> 4146.66] the difficulty -[4146.66 --> 4147.74] of God's -[4147.74 --> 4148.56] supreme -[4148.56 --> 4149.44] sovereignty -[4149.44 --> 4150.36] and His -[4150.36 --> 4151.06] providence -[4151.06 --> 4152.48] and human -[4152.48 --> 4153.28] responsibility. -[4155.18 --> 4155.90] But what we -[4155.90 --> 4156.54] see over and -[4156.54 --> 4157.16] over again -[4157.16 --> 4157.88] is that it -[4157.88 --> 4158.40] is both -[4158.40 --> 4159.16] true that -[4159.16 --> 4159.92] not a hair -[4159.92 --> 4160.42] can fall -[4160.42 --> 4160.78] from my -[4160.78 --> 4161.24] head without -[4161.24 --> 4161.64] the will -[4161.64 --> 4161.92] of my -[4161.92 --> 4162.38] Father in -[4162.38 --> 4162.60] heaven, -[4162.94 --> 4164.28] and I -[4164.28 --> 4165.16] still have -[4165.16 --> 4165.96] to cut, -[4166.46 --> 4166.82] wash, -[4167.14 --> 4167.48] comb, -[4167.68 --> 4168.36] and style -[4168.36 --> 4168.86] my hair. -[4170.12 --> 4170.92] I have a -[4170.92 --> 4171.78] responsibility to -[4171.78 --> 4172.32] take care of -[4172.32 --> 4172.48] it. -[4173.62 --> 4174.34] It's true -[4174.34 --> 4175.20] both that, -[4175.20 --> 4175.50] yes, -[4175.62 --> 4176.28] every good -[4176.28 --> 4176.86] and perfect -[4176.86 --> 4177.66] gift comes -[4177.66 --> 4178.22] from above, -[4178.36 --> 4178.92] James 1, -[4179.00 --> 4179.58] verse 17. -[4180.00 --> 4180.52] It's true -[4180.52 --> 4181.30] that God -[4181.30 --> 4182.06] Himself gives -[4182.06 --> 4182.96] everyone life, -[4183.18 --> 4183.42] breath, -[4183.52 --> 4184.38] and everything -[4184.38 --> 4184.88] else, -[4184.98 --> 4185.80] Acts 17, -[4185.90 --> 4186.38] 24, -[4186.90 --> 4189.38] and you -[4189.38 --> 4189.86] must not -[4189.86 --> 4190.46] be lazy -[4190.46 --> 4191.48] or idle. -[4192.88 --> 4193.12] Right? -[4193.14 --> 4193.74] As Paul says -[4193.74 --> 4194.48] in 1 Corinthians, -[4195.00 --> 4195.16] right, -[4195.24 --> 4195.94] always give -[4195.94 --> 4196.76] yourselves fully -[4196.76 --> 4197.34] to the work -[4197.34 --> 4197.86] of the Lord -[4197.86 --> 4198.36] because you -[4198.36 --> 4198.72] know that -[4198.72 --> 4199.22] your labor -[4199.22 --> 4199.86] in the Lord -[4199.86 --> 4200.76] is not in -[4200.76 --> 4201.24] vain. -[4202.10 --> 4202.44] Likewise, -[4202.62 --> 4203.48] in Revelation 2, -[4203.74 --> 4204.34] the church of -[4204.34 --> 4204.98] Ephesus is -[4204.98 --> 4205.74] praised by -[4205.74 --> 4206.12] the very -[4206.12 --> 4206.70] mouth of -[4206.70 --> 4207.50] Jesus when -[4207.50 --> 4208.16] He says -[4208.16 --> 4208.58] to this -[4208.58 --> 4208.80] church, -[4208.94 --> 4209.48] I know -[4209.48 --> 4210.36] your deeds, -[4210.76 --> 4211.28] your hard -[4211.28 --> 4211.68] work, -[4212.12 --> 4212.62] and your -[4212.62 --> 4213.12] perseverance. -[4214.50 --> 4215.26] These aren't -[4215.26 --> 4216.12] contradictions. -[4217.64 --> 4218.04] Rather, -[4218.86 --> 4219.78] they speak -[4219.78 --> 4221.30] to the scope -[4221.30 --> 4222.28] of God's -[4222.28 --> 4222.98] sovereignty, -[4224.02 --> 4224.80] such that -[4224.80 --> 4225.34] everything, -[4225.76 --> 4226.36] everyone, -[4226.58 --> 4227.22] everywhere -[4227.22 --> 4228.18] falls under -[4228.18 --> 4228.74] His rule. -[4229.32 --> 4229.76] Everything, -[4230.10 --> 4230.62] everyone, -[4230.82 --> 4231.44] everywhere -[4231.44 --> 4232.24] lives, -[4232.52 --> 4232.88] moves, -[4233.02 --> 4233.56] and has -[4233.56 --> 4234.24] His or -[4234.24 --> 4234.74] her or -[4234.74 --> 4235.38] its being -[4235.38 --> 4235.86] in Him. -[4236.58 --> 4237.58] He upholds -[4237.58 --> 4238.62] and directs -[4238.62 --> 4239.64] all that -[4239.64 --> 4240.74] it means. -[4241.62 --> 4242.14] And that -[4242.14 --> 4242.86] means the -[4242.86 --> 4243.62] means and -[4243.62 --> 4244.74] the ends. -[4245.46 --> 4245.98] The beginning, -[4246.32 --> 4246.92] the middle, -[4247.08 --> 4247.88] and the end. -[4248.60 --> 4248.88] What this -[4248.88 --> 4249.48] means is, -[4249.70 --> 4250.38] God is not -[4250.38 --> 4251.14] surprised, -[4251.60 --> 4252.04] God's not -[4252.04 --> 4252.48] caught off -[4252.48 --> 4252.82] guard, -[4252.92 --> 4253.26] He's never -[4253.26 --> 4254.18] caught unawares, -[4254.44 --> 4255.24] and it -[4255.24 --> 4256.16] means that -[4256.16 --> 4256.96] you have -[4256.96 --> 4257.82] a responsibility -[4257.82 --> 4259.36] and that we -[4259.36 --> 4260.26] are accountable -[4260.26 --> 4261.54] accountable for -[4261.54 --> 4262.44] our intentions -[4262.44 --> 4263.40] and the -[4263.40 --> 4264.46] actions that -[4264.46 --> 4264.78] result. -[4266.00 --> 4266.36] And this, -[4266.50 --> 4266.56] too, -[4266.66 --> 4267.20] comes out of -[4267.20 --> 4267.68] the story -[4267.68 --> 4268.72] of Joseph, -[4269.16 --> 4269.96] chapter 50, -[4270.24 --> 4270.80] verse 20. -[4270.90 --> 4271.16] Again, -[4272.02 --> 4272.92] you intended -[4272.92 --> 4274.20] to harm -[4274.20 --> 4274.60] me, -[4275.48 --> 4275.96] Joseph said -[4275.96 --> 4276.26] to his -[4276.26 --> 4276.56] brothers. -[4277.08 --> 4277.42] That is, -[4277.50 --> 4278.34] your intentions, -[4278.60 --> 4279.50] the desires -[4279.50 --> 4280.54] of his -[4280.54 --> 4280.88] brothers, -[4281.06 --> 4281.62] their will -[4281.62 --> 4282.08] and their -[4282.08 --> 4282.66] plan and -[4282.66 --> 4283.14] the action -[4283.14 --> 4283.80] that resulted -[4283.80 --> 4284.40] from it, -[4284.76 --> 4285.32] they are -[4285.32 --> 4286.20] responsible for -[4286.20 --> 4286.40] that. -[4286.50 --> 4287.08] They are to -[4287.08 --> 4287.38] be held -[4287.38 --> 4288.50] accountable for -[4288.50 --> 4288.74] that. -[4289.10 --> 4289.60] And, -[4289.68 --> 4290.26] it is also -[4290.26 --> 4290.64] true, -[4291.14 --> 4291.94] God intended -[4291.94 --> 4293.08] it for good -[4293.08 --> 4293.72] to accomplish -[4293.72 --> 4294.32] what is now -[4294.32 --> 4294.84] being done, -[4294.98 --> 4295.44] the saving -[4295.44 --> 4296.26] of many -[4296.26 --> 4296.68] lives. -[4297.30 --> 4298.28] The intentions, -[4298.60 --> 4298.94] actions, -[4299.14 --> 4299.80] and responsibilities -[4299.80 --> 4300.90] of people -[4300.90 --> 4302.76] are both -[4302.76 --> 4304.20] their own -[4304.20 --> 4306.52] and part -[4306.52 --> 4307.18] of God's -[4307.18 --> 4308.52] good plan. -[4309.66 --> 4310.36] In fact, -[4311.10 --> 4312.34] God is so -[4312.34 --> 4313.58] powerful, -[4313.96 --> 4315.40] so omnipotent -[4315.40 --> 4317.12] that it -[4317.12 --> 4317.96] can't be -[4317.96 --> 4318.60] any other -[4318.60 --> 4319.80] way if -[4319.80 --> 4320.18] God is -[4320.18 --> 4320.50] God. -[4322.04 --> 4322.96] And still, -[4323.60 --> 4324.00] the brothers -[4324.00 --> 4324.86] are responsible -[4324.86 --> 4325.86] and culpable -[4325.86 --> 4326.74] and guilty -[4326.74 --> 4327.52] for their -[4327.52 --> 4328.26] intentions, -[4328.50 --> 4329.04] which are -[4329.04 --> 4329.76] evil and -[4329.76 --> 4330.18] the acts -[4330.18 --> 4331.00] that came -[4331.00 --> 4331.26] out of -[4331.26 --> 4331.42] them. -[4332.62 --> 4333.12] In the -[4333.12 --> 4333.46] end, -[4333.74 --> 4333.92] their -[4333.92 --> 4334.60] responsibility -[4334.60 --> 4335.52] doesn't -[4335.52 --> 4336.24] undermine -[4336.24 --> 4336.86] God's -[4336.86 --> 4337.66] providence -[4337.66 --> 4338.30] and sovereign -[4338.30 --> 4338.68] will, -[4338.96 --> 4339.34] it is -[4339.34 --> 4340.00] incorporated -[4340.00 --> 4340.88] by God -[4340.88 --> 4341.50] into -[4341.50 --> 4342.26] his work -[4342.26 --> 4343.20] in the -[4343.20 --> 4343.46] world. -[4343.46 --> 4343.50] world. -[4345.10 --> 4345.84] And so, -[4346.08 --> 4347.12] let's pull -[4347.12 --> 4347.60] all of this -[4347.60 --> 4348.04] together -[4348.04 --> 4349.44] here at the -[4349.44 --> 4349.66] end. -[4351.30 --> 4352.30] The story -[4352.30 --> 4352.82] of Joseph -[4352.82 --> 4353.58] is given -[4353.58 --> 4354.24] to us -[4354.24 --> 4354.72] as a -[4354.72 --> 4355.14] testimony -[4355.14 --> 4355.96] of a -[4355.96 --> 4356.58] faith hero -[4356.58 --> 4357.34] because he -[4357.34 --> 4358.04] is a -[4358.04 --> 4358.38] lived -[4358.38 --> 4358.98] example -[4358.98 --> 4359.56] of the -[4359.56 --> 4360.20] security -[4360.20 --> 4361.74] and assurance -[4361.74 --> 4362.74] of God's -[4362.74 --> 4363.22] sovereign -[4363.22 --> 4363.80] rule -[4363.80 --> 4364.44] in the -[4364.44 --> 4364.70] world. -[4364.70 --> 4365.16] And he -[4365.16 --> 4365.90] shows us -[4365.90 --> 4366.28] that we -[4366.28 --> 4366.60] have a -[4366.60 --> 4367.12] responsibility -[4367.12 --> 4368.52] to work -[4368.52 --> 4369.02] and to be -[4369.02 --> 4369.40] diligent -[4369.40 --> 4369.92] and to -[4369.92 --> 4370.38] make the -[4370.38 --> 4370.86] most of -[4370.86 --> 4371.18] whatever -[4371.18 --> 4372.00] circumstances -[4372.00 --> 4372.90] that we -[4372.90 --> 4373.54] find ourselves -[4373.54 --> 4373.80] in, -[4374.04 --> 4374.54] in the -[4374.54 --> 4375.12] confidence -[4375.12 --> 4376.24] of God's -[4376.24 --> 4376.70] sovereign -[4376.70 --> 4377.10] rule. -[4378.04 --> 4378.40] In fact, -[4378.52 --> 4378.88] God's -[4378.88 --> 4379.50] sovereignty -[4379.50 --> 4380.38] is an -[4380.38 --> 4380.92] encouragement -[4380.92 --> 4382.10] for all -[4382.10 --> 4383.40] of life. -[4385.04 --> 4385.68] And -[4385.68 --> 4386.72] Joseph's -[4386.72 --> 4387.44] story shows -[4387.44 --> 4388.32] us that -[4388.32 --> 4388.72] God's -[4388.72 --> 4389.54] providence -[4389.54 --> 4390.92] is always -[4390.92 --> 4391.90] good. -[4393.60 --> 4394.22] So many -[4394.22 --> 4394.66] of us -[4394.66 --> 4395.72] are familiar -[4395.72 --> 4396.02] with -[4396.02 --> 4396.34] Jeremiah -[4396.34 --> 4396.92] 29 -[4396.92 --> 4397.80] verse 11. -[4398.52 --> 4398.88] Jeremiah -[4398.88 --> 4399.44] 29 -[4399.44 --> 4400.02] verse 11 -[4400.02 --> 4401.58] is part -[4401.58 --> 4402.06] of a -[4402.06 --> 4402.32] letter -[4402.32 --> 4402.66] that the -[4402.66 --> 4402.90] prophet -[4402.90 --> 4403.44] Jeremiah -[4403.44 --> 4403.88] writes -[4403.88 --> 4404.24] to the -[4404.24 --> 4404.84] exiles -[4404.84 --> 4405.64] who have -[4405.64 --> 4406.64] been taken -[4406.64 --> 4407.04] away -[4407.04 --> 4407.72] in Babylon -[4407.72 --> 4408.44] to Babylon. -[4409.44 --> 4409.56] And -[4409.56 --> 4410.58] God speaks -[4410.58 --> 4410.92] through the -[4410.92 --> 4411.18] prophet. -[4411.32 --> 4411.98] He says, -[4412.64 --> 4413.10] for I know -[4413.10 --> 4413.72] the plans -[4413.72 --> 4414.14] I have -[4414.14 --> 4414.48] for you, -[4414.60 --> 4414.86] declares -[4414.86 --> 4415.32] the Lord, -[4416.02 --> 4416.52] plans to -[4416.52 --> 4417.24] prosper you -[4417.24 --> 4417.52] and not -[4417.52 --> 4417.92] to harm -[4417.92 --> 4418.10] you, -[4418.18 --> 4418.58] plans to -[4418.58 --> 4418.82] give you -[4418.82 --> 4419.28] a hope -[4419.28 --> 4420.18] and a -[4420.18 --> 4420.52] future. -[4421.52 --> 4421.96] And for -[4421.96 --> 4422.34] Jeremiah -[4422.34 --> 4423.00] and for -[4423.00 --> 4423.40] the people -[4423.40 --> 4423.82] in -[4423.82 --> 4424.54] Babylonian -[4424.54 --> 4424.96] exile, -[4425.10 --> 4425.62] that means -[4425.62 --> 4426.34] an end -[4426.34 --> 4426.80] to their -[4426.80 --> 4427.22] exile. -[4428.10 --> 4428.48] For -[4428.48 --> 4428.86] Joseph, -[4429.10 --> 4429.68] that means -[4429.68 --> 4430.46] an exodus -[4430.46 --> 4431.92] from Egypt. -[4432.80 --> 4433.18] And for -[4433.18 --> 4433.64] us, -[4433.68 --> 4434.34] that means -[4434.34 --> 4435.12] a resurrection -[4435.12 --> 4436.04] and the -[4436.04 --> 4436.90] full coming -[4436.90 --> 4437.18] of the -[4437.18 --> 4437.44] kingdom -[4437.44 --> 4438.02] of God. -[4439.16 --> 4439.78] And so, -[4439.92 --> 4440.36] whether in -[4440.36 --> 4441.14] life or -[4441.14 --> 4441.90] in death, -[4442.12 --> 4442.56] we have -[4442.56 --> 4443.00] comfort, -[4443.30 --> 4443.52] we have -[4443.52 --> 4443.82] hope, -[4444.12 --> 4444.52] and even -[4444.52 --> 4445.42] joy because -[4445.42 --> 4447.32] we know -[4447.32 --> 4448.28] the plans -[4448.28 --> 4449.46] God has -[4449.46 --> 4450.04] for us. -[4450.04 --> 4450.16] plans. -[4451.76 --> 4452.34] And it -[4452.34 --> 4452.80] means that -[4452.80 --> 4453.52] even as -[4453.52 --> 4454.40] God makes -[4454.40 --> 4455.12] plans, -[4456.22 --> 4457.04] we make -[4457.04 --> 4457.52] plans. -[4458.20 --> 4459.02] Plans even -[4459.02 --> 4459.56] in the face -[4459.56 --> 4459.98] of death, -[4460.06 --> 4460.22] right? -[4460.30 --> 4460.98] Joseph said, -[4461.32 --> 4461.76] even in the -[4461.76 --> 4462.16] face of -[4462.16 --> 4462.34] death, -[4462.44 --> 4462.84] you must -[4462.84 --> 4463.44] carry my -[4463.44 --> 4464.20] bones up -[4464.20 --> 4464.76] from this -[4464.76 --> 4465.16] place. -[4465.32 --> 4465.74] And so, -[4465.96 --> 4467.06] we make -[4467.06 --> 4467.68] plans. -[4469.32 --> 4469.60] And in -[4469.60 --> 4469.76] fact, -[4470.56 --> 4471.66] and I know -[4471.66 --> 4472.68] this is a -[4472.68 --> 4473.16] really bold -[4473.16 --> 4473.70] thing to -[4473.70 --> 4474.00] say, -[4474.00 --> 4475.64] but the -[4475.64 --> 4476.72] only reason -[4476.72 --> 4477.72] you have -[4477.72 --> 4478.12] to make -[4478.12 --> 4478.68] plans, -[4479.18 --> 4479.74] the only -[4479.74 --> 4480.40] reason that -[4480.40 --> 4480.60] you can -[4480.60 --> 4480.92] have any -[4480.92 --> 4481.36] confidence -[4481.36 --> 4482.08] in the -[4482.08 --> 4482.50] plans that -[4482.50 --> 4482.98] you make -[4482.98 --> 4484.20] is that -[4484.20 --> 4484.88] the future -[4484.88 --> 4486.04] might actually -[4486.04 --> 4486.36] come. -[4488.06 --> 4488.46] The only -[4488.46 --> 4488.80] reason you -[4488.80 --> 4489.02] can have -[4489.02 --> 4489.56] that confidence -[4489.56 --> 4490.34] is because -[4490.34 --> 4491.48] of the -[4491.48 --> 4492.28] sovereignty -[4492.28 --> 4493.98] of God -[4493.98 --> 4495.44] and the -[4495.44 --> 4495.96] power -[4495.96 --> 4497.56] of His -[4497.56 --> 4498.18] providence. -[4499.22 --> 4499.88] And that -[4499.88 --> 4500.96] changes -[4500.96 --> 4502.24] everything -[4502.24 --> 4503.18] about every -[4503.18 --> 4504.34] day of -[4504.34 --> 4504.82] your life, -[4505.00 --> 4506.04] but especially, -[4506.66 --> 4509.30] especially as -[4509.30 --> 4509.70] you face -[4509.70 --> 4510.02] death. -[4512.10 --> 4512.84] So, -[4512.92 --> 4513.04] I was -[4513.04 --> 4513.46] reflecting -[4513.46 --> 4514.36] this week. -[4515.58 --> 4516.42] I was -[4516.42 --> 4517.02] thinking about -[4517.02 --> 4518.08] the very -[4518.08 --> 4519.28] first funeral -[4519.28 --> 4519.84] I ever -[4519.84 --> 4520.70] officiated as -[4520.70 --> 4521.14] a pastor. -[4522.86 --> 4524.00] I was -[4524.00 --> 4526.24] 28 years -[4526.24 --> 4526.66] old, -[4526.92 --> 4527.62] maybe like -[4527.62 --> 4528.56] four months -[4528.56 --> 4529.74] into my -[4529.74 --> 4530.38] ministry, -[4530.96 --> 4531.72] my first -[4531.72 --> 4532.72] charge as -[4532.72 --> 4533.24] a pastor. -[4534.34 --> 4534.90] So, -[4534.96 --> 4535.62] I just -[4535.62 --> 4536.36] started getting -[4536.36 --> 4536.76] to know -[4536.76 --> 4537.44] these people -[4537.44 --> 4538.98] and John -[4538.98 --> 4539.48] Backer, -[4540.02 --> 4540.52] senior -[4540.52 --> 4541.32] statesman -[4541.32 --> 4542.16] of the -[4542.16 --> 4542.42] church, -[4542.54 --> 4542.80] one of -[4542.80 --> 4543.44] the charter -[4543.44 --> 4544.04] members -[4544.04 --> 4545.12] of this -[4545.12 --> 4545.68] community, -[4546.16 --> 4546.52] had been -[4546.52 --> 4546.94] sick for -[4546.94 --> 4547.52] about 25 -[4547.52 --> 4548.00] years. -[4549.30 --> 4549.54] Right? -[4549.60 --> 4549.96] He had -[4549.96 --> 4551.26] lung issues, -[4551.40 --> 4551.90] he was on -[4551.90 --> 4553.52] a respirator, -[4553.60 --> 4554.00] he carried -[4554.00 --> 4554.48] an oxygen -[4554.48 --> 4555.04] tank with -[4555.04 --> 4555.48] him wherever -[4555.48 --> 4556.04] he went, -[4557.42 --> 4559.16] and before -[4559.16 --> 4559.64] I had -[4559.64 --> 4560.22] started there, -[4560.28 --> 4560.52] he was -[4560.52 --> 4561.06] already in -[4561.06 --> 4561.56] the hospital. -[4562.42 --> 4562.86] Four months -[4562.86 --> 4563.16] later, -[4563.24 --> 4564.18] he was -[4564.18 --> 4565.04] on his -[4565.04 --> 4565.56] deathbed. -[4566.46 --> 4567.36] John and -[4567.36 --> 4567.70] his wife -[4567.70 --> 4568.12] Grace, -[4568.66 --> 4569.38] beautiful -[4569.38 --> 4570.64] saints in -[4570.64 --> 4571.06] the church. -[4572.26 --> 4572.94] Every time -[4572.94 --> 4573.34] I went to -[4573.34 --> 4573.96] visit John, -[4575.14 --> 4575.82] even though -[4575.82 --> 4576.28] he knew -[4576.28 --> 4576.70] he was -[4576.70 --> 4577.28] near death, -[4578.08 --> 4578.62] he was -[4578.62 --> 4579.24] more concerned -[4579.24 --> 4579.72] with my -[4579.72 --> 4580.16] well-being, -[4580.86 --> 4581.44] and how -[4581.44 --> 4581.80] things were -[4581.80 --> 4582.18] going in -[4582.18 --> 4582.64] the church -[4582.64 --> 4583.38] under my -[4583.38 --> 4584.74] new leadership -[4584.74 --> 4585.54] and direction, -[4585.74 --> 4586.64] and he was -[4586.64 --> 4587.16] more interested -[4587.16 --> 4587.70] in hearing -[4587.70 --> 4588.76] about what's -[4588.76 --> 4589.28] going on in -[4589.28 --> 4589.74] my life, -[4589.80 --> 4590.08] and how -[4590.08 --> 4590.62] my wife -[4590.62 --> 4591.22] was adjusting -[4591.22 --> 4591.72] to the -[4591.72 --> 4592.14] community, -[4592.40 --> 4594.48] because he -[4594.48 --> 4595.12] had a -[4595.12 --> 4595.80] confidence. -[4596.76 --> 4597.34] Every time -[4597.34 --> 4597.76] we would -[4597.76 --> 4598.30] sit down, -[4598.40 --> 4598.66] he would -[4598.66 --> 4598.90] say, -[4599.40 --> 4599.66] I'm not -[4599.66 --> 4599.90] worried, -[4600.02 --> 4600.20] pastor, -[4600.28 --> 4600.58] I know -[4600.58 --> 4601.22] exactly -[4601.22 --> 4602.22] where I'm -[4602.22 --> 4602.52] going. -[4606.28 --> 4606.90] When his -[4606.90 --> 4607.50] time finally -[4607.50 --> 4607.94] came, -[4609.20 --> 4609.62] I was -[4609.62 --> 4610.12] gathered with -[4610.12 --> 4610.48] him and -[4610.48 --> 4610.98] his wife -[4610.98 --> 4611.62] and their -[4611.62 --> 4612.60] kids in -[4612.60 --> 4613.06] his hospital -[4613.06 --> 4614.44] room for -[4614.44 --> 4614.78] about two -[4614.78 --> 4615.06] and a half -[4615.06 --> 4615.38] hours. -[4615.96 --> 4616.54] We sat -[4616.54 --> 4616.96] together, -[4616.96 --> 4617.82] we prayed -[4617.82 --> 4618.26] together, -[4618.62 --> 4619.12] we sang -[4619.12 --> 4619.56] hymns -[4619.56 --> 4619.94] together, -[4620.46 --> 4621.50] and we -[4621.50 --> 4622.04] sang -[4622.04 --> 4622.76] Amazing -[4622.76 --> 4623.24] Grace, -[4624.12 --> 4624.64] and as -[4624.64 --> 4625.20] we prayed, -[4625.36 --> 4625.82] I thought, -[4626.14 --> 4626.74] wouldn't this -[4626.74 --> 4627.30] be a beautiful -[4627.30 --> 4628.12] testimony if -[4628.12 --> 4628.58] he went to -[4628.58 --> 4628.96] the Lord -[4628.96 --> 4629.40] while we -[4629.40 --> 4629.70] sang? -[4630.72 --> 4631.54] We finished -[4631.54 --> 4632.20] singing the -[4632.20 --> 4632.48] song, -[4633.10 --> 4633.90] I looked at -[4633.90 --> 4634.20] John, -[4634.30 --> 4634.72] he took a -[4634.72 --> 4635.28] deep breath, -[4635.68 --> 4636.08] and he -[4636.08 --> 4636.36] stopped -[4636.36 --> 4636.72] breathing. -[4638.36 --> 4638.80] Ten -[4638.80 --> 4639.16] seconds -[4639.16 --> 4639.62] passed, -[4640.28 --> 4640.68] fifteen -[4640.68 --> 4641.10] seconds -[4641.10 --> 4641.56] passed, -[4642.20 --> 4642.34] and he -[4642.34 --> 4642.44] went, -[4642.52 --> 4644.76] pastor, -[4644.90 --> 4645.12] you can -[4645.12 --> 4645.36] leave. -[4646.96 --> 4648.68] He's like, -[4648.72 --> 4649.02] don't worry -[4649.02 --> 4649.42] about me, -[4649.76 --> 4650.40] I'm okay. -[4651.46 --> 4651.92] And so I -[4651.92 --> 4652.26] left. -[4653.10 --> 4653.78] Before I made -[4653.78 --> 4654.10] it to the -[4654.10 --> 4654.62] parking lot, -[4654.70 --> 4655.02] I got a -[4655.02 --> 4655.34] phone call -[4655.34 --> 4655.84] from Grace. -[4656.98 --> 4657.34] Pastor, -[4657.96 --> 4658.62] he died. -[4660.64 --> 4661.24] It's like he -[4661.24 --> 4661.54] was waiting -[4661.54 --> 4661.94] for me to -[4661.94 --> 4662.12] leave, -[4662.18 --> 4662.42] I don't -[4662.42 --> 4662.62] know. -[4664.00 --> 4664.54] But even -[4664.54 --> 4664.84] in that -[4664.84 --> 4665.28] moment, -[4666.00 --> 4666.36] he had -[4666.36 --> 4666.74] joy, -[4667.54 --> 4667.82] and he -[4667.82 --> 4668.04] made a -[4668.04 --> 4668.38] joke, -[4668.98 --> 4669.50] he had -[4669.50 --> 4670.00] confidence, -[4670.48 --> 4671.20] he knew -[4671.20 --> 4671.82] where he -[4671.82 --> 4672.44] was going -[4672.44 --> 4673.30] and what -[4673.30 --> 4674.02] laid in -[4674.02 --> 4674.36] front of -[4674.36 --> 4674.52] him, -[4674.64 --> 4674.98] and so -[4674.98 --> 4675.44] did the -[4675.44 --> 4676.02] family that -[4676.02 --> 4676.78] surrounded -[4676.78 --> 4677.04] him. -[4677.16 --> 4677.64] That was -[4677.64 --> 4678.24] a beautiful -[4678.24 --> 4679.28] testimony of -[4679.28 --> 4680.18] a man who -[4680.18 --> 4680.94] knew the -[4680.94 --> 4682.08] sovereignty of -[4682.08 --> 4682.46] God and -[4682.46 --> 4683.48] rested in -[4683.48 --> 4684.20] the security -[4684.20 --> 4684.78] of a God -[4684.78 --> 4685.30] who is in -[4685.30 --> 4685.90] control no -[4685.90 --> 4686.36] matter what. -[4686.56 --> 4687.12] That is the -[4687.12 --> 4687.76] testimony of -[4687.76 --> 4688.60] a man who -[4688.60 --> 4689.08] knew the -[4689.08 --> 4690.58] power of -[4690.58 --> 4690.90] God's -[4690.90 --> 4691.44] providence. -[4694.04 --> 4694.70] I would -[4694.70 --> 4695.08] see that -[4695.08 --> 4695.76] same sort -[4695.76 --> 4696.30] of testimony -[4696.30 --> 4696.92] again. -[4698.48 --> 4699.00] Fast -[4699.00 --> 4700.40] forward to -[4700.40 --> 4700.94] 2015, -[4701.72 --> 4702.40] and I -[4702.40 --> 4702.68] started -[4702.68 --> 4703.32] preaching a -[4703.32 --> 4704.40] series on -[4704.40 --> 4705.96] Joseph in -[4705.96 --> 4706.40] this church -[4706.40 --> 4706.86] community, -[4707.66 --> 4708.92] and the -[4708.92 --> 4709.58] series was -[4709.58 --> 4710.54] called God's -[4710.54 --> 4711.76] Sovereignty and -[4711.76 --> 4712.58] Human Suffering, -[4713.58 --> 4716.12] and a man not -[4716.12 --> 4716.66] from our church -[4716.66 --> 4717.88] community started -[4717.88 --> 4718.66] coming to our -[4718.66 --> 4719.30] evening services -[4719.30 --> 4719.72] where I was -[4719.72 --> 4720.24] teaching this -[4720.24 --> 4720.52] series. -[4722.46 --> 4723.78] I spent about -[4723.78 --> 4725.30] six weeks in -[4725.30 --> 4725.92] this series, -[4726.76 --> 4728.14] and two weeks -[4728.14 --> 4728.72] after I -[4728.72 --> 4729.18] finished, -[4729.76 --> 4730.04] Louis -[4730.04 --> 4731.04] Vandenberg came -[4731.04 --> 4731.56] to me and -[4731.56 --> 4731.86] said, -[4732.42 --> 4733.90] the first -[4733.90 --> 4734.46] Sunday you -[4734.46 --> 4735.14] started preaching -[4735.14 --> 4735.84] this series, -[4736.74 --> 4737.72] I had heard -[4737.72 --> 4738.10] from my -[4738.10 --> 4738.72] doctor that I -[4738.72 --> 4739.14] had a terminal -[4739.14 --> 4740.08] cancer diagnosis, -[4740.48 --> 4741.36] and I didn't -[4741.36 --> 4741.82] know what to -[4741.82 --> 4742.02] do. -[4743.46 --> 4744.16] And then I -[4744.16 --> 4744.90] saw in the -[4744.90 --> 4745.30] community -[4745.30 --> 4745.94] bulletin that -[4745.94 --> 4746.20] you were -[4746.20 --> 4746.66] preaching this -[4746.66 --> 4746.92] series, -[4747.02 --> 4747.24] and I -[4747.24 --> 4747.40] thought, -[4747.48 --> 4747.70] I'm going -[4747.70 --> 4748.02] to come. -[4749.06 --> 4749.54] As I have -[4749.54 --> 4750.26] returned every -[4750.26 --> 4751.08] week because I -[4751.08 --> 4751.90] needed to hear -[4751.90 --> 4753.32] this testimony -[4753.32 --> 4754.08] of who God -[4754.08 --> 4754.38] is, -[4755.56 --> 4755.74] Louis -[4755.74 --> 4758.06] too went -[4758.06 --> 4758.72] to be with -[4758.72 --> 4759.54] his Lord in -[4759.54 --> 4760.18] the confidence -[4760.18 --> 4761.02] of a sovereign -[4761.02 --> 4761.46] God, -[4762.58 --> 4763.36] in the sure -[4763.36 --> 4764.96] arms of his -[4764.96 --> 4765.94] providential -[4765.94 --> 4766.84] power. -[4768.82 --> 4769.58] Because that's -[4769.58 --> 4770.10] who our God -[4770.10 --> 4770.46] is. -[4771.96 --> 4772.52] That's who -[4772.52 --> 4772.90] our God -[4772.90 --> 4773.20] is. -[4774.30 --> 4774.72] And so even -[4774.72 --> 4775.22] as you look -[4775.22 --> 4775.72] to the story -[4775.72 --> 4776.20] of Joseph, -[4777.12 --> 4777.68] even as you -[4777.68 --> 4778.04] look to the -[4778.04 --> 4778.78] story of John, -[4779.34 --> 4779.76] even as you -[4779.76 --> 4780.14] look to the -[4780.14 --> 4780.64] story of Louis, -[4780.78 --> 4781.94] whoever's story -[4781.94 --> 4782.90] you are thinking -[4782.90 --> 4783.70] about right now, -[4783.76 --> 4784.84] or however you -[4784.84 --> 4785.30] are thinking -[4785.30 --> 4785.82] about making -[4785.82 --> 4786.56] this your -[4786.56 --> 4787.44] story, -[4787.80 --> 4788.22] no. -[4788.72 --> 4789.62] that our -[4789.62 --> 4791.18] good God -[4791.18 --> 4792.64] is sovereign, -[4793.66 --> 4794.26] that he -[4794.26 --> 4795.34] rules in -[4795.34 --> 4796.44] this world, -[4796.56 --> 4797.22] and that he -[4797.22 --> 4798.68] has a plan -[4798.68 --> 4799.80] and a purpose, -[4800.00 --> 4800.78] and in his -[4800.78 --> 4801.76] providence, -[4802.06 --> 4803.40] it is -[4803.40 --> 4804.50] good. -[4805.98 --> 4807.28] This is -[4807.28 --> 4807.88] our -[4807.88 --> 4809.14] God, -[4809.72 --> 4810.52] and he -[4810.52 --> 4811.62] is -[4811.62 --> 4812.64] good. -[4813.36 --> 4813.68] Amen. -[4813.68 --> 4813.78] Amen. -[4814.36 --> 4815.10] Let's pray -[4815.10 --> 4815.42] together. -[4815.42 --> 4823.36] Holy God, -[4823.44 --> 4824.02] as we come -[4824.02 --> 4824.76] to you in -[4824.76 --> 4825.12] prayer, -[4825.82 --> 4827.86] we have -[4827.86 --> 4828.20] on our -[4828.20 --> 4828.66] hearts and -[4828.66 --> 4829.16] our minds -[4829.16 --> 4829.62] people, -[4829.92 --> 4830.20] we have -[4830.20 --> 4830.40] in our -[4830.40 --> 4830.76] hearts and -[4830.76 --> 4831.16] our minds -[4831.16 --> 4831.82] circumstances -[4831.82 --> 4832.98] and stories, -[4833.54 --> 4833.98] we have -[4833.98 --> 4834.46] in our minds -[4834.46 --> 4835.32] situations, -[4836.26 --> 4836.78] and I pray, -[4836.94 --> 4837.28] Lord God, -[4837.36 --> 4838.04] that in and -[4838.04 --> 4838.78] through each -[4838.78 --> 4839.54] of those, -[4839.66 --> 4840.24] you would -[4840.24 --> 4841.02] make yourself -[4841.02 --> 4841.32] known, -[4841.38 --> 4841.98] that in and -[4841.98 --> 4842.82] through each -[4842.82 --> 4843.24] of those, -[4843.36 --> 4843.78] we might -[4843.78 --> 4844.62] rest secure -[4844.62 --> 4845.48] in the -[4845.48 --> 4846.14] promise and -[4846.14 --> 4846.82] power of -[4846.82 --> 4847.74] your sovereignty -[4847.74 --> 4848.88] and providence. -[4849.36 --> 4850.14] Help us to -[4850.14 --> 4851.12] know you -[4851.12 --> 4852.38] more completely -[4852.38 --> 4853.00] and more -[4853.00 --> 4853.38] truly, -[4853.38 --> 4854.08] and help us -[4854.08 --> 4855.10] to rest -[4855.10 --> 4856.32] in that -[4856.32 --> 4857.58] truth today. -[4859.10 --> 4859.90] And so, -[4860.02 --> 4860.28] whether we -[4860.28 --> 4860.96] face life -[4860.96 --> 4862.24] or death, -[4863.30 --> 4863.90] whether we -[4863.90 --> 4865.04] face a -[4865.04 --> 4865.54] transition -[4865.54 --> 4866.32] or more -[4866.32 --> 4866.64] of the -[4866.64 --> 4866.88] same, -[4868.04 --> 4868.60] I pray, -[4868.72 --> 4869.00] Lord God, -[4869.04 --> 4869.58] that we would -[4869.58 --> 4870.64] face that -[4870.64 --> 4871.12] in the -[4871.12 --> 4871.82] confidence -[4871.82 --> 4872.76] of who -[4872.76 --> 4874.14] you are. -[4875.14 --> 4875.58] As we -[4875.58 --> 4875.92] look to -[4875.92 --> 4876.22] Joseph, -[4876.44 --> 4876.90] help us -[4876.90 --> 4877.58] to see -[4877.58 --> 4878.30] you. -[4878.96 --> 4879.44] As we -[4879.44 --> 4879.66] look to -[4879.66 --> 4880.06] those people -[4880.06 --> 4880.32] that you -[4880.32 --> 4880.84] have placed -[4880.84 --> 4881.30] in our -[4881.30 --> 4881.66] lives, -[4881.78 --> 4882.36] help us -[4882.36 --> 4883.22] to know -[4883.22 --> 4884.20] you. -[4885.12 --> 4885.64] In your -[4885.64 --> 4886.02] name we -[4886.02 --> 4886.30] pray. -[4887.30 --> 4887.68] Amen. -[4901.82 --> 4910.60] or -[4910.74 --> 4911.38] to be -[4913.38 --> 4914.50] on this -[4914.54 --> 4916.32] we -[4920.32 --> 4920.44] today. -[4920.44 --> 4926.44] God is only true. -[4928.20 --> 4933.44] The sinner, man, and the power -[4933.96 --> 4938.44] has been on Jesus' way. -[4943.44 --> 4948.44] Silent as he stood on youth, -[4948.44 --> 4954.44] beaten up his sword. -[4955.44 --> 4960.44] Gowing to the Father's will, -[4961.44 --> 4966.44] he took the cross and forth. -[4967.44 --> 4972.44] For your prophet bless my salvation, -[4972.44 --> 4978.44] where your love for you will be. -[4979.44 --> 4984.44] Now my soul cries out, hallelujah, -[4985.44 --> 4990.44] praise and honor unto thee. -[4990.44 --> 4999.44] The saint of heaven's love's love -[5000.44 --> 5005.44] to purchase and redeem. -[5006.44 --> 5012.44] The man in style of every voice -[5012.44 --> 5018.44] who meld into the church. -[5019.44 --> 5024.44] The black and cross my salvation, -[5025.44 --> 5030.44] where your love for you will be. -[5030.44 --> 5036.44] Now my soul cries out, hallelujah, -[5037.44 --> 5042.44] praise and honor unto thee. -[5042.44 --> 5045.44] The Lord, my God, and the power of you will be. -[5046.44 --> 5048.44] The Lord, my God, and the power of you will be. -[5048.44 --> 5052.44] God is free, it is paid in foe, -[5052.44 --> 5054.44] Father precious care, -[5055.44 --> 5058.44] God my Jesus, fear. -[5058.44 --> 5064.44] Now the curse of sin has no hold on thee, -[5065.44 --> 5070.44] In the sans' free, all is free indeed. -[5070.44 --> 5077.70] How I'm dead is good, it is made in love. -[5077.96 --> 5083.44] I'm the precious blood that my Jesus knew. -[5084.32 --> 5090.36] How the curse of sin has no hold on me. -[5090.66 --> 5095.44] In the sand search free, how is free indeed. -[5095.44 --> 5102.08] For the power of the cross, the salvation. -[5102.90 --> 5108.14] Where your love goes out, over me. -[5108.88 --> 5114.26] How I saw the love, hallelujah. -[5114.26 --> 5119.46] Is it all a right to me? -[5119.46 --> 5130.86] See the stone is rolled away. -[5131.32 --> 5136.20] Behold the empty tomb. -[5136.20 --> 5143.08] Hallelujah, God we praise. -[5143.42 --> 5148.60] He's raised upon your grace. -[5148.60 --> 5154.32] For the broken cross, the salvation. -[5155.06 --> 5160.24] Where your love goes out, over me. -[5160.24 --> 5166.24] How I saw the love, hallelujah. -[5166.24 --> 5171.66] Praise and honor all to me. -[5172.70 --> 5178.70] Praise and honor all to me. -[5178.70 --> 5194.84] As we go, we go in the security and the power of God going with us. -[5194.84 --> 5206.36] As I speak the blessing, I encourage you to pay particular attention to how these statements of who God is are true for us, are compelling for us. -[5206.66 --> 5213.96] Because God is sovereign and he acts providentially in the world on behalf of his people. -[5214.44 --> 5216.32] Receive God's blessing. -[5218.12 --> 5221.04] God goes before you to lead you. -[5221.74 --> 5223.84] God go behind you to protect you. -[5223.84 --> 5226.36] God go beneath you to support you. -[5226.74 --> 5229.28] God go beside you to befriend you. -[5229.60 --> 5231.88] Do not be afraid. -[5233.08 --> 5235.50] May the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5235.66 --> 5237.86] Do not be afraid. -[5238.90 --> 5245.96] But go in peace in life and in death to love and serve the Lord. -[5247.16 --> 5247.76] Amen. -[5253.84 --> 5269.74] The world that you areAll done. -[5271.40 --> 5272.58] The Lord is also blessed. -[5272.68 --> 5277.10] Praise and profess to you. -[5277.10 --> 5279.10] Oh -[5307.10 --> 5309.10] Oh -[5337.10 --> 5339.10] Oh -[5367.10 --> 5369.10] Oh -[5397.10 --> 5399.10] Oh -[5399.10 --> 5401.10] Oh -[5401.10 --> 5403.10] Oh -[5403.10 --> 5405.10] That you are living -[5405.10 --> 5407.10] Oh -[5407.10 --> 5411.10] You -[5411.10 --> 5413.10] Shine -[5413.10 --> 5417.10] Brighter than the brightest star -[5417.10 --> 5419.10] Oh -[5419.10 --> 5421.10] Light -[5421.10 --> 5423.10] Brighter than the brightest star -[5423.10 --> 5425.10] You -[5425.10 --> 5427.10] Shine -[5427.10 --> 5429.10] Fill us with -[5429.10 --> 5430.10] Your -[5430.10 --> 5431.10] Glorious -[5431.10 --> 5433.10] Light -[5433.10 --> 5435.10] And I will -[5435.10 --> 5436.10] You -[5436.10 --> 5437.10] Shine -[5437.10 --> 5441.10] Brighter than the brightest star -[5441.10 --> 5443.10] Your -[5443.10 --> 5445.10] Light -[5445.10 --> 5447.10] Brighter than the brightest star -[5447.10 --> 5449.10] You -[5449.10 --> 5451.10] Shine -[5451.10 --> 5453.10] Fill us with -[5453.10 --> 5455.10] With -[5455.10 --> 5457.10] The brightest star -[5457.10 --> 5459.10] To follow You -[5459.10 --> 5461.10] He -[5461.10 --> 5463.10] Lord -[5463.10 --> 5465.10] para -[5465.10 --> 5465.90] Pressing -[5467.10 --> 5469.10] Fill us -[5469.10 --> 5471.10] All the support -[5471.10 --> 5473.10] To love you -[5473.10 --> 5474.72] Apply a couple people -[5474.82 --> 5477.16] to pour all into you -[5477.16 --> 5479.28] To 잘 -[5480.10 --> 5481.78] Set -[5481.78 --> 5482.76] Fiona -[5482.76 --> 5483.10] in -[5489.10 --> 5519.08] Thank you. -[5519.10 --> 5549.08] Thank you. -[5549.10 --> 5579.08] Thank you. -[5579.10 --> 5609.08] Thank you. -[5609.10 --> 5639.08] Thank you. -[5639.10 --> 5669.08] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 4 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 4 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index e7e9515c93c020ce9cf238bc5a1a8170e1964080..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 4 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,119 +0,0 @@ -• Joy of the Lord and presence in love -• Praise in heaven -• Freedom and joy in God's presence -• Healing of broken hearts and depression -• Glory and fire of God -• Heaven and rain, freedom in this place -• Being in God's presence, feeling joy and dancing -• Singing praise to Jesus and magnifying His name -• Christ magnification in personal life -• Resisting idolatry and holding fast to truth -• The transformative power of suffering and death leading to resurrection life -• Worship and praise, including a call to prayer and song -• Introduction and announcements for the community service and upcoming events -• Filling out volunteer lists for children's worship time and nursery -• Preparing for Lord's Supper on July 11 -• Preparing hearts and minds to meet Jesus at Lord's Supper -• Worship service, including a call to worship from Psalm 66 -• A hymn about the death and resurrection of Jesus -• Confession and assurance from Isaiah 55 -• Bible passages and worship songs mentioned -• Praise to God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit -• Discussion of salvation and redemption through Jesus' death and resurrection -• Call to praise and worship God's glory and majesty -• Song "Stronger" performed by kids in attendance -• Invitation for kids to participate in a kid's corner activity -• Introduction of a speaker (Hank) who claims to have benefited from Toastmasters -• Discussion of "kid's corner" in a church setting -• Interaction with children participating in the activity -• Explanation of children's worship time for preschool and kindergarten age groups -• Praying and leading a children's blessing ritual -• Preparing for worship service with congregation participation -• Practicing and saying "The Lord be with you" -• Announcement for children's worship time coordinator position -• Description of responsibilities and benefits of the role -• Invitation to serve in the ministry and work with the current leader -• Calvin Seminary prepares leaders for biblically faithful ministry through Reformed theological scholarship and counsel. -• The seminary values connections with churches across North America, including Emanuel CRC. -• Financial gifts support future leaders in preparing for church service and beyond. -• Life recovery is the focus of next week's offering. -• Gratitude is expressed for blessings received despite difficulties experienced during the past year. -• A moment of silence is requested to listen for God's guidance on hearts and minds. -• Prayer is offered for: - + Those affected by recent building collapse in Florida - + Wildfires in a nearby province - + Persecuted Christians worldwide - + Protection for missionaries and their work - + Those isolated, lonely, or suffering within the church family - + Volunteers to assist with church responsibilities as activities resume - + New grandparents (Burton Wika) and new life in general. -• Prayer for comfort and healing for various individuals -• Singing a song about worshiping God and building life on His love -• Introduction to a summer series called "Ask Anything" where questions from attendees will be answered -• Explanation of the process for submitting and addressing questions throughout the summer -• The importance of asking hard questions and wrestling with difficult answers in a community. -• Distinguishing between skepticism (good) and cynicism (harmful). -• Recognizing the value of doubt as a natural part of questioning and seeking answers. -• Warning against denial, which presumes conclusions without exploration. -• Embracing diversity of perspectives and learning styles within the community. -• Acknowledging that some questions have clear answers, while others are more debatable. -• Encouraging critical thinking and challenging individuals to form their own opinions. -• Introducing the first question of the series, based on a quote from Blaise Pascal about the existence of God. -• The concept of a "God-sized vacuum" in the heart of every person -• Pascal's quote and its meaning, including the idea of an infinite abyss that can only be filled by God -• The Christian understanding of human nature and identity as created in the image of God -• The biblical account of humanity's rebellion against God in Genesis 3 and its consequences -• Disobedience and rebellion led to humans falling out of relationship with God, but not losing their image as His creation. -• The source of human worth, dignity, and honor is being image bearers of God. -• Ecclesiastes 3:11 mentions setting eternity in the human heart, indicating a longing for something more transcendent. -• Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs theory was published in the 1940s, with self-actualization as the top level of need. -• However, Maslow later amended his theory to include a need for transcendence and experiencing something beyond oneself. -• The ultimate human experience is not internal or self-centered, but rather a longing for an experience of transcendence or connection with the divine. -• Longing for something unexplainable -• Difficulty making sense of the longing -• Paul's writing in Romans 1 on God's invisible qualities being clearly seen -• Suppression of truth by wickedness and sin -• John Calvin's concept of a "God-shaped vacuum" in human nature -• Human tendency to pridefully rely on self rather than God -• Need for comparison with God to feel the need or absence of God -• The idea of a "God-sized hole" in those who don't believe -• The concept of Calvin's illustration comparing human mind to dazzled eyes unable to see the sun directly -• The need for comparison with God to understand human limitations and reliance on Him -• The importance of recognizing one's own spiritual needs -• The challenge of knowing what one doesn't know, making it impossible to fill a perceived void without divine intervention -• Pascal's quote is often misinterpreted -• Christian faith cannot be rationalized or argued into someone who doesn't believe in God -• Depravity prevents people from seeing Jesus as the answer to their needs -• Faith is not about having the right arguments, but about being used by God for his mission and revelation -• The realization of one's own depravity can bring freedom -• Believers have received a new creation in Christ and should understand the infinite abyss of their heart. -• The unbeliever may not be convinced of the truth, but the believer will be convicted by it -• John Van Sloten's book "The Day Metallica Came to Church" explores how people search for God in various aspects of life -• Human nature is driven to find meaning and fulfillment through relationships with others, which ultimately leaves a void that can only be filled by God -• Understanding one's identity and purpose is rooted in relationship with God, making anything else a cheap substitute -• A biblical anthropology (study of humanity) is essential for comprehensively understanding human nature -• The value of human beings created in God's image -• The beauty and truth of the gospel -• Jesus' life, death, and resurrection as a demonstration of His love and righteousness -• The concept of grace and faith leading to being adorned like the bride for the bridegroom -• Obedience to God as the path to living the beautiful life -• The blossoming of God's image in humans through obedience and His grace -• The importance of making Christianity appealing to non-believers -• The power of transformation through faith in God -• The adoption as sons and daughters of God through faith -• Being transformed into the image of Jesus Christ -• Living a life that demonstrates God's love and draws others to Him -• Using one's life as a testimony to God's faithfulness -• Worship and prayer -• Singing hymns to God -• Jesus Christ as savior -• Eternal love and praise -• Amen -• Inviting congregation to stand and sing -• References to biblical concepts (e.g. lamb slain, highest praises) -• Prayer and blessing for those attending the service -• Invitation to fellowship after the service -• Blessings of God, including protection, support, and friendship -• Praise and worship of God as King of kings and Lord of lords -• Salvation and glory in Jesus Christ -• Assurance of companionship and presence in times of need or challenge \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 4 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 4 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 887f574e374f86ff15e741a40518f85281042591..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 4 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1922 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 4.00] It's the joy of the Lord -[4.00 --> 8.00] I'm in the joy of the Lord -[8.00 --> 12.00] It's the joy of the Lord -[12.00 --> 16.00] It's when the joy of me is present in love -[16.00 --> 20.00] I'm in the presence of the Lord -[20.00 --> 24.00] It's how they are praised -[24.00 --> 28.00] It's how they are praised -[28.00 --> 47.00] In heaven I praise -[47.00 --> 50.00] I'm in the joy of the joy of the Lord -[50.00 --> 53.00] Yes, I'm in the joy of the glory of the Lord -[53.00 --> 56.00] I'm in the joy of the Lord -[56.00 --> 60.00] I'm in the joy of the Lord -[60.00 --> 65.00] I'm in the joy of the Lord -[65.00 --> 71.00] Oh God, I'm in my praise -[71.00 --> 77.00] Oh my God, I'm in the joy of the Lord -[77.00 --> 80.00] See the light breaking through -[80.00 --> 94.00] All the light with the truth -[94.00 --> 98.00] Hear the sound of the wind -[98.00 --> 104.00] Let the roar of heaven begin -[104.00 --> 108.00] Can't stay silent, can't stay still -[108.00 --> 112.00] When I'm choking power, glory reveal -[112.00 --> 117.00] Oh I can't stay silent, can't stay still -[117.00 --> 121.00] When I'm feeling fire, feel the ground shake -[121.00 --> 123.00] Heaven and rain -[125.00 --> 128.00] Heaven and rain -[128.00 --> 132.00] There's freedom in this place -[132.00 --> 135.00] Every heart awakened -[135.00 --> 137.00] Everything is changing -[137.00 --> 139.00] Oh, heaven and rain -[139.00 --> 143.00] Broken hearts on the mend -[143.00 --> 148.00] All the depression must end -[148.00 --> 160.04] Broken hearts on the mend -[160.04 --> 164.44] All depression must end -[164.44 --> 168.96] All the shame and the fear -[168.96 --> 173.60] Crown away when you're here -[173.60 --> 178.76] Can't stay silent, can't stay still -[178.76 --> 183.16] When you show up in my glory reveal -[183.16 --> 187.56] Oh, I can't stay silent, can't stay still -[187.56 --> 191.26] When you feel the fire, feel the ground shake -[191.26 --> 193.42] Heaven and me -[193.42 --> 197.82] Heaven and me -[197.82 --> 202.44] There's freedom in this place -[202.44 --> 205.32] Every heart awakened -[205.32 --> 208.74] Everything is changing now -[208.74 --> 211.54] Heaven and me -[211.54 --> 215.96] Heaven and me -[215.96 --> 219.54] There's freedom in this place -[219.54 --> 229.38] My heart starts to race -[229.38 --> 231.42] And I can't contain -[231.42 --> 233.72] The feeling of joy -[233.72 --> 235.96] Being in your presence -[235.96 --> 238.20] I can't help but dance -[238.20 --> 240.44] Can't help but sing -[240.44 --> 242.48] And I don't really care -[242.48 --> 244.64] What anyone thinks -[244.64 --> 247.04] My heart starts to race -[247.04 --> 248.52] And I can't contain -[248.52 --> 251.40] The feeling of joy -[251.40 --> 253.62] Being in your presence -[253.62 --> 255.86] I can't help but dance -[255.86 --> 258.08] I can't help but sing -[258.08 --> 259.08] I don't really care -[259.08 --> 260.18] I don't really care -[260.18 --> 262.70] What anyone thinks -[262.70 --> 268.96] I don't really care -[268.96 --> 271.46] What anyone thinks -[271.46 --> 274.70] Heaven and me -[275.90 --> 279.26] Who wants you -[279.26 --> 280.14] Come in and be -[280.14 --> 281.00] Come in and be -[281.00 --> 281.68] Come in and be -[281.68 --> 282.88] Come in and be -[282.88 --> 283.34] hacer -[283.34 --> 283.72] Either it -[283.72 --> 284.84] Hubiesz -[284.84 --> 294.32] Tape -[294.32 --> 296.32] Everything is changing now. -[296.32 --> 298.32] Heaven is a. -[300.32 --> 302.32] Heaven is a. -[304.32 --> 308.32] It's been a business day. -[308.32 --> 310.32] Every heart I'm making. -[310.32 --> 314.32] Everything is changing now. -[314.32 --> 316.32] Heaven is a. -[324.32 --> 336.32] Their Christian and so on. -[336.32 --> 337.32] گ Sofia Cavell All Haven -[342.32 --> 350.32] Moi -[351.32 --> 353.82] jack -[353.82 --> 359.82] Were creation suddenly articulate -[359.82 --> 366.82] With a thousand tongues to lift one cry -[366.82 --> 373.82] Then from north to south and east to west -[373.82 --> 379.82] We'd hear Christ be magnified -[383.82 --> 390.82] Were the whole earth echoing His eminence -[390.82 --> 396.82] His name would burst from sea and sky -[396.82 --> 403.82] Then from rivers to the mountain tops -[403.82 --> 410.82] We'd hear Christ be magnified -[410.82 --> 413.82] Here we go now, just sing up -[413.82 --> 417.82] And so Christ be magnified -[417.82 --> 421.82] Let His praise arise -[421.82 --> 426.82] Christ be magnified in me -[426.82 --> 431.82] And so Christ be magnified -[431.82 --> 434.82] From the altar of my life -[434.82 --> 440.82] Christ be magnified in me -[440.82 --> 441.82] Hey! -[441.82 --> 443.82] That's our prayer, Jesus! -[443.82 --> 452.82] When every creature finds its impulse melody -[452.82 --> 458.82] And every human heart is native God -[458.82 --> 466.82] Of any one in wrath should hear the praise -[466.82 --> 471.82] We'll see Christ be magnified -[471.82 --> 473.82] Yes, this is what we're made to do, right? -[473.82 --> 474.82] We're right here -[474.82 --> 475.82] We give you praise, Jesus! -[475.82 --> 476.82] Come on! -[476.82 --> 480.82] And so Christ be magnified -[480.82 --> 484.82] Let His praise arise -[484.82 --> 489.82] Christ be magnified in me -[489.82 --> 494.82] And so Christ be magnified -[494.82 --> 497.82] From the altar of my life -[497.82 --> 498.82] From the altar of my life -[498.82 --> 504.82] Christ be magnified in me -[504.82 --> 507.82] I wanna be whole -[507.82 --> 509.82] I wanna be sanctified, Jesus -[509.82 --> 514.82] Burning me, Jesus -[514.82 --> 517.82] But I won't bow to eyes -[517.82 --> 522.82] I'll stand strong to worship You -[522.82 --> 526.82] And if it puts me in the fire -[526.82 --> 529.82] I'll rejoice, cause You're there too -[529.82 --> 532.82] I won't be formed by feelings -[532.82 --> 535.82] I'll hold fast to what is true -[535.82 --> 539.82] And if the cross brings transformation -[539.82 --> 542.82] Then I'll be crucified with You -[542.82 --> 546.82] Cause death is just the doorway -[546.82 --> 549.82] Into resurrection life -[549.82 --> 552.82] And if I join You in the suffering -[552.82 --> 555.82] Then I'll turn You when You rise -[555.82 --> 559.82] And when You return in glory -[559.82 --> 562.82] With all the angels and the Savior -[562.82 --> 566.82] My heart will still be seen -[566.82 --> 567.82] My song -[567.82 --> 568.82] Let's sing it again -[568.82 --> 569.82] I won't bow -[569.82 --> 572.82] I won't bow to idols -[572.82 --> 576.82] I'll stand strong to worship You -[576.82 --> 579.82] And if it puts me in the fire -[579.82 --> 582.82] Well, I'll rejoice, cause You're there too -[582.82 --> 586.82] I won't be formed by feelings -[586.82 --> 589.82] I'll hold fast to what is true -[589.82 --> 592.82] And if the cross brings transformation -[592.82 --> 596.82] Then I'll be crucified with You -[596.82 --> 599.82] Cause death is just the doorway -[599.82 --> 602.82] Into resurrection life -[602.82 --> 606.82] And if I join You in the suffering -[606.82 --> 609.82] Then I'll join You when You rise -[609.82 --> 612.82] And when You return in glory -[612.82 --> 615.82] With all the angels and the Savior -[615.82 --> 619.82] My heart will still be seen -[619.82 --> 622.82] My song will be the same -[622.82 --> 627.82] And so Christ be magnified -[627.82 --> 630.82] Let His praise arrive -[630.82 --> 632.82] Christ be magnified -[632.82 --> 634.82] Christ be magnified -[634.82 --> 635.82] In me -[635.82 --> 640.82] And oh, Christ be magnified -[640.82 --> 644.82] From the altar of my land -[644.82 --> 646.82] Christ be magnified -[646.82 --> 647.82] Christ be magnified -[647.82 --> 649.82] Yeah, that's it one more time -[649.82 --> 651.82] And oh, Christ be magnified -[651.82 --> 653.82] Let His praise arise -[653.82 --> 654.82] Christ be magnified -[654.82 --> 655.82] May He be magnified -[655.82 --> 656.82] Here's One more time -[656.82 --> 659.82] Let His praise arise -[659.82 --> 660.82] Christ be magnified -[660.82 --> 661.82] In me -[661.82 --> 662.82] Christ be magnified -[662.82 --> 664.82] In me -[664.82 --> 667.82] And oh, Christ be magnified -[667.82 --> 670.82] From the altar of my land -[670.82 --> 671.82] Christ be magnified -[671.82 --> 673.82] In me -[673.82 --> 676.82] Come on, give a prayer -[676.82 --> 677.82] Hallelujah -[677.82 --> 680.82] Come on, give a prayer -[680.82 --> 682.82] Hallelujah -[682.82 --> 683.32] Here we go. -[712.82 --> 742.80] Here we go. -[742.82 --> 772.80] Here we go. -[772.82 --> 774.82] Here we go. -[774.82 --> 786.82] Good morning. -[786.82 --> 788.82] Good morning. -[788.82 --> 790.82] Thank you. -[790.82 --> 792.82] Thank you. -[792.82 --> 794.82] Thank you. -[794.82 --> 796.82] Thank you. -[796.82 --> 798.82] Thank you. -[798.82 --> 800.82] Thank you. -[801.20 --> 802.82] Thank you. -[802.82 --> 804.82] Thank you. -[804.82 --> 811.00] I'm not sure like there's at least 30% of people here who I'm not sure I've connected with before so -[811.78 --> 813.78] Following our service -[813.78 --> 817.16] Please stick around and let me do that if you don't know who I am -[817.82 --> 819.96] Then we have other conversations to also have -[820.42 --> 827.52] But my name is Chris and I'm one of the pastors here and I'm excited along with these people on stage to welcome you -[827.82 --> 834.18] To worship and also to welcome you who are participating online into our worship -[834.82 --> 839.52] This morning we are super excited to gather together as a community as -[839.86 --> 842.26] We begin just a couple announcements -[842.26 --> 845.92] You already heard me say there is going to be some fellowship after the service and -[846.22 --> 849.64] We've got some coffee and I think maybe some other things made -[849.94 --> 855.26] And so please stick around for that if you would like to do that outside you can you can do that in the air-conditioned -[855.26 --> 858.36] Foyer because it's going to get warm in here. You can do that in the courtyard -[858.88 --> 864.58] Wherever you go go there with other people and just check in on them see how they're doing and connect -[864.82 --> 866.82] Share life and story together -[866.82 --> 871.46] a couple other announcements for the summer -[872.18 --> 876.58] We are going to be doing children's worship time and also providing nursery -[876.94 --> 883.04] We have filled out the children's worship time volunteer list. We need to fill out the nursery volunteer list -[883.04 --> 886.78] And so you can grab Brenda Alkema. Brenda's at the back. Brenda wave -[886.78 --> 891.90] That's Brenda you can grab her and she will sign you up so you can serve our community -[892.46 --> 897.42] Over these summer months and then we'll work all of that together starting once more launching in september -[898.70 --> 904.14] Also, just for your information and for your preparation next week sunday. That's july 11 -[904.14 --> 905.66] We're going to be having lord's supper together -[905.90 --> 909.18] And so use this week to prepare your hearts to prepare your minds talk to your -[909.50 --> 915.10] Family and friends about your life and face so that we can come to that table with readied hearts to meet jesus -[915.50 --> 923.42] There we're going to gather for worship. And so as you are able would you stand we can receive god's greeting -[926.06 --> 932.38] In the presence of god receive his welcome into this worship service -[932.38 --> 933.90] grace -[933.90 --> 934.38] grace -[934.38 --> 935.82] mercy -[935.82 --> 938.38] and peace to you -[938.38 --> 941.58] God our father -[941.58 --> 944.78] Jesus christ his son -[944.78 --> 950.10] Through the presence power of the holy spirit all god's people said -[951.02 --> 952.86] Amen, let's worship god together -[954.70 --> 959.74] Our call to worship this morning comes from psalm 66 verses 1 to 4 -[959.74 --> 965.82] Shout for joy to god all the earth sing the glory of his name -[966.38 --> 967.98] Make his praise glorious -[968.78 --> 975.66] Say to god how awesome are your deeds so great is your power that your enemies cringe before you -[976.22 --> 982.14] All the earth bows down to you they sing praise to you they sing the praises of your name -[982.62 --> 984.62] Let's worship god together -[989.74 --> 1002.78] I cast my mind to calvary -[1002.78 --> 1010.78] Where jesus bled and died for me -[1010.78 --> 1023.82] I see his wounds his hands his feet my savior on that cursed tree -[1023.82 --> 1032.86] His body loud and drenched in tears they laid her down in joseph's tomb the entrance -[1032.86 --> 1036.86] see -[1036.86 --> 1049.90] where heavenly stone -[1049.90 --> 1051.90] where heavenly stone -[1051.90 --> 1053.90] Messiah still -[1053.90 --> 1057.90] and all alone -[1057.90 --> 1070.94] O praise the name of the lord our god -[1070.94 --> 1074.94] O praise his name -[1074.94 --> 1077.98] For evermore -[1077.98 --> 1079.98] For endless days -[1079.98 --> 1081.98] For endless days -[1081.98 --> 1083.98] We will sing your praise -[1083.98 --> 1085.98] O lord -[1085.98 --> 1087.98] O lord -[1087.98 --> 1089.98] O lord our crown -[1089.98 --> 1103.02] O lord our crown -[1103.02 --> 1105.02] And on the earth -[1105.02 --> 1107.02] And break of dawn -[1107.02 --> 1108.06] Rose again -[1108.06 --> 1110.06] Rose again -[1110.06 --> 1112.06] O trepid -[1112.06 --> 1113.06] O trepid -[1113.06 --> 1114.06] O trepid -[1114.06 --> 1116.06] Where is your sin -[1116.06 --> 1118.06] Here is your sin -[1118.06 --> 1120.06] Here is your joy -[1120.06 --> 1122.06] For Christ the King -[1122.06 --> 1124.06] O trepid -[1124.06 --> 1126.06] O trepid -[1126.06 --> 1128.06] O trepid -[1128.06 --> 1130.06] O trepid -[1130.06 --> 1132.06] O trepid -[1132.06 --> 1133.10] O lord -[1133.10 --> 1135.22] O lord -[1135.22 --> 1136.22] O lord -[1136.22 --> 1137.14] O lord -[1137.14 --> 1139.10] Our crown -[1139.10 --> 1139.14] O lord -[1139.14 --> 1139.42] Ogre -[1139.42 --> 1140.70] O lord -[1140.70 --> 1141.14] Amen -[1141.14 --> 1142.06] And -[1142.06 --> 1143.22] O ten -[1143.22 --> 1143.58] Our crown -[1143.58 --> 1144.50] For endless days -[1144.50 --> 1146.26] We will sing your praise -[1146.26 --> 1147.02] And -[1147.02 --> 1148.10] O-end -[1148.10 --> 1149.10] O Lord -[1149.10 --> 1151.10] O lord -[1151.10 --> 1153.10] Our crown -[1153.10 --> 1158.40] He shall -[1158.40 --> 1159.40] We shall -[1159.40 --> 1161.66] We shall -[1161.66 --> 1172.26] In robes of white, the blazing sun shall pierce the night. -[1172.26 --> 1186.48] And I will rise among the saints, my beast's strength is on Jesus' face. -[1191.66 --> 1193.66] Amen. -[1221.66 --> 1223.66] Amen. -[1223.66 --> 1225.66] Amen. -[1225.66 --> 1227.66] Amen. -[1227.66 --> 1229.66] Amen. -[1229.66 --> 1230.66] Amen. -[1230.66 --> 1231.66] Amen. -[1232.66 --> 1233.66] Amen. -[1233.66 --> 1245.86] And blessed we will sing your praise, O Lord, O Lord our God. -[1245.86 --> 1253.10] O praise the name of the Lord our God. -[1253.56 --> 1261.64] O praise His name for heaven and the glory of the earth. -[1261.64 --> 1271.50] And blessed we will sing your praise, O Lord, O Lord our God. -[1272.50 --> 1278.42] O Lord, O Lord our God. -[1279.90 --> 1285.36] O Lord, O Lord our God. -[1291.64 --> 1297.88] O Lord our confession and assurance this morning comes from Isaiah 55 where we read, -[1298.60 --> 1300.86] Seek the Lord while He may be found. -[1301.08 --> 1303.22] Call on Him while He is near. -[1303.22 --> 1307.82] Let the wicked forsake their ways and the unrighteous their thoughts. -[1308.06 --> 1312.04] Let them turn to the Lord and He will have mercy on them. -[1312.74 --> 1316.50] And to our God, for He will freely pardon. -[1316.50 --> 1317.76] Let's sing. -[1317.76 --> 1339.80] In the darkness we were waiting, with our hope, without light. -[1339.80 --> 1347.12] Till from heaven you came run, there was mercy in your eyes. -[1347.24 --> 1354.00] To fulfill the law and prophets, to the virgin we know were. -[1354.44 --> 1360.94] From a throne of endless glory, to a cradle in the dirt. -[1360.94 --> 1381.42] Praise the Father, praise the Son, praise the Spirit, free in love. -[1381.42 --> 1395.86] God of glory, majesty, praise the King of King. -[1395.86 --> 1396.42] Amen. -[1400.42 --> 1407.76] To reveal the kingdom for you and to reconcile the lost. -[1407.76 --> 1414.50] To redeem the whole creation, you did not despise the cross. -[1414.50 --> 1421.38] For even in your suffering, you talked to the other side. -[1421.66 --> 1428.50] Knowing this was our salvation, Jesus for us if you died. -[1428.50 --> 1444.38] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, praise the Son, praise the Spirit, -[1444.38 --> 1448.38] We are now -[1448.38 --> 1454.38] God of glory, majesty -[1454.38 --> 1461.38] Praise forever to the King of King -[1462.38 --> 1470.44] And the morning that you rose -[1470.44 --> 1473.38] All of heaven held its breath -[1473.38 --> 1477.38] Till the storm was moved for good -[1477.38 --> 1481.38] For the Lamb had conquered death -[1481.38 --> 1484.38] And the dead rose from their tombs -[1484.38 --> 1488.38] And the angels stood in awe -[1488.38 --> 1491.38] For the souls of all who come -[1491.38 --> 1495.38] To the Father who restored -[1495.38 --> 1498.38] And the church of Christ was born -[1498.38 --> 1502.38] Heaven is here and yet so full -[1502.38 --> 1505.38] God is blessed to the Lord -[1505.38 --> 1508.38] Share my name, share my faith -[1508.38 --> 1512.38] God is blind and in His name -[1512.38 --> 1515.38] In His reign, in my every -[1515.38 --> 1519.38] God of glory, God of glory, God of glory -[1519.38 --> 1521.38] God of glory, Jesus Christ -[1521.38 --> 1527.38] Jesus Christ -[1527.38 --> 1531.38] Jesus Christ -[1531.38 --> 1537.38] Praise the Father, praise the King -[1537.38 --> 1539.38] Praise the Father, praise the King -[1539.38 --> 1541.38] And the King of King -[1541.38 --> 1551.38] God of glory, God of glory, God of glory -[1551.38 --> 1561.38] For the King of glory, God of glory, God of glory -[1561.38 --> 1568.38] And Him, and He yet -[1568.38 --> 1576.20] God of glory, majesty. -[1577.88 --> 1584.38] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[1585.06 --> 1592.46] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[1592.46 --> 1599.68] Our next song is one of the kids' favorites, I think. -[1599.78 --> 1600.82] It's called Stronger. -[1601.24 --> 1603.66] So for those of you kids that remember the actions, -[1603.98 --> 1605.18] I'd love to see them. -[1622.46 --> 1638.66] There is love that came for us, -[1639.10 --> 1643.54] Humbled to the sinner's cross. -[1643.96 --> 1647.46] He broke my shame and sinfulness. -[1647.46 --> 1653.62] He rose again and tore in love. -[1656.56 --> 1660.96] Joyfulness none can deny. -[1661.80 --> 1666.16] Through the storm and through the fire, -[1666.78 --> 1671.46] There is truth that sets me free, -[1671.46 --> 1676.78] Jesus Christ who lives in me. -[1677.46 --> 1683.98] You are stronger, you are stronger, -[1684.56 --> 1689.14] Sin is broken, you have saved me. -[1689.54 --> 1693.94] He is broken, Christ is broken, -[1693.94 --> 1699.50] Jesus who is the Lord of all. -[1699.50 --> 1704.52] You're敢 closer, you are stronger, You are stronger, -[1704.52 --> 1708.54] You are stronger, you are stronger, You are stronger, You are stronger, oh. -[1708.54 --> 1709.88] You are stronger, you are stronger, you are stronger, -[1709.94 --> 1712.34] You are stronger, you are stronger, you are stronger, you are stronger, you are stronger. -[1712.34 --> 1716.30] My hope and my difference -[1716.30 --> 1721.48] He came to see and save us -[1721.48 --> 1727.94] He faded off upon the cross -[1727.94 --> 1734.12] You are stronger, you are stronger -[1734.12 --> 1739.40] Sin is broken, you have saved me -[1739.40 --> 1744.18] He is risen, Christ is risen -[1744.18 --> 1750.50] Jesus, you are Lord of all -[1750.50 --> 1760.32] So let your name be lifted higher -[1760.32 --> 1767.72] So let your name be lifted higher -[1767.72 --> 1781.34] So let your name be lifted higher -[1781.34 --> 1786.10] So let your name be lifted higher -[1786.10 --> 1803.74] You are stronger, you are stronger, sin is broken, you have saved me. -[1803.74 --> 1813.84] It is risen, Christ is risen, Jesus, you are Lord of all. -[1813.84 --> 1823.66] You are stronger, you are stronger, sin is broken, you have saved me. -[1823.66 --> 1834.56] It is risen, Christ is risen, Jesus, you are Lord of all. -[1835.56 --> 1836.78] You may have a seat. -[1836.78 --> 1848.00] I'm going to invite all of the kids. -[1848.00 --> 1853.54] You can come forward and come sit down here at the front somewhere, nice and safe. -[1854.00 --> 1857.82] I'm going to sit up here and we're going to do a little kid's corner, okay? -[1857.96 --> 1860.52] So come find a nice spot on the floor in front. -[1860.62 --> 1864.02] We've got lots of room, so come on down. -[1864.14 --> 1865.82] If you're comfortable, you don't have to. -[1865.82 --> 1868.50] I don't want to force anyone, but look at this. -[1868.58 --> 1869.80] We have people here. -[1870.42 --> 1872.14] This is so great. -[1874.14 --> 1874.98] All right. -[1875.80 --> 1876.96] Should we do some kid's corner? -[1878.34 --> 1878.76] Hey! -[1880.60 --> 1883.46] Look who it is! -[1884.38 --> 1885.54] Who is this? -[1886.52 --> 1887.62] Hi, everybody! -[1888.74 --> 1891.20] Hank, you seem so much less nervous today. -[1891.56 --> 1892.80] I am! -[1893.34 --> 1893.94] Why, Hank? -[1893.94 --> 1895.78] I went to Toastmasters! -[1897.42 --> 1897.82] Toastmasters? -[1897.94 --> 1900.58] I'm not positive that's completely helpful for this situation. -[1900.76 --> 1901.70] Well, it helped me! -[1902.18 --> 1902.78] That's so great. -[1902.82 --> 1903.64] Who do we have here? -[1904.20 --> 1906.04] It looks like some kids. -[1906.76 --> 1907.14] Yeah. -[1907.48 --> 1908.30] We have kids here. -[1908.36 --> 1909.16] This is kid's corner. -[1909.22 --> 1910.14] We do this for the kids. -[1911.14 --> 1911.58] Oh! -[1911.58 --> 1915.30] I thought we did it for the camera. -[1915.30 --> 1916.00] I know. -[1916.10 --> 1916.56] You know what? -[1916.90 --> 1920.48] It seemed like that for a good year, but the kids were behind the camera, and so we were -[1920.48 --> 1921.22] talking to them. -[1921.64 --> 1922.04] Oh! -[1922.46 --> 1923.62] Well, hello, everyone. -[1925.80 --> 1926.88] They're really quiet. -[1927.32 --> 1928.20] They are very quiet. -[1928.28 --> 1928.90] Should we try again? -[1929.30 --> 1929.56] Yeah. -[1930.08 --> 1931.18] Hello, everyone! -[1931.18 --> 1931.66] Oh! -[1931.66 --> 1932.30] They're loud! -[1933.66 --> 1934.74] Oh, they're really loud! -[1935.30 --> 1936.66] Yeah, they are very loud. -[1936.92 --> 1937.98] It's so good to see you guys. -[1938.06 --> 1938.24] How? -[1938.32 --> 1939.24] Are you ready for the summer? -[1939.84 --> 1940.24] Yeah! -[1940.34 --> 1940.58] Yeah? -[1940.68 --> 1941.52] You're ready for the summer? -[1941.64 --> 1942.20] School's over. -[1942.28 --> 1944.88] Are you so happy that we're in church today with people? -[1945.18 --> 1946.44] Do you know there's still some people at home? -[1946.52 --> 1947.80] Should we say hi to the people at home? -[1948.40 --> 1950.66] Can we stand up for a second and wave at the camera in the back? -[1951.28 --> 1951.46] Yeah? -[1951.94 --> 1952.24] Wave. -[1952.36 --> 1953.24] Hi, everyone at home. -[1953.28 --> 1953.70] It's right there. -[1953.74 --> 1954.44] Say hi, everyone. -[1955.60 --> 1955.92] Yeah. -[1956.68 --> 1957.00] All right. -[1957.08 --> 1958.36] So we're going to do something today. -[1958.62 --> 1962.24] Some of you have children's worship time that you're going to head off into the back. -[1962.30 --> 1965.96] If you're preschool and younger, you can head to the children's worship time today, right? -[1966.02 --> 1966.32] Preschool? -[1966.82 --> 1967.18] Kindergarten. -[1967.28 --> 1967.42] Sorry. -[1967.72 --> 1968.08] Kindergarten. -[1968.18 --> 1968.62] Nora knows. -[1968.80 --> 1969.74] I should just ask Nora. -[1970.12 --> 1970.64] Nora knows. -[1971.24 --> 1973.20] So we're going to go kindergarten and younger. -[1973.28 --> 1974.66] You can go to children's worship time. -[1974.76 --> 1979.58] But before we do that, I'm going to pray, and then we're going to do the kid's blessing. -[1979.58 --> 1983.18] How many of you remember the kid's blessing, the children's blessing from before? -[1983.44 --> 1984.22] Anybody remember? -[1984.62 --> 1984.84] Good. -[1984.90 --> 1985.22] You know what? -[1985.24 --> 1985.76] That's great. -[1985.76 --> 1988.76] We're going to teach it again today because we're going to try to get into that rhythm -[1988.76 --> 1989.26] again, okay? -[1989.66 --> 1992.68] So I'm going to pray, and then we're going to do the kid's blessing. -[1992.78 --> 1993.28] I'll teach you. -[1993.34 --> 1995.34] And congregation, we have some things to learn, too, today. -[1995.94 --> 1998.82] And then we're going to go to children's worship time, okay? -[1999.00 --> 2001.98] So why don't we pray, and then we'll do that. -[2002.22 --> 2002.72] Sound good, Hank? -[2002.88 --> 2003.46] Sounds good. -[2003.58 --> 2004.22] Sounds good, kids? -[2005.06 --> 2005.42] Good. -[2005.50 --> 2005.70] Perfect. -[2005.92 --> 2006.06] Okay. -[2006.10 --> 2006.42] Let's pray. -[2007.12 --> 2011.22] Dear God, thank you so much that we are able to be in church today in person. -[2011.34 --> 2014.22] We are so grateful that the restrictions have been lifted so that we can be here. -[2014.22 --> 2016.40] Thank you for each one of these kids who's here. -[2016.50 --> 2018.14] Thank you for all the kids who are at home as well. -[2018.54 --> 2022.06] And God, we just pray that you will be near each and every one of them and help them grow -[2022.06 --> 2023.64] closer and closer to you. -[2024.10 --> 2026.16] We pray this in your son's precious name. -[2026.36 --> 2026.58] Amen. -[2027.26 --> 2027.46] Okay. -[2027.58 --> 2031.52] So for the children's blessing, we're going to stand up. -[2031.56 --> 2032.72] So we're going to stand up like this. -[2032.76 --> 2033.48] I'll come down on the floor. -[2033.90 --> 2035.08] And I'm going to put Hank down. -[2035.14 --> 2035.80] Say bye to Hank. -[2036.24 --> 2037.22] Bye, Hank. -[2037.30 --> 2038.16] Bye, kids. -[2038.20 --> 2039.06] I'll see you later. -[2039.06 --> 2041.60] All right. -[2041.74 --> 2043.40] So we're going to face the congregation. -[2044.30 --> 2045.52] And then we're going to say this. -[2045.60 --> 2048.16] We're going to say, we're going to put our hands up and we're going to say, the Lord -[2048.16 --> 2049.00] be with you. -[2049.40 --> 2049.76] All right. -[2049.92 --> 2051.42] And we're going to say that to the congregation. -[2051.42 --> 2054.84] And then the congregation, who's going to stand in a moment, are going to say it back. -[2054.88 --> 2055.12] Okay. -[2055.18 --> 2055.90] Does that make sense? -[2056.18 --> 2057.58] So want to practice to me for a second? -[2057.88 --> 2061.70] So put your hands up and say, the Lord be with you. -[2061.82 --> 2062.14] Perfect. -[2062.26 --> 2062.44] Okay. -[2062.44 --> 2063.10] We're ready, I think. -[2063.10 --> 2063.26] Okay. -[2063.48 --> 2064.38] Congregation, up you get. -[2065.72 --> 2065.92] Okay. -[2065.98 --> 2067.72] Everybody turn around and look at the church. -[2067.86 --> 2068.60] Look at all the people. -[2069.06 --> 2071.02] And put your hands up and let's say together. -[2071.66 --> 2072.26] Oh, wait, church. -[2072.30 --> 2073.02] Do you know what to say? -[2073.10 --> 2073.74] We didn't practice. -[2074.38 --> 2074.86] We do? -[2074.96 --> 2075.12] Okay. -[2075.18 --> 2075.38] Good. -[2075.48 --> 2075.64] Okay. -[2075.66 --> 2075.98] We're good. -[2076.12 --> 2076.28] Okay. -[2076.40 --> 2076.88] Okay, kids. -[2076.92 --> 2077.10] You ready? -[2077.52 --> 2077.80] Together. -[2078.08 --> 2078.82] One, two, three. -[2079.38 --> 2081.30] The Lord be with you. -[2081.88 --> 2083.34] And also with you. -[2083.40 --> 2083.68] Awesome. -[2083.78 --> 2084.00] Okay. -[2084.06 --> 2086.96] If you are kindergarten or younger, you can head off to children's worship time. -[2087.14 --> 2088.86] If you're older than that, you can head to your seats. -[2089.06 --> 2091.72] And while they're heading off, I have a quick announcement to make, too. -[2092.26 --> 2093.72] I'm going to stand over here to do that, though. -[2093.72 --> 2094.12] Is that okay? -[2095.44 --> 2096.66] Oh, we're going on stage. -[2096.76 --> 2097.76] That's what I've been told to do. -[2097.88 --> 2098.64] Follow in directions. -[2100.00 --> 2100.36] There. -[2100.42 --> 2100.96] We got a thumbs up. -[2101.06 --> 2104.16] So, as you just saw, we have kids in this church. -[2104.40 --> 2105.16] And they are lovely. -[2105.50 --> 2106.26] And they are amazing. -[2106.34 --> 2106.90] And it's awesome. -[2107.34 --> 2110.58] We are looking for a children's worship time coordinator. -[2111.24 --> 2114.78] Actually, we're looking for about two or three people to team up and be the children's -[2114.78 --> 2116.62] time coordinator starting in September. -[2116.62 --> 2120.66] A big blessing of that is you get to work with these wonderful kids. -[2120.76 --> 2122.08] There's a lot more than that, as well. -[2122.58 --> 2126.24] You'll be running the program sort of from preschool to grade four. -[2126.24 --> 2130.78] I have been sort of overseeing this for the last 13 years. -[2130.78 --> 2137.36] More importantly, my wife, Nikki, Suzanne Reesaboss, and Amanda Verkike have done it for a long time before that. -[2137.44 --> 2139.98] But all of them are stepping down or have stepped down. -[2140.20 --> 2141.94] And this is such an important ministry of the church. -[2142.22 --> 2147.58] We are really looking for two to three more people to step up to coordinate children's worship time starting in September. -[2147.58 --> 2152.36] But really starting now because then you can work with me and we can kind of problem solve some stuff for the summer. -[2152.60 --> 2154.32] Work on getting volunteers and teachers. -[2154.50 --> 2156.86] We've got a long list of people who definitely serve this ministry. -[2157.12 --> 2158.18] But they're looking for a leader. -[2158.36 --> 2163.74] So, if that is something that's on your heart, if that's something that you're sitting at home and think you can do as well, please touch base with me. -[2164.14 --> 2166.78] And the sooner the better so that we can prep during the summer. -[2167.16 --> 2173.08] If we let this wait until September or the middle of September, it's going to be a lot packed into a little amount of time. -[2173.08 --> 2178.14] So, if that's something that's on your heart, something that you think you can serve and help out with, please come chat with me. -[2178.44 --> 2179.60] This is such a wonderful ministry. -[2179.72 --> 2182.10] These kids, they're just lovely. -[2182.20 --> 2183.00] They're lovely to work with. -[2183.10 --> 2184.86] It gets you a chance to really get to know them. -[2185.18 --> 2187.08] And I promise you that will be a huge blessing to you as well. -[2187.16 --> 2189.18] So, please think about serving in that way. -[2189.32 --> 2189.60] Thank you. -[2203.08 --> 2204.90] Good morning. -[2206.04 --> 2206.98] My name is Dave. -[2207.08 --> 2209.18] I am the deacon here at Emanuel CRC. -[2210.30 --> 2211.26] Today's offering. -[2211.48 --> 2217.06] As we proceed with this morning's worship, we set time aside to give back with our tithes and offerings. -[2217.94 --> 2221.24] Today's offerings are for our church budget and Calvin Seminary. -[2221.24 --> 2224.80] From 2 Corinthians 9, verse 11 and 12, -[2225.58 --> 2230.72] You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion. -[2231.52 --> 2235.18] And through us, your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. -[2236.00 --> 2240.78] This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God's people, -[2241.14 --> 2244.76] but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. -[2244.76 --> 2252.22] Located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Calvin Seminary is a learning community in the Reformed Christian tradition -[2252.22 --> 2256.88] that forms church leaders who cultivate communities of disciples of Jesus Christ. -[2257.62 --> 2262.30] They prepare individuals for biblically faithful and effective ministry of the word -[2262.30 --> 2266.14] by offering Reformed theological scholarship and counsel. -[2266.88 --> 2272.02] Since 1876, Calvin Seminary has faithfully prepared leaders -[2272.02 --> 2275.34] who nurture disciples and serve the church. -[2276.04 --> 2281.46] At Calvin Seminary, they strongly value the many connections with churches all over North America, -[2281.90 --> 2284.08] including us here at Emanuel CRC. -[2284.90 --> 2288.36] With today's financial gifts, you will be joining Calvin Seminary -[2288.36 --> 2291.74] in preparing future leaders for the church and beyond. -[2292.62 --> 2295.86] For those of you watching today from home, -[2296.00 --> 2300.28] please refer to the church's website on the many different ways that you could give to today's offering. -[2300.28 --> 2303.38] Next week's offering is for life recovery. -[2304.58 --> 2307.44] Let us not forget how much God has blessed us. -[2307.78 --> 2310.94] Even through this last past difficult year, -[2311.64 --> 2313.84] let us share those blessings with others. -[2313.84 --> 2333.10] thanks for joining us. -[2333.64 --> 2335.16] Thanks for having me. -[2335.16 --> 2335.70] Thanks for having me. -[2335.74 --> 2335.76] Thanks for having me. -[2335.76 --> 2337.24] We'd like me to give you a little bit more gentle. -[2337.24 --> 2338.64] Perhaps50 is a little bit more time with our focus. -[2338.64 --> 2340.14] If you're with the Бог and légers, -[2340.14 --> 2341.24] thanks to everybody else. -[2341.24 --> 2341.98] Have a great day. -[2341.98 --> 2342.32] Have a great day. -[2343.84 --> 2373.82] Thank you. -[2373.84 --> 2403.82] Thank you. -[2403.84 --> 2433.82] Thank you. -[2433.84 --> 2463.82] Thank you. -[2463.82 --> 2465.82] Thank you. -[2465.82 --> 2495.82] -[2495.82 --> 2497.82] Thank you. -[2497.82 --> 2499.82] Thank you. -[2499.82 --> 2501.82] Thank you. -[2501.82 --> 2503.82] Thank you. -[2503.82 --> 2505.82] Thank you. -[2505.82 --> 2507.82] Thank you. -[2507.82 --> 2509.82] Thank you. -[2509.82 --> 2511.82] Thank you. -[2511.82 --> 2513.82] Thank you. -[2513.82 --> 2515.82] Thank you. -[2515.82 --> 2517.82] Thank you. -[2517.82 --> 2519.82] Thank you. -[2519.82 --> 2521.82] Thank you. -[2521.82 --> 2523.82] Thank you. -[2523.82 --> 2525.82] Thank you. -[2525.82 --> 2531.82] Thank you. -[2531.82 --> 2533.82] Thank you. -[2533.82 --> 2535.82] Thank you. -[2535.82 --> 2537.82] Thank you. -[2537.82 --> 2539.82] Thank you. -[2539.82 --> 2541.82] Thank you. -[2541.82 --> 2543.82] Thank you. -[2543.82 --> 2545.82] Thank you. -[2545.82 --> 2547.82] Thank you. -[2547.82 --> 2549.82] Thank you. -[2549.82 --> 2551.82] Thank you. -[2551.82 --> 2553.82] Please quiet our hearts and minds. -[2553.82 --> 2555.82] Help us to hear you now as we take a moment of silence. -[2555.82 --> 2557.82] We pray your spirit may prompt each of us, both here and at home, -[2557.82 --> 2561.82] help us to hear what you place on our hearts, people or situations of deep concern, -[2561.82 --> 2567.82] possibly a verse we have read this past week, that in this moment, we now recall and hear you speaking. -[2567.82 --> 2575.10] we call and hear you speaking let us just be silent for a moment as we listen -[2589.90 --> 2596.42] lord god we praise you for you are a holy god we thank you that you love us -[2596.42 --> 2603.08] despite our failure to be completely obedient to you we confess our sins before you and thank you -[2603.08 --> 2610.50] lord jesus for the sacrifice you made on the cross not only can we be forgiven but all who come to you -[2610.50 --> 2619.30] are made holy blameless without fault before you lord for several months prayers have been made -[2619.30 --> 2624.16] that this pandemic would end just last week we prayed that we might be able to meet together -[2624.16 --> 2630.64] here again this week lord we thank you for answered prayers although kovitz not completely over we -[2630.64 --> 2638.16] praise you that we can come together to worship you today holy holy holy is the lord god almighty -[2639.44 --> 2645.44] heavenly father as we consider what has taken place this past week we ask that you be with -[2645.44 --> 2649.20] those who suffered such terrible loss due to the collapse of the building in florida -[2649.20 --> 2655.68] help those who are digging through the rubble and those who have lost loved ones please provide -[2655.68 --> 2664.40] comfort and help we also think of those affected by wildfires here in this province especially the loss -[2664.40 --> 2671.60] felt in litem as a village was devastated by fires may people there and those helping know your hand upon -[2671.60 --> 2679.68] them lord we also pray for the millions of christians around the world that face persecution for their -[2679.68 --> 2686.88] faith in you we thank you for the opportunity we have as a church as a missions committee has encouraged -[2686.88 --> 2694.64] us to pray for and help support the organization open doors we do pray for protection as they supply bibles -[2694.64 --> 2700.24] and help with training leaders as they go into parts of this world that bring severe persecution -[2700.24 --> 2708.72] protection for their faith in you thank you that we have the freedom here to come together as we have today -[2711.04 --> 2714.80] although many have been able to join us here today we pray for those who could not -[2715.76 --> 2721.52] please be with those in this church family who are isolated lonely depressed or suffering anxiety -[2723.36 --> 2728.64] we do pray for volunteers to come forward to help out with the various responsibilities within the church -[2728.64 --> 2736.48] as group and events start back up heavenly father we thank you as we celebrate today with burton wika as -[2736.48 --> 2744.32] they became new grandparents as fiona and joel welcomed their daughter johnny elizabeth johnny elizabeth -[2744.88 --> 2754.48] yesterday we thank you too for other children born into this congregation over the past months that many of us will now have be able to see for the first time -[2754.48 --> 2763.36] today or in the weeks ahead thank you lord for these new lives lord we do remember the el hughes and family -[2763.36 --> 2770.32] in their in the passing of peter in this past week as well please be with them and comfort them lord we -[2770.32 --> 2775.36] think of ellen as she experienced a bit of a flood in her suite this past week and pray that things will get -[2775.36 --> 2781.92] back to normal there very quickly we remember ismay and thank you that she is home now and recovering well -[2782.88 --> 2787.52] we also pray that you would continue to be with bob as he goes through treatments -[2789.68 --> 2795.68] there are many concerns in our church family and we thank you that you know each of these -[2797.60 --> 2803.60] please lord hear our prayers as we spend another moment in silence to bring before you those items -[2803.60 --> 2813.92] your spirit may have placed on our hearts earlier -[2813.92 --> 2815.92] please -[2829.68 --> 2836.16] lord as chris will bring us the message shortly from your word we thank you that we can listen and we pray -[2836.16 --> 2842.88] that you would give us ears to hear you and may chris know your blessing upon him as he speaks with us -[2842.88 --> 2849.28] today we pray this in the name of our lord and savior jesus christ amen -[2854.72 --> 2869.20] please stand with us as we sing build my life -[2872.88 --> 2882.72] uh -[2882.72 --> 2887.76] oh -[2887.76 --> 2889.30] We could ever breathe. -[2892.24 --> 2896.50] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe. -[2896.80 --> 2898.30] We live for you. -[2906.44 --> 2911.04] Jesus, the name above every other day. -[2911.04 --> 2918.04] Jesus, the only one who could ever sing. -[2921.12 --> 2925.32] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe. -[2925.68 --> 2927.04] We live for you. -[2928.56 --> 2930.82] We live for you. -[2934.30 --> 2939.04] Holy, there is no one like you. -[2939.04 --> 2942.04] There is none beside you. -[2943.04 --> 2947.04] Open up my eyes in wonder. -[2948.34 --> 2956.04] Show me who you are and fill me with your heart and meaning. -[2957.34 --> 2962.04] In your mountains and those around me. -[2962.04 --> 2968.04] Jesus, the name above every other day. -[2971.04 --> 2975.04] Jesus, the only one who could ever sing. -[2978.04 --> 2982.04] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe. -[2982.04 --> 2984.04] We live for you. -[2984.04 --> 2985.04] We live for you. -[2985.04 --> 2988.04] We live for you. -[2991.04 --> 2996.04] Holy, there is no one like you. -[2996.04 --> 2999.04] There is none beside you. -[2999.04 --> 3000.04] Oh, you're not mine. -[3000.04 --> 3002.04] For you're not mine. -[3002.04 --> 3004.04] Lord, I'll love you. -[3004.04 --> 3005.04] I can serve you. -[3005.04 --> 3010.04] Show me who you are and fill me with your heart and meaning. -[3010.04 --> 3013.80] With your heart and healing -[3013.80 --> 3019.98] Give me love to Lord, love of me -[3019.98 --> 3041.74] I will build my life upon your love -[3041.74 --> 3047.36] It is a heart foundation -[3047.36 --> 3055.68] I will put my trust in you alone -[3055.68 --> 3061.24] And I will not be shaken -[3061.24 --> 3069.34] I will build my life upon your love -[3069.34 --> 3074.92] It is a heart foundation -[3074.92 --> 3088.52] I will not be shaken -[3088.52 --> 3094.10] Only there is no love like you -[3094.10 --> 3096.84] There is none desire -[3096.84 --> 3102.26] I will open up my eyes in thunder -[3102.26 --> 3106.06] And show me who you are -[3106.06 --> 3110.74] And fill me with your heart and healing -[3110.74 --> 3116.32] In your love to Lord, love of me -[3116.32 --> 3121.48] Holy, there is no one like you -[3121.48 --> 3125.04] There is none beside you -[3125.04 --> 3130.06] Open up my eyes in wonder -[3130.06 --> 3134.04] And show me who you are -[3134.04 --> 3137.64] And fill me with your heart -[3137.64 --> 3141.22] And lead me in your love -[3141.22 --> 3145.96] To those around me -[3145.96 --> 3157.24] And fill me with your heart -[3157.32 --> 3159.34] And fill me with your heart -[3159.34 --> 3159.94] And fill me with your heart -[3160.12 --> 3161.86] You've been praying i'll open for you -[3161.86 --> 3162.16] In my faith -[3162.16 --> 3163.20] You've been praying i'll open for you -[3163.20 --> 3165.04] And hear about you -[3165.04 --> 3167.20] Have I mentioned yet how I'm excited? -[3167.20 --> 3176.52] Have I mentioned yet how I'm excited to be here? -[3180.84 --> 3186.04] So, ordinarily, at this point in the service, I would come up here and I would say, grab -[3186.04 --> 3188.90] your Bibles, open them up too, and we're going to read. -[3190.26 --> 3194.64] Now, I still want you to grab your Bibles, but I want you to wait for that open them -[3194.64 --> 3195.66] up to section. -[3197.20 --> 3203.94] So, we are beginning a summer series here that we have called Ask Anything. -[3205.12 --> 3208.94] And for this series, we asked you guys to submit questions. -[3209.38 --> 3214.32] And then over the course of the summer, we will answer your questions and address the -[3214.32 --> 3218.72] things that you have asked and wanted us to wonder about together. -[3219.68 --> 3224.44] In due course, as you can imagine, this last week has been a little bit of chaos around -[3224.44 --> 3225.74] here as we try to figure things out. -[3225.74 --> 3230.80] But in due course, we will publish the list of questions and when they will be addressed -[3230.80 --> 3235.32] so that you can find your question or you can find the ones that particularly interest you -[3235.32 --> 3240.78] and you can make a point of participating in that service, either by being here or by watching -[3240.78 --> 3241.28] online. -[3242.90 --> 3248.60] Now, I really believe in the importance of asking questions. -[3248.60 --> 3253.98] I really believe the church needs to be the kind of place and the kind of community where -[3253.98 --> 3259.64] we can ask hard questions and we can wrestle with difficult answers. -[3259.64 --> 3269.00] I'm also aware, and all sorts of studies have borne this out, that the church has a bit of a -[3269.00 --> 3276.44] reputation for being the kind of place that stymies questions or the kind of place where it's unsafe -[3276.44 --> 3281.24] to ask hard questions or to wonder aloud about certain things. -[3281.24 --> 3286.10] I just want to say, as a matter of principle, not here. -[3287.38 --> 3288.30] Not with me. -[3289.00 --> 3290.40] Not in this community. -[3291.40 --> 3296.20] We will be the place where hard questions can be asked, where things can be wrestled through, -[3296.20 --> 3301.20] and we will be the kind of community that presses in to the trials and tribulations of those -[3301.20 --> 3306.24] questions and those uncomfortable places where the answers might find us. -[3306.24 --> 3311.84] But to do that, I want to make a quick distinction here by way of introduction and talk about -[3311.84 --> 3315.40] the difference between skepticism and cynicism. -[3316.80 --> 3317.80] Skepticism is good. -[3318.22 --> 3321.00] Skepticism is the means by which you ask good questions. -[3321.00 --> 3322.16] You wonder things. -[3322.30 --> 3323.08] You challenge things. -[3323.20 --> 3325.16] You dig deep into something, right? -[3325.18 --> 3328.50] We only learn new things by asking about things we don't know. -[3328.72 --> 3329.60] That's skepticism. -[3329.60 --> 3338.58] Cynicism stops the asking of questions, presumes a particular meaning, usually not a fair one, -[3338.92 --> 3343.72] and presumes that we will always be stuck in thinking that way or being that way or acting -[3343.72 --> 3344.26] that way. -[3344.26 --> 3349.62] And it doesn't help us move together as a community. -[3350.80 --> 3356.16] And so I want us to practice good skepticism and guard ourselves against cynicism. -[3356.16 --> 3359.06] Similarly, doubt. -[3359.38 --> 3360.24] Doubt is good. -[3360.58 --> 3364.76] If we didn't have doubts, we would never get answers because answers come after questions. -[3365.00 --> 3366.96] And without doubt, there are no questions. -[3368.18 --> 3371.52] Doubt is good and normal. -[3372.24 --> 3377.60] And so as a Christian person, if you've ever felt doubt and wondered, oh, I don't know about -[3377.60 --> 3380.80] this or I'm not sure what I'm supposed to do because I'm doubting and I don't know where -[3380.80 --> 3382.92] to go with that, doubt is good. -[3383.06 --> 3386.64] And so please don't experience doubt alone. -[3387.82 --> 3390.24] Come to someone and ask the question. -[3391.16 --> 3391.88] Find an answer. -[3393.24 --> 3396.44] But there's a difference, of course, between doubt and denial. -[3398.02 --> 3399.16] Doubt is good. -[3399.90 --> 3401.68] Denial already presumes a conclusion. -[3402.74 --> 3404.60] But you haven't wrestled to get there yet. -[3405.14 --> 3406.86] So don't jump to denial. -[3406.86 --> 3412.18] Well, start with doubt, start with introspection, start with good questions. -[3412.96 --> 3418.48] If I can rip a little bit on a phrase, Miss Frizzle from Magic School Bus likes to say, -[3418.90 --> 3422.08] ask questions, make mistakes, and get messy. -[3423.24 --> 3424.68] We're going to do that this summer. -[3425.90 --> 3429.70] Now, some of the answers that we give are going to be sort of biblical studies. -[3430.16 --> 3433.20] Some of the answers that we give are going to wrestle with Christian theology. -[3433.46 --> 3436.00] Some of it is going to be philosophy and worldview. -[3436.00 --> 3438.32] Some of it is going to be ethics and morality. -[3438.58 --> 3443.42] Some of it is going to be apologetics, which is just a fancy word for defending the Christian faith. -[3444.40 --> 3448.42] And some of our conversations will touch on every one of these categories together. -[3449.20 --> 3455.96] Now, what that means is some of you are going to enjoy certain answers more than other answers. -[3456.76 --> 3458.08] And that's also okay. -[3458.56 --> 3464.50] We are a diverse community with a diversity of preferences and ways of learning and engagement -[3464.50 --> 3465.06] and the like. -[3465.06 --> 3471.18] And so we're going to endure together on those things that are our least or less favorite -[3471.18 --> 3477.42] for the sake of our brothers and sisters who are really into this particular question or thing. -[3478.30 --> 3481.96] I also want to say at the outset, and this is not a caveat but a reality, -[3482.30 --> 3487.46] that some of our questions for this summer have clear and definitive answers. -[3487.46 --> 3494.76] Others of them are more debatable and well-meaning Christians can contest them and hold different ideas. -[3495.70 --> 3498.66] And so sometimes we're going to say things like, the Bible says. -[3499.54 --> 3502.86] Other times we'll say things like, we believe the Bible says. -[3502.86 --> 3510.10] And then sometimes we will say, or I will say, or whoever's up here leading, I believe the Bible says. -[3511.14 --> 3514.12] In some cases we'll hear personal testimony and experience. -[3514.58 --> 3521.34] And in some cases, or in every case, I will challenge you to think for yourselves and to continue that conversation. -[3522.20 --> 3528.30] In fact, I hope each week as we gather that you'll walk out of this series that you'll be asking more questions -[3528.30 --> 3531.96] and harder questions and you'll start wrestling with them in community together. -[3533.82 --> 3535.72] It's a value statement for us all. -[3536.24 --> 3538.52] Ask anything and ask anywhere. -[3539.52 --> 3542.88] What we start in here, I pray that you take out there. -[3545.26 --> 3547.84] And so our first question. -[3548.84 --> 3554.92] Our first question in this series actually comes from a quote which the internet attributes to Pascal. -[3554.92 --> 3561.64] Now, Blaise Pascal is a French mathematician and physicist and inventor and philosopher from the 17th century. -[3562.76 --> 3567.80] And the quote that you will find if you go online and Google it is the following. -[3568.94 --> 3574.70] There is a God-shaped vacuum in the heart of each man which cannot be satisfied by any created thing, -[3575.40 --> 3580.12] but only by God the creator, made known through Jesus Christ. -[3580.12 --> 3585.08] Now, the question that was submitted to us is as follows. -[3585.26 --> 3588.58] Is there a God-sized vacuum in the heart of every person? -[3589.78 --> 3590.52] The questioner added, -[3590.90 --> 3595.24] I recently heard that this idea is a myth because people have completely shut out God. -[3595.62 --> 3598.04] Is there a vacuum and does it matter? -[3600.44 --> 3602.68] And so, there's our question. -[3603.36 --> 3604.14] There's our roadmap. -[3604.14 --> 3612.36] Now, on closer inspection, the actual quote is more of a paraphrase, -[3612.78 --> 3615.14] and it's an idea that's not unique to Pascal. -[3615.94 --> 3620.18] But, like I said, if you Google it, the top search results will say that it's from Pascal, -[3620.52 --> 3625.46] and many notable and very intelligent people have quoted it as such. -[3625.52 --> 3632.36] In fact, not notable nor necessarily intelligent, but I've quoted it as such, being from Pascal. -[3632.36 --> 3639.10] But, if that's what you say, the internet has led you astray, because it's not. -[3639.94 --> 3643.68] Now, unlike Pastor Kevin's adage, which is that the internet always tells you the truth, -[3644.20 --> 3646.48] in this case, that's not true. -[3647.38 --> 3648.54] It is a paraphrase. -[3648.62 --> 3653.10] And so, actually, what Pascal did say, and it's a little bit longer of a quote, -[3653.22 --> 3655.40] which is why it's not memeable in the same way, -[3655.48 --> 3657.16] but what he did say is this. -[3657.16 --> 3663.50] What else does this craving and this helplessness proclaim, -[3664.34 --> 3667.48] but that there was once in man a true happiness, -[3667.80 --> 3672.20] of which all that now remains is the empty print and trace. -[3673.08 --> 3676.18] This he tries in vain to fill with everything around him, -[3676.52 --> 3680.64] seeking in things that are not there the help he cannot find in those that are, -[3680.64 --> 3687.32] though none can help, since this infinite abyss can be filled with only an infinite and immutable object, -[3687.66 --> 3689.78] in other words, by God himself. -[3691.28 --> 3696.94] So, the actual quotes, the God-shaped vacuum is called an infinite abyss. -[3697.76 --> 3700.32] Now, like I said, this quote is a little bit wordy, -[3700.42 --> 3702.06] and you probably couldn't turn it into a good meme, -[3702.14 --> 3704.16] but I actually think when you dig deeper into it, -[3704.20 --> 3706.52] it's a more beautiful quote, -[3706.58 --> 3708.82] and it presents a more beautiful reality. -[3708.82 --> 3717.92] And like I said, it picks up on a concept or an idea that other Christian writers have touched on before. -[3718.86 --> 3720.32] In the fourth century, -[3721.40 --> 3722.94] Augustine, church father, -[3723.78 --> 3724.34] he says, -[3724.70 --> 3726.78] You have made us for yourself, O Lord, -[3726.98 --> 3730.58] and our hearts are restless until they rest in you. -[3731.60 --> 3732.20] And then all the way, -[3732.44 --> 3733.52] in the 20th century, -[3733.66 --> 3734.92] C.S. Lewis said, -[3734.92 --> 3740.08] If I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, -[3740.40 --> 3745.22] the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world. -[3746.96 --> 3751.24] Now, at root, this question is a question of anthropology. -[3752.60 --> 3755.78] Anthropology is a study of what makes a person a person. -[3756.48 --> 3758.44] And so, as Christians trying to answer this question, -[3758.84 --> 3760.12] we're going to start at the beginning. -[3760.24 --> 3761.76] We're going to start in Genesis. -[3761.76 --> 3764.50] And so, since you have your Bibles at the ready, -[3766.26 --> 3767.58] three people moved. -[3767.70 --> 3767.86] Good. -[3769.08 --> 3771.44] Genesis 1, 27. -[3771.72 --> 3772.70] It will be on the screen, -[3772.96 --> 3774.58] so you do have a bit of an excuse. -[3776.68 --> 3779.48] So God created mankind in his own image. -[3779.88 --> 3781.90] In the image of God, he created them. -[3782.08 --> 3784.90] Male and female, he created them. -[3784.90 --> 3791.58] People are created in the image of God. -[3792.66 --> 3795.48] And that means that there is something of God -[3795.48 --> 3800.16] and God's character and being in us at creation. -[3801.34 --> 3805.28] In fact, if you take that story forward from Genesis 1 into Genesis 3, -[3805.62 --> 3808.52] it's that very idea that the serpent, right, -[3808.56 --> 3813.30] which is the reality present there of the devil, right, -[3813.30 --> 3816.26] that the serpent manipulates in Genesis 3, -[3816.48 --> 3819.72] the story of the rebellion and the fall of humanity -[3819.72 --> 3821.66] out of relationship with God. -[3821.74 --> 3824.76] The serpent says to Eve and then Eve to Adam, -[3824.92 --> 3828.32] did God really say you must not eat from any tree in the garden? -[3828.64 --> 3830.34] You will not certainly die, -[3830.62 --> 3832.84] for God knows that when you eat from it, -[3832.98 --> 3836.68] your eyes will be opened and you will be like God, -[3837.20 --> 3838.80] knowing good and evil. -[3838.80 --> 3841.10] What Adam and Eve seem to have already forgotten -[3841.10 --> 3844.48] is that they are already like God -[3844.48 --> 3846.88] because they're created in his image. -[3848.00 --> 3850.88] The deeper truth of this story is that they wanted more. -[3850.98 --> 3852.10] They wanted something else. -[3852.18 --> 3852.80] They wanted something other. -[3853.50 --> 3855.84] They were deceived and they deceived themselves -[3855.84 --> 3857.34] that there was another way, -[3857.44 --> 3860.02] that they believed that they had a better way. -[3861.44 --> 3864.98] They believed that there was a way other than God's own goodness. -[3864.98 --> 3868.84] And so in disobedience and rebellion, -[3869.04 --> 3871.04] they fell out of relationship with God, -[3871.42 --> 3872.84] but, and this is really important, -[3873.30 --> 3876.48] not out of his image. -[3877.86 --> 3879.46] In fact, in Genesis 9, -[3879.82 --> 3882.52] after the flood and the covenant that God makes with Noah, -[3882.96 --> 3887.48] God affirms to Noah that people are still his image bearers, right? -[3887.58 --> 3890.38] And it's the being image bearers of God -[3890.38 --> 3893.38] that is the source of our worth and our dignity -[3893.38 --> 3896.74] and our honor as humans in the world. -[3897.64 --> 3900.94] And now we can add to that idea. -[3902.22 --> 3904.62] Ecclesiastes 3, verse 11. -[3904.76 --> 3907.02] And I think this verse is critical for our understanding -[3907.02 --> 3910.06] of the God-shaped vacuum that we're talking about. -[3910.84 --> 3913.86] The author of Ecclesiastes, the teacher says, -[3913.86 --> 3917.78] he has made everything beautiful in its time -[3917.78 --> 3923.04] and he has also set eternity in the human heart. -[3924.14 --> 3927.24] He has set eternity in the human heart. -[3927.32 --> 3929.64] And I take that to mean that there is a longing, -[3929.92 --> 3932.10] there is an aching for something more, -[3932.20 --> 3932.94] for something transcended, -[3933.56 --> 3935.98] for something eternal that is outside of time -[3935.98 --> 3937.46] and the ages of history. -[3939.52 --> 3941.96] In fact, let me illustrate this point. -[3942.02 --> 3944.82] I'm going to jump to psychology and sociology for a minute. -[3945.30 --> 3952.06] This is an idea that was affirmed in the work of one Abraham Maslow. -[3952.56 --> 3954.18] Now, don't worry, we will come back to the Bible, -[3954.30 --> 3956.58] but I believe that when the Bible is right about something, -[3956.70 --> 3958.44] psychology and sociology will affirm it -[3958.44 --> 3960.42] and we will see that work its way out. -[3960.86 --> 3962.90] But we will come back to the Bible because it is the rule. -[3962.90 --> 3967.86] But in the 1940s, Maslow's hierarchy of needs -[3967.86 --> 3975.96] was published and became the sort of rule for understanding human nature. -[3976.72 --> 3979.66] In fact, when I was in university in the early 2000s, -[3979.70 --> 3982.86] we were still studying that in my Psych 101 class. -[3984.24 --> 3987.66] Maslow said that humans have five basic needs. -[3987.66 --> 3989.12] We have physiological needs. -[3989.22 --> 3991.14] That's things like breath and food and water. -[3991.34 --> 3992.66] We have safety needs. -[3992.76 --> 3994.22] That's security and shelter. -[3994.48 --> 3996.32] We have a need for love and belonging, -[3996.50 --> 3998.30] which is probably self-explanatory to you. -[3998.84 --> 4002.40] We have a need for personal and self-esteem. -[4002.78 --> 4006.04] That's confidence and respect and a feeling of worthiness. -[4006.94 --> 4012.46] And the top hierarchy of needs is what he called self-actualization. -[4013.36 --> 4015.04] Maslow said in 1943, -[4015.04 --> 4018.22] what a man can be, he must be. -[4019.12 --> 4021.44] And all of our needs are then expressed in some way -[4021.44 --> 4023.84] as a working out of these basic five. -[4025.10 --> 4027.16] Now, what people don't realize, -[4028.14 --> 4031.40] and I wasn't taught this in Psych 101 either, -[4031.84 --> 4035.02] but in 1971, Maslow amended his theory. -[4036.16 --> 4038.20] He published something called -[4038.20 --> 4039.86] The Further Reaches of Human Nature, -[4039.86 --> 4043.92] in which he noted that the original study participants -[4043.92 --> 4048.52] were not satisfied with their own accomplishments and experience. -[4048.62 --> 4051.00] In short, he noted that those who were, -[4051.14 --> 4053.62] by all assessment and account, self-actualized, -[4053.70 --> 4056.82] who had sort of hit that fifth stage of human need, -[4057.52 --> 4059.18] didn't feel fulfilled. -[4060.46 --> 4063.70] And he found that they were looking beyond themselves -[4063.70 --> 4065.90] to try and find the fulfillment -[4065.90 --> 4067.34] that they had been looking for the whole time. -[4067.34 --> 4070.80] Now, Maslow came to call this need, -[4070.96 --> 4074.82] the need for an experience of transcendence. -[4076.08 --> 4077.16] Now, he wrote, -[4077.16 --> 4098.26] So for generations, right, -[4098.26 --> 4101.48] it was assumed that the ultimate human experience -[4101.48 --> 4104.64] or the ultimate experience of being human was internal. -[4104.84 --> 4107.32] It was self-centered in self-actualization. -[4107.88 --> 4109.00] But that wasn't enough. -[4109.20 --> 4112.50] Maslow came to recognize what Augustine and Paul -[4112.50 --> 4114.08] and the teacher in Ecclesiastes -[4114.08 --> 4117.40] and the author of Genesis have long attested to, -[4117.60 --> 4120.64] that we were created for an experience of transcendence, -[4120.74 --> 4121.66] or in our terms, -[4121.66 --> 4123.86] we were created for the divine, -[4124.22 --> 4128.44] and we are restless until we find ourselves in him, -[4129.14 --> 4131.26] until we are found by him. -[4132.22 --> 4134.42] And I think you can probably call that -[4134.42 --> 4136.62] the God-shaped vacuum. -[4139.74 --> 4140.98] But there's a problem. -[4142.88 --> 4145.74] Let's look at Ecclesiastes 3, 11 one more time. -[4147.34 --> 4150.40] He has also set eternity in every human heart, -[4150.40 --> 4155.32] yet no one can fathom what God has done -[4155.32 --> 4157.56] from beginning to end. -[4158.44 --> 4160.34] And so there's a longing there, -[4160.94 --> 4162.82] but we can't fathom it. -[4163.36 --> 4164.38] We can't make sense of it. -[4164.40 --> 4166.74] We can't make heads or tails of it. -[4167.24 --> 4169.98] The longing itself isn't enough. -[4170.16 --> 4172.12] There's still something missing. -[4172.96 --> 4174.46] And again, and I think you can see this -[4174.46 --> 4176.82] in what Paul writes in Romans 1. -[4176.94 --> 4178.26] And so we're going to jump to Romans 1. -[4178.26 --> 4182.38] Paul says, Romans 1 starting at verse 18, -[4182.38 --> 4194.38] Right? -[4194.38 --> 4195.72] God has made it plain to them. -[4195.98 --> 4197.62] For since the creation of the world, -[4197.76 --> 4199.26] God's invisible qualities, -[4199.46 --> 4201.30] his eternal power and divine nature, -[4201.30 --> 4203.16] have been clearly seen, -[4203.26 --> 4204.90] being understood from what has been made, -[4205.16 --> 4206.90] so that people are without excuse. -[4207.72 --> 4207.90] Right? -[4207.94 --> 4209.32] There is something about God -[4209.32 --> 4211.04] that can be known and perceived -[4211.04 --> 4212.36] in the world around us. -[4212.42 --> 4214.36] And that perception is intended -[4214.36 --> 4216.66] to drive us towards God. -[4216.88 --> 4218.12] But notice what Paul said, -[4218.12 --> 4220.46] that people suppress the truth -[4220.46 --> 4221.80] by their wickedness. -[4222.72 --> 4224.30] That's what sin does. -[4225.10 --> 4228.18] It suppresses the truth of God in you. -[4230.24 --> 4231.30] To my mind, -[4232.16 --> 4234.10] few people have been able to communicate -[4234.10 --> 4237.50] this tensioned reality -[4237.50 --> 4239.88] as well as John Calvin. -[4240.60 --> 4242.92] John Calvin is a 16th century -[4242.92 --> 4244.66] French Christian and reformer. -[4244.66 --> 4247.98] And he begins his massive book, -[4248.16 --> 4249.68] The Institutes of the Christian Religion, -[4250.14 --> 4250.82] by saying, -[4252.02 --> 4254.34] Our wisdom consists almost entirely -[4254.34 --> 4255.14] of two parts, -[4255.56 --> 4257.18] the knowledge of God and of ourselves. -[4258.12 --> 4259.02] In the first place, -[4259.32 --> 4261.04] no person can survey themselves -[4261.04 --> 4262.92] without forthwith turning their thoughts -[4262.92 --> 4265.62] toward the God in whom he lives and moves. -[4266.26 --> 4267.60] In the second place, -[4268.06 --> 4270.18] those blessings which unceasingly -[4270.18 --> 4271.56] distill to us from heaven -[4271.56 --> 4274.06] are like streams conducting us -[4274.06 --> 4275.42] to the fountain. -[4276.10 --> 4277.16] He draws out from that -[4277.16 --> 4277.64] and he says, -[4278.36 --> 4279.34] Every person, therefore, -[4279.54 --> 4281.24] on coming to a knowledge of himself -[4281.24 --> 4283.58] is not only to seek God, -[4283.80 --> 4287.12] but is also led as by the hand to him. -[4288.62 --> 4289.80] Now you might call that -[4289.80 --> 4291.42] the God-shaped vacuum. -[4291.84 --> 4293.44] But then Calvin goes on -[4293.44 --> 4295.10] and he recognizes something deeper -[4295.10 --> 4296.46] about human nature -[4296.46 --> 4298.42] after our rebellion against God -[4298.42 --> 4299.26] and because of sin. -[4299.60 --> 4302.02] As Jeremiah 17.9 says, -[4302.02 --> 4304.30] The heart is deceitful above all else -[4304.30 --> 4305.58] and beyond cure. -[4305.80 --> 4307.02] Calvin then writes, -[4307.50 --> 4310.94] So long as we do not look beyond the earth, -[4311.46 --> 4312.60] we are quite pleased -[4312.60 --> 4314.20] with our own righteousness -[4314.20 --> 4315.54] and wisdom and virtue. -[4315.96 --> 4317.00] We address ourselves -[4317.00 --> 4318.96] in the most flattering of terms -[4318.96 --> 4321.58] and seem only less than demigods -[4321.58 --> 4323.90] to ourselves, I would add. -[4325.48 --> 4326.80] Calvin's point here -[4326.80 --> 4329.56] is that unless we look to God -[4329.56 --> 4330.46] for comparison, -[4330.94 --> 4331.58] we will never, -[4332.00 --> 4332.80] on our own, -[4333.10 --> 4334.06] feel the need -[4334.06 --> 4335.42] or the vacuum -[4335.42 --> 4337.44] of God's absence. -[4338.16 --> 4340.04] We are perfectly content -[4340.04 --> 4341.90] with what's down here -[4341.90 --> 4343.40] if only because -[4343.40 --> 4344.54] we make so much -[4344.54 --> 4345.56] of what's down here. -[4346.22 --> 4346.42] Right? -[4346.46 --> 4347.20] We make so much -[4347.20 --> 4347.86] of ourselves. -[4348.52 --> 4349.56] We make ourselves -[4349.56 --> 4350.62] and our own experiences -[4350.62 --> 4351.16] and lives -[4351.16 --> 4352.58] into our own idols -[4352.58 --> 4353.36] and we simply -[4353.36 --> 4354.76] don't know any better -[4354.76 --> 4356.90] to feel the lack -[4356.90 --> 4358.14] or the absence -[4358.14 --> 4359.00] of God. -[4360.38 --> 4361.56] Calvin uses this illustration. -[4361.76 --> 4362.72] I'm going to borrow it from him. -[4363.46 --> 4363.80] He says, -[4364.16 --> 4365.46] In the middle of the day -[4365.46 --> 4367.44] when we look around us -[4367.44 --> 4368.76] at the ground -[4368.76 --> 4369.76] to see the things -[4369.76 --> 4370.54] that we can see -[4370.54 --> 4371.52] here or there -[4371.52 --> 4372.54] or wherever it is, -[4373.30 --> 4373.42] right, -[4373.44 --> 4374.24] it's easy to think -[4374.24 --> 4376.04] that we have a really strong sense -[4376.04 --> 4377.02] of what is clear -[4377.02 --> 4378.08] and what is there. -[4378.34 --> 4378.54] Right? -[4378.58 --> 4379.56] We can see it. -[4379.56 --> 4381.62] We have a penetrating eyesight, -[4381.90 --> 4382.34] he says, -[4382.46 --> 4383.38] into the world. -[4384.16 --> 4385.34] But if you look up -[4385.34 --> 4386.06] to the sun -[4386.06 --> 4387.84] and stare at the sun -[4387.84 --> 4388.40] for a little while, -[4388.46 --> 4389.22] no, don't do that. -[4390.86 --> 4391.06] Right? -[4391.08 --> 4392.02] If you look at the sun -[4392.02 --> 4393.40] unveiled and directly, -[4394.04 --> 4394.56] Calvin says, -[4394.68 --> 4395.64] we are dazzled -[4395.64 --> 4396.46] and confounded. -[4397.42 --> 4397.58] Right? -[4397.58 --> 4398.84] You can't see anything -[4398.84 --> 4399.88] by comparison. -[4401.84 --> 4402.90] And what Calvin calls this -[4402.90 --> 4403.56] is the delusion -[4404.38 --> 4405.26] of estimating -[4405.26 --> 4406.64] the powers of our mind. -[4407.52 --> 4408.32] The idea is that -[4408.32 --> 4409.64] without comparison -[4409.64 --> 4410.36] to God, -[4410.46 --> 4411.26] we would never know -[4411.26 --> 4412.54] of our need for God -[4412.54 --> 4414.50] or on our own, -[4414.64 --> 4415.70] it's out of our reach -[4415.70 --> 4416.84] and beyond our capacity. -[4417.98 --> 4418.06] Right? -[4418.08 --> 4418.70] This means that -[4418.70 --> 4420.30] even when we recognize -[4420.30 --> 4422.28] that there is a God-sized hole -[4422.28 --> 4423.48] missing from those -[4423.48 --> 4424.50] who don't believe, -[4424.74 --> 4426.06] for those who don't believe, -[4426.80 --> 4427.74] that doesn't really matter. -[4428.86 --> 4429.38] Right? -[4429.42 --> 4429.86] They are, -[4430.02 --> 4431.36] to continue Calvin's illustration, -[4431.78 --> 4432.48] blind to it. -[4433.92 --> 4434.66] And so, -[4434.86 --> 4435.52] the question asks, -[4435.66 --> 4437.00] is there a God-sized hole -[4437.00 --> 4438.28] in the hearts of people? -[4438.68 --> 4439.20] There is. -[4439.82 --> 4440.70] You were created -[4440.70 --> 4441.66] for God -[4441.66 --> 4443.22] and to be with God -[4443.22 --> 4444.70] in relationship to God. -[4444.78 --> 4445.44] You are created -[4445.44 --> 4446.38] in his image -[4446.38 --> 4447.66] and with eternity -[4447.66 --> 4449.00] in your heart. -[4449.14 --> 4450.82] But until you know God, -[4450.92 --> 4451.72] the reality is -[4451.72 --> 4452.66] you'll never know -[4452.66 --> 4453.34] what you're missing. -[4455.64 --> 4456.68] We don't know -[4456.68 --> 4457.54] what we don't know. -[4458.32 --> 4459.76] And what you don't know -[4459.76 --> 4461.02] that you don't know, -[4461.10 --> 4461.88] you can't know -[4461.88 --> 4462.76] that you need to know. -[4462.76 --> 4464.90] We follow that? -[4466.14 --> 4466.50] Right? -[4466.54 --> 4466.96] We don't know -[4466.96 --> 4467.64] what we don't know. -[4468.66 --> 4469.92] That's self-evident, right? -[4470.12 --> 4471.10] But what you don't know -[4471.10 --> 4471.82] that you don't know, -[4471.88 --> 4473.04] you then can't know -[4473.04 --> 4474.30] that you need to know. -[4474.74 --> 4475.80] If you need to hear that again, -[4476.46 --> 4477.16] go to the live stream -[4477.16 --> 4477.58] after church. -[4479.64 --> 4480.42] Point is, -[4481.54 --> 4482.84] until God does something, -[4483.48 --> 4484.42] we'll never know -[4484.42 --> 4485.28] that there's a hole -[4485.28 --> 4486.72] that only God can fill. -[4488.66 --> 4489.76] And that's the last part -[4489.76 --> 4490.86] of the question, right? -[4491.42 --> 4492.16] Does it matter? -[4493.62 --> 4494.14] Because -[4494.14 --> 4496.32] it matters. -[4497.70 --> 4499.14] It matters so much. -[4499.20 --> 4500.48] And maybe not for the reason -[4500.48 --> 4501.36] that you might have -[4501.36 --> 4502.08] ordinarily thought -[4502.08 --> 4502.74] and definitely not -[4502.74 --> 4503.24] for the reason -[4503.24 --> 4504.38] that people usually quote -[4504.38 --> 4505.92] Pascal in that moment, -[4506.26 --> 4506.42] right? -[4506.48 --> 4507.62] People have misquoted -[4507.62 --> 4509.06] Pascal in that moment -[4509.06 --> 4509.54] because you see, -[4509.76 --> 4510.66] this isn't actually -[4510.66 --> 4511.96] about apologetics. -[4513.20 --> 4513.38] Right? -[4513.38 --> 4514.36] You aren't going to -[4514.36 --> 4515.66] convince someone -[4515.66 --> 4516.72] who doesn't know -[4516.72 --> 4517.54] God in Jesus -[4517.54 --> 4518.62] that the thing -[4518.62 --> 4519.32] that they are missing -[4519.32 --> 4519.94] in their life -[4519.94 --> 4520.88] really is a person. -[4520.88 --> 4523.02] Right? -[4523.02 --> 4523.42] That's the way -[4523.42 --> 4524.12] people normally -[4524.12 --> 4525.10] think about this quote -[4525.10 --> 4526.42] or use this idea. -[4526.42 --> 4527.50] But you cannot -[4527.50 --> 4528.42] rationally, -[4528.78 --> 4529.52] didactically, -[4529.70 --> 4530.54] propositionally -[4530.54 --> 4531.42] argue someone -[4531.42 --> 4532.62] into Christian belief. -[4532.94 --> 4533.30] Trust me, -[4533.34 --> 4533.76] I've tried. -[4533.76 --> 4535.68] Now, -[4535.82 --> 4536.70] don't hear what I'm not -[4536.70 --> 4537.50] saying, right? -[4537.68 --> 4538.62] The Christian faith -[4538.62 --> 4539.28] is rational, -[4539.62 --> 4540.30] the Christian faith -[4540.30 --> 4541.66] is full of propositional -[4541.66 --> 4542.12] truths, -[4542.32 --> 4543.60] and there are more -[4543.60 --> 4544.60] answers in the Bible, -[4544.72 --> 4545.12] I believe, -[4545.18 --> 4545.74] than in any other -[4545.74 --> 4546.12] worldview. -[4546.12 --> 4548.64] But you're still -[4548.64 --> 4549.62] not going to convince -[4549.62 --> 4550.84] someone that what -[4550.84 --> 4551.58] they're really hungry -[4551.58 --> 4552.94] for is Jesus. -[4554.40 --> 4554.58] Right? -[4554.64 --> 4555.26] Their eyes, -[4555.76 --> 4556.54] or the eyes of their -[4556.54 --> 4556.92] heart, -[4557.28 --> 4558.52] are simply blind -[4558.52 --> 4559.02] to it. -[4560.58 --> 4561.82] That's depravity. -[4562.46 --> 4563.94] That's being dead -[4563.94 --> 4564.86] in our sin, -[4565.08 --> 4566.20] as the Bible says -[4566.20 --> 4566.60] we are, -[4566.66 --> 4567.96] apart from God's -[4567.96 --> 4568.70] grace. -[4569.66 --> 4570.38] And actually, -[4570.54 --> 4571.44] this realization -[4571.44 --> 4572.48] now is freedom -[4572.48 --> 4573.72] for you and me. -[4574.18 --> 4574.32] Right? -[4574.32 --> 4574.88] Because that means -[4574.88 --> 4576.56] in our shared mission -[4576.56 --> 4577.02] with God, -[4577.06 --> 4578.02] as he sends us out -[4578.02 --> 4578.64] to the world, -[4578.88 --> 4579.04] right, -[4579.04 --> 4579.86] it's not about you -[4579.86 --> 4581.00] having the right arguments, -[4581.36 --> 4582.16] it's not ultimately -[4582.16 --> 4583.06] about you knowing -[4583.06 --> 4584.32] the right things to say, -[4584.36 --> 4585.34] it's about God -[4585.34 --> 4586.54] who uses you -[4586.54 --> 4587.62] as a vehicle -[4587.62 --> 4588.62] of his revelation, -[4588.90 --> 4589.86] who uses you -[4589.86 --> 4590.56] as a means -[4590.56 --> 4591.78] of his grace. -[4592.06 --> 4592.14] Right? -[4592.22 --> 4593.04] God's mission -[4593.04 --> 4594.54] to reach the world -[4594.54 --> 4595.36] isn't dependent -[4595.36 --> 4596.44] upon you, -[4597.44 --> 4599.04] but he uses you -[4599.04 --> 4601.02] to grow his church -[4601.02 --> 4602.50] and to reveal -[4602.50 --> 4602.96] his kingdom. -[4602.96 --> 4603.02] freedom. -[4604.14 --> 4605.12] And that is freedom -[4605.12 --> 4606.20] for those of us -[4606.20 --> 4607.10] who long to be -[4607.10 --> 4608.78] faithful to God. -[4611.02 --> 4611.54] And, -[4611.86 --> 4612.14] now, -[4612.74 --> 4613.60] if you are -[4613.60 --> 4614.68] a believer, -[4614.92 --> 4615.64] if you are -[4615.64 --> 4617.08] a new creation, -[4617.52 --> 4619.14] if you have received -[4619.14 --> 4620.28] the Spirit of God, -[4620.40 --> 4621.46] then this truth -[4621.46 --> 4622.68] about the infinite -[4622.68 --> 4623.74] abyss of your heart -[4623.74 --> 4624.78] really actually -[4624.78 --> 4626.16] starts to make sense -[4626.16 --> 4627.44] of your life now. -[4627.84 --> 4628.04] Right? -[4628.10 --> 4629.10] Your ongoing struggles -[4629.10 --> 4629.84] with sin -[4629.84 --> 4630.66] and your struggles -[4630.66 --> 4631.32] with belief -[4631.32 --> 4632.70] and with unbelief. -[4633.64 --> 4634.34] But the reality here -[4634.34 --> 4635.02] is that you will -[4635.02 --> 4636.00] never convince -[4636.00 --> 4636.94] the unbeliever -[4636.94 --> 4637.72] of this truth, -[4637.86 --> 4638.82] but you will -[4638.82 --> 4640.46] convict the believer -[4640.46 --> 4642.38] with this truth. -[4642.38 --> 4646.26] in his book, -[4646.74 --> 4647.76] The Day Metallica -[4647.76 --> 4648.52] Came to Church, -[4649.02 --> 4649.88] John Van Sloten, -[4650.52 --> 4651.08] he writes, -[4651.50 --> 4651.86] he says, -[4652.12 --> 4653.00] in all the great -[4653.00 --> 4653.94] things in life, -[4654.06 --> 4654.98] what we are really -[4654.98 --> 4655.86] looking for -[4655.86 --> 4656.66] is God. -[4657.70 --> 4658.52] And he expands -[4658.52 --> 4659.04] on this point. -[4659.12 --> 4659.44] He says, -[4659.76 --> 4660.44] in the joy -[4660.44 --> 4661.40] of a baseball game, -[4661.48 --> 4662.10] we are looking -[4662.10 --> 4662.98] for the joy -[4662.98 --> 4663.64] of God. -[4664.18 --> 4665.16] In the perfection -[4665.16 --> 4665.90] of a balanced -[4665.90 --> 4666.84] math equation, -[4666.84 --> 4667.76] we are really -[4667.76 --> 4668.34] looking for -[4668.34 --> 4668.96] the perfection -[4668.96 --> 4669.94] of God. -[4669.94 --> 4671.24] in trying to find -[4671.24 --> 4671.86] and establish -[4671.86 --> 4672.54] and maintain -[4672.54 --> 4673.28] relationships -[4673.28 --> 4673.94] with family -[4673.94 --> 4674.68] and friends, -[4675.00 --> 4675.96] husbands and wives, -[4676.38 --> 4676.76] teammates, -[4676.98 --> 4677.62] brothers and sisters, -[4677.82 --> 4678.24] co-workers, -[4678.56 --> 4679.50] whomever it is, -[4679.60 --> 4680.34] what we are really -[4680.34 --> 4681.16] trying to do -[4681.16 --> 4682.10] is fill the void -[4682.10 --> 4683.22] of that one relationship -[4683.22 --> 4684.34] that was lost, -[4684.48 --> 4685.34] the one relationship -[4685.34 --> 4686.60] that we were created -[4686.60 --> 4687.92] to be in. -[4689.68 --> 4690.88] We look for people -[4690.88 --> 4691.96] to belong to -[4691.96 --> 4692.96] so that we can have -[4692.96 --> 4693.60] a name -[4693.60 --> 4694.80] and a place. -[4695.18 --> 4696.08] What this truth -[4696.08 --> 4697.58] about God -[4697.58 --> 4698.60] and being created -[4698.60 --> 4699.46] in God's image -[4699.46 --> 4700.78] and our need -[4700.78 --> 4701.22] for him, -[4701.30 --> 4701.80] our hearts being -[4701.80 --> 4702.70] restless in him -[4702.70 --> 4703.42] until they rest -[4703.42 --> 4704.20] in him, -[4704.72 --> 4705.32] what this truth -[4705.32 --> 4706.06] teaches us -[4706.06 --> 4707.02] is that we have -[4707.02 --> 4707.88] a name -[4707.88 --> 4708.64] and we have -[4708.64 --> 4709.28] a place, -[4709.40 --> 4710.44] we have an identity, -[4710.88 --> 4711.86] we have a family -[4711.86 --> 4712.84] and our identity -[4712.84 --> 4714.22] is truly only -[4714.22 --> 4714.86] understood -[4714.86 --> 4715.88] in relationship -[4715.88 --> 4716.88] to God -[4716.88 --> 4718.12] and anything else -[4718.12 --> 4719.52] is a cheap substitute. -[4719.92 --> 4720.48] Anything else -[4720.48 --> 4721.70] won't fill the void, -[4721.94 --> 4722.64] won't satisfy -[4722.64 --> 4723.18] the hunger -[4723.18 --> 4724.00] of your heart. -[4724.26 --> 4724.82] Anything else -[4724.82 --> 4726.56] just won't do it. -[4727.58 --> 4729.58] At the beginning -[4729.58 --> 4730.26] I said that this -[4730.26 --> 4731.16] was really about -[4731.16 --> 4732.22] anthropology. -[4733.62 --> 4734.90] What we're seeing -[4734.90 --> 4735.76] is that -[4735.76 --> 4737.66] the only way -[4737.66 --> 4738.64] to have a true -[4738.64 --> 4739.96] comprehensive -[4739.96 --> 4741.10] anthropology -[4741.10 --> 4742.42] is to have -[4742.42 --> 4743.36] a biblical one. -[4744.82 --> 4745.68] Bible-believing -[4745.68 --> 4746.24] Christians -[4746.24 --> 4747.40] understand something -[4747.40 --> 4748.60] about being human -[4748.60 --> 4749.46] that no other -[4749.46 --> 4750.56] person can. -[4751.04 --> 4752.16] You are created -[4752.16 --> 4752.82] for God. -[4752.82 --> 4753.90] You are created -[4753.90 --> 4755.02] to glorify God -[4755.02 --> 4755.82] and enjoy him -[4755.82 --> 4756.36] forever. -[4756.36 --> 4757.22] You are not -[4757.22 --> 4757.86] your own -[4757.86 --> 4758.60] but belong -[4758.60 --> 4759.50] body and soul -[4759.50 --> 4760.28] to your faithful -[4760.28 --> 4760.96] savior. -[4761.16 --> 4761.80] You were bought -[4761.80 --> 4762.64] with a price -[4762.64 --> 4763.78] because beings -[4763.78 --> 4764.98] created in the image -[4764.98 --> 4765.44] of God -[4765.44 --> 4766.62] are worth everything -[4766.62 --> 4767.52] to God. -[4767.80 --> 4768.90] That is who you are. -[4770.76 --> 4771.98] And seeing this truth, -[4772.30 --> 4773.20] knowing this truth -[4773.20 --> 4773.90] about God -[4773.90 --> 4774.90] and about yourself -[4774.90 --> 4776.18] begins to -[4776.18 --> 4777.68] unveil -[4777.68 --> 4779.12] the true beauty -[4779.12 --> 4780.28] of God -[4780.28 --> 4781.46] and the gospel. -[4783.36 --> 4783.78] God -[4783.78 --> 4786.14] is beautiful. -[4787.14 --> 4787.96] That Jesus -[4787.96 --> 4788.90] lived the life -[4788.90 --> 4789.80] I should have lived -[4789.80 --> 4791.04] and died the death -[4791.04 --> 4791.60] that I deserve -[4791.60 --> 4792.50] that three days -[4792.50 --> 4793.68] later he was raised -[4793.68 --> 4794.86] victorious over sin -[4794.86 --> 4795.46] and death -[4795.46 --> 4796.88] and that by his grace -[4796.88 --> 4797.60] my sin -[4797.60 --> 4798.92] is placed on him -[4798.92 --> 4800.18] and his righteousness -[4800.18 --> 4801.98] is given to me. -[4802.38 --> 4803.32] That gospel -[4803.32 --> 4804.94] is beautiful -[4804.94 --> 4806.80] and you -[4806.80 --> 4808.84] get to -[4808.84 --> 4809.80] see -[4809.80 --> 4810.70] that -[4810.70 --> 4811.64] beauty. -[4812.36 --> 4813.40] You get to -[4813.40 --> 4813.96] be -[4813.96 --> 4814.98] that -[4814.98 --> 4815.94] beauty. -[4816.94 --> 4817.84] By grace -[4817.84 --> 4818.76] through faith -[4818.76 --> 4819.34] you -[4819.34 --> 4820.78] are the bride -[4820.78 --> 4821.54] beautifully -[4821.54 --> 4822.40] adorned -[4822.40 --> 4823.54] for the bridegroom -[4823.54 --> 4825.70] and if the beautiful -[4825.70 --> 4826.96] life is defined -[4826.96 --> 4828.10] by being in -[4828.10 --> 4828.48] Jesus -[4828.48 --> 4829.36] by this relationship -[4829.36 --> 4829.74] to God -[4829.74 --> 4830.78] then the beautiful -[4830.78 --> 4831.94] life looks -[4831.94 --> 4832.84] like living -[4832.84 --> 4833.96] as Jesus -[4833.96 --> 4834.86] lived. -[4835.42 --> 4836.14] Obedience -[4836.14 --> 4836.60] to God -[4836.60 --> 4837.72] radical obedience -[4837.72 --> 4839.02] while the world -[4839.02 --> 4840.34] thinks it's impossible -[4840.34 --> 4841.24] and will never -[4841.24 --> 4842.08] understand it -[4842.08 --> 4843.02] they think it's -[4843.02 --> 4844.02] ludicrous and crazy -[4844.02 --> 4846.20] that's actually -[4846.20 --> 4847.56] the beautiful -[4847.56 --> 4848.30] life you were -[4848.30 --> 4848.78] created -[4848.78 --> 4850.24] to live. -[4851.88 --> 4852.24] Obedience -[4852.24 --> 4852.60] to God -[4852.60 --> 4852.80] you see -[4852.80 --> 4853.60] isn't a burden -[4853.60 --> 4854.44] it is a -[4854.44 --> 4855.20] blossoming -[4855.20 --> 4856.44] of his image -[4856.44 --> 4857.02] in you -[4857.02 --> 4858.16] and his grace -[4858.16 --> 4859.36] through you -[4859.36 --> 4861.84] and that beauty -[4861.84 --> 4863.76] is affective -[4863.76 --> 4865.40] notice I said -[4865.40 --> 4866.20] affective -[4866.20 --> 4867.14] not effective -[4867.14 --> 4867.60] that is -[4867.60 --> 4868.40] it speaks -[4868.40 --> 4869.06] to the heart -[4869.06 --> 4870.26] that beauty -[4870.26 --> 4871.22] and the beauty -[4871.22 --> 4871.76] of Jesus -[4871.76 --> 4872.46] disciples -[4872.46 --> 4873.90] and his church -[4873.90 --> 4875.26] is the beauty -[4875.26 --> 4876.10] that God uses -[4876.10 --> 4877.26] to open eyes -[4877.26 --> 4878.08] and hearts -[4878.08 --> 4879.62] people may never -[4879.62 --> 4880.70] see the hole -[4880.70 --> 4881.40] in their hearts -[4881.40 --> 4882.08] that only God -[4882.08 --> 4882.56] can fill -[4882.56 --> 4883.54] but they will -[4883.54 --> 4884.56] see the beauty -[4884.56 --> 4885.46] of those -[4885.46 --> 4886.04] who have been -[4886.04 --> 4886.74] filled by God -[4886.74 --> 4887.06] amen -[4887.06 --> 4890.46] Pascal goes -[4890.46 --> 4891.02] on to say -[4891.02 --> 4893.18] men despise -[4893.18 --> 4893.62] religion -[4893.62 --> 4895.12] they hate it -[4895.12 --> 4895.86] and are afraid -[4895.86 --> 4896.76] it may be true -[4896.76 --> 4898.26] the cure for this -[4898.26 --> 4899.38] is to make it -[4899.38 --> 4900.10] attractive -[4900.10 --> 4902.78] make good men -[4902.78 --> 4903.88] wish it were true -[4903.88 --> 4904.54] and then -[4904.54 --> 4905.40] show -[4905.40 --> 4906.78] that it is -[4906.78 --> 4909.08] you were -[4909.08 --> 4909.80] made -[4909.80 --> 4910.74] for -[4910.74 --> 4911.96] God -[4911.96 --> 4913.40] you are -[4913.40 --> 4914.24] made -[4914.24 --> 4915.42] beautiful -[4915.42 --> 4916.80] by the gospel -[4916.80 --> 4918.24] go -[4918.24 --> 4919.80] and show -[4919.80 --> 4920.32] the world -[4920.32 --> 4921.78] what it is -[4921.78 --> 4922.06] missing -[4922.06 --> 4922.74] go -[4922.74 --> 4923.44] and show -[4923.44 --> 4923.98] the world -[4923.98 --> 4924.66] who -[4924.66 --> 4926.08] it is -[4926.08 --> 4926.40] missing -[4926.40 --> 4927.56] amen -[4927.56 --> 4928.62] let's pray -[4928.62 --> 4929.00] together -[4929.00 --> 4937.26] God of -[4937.26 --> 4937.72] all -[4937.72 --> 4938.74] glory -[4938.74 --> 4940.82] you've -[4940.82 --> 4941.76] revealed -[4941.76 --> 4942.20] yourself -[4942.20 --> 4943.02] to us -[4943.02 --> 4943.98] in your -[4943.98 --> 4944.30] word -[4944.30 --> 4945.86] you have -[4945.86 --> 4946.46] transformed -[4946.46 --> 4946.80] us -[4946.80 --> 4947.06] by the -[4947.06 --> 4947.34] power -[4947.34 --> 4948.02] of your -[4948.02 --> 4948.54] spirit -[4948.54 --> 4949.56] by grace -[4949.56 --> 4950.28] through faith -[4950.28 --> 4951.12] we are -[4951.12 --> 4951.64] a new -[4951.64 --> 4952.46] creation -[4952.46 --> 4953.06] by grace -[4953.06 --> 4953.58] through faith -[4953.58 --> 4954.10] we are -[4954.10 --> 4954.88] adopted -[4954.88 --> 4955.50] as sons -[4955.50 --> 4956.02] and daughters -[4956.02 --> 4956.58] by grace -[4956.58 --> 4957.12] through faith -[4957.12 --> 4957.46] we are -[4957.46 --> 4957.98] heirs of -[4957.98 --> 4958.24] God -[4958.24 --> 4958.92] and co-heirs -[4958.92 --> 4959.76] with Christ -[4959.76 --> 4960.32] by grace -[4960.32 --> 4960.92] through faith -[4960.92 --> 4961.88] we are being -[4961.88 --> 4962.48] transformed -[4962.48 --> 4963.18] from one -[4963.18 --> 4963.76] degree of -[4963.76 --> 4964.12] glory -[4964.12 --> 4964.80] to another -[4964.80 --> 4965.46] transformed -[4965.46 --> 4966.02] into the -[4966.02 --> 4966.56] image of -[4966.56 --> 4967.30] Jesus Christ -[4967.30 --> 4967.92] your son -[4967.92 --> 4968.78] and our -[4968.78 --> 4969.14] savior -[4969.14 --> 4969.90] and so -[4969.90 --> 4970.38] now -[4970.38 --> 4970.86] Lord -[4970.86 --> 4971.52] God -[4971.52 --> 4972.46] send us -[4972.46 --> 4972.96] out -[4972.96 --> 4974.04] in power -[4974.04 --> 4974.98] send us -[4974.98 --> 4975.32] out -[4975.32 --> 4975.80] to live -[4975.80 --> 4976.20] such -[4976.20 --> 4976.64] good -[4976.64 --> 4977.12] lives -[4977.12 --> 4977.74] in the -[4977.74 --> 4977.96] world -[4977.96 --> 4978.30] that though -[4978.30 --> 4978.72] it doesn't -[4978.72 --> 4979.16] make any -[4979.16 --> 4979.52] sense -[4979.52 --> 4980.22] to anyone -[4980.22 --> 4980.70] who doesn't -[4980.70 --> 4981.04] know you -[4981.04 --> 4981.62] there is -[4981.62 --> 4982.14] something -[4982.14 --> 4982.96] compelling -[4982.96 --> 4984.80] and affective -[4984.80 --> 4986.34] about you -[4986.34 --> 4988.96] and then -[4988.96 --> 4989.44] use us -[4989.44 --> 4989.92] we pray -[4989.92 --> 4992.02] use us -[4992.02 --> 4992.48] we pray -[4992.48 --> 4992.90] to draw -[4992.90 --> 4993.46] others -[4993.46 --> 4994.60] to you -[4994.60 --> 4996.54] that by our -[4996.54 --> 4996.98] lives -[4996.98 --> 4997.44] by our -[4997.44 --> 4997.86] words -[4997.86 --> 4998.30] by our -[4998.30 --> 4999.30] testimonies -[4999.30 --> 5000.24] of your -[5000.24 --> 5001.22] faithfulness -[5001.22 --> 5002.60] we would -[5002.60 --> 5002.92] see your -[5002.92 --> 5003.18] church -[5003.18 --> 5003.50] grown -[5003.50 --> 5004.64] and your -[5004.64 --> 5005.08] kingdom -[5005.08 --> 5005.90] come -[5005.90 --> 5006.76] and coming -[5006.76 --> 5007.54] revealed -[5007.54 --> 5009.32] we pray -[5009.32 --> 5009.78] this all -[5009.78 --> 5010.56] in the name -[5010.56 --> 5011.12] of Jesus -[5011.12 --> 5011.76] Christ -[5011.76 --> 5012.64] our savior -[5012.64 --> 5014.12] and all -[5014.12 --> 5014.38] God's -[5014.38 --> 5014.88] people said -[5014.88 --> 5016.30] amen -[5016.30 --> 5022.32] please stand -[5022.32 --> 5022.70] with us -[5022.70 --> 5023.36] as we sing -[5023.36 --> 5023.92] be unto -[5023.92 --> 5024.48] your name -[5024.48 --> 5041.78] we are -[5041.78 --> 5042.78] a moment -[5042.78 --> 5045.38] you are -[5045.38 --> 5046.56] forever -[5046.56 --> 5049.54] Lord of the -[5049.54 --> 5050.44] ages -[5050.44 --> 5052.52] God before -[5052.52 --> 5054.60] time -[5054.60 --> 5056.94] we are -[5056.94 --> 5057.94] a favor -[5057.94 --> 5060.76] you are -[5060.76 --> 5061.82] eternal -[5061.82 --> 5063.72] love -[5063.72 --> 5065.64] everlasting -[5065.64 --> 5067.72] reigning -[5067.72 --> 5068.76] on -[5068.76 --> 5070.06] night -[5070.06 --> 5074.02] holy -[5074.02 --> 5075.94] holy -[5075.94 --> 5077.18] park -[5077.18 --> 5077.20] park -[5077.20 --> 5077.86] on -[5077.86 --> 5078.14] and -[5078.14 --> 5079.36] worthy -[5079.36 --> 5083.48] is -[5083.48 --> 5084.10] the -[5084.10 --> 5084.70] lamb -[5084.70 --> 5085.32] who -[5085.32 --> 5085.90] was -[5085.90 --> 5087.24] slain -[5087.24 --> 5089.24] highest -[5089.24 --> 5090.92] praises -[5090.92 --> 5092.14] on -[5092.14 --> 5092.70] earth -[5092.70 --> 5093.32] and -[5093.32 --> 5094.24] glory -[5094.24 --> 5096.44] be -[5096.44 --> 5097.32] unto -[5097.32 --> 5098.64] your -[5098.64 --> 5099.86] name -[5099.86 --> 5103.74] we -[5103.74 --> 5104.28] unto -[5104.28 --> 5106.16] your -[5106.16 --> 5107.28] name -[5107.28 --> 5110.28] we -[5110.28 --> 5111.28] are -[5111.28 --> 5111.84] the -[5111.84 --> 5112.56] broken -[5112.56 --> 5113.94] you -[5113.94 --> 5115.16] are -[5115.16 --> 5115.66] the -[5115.66 --> 5116.66] earth -[5116.66 --> 5117.96] Jesus -[5117.96 --> 5119.28] redeemed -[5119.28 --> 5120.28] you -[5120.28 --> 5121.48] right -[5121.48 --> 5122.32] here to -[5122.32 --> 5123.28] save -[5123.28 --> 5125.16] you -[5125.16 --> 5126.16] are -[5126.16 --> 5126.66] the -[5126.66 --> 5126.94] song -[5126.94 --> 5127.64] song -[5127.64 --> 5128.74] we'll -[5128.74 --> 5129.70] sing -[5129.70 --> 5130.20] forever -[5130.20 --> 5130.74] and -[5130.74 --> 5131.24] our -[5131.24 --> 5131.70] day -[5131.70 --> 5133.56] bowing -[5133.56 --> 5134.36] for -[5134.36 --> 5135.14] you -[5135.14 --> 5136.40] blessing -[5136.40 --> 5137.28] your -[5137.28 --> 5138.70] day -[5138.70 --> 5142.52] holy -[5142.52 --> 5144.28] holy -[5144.28 --> 5145.18] your -[5145.18 --> 5145.86] heart -[5145.86 --> 5147.18] almighty -[5147.18 --> 5149.36] worthy -[5149.36 --> 5150.36] is -[5150.36 --> 5151.74] the -[5151.74 --> 5152.36] man -[5152.36 --> 5152.94] who -[5152.94 --> 5153.50] was -[5153.50 --> 5154.68] there -[5154.68 --> 5159.36] willkommen -[5160.54 --> 5161.06] guest -[5161.06 --> 5162.06] from -[5162.06 --> 5162.16] of -[5162.16 --> 5162.36] america -[5162.36 --> 5163.10] chamber -[5163.10 --> 5163.14] and -[5163.20 --> 5163.28] half -[5163.28 --> 5164.06] with -[5164.06 --> 5165.22] sold -[5165.22 --> 5166.00] with -[5166.00 --> 5167.60] in -[5167.60 --> 5167.96] oar -[5167.96 --> 5168.90] othe -[5168.90 --> 5175.26] his -[5176.64 --> 5177.46] Bunny -[5177.46 --> 5179.04] holy -[5179.04 --> 5179.50] j -[5179.92 --> 5179.96] Гос -[5179.96 --> 5180.02] father -[5180.02 --> 5181.58] مس -[5181.58 --> 5183.06] Size -[5183.06 --> 5183.18] Tra出 -[5183.18 --> 5183.92] i -[5183.92 --> 5184.50] father -[5184.50 --> 5189.68] The end of the world was slain. -[5189.68 --> 5196.52] The highest praises of all glory. -[5197.66 --> 5201.68] Be unto your name. -[5203.72 --> 5208.52] Be unto your name. -[5214.50 --> 5230.84] As you go this week, know that God goes with you and in you out into the world through you. -[5231.54 --> 5239.12] Please be invited to stick around for fellowship here or there or even further back there, following our service. -[5239.12 --> 5247.42] If you are not yet comfortable to do that, we totally understand and we pray that you would be blessed on your way out as well. -[5247.86 --> 5250.26] Receive the blessing of our God. -[5252.02 --> 5255.28] May God go before you to lead you. -[5256.00 --> 5258.54] May God go behind you to guard you. -[5259.38 --> 5264.58] May God go beneath you to support you and may God go beside you to befriend you. -[5264.88 --> 5266.94] Do not be afraid. -[5266.94 --> 5269.80] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5270.14 --> 5271.66] Do not be afraid. -[5272.58 --> 5277.16] But go in peace, love, and serve the Lord. -[5278.46 --> 5279.20] Amen. -[5279.20 --> 5294.36] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[5294.74 --> 5297.28] He is wonderful. -[5297.28 --> 5308.30] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[5308.30 --> 5311.26] He is wonderful. -[5311.26 --> 5322.78] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[5322.78 --> 5325.54] He is wonderful. -[5325.54 --> 5336.78] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[5336.78 --> 5338.78] He is wonderful. -[5338.78 --> 5339.94] He is wonderful. -[5339.94 --> 5341.88] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[5341.88 --> 5342.78] He is wonderful. -[5342.78 --> 5343.78] Hallelujah. -[5343.78 --> 5348.00] Salvation and glory. -[5348.00 --> 5349.20] And the Lord of lords. -[5349.20 --> 5351.06] He is wonderful. -[5351.06 --> 5354.06] He is wonderful. -[5354.06 --> 5358.06] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[5358.06 --> 5376.28] Great is he who's a King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[5376.28 --> 5383.06] He is wonderful. -[5383.06 --> 5385.14] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[5385.14 --> 5390.98] Alleluia, salvation and glory, -[5391.62 --> 5394.32] and honor and power, -[5394.86 --> 5397.94] you are wonderful. -[5415.14 --> 5445.12] Alleluia, salvation and glory, -[5445.14 --> 5475.12] and honor and glory, -[5475.14 --> 5505.12] and honor and glory, -[5505.14 --> 5535.12] and honor and glory, -[5535.14 --> 5542.74] There is no other name but the name that is Jesus -[5542.74 --> 5549.94] He who was and still is and will be through it all -[5549.94 --> 5555.52] So come on me in the space between -[5555.52 --> 5559.08] All the things unseen and this reckoning -[5559.08 --> 5564.46] I know I will never be alone -[5564.46 --> 5568.22] There will be another in the fire -[5568.22 --> 5571.76] Standing next to me -[5571.76 --> 5576.10] There will be another in the woods -[5576.10 --> 5579.18] Holding back the seas -[5579.18 --> 5582.84] And surely heaven needs reminding -[5582.84 --> 5586.26] How good you've been to me -[5586.26 --> 5590.30] I'll count the joy come every battle -[5590.30 --> 5593.78] Cause I know that's where you'll be -[5593.78 --> 5597.74] There is another in the fire -[5597.74 --> 5601.28] There is another in the fire -[5601.28 --> 5605.02] There is another in the fire -[5605.02 --> 5608.98] There is another in the fire -[5608.98 --> 5616.44] God of creation -[5616.44 --> 5631.20] God of creation -[5631.20 --> 5633.98] There at the start -[5633.98 --> 5637.44] Before the beginning of time -[5637.44 --> 5646.74] With no point of reference -[5646.74 --> 5649.20] You spoke to the dark -[5649.20 --> 5652.62] And fleshed out the wonder of life -[5652.62 --> 5658.92] And as you speak -[5658.92 --> 5666.38] A hundred billion galaxies are born -[5666.38 --> 5672.38] In the vapor of your breath -[5672.38 --> 5674.80] The planets hold -[5674.80 --> 5679.72] And if the stars are made to worship -[5679.72 --> 5681.68] So will I -[5681.68 --> 5686.48] I can see your heart -[5686.48 --> 5688.88] In everything you made -[5688.88 --> 5693.76] Every burning star -[5693.76 --> 5695.80] Signaled fire -[5695.80 --> 5702.26] And if creation sings your praises -[5702.26 --> 5704.10] So will I -[5704.10 --> 5721.98] You adelante diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 9, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 9, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ec94ce50d1f177cba240e2af32dd1723ef92d9fd..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 9, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,105 +0,0 @@ -• Praise and worship to the King of kings -• Introduction to today's special offering for the Benevolence Fund -• Description of the Benevolence Fund and its purpose -• Song: "You've Never Failed" (with multiple iterations) -• Children's worship time for ages 3-5 -• Church family prayer led by Eric, an elder at Emmanuel -• Prayers for several individuals and their families, including: - + Micah and Jane Closterhoff on their recent marriage - + Elise Wagner, who has no cancer after biopsy results - + Si Visser, who has completed chemo treatments and is starting immunotherapy - + Ellen White, who was transferred to Langley Memorial Hospital for rehabilitation - + Class Tessa maker, who is in Langley Memorial Hospital with health concerns - + Marguerite shown, who will have surgery later this month - + Rose Vita, who suffers from an immune disease -• Summer series on faith heroes in the Bible and personal lives -• Reading of Genesis 4:1-16 about Abel -• The story of Cain and Abel begins with a birth announcement for Cain -• Cain worked the soil while Abel kept flocks, and they both brought offerings to God -• God looked favorably upon Abel's offering but not Cain's, leading to Cain's anger -• God warns Cain that sin is at his door and he must rule over it, or it will consume him -• Cain kills Abel in a field -• God condemns Cain and puts a mark on him so that no one will kill him -• The story of Cain and Abel is significant because the names "Cain" and "Abel" have meanings related to birth and breath/vanity -• The story of Cain and Abel and their offerings to God -• Why God accepted Abel's offering but not Cain's -• Debate among Bible scholars on the reasons for God's acceptance -• Comparison between the two offerings and parallel with Leviticus 3 and 2 -• The problem with interpreting God's displeasure as being due to the quality of the offering -• Discussion of Leviticus 2 and 3 -• Comparison with Genesis 4 -• Importance of faith in Hebrews 11 -• Analysis of Abel's offering and its connection to faith -• Relationship between attitude, character, and actions in approaching God -• The Old Testament emphasizes the importance of heart transformation and changed affections over ritualistic practices -• Sacrifice without transformed affections is not enough, as seen in Cain's example -• True faith involves a heart that loves God with all one's being, rather than just going through religious motions -• Many people treat God as an acquaintance or go through the motions of religiosity without truly loving and following Him -• The danger zone of Cain, where God's call is ignored -• Taking God for granted and minimizing His desires -• Ignoring parts of His call that are present in every aspect of life -• The risk of glorifying war through art and culture -• Comparing the complicated relationship with history of war -• Examining how art can both condemn and celebrate war -• The Mark of Cain as a legacy of war -• Treating God flippantly is the real mark of Cain -• An affectionless approach to God or apathy towards God is the problem introduced by Cain -• Vulnerability to sin when approaching God in this way -• Sin as a predatory animal, described as crouching at one's door and desiring to have them, but requiring ruling over or mastering -• Sin is not just an action, but a force that takes on a life of its own in your life -• When you commit sin, it becomes a presence in your life and can take on a shadowy shape -• Sin can lead to a vicious cycle of perpetuating itself, making it harder to stop doing the same thing over time -• There are neurological reasons why habits form, but sin follows a similar pattern -• C.S. Lewis makes an observation that the Nazis initially hated the Jews because they killed them, but eventually came to hate them simply for existing -• Sin can become a presence in your life after a moment of decision not to forgive someone or something -• Unforgiveness hardens people and leads to further sin -• The story of Adam, Eve, Cain, and Abel illustrates the consequences of sin -• Sin becomes a presence in one's life and eventually takes shape in their personality -• Comparing unforgiveness or sin to a cancerous tumor emphasizes its danger -• Ignoring or trivializing sin can lead to its destructive power taking control -• The idea of sin "crouching at the door" warns of its potential to devour those who ignore it -• A coiled spring in life can represent a hidden threat -• Sin can hide in plain sight, but it's easier to see in others than oneself -• Unseen character flaws and weaknesses can lead to ruin and miserable relationships -• Denial and rationalization are common defenses against confronting one's own flaws -• The most dangerous struggles are those that cannot be seen -• Examples of unseen sins include addiction to work, materialism, arrogance, and obsession with physical appearance -• Sin has the power to be deadly and should not be taken lightly -• The attitude of one's heart towards God is directly related to their actions in life. -• Abel's blood cries out for justice -• Jesus' blood also cries out for justice and redeems those who believe in him -• The purpose of coming to church is to have blind eyes opened, dead hearts stirred to life, and genuine worship -• Sin hides and desires to have people, but they need to come and find God through worship -• Family stories of worship -• Grandfather's story and its impact on the speaker -• Worship as genuine affection for Jesus -• People who have changed the way we think about worship -• Sharing stories with others to learn how to worship well -• Discussion on worshiping God and how it shapes one's attitude -• Invitation for the worship team to lead a song -• Singing of "Great is Thy Faithfulness" -• Reflection on God's faithfulness and provision in life -• Prayer and invitation to come to the Lord's table together -• The Lord's Supper as a memorial of Jesus' sacrifice -• The bread and cup represent Jesus' body and blood, new covenant in his blood -• Invitation to participate in the Lord's Supper regardless of faith level or frequency of attendance -• Passing of elements around the circle, saying "body of Christ given for you" and "blood of Christ shed for you" -• Gluten-free option available -• Prayer teams available in the foyer -• Distribution of communion and gratitude expressed -• Worship song: Jesus, our glory and our pride -• Invitation to come to the altar for forgiveness and healing -• Reflection on the precious blood of Jesus Christ -• Praise and worship: sing hallelujah, Christ is risen -• Acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord of all -• Call to come to the altar for forgiveness and welcome -• Hymn singing (My Hope Is Built) -• Bible-based prayers and blessings -• Invitations to volunteer and serve at events (kids' camp, food drive) -• Blessings for those going out into the world -• Jesus Christ as Redeemer and Savior -• The giving of the Son and Spirit by God -• The completion of work on earth -• Standing in glory with God -• Serving the King forever -• Worship and thanksgiving to God \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - July 9, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - July 9, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0bf3bdae81c483bf4f0c9e5b2872afd645fb47dd..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - July 9, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1973 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.00] . -[30.00 --> 32.00] . -[60.00 --> 62.00] . -[90.00 --> 92.00] . -[120.00 --> 122.00] . -[122.00 --> 151.98] Thank you. -[152.00 --> 181.98] Thank you. -[182.00 --> 211.98] Thank you. -[212.00 --> 241.98] Thank you. -[242.00 --> 271.98] Thank you. -[272.00 --> 301.98] Thank you. -[302.00 --> 331.98] Thank you. -[332.00 --> 361.98] Thank you. -[362.00 --> 391.98] Thank you. -[392.00 --> 421.98] Thank you. -[422.00 --> 451.98] Thank you. -[452.00 --> 481.98] Thank you. -[482.00 --> 511.98] Thank you. -[512.00 --> 541.98] Thank you. -[542.00 --> 571.98] Thank you. -[572.00 --> 601.98] Thank you. -[601.98 --> 631.96] Thank you. -[631.98 --> 661.96] Thank you. -[661.98 --> 691.96] Thank you. -[691.98 --> 721.96] Thank you. -[721.98 --> 751.96] Thank you. -[751.98 --> 781.96] Thank you. -[781.98 --> 811.96] Thank you. -[811.98 --> 841.96] Thank you. -[841.98 --> 871.96] Thank you. -[871.98 --> 901.96] Thank you. -[901.98 --> 931.96] Thank you. -[931.98 --> 961.96] Thank you. -[961.96 --> 991.94] Thank you. -[991.96 --> 1021.94] Thank you. -[1021.94 --> 1051.92] Thank you. -[1051.94 --> 1081.92] Thank you. -[1081.94 --> 1111.92] Thank you. -[1111.92 --> 1141.90] Thank you. -[1141.92 --> 1171.90] Thank you. -[1171.92 --> 1201.90] Thank you. -[1201.92 --> 1231.90] Thank you. -[1231.92 --> 1261.90] Thank you. -[1261.92 --> 1291.90] Thank you. -[1291.90 --> 1321.90] Thank you. -[1321.90 --> 1351.88] Thank you. -[1351.88 --> 1381.86] Thank you. -[1381.88 --> 1411.86] Thank you. -[1411.88 --> 1441.86] Thank you. -[1441.88 --> 1471.86] Thank you. -[1471.88 --> 1501.86] Thank you. -[1501.86 --> 1531.84] Thank you. -[1531.86 --> 1561.84] Thank you. -[1561.86 --> 1591.84] Thank you. -[1591.86 --> 1621.84] Thank you. -[1621.86 --> 1651.84] Thank you. -[1651.86 --> 1681.84] Thank you. -[1681.86 --> 1711.84] Thank you. -[1711.86 --> 1741.84] Thank you. -[1741.86 --> 1771.84] Thank you. -[1771.86 --> 1801.84] Thank you. -[1801.86 --> 1831.84] Thank you. -[1831.84 --> 1861.82] Thank you. -[1861.84 --> 1891.82] Praise. -[1891.84 --> 1899.92] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[1921.84 --> 1944.02] Good morning. Today's special offering is for the Benevolence Fund. This is an ongoing fund that the deacons have so that when needs arise in our church family or in local community, we are able to assist them and be a witness to them. It is our opportunity for us to be able to bless them. Thank you. -[1951.84 --> 1981.82] Thank you. -[1981.84 --> 1983.84] Thank you. -[1983.84 --> 1985.84] Thank you. -[2011.84 --> 2013.84] Thank you. -[2013.84 --> 2015.84] Thank you. -[2015.84 --> 2017.84] Thank you. -[2017.84 --> 2019.84] Thank you. -[2019.84 --> 2021.84] Thank you. -[2021.84 --> 2023.84] Thank you. -[2023.84 --> 2025.84] Thank you. -[2025.84 --> 2027.84] Thank you. -[2027.84 --> 2028.84] Thank you. -[2028.84 --> 2029.84] Thank you. -[2029.84 --> 2031.84] Thank you. -[2031.84 --> 2032.84] Thank you. -[2032.84 --> 2033.84] Thank you. -[2033.84 --> 2036.84] Thank you. -[2036.84 --> 2038.84] Thank you. -[2038.84 --> 2048.84] Another chrism Day In The Steam using this 직접 Casey -[2048.84 --> 2052.84] Yes that is, yes that is, yes that is the same story -[2052.84 --> 2057.94] You'll be my guide -[2057.94 --> 2064.02] For grief may fail and fear surrounds you -[2064.02 --> 2072.20] You've never failed and you won't stop now -[2072.20 --> 2078.94] And I will call upon your name -[2078.94 --> 2085.76] I will leave my eyes above the waves -[2085.76 --> 2092.04] I know you turns my soul against the door and grace -[2092.04 --> 2095.28] For I am yours -[2095.28 --> 2100.64] You are mine -[2108.94 --> 2117.76] Spirit lead me when my trust is without borders -[2117.76 --> 2121.76] Let me walk upon the waters -[2122.30 --> 2126.84] Wherever you would call me -[2126.84 --> 2132.84] Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander -[2132.84 --> 2136.56] And my faith will be made stronger -[2136.56 --> 2140.78] In the presence of my Savior -[2140.78 --> 2147.72] Spirit lead me when my trust is without borders -[2147.72 --> 2151.44] Let me walk upon the waters -[2151.44 --> 2155.66] Wherever you would call me -[2155.66 --> 2161.94] Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander -[2161.94 --> 2165.66] And my faith will be made stronger -[2165.66 --> 2169.76] In the presence of my Savior -[2169.76 --> 2176.44] Spirit lead me when my trust is without borders -[2176.44 --> 2180.08] Let me walk upon the waters -[2180.08 --> 2184.68] Wherever you would call me -[2184.68 --> 2189.94] Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander -[2189.94 --> 2193.66] And my faith will be made stronger -[2193.66 --> 2195.66] And my faith will be made stronger -[2195.66 --> 2197.76] In the presence of my Savior -[2197.76 --> 2203.58] I will call upon your name -[2203.58 --> 2212.34] Keep my eyes above the waves -[2212.34 --> 2218.58] So I'll rest in your embrace -[2218.58 --> 2222.30] I am yours -[2222.30 --> 2226.40] You are mine -[2226.40 --> 2256.38] At this time I would love if any of the kids who are going to head out to children's worship time -[2256.38 --> 2261.04] And so join a summer that is age 3 through kindergarten -[2261.04 --> 2263.54] So if you're here come on up to the front -[2263.54 --> 2266.00] We're going to do the kids blessing together -[2266.00 --> 2270.76] If you are a leader or going to help them -[2270.76 --> 2272.98] You can also come up to the front if you want -[2272.98 --> 2275.56] No? -[2275.88 --> 2276.22] No? -[2276.22 --> 2276.26] No? -[2277.18 --> 2277.72] All right -[2277.72 --> 2279.04] Guys why don't we just stand up -[2279.04 --> 2281.60] We're going to do the blessing -[2281.60 --> 2282.48] Do you remember how to do that? -[2284.32 --> 2284.72] Four -[2284.72 --> 2286.40] Perfect -[2286.40 --> 2287.08] Right? -[2287.18 --> 2287.90] Four is a great number -[2287.90 --> 2289.84] So we're going to hold our hands up -[2289.84 --> 2290.60] We're going to say -[2290.60 --> 2291.70] The Lord be with you -[2291.70 --> 2294.06] And then everyone here is going to respond by saying -[2294.06 --> 2294.92] And also with you -[2294.92 --> 2296.02] So let's stand together -[2296.02 --> 2298.22] Let's turn around and face everyone -[2298.22 --> 2300.04] Together we say -[2300.04 --> 2302.60] The Lord be with you -[2302.60 --> 2304.78] And also with you -[2304.78 --> 2305.44] Awesome -[2305.44 --> 2305.72] All right -[2305.72 --> 2306.72] You guys head out -[2306.72 --> 2309.02] There will be some helpers and teachers and the like -[2309.02 --> 2310.50] Who will collect you -[2310.50 --> 2335.20] I'm Eric -[2335.20 --> 2336.60] An elder here at Emmanuel -[2336.60 --> 2339.32] And I'll be leading you this morning in our church family prayer -[2339.32 --> 2339.94] Let us bow -[2339.94 --> 2342.42] Sing to the Lord all the earth -[2342.42 --> 2344.88] Proclaim his salvation day after day -[2344.88 --> 2347.24] Declare his glory among the nations -[2347.24 --> 2349.94] His marvelous deeds among all the people -[2349.94 --> 2352.58] For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise -[2352.58 --> 2359.02] This morning we give you praise for the unity of Micah and Jane Closterhoff -[2359.02 --> 2360.98] This past week Friday in marriage -[2360.98 --> 2365.08] May you bless them as they embark on their journey as a married couple -[2365.08 --> 2368.34] This week we also learned that Elise Wagner -[2368.34 --> 2370.82] Biopsy results showed no cancer -[2370.82 --> 2372.42] No cancer at all at this time -[2372.42 --> 2373.40] We praise you Lord -[2373.40 --> 2375.84] Also this past month -[2375.84 --> 2378.10] Si Visser has completed his chemo treatments -[2378.10 --> 2383.36] And after initial x-rays have indicated no sign of the cancer -[2383.36 --> 2387.24] He has started his immunotherapy for the next year -[2387.24 --> 2392.18] Which will be once a month and we pray that you be with them through the rest of their journey -[2392.18 --> 2394.30] Praise be to you Lord -[2394.30 --> 2396.24] God of our father of Israel -[2396.24 --> 2398.04] From everlasting to everlasting -[2398.04 --> 2404.96] We are thankful that Ellen White was transferred from Tawasin Hospital to Langley Memorial Hospital -[2404.96 --> 2409.70] And has she has been starting her rehabilitation starting a little bit of walking -[2409.70 --> 2414.54] It still will be a long road to a full recovery Lord but it's nice being closer to home -[2414.54 --> 2421.28] We also wanted to pray for class Tessa maker as he's also in Langley Memorial Hospital -[2421.28 --> 2425.30] We pray for answers and healing in regarding to his health concerns -[2425.30 --> 2433.18] We also want to keep Marguerite shown in her prayers as she will have surgery later this month -[2433.18 --> 2437.92] Keep her safe in her journey with that as well Lord -[2437.92 --> 2446.36] We also pray for Rose Vita who suffers from an immune disease that's been struggling with of late Lord -[2446.36 --> 2447.92] We ask you be a comfort to her -[2447.92 --> 2455.08] Lord we thank you at this time of year where many of us get to take our time off -[2455.08 --> 2458.62] And take some holidays with loved ones and family -[2458.62 --> 2462.98] We pay for traveling mercies and a restful time with family and friends -[2462.98 --> 2467.06] May you bless us all as we go through our week -[2467.06 --> 2472.12] And be grounded and rooted in your word in Jesus name we pray amen -[2472.12 --> 2496.68] This summer we're doing -[2496.68 --> 2509.64] A series looking at faith heroes in the bible and in our own lives and stories and and from that -[2509.64 --> 2510.84] hoping -[2510.84 --> 2514.42] That we ourselves might be -[2514.42 --> 2519.30] Encouraged might be equipped to share our own faith stories -[2519.30 --> 2526.58] As a way of encouraging people around us and those others whom we meet or in our life together -[2526.58 --> 2537.46] Today we're going to look at the character from the bible named abel and we're going to read his story from genesis 4 -[2537.46 --> 2541.36] The first 16 verses and so if you have a bible -[2541.36 --> 2546.36] I encourage you to open that up or to turn that on to find genesis 4 -[2546.36 --> 2549.62] Which is at the very beginning in my bible? -[2549.62 --> 2552.64] It's page 3 so it shouldn't be too hard to find -[2552.64 --> 2555.46] Even if this is the first time you've opened the bible -[2555.46 --> 2560.74] And so we'll read the first 16 verses together -[2560.74 --> 2561.70] There -[2561.70 --> 2563.20] Let's read -[2563.20 --> 2567.66] Adam -[2567.66 --> 2571.68] Adam made love to his wife eve and she became pregnant -[2571.68 --> 2573.92] And gave birth to cain -[2573.92 --> 2578.72] She said with the help of the lord. I have brought forth a man -[2578.72 --> 2580.24] Later -[2580.24 --> 2582.58] She gave birth to abel -[2582.58 --> 2587.66] Now abel kept flocks and cain worked the soil -[2587.66 --> 2594.04] In the course of time cain brought some of his fruits of the soil as an offering to the lord -[2594.04 --> 2600.16] And abel also brought an offering fat portions from some of the firstborn of his flock -[2600.16 --> 2604.36] The lord looked with favor on abel and his offering -[2604.36 --> 2608.22] But on cain and his offering he did not look with favor -[2608.22 --> 2613.44] So cain was very angry and his face was downcast -[2613.44 --> 2616.30] Then the lord said to cain -[2616.30 --> 2618.84] Why are you angry? -[2618.98 --> 2620.54] Why is your face downcast? -[2620.76 --> 2624.16] If you do what is right will you not be accepted? -[2625.00 --> 2627.62] But if you do not do what is right -[2627.62 --> 2630.60] Sin is crouching at your door -[2630.60 --> 2632.52] It desires to have you -[2632.52 --> 2635.12] But you must rule over it -[2635.12 --> 2639.58] Now cain said to his brother abel -[2639.58 --> 2640.90] Let's go out to the field -[2640.90 --> 2644.14] While they were in the field -[2644.14 --> 2647.08] Cain attacked his brother abel -[2647.08 --> 2648.46] And killed him -[2648.46 --> 2652.22] Then the lord said to cain -[2652.22 --> 2655.36] Where is your brother abel? -[2656.20 --> 2658.14] I don't know he replied -[2658.14 --> 2659.70] Am I my brother's keeper? -[2661.16 --> 2662.40] The lord said -[2662.40 --> 2664.34] What have you done? -[2664.92 --> 2665.30] Listen -[2665.30 --> 2669.12] Your brother's blood cries out to me from the ground -[2669.12 --> 2672.12] Now you are under a curse -[2672.12 --> 2673.46] And driven from the ground -[2673.46 --> 2677.32] Which opened its mouth to receive your brother's blood from your hand -[2677.32 --> 2679.20] When you work the ground -[2679.20 --> 2681.38] It will no longer yield its crops for you -[2681.38 --> 2685.00] You will be a restless wanderer on the earth -[2685.00 --> 2688.46] Cain said to the lord -[2688.46 --> 2691.22] My punishment is more than I can bear -[2691.22 --> 2693.76] Today you are driving me from the land -[2693.76 --> 2695.38] And I will be hidden from your presence -[2695.38 --> 2697.86] I will be a restless wanderer on the earth -[2697.86 --> 2700.12] And whoever finds me will kill me -[2700.12 --> 2702.54] But the lord said to him -[2702.54 --> 2703.68] Not so -[2703.68 --> 2705.58] Anyone who kills cain -[2705.58 --> 2708.62] Will suffer vengeance seven times over -[2708.62 --> 2711.58] Then the lord put a mark on cain -[2711.58 --> 2713.44] So that no one who found him -[2713.44 --> 2714.64] Would kill him -[2714.64 --> 2717.68] So cain went out from the lord's presence -[2717.68 --> 2719.56] And lived in the land of nod -[2719.56 --> 2721.38] East of eden -[2721.38 --> 2723.92] This is the word of the lord -[2723.92 --> 2731.84] Now the story of abel -[2731.84 --> 2734.44] Or the story of cain and abel -[2734.44 --> 2737.20] Starts pretty simple -[2737.20 --> 2739.60] And starts straightforward enough -[2739.60 --> 2741.80] It starts with a birth announcement -[2741.80 --> 2744.42] Adam and eve -[2744.42 --> 2745.86] Have cain -[2745.86 --> 2747.40] And eve says -[2747.40 --> 2749.10] With the help of the lord -[2749.10 --> 2751.20] I have brought forth a man -[2751.20 --> 2753.86] Now the name cain -[2753.86 --> 2755.16] In hebrew -[2755.16 --> 2756.82] Sounds very similar -[2756.82 --> 2759.24] To the hebrew word -[2759.24 --> 2760.82] That means brought forth -[2760.82 --> 2763.00] So there's a play on words going on here -[2763.00 --> 2764.64] And then -[2764.64 --> 2765.88] Right afterwards -[2765.88 --> 2768.48] There's a second birth announcement -[2768.48 --> 2769.86] Later -[2769.86 --> 2771.96] She gave birth to abel -[2771.96 --> 2774.04] Now cain -[2774.04 --> 2776.66] Means or sounds like brought forth -[2776.66 --> 2777.68] Abel -[2777.68 --> 2779.72] Is also really interesting -[2779.72 --> 2781.82] Abel -[2781.82 --> 2782.38] Or abel -[2782.38 --> 2782.94] Abel -[2782.94 --> 2784.78] Is the hebrew word -[2784.78 --> 2785.86] For breath -[2785.86 --> 2787.56] Or for vapor -[2787.56 --> 2790.50] It's the hebrew word -[2790.50 --> 2791.42] For vanity -[2791.42 --> 2793.92] It's the same word -[2793.92 --> 2795.00] That the teacher uses -[2795.00 --> 2796.32] In the book of ecclesiastes -[2796.32 --> 2797.02] Right -[2797.02 --> 2797.84] You might know it as -[2797.84 --> 2798.48] Meaningless -[2798.48 --> 2799.28] Meaningless -[2799.28 --> 2800.24] Everything -[2800.24 --> 2801.44] Is meaningless -[2801.44 --> 2803.32] The old translation -[2803.32 --> 2804.20] Of that is -[2804.20 --> 2804.76] Vanity -[2804.76 --> 2805.86] Of vanities -[2805.86 --> 2806.80] Everything -[2806.80 --> 2807.96] Is vanity -[2807.96 --> 2810.74] Abel's very name -[2810.74 --> 2811.42] Havel -[2811.42 --> 2812.90] Is a commentary -[2812.90 --> 2814.24] On his life -[2814.24 --> 2815.96] It will be short -[2815.96 --> 2817.78] And it will be in vain -[2817.78 --> 2820.56] And then -[2820.56 --> 2821.50] As we go on -[2821.50 --> 2823.28] Between the two sentences -[2823.28 --> 2826.72] We have later -[2826.72 --> 2829.26] And then -[2829.26 --> 2829.92] Now -[2829.92 --> 2831.12] Abel kept flocks -[2831.12 --> 2831.76] And cain -[2831.76 --> 2832.84] Worked the soil -[2832.84 --> 2835.10] Between those two sentences -[2835.10 --> 2836.12] Is a lifetime -[2836.12 --> 2838.78] We know very little -[2838.78 --> 2839.82] Of that lifetime -[2839.82 --> 2840.88] Except that -[2840.88 --> 2841.38] They're now -[2841.38 --> 2842.02] Old enough -[2842.02 --> 2843.00] To be identified -[2843.00 --> 2844.12] By what they do -[2844.12 --> 2845.42] Right -[2845.42 --> 2846.22] Keeping flocks -[2846.22 --> 2847.62] Or working soil -[2847.62 --> 2848.94] They're old enough -[2848.94 --> 2849.94] To have -[2849.94 --> 2851.32] Careers -[2851.32 --> 2852.24] That associate -[2852.24 --> 2852.76] Them -[2852.76 --> 2853.60] In the world -[2853.60 --> 2855.32] And then -[2855.32 --> 2857.08] In the course -[2857.08 --> 2857.86] Of time -[2857.86 --> 2859.84] The opportunity -[2859.84 --> 2860.48] Comes -[2860.48 --> 2860.90] For them -[2860.90 --> 2861.40] To bring -[2861.40 --> 2862.80] An offering -[2862.80 --> 2864.86] The time -[2864.86 --> 2866.12] To worship -[2866.12 --> 2867.28] Comes -[2867.28 --> 2868.38] And there's -[2868.38 --> 2868.94] A recognition -[2868.94 --> 2870.20] Of need -[2870.20 --> 2872.00] So cain -[2872.00 --> 2872.70] Brought some -[2872.70 --> 2873.68] Fruits of soil -[2873.68 --> 2874.70] And abel -[2874.70 --> 2875.58] Brought fat -[2875.58 --> 2876.26] Portions -[2876.26 --> 2877.06] From some -[2877.06 --> 2877.98] Of the firstborn -[2877.98 --> 2878.84] Of his flock -[2878.84 --> 2880.76] And then -[2880.76 --> 2881.22] We read -[2881.22 --> 2881.92] That the lord -[2881.92 --> 2883.08] Looked with favor -[2883.08 --> 2884.12] On the offering -[2884.12 --> 2885.20] Of abel -[2885.20 --> 2887.36] And he did not -[2887.36 --> 2888.22] Look with favor -[2888.22 --> 2889.30] On the offering -[2889.30 --> 2890.16] Of cain -[2890.16 --> 2892.16] Now as we read -[2892.16 --> 2892.62] This -[2892.62 --> 2894.54] At least for myself -[2894.54 --> 2895.82] It begs the question -[2895.82 --> 2896.68] Every time -[2896.68 --> 2897.50] Why -[2897.50 --> 2898.48] Right -[2898.48 --> 2899.30] Why is -[2899.30 --> 2900.74] Abel's offering -[2900.74 --> 2902.18] Good and received -[2902.18 --> 2903.72] And why is cain's -[2903.72 --> 2904.38] Not -[2904.38 --> 2906.16] Now -[2906.16 --> 2907.56] I'll tell you -[2907.56 --> 2908.14] That there's -[2908.14 --> 2909.42] Lots of debate -[2909.42 --> 2910.78] In bible scholars -[2910.78 --> 2911.68] And in theology -[2911.68 --> 2912.98] On why this -[2912.98 --> 2913.84] Is the case -[2913.84 --> 2915.68] And some people -[2915.68 --> 2916.92] Point out to the fact -[2916.92 --> 2917.62] That abel -[2917.62 --> 2918.68] Brought the -[2918.68 --> 2920.00] Fat portions -[2920.00 --> 2921.12] Of the firstborn -[2921.12 --> 2921.92] Of his flock -[2921.92 --> 2923.16] And it's a way -[2923.16 --> 2923.54] Of saying -[2923.54 --> 2924.10] The best -[2924.10 --> 2924.80] Of the best -[2924.80 --> 2927.08] And that cain -[2927.08 --> 2929.02] Brought only -[2929.02 --> 2930.40] Some fruits -[2930.40 --> 2931.34] Of the soil -[2931.34 --> 2932.34] And there's no -[2932.34 --> 2933.42] Mention of the quality -[2933.42 --> 2936.34] In the first case -[2936.34 --> 2937.98] There seems to be -[2937.98 --> 2939.42] A parallel going on -[2939.42 --> 2940.44] Between these two -[2940.44 --> 2941.06] Offerings -[2941.06 --> 2942.02] And what will later -[2942.02 --> 2942.94] Be written about -[2942.94 --> 2943.96] In the book of the law -[2943.96 --> 2945.12] In the book of Leviticus -[2945.12 --> 2946.64] Leviticus 3 -[2946.64 --> 2947.56] Will describe -[2947.56 --> 2948.94] Offerings that require -[2948.94 --> 2949.98] The fat portions -[2949.98 --> 2950.98] Of the first fruit -[2950.98 --> 2952.28] And Leviticus 2 -[2952.28 --> 2953.22] Will require -[2953.22 --> 2954.20] And talk about -[2954.20 --> 2955.60] Offerings of grain -[2955.60 --> 2956.76] Or as a substitute -[2956.76 --> 2957.30] For that -[2957.30 --> 2958.44] Vegetable -[2958.44 --> 2961.46] Now the problem -[2961.46 --> 2962.88] With this interpretation -[2962.88 --> 2963.96] That it's the -[2963.96 --> 2965.46] Thing that is brought -[2965.46 --> 2966.24] In offering -[2966.24 --> 2967.48] That leads to God -[2967.48 --> 2968.48] Being displeased -[2968.48 --> 2969.48] Or receiving it -[2969.48 --> 2970.22] In pleasure -[2970.22 --> 2971.42] Is that it's an argument -[2971.42 --> 2972.02] From silence -[2972.02 --> 2972.52] That is to say -[2972.52 --> 2973.76] That we can't know -[2973.76 --> 2975.38] Right -[2975.38 --> 2976.22] It seems clear -[2976.22 --> 2977.04] That the author -[2977.04 --> 2978.74] Is also holding -[2978.74 --> 2979.56] Leviticus 2 -[2979.56 --> 2980.16] And 3 -[2980.16 --> 2981.16] Sort of intention -[2981.16 --> 2982.38] With this -[2982.38 --> 2983.62] Right -[2983.62 --> 2985.56] But -[2985.56 --> 2987.70] It doesn't seem clear -[2987.70 --> 2988.90] Because those two things -[2988.90 --> 2989.52] Are not weighted -[2989.52 --> 2990.66] Against each other -[2990.66 --> 2991.80] In Leviticus -[2991.80 --> 2992.74] That they should be -[2992.74 --> 2994.14] Weighted against each other -[2994.14 --> 2996.28] Here in Genesis 4 -[2996.28 --> 2998.22] Instead -[2998.22 --> 2999.74] As we keep -[2999.74 --> 3000.92] Reading the Bible -[3000.92 --> 3001.64] As we keep -[3001.64 --> 3002.48] Letting Scripture -[3002.48 --> 3003.54] Interpret Scripture -[3003.54 --> 3004.96] What seems to be -[3004.96 --> 3005.66] Going on -[3005.66 --> 3006.72] What seems to be -[3006.72 --> 3008.74] The determining factor -[3008.74 --> 3010.98] Is the attitude -[3010.98 --> 3012.86] Or is the heart -[3012.86 --> 3014.24] Of the giver -[3014.24 --> 3016.86] This is confirmed -[3016.86 --> 3017.42] For us -[3017.42 --> 3018.80] In Hebrews 11 -[3018.80 --> 3019.80] And so as we are -[3019.80 --> 3020.74] Looking at this series -[3020.74 --> 3022.08] Faith heroes -[3022.08 --> 3022.80] We are using -[3022.80 --> 3023.68] Hebrews 11 -[3023.68 --> 3025.24] As the list -[3025.24 --> 3026.40] To identify those -[3026.40 --> 3027.50] And then applying them -[3027.50 --> 3028.02] Here -[3028.02 --> 3029.06] But Hebrews 11 -[3029.06 --> 3029.92] Verse 4 -[3029.92 --> 3030.32] Said -[3030.32 --> 3032.80] By faith -[3032.80 --> 3033.42] Abel -[3033.42 --> 3034.60] Brought a better -[3034.60 --> 3035.62] Offering -[3035.62 --> 3036.54] Than Cain did -[3036.54 --> 3038.32] By faith -[3038.32 --> 3039.44] He was commended -[3039.44 --> 3040.54] As righteous -[3040.54 --> 3041.70] When God spoke -[3041.70 --> 3042.82] Well of his offering -[3042.82 --> 3044.54] And by faith -[3044.54 --> 3046.56] Abel still speaks -[3046.56 --> 3047.94] Even though -[3047.94 --> 3048.92] He is dead -[3048.92 --> 3051.22] And so what -[3051.22 --> 3052.48] Separates Abel's -[3052.48 --> 3052.96] Offering -[3052.96 --> 3053.68] From Cain's -[3053.68 --> 3054.04] Offering -[3054.04 --> 3054.88] According to Hebrews -[3054.88 --> 3057.04] His faith -[3057.04 --> 3058.58] Right -[3058.58 --> 3059.68] The character -[3059.68 --> 3061.44] Of his heart -[3061.44 --> 3062.40] The thing -[3062.40 --> 3063.46] That was pouring -[3063.46 --> 3064.46] Out of him -[3064.46 --> 3065.30] Not the thing -[3065.30 --> 3065.96] That he brought -[3065.96 --> 3067.88] He is commended -[3067.88 --> 3068.62] As righteous -[3068.62 --> 3069.40] Because of -[3069.40 --> 3070.48] His faith -[3070.48 --> 3072.58] How does he -[3072.58 --> 3073.90] Continue to speak -[3073.90 --> 3074.46] Then through -[3074.46 --> 3075.24] The generations -[3075.24 --> 3077.58] By his display -[3077.58 --> 3078.68] Of faith -[3078.68 --> 3081.10] So this morning -[3081.10 --> 3082.02] As we dig in -[3082.02 --> 3083.00] To this faith -[3083.00 --> 3083.52] Hero -[3083.52 --> 3084.98] Here's the -[3084.98 --> 3085.96] Sort of banner -[3085.96 --> 3087.24] Or the big idea -[3087.24 --> 3087.92] That I hope -[3087.92 --> 3088.80] We will see -[3088.80 --> 3091.74] How Abel -[3091.74 --> 3092.34] Shows us -[3092.34 --> 3092.64] That -[3092.64 --> 3093.86] The attitude -[3093.86 --> 3095.32] Of our heart -[3095.32 --> 3096.58] In the approach -[3096.58 --> 3097.30] To God -[3097.30 --> 3099.00] Leads directly -[3099.00 --> 3100.46] To the actions -[3100.46 --> 3101.82] Of our lives -[3101.82 --> 3102.46] Towards -[3102.46 --> 3103.96] Or apart -[3103.96 --> 3104.42] From -[3104.42 --> 3105.28] God -[3105.28 --> 3107.52] I'll say that again -[3107.52 --> 3108.66] The attitude -[3108.66 --> 3109.52] Of our heart -[3109.52 --> 3110.48] In the approach -[3110.48 --> 3111.16] To God -[3111.16 --> 3112.32] Leads directly -[3112.32 --> 3113.34] To the actions -[3113.34 --> 3114.92] Of our lives -[3114.92 --> 3115.68] Towards -[3115.68 --> 3116.78] Or apart -[3116.78 --> 3117.34] From -[3117.34 --> 3118.40] God -[3118.40 --> 3121.62] It's his faith -[3121.62 --> 3123.52] That is the difference -[3123.52 --> 3125.18] It's the attitude -[3125.18 --> 3126.04] Of his heart -[3126.04 --> 3127.14] That matters -[3127.14 --> 3130.36] And this makes sense -[3130.36 --> 3132.24] As we see this theme -[3132.24 --> 3133.54] Worked out over and over -[3133.54 --> 3134.80] In the rest of the Old Testament -[3134.80 --> 3136.36] Even as it regards -[3136.36 --> 3138.16] The sacrificial system -[3138.16 --> 3139.06] That will be outlined -[3139.06 --> 3139.80] In clarity -[3139.80 --> 3141.06] In the later books -[3141.06 --> 3142.72] Even as it regards -[3142.72 --> 3144.26] The covenant marker -[3144.26 --> 3145.26] Of identity -[3145.26 --> 3146.22] And inclusion -[3146.22 --> 3147.70] Like circumcision -[3147.70 --> 3148.66] That will get -[3148.66 --> 3150.40] Again outlined for us -[3150.40 --> 3151.08] Later -[3151.08 --> 3151.92] But if you look at -[3151.92 --> 3152.98] Hosea 6 -[3152.98 --> 3153.68] Verse 6 -[3153.68 --> 3154.36] For instance -[3154.36 --> 3154.92] It says -[3154.92 --> 3155.42] There -[3155.42 --> 3156.36] God says -[3156.36 --> 3157.86] I desire mercy -[3157.86 --> 3159.18] Not sacrifice -[3159.18 --> 3160.28] Right -[3160.28 --> 3161.04] The acknowledgement -[3161.04 --> 3161.86] Of God -[3161.86 --> 3162.68] Rather than -[3162.68 --> 3163.52] Burnt offerings -[3163.52 --> 3165.86] Or Deuteronomy 30 -[3165.86 --> 3166.44] Verse 6 -[3166.44 --> 3166.74] Says -[3166.74 --> 3168.28] The Lord your God -[3168.28 --> 3169.48] Will circumcise -[3169.48 --> 3170.26] Your hearts -[3170.26 --> 3171.10] And the hearts -[3171.10 --> 3171.92] Of your descendants -[3171.92 --> 3173.24] So that you may -[3173.24 --> 3173.92] Love him -[3173.92 --> 3175.56] With all your heart -[3175.56 --> 3177.34] And with all your soul -[3177.34 --> 3178.44] And live -[3178.44 --> 3180.12] Right -[3180.12 --> 3181.46] The sacrifice itself -[3181.46 --> 3182.68] Is not the issue -[3182.68 --> 3184.90] Sacrifice without -[3184.90 --> 3186.58] Transformed affections -[3186.58 --> 3187.50] Is -[3187.50 --> 3190.36] Circumcision itself -[3190.36 --> 3191.52] Is not the issue -[3191.52 --> 3193.54] But the act of circumcision -[3193.54 --> 3194.68] Should be indicative -[3194.68 --> 3197.10] Of a changed heart -[3197.10 --> 3199.96] And so with Cain -[3199.96 --> 3201.06] And Abel -[3201.06 --> 3203.12] Cain is going through -[3203.12 --> 3204.76] The religious motions -[3204.76 --> 3206.98] He's all ritual -[3206.98 --> 3208.66] And no heart -[3208.66 --> 3210.12] Abel -[3210.12 --> 3211.04] His affections -[3211.04 --> 3211.62] For God -[3211.62 --> 3212.46] Aren't stirred -[3212.46 --> 3213.40] Or changed -[3213.40 --> 3214.96] Abel -[3214.96 --> 3216.02] On the other hand -[3216.02 --> 3217.20] Does the religious -[3217.20 --> 3218.40] Activities -[3218.40 --> 3219.16] Because -[3219.16 --> 3220.82] By faith -[3220.82 --> 3222.52] His affections -[3222.52 --> 3223.60] His love -[3223.60 --> 3225.02] Is for -[3225.02 --> 3226.06] God -[3226.06 --> 3228.48] Cain is all ritual -[3228.48 --> 3229.32] And no heart -[3229.32 --> 3231.26] Abel was all heart -[3231.26 --> 3232.24] And so -[3232.24 --> 3233.22] He practices -[3233.22 --> 3233.82] The ritual -[3233.82 --> 3236.16] And it's this -[3236.16 --> 3237.40] Deeper distinction -[3237.40 --> 3239.02] That the reality -[3239.02 --> 3239.82] Of our hearts -[3239.82 --> 3240.56] Affection -[3240.56 --> 3241.60] That I think -[3241.60 --> 3242.68] Matters for us -[3242.68 --> 3243.96] And why Cain -[3243.96 --> 3244.74] Or why Abel -[3244.74 --> 3245.06] Sorry -[3245.06 --> 3245.90] Is held up -[3245.90 --> 3247.06] As a faith -[3247.06 --> 3247.80] Hero -[3247.80 --> 3249.20] Because -[3249.20 --> 3250.94] Some of us -[3250.94 --> 3252.48] Are like Cain -[3252.48 --> 3253.68] In our attitudes -[3253.68 --> 3254.64] About religion -[3254.64 --> 3256.08] Right -[3256.08 --> 3257.08] We are heartless -[3257.08 --> 3258.36] In our relationship -[3258.36 --> 3259.46] To God -[3259.46 --> 3260.32] And God -[3260.32 --> 3261.20] Doesn't want -[3261.20 --> 3262.12] A heartless -[3262.12 --> 3263.26] Relationship -[3263.26 --> 3264.42] Some of us -[3264.42 --> 3264.74] Have been -[3264.74 --> 3265.98] Treating God -[3265.98 --> 3267.00] As little more -[3267.00 --> 3268.12] Than an acquaintance -[3268.12 --> 3269.02] In our lives -[3269.02 --> 3269.98] Every once in a while -[3269.98 --> 3271.06] Maybe we say hi -[3271.06 --> 3273.50] Maybe we talk -[3273.50 --> 3274.50] A certain way -[3274.50 --> 3276.04] In certain group settings -[3276.04 --> 3276.92] So that we appear -[3276.92 --> 3278.22] To be civil -[3278.22 --> 3279.18] And polite -[3279.18 --> 3281.08] But we go for years -[3281.08 --> 3282.86] Without really -[3282.86 --> 3284.28] Feeling -[3284.28 --> 3285.52] Deeply -[3285.52 --> 3288.22] And maybe that's -[3288.22 --> 3289.78] Been your approach -[3289.78 --> 3290.66] To God -[3290.66 --> 3291.28] Maybe that's been -[3291.28 --> 3292.10] Your experience -[3292.10 --> 3293.38] Of religion -[3293.38 --> 3294.24] In the past -[3294.24 --> 3295.60] Or even right now -[3295.60 --> 3297.54] And if that's you -[3297.54 --> 3302.52] Pick up your ears -[3302.52 --> 3304.22] Because you are -[3304.22 --> 3305.38] In the danger zone -[3305.38 --> 3306.54] Of Cain -[3306.54 --> 3308.68] Now let me be clear -[3308.68 --> 3309.24] I've been saying -[3309.24 --> 3310.04] Some of us -[3310.04 --> 3311.04] But of course -[3311.04 --> 3311.86] The truth is -[3311.86 --> 3313.00] All of us -[3313.00 --> 3314.72] We all do this -[3314.72 --> 3315.38] At some point -[3315.38 --> 3316.08] Or another -[3316.08 --> 3316.74] We all have -[3316.74 --> 3317.46] Taken God -[3317.46 --> 3318.28] For granted -[3318.28 --> 3318.78] We've all -[3318.78 --> 3319.84] Minimized God's -[3319.84 --> 3320.88] Desires for us -[3320.88 --> 3321.36] We've all -[3321.36 --> 3322.68] Minimized God's -[3322.68 --> 3324.14] Call on our lives -[3324.14 --> 3325.30] To glorify him -[3325.30 --> 3326.16] And enjoy him -[3326.16 --> 3326.56] Forever -[3326.56 --> 3327.72] We have all -[3327.72 --> 3328.74] Ignored parts -[3328.74 --> 3329.68] Of his call -[3329.68 --> 3331.02] That's on every -[3331.02 --> 3332.40] Corner of our hearts -[3332.40 --> 3333.30] And every aspect -[3333.30 --> 3334.34] Of our lives -[3334.34 --> 3334.72] Right -[3334.72 --> 3335.48] We've all -[3335.48 --> 3336.92] Made little -[3336.92 --> 3339.24] The place of worship -[3339.24 --> 3341.06] And his word -[3341.06 --> 3342.36] And devotion -[3342.36 --> 3344.14] Right -[3344.14 --> 3344.84] We all -[3344.84 --> 3346.34] Run the risk -[3346.34 --> 3347.42] Of the danger zone -[3347.42 --> 3347.92] Of Cain -[3347.92 --> 3351.70] Some time ago -[3351.70 --> 3353.48] I was listening -[3353.48 --> 3355.26] To what's called -[3355.26 --> 3356.36] A wreath lecture -[3356.36 --> 3357.54] It's put on -[3357.54 --> 3358.50] By the BBC -[3358.50 --> 3360.50] And historian -[3360.50 --> 3362.16] Margaret Macmillan -[3362.16 --> 3364.42] Was talking about -[3364.42 --> 3366.96] The ubiquity of war -[3366.96 --> 3368.88] Throughout human history -[3368.88 --> 3370.94] And she was reflecting -[3370.94 --> 3372.90] On our seemingly -[3372.90 --> 3374.70] Complicated relationship -[3374.70 --> 3375.84] To the history -[3375.84 --> 3376.36] Of war -[3376.36 --> 3378.26] Especially as it's -[3378.26 --> 3379.36] Expressed in art -[3379.36 --> 3380.74] Right -[3380.74 --> 3381.56] So on the one hand -[3381.56 --> 3382.32] We have phrases -[3382.32 --> 3383.60] Like war is hell -[3383.60 --> 3385.22] And it's atrocious -[3385.22 --> 3386.00] And we hate -[3386.00 --> 3386.84] Every bit of it -[3386.84 --> 3388.64] And on the other hand -[3388.64 --> 3389.48] Some of the most -[3389.48 --> 3390.82] Memorable and amazing -[3390.82 --> 3391.90] Pieces of art -[3391.90 --> 3392.88] Throughout history -[3392.88 --> 3393.36] And culture -[3393.36 --> 3394.16] Have been created -[3394.16 --> 3395.34] Around the theme -[3395.34 --> 3396.12] Of war -[3396.12 --> 3397.20] Right -[3397.20 --> 3397.66] Think about -[3397.66 --> 3398.80] Homer's Iliad -[3398.80 --> 3399.62] And the story -[3399.62 --> 3400.22] Of Troy -[3400.22 --> 3400.90] With Achilles -[3400.90 --> 3401.62] And Paris -[3401.62 --> 3402.82] Think about -[3402.82 --> 3403.46] The famous -[3403.46 --> 3404.34] Painting of -[3404.34 --> 3405.14] Napoleon -[3405.14 --> 3405.84] Rearing up -[3405.84 --> 3406.60] On horseback -[3406.60 --> 3407.28] In Napoleon -[3407.28 --> 3408.32] Crossing the Alps -[3408.32 --> 3409.70] By Jacques-Louis -[3409.70 --> 3409.92] David -[3409.92 --> 3411.74] Or think about -[3411.74 --> 3413.36] The famous -[3413.36 --> 3414.28] Statue -[3414.28 --> 3415.34] Of the U.S. -[3415.50 --> 3416.20] Marine Corps -[3416.20 --> 3417.30] With six -[3417.30 --> 3418.36] American soldiers -[3418.36 --> 3419.46] Raising the flag -[3419.46 --> 3420.36] At Iwo Jima -[3420.36 --> 3421.14] Right -[3421.14 --> 3421.72] That's a picture -[3421.72 --> 3422.24] That was turned -[3422.24 --> 3422.88] Into a statue -[3422.88 --> 3423.58] That now exists -[3423.58 --> 3424.28] As a memorial -[3424.28 --> 3425.84] Right -[3425.84 --> 3426.52] All of that -[3426.52 --> 3427.82] Is glorifying -[3427.82 --> 3429.14] War -[3429.14 --> 3429.84] And the figures -[3429.84 --> 3430.78] Of war -[3430.78 --> 3432.74] Now what interests me -[3432.74 --> 3433.46] From her lecture -[3433.46 --> 3434.40] And why it applies here -[3434.40 --> 3435.20] Is that the title -[3435.20 --> 3436.12] Of her lecture -[3436.12 --> 3437.26] Was called -[3437.26 --> 3438.72] The Mark of Cain -[3438.72 --> 3440.94] And she's picking up -[3440.94 --> 3442.52] On verse 15 -[3442.52 --> 3444.06] Of this text -[3444.06 --> 3444.40] Right -[3444.40 --> 3446.20] Where then the Lord -[3446.20 --> 3447.52] Put a mark on Cain -[3447.52 --> 3448.90] So that no one -[3448.90 --> 3449.72] Who found him -[3449.72 --> 3450.86] Would kill him -[3450.86 --> 3451.68] Because Cain -[3451.68 --> 3452.08] Of course -[3452.08 --> 3452.90] Is terrified -[3452.90 --> 3454.30] That as he's hidden -[3454.30 --> 3455.42] From God's presence -[3455.42 --> 3456.24] As he's a restless -[3456.24 --> 3457.04] Wanderer on earth -[3457.04 --> 3458.22] Whoever finds him -[3458.22 --> 3459.40] Will kill him -[3459.40 --> 3460.70] So her idea -[3460.70 --> 3461.58] Is that the Mark -[3461.58 --> 3462.28] Of Cain -[3462.28 --> 3463.22] Is the legacy -[3463.22 --> 3463.96] Of war -[3463.96 --> 3465.74] Brother against brother -[3465.74 --> 3466.88] Nation against nation -[3466.88 --> 3469.96] But I think -[3469.96 --> 3471.14] In this story -[3471.14 --> 3472.26] The real Mark -[3472.26 --> 3473.02] Of Cain -[3473.02 --> 3474.92] Is treating God -[3474.92 --> 3475.46] Flippantly -[3475.46 --> 3477.94] That the real Mark -[3477.94 --> 3478.64] Of Cain -[3478.64 --> 3480.42] Is an affectionless -[3480.42 --> 3481.06] Approach -[3481.06 --> 3481.72] To God -[3481.72 --> 3482.66] Or an apathy -[3482.66 --> 3483.82] Towards God -[3483.82 --> 3485.28] That's the problem -[3485.28 --> 3485.96] That Cain -[3485.96 --> 3487.06] Introduces -[3487.06 --> 3488.32] And when we start -[3488.32 --> 3489.12] To approach -[3489.12 --> 3490.38] God that way -[3490.38 --> 3492.62] We're opening -[3492.62 --> 3493.64] Ourselves to something -[3493.64 --> 3495.28] We become vulnerable -[3495.28 --> 3496.38] To something -[3496.38 --> 3497.08] Whether it's because -[3497.08 --> 3498.34] Our faith becomes weak -[3498.34 --> 3499.40] Or we miss -[3499.40 --> 3500.22] The consequences -[3500.22 --> 3501.28] Of what's going on -[3501.28 --> 3502.46] And we are rejecting -[3502.46 --> 3503.46] The reality -[3503.46 --> 3504.82] Of who God is -[3504.82 --> 3506.44] In a word -[3506.44 --> 3507.18] What this text -[3507.18 --> 3508.00] Is telling us -[3508.00 --> 3508.82] Is that we become -[3508.82 --> 3509.60] Vulnerable -[3509.60 --> 3511.06] To sin -[3511.06 --> 3513.68] Right God says -[3513.68 --> 3515.00] To Cain -[3515.00 --> 3516.16] If you do not -[3516.16 --> 3517.18] What is right -[3517.18 --> 3518.80] Sin is crouching -[3518.80 --> 3519.52] At your door -[3519.52 --> 3520.58] It desires -[3520.58 --> 3521.42] To have you -[3521.42 --> 3522.60] But you must -[3522.60 --> 3523.96] Rule over it -[3523.96 --> 3526.32] A previous translation -[3526.32 --> 3527.06] Of that verse -[3527.06 --> 3527.76] Says you must -[3527.76 --> 3529.36] Master it -[3529.36 --> 3531.42] It's a remarkable -[3531.42 --> 3532.06] Image -[3532.06 --> 3532.82] I think -[3532.82 --> 3534.12] Right it's an image -[3534.12 --> 3534.76] Of a leopard -[3534.76 --> 3536.00] Or a tiger -[3536.00 --> 3536.90] Or some sort -[3536.90 --> 3538.78] Of predatory animal -[3538.78 --> 3540.18] Stalking through -[3540.18 --> 3541.06] The grass -[3541.06 --> 3543.08] Crouching in the shadows -[3543.08 --> 3544.74] Muscles taut -[3544.74 --> 3546.22] Ready to spring -[3546.22 --> 3547.10] And kill -[3547.10 --> 3549.88] God says that's sin -[3549.88 --> 3552.40] Sin is predatory -[3552.40 --> 3555.26] Sin has a deadly effect -[3555.26 --> 3556.58] In the life -[3556.58 --> 3557.48] And in a life -[3557.48 --> 3558.08] Of its own -[3558.08 --> 3560.42] How is that? -[3561.90 --> 3563.08] And here is why -[3563.08 --> 3563.86] I think we're going -[3563.86 --> 3564.92] To begin to see -[3564.92 --> 3567.02] That there's no other -[3567.02 --> 3568.96] Way to describe -[3568.96 --> 3570.10] This reality -[3570.10 --> 3570.96] Than what the Bible -[3570.96 --> 3571.54] Gives us -[3571.54 --> 3572.94] That is as effective -[3572.94 --> 3574.16] For understanding -[3574.16 --> 3575.28] What's taking place -[3575.28 --> 3576.72] Because like -[3576.72 --> 3577.48] When God uses -[3577.48 --> 3578.48] This image -[3578.48 --> 3580.34] He's telling us -[3580.34 --> 3581.60] That sin -[3581.60 --> 3582.84] Seems to have -[3582.84 --> 3583.74] This kind of like -[3583.74 --> 3584.78] Abiding -[3584.78 --> 3585.88] And growing -[3585.88 --> 3586.94] Presence -[3586.94 --> 3587.66] In your life -[3587.66 --> 3589.70] Right -[3589.70 --> 3590.56] If you commit -[3590.56 --> 3591.18] A sin -[3591.18 --> 3593.66] Sin is not over -[3593.66 --> 3595.04] Right -[3595.04 --> 3596.06] Sin's not simply -[3596.06 --> 3596.96] An action -[3596.96 --> 3598.22] It's a force -[3598.22 --> 3599.98] It's a desire -[3599.98 --> 3601.26] It's a power -[3601.26 --> 3604.46] And when you do sin -[3604.46 --> 3605.66] And it's not over -[3605.66 --> 3607.52] It actually becomes -[3607.52 --> 3608.96] A presence -[3608.96 --> 3610.06] In your life -[3610.06 --> 3610.36] And it -[3610.36 --> 3611.34] It takes on -[3611.34 --> 3612.44] This shape -[3612.44 --> 3613.84] A shadowy shape -[3613.84 --> 3614.60] And it begins -[3614.60 --> 3616.24] To stay with you -[3616.24 --> 3616.72] And it begins -[3616.72 --> 3617.98] To affect you -[3617.98 --> 3619.00] Or infect you -[3619.00 --> 3620.94] And eventually -[3620.94 --> 3621.84] What we're being -[3621.84 --> 3622.60] Warned of here -[3622.60 --> 3624.02] Is that it'll -[3624.02 --> 3624.86] Take you out -[3624.86 --> 3626.52] Now you say -[3626.52 --> 3627.22] How can that be -[3627.22 --> 3628.72] Well -[3628.72 --> 3629.78] Let's start -[3629.78 --> 3630.70] With a parallel -[3630.70 --> 3632.22] Concept in psychology -[3632.22 --> 3633.72] This idea of habit -[3633.72 --> 3634.82] Right -[3634.82 --> 3635.60] You can start there -[3635.60 --> 3636.50] But don't end there -[3636.50 --> 3637.88] You can start by noticing -[3637.88 --> 3638.92] That things become -[3638.92 --> 3640.10] Easier to do -[3640.10 --> 3641.28] When you do them -[3641.28 --> 3642.30] Over and over again -[3642.30 --> 3644.96] Right -[3644.96 --> 3646.72] The more you do something -[3646.72 --> 3647.64] The harder it is -[3647.64 --> 3648.74] To stop doing that thing -[3648.74 --> 3650.76] There's all sorts -[3650.76 --> 3651.88] Of neurological things -[3651.88 --> 3652.90] Going on in our brains -[3652.90 --> 3653.92] That create pathways -[3653.92 --> 3655.18] And quick fire receptors -[3655.18 --> 3657.14] But the more you do something -[3657.14 --> 3658.64] The easier it is to do it -[3658.64 --> 3660.14] Sin is the same way -[3660.14 --> 3662.92] There's a place -[3662.92 --> 3664.76] In the book -[3664.76 --> 3665.60] Mere Christianity -[3665.60 --> 3666.70] By C.S. Lewis -[3666.70 --> 3670.66] Where C.S. Lewis -[3670.66 --> 3672.92] Makes the interesting observation -[3672.92 --> 3675.68] Reflecting on -[3675.68 --> 3677.92] A post-World War II -[3677.92 --> 3679.50] Experience -[3679.50 --> 3680.70] And looking at -[3680.70 --> 3681.74] What took place -[3681.74 --> 3682.96] During World War II -[3682.96 --> 3684.70] He says -[3684.70 --> 3685.42] At first -[3685.42 --> 3686.22] The Nazis -[3686.22 --> 3687.26] Killed the Jews -[3687.26 --> 3688.82] Because they hated them -[3688.82 --> 3691.12] After a while -[3691.12 --> 3692.86] They hated the Jews -[3692.86 --> 3694.38] Because they killed them -[3694.38 --> 3696.50] Right -[3696.50 --> 3697.30] His point -[3697.30 --> 3697.92] Is that -[3697.92 --> 3699.12] That when you sin -[3699.12 --> 3700.74] Sin doesn't just go away -[3700.74 --> 3701.84] It becomes a presence -[3701.84 --> 3702.64] In your life -[3702.64 --> 3704.52] You start by doing sin -[3704.52 --> 3705.72] And then sin -[3705.72 --> 3706.72] Does you -[3706.72 --> 3709.28] Right -[3709.28 --> 3710.14] You can decide -[3710.14 --> 3710.78] You know -[3710.78 --> 3711.36] In a moment -[3711.36 --> 3713.06] I'm not going to forgive -[3713.06 --> 3713.98] My mother -[3713.98 --> 3714.96] I'm not going to forgive -[3714.96 --> 3715.68] My father -[3715.68 --> 3716.76] For what he or she -[3716.76 --> 3717.32] Has done -[3717.32 --> 3719.04] And then you've -[3719.04 --> 3720.06] Made that decision -[3720.06 --> 3720.98] You've decided it -[3720.98 --> 3721.80] But then -[3721.80 --> 3722.76] Notice where -[3722.76 --> 3723.52] It will do -[3723.52 --> 3724.18] You -[3724.18 --> 3726.36] Because not forgiving -[3726.36 --> 3726.80] Your mother -[3726.80 --> 3727.50] Or your father -[3727.50 --> 3728.10] Or whomever -[3728.10 --> 3728.78] In your life -[3728.78 --> 3729.66] Is going to have -[3729.66 --> 3730.48] The effect of -[3730.48 --> 3731.40] Poisoning -[3731.40 --> 3732.22] Or infecting -[3732.22 --> 3733.28] Other relationships -[3733.28 --> 3734.90] In your life -[3734.90 --> 3736.80] Other people -[3736.80 --> 3737.68] Are going to begin -[3737.68 --> 3738.92] To feel the sting -[3738.92 --> 3740.70] Of your unforgiveness -[3740.70 --> 3742.92] Right -[3742.92 --> 3744.00] It will harden you -[3744.00 --> 3745.56] To them -[3745.56 --> 3747.78] And you can see that -[3747.78 --> 3748.12] Actually -[3748.12 --> 3749.34] Already in this -[3749.34 --> 3750.22] Little family -[3750.22 --> 3750.94] Right -[3750.94 --> 3751.54] Adam and Eve -[3751.54 --> 3752.02] And Cain -[3752.02 --> 3752.86] And Abel -[3752.86 --> 3754.26] When God comes -[3754.26 --> 3755.14] To Adam and Eve -[3755.14 --> 3756.08] In Genesis 3 -[3756.08 --> 3756.92] In the fall -[3756.92 --> 3757.22] Right -[3757.22 --> 3757.72] And they say -[3757.72 --> 3758.88] What have you done -[3758.88 --> 3760.02] Right -[3760.02 --> 3761.26] They feel ashamed -[3761.26 --> 3762.78] And they hide -[3762.78 --> 3764.14] Right -[3764.14 --> 3765.20] They feel sheepish -[3765.20 --> 3766.50] And then Adam says -[3766.50 --> 3767.42] Well my wife -[3767.42 --> 3768.20] Made me do it -[3768.20 --> 3770.34] And then the woman says -[3770.34 --> 3771.20] Well the serpent -[3771.20 --> 3772.10] Made me do it -[3772.10 --> 3773.74] But here -[3773.74 --> 3774.86] God comes to Cain -[3774.86 --> 3775.40] And he asks -[3775.40 --> 3776.62] Effectively the same question -[3776.62 --> 3776.84] He says -[3776.84 --> 3777.58] What have you done -[3777.58 --> 3779.04] And he says -[3779.04 --> 3780.34] Am I supposed -[3780.34 --> 3781.54] To take care of that guy -[3781.54 --> 3783.18] Right -[3783.18 --> 3784.44] Am I my brother's keeper -[3784.44 --> 3786.58] There's a hardening -[3786.58 --> 3788.26] That has taken place -[3788.26 --> 3790.70] First you start to sin -[3790.70 --> 3791.62] And then sin -[3791.62 --> 3792.72] Does you -[3792.72 --> 3794.10] It becomes a presence -[3794.10 --> 3795.16] In your life -[3795.16 --> 3797.98] And when you sin -[3797.98 --> 3799.54] When that sin -[3799.54 --> 3800.42] Becomes a presence -[3800.42 --> 3801.04] In your life -[3801.04 --> 3802.24] It takes shape -[3802.24 --> 3802.94] In you -[3802.94 --> 3804.10] And around you -[3804.10 --> 3804.92] And eventually -[3804.92 --> 3807.36] Like a crouching -[3807.36 --> 3809.18] Predatory animal -[3809.18 --> 3810.86] It will take you out -[3810.86 --> 3814.98] So you should avoid sin -[3814.98 --> 3816.04] Like the plague -[3816.04 --> 3817.00] Because it's -[3817.00 --> 3817.78] A plague -[3817.78 --> 3820.42] And somebody -[3820.42 --> 3821.46] Might say to you -[3821.46 --> 3822.38] You know -[3822.38 --> 3823.40] You have a -[3823.40 --> 3824.38] Cancerous tumor -[3824.38 --> 3825.12] That is growing -[3825.12 --> 3826.36] In part of your body -[3826.36 --> 3828.92] You shouldn't respond -[3828.92 --> 3829.30] And say -[3829.30 --> 3829.80] Yeah you know -[3829.80 --> 3830.50] One of these days -[3830.50 --> 3831.18] I'll get to it -[3831.18 --> 3832.82] Maybe in a few years -[3832.82 --> 3833.84] I'll deal with it -[3833.84 --> 3835.18] Right -[3835.18 --> 3836.14] You don't do that -[3836.14 --> 3837.44] Likewise -[3837.44 --> 3838.64] If someone comes to you -[3838.64 --> 3839.04] And says -[3839.04 --> 3839.98] You know what -[3839.98 --> 3842.66] I'll say it politely -[3842.66 --> 3844.56] You have an abrasive spirit -[3844.56 --> 3846.62] That's not how we talk -[3846.62 --> 3847.24] You know how someone -[3847.24 --> 3848.12] Might say that to you -[3848.12 --> 3849.54] Right -[3849.54 --> 3850.48] Someone might come to you -[3850.48 --> 3850.84] And say -[3850.84 --> 3851.60] You know what -[3851.60 --> 3853.38] You can't control yourself -[3853.38 --> 3855.08] In this area -[3855.08 --> 3855.98] Or that area -[3855.98 --> 3858.64] And if you say -[3858.64 --> 3859.00] Yeah -[3859.00 --> 3859.80] You're right -[3859.80 --> 3861.74] And then just walk away -[3861.74 --> 3863.44] As if nothing's going on -[3863.44 --> 3866.32] You're missing the danger -[3866.32 --> 3868.86] Of this sin thing -[3868.86 --> 3870.16] That is crouching -[3870.16 --> 3871.88] Waiting to devour you -[3871.88 --> 3873.34] And don't dare -[3873.34 --> 3874.22] Just walk away -[3874.22 --> 3875.50] Right -[3875.50 --> 3877.06] That this idea of sin -[3877.06 --> 3878.32] Crouching at the door -[3878.32 --> 3878.90] Tells us -[3878.90 --> 3879.80] Not only that it's -[3879.80 --> 3881.14] A coiled spring -[3881.14 --> 3882.00] It's a presence -[3882.00 --> 3882.88] In your life -[3882.88 --> 3883.64] Right -[3883.64 --> 3884.52] But it's also -[3884.52 --> 3885.92] It gets to the fact -[3885.92 --> 3886.82] That sin -[3886.82 --> 3887.96] Hides -[3887.96 --> 3889.18] In you -[3889.18 --> 3890.72] Right -[3890.72 --> 3891.26] The lion -[3891.26 --> 3891.94] Or the tiger -[3891.94 --> 3894.10] Or this predatory image -[3894.10 --> 3895.58] It's crouching -[3895.58 --> 3898.12] That means it's down -[3898.12 --> 3898.62] Away -[3898.62 --> 3899.68] Out of your sight -[3899.68 --> 3901.78] Right -[3901.78 --> 3902.34] And that's important -[3902.34 --> 3903.68] Because if you see -[3903.68 --> 3905.08] A crouching tiger -[3905.08 --> 3907.52] You can respond -[3907.52 --> 3908.98] You can maybe -[3908.98 --> 3909.68] Get out of the way -[3909.68 --> 3910.62] You can try to run -[3910.62 --> 3913.00] But if you don't see it -[3913.00 --> 3916.04] That's how you end up dead -[3916.04 --> 3919.60] And so see it -[3919.60 --> 3921.82] See it -[3921.82 --> 3925.18] And so that means -[3925.18 --> 3927.84] That the biggest struggles -[3927.84 --> 3928.68] In your life -[3928.68 --> 3929.36] Right now -[3929.36 --> 3931.48] The character flaws -[3931.48 --> 3933.12] The abrasive spirit -[3933.12 --> 3933.90] Right -[3933.90 --> 3935.02] The things in your life -[3935.02 --> 3936.06] That are most likely -[3936.06 --> 3937.12] To ruin you -[3937.12 --> 3938.38] Or are currently -[3938.38 --> 3939.48] Ruining you -[3939.48 --> 3940.94] And ruining your relationships -[3940.94 --> 3943.10] The things in your life -[3943.10 --> 3943.94] That are most likely -[3943.94 --> 3944.82] To make the people -[3944.82 --> 3946.10] Around you miserable -[3946.10 --> 3948.20] Are the things -[3948.20 --> 3949.56] The character flaws -[3949.56 --> 3951.50] That you are least likely -[3951.50 --> 3952.28] To admit -[3952.28 --> 3954.24] And least likely -[3954.24 --> 3955.02] To see -[3955.02 --> 3956.68] In your own life -[3956.68 --> 3960.00] They're the ones -[3960.00 --> 3961.20] That you're in denial of -[3961.20 --> 3962.44] They're the ones -[3962.44 --> 3963.54] That you rationalize -[3963.54 --> 3964.22] Away -[3964.22 --> 3964.68] They're the ones -[3964.68 --> 3965.36] That you minimize -[3965.36 --> 3965.82] Right -[3965.82 --> 3967.20] Whenever the consequences -[3967.20 --> 3967.86] Of those things -[3967.86 --> 3968.54] Happen to you -[3968.54 --> 3969.68] When somebody brings them up -[3969.68 --> 3971.00] You just explain it away -[3971.00 --> 3972.98] The most dangerous -[3972.98 --> 3974.42] Struggles you face -[3974.42 --> 3975.12] Are the ones -[3975.12 --> 3976.80] That you cannot see -[3976.80 --> 3980.14] By definition -[3980.14 --> 3982.10] Those are the sins -[3982.10 --> 3983.10] That are crouching -[3983.10 --> 3983.94] In your life -[3983.94 --> 3986.92] So by way of example here -[3986.92 --> 3989.20] As long as you think -[3989.20 --> 3991.58] Of your addiction to work -[3991.58 --> 3993.18] Your workaholism -[3993.18 --> 3994.80] As long as you think of that -[3994.80 --> 3996.22] As a strong work ethic -[3996.22 --> 3999.02] You're in the danger zone -[3999.02 --> 4002.10] As long as you look at -[4002.10 --> 4004.38] Materialism -[4004.38 --> 4006.12] As ambition -[4006.12 --> 4006.14] As ambition -[4006.14 --> 4008.84] You're in the danger zone -[4008.84 --> 4010.96] As long as you think -[4010.96 --> 4011.94] Of your arrogance -[4011.94 --> 4014.48] As a healthy self-assertion -[4014.48 --> 4016.62] You're in the danger zone -[4016.62 --> 4017.60] Right -[4017.60 --> 4018.82] As long as you justify -[4018.82 --> 4019.72] Your obsession -[4019.72 --> 4021.24] With good looks -[4021.24 --> 4022.40] As good grooming -[4022.40 --> 4024.44] You're vulnerable -[4024.44 --> 4026.46] You're in denial -[4026.46 --> 4029.80] This is the power -[4029.80 --> 4031.30] Of sin -[4031.30 --> 4033.32] And why it is so deadly -[4033.32 --> 4034.70] And why it's something -[4034.70 --> 4036.88] We cannot take lightly -[4036.88 --> 4040.34] And how then -[4040.34 --> 4042.94] The attitude of our heart -[4042.94 --> 4044.38] In our approach to God -[4044.38 --> 4045.78] Is directly related -[4045.78 --> 4046.98] To the actions -[4046.98 --> 4048.24] Of our lives -[4048.24 --> 4050.54] With or without God -[4050.54 --> 4051.76] Right -[4051.76 --> 4052.46] Cain is overtaken -[4052.46 --> 4053.18] Overtaken -[4053.18 --> 4054.76] By the power of sin -[4054.76 --> 4055.66] In his life -[4055.66 --> 4056.86] And he kills his brother -[4056.86 --> 4059.28] And now -[4059.28 --> 4060.48] Abel's blood -[4060.48 --> 4061.18] God says -[4061.18 --> 4062.36] Cries out -[4062.36 --> 4063.86] For justice -[4063.86 --> 4067.74] But this story -[4067.74 --> 4069.12] Isn't over -[4069.12 --> 4070.94] Because you see -[4070.94 --> 4072.12] Years later -[4072.12 --> 4074.58] Another innocent man -[4074.58 --> 4075.66] Would be slain -[4075.66 --> 4076.68] By his brothers -[4076.68 --> 4078.90] Years later -[4078.90 --> 4080.94] Others sin -[4080.94 --> 4082.30] Would put Jesus -[4082.30 --> 4084.68] Up on the cross -[4084.68 --> 4086.12] Another innocent man -[4086.12 --> 4088.42] Whose blood cries out -[4088.42 --> 4089.58] And Jesus Christ -[4089.58 --> 4090.82] Now is standing -[4090.82 --> 4092.12] Before the throne -[4092.12 --> 4093.28] Of his father in heaven -[4093.28 --> 4093.82] And he says -[4093.82 --> 4094.50] Father -[4094.50 --> 4096.84] Your law demands justice -[4096.84 --> 4098.60] These people have sinned -[4098.60 --> 4099.98] The wages of sin -[4099.98 --> 4100.90] Is death -[4100.90 --> 4102.58] But for all who believe -[4102.58 --> 4103.26] In me -[4103.26 --> 4104.12] Says Jesus -[4104.12 --> 4105.46] I have paid -[4105.46 --> 4107.18] That penalty -[4107.18 --> 4109.26] My blood -[4109.26 --> 4111.00] Is now crying out -[4111.00 --> 4112.04] For justice -[4112.04 --> 4113.10] And it cries -[4113.10 --> 4114.62] Justice demands -[4114.62 --> 4116.18] That you never condemn -[4116.18 --> 4117.78] My brothers -[4117.78 --> 4118.84] And sisters -[4118.84 --> 4120.40] The blood of Jesus -[4120.40 --> 4121.62] Now cries out -[4121.62 --> 4122.38] Grace -[4122.38 --> 4123.14] For you -[4123.14 --> 4124.08] And for me -[4124.08 --> 4126.42] And because his blood -[4126.42 --> 4127.54] Cries out grace -[4127.54 --> 4129.10] Because he has extended -[4129.10 --> 4129.78] That grace -[4129.78 --> 4131.06] By faith to us -[4131.06 --> 4132.08] Instead of -[4132.08 --> 4133.22] Empty affection -[4133.22 --> 4134.50] It's hearts -[4134.50 --> 4135.68] Full of praise -[4135.68 --> 4136.90] Instead of sin -[4136.90 --> 4138.34] Crouching at your door -[4138.34 --> 4139.18] Worship -[4139.18 --> 4140.90] Now pours out -[4140.90 --> 4142.72] Of your heart -[4142.72 --> 4145.32] And that's why -[4145.32 --> 4146.52] We come to church -[4146.52 --> 4147.34] Every week -[4147.34 --> 4150.18] To have our blind eyes -[4150.18 --> 4151.64] Opened to the truth -[4151.64 --> 4152.60] Of what's actually -[4152.60 --> 4153.62] Going on out here -[4153.62 --> 4155.32] To the truth -[4155.32 --> 4157.06] Of what's really dangerous -[4157.06 --> 4159.46] To have our dead hearts -[4159.46 --> 4160.88] Stirred to life -[4160.88 --> 4161.74] By word -[4161.74 --> 4162.86] And by worship -[4162.86 --> 4164.42] Precisely because -[4164.42 --> 4166.08] Sin is hiding -[4166.08 --> 4167.22] And it desires -[4167.22 --> 4168.18] To have you -[4168.18 --> 4169.62] You need to come -[4169.62 --> 4171.28] And find God -[4171.28 --> 4172.12] You need to come -[4172.12 --> 4173.02] And be found -[4173.02 --> 4174.40] By him -[4174.40 --> 4177.40] You need to come -[4177.40 --> 4179.14] And worship -[4179.14 --> 4185.74] When I think about -[4185.74 --> 4188.40] The people in my life -[4188.40 --> 4190.06] Who have -[4190.06 --> 4190.08] Who have -[4190.08 --> 4191.36] Helped me -[4191.36 --> 4192.44] See what -[4192.44 --> 4193.66] Genuine affection -[4193.66 --> 4194.92] For worship -[4194.92 --> 4195.98] And in worship -[4195.98 --> 4197.04] Looks like -[4197.04 --> 4200.76] I can't help -[4200.76 --> 4202.50] But think of my grandpa -[4202.50 --> 4205.26] And my grandpa -[4205.26 --> 4207.88] Was a -[4207.88 --> 4208.86] Dutch immigrant -[4208.86 --> 4211.42] Who was not a hand raiser -[4211.42 --> 4212.20] In worship -[4212.20 --> 4213.96] He was not -[4213.96 --> 4216.46] A bouncer -[4216.46 --> 4217.30] On the balls -[4217.30 --> 4217.88] Of his feet -[4217.88 --> 4218.90] As he worshipped -[4218.90 --> 4219.56] He was not one -[4219.56 --> 4220.20] Of those ones -[4220.20 --> 4220.92] Who tried to like -[4220.92 --> 4221.82] Hide their hands -[4221.82 --> 4222.30] In worship -[4222.30 --> 4222.78] You know -[4222.78 --> 4223.82] They were like -[4223.82 --> 4224.68] Maybe today -[4224.68 --> 4225.60] That was not him -[4225.60 --> 4226.22] My grandpa -[4226.22 --> 4227.92] Was super conservative -[4227.92 --> 4229.64] Right -[4229.64 --> 4230.86] He was part -[4230.86 --> 4231.70] Of a church tradition -[4231.70 --> 4232.90] That sang only -[4232.90 --> 4233.52] With organs -[4233.52 --> 4234.16] And usually -[4234.16 --> 4235.42] Only genevan psalms -[4235.42 --> 4238.30] And -[4238.30 --> 4239.54] If you -[4239.54 --> 4240.32] Are honest -[4240.32 --> 4241.14] About who my grandpa -[4241.14 --> 4241.52] Is -[4241.52 --> 4243.14] My dad will agree -[4243.14 --> 4243.46] With this -[4243.46 --> 4244.12] More than my mom -[4244.12 --> 4244.40] Maybe -[4244.40 --> 4244.90] But he was -[4244.90 --> 4245.44] Pretty stubborn -[4245.44 --> 4245.96] Sometimes -[4245.96 --> 4247.66] He wasn't always -[4247.66 --> 4248.16] The easiest -[4248.16 --> 4249.06] To get along with -[4249.06 --> 4252.68] But when you -[4252.68 --> 4253.54] Stood beside him -[4253.54 --> 4254.18] In church -[4254.18 --> 4256.80] When you looked -[4256.80 --> 4257.62] At his face -[4257.62 --> 4259.84] As he worshipped -[4259.84 --> 4262.12] His was a heart -[4262.12 --> 4263.38] Full of affection -[4263.38 --> 4264.64] For Jesus -[4264.64 --> 4266.80] And I remember -[4266.80 --> 4267.12] That -[4267.12 --> 4268.26] I remember -[4268.26 --> 4269.84] My grandmother's -[4269.84 --> 4270.24] Funeral -[4270.24 --> 4271.78] I was in -[4271.78 --> 4272.36] Grade 12 -[4272.36 --> 4275.60] And we sang -[4275.60 --> 4276.76] Great is thy -[4276.76 --> 4277.30] Faithfulness -[4277.30 --> 4278.46] If you know -[4278.46 --> 4279.00] That song -[4279.00 --> 4280.52] You can understand -[4280.52 --> 4281.06] The connection -[4281.06 --> 4281.58] If you don't -[4281.58 --> 4282.10] Know the song -[4282.10 --> 4283.28] The last verse -[4283.28 --> 4284.10] Says -[4284.10 --> 4285.70] Pardon for sin -[4285.70 --> 4286.50] And a peace -[4286.50 --> 4287.70] That endureth -[4287.70 --> 4288.90] Thine own dear -[4288.90 --> 4289.80] Presence to cheer -[4289.80 --> 4290.46] And to guide -[4290.46 --> 4291.60] Strength -[4291.60 --> 4292.74] For today -[4292.74 --> 4294.18] And bright hope -[4294.18 --> 4295.40] For tomorrow -[4295.40 --> 4298.00] Blessings all mine -[4298.00 --> 4299.68] With 10,000 beside -[4299.68 --> 4301.56] Here we are -[4301.56 --> 4302.26] At the funeral -[4302.26 --> 4303.34] Of his wife -[4303.34 --> 4305.48] And he sang -[4305.48 --> 4306.18] This song -[4306.18 --> 4307.96] With conviction -[4307.96 --> 4310.12] And with dedication -[4310.12 --> 4311.56] And maybe -[4311.56 --> 4313.56] Not so much -[4313.56 --> 4314.80] This I believe -[4314.80 --> 4316.14] But this I want -[4316.14 --> 4317.90] To live out of -[4317.90 --> 4320.36] And I will -[4320.36 --> 4321.04] Never forget -[4321.04 --> 4322.94] Looking at him -[4322.94 --> 4325.32] And seeing that -[4325.32 --> 4327.26] There he stood -[4327.26 --> 4328.34] Solid -[4328.34 --> 4329.66] As a rock -[4329.66 --> 4330.84] Unmoving -[4330.84 --> 4331.82] In his person -[4331.82 --> 4335.72] But looking -[4335.72 --> 4337.88] To Jesus -[4337.88 --> 4339.62] True worship -[4339.62 --> 4341.60] And I could see it -[4341.60 --> 4343.82] Like Abel -[4343.82 --> 4345.58] My grandfather's story -[4345.58 --> 4346.70] In that moment -[4346.70 --> 4347.60] Is one that -[4347.60 --> 4348.60] Helps me see -[4348.60 --> 4349.50] What genuine -[4349.50 --> 4350.48] Affection -[4350.48 --> 4351.38] In worship -[4351.38 --> 4352.42] Looks like -[4352.42 --> 4354.08] And his story -[4354.08 --> 4355.68] Has changed me -[4355.68 --> 4357.88] So I want to ask you -[4357.88 --> 4360.24] Who are the people -[4360.24 --> 4362.20] In your life -[4362.20 --> 4363.94] Whose stories -[4363.94 --> 4365.28] Have changed you -[4365.28 --> 4366.18] Whose stories -[4366.18 --> 4367.58] Whose lives -[4367.58 --> 4368.82] Have shown you -[4368.82 --> 4369.72] What genuine -[4369.72 --> 4370.44] Affection -[4370.44 --> 4371.36] In worship -[4371.36 --> 4372.36] Looks like -[4372.36 --> 4373.76] Who has helped -[4373.76 --> 4374.78] You learn -[4374.78 --> 4375.88] How to worship -[4375.88 --> 4376.40] God -[4376.40 --> 4378.30] Well and rightly -[4378.30 --> 4380.72] And then maybe -[4380.72 --> 4382.40] Over lunch today -[4382.40 --> 4384.24] Or in this evening -[4384.24 --> 4385.36] Or sometime -[4385.36 --> 4386.30] Throughout this week -[4386.30 --> 4387.80] Talk with your people -[4387.80 --> 4389.56] Right -[4389.56 --> 4390.54] Talk with your friends -[4390.54 --> 4392.12] Talk with your care groups -[4392.12 --> 4393.44] Talk with your families -[4393.44 --> 4393.64] Right -[4393.64 --> 4394.54] Whoever it is -[4394.54 --> 4395.14] That has helped -[4395.14 --> 4396.40] Shape the attitude -[4396.40 --> 4397.46] Of your heart -[4397.46 --> 4398.10] When it comes -[4398.10 --> 4399.28] To worshiping God -[4399.28 --> 4400.44] Talk to them -[4400.44 --> 4402.74] Share that -[4402.74 --> 4403.94] With the people -[4403.94 --> 4404.62] Around you -[4404.62 --> 4407.08] And then -[4407.08 --> 4408.48] Wonder together -[4408.48 --> 4410.16] How -[4410.16 --> 4412.52] How can God -[4412.52 --> 4413.52] Use me -[4413.52 --> 4415.34] Like he used -[4415.34 --> 4415.72] Abel -[4415.72 --> 4417.12] Like he used -[4417.12 --> 4417.84] My grandfather -[4417.84 --> 4419.52] To lead others -[4419.52 --> 4420.64] To this genuine -[4420.64 --> 4422.22] Affection -[4422.22 --> 4423.50] For Jesus -[4423.50 --> 4424.74] In worship -[4424.74 --> 4426.70] At this point -[4426.70 --> 4427.24] I'm going to invite -[4427.24 --> 4427.90] The worship team -[4427.90 --> 4428.44] To come back -[4428.44 --> 4429.24] Up to the front -[4429.24 --> 4430.82] We are going to -[4430.82 --> 4431.74] Stand and sing -[4431.74 --> 4432.18] Together -[4432.18 --> 4433.18] Great is thy -[4433.18 --> 4433.62] Faithfulness -[4433.62 --> 4435.94] As we sing -[4435.94 --> 4436.96] This song -[4436.96 --> 4438.98] Let the spirit -[4438.98 --> 4440.20] Speak to your heart -[4440.20 --> 4441.78] And lead you -[4441.78 --> 4443.04] Not only into -[4443.04 --> 4444.82] Genuine worship -[4444.82 --> 4445.62] But also -[4445.62 --> 4446.72] To place -[4446.72 --> 4448.20] On your mind -[4448.20 --> 4449.98] And in your heart -[4449.98 --> 4450.98] Someone -[4450.98 --> 4452.42] Whom you -[4452.42 --> 4453.70] Need to talk to -[4453.70 --> 4454.38] This week -[4454.38 --> 4455.64] And share -[4455.64 --> 4457.34] This story -[4457.34 --> 4458.30] With -[4458.30 --> 4459.40] Amen -[4459.40 --> 4461.84] Let's stand together -[4461.84 --> 4462.92] We're going to sing -[4462.92 --> 4463.80] As our -[4463.80 --> 4464.74] Closing prayer -[4464.74 --> 4466.26] vell -[4494.74 --> 4510.60] Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father. -[4510.60 --> 4519.92] There is no shadow of turning with me. -[4519.92 --> 4527.92] Thou changest from your compassion, faith in me. -[4529.04 --> 4535.92] As thou hast been, thou forever wilt be. -[4537.78 --> 4544.92] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[4544.92 --> 4552.92] Morning by morning, through mercies I see. -[4554.62 --> 4561.92] All I have here, thy hand hath provided. -[4563.12 --> 4570.54] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me. -[4570.54 --> 4581.54] Summer and winter and springtime and harvest. -[4582.54 --> 4589.54] Sun, moon, and stars in their courses above. -[4589.54 --> 4599.58] Join with all the nature in man and fall in blues. -[4599.58 --> 4607.54] To thy great faithfulness, mercy and love. -[4607.54 --> 4615.54] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[4615.54 --> 4624.54] Morning by morning, through mercies I see. -[4624.54 --> 4633.54] All I have needed, thy hand hath provided. -[4633.54 --> 4642.54] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me. -[4642.54 --> 4644.54] God bless you. -[4644.54 --> 4654.54] Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth. -[4654.54 --> 4663.54] Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide. -[4663.54 --> 4664.54] Open for light, through mercies I see. -[4664.54 --> 4665.54] Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow. -[4665.54 --> 4670.54] Bright hope for tomorrow. -[4670.54 --> 4679.54] Blessings all mine with ten thousand beside. -[4679.54 --> 4688.54] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[4688.54 --> 4691.36] Thy faithfulness -[4691.36 --> 4695.04] Morning by morning -[4695.04 --> 4699.14] Through mercies I see -[4699.14 --> 4704.04] All I am needed -[4704.04 --> 4708.14] Thy hand hath provided -[4708.14 --> 4714.04] Great is Thy faithfulness -[4714.04 --> 4719.04] Glory unto me -[4719.04 --> 4726.46] Amen. You may have a seat together. -[4729.04 --> 4733.90] We're going to take this time and come to the Lord's table together. -[4734.32 --> 4740.94] As we do, there's a bit of a liturgy spoken and received that we participate in. -[4741.02 --> 4743.46] You'll see that on the screen behind me. -[4743.46 --> 4745.60] I encourage you to speak your part. -[4745.68 --> 4747.88] The words there that are in yellow. -[4748.72 --> 4749.94] We come then to the table. -[4750.08 --> 4751.96] And so lift up your hearts. -[4754.54 --> 4757.14] Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. -[4760.24 --> 4761.34] Let's pray together. -[4761.34 --> 4766.72] With joy we praise you, gracious God. -[4767.22 --> 4769.36] For you have created heaven and earth. -[4769.46 --> 4775.14] You have made us in your image and kept covenant with us even when we fell into sin. -[4775.98 --> 4784.78] We give you thanks for Jesus Christ, who by his life, death, and resurrection opened to us the way of life everlasting. -[4784.78 --> 4785.78] Amen. -[4785.78 --> 4786.00] Amen. -[4789.00 --> 4798.08] Our Lord Jesus, before he suffered, gave us this memorial of his sacrifice until he comes again. -[4798.08 --> 4803.70] The Lord Jesus, on the night that he was betrayed, took bread. -[4805.34 --> 4808.12] And when he had given thanks, he broke it and he said, -[4808.44 --> 4811.18] This is my body, which is for you. -[4812.30 --> 4815.54] Do this in remembrance of me. -[4815.54 --> 4822.30] In the same way, he took the cup after supper, saying, -[4823.04 --> 4826.18] This cup is the new covenant in my blood. -[4827.18 --> 4831.22] Do this whenever you drink it in remembrance of me. -[4832.06 --> 4835.74] For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, -[4835.88 --> 4840.64] you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes again. -[4840.64 --> 4846.88] This is the mystery of our faith. -[4848.38 --> 4851.08] Your death, O Christ, we proclaim. -[4851.84 --> 4854.46] Your resurrection, we affirm with joy. -[4855.34 --> 4857.46] Your coming, we await with hope. -[4858.38 --> 4860.52] Glory be to you, Lord Jesus. -[4862.58 --> 4867.66] Church family, the Lord has prepared his table for all who love him -[4867.66 --> 4871.12] and all who trust in him alone for their salvation. -[4871.90 --> 4877.92] And so, come to this table, you who have much faith and you who would like to have more. -[4878.78 --> 4882.82] Come to this table, you who have been to the sacrament often -[4882.82 --> 4885.42] and you who have not been for a long time. -[4885.52 --> 4890.66] Come to this table, you who have tried to follow Jesus and you who have failed. -[4891.40 --> 4897.24] Come to this table because Jesus Christ is raised and he welcomes you here. -[4897.66 --> 4902.82] Come to this table if you are present with us or if you are joining us online. -[4904.54 --> 4905.80] Come to this table. -[4906.56 --> 4910.18] The gifts of God for the people of God. -[4911.44 --> 4917.18] As we come to this table, we will approach the front and gather in a circle around -[4917.18 --> 4920.00] and then we will pass the elements around. -[4920.20 --> 4924.46] As you pass the bread, I encourage you to say the body of Christ given for you. -[4924.46 --> 4930.24] As you pass the juice, I encourage you as well to say the blood of Christ shed for you. -[4931.48 --> 4936.96] If you are interested in the center of each tray is gluten-free bread. -[4938.14 --> 4943.92] If you would like or are unable to take the risk of that gluten-free bread having touched -[4943.92 --> 4947.26] the white bread in there because of celiac or some other thing, please indicate that -[4947.26 --> 4949.76] and we have one here that has been completely set to the side -[4949.76 --> 4951.48] and we will serve you from there as well. -[4951.48 --> 4956.10] We are going to begin with those who are helping us worship. -[4956.68 --> 4961.40] The worship team, the elders who will come up to the front and the ushers who will indicate -[4961.40 --> 4962.68] when it is time for you to go. -[4963.04 --> 4967.32] People of the back of house, I invite you all to come to the front here to be served -[4967.32 --> 4969.56] and then we will move through as indicated. -[4969.56 --> 4981.84] As this group is making their way up to the front, if you are interested in praying with someone, -[4982.06 --> 4985.92] receiving prayer, or praying through an issue or circumstance, -[4986.22 --> 4991.14] there are people available in the foyer who have name tags with yellow squares on them. -[4991.14 --> 4997.10] They would love to meet with you for prayer as well. -[5002.56 --> 5004.06] Body of Christ given for you. -[5006.46 --> 5007.76] Body of Christ given for you. -[5015.48 --> 5016.68] Body of Christ given for you. -[5017.48 --> 5018.66] Body of Christ given for you. -[5018.66 --> 5018.78] Body of Christ given for you. -[5019.04 --> 5020.76] Body of Christ given for you. -[5020.76 --> 5022.58] Oh, that was quick. -[5041.36 --> 5043.36] Eat and remember. -[5050.76 --> 5066.18] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[5070.48 --> 5071.76] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[5075.22 --> 5076.56] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[5080.76 --> 5110.74] Thank you. -[5110.76 --> 5112.92] Drink and believe. -[5128.10 --> 5132.88] As well, if you are unable to come up to the front but would like to receive the Lord's Supper, -[5133.00 --> 5137.26] please indicate that to the elder ushers and they will serve you in your seats. -[5140.76 --> 5170.74] Thank you. -[5170.76 --> 5172.76] Thank you. -[5172.76 --> 5174.76] Thank you. -[5202.76 --> 5204.76] Thank you. -[5204.76 --> 5206.76] Thank you. -[5206.76 --> 5208.76] Thank you. -[5208.76 --> 5210.76] Thank you. -[5210.76 --> 5240.76] -[5240.76 --> 5242.76] Thank you. -[5242.76 --> 5244.76] Thank you. -[5244.76 --> 5246.76] Thank you. -[5246.76 --> 5248.76] Thank you. -[5248.76 --> 5250.76] Thank you. -[5250.76 --> 5252.76] Thank you. -[5252.76 --> 5254.76] Thank you. -[5254.76 --> 5256.76] Thank you. -[5256.76 --> 5258.76] Thank you. -[5258.76 --> 5260.76] Thank you. -[5260.76 --> 5262.76] Thank you. -[5262.76 --> 5264.76] Thank you. -[5264.76 --> 5266.76] Thank you. -[5266.76 --> 5268.76] Thank you. -[5268.76 --> 5270.76] Thank you. -[5270.76 --> 5272.76] Thank you. -[5272.76 --> 5274.76] Thank you. -[5274.76 --> 5276.76] Thank you. -[5276.76 --> 5278.76] Thank you. -[5278.76 --> 5280.76] Thank you. -[5280.76 --> 5282.76] Thank you. -[5282.76 --> 5284.76] Thank you. -[5284.76 --> 5286.76] Thank you. -[5286.76 --> 5288.76] Thank you. -[5288.76 --> 5290.76] Thank you. -[5290.76 --> 5292.76] Thank you. -[5292.76 --> 5294.76] Thank you. -[5294.76 --> 5296.76] Thank you. -[5296.76 --> 5298.76] Thank you. -[5298.76 --> 5300.76] Thank you. -[5300.76 --> 5302.76] Thank you. -[5302.76 --> 5304.76] Thank you. -[5304.76 --> 5306.76] Thank you. -[5306.76 --> 5308.76] Thank you. -[5308.76 --> 5310.76] Thank you. -[5310.76 --> 5312.76] Thank you. -[5312.76 --> 5314.76] Thank you. -[5314.76 --> 5318.64] We lift our eyes -[5318.64 --> 5325.80] Jesus, our glory and our pride -[5325.80 --> 5331.70] We adore you, behold you -[5331.70 --> 5334.96] Our Savior ever true -[5334.96 --> 5341.76] Oh Jesus, we turn our eyes to you -[5344.76 --> 5354.76] Turn your eyes to the heavens -[5354.76 --> 5362.20] Our King will return for his own -[5362.20 --> 5366.98] Every knee will bow -[5366.98 --> 5370.86] Every tongue will shout -[5370.86 --> 5377.86] All glory to Jesus, our Lord -[5377.86 --> 5384.86] Jesus, to you we lift our eyes -[5384.86 --> 5392.86] Jesus, our glory and our pride -[5392.86 --> 5397.86] We adore you, behold you -[5397.86 --> 5401.86] Our Savior ever true -[5401.86 --> 5407.86] Oh Jesus, we turn our eyes to you -[5407.86 --> 5414.86] Jesus, to you we lift our eyes -[5414.86 --> 5421.86] Jesus, our glory and our pride -[5421.86 --> 5423.86] Jesus, our glory and our pride -[5423.86 --> 5428.86] We adore you, behold you -[5428.86 --> 5431.86] Our Savior ever true -[5431.86 --> 5436.86] Oh Jesus, we turn our eyes to you -[5436.86 --> 5443.86] Jesus, we turn our eyes to you -[5443.86 --> 5447.86] Oh Jesus, we turn our eyes to you -[5447.86 --> 5449.86] Oh Jesus, we turn our eyes to you -[5449.86 --> 5464.86] Amen -[5464.86 --> 5466.86] Jesus, we turn our eyes to you -[5466.86 --> 5470.86] Jesus, we turn our eyes to you -[5470.86 --> 5486.76] Are you hurting and broken again? -[5487.58 --> 5492.08] Overwhelmed by the weight of your sin? -[5492.08 --> 5495.58] Jesus is calling you. -[5495.58 --> 5502.58] Have you come to the end of yourself? -[5503.44 --> 5507.64] Do you thirst for a drink from the well? -[5508.12 --> 5510.80] Jesus is calling you. -[5514.30 --> 5519.68] Welcome to the altar. -[5520.58 --> 5525.18] The Father's arms are open wide. -[5525.58 --> 5535.58] For goodness was bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[5535.58 --> 5550.58] Leave behind your regrets and mistakes. -[5550.58 --> 5555.90] Come today, there's no reason to wait. -[5556.34 --> 5559.26] Jesus is calling you. -[5559.26 --> 5565.26] Bring your sorrows and drink and enjoy. -[5566.26 --> 5570.26] From the ashes of you the light is born. -[5570.26 --> 5575.26] Jesus is calling you. -[5575.26 --> 5580.26] Welcome to the altar. -[5580.26 --> 5585.26] The Father's arms are open wide. -[5585.26 --> 5595.26] For goodness was bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[5595.26 --> 5600.26] Oh, come to the altar. -[5600.26 --> 5605.26] The Father's arms are open wide. -[5605.26 --> 5616.26] For goodness was bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[5616.26 --> 5617.26] Oh, what a Savior. -[5617.26 --> 5618.26] Oh, what a Savior. -[5618.26 --> 5623.26] Isn't he wonderful? -[5623.26 --> 5624.26] Sing hallelujah. -[5624.26 --> 5625.26] Christ is risen. -[5625.26 --> 5626.26] Oh, what a Savior. -[5626.26 --> 5627.26] Isn't he wonderful? -[5627.26 --> 5628.26] Oh, what a Savior. -[5628.26 --> 5630.26] Isn't he wonderful? -[5630.26 --> 5631.26] Sing hallelujah. -[5631.26 --> 5632.26] Christ is risen. -[5632.26 --> 5633.26] Isn't he wonderful? -[5633.26 --> 5637.26] Isn't he wonderful? -[5637.26 --> 5638.26] Sing hallelujah. -[5638.26 --> 5643.26] Christ is risen. -[5643.26 --> 5645.26] Christ is risen. -[5645.26 --> 5646.26] Isn't he wonderful? -[5646.26 --> 5648.26] Sing hallelujah. -[5648.26 --> 5649.26] Christ is risen. -[5649.26 --> 5653.26] For he is Lord of all. -[5653.26 --> 5658.26] Sing hallelujah. -[5658.26 --> 5659.26] Sing hallelujah. -[5659.26 --> 5666.26] Christ is risen. -[5666.26 --> 5670.26] Oh, what a Savior. -[5670.26 --> 5676.82] Isn't he wonderful? -[5677.86 --> 5684.80] Sing hallelujah, Christ is risen. -[5687.88 --> 5697.16] Bow down before him, for he is Lord of all. -[5697.16 --> 5703.80] Sing hallelujah, Christ is risen. -[5708.16 --> 5713.40] Oh, come to the altar. -[5714.54 --> 5718.96] The Father's arms are open wide. -[5718.96 --> 5727.96] Forgiveness was bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[5728.96 --> 5732.96] Oh, come to the altar. -[5734.02 --> 5738.42] The Father's arms are open wide. -[5738.42 --> 5748.42] Forgiveness was bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[5748.42 --> 5763.42] Bear your cross as you wait for the crown. -[5764.42 --> 5769.42] Tell the world of the treasure you found. -[5769.42 --> 5770.42] Amen. -[5770.42 --> 5772.42] Amen. -[5772.42 --> 5772.82] Amen. -[5773.42 --> 5774.42] Amen. -[5774.42 --> 5775.38] Amen. -[5775.42 --> 5775.98] Amen. -[5776.42 --> 5777.96] Amen. -[5778.42 --> 5779.42] Amen. -[5779.42 --> 5780.04] Amen. -[5780.42 --> 5781.42] Amen. -[5782.42 --> 5785.42] Amen. -[5785.42 --> 5786.38] Amen. -[5786.42 --> 5787.42] Amen. -[5787.42 --> 5789.04] Amen. -[5789.42 --> 5790.42] Amen. -[5790.42 --> 5792.42] Amen. -[5792.42 --> 5820.70] My hope is built on nothing less -[5820.70 --> 5825.28] In Jesus' blood and righteousness -[5825.28 --> 5833.28] I dare not trust the sweetest faith -[5833.28 --> 5839.72] But only trust in Jesus' name -[5839.72 --> 5850.68] My hope is built on nothing less -[5850.68 --> 5855.26] In Jesus' blood and righteousness -[5855.26 --> 5862.68] I dare not trust the sweetest faith -[5862.68 --> 5869.68] But only trust in Jesus' name -[5869.68 --> 5877.68] Christ alone, cornerstone -[5878.20 --> 5884.90] He played strong in the Savior's love -[5884.90 --> 5888.10] Through the storm -[5888.10 --> 5895.10] He is Lord, Lord of all -[5895.10 --> 5906.52] When darkness seems to hide His face -[5906.52 --> 5912.52] I rest on His unchanging grace -[5912.52 --> 5918.52] In every high and stormy day -[5918.52 --> 5924.52] My anchor holds to be in the bay -[5924.52 --> 5932.52] My anchor holds to be in the bay -[5932.52 --> 5939.52] Christ the Lord, cornerstone -[5939.52 --> 5946.52] He played strong in the Savior's love -[5946.52 --> 5950.52] Through the storm -[5950.52 --> 5957.52] He is Lord, Lord of all -[5957.52 --> 5968.52] And He shall come with trumpet sound -[5968.52 --> 5974.52] Oh, may I then in Him be found -[5974.52 --> 5980.52] Dressed in His righteousness alone -[5980.52 --> 5987.52] All may stand before the throne -[5987.52 --> 5995.52] Christ the Lord, cornerstone -[5995.52 --> 5996.52] Weak made strong in the Savior's love -[5996.52 --> 5998.52] Weak made strong in the Savior's love -[5998.52 --> 5999.52] Savior's love -[5999.52 --> 6000.52] Savior's love -[6000.52 --> 6001.52] Savior's love -[6001.52 --> 6002.52] Savior's love -[6002.52 --> 6003.52] Savior's love -[6003.52 --> 6004.52] Savior's love -[6004.52 --> 6006.52] Through the storm -[6006.52 --> 6008.52] He is Lord, Lord of all -[6008.52 --> 6009.52] Lord of all -[6009.52 --> 6013.52] Lord of all -[6013.52 --> 6015.52] Lord of all -[6015.52 --> 6018.52] Christ the Lord, cornerstone -[6018.52 --> 6021.52] Weak made strong in the Savior's love -[6021.52 --> 6023.52] Lord of all -[6023.52 --> 6024.52] Christ the Lord, cornerstone -[6024.52 --> 6028.52] Weak made strong in the Savior's love -[6028.52 --> 6029.52] Through the storm -[6029.52 --> 6031.52] He is Lord, Lord of all -[6031.52 --> 6033.52] Through the storm -[6033.52 --> 6042.52] He is Lord, Lord of all -[6042.52 --> 6044.52] He is Lord, Lord of all -[6044.52 --> 6046.52] He is Lord, Lord of all -[6046.52 --> 6056.52] He is Lord, Lord of all -[6056.52 --> 6057.52] Send it together -[6057.52 --> 6058.52] Let's pray -[6060.52 --> 6062.52] Amazing God -[6062.52 --> 6064.52] You come into our ordinary lives -[6064.52 --> 6067.52] And set a holy table among us -[6068.52 --> 6070.52] Filling our plates with the bread of life -[6070.52 --> 6073.52] And our cups with salvation -[6074.52 --> 6077.52] Send us out, O God, with tender-heartedness -[6077.52 --> 6080.52] To touch an ordinary everyday world -[6080.52 --> 6084.52] With the promise of your extraordinary presence -[6084.52 --> 6087.52] In Christ Jesus we pray -[6087.52 --> 6088.52] Amen -[6091.52 --> 6093.52] As you go this week -[6093.52 --> 6095.52] Go with the blessing of God -[6095.52 --> 6098.52] Go with an invitation to fellowship afterwards -[6099.52 --> 6100.52] And with a gentle reminder -[6101.52 --> 6103.52] That there's a couple opportunities to volunteer -[6103.52 --> 6106.52] And serve today as well -[6106.52 --> 6108.52] Both in setting up for kids' camp -[6108.52 --> 6111.52] And taking some routes to deliver those bags -[6111.52 --> 6113.52] Hope to see you next Saturday -[6113.52 --> 6115.52] At the food drive -[6115.52 --> 6117.52] Brunch and festival together -[6118.52 --> 6120.52] Go then with the blessing of God -[6120.52 --> 6124.52] God go before you -[6124.52 --> 6125.52] To lead you -[6126.52 --> 6127.52] God go behind you -[6127.52 --> 6128.52] To protect you -[6129.52 --> 6130.52] God go beneath you -[6130.52 --> 6131.52] To support you -[6132.52 --> 6133.52] And God go beside you -[6134.52 --> 6135.52] To befriend you -[6135.52 --> 6137.52] Do not be afraid -[6138.52 --> 6139.52] Let the blessing of God -[6139.52 --> 6140.52] Come upon you today -[6140.52 --> 6141.52] Do not be afraid -[6141.52 --> 6142.52] Be afraid -[6142.52 --> 6144.52] But go in peace -[6144.52 --> 6146.52] To love and serve the Lord -[6147.52 --> 6148.52] Amen -[6148.52 --> 6149.52] Amen -[6149.52 --> 6156.52] There is a redeemed -[6156.52 --> 6157.80] more -[6158.52 --> 6166.74] , -[6167.52 --> 6172.52] Then he하 Re ultimate -[6172.52 --> 6181.00] There is a Redeemer -[6181.00 --> 6187.22] Jesus, God's own Son -[6187.22 --> 6194.06] Precious Lamb of God, Messiah -[6194.06 --> 6200.00] Holy One -[6200.00 --> 6207.24] Thank You, Lord, I come to Him -[6207.24 --> 6213.20] For giving us Your Son -[6213.20 --> 6219.18] And giving Your Spirit -[6219.18 --> 6225.12] The work on earth is done -[6225.12 --> 6232.36] Jesus, my Redeemer -[6232.36 --> 6238.36] Made above all things -[6238.36 --> 6244.36] Precious Lamb of God, Messiah -[6244.36 --> 6249.36] Hope for sinners -[6249.36 --> 6257.60] Thank You, Lord, I come to Him -[6257.60 --> 6263.60] For giving us Your Son -[6263.60 --> 6269.84] And giving Your Spirit -[6269.84 --> 6275.84] The work on earth is done -[6275.84 --> 6283.08] When I stand in glory -[6283.08 --> 6289.08] I will see this day -[6289.08 --> 6296.32] There I'll serve my King forever -[6296.32 --> 6302.32] In that holy prayer -[6302.32 --> 6309.56] Thank You, Lord, I come to Him -[6309.56 --> 6315.56] For giving us Your Son -[6315.56 --> 6321.56] And giving Your Spirit -[6321.56 --> 6328.80] The work on earth is done -[6328.80 --> 6332.04] Thank You, Lord, I come to Him -[6332.04 --> 6336.04] Thank You, Lord, I come to Him -[6336.04 --> 6342.04] For giving us Your Son -[6342.04 --> 6348.04] And leaving Your Spirit -[6348.04 --> 6355.28] Till the work on earth is done -[6355.28 --> 6358.52] For giving us Your Son -[6358.52 --> 6360.52] Amen -[6360.52 --> 6362.52] Amen -[6362.52 --> 6392.50] Thank you. -[6392.52 --> 6422.50] Thank you. -[6422.52 --> 6452.50] Thank you. -[6452.52 --> 6482.50] Thank you. -[6482.52 --> 6512.50] Thank you. -[6512.52 --> 6542.50] Thank you. -[6542.52 --> 6572.50] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 12, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 12, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 646abdf14f2ddcf17a5b2970d3d1f1cdecbf04ad..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 12, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,155 +0,0 @@ -• Worship and praise to God -• Confession of past struggles and mistakes -• Expression of gratitude for God's love and redemption -• Reflection on the faithfulness and goodness of God -• Declaration of being loved by God despite imperfections and worthlessness -• Repetition of phrase "You love me as you find me" -• Celebrating Lord's Supper in worship -• Welcoming a new member to the church -• Changes to Children's Worship Time for summer months -• Volunteer appreciation event (All Leaders Lunch) on June 18th -• Breakout sessions at All Leaders Lunch, including topics such as ministry to children and refugees -• Upcoming events and opportunities to connect with others in the church -• Inviting people to worship and receive God's presence -• Reading from Psalm 63:1-4, discussing thirst for God and seeking Him -• Reflecting on Jesus' sacrifice at Calvary, His wounds, and resurrection -• Praising the name of the Lord our God forevermore -• Singing praise to God for endless days -• Belonging to God, body and soul -• Salvation through Christ -• Living for God and His kingdom -• Faith expressed through prayer and confession -• The Apostles' Creed as a summary of faith -• Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior -• Resurrection and eternal life through Him -• The speaker mentions a special offering for the night shift, a registered non-profit organization providing mobile outreach and care. -• Philippians 3:13-14 is referenced as inspiration to press on towards the goal of winning the prize for which God has called us in Christ Jesus. -• The speaker reflects on the hope of heaven, where pain is gone and mercy fills the streets, and looks forward to a day when all will bow to Christ and death will be no more. -• Various hymns and songs are sung, including "Holy, holy is the Lord" and "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain". -• The speaker welcomes a new member into the church fellowship. -• Introduction of Yap as a new member -• Official welcome and reaffirmation of faith -• Three questions for Yap regarding his faith in Jesus Christ -• Yap's answers to the three questions -• Invitation to Yap (and others) to ask questions about belonging to the church family -• Children's blessing and announcements -• Upcoming congregational meeting on June 26th -• Reviewing financials from 2021 -• Affirming new office bearers -• Nominees for elder and deacon positions -• Upcoming Professional Faith presentations next Sunday featuring Kaylee Spohr, Ruth Baker, and James Porter -• Morning service discussion of the story of Jonah -• Plans for summer break -• School's almost done and upcoming graduations -• Gratitude for family and church community -• Church service and confession of sins -• Leadership roles within the church -• Thankfulness for opportunities to learn and grow -• Prayers for wisdom and insight after graduation -• Time traveling and missions trips -• Trade school or university education options -• Prayer for guidance and plans for the future -• Mourning the passing of Louise Rezabas and praying for her family -• Celebration of new professions of faith (Ruth Baker, James Porter, Kaylee Spohr) -• Welcoming Jaap Wollschlager as a new member of the church -• General prayers for those experiencing pain, loss, or difficulty -• Praying for the world and those affected by conflict in Ukraine -• Seeking understanding and an opportunity for a peaceful future between Russia and Ukraine -• Thanking God for the church and its community -• Commemorating Jesus' sacrifice through the Lord's Supper -• Reflecting on Pastor Chris's message about holy habits -• Praying for all individuals to build these habits in their daily lives -• Expressing gratitude for God's presence in the congregation -• Reading from John 6, exploring Jesus' teachings and the nature of faith -• Jesus' knowledge of who among his disciples did not believe in him and who would betray him -• The importance of spiritual growth through reading the Bible and prayer every day -• A personal anecdote about listening to music on records as a child, used as an illustration for the importance of spiritual practices -• The pastor is asked about his Bible devotion and responds that it could be better. -• He suggests that everyone, including himself, could do more to improve their relationship with God through the Bible. -• The pastor critiques those who give non-committal answers when asked how they're doing with their Bible reading. -• He notes that many people only read the Bible on Sundays or occasionally and don't make it a regular part of their daily life. -• He emphasizes the importance of having a personal, consistent relationship with God through the Bible. -• The importance of bringing one's own Bible to study and highlight -• Using a worn-out Bible as evidence of its use in daily life and devotional reading -• Creating habits around reading the Bible, including making connections and drawing from it -• Clarifying that the speaker is not trying to guilt or shame listeners into reading their Bibles more -• The goal of casting a compelling vision for engaging with one's Bible -• Introduction to a new series of lessons -• Discussion of the "Disciple of Jesus" books and how they are intended to help participants engage with the material throughout the week -• Reminder to obtain a copy of the book if one was not obtained previously -• Introduction to the concept of "listening to Jesus" as a holy habit -• Review of previous discussion on training ears to listen to scripture -• The importance of listening and practicing holy habits in one's life -• How these habits have both an inward and outward aspect -• How discipline and habit can grow one's relationship with God and Jesus -• The opportunity for growth and serving others through holy habits -• Studying the word of God, specifically John 6, to understand how to take in Jesus like food -• Jesus is talking about the truth of the miracle of feeding 5,000 people -• The miracle was a physical act of breaking bread and passing it out to everyone -• Jesus reminds them that they came seeking him because they had their fill from eating the loaves, not just for miraculous signs -• He wants to expose the truth of their hearts and reveal what's truly happening in their lives -• Importance of interactions with Jesus -• Physical and spiritual needs -• Belief in the one sent by God -• Encountering and being found by Him -• Jesus' statement about the work of God -• Connection between believing in a person and receiving miraculous signs -• Comparison to the Israelites who ate manna in the desert -• Spiritual needs vs physical/material demands for signs -• Misunderstanding and making something about a sign rather than spiritual reality -• The true meaning of salvation is not about what Jesus provides in a physical way, but about following his teachings and example. -• People are often tempted to make the Christian faith about receiving material blessings or benefits from God. -• The focus should be on making as much of the life that Jesus gives us as we can, rather than just paying lip service to him. -• It is not necessary to have physical needs met in order to follow Christ and experience his presence in one's life. -• Jesus declares himself as the Bread of Life -• People who come to him will never go hungry and those who believe in him will never be thirsty -• Filling oneself with spiritual reality is essential -• Jesus names the spiritual need that has to be filled in people -• Attempting to rationalize or dismiss the spiritual reality is futile -• Discussion of Jesus' divinity and humanity -• Rationalization and minimizing of Jesus' claims -• Argument among the apostles about Jesus' identity -• Admittance that Jesus' teachings are unusual and confusing -• Mention of John's text in verse 66, referencing the same idea -• Disciples turning back on Jesus -• Difficulty in accepting and following unconventional teachings -• Comparison to C.S. Lewis' idea of faith vs. worldly standards -• Downplaying the significance of Jesus' teachings as just moral lessons -• Jesus makes a statement about being Lord, Savior, and God -• Lewis says there are only three options: Jesus is a liar, lunatic, or Lord -• Jesus' teachings about himself are often misunderstood or rationalized away by people -• The need for the gospel and Jesus to expose spiritual realities in people's hearts -• The concept of "radical insecurity" and how it relates to faith -• John Calvin's commentary on the hardness of heart being the reason for resistance to Jesus' teachings -• Jesus' statement about eating his flesh and drinking his blood to have eternal life -• Jesus' teaching on eating his flesh and drinking his blood -• Double imputation: Jesus lived perfectly, giving us his righteousness, and bore our punishment for sin -• The concept of taking in Jesus' word as a spiritual metaphor for spiritual nourishment -• The importance of hearing God's love for His people through Scripture reading and preaching -• The strongest form of self-love is knowing that God loves us and that Jesus lived the life we should have lived. -• The word of God is alive, active, and sharper than a double-edged sword, penetrating soul and spirit. -• The word gets into a person deeply, revealing truth and judging thoughts and attitudes. -• Scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness. -• The inward aspect of the holy habit is being found in the word, while the outward aspect is living out that truth in community. -• The word is the fuel of eternal life in Jesus Christ and means connection to Him through faith. -• The Lord's Supper is a memorial of Jesus' sacrifice, and participating in it proclaims His death and resurrection. -• All are invited to come to the table, regardless of their level of faith or past experiences. -• Mention of gluten-free bread option -• Reading from scripture or prayer, with themes of obedience, humility, and faith -• Reference to the body of Christ and its beauty -• Discussion of sacrifice and the love of Christ for humanity -• Worship song lyrics, including references to the weight of sin and the sacrifice of Jesus -• Praise and thanksgiving for God's love and mercy -• Reflection on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and personal connection with Him -• Declaration of faithfulness to God through every breath -• Acknowledgment of God's goodness and presence in all aspects of life -• Surrendering to God and giving Him everything -• Repeating the phrase "Your goodness is running after me" -• Prayer and worship of God, including a prayer for guidance, protection, and blessing -• Repeatedly mentioning God's presence and love -• Washing away of sins -• Eternal life and living forever -• Hope due to Jesus' sacrifice and blood -• Joy, gladness, peace, and celebration in heaven -• Expectation of seeing God face-to-face and dancing together -• Acknowledgment of sin being washed away and hope given by God \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 12, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 12, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0042e22823ccb642a569779223556bd3f4b62bd0..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 12, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3152 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 5.44] I will worship you always -[5.44 --> 9.60] And I will worship you -[9.60 --> 13.22] I will worship you -[13.22 --> 19.00] I will worship you always -[19.00 --> 25.44] Father, we're on my knees -[25.44 --> 29.14] With every heartbeat we -[29.14 --> 31.98] We give this offering -[31.98 --> 36.44] Lord, come and fill this place -[36.44 --> 39.80] Father, we're crying out -[39.80 --> 43.56] Spirit, we need you now -[43.56 --> 47.38] Glorious love surrounds -[47.38 --> 52.94] And I will worship you -[52.94 --> 55.94] I will worship you -[55.94 --> 59.78] I will worship you -[59.78 --> 60.90] Always -[60.90 --> 63.50] No matter what -[63.50 --> 66.78] And I will worship you -[66.78 --> 70.28] I will worship you -[70.28 --> 73.78] I will worship you -[73.78 --> 75.28] Always -[75.28 --> 84.74] And I will worship you -[84.74 --> 85.16] I will worship you -[85.16 --> 88.72] I will worship you -[88.72 --> 89.94] Always -[89.94 --> 95.54] And I will worship you -[95.54 --> 98.38] I will worship you -[98.38 --> 100.38] I will worship you -[100.38 --> 102.96] I will worship you -[102.96 --> 104.38] Always -[104.38 --> 125.52] I will worship you -[125.54 --> 128.32] I will worship you -[128.32 --> 142.88] I will worship you -[142.88 --> 143.34] I will worship you -[143.34 --> 147.88] I've been strong and I've been broken with the end of the world. -[149.62 --> 155.68] I've been faithful and I've been reckless in every bend. -[157.52 --> 162.54] I've got everything together and watched the shatter. -[164.68 --> 169.96] I've still told and I have crumbled in the same way. -[169.96 --> 176.94] I have wrestled and I have tripled to your surrender. -[179.16 --> 183.96] Chased my heart, drifted and drifted all over again. -[186.40 --> 191.50] Plungered blessing till I've been desperate to find redemption. -[192.88 --> 199.14] Every time I'd sit around, you'll steal your name. -[199.96 --> 209.36] I was found before I was close. -[210.36 --> 216.94] I was yours before I was not. -[216.94 --> 224.64] Grace keeps spared for all my mistakes. -[225.34 --> 231.34] And that part just breaks me. -[231.34 --> 240.74] I was found before I was close. -[240.74 --> 241.74] I was found before I was close. -[241.74 --> 243.74] I was found before I was close. -[243.74 --> 251.98] First the word if I was close. -[254.14 --> 256.14] I was aí proof. -[256.14 --> 258.14] If I estaban before I was close. -[258.14 --> 263.64] How you love me and crucified -[263.64 --> 282.78] Who am I to think your glory means my praises -[282.78 --> 287.92] But if this borrowed breath is yours, Lord -[287.92 --> 290.24] Take it all -[290.24 --> 294.92] You are faithful and you are gracious -[294.92 --> 297.12] And I'm just grateful -[297.12 --> 302.08] To think you don't need a single thing -[302.08 --> 304.56] You still want my heart -[304.56 --> 311.32] I was found -[311.32 --> 315.32] Before I was lost -[315.32 --> 318.64] I was lost -[318.64 --> 322.32] Before I was lost -[322.32 --> 326.30] You wear the scars -[326.30 --> 329.98] For all my mistakes -[329.98 --> 336.98] And my heart just wears me -[336.98 --> 349.24] Well I love my heart -[349.24 --> 350.02] Don't deserve this curse -[350.02 --> 353.26] It's coming to이다 -[353.26 --> 357.24] It's the mines which we hope -[357.24 --> 366.24] I never mind to be somebody who's still warm so long. -[366.24 --> 372.24] You love me as you find me. -[372.24 --> 378.24] You love me as you find me. -[378.24 --> 386.24] You love me as you find me. -[386.24 --> 393.24] You love me as you find me. -[393.24 --> 398.24] You love me as you find me. -[398.24 --> 402.24] Your love's too good to leave me. -[402.24 --> 405.24] You love me as you find. -[405.24 --> 410.24] Your love's too good to leave me. -[410.24 --> 412.24] You love me as you find me. -[412.24 --> 416.24] You love me as you find me. -[416.24 --> 418.24] You love me as you find me. -[418.24 --> 420.24] You love me as you find me. -[420.24 --> 422.24] You love me as you find me. -[422.24 --> 428.24] You love me as you find me. -[428.24 --> 430.24] You love me as you find me. -[430.24 --> 432.24] You love me as you find me. -[432.24 --> 438.24] You love me as you find me. -[438.24 --> 440.24] You love me as you find me. -[440.24 --> 442.24] You love me as you find me. -[442.24 --> 444.24] You love me as you find me. -[444.24 --> 448.24] You love me as you find me. -[448.24 --> 454.24] You love me as you find me. -[454.24 --> 458.24] Yes, this is the傷 that's too good to leave me. -[458.24 --> 463.74] In my heart, I won't second guess -[463.74 --> 470.32] Cause I need your love more than anything -[470.32 --> 474.76] Cause I may, I'm yours -[474.76 --> 478.64] Your love's too good to be made -[478.64 --> 485.80] Your love's too good to be made -[485.80 --> 492.86] You are my heart, I won't second guess -[492.86 --> 499.40] Cause I need your love more than anything -[499.40 --> 503.84] I may, I'm yours -[503.84 --> 507.78] Your love's too good to be made -[507.78 --> 514.80] Your love's too good to be made -[515.80 --> 522.86] I know I, I don't deserve this kind of love -[522.86 --> 529.86] Somehow, this kind of love is who you are -[529.86 --> 533.86] It's a grace I could never find -[533.86 --> 536.92] To be somebody who's still more -[536.92 --> 543.92] So, I love you as you find -[543.92 --> 550.98] I know I, I don't deserve this kind of love -[550.98 --> 558.04] I know I, I don't deserve this kind of love -[558.04 --> 560.04] I know I, I don't deserve this kind of love -[560.04 --> 567.10] I, I don't deserve this kind of love -[567.10 --> 569.10] I, I don't deserve this kind of love -[569.10 --> 576.16] I, I don't deserve this kind of love -[576.16 --> 580.16] I, I don't deserve this kind of love -[580.16 --> 582.16] I, I don't deserve this kind of love -[582.16 --> 597.22] I, I don't deserve this kind of love -[597.22 --> 610.28] I, I don't deserve this kind of love -[610.28 --> 612.28] Go on stage -[612.28 --> 624.06] Sorry, we're live -[624.06 --> 627.72] Welcome to church -[627.72 --> 631.34] We're so excited to gather to worship together today -[631.34 --> 635.04] If you are visiting with us or checking us out -[635.04 --> 636.12] My name is Chris -[636.12 --> 637.92] I'm one of the pastors here -[637.92 --> 641.30] And it's my privilege, along with a few others yet -[641.30 --> 643.96] To lead you in worship -[643.96 --> 645.68] If you are checking us out -[645.68 --> 647.86] We want to encourage you to grab one of these -[647.86 --> 649.18] And fill it out -[649.18 --> 652.10] There are paper versions available on the back -[652.10 --> 655.34] There's also digital versions, QR codes you can scan -[655.34 --> 658.92] And that just gives us a chance to connect with you -[658.92 --> 662.18] And welcome you into our church family -[662.18 --> 666.54] We are privileged in our worship this morning -[666.54 --> 668.46] To celebrate Lord's Supper -[668.46 --> 670.76] And so we will hear more about that later -[670.76 --> 673.82] If you are joining us online and at home -[673.82 --> 676.40] We encourage you to be prepared for that as well -[676.40 --> 678.38] And also this morning -[678.38 --> 683.00] We will be welcoming a new member -[683.00 --> 687.22] Although, Yap, I don't see you anywhere currently -[687.22 --> 690.68] So maybe we won't -[690.68 --> 693.80] But we'll figure that out as we move through this together, right? -[694.48 --> 694.98] Excellent -[694.98 --> 699.70] There are just a couple other announcements to make this morning -[699.70 --> 702.96] First, Children's Worship Time -[702.96 --> 706.82] Which is the ministry that we run with kids -[706.82 --> 709.12] During our worship -[709.12 --> 712.06] Changes for the summer months -[712.06 --> 715.24] And for the summer months -[715.24 --> 719.70] As they provide that for preschool age kids -[719.70 --> 722.26] Amy and Karis, the coordinators of that -[722.26 --> 724.76] Are hoping to provide some relief -[724.76 --> 728.26] For the regular Children's Worship Time teachers -[728.26 --> 730.42] And so they are asking for people -[730.42 --> 733.62] Who might be willing to lead and teach -[733.62 --> 734.82] Children's Worship Time -[734.82 --> 736.38] During the summer months -[736.38 --> 738.80] Both as teachers and as helpers -[738.80 --> 740.60] And so there is a sign-up sheet -[740.60 --> 742.82] At the Children's Worship Time booth -[742.82 --> 743.42] Back there -[743.42 --> 744.84] Where you can sign in -[744.84 --> 746.62] Or sign up for Sunday -[746.62 --> 748.04] And check into that -[748.04 --> 749.56] If you have questions -[749.56 --> 751.82] Grab Amy or grab Karis -[751.82 --> 753.22] And they will -[753.22 --> 755.84] I see Karis anyway -[755.84 --> 756.42] Wave your hand -[756.42 --> 757.14] Real high, Karis -[757.14 --> 757.72] There you go -[757.72 --> 758.76] Talk to Karis -[758.76 --> 760.38] And then Amy was somewhere -[760.38 --> 761.82] Anyway, you can grab her -[761.82 --> 763.64] And they can fill that in for you -[763.64 --> 766.80] Also, this is the last week -[766.80 --> 768.90] Before the All Leaders Lunch -[768.90 --> 771.56] Which is our volunteer appreciation Saturday -[771.56 --> 774.40] That's coming up next week Saturday -[774.40 --> 776.08] On the 18th -[776.08 --> 778.12] And we're going to have a lunch together -[778.12 --> 779.10] We're going to say thank you -[779.10 --> 780.22] For the work that you do -[780.22 --> 782.14] And we want to provide some training -[782.14 --> 783.70] And so there's some breakout sessions -[783.70 --> 785.48] That you can sign up for there -[785.48 --> 787.50] One of the breakout sessions -[787.50 --> 789.70] Will be led by Liz Tolkamp -[789.70 --> 792.40] Who will talk about ministry to children -[792.40 --> 794.44] Another by Dina Nikolai -[794.44 --> 797.12] Who works with refugees -[797.12 --> 799.82] And she'll talk about ministry to the margins -[799.82 --> 801.10] I will lead one -[801.10 --> 803.84] And then there'll be some small group discussions -[803.84 --> 806.00] Around leading small groups -[806.00 --> 808.18] And worshipping together -[808.18 --> 808.86] And leading worship -[808.86 --> 811.66] And so please check out in the e-bulletin -[811.66 --> 812.58] Or on our website -[812.58 --> 813.84] Go to the events tab -[813.84 --> 814.90] And you will see that there -[814.90 --> 816.08] And you can sign up there -[816.08 --> 817.60] If you have any questions about that -[817.60 --> 819.78] You can grab me after service together -[819.78 --> 823.06] I think those are the announcements -[823.06 --> 824.94] I'm going to invite you -[824.94 --> 825.82] As you're able -[825.82 --> 826.50] And where you are -[826.50 --> 827.14] To stand -[827.14 --> 828.24] And we can be -[828.24 --> 830.24] Ushered into the presence of God -[830.24 --> 831.30] Receive his greeting -[831.30 --> 832.98] And worship him -[832.98 --> 833.76] In song -[833.76 --> 834.40] Word -[834.40 --> 835.18] And table -[835.18 --> 836.10] Together -[836.10 --> 837.82] Receive the greeting -[837.82 --> 839.10] Of our God -[839.10 --> 841.04] Grace -[841.04 --> 842.76] Mercy -[842.76 --> 844.44] And peace to you -[844.44 --> 845.50] From God -[845.50 --> 845.96] Our Father -[845.96 --> 846.40] And the Lord -[846.40 --> 847.04] Jesus Christ -[847.04 --> 847.66] His Son -[847.66 --> 848.86] And our Savior -[848.86 --> 850.26] Through the presence -[850.26 --> 850.86] And power -[850.86 --> 852.20] Of the Holy Spirit -[852.20 --> 854.02] Amen -[854.02 --> 855.58] Let's worship God this morning -[855.58 --> 859.50] Good morning -[859.50 --> 861.68] Our call to worship this morning -[861.68 --> 863.38] Comes from Psalm 63 -[863.38 --> 864.92] Verse 1 to 4 -[864.92 --> 866.48] O God -[866.48 --> 867.48] You are my God -[867.48 --> 868.64] I earnestly -[868.64 --> 870.28] Earnestly I seek you -[870.28 --> 872.28] My soul thirsts for you -[872.28 --> 873.92] My flesh faints for you -[873.92 --> 876.10] As in a dry and weary land -[876.10 --> 877.24] Where there is no water -[877.24 --> 879.36] So I have looked upon you -[879.36 --> 880.18] In the sanctuary -[880.18 --> 881.56] Beholding your power -[881.56 --> 882.28] And glory -[882.28 --> 884.58] Because your steadfast love -[884.58 --> 885.58] Is better than life -[885.58 --> 887.48] My lips will praise you -[887.48 --> 889.28] So I will bless you -[889.28 --> 890.88] As long as I live -[890.88 --> 891.98] In your name -[891.98 --> 894.50] I will lift up my hands -[894.50 --> 896.42] Let's worship God together -[924.50 --> 927.24] I cast my mind -[927.24 --> 929.32] To Calvary -[929.32 --> 932.66] Where Jesus went -[932.66 --> 936.10] And died for me -[936.10 --> 938.92] I see His wounds -[938.92 --> 941.96] His hands, His feet -[941.96 --> 948.50] My Savior on the cursed tree -[948.50 --> 953.50] His body bound -[953.50 --> 957.56] And drenched in tears -[957.56 --> 960.50] They laid Him down -[960.50 --> 963.88] In Joseph's tomb -[963.88 --> 966.50] The entrance sealed -[967.32 --> 969.50] By heavy stones -[970.28 --> 973.60] A sigh of sin -[973.60 --> 975.60] And all alone -[975.60 --> 976.60] And all alone -[976.60 --> 983.54] Oh, praise the name -[983.54 --> 986.78] Of the Lord our God -[986.78 --> 989.96] Oh, praise His name -[989.96 --> 992.60] Forevermore -[992.60 --> 995.60] For endless days -[995.60 --> 997.60] We will sing -[997.60 --> 997.92] We will sing -[997.92 --> 999.72] Your praise -[999.72 --> 1001.42] O Lord -[1001.42 --> 1002.60] O Lord -[1002.60 --> 1002.94] O Lord -[1002.94 --> 1005.60] Our God -[1005.60 --> 1010.60] And on the third -[1010.60 --> 1014.60] At break of dawn -[1014.60 --> 1017.60] The Son of Heaven -[1017.60 --> 1020.60] Rose again -[1020.60 --> 1023.48] Oh, trampled death -[1023.48 --> 1024.60] When text -[1024.60 --> 1026.48] The angels roar -[1026.48 --> 1030.54] The angels roar -[1030.54 --> 1037.14] For Christ the King -[1037.42 --> 1039.06] Oh, praise the name -[1039.06 --> 1044.94] Oh, praise the name of the Lord our God. -[1044.94 --> 1050.94] Oh, praise His name forevermore. -[1051.98 --> 1058.04] For endless days we will sing Your praise. -[1058.42 --> 1063.94] Oh, Lord, oh, Lord our God. -[1063.94 --> 1073.44] He shall return in robes of white. -[1073.44 --> 1080.02] The blazing sun shall pierce the night. -[1080.02 --> 1086.02] And I will rise among the saints. -[1086.02 --> 1093.02] My faith transcends on Jesus' name. -[1093.94 --> 1123.92] Oh, praise the name of the Lord our God. -[1123.92 --> 1128.60] The name of the Lord our God. -[1128.98 --> 1134.42] Oh, praise His name forevermore. -[1134.42 --> 1141.48] For endless days we will sing Your praise. -[1141.48 --> 1146.48] Oh, Lord, oh, Lord our God. -[1146.48 --> 1154.36] Oh, praise the name of the Lord our God. -[1154.36 --> 1159.48] Oh, praise His name forevermore. -[1159.48 --> 1167.36] For endless days we will sing Your praise. -[1167.36 --> 1173.64] O Lord, O Lord our God -[1173.64 --> 1181.04] O Lord, O Lord our God -[1197.36 --> 1227.34] O Lord, O Lord our God -[1227.34 --> 1257.32] O Lord, O Lord our God -[1257.34 --> 1287.32] O Lord, O Lord our God -[1287.32 --> 1291.56] I'm lost in desperation -[1291.56 --> 1295.50] All things work together -[1295.50 --> 1298.40] For my salvation -[1298.40 --> 1306.40] I am not my own -[1306.40 --> 1309.44] But belong -[1309.44 --> 1313.50] Body and soul -[1313.50 --> 1316.92] In my life -[1316.92 --> 1320.32] And in death -[1320.32 --> 1324.24] To you, Lord -[1324.24 --> 1328.28] Christ my Lord -[1346.92 --> 1361.08] Always by your Holy Spirit -[1361.08 --> 1363.32] You assure me -[1363.32 --> 1366.72] Of eternal life -[1366.72 --> 1370.48] And make me willing and ready -[1370.48 --> 1376.22] Even when I can't see my way through -[1376.22 --> 1383.54] From now on to always live for you -[1383.54 --> 1391.62] I am not my own -[1391.62 --> 1395.02] But belong -[1395.02 --> 1398.42] Body and soul -[1398.42 --> 1401.82] Live my life -[1401.82 --> 1405.74] And in death -[1405.74 --> 1409.14] To you, Lord -[1409.14 --> 1410.46] Christ my Lord -[1410.46 --> 1418.46] I am not my own -[1418.46 --> 1422.46] But belong -[1422.46 --> 1426.46] Body and soul -[1426.46 --> 1430.46] In my life -[1430.46 --> 1431.46] In my life -[1431.46 --> 1433.86] And in death -[1433.86 --> 1434.92] And in death -[1434.92 --> 1437.78] To you, Lord -[1437.78 --> 1441.78] Christ my Lord -[1441.78 --> 1443.10] Christ my Lord -[1443.10 --> 1449.10] I am not my own -[1449.10 --> 1451.10] But belong -[1451.10 --> 1453.10] I am not my own -[1453.10 --> 1454.10] But belong -[1454.10 --> 1455.10] Body and soul -[1455.10 --> 1456.42] And in my life -[1456.42 --> 1459.42] In my life -[1459.42 --> 1462.42] And in death -[1462.42 --> 1463.42] And in death -[1463.42 --> 1464.74] To you, Lord -[1464.74 --> 1466.82] To you, Lord -[1466.82 --> 1470.74] Christ my Lord -[1470.74 --> 1484.18] On the sure confidence -[1484.18 --> 1486.60] That we are not our own -[1486.60 --> 1488.42] But we belong -[1488.42 --> 1489.90] Body and soul -[1489.90 --> 1490.68] To Jesus -[1490.68 --> 1492.80] We come to him -[1492.80 --> 1495.50] In a time of personal silent prayer -[1495.50 --> 1497.88] Confessing our needs -[1497.88 --> 1499.32] And our struggles -[1499.32 --> 1529.30] And our struggles -[1529.32 --> 1551.42] Having confessed -[1551.42 --> 1553.64] We now profess -[1553.64 --> 1555.58] I believe -[1555.58 --> 1557.90] Help my unbelief -[1557.90 --> 1560.20] Let us join together -[1560.20 --> 1560.68] By singing -[1560.68 --> 1561.28] I believe -[1561.28 --> 1562.32] A song based -[1562.32 --> 1563.72] On the Apostles' Creed -[1563.72 --> 1565.72] A summary of faith -[1565.72 --> 1566.86] Going all the way back -[1566.86 --> 1567.90] To the early church -[1567.90 --> 1569.62] And professed by Christians -[1569.62 --> 1571.04] Throughout history -[1571.04 --> 1575.14] Again, he Tarot -[1575.14 --> 1576.08] in the past -[1576.08 --> 1576.44] Chanel -[1576.44 --> 1577.12] He plays -[1577.12 --> 1577.38] By Jesus -[1577.38 --> 1578.20] 들어�rent -[1578.20 --> 1605.20] A Father everlasting, the all-created one, -[1605.20 --> 1608.04] God Almighty. -[1610.48 --> 1617.36] Through your Holy Spirit, conceiving Christ the Son, -[1618.10 --> 1620.08] Jesus our Savior. -[1622.70 --> 1629.00] I believe in God our Father, I believe in Christ the Son, -[1629.00 --> 1635.70] I believe in the Holy Spirit, our God is three in one, -[1635.96 --> 1641.88] I believe in the resurrection, that we will rise again, -[1641.88 --> 1647.84] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[1647.84 --> 1649.84] Amen. -[1649.84 --> 1650.84] Amen. -[1650.84 --> 1652.84] Amen. -[1652.84 --> 1653.84] Amen. -[1653.84 --> 1664.10] Our judge and our defender -[1664.10 --> 1667.22] Suffered and crucified -[1667.22 --> 1672.22] Forgiveness is in you -[1672.22 --> 1677.10] Descended into darkness -[1677.10 --> 1680.96] You rose in glorious light -[1680.96 --> 1684.72] Forever, sin and life -[1684.72 --> 1689.74] I believe in God the Father -[1689.74 --> 1693.06] I believe in Christ the Son -[1693.06 --> 1696.28] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[1696.28 --> 1699.80] Our God is three in one -[1699.80 --> 1702.66] I believe in the resurrection -[1702.66 --> 1706.12] That we will rise again -[1706.12 --> 1712.04] And I believe in the name of Jesus -[1712.04 --> 1719.72] I believe in you -[1719.72 --> 1725.90] I believe you rose again -[1725.90 --> 1735.68] I believe that Jesus Christ is Lord -[1735.68 --> 1744.54] I believe in you -[1744.54 --> 1749.68] I believe you rose again -[1749.68 --> 1755.60] I believe in you -[1755.60 --> 1760.46] I believe that Jesus Christ is Lord -[1760.46 --> 1768.46] I believe in life eternal -[1768.46 --> 1772.64] I believe in the virgin birth -[1772.64 --> 1775.74] I believe in the saints communion -[1775.74 --> 1779.52] And in your holy church -[1779.52 --> 1782.06] I believe in the resurrection -[1782.06 --> 1785.44] When Jesus comes again -[1785.44 --> 1791.36] For I believe in the name of Jesus -[1791.36 --> 1796.14] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[1796.14 --> 1801.14] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[1801.14 --> 1804.84] Our God is three in one -[1804.84 --> 1807.64] I believe in the resurrection -[1807.64 --> 1810.96] That we will rise again -[1810.96 --> 1817.02] For I believe in the name of Jesus -[1817.02 --> 1823.80] For I believe in the name of Jesus -[1823.80 --> 1831.52] For I believe in the name of Jesus -[1831.52 --> 1861.50] For I believe in the Holy Spirit -[1861.50 --> 1874.04] Today's offering is for our church budget -[1874.04 --> 1875.16] And ministries -[1875.16 --> 1878.48] Special offering is for night shift -[1878.48 --> 1881.10] They are a registered non-profit -[1881.10 --> 1884.02] And they provide mobile outreach -[1884.02 --> 1886.50] Care in Surrey and Langley -[1886.50 --> 1888.78] They also have a volunteer -[1888.78 --> 1890.44] Volunteer counselors -[1890.44 --> 1891.44] Physicians -[1891.44 --> 1892.30] And nurses -[1892.30 --> 1894.08] Providing services as well -[1894.08 --> 1897.16] If you're interested in being a part -[1897.16 --> 1899.30] Of a Christian faith-based -[1899.30 --> 1900.66] Team of volunteers -[1900.66 --> 1902.06] Night shift -[1902.06 --> 1903.64] Has many different positions -[1903.64 --> 1905.22] And flexible times -[1905.22 --> 1907.08] Their mission -[1907.08 --> 1908.96] Is to love unconditionally -[1908.96 --> 1910.76] And to help each other -[1910.76 --> 1911.46] Find hope -[1911.46 --> 1912.64] And purpose -[1912.64 --> 1917.78] Philippians 3.13-14 -[1917.78 --> 1918.64] Forgetting -[1918.64 --> 1919.68] Forgetting -[1919.68 --> 1920.64] Forgetting what is behind -[1920.64 --> 1922.48] And straining toward -[1922.48 --> 1923.62] What is ahead -[1923.62 --> 1925.66] I press on -[1925.66 --> 1926.66] Toward the goal -[1926.66 --> 1928.22] To win the prize -[1928.22 --> 1929.98] For which God has called me -[1929.98 --> 1930.78] Heavenward -[1930.78 --> 1932.44] In Christ Jesus -[1932.44 --> 1935.56] Listen to the Lord -[1935.56 --> 1936.62] And he will guide -[1936.62 --> 1937.56] Your offerings -[1937.56 --> 1938.30] In Christ Jesus -[1938.30 --> 1939.20] A attended -[1939.20 --> 1941.30] teaching -[1941.30 --> 1942.46] Through what gesture -[1942.46 --> 1943.30] And prayer -[1943.30 --> 1943.78] First -[1943.78 --> 1943.98] Amen -[1943.98 --> 1944.00] In ENGISSE -[1944.00 --> 1966.46] ś -[1966.46 --> 1975.90] Now I long to breathe the air of heaven -[1975.90 --> 1982.80] Where pain is gone and mercy fills the streets -[1982.80 --> 1988.64] To look upon the one who pled to save -[1988.64 --> 1994.58] And walk with him for all eternity -[1994.58 --> 2005.32] There will be a day when all will bow for him -[2005.32 --> 2012.08] There will be a day when death will be no more -[2012.08 --> 2019.92] Standing face to face with him who died and rose again -[2019.92 --> 2025.56] Holy, holy is the Lord -[2025.56 --> 2034.76] In every prayer we pray in desperation -[2034.76 --> 2041.66] The songs of faith we send through doubt and fear -[2041.66 --> 2048.70] In the end we'll see that it was worth it -[2048.70 --> 2054.40] When he returns to my way until -[2054.40 --> 2064.54] There will be a day when all will bow for him -[2064.54 --> 2071.38] There will be a day when death will be no more -[2071.38 --> 2079.14] Standing face to face with him who died and rose again -[2079.14 --> 2085.62] Holy, holy is the Lord -[2085.62 --> 2094.02] And on that day we'll join the resurrection -[2094.02 --> 2101.20] And stand beside the heroes of the faith -[2101.20 --> 2107.94] With one voice, a thousand generations -[2107.94 --> 2109.94] With one voice, a thousand generations -[2109.94 --> 2111.94] With one voice, a thousand generations -[2111.94 --> 2113.94] With one voice, a thousand generations -[2113.94 --> 2114.94] And worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[2114.94 --> 2120.94] And on that day we'll join the resurrection -[2120.94 --> 2127.94] And stand beside the heroes of the faith -[2127.94 --> 2130.68] With one voice, a thousand generations -[2130.68 --> 2140.68] Sing worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[2140.68 --> 2146.68] Sing worthy is the Lamb who shall reign -[2146.68 --> 2148.68] Sing worthy is the Lamb who shall reign -[2148.68 --> 2153.42] Sing worthy is the Lamb who shall reign -[2153.42 --> 2154.50] Sing worthy is the Lamb -[2154.50 --> 2156.42] So there will be a day when all will be in the Lamb -[2156.42 --> 2159.42] With angels and the saints -[2159.42 --> 2163.42] We raise the mighty roar -[2163.42 --> 2171.16] Glory to our God who gave us life beyond the grave -[2171.16 --> 2176.42] Holy, holy is the Lord -[2176.42 --> 2179.16] Holy, holy is the Lord -[2179.16 --> 2180.16] So let it be today -[2180.16 --> 2183.16] We shout the hymn of heaven -[2183.16 --> 2186.16] With angels and the saints -[2186.16 --> 2189.16] We raise the mighty roar -[2189.16 --> 2192.16] Glory to our God -[2192.16 --> 2197.96] Who gave us life beyond the grave -[2197.96 --> 2204.28] Holy, holy is the Lord -[2204.28 --> 2210.02] Holy, holy is the Lord -[2210.02 --> 2217.02] Holy, holy is the Lord -[2217.02 --> 2219.02] Holy, holy is the Lord -[2219.02 --> 2223.76] Holy, holy is the Lord -[2223.76 --> 2224.76] Holy, holy is the Lord -[2224.76 --> 2226.76] Holy, holy is the Lord -[2226.76 --> 2230.28] I'm going to take a moment -[2230.28 --> 2237.64] And welcome a new member -[2237.64 --> 2240.12] Into our church fellowship -[2240.12 --> 2243.74] Yep, Walschlager has been worshipping with us -[2243.74 --> 2248.90] For 10, 12, 10 years or so -[2248.90 --> 2254.50] And yet has not taken the official step of membership -[2254.50 --> 2255.64] And so I want to be really clear -[2255.64 --> 2258.08] Yap has been one of us for a long time -[2258.08 --> 2260.48] He's been of us for a while -[2260.48 --> 2262.78] He belongs to our church family -[2262.78 --> 2265.92] But today we are making that official -[2265.92 --> 2268.68] Now in about three minutes -[2268.68 --> 2270.88] You'll hear why we're making that official today -[2270.88 --> 2273.02] As Yap was nominated to be a deacon -[2273.02 --> 2277.76] No, that's not why -[2277.76 --> 2281.42] That's just what moved us to accelerate the process a little bit -[2281.42 --> 2284.20] And so Yap, I want to invite you up to the front -[2284.20 --> 2287.50] We're going to officially welcome you -[2287.50 --> 2288.72] With just a couple questions -[2288.72 --> 2290.14] In which you can respond -[2290.14 --> 2293.20] Giving a chance to reaffirm your faith -[2293.20 --> 2294.00] Come right up here -[2294.00 --> 2294.82] Here, we'll even -[2294.82 --> 2298.04] So the people at home can see -[2298.04 --> 2299.18] Use the microphone -[2299.18 --> 2303.10] And so as we welcome you officially -[2303.10 --> 2305.90] As a member of this church family -[2305.90 --> 2308.92] We ask that you would reaffirm your faith -[2308.92 --> 2311.52] That you have confessed already -[2311.52 --> 2313.66] And your commitment to God's mission -[2313.66 --> 2315.76] In and through Langley Emmanuel -[2315.76 --> 2317.82] To our city and the region -[2317.82 --> 2318.90] And to the world beyond -[2318.90 --> 2320.76] As we serve Jesus Christ -[2320.76 --> 2321.60] And to do that -[2321.60 --> 2323.62] I'm going to ask you three questions -[2323.62 --> 2325.40] At the end, I'll ask for your answer -[2325.40 --> 2326.98] Three questions -[2326.98 --> 2329.64] Do you believe in the Lord Jesus -[2329.64 --> 2331.50] As your Savior and Lord -[2331.50 --> 2333.02] And that in Him only -[2333.02 --> 2336.22] Is hope and freedom from sin found -[2336.22 --> 2338.56] And do you believe that the Bible -[2338.56 --> 2339.78] Is the Word of God -[2339.78 --> 2341.46] Revealing His plan for redemption -[2341.46 --> 2342.62] In Jesus Christ -[2342.62 --> 2344.44] And that the preaching and teaching -[2344.44 --> 2345.48] Of Langley Emmanuel -[2345.48 --> 2347.10] Reflect this truth -[2347.10 --> 2349.04] And third -[2349.04 --> 2351.20] Do you promise with the help of the Holy Spirit -[2351.20 --> 2352.50] To do all that you can -[2352.50 --> 2354.74] To strengthen your relationship to Jesus -[2354.74 --> 2356.90] By being part of this church -[2356.90 --> 2359.48] Recognizing its authority and oversight -[2359.48 --> 2362.52] And joining with us on mission for Jesus -[2362.52 --> 2363.68] In this community -[2363.68 --> 2364.70] This city -[2364.70 --> 2365.92] And to the world -[2365.92 --> 2366.90] Yap -[2366.90 --> 2368.44] What is your answer? -[2368.86 --> 2369.04] Yes -[2369.04 --> 2370.28] Right here -[2370.28 --> 2371.06] So everyone can hear -[2371.06 --> 2372.04] Yes I do -[2372.04 --> 2373.34] Yes he does -[2373.34 --> 2373.70] Amen -[2373.70 --> 2375.20] Welcome officially -[2375.20 --> 2377.84] To church family -[2377.84 --> 2378.66] Bless God -[2378.66 --> 2379.52] Thank you very much -[2379.52 --> 2385.18] I do want to invite you -[2385.18 --> 2387.48] If you've been visiting regularly with us -[2387.48 --> 2389.02] Or checking us out online -[2389.02 --> 2390.18] If you have questions -[2390.18 --> 2391.50] About what it means to belong -[2391.50 --> 2392.54] To the covenant family -[2392.54 --> 2393.88] We want to answer those for you -[2393.88 --> 2394.88] And so you can grab me -[2394.88 --> 2395.56] After the service -[2395.56 --> 2396.26] Or like I said -[2396.26 --> 2397.32] Use that connect form -[2397.32 --> 2398.88] And ask that question -[2398.88 --> 2399.68] And we would love to -[2399.68 --> 2400.96] Have that conversation -[2400.96 --> 2402.06] I'm going to invite -[2402.06 --> 2403.86] Whoever is doing -[2403.86 --> 2405.06] The kids blessing next -[2405.06 --> 2410.12] No one else is coming -[2410.12 --> 2411.40] So there you go -[2411.40 --> 2412.96] You have two jobs -[2412.96 --> 2413.96] Or you want the kids first -[2413.96 --> 2414.58] Or you're going to do -[2414.58 --> 2415.18] Which one are you? -[2415.18 --> 2415.76] Kids first -[2415.76 --> 2416.68] Kids first -[2416.68 --> 2417.10] Oh man -[2417.10 --> 2418.06] Chaos -[2418.06 --> 2418.58] Welcome -[2418.58 --> 2421.20] The announcements first -[2421.20 --> 2421.50] So -[2421.50 --> 2423.18] But kids you can come up -[2423.18 --> 2424.42] And have a listen -[2424.42 --> 2425.48] While I do the announcements -[2425.48 --> 2425.98] If you want -[2425.98 --> 2431.00] This is kind of sometimes -[2431.00 --> 2431.58] What happens -[2431.58 --> 2432.76] I was not supposed to be -[2432.76 --> 2433.64] On schedule to do -[2433.64 --> 2434.32] Children's worship -[2434.32 --> 2435.22] But I looked around -[2435.22 --> 2436.16] And none of my partners -[2436.16 --> 2437.04] Are here this morning -[2437.04 --> 2438.74] So I'm going to have to -[2438.74 --> 2440.02] Figure something out -[2440.02 --> 2443.22] Here we go -[2443.22 --> 2447.84] We got a new piano player -[2447.84 --> 2448.68] In the church -[2448.68 --> 2449.92] Alright -[2449.92 --> 2451.08] I got a couple announcements -[2451.08 --> 2451.74] For you all -[2451.74 --> 2452.80] From council -[2452.80 --> 2453.84] That I'd like to -[2453.84 --> 2458.82] Share with you this morning -[2458.82 --> 2463.62] First of all -[2463.62 --> 2465.10] Nobody's looking at me -[2465.10 --> 2465.62] Right now -[2465.62 --> 2474.26] In two weeks -[2474.26 --> 2474.56] We're going to have -[2474.56 --> 2475.48] A congregational meeting -[2475.48 --> 2476.62] On June 26th -[2476.62 --> 2477.46] We're just going to do it -[2477.46 --> 2478.98] After the morning service -[2478.98 --> 2482.00] And we have a couple of -[2482.00 --> 2483.84] Items we need to take care of -[2483.84 --> 2484.50] In that meeting -[2484.50 --> 2486.02] We got to review the financials -[2486.02 --> 2486.50] With everybody -[2486.50 --> 2487.66] From 2021 -[2487.66 --> 2488.82] So we're going to do that then -[2488.82 --> 2490.58] As well -[2490.58 --> 2491.54] We are going to affirm -[2491.54 --> 2492.66] The nomination slate -[2492.66 --> 2493.38] For the new -[2493.38 --> 2494.98] Office bearers -[2494.98 --> 2495.50] Of the church -[2495.50 --> 2496.02] And just -[2496.02 --> 2497.58] All this information -[2497.58 --> 2498.32] Is also always -[2498.32 --> 2499.22] In your e-bulletin -[2499.22 --> 2499.72] But -[2499.72 --> 2501.48] I will review with you -[2501.48 --> 2502.28] For elder -[2502.28 --> 2504.22] To be affirmed -[2504.22 --> 2505.08] As Seth Baker -[2505.08 --> 2506.34] Dick Klein-Geltig -[2506.34 --> 2507.18] And John Skipper -[2507.18 --> 2508.40] And for deacon -[2508.40 --> 2509.66] We have Brenda Elkema -[2509.66 --> 2510.62] Jeremy Grimm -[2510.62 --> 2512.06] Rich Spohr -[2512.06 --> 2512.38] And -[2512.38 --> 2513.08] Yop -[2513.08 --> 2514.32] Wohlschlager -[2514.32 --> 2516.52] Did I get it? -[2517.24 --> 2517.54] Nice -[2517.54 --> 2518.74] Okay -[2518.74 --> 2520.58] So that's on June 26th -[2520.58 --> 2522.16] And I just want to make a note -[2522.16 --> 2522.70] As well -[2522.70 --> 2523.74] For next Sunday -[2523.74 --> 2524.80] We will be having -[2524.80 --> 2525.68] Professional Faith -[2525.68 --> 2526.14] Three -[2526.14 --> 2528.06] People in our congregation -[2528.06 --> 2528.44] Are going to do -[2528.44 --> 2529.14] Professional Faith -[2529.14 --> 2530.24] That's Kaylee Spohr -[2530.24 --> 2531.44] Ruth Baker -[2531.44 --> 2532.74] And James Porter -[2532.74 --> 2534.36] So that's what's happening -[2534.36 --> 2534.96] Next week -[2534.96 --> 2535.96] Thank you -[2535.96 --> 2538.92] Alright -[2538.92 --> 2540.08] Switch over here -[2540.08 --> 2542.30] How's everybody doing? -[2543.20 --> 2544.34] So as you guys heard -[2544.34 --> 2546.24] I just found out -[2546.24 --> 2546.98] Like a minute ago -[2546.98 --> 2547.86] What the story's about -[2547.86 --> 2548.06] Today -[2548.06 --> 2548.74] It's about Jonah -[2548.74 --> 2549.26] Do you guys know -[2549.26 --> 2550.20] About the story about Jonah? -[2550.56 --> 2551.10] Heard that one? -[2551.24 --> 2551.50] Okay -[2551.50 --> 2553.32] So we're going to -[2553.32 --> 2554.34] Talk about that in the back -[2554.34 --> 2555.00] But what I thought -[2555.00 --> 2555.86] We would do this morning -[2555.86 --> 2556.56] While we're sitting here -[2556.56 --> 2557.34] Why don't we spend -[2557.34 --> 2557.90] A couple minutes -[2557.90 --> 2559.26] Does anybody have anything -[2559.26 --> 2560.42] That they are thankful -[2560.42 --> 2561.34] For this morning -[2561.34 --> 2562.18] That you could share -[2562.18 --> 2562.72] With everybody -[2562.72 --> 2563.34] Zoe -[2563.34 --> 2564.38] What are you thankful for? -[2565.76 --> 2566.42] You're thankful -[2566.42 --> 2567.44] That you live in a house -[2567.44 --> 2568.40] Anybody else? -[2568.46 --> 2569.24] What are you thankful for? -[2571.80 --> 2573.68] She has some amazing fish -[2573.68 --> 2574.48] At home I think -[2574.48 --> 2574.86] I hear -[2574.86 --> 2576.14] Anybody else? -[2576.22 --> 2576.72] Something else -[2576.72 --> 2577.48] You're thankful for -[2577.48 --> 2578.24] That you can share -[2578.24 --> 2579.30] With me -[2579.30 --> 2580.56] Anybody? -[2582.70 --> 2583.12] Malachi -[2583.12 --> 2583.66] How about you? -[2588.26 --> 2588.98] How about you? -[2589.60 --> 2590.44] I know what you like -[2590.44 --> 2591.30] Are you thankful -[2591.30 --> 2592.00] For ball hockey? -[2592.72 --> 2593.02] Yeah -[2593.02 --> 2593.06] Yeah -[2593.06 --> 2596.68] It's done on the 18th -[2596.68 --> 2596.92] Alright -[2596.92 --> 2598.12] Anybody else got -[2598.12 --> 2598.86] Anything else -[2598.86 --> 2599.50] They want to share -[2599.50 --> 2600.44] With me -[2600.44 --> 2601.62] And everybody else -[2601.62 --> 2602.16] In the church -[2602.16 --> 2603.20] But you're thankful for -[2603.20 --> 2604.40] How about Nora -[2604.40 --> 2604.96] You've always got -[2604.96 --> 2605.56] Something to say -[2605.56 --> 2607.84] Yeah -[2607.84 --> 2617.72] Oh I like that -[2617.72 --> 2618.86] School's almost done -[2618.86 --> 2619.54] Summer breaks -[2619.54 --> 2620.20] Starting -[2620.20 --> 2620.74] How about you -[2620.74 --> 2621.46] Tomorrow -[2621.46 --> 2624.64] Thankful for your family -[2624.64 --> 2625.40] That's awesome -[2625.40 --> 2627.86] So why don't we stand up -[2627.86 --> 2629.28] And we're going to do the blessing -[2629.28 --> 2629.80] Right now -[2629.80 --> 2630.54] And we'll head off to -[2630.54 --> 2631.58] Children's worship time -[2631.58 --> 2637.84] Ready? -[2637.84 --> 2638.70] The -[2638.70 --> 2638.76] The -[2638.76 --> 2643.46] The -[2667.84 --> 2680.02] Good morning -[2680.02 --> 2680.88] My name is Dave -[2680.88 --> 2682.56] I am one of the elders -[2682.56 --> 2683.22] In this church -[2683.22 --> 2684.28] So we're all here -[2684.28 --> 2684.82] To serve you -[2684.82 --> 2686.46] It is my turn to lead us -[2686.46 --> 2688.06] In our church family prayer -[2688.06 --> 2689.92] Let us pray -[2689.92 --> 2693.20] Father -[2693.20 --> 2694.36] It is very good for us -[2694.36 --> 2694.84] To be here -[2694.84 --> 2695.44] On -[2695.44 --> 2696.88] Sunday -[2696.88 --> 2697.96] On the Lord's Day -[2697.96 --> 2699.48] For us to celebrate -[2699.48 --> 2699.98] Your name -[2699.98 --> 2701.46] We gather with the church -[2701.46 --> 2701.94] Universal -[2701.94 --> 2702.94] With the church everywhere -[2702.94 --> 2704.44] With Christians around the world -[2704.44 --> 2705.94] On this day -[2705.94 --> 2707.32] To celebrate -[2707.32 --> 2708.60] The fact that we are all -[2708.60 --> 2709.02] Christians -[2709.02 --> 2711.08] And share that one name -[2711.08 --> 2712.64] Father -[2712.64 --> 2713.98] We -[2713.98 --> 2715.46] Always spend time -[2715.46 --> 2716.78] In our church service -[2716.78 --> 2717.10] To -[2717.10 --> 2719.40] Spend time for confession -[2719.40 --> 2721.52] We think about the things -[2721.52 --> 2722.40] That we have done -[2722.40 --> 2723.62] We think about the -[2723.62 --> 2724.00] The -[2724.00 --> 2725.52] Things that we have said -[2725.52 --> 2726.46] That have not been -[2726.46 --> 2727.22] Honoring to you -[2727.22 --> 2728.76] Or serving to those around us -[2728.76 --> 2730.30] We think about those things -[2730.30 --> 2731.28] That we have not done -[2731.28 --> 2732.20] And those things -[2732.20 --> 2733.16] That we have not said -[2733.16 --> 2734.18] And we should have -[2734.18 --> 2736.36] Ways to build each other up -[2736.36 --> 2738.36] And to serve the people around us -[2738.36 --> 2739.48] Father -[2739.48 --> 2739.78] We -[2739.78 --> 2741.56] Confess those failings -[2741.56 --> 2743.66] But we take great assurance -[2743.66 --> 2745.62] That we do not have to bear that burden -[2745.62 --> 2748.12] That we don't need to feel guilt -[2748.12 --> 2749.46] We don't need to feel shame -[2749.46 --> 2751.50] Because Jesus has taken our guilt -[2751.50 --> 2752.22] And our shame -[2752.22 --> 2753.02] On the cross -[2753.02 --> 2754.04] And he bore it for us -[2754.04 --> 2755.52] Father -[2755.52 --> 2756.46] There are many things -[2756.46 --> 2757.38] That we have to be -[2757.38 --> 2758.24] Thankful for -[2758.24 --> 2760.12] We think about this church community -[2760.12 --> 2762.30] That meets so regularly -[2762.30 --> 2763.20] And that loves you -[2763.20 --> 2764.32] And cares about each other -[2764.32 --> 2765.72] We think about the leadership -[2765.72 --> 2766.48] In this church -[2766.48 --> 2767.86] We thank you for Pastor Chris -[2767.86 --> 2768.68] For Pastor Kevin -[2768.68 --> 2770.10] For Pastor Josh -[2770.10 --> 2770.96] And the important -[2770.96 --> 2773.48] Leadership roles -[2773.48 --> 2774.32] That they could have -[2774.32 --> 2775.88] Father we thank you -[2775.88 --> 2777.06] For the school year -[2777.06 --> 2779.14] That is finishing up soon -[2779.14 --> 2780.36] We thank you -[2780.36 --> 2781.58] For an opportunity -[2781.58 --> 2782.40] To learn more -[2782.40 --> 2785.12] About ourselves -[2785.12 --> 2787.12] Our place in the world -[2787.12 --> 2788.46] Our place in society -[2788.46 --> 2791.40] Our place as a Canadian citizen -[2791.40 --> 2794.44] Our understanding of the creation -[2794.44 --> 2795.98] And our relationship with you -[2795.98 --> 2797.78] We think especially -[2797.78 --> 2798.70] Of those who are -[2798.70 --> 2800.46] Who are graduating this week -[2800.46 --> 2802.44] And it's important -[2802.44 --> 2803.08] To celebrate -[2803.08 --> 2805.82] Their 13 years of education -[2805.82 --> 2808.68] We pray that -[2808.68 --> 2810.32] Those who have to make -[2810.32 --> 2810.94] Some decisions -[2810.94 --> 2811.88] After graduation -[2811.88 --> 2813.08] That will have some wisdom -[2813.08 --> 2813.98] And some insight -[2813.98 --> 2815.80] So whether they be -[2815.80 --> 2817.70] Going right into the workforce -[2817.70 --> 2819.20] Or spending time traveling -[2819.20 --> 2820.02] Time traveling -[2820.02 --> 2821.60] Going on a missions trip -[2821.60 --> 2823.76] Going to trade school -[2823.76 --> 2824.96] Or going to a university -[2824.96 --> 2826.52] We pray that -[2826.52 --> 2828.26] Whatever task that they give -[2828.26 --> 2829.26] Would be a chance for them -[2829.26 --> 2830.56] To learn more about themselves -[2830.56 --> 2832.50] Serve people around them -[2832.50 --> 2833.52] And build a relationship -[2833.52 --> 2834.20] With you -[2834.20 --> 2836.62] We do take comfort -[2836.62 --> 2838.32] In some words -[2838.32 --> 2838.84] That you shared -[2838.84 --> 2840.00] Through the prophet Jeremiah -[2840.00 --> 2841.70] That when we are uncertain -[2841.70 --> 2842.42] About the future -[2842.42 --> 2843.80] That we know -[2843.80 --> 2845.04] That you have plans for us -[2845.04 --> 2846.36] Plans to give us hope -[2846.36 --> 2847.30] And a future -[2847.30 --> 2849.00] Father -[2849.00 --> 2851.56] There are also many things -[2851.56 --> 2852.60] That we bring before you -[2852.60 --> 2856.16] We thank you for the life -[2856.16 --> 2857.24] Of Louise Rezabas -[2857.24 --> 2859.08] And as a church congregation -[2859.08 --> 2860.30] We mourn her passing -[2860.30 --> 2862.92] Her illness came suddenly -[2862.92 --> 2864.24] And in some ways -[2864.24 --> 2865.72] It seemed like a very short time -[2865.72 --> 2866.36] And in others -[2866.36 --> 2868.30] It seemed like a very long time -[2868.30 --> 2870.30] Of waiting for what would happen -[2870.30 --> 2873.18] We pray for her family -[2873.18 --> 2874.54] And we pray for Peter -[2874.54 --> 2875.56] For her children -[2875.56 --> 2876.36] Her grandchildren -[2876.36 --> 2878.18] For other family -[2878.18 --> 2879.20] And her many friends -[2879.20 --> 2880.94] We pray that -[2880.94 --> 2882.32] You will be with them all -[2882.32 --> 2883.30] As they go through -[2883.30 --> 2884.26] This period of grief -[2884.26 --> 2884.96] And of mourning -[2884.96 --> 2886.56] That they will feel your strength -[2886.56 --> 2888.02] That they will feel your comfort -[2888.02 --> 2889.62] In the same way -[2889.62 --> 2890.36] We think about -[2890.36 --> 2891.72] Leslie Coole -[2891.72 --> 2892.24] And her family -[2892.24 --> 2893.54] With the passing of her father -[2893.54 --> 2894.20] Bill Potma -[2894.20 --> 2896.48] And with the knowledge -[2896.48 --> 2897.82] That he has been laid to rest -[2897.82 --> 2900.64] We thank you -[2900.64 --> 2901.62] That there is opportunity -[2901.62 --> 2902.68] To celebrate life -[2902.68 --> 2904.84] And to begin the next stage -[2904.84 --> 2905.28] Of grieving -[2905.28 --> 2906.44] And living life -[2906.44 --> 2908.08] Father we thank you -[2908.08 --> 2908.88] That in this church -[2908.88 --> 2909.78] We get to celebrate -[2909.78 --> 2911.26] The profession of faith -[2911.26 --> 2912.88] Of Ruth Baker -[2912.88 --> 2913.56] James Porter -[2913.56 --> 2914.74] And Kaylee Spohr -[2914.74 --> 2915.74] We thank you -[2915.74 --> 2916.96] That those three -[2916.96 --> 2919.50] Have feel the relationship -[2919.50 --> 2920.00] With you -[2920.00 --> 2921.14] They know the love -[2921.14 --> 2921.82] That you have -[2921.82 --> 2922.40] And are willing -[2922.40 --> 2923.56] To make a commitment -[2923.56 --> 2925.76] Of service to you -[2925.76 --> 2926.62] And full membership -[2926.62 --> 2927.46] In this church -[2927.46 --> 2929.32] We think about -[2929.32 --> 2930.38] Jaap Wollschlager -[2930.38 --> 2931.50] A new member -[2931.50 --> 2932.70] And not a new member -[2932.70 --> 2933.32] Of this church -[2933.32 --> 2934.64] We thank you -[2934.64 --> 2936.02] For the important part -[2936.02 --> 2937.02] That he plays -[2937.02 --> 2938.28] In his family -[2938.28 --> 2939.40] And in this church community -[2939.40 --> 2941.08] And we do welcome -[2941.08 --> 2943.46] Him as that new member -[2943.46 --> 2945.54] Father we have -[2945.54 --> 2946.62] More general prayers too -[2946.62 --> 2947.28] We think about -[2947.28 --> 2948.22] Those who are experiencing -[2948.22 --> 2948.72] Pain -[2948.72 --> 2949.44] Loss -[2949.44 --> 2950.68] Or difficulty -[2950.68 --> 2952.58] Whatever that may be -[2952.58 --> 2954.30] Sometimes we know about it -[2954.30 --> 2955.68] Sometimes we do not -[2955.68 --> 2957.10] We pray for your comfort -[2957.10 --> 2958.42] And the fellowship -[2958.42 --> 2959.36] Of your people -[2959.36 --> 2961.18] Father we think about -[2961.18 --> 2962.08] The synod of the -[2962.08 --> 2962.96] Christian Reformed Church -[2962.96 --> 2963.58] That will be -[2963.58 --> 2964.82] Meeting soon -[2964.82 --> 2966.14] There are important -[2966.14 --> 2967.00] Decisions that need -[2967.00 --> 2967.46] To be made -[2967.46 --> 2968.06] On behalf of -[2968.06 --> 2969.14] The entire denomination -[2969.14 --> 2970.80] We pray for wisdom -[2970.80 --> 2972.06] For our representatives -[2972.06 --> 2972.90] And for our leaders -[2972.90 --> 2974.20] And that they'll make -[2974.20 --> 2975.70] Decisions that -[2975.70 --> 2977.32] Accurately reflect -[2977.32 --> 2978.50] Your will for our lives -[2978.50 --> 2979.98] And will bring our church -[2979.98 --> 2980.78] Closer together -[2980.78 --> 2982.38] Father we continue -[2982.38 --> 2983.22] To pray for the world -[2983.22 --> 2983.84] Around us -[2983.84 --> 2984.58] For the ongoing -[2984.58 --> 2985.70] Conflict in Ukraine -[2985.70 --> 2988.54] We pray for all of those -[2988.54 --> 2989.74] Many who have been -[2989.74 --> 2990.66] Displaced by war -[2990.66 --> 2992.88] The significant damage -[2992.88 --> 2993.38] That is done -[2993.38 --> 2994.24] All over the country -[2994.24 --> 2996.52] And just the fear -[2996.52 --> 2997.06] And uncertainty -[2997.06 --> 2997.78] That it brings -[2997.78 --> 2999.28] We pray for the Russians -[2999.28 --> 2999.60] Too -[2999.60 --> 3003.36] That they may -[3003.36 --> 3004.36] Understand -[3004.36 --> 3005.82] The difficulty -[3005.82 --> 3006.48] That this war -[3006.48 --> 3007.00] Is causing -[3007.00 --> 3008.76] And that there may be -[3008.76 --> 3009.40] An opportunity -[3009.40 --> 3010.60] For a peaceful future -[3010.60 --> 3012.12] Father -[3012.12 --> 3013.42] We thank you -[3013.42 --> 3014.10] For this church -[3014.10 --> 3015.88] And we think about -[3015.88 --> 3016.34] The service -[3016.34 --> 3017.16] That is up ahead -[3017.16 --> 3018.40] A time for worship -[3018.40 --> 3019.78] A time to remember -[3019.78 --> 3020.66] Jesus' sacrifice -[3020.66 --> 3021.56] As we commune -[3021.56 --> 3022.36] With the Lord's Supper -[3022.36 --> 3023.48] We pray for -[3023.48 --> 3024.38] Pastor Chris -[3024.38 --> 3025.00] Who is sharing -[3025.00 --> 3026.02] His message with us -[3026.02 --> 3027.40] About holy habits -[3027.40 --> 3029.32] And we pray -[3029.32 --> 3030.64] That what he says -[3030.64 --> 3031.52] Will be a good reflection -[3031.52 --> 3032.80] Of his will for our lives -[3032.80 --> 3034.06] And that we will -[3034.06 --> 3035.86] Build these holy habits -[3035.86 --> 3036.76] Something that -[3036.76 --> 3038.18] Becomes second nature -[3038.18 --> 3038.68] To us -[3038.68 --> 3040.10] And part of our -[3040.10 --> 3042.06] Our daily routines -[3042.06 --> 3043.18] Father -[3043.18 --> 3044.76] We pray for all of us -[3044.76 --> 3045.56] We thank you -[3045.56 --> 3046.22] For this church -[3046.22 --> 3047.44] And we know -[3047.44 --> 3048.22] That you are here -[3048.22 --> 3049.44] Because you have promised -[3049.44 --> 3050.04] To be present -[3050.04 --> 3051.20] Whenever two or three -[3051.20 --> 3052.48] Are gathered in your name -[3052.48 --> 3054.44] Father we pray -[3054.44 --> 3055.32] All these things -[3055.32 --> 3057.14] Not because we deserve it -[3057.14 --> 3058.26] But we ask it -[3058.26 --> 3059.04] In Jesus' name -[3059.04 --> 3059.88] Amen -[3078.22 --> 3087.68] We're going to -[3087.68 --> 3090.88] Continue in our worship -[3090.88 --> 3092.84] By reading together -[3092.84 --> 3094.34] From John 6 -[3094.34 --> 3095.78] Now -[3095.78 --> 3098.02] The order of service -[3098.02 --> 3098.88] And the screen -[3098.88 --> 3099.68] May only have -[3099.68 --> 3101.10] John 6 verse 68 -[3101.10 --> 3102.08] But I'm going to start -[3102.08 --> 3102.56] Reading -[3102.56 --> 3103.94] At verse 60 -[3103.94 --> 3105.88] So if you have -[3105.88 --> 3106.34] A Bible -[3106.34 --> 3107.44] Handy -[3107.44 --> 3107.98] And in front of you -[3107.98 --> 3108.36] I encourage you -[3108.36 --> 3109.04] To open that up -[3109.04 --> 3109.78] We'll start -[3109.78 --> 3110.50] At verse 60 -[3110.50 --> 3131.76] All right -[3131.76 --> 3132.46] John 6 -[3132.46 --> 3133.68] Starting -[3133.68 --> 3133.70] Starting -[3133.70 --> 3134.92] At verse 60 -[3134.92 --> 3138.30] On hearing it -[3138.30 --> 3139.36] That is the teaching -[3139.36 --> 3140.28] That Jesus had been giving -[3140.28 --> 3142.46] Many of the disciples said -[3142.46 --> 3145.06] This is a hard teaching -[3145.06 --> 3146.26] Who can accept it? -[3147.62 --> 3148.10] Aware -[3148.10 --> 3149.08] That his disciples -[3149.08 --> 3150.16] Were grumbling -[3150.16 --> 3150.94] About this -[3150.94 --> 3152.04] Jesus said to them -[3152.04 --> 3153.98] Does this offend you? -[3154.98 --> 3155.94] What if you see -[3155.94 --> 3156.76] The son of man -[3156.76 --> 3157.30] Ascend -[3157.30 --> 3158.76] To where he was before? -[3159.74 --> 3161.36] The spirit gives life -[3161.36 --> 3162.14] The flesh -[3162.14 --> 3163.36] Counts for nothing -[3163.36 --> 3164.26] The words -[3164.26 --> 3165.32] I have spoken to you -[3165.32 --> 3166.06] Are spirit -[3166.06 --> 3168.18] And they are life -[3168.18 --> 3170.72] Yet there are some of you -[3170.72 --> 3171.82] Who do not believe -[3171.82 --> 3173.54] For Jesus -[3173.54 --> 3174.34] Had known -[3174.34 --> 3175.26] From the beginning -[3175.26 --> 3176.00] Which of them -[3176.00 --> 3176.90] Did not believe -[3176.90 --> 3178.46] And who would betray them -[3178.46 --> 3179.26] Betray him -[3179.26 --> 3181.52] He went on to say -[3181.52 --> 3183.64] This is why I told you -[3183.64 --> 3185.14] That no one can come to me -[3185.14 --> 3186.20] Unless the father -[3186.20 --> 3187.08] Enables them -[3187.08 --> 3189.74] From this time -[3189.74 --> 3190.74] Many of his disciples -[3190.74 --> 3191.58] Turned back -[3191.58 --> 3192.50] And no longer -[3192.50 --> 3193.30] Followed him -[3193.30 --> 3195.88] You do not want -[3195.88 --> 3196.54] To leave too -[3196.54 --> 3197.08] Do you? -[3197.46 --> 3198.58] Jesus asked the twelve -[3198.58 --> 3200.96] And Simon Peter -[3200.96 --> 3201.54] Answered him -[3201.54 --> 3202.88] And this is our focus -[3202.88 --> 3204.08] Lord -[3204.08 --> 3205.00] To whom -[3205.00 --> 3205.96] Shall we go? -[3206.96 --> 3207.26] You -[3207.26 --> 3208.02] Have -[3208.02 --> 3208.86] The words -[3208.86 --> 3209.60] Of eternal -[3209.60 --> 3210.56] Life -[3210.56 --> 3212.38] And we believe -[3212.38 --> 3213.24] And know -[3213.24 --> 3214.02] That you -[3214.02 --> 3216.10] Are the holy one -[3216.10 --> 3217.38] Of God -[3217.38 --> 3218.88] This is the word -[3218.88 --> 3219.28] Of the Lord -[3219.28 --> 3225.16] All right -[3225.16 --> 3225.58] I'm going to -[3225.58 --> 3227.44] Take a risk -[3227.44 --> 3228.12] This morning -[3228.12 --> 3229.92] A risk -[3229.92 --> 3230.44] At embarrassing -[3230.44 --> 3230.96] Myself -[3230.96 --> 3231.82] Greatly -[3231.82 --> 3232.88] But how many -[3232.88 --> 3233.48] Of you -[3233.48 --> 3234.26] Remember -[3234.26 --> 3235.10] This song -[3235.10 --> 3235.60] And as soon -[3235.60 --> 3236.16] As you remember -[3236.16 --> 3236.34] It -[3236.34 --> 3236.80] Join me -[3236.80 --> 3237.28] Because you -[3237.28 --> 3237.54] Don't want -[3237.54 --> 3237.90] Me singing -[3237.90 --> 3238.24] Alone -[3238.24 --> 3239.72] Rachel's -[3239.72 --> 3240.12] Nodding -[3240.12 --> 3241.46] Very quickly -[3241.46 --> 3242.32] Saying please -[3242.32 --> 3243.14] Okay -[3243.14 --> 3245.66] Read your -[3245.66 --> 3246.62] Bibles -[3246.62 --> 3247.26] Pray -[3247.26 --> 3248.70] Every day -[3248.70 --> 3249.74] Pray -[3249.74 --> 3250.54] Every -[3250.54 --> 3251.30] Day -[3251.30 --> 3252.18] Pray -[3252.18 --> 3253.02] Every -[3253.02 --> 3253.72] Day -[3253.72 --> 3254.58] Okay we can stop -[3254.58 --> 3255.22] We don't have to go -[3255.22 --> 3257.98] For those of you who are online -[3257.98 --> 3258.60] And listening -[3258.60 --> 3259.94] All you heard was me there -[3259.94 --> 3260.58] Apologies -[3260.58 --> 3262.04] It sounded much better in here -[3262.04 --> 3264.86] Read your Bible -[3264.86 --> 3266.50] And pray every day -[3266.50 --> 3268.32] If you are -[3268.32 --> 3269.64] Of my generation -[3269.64 --> 3270.34] Or older -[3270.34 --> 3272.82] That was on the salty tapes -[3272.82 --> 3273.54] If you're older -[3273.54 --> 3274.76] The salty records -[3274.76 --> 3275.50] Right -[3275.50 --> 3276.58] That grandma or grandma -[3276.58 --> 3277.54] Used to put on -[3277.54 --> 3278.64] When you went to visit them -[3278.64 --> 3279.38] And they got tired -[3279.38 --> 3280.10] Of watching you -[3280.10 --> 3280.54] So they said -[3280.54 --> 3281.46] Let's put some music on -[3281.46 --> 3282.10] So that they could go -[3282.10 --> 3282.94] At least that's what -[3282.94 --> 3283.68] Happened in my house -[3283.68 --> 3284.20] I don't know -[3284.20 --> 3286.62] Read your Bible -[3286.62 --> 3287.90] Pray every day -[3287.90 --> 3288.86] And you'll -[3288.86 --> 3289.86] Grow -[3289.86 --> 3290.76] Grow -[3290.76 --> 3291.68] Grow -[3291.68 --> 3293.36] But why -[3293.36 --> 3297.78] Why will you grow -[3297.78 --> 3299.94] Will you -[3299.94 --> 3300.66] Grow -[3300.66 --> 3303.18] And if it's so true -[3303.18 --> 3304.96] When was the last time -[3304.96 --> 3305.66] You read your Bible -[3305.66 --> 3306.50] Every -[3306.50 --> 3307.50] Every -[3307.50 --> 3307.68] Day -[3307.68 --> 3309.64] Well let me put it this way -[3309.64 --> 3312.34] How many times -[3312.34 --> 3313.94] Has a pastor -[3313.94 --> 3314.72] Whether it's me -[3314.72 --> 3315.54] Or someone else -[3315.54 --> 3316.32] Or an elder -[3316.32 --> 3317.42] Or a Christian mentor -[3317.42 --> 3318.82] In your life -[3318.82 --> 3320.26] Asked you the question -[3320.26 --> 3322.28] How is your Bible -[3322.28 --> 3323.44] Devotion going -[3323.44 --> 3325.76] And then what's your answer -[3325.76 --> 3326.92] Right -[3326.92 --> 3327.68] Without fail -[3327.68 --> 3328.90] Every single time -[3328.90 --> 3330.04] I ask this question -[3330.04 --> 3331.52] I get the same answer -[3331.52 --> 3334.14] It could be better -[3334.14 --> 3337.62] I could -[3337.62 --> 3338.00] I could -[3338.00 --> 3339.18] Probably do more -[3339.18 --> 3341.74] Of course it could be better -[3341.74 --> 3342.90] Right -[3342.90 --> 3343.42] We could all -[3343.42 --> 3343.96] Do better -[3343.96 --> 3344.50] I'm -[3344.50 --> 3346.12] I'm a pastor -[3346.12 --> 3347.30] You -[3347.30 --> 3348.80] Pay me -[3348.80 --> 3350.14] To study the Bible -[3350.14 --> 3351.12] And to discern -[3351.12 --> 3351.78] Its teachings -[3351.78 --> 3352.64] And distill it out -[3352.64 --> 3353.78] And present them to you -[3353.78 --> 3355.94] That's my job -[3355.94 --> 3357.24] And I could do better -[3357.24 --> 3359.06] So of course -[3359.06 --> 3359.46] We could -[3359.46 --> 3360.52] Do better -[3360.52 --> 3362.60] You could spend -[3362.60 --> 3363.18] A month -[3363.18 --> 3364.30] In devotional -[3364.30 --> 3365.78] Spiritual retreat -[3365.78 --> 3367.20] Reading only the Bible -[3367.20 --> 3368.54] For every waking -[3368.54 --> 3369.14] Minute -[3369.14 --> 3369.86] And you could still -[3369.86 --> 3370.66] Answer the question -[3370.66 --> 3372.10] How is your Bible -[3372.10 --> 3372.64] Reading going -[3372.64 --> 3373.10] Saying -[3373.10 --> 3374.24] Ah it could be better -[3374.24 --> 3376.46] Now really -[3376.46 --> 3378.26] What I think -[3378.26 --> 3380.26] When I hear that -[3380.26 --> 3380.52] And I -[3380.52 --> 3381.96] I'm willing for you -[3381.96 --> 3382.94] To challenge me on this -[3382.94 --> 3383.86] And we can fight -[3383.86 --> 3384.80] In the parking lot after -[3384.80 --> 3386.70] When I think -[3386.70 --> 3387.58] When people give -[3387.58 --> 3388.88] That kind of answer -[3388.88 --> 3390.20] It's a sort of -[3390.20 --> 3391.24] Non-answer -[3391.24 --> 3393.40] To deflect -[3393.40 --> 3394.50] Or to minimize -[3394.50 --> 3396.02] What we know -[3396.02 --> 3396.64] The importance -[3396.64 --> 3397.66] Of the question -[3397.66 --> 3398.10] To be -[3398.10 --> 3399.38] Right -[3399.38 --> 3400.44] I know it's important -[3400.44 --> 3401.56] I should probably -[3401.56 --> 3402.60] Do more -[3402.60 --> 3404.56] But what we're hiding -[3404.56 --> 3407.44] For most of us -[3407.44 --> 3408.92] Is that we don't -[3408.92 --> 3409.66] Really do much -[3409.66 --> 3411.68] Or any -[3411.68 --> 3414.06] At least -[3414.06 --> 3414.68] Not anything -[3414.68 --> 3415.26] Personally -[3415.26 --> 3416.50] Significant -[3416.50 --> 3417.10] Now they've done -[3417.10 --> 3418.34] All sorts of -[3418.34 --> 3420.02] Studies on this -[3420.02 --> 3421.46] And there are -[3421.46 --> 3422.24] Statistics that -[3422.24 --> 3423.58] That bear that out -[3423.58 --> 3425.28] But for most of you -[3425.28 --> 3426.56] Sitting here -[3426.56 --> 3428.06] On Sunday morning -[3428.06 --> 3428.52] Right -[3428.52 --> 3429.42] And most of you -[3429.42 --> 3430.36] Are the kind of people -[3430.36 --> 3430.98] Right -[3430.98 --> 3431.86] Who are committed enough -[3431.86 --> 3432.54] To your relationship -[3432.54 --> 3432.84] To God -[3432.84 --> 3433.56] That you come to church -[3433.56 --> 3434.08] On Sunday -[3434.08 --> 3435.42] Perhaps more than -[3435.42 --> 3436.94] Once or twice a month -[3436.94 --> 3438.60] But for most of us -[3438.60 --> 3439.60] Even sitting here -[3439.60 --> 3441.96] The only time of the week -[3441.96 --> 3443.12] That you open up your Bible -[3443.12 --> 3444.40] Or scroll through your Bible -[3444.40 --> 3445.14] If that's how you -[3445.14 --> 3445.90] Read it -[3445.90 --> 3446.88] Is on Sunday -[3446.88 --> 3448.86] When I say -[3448.86 --> 3449.78] Turn to -[3449.78 --> 3451.40] Whatever -[3451.40 --> 3452.98] Page or place -[3452.98 --> 3454.42] We happen to be reading -[3454.42 --> 3460.06] That's one of the reasons -[3460.06 --> 3460.54] Why -[3460.54 --> 3462.76] I say that -[3462.76 --> 3463.46] Right -[3463.46 --> 3464.28] To turn to -[3464.28 --> 3464.74] One of the reasons -[3464.74 --> 3465.50] Why I think it's important -[3465.50 --> 3467.14] For us to have a Bible -[3467.14 --> 3467.78] In hand -[3467.78 --> 3469.08] Or to look at -[3469.08 --> 3470.36] As we go through -[3470.36 --> 3470.98] So that we are -[3470.98 --> 3472.26] Learning the habit -[3472.26 --> 3474.20] Of opening up a Bible -[3474.20 --> 3475.80] Right -[3475.80 --> 3476.26] One of the reasons -[3476.26 --> 3476.88] Why I recommend -[3476.88 --> 3477.42] That you bring -[3477.42 --> 3478.28] Your own Bible -[3478.28 --> 3478.96] Is so that you can -[3478.96 --> 3479.60] Highlight it -[3479.60 --> 3481.44] And understand it -[3481.44 --> 3482.82] And dig into it -[3482.82 --> 3484.66] And make connections -[3484.66 --> 3486.60] And draw all over it -[3486.60 --> 3486.78] Right -[3486.78 --> 3488.28] The best Bible -[3488.28 --> 3489.16] Is the one -[3489.16 --> 3490.10] That's falling apart -[3490.10 --> 3490.78] From use -[3490.78 --> 3493.04] Now to illustrate that -[3493.04 --> 3494.86] I've actually pulled out -[3494.86 --> 3496.32] My old Bible -[3496.32 --> 3498.58] This is the one -[3498.58 --> 3499.40] I've used -[3499.40 --> 3500.34] For the last 10 years -[3500.34 --> 3501.28] When I came here -[3501.28 --> 3502.16] I bought a new one -[3502.16 --> 3503.40] And started creating -[3503.40 --> 3503.94] A new one -[3503.94 --> 3505.22] But this one -[3505.22 --> 3506.02] Is the one -[3506.02 --> 3506.68] That I have used -[3506.68 --> 3507.34] Devotionally -[3507.34 --> 3508.00] And in preaching -[3508.00 --> 3508.56] For years -[3508.56 --> 3509.70] And it's full of -[3509.70 --> 3510.90] Folded pages -[3510.90 --> 3512.10] And taped back together -[3512.10 --> 3513.22] Pages and creases -[3513.22 --> 3514.50] And underlines -[3514.50 --> 3515.00] And lines -[3515.00 --> 3515.72] Honestly you look -[3515.72 --> 3516.80] At this page in particular -[3516.80 --> 3517.50] And like you -[3517.50 --> 3518.84] You can't make sense -[3518.84 --> 3519.24] Of that -[3519.24 --> 3520.70] Yet I can -[3520.70 --> 3522.04] Right -[3522.04 --> 3523.56] And we dig through it -[3523.56 --> 3524.16] There's stickers -[3524.16 --> 3525.24] And underlines -[3525.24 --> 3525.96] And things -[3525.96 --> 3528.18] But -[3528.18 --> 3529.52] A Bible that looks -[3529.52 --> 3530.20] Like this -[3530.20 --> 3530.60] Is it -[3530.60 --> 3531.42] Hopefully -[3531.42 --> 3532.54] A testimony -[3532.54 --> 3533.98] Of its use -[3533.98 --> 3535.28] In my life -[3535.28 --> 3536.84] Now -[3536.84 --> 3539.72] As we start here -[3539.72 --> 3540.36] This morning -[3540.36 --> 3541.16] And as we talk about -[3541.16 --> 3541.86] Holy habits -[3541.86 --> 3543.00] And creating those habits -[3543.00 --> 3544.32] I want to be really clear -[3544.32 --> 3545.30] I'm not -[3545.30 --> 3546.68] Introducing this -[3546.68 --> 3547.68] Or having this conversation -[3547.68 --> 3548.22] With you -[3548.22 --> 3548.94] Because I want to -[3548.94 --> 3549.76] Guilt you -[3549.76 --> 3550.82] Into something -[3550.82 --> 3551.62] Right -[3551.62 --> 3552.10] I'm not trying to -[3552.10 --> 3552.84] Shame you -[3552.84 --> 3553.52] Into reading -[3553.52 --> 3554.08] Your Bible -[3554.08 --> 3554.58] More -[3554.58 --> 3555.14] Right -[3555.14 --> 3555.68] That's never -[3555.68 --> 3556.44] My intent -[3556.44 --> 3556.86] And so -[3556.86 --> 3558.32] If you are -[3558.32 --> 3559.12] Hearing that -[3559.12 --> 3559.70] From me -[3559.70 --> 3560.18] Let me -[3560.18 --> 3560.44] One -[3560.44 --> 3561.30] Apologize -[3561.30 --> 3561.84] For that -[3561.84 --> 3562.38] Unspoken -[3562.38 --> 3562.94] Communication -[3562.94 --> 3563.38] But let me -[3563.38 --> 3563.58] Two -[3563.58 --> 3564.12] Push back -[3564.12 --> 3564.38] And say -[3564.38 --> 3564.60] If you're -[3564.60 --> 3565.08] Getting offended -[3565.08 --> 3565.56] By what I'm -[3565.56 --> 3565.82] Saying -[3565.82 --> 3566.56] It's striking -[3566.56 --> 3567.06] A chord -[3567.06 --> 3567.84] That's not -[3567.84 --> 3568.10] Me -[3568.10 --> 3568.60] That's your -[3568.60 --> 3568.94] Heart -[3568.94 --> 3570.42] Hear that -[3570.42 --> 3572.52] But -[3572.52 --> 3573.44] What I would -[3573.44 --> 3574.26] Like to do -[3574.26 --> 3575.00] With us -[3575.00 --> 3575.48] This morning -[3575.48 --> 3576.12] Is spend -[3576.12 --> 3576.80] Some time -[3576.80 --> 3577.34] Hopefully -[3577.34 --> 3578.60] Casting -[3578.60 --> 3579.64] A compelling -[3579.64 --> 3580.44] Vision -[3580.44 --> 3581.60] A compelling -[3581.60 --> 3582.30] Picture -[3582.30 --> 3583.20] For the -[3583.20 --> 3583.70] Reason -[3583.70 --> 3584.68] Why this -[3584.68 --> 3585.22] Is such -[3585.22 --> 3586.04] An integral -[3586.04 --> 3587.04] Holy -[3587.04 --> 3587.88] Habit -[3587.88 --> 3588.64] For us -[3588.64 --> 3589.42] To develop -[3589.42 --> 3590.18] Together -[3590.18 --> 3590.54] And so -[3590.54 --> 3591.10] This morning -[3591.10 --> 3592.60] We're going to -[3592.60 --> 3593.64] Operate under -[3593.64 --> 3594.36] The banner -[3594.36 --> 3595.06] Of or the -[3595.06 --> 3595.80] Theme of -[3595.80 --> 3596.98] The big -[3596.98 --> 3597.62] Idea -[3597.62 --> 3598.64] Of this -[3598.64 --> 3599.32] Line -[3599.32 --> 3601.96] The disciple -[3601.96 --> 3602.62] Of Jesus -[3602.62 --> 3603.52] Listens -[3603.52 --> 3603.90] To -[3603.90 --> 3605.20] And -[3605.20 --> 3605.84] Learns -[3605.84 --> 3606.02] To -[3606.02 --> 3606.50] Love -[3606.50 --> 3607.84] The word -[3607.84 --> 3608.52] Of god -[3608.52 --> 3609.50] As the -[3609.50 --> 3610.02] Voice -[3610.02 --> 3610.98] Of jesus -[3610.98 --> 3611.96] For life -[3611.96 --> 3612.94] And faith -[3612.94 --> 3613.94] In him -[3613.94 --> 3614.98] Now -[3614.98 --> 3616.62] Last week -[3616.62 --> 3616.82] When we -[3616.82 --> 3617.28] Started this -[3617.28 --> 3617.52] Series -[3617.52 --> 3617.96] We gave -[3617.96 --> 3618.22] Out -[3618.22 --> 3618.88] These -[3618.88 --> 3619.44] Books -[3619.44 --> 3620.88] And -[3620.88 --> 3621.98] In each -[3621.98 --> 3622.46] Week -[3622.46 --> 3622.80] There is -[3622.80 --> 3623.30] A section -[3623.30 --> 3624.90] Called -[3624.90 --> 3625.38] Sermon -[3625.38 --> 3625.74] Notes -[3625.74 --> 3626.72] That line -[3626.72 --> 3626.98] That i -[3626.98 --> 3627.18] Just -[3627.18 --> 3627.48] Gave -[3627.48 --> 3627.76] You -[3627.76 --> 3628.06] That -[3628.06 --> 3628.82] The disciple -[3628.82 --> 3629.38] Of jesus -[3629.38 --> 3629.84] Listens -[3629.84 --> 3630.12] To -[3630.12 --> 3630.42] And -[3630.42 --> 3630.82] Loves -[3630.82 --> 3631.24] Learns -[3631.24 --> 3631.36] To -[3631.36 --> 3631.60] Love -[3631.60 --> 3631.94] The word -[3631.94 --> 3632.26] Of god -[3632.26 --> 3632.48] As the -[3632.48 --> 3632.68] Voice -[3632.68 --> 3633.02] Of jesus -[3633.02 --> 3633.44] For life -[3633.44 --> 3633.78] And faith -[3633.78 --> 3634.46] Is in -[3634.46 --> 3634.74] There -[3634.74 --> 3635.72] And then -[3635.72 --> 3635.96] You have -[3635.96 --> 3636.28] Your note -[3636.28 --> 3636.66] Section -[3636.66 --> 3637.28] And so -[3637.28 --> 3637.96] These books -[3637.96 --> 3638.56] Are intended -[3638.56 --> 3639.26] To help -[3639.26 --> 3640.28] You engage -[3640.28 --> 3640.80] Both this -[3640.80 --> 3641.26] Material -[3641.26 --> 3642.04] And its -[3642.04 --> 3642.76] Practice -[3642.76 --> 3643.66] Throughout the -[3643.66 --> 3643.86] Week -[3643.86 --> 3644.10] And so -[3644.10 --> 3644.32] If you -[3644.32 --> 3644.90] Didn't get -[3644.90 --> 3645.54] One last -[3645.54 --> 3645.92] Week -[3645.92 --> 3646.62] Or you -[3646.62 --> 3647.50] Have misplaced -[3647.50 --> 3647.98] It and -[3647.98 --> 3649.26] Are reprioritizing -[3649.26 --> 3650.04] That there -[3650.04 --> 3650.34] Are more -[3650.34 --> 3650.92] Available at -[3650.92 --> 3651.32] The back -[3651.32 --> 3652.94] Or in -[3652.94 --> 3653.56] The office -[3653.56 --> 3655.30] Later -[3655.30 --> 3655.84] So please -[3655.84 --> 3656.92] Grab one -[3656.92 --> 3657.76] Before you -[3657.76 --> 3658.04] Go -[3658.04 --> 3658.98] Today -[3658.98 --> 3660.90] Also -[3660.90 --> 3665.36] This morning -[3665.36 --> 3666.12] As we -[3666.12 --> 3667.24] Study -[3667.24 --> 3668.82] The holy -[3668.82 --> 3669.48] Habit -[3669.48 --> 3670.40] Of listening -[3670.40 --> 3671.52] To jesus -[3671.52 --> 3672.02] The holy -[3672.02 --> 3672.38] Habit -[3672.38 --> 3673.40] Of scripture -[3673.40 --> 3673.82] Reading -[3673.82 --> 3675.08] Remember -[3675.08 --> 3676.24] From last -[3676.24 --> 3676.72] Time -[3676.72 --> 3677.38] That we -[3677.38 --> 3678.32] Are training -[3678.32 --> 3679.42] Our ears -[3679.42 --> 3680.32] To -[3680.32 --> 3681.34] As we -[3681.34 --> 3681.94] Think about -[3681.94 --> 3682.46] These holy -[3682.46 --> 3682.90] Habits -[3682.90 --> 3683.70] To listen -[3683.70 --> 3684.72] For how -[3684.72 --> 3685.96] These individual -[3685.96 --> 3686.58] Holy -[3686.58 --> 3688.10] Habits -[3688.10 --> 3688.78] How these -[3688.78 --> 3689.66] Things that -[3689.66 --> 3690.48] You practice -[3690.48 --> 3692.14] And take -[3692.14 --> 3692.80] Into the -[3692.80 --> 3693.16] Rhythms -[3693.16 --> 3693.68] Of your -[3693.68 --> 3694.10] Life -[3694.10 --> 3695.38] Whether it's -[3695.38 --> 3695.80] Scripture -[3695.80 --> 3696.14] Reading -[3696.14 --> 3696.82] Or prayer -[3696.82 --> 3697.78] Or community -[3697.78 --> 3698.56] Or giving -[3698.56 --> 3699.78] Or worship -[3699.78 --> 3701.18] Whichever one -[3701.18 --> 3701.54] We go -[3701.54 --> 3701.92] Through -[3701.92 --> 3702.98] How each -[3702.98 --> 3703.28] Of these -[3703.28 --> 3703.96] Holy habits -[3703.96 --> 3704.44] Have both -[3704.44 --> 3705.24] An inward -[3705.24 --> 3706.42] Internal -[3706.42 --> 3707.46] Aspect -[3707.46 --> 3708.44] And how -[3708.44 --> 3708.82] They have -[3708.82 --> 3709.62] An external -[3709.62 --> 3710.64] Or outward -[3710.64 --> 3711.86] Aspect to -[3711.86 --> 3712.06] Them -[3712.06 --> 3712.92] Right -[3712.92 --> 3713.44] How does -[3713.44 --> 3714.38] This discipline -[3714.38 --> 3715.32] This habit -[3715.32 --> 3716.20] Grow my -[3716.20 --> 3716.96] Relationship to -[3716.96 --> 3717.28] God -[3717.28 --> 3717.86] In jesus -[3717.86 --> 3718.88] And how -[3718.88 --> 3719.44] Does this -[3719.44 --> 3719.94] Discipline -[3719.94 --> 3720.40] This habit -[3720.40 --> 3720.76] Give me -[3720.76 --> 3721.50] Opportunity -[3721.50 --> 3721.94] Or grow -[3721.94 --> 3722.76] My opportunities -[3722.76 --> 3723.80] To love -[3723.80 --> 3724.60] And serve -[3724.60 --> 3725.34] My neighbor -[3725.34 --> 3727.14] So inward -[3727.14 --> 3728.14] And outward -[3728.14 --> 3729.16] As we -[3729.16 --> 3730.36] Learn to -[3730.36 --> 3730.86] Love -[3730.86 --> 3731.48] The word -[3731.48 --> 3731.90] Of god -[3731.90 --> 3732.24] As the -[3732.24 --> 3732.64] Voice of -[3732.64 --> 3732.90] Jesus -[3732.90 --> 3733.56] For life -[3733.56 --> 3734.46] And faith -[3734.46 --> 3735.22] In him -[3735.22 --> 3735.80] This will -[3735.80 --> 3736.42] Be true -[3736.42 --> 3737.24] As we -[3737.24 --> 3738.36] Look at -[3738.36 --> 3739.02] God's -[3739.02 --> 3739.74] Word -[3739.74 --> 3741.38] Now in -[3741.38 --> 3742.08] The word -[3742.08 --> 3743.30] What we're -[3743.30 --> 3743.64] Going to see -[3743.64 --> 3744.02] In john -[3744.02 --> 3744.50] Six -[3744.50 --> 3745.52] In the -[3745.52 --> 3745.80] Word -[3745.80 --> 3746.42] Is how -[3746.42 --> 3747.20] You take -[3747.20 --> 3748.14] In -[3748.14 --> 3749.48] Jesus -[3749.48 --> 3751.18] Like i said -[3751.18 --> 3751.44] We're going -[3751.44 --> 3751.74] To make -[3751.74 --> 3752.22] This point -[3752.22 --> 3752.64] In john -[3752.64 --> 3752.96] Six -[3752.96 --> 3753.44] We started -[3753.44 --> 3753.82] Reading -[3753.82 --> 3754.80] At verse -[3754.80 --> 3755.26] 60 -[3755.26 --> 3756.50] But we're -[3756.50 --> 3756.94] Actually going -[3756.94 --> 3757.16] To go -[3757.16 --> 3757.68] Back -[3757.68 --> 3758.84] To that -[3758.84 --> 3759.30] Hard -[3759.30 --> 3759.88] Teaching -[3759.88 --> 3761.12] That jesus -[3761.12 --> 3761.58] Mentions -[3761.58 --> 3761.90] At the -[3761.90 --> 3762.22] Beginning -[3762.22 --> 3763.50] To underscore -[3763.50 --> 3764.84] What's going -[3764.84 --> 3765.50] On jesus -[3765.50 --> 3765.96] Says -[3765.96 --> 3766.52] On hearing -[3766.52 --> 3766.88] It many -[3766.88 --> 3767.10] Of the -[3767.10 --> 3767.58] Disciples -[3767.58 --> 3768.30] Said this -[3768.30 --> 3768.80] Is a -[3768.80 --> 3769.18] Hard -[3769.18 --> 3769.80] Teaching -[3769.80 --> 3770.60] Who -[3770.60 --> 3770.88] Can -[3770.88 --> 3771.26] Accept -[3771.26 --> 3771.50] It -[3771.50 --> 3772.90] So -[3772.90 --> 3773.40] It -[3773.40 --> 3775.16] Behooves -[3775.16 --> 3775.52] Us -[3775.52 --> 3776.92] To go -[3776.92 --> 3777.40] Back to -[3777.40 --> 3777.86] That hard -[3777.86 --> 3778.22] Teaching -[3778.22 --> 3778.98] What is -[3778.98 --> 3779.16] It -[3779.16 --> 3779.70] That jesus -[3779.70 --> 3781.58] Is talking -[3781.58 --> 3781.94] About -[3781.94 --> 3782.76] Now in -[3782.76 --> 3782.90] Verse -[3782.90 --> 3783.50] 26 -[3783.50 --> 3784.84] Jesus -[3784.84 --> 3785.70] Says -[3785.70 --> 3788.16] I tell -[3788.16 --> 3788.46] You the -[3788.46 --> 3788.82] Truth -[3788.82 --> 3789.60] You are -[3789.60 --> 3789.88] Looking -[3789.88 --> 3790.40] For me -[3790.40 --> 3790.98] Not because -[3790.98 --> 3791.38] You saw -[3791.38 --> 3792.00] Miraculous -[3792.00 --> 3792.68] Signs -[3792.68 --> 3793.30] But because -[3793.30 --> 3793.74] You ate -[3793.74 --> 3794.52] The loaves -[3794.52 --> 3795.32] And had -[3795.32 --> 3795.84] Your fill -[3795.84 --> 3797.36] Jesus is -[3797.36 --> 3797.88] Referring -[3797.88 --> 3798.26] To the -[3798.26 --> 3798.60] Miracle -[3798.60 --> 3799.08] Of feeding -[3799.08 --> 3799.30] The -[3799.30 --> 3799.60] Five -[3799.60 --> 3800.10] Thousand -[3800.10 --> 3800.66] You will -[3800.66 --> 3800.92] Remember -[3800.92 --> 3801.50] He was -[3801.50 --> 3801.86] Teaching -[3801.86 --> 3802.94] On a -[3802.94 --> 3803.46] Hillside -[3803.46 --> 3803.82] And it -[3803.82 --> 3804.32] Grew -[3804.32 --> 3804.64] To the -[3804.64 --> 3804.80] End -[3804.80 --> 3805.00] Of the -[3805.00 --> 3805.24] Day -[3805.24 --> 3805.62] And people -[3805.62 --> 3805.76] Were -[3805.76 --> 3805.98] Getting -[3805.98 --> 3806.44] Hungry -[3806.44 --> 3807.06] And so -[3807.06 --> 3807.22] They -[3807.22 --> 3807.84] Collected -[3807.84 --> 3808.66] Five loaves -[3808.66 --> 3809.00] And two -[3809.00 --> 3809.38] Fishes -[3809.38 --> 3809.78] And -[3809.78 --> 3810.54] They -[3810.54 --> 3811.08] Jesus -[3811.08 --> 3811.48] Started -[3811.48 --> 3811.88] Breaking -[3811.88 --> 3812.42] That up -[3812.42 --> 3812.98] And passing -[3812.98 --> 3813.34] It out -[3813.34 --> 3813.80] For everyone -[3813.80 --> 3814.24] To eat -[3814.24 --> 3814.86] And five -[3814.86 --> 3815.44] Thousand -[3815.44 --> 3816.34] Men plus -[3816.34 --> 3816.76] Women and -[3816.76 --> 3817.04] Children -[3817.04 --> 3817.52] Ate -[3817.52 --> 3818.12] That day -[3818.12 --> 3818.54] And were -[3818.54 --> 3818.84] Filled -[3818.84 --> 3819.42] The disciples -[3819.42 --> 3819.90] Went and -[3819.90 --> 3820.42] They collected -[3820.42 --> 3821.36] Twelve baskets -[3821.36 --> 3822.26] Of leftovers -[3822.26 --> 3823.06] It was -[3823.06 --> 3823.36] It was a -[3823.36 --> 3824.12] Miracle -[3824.12 --> 3825.22] Of multiplication -[3825.22 --> 3827.22] And they -[3827.22 --> 3828.58] Quite -[3828.58 --> 3828.90] Literally -[3828.90 --> 3829.54] Jesus is -[3829.54 --> 3829.78] Saying -[3829.78 --> 3829.98] They -[3829.98 --> 3830.32] Left -[3830.32 --> 3830.62] With -[3830.62 --> 3830.86] Their -[3830.86 --> 3831.68] Stomachs -[3831.68 --> 3832.16] Full -[3832.16 --> 3833.88] But he -[3833.88 --> 3834.44] Reminds -[3834.44 --> 3834.68] Them -[3834.68 --> 3835.34] Of this -[3835.34 --> 3836.64] And this -[3836.64 --> 3837.38] Opportunity -[3837.38 --> 3838.00] That they -[3838.00 --> 3838.28] Came -[3838.28 --> 3838.78] To find -[3838.78 --> 3839.00] Him -[3839.00 --> 3839.34] Now -[3839.34 --> 3839.96] Because -[3839.96 --> 3840.16] He -[3840.16 --> 3840.38] Wants -[3840.38 --> 3841.42] To expose -[3841.42 --> 3842.44] To them -[3842.44 --> 3843.64] The truth -[3843.64 --> 3844.60] Of their -[3844.60 --> 3845.64] Hearts -[3845.64 --> 3847.26] He wants -[3847.26 --> 3847.86] To reveal -[3847.86 --> 3848.44] To them -[3848.44 --> 3848.94] That what's -[3848.94 --> 3849.48] Happening -[3849.48 --> 3850.00] Here -[3850.00 --> 3850.66] Right -[3850.66 --> 3850.96] And what -[3850.96 --> 3851.46] He is -[3851.46 --> 3851.78] Giving -[3851.78 --> 3852.40] Isn't -[3852.40 --> 3852.82] Just -[3852.82 --> 3853.28] A -[3853.28 --> 3853.84] Physical -[3853.84 --> 3854.84] Reality -[3854.84 --> 3855.34] But there's -[3855.34 --> 3855.58] Something -[3855.58 --> 3856.32] Underneath -[3856.32 --> 3856.48] It -[3856.48 --> 3856.68] There's -[3856.68 --> 3856.92] Something -[3856.92 --> 3857.80] Deeper -[3857.80 --> 3858.06] There's -[3858.06 --> 3858.36] Something -[3858.36 --> 3858.78] Even -[3858.78 --> 3859.36] More -[3859.36 --> 3859.92] Important -[3859.92 --> 3860.28] Going -[3860.28 --> 3860.74] On -[3860.74 --> 3861.32] In their -[3861.32 --> 3862.00] Interactions -[3862.00 --> 3862.34] With -[3862.34 --> 3862.68] Jesus -[3862.68 --> 3863.12] And in -[3863.12 --> 3863.28] With -[3863.28 --> 3863.58] Meeting -[3863.58 --> 3864.18] With -[3864.18 --> 3864.54] Him -[3864.54 --> 3865.10] Than -[3865.10 --> 3865.68] Having -[3865.68 --> 3865.92] Their -[3865.92 --> 3866.30] Bellies -[3866.30 --> 3866.58] Filled -[3866.58 --> 3866.82] Although -[3866.82 --> 3867.12] That is -[3867.12 --> 3867.54] Important -[3867.54 --> 3868.28] And -[3868.28 --> 3868.86] Necessary -[3868.86 --> 3869.36] But -[3869.36 --> 3869.72] Here -[3869.72 --> 3870.96] Jesus -[3870.96 --> 3871.80] Says -[3871.80 --> 3872.68] In -[3872.68 --> 3872.86] Verse -[3872.86 --> 3873.42] 29 -[3873.42 --> 3874.00] The -[3874.00 --> 3874.32] Work -[3874.32 --> 3874.58] Of -[3874.58 --> 3874.90] God -[3874.90 --> 3875.14] Is -[3875.14 --> 3875.56] This -[3875.56 --> 3876.46] To -[3876.46 --> 3876.88] Believe -[3876.88 --> 3877.40] In -[3877.40 --> 3877.54] The -[3877.54 --> 3877.90] One -[3877.90 --> 3878.30] He -[3878.30 --> 3878.74] Has -[3878.74 --> 3879.60] Sent -[3879.60 --> 3881.10] And so -[3881.10 --> 3881.38] Jesus -[3881.38 --> 3881.64] Says -[3881.64 --> 3881.92] You've -[3881.92 --> 3882.14] Come -[3882.14 --> 3882.32] To -[3882.32 --> 3882.48] Me -[3882.48 --> 3882.74] Because -[3882.74 --> 3882.88] You -[3882.88 --> 3883.06] Have -[3883.06 --> 3883.32] This -[3883.32 --> 3883.78] Physical -[3883.78 --> 3884.54] Need -[3884.54 --> 3884.78] But -[3884.78 --> 3885.14] I've -[3885.14 --> 3885.32] Come -[3885.32 --> 3885.50] To -[3885.50 --> 3885.78] You -[3885.78 --> 3886.10] Because -[3886.10 --> 3886.34] There's -[3886.34 --> 3886.48] A -[3886.48 --> 3886.78] Greater -[3886.78 --> 3887.60] Spiritual -[3887.60 --> 3888.54] Need -[3888.54 --> 3888.82] And that -[3888.82 --> 3888.96] Is -[3888.96 --> 3889.14] To -[3889.14 --> 3889.64] Believe -[3889.64 --> 3890.22] In -[3890.22 --> 3890.42] The -[3890.42 --> 3890.68] One -[3890.68 --> 3891.00] Whom -[3891.00 --> 3891.38] God -[3891.38 --> 3891.92] Has -[3891.92 --> 3892.16] Sent -[3892.16 --> 3892.36] To -[3892.36 --> 3892.92] Believe -[3892.92 --> 3893.52] In -[3893.52 --> 3893.98] Jesus -[3893.98 --> 3894.32] To -[3894.32 --> 3894.96] Encounter -[3894.96 --> 3895.34] Him -[3895.34 --> 3895.52] And -[3895.52 --> 3895.70] Be -[3895.70 --> 3896.02] Found -[3896.02 --> 3896.28] By -[3896.28 --> 3896.56] Him -[3896.56 --> 3896.78] And -[3896.78 --> 3897.10] Found -[3897.10 --> 3897.70] In -[3897.70 --> 3898.04] Him -[3898.04 --> 3898.20] And -[3898.20 --> 3898.68] As -[3898.68 --> 3898.94] Jesus -[3898.94 --> 3899.18] Will -[3899.18 --> 3899.52] Explain -[3899.52 --> 3899.86] Later -[3899.86 --> 3900.28] That -[3900.28 --> 3900.56] Only -[3900.56 --> 3901.10] Happens -[3901.10 --> 3901.40] You -[3901.40 --> 3901.58] Only -[3901.58 --> 3901.82] Come -[3901.82 --> 3901.94] To -[3901.94 --> 3902.36] Believe -[3902.36 --> 3902.64] In -[3902.64 --> 3902.90] Him -[3902.90 --> 3903.08] When -[3903.08 --> 3903.24] The -[3903.24 --> 3903.50] Father -[3903.50 --> 3904.04] Draws -[3904.04 --> 3904.24] You -[3904.24 --> 3905.04] To -[3905.04 --> 3905.30] Him -[3905.30 --> 3905.86] But -[3905.86 --> 3906.06] There's -[3906.06 --> 3906.26] A -[3906.26 --> 3907.54] Deeper -[3907.54 --> 3908.16] Meaning -[3908.16 --> 3909.70] Going -[3909.70 --> 3910.10] On -[3910.10 --> 3910.38] In -[3910.38 --> 3910.72] This -[3910.72 --> 3911.90] Exchange -[3911.90 --> 3913.56] And -[3913.56 --> 3913.86] Yet -[3913.86 --> 3915.58] The -[3915.58 --> 3916.04] People -[3916.04 --> 3917.70] Want -[3917.70 --> 3917.82] To -[3917.82 --> 3918.04] Make -[3918.04 --> 3918.16] It -[3918.16 --> 3918.48] About -[3918.48 --> 3919.20] Something -[3919.20 --> 3919.58] Else -[3919.58 --> 3920.64] And -[3920.64 --> 3920.80] So -[3920.80 --> 3921.08] Jesus -[3921.08 --> 3921.48] Says -[3921.48 --> 3922.02] The -[3922.02 --> 3922.20] Work -[3922.20 --> 3922.34] Of -[3922.34 --> 3922.52] God -[3922.52 --> 3922.68] Is -[3922.68 --> 3922.88] This -[3922.88 --> 3923.04] To -[3923.04 --> 3923.34] Believe -[3923.34 --> 3923.48] In -[3923.48 --> 3923.58] The -[3923.58 --> 3923.72] One -[3923.72 --> 3923.86] Who -[3923.86 --> 3924.02] Has -[3924.02 --> 3924.20] Sent -[3924.20 --> 3924.34] Me -[3924.34 --> 3924.48] And -[3924.48 --> 3924.64] They -[3924.64 --> 3925.22] Respond -[3925.22 --> 3925.86] What -[3925.86 --> 3926.60] Miraculous -[3926.60 --> 3927.12] Sign -[3927.12 --> 3927.50] Then -[3927.50 --> 3927.74] Will -[3927.74 --> 3927.88] You -[3927.88 --> 3928.22] Give -[3928.22 --> 3928.40] That -[3928.40 --> 3928.52] We -[3928.52 --> 3928.72] May -[3928.72 --> 3929.00] See -[3929.00 --> 3929.14] It -[3929.14 --> 3929.30] And -[3929.30 --> 3929.60] Believe -[3929.60 --> 3929.84] You -[3929.84 --> 3930.64] What -[3930.64 --> 3930.74] Will -[3930.74 --> 3930.86] You -[3931.82 --> 3932.10] Our -[3932.10 --> 3932.52] Fathers -[3932.52 --> 3932.84] Ate -[3932.84 --> 3933.08] Manna -[3933.08 --> 3933.28] In -[3933.28 --> 3933.40] The -[3933.40 --> 3933.72] Desert -[3933.72 --> 3933.98] As -[3933.98 --> 3934.08] It -[3934.08 --> 3934.20] Is -[3934.20 --> 3934.40] Written -[3934.40 --> 3934.62] He -[3934.62 --> 3934.88] Gave -[3934.88 --> 3935.06] Them -[3935.06 --> 3935.36] Bread -[3935.36 --> 3935.62] From -[3935.62 --> 3936.04] Heaven -[3936.04 --> 3937.02] To -[3937.02 --> 3937.30] Eat -[3937.30 --> 3939.54] And -[3939.54 --> 3939.66] You -[3939.66 --> 3939.80] See -[3939.80 --> 3940.44] Immediately -[3940.44 --> 3940.90] Jesus -[3940.90 --> 3941.42] Says -[3941.42 --> 3941.66] It's -[3941.66 --> 3941.84] About -[3941.84 --> 3942.04] A -[3942.04 --> 3942.56] Spiritual -[3942.56 --> 3943.06] Need -[3943.06 --> 3943.26] And -[3943.26 --> 3943.42] A -[3943.42 --> 3943.76] Spiritual -[3943.76 --> 3944.30] Reality -[3944.30 --> 3944.58] And -[3944.58 --> 3944.72] Then -[3944.72 --> 3944.92] They -[3944.92 --> 3945.12] Go -[3945.12 --> 3945.50] Back -[3945.50 --> 3946.66] Demanding -[3946.66 --> 3946.94] A -[3946.94 --> 3947.36] Sign -[3947.36 --> 3948.32] They -[3948.32 --> 3948.48] Go -[3948.48 --> 3948.76] Back -[3948.76 --> 3949.10] Making -[3949.10 --> 3949.34] It -[3949.34 --> 3949.90] A -[3949.90 --> 3950.96] Material -[3950.96 --> 3951.32] Or -[3951.32 --> 3951.58] A -[3951.58 --> 3952.00] Physical -[3952.00 --> 3952.94] Reality -[3952.94 --> 3953.16] And -[3953.16 --> 3953.30] What -[3953.30 --> 3953.44] They're -[3953.44 --> 3953.80] Doing -[3953.80 --> 3954.10] There -[3954.10 --> 3954.32] Is -[3954.32 --> 3954.54] They're -[3954.54 --> 3955.02] They're -[3955.02 --> 3955.32] Making -[3955.32 --> 3955.52] It -[3955.52 --> 3955.92] About -[3955.92 --> 3956.22] The -[3956.22 --> 3956.76] Sign -[3956.76 --> 3957.20] Not -[3957.20 --> 3957.48] About -[3957.48 --> 3957.74] The -[3957.74 --> 3958.04] Savior -[3958.04 --> 3959.72] Right -[3959.72 --> 3959.84] Or -[3959.84 --> 3960.00] To -[3960.00 --> 3960.16] Put -[3960.16 --> 3960.28] It -[3960.28 --> 3960.56] Another -[3960.56 --> 3960.82] Way -[3960.82 --> 3961.10] They're -[3961.10 --> 3961.50] They're -[3961.50 --> 3961.74] Making -[3961.74 --> 3961.92] It -[3961.92 --> 3962.12] About -[3962.12 --> 3962.34] The -[3962.34 --> 3962.90] Miracle -[3962.90 --> 3963.90] Not -[3963.90 --> 3964.26] The -[3964.26 --> 3964.96] Maker -[3964.96 --> 3965.64] Of -[3965.64 --> 3965.76] The -[3965.76 --> 3966.10] World -[3966.10 --> 3967.12] And -[3967.12 --> 3967.36] Jesus -[3967.36 --> 3967.62] Is -[3967.62 --> 3967.84] Saying -[3967.84 --> 3968.06] No -[3968.06 --> 3968.24] It -[3968.24 --> 3968.38] Is -[3968.38 --> 3968.64] About -[3968.64 --> 3969.40] Me -[3969.40 --> 3969.88] As -[3969.88 --> 3970.40] Savior -[3970.40 --> 3970.84] Sent -[3970.84 --> 3971.04] To -[3971.04 --> 3971.42] You -[3971.42 --> 3972.04] By -[3972.04 --> 3972.32] My -[3972.32 --> 3973.06] Father -[3973.06 --> 3974.66] But -[3974.66 --> 3975.00] They -[3975.00 --> 3975.52] Want -[3975.52 --> 3975.86] To -[3975.86 --> 3976.96] Look -[3976.96 --> 3977.42] Only -[3977.42 --> 3977.72] To -[3977.72 --> 3977.96] What -[3977.96 --> 3978.18] He -[3978.18 --> 3978.60] Can -[3978.60 --> 3979.74] Provide -[3979.74 --> 3979.96] In -[3979.96 --> 3980.12] A -[3980.12 --> 3980.66] Physical -[3980.66 --> 3981.40] Way -[3981.40 --> 3981.62] And -[3981.62 --> 3981.78] I -[3981.78 --> 3982.08] Know -[3982.08 --> 3982.36] That -[3982.36 --> 3982.96] We -[3982.96 --> 3983.44] Are -[3983.44 --> 3984.06] Tempted -[3984.06 --> 3984.20] To -[3984.20 --> 3984.36] Do -[3984.36 --> 3984.56] The -[3984.56 --> 3984.80] Same -[3984.80 --> 3985.96] We -[3985.96 --> 3986.18] Are -[3986.18 --> 3986.62] Tempted -[3986.62 --> 3986.82] To -[3986.82 --> 3987.34] Make -[3987.34 --> 3987.48] It -[3987.48 --> 3987.74] About -[3987.74 --> 3988.18] Something -[3988.18 --> 3988.52] Other -[3988.52 --> 3988.78] Than -[3988.78 --> 3989.44] Having -[3989.44 --> 3990.30] Jesus -[3990.30 --> 3991.52] Instead -[3991.52 --> 3992.30] Having -[3992.30 --> 3992.56] What -[3992.56 --> 3992.82] Jesus -[3992.82 --> 3993.54] Provides -[3993.54 --> 3994.82] Right -[3994.82 --> 3995.02] We're -[3995.02 --> 3995.54] Tempted -[3995.54 --> 3995.98] To -[3995.98 --> 3997.32] Not -[3997.32 --> 3997.62] Make -[3997.62 --> 3997.96] Much -[3997.96 --> 3998.18] Of -[3998.18 --> 3998.36] The -[3998.36 --> 3998.72] Name -[3998.72 --> 3998.98] Of -[3998.98 --> 3999.34] Jesus -[3999.34 --> 3999.84] But -[3999.84 --> 4000.10] To -[4000.10 --> 4000.40] Make -[4000.40 --> 4000.68] Much -[4000.68 --> 4000.86] Of -[4000.86 --> 4000.98] The -[4000.98 --> 4001.18] Life -[4001.18 --> 4001.34] He -[4001.34 --> 4001.58] Gives -[4001.58 --> 4001.98] Us -[4001.98 --> 4003.18] Or -[4003.18 --> 4003.36] To -[4003.36 --> 4003.84] Make -[4003.84 --> 4004.06] As -[4004.06 --> 4004.26] Much -[4004.26 --> 4004.46] As -[4004.46 --> 4004.60] We -[4004.60 --> 4004.88] Can -[4004.88 --> 4005.10] In -[4005.10 --> 4005.42] Life -[4005.42 --> 4005.66] And -[4005.66 --> 4005.80] Then -[4005.80 --> 4005.98] Pay -[4005.98 --> 4006.24] Lip -[4006.24 --> 4006.56] Service -[4006.56 --> 4006.82] To -[4006.82 --> 4007.18] Jesus -[4007.18 --> 4007.86] By -[4007.86 --> 4008.14] Saying -[4008.14 --> 4008.44] Isn't -[4008.44 --> 4008.56] He -[4008.56 --> 4008.74] So -[4008.74 --> 4008.98] Good -[4008.98 --> 4009.18] Look -[4009.18 --> 4009.26] At -[4009.26 --> 4009.38] What -[4009.38 --> 4009.48] He -[4009.48 --> 4009.74] Gave -[4009.74 --> 4009.94] Me -[4009.94 --> 4011.42] But -[4011.42 --> 4011.60] Even -[4011.60 --> 4011.76] If -[4011.76 --> 4011.86] You -[4011.86 --> 4012.00] Have -[4012.00 --> 4012.36] None -[4012.36 --> 4012.56] Of -[4012.56 --> 4012.86] Those -[4012.86 --> 4013.28] Things -[4013.28 --> 4013.66] Jesus -[4013.66 --> 4013.96] Is -[4013.96 --> 4014.34] Saying -[4014.34 --> 4014.84] Your -[4014.84 --> 4015.18] Need -[4015.18 --> 4015.42] For -[4015.42 --> 4015.64] Me -[4015.64 --> 4015.90] Is -[4015.90 --> 4016.48] Greater -[4016.48 --> 4017.28] Than -[4017.28 --> 4017.48] Your -[4017.48 --> 4017.74] Need -[4017.74 --> 4018.04] For -[4018.04 --> 4019.34] Whatever -[4019.34 --> 4020.24] Other -[4020.24 --> 4021.12] Thing -[4021.12 --> 4021.70] And -[4021.70 --> 4021.82] He -[4021.82 --> 4022.30] Grounds -[4022.30 --> 4022.40] It -[4022.40 --> 4022.78] Again -[4022.78 --> 4023.88] In -[4023.88 --> 4024.44] This -[4024.44 --> 4025.24] Spiritual -[4025.24 --> 4026.50] Reality -[4026.50 --> 4026.76] In -[4026.76 --> 4026.96] Verse -[4026.96 --> 4027.54] 35 -[4027.54 --> 4028.02] Jesus -[4028.02 --> 4028.98] Declares -[4028.98 --> 4029.16] To -[4029.16 --> 4029.30] Them -[4029.30 --> 4029.72] I -[4029.72 --> 4030.10] Am -[4030.10 --> 4030.34] The -[4030.34 --> 4030.70] Bread -[4030.70 --> 4030.98] Of -[4030.98 --> 4031.42] Life -[4031.42 --> 4032.10] He -[4032.10 --> 4032.32] Who -[4032.32 --> 4032.60] Comes -[4032.60 --> 4032.76] To -[4032.76 --> 4032.94] Me -[4032.94 --> 4033.22] Will -[4033.22 --> 4033.70] Never -[4033.70 --> 4034.50] Go -[4034.50 --> 4034.98] Hungry -[4034.98 --> 4035.16] And -[4035.16 --> 4035.36] He -[4035.36 --> 4035.58] Who -[4035.58 --> 4036.10] Believes -[4036.10 --> 4036.32] In -[4036.32 --> 4036.62] Me -[4036.62 --> 4037.22] Will -[4037.22 --> 4037.70] Never -[4037.70 --> 4038.76] Be -[4038.76 --> 4039.22] Thirsty -[4039.22 --> 4041.00] Right -[4041.00 --> 4041.28] Jesus -[4041.28 --> 4041.56] Is -[4041.56 --> 4042.74] Naming -[4042.74 --> 4043.38] Again -[4043.38 --> 4043.72] This -[4043.72 --> 4044.46] Spiritual -[4044.46 --> 4045.00] Need -[4045.00 --> 4045.22] And -[4045.22 --> 4045.46] This -[4045.46 --> 4045.96] Spiritual -[4045.96 --> 4046.60] Reality -[4046.60 --> 4046.88] That -[4046.88 --> 4047.06] Has -[4047.06 --> 4047.18] To -[4047.18 --> 4047.38] Be -[4047.38 --> 4048.24] Filled -[4048.24 --> 4048.56] In -[4048.56 --> 4048.90] Us -[4048.90 --> 4049.48] And -[4049.48 --> 4050.22] For -[4050.22 --> 4050.72] Us -[4050.72 --> 4051.08] And -[4051.08 --> 4051.54] Only -[4051.54 --> 4052.44] By -[4052.44 --> 4052.86] Him -[4052.86 --> 4054.40] But -[4054.40 --> 4054.78] Again -[4054.78 --> 4055.22] As -[4055.22 --> 4055.52] People -[4055.52 --> 4055.72] Are -[4055.72 --> 4055.92] Want -[4055.92 --> 4056.08] To -[4056.08 --> 4056.30] Do -[4056.30 --> 4056.58] And -[4056.58 --> 4057.04] As -[4057.04 --> 4057.20] You -[4057.20 --> 4057.42] Know -[4057.42 --> 4057.68] In -[4057.68 --> 4057.84] Your -[4057.84 --> 4058.08] Own -[4058.08 --> 4058.40] Life -[4058.40 --> 4058.64] You -[4058.64 --> 4058.86] Are -[4058.86 --> 4059.10] Want -[4059.10 --> 4059.26] To -[4059.26 --> 4059.52] Do -[4059.52 --> 4060.06] They -[4060.06 --> 4060.56] Dismiss -[4060.56 --> 4060.84] It -[4060.84 --> 4061.82] Right -[4061.82 --> 4062.14] Verse -[4062.14 --> 4062.70] 41 -[4062.70 --> 4063.94] They -[4063.94 --> 4064.06] Try -[4064.06 --> 4064.20] To -[4064.20 --> 4064.94] Rationalize -[4064.94 --> 4065.06] It -[4065.06 --> 4065.42] Away -[4065.42 --> 4066.36] At -[4066.36 --> 4066.52] This -[4066.52 --> 4066.68] The -[4066.68 --> 4066.92] Jews -[4066.92 --> 4067.20] Began -[4067.20 --> 4067.34] To -[4067.34 --> 4067.70] Grumble -[4067.70 --> 4068.08] About -[4068.08 --> 4068.26] Him -[4068.26 --> 4068.56] Because -[4068.56 --> 4068.72] He -[4068.72 --> 4068.94] Said -[4068.94 --> 4069.24] I -[4069.24 --> 4069.56] Am -[4069.56 --> 4069.76] The -[4069.76 --> 4070.00] Bread -[4070.00 --> 4070.22] That -[4070.22 --> 4070.44] Came -[4070.44 --> 4070.68] Down -[4070.68 --> 4070.90] From -[4070.90 --> 4071.18] Heaven -[4071.18 --> 4072.30] They -[4072.30 --> 4072.66] Said -[4072.66 --> 4073.16] Is -[4073.16 --> 4073.48] This -[4073.48 --> 4073.82] Not -[4073.82 --> 4074.40] Jesus -[4074.40 --> 4075.40] The -[4075.40 --> 4075.70] Son -[4075.70 --> 4075.88] Of -[4075.88 --> 4076.30] Joseph -[4076.30 --> 4077.08] Whose -[4077.08 --> 4077.50] Father -[4077.50 --> 4077.78] And -[4077.78 --> 4078.00] Mother -[4078.00 --> 4078.32] We -[4078.32 --> 4078.68] Know -[4078.68 --> 4079.26] How -[4079.26 --> 4079.46] Can -[4079.46 --> 4079.66] He -[4079.66 --> 4079.98] Now -[4079.98 --> 4080.42] Say -[4080.42 --> 4080.82] I -[4080.82 --> 4081.16] Came -[4081.16 --> 4081.54] Down -[4081.54 --> 4082.24] From -[4082.24 --> 4082.62] Heaven -[4082.62 --> 4084.18] Right -[4084.18 --> 4084.78] They -[4084.78 --> 4084.92] Are -[4084.92 --> 4085.10] Trying -[4085.10 --> 4085.26] To -[4085.26 --> 4086.32] Rationalize -[4086.32 --> 4086.54] It -[4086.54 --> 4087.20] Away -[4087.20 --> 4087.38] They -[4087.38 --> 4087.46] Are -[4087.46 --> 4087.66] Trying -[4087.66 --> 4087.92] To -[4087.92 --> 4089.32] Minimize -[4089.32 --> 4089.84] Who -[4089.84 --> 4090.32] Jesus -[4090.32 --> 4091.04] Is -[4091.04 --> 4091.30] By -[4091.30 --> 4092.74] Pulling -[4092.74 --> 4093.22] Back -[4093.22 --> 4093.64] And -[4093.64 --> 4094.14] Going -[4094.14 --> 4094.52] Back -[4094.52 --> 4094.72] To -[4094.72 --> 4094.96] This -[4094.96 --> 4095.28] Idea -[4095.28 --> 4095.48] That -[4095.48 --> 4095.56] He -[4095.56 --> 4095.68] Is -[4095.68 --> 4096.24] Just -[4096.24 --> 4096.64] A -[4096.64 --> 4096.96] Man -[4096.96 --> 4097.20] Just -[4097.20 --> 4097.44] The -[4097.44 --> 4097.70] Son -[4097.70 --> 4098.30] Of -[4098.30 --> 4098.70] Joseph -[4098.70 --> 4099.78] They -[4099.78 --> 4100.18] Continue -[4100.18 --> 4100.48] That -[4100.48 --> 4101.62] Rationalization -[4101.62 --> 4103.18] In -[4103.18 --> 4103.46] Verse -[4103.46 --> 4104.00] 52 -[4104.00 --> 4104.28] They -[4104.28 --> 4104.52] Began -[4104.52 --> 4104.66] To -[4104.66 --> 4105.00] Argue -[4105.00 --> 4105.50] Sharply -[4105.50 --> 4105.78] Among -[4105.78 --> 4106.38] Themselves -[4106.38 --> 4106.70] How -[4106.70 --> 4106.98] Can -[4106.98 --> 4107.26] This -[4107.26 --> 4107.60] Man -[4107.60 --> 4107.88] Give -[4107.88 --> 4108.06] Us -[4108.06 --> 4108.32] His -[4108.32 --> 4108.88] Flesh -[4108.88 --> 4109.60] To -[4109.60 --> 4109.90] Eat -[4109.90 --> 4110.10] Now -[4110.10 --> 4110.96] Admittedly -[4110.96 --> 4111.54] That's -[4111.54 --> 4111.96] Weird -[4111.96 --> 4114.06] Right -[4114.06 --> 4114.16] Make -[4114.16 --> 4114.66] Make -[4114.66 --> 4114.68] Make -[4114.68 --> 4114.70] Make -[4114.70 --> 4114.72] Make -[4114.72 --> 4114.86] No -[4114.86 --> 4115.24] Mistake -[4115.24 --> 4115.52] About -[4115.52 --> 4115.74] This -[4115.74 --> 4115.92] What -[4115.92 --> 4116.20] Jesus -[4116.20 --> 4116.44] Is -[4116.44 --> 4116.68] Saying -[4116.68 --> 4116.92] Here -[4116.92 --> 4117.22] Is -[4117.22 --> 4118.16] Strange -[4118.16 --> 4118.58] And -[4118.58 --> 4119.26] Abnormal -[4119.26 --> 4119.92] And -[4119.92 --> 4120.70] Confusing -[4120.70 --> 4122.64] And yet -[4122.64 --> 4123.14] Remember -[4123.14 --> 4123.58] He's -[4123.58 --> 4124.30] Revealing -[4124.30 --> 4124.98] Something -[4124.98 --> 4126.00] Deeper -[4126.00 --> 4126.50] About -[4126.50 --> 4127.00] Us -[4127.00 --> 4127.44] And -[4127.44 --> 4128.18] Our -[4128.18 --> 4128.64] Need -[4128.64 --> 4129.86] Right -[4129.86 --> 4130.20] Jesus -[4130.20 --> 4130.88] Mentions -[4130.88 --> 4131.12] The -[4131.12 --> 4131.46] Same -[4131.46 --> 4131.68] And -[4131.68 --> 4132.30] John -[4132.30 --> 4132.90] Mentions -[4132.90 --> 4133.06] The -[4133.06 --> 4133.26] Same -[4133.26 --> 4133.40] In -[4133.40 --> 4133.50] The -[4133.50 --> 4133.72] Text -[4133.72 --> 4133.86] That -[4133.86 --> 4133.94] We -[4133.94 --> 4134.18] Read -[4134.18 --> 4134.30] In -[4134.30 --> 4134.48] Verse -[4134.48 --> 4135.16] 66 -[4135.16 --> 4136.66] Because -[4136.66 --> 4137.02] It's -[4137.02 --> 4137.20] So -[4137.20 --> 4137.52] Weird -[4137.52 --> 4138.30] Right -[4138.30 --> 4138.56] From -[4138.56 --> 4138.84] This -[4138.84 --> 4139.16] Time -[4139.16 --> 4139.40] Many -[4139.40 --> 4139.58] Of -[4139.58 --> 4139.70] His -[4139.70 --> 4140.24] Disciples -[4140.24 --> 4140.72] Turned -[4140.72 --> 4141.04] Back -[4141.04 --> 4141.28] And -[4141.28 --> 4141.50] No -[4141.50 --> 4142.00] Longer -[4142.00 --> 4142.82] Followed -[4142.82 --> 4143.40] Him -[4143.40 --> 4145.16] Sometimes -[4145.16 --> 4146.06] It is -[4146.06 --> 4146.40] Really -[4146.40 --> 4146.88] Easy -[4146.88 --> 4147.16] For -[4147.16 --> 4147.56] Us -[4147.56 --> 4148.22] To -[4148.22 --> 4149.02] Take -[4149.02 --> 4149.76] The -[4149.76 --> 4151.08] Strange -[4151.08 --> 4151.56] And -[4151.56 --> 4152.02] Weird -[4152.02 --> 4152.52] Things -[4152.52 --> 4152.78] That -[4152.78 --> 4153.08] Jesus -[4153.08 --> 4153.58] Says -[4153.58 --> 4153.84] And -[4153.84 --> 4153.98] To -[4153.98 --> 4154.24] Just -[4154.24 --> 4154.74] Dismiss -[4154.74 --> 4154.96] Him -[4154.96 --> 4155.20] As -[4155.20 --> 4155.32] A -[4155.32 --> 4155.70] Result -[4155.70 --> 4157.06] It's -[4157.06 --> 4157.30] Really -[4157.30 --> 4157.62] Easy -[4157.62 --> 4157.92] In -[4157.92 --> 4158.16] Our -[4158.16 --> 4158.80] Society -[4158.80 --> 4159.18] For -[4159.18 --> 4159.78] People -[4159.78 --> 4160.00] Who -[4160.00 --> 4160.32] Don't -[4160.32 --> 4160.62] Believe -[4160.62 --> 4160.82] To -[4160.82 --> 4160.98] Hear -[4160.98 --> 4161.28] Things -[4161.28 --> 4161.50] Like -[4161.50 --> 4161.72] This -[4161.72 --> 4161.88] And -[4161.88 --> 4162.00] Go -[4162.00 --> 4162.52] Yeah -[4162.52 --> 4163.82] You're -[4163.82 --> 4164.32] Crazy -[4164.32 --> 4164.70] For -[4164.70 --> 4165.18] Believing -[4165.18 --> 4165.50] In -[4165.50 --> 4165.88] This -[4165.88 --> 4166.80] Because -[4166.80 --> 4167.46] Honestly -[4167.46 --> 4169.66] By -[4169.66 --> 4171.02] Worldly -[4171.02 --> 4171.72] Standards -[4171.72 --> 4172.50] Jesus -[4172.50 --> 4172.92] Sounds -[4172.92 --> 4173.06] A -[4173.06 --> 4173.16] Little -[4173.16 --> 4173.56] Crazy -[4173.56 --> 4173.90] Here -[4173.90 --> 4176.12] Right -[4176.12 --> 4177.08] There's -[4177.08 --> 4177.20] A -[4177.20 --> 4177.42] Point -[4177.42 --> 4177.64] That's -[4177.64 --> 4177.82] Made -[4177.82 --> 4178.02] By -[4178.02 --> 4178.40] C.S. -[4178.46 --> 4178.64] Lewis -[4178.64 --> 4181.42] In -[4181.42 --> 4182.50] Contrast -[4182.50 --> 4182.80] To -[4182.80 --> 4183.04] This -[4183.04 --> 4183.48] Idea -[4183.48 --> 4183.70] That -[4183.70 --> 4183.96] Was -[4183.96 --> 4184.64] Common -[4184.64 --> 4184.96] Then -[4184.96 --> 4185.12] And -[4185.12 --> 4185.32] Still -[4185.32 --> 4185.72] A -[4185.72 --> 4185.82] Little -[4185.82 --> 4186.00] Bit -[4186.00 --> 4186.30] Common -[4186.30 --> 4186.64] Now -[4186.64 --> 4186.86] Where -[4186.86 --> 4187.94] People -[4187.94 --> 4188.14] Would -[4188.14 --> 4188.38] Say -[4188.38 --> 4188.54] You -[4188.54 --> 4188.64] Know -[4188.64 --> 4188.94] Jesus -[4188.94 --> 4189.20] Is -[4189.20 --> 4189.40] Just -[4189.40 --> 4189.52] A -[4189.52 --> 4189.70] Really -[4189.70 --> 4189.90] Good -[4189.90 --> 4190.28] Teacher -[4190.28 --> 4191.38] Right -[4191.38 --> 4191.50] And -[4191.50 --> 4191.58] They -[4191.58 --> 4191.68] Would -[4191.68 --> 4191.80] Sort -[4191.80 --> 4191.92] Of -[4191.92 --> 4192.52] Minimize -[4192.52 --> 4192.84] Him -[4192.84 --> 4193.04] To -[4193.04 --> 4193.28] That -[4193.28 --> 4193.44] And -[4193.44 --> 4193.82] Minimize -[4193.82 --> 4194.06] His -[4194.06 --> 4194.40] Teaching -[4194.40 --> 4194.66] To -[4194.66 --> 4195.10] Some -[4195.10 --> 4195.18] Of -[4195.18 --> 4195.30] The -[4195.30 --> 4195.64] Moral -[4195.64 --> 4196.10] Lessons -[4196.10 --> 4196.30] He -[4196.30 --> 4196.62] Gave -[4196.62 --> 4196.80] That -[4196.80 --> 4196.88] He -[4196.88 --> 4197.04] Was -[4197.04 --> 4197.26] Just -[4197.26 --> 4197.40] A -[4197.40 --> 4197.56] Good -[4197.56 --> 4197.98] Teacher -[4197.98 --> 4198.80] But -[4198.80 --> 4199.02] This -[4199.02 --> 4199.36] Idea -[4199.36 --> 4199.56] That -[4199.56 --> 4199.68] He -[4199.68 --> 4199.84] Is -[4199.84 --> 4200.16] Lord -[4200.16 --> 4200.42] And -[4200.42 --> 4200.84] Savior -[4200.84 --> 4201.56] I -[4201.56 --> 4201.70] Don't -[4201.70 --> 4201.86] I -[4201.86 --> 4202.00] Don't -[4202.00 --> 4202.18] Need -[4202.18 --> 4202.44] That -[4202.44 --> 4202.94] I'll -[4202.94 --> 4203.08] Take -[4203.08 --> 4203.20] The -[4203.20 --> 4203.68] Teachings -[4203.68 --> 4203.88] Because -[4203.88 --> 4204.18] That's -[4204.18 --> 4204.40] Good -[4204.40 --> 4205.32] What -[4205.32 --> 4205.68] Lewis -[4205.68 --> 4206.14] Does -[4206.14 --> 4206.68] And -[4206.68 --> 4206.86] Says -[4206.86 --> 4207.32] Actually -[4207.32 --> 4207.58] If -[4207.58 --> 4207.70] You -[4207.70 --> 4207.92] Look -[4207.92 --> 4208.04] At -[4208.04 --> 4208.16] The -[4208.16 --> 4208.58] Teachings -[4208.58 --> 4208.70] Of -[4208.70 --> 4209.02] Jesus -[4209.02 --> 4210.00] There -[4210.00 --> 4210.14] Are -[4210.14 --> 4210.40] Only -[4210.40 --> 4210.68] Three -[4210.68 --> 4240.68] -[4240.68 --> 4247.64] right so this is jesus sounding a little bit crazy right and good teachers aren't lunatics -[4247.64 --> 4258.12] or jesus said what he said and it's actually true and if that's the case lewis said the only option -[4258.12 --> 4268.44] for understanding jesus is that he is lord lord savior and god lewis goes on to make the point -[4268.44 --> 4277.26] that that there is no room or reason to call him only a good teacher he's either a liar a lunatic -[4277.26 --> 4284.32] or the lord and if you read your new testament bible there's really only one conclusion jesus is -[4284.32 --> 4288.96] lord and yet the difficulty of that is -[4288.96 --> 4298.08] is the mystery of our faith and it makes sense that people would try to rationalize that or -[4298.08 --> 4304.86] explain it away or dismiss him as a result and we do the same thing in our own way some of us do -[4304.86 --> 4310.20] this explicitly some of us have done this explicitly for a really long time and we're only now beginning -[4310.20 --> 4317.12] to ask the kinds of hard questions of self-discernment but many of us do this more subtly -[4317.12 --> 4322.78] right not actually believing that what jesus says about himself is true -[4322.78 --> 4330.90] not actually believing like uh dave prayed earlier that that god has plans for us plans to prosper us -[4330.90 --> 4338.30] and give us hope right but we walk through life going this is all meaningless and this is pointless -[4338.30 --> 4348.34] in fact uh there's a this this past week i started reading a book uh by richard loveless -[4348.34 --> 4356.12] it's a book from the 70s it was first published in the 70s uh he's a scholar who has uh studied the -[4356.12 --> 4363.58] history of revivals in the christian church and it's a fascinating read uh and when he is writing -[4363.58 --> 4374.12] about in uh in his long book uh revival in local churches um he makes this note about the importance -[4374.12 --> 4379.90] of a hearing and preaching the gospel uh week in and week out about being radically grounded -[4379.90 --> 4385.30] in what jesus says about himself and about you by implication he says the following he says -[4385.30 --> 4392.08] christians who are no longer sure that god loves and accepts them in jesus apart from their present -[4392.08 --> 4399.22] spiritual achievements that is to say when we go around believing that that i have to hang on to god -[4399.22 --> 4404.84] that i have to do this that i have to check all these boxes of holy habits that the pastor is -[4404.84 --> 4410.86] talking about through the month of june that's how i will keep my relationship to god when we go -[4410.86 --> 4417.44] around believing that we are subconsciously radically insecure persons -[4417.44 --> 4425.32] the reason we need the gospel the reason we need jesus to expose the spiritual realities -[4425.32 --> 4432.72] of our hearts is because as soon as we make it about us we make it an impossible truth but when it's -[4432.72 --> 4440.96] about jesus and what he is doing in you and for you and how he holds on to you in life and in faith -[4440.96 --> 4452.30] then it becomes something life giving it changes reality and how you perceive reality in the midst of it -[4452.30 --> 4463.58] and yet we need that reminder whether we do it subtly or explicitly we try to rationalize it away and -[4463.58 --> 4470.56] then we know what it means to be these radically insecure faithless people -[4470.56 --> 4481.56] jesus interacting with them then gives them this hard teaching right the -[4481.56 --> 4488.44] on hearing this truth that the spiritual reality is greater than the physical one and that the -[4488.44 --> 4494.36] purpose for which jesus came is greater than and more mysterious than they could even understand -[4494.36 --> 4503.26] and the person who has come to them is the lord of the universe they said this is a hard teaching -[4503.26 --> 4508.90] but john calvin has this beautiful line on this in his commentary on the text he says -[4508.90 --> 4521.68] the hardness was in their heart not in the teaching right it's a hardness of heart that is and that makes this hard to accept -[4521.68 --> 4536.96] it's a hardness of heart that that makes us want to minimize and mitigate who jesus is and the role that his voice speaks to us -[4536.96 --> 4546.60] but jesus there too recognizing the hardness of heart has an answer and addresses that reality -[4546.60 --> 4549.84] in verse 53 he says -[4549.84 --> 4560.22] i tell you the truth unless you eat the flesh of the son of man and drink his blood you have no life in you -[4560.22 --> 4571.36] whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life and i will raise him up at the last day for my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink -[4571.36 --> 4577.88] whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me and i in him just as the living father sent me -[4577.88 --> 4583.14] and i live because of the father so the one who feeds on me will live because of me -[4583.14 --> 4592.54] this is the bread that came down from heaven your fathers ate manna and died but whoever feeds on this bread will live forever -[4592.54 --> 4606.22] now remember jesus is using a spiritual using spiritual language a spiritual metaphor to point us to a greater reality -[4606.22 --> 4614.16] and a greater need and the reality is the hard teaching that jesus is presenting here is that -[4614.16 --> 4620.78] there is nothing that you can do to earn the grace and favor of god -[4620.78 --> 4627.10] that you are dead in your transgressions and sins as the apostle paul says -[4627.10 --> 4635.76] but that you are made alive by the gospel of grace by christ jesus jesus says unless you -[4635.76 --> 4640.96] take me in unless you eat my flesh and drink my blood unless you become me -[4640.96 --> 4646.66] right what we're talking about here pastor kevin introduced this concept to us a little while ago -[4646.66 --> 4652.52] but it's a good reminder we're talking about here is the doctrine the theological truth of double -[4652.52 --> 4659.48] imputation now i recognize this is a theological concept so we're going to dig for just a minute bear with me -[4659.48 --> 4665.36] double imputation so to impute something is to give it over to someone else right you -[4665.36 --> 4671.90] impute something you give it to them and it becomes theirs or it becomes them double imputation -[4671.90 --> 4681.70] is the theological truth that that in his life jesus lived perfectly and so each week when i give you -[4681.70 --> 4685.82] the summary of the gospel and i say jesus lived the life i should have lived and died the death that i -[4685.82 --> 4692.18] deserved that's double imputation right he lived the life i should have lived so he perfectly obeyed all the -[4692.18 --> 4700.86] commands of god he was perfectly holy and did everything that god requires of his people and -[4700.86 --> 4709.54] which we daily prove that we cannot do he did it perfectly and he gives that over to us he imputes it -[4709.54 --> 4715.84] that's the first imputation so that when god now looks at you he doesn't see your sin instead he sees -[4715.84 --> 4722.40] jesus he sees jesus perfect righteousness he sees what jesus accomplished and did that we could not and -[4722.40 --> 4732.12] he has given that to you you are now defined by his life of obedience not by yours and imputation works -[4732.12 --> 4736.22] the other way jesus lived the life i should have lived and died the death that i deserve that is -[4736.22 --> 4746.78] he bore the punishment of god for my sin right that he who knew no sin became sin for us that we might -[4746.78 --> 4752.94] become the righteousness of god whose sin did he become mine thank you for those of you who pointed -[4752.94 --> 4763.48] at yourself there and not at me my sin your sin individually our sin is imputed onto him that's the -[4763.48 --> 4771.40] second imputation that's why it's double and we need both right we need his righteousness and he needs -[4771.40 --> 4779.00] to take our sin and the punishment that our sin bears if we don't have both there is no salvation -[4782.20 --> 4788.92] this is the hard teaching and jesus response to our spiritual need that he has done it all that you -[4788.92 --> 4798.36] have to take in him his righteousness his life such that when the father looks at you he sees his only -[4798.60 --> 4805.72] begotten son whom he loves you are looked at with that same love -[4808.68 --> 4815.24] and so here's the payoff okay here's where this has all been building to for us this morning -[4815.24 --> 4830.52] peter says lord to whom shall we go you have the words of eternal life we believe and know that you -[4831.24 --> 4837.56] are the holy one now hold that in your mind keep that verse there maybe keep a finger on it and and -[4837.56 --> 4846.28] listen as i read here in verse 35 i am the bread of life he who comes to me will never go hungry and he -[4846.28 --> 4855.80] who believes in me will never be thirsty right now take that and then with another finger or hand -[4855.80 --> 4860.12] keeping that in your mind look at verse 63 and i'm picturing you all now with three hands pointing at -[4860.12 --> 4866.68] different places on the bible verse 63 the spirit gives life the flesh counts for nothing the words -[4866.68 --> 4877.08] i have spoken to you are spirit and they are life you have the words of eternal life the words i have -[4877.08 --> 4885.32] spoken to you in the spirit are life i am the bread of life he who comes to me will never go hungry and he -[4885.32 --> 4893.24] who believes in me will never be thirsty when jesus says you have to take in my flesh he is primarily -[4893.24 --> 4901.40] talking about taking in his word he's primarily talking about taking in how he is revealed through -[4901.40 --> 4911.08] the gospel of grace through the revelation of god to the world right what we are learning here what jesus is -[4911.08 --> 4920.28] is showing us here is that his voice is the source of our life in him -[4924.92 --> 4935.72] and so as we come to the holy habit of scripture reading what we come to hear is the very love of god -[4935.72 --> 4942.84] for his people made flesh in jesus christ the word became flesh john says and made his dwelling among us -[4942.84 --> 4953.16] and is now offered to us in these pages so far from a dry and dusty book that belongs in the little -[4953.16 --> 4965.48] cabinet beside your dining table this is the word of life i want to come back to uh loveless richard -[4965.48 --> 4971.00] loveless in his book on revivals talking about the importance of this kind of preaching to redeem and -[4971.00 --> 4979.00] to call people to a new level of faithfulness and expression of faith in god he grounds us in this truth -[4979.80 --> 4987.56] when he says there is a sense in which the strongest self-love that we can have and this is why i love this -[4987.56 --> 4993.16] quote because we live in an age where we talk about self-love and self-help and self-care and needing to do -[4993.16 --> 4997.96] this right and needing to do that to make sure that that we have enough the strongest self-love that we -[4997.96 --> 5009.00] can have is merely the mirror image of the lively conviction that we have that god loves us what is the -[5009.00 --> 5017.96] best form of self-love that you can have in practice the truth that god loves you and that jesus has come -[5017.96 --> 5023.96] and live the life you should have lived and died the death that you deserve that is what we need to -[5023.96 --> 5035.80] remind ourselves and that is what we hear and find in the word jesus says i am the good shepherd -[5037.00 --> 5046.44] my sheep know me my sheep know my voice lord to whom shall we go you have the words of eternal life -[5046.44 --> 5055.08] go to the good shepherd know his voice right paul writes that the word of god is alive and active -[5055.08 --> 5062.28] it is sharper than any double-edged sword hear this it penetrates even dividing soul and spirit joints -[5062.28 --> 5072.44] and marrow the word of god gets into you deeply and reveals the truth to you it judges the thoughts and the attitudes -[5072.44 --> 5078.76] of the heart this is the inward aspect of this holy habit the word gets in you and it reveals -[5079.40 --> 5087.88] the truths of god to you and it applies the love of god for you and over you and we read that all -[5087.88 --> 5094.12] scripture is god-breathed and useful for teaching rebuking correcting and training in righteousness -[5094.12 --> 5102.04] this is the the outward aspect right that we are to be a community that speaks the truth of god to -[5102.04 --> 5107.80] each other that speaks the gospel over each other that learns how to take the truth of the gospel and -[5107.80 --> 5114.52] apply it to the everyday circumstances of our lives and sometimes that looks like you needing to teach me -[5114.52 --> 5119.56] sometimes that looks like you needing to rebuke me sometimes that looks like you needing to correct -[5119.56 --> 5125.00] me sometimes that looks like you training me in righteousness as we discern life and faith together -[5125.00 --> 5132.76] sometimes it looks like me doing the same for you but we are all together learning how to do this and to -[5132.76 --> 5135.32] move in this direction -[5139.88 --> 5141.08] the word of god -[5141.08 --> 5152.04] the word of god is the fuel of our eternal life in jesus and it is the means of our connection to him -[5152.04 --> 5162.20] as we are grafted in by grace through faith now of course sometimes those spiritual concepts -[5163.16 --> 5170.52] are hard to grab and hard to grasp and so you will remember that i said that jesus is talking primarily -[5171.64 --> 5183.32] about the word but the word is connected to the supper right the grace of god that is offered in the -[5183.32 --> 5190.12] words of jesus christ the grace of god that is offered in the preaching of the gospel is the same grace -[5191.00 --> 5196.36] is the same jesus that's revealed here at the word or at the table -[5196.36 --> 5206.44] and so even as we proclaim the goodness of god in the gospel we receive the goodness of god in the -[5206.44 --> 5213.24] gospel here at the table even as you are invited to eat and drink of the lord jesus of his word -[5213.24 --> 5223.48] the word we now get to eat and drink of the lord jesus made real really present here among us -[5223.48 --> 5233.80] in the bread and in the juice the concrete expression of the holy habit of being found in the word is lived -[5233.80 --> 5246.20] here at the table here at the table here we find jesus just like here we heard from him so as we come to -[5246.20 --> 5253.80] this table know that you are coming to jesus as we come to this table and you take him in with the bread -[5253.80 --> 5260.12] and with the juice know that you are taking in the word of faith as we come to this table may you be -[5260.12 --> 5270.92] strengthened and nourished and that in him and him alone we might have eternal life we're going to come -[5270.92 --> 5276.92] to this table with a bit of a liturgy it's going to invite you to speak some words that will be on the -[5276.92 --> 5286.28] screen there and then we will move through i will explain that process later we come to the table of our lord -[5286.28 --> 5291.88] as the bride of christ to the feast of the king and so lift up your hearts -[5295.32 --> 5297.88] let us give thanks to the lord our god -[5302.28 --> 5303.08] let's pray together -[5305.48 --> 5311.88] with joy we praise you gracious god for you have created heaven and earth you have made us in your -[5311.88 --> 5318.44] your image you have kept covenant with us even when we fell into sin and so we give you thanks for -[5318.44 --> 5329.00] jesus christ who by his life death and resurrection open to us the way of everlasting life amen -[5331.64 --> 5341.48] jesus before he suffered and died gave us this memorial of his sacrifice until he comes again -[5342.52 --> 5351.32] the lord jesus on the night that he was betrayed took bread and when he had given thanks he broke it and said -[5351.56 --> 5364.28] this is my body which is for you do this in remembrance of me in the same way after supper he -[5364.28 --> 5375.72] took the cup saying this cup is the new covenant in my blood do this in remembrance of me for whenever -[5375.72 --> 5383.24] we eat this bread and drink this cup we proclaim the lord's death and his resurrection until he comes -[5383.80 --> 5389.80] again this is the mystery of our faith -[5389.80 --> 5403.32] coming we wait with hope glory be to you lord jesus -[5403.32 --> 5416.76] church family the lord has prepared his table for all who love him and who trust in him alone for their salvation and so come to this table -[5416.76 --> 5421.72] come you who have much faith and you who have much faith and you who are hungry for more -[5422.52 --> 5429.40] come you who have not been to this sacrament very often and you who have been here regularly -[5429.40 --> 5437.08] come you who have tried to follow jesus and you who have failed at following jesus come to the table because here -[5437.08 --> 5444.04] you are in good company come to the table because here jesus christ is raised -[5444.04 --> 5451.64] raised these are the gifts of god for the people of god -[5452.12 --> 5458.60] as we come to the table i'm going to invite the serving elders and the worship team to come up first -[5458.60 --> 5465.08] we will serve them and then we will move through in the serving of each person here elders will go down -[5465.08 --> 5471.16] the aisles row by row inviting you up to the front um yeah ken you were right come on up -[5471.16 --> 5477.72] uh the elders will invite you to the front uh you will come and take a place around the circle here -[5477.72 --> 5485.64] uh we will serve you as the as you pass the elements to the person to your side we encourage you to say -[5485.64 --> 5492.60] the body of christ given for you and then when we pass the juice to say the blood of christ shed for you -[5493.16 --> 5497.88] we'll begin this first table with those who are serving us -[5501.16 --> 5526.12] we'll -[5531.16 --> 5548.96] Eat and remember. -[5561.16 --> 5569.92] Waterpies. -[5569.92 --> 5570.92] Waterpies. -[5570.92 --> 5574.92] Waterpies. -[5574.92 --> 5575.92] Waterpies. -[5591.16 --> 5614.78] Drink and believe. -[5621.16 --> 5633.34] As each one is making their way now to their respective place to serve, you should know -[5633.34 --> 5638.28] that as the trays come around here at the front on each tray in little cups is gluten-free -[5638.28 --> 5641.92] bread if that is something you require. -[5641.92 --> 5646.92] On that side, sure. -[5646.92 --> 5647.92] You can stay here. -[5651.16 --> 5653.66] 110 91 Beef -[5653.66 --> 5677.62] 2 High from the -[5677.62 --> 5692.48] Sing the Lord as we come to you -[5692.48 --> 5699.66] To receive the good of your holy word -[5699.66 --> 5705.82] Take your truth and come deep with this -[5705.82 --> 5712.60] Shape and fashion us in your likeness -[5712.60 --> 5718.92] Let the light of Christ may be seen today -[5718.92 --> 5726.54] In our acts of love and our deeds of faith -[5726.54 --> 5732.30] Speaking, O Lord, and fulfilling us -[5732.30 --> 5739.08] Are your purposes for your glory -[5739.08 --> 5748.58] Teach us, Lord, full obedience -[5748.58 --> 5755.08] Holy reverence to humility -[5755.08 --> 5761.86] Test our thoughts and our attitudes -[5761.86 --> 5768.32] In the radiance of your purity -[5768.32 --> 5771.86] Cause our faith to rise -[5771.86 --> 5774.86] Cause our eyes to see -[5774.86 --> 5781.64] Your majestic love and authority -[5781.64 --> 5788.64] Words of power that can never fail -[5788.64 --> 5795.64] Let your truth prevail over unbelief -[5795.64 --> 5807.26] Speak, O Lord, and renew our minds -[5807.26 --> 5814.62] Help us grasp the heights of your plans for us -[5814.62 --> 5820.56] Truths are changed from the dawn of time -[5820.56 --> 5827.34] That will echo down through eternity -[5827.34 --> 5833.34] And thy grace will stand on your promises -[5833.34 --> 5841.34] And thy faith will walk as we walked with us -[5841.34 --> 5847.04] Speak, O Lord, and your church is filled -[5847.04 --> 5853.34] And the earth is filled with your glory -[5853.34 --> 5860.74] baldg to do with you -[5860.74 --> 5861.88] And the earth is filled with your dear -[5861.98 --> 5862.58] And your glory -[5862.58 --> 5863.24] obscures over didn't чер En weil -[5863.24 --> 5863.96] Andリスト -[5864.02 --> 5864.26] The dermatitis -[5864.26 --> 5864.76] Of course -[5864.76 --> 5865.06] Anyway, our candy is filled with your family -[5865.06 --> 5865.86] Our Paul Lane -[5865.86 --> 5867.12] splintera -[5867.12 --> 5868.12] Songs -[5868.12 --> 5869.12] di -[5869.12 --> 5870.10] The Alexa -[5870.10 --> 5870.62] indicator -[5870.62 --> 5871.96] še -[5871.96 --> 5872.12] positives -[5872.12 --> 5872.60] officers -[5872.60 --> 5873.12] Be -[5873.12 --> 5874.12] glitter -[5874.12 --> 5874.26] Find -[5874.26 --> 5875.60] ba -[5876.00 --> 5876.34] faith -[5876.34 --> 5877.74] concluded -[5877.74 --> 5878.40] In -[5878.72 --> 5879.62] chapter -[5879.62 --> 5880.10] Meet -[5880.10 --> 5880.74] 入 -[5880.74 --> 5907.94] How beautiful are the hands that sand -[5907.94 --> 5915.10] The wine and the bread and the scent of the earth -[5915.10 --> 5922.74] How beautiful are the feet that walked -[5922.74 --> 5930.18] The long dusty roads and the hill to the cross -[5930.18 --> 5934.94] How beautiful are -[5937.94 --> 5944.94] How beautiful -[5944.94 --> 5954.94] How beautiful is the body of Christ -[5954.94 --> 5967.94] How beautiful the heart that I've had -[5967.94 --> 5974.94] That took all my sin and bore it in sin -[5974.94 --> 5987.94] How beautiful the tender eyes that chose to form Him and never did -[5987.94 --> 5988.94] To be so beautiful -[5988.94 --> 5994.94] How beautiful -[5994.94 --> 6001.94] How beautiful is the body of Christ -[6001.94 --> 6012.94] How beautiful is the body of Christ -[6012.94 --> 6019.94] And as He laid down His blood -[6019.94 --> 6025.94] We offer this sacrifice -[6025.94 --> 6032.94] That He will live -[6032.94 --> 6033.94] How beautiful is the body of Christ -[6033.94 --> 6034.94] How beautiful is the body of Christ -[6034.94 --> 6035.94] And as He died -[6035.94 --> 6039.94] Willing to pay the price -[6039.94 --> 6046.94] Willing to pay the price -[6046.94 --> 6047.94] How beautiful is the body of Christ -[6047.94 --> 6051.94] How beautiful is the body of Christ -[6051.94 --> 6065.48] Oh beautiful, the radiant bright, the weight's your own room with this light in your eyes. -[6065.48 --> 6079.98] Oh beautiful, and humble hearts dear, the fruit of your lives so that others can live. -[6079.98 --> 6103.98] Oh beautiful, oh beautiful, oh beautiful, it's the body of Christ. -[6109.98 --> 6114.98] God Almighty. -[6114.98 --> 6144.96] piano plays softly -[6144.98 --> 6154.98] Lord, what love is this that pays so dearly? -[6156.36 --> 6167.98] And I, the guilty one, made one way. -[6167.98 --> 6180.98] Amazing love, oh what sacrifice the Son of God is giving for me. -[6180.98 --> 6200.98] My daddy days and my daddy times, that I'm my place, that I'm my end. -[6200.98 --> 6218.22] And so they watched and died, despised, rejected. -[6218.22 --> 6232.22] But all the money's share, bought for me. -[6232.22 --> 6245.22] Amazing love, oh what sacrifice the Son of God gives for me. -[6245.22 --> 6258.22] My dad he days and my dad he dies, that I'm my place. -[6258.22 --> 6283.22] And now this love of Christ shall flow like rivers. -[6283.22 --> 6290.22] Come wash your guilt away. -[6290.22 --> 6300.22] May I give you a praise and love. -[6300.22 --> 6310.22] Oh what sacrifice the Son of God gives for me. -[6310.22 --> 6322.22] My daddy days and my death begun, that I'm my dream. -[6322.22 --> 6329.22] That I'm my man. -[6329.22 --> 6348.22] My daddy days and my death begun, that I'm my son of God. -[6348.22 --> 6378.20] I love you, Lord. -[6378.22 --> 6384.22] Oh, your mercy never fails me. -[6385.44 --> 6390.22] All my days I am held in your hand. -[6392.02 --> 6394.22] From the moment that I wake up, -[6395.74 --> 6398.48] until I lay in my head, -[6399.24 --> 6404.20] I will sing of the goodness of God. -[6404.20 --> 6411.20] All my life you have been faithful. -[6414.20 --> 6420.20] All my life you have been so, so good. -[6420.20 --> 6425.20] With every breath that I am made, -[6425.20 --> 6432.20] I will sing of the goodness of God. -[6432.20 --> 6440.08] I love your voice. -[6441.20 --> 6444.20] You have led me through the fire. -[6444.20 --> 6451.20] In the darkest night, you are close like no other. -[6452.20 --> 6454.20] I've known you as a father. -[6455.20 --> 6458.20] I've known you as a friend. -[6459.20 --> 6466.20] In the deepest night, you are close like no other. -[6466.20 --> 6468.20] No other joys or no other. -[6468.20 --> 6472.12] All my life you have been faithful. -[6474.52 --> 6481.28] All my life you have been so, so good. -[6481.28 --> 6492.64] With every breath that I am able, I will sing the goodness of God. -[6492.64 --> 6501.16] Your goodness is running after, it's running after me. -[6502.30 --> 6508.20] Your goodness is running after, it's running after me. -[6508.56 --> 6514.40] With my life laid down, I surrender now, I give you everything. -[6516.22 --> 6521.82] Your goodness is running after, it's running after me. -[6522.64 --> 6528.52] Your goodness is running after, it's running after me. -[6529.52 --> 6535.76] Your goodness is running after, it's running after me. -[6536.02 --> 6541.84] With my life laid down, I surrender now, I give you everything. -[6543.68 --> 6549.26] Your goodness is running after, it's running after me. -[6549.26 --> 6550.26] Your goodness is running after, it's running after me. -[6550.26 --> 6552.26] Your goodness is running after, it's running after me. -[6552.26 --> 6582.26] -[6582.26 --> 6583.26] Your goodness is running after, it's running after, it's running after, it's running after. -[6583.26 --> 6584.26] Your goodness is running after, it's running after. -[6584.26 --> 6585.26] I will sing of the goodness of God. -[6585.26 --> 6592.26] I will sing of the goodness of God. -[6592.26 --> 6593.26] Your goodness is running after, it's running after. -[6593.26 --> 6597.26] Your goodness is running after, it's running after. -[6597.26 --> 6627.24] Thank you. -[6627.26 --> 6657.24] Thank you. -[6657.26 --> 6659.26] Thank you. -[6687.26 --> 6689.26] Thank you. -[6717.26 --> 6719.26] Thank you. -[6747.26 --> 6749.26] Thank you. -[6749.26 --> 6751.26] Thank you. -[6751.26 --> 6753.26] Thank you. -[6753.26 --> 6755.26] Thank you. -[6755.26 --> 6757.26] Thank you. -[6757.26 --> 6759.26] Thank you. -[6759.26 --> 6761.26] Thank you. -[6761.26 --> 6763.26] Thank you. -[6763.26 --> 6765.26] Thank you. -[6765.26 --> 6767.26] Thank you. -[6767.26 --> 6773.26] Thank you. -[6773.26 --> 6777.60] Again and again -[6777.60 --> 6783.26] I call out to you -[6783.26 --> 6787.60] Again and again -[6787.60 --> 6793.28] You are my rock -[6793.28 --> 6797.30] In times of trouble -[6797.30 --> 6803.24] You lift me up -[6803.24 --> 6807.24] When I fall down -[6808.32 --> 6812.72] All through the storm -[6812.72 --> 6821.70] Your love is the anchor -[6821.70 --> 6830.24] My hope is in you alone -[6830.24 --> 6835.56] All through the storm -[6835.56 --> 6844.24] Your love is the anchor -[6844.24 --> 6854.24] My hope is in you alone -[6854.24 --> 6863.34] Before God's blessing, would you join your heart with mine in prayer together? Let's pray. -[6863.34 --> 6879.34] Amazing God, you come into our ordinary lives and set a holy table among us, filling our plates with the bread of life and our cups with your salvation. -[6879.34 --> 6899.34] Send us out, O God, with a tenderheartedness to touch an ordinary everyday world with the promise of your holiness and the surety of your extraordinary grace. In Jesus Christ we pray. Amen. -[6899.34 --> 6917.52] As you go into this week, God himself goes with you. Jesus himself speaks his voice of blessing and promise over you. Go with the blessing of God. -[6917.52 --> 6944.52] God go before you to guide you. God go behind you to guard you. God go beneath you to support you. And God go beside you to befriend you. Do not be afraid. Let the blessing of God come upon you today. Do not be afraid. But go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Amen. -[6944.52 --> 6945.52] Amen. -[6974.52 --> 6976.52] Amen. -[6976.52 --> 6977.52] Amen. -[6977.52 --> 6978.52] Amen. -[6978.52 --> 6979.52] Amen. -[6979.52 --> 6980.52] Amen. -[6980.64 --> 6981.52] Amen. -[6981.52 --> 6982.58] Amen. -[6982.58 --> 6982.96] Amen. -[6982.96 --> 6983.58] Amen. -[6983.58 --> 6985.28] Amen. -[6985.28 --> 6986.18] Amen. -[6986.18 --> 6987.14] Amen. -[6987.14 --> 6989.18] Amen. -[6989.18 --> 6993.20] Amen. -[6993.20 --> 6994.10] Amen. -[6994.10 --> 6997.26] Amen. -[6997.26 --> 7000.34] Amen. -[7002.28 --> 7004.34] Amen. -[7004.34 --> 7010.00] No more sickness, no injustice, no more help -[7010.00 --> 7016.38] Because of you, because of you -[7016.38 --> 7025.30] Because of your love, because of your blood -[7025.30 --> 7030.22] For our sins are washed away -[7030.22 --> 7034.14] And we will live forever -[7034.14 --> 7040.90] And now we have this hope because of you -[7040.90 --> 7046.20] Oh, we'll see you face to face -[7046.20 --> 7050.08] And we will dance forever -[7050.08 --> 7054.20] In the city of our God -[7054.20 --> 7056.20] Because of you -[7056.20 --> 7060.26] There is joy -[7060.26 --> 7066.02] There is joy everlasting -[7066.02 --> 7070.38] There is gladness, there is peace -[7070.38 --> 7074.60] There is wine overflowing -[7074.60 --> 7078.42] There is a wedding, there is a feast -[7078.42 --> 7080.36] Because of you -[7080.36 --> 7085.12] Because of you -[7085.12 --> 7089.12] Because of your love -[7089.12 --> 7093.84] Because of your blood -[7093.84 --> 7098.60] Oh, our sins are washed away -[7098.60 --> 7102.68] And we will live forever -[7102.68 --> 7109.44] Now we have this hope because of you -[7109.44 --> 7114.20] Oh, our sins are washed away -[7114.20 --> 7119.20] And we will dance together -[7119.20 --> 7125.96] And now we have this hope because of you -[7125.96 --> 7131.40] It above you -[7134.40 --> 7138.72] And we will rise -[7138.72 --> 7141.02] And there is be 하지 -[7141.02 --> 7171.00] Thank you. -[7171.02 --> 7201.00] Thank you. -[7201.02 --> 7231.00] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 19, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 19, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 510aa1caa2607392a70adb9de3e3c51cc1be99c9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 19, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,124 +0,0 @@ -• Faith and trust in God's love and promises -• Overcoming feelings of weakness and failure -• Singing of God's love and its impact on the heart -• Celebration and worship with a church community -• Announcements about upcoming events, including youth camp and professions of faith. -• Reminder about reacting and links in email inbox -• Upcoming annual general meeting on Sunday after worship -• Thanking members who attended the leaders and volunteer lunch -• Invitation to worship and prayer, with a focus on Psalm 103 and singing hymns -• Prayers for revival and restoration -• Praise and worship songs about God's love and redemption -• Personal testimonies of salvation and identity as a child of God -• Announcement of church budget and special offering for Open Door Canada -• Overview of Open Door Canada's mission and work in persecuted countries -• God's forgiveness and love for oppressors -• Challenges of isolation from God's word and the body of Christ under oppression -• Open Door Canada's work with persecuted Christians, including Bible supply and training -• Prayer request for persecuted brothers and sisters worldwide -• North America Indigenous Ministry budget appeal -• Song about Jesus' redemption and love -• Tribute to fathers on Father's Day -• Celebration of children graduating from children's worship program -• Discussion about someone missing (Linden) and sending a gift in the mail -• Congratulating people on making it through something -• Introducing a Bible as a gift for some individuals, and acknowledging Amy and Karis's work with the Children's Worship Time program -• Inviting teachers or parents of children involved in the program to come forward for prayer and laying hands -• Prayer for those who have been involved in faith formation in the lives of the kids -• Celebration of faith formation and the work of God in their midst -• Recognition of those who have poured into the lives of others making professions of faith -• Professions of faith from individuals, including Kaylee -• Discussion of understanding and believing in one's faith -• Graduation season, mentioned in passing -• The speaker has been growing in their faith through Bible studies and experiencing God's presence -• They attribute much of this growth to their youth leader, Samara, who helped them overcome fears and develop a deeper relationship with God -• A specific Bible verse, Philippians 4:6-7, has been a focus for the speaker in recent months and provides guidance on relying on God rather than themselves -• Growing up in a Christian family with evening devotions, Sunday school, and church attendance -• Struggling to remember stories from Sunday school, but recalling memory verses for candy prizes -• Feeling like a "good Christian" due to outward actions, but not experiencing inner connection with God -• Questioning the purpose of religious activities and feeling disconnected from God during grade 10 -• Finding spiritual clarity during the pandemic when stuck at home, allowing time for reflection on life and God's work in circumstances -• The speaker shares their personal story of how they developed a deeper love and understanding for God through reflection, questioning, and growth. -• COVID-19 pandemic created an opportunity for the speaker to slow down and focus on their faith. -• The speaker emphasizes the importance of learning more about God and leaning into their own spiritual journey. -• Kaylee is introduced as someone who has grown in her faith under the speaker's guidance as a youth leader, and the speaker expresses pride and happiness over her growth. -• The importance of leaning on Jesus during difficult times -• Trust in God's sovereignty and provision (Psalm 37:23-24) -• Jesus' constant presence and strength in times of struggle -• Nurturing a relationship with Christ through devotionals and Bible study -• Identity in Christ, crucified with Him (Galatians 2:20) -• A message of Jesus' love and the importance of putting one's identity in him -• A story about a specific moment where God was working in someone's life, as evidenced by an experience with a family home burning down -• Reflections on faith, the Bible, and trusting in God's plan -• Commendation for graduating from high school and professed faith, with excitement for the future and plans to attend Thompson River University -• Relationship with someone is changing but not ending -• Moving away to university and life changes ahead -• Encouragement to remember their faith foundation and continue leaning into it -• Blessing from Paul in 1 Corinthians 15:58 for standing firm in the Lord's work -• Welcoming new members into full covenant membership of the church family -• Baptism and God's promise -• Responsibility for the promise made at baptism -• Beliefs about Jesus Christ and the Bible -• Commitment to Christ, the church, and its authority -• Promising to strengthen love and commitment to Christ with the help of the Holy Spirit -• Joining with the people of God in doing the work of the Lord -• Blessing and prayer for congregation -• Acceptance of privileges and responsibilities of full membership -• Presentation of certificates marking new members -• Upcoming congregational meeting agenda -• Acknowledgment of people who have spoken into the lives of new members -• Laying of hands on individuals involved in their life at faith -• A prayer is given for James, Ruth, and Kaylee -• They are thanked for their service and faith development -• The congregation is asked to hold out their hands in offering a blessing -• A prayer is recited to God, thanking Him for His word and spirit -• Requests are made for the individuals to continue firmly in faith and be captivated by God's mystery and beauty -• They are taken under God's care and protection -• The congregation is encouraged to live together in the joy and power of the Holy Spirit -• A final prayer is given, followed by applause and congratulations -• The speaker expresses devotion and surrender to God's sovereignty -• The concept of "I am not my own" is repeated multiple times, emphasizing belonging to God -• The power and presence of the Holy Spirit are mentioned -• A family prayer is led by a member of Emmanuel, acknowledging God's presence and asking for His kingdom to come -• Baptisms or professions of faith are mentioned -• Ephesians scripture discussed as the basis for gratitude towards God's gift of salvation -• Graduates of Children's Worship Time program and grade 12 students celebrated -• Leadership positions within Emmanuel church discussed, with prayer for wisdom and guidance -• Father's Day observed and prayers offered for godly men in families -• Update on recent Synod meetings and challenges to unity in the denomination -• Grief and loss acknowledged, including Pastor John's passing and Louise Riesbos' death -• Prayers for healing touch and comfort for those suffering or grieving -• The importance of habits, particularly prayer, discussed as a way to resist temptation and seek God's will -• The transformative power of prayer that conforms believers into the image of Christ -• The purpose of 1 John 5:13-16 is for believers to know they have eternal life through prayer -• Prayer as a declaration of faith in God's promise of eternal life and confidence in approaching Him -• The Greek word "paratia" meaning frankness, boldness, and conviction in prayer -• The connection between prayer and confidence before God, including on judgment day -• The importance of prayer and its relationship to God's will -• Distinguishing between talking to Jesus vs. talking with Jesus in prayer -• The role of the Holy Spirit in interceding for believers when they don't know what to pray -• How praying according to God's will leads to receiving what is asked for -• Understanding that even if prayers are not answered as desired, God's good will remains -• The purpose of prayer as a means of unity with God in will and action -• The habit of praying in accordance with God's will -• The importance of surrendering to God's plan and letting go of personal desires -• The impact on daily worship, prayers, and interactions with Jesus -• Four ways this habit should affect us: - • Affecting our mindset and confidence in prayer - • Shaping what we pray for and aligning it with God's will - • Changing how we behave towards others and live out our faith - • Forming a habit through repetition and surrender to the Spirit's guidance -• The importance of recognizing God's promise of good will and eternal life for the whole body of Christ, not just individuals. -• The power of communal prayer and worship in seeing the effect on others and understanding God's desire for the broken and lost. -• Practical examples of how to live out this understanding in daily life, such as dedicating specific times to pray or worship God. -• The importance of forming a habit of prayer in one's life -• Rotating Prayer Group: a community-based approach to praying for others and being prayed for -• The value of consistent repetition in developing a deep and meaningful prayer practice -• The ultimate goal of praying "without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians) -• Examples of how prayer has been effective in addressing loneliness and apathy during the pandemic -• A prayer from someone, thanking God for the day, expressing gratitude, and asking for confidence in faith and eternal life. -• Prayer for God's blessing and protection -• Reference to a father figure and divine presence -• Reiteration of biblical blessings (e.g. "The Lord bless you", "Make His face shine upon you") -• Emphasis on God's favor and peace for the speaker and their family -• Repetition of the phrase "Amen" throughout the prayer \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 19, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 19, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f317e2d1a3468fb8143d3805e83407cb7127897b..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 19, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2454 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.94] You'll have every failure, God. You'll have every victory. -[11.18 --> 17.52] You say I am loved when I can't feel a thing. -[18.18 --> 23.96] You say I am strong when I think I am weak. -[23.96 --> 30.56] You say I am held when I am falling short. -[31.30 --> 37.22] When I don't belong, oh, you say I'm yours. -[38.28 --> 46.98] And I believe, oh, I believe what you say of me. -[46.98 --> 53.32] I believe, oh, I believe. -[54.32 --> 60.36] Yes, I believe what you say of me. -[60.82 --> 62.62] I believe. -[62.62 --> 92.60] I believe. -[92.62 --> 93.62] I believe. -[93.62 --> 95.62] I believe. -[95.62 --> 97.62] I believe. -[97.62 --> 99.62] I believe. -[99.62 --> 100.62] I believe. -[100.62 --> 102.62] I believe. -[102.62 --> 104.62] I believe. -[104.62 --> 106.62] I believe. -[106.62 --> 107.62] I believe. -[107.62 --> 108.62] I believe. -[108.62 --> 111.62] I believe. -[111.62 --> 116.22] I will open up my heart and let the healer set me free. -[116.22 --> 126.12] I'm happy to be in the truth and I will daily lift my hands for I will always sing of when your love came down. -[126.12 --> 144.12] Yeah, I could sing of your love forever. -[144.12 --> 154.12] Oh, I will always sing of when your love came down. -[154.12 --> 157.12] Now and then in the love of me. -[157.12 --> 164.12] Over the mountains and the sea, your river runs with a life in me. -[164.12 --> 169.12] And I will open up my heart and let the healer set me free. -[169.12 --> 179.12] I'm happy to be in the truth and I will daily lift my hands for I will always sing of when your love came down. -[179.12 --> 184.12] Yeah, I could sing of your love forever. -[184.12 --> 190.12] I could sing of your love forever. -[190.12 --> 200.12] I could sing of your love forever. -[200.12 --> 205.12] I could sing of your love forever. -[205.12 --> 208.12] I could sing of your love forever. -[208.12 --> 213.12] I could sing of your love forever. -[213.12 --> 216.12] I could sing of your love forever. -[216.12 --> 220.12] I could sing of your love. -[220.12 --> 225.12] Oh, I feel like dancing. -[225.12 --> 228.12] Billy, it's foolishness I know, yeah. -[228.12 --> 231.12] Yeah, it's foolishness I know. -[231.12 --> 234.12] It's foolishness I know. -[234.12 --> 243.12] But when the world is singing like, they will dance with joy like we're dancing now. -[243.12 --> 269.28] I can sing up your love forever -[269.28 --> 272.12] I will sing of your love -[272.12 --> 278.18] I will sing of your love -[278.18 --> 283.82] I will sing of your love -[283.82 --> 288.20] I will sing -[299.28 --> 311.82] I will sing of your love -[311.82 --> 318.20] I will sing of your love -[318.20 --> 324.98] I will sing of your love -[324.98 --> 331.92] I can sing of your love forever. -[354.98 --> 384.96] I can sing of your love forever. -[384.98 --> 414.96] I can sing of your love forever. -[414.98 --> 444.96] I can sing of your love forever. -[444.96 --> 446.96] I can sing of your love forever. -[446.96 --> 450.96] I can sing of your love forever. -[450.96 --> 452.96] I can sing of your love forever. -[452.96 --> 454.96] I can sing of your love forever. -[454.96 --> 458.96] I can sing of your love forever. -[458.96 --> 464.96] I can sing of your love forever. -[464.96 --> 470.96] I can sing of your love forever. -[470.96 --> 472.96] I can sing of your love forever. -[472.96 --> 474.96] I can sing of your love forever. -[474.96 --> 476.96] I can sing of your love forever. -[476.96 --> 478.96] I can sing of your love forever. -[478.96 --> 480.96] I can sing of your love forever. -[480.96 --> 482.96] I can sing of your love forever. -[482.96 --> 486.96] I can sing of your love forever. -[486.96 --> 492.96] I can sing of your love forever. -[492.96 --> 494.96] I can sing of your love forever. -[494.96 --> 496.96] I can sing of your love forever. -[496.96 --> 500.96] I can sing of your love forever. -[500.96 --> 508.96] i can sing ah, i can sing of your love forever. -[508.96 --> 510.96] You can sing of your love forever. -[510.96 --> 520.30] Good morning. How are you? I'm great. How are you? I'm doing very well. -[523.54 --> 531.96] Good morning. How are we all doing? Sounds like there's a lot of excitement in the room this -[531.96 --> 539.80] morning. We are so glad to have you here with us and to join together to worship our God. If -[539.80 --> 544.62] you're visiting with us this morning, my name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors here, -[545.40 --> 551.98] and I, along with a few others, will be leading in worship this morning. This is a special service -[551.98 --> 558.94] in the life of our church as we are celebrating the grade four graduation out of children's worship -[558.94 --> 575.46] time and three professions of faith. Three. All right. Oh, see, you got some applause. Nice work. -[577.04 --> 582.50] So we are excited to celebrate, and we are grateful to God for his faithfulness to us as church -[582.50 --> 589.86] and to our members here that we can see that happening together. If you are visiting with us -[589.86 --> 594.88] and you'd like to connect, there are these connect cards that are available. They're on the desk in -[594.88 --> 600.60] the foyer back there, or there's a digital version. You can scan with your phone, the QR code, and fill -[600.60 --> 605.92] that out, and that gives us a chance to connect with you, maybe to meet for prayer or to answer -[605.92 --> 610.84] some questions you have, and we would love to do that. Before we begin, there are just a couple -[610.84 --> 618.82] announcements we want to make. First of all, youth, you need to, or you are encouraged to sign up for -[618.82 --> 625.16] youth camp and for reactivate, and links for all of that are in your email inbox, and so you can -[625.16 --> 629.70] follow up with that. If you have any questions, you can grab Pastor Kevin, and he will address them for -[629.70 --> 639.56] you. Also, next week Sunday, after our worship together, if you are a member of our church over a -[639.56 --> 646.86] meeting, we are having an annual general meeting to approve the 2021 financials and the slate for -[646.86 --> 651.98] office bearers. So we're going to do that after service together, so please stick around following -[651.98 --> 660.06] that. The details about that are in your e-bulletins as well. And finally, I just want to say thank you -[660.06 --> 664.82] once again to everyone who came out to the leaders and volunteer lunch that we had yesterday. -[664.82 --> 671.44] There was 40 or so of us representing only a fraction of the people who are really active and -[671.44 --> 676.58] who make this church happen, but we had a great day together, and it was a lot of fun. And so I'm -[676.58 --> 682.16] grateful for all of you and for your willingness to come out and to be silly together and play games -[682.16 --> 688.22] and be encouraged in our shared ministry. I hope and pray that you were also encouraged. -[688.22 --> 694.00] We're going to worship God this morning in song and in prayer and in word, and so I'm going to invite -[694.00 --> 700.00] you, as you're able, to stand. We can be called into worship and greeted by our God this morning. -[704.68 --> 714.18] And so receive the greeting of our good God. Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God, -[714.18 --> 720.48] our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ through the presence and power of his Holy Spirit. Amen. -[725.80 --> 729.78] Of Psalm 103, call us into worship this morning where it says, -[730.18 --> 734.90] Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name. -[735.38 --> 738.54] Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, -[738.54 --> 744.26] who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, -[744.60 --> 749.22] who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy. Let's sing those words now. -[749.22 --> 769.94] Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless the Lord, O my soul, -[769.94 --> 777.60] bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless the Lord, O my soul, -[777.60 --> 787.48] worship his holy name. Sing like never before, -[787.48 --> 796.32] O my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[796.32 --> 815.00] The sun comes up, it's a new day dawning, it's time to sing your song again. -[815.00 --> 823.48] Whatever may pass, whatever may pass, and whatever lies before me, -[823.48 --> 831.88] let me be singing when the evening comes. -[834.88 --> 842.08] Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, -[842.08 --> 847.08] Worship his holy name. -[847.08 --> 847.76] Worship his holy name. -[847.76 --> 851.96] Sing like never before, -[851.96 --> 860.76] O my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[860.76 --> 861.76] Your holy name. -[861.76 --> 866.64] Your holy name. -[866.64 --> 867.64] Your holy name. -[867.64 --> 868.64] Your holy name. -[868.64 --> 874.64] Your holy name is great and your heart is mine. -[874.64 --> 881.64] For all your goodness I will keep on singing. -[881.64 --> 894.52] Ten thousand reasons for my heart to find. -[894.52 --> 899.52] God bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, -[899.52 --> 904.52] Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, -[904.52 --> 909.52] Worship his holy name. -[909.52 --> 910.52] Your holy name. -[910.52 --> 916.52] Sing like never before, O my soul, -[916.52 --> 921.52] O my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[921.52 --> 922.52] Sing like never before, O my soul, -[922.52 --> 929.52] O my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[929.52 --> 936.52] And on that day when my strength is failing, -[936.52 --> 942.52] The end draws near and my time has come. -[942.52 --> 950.52] Still my soul will sing your praise on ending. -[950.52 --> 962.52] Ten thousand years and forevermore. -[962.52 --> 969.52] Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, -[969.52 --> 975.52] Worship his holy name. -[975.52 --> 980.52] Sing like never before, O my soul, -[980.52 --> 988.52] O my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[988.52 --> 996.52] Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, -[996.52 --> 1002.52] Worship his holy name. -[1002.52 --> 1007.52] Sing like never before, O my soul, -[1007.52 --> 1017.52] O my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[1017.52 --> 1024.52] I'll worship your holy name. -[1024.52 --> 1029.52] Lord, I'll worship your holy name. -[1029.52 --> 1041.52] Please join me in prayer. -[1041.52 --> 1045.52] Father, we come to you broken and needy. -[1045.52 --> 1048.52] Have mercy on us. -[1048.52 --> 1051.52] We have failed to be faithful to you again this week. -[1051.52 --> 1053.52] We have not been loving. -[1053.52 --> 1054.52] We have not been pure. -[1054.52 --> 1057.52] We have not been forgiving. -[1057.52 --> 1062.52] Breathe on us again, Lord, with a life that only you can give. -[1062.52 --> 1066.52] Help us to be in awe of you, of who you are, -[1066.52 --> 1071.52] And help us to be grateful for what you do in our lives again and again. -[1071.52 --> 1072.52] We love you, Lord. -[1072.52 --> 1076.52] Thank you for your love, your mercy, and your grace. -[1076.52 --> 1077.52] Amen. -[1077.52 --> 1078.52] Amen. -[1078.52 --> 1080.52] Amen. -[1080.52 --> 1083.52] Thank you for listening to this year. -[1083.52 --> 1088.52] I wish I haderst New Testament. -[1088.52 --> 1093.52] We love you. -[1093.52 --> 1095.52] Thank you for listening to thisah woodstand, -[1095.52 --> 1096.52] To thisah woodstand, -[1096.52 --> 1097.52] My clothesthand july, -[1097.52 --> 1099.10] and 입 by road now. -[1099.10 --> 1101.52] We will be sizin forever CDU's night. -[1101.52 --> 1102.52] Isaiah Comoers 1, -[1102.52 --> 1104.68] We will be able to fight reject bread through kindness. -[1104.68 --> 1112.54] O Lord, hear. -[1114.94 --> 1121.24] O Lord, forgive us. -[1121.24 --> 1128.34] We have lost the awe of you. -[1128.34 --> 1135.34] Have mercy, have mercy. -[1137.80 --> 1143.96] O Lord, cleanse. -[1143.96 --> 1149.96] Our hearts which are divided -[1149.96 --> 1157.48] stir the faith that we once knew. -[1157.48 --> 1164.48] With thirsty, with thirsty. -[1164.48 --> 1180.90] O Lord, restore the church that bears your name. -[1180.90 --> 1193.90] O Spirit, send the revival to this nation. -[1193.90 --> 1200.90] Breathe on us again. -[1200.90 --> 1207.90] Breathe on us again. -[1207.90 --> 1209.90] Amen. -[1209.90 --> 1210.90] Amen. -[1210.90 --> 1211.90] Amen. -[1211.90 --> 1214.90] Amen. -[1214.90 --> 1220.90] O Lord, hear. -[1220.90 --> 1227.90] O Lord, forgive us. -[1227.90 --> 1234.90] We have lost the awe of you. -[1234.90 --> 1237.90] We have lost the awe of you. -[1237.90 --> 1241.90] We have lost the awe of you. -[1241.90 --> 1245.90] We have lost the awe of you. -[1245.90 --> 1246.60] God free. -[1249.90 --> 1250.90] We have lost the awe of you. -[1250.90 --> 1256.90] We have lost the awe of you. -[1256.90 --> 1263.98] To the faith that we once knew -[1263.98 --> 1270.94] We're thirsty, we're thirsty -[1270.94 --> 1277.86] Oh Lord, restore -[1277.86 --> 1285.42] The church that bears your name -[1285.42 --> 1291.82] Oh, Spirit, send -[1291.82 --> 1298.86] A revival to this nation -[1298.86 --> 1304.60] Breathe on us again -[1304.60 --> 1311.70] Breathe on us again -[1311.70 --> 1318.70] Oh Lord, restore -[1318.70 --> 1328.52] The church that bears your name -[1328.52 --> 1334.92] Oh, Spirit, send -[1334.92 --> 1341.92] A revival to this nation -[1341.92 --> 1349.92] Breathe on us again -[1349.92 --> 1356.92] Breathe on us again -[1356.92 --> 1363.92] Breathe on us again -[1363.92 --> 1365.92] Wie like of today -[1365.92 --> 1390.92] � -[1393.92 --> 1397.90] I was lost, but He brought me. -[1398.32 --> 1401.64] Who is love for me? -[1402.32 --> 1406.58] Who is love for me? -[1406.58 --> 1410.86] Through the sun sets me, -[1411.58 --> 1414.58] no words free indeed. -[1415.86 --> 1419.48] I'm a child of God. -[1419.92 --> 1422.86] Yes, I am. -[1423.92 --> 1428.90] Free at last He has ransomed me. -[1429.26 --> 1432.32] His grace was free. -[1433.82 --> 1437.54] While I was a slave to sin, -[1437.66 --> 1441.22] Jesus died for me. -[1441.60 --> 1445.32] Yes, He died for me. -[1446.40 --> 1449.92] Who the sun sets free, -[1449.92 --> 1454.58] for it's free in me. -[1454.90 --> 1458.82] I'm a child of God. -[1458.82 --> 1462.32] Yes, I am. -[1462.32 --> 1467.62] In my Father's house, -[1467.62 --> 1471.54] there's a place for me. -[1471.54 --> 1476.14] I'm a child of God. -[1476.14 --> 1479.38] Yes, I am. -[1480.44 --> 1484.96] I am chosen, not forsaken. -[1484.96 --> 1489.28] I am who you say I am. -[1489.94 --> 1494.26] You are for me, not against me. -[1494.86 --> 1498.12] I am who you say I am. -[1498.12 --> 1506.72] I am who you say I am. -[1506.72 --> 1511.52] You are for me, not against me. -[1511.52 --> 1512.52] I am who you say I am. -[1512.52 --> 1514.52] I am who you say I am. -[1514.52 --> 1518.52] Yes, I am who you say I am. -[1518.52 --> 1523.52] The sun sets free. -[1523.52 --> 1527.96] Oh, it's free indeed. -[1529.10 --> 1532.90] I'm a child of God. -[1533.26 --> 1535.76] Yes, I am. -[1537.50 --> 1545.62] In my Father's house, there's a place for me. -[1545.62 --> 1549.88] I'm a child of God. -[1550.30 --> 1552.62] Yes, I am. -[1553.52 --> 1563.04] In my Father's house, there's a place for me. -[1563.60 --> 1567.56] I'm a child of God. -[1568.18 --> 1571.66] Yes, I am. -[1571.66 --> 1575.70] I'm a child of God. -[1575.70 --> 1577.70] Yes, I am. -[1577.70 --> 1579.74] I'm a child of God. -[1579.74 --> 1605.38] Good morning. -[1605.38 --> 1606.38] Good morning. -[1606.38 --> 1609.02] My name is Emo, and I'm a deacon at Emanuel. -[1610.14 --> 1613.84] We continue our worship this morning with the giving of our gifts. -[1613.84 --> 1619.84] First of all, for the budget, which covers the administration and ministries of the church. -[1620.88 --> 1624.34] And the special offering is Open Door Canada. -[1624.34 --> 1632.62] For more than 65 years, Open Door Canada has worked in the world's most oppressive and restrictive countries, -[1633.30 --> 1642.66] strengthening Christians to stand strong in the face of persecution and equipping them to shine Christ's light in these places. -[1642.66 --> 1652.58] When Christians are strengthened in the Lord, they begin to demonstrate God's forgiveness and reach out in love even to their oppressors. -[1652.58 --> 1662.08] One of the greatest challenges to Christians living under oppression is isolation from God's word and from the body of Christ. -[1662.08 --> 1665.90] In 1 Corinthians 12, verse 26, it says, -[1666.42 --> 1669.14] If one member suffers, all suffer together. -[1669.88 --> 1673.14] If one member is honored, all rejoice together. -[1674.10 --> 1680.50] Open Door Canada empowers persecuted Christians by supplying Bibles and Christian literature, -[1681.26 --> 1686.46] training for Christian leaders, facilitating social and economic projects, -[1686.46 --> 1695.34] and uniting believers in the West in prayer for Christians who are the most persecuted religious group in the world -[1695.34 --> 1698.66] and are oppressed in at least 70 countries. -[1699.66 --> 1706.12] Please remember in prayer our persecuted brothers and sisters, wherever they are in the world, and give generously. -[1707.22 --> 1714.26] Next week's offering is for the budget and name, North America Indigenous Ministry. -[1716.46 --> 1722.36] This song will likely be new to some of you, so just listen if you'd like or join in if you're comfortable. -[1722.36 --> 1752.34] I was lost in sin. -[1752.34 --> 1782.32] I was lost in sin. -[1782.32 --> 1784.32] I was lost in sin. -[1784.32 --> 1787.32] Held captive by my fear. -[1787.32 --> 1790.32] Till your mercy showed. -[1790.32 --> 1793.32] Your hand was reaching near. -[1793.32 --> 1798.32] My God, you came and made a way for me. -[1798.32 --> 1803.32] You made a way for me. -[1803.32 --> 1819.10] My Jesus, gracious Redeemer and friend, there's nothing like your love without end. -[1819.10 --> 1831.10] My hope was purchased by the blood of the Lamb, my Jesus, Redeemer. -[1831.10 --> 1844.88] Your life and self- chime in art. -[1845.10 --> 1846.10] His death, you trampled over sin. -[1846.10 --> 1856.86] death you trampled over sin you're the risen king you're coming back again -[1856.86 --> 1868.66] oh god you came and made a way for us you made a way for us -[1868.66 --> 1881.02] my jesus gracious redeemer and friend there's nothing like your love without end -[1881.02 --> 1890.14] my hope is purchased by the blood of the man my jesus -[1890.14 --> 1893.18] redeemer -[1893.18 --> 1920.18] no guilt no shame no curse no chains new life you gave redeemer -[1920.18 --> 1932.18] no guilt no shame no curse no chains new life you gave redeemer -[1932.18 --> 1944.18] no guilt no shame no curse no chains new life you gave redeemer -[1944.18 --> 1956.18] my jesus gracious redeemer and friend there's nothing like your love without end -[1956.18 --> 1970.18] my jesus gracious redeemer and friend there's nothing like your love without end -[1970.18 --> 1982.18] my jesus -[1982.18 --> 1994.18] my jesus -[1994.18 --> 1996.18] my jesus -[1996.18 --> 2010.18] my jesus -[2010.18 --> 2012.18] jesus -[2012.18 --> 2014.18] jesus -[2014.18 --> 2018.18] jesus -[2018.18 --> 2022.18] jesus -[2022.18 --> 2036.18] jesus -[2036.18 --> 2038.18] jesus -[2038.18 --> 2040.18] jesus -[2040.18 --> 2042.18] jesus -[2042.18 --> 2044.18] jesus -[2044.18 --> 2046.18] jesus -[2046.18 --> 2051.18] jesus -[2051.18 --> 2054.18] jesus -[2054.18 --> 2056.18] myself -[2056.18 --> 2058.18] right -[2058.18 --> 2060.18] now -[2060.18 --> 2064.18] it's -[2064.18 --> 2065.18] me -[2065.18 --> 2066.18] the -[2066.18 --> 2067.18] e -[2067.18 --> 2068.10] r -[2068.18 --> 2069.18] the -[2069.18 --> 2070.18] own -[2070.18 --> 2074.26] so to you fathers among us -[2074.26 --> 2077.08] thank you for being among us -[2077.08 --> 2080.32] thank you for the ways that you model Christ and his love -[2080.32 --> 2082.02] for the church, to your families -[2082.02 --> 2085.68] for those of us who are missing fathers on this day -[2085.68 --> 2088.08] or who long to be fathers on this day -[2088.08 --> 2091.12] our hearts and our prayers are with you as well -[2091.12 --> 2094.28] and so regardless of what this day holds for you -[2094.28 --> 2097.20] I pray that in this community -[2097.20 --> 2098.68] you are blessed -[2098.68 --> 2101.48] and that by this time together -[2101.48 --> 2103.34] and for whatever the rest of the day holds -[2103.34 --> 2106.98] that you will know the love of our God and Father in Heaven -[2106.98 --> 2109.40] we're going to take a moment -[2109.40 --> 2113.72] and celebrate with the grade 4 kids -[2113.72 --> 2116.64] who are finishing their season -[2116.64 --> 2118.80] in children's worship time -[2118.80 --> 2123.14] children's worship time is our young kids ministry -[2123.14 --> 2125.20] they go out, they worship together -[2125.20 --> 2127.14] in the multi-purpose room, hear a story -[2127.14 --> 2129.08] and then they break up into classes -[2129.08 --> 2131.20] and learn about Jesus -[2131.20 --> 2133.44] and what it means to live for him -[2133.44 --> 2136.48] and at grade 4 -[2136.48 --> 2139.10] they graduate out of that program -[2139.10 --> 2140.24] and so -[2140.24 --> 2142.00] I'm going to invite -[2142.00 --> 2144.56] in no particular order -[2144.56 --> 2145.18] Nora -[2145.18 --> 2147.10] and Eden -[2147.10 --> 2147.80] and Ali -[2147.80 --> 2148.44] and Atlee -[2148.44 --> 2149.02] and Linden -[2149.02 --> 2149.68] and Cole -[2149.68 --> 2151.16] and Hilda -[2151.16 --> 2152.70] are you here with us today? -[2152.82 --> 2153.56] Hilda Murad -[2153.56 --> 2154.70] is she with us today? -[2155.66 --> 2157.38] She is also graduating -[2157.38 --> 2158.88] the Murad family -[2158.88 --> 2160.24] is a refugee family -[2160.24 --> 2161.00] that we sponsored -[2161.00 --> 2162.60] and they worship -[2162.60 --> 2164.90] elsewhere -[2164.90 --> 2166.26] but sometimes are here with us -[2166.26 --> 2166.50] anyway -[2166.50 --> 2167.64] we are marking her -[2167.64 --> 2168.52] too -[2168.52 --> 2169.84] alright -[2169.84 --> 2170.58] was that everyone? -[2170.90 --> 2171.30] I see -[2171.30 --> 2174.22] we are missing someone -[2174.22 --> 2175.22] Linden -[2175.22 --> 2175.88] Linden -[2175.88 --> 2177.98] Linden's not here today -[2177.98 --> 2178.24] alright -[2178.24 --> 2180.08] we will send his gift in the mail -[2180.08 --> 2182.04] alright -[2182.04 --> 2182.42] so -[2182.42 --> 2183.58] guys -[2183.58 --> 2184.54] congratulations -[2184.54 --> 2186.84] on making it through -[2186.84 --> 2188.08] and -[2188.08 --> 2189.34] I am really excited -[2189.34 --> 2190.16] to see you -[2190.16 --> 2191.92] worshipping with us -[2191.92 --> 2193.34] in the big church -[2193.34 --> 2194.70] oh man -[2194.70 --> 2195.82] now you have to listen to me -[2195.82 --> 2197.70] sorry -[2197.70 --> 2202.08] you'd rather listen to me -[2202.08 --> 2203.16] than go to Sunday school -[2203.16 --> 2204.58] you are now my favorite Ali -[2204.58 --> 2208.68] and so to mark this day -[2208.68 --> 2209.30] we have -[2209.30 --> 2211.44] a gift of a Bible for you -[2211.44 --> 2211.94] they're -[2211.94 --> 2213.52] individually addressed -[2213.52 --> 2214.94] so make sure you hand them out -[2214.94 --> 2216.12] appropriately please ladies -[2216.12 --> 2217.32] Amy and Karis -[2217.32 --> 2218.50] have been coordinating -[2218.50 --> 2220.04] the Children's Worship Time program -[2220.04 --> 2221.32] and so -[2221.32 --> 2222.76] we are grateful for their work -[2222.76 --> 2223.76] and grateful for -[2223.76 --> 2224.86] the countless -[2224.86 --> 2225.80] many of you -[2225.80 --> 2226.96] who have been involved -[2226.96 --> 2228.02] in introducing -[2228.02 --> 2229.14] and -[2229.14 --> 2230.86] introducing these kids to Jesus -[2230.86 --> 2232.16] and sharing the love of God -[2232.16 --> 2232.64] for them -[2232.64 --> 2236.32] we're going to mark -[2236.32 --> 2237.04] that -[2237.04 --> 2237.74] countless -[2237.74 --> 2238.70] many of you -[2238.70 --> 2239.36] and so -[2239.36 --> 2239.96] guys -[2239.96 --> 2241.22] I'm going to ask you to come over here -[2241.22 --> 2241.82] to the middle -[2241.82 --> 2243.80] because we want to make sure -[2243.80 --> 2245.36] the camera can find you appropriately -[2245.36 --> 2247.00] and then -[2247.00 --> 2248.44] I want to take a chance -[2248.44 --> 2249.14] and invite -[2249.14 --> 2249.94] anyone -[2249.94 --> 2251.36] who has been a teacher -[2251.36 --> 2252.70] to one of these -[2252.70 --> 2253.54] kids -[2253.54 --> 2255.10] in Children's Worship Time -[2255.10 --> 2255.42] or -[2255.42 --> 2256.46] a parent -[2256.46 --> 2258.62] to come on up to the front -[2258.62 --> 2259.86] we're going to pray for them -[2259.86 --> 2261.24] and lay hands -[2261.24 --> 2262.28] family members -[2262.28 --> 2264.22] if you have -[2264.22 --> 2265.14] in any -[2265.14 --> 2266.54] hands on way -[2266.54 --> 2267.80] no pun intended -[2267.80 --> 2268.54] been involved -[2268.54 --> 2269.56] in faith formation -[2269.56 --> 2270.78] in the lives of these kids -[2270.78 --> 2271.06] please -[2271.06 --> 2272.04] come up now -[2272.04 --> 2272.58] to the front -[2272.58 --> 2273.56] and we will -[2273.56 --> 2274.72] pray over them -[2274.72 --> 2275.86] you guys take a step forward -[2275.86 --> 2277.48] so people can go all around -[2277.48 --> 2278.18] there you go -[2283.54 --> 2304.86] all right if you can reach out a hand -[2304.86 --> 2306.46] if not just put it on the shoulder -[2306.46 --> 2307.54] of the person in front of you -[2307.54 --> 2309.40] we'll make a chain of the spirit -[2309.40 --> 2310.06] and we'll -[2310.06 --> 2311.04] lay hands -[2311.04 --> 2312.18] and pray -[2312.18 --> 2312.74] let's -[2312.74 --> 2314.02] pray together -[2314.02 --> 2316.66] holy God -[2316.66 --> 2316.90] we -[2316.90 --> 2318.42] thank you -[2318.42 --> 2319.58] for your faithfulness -[2319.58 --> 2321.08] we thank you -[2321.08 --> 2321.46] for the way -[2321.46 --> 2322.36] that you have already -[2322.36 --> 2323.56] revealed yourself -[2323.56 --> 2324.62] to these -[2324.62 --> 2326.58] grade four -[2326.58 --> 2327.06] kids -[2327.06 --> 2327.70] among us -[2327.70 --> 2328.90] we pray that you would -[2328.90 --> 2330.20] continue to stir -[2330.20 --> 2332.14] love for you -[2332.14 --> 2332.66] in them -[2332.66 --> 2333.98] continue to -[2333.98 --> 2335.32] open their eyes -[2335.32 --> 2336.10] to your beauty -[2336.10 --> 2336.86] and majesty -[2336.86 --> 2338.12] and continue -[2338.12 --> 2339.06] to use us -[2339.06 --> 2340.20] Emmanuel Church -[2340.20 --> 2341.98] to foster faith -[2341.98 --> 2342.90] in them -[2342.90 --> 2344.28] bless them -[2344.28 --> 2345.58] and keep them -[2345.58 --> 2346.92] make your face -[2346.92 --> 2347.72] shine upon them -[2347.72 --> 2348.78] and be gracious to them -[2348.78 --> 2350.34] turn your face -[2350.34 --> 2351.68] toward them each -[2351.68 --> 2353.06] that they may know -[2353.06 --> 2353.72] your -[2353.72 --> 2354.70] peace -[2354.70 --> 2356.54] and all God's people said -[2356.54 --> 2357.78] amen -[2357.78 --> 2359.00] amen -[2359.00 --> 2360.88] congratulations guys -[2360.88 --> 2363.30] in just a moment -[2363.30 --> 2364.84] you're gonna go -[2364.84 --> 2366.54] later on -[2366.54 --> 2367.00] in the service -[2367.00 --> 2367.74] to children's worship -[2367.74 --> 2368.02] time -[2368.02 --> 2368.90] one more time -[2368.90 --> 2369.26] but I think -[2369.26 --> 2369.64] Mr. Eric -[2369.64 --> 2370.30] wants a photo -[2370.30 --> 2372.22] grad photo -[2372.22 --> 2372.76] this is -[2372.76 --> 2374.00] graduation season -[2374.00 --> 2375.72] this is what it looks like -[2375.72 --> 2385.00] yeah -[2385.00 --> 2392.96] Eric -[2392.96 --> 2393.74] just because I wanted -[2393.74 --> 2394.50] to do due diligence -[2394.50 --> 2395.54] make sure that all of those -[2395.54 --> 2396.38] kids have signed photo -[2396.38 --> 2396.92] release forms -[2396.92 --> 2397.46] or their parents -[2397.46 --> 2398.02] have signed photo -[2398.02 --> 2398.56] release forms -[2398.56 --> 2399.30] got it -[2399.30 --> 2401.50] okay -[2401.50 --> 2403.32] we are going to -[2403.32 --> 2404.82] continue -[2404.82 --> 2406.02] in celebration -[2406.02 --> 2407.36] of faith formation -[2407.36 --> 2408.00] and the work -[2408.00 --> 2408.84] that God is doing -[2408.84 --> 2409.44] in our midst -[2409.44 --> 2409.92] as we -[2409.92 --> 2411.94] profess faith -[2411.94 --> 2412.58] and hear some -[2412.58 --> 2413.80] professions of faith -[2413.80 --> 2414.88] now -[2414.88 --> 2416.32] as we do that -[2416.32 --> 2416.96] we recognize -[2416.96 --> 2417.66] that a number -[2417.66 --> 2418.28] of people -[2418.28 --> 2419.62] have poured -[2419.62 --> 2420.76] into the lives -[2420.76 --> 2421.24] of those -[2421.24 --> 2422.02] who will stand -[2422.02 --> 2422.74] before us -[2422.74 --> 2423.12] today -[2423.12 --> 2423.70] and so -[2423.70 --> 2424.14] we are going -[2424.14 --> 2424.70] to hear -[2424.70 --> 2425.68] from those -[2425.68 --> 2426.44] making profession -[2426.44 --> 2426.88] of faith -[2426.88 --> 2427.94] as well as -[2427.94 --> 2429.26] from their -[2429.26 --> 2430.06] mentors -[2430.06 --> 2430.50] or people -[2430.50 --> 2430.80] who have -[2430.80 --> 2431.76] spoken -[2431.76 --> 2432.44] Jesus -[2432.44 --> 2433.08] into -[2433.08 --> 2434.10] their life -[2434.10 --> 2434.70] and so -[2434.70 --> 2436.40] at this point -[2436.40 --> 2437.96] I'm gonna invite -[2437.96 --> 2438.44] Kaylee -[2438.44 --> 2439.38] to come up -[2439.38 --> 2439.92] to the front -[2439.92 --> 2440.44] she's gonna -[2440.44 --> 2441.88] go first -[2441.88 --> 2443.74] Kaylee -[2443.74 --> 2445.32] Kaylee -[2445.32 --> 2446.30] you sit down -[2446.30 --> 2446.64] you'll get -[2446.64 --> 2447.10] invited up -[2447.10 --> 2447.50] to the front -[2447.50 --> 2448.22] in just a moment -[2448.22 --> 2449.80] you go sit -[2449.80 --> 2450.20] with Nora -[2450.20 --> 2450.86] perfect -[2450.86 --> 2451.98] all right -[2451.98 --> 2452.30] Kaylee -[2452.30 --> 2452.50] here -[2452.50 --> 2453.16] this is for you -[2453.16 --> 2453.48] do you want -[2453.48 --> 2453.82] to hold it -[2453.82 --> 2463.62] okay -[2463.62 --> 2464.68] so for my -[2464.68 --> 2465.18] whole life -[2465.18 --> 2465.76] I have grown -[2465.76 --> 2466.12] up in a -[2466.12 --> 2466.80] Christian home -[2466.80 --> 2467.14] and have -[2467.14 --> 2467.46] gone to -[2467.46 --> 2467.76] church -[2467.76 --> 2468.44] however -[2468.44 --> 2468.92] I never -[2468.92 --> 2469.42] really -[2469.42 --> 2470.34] understood -[2470.34 --> 2470.64] what it -[2470.64 --> 2470.94] meant to -[2470.94 --> 2471.24] believe -[2471.24 --> 2471.92] I just -[2471.92 --> 2472.30] prayed -[2472.30 --> 2473.42] before bed -[2473.42 --> 2473.80] and prayed -[2473.80 --> 2474.34] at meals -[2474.34 --> 2474.90] and went -[2474.90 --> 2475.34] to church -[2475.34 --> 2476.88] a couple -[2476.88 --> 2477.38] years ago -[2477.38 --> 2477.64] when we -[2477.64 --> 2478.06] started getting -[2478.06 --> 2478.36] deeper -[2478.36 --> 2478.90] into youth -[2478.90 --> 2479.84] I began -[2479.84 --> 2480.40] digging deeper -[2480.40 --> 2480.74] in what it -[2480.74 --> 2481.06] means to -[2481.06 --> 2481.66] follow Christ -[2481.66 --> 2483.38] I've done -[2483.38 --> 2483.68] a couple -[2483.68 --> 2484.04] of Bible -[2484.04 --> 2484.34] studies -[2484.34 --> 2484.70] over the -[2484.70 --> 2485.18] past couple -[2485.18 --> 2485.52] years -[2485.52 --> 2485.90] and I -[2485.90 --> 2486.48] learned more -[2486.48 --> 2486.92] not only -[2486.92 --> 2487.46] about God -[2487.46 --> 2487.76] but what -[2487.76 --> 2488.14] my faith -[2488.14 --> 2488.68] looks like -[2488.68 --> 2489.56] I realized -[2489.56 --> 2490.00] that I do -[2490.00 --> 2490.56] believe what -[2490.56 --> 2490.84] I've been -[2490.84 --> 2491.40] taught growing -[2491.40 --> 2491.90] up because -[2491.90 --> 2492.44] everything -[2492.44 --> 2493.16] that I've -[2493.16 --> 2493.54] read in my -[2493.54 --> 2494.18] Bible studies -[2494.18 --> 2494.64] have made -[2494.64 --> 2495.02] sense -[2495.02 --> 2496.54] I've seen -[2496.54 --> 2497.04] God working -[2497.04 --> 2497.60] in my life -[2497.60 --> 2498.14] by the people -[2498.14 --> 2498.46] he has -[2498.46 --> 2498.86] blessed me -[2498.86 --> 2499.10] with -[2499.10 --> 2500.32] I've grown -[2500.32 --> 2500.82] so much -[2500.82 --> 2501.26] not only -[2501.26 --> 2501.84] as a person -[2501.84 --> 2502.38] but in my -[2502.38 --> 2502.94] faith because -[2502.94 --> 2503.34] of certain -[2503.34 --> 2503.68] people -[2503.68 --> 2504.58] specifically -[2504.58 --> 2505.02] my youth -[2505.02 --> 2505.20] leader -[2505.20 --> 2505.58] Samara -[2505.58 --> 2506.48] if it -[2506.48 --> 2506.66] weren't -[2506.66 --> 2507.06] for her -[2507.06 --> 2507.82] I wouldn't -[2507.82 --> 2508.24] have delved -[2508.24 --> 2508.70] as deeply -[2508.70 --> 2509.40] as I have -[2509.40 --> 2509.96] into putting -[2509.96 --> 2510.92] time and effort -[2510.92 --> 2511.48] into gaining -[2511.48 --> 2512.00] a relationship -[2512.00 --> 2512.56] with God -[2512.56 --> 2513.42] and I could -[2513.42 --> 2514.00] see how God -[2514.00 --> 2514.62] put her in my -[2514.62 --> 2515.22] life to help -[2515.22 --> 2515.62] me go to -[2515.62 --> 2516.16] Mexico on -[2516.16 --> 2516.54] the missions -[2516.54 --> 2516.84] trip -[2516.84 --> 2518.40] she helped -[2518.40 --> 2518.80] me get over -[2518.80 --> 2519.32] my fears -[2519.32 --> 2519.96] and anxieties -[2519.96 --> 2520.48] by helping -[2520.48 --> 2520.84] me learn -[2520.84 --> 2521.20] to rely -[2521.20 --> 2521.56] on God -[2521.56 --> 2521.84] more -[2521.84 --> 2522.22] and not -[2522.22 --> 2522.74] on myself -[2522.74 --> 2523.66] and a -[2523.66 --> 2524.12] Bible verse -[2524.12 --> 2524.36] that has -[2524.36 --> 2524.68] been my -[2524.68 --> 2524.98] focus -[2524.98 --> 2525.30] for the -[2525.30 --> 2526.08] past -[2526.08 --> 2526.44] several -[2526.44 --> 2526.74] months -[2526.74 --> 2526.98] is -[2526.98 --> 2527.38] Philippians -[2527.38 --> 2527.64] 4 -[2527.64 --> 2528.06] verse 6 -[2528.06 --> 2528.50] to 7 -[2528.50 --> 2529.52] which reads -[2529.52 --> 2530.14] do not be -[2530.14 --> 2530.66] anxious about -[2530.66 --> 2531.06] anything -[2531.06 --> 2531.58] but in -[2531.58 --> 2532.34] every situation -[2532.34 --> 2533.00] by prayer -[2533.00 --> 2533.50] and petition -[2533.50 --> 2534.50] with thanksgiving -[2534.50 --> 2535.50] present your -[2535.50 --> 2536.18] requests to -[2536.18 --> 2536.48] God -[2536.48 --> 2537.34] and the peace -[2537.34 --> 2537.76] of God -[2537.76 --> 2538.54] which transcends -[2538.54 --> 2539.36] all understanding -[2539.36 --> 2539.94] will guard -[2539.94 --> 2540.28] your hearts -[2540.28 --> 2540.66] and minds -[2540.66 --> 2541.06] in Christ -[2541.06 --> 2541.46] Jesus -[2541.46 --> 2549.64] Ruth -[2549.64 --> 2551.22] you're going -[2551.22 --> 2551.56] to come -[2551.56 --> 2552.22] now -[2552.22 --> 2552.66] and then -[2552.66 --> 2552.98] Samaria -[2552.98 --> 2553.38] you'll come -[2553.38 --> 2553.72] after -[2553.72 --> 2554.18] because you're -[2554.18 --> 2554.58] talking for -[2554.58 --> 2554.82] both -[2554.82 --> 2555.06] right -[2555.06 --> 2555.66] yeah -[2555.66 --> 2564.98] yeah -[2567.34 --> 2576.50] since I was -[2576.50 --> 2576.74] little -[2576.74 --> 2577.24] I've always -[2577.24 --> 2577.66] known about -[2577.66 --> 2578.08] God -[2578.08 --> 2578.42] Jesus -[2578.42 --> 2579.04] and the Bible -[2579.04 --> 2580.26] as a family -[2580.26 --> 2580.94] we did evening -[2580.94 --> 2581.46] devotions -[2581.46 --> 2582.10] after dinner -[2582.10 --> 2582.78] prayed before -[2582.78 --> 2583.14] bed -[2583.14 --> 2583.84] and went to -[2583.84 --> 2584.34] church on -[2584.34 --> 2584.74] Sundays -[2584.74 --> 2585.80] I always -[2585.80 --> 2585.82] I always -[2585.82 --> 2586.12] listened -[2586.12 --> 2586.66] in Sunday -[2586.66 --> 2586.98] school -[2586.98 --> 2587.72] but the -[2587.72 --> 2588.28] following week -[2588.28 --> 2588.78] I could never -[2588.78 --> 2589.38] remember what -[2589.38 --> 2590.04] story we read -[2590.04 --> 2591.36] I did however -[2591.36 --> 2591.98] remember the -[2591.98 --> 2592.56] memory verse -[2592.56 --> 2593.08] for the month -[2593.08 --> 2593.80] but that was -[2593.80 --> 2594.16] just to get -[2594.16 --> 2594.86] the candy prize -[2594.86 --> 2595.50] after reciting -[2595.50 --> 2595.94] it to my -[2595.94 --> 2596.24] teacher -[2596.24 --> 2598.14] in middle -[2598.14 --> 2598.44] school -[2598.44 --> 2599.10] the number -[2599.10 --> 2599.52] of times -[2599.52 --> 2600.02] I was called -[2600.02 --> 2600.42] the good -[2600.42 --> 2600.80] Christian -[2600.80 --> 2601.12] innocent -[2601.12 --> 2601.38] girl -[2601.38 --> 2601.76] was quite -[2601.76 --> 2602.18] remarkable -[2602.18 --> 2602.68] considering -[2602.68 --> 2603.06] I went -[2603.06 --> 2603.86] to Langley -[2603.86 --> 2604.18] Christian -[2604.18 --> 2604.54] school -[2604.54 --> 2605.76] I guess -[2605.76 --> 2605.98] I knew -[2605.98 --> 2606.32] what to do -[2606.32 --> 2606.86] as a Christian -[2606.86 --> 2607.82] read my Bible -[2607.82 --> 2608.22] pray -[2608.22 --> 2608.82] be nice -[2608.82 --> 2609.20] to people -[2609.20 --> 2609.70] all that -[2609.70 --> 2610.06] stuff -[2610.06 --> 2613.00] in grade 7 -[2613.00 --> 2613.50] I was like -[2613.50 --> 2613.72] yeah -[2613.72 --> 2614.60] I got this -[2614.60 --> 2615.40] do my devotions -[2615.40 --> 2616.04] before bed -[2616.04 --> 2616.62] that's a cool -[2616.62 --> 2617.14] thing to do -[2617.14 --> 2617.40] right -[2617.40 --> 2618.84] so away I went -[2618.84 --> 2619.80] doing my devotions -[2619.80 --> 2620.80] most of the time -[2620.80 --> 2621.42] falling asleep -[2621.42 --> 2622.06] while doing it -[2622.06 --> 2622.62] but at least -[2622.62 --> 2623.06] I could check -[2623.06 --> 2623.70] it off the list -[2623.70 --> 2624.44] so I was good -[2624.44 --> 2625.90] it probably wasn't -[2625.90 --> 2627.06] until grade 10 -[2627.06 --> 2628.46] that I got confused -[2628.46 --> 2629.52] I was doing -[2629.52 --> 2630.12] all these things -[2630.12 --> 2630.58] but wasn't -[2630.58 --> 2631.22] feeling anything -[2631.22 --> 2632.24] I was questioning -[2632.24 --> 2632.76] what the point -[2632.76 --> 2633.42] of all this stuff -[2633.42 --> 2633.78] was -[2633.78 --> 2634.74] and why God -[2634.74 --> 2635.28] wasn't showing -[2635.28 --> 2636.00] himself to me -[2636.00 --> 2637.92] there was a lot -[2637.92 --> 2638.28] of change -[2638.28 --> 2638.86] happening around -[2638.86 --> 2639.52] me at the time -[2639.52 --> 2641.78] a pandemic -[2641.78 --> 2642.82] had struck the world -[2642.82 --> 2643.44] and restrictions -[2643.44 --> 2644.08] weren't staying -[2644.08 --> 2644.44] the same -[2644.44 --> 2645.28] for more than a month -[2645.28 --> 2646.44] there were changes -[2646.44 --> 2647.42] in my relationships -[2647.42 --> 2648.04] with friends -[2648.04 --> 2648.68] and family -[2648.68 --> 2650.26] but during the time -[2650.26 --> 2650.98] stuck in my house -[2650.98 --> 2651.62] with all the new -[2651.62 --> 2652.42] worries building up -[2652.42 --> 2653.54] I finally felt God -[2653.54 --> 2654.62] I learned the reason -[2654.62 --> 2655.32] why I was doing -[2655.32 --> 2656.06] my devotions -[2656.06 --> 2657.44] why I was being nice -[2657.44 --> 2658.40] to that random person -[2658.40 --> 2659.64] and why God -[2659.64 --> 2660.18] is so good -[2660.18 --> 2661.18] I had time -[2661.18 --> 2662.32] to reflect on my life -[2662.32 --> 2663.68] and see how God -[2663.68 --> 2664.10] was working -[2664.10 --> 2664.62] in the different -[2664.62 --> 2665.24] circumstances -[2665.24 --> 2666.02] I had been through -[2666.02 --> 2667.84] I saw and still see -[2667.84 --> 2668.54] him working -[2668.54 --> 2669.28] through my family -[2669.28 --> 2670.12] and the ups and downs -[2670.12 --> 2670.88] we have gone through -[2670.88 --> 2671.92] with fostering -[2671.92 --> 2672.48] and adopting -[2672.48 --> 2673.36] my younger siblings -[2673.36 --> 2674.60] I felt his love -[2674.60 --> 2675.30] through my family -[2675.30 --> 2676.46] I felt his hope -[2676.46 --> 2676.90] in the midst -[2676.90 --> 2677.48] of a broken -[2677.48 --> 2678.36] scrambling world -[2678.36 --> 2679.46] and most of all -[2679.46 --> 2680.32] I felt his peace -[2680.32 --> 2681.64] God had been chasing -[2681.64 --> 2682.84] after me my whole life -[2682.84 --> 2683.84] shining his light -[2683.84 --> 2684.42] for me to see -[2684.42 --> 2687.66] it wasn't until -[2687.66 --> 2688.66] I actually had the time -[2688.66 --> 2689.20] to reflect -[2689.20 --> 2690.20] and ask questions -[2690.20 --> 2691.08] for me to see that -[2691.08 --> 2692.24] all the pieces -[2692.24 --> 2692.88] fell together -[2692.88 --> 2693.80] and my love for Jesus -[2693.80 --> 2694.84] became so strong -[2694.84 --> 2695.56] and so real -[2695.56 --> 2697.20] COVID has been known -[2697.20 --> 2698.16] to be a bad time -[2698.16 --> 2698.90] in all of our lives -[2698.90 --> 2699.52] but really -[2699.52 --> 2700.10] without it -[2700.10 --> 2700.82] I wouldn't have had -[2700.82 --> 2701.64] as much time -[2701.64 --> 2702.54] for God to show up -[2702.54 --> 2703.60] I wouldn't have -[2703.60 --> 2704.44] reflected as much -[2704.44 --> 2705.48] as I got to -[2705.48 --> 2706.94] during COVID -[2706.94 --> 2707.80] and now after -[2707.80 --> 2708.90] I've grown a passion -[2708.90 --> 2709.58] to learn more -[2709.58 --> 2710.32] and dig deeper -[2710.32 --> 2710.96] into the questions -[2710.96 --> 2712.34] I have -[2712.34 --> 2713.38] and I am able -[2713.38 --> 2713.86] to do that -[2713.86 --> 2714.62] with my youth group -[2714.62 --> 2715.36] and close friends -[2715.36 --> 2716.60] I feel like my faith -[2716.60 --> 2717.54] has always been my own -[2717.54 --> 2718.60] it just didn't -[2718.60 --> 2719.28] I just didn't -[2719.28 --> 2720.06] understand it -[2720.06 --> 2720.82] and now -[2720.82 --> 2721.76] through much reflection -[2721.76 --> 2722.54] challenges -[2722.54 --> 2723.20] questioning -[2723.20 --> 2723.82] and growth -[2723.82 --> 2724.44] I understand -[2724.44 --> 2725.22] that I won't be able -[2725.22 --> 2726.32] to fully understand -[2726.32 --> 2727.56] my indescribable -[2727.56 --> 2729.62] immutable -[2729.62 --> 2731.34] mysterious God -[2731.34 --> 2733.02] but I want to learn more -[2733.02 --> 2734.16] and lean into the stirring -[2734.16 --> 2734.66] of my heart -[2734.66 --> 2735.78] of being in awe of him -[2735.78 --> 2737.30] because of the love -[2737.30 --> 2738.32] that I have grown for Jesus -[2738.32 --> 2739.62] I am professing my faith -[2739.62 --> 2740.66] today as my own -[2740.66 --> 2751.18] we're going to invite -[2751.18 --> 2751.84] Samara up -[2751.84 --> 2752.46] and she's -[2752.46 --> 2753.66] going to speak -[2753.66 --> 2754.60] on behalf -[2754.60 --> 2755.38] and for both -[2755.38 --> 2763.90] so I've been -[2763.90 --> 2764.80] Kaylee's youth leader -[2764.80 --> 2766.06] now for five years -[2766.06 --> 2766.96] and I've had the chance -[2766.96 --> 2767.40] to watch -[2767.40 --> 2768.04] as she has grown -[2768.04 --> 2768.66] into the funny -[2768.66 --> 2769.22] confident -[2769.22 --> 2770.18] Christ loving woman -[2770.18 --> 2771.18] that we see before us -[2771.18 --> 2772.24] and I'm so happy -[2772.24 --> 2772.80] to be up here -[2772.80 --> 2773.24] for her -[2773.24 --> 2773.84] with her -[2773.84 --> 2775.14] Kaylee -[2775.14 --> 2776.04] it's been especially -[2776.04 --> 2776.98] amazing for me -[2776.98 --> 2777.78] to see you grow -[2777.78 --> 2778.40] in your faith -[2778.40 --> 2779.16] throughout these years -[2779.16 --> 2780.14] I've been blessed -[2780.14 --> 2780.96] to be able to watch -[2780.96 --> 2781.56] as you made your -[2781.56 --> 2782.58] relationship with Christ -[2782.58 --> 2782.94] your own -[2782.94 --> 2783.76] through the devotions -[2783.76 --> 2784.18] you've chosen -[2784.18 --> 2784.86] to do with me -[2784.86 --> 2786.08] and through the time -[2786.08 --> 2786.92] you spend working -[2786.92 --> 2787.76] on it on your own -[2787.76 --> 2789.12] you have been so -[2789.12 --> 2790.08] intentional in growing -[2790.08 --> 2790.76] your relationship -[2790.76 --> 2791.30] with Jesus -[2791.30 --> 2792.24] and because of that -[2792.24 --> 2792.80] you have been able -[2792.80 --> 2793.54] to lean on him -[2793.54 --> 2794.08] when you face -[2794.08 --> 2794.88] difficult times -[2794.88 --> 2796.66] Psalm 37 -[2796.66 --> 2798.36] 23-24 says -[2798.36 --> 2799.42] the Lord makes -[2799.42 --> 2800.24] firm the steps -[2800.24 --> 2800.72] of the one -[2800.72 --> 2801.62] who delights in him -[2801.62 --> 2802.72] though he may stumble -[2802.72 --> 2803.66] he will not fall -[2803.66 --> 2804.48] for the Lord -[2804.48 --> 2805.14] upholds him -[2805.14 --> 2805.80] with his hand -[2805.80 --> 2807.48] I pray -[2807.48 --> 2808.54] that throughout -[2808.54 --> 2809.06] your life -[2809.06 --> 2809.80] in the good times -[2809.80 --> 2810.46] and the challenges -[2810.46 --> 2811.28] you remember -[2811.28 --> 2812.42] that even if you stumble -[2812.42 --> 2813.40] and feel overwhelmed -[2813.40 --> 2814.70] Jesus is always there -[2814.70 --> 2815.52] to give you strength -[2815.52 --> 2816.22] and hold you up -[2816.22 --> 2817.44] your relationship -[2817.44 --> 2817.94] with him -[2817.94 --> 2818.90] like all relationships -[2818.90 --> 2819.84] will be constantly -[2819.84 --> 2820.74] changing and growing -[2820.74 --> 2821.68] and I encourage you -[2821.68 --> 2822.30] through the highs -[2822.30 --> 2822.68] and lows -[2822.68 --> 2823.62] to continue taking -[2823.62 --> 2823.98] the time -[2823.98 --> 2824.60] to get to know -[2824.60 --> 2825.10] Christ better -[2825.10 --> 2826.26] and find peace -[2826.26 --> 2826.78] in the knowledge -[2826.78 --> 2828.12] that he has -[2828.12 --> 2828.64] the strength -[2828.64 --> 2829.50] to handle everything -[2829.50 --> 2830.04] that happens -[2830.04 --> 2830.56] in your life -[2830.56 --> 2831.42] even if you feel -[2831.42 --> 2832.04] like you don't -[2832.04 --> 2836.72] okay -[2836.72 --> 2839.20] Ruth -[2839.20 --> 2841.48] I've had the privilege -[2841.48 --> 2842.38] of mentoring Ruth -[2842.38 --> 2842.82] as well -[2842.82 --> 2843.92] for the past five years -[2843.92 --> 2844.64] as her youth leader -[2844.64 --> 2845.84] it's been great -[2845.84 --> 2846.64] getting to know her -[2846.64 --> 2847.30] and being able -[2847.30 --> 2848.22] to see her mature -[2848.22 --> 2849.18] and become the woman -[2849.18 --> 2850.10] that God has created -[2850.10 --> 2850.64] her to be -[2850.64 --> 2852.14] she's very sweet -[2852.14 --> 2852.70] and giving -[2852.70 --> 2853.44] and cares deeply -[2853.44 --> 2854.02] for the people -[2854.02 --> 2854.52] around her -[2854.52 --> 2855.62] and I consider myself -[2855.62 --> 2856.22] very blessed -[2856.22 --> 2857.30] to be one of those people -[2857.30 --> 2858.46] Ruth -[2858.46 --> 2860.16] I've loved seeing you -[2860.16 --> 2860.92] take your faith -[2860.92 --> 2861.74] and make it your own -[2861.74 --> 2862.70] as an important part -[2862.70 --> 2863.22] of your life -[2863.22 --> 2864.32] I have watched -[2864.32 --> 2865.28] as you put in the effort -[2865.28 --> 2866.02] to be intentional -[2866.02 --> 2866.70] with your time -[2866.70 --> 2867.66] and read through the Bible -[2867.66 --> 2868.80] deepening your relationship -[2868.80 --> 2869.36] with God -[2869.36 --> 2871.06] I'm very honored -[2871.06 --> 2871.70] to have received -[2871.70 --> 2872.46] multiple texts -[2872.46 --> 2873.08] throughout the last -[2873.08 --> 2873.66] five years -[2873.66 --> 2874.30] with questions -[2874.30 --> 2875.06] that have come up -[2875.06 --> 2876.24] in your personal devotions -[2876.24 --> 2876.82] and witnessed -[2876.82 --> 2877.58] how you've learned -[2877.58 --> 2878.44] and grown through -[2878.44 --> 2880.10] those devotionals -[2880.10 --> 2881.44] and ones we've done together -[2881.44 --> 2882.42] as well as asking -[2882.42 --> 2883.32] those hard questions -[2883.32 --> 2885.46] you have worked hard -[2885.46 --> 2886.22] on making Jesus -[2886.22 --> 2886.84] the one you put -[2886.84 --> 2887.64] your identity in -[2887.64 --> 2888.32] and work hard -[2888.32 --> 2888.98] on trying to live -[2888.98 --> 2889.80] a life that reflects -[2889.80 --> 2890.20] Christ -[2890.20 --> 2892.50] Galatians 2 verse 20 -[2892.50 --> 2892.90] says -[2892.90 --> 2894.10] I have been crucified -[2894.10 --> 2894.78] with Christ -[2894.78 --> 2895.76] it is no longer -[2895.76 --> 2896.54] I who live -[2896.54 --> 2897.50] but Christ who lives -[2897.50 --> 2897.84] in me -[2897.84 --> 2898.48] and the life -[2898.48 --> 2899.02] I now live -[2899.02 --> 2899.58] in the flesh -[2899.58 --> 2900.90] I live by faith -[2900.90 --> 2901.68] in the son of God -[2901.68 --> 2902.40] who loved me -[2902.40 --> 2903.02] and gave himself -[2903.02 --> 2903.48] for me -[2903.48 --> 2904.84] I pray that you -[2904.84 --> 2905.52] always remember -[2905.52 --> 2906.30] how much Jesus -[2906.30 --> 2906.80] loves you -[2906.80 --> 2907.38] and what he did -[2907.38 --> 2907.68] for you -[2907.68 --> 2908.52] because of that love -[2908.52 --> 2909.60] I hope that -[2909.60 --> 2910.22] throughout your life -[2910.22 --> 2910.74] you continue -[2910.74 --> 2911.60] to put your identity -[2911.60 --> 2912.04] in him -[2912.04 --> 2912.66] and interact -[2912.66 --> 2913.32] with those around -[2913.32 --> 2913.82] you in a way -[2913.82 --> 2914.40] that reflects -[2914.40 --> 2915.02] the incredible -[2915.02 --> 2915.68] knowledge that -[2915.68 --> 2916.58] Christ lives in you -[2916.58 --> 2917.54] and works through you -[2932.54 --> 2933.64] all right James -[2933.64 --> 2935.90] come on up -[2935.90 --> 2936.80] and then Kevin -[2936.80 --> 2937.52] as soon as James -[2937.52 --> 2937.78] is done -[2937.78 --> 2938.42] you can come up -[2941.60 --> 2953.92] I have been going -[2953.92 --> 2954.36] to church -[2954.36 --> 2955.98] basically my entire life -[2955.98 --> 2957.14] when I was younger -[2957.14 --> 2958.30] my faith was there -[2958.30 --> 2959.26] and I knew it was there -[2959.26 --> 2960.06] but I never really -[2960.06 --> 2961.42] questioned what it meant -[2961.42 --> 2963.12] I would go to Sunday school -[2963.12 --> 2964.02] and learn new things -[2964.02 --> 2964.58] from the Bible -[2964.58 --> 2965.96] but I would believe them -[2965.96 --> 2966.56] without wondering -[2966.56 --> 2967.52] why I believed it -[2967.52 --> 2969.26] now having grown up -[2969.26 --> 2969.88] and gone through -[2969.88 --> 2971.32] the church's youth program -[2971.32 --> 2972.38] I've thought of those -[2972.38 --> 2973.32] questions and answered -[2973.32 --> 2974.10] them for myself -[2974.10 --> 2976.52] I believe the Bible -[2976.52 --> 2977.56] because of my faith -[2977.56 --> 2978.82] and I have faith -[2978.82 --> 2979.90] because I know that God -[2979.90 --> 2981.40] to be our one true God -[2981.40 --> 2982.90] who always watches over us -[2982.90 --> 2985.12] one very specific moment -[2985.12 --> 2985.74] in my life -[2985.74 --> 2986.72] where I know that God -[2986.72 --> 2988.20] was working with me -[2988.20 --> 2989.64] was when my family -[2989.64 --> 2990.62] went back to visit -[2990.62 --> 2992.66] our family in New Brunswick -[2992.66 --> 2994.24] a few years after we had moved -[2994.24 --> 2996.16] me and my mom -[2996.16 --> 2997.04] my sister decided -[2997.04 --> 2999.14] to go drive by our old house -[2999.14 --> 3000.02] since we hadn't seen it -[3000.02 --> 3000.66] in a long time -[3000.66 --> 3002.54] we drove past it once -[3002.54 --> 3003.42] we were going to stop -[3003.42 --> 3004.56] but there was people out front -[3004.56 --> 3005.50] so I drove by -[3005.50 --> 3006.22] drove by again -[3006.22 --> 3006.78] and went home -[3006.78 --> 3008.10] the next day -[3008.10 --> 3008.82] on the news -[3008.82 --> 3009.88] we saw that it had burned -[3009.88 --> 3010.40] to the ground -[3010.40 --> 3013.54] so when I saw that -[3013.54 --> 3014.28] I knew that God -[3014.28 --> 3015.16] had been gracious -[3015.16 --> 3015.90] in giving us -[3015.90 --> 3016.68] one more chance -[3016.68 --> 3017.78] to see our old home -[3017.78 --> 3019.18] before it was gone for good -[3019.18 --> 3023.46] in a time of constant changes -[3023.46 --> 3025.04] with me finishing high school -[3025.04 --> 3025.62] and COVID -[3025.62 --> 3027.16] and everything happening around -[3027.16 --> 3028.70] with all these decisions to make -[3028.70 --> 3029.78] there's one thing -[3029.78 --> 3031.00] that will always be constant -[3031.00 --> 3031.56] in my life -[3031.56 --> 3032.38] and that is God -[3032.38 --> 3045.40] James -[3045.40 --> 3047.56] it has been an absolute joy -[3047.56 --> 3049.32] having you part of our youth ministry -[3049.32 --> 3050.78] these past five years -[3050.78 --> 3052.64] watching you graduate this week -[3052.64 --> 3054.24] from Brookswood Secondary School -[3054.24 --> 3055.32] in some ways felt like -[3055.32 --> 3056.42] a little bit of a book end -[3056.42 --> 3057.80] to our relationship -[3057.80 --> 3058.50] at least this part -[3058.50 --> 3059.26] of our relationship -[3059.26 --> 3061.12] as you're finishing high school -[3061.12 --> 3062.32] and you're professing your faith today -[3062.32 --> 3063.16] and now you're looking ahead -[3063.16 --> 3064.44] to Thompson River University -[3064.44 --> 3065.00] in the fall -[3065.00 --> 3067.66] and a computer science degree -[3067.66 --> 3068.28] awaits you -[3068.28 --> 3069.52] I couldn't be happier -[3069.52 --> 3070.00] and prouder -[3070.00 --> 3071.06] of what you have done -[3071.06 --> 3071.72] and what God -[3071.72 --> 3073.36] is doing in your life -[3073.36 --> 3074.24] and where he's taking you -[3074.24 --> 3075.50] and while this week -[3075.50 --> 3076.30] maybe some way -[3076.30 --> 3077.10] feels like a book end -[3077.10 --> 3077.78] I only mean that -[3077.78 --> 3078.84] because our relationship -[3078.84 --> 3079.74] is changing -[3079.74 --> 3080.42] and not ending -[3080.42 --> 3081.36] I'm not going to be -[3081.36 --> 3082.86] teaching you catechism anymore -[3082.86 --> 3083.84] or Belgic Confession -[3083.84 --> 3085.24] hopefully we can still chat -[3085.24 --> 3086.04] about video games -[3086.04 --> 3086.92] and Marvel movies -[3086.92 --> 3088.36] and watch a random movie -[3088.36 --> 3088.90] here and there -[3088.90 --> 3090.72] maybe even run into each other -[3090.72 --> 3091.72] at my kids baseball games -[3091.72 --> 3092.46] every now and then -[3092.46 --> 3093.84] I hope that that still happens -[3093.84 --> 3094.74] but something is changing -[3094.74 --> 3096.32] and as Josh would say -[3096.32 --> 3097.14] it's awesome -[3097.14 --> 3099.60] I'm so glad to see -[3099.60 --> 3100.24] that you are committing -[3100.24 --> 3101.02] your life to Jesus -[3101.02 --> 3101.94] and to the church -[3101.94 --> 3103.38] and I know that this is something -[3103.38 --> 3104.02] that you have been -[3104.02 --> 3104.98] taking very seriously -[3104.98 --> 3106.42] while you're not -[3106.42 --> 3108.10] the loudest person I know -[3108.10 --> 3109.06] you've always been willing -[3109.06 --> 3110.28] to engage conversations -[3110.28 --> 3111.66] about faith and life -[3111.66 --> 3112.90] and God and doctrine -[3112.90 --> 3114.28] over these last five years -[3114.28 --> 3115.58] in high school -[3115.58 --> 3116.20] I know that you've had -[3116.20 --> 3117.20] to stand up for your faith -[3117.20 --> 3117.80] or at the very least -[3117.80 --> 3119.00] articulate what you believe -[3119.00 --> 3120.70] and I always admired that as well -[3120.70 --> 3122.14] this will only keep happening -[3122.14 --> 3122.96] of course as you go off -[3122.96 --> 3123.48] to university -[3123.48 --> 3125.00] as life changes -[3125.00 --> 3126.36] lanes now a little bit -[3126.36 --> 3127.32] for you going forward -[3127.32 --> 3128.42] I want to encourage you -[3128.42 --> 3129.70] to remember the Lord -[3129.70 --> 3130.80] in all these things -[3130.80 --> 3131.88] remember what Pastor Chris -[3131.88 --> 3133.40] taught you in pastor's class -[3133.40 --> 3133.74] recently -[3133.74 --> 3135.04] remember what you've gleaned -[3135.04 --> 3135.70] over the years -[3135.70 --> 3137.44] in HCBC and in 2020 -[3137.44 --> 3138.98] remember the conversations -[3138.98 --> 3139.90] you've had with different -[3139.90 --> 3140.38] youth leaders -[3140.38 --> 3141.92] especially your youth leaders -[3141.92 --> 3142.54] Matt Woods -[3142.54 --> 3144.04] and Adrian Molenkamp -[3144.04 --> 3144.78] almost everything -[3144.78 --> 3145.64] I mean one of them -[3145.64 --> 3146.82] did think that cosmetology -[3146.82 --> 3147.76] meant going to space -[3147.76 --> 3148.50] so don't remember -[3148.50 --> 3150.40] everything that they've said -[3150.40 --> 3152.22] it's probably wise -[3152.22 --> 3152.98] to forget some stuff -[3152.98 --> 3153.72] but point is -[3153.72 --> 3155.08] as you go forward -[3155.08 --> 3156.64] remember the foundation -[3156.64 --> 3158.52] of faith that has got you here -[3158.52 --> 3160.12] keep leaning into it -[3160.12 --> 3161.02] you're part of this church -[3161.02 --> 3161.94] you're a full participant -[3161.94 --> 3162.82] in all its blessings -[3162.82 --> 3163.52] and responsibilities -[3163.52 --> 3164.86] now even when you -[3164.86 --> 3165.82] take off to Kamloops -[3165.82 --> 3166.94] but no matter what -[3166.94 --> 3167.56] if you're there -[3167.56 --> 3168.22] or if you're here -[3168.22 --> 3169.34] or wherever you find yourself -[3169.34 --> 3170.24] I want to encourage you -[3170.24 --> 3170.78] with this blessing -[3170.78 --> 3171.44] from Paul -[3171.44 --> 3171.92] in his letter -[3171.92 --> 3172.70] to the Corinthians -[3172.70 --> 3174.36] in 1 Corinthians 15 -[3174.36 --> 3175.24] 158 Paul says -[3175.24 --> 3175.60] therefore -[3175.60 --> 3177.42] James my dear brother -[3177.42 --> 3178.64] stand firm -[3178.64 --> 3180.42] let nothing move you -[3180.42 --> 3181.96] always give yourself -[3181.96 --> 3182.96] fully to the work -[3182.96 --> 3183.46] of the Lord -[3183.46 --> 3184.68] because you know -[3184.68 --> 3185.38] that your labor -[3185.38 --> 3186.06] in the Lord -[3186.06 --> 3187.28] is not in vain -[3187.28 --> 3188.12] may that be true -[3188.12 --> 3188.98] for you in your life -[3188.98 --> 3190.46] as you continue on -[3190.46 --> 3191.66] what God has in store -[3191.66 --> 3191.96] for you -[3204.36 --> 3218.62] Kevin turned it off -[3218.62 --> 3219.42] I think we got it -[3219.42 --> 3229.06] so this morning -[3229.06 --> 3230.84] we are excited -[3230.84 --> 3232.12] to welcome -[3232.12 --> 3233.88] these three -[3233.88 --> 3235.54] into the full -[3235.54 --> 3236.84] covenant membership -[3236.84 --> 3238.86] of our church family -[3238.86 --> 3239.84] here at Langley -[3239.84 --> 3240.92] at Langley Manual -[3240.92 --> 3242.66] all the way back -[3242.66 --> 3243.52] at their baptisms -[3243.52 --> 3244.72] God extended -[3244.72 --> 3246.10] a promise to you -[3246.10 --> 3247.76] and has called you -[3247.76 --> 3249.30] to be part of us -[3249.30 --> 3250.06] and today -[3250.06 --> 3251.94] you take responsibility -[3251.94 --> 3253.54] for that promise -[3253.54 --> 3255.28] and we are so grateful -[3255.28 --> 3256.32] to have walked -[3256.32 --> 3256.88] that journey -[3256.88 --> 3258.30] and for the stories -[3258.30 --> 3258.86] that we could hear -[3258.86 --> 3259.32] from you -[3259.32 --> 3260.12] and from the people -[3260.12 --> 3260.68] who have walked -[3260.68 --> 3261.12] that journey -[3261.12 --> 3261.70] with you -[3261.70 --> 3263.30] I'm going to ask you -[3263.30 --> 3265.00] each four questions -[3265.00 --> 3266.64] I'll ask each question -[3266.64 --> 3267.52] and then ask you -[3267.52 --> 3268.08] to answer them -[3268.08 --> 3268.68] individually -[3268.68 --> 3270.66] once I get through -[3270.66 --> 3271.26] the questions -[3271.26 --> 3273.32] and I invite you -[3273.32 --> 3273.88] to respond -[3273.88 --> 3274.76] say I do -[3274.76 --> 3275.64] with God's help -[3275.64 --> 3276.88] and then following that -[3276.88 --> 3278.14] we'll ask the church -[3278.14 --> 3279.26] a question as well -[3279.26 --> 3280.24] so I'll read all four -[3280.24 --> 3280.66] questions -[3280.66 --> 3281.40] and then go through -[3281.40 --> 3284.10] do you believe -[3284.10 --> 3285.78] that Jesus Christ -[3285.78 --> 3287.00] is the son of God -[3287.00 --> 3288.48] sent to redeem -[3288.48 --> 3288.92] the world -[3288.92 --> 3290.34] do you love him -[3290.34 --> 3291.46] and trust him -[3291.46 --> 3292.04] as the one -[3292.04 --> 3292.72] who saves you -[3292.72 --> 3293.38] from your sin -[3293.38 --> 3294.20] and do you -[3294.20 --> 3294.90] with repentance -[3294.90 --> 3295.58] and joy -[3295.58 --> 3296.52] embrace him -[3296.52 --> 3297.40] as the Lord -[3297.40 --> 3298.02] of your life -[3298.02 --> 3299.30] two -[3299.30 --> 3300.82] do you believe -[3300.82 --> 3301.42] that the Bible -[3301.42 --> 3302.58] is the word of God -[3302.58 --> 3303.54] revealing Christ -[3303.54 --> 3304.24] and his redemption -[3304.24 --> 3305.74] and that the confessions -[3305.74 --> 3306.76] of this church -[3306.76 --> 3308.30] faithfully reflect -[3308.30 --> 3309.20] this revelation -[3309.20 --> 3311.14] three -[3311.14 --> 3312.64] do you accept -[3312.64 --> 3314.28] the gracious promises -[3314.28 --> 3314.94] of God -[3314.94 --> 3315.70] seal to you -[3315.70 --> 3316.40] in your baptism -[3316.40 --> 3317.06] and do you -[3317.06 --> 3318.24] affirm your union -[3318.24 --> 3319.12] with Christ -[3319.12 --> 3320.38] and his church -[3320.38 --> 3321.58] which your baptism -[3321.58 --> 3322.44] signifies -[3322.44 --> 3323.98] and four -[3323.98 --> 3326.94] do you promise -[3326.94 --> 3328.22] to do all that you can -[3328.22 --> 3328.88] with the help -[3328.88 --> 3329.80] of the Holy Spirit -[3329.80 --> 3331.28] to strengthen your love -[3331.28 --> 3331.86] and commitment -[3331.86 --> 3332.44] to Christ -[3332.44 --> 3333.62] by sharing faithfully -[3333.62 --> 3334.52] in the life -[3334.52 --> 3335.06] of the church -[3335.06 --> 3336.26] honoring and submitting -[3336.26 --> 3337.04] to its authority -[3337.04 --> 3338.60] and do you join -[3338.60 --> 3339.82] with the people of God -[3339.82 --> 3340.76] in doing the work -[3340.76 --> 3341.62] of the Lord -[3341.62 --> 3342.56] everywhere -[3342.56 --> 3343.64] James -[3343.64 --> 3344.84] what is your answer -[3344.84 --> 3346.14] I do -[3346.14 --> 3347.62] with God's help -[3347.62 --> 3349.36] Ruth -[3349.36 --> 3350.40] what is your answer -[3350.40 --> 3351.62] I do -[3351.62 --> 3352.54] I do -[3352.54 --> 3353.48] with God's help -[3353.48 --> 3354.68] Kaylee -[3354.68 --> 3355.80] what is your answer -[3355.80 --> 3356.86] I do -[3356.86 --> 3357.82] with God's help -[3357.82 --> 3358.68] Amen -[3358.68 --> 3359.62] Amen -[3359.62 --> 3362.20] In the name -[3362.20 --> 3362.62] of the Lord -[3362.62 --> 3363.36] Jesus Christ -[3363.36 --> 3364.12] then I now -[3364.12 --> 3365.00] welcome you -[3365.00 --> 3365.96] to the privileges -[3365.96 --> 3367.64] of full communion -[3367.64 --> 3368.76] I welcome you -[3368.76 --> 3369.66] to full participation -[3369.66 --> 3370.50] in the life -[3370.50 --> 3371.06] of the church -[3371.06 --> 3372.08] I welcome you -[3372.08 --> 3373.18] to its responsibilities -[3373.18 --> 3374.34] its joys -[3374.34 --> 3375.76] and its sufferings -[3375.76 --> 3376.72] and struggles -[3376.72 --> 3378.38] May the God -[3378.38 --> 3378.98] of peace -[3378.98 --> 3380.06] who through the blood -[3380.06 --> 3381.06] of the eternal covenant -[3381.06 --> 3381.76] brought back -[3381.76 --> 3382.40] from the dead -[3382.40 --> 3383.80] our Lord Jesus Christ -[3383.80 --> 3384.80] that great shepherd -[3384.80 --> 3385.74] of the sheep -[3385.74 --> 3386.42] equip you -[3386.42 --> 3387.94] with everything good -[3387.94 --> 3389.82] for doing his will -[3389.82 --> 3391.48] and may he work -[3391.48 --> 3392.20] in you -[3392.20 --> 3393.10] what is pleasing -[3393.10 --> 3393.66] to him -[3393.66 --> 3395.48] through Jesus Christ -[3395.48 --> 3396.84] to whom be glory -[3396.84 --> 3397.72] forever -[3397.72 --> 3398.94] and ever -[3398.94 --> 3399.96] Amen -[3399.96 --> 3402.78] congregation -[3402.78 --> 3403.24] church -[3403.24 --> 3403.72] family -[3403.72 --> 3405.04] I'm going to invite you -[3405.04 --> 3406.06] to also -[3406.06 --> 3407.80] answer a question -[3407.80 --> 3409.70] and to respond -[3409.70 --> 3410.36] by saying -[3410.36 --> 3410.92] we do -[3410.92 --> 3412.52] God helping us -[3412.52 --> 3413.14] if in fact -[3413.14 --> 3413.84] you do -[3413.84 --> 3414.80] agree -[3414.80 --> 3416.66] and so do you -[3416.66 --> 3418.20] the people of God -[3418.20 --> 3419.16] gathered here -[3419.16 --> 3419.86] at Langley -[3419.86 --> 3420.40] Emmanuel -[3420.40 --> 3422.00] promise Ruth -[3422.00 --> 3422.76] James -[3422.76 --> 3423.52] and Kaylee -[3423.52 --> 3424.26] your love -[3424.26 --> 3425.34] encouragement -[3425.34 --> 3426.42] and prayers -[3426.42 --> 3431.12] amen -[3431.12 --> 3432.84] I'm going to invite -[3432.84 --> 3434.20] Glenn Nort -[3434.20 --> 3435.02] to come forward -[3435.02 --> 3435.92] he has a gift -[3435.92 --> 3436.86] for you -[3436.86 --> 3437.98] marking this occasion -[3437.98 --> 3439.08] on behalf of -[3439.08 --> 3440.24] that council -[3440.24 --> 3440.68] and -[3440.68 --> 3442.52] the body here -[3442.52 --> 3444.10] in those -[3444.10 --> 3445.26] giant envelopes -[3445.26 --> 3445.98] are certificates -[3445.98 --> 3447.16] that mark this day -[3447.16 --> 3448.22] but also -[3448.22 --> 3449.24] because you have -[3449.24 --> 3449.90] now accepted -[3449.90 --> 3450.48] the privileges -[3450.48 --> 3451.56] and responsibilities -[3451.56 --> 3452.54] of full membership -[3452.54 --> 3453.98] there is an agenda -[3453.98 --> 3454.94] for the congregational -[3454.94 --> 3455.68] meeting coming up -[3455.68 --> 3456.22] next week -[3456.22 --> 3459.26] which you get to -[3459.26 --> 3460.08] participate in -[3460.08 --> 3461.10] and vote at -[3461.10 --> 3465.86] thanks Glenn -[3465.86 --> 3466.86] you can stay up here -[3466.86 --> 3467.34] for a second -[3467.34 --> 3469.08] alright -[3469.08 --> 3470.44] we're going to -[3470.44 --> 3471.68] hop down off stage -[3471.68 --> 3472.44] or take the stairs -[3472.44 --> 3473.10] whichever is -[3473.10 --> 3473.74] safer -[3473.74 --> 3474.72] and come back -[3474.72 --> 3475.52] to the middle here -[3475.52 --> 3478.30] just like we did -[3478.30 --> 3479.42] with children's worship time -[3479.42 --> 3480.06] we acknowledge -[3480.06 --> 3481.00] that there has been -[3481.00 --> 3482.68] almost countless people -[3482.68 --> 3483.98] who have spoken -[3483.98 --> 3484.94] into the lives -[3484.94 --> 3485.70] of these people -[3485.70 --> 3486.16] and so -[3486.16 --> 3487.54] if you are -[3487.54 --> 3488.64] a family member -[3488.64 --> 3489.92] a youth group leader -[3489.92 --> 3491.64] a Sunday school teacher -[3491.64 --> 3492.98] children's worship time -[3492.98 --> 3493.64] cadets -[3493.64 --> 3494.34] or gems -[3494.34 --> 3494.82] or -[3494.82 --> 3496.04] if you have been involved -[3496.04 --> 3496.80] in any way -[3496.80 --> 3498.34] in the life of faith -[3498.34 --> 3499.56] in these individuals -[3499.56 --> 3501.04] I'm going to invite you -[3501.04 --> 3502.06] to come up to the front -[3502.06 --> 3502.60] and we're going to -[3502.60 --> 3503.68] lay hands on them -[3503.68 --> 3505.08] council members -[3505.08 --> 3505.54] as well -[3505.54 --> 3506.28] this is for you -[3506.28 --> 3507.44] come on up to the front -[3507.44 --> 3508.70] lay hands on -[3508.70 --> 3509.46] and we will -[3509.46 --> 3511.58] pray a prayer of blessing -[3511.58 --> 3512.36] over you -[3539.46 --> 3545.40] I think it's a powerful statement -[3545.40 --> 3546.28] when half the church -[3546.28 --> 3546.76] gets up -[3546.76 --> 3547.64] and comes to the front -[3547.64 --> 3549.54] it shows -[3549.54 --> 3550.62] how involved -[3550.62 --> 3551.48] all of us are -[3551.48 --> 3552.08] in the -[3552.08 --> 3553.76] development of faith -[3553.76 --> 3554.38] in -[3554.38 --> 3555.66] people's lives here -[3555.66 --> 3557.50] with one heart -[3557.50 --> 3558.26] let's -[3558.26 --> 3559.02] pray together -[3559.02 --> 3559.86] if you are seated -[3559.86 --> 3560.46] you may also -[3560.46 --> 3561.30] hold out your hand -[3561.30 --> 3562.28] in offering a blessing -[3562.28 --> 3565.36] Lord our God -[3565.36 --> 3567.82] we thank you -[3567.82 --> 3568.96] for your word -[3568.96 --> 3569.76] and spirit -[3569.76 --> 3570.68] through which -[3570.68 --> 3571.38] we know -[3571.38 --> 3572.36] Jesus Christ -[3572.36 --> 3573.48] as Lord -[3573.48 --> 3574.06] and Savior -[3574.06 --> 3576.62] today -[3576.62 --> 3577.40] may -[3577.40 --> 3578.12] James -[3578.12 --> 3578.76] Ruth -[3578.76 --> 3579.84] and Kaylee -[3579.84 --> 3582.02] having confessed -[3582.02 --> 3582.64] your name -[3582.64 --> 3583.50] never cease -[3583.50 --> 3584.14] to wonder -[3584.14 --> 3585.36] at what you have -[3585.36 --> 3586.00] done for them -[3586.00 --> 3587.94] help them -[3587.94 --> 3589.50] to continue -[3589.50 --> 3590.22] firmly -[3590.22 --> 3591.44] in the faith -[3591.44 --> 3593.38] to bear witness -[3593.38 --> 3594.38] to your love -[3594.38 --> 3595.52] and to let -[3595.52 --> 3596.52] the Holy Spirit -[3596.52 --> 3597.98] shape their lives -[3597.98 --> 3600.76] stir in their hearts -[3600.76 --> 3602.28] a new -[3602.28 --> 3603.48] and increasing -[3603.48 --> 3604.30] affection -[3604.30 --> 3605.08] for you -[3605.08 --> 3606.42] that we might be -[3606.42 --> 3608.06] captivated by your mystery -[3608.06 --> 3609.76] and captivated -[3609.76 --> 3610.54] by your beauty -[3610.54 --> 3613.62] take Ruth -[3613.62 --> 3614.60] and James -[3614.60 --> 3615.44] and Kaylee -[3615.44 --> 3616.06] good shepherd -[3616.06 --> 3617.50] into your care -[3617.50 --> 3618.98] that they may -[3618.98 --> 3619.94] loyally endure -[3619.94 --> 3620.62] opposition -[3620.62 --> 3621.52] in serving you -[3621.52 --> 3623.42] and may we -[3623.42 --> 3624.58] with all your children -[3624.58 --> 3625.30] live together -[3625.30 --> 3625.96] in the joy -[3625.96 --> 3626.66] and power -[3626.66 --> 3628.16] of your Holy Spirit -[3628.16 --> 3629.92] we ask this -[3629.92 --> 3630.64] Lord Jesus -[3630.64 --> 3631.76] in the hope -[3631.76 --> 3633.02] of your coming -[3633.02 --> 3634.36] come quickly -[3634.36 --> 3635.06] Lord Jesus -[3635.06 --> 3635.74] we pray -[3635.74 --> 3637.54] and all God's people -[3637.54 --> 3637.86] said -[3637.86 --> 3639.46] Amen -[3639.46 --> 3641.12] Amen -[3641.12 --> 3641.98] congratulations -[3641.98 --> 3643.16] let's give them -[3643.16 --> 3643.80] and the Lord -[3643.80 --> 3644.68] a round of applause -[3644.68 --> 3646.68] applause -[3646.68 --> 3647.68] applause -[3647.68 --> 3648.68] applause -[3648.68 --> 3649.68] applause -[3649.68 --> 3650.68] applause -[3650.68 --> 3651.68] applause -[3651.68 --> 3652.68] applause -[3652.68 --> 3653.68] applause -[3653.68 --> 3654.68] applause -[3654.68 --> 3655.68] applause -[3655.68 --> 3656.16] as the worship team -[3656.16 --> 3656.94] is making their way -[3656.94 --> 3657.52] back up -[3657.52 --> 3659.58] James, Kaylee, and Ruth -[3659.58 --> 3661.44] following service today -[3661.44 --> 3662.52] I know it's Father's Day -[3662.52 --> 3663.54] and there's lots going on -[3663.54 --> 3664.24] but please just -[3664.24 --> 3665.40] hang out somewhere -[3665.40 --> 3666.54] available for people -[3666.54 --> 3667.70] to congratulate you -[3667.70 --> 3669.58] shake your hands -[3669.58 --> 3670.22] and the like -[3670.22 --> 3700.20] thank you -[3700.22 --> 3705.74] please rise -[3705.74 --> 3706.22] as you're able -[3706.22 --> 3711.32] thank you -[3711.32 --> 3711.62] to keep them -[3711.62 --> 3712.30] here -[3712.30 --> 3712.68] thanks -[3712.68 --> 3717.70] let's have a -[3717.82 --> 3718.18] sing -[3718.18 --> 3720.54] and -[3720.54 --> 3722.66] let's have a -[3722.66 --> 3722.80] prayer -[3722.80 --> 3723.50] and -[3723.50 --> 3723.92] pour -[3723.92 --> 3724.12] onto -[3724.12 --> 3725.56] his -[3725.56 --> 3725.80] e -[3725.80 --> 3726.52] entrance -[3726.52 --> 3726.78] x -[3726.78 --> 3727.84] to -[3727.84 --> 3732.00] songs -[3732.00 --> 3732.42] this -[3732.42 --> 3733.46] my only -[3733.46 --> 3734.12] comfort -[3734.12 --> 3737.16] in my life and in my death. -[3738.12 --> 3743.62] You have fully paid for all my sins and all my debt. -[3744.46 --> 3748.52] Even when I struggle to believe, -[3750.58 --> 3754.90] with your precious blood you set me free. -[3757.02 --> 3761.46] I am not my own, -[3761.46 --> 3767.46] but belong, body and soul, -[3768.22 --> 3773.82] in my life and in death. -[3774.36 --> 3780.28] To you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[3781.96 --> 3787.28] You preserve my life in such a way that without you. -[3787.28 --> 3793.54] Not a hair can fall for me unless you live in two. -[3794.54 --> 3799.20] Even when I'm lost in desperation, -[3800.46 --> 3805.42] all things work together for my salvation. -[3805.42 --> 3810.42] I am not my own, -[3810.42 --> 3816.42] but belong, body and soul, -[3816.42 --> 3822.42] in my life and in death. -[3822.42 --> 3829.42] To you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[3829.42 --> 3831.42] Always by your Holy Spirit, -[3831.42 --> 3832.42] you are your God. -[3832.42 --> 3834.42] You are your God. -[3834.42 --> 3836.42] You are your God. -[3836.42 --> 3841.42] Always by your Holy Spirit, -[3841.42 --> 3846.42] you assured me, -[3846.42 --> 3853.42] of eternal life and make me willing and ready. -[3853.42 --> 3858.42] Even when I can't see my way through, -[3858.42 --> 3862.42] from now on to always live for you. -[3862.42 --> 3874.42] I am not my own, -[3874.42 --> 3880.42] but belong, body and soul, -[3880.42 --> 3885.42] in my life and in death. -[3885.42 --> 3887.42] I am not my own, -[3887.42 --> 3892.42] but belong, body and soul, -[3892.42 --> 3895.42] in my life and in death. -[3895.42 --> 3899.42] In my life and in death. -[3899.42 --> 3907.42] To you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[3907.42 --> 3911.42] I am not my own, -[3911.42 --> 3916.42] but belong, body and soul, -[3916.42 --> 3918.42] body and soul, -[3918.42 --> 3921.42] in my life and in death. -[3921.42 --> 3924.42] In my life and in death. -[3924.42 --> 3932.42] To you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[3932.42 --> 3936.42] I am not my own, -[3936.42 --> 3939.42] but belong, -[3939.42 --> 3941.42] Lord, -[3941.42 --> 3944.42] body and soul, -[3944.42 --> 3949.42] in my life and in death. -[3949.42 --> 3958.42] To you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[3958.42 --> 3961.42] I am not my own, -[3961.42 --> 3963.42] but belong, -[3963.42 --> 3965.42] in the name of the Lord. -[3965.42 --> 3967.42] Thank you. -[3967.42 --> 3968.42] Thank you. -[3968.42 --> 3970.42] Thank you. -[3970.42 --> 3971.42] Thank you. -[3971.42 --> 3973.42] Thank you. -[3973.42 --> 3974.42] Thank you. -[3974.42 --> 3975.42] Thank you. -[3975.42 --> 3977.42] Thank you. -[3982.42 --> 3987.42] All right, kids, come on up to the front here. -[3987.42 --> 3988.42] Ooh boy. -[3988.42 --> 3990.42] Well, I guess I'll take it. -[3990.42 --> 3992.42] My spot has been taken. -[3992.42 --> 3999.60] been taken. Come on up. This is our last kids corner for a little while, so now's your chance. -[4001.14 --> 4006.46] It might be, but you can still come up if you're not that young. So we're just going -[4006.46 --> 4011.32] to just do the blessing today because it's a very full service, so, and then we'll talk -[4011.32 --> 4015.98] more about the story in children's worship time. So you guys can just stand on up right -[4015.98 --> 4016.30] now. -[4019.22 --> 4020.36] And face that way. -[4022.42 --> 4028.18] Are you guys ready? So we're going to put our hands up if you haven't done it before, -[4028.28 --> 4029.92] and we're going to say, the Lord be with you. -[4052.42 --> 4066.40] Good morning. My name's Sam, and I'm a member here at Emmanuel, and it's my privilege to -[4066.40 --> 4067.54] lead you in our family prayer. -[4070.12 --> 4076.18] Our Father in heaven, we acknowledge you are always present. Creator of the universe, -[4076.18 --> 4083.68] hallowed be your name. It's hard to fathom how awesome you are, because you are the I am, -[4084.06 --> 4091.18] almighty God, everlasting Father, sustainer of all, giver of life, and healer of the nations. -[4092.24 --> 4096.92] Yet you listen to your children when they pray and respond in your time. -[4096.92 --> 4103.28] May your kingdom come as your church seeks to honor you and share the good tidings revealed -[4103.28 --> 4108.52] through your word. In our worship, we look to lift up your name in praise and adoration, -[4109.36 --> 4115.56] knowing that we depend on you every moment of our existence. We offer our lives, even though -[4115.56 --> 4121.34] we are unable to do the smaller things without your help. But know that we can do all things -[4121.34 --> 4128.44] through Christ who gives us strength. Forgive our sins as we forgive those who have committed -[4128.44 --> 4137.10] wrongs against us. You are compassionate, slow to anger, and abounding in love. Help us to model -[4137.10 --> 4144.44] that in our lives. Thank you for the commitments we witnessed today as Kaylee, Jeremy, and Ruth -[4144.44 --> 4151.10] profess their faith. May this be a turning point in their lives, which will encourage them to depend -[4151.10 --> 4157.62] on you as they take the next steps in their life. Make big decisions that will impact their lives -[4157.62 --> 4165.70] moving forward. Ephesians, we note that it is by thy grace that we have been saved through faith, -[4165.86 --> 4173.38] and this is not of ourselves. It is a gift of God, not by works that no one can boast, for we are God's -[4173.38 --> 4180.76] handiwork created in Christ Jesus to do the good works which he has prepared in advance for us to do. -[4181.76 --> 4186.66] We are grateful for the graduates of the Children's Worship Time who have completed their years of -[4186.66 --> 4192.60] instruction and now join the rest of the congregation each week receiving instruction from your word. -[4193.38 --> 4199.42] We also celebrate with the grade 12 students that have completed their studies and now look forward to -[4199.42 --> 4208.12] life challenges in post-secondary studies, mission work, or various trades and jobs. Bless each one as -[4208.12 --> 4215.94] they seek your will in their lives. We are grateful for the leadership in Emmanuel and we commend those who -[4215.94 --> 4225.92] have agreed to let their name stand. We pray for Brenda, Jeremy, Rich, Yap, and also for Seth and Dick and John -[4225.92 --> 4232.18] for the offices of elders and deacons. We pray that you would give each one wisdom and a measure of your -[4232.18 --> 4241.14] grace to serve your church. Father, today is celebrating Father's Day. We pray that you would bless each one -[4241.14 --> 4250.60] as they are godly men who serve their families and each other. We also pray for the recent meetings -[4250.60 --> 4258.18] at Synod. We pray for our denomination as we move forward after some difficult and complicated -[4258.18 --> 4264.82] decisions that may challenge our unity. Keep us strong and allow your spirit to guide our conversations. -[4266.68 --> 4272.52] Our prayer is for those who continue to grieve the loss of loved ones. This week the Van Hemerts will -[4272.52 --> 4278.56] celebrate the life of Pastor John after his faithful journey in ministering in many congregations -[4278.56 --> 4285.26] meetings, including to many of us who are here today. Give Caroline and Glenn your peace as they with their -[4285.26 --> 4292.30] family and friends. Lay that to rest on Tuesday. We pray for the Riesbos family as they continue to grieve -[4292.30 --> 4300.48] the loss of Louise. We pray for Peter, Daryl and Maria, Michael and Suzanne, Sue and Brandon. May they have comfort -[4300.48 --> 4307.02] and strength as they say farewell to an amazing wife, mother and grandmother and friend. -[4307.86 --> 4314.80] We have assurance from the words of the song that we just sang. I am not my own, but belong body and soul -[4314.80 --> 4323.28] in life and in death to you, Lord. Christ my Lord. There are many others that have recently lost loved ones. -[4323.28 --> 4329.98] We pray for your continued presence and peace that passes all understanding. Our prayer are for others that need your -[4329.98 --> 4337.06] healing touch. We think this morning of Judy Dykstra who continues to have some issues and covets your healing touch. -[4337.06 --> 4345.26] We pray for others that may be suffering in silence. May they experience the touch of our great physician who cares for us all. -[4345.26 --> 4353.04] Lord, lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. We live in a broken world, Lord, which -[4353.04 --> 4362.36] lures us to many things of this world and keeps us from doing your will. Keep us strong so we can resist the evil one -[4362.36 --> 4369.76] and look to you for all our wants and needs. We pray this morning that you would anoint Josh as he brings -[4369.76 --> 4380.44] the words that we need to hear as he shares the words of 1 John 5, how we may be confident in approaching your throne of grace. -[4381.44 --> 4389.42] Because yours is the power, the glory, forever and ever. In the name of our precious Savior, we pray. Amen. -[4399.76 --> 4424.16] Hello? Okay. Wonderful. -[4424.16 --> 4434.38] Wonderful. This never gets any less terrifying. Okay. In the first year of the COVID pandemic, -[4435.04 --> 4441.44] I learned the value and the power of habits. How they shape us, keep us on track, how they give us -[4441.44 --> 4448.02] purpose, how they form us and reform us. During that first year of the pandemic, I struggled specifically -[4448.02 --> 4454.14] to keep praying. I prayed in the beginning for a while. I fought the apathy, but eventually I just -[4454.16 --> 4462.24] stopped. I got laid off from my job. School was shut down. Church was shut down. I couldn't see anyone -[4462.24 --> 4469.58] except for my immediate family. I started to not care about anything in life. The days blended together. -[4469.68 --> 4475.42] There was no reason to wake up in the morning. I was going to bed at 5 a.m., waking up at 2 p.m. -[4476.92 --> 4480.80] In middle school, this would have sounded amazing. This was my dream. Do whatever I want, -[4480.80 --> 4485.96] eat whatever I want, and I don't have to leave the comfort of my home. But I didn't realize what -[4485.96 --> 4492.30] happens to your mind when you have no purpose, no patterns, and no habits. In reality, it wasn't -[4492.30 --> 4496.74] that I had no habits. It was that I had made a habit of doing nothing, and that proved destructive. -[4499.48 --> 4504.60] Prayer, as I mentioned, was one of those habits that I stopped practicing. At first, I thought it -[4504.60 --> 4508.36] wasn't that big of a deal. It was because I had this perception that prayer is a tool, -[4508.36 --> 4513.90] a spiritual telephone to get things from God, a way to get what I needed from the one who could get me -[4513.90 --> 4520.62] anything. Don't get me wrong. I would pray for the good times and joy for strength and hard times, -[4520.74 --> 4527.10] for family members, for friends, new moments of spiritual growth, wisdom, humility, courage. -[4527.76 --> 4534.82] We should pray for those things. Prayer is there for us to ask God for what we need from him. -[4534.82 --> 4539.58] Prayer is there for us to cry out to God when we mourn and when we are broken. -[4540.92 --> 4545.18] But the passage we're going to get to today presents an aspect of prayer that I was missing. -[4546.08 --> 4552.74] It's a beautiful and elegant feature in this spiritual act that I think has been lost for -[4552.74 --> 4559.50] me and many others. And this sermon series, Holy Habits, reminds us of this aspect of prayer. -[4559.50 --> 4568.60] And this is the point that it gets to. Prayer is not just a tool to ask for stuff from God. -[4569.30 --> 4575.64] It's not just how we cry out to him in our brokenness and in our pain or praise him in our joy. -[4576.76 --> 4582.86] But it is also a method for the disciple to be unified with the Lord in will and action. -[4582.86 --> 4595.30] Prayer is transformative. It conforms the prayer into the image of Christ. -[4596.58 --> 4599.64] And in our passage today, John teaches us this aspect of prayer. -[4600.46 --> 4604.12] So if you have your Bible, follow along. Or if you have a phone, please use that. -[4604.58 --> 4607.66] The passage today is 1 John 5, 13-16. -[4608.80 --> 4609.54] Here it is. -[4609.54 --> 4617.90] I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life. -[4619.26 --> 4624.06] This is the confidence we have in approaching God, that if we ask anything according to his will, -[4625.30 --> 4626.42] he hears us. -[4627.02 --> 4632.44] And if we know that he hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have what we asked of him. -[4632.44 --> 4640.70] John opens up explicitly presenting the purpose of this passage. -[4641.36 --> 4643.10] He says in verse 13-14, -[4643.28 --> 4646.40] I write this to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, -[4646.76 --> 4649.02] so that you may know that you have eternal life. -[4649.72 --> 4651.80] This is the confidence in approaching God. -[4652.72 --> 4654.58] So right away he addresses his audience. -[4654.58 --> 4664.02] The purpose of this passage is for you, the congregation of Emmanuel, me, James, Ruth, Kaylee. -[4665.24 --> 4667.12] Everything in this passage is for us. -[4668.08 --> 4671.92] If you're a visitor here or have not professed your faith in the name of the Son of God, -[4672.60 --> 4674.18] we here invite you to do so. -[4674.62 --> 4678.46] Because this is the hope that you can expect from the confidence in Christ. -[4679.36 --> 4679.72] Why? -[4679.72 --> 4683.10] So that you may know that you have eternal life. -[4683.86 --> 4686.20] This is the confidence in approaching God. -[4687.82 --> 4691.00] I thought that when I was struggling with prayer during the beginning of the pandemic, -[4691.16 --> 4694.64] I thought prayer was talking to God and telling him how I feel, -[4695.70 --> 4696.54] about what I wanted. -[4697.20 --> 4699.10] But John is telling us something else about prayer. -[4699.92 --> 4701.18] Prayer is all those things. -[4701.76 --> 4704.64] But here John is telling us that implicit in every prayer, -[4705.12 --> 4708.70] there is a reminder of God's gracious promise of eternal life. -[4708.70 --> 4710.38] that when we pray, -[4710.96 --> 4713.92] we are confident in the promise of eternal life. -[4714.34 --> 4716.04] That when we are willing to pray to him, -[4716.58 --> 4717.88] or cry out to him, -[4718.14 --> 4720.84] it's because we actually believe that it works. -[4721.96 --> 4724.98] By praying, we are professing our faith. -[4728.84 --> 4731.62] Our confidence in God's faithfulness. -[4731.62 --> 4734.66] Now, I'm a nerd, -[4734.80 --> 4738.98] so the word for confidence here is a profound choice on John's part, -[4739.32 --> 4742.70] and it's really enlightening to the nature of the confidence we have here in prayer. -[4743.18 --> 4744.72] In the Greek, the word is paratia, -[4745.50 --> 4746.88] which means all outspokenness, -[4747.00 --> 4747.60] frankness, -[4747.82 --> 4748.40] bluntness, -[4748.76 --> 4749.76] a simple assurance, -[4750.24 --> 4750.78] boldness, -[4750.98 --> 4751.40] conviction. -[4752.54 --> 4755.38] John uses this word a few other times in this short passage, -[4755.72 --> 4758.56] and they will help us to see what is so profound about this. -[4758.56 --> 4761.64] So in chapter 2, verse 28, -[4762.30 --> 4762.80] he says, -[4763.26 --> 4764.06] And now, dear children, -[4764.60 --> 4765.34] continue in him, -[4765.52 --> 4766.58] so that when he appears, -[4767.10 --> 4768.78] we may be bold and unashamed -[4768.78 --> 4770.22] before him at his coming. -[4771.94 --> 4773.40] In chapter 3, 21, -[4774.14 --> 4774.50] he says, -[4774.60 --> 4774.98] Dear friend, -[4775.04 --> 4776.34] if our hearts do not condemn us, -[4776.64 --> 4779.02] we have conviction before God. -[4779.86 --> 4780.56] And lastly, -[4780.64 --> 4781.56] in chapter 4, 17, -[4781.56 --> 4784.50] this is how love is made complete among us, -[4784.50 --> 4786.96] so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment. -[4787.76 --> 4788.52] In this world, -[4788.66 --> 4789.42] we are like Jesus. -[4790.54 --> 4793.48] The same confidence that allows us to prepare for Jesus, -[4794.18 --> 4797.24] the same confidence that we have to stand before God on judgment day, -[4797.64 --> 4800.74] the same confidence we have before the living God, -[4801.38 --> 4804.44] is the confidence that we can bring before God in prayer. -[4804.44 --> 4809.74] This confidence in our God is why Paul tells us to never cease praying. -[4810.80 --> 4812.34] 1 Thessalonians 5, 17, -[4813.02 --> 4815.00] Pray without stopping. -[4815.94 --> 4816.66] Pray always. -[4816.94 --> 4817.96] Whenever you can pray, -[4818.46 --> 4818.70] pray. -[4819.20 --> 4820.20] Pray open to God. -[4820.74 --> 4822.46] Let your hearts be exposed to him. -[4822.86 --> 4824.52] Don't try to hide anything from him. -[4824.86 --> 4825.90] You can't anyways. -[4827.44 --> 4829.94] When we can pray with this kind of openness to our God, -[4830.00 --> 4831.66] it means that we are opening our hearts to him. -[4831.66 --> 4835.88] Where for so many years we have tried to cover our sins in shame -[4835.88 --> 4839.52] because we felt we would face the wrath of God for our sin, -[4839.84 --> 4841.76] we can now open our hearts to our Redeemer -[4841.76 --> 4844.74] and be confident in the promise of eternal life. -[4845.38 --> 4846.66] Be persistent in prayer. -[4847.24 --> 4848.22] Don't hold back. -[4848.68 --> 4849.82] Never stop. -[4852.86 --> 4854.08] John goes on to say, -[4855.38 --> 4856.90] this is the confidence in approaching God, -[4857.48 --> 4861.12] that if we ask anything according to his will, -[4861.66 --> 4862.70] he hears us. -[4863.54 --> 4866.00] When we pray according to the will of God, -[4866.54 --> 4868.28] we receive what we ask for. -[4869.82 --> 4872.08] When what we pray is not according to his will, -[4872.64 --> 4875.20] then we won't receive what we asked for, -[4875.62 --> 4877.82] but we will receive what his good will is. -[4877.82 --> 4885.40] Sometimes we think of prayer as a conversation with the divine, -[4885.98 --> 4887.14] and in many ways it is. -[4887.70 --> 4890.12] We have talked about the holy habit of listening to Jesus, -[4890.98 --> 4892.14] yet last Sunday, -[4892.28 --> 4894.42] and today the holy habit of talking with Jesus. -[4895.46 --> 4896.64] It's important to note, however, -[4896.68 --> 4898.72] that the habit is not talking to Jesus, -[4899.00 --> 4901.00] it's talking with Jesus. -[4901.64 --> 4903.08] These habits are not a conversation -[4903.08 --> 4905.00] where we listen through the reading of a word -[4905.00 --> 4907.14] and then respond in prayer and worship. -[4908.04 --> 4910.04] Prayer is the conversation. -[4911.12 --> 4912.96] Prayer isn't a one-sided effort. -[4913.92 --> 4915.42] It's a collaborative grace -[4915.42 --> 4918.14] where we speak with our Savior to the Father. -[4919.18 --> 4921.08] We speak with him according to his will, -[4921.48 --> 4922.82] and by the power of the Holy Spirit, -[4923.02 --> 4924.34] those prayers rise. -[4925.50 --> 4926.78] And when we can't say the words -[4926.78 --> 4929.16] that our souls can't express with conscious words, -[4929.76 --> 4930.96] his Spirit speaks for us -[4930.96 --> 4934.24] knowing that our souls are groaning for our God. -[4936.00 --> 4937.86] Romans 8, 26 to 28 says, -[4938.36 --> 4939.30] In the same way, -[4939.88 --> 4941.50] the Spirit helps us in our weakness. -[4942.38 --> 4944.12] We do not know what we ought to pray for, -[4944.18 --> 4946.48] but the Spirit himself intercedes for us -[4946.48 --> 4947.68] with wordless groans. -[4948.60 --> 4950.26] And he who searches our hearts -[4950.26 --> 4951.96] and knows the mind of the Spirit, -[4952.36 --> 4954.32] because the Spirit intercedes for God's people -[4954.32 --> 4955.84] in accordance with the will of God, -[4956.60 --> 4957.80] and we know that in all things -[4957.80 --> 4959.80] God works for the good of those who love him. -[4959.80 --> 4962.56] who have been called according to his purpose. -[4963.52 --> 4965.54] These two passages from Paul and John -[4965.54 --> 4966.80] blend beautifully together. -[4967.90 --> 4970.38] Where John says he wrote to believers -[4970.38 --> 4971.32] so that they were confident -[4971.32 --> 4973.00] in God's promise of eternal life, -[4974.18 --> 4975.64] Paul says that all things work -[4975.64 --> 4976.88] for the good of those who love him, -[4977.16 --> 4978.90] who have been called according to his purpose. -[4979.78 --> 4982.18] Where John said that if we ask according to his will, -[4982.68 --> 4983.72] then he hears us, -[4983.78 --> 4985.10] and we will receive that of him, -[4985.82 --> 4987.32] Paul says that when we in our weakness -[4987.32 --> 4988.46] don't know what to pray, -[4988.46 --> 4990.82] the Spirit intercedes on our behalf -[4990.82 --> 4993.56] and prays in accordance with God's will for us. -[4995.10 --> 4997.82] Whether we pray in accordance with God's will -[4997.82 --> 4999.00] or we don't, -[5000.70 --> 5003.00] the faithful and good will of God -[5003.00 --> 5003.92] is what we get. -[5005.92 --> 5007.02] Blessed if you do, -[5007.38 --> 5008.40] blessed if you don't. -[5012.34 --> 5013.90] Now you're probably thinking to yourselves, -[5014.34 --> 5016.72] if God's will is what I get either way, -[5016.72 --> 5017.66] whether I pray or not, -[5018.44 --> 5019.54] then why pray? -[5021.68 --> 5023.88] Because John is telling us something. -[5024.46 --> 5025.26] He's telling us this. -[5026.34 --> 5028.90] Prayer is not just a tool -[5028.90 --> 5030.40] to ask stuff from God. -[5031.38 --> 5033.76] It's not just how we cry out to him -[5033.76 --> 5035.60] in our brokenness and in our pain -[5035.60 --> 5037.76] or praise him in our joy. -[5038.58 --> 5040.44] But it is also the method -[5040.44 --> 5042.14] for the disciple to be unified -[5042.14 --> 5044.76] with the Lord in will and action. -[5045.70 --> 5047.76] Paul tells us to never stop praying -[5047.76 --> 5049.46] because when we pray over -[5049.46 --> 5051.26] and over and over again -[5051.26 --> 5051.90] in repetition, -[5052.26 --> 5053.32] we form patterns -[5053.32 --> 5055.06] and in patterns we form habit. -[5055.56 --> 5057.14] And in doing it again and again, -[5057.54 --> 5059.32] we are faced with that faithfulness, -[5059.68 --> 5060.50] with that confidence, -[5061.06 --> 5062.48] with that promise of good will -[5062.48 --> 5063.46] and eternal life. -[5064.00 --> 5066.04] When we pray over and over again, -[5066.24 --> 5067.58] we come close and make contact -[5067.58 --> 5069.34] with that incomprehensibly good will -[5069.34 --> 5070.98] and we start to live in it. -[5071.42 --> 5073.06] Instead of trying to get what we want, -[5073.30 --> 5074.84] we start to pray what he wants -[5074.84 --> 5078.52] and we start to pray for that good will. -[5079.10 --> 5080.98] We start to pray for that promised land -[5080.98 --> 5083.58] and we start to be more like Jesus -[5083.58 --> 5085.34] crying out to his father -[5085.34 --> 5086.32] the night he was betrayed. -[5087.16 --> 5088.86] Father, if you are willing, -[5089.54 --> 5090.56] take this cup from me. -[5091.70 --> 5092.76] Yet not my will, -[5093.08 --> 5094.02] but yours be done. -[5095.02 --> 5096.48] When Jesus cried out to help, -[5096.48 --> 5097.46] he knew that the help -[5097.46 --> 5098.98] was not in getting what he wanted, -[5099.34 --> 5101.56] but rather the help was in God's will. -[5102.58 --> 5104.80] Our prayers and actions -[5104.80 --> 5106.86] and our praises -[5106.86 --> 5108.76] start to sound like this, -[5109.34 --> 5110.80] like our Lord's prayers. -[5112.00 --> 5113.58] Jesus poured out his pain -[5113.58 --> 5115.26] and fear and terror -[5115.26 --> 5116.60] to his father, -[5116.98 --> 5118.24] but let all of that go -[5118.24 --> 5120.80] knowing that his father's will was good -[5120.80 --> 5122.24] and being confident -[5122.24 --> 5123.58] in the promise of eternal life -[5123.58 --> 5125.06] for him and everyone -[5125.06 --> 5126.06] who would believe in his name -[5126.06 --> 5126.82] like John wrote. -[5126.82 --> 5129.40] Jesus is unifying his will -[5129.40 --> 5130.28] with his father's. -[5133.78 --> 5135.24] Now all that being said, -[5136.24 --> 5138.84] what do we today do with this? -[5139.86 --> 5141.02] How does this affect -[5141.02 --> 5142.10] our daily worship -[5142.10 --> 5143.10] and prayers? -[5143.60 --> 5144.60] How does this affect -[5144.60 --> 5145.76] how we talk with Jesus? -[5147.66 --> 5148.80] Or how should this shape -[5148.80 --> 5150.62] how we live this holy habit? -[5150.62 --> 5153.10] Now it's important to remember -[5153.10 --> 5153.80] that the affect -[5153.80 --> 5154.76] comes through repetition -[5154.76 --> 5156.02] which forms habit. -[5156.74 --> 5157.82] And there will be moments -[5157.82 --> 5158.82] where we fall out of habit -[5158.82 --> 5159.80] like I did, -[5159.90 --> 5160.90] but remember the spirit -[5160.90 --> 5161.62] prays for you -[5161.62 --> 5163.00] even when you don't. -[5165.20 --> 5165.52] Okay. -[5165.92 --> 5166.92] There are four ways -[5166.92 --> 5168.16] this habit should affect us. -[5168.84 --> 5169.30] Number one, -[5170.14 --> 5171.08] it should affect our mindset. -[5171.78 --> 5173.16] When we go into prayer, -[5173.44 --> 5174.98] we don't have to go in half-hearted -[5174.98 --> 5176.20] because we're not sure -[5176.20 --> 5176.74] that we will get -[5176.74 --> 5177.86] what we requested of God. -[5177.86 --> 5180.62] We can go into prayer -[5180.62 --> 5181.60] with the assurance -[5181.60 --> 5182.66] and the confidence -[5182.66 --> 5183.90] that when we open -[5183.90 --> 5184.76] our hearts to God, -[5185.46 --> 5186.64] that we will receive -[5186.64 --> 5188.08] the blessings of eternal life -[5188.08 --> 5189.58] according to his will -[5189.58 --> 5190.60] for us -[5190.60 --> 5191.38] because we believe -[5191.38 --> 5192.92] that Jesus is the son of God -[5192.92 --> 5193.84] and we believe -[5193.84 --> 5194.82] that he is faithful. -[5196.70 --> 5197.18] Two, -[5197.86 --> 5198.56] it should affect -[5198.56 --> 5199.56] what we pray for. -[5201.12 --> 5202.00] When we pray, -[5202.08 --> 5202.76] we can start to pray -[5202.76 --> 5204.08] what is actually good -[5204.08 --> 5205.18] and what is according -[5205.18 --> 5205.82] to God's will. -[5205.82 --> 5207.00] Like Jesus, -[5207.14 --> 5208.62] we can openly praise God -[5208.62 --> 5209.78] and express our fears, -[5210.00 --> 5210.58] our joys, -[5210.98 --> 5211.78] our sorrows, -[5212.20 --> 5213.02] our anxieties, -[5213.42 --> 5214.40] and petition God -[5214.40 --> 5216.04] for our heart's desires. -[5217.20 --> 5218.84] But we will additionally pray -[5218.84 --> 5220.38] that God's good will be done -[5220.38 --> 5221.48] and not ours. -[5222.16 --> 5223.56] As we continue to pray -[5223.56 --> 5225.16] and form a habit, -[5225.64 --> 5226.62] we will start to see -[5226.62 --> 5227.66] and understand -[5227.66 --> 5228.48] more clearly -[5228.48 --> 5230.18] what the Father's will is. -[5231.68 --> 5232.28] Three, -[5232.98 --> 5234.10] they should also affect -[5234.10 --> 5234.96] how we behave towards -[5234.96 --> 5235.46] our church -[5235.46 --> 5236.24] and our community. -[5237.12 --> 5237.78] When we are faced -[5237.78 --> 5238.26] with the promise -[5238.26 --> 5239.02] of God's good will -[5239.02 --> 5239.84] and eternal life, -[5240.20 --> 5244.06] we start to see God's good will -[5244.06 --> 5245.32] is not just for ourselves -[5245.32 --> 5247.14] but for the whole body of Christ. -[5247.84 --> 5248.72] We start to witness -[5248.72 --> 5249.72] the power that the promise -[5249.72 --> 5250.54] has on each other. -[5251.20 --> 5252.10] We see communally, -[5252.66 --> 5253.44] as we pray, -[5253.60 --> 5255.32] as we communally praise God -[5255.32 --> 5256.54] and pray with him, -[5256.84 --> 5257.50] we see the effect -[5257.50 --> 5258.34] that it has on others. -[5258.84 --> 5260.04] We see that God's promise -[5260.04 --> 5260.46] is for, -[5261.14 --> 5261.94] it's not just for us -[5261.94 --> 5262.70] but also our brothers -[5262.70 --> 5263.58] and sisters as well. -[5264.28 --> 5265.06] And we start to pray -[5265.06 --> 5266.12] for God's will for them. -[5267.60 --> 5268.36] On the 8th, -[5268.40 --> 5269.22] we had the prayer night -[5269.22 --> 5270.88] and there were many of us -[5270.88 --> 5272.14] and we prayed for many issues -[5272.14 --> 5273.08] facing our church -[5273.08 --> 5274.38] and the greater church at large. -[5275.04 --> 5277.06] We opened our hearts to God. -[5277.60 --> 5279.16] We prayed for leaders -[5279.16 --> 5279.98] and marriages -[5279.98 --> 5281.14] and mental health -[5281.14 --> 5282.14] and political divisions -[5282.14 --> 5284.14] and it was good -[5284.14 --> 5286.18] and we left there confident -[5286.18 --> 5286.90] that God's will -[5286.90 --> 5288.58] would actually happen. -[5288.58 --> 5290.62] fourth, -[5291.62 --> 5292.26] they should affect -[5292.26 --> 5293.44] how we act in the world. -[5294.66 --> 5295.42] When we start to see -[5295.42 --> 5296.42] how the power of prayer -[5296.42 --> 5297.30] and praising God -[5297.30 --> 5298.26] works in our lives -[5298.26 --> 5299.48] transformatively, -[5299.60 --> 5300.40] we see the desire -[5300.40 --> 5301.08] that God has -[5301.08 --> 5301.62] for the broken -[5301.62 --> 5302.40] and the lost. -[5303.20 --> 5304.06] We start to think -[5304.06 --> 5305.46] missionally towards the world -[5305.46 --> 5308.12] and those who are not yet -[5308.12 --> 5309.16] part of the body of believers -[5309.16 --> 5310.16] who profess the name -[5310.16 --> 5311.00] of Jesus Christ -[5311.00 --> 5311.92] and therefore -[5311.92 --> 5313.28] confidently approach God. -[5314.24 --> 5315.12] We start to work -[5315.12 --> 5316.22] in accordance with God -[5316.22 --> 5317.58] to pray for those -[5317.58 --> 5318.48] who do not know him. -[5319.08 --> 5319.68] We start to work -[5319.68 --> 5320.46] in accordance with God -[5320.46 --> 5321.50] to draw them actively -[5321.50 --> 5322.60] to the body of Christ. -[5325.26 --> 5326.44] To end this off here, -[5327.96 --> 5329.58] here are some practical examples -[5329.58 --> 5330.70] of how we can live this out -[5330.70 --> 5331.68] in our lives today. -[5332.98 --> 5333.88] In the Holy Habits -[5333.88 --> 5334.68] companion guide -[5334.68 --> 5335.76] that you all have, -[5336.30 --> 5337.44] you will find four examples -[5337.44 --> 5338.12] of how to practice -[5338.12 --> 5338.76] the holy habit -[5338.76 --> 5339.92] of talking with Jesus. -[5340.88 --> 5341.96] If you don't have one, -[5342.00 --> 5342.86] I'm sure that you can get one -[5342.86 --> 5343.32] in the office -[5343.32 --> 5344.48] or at the Sunday school desk -[5344.48 --> 5345.58] right outside that window. -[5346.80 --> 5347.78] But I want to highlight -[5347.78 --> 5349.16] two examples, -[5349.46 --> 5350.20] the first two examples -[5350.20 --> 5350.80] in the workbook. -[5351.30 --> 5352.72] The first is an individual example -[5352.72 --> 5353.18] and the other -[5353.18 --> 5354.12] is a communal example. -[5355.18 --> 5355.54] First, -[5356.48 --> 5357.86] set an alarm or two -[5357.86 --> 5358.84] on a day when you know -[5358.84 --> 5359.54] that you will be free -[5359.54 --> 5360.32] at a time you will know -[5360.32 --> 5360.98] you will be free. -[5361.60 --> 5362.38] Like a break -[5362.38 --> 5363.48] or when you wake up, etc. -[5364.08 --> 5365.38] When the alarm goes off, -[5366.50 --> 5366.70] pray. -[5367.92 --> 5368.80] I like this one -[5368.80 --> 5370.02] because the pattern it sets. -[5370.80 --> 5372.06] Dedicating a time to pray -[5372.06 --> 5372.96] or worship to God -[5372.96 --> 5373.54] specifically -[5373.54 --> 5375.28] for no other reason -[5375.28 --> 5377.42] then to do so -[5377.42 --> 5378.34] is huge -[5378.34 --> 5379.96] and make sure -[5379.96 --> 5380.58] that the practice -[5380.58 --> 5381.34] is habit forming. -[5382.02 --> 5383.22] Usually we attach prayer -[5383.22 --> 5383.88] or worship -[5383.88 --> 5384.84] to other activities. -[5385.66 --> 5386.18] When we eat, -[5386.36 --> 5386.72] we pray. -[5386.96 --> 5387.62] When we go to bed, -[5387.72 --> 5388.12] we pray. -[5388.40 --> 5389.18] When we start a meeting, -[5389.32 --> 5389.72] we pray. -[5390.84 --> 5391.60] But we just rush -[5391.60 --> 5392.60] through a rehearsed prayer -[5392.60 --> 5393.92] and move to the task at hand. -[5394.72 --> 5395.82] And though those prayers -[5395.82 --> 5396.88] are good and habit forming, -[5397.20 --> 5398.68] they rarely dig deep -[5398.68 --> 5399.92] into the heart of the matter. -[5399.92 --> 5402.22] When we set time -[5402.22 --> 5402.94] to pray alone -[5402.94 --> 5403.84] or worship alone, -[5404.72 --> 5405.50] we can dig deep -[5405.50 --> 5406.52] and work with the Spirit -[5406.52 --> 5407.70] so that God can actively -[5407.70 --> 5409.28] form our wills -[5409.28 --> 5410.20] in accordance with His. -[5411.78 --> 5412.22] Number two, -[5413.34 --> 5414.78] get a community together -[5414.78 --> 5416.68] to pray in an ongoing manner -[5416.68 --> 5417.22] where the members -[5417.22 --> 5418.50] rotate who they pray for -[5418.50 --> 5420.08] so everyone in the group -[5420.08 --> 5420.98] is praying for someone -[5420.98 --> 5422.72] and is being prayed for. -[5423.84 --> 5424.94] In the young adults, -[5425.14 --> 5425.84] we do this. -[5425.92 --> 5426.12] It's called -[5426.12 --> 5426.94] the Rotating Prayer Group. -[5427.06 --> 5428.08] Not a very inventive name. -[5428.08 --> 5430.12] Any young adults -[5430.12 --> 5431.20] can join at any time. -[5431.80 --> 5432.34] And this aspect -[5432.34 --> 5432.92] of our ministry -[5432.92 --> 5434.44] was huge for those -[5434.44 --> 5435.86] who, like myself -[5435.86 --> 5436.68] during the pandemic, -[5437.64 --> 5438.82] struggled with loneliness. -[5440.70 --> 5441.70] God helped me -[5441.70 --> 5443.28] get out of my apathetic mindset -[5443.28 --> 5446.14] about life and prayer -[5446.14 --> 5447.00] because suddenly -[5447.00 --> 5447.96] it wasn't about me. -[5448.58 --> 5449.70] It was about the community. -[5451.06 --> 5452.54] The group still does it now -[5452.54 --> 5453.16] and we're about to enter -[5453.16 --> 5454.06] our second year of prayer -[5454.06 --> 5455.56] and it is awesome, -[5456.42 --> 5457.00] as Kevin said. -[5459.08 --> 5460.46] There are more practical examples -[5460.46 --> 5461.16] we could lay out -[5461.16 --> 5462.38] and there are more in the book -[5462.38 --> 5463.38] that are, -[5463.88 --> 5464.94] but really the habit -[5464.94 --> 5466.16] is formed through repetition, -[5466.88 --> 5468.16] consistent repetition. -[5469.00 --> 5469.84] And ultimately the hope -[5469.84 --> 5470.80] is that we start to pray -[5470.80 --> 5471.78] like Paul says -[5471.78 --> 5473.10] in 1 Thessalonians, -[5473.64 --> 5474.74] without ceasing. -[5475.54 --> 5476.54] Because the more -[5476.54 --> 5478.78] we confidently approach prayer -[5478.78 --> 5480.12] as a means of grace -[5480.12 --> 5481.88] to fuel our lives of faith, -[5482.40 --> 5483.62] the more we as disciples -[5483.62 --> 5484.16] of Jesus -[5484.16 --> 5485.90] will be unified with Him -[5485.90 --> 5487.30] in will and action. -[5489.80 --> 5491.76] Let us confidently pray together -[5491.76 --> 5492.56] to our God. -[5498.32 --> 5498.68] Father, -[5499.14 --> 5500.86] thank you for this day. -[5501.70 --> 5502.64] Thank you for the love -[5502.64 --> 5503.78] that you've shown this church -[5503.78 --> 5505.96] and how much you've helped us. -[5506.54 --> 5507.32] I pray for all those -[5507.32 --> 5508.30] who have professed their faith -[5508.30 --> 5508.92] and all the children -[5508.92 --> 5509.54] that have graduated -[5509.54 --> 5510.36] Sunday School, Lord. -[5510.92 --> 5511.82] I pray that they would be -[5511.82 --> 5513.10] confident in their faith. -[5513.10 --> 5515.00] I pray that we would all -[5515.00 --> 5515.78] be confident in our faith -[5515.78 --> 5516.06] in you. -[5516.82 --> 5517.98] And thank you for the assurance -[5517.98 --> 5519.32] of eternal life. -[5520.00 --> 5521.02] In Jesus' name, Lord, I pray. -[5521.34 --> 5521.52] Amen. -[5521.52 --> 5521.62] Amen. -[5521.62 --> 5528.26] Please stand with us. -[5528.26 --> 5551.44] I have a maker -[5551.44 --> 5558.44] He formed my heart -[5558.44 --> 5564.34] Before even time began -[5564.34 --> 5571.08] My life was in His hand -[5571.08 --> 5576.82] He knows my name -[5576.82 --> 5585.06] He knows my every thought -[5585.06 --> 5590.74] He sees each tear that falls -[5590.74 --> 5594.76] And hears me when I go -[5594.76 --> 5605.50] I have a father -[5605.50 --> 5610.66] He calls me His own -[5610.66 --> 5618.24] He'll never leave me -[5618.24 --> 5622.86] No matter where I go -[5622.86 --> 5629.84] He knows my name -[5629.84 --> 5637.06] He knows my every thought -[5637.06 --> 5643.24] He sees each tear that falls -[5643.24 --> 5673.22] And hears me when I go -[5673.22 --> 5680.22] And hears me when I go -[5680.22 --> 5681.22] And hears me when I go -[5681.22 --> 5697.30] Here's God's blessing -[5697.30 --> 5699.12] The Lord bless you -[5699.12 --> 5699.86] And keep you -[5699.86 --> 5701.30] The Lord make His face -[5701.30 --> 5701.92] Shine on you -[5701.92 --> 5703.30] And be gracious to you -[5703.30 --> 5704.82] The Lord turn His face -[5704.82 --> 5705.42] Towards you -[5705.42 --> 5706.72] And give you peace -[5706.72 --> 5707.30] Amen -[5707.30 --> 5719.30] Amen -[5719.30 --> 5729.66] Amen -[5729.66 --> 5731.30] Amen -[5731.30 --> 5733.72] Amen -[5733.72 --> 5736.30] Amen -[5736.30 --> 5736.54] Amen -[5736.54 --> 5736.74] Amen -[5738.30 --> 5740.94] Amen -[5740.94 --> 5751.80] Lord bless you and keep you -[5751.80 --> 5756.26] Make his face shine upon you -[5756.26 --> 5759.28] Be gracious to you -[5759.28 --> 5766.08] Lord turn his face toward you -[5766.08 --> 5772.56] And give you peace -[5772.56 --> 5783.32] Lord bless you and keep you -[5783.32 --> 5787.78] Make his face shine upon you -[5787.78 --> 5790.78] Be gracious to you -[5790.78 --> 5797.26] Lord turn his face toward you -[5797.26 --> 5802.78] And give you peace -[5802.78 --> 5810.78] Amen -[5810.78 --> 5814.78] Amen -[5814.78 --> 5818.78] Amen -[5818.78 --> 5824.78] Amen -[5824.78 --> 5828.78] Amen -[5828.78 --> 5830.78] Amen -[5830.78 --> 5832.78] Amen -[5832.78 --> 5836.78] Amen -[5837.26 --> 5838.78] Amen -[5838.78 --> 5842.78] Amen -[5842.78 --> 5844.78] Amen -[5844.78 --> 5846.78] Amen -[5846.78 --> 5851.10] Please favor be upon you -[5851.10 --> 5854.26] And a thousand generations -[5854.26 --> 5856.14] And your family -[5856.14 --> 5858.02] And your children -[5858.02 --> 5859.78] And their children -[5859.78 --> 5861.52] And their children -[5861.52 --> 5865.32] May his favor be upon you -[5865.32 --> 5868.58] And a thousand generations -[5868.58 --> 5870.50] And your family -[5870.50 --> 5871.78] And your children -[5872.40 --> 5873.78] And their children -[5874.38 --> 5875.90] And their children -[5875.90 --> 5879.66] May His favor be upon you -[5879.66 --> 5882.86] And a thousand generations -[5882.86 --> 5886.62] And your family and your children -[5886.62 --> 5889.86] And their children and their children -[5889.86 --> 5893.60] May His presence go before you -[5893.60 --> 5897.08] And behind you and beside you -[5897.08 --> 5900.46] All around you and within you -[5900.46 --> 5903.92] He is with you, He is with you -[5903.92 --> 5907.00] In the morning, in the evening -[5907.00 --> 5910.56] If you're coming and you're going -[5910.56 --> 5914.10] If you're leaving and rejoicing -[5914.10 --> 5929.54] He is for you, He is for you -[5929.54 --> 5942.10] Amen, Amen, Amen -[5942.10 --> 5955.68] Amen, Amen, Amen -[5955.68 --> 5969.96] Amen, Amen, Amen -[5969.96 --> 5985.66] Amen, Amen, Amen -[5985.68 --> 6015.66] Amen, Amen, Amen -[6015.68 --> 6045.66] Amen, Amen, Amen -[6045.68 --> 6075.66] Amen, Amen, Amen -[6075.68 --> 6105.66] Amen, Amen, Amen -[6105.68 --> 6106.42] Amen, Amen, Amen -[6135.68 --> 6165.66] Amen, Amen, Amen diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 26, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 26, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 46c58fd0af8081813332aec706b1af3edcf00546..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 26, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,118 +0,0 @@ -• The struggle to admit vulnerability and imperfection -• The importance of honesty in fixing problems -• The concept of "coming as you are" and the contrast between this ideal and the reality of many churches -• The idea that church should be a safe place for people to face their flaws and weaknesses -• The difficulty of being truthful about one's emotions and struggles -• The theme of God's love and presence being higher and greater than human understanding or control -• Upcoming events and discussions after worship, including a review of Synod 2022 -• Announcements for visitors and newcomers to fill out contact forms -• Invitation to stand and receive blessings from God -• Reading of Psalm 68 and singing of hymns, specifically "You Are Good" and "Blessed Be the Name of the Lord" -• Worship and praise to God's name -• Desiring a deeper understanding of God's faithfulness -• Struggling with chronic distrust and disquietedness -• Needing Sabbath rest and fellowship with God and others -• Invitation to come to the fountain and receive mercy and healing -• Call for the Holy Spirit and Jesus to come -• The congregation sings a song about the sufficiency of God's grace -• Tim and Charity Johnson's work with Native American youth is mentioned, including their efforts to develop relationships and understanding of their Creator and His love -• The need for prayer and preparation is acknowledged due to challenges faced in the community -• Philippians 1:3-6 is read as a passage of scripture -• A special offering is collected for Refugee Chaplain Dina Nikolai -• Hymns are sung, including "Holy, Worthy" and "Now and Forever After" -• A prayer of thanksgiving is offered for the church's generosity and ability to equip its members in their spiritual battle -• Gathering in God's presence with mixed emotions and circumstances -• Requesting a unified experience of God's presence despite diversity -• Acknowledging the coexistence of mourning and rejoicing, celebration and lament -• Praying for peace, an end to war, and protection for those affected by conflict -• Asking God to work through global discussions and conversations, including the G7 summit in Germany -• Requesting the spread of God's gospel and kingdom through missionaries on the ground in Ukraine and other war-torn countries -• Strained and broken relationships with indigenous citizens -• Request for reconciliation across the country -• Prayer for political leaders to serve with integrity -• Request for meaningful connection and relationship, rather than just words -• Thanking public servants for their willingness to serve -• Praying for the right people to be in leadership positions to accomplish God's will -• Recognition of leaders in the Christian Reformed Church -• Introduction of new leadership in the denomination -• Praise for God's sovereignty and provision in leadership positions -• Requests for congregational relationships and denominational covenant to be more than just in name but in practice and function -• Prayer for offerings collected for ministries -• Thanking God for work done through the church, its members, and missionaries -• Prayers for specific individuals (Tim, Charity, and Megan) and their work -• Request for congregational meeting and celebration of life events -• Praying for a healthy and strong baby to be born in December -• Thanking God for Harry's survival of a serious workplace accident -• Asking for healing and protection for Harry as he recovers from his injuries -• Praying for Robin and their family during this time of need -• Seeking God's intervention in struggling relationships between individuals -• Mourning and grief for the Rezabas family after losing a loved one -• Prayer for comfort, hope, and guidance in times of sorrow -• Recognition of Reverend John Van Hamert's passing and prayer for his family and extended church community -• Request for God's presence and support during difficult moments -• Feeling overwhelmed by life's demands and schedule -• Church activities and events, including congregational meeting and year-end activities -• Ministry and volunteer work within the church -• Celebrating and mourning personal milestones and faith professions -• Request for spiritual guidance and support amidst chaos -• Children's worship time is mentioned, highlighting new life and challenges in the church. -• The pastor acknowledges struggles with weddings, funerals, hospital visits, and everyday busyness. -• Some audience members empathize, while others roll their eyes at the pastor's struggles. -• The pastor suggests that a response to life's demands should be different from just trudging along as normal. -• Today's "holy habit" is finding rest in community, with three topics: rest, obedience, and community. -• Two texts will be used to explore this topic: Matthew 11 verses 28-30. -• Jesus offers rest to those who come to Him -• People often seek rest in various activities, but not necessarily in Christ -• Rest is found in taking on God's work, obeying His commands, and following Him -• Jesus' yoke is a symbol of the work He has called us to do for Him -• True rest comes from trusting in what Jesus accomplished on our behalf. -• Importance of rest in faith -• Obedience as a fundamental aspect of faith -• Community and fellowship with others -• Counteracting the cultural idols of busyness, autonomy, and individualism -• The need for awareness of and resistance to these idols in order to follow Christ -• Rest and Sabbath as a day of resistance against busyness and work addiction -• God's commandment to remember the Sabbath day in Exodus 20:8-10 -• Jesus' challenge to the Jewish people to observe the Sabbath well, rather than turning it into a day of rules (Mark 2:23-28) -• The concept of rest as a day to slow down and be with God and others -• The decline of the idea of Sabbath in modern culture -• Rest and busyness as cultural norms -• Critique of the emphasis on busyness as a mark of success -• Examples of successful individuals boasting about working long hours (Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Kevin O'Leary) -• Discussion of how answering "I'm busy" is often used to mask underlying issues or feelings of inadequacy -• The problem with defining busyness in absolute terms and the importance of context -• The importance of being busy and its association with success -• Church attendance declining due to busyness and other priorities -• God desires faithfulness and rest in Him, not busyness -• Shifting focus from self-orientation to God-oriented living -• Importance of slowing down and practicing Sabbath rest -• Obedience as a counter to autonomy and its problems -• The dangers of autonomy and self-governance without accountability -• Identity rooted in self-love and individualism rather than a relationship with Christ -• The creation of echo chambers and the reinforcement of confirmation biases -• The influence of algorithms and social media on shaping one's worldview -• The problem of people siloing themselves from others and losing objectivity -• God's desire for His children to submit to Him rather than seeking their own truths -• God's love calls us to selfless obedience -• Obedience is key to living as the body of Christ and resisting individualism -• Community is a response to obedience and an act of resistance against individualism -• We must leave our silos and echo chambers behind to live in accordance with God's word -• The importance of community in a church setting -• How individualism can hinder true community -• The need to shift focus from personal gain to serving others -• The benefits of putting others' needs before one's own -• The role of Jesus in creating and sustaining true community -• A quote from Dietrich Bonhoeffer on the importance of community -• The importance of Christ in knowing and loving one another -• Overcoming individualism through the way of Jesus Christ -• The role of Jesus as the mediator between God and humanity to eternity -• The gospel truth of Christ's life, death, and resurrection -• The call to obedience to live for Christ and others -• Building community by meeting together, sharing meals, and encouraging one another -• Resting in God's family through prayer, meditation, and obedience -• Repeatedly singing "Jesus, Jesus" hymn -• Congregational meeting announcement -• Reminder for non-members to stay and learn about the church -• Reading of priestly blessing from Numbers 6 -• Prayer and declaration of God's peace, grace, and fellowship -• Closing hymn announcement \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 26, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 26, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 20736886522c7b9f2855b04884c0c9a7e5de2dd0..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 26, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2216 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 5.76] I say it's under control, but it's not, and you know it. -[6.58 --> 13.52] I don't know why it's so hard to admit it, when being honest is the only way to fix it. -[14.00 --> 18.86] There's no failure, no fall, there's no sin, you don't already know. -[19.50 --> 22.50] So let the truth be told. -[22.50 --> 34.42] There's a sign on the door that says come as you are, but I doubt it. -[36.46 --> 41.74] Cause if we lived like that was true, every Sunday morning pew would be crowded. -[44.96 --> 49.50] But didn't you say church would look more like a hospital? -[49.50 --> 58.70] A safe place for the sick, the sinner in the scarred and the prodigal's like me. -[60.46 --> 62.62] Will truth be told? -[63.74 --> 66.80] The truth is rarely told. -[68.56 --> 75.10] Oh, am I the only one who says I'm fine, yeah I'm fine, oh I'm fine, yeah I'm fine. -[75.10 --> 77.92] But I'm not, I'm broken. -[78.58 --> 82.10] And when it's out of control, I say it's under control. -[82.82 --> 85.82] But it's not, and you know it. -[86.58 --> 93.46] I don't know why it's so hard to admit it, when being honest is the only way to fix it. -[94.06 --> 98.80] There's no failure, no fall, there's no sin, you don't already know. -[98.80 --> 102.72] So let the truth be told. -[102.92 --> 106.50] Can I really stand here unashamed? -[106.80 --> 110.36] Knowing that your love for me won't change. -[110.88 --> 118.04] Oh God, if that's really true, then let the truth be told. -[118.04 --> 125.86] I say I'm fine, yeah I'm fine, oh I'm fine, hey I'm fine, but I'm not. -[126.34 --> 132.16] I'm broken, and when it's out of control, I say it's under control. -[132.34 --> 135.32] But it's not, and you know it. -[136.10 --> 142.98] I don't know why it's so hard to admit it, when being honest is the only way to fix it. -[142.98 --> 148.46] There's no failure, no fall, there's no sin, you don't already know. -[148.98 --> 150.10] Yeah, I know. -[150.90 --> 155.96] There's no failure, no fall, there's no sin, you don't already know. -[156.58 --> 160.02] So let the truth be told. -[160.02 --> 176.58] Higher than all, higher than any thought could go. -[177.02 --> 181.06] You go beyond, your thoughts reaching heights unknown. -[181.52 --> 185.62] Better than all, better than what I think I know. -[185.62 --> 190.16] You show the way, leading me to the life you hold. -[190.66 --> 194.82] You, give me a life, I'm filled with purpose. -[195.28 --> 199.20] You, teach me how to trust what's true. -[199.80 --> 203.74] You, open my heart more than I imagined. -[204.30 --> 208.32] You, you're ways higher than my heart. -[208.74 --> 212.26] Higher than mine, higher than mine, higher than mine. -[212.26 --> 216.60] Higher than mine, you're ways higher than mine. -[217.60 --> 221.34] Higher than mine, higher than mine, higher than mine. -[222.14 --> 225.60] Higher than mine, you're ways higher than mine. -[226.70 --> 230.74] Heaven above, heaven above my heart below. -[231.36 --> 235.46] You make a way for my heart to reach your throne. -[235.84 --> 239.94] Greater than all, greater than what the earth could hold. -[239.94 --> 243.96] You, you are the way, leading me to make it. -[244.98 --> 249.04] You, give me a life, I'm filled with purpose. -[249.62 --> 253.54] You, teach me how to trust what's true. -[254.10 --> 258.10] You, open my heart more than I imagined. -[258.68 --> 262.40] You, you're ways higher than mine. -[262.94 --> 266.60] Higher than mine, higher than mine, higher than mine. -[266.60 --> 270.94] Higher than mine, you're ways higher than mine. -[271.76 --> 275.70] Higher than mine, higher than mine. -[276.28 --> 279.94] Higher than mine, you're ways higher than mine. -[280.82 --> 293.94] You, give me a life, I'm filled with purpose. -[293.94 --> 300.74] is you teach me how to trust with you -[300.74 --> 305.94] open my mind -[323.94 --> 343.94] higher than mine -[353.94 --> 367.94] higher than mine -[367.94 --> 372.94] higher than mine -[372.94 --> 376.94] higher than mine -[376.94 --> 382.94] higher than mine -[382.94 --> 403.94] higher than mine -[403.94 --> 407.94] higher thanxa -[407.94 --> 411.94] higher than mine -[412.94 --> 420.70] Good. -[424.70 --> 426.18] How about now? -[426.80 --> 427.26] Okay. -[427.58 --> 428.44] Good morning. -[429.36 --> 431.16] If you weren't awake, now you are. -[431.68 --> 434.18] Welcome to worship. -[434.32 --> 441.82] We are so excited to gather together today and so grateful for all of you who have made -[441.82 --> 445.10] the right choice in spite of the beautiful weather outside. -[445.26 --> 448.06] You're here with us this morning and so thank you for that. -[448.14 --> 449.32] We're really excited. -[449.42 --> 450.74] I honestly had no idea. -[450.90 --> 455.22] This is the first beautiful weekend we've had in a really long time it feels like and -[455.22 --> 458.88] so thank you for joining with us in worship. -[459.00 --> 460.62] If you're visiting with us, my name is Chris. -[460.86 --> 466.82] I'm one of the pastors here and I, along with a few others, will be leading you in our worship -[466.82 --> 468.14] together this morning. -[468.14 --> 475.80] So, following our worship this morning, we are having a congregational meeting to approve -[475.80 --> 482.48] the financial statement for 2021 and the slate of nominations for new office bearers. -[482.98 --> 487.30] If you're visiting with us this morning, we just appreciate your grace and patience. -[487.54 --> 492.36] There will be refreshments at the back and so you can hang out there and enjoy that while -[492.36 --> 496.44] we take care of some business here or you can sit and see what that's like. -[496.44 --> 500.96] That's entirely up to you, but we will do that immediately following our worship together -[500.96 --> 501.46] this morning. -[502.52 --> 508.06] Following that yet, after you have a chance to grab a coffee or something, if you are -[508.06 --> 516.44] interested in reviewing or recapping or hearing the story of Synod 2022 of the Christian Reformed -[516.44 --> 520.20] Church, I will be facilitating that conversation in the multipurpose room. -[520.20 --> 525.76] And so, that's just down the, what is that, the west hallway right there, the first door -[525.76 --> 526.76] there. -[526.76 --> 529.12] So, you can join us there for that discussion. -[529.12 --> 532.54] I believe that's it as far as announcements go. -[532.54 --> 539.04] If I missed one, it's in our e-bulletin which is sent out to those people who have submitted -[539.04 --> 540.16] their emails to the office. -[540.16 --> 543.52] And so, you can find out more information there. -[544.06 --> 547.34] If you are visiting with us, we encourage you to grab one of these forms. -[547.48 --> 550.08] They're on the back desk or there's a little QR code. -[550.18 --> 552.74] You can scan that with your phone and they'll take you to a link. -[552.84 --> 556.94] We would love to hear from you and connect with you, have the chance to pray for you, -[557.08 --> 561.64] hear about your needs and how we might be able to, as a church family, meet them here -[561.64 --> 562.34] together. -[562.34 --> 569.54] Whether you are a regular worshiper with us or whether you are visiting and however you -[569.54 --> 574.68] are able, I want to invite you to stand and we can be ushered into the presence of our -[574.68 --> 575.18] good God. -[579.54 --> 583.06] We gather as believers in the Lord Jesus Christ. -[583.26 --> 589.78] We gather in his name and we gather under his greeting and so receive the greeting of our -[589.78 --> 590.26] good God. -[590.26 --> 598.42] grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son -[598.42 --> 602.88] and our Savior through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[604.06 --> 604.42] Amen. -[607.84 --> 610.72] Psalm 68, verses 4 to 10. -[611.72 --> 617.62] Sing to God, sing in praise of his name, extol him who rides on the clouds. -[617.62 --> 625.42] Rejoice before him, his name is the Lord, a father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, -[625.52 --> 627.32] is God in his holy dwelling. -[628.18 --> 630.30] God sets the lonely in families. -[631.04 --> 636.78] He leads out the prisoners with singing, but the rebellious live in a sun-scorched land. -[637.56 --> 643.10] When you, God, went out before your people, when you marched through the wilderness, the earth -[643.10 --> 650.80] shook, the heavens poured down rain before God, the one of Sinai, before God, the God of Israel. -[651.30 --> 653.62] You gave abundant showers, O God. -[654.18 --> 656.26] You refreshed your weary inheritance. -[657.14 --> 659.14] Your flock found a dwelling on it. -[659.48 --> 663.04] And in your goodness, God, you provided for the poor. -[663.04 --> 685.14] The King of my Lord, be the mountain where I run. -[685.14 --> 691.96] The fountain I drink from, O He is my song. -[691.96 --> 699.50] And the King of my Lord, be the shadow where I hide. -[699.94 --> 705.92] The ransom for my life, O He is my song. -[705.92 --> 735.90] You are good, O He is my song. -[735.90 --> 742.24] Let the King of my Lord, be the wind inside my sails. -[742.72 --> 748.56] The anchor in the wings, O He is my song. -[749.56 --> 755.98] Let the King of my Lord, be the fire inside my wings. -[755.98 --> 762.34] The echo of my days, O He is my song. -[762.34 --> 769.16] You are good, O He is my song. -[769.16 --> 775.00] You are good, O He is my song. -[775.00 --> 781.82] You are good, O He is my song. -[781.82 --> 787.66] You are good, O He is my song. -[787.66 --> 791.82] You are good, O He is my song. -[791.82 --> 798.64] You are good, O He is my song. -[798.64 --> 805.46] You are good, O He is my song. -[805.46 --> 807.28] You are good, O He is my song. -[807.28 --> 812.28] You are good, O He is my song. -[812.28 --> 814.10] You are good, O He is my song. -[814.10 --> 819.10] You are good, O He is my song. -[819.10 --> 820.92] You are good, O He is my song. -[820.92 --> 825.92] You are good, O He is my song. -[825.92 --> 840.74] You are good, O He is my song. -[840.74 --> 846.58] You are good, O He is my song. -[846.58 --> 853.40] You are good, O He is my song. -[853.40 --> 859.40] You are good, O He is my song. -[859.40 --> 867.40] You are good, O He is my song. -[867.40 --> 888.22] You are good, O He is my song. -[888.22 --> 901.04] When the night is holding on to me, God is holding on. -[901.04 --> 917.04] When the night is holding on to me, God is holding on. -[918.22 --> 932.04] God is holding on to me, God is holding on to me, God is holding on to me. -[932.04 --> 940.10] You are good, O He is my song. -[940.10 --> 958.64] I am standing beneath your wings -[958.64 --> 964.24] I am resting in your shelter -[964.24 --> 973.48] Your great faithfulness has been my shield -[973.48 --> 980.32] And it makes me want to sing -[980.32 --> 988.06] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[988.06 --> 995.56] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[995.56 --> 1001.08] I will bless your holy name -[1001.08 --> 1004.76] For all my days -[1004.76 --> 1010.56] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[1010.56 --> 1023.80] I sing praises to your name of the Lord -[1023.80 --> 1028.94] For you daily bear my burden -[1028.94 --> 1037.16] Your great faithfulness is my reward -[1037.16 --> 1043.66] And it makes me want to sing -[1043.66 --> 1050.88] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[1050.88 --> 1058.24] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[1058.24 --> 1063.34] I will bless your holy name -[1063.34 --> 1066.88] For all my days -[1066.88 --> 1072.24] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[1072.24 --> 1079.24] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[1079.24 --> 1086.24] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[1086.24 --> 1091.74] I will bless your holy name -[1091.74 --> 1095.74] For all my days -[1095.74 --> 1101.62] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[1101.62 --> 1107.92] Bless your name, O Lord -[1107.92 --> 1111.74] Your great faithfulness is beyond our understanding -[1111.74 --> 1114.68] You, the word, and the life -[1114.68 --> 1115.84] Leave us your peace -[1115.84 --> 1117.78] That we may rest in your presence -[1117.78 --> 1120.04] And your promises through the Holy Spirit -[1120.04 --> 1122.86] But daily we leave that peace -[1122.86 --> 1125.76] We live restless lives -[1125.76 --> 1127.54] Never fully satisfied -[1127.54 --> 1131.14] Pushing, striving, bending ourselves to exhaustion -[1131.14 --> 1133.26] For ideals out of our reach -[1133.26 --> 1136.52] Our chronic distrust of your faithfulness -[1136.52 --> 1138.12] Leaves us disquieted -[1138.12 --> 1143.62] And yearning for a peace we try to create, buy, and achieve on our own -[1143.62 --> 1146.22] But you know we can't do it alone -[1146.22 --> 1148.80] You call us to fellowship -[1148.80 --> 1153.06] Fellowship with you to find rest for our souls -[1153.06 --> 1155.40] Fellowship with our brothers and sisters -[1155.40 --> 1158.54] United by you to support and learn from each other -[1158.54 --> 1163.14] Amidst our weakness, pain, sorrow, sin -[1163.14 --> 1165.92] Your loving arms remain open -[1165.92 --> 1168.10] Calling us to Sabbath rest -[1168.10 --> 1170.26] By walking in obedience with you -[1170.26 --> 1172.72] In your name we pray, amen -[1172.72 --> 1172.86] Amen -[1172.86 --> 1176.06] All who are thirsty -[1176.06 --> 1200.06] All who are thirsty -[1200.06 --> 1205.06] All who are weary -[1205.06 --> 1206.06] All who are weary -[1206.06 --> 1211.22] Come to the fountain -[1211.22 --> 1218.30] Give your heart in the stream of life -[1218.30 --> 1221.06] In the pain and sorrow -[1221.06 --> 1228.06] Be washed away -[1228.06 --> 1231.06] In the waves of his mercy -[1231.06 --> 1239.14] As he cries out to me -[1239.14 --> 1244.80] Sing, come for Jesus -[1244.80 --> 1249.00] Amen -[1249.00 --> 1251.80] 入所 -[1251.80 --> 1252.58] O Senhor -[1252.58 --> 1252.80] Oh boy -[1252.80 --> 1255.84] Jesus -[1255.84 --> 1257.80] Oh boy -[1257.80 --> 1258.92] Jesus -[1258.92 --> 1261.64] Oh boy -[1261.64 --> 1263.42] Jesus -[1263.42 --> 1267.78] N -[1267.78 --> 1278.24] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1278.24 --> 1282.88] All who are thirsty -[1282.88 --> 1289.28] All who are weak -[1289.28 --> 1293.24] Come to the fountain -[1293.24 --> 1298.88] Take your heart in the stream -[1298.88 --> 1303.92] Of life with pain and sorrow -[1303.92 --> 1308.94] Be washed away -[1308.94 --> 1314.08] In the ways of His mercy -[1314.08 --> 1321.36] I'll keep my sound to thee -[1321.36 --> 1330.00] Sing Holy Spirit, come -[1330.00 --> 1341.00] Holy Spirit, come -[1341.00 --> 1350.04] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1350.04 --> 1360.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1360.52 --> 1362.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1362.52 --> 1366.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1366.52 --> 1370.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1370.52 --> 1372.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1372.52 --> 1376.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1376.52 --> 1378.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1378.52 --> 1382.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1382.52 --> 1392.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1392.52 --> 1422.52] -[1422.52 --> 1424.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1424.52 --> 1428.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1428.52 --> 1430.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1430.52 --> 1434.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1434.52 --> 1436.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1436.52 --> 1438.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1438.52 --> 1440.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1440.52 --> 1442.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1442.52 --> 1446.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1446.52 --> 1448.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1448.52 --> 1452.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1452.52 --> 1454.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1454.52 --> 1456.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1456.52 --> 1458.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1458.52 --> 1460.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1460.52 --> 1462.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1462.52 --> 1464.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1464.52 --> 1466.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1466.52 --> 1468.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1468.52 --> 1470.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1470.52 --> 1474.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1474.52 --> 1476.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1476.52 --> 1478.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1478.52 --> 1480.52] May Jesus, come -[1480.52 --> 1482.52] Okay, Lord Jesus, come -[1482.52 --> 1484.52] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[1484.52 --> 1486.52] You lead us sing a song -[1486.52 --> 1489.96] the song of your salvation. -[1492.84 --> 1498.04] And all your people sing along. -[1498.04 --> 1505.60] So remember your jingle, -[1506.30 --> 1510.20] remember your children, -[1510.20 --> 1516.76] remember your promise, O God. -[1519.00 --> 1523.76] Your grace is enough. -[1523.98 --> 1527.76] Your grace is enough. -[1528.66 --> 1535.24] Your grace is enough for me. -[1535.24 --> 1542.36] Your grace is enough. -[1542.36 --> 1546.76] Your grace is enough. -[1546.76 --> 1553.48] Your grace is enough for me. -[1553.48 --> 1560.60] Your grace is enough. -[1560.60 --> 1565.16] And reaches out to us. -[1566.04 --> 1571.72] Your grace is enough for me. -[1571.72 --> 1577.72] Your grace is enough. -[1578.72 --> 1583.08] I'm covered in your love. -[1583.08 --> 1590.20] Your grace is enough for me. -[1590.20 --> 1594.20] For me. -[1594.20 --> 1596.20] For me. -[1596.20 --> 1598.20] For me. -[1598.20 --> 1602.20] For me. -[1602.20 --> 1604.20] For me. -[1604.20 --> 1606.20] For me. -[1606.20 --> 1610.20] For me. -[1610.20 --> 1610.94] For me. -[1613.08 --> 1616.20] For me. -[1616.20 --> 1618.20] For me. -[1618.20 --> 1620.20] For me. -[1620.20 --> 1622.20] For me. -[1622.20 --> 1624.20] For me. -[1624.20 --> 1626.20] For me. -[1626.20 --> 1628.20] For me. -[1628.20 --> 1634.20] The offerings today are for the budget and for the North American Indigenous Ministries. -[1634.20 --> 1642.60] Tim and Charity Johnson and family work with the Sioux Swap First Nations to develop relationships -[1642.60 --> 1644.76] with youth and young families. -[1645.32 --> 1649.32] They are working towards a grounded and strong identity, -[1649.32 --> 1655.32] understanding of who the Creator is and His love for us all people. -[1655.32 --> 1658.44] Tim writes in his newsletter, -[1658.44 --> 1662.84] we are in great need of prayer and preparation for what's coming. -[1662.84 --> 1668.44] By the Lord's grace and mercy and as warriors in His kingdom, -[1668.44 --> 1676.44] we are fighting for truth, reconciliation, and combating fear, anger, resentment, control, -[1676.44 --> 1681.56] and mental situations to name a few. -[1681.56 --> 1688.68] We give thanks for the Church whose hearts are filled with generosity and ability to equip us for the battle. -[1688.68 --> 1693.56] Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. -[1693.56 --> 1699.72] Whenever I pray, I make my request for you all with joy. -[1699.72 --> 1707.08] For you have been my partners in spreading the good news about Christ from the time of you, -[1707.08 --> 1709.64] when you first heard it until now. -[1709.64 --> 1715.00] And I am certain that God, who began a good work within you, -[1715.00 --> 1721.08] will continue His work until it is finished, on the day when Christ Jesus returns. -[1721.64 --> 1723.72] Philippians 1, 3-6 -[1723.72 --> 1730.60] Next week's special offering is for Refugee Chaplain Dina Nikolai. -[1739.64 --> 1754.76] The center of all history, your cross and resurrection. -[1754.76 --> 1767.32] Humiliation lifted me into a new creation. -[1767.32 --> 1769.32] I am a new creation. -[1769.32 --> 1773.32] I am a new creation. -[1773.32 --> 1791.32] My life now yielded to my King, my will to Him surrender. -[1791.32 --> 1803.32] Your presence is a treasure. -[1803.32 --> 1811.32] It's you alone I treasure. -[1811.32 --> 1825.32] Holy, worthy, you have known. -[1825.32 --> 1838.32] Holy, worthy, we sing. -[1838.32 --> 1840.32] Amen. -[1840.32 --> 1841.32] Amen. -[1841.32 --> 1842.32] Amen. -[1842.32 --> 1843.32] Amen. -[1843.32 --> 1844.32] Amen. -[1844.32 --> 1858.32] Let every knee on earth bend low, and join the host of heaven. -[1858.32 --> 1859.64] Amen. -[1859.64 --> 1861.32] Amen. -[1861.32 --> 1861.50] Amen. -[1861.50 --> 1862.62] Amen. -[1862.70 --> 1866.34] Govern работ in the race in our heart. -[1866.34 --> 1880.42] Please be safe and inclusive of Him in the creation. -[1880.56 --> 1880.72] Amen. -[1880.72 --> 1887.20] Thy old cross, sacred shatter -[1887.20 --> 1893.68] For Christ our King He reigns alone -[1893.68 --> 1899.00] Now and forever after -[1899.00 --> 1905.10] Now and forever after -[1905.10 --> 1935.08] Now and forever after -[1935.08 --> 1965.06] Now and forever after -[1965.06 --> 1995.04] Now and forever after -[1995.06 --> 2025.04] Now and forever after -[2025.04 --> 2055.02] Now and forever after -[2055.02 --> 2057.02] Now and forever after -[2057.02 --> 2059.02] Now and forever after -[2059.02 --> 2061.02] Now and forever after -[2061.02 --> 2063.02] Now and forever after -[2063.02 --> 2093.02] -[2093.02 --> 2097.10] And so God we praise your name for who you are -[2097.10 --> 2099.10] And for what you have done -[2099.10 --> 2129.10] -[2129.10 --> 2131.10] Amen -[2131.10 --> 2133.10] It's also -[2133.10 --> 2135.10] It's also -[2135.10 --> 2137.10] It's also -[2137.10 --> 2139.10] It's also -[2139.10 --> 2141.10] It's also -[2141.10 --> 2143.10] It's also -[2143.10 --> 2148.10] It's also my privilege this morning to lead us in our church family prayer -[2148.10 --> 2156.10] It's also -[2156.10 --> 2158.10] It's also -[2158.10 --> 2164.04] It's also my privilege this morning to lead us in our church family prayer -[2164.04 --> 2172.06] And so invite you to join your heart with mine as we come to God in prayer together -[2172.06 --> 2174.06] Let's pray before our God -[2174.06 --> 2175.06] Let's pray before our God -[2175.06 --> 2194.06] Holy almighty God we gather in your presence as brothers and sisters in Jesus Christ we gather in your presence as those whose hearts are longing for an encounter with you living God we gather in your presence today as those who are living in your presence today as those who are living in your life today are living in your life. -[2194.06 --> 2198.42] are longing for an encounter with you, living God. -[2198.52 --> 2205.64] We gather in your presence today as those who are full of questions, as those who are -[2205.64 --> 2212.34] full of struggles, as those who are full of tears and heartbreak, and we gather today -[2212.34 --> 2218.72] as those who are full of rejoicing, as those who are full of celebration and excitement -[2218.72 --> 2222.46] for the ways that we have seen you at work in the world. -[2224.06 --> 2231.10] And so, God, as we gather together with this incredible mix of emotions and circumstances, -[2231.10 --> 2236.38] as we gather together, may we do so as one. -[2238.10 --> 2241.64] One body in the Lord Jesus Christ. -[2241.96 --> 2247.06] Because of the one faith that we share and the one baptism that you have named us with -[2247.06 --> 2250.76] and granted us new identity in Christ through. -[2250.76 --> 2258.70] In that oneness, we mourn with those who mourn and we rejoice with those who rejoice. -[2259.74 --> 2266.44] God, and in that oneness, we know that it's not a simple binary of mourning or rejoicing, -[2266.44 --> 2275.70] but that right now in the depths of our heart is mourning and rejoicing, is celebration and lament, -[2277.42 --> 2286.10] is standing firm in the confidence of our faith and struggling with doubt and questions. -[2286.10 --> 2297.80] And so, Lord God, with all of who we are, and as who we are all, we come into your presence, -[2298.26 --> 2301.54] that we might experience all of you. -[2302.82 --> 2308.58] And so, Holy Father, reveal yourself to us through your Son in the power of the Spirit, -[2308.58 --> 2316.10] that we might lift up these prayers to you, trusting and knowing that you are our constant intercessor. -[2317.54 --> 2320.34] You are sovereign o'er all the earth. -[2320.86 --> 2323.26] You are the Lord of all creation. -[2324.60 --> 2329.12] By your will and your will alone do all things come to pass. -[2329.12 --> 2332.46] From the simplest thing of a hair falling out of one's head, -[2332.70 --> 2335.26] to the grandest movements of history, -[2335.90 --> 2338.14] you are God. -[2339.88 --> 2342.66] And so, Lord God, this week, -[2343.08 --> 2346.70] we gather in the promise of your work in the world. -[2347.84 --> 2350.90] Even as G7 countries gather in Germany -[2350.90 --> 2354.42] to discuss the state of global affairs -[2354.42 --> 2356.08] and to make plans -[2356.08 --> 2361.48] and to ensure peace and prosperity around this world, -[2361.64 --> 2363.32] we pray, Lord God, that you would work -[2363.32 --> 2364.60] in those movements -[2364.60 --> 2367.74] and those circumstances and conversations. -[2369.12 --> 2372.24] We pray that as front of mind at those discussions -[2372.24 --> 2374.10] is places like Ukraine, -[2374.34 --> 2375.62] that you would bring peace, -[2376.28 --> 2378.24] bring an end to the war. -[2379.20 --> 2380.50] We pray, Lord God, -[2380.50 --> 2382.88] that in place of pride, -[2383.08 --> 2384.68] there would be humility. -[2386.26 --> 2389.80] In place of anger, -[2390.80 --> 2392.18] there would be love. -[2394.46 --> 2395.64] We pray, Lord God, -[2395.68 --> 2397.92] that you would bring peace. -[2399.16 --> 2400.22] Put your hand of protection -[2400.22 --> 2403.00] on all those who are fleeing from war, -[2403.12 --> 2405.54] all those who are hiding from bombs -[2405.54 --> 2406.44] that are being dropped. -[2406.78 --> 2408.58] Put your hand of protection, Lord God, -[2408.58 --> 2411.70] on all those who are crying out -[2411.70 --> 2413.02] for this to end. -[2416.38 --> 2417.82] And we pray, Lord God, -[2417.86 --> 2419.84] as we have circumstance to hear -[2419.84 --> 2422.28] from, in particular, missionaries -[2422.28 --> 2423.68] on the ground in Ukraine, -[2423.92 --> 2426.76] that you would somehow use this -[2426.76 --> 2427.56] as an opportunity -[2427.56 --> 2429.40] for your gospel to be proclaimed. -[2429.64 --> 2430.90] Use this as an opportunity -[2430.90 --> 2431.82] for your church -[2431.82 --> 2433.66] to reveal your kingdom come -[2433.66 --> 2435.02] and your kingdom coming. -[2435.54 --> 2438.12] Use the people that you have called, -[2438.12 --> 2439.40] sons and daughters -[2439.40 --> 2440.34] on the ground -[2440.34 --> 2441.10] in Ukraine -[2441.10 --> 2442.24] and around the world -[2442.24 --> 2443.34] in war-torn countries. -[2444.14 --> 2444.86] Use them -[2444.86 --> 2447.64] to be makers of peace, -[2449.40 --> 2451.26] to be restorers of shalom, -[2453.18 --> 2455.12] to be ministers -[2455.12 --> 2456.62] of reconciliation. -[2460.04 --> 2460.94] Holy God, -[2461.00 --> 2463.46] as we go into this week, -[2463.46 --> 2465.46] we go mindful -[2465.46 --> 2467.74] that we celebrate Canada, -[2468.18 --> 2468.82] Canada Day, -[2469.36 --> 2470.24] celebrate the country -[2470.24 --> 2471.72] that we live in -[2471.72 --> 2473.54] and have been blessed by -[2473.54 --> 2475.04] and to be a part of. -[2475.42 --> 2476.64] And we give you praise -[2476.64 --> 2477.68] for the blessings -[2477.68 --> 2478.94] that we have experienced -[2478.94 --> 2481.04] living here in this country. -[2481.22 --> 2483.04] We thank you, Lord God, -[2483.14 --> 2486.78] for what you have blessed us with -[2486.78 --> 2488.28] in and through this place. -[2488.40 --> 2488.72] And yet, -[2489.02 --> 2490.54] even as we give offerings -[2490.54 --> 2491.82] for name, -[2491.88 --> 2492.86] and even as we reflect -[2492.86 --> 2493.94] on the work of Tim -[2493.94 --> 2494.72] and Charity -[2494.72 --> 2495.80] in Shushwap, -[2495.88 --> 2496.68] we know that -[2496.68 --> 2498.36] there are strained -[2498.36 --> 2499.96] and broken relationships -[2499.96 --> 2502.42] with our indigenous citizens -[2502.42 --> 2503.16] as well. -[2503.86 --> 2504.28] And so, -[2504.38 --> 2504.76] Lord God, -[2504.82 --> 2506.76] even as we celebrate -[2506.76 --> 2507.48] Canada Day, -[2507.56 --> 2508.48] even as we reflect -[2508.48 --> 2509.24] on our history, -[2509.44 --> 2510.54] may we do so -[2510.54 --> 2512.34] not through rose-colored glasses, -[2512.84 --> 2513.88] but may we do so -[2513.88 --> 2514.54] seeing clearly -[2515.08 --> 2515.54] abuses -[2516.38 --> 2517.60] and circumstances -[2517.60 --> 2520.10] that should have been -[2520.10 --> 2520.96] rejected -[2520.96 --> 2521.94] or stopped -[2521.94 --> 2522.74] and ideas -[2522.74 --> 2523.70] that should have gone -[2523.70 --> 2524.36] no further -[2524.36 --> 2525.44] than an idea -[2525.44 --> 2526.06] and yet -[2526.06 --> 2527.54] we cry out -[2527.54 --> 2529.18] in brokenness. -[2532.98 --> 2533.90] We pray, -[2534.04 --> 2534.38] Lord God, -[2534.44 --> 2535.00] that you would -[2535.00 --> 2537.12] bring reconciliation -[2537.12 --> 2540.10] across this country. -[2541.54 --> 2542.56] And we pray, -[2542.72 --> 2542.86] God, -[2542.94 --> 2544.68] that this reconciliation -[2544.68 --> 2545.76] would be deep -[2545.76 --> 2546.52] and real -[2546.52 --> 2547.22] and true -[2547.22 --> 2548.56] and not just -[2548.56 --> 2549.30] grandstanding -[2549.30 --> 2550.72] or virtue signaling, -[2550.92 --> 2552.48] not just words -[2552.48 --> 2553.30] on a page -[2553.30 --> 2553.96] or spoken, -[2554.50 --> 2555.40] but would be deep, -[2556.10 --> 2557.00] meaningful connection -[2557.00 --> 2558.24] and relationship. -[2559.92 --> 2560.90] To that end, -[2560.98 --> 2561.34] Lord God, -[2561.40 --> 2562.20] we pray for -[2562.20 --> 2563.50] the political leaders -[2563.50 --> 2564.46] in our country, -[2564.64 --> 2565.74] for public servants -[2565.74 --> 2566.44] who have been called -[2566.44 --> 2567.02] into office -[2567.02 --> 2567.66] to serve, -[2568.44 --> 2569.06] whether that is -[2569.06 --> 2570.06] federally -[2570.06 --> 2571.58] or provincially -[2571.58 --> 2573.06] or municipally. -[2573.38 --> 2574.08] We thank you -[2574.08 --> 2575.16] for their willingness -[2575.16 --> 2575.80] to serve -[2575.80 --> 2576.98] and we know -[2576.98 --> 2577.68] the challenges -[2577.68 --> 2578.58] that many of them -[2578.58 --> 2579.44] face, -[2579.72 --> 2580.88] especially those -[2580.88 --> 2581.82] who are striving -[2581.82 --> 2582.76] to live out -[2582.76 --> 2583.98] of their Christian faith -[2583.98 --> 2585.04] in that call -[2585.04 --> 2586.08] and in that service -[2586.08 --> 2587.80] and so equip them -[2587.80 --> 2588.66] for that work. -[2590.24 --> 2590.86] And may we, -[2591.06 --> 2591.80] as we are given -[2591.80 --> 2592.38] opportunity, -[2592.66 --> 2593.36] say thank you -[2593.36 --> 2595.24] for that service. -[2596.38 --> 2596.56] God, -[2596.60 --> 2597.04] we know too -[2597.04 --> 2597.52] that there are -[2597.52 --> 2598.56] some political parties -[2598.56 --> 2600.12] in our country -[2600.12 --> 2601.10] that are in leadership -[2601.10 --> 2602.14] races right now. -[2602.14 --> 2603.22] we pray that you would -[2603.22 --> 2605.50] use these circumstances -[2605.50 --> 2606.22] as well -[2606.22 --> 2608.26] to put the right people -[2608.26 --> 2609.78] to accomplish your will -[2609.78 --> 2611.80] and to ensure -[2611.80 --> 2612.64] the well-being -[2612.64 --> 2613.54] of our country -[2613.54 --> 2614.60] in place. -[2615.80 --> 2616.62] Lord our God, -[2616.68 --> 2617.26] as we think about -[2617.26 --> 2618.80] leaders in society -[2618.80 --> 2619.50] and politics, -[2619.62 --> 2620.52] we are also aware -[2620.52 --> 2621.16] of leaders -[2621.16 --> 2622.62] in the Christian Reformed Church. -[2623.06 --> 2623.54] We thank you -[2623.54 --> 2624.14] for the synod -[2624.14 --> 2624.88] that has just -[2624.88 --> 2625.76] taken place -[2625.76 --> 2627.90] a couple weeks ago now. -[2628.00 --> 2628.48] We thank you -[2628.48 --> 2629.74] for the leaders -[2629.74 --> 2630.74] who have served there. -[2630.74 --> 2632.58] we praise your name -[2632.58 --> 2634.62] for people -[2634.62 --> 2636.10] like Colin Watson -[2636.10 --> 2637.32] and John Bolt -[2637.32 --> 2638.18] and Dee Recker -[2638.18 --> 2639.02] who will be, -[2639.18 --> 2639.88] have retired -[2639.88 --> 2640.90] or who are retiring -[2640.90 --> 2641.84] and after many, -[2642.02 --> 2642.44] many years -[2642.44 --> 2643.48] of faithful service -[2643.48 --> 2645.04] to our denomination. -[2645.80 --> 2646.68] We praise your name -[2646.68 --> 2648.54] for Reverend Dr. Zachary King -[2648.54 --> 2649.32] who steps in -[2649.32 --> 2650.38] as General Secretary, -[2650.84 --> 2652.78] for Reverend Al Posma -[2652.78 --> 2653.56] who steps in -[2653.56 --> 2654.74] as Canadian Director. -[2655.66 --> 2655.80] God, -[2655.82 --> 2656.44] we know that there are -[2656.44 --> 2657.08] these positions -[2657.08 --> 2658.04] of senior leadership -[2658.04 --> 2659.24] and you call people -[2659.24 --> 2660.16] to serve in -[2660.16 --> 2660.88] and through them -[2660.88 --> 2662.28] and so equip them -[2662.28 --> 2663.42] for that task -[2663.42 --> 2663.98] but also -[2663.98 --> 2664.98] as churches -[2664.98 --> 2666.30] part of this denomination -[2666.30 --> 2667.22] equip us -[2667.22 --> 2668.60] to support them -[2668.60 --> 2670.00] and to receive -[2670.00 --> 2671.98] assistance -[2671.98 --> 2672.74] and direction -[2672.74 --> 2673.92] from them. -[2674.38 --> 2675.68] May our denominational -[2675.68 --> 2677.20] covenant together, -[2677.36 --> 2678.26] may our denominational -[2678.26 --> 2678.90] relationships -[2678.90 --> 2680.50] be more than -[2680.50 --> 2681.78] just in name -[2681.78 --> 2683.04] but may it be -[2683.04 --> 2683.60] in practice -[2683.60 --> 2684.28] and function -[2684.28 --> 2685.62] as we reveal -[2685.62 --> 2686.14] your kingdom. -[2686.14 --> 2688.84] pray Lord God -[2688.84 --> 2690.30] for the offering -[2690.30 --> 2691.32] that we have collected -[2691.32 --> 2692.40] for the ministries -[2692.40 --> 2693.12] of this church. -[2693.24 --> 2693.74] We thank you -[2693.74 --> 2695.00] for the many ways -[2695.00 --> 2696.16] that you are at work -[2696.16 --> 2697.26] in our neighborhood -[2697.26 --> 2698.40] and in our world -[2698.40 --> 2699.26] through the kinds -[2699.26 --> 2700.58] of things we do here, -[2701.10 --> 2701.88] the kinds of people -[2701.88 --> 2703.60] that you raise up here -[2703.60 --> 2704.70] and then send out -[2704.70 --> 2705.78] from this place. -[2706.48 --> 2707.38] We pray as well -[2707.38 --> 2708.56] for Tim and Charity -[2708.56 --> 2709.12] in the work -[2709.12 --> 2709.78] that they are doing. -[2710.58 --> 2711.62] May they be blessed -[2711.62 --> 2712.98] by our connection -[2712.98 --> 2713.64] to them -[2713.64 --> 2714.34] and may they be -[2714.34 --> 2714.80] a blessing -[2714.80 --> 2716.02] as they serve -[2716.02 --> 2717.42] in Shushua -[2717.42 --> 2719.18] and to the indigenous -[2719.18 --> 2720.46] population around. -[2721.58 --> 2722.90] God, we also pray -[2722.90 --> 2724.62] for the congregational -[2724.62 --> 2725.30] meeting that will -[2725.30 --> 2725.84] take place. -[2726.02 --> 2726.58] We thank you -[2726.58 --> 2728.38] for the way -[2728.38 --> 2729.24] that we can see -[2729.24 --> 2730.44] your faithfulness -[2730.44 --> 2731.52] to us -[2731.52 --> 2732.80] through the financials -[2732.80 --> 2733.74] of last year -[2733.74 --> 2735.06] and through the -[2735.06 --> 2736.20] nomination -[2736.20 --> 2737.50] of office bearers -[2737.50 --> 2739.18] and we thank you -[2739.18 --> 2739.46] God -[2739.46 --> 2740.02] for the ways -[2740.02 --> 2741.14] that your faithfulness -[2741.14 --> 2741.92] is expressed -[2741.92 --> 2743.08] through the faithfulness -[2743.08 --> 2743.88] of the people here -[2743.88 --> 2744.78] in giving -[2744.78 --> 2745.60] and in willingness -[2745.60 --> 2746.24] to serve. -[2747.38 --> 2748.78] Bless that time -[2748.78 --> 2749.98] following our worship -[2749.98 --> 2751.68] and may it also -[2751.68 --> 2753.18] be used for your glory -[2753.18 --> 2754.60] and for the proclamation -[2754.60 --> 2756.02] of your gospel -[2756.02 --> 2756.82] and your kingdom. -[2758.46 --> 2759.18] Lord our God, -[2759.24 --> 2759.70] this morning -[2759.70 --> 2761.40] as we have prayed -[2761.40 --> 2762.02] there are many -[2762.02 --> 2762.50] of reasons -[2762.50 --> 2763.36] to give thanks -[2763.36 --> 2764.56] and many reasons -[2764.56 --> 2766.00] for which we are mourning. -[2766.94 --> 2767.76] And so we celebrate -[2767.76 --> 2768.46] with Dave -[2768.46 --> 2769.34] and Leanne -[2769.34 --> 2770.32] with Megan -[2770.32 --> 2770.92] and Dylan -[2770.92 --> 2772.64] as they are expecting, -[2773.66 --> 2774.84] Dave and Leanne -[2774.84 --> 2775.94] expecting a grandchild. -[2776.60 --> 2777.30] We pray, -[2777.44 --> 2777.78] Lord God, -[2777.86 --> 2779.88] that Megan -[2779.88 --> 2781.48] would continue -[2781.48 --> 2782.94] to be doing well -[2782.94 --> 2783.82] and that she would feel -[2783.82 --> 2784.86] healthy and strong -[2784.86 --> 2785.92] and that this little life -[2785.92 --> 2786.60] that is growing -[2786.60 --> 2787.76] within her -[2787.76 --> 2788.64] would be blessed -[2788.64 --> 2789.66] and would come -[2789.66 --> 2790.64] in December -[2790.64 --> 2792.44] healthy and strong -[2792.44 --> 2793.20] and that we might -[2793.20 --> 2794.18] celebrate again -[2794.18 --> 2796.30] in that time -[2796.30 --> 2797.18] with Dave -[2797.18 --> 2798.52] and Leanne. -[2800.32 --> 2801.12] Father God, -[2801.18 --> 2801.92] we want to pray -[2801.92 --> 2802.58] as well -[2802.58 --> 2804.08] for Harry -[2804.08 --> 2805.46] who was in -[2805.46 --> 2806.60] a very serious -[2806.60 --> 2808.22] workplace accident. -[2810.38 --> 2810.94] God, -[2810.98 --> 2811.80] even as we hear -[2811.80 --> 2812.62] the story -[2812.62 --> 2814.70] of what took place, -[2814.90 --> 2816.54] it is a miracle -[2816.54 --> 2817.46] of your grace -[2817.46 --> 2818.70] that he survived. -[2819.34 --> 2820.10] It is a miracle -[2820.10 --> 2821.02] of your grace -[2821.02 --> 2822.72] that all things -[2822.72 --> 2823.28] considered -[2823.28 --> 2824.00] for what they could -[2824.00 --> 2824.34] have been. -[2824.70 --> 2825.22] His injuries -[2825.22 --> 2826.84] are relatively minor -[2826.84 --> 2828.14] and so we praise -[2828.14 --> 2828.74] your name -[2828.74 --> 2829.38] for your hand -[2829.38 --> 2829.94] of protection -[2829.94 --> 2830.48] on him -[2830.48 --> 2831.26] in that moment. -[2831.78 --> 2832.78] We praise your name -[2832.78 --> 2834.02] for holding him safe -[2834.02 --> 2836.38] and we ask, -[2836.54 --> 2836.86] Lord God, -[2836.92 --> 2837.34] that you would -[2837.34 --> 2838.62] continue to hold him, -[2839.12 --> 2839.88] continue to bring -[2839.88 --> 2840.64] healing to him. -[2840.74 --> 2841.20] We thank you -[2841.20 --> 2842.22] for the successful -[2842.22 --> 2842.90] surgery. -[2843.10 --> 2843.68] We know that there -[2843.68 --> 2844.58] may yet be more. -[2845.10 --> 2845.68] We pray that you -[2845.68 --> 2846.58] would be near to him. -[2847.46 --> 2848.24] We pray also, -[2848.38 --> 2848.56] God, -[2848.62 --> 2849.08] that you would -[2849.08 --> 2851.94] make a path -[2851.94 --> 2852.80] forward clear -[2852.80 --> 2853.36] for what that -[2853.36 --> 2854.08] treatment will look -[2854.08 --> 2854.84] like and where -[2854.84 --> 2855.56] it will look -[2855.56 --> 2857.74] and how his -[2857.74 --> 2858.30] rehabilitation -[2858.30 --> 2859.70] will take place. -[2860.74 --> 2861.74] We pray for -[2861.74 --> 2864.18] Robin and for -[2864.18 --> 2864.92] the whole family -[2864.92 --> 2865.90] as they surround -[2865.90 --> 2867.06] him in his time -[2867.06 --> 2867.54] of need. -[2868.02 --> 2869.10] May we surround -[2869.10 --> 2870.24] all of them -[2870.24 --> 2871.18] in this time -[2871.18 --> 2872.30] as well. -[2873.88 --> 2874.44] Lord, -[2874.50 --> 2874.78] our God, -[2874.84 --> 2875.60] we want to pray -[2875.60 --> 2877.92] for the relationships -[2877.92 --> 2879.16] in our midst, -[2879.72 --> 2880.56] the relationships -[2880.56 --> 2881.66] that are struggling, -[2882.00 --> 2883.34] that are hurting, -[2883.72 --> 2885.68] that apart from -[2885.68 --> 2886.60] a miracle of your -[2886.60 --> 2887.48] intervention are -[2887.48 --> 2888.44] falling apart -[2888.44 --> 2889.48] and breaking -[2889.48 --> 2890.38] around us. -[2890.50 --> 2890.86] And so, -[2891.04 --> 2891.40] Lord God, -[2891.76 --> 2892.64] bring hope, -[2893.38 --> 2894.32] bring restoration. -[2895.84 --> 2896.80] May we look to -[2896.80 --> 2897.80] Jesus Christ -[2897.80 --> 2899.08] who gave himself -[2899.08 --> 2900.54] up for us -[2900.54 --> 2901.60] as the model -[2901.60 --> 2902.56] of what it means -[2902.56 --> 2904.06] to submit to one -[2904.06 --> 2904.64] another out of -[2904.64 --> 2905.52] reverence for Christ, -[2905.60 --> 2906.18] that we might be -[2906.18 --> 2907.02] the kinds of -[2907.02 --> 2908.90] husbands and wives -[2908.90 --> 2910.28] who willingly give -[2910.28 --> 2911.02] of ourselves -[2911.02 --> 2912.76] so that the other -[2912.76 --> 2914.26] may be lifted up. -[2915.78 --> 2917.18] Heal our broken -[2917.18 --> 2918.80] relationships between -[2918.80 --> 2920.06] brothers and sisters, -[2920.66 --> 2921.78] family and friends. -[2922.28 --> 2923.04] Heal our broken -[2923.04 --> 2924.10] relationships between -[2924.10 --> 2925.62] parents and children. -[2926.80 --> 2927.56] Heal us, -[2927.70 --> 2928.04] Lord God, -[2928.10 --> 2929.54] that as we see you -[2929.54 --> 2930.68] at work in the world, -[2930.76 --> 2932.02] we might see these -[2932.02 --> 2933.18] kinds of relationships -[2933.18 --> 2933.88] restored, -[2934.14 --> 2935.04] and we might know -[2935.04 --> 2936.12] that as an example -[2936.12 --> 2938.54] of your gospel work -[2938.54 --> 2940.12] made real -[2940.12 --> 2941.02] in our midst. -[2943.30 --> 2944.10] Father God, -[2944.20 --> 2945.38] today as well, -[2945.54 --> 2947.08] we cling to the -[2947.08 --> 2947.94] promise of your -[2947.94 --> 2949.08] gospel as we -[2949.08 --> 2949.88] mourn -[2949.88 --> 2951.10] with the -[2951.10 --> 2952.02] Rezabas family. -[2953.18 --> 2953.92] As we mourn -[2953.92 --> 2954.42] and having -[2954.42 --> 2956.66] said goodbye -[2956.66 --> 2957.86] and laid to rest -[2957.86 --> 2959.00] Louise on Friday, -[2959.56 --> 2960.82] we pray that you -[2960.82 --> 2961.66] would be near to -[2961.66 --> 2962.34] each one -[2962.34 --> 2963.54] as they journey -[2963.54 --> 2964.36] now from -[2964.36 --> 2965.34] the graveside -[2965.34 --> 2966.28] into -[2966.28 --> 2967.92] the rest -[2967.92 --> 2968.76] of life -[2968.76 --> 2969.62] without mom, -[2970.08 --> 2970.94] without spouse, -[2971.16 --> 2971.98] without Oma, -[2972.14 --> 2973.78] without friend. -[2975.66 --> 2976.36] We pray, -[2976.50 --> 2976.82] Lord God, -[2976.88 --> 2977.70] that you would -[2977.70 --> 2979.68] take the truth -[2979.68 --> 2981.02] of your gospel, -[2981.18 --> 2981.98] the truth of your -[2981.98 --> 2982.84] resurrection in -[2982.84 --> 2983.50] Jesus Christ, -[2983.58 --> 2984.12] and you would -[2984.12 --> 2985.66] give us the hope -[2985.66 --> 2986.42] that we need. -[2987.54 --> 2988.10] Give them -[2988.10 --> 2989.58] the hope -[2989.58 --> 2990.54] that they need -[2990.54 --> 2992.38] to step forward. -[2992.38 --> 2995.00] God, -[2995.04 --> 2995.66] even in these -[2995.66 --> 2996.96] moments of -[2996.96 --> 2998.44] the valley of -[2998.44 --> 2999.14] the shadow of -[2999.14 --> 2999.42] death, -[2999.60 --> 3000.64] we pray that you -[3000.64 --> 3001.62] would draw near -[3001.62 --> 3002.10] to us, -[3002.16 --> 3002.58] that you -[3002.58 --> 3003.50] would be with -[3003.50 --> 3003.68] us, -[3003.72 --> 3004.34] that your rod -[3004.34 --> 3005.00] and staff -[3005.00 --> 3006.02] would comfort -[3006.02 --> 3007.28] us and protect -[3007.28 --> 3007.56] us. -[3007.66 --> 3008.22] We cling -[3008.22 --> 3009.16] to you. -[3010.80 --> 3011.34] Father, -[3011.42 --> 3012.10] we pray the -[3012.10 --> 3013.78] same for the -[3013.78 --> 3014.42] family of -[3014.42 --> 3015.10] Reverend John -[3015.10 --> 3015.62] Van Hamert, -[3016.26 --> 3017.36] who this past -[3017.36 --> 3018.36] Thursday was -[3018.36 --> 3019.70] also laid to -[3019.70 --> 3019.94] rest, -[3020.02 --> 3020.64] whose life was -[3020.64 --> 3022.92] celebrated at -[3022.92 --> 3024.06] a funeral in -[3024.06 --> 3024.54] Linden. -[3025.56 --> 3026.42] We pray for -[3026.42 --> 3028.52] Carolyn and -[3028.52 --> 3029.10] for Glenn and -[3029.10 --> 3029.72] for the extended -[3029.72 --> 3030.44] family there, -[3030.56 --> 3031.46] asking that you, -[3031.68 --> 3032.08] Lord God, -[3032.14 --> 3033.02] would be near to -[3033.02 --> 3033.74] them too, -[3034.20 --> 3034.96] as they process -[3034.96 --> 3036.56] this new reality -[3036.56 --> 3037.36] without dad, -[3037.46 --> 3038.70] as the extended -[3038.70 --> 3039.64] family as well -[3039.64 --> 3040.66] processes this -[3040.66 --> 3041.50] reality in the -[3041.50 --> 3042.18] church community -[3042.18 --> 3043.54] that he was an -[3043.54 --> 3044.72] integral part of -[3044.72 --> 3047.24] processes this. -[3047.34 --> 3048.14] We thank you for -[3048.14 --> 3049.04] his years of -[3049.04 --> 3049.72] service to the -[3049.72 --> 3050.04] church, -[3050.18 --> 3050.70] and we pray, -[3050.84 --> 3051.22] Lord God, -[3051.28 --> 3051.86] that even as -[3051.86 --> 3052.70] there are hard -[3052.70 --> 3053.56] questions around -[3053.56 --> 3054.24] grief and -[3054.24 --> 3054.98] wrestling in -[3054.98 --> 3056.56] his passing, -[3057.16 --> 3057.88] that you would -[3057.88 --> 3060.34] sustain those -[3060.34 --> 3060.98] who mourn. -[3062.00 --> 3062.56] You would hold -[3062.56 --> 3063.40] us up as we -[3063.40 --> 3064.62] walk together. -[3065.84 --> 3066.86] May we truly -[3066.86 --> 3067.28] know, -[3067.50 --> 3067.90] Lord God, -[3067.98 --> 3068.40] that no matter -[3068.40 --> 3069.46] what valley or -[3069.46 --> 3070.44] dark night or -[3070.44 --> 3071.78] struggle that we -[3071.78 --> 3072.26] face, -[3072.62 --> 3074.38] that we are not -[3074.38 --> 3075.00] alone, -[3075.88 --> 3077.38] that you are -[3077.38 --> 3078.14] with us, -[3078.14 --> 3078.66] that you have -[3078.66 --> 3080.18] called us to -[3080.18 --> 3081.46] come near to -[3081.46 --> 3081.82] you, -[3082.94 --> 3083.34] and that in -[3083.34 --> 3083.96] coming near to -[3083.96 --> 3084.50] you we would -[3084.50 --> 3085.22] find rest. -[3086.30 --> 3087.20] Give us your -[3087.20 --> 3087.64] yoke, -[3088.08 --> 3088.62] Lord Jesus. -[3089.78 --> 3090.60] Lay it on us -[3090.60 --> 3091.12] that we might -[3091.12 --> 3091.94] have your presence -[3091.94 --> 3093.94] in our lives. -[3094.60 --> 3095.60] We pray now for -[3095.60 --> 3096.28] the presence of -[3096.28 --> 3097.16] your spirit on -[3097.16 --> 3098.04] Pastor Kevin as -[3098.04 --> 3098.80] he comes forward -[3098.80 --> 3099.64] to preach your -[3099.64 --> 3100.52] word to us. -[3101.10 --> 3102.28] Speak boldly to -[3102.28 --> 3103.38] us through him -[3103.38 --> 3104.94] and allow him, -[3105.16 --> 3105.54] Lord God, -[3105.54 --> 3106.54] to be your -[3106.54 --> 3107.24] servant, -[3107.48 --> 3108.52] to be your -[3108.52 --> 3109.48] vessel for our -[3109.48 --> 3110.72] understanding of -[3110.72 --> 3111.18] your word. -[3111.40 --> 3112.62] Minister grace to -[3112.62 --> 3114.06] us through his -[3114.06 --> 3115.08] words, we pray, -[3115.46 --> 3116.82] in Jesus' name. -[3117.62 --> 3117.94] Amen. -[3135.54 --> 3148.72] The last couple -[3148.72 --> 3149.46] of weeks have -[3149.46 --> 3150.08] been full, -[3150.36 --> 3150.88] haven't they? -[3152.10 --> 3152.72] Are you feeling -[3152.72 --> 3153.00] that? -[3154.46 --> 3155.18] I don't know about -[3155.18 --> 3155.90] you, but between -[3155.90 --> 3157.28] graduation ceremonies -[3157.28 --> 3158.06] and year-end -[3158.06 --> 3159.36] activities, sports -[3159.36 --> 3160.80] days and baseball -[3160.80 --> 3161.84] tournaments, piano -[3161.84 --> 3162.82] lessons, piano -[3162.82 --> 3164.18] recitals, hockey -[3164.18 --> 3165.10] playoffs, movie -[3165.10 --> 3166.02] premieres, final -[3166.02 --> 3167.10] assignments, course -[3167.10 --> 3168.30] work, and general -[3168.30 --> 3169.36] summer upkeep of -[3169.36 --> 3170.02] the home and the -[3170.02 --> 3171.28] yard, things have -[3171.28 --> 3171.90] been a little bit -[3171.90 --> 3172.60] nuts lately. -[3173.24 --> 3173.84] And that's just my -[3173.84 --> 3174.56] personal life. -[3175.80 --> 3176.34] What about here at -[3176.34 --> 3176.84] the church? -[3177.20 --> 3178.28] We've had an intense -[3178.28 --> 3179.10] synod a couple -[3179.10 --> 3179.94] weeks ago, a -[3179.94 --> 3181.12] congregational meeting -[3181.12 --> 3182.12] is happening tonight, -[3182.44 --> 3183.48] year-end activities -[3183.48 --> 3184.08] for all these -[3184.08 --> 3184.88] different ministries -[3184.88 --> 3185.88] in church, youth -[3185.88 --> 3186.90] camps happening next -[3186.90 --> 3187.50] week, register -[3187.50 --> 3188.10] today, youth, -[3188.14 --> 3188.72] that's the deadline. -[3189.70 --> 3190.54] Council nominations -[3190.54 --> 3191.48] are happening, kids -[3191.48 --> 3192.46] camp registrations -[3192.46 --> 3193.40] in full swing, we're -[3193.40 --> 3194.56] in the midst of -[3194.56 --> 3195.60] reactivate sign-up -[3195.60 --> 3196.46] for September and -[3196.46 --> 3197.04] we're busy looking -[3197.04 --> 3197.76] ahead to the fall -[3197.76 --> 3198.84] already for the -[3198.84 --> 3199.46] ministries, the -[3199.46 --> 3200.24] volunteers, the -[3200.24 --> 3200.66] leaders, the -[3200.66 --> 3201.24] coordinators. -[3202.16 --> 3203.06] And that's just the -[3203.06 --> 3203.56] stuff that I'm -[3203.56 --> 3204.26] involved in, let -[3204.26 --> 3204.94] alone all of the -[3204.94 --> 3205.78] other ministries and -[3205.78 --> 3206.56] committees and -[3206.56 --> 3207.28] different work that's -[3207.28 --> 3208.82] going on in and -[3208.82 --> 3209.94] beyond these walls. -[3210.16 --> 3210.94] We also know people -[3210.94 --> 3211.78] who are celebrating -[3211.78 --> 3213.52] and mourning in the -[3213.52 --> 3214.58] midst of all of this. -[3214.84 --> 3216.04] We rejoiced last -[3216.04 --> 3217.22] week as three young -[3217.22 --> 3218.06] members of our church -[3218.06 --> 3219.60] professed their faith -[3219.60 --> 3220.70] in Jesus and we -[3220.70 --> 3221.70] celebrated alongside -[3221.70 --> 3222.96] seven grade four -[3222.96 --> 3223.38] students who are -[3223.40 --> 3225.42] graduating outside of -[3225.42 --> 3226.04] children's worship -[3226.04 --> 3226.32] time. -[3226.42 --> 3227.64] There's been weddings -[3227.64 --> 3228.46] that have been -[3228.46 --> 3229.20] connected to members -[3229.20 --> 3229.94] of this church, we're -[3229.94 --> 3231.04] celebrating new life -[3231.04 --> 3232.64] with grandchildren and -[3232.64 --> 3233.64] children being born -[3233.64 --> 3235.28] and it's been hard -[3235.28 --> 3236.04] too. -[3237.42 --> 3238.46] People got hurt, -[3239.56 --> 3240.32] others are sick, -[3241.26 --> 3242.38] we've made hospital -[3242.38 --> 3243.34] visits, we've ran -[3243.34 --> 3244.62] meals to families, -[3246.08 --> 3247.62] in the last four days -[3247.62 --> 3248.46] we've attended two -[3248.46 --> 3249.68] funerals for John and -[3249.68 --> 3250.36] for Louise. -[3250.36 --> 3252.64] a lot. -[3255.22 --> 3256.50] And now we're here and -[3256.50 --> 3257.60] I get to preach in the -[3257.60 --> 3258.74] midst of all of this and -[3258.74 --> 3259.86] it's all just a little -[3259.86 --> 3260.98] overwhelming maybe. -[3262.34 --> 3263.16] Now some of you, you -[3263.16 --> 3264.14] hear all of that and -[3264.14 --> 3264.78] you're sitting there and -[3264.78 --> 3265.68] you're nodding along and -[3265.68 --> 3267.06] you're empathizing because -[3267.06 --> 3268.36] this is your life too and -[3268.36 --> 3269.42] you're like, yeah, Kevin, -[3269.52 --> 3270.48] that is true. -[3272.08 --> 3274.24] Or you're sitting there -[3274.24 --> 3275.52] rolling your eyes at me -[3275.52 --> 3276.50] saying, quit complaining, -[3276.64 --> 3277.56] Kevin, we're all busy, -[3277.64 --> 3278.90] just get to the message. -[3278.90 --> 3281.46] And either way, perfect. -[3282.82 --> 3284.30] Because that's the point. -[3285.82 --> 3286.80] Life is full. -[3288.66 --> 3290.06] And while that little rant -[3290.06 --> 3291.14] was not necessarily meant -[3291.14 --> 3292.30] for you to empathize with -[3292.30 --> 3293.66] me or roll your eyes with -[3293.66 --> 3295.14] me, all of you were pretty -[3295.14 --> 3296.48] locked in to those last -[3296.48 --> 3297.90] two minutes because you -[3297.90 --> 3298.62] all feel it. -[3299.56 --> 3300.66] We're all busy. -[3302.94 --> 3304.20] But maybe we're not -[3304.20 --> 3305.04] supposed to be. -[3306.30 --> 3307.84] Or better yet, maybe we -[3307.84 --> 3308.88] are supposed to be. -[3309.78 --> 3311.34] But our response shouldn't -[3311.34 --> 3312.60] be empathizing and just -[3312.60 --> 3313.78] trudging along as normal -[3313.78 --> 3315.76] or rolling your eyes and -[3315.76 --> 3316.88] then trudging along as -[3316.88 --> 3317.20] normal. -[3317.40 --> 3318.62] Maybe the response needs -[3318.62 --> 3319.30] to be different. -[3321.20 --> 3322.12] So we're going to look at -[3322.12 --> 3322.90] that and a few other -[3322.90 --> 3323.36] things today. -[3323.44 --> 3324.78] We're going to keep going -[3324.78 --> 3325.86] through these holy habits -[3325.86 --> 3326.68] that we've been working -[3326.68 --> 3327.72] our way through these past -[3327.72 --> 3328.08] few weeks. -[3328.44 --> 3330.14] And today's holy habit is -[3330.14 --> 3332.90] finding rest in community. -[3332.90 --> 3333.02] community. -[3333.48 --> 3333.90] And so we're going to -[3333.90 --> 3335.72] look at rest and obedience -[3335.72 --> 3337.44] and community together. -[3338.06 --> 3338.92] We're going to use two -[3338.92 --> 3340.02] texts to do that. -[3340.10 --> 3341.10] So the first one we're -[3341.10 --> 3342.06] going to look at is in -[3342.06 --> 3342.88] Matthew 11. -[3343.00 --> 3343.58] So if you have your -[3343.58 --> 3344.86] Bibles with you, you can -[3344.86 --> 3346.16] turn to Matthew 11 with -[3346.16 --> 3346.38] me. -[3346.84 --> 3347.84] Pull out your phones or -[3347.84 --> 3348.44] whatever you use. -[3348.50 --> 3349.20] I think it's going to be on -[3349.20 --> 3350.16] the screen behind me as -[3350.16 --> 3350.34] well. -[3350.66 --> 3351.76] And feel free to read -[3351.76 --> 3352.14] along. -[3352.22 --> 3353.80] So Matthew 11, three -[3353.80 --> 3356.10] verses, verses 28 to 30 -[3356.10 --> 3356.72] this morning. -[3357.22 --> 3358.10] You can read along with -[3358.10 --> 3358.22] me. -[3358.28 --> 3359.34] There Jesus says this. -[3359.34 --> 3362.84] Jesus says, come to me, all -[3362.84 --> 3364.10] you who are weary and -[3364.10 --> 3365.08] burdened, and I will give -[3365.08 --> 3365.54] you rest. -[3365.90 --> 3367.96] Take my yoke upon you and -[3367.96 --> 3370.08] learn from me, for I am -[3370.08 --> 3371.66] gentle and humble in heart, -[3371.96 --> 3374.12] and you will find rest for -[3374.12 --> 3374.76] your souls. -[3375.92 --> 3378.20] For my yoke is easy and my -[3378.20 --> 3379.86] burden is light. -[3381.16 --> 3382.18] The word of the Lord. -[3384.60 --> 3386.66] Jesus says, come to me and -[3386.66 --> 3387.84] I will give you rest. -[3387.84 --> 3391.96] Come learn from me and you -[3391.96 --> 3392.84] will find rest. -[3394.02 --> 3396.04] Come to me, Jesus says, for -[3396.04 --> 3397.32] I am gentle and humble in -[3397.32 --> 3398.64] heart and you will find -[3398.64 --> 3399.62] rest. -[3400.90 --> 3402.34] Take my yoke on your -[3402.34 --> 3404.02] shoulders and you will find -[3404.02 --> 3406.84] rest for your souls. -[3406.98 --> 3409.06] We search for rest in so -[3409.06 --> 3410.26] many different places, don't -[3410.26 --> 3410.46] we? -[3410.82 --> 3412.84] We curl up into a novel or -[3412.84 --> 3414.36] we turn on Netflix. -[3414.92 --> 3416.26] We count down the days to -[3416.26 --> 3417.18] our next vacation. -[3417.84 --> 3419.04] We want to tinker in our -[3419.04 --> 3420.72] shops or putter in our -[3420.72 --> 3422.80] gardens or, for some reason -[3422.80 --> 3424.00] beyond my comprehension, go -[3424.00 --> 3424.86] for a jog in our -[3424.86 --> 3425.28] neighborhoods. -[3426.48 --> 3427.50] Some people are just built -[3427.50 --> 3428.28] differently, I guess. -[3429.80 --> 3430.72] Point is, we turn to all -[3430.72 --> 3431.82] sorts of things to find -[3431.82 --> 3433.54] rest, to find solitude, to -[3433.54 --> 3434.62] escape a little bit, and -[3434.62 --> 3435.54] those things can be good. -[3435.68 --> 3436.52] Don't hear me wrong. -[3437.32 --> 3440.38] But how often, how often do -[3440.38 --> 3442.08] we turn to Jesus when we need -[3442.08 --> 3442.42] rest? -[3442.42 --> 3445.78] Do we pray as we garden or as -[3445.78 --> 3446.24] we tinker? -[3446.42 --> 3448.34] Do we worship when we jog? -[3448.92 --> 3450.34] Is the book we curl up with -[3450.34 --> 3451.50] ever God's word? -[3453.22 --> 3455.04] Jesus says, if you are weary -[3455.04 --> 3456.90] and burdened, you need to go -[3456.90 --> 3458.48] to him and we will find rest. -[3458.74 --> 3460.80] Our rest is in him, but is he -[3460.80 --> 3462.28] the first place we turn for -[3462.28 --> 3462.78] that rest? -[3464.58 --> 3465.94] I love this passage we read -[3465.94 --> 3467.72] because Jesus doesn't say, -[3468.02 --> 3469.88] come to me and then sit down and -[3469.88 --> 3471.08] take a nap and you will be -[3471.08 --> 3471.42] rested. -[3472.70 --> 3474.62] He actually says, take my -[3474.62 --> 3477.58] yoke upon you and you will -[3477.58 --> 3478.32] find rest. -[3479.62 --> 3481.38] The yoke of an oxen, the work. -[3484.12 --> 3485.88] Our rest is not found in Jesus -[3485.88 --> 3487.28] when we stop working. -[3488.90 --> 3490.40] Jesus says our rest is found -[3490.40 --> 3492.70] when we start working for him. -[3492.78 --> 3494.20] We start doing his work. -[3495.06 --> 3496.74] When we take on his yoke, when -[3496.74 --> 3499.54] we obey him and take on his -[3499.54 --> 3502.20] work for him, for us, for his -[3502.20 --> 3504.98] kingdom, then we will find rest. -[3506.12 --> 3508.94] Not when we stop, but when we -[3508.94 --> 3509.38] obey. -[3511.08 --> 3512.80] We experience this rest in Jesus -[3512.80 --> 3514.22] because we know that in this -[3514.22 --> 3515.40] world we will have trouble. -[3515.66 --> 3517.26] We've experienced that recently. -[3517.26 --> 3521.84] we know that Jesus has overcome the -[3521.84 --> 3522.16] world. -[3522.30 --> 3523.86] John 16, 33 tells us this. -[3523.92 --> 3526.22] Jesus came into the world knowing -[3526.22 --> 3528.96] that there would be hardship. -[3529.38 --> 3530.52] Knowing that we were sinful. -[3530.90 --> 3532.18] Knowing that we would be busy. -[3534.06 --> 3535.62] And so Jesus came into this world -[3535.62 --> 3537.30] and he lived this perfect life that -[3537.30 --> 3538.48] you and I have not lived. -[3538.64 --> 3540.44] And then he died a death that we all -[3540.44 --> 3541.36] deserve to die. -[3541.90 --> 3544.94] But three days later he rose again -[3544.94 --> 3548.22] from the tomb and he defeated sin -[3548.22 --> 3549.88] and death once and for all. -[3549.94 --> 3551.22] And then he ascended into heaven. -[3551.78 --> 3553.08] And he is sitting on his heavenly -[3553.08 --> 3555.14] throne mediating on our behalf. -[3555.24 --> 3557.56] So now whenever we feel burdened by -[3557.56 --> 3559.60] this world, whenever we are overcome -[3559.60 --> 3562.06] by this world, whenever we're -[3562.06 --> 3563.58] burdened by the busyness of this -[3563.58 --> 3566.48] life, we can remember what he has -[3566.48 --> 3567.16] accomplished. -[3567.98 --> 3569.40] And we could turn to him and -[3569.40 --> 3572.64] believe in him and work for him -[3572.64 --> 3575.70] and experience his eternal rest. -[3575.76 --> 3577.04] Because of what he accomplished, -[3577.54 --> 3578.58] we are saved. -[3578.84 --> 3580.38] And our response is to take his -[3580.38 --> 3583.48] yoke on our shoulders and follow -[3583.48 --> 3585.32] him and live for him. -[3585.54 --> 3588.60] Our rest is in him and our calling -[3588.60 --> 3589.64] is to obey him. -[3591.72 --> 3592.82] Let's rest in obedience. -[3592.96 --> 3593.72] But what about community? -[3593.86 --> 3595.52] Well, our second text today shows us -[3595.52 --> 3595.66] this. -[3595.74 --> 3596.76] Turn with me in your Bibles now to -[3596.76 --> 3597.46] 1 John. -[3597.64 --> 3598.64] 1 John 1. -[3598.72 --> 3600.74] We're going to read verses 5 to 7. -[3600.74 --> 3601.76] And a reminder, this isn't the -[3601.76 --> 3602.50] Gospel of John. -[3602.56 --> 3603.38] This is one of his letters. -[3603.66 --> 3604.42] So it's in the back. -[3604.92 --> 3605.78] Right towards the back. -[3605.88 --> 3609.32] 1 John 1 verses 5 to 7 says this. -[3610.58 --> 3611.86] This is a message that we have -[3611.86 --> 3613.48] heard from him and declare to you. -[3613.62 --> 3615.04] God is light. -[3615.66 --> 3617.50] In him there is no darkness at all. -[3617.80 --> 3619.64] If we claim to have fellowship with -[3619.64 --> 3621.64] him and yet walk in the darkness, -[3622.08 --> 3624.88] we lie and do not live out the truth. -[3624.88 --> 3629.30] But if we walk in the light as he is -[3629.30 --> 3631.60] in the light, we have fellowship with -[3631.60 --> 3632.28] one another. -[3633.24 --> 3635.58] In the blood of Jesus, his son purifies -[3635.58 --> 3637.10] us from all sin. -[3640.70 --> 3641.70] God is light. -[3641.78 --> 3643.24] And if he is light, we will have -[3643.24 --> 3645.32] fellowship with one another. -[3645.48 --> 3647.76] If we take his yoke upon us, we will -[3647.76 --> 3648.38] find rest. -[3648.52 --> 3650.22] If we walk in the light, we have -[3650.22 --> 3653.42] fellowship with one another and find -[3653.42 --> 3653.82] rest. -[3653.96 --> 3655.14] Rest in community. -[3656.20 --> 3657.96] This is how we live out our faith -[3657.96 --> 3659.14] in the craziness of this world. -[3659.34 --> 3660.64] We take Christ's yoke on our -[3660.64 --> 3660.94] shoulders. -[3661.30 --> 3662.46] We learn from him and we have -[3662.46 --> 3663.96] fellowship with one another. -[3664.96 --> 3667.92] We can persevere in this world by -[3667.92 --> 3670.90] obeying Christ and resting in -[3670.90 --> 3671.52] community. -[3672.16 --> 3672.54] Rest. -[3673.10 --> 3673.70] Obedience. -[3674.32 --> 3674.68] Community. -[3676.60 --> 3678.06] Those three words, they're so -[3678.06 --> 3679.90] important for our faith, our -[3679.90 --> 3681.64] faithful service to Jesus Christ. -[3681.84 --> 3682.14] Rest. -[3682.46 --> 3683.00] Obedience. -[3683.00 --> 3683.44] Community. -[3683.88 --> 3685.38] We've all heard sermons on these, -[3685.46 --> 3685.62] right? -[3685.70 --> 3686.70] This is not necessarily, these -[3686.70 --> 3687.52] aren't new words. -[3688.24 --> 3689.22] Some of you have done Bible -[3689.22 --> 3689.72] studies. -[3690.36 --> 3691.74] Some of these words have come up. -[3691.80 --> 3692.62] You've been in church long -[3692.62 --> 3692.86] enough. -[3692.94 --> 3694.36] You've even probably just now -[3694.36 --> 3695.84] possibly slouched in your chair a -[3695.84 --> 3696.94] little bit and thought, oh, good. -[3697.26 --> 3698.26] Another sermon on rest. -[3698.40 --> 3699.50] Oh, yeah, no, community is -[3699.50 --> 3699.80] important. -[3699.94 --> 3700.84] Yeah, we should obey. -[3701.64 --> 3702.98] And you're probably thinking to -[3702.98 --> 3704.04] yourself, rolling your eyes a -[3704.04 --> 3704.58] little bit, great. -[3704.70 --> 3705.44] What are you going to talk about -[3705.44 --> 3705.68] next? -[3705.80 --> 3706.16] Tithing? -[3707.22 --> 3708.64] Well, stay after the service for -[3708.64 --> 3709.36] that talk. -[3711.12 --> 3712.28] No, and next week. -[3712.40 --> 3713.02] It's coming up. -[3715.10 --> 3716.38] Sometimes we gloss over this -[3716.38 --> 3717.48] because we think we hear this -[3717.48 --> 3718.26] all the time. -[3718.46 --> 3719.56] But the problem is that these -[3719.56 --> 3721.38] three words, they combat some -[3721.38 --> 3723.40] very serious idols in our -[3723.40 --> 3725.06] culture that we hear all the -[3725.06 --> 3726.02] time and we don't even gloss -[3726.02 --> 3727.26] over anymore because they've -[3727.26 --> 3729.40] embedded themselves into our -[3729.40 --> 3730.42] culture, into our churches. -[3731.08 --> 3733.36] The idols of busyness and -[3733.36 --> 3735.84] autonomy and individualism. -[3737.30 --> 3738.32] Some of you might not even see -[3738.32 --> 3739.50] these words as bad because -[3739.50 --> 3740.70] that's how ingrained they are -[3740.70 --> 3741.66] in our social systems. -[3742.00 --> 3743.02] But these things, they run -[3743.02 --> 3745.16] counter to Christ and we need -[3745.16 --> 3746.10] to be aware of them. -[3747.62 --> 3749.44] So why are these idols so bad -[3749.44 --> 3750.46] and how do we combat them? -[3750.46 --> 3751.64] We're going to look at that for -[3751.64 --> 3752.44] the rest of this message. -[3753.18 --> 3754.96] Rest, obedience, and community -[3754.96 --> 3757.34] combat each of these idols. -[3757.80 --> 3759.06] Rest combats busyness. -[3759.82 --> 3761.18] Obedience combats autonomy. -[3761.18 --> 3763.02] And community combats -[3763.02 --> 3763.82] individualism. -[3764.12 --> 3765.16] And my hope is that as we -[3765.16 --> 3766.14] leave here today, we will -[3766.14 --> 3767.80] know that we can persevere in -[3767.80 --> 3769.68] this world by obeying Christ -[3769.68 --> 3771.90] and resting in community. -[3772.46 --> 3773.50] So let's look at those three. -[3773.58 --> 3775.26] Number one, rest combats -[3775.26 --> 3776.16] busyness. -[3777.12 --> 3777.82] Listen to this quote. -[3778.74 --> 3782.28] In a 24-7, restless, work-addicted, -[3782.54 --> 3784.14] anxious-presence culture, -[3785.32 --> 3787.40] Sabbath is an act of resistance. -[3788.64 --> 3789.04] Oof. -[3791.18 --> 3793.88] In a 24-7, restless, work-addicted, -[3794.04 --> 3795.30] anxious-presence culture, -[3795.48 --> 3798.02] Sabbath is an act of resistance. -[3798.14 --> 3799.40] This idea of a Sabbath day, -[3799.48 --> 3800.56] a day of rest, -[3800.96 --> 3802.64] which is still something -[3802.64 --> 3804.10] that God calls us to today, -[3804.62 --> 3806.50] this was and continues to be -[3806.50 --> 3808.92] a very unique calling -[3808.92 --> 3810.54] for God's people. -[3810.88 --> 3812.06] In Exodus 20, 8-10, -[3812.36 --> 3813.54] God commands that his people -[3813.54 --> 3814.64] remember the Sabbath day -[3814.64 --> 3815.46] by keeping it holy. -[3815.82 --> 3817.10] Six days you should labor -[3817.10 --> 3817.86] and do all your work, -[3817.86 --> 3818.80] but the seventh day -[3818.80 --> 3820.26] is a Sabbath day -[3820.26 --> 3821.62] unto the Lord your God. -[3821.68 --> 3823.38] On it you shall do no work, -[3823.78 --> 3825.22] neither you nor your son or daughter, -[3825.30 --> 3826.66] nor your male or female servant, -[3826.86 --> 3827.70] nor your animals, -[3827.84 --> 3828.60] nor any foreigner -[3828.60 --> 3830.54] residing in your towns. -[3830.78 --> 3832.40] This ran very counter -[3832.40 --> 3833.20] to what the nations -[3833.20 --> 3834.34] around them were doing. -[3835.34 --> 3835.92] And then actually, -[3836.04 --> 3837.08] Jesus comes along -[3837.08 --> 3839.30] and he challenges -[3839.30 --> 3840.34] the Jewish people -[3840.34 --> 3842.12] whom were trying their best -[3842.12 --> 3843.28] to obey this commandment, -[3843.28 --> 3844.54] and he challenges them -[3844.54 --> 3845.96] to observe it well. -[3846.52 --> 3847.82] See, Jesus was frustrated -[3847.82 --> 3848.80] because they had turned it -[3848.80 --> 3849.94] instead of a day of rest -[3849.94 --> 3851.16] into a day of rules. -[3853.40 --> 3854.68] And so in Mark 2, -[3854.74 --> 3856.22] verses 23-28, -[3856.28 --> 3857.42] feel free to leave that later, -[3857.52 --> 3858.40] basically the Pharisees -[3858.40 --> 3859.26] get mad at Jesus -[3859.26 --> 3860.90] because him and his disciples -[3860.90 --> 3861.80] are picking some grain -[3861.80 --> 3862.56] on the Sabbath day -[3862.56 --> 3863.86] and Jesus calls them out -[3863.86 --> 3865.06] reminding them of a story -[3865.06 --> 3865.88] about King David -[3865.88 --> 3866.78] and he tells them -[3866.78 --> 3867.52] that Sabbath day -[3867.52 --> 3869.88] isn't a day to follow rules, -[3870.44 --> 3871.40] it's a day of rest. -[3871.40 --> 3872.18] And he says, -[3872.38 --> 3874.40] the Sabbath was made for man, -[3874.76 --> 3875.98] not man for the Sabbath. -[3876.88 --> 3878.50] So the Son of Man is Lord, -[3879.00 --> 3880.04] even of the Sabbath. -[3880.28 --> 3881.66] This day of rest -[3881.66 --> 3883.00] was made for man -[3883.00 --> 3884.38] as a day to slow down -[3884.38 --> 3886.16] and to be with God -[3886.16 --> 3887.96] and be with his people. -[3889.58 --> 3891.04] So the concept of rest -[3891.04 --> 3891.66] runs deep, -[3891.70 --> 3892.88] it runs right from the beginning -[3892.88 --> 3893.70] of God's people. -[3896.04 --> 3898.04] Sadly, the idea of Sabbath, -[3898.16 --> 3899.08] it's kind of gone away -[3899.08 --> 3900.10] in our culture, hasn't it? -[3900.10 --> 3902.66] It wasn't even 20, 30 years ago -[3902.66 --> 3903.98] many businesses were closed -[3903.98 --> 3904.54] on Sunday -[3904.54 --> 3905.08] and now it's hard -[3905.08 --> 3906.06] to find one not open. -[3907.24 --> 3907.88] There's events, -[3908.02 --> 3908.96] extracurricular activities, -[3909.08 --> 3909.70] sports, you name it. -[3909.74 --> 3910.42] Sundays are not -[3910.42 --> 3912.02] cultural days off anymore. -[3913.42 --> 3915.00] But actually beyond Sabbath, -[3915.16 --> 3915.80] if you're just talking -[3915.80 --> 3916.44] about rest, -[3916.50 --> 3917.64] even rest in general -[3917.64 --> 3918.50] is frowned upon, -[3918.56 --> 3918.88] isn't it? -[3922.38 --> 3923.56] Busyness is praised. -[3924.70 --> 3925.02] And in fact, -[3925.10 --> 3925.94] busyness is now -[3925.94 --> 3926.84] a mark of pride -[3926.84 --> 3927.72] or a mark of success. -[3927.72 --> 3928.62] This is what some -[3928.62 --> 3930.46] of the most successful men -[3930.46 --> 3932.18] and please don't, -[3932.78 --> 3934.80] please notice the air quotes here. -[3934.88 --> 3935.38] This is what some -[3935.38 --> 3936.58] of the most successful men -[3936.58 --> 3937.92] in our world boast about. -[3938.40 --> 3939.98] Elon Musk boasts -[3939.98 --> 3942.68] about working 80 to 100 hours a week. -[3943.04 --> 3943.66] Jeff Bezos, -[3943.80 --> 3944.56] the Amazon guy, -[3944.66 --> 3945.94] he boasts of the same thing. -[3946.70 --> 3947.40] Kevin O'Leary, -[3947.54 --> 3948.54] the guy from Shark Tank, -[3948.60 --> 3949.28] I think he owns a bunch -[3949.28 --> 3949.92] of Boston pizzas -[3949.92 --> 3951.00] and probably a billion other things. -[3951.36 --> 3952.24] He said the following, -[3952.30 --> 3952.82] listen to this quote, -[3953.14 --> 3954.20] you want to be successful? -[3954.52 --> 3955.80] Forget about work-life balance. -[3955.80 --> 3958.08] You need to work 25 hours a day, -[3958.32 --> 3959.52] seven days a week forever. -[3959.92 --> 3960.74] That's what it takes. -[3961.68 --> 3962.16] Oh, Kevin. -[3965.34 --> 3966.60] If we want more proof, -[3967.10 --> 3968.00] here's an easy one. -[3968.08 --> 3968.92] Here's an easy example. -[3970.78 --> 3972.32] What's the most common answer -[3972.32 --> 3973.32] given to this question? -[3974.18 --> 3974.78] How are you? -[3977.56 --> 3977.96] Busy. -[3979.64 --> 3980.52] Yeah, busy. -[3980.68 --> 3981.16] How are you? -[3981.28 --> 3981.70] Oh, busy. -[3982.80 --> 3984.26] If someone ever said the opposite, -[3984.26 --> 3985.12] wouldn't that be shocking? -[3985.80 --> 3986.06] Right? -[3986.14 --> 3986.72] Like if you came up, -[3986.88 --> 3987.76] hey, Kevin, how are you? -[3987.90 --> 3989.14] Oh, super relaxed, actually. -[3989.30 --> 3990.06] No, not busy at all. -[3990.10 --> 3990.64] Things are slow. -[3991.14 --> 3991.56] Things are slow. -[3991.58 --> 3992.64] I've been resting lots. -[3993.20 --> 3994.68] Not a ton happening these days. -[3994.78 --> 3995.96] I enjoyed both the sunrise -[3995.96 --> 3996.70] and the sunset. -[3996.82 --> 3997.54] Did you know it did both? -[3998.96 --> 3999.82] Clouds roll in. -[3999.86 --> 4001.04] I watched those this week. -[4001.08 --> 4001.96] I even had time to read -[4001.96 --> 4003.04] the Chronicles of Narnia. -[4003.30 --> 4004.22] C.S. Lewis wrote that. -[4004.26 --> 4004.74] Have you heard of him? -[4004.78 --> 4005.44] I think he's a Christian. -[4006.78 --> 4008.34] Like you'd be concerned, right? -[4008.88 --> 4009.76] If that was my response. -[4009.80 --> 4010.16] In fact, -[4010.38 --> 4011.82] some of you might even be angry -[4011.82 --> 4012.72] and you'd have to write -[4012.72 --> 4013.62] counsel a letter being, -[4013.62 --> 4014.82] what are you paying this guy for? -[4014.82 --> 4016.04] He's not busy enough. -[4019.90 --> 4021.82] Joke, but it's a mark of pride, -[4021.88 --> 4022.32] isn't it? -[4025.08 --> 4027.00] The problem with answering the question, -[4027.12 --> 4028.32] how are you if I'm busy, -[4028.48 --> 4030.26] is if you're busy all the time, -[4030.50 --> 4031.88] if that's always your answer, -[4032.68 --> 4034.38] busyness has to be relative -[4034.38 --> 4035.16] to something. -[4036.22 --> 4036.38] Right? -[4036.64 --> 4037.82] Busyness has to be relative -[4037.82 --> 4038.94] to your normal life. -[4038.94 --> 4040.16] So the problem, -[4040.28 --> 4041.44] if you're always busy, -[4042.16 --> 4043.44] you're not busy. -[4044.20 --> 4045.34] That's normal life. -[4046.02 --> 4047.24] That's the life you're living. -[4048.40 --> 4049.74] Perhaps we've made it that way. -[4049.84 --> 4050.86] Perhaps you've made it that way. -[4050.94 --> 4052.24] Perhaps that's been pushed upon you. -[4052.30 --> 4052.68] But that's, -[4052.82 --> 4053.40] you're not busy. -[4053.48 --> 4054.08] That's normal. -[4055.90 --> 4057.72] We answer the question that way -[4057.72 --> 4060.02] because that's the expectation -[4060.02 --> 4061.26] that we've put on each other. -[4061.26 --> 4062.58] Because if you're not busy, -[4062.84 --> 4063.94] you're lazy, -[4064.30 --> 4065.08] or you're sluggish, -[4065.22 --> 4066.30] or you're uninspiring. -[4067.32 --> 4069.12] Again, being busy is a mark of pride, -[4069.92 --> 4071.24] a mark of success, -[4072.18 --> 4074.34] a mark of proper functioning -[4074.34 --> 4075.14] in this world. -[4076.10 --> 4076.98] Not being busy, -[4077.06 --> 4077.56] that's a sin. -[4078.26 --> 4079.14] If you're not busy, -[4079.70 --> 4080.54] you should be doing more. -[4081.06 --> 4081.66] Write those letters. -[4081.66 --> 4085.70] See, we see the mark of busyness -[4085.70 --> 4086.64] in the church, too. -[4086.74 --> 4087.76] Church attendance isn't -[4087.76 --> 4089.36] a priority anymore. -[4089.48 --> 4090.66] Sports is taking president, -[4090.80 --> 4091.56] amongst other things. -[4091.90 --> 4093.00] We see it Sunday mornings. -[4093.18 --> 4093.66] We see it in, -[4093.66 --> 4094.60] I see it in youth ministry, -[4094.70 --> 4095.06] for sure. -[4096.18 --> 4097.54] We see it in other ministries. -[4097.62 --> 4098.58] I know it's not just me. -[4099.06 --> 4099.22] I know, -[4099.32 --> 4100.44] I'm sure we've all noticed it. -[4101.54 --> 4102.44] The reason I'm sure -[4102.44 --> 4103.16] we've all felt it, -[4103.24 --> 4103.88] the reason I'm sure -[4103.88 --> 4104.68] we've all noticed it, -[4104.72 --> 4105.88] is because we know deep down -[4105.88 --> 4107.56] it's true for almost all of us. -[4108.94 --> 4109.38] Busy. -[4109.38 --> 4113.68] I think the reason -[4113.68 --> 4114.42] we know it's true -[4114.42 --> 4115.36] is because God -[4115.36 --> 4116.66] doesn't desire -[4116.66 --> 4118.08] us to be busy. -[4119.18 --> 4120.54] God desires us -[4120.54 --> 4121.40] to be faithful. -[4123.18 --> 4124.54] He intends for us -[4124.54 --> 4125.82] to find rest in Him. -[4127.66 --> 4128.76] He intends for us -[4128.76 --> 4130.14] to find rest in His work. -[4131.98 --> 4133.76] Our busyness needs to shift -[4133.76 --> 4134.98] and be God-oriented, -[4135.18 --> 4136.16] others-oriented. -[4136.38 --> 4137.76] If we're answering the question, -[4137.88 --> 4138.38] how are you, -[4138.38 --> 4139.54] with busy all the time? -[4139.96 --> 4141.32] We need to turn to God -[4141.32 --> 4142.56] and find our rest in Him. -[4143.14 --> 4144.24] We need to fill our schedules -[4144.24 --> 4145.32] with His work. -[4145.58 --> 4147.42] We need to put on His yoke -[4147.42 --> 4148.06] on our shoulders -[4148.06 --> 4149.12] and find God's voice -[4149.12 --> 4150.54] in His Word. -[4151.68 --> 4153.40] We need to learn from Christ. -[4153.66 --> 4154.46] Slow down. -[4155.18 --> 4156.36] Practice Sabbath rest. -[4157.40 --> 4159.06] Don't let the idol of busyness -[4159.06 --> 4160.04] run our lives anymore. -[4160.14 --> 4162.66] Let's obey the Savior -[4162.66 --> 4165.08] and find our rest in Him. -[4165.08 --> 4167.08] Obey. -[4167.22 --> 4167.66] Obedience. -[4167.74 --> 4168.26] There's your segue. -[4168.42 --> 4168.82] Number two, -[4169.14 --> 4171.54] obedience counters autonomy. -[4173.04 --> 4174.10] Autonomy is the idea -[4174.10 --> 4175.24] of self-government, -[4175.36 --> 4177.16] that we can govern ourselves -[4177.16 --> 4178.72] as individuals -[4178.72 --> 4180.24] based on a set of morals. -[4180.40 --> 4181.74] It's very, very popular -[4181.74 --> 4182.78] in our culture right now. -[4182.82 --> 4184.98] This is only gaining ground -[4184.98 --> 4185.46] as well. -[4185.54 --> 4186.02] But the problem is -[4186.02 --> 4186.70] those morals, -[4187.18 --> 4188.70] the goalposts keep shifting. -[4188.84 --> 4189.46] And so it's becoming -[4189.46 --> 4190.30] pretty tricky -[4190.30 --> 4191.98] to be able to practice -[4191.98 --> 4193.18] self-government. -[4194.34 --> 4195.50] Autonomy can simply -[4195.50 --> 4196.70] be summed up in two phrases. -[4196.92 --> 4197.80] And I think you've probably -[4197.80 --> 4198.68] all heard both of them. -[4199.10 --> 4199.56] First one, -[4199.60 --> 4200.68] as long as you're not hurting anyone, -[4201.02 --> 4201.72] do whatever you want. -[4202.86 --> 4203.28] It's autonomy. -[4203.64 --> 4204.38] If you haven't heard of that one, -[4204.42 --> 4204.80] you've probably heard -[4204.80 --> 4205.34] of this next one. -[4205.38 --> 4205.86] It's even shorter. -[4206.26 --> 4206.94] You do you. -[4208.08 --> 4208.22] Right? -[4208.98 --> 4209.70] That's autonomy. -[4211.42 --> 4212.10] That's autonomy. -[4212.88 --> 4214.24] We can govern ourselves. -[4215.68 --> 4216.26] Until then, -[4216.32 --> 4218.46] so submitting to obedience, -[4218.68 --> 4220.24] especially to some God, -[4220.24 --> 4221.84] that's not only useless -[4221.84 --> 4222.64] in our culture, -[4222.76 --> 4223.94] it makes us intolerant -[4223.94 --> 4224.66] or narrow-minded. -[4225.50 --> 4226.34] That's what the world -[4226.34 --> 4227.28] is telling us anyway. -[4228.36 --> 4228.82] See, autonomy, -[4228.98 --> 4230.28] it seeks self-love. -[4230.36 --> 4231.46] What makes you happy? -[4231.74 --> 4232.92] What makes you feel -[4232.92 --> 4233.40] like yourself? -[4233.56 --> 4234.52] What philosophies -[4234.52 --> 4236.58] do you root your identity in? -[4236.64 --> 4237.74] What rights exists -[4237.74 --> 4240.40] for you to function the best? -[4240.52 --> 4242.12] We pick and choose then. -[4242.22 --> 4242.82] We get to. -[4242.92 --> 4244.08] We get to pick and choose -[4244.08 --> 4245.50] what side of hot-button issues -[4245.50 --> 4246.78] we land on -[4246.78 --> 4248.20] and then our self-governing selves -[4248.20 --> 4249.00] can take over. -[4249.00 --> 4250.62] We get to dig our heels -[4250.62 --> 4251.62] in where we want to. -[4252.38 --> 4253.46] We identify then -[4253.46 --> 4254.96] with different belief systems, -[4255.08 --> 4256.26] not necessarily realizing -[4256.26 --> 4257.88] that identity ideas -[4257.88 --> 4258.64] become idols -[4258.64 --> 4260.60] as soon as we stop identifying -[4260.60 --> 4262.26] with being one of God's children, -[4262.52 --> 4263.08] as soon as we try -[4263.08 --> 4264.42] to discover our identities -[4264.42 --> 4265.32] instead of receive -[4265.32 --> 4267.02] our identities in Christ. -[4267.26 --> 4268.20] And no matter the issue, -[4269.08 --> 4271.94] what happens with autonomy -[4271.94 --> 4274.52] is that autonomy leads -[4274.52 --> 4275.40] to echo chambers. -[4275.40 --> 4278.70] like thinking leads -[4278.70 --> 4280.58] to people who think like you. -[4281.52 --> 4282.76] And soon all people here -[4282.76 --> 4283.72] are the same voices -[4283.72 --> 4284.70] all the time -[4284.70 --> 4285.56] on the same issues. -[4286.56 --> 4287.66] They hang out together, -[4287.74 --> 4288.62] they chat together, -[4289.18 --> 4290.94] they move away from anyone -[4290.94 --> 4291.80] who thinks differently, -[4292.02 --> 4293.42] and this drives people -[4293.42 --> 4294.30] deeper and deeper -[4294.30 --> 4296.58] into their own autonomous beliefs -[4296.58 --> 4297.52] and pushes people -[4297.52 --> 4298.26] who believe differently -[4298.26 --> 4299.64] the other direction. -[4299.64 --> 4302.04] And so we read articles -[4302.04 --> 4302.66] or books -[4302.66 --> 4303.72] or watch videos, -[4303.84 --> 4305.16] most likely with little -[4305.16 --> 4306.16] or no objectivity. -[4306.42 --> 4309.10] We come across things online -[4309.10 --> 4311.28] in our algorithm-manipulated news feed, -[4311.38 --> 4312.68] something that already jives -[4312.68 --> 4314.84] with our implicit preconceptions -[4314.84 --> 4316.76] and serves our confirmation biases. -[4316.98 --> 4318.60] And then we subconsciously apply -[4318.60 --> 4320.28] our own emotional filters -[4320.28 --> 4321.90] and proclaim it as truth -[4321.90 --> 4323.86] because that's what we've believed -[4323.86 --> 4324.96] all along. -[4325.10 --> 4326.38] That's what we already thought, -[4326.44 --> 4327.22] and that's the truth -[4327.22 --> 4328.14] that we've taught ourselves. -[4328.14 --> 4331.48] And we do it in church too. -[4332.82 --> 4333.98] For many of us, -[4334.28 --> 4335.36] and here's a risky comment, -[4336.72 --> 4338.34] a sermon is only a good sermon -[4338.34 --> 4339.98] if what the pastor said -[4339.98 --> 4341.50] aligned with what we already believed. -[4342.96 --> 4343.76] That's autonomy. -[4345.60 --> 4346.60] And self-government -[4346.60 --> 4347.38] done in a world -[4347.38 --> 4349.02] without gatekeeping of information, -[4349.96 --> 4351.06] it's led to these pockets -[4351.06 --> 4352.70] of autonomous thinkers -[4352.70 --> 4354.24] where we're all philosophers -[4354.24 --> 4355.46] of our own self-love, -[4355.56 --> 4356.86] our own understanding of this world, -[4356.86 --> 4358.30] and our own happiness within it, -[4359.20 --> 4360.32] and without actually thinking, -[4360.44 --> 4362.42] people silo themselves from others. -[4362.70 --> 4363.96] We don't even do it on purpose, -[4364.12 --> 4364.70] sadly, anymore. -[4365.02 --> 4365.76] We are all victims -[4365.76 --> 4367.10] of trying to find our own truths -[4367.10 --> 4368.24] in a world with algorithms -[4368.24 --> 4369.38] and echo chambers. -[4369.50 --> 4370.28] But here's the problem. -[4370.70 --> 4373.04] God doesn't challenge us -[4373.04 --> 4374.24] to find our own truths. -[4375.54 --> 4376.54] God doesn't tell us -[4376.54 --> 4377.56] to root our identities -[4377.56 --> 4379.02] in the ideas of this world. -[4380.08 --> 4381.22] God doesn't want us -[4381.22 --> 4381.86] to contribute -[4381.86 --> 4382.96] to the echo chambers -[4382.96 --> 4384.50] that we find ourselves in. -[4384.72 --> 4385.72] God doesn't like -[4385.72 --> 4386.90] his people siloed. -[4387.98 --> 4389.12] God doesn't call us -[4389.12 --> 4390.00] to self-love. -[4391.12 --> 4392.08] He calls us -[4392.08 --> 4393.30] to selfless love. -[4394.40 --> 4396.00] Love calls us -[4396.00 --> 4396.62] to obedience. -[4397.62 --> 4398.40] God's love -[4398.40 --> 4399.02] calls us -[4399.02 --> 4399.62] to obedience. -[4401.32 --> 4402.08] We're called -[4402.08 --> 4403.04] to obedience in him, -[4403.12 --> 4403.58] not ourselves, -[4403.70 --> 4405.20] not our own self-government. -[4405.20 --> 4407.26] We can't take God's word -[4407.26 --> 4408.76] and then try to spin it -[4408.76 --> 4409.32] to fit it -[4409.32 --> 4410.58] into our own worldviews -[4410.58 --> 4412.16] or fit it into our silos. -[4412.48 --> 4413.96] We have to take his word -[4413.96 --> 4414.98] and obey it. -[4415.80 --> 4416.54] Live it out. -[4417.36 --> 4418.42] Even if it's hard. -[4421.12 --> 4422.32] Because no matter what, -[4423.40 --> 4424.60] if we're following God's word, -[4424.66 --> 4426.06] if we obey God's word, -[4426.56 --> 4428.38] we are all inevitably -[4428.38 --> 4429.48] going to be pushing back -[4429.48 --> 4430.50] against an echo chamber -[4430.50 --> 4431.90] that we find ourselves in today. -[4432.98 --> 4434.22] Maybe that echo chamber -[4434.22 --> 4435.94] has to do with human freedoms -[4435.94 --> 4436.96] or government control. -[4437.04 --> 4437.80] Maybe that echo chamber -[4437.80 --> 4438.38] has to do with -[4438.38 --> 4439.54] human sexuality -[4439.54 --> 4440.08] or identity. -[4440.26 --> 4441.60] Maybe that echo chamber -[4441.60 --> 4442.50] has to do with capitalism -[4442.50 --> 4443.34] or socialism -[4443.34 --> 4444.46] or pick another-ism. -[4445.62 --> 4446.62] But at some point, -[4446.70 --> 4448.10] obeying God's word -[4448.10 --> 4449.82] is going to cause you -[4449.82 --> 4450.48] to brush up -[4450.48 --> 4451.40] against one of these -[4451.40 --> 4452.58] human-made constructs -[4452.58 --> 4452.92] or ideas -[4452.92 --> 4454.74] that make comfortable -[4454.74 --> 4456.18] echo chamber you -[4456.18 --> 4456.88] find yourself -[4456.88 --> 4459.06] in a very awkward situation. -[4461.06 --> 4461.98] But we're not supposed -[4461.98 --> 4462.88] to be living in silos. -[4462.88 --> 4464.02] We're supposed to be living -[4464.02 --> 4465.08] as the body of Christ. -[4465.38 --> 4466.04] That's our calling. -[4466.12 --> 4467.26] We're not called to autonomy. -[4467.40 --> 4468.20] We're called to obedience. -[4468.46 --> 4469.42] We're called to community. -[4470.10 --> 4472.26] Obedience conquers autonomy -[4472.26 --> 4474.78] and pushes us to community, -[4474.90 --> 4475.66] which is the third thing. -[4475.74 --> 4478.34] Community conquers individualism. -[4479.42 --> 4480.28] Here's another quote. -[4481.46 --> 4483.20] In a hyper-individualistic, -[4483.32 --> 4484.82] anonymous, self-love, -[4484.96 --> 4486.28] you-do-you culture, -[4486.92 --> 4489.10] community is an act of resistance. -[4489.10 --> 4490.96] Another oof. -[4492.78 --> 4494.00] See, not only is community -[4494.00 --> 4495.78] a resistance to individualism, -[4495.86 --> 4497.36] but if we're called to obey, -[4498.10 --> 4498.68] and we are, -[4499.60 --> 4501.06] community will be a response -[4501.06 --> 4501.92] to that obedience. -[4503.36 --> 4504.16] Again, if you look at our -[4504.16 --> 4505.34] first John text, for example, -[4506.02 --> 4508.44] I've added some emphasis here. -[4508.78 --> 4509.50] This is the message -[4509.50 --> 4511.02] we have heard from him -[4511.02 --> 4511.82] and declare to you. -[4512.16 --> 4512.72] God is light. -[4512.80 --> 4514.16] In him there is no darkness at all. -[4514.16 --> 4516.84] If we claim to have fellowship with him -[4516.84 --> 4518.80] and yet walk in darkness, -[4519.20 --> 4521.54] we lie and do not live out the truth. -[4521.62 --> 4523.22] But if we walk in the light -[4523.22 --> 4524.36] as he is in the light, -[4524.68 --> 4526.30] we will have fellowship -[4526.30 --> 4527.50] with one another. -[4528.38 --> 4529.36] And the blood of Jesus, -[4529.64 --> 4531.34] his son, purifies us -[4531.34 --> 4533.36] from all sin. -[4533.96 --> 4536.46] Hebrews is even more blunt. -[4536.74 --> 4538.78] Hebrews 10, 23 to 24, -[4538.86 --> 4539.20] says this, -[4539.30 --> 4541.20] Let us hold unswervingly -[4541.20 --> 4542.34] to the hope we profess. -[4542.34 --> 4544.12] For he who promised is faithful. -[4544.46 --> 4545.60] And let us consider -[4545.60 --> 4547.96] how we may spur one another on -[4547.96 --> 4549.12] toward love and good deeds, -[4549.62 --> 4551.54] not giving up meeting one another -[4551.54 --> 4553.08] as some in the habit are doing, -[4553.46 --> 4554.94] but encouraging one another. -[4555.62 --> 4556.62] And all the more -[4556.62 --> 4557.68] as you see the day approaching. -[4557.86 --> 4558.66] If we obey, -[4558.92 --> 4560.28] we will live in this community. -[4560.40 --> 4561.22] We will find rest, -[4561.24 --> 4562.54] as we discussed earlier, -[4562.64 --> 4564.14] in this community. -[4567.14 --> 4568.20] But we can be guilty -[4568.20 --> 4569.26] of taking the we -[4569.26 --> 4570.70] out of community a little bit too. -[4570.70 --> 4571.92] I find this church -[4571.92 --> 4573.00] gets the community thing. -[4573.08 --> 4573.66] I think we are -[4573.66 --> 4574.68] a tight-knit community. -[4574.84 --> 4576.00] We are a welcoming community. -[4576.50 --> 4576.98] And yet, -[4577.06 --> 4577.74] there are moments -[4577.74 --> 4579.40] when we take the we out -[4579.40 --> 4580.22] sometimes. -[4581.00 --> 4581.54] Isn't there? -[4581.56 --> 4582.30] We say things like, -[4582.70 --> 4584.00] I don't really like that song. -[4584.56 --> 4584.78] Or, -[4584.98 --> 4585.86] that sermon really didn't -[4585.86 --> 4586.82] do anything for me. -[4587.68 --> 4587.90] Or, -[4587.96 --> 4588.76] I'm not going to go -[4588.76 --> 4589.34] to that ministry -[4589.34 --> 4591.74] because I'm not getting -[4591.74 --> 4592.56] anything out of it. -[4593.90 --> 4595.02] But what happens is, -[4595.08 --> 4596.02] we forget that some people -[4596.02 --> 4596.94] really love that song. -[4596.94 --> 4598.98] And it touches their heart -[4598.98 --> 4600.36] in a way we won't understand -[4600.36 --> 4601.68] until we stop complaining -[4601.68 --> 4603.10] and we ask them about it. -[4604.16 --> 4604.56] Or, -[4604.62 --> 4606.06] that sermon really encouraged -[4606.06 --> 4607.12] or convicted someone else, -[4607.20 --> 4608.76] but our sour attitude towards it -[4608.76 --> 4609.56] means they aren't going -[4609.56 --> 4610.50] to tell you why. -[4612.00 --> 4612.18] Or, -[4612.22 --> 4613.14] that ministry that you -[4613.14 --> 4614.64] don't get anything out of -[4614.64 --> 4616.52] isn't about you -[4616.52 --> 4617.62] getting something out of it. -[4617.68 --> 4618.62] It might be about you -[4618.62 --> 4619.68] giving something to it. -[4620.12 --> 4621.62] And the body who gathers there -[4621.62 --> 4622.58] is missing you. -[4622.58 --> 4626.24] Individualism gets in the way -[4626.24 --> 4626.94] of community. -[4627.82 --> 4628.82] But if we stop asking -[4628.82 --> 4631.08] what is church doing for me -[4631.08 --> 4631.86] and start asking -[4631.86 --> 4633.40] what can I do for the church? -[4633.48 --> 4634.28] What can I do -[4634.28 --> 4635.98] for my brothers and sisters? -[4636.06 --> 4636.66] Now we're talking. -[4637.40 --> 4638.22] We start being there -[4638.22 --> 4638.78] for each other. -[4638.88 --> 4639.88] We start sharing the load. -[4640.12 --> 4641.50] We start accomplishing more -[4641.50 --> 4642.84] as a family. -[4642.96 --> 4643.94] We start rejoicing -[4643.94 --> 4644.68] with each other -[4644.68 --> 4645.90] when we rejoice. -[4646.06 --> 4646.80] We start mourning -[4646.80 --> 4647.42] with each other -[4647.42 --> 4648.22] when we mourn -[4648.22 --> 4649.64] and grieving with each other -[4649.64 --> 4650.42] when we grieve. -[4650.42 --> 4653.42] And that switch in mentality, -[4653.64 --> 4654.78] it runs counter -[4654.78 --> 4656.70] to the individualism -[4656.70 --> 4657.40] that we live in. -[4657.54 --> 4659.06] We can stop thinking -[4659.06 --> 4659.92] of our own happiness -[4659.92 --> 4660.90] or our own identities -[4660.90 --> 4661.84] or our own preferences -[4661.84 --> 4663.06] because we start thinking -[4663.06 --> 4664.08] of our brothers and sisters -[4664.08 --> 4665.02] and that brings us -[4665.02 --> 4666.34] joy and happiness. -[4668.92 --> 4669.88] We start thinking -[4669.88 --> 4670.90] of those around us, -[4671.16 --> 4672.46] of the poor and the needy, -[4673.18 --> 4674.36] of the widow and the orphan, -[4674.50 --> 4674.98] the mourning, -[4675.32 --> 4675.80] the grieving, -[4676.00 --> 4676.80] the least of these. -[4677.96 --> 4678.88] And that becomes -[4678.88 --> 4679.92] a lot less selfish. -[4680.42 --> 4681.40] And our relationships -[4681.40 --> 4682.56] become a lot more -[4682.56 --> 4683.60] robust and full. -[4686.60 --> 4687.72] We're going to land here. -[4688.50 --> 4689.78] But the beauty is -[4689.78 --> 4691.18] that we can only be -[4691.18 --> 4692.24] in this true community -[4692.24 --> 4693.16] because of Jesus. -[4694.66 --> 4695.50] Dietrich Bonhoeffer -[4695.50 --> 4696.98] sums it up brilliantly. -[4697.28 --> 4698.18] And so I'm just going to read him -[4698.18 --> 4698.82] because he's way smarter -[4698.82 --> 4699.28] than I am. -[4699.78 --> 4700.72] He says this in his book -[4700.72 --> 4701.26] Life Together. -[4702.26 --> 4703.16] Without Christ, -[4703.16 --> 4704.54] we also would not know -[4704.54 --> 4705.68] our brother or sister, -[4705.94 --> 4707.24] nor could we come to them. -[4707.72 --> 4708.56] The way is blocked -[4708.56 --> 4710.08] by our own ego. -[4711.42 --> 4711.94] Individualism. -[4713.20 --> 4714.28] Christ opened up the way -[4714.28 --> 4715.40] to God and to our brother -[4715.40 --> 4715.88] and sister. -[4716.22 --> 4717.22] Now Christians can live -[4717.22 --> 4718.22] with one another in peace. -[4718.50 --> 4719.46] They can love and serve -[4719.46 --> 4719.82] one another. -[4719.92 --> 4721.34] They can become one. -[4721.54 --> 4722.52] But they can continue -[4722.52 --> 4723.52] to do so only -[4723.52 --> 4725.22] by the way of Jesus Christ. -[4725.44 --> 4726.68] Only in Jesus Christ -[4726.68 --> 4727.54] are we one. -[4727.92 --> 4728.84] Only through him -[4728.84 --> 4730.04] are we bound together. -[4730.80 --> 4731.54] To eternity, -[4731.76 --> 4732.58] he remains -[4732.58 --> 4734.14] the one mediator. -[4734.14 --> 4736.50] That's the community -[4736.50 --> 4738.36] that conquers individualism. -[4739.44 --> 4740.58] And so Christ's gospel truth, -[4740.82 --> 4741.56] his life, death, -[4741.62 --> 4742.08] and resurrection -[4742.08 --> 4742.80] from the tomb, -[4743.28 --> 4744.54] defeating sin and misery -[4744.54 --> 4745.36] and paving the way -[4745.36 --> 4746.28] for eternity with him -[4746.28 --> 4746.96] for all believers, -[4747.14 --> 4748.28] that gives us -[4748.28 --> 4749.02] eternal rest. -[4750.50 --> 4751.64] So go and take his yoke. -[4752.74 --> 4753.32] Rest in him -[4753.32 --> 4754.32] by working for him. -[4754.40 --> 4755.38] Unplug from this world -[4755.38 --> 4756.50] and know him more. -[4756.62 --> 4757.72] Read his word. -[4758.48 --> 4759.94] Invite him into your life -[4759.94 --> 4760.84] each and every day. -[4762.94 --> 4764.28] That's our call to obedience. -[4764.72 --> 4765.52] To live for him -[4765.52 --> 4767.14] and then live for each other. -[4767.94 --> 4768.72] So be in community. -[4768.86 --> 4769.92] Meet together regularly. -[4770.40 --> 4771.84] Here on Sundays for sure, yes. -[4772.04 --> 4773.36] But outside of Sundays too, -[4773.46 --> 4775.28] share meals with one another. -[4776.06 --> 4776.76] Commune together. -[4776.92 --> 4778.00] Learn about each other. -[4778.84 --> 4779.74] Encourage one another. -[4779.88 --> 4781.32] Find ways to add -[4781.32 --> 4782.22] your brothers and sisters -[4782.22 --> 4784.64] into your regular rhythms of life. -[4784.70 --> 4786.66] And let's all find new ways -[4786.66 --> 4788.46] to rest in God's family. -[4788.64 --> 4788.84] Amen? -[4789.72 --> 4790.38] Let me pray. -[4792.72 --> 4793.52] Father in heaven, -[4794.64 --> 4797.72] life can be overwhelming sometimes. -[4798.46 --> 4799.78] In the midst of the busyness -[4799.78 --> 4800.30] of the world, -[4800.38 --> 4801.68] the joys, the sorrows, Lord, -[4802.22 --> 4803.32] we can forget about you -[4803.32 --> 4804.70] and we can forget about your work -[4804.70 --> 4805.62] that you call us to. -[4806.62 --> 4807.58] Lord, stir in our hearts. -[4807.72 --> 4809.40] Find us ways to rest in you. -[4810.18 --> 4811.40] Allow us to dig into your word, -[4811.46 --> 4812.62] to pray, to meditate. -[4812.62 --> 4816.44] Allow us to obey -[4816.44 --> 4817.54] what you call us to do. -[4818.74 --> 4820.20] And Lord, let us rest in community. -[4820.44 --> 4821.64] You call us to this community. -[4821.76 --> 4822.90] May we be there for one another. -[4823.96 --> 4824.88] May we push back -[4824.88 --> 4826.48] against what culture pushes on us. -[4827.12 --> 4828.04] Things like autonomy, -[4828.68 --> 4829.52] individualism, God. -[4829.56 --> 4830.86] And may we know -[4830.86 --> 4832.28] that our calling is to obey you -[4832.28 --> 4834.06] and be there for one another. -[4834.22 --> 4835.02] May we do that -[4835.02 --> 4836.70] willingly and lovingly, God. -[4837.30 --> 4838.28] May you encourage us -[4838.28 --> 4839.54] in the ways we are doing that well. -[4840.34 --> 4841.22] May you convict us -[4841.22 --> 4841.68] in the ways -[4841.68 --> 4842.76] that we need to be convicted. -[4843.68 --> 4844.62] And above all, God, -[4844.66 --> 4845.68] may you be glorified -[4845.68 --> 4847.64] as we go about these holy habits. -[4847.80 --> 4848.56] In your name, amen. -[4848.56 --> 4848.66] Amen. -[4848.66 --> 4852.62] Amen. -[4854.90 --> 4855.30] Amen. -[4857.38 --> 4857.98] Amen. -[4857.98 --> 4858.22] Amen. -[4858.46 --> 4858.50] Amen. -[4859.00 --> 4859.34] Amen. -[4859.34 --> 4859.66] Amen. -[4861.96 --> 4862.68] Amen. -[4862.68 --> 4864.82] Amen. -[4872.76 --> 4873.72] Amen. -[4873.72 --> 4874.32] Amen. -[4874.34 --> 4876.30] Amen. -[4876.30 --> 4876.88] Amen. -[4876.88 --> 4877.14] Amen. -[4877.80 --> 4878.64] Amen. -[4878.64 --> 4892.14] Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him -[4892.14 --> 4899.40] How I've moved Him all and all -[4899.40 --> 4907.22] Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus -[4907.22 --> 4914.98] Hopeful grace to trust Him all -[4914.98 --> 4923.46] It is so sweet to trust in Jesus -[4923.46 --> 4931.20] Just to take Him at His word -[4931.20 --> 4938.96] Just to rest upon His fullness -[4938.96 --> 4944.96] Just to know the Savior -[4944.96 --> 4953.92] Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him -[4953.92 --> 4960.72] How I've moved Him all and all -[4960.72 --> 4968.48] Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus -[4968.48 --> 4976.48] Hopeful grace to trust Him all -[4976.48 --> 4986.24] Oh, how sweet to trust in Jesus -[4986.24 --> 4994.24] Just to trust His cleansing blood -[4994.24 --> 5002.00] Just in sin, the faith to conjure -[5002.00 --> 5009.76] Before He'll be cleansing blood -[5009.76 --> 5017.52] Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him -[5017.52 --> 5023.52] How I trust Him all and all -[5023.52 --> 5031.28] Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus -[5031.28 --> 5041.04] Oh, how I trust Him all -[5041.04 --> 5048.80] Just in sin, the faith to trust in Jesus -[5048.80 --> 5056.44] Just from sin and self to cease -[5056.44 --> 5062.80] Just from Jesus in the day -[5062.80 --> 5072.56] Life and rest and joy and peace -[5072.56 --> 5076.56] Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him -[5076.56 --> 5080.56] How I trust Him all and all -[5080.56 --> 5086.32] I'm so glad I've learned to trust in Jesus -[5086.32 --> 5091.32] Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus -[5091.32 --> 5093.06] Oh, how I trust Him all and all -[5093.06 --> 5093.46] Precious Jesus, I found to trust in Jesus -[5093.46 --> 5095.90] Precious Jesus, In your prayer -[5095.90 --> 5096.68] I'm so glad I've learned to trust in Jesus -[5096.68 --> 5101.32] Precious Jesus, Jesus, in your prayer -[5101.36 --> 5111.52] I'm so glad I've learned to trust in Jesus -[5111.52 --> 5119.58] Precious Jesus, in your prayer -[5119.58 --> 5134.28] And I know that Thou art with me, will be with me to the end. -[5134.28 --> 5149.46] Jesus, Jesus, now I trust Him, now I trust Him, before and all. -[5149.58 --> 5166.40] Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus, look for praise to trust Him all. -[5170.26 --> 5175.34] In a moment we're going to sing a closing song, and before that I'm going to read the priestly blessing in number 6. -[5175.34 --> 5180.32] but I just have been asked and think it's wise to remind all of you that we have a congregational meeting -[5180.32 --> 5181.78] following those two events. -[5181.92 --> 5184.18] And so please do, if you're a member here, stick around. -[5184.36 --> 5186.36] If you're not a member here, you're welcome to stick around too. -[5186.42 --> 5187.36] This is not a closed meeting. -[5187.70 --> 5188.48] Learn how we tick. -[5188.78 --> 5189.60] Do all that sorts of things. -[5189.70 --> 5193.44] If you do need to go, there is enough time for you to sneak out into foyer, grab a coffee. -[5193.50 --> 5194.08] That'll be served. -[5194.40 --> 5197.70] And then our meeting, which hopefully is timed in minutes, not hours, -[5198.22 --> 5200.14] we can have coffee as well afterwards. -[5200.24 --> 5200.78] It should be quick. -[5200.82 --> 5201.68] It will not be hours. -[5201.92 --> 5205.32] So, yeah, join us for that or go have coffee. -[5206.26 --> 5210.48] But right now, please receive this priestly blessing found in Numbers 6. -[5211.58 --> 5213.60] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[5214.20 --> 5217.68] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[5218.28 --> 5223.00] The Lord turn his face toward you and give you his peace. -[5223.46 --> 5224.56] And all God's people said. -[5235.34 --> 5249.54] May the peace of God, our heavenly Father, and the grace of Christ, the risen Son, -[5249.54 --> 5265.26] And the fellowship of God, our heavenly Father, and the grace of Christ, the risen Son, -[5265.26 --> 5285.96] And the fellowship of God, our heavenly Father, and the grace of God, and the grace of God. -[5285.96 --> 5305.96] From the just of love to the hearts of God, we declare the King of the Lamb was slain, Christ eternal, the King, the King. -[5305.96 --> 5335.94] In this peace which passes understanding, and this grace which makes us what we are, and this fellowship of His communion, make us one in spirit and in heart. -[5335.96 --> 5362.96] And to Him He prays for His glory and strength, from the just of love to the hearts of God, we declare the King of the Lamb on the Lamb was slain, Christ eternal, the King, the King. -[5362.96 --> 5392.96] And to Him He prays for His glorious reign, from the just of love to the heights of earth, we declare the name of the Lamb once slain, -[5392.96 --> 5394.96] the King. -[5394.96 --> 5424.94] And to Him He prays for His glory and strength, from the just of love to the Christ of God, we declare the King of the Lamb, who we are, and this is the Lord of the Lamb, and this is the Lord of the Lamb. -[5424.96 --> 5430.46] You're welcome to do so. The rest of our members, we appreciate if you would stick around. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 5, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 5, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 8c7f659875d78e75ff9afd6f7c59f253fa31c8f8..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 5, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,155 +0,0 @@ -• Believing in God's power to perform miracles -• Trusting in God's promises and declarations -• Gathering together as a community to experience the presence of God -• Calling heaven down and declaring His kingdom alive -• Singing, shouting, and dancing in celebration of God's healing power -• Declaring that nothing can stop God's kingdom from advancing -• Upcoming sermon series on holy habits and spiritual disciplines -• Distribution of resources for devotion and faith practice -• Connection opportunities for visitors and new attendees -• Youth Coffee event at Alchemist House -• Pollock event for young adults -• Lost and found table with donations to follow if not claimed -• Announcing a prayer night on Wednesday evening to address spiritual struggles and challenges in the church -• Mention of a personal experience with a spiritual attack or challenge that requires prayer -• Invitation for attendees to join the prayer night without sharing specific details or names -• Discussion of Pentecost and its significance in changing the church and allowing individuals to believe and worship -• Call to worship from Acts 1, chapter 4-5, emphasizing waiting for the gift of the Holy Spirit -• Singing hymns and praise songs related to waiting on the Lord and God's strength and endurance -• Praise and worship to God -• God's attributes: everlasting, loving, life-giving, light in darkness, hope-restoring -• Holy Spirit's presence and power -• Prayer for deepened love, boldness, and gratitude -• Worship songs sung to the Holy Spirit -• Introduction to prayer and worship -• Song: "Spirit of the Living God" -• Explanation of offerings and ministries (C10, night shift) -• Reminder of next week's offering for night shift ministries -• Song: "No Place I'd Rather Be" by Matt Redman -• Children's blessing and children's time -• Discussion about favorite animals -• Discussion about lions, including facts and characteristics -• Question of whether lions would make good pets -• Introduction to a story about someone sleeping with lions -• Transition to church family prayer led by Ken, an elder at Emanuel Christian Form Church -• Pentecost Sunday celebration and preparation for the Lord's Supper -• Prayers for an end to suffering and pain caused by wars and senseless shootings -• Comfort and healing for those grieving the loss of loved ones -• Prayers for specific families, including the Rezabos family and Pastor John Van Hemert's congregation -• Prayers for the church denomination and synod meetings starting on Friday -• Thankfulness for leadership and volunteers within the church -• Encouragement to grow God's kingdom through the church -• Preparing hearts for communion next week -• Asking God to speak to them through Pastor Chris' words -• The work of the Spirit in shaping and transforming lives, using Acts 2 as an example -• The early Christian church's devotion to teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer (Acts 2) -• The motivation for encouraging holy habits, using Philippians 2:12-13 as a foundation -• The concept of faith and how it is experienced and developed in one's life -• The speaker's personal experiences with conversations about faith across different age groups and demographics -• Faith as a concept in the midst of doubt and trial -• The complexity of understanding faith due to varying contexts and circumstances -• Multiple meanings of the word "faith" in English and in the Bible -• Different uses of faith, including trust, confidence, loyalty, and intentionality -• Distinctions between faith and belief, and the nuances of these terms in different contexts -• Discussion of saving faith and ordinary faith -• Contrasting characteristics of saving faith -• Defining faith: feeling, action, knowledge, or belief -• Biblical definition of faith in Hebrews 11:1 -• Faith as being sure of hope and certain of the unseen -• Understanding faith as a decision to trust in the face of uncertainty -• Examining the heroes of faith listed in Hebrews 11 -• Faith as a commitment and decision to think and be in a particular direction -• Heidelberg Catechism as a summary statement of faith used by Reformed churches -• True faith as a combination of knowledge, trust, and obedience to God's revelation in scripture -• Faith as comprehensive term encompassing knowledge, trust, hope, and commitment -• Definition of faith from the Catechism and Ephesians 2 -• The Holy Spirit creates faith in individuals through the Gospel -• Faith is not a passive state, but an active response to God's gift -• Faith is always doing something right, even in difficult situations -• Faith is explicitly recognized as a gift from God, not something humans achieve through work or effort -• The growth and development of faith -• True faith vs. non-action or passivity -• Faith as a capacity, knowledge, practice, commitment, decision, and way of living -• Understanding and defining faith through biblical confessions -• Resting in God's work when faith is at work within -• The capacity to believe in something beyond empirical verification -• The unifying power of faith in uniting us with Christ as God -• The role of the Holy Spirit in enlivening and saving us through grace -• The distinction between faith as a function or capacity, and faith as an object of belief -• The development of faith as a capacity to be grown and developed over time -• Analogy of faith as a muscle -• Need to exercise and stretch faith beyond current capabilities -• Stretching can be painful but leads to growth and strengthening -• Faith must be flexed regularly to maintain strength and avoid stagnation -• Exercise and challenge are necessary for spiritual development -• Tiny tears occur in muscles -• Muscles begin to separate and swell as you rest and recover -• Proper nutrition is essential for muscle growth and recovery -• Exercise program builds faith capacity and stretches individual beyond their limits -• Tears and failures can be opportunities for spiritual growth and increased recognition of God's power -• The speaker discusses the idea that dependence on God increases as one's spiritual needs and brokenness grow. -• The importance of surrendering to God in times of need and weakness is highlighted. -• A comparison is made between physical exercise and spiritual growth, emphasizing the need for consistent effort and not plateauing. -• The concept of faith as a muscle that requires exercise and nurturing is introduced. -• The speaker emphasizes the importance of actively seeking God and growing one's capacity for faith through intentional actions. -• Comparison of physical health and faith: using the analogy of muscles, unused faith will atrophy. -• Effects of neglecting faith: becoming weak in one's faith, defining experience of faith on weak muscles, being dead inside or hiding faith. -• The need for holy habits: getting involved in practices that grow faith, introducing new spiritual disciplines. -• Resource provided: a book with sermon notes, journaling space, and activities for discussion and practice. -• Focus of the series: four key practices connected to the early church's description in Acts 2: - + Bible reading - + Prayer and worship together - + Rest - + Possibly other topics not explicitly listed. -• Discussing spiritual disciplines of rest -• Practicing rest in community -• Giving to Jesus' mission through finances and service -• Using time for kingdom purposes -• Leading holy habits discussions with Pastor Kevin and Josh -• Inviting community groups to dig into holy habits together -• Philippians 2:12-13 on working out salvation with fear and trembling -• The nature of Jesus and his relationship to God -• The promise of God's work in believers' lives -• Christian spirituality beginning, depending, and ending in God -• The life of spiritual discipline initiated and sustained by God -• The path to spiritual growth is not self-reformation but a journey with God -• The interplay between what we love and how we use our time, resources, and skills -• The importance of habits and cultural practices in shaping who we are -• The need for the transformative power of the Spirit to re-center us in Christ through worship and holy habits -• The concept of counter-formative practices as a means of resisting deformative rituals and cultivating faithfulness -• The importance of spiritual disciplines as missional rhythms of resistance that shape individuals and communities in the love of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit -• The life of a disciple is marked by constant movement between inward and outward aspects -• Spiritual disciplines/holy habits have both an inward personal relationship with God and an outward aspect affecting the community/neighbor -• Focusing solely on individual spiritual practices can lead to isolation from others and neglect of their impact on the world -• Good holy habits always include both inward and outward aspects, encouraging individuals to think beyond themselves and consider the effect on those around them -• Sharing stories of personal transformation can fuel transformation in others -• Commit to sharing stories of faith at work in the world -• Make a plan with others to practice the series together -• Hold each other accountable in that plan -• Start in prayer and ask for God's transformation and renewal -• Pray for the power of the spirit to be at work in them -• Prayer for neighbors and communities -• Request to deepen and strengthen relationship with God -• Commitment to working out salvation in worship and daily habits -• Trust in God's guidance and growth -• Invitation to Holy Spirit to renew life and make whole -• Prayer for faith, passion, and purity -• The speaker reflects on the importance of gentleness in their path towards peace and turning their strivings into words of grace. -• They express a desire to show Christ in all they do, and to reveal God's power and presence on earth through prayer. -• The speaker asks for guidance on the road of sacrifice, seeking unity with others and clarity of purpose. -• They pray that their prayers will arise as a fragrance, leading them towards a deeper understanding and connection with God. -• Worship service and invitations to attend -• Coffee and fellowship at church -• Invitation to help with coffee service next week -• Request for volunteers to help with cleanup after worship service -• Second invitation to join a prayer meeting on Wednesday night -• Urgency and expectation in praying to God -• God's presence and guidance in various circumstances -• Not being afraid, but receiving God's blessing -• Following God's lead through different situations -• Living in peace and serving the Lord -• Praise and worship of God, including a passage about Christ's reign and resurrection -• Slain Lamb's significance -• Christ's rule over the world -• Earth's response to Christ's reign -• Titles attributed to Christ: King of all kings and Lord of lords/lords/kings \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 5, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 5, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 67b755b7410cef16521e8d946b406d4553f08e4d..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 5, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3059 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.48] We -[14.26 --> 16.30] We -[16.30 --> 28.22] We -[28.22 --> 32.38] final -[32.38 --> 36.28] We'll be immovable. -[37.12 --> 39.32] Break the unbreakable. -[40.18 --> 41.82] God, we believe. -[42.38 --> 45.68] God, we believe for it. -[46.12 --> 48.06] From the impossible. -[49.18 --> 51.16] We'll see a miracle. -[52.30 --> 53.88] God, we believe. -[55.26 --> 58.14] God, we believe for it. -[58.14 --> 59.50] God, we believe. -[60.20 --> 61.38] Yes, we do. -[61.38 --> 67.38] Believe for it -[67.38 --> 80.66] You said it, I believe it -[80.66 --> 86.44] You said it, it is done -[86.44 --> 92.88] You said it, I believe it -[92.88 --> 98.44] You said it, it is done -[98.44 --> 105.44] You said it, and I believe it -[105.44 --> 111.44] You said it, it is done -[111.44 --> 118.20] Just because you said it, I can trust you with it -[118.20 --> 121.88] You said it, it is done -[121.88 --> 125.88] You said it, it is done -[125.88 --> 128.88] You said it, it is done -[128.88 --> 132.88] You said it, it is done -[132.88 --> 135.88] It is done -[135.88 --> 138.88] Move the immovable -[138.88 --> 141.88] Break the unbreakable -[141.88 --> 144.88] God, we believe -[144.88 --> 147.88] God, we believe for it -[147.88 --> 150.88] From the impossible -[150.88 --> 153.88] We'll see a miracle -[153.88 --> 156.88] God, we believe -[156.88 --> 162.88] God, we believe for it -[162.88 --> 165.88] Yes, Lord -[165.88 --> 174.88] God, we believe for it -[174.88 --> 185.38] You said it, it is done -[185.38 --> 196.32] I believe something happens when you gather -[196.32 --> 201.52] There's something happens when we gather -[201.52 --> 206.86] When hearts in line with our hearts -[206.86 --> 214.50] We feel the moving spirit to come alive -[214.50 --> 223.12] There's a longing when we gather -[223.12 --> 228.42] To see your glory touch the ear -[228.42 --> 236.42] We believe that it can happen right now -[240.42 --> 246.82] Oh, we're calling heaven down -[246.82 --> 252.00] Oh, until it's all around -[252.00 --> 254.34] His kingdom is alive -[254.34 --> 257.38] It's riding in with love -[257.38 --> 263.30] Oh, nothing can stop it now -[263.30 --> 272.46] We want to see your coming power -[272.46 --> 277.84] Declaring healing in your name -[277.84 --> 283.38] You love to show up and deliver -[283.38 --> 285.80] Every time -[285.80 --> 286.80] Every time -[286.80 --> 295.92] Oh, we're calling heaven down -[295.92 --> 301.30] Oh, until it's all around -[301.30 --> 303.30] His kingdom is alive -[303.30 --> 306.30] It's riding in with love -[306.30 --> 312.10] Oh, nothing can stop it now -[312.10 --> 317.30] Oh, we're calling heaven down -[317.30 --> 320.76] Oh, until it's all around -[320.76 --> 323.10] Until it's all around -[323.10 --> 325.10] His kingdom is alive -[325.10 --> 328.14] It's riding in with love -[328.14 --> 335.10] Oh, nothing can stop it now -[335.10 --> 340.10] Oh, nothing can stop it -[340.10 --> 346.48] We're going to sing -[346.48 --> 347.48] We're going to sing -[347.48 --> 349.48] We're going to shout -[349.48 --> 352.48] We're going to dance -[352.48 --> 355.44] Because His kingdom is here and now -[355.44 --> 356.44] Oh, we're going to sing -[356.44 --> 357.78] Yes, we are -[357.78 --> 358.44] We're going to sing -[358.44 --> 359.78] Yes, we are -[359.78 --> 362.24] We're going to sing -[362.24 --> 364.30] Oh, we're going to sing -[364.30 --> 365.04] Oh, we're going to sing -[365.04 --> 366.08] Yes, we are -[366.08 --> 366.64] Yes, we are -[366.64 --> 367.96] We're going to sing -[367.96 --> 368.08] Yes, we are -[368.08 --> 370.56] Yes, we are -[370.56 --> 371.64] Yes, we are -[371.64 --> 372.22] We're going to sing -[372.22 --> 372.76] Yes, we are -[372.76 --> 375.16] Oh, we're going to sing -[375.16 --> 376.16] Yes, we are -[376.16 --> 377.32] Yes, we are -[377.32 --> 378.36] Oh, we're going to sing -[378.36 --> 380.50] Yes, we are -[380.50 --> 381.30] Yes, we are -[381.30 --> 382.70] We're going to sing -[382.70 --> 385.02] We're going to sing -[385.02 --> 385.96] We're going to sing -[385.96 --> 389.76] Kingdom is healing now. -[390.34 --> 392.56] Yeah, it's healing now. -[394.08 --> 399.44] Oh, we're calling heaven down. -[399.44 --> 404.70] Oh, until it's all around. -[404.80 --> 406.44] His kingdom is alive. -[407.44 --> 409.44] It's riding in with love. -[410.48 --> 415.78] Oh, nothing can stop it now. -[415.96 --> 421.38] Oh, we're calling heaven down. -[421.46 --> 426.48] Oh, until it's all around. -[426.48 --> 428.86] His kingdom is alive. -[429.18 --> 431.86] It's riding in with love. -[432.38 --> 437.74] Oh, nothing can stop it. -[438.02 --> 439.40] We're gonna sing. -[439.46 --> 440.54] We're gonna shout. -[440.80 --> 442.12] We're gonna shout. -[442.14 --> 443.56] We're gonna dance. -[443.56 --> 444.90] We're gonna dance. -[444.90 --> 448.74] Cause this kingdom is healing now. -[448.82 --> 450.32] We're gonna pray. -[451.40 --> 453.46] We might get lost. -[454.20 --> 455.42] But we don't care. -[455.42 --> 459.72] Cause this kingdom is healing now. -[459.72 --> 465.04] Oh, we're calling heaven down. -[465.04 --> 470.16] Oh, until it's all around. -[470.26 --> 472.48] His kingdom is alive. -[472.48 --> 473.70] It's riding in with love. -[473.70 --> 475.50] It's riding in with love. -[475.50 --> 482.86] Oh, nothing can stop it now. -[482.86 --> 485.94] Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. -[486.10 --> 487.24] Yeah, yeah, yeah. -[487.24 --> 487.70] All right. -[487.70 --> 487.84] Hell yeah, yeah. -[487.84 --> 488.10] Oh, 2003. -[488.10 --> 490.48] Oh, Pepper, who's going to help me and keep me? -[490.48 --> 492.96] Oh, fists andящie-meuble. -[492.96 --> 493.46] Oh, пап,どう is ball of a bird? -[493.46 --> 495.04] Yeah, ooh,Nothing can stop it now. -[495.04 --> 499.86] Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. -[499.86 --> 500.58] Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. -[500.58 --> 501.30] Yeah, yeah, yeah. -[501.30 --> 501.90] Hallelujah! -[501.90 --> 524.56] Good morning, everyone. -[525.72 --> 527.86] Welcome to church. -[527.86 --> 533.76] We are really excited once again this week to gather together to worship our God. -[533.86 --> 537.86] If you're joining us online, we're grateful that you are here with us as well. -[538.50 --> 542.84] For those of you who are here present, when you came in, you found one of these on your -[542.84 --> 544.80] seats or on the seat beside you. -[545.28 --> 552.56] Today we are beginning a sermon series through the month of June on different holy habits -[552.56 --> 553.68] and spiritual disciplines. -[553.68 --> 561.32] And so we are providing this for you to work alongside in devotion and in a life of faith -[561.32 --> 566.60] together and to jot notes, to get some ideas, connect you to resources and the like. -[567.04 --> 571.14] If you weren't able to get one, grab me after the service. -[571.32 --> 571.86] We have more. -[572.06 --> 575.94] We have a cart full yet to give out, but we have plenty there. -[576.30 --> 580.58] And we will use these over the course of the next month together. -[580.58 --> 585.46] As well, if you're visiting with us this morning, we would love to connect with you. -[586.00 --> 590.24] And so there are these cards available on the back table there as well. -[590.34 --> 592.08] There's a version online. -[592.24 --> 594.88] You can scan the QR code and connect with us in that way. -[595.30 --> 601.40] We'd love to connect with you and see how we can bless you and serve you in our church -[601.40 --> 601.70] family. -[601.70 --> 607.38] If you are visiting, you don't know who I am, but my name is Chris and I'm one of the -[607.38 --> 611.14] pastors here and it's my privilege to lead in worship this morning. -[611.50 --> 612.98] We have a couple other announcements. -[613.14 --> 615.88] I'm going to get Josh to come up as he makes an announcement. -[616.10 --> 622.68] And also there is a reminder that Youth Coffee is happening at the Alchemist House. -[623.28 --> 624.90] And so Rob and Brenda, are you around? -[625.02 --> 626.84] Can you just raise your hand? -[626.92 --> 627.32] Where are you? -[627.48 --> 628.36] Rob, Brenda, no? -[629.58 --> 630.28] They're both gone. -[630.28 --> 631.48] Okay, there you go. -[631.86 --> 632.68] You can talk to Jared. -[632.76 --> 633.76] He'll tell you where it is. -[634.56 --> 635.06] He knows. -[635.50 --> 636.80] I did see Brenda earlier. -[638.54 --> 639.60] Okay, all right. -[639.94 --> 640.80] Oh, she's ignoring me. -[640.86 --> 641.34] I see her now. -[641.80 --> 642.00] Good. -[642.42 --> 644.70] If you have questions about where that is, you can grab them. -[644.86 --> 650.42] And that's available for anyone in the youth age, so high school age kids, go on out and -[650.42 --> 653.56] have coffee and lunch together there. -[654.00 --> 654.48] Josh, go ahead. -[655.30 --> 657.56] Hey, this is a young adults announcement. -[657.56 --> 658.94] We're having the Pollock tonight. -[658.94 --> 664.50] We're having it here at the church, though there might be a location change. -[664.82 --> 666.68] So it will be in the group chat. -[666.80 --> 670.34] If you're not a part of the group chat, I'm using this as a way to get in contact with -[670.34 --> 670.70] you all. -[670.94 --> 676.36] So come and contact me here after or through text and I'll get you connected. -[677.64 --> 678.38] Yeah, it's going to be great. -[678.46 --> 678.92] Bring a food. -[679.34 --> 679.80] Bring friends. -[680.08 --> 680.66] It's going to be awesome. -[680.66 --> 682.56] 7 p.m. -[682.56 --> 692.28] Also, you may have noticed on your way in, there's a lost and found table at the back -[692.28 --> 694.34] there that is really full of stuff. -[695.02 --> 699.56] I don't know if it's stuff from us here or if it's from the school that rents from throughout -[699.56 --> 699.86] the week. -[699.96 --> 702.00] But have a look if you're missing something. -[702.48 --> 704.36] We're going to keep it there for this week and next. -[704.66 --> 707.48] And if it's not emptied by the end of next week, we're going to donate it. -[708.28 --> 712.02] So at the end of next week, if you want to go and grab something before it gets donated, -[712.60 --> 713.52] you could do that too. -[713.84 --> 715.82] But that's what's going to happen there. -[716.14 --> 720.06] I know that there's a beautiful shirt in there that someone in my family has an eye on. -[720.30 --> 721.44] So just saying. -[721.44 --> 729.76] Before we begin, I did want to make one announcement about a prayer night that we're going to do -[729.76 --> 732.20] this week on Wednesday. -[734.78 --> 742.74] I don't know how many of you are aware or have been experiencing, but this week it really -[742.74 --> 743.14] hit me. -[743.86 --> 750.90] There's a lot happening in our lives and in our church, both that is really hard and -[750.90 --> 754.50] struggling and that we need prayer in. -[754.60 --> 760.40] And what I'm confident of is that if this isn't a spiritual attack on us as a church, -[760.48 --> 766.28] and it may be, it does have an effect on our spiritual selves and our relationships to God. -[766.82 --> 768.88] And so when that happens, the church needs to pray. -[770.16 --> 776.08] And so on Wednesday night, we're going to gather together informally and we're going to pray -[776.08 --> 779.36] through a bunch of different themes, circumstances, and situations. -[779.36 --> 783.94] Now, we're going to do that without names. -[784.30 --> 787.24] And so if you are someone who's going through something and you have talked to me in the -[787.24 --> 789.80] past, know that we're not airing all of that out. -[789.92 --> 793.66] But there are things that I believe we need to pray for. -[794.30 --> 798.02] And so I want to invite you to gather on Wednesday night. -[798.08 --> 799.30] I think it says 7, right? -[799.52 --> 800.24] 7 p.m. -[800.24 --> 807.66] Here at the church with as many people as come and we will pray as informally and boldly and -[807.66 --> 812.84] quietly and in groups and individually and silently as we can. -[813.80 --> 816.58] But we're going to take at least an hour and pray together. -[816.78 --> 824.18] So I encourage you strongly join us on Wednesday night for that time together. -[824.18 --> 830.14] As well, as you look at the stage, you might realize that something is on fire and that's -[830.14 --> 831.72] because today is Pentecost. -[832.60 --> 838.36] And as we worship our God today, we remember that today Pentecost changed the church. -[839.44 --> 841.48] Were it not for Pentecost, you would not be here. -[843.12 --> 847.52] Were it not for Pentecost, you would not profess to believe or struggle in belief. -[847.52 --> 850.78] You would not be asking the kinds of questions that the Spirit puts on your heart. -[851.06 --> 855.12] And so we are here today because of Pentecost. -[855.64 --> 860.22] And so let's worship in the Spirit and in truth our good God. -[860.66 --> 861.28] Would you stand? -[861.78 --> 867.74] We could be greeted by God, welcomed into his presence, and we can worship him. -[870.12 --> 876.28] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, -[876.28 --> 880.12] and from the Holy Spirit who comes at Pentecost. -[880.82 --> 884.26] Let us worship our God. -[884.96 --> 885.26] Amen. -[889.72 --> 893.12] Our call to worship today comes from Acts 1, 4-5. -[894.40 --> 900.02] On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command. -[900.02 --> 906.22] Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift of my Father promised. -[906.28 --> 908.80] which you have heard me speak about. -[909.50 --> 916.44] For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit. -[917.38 --> 921.20] Let's worship our God, who so freely gives us his Spirit. -[921.20 --> 924.60] Strength who rises, we wait upon the Lord, we will wait upon the Lord. -[924.60 --> 925.54] If the Lord is good, we will lift him up and be with God. -[925.54 --> 927.10] Help us understand. -[927.10 --> 927.48] Amen. -[927.48 --> 928.66] For all you will be fired by God, who they are going tosex Loras, -[928.66 --> 943.38] and ourコ -[943.40 --> 945.50] strength remembers Him as We Ugh -[945.50 --> 948.38] Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord. -[948.46 --> 950.62] We will wait upon the Lord. -[950.70 --> 952.96] We will wait upon the Lord. -[954.18 --> 957.50] Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord. -[957.56 --> 959.82] We will wait upon the Lord. -[959.90 --> 962.18] We will wait upon the Lord. -[962.18 --> 968.98] How come you reign forever? -[970.12 --> 974.64] Our hope, our strong delay. -[975.50 --> 977.06] Ever. -[979.54 --> 984.24] You are the everlasting God. -[984.88 --> 988.82] The everlasting God. -[988.82 --> 991.98] You do not faint. -[992.18 --> 996.34] You won't grow weary. -[997.70 --> 1002.38] You're the defender of the weak. -[1002.38 --> 1006.76] You comfort doors in me. -[1007.76 --> 1014.84] You lift us upon wings like eagles. -[1014.84 --> 1019.08] Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord. -[1019.14 --> 1021.28] We will wait upon the Lord. -[1021.34 --> 1023.58] We will wait upon the Lord. -[1023.58 --> 1028.28] We will wait upon the Lord. -[1028.28 --> 1030.36] We will wait upon the Lord. -[1030.36 --> 1032.62] We will wait upon the Lord. -[1032.70 --> 1037.20] How come you reign forever? -[1037.20 --> 1041.98] You are the everlasting God. -[1041.98 --> 1054.04] You are the everlasting God. -[1054.04 --> 1061.04] You do not faint. -[1061.04 --> 1066.04] You won't grow weary. -[1066.04 --> 1071.82] You are the defender of the weak. -[1071.82 --> 1076.82] You are the everlasting God. -[1076.82 --> 1081.20] You are the everlasting God. -[1081.20 --> 1085.08] My King of us. -[1085.08 --> 1089.94] You are the everlasting God. -[1089.94 --> 1090.94] You do not faint. -[1090.94 --> 1091.94] You are the everlasting God. -[1091.94 --> 1096.94] You do not faint. -[1096.94 --> 1101.94] You won't grow weary. -[1101.94 --> 1107.32] You are the defender of the weak. -[1107.32 --> 1109.32] You are the everlasting God. -[1109.32 --> 1113.32] You are the everlasting God. -[1113.32 --> 1118.32] You will lift us upon wings like eagles. -[1118.32 --> 1124.32] You are the everlasting God. -[1124.32 --> 1154.30] Thank you. -[1154.32 --> 1163.36] You give life, you are love, you bring light to the darkness. -[1163.36 --> 1172.42] You give hope, you restore every heart that is broken. -[1175.30 --> 1179.48] And great are you, Lord. -[1179.48 --> 1188.52] It's your breath in our lungs, so we pour out our praise. -[1188.52 --> 1194.52] We pour out our praise, it's your breath in our lungs. -[1194.68 --> 1199.30] So we pour out our praise to you only. -[1199.30 --> 1212.42] You give life, you are love. -[1212.68 --> 1216.30] You bring light to the darkness. -[1216.30 --> 1225.62] You give hope, you restore every heart that is broken. -[1225.62 --> 1234.66] You give life, you are love. -[1234.66 --> 1241.22] It's your breath in our lungs, so we pour out our praise. -[1241.46 --> 1243.20] We pour out our praise. -[1243.26 --> 1251.58] It's your breath in our lungs, so we pour out our praise to you only. -[1251.58 --> 1258.82] It's your breath in our lungs, so we pour out our praise. -[1258.82 --> 1260.78] We pour out our praise. -[1260.78 --> 1269.78] It's your breath in our lungs, so we pour out our praise to you only. -[1269.78 --> 1284.78] We pour out our praise to you only. -[1284.78 --> 1286.78] Our hearts and our lungs, so we pour out our praise. -[1286.78 --> 1290.80] And all the earth will shout your praise. -[1290.80 --> 1295.80] Our hearts will cry, these bones will sing, -[1296.04 --> 1302.86] Great are you, Lord. -[1302.86 --> 1308.82] And all the earth will shout your praise. -[1308.82 --> 1313.04] Our hearts will cry, these bones will sing. -[1313.04 --> 1319.68] Great are you, Lord. -[1321.26 --> 1326.00] And all the earth will shout your praise. -[1326.34 --> 1330.52] Our hearts will cry, these bones will sing. -[1331.06 --> 1337.20] Great are you, Lord. -[1337.20 --> 1342.62] It's your breath in our lives. -[1342.82 --> 1345.60] So we pour out our grace. -[1345.80 --> 1347.58] We pour out our praise. -[1347.68 --> 1351.38] It's your breath in our lives. -[1351.64 --> 1356.02] So we pour out our praise to you, O Lord. -[1356.36 --> 1360.28] It's your breath in our lives. -[1360.56 --> 1363.36] So we pour out our praise. -[1363.64 --> 1365.36] We pour out our praise. -[1365.36 --> 1366.36] It's your breath. -[1367.20 --> 1374.00] In our lungs shall we pour out our praise to you only. -[1374.00 --> 1403.98] In our lungs shall we pour out our praise to you only. -[1404.00 --> 1408.88] The blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. -[1410.18 --> 1416.60] They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. -[1417.62 --> 1424.24] All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. -[1425.36 --> 1426.26] Let's bow our heads. -[1427.88 --> 1433.74] Father, we confess how we need the presence of your Spirit in our lives. -[1434.00 --> 1442.60] Father, we will open the eyes of our heart to know the reality of your indwelling and to see you more clearly. -[1444.32 --> 1446.52] Deepen our love for you. -[1446.52 --> 1453.24] Fill us with your power to follow you and to show your love to those around us. -[1453.82 --> 1457.26] Give us boldness to stand for you in the culture we live in. -[1458.16 --> 1463.64] And as we join in heaven's worship, help us to fully express our gratitude to you. -[1464.18 --> 1464.40] Amen. -[1464.40 --> 1471.38] Why don't we stand as we sing these last two songs. -[1471.38 --> 1472.38] груsting the praise of you and to drip on our hearts. -[1472.38 --> 1473.58] We sing them these last two songs. -[1474.76 --> 1477.30] Let's sing them these -[1477.70 --> 1494.70] nimschines Sunset -[1494.70 --> 1511.26] Holy Spirit, ring down, ring down -[1511.26 --> 1517.18] O comforter and friend -[1517.18 --> 1523.50] How we need your touch again -[1523.50 --> 1536.42] Holy Spirit, ring down, ring down -[1536.42 --> 1543.36] Let your power fall, let your voice be heard -[1543.36 --> 1549.78] Come and change our hearts as we stand on your word -[1549.78 --> 1562.70] Holy Spirit, ring down, ring down -[1562.70 --> 1575.62] Holy Spirit, ring down, ring down -[1575.62 --> 1580.62] O comforter and friend -[1580.62 --> 1585.62] How we need your touch again -[1585.62 --> 1588.54] Holy Spirit, ring down, ring down -[1588.54 --> 1601.46] Let your power fall, let your voice be heard -[1601.46 --> 1604.46] Let your voice be heard -[1604.46 --> 1607.46] Come and change our hearts as we stand on your word -[1607.46 --> 1620.38] Holy Spirit, ring down -[1620.38 --> 1630.30] No eye has seen, no ear has heard -[1630.30 --> 1635.30] No mind can know what God has in store -[1635.30 --> 1642.36] So open up heaven, open and wide -[1642.36 --> 1649.36] Over your church and over our lives -[1649.36 --> 1655.28] Holy Spirit, ring down, ring down -[1655.28 --> 1667.28] Ring down, oh comforter and friend -[1667.28 --> 1669.28] How we need your touch again -[1669.28 --> 1673.28] How we need your touch again -[1673.28 --> 1680.20] Holy Spirit, ring down, ring down -[1680.20 --> 1685.20] Ring down, let your power fall -[1685.20 --> 1692.12] Let your power fall, let your voice be heard -[1692.12 --> 1699.12] Come and change our hearts as we stand on your word -[1699.12 --> 1701.12] Holy Spirit, ring down -[1701.12 --> 1706.12] Holy Spirit, ring down -[1706.12 --> 1710.12] Holy Spirit, ring down -[1710.12 --> 1722.12] We'll sing this next song as a prayer as we go into our service -[1722.12 --> 1737.12] Spirit of the living God -[1737.12 --> 1743.12] Fall afresh on me -[1743.12 --> 1750.12] Spirit of the living God -[1750.12 --> 1755.12] Fall afresh on me -[1755.12 --> 1763.12] Melt me, mold me -[1763.12 --> 1770.12] Fill me, use me -[1770.12 --> 1775.12] Spirit of the living God -[1775.12 --> 1777.12] Spirit of the living God -[1777.12 --> 1782.12] Fall afresh on me -[1782.12 --> 1786.12] Spirit of the living God -[1786.12 --> 1790.12] Spirit of the living God -[1790.12 --> 1796.12] Move among us all -[1796.12 --> 1802.12] Make us fall in heart and mind -[1802.12 --> 1805.12] Make us fall in love -[1805.12 --> 1809.12] Make us fall in love -[1809.12 --> 1812.12] Humble, caring, selfless sharing -[1812.12 --> 1817.12] Humble, caring, selfless sharing -[1817.12 --> 1828.12] Spirit of the living God -[1828.12 --> 1830.12] Fill our lives with love -[1830.12 --> 1836.12] You may have a seat -[1836.12 --> 1853.12] Is there a deacon coming up for the offering announcement? -[1853.12 --> 1856.12] This -[1856.12 --> 1863.12] Is the offering for night shift? -[1863.12 --> 1868.12] Night shift? -[1868.12 --> 1872.12] Night shift is a ministry that -[1872.12 --> 1875.12] Oh, it's C10 -[1875.12 --> 1876.12] Then I don't know -[1876.12 --> 1879.12] C10 -[1879.12 --> 1882.12] The offerings today are for the church budget -[1882.12 --> 1885.12] And then the second one is for C10 -[1885.12 --> 1889.12] C10 is the ministry organization that my sister Jodi and her husband Uriel -[1889.12 --> 1893.12] Are associated with in Mexico -[1893.12 --> 1895.12] And so the money is used -[1895.12 --> 1898.12] Go to help their ministry -[1898.12 --> 1900.12] Please give generously -[1900.12 --> 1904.12] Next week's offering is for night shift ministries -[1904.12 --> 1906.12] To be continued -[1906.12 --> 1907.12] To be continued -[1907.12 --> 1908.12] To be continued -[1908.12 --> 1909.12] To be continued -[1909.12 --> 1911.12] To be continued -[1911.12 --> 1912.12] To be continued -[1912.12 --> 1914.12] To be continued -[1914.12 --> 1916.12] To be continued -[1916.12 --> 1917.12] To be continued -[1917.12 --> 1919.12] To be continued -[1919.12 --> 1921.12] To be continued -[1921.12 --> 1923.12] To be continued -[1923.12 --> 1953.12] -[1953.12 --> 1957.20] No place I'd rather be -[1957.20 --> 1961.48] No place I'd rather be -[1961.48 --> 1965.40] No place I'd rather be -[1965.40 --> 1969.84] Than here in your love, here in your love -[1969.84 --> 1974.08] To set a fire down in my soul -[1974.08 --> 1978.04] That I can't contain, that I can't control -[1978.04 --> 1981.82] I want more of you above -[1981.82 --> 1986.04] I want more of you above -[1986.04 --> 1989.88] To set a fire down in my soul -[1989.88 --> 1993.88] That I can't contain, that I can't control -[1993.88 --> 1997.46] I want more of you above -[1997.46 --> 2001.42] I want more of you above -[2011.82 --> 2019.88] No place I'd rather be -[2019.88 --> 2023.88] No place I'd rather be -[2023.88 --> 2027.88] No place I'd rather be -[2027.88 --> 2031.88] Than here in your love, here in your love -[2031.88 --> 2037.10] To set a fire down in my soul -[2037.10 --> 2041.94] That I can't contain, that I can't control -[2041.94 --> 2045.94] I want more of you above -[2045.94 --> 2050.10] I want more of you above -[2050.10 --> 2052.94] To set a fire down in my soul -[2052.94 --> 2057.16] That I can't contain, that I can't control -[2057.16 --> 2061.38] I want more of you above -[2061.38 --> 2065.60] I want more of you above -[2065.60 --> 2093.58] Good morning -[2093.58 --> 2095.66] Can I have all the kids -[2095.66 --> 2097.44] I think age 3 to grade 4 -[2097.44 --> 2099.68] We'll do a little chat -[2099.68 --> 2101.14] And then we'll have the children's blessing -[2101.14 --> 2107.88] Lots of you guys today -[2107.88 --> 2111.76] Here we are into June, right? -[2111.84 --> 2115.56] We're getting close to the end of the Sunday school time -[2115.56 --> 2116.64] Children's worship time -[2116.64 --> 2122.24] Ooh, summer school -[2122.24 --> 2124.68] Yeah, that could be exciting -[2124.68 --> 2127.34] Hey, have I asked you guys this before? -[2127.72 --> 2130.14] Have I asked you guys what your favorite animal is? -[2130.62 --> 2131.96] I feel like I did ask this -[2131.96 --> 2134.24] Can you guys remind me what some of your favorite animals are? -[2134.78 --> 2136.16] A bunny, good one -[2136.16 --> 2138.28] A kitty, oh nice -[2138.28 --> 2139.12] You're scared -[2139.12 --> 2142.68] A cheetah, good one -[2142.68 --> 2144.84] A red panda -[2144.84 --> 2145.34] Okay -[2145.34 --> 2146.04] We're getting -[2146.04 --> 2148.44] Your dad would agree -[2148.44 --> 2148.76] Yeah -[2148.76 --> 2152.08] Fishies, all the fishies -[2152.08 --> 2153.08] What about you, Zoe? -[2156.02 --> 2156.98] Snow bunnies -[2156.98 --> 2158.04] I didn't know that existed -[2158.04 --> 2162.76] Panthers? -[2163.28 --> 2164.44] You guys have some good ones -[2164.44 --> 2165.22] Well, I'm going to -[2165.22 --> 2165.84] Oh, what's yours? -[2166.64 --> 2167.24] A panda -[2167.24 --> 2168.18] You guys have some good ones -[2168.18 --> 2169.08] I'm going to pull a little -[2169.08 --> 2170.76] One of my favorite animals -[2170.76 --> 2173.94] This wee little toy that I brought here -[2173.94 --> 2175.66] That I've had since I was -[2175.66 --> 2178.64] So, it's a lion -[2178.64 --> 2181.86] Yes, it's one of my favorite animals -[2181.86 --> 2183.62] Do you guys know lots about lions? -[2184.54 --> 2184.78] Yeah? -[2185.06 --> 2185.94] Give me some facts -[2185.94 --> 2187.52] What do you know about lions? -[2188.04 --> 2189.40] They have a mane -[2189.40 --> 2190.00] Good one -[2190.00 --> 2192.56] They eat meat -[2192.56 --> 2198.22] Oh, but only the boy lions have maines -[2198.22 --> 2199.14] Yeah, that's -[2199.14 --> 2199.78] No, the girls -[2199.78 --> 2200.40] No, no, no -[2200.40 --> 2201.12] Too much hair -[2201.12 --> 2203.58] They roar -[2203.58 --> 2204.96] You guys have some great facts -[2204.96 --> 2207.24] They live in caves? -[2207.44 --> 2207.62] Oh -[2207.62 --> 2210.62] They can purr -[2210.62 --> 2211.12] That's right -[2211.12 --> 2212.66] Because they're just a giant cat -[2212.66 --> 2217.40] The females do the hunting -[2217.40 --> 2218.26] Not the males -[2218.26 --> 2219.42] That's the way to live -[2219.42 --> 2219.64] Hey? -[2222.08 --> 2223.74] You can see them at the zoo -[2223.74 --> 2224.44] Yeah -[2224.44 --> 2226.10] What's that? -[2227.20 --> 2228.72] They're a fat cat -[2228.72 --> 2230.92] They're big and lazy sometimes -[2230.92 --> 2231.92] Lions? -[2231.92 --> 2233.82] Oh man, those are lots of cool facts about lions -[2233.82 --> 2237.34] The lion is mentioned in the Bible quite a bit -[2237.34 --> 2239.06] There's a few places -[2239.06 --> 2241.34] There's a few really good stories with lions in them -[2241.34 --> 2244.58] And we already kind of talked about Pentecost -[2244.58 --> 2246.90] At Sunday school, at children's worship time -[2246.90 --> 2247.70] A couple weeks ago -[2247.70 --> 2251.00] So today we're going back to an older story we skipped -[2251.00 --> 2252.92] And that one involves lions -[2252.92 --> 2253.74] Lions -[2253.74 --> 2255.36] Do you think lions would make a good pet? -[2256.32 --> 2256.76] No -[2256.76 --> 2257.52] No? -[2257.66 --> 2257.96] Would you -[2257.96 --> 2258.78] No? -[2259.18 --> 2262.02] Would you like to have a lion sleeping in your bedroom with you? -[2262.64 --> 2263.06] Yes? -[2263.20 --> 2263.50] Okay -[2263.50 --> 2264.20] All right -[2264.20 --> 2264.52] Well -[2264.52 --> 2268.28] It is a wild animal in many cases for sure -[2268.28 --> 2269.78] Well we're going to talk about someone -[2269.78 --> 2271.48] They could purr -[2271.48 --> 2271.70] Yeah -[2271.70 --> 2275.34] We're going to talk about someone who had to sleep with a bunch of lions -[2275.34 --> 2277.74] And how that went -[2277.74 --> 2278.60] Yeah -[2278.60 --> 2280.76] Well let's go talk about that story -[2280.76 --> 2281.98] But first we'll do the blessing -[2281.98 --> 2283.00] And then we'll head off -[2283.00 --> 2284.38] Just children's worship time -[2284.38 --> 2286.52] Let's stand together -[2286.52 --> 2290.44] Okay ready? -[2292.58 --> 2293.06] Forward -[2293.06 --> 2293.58] Forward -[2308.60 --> 2322.94] Good morning -[2322.94 --> 2324.30] My name is Ken -[2324.30 --> 2326.42] I'm an elder here at Emanuel Christian Form Church -[2326.42 --> 2329.32] And today I'll be leading us in our church family prayer -[2329.32 --> 2331.16] Before we come to our Lord in Prayer -[2331.16 --> 2333.96] I just want to take a moment to remind us all that next Sunday -[2333.96 --> 2335.72] We will be celebrating the Lord's Supper -[2335.72 --> 2338.48] And so I encourage all of us to take some time this week -[2338.48 --> 2341.52] To prepare our hearts for the communion table -[2341.52 --> 2344.44] And also to speak with our children and our families -[2344.44 --> 2346.04] About what it means -[2346.04 --> 2348.78] And the blessing that we have to gather around the table -[2348.78 --> 2353.30] And commemorate our Lord's saving grace in our lives -[2353.30 --> 2356.82] So let's now bow our heads in prayer -[2356.82 --> 2359.62] Our Lord and our God -[2359.62 --> 2362.62] As we have gathered today on this Pentecost Sunday -[2362.62 --> 2366.14] There is truly no place we would rather be than here -[2366.14 --> 2367.42] In your love -[2367.42 --> 2370.10] Lord we're filled with awe and wonder -[2370.10 --> 2372.50] At the presence and the works of your Holy Spirit -[2372.50 --> 2374.76] Here in this moment and throughout our lives -[2374.76 --> 2377.10] And through our lives towards others -[2377.10 --> 2380.82] Father thank you for sending your spirit in Jesus' name -[2380.82 --> 2383.46] Holy Spirit stir in our hearts -[2383.46 --> 2385.58] To give us boldness to proclaim the gospel -[2385.58 --> 2388.12] To a world that so desperately needs it -[2388.12 --> 2391.16] We see the war in Ukraine continue -[2391.16 --> 2393.34] As well as wars in other parts of the world -[2393.34 --> 2394.48] And we confess Lord -[2394.48 --> 2396.84] That we often become desensitized -[2396.84 --> 2399.36] And even complacent to these situations over time -[2399.36 --> 2402.60] Holy Spirit remove complacency from our hearts -[2402.60 --> 2405.82] We pray that you will bring an end to the suffering -[2405.82 --> 2407.66] And pain caused by these wars -[2407.66 --> 2411.30] We also pray for all those who are grieving -[2411.30 --> 2413.70] The acts of violence and senseless shootings -[2413.70 --> 2415.02] That have taken place recently -[2415.02 --> 2418.06] There's so much pain and brokenness in this world -[2418.06 --> 2420.48] Lord we ask for comfort and healing -[2420.48 --> 2423.20] For all whose lives have been shattered by these shootings -[2423.20 --> 2427.02] Lord we also lift up all those in our congregation -[2427.02 --> 2428.82] Who grieve the loss of loved ones -[2428.82 --> 2431.24] We think of Leslie and Paul Kuhl -[2431.24 --> 2433.60] With the passing of Leslie's dad Bill Potma -[2433.60 --> 2436.28] And we also pray for Carolyn and Glenn Nort -[2436.28 --> 2438.38] With Carolyn's dad's passing -[2438.38 --> 2440.22] Pastor John Van Hemert -[2440.22 --> 2443.36] We also pray for those of us -[2443.36 --> 2445.26] Who have lost loved ones earlier this year -[2445.26 --> 2446.48] Or even in years past -[2446.48 --> 2447.72] And continue to miss them -[2447.72 --> 2450.64] Bring us all comfort and peace Lord -[2450.64 --> 2455.00] We continue to uphold the Rezabos family in prayer -[2455.00 --> 2457.92] As Louise continues to receive care in the hospital -[2457.92 --> 2461.20] We're thankful to hear that the feeding tube has been removed -[2461.20 --> 2463.26] But we know there is still much uncertainty -[2463.26 --> 2465.14] And time of waiting for the family -[2465.14 --> 2468.10] Holy Spirit we ask for full healing for Louise -[2468.10 --> 2471.04] And that you would provide strength for the whole family -[2471.04 --> 2474.60] We pray for everyone in our church -[2474.60 --> 2476.04] And outside our church -[2476.04 --> 2477.64] Who are struggling with relationships -[2477.64 --> 2479.06] That have become strained -[2479.06 --> 2482.56] Lord work in our hearts to guide us towards grace -[2482.56 --> 2485.08] With the grace we have received in Christ -[2485.08 --> 2488.46] We love because you first loved us -[2488.46 --> 2490.20] And we live because you live -[2490.20 --> 2492.66] Thank you Lord for giving us your love -[2492.66 --> 2494.16] And for giving us life -[2494.16 --> 2498.08] Holy Spirit breathe words of life into us -[2498.08 --> 2501.42] Even when we are hurt by those who are nearest to us -[2501.42 --> 2504.80] Lord we pray for our church denomination -[2504.80 --> 2507.60] And for the synod meetings that will take place -[2507.60 --> 2509.96] Starting this Friday and continuing on for a week -[2509.96 --> 2512.32] Lord please bless the discussions -[2512.32 --> 2514.54] And we ask that you guide and direct your church -[2514.54 --> 2515.32] Through these meetings -[2515.32 --> 2519.00] Thank you Lord for providing leadership for the church -[2519.00 --> 2521.66] Through the delegates who will participate in the synod -[2521.66 --> 2525.54] Lord we thank you for your church body here at Emmanuel -[2525.54 --> 2528.00] We praise you and thank you for the staff -[2528.00 --> 2528.88] Volunteers -[2528.88 --> 2529.40] Leaders -[2529.40 --> 2532.38] And participants in each of the ministries here -[2532.38 --> 2535.50] Holy Spirit we ask that you work through us -[2535.50 --> 2537.70] To grow your kingdom through our church -[2537.70 --> 2540.34] We pray that you prepare our hearts -[2540.34 --> 2542.90] As we plan to gather next week around your table -[2542.90 --> 2544.56] And participate in communion -[2544.56 --> 2547.64] And now Lord we ask that you speak to us -[2547.64 --> 2549.68] Through the words of your servant Pastor Chris -[2549.68 --> 2553.34] And that our lives may be transformed by your gospel -[2553.34 --> 2555.84] We pray all this in Jesus name -[2555.84 --> 2556.68] Amen -[2574.56 --> 2580.08] As we're getting ready to open God's word -[2580.08 --> 2582.84] I was just struck as Ken was praying -[2582.84 --> 2588.20] And as the worship team adapted so quickly to a strange circumstance -[2588.20 --> 2593.30] We are really dependent on our volunteers here at this church -[2593.30 --> 2594.88] And we have amazing volunteers -[2594.88 --> 2598.12] That's when someone says amen and applauds -[2598.12 --> 2600.64] Yeah there you go -[2600.64 --> 2608.04] And so I just want to plug an event that we have coming up on June 18 -[2608.04 --> 2610.88] It's called an all leaders lunch -[2610.88 --> 2615.68] But that's available to anyone who volunteers here in any capacity -[2615.68 --> 2618.68] We just want to thank you for the work that you do in our church -[2618.68 --> 2620.52] Making our mission and ministry possible -[2620.52 --> 2624.98] And encourage you with some fellowship and a light lunch -[2624.98 --> 2628.42] And then do some training and equipping there as well -[2628.42 --> 2631.80] So you maybe have seen in the e-bulletin -[2631.80 --> 2633.36] There's a link to sign up for that -[2633.36 --> 2634.94] If you don't receive the e-bulletin -[2634.94 --> 2638.08] You can go to our church website on the event page -[2638.08 --> 2640.90] Find the event for June 18 -[2640.90 --> 2644.42] But I want to encourage everyone who volunteers in any capacity -[2644.42 --> 2647.26] To sign up for that event -[2647.26 --> 2654.26] With that said we're going to spend some time here in God's word -[2654.26 --> 2657.62] And Enoch, I apologize for this -[2657.62 --> 2659.96] But I'm going to shoot from the hip for a moment here -[2659.96 --> 2664.04] And those of you who know me all of a sudden got scared -[2664.04 --> 2670.00] But I'm going to read for us from Philippians 2 -[2670.00 --> 2673.96] But then I also want to read from Acts 2 -[2673.96 --> 2679.84] As we ground ourselves on Pentecost Sunday -[2679.84 --> 2686.10] With the work of the Spirit to shape us and to transform our lives -[2686.10 --> 2688.38] And in fact, I'm going to start in Acts -[2688.38 --> 2692.28] And so Acts 2, which isn't going to be on the screen -[2692.28 --> 2694.58] Because this is a change -[2694.58 --> 2699.30] Acts 2, we're going to start at verse 42 -[2699.30 --> 2701.14] And just read to the end of the chapter -[2701.14 --> 2705.20] And then after that, we'll flip to Philippians 2 -[2705.20 --> 2711.58] Luke writes that they -[2711.58 --> 2713.96] That is the early Christian church -[2713.96 --> 2717.66] Those people who were first converted on Pentecost -[2717.66 --> 2720.88] And believing Jews from before them -[2720.88 --> 2724.60] They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching -[2724.60 --> 2726.02] And to fellowship -[2726.02 --> 2727.78] To the breaking of bread -[2727.78 --> 2728.94] And to prayer -[2728.94 --> 2733.20] Everyone was filled with awe -[2733.20 --> 2734.84] At many wonders and signs -[2734.84 --> 2736.10] Performed by the apostles -[2736.10 --> 2738.74] All the believers were together -[2738.74 --> 2740.38] And had everything in common -[2740.38 --> 2742.28] They sold property and possessions -[2742.28 --> 2744.12] To give to anyone who has need -[2744.12 --> 2747.08] Every day they continued to meet together -[2747.08 --> 2748.00] In the temple courts -[2748.00 --> 2749.64] They broke bread in their homes -[2749.64 --> 2751.90] And ate together with glad and sincere hearts -[2751.90 --> 2754.40] Praising God and enjoying the favor -[2754.40 --> 2755.36] Of all the people -[2755.36 --> 2758.38] And the Lord added to their number daily -[2758.38 --> 2760.48] Those who were being saved -[2760.48 --> 2763.52] Now on Pentecost Sunday -[2763.52 --> 2765.18] And as we are beginning a series -[2765.18 --> 2767.94] Into holy habits -[2767.94 --> 2769.40] I want you to know -[2769.40 --> 2771.62] That every habit we recommend to you -[2771.62 --> 2772.82] Over these next few weeks -[2772.82 --> 2774.80] Is grounded in this text from Acts 2 -[2774.80 --> 2777.14] And what the early church did -[2777.14 --> 2778.58] In response to the work of the Spirit -[2778.58 --> 2780.48] And to the forming of their community -[2780.48 --> 2782.40] So that is our foundation -[2782.40 --> 2783.42] For recommending -[2783.42 --> 2784.38] For commending -[2784.38 --> 2785.30] For encouraging -[2785.30 --> 2786.98] These holy habits -[2786.98 --> 2788.00] To you -[2788.00 --> 2789.70] And if that is the -[2789.70 --> 2791.24] Foundation for encouraging -[2791.24 --> 2793.74] Next from Philippians 2 -[2793.74 --> 2794.88] Is the motivation -[2794.88 --> 2796.64] For encouraging -[2796.64 --> 2797.78] So Philippians 2 -[2797.78 --> 2800.24] Verse 12 and 13 -[2800.24 --> 2803.02] Therefore -[2803.02 --> 2804.72] My dear friends -[2804.72 --> 2807.06] As you have always obeyed -[2807.06 --> 2808.60] Not only in my presence -[2808.60 --> 2810.46] But now much more in my absence -[2810.46 --> 2813.14] Continue to work out your salvation -[2813.14 --> 2814.96] With fear and trembling -[2814.96 --> 2818.06] For it is God who works in you -[2818.06 --> 2819.54] To will and to act -[2819.54 --> 2820.90] In order to fulfill -[2820.90 --> 2823.44] His good purpose -[2823.44 --> 2825.26] This is the word of the Lord -[2825.26 --> 2833.56] It seems to me -[2833.56 --> 2835.48] That recently -[2835.48 --> 2837.28] God has -[2837.28 --> 2839.96] Laid in front of my path -[2839.96 --> 2842.26] My life of faith -[2842.26 --> 2844.72] Many opportunities -[2844.72 --> 2846.54] More than is seemingly ordinary -[2846.54 --> 2847.92] Which might surprise you -[2847.92 --> 2848.96] Considering that I'm a pastor -[2848.96 --> 2850.46] But many opportunities -[2850.46 --> 2853.20] To talk to people about faith -[2853.20 --> 2855.98] Explicitly about faith -[2855.98 --> 2857.10] What is faith? -[2857.18 --> 2858.78] What does it mean to have faith? -[2858.86 --> 2860.06] What does it mean to experience -[2860.06 --> 2861.80] Or to feel faith? -[2861.92 --> 2864.44] And how do we find faith? -[2865.44 --> 2866.78] And what's been fascinating -[2866.78 --> 2868.58] Is this has been happening -[2868.58 --> 2869.28] In my life -[2869.28 --> 2869.48] It's -[2869.48 --> 2871.46] The conversations have been -[2871.46 --> 2873.18] Spanning the age -[2873.18 --> 2874.20] And demographic range -[2874.20 --> 2874.84] I've been talking to -[2874.84 --> 2876.72] High school kids -[2876.72 --> 2878.08] 20-somethings -[2878.08 --> 2879.74] And people in their 60s -[2879.74 --> 2880.86] And 70s -[2880.86 --> 2881.72] And maybe older -[2881.72 --> 2882.96] I won't wager to guess -[2882.96 --> 2883.58] How old they are -[2883.58 --> 2886.52] And as we've had -[2886.52 --> 2887.50] These conversations -[2887.50 --> 2888.90] Right -[2888.90 --> 2889.52] We're not just -[2889.52 --> 2891.82] Talking about any faith -[2891.82 --> 2892.70] But specifically -[2892.70 --> 2893.18] Of course -[2893.18 --> 2894.14] Christian faith -[2894.14 --> 2894.80] Our -[2894.80 --> 2896.20] Shared faith -[2896.20 --> 2896.62] Here -[2896.62 --> 2897.14] Right -[2897.14 --> 2898.56] In the midst of chaos -[2898.56 --> 2899.88] And turmoil -[2899.88 --> 2901.16] In the midst of doubt -[2901.16 --> 2902.04] And trial -[2902.04 --> 2902.80] In the midst of -[2902.80 --> 2903.78] So many things -[2903.78 --> 2904.36] That are happening -[2904.36 --> 2905.40] That are challenging -[2905.40 --> 2906.82] To our faith -[2906.82 --> 2907.74] In the midst of -[2907.74 --> 2908.62] Our obediences -[2908.62 --> 2910.66] And our disobediences -[2910.66 --> 2912.18] How do we -[2912.18 --> 2914.04] Have faith -[2914.04 --> 2916.88] And of course -[2916.88 --> 2917.56] This isn't always -[2917.56 --> 2919.02] A straightforward answer -[2919.02 --> 2921.04] Right -[2921.04 --> 2922.28] Your contexts -[2922.28 --> 2923.48] Change -[2923.48 --> 2924.40] Your circumstance -[2924.40 --> 2925.44] Is going to be different -[2925.44 --> 2927.06] Than the next person -[2927.06 --> 2927.90] Your experience -[2927.90 --> 2928.68] Is going to be different -[2928.68 --> 2929.22] Than the person -[2929.22 --> 2930.24] Beside you -[2930.24 --> 2931.46] And so -[2931.46 --> 2932.42] How you come -[2932.42 --> 2933.30] To understand -[2933.30 --> 2934.16] Or experience -[2934.16 --> 2934.52] Faith -[2934.52 --> 2935.66] In the midst -[2935.66 --> 2936.20] Of whatever -[2936.20 --> 2937.00] Is going on -[2937.00 --> 2937.66] Is also -[2937.66 --> 2938.62] Going to have -[2938.62 --> 2939.78] Its own hue -[2939.78 --> 2940.76] Is going to be -[2940.76 --> 2941.66] Different -[2941.66 --> 2943.94] And to complicate -[2943.94 --> 2944.92] Things a little bit -[2944.92 --> 2945.92] Even that word -[2945.92 --> 2946.52] Faith -[2946.52 --> 2948.30] Right -[2948.30 --> 2949.36] Has multiple -[2949.36 --> 2950.08] Meanings -[2950.08 --> 2951.74] Both in English -[2951.74 --> 2952.80] And as it's used -[2952.80 --> 2953.68] In the Bible -[2953.68 --> 2954.98] Right -[2954.98 --> 2956.26] The word faith -[2956.26 --> 2958.38] Is used to convey -[2958.38 --> 2959.78] A bunch of different ideas -[2959.78 --> 2961.14] For instance -[2961.14 --> 2962.14] You might say -[2962.14 --> 2963.20] About someone -[2963.20 --> 2964.92] I have faith in her -[2964.92 --> 2966.28] Right -[2966.28 --> 2967.04] And what we mean -[2967.04 --> 2967.74] When we say that -[2967.74 --> 2968.92] Is that we trust them -[2968.92 --> 2969.48] And we know -[2969.48 --> 2971.06] That she is able -[2971.06 --> 2972.64] Or she is capable -[2972.64 --> 2973.74] To do it -[2973.74 --> 2975.42] Or we might say -[2975.42 --> 2976.40] Something like -[2976.40 --> 2977.82] I have faith -[2977.82 --> 2978.98] That my experiment -[2978.98 --> 2980.68] Will prove my hypothesis -[2980.68 --> 2982.00] Right -[2982.00 --> 2982.94] In which case -[2982.94 --> 2984.42] Faith is used -[2984.42 --> 2985.82] As a statement -[2985.82 --> 2987.70] Of something unproven -[2987.70 --> 2990.04] And we also use faith -[2990.04 --> 2990.80] As a noun -[2990.80 --> 2991.92] Right -[2991.92 --> 2992.64] You might say -[2992.64 --> 2993.88] She and I share -[2993.88 --> 2994.76] A faith -[2994.76 --> 2995.90] In which case -[2995.90 --> 2996.28] Of course -[2996.28 --> 2997.64] We're referring to -[2997.64 --> 2999.80] A religious system -[2999.80 --> 3000.90] Or a set of ideas -[3000.90 --> 3001.72] And doctrines -[3001.72 --> 3002.48] And commitments -[3002.48 --> 3004.00] Now -[3004.00 --> 3005.32] We also -[3005.32 --> 3007.12] Use faith -[3007.12 --> 3008.68] In phrases like -[3008.68 --> 3009.74] Keep the faith -[3009.74 --> 3011.44] Or break faith -[3011.44 --> 3013.04] In which case -[3013.04 --> 3013.68] That means -[3013.68 --> 3014.78] Faith is understood -[3014.78 --> 3015.58] As loyalty -[3015.58 --> 3016.86] To someone -[3016.86 --> 3017.94] Or to something -[3017.94 --> 3019.26] And -[3019.26 --> 3020.64] Maybe you've heard it -[3020.64 --> 3021.46] This is more -[3021.46 --> 3022.86] In legal settings -[3022.86 --> 3024.40] But you hear the phrase -[3024.40 --> 3025.34] Good faith -[3025.34 --> 3026.60] Or bad faith -[3026.60 --> 3027.02] Right -[3027.02 --> 3027.88] They operated in -[3027.88 --> 3028.80] Good faith -[3028.80 --> 3029.50] In which case -[3029.50 --> 3030.84] Faith refers to -[3030.84 --> 3031.64] A kind of -[3031.64 --> 3032.64] Intentionality -[3032.64 --> 3035.30] And then -[3035.30 --> 3036.32] To complicate matters -[3036.32 --> 3037.82] Is faith and belief -[3037.82 --> 3038.46] The same thing -[3038.46 --> 3041.64] And further -[3041.64 --> 3042.58] To complicate -[3042.58 --> 3043.30] Even more -[3043.30 --> 3043.78] In the -[3043.78 --> 3044.66] Sort of broader -[3044.66 --> 3046.68] Evangelical world -[3046.68 --> 3047.12] Right -[3047.12 --> 3048.18] We also talk about -[3048.18 --> 3049.54] Saving faith -[3049.54 --> 3051.16] Right -[3051.16 --> 3052.40] I don't know -[3052.40 --> 3053.34] Ordinary faith -[3053.34 --> 3054.76] What's contrasting -[3054.76 --> 3055.46] From saving faith -[3055.46 --> 3055.84] Or are they -[3055.84 --> 3056.38] The same thing -[3056.38 --> 3058.96] Is faith a feeling -[3058.96 --> 3060.98] Is it something more -[3060.98 --> 3062.32] Is it something less -[3062.32 --> 3063.40] Is faith an action -[3063.40 --> 3064.54] Is faith knowledge -[3064.54 --> 3065.32] Is it belief -[3065.32 --> 3066.38] Is it right knowledge -[3066.38 --> 3067.72] Or right belief -[3067.72 --> 3069.76] What is faith -[3069.76 --> 3069.78] What is faith -[3069.78 --> 3071.92] Now -[3071.92 --> 3075.06] Some of you here -[3075.06 --> 3076.50] This morning -[3076.50 --> 3078.58] Particularly -[3078.58 --> 3079.46] Those of you -[3079.46 --> 3080.24] Who you know -[3080.24 --> 3081.40] Are really keen -[3081.40 --> 3081.92] And you know -[3081.92 --> 3082.42] Your Bibles -[3082.42 --> 3083.10] Really well -[3083.10 --> 3084.36] When you hear me -[3084.36 --> 3085.08] Ask the question -[3085.08 --> 3085.86] What is faith -[3085.86 --> 3086.92] You immediately -[3086.92 --> 3087.80] Think of Hebrews -[3087.80 --> 3088.84] 11 verse 1 -[3088.84 --> 3090.12] Right -[3090.12 --> 3090.72] Now faith -[3090.72 --> 3091.70] Is being sure -[3091.70 --> 3093.00] Of what you hope -[3093.00 --> 3094.10] For and certain -[3094.10 --> 3094.96] Of what you do -[3094.96 --> 3095.58] Not see -[3095.58 --> 3097.98] And if that's -[3097.98 --> 3098.58] Where your mind -[3098.58 --> 3098.96] Went -[3098.96 --> 3099.70] Right -[3099.70 --> 3100.30] You would -[3100.30 --> 3100.74] Of course -[3100.74 --> 3101.16] Be right -[3101.16 --> 3101.80] Because we're not -[3101.80 --> 3102.14] Going to argue -[3102.14 --> 3103.06] With what scripture -[3103.06 --> 3103.44] Says -[3103.44 --> 3103.98] Right -[3103.98 --> 3104.74] Faith is being -[3104.74 --> 3105.68] Sure of hope -[3105.68 --> 3106.66] And certain -[3106.66 --> 3107.52] Of the unseen -[3107.52 --> 3110.44] In many ways -[3110.44 --> 3110.92] Right -[3110.92 --> 3112.66] This understanding -[3112.66 --> 3113.54] Of faith -[3113.54 --> 3115.20] Is like a -[3115.20 --> 3115.94] Decision -[3115.94 --> 3117.66] Right -[3117.66 --> 3118.70] You have said -[3118.70 --> 3120.00] In this moment -[3120.00 --> 3121.22] In face of the uncertain -[3121.22 --> 3121.98] And the unseen -[3121.98 --> 3123.06] I will have hope -[3123.06 --> 3124.82] I will be convicted -[3124.82 --> 3126.28] I will be sure -[3126.28 --> 3128.16] And then -[3128.16 --> 3128.84] What happens -[3128.84 --> 3129.52] In the rest -[3129.52 --> 3130.54] Of Hebrews 11 -[3130.54 --> 3131.22] For those of you -[3131.22 --> 3132.02] Who are wondering -[3132.02 --> 3132.64] Is you get this -[3132.64 --> 3133.40] Long list -[3133.40 --> 3134.56] Of the heroes -[3134.56 --> 3135.38] Of faith -[3135.38 --> 3136.32] Right -[3136.32 --> 3136.96] People who were -[3136.96 --> 3137.76] Commended -[3137.76 --> 3139.34] For their faith -[3139.34 --> 3139.74] And so -[3139.74 --> 3140.48] It reads -[3140.48 --> 3141.62] By faith -[3141.62 --> 3142.28] Abel -[3142.28 --> 3143.20] Offered a better -[3143.20 --> 3143.92] Sacrifice -[3143.92 --> 3144.92] By faith -[3144.92 --> 3145.40] Noah -[3145.40 --> 3146.56] Built the ark -[3146.56 --> 3147.64] To save his family -[3147.64 --> 3148.56] By faith -[3148.56 --> 3149.18] Abraham -[3149.18 --> 3149.98] When called to -[3149.98 --> 3150.46] Obey -[3150.46 --> 3151.68] Or when called to go -[3151.68 --> 3152.90] Obeyed and went -[3152.90 --> 3153.54] Even though he -[3153.54 --> 3154.00] Didn't know -[3154.00 --> 3154.84] Where he was going -[3154.84 --> 3155.66] And then on -[3155.66 --> 3156.42] And on it goes -[3156.42 --> 3157.16] Through the -[3157.16 --> 3158.88] Heroes of faith -[3158.88 --> 3159.94] Isaac and Jacob -[3159.94 --> 3160.48] And Joseph -[3160.48 --> 3161.16] By faith -[3161.16 --> 3162.16] Moses chose -[3162.16 --> 3162.98] To be mistreated -[3162.98 --> 3163.68] Along with the -[3163.68 --> 3164.42] People of God -[3164.42 --> 3165.42] By faith -[3165.42 --> 3166.18] The prostitute -[3166.18 --> 3166.68] Rahab -[3166.68 --> 3167.26] Because she -[3167.26 --> 3168.08] Welcomed spies -[3168.08 --> 3169.40] Was not killed -[3169.40 --> 3171.42] And so according -[3171.42 --> 3172.28] To Hebrews 11 -[3172.28 --> 3172.76] When we take -[3172.76 --> 3173.48] Both the statement -[3173.48 --> 3174.80] And the expression -[3174.80 --> 3175.36] Of it -[3175.36 --> 3175.78] Right -[3175.78 --> 3176.48] Faith is a -[3176.48 --> 3177.10] Commitment -[3177.10 --> 3178.00] And a decision -[3178.00 --> 3179.36] To be a certain -[3179.36 --> 3179.72] Way -[3179.72 --> 3181.74] Particularly -[3181.74 --> 3183.24] To think -[3183.24 --> 3184.22] A certain way -[3184.22 --> 3184.92] And to be -[3184.92 --> 3186.00] Obedient -[3186.00 --> 3187.64] In a particular -[3187.64 --> 3188.34] Direction -[3188.34 --> 3189.70] And in that -[3189.70 --> 3190.94] Thinking and -[3190.94 --> 3191.58] Obedience -[3191.58 --> 3192.02] To be -[3192.02 --> 3193.02] Hopeful -[3193.02 --> 3195.46] Now -[3195.46 --> 3197.56] As you might -[3197.56 --> 3198.02] Expect -[3198.02 --> 3199.64] This idea -[3199.64 --> 3200.24] Is also -[3200.24 --> 3201.54] Conveyed -[3201.54 --> 3201.94] In the -[3201.94 --> 3202.34] Heidelberg -[3202.34 --> 3202.98] Catechism -[3202.98 --> 3204.04] The Heidelberg -[3204.04 --> 3204.60] Catechism -[3204.60 --> 3205.06] Is a -[3205.06 --> 3206.28] Summary -[3206.28 --> 3206.88] Statement -[3206.88 --> 3207.52] Of faith -[3207.52 --> 3208.32] That our church -[3208.32 --> 3208.90] And a lot -[3208.90 --> 3209.66] Of sort -[3209.66 --> 3210.28] Of continental -[3210.28 --> 3210.90] Reformed -[3210.90 --> 3211.42] Churches -[3211.42 --> 3211.94] Use -[3211.94 --> 3212.76] To help -[3212.76 --> 3213.60] Us understand -[3213.60 --> 3214.22] And summarize -[3214.22 --> 3214.92] The teachings -[3214.92 --> 3215.88] Of the Bible -[3215.88 --> 3216.28] It comes -[3216.28 --> 3216.58] From the -[3216.58 --> 3217.34] 16th century -[3217.34 --> 3218.78] If a handful -[3218.78 --> 3219.12] Of you -[3219.12 --> 3219.62] Thought about -[3219.62 --> 3220.30] Hebrews 11 -[3220.30 --> 3220.82] When I asked -[3220.82 --> 3221.24] The question -[3221.24 --> 3221.88] What is faith -[3221.88 --> 3222.54] There's maybe -[3222.54 --> 3223.06] Like three -[3223.06 --> 3223.40] Of you -[3223.40 --> 3224.00] That thought -[3224.00 --> 3224.32] About the -[3224.32 --> 3224.62] Heidelberg -[3224.62 --> 3225.20] Catechism -[3225.20 --> 3225.76] Right -[3225.76 --> 3226.40] Question and -[3226.40 --> 3226.62] Answer -[3226.62 --> 3226.92] Anyone -[3226.92 --> 3228.20] I didn't -[3228.20 --> 3228.48] Think so -[3228.48 --> 3228.84] 21 -[3228.84 --> 3230.50] Asks -[3230.50 --> 3230.88] This -[3230.88 --> 3231.84] What is -[3231.84 --> 3232.32] True -[3232.32 --> 3233.12] Faith -[3233.12 --> 3235.14] And then it -[3235.14 --> 3235.54] Goes on to -[3235.54 --> 3235.72] Say -[3235.72 --> 3236.48] True faith -[3236.48 --> 3237.30] Is not only -[3237.30 --> 3237.82] A sure -[3237.82 --> 3238.42] Knowledge -[3238.42 --> 3239.06] By which -[3239.06 --> 3239.70] I hold -[3239.70 --> 3240.38] As true -[3240.38 --> 3241.50] All that -[3241.50 --> 3242.06] God has -[3242.06 --> 3242.44] Revealed -[3242.44 --> 3242.86] To us -[3242.86 --> 3243.42] In scripture -[3243.42 --> 3244.92] It is also -[3244.92 --> 3246.00] A wholehearted -[3246.00 --> 3246.56] Trust -[3246.56 --> 3247.08] Which the -[3247.08 --> 3247.98] Holy Spirit -[3247.98 --> 3248.94] Welcome to -[3248.94 --> 3249.54] Pentecost -[3249.54 --> 3251.20] Grants in me -[3251.20 --> 3252.54] By the gospel -[3252.54 --> 3254.62] Faith -[3254.62 --> 3255.32] Is a -[3255.32 --> 3255.90] Knowledge -[3255.90 --> 3256.44] By which -[3256.44 --> 3256.94] I hold -[3256.94 --> 3257.76] As true -[3257.76 --> 3258.76] And a -[3258.76 --> 3259.34] Wholehearted -[3259.34 --> 3259.90] Trust -[3259.90 --> 3261.30] Created in me -[3261.30 --> 3261.94] Knowledge -[3261.94 --> 3262.76] And trust -[3262.76 --> 3263.34] Belief -[3263.34 --> 3263.80] Faith and -[3263.80 --> 3264.26] Commitment -[3264.26 --> 3264.78] Thinking -[3264.78 --> 3265.58] And -[3265.58 --> 3266.38] Doing -[3266.38 --> 3267.04] It is -[3267.04 --> 3268.12] Hopeful -[3268.12 --> 3269.30] Obedience -[3269.30 --> 3270.62] Faith -[3270.62 --> 3271.30] As I hope -[3271.30 --> 3271.74] You are -[3271.74 --> 3272.34] Beginning to -[3272.34 --> 3272.66] See -[3272.66 --> 3273.32] Is a -[3273.32 --> 3274.24] Comprehensive -[3274.24 --> 3275.18] Term -[3275.18 --> 3275.84] That means -[3275.84 --> 3276.30] A lot -[3276.30 --> 3277.16] But also -[3277.16 --> 3278.08] Does -[3278.08 --> 3279.56] A lot -[3279.56 --> 3281.28] And -[3281.28 --> 3282.54] Right -[3282.54 --> 3283.16] Faith -[3283.16 --> 3284.20] Is a -[3284.20 --> 3284.54] Gift -[3284.54 --> 3285.72] Right -[3285.72 --> 3286.06] We read -[3286.06 --> 3286.50] In the -[3286.50 --> 3287.34] Catechism -[3287.34 --> 3287.56] There -[3287.56 --> 3288.02] Which the -[3288.02 --> 3288.80] Holy Spirit -[3288.80 --> 3289.44] Creates -[3289.44 --> 3289.92] In me -[3289.92 --> 3290.66] By the -[3290.66 --> 3291.08] Gospel -[3291.08 --> 3292.32] Paul writes -[3292.32 --> 3292.72] In -[3292.72 --> 3293.36] Ephesians -[3293.36 --> 3293.74] 2 -[3293.74 --> 3294.96] For by -[3294.96 --> 3295.40] Grace -[3295.40 --> 3296.22] You have -[3296.22 --> 3296.42] Been -[3296.42 --> 3296.96] Saved -[3296.96 --> 3297.74] Through -[3297.74 --> 3298.50] Faith -[3298.50 --> 3299.68] And this -[3299.68 --> 3300.02] Is not -[3300.02 --> 3300.54] Your own -[3300.54 --> 3300.92] Doing -[3300.92 --> 3302.12] It is -[3302.12 --> 3302.66] The gift -[3302.66 --> 3303.90] Of -[3303.90 --> 3304.26] God -[3304.26 --> 3306.16] Now -[3306.16 --> 3310.08] Did you -[3310.08 --> 3310.42] Notice -[3310.42 --> 3311.82] As we -[3311.82 --> 3313.02] Went through -[3313.02 --> 3313.64] All those -[3313.64 --> 3314.76] Definitions -[3314.76 --> 3315.26] Of what -[3315.26 --> 3315.64] Faith -[3315.64 --> 3316.10] Is -[3316.10 --> 3317.10] Faith -[3317.10 --> 3317.42] Is -[3317.42 --> 3318.12] Never -[3318.12 --> 3319.96] Passive -[3319.96 --> 3322.48] Faith -[3322.48 --> 3323.10] Never -[3323.10 --> 3323.88] Sits -[3323.88 --> 3324.88] Idle -[3324.88 --> 3325.92] It -[3325.92 --> 3326.22] Never -[3326.22 --> 3326.60] Does -[3326.60 --> 3327.22] Nothing -[3327.22 --> 3328.60] That's a -[3328.60 --> 3328.76] Double -[3328.76 --> 3329.10] Negative -[3329.10 --> 3330.20] It -[3330.20 --> 3330.64] Always -[3330.64 --> 3330.96] Does -[3330.96 --> 3331.42] Something -[3331.42 --> 3332.04] Right -[3332.04 --> 3332.28] Even -[3332.28 --> 3332.56] In the -[3332.56 --> 3332.80] Case -[3332.80 --> 3333.00] Of -[3333.00 --> 3333.46] Ephesians -[3333.46 --> 3333.76] 2 -[3333.76 --> 3334.38] Right -[3334.38 --> 3334.54] Where -[3334.54 --> 3334.68] It -[3334.68 --> 3334.88] Says -[3334.88 --> 3335.12] That -[3335.12 --> 3336.04] Faith -[3336.04 --> 3336.24] Is -[3336.24 --> 3336.88] Explicitly -[3336.88 --> 3337.42] Recognized -[3337.42 --> 3337.56] As -[3337.56 --> 3337.76] Being -[3337.76 --> 3337.92] A -[3337.92 --> 3338.10] Gift -[3338.10 --> 3338.30] From -[3338.30 --> 3338.68] God -[3338.68 --> 3338.90] It -[3338.90 --> 3339.18] Is -[3339.18 --> 3339.50] Still -[3339.50 --> 3339.72] Not -[3339.72 --> 3340.04] Idle -[3340.04 --> 3340.24] For -[3340.24 --> 3340.40] By -[3340.40 --> 3340.76] Grace -[3340.76 --> 3340.94] You -[3340.94 --> 3341.12] Have -[3341.12 --> 3341.30] Been -[3341.30 --> 3341.70] Saved -[3341.70 --> 3341.96] Through -[3341.96 --> 3342.38] Faith -[3342.38 --> 3342.90] And -[3342.90 --> 3343.04] This -[3343.04 --> 3343.16] Is -[3343.16 --> 3343.40] Not -[3343.40 --> 3343.62] From -[3343.62 --> 3344.02] Yourselves -[3344.02 --> 3344.22] It -[3344.22 --> 3344.32] Is -[3344.32 --> 3344.46] The -[3344.46 --> 3344.70] Gift -[3344.70 --> 3344.86] Of -[3344.86 --> 3345.10] God -[3345.10 --> 3345.36] Not -[3345.36 --> 3345.56] By -[3345.56 --> 3345.76] Work -[3345.76 --> 3345.94] So -[3345.94 --> 3346.08] That -[3348.12 --> 3348.50] God's -[3348.50 --> 3349.36] Handiwork -[3349.36 --> 3350.74] Created -[3350.74 --> 3350.98] In -[3350.98 --> 3351.34] Christ -[3351.34 --> 3351.76] Jesus -[3351.76 --> 3352.56] To -[3352.56 --> 3352.86] Do -[3352.86 --> 3353.54] Good -[3353.54 --> 3354.50] Works -[3354.50 --> 3355.42] Which -[3355.42 --> 3355.68] God -[3355.68 --> 3356.16] Prepared -[3356.16 --> 3356.36] In -[3356.36 --> 3356.76] Advance -[3356.76 --> 3357.40] For -[3357.40 --> 3357.72] Us -[3357.72 --> 3358.44] To -[3358.44 --> 3358.66] Do -[3358.66 --> 3359.94] Faith -[3359.94 --> 3360.78] Isn't -[3360.78 --> 3361.72] Idle -[3361.72 --> 3362.70] True -[3362.70 --> 3363.12] Faith -[3363.12 --> 3363.88] Moves -[3363.88 --> 3364.10] It -[3364.10 --> 3364.64] Grows -[3364.64 --> 3364.86] It -[3364.86 --> 3365.34] Deepens -[3365.34 --> 3365.54] It -[3365.54 --> 3366.30] Develops -[3366.30 --> 3366.80] True -[3366.80 --> 3367.10] Faith -[3367.10 --> 3367.68] Does -[3367.68 --> 3368.16] And -[3368.16 --> 3368.44] True -[3368.44 --> 3368.82] Faith -[3368.82 --> 3369.50] Obeys -[3369.50 --> 3370.68] Now -[3370.68 --> 3372.40] Even -[3372.40 --> 3372.66] As I -[3372.66 --> 3372.80] Say -[3372.80 --> 3372.90] All -[3372.90 --> 3373.02] That -[3373.02 --> 3373.30] Don't -[3373.30 --> 3373.46] Hear -[3373.46 --> 3373.60] What -[3373.60 --> 3373.72] I'm -[3373.72 --> 3373.90] Not -[3373.90 --> 3374.24] Saying -[3374.24 --> 3374.48] Right -[3374.48 --> 3374.72] Because -[3374.72 --> 3375.22] The -[3375.22 --> 3375.72] Faithful -[3375.72 --> 3376.28] Person -[3376.28 --> 3376.94] You -[3376.94 --> 3377.50] Might -[3377.50 --> 3377.70] Be -[3377.70 --> 3377.94] Called -[3377.94 --> 3378.14] To -[3378.14 --> 3378.44] Wait -[3378.44 --> 3379.78] You -[3379.78 --> 3379.96] Might -[3379.96 --> 3380.12] Be -[3380.12 --> 3380.28] Called -[3380.28 --> 3380.44] To -[3380.44 --> 3380.78] Sit -[3380.78 --> 3381.18] You -[3381.18 --> 3381.34] Might -[3381.34 --> 3381.46] Be -[3381.46 --> 3381.58] Called -[3381.58 --> 3381.74] To -[3381.74 --> 3382.08] Rest -[3382.08 --> 3382.32] You -[3382.32 --> 3382.46] Might -[3382.46 --> 3382.62] Be -[3382.62 --> 3382.78] Called -[3382.78 --> 3382.94] To -[3382.94 --> 3383.78] Passivity -[3383.78 --> 3384.12] Or -[3384.12 --> 3384.52] Non -[3384.52 --> 3385.00] Action -[3385.00 --> 3385.58] But -[3385.58 --> 3385.74] The -[3385.74 --> 3386.24] Faithful -[3386.24 --> 3386.66] Person -[3386.66 --> 3387.12] Can -[3387.12 --> 3387.50] Wait -[3387.50 --> 3387.88] Can -[3387.88 --> 3388.28] Sit -[3388.28 --> 3388.74] Can -[3388.74 --> 3389.56] Rest -[3389.56 --> 3390.64] Precisely -[3390.64 --> 3391.36] Because -[3391.36 --> 3392.00] Faith -[3392.00 --> 3392.54] Is -[3392.54 --> 3392.82] At -[3392.82 --> 3393.08] Work -[3393.08 --> 3393.36] In -[3393.36 --> 3393.60] You -[3393.60 --> 3395.36] When -[3395.36 --> 3395.78] Faith -[3395.78 --> 3396.08] Is -[3396.08 --> 3396.32] At -[3396.32 --> 3396.62] Work -[3396.62 --> 3396.90] In -[3396.90 --> 3397.10] You -[3397.10 --> 3397.32] You -[3397.32 --> 3397.60] Can -[3397.60 --> 3398.28] Genuinely -[3398.28 --> 3399.12] Rest -[3399.12 --> 3400.82] In -[3400.82 --> 3400.98] Who -[3400.98 --> 3401.20] God -[3401.20 --> 3401.52] Is -[3401.52 --> 3404.82] So -[3404.82 --> 3406.16] As -[3406.16 --> 3406.32] The -[3406.32 --> 3406.60] Bible -[3406.60 --> 3407.10] Defines -[3407.10 --> 3407.30] It -[3407.30 --> 3407.46] As -[3407.46 --> 3407.64] Our -[3407.64 --> 3408.26] Confessions -[3408.26 --> 3408.82] Help -[3408.82 --> 3408.98] Us -[3408.98 --> 3409.46] Understand -[3409.46 --> 3409.74] It -[3409.74 --> 3410.42] I -[3410.42 --> 3410.78] Believe -[3410.78 --> 3411.04] That -[3411.04 --> 3411.62] Faith -[3411.62 --> 3411.96] Is -[3411.96 --> 3412.38] A -[3412.38 --> 3413.48] Capacity -[3413.48 --> 3414.50] Of -[3414.50 --> 3414.78] The -[3414.78 --> 3415.44] Human -[3415.44 --> 3415.92] Person -[3415.92 --> 3416.40] Faith -[3416.40 --> 3416.64] Is -[3416.64 --> 3416.90] Both -[3416.90 --> 3417.40] A -[3417.40 --> 3417.88] Knowledge -[3417.88 --> 3418.48] And -[3418.48 --> 3418.72] A -[3418.72 --> 3419.18] Practice -[3419.18 --> 3419.72] Faith -[3419.72 --> 3419.92] Is -[3419.92 --> 3420.08] A -[3420.08 --> 3420.54] Commitment -[3420.54 --> 3420.86] And -[3420.86 --> 3420.98] A -[3420.98 --> 3421.38] Decision -[3421.38 --> 3421.80] And -[3421.80 --> 3421.90] A -[3421.90 --> 3422.04] Way -[3422.04 --> 3422.22] Of -[3422.22 --> 3422.56] Living -[3422.56 --> 3423.04] Into -[3423.04 --> 3423.48] And -[3423.48 --> 3423.80] Out -[3423.80 --> 3424.10] Of -[3424.10 --> 3424.62] That -[3424.62 --> 3425.04] Decision -[3425.04 --> 3425.40] It -[3425.40 --> 3425.52] Is -[3425.52 --> 3426.12] Obedience -[3426.12 --> 3426.72] And -[3426.72 --> 3426.98] Hope -[3426.98 --> 3428.16] And -[3428.16 --> 3428.58] Faith -[3428.58 --> 3429.06] Is -[3429.06 --> 3429.26] The -[3429.26 --> 3429.98] Capacity -[3429.98 --> 3430.48] In -[3430.48 --> 3430.88] Us -[3430.88 --> 3431.12] To -[3431.12 --> 3431.70] Believe -[3431.70 --> 3432.26] In -[3432.26 --> 3432.76] Something -[3432.76 --> 3433.40] Beyond -[3433.40 --> 3433.86] What -[3433.86 --> 3434.08] Can -[3434.08 --> 3434.54] Be -[3434.54 --> 3435.72] Empirically -[3435.72 --> 3436.88] Verified -[3436.88 --> 3437.08] And -[3437.08 --> 3437.22] It -[3437.22 --> 3437.38] Is -[3437.38 --> 3437.54] The -[3437.54 --> 3438.18] Capacity -[3438.18 --> 3438.50] In -[3438.50 --> 3438.76] Us -[3438.76 --> 3438.96] That -[3438.96 --> 3439.62] Unites -[3439.62 --> 3440.16] Us -[3440.16 --> 3440.70] Now -[3440.70 --> 3441.22] To -[3441.22 --> 3441.92] Christ -[3441.92 --> 3442.22] As -[3442.22 --> 3443.16] God -[3443.16 --> 3444.40] Enlivens -[3444.40 --> 3444.94] Us -[3444.94 --> 3445.26] By -[3445.26 --> 3445.54] His -[3445.54 --> 3445.98] Grace -[3445.98 --> 3446.28] In -[3446.28 --> 3446.38] The -[3446.38 --> 3446.54] Work -[3446.54 --> 3446.64] Of -[3446.64 --> 3446.74] The -[3446.74 --> 3446.92] Holy -[3446.92 --> 3447.26] Spirit -[3447.26 --> 3449.20] And -[3449.20 --> 3449.44] So -[3449.44 --> 3449.98] Hear -[3449.98 --> 3450.40] This -[3450.40 --> 3450.96] That -[3450.96 --> 3452.20] That -[3452.20 --> 3452.52] We -[3452.52 --> 3453.08] Have -[3453.08 --> 3453.72] Faith -[3453.72 --> 3455.02] Doesn't -[3455.02 --> 3455.74] Save -[3455.74 --> 3456.24] Us -[3456.24 --> 3457.62] Right -[3457.62 --> 3457.74] It -[3457.74 --> 3457.88] Is -[3457.88 --> 3458.08] The -[3458.08 --> 3458.60] Object -[3458.60 --> 3459.20] Of -[3459.20 --> 3459.44] Our -[3459.44 --> 3459.92] Faith -[3459.92 --> 3460.40] Who -[3460.40 --> 3460.74] Saves -[3460.74 --> 3460.94] Us -[3460.94 --> 3461.10] That -[3461.10 --> 3461.26] Is -[3461.26 --> 3461.62] Jesus -[3461.62 --> 3462.16] Christ -[3462.16 --> 3462.58] Faith -[3462.58 --> 3463.42] Unites -[3463.42 --> 3463.68] Us -[3463.68 --> 3463.88] To -[3463.88 --> 3464.36] Jesus -[3464.36 --> 3465.12] By -[3465.12 --> 3465.50] Whom -[3465.50 --> 3465.72] We -[3465.72 --> 3465.94] Are -[3465.94 --> 3466.38] Saved -[3466.38 --> 3467.08] Faith -[3467.08 --> 3467.28] Then -[3467.28 --> 3467.42] Is -[3467.42 --> 3467.72] A -[3467.72 --> 3468.18] Function -[3468.18 --> 3468.64] A -[3468.64 --> 3469.20] Capacity -[3469.20 --> 3469.74] And -[3469.74 --> 3469.88] An -[3469.88 --> 3470.16] Act -[3470.16 --> 3470.36] That -[3470.36 --> 3471.14] Unites -[3471.14 --> 3471.42] Us -[3471.42 --> 3471.60] And -[3471.60 --> 3471.82] Now -[3471.82 --> 3472.90] This -[3472.90 --> 3473.00] Is -[3473.00 --> 3473.12] What -[3473.12 --> 3473.24] We're -[3473.24 --> 3473.48] Building -[3473.48 --> 3473.74] To -[3473.74 --> 3474.92] As -[3474.92 --> 3475.08] A -[3475.08 --> 3475.80] Capacity -[3475.80 --> 3477.14] Rather -[3477.14 --> 3477.44] Than -[3477.44 --> 3477.72] Just -[3477.72 --> 3477.92] As -[3477.92 --> 3478.06] A -[3478.06 --> 3478.20] Set -[3478.20 --> 3478.32] Of -[3478.32 --> 3478.86] Ideas -[3478.86 --> 3479.84] Faith -[3479.84 --> 3480.60] Can -[3480.60 --> 3480.96] Be -[3480.96 --> 3481.96] And -[3481.96 --> 3482.22] Should -[3482.22 --> 3482.56] Be -[3482.56 --> 3483.46] Grown -[3483.46 --> 3485.18] Developed -[3485.18 --> 3485.88] As -[3485.88 --> 3485.98] A -[3485.98 --> 3486.58] Capacity -[3486.58 --> 3486.90] Of -[3486.90 --> 3487.02] What -[3487.02 --> 3487.14] It -[3487.14 --> 3487.44] Means -[3487.44 --> 3487.90] To -[3487.90 --> 3488.08] Be -[3488.08 --> 3488.56] Human -[3488.56 --> 3489.22] Faith -[3489.22 --> 3489.46] Can -[3489.46 --> 3489.64] Be -[3489.64 --> 3490.36] Stretched -[3490.36 --> 3490.68] And -[3490.68 --> 3491.42] Challenged -[3491.42 --> 3491.56] And -[3491.56 --> 3492.46] Deepened -[3492.46 --> 3493.32] As -[3493.32 --> 3493.46] A -[3493.46 --> 3494.18] Capacity -[3494.18 --> 3495.28] Faith -[3495.28 --> 3495.90] Is -[3495.90 --> 3496.18] Like -[3496.18 --> 3496.34] A -[3496.34 --> 3496.74] Muscle -[3496.74 --> 3498.46] And -[3498.46 --> 3498.68] With -[3498.68 --> 3498.84] It -[3498.84 --> 3498.98] You -[3498.98 --> 3499.18] Can -[3499.18 --> 3499.60] Lift -[3499.60 --> 3500.04] And -[3500.04 --> 3500.26] Be -[3500.26 --> 3500.80] Lifted -[3500.80 --> 3501.70] And -[3501.70 --> 3501.96] Without -[3501.96 --> 3502.26] It -[3502.26 --> 3502.60] You -[3502.60 --> 3502.92] Remain -[3502.92 --> 3503.30] Still -[3503.30 --> 3504.74] In -[3504.74 --> 3504.94] Fact -[3504.94 --> 3506.06] Let's -[3506.06 --> 3506.62] Let's -[3506.62 --> 3506.82] Use -[3506.82 --> 3507.04] That -[3507.04 --> 3507.44] Analogy -[3507.44 --> 3507.72] For -[3507.72 --> 3507.84] A -[3507.84 --> 3508.04] Moment -[3508.04 --> 3508.30] And -[3508.30 --> 3508.90] Dig -[3508.90 --> 3509.22] Into -[3509.22 --> 3509.36] It -[3509.36 --> 3509.48] The -[3509.48 --> 3510.30] Analogy -[3510.30 --> 3510.52] Of -[3510.52 --> 3510.86] Faith -[3510.86 --> 3511.68] As -[3511.68 --> 3511.80] A -[3511.80 --> 3512.12] Muscle -[3512.12 --> 3513.26] If -[3513.26 --> 3513.36] I -[3513.36 --> 3513.48] Could -[3513.48 --> 3513.72] Sum -[3513.72 --> 3513.86] Up -[3513.86 --> 3514.08] This -[3514.08 --> 3514.50] Series -[3514.50 --> 3515.14] That -[3515.14 --> 3515.28] We -[3515.28 --> 3515.44] Are -[3515.44 --> 3515.82] In -[3515.82 --> 3516.06] And -[3516.06 --> 3516.32] The -[3516.32 --> 3517.72] Prayed -[3517.72 --> 3518.04] For -[3518.04 --> 3518.60] Effect -[3518.60 --> 3519.06] Of -[3519.06 --> 3519.32] This -[3519.32 --> 3519.58] Little -[3519.58 --> 3520.12] Booklet -[3520.12 --> 3520.38] In -[3520.38 --> 3520.58] Your -[3520.58 --> 3521.04] Life -[3521.04 --> 3521.40] For -[3521.40 --> 3522.22] Practicing -[3522.22 --> 3522.56] Holy -[3522.56 --> 3523.00] Habits -[3523.00 --> 3523.56] Is -[3523.56 --> 3523.74] That -[3523.74 --> 3524.00] This -[3524.00 --> 3524.48] Series -[3524.48 --> 3524.80] Would -[3524.80 --> 3525.16] Be -[3525.16 --> 3525.70] About -[3525.70 --> 3526.74] Flexing -[3526.74 --> 3527.02] And -[3527.02 --> 3527.42] Learning -[3527.42 --> 3527.70] How -[3527.70 --> 3527.92] To -[3527.92 --> 3528.50] Flex -[3528.50 --> 3529.06] The -[3529.06 --> 3529.72] Muscle -[3529.72 --> 3530.54] Of -[3530.54 --> 3530.80] Our -[3530.80 --> 3531.18] Faith -[3531.18 --> 3532.98] Now -[3532.98 --> 3533.10] When -[3533.10 --> 3533.24] You -[3533.24 --> 3534.00] Exercise -[3534.00 --> 3535.62] Muscles -[3535.62 --> 3536.68] Get -[3536.68 --> 3537.30] Torn -[3537.30 --> 3537.72] Apart -[3537.72 --> 3537.94] They -[3537.94 --> 3538.06] Get -[3538.06 --> 3538.22] Like -[3538.22 --> 3538.66] Micro -[3538.66 --> 3539.18] Tears -[3539.18 --> 3539.46] In -[3539.46 --> 3539.70] Them -[3539.70 --> 3540.18] And -[3540.18 --> 3540.32] Then -[3540.32 --> 3540.52] They -[3540.52 --> 3540.80] Knit -[3540.80 --> 3541.08] Back -[3541.08 --> 3541.50] Together -[3541.50 --> 3542.08] And -[3542.08 --> 3542.16] So -[3542.16 --> 3542.44] As -[3542.44 --> 3542.70] You -[3542.70 --> 3543.60] Stretch -[3543.60 --> 3544.10] Beyond -[3544.10 --> 3544.34] What -[3544.34 --> 3544.48] You -[3544.48 --> 3544.64] Are -[3544.64 --> 3545.12] Capable -[3545.12 --> 3545.36] As -[3545.36 --> 3545.50] You -[3545.50 --> 3546.32] Lift -[3546.32 --> 3546.58] A -[3546.58 --> 3546.82] Weight -[3546.82 --> 3547.36] Higher -[3547.36 --> 3547.38] Higher -[3547.38 --> 3547.40] Higher -[3547.40 --> 3547.58] Than -[3547.58 --> 3547.70] You -[3547.70 --> 3547.84] Are -[3547.84 --> 3548.50] Able -[3548.50 --> 3548.90] To -[3548.90 --> 3550.00] Tears -[3550.00 --> 3550.48] Occur -[3550.48 --> 3550.80] Tiny -[3550.80 --> 3551.20] Micro -[3551.20 --> 3551.88] Tears -[3551.88 --> 3552.26] Occur -[3552.26 --> 3552.48] And -[3552.48 --> 3552.64] The -[3552.64 --> 3553.60] Further -[3553.60 --> 3553.86] You -[3553.86 --> 3554.14] Go -[3554.14 --> 3554.52] Beyond -[3554.52 --> 3554.70] What -[3554.70 --> 3554.84] You've -[3554.84 --> 3554.98] Done -[3554.98 --> 3555.38] Before -[3555.38 --> 3555.58] The -[3555.58 --> 3555.86] Higher -[3555.86 --> 3556.12] The -[3556.12 --> 3556.76] Weight -[3556.76 --> 3556.96] The -[3556.96 --> 3557.20] Bigger -[3557.20 --> 3557.36] The -[3557.36 --> 3557.76] Stretch -[3557.76 --> 3558.64] Things -[3558.64 --> 3559.14] Start -[3559.14 --> 3559.40] To -[3559.40 --> 3559.84] Tear -[3559.84 --> 3560.56] Apart -[3560.56 --> 3560.80] The -[3560.80 --> 3561.32] Sinews -[3561.32 --> 3561.52] In -[3561.52 --> 3561.64] Your -[3561.64 --> 3562.00] Muscles -[3562.00 --> 3562.28] Begin -[3562.28 --> 3562.48] To -[3562.48 --> 3563.42] Separate -[3563.42 --> 3563.64] And -[3563.64 --> 3564.24] Swell -[3564.24 --> 3564.54] And -[3564.54 --> 3565.30] Pull -[3565.30 --> 3565.56] And -[3565.56 --> 3565.86] As -[3565.86 --> 3566.08] You -[3566.08 --> 3566.54] Rest -[3566.54 --> 3566.92] And -[3566.92 --> 3567.36] Recover -[3567.36 --> 3567.74] And -[3567.74 --> 3568.26] Of -[3568.26 --> 3568.50] Course -[3568.50 --> 3568.78] As -[3568.78 --> 3568.96] You -[3568.96 --> 3569.14] Eat -[3569.14 --> 3569.28] The -[3569.28 --> 3569.46] Right -[3569.46 --> 3570.14] Proteins -[3570.14 --> 3570.38] And -[3570.38 --> 3570.82] Carbs -[3570.82 --> 3570.96] And -[3570.96 --> 3571.08] You're -[3571.08 --> 3571.52] Hydrating -[3571.52 --> 3571.70] The -[3571.70 --> 3571.92] Muscles -[3571.92 --> 3572.40] Properly -[3572.40 --> 3572.80] They -[3572.80 --> 3573.06] Come -[3573.06 --> 3573.28] Back -[3573.28 --> 3573.76] Bigger -[3573.76 --> 3574.14] And -[3574.14 --> 3574.74] Stronger -[3574.74 --> 3574.92] And -[3574.92 --> 3575.34] Faster -[3575.34 --> 3575.64] And -[3575.64 --> 3576.18] More -[3576.18 --> 3576.80] Flexible -[3576.80 --> 3578.52] Holy -[3578.52 --> 3579.20] Habits -[3579.20 --> 3580.30] Spiritual -[3580.30 --> 3581.16] Disciplines -[3581.16 --> 3582.34] Are -[3582.34 --> 3582.52] The -[3582.52 --> 3582.76] Same -[3582.76 --> 3584.62] Like -[3584.62 --> 3584.94] Any -[3584.94 --> 3585.48] Exercise -[3585.48 --> 3586.10] Program -[3586.10 --> 3586.76] Growing -[3586.76 --> 3587.20] Our -[3587.20 --> 3588.00] Capacity -[3588.00 --> 3588.66] Of -[3588.66 --> 3588.96] Faith -[3588.96 --> 3589.86] Stretches -[3589.86 --> 3590.14] You -[3590.14 --> 3590.68] Beyond -[3590.68 --> 3591.02] What -[3591.02 --> 3591.20] You -[3591.20 --> 3591.38] Are -[3591.38 --> 3591.88] Capable -[3591.88 --> 3592.08] Of -[3592.08 --> 3592.74] Handling -[3592.74 --> 3593.36] And -[3593.36 --> 3594.06] Tears -[3594.06 --> 3594.60] Occur -[3594.60 --> 3595.06] Right -[3595.06 --> 3595.40] God -[3595.40 --> 3595.82] Breaks -[3595.82 --> 3596.18] Down -[3596.18 --> 3596.98] Walls -[3596.98 --> 3597.14] The -[3597.14 --> 3597.46] Further -[3597.46 --> 3597.72] You -[3597.72 --> 3598.10] Go -[3598.10 --> 3598.74] And -[3598.74 --> 3598.86] The -[3598.86 --> 3599.04] Further -[3599.04 --> 3599.22] You -[3599.22 --> 3599.42] Go -[3599.42 --> 3599.86] Beyond -[3599.86 --> 3600.04] Where -[3600.04 --> 3600.18] You -[3600.18 --> 3600.32] Have -[3600.32 --> 3600.52] Ever -[3600.52 --> 3600.72] Gone -[3600.72 --> 3601.14] Before -[3601.14 --> 3601.68] Your -[3601.68 --> 3602.48] Dependency -[3602.48 --> 3602.74] On -[3602.74 --> 3603.08] God -[3603.08 --> 3603.34] Goes -[3603.34 --> 3603.64] Up -[3603.64 --> 3603.88] And -[3603.88 --> 3604.10] Gets -[3604.10 --> 3604.50] Higher -[3604.50 --> 3604.68] And -[3604.68 --> 3604.82] Your -[3604.82 --> 3605.74] Recognition -[3605.74 --> 3605.94] Of -[3605.94 --> 3606.04] Your -[3606.04 --> 3606.66] Dependency -[3606.66 --> 3607.16] On -[3607.16 --> 3607.42] God -[3607.42 --> 3607.64] Goes -[3607.64 --> 3607.88] Up -[3607.88 --> 3608.24] And -[3608.24 --> 3608.46] Higher -[3608.46 --> 3608.64] As -[3608.64 --> 3608.82] We -[3608.82 --> 3609.02] Are -[3609.02 --> 3609.48] Broken -[3609.48 --> 3610.08] Down -[3610.08 --> 3610.40] In -[3610.40 --> 3610.60] Our -[3610.60 --> 3610.90] Need -[3610.90 --> 3611.12] For -[3611.12 --> 3611.54] God -[3611.54 --> 3611.94] We -[3611.94 --> 3612.16] Make -[3612.16 --> 3612.46] More -[3612.46 --> 3612.72] Room -[3612.72 --> 3612.94] For -[3612.94 --> 3613.14] God -[3613.14 --> 3613.30] To -[3613.30 --> 3613.52] Come -[3613.52 --> 3613.94] In -[3613.94 --> 3614.28] And -[3614.28 --> 3614.66] Fill -[3614.66 --> 3614.94] Us -[3614.94 --> 3615.20] With -[3615.20 --> 3615.96] Power -[3615.96 --> 3617.04] And -[3617.04 --> 3617.18] As -[3617.18 --> 3617.34] We -[3617.34 --> 3617.70] Rest -[3617.70 --> 3618.28] And -[3618.28 --> 3618.42] As -[3618.42 --> 3618.56] We -[3618.56 --> 3618.98] Recover -[3618.98 --> 3619.56] As -[3619.56 --> 3619.72] We -[3619.72 --> 3620.18] Continue -[3620.18 --> 3620.62] In -[3620.62 --> 3620.84] This -[3620.84 --> 3621.22] Journey -[3621.22 --> 3621.64] Of -[3621.64 --> 3622.28] Spiritual -[3622.28 --> 3623.00] Exercise -[3623.00 --> 3623.58] Being -[3623.58 --> 3623.98] Nourished -[3623.98 --> 3624.22] By -[3624.22 --> 3624.42] The -[3624.42 --> 3624.78] Word -[3624.78 --> 3625.32] And -[3630.32 --> 3630.88] Flexible -[3630.88 --> 3634.14] And -[3634.14 --> 3634.30] Hear -[3634.30 --> 3634.66] This -[3634.66 --> 3635.90] In -[3635.90 --> 3636.64] Exercise -[3636.64 --> 3639.46] Particularly -[3639.46 --> 3639.78] In -[3639.78 --> 3639.96] Weight -[3639.96 --> 3640.28] Lifting -[3640.28 --> 3641.58] When -[3641.58 --> 3641.76] You -[3641.76 --> 3642.38] Stop -[3642.38 --> 3643.04] Pushing -[3643.04 --> 3643.38] The -[3643.38 --> 3643.72] Limit -[3643.72 --> 3644.02] Of -[3644.02 --> 3644.32] Your -[3644.32 --> 3645.32] Capabilities -[3645.32 --> 3646.22] Right -[3646.22 --> 3646.36] When -[3646.36 --> 3646.48] You -[3646.48 --> 3646.96] Stop -[3646.96 --> 3647.52] Stretching -[3647.52 --> 3647.96] Beyond -[3647.96 --> 3648.28] What -[3648.28 --> 3648.48] You -[3648.48 --> 3648.94] Are -[3648.94 --> 3649.36] Capable -[3649.36 --> 3649.54] Of -[3649.54 --> 3649.86] Doing -[3649.86 --> 3650.72] You -[3650.72 --> 3651.28] Plateau -[3651.28 --> 3653.36] When -[3653.36 --> 3653.48] You -[3653.48 --> 3653.74] Stop -[3653.74 --> 3654.04] Pushing -[3654.04 --> 3654.42] Yourself -[3654.42 --> 3654.80] Faster -[3654.80 --> 3655.00] Or -[3655.00 --> 3655.26] Heavier -[3655.26 --> 3655.44] Or -[3655.44 --> 3655.60] More -[3655.60 --> 3655.94] Reps -[3655.94 --> 3656.08] Your -[3656.08 --> 3656.44] Muscle -[3656.44 --> 3656.88] Stops -[3656.88 --> 3657.66] Growing -[3657.66 --> 3658.06] And -[3658.06 --> 3658.44] So -[3658.44 --> 3658.94] Too -[3658.94 --> 3659.84] With -[3659.84 --> 3662.02] The -[3662.02 --> 3662.26] Muscle -[3662.26 --> 3662.40] Of -[3662.40 --> 3663.58] Faith -[3663.58 --> 3664.76] When -[3664.76 --> 3666.08] You -[3666.08 --> 3666.36] Stop -[3666.36 --> 3667.10] Pursuing -[3667.10 --> 3667.66] Growth -[3667.66 --> 3667.92] Growth -[3667.92 --> 3668.30] Doesn't -[3668.30 --> 3668.66] Happen -[3668.66 --> 3687.20] Now even as I say that I know that that's a bit of an aphorism that's a truism right that it sounds obvious if you don't pursue growth you won't grow but it's worth stating because I can't tell you how many times people in our conversations haven't put two and two together people say to me I kind of lost my faith -[3687.20 --> 3688.48] People say I don't really feel faith. -[3688.48 --> 3690.60] People say I don't really feel anything. -[3690.60 --> 3698.84] I'm not sure I believe I want to believe at least I think I want to believe I know it's right that I should believe that I should have more faith but I just don't have it. -[3700.20 --> 3704.10] And so then I ask well what are you doing to grow your faith? -[3705.70 --> 3707.30] What are you doing to find faith? -[3707.80 --> 3711.26] How are you actively seeking God in the midst of this? -[3711.26 --> 3718.16] What are you doing to grow your faith to increase your capacity for faith to flex the muscle of your faith? -[3719.24 --> 3721.24] Again let's continue this analogy. -[3722.08 --> 3735.88] It's not fair right if I go around complaining to you that I don't have a washboard stomach and can't bench press 300 pounds and then all I do is sit on the couch and eat another pizza. -[3735.88 --> 3742.60] Right sooner or later someone needs to say to me get your fat butt in the gym if that's what you want. -[3744.06 --> 3751.76] And if you want a stronger capacity for faith maybe you need to get your butt into a holy habit. -[3753.76 --> 3759.80] And again here's this other thing about muscles right if you don't use them you will lose them. -[3759.80 --> 3763.88] Truth is unused muscle atrophies. -[3764.30 --> 3765.90] It wastes away and it dies. -[3767.80 --> 3777.58] Maybe you've had opportunity either through work or with family or however the case may be but to see someone who goes into palliative care. -[3778.88 --> 3779.04] Right? -[3779.18 --> 3780.12] I've seen it before. -[3780.26 --> 3786.22] Someone goes into palliative care and they're strong and they're healthy and then just weeks later, -[3786.22 --> 3788.58] maybe a month later, -[3788.70 --> 3790.52] because they're trapped in bed, -[3790.92 --> 3795.46] they're gaunt and their skin is hanging loose off their arms and legs. -[3795.62 --> 3801.68] And I've seen it becomes hard even to hold a cup and bring it to your mouth to take a sip. -[3803.06 --> 3805.58] Muscles atrophy without use. -[3807.66 --> 3811.44] Faith atrophies without use. -[3811.44 --> 3814.60] Some of you here this morning, -[3814.70 --> 3816.36] some of you listening online, -[3816.50 --> 3817.94] have ignored your faith -[3817.94 --> 3821.00] and your muscles have become weak -[3821.00 --> 3826.12] and then you've begun to define your experience of faith on those weak muscles. -[3829.78 --> 3830.74] Some of you, -[3831.74 --> 3833.38] let's be bold, -[3834.08 --> 3835.10] are dead inside. -[3836.96 --> 3838.10] You just don't show it. -[3838.58 --> 3838.76] Right? -[3838.78 --> 3839.74] You've learned how to hide it. -[3839.74 --> 3845.14] And some of us haven't experienced this kind of growth in faith for so long -[3845.14 --> 3847.02] that we now just don't believe it's even possible. -[3848.20 --> 3849.30] And if that's you, -[3850.58 --> 3852.68] if that strikes a chord in any way, -[3852.80 --> 3857.90] it is my prayer that this series is used by the Holy Spirit -[3857.90 --> 3860.02] to get your butt into a holy habit. -[3861.60 --> 3864.86] And then that God will use that to grow your faith, -[3864.94 --> 3866.34] to reveal himself to you, -[3866.34 --> 3872.70] to stir your heart's affections as you are captivated by the glory of his presence in your life. -[3873.62 --> 3874.68] But here's the thing, -[3875.42 --> 3876.50] and this is for all of us. -[3876.98 --> 3878.10] If you want more, -[3878.66 --> 3879.74] you're going to have to do more. -[3881.02 --> 3882.12] If you are here, -[3882.22 --> 3887.90] it's our hope that you hunger for a greater depth and vitality in your faith and in your life. -[3887.90 --> 3892.96] And you may be here because there's part of your heart that says, -[3893.06 --> 3894.72] there's a part of you that says, -[3894.86 --> 3896.18] I want more than this. -[3897.04 --> 3901.92] I want a spirit-filled life that feels more like life. -[3901.92 --> 3905.78] And you might be here because you don't know how to get there, -[3905.88 --> 3907.20] how to gain access, -[3907.34 --> 3909.94] or how to flex your muscles of faith. -[3911.28 --> 3912.94] And so over the next five weeks, -[3913.02 --> 3916.44] our hope is to introduce to you -[3916.44 --> 3920.48] and start you off in some practices of faith, -[3920.84 --> 3922.30] some holy habits. -[3922.40 --> 3923.00] And to do that, -[3923.06 --> 3923.84] we have this book. -[3923.94 --> 3924.56] You can see it. -[3924.58 --> 3925.72] You've been flipping through it. -[3925.72 --> 3927.44] You'll notice that every week, -[3927.56 --> 3929.70] there is a section for sermon notes, -[3929.80 --> 3932.56] so you can jot down ideas and thoughts. -[3933.58 --> 3938.14] Gives you a bit of the theme statement for that week and for that service. -[3938.58 --> 3941.44] Then there's a section for your own journaling to go through. -[3942.50 --> 3945.74] And you can think through some things there with a pen. -[3946.90 --> 3950.04] And then there's a section called throughout the week, -[3950.44 --> 3955.36] where we give you things to discuss or to look at and to practice. -[3955.72 --> 3960.50] You'll notice if you're looking at week one throughout the week, -[3961.10 --> 3966.30] there's a link in there to the Faith Practices Project, -[3966.90 --> 3970.96] which comes from the Faith Formation Ministries of the Christian Reformed Church. -[3971.50 --> 3973.82] This is a really great resource for you -[3973.82 --> 3979.60] as you dig into some of the spiritual practices that we are holding out -[3979.60 --> 3982.48] and some new ones and other ones. -[3982.48 --> 3986.16] Like I said at the very beginning, -[3986.74 --> 3991.36] we in our time here are going to focus on four key practices -[3991.36 --> 3995.58] that are largely connected to the description of the early church -[3995.58 --> 3997.18] that we read in Acts 2. -[3997.66 --> 3998.76] How they came together, -[3998.88 --> 4002.88] how they did life and devotion and practiced together. -[4003.02 --> 4004.64] So we will talk about Bible reading. -[4005.26 --> 4008.22] We will talk about prayer and worship together. -[4008.22 --> 4011.94] We are going to talk and learn about what it means to rest -[4011.94 --> 4015.28] and how to practice the spiritual discipline of rest -[4015.28 --> 4018.20] and to be part of a community that rests. -[4019.02 --> 4025.02] And then we will end with a discussion on giving to the mission of Jesus, -[4025.32 --> 4028.42] both with our finances as well in Acts of Service, -[4029.16 --> 4033.38] and how we come together in community to use our time for the kingdom. -[4033.38 --> 4040.10] So myself and Pastor Kevin and Josh are going to be leading over these next few weeks -[4040.10 --> 4046.54] based on our experiences, our practices of these holy habits together. -[4046.54 --> 4051.68] And we really do invite you to dig in deep with the help of this book -[4051.68 --> 4054.76] and with the help of your community around you. -[4055.48 --> 4059.64] And so whether that's a care group or another ministry group that you are part of, -[4059.64 --> 4066.22] dig in together in your community groups through these holy habits. -[4067.60 --> 4071.32] And then even as we strive to grow and to be grown, -[4071.40 --> 4074.06] even as we work to flex the muscle of faith, -[4074.40 --> 4079.16] I'm going to hold out for you as a promise the truth of Philippians 2. -[4079.98 --> 4080.42] Right? -[4080.50 --> 4080.84] We read, -[4080.84 --> 4095.96] So there is a call to do something. -[4096.60 --> 4099.06] Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, -[4099.18 --> 4105.08] for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purposes -[4105.08 --> 4107.68] in order to fill his good purpose. -[4107.68 --> 4111.48] If you look at the structure of the chapter here in Philippians 2, -[4111.92 --> 4116.44] on the good and sure confession and profession of who Jesus is, -[4116.70 --> 4118.34] right, who being in very nature God, -[4118.44 --> 4121.98] did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage. -[4122.40 --> 4126.16] Rather, he made himself nothing by taking on the very nature of a servant, -[4126.28 --> 4129.56] being made in human likeness and being found in appearance as a man. -[4129.80 --> 4132.44] He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death, -[4132.86 --> 4134.36] even death on the cross. -[4134.36 --> 4138.78] Therefore, God exalted him to the highest place -[4138.78 --> 4140.80] and gave him the name that is above every name, -[4140.88 --> 4143.18] that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow in heaven -[4143.18 --> 4144.62] and on earth and under the earth, -[4144.66 --> 4148.12] and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord -[4148.12 --> 4150.18] to the glory of God the Father. -[4150.32 --> 4153.86] On the sure foundation of who Jesus is, -[4154.86 --> 4158.36] on the truth that Jesus lived the life I should have lived, -[4158.44 --> 4160.32] that he died the death that I deserve, -[4160.38 --> 4163.10] and that three days later he was raised victorious, -[4163.10 --> 4165.68] on the truth that this same Jesus who was raised -[4165.68 --> 4169.42] appeared to the disciples for over a period of 40 days, -[4169.52 --> 4173.20] and that he rose and ascended to the right hand of the Father, -[4173.32 --> 4176.36] and that this same Jesus, along with the Father on Pentecost, -[4176.52 --> 4178.80] sent the Spirit now down to you. -[4178.98 --> 4183.20] On the sure promise of who Jesus is and what he has done, -[4183.36 --> 4184.78] he calls you to respond. -[4186.28 --> 4188.88] Work out your salvation with fear and trembling, -[4188.88 --> 4192.88] for it is God who works in you. -[4194.08 --> 4199.76] We are called to grow and to stretch and to flex the muscle of our faith. -[4200.06 --> 4201.66] And Peter says in his second letter, -[4201.98 --> 4203.26] to make every effort. -[4204.10 --> 4207.12] We are called to work and to run with perseverance. -[4207.62 --> 4210.26] We are called to be diligent in our pursuit of godliness. -[4210.52 --> 4211.88] And we do these things, -[4211.88 --> 4214.14] we are spurred forward in these things, -[4214.14 --> 4215.80] in the promise of God, -[4215.86 --> 4218.86] that it is God himself who works in you -[4218.86 --> 4222.98] to will and to act according to his good purpose. -[4224.68 --> 4225.74] Marjorie Thompson, -[4226.46 --> 4228.02] in her excellent little book, -[4228.86 --> 4231.74] which was actually first brought to my attention -[4231.74 --> 4234.40] by Rachel at a Bible study group that she was part of, -[4234.82 --> 4236.02] it's called Soul Feast. -[4236.78 --> 4237.46] She writes, -[4237.46 --> 4241.18] Christian spirituality begins with God, -[4241.86 --> 4242.96] depends on God, -[4243.36 --> 4244.96] and ends in God. -[4246.26 --> 4248.12] Flexing the faith muscle, -[4248.56 --> 4250.62] the life of holy habits, -[4251.02 --> 4253.50] is initiated and sustained by God -[4253.50 --> 4256.60] who lives within us and is beyond us. -[4256.94 --> 4260.28] The life of spiritual discipline is not a task, -[4260.28 --> 4260.96] and hear this, -[4261.20 --> 4262.56] of self-reformation. -[4263.02 --> 4265.08] This is not self-help. -[4265.08 --> 4270.64] And there's no easy DIY manual for this journey, -[4271.14 --> 4272.74] the book that we gave you notwithstanding. -[4273.50 --> 4275.00] But there is a path. -[4275.68 --> 4276.84] There are helps. -[4277.18 --> 4280.42] And there are a way that we can do this together. -[4281.90 --> 4283.98] I'm going to end this morning -[4283.98 --> 4287.06] with two final quick points. -[4287.06 --> 4289.58] First, -[4290.46 --> 4293.84] what we do with our time, -[4294.46 --> 4296.06] what we do with our resources, -[4296.28 --> 4297.68] what we do with our skills, -[4298.20 --> 4300.40] reveals to us -[4300.40 --> 4302.78] and to the people around us -[4302.78 --> 4304.06] what we love, -[4304.84 --> 4306.08] what we think is important. -[4307.90 --> 4308.42] Simultaneously, -[4308.76 --> 4310.16] and then also inversely, -[4310.64 --> 4312.72] the kinds of things that we love -[4312.72 --> 4314.76] will determine and will shape -[4314.76 --> 4316.46] how we use our time -[4316.46 --> 4317.54] and our resources -[4317.54 --> 4318.66] and our skills. -[4319.40 --> 4319.52] Right? -[4319.54 --> 4320.78] There's an interplay -[4320.78 --> 4321.86] between the two. -[4322.32 --> 4323.60] There's a back and forth -[4323.60 --> 4324.56] that happens. -[4326.26 --> 4327.64] My understanding on this -[4327.64 --> 4328.40] has been shaped -[4328.40 --> 4329.82] by a Christian philosopher -[4329.82 --> 4330.96] named Jamie Smith. -[4331.06 --> 4332.82] You've heard me quote him before. -[4333.68 --> 4334.64] And he says this. -[4334.68 --> 4336.30] This is a bit of a longer quote, -[4336.42 --> 4337.12] but it is good. -[4337.32 --> 4337.72] And so, -[4338.34 --> 4339.18] bear with me. -[4339.54 --> 4339.96] He says, -[4339.96 --> 4343.86] we have completely underestimated -[4343.86 --> 4345.18] the power of habit -[4345.18 --> 4347.46] and the deformative power -[4347.46 --> 4349.24] of cultural practices. -[4350.56 --> 4352.20] That's why I, Jamie, -[4352.44 --> 4353.66] call these practices -[4353.66 --> 4355.12] cultural liturgies -[4355.12 --> 4356.06] because they are -[4356.06 --> 4357.68] heart-shaping rituals -[4357.68 --> 4359.30] that actually shape -[4359.30 --> 4360.16] what we love. -[4361.24 --> 4363.10] But that's also why -[4363.10 --> 4364.60] the counter-formative, -[4365.06 --> 4366.10] reordering power -[4366.10 --> 4367.60] of the Spirit is necessary. -[4367.60 --> 4369.70] And that reformation -[4369.70 --> 4370.62] of the Spirit -[4370.62 --> 4372.02] happens in the gifts -[4372.02 --> 4372.74] of worship -[4372.74 --> 4373.64] He gives -[4373.64 --> 4374.78] in the body of Christ. -[4375.14 --> 4376.42] Regeneration by the Spirit -[4376.42 --> 4377.16] is what makes -[4377.16 --> 4378.68] any of this possible, -[4379.18 --> 4381.10] but it is the ongoing -[4381.10 --> 4382.54] rehabituation -[4382.54 --> 4383.96] of the Spirit -[4383.96 --> 4384.76] in worship, -[4385.24 --> 4386.34] in holy habits, -[4386.66 --> 4388.10] that re-centers us -[4388.10 --> 4388.96] in Christ -[4388.96 --> 4390.28] so that we can be sent -[4390.28 --> 4391.14] into the world -[4391.14 --> 4392.72] in ways that we can be -[4392.72 --> 4394.24] faithfully present, -[4394.54 --> 4395.88] as James Davison Hunter -[4395.88 --> 4396.32] puts it. -[4396.32 --> 4398.38] If we are only sent out -[4398.38 --> 4399.20] with a worldview, -[4399.46 --> 4399.74] that is, -[4399.78 --> 4400.36] if we only had -[4400.36 --> 4401.28] the right ideas, -[4401.88 --> 4402.82] we might be present -[4402.82 --> 4403.68] in our culture, -[4403.94 --> 4404.90] but our faith -[4404.90 --> 4406.14] is going to be eroded -[4406.14 --> 4408.74] by its deformative rituals. -[4410.02 --> 4412.38] What we do matters. -[4414.28 --> 4415.86] The holy habits of faith -[4415.86 --> 4419.58] are these counter-formative practices. -[4419.82 --> 4420.32] You can see it -[4420.32 --> 4422.42] in your booklet. -[4422.54 --> 4423.48] At the beginning of the -[4423.48 --> 4424.54] throughout the week section, -[4424.54 --> 4425.74] there is the same quote -[4425.74 --> 4427.90] given there every week -[4427.90 --> 4428.74] because it's important -[4428.74 --> 4430.12] to hear and remember. -[4430.28 --> 4430.74] It says, -[4431.68 --> 4432.38] spiritual disciplines -[4432.38 --> 4434.34] are counter-formative, -[4434.72 --> 4435.64] missional rhythms -[4435.64 --> 4436.46] of resistance -[4436.46 --> 4437.22] where communities -[4437.22 --> 4438.14] and individuals -[4438.14 --> 4439.36] over time -[4439.36 --> 4440.60] experience the love -[4440.60 --> 4441.20] of the Father, -[4441.60 --> 4442.26] the transformative -[4442.26 --> 4443.26] presence of Jesus, -[4443.42 --> 4444.06] and the power -[4444.06 --> 4444.98] of the Holy Spirit -[4444.98 --> 4446.04] for the purpose -[4446.04 --> 4447.16] of loving God -[4447.16 --> 4449.18] and neighbor. -[4450.92 --> 4451.94] That's why we are -[4451.94 --> 4452.52] doing this. -[4453.36 --> 4454.84] That's why this is important. -[4455.26 --> 4456.82] Because you are already -[4456.82 --> 4458.16] being shaped -[4458.16 --> 4459.48] in a certain direction. -[4460.90 --> 4461.92] Be shaped -[4461.92 --> 4463.98] for the glory of God. -[4464.12 --> 4464.74] Be shaped -[4464.74 --> 4465.44] in obedience -[4465.44 --> 4466.68] to Him. -[4467.46 --> 4467.96] And then finally, -[4468.06 --> 4469.88] this is the last point. -[4469.88 --> 4473.36] We heard it there. -[4474.24 --> 4474.92] For the purpose -[4474.92 --> 4475.90] of loving God -[4475.90 --> 4476.96] and neighbor. -[4478.14 --> 4479.52] The life of the disciple -[4479.52 --> 4480.62] of Jesus -[4480.62 --> 4481.96] is always -[4481.96 --> 4483.34] up and -[4483.34 --> 4484.08] out. -[4484.84 --> 4486.18] We journey in -[4486.18 --> 4487.42] for the journey out. -[4487.58 --> 4488.42] We gather -[4488.42 --> 4489.68] to scatter. -[4490.32 --> 4491.24] Or how we're going -[4491.24 --> 4491.76] to put it here -[4491.76 --> 4492.46] in this series, -[4493.14 --> 4494.38] holy habits -[4494.38 --> 4495.78] always have -[4495.78 --> 4497.08] an inward aspect -[4497.08 --> 4498.72] that is a personal -[4498.72 --> 4500.02] relationship to God -[4500.02 --> 4501.88] and an outward -[4501.88 --> 4502.94] aspect. -[4503.82 --> 4504.88] How that relationship -[4504.88 --> 4505.72] is lived -[4505.72 --> 4507.02] in and expressed -[4507.02 --> 4508.50] to or changes -[4508.50 --> 4510.12] your community, -[4510.62 --> 4511.62] your neighbor. -[4512.50 --> 4513.38] And this is important -[4513.38 --> 4514.86] because I think -[4514.86 --> 4515.84] too often -[4515.84 --> 4517.54] we make this mistake. -[4518.26 --> 4519.16] And we think -[4519.16 --> 4520.52] that spiritual disciplines, -[4521.00 --> 4521.92] that holy habits -[4521.92 --> 4523.48] are only about -[4523.48 --> 4524.70] cloistering -[4524.70 --> 4525.68] in your room -[4525.68 --> 4526.96] or in your small group -[4526.96 --> 4527.44] community, -[4527.58 --> 4528.60] about isolating -[4528.60 --> 4529.76] yourself from the world -[4529.76 --> 4531.68] and your impact -[4531.68 --> 4532.58] from your relationship -[4532.58 --> 4533.14] to God -[4533.14 --> 4534.14] and separating -[4534.14 --> 4534.80] the impact -[4534.80 --> 4535.42] of your relationship -[4535.42 --> 4535.94] to God -[4535.94 --> 4537.54] from your relationship -[4537.54 --> 4538.32] to your neighbor. -[4539.20 --> 4540.40] Spiritual disciplines, -[4540.92 --> 4541.60] holy habits, -[4541.76 --> 4542.78] developing the life -[4542.78 --> 4543.20] of faith, -[4543.52 --> 4544.58] learning how to flex -[4544.58 --> 4546.16] the muscle of faith -[4546.16 --> 4547.86] will always orient us -[4547.86 --> 4548.96] towards God, -[4549.34 --> 4549.58] right, -[4549.64 --> 4550.20] in relationship -[4550.20 --> 4550.68] with Him -[4550.68 --> 4552.60] and towards neighbor -[4552.60 --> 4554.32] in service of them. -[4555.42 --> 4556.30] There is an inward -[4556.30 --> 4557.30] relational aspect -[4557.30 --> 4558.32] and an outward -[4558.32 --> 4559.86] missional aspect -[4559.86 --> 4561.70] to neighbor. -[4562.66 --> 4563.72] Spiritual disciplines, -[4563.98 --> 4564.66] holy habits, -[4565.02 --> 4567.42] always will have both. -[4567.68 --> 4568.38] Or at least -[4568.38 --> 4570.46] good holy habits -[4570.46 --> 4571.16] and practicing -[4571.16 --> 4572.24] of good holy habits -[4572.24 --> 4574.20] will always include both. -[4574.34 --> 4575.28] And so then, -[4575.66 --> 4576.40] each week -[4576.40 --> 4578.78] as you practice -[4578.78 --> 4580.66] these disciplines, -[4581.14 --> 4582.36] you will be encouraged -[4582.36 --> 4583.80] and reminded -[4583.80 --> 4585.10] to think beyond -[4585.10 --> 4585.64] yourself. -[4586.68 --> 4588.08] Think about the community -[4588.08 --> 4589.08] around you -[4589.08 --> 4590.04] as you practice -[4590.04 --> 4591.66] these holy habits. -[4592.56 --> 4593.04] And here's -[4593.04 --> 4593.88] what I believe, -[4593.94 --> 4594.66] and I offer this -[4594.66 --> 4596.38] as a hopeful promise -[4596.38 --> 4596.72] to you. -[4597.82 --> 4598.94] I believe -[4598.94 --> 4600.74] that stories -[4600.74 --> 4601.96] of transformation -[4601.96 --> 4603.50] in you -[4603.50 --> 4605.22] fuel -[4605.22 --> 4606.56] transformation -[4606.56 --> 4607.82] in others. -[4607.82 --> 4609.94] So you, -[4610.14 --> 4611.08] telling stories -[4611.08 --> 4611.58] of how you -[4611.58 --> 4612.04] have seen -[4612.04 --> 4612.80] God at work -[4612.80 --> 4613.64] in your life -[4613.64 --> 4614.92] over a short period -[4614.92 --> 4615.84] or a long period -[4615.84 --> 4617.40] encourages others -[4617.40 --> 4618.50] and enables others -[4618.50 --> 4619.50] to see God -[4619.50 --> 4619.82] at work -[4619.82 --> 4620.24] in theirs. -[4621.46 --> 4621.60] Right? -[4621.74 --> 4622.74] Stories of transformation -[4622.74 --> 4623.90] in your life -[4623.90 --> 4624.96] fuel transformation -[4624.96 --> 4626.08] in others. -[4626.22 --> 4626.64] And so, -[4626.82 --> 4627.72] this week -[4627.72 --> 4629.30] and for the next five, -[4629.72 --> 4630.28] let's commit -[4630.28 --> 4631.16] to telling -[4631.16 --> 4632.06] these sorts -[4632.06 --> 4632.92] of stories -[4632.92 --> 4634.20] of our faith -[4634.20 --> 4634.68] at work -[4634.68 --> 4635.20] in the world. -[4635.68 --> 4635.92] Right? -[4635.92 --> 4636.96] Our faith growing -[4636.96 --> 4637.74] in relationship -[4637.74 --> 4638.32] to God -[4638.32 --> 4639.02] and neighbor. -[4639.14 --> 4640.04] Our faith struggling -[4640.04 --> 4641.04] and doubts -[4641.04 --> 4641.78] made real, -[4642.14 --> 4642.76] but our faith -[4642.76 --> 4644.10] lived and expressed -[4644.10 --> 4645.14] in community -[4645.14 --> 4646.28] that hears -[4646.28 --> 4647.40] and knows -[4647.40 --> 4647.80] and then -[4647.80 --> 4649.20] holds us up. -[4650.86 --> 4651.26] And so, -[4651.48 --> 4652.90] as a family -[4652.90 --> 4654.46] or in your small group -[4654.46 --> 4655.42] or as a group -[4655.42 --> 4656.18] of friends, -[4656.78 --> 4657.56] make a plan -[4657.56 --> 4658.34] together -[4658.34 --> 4660.00] to practice -[4660.00 --> 4660.88] this series -[4660.88 --> 4661.44] with us. -[4662.08 --> 4662.92] And then tell -[4662.92 --> 4663.38] each other -[4663.38 --> 4664.02] that plan. -[4664.72 --> 4665.28] Hold each other -[4665.28 --> 4665.76] accountable -[4665.76 --> 4666.44] in that plan. -[4666.74 --> 4668.24] Set up a text group -[4668.24 --> 4669.52] or a WhatsApp group -[4669.52 --> 4670.76] or a Facebook group. -[4670.84 --> 4671.18] I don't know -[4671.18 --> 4672.04] how Facebook works. -[4672.56 --> 4672.70] Right? -[4672.74 --> 4673.08] Where you could -[4673.08 --> 4674.90] tell people -[4674.90 --> 4675.74] this is what I'm doing -[4675.74 --> 4676.62] and get encouraged -[4676.62 --> 4676.94] in it. -[4676.96 --> 4677.46] Where you can hold -[4677.46 --> 4678.60] each other accountable. -[4678.90 --> 4679.68] Share what you're -[4679.68 --> 4680.60] reading in the Bible -[4680.60 --> 4681.78] and ask -[4681.78 --> 4682.56] what you can -[4682.56 --> 4683.56] receive -[4683.56 --> 4685.26] and pray over. -[4686.06 --> 4686.26] Right? -[4686.36 --> 4687.18] These are -[4687.18 --> 4688.84] your disciplines -[4688.84 --> 4690.96] but this is also -[4690.96 --> 4691.84] your community. -[4693.20 --> 4694.02] We do these -[4694.02 --> 4694.58] things together. -[4694.58 --> 4696.82] as we -[4696.82 --> 4698.32] start this -[4698.32 --> 4698.76] journey -[4698.76 --> 4699.74] together -[4699.74 --> 4701.84] I for one -[4701.84 --> 4703.12] am excited -[4703.12 --> 4703.64] to see what -[4703.64 --> 4704.12] God will do. -[4705.24 --> 4706.06] As we start -[4706.06 --> 4706.50] this journey -[4706.50 --> 4706.88] together -[4706.88 --> 4707.90] I also know -[4707.90 --> 4708.88] we need to start -[4708.88 --> 4709.24] in prayer. -[4710.04 --> 4710.42] And so will you -[4710.42 --> 4710.84] pray with me? -[4711.56 --> 4712.08] Let's pray. -[4712.08 --> 4718.60] Lord Jesus -[4718.60 --> 4719.66] as we -[4719.66 --> 4720.94] come to you -[4720.94 --> 4721.50] at the beginning -[4721.50 --> 4722.30] of this -[4722.30 --> 4722.76] journey -[4722.76 --> 4723.94] of growing -[4723.94 --> 4724.72] in holy -[4724.72 --> 4725.28] habits -[4725.28 --> 4726.40] we pray -[4726.40 --> 4727.02] that you -[4727.02 --> 4727.92] would be -[4727.92 --> 4728.72] at work -[4728.72 --> 4729.48] in us -[4729.48 --> 4730.88] and through us. -[4731.08 --> 4731.38] We pray -[4731.38 --> 4732.02] by the power -[4732.02 --> 4733.12] of your spirit -[4733.12 --> 4733.92] that we -[4733.92 --> 4734.42] would be -[4734.42 --> 4735.16] transformed. -[4735.86 --> 4736.24] Renew -[4736.24 --> 4737.00] our minds -[4737.00 --> 4737.74] change -[4737.74 --> 4739.14] our lives -[4739.14 --> 4740.30] grow our -[4740.30 --> 4741.20] faith -[4741.20 --> 4742.00] help us -[4742.00 --> 4742.60] Lord God -[4742.60 --> 4743.62] to grow -[4743.62 --> 4744.28] in the -[4744.28 --> 4744.98] capacity -[4744.98 --> 4746.20] of faith. -[4747.58 --> 4748.08] And as -[4748.08 --> 4748.82] we are -[4748.82 --> 4749.98] drawn -[4749.98 --> 4751.12] towards you -[4751.12 --> 4751.86] Lord God -[4751.86 --> 4752.64] may we also -[4752.64 --> 4753.30] be sent -[4753.30 --> 4753.78] out -[4753.78 --> 4754.56] to our -[4754.56 --> 4754.90] neighbors. -[4755.38 --> 4756.14] As our -[4756.14 --> 4756.62] relationship -[4756.62 --> 4757.28] to you -[4757.28 --> 4757.90] deepens -[4757.90 --> 4758.20] and is -[4758.20 --> 4758.56] strengthened -[4758.56 --> 4759.22] and grows -[4759.22 --> 4760.04] may our -[4760.04 --> 4760.62] mission -[4760.62 --> 4761.64] to our -[4761.64 --> 4762.00] neighbors -[4762.00 --> 4762.88] and the -[4762.88 --> 4763.66] people around -[4763.66 --> 4764.12] us -[4764.12 --> 4764.58] to our -[4764.58 --> 4765.28] communities -[4765.28 --> 4766.50] may that -[4766.50 --> 4766.78] be -[4766.78 --> 4767.46] deepened -[4767.46 --> 4767.90] and -[4767.90 --> 4768.38] strengthened. -[4769.24 --> 4770.04] Equip us -[4770.04 --> 4770.56] for this -[4770.56 --> 4770.82] journey -[4770.82 --> 4771.34] of faith. -[4771.48 --> 4771.56] We -[4771.56 --> 4772.68] Lord God -[4772.68 --> 4773.50] commit to -[4773.50 --> 4774.28] working out -[4774.28 --> 4775.24] our salvation -[4775.24 --> 4776.10] with fear -[4776.10 --> 4777.10] and trembling -[4777.10 --> 4777.86] here in -[4777.86 --> 4778.24] worship -[4778.24 --> 4778.68] and in -[4778.68 --> 4778.90] these -[4778.90 --> 4779.26] holy -[4779.26 --> 4779.98] habits -[4779.98 --> 4780.48] and we -[4780.48 --> 4781.14] trust -[4781.14 --> 4782.18] that you -[4782.18 --> 4783.18] will give -[4783.18 --> 4784.00] the growth. -[4784.62 --> 4784.88] And so -[4784.88 --> 4785.22] Lord God -[4785.22 --> 4785.88] give us -[4785.88 --> 4786.44] the growth -[4786.44 --> 4787.56] we pray -[4787.56 --> 4788.60] in Jesus -[4788.60 --> 4789.32] holy -[4789.32 --> 4790.24] name. -[4791.14 --> 4791.36] Amen. -[4795.28 --> 4801.74] Let's -[4801.74 --> 4802.26] rise and -[4802.26 --> 4802.62] sing with -[4802.62 --> 4803.06] us as -[4803.06 --> 4803.34] we -[4803.34 --> 4804.00] sing -[4804.00 --> 4804.26] Holy -[4804.26 --> 4804.60] Spirit. -[4804.60 --> 4804.72] Amen. -[4825.28 --> 4834.98] Holy -[4834.98 --> 4836.18] Spirit -[4836.18 --> 4837.02] living -[4837.02 --> 4838.22] breath -[4838.22 --> 4839.70] of God -[4839.70 --> 4840.62] renew -[4840.62 --> 4841.62] life -[4841.62 --> 4842.62] into -[4842.62 --> 4843.24] my -[4843.24 --> 4844.04] willing -[4844.04 --> 4845.80] soul -[4845.80 --> 4848.18] playing -[4848.18 --> 4849.00] the -[4849.00 --> 4849.72] presence -[4849.72 --> 4850.82] of the -[4850.82 --> 4851.74] risen -[4851.74 --> 4852.92] Lord -[4852.92 --> 4853.64] to -[4853.64 --> 4854.36] renew -[4854.36 --> 4855.76] my -[4855.76 --> 4856.32] heart -[4856.32 --> 4856.76] and -[4856.76 --> 4857.42] make -[4857.42 --> 4857.90] me -[4857.90 --> 4859.32] whole -[4859.32 --> 4861.88] cause -[4861.88 --> 4862.64] your -[4862.64 --> 4863.12] word -[4863.12 --> 4863.52] to -[4863.52 --> 4864.08] come -[4864.08 --> 4865.32] alive -[4865.32 --> 4866.08] in -[4866.08 --> 4867.30] me -[4867.30 --> 4868.66] give -[4868.66 --> 4869.30] me -[4869.30 --> 4869.94] faith -[4869.94 --> 4870.38] for -[4870.38 --> 4870.88] what -[4870.88 --> 4871.24] I -[4871.24 --> 4872.28] cannot -[4872.28 --> 4873.82] see -[4873.82 --> 4875.62] give -[4875.62 --> 4876.24] me -[4876.24 --> 4877.00] passion -[4877.00 --> 4877.70] for -[4877.70 --> 4878.10] your -[4878.10 --> 4879.96] purity -[4879.96 --> 4881.34] Holy -[4881.34 --> 4882.60] Spirit -[4882.60 --> 4883.80] breathe -[4883.80 --> 4884.24] new -[4884.24 --> 4885.04] life -[4885.04 --> 4885.50] in -[4885.50 --> 4886.96] me -[4886.96 --> 4889.68] Holy -[4889.68 --> 4891.06] Spirit -[4891.06 --> 4891.88] come -[4891.88 --> 4893.20] abide -[4893.20 --> 4894.14] with -[4894.14 --> 4894.64] it -[4894.64 --> 4895.36] may -[4895.36 --> 4895.84] your -[4895.84 --> 4896.68] joy -[4896.68 --> 4897.52] be -[4897.52 --> 4898.22] seen -[4898.22 --> 4898.68] in -[4898.68 --> 4899.34] all -[4899.34 --> 4899.88] I -[4899.88 --> 4901.18] do -[4901.18 --> 4904.08] love -[4904.08 --> 4905.28] enough -[4905.28 --> 4905.68] to -[4905.68 --> 4906.38] cover -[4906.38 --> 4907.84] every -[4907.84 --> 4908.92] sin -[4908.92 --> 4909.86] in -[4909.86 --> 4910.22] each -[4910.22 --> 4911.12] thought -[4911.12 --> 4912.02] and -[4912.02 --> 4912.46] need -[4912.46 --> 4912.96] and -[4912.96 --> 4914.16] attitude -[4914.16 --> 4918.30] kind -[4918.30 --> 4919.54] to -[4919.54 --> 4919.64] to -[4919.64 --> 4919.94] the -[4919.94 --> 4920.84] greatest -[4920.84 --> 4921.78] and -[4921.78 --> 4922.68] the -[4922.68 --> 4923.82] least -[4923.82 --> 4926.26] gentleness -[4926.26 --> 4927.00] that -[4927.00 --> 4927.46] slows -[4927.46 --> 4927.90] the -[4927.90 --> 4928.82] path -[4928.82 --> 4929.64] of -[4929.64 --> 4930.74] peace -[4930.74 --> 4932.34] turn -[4932.34 --> 4933.12] my -[4933.12 --> 4934.26] strivings -[4934.26 --> 4934.68] into -[4934.68 --> 4935.92] words -[4935.92 --> 4936.66] of -[4936.66 --> 4937.24] grace -[4937.24 --> 4938.10] breath -[4938.10 --> 4939.34] of God -[4939.34 --> 4939.86] show -[4939.86 --> 4940.70] Christ -[4940.70 --> 4941.22] in -[4941.22 --> 4941.86] all -[4941.86 --> 4942.46] I -[4942.46 --> 4943.36] do -[4943.36 --> 4946.70] holy -[4946.70 --> 4948.06] spirit -[4948.06 --> 4948.74] from -[4948.74 --> 4951.10] creation's -[4951.10 --> 4951.56] birth -[4951.56 --> 4952.52] giving -[4952.52 --> 4953.62] life -[4953.62 --> 4954.22] to -[4954.22 --> 4955.02] all -[4955.02 --> 4955.50] that -[4955.50 --> 4956.26] God -[4956.26 --> 4956.84] has -[4956.84 --> 4958.60] made -[4958.60 --> 4960.44] show -[4960.44 --> 4961.62] your -[4961.62 --> 4962.36] power -[4962.36 --> 4963.12] once -[4963.12 --> 4964.44] again -[4964.44 --> 4965.36] on -[4965.36 --> 4965.80] earth -[4965.80 --> 4966.68] cause -[4966.68 --> 4967.08] your -[4967.08 --> 4967.88] church -[4967.88 --> 4968.36] to -[4968.36 --> 4969.32] hunger -[4969.32 --> 4970.28] for -[4970.28 --> 4970.86] your -[4970.86 --> 4973.36] wings -[4973.36 --> 4974.98] let -[4974.98 --> 4975.76] the -[4975.76 --> 4976.68] fragrance -[4976.68 --> 4977.24] of -[4977.24 --> 4977.60] our -[4977.60 --> 4978.56] prayers -[4978.56 --> 4980.66] arise -[4980.66 --> 4982.10] lead -[4982.10 --> 4982.98] us -[4982.98 --> 4983.42] on -[4983.42 --> 4983.84] the -[4983.84 --> 4984.30] road -[4984.30 --> 4984.70] of -[4984.70 --> 4986.56] sacrifice -[4986.56 --> 4988.56] that -[4988.56 --> 4990.04] in -[4990.04 --> 4990.96] unity -[4990.96 --> 4991.78] the -[4991.78 --> 4992.70] grace -[4992.70 --> 4993.48] of -[4993.48 --> 4994.06] Christ -[4994.06 --> 4994.94] may -[4994.94 --> 4995.32] be -[4995.32 --> 4996.10] clear -[4996.10 --> 4996.96] for -[4996.96 --> 4997.54] all -[4997.54 --> 4997.98] the -[4997.98 --> 4998.62] world -[4998.62 --> 4999.10] to -[4999.10 --> 4999.70] see -[4999.70 --> 5002.70] let -[5002.70 --> 5003.80] the -[5003.80 --> 5004.76] fragrance -[5004.76 --> 5005.58] of -[5005.58 --> 5005.94] our -[5005.94 --> 5006.92] prayers -[5006.92 --> 5009.00] arise -[5009.00 --> 5010.46] lead -[5010.46 --> 5011.30] us -[5011.30 --> 5011.72] on -[5011.72 --> 5012.16] the -[5012.16 --> 5012.64] road -[5012.64 --> 5013.02] of -[5013.02 --> 5015.18] sacrifice -[5015.18 --> 5017.54] that -[5017.54 --> 5018.40] in -[5018.40 --> 5019.32] unity -[5019.32 --> 5020.20] the -[5020.20 --> 5021.10] face -[5021.10 --> 5021.90] of -[5021.90 --> 5022.50] Christ -[5022.50 --> 5023.42] may -[5023.42 --> 5023.84] be -[5023.84 --> 5024.68] clear -[5024.68 --> 5025.24] for -[5025.24 --> 5026.22] all -[5026.22 --> 5026.72] the -[5026.72 --> 5027.44] world -[5027.44 --> 5028.04] to -[5028.04 --> 5028.52] see -[5028.52 --> 5038.74] this -[5038.74 --> 5039.14] week -[5039.14 --> 5039.34] know -[5039.34 --> 5039.52] that -[5039.52 --> 5039.78] God -[5039.78 --> 5040.36] himself -[5040.36 --> 5041.06] goes -[5041.06 --> 5041.60] with -[5041.60 --> 5041.80] you -[5041.80 --> 5042.14] go -[5042.14 --> 5042.52] also -[5042.52 --> 5042.90] with -[5042.90 --> 5043.26] two -[5043.26 --> 5043.98] invitations -[5043.98 --> 5044.56] one -[5044.56 --> 5045.40] following -[5045.40 --> 5045.94] worship -[5045.94 --> 5046.68] we have -[5046.68 --> 5047.36] fellowship -[5047.36 --> 5048.06] and coffee -[5048.06 --> 5048.52] together -[5048.52 --> 5050.18] know -[5050.18 --> 5050.46] that -[5050.46 --> 5050.74] I -[5050.74 --> 5051.00] made -[5051.00 --> 5051.16] the -[5051.16 --> 5051.44] coffee -[5051.44 --> 5051.68] this -[5051.68 --> 5051.96] morning -[5051.96 --> 5052.52] so -[5052.52 --> 5052.68] if -[5052.68 --> 5052.82] it's -[5052.82 --> 5053.12] awful -[5053.12 --> 5053.44] you -[5053.44 --> 5053.56] have -[5053.56 --> 5053.70] no -[5053.70 --> 5053.80] one -[5053.80 --> 5053.90] to -[5053.90 --> 5054.08] blame -[5054.08 --> 5054.24] but -[5054.24 --> 5054.44] me -[5054.44 --> 5055.48] I -[5055.48 --> 5055.64] can -[5055.64 --> 5055.90] handle -[5055.90 --> 5056.18] it -[5056.18 --> 5057.08] send -[5057.08 --> 5057.18] it -[5057.18 --> 5057.30] to -[5057.30 --> 5057.50] me -[5057.50 --> 5059.06] if -[5059.06 --> 5059.16] it -[5059.16 --> 5059.34] is -[5059.34 --> 5059.64] awful -[5059.64 --> 5060.00] however -[5060.00 --> 5061.12] you -[5061.12 --> 5061.26] can -[5061.26 --> 5061.40] make -[5061.40 --> 5061.48] it -[5061.48 --> 5061.66] next -[5061.66 --> 5061.82] week -[5061.82 --> 5062.04] because -[5062.04 --> 5062.16] we -[5062.16 --> 5062.26] don't -[5062.26 --> 5062.38] have -[5062.38 --> 5062.56] anyone -[5062.56 --> 5062.80] signed -[5062.80 --> 5062.92] up -[5062.92 --> 5063.02] for -[5063.02 --> 5063.22] next -[5063.22 --> 5063.44] week -[5063.44 --> 5064.32] so -[5064.32 --> 5064.70] if -[5064.70 --> 5064.88] you're -[5064.88 --> 5065.02] able -[5065.02 --> 5065.16] to -[5065.16 --> 5065.30] do -[5065.30 --> 5065.54] that -[5065.54 --> 5066.14] that -[5066.14 --> 5066.24] would -[5066.24 --> 5066.34] be -[5066.34 --> 5066.52] great -[5066.52 --> 5066.76] also -[5066.76 --> 5066.90] if -[5066.90 --> 5067.00] you're -[5067.00 --> 5067.14] able -[5067.14 --> 5067.26] to -[5067.26 --> 5067.42] help -[5067.42 --> 5067.56] with -[5067.56 --> 5067.68] the -[5067.68 --> 5068.04] service -[5068.04 --> 5068.26] of -[5068.26 --> 5068.56] coffee -[5068.56 --> 5068.72] and -[5068.72 --> 5068.84] the -[5068.84 --> 5069.06] cleanup -[5069.06 --> 5069.54] today -[5069.54 --> 5070.00] that -[5070.00 --> 5070.10] would -[5070.10 --> 5070.32] also -[5070.32 --> 5070.50] be -[5070.50 --> 5070.74] great -[5070.74 --> 5071.36] thank -[5071.36 --> 5071.50] you -[5071.50 --> 5071.62] in -[5071.62 --> 5071.92] advance -[5071.92 --> 5072.12] for -[5072.12 --> 5072.32] that -[5072.32 --> 5073.36] second -[5073.36 --> 5073.90] invitation -[5073.90 --> 5074.32] please -[5074.32 --> 5074.72] remember -[5074.72 --> 5075.26] to -[5075.26 --> 5075.74] join -[5075.74 --> 5076.00] us -[5076.00 --> 5076.24] on -[5076.24 --> 5076.60] Wednesday -[5076.60 --> 5077.00] night -[5077.00 --> 5077.80] at -[5077.80 --> 5078.02] seven -[5078.02 --> 5078.40] o'clock -[5078.40 --> 5078.82] here -[5078.82 --> 5079.78] so -[5079.78 --> 5079.96] that -[5079.96 --> 5080.12] we -[5080.12 --> 5080.48] can -[5080.48 --> 5081.00] pray -[5081.00 --> 5081.58] in -[5081.58 --> 5081.98] urgency -[5081.98 --> 5082.34] and -[5082.34 --> 5082.90] expectation -[5082.90 --> 5083.40] for -[5083.40 --> 5083.56] our -[5083.56 --> 5083.84] God -[5083.84 --> 5084.34] over -[5084.34 --> 5084.54] the -[5084.54 --> 5084.84] many -[5084.84 --> 5085.70] situations -[5085.70 --> 5086.12] and -[5086.12 --> 5086.64] circumstances -[5086.64 --> 5087.00] that -[5087.00 --> 5087.24] we -[5087.24 --> 5087.44] are -[5087.44 --> 5087.94] facing -[5087.94 --> 5088.54] in -[5088.54 --> 5088.88] life -[5088.88 --> 5089.50] together -[5089.50 --> 5090.66] our -[5090.66 --> 5090.88] good -[5090.88 --> 5091.14] God -[5091.14 --> 5091.44] goes -[5091.44 --> 5091.70] with -[5091.70 --> 5092.08] us -[5092.08 --> 5092.66] and -[5092.66 --> 5092.80] so -[5092.80 --> 5093.14] receive -[5093.14 --> 5093.32] his -[5093.32 --> 5093.64] blessing -[5093.64 --> 5095.80] God -[5095.80 --> 5095.96] go -[5095.96 --> 5096.30] before -[5096.30 --> 5096.56] you -[5096.56 --> 5097.52] to -[5097.52 --> 5097.76] guide -[5097.76 --> 5098.04] you -[5098.04 --> 5098.92] God -[5098.92 --> 5099.10] go -[5099.10 --> 5099.46] behind -[5099.46 --> 5099.84] you -[5099.84 --> 5100.24] to -[5100.24 --> 5100.54] guard -[5100.54 --> 5100.70] you -[5100.70 --> 5101.02] God -[5101.02 --> 5101.22] go -[5101.22 --> 5101.60] beneath -[5101.60 --> 5101.96] you -[5101.96 --> 5102.34] to -[5102.34 --> 5102.72] support -[5102.72 --> 5102.98] you -[5102.98 --> 5103.24] and -[5103.24 --> 5103.54] God -[5103.54 --> 5103.76] go -[5103.76 --> 5104.30] beside -[5104.30 --> 5104.64] you -[5104.64 --> 5105.06] to -[5105.06 --> 5105.46] befriend -[5105.46 --> 5105.74] you -[5105.74 --> 5106.16] do -[5106.16 --> 5106.52] not -[5106.52 --> 5107.20] be -[5107.20 --> 5108.00] afraid -[5108.00 --> 5108.96] let -[5108.96 --> 5109.08] the -[5109.08 --> 5109.36] blessing -[5109.36 --> 5109.56] of -[5109.56 --> 5109.76] God -[5109.76 --> 5109.96] come -[5109.96 --> 5110.20] upon -[5110.20 --> 5110.34] you -[5110.34 --> 5110.58] today -[5110.58 --> 5110.82] do -[5110.82 --> 5111.20] not -[5111.20 --> 5111.84] be -[5111.84 --> 5112.42] afraid -[5112.42 --> 5112.86] but -[5112.86 --> 5113.22] go -[5113.22 --> 5113.60] in -[5113.60 --> 5114.06] peace -[5114.06 --> 5114.38] to -[5114.38 --> 5114.82] love -[5114.82 --> 5115.38] and -[5115.38 --> 5115.92] serve -[5115.92 --> 5116.46] the -[5116.46 --> 5116.72] Lord -[5116.72 --> 5118.38] Amen -[5126.56 --> 5135.72] praise -[5135.72 --> 5139.94] you -[5140.94 --> 5141.66] demon -[5141.66 --> 5142.24] you -[5142.24 --> 5146.02] you -[5146.02 --> 5146.30] ascend -[5146.30 --> 5148.58] and -[5148.58 --> 5149.98] new -[5149.98 --> 5150.96] you -[5150.96 --> 5151.58] gather -[5151.58 --> 5151.98] the -[5151.98 --> 5152.82] nations -[5152.82 --> 5157.06] before you and the eyes of all men -[5157.06 --> 5162.30] within is on the Lamb who was crucified -[5162.30 --> 5167.24] with wisdom and mercy and justice -[5167.24 --> 5172.40] you'll reign at your other side -[5172.40 --> 5175.06] and the angels will write -[5175.06 --> 5178.64] Hail the Lamb -[5178.64 --> 5183.48] Who was slain for the world -[5183.48 --> 5187.22] You'll end up -[5187.22 --> 5191.86] And the earth will reply -[5191.86 --> 5197.12] You shall reign -[5197.12 --> 5200.40] As the King of all kings -[5200.40 --> 5202.56] and the Lord of all kings -[5202.56 --> 5213.44] There's a shield in our hand -[5213.44 --> 5215.64] and a sword at our side -[5215.64 --> 5218.04] There's a fire in our spirits -[5218.04 --> 5219.86] that cannot be denied -[5219.86 --> 5222.50] As the Father has told us -[5222.50 --> 5224.40] what made you in the light -[5224.40 --> 5228.14] for the nation to gather before you -[5228.14 --> 5231.12] And the ears of all men -[5231.12 --> 5233.38] meet to hear of the Lamb -[5233.38 --> 5236.38] who was crucified -[5236.38 --> 5239.96] Who descended to hell -[5239.96 --> 5242.22] yet was raised up to reign -[5242.22 --> 5246.52] at His Father's side -[5246.52 --> 5249.08] And the angels will cry -[5249.08 --> 5253.90] Hail the Lamb -[5253.90 --> 5257.66] Who was slain for the world -[5257.66 --> 5263.04] Foo in Christ -[5263.04 --> 5265.90] And the earth will reply -[5265.90 --> 5271.02] You shall reign -[5271.02 --> 5274.66] As the King of all kings -[5274.66 --> 5276.92] And the Lord of all kings -[5276.92 --> 5279.10] And the angels will cry -[5279.10 --> 5284.16] Hail the Lamb -[5284.16 --> 5287.74] Who was slain for the world -[5287.74 --> 5293.74] Who will rule in Christ -[5293.74 --> 5295.74] And the earth will reply -[5295.74 --> 5299.74] You shall reign -[5299.74 --> 5304.82] As the King of all kings -[5304.82 --> 5307.26] And the Lord of all lords -[5307.26 --> 5309.42] As the King of all kings -[5309.42 --> 5313.74] And the Lord of all lords -[5313.74 --> 5343.72] And the Lord of all kings -[5343.72 --> 5345.28] And the Lord of all kings -[5345.28 --> 5370.82] Who ville— -[5370.82 --> 5400.80] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 11, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 11, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 736bfd9ac452b3603071fc70e9787cd07de4585a..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 11, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,134 +0,0 @@ -• Cascade Family Bible Camp -• Christian Reformed Church -• Aaron's involvement with the camp -• Programs for various age groups (preschool, elementary, middle school, high school, adults) -• Activities (games, rocket launching, rocket building) -• Location in Washington, D.C. -• History of the camp (50 years old) -• Upcoming event (July 6-10) -• Promo code for Canadians and first-time attendees -• Upcoming Bible study at a private residence with lunch and tea -• Women's Fellowship Group event on June 20th in the church courtyard -• Wedding showers for Jane and Kristen -• Inviting them to join the church community -• Casual gathering, no games -• Welcome new members, especially Jane and Kristen -• Continuing with Pastors' Class after worship service -• Upcoming youth barbecue at Van Hemerts' -• End of year celebration for youth -• Reading of Ezra 3, describing the foundation laying of the temple -• Song and worship, with lyrics and musical elements mentioned -• Themes of praise, thanksgiving, and devotion to God -• References to God's holiness, power, and love -• Assurance that God is always present and active in the world -• Prayer for trust in God's power and glory -• Confession of sin and request for restoration -• Request for peace, forgiveness, and a steadfast spirit -• Assurance of God's presence and protection -• Recitation of the Lord's Day question and answer 52 -• Comfort in Christ's return to judge the living and the dead -• Music and prayer with repetition of "It is well" and "He is well with my soul" -• Introduction by Clem, deacon at Emmanuel, about church offerings -• Information about Open Doors Canada and their work supporting persecuted Christians -• Bible quote from Romans 8:35-37 -• Invitation to give according to blessings -• Children's worship time introduction and discussion of the "Fruits of the Spirit" theme -• The speaker is summarizing the fruits of the Spirit from Galatians -• Discussion about which fruit each person would compare to a given fruit of the Spirit (love, patience, peace) -• Kindness is compared to various fruits, including watermelon because it's typically shared with others -• The group transitions into a blessing and prayer time, led by the speaker -• Introduction to a church gathering -• Review of the full council meeting - • Implementation of new safe church policy - • Approval of 2022 financial statements - • Upcoming annual general meeting on June 22nd -• Reports from pastors on their work and relationships -• Update on Wes Chepkima's surgery -• Church family prayer, including confession and petition for guidance and support -• The speaker requests prayer and blessings from God on various topics including mental health struggles, personal brokenness, mourning of loved ones, and the well-being of the world. -• They ask for mercy and healing for the world's suffering through wars, famines, and injustice. -• They express gratitude for their church and denomination, and pray for guidance and wisdom for church leaders. -• The speaker thanks God for new members and interests in the church, asking that they feel connected and guided to utilize their gifts. -• They invite listeners to focus on hearing and seeing God's word through Pastor Chris' sermon, using Romans 8 as a guide. -• The speaker notes some personal comments about fruit left at the front of the room and transitions to reading from Romans 8:18-27. -• The speaker discusses the verse from Romans 8:18, which compares present sufferings to future glory. -• The speaker shares their own struggles with understanding and preaching this verse, citing its beauty and power. -• The verse is often trivialized or used in a cheesy way, making it unhelpful to those suffering. -• The speaker emphasizes that present sufferings are real and valid, but the verse encourages believers to look beyond them to future glory. -• A thought experiment is proposed, where listeners imagine and confront their current suffering as a means of focusing on future glory. -• Using a conversational tone, the speaker guides the listener to imagine and confront their current suffering. -• The speaker asks the listener to picture their suffering as an object or concept (e.g., ocean, box, list, face) and hold it in their mind. -• The speaker notes that even if the suffering feels infinite, there are edges and limits to it. -• The speaker acknowledges that when one is in the midst of suffering, they may not be able to see those limits. -• The speaker reassures the listener that despite feeling like the suffering has no end, help is available. -• Christians believe God is the only infinite being -• Present sufferings are not the end of one's story -• God invites people to Himself, allowing them to see His infinity -• Glory will be revealed in those who persevere through suffering -• The glory of God is the manifest beauty of His holiness -• The glory of God is His infinite worth and value -• Jonathan Edwards' definition of the glory of God as the communication of God's fullness to humanity -• Glory is what is seen when God reveals Himself -• Comparison between present sufferings and future glory, with the latter being incomparable -• Revelation 21 describes the future reality where God dwells among people and can be seen -• Paul argues in Romans 8 that creation itself is waiting for the day when God's dwelling place will be among His people and creation will be restored to its original design and intent. -• Creation was subjected to frustration not by its own choice, but by the will of God, who hopes it will be liberated from bondage to decay and brought into freedom and glory as the children of God. -• The theological argument in Romans is that humanity fell into sin when Adam and Eve rebelled against God, resulting in all descendants being impacted by sin, affecting every area of life. -• Creation reflects this frustration because humanity, as the crown of creation, rebelled against God and is now affected by sin, so too is everything that flows from humanity. -• Creation is a symbol of human frustration in the world -• The current state of creation reflects the reality of a broken world, but also holds out hope for a new creation -• The natural world is experiencing frustration through wildfires, droughts, and flooding -• Climate change disproportionately affects marginalized communities -• Biodiversity rates are dropping due to human activity -• The universe is in bondage to decay, as described by the second law of thermodynamics -• Frustration and decay in the current world -• Creation's liberation and restoration -• Finding beauty amidst suffering -• God's glory and presence bringing joy -• Restoration of creation and the universe -• Christians living in hope of this restoration and being motivated to live accordingly -• Overcoming fear of climate change with faith -• The speaker discusses God's promise to renew the world and humanity's role in caring for it despite human sin. -• Creation is subject to frustration due to human sin, but this does not negate God's plan for renewal. -• Paul's metaphor of creation groaning continues with a comparison of three instances of groaning: the whole creation, believers awaiting adoption, and the Spirit interceding with wordless groans. -• The speaker explains that all groaning is meant to help believers endure present struggles by capturing a vision of future glory. -• The pain of childbirth is worth it due to the joy and glory of holding one's child. -• Human history shows that most women who have given birth have done so more than once, indicating that the experience is worth it despite its difficulty. -• Similarly, people endure present sufferings with hope for a better future, but this hope must be in something unseen. -• The world around us can be seen as a picture of what is to come, and even though it may be imperfect or frustrating, it gives us a glimpse into the future. -• Our longing for a day when things will be made new (as promised by God) is evidence that this hope is real. -• The Spirit intercedes for us through wordless groans, even when we don't know what to pray for. -• God gives us his Spirit to help us endure our present sufferings. -• The Spirit's presence is evident in times of great difficulty and struggle. -• Even in the midst of overwhelming challenges, God walks with us and causes us to endure through the Spirit. -• God's will is to reveal His glory, and the Spirit intercedes for us in accordance with that will. -• A person's recent passing is remembered with the quote "all our best days lie ahead of us" from Tim Keller. -• The present sufferings are not worth comparing to the future glory that will be revealed, according to 2 Corinthians 4:17. -• The gathering at the table is a time for strengthening and nourishment until the day when all painful days will lie behind. -• The liturgy for coming to the table is led by the speaker, inviting everyone to join in prayer and giving thanks. -• The Lord's Supper is commemorated with bread and cup, recalling Jesus' sacrifice and new covenant in his blood. -• Those present are invited to come to the table regardless of their faith or attendance history. -• Introduction to the Lord's Supper and invitation to participate -• Explanation of how to partake in the Lord's Supper at this church -• Invitation for those helping with the service to come forward -• Mention of prayer support and meeting with individuals in the foyer -• Provision of gluten-free bread for attendees who need it -• Expression of gratitude from various speakers throughout the service -• The glory and power of the cross -• Christ becoming sin for humanity's sake -• The pain and weight of sin on Jesus' face -• Redemption through the cross -• Victory over death, sin, and fear -• God's love and mercy reaching out to humanity -• Salvation and forgiveness at the cross -• The power of Jesus Christ and the blood of the Lamb -• Hope and redemption through Jesus -• God's love, light, and strength -• The sacrifice and resurrection of Jesus Christ -• Assurance of eternal life through the Holy Spirit -• Belonging to God and being His possession -• Trust in God's presence and protection throughout life -• Identity and ownership -• Belonging to God, specifically Christ -• Surrender of self to God's control -• Repetition of phrases emphasizing surrender to God \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 11, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 11, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 9d9cbcca2cf5301c3c54e58677aaab76917887fa..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 11, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2548 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.00] Oh, a flat, yes. -[3.00 --> 7.00] That's what it's supposed to be. I totally missed that because I didn't say it. -[7.00 --> 9.00] That's what I thought it was? -[9.00 --> 11.00] Yeah, you're absolutely right. That's what it's supposed to be. -[13.00 --> 15.00] Why do you say that? I don't. -[15.00 --> 16.00] I do. -[30.00 --> 32.00] I do. -[60.00 --> 62.00] I do. -[90.00 --> 104.00] I do. -[104.00 --> 106.00] I do. -[106.00 --> 135.98] Thank you. -[136.00 --> 165.98] Thank you. -[166.00 --> 195.98] Thank you. -[196.00 --> 225.98] Thank you. -[226.00 --> 255.98] Thank you. -[256.00 --> 258.00] Thank you. -[286.00 --> 288.00] Thank you. -[316.00 --> 318.00] Thank you. -[346.00 --> 348.00] Thank you. -[348.00 --> 350.00] Thank you. -[350.00 --> 352.00] Thank you. -[352.00 --> 354.00] Thank you. -[354.00 --> 356.00] Thank you. -[384.00 --> 386.00] Thank you. -[386.00 --> 388.00] Thank you. -[416.00 --> 418.00] Thank you. -[446.00 --> 448.00] Thank you. -[448.00 --> 450.00] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 452.00] Thank you. -[452.00 --> 454.00] Thank you. -[482.00 --> 484.00] Thank you. -[484.00 --> 486.00] Thank you. -[486.00 --> 488.00] Thank you. -[488.00 --> 490.00] Thank you. -[490.00 --> 492.00] God, -[492.00 --> 494.00] God, -[494.00 --> 496.00] God. -[496.00 --> 498.00] God, -[498.00 --> 500.00] I have -[500.00 --> 505.66] surrender -[505.66 --> 514.34] May this offering stretch across the sky -[514.34 --> 518.38] Peace, hallelujah -[518.38 --> 530.06] Good, good, good morning everyone -[530.06 --> 536.14] That video you just saw was a video of Cascade Family Bible Camp -[536.14 --> 539.86] Which is a camp that's held down in Washington, D.C. -[539.90 --> 542.44] About an hour north, right, of Seattle-ish -[542.44 --> 547.92] Anyways, Aaron's like in charge of that camp basically -[547.92 --> 549.06] So I'm going to pass him the microphone -[549.06 --> 550.66] He's going to explain it to you better than I will -[550.66 --> 553.18] Okay, good morning -[553.18 --> 555.08] Is it working? Okay, okay -[555.08 --> 558.22] Yeah, Cascade Family Bible Camp -[558.22 --> 561.96] It's a camp that was put on by the Christian Reformed Church -[561.96 --> 563.62] About 50 years now -[563.62 --> 566.02] And it's pretty awesome -[566.02 --> 568.64] So you have, there's a speaker -[568.64 --> 571.32] There's programs for kids -[571.32 --> 572.52] I like to call it -[572.52 --> 576.32] Like Vacation Bible School on steroids -[576.32 --> 577.42] So you have -[577.42 --> 579.88] You have preschool age -[579.88 --> 581.90] There's programs for preschool age -[581.90 --> 583.56] There's programs for middle school -[583.56 --> 586.14] High school, elementary, and then adults -[586.14 --> 588.40] And there's games -[588.40 --> 589.88] There's rocket launching -[589.88 --> 590.98] There's rocket building -[590.98 --> 593.74] There's anything you could possibly think of -[593.74 --> 596.02] It's on July this year -[596.02 --> 598.68] Kevin will be the youth leader this year -[598.68 --> 601.72] And so from July -[601.72 --> 603.86] It's July 6 through 10 -[603.86 --> 604.60] I think -[604.60 --> 605.54] 7 through 10 -[605.54 --> 609.18] Love to see more people here -[609.18 --> 609.78] When I was -[609.78 --> 611.50] I've been going to the camp for 30 years -[611.50 --> 614.36] And I started when I was like 12 years old -[614.36 --> 615.24] Or something like that -[615.24 --> 617.94] And there used to be a lot of Canadians -[617.94 --> 618.72] That showed up -[618.72 --> 619.48] A lot -[619.48 --> 621.80] And now there's not so many Canadians -[621.80 --> 622.36] That showed up -[622.36 --> 623.76] And I love it -[623.76 --> 625.66] Ken went a couple years ago -[625.66 --> 626.98] Actually it's probably been -[626.98 --> 628.76] A long time ago actually -[628.76 --> 629.26] 10 years -[629.26 --> 630.96] And so I -[630.96 --> 632.30] If you have any questions -[632.30 --> 633.40] Come talk to me -[633.40 --> 634.92] I'd love to -[634.92 --> 637.40] Tell you a little bit more about it -[637.40 --> 638.52] It'd be cool to get -[638.52 --> 640.30] A bunch of people from church to come -[640.30 --> 641.50] And -[641.50 --> 642.46] It's a lot of fun -[642.46 --> 643.60] My kids actually -[643.60 --> 644.80] One year -[644.80 --> 647.06] My wife and kids were going to leave -[647.06 --> 648.42] And go to the Netherlands -[648.42 --> 650.88] And they wanted to stay at camp longer -[650.88 --> 651.66] And go -[651.66 --> 652.70] Move their ticket -[652.70 --> 653.26] So they could -[653.26 --> 654.70] Spend less time in the Netherlands -[654.70 --> 655.76] To stay at camp longer -[655.76 --> 656.18] So -[656.18 --> 658.10] I said that's not possible -[658.10 --> 658.44] So -[658.44 --> 658.92] Yeah -[658.92 --> 660.92] And I believe -[660.92 --> 661.58] For Canadians -[661.58 --> 662.70] If it's first time going -[662.70 --> 663.52] There's a promo code -[663.52 --> 664.10] When you register -[664.10 --> 664.76] You save like -[664.76 --> 665.92] 25% -[665.92 --> 667.04] If you're the first time goer -[667.04 --> 668.14] If you're Canadian -[668.14 --> 669.76] And a first time goer -[669.76 --> 670.38] It's like -[670.38 --> 671.86] 45% -[671.86 --> 672.64] Or 40% -[672.64 --> 673.46] So it's a good year -[673.46 --> 674.14] To sign up -[674.14 --> 674.94] Like you said Aaron -[674.94 --> 675.68] We'll hopefully camp -[675.68 --> 676.66] In a clump together too -[676.66 --> 676.94] So -[676.94 --> 678.16] Let us know -[678.16 --> 679.16] If you're planning on coming -[679.16 --> 680.38] We'll group together -[680.38 --> 681.02] It'll be very fun -[681.02 --> 681.92] So -[681.92 --> 682.60] There you go -[682.60 --> 684.94] That one can stay there -[684.94 --> 689.52] Alright -[689.52 --> 690.74] I also want to say -[690.74 --> 691.22] Good morning -[691.22 --> 694.32] Yeah -[694.32 --> 695.16] We'll let that slide -[695.16 --> 695.62] This morning -[695.62 --> 696.38] That's alright -[696.38 --> 697.76] Welcome to worship -[697.76 --> 698.72] If you are here -[698.72 --> 699.62] Visiting with us -[699.62 --> 701.16] Or if you're still filing in -[701.16 --> 702.20] We're really excited -[702.20 --> 703.80] That you are here -[703.80 --> 704.56] My name is Chris -[704.56 --> 706.34] I'm one of the pastors here -[706.34 --> 707.84] And it's my privilege -[707.84 --> 709.08] Along with these others -[709.08 --> 710.06] To lead us -[710.06 --> 711.58] In our shared worship together -[711.58 --> 713.14] Later on in our service -[713.14 --> 713.84] As you see -[713.84 --> 714.52] We're going to come -[714.52 --> 715.52] To the Lord's table -[715.52 --> 716.32] And so you can -[716.32 --> 717.40] Throughout -[717.40 --> 718.96] Be preparing your heart -[718.96 --> 719.70] For that -[719.70 --> 722.54] And as we come later -[722.54 --> 723.38] We will give some more -[723.38 --> 724.60] Instructions on that -[724.60 --> 725.68] Before we begin -[725.68 --> 726.42] There are a couple -[726.42 --> 727.58] Other announcements -[727.58 --> 728.24] To make -[728.24 --> 728.84] And so I'm going to -[728.84 --> 729.44] Invite Wendy -[729.44 --> 730.42] To come up to the front -[730.42 --> 731.26] And Josh -[731.26 --> 733.16] And grab the microphone there -[733.16 --> 734.00] And you go ahead -[734.00 --> 735.32] And make your announcements -[735.32 --> 740.86] Hello -[740.86 --> 741.46] Okay -[741.46 --> 743.70] So the Young Adults Bible Study -[743.70 --> 744.16] Is today -[744.16 --> 745.52] One hour after church -[745.52 --> 747.68] At Courtney Rorsma's house -[747.68 --> 750.12] She is happily hosting us -[750.12 --> 751.60] And providing a wonderful lunch -[751.60 --> 753.50] Also she has an exquisite -[753.50 --> 754.56] Assortment of tea -[754.56 --> 756.60] So if the Lord is not -[756.60 --> 757.84] What brings you to the Bible study -[757.84 --> 759.56] The tea collection will -[759.56 --> 760.60] So you should go -[760.60 --> 762.00] Also we're talking -[762.00 --> 762.72] About the Lord's Supper -[762.72 --> 763.66] Ironically enough -[763.66 --> 765.46] Sovereignty of God -[765.46 --> 766.18] Plans those things -[766.18 --> 766.70] Not me -[766.70 --> 768.22] That was completely unintended -[768.22 --> 768.98] So -[768.98 --> 770.22] Young Adults -[770.22 --> 770.96] You should go -[770.96 --> 771.96] Awesome -[771.96 --> 778.56] Good morning -[778.56 --> 780.24] I'm Wendy Fulkerts -[780.24 --> 781.48] On behalf of -[781.48 --> 782.74] Women's Fellowship Group -[782.74 --> 783.32] Which is -[783.32 --> 785.30] Linda Molenkamp -[785.30 --> 787.16] And Fran Skipper -[787.16 --> 788.50] We're just inviting -[788.50 --> 790.22] All women to come out -[790.22 --> 791.26] On June 20th -[791.26 --> 792.66] It's a Tuesday evening -[792.66 --> 795.54] We have it in the bulletin -[795.54 --> 796.98] But we've changed the venue -[796.98 --> 798.64] To our church courtyard -[798.64 --> 800.92] Just because of -[800.92 --> 803.14] Sometimes it's quite noisy -[803.14 --> 803.76] At the park -[803.76 --> 804.08] So -[804.08 --> 805.98] And it's -[805.98 --> 807.16] Kind of a wedding -[807.16 --> 808.48] Blessing -[808.48 --> 808.94] It's not -[808.94 --> 810.86] It's a wedding blessing -[810.86 --> 812.38] For two girls -[812.38 --> 812.82] That -[812.82 --> 815.26] We'd like to welcome -[815.26 --> 816.10] Into our church -[816.10 --> 817.24] It's -[817.24 --> 818.80] For Jane -[818.80 --> 819.58] Who's marrying -[819.58 --> 821.40] Micah Klosterhoff -[821.40 --> 822.32] And also for Kristen -[822.32 --> 822.94] Who's marrying -[822.94 --> 823.84] Jared Berndt -[823.84 --> 826.12] And I don't even know -[826.12 --> 826.76] Those women -[826.76 --> 828.06] That well either -[828.06 --> 828.42] But -[828.42 --> 830.58] We just promised -[830.58 --> 831.22] That we would -[831.22 --> 832.38] Welcome -[832.38 --> 833.48] New -[833.48 --> 835.46] Members -[835.46 --> 836.28] Into our church -[836.28 --> 837.30] And especially -[837.30 --> 839.26] For those two girls -[839.26 --> 840.00] We'd like to -[840.00 --> 840.84] Invite them -[840.84 --> 841.20] To -[841.20 --> 843.16] This shower -[843.16 --> 843.68] And -[843.68 --> 844.74] We're just -[844.74 --> 845.60] Really encouraging -[845.60 --> 846.12] All of you -[846.12 --> 846.74] To come out -[846.74 --> 847.40] And welcome -[847.40 --> 847.70] Them -[847.70 --> 848.96] Into our family -[848.96 --> 849.70] And we'll just -[849.70 --> 851.00] It's very casual -[851.00 --> 851.60] It's -[851.60 --> 853.64] Not even going to be -[853.64 --> 854.44] Games there -[854.44 --> 854.72] So -[854.72 --> 856.40] If you don't like -[856.40 --> 857.10] Shower games -[857.10 --> 858.06] But it's -[858.06 --> 858.92] We're basically -[858.92 --> 859.72] Getting to know -[859.72 --> 860.90] These two girls -[860.90 --> 862.10] And their families -[862.10 --> 862.76] Okay -[862.76 --> 863.32] Thanks -[863.32 --> 868.74] And then -[868.74 --> 869.68] One last thing -[869.68 --> 870.58] We are -[870.58 --> 871.18] Continuing -[871.18 --> 871.62] With -[871.62 --> 872.18] Pastors -[872.18 --> 872.66] Class -[872.66 --> 873.16] After -[873.16 --> 873.88] Our -[873.88 --> 874.24] Worship -[874.24 --> 874.56] Today -[874.56 --> 874.90] And so -[874.90 --> 875.36] For those of you -[875.36 --> 875.66] Who have been -[875.66 --> 876.94] Participating in that -[876.94 --> 878.54] We'll be in the -[878.54 --> 879.60] Multipurpose room again -[879.60 --> 881.48] About 15 or 20 minutes -[881.48 --> 882.52] At the end -[882.52 --> 883.72] After the end -[883.72 --> 884.56] Of our worship -[884.56 --> 884.94] Together -[884.94 --> 889.24] There's a youth -[889.24 --> 890.22] Barbecue today -[890.22 --> 892.12] From 5 to 8 -[892.12 --> 892.76] At the -[892.76 --> 893.50] Van Hemerts -[893.50 --> 893.96] Van Hemerts -[893.96 --> 894.50] Raise your hand -[894.50 --> 895.80] If you don't know -[895.80 --> 896.30] Where that is -[896.30 --> 896.94] Talk to them -[896.94 --> 897.92] It's like -[897.92 --> 898.66] Half a block -[898.66 --> 899.28] Away from here -[899.28 --> 899.98] Nice and close -[899.98 --> 901.14] And so -[901.14 --> 901.76] That's end of the year -[901.76 --> 902.78] Celebration for youth -[902.78 --> 903.46] If you have questions -[903.46 --> 904.22] You can get Kevin -[904.22 --> 905.46] Or the Van Hemerts -[905.46 --> 906.88] Perfect -[906.88 --> 908.32] Let's stand together -[908.32 --> 909.80] As we gather -[909.80 --> 910.82] In God's presence -[910.82 --> 914.82] We are here -[914.82 --> 915.58] In the presence -[915.58 --> 916.04] Of God -[916.04 --> 917.32] And we mark that -[917.32 --> 918.62] We acknowledge that -[918.62 --> 919.70] By receiving -[919.70 --> 921.22] His greeting -[921.22 --> 922.58] Following the greeting -[922.58 --> 923.08] Of God -[923.08 --> 923.72] I'm going to invite you -[923.72 --> 924.54] To turn to those -[924.54 --> 925.14] Around you -[925.14 --> 926.14] And welcome them -[926.14 --> 927.64] Into worship -[927.64 --> 929.20] Receive the greeting -[929.20 --> 929.98] Of our Lord -[929.98 --> 931.34] Grace -[931.34 --> 932.60] Mercy -[932.60 --> 933.58] And peace -[933.58 --> 933.98] To you -[933.98 --> 935.28] From God our Father -[935.28 --> 936.80] From the Lord Jesus Christ -[936.80 --> 937.62] His Son -[937.62 --> 938.74] And our Savior -[938.74 --> 939.76] Through the presence -[939.76 --> 940.36] And power -[940.36 --> 941.56] Of the Holy Spirit -[941.56 --> 943.30] Amen -[943.30 --> 944.88] Welcome -[944.88 --> 947.90] Good morning -[950.90 --> 951.64] Good morning -[951.64 --> 952.08] Good morning -[952.16 --> 957.70] Good morning -[965.70 --> 966.48] Good morning -[966.48 --> 966.50] Good morning -[966.50 --> 967.88] Good morning -[967.88 --> 968.60] Good morning -[968.60 --> 969.08] Good morning -[969.08 --> 982.04] Our call to worship this morning comes from Ezra 3. -[983.42 --> 990.24] When the builders laid the foundation of the temple of the Lord, -[990.82 --> 994.88] the priests, in their vestments and with trumpets, -[995.24 --> 998.12] and the Levites, the sons of Asaph, with cymbals, -[998.12 --> 1004.16] took their places to praise the Lord, as prescribed by David, king of Israel. -[1004.84 --> 1007.94] With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the Lord, -[1008.34 --> 1012.42] He is good, his love toward Israel endures forever. -[1012.96 --> 1016.42] And all the people gave a great shout of praise to the Lord, -[1016.74 --> 1020.18] because the foundation of the house of the Lord was laid. -[1028.12 --> 1044.64] Holy, holy, holy, -[1044.64 --> 1052.02] Lord God Almighty, -[1052.02 --> 1059.34] When in the morning -[1059.34 --> 1066.64] Our song shall rise to Thee -[1066.64 --> 1073.26] Holy, holy, holy -[1073.26 --> 1080.38] Blessed, full and mighty -[1080.38 --> 1087.24] Come in free presence -[1087.24 --> 1088.98] Blessed, full and mighty -[1088.98 --> 1092.98] Blessed, full and mighty -[1092.98 --> 1100.90] Holy, holy, holy -[1100.90 --> 1104.94] Holy, holy -[1104.94 --> 1111.90] All the saints adore Thee -[1111.90 --> 1133.68] Cast withona -[1133.68 --> 1134.74] Here we demand -[1134.74 --> 1140.74] Falling down before Thee, -[1140.74 --> 1145.74] New words and arms, -[1145.74 --> 1153.74] Evermore shall be. -[1153.74 --> 1164.74] Holy, Holy, Holy, -[1164.74 --> 1171.74] Though the darkness I be, -[1171.74 --> 1174.74] Though Thee I live, -[1174.74 --> 1184.74] Once I sing Thy glory made us sing. -[1184.74 --> 1190.74] For in our glory, -[1190.74 --> 1197.74] There is none beside Thee, -[1197.74 --> 1201.74] Perfectly, -[1201.74 --> 1204.74] Highly, -[1204.74 --> 1209.74] Love and glory. -[1227.74 --> 1242.74] I bow before You, -[1242.74 --> 1246.74] King of glory, -[1246.74 --> 1249.74] Only on You, -[1249.74 --> 1254.74] And beside Thee. -[1254.74 --> 1258.74] Perfectly, -[1258.74 --> 1261.74] Power, -[1261.74 --> 1263.74] Father, -[1263.74 --> 1267.74] Forever, -[1267.74 --> 1273.74] New words and glory, -[1273.74 --> 1276.74] And You will be. -[1276.74 --> 1281.74] I bow before Thee, -[1281.74 --> 1287.74] In the glory, -[1287.74 --> 1288.74] Holy, -[1288.74 --> 1295.74] And beside Thee, -[1295.74 --> 1299.74] Perfectly, -[1299.74 --> 1300.74] In the glory, -[1300.74 --> 1304.74] My God, -[1304.74 --> 1309.74] For heaven, -[1309.74 --> 1314.74] You and all, -[1314.74 --> 1317.74] And to me, -[1317.74 --> 1321.74] In the glory, -[1321.74 --> 1323.74] ousJA感 mirror, -[1323.74 --> 1326.74] In the glory, -[1326.74 --> 1336.74] I bowand unfortunately -[1336.74 --> 1357.58] All my earth shall be for thee, -[1358.80 --> 1361.80] Father who loves, -[1362.14 --> 1364.98] perché to bow down the vale -[1364.98 --> 1371.20] God, we'll be blessed -[1371.20 --> 1377.08] As it is me -[1377.08 --> 1381.12] Stand before Thee -[1381.12 --> 1386.72] Ring of glory -[1386.72 --> 1391.24] Beside Thee -[1391.24 --> 1394.78] Yes, I mşh -[1394.78 --> 1397.92] cod -[1397.92 --> 1400.64] ś -[1400.64 --> 1401.14] ś -[1401.14 --> 1402.66] Kauc -[1402.66 --> 1405.12] ś -[1405.12 --> 1405.92] Kauc -[1405.92 --> 1408.14] Kauc -[1408.14 --> 1410.84] ś -[1410.84 --> 1415.62] Kauc -[1415.62 --> 1421.62] I stand before the moon -[1421.62 --> 1431.62] King of glory, holy, I will come -[1431.62 --> 1441.62] And beside me, perfect in power -[1441.62 --> 1455.62] My God forever, new, air, and all -[1455.62 --> 1459.62] And new -[1471.62 --> 1485.62] Though the nations bridge, kingdoms rise and fall -[1485.62 --> 1497.62] Though the nations bridge, kingdoms rise and fall -[1497.62 --> 1503.62] There is still one King reigning over all -[1503.62 --> 1513.62] So I will not fear -[1513.62 --> 1517.62] For His truth remains -[1517.62 --> 1527.62] That my God is the Ancient of Days -[1527.62 --> 1531.62] None above Him and before Him -[1531.62 --> 1535.62] All the tiny visions -[1535.62 --> 1539.62] For His holy sharing -[1539.62 --> 1545.62] And ever stand -[1545.62 --> 1549.62] All the power and the glory -[1549.62 --> 1553.62] I will trust in His grace -[1553.62 --> 1563.62] For my God is the Ancient of Days -[1563.62 --> 1567.62] O the dead of Christ -[1567.62 --> 1571.62] O who else I saw -[1571.62 --> 1575.62] He is here with me -[1575.62 --> 1577.62] I am the Lord -[1577.62 --> 1579.62] I am the Lord -[1579.62 --> 1585.62] All His love is sure -[1585.62 --> 1589.62] And He knows my name -[1589.62 --> 1597.62] For my God is the Ancient of Days -[1597.62 --> 1599.62] And I will love Him -[1599.62 --> 1601.62] And I will love Him -[1601.62 --> 1603.62] Love before Him -[1603.62 --> 1607.62] All the tiny visions -[1607.62 --> 1609.62] In His glory -[1609.62 --> 1611.62] And His glory is shining -[1611.62 --> 1613.62] And ever stand -[1613.62 --> 1617.62] For the power and the glory -[1617.62 --> 1619.62] For the power and the glory -[1619.62 --> 1623.62] I will trust in His grace -[1623.62 --> 1625.62] For my God is the Ancient of Days -[1625.62 --> 1627.62] For my God is the Ancient of Days -[1627.62 --> 1631.62] For my God is the Ancient of Days -[1631.62 --> 1633.62] For my God is the Ancient of Days -[1633.62 --> 1635.62] For my God is the Ancient of Days -[1635.62 --> 1637.62] For my God is the Ancient of Days -[1637.62 --> 1639.62] For my God is the Ancient of Days -[1639.62 --> 1640.62] For my God is the Ancient of Days -[1640.62 --> 1642.62] For my God is the Ancient of Days -[1642.62 --> 1644.62] For my God is the Ancient of Days -[1644.62 --> 1645.62] For my God is the Ancient of Days -[1645.62 --> 1649.62] To watch and wait -[1649.62 --> 1653.62] For the Savior King -[1653.62 --> 1657.62] Let my joy come free -[1657.62 --> 1663.62] Standing in this way -[1663.62 --> 1665.62] For the heavens -[1665.62 --> 1667.62] For the heavens and the heavens -[1667.62 --> 1669.62] For the heavens -[1669.62 --> 1675.62] And I will come in looking for Him -[1675.62 --> 1679.62] For the time in His hands -[1679.62 --> 1685.62] For His throne in shouting and all the stands -[1685.62 --> 1686.62] For theächen of theief -[1686.62 --> 1687.62] For the troubles of Christ -[1687.62 --> 1688.62] Forbivome just 是 -[1688.62 --> 1690.62] For theritt 측tan -[1690.62 --> 1697.32] The power and the glory, I will trust in it with me. -[1697.92 --> 1703.88] For my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1706.38 --> 1713.10] For my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1720.62 --> 1734.02] Please pray with me. -[1735.24 --> 1739.80] In Jeremiah 6, Lord, you tell us to stand at the crossroads and look. -[1740.62 --> 1743.28] To ask where the good way is and walk in it. -[1744.08 --> 1747.10] Only here will we find rest for our souls. -[1748.36 --> 1750.52] But we confess that we do not walk in it. -[1750.66 --> 1752.10] We refuse to listen. -[1752.10 --> 1758.84] Because we have not listened to your words and have rejected your law, you bring disaster. -[1760.24 --> 1763.92] Lord, we pray that you would open our eyes to our sinful ways. -[1764.30 --> 1766.80] Bring restoration to this world and to your people. -[1767.30 --> 1770.66] Forgive us when we do not listen and walk in your ways. -[1771.40 --> 1777.84] Lord of peace, renew a steadfast spirit within us so that we can rest in you alone. -[1778.64 --> 1778.96] Amen. -[1778.96 --> 1779.10] Amen. -[1780.62 --> 1792.32] The Queen ofance -[1792.32 --> 1801.82] Still my soul, be still and do not fear. -[1801.82 --> 1807.32] No winds of change will rage tomorrow -[1807.32 --> 1813.48] God is at your side -[1813.48 --> 1816.16] No longer dread -[1816.16 --> 1821.94] The fires of unexpected sorrow -[1821.94 --> 1827.72] God, you are my God -[1827.72 --> 1830.74] And I will trust in you -[1830.74 --> 1834.78] And I'll be shaken -[1834.78 --> 1841.20] All of these relief -[1841.20 --> 1845.74] And so fast we're under the need -[1845.74 --> 1851.90] To rest in you alone -[1851.90 --> 1863.10] Still, my soul, be still -[1863.10 --> 1865.96] Do not be moved -[1865.96 --> 1870.92] By lesser lights and fleeting shadows -[1870.92 --> 1876.96] Hold on to the end -[1876.96 --> 1880.96] With shield of aid -[1880.96 --> 1885.74] Against temptations when he airs -[1885.74 --> 1891.44] God, you are my Lord -[1891.44 --> 1894.52] And I will trust in you -[1894.52 --> 1895.02] And I will trust in you -[1895.02 --> 1898.02] And I will trust in you -[1898.02 --> 1903.02] And I will trust in you -[1903.02 --> 1905.02] Lord, you are my God -[1905.02 --> 1907.02] And I will trust in you -[1907.02 --> 1913.02] And I will trust in you -[1913.02 --> 1917.02] To rest in you alone -[1917.02 --> 1927.40] Still, my soul, be still -[1927.40 --> 1930.02] Do not forsake -[1930.02 --> 1935.02] The truth you learned in the beginning -[1935.02 --> 1941.02] Wait upon the Lord -[1941.02 --> 1946.02] And hope will rise -[1946.02 --> 1947.02] As stars appear -[1947.02 --> 1948.02] When day is day -[1948.02 --> 1952.02] And I will trust in you -[1952.02 --> 1954.00] I will trust in you -[1954.02 --> 1956.02] And I will trust in you -[1956.02 --> 1960.02] And I will trust in you -[1960.02 --> 1962.02] And I will trust in you -[1962.02 --> 1992.00] Thank you. -[1992.02 --> 2006.10] Oh, please leave us that the Spirit within me to ask in you. -[2006.10 --> 2013.10] Thank you. -[2013.10 --> 2015.42] Please stand with me. -[2015.42 --> 2022.16] As we recite together Lord's Day question and answer 52 as our assurance this morning. -[2022.16 --> 2024.16] Question. -[2024.16 --> 2031.16] How does Christ's return to judge the living and the dead comfort you? -[2031.16 --> 2048.88] In all distress and persecution, with uplifted head, I confidently await the very Judge who has already offered himself to the judgment of God in my place and removed the whole curse from me. -[2048.88 --> 2063.46] Christ will cast all his enemies and mine into everlasting confirmation, but will take me and all the chosen ones to himself into the joy and glory of heaven. -[2063.46 --> 2093.44] Thank you. -[2093.44 --> 2095.44] Thank you. -[2095.44 --> 2099.44] Thank you. -[2099.44 --> 2101.44] Thank you. -[2101.44 --> 2102.44] Thank you. -[2102.44 --> 2103.44] Thank you. -[2103.44 --> 2105.44] Thank you. -[2105.44 --> 2110.44] Thank you. -[2135.44 --> 2142.64] As our heart is left with me. -[2153.94 --> 2157.92] Far be it from me to not believe. -[2157.92 --> 2159.92] Far be it from me to not believe. -[2159.92 --> 2161.92] Far be it from me to not believe. -[2161.92 --> 2165.92] Even when my eyes can't see. -[2165.92 --> 2171.92] And this mountain that's in the high of me. -[2171.92 --> 2177.92] Will be thrown into the cliffs of the sea. -[2177.92 --> 2181.92] Through and home, through and home. -[2181.92 --> 2185.92] My eyes are under. -[2185.92 --> 2189.92] Through and home, through and home. -[2189.92 --> 2191.92] Through and home, through and home. -[2191.92 --> 2195.92] Through and home, through and home. -[2195.92 --> 2197.92] My eyes are under. -[2197.92 --> 2201.92] In His way. -[2201.92 --> 2205.92] In His way. -[2205.92 --> 2209.92] So let go, my soul. -[2209.92 --> 2213.92] And trust in Him. -[2213.92 --> 2219.92] The ways and ways still go His way. -[2219.92 --> 2223.92] To let go, my soul. -[2223.92 --> 2225.92] And trust in Him. -[2225.92 --> 2229.92] The ways and ways still go His way. -[2229.92 --> 2233.92] Still go His way. -[2233.92 --> 2237.92] To let go, my soul. -[2237.92 --> 2239.92] And trust in Him. -[2239.92 --> 2243.92] The ways and ways still go His way. -[2243.92 --> 2245.92] Still go His way. -[2245.92 --> 2247.92] Still go His way. -[2247.92 --> 2249.92] The ways and ways still go His way. -[2249.92 --> 2251.92] Still go His way. -[2251.92 --> 2253.92] Still go His way. -[2253.92 --> 2255.92] It is well. -[2255.92 --> 2265.92] It is well. -[2265.92 --> 2267.92] With my soul. -[2267.92 --> 2269.92] It is well. -[2269.92 --> 2271.92] With my soul. -[2271.92 --> 2275.92] It is well. -[2275.92 --> 2281.92] With my soul. -[2281.92 --> 2283.92] It is well. -[2283.92 --> 2295.92] With my soul. -[2295.92 --> 2297.92] It is well. -[2297.92 --> 2299.92] It is well. -[2299.92 --> 2301.92] It is well. -[2301.92 --> 2302.92] It is well. -[2302.92 --> 2312.92] With my soul. -[2312.92 --> 2325.88] He is well with my soul. -[2325.88 --> 2338.56] He is well with my soul. -[2338.56 --> 2352.60] He is well with my soul. -[2352.60 --> 2366.60] He is well with my soul. -[2366.60 --> 2378.60] He is well with my soul. -[2378.60 --> 2392.64] He is well with my soul. -[2392.64 --> 2408.64] Through it all, through it all, my eyes are on you. -[2408.64 --> 2424.64] Through it all, through it all, my eyes are on you. -[2424.64 --> 2429.64] He is well with my soul. -[2429.64 --> 2445.64] Through it all, through it all, my eyes are on you. -[2445.64 --> 2461.64] Thank you. -[2461.64 --> 2466.64] Good morning. -[2466.64 --> 2471.64] My name is Clem, and I am one of the deacons here at Emmanuel. -[2471.64 --> 2475.64] The first offering is for the ministries and missions of our church. -[2475.64 --> 2479.64] The special offering is for Open Doors Canada. -[2479.64 --> 2488.64] This organization supports and strengthens persecuted Christians around the world in more than 70 countries. -[2488.64 --> 2491.64] They distribute about 1 million Bibles per year. -[2491.64 --> 2500.64] They also train persecuted Christians with survival seminars, trauma care, leadership, and discipleship courses. -[2500.64 --> 2510.64] In 2020, they helped almost a million people with emergency relief, community development, education, and medical care. -[2510.64 --> 2527.64] Now, quoting the founder of Open Doors, Brother Andrew, our prayers go nowhere, go, sorry, our prayers go where we cannot, which refers to places like North Korea and the like. -[2527.64 --> 2535.64] In Romans 8, 35, 37, who shall separate us from the love of Christ? -[2535.64 --> 2540.64] As it is written, for your sake we face death all day long. -[2540.64 --> 2543.64] We are considered as sheep to be slaughtered. -[2543.64 --> 2549.64] No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. -[2549.64 --> 2552.64] Give according to your blessings. -[2552.64 --> 2554.64] Thank you. -[2557.64 --> 2559.64] Thank you. -[2587.64 --> 2589.64] Thank you. -[2617.64 --> 2619.64] Thank you. -[2647.64 --> 2649.64] Thank you. -[2677.64 --> 2679.52] Thank you. -[2680.64 --> 2683.44] Thank you. -[2707.64 --> 2737.62] Thank you. -[2737.64 --> 2767.62] Thank you. -[2767.64 --> 2772.94] All the three-year-olds up to grade four to come up for a WeChat and then the children's -[2772.94 --> 2773.38] blessing. -[2781.90 --> 2782.30] Hello. -[2782.62 --> 2783.28] How are you all? -[2784.20 --> 2784.60] Good. -[2784.92 --> 2785.28] Good. -[2785.70 --> 2786.78] Hey, do you guys know? -[2786.96 --> 2787.54] Do you guys remember? -[2787.58 --> 2788.00] Well, you know. -[2788.16 --> 2788.84] I know you know. -[2789.44 --> 2792.64] Do you guys remember what we've been talking about in children's worship time? -[2792.64 --> 2795.22] What's the theme? -[2796.30 --> 2797.36] Fruits of the Spirit. -[2797.54 --> 2799.20] Isla is on top of it. -[2799.94 --> 2804.44] So as I'm sitting here, I'm just going to start pulling out some actual fruits. -[2805.80 --> 2806.28] Yeah. -[2806.28 --> 2808.76] I'm wondering, do you guys know? -[2808.90 --> 2812.58] Can you guys tell us what are the fruits of the Spirit? -[2812.62 --> 2813.92] We haven't done them all yet. -[2814.60 --> 2816.14] But I'm amazed at what you guys know. -[2816.92 --> 2818.30] Names, just call them out. -[2819.02 --> 2819.46] Love. -[2820.12 --> 2820.52] Joy. -[2821.24 --> 2821.66] Peace. -[2822.06 --> 2822.54] Patience. -[2823.14 --> 2823.66] Kindness. -[2823.66 --> 2828.02] Yeah, for sure. -[2828.24 --> 2829.52] I'm sure we mixed a few extras. -[2829.66 --> 2830.72] Nice job, guys. -[2832.26 --> 2834.22] We haven't even got through all nine yet. -[2834.32 --> 2836.68] We are on, we're on the fifth one. -[2836.76 --> 2837.66] Not that they're ordered. -[2837.82 --> 2839.78] But we're the fifth one that's listed in Galatians. -[2839.86 --> 2842.24] So last week, do you guys remember which one we talked about? -[2843.76 --> 2844.16] Patience. -[2844.56 --> 2845.66] It was patience last week. -[2845.66 --> 2849.98] And this week, we're going to talk about the next one on the list. -[2849.98 --> 2858.46] But if you guys had to pick a fruit that you would say is like one of the fruits of the Spirit, -[2858.64 --> 2859.94] what would you pick? -[2860.00 --> 2862.20] Like if you were to say love, what would you say? -[2862.30 --> 2863.68] What kind of fruit is love like? -[2865.58 --> 2866.40] A banana. -[2866.86 --> 2867.22] Why? -[2867.42 --> 2869.12] Why is love like a banana? -[2869.94 --> 2870.92] Because you love them. -[2871.08 --> 2872.28] You love the taste of bananas? -[2875.62 --> 2876.92] Because they're really tasty. -[2877.40 --> 2879.64] What about patience? -[2879.64 --> 2881.90] What fruit would you say patience is like? -[2883.78 --> 2884.44] An apple? -[2884.58 --> 2885.08] Why an apple? -[2887.34 --> 2890.48] I would say like a pomegranate. -[2890.58 --> 2891.70] Do you know what a pomegranate is? -[2892.66 --> 2895.12] It takes a bit of time to get through a pomegranate. -[2895.28 --> 2899.36] You've got to hit it and you've got to shake all the things out and eat them all little bits at a time. -[2899.94 --> 2902.42] What about peace? -[2903.20 --> 2905.46] What fruit would you say is like peace? -[2905.46 --> 2909.12] I've got some fruits here to look at. -[2909.88 --> 2910.96] Why strawberries? -[2911.80 --> 2912.44] Or a peach? -[2913.20 --> 2913.92] Why a peach? -[2914.64 --> 2915.10] Don't know. -[2915.42 --> 2916.10] We just like them. -[2916.54 --> 2916.70] Yeah. -[2916.82 --> 2918.14] They're soft on the outside. -[2918.36 --> 2919.46] Yummy on the inside. -[2919.60 --> 2920.80] Just like peace, I guess. -[2920.80 --> 2923.60] So, here's some ideas. -[2925.50 --> 2930.58] Well, today we're going to talk about the fruit of the spirit of kindness. -[2931.54 --> 2934.52] Okay, which fruit would you say is like kindness? -[2935.98 --> 2936.94] Just to be fun. -[2937.60 --> 2938.28] What would you say? -[2938.40 --> 2939.72] What fruit reminds you of kindness? -[2939.72 --> 2945.92] Kind of like a peach as well. -[2945.92 --> 2946.36] Yeah? -[2946.82 --> 2947.82] Any other ideas? -[2947.92 --> 2948.74] I have an idea. -[2952.50 --> 2954.40] You have so many fruits at home? -[2954.72 --> 2959.16] Well, I'm going to say kindness is kind of like a watermelon. -[2960.62 --> 2961.18] Right? -[2962.46 --> 2963.02] Yeah. -[2963.16 --> 2965.68] Why do you think I would think kindness is like a watermelon? -[2966.52 --> 2968.06] It's a pretty big fruit. -[2971.12 --> 2971.66] Yeah? -[2971.66 --> 2974.84] Because do you ever just eat a watermelon by yourself? -[2975.74 --> 2976.14] No? -[2976.54 --> 2977.82] I had a cousin that did actually. -[2978.04 --> 2979.26] But, yeah. -[2979.90 --> 2984.12] Do you think this is the kind of thing you just pull out and you eat for yourself? -[2985.10 --> 2985.54] No. -[2985.64 --> 2988.28] It's meant to be shared. -[2988.98 --> 2989.34] Yeah. -[2989.78 --> 2993.74] So, I think that's what we're going to talk about today in Children's Worship Time. -[2994.10 --> 2999.04] It's how kindness is kind of one of the big fruits of the spirit that you just got to share it. -[2999.12 --> 3000.04] It's for other people. -[3000.56 --> 3000.76] Okay? -[3000.76 --> 3003.00] So, we'll talk more in the back in the other room. -[3003.30 --> 3007.74] But, let's stand together with the church and we will do the blessing. -[3009.18 --> 3010.28] So, raise our hands. -[3010.42 --> 3010.62] Ready? -[3011.82 --> 3012.26] I do. -[3012.38 --> 3012.72] Let's turn. -[3012.92 --> 3015.86] The Lord be with you. -[3016.42 --> 3017.66] Also with you. -[3017.66 --> 3018.16] Amen. -[3018.16 --> 3018.66] Amen. -[3018.66 --> 3019.66] Amen. -[3019.66 --> 3019.72] Amen. -[3019.72 --> 3019.82] Amen. -[3019.82 --> 3019.86] Amen. -[3019.86 --> 3020.16] Amen. -[3020.16 --> 3020.22] Amen. -[3020.22 --> 3020.76] Amen. -[3020.76 --> 3020.82] Amen. -[3020.82 --> 3020.86] Amen. -[3020.86 --> 3020.90] Amen. -[3020.90 --> 3021.82] Amen. -[3021.82 --> 3021.90] Amen. -[3021.90 --> 3022.90] Amen. -[3022.90 --> 3022.98] Amen. -[3022.98 --> 3023.90] Amen. -[3023.90 --> 3024.90] Amen. -[3024.90 --> 3025.90] Amen. -[3025.90 --> 3026.90] Amen. -[3026.90 --> 3027.90] Amen. -[3027.90 --> 3028.90] Amen. -[3028.90 --> 3029.90] Amen. -[3029.90 --> 3030.74] Amen. -[3030.76 --> 3044.00] Good morning, everybody. -[3044.48 --> 3049.98] I'm really glad that Mike didn't break out into the fruit of the spirit's not a coconut and -[3049.98 --> 3050.96] getting the kids all going with that. -[3050.96 --> 3054.34] I'm thankful for that, but it is a fun song. -[3055.56 --> 3058.94] Before we go to God and our family prayer, -[3059.14 --> 3062.30] some notes from our full council meeting that we had this past week. -[3063.88 --> 3065.66] It's a long walk up from the back there. -[3068.24 --> 3071.84] First of all, as council, we looked at the new safe church policy, -[3071.84 --> 3073.94] and then we're implementing that in the new year. -[3074.46 --> 3077.12] And so just keep an eye on that if you're ministry leaders -[3077.12 --> 3079.70] or volunteers in different ministries, -[3079.70 --> 3083.18] that that's something that we want to make sure is happening and going well, -[3083.38 --> 3085.40] because that's a very good thing to have at church. -[3086.26 --> 3090.08] We also approved the financial statements from 2022, -[3090.82 --> 3095.28] and coming up soon on June 22nd, we have an annual general meeting, -[3095.78 --> 3097.94] starting with a 6 o'clock barbecue, -[3098.36 --> 3101.06] and then at 7 p.m. we'll have a meeting of members, -[3102.52 --> 3106.16] and there are packages that are emailed to the membership list. -[3106.66 --> 3109.00] If you didn't get one, then please talk to the office. -[3109.70 --> 3114.12] We also heard reports from our pastors and the work that they are doing there, -[3114.26 --> 3117.82] the relationships that they are continuing to foster and grow, -[3118.38 --> 3121.64] and the wonderful ways that we're seeing God at work in Emmanuel. -[3122.84 --> 3125.42] After that, we went to Ken's house. -[3125.92 --> 3130.06] He and Amanda opened their home for us to have an end-of-year social -[3130.06 --> 3132.94] to say thanks to those who had completed their terms -[3132.94 --> 3135.40] and to welcome our new office pairs as well. -[3137.32 --> 3138.58] And one other note, -[3139.12 --> 3144.28] Wes Chepkima went in earlier this week for some surgery with a concerning growth, -[3144.50 --> 3146.48] and they were able to get it all. -[3146.70 --> 3148.56] So this is good news, and we thank God for that. -[3150.56 --> 3153.24] All right, if you can please bow your heads with me -[3153.24 --> 3155.04] and join me in our church family prayer. -[3155.04 --> 3156.70] Let's pray. -[3160.60 --> 3162.76] God is our refuge and strength, -[3163.80 --> 3165.36] an ever-present help in trouble. -[3166.60 --> 3168.10] Therefore we will not fear, -[3168.86 --> 3170.02] though the earth give way -[3170.02 --> 3172.56] and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, -[3173.20 --> 3175.24] though its waters roar and foam -[3175.24 --> 3177.54] and the mountains quake with their surging. -[3177.54 --> 3180.26] Father God, -[3181.10 --> 3182.00] Christ Jesus, -[3182.86 --> 3183.66] Holy Spirit, -[3184.26 --> 3186.08] we worship and adore you -[3186.08 --> 3190.28] as we gather as your called people together today in this place. -[3191.38 --> 3193.52] You are eternally faithful, -[3194.22 --> 3194.60] powerful, -[3195.14 --> 3195.64] and loving. -[3196.54 --> 3198.36] You are completely trustworthy, -[3199.10 --> 3200.70] and you hold all of time, -[3201.30 --> 3202.06] our times, -[3202.38 --> 3204.26] and the cosmos in your hands. -[3204.26 --> 3207.34] You provide for all of our needs -[3207.34 --> 3209.48] and cause streams of living water -[3209.48 --> 3211.10] to spring up in dry places. -[3212.76 --> 3216.14] There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, -[3216.70 --> 3219.42] the holy place where the Most High dwells. -[3220.26 --> 3221.20] God is within her. -[3221.70 --> 3222.68] She will not fall. -[3223.54 --> 3225.26] God will help her at break of day. -[3226.58 --> 3227.84] Nations are in uproar. -[3228.70 --> 3229.54] Kingdoms fall. -[3230.04 --> 3231.10] He lifts his voice. -[3231.72 --> 3232.64] The earth melts. -[3232.64 --> 3236.06] The Lord Almighty is with us. -[3236.62 --> 3238.74] The God of Jacob is our fortress. -[3240.82 --> 3243.68] And yet we waver in our faith to you -[3243.68 --> 3245.58] and in our service for you. -[3246.32 --> 3249.36] We confess that we are creatures of comfort -[3249.36 --> 3250.74] with wandering hearts. -[3251.60 --> 3255.34] We acknowledge that we often equate our temporary pains -[3255.34 --> 3256.88] with your ultimate suffering, -[3257.86 --> 3260.40] selfishly seeking to console ourselves -[3260.40 --> 3264.14] instead of deeply desiring to serve the least of these -[3264.14 --> 3266.06] or to care for your creation. -[3267.32 --> 3267.94] Forgive us -[3267.94 --> 3271.72] and empower us to turn towards your way, -[3272.12 --> 3273.58] keeping in step with your spirit. -[3273.58 --> 3278.60] We humbly ask that while we await your return, -[3279.24 --> 3281.52] that you continue to graciously grant us -[3281.52 --> 3282.82] what we stand in need of. -[3283.90 --> 3285.30] We ask for patience -[3285.30 --> 3288.90] and for a tangible sense of your presence and comfort -[3288.90 --> 3291.72] for those awaiting results from tests, -[3292.42 --> 3294.00] for those awaiting healing, -[3294.76 --> 3297.70] for those recovering from surgeries or treatments, -[3297.70 --> 3302.32] for those caring for aging family or challenging dependence, -[3303.12 --> 3305.38] for those who struggle with mental health, -[3306.08 --> 3309.14] for those who experience brokenness and hurt, -[3309.70 --> 3312.92] and especially for those who mourn the loss of loved ones. -[3312.92 --> 3317.46] Grant that each of us may act on the call -[3317.46 --> 3318.88] to bear one another's burdens -[3318.88 --> 3321.60] as if it were Christ acting through us. -[3322.82 --> 3326.28] We also humbly ask for your mercy for our world, -[3327.28 --> 3330.68] suffering deeply through wars, famines, and injustice. -[3333.02 --> 3335.12] Come and see what the Lord has done, -[3335.94 --> 3338.02] the desolations he has brought on the earth. -[3338.46 --> 3341.26] He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth. -[3341.26 --> 3344.18] He breaks the bow and shatters the spear. -[3344.76 --> 3346.62] He burns the shields with fire. -[3349.08 --> 3350.64] We thank you for this church, -[3351.18 --> 3354.18] as well as for the denomination of which we are one part. -[3355.28 --> 3358.04] Bless the representatives who have gathered for Synod recently -[3358.04 --> 3358.98] and this week, -[3359.42 --> 3361.12] enabling them to discern your will -[3361.12 --> 3363.88] for our greater church body in our current context. -[3365.06 --> 3367.08] We also thank you for the new members -[3367.08 --> 3368.88] and interest in our church -[3369.18 --> 3371.16] and ask that they will feel connected -[3371.16 --> 3373.44] and guided to utilize the gifts -[3373.44 --> 3374.62] that you have given them -[3374.62 --> 3377.46] as they continue to grow in faith with us. -[3380.08 --> 3382.94] As we enter into a time of hearing your word proclaimed, -[3383.40 --> 3385.68] we ask that you will give us ears to hear -[3385.68 --> 3387.12] and eyes to see -[3387.12 --> 3389.50] and that you will speak your word of life -[3389.50 --> 3390.60] through Pastor Chris. -[3390.60 --> 3395.76] Be still and know that I am God. -[3396.76 --> 3398.64] I will be exalted among the nations. -[3399.44 --> 3401.28] I will be exalted in the earth. -[3402.36 --> 3404.56] The Lord Almighty is with us. -[3405.34 --> 3407.58] The God of Jacob is our fortress. -[3408.68 --> 3408.96] Amen. -[3420.60 --> 3430.82] As I come up here this morning, -[3430.92 --> 3434.02] I can't help but notice Mr. Mike left his fruit up here. -[3435.46 --> 3437.12] And so if any of you are distracted -[3437.12 --> 3438.60] for the next little while -[3438.60 --> 3439.54] or you need a snack, -[3440.08 --> 3441.20] just come on up to the front. -[3441.72 --> 3442.50] Go ahead and grab one. -[3442.88 --> 3445.08] I'm also grateful that it's not full of tomatoes. -[3445.08 --> 3448.36] Although I did hear once -[3448.36 --> 3450.58] that being smart is knowing -[3450.58 --> 3452.46] that tomato is a fruit. -[3452.94 --> 3455.44] Being wise is not putting tomatoes in fruit salad. -[3456.04 --> 3458.04] And so maybe tomato as a fruit of the Spirit -[3458.04 --> 3460.12] is not viable. -[3460.34 --> 3462.22] And maybe Mr. Mike is just showing us -[3462.22 --> 3463.20] how wise he is -[3463.20 --> 3465.10] by not having tomatoes up here. -[3467.12 --> 3468.62] But seriously, if you want a fruit, -[3468.96 --> 3469.76] they're here. -[3470.26 --> 3472.00] Just like the harvest table at the back, -[3472.00 --> 3474.44] help yourself at some point in our time together. -[3475.08 --> 3479.14] We're going to read together from Romans 8. -[3479.46 --> 3482.08] And so I'm going to invite you to open up a Bible -[3482.08 --> 3485.60] or get your phone or tablet -[3485.60 --> 3488.20] or whatever it is that you read the Bible on -[3488.20 --> 3490.34] and turn to Romans 8. -[3490.42 --> 3493.82] We're going to read starting at verse 18 together -[3493.82 --> 3497.34] through verse 27. -[3500.94 --> 3502.32] With God's Word open, -[3502.32 --> 3503.76] let's read together. -[3505.08 --> 3509.84] I consider that our present sufferings -[3509.84 --> 3511.60] are not worth comparing -[3511.60 --> 3514.56] with the glory that will be revealed in us. -[3515.40 --> 3518.66] For the creation waits in eager expectation -[3518.66 --> 3520.78] for the children of God to be revealed. -[3521.46 --> 3525.28] For the creation was subjected to frustration -[3525.28 --> 3527.40] not by its own choice, -[3527.50 --> 3529.86] but by the will of the one who subjected it -[3529.86 --> 3532.78] in hope that the creation itself -[3532.78 --> 3535.92] will be liberated from its bondage to decay -[3535.92 --> 3538.92] and brought into the freedom and glory -[3538.92 --> 3540.46] of the children of God. -[3542.06 --> 3544.78] We know that the whole creation -[3544.78 --> 3548.42] has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth -[3548.42 --> 3550.70] right up to the present time. -[3550.70 --> 3553.96] Not only so, but we ourselves, -[3553.96 --> 3556.74] who have the first fruits of the Spirit, -[3557.22 --> 3560.12] groan inwardly as we wait eagerly -[3560.12 --> 3561.86] for our adoption to sonship, -[3562.18 --> 3564.20] the redemption of our bodies. -[3565.20 --> 3568.36] For in this hope we were saved. -[3568.36 --> 3572.32] But hope that is seen is no hope at all. -[3573.04 --> 3576.06] Who hopes for what they already have? -[3577.22 --> 3580.76] But if we have hope for what we do not yet have, -[3580.94 --> 3583.02] we wait for it patiently. -[3584.72 --> 3586.08] In the same way, -[3586.22 --> 3588.24] the Spirit helps us in our weakness. -[3589.12 --> 3591.78] We do not know what we ought to pray for, -[3591.88 --> 3594.48] but the Spirit himself intercedes for us -[3594.48 --> 3596.52] through wordless groans. -[3596.52 --> 3601.36] And he who searches our hearts -[3601.36 --> 3603.46] knows the mind of the Spirit -[3603.46 --> 3607.26] because the Spirit intercedes for God's people -[3607.26 --> 3610.68] in accordance with the will of God. -[3611.42 --> 3612.96] This is the word of the Lord. -[3618.08 --> 3623.46] As I was preparing for this message -[3623.46 --> 3626.60] and looking at the text -[3626.60 --> 3632.36] and struggling through how to preach on it, -[3633.06 --> 3638.32] I realized that at least three times -[3638.32 --> 3640.62] in our series in the book of Romans, -[3640.62 --> 3643.22] I have said something along the lines of, -[3643.56 --> 3647.02] now this might just be my favorite verse in the Bible. -[3647.02 --> 3651.16] And I'm going to do that again this morning. -[3652.12 --> 3653.62] Now I want to acknowledge that -[3653.62 --> 3655.94] because I don't want to suggest -[3655.94 --> 3658.54] that I'm trivializing the verses of the Bible. -[3658.64 --> 3659.72] I think the struggle that I face -[3659.72 --> 3661.38] is that I love the Bible so much -[3661.38 --> 3663.08] and I love Romans so much -[3663.08 --> 3665.38] that there's just so much here -[3665.38 --> 3667.76] that I hope and pray that you will see. -[3668.42 --> 3669.50] But this verse, -[3669.78 --> 3671.00] this first verse, -[3671.30 --> 3672.14] verse 18, -[3672.14 --> 3674.84] I consider that our present sufferings -[3674.84 --> 3676.28] are not worth comparing -[3676.28 --> 3679.14] with the glory that will be revealed in us -[3679.14 --> 3686.66] is perhaps one of my absolute favorites. -[3687.42 --> 3689.18] Our present suffering -[3689.18 --> 3691.50] are not worth comparing -[3691.50 --> 3695.92] to the glory that will be revealed in us. -[3697.60 --> 3699.96] What does that even mean? -[3699.96 --> 3701.88] How is that even possible? -[3703.80 --> 3705.64] And I think one of the reasons -[3705.64 --> 3709.52] why it's so beautiful and compelling to me -[3709.52 --> 3710.82] is in fact, -[3711.04 --> 3714.80] because I have a very realistic picture -[3714.80 --> 3716.32] and experience -[3716.32 --> 3722.00] of how deep and dark and hard life can be. -[3722.80 --> 3726.76] How real our present struggles can be. -[3726.76 --> 3730.98] The reality for some of us here this morning, -[3731.06 --> 3733.80] maybe for every single person here this morning, -[3733.92 --> 3735.96] is that we are in the midst -[3735.96 --> 3741.72] of some pretty awful, crappy, hard times. -[3743.00 --> 3746.02] And when things are really bad, -[3746.30 --> 3749.28] sometimes this verse seems impossible. -[3749.28 --> 3755.06] And sometimes we've heard people use this verse -[3755.06 --> 3756.26] in the midst of our struggles -[3756.26 --> 3758.78] in a really kind of cheesy way, -[3758.92 --> 3759.92] and it doesn't help us. -[3759.94 --> 3762.36] It doesn't make us feel any better. -[3764.22 --> 3766.62] Our present sufferings right now, -[3766.70 --> 3767.40] there might be anything. -[3767.78 --> 3769.10] It could be cancer -[3769.10 --> 3770.68] or it could be being canceled. -[3771.36 --> 3772.38] It could be addiction -[3772.38 --> 3774.04] or it could be adultery. -[3774.24 --> 3775.68] It could be miscarriage -[3775.68 --> 3777.28] or it could be a manic episode. -[3777.28 --> 3778.38] Right? -[3778.50 --> 3780.68] Sometimes our present sufferings -[3780.68 --> 3781.94] are so real -[3781.94 --> 3783.52] that nothing else is. -[3785.22 --> 3786.32] Our present sufferings -[3786.32 --> 3787.26] are the only thing -[3787.26 --> 3789.04] that we can get present to. -[3790.58 --> 3791.30] And look, -[3791.36 --> 3793.36] as we dig into this text, -[3793.46 --> 3797.00] far from minimizing your suffering, -[3797.42 --> 3799.66] what I believe this verse wants us to do -[3799.66 --> 3800.88] is to maximize -[3800.88 --> 3803.48] our experience -[3803.48 --> 3804.38] and our idea -[3804.38 --> 3805.28] and our encounter -[3805.28 --> 3807.38] with the glory of God -[3807.38 --> 3808.14] to come. -[3810.66 --> 3811.54] And so as we begin, -[3811.70 --> 3812.70] I want to start -[3812.70 --> 3814.82] with a bit of a thought experiment -[3814.82 --> 3815.74] with you. -[3816.88 --> 3817.28] Really, -[3817.42 --> 3819.58] it's an emotional counseling process. -[3820.30 --> 3821.76] And so if you've met with me -[3821.76 --> 3822.38] for counseling, -[3822.54 --> 3824.02] we might have done an exercise like this. -[3824.06 --> 3825.18] If you meet with another counselor, -[3825.26 --> 3826.44] you might have done something like this. -[3826.44 --> 3828.32] But in your head -[3828.32 --> 3829.44] or in your heart, -[3830.04 --> 3830.78] in that place -[3830.78 --> 3832.44] where your imagination dwells, -[3833.88 --> 3835.56] I want you to think of -[3835.56 --> 3837.44] all your present suffering. -[3839.64 --> 3839.86] Right? -[3839.88 --> 3841.64] Everything that you are facing. -[3841.84 --> 3843.02] Pull it all together -[3843.02 --> 3844.24] in your imagination. -[3844.64 --> 3845.62] Really think about it. -[3847.34 --> 3847.52] Right? -[3847.58 --> 3848.24] Think about this -[3848.24 --> 3849.20] like a conversation -[3849.20 --> 3850.46] with a counselor. -[3850.46 --> 3853.08] And so take all of that crap, -[3853.48 --> 3854.62] take all of that bad, -[3854.78 --> 3855.78] take all of that trauma, -[3856.18 --> 3856.96] take everything. -[3857.40 --> 3858.62] And you know what it is. -[3858.84 --> 3858.94] Right? -[3859.06 --> 3860.24] Take even that thing -[3860.24 --> 3861.52] that you've never told anyone. -[3862.66 --> 3863.14] Right? -[3863.18 --> 3864.26] That secret thing. -[3864.96 --> 3867.14] Take all of that present suffering -[3867.14 --> 3868.50] and maybe, -[3868.68 --> 3869.28] if it helps you, -[3869.38 --> 3870.44] maybe close your eyes. -[3871.28 --> 3871.76] Right? -[3871.80 --> 3872.86] And then picture it -[3872.86 --> 3874.00] in front of you. -[3875.20 --> 3876.06] Remember it -[3876.06 --> 3878.22] in your brain space. -[3879.42 --> 3880.32] And maybe for you, -[3880.32 --> 3880.68] right now, -[3880.70 --> 3881.58] it looks like a box -[3881.58 --> 3883.64] and it's just piling full. -[3884.70 --> 3886.02] Maybe it looks like an ocean -[3886.02 --> 3887.98] with waves crashing over top -[3887.98 --> 3889.36] and crashing down -[3889.36 --> 3890.16] and around everywhere. -[3890.30 --> 3891.84] Maybe it's a black abyss. -[3892.40 --> 3892.50] Right? -[3892.58 --> 3893.86] Maybe it's a list -[3893.86 --> 3895.22] longer than your arm. -[3895.68 --> 3895.94] Maybe, -[3896.16 --> 3897.52] as I call this to mind, -[3897.78 --> 3898.86] it's a person. -[3899.66 --> 3900.58] It's a face -[3900.58 --> 3902.10] that represents -[3902.10 --> 3903.26] all your suffering. -[3905.26 --> 3906.40] Maybe it's a bottle. -[3907.52 --> 3908.32] Maybe it's a needle. -[3908.32 --> 3908.76] Right? -[3908.76 --> 3908.98] Maybe it's a circle. -[3909.38 --> 3910.48] Whatever it is, -[3910.54 --> 3911.78] I want you to see it. -[3912.84 --> 3914.00] Hold it in your mind. -[3915.64 --> 3916.58] And now holding that -[3916.58 --> 3917.10] in your mind, -[3917.72 --> 3918.72] here's what I want you to, -[3918.90 --> 3920.10] here's what I need you to see. -[3921.18 --> 3921.36] Right? -[3921.38 --> 3922.68] As you are looking at it, -[3922.74 --> 3923.44] whatever it is -[3923.44 --> 3924.16] you are thinking about, -[3924.20 --> 3924.98] whether it's an ocean -[3924.98 --> 3925.94] or a list, -[3926.26 --> 3927.12] whatever it is, -[3927.40 --> 3927.98] notice -[3927.98 --> 3930.80] there are edges. -[3932.64 --> 3933.08] Right? -[3933.08 --> 3934.70] It's a bounded set. -[3936.46 --> 3936.70] Right? -[3936.78 --> 3937.68] There's limits -[3937.68 --> 3940.28] to your suffering. -[3941.22 --> 3941.32] Right? -[3941.36 --> 3943.06] Even oceans have limits. -[3944.60 --> 3944.78] Okay? -[3944.82 --> 3945.40] And so here it is. -[3945.52 --> 3947.16] No matter how big -[3947.16 --> 3948.60] or how bad -[3948.60 --> 3950.16] or how crappy -[3950.16 --> 3952.86] your present sufferings may be, -[3953.08 --> 3954.74] there is a limit to them. -[3955.56 --> 3956.72] There is a boundary. -[3956.72 --> 3957.16] Right? -[3957.26 --> 3958.10] Your struggle -[3958.10 --> 3960.20] is not infinite. -[3961.46 --> 3962.26] And I get it. -[3962.74 --> 3963.44] I get it. -[3963.52 --> 3963.80] I do. -[3964.16 --> 3964.30] Right? -[3964.38 --> 3965.54] That when the waves -[3965.54 --> 3966.72] are crashing over you, -[3967.38 --> 3968.58] when you are in the middle -[3968.58 --> 3969.64] of the abyss, -[3969.88 --> 3971.66] you can't see those edges. -[3972.46 --> 3974.12] And you can't see those limits. -[3974.66 --> 3974.82] Right? -[3974.84 --> 3975.80] When you're in the middle of it, -[3975.84 --> 3978.36] it feels like there is no end. -[3978.42 --> 3980.06] It feels infinite. -[3980.06 --> 3981.74] And I know that sometimes -[3981.74 --> 3984.18] perception does define reality -[3984.18 --> 3986.48] or at least your experience of it. -[3987.16 --> 3988.88] And if that's where you are, -[3989.06 --> 3989.98] if you're in the middle -[3989.98 --> 3991.90] of that dark night of the soul, -[3992.02 --> 3994.06] in the middle of that present suffering, -[3994.06 --> 3996.18] and you can't see the edges, -[3997.66 --> 3999.78] let me be really clear. -[4000.98 --> 4002.66] We want to jump in with you. -[4004.54 --> 4005.06] Right? -[4005.06 --> 4006.38] I don't say that just for myself. -[4007.60 --> 4008.04] Right? -[4008.04 --> 4009.70] We want to enter into that with you. -[4009.70 --> 4011.44] I mean that for everyone here, -[4011.50 --> 4012.70] for the pastors who are here, -[4012.80 --> 4013.82] for the elders who are here, -[4013.94 --> 4016.14] for the care groups that are present -[4016.14 --> 4017.08] and do life with you, -[4017.16 --> 4019.38] every person here wants to jump -[4019.38 --> 4020.70] into that with you -[4020.70 --> 4023.54] so that you're not alone -[4023.54 --> 4024.74] in the middle of it. -[4024.74 --> 4026.36] Because sometimes we can't see -[4026.36 --> 4028.00] those edges and so we need people -[4028.00 --> 4029.86] in our lives to remind us -[4029.86 --> 4031.02] that they're there. -[4033.10 --> 4034.34] But for those of us -[4034.34 --> 4035.64] with the eyes to see it, -[4037.08 --> 4038.16] your present sufferings -[4038.84 --> 4040.84] are not the end of the story. -[4040.84 --> 4043.40] So let's not make it the end -[4043.40 --> 4044.16] of your story. -[4045.72 --> 4045.84] Right? -[4045.88 --> 4046.62] As Christians, -[4047.04 --> 4049.70] we believe that only God -[4049.70 --> 4050.70] is infinite. -[4051.10 --> 4052.34] That nothing else is -[4052.34 --> 4054.14] nor nothing else can be. -[4054.52 --> 4056.34] Only God is infinite. -[4057.24 --> 4059.18] Now, I don't want to get bogged down -[4059.18 --> 4060.10] in the particulars -[4060.10 --> 4061.16] of the doctrine of God, -[4061.22 --> 4062.26] but I do want to give you -[4062.26 --> 4062.92] some of it. -[4063.30 --> 4063.64] And so, -[4063.88 --> 4065.46] as Christians, -[4065.84 --> 4066.84] we believe, -[4066.94 --> 4067.96] and I'm going to use the words -[4067.96 --> 4069.58] of the Belgic Confession here, -[4070.52 --> 4071.96] we believe that there is -[4071.96 --> 4073.82] a single and simple -[4073.82 --> 4075.26] spiritual being -[4075.26 --> 4077.02] whom we call God, -[4077.80 --> 4079.54] who is eternal, -[4080.22 --> 4081.14] incomprehensible, -[4081.50 --> 4081.96] invisible, -[4082.38 --> 4083.14] unchangeable, -[4083.42 --> 4083.84] infinite, -[4084.22 --> 4084.66] almighty, -[4085.22 --> 4086.22] completely wise, -[4086.42 --> 4087.16] just and good, -[4087.26 --> 4088.76] and the overflowing source -[4088.76 --> 4090.30] of all good. -[4092.56 --> 4094.54] Now, sometimes you might hear -[4094.54 --> 4096.08] all of that summarized -[4096.08 --> 4098.14] in those omni words, -[4098.26 --> 4098.44] right? -[4099.08 --> 4099.62] Omnipotent, -[4099.72 --> 4100.94] which means all-powerful, -[4101.32 --> 4101.92] omniscient, -[4102.04 --> 4103.14] which means all-knowing, -[4103.50 --> 4104.14] omnipresent, -[4104.34 --> 4105.56] which means everywhere present, -[4105.96 --> 4107.46] and omnibenevolent, -[4107.60 --> 4108.42] which means all -[4108.42 --> 4109.94] or supremely good. -[4111.14 --> 4111.26] Right? -[4111.64 --> 4112.88] God alone -[4112.88 --> 4114.64] is infinite. -[4115.10 --> 4116.32] Your present struggles -[4116.32 --> 4117.54] are not. -[4119.76 --> 4121.06] Because you are not. -[4121.56 --> 4122.32] And because the world -[4122.32 --> 4123.14] you live in -[4123.14 --> 4124.00] is not. -[4124.00 --> 4125.92] And so now, -[4126.12 --> 4127.22] track this with me, -[4127.30 --> 4127.46] right? -[4127.74 --> 4129.08] If God is infinite -[4129.08 --> 4130.22] and God invites you -[4130.22 --> 4130.92] to Himself, -[4131.24 --> 4132.42] He is inviting you -[4132.42 --> 4133.18] to see, -[4133.62 --> 4134.64] to taste, -[4134.86 --> 4135.90] and to touch. -[4136.32 --> 4137.62] And remember that image -[4137.62 --> 4138.54] when we come to the table -[4138.54 --> 4139.24] in just a moment, -[4139.34 --> 4139.50] right? -[4139.56 --> 4140.96] God is inviting you -[4140.96 --> 4142.02] to see Himself. -[4142.54 --> 4143.50] He is inviting you -[4143.50 --> 4145.14] to see His infinity. -[4145.86 --> 4147.56] That is glory. -[4149.78 --> 4151.56] Our present sufferings -[4151.56 --> 4152.90] are not worth comparing -[4152.90 --> 4154.36] with the glory -[4154.36 --> 4155.52] that will be revealed -[4155.52 --> 4156.54] in us. -[4158.14 --> 4159.64] One person that I read -[4159.64 --> 4160.12] this week, -[4160.78 --> 4161.40] he said this. -[4161.46 --> 4161.70] He said, -[4162.22 --> 4163.64] the glory of God -[4163.64 --> 4165.28] is the manifest beauty -[4165.28 --> 4166.72] of His holiness. -[4168.06 --> 4168.96] His holiness -[4168.96 --> 4171.16] is what He is as God -[4171.16 --> 4172.58] that nobody else is. -[4173.64 --> 4174.88] It is His quality -[4174.88 --> 4175.70] of perfection -[4175.70 --> 4177.26] that can't be improved upon, -[4177.36 --> 4178.38] that can't be imitated, -[4178.68 --> 4179.74] that is incomparable, -[4179.74 --> 4181.46] that determines all that He is -[4181.46 --> 4182.18] and is determined -[4182.18 --> 4182.80] by nothing -[4182.80 --> 4183.86] from outside of Him. -[4184.42 --> 4185.42] It signifies -[4185.42 --> 4186.44] His infinite worth, -[4186.54 --> 4187.54] His intrinsic, -[4187.82 --> 4189.20] infinite value. -[4190.48 --> 4191.96] The glory of God -[4191.96 --> 4193.52] is the going public -[4193.52 --> 4194.94] of His holiness. -[4199.14 --> 4201.84] There's a preacher -[4201.84 --> 4202.88] and theologian -[4202.88 --> 4204.16] from the 18th century. -[4205.00 --> 4205.62] Jonathan Edwards -[4205.62 --> 4206.26] is his name, -[4206.26 --> 4208.52] and he meditates -[4208.52 --> 4209.32] and reflects -[4209.32 --> 4210.42] upon the glory -[4210.42 --> 4211.02] of God -[4211.02 --> 4212.46] in a poetic -[4212.46 --> 4213.50] and beautiful way -[4213.50 --> 4215.32] like few other theologians -[4215.32 --> 4216.96] in the past have. -[4217.78 --> 4218.68] And he says -[4218.68 --> 4220.22] that the glory -[4220.22 --> 4220.98] of God -[4220.98 --> 4222.28] is the communication -[4222.28 --> 4223.78] of the infinite -[4223.78 --> 4225.28] fullness of God -[4225.28 --> 4226.58] to the creature. -[4229.48 --> 4230.86] Let me put that -[4230.86 --> 4231.32] another way. -[4232.68 --> 4233.28] Glory -[4233.28 --> 4235.00] is what you see -[4235.00 --> 4236.62] when God reveals Himself. -[4239.00 --> 4239.70] Okay, remember that. -[4239.78 --> 4240.12] Glory -[4240.12 --> 4241.12] is what you see -[4241.12 --> 4242.68] when God reveals Himself. -[4243.76 --> 4245.14] So take this all now, -[4245.52 --> 4246.60] this who God is -[4246.60 --> 4247.64] and what He is revealing -[4247.64 --> 4248.44] of Himself, -[4248.56 --> 4249.18] take that back -[4249.18 --> 4249.94] to verse 18. -[4250.86 --> 4251.56] I consider -[4251.56 --> 4252.82] that our present sufferings -[4252.82 --> 4254.04] are not worth comparing -[4254.04 --> 4254.94] to the glory -[4254.94 --> 4256.24] that will be revealed -[4256.24 --> 4256.88] in us -[4256.88 --> 4258.06] or to us. -[4258.90 --> 4259.64] The glory -[4259.64 --> 4260.60] that will be revealed -[4260.60 --> 4261.40] to us -[4261.40 --> 4262.90] is God Himself. -[4263.28 --> 4265.38] And I'll put it -[4265.38 --> 4265.98] real simply, -[4266.34 --> 4267.88] there ain't nothing -[4267.88 --> 4269.04] bigger or better -[4269.04 --> 4270.10] than God Himself. -[4272.10 --> 4274.24] Your present sufferings -[4274.24 --> 4275.76] actually do -[4275.76 --> 4277.38] pale and Paul -[4277.38 --> 4278.38] in comparison -[4278.38 --> 4281.00] to who God is. -[4284.50 --> 4286.08] Revelation 21 -[4286.08 --> 4287.36] tells us -[4287.36 --> 4287.92] how this -[4287.92 --> 4289.00] will happen. -[4289.78 --> 4290.38] We're going to put -[4290.38 --> 4290.96] three verses -[4290.96 --> 4291.80] on the screen -[4291.80 --> 4292.50] overhead, -[4292.66 --> 4293.36] but I'm going to -[4293.36 --> 4294.14] invert the order -[4294.14 --> 4295.02] that I read them -[4295.02 --> 4295.92] so that you can see -[4295.92 --> 4296.64] the logic here. -[4297.30 --> 4298.12] In Revelation 21 -[4298.12 --> 4298.74] verse 5 -[4298.74 --> 4299.38] we read, -[4300.22 --> 4300.98] He will wipe away -[4300.98 --> 4301.78] every tear -[4301.78 --> 4302.58] from their eyes -[4302.58 --> 4302.98] and there will be -[4302.98 --> 4303.70] no more death -[4303.70 --> 4304.38] or mourning -[4304.38 --> 4305.08] or crying -[4305.08 --> 4305.66] or pain -[4305.66 --> 4306.68] for the old order -[4306.68 --> 4307.76] has passed away. -[4309.14 --> 4309.98] Now how does this happen? -[4310.44 --> 4311.44] Why does that happen? -[4312.44 --> 4312.94] In the verses -[4312.94 --> 4313.54] right before, -[4313.68 --> 4314.16] John says, -[4314.16 --> 4314.86] look, -[4315.62 --> 4317.20] God's dwelling place -[4317.20 --> 4317.92] is now -[4317.92 --> 4319.34] among the people -[4319.34 --> 4321.26] and He dwells -[4321.26 --> 4322.34] with them. -[4324.32 --> 4325.40] God is there -[4325.40 --> 4326.98] and you can see Him. -[4327.76 --> 4329.34] That's the future glory -[4329.34 --> 4330.96] that now works backwards -[4330.96 --> 4332.80] to make your present sufferings -[4332.80 --> 4334.00] incomparable -[4334.00 --> 4335.40] to that reality. -[4336.10 --> 4336.58] And again, -[4336.70 --> 4337.82] we're not minimizing -[4337.82 --> 4339.18] your present sufferings, -[4339.30 --> 4340.66] we're maximizing -[4340.66 --> 4342.04] what we will see -[4342.04 --> 4343.06] when we look to God -[4343.06 --> 4343.62] at the end. -[4344.94 --> 4345.92] And for Paul, -[4346.16 --> 4348.04] here in Romans 8, -[4348.48 --> 4349.86] one of the ways -[4349.86 --> 4350.68] that you can know -[4350.68 --> 4351.90] this to be true -[4351.90 --> 4353.98] is by looking -[4353.98 --> 4355.20] at creation itself. -[4356.72 --> 4357.96] In verse 19, -[4358.72 --> 4359.62] Paul writes, -[4360.82 --> 4361.62] for the creation -[4361.62 --> 4363.68] waits an eager expectation -[4363.68 --> 4365.36] for the children of God -[4365.36 --> 4366.70] to be revealed. -[4368.22 --> 4370.30] Even the creation itself, -[4370.70 --> 4371.82] the very world -[4371.82 --> 4372.60] and universe -[4372.60 --> 4373.74] that we live in -[4373.74 --> 4375.62] is waiting for the day -[4375.62 --> 4377.50] when God's dwelling place -[4377.50 --> 4379.92] will be among His people. -[4380.38 --> 4381.50] Creation is waiting -[4381.50 --> 4382.34] for the day -[4382.34 --> 4383.70] when creation -[4383.70 --> 4384.94] will be restored -[4384.94 --> 4386.80] to its original design -[4386.80 --> 4387.74] and intent -[4387.74 --> 4388.58] and purpose -[4388.58 --> 4389.48] from God. -[4390.14 --> 4391.66] For the creation -[4391.66 --> 4392.88] was subjected -[4392.88 --> 4394.60] to frustration, -[4395.28 --> 4396.70] not by its own choice, -[4396.80 --> 4397.60] but by the will -[4397.60 --> 4398.18] of the one -[4398.18 --> 4399.00] who subjected it, -[4399.04 --> 4399.56] that is God, -[4399.56 --> 4400.52] in the hope -[4400.52 --> 4402.34] that creation itself -[4402.34 --> 4403.38] will be liberated -[4403.38 --> 4405.28] from its bondage -[4405.28 --> 4406.90] to decay -[4406.90 --> 4408.72] and then brought -[4408.72 --> 4409.56] into the freedom -[4409.56 --> 4410.86] and glory -[4410.86 --> 4411.74] of the children -[4411.74 --> 4413.20] of God. -[4414.88 --> 4416.72] The through line -[4416.72 --> 4418.90] of the theological argument -[4418.90 --> 4420.50] that Paul has been stacking -[4420.50 --> 4422.20] on through the book -[4422.20 --> 4422.88] of Romans -[4422.88 --> 4424.84] is that when Adam -[4424.84 --> 4425.56] and Eve -[4425.56 --> 4427.04] rebelled against God -[4427.04 --> 4428.16] in the Garden of Eden, -[4428.16 --> 4429.36] all of humanity, -[4429.52 --> 4430.50] all of their descendants -[4430.50 --> 4431.14] after them -[4431.14 --> 4432.36] fell into sin -[4432.36 --> 4433.80] and now -[4433.80 --> 4434.64] all of us -[4434.64 --> 4435.60] by the result -[4435.60 --> 4436.94] of that action -[4436.94 --> 4438.02] are impacted -[4438.02 --> 4439.22] by sin. -[4439.40 --> 4440.70] Everything we do -[4440.70 --> 4441.90] is in some way -[4441.90 --> 4442.50] marred -[4442.50 --> 4443.42] or stained -[4443.42 --> 4444.88] by sin. -[4445.88 --> 4446.06] Now, -[4446.12 --> 4447.00] let me be really clear -[4447.00 --> 4447.76] when I say that, -[4447.82 --> 4447.94] right? -[4448.10 --> 4449.42] That doesn't mean -[4449.42 --> 4450.74] that you are as bad -[4450.74 --> 4452.08] as you possibly could be. -[4452.80 --> 4454.24] That's a mistaken way -[4454.24 --> 4455.76] to read the Bible. -[4455.76 --> 4457.00] The Bible doesn't say -[4457.00 --> 4458.18] that about humanity. -[4458.34 --> 4459.36] The Bible says -[4459.36 --> 4460.32] that humanity -[4460.32 --> 4461.60] struggles with sin -[4461.60 --> 4462.70] in everything, -[4463.02 --> 4464.26] in every area -[4464.26 --> 4465.46] of their life. -[4465.58 --> 4466.32] Its effects -[4466.32 --> 4467.48] are pervasive -[4467.48 --> 4468.92] and so our desires, -[4469.12 --> 4469.62] our wills, -[4469.68 --> 4470.10] our minds, -[4470.24 --> 4470.84] our bodies -[4470.84 --> 4472.24] are all impacted -[4472.24 --> 4473.34] by the presence -[4473.34 --> 4473.78] of sin. -[4474.76 --> 4475.22] And now, -[4475.38 --> 4478.44] what Paul is advancing here, -[4478.56 --> 4479.68] what we're learning here, -[4480.44 --> 4482.76] is that creation itself -[4482.76 --> 4485.84] reflects that same frustration. -[4487.62 --> 4487.88] Right? -[4487.92 --> 4488.96] Because humanity, -[4489.18 --> 4490.86] as the crown of creation, -[4491.30 --> 4492.52] rebelled against God -[4492.52 --> 4493.58] and is now affected -[4493.58 --> 4494.62] by sin, -[4494.74 --> 4496.28] so too is everything -[4496.28 --> 4498.72] that flows from humanity -[4498.72 --> 4501.16] in that sort of creation hierarchy -[4501.16 --> 4502.06] that exists. -[4502.76 --> 4502.86] Right? -[4502.88 --> 4504.30] The frustration of creation -[4504.30 --> 4504.98] to sin -[4504.98 --> 4505.72] is because, -[4506.28 --> 4507.44] or because of sin, -[4507.76 --> 4508.50] is a symbol -[4508.50 --> 4510.52] of our own frustration -[4510.52 --> 4511.36] in the world. -[4511.36 --> 4513.06] And that symbol -[4513.06 --> 4514.16] doesn't just stop -[4514.16 --> 4514.84] reflecting -[4514.84 --> 4516.52] the current reality, -[4516.88 --> 4517.84] that symbol -[4517.84 --> 4518.68] extends -[4518.68 --> 4520.70] to the hoped-for reality -[4520.70 --> 4521.92] of a new creation, -[4522.20 --> 4523.24] of a renewed earth. -[4524.66 --> 4525.16] And so, -[4525.32 --> 4526.40] very clearly, -[4527.48 --> 4527.82] right, -[4527.90 --> 4528.92] very clearly -[4528.92 --> 4530.34] in the world today, -[4530.54 --> 4532.52] you don't have to look far -[4532.52 --> 4533.20] to see -[4533.20 --> 4534.20] how creation -[4534.20 --> 4535.26] is frustrated. -[4536.80 --> 4537.10] Right? -[4537.16 --> 4538.88] Across our country, -[4539.04 --> 4540.34] there are wildfires -[4540.34 --> 4541.00] that are burning -[4541.00 --> 4541.90] out of control. -[4543.14 --> 4543.28] Right? -[4543.38 --> 4545.78] And where there aren't fires, -[4545.98 --> 4546.86] there's smoke -[4546.86 --> 4547.54] that's causing -[4547.54 --> 4549.42] poor air quality warnings -[4549.42 --> 4550.60] in a huge region. -[4551.84 --> 4552.98] In some regions -[4552.98 --> 4553.84] of the world, -[4553.94 --> 4554.56] there is drought -[4554.56 --> 4555.86] that is leading to famine, -[4556.12 --> 4557.02] and in other places, -[4557.02 --> 4557.94] there is flooding -[4557.94 --> 4558.94] that is destroying -[4558.94 --> 4560.06] homes and cities. -[4561.42 --> 4562.12] And we know -[4562.12 --> 4563.16] that communities -[4563.16 --> 4564.28] on the margins -[4564.28 --> 4566.22] are disproportionately affected -[4566.22 --> 4567.86] by the impact -[4567.86 --> 4568.46] of the climate. -[4569.10 --> 4569.58] We know -[4569.58 --> 4570.42] that biodiversity -[4570.42 --> 4571.30] rates, -[4571.86 --> 4574.14] the range -[4574.14 --> 4575.22] of speciation -[4575.22 --> 4575.82] that occurs -[4575.82 --> 4576.62] in the world, -[4576.96 --> 4578.36] biodiversity rates -[4578.36 --> 4579.04] are dropping -[4579.04 --> 4580.30] as people move -[4580.30 --> 4581.10] more and more -[4581.10 --> 4582.10] into previously -[4582.10 --> 4583.68] wildland areas -[4583.68 --> 4585.10] and take it over. -[4586.24 --> 4587.10] Right now, -[4587.22 --> 4588.46] in the Pacific Ocean, -[4589.16 --> 4590.24] there is a garbage -[4590.24 --> 4591.56] island floating around -[4591.56 --> 4592.42] that is larger -[4592.42 --> 4593.22] than the province -[4593.22 --> 4593.72] of BC. -[4595.46 --> 4596.48] Think about that. -[4599.28 --> 4600.56] It's not a stretch -[4600.56 --> 4601.28] to see -[4601.28 --> 4602.40] how creation -[4602.40 --> 4603.50] is in bondage -[4603.50 --> 4604.06] to decay. -[4605.44 --> 4605.68] Right? -[4605.72 --> 4606.16] And in fact, -[4606.30 --> 4607.18] it's not just -[4607.18 --> 4608.10] that little picture -[4608.10 --> 4609.12] of planet Earth. -[4609.80 --> 4610.18] Right? -[4610.20 --> 4611.02] The whole universe -[4611.02 --> 4612.10] is in bondage -[4612.10 --> 4612.60] to decay. -[4613.34 --> 4613.54] Now, -[4613.58 --> 4614.56] I'm not an expert here, -[4614.64 --> 4615.26] and so I trust -[4615.26 --> 4616.38] that Ken is going -[4616.38 --> 4617.44] to correct me afterwards. -[4617.68 --> 4617.84] Ken, -[4617.88 --> 4618.44] I'm looking at you. -[4618.76 --> 4619.54] But in physics -[4619.54 --> 4620.44] and in engineering, -[4620.82 --> 4621.54] the second law -[4621.54 --> 4622.44] of thermodynamics, -[4622.66 --> 4623.20] the law of energy, -[4623.22 --> 4623.60] entropy, -[4624.18 --> 4625.06] says that since -[4625.06 --> 4626.98] energy can neither -[4626.98 --> 4627.50] be created -[4627.50 --> 4628.18] nor destroyed, -[4628.38 --> 4629.50] systems will always -[4629.50 --> 4630.64] move from increased -[4630.64 --> 4631.28] organization -[4631.28 --> 4632.24] to decreased -[4632.24 --> 4633.28] organization. -[4633.50 --> 4634.16] That will happen -[4634.16 --> 4634.60] naturally. -[4635.10 --> 4635.60] And so physicists -[4635.60 --> 4636.48] talk literally -[4636.48 --> 4637.24] about the Earth -[4637.24 --> 4638.36] flattening out, -[4638.46 --> 4639.06] or the universe -[4639.06 --> 4640.50] flattening out. -[4642.90 --> 4644.00] Right now, -[4644.36 --> 4645.22] there is only -[4645.22 --> 4646.12] death -[4646.12 --> 4647.50] and decomposition. -[4648.50 --> 4648.96] Everything -[4648.96 --> 4649.76] is running -[4649.76 --> 4650.68] down. -[4651.48 --> 4652.08] One person -[4652.08 --> 4652.72] said, -[4652.88 --> 4653.12] nature -[4653.12 --> 4653.90] is currently -[4653.90 --> 4654.50] a killer. -[4657.54 --> 4658.66] But none -[4658.66 --> 4659.32] of that -[4659.32 --> 4660.78] is the last -[4660.78 --> 4661.16] word. -[4662.86 --> 4662.96] Right? -[4663.04 --> 4663.50] Creation -[4663.50 --> 4664.14] itself -[4664.14 --> 4664.90] will be -[4664.90 --> 4665.44] liberated. -[4666.00 --> 4666.56] And instead -[4666.56 --> 4667.38] of frustration, -[4667.84 --> 4668.38] there will be -[4668.38 --> 4669.00] fulfillment. -[4669.66 --> 4670.12] Instead of -[4670.12 --> 4670.58] bondage -[4670.58 --> 4671.08] to decay, -[4671.24 --> 4671.64] there will be -[4671.64 --> 4672.24] beauty -[4672.24 --> 4673.08] and endless -[4673.08 --> 4673.64] delight. -[4674.08 --> 4674.18] Right? -[4674.26 --> 4674.98] Even with -[4674.98 --> 4676.20] all the frustrations -[4676.20 --> 4676.96] that are visible -[4676.96 --> 4677.76] in the world -[4677.76 --> 4678.22] today, -[4678.22 --> 4679.48] it is still -[4679.48 --> 4680.88] easy to find -[4680.88 --> 4682.40] majestic beauty -[4682.40 --> 4683.58] in creation. -[4684.10 --> 4684.82] Especially -[4684.82 --> 4685.84] when we live -[4685.84 --> 4686.14] here, -[4686.22 --> 4686.44] right? -[4686.54 --> 4687.20] Surrounded by -[4687.20 --> 4688.18] mountains and -[4688.18 --> 4688.70] lakes and -[4688.70 --> 4690.54] ancient rainforests. -[4690.54 --> 4691.32] And so it's -[4691.32 --> 4692.74] almost impossible, -[4693.32 --> 4693.80] it's almost -[4693.80 --> 4694.82] unfathomable -[4694.82 --> 4696.82] to imagine -[4696.82 --> 4697.68] what the world -[4697.68 --> 4698.82] will be like -[4698.82 --> 4699.42] then. -[4702.42 --> 4703.36] You think -[4703.36 --> 4704.18] camp is awesome. -[4705.38 --> 4706.18] Just wait. -[4706.18 --> 4708.50] Right? -[4708.56 --> 4709.02] Instead of -[4709.02 --> 4709.58] things getting -[4709.58 --> 4710.72] older and -[4710.72 --> 4711.60] weaker and -[4711.60 --> 4712.68] flattening out, -[4713.12 --> 4713.76] there will be -[4713.76 --> 4714.78] a new and -[4714.78 --> 4715.94] a beauty and -[4715.94 --> 4717.08] a strength, -[4717.24 --> 4718.70] a foreverness -[4718.70 --> 4719.76] to the world. -[4719.98 --> 4720.46] Instead of -[4720.46 --> 4721.28] pain and -[4721.28 --> 4722.28] present suffering, -[4722.52 --> 4723.02] there will be -[4723.02 --> 4724.06] only joy in -[4724.06 --> 4724.74] the glory of -[4724.74 --> 4725.60] God because -[4725.60 --> 4726.82] God is here -[4726.82 --> 4727.30] and has made -[4727.30 --> 4727.88] His dwelling -[4727.88 --> 4729.10] among us. -[4732.62 --> 4733.18] Now, -[4733.38 --> 4734.84] I don't want -[4734.84 --> 4735.78] to stay on -[4735.78 --> 4736.30] this point for -[4736.30 --> 4737.02] too long because -[4737.02 --> 4737.48] I don't want -[4737.48 --> 4738.10] to detract from -[4738.10 --> 4738.80] the bigger point -[4738.80 --> 4739.84] that Paul is -[4739.84 --> 4740.46] making here, -[4740.54 --> 4741.34] but we have -[4741.34 --> 4742.00] to at least -[4742.00 --> 4743.00] acknowledge this. -[4743.64 --> 4743.90] Right? -[4744.00 --> 4745.00] This view of -[4745.00 --> 4746.86] creation regained, -[4747.06 --> 4748.14] this view of -[4748.14 --> 4748.76] the universe -[4748.76 --> 4749.54] restored, -[4750.14 --> 4751.36] is for us -[4751.36 --> 4752.12] as Christians -[4752.12 --> 4752.94] who believe -[4752.94 --> 4753.62] in the truth -[4753.62 --> 4754.42] of the Bible -[4754.42 --> 4755.90] a motivating -[4755.90 --> 4757.08] force to go -[4757.08 --> 4757.70] out into -[4757.70 --> 4758.20] the world -[4758.20 --> 4759.24] now and -[4759.24 --> 4760.06] live in the -[4760.06 --> 4760.98] hope of -[4760.98 --> 4761.92] this restoration. -[4761.92 --> 4762.04] creation. -[4763.04 --> 4763.84] And so, -[4764.02 --> 4764.96] we are not -[4764.96 --> 4766.40] overcome by -[4766.40 --> 4767.36] the fear of -[4767.36 --> 4768.54] climate change, -[4768.90 --> 4769.82] but we are -[4769.82 --> 4770.76] actively trying -[4770.76 --> 4771.54] to hold it -[4771.54 --> 4772.44] at bay as -[4772.44 --> 4773.20] a picture of -[4773.20 --> 4773.56] what God -[4773.56 --> 4774.20] promised to -[4774.20 --> 4775.28] do in the -[4775.28 --> 4775.60] world. -[4776.78 --> 4777.22] And we -[4777.22 --> 4778.12] recognize that -[4778.12 --> 4778.98] creation is -[4778.98 --> 4779.72] subject to -[4779.72 --> 4780.54] frustration -[4780.54 --> 4781.70] because of -[4781.70 --> 4782.36] human sin, -[4782.48 --> 4783.66] and so we -[4783.66 --> 4784.36] fight against -[4784.36 --> 4785.66] human sin that -[4785.66 --> 4786.84] perpetuates the -[4786.84 --> 4787.50] frustration of -[4787.50 --> 4787.98] creation. -[4787.98 --> 4790.40] that the -[4790.40 --> 4790.94] fact that -[4790.94 --> 4791.72] God will -[4791.72 --> 4792.88] renew the -[4792.88 --> 4793.88] world doesn't -[4793.88 --> 4794.96] stop us from -[4794.96 --> 4795.88] living towards -[4795.88 --> 4797.32] the goal of -[4797.32 --> 4797.76] a renewed -[4797.76 --> 4798.40] world now. -[4799.36 --> 4800.62] It spurs our -[4800.62 --> 4802.04] action forward. -[4802.86 --> 4802.94] Right? -[4803.00 --> 4803.82] Humanity has -[4803.82 --> 4804.24] been given -[4804.24 --> 4804.98] charge to -[4804.98 --> 4806.04] care for and -[4806.04 --> 4806.76] to cultivate -[4806.76 --> 4807.82] this world, -[4808.08 --> 4808.84] and our shared -[4808.84 --> 4809.62] rebellion and -[4809.62 --> 4810.60] fall into sin -[4810.60 --> 4811.72] doesn't end -[4811.72 --> 4812.80] that call. -[4813.06 --> 4813.60] Hear that -[4813.60 --> 4814.44] very clearly. -[4814.92 --> 4815.48] And the -[4815.48 --> 4816.34] reality of sin -[4816.34 --> 4817.20] makes living -[4817.20 --> 4818.62] in response to -[4818.62 --> 4819.38] that call much -[4819.38 --> 4820.12] more difficult. -[4820.56 --> 4821.00] Absolutely. -[4821.42 --> 4821.74] But the -[4821.74 --> 4823.30] responsibility is -[4823.30 --> 4824.68] still there. -[4828.52 --> 4829.28] Now Paul -[4829.28 --> 4830.98] continues his -[4830.98 --> 4831.34] metaphor. -[4832.02 --> 4832.60] He continues -[4832.60 --> 4833.14] his metaphor -[4833.14 --> 4834.18] for the -[4834.18 --> 4835.22] endurance of -[4835.22 --> 4835.72] present -[4835.72 --> 4837.70] sufferings by -[4837.70 --> 4839.52] listing and -[4839.52 --> 4840.72] comparing three -[4840.72 --> 4842.48] instances of -[4842.48 --> 4843.10] groaning. -[4843.60 --> 4844.02] And this is -[4844.02 --> 4844.30] what we're going -[4844.30 --> 4844.84] to look at to -[4844.84 --> 4846.28] wrap us up and -[4846.28 --> 4846.80] to bring us to -[4846.80 --> 4847.18] the table. -[4849.00 --> 4850.16] In verse 22, -[4850.60 --> 4853.10] we read that -[4853.10 --> 4853.92] the whole -[4853.92 --> 4855.14] creation has -[4855.14 --> 4855.94] been groaning -[4855.94 --> 4856.56] as in the -[4856.56 --> 4857.18] pains of -[4857.18 --> 4858.26] childbirth right -[4858.26 --> 4859.18] up to the -[4859.18 --> 4859.74] present time. -[4860.26 --> 4860.56] And then in -[4860.56 --> 4861.16] verse 23, -[4861.38 --> 4862.10] you read that -[4862.10 --> 4862.64] we groan -[4862.64 --> 4863.56] inwardly as -[4863.56 --> 4864.16] we await our -[4864.16 --> 4864.82] adoption, our -[4864.82 --> 4865.16] redemption. -[4865.92 --> 4866.34] And then in -[4866.34 --> 4867.76] 26, we read -[4867.76 --> 4868.40] that the Spirit -[4868.40 --> 4869.74] himself intercedes -[4869.74 --> 4870.54] for us with -[4870.54 --> 4872.08] wordless groans. -[4873.22 --> 4873.96] Now all of -[4873.96 --> 4874.86] this groaning -[4874.86 --> 4875.72] groaning is a -[4875.72 --> 4877.30] word picture to -[4877.30 --> 4878.66] help you endure -[4878.66 --> 4880.00] whatever present -[4880.00 --> 4881.12] struggle you -[4881.12 --> 4881.80] might be in. -[4882.92 --> 4883.72] All of this -[4883.72 --> 4884.68] groaning is to -[4884.68 --> 4885.08] help you -[4885.08 --> 4886.08] captivate and -[4886.08 --> 4887.84] be captivated by -[4887.84 --> 4888.96] a vision of -[4888.96 --> 4889.72] that future -[4889.72 --> 4890.52] glory. -[4892.12 --> 4892.66] And so like we -[4892.66 --> 4893.52] said in 22, -[4893.72 --> 4894.28] Paul says that -[4894.28 --> 4895.30] creation has been -[4895.30 --> 4896.20] groaning in the -[4896.20 --> 4896.68] pangs of -[4896.68 --> 4897.48] childbirth right -[4897.48 --> 4898.48] up to the -[4898.48 --> 4899.04] present time. -[4900.16 --> 4901.14] This is an -[4901.14 --> 4902.88] excellent image for -[4902.88 --> 4903.62] what Paul has -[4903.62 --> 4904.06] been showing -[4904.06 --> 4904.48] us. -[4905.36 --> 4905.96] If you've ever -[4905.96 --> 4906.88] given birth or -[4906.88 --> 4907.48] if you've watched -[4907.48 --> 4908.58] someone give -[4908.58 --> 4909.98] birth, you know -[4909.98 --> 4910.92] how immensely -[4910.92 --> 4912.06] painful it is. -[4913.42 --> 4914.28] Now let's be -[4914.28 --> 4914.92] clear, right, if -[4914.92 --> 4915.50] you've only ever -[4915.50 --> 4916.22] watched it, you -[4916.22 --> 4917.12] have an idea, you -[4917.12 --> 4917.64] don't actually -[4917.64 --> 4918.64] know, so don't -[4918.64 --> 4919.16] pretend to take -[4919.16 --> 4919.66] credit for it. -[4919.72 --> 4920.20] My wife is -[4920.20 --> 4920.74] saying thank you -[4920.74 --> 4921.28] for clarifying -[4921.28 --> 4921.52] that. -[4922.94 --> 4923.72] But what you -[4923.72 --> 4925.14] see, right, is -[4925.14 --> 4926.66] that the pain of -[4926.66 --> 4928.74] childbirth proves -[4928.74 --> 4930.78] worth it when you -[4930.78 --> 4931.50] hold your child. -[4931.50 --> 4933.90] The suffering of -[4933.90 --> 4935.24] labor and delivery -[4935.24 --> 4936.42] is worth the -[4936.42 --> 4937.56] future glory of -[4937.56 --> 4938.56] holding your son -[4938.56 --> 4939.54] or your daughter. -[4940.62 --> 4941.34] And like I said, -[4941.42 --> 4942.64] I've never given -[4942.64 --> 4944.74] birth, but I -[4944.74 --> 4945.52] know that this is -[4945.52 --> 4946.52] true because for -[4946.52 --> 4947.54] the vast majority -[4947.54 --> 4948.72] of human history, -[4949.18 --> 4950.06] most women who -[4950.06 --> 4950.92] have given birth -[4950.92 --> 4951.88] have done it more -[4951.88 --> 4952.42] than once. -[4954.26 --> 4955.96] Quite simply, if -[4955.96 --> 4956.52] it wasn't worth -[4956.52 --> 4957.66] it, she wouldn't -[4957.66 --> 4958.18] do it twice. -[4958.18 --> 4958.24] else. -[4961.32 --> 4963.36] Similarly, we -[4963.36 --> 4965.92] groan inwardly as -[4965.92 --> 4966.42] we wait. -[4967.34 --> 4968.32] As we endure -[4968.32 --> 4969.16] these present -[4969.16 --> 4970.06] sufferings, we -[4970.06 --> 4971.76] groan in hope. -[4972.58 --> 4972.76] Right? -[4972.80 --> 4973.60] We have hope that -[4973.60 --> 4974.92] we are saved, but a -[4974.92 --> 4976.06] hope that is seen is -[4976.06 --> 4977.42] no hope at all, Paul -[4977.42 --> 4977.70] says. -[4977.80 --> 4978.62] The point is that -[4978.62 --> 4979.98] even though you -[4979.98 --> 4981.56] can't see the future -[4981.56 --> 4983.56] glory, you can see -[4983.56 --> 4984.30] the world around -[4984.30 --> 4984.58] you. -[4984.58 --> 4986.12] Right? -[4986.16 --> 4986.76] And the world -[4986.76 --> 4987.88] around you itself -[4987.88 --> 4989.34] is a picture of -[4989.34 --> 4990.12] what is to come. -[4991.40 --> 4991.90] Right? -[4991.94 --> 4992.70] The picture is -[4992.70 --> 4993.46] subject to -[4993.46 --> 4994.94] frustration, yet -[4994.94 --> 4995.76] in our heart of -[4995.76 --> 4996.88] hearts, right, we -[4996.88 --> 4997.84] look at the great -[4997.84 --> 4999.02] Pacific floating -[4999.02 --> 5000.66] garbage island, and -[5000.66 --> 5001.64] we know that that's -[5001.64 --> 5002.34] not the way it's -[5002.34 --> 5003.04] supposed to be. -[5003.86 --> 5004.94] That that's wrong, -[5005.08 --> 5005.82] and we should do -[5005.82 --> 5006.70] something about it. -[5007.02 --> 5008.48] And we long for a -[5008.48 --> 5009.62] day when that will -[5009.62 --> 5011.54] be made new, a day -[5011.54 --> 5012.32] that God has -[5012.32 --> 5013.90] promised will come. -[5013.90 --> 5014.74] And I pray that -[5014.74 --> 5015.58] that day comes -[5015.58 --> 5016.42] soon. -[5017.42 --> 5018.56] But our inward -[5018.56 --> 5020.02] groaning, even as -[5020.02 --> 5021.10] we look at -[5021.10 --> 5022.48] creation, is in -[5022.48 --> 5024.96] fact a sign that -[5024.96 --> 5026.30] it will come. -[5026.94 --> 5027.66] And so we are -[5027.66 --> 5029.96] sustained in the -[5029.96 --> 5030.64] present suffering. -[5031.72 --> 5035.76] And then lastly, as -[5035.76 --> 5037.86] well, in the -[5037.86 --> 5039.58] present suffering, we -[5039.58 --> 5040.86] are given a -[5040.86 --> 5041.20] gift. -[5041.20 --> 5043.58] In the same way, the -[5043.58 --> 5044.70] Spirit helps us in -[5044.70 --> 5045.36] our weakness. -[5046.28 --> 5047.36] We do not know what -[5047.36 --> 5048.36] we ought to pray for, -[5048.68 --> 5049.28] but the Spirit -[5049.28 --> 5051.06] himself intercedes for -[5051.06 --> 5052.98] us through wordless -[5052.98 --> 5053.74] groans. -[5055.42 --> 5057.00] God gives you his -[5057.00 --> 5059.34] Spirit to help you -[5059.34 --> 5061.04] endure your present -[5061.04 --> 5062.18] sufferings. -[5063.52 --> 5064.78] I cannot tell you how -[5064.78 --> 5065.60] many times I have -[5065.60 --> 5066.66] heard the testimony of -[5066.66 --> 5068.10] people who have gone -[5068.10 --> 5069.56] through some incredibly -[5069.56 --> 5071.06] difficult life -[5071.06 --> 5071.70] challenge. -[5071.94 --> 5073.26] And they look back on -[5073.26 --> 5074.04] that moment and they -[5074.04 --> 5075.88] go, I did not believe -[5075.88 --> 5077.12] it was possible to get -[5077.12 --> 5077.40] through. -[5078.62 --> 5079.78] And yet here I am. -[5080.52 --> 5081.46] That's the Spirit. -[5082.96 --> 5084.92] That's God walking -[5084.92 --> 5086.90] with you in the midst -[5086.90 --> 5087.94] of the seeming -[5087.94 --> 5088.64] impossible. -[5090.48 --> 5091.88] And even when we don't -[5091.88 --> 5093.24] know what to pray for, -[5093.44 --> 5094.16] when our present -[5094.16 --> 5096.44] suffering is so awful, -[5096.44 --> 5097.62] we can't even put it -[5097.62 --> 5100.06] into words, the Spirit -[5100.06 --> 5102.26] himself intercedes -[5102.26 --> 5104.60] with wordless groans. -[5104.74 --> 5104.86] Right? -[5104.98 --> 5106.56] Even as you pray to -[5106.56 --> 5108.32] God, God's Spirit is -[5108.32 --> 5109.38] praying over you. -[5110.32 --> 5111.44] In times when the -[5111.44 --> 5112.92] present struggle feels -[5112.92 --> 5114.52] like an abyss or an -[5114.52 --> 5116.38] ocean crashing over you -[5116.38 --> 5117.52] and you just don't know -[5117.52 --> 5119.02] what to say or what to -[5119.02 --> 5120.52] pray and you just cry, -[5120.76 --> 5121.90] you just groan, -[5122.28 --> 5124.82] that is God with you. -[5124.82 --> 5128.30] causing you to endure -[5128.30 --> 5129.98] by the Spirit. -[5132.10 --> 5133.54] And listen, listen to -[5133.54 --> 5135.40] this promise. -[5135.60 --> 5137.50] The last words of our -[5137.50 --> 5137.84] text. -[5139.12 --> 5140.46] He who searches our -[5140.46 --> 5142.04] hearts knows the mind -[5142.04 --> 5143.36] of the Spirit because -[5143.36 --> 5145.26] the Spirit intercedes for -[5145.26 --> 5146.30] God's people in -[5146.30 --> 5147.50] accordance with the -[5147.50 --> 5149.84] will of God. -[5149.84 --> 5153.18] At the beginning, we -[5153.18 --> 5154.64] started looking at the -[5154.64 --> 5156.52] glory of God. -[5157.56 --> 5159.50] The will of God, the -[5159.50 --> 5161.26] ultimate purpose of God -[5161.26 --> 5162.48] in creating and -[5162.48 --> 5163.94] sustaining and saving -[5163.94 --> 5166.90] the world is His own -[5166.90 --> 5167.76] glory. -[5168.88 --> 5170.66] God's glory will be -[5170.66 --> 5172.32] revealed and His Spirit -[5172.32 --> 5174.06] right here, right now, -[5174.14 --> 5175.88] is interceding for God's -[5175.88 --> 5177.10] people in accordance with -[5177.10 --> 5178.64] that will, with that -[5178.64 --> 5179.58] direction, with that -[5179.58 --> 5180.72] end of history. -[5180.86 --> 5181.88] And so, no matter -[5181.88 --> 5183.84] what, no matter what, -[5184.76 --> 5186.94] our present sufferings -[5186.94 --> 5188.42] are not worth comparing -[5188.42 --> 5190.64] to the glory that will -[5190.64 --> 5193.34] be revealed in us. -[5193.68 --> 5194.00] Amen? -[5196.38 --> 5197.78] Tim Keller has a line. -[5199.40 --> 5200.40] I want to share it with -[5200.40 --> 5201.84] you because, as many of -[5201.84 --> 5203.54] you know, Tim Keller -[5203.54 --> 5204.82] recently died. -[5204.82 --> 5208.10] And overwhelmingly, as -[5208.10 --> 5210.62] eulogies and testimonies -[5210.62 --> 5212.34] of his impact on so many -[5212.34 --> 5213.76] people, myself included, -[5214.16 --> 5215.74] were pouring in online -[5215.74 --> 5217.28] and in person, -[5217.88 --> 5220.54] people said something to -[5220.54 --> 5222.52] the effect of, Tim showed -[5222.52 --> 5224.84] us that no matter how hard -[5224.84 --> 5226.22] life got, whether it was -[5226.22 --> 5228.60] pancreatic cancer or the -[5228.60 --> 5231.58] struggles of being in a -[5231.58 --> 5233.08] cultural limelight and in -[5233.08 --> 5234.74] opposition to the ways of -[5234.74 --> 5236.32] the world, no matter how -[5236.32 --> 5238.90] hard it got, he showed us -[5238.90 --> 5240.16] what it looked like to live -[5240.16 --> 5242.36] faithfully for the glory of -[5242.36 --> 5242.70] God. -[5244.20 --> 5245.62] A couple weeks ago, he died -[5245.62 --> 5246.88] in that hope. -[5247.60 --> 5249.36] Tim Keller has a line that -[5249.36 --> 5249.72] says, -[5250.30 --> 5253.44] all our best days lie ahead -[5253.44 --> 5257.70] of us, and one day all our -[5257.70 --> 5260.18] painful days will lie behind -[5260.18 --> 5260.56] us. -[5264.78 --> 5266.50] I consider that our present -[5266.50 --> 5267.80] sufferings are not worth -[5267.80 --> 5269.98] comparing to the glory that -[5269.98 --> 5272.66] will be revealed in us. -[5274.46 --> 5276.98] And until that day, we gather -[5276.98 --> 5277.36] here. -[5278.12 --> 5280.02] Until that day, we come to -[5280.02 --> 5281.72] this table to be strengthened -[5281.72 --> 5282.84] and nourished. -[5282.94 --> 5284.46] Until that day, we gather -[5284.46 --> 5286.64] together as a church family, -[5287.30 --> 5289.24] that we might receive from -[5289.24 --> 5290.98] God the grace that he -[5290.98 --> 5292.88] offers to us in the word, -[5292.96 --> 5294.30] that we might receive from -[5294.30 --> 5296.38] God the strength and the -[5296.38 --> 5298.28] nourishment to endure. -[5299.18 --> 5300.24] And so in just a moment, we -[5300.24 --> 5302.06] are going to come to the table -[5302.06 --> 5303.18] of our Lord. -[5303.24 --> 5305.52] And as we do, there is a -[5305.52 --> 5306.86] liturgy that we will move -[5306.86 --> 5308.98] through, and then we will come -[5308.98 --> 5310.54] and gather around the table. -[5310.54 --> 5312.36] I will invite you and instruct -[5312.36 --> 5314.26] you on how to do that at the -[5314.26 --> 5314.54] time. -[5314.90 --> 5316.76] As we come to the table, you -[5316.76 --> 5318.68] join your hearts with mine in -[5318.68 --> 5319.60] prayer together. -[5320.00 --> 5320.48] Let's pray. -[5327.72 --> 5329.90] With joy, we praise you, -[5330.12 --> 5332.50] gracious God, for you have -[5332.50 --> 5333.90] created heaven and earth. -[5334.46 --> 5336.14] You have made us in your image -[5336.14 --> 5338.12] and have kept covenant with us, -[5338.28 --> 5340.64] even when we fell into sin. -[5342.36 --> 5344.44] And so here and now, we give -[5344.44 --> 5346.12] you thanks for Jesus Christ, -[5346.52 --> 5348.64] who by his life, death, and -[5348.64 --> 5350.46] resurrection, opened to us the -[5350.46 --> 5352.90] way of life everlasting. -[5355.18 --> 5358.12] It is in Jesus' name that we pray. -[5359.36 --> 5359.70] Amen. -[5359.70 --> 5359.84] Amen. -[5360.90 --> 5361.46] Amen. -[5363.66 --> 5365.24] As we come to the table, I -[5365.24 --> 5367.10] invite you to join in our -[5367.10 --> 5367.98] liturgy. -[5368.36 --> 5369.42] Lift up your hearts. -[5369.42 --> 5374.06] Let us give thanks to the Lord, -[5374.16 --> 5374.72] our God. -[5378.84 --> 5381.88] Our Lord Jesus, before he -[5381.88 --> 5384.62] suffered, gave us this memorial -[5384.62 --> 5387.80] of his sacrifice until he comes -[5387.80 --> 5388.14] again. -[5389.18 --> 5390.92] The Lord Jesus, on the night that -[5390.92 --> 5394.02] he was betrayed, took bread. -[5394.68 --> 5396.96] And when he had given thanks, he -[5396.96 --> 5399.20] broke it and said, this is my -[5399.20 --> 5400.86] body, which is for you. -[5401.52 --> 5404.72] Do this in remembrance of me. -[5407.18 --> 5409.70] In the same way, he took the -[5409.70 --> 5412.38] cup after supper, and he said, -[5412.50 --> 5415.48] this cup is the new covenant in -[5415.48 --> 5416.06] my blood. -[5416.74 --> 5419.90] Do this in remembrance of me. -[5419.90 --> 5423.12] For whenever you eat this bread -[5423.12 --> 5425.24] and drink this cup, you -[5425.24 --> 5426.92] proclaim the Lord's death -[5426.92 --> 5429.48] until he comes again. -[5430.32 --> 5431.86] And so we gather at this table -[5431.86 --> 5434.50] proclaiming the mystery of -[5434.50 --> 5435.80] our faith. -[5437.10 --> 5439.40] Your death, O Christ, we -[5439.40 --> 5439.84] proclaim. -[5440.64 --> 5442.24] Your resurrection, we -[5442.24 --> 5443.30] affirm with joy. -[5444.22 --> 5446.14] Your coming, we await with hope. -[5447.04 --> 5449.08] Glory be to you, Lord Jesus. -[5449.08 --> 5449.24] Jesus. -[5451.40 --> 5453.34] Church family, the Lord has -[5453.34 --> 5455.36] prepared his table for all who -[5455.36 --> 5457.74] love him and who trust in him -[5457.74 --> 5459.42] alone for their salvation. -[5459.98 --> 5462.34] And so, come to this table, you -[5462.34 --> 5464.80] who have much faith and you who -[5464.80 --> 5465.82] would like to have more. -[5466.54 --> 5468.50] Come to this table, you who have -[5468.50 --> 5470.54] been to this sacrament often and -[5470.54 --> 5472.40] you who have not been in a long -[5472.40 --> 5473.02] time. -[5473.14 --> 5474.72] Come to this table, you who have -[5474.72 --> 5477.72] tried to follow Jesus and you who -[5477.72 --> 5478.52] have failed. -[5479.30 --> 5481.54] Come to this table because Jesus -[5481.54 --> 5482.84] Christ is raised. -[5483.22 --> 5484.56] Come to this table because our -[5484.56 --> 5486.36] present sufferings are not worth -[5486.36 --> 5488.62] comparing to the glory that would -[5488.62 --> 5491.22] be revealed in us. -[5491.94 --> 5492.30] Come. -[5492.52 --> 5494.30] If you are here or if you are at -[5494.30 --> 5496.38] home and online, come because it -[5496.38 --> 5499.30] is Christ who invites us to this -[5499.30 --> 5500.26] table. -[5500.80 --> 5503.52] The gifts of God for the people of -[5503.52 --> 5503.84] God. -[5505.84 --> 5508.30] As we come to this table, if you -[5508.30 --> 5510.50] are visiting with us, we do so in a -[5510.50 --> 5512.92] particular way here where we come -[5512.92 --> 5515.54] sort of line by line through the -[5515.54 --> 5517.50] space and we gather in a circle -[5517.50 --> 5519.60] around the table and then you will -[5519.60 --> 5522.62] get the bread and I will pass it to -[5522.62 --> 5524.22] you or an elder will pass it to you -[5524.22 --> 5526.28] and say, the body of Christ given for -[5526.28 --> 5526.52] you. -[5526.66 --> 5529.00] Please repeat that line as you pass it -[5529.00 --> 5531.36] to the person beside you and so on, -[5531.36 --> 5533.82] down and around and likewise with the -[5533.82 --> 5536.16] juice when it comes, we say the blood -[5536.16 --> 5538.34] of Christ shed for you. -[5538.46 --> 5540.44] Please repeat that as you pass down -[5540.44 --> 5541.48] and around. -[5542.86 --> 5544.64] I'm going to invite those who are -[5544.64 --> 5547.12] helping in the service this morning -[5547.12 --> 5549.24] to come up to the first table and -[5549.24 --> 5551.12] then our worship teams will lead us -[5551.12 --> 5554.84] through and we will sing as we go -[5554.84 --> 5556.32] through and then there will be ushers -[5556.32 --> 5558.00] indicating when you can come. -[5558.00 --> 5560.62] As we go through our Lord's Supper -[5560.62 --> 5562.82] together, if you would like, either -[5562.82 --> 5565.02] before coming to the table or instead -[5565.02 --> 5566.30] of coming to the table, if you would -[5566.30 --> 5567.66] like prayer, if you would like someone -[5567.66 --> 5569.68] to meet with you, there are people who -[5569.68 --> 5571.54] will be in the foyer at the back and -[5571.54 --> 5573.14] they will have yellow name tags on. -[5573.36 --> 5573.98] They're available. -[5574.14 --> 5576.86] You can meet with them and pray with -[5576.86 --> 5577.10] them. -[5580.34 --> 5583.92] Also, in each tray is a little bowl of -[5583.92 --> 5586.30] gluten-free bread for those of you who -[5586.30 --> 5587.62] need that as well. -[5588.60 --> 5590.12] Can I invite those who are helping -[5590.12 --> 5591.40] this morning to the front? -[5616.30 --> 5621.06] And I'm hoping that, if you should do -[5621.28 --> 5623.28] need the support of theänder, don't -[5623.48 --> 5624.42] spare them. -[5624.96 --> 5626.12] Then I'll charge them. -[5626.32 --> 5627.40] Shape their lives and ability it -[5627.46 --> 5641.06] towards providing your own -[5641.06 --> 5643.32] office ,aspiracy or the ricotta -[5643.54 --> 5644.56] have been engaging with desires. -[5644.56 --> 5674.54] Thank you. -[5674.56 --> 5704.54] Thank you. -[5704.56 --> 5734.54] Thank you. -[5734.56 --> 5764.54] Thank you. -[5764.56 --> 5794.54] Thank you. -[5794.56 --> 5824.54] Thank you. -[5824.56 --> 5826.56] Thank you. -[5826.56 --> 5828.56] Thank you. -[5856.56 --> 5858.56] Thank you. -[5858.56 --> 5860.56] Thank you. -[5860.56 --> 5862.56] Thank you. -[5862.56 --> 5864.56] Thank you. -[5864.56 --> 5866.56] Thank you. -[5866.56 --> 5868.56] Thank you. -[5868.56 --> 5870.56] Thank you. -[5870.56 --> 5872.56] Thank you. -[5872.56 --> 5874.56] Thank you. -[5874.56 --> 5876.56] Thank you. -[5876.56 --> 5878.56] Thank you. -[5878.56 --> 5882.56] Thank you. -[5882.56 --> 5884.56] Thank you. -[5884.56 --> 5890.56] we plan Our -[5890.56 --> 5894.56] ре Abstiment -[5894.56 --> 5896.56] Yeah. -[5896.56 --> 5904.56] Thank you. -[5904.56 --> 5912.74] We'll wait forever for the victory is yours. -[5915.44 --> 5924.96] Offer God, this sacrifice for every sin. -[5924.96 --> 5931.76] Our Savior died, the Lord of mine. -[5931.76 --> 5934.48] Can't be contained. -[5936.30 --> 5941.52] Our God has risen from the grave. -[5943.10 --> 5948.44] Oh, our God has risen from the grave. -[5954.08 --> 5959.44] Behold the Lamb, the story of redemption. -[5959.44 --> 5963.86] Redemption written on his head. -[5964.58 --> 5972.50] Jesus, you will wait forever for the victory is yours. -[5972.50 --> 5976.50] We sing your praise. -[5978.02 --> 5983.50] Endless hallelujahs to your holy name. -[5984.56 --> 5992.50] Jesus, you will wait forever for the victory is yours. -[5992.50 --> 6007.20] When the age of death is done, we'll see your face. -[6007.20 --> 6018.58] Bright as the sun will bow before the King of kings. -[6018.58 --> 6025.34] Oh, God, forever we will sing. -[6025.34 --> 6040.92] Behold the Lamb, the story of redemption written on his hands. -[6040.92 --> 6050.92] Jesus, you will wait forever for the victory is yours. -[6050.92 --> 6068.92] Jesus, you will wait forever for the victory is yours. -[6068.92 --> 6075.92] You will wait forever for the victory is yours. -[6075.92 --> 6083.92] You will wait forever for the victory is yours. -[6083.92 --> 6088.26] Amen. -[6088.50 --> 6088.92] Amen. -[6107.32 --> 6108.48] Amen. -[6108.48 --> 6125.28] Oh, to see the dawn of the darkest day, -[6125.28 --> 6133.40] Christ on the road to Calvary, -[6133.40 --> 6142.64] Tried by sinful men, torn and beaten, -[6145.26 --> 6152.76] Nailed to a cross of hope. -[6152.76 --> 6162.00] This is the power of the cross, -[6162.00 --> 6170.86] Christ became sin for us, -[6170.86 --> 6177.62] Tuck a blade for the wrath, -[6177.62 --> 6185.42] Face and forgiven at the cross. -[6185.42 --> 6199.42] Oh, to see the pain written on your face, -[6199.42 --> 6208.28] Bearing the awesome weight of sin, -[6208.28 --> 6217.14] Every bitter thought, every evil deed, -[6217.14 --> 6226.00] Proud in your blood, sin for us. -[6226.00 --> 6234.86] This is the power of the cross, -[6234.86 --> 6242.72] Christ became sin for us, -[6242.72 --> 6249.56] Took the blade for the wrath, -[6249.56 --> 6256.72] Peace and forgiven at the cross. -[6256.72 --> 6268.06] Now the daylight flees, -[6268.06 --> 6271.72] Now the ground beneath, -[6271.72 --> 6277.00] Quakes as its maker, -[6277.00 --> 6281.76] Bows its end, -[6281.76 --> 6286.00] Curtain torn its two, -[6286.00 --> 6291.00] Dead or raised to lie, -[6291.00 --> 6297.86] Finish the victory cry, -[6297.86 --> 6307.86] This is the power of the cross, -[6307.86 --> 6312.86] Christ became sin for us, -[6312.86 --> 6318.86] Took the blade for the wrath, -[6318.86 --> 6323.90] For the wrath, -[6323.90 --> 6333.86] Peace and forgiven at the cross. -[6333.86 --> 6346.20] Oh, to see my name written in the wounds, -[6346.20 --> 6354.86] For through your suffering I am free, -[6354.86 --> 6359.86] Death is crushed today, -[6359.86 --> 6363.86] Life is mine today, -[6363.86 --> 6365.86] Life is mine today, -[6365.86 --> 6371.86] Walk through your selfless love, -[6371.86 --> 6380.86] Live the power of the cross, -[6380.86 --> 6385.86] Son of God, -[6385.86 --> 6389.86] Slave the love, -[6389.86 --> 6393.86] What a love, -[6393.86 --> 6395.86] What a cross, -[6395.86 --> 6405.86] First and forgiven at the cross. -[6405.86 --> 6430.86] Part two can understand, -[6430.86 --> 6432.86] At the cross for grand you, -[6432.86 --> 6451.14] I was lost in sin -[6451.14 --> 6454.32] Held captive by my fear -[6454.32 --> 6457.94] Till your mercy showed -[6457.94 --> 6461.24] Your hand was reaching me -[6461.24 --> 6464.62] My God, you came -[6464.62 --> 6467.78] And made a way for me -[6467.78 --> 6471.82] You made a way for me -[6471.82 --> 6484.22] I was lost in sin -[6484.22 --> 6487.22] Held captive by my fear -[6487.22 --> 6490.68] Till your mercy showed -[6490.68 --> 6494.06] Your hand was reaching me -[6494.06 --> 6497.22] My God, you came -[6497.22 --> 6500.22] And made a way for me -[6500.22 --> 6505.22] You made a way for me -[6505.22 --> 6511.76] My Jesus, we should save you -[6511.76 --> 6514.76] There's nothing like it -[6514.76 --> 6518.76] Love without end -[6518.76 --> 6525.30] My hope was purchased by the blood of the man -[6525.30 --> 6531.30] My Jesus, Redeemer -[6531.30 --> 6543.68] You defeated death -[6543.68 --> 6547.68] You defeated death -[6547.68 --> 6550.68] You trampled over sin -[6550.68 --> 6552.84] You're the risen man -[6552.84 --> 6554.38] Your risen plan -[6554.38 --> 6558.34] You're coming back again -[6558.34 --> 6559.38] You're coming back again -[6559.38 --> 6561.38] You're coming back again -[6561.38 --> 6562.38] You're coming back again -[6562.38 --> 6563.38] Oh, God, you came -[6563.38 --> 6564.38] And made a way for us -[6564.38 --> 6567.38] You made a way for us -[6567.38 --> 6597.36] God bless you. -[6597.38 --> 6627.36] God bless you. -[6627.38 --> 6629.38] God bless you. -[6657.38 --> 6659.38] God bless you. -[6659.38 --> 6661.38] God bless you. -[6661.38 --> 6663.38] God bless you. -[6663.38 --> 6665.38] God bless you. -[6665.38 --> 6667.38] God bless you. -[6667.38 --> 6669.38] God bless you. -[6669.38 --> 6671.38] God bless you. -[6671.38 --> 6673.38] God bless you. -[6673.38 --> 6675.38] God bless you. -[6675.38 --> 6677.38] God bless you. -[6677.38 --> 6679.38] God bless you. -[6679.38 --> 6681.38] God bless you. -[6681.38 --> 6683.38] God bless you. -[6683.38 --> 6685.38] God bless you. -[6685.38 --> 6687.38] God bless you. -[6687.38 --> 6689.38] God bless you. -[6689.38 --> 6691.38] God bless you. -[6691.38 --> 6693.38] God bless you. -[6693.38 --> 6695.38] God bless you. -[6695.38 --> 6697.38] God bless you. -[6697.38 --> 6704.70] Redeemer, my Jesus, gracious Redeemer and friend. -[6705.04 --> 6710.38] There's nothing like years without end. -[6710.38 --> 6717.16] My hope was purchased by the blood of the Lamb -[6717.16 --> 6722.96] My Jesus, Redeemer -[6722.96 --> 6729.16] My Jesus, Redeemer -[6740.38 --> 6765.38] My Jesus, Redeemer -[6765.38 --> 6770.38] In Christ alone my hope is found -[6770.38 --> 6775.38] He is my light, my strength, my song -[6775.38 --> 6781.00] This cornerstone, this solid ground -[6781.00 --> 6785.76] Firm through the fiercest drought and storm -[6785.76 --> 6791.10] What heights of love, what depths of peace -[6791.10 --> 6796.20] When fears are still, when strivings cease -[6796.20 --> 6801.10] My comforter, my all in all -[6801.78 --> 6806.10] Here in the love of Christ I stand -[6806.10 --> 6822.12] In Christ alone, who took on flesh -[6822.12 --> 6826.10] Fullness of God in helpless pain -[6826.82 --> 6831.20] This gift of love and righteousness -[6831.20 --> 6836.20] Scored by the ones He came to save -[6837.02 --> 6842.20] Till on that cross as Jesus died -[6842.20 --> 6846.20] The wrath of God was satisfied -[6847.14 --> 6852.20] For every sin on Him was laid -[6852.20 --> 6858.20] Here in the death of Christ I live -[6858.20 --> 6873.20] There in the ground His body laid -[6873.20 --> 6877.20] Light of the world by darkness slain -[6877.20 --> 6884.20] Then bursting forth in glorious death -[6884.20 --> 6888.20] Out from the grave He rose again -[6888.20 --> 6893.20] And as He stands He means to live -[6893.20 --> 6898.20] His perfect voice is there for me -[6898.20 --> 6903.20] For I am His and His God -[6903.20 --> 6908.20] God in the precious blood of Christ -[6908.20 --> 6914.20] No guilt in life, no fear in death -[6914.20 --> 6919.20] This is the power of Christ -[6919.20 --> 6929.20] In me -[6929.20 --> 6934.20] From life's first try to final breath -[6934.20 --> 6938.20] Jesus commands my destiny -[6938.20 --> 6939.20] To me -[6939.20 --> 6944.20] No power of hell, no scheme of man -[6944.20 --> 6945.20] Can ever come from His hand -[6945.20 --> 6946.20] Till He returns -[6946.20 --> 6950.20] No power of hell, no scheme of man -[6950.20 --> 6951.20] Till He returns -[6951.20 --> 6955.20] Till He returns -[6955.20 --> 6965.20] Or calls me home -[6965.20 --> 6966.20] Till He returns -[6966.20 --> 6967.20] Or calls me home -[6967.20 --> 6977.02] Outlock me from his hand till he returns or calls me home. -[6977.02 --> 6983.02] Here in the power of Christ I'll stand. -[6983.02 --> 7001.84] Go now into this week with the blessing of God, with the strength of God, with the power of God. -[7002.22 --> 7009.18] Regardless of what it is that you face in the days and weeks to come, God goes with you. -[7009.92 --> 7010.84] Receive his blessing. -[7010.84 --> 7014.74] God, go before you to lead you. -[7015.32 --> 7017.44] God, go behind you to protect you. -[7017.80 --> 7019.82] God, go beneath you to support you. -[7020.18 --> 7022.72] God, go beside you to befriend you. -[7023.42 --> 7025.52] Do not be afraid. -[7026.56 --> 7028.50] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[7028.64 --> 7035.98] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[7037.10 --> 7037.72] Amen. -[7040.84 --> 7067.60] It's my only comfort in my life and in my death. -[7067.60 --> 7073.50] You have fully paid for all my sins and all my death. -[7073.50 --> 7078.08] Even when I struggle to believe. -[7080.08 --> 7083.18] With your precious blood to protect me. -[7083.18 --> 7085.18] I am not my own. -[7085.18 --> 7090.18] I am not my own. -[7090.18 --> 7093.18] I belong. -[7093.18 --> 7094.18] I belong. -[7094.18 --> 7094.66] I belong. -[7094.66 --> 7095.18] I belong. -[7095.18 --> 7095.66] I belong. -[7095.66 --> 7096.18] I belong. -[7096.18 --> 7099.08] In my life. -[7099.08 --> 7101.06] In my life. -[7101.06 --> 7102.62] I belong. -[7102.62 --> 7102.98] I belong. -[7102.98 --> 7105.70] I belong. -[7105.70 --> 7107.70] Oh -[7135.70 --> 7137.70] Oh -[7165.70 --> 7167.70] Oh -[7167.70 --> 7169.70] Oh -[7169.70 --> 7171.70] Oh -[7171.70 --> 7173.70] Oh -[7173.70 --> 7175.70] Oh -[7175.70 --> 7177.70] Oh -[7177.70 --> 7183.70] Always by your Holy Spirit you assure me -[7183.70 --> 7189.70] Of eternal life and make me willing and ready -[7189.70 --> 7195.70] Even when I can't see my way through -[7195.70 --> 7199.70] From now on to always -[7199.70 --> 7203.70] And for you -[7203.70 --> 7207.70] I am not my own -[7207.70 --> 7211.70] I belong -[7211.70 --> 7213.70] I am strong -[7213.70 --> 7217.70] In my mind -[7217.70 --> 7219.70] And in -[7219.70 --> 7221.70] Yes -[7221.70 --> 7223.70] We -[7223.70 --> 7225.70] Know -[7225.70 --> 7229.70] I am -[7229.70 --> 7231.70] Not my own -[7231.70 --> 7233.70] But belong -[7233.70 --> 7235.70] Body -[7235.70 --> 7237.70] And soul -[7237.70 --> 7239.70] In my -[7239.70 --> 7241.70] Life -[7241.70 --> 7243.70] And in death -[7243.70 --> 7245.70] To you -[7245.70 --> 7247.70] Lord -[7247.70 --> 7249.70] Christ -[7249.70 --> 7251.70] My -[7251.70 --> 7253.70] Lord -[7253.70 --> 7255.70] I am not my own -[7255.70 --> 7257.70] But belong -[7257.70 --> 7259.70] Body -[7259.70 --> 7261.70] And soul -[7261.70 --> 7263.70] In my -[7263.70 --> 7265.70] And I -[7265.70 --> 7267.70] And I -[7267.70 --> 7269.70] Can't -[7269.70 --> 7271.70] To you -[7271.70 --> 7273.70] Lord -[7273.70 --> 7275.70] Christ -[7275.70 --> 7277.70] Lord -[7277.70 --> 7279.70] To you -[7279.70 --> 7283.70] And -[7283.70 --> 7285.70] To you -[7285.70 --> 7287.70] And -[7287.70 --> 7289.70] To you -[7289.70 --> 7291.70] And -[7291.70 --> 7293.70] To you -[7293.70 --> 7295.70] And -[7295.70 --> 7297.70] To you -[7297.70 --> 7299.70] And -[7299.70 --> 7301.70] You -[7301.70 --> 7313.70] To you -[7314.70 --> 7315.70] you -[7315.70 --> 7319.70] You -[7319.70 --> 7321.70] You -[7321.70 --> 7323.70] You -[7323.70 --> 7325.20] You -[7325.20 --> 7325.70] Level -[7325.70 --> 7327.70] To you -[7327.70 --> 7357.68] Thank you. -[7357.70 --> 7387.68] Thank you. -[7387.70 --> 7417.68] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 13 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 13 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3f4a39b1765402f8060e12d21c24bcfabec26c7e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 13 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,133 +0,0 @@ -• The glory of God -• Worship and praise -• Trusting in God's plan -• Overcoming fears and doubts -• Sorrow and pain vs. God's goodness -• Putting faith in Jesus -• Living for God's truth -• Rejoicing in the present moment -• Not worrying about the future -• Introduction to church service -• Food drive announcements and results -• Upcoming summer teaching series, "Ask Anything" -• Langley Food Bank charity event -• Lord's Supper to be held later in the service -• Participating in church services from home -• Preparing to participate in the Lord's Supper -• Youth meeting at the church -• Contacting Pastor Kevin with questions about youth program -• Worship service and liturgy instructions -• Participation during worship service, including responding to prompts -• Call to worship from Psalm 27 -• The name and glory of Jesus Christ -• Creation and God's plan -• Human sin and God's love -• The power and authority of Jesus' name -• Prayer for healing, forgiveness, and reconciliation -• Surrendering to God and being a living sacrifice -• Children's program intro (Kids Corner) -• Introduction and welcome to the service -• Announcement of memory verse competition and prizes -• Introducing special guests and memory verse winners -• Explanation of Emanuel Marathon of memory verses and prizes -• Introductions and interaction with Hank the Hound, who is nervous in front of people -• Reading a story about Saul (also known as Paul) -• The story of Saul/Paul from the Bible -• Saul's journey to Damascus to persecute Jesus' followers -• Saul's conversion experience with Jesus in a bright light -• Ananias's role in healing Saul's blindness and filling him with the Holy Spirit -• Paul's transformation into one of Jesus' most famous followers -• The importance of God working through people to achieve his plans -• A church service, including children's worship time and offerings for the budget and Teen Challenge -• Mention of Jesus' words in Matthew 11:28 -• Fundraising for Teen Challenge and World Renew Canada -• COVID-19 crisis response efforts by World Renew in India -• Upcoming offering collection for World Renew -• Personal testimony about the song "Abide With Me" -• Story of how the speaker's son passed away and their emotional response -• Testimony of introvertedness and need for connection during worship -• Prayers for congregation members with health issues: Bob Viss (lymphoma), Janet Boot (health concerns), Ismay (gallstones and kidney stone) -• Thanking God for technology that brings people together virtually -• Request for God's spirit to work within the congregation to lead and guide them in daily lives -• Prayers for community outreach programs, including food drive and support for indigenous peoples -• Requests for healing and miracles for specific individuals with health issues. -• The speaker prays for the church staff and those attending the service -• A story from Mark is read in which Jesus heals a paralyzed man -• The story is discussed as an example of the collision between physical and spiritual realities -• Jesus' authority to forgive sins is highlighted -• The importance of prioritizing what truly matters is emphasized -• The story of four men tearing down a roof to access Jesus for their paralyzed friend -• Jesus' response to the faith of the four men, forgiving the paralyzed man's sins and healing him -• The reaction of the teachers of the law, who are offended by Jesus' statement that he can forgive sins -• Jesus' explanation that only God can forgive sins, and his power to do so as the Son of Man -• A comparison between saying "your sins are forgiven" versus "get up and take your mat and walk" -• Jesus' demonstration of his authority through healing the paralyzed man, and the crowd's amazement at this miracle -• The distinction between physical needs (healing) and spiritual needs (holiness before God) -• The importance of recognizing the deeper problem (spiritual need) rather than just addressing the surface-level issue (physical need) -• Discussion of ultimate human need and reconciliation with a higher power -• Reference to The Chronicles of Narnia series by C.S. Lewis -• Story of Eustace from "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader" who falls asleep on a dragon's hoard and wakes up as a dragon -• Aslan leads Eustace through a process of self-reflection and shedding of "dragon skin" -• Eustace fails to change back into human form despite repeated attempts -• Eustace's testimony about his experience with a dragon and how it compares to Jesus' ability to forgive sins -• The concept that Jesus is God, who alone can forgive sins and fulfill human desires -• The idea that Jesus gives people new hearts and new lives through baptism and the Lord's Supper -• The importance of letting Jesus be Savior and taking him deeper in one's life -• The collision of need and truth in the second half of the text -• Jesus is the only one who can lead us into spiritual rebirth and fulfillment -• He fulfills our deepest longings and heals our discontent -• Sin builds walls around our heart, separating us from Jesus -• Forgiveness of sins is the greater reality and deeper need than physical healing -• Miracles authenticate and validate the message of who Jesus is -• Jesus' miracles serve as evidence that what He says is true -• The nature of Jesus Christ: the Son of God, God Himself, second person of the Divine Trinity -• Jesus' role as Messiah, Anointed One, Savior, who lived the life I should have lived and died the death I deserved -• The significance of the Holy Spirit and faith in knowing Jesus -• The future return of Jesus and making all things new -• Addressing skepticism about the lack of miracles today -• Faith healers and churches that take advantage of desperation -• Importance of discernment in evaluating miracle claims -• Skepticism towards miracle claims is biblical and necessary -• Not all miracles are meant to lead people to believe; some are for other reasons -• Jesus' day was similar to ours in terms of people not believing despite many miracles -• The Bible is widely available and accessible through various translations -• The word of God, written by the Holy Spirit, is true and infallible -• Miracles are not needed to authenticate Jesus' witness due to the availability of scripture -• The purpose of Jesus' miracles is to confirm his testimony about himself -• The Bible is the ultimate authority for life and faith, testifying about Jesus -• Worship and sacraments centered around scripture also confirm who Jesus is -• A deep desire to know God through His word is necessary to see Him act in power. -• God's primary way of communicating with people is through the word, specifically the Bible. -• Christian faith looks back on fulfilled promises in history to fuel a hope for a glorious future. -• The book being discussed tells the story of promises fulfilled in the past and present, and gives guidance on how to endure and persevere as a disciple of Jesus. -• Showing love of Jesus to others through words -• Connecting the power of Jesus' love and word to everyday life -• Authenticating one's message by living it out -• Rejoicing in Jesus' victory over sin and suffering -• Hoping in Jesus' victory over suffering despite personal struggles -• Recognition of Jesus' presence -• Gratitude for guidance and support -• Reflection on vulnerability and dependence -• Praise for Jesus' victory over sin and suffering -• Prayer for revelation of truth and reconciliation with God -• Praying to be nourished by God's word and transformed to live for Him -• The concept of a table as a means of grace, where Jesus is offered and made tangible -• Invitation to come to the table with gladness, especially for those who believe in Him and rely on Jesus for salvation -• The Lord's Supper as a sacrament -• Remembrance of Christ's body and blood -• Faith expressed through participation in the Lord's Supper -• Salvation through obedience to Christ -• Qualifications for receiving salvation: true sorrow for sins, sincere belief in Jesus, desire to live in obedience -• Invitation to come to the table with gladness -• Discussion of gifts from God and the people of God -• Reflection on Christ's body given for forgiveness of sins -• Concluding prayer and song -• Final blessings, including a prayer for protection and guidance -• Song of celebration and praise for Jesus' return -• References to future joy, reunion with Jesus, and dancing in his presence -• The wedding feast and the coming of a new era -• Proclaiming the Lord with joy and celebration -• Dancing in the streets to proclaim the glorious pride and great Son of Man -• Joining in song as every tongue, tribe, and nation comes together -• Coming alive through music and spiritual rebirth -• Overcoming dryness and desolation to bloom like a rosebud in light \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 13 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 13 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 7faee2b501f90c3daf88ad87b7cf8e2382038302..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 13 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2406 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 4.74] The human life of you and me -[4.74 --> 10.40] From the desert sands to the place we stand -[10.40 --> 15.76] He is God of all, He is everything -[15.76 --> 20.92] I'm giving my life to the only one -[20.92 --> 23.98] Who makes the moon reflect the sun -[23.98 --> 29.30] Every starry night, that was His design -[29.30 --> 32.08] I'm giving my life to the only sun -[32.08 --> 35.08] Who was and is and yet to come -[35.08 --> 37.92] Let the praises ring -[37.92 --> 40.70] The singing is everything -[40.70 --> 46.30] The singing is everything -[46.30 --> 55.12] From the autumn leaves -[55.12 --> 57.96] That will ride the breeze -[57.96 --> 60.74] To the faith it takes -[60.74 --> 63.34] To pray and see -[63.34 --> 66.04] From the painted sky -[66.04 --> 68.98] To my plague filled eye -[68.98 --> 74.74] He is God of all, He is everything -[74.74 --> 79.52] I'm giving my life to the only one -[79.52 --> 82.56] Who makes the moon reflect the sun -[82.56 --> 87.90] Every starry night, that was His design -[87.90 --> 90.68] I'm giving my life to the only sun -[90.68 --> 93.58] Who was and is and yet to come -[93.58 --> 96.34] Let the praises ring -[96.34 --> 101.12] He is everything -[101.12 --> 103.62] He is everything -[103.62 --> 104.42] Everything -[104.42 --> 106.36] Hallelujah -[106.36 --> 107.36] Hallelujah -[107.36 --> 113.12] I believe -[113.12 --> 117.42] Hallelujah -[117.42 --> 118.42] Hallelujah -[118.42 --> 119.42] Hallelujah -[119.42 --> 120.42] Hallelujah -[120.42 --> 122.42] Hallelujah -[122.42 --> 124.42] I believe -[124.42 --> 129.76] I'm giving my life to the only one -[129.76 --> 132.74] Who makes the moon reflect the sun -[132.74 --> 135.54] On that starry night -[135.54 --> 138.08] He changed my life -[138.08 --> 140.88] And I'm giving it all to the only sun -[140.88 --> 144.28] Who gave me hope when I had none -[144.28 --> 146.28] So let the praises ring -[146.28 --> 147.28] So let the praises ring -[147.28 --> 149.28] Oh let the praises ring -[149.28 --> 151.28] I'm giving my life to the only one -[151.28 --> 154.28] Who makes the moon reflect the sun -[154.28 --> 157.28] Every starry night -[157.28 --> 158.28] Every starry night -[158.28 --> 159.28] That was His design -[159.28 --> 161.28] I'm giving my life to the only sun -[161.28 --> 165.28] Who was and is and yet to come -[165.28 --> 167.28] Every angel sings -[167.28 --> 168.28] Every angel sings -[168.28 --> 170.28] That He is heavenly -[170.28 --> 172.28] So let the praises ring -[172.28 --> 175.28] Cause He is everything -[175.28 --> 178.28] He is everything -[178.28 --> 182.28] Here we go -[182.28 --> 192.28] Here we go -[192.28 --> 193.28] Here we go -[193.28 --> 210.28] I'm casting my cares aside -[210.28 --> 214.28] I'm leaving my past behind -[214.28 --> 221.28] I'm setting my heart and mind on You, Jesus -[221.28 --> 224.28] I'm reaching my hand to You -[224.28 --> 226.28] I'm reaching my hand to You -[226.28 --> 230.28] I'm leaving with so much more -[230.28 --> 237.28] Knowing that all You have in store for me is good -[237.28 --> 239.28] It's good -[239.28 --> 243.28] Today is the day You have made -[243.28 --> 247.28] I will rejoice and be glad in it -[247.28 --> 249.28] Today is the day You have made -[249.28 --> 253.28] I will rejoice and be glad in it -[253.28 --> 258.28] And I won't worry about tomorrow -[258.28 --> 261.28] I'm trusting in what You say -[261.28 --> 263.28] Today is the day -[263.28 --> 265.28] Today is the day -[265.28 --> 267.28] Today is the day -[267.28 --> 268.28] Today is the day -[268.28 --> 270.28] Today is the day -[270.28 --> 271.28] Today is the day -[271.28 --> 272.28] Today is the day -[272.28 --> 274.28] I'm putting my fears aside -[274.28 --> 276.28] I'm leaving my doubts behind -[276.28 --> 277.28] I'm leaving my doubts behind -[277.28 --> 279.28] I'm giving my hopes and dreams to You -[279.28 --> 283.88] I'm giving my hopes and dreams to you -[283.88 --> 285.40] Jesus -[285.40 --> 291.28] I'm pitching my hands to yours -[291.28 --> 295.04] Believing in so much more -[295.04 --> 302.08] Knowing that all you have in store for me is good -[302.08 --> 303.80] It's good -[303.80 --> 308.06] Today is the day you have made -[308.06 --> 311.82] I will rejoice and be glad in it -[311.82 --> 316.04] Today is the day you have made -[316.04 --> 319.86] I will rejoice and be glad in it -[319.86 --> 324.84] And I won't worry about tomorrow -[324.84 --> 327.98] I'm trusting in what you say -[327.98 --> 330.62] Today is the day -[330.62 --> 333.82] Today is the day -[338.06 --> 355.96] I will stand up on your truth -[355.96 --> 365.22] I will stand up on your truth -[365.22 --> 373.06] And all my days I'll live for you -[373.06 --> 380.88] And I will stand up on your truth -[380.88 --> 388.82] And all my days I'll live for you -[388.82 --> 392.58] And all my days I'll live for you -[392.58 --> 395.80] Today is the day you have made -[395.80 --> 399.80] I will rejoice and be glad in it -[399.80 --> 403.82] Today is the day you have made -[403.82 --> 408.08] I will rejoice and be glad in it -[408.08 --> 412.80] And I won't worry about tomorrow -[412.80 --> 416.56] I'm giving you my fears and sorrows -[416.56 --> 420.78] Where you lead me I will follow -[420.78 --> 423.54] I'm trusting in what you say -[423.54 --> 426.54] Today is the day -[426.54 --> 430.20] Today is the day -[430.20 --> 434.10] Today is the day -[434.10 --> 438.04] Today is the day -[438.04 --> 442.04] Today is the day -[442.04 --> 454.30] Today is the day -[454.30 --> 456.30] Today is the day -[456.30 --> 461.30] Today is the day -[461.30 --> 486.96] Before I call -[486.96 --> 490.00] Before I ever cry -[490.00 --> 493.12] You answer me -[493.12 --> 496.24] From where the thunder lies -[496.24 --> 499.08] I cannot run -[499.08 --> 501.82] This heart untethered to -[501.82 --> 507.34] Good morning and welcome to church -[507.34 --> 510.76] We are so excited to gather together this morning -[510.76 --> 511.90] If you are joining us here -[511.90 --> 514.44] Welcome into this place together -[514.44 --> 515.72] If you are joining us online -[515.72 --> 518.84] Welcome to our worship together -[518.84 --> 519.74] My name is Chris -[519.74 --> 521.58] And I'm one of the pastors here -[521.58 --> 522.46] And it's my privilege -[522.46 --> 524.08] Along with these others on stage -[524.08 --> 525.00] To lead you -[525.00 --> 526.96] In our shared worship -[526.96 --> 528.58] Of our good God -[528.58 --> 530.40] On this Sunday morning -[530.40 --> 531.92] Before we begin -[531.92 --> 533.08] Just a couple announcements -[533.08 --> 534.04] To share with you -[534.04 --> 535.22] First of all -[535.22 --> 535.88] An incredible -[535.88 --> 537.44] And huge thank you -[537.44 --> 538.10] To everyone -[538.10 --> 539.08] Who participated -[539.08 --> 540.56] In the food drive yesterday -[540.56 --> 541.92] It was amazing -[541.92 --> 543.98] We had over six pallets of food -[543.98 --> 544.80] That we packed up -[544.80 --> 545.90] And are shipping over -[545.90 --> 547.98] To the Langley Food Bank -[547.98 --> 549.02] Now -[549.02 --> 550.68] I have not yet -[550.68 --> 552.06] Been given permission -[552.06 --> 553.16] To share the winner -[553.16 --> 556.12] Of the food drive event -[556.12 --> 557.40] But I will tell you -[557.40 --> 558.30] It was definitive -[558.30 --> 560.66] In all three categories -[560.66 --> 561.28] Of judgment -[561.28 --> 563.94] It was very clear -[563.94 --> 565.02] I will also say -[565.02 --> 565.80] There was an Easter egg -[565.80 --> 566.64] That went out yesterday -[566.64 --> 568.34] That might help you figure out -[568.34 --> 569.02] Who that was -[569.02 --> 570.50] But to know who that is -[570.50 --> 571.26] You have to follow me -[571.26 --> 572.06] On social media -[572.06 --> 576.16] And since my account -[576.16 --> 576.58] Is private -[576.58 --> 577.50] Maybe you're not -[577.50 --> 580.24] Either way -[580.24 --> 581.12] It was a great -[581.12 --> 582.36] Morning and day -[582.36 --> 582.82] Together -[582.82 --> 583.80] And we were just -[583.80 --> 584.28] So privileged -[584.28 --> 585.76] To bless Langley Food Bank -[585.76 --> 586.68] In fact -[586.68 --> 587.22] We had a few -[587.22 --> 588.12] Community members -[588.12 --> 589.04] Neighbors of our church -[589.04 --> 589.80] Come and check out -[589.80 --> 590.42] What we were doing -[590.42 --> 591.12] And I interacted -[591.12 --> 591.80] With some of them -[591.80 --> 593.14] During that time too -[593.14 --> 593.96] They participated -[593.96 --> 595.02] In their own way -[595.02 --> 595.58] And so it was just -[595.58 --> 596.00] A blessing -[596.00 --> 597.06] To be together -[597.06 --> 597.82] And to engage -[597.82 --> 598.82] Our community that way -[598.82 --> 599.50] And so thank you -[599.50 --> 600.22] For that -[600.22 --> 600.84] That was great -[600.84 --> 602.82] Also just a reminder -[602.82 --> 604.84] About the Ask Anything -[604.84 --> 605.96] Summer teaching -[605.96 --> 606.78] And preaching series -[606.78 --> 607.64] That's happening -[607.64 --> 609.44] In the Midweek Memo -[609.44 --> 610.58] Also on our YouTube channel -[610.58 --> 612.14] You can see a video for that -[612.14 --> 612.70] And there's a link -[612.70 --> 613.68] To a form -[613.68 --> 614.58] Where you can fill out -[614.58 --> 615.54] And submit your questions -[615.54 --> 616.26] And so this is really -[616.26 --> 618.14] A chance to ask anything -[618.14 --> 619.90] If you've been wondering -[619.90 --> 621.12] About something in life -[621.12 --> 621.60] And faith -[621.60 --> 622.18] Or the Bible -[622.18 --> 622.96] Or philosophy -[622.96 --> 623.86] Or theology -[623.86 --> 625.42] Or Lego -[625.42 --> 626.86] Ask anything -[626.86 --> 628.78] And we will do our best -[628.78 --> 630.62] To answer that here -[630.62 --> 631.76] In our series -[631.76 --> 632.50] This summer -[632.50 --> 634.34] As well -[634.34 --> 635.30] You can probably see -[635.30 --> 636.10] We have Lord's Supper -[636.10 --> 637.10] Later in this service -[637.10 --> 637.76] And so if you are -[637.76 --> 638.84] Participating at home -[638.84 --> 639.78] Be ready for that -[639.78 --> 640.40] If you need to get -[640.40 --> 640.96] Some elements -[640.96 --> 642.74] Ready during our service -[642.74 --> 644.06] You can take a moment -[644.06 --> 645.08] And grab those things -[645.08 --> 645.80] And prepare that -[645.80 --> 646.64] So you can participate -[646.64 --> 648.12] In our Lord's Supper -[648.12 --> 648.52] Together -[648.52 --> 649.68] And then finally -[649.68 --> 651.06] Tonight there is youth -[651.06 --> 652.44] They will be meeting here -[652.44 --> 652.96] At the church -[652.96 --> 653.86] If you have any questions -[653.86 --> 654.64] Or if you're wondering -[654.64 --> 655.06] About that -[655.06 --> 656.10] You can talk to Pastor Kevin -[656.10 --> 657.06] Email him -[657.06 --> 657.68] Or text him -[657.68 --> 658.40] Or DM him -[658.40 --> 659.44] Or however it is -[659.44 --> 660.80] And he will address -[660.80 --> 661.96] Those for you -[661.96 --> 663.62] We gather to worship God -[663.62 --> 664.58] And so I'm going to invite you -[664.58 --> 665.20] For those of you -[665.20 --> 665.78] Who are here -[665.78 --> 666.68] To stand -[666.68 --> 667.88] If you're at home -[667.88 --> 668.58] You can stand -[668.58 --> 669.24] Or you can just -[669.24 --> 671.20] Adopt a posture of receipt -[671.20 --> 673.16] And as you are standing -[673.16 --> 674.98] Because we're in this weird time -[674.98 --> 676.38] So as you are standing -[676.38 --> 677.98] Means stand now -[677.98 --> 678.76] While I'm speaking -[678.76 --> 679.34] Very good -[679.34 --> 683.60] Because we are still -[683.60 --> 684.16] Figuring out -[684.16 --> 684.88] What this looks like -[684.88 --> 685.70] I just want to tell you -[685.70 --> 686.68] That when there comes time -[686.68 --> 687.36] In our service -[687.36 --> 688.16] For liturgy -[688.16 --> 689.22] When you get to say -[689.22 --> 691.38] We do God helping us -[691.38 --> 692.12] Or when there's a chance -[692.12 --> 693.02] For you to respond -[693.02 --> 693.88] You can do that -[693.88 --> 695.98] In your loud and ordinary voice -[695.98 --> 697.02] So that we can hear it -[697.02 --> 697.88] In fact -[697.88 --> 698.78] Later when I'm preaching -[698.78 --> 699.72] And the spirit moves you -[699.72 --> 700.44] To shout amen -[700.44 --> 701.82] You can do that -[701.82 --> 703.38] In your more than loud -[703.38 --> 704.48] And ordinary voice -[704.48 --> 705.76] So that the people at home -[705.76 --> 707.28] Can hear you do that -[707.28 --> 708.92] Amen -[708.92 --> 709.86] Thank you -[709.86 --> 711.36] I'm glad there's one or two -[711.36 --> 711.84] Back there -[711.84 --> 712.56] I appreciate it -[712.56 --> 713.96] Receive the blessing -[713.96 --> 714.50] Of our God -[714.50 --> 715.60] To start our worship -[715.60 --> 716.46] Together -[716.46 --> 720.52] Grace -[720.52 --> 722.00] Mercy -[722.00 --> 723.62] And peace to you -[723.62 --> 724.98] From God our Father -[724.98 --> 726.16] From the Lord Jesus Christ -[726.16 --> 726.72] His Son -[726.72 --> 727.84] And our Savior -[727.84 --> 728.82] Through the presence -[728.82 --> 729.44] And power -[729.44 --> 730.82] Of the Holy Spirit -[730.82 --> 732.88] Amen -[732.88 --> 735.90] We'll relearn these things -[735.90 --> 739.62] Good morning -[739.62 --> 740.50] Our call to worship -[740.50 --> 740.98] This morning -[740.98 --> 742.70] Comes from Psalm 27 -[742.70 --> 743.74] Where it says -[743.74 --> 745.78] One thing I ask -[745.78 --> 746.44] From the Lord -[746.44 --> 748.10] This only do I seek -[748.10 --> 749.64] That I may dwell -[749.64 --> 750.34] In the house -[750.34 --> 751.10] Of the Lord -[751.10 --> 752.68] All the days -[752.68 --> 753.36] Of my life -[753.36 --> 754.70] To gaze -[754.70 --> 755.36] On the beauty -[755.36 --> 756.02] Of the Lord -[756.02 --> 756.98] And to seek him -[756.98 --> 757.96] In his temple -[757.96 --> 759.30] For in the day -[759.30 --> 759.80] Of trouble -[759.80 --> 760.62] He will keep me -[760.62 --> 761.74] Safe in his dwelling -[761.74 --> 763.10] He will hide me -[763.10 --> 763.68] In the shelter -[763.68 --> 764.76] Of his sacred tent -[764.76 --> 766.04] And set me high -[766.04 --> 767.16] Upon the rock -[767.16 --> 768.66] Then my head -[768.66 --> 769.44] Will be exalted -[769.44 --> 770.38] Above the enemies -[770.38 --> 771.24] Who surround me -[771.24 --> 772.70] At his sacred tent -[772.70 --> 773.64] I will sacrifice -[773.64 --> 775.42] With shouts of joy -[775.42 --> 776.88] I will sing -[776.88 --> 778.26] And make music -[778.26 --> 779.10] To the Lord -[779.10 --> 789.30] You were the word -[789.30 --> 791.38] At the beginning -[791.38 --> 795.26] Born with God -[795.26 --> 799.86] The Lord was taught -[799.86 --> 804.32] Of hidden glory -[804.32 --> 806.68] In creation -[806.68 --> 809.74] Now we've been -[809.74 --> 812.38] Built in you -[812.38 --> 814.48] Our Christ -[814.48 --> 816.94] What a beautiful name -[816.94 --> 818.52] It is -[818.52 --> 820.94] What a beautiful name -[820.94 --> 822.40] It is -[822.40 --> 825.88] The name of Jesus -[825.88 --> 827.46] Christ -[827.46 --> 829.20] Christ my King -[829.20 --> 832.46] What a beautiful name -[832.46 --> 834.24] It is -[834.24 --> 837.66] Nothing compares to this -[837.66 --> 840.00] What a beautiful name -[840.00 --> 841.06] It is -[841.06 --> 844.92] The name of Jesus -[844.92 --> 851.46] You didn't want to learn -[851.46 --> 853.96] Without us -[853.96 --> 855.42] So Jesus -[855.42 --> 861.12] You brought heaven down -[861.12 --> 865.58] My sin was greater -[865.58 --> 867.42] Your love was greater -[867.42 --> 881.06] What a wonderful name -[881.06 --> 881.78] What a wonderful name -[881.78 --> 882.46] It is -[882.46 --> 886.30] The name of Jesus -[886.30 --> 889.46] Christ my King -[889.46 --> 892.78] What a wonderful name -[892.78 --> 912.78] it is nothing compares to this what a wonderful name it is the name of jesus -[922.78 --> 944.78] death could not hold you -[944.78 --> 954.78] the veil tore before you you silence the ghosts of sin and grave -[955.98 --> 968.78] the heavens are roaring the praise of your glory for you are raised to life again -[968.78 --> 980.78] you have no rival you have no equal now and forever -[980.78 --> 998.78] yours is the kingdom yours is the glory yours is the name above all things -[998.78 --> 1010.78] what a powerful name it is -[1010.78 --> 1022.78] nothing can stand against what a powerful name it is -[1022.78 --> 1036.78] the name of jesus you have no rival you have no equal now and forever -[1036.78 --> 1042.78] you have no equal now and forever -[1042.78 --> 1046.78] yours is the kingdom yours is the glory -[1046.78 --> 1052.78] yours is the name above all things -[1052.78 --> 1056.78] what a powerful name it is -[1056.78 --> 1060.78] what a powerful name it is -[1060.78 --> 1066.78] the name of jesus christ my king -[1066.78 --> 1070.78] what a powerful name it is -[1070.78 --> 1074.78] nothing can stand against -[1074.78 --> 1078.78] what a powerful name it is -[1078.78 --> 1080.78] the name of jesus -[1080.78 --> 1084.78] what a wonderful name it is -[1084.78 --> 1088.78] what a beautiful name it is -[1096.78 --> 1098.78] the name of jesus -[1102.78 --> 1106.78] please pray our prayer of confession with me -[1107.36 --> 1108.92] Lord, hear our prayer. -[1109.92 --> 1113.62] For the mending of our hearts torn apart by our unkindness. -[1114.24 --> 1118.92] For the healing of our souls wasting away from the despair around us. -[1119.56 --> 1123.80] For the forgiveness we seek for the sin we have allowed to persist. -[1124.40 --> 1128.32] For the reconciliation of the world whose division condemns us. -[1128.96 --> 1131.38] We pray for the courage to admit our fault, -[1132.10 --> 1134.02] the strength to amend our actions, -[1134.02 --> 1137.14] and the hope that your grace awaits us. -[1137.92 --> 1140.14] Through Christ we pray. Amen. -[1164.02 --> 1165.02] Amen. -[1167.92 --> 1168.92] Amen. -[1168.92 --> 1169.92] Amen. -[1169.92 --> 1170.02] Amen. -[1170.36 --> 1172.08] Amen. -[1172.08 --> 1175.72] Lord, I want to be a sacrifice. -[1178.22 --> 1183.08] Lord, I want to be pleasing to you. -[1183.08 --> 1191.42] Lord, I want to love you all my life. -[1191.92 --> 1197.48] And be the one that you shine through. -[1197.48 --> 1205.18] Jesus, Lord, I give you all. -[1205.18 --> 1212.80] Every part of me cries out your name. -[1213.10 --> 1218.94] Jesus, I give you all. -[1221.08 --> 1223.20] Living and holy. -[1225.08 --> 1226.80] Living and holy. -[1228.08 --> 1231.68] Living and holy for you. -[1231.68 --> 1239.64] Lord, I want to be a sacrifice. -[1239.64 --> 1247.38] Lord, I want to be pleasing to you. -[1248.58 --> 1254.88] Lord, I want to love you all my life. -[1254.88 --> 1256.88] Jesus, I give you all. -[1256.88 --> 1261.34] And be the one that you shine through. -[1261.34 --> 1268.92] Jesus, I give you all. -[1268.92 --> 1276.54] Every part of me cries out your name. -[1276.84 --> 1282.04] Jesus, I give you all. -[1282.04 --> 1288.00] Jesus, I give you all. -[1288.00 --> 1292.00] Living and holy for you. -[1292.00 --> 1295.44] Living and holy for you. -[1295.44 --> 1303.88] Jesus, I give you all. -[1303.88 --> 1311.84] Every part of me cries out your name. -[1311.84 --> 1317.84] Jesus, I give you all. -[1317.84 --> 1333.80] Living and holy for you. -[1333.80 --> 1348.26] If you like to talk to tomatoes. -[1348.26 --> 1353.20] If a squash can make you smile. -[1353.76 --> 1355.26] If you like to... -[1355.26 --> 1355.96] Hi, kids. -[1356.50 --> 1357.56] Welcome to Kids Corner. -[1357.70 --> 1360.98] It is a journey from that side of the church to this side of the church. -[1360.98 --> 1361.98] Let me tell you. -[1361.98 --> 1363.98] If I'm a little sweaty, that's probably why. -[1363.98 --> 1366.94] It's so good to be with you here today, kids. -[1366.94 --> 1369.32] Feel free to come closer to the TV if you're at home. -[1369.32 --> 1372.74] Kids in church, it's so good to see so many people here today. -[1372.74 --> 1373.38] This is so fun. -[1373.38 --> 1377.44] I haven't done this with people in this room before in this sort of capacity. -[1377.44 --> 1379.28] So we'll see how this goes. -[1379.28 --> 1380.14] I'm sure it'll be great. -[1380.94 --> 1386.42] Before we get into the story today, though, we have some special guests here that are going -[1386.42 --> 1387.92] to do the memory verse. -[1387.92 --> 1392.92] So please take a look at this video. -[1392.92 --> 1419.84] Mark 12, verse 30 to 31. -[1419.84 --> 1423.08] Excellent work. -[1423.08 --> 1425.34] And we have these celebrities in church with us today. -[1425.34 --> 1425.94] Well done. -[1425.94 --> 1427.14] Well done. -[1427.14 --> 1430.12] Claire, Annika, Linda, and Esme, well done. -[1431.12 --> 1435.94] Oh, before we move on, Chris, did you announce this at the beginning of the service, the marathon -[1435.94 --> 1437.30] of memory verses? -[1438.04 --> 1439.16] Okay, that's my job. -[1439.22 --> 1439.98] That's what I've been told. -[1440.08 --> 1441.72] So I'm going to share something with you. -[1442.14 --> 1443.34] This is for everyone. -[1443.72 --> 1447.10] I know this is Kids Corner, and sometimes we think it's all about kids, but this is for -[1447.10 --> 1448.94] fully grown grown-ups as well. -[1448.94 --> 1452.88] We are doing the Emanuel Marathon of memory verses. -[1453.14 --> 1453.86] It's something like that. -[1453.92 --> 1454.72] I can't remember exactly. -[1454.82 --> 1455.44] It's a tongue twister. -[1456.16 --> 1460.90] But what that means is you can come to the church, or you can send Mrs. Nikki a video -[1460.90 --> 1464.94] of you doing all nine of the memory verses this year. -[1464.94 --> 1469.70] And if you can do that, you'll notice in the foyer there is this table full of prizes. -[1470.10 --> 1471.14] There's candy. -[1471.50 --> 1473.56] There's gift cards for the grown-ups. -[1473.86 --> 1476.96] There's like Joan's soda and like birdhouses. -[1477.36 --> 1478.66] And there's all sorts of things. -[1478.96 --> 1480.04] There's kites, I think. -[1480.04 --> 1484.34] So come to the church and recite your memory verses. -[1484.46 --> 1485.50] We've been doing them all year. -[1485.60 --> 1487.68] They're on the pre-show slides going through. -[1487.78 --> 1491.84] So if you don't know what they are, re-watch church today, and you'll see all those slides. -[1492.40 --> 1495.32] Or watch old churches, because we've been doing them for nine months. -[1495.78 --> 1497.12] So do those memory verses. -[1497.28 --> 1497.94] Come get a prize. -[1498.06 --> 1500.14] Let's see if you know the memory verses we've all learned. -[1500.14 --> 1502.08] Now, we're going to get into our story today. -[1502.18 --> 1504.24] But before we do that, I've got a special guest. -[1511.40 --> 1512.52] It's Hank the Hound, everyone. -[1512.62 --> 1513.14] Say hi to Hank. -[1515.82 --> 1519.48] What is going on? -[1520.08 --> 1521.16] There's people here today, Hank. -[1521.54 --> 1522.20] Isn't it exciting? -[1522.68 --> 1523.74] I don't know. -[1524.34 --> 1525.82] I don't know about this. -[1526.72 --> 1529.20] I don't know if I like this so much it makes me nervous. -[1529.20 --> 1530.26] Oh, really? -[1530.44 --> 1532.18] I don't know if I like people here. -[1532.50 --> 1532.74] Really? -[1533.44 --> 1537.60] It's so exciting, though, Hank, which reminds me, unrelated, I should introduce you to Linda afterwards. -[1537.70 --> 1538.26] Remind me to do that. -[1538.36 --> 1538.58] Okay. -[1539.24 --> 1542.04] Why are you so nervous that there's people here? -[1542.70 --> 1546.04] Um, I get nervous speaking in front of people. -[1546.68 --> 1548.08] Oh, that's a very common thing. -[1548.14 --> 1549.20] You know what I was told once? -[1549.62 --> 1550.34] What helps? -[1550.56 --> 1551.10] What's that? -[1551.44 --> 1555.32] If you picture everyone in your underwear, that helps you not to be so nervous. -[1555.80 --> 1556.84] Okay, let's try. -[1559.20 --> 1565.12] Did that not work? -[1565.38 --> 1565.74] No. -[1566.22 --> 1570.20] Okay, well then stop doing that and let's just pretend it's you and me and it'll go fine, okay? -[1570.52 --> 1570.88] Okay. -[1571.32 --> 1574.66] We're going to read a story today about Saul. -[1575.20 --> 1575.82] Who's that? -[1575.94 --> 1577.62] Well, you might know him better as Paul. -[1578.16 --> 1579.18] Oh, Paul. -[1579.50 --> 1581.40] Yeah, we're going to learn about how he became Paul. -[1581.46 --> 1582.10] Does that sound good? -[1582.34 --> 1582.64] Yeah. -[1582.64 --> 1583.66] Okay, so let's do that. -[1583.90 --> 1584.78] I've got the book here. -[1585.22 --> 1586.78] You're going to help me open it as usual, right, Hank? -[1586.98 --> 1587.26] Mm-hmm. -[1589.76 --> 1593.38] Good job, Hank. -[1594.60 --> 1595.10] All right. -[1596.18 --> 1597.06] Here's the story. -[1597.78 --> 1598.88] You can see the picture at home. -[1598.94 --> 1599.46] Do you see that? -[1600.00 --> 1600.50] Everybody here? -[1600.60 --> 1601.90] It's very far away, but it's there. -[1601.98 --> 1602.30] See that? -[1602.30 --> 1604.42] So, this is called Saul. -[1604.72 --> 1605.12] Saul. -[1605.46 --> 1605.94] Here we go. -[1606.82 --> 1609.00] I'm so smart and important. -[1609.40 --> 1612.72] Saul thought he had traveled to Damascus as he traveled to Damascus. -[1613.34 --> 1617.42] Saul was a well-known Jewish religious teacher and he was very proud. -[1617.86 --> 1621.26] He was also someone who was feared by those who followed Jesus. -[1621.64 --> 1622.20] Oh, no. -[1622.20 --> 1627.76] On this trip, like so many times before, he was on his way to get rid of people who followed -[1627.76 --> 1628.10] Jesus. -[1628.64 --> 1630.68] But God had other plans. -[1631.76 --> 1635.72] Suddenly, a bright white light shot from the heaven and blinded Saul. -[1635.88 --> 1639.08] I can't see, Saul yelled as he stumbled to the ground. -[1639.86 --> 1641.50] Saul, why do you hate me? -[1641.70 --> 1643.08] Said a deep, booming voice. -[1643.86 --> 1644.92] Who are you, Lord? -[1645.26 --> 1646.00] Saul asked. -[1646.46 --> 1648.10] I'm Jesus, the voice answered. -[1648.56 --> 1651.42] Go to the city of Damascus and wait for me there. -[1652.42 --> 1655.82] Saul waited in Damascus, terribly afraid and unable to see. -[1656.34 --> 1658.34] But Jesus did not leave him without help. -[1658.78 --> 1661.00] He sent his friend Ananias to Saul. -[1661.68 --> 1663.38] Lay your hands on him, Jesus said. -[1663.54 --> 1666.68] I want Saul to see and be filled with my Holy Spirit. -[1667.32 --> 1669.96] So Ananias put his hands on Saul's head. -[1670.34 --> 1673.40] Something that looked like fish scales fell from Saul's eyes. -[1673.80 --> 1674.28] Wow! -[1674.64 --> 1676.34] And he could see again. -[1676.98 --> 1680.60] All at once, Jesus' spirit filled his heart with love and joy. -[1681.44 --> 1686.26] Saul, the one who hated Jesus, became one of Jesus' most famous followers. -[1686.80 --> 1688.46] The disciple named Paul. -[1688.96 --> 1689.44] Wow! -[1690.00 --> 1691.04] Isn't that a cool story? -[1691.32 --> 1691.66] Yeah! -[1692.00 --> 1693.34] What stands out to you in that story? -[1693.62 --> 1695.66] I can't believe he went blind! -[1696.06 --> 1697.54] That is crazy that he went blind. -[1697.62 --> 1699.32] I mean, that would have helped you out this morning, wouldn't it? -[1699.32 --> 1700.10] He went, mm-hmm. -[1701.44 --> 1704.14] But I don't think Saul liked it so much. -[1704.26 --> 1704.90] Do you think so? -[1705.10 --> 1705.98] I don't think so. -[1706.16 --> 1707.00] You know what I think is cool? -[1707.28 --> 1709.48] Do you know what he had to do right after he became blind? -[1709.86 --> 1710.18] What? -[1710.58 --> 1712.32] He had to go to church. -[1712.78 --> 1716.78] He had to go to a church and meet a pastor, essentially, Ananias. -[1716.94 --> 1718.12] And that was his first thing. -[1718.18 --> 1722.86] So he went to this town and Ananias prayed over him and put his hands on him. -[1723.28 --> 1724.70] And then he was healed of his blindness. -[1725.26 --> 1725.62] Wow! -[1725.90 --> 1726.78] That is cool! -[1727.48 --> 1728.54] That's how God works, right? -[1728.58 --> 1729.66] He works through people. -[1729.86 --> 1731.18] And so that's a good story about that. -[1731.26 --> 1733.26] And then God worked through Paul. -[1734.00 --> 1738.04] So Paul could write all those letters to all of the churches in the area. -[1738.36 --> 1739.08] That's neat! -[1739.74 --> 1740.10] All right. -[1740.16 --> 1743.64] So we're going to have children's worship time today for you at church today. -[1743.64 --> 1746.58] And if you're at home, I know that you've got some crafts and stuff that you can do. -[1746.70 --> 1749.30] So feel free to pull those out and start doing those. -[1749.66 --> 1752.70] And if you're in church today, after I pray, you can go to children's worship time. -[1752.82 --> 1757.58] So I think the older crowd is going with Mrs. Dolores in the multipurpose room. -[1757.62 --> 1761.80] And the younger ones are going to the other side of the church there with Mrs. Wendy, I believe. -[1761.98 --> 1763.80] So you can head there as soon as I pray. -[1763.88 --> 1764.30] Should we pray? -[1764.54 --> 1764.80] Yeah! -[1765.04 --> 1765.46] Let's pray. -[1766.70 --> 1768.02] Dear God, thank you so much for this day. -[1768.02 --> 1771.84] Thank you for church, that we could come here and that you work through your people, God. -[1771.84 --> 1776.70] Thank you for the story of Saul and Paul and how you changed his heart and that he could -[1776.70 --> 1779.42] be used for your glory so many times, Lord. -[1779.44 --> 1782.64] We just pray that you will help us be that courageous as well. -[1783.28 --> 1789.18] You change our hearts if it needs changing and allow us to really go out and share your -[1789.18 --> 1790.32] love with those around us. -[1790.40 --> 1791.30] We pray this in your name. -[1791.70 --> 1791.94] Amen. -[1792.44 --> 1792.96] Say bye, Hank. -[1793.16 --> 1793.76] Bye, Hank! -[1793.76 --> 1794.70] Bye, everyone. -[1801.84 --> 1825.16] So good morning. -[1826.12 --> 1829.72] We continue our worship offerings this morning. -[1829.72 --> 1834.82] Today's offering is for the budget, which supports the ministry of this church. -[1835.36 --> 1837.66] And our special offering is for Teen Challenge. -[1838.74 --> 1843.64] Teen Challenge strives to help men and women recover from substance abuse problems and is -[1843.64 --> 1848.86] based on the belief that a relationship with God through Jesus is the only way to find permanent -[1848.86 --> 1850.52] and lasting freedom. -[1850.52 --> 1858.00] So as such, Teen Challenge is a Christian discipleship program, which transformation and not treatment -[1858.00 --> 1858.58] is the key. -[1859.72 --> 1866.52] Jesus said, come to me, all you who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. -[1867.66 --> 1871.80] And through supporting Teen Challenge, we speak this truth into broken lives. -[1873.36 --> 1876.12] Next week, our offering will be for World Renew Canada. -[1877.12 --> 1882.10] When disaster strikes, World Renew responds through its Disaster Response Service. -[1882.10 --> 1886.60] Currently, World Renew is responding to the COVID-19 crises in India. -[1887.82 --> 1892.66] So today, we have the budget and Teen Challenge and the next week, World Renew. -[1893.30 --> 1894.42] Please give generously. -[1912.10 --> 1925.08] Pastor Sombrose is on the Global Renew is root forилоability and the basis of COVID-19, and patient -[1925.08 --> 1925.66] is the next week. -[1925.66 --> 1929.82] The World Renew is on the basis for becoming a part that occurs. -[1929.82 --> 1932.40] So there is also about every single year before people stay looked at the NHS ofulys and the -[1932.40 --> 1933.90] igning working on users. -[1933.90 --> 1934.84] Basically, the츠ical 함ijah will make a difference. -[1934.84 --> 1936.04] So let's go a second week. -[1936.04 --> 1937.82] лекramanda.com -[1937.82 --> 1954.32] Good morning. -[1957.90 --> 1961.42] We are going to come into prayer here in a moment. -[1961.42 --> 1968.38] And I wanted to share a few words with you here this morning. -[1969.44 --> 1972.00] And if I choke up, I apologize beforehand. -[1972.74 --> 1979.06] But you will recall a few years ago in church here, -[1979.14 --> 1985.88] we had a time where we were able to share some of our favorite songs. -[1987.34 --> 1990.56] And I certainly felt the Lord tugging at my heart that time. -[1990.56 --> 1993.72] And there was a song that was close to my heart. -[1994.84 --> 1997.58] And we will be singing it later this morning. -[1998.86 --> 2001.06] And here I am leading you in prayer. -[2001.20 --> 2005.98] And I always think, wow, the Lord has a hand in everything. -[2007.60 --> 2009.22] You know, and here I was in the kitchen, -[2010.04 --> 2014.36] preparing the elements for the Lord's table this morning. -[2016.00 --> 2019.30] And I hear the worship team singing, abide with me. -[2020.56 --> 2028.66] Needless to say, you never know when your emotions hit high or low or where they go. -[2028.78 --> 2031.74] But the tears were flowing, let me tell you. -[2031.82 --> 2036.44] So if the bread tastes a little salty this morning, I apologize. -[2036.44 --> 2045.96] And, you know, I will just give you a real abbreviated form of what I was mentioning or telling you a few years ago. -[2046.04 --> 2051.90] But whether you believe it or not, and Wendy, my wife, has a hard time with this, -[2051.90 --> 2053.28] but I am an introvert. -[2054.78 --> 2056.76] And I really am. -[2056.92 --> 2060.46] And you will see generally I like to be in the back of the room. -[2060.54 --> 2067.66] I'm not one who likes to speak, but I have, I'm going to say I'm thankful the Lord has gifted me with that. -[2069.06 --> 2070.78] Yet I'd rather be silent. -[2070.78 --> 2074.38] And so I am by myself. -[2074.50 --> 2075.90] I enjoy the times alone. -[2076.00 --> 2078.20] I enjoy the times with my wife incredibly. -[2078.40 --> 2080.84] But being by myself is wonderful. -[2081.66 --> 2085.14] And in my line of work also when I was younger, as a young man, -[2085.20 --> 2088.86] I was out in the field plowing and disking land and so on. -[2090.32 --> 2091.30] Always singing. -[2091.50 --> 2093.42] Music was always close to my heart. -[2093.42 --> 2097.64] And so I sang the song, Abide With Me. -[2097.74 --> 2102.60] And I always thought if I'm by myself, if there's one person I want with me, it's my Lord. -[2103.66 --> 2106.58] And I remember singing that song over and over. -[2106.78 --> 2108.94] And in those days sometimes it was just the first few lines. -[2109.00 --> 2109.90] That was all I knew. -[2110.32 --> 2113.36] And then later on I thought, I wrote it on paper. -[2114.94 --> 2118.24] And while I'm traveling across this country for business, -[2119.44 --> 2122.38] so often I had that paper on the seat beside me. -[2122.38 --> 2125.94] And while I'm driving I would look over and see the words and then sing the song. -[2125.98 --> 2126.96] And I sang that over and over. -[2127.02 --> 2130.80] And then I had to rewrite the music because the paper was so worn out. -[2131.22 --> 2133.66] Today, thankfully, it's on here. -[2133.78 --> 2137.80] And I just pop it out on the phone and you read the words and sing. -[2140.62 --> 2145.04] And then of course, almost 16 years ago, -[2147.04 --> 2151.16] while I was in Toronto, I got that phone call. -[2152.40 --> 2155.38] That our son David had passed away. -[2157.20 --> 2162.54] In his sleep here at home and totally, totally unexpected. -[2162.54 --> 2171.48] and I was doing about 110 kilometers an hour down the QEW, -[2173.04 --> 2176.90] actually coming home, going to my hotel room from church that Sunday morning. -[2177.82 --> 2180.50] And I remember hitting the steering wheel so hard, -[2181.50 --> 2183.28] I thought I had broken the car. -[2184.68 --> 2188.82] And then I pulled out that song, out of my briefcase, and I started singing. -[2189.66 --> 2192.26] And within hours, I was on the plane back home, -[2192.54 --> 2196.78] and they put me in business class all by myself, -[2197.86 --> 2203.88] and I pulled that paper out, sang it, I read it over and over, -[2203.94 --> 2207.28] and the tears were flowing, and when I left, the paper stayed on the table -[2207.28 --> 2211.72] because it was so wet that I couldn't really peel it off anymore. -[2214.40 --> 2218.16] And so every time I hear, not every time, but most times when we sing that song, -[2218.16 --> 2222.08] when I hear that song, it really tugs at my heart and creates tears. -[2223.16 --> 2227.50] And then there are other songs that tug you at other times for other occasions. -[2227.50 --> 2233.18] But when I hear that song and we sing that song, certainly these times come very clear to me, -[2233.28 --> 2235.52] especially my introvertedness. -[2236.48 --> 2239.80] And I just thought I would share that with you. -[2239.86 --> 2242.32] We're going to be singing Abide With Me later on in the service today, -[2242.32 --> 2246.54] and so I thought I would just want to share this testimony with you. -[2247.40 --> 2253.50] As we come to the Lord in prayer, I want to bring a couple things to note here. -[2253.94 --> 2261.86] This past week, Bob Viss had his first chemo treatment for lymphoma cancer, -[2261.86 --> 2266.72] and indications are the first treatment went well for him, -[2266.78 --> 2270.08] and we pray that there may be continued healing for him. -[2270.82 --> 2274.12] Janet Boot has some health concerns as well, -[2274.12 --> 2278.18] and she will be going in for a scan tomorrow, -[2278.18 --> 2281.52] and we need to keep her in our prayers as well. -[2281.60 --> 2288.16] And Ismay, she also had some gallstones and a kidney stone in the last couple days, -[2288.22 --> 2292.38] and she's in a rather fair amount of pain in the hospital, -[2292.52 --> 2294.04] and they're dealing with that and the inflammation, -[2294.38 --> 2299.00] and so she will be going under surgery later this week as well, -[2299.52 --> 2301.06] as soon as the inflammation comes down. -[2301.06 --> 2304.16] Shall we come before the Lord in prayer? -[2308.74 --> 2316.66] Heavenly Father, we are here as your people, as your children, -[2317.48 --> 2325.28] and Lord, we give you thanks for allowing us to be here together this morning to worship, -[2325.90 --> 2330.06] and Lord, may we also worship with those who are at home, -[2330.06 --> 2332.30] watching on their screens. -[2332.84 --> 2335.40] We thank you, Lord, for that technology as well, -[2335.50 --> 2338.64] and even though it may not be quite what we want, -[2339.64 --> 2345.80] it does bring us together in virtual ways, and we thank you. -[2347.28 --> 2350.46] And Lord, as we worship this morning in word and in song, -[2350.58 --> 2354.28] we pray, Lord, that you would accept the words that we speak. -[2354.28 --> 2360.66] And Lord, as we sing in our hearts, may that too be meaningful. -[2365.36 --> 2369.30] And Lord, even if we are not able to hold back the words, -[2371.48 --> 2374.28] we pray, Lord, that you may find that acceptable also. -[2374.28 --> 2381.14] And yet, Lord, may we come here because we are a broken people. -[2384.86 --> 2388.02] Lord, we have fallen short so often this past week, -[2388.06 --> 2393.50] and we come before you this morning asking, Lord, for your spirit to work within us, -[2394.06 --> 2399.68] to lead us and guide us in our daily lives so that we may be honoring you in all things. -[2399.68 --> 2407.28] And Lord, each day again we pray that there are those around us who may see that you live in us, -[2408.22 --> 2412.32] that we may be a shining light in this community, ourselves, individually, -[2412.46 --> 2418.44] but also, Lord, as a church, may we too be a light to those around us, -[2418.52 --> 2420.74] to the community that surrounds us here. -[2420.74 --> 2426.28] And Lord, we pray that through the food drive that we had yesterday also, -[2426.46 --> 2434.26] that, Lord, may that too speak boldly and clearly to those around us here, -[2434.36 --> 2437.70] that they may see there is something different happening here. -[2440.02 --> 2445.98] And that, Lord, as you bless us incredibly, may we too bless those around us who have less. -[2450.74 --> 2455.90] Lord, we know there are others who struggle also. -[2457.46 --> 2462.42] Within our own family here are also those in the community at large and further abroad. -[2462.60 --> 2465.84] Lord, we want to remember the indigenous peoples of our country. -[2467.46 --> 2477.18] Lord, as they try to continue to understand and deal with the children that have passed away many years ago in residential homes, -[2477.18 --> 2485.46] Lord, may we too struggle with that and try to understand, Lord, how you want us to deal with that. -[2485.54 --> 2491.04] May we be bold about that and speak clearly through you, Lord, -[2491.12 --> 2499.18] that we too may be able to help in ways that we may not even know are imaginable at this time. -[2499.18 --> 2508.62] Lord, in our own community, we have many who struggle. -[2509.64 --> 2514.74] And Lord, you know them by name and may we too speak them by name also. -[2514.92 --> 2519.36] And yet we know that we will forget some and perhaps not mention others. -[2521.68 --> 2523.16] Yet, Lord, you know them. -[2523.74 --> 2525.74] Lord, we pray for Janet. -[2525.74 --> 2534.24] Lord, we pray that the issues that she might be dealing with may be healed. -[2534.36 --> 2539.68] We pray for Bob Viss that his cancer too may go away. -[2540.18 --> 2542.44] We know, Lord, that you are the creator of all miracles. -[2542.68 --> 2546.94] And we pray that here too, Lord, you would bring a miracle to Bob's life. -[2546.94 --> 2556.12] Lord, we pray for Ismay that she too may be healed of her stones and the pain that she is going through. -[2559.32 --> 2566.22] Lord, we thank you for John and Pearl that John's health also may be on the increase. -[2567.34 --> 2571.36] Lord, he too is healing from his heart attack that he had some time ago. -[2571.36 --> 2583.34] Lord, we pray for Mark Visser that her surgery may go well this coming week also on her foot. -[2583.58 --> 2585.28] We pray for Judy and Diane, Lord. -[2585.48 --> 2593.58] We have prayed years for them and we still know, Lord, and believe that you will create miracles of healing in their lives. -[2593.58 --> 2604.88] And Lord, there are others within our family that struggle with isolation and other COVID issues perhaps. -[2607.98 --> 2609.92] May each one experience healing. -[2611.62 --> 2616.32] We pray for those in our community, Lord, who are working on our behalf. -[2616.82 --> 2623.20] Trying to bring healing to the many who are dealing with health issues. -[2623.58 --> 2629.16] Lord, we pray for our church as we continue to minister. -[2630.20 --> 2632.88] Lord, we thank you that we are able to gather here again. -[2633.88 --> 2638.48] And we pray that in due time we may come together as a family. -[2642.32 --> 2646.22] Lord, we pray for the programs that continue to go. -[2646.22 --> 2648.76] And we pray for the church staff. -[2649.52 --> 2653.18] Chris, Kevin, Josh, and others, Lord. -[2653.18 --> 2657.58] And the staff in the offices, Lord, who work here each day. -[2658.48 --> 2659.56] Bless them in their work. -[2659.82 --> 2660.38] Guide them. -[2663.96 --> 2669.22] Lord, we pray that as we worship you this morning also, that as Pastor Chris leads us through your word, -[2669.34 --> 2672.70] you would give him the words that need to be spoken. -[2672.70 --> 2675.12] And we pray, Lord, for hearts that may be opened. -[2676.24 --> 2683.08] May hear, take, and accept the words that go from the Lord. -[2683.14 --> 2685.40] We pray that we may all be drawn closer to you. -[2687.92 --> 2689.98] We ask for a blessing on this service, Lord. -[2690.04 --> 2691.10] In your name we pray. -[2691.52 --> 2691.88] Amen. -[2702.70 --> 2709.28] We're going to spend some time in God's word together. -[2709.98 --> 2712.96] We're going to look at a story from Mark. -[2713.02 --> 2715.94] It may be a very familiar story to you. -[2716.06 --> 2718.40] And so we're going to dig into what that means. -[2718.54 --> 2722.82] So if you have a Bible, either in your hands or on your device, whatever the case may be, -[2722.82 --> 2725.72] I'm going to encourage you to grab it, turn it on, open it up. -[2725.96 --> 2729.92] Mark 2, we're going to read verse 1 through 12. -[2729.92 --> 2731.80] Mark 2, we're going to read verse 1 through 12. -[2732.70 --> 2739.22] Hear the word of the Lord from Mark 2. -[2741.50 --> 2745.88] A few days later, when Jesus again entered Capernaum, -[2746.54 --> 2748.80] the people heard that he had come home. -[2750.24 --> 2754.60] They gathered in such large numbers that there was no room left, -[2755.42 --> 2757.46] not even outside the door. -[2758.46 --> 2761.02] And he preached the word to them. -[2762.70 --> 2767.66] Some men came, bringing to him a paralyzed man carried by four of them. -[2769.02 --> 2771.80] And since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, -[2772.00 --> 2775.42] they made an opening in the roof above Jesus by digging through it -[2775.42 --> 2778.66] and then lowered the mat the man was laying on. -[2780.26 --> 2784.86] When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralyzed man, -[2784.86 --> 2788.20] Son, Son, your sins are forgiven. -[2790.40 --> 2793.80] Now, some of the teachers of the law were sitting there thinking to themselves, -[2793.96 --> 2796.40] Why does this fellow talk like that? -[2796.54 --> 2798.30] He is blaspheming. -[2798.64 --> 2801.26] Who can forgive sins but God alone? -[2802.94 --> 2808.08] And immediately, Jesus knew in his spirit that this was what they were thinking in their hearts. -[2808.08 --> 2808.90] And he said to them, -[2808.90 --> 2811.42] Why are you thinking these things? -[2811.82 --> 2814.68] Which is easier, to say to the paralyzed man, -[2814.80 --> 2816.04] Your sins are forgiven, -[2816.30 --> 2817.38] or to say, -[2817.54 --> 2820.10] Get up, take your mat, and walk? -[2821.50 --> 2826.82] But I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins. -[2826.82 --> 2829.32] And so he said to the man, -[2830.46 --> 2832.00] I tell you, get up. -[2833.10 --> 2835.16] Take your mat and go home. -[2836.38 --> 2840.86] He got up, he took his mat, and he walked out in full view of them all. -[2841.38 --> 2844.72] This amazed everyone, and they praised God, saying, -[2845.22 --> 2848.58] We have never seen anything like this. -[2849.70 --> 2851.28] This is the word of the Lord. -[2856.82 --> 2861.26] So like we said, this is a really familiar story to many of us. -[2861.82 --> 2865.50] Its pages paint children's Bibles for generations. -[2865.50 --> 2872.52] And in this story, what Jesus reveals to us is a collision of need. -[2873.16 --> 2879.84] The collision of need between the physical realities that people face and live in the midst of -[2879.84 --> 2885.30] and the spiritual realities that we live as consequence in. -[2885.30 --> 2895.34] The story is a collision of need, and it asks us to wonder together about our own priorities. -[2895.90 --> 2900.46] To wonder together about what really matters. -[2902.16 --> 2903.44] Now here you have Jesus. -[2903.68 --> 2909.22] He returns to Capernaum, which in his ministry sort of becomes his home base. -[2909.46 --> 2911.60] You hear that people say he has returned home. -[2911.98 --> 2914.72] So Capernaum, which is on the north of the Sea of Galilee, -[2914.72 --> 2920.30] is the place where the Sermon on the Mount, for instance, was thought to have been preached. -[2921.30 --> 2926.20] And so Jesus comes to Capernaum, and he is known here. -[2926.46 --> 2928.82] And so he packs them in for preaching. -[2928.94 --> 2931.18] No physical distancing rules apply. -[2931.76 --> 2936.86] He packs them in such that these four men who come with their friend who has been paralyzed for life -[2936.86 --> 2938.26] cannot get to him. -[2938.26 --> 2940.60] They cannot break through the crowds. -[2941.92 --> 2945.04] And so because they couldn't get through, they went up. -[2945.04 --> 2952.56] And then going up, likely to the flat roof of the house that Jesus had found himself in, -[2952.62 --> 2954.86] which probably would have had stairs going up the side, -[2954.94 --> 2959.38] because in the summer months they would have slept on the roof out of doors, -[2959.38 --> 2963.34] because it was cooler than sleeping in the box that was the small house. -[2963.72 --> 2968.76] And so they would have gone up, and they start digging through the clay and tile roof -[2968.76 --> 2972.50] in order to make an opening for Jesus to come down. -[2972.60 --> 2976.74] So to get to Jesus, these four men demolish a house. -[2979.08 --> 2982.92] Just out of curiosity's sake, when was the last time you demolished a house, -[2983.52 --> 2987.06] literally or metaphorically, to get to Jesus? -[2987.06 --> 2995.10] These four men knew where they needed to go and to whom they needed to go, -[2995.24 --> 2996.72] and so they tore down the roof. -[2999.42 --> 3005.12] When Jesus saw their faith, now get that, he says their faith. -[3005.22 --> 3009.40] So when Jesus sees the faith of the four men who had tore down the roof, -[3009.40 --> 3012.74] he says to the other, to the paralyzed one, -[3013.22 --> 3016.16] son, your sins are forgiven. -[3017.90 --> 3019.58] And so quick, just as a point here, -[3019.64 --> 3025.76] if you've ever doubted the importance or the power of the faith of your brothers and sisters for your life, -[3026.92 --> 3028.10] hear this story. -[3029.44 --> 3034.22] Our faith matters for you individually. -[3037.22 --> 3044.56] Our faith carries one into the presence of Jesus. -[3044.56 --> 3047.14] Jesus says, -[3047.14 --> 3050.98] son, your sins are forgiven. -[3052.64 --> 3054.10] And of course, the teachers of the law, -[3054.50 --> 3055.72] their minds are blown, -[3055.90 --> 3058.08] they're flabbergasted and offended, right? -[3058.18 --> 3059.28] Who is this man? -[3060.90 --> 3063.56] Now this actually does make sense, right? -[3063.62 --> 3066.42] That only God can forgive sins. -[3066.42 --> 3072.84] Only the person sinned against can forgive the action committed, right? -[3072.94 --> 3078.20] Forgiveness can only be offered by the one against whom the sin has been committed. -[3078.40 --> 3081.94] And so Jesus, in this moment, is saying two things, right? -[3081.94 --> 3082.82] By forgiving sins. -[3082.94 --> 3085.90] One, he's saying, this is ultimately against me. -[3086.38 --> 3090.28] Two, Jesus in this moment is saying, I am God. -[3090.28 --> 3092.82] The Father and I are one. -[3093.22 --> 3095.24] Who can forgive sins but God alone? -[3095.58 --> 3097.32] Jesus says, exactly. -[3099.90 --> 3101.28] He knows their hearts. -[3101.98 --> 3104.26] And he reads their hearts. -[3104.50 --> 3107.66] And he knows their desires and their will and their thoughts. -[3107.90 --> 3109.70] And so he says to these teachers of the law, -[3109.80 --> 3111.36] what's easier to say, -[3111.72 --> 3112.92] your sins are forgiven, -[3113.26 --> 3115.32] or get up, take your mat and walk. -[3115.32 --> 3120.52] Now when I was younger and when I read this text, -[3120.52 --> 3123.64] I always thought that that was a rhetorical device -[3123.64 --> 3126.78] because of course it's easier to say your sins are forgiven. -[3126.96 --> 3130.92] But the reality is, of course, is that Jesus' word is his power, right? -[3130.96 --> 3132.00] And so it's neither. -[3132.90 --> 3134.40] Neither one is easier to say -[3134.40 --> 3137.50] because Jesus is literally, by saying your sins are forgiven, -[3137.64 --> 3138.32] forgiving sins. -[3138.40 --> 3140.20] And by saying, get up and take your mat and walk, -[3140.42 --> 3142.12] having the power and authority to do that. -[3142.18 --> 3143.82] So neither is easier. -[3143.82 --> 3146.52] His words have power. -[3147.66 --> 3148.16] And then Jesus, -[3148.28 --> 3149.78] and this is one of the reasons why this story -[3149.78 --> 3151.28] is one of my absolute favorite -[3151.28 --> 3152.34] and has been for years -[3152.34 --> 3155.52] because really this is just a boss moment for Jesus, right? -[3155.60 --> 3156.00] He says, -[3156.36 --> 3158.54] but that you may know that the Son of Man -[3158.54 --> 3160.52] has power to forgive sins. -[3160.84 --> 3162.42] And then he turns to the paralyzed man -[3162.42 --> 3163.76] who had been lowered down, -[3163.84 --> 3166.10] who the whole time hasn't said anything in this story. -[3166.44 --> 3167.84] He says, I tell you, get up. -[3168.98 --> 3169.66] Take your mat. -[3171.30 --> 3171.96] Go home. -[3173.82 --> 3177.22] And then boom, immediately he gets up. -[3177.32 --> 3179.58] He rolls up that mat and he walks out the door. -[3179.86 --> 3182.28] That crowd that was pushing in and pressing in -[3182.28 --> 3184.04] and that made it impossible for him to get there -[3184.04 --> 3186.10] just spreads apart. -[3187.36 --> 3188.34] And he walks right through, -[3190.28 --> 3193.50] praising and worshiping God. -[3193.56 --> 3195.72] And they amazed everyone and they praised God, -[3195.82 --> 3199.42] saying, we have never seen anything like this. -[3199.42 --> 3202.70] This is a story of collision of need, -[3202.82 --> 3204.58] physical and spiritual. -[3204.70 --> 3208.18] This is a story of Jesus going way down deep -[3208.18 --> 3210.98] to the real problem. -[3212.46 --> 3213.62] But here it is, right? -[3213.68 --> 3216.22] For us, it's so easy to think -[3216.22 --> 3220.86] that the big problem is the one right in front of us. -[3220.86 --> 3225.18] Whether that's poverty or hunger or sex trafficking -[3225.18 --> 3226.54] or COVID-19, -[3226.90 --> 3228.60] whether that's not having the right clothes -[3228.60 --> 3229.54] or the right car, -[3229.82 --> 3232.64] whether it's a disability or a health issue. -[3232.82 --> 3235.84] But Jesus is saying effectively here, -[3236.22 --> 3238.90] don't miss the forest for the trees. -[3240.70 --> 3241.78] David Platt, -[3242.40 --> 3245.70] he has a quote on this passage -[3245.70 --> 3246.52] that I think is beautiful. -[3246.52 --> 3247.18] He says, -[3247.86 --> 3249.18] the man's ultimate need, -[3249.26 --> 3250.16] his ultimate need, -[3250.30 --> 3251.80] is not healing from God, -[3251.90 --> 3254.04] but holiness before God. -[3255.00 --> 3256.06] Our ultimate need -[3256.06 --> 3258.46] is not to be rid of our maladies, -[3258.56 --> 3261.88] but reconciled to our maker. -[3265.64 --> 3268.74] There's a children's book series. -[3269.12 --> 3270.54] You're probably familiar with it, -[3270.56 --> 3272.26] or at least one book of the series. -[3272.38 --> 3273.46] In the Chronicles of Narnia, -[3273.46 --> 3275.94] you might know The Lion, -[3276.06 --> 3276.88] the Witch, and the Wardrobe. -[3277.62 --> 3279.32] There's another book in that series -[3279.32 --> 3280.50] written by C.S. Lewis -[3280.50 --> 3283.34] called The Voyage of the Dawn Treader. -[3284.16 --> 3284.60] And in that, -[3284.84 --> 3287.60] there's a story of this boy named Eustace. -[3287.88 --> 3290.60] Now, Eustace is a real snob of a kid. -[3291.68 --> 3292.92] There are other words I would use -[3292.92 --> 3294.08] if this wasn't being recorded. -[3295.48 --> 3296.66] He hates everybody, -[3296.78 --> 3298.44] and everybody hates him. -[3298.52 --> 3299.98] He is mean and vindictive -[3299.98 --> 3301.44] and cuttingly sarcastic, -[3301.44 --> 3304.86] and he's traveling with his cousins -[3304.86 --> 3307.62] and this group of Narnians on a ship. -[3307.78 --> 3308.04] And this, -[3308.58 --> 3310.46] the travelers come up to an island, -[3310.86 --> 3313.36] and Eustace walks off on his own -[3313.36 --> 3315.50] because he's angry and upset with them, -[3315.62 --> 3317.72] and he stumbles across a cave. -[3317.94 --> 3318.96] And in this cave, -[3319.08 --> 3321.76] there's this massive pile of treasure. -[3324.10 --> 3326.62] And he sees this pile of treasure -[3326.62 --> 3328.72] of gold and jewels and the like, -[3328.72 --> 3330.78] and he thinks of all the things -[3330.78 --> 3332.22] that he will be able to do -[3332.22 --> 3333.88] with these riches. -[3334.06 --> 3335.74] He thinks of all the revenge -[3335.74 --> 3337.40] he will be able to met out, -[3337.48 --> 3338.48] of all the mean things -[3338.48 --> 3339.62] that he will be able to do. -[3339.80 --> 3341.76] And he spends so much time -[3341.76 --> 3343.86] thinking about all of these things -[3343.86 --> 3345.42] that he ends up falling asleep -[3345.42 --> 3347.24] on this pile of treasure. -[3348.06 --> 3349.04] And what you find out -[3349.04 --> 3350.60] as the reader of this story -[3350.60 --> 3353.12] is that Eustace has fallen asleep -[3353.12 --> 3354.52] on a dragon's hoard. -[3354.52 --> 3357.54] Now the next morning, -[3358.20 --> 3359.68] because he fell asleep, -[3359.80 --> 3360.36] Lewis says, -[3360.76 --> 3362.36] thinking dragonish thoughts -[3362.36 --> 3363.60] of lust and pride, -[3363.84 --> 3365.54] he wakes up to find himself -[3365.54 --> 3367.42] turned into a dragon. -[3368.56 --> 3370.16] And after trying to find a way -[3370.16 --> 3371.48] to change himself back, -[3371.66 --> 3373.08] the truth that he is going to be -[3373.08 --> 3373.86] a dragon forever -[3373.86 --> 3375.62] begins to set in on his heart. -[3376.76 --> 3378.34] Now as he's returning to the ship -[3378.34 --> 3380.00] as a dragon, -[3380.16 --> 3382.06] he comes across a lion -[3382.06 --> 3383.56] named Aslan. -[3384.52 --> 3386.16] This is the great lion of Narnia. -[3386.28 --> 3387.20] It's the Christ figure -[3387.20 --> 3388.20] in the series. -[3388.34 --> 3390.58] And Aslan approaches Eustace, -[3390.64 --> 3391.68] who's still a dragon, -[3391.68 --> 3393.82] and he leads him to a pool of water -[3393.82 --> 3395.10] and he tells him -[3395.10 --> 3396.60] that he must undress -[3396.60 --> 3398.08] and jump into the water. -[3399.42 --> 3401.22] And so Eustace begins to pull -[3401.22 --> 3403.80] and to claw at his scaly flesh, -[3404.14 --> 3406.72] to pull bits of dragon skin off. -[3406.76 --> 3407.56] And he works at it -[3407.56 --> 3408.30] and he works at it -[3408.30 --> 3408.88] and he works at it -[3408.88 --> 3409.62] and he thinks he's -[3409.62 --> 3410.66] accomplishing something. -[3410.66 --> 3412.10] And when he looks -[3412.10 --> 3413.58] and works and turns around, -[3413.70 --> 3416.30] he sees this pile of dragon skin -[3416.30 --> 3417.42] beside himself, -[3417.62 --> 3418.48] like a snake -[3418.48 --> 3420.16] having shed its skin. -[3421.46 --> 3423.26] But as he looks down at himself, -[3423.52 --> 3424.76] much to his own dismay -[3424.76 --> 3426.30] and tragedy, -[3427.06 --> 3427.84] he's still a dragon. -[3429.22 --> 3430.20] And so he tries again -[3430.20 --> 3431.26] and again and again -[3431.26 --> 3432.70] and it's always the same result. -[3432.80 --> 3436.12] A small pile of shed dragonish skin, -[3436.32 --> 3438.26] but still a dragon. -[3438.26 --> 3440.86] So Aslan approaches him -[3440.86 --> 3441.58] and he says, -[3442.08 --> 3443.72] you're going to have to let me -[3443.72 --> 3445.18] go deeper. -[3449.10 --> 3450.36] Eustace later returns -[3450.36 --> 3451.60] to his companions -[3451.60 --> 3452.78] as a boy again -[3452.78 --> 3454.78] and he describes this event, -[3454.88 --> 3455.32] what happened. -[3456.08 --> 3456.86] And this is what he says. -[3458.62 --> 3460.66] This is Eustace's testimony. -[3460.66 --> 3464.08] I was afraid of his claws, -[3464.30 --> 3465.14] I could tell you, -[3465.58 --> 3467.40] but I was pretty nearly desperate now. -[3468.54 --> 3469.90] Now the very first tear -[3469.90 --> 3471.46] that he made was so deep -[3471.46 --> 3472.72] that I thought it had gone -[3472.72 --> 3474.66] right to my heart. -[3475.70 --> 3478.10] And when he began pulling the skin off, -[3478.22 --> 3480.28] it hurt worse than anything -[3480.28 --> 3481.24] I'd ever felt. -[3482.14 --> 3484.20] Well, he peeled that beastly stuff -[3484.20 --> 3484.88] right off, -[3485.10 --> 3487.12] just as I thought I'd done it myself -[3487.12 --> 3488.16] the other three times, -[3488.16 --> 3489.58] only they hadn't hurt. -[3490.44 --> 3492.50] And there was lying on the grass -[3492.50 --> 3494.54] only ever so much, -[3495.94 --> 3497.60] only ever so much thicker -[3497.60 --> 3498.32] and darker -[3498.32 --> 3499.76] and more knobbly looking -[3499.76 --> 3500.76] than the others had been. -[3501.76 --> 3503.44] And then he caught hold of me -[3503.44 --> 3505.30] and he threw me into the water -[3505.30 --> 3507.30] and it smarted like anything, -[3507.88 --> 3509.04] but only for a moment. -[3509.32 --> 3510.54] And then I had saw -[3510.54 --> 3513.38] I had turned into a boy again. -[3513.38 --> 3516.20] Like Eustace, -[3516.44 --> 3519.68] we need to let Jesus go deeper. -[3520.78 --> 3522.94] We need to let Jesus be our Savior, -[3523.08 --> 3523.98] to let him take us -[3523.98 --> 3525.30] to the heart of the matter. -[3525.42 --> 3526.48] No longer can we hide -[3526.48 --> 3527.84] behind things and desires -[3527.84 --> 3530.20] because we see them as they are, -[3530.26 --> 3530.40] right? -[3530.66 --> 3532.78] Dragonish realities of lust -[3532.78 --> 3534.94] and pride and idolatry. -[3535.48 --> 3536.64] Jesus has come -[3536.64 --> 3538.30] and so he tells the paralytic -[3538.30 --> 3539.00] and he tells you -[3539.00 --> 3539.82] and he tells me -[3539.82 --> 3541.76] and he comes to give us -[3541.76 --> 3542.78] new hearts -[3542.78 --> 3543.98] and new lives. -[3544.98 --> 3545.08] Right? -[3545.14 --> 3545.82] This is the work -[3545.82 --> 3546.64] that is celebrated -[3546.64 --> 3547.70] in baptism -[3547.70 --> 3548.96] and in just a moment -[3548.96 --> 3550.22] in the Lord's Supper -[3550.22 --> 3551.82] as we take that together, -[3551.94 --> 3552.12] right? -[3552.16 --> 3552.70] That Jesus, -[3552.96 --> 3555.00] by his perfect life, -[3555.32 --> 3557.04] by his death in our place -[3557.04 --> 3558.84] and by the sure victory over sin -[3558.84 --> 3559.78] that is marked -[3559.78 --> 3560.92] by his resurrection, -[3561.34 --> 3562.38] that this Jesus -[3562.38 --> 3564.64] gives us a new identity, -[3566.06 --> 3566.60] an identity -[3566.60 --> 3567.68] which holds him -[3567.68 --> 3568.68] at the core, -[3568.68 --> 3569.46] an identity -[3569.46 --> 3570.52] that's no longer ruled -[3570.52 --> 3571.18] by sin -[3571.18 --> 3572.42] but by gratitude. -[3572.42 --> 3573.30] It's an identity -[3573.30 --> 3575.04] that comes to the table -[3575.04 --> 3575.68] this morning -[3575.68 --> 3577.60] hungry for Jesus. -[3579.98 --> 3581.08] God himself -[3581.08 --> 3583.62] in the life of his son -[3583.62 --> 3585.22] has reconciled -[3585.22 --> 3586.24] and restored -[3586.24 --> 3587.28] relationship -[3587.28 --> 3588.54] with us. -[3590.70 --> 3592.02] This is the truth -[3592.02 --> 3593.56] of this collision -[3593.56 --> 3594.84] of need -[3594.84 --> 3596.28] in the second half -[3596.28 --> 3596.80] of our text -[3596.80 --> 3597.68] when the teachers -[3597.68 --> 3598.40] of the law -[3598.40 --> 3599.66] heard all that Jesus -[3599.66 --> 3600.50] had said. -[3600.58 --> 3600.76] They said, -[3600.84 --> 3601.80] he's blaspheming. -[3602.06 --> 3603.10] Who can forgive sins -[3603.10 --> 3603.92] but God alone? -[3604.10 --> 3605.26] To which Jesus replies, -[3605.40 --> 3605.56] right, -[3605.64 --> 3606.12] exactly. -[3606.32 --> 3607.72] Who can forgive sins -[3607.72 --> 3608.76] but God alone? -[3609.30 --> 3609.46] Right? -[3609.50 --> 3609.74] And here, -[3609.82 --> 3610.50] Jesus is showing -[3610.50 --> 3611.82] that he is God. -[3611.92 --> 3612.26] He's showing -[3612.26 --> 3613.62] that he is the only one -[3613.62 --> 3614.84] who can fulfill -[3614.84 --> 3615.82] our deepest desires. -[3615.96 --> 3617.00] He is the only one -[3617.00 --> 3617.82] who can cut -[3617.82 --> 3618.54] to the heart -[3618.54 --> 3619.18] of the matter. -[3619.28 --> 3620.22] He is the only one -[3620.22 --> 3621.44] who can lead us -[3621.44 --> 3623.10] into these baptismal waters -[3623.10 --> 3624.04] and raise us up -[3624.04 --> 3624.86] with a new heart. -[3624.86 --> 3625.96] He is the only one -[3625.96 --> 3626.68] who can fulfill -[3626.68 --> 3628.26] our deepest longings -[3628.26 --> 3629.02] and heal -[3629.02 --> 3630.54] our perennial discontent. -[3630.78 --> 3631.90] He is the only one -[3631.90 --> 3632.70] who can overcome -[3632.70 --> 3633.98] lust and pride -[3633.98 --> 3634.70] and idolatry. -[3635.00 --> 3636.88] He is the miracle worker, -[3637.18 --> 3637.80] a healer, -[3637.92 --> 3639.20] and he is more -[3639.20 --> 3640.22] than a means -[3640.22 --> 3640.90] to an end. -[3640.90 --> 3642.90] He is the end itself. -[3643.68 --> 3644.90] He is our Savior. -[3645.86 --> 3648.32] He is your Savior. -[3649.56 --> 3650.70] By his death, -[3650.86 --> 3651.72] we have life. -[3652.02 --> 3652.10] Right? -[3652.14 --> 3653.38] He's more than just -[3653.38 --> 3654.48] the means to fulfill -[3654.48 --> 3655.54] our deepest longings. -[3655.74 --> 3659.06] He is our deepest longings. -[3661.20 --> 3662.22] Someone needs to hear -[3662.22 --> 3662.92] that this morning. -[3664.18 --> 3667.32] Jesus is your deepest longing. -[3669.38 --> 3670.50] You've been looking. -[3670.74 --> 3671.50] You've been working. -[3671.72 --> 3672.96] You've been trying. -[3673.34 --> 3674.12] But it all keeps -[3674.12 --> 3674.92] coming up short. -[3675.98 --> 3676.16] Right? -[3676.18 --> 3676.88] It's all fleeting. -[3677.12 --> 3678.60] It all eventually goes away. -[3678.78 --> 3680.00] It all returns to normal. -[3680.26 --> 3681.40] Hurt and apathy, -[3681.40 --> 3683.02] brokenness returns. -[3683.18 --> 3684.36] No matter how many times -[3684.36 --> 3684.96] you try, -[3685.18 --> 3686.10] no matter how many times -[3686.10 --> 3687.24] it feels for a moment -[3687.24 --> 3688.32] like you've got hold of it, -[3688.46 --> 3689.62] you open your hands -[3689.62 --> 3690.68] and they're still empty. -[3691.28 --> 3693.82] Jesus is your deepest longing. -[3695.28 --> 3695.46] Right? -[3695.50 --> 3696.96] We spend lifetimes looking -[3696.96 --> 3698.16] in all the wrong places, -[3698.52 --> 3700.18] but Jesus is the answer. -[3700.54 --> 3701.16] He is it. -[3701.40 --> 3703.24] He is what your heart needs. -[3703.24 --> 3706.66] The problem is -[3706.66 --> 3709.20] that all that other stuff -[3709.20 --> 3710.56] has built walls up -[3710.56 --> 3712.16] around your heart. -[3712.28 --> 3713.16] All that other stuff -[3713.16 --> 3713.64] has -[3713.64 --> 3718.22] made us dragons. -[3720.02 --> 3721.40] All that other stuff -[3721.40 --> 3722.22] is sin. -[3723.34 --> 3723.44] Right? -[3723.64 --> 3724.38] Sin is -[3724.38 --> 3725.48] the problem, -[3725.64 --> 3727.36] the real problem, -[3727.50 --> 3729.24] the way down deep problem. -[3729.44 --> 3730.62] Sin is what keeps us -[3730.62 --> 3731.90] separated from Jesus. -[3731.90 --> 3733.16] Sin is what keeps us -[3733.16 --> 3734.32] from the true longing -[3734.32 --> 3735.20] of our heart, -[3735.26 --> 3735.86] which is Him. -[3737.06 --> 3738.30] And in this story, -[3739.08 --> 3740.74] Jesus does the miracle -[3740.74 --> 3743.00] of healing the man's paralysis -[3743.00 --> 3744.82] that He might show -[3744.82 --> 3746.08] that He has the power -[3746.08 --> 3747.26] to forgive sins. -[3747.56 --> 3747.64] Right? -[3747.66 --> 3748.84] The greater reality, -[3749.02 --> 3749.82] the greater need, -[3749.92 --> 3750.62] the deeper need -[3750.62 --> 3751.82] is the forgiveness -[3751.82 --> 3753.22] of sins. -[3753.86 --> 3754.86] The Bible tells us -[3754.86 --> 3755.72] over and over -[3755.72 --> 3756.60] and over again -[3756.60 --> 3758.78] that Jesus does miracles -[3758.78 --> 3759.78] in order to, -[3759.88 --> 3760.86] as Hebrews 2 says, -[3760.86 --> 3762.48] confirm the testimony -[3762.48 --> 3763.20] about Him. -[3764.18 --> 3764.32] Right? -[3764.48 --> 3766.14] Miracles authenticate. -[3766.28 --> 3767.32] They validate -[3767.32 --> 3768.12] the message -[3768.12 --> 3769.50] of who Jesus is. -[3770.58 --> 3771.74] The miracles aren't meant -[3771.74 --> 3773.30] for the miracle's sake. -[3774.00 --> 3774.84] They aren't even meant -[3774.84 --> 3776.72] for the recipient's sake. -[3776.80 --> 3776.94] Right? -[3777.00 --> 3777.86] The healed ones, -[3777.94 --> 3778.42] though, of course, -[3778.50 --> 3780.08] their lives are dramatically changed -[3780.08 --> 3780.84] and we praise God -[3780.84 --> 3781.68] for that. -[3782.00 --> 3782.10] Right? -[3782.16 --> 3783.12] Jesus' miracles -[3783.12 --> 3784.48] are so that people -[3784.48 --> 3785.44] will know -[3785.44 --> 3786.74] that what He says, -[3786.82 --> 3787.82] what He preaches, -[3788.66 --> 3789.30] is true. -[3789.30 --> 3790.54] That what He says -[3790.54 --> 3791.18] about Himself -[3791.18 --> 3792.24] is accurate -[3792.24 --> 3793.48] and real. -[3794.56 --> 3794.72] Right? -[3794.78 --> 3796.84] He is the Son of God, -[3796.94 --> 3797.50] God Himself, -[3797.68 --> 3798.22] second person -[3798.22 --> 3799.56] of the Divine Trinity. -[3799.76 --> 3800.86] He is the Messiah, -[3801.00 --> 3801.72] the Anointed One, -[3801.82 --> 3802.24] the Savior, -[3802.38 --> 3803.36] who lived the life -[3803.36 --> 3804.04] I should have lived -[3804.04 --> 3804.88] and died the death -[3804.88 --> 3805.68] that I deserved, -[3805.78 --> 3806.88] who three days later -[3806.88 --> 3807.76] was raised -[3807.76 --> 3809.06] from the dead -[3809.06 --> 3809.74] in victory, -[3809.88 --> 3810.80] who has ascended -[3810.80 --> 3811.56] to the right hand -[3811.56 --> 3812.06] of the Father -[3812.06 --> 3812.74] and is seated -[3812.74 --> 3814.74] at the right hand -[3814.74 --> 3815.16] of God, -[3815.22 --> 3815.76] and from there -[3815.76 --> 3816.32] He will come -[3816.32 --> 3817.16] to judge the living -[3817.16 --> 3817.66] and the dead. -[3817.72 --> 3818.98] That this same Jesus -[3818.98 --> 3819.74] with the Father -[3819.74 --> 3821.06] has sent the Spirit -[3821.06 --> 3821.96] so that you might -[3821.96 --> 3822.86] know Him -[3822.86 --> 3825.02] and that by the person -[3825.02 --> 3826.02] of the Holy Spirit, -[3826.12 --> 3827.16] the person of the Son -[3827.16 --> 3828.28] lives in you -[3828.28 --> 3829.10] by grace -[3829.10 --> 3830.56] through faith -[3830.56 --> 3831.48] if you believe. -[3832.78 --> 3833.80] And that this same Jesus -[3833.80 --> 3835.92] is coming back -[3835.92 --> 3836.86] and He will make -[3836.86 --> 3838.12] all things new -[3838.12 --> 3839.08] and there will be -[3839.08 --> 3839.90] no more death -[3839.90 --> 3840.94] or crying -[3840.94 --> 3841.54] or pain -[3841.54 --> 3842.36] for the old order -[3842.36 --> 3842.86] of things -[3842.86 --> 3844.00] has passed away. -[3844.00 --> 3845.54] The miracles of Jesus -[3845.54 --> 3847.38] prove all of those -[3847.38 --> 3848.30] things true -[3848.30 --> 3850.04] when He says them. -[3851.84 --> 3852.22] Now, -[3852.94 --> 3854.90] when we hear that, -[3855.82 --> 3857.12] some of you -[3857.12 --> 3857.94] start to wonder, -[3858.94 --> 3860.40] well, what about today? -[3861.78 --> 3862.48] And how come we don't -[3862.48 --> 3864.08] see miracles like that -[3864.08 --> 3865.22] today to confirm -[3865.22 --> 3866.30] who Jesus is? -[3867.58 --> 3868.34] And so I want to -[3868.34 --> 3868.82] address that. -[3869.46 --> 3870.34] And as we wade -[3870.34 --> 3870.82] into this, -[3870.88 --> 3871.76] I want us to be -[3871.76 --> 3873.02] very intentional -[3873.02 --> 3874.10] and bring our best -[3874.10 --> 3875.36] thinking to bear -[3875.36 --> 3875.76] on it. -[3875.78 --> 3876.14] And so I'm going -[3876.14 --> 3877.18] to say three things -[3877.18 --> 3878.22] and I'm happy to follow -[3878.22 --> 3879.04] up with any conversation -[3879.04 --> 3879.46] you want. -[3880.46 --> 3881.16] But first, -[3881.46 --> 3881.92] number one, -[3882.28 --> 3883.40] when you hear people -[3883.40 --> 3884.90] say we don't see -[3884.90 --> 3886.44] miracles today, -[3886.60 --> 3887.60] for some of you, -[3887.70 --> 3889.04] that's just not true. -[3890.54 --> 3890.72] Right? -[3890.76 --> 3891.96] You've seen miracles. -[3892.38 --> 3893.36] You've had miraculous -[3893.36 --> 3894.46] healings or prayers -[3894.46 --> 3895.80] answered in ways -[3895.80 --> 3896.28] that are just -[3896.28 --> 3897.24] inexplicable -[3897.24 --> 3898.40] apart from God -[3898.40 --> 3899.40] directly acting -[3899.40 --> 3900.28] and intervening -[3900.28 --> 3900.92] in your life. -[3901.76 --> 3902.72] And all around, -[3902.72 --> 3903.66] global Christianity, -[3903.66 --> 3904.68] there are stories -[3904.68 --> 3906.18] of amazing displays -[3906.18 --> 3907.94] of God's glorifying, -[3908.18 --> 3910.18] self-authenticating power. -[3911.70 --> 3912.78] Now, of course, -[3913.78 --> 3916.88] there are liars -[3916.88 --> 3918.12] and there are cheats -[3918.12 --> 3919.08] and there are so-called -[3919.08 --> 3919.82] faith healers -[3919.82 --> 3920.86] who take advantage -[3920.86 --> 3922.06] of people's desperation. -[3922.56 --> 3923.46] And there are church -[3923.46 --> 3924.50] traditions as well -[3924.50 --> 3925.78] that put an unhealthy -[3925.78 --> 3927.48] emphasis on experiencing -[3927.48 --> 3928.92] things like this -[3928.92 --> 3929.94] such that these things -[3929.94 --> 3931.28] are called miracles -[3931.28 --> 3931.90] that probably -[3931.90 --> 3933.14] really aren't. -[3934.14 --> 3934.26] Right? -[3934.30 --> 3935.66] And as faithful Christians, -[3935.66 --> 3937.70] we can be skeptical -[3937.70 --> 3938.90] and discerning -[3938.90 --> 3940.04] about these sort of things. -[3940.40 --> 3940.78] In fact, -[3940.94 --> 3941.92] the scriptures call us -[3941.92 --> 3943.08] to discern false prophets, -[3943.22 --> 3944.00] to discern the wolves -[3944.00 --> 3944.48] among us, -[3944.50 --> 3946.70] to identify antichrists -[3946.70 --> 3947.88] in 1 John 2. -[3947.88 --> 3950.34] All that being said, -[3950.80 --> 3952.12] I really believe -[3952.12 --> 3953.30] that there are probably -[3953.30 --> 3953.98] more miracles -[3953.98 --> 3954.94] happening in the world -[3954.94 --> 3956.62] today than you realize, -[3957.72 --> 3959.96] especially from the comfort -[3959.96 --> 3961.12] of our 21st century -[3961.12 --> 3963.28] Western affluent lives. -[3964.88 --> 3965.46] Second, -[3966.18 --> 3967.10] let me question -[3967.10 --> 3967.76] the presumption -[3967.76 --> 3969.90] that seeing more miracles -[3969.90 --> 3971.56] would lead more people -[3971.56 --> 3972.12] to believe. -[3972.12 --> 3975.22] I remember one time -[3975.22 --> 3976.38] I was talking -[3976.38 --> 3976.98] with someone -[3976.98 --> 3978.10] who had just come back -[3978.10 --> 3979.22] from a trip -[3979.22 --> 3980.04] at a camp -[3980.04 --> 3981.70] where they were sort of -[3981.70 --> 3983.92] like the camp volunteers, -[3984.16 --> 3984.86] the camp parents -[3984.86 --> 3986.26] who would help serve -[3986.26 --> 3987.26] all the kids -[3987.26 --> 3987.72] who were there -[3987.72 --> 3988.22] for the week. -[3989.00 --> 3989.80] And there was a girl -[3989.80 --> 3991.28] who had had an accident -[3991.28 --> 3992.54] and was in a wheelchair. -[3993.46 --> 3994.72] And at a chapel service, -[3994.96 --> 3996.08] they prayed for her -[3996.08 --> 3997.28] and for her pain -[3997.28 --> 3998.86] and they prayed for healing, -[3999.46 --> 4000.56] but she wasn't healed. -[4000.56 --> 4002.66] And that person -[4002.66 --> 4003.50] came to me later -[4003.50 --> 4004.12] and said, -[4004.58 --> 4005.40] I don't get it. -[4006.24 --> 4006.98] It's like God -[4006.98 --> 4007.80] didn't want -[4007.80 --> 4009.16] these people to believe. -[4009.52 --> 4010.76] If God had healed her -[4010.76 --> 4011.30] in that moment, -[4011.40 --> 4012.34] all of those people there -[4012.34 --> 4012.98] would have believed. -[4013.24 --> 4013.84] They would have been left -[4013.84 --> 4015.00] without any excuse. -[4017.10 --> 4017.94] But here's the thing. -[4019.58 --> 4020.62] That way of thinking -[4020.62 --> 4022.06] and that reality -[4022.06 --> 4023.56] wasn't true in Jesus' day. -[4024.98 --> 4026.32] So why would it be true in ours? -[4027.26 --> 4029.60] Jesus did countless miracles, -[4029.60 --> 4030.76] more than are recorded -[4030.76 --> 4031.56] in Scripture, -[4031.70 --> 4032.52] John tells us, right? -[4032.70 --> 4034.62] That he did all of these things -[4034.62 --> 4038.42] and so few people believed them. -[4038.86 --> 4040.32] Only the tiniest fraction -[4040.32 --> 4042.54] of people believed. -[4043.30 --> 4044.12] So why do we assume -[4044.12 --> 4044.78] that it would be different -[4044.78 --> 4046.34] in our day and for us? -[4046.38 --> 4046.98] Because honestly, -[4047.40 --> 4048.44] human nature is still the same. -[4049.12 --> 4050.28] I don't think it would be. -[4052.82 --> 4053.78] Third, third, -[4053.98 --> 4054.50] this is three, -[4054.50 --> 4055.86] and most important. -[4056.42 --> 4057.26] The major difference -[4057.26 --> 4058.42] between then and now, -[4058.50 --> 4059.92] and this is especially true -[4059.92 --> 4061.34] in our context, right? -[4061.38 --> 4062.60] In the modern West -[4062.60 --> 4063.52] with a long history -[4063.52 --> 4064.36] of Christian teaching -[4064.36 --> 4065.82] and presence, right? -[4066.58 --> 4067.84] Even if that long history -[4067.84 --> 4068.58] of Christian teaching -[4068.58 --> 4068.98] and presence -[4068.98 --> 4071.78] is largely comprehensively rejected -[4071.78 --> 4072.36] or dismissed -[4072.36 --> 4073.40] by so many people today, -[4073.54 --> 4074.84] the reality for us, -[4074.92 --> 4075.28] of course, -[4075.34 --> 4077.86] is that we have the Bible, -[4078.64 --> 4078.84] right? -[4078.86 --> 4079.70] More prolifically -[4079.70 --> 4080.62] than ever before -[4080.62 --> 4081.90] because even if you don't have -[4081.90 --> 4083.04] a Bible in your hands right now, -[4083.04 --> 4083.70] you have your phone -[4083.70 --> 4084.38] in your pocket -[4084.38 --> 4085.88] and you can get it. -[4086.22 --> 4086.48] In fact, -[4086.52 --> 4087.86] you can get like 60 translations -[4087.86 --> 4090.42] like that, right? -[4090.44 --> 4092.84] We have the very words of God -[4092.84 --> 4094.42] written by the Holy Spirit, -[4094.56 --> 4096.06] true and infallible, -[4096.16 --> 4096.98] the only source -[4096.98 --> 4098.06] and the highest authority -[4098.06 --> 4099.32] for life and faith, right? -[4099.54 --> 4100.86] The Apostle Paul -[4100.86 --> 4101.60] makes this clear -[4101.60 --> 4102.32] in Romans 10 -[4102.32 --> 4103.16] and in Ephesians 6 -[4103.16 --> 4104.12] and 2 Timothy 3 -[4104.12 --> 4106.06] and Peter in 2 Peter, right? -[4106.08 --> 4107.32] And Jesus confirms it -[4107.32 --> 4108.20] in our text -[4108.20 --> 4109.60] as it's his word -[4109.60 --> 4111.48] that forgives and heals, right? -[4111.48 --> 4114.28] The priority is on the word. -[4116.54 --> 4117.62] Put it simply, -[4118.24 --> 4119.64] we don't need miracles -[4119.64 --> 4120.58] in the same way -[4120.58 --> 4121.30] to authenticate -[4121.30 --> 4122.14] the witness of Jesus -[4122.14 --> 4124.08] because we have the word -[4124.08 --> 4125.96] which authenticates -[4125.96 --> 4127.94] the witness of Jesus. -[4129.50 --> 4130.78] The purpose of Jesus' miracles -[4130.78 --> 4131.74] is to confirm -[4131.74 --> 4132.48] the testimony -[4132.48 --> 4133.82] about Jesus himself. -[4134.00 --> 4134.74] What is the purpose -[4134.74 --> 4135.30] of the Bible, -[4135.40 --> 4136.36] the word, right? -[4136.42 --> 4137.86] Jesus answers this for us -[4137.86 --> 4138.58] in John 5. -[4138.94 --> 4140.22] Jesus says to the Pharisees -[4140.22 --> 4140.64] and teachers, -[4141.04 --> 4142.08] you study the scriptures -[4142.08 --> 4143.52] diligently because you think -[4143.52 --> 4144.20] that in them -[4144.20 --> 4145.60] you have eternal life. -[4146.06 --> 4147.56] These are the very scriptures -[4147.56 --> 4150.86] that testify about me. -[4151.80 --> 4154.04] Yet you refuse to come to me -[4154.04 --> 4156.14] and have life. -[4156.72 --> 4157.94] But Jesus says this word -[4157.94 --> 4160.02] is the testimony about him. -[4160.16 --> 4162.08] Luke writes that all the law -[4162.08 --> 4162.64] and the prophets -[4162.64 --> 4163.54] are about Jesus. -[4163.80 --> 4165.14] Jesus says that heaven -[4165.14 --> 4166.28] and earth will pass away -[4166.28 --> 4167.34] but my words -[4167.34 --> 4169.12] will never pass away. -[4169.42 --> 4171.02] John 14 is all about -[4171.02 --> 4172.58] the authority of Jesus' word -[4172.58 --> 4174.80] as speaking the Father's word, -[4175.04 --> 4175.18] right? -[4175.22 --> 4176.32] The word of the Lord -[4176.32 --> 4178.02] endures forever. -[4178.54 --> 4179.30] The Bible, -[4179.42 --> 4180.08] the whole thing -[4180.08 --> 4181.48] from cover to cover -[4181.48 --> 4183.18] reveals who Jesus is -[4183.18 --> 4184.62] and the Holy Spirit -[4184.62 --> 4186.94] as he works through the word -[4186.94 --> 4188.60] confirms that truth -[4188.60 --> 4189.68] in your heart. -[4189.68 --> 4192.38] What's more, -[4193.14 --> 4194.14] the sacraments, -[4194.96 --> 4195.36] baptism, -[4196.00 --> 4196.68] and Lord's Supper -[4196.68 --> 4198.10] and the regular actions -[4198.10 --> 4198.66] of worship -[4198.66 --> 4200.58] centered around the word -[4200.58 --> 4203.68] confirm who Jesus is. -[4205.36 --> 4206.38] Let me ask you -[4206.38 --> 4207.16] the hard question here. -[4208.30 --> 4209.72] How often do we long -[4209.72 --> 4211.38] for God's word? -[4211.92 --> 4213.54] How deeply do we desire -[4213.54 --> 4214.76] to see Jesus -[4214.76 --> 4216.64] on these pages? -[4216.84 --> 4218.46] Do we long for him here -[4218.46 --> 4219.42] in the Bible? -[4219.52 --> 4220.84] Do we long for him here -[4220.84 --> 4221.84] in worship, -[4222.00 --> 4223.20] here or online, -[4223.60 --> 4225.48] like we long for a miracle? -[4228.68 --> 4231.08] If we don't desire deeply -[4231.08 --> 4232.32] to commune with God -[4232.32 --> 4233.02] in his word -[4233.02 --> 4234.20] and in our worship, -[4234.44 --> 4235.70] how can we suppose -[4235.70 --> 4237.20] to ever see him act -[4237.20 --> 4238.52] in miracles? -[4240.20 --> 4241.36] Do you pray -[4241.36 --> 4242.22] to see Jesus -[4242.22 --> 4243.38] show up in power -[4243.38 --> 4244.36] through the word -[4244.36 --> 4246.10] as often as you pray -[4246.10 --> 4247.04] for healing -[4247.04 --> 4248.16] or for God to help? -[4248.46 --> 4251.84] in this age, -[4251.90 --> 4253.26] in the age of the church, -[4253.54 --> 4254.92] what is clear -[4254.92 --> 4257.38] is that God's primary way -[4257.38 --> 4258.22] of communicating -[4258.22 --> 4259.32] with his people -[4259.32 --> 4261.18] is through the word. -[4262.16 --> 4264.18] The first and normative way -[4264.18 --> 4265.26] God reveals himself -[4265.26 --> 4266.82] is through the Bible. -[4267.68 --> 4268.58] And when we ask -[4268.58 --> 4269.62] for something more, -[4269.80 --> 4270.82] for a miracle, -[4271.12 --> 4272.04] but we are unwilling -[4272.04 --> 4273.16] to approach God -[4273.16 --> 4275.14] and to seek him -[4275.14 --> 4276.60] as he has ordained, -[4276.60 --> 4279.42] we probably shouldn't -[4279.42 --> 4280.26] be surprised -[4280.26 --> 4281.68] when we don't see him -[4281.68 --> 4282.42] show up in power -[4282.42 --> 4283.60] in the way that we want -[4283.60 --> 4285.02] because we are looking -[4285.02 --> 4286.24] or we're starting to look -[4286.24 --> 4287.60] in the wrong places. -[4289.70 --> 4290.44] Here's the thing -[4290.44 --> 4291.56] about Christian faith -[4291.56 --> 4293.14] for us today. -[4293.98 --> 4295.26] It's true for the Israelites. -[4295.70 --> 4296.80] It's true for the apostles. -[4297.48 --> 4298.34] It's true for us. -[4298.34 --> 4300.62] The Christian faith -[4300.62 --> 4301.98] looks back -[4301.98 --> 4302.84] on the promises -[4302.84 --> 4304.40] of God fulfilled -[4304.40 --> 4305.16] in history -[4305.16 --> 4306.48] to fuel -[4306.48 --> 4307.30] a hope -[4307.30 --> 4308.28] from God -[4308.28 --> 4309.84] about a glorious future -[4309.84 --> 4311.30] so that the present -[4311.30 --> 4312.58] can be endured -[4312.58 --> 4313.82] with joy -[4313.82 --> 4314.72] regardless -[4314.72 --> 4315.60] of -[4315.60 --> 4316.46] your -[4316.46 --> 4317.60] circumstances. -[4318.28 --> 4319.64] Let me say that again. -[4320.30 --> 4321.48] The Christian faith -[4321.48 --> 4322.50] looks back -[4322.50 --> 4323.32] on the promises -[4323.32 --> 4324.36] of God fulfilled -[4324.36 --> 4325.00] in history -[4325.00 --> 4325.98] to fuel -[4325.98 --> 4326.48] a hope -[4326.48 --> 4327.38] from God -[4327.38 --> 4328.68] about a glorious future -[4328.68 --> 4329.82] so that the present -[4329.82 --> 4330.76] can be endured -[4330.76 --> 4331.92] with joy -[4331.92 --> 4332.94] regardless -[4332.94 --> 4335.18] of your circumstances. -[4336.40 --> 4337.48] This book, -[4337.60 --> 4338.46] this amazing, -[4338.86 --> 4339.32] powerful, -[4339.56 --> 4340.48] miraculous book -[4340.48 --> 4341.36] tells you -[4341.36 --> 4342.06] the story -[4342.06 --> 4342.78] of promises -[4342.78 --> 4343.42] fulfilled -[4343.42 --> 4344.36] in the past. -[4344.50 --> 4344.98] It tells you -[4344.98 --> 4345.52] the story -[4345.52 --> 4346.44] of a hope -[4346.44 --> 4347.14] to come -[4347.14 --> 4348.08] and it tells you -[4348.08 --> 4349.18] how to endure -[4349.18 --> 4350.32] and persevere -[4350.32 --> 4351.26] right now -[4351.26 --> 4352.32] as a disciple -[4352.32 --> 4353.38] of Jesus. -[4353.38 --> 4355.04] and it does -[4355.04 --> 4355.44] all that -[4355.44 --> 4356.24] by means -[4356.24 --> 4357.26] of giving you -[4357.26 --> 4358.48] Jesus. -[4362.12 --> 4363.38] And so this week -[4363.38 --> 4365.02] and in the weeks -[4365.02 --> 4365.40] to come -[4365.40 --> 4366.46] as you -[4366.46 --> 4367.36] go -[4367.36 --> 4369.08] I want to -[4369.08 --> 4370.82] land -[4370.82 --> 4371.80] this plane -[4371.80 --> 4372.20] really -[4372.20 --> 4373.00] with -[4373.00 --> 4374.24] three -[4374.24 --> 4376.46] summary points -[4376.46 --> 4377.52] of application -[4377.52 --> 4378.18] three -[4378.18 --> 4379.36] ways -[4379.36 --> 4380.24] to focus -[4380.24 --> 4381.12] your life -[4381.12 --> 4381.88] on mission -[4381.88 --> 4382.60] with -[4382.60 --> 4383.54] Jesus. -[4384.54 --> 4385.10] And so one -[4385.10 --> 4386.48] make -[4386.48 --> 4387.38] Jesus' -[4388.06 --> 4388.44] word -[4388.44 --> 4389.54] primary. -[4391.06 --> 4392.34] This is the place -[4392.34 --> 4393.06] where you will -[4393.06 --> 4394.12] find Jesus -[4394.12 --> 4394.64] and so -[4394.64 --> 4395.76] come to his -[4395.76 --> 4396.40] word -[4396.40 --> 4397.26] dig deep -[4397.26 --> 4398.34] in his word -[4398.34 --> 4399.20] if you are ever -[4399.20 --> 4400.18] wondering what it is -[4400.18 --> 4400.86] that you might say -[4400.86 --> 4401.46] to your neighbor -[4401.46 --> 4402.32] or to your kids -[4402.32 --> 4403.16] to your co-worker -[4403.16 --> 4404.20] or to the stranger -[4404.20 --> 4404.78] that you meet -[4404.78 --> 4405.86] about how you can -[4405.86 --> 4406.54] show them the love -[4406.54 --> 4406.88] of Jesus -[4406.88 --> 4407.96] give them the words -[4407.96 --> 4408.60] of Jesus -[4408.60 --> 4410.48] give them the word -[4410.48 --> 4410.94] of God. -[4412.30 --> 4412.56] And then -[4412.56 --> 4413.12] two -[4413.12 --> 4414.48] connect the power -[4414.48 --> 4415.00] of Jesus' -[4415.26 --> 4415.62] love -[4415.62 --> 4416.56] and his word -[4416.56 --> 4418.30] to all of your life -[4418.30 --> 4419.18] to prove -[4419.18 --> 4419.94] that that word -[4419.94 --> 4420.48] is true -[4420.48 --> 4421.08] for you -[4421.08 --> 4422.26] to prove -[4422.26 --> 4423.62] that that message -[4423.62 --> 4424.84] is true -[4424.84 --> 4425.64] right -[4425.64 --> 4426.60] authenticate -[4426.60 --> 4427.98] your message -[4427.98 --> 4429.26] and your gospel -[4429.26 --> 4429.88] presentation -[4429.88 --> 4430.84] by how you -[4430.84 --> 4431.30] live -[4431.30 --> 4431.98] your -[4431.98 --> 4433.02] life. -[4434.52 --> 4435.32] And then -[4435.32 --> 4435.62] three -[4435.62 --> 4437.66] never stop -[4437.66 --> 4438.48] rejoicing -[4438.48 --> 4439.46] in Jesus' -[4439.70 --> 4440.08] victory -[4440.08 --> 4441.36] over sin -[4441.36 --> 4444.40] and always -[4444.40 --> 4445.34] always -[4445.34 --> 4446.70] keep on -[4446.70 --> 4447.30] hoping -[4447.30 --> 4448.40] in his -[4448.40 --> 4448.94] victory -[4448.94 --> 4449.72] over -[4449.72 --> 4450.62] suffering. -[4452.84 --> 4453.78] Some of you -[4453.78 --> 4454.44] know the story -[4454.44 --> 4455.60] of Joni -[4455.60 --> 4456.38] Erickson Tata -[4456.38 --> 4458.64] when she was -[4458.64 --> 4459.98] 18 years old -[4459.98 --> 4460.52] she suffered -[4460.52 --> 4461.16] an accident -[4461.16 --> 4462.38] by diving -[4462.38 --> 4463.00] into -[4463.00 --> 4463.90] too shallow -[4463.90 --> 4464.64] of water -[4464.64 --> 4465.62] and she became -[4465.62 --> 4466.02] paralyzed -[4466.02 --> 4466.54] from the -[4466.54 --> 4466.94] neck down -[4466.94 --> 4467.34] and has -[4467.34 --> 4467.88] lived life -[4467.88 --> 4468.54] since then -[4468.54 --> 4469.32] as a -[4469.32 --> 4470.08] quadriplegic. -[4471.00 --> 4471.82] She tells -[4471.82 --> 4473.48] this story -[4473.48 --> 4474.22] of hoping -[4474.22 --> 4475.00] in Jesus' -[4475.22 --> 4475.58] victory -[4475.58 --> 4476.42] over suffering -[4476.42 --> 4476.72] and I'm -[4476.72 --> 4477.06] going to -[4477.06 --> 4477.52] end -[4477.52 --> 4478.44] with her -[4478.44 --> 4478.76] story. -[4480.12 --> 4480.68] Joni says -[4480.68 --> 4481.94] I hope -[4481.94 --> 4482.58] in some -[4482.58 --> 4482.86] way -[4482.86 --> 4483.32] I can -[4483.32 --> 4483.66] take -[4483.66 --> 4483.90] my -[4483.90 --> 4484.28] wheelchair -[4484.28 --> 4484.70] to heaven -[4484.70 --> 4486.12] and with -[4486.12 --> 4486.58] my new -[4486.58 --> 4487.30] glorified -[4487.30 --> 4487.64] body -[4487.64 --> 4488.08] I will -[4488.08 --> 4488.66] stand up -[4488.66 --> 4488.90] on -[4488.90 --> 4489.42] resurrected -[4489.42 --> 4489.90] legs -[4489.90 --> 4490.50] and I -[4490.50 --> 4490.82] will be -[4490.82 --> 4491.30] next to -[4491.30 --> 4491.64] the Lord -[4491.64 --> 4491.96] Jesus -[4491.96 --> 4492.60] and I -[4492.60 --> 4493.18] will feel -[4493.18 --> 4493.84] those nail -[4493.84 --> 4494.18] prints -[4494.18 --> 4494.58] in his -[4494.58 --> 4494.92] hands -[4494.92 --> 4495.54] and I -[4495.54 --> 4496.06] will say -[4496.06 --> 4496.80] thank you -[4496.80 --> 4497.52] Jesus -[4497.52 --> 4498.74] and he -[4498.74 --> 4499.22] will know -[4499.22 --> 4499.60] that I -[4499.60 --> 4500.22] mean it -[4500.22 --> 4500.90] because he -[4500.90 --> 4501.64] will recognize -[4501.64 --> 4503.80] me from -[4503.80 --> 4504.24] the inner -[4504.24 --> 4504.82] sanctum -[4504.82 --> 4505.50] of sharing -[4505.50 --> 4506.10] in the -[4506.10 --> 4506.48] fellowship -[4506.48 --> 4507.04] of his -[4507.04 --> 4507.62] sufferings. -[4508.00 --> 4508.30] He will -[4508.30 --> 4508.82] see that -[4508.82 --> 4509.48] I was -[4509.48 --> 4509.94] one who -[4509.94 --> 4510.52] identified -[4510.52 --> 4511.54] with him -[4511.54 --> 4512.00] in the -[4512.00 --> 4512.34] sharing -[4512.34 --> 4512.82] of his -[4512.82 --> 4513.30] sufferings -[4513.30 --> 4513.94] so my -[4513.94 --> 4514.42] gratitude -[4514.42 --> 4515.06] will not -[4515.06 --> 4515.70] be hollow -[4515.70 --> 4517.54] and then -[4517.54 --> 4517.96] I will -[4517.96 --> 4518.34] say -[4518.34 --> 4519.26] Lord Jesus -[4519.26 --> 4519.80] do you -[4519.80 --> 4520.32] see that -[4520.32 --> 4520.72] wheelchair -[4520.72 --> 4521.40] over there? -[4522.74 --> 4523.30] Well -[4523.30 --> 4524.32] you were -[4524.32 --> 4524.64] right -[4524.64 --> 4526.12] when you -[4526.12 --> 4526.66] put me -[4526.66 --> 4527.06] in it -[4527.06 --> 4527.82] it was -[4527.82 --> 4528.08] a lot -[4528.08 --> 4528.48] of trouble -[4528.48 --> 4530.22] but the -[4530.22 --> 4530.74] weaker I -[4530.74 --> 4531.32] was in -[4531.32 --> 4532.00] that thing -[4532.00 --> 4532.56] the harder -[4532.56 --> 4533.08] I leaned -[4533.08 --> 4533.52] on you -[4533.52 --> 4534.54] and the -[4534.54 --> 4535.08] harder I -[4535.08 --> 4535.56] leaned on -[4535.56 --> 4536.00] you the -[4536.00 --> 4536.68] stronger I -[4536.68 --> 4537.12] discovered -[4537.12 --> 4537.96] you to -[4537.96 --> 4538.24] be. -[4538.24 --> 4539.74] I do -[4539.74 --> 4539.98] not -[4539.98 --> 4540.40] think I -[4540.40 --> 4540.52] would -[4540.52 --> 4540.72] ever -[4540.72 --> 4540.92] have -[4540.92 --> 4541.16] known -[4541.16 --> 4541.36] the -[4541.36 --> 4541.76] glory -[4541.76 --> 4542.22] of your -[4542.22 --> 4542.64] grace -[4542.64 --> 4543.20] were it -[4543.20 --> 4543.62] not for -[4543.62 --> 4543.82] the -[4543.82 --> 4544.18] weakness -[4544.18 --> 4544.90] of that -[4544.90 --> 4545.34] wheelchair. -[4546.18 --> 4546.80] So thank -[4546.80 --> 4547.32] you Lord -[4547.32 --> 4547.98] Jesus for -[4547.98 --> 4548.30] that. -[4549.44 --> 4549.98] And now -[4549.98 --> 4550.68] if you -[4550.68 --> 4551.48] like you -[4551.48 --> 4552.02] can send -[4552.02 --> 4552.52] that thing -[4552.52 --> 4552.92] off to -[4552.92 --> 4553.16] hell. -[4556.44 --> 4557.06] Jesus' -[4557.28 --> 4557.68] victory -[4557.68 --> 4559.60] over sin -[4559.60 --> 4560.76] is final -[4560.76 --> 4562.00] and real. -[4563.42 --> 4564.22] His victory -[4564.22 --> 4565.04] over suffering -[4565.04 --> 4565.68] is coming -[4565.68 --> 4568.34] but it's -[4568.34 --> 4568.72] already -[4568.72 --> 4569.24] real. -[4570.54 --> 4570.84] Amen? -[4572.02 --> 4572.80] Amen. -[4573.00 --> 4573.34] Let's pray -[4573.34 --> 4573.58] today. -[4579.74 --> 4580.94] Lord Jesus -[4580.94 --> 4584.04] go way -[4584.04 --> 4584.84] down deep -[4584.84 --> 4585.80] into our -[4585.80 --> 4586.34] hearts -[4586.34 --> 4587.48] and lives. -[4588.84 --> 4589.78] As we -[4589.78 --> 4590.40] enter into -[4590.40 --> 4591.26] this collision -[4591.26 --> 4592.12] of need -[4592.12 --> 4593.94] we pray -[4593.94 --> 4594.18] that you -[4594.18 --> 4594.74] would reveal -[4594.74 --> 4595.50] for us -[4595.50 --> 4596.24] the truth -[4596.24 --> 4597.22] of our -[4597.22 --> 4598.14] need to -[4598.14 --> 4599.12] be reconciled -[4599.12 --> 4599.56] to you. -[4599.76 --> 4600.06] Reveal -[4600.06 --> 4600.70] for us -[4600.70 --> 4601.20] your -[4601.20 --> 4601.80] utter -[4601.80 --> 4602.78] and absolute -[4602.78 --> 4603.46] victory -[4603.46 --> 4604.24] over sin -[4604.24 --> 4604.80] and death -[4604.80 --> 4605.46] and grant -[4605.46 --> 4606.18] us the -[4606.18 --> 4607.04] hope of -[4607.04 --> 4607.68] your victory -[4607.68 --> 4608.70] over suffering. -[4610.80 --> 4611.18] May we -[4611.18 --> 4612.04] go from -[4612.04 --> 4612.78] this place -[4612.78 --> 4613.58] nourished by -[4613.58 --> 4614.20] your word -[4614.20 --> 4615.30] and at -[4615.30 --> 4615.82] your table -[4615.82 --> 4617.04] as a -[4617.04 --> 4617.38] people -[4617.38 --> 4618.32] transformed -[4618.32 --> 4619.56] to live -[4619.56 --> 4620.54] for you. -[4621.26 --> 4621.86] Transformed -[4621.86 --> 4622.46] to live -[4622.46 --> 4623.06] for the -[4623.06 --> 4623.44] glory -[4623.44 --> 4624.14] of your -[4624.14 --> 4624.96] name. -[4625.16 --> 4625.74] Transformed -[4625.74 --> 4626.42] with our -[4626.42 --> 4626.76] hearts -[4626.76 --> 4627.66] affections -[4627.66 --> 4628.26] stirred -[4628.26 --> 4628.74] that we -[4628.74 --> 4629.02] might -[4629.02 --> 4629.60] proclaim -[4629.60 --> 4630.52] you -[4630.52 --> 4630.94] Lord -[4630.94 --> 4631.36] Jesus -[4631.36 --> 4632.68] for the -[4632.68 --> 4632.96] world. -[4634.20 --> 4634.44] In -[4634.44 --> 4634.86] Christ -[4634.86 --> 4635.34] Jesus -[4635.34 --> 4635.96] we pray -[4635.96 --> 4637.38] Amen. -[4638.30 --> 4638.94] Amen. -[4644.10 --> 4644.96] As we -[4644.96 --> 4645.22] prayed -[4645.22 --> 4645.82] we are -[4645.82 --> 4646.60] coming -[4646.60 --> 4647.90] to the -[4647.90 --> 4648.32] table. -[4649.24 --> 4649.68] Now this -[4649.68 --> 4650.70] table -[4650.70 --> 4651.94] is for -[4651.94 --> 4652.50] us -[4652.50 --> 4653.32] what we -[4653.32 --> 4653.70] call a -[4653.70 --> 4654.30] means of -[4654.30 --> 4654.72] grace -[4654.72 --> 4655.50] and what -[4655.50 --> 4656.06] that means -[4656.06 --> 4656.68] is that -[4656.68 --> 4657.48] the Jesus -[4657.48 --> 4657.80] that we -[4657.80 --> 4658.24] heard about -[4658.24 --> 4658.50] in the -[4658.50 --> 4658.76] word -[4658.76 --> 4660.36] is now -[4660.36 --> 4660.58] here -[4660.58 --> 4660.94] offered -[4660.94 --> 4661.88] at the -[4661.88 --> 4662.20] table. -[4662.98 --> 4663.38] The grace -[4663.38 --> 4663.70] that we -[4663.70 --> 4664.08] have heard -[4664.08 --> 4664.36] in the -[4664.36 --> 4664.74] gospel -[4664.74 --> 4665.62] is now -[4665.62 --> 4665.92] here -[4665.92 --> 4666.46] made -[4666.46 --> 4667.46] tangible -[4667.46 --> 4668.12] that you -[4668.12 --> 4668.74] can taste -[4668.74 --> 4669.96] and see -[4669.96 --> 4671.00] the grace -[4671.00 --> 4671.74] of our -[4671.74 --> 4672.40] good -[4672.40 --> 4673.04] God. -[4673.16 --> 4673.42] And so -[4673.42 --> 4673.84] the Lord -[4673.84 --> 4674.42] invites -[4674.42 --> 4675.08] all those -[4675.08 --> 4676.16] who believe -[4676.16 --> 4676.72] in him -[4676.72 --> 4677.54] to come -[4677.54 --> 4677.96] to this -[4677.96 --> 4678.32] table -[4678.32 --> 4678.62] with -[4678.62 --> 4679.24] gladness. -[4679.34 --> 4679.68] The Lord -[4679.68 --> 4680.14] invites -[4680.14 --> 4680.90] all of -[4680.90 --> 4681.24] us who -[4681.24 --> 4681.44] have -[4681.44 --> 4682.20] proclaimed -[4682.20 --> 4682.52] that -[4682.52 --> 4682.88] truth -[4682.88 --> 4683.54] in life -[4683.54 --> 4684.08] and in -[4684.08 --> 4684.30] deed -[4684.30 --> 4684.72] together -[4684.72 --> 4685.64] who rely -[4685.64 --> 4686.64] on Jesus -[4686.64 --> 4687.24] for our -[4687.24 --> 4687.62] salvation -[4687.62 --> 4688.18] to come -[4688.18 --> 4688.76] to this -[4688.76 --> 4689.10] table -[4689.10 --> 4689.70] to be -[4689.70 --> 4690.04] met -[4690.04 --> 4690.96] by -[4690.96 --> 4692.00] him. -[4693.76 --> 4694.44] At -[4694.44 --> 4694.62] his -[4694.62 --> 4695.06] last -[4695.06 --> 4695.66] supper -[4695.66 --> 4696.90] our -[4696.90 --> 4697.14] Lord -[4697.14 --> 4697.48] Jesus -[4697.48 --> 4699.24] took -[4699.24 --> 4699.56] bread -[4699.56 --> 4700.96] and when -[4700.96 --> 4701.32] he had -[4701.32 --> 4701.56] given -[4701.56 --> 4702.20] thanks -[4702.20 --> 4704.42] he broke -[4704.42 --> 4704.66] it -[4704.66 --> 4705.74] and said -[4705.74 --> 4706.40] this -[4706.40 --> 4706.92] is -[4706.92 --> 4707.28] my -[4707.28 --> 4707.70] body -[4707.70 --> 4708.80] which -[4708.80 --> 4709.02] is -[4709.02 --> 4709.20] for -[4709.20 --> 4709.48] you -[4709.48 --> 4710.76] do -[4710.76 --> 4711.22] this -[4711.22 --> 4712.08] in -[4712.08 --> 4712.50] remembrance -[4712.50 --> 4713.52] of -[4713.52 --> 4713.76] me -[4713.76 --> 4715.74] and in -[4715.74 --> 4716.16] the same -[4716.16 --> 4716.68] way -[4716.68 --> 4717.12] he -[4717.12 --> 4717.76] took -[4717.76 --> 4717.94] the -[4717.94 --> 4718.26] cup -[4718.26 --> 4719.12] after -[4719.12 --> 4719.58] supper -[4719.58 --> 4722.12] he -[4722.12 --> 4722.28] said -[4722.28 --> 4722.52] this -[4722.52 --> 4722.88] cup -[4722.88 --> 4723.36] is -[4723.36 --> 4723.52] the -[4723.52 --> 4723.72] new -[4723.72 --> 4724.06] covenant -[4724.06 --> 4724.84] in -[4724.84 --> 4725.04] my -[4725.04 --> 4725.44] blood -[4725.44 --> 4726.98] do -[4726.98 --> 4727.46] this -[4727.46 --> 4728.30] in -[4728.30 --> 4728.74] remembrance -[4728.74 --> 4729.58] of -[4729.58 --> 4729.88] me -[4729.88 --> 4730.92] for -[4730.92 --> 4731.24] whenever -[4731.24 --> 4731.52] we -[4731.52 --> 4731.80] eat -[4731.80 --> 4732.14] this -[4732.14 --> 4732.48] bread -[4732.48 --> 4732.82] and -[4732.82 --> 4733.28] drink -[4733.28 --> 4733.72] this -[4733.72 --> 4734.14] cup -[4734.14 --> 4734.78] we -[4734.78 --> 4735.30] proclaim -[4735.30 --> 4735.76] the -[4735.76 --> 4736.24] Lord's -[4736.24 --> 4736.76] death -[4736.76 --> 4737.20] and -[4737.20 --> 4737.68] resurrection -[4737.68 --> 4738.50] until -[4738.50 --> 4738.76] he -[4738.76 --> 4739.06] comes -[4739.06 --> 4739.40] again -[4739.40 --> 4740.68] therefore -[4740.68 --> 4741.12] we -[4741.12 --> 4741.70] proclaim -[4741.70 --> 4742.52] our -[4742.52 --> 4743.18] faith -[4743.18 --> 4743.52] as -[4743.52 --> 4744.08] signed -[4744.08 --> 4744.66] and -[4744.66 --> 4745.30] sealed -[4745.30 --> 4745.98] in -[4745.98 --> 4746.58] this -[4746.58 --> 4747.62] sacrament -[4747.62 --> 4750.06] Christ -[4750.06 --> 4750.68] has died -[4750.68 --> 4751.70] Christ -[4751.70 --> 4752.26] is risen -[4752.26 --> 4753.32] Christ -[4753.32 --> 4753.72] will -[4753.72 --> 4753.98] come -[4753.98 --> 4754.36] again -[4754.36 --> 4756.34] church -[4756.34 --> 4756.68] family -[4756.68 --> 4757.88] the -[4757.88 --> 4758.12] Lord -[4758.12 --> 4758.36] has -[4758.36 --> 4758.74] prepared -[4758.74 --> 4759.00] this -[4759.00 --> 4759.26] table -[4759.26 --> 4759.48] for -[4759.48 --> 4759.76] all -[4759.76 --> 4760.00] who -[4760.00 --> 4760.58] love -[4760.58 --> 4760.82] him -[4760.82 --> 4761.02] and -[4761.02 --> 4761.14] who -[4761.14 --> 4761.46] trust -[4761.46 --> 4761.62] in -[4761.62 --> 4761.84] him -[4761.84 --> 4762.26] alone -[4762.26 --> 4762.50] for -[4762.50 --> 4762.70] their -[4762.70 --> 4763.20] salvation -[4763.20 --> 4764.08] if -[4764.08 --> 4764.22] you -[4764.22 --> 4764.38] are -[4764.38 --> 4764.68] truly -[4764.68 --> 4765.14] sorry -[4765.14 --> 4765.42] for -[4765.42 --> 4765.66] your -[4765.66 --> 4765.94] sins -[4765.94 --> 4766.12] if -[4766.12 --> 4766.22] you -[4766.22 --> 4766.60] sincerely -[4766.60 --> 4767.10] believe -[4767.10 --> 4767.26] in -[4767.26 --> 4767.38] the -[4767.38 --> 4767.52] Lord -[4767.52 --> 4767.80] Jesus -[4767.80 --> 4768.14] as -[4768.14 --> 4768.28] your -[4768.28 --> 4768.56] Savior -[4768.56 --> 4768.98] and -[4768.98 --> 4769.38] desire -[4769.38 --> 4769.64] to -[4769.64 --> 4769.90] live -[4769.90 --> 4770.10] in -[4770.10 --> 4770.48] obedience -[4770.48 --> 4770.80] to -[4770.80 --> 4771.04] him -[4771.04 --> 4771.52] whether -[4771.52 --> 4771.76] you -[4771.76 --> 4771.96] are -[4771.96 --> 4772.30] here -[4772.30 --> 4772.56] in -[4772.56 --> 4772.86] this -[4772.86 --> 4773.42] sanctuary -[4773.42 --> 4773.86] or -[4773.86 --> 4774.08] at -[4774.08 --> 4774.40] home -[4774.40 --> 4774.80] with -[4774.80 --> 4774.94] your -[4774.94 --> 4775.34] families -[4775.34 --> 4775.64] you -[4775.64 --> 4775.84] are -[4775.84 --> 4776.14] now -[4776.14 --> 4776.60] invited -[4776.60 --> 4776.84] to -[4776.84 --> 4777.18] come -[4777.18 --> 4777.66] with -[4777.66 --> 4778.42] gladness -[4778.42 --> 4778.86] to -[4778.86 --> 4779.02] the -[4779.02 --> 4779.46] table -[4779.46 --> 4780.20] of -[4780.20 --> 4780.36] our -[4780.36 --> 4780.66] Lord -[4780.66 --> 4781.68] the -[4781.68 --> 4781.90] gifts -[4781.90 --> 4782.10] of -[4782.10 --> 4782.50] God -[4782.50 --> 4783.34] for -[4783.34 --> 4783.46] the -[4783.46 --> 4783.82] people -[4783.82 --> 4784.66] of -[4784.66 --> 4785.02] God -[4809.46 --> 4811.72] hard -[4811.72 --> 4812.32] for -[4812.32 --> 4812.80] could -[4812.80 --> 4813.68] him -[4813.68 --> 4815.82] Again -[4815.82 --> 4832.88] again -[4832.88 --> 4834.30] but -[4834.30 --> 4835.16] you -[4835.16 --> 4836.16] have -[4836.16 --> 4837.02] could -[4837.02 --> 4867.00] Thank you. -[4867.02 --> 4897.00] Thank you. -[4897.02 --> 4927.00] Thank you. -[4927.02 --> 4957.00] Thank you. -[4957.02 --> 4987.00] Thank you. -[4987.02 --> 4997.70] Thank you. -[5017.02 --> 5047.00] Thank you. -[5047.02 --> 5049.02] Thank you. -[5051.70 --> 5054.50] The body of Christ given for you. -[5054.94 --> 5062.50] Take, eat, remember and believe that the body of our Lord Jesus Christ was given for the complete forgiveness of all our sins. -[5077.02 --> 5107.00] Thank you. -[5107.00 --> 5112.78] We will conclude our service of the supper with a prayer together and we'll follow that with song. -[5113.98 --> 5115.34] Let's stand and pray. -[5115.34 --> 5116.34] Amen. -[5145.34 --> 5147.34] Amen. -[5147.34 --> 5151.34] Amen. -[5151.34 --> 5152.34] Amen. -[5152.34 --> 5154.74] Amen. -[5154.74 --> 5156.72] Amen. -[5156.72 --> 5158.72] Amen. -[5186.72 --> 5188.72] Amen. -[5188.72 --> 5193.72] Amen. -[5193.72 --> 5195.72] Amen. -[5195.72 --> 5200.72] Amen. -[5200.72 --> 5201.72] Amen. -[5201.72 --> 5203.72] Amen. -[5203.72 --> 5204.72] Amen. -[5231.72 --> 5233.72] Amen. -[5261.72 --> 5263.72] God. -[5263.72 --> 5266.06] Amen. -[5266.06 --> 5276.66] Amen. -[5291.72 --> 5305.84] I fear no foe with thee at hand to bless -[5305.84 --> 5316.28] Iils have no weight and tears no bitterness -[5316.28 --> 5329.36] Where is death's sting? Where great thy victory? -[5332.42 --> 5344.24] I triumph still if thou abide with me -[5344.24 --> 5357.52] Hold out thy cross deep for my closing eyes -[5357.52 --> 5368.24] Shine through the gloom and point me to the sky -[5368.24 --> 5380.24] As morning grace and earth's pain shadows flee -[5380.24 --> 5392.24] In life, in death, O Lord, abide in thee -[5392.24 --> 5407.24] As you go into this week, know that God himself goes with you -[5407.24 --> 5411.88] And so go in the power of his name with his blessing -[5411.88 --> 5415.92] May God go before you to lead you -[5415.92 --> 5419.20] May God go behind you to guard you -[5419.20 --> 5422.64] And may God go beneath you to support you -[5422.64 --> 5425.68] May God go beside you to befriend you -[5425.68 --> 5428.24] Do not be afraid -[5428.24 --> 5430.90] Let the blessing of God come upon you today -[5430.90 --> 5432.64] Do not be afraid -[5432.64 --> 5438.32] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord -[5438.32 --> 5440.04] Amen -[5440.04 --> 5452.04] Sing a song of celebration and die -[5452.04 --> 5465.04] Sing a song of celebration and die -[5465.04 --> 5471.04] A shout of praise for bright room will come -[5471.04 --> 5476.04] A glorious song of glory as far -[5476.04 --> 5484.04] And go with a look on his face -[5484.04 --> 5492.04] We'll go to a much better face -[5492.04 --> 5498.04] Dance with all your might -[5498.04 --> 5502.04] Lift up your hands and clap for joy -[5502.04 --> 5505.04] The times drawing near -[5505.04 --> 5511.04] When he will appear -[5511.04 --> 5520.04] And though we'll stand by his side -[5520.04 --> 5527.04] A song of your spotless pride -[5527.04 --> 5534.04] We will dance on streets that are glorious -[5534.04 --> 5538.04] Glorious pride and the great Son of Man -[5538.04 --> 5542.04] From every time and tribe and nation -[5542.04 --> 5544.04] We'll do -[5544.04 --> 5549.04] In the song of the night -[5549.04 --> 5556.04] Sing aloud for the time of rejoicing his name -[5556.04 --> 5560.04] Sing aloud for the time of rejoicing his name -[5560.04 --> 5567.04] The risen King our groom is soon to obey -[5567.04 --> 5569.04] The risen King our groom is soon to obey -[5569.04 --> 5575.04] The wedding feast to come is now near our past -[5575.04 --> 5578.04] The wedding feast to come is now near our past -[5578.04 --> 5582.04] Lift up your voice proclaim the coming past -[5582.04 --> 5586.04] With happy our voice proclaim the Lord -[5586.04 --> 5591.04] We will dance on streets that are calling -[5591.04 --> 5595.04] The glorious pride and the great Son of Man -[5595.04 --> 5599.04] And every tongue and tribe and nation -[5599.04 --> 5604.04] We'll join in the song of the -[5604.04 --> 5606.04] We will dance on the -[5606.04 --> 5608.04] We will dance on the streets that are calling -[5608.04 --> 5613.04] The glorious pride and the great Son of Man -[5613.04 --> 5617.04] And every tongue and tribe and nation -[5617.04 --> 5623.04] We'll join in the song of the man -[5623.04 --> 5626.94] All the Pulitzer -[5627.04 --> 5631.04] We will dance on the Backup Day -[5633.04 --> 5653.02] aprender những Row -[5653.02 --> 5656.02] Come alive, come alive -[5656.02 --> 5660.94] I'm gonna sing to your dry bones -[5660.94 --> 5665.40] Until you're covered in lies -[5665.40 --> 5672.02] And the valleys bloom like a rosebud in the light -[5672.02 --> 5679.44] Hear the call to attention -[5679.44 --> 5684.40] Feel the change in the air -[5684.40 --> 5687.78] For the ground is dry -[5687.78 --> 5690.68] But the clouds are overhead -[5690.68 --> 5695.64] When I'ma sing it again -[5695.64 --> 5700.38] Come alive, come alive, come alive, dry bones -[5700.38 --> 5705.44] Come alive, come alive, come alive, dry bones -[5705.44 --> 5710.00] The wake of rise, inhale the light -[5710.00 --> 5712.52] Come alive, yeah, come alive -[5712.52 --> 5716.54] While you're waiting on hell diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 18, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 18, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c73826a9fd5b257414430d0ef37a298269e0843c..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 18, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,126 +0,0 @@ -• Worshiping God -• Greatness and reverence -• Creation and the power of God -• Redemption through Jesus Christ -• Salvation and forgiveness -• Faith in Christ for daily life -• Overcoming fear and doubts -• Hope in Jesus as one's only hope -• Upcoming church event schedule -• Pastor's class after worship service -• Father's Day celebration, including prayer for those missing a father or with strained relationships -• Modified worship service format -• Prayer team availability throughout the sanctuary -• Invitation to pray and sing praises, including opportunity to take someone aside and pray together -• Worship and praise of God -• Praise of Jesus' name and glory -• Declaration of God's kingdom coming on earth as it is in heaven -• Expression of joy and mercy through singing a new song -• Acknowledgement of God's greatness and majesty -• Reference to the Lion and the Lamb -• Personal expressions of gratitude, love, and worship for God -• Praise to the King of Kings -• Living in rainbows, filled with wonder and awe -• Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty -• Description of a vision involving Jesus, angels, and creation singing praise -• Jesus' power and living water given to believers -• Confession of sin and prayer for healing -• Call to lay down shame and lift up hands in worship -• Addiction and prayer -• Faithfulness in difficult times (desert, battle) -• God's presence and provision -• Praise and worship in every season -• Overcoming fear and discouragement -• Trusting in God's victory and sovereignty -• Serving and worshiping God -• Sharing a personal story and song of praise -• Repeated phrases of praise and worship, including "Oh, what a Savior" and "Wonderful Jesus" -• References to biblical passages, including Psalm 37 -• Encouragement and reassurance for those who put their trust in the Lord -• Promises of protection, vindication, and reward for those who follow God's ways -• Invitation to come to God for comfort, satisfaction, and salvation -• Declaration of God's love for the world and His sacrifice of His Son -• Scripture reading from John 3:16 -• Introducing NAME (North America Indigenous Ministries) and their mission to make disciples among North American indigenous peoples -• Discussing the importance of equipping and supporting First Nations people for ministry -• Announcing a special offering for NAME's ministry -• Reading from 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 about cheerful giving -• Worship service with music and prayer -• Children in worship time will discuss how there is an enemy of God, Satan or the devil, who tries to separate people from God. -• The topic is connected to Romans 8, where it's said that nothing can separate people from God's love because God has already won. -• A personal update about Ellen White's recovery from a fall and her family asking for prayer and cards. -• Another update on the passing of Trudy DeVries' mother and an upcoming celebration of life and memorial at church. -• A general prayer time where attendees are invited to pray together. -• Praying for those in need of healing and restoration -• Mourning the loss of Femi and thanking God for her life and faith -• Requesting God's presence and comfort during difficult times -• Praying for young people's discernment and professions of faith -• Seeking God's blessing and guidance for school graduates and future endeavors -• The speaker discusses what to do when words fail in prayer, referencing Romans 8 -• The Holy Spirit intercedes for us through wordless groans, which can be expressed as guttural groans, moans for mercy, or long exhales of exasperation -• When we're in a moment where all we have are these groans and moans, it doesn't feel like the Spirit is at work -• The speaker questions how to have confidence when hope doesn't match feelings -• The answer lies in understanding who God is and what He does based on His nature, not contingent upon our belief or feeling His presence -• The Tinkerbell effect is discussed, which states that something exists only because people believe in it -• A play is mentioned where audience participation brings the character back to life through collective belief -• The idea of belief creating a reality is explored in Neil Gaiman's book American Gods -• Attention and time are presented as metrics for measuring belief in this context -• The concept of God's existence being contingent on human belief is discussed, with the speaker arguing that most people believe in a non-contingent God (the God of the Bible) -• The nature of God's being and its relationship to creation -• The difference between the Bible's concept of God and a more Tinkerbell-like understanding -• How feelings about God can determine whether or not people think He is present in their lives -• The idea that some people think God would only intervene if they feel His presence, rather than trusting in His character -• The impact of this misunderstanding on the church and Christianity as a whole -• The growing trend of people professing no religious belief due to having a skewed understanding of God -• Existential crisis and doubts about God's existence -• The dangers of distractions in life pulling attention away from God -• Approaching God like a genie, asking for wishes, and the disappointment that follows when prayers are unanswered -• Modern approaches to God that are fundamentally pagan or neo-pagan, such as seeking answers in the universe or an ultimate reality -• Critique of transactional and consumeristic approaches to Christianity -• Limitations of understanding God's ways and will through human experience -• Definition and explanation of sovereignty as God's royal rule over the world -• Discussion of the benefits of trusting in God's sovereignty, including confidence and hope in times of trial and suffering -• The concept of God's sovereignty and how it relates to faith and knowledge -• The distinction between biblical views on faith and knowledge, and modern dichotomies -• The idea that knowing God works all things for good is not dependent on personal feelings or beliefs -• The comfort of this truth in times of struggle or doubt -• The relationship between faith, knowledge, and the character of God -• The speaker expresses difficulty believing God is present and good despite current circumstances. -• The Bible teaches that God works for the good of those who love Him, even in difficult situations. -• Examples of suffering include persecution, cancer, death, and relationship loss. -• God will work these experiences into something good for His glory and the believer's benefit. -• The death of Jesus demonstrates God's ability to turn evil into ultimate good. -• The concept of God's sovereignty and how it relates to suffering -• Interpreting Romans 8:28, specifically what "for the good" means in relation to God's plan -• Critique of using Job as an example of God working for good in suffering, suggesting it may not be the best frame of reference -• The purpose of God's calling is to be conformed into the image of Jesus -• The good that comes from God is to transform us into the image of his Son -• Our suffering and hardships are meant to help us become like Jesus -• Being a Christian means being transformed into the image of Jesus -• The Bible makes clear that our ultimate goal is to be made like Christ. -• The image of God in humans -• Transformation into Christ's likeness -• Being conformed to God's Son -• Glorification through faith and transformation -• Predestination and calling by God -• Suffering compared to future glory -• Predestination as a divine action by God to take people from death to life -• Predestination requires unconditional love and transformation by God -• Human inability to raise themselves out of spiritual death through their own actions or efforts -• The call of God is necessary for spiritual rebirth and resurrection -• Predestination, calling, and election are interconnected concepts in the context of salvation -• Regeneration is the call of God, which brings new life by turning a heart of stone into a heart of flesh. -• God's call is effective in justification, and His word is powerful and creative. -• The promise of God is that those He justifies will also glorify Him, and He will see them through to the end. -• God's sovereignty is the source of hope and joy for believers. -• Regardless of current circumstances or faith, God's sovereignty remains unchanged. -• Source of hope and joy -• Turning things for good -• Sovereignty of God -• Prayer and action -• Carrying through to glory -• Receiving God's blessing and protection -• Encouragement to not be afraid -• Expression of hope and joy in the sovereign God -• Worship of the son and the Lord -• Repetition of "Amen" throughout the transcript \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 18, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 18, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6e7922301bfcd6a25e213b39d2b3161df4ef23ed..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 18, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2426 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.00] So alive -[7.00 --> 9.00] So alive -[14.00 --> 16.00] So alive -[30.00 --> 35.00] If the stars are made to worship, so alive -[37.00 --> 42.00] If the mountains bow, the reverence, so alive -[45.00 --> 50.00] And if the oceans roar, your greatness, so will I -[52.00 --> 59.00] For if everything exists to lift you high, so alive -[60.00 --> 65.00] And if the wind goes away, send this so alive -[67.00 --> 72.00] If the rocks cry out in silence, so alive -[75.00 --> 80.00] If the sun of all our praises still falls shy -[80.00 --> 85.00] And we'll sing a hundred billion times -[85.00 --> 88.00] A hundred billion times -[88.00 --> 90.00] A hundred billion times -[90.00 --> 92.00] A hundred billion times -[93.00 --> 98.00] Oh my god -[99.00 --> 102.00] Oh my god -[106.00 --> 108.00] God of Salvation -[108.00 --> 110.00] Chased down my heart -[110.00 --> 114.64] down my heart through all of my failure and pride -[114.64 --> 123.28] I'm a hill you created -[123.28 --> 129.60] the light of the world abandoned in darkness to die -[129.60 --> 136.64] and as you speak -[136.64 --> 143.44] a hundred billion failures disappeared -[143.44 --> 151.94] where you lost your life so I could find it here -[151.94 --> 159.02] and if you left the grave behind you so alive -[159.02 --> 165.86] I could see your heart in everything you've done -[165.86 --> 174.50] every part designed in a work of art called love -[174.50 --> 183.14] if you gladly chose surrender so will I -[183.14 --> 188.66] I could see your heart and feel you a different way -[188.66 --> 193.54] every precious one -[193.54 --> 197.30] a child you died to save -[197.30 --> 203.30] if you gave your life to love them so alive -[203.30 --> 211.94] like you would again a hundred billion times -[211.94 --> 226.58] you're the one who never leaves the one behind -[226.58 --> 235.22] what gift of grace is jesus my redeemer there is no more for heaven now to give -[235.22 --> 243.86] what gift of grace is jesus my redeemer there is no more for heaven now to give -[243.86 --> 256.50] what gift of grace is jesus my redeemer there is no more for heaven now to give -[256.50 --> 270.24] what gift of grace is jesus my redeemer there is no more for heaven now to give -[270.24 --> 277.16] To this I hold, my hope is only Jesus. -[277.94 --> 283.00] For my life is wholly bound to His. -[284.66 --> 289.38] Oh, how strange and divine I can see. -[289.72 --> 296.18] All is mine, yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[300.24 --> 301.24] Amen. -[330.24 --> 332.76] His power is displayed. -[333.92 --> 340.40] To this I hold, my shepherd will defend me. -[341.20 --> 346.28] Through the deepest valley He will lead. -[348.06 --> 354.24] Oh, the night has been won, and I shall overcome. -[354.24 --> 359.24] Yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[370.24 --> 376.46] No fate I dread, I know I am forgiven. -[376.46 --> 382.96] The future's sure, the price it has been paid. -[383.94 --> 389.88] For Jesus bled and suffered for my pardon. -[390.80 --> 396.46] And He was raised to overthrow the grave. -[396.46 --> 403.18] To this I hold, my sin has been defeated. -[404.52 --> 409.54] Jesus now and ever is my plea. -[411.36 --> 414.40] Oh, the chains are released. -[414.72 --> 417.86] I can sing, I am free. -[417.86 --> 423.04] And not I, but through Christ in me. -[423.04 --> 439.84] With every breath, I long to follow Jesus. -[440.68 --> 446.32] For He has said that He will bring me home. -[446.32 --> 453.68] And day by day, I know He will renew me. -[453.68 --> 459.70] Until I stand with joy before the throne. -[460.66 --> 466.72] To this I hold, my hope is only Jesus. -[467.92 --> 472.80] Oh, the glory evermore to Him. -[472.80 --> 477.80] When the grace is complete. -[477.80 --> 479.80] When the grace is complete. -[479.80 --> 481.80] When the grace is complete. -[481.80 --> 482.80] Till my lips shall repeat. -[482.80 --> 485.80] Yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[485.80 --> 486.80] When the grace is complete. -[486.80 --> 487.80] Till my lips shall repeat. -[487.80 --> 488.80] Yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[488.80 --> 492.80] To this I hold, my hope is only Jesus. -[492.80 --> 497.80] But through Christ in me. -[497.80 --> 499.80] When the grace is complete. -[499.80 --> 503.80] When the grace is complete. -[503.80 --> 505.80] Till my lips shall repeat. -[505.80 --> 508.80] Yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[508.80 --> 509.80] When the grace is complete. -[509.80 --> 516.80] Till my lips shall repeat. -[516.80 --> 521.80] Yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[521.80 --> 525.80] Yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[525.80 --> 529.80] Yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[529.80 --> 532.92] but through Christ in me. -[534.46 --> 539.50] Yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[559.80 --> 571.20] He's our rescuer. He's our rescuer. -[571.20 --> 575.86] We are free from sin forevermore. -[575.86 --> 581.20] Good morning. Welcome to church. -[581.20 --> 588.98] As people are filing in yet, we're going to begin with a couple of announcements. -[589.80 --> 595.08] This is just a reminder and an encouragement for some of you. -[595.08 --> 601.84] For the women in our church on Tuesday, that's this coming Tuesday at 7 p.m., -[601.84 --> 607.00] there will be a bridal blessing slash wedding shower. -[607.00 --> 612.08] I understand no gifts are necessary for Kristen and for Jane, -[612.08 --> 617.38] two young women in our community who are getting married in a couple of weeks -[617.38 --> 620.54] and a couple months, and so we want to bless them with that. -[620.54 --> 625.22] And that's taking place at 7 o'clock, and that will be here at the church. -[625.22 --> 629.92] So it will take place, whether permitting, in the courtyard or in the foyer as we're able. -[629.92 --> 633.10] And so please, if you have any questions about that, -[633.10 --> 639.06] there's some women around who will answer that and address that for you. -[639.06 --> 645.02] As well, there's pastor's class after worship this morning for an hour, -[645.02 --> 649.22] about 15 or 20 minutes after we conclude our time together. -[649.22 --> 651.50] We will meet in the multi-purpose room. -[651.50 --> 655.46] I encourage you to join us there if you've been participating in that class. -[655.46 --> 658.58] If you have no idea what I'm talking about, you can grab me after the service, -[658.58 --> 661.62] and we'll clarify that as well. -[661.62 --> 667.34] And then the last announcement that I want to make is to say to all of you, -[667.34 --> 669.90] Happy Father's Day. -[669.90 --> 675.26] And we want to celebrate you and remember the fathers in our midst. -[675.26 --> 679.70] We also today want to mourn with you if you are missing a father, -[679.70 --> 686.34] or to enter into the hardship and the struggle if you are a father with a strained relationship, -[686.34 --> 690.38] or a son or daughter with a strained relationship to your father. -[690.38 --> 695.86] We remember the complexities of days like today in our midst as well. -[697.50 --> 702.78] Lastly, we're doing worship just a little bit different this morning. -[703.90 --> 707.98] And so as part of our experience of worship together, -[709.26 --> 713.50] we are going to have a prayer team available in all sorts of different places. -[713.98 --> 719.26] And so I'm going to invite the people that we have talked to about praying to come up to the front here, -[719.26 --> 723.02] so that you can see them, and they will be available throughout. -[723.02 --> 729.10] And then as they come up to the front, Sarah is going to explain how our worship will be a little different this morning. -[730.78 --> 736.54] So you may have noticed that there's seven songs right off the bat, back to back, which is not our normal. -[736.54 --> 741.50] But we will be following the ordinary progression of the elements of our service. -[741.50 --> 747.42] We will be singing through our praise, our confession and assurance. -[747.42 --> 753.58] And while we are doing that, these wonderful people will be around the sanctuary, in the foyer, -[754.94 --> 758.06] and possibly out the side doors if they wander out there. -[759.10 --> 761.50] Available for you to pray with you. -[761.50 --> 769.58] If you have prayers of joy, if you have prayers of praise, prayers of sorrow and pain, anything in between, -[770.06 --> 774.94] please, these wonderful people are available and willing to pray with you. -[775.98 --> 781.74] If you see someone in the service that you want to take aside and pray with you, -[782.70 --> 787.90] or if you see someone that you want to pray over, this is a great opportunity to do that as well. -[787.90 --> 792.70] And so, take this time in prayer, in praise. -[792.70 --> 797.18] It is seven songs, so if you need to sit, if you want to stand, if you need to kneel, -[797.66 --> 803.10] however you want to come to God this morning, do as the Spirit leads you. -[806.94 --> 813.66] As we were preparing for this service, we really wanted to give you opportunity to pray, -[814.22 --> 816.06] and to focus in on our prayer. -[816.06 --> 826.06] Singing is prayer put to song, and so happen and do that while you are up and around with these people, -[826.06 --> 827.10] or in your seats. -[827.50 --> 830.84] I'm going to invite these guys to come together a little bit in the middle. -[830.96 --> 836.06] I'm going to begin by praying over you, and then we will send you to your places. -[837.34 --> 839.54] Let's join our hearts together in prayer. -[839.54 --> 848.58] Heavenly Father, we come to you at the beginning of this day of worship. -[849.54 --> 854.08] And as we focus in on who you are and what you are doing in the world, -[854.42 --> 859.76] we pray for these servants here who will lead and be led in prayer. -[859.76 --> 869.72] Lead them by your Spirit, and help them to pray, Lord, in the utterances and groans of the Spirit -[869.72 --> 872.64] as they connect with people here this morning. -[873.28 --> 878.76] As we sing your praises, as we lift up our prayers, may you be glorified, -[878.76 --> 883.72] and may our hearts be drawn ever closer to you. -[885.08 --> 893.38] We send these now out to the corners of our sanctuary and into the foyer in the power of your Holy Spirit. -[894.58 --> 898.56] Bless our worship this morning, we pray in Jesus' name. -[899.08 --> 901.20] All God's people said, amen. -[901.20 --> 909.86] As these guys are heading out to their various places, you can take note of where they are and who is available for you. -[910.30 --> 916.74] I'm going to invite you also to stand as we receive God's greeting and gather in His presence today. -[922.30 --> 924.68] Receive the greeting of our good God. -[924.68 --> 934.58] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, Son, and our Savior, -[935.10 --> 937.62] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[938.70 --> 939.14] Amen. -[939.92 --> 943.26] I invite you to turn to those around you and welcome them also in worship. -[954.68 --> 955.68] Amen. -[971.76 --> 975.74] O Church of God, is anyone among you in trouble? -[976.34 --> 977.14] Let them pray. -[977.88 --> 978.94] Is anyone happy? -[979.48 --> 981.18] Let them sing songs of praise. -[981.78 --> 983.30] Is anyone among you sick? -[983.30 --> 987.88] let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name -[987.88 --> 992.92] of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well. The Lord will raise -[992.92 --> 997.96] them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. Therefore, confess your sins to each -[997.96 --> 1002.90] other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person -[1002.90 --> 1006.96] is powerful and effective. Lift up your hearts and praise the Lord. -[1013.30 --> 1015.30] Amen. -[1043.30 --> 1051.30] Come and let your glory come and let your glory come. -[1053.30 --> 1061.02] Our Father, who art in heaven, may the rocks cry out your name. -[1062.10 --> 1066.36] Come and let your glory come and let your glory come. -[1066.36 --> 1079.36] I will sing, sing a new song. I will sing, sing a new song. I will sing, sing a new song. -[1079.36 --> 1081.36] I will sing, sing a new song to the Lord. -[1083.36 --> 1090.36] Let your kingdom come and let your glory come. Father, the present is in heaven. -[1090.36 --> 1092.36] In the name of Jesus' name. -[1092.36 --> 1097.36] Let your joy come and let them come. -[1097.36 --> 1111.36] Let me pray. -[1111.36 --> 1113.02] Let me pray. -[1113.02 --> 1118.98] In the name of Jesus, in the name of Jesus we pray -[1118.98 --> 1128.26] And lead us from temptation, deliver us with your hand -[1128.26 --> 1133.80] In the name of Jesus, in the name of Jesus we pray -[1133.80 --> 1147.62] I will sing, sing a new song -[1147.62 --> 1149.62] To the Lord -[1149.62 --> 1154.72] Let your kingdom come, let your will be done -[1154.72 --> 1158.08] On earth as it is in heaven -[1158.08 --> 1162.22] Let the Lord proclaim the mercy of your name -[1162.22 --> 1190.72] For the Lord -[1192.22 --> 1195.36] Glory forever, Amen -[1195.36 --> 1199.42] Let your will be done -[1199.42 --> 1203.00] On earth as it is in heaven -[1203.00 --> 1205.26] Every heart will claim -[1205.26 --> 1207.34] Mercy of your name -[1207.34 --> 1210.94] On earth as it is in heaven -[1210.94 --> 1213.02] Let your kingdom come -[1213.02 --> 1214.98] Let your will be done -[1214.98 --> 1218.36] On earth as it is in heaven -[1218.36 --> 1220.42] Every heart will claim -[1220.42 --> 1222.28] Mercy of your name -[1222.28 --> 1225.96] On earth as it is in heaven -[1250.42 --> 1252.42] Let your will be done -[1252.42 --> 1254.42] Amen -[1254.42 --> 1256.42] Amen -[1256.42 --> 1258.42] Amen -[1258.42 --> 1260.42] Amen -[1260.42 --> 1262.42] Amen -[1262.42 --> 1264.42] Amen -[1264.42 --> 1266.42] Amen -[1266.42 --> 1268.42] Amen -[1268.42 --> 1270.42] Amen -[1270.42 --> 1272.42] Amen -[1272.42 --> 1274.42] Amen -[1274.42 --> 1283.20] It's the splendor of the King -[1283.20 --> 1287.76] Clothed in majesty -[1287.76 --> 1292.06] Let all the earth rejoice -[1292.06 --> 1295.66] Let all the earth rejoice -[1295.66 --> 1301.54] He loves himself in light -[1301.54 --> 1306.70] In darkness tries to hide -[1306.70 --> 1310.02] He trembles at his voice -[1310.02 --> 1313.76] He trembles at his voice -[1313.76 --> 1318.96] How great is our God -[1318.96 --> 1320.56] Sing with me -[1320.56 --> 1324.88] How great is our God -[1324.88 --> 1328.76] In all who see how great -[1328.76 --> 1334.92] How great is our God -[1334.92 --> 1343.70] From age to age he stands -[1343.70 --> 1347.76] And time is in his hand -[1348.32 --> 1350.76] Beginning at the end -[1351.30 --> 1353.76] Beginning at the end -[1353.76 --> 1357.92] With all that we are -[1357.92 --> 1364.76] The Father, Spirit, Son -[1364.76 --> 1367.76] The Lion and the Lamb -[1367.76 --> 1370.76] The Lion and the Lamb -[1370.76 --> 1376.76] How great is our God -[1376.76 --> 1378.92] Sing with me -[1378.92 --> 1382.92] How great is our God -[1382.92 --> 1385.76] In all who see how great -[1385.76 --> 1392.92] How great is our God -[1392.92 --> 1399.12] In our love of James -[1399.12 --> 1402.80] We're happy with him -[1402.80 --> 1403.80] Worth him -[1403.80 --> 1405.74] We're happy with him -[1405.74 --> 1407.14] We're happy with him -[1407.14 --> 1409.10] Hope our Lord -[1409.10 --> 1409.40] We're good -[1409.40 --> 1412.92] How great is our God -[1412.92 --> 1413.96] deliver Jesus -[1413.96 --> 1414.70] Glorier God -[1414.70 --> 1415.20] Our life to live -[1415.20 --> 1417.18] Our â not -[1417.18 --> 1417.92] ỉnh ο integrity -[1417.92 --> 1418.92] But we're human -[1421.02 --> 1422.88] So you serve God -[1422.88 --> 1429.42] Lord, in all I'll pray -[1429.42 --> 1433.04] In my heart we'll sing -[1433.04 --> 1438.72] How great is our God -[1438.72 --> 1446.96] How great is our God -[1446.96 --> 1453.24] Sing with me how great is our God -[1453.24 --> 1457.68] Lord, we'll see how great -[1457.68 --> 1463.16] How great is our God -[1476.96 --> 1506.94] Worthy is the Lamb of the Lord -[1506.94 --> 1513.16] A slave, holy, holy is He -[1513.16 --> 1520.44] Sing a new song -[1520.44 --> 1524.02] To Him who sits on -[1524.02 --> 1528.94] Heaven's mercy seat -[1528.94 --> 1536.92] Worthy is the Lamb of the Lord -[1536.92 --> 1538.92] To Him who was slain -[1538.92 --> 1543.14] Holy, holy is He -[1543.14 --> 1550.58] Sing a new song -[1550.58 --> 1554.36] To Him who sits on -[1554.36 --> 1558.14] Heaven's mercy seat -[1558.14 --> 1567.20] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord -[1567.20 --> 1573.14] God Almighty who was and is and is to come -[1573.14 --> 1580.62] With all creation I sing -[1580.62 --> 1584.02] Praise to the King of kings -[1584.02 --> 1586.72] You are my everything -[1586.72 --> 1591.72] And I will adore you -[1591.72 --> 1609.72] Float in rainbows -[1609.72 --> 1610.72] Living in rainbows -[1610.72 --> 1611.72] Living in rainbows -[1611.72 --> 1612.72] Living in rainbows -[1612.72 --> 1613.72] Living in rainbows -[1613.72 --> 1614.72] Living in rainbows -[1614.72 --> 1616.72] Flashes the mighty Lord -[1616.72 --> 1617.72] To the thunder -[1617.72 --> 1619.74] That Shaman -[1619.74 --> 1621.72] る -[1621.78 --> 1622.42] He rez -[1622.42 --> 1622.72] 등 -[1622.72 --> 1639.70] Gl -[1639.70 --> 1647.84] Is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to God. -[1651.06 --> 1657.56] With all creation I sing, praise to the King of kings. -[1657.56 --> 1664.60] You are my everything, and I will adore you. -[1669.70 --> 1693.86] Filled with wonder, awestruck wonder, at the mention of your name. -[1693.86 --> 1708.86] Filled with wonder, awestruck wonder, at the mention of your name. -[1708.86 --> 1717.86] Jesus, today is power, and the living water. -[1717.86 --> 1722.86] At your promises to me. -[1722.86 --> 1736.86] Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to God. -[1736.86 --> 1746.86] With all creation I sing, praise to the King of kings. -[1746.86 --> 1753.86] You are my everything, and I will adore you. -[1753.86 --> 1765.86] Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to God. -[1765.86 --> 1784.86] Holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to God Almighty. -[1784.86 --> 1792.86] Then I saw a lamb, looking as if it had been slain, standing at the center of the throne, -[1792.86 --> 1796.86] encircled by the four living creatures and the elders. -[1796.86 --> 1803.86] The lamb had seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven spirits God sent out into all the earth. -[1803.86 --> 1809.86] He went and took the scroll from the right hand of him who sat on the throne. -[1809.86 --> 1816.86] And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the lamb. -[1816.86 --> 1825.86] Each one had a harp, and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of God's people. -[1825.86 --> 1835.86] And they sang a new song, saying, you are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain. -[1835.86 --> 1842.86] And with your blood, you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation. -[1842.86 --> 1851.86] You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth. -[1851.86 --> 1857.86] Then I looked, and I heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, -[1857.86 --> 1864.86] and ten thousand times ten thousand, they encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. -[1864.86 --> 1875.86] In a loud voice, they were saying, worthy is the lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise. -[1875.86 --> 1883.86] Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea and all that is in them saying, -[1883.86 --> 1892.86] To him who sits on the throne and to the lamb be praise and honor and glory and power forever and ever. -[1892.86 --> 1911.86] Filled with wonder, awestruck wonder, at the mention of your name. -[1911.86 --> 1919.86] Jesus, you made its power, every living water, -[1919.86 --> 1921.86] found upon the saints now in. -[1921.86 --> 1932.86] Jesus, you made its power, -[1932.86 --> 1934.86] every living water, -[1934.86 --> 1935.86] every living water, -[1935.86 --> 1939.86] such a marvelous grace that He. -[1939.86 --> 1942.86] Holy, holy, holy, holy, -[1942.86 --> 1945.86] is the Lord God Almighty, -[1945.86 --> 1947.86] who was and is and is to come. -[1947.86 --> 1948.86] Holy, holy, holy, holy, -[1948.86 --> 1949.86] is the Lord God Almighty, -[1949.86 --> 1953.86] who was and is and is to come. -[1953.86 --> 1958.86] The Lord God Almighty, -[1958.86 --> 1959.86] from creation I see. -[1962.86 --> 1963.86] No, no, no, no, no, no. -[1963.86 --> 1965.86] Praise to the King of Jeans. -[1965.86 --> 1966.86] You are my everything -[1966.86 --> 1968.86] and I live without you. -[1968.86 --> 1971.86] Holy, holy, holy, holy, -[1971.86 --> 1975.86] is God thou art God Almighty, -[1975.86 --> 1980.86] who was and is and is to come. -[1980.86 --> 1983.82] The Lord to be is to come. -[1987.04 --> 1992.42] All creation I sing, praise to the King. -[1993.64 --> 2000.12] You are my everything, and I will adore you. -[2000.12 --> 2002.12] Amen. -[2030.12 --> 2032.12] Amen. -[2060.12 --> 2062.12] Amen. -[2090.12 --> 2092.12] Amen. -[2120.12 --> 2122.12] Amen. -[2150.12 --> 2152.12] Amen. -[2180.12 --> 2182.12] Amen. -[2210.12 --> 2215.68] There's joy for the morning, O sinner, be still. -[2216.38 --> 2221.00] Earth has no sorrow that heaven can't heal. -[2221.56 --> 2226.30] Earth has no sorrow that heaven can't heal. -[2228.94 --> 2234.72] Church of Christ, take this moment now to bring your sins in silent confession -[2234.72 --> 2240.10] to the God of grace, to the God of glory, and to the God of goodness. -[2240.10 --> 2241.10] Amen. -[2264.72 --> 2293.98] There's joy for the morning, O sinner, be still. -[2293.98 --> 2299.78] Earth has no sorrow that heaven can't heal. -[2299.78 --> 2305.54] Earth has no sorrow that heaven can't heal. -[2308.42 --> 2316.30] Lay down your hands, lay down your shame. -[2316.30 --> 2328.14] All who are broken, lift up your hands. -[2328.14 --> 2337.68] Oh, Lord, Lord, Lord, Lord, Lord, Lord, Lord, Lord, Lord, Lord. -[2337.68 --> 2343.86] So lay down your hands, lay down your heart. -[2343.86 --> 2349.26] That every second verse is with him. -[2349.34 --> 2353.86] The most part of Jesus has no addiction. -[2353.98 --> 2372.54] The cost of straps are no addiction. -[2372.54 --> 2388.96] This is my prayer in the desert -[2388.96 --> 2392.94] The moments that bring me to God -[2392.94 --> 2398.20] This is my prayer in my wonder and deep -[2398.20 --> 2401.46] My God is the God who provides -[2401.46 --> 2405.94] This is my prayer in the fire -[2405.94 --> 2410.12] In the deep deep so try to love me -[2410.12 --> 2415.06] There is a faith when you're nowhere to go -[2415.06 --> 2418.32] So please find me to be the day -[2418.32 --> 2422.68] I will bring praise, I will bring praise -[2422.68 --> 2426.66] For the faithfulness we shall remain -[2426.66 --> 2431.06] I will rejoice, I will be glad -[2431.06 --> 2434.54] Lord, it's my prayer in the desert -[2434.54 --> 2445.60] This is my prayer in the battle -[2445.60 --> 2449.54] Whose triumph is still on its way -[2449.54 --> 2454.02] I will bring praise, I will bring praise -[2454.02 --> 2458.50] And Christ comes up with him on his promise of sin -[2458.50 --> 2462.50] I will bring praise, I will bring praise -[2462.50 --> 2466.50] No end and paulness we shall remain -[2466.50 --> 2470.50] I will rejoice, I will declare -[2470.50 --> 2473.98] God is my prayer in the desert -[2473.98 --> 2478.98] I will bring praise, I will bring praise -[2478.98 --> 2483.46] God is my prayer in the desert -[2483.46 --> 2485.46] I will bring praise, I will bring praise -[2485.46 --> 2487.46] I will bring praise, I will bring praise -[2487.46 --> 2489.46] God is my prayer in the desert -[2489.46 --> 2495.46] Have I not commanded you? -[2495.46 --> 2497.46] Be strong and courageous -[2497.46 --> 2500.46] Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged -[2500.46 --> 2503.94] For your Lord, your God will be with you wherever you go -[2503.94 --> 2507.42] Let's go -[2507.42 --> 2510.90] All of my life, in every season -[2510.90 --> 2512.90] You are still God -[2512.90 --> 2516.90] I have a reason to sing -[2516.90 --> 2520.90] I have a reason to worship -[2520.90 --> 2526.90] All of my life, in every season -[2526.90 --> 2530.34] I have a reason you are still God -[2530.34 --> 2534.28] I have a reason to sing -[2534.28 --> 2539.98] I have a reason to worship -[2540.22 --> 2544.12] All of my life, in every season -[2544.12 --> 2546.32] You are still God -[2546.32 --> 2550.50] I have a reason to sing -[2550.50 --> 2556.26] I have a reason to worship -[2556.26 --> 2560.06] Oh, God, I will be in every seat. -[2560.30 --> 2565.36] If you are so God, I am a reason to serve. -[2566.24 --> 2569.34] I am a reason to worship. -[2571.48 --> 2575.02] I will praise. I will praise. -[2576.02 --> 2579.38] No weapon born with gifts shall remain. -[2580.24 --> 2583.60] I will rejoice. I will declare. -[2583.60 --> 2585.96] God is my victory. -[2586.26 --> 2592.24] I will praise. I will praise. -[2592.56 --> 2596.06] No weapon born with gifts shall remain. -[2596.58 --> 2600.10] I will rejoice. I will declare. -[2600.66 --> 2602.22] God is my victory. -[2602.60 --> 2603.70] I will praise. -[2611.70 --> 2612.60] I will praise. -[2612.60 --> 2614.60] I will praise. -[2614.60 --> 2616.60] I will praise. -[2616.60 --> 2618.60] I will praise. -[2618.60 --> 2620.60] I will praise. -[2620.60 --> 2625.48] I know I'm filled to be emptied again. -[2626.02 --> 2630.08] The seed I received I will sow. -[2630.08 --> 2632.00] I will Kwmeam, I will praise. -[2632.00 --> 2632.08] I will lift moonury and Israel. -[2632.08 --> 2632.84] I will praise. -[2633.12 --> 2634.08] I will praise. -[2634.08 --> 2635.88] I willãy subscribe to my board and for a brighter night. -[2635.88 --> 2639.86] I have a few congratulations to the descendants of Yvonne Andh Clay. -[2639.86 --> 2639.88] The Lordows afin of Harupta Petruch ter после theballs. -[2639.88 --> 2641.58] I will praise. -[2641.58 --> 2642.08] I will praise. -[2642.08 --> 2643.08] I will praise. -[2643.08 --> 2643.50] I will praise. -[2643.50 --> 2643.98] I will praise. -[2643.98 --> 2673.96] Let's sing a song. -[2673.98 --> 2683.68] Oh, what a fortress that's born from the deep of heart. -[2684.88 --> 2693.06] There of salvation, purchase of God. -[2694.28 --> 2701.14] Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood. -[2701.14 --> 2705.84] This is my story. -[2707.64 --> 2710.84] This is my song. -[2712.44 --> 2714.94] Praising my Savior. -[2716.94 --> 2719.84] All the day in life. -[2719.84 --> 2723.96] This is my story. -[2726.04 --> 2728.54] This is my song. -[2730.54 --> 2732.96] Praising my Savior. -[2735.04 --> 2737.84] All the day in life. -[2737.84 --> 2743.54] Joy, close and dashed out. -[2744.22 --> 2747.04] I am His love. -[2748.46 --> 2751.22] Following Jesus. -[2752.92 --> 2755.54] I'm never alone. -[2755.54 --> 2760.24] God of His Spirit. -[2762.04 --> 2764.54] I am the Lord. -[2766.54 --> 2773.74] Challenge to stand by Savior and Lord. -[2773.74 --> 2778.44] This is my story. -[2778.44 --> 2783.44] This is my song. -[2783.44 --> 2787.44] Praising my Savior. -[2787.44 --> 2792.24] All the day in life. -[2792.24 --> 2796.44] This is my story. -[2798.44 --> 2801.14] This is my song. -[2802.14 --> 2805.24] Praising my Savior. -[2805.24 --> 2810.24] All the day in life. -[2810.24 --> 2830.08] Oh, what a Savior. -[2830.08 --> 2834.78] Wonderful Jesus. -[2834.78 --> 2839.20] Oh, what a Savior. -[2839.20 --> 2843.82] Wonderful Jesus. -[2843.82 --> 2848.46] Oh, what a Savior. -[2848.46 --> 2853.02] Wonderful Jesus. -[2853.02 --> 2857.58] Oh, what a Savior. -[2858.58 --> 2862.08] Wonderful Jesus. -[2863.16 --> 2867.22] Champions are all good. -[2867.66 --> 2871.02] You are victorious. -[2871.02 --> 2876.58] Thanks for listening. -[2876.80 --> 2881.26] Vad I'm stubborn. -[2881.26 --> 2884.66] Oh, what a Savior. -[2884.66 --> 2887.72] I am the Lord. -[2887.72 --> 2889.02] Jesus. -[2889.08 --> 2893.50] Oh, how a Savior. -[2893.74 --> 2894.58] mniej j 我们是算的讀右 -[2894.64 --> 2896.82] seiner人贈佛 -[2896.82 --> 2898.66] 気 Originalinflu being -[2898.66 --> 2899.70] 權高man Ch lugares -[2899.70 --> 2903.02] You are forgiven. -[2903.66 --> 2907.02] You are forgiven. -[2908.12 --> 2910.96] Praise to the Lord. -[2910.96 --> 2912.96] Praise to the Lord. -[2912.96 --> 2914.96] Praise to the Lord. -[2921.96 --> 2923.84] Trust in the Lord and do good. -[2924.40 --> 2926.80] Dwell in the land and enjoy a safe pasture. -[2926.80 --> 2931.28] Take delight in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. -[2932.24 --> 2933.50] Commit your way to the Lord. -[2934.10 --> 2936.28] Trust in Him and He will do this. -[2936.90 --> 2939.74] He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn. -[2940.30 --> 2942.46] Your vindication like the noonday sun. -[2943.52 --> 2946.60] Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him. -[2947.36 --> 2949.80] Do not fret when people succeed in their ways. -[2950.28 --> 2952.26] When they carry out their wicked schemes. -[2953.16 --> 2955.60] Refrain from anger and turn from wrath. -[2955.60 --> 2956.84] Do not fret. -[2957.32 --> 2958.58] It leads only to evil. -[2959.44 --> 2961.26] For those who are evil will be destroyed. -[2962.02 --> 2964.82] But those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land. -[2965.48 --> 2968.22] A little while and the wicked will be no more. -[2968.90 --> 2971.52] Though you look for them, they will not be found. -[2972.06 --> 2975.58] But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy peace and prosperity. -[2976.52 --> 2979.12] The blameless spend their days under the Lord's care. -[2979.62 --> 2981.62] And their inheritance will endure forever. -[2981.62 --> 2984.86] In times of disaster, they will not wither. -[2985.34 --> 2988.00] In days of famine, they will enjoy plenty. -[2989.00 --> 2992.04] The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in Him. -[2992.68 --> 2995.34] Though he may stumble, he will not fall. -[2995.76 --> 2997.64] For the Lord upholds him with His hand. -[2997.64 --> 3000.80] The salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord. -[3000.80 --> 3003.40] The Lord is their stronghold in time of trouble. -[3003.86 --> 3006.34] The Lord helps them and He delivers them. -[3006.72 --> 3009.16] He delivers them from the wicked and He saves them. -[3009.52 --> 3011.66] Because they take refuge in Him. -[3011.66 --> 3041.64] The Savior says, -[3041.66 --> 3046.66] O King above -[3047.42 --> 3051.66] Filled with His goodness -[3052.76 --> 3056.66] Filled in His love -[3071.66 --> 3081.66] Filled in His love -[3081.66 --> 3083.66] Come all you weary -[3083.66 --> 3085.66] Come all you thirsty -[3085.66 --> 3087.66] Come to the well -[3087.66 --> 3089.66] That never runs by -[3089.66 --> 3091.66] Drink of the water -[3091.66 --> 3095.66] Come and there's no more -[3095.66 --> 3099.66] Come all you thirsty -[3099.66 --> 3101.66] Come all you thirsty -[3101.66 --> 3103.66] Come to the table -[3103.66 --> 3105.66] He will satisfy -[3105.66 --> 3107.66] Please tell His goodness -[3107.66 --> 3111.66] What would you love Him for? -[3113.66 --> 3115.66] For God so loud -[3115.66 --> 3117.66] The food that He gave us -[3117.66 --> 3119.66] His one and only -[3119.66 --> 3121.66] Son to save us -[3121.66 --> 3123.66] He never believes in -[3123.66 --> 3127.66] He will lift the ground -[3131.66 --> 3133.66] Come all you thirsty -[3133.66 --> 3135.66] In your attention -[3135.66 --> 3137.66] God made the ground -[3137.66 --> 3139.66] Of the blood of your hearts -[3139.66 --> 3142.66] Jesus is waiting for -[3142.66 --> 3145.66] He won't pay for us -[3147.66 --> 3149.66] For God so loud -[3149.66 --> 3151.66] The world that He gave us -[3151.66 --> 3153.66] He's one and only -[3153.66 --> 3155.66] Son to save us -[3155.66 --> 3157.66] He will lift the peace -[3157.66 --> 3159.66] He will lift the ground -[3159.66 --> 3161.66] He will lift the ground -[3161.66 --> 3165.66] The blood of God -[3165.66 --> 3167.66] Whoever can give His love -[3167.66 --> 3169.66] He will lift the ground -[3169.66 --> 3171.66] He will lift the ground -[3171.66 --> 3173.66] He will lift the ground -[3173.66 --> 3175.66] He will lift the ground -[3175.66 --> 3179.66] Of the blood of God -[3179.66 --> 3181.66] He will lift the ground -[3181.66 --> 3183.66] He will lift the ground -[3183.66 --> 3185.66] Thank you for the Lord -[3185.66 --> 3209.94] all -[3215.66 --> 3224.08] For God so loved the world that He gave us, His one and only Son to save us. -[3224.08 --> 3234.12] For God so loved the world that He gave us, His one and only Son to save us, His heaven to be. -[3234.12 --> 3236.72] He loved forever. -[3236.72 --> 3257.26] For God so loved forever, live in our lives, His love, God so loved the world. -[3257.26 --> 3265.46] Bring all your failures, bring all your addictions, come lay them down at the foot of the cross. -[3265.46 --> 3272.18] Jesus is waiting, God so loved the world. -[3285.04 --> 3286.00] Good morning. -[3288.36 --> 3290.80] My name is Brenda and I'm a deacon here at Emanuel. -[3290.80 --> 3293.48] We continue our worship with the giving of our gifts -[3293.48 --> 3297.42] to the budget, which covers the administration of the church and its ministries. -[3297.90 --> 3302.50] And our special offering this morning is for NAME, North America Indigenous Ministries. -[3303.32 --> 3308.54] NAME is a multicultural team that exists to glorify God through building the church -[3308.54 --> 3312.40] by making disciples among North American indigenous peoples. -[3312.78 --> 3317.28] To reach the world for Christ, although the words evangelism and discipleship -[3317.28 --> 3318.92] are not in their mission statement, -[3319.46 --> 3322.94] making disciples is all about evangelism and discipleship. -[3322.94 --> 3325.32] This is the bread and butter of who they are. -[3326.18 --> 3329.90] NAME is committed to the growth and maturity of the First Nations Church, -[3330.30 --> 3333.94] resulting in vibrant ministry to its community and beyond. -[3334.48 --> 3338.92] With the desire to see strong, healthy First Nations Native American believers -[3338.92 --> 3342.04] connected to strong, healthy local churches. -[3342.88 --> 3347.04] In some areas, the local church will have a district First Nations identity. -[3347.58 --> 3350.60] In other locations, the identity may be more multicultural. -[3350.60 --> 3355.74] Equipping and supporting First Nations people to engage in ministry near and far -[3355.74 --> 3357.38] is very important to them. -[3358.32 --> 3362.62] Tim and Charity Johnson and family, who are supported by us at Emanuel, -[3363.28 --> 3367.12] they desire to see Shushwap First Nations youth and young families -[3367.12 --> 3371.26] grounded and strong in their identity and love for each other -[3371.26 --> 3373.26] and their surrounding communities. -[3373.26 --> 3377.08] With the knowledge and understanding of who the Creator is -[3377.08 --> 3379.50] and the love He has for all people. -[3381.12 --> 3383.82] 2 Corinthians 9, verse 6 to 8. -[3384.22 --> 3387.28] Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, -[3387.56 --> 3389.36] not reluctantly or under compulsion, -[3389.68 --> 3391.00] for God loves a cheerful giver. -[3391.52 --> 3393.36] And God is able to bless you abundantly, -[3393.56 --> 3395.56] so that in all things, at all times, -[3395.94 --> 3396.96] having all that you need, -[3396.96 --> 3398.70] you will bound in every good work. -[3399.42 --> 3401.48] Next week's offering is for Night Shift. -[3401.48 --> 3403.18] Shushwap First Nations -[3405.26 --> 3429.80] Wanna Rock -[3429.80 --> 3441.48] I give you my life, I give you my trust, Jesus. -[3441.48 --> 3454.76] And you are my love, and you are enough, Jesus. -[3454.76 --> 3461.56] Jesus, Jesus. -[3463.70 --> 3471.08] My heart is yours, my heart is yours. -[3471.48 --> 3477.92] Take it all, take it all, my life in your hands. -[3477.92 --> 3484.80] My heart is yours, my heart is yours. -[3485.10 --> 3491.84] Take it all, take it all, my life in your hands. -[3494.04 --> 3499.70] I give you my life, I give you my cross. -[3499.70 --> 3503.90] Jesus. -[3506.14 --> 3512.88] For you are my love, whatever life falls. -[3512.88 --> 3517.08] Jesus. -[3519.32 --> 3520.08] Jesus. -[3520.08 --> 3523.76] Oh, Jesus. -[3523.76 --> 3524.76] Jesus. -[3524.76 --> 3525.76] Jesus. -[3525.76 --> 3526.76] Jesus. -[3526.76 --> 3527.76] Jesus. -[3527.76 --> 3528.76] Jesus. -[3528.76 --> 3529.76] Jesus. -[3529.76 --> 3531.30] Oh, Jesus. -[3531.30 --> 3531.32] Jesus. -[3534.76 --> 3535.76] programmer -[3535.76 --> 3540.50] take it all -[3541.12 --> 3545.52] take it -[3547.14 --> 3551.54] take it all -[3552.20 --> 3554.62] take it all -[3554.62 --> 3561.70] To Jesus I surrender all -[3561.70 --> 3566.50] To Him I pray for -[3566.50 --> 3571.54] Oh, I will never know -[3571.54 --> 3576.64] And trust Him in His presence -[3576.64 --> 3581.48] There is no love -[3581.48 --> 3588.08] To Jesus I surrender all -[3588.08 --> 3592.52] To Him I pray for -[3592.52 --> 3597.86] Oh, I will never know -[3597.86 --> 3602.96] And trust Him in His presence -[3602.96 --> 3610.90] My heart is yours -[3610.90 --> 3614.34] My heart is yours -[3614.34 --> 3617.74] Take it all, take it all -[3617.74 --> 3620.94] My life in Your hands -[3620.94 --> 3624.42] My heart is yours -[3624.42 --> 3627.78] My heart is yours -[3627.78 --> 3631.18] Take it all, take it all -[3631.18 --> 3635.06] My life in Your hands -[3635.06 --> 3639.12] My heart is yours -[3639.12 --> 3645.06] Take it all, take it all -[3645.06 --> 3647.56] My life in Your hands -[3647.56 --> 3651.06] My heart is yours -[3651.06 --> 3657.04] Take it all, take it all -[3657.04 --> 3660.92] My life in Your hands -[3660.92 --> 3664.98] Take it all, take it all -[3664.98 --> 3666.98] My life in Your hands -[3666.98 --> 3676.92] My life in Your hands -[3676.92 --> 3678.92] My life in Your hands -[3678.92 --> 3686.86] I'd like to take a moment to invite all the kids to come up. If you are age three up to grade four, can come up and join us for a moment. -[3686.86 --> 3704.74] You're five perfect. If you're five, you should come on up. Or six. I'm gonna show you something. So I'm gonna show you something that's gonna introduce us to what we're gonna talk about today in children's worship time. What do you think it might be? -[3704.74 --> 3722.62] No, you can't guess you saw what it is. What might we be talking about in children's worship time? The fruits of the Spirit. That is such a good guess because we were talking about the fruits of the Spirit. And this time we're switching. -[3722.62 --> 3741.28] We're gonna switch to something totally different. So it's like a surprise. Are you ready? I'm gonna show you what we're gonna talk about. Turn around. -[3741.28 --> 3749.42] Mario. Mario. Yeah. Mario. Yeah. You guys all knew Mario is. There's some more people in Mario. -[3750.90 --> 3753.98] Let's see if I can. How about this guy? Do we know who this is? -[3755.12 --> 3759.76] Luigi. Yeah. Very important. And there's one more. My favorite guy in Mario. -[3761.34 --> 3765.64] Yoshi. Yeah. And there's someone else in Mario who's really important. -[3766.44 --> 3770.06] He's a really important guy. I didn't show you a picture of him. Who might that be? -[3771.28 --> 3772.70] Emma? -[3775.10 --> 3781.22] Princess Peach. Yeah. Princess Peach is really important because Mario and Luigi, they're trying to, what are they trying to do for Peach? -[3782.14 --> 3782.46] Malachi? -[3785.74 --> 3791.42] Right. Yeah. Sometimes, yeah. They're trying to save her. But why do they need to save her? They need to save her for a reason. -[3793.80 --> 3800.96] They need to save her from Bowser. That's right. That's the other guy, Bowser. He's kind of like the enemy in Mario, right? -[3800.96 --> 3807.74] He's Mario's enemy. And he's trying to make Mario's life a lot more difficult and stop him from rescuing Princess Peach. -[3808.48 --> 3814.46] So in children's worship time today, we are going to talk about how there is an enemy of God, too, -[3815.00 --> 3819.60] that we call Satan or the devil and how he tries to separate us from God. -[3819.60 --> 3826.34] But we know that in the Bible, we learn in the book of Romans, chapter 8, that nothing can separate us from the love of God, -[3826.76 --> 3829.46] even God's enemy, because God has already won. -[3830.98 --> 3833.84] So that's our topic, our big idea for today. -[3834.22 --> 3838.24] So we're going to, before we learn more about that, we're going to stand up and do our blessing, -[3838.62 --> 3841.18] and then we'll head off to children's worship. -[3841.18 --> 3842.08] See you here. -[3871.18 --> 3878.84] We're going to continue in prayer together. -[3880.64 --> 3888.58] Before we pray, just a couple notes or updates from some of the church family members that we have been praying about. -[3888.58 --> 3899.98] Ellen White continues her stay at Delta Hospital, where she's recovering from a fractured patella -[3899.98 --> 3903.48] and an ache in her chest and back because of a fall. -[3904.00 --> 3907.60] That's pretty bad and pretty debilitating for her. -[3908.78 --> 3913.90] She's having a really hard time there, and we are Ellen's people. -[3913.90 --> 3917.28] In many respects, we are all she has. -[3917.58 --> 3926.04] Her family is in San Francisco, and so a number of us have put a group together that are going out to visit her regularly. -[3926.60 --> 3932.74] If you were moved to write her a card or something like that, there's a box on the wall for the office there. -[3933.16 --> 3934.44] We encourage you to do that. -[3934.54 --> 3941.80] Fill out a card, put it in the box, and then we'll make sure with the regular people who are going out to Delta to visit her that she gets that. -[3941.80 --> 3947.96] Having visited her with my family, I know how much she appreciates that. -[3948.44 --> 3952.06] Put that in front of you and lay that on your heart. -[3953.02 --> 3964.16] As well, we are mourning, and in some respects, we are grateful to God with the DeVries family. -[3964.64 --> 3968.26] Trudy DeVries' mom passed away on Friday morning. -[3968.26 --> 3973.70] She was 97 and had been struggling for a long time. -[3974.18 --> 3979.36] And so Trudy said that she is grateful that her mom now gets to see Jesus. -[3980.32 --> 3990.26] And so we are with you and praying for you, but also wanted to share with everyone here that next Sunday on June 25th, -[3990.26 --> 3997.50] there will be a celebration of life and a memorial for her at 2 p.m. -[3998.04 --> 4001.08] So that will be here at church at 2 p.m. next week Sunday. -[4001.80 --> 4006.86] Those details will be in the midweek memo this week as well, so you have that written there. -[4008.56 --> 4011.10] Let's come to God in our continued prayer this morning. -[4011.10 --> 4025.14] Holy God and Heavenly Father, we continue in prayer together today. -[4025.36 --> 4030.78] We continue in prayer precisely because you are God. -[4031.26 --> 4036.10] Precisely because we cry out to you, Abba, Father. -[4036.10 --> 4044.34] And to you, our Heavenly Father, we come, even on this Father's Day, to give you praise, -[4045.02 --> 4054.60] and to acknowledge who you are, and to proclaim to the darkness in the world and in our hearts the gospel of Jesus Christ. -[4054.60 --> 4061.50] Humbly, we bow before your presence, worshiping your name, -[4061.60 --> 4068.30] joining our voice with the angels and the elders and all who are in heaven and all of creation singing, -[4068.50 --> 4070.40] Holy, Holy, Holy. -[4072.88 --> 4077.56] In this place, Lord God, we come to lift you up. -[4077.68 --> 4083.18] And we come, Lord God, that you might lift us up out of the pit. -[4083.18 --> 4086.52] That you might save us from the grave. -[4086.62 --> 4090.52] That you might restore us to the joy of your salvation. -[4093.88 --> 4096.42] You're overflowing with your love. -[4098.32 --> 4105.34] Fill us with your compassion for the world, and fill us with the power of your Holy Spirit. -[4105.34 --> 4115.40] God, as we ask for your filling presence, we pray that you would be near to those whom we know and love. -[4116.50 --> 4120.64] Be near to Ellen as she continues in the hospital. -[4120.90 --> 4125.14] Give her all that she needs, and encourage her heart, Lord God. -[4125.22 --> 4129.50] Help her to know your nearness and your presence. -[4129.50 --> 4134.04] And help us, her church family, to minister that. -[4135.94 --> 4140.20] Father God, we continue in prayer for those who are recovering. -[4140.62 --> 4148.92] We continue in prayer for those who have received treatment and who are now on the path of convalescing, -[4149.02 --> 4150.58] whether at home or in hospital. -[4150.58 --> 4152.76] And so we pray, Lord God. -[4153.68 --> 4163.34] We pray for the treatments and the journey of healing and wholeness for those, Lord God, who are struggling. -[4164.04 --> 4167.76] We pray that you would be with Elise and give her all that she needs. -[4168.96 --> 4173.62] We pray, Lord God, that you would be with Teenie and give her all that she needs. -[4173.62 --> 4180.20] We pray that you would be with Mina as well and give her all that she needs too. -[4182.50 --> 4192.98] Father, as we come before you, we come as those trusting in your healing hand, trusting in your power to restore, -[4193.20 --> 4195.70] and so bring healing and restoration. -[4195.70 --> 4207.38] God, we pray that you would be with Trudy and with the whole family as they mourn the loss of mother, grandma, great-grandma. -[4207.74 --> 4208.82] They mourn Femi. -[4209.90 --> 4213.36] We thank you, God, for her 97 years. -[4213.52 --> 4215.26] We thank you for her faith. -[4215.68 --> 4221.38] We thank you for the testimony from the family that she now is able to see you more clearly. -[4222.38 --> 4224.02] And we praise your name for that. -[4225.70 --> 4229.76] And still we miss those who pass from our presence. -[4231.28 --> 4236.86] Even as we acknowledge that they have entered into yours more fully than we do here, -[4236.96 --> 4239.22] they see more clearly than we do here. -[4240.82 --> 4246.42] Their absence and our inability to see them is still hard. -[4247.32 --> 4250.46] And so we ask, God, for your presence to sustain. -[4251.08 --> 4254.06] Even as we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, -[4254.06 --> 4258.42] may we fear no evil for you are with us, -[4259.02 --> 4261.42] your rod and your staff to comfort us. -[4264.82 --> 4267.60] God, during this season of life, -[4267.76 --> 4276.64] we are also mindful that the school year is ending for elementary and middle and high school kids among us. -[4276.64 --> 4279.50] And so we pray for that year to finish well. -[4280.70 --> 4287.60] We know also that this coming week there are graduation ceremonies for a number of those present here. -[4287.72 --> 4292.10] We pray that you would bless those events and bless those circumstances in life -[4292.10 --> 4300.48] and bless those people who are beginning a new season of their young lives. -[4300.52 --> 4307.60] Whether that's moving into high school after this summer or moving into college or university or into the workforce in some way, -[4307.74 --> 4311.28] Lord God, we pray that you would be near to them -[4311.28 --> 4315.18] and that they would acknowledge you both in their celebrations of this achievement -[4315.18 --> 4318.76] and also in the days, weeks, months, and years to come. -[4320.20 --> 4325.66] To that end, Father God, we pray as well for the young people who are in pastor's class right now, -[4325.78 --> 4328.66] giving them the opportunity to discern their faith -[4328.66 --> 4331.28] and to discern through asking questions. -[4331.28 --> 4335.14] As we wonder together about professions of faith, -[4335.56 --> 4339.18] we pray, Lord, that you would speak clearly to their hearts -[4339.18 --> 4342.08] and that they would know who you are -[4342.08 --> 4345.32] and would give themselves over to you in fullness. -[4347.58 --> 4350.12] Holy Father, as we come now to your word, -[4350.22 --> 4353.54] we pray that you would bless us in the hearing of it, -[4353.72 --> 4357.00] bless us in the proclaiming of it, -[4357.00 --> 4360.88] and send us out in the power of your spirit -[4360.88 --> 4365.12] to live faithful lives as servants of Jesus Christ. -[4365.64 --> 4367.36] It is in his name that we pray. -[4368.18 --> 4368.54] Amen. -[4387.00 --> 4397.72] We will continue with our reading and our work through Romans. -[4398.80 --> 4403.64] We will read only two verses this morning, Romans 8. -[4404.22 --> 4407.56] We're going to read verse 28 to 30. -[4408.58 --> 4410.06] So three verses, I guess, technically. -[4412.72 --> 4414.90] I clarified. I got it. Thanks, Aaron. -[4417.00 --> 4424.06] All right, Romans 8. -[4424.68 --> 4428.06] Let's read this together. -[4430.56 --> 4437.32] We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, -[4437.90 --> 4440.36] who have been called according to his purpose. -[4441.24 --> 4444.82] For those God foreknew, he also predestined -[4444.82 --> 4447.28] to be conformed to the image of his Son, -[4447.90 --> 4451.36] that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. -[4452.32 --> 4454.78] And those he predestined, he also called. -[4455.56 --> 4457.92] Those he called, he also justified. -[4458.58 --> 4462.18] Those he justified, he also glorified. -[4463.14 --> 4464.40] This is the word of the Lord. -[4464.40 --> 4476.28] Very intentionally this morning, -[4476.46 --> 4481.36] we have been practicing prayer together -[4481.36 --> 4484.82] as part of our worship. -[4484.82 --> 4491.92] One of the questions that people ask me all the time -[4491.92 --> 4495.70] is, if God is sovereign, -[4496.28 --> 4498.20] that is, if he is in control of everything, -[4498.38 --> 4499.70] why should I pray? -[4500.98 --> 4503.16] What's the point of prayer at all? -[4503.16 --> 4509.20] And, connected to that, -[4509.42 --> 4512.48] and grounding us further in Romans 8, -[4513.54 --> 4515.26] what do we do, -[4515.36 --> 4516.78] or what do we pray, -[4517.54 --> 4519.00] when our words fail us? -[4520.74 --> 4522.48] Right, when things are so troubled, -[4522.78 --> 4523.84] or broken, -[4524.14 --> 4525.84] that you don't even know what to pray. -[4527.36 --> 4529.36] Now, in the section before our reading, -[4529.46 --> 4531.28] we looked at it in detail last week, -[4531.28 --> 4532.48] and I encourage you, if you weren't here, -[4532.54 --> 4534.14] you can check that online. -[4534.84 --> 4536.00] But in the section before, -[4536.40 --> 4537.76] Paul writes, he says, -[4538.02 --> 4539.94] we do not know what to pray for, -[4540.06 --> 4543.78] but the Spirit himself intercedes for us -[4543.78 --> 4545.72] through wordless groans. -[4548.06 --> 4550.88] And so, the guttural groan -[4550.88 --> 4554.04] is the prayer of a faithful mother -[4554.04 --> 4555.66] whose child is in the hospital. -[4557.30 --> 4558.98] The moan for mercy -[4558.98 --> 4561.52] is the cry of a broken spirit -[4561.52 --> 4563.62] who longs to feel whole -[4563.62 --> 4565.14] and at home in their body. -[4566.56 --> 4569.48] And the long exhale of exasperation -[4569.48 --> 4570.68] is the friend -[4570.68 --> 4572.30] at the end of her capacity -[4572.30 --> 4573.62] to handle life. -[4576.28 --> 4580.22] Those groans and moans -[4580.22 --> 4583.18] and exasperated exhales, -[4583.44 --> 4585.40] those turned into prayer, -[4585.88 --> 4587.56] are what the Holy Spirit does. -[4588.98 --> 4590.42] But, -[4590.90 --> 4592.92] here's the thing, -[4593.60 --> 4596.16] when you're in that moment, -[4597.54 --> 4598.94] when that's all you have, -[4600.08 --> 4602.66] it sure doesn't feel like -[4602.66 --> 4605.06] the Spirit is at work. -[4606.92 --> 4607.74] And so, -[4608.22 --> 4611.08] when my hope -[4611.08 --> 4614.52] doesn't match my feelings, -[4614.52 --> 4617.58] how can I have confidence? -[4619.84 --> 4622.04] What is the source of my joy -[4622.04 --> 4623.72] and my confidence, -[4624.22 --> 4625.14] even when, -[4625.24 --> 4627.30] perhaps even especially when, -[4627.44 --> 4628.80] you don't feel it -[4628.80 --> 4630.72] or you can't see it -[4630.72 --> 4631.92] in this life? -[4633.66 --> 4634.94] That's the question -[4634.94 --> 4636.88] I want to begin with -[4636.88 --> 4638.14] this morning. -[4639.20 --> 4640.46] When my feelings -[4640.46 --> 4641.98] don't match my hope, -[4641.98 --> 4644.66] how can I have confidence? -[4647.30 --> 4647.80] Now, -[4647.84 --> 4649.04] the answer to this question, -[4649.82 --> 4652.64] the answer to this question -[4652.64 --> 4653.66] is a truth -[4653.66 --> 4655.30] of who God is -[4655.30 --> 4657.18] and what God does -[4657.18 --> 4658.74] because of who He is. -[4660.02 --> 4661.04] And I know that -[4661.04 --> 4662.16] for some of you, -[4662.26 --> 4663.40] what I'm about to say -[4663.40 --> 4666.34] is going to sound obvious. -[4666.34 --> 4668.38] and I acknowledge that -[4668.38 --> 4670.24] and yet, -[4670.68 --> 4672.20] I want you to hear it -[4672.20 --> 4674.74] and I want you to journey with me. -[4675.28 --> 4675.80] Here it is. -[4677.44 --> 4679.72] The truth of who God is -[4679.72 --> 4680.96] and what He does -[4680.96 --> 4681.70] in the world -[4681.70 --> 4684.28] is not contingent upon -[4684.28 --> 4685.68] us believing it -[4685.68 --> 4687.36] or believing Him. -[4688.88 --> 4689.94] Let me put it another way. -[4690.44 --> 4692.16] It is not required -[4692.16 --> 4693.30] that you feel -[4693.30 --> 4694.50] God's presence -[4694.50 --> 4695.68] or see -[4695.68 --> 4697.12] God working -[4697.12 --> 4698.02] for Him -[4698.02 --> 4699.38] to be actually present -[4699.38 --> 4701.14] and actually working. -[4702.54 --> 4703.46] Let me illustrate -[4703.46 --> 4704.68] what I mean -[4704.68 --> 4705.66] and what's going on here. -[4706.48 --> 4707.18] How many of you -[4707.18 --> 4708.08] know the story -[4708.08 --> 4708.82] of Peter Pan -[4708.82 --> 4711.20] or if you grew up -[4711.20 --> 4711.80] in the 90s, -[4711.84 --> 4712.30] remember the movie -[4712.30 --> 4712.62] Hook -[4712.62 --> 4713.68] with Robin Williams, -[4713.94 --> 4714.96] one of the best movies -[4714.96 --> 4715.48] ever made? -[4717.02 --> 4717.22] Now, -[4717.28 --> 4718.48] in the original -[4718.48 --> 4719.64] stage production -[4719.64 --> 4720.74] of Peter Pan, -[4720.74 --> 4722.42] there is a scene -[4722.42 --> 4723.50] where Tinkerbell, -[4723.70 --> 4725.44] who's the magic mini fairy, -[4725.90 --> 4726.94] where she dies -[4726.94 --> 4729.32] and the only thing -[4729.32 --> 4730.52] that revives her -[4730.52 --> 4732.60] is belief in her. -[4733.36 --> 4733.68] Right? -[4733.72 --> 4734.98] You have to really believe -[4734.98 --> 4735.96] that she is alive -[4735.96 --> 4737.18] and that she'll come back -[4737.18 --> 4738.04] to life in the play. -[4738.92 --> 4739.50] And so, -[4739.66 --> 4740.74] it's an audience -[4740.74 --> 4741.84] interactive moment -[4741.84 --> 4742.60] in the play -[4742.60 --> 4744.48] that when she's dying there, -[4744.58 --> 4745.24] you're encouraged -[4745.24 --> 4745.92] to clap -[4745.92 --> 4746.90] and to cheer -[4746.90 --> 4748.18] and to call out, -[4748.50 --> 4748.74] Tink, -[4748.84 --> 4749.48] come back! -[4749.48 --> 4751.36] And the louder you get, -[4751.44 --> 4752.18] the louder you get, -[4752.32 --> 4752.84] finally, -[4753.32 --> 4754.48] the actor on stage -[4754.48 --> 4754.78] says, -[4754.88 --> 4755.04] okay, -[4755.16 --> 4755.94] you've reached enough -[4755.94 --> 4756.70] of a fever pitch -[4756.70 --> 4758.16] and Tink comes back. -[4760.24 --> 4760.72] Now, -[4760.88 --> 4762.76] it's a pretty raucous experience -[4762.76 --> 4763.84] and it's pretty cool -[4763.84 --> 4764.54] to see. -[4766.12 --> 4767.90] Their belief in her -[4767.90 --> 4769.68] brings her back. -[4772.16 --> 4772.32] Now, -[4773.08 --> 4773.60] psychologists -[4773.60 --> 4774.96] and philosophers -[4774.96 --> 4776.56] and theologians alike -[4776.56 --> 4777.88] have taken this idea -[4777.88 --> 4779.46] and they've made it, -[4779.68 --> 4780.44] they've given a name -[4780.44 --> 4781.64] to a concept by it. -[4781.90 --> 4782.38] It's called -[4782.38 --> 4783.70] the Tinkerbell effect. -[4785.28 --> 4787.12] And the Tinkerbell effect -[4787.12 --> 4788.20] is the idea -[4788.20 --> 4789.96] that something exists -[4789.96 --> 4791.50] only because -[4791.50 --> 4793.14] people believe in it. -[4795.54 --> 4796.48] Neil Gaiman, -[4797.16 --> 4799.30] who's an American author, -[4799.42 --> 4800.80] he plays with this idea -[4800.80 --> 4801.72] in his book, -[4801.84 --> 4802.80] American Gods. -[4802.80 --> 4804.88] It's a fiction book -[4804.88 --> 4805.60] that talks about -[4805.60 --> 4806.72] how belief -[4806.72 --> 4808.04] in the old gods, -[4808.38 --> 4809.54] like Odin and Zeus -[4809.54 --> 4810.70] and the different manifestations, -[4811.18 --> 4811.94] is fading -[4811.94 --> 4813.46] and so, -[4814.04 --> 4814.38] therefore, -[4814.60 --> 4815.56] is their power. -[4816.94 --> 4817.14] Right? -[4817.18 --> 4817.80] And it's fading -[4817.80 --> 4818.54] because there's -[4818.54 --> 4819.76] these new gods -[4819.76 --> 4820.72] in Gaiman's book -[4820.72 --> 4821.60] of technology -[4821.60 --> 4822.34] and media -[4822.34 --> 4823.24] and progress -[4823.24 --> 4824.18] who are gaining -[4824.18 --> 4825.00] more strength. -[4826.38 --> 4826.58] Now, -[4826.68 --> 4828.36] in Neil Gaiman's book, -[4828.48 --> 4829.26] it's attention -[4829.26 --> 4830.50] and time -[4830.50 --> 4831.66] that are the metrics -[4831.66 --> 4832.56] of belief. -[4833.52 --> 4833.76] So, -[4833.84 --> 4834.58] where you place -[4834.58 --> 4835.72] your attention -[4835.72 --> 4836.66] and to what -[4836.66 --> 4838.26] we give our time -[4838.26 --> 4839.54] is the expression -[4839.54 --> 4840.44] of belief -[4840.44 --> 4841.32] that literally -[4841.32 --> 4842.74] creates a God -[4842.74 --> 4844.12] in Gaiman's world. -[4846.00 --> 4846.42] And so, -[4847.10 --> 4848.40] when I say -[4848.40 --> 4850.18] that the truth -[4850.18 --> 4851.58] of who God is -[4851.58 --> 4853.02] is not contingent -[4853.02 --> 4854.42] upon our believing -[4854.42 --> 4855.02] Him -[4855.02 --> 4856.84] or believing in Him, -[4857.62 --> 4857.86] right, -[4857.94 --> 4859.10] most of us, -[4859.32 --> 4860.28] at least here, -[4860.50 --> 4862.12] know that that is true. -[4863.22 --> 4863.40] Right? -[4863.44 --> 4864.00] Most of us -[4864.00 --> 4865.08] would profess, -[4865.32 --> 4865.82] maybe we wouldn't -[4865.82 --> 4867.08] use exactly these words, -[4867.22 --> 4868.24] but that the God -[4868.24 --> 4868.80] of the Bible -[4868.80 --> 4870.04] is the only truly -[4870.04 --> 4871.46] non-contingent being -[4871.46 --> 4872.26] in the universe. -[4873.64 --> 4873.86] Right? -[4873.94 --> 4874.46] By Him -[4874.46 --> 4875.20] and through Him -[4875.20 --> 4876.08] and for Him -[4876.08 --> 4877.62] all things are created. -[4877.80 --> 4878.38] In Him -[4878.38 --> 4879.22] all things -[4879.22 --> 4880.12] hold together. -[4880.52 --> 4881.42] Our being -[4881.42 --> 4882.86] is only possible -[4882.86 --> 4884.34] in His being -[4884.34 --> 4885.86] or by His being. -[4886.18 --> 4886.86] And in fact, -[4887.04 --> 4887.86] we can go so far -[4887.86 --> 4888.20] as to say -[4888.20 --> 4889.82] that this is definitional -[4889.82 --> 4890.62] to God -[4890.62 --> 4891.40] being God. -[4892.72 --> 4892.96] Right? -[4892.96 --> 4894.04] For God to be -[4894.04 --> 4894.70] God, -[4894.80 --> 4895.22] Yahweh, -[4895.38 --> 4896.86] I am who I am, -[4896.98 --> 4898.00] this must be -[4898.00 --> 4898.96] true of Him. -[4900.58 --> 4901.26] And yet, -[4901.78 --> 4903.78] when things -[4903.78 --> 4904.96] get really hard, -[4906.24 --> 4907.06] when we enter -[4907.06 --> 4908.88] into sufferings -[4908.88 --> 4909.56] and trial -[4909.56 --> 4910.44] and struggles, -[4910.66 --> 4912.24] we think about God -[4912.24 --> 4913.70] more like Tinkerbell -[4913.70 --> 4915.46] than we do -[4915.46 --> 4916.20] the God of the Bible. -[4916.20 --> 4918.48] here's what I mean. -[4919.58 --> 4920.78] When our feelings -[4920.78 --> 4921.52] about God -[4921.52 --> 4922.62] or the lack -[4922.62 --> 4923.30] of feelings -[4923.30 --> 4924.38] about God -[4924.38 --> 4925.76] determine -[4925.76 --> 4927.20] whether or not -[4927.20 --> 4928.10] we think God -[4928.10 --> 4928.86] is present -[4928.86 --> 4929.86] or doing something -[4929.86 --> 4931.10] in our circumstances, -[4931.10 --> 4932.14] we're thinking -[4932.14 --> 4932.70] about God -[4932.70 --> 4933.32] like Tinkerbell. -[4935.00 --> 4935.72] And so, -[4935.82 --> 4936.20] when people -[4936.20 --> 4937.54] say things like, -[4938.12 --> 4939.10] I can't accept -[4939.10 --> 4939.68] a God -[4939.68 --> 4940.38] who would let -[4940.38 --> 4941.00] bad things -[4941.00 --> 4941.96] happen to good people. -[4942.58 --> 4943.42] Or when people -[4943.42 --> 4944.36] say things like, -[4944.36 --> 4945.54] if God didn't -[4945.54 --> 4946.38] want me to be -[4946.38 --> 4946.98] this way, -[4947.08 --> 4947.48] He wouldn't -[4947.48 --> 4948.16] have made me -[4948.16 --> 4948.74] this way. -[4949.68 --> 4950.20] Or, -[4950.40 --> 4951.78] if God is real, -[4951.92 --> 4952.40] He must have -[4952.40 --> 4953.18] abandoned me -[4953.18 --> 4954.14] or He hates me -[4954.14 --> 4954.96] because I don't -[4954.96 --> 4955.48] see Him, -[4955.56 --> 4956.64] I don't hear Him, -[4956.76 --> 4957.80] and I don't feel Him. -[4959.12 --> 4960.12] We could go on and on. -[4960.20 --> 4961.02] There are so many -[4961.02 --> 4961.88] examples of how -[4961.88 --> 4962.90] people today -[4962.90 --> 4963.98] in this world, -[4964.30 --> 4965.26] how even we -[4965.26 --> 4966.18] sometimes, -[4966.52 --> 4966.74] right, -[4967.04 --> 4969.54] think and operate -[4969.54 --> 4970.28] out of this way. -[4970.68 --> 4971.64] I'm convinced, -[4971.82 --> 4972.10] actually, -[4972.22 --> 4973.80] that one of the reasons -[4973.80 --> 4974.80] that so many -[4974.80 --> 4976.34] people in -[4976.34 --> 4977.14] today's world -[4977.14 --> 4977.82] are leaving -[4977.82 --> 4978.60] church or -[4978.60 --> 4979.46] leaving Christianity -[4979.46 --> 4980.34] that one of the -[4980.34 --> 4980.92] reasons that -[4980.92 --> 4982.06] the demographic -[4982.06 --> 4983.12] category of -[4983.12 --> 4983.78] nuns, -[4983.78 --> 4985.54] N-O-N-E-S, -[4985.62 --> 4985.96] that it's people -[4985.96 --> 4986.50] who profess -[4986.50 --> 4987.48] no religious -[4987.48 --> 4987.92] belief, -[4988.34 --> 4989.08] that that demographic -[4989.08 --> 4990.28] category is climbing -[4990.28 --> 4991.64] in the world -[4991.64 --> 4992.86] today is because -[4992.86 --> 4994.30] all they ever knew -[4994.30 --> 4995.36] or all they ever -[4995.36 --> 4996.28] thought about God -[4996.28 --> 4997.26] was actually a -[4997.26 --> 4998.02] Tinkerbell God -[4998.02 --> 4999.90] or a Neil Gaiman -[4999.90 --> 5000.32] God -[5000.32 --> 5001.80] or a -[5001.80 --> 5002.30] genie -[5002.30 --> 5002.84] God. -[5003.80 --> 5004.66] Right? -[5004.72 --> 5005.78] And when belief -[5005.78 --> 5006.74] in God -[5006.74 --> 5007.66] is required -[5007.66 --> 5008.56] for God -[5008.56 --> 5009.56] to exist, -[5010.00 --> 5011.22] all of a sudden, -[5011.36 --> 5012.08] if you have doubts -[5012.08 --> 5012.90] or if you have -[5012.90 --> 5013.48] questions, -[5013.96 --> 5014.08] right, -[5014.12 --> 5014.76] these aren't just -[5014.76 --> 5015.98] opportunities to grow. -[5016.36 --> 5017.08] This becomes an -[5017.08 --> 5018.34] existential crisis -[5018.34 --> 5020.36] because God's not -[5020.36 --> 5020.84] even real. -[5022.44 --> 5022.62] Right? -[5022.66 --> 5023.66] When your commitment -[5023.66 --> 5024.28] to God -[5024.28 --> 5025.66] is determined -[5025.66 --> 5026.72] by what you give -[5026.72 --> 5027.74] attention to -[5027.74 --> 5028.76] or what you give -[5028.76 --> 5029.68] your time to, -[5030.18 --> 5031.62] you quickly find -[5031.62 --> 5033.00] that the distractions -[5033.00 --> 5034.18] and the things -[5034.18 --> 5034.88] of this world -[5034.88 --> 5035.38] have a really -[5035.38 --> 5036.40] strong allure. -[5036.56 --> 5037.18] They have a pull -[5037.18 --> 5037.82] on your heart -[5037.82 --> 5038.98] and that allure, -[5039.14 --> 5039.84] no matter how many -[5039.84 --> 5041.20] times it ultimately -[5041.20 --> 5041.82] fails you, -[5041.88 --> 5042.64] it still proves -[5042.64 --> 5043.34] strong enough -[5043.34 --> 5044.08] over and over -[5044.08 --> 5044.70] and over again -[5044.70 --> 5045.26] to pull your -[5045.26 --> 5045.94] attention away, -[5046.20 --> 5046.98] to pull your time -[5046.98 --> 5047.32] away. -[5048.82 --> 5049.70] And so you lose -[5049.70 --> 5051.42] sight of the God -[5051.42 --> 5051.90] of the Bible -[5051.90 --> 5053.28] and then eventually -[5053.28 --> 5054.14] you have no time -[5054.14 --> 5054.64] for God. -[5055.00 --> 5055.48] You have no time -[5055.48 --> 5056.00] for church -[5056.00 --> 5056.70] or for the Bible -[5056.70 --> 5058.24] or for reading, -[5058.44 --> 5058.96] for praying. -[5060.34 --> 5061.00] And then lastly, -[5061.20 --> 5062.80] if we approach God -[5062.80 --> 5063.94] like a genie -[5063.94 --> 5064.70] from the bottle -[5064.70 --> 5065.86] where we ask Him -[5065.86 --> 5067.08] our wishes, -[5067.22 --> 5068.24] maybe we go through -[5068.24 --> 5069.34] the right motions -[5069.34 --> 5070.14] of being ready -[5070.14 --> 5070.76] to ask Him -[5070.76 --> 5071.38] or made ready -[5071.38 --> 5072.06] to ask Him -[5072.06 --> 5073.06] and then He -[5073.06 --> 5073.86] doesn't give them -[5073.86 --> 5074.46] to us. -[5074.94 --> 5075.52] I mean, -[5075.56 --> 5076.12] no matter how many -[5076.12 --> 5077.54] times we watch -[5077.54 --> 5078.48] Aladdin or see -[5078.48 --> 5079.20] other movies -[5079.20 --> 5080.48] with genies in it, -[5080.54 --> 5081.20] there are modern -[5081.20 --> 5082.24] parables that tell us -[5082.24 --> 5083.08] that asking wishes -[5083.08 --> 5083.90] is a complicated -[5083.90 --> 5085.26] matter because your -[5085.26 --> 5085.88] view is limited. -[5085.88 --> 5086.50] You can't see -[5086.50 --> 5087.06] the whole picture -[5087.06 --> 5087.66] and so something -[5087.66 --> 5088.58] always goes wrong. -[5088.80 --> 5089.48] No matter how many -[5089.48 --> 5090.52] times we see that, -[5090.86 --> 5091.62] when our prayers -[5091.62 --> 5092.74] don't go answered, -[5093.54 --> 5095.04] we think either -[5095.04 --> 5096.60] God didn't hear me, -[5097.42 --> 5098.52] God didn't care, -[5099.26 --> 5100.30] or God's not there. -[5102.94 --> 5104.02] Now all of these -[5104.02 --> 5105.42] modern approaches -[5105.42 --> 5106.54] to God, -[5107.72 --> 5108.72] and maybe you hear -[5108.72 --> 5109.22] them from people -[5109.22 --> 5109.82] who won't use -[5109.82 --> 5110.68] the name God -[5110.68 --> 5111.74] or the word God, -[5112.20 --> 5112.42] right? -[5112.46 --> 5113.02] Maybe you'll hear -[5113.02 --> 5113.82] people talk about -[5113.82 --> 5114.58] like putting it out -[5114.58 --> 5115.24] in the universe. -[5115.88 --> 5116.14] Right? -[5116.16 --> 5117.42] Or asking the universe -[5117.42 --> 5118.62] to give me something -[5118.62 --> 5119.12] in return. -[5119.22 --> 5119.90] Maybe they talk about -[5119.90 --> 5120.72] some sort of ultimate -[5120.72 --> 5121.58] reality. -[5122.08 --> 5123.30] All of these approaches, -[5124.00 --> 5125.10] to be clear, -[5125.18 --> 5125.92] are fundamentally -[5125.92 --> 5127.74] pagan or neo-pagan. -[5129.32 --> 5130.28] They're not Christian, -[5130.38 --> 5130.80] at least not -[5130.80 --> 5131.38] Christianity -[5131.38 --> 5132.02] or the Bible. -[5133.30 --> 5134.02] These approaches -[5134.02 --> 5136.08] are transactional. -[5137.04 --> 5138.02] They're not worshipful. -[5139.16 --> 5139.88] They're consumeristic, -[5140.98 --> 5142.28] not submissive -[5142.28 --> 5143.78] to who God is. -[5143.78 --> 5144.90] And they're rooted -[5144.90 --> 5146.04] in an idea of God -[5146.04 --> 5146.54] that says, -[5146.86 --> 5148.10] if God is real, -[5148.50 --> 5149.56] His ways -[5149.56 --> 5150.82] and His work -[5150.82 --> 5151.36] in the world -[5151.36 --> 5152.60] must be accessible -[5152.60 --> 5153.14] to me. -[5154.54 --> 5154.76] Right? -[5154.78 --> 5155.06] They're rooted -[5155.06 --> 5155.48] in an idea -[5155.48 --> 5155.78] that says, -[5155.96 --> 5156.88] if God is good, -[5156.94 --> 5158.02] it must be in ways -[5158.02 --> 5159.02] that I agree with. -[5160.14 --> 5161.12] Or that if God -[5161.12 --> 5162.38] is active in the world, -[5162.42 --> 5163.42] it must be in ways -[5163.42 --> 5164.38] known to me, -[5164.50 --> 5165.58] ways that I can understand. -[5165.58 --> 5167.64] And again, -[5169.34 --> 5170.90] few of us -[5170.90 --> 5171.64] here -[5171.64 --> 5173.00] this morning -[5173.00 --> 5174.34] would be so bold -[5174.34 --> 5175.58] to put it that clearly. -[5176.94 --> 5177.94] Few of us -[5177.94 --> 5179.16] have the self-awareness -[5179.16 --> 5179.96] to see -[5179.96 --> 5180.84] that we're operating -[5180.84 --> 5181.94] out of that kind of frame. -[5182.96 --> 5185.00] But most all of us, -[5185.64 --> 5187.04] myself first among us, -[5187.58 --> 5188.86] have done it -[5188.86 --> 5189.64] at one point or another. -[5189.64 --> 5191.74] especially, -[5192.44 --> 5193.66] especially when things -[5193.66 --> 5194.10] are hard. -[5194.66 --> 5195.62] Especially when we're -[5195.62 --> 5196.06] in the midst -[5196.06 --> 5197.04] of suffering. -[5198.84 --> 5199.42] So instead, -[5200.14 --> 5200.92] what does Paul -[5200.92 --> 5202.30] want us to see -[5202.30 --> 5203.46] and to know? -[5204.32 --> 5205.30] Instead of a -[5205.30 --> 5206.56] Tinkerbell approach -[5206.56 --> 5207.14] to God, -[5207.36 --> 5208.32] we are reminded -[5208.32 --> 5209.00] and encouraged -[5209.00 --> 5210.60] to see God's sovereignty -[5210.60 --> 5213.04] in and over the world. -[5214.34 --> 5214.46] Now, -[5214.56 --> 5214.90] sovereignty, -[5215.04 --> 5215.36] I get it. -[5215.38 --> 5215.86] It's one of those -[5215.86 --> 5216.62] church words, -[5216.70 --> 5216.94] really, -[5217.18 --> 5218.06] that you might not -[5218.06 --> 5219.04] be familiar with. -[5219.04 --> 5220.34] But in the word -[5220.34 --> 5220.88] sovereignty, -[5221.22 --> 5221.78] you might hear -[5221.78 --> 5222.32] sovereign. -[5223.30 --> 5224.18] Sovereign refers -[5224.18 --> 5225.12] to a monarch -[5225.12 --> 5227.22] and to royal rule. -[5228.02 --> 5228.76] And so sovereignty -[5228.76 --> 5230.44] is the exercise -[5230.44 --> 5231.58] of the sovereign. -[5231.82 --> 5232.84] It's the exercise -[5232.84 --> 5234.74] of the royal rule. -[5235.44 --> 5236.06] And so when you're -[5236.06 --> 5236.52] talking about -[5236.52 --> 5237.66] God's sovereignty, -[5238.36 --> 5239.36] sovereignty is the -[5239.36 --> 5240.96] exercise of God's -[5240.96 --> 5242.04] royal rule. -[5242.20 --> 5243.26] It is his will -[5243.26 --> 5244.32] in the world. -[5244.58 --> 5245.68] And God's will -[5245.68 --> 5246.82] as sovereign -[5246.82 --> 5248.18] rules the world -[5248.18 --> 5249.02] and history -[5249.02 --> 5250.18] from the greatest -[5250.18 --> 5251.46] events right down -[5251.46 --> 5252.16] to the least. -[5252.80 --> 5254.18] God's will -[5254.18 --> 5254.94] and rule -[5254.94 --> 5256.22] upholds the universe -[5256.22 --> 5256.94] from the most -[5256.94 --> 5258.30] cosmic scope -[5258.30 --> 5259.68] to the tiniest -[5259.68 --> 5260.84] atomic detail. -[5262.44 --> 5264.40] And right there, -[5265.40 --> 5266.68] right there -[5266.68 --> 5268.86] is your confidence. -[5269.82 --> 5270.58] Right there -[5270.58 --> 5272.26] is your hope. -[5273.02 --> 5273.44] Right here -[5273.44 --> 5274.56] is your hope -[5274.56 --> 5275.70] in times of trial -[5275.70 --> 5277.16] and suffering. -[5278.38 --> 5279.18] Because if God -[5279.18 --> 5279.88] is sovereign, -[5280.06 --> 5280.72] and I believe -[5280.72 --> 5281.48] that he is, -[5281.82 --> 5283.04] if God is sovereign, -[5283.18 --> 5283.86] then whatever you -[5283.86 --> 5284.84] believe about him -[5284.84 --> 5285.42] or don't, -[5285.96 --> 5286.84] whatever you feel -[5286.84 --> 5287.58] towards him -[5287.58 --> 5288.36] or don't, -[5288.58 --> 5289.30] whatever attention -[5289.30 --> 5289.88] or time -[5289.88 --> 5290.46] or worship -[5290.46 --> 5291.44] you give him -[5291.44 --> 5292.22] or don't, -[5292.50 --> 5293.46] he doesn't need -[5293.46 --> 5294.48] any of it -[5294.48 --> 5295.50] for him -[5295.50 --> 5296.40] to be -[5296.40 --> 5297.54] for you. -[5298.38 --> 5299.44] For him to be -[5299.44 --> 5300.86] working on your behalf. -[5301.34 --> 5301.92] For him to be -[5301.92 --> 5303.36] guiding all of history -[5303.36 --> 5304.76] to his ends, -[5305.12 --> 5305.86] his glory -[5305.86 --> 5306.84] and the glory -[5306.84 --> 5308.22] revealed to us. -[5308.38 --> 5309.44] That's the confidence -[5309.44 --> 5310.52] of verse 28 -[5310.52 --> 5311.92] of Romans 8. -[5312.28 --> 5313.18] We know -[5313.18 --> 5314.92] that in all things -[5314.92 --> 5315.76] God works -[5315.76 --> 5316.60] for the good -[5316.60 --> 5317.44] of those -[5317.44 --> 5318.72] who love him, -[5319.32 --> 5320.24] who have been called -[5320.24 --> 5321.82] according to his purpose. -[5323.44 --> 5324.46] I want us to see -[5324.46 --> 5325.22] a couple things -[5325.22 --> 5326.44] that we're going -[5326.44 --> 5327.20] to zero in on. -[5327.84 --> 5328.40] First, -[5329.40 --> 5331.08] we know -[5331.08 --> 5333.64] for Paul -[5333.64 --> 5334.78] and for Christians, -[5335.34 --> 5336.42] this is something -[5336.42 --> 5338.12] we know. -[5339.32 --> 5339.50] Now, -[5339.52 --> 5340.04] in the Bible, -[5340.78 --> 5341.22] belief -[5341.22 --> 5342.52] and knowledge, -[5343.32 --> 5343.70] faith -[5343.70 --> 5344.82] and knowing -[5344.82 --> 5346.32] are not -[5346.32 --> 5347.54] put in opposition -[5347.54 --> 5348.30] to each other. -[5349.42 --> 5350.80] That's a modern invention. -[5351.66 --> 5351.78] Right? -[5351.82 --> 5352.70] The sort of dichotomy -[5352.70 --> 5353.18] that exists -[5353.18 --> 5353.90] between faith -[5353.90 --> 5354.90] and science -[5354.90 --> 5356.06] as ways of knowing -[5356.06 --> 5356.88] in the world today -[5356.88 --> 5357.92] does not exist -[5357.92 --> 5358.58] in the Bible. -[5358.58 --> 5360.02] And so, -[5360.30 --> 5360.62] yes, -[5360.80 --> 5361.52] by faith -[5361.52 --> 5362.58] we believe. -[5362.72 --> 5362.80] Right? -[5362.84 --> 5363.52] We know -[5363.52 --> 5364.52] that God works -[5364.52 --> 5365.16] all things -[5365.16 --> 5365.86] for good. -[5365.94 --> 5366.52] All things. -[5367.42 --> 5368.46] But the bigger point -[5368.46 --> 5369.32] there is that -[5369.32 --> 5370.88] you're believing -[5370.88 --> 5371.74] that, -[5371.96 --> 5373.20] you're knowing, -[5373.36 --> 5373.64] right, -[5373.90 --> 5375.84] that isn't required -[5375.84 --> 5377.86] for it to be true. -[5379.14 --> 5380.18] Does that make sense? -[5381.08 --> 5381.90] Am I being clear -[5381.90 --> 5382.74] on that? -[5382.80 --> 5382.92] Right? -[5382.98 --> 5383.78] You can know -[5383.78 --> 5384.46] that it's true -[5384.46 --> 5385.24] even when you don't -[5385.24 --> 5385.94] believe it's true. -[5387.96 --> 5388.36] Right? -[5388.38 --> 5388.94] It's true -[5388.94 --> 5391.22] because of who God is, -[5392.02 --> 5393.16] not because of what -[5393.16 --> 5395.20] you may or may not feel. -[5396.96 --> 5397.20] Now, -[5398.06 --> 5403.20] I need you to hear -[5403.20 --> 5406.34] how immeasurably -[5406.34 --> 5407.14] comforting -[5407.14 --> 5408.62] that is. -[5410.68 --> 5410.88] Right? -[5410.88 --> 5412.04] The truth is -[5412.04 --> 5413.54] that even -[5413.54 --> 5414.98] when I cannot -[5414.98 --> 5415.86] believe -[5415.86 --> 5417.26] that God -[5417.26 --> 5417.90] is with me, -[5418.16 --> 5418.84] even when -[5418.84 --> 5419.62] the darkness -[5419.62 --> 5421.26] is so overwhelming -[5421.26 --> 5422.32] I can't see -[5422.32 --> 5422.92] anything else, -[5423.20 --> 5423.90] even when -[5423.90 --> 5425.00] the waves -[5425.00 --> 5425.70] and the breakers -[5425.70 --> 5426.36] are crashing -[5426.36 --> 5427.04] over me, -[5427.38 --> 5427.98] even when -[5427.98 --> 5429.42] it is physically -[5429.42 --> 5430.50] impossible -[5430.50 --> 5431.76] for me to believe -[5431.76 --> 5433.04] that God is here -[5433.04 --> 5433.62] and that God -[5433.62 --> 5434.14] is good, -[5434.44 --> 5435.54] He is here -[5435.54 --> 5436.90] and He is good. -[5436.90 --> 5440.58] It is true -[5440.58 --> 5441.64] no matter -[5441.64 --> 5442.56] what -[5442.56 --> 5443.90] is going on. -[5450.20 --> 5450.98] Precisely -[5450.98 --> 5451.98] when you can't -[5451.98 --> 5453.42] see Him -[5453.42 --> 5455.74] is when you need -[5455.74 --> 5456.46] Him the most -[5456.46 --> 5458.40] and you can -[5458.40 --> 5459.22] know -[5459.22 --> 5460.50] that He -[5460.50 --> 5461.72] is -[5461.72 --> 5462.68] there. -[5462.68 --> 5462.78] There. -[5462.78 --> 5467.36] Second, -[5468.14 --> 5468.88] we know -[5468.88 --> 5469.60] that in -[5469.60 --> 5470.92] all things -[5470.92 --> 5472.00] God works -[5472.00 --> 5472.64] for the good -[5472.64 --> 5473.50] of those -[5473.50 --> 5474.60] who love Him. -[5474.72 --> 5475.78] In all -[5475.78 --> 5476.54] things. -[5477.36 --> 5477.54] Now, -[5477.58 --> 5477.94] I've said this -[5477.94 --> 5478.40] before, -[5479.10 --> 5480.00] but all things -[5480.00 --> 5480.90] means -[5480.90 --> 5482.96] all things. -[5484.26 --> 5484.44] Right? -[5484.50 --> 5485.18] Whatever your -[5485.18 --> 5486.18] present sufferings -[5486.18 --> 5486.58] are, -[5486.90 --> 5487.46] whatever you're -[5487.46 --> 5487.90] facing, -[5487.90 --> 5488.82] even the very -[5488.82 --> 5489.70] groaning of -[5489.70 --> 5490.26] creation, -[5490.60 --> 5490.96] whether it's -[5490.96 --> 5491.46] persecution -[5491.46 --> 5492.30] or pancreatic -[5492.30 --> 5492.66] cancer, -[5492.78 --> 5493.32] whether it's -[5493.32 --> 5493.80] death or -[5493.80 --> 5494.16] the death -[5494.16 --> 5494.46] of a -[5494.46 --> 5494.96] relationship, -[5495.40 --> 5496.38] whatever it -[5496.38 --> 5496.76] is, -[5496.92 --> 5497.44] somehow, -[5497.80 --> 5498.42] in some -[5498.42 --> 5498.76] way, -[5499.06 --> 5499.66] God will -[5499.66 --> 5500.22] work it -[5500.22 --> 5500.80] for your -[5500.80 --> 5501.74] good and -[5501.74 --> 5502.36] for His -[5502.36 --> 5502.82] glory. -[5506.90 --> 5507.50] Now, -[5507.54 --> 5508.06] I wish I could -[5508.06 --> 5508.72] stand here -[5508.72 --> 5509.78] and tell you -[5509.78 --> 5510.62] exactly how -[5510.62 --> 5511.82] He will do -[5511.82 --> 5512.14] that. -[5514.14 --> 5514.84] But I -[5514.84 --> 5515.20] can't. -[5516.74 --> 5517.56] But I know -[5517.56 --> 5518.06] that He will. -[5518.98 --> 5519.60] And I know -[5519.60 --> 5520.30] that He will -[5520.30 --> 5521.28] because He -[5521.28 --> 5521.98] did it -[5521.98 --> 5522.76] with the -[5522.76 --> 5523.48] death of -[5523.48 --> 5523.94] Jesus. -[5524.52 --> 5525.32] He did it -[5525.32 --> 5526.08] with the -[5526.08 --> 5526.80] death of -[5526.80 --> 5527.42] His own -[5527.42 --> 5527.88] Son, -[5528.22 --> 5528.86] God Himself. -[5529.44 --> 5530.30] God turned -[5530.30 --> 5530.88] the death -[5530.88 --> 5531.40] of God -[5531.40 --> 5532.28] into the -[5532.28 --> 5532.66] ultimate -[5532.66 --> 5533.16] good. -[5533.82 --> 5533.96] Right? -[5534.00 --> 5534.54] The ultimate -[5534.54 --> 5535.20] good, -[5535.30 --> 5535.92] the saving -[5535.92 --> 5537.16] of billions, -[5537.40 --> 5538.14] the restoring -[5538.14 --> 5539.32] of creation -[5539.32 --> 5539.74] to His -[5539.74 --> 5540.48] original plan -[5540.48 --> 5541.30] and design. -[5541.58 --> 5542.04] And if -[5542.04 --> 5542.98] He can do -[5542.98 --> 5544.08] that with -[5544.08 --> 5544.68] the greatest -[5544.68 --> 5545.50] evil the world -[5545.50 --> 5545.96] has ever -[5545.96 --> 5546.46] intended, -[5546.58 --> 5546.90] the death -[5546.90 --> 5547.32] of God -[5547.32 --> 5547.60] Himself, -[5547.60 --> 5549.26] surely He -[5549.26 --> 5549.82] can do it -[5549.82 --> 5550.34] with whatever -[5550.34 --> 5551.38] it is you -[5551.38 --> 5551.72] are in the -[5551.72 --> 5552.24] middle of. -[5552.74 --> 5553.38] Surely He -[5553.38 --> 5553.82] can do it -[5553.82 --> 5554.22] with whatever -[5554.22 --> 5555.28] struggle you -[5555.28 --> 5556.82] are facing. -[5559.10 --> 5559.74] That's what -[5559.74 --> 5560.54] it means for -[5560.54 --> 5561.96] God to be -[5561.96 --> 5562.90] sovereign. -[5565.90 --> 5566.56] Third thing -[5566.56 --> 5567.14] on this verse. -[5568.62 --> 5569.04] We know that -[5569.04 --> 5569.64] in all things -[5569.64 --> 5570.40] God works -[5570.40 --> 5571.64] for the good -[5571.64 --> 5572.94] of those -[5572.94 --> 5573.92] who love -[5573.92 --> 5574.12] Him. -[5574.86 --> 5575.56] For the good. -[5575.56 --> 5576.72] What does -[5576.72 --> 5577.08] that mean? -[5578.00 --> 5578.36] What does -[5578.36 --> 5578.72] that mean? -[5578.80 --> 5579.56] Because for -[5579.56 --> 5580.04] some of you -[5580.04 --> 5580.80] right now -[5580.80 --> 5582.08] it's awful -[5582.08 --> 5582.96] hard to see -[5582.96 --> 5583.46] how this -[5583.46 --> 5583.90] thing or -[5583.90 --> 5584.46] that thing -[5584.46 --> 5585.06] or whatever -[5585.06 --> 5585.48] it is -[5585.48 --> 5586.24] can be -[5586.24 --> 5587.40] for good. -[5590.70 --> 5591.40] To be -[5591.40 --> 5591.70] clear, -[5593.34 --> 5594.84] I don't -[5594.84 --> 5596.02] think that -[5596.02 --> 5596.84] what good -[5596.84 --> 5598.08] here is -[5598.08 --> 5598.40] or what -[5598.40 --> 5599.14] Paul means -[5599.14 --> 5599.74] by good -[5599.74 --> 5600.56] here is -[5600.56 --> 5601.62] material -[5601.62 --> 5602.54] things or -[5602.54 --> 5603.20] even things -[5603.20 --> 5603.66] that are -[5603.66 --> 5604.32] necessarily -[5604.32 --> 5605.30] available in -[5605.30 --> 5605.82] this life. -[5607.30 --> 5607.66] And so -[5607.66 --> 5608.42] I don't -[5608.42 --> 5609.08] think that -[5609.08 --> 5609.94] Job is -[5609.94 --> 5610.30] the right -[5610.30 --> 5610.92] example to -[5610.92 --> 5611.26] look to -[5611.26 --> 5611.52] here. -[5612.38 --> 5612.80] If you -[5612.80 --> 5613.14] know the -[5613.14 --> 5613.70] story of -[5613.70 --> 5614.08] Job, -[5614.80 --> 5615.40] he lost -[5615.40 --> 5615.90] everything. -[5616.50 --> 5617.14] He suffered -[5617.14 --> 5617.68] disease, -[5617.96 --> 5618.32] he suffered -[5618.32 --> 5618.78] poverty, -[5618.92 --> 5619.46] people around -[5619.46 --> 5620.04] him died, -[5620.36 --> 5621.12] he learned -[5621.12 --> 5622.04] his humility -[5622.04 --> 5622.94] before God -[5622.94 --> 5624.54] and then -[5624.54 --> 5625.80] his wealth -[5625.80 --> 5626.52] was restored -[5626.52 --> 5626.92] to him -[5626.92 --> 5627.98] in greater -[5627.98 --> 5628.68] measure than -[5628.68 --> 5629.08] before. -[5630.56 --> 5631.46] I don't -[5631.46 --> 5632.00] think that's -[5632.00 --> 5632.34] the right -[5632.34 --> 5633.04] frame of -[5633.04 --> 5633.54] reference or -[5633.54 --> 5633.86] that's the -[5633.86 --> 5634.44] right lens -[5634.44 --> 5635.14] to view -[5635.14 --> 5635.62] this through. -[5638.20 --> 5638.42] And so -[5638.42 --> 5638.76] if you're -[5638.76 --> 5640.28] hoping that -[5640.28 --> 5641.48] for whatever -[5641.48 --> 5642.48] suffering or -[5642.48 --> 5643.20] trial that you -[5643.20 --> 5643.70] are facing -[5643.70 --> 5644.12] right now, -[5644.14 --> 5644.44] if you're -[5644.44 --> 5645.18] hoping that -[5645.18 --> 5645.56] it will -[5645.56 --> 5646.22] yield a -[5646.22 --> 5646.56] greater -[5646.56 --> 5647.36] blessing from -[5647.36 --> 5648.00] God in -[5648.00 --> 5648.66] this life, -[5649.02 --> 5650.54] I can't -[5650.54 --> 5650.98] say that -[5650.98 --> 5651.34] it will. -[5652.72 --> 5653.12] Now I -[5653.12 --> 5653.48] pray that -[5653.48 --> 5653.94] it does, -[5654.84 --> 5655.08] right? -[5655.18 --> 5656.02] I want -[5656.02 --> 5656.56] that for -[5656.56 --> 5656.84] you, -[5657.48 --> 5658.82] but it's -[5658.82 --> 5659.10] not the -[5659.10 --> 5659.56] promise of -[5659.56 --> 5659.80] God. -[5659.80 --> 5662.54] instead, -[5663.54 --> 5664.92] I think -[5664.92 --> 5665.64] the connection -[5665.64 --> 5666.56] is between -[5666.56 --> 5667.70] good in -[5667.70 --> 5668.32] verse 28 -[5668.32 --> 5669.56] and the -[5669.56 --> 5670.14] next line, -[5670.32 --> 5671.34] being called -[5671.34 --> 5672.08] according to -[5672.08 --> 5672.72] his purpose. -[5674.00 --> 5674.42] And I -[5674.42 --> 5674.74] think that -[5674.74 --> 5675.26] the purpose -[5675.26 --> 5675.68] of his -[5675.68 --> 5676.70] calling is -[5676.70 --> 5677.06] written out -[5677.06 --> 5677.52] for us in -[5677.52 --> 5678.18] verse 29. -[5678.30 --> 5678.50] So with -[5678.50 --> 5678.86] your Bibles -[5678.86 --> 5679.20] open, -[5679.68 --> 5679.86] right? -[5679.96 --> 5680.44] For those -[5680.44 --> 5681.26] God foreknew, -[5681.42 --> 5681.88] he also -[5681.88 --> 5682.82] predestined to -[5682.82 --> 5683.06] what? -[5683.16 --> 5683.70] To be -[5683.70 --> 5685.10] conformed to -[5685.10 --> 5685.86] the image -[5685.86 --> 5687.26] of his -[5687.26 --> 5688.88] Son. -[5689.80 --> 5692.70] the good -[5692.70 --> 5693.88] that comes -[5693.88 --> 5694.62] from all -[5694.62 --> 5695.96] things being -[5695.96 --> 5696.56] turned, -[5696.98 --> 5697.12] right? -[5697.16 --> 5697.78] The good -[5697.78 --> 5698.46] that God -[5698.46 --> 5698.94] brings, -[5699.10 --> 5699.86] the purpose -[5699.86 --> 5700.74] of your -[5700.74 --> 5701.46] calling, -[5701.80 --> 5702.04] right, -[5702.10 --> 5702.72] to face -[5702.72 --> 5703.84] these present -[5703.84 --> 5704.46] sufferings, -[5704.54 --> 5705.00] whatever they -[5705.00 --> 5705.56] may be, -[5705.84 --> 5706.48] is so that -[5706.48 --> 5707.12] you might -[5707.12 --> 5708.20] be conformed, -[5708.24 --> 5708.60] is so that -[5708.60 --> 5709.06] you might -[5709.06 --> 5709.92] be transformed -[5709.92 --> 5710.96] into the -[5710.96 --> 5711.62] image of -[5711.62 --> 5712.28] Jesus. -[5712.58 --> 5713.54] Your good -[5713.54 --> 5714.40] is to be -[5714.40 --> 5715.14] made like -[5715.14 --> 5715.62] Jesus. -[5717.12 --> 5717.72] That's the -[5717.72 --> 5718.28] journey of -[5718.28 --> 5719.14] life and -[5719.14 --> 5719.58] faith. -[5719.80 --> 5720.48] That's the -[5720.48 --> 5721.10] path of -[5721.10 --> 5721.64] being a -[5721.64 --> 5721.94] Christian. -[5722.26 --> 5722.56] It is to -[5722.56 --> 5723.22] be transformed -[5723.22 --> 5723.98] into the -[5723.98 --> 5724.74] image of -[5724.74 --> 5725.04] Jesus. -[5725.20 --> 5725.48] It is to -[5725.48 --> 5725.98] be made -[5725.98 --> 5726.80] like him. -[5727.08 --> 5727.46] And all -[5727.46 --> 5728.06] throughout the -[5728.06 --> 5728.42] scriptures, -[5728.96 --> 5729.50] this is -[5729.50 --> 5730.24] made clear. -[5731.04 --> 5731.32] I'm going -[5731.32 --> 5731.54] to run -[5731.54 --> 5731.84] through a -[5731.84 --> 5732.24] bunch of -[5732.24 --> 5733.14] texts here, -[5733.24 --> 5733.60] but just -[5733.60 --> 5734.18] bear with -[5734.18 --> 5734.42] me. -[5735.38 --> 5736.18] 2 Corinthians -[5736.18 --> 5736.70] 5, -[5736.80 --> 5737.32] 17. -[5738.48 --> 5738.78] Therefore, -[5739.06 --> 5739.44] if anyone -[5739.44 --> 5740.90] is in -[5740.90 --> 5741.28] Christ, -[5741.42 --> 5741.74] the new -[5741.74 --> 5742.18] creation -[5742.18 --> 5742.72] has come, -[5742.98 --> 5743.50] the old -[5743.50 --> 5744.04] is gone, -[5744.12 --> 5744.44] the new -[5744.44 --> 5744.92] is here. -[5745.72 --> 5746.24] Philippians -[5746.24 --> 5746.58] 3, -[5746.70 --> 5747.20] 21. -[5747.20 --> 5748.92] Jesus -[5748.92 --> 5749.52] Christ, -[5749.64 --> 5749.84] who, -[5750.00 --> 5750.26] by the -[5750.26 --> 5750.86] power that -[5750.86 --> 5751.54] enabled him -[5751.54 --> 5752.24] to bring -[5752.24 --> 5753.02] everything under -[5753.02 --> 5753.72] his control, -[5753.90 --> 5754.76] will transform -[5754.76 --> 5755.98] our lowly -[5755.98 --> 5756.78] bodies so that -[5756.78 --> 5757.44] they will be -[5757.44 --> 5758.18] like his -[5758.18 --> 5759.40] glorious body. -[5760.08 --> 5760.94] 1 Corinthians -[5760.94 --> 5762.14] 15, 49, -[5762.14 --> 5762.68] and just -[5762.68 --> 5763.12] as we -[5763.12 --> 5763.52] have been -[5763.52 --> 5764.06] born in -[5764.06 --> 5764.48] the image -[5764.48 --> 5765.04] of earthly -[5765.04 --> 5765.50] man, -[5765.78 --> 5766.52] so shall -[5766.52 --> 5767.10] we bear -[5767.10 --> 5767.80] the image -[5767.80 --> 5768.38] of the -[5768.38 --> 5768.82] heavenly -[5768.82 --> 5769.76] man. -[5770.72 --> 5771.36] 1 John -[5771.36 --> 5772.14] 3, 2. -[5772.60 --> 5772.78] Dear -[5772.78 --> 5773.28] friends, -[5773.46 --> 5773.92] now we -[5773.92 --> 5774.34] are children -[5774.34 --> 5774.90] of God, -[5775.00 --> 5775.44] and what -[5775.44 --> 5776.30] will be -[5776.30 --> 5776.82] has not -[5776.82 --> 5777.24] yet been -[5777.24 --> 5777.76] made known, -[5777.88 --> 5778.16] but we -[5778.16 --> 5778.68] know that -[5778.68 --> 5779.26] when Christ -[5779.26 --> 5779.78] appears, -[5779.98 --> 5780.50] we shall -[5780.50 --> 5781.14] be like -[5781.14 --> 5781.56] him, -[5781.98 --> 5782.44] for we -[5782.44 --> 5783.00] shall see -[5783.00 --> 5784.12] him as -[5784.12 --> 5785.40] he is. -[5785.46 --> 5785.74] And then -[5785.74 --> 5786.20] lastly, -[5786.36 --> 5786.68] although we -[5786.68 --> 5787.04] could keep -[5787.04 --> 5787.38] going, -[5787.52 --> 5788.18] 2 Corinthians -[5788.18 --> 5789.50] 3, 18. -[5789.50 --> 5790.20] And we -[5790.20 --> 5790.78] all, -[5791.06 --> 5791.68] who with -[5791.68 --> 5792.36] unveiled -[5792.36 --> 5792.96] faces -[5792.96 --> 5793.76] contemplate -[5793.76 --> 5794.22] the Lord's -[5794.22 --> 5794.52] glory, -[5794.78 --> 5795.34] are being -[5795.34 --> 5796.08] transformed -[5796.08 --> 5797.58] into his -[5797.58 --> 5798.48] image with -[5798.48 --> 5799.78] ever-increasing -[5799.78 --> 5801.02] glory which -[5801.02 --> 5802.00] comes from -[5802.00 --> 5802.52] the Lord -[5802.52 --> 5803.26] who is -[5803.26 --> 5804.24] the Spirit. -[5805.02 --> 5806.32] This is -[5806.32 --> 5807.12] the journey -[5807.12 --> 5808.60] of faith. -[5808.76 --> 5809.36] This is -[5809.36 --> 5809.94] the path -[5809.94 --> 5810.78] that God -[5810.78 --> 5811.44] puts us -[5811.44 --> 5812.18] on to be -[5812.18 --> 5812.66] transformed -[5812.66 --> 5813.38] like his -[5813.38 --> 5813.74] Son, -[5814.06 --> 5814.36] to be -[5814.36 --> 5815.10] glorified. -[5816.28 --> 5816.66] Now this -[5816.66 --> 5817.58] section of -[5817.58 --> 5818.02] text that -[5818.02 --> 5818.32] we read -[5818.32 --> 5819.30] in Romans -[5819.30 --> 5820.70] 8 begins -[5820.70 --> 5821.06] with the -[5821.06 --> 5821.40] line, -[5821.86 --> 5822.54] I consider -[5822.54 --> 5822.98] that our -[5822.98 --> 5823.34] present -[5823.34 --> 5823.98] sufferings, -[5824.00 --> 5824.28] this is -[5824.28 --> 5824.92] verse 18, -[5825.10 --> 5825.48] are not -[5825.48 --> 5826.26] worth comparing -[5826.26 --> 5826.78] with the -[5826.78 --> 5827.98] glory that -[5827.98 --> 5828.40] will be -[5828.40 --> 5829.80] revealed in -[5829.80 --> 5830.08] us. -[5830.14 --> 5830.38] And then -[5830.38 --> 5831.02] this immediate -[5831.02 --> 5832.10] section ends -[5832.10 --> 5833.18] with the -[5833.18 --> 5833.82] line, -[5833.92 --> 5834.18] with it -[5834.18 --> 5834.90] mapped out -[5834.90 --> 5835.50] for us, -[5835.56 --> 5836.18] this journey -[5836.18 --> 5836.70] in verse -[5836.70 --> 5837.28] 29, -[5837.80 --> 5838.20] that those -[5838.20 --> 5838.98] God foreknew, -[5839.16 --> 5839.92] he predestined -[5839.92 --> 5840.24] to be -[5840.24 --> 5841.00] conformed into -[5841.00 --> 5841.54] the image -[5841.54 --> 5841.92] of his -[5841.92 --> 5842.20] Son. -[5842.38 --> 5842.82] Those he -[5842.82 --> 5843.52] predestined, -[5843.68 --> 5844.22] he also -[5844.22 --> 5844.66] called. -[5844.78 --> 5845.08] Those he -[5845.08 --> 5845.44] called, -[5845.54 --> 5845.88] he also -[5845.88 --> 5846.40] justified. -[5846.86 --> 5847.26] Those he -[5847.26 --> 5847.84] justified, -[5848.20 --> 5848.82] he also -[5848.82 --> 5850.26] glorified. -[5851.66 --> 5852.26] This, -[5852.50 --> 5852.70] then, -[5852.76 --> 5853.40] is God's -[5853.40 --> 5854.80] promise for -[5854.80 --> 5855.34] you today, -[5856.18 --> 5857.02] that by his -[5857.02 --> 5857.44] grace, -[5857.82 --> 5858.32] before the -[5858.32 --> 5859.38] foundation of -[5859.38 --> 5859.98] the world, -[5860.32 --> 5860.96] before you -[5860.96 --> 5861.54] were formed -[5861.54 --> 5861.92] in your -[5861.92 --> 5862.74] mother's -[5862.74 --> 5863.02] womb, -[5863.28 --> 5863.86] he knew -[5863.86 --> 5864.78] you by -[5864.78 --> 5865.46] name. -[5867.28 --> 5867.68] And it's -[5867.68 --> 5868.22] not enough -[5868.22 --> 5868.58] for this -[5868.58 --> 5869.00] God just -[5869.00 --> 5869.78] to know -[5869.78 --> 5870.14] you, -[5870.80 --> 5870.96] right? -[5871.00 --> 5871.68] His knowledge -[5871.68 --> 5872.40] of you -[5872.40 --> 5873.26] moved him -[5873.26 --> 5874.64] to predestine -[5874.64 --> 5874.94] you. -[5875.18 --> 5875.64] Now I get -[5875.64 --> 5875.82] it, -[5875.82 --> 5876.78] that is -[5876.78 --> 5877.24] a loaded -[5877.24 --> 5878.00] term for -[5878.00 --> 5878.20] many -[5878.20 --> 5878.56] people. -[5880.50 --> 5881.44] But it's -[5881.44 --> 5881.98] a necessary -[5881.98 --> 5882.60] term. -[5884.58 --> 5885.64] It is a -[5885.64 --> 5886.20] necessary -[5886.20 --> 5887.86] action of -[5887.86 --> 5888.20] God. -[5889.08 --> 5889.46] To be -[5889.46 --> 5890.18] predestined -[5890.18 --> 5890.78] means that -[5890.78 --> 5891.58] God takes -[5891.58 --> 5892.92] you from -[5892.92 --> 5894.32] death to -[5894.32 --> 5894.76] life. -[5895.40 --> 5895.84] It means -[5895.84 --> 5896.16] that God -[5896.16 --> 5896.72] has called -[5896.72 --> 5897.54] you with -[5897.54 --> 5898.30] his unconditional -[5898.30 --> 5898.92] love and -[5898.92 --> 5899.70] has transformed -[5899.70 --> 5900.04] you, -[5900.34 --> 5900.78] taking you -[5900.78 --> 5901.22] out of -[5901.22 --> 5902.14] darkness and -[5902.14 --> 5902.66] bringing you -[5902.66 --> 5903.22] into light. -[5903.22 --> 5903.90] for God -[5903.90 --> 5904.94] to predestine -[5904.94 --> 5905.80] is required -[5905.80 --> 5906.88] because we -[5906.88 --> 5907.52] are dead -[5907.52 --> 5907.86] in our -[5907.86 --> 5908.52] transgressions -[5908.52 --> 5908.94] and sins. -[5909.06 --> 5909.86] That's earlier -[5909.86 --> 5910.40] in Romans. -[5910.46 --> 5910.94] We spent a lot -[5910.94 --> 5911.24] of time -[5911.24 --> 5911.46] there. -[5913.40 --> 5913.78] And let me -[5913.78 --> 5914.30] ask you, -[5914.86 --> 5916.44] what can a -[5916.44 --> 5916.98] dead person -[5916.98 --> 5917.26] do? -[5920.62 --> 5921.10] Nothing. -[5922.62 --> 5923.28] That's the -[5923.28 --> 5923.64] point. -[5924.90 --> 5925.12] Right? -[5925.16 --> 5925.56] There is no -[5925.56 --> 5926.32] belief that -[5926.32 --> 5926.86] will raise -[5926.86 --> 5927.14] you. -[5927.80 --> 5928.48] There is no -[5928.48 --> 5929.82] crowd that -[5929.82 --> 5930.32] will clap -[5930.32 --> 5931.20] you back -[5931.20 --> 5932.36] into life. -[5932.36 --> 5933.56] The only -[5933.56 --> 5934.04] thing, -[5934.32 --> 5934.70] the only -[5934.70 --> 5935.26] one that -[5935.26 --> 5935.56] can do -[5935.56 --> 5935.96] it is the -[5935.96 --> 5936.60] work and -[5936.60 --> 5937.02] the will -[5937.02 --> 5937.72] of God. -[5939.00 --> 5939.48] And those -[5939.48 --> 5940.18] God foreknew -[5940.18 --> 5941.28] he also -[5941.28 --> 5942.34] predestined. -[5942.42 --> 5942.68] And those -[5942.68 --> 5943.50] he predestined -[5943.50 --> 5944.02] he also -[5944.02 --> 5944.76] called. -[5944.90 --> 5945.42] The call -[5945.42 --> 5945.96] of God, -[5946.20 --> 5946.58] brothers and -[5946.58 --> 5946.82] sisters, -[5946.92 --> 5947.18] is the -[5947.18 --> 5947.80] voice of -[5947.80 --> 5948.88] God speaking -[5948.88 --> 5949.54] out over -[5949.54 --> 5949.92] you and -[5949.92 --> 5950.80] raising you -[5950.80 --> 5951.58] up out -[5951.58 --> 5952.02] of death. -[5952.10 --> 5952.52] The call -[5952.52 --> 5952.94] of God -[5952.94 --> 5953.24] is the -[5953.24 --> 5953.94] work of -[5953.94 --> 5954.60] his spirit -[5954.60 --> 5955.44] making you -[5955.44 --> 5955.92] new. -[5956.02 --> 5956.42] The call -[5956.42 --> 5956.88] of God -[5956.88 --> 5957.74] is regeneration, -[5958.46 --> 5959.16] new life -[5959.16 --> 5960.04] taking place -[5960.04 --> 5960.98] in your -[5960.98 --> 5961.58] life, -[5961.68 --> 5962.14] taking your -[5962.14 --> 5962.50] heart of -[5962.50 --> 5963.22] stone and -[5963.22 --> 5963.98] turning it -[5963.98 --> 5964.72] into a -[5964.72 --> 5965.08] heart of -[5965.08 --> 5965.54] flesh. -[5966.90 --> 5967.50] And whoever -[5967.50 --> 5968.02] the Lord -[5968.02 --> 5968.62] our God -[5968.62 --> 5969.28] calls, -[5969.64 --> 5971.12] he justifies. -[5971.94 --> 5972.24] That is, -[5972.30 --> 5972.86] God's call -[5972.86 --> 5973.46] is effective. -[5974.42 --> 5974.94] He does -[5974.94 --> 5975.30] what he -[5975.30 --> 5976.24] will do. -[5977.36 --> 5977.94] God's word -[5977.94 --> 5978.68] is powerful. -[5979.16 --> 5979.76] By his word -[5979.76 --> 5980.46] he created -[5980.46 --> 5981.04] the world. -[5981.34 --> 5981.88] His word -[5981.88 --> 5982.60] then entered -[5982.60 --> 5983.10] the world -[5983.10 --> 5983.92] in Jesus -[5983.92 --> 5984.70] and his -[5984.70 --> 5985.34] word now -[5985.34 --> 5986.50] calls us -[5986.50 --> 5987.58] to newness -[5987.58 --> 5988.16] of life -[5988.16 --> 5989.50] in him -[5989.50 --> 5990.36] and through -[5990.36 --> 5991.34] him. -[5992.14 --> 5993.68] And this -[5993.68 --> 5994.98] is God's -[5994.98 --> 5995.98] promise. -[5996.78 --> 5997.26] That those -[5997.26 --> 5998.26] he justifies -[5998.26 --> 5999.66] he also -[5999.66 --> 6000.48] glorifies. -[6001.92 --> 6002.86] That he -[6002.86 --> 6003.56] will see -[6003.56 --> 6004.24] you through -[6004.24 --> 6004.64] to the -[6004.64 --> 6004.98] end. -[6005.78 --> 6006.44] That he -[6006.44 --> 6007.06] who began -[6007.06 --> 6007.38] a good -[6007.38 --> 6007.84] work in -[6007.84 --> 6008.30] you will -[6008.30 --> 6008.86] see it -[6008.86 --> 6009.24] through -[6009.24 --> 6009.70] to -[6009.70 --> 6010.16] completion. -[6011.06 --> 6011.84] That he -[6011.84 --> 6012.16] will -[6012.16 --> 6013.30] preserve -[6013.30 --> 6014.04] you -[6014.04 --> 6014.78] even -[6014.78 --> 6015.56] as you -[6015.56 --> 6016.42] persevere -[6016.42 --> 6017.46] unto the -[6017.46 --> 6017.74] end. -[6018.74 --> 6019.64] He does -[6019.64 --> 6019.84] it. -[6019.84 --> 6021.04] he -[6021.04 --> 6021.34] is -[6021.34 --> 6021.66] doing -[6021.66 --> 6022.00] it -[6022.00 --> 6022.48] and -[6022.48 --> 6022.66] he -[6022.66 --> 6022.86] will -[6022.86 --> 6023.32] continue -[6023.32 --> 6023.60] to -[6023.60 --> 6023.80] do -[6023.80 --> 6024.02] it -[6024.02 --> 6024.64] and -[6024.64 --> 6024.84] he -[6024.84 --> 6025.14] will -[6025.14 --> 6025.84] finish -[6025.84 --> 6026.62] it -[6026.62 --> 6027.40] in -[6027.40 --> 6027.66] you. -[6028.66 --> 6029.50] No matter -[6029.50 --> 6029.90] how you -[6029.90 --> 6030.40] feel -[6030.40 --> 6030.88] in the -[6030.88 --> 6031.22] moment, -[6032.06 --> 6032.52] no matter -[6032.52 --> 6032.84] what you -[6032.84 --> 6033.36] may or -[6033.36 --> 6033.74] may not -[6033.74 --> 6034.24] believe -[6034.24 --> 6034.64] about -[6034.64 --> 6035.20] God -[6035.20 --> 6035.58] in the -[6035.58 --> 6036.02] moment, -[6036.72 --> 6037.14] God -[6037.14 --> 6038.06] is -[6038.06 --> 6039.04] sovereign. -[6040.32 --> 6041.08] And God's -[6041.08 --> 6041.48] sovereignty -[6041.48 --> 6042.44] is the -[6042.44 --> 6043.10] source of -[6043.10 --> 6043.68] our hope -[6043.68 --> 6045.18] and our -[6045.18 --> 6045.52] joy. -[6046.12 --> 6046.40] Amen? -[6047.40 --> 6048.22] Let's pray -[6048.22 --> 6048.54] together. -[6057.54 --> 6058.26] Holy, -[6058.58 --> 6059.38] almighty, -[6060.00 --> 6060.38] sovereign -[6060.38 --> 6061.46] God, -[6063.38 --> 6063.98] you, -[6064.24 --> 6065.66] you and -[6065.66 --> 6066.50] you alone -[6066.50 --> 6067.18] are the -[6067.18 --> 6067.84] source of -[6067.84 --> 6068.42] our hope -[6068.42 --> 6069.16] and our -[6069.16 --> 6070.04] joy in -[6070.04 --> 6070.62] the world. -[6071.66 --> 6072.50] You and -[6072.50 --> 6073.58] you alone -[6073.58 --> 6075.42] move in -[6075.42 --> 6076.44] us to -[6076.44 --> 6077.46] act and -[6077.46 --> 6078.00] to will -[6078.00 --> 6078.72] according to -[6078.72 --> 6079.34] your great -[6079.34 --> 6080.12] purposes. -[6081.38 --> 6082.32] And so, -[6082.58 --> 6083.12] Lord God, -[6083.20 --> 6083.88] we come -[6083.88 --> 6084.62] to you -[6084.62 --> 6086.36] asking -[6086.36 --> 6087.82] that you -[6087.82 --> 6088.58] would turn -[6088.58 --> 6089.94] all these -[6089.94 --> 6090.66] things, -[6091.40 --> 6092.14] whatever they -[6092.14 --> 6092.58] may be, -[6094.44 --> 6094.72] that you -[6094.72 --> 6095.02] would turn -[6095.02 --> 6095.26] them for -[6095.26 --> 6095.48] good. -[6097.06 --> 6097.82] Asking, -[6098.02 --> 6098.38] Lord God, -[6098.42 --> 6099.16] that you -[6099.16 --> 6100.00] would hear -[6100.00 --> 6101.16] our prayer -[6101.16 --> 6102.34] and by -[6102.34 --> 6103.50] it act -[6103.50 --> 6104.06] in the -[6104.06 --> 6104.76] world because -[6104.76 --> 6106.02] you are -[6106.02 --> 6106.42] sovereign. -[6107.98 --> 6108.26] And so, -[6108.38 --> 6108.74] to you, -[6108.86 --> 6109.36] we must -[6109.36 --> 6110.94] come because -[6110.94 --> 6111.52] you alone -[6111.52 --> 6112.46] could do -[6112.46 --> 6113.00] anything about -[6113.00 --> 6113.36] it. -[6115.44 --> 6116.26] And we -[6116.26 --> 6116.48] pray, -[6116.60 --> 6117.00] Lord God, -[6117.44 --> 6118.82] that you -[6118.82 --> 6119.66] would carry -[6119.66 --> 6120.94] us to -[6120.94 --> 6121.44] the end, -[6121.88 --> 6122.40] that you -[6122.40 --> 6123.38] would sustain -[6123.38 --> 6125.44] us right -[6125.44 --> 6127.00] through to -[6127.00 --> 6127.36] glory. -[6127.36 --> 6129.30] in Christ -[6129.30 --> 6129.84] Jesus, -[6130.36 --> 6131.12] we pray, -[6131.82 --> 6132.28] all God's -[6132.28 --> 6132.76] people said, -[6134.10 --> 6134.38] amen. -[6135.52 --> 6136.18] I'm going to -[6136.18 --> 6136.60] invite you to -[6136.60 --> 6137.72] stand and we -[6137.72 --> 6138.20] can receive -[6138.20 --> 6138.82] God's blessing -[6138.82 --> 6139.20] together. -[6139.78 --> 6140.40] Following the -[6140.40 --> 6140.72] blessing, -[6141.12 --> 6141.74] we will go -[6141.74 --> 6142.28] into our -[6142.28 --> 6143.20] last song. -[6143.98 --> 6144.38] Just a -[6144.38 --> 6144.72] reminder, -[6145.28 --> 6146.00] if you -[6146.00 --> 6146.74] would still -[6146.74 --> 6147.18] like to -[6147.18 --> 6147.92] receive prayer, -[6148.06 --> 6148.30] there are -[6148.30 --> 6149.02] people around -[6149.02 --> 6149.88] who have -[6149.88 --> 6150.82] those name -[6150.82 --> 6151.36] tags and -[6151.36 --> 6151.68] who are -[6151.68 --> 6153.04] available for -[6153.04 --> 6153.30] that. -[6154.08 --> 6154.66] Receive the -[6154.66 --> 6155.66] blessing of -[6155.66 --> 6156.02] our God. -[6156.02 --> 6156.08] God. -[6157.52 --> 6158.34] May God -[6158.34 --> 6158.84] go before -[6158.84 --> 6159.98] you to -[6159.98 --> 6160.46] lead you. -[6161.42 --> 6162.02] May God -[6162.02 --> 6162.60] go behind -[6162.60 --> 6163.08] you to -[6163.08 --> 6163.70] protect you. -[6164.42 --> 6164.88] May God -[6164.88 --> 6165.42] go beneath -[6165.42 --> 6165.90] you to -[6165.90 --> 6166.62] support you. -[6166.96 --> 6167.40] May God -[6167.40 --> 6168.06] go beside -[6168.06 --> 6168.90] you to -[6168.90 --> 6169.28] befriend -[6169.28 --> 6169.54] you. -[6170.34 --> 6171.00] Do not -[6171.00 --> 6172.54] be afraid. -[6173.46 --> 6174.06] Let the -[6174.06 --> 6174.68] blessing of -[6174.68 --> 6175.14] God come -[6175.14 --> 6175.54] upon you -[6175.54 --> 6175.74] today. -[6175.88 --> 6176.42] Do not -[6176.42 --> 6177.82] be afraid, -[6179.26 --> 6179.82] but go -[6179.82 --> 6181.36] in the -[6181.36 --> 6182.14] hope and -[6182.14 --> 6182.70] joy of -[6182.70 --> 6183.22] our sovereign -[6183.22 --> 6184.34] God to -[6184.34 --> 6185.40] love and -[6185.40 --> 6185.88] serve. -[6186.18 --> 6186.74] the braucht. -[6187.68 --> 6188.30] Amen. -[6188.46 --> 6189.40] 들어� również -[6189.40 --> 6190.50] worship our -[6190.50 --> 6190.96] son and -[6190.96 --> 6192.40] among the -[6192.40 --> 6193.52] name and -[6193.52 --> 6193.62] get to -[6193.62 --> 6193.94] the Lord. -[6193.94 --> 6194.52] Amen. -[6194.52 --> 6194.96] Amen. -[6195.12 --> 6195.26] Amen. -[6195.84 --> 6196.02] Amen. -[6204.10 --> 6204.74] Amen. -[6204.74 --> 6205.14] Amen. -[6205.14 --> 6205.70] Amen. -[6205.70 --> 6215.04] Amen. -[6215.04 --> 6215.82] Amen. -[6215.82 --> 6217.82] Oh -[6245.82 --> 6247.82] Oh -[6275.82 --> 6277.82] Oh -[6305.82 --> 6307.82] Oh -[6335.82 --> 6337.82] Oh -[6365.82 --> 6367.82] Oh -[6395.82 --> 6397.82] Oh -[6425.82 --> 6427.82] Oh -[6427.82 --> 6429.82] Oh -[6429.82 --> 6431.82] Oh -[6431.82 --> 6433.82] Oh -[6433.82 --> 6435.82] Oh -[6435.82 --> 6437.82] Oh -[6437.82 --> 6439.82] Oh -[6439.82 --> 6441.82] Oh -[6441.82 --> 6443.82] Oh -[6456.82 --> 6457.82] Oh -[6458.82 --> 6459.82] Oh -[6459.82 --> 6461.82] Oh -[6461.82 --> 6462.08] O -[6462.08 --> 6463.82] Oh -[6463.82 --> 6467.42] Oh -[6475.82 --> 6477.82] Oh -[6485.82 --> 6515.80] Thank you. -[6515.82 --> 6545.80] Thank you. -[6545.82 --> 6575.80] Thank you. -[6575.82 --> 6605.80] Thank you. -[6605.82 --> 6635.80] Thank you. -[6635.82 --> 6665.80] Thank you. -[6665.82 --> 6695.80] Thank you. -[6695.82 --> 6725.80] Thank you. -[6725.82 --> 6755.80] Thank you. -[6755.82 --> 6785.80] Thank you. -[6785.82 --> 6815.80] Thank you. -[6815.82 --> 6845.80] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 20 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 20 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0fd2d5c98fb59dce845a14503f695785af354dd7..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 20 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,88 +0,0 @@ -• Darkness and grave -• Call of a higher power, escaping death and sin -• Shouts of praise, celebration, and worship -• Themes of freedom, rescue, and salvation through another's sacrifice -• References to the cross, fire, and waters as symbols of redemption -• Confidence in being set free from sin and death, knowing that there is no other name but Jesus' -• Update and announcement from Chris -• Results of the Emanuel Food Challenge food drive on June 12 -• Nikki Lobert's live report from the winning district (district two) -• Presentation of prize to Mr. Frank Welping, winner of the food challenge -• Celebration and gratitude for participation in the food drive -• Congratulating District 2 on their achievement -• Announcing a new children's worship time coordinator position available -• Wishing happy Father's Day to fathers and acknowledging those who are missing or struggling with father figures -• Canceling "real talk" for this week due to school events -• Welcoming everyone to worship, led by Psalm 134 -• Worship and praise to Jesus -• Recognizing that everything is about God, not human worth or accomplishments -• The importance of surrendering daily to God and honoring Him -• A story and lesson from the book of Acts about Paul's experiences as a Christian in various situations -• Discussion of law enforcement and their role in keeping communities safe, referencing the RCMP building visited by Mr. Mike -• Police have to enforce laws, which may include putting people in jail -• The speaker shares a personal experience of being sent to a "timeout" spot as a child -• The story from Acts chapter 16 is shared about Paul and Silas being thrown into prison and using the opportunity to share their faith with the guard -• The importance of respecting authorities while not being ashamed to share one's faith -• Two young people will be professing their faith in Christ during the service -• Kiera shares her testimony of growing up in a Christian home and church community -• She expresses gratitude for her parents' influence on her faith journey -• Kiera mentions several experiences that have helped her grow in her faith, including mission trips and youth conferences -• Ethan Spoor shares his story of overcoming physical challenges with the help of God's love and support from his community -• Both speakers emphasize the importance of perseverance and trusting in God's presence in difficult times -• Ethan professes his faith and love for God -• A passage from Philippians 2 is read to emphasize the importance of humility, compassion, and serving others -• The pastor praises Ethan's character and encourages him to serve the church and Christ well -• Pastor Chris invites Kira up to continue the profession of faith -• Pastor Chris asks a series of four questions about faith, including accepting Jesus as savior and affirming union with Christ and his church -• Ethan responds positively to each question -• The pastor thanks everyone for being part of this moment in the community's life -• Welcome and communion -• Confession of faith by Ethan and Kira -• Promise of love, encouragement, and prayers from the congregation to Ethan and Kira -• Presentation of gifts and certificate -• Laying on of hands for blessings and prayer -• Prayer for Ethan and Kira's spiritual growth and faithfulness -• Celebration and worship song -• Recognition of God as a constant presence and source of strength -• Offerings for church budget and special offering for World Renew Canada -• Description of World Renew Canada's mission and partnerships -• Prayer for personal struggles, sin, and weakness -• Prayers for individuals in need (Ismay, Bob Viss, Marga Visscher) -• Thanks for music, worship teams, volunteers, and committees -• Prayer for Christian education and schools -• Langley Christian School's faithful work in teaching and educating students -• Prayers for graduates, fathers on Father's Day, and church members -• The concept of family defined by Jesus in Mark 3:31-35 -• Two opposing views of family: one that prioritizes family above all else, the other that sees family as restrictive to individual identity -• The tension between these two views and their implications for modern society and the church. -• The concept of family and its relationship to Jesus' teachings -• The Bible's view on marriage, family, and parenting -• Jesus redefining family beyond biological ties -• The tension between family obligations and following Jesus -• Jesus' words about family and discipleship in Mark 3:21-35 -• Family is the basis of social, economic, and religious life in ancient Jewish Palestine and Roman Empire -• The paterfamilias (head of household) held authority over all dependents and slaves -• In Jewish households, adult children remained under their father's authority until his death -• In 1st century AD Jewish culture, family was a central aspect of identity and status -• Gloria James's story illustrates how modern people often use fame or family connections to assert privilege -• Wrong ideas about family can lead people to prioritize sports over church community, marriage over faith, etc. -• The story of Perpetua and Felicitas highlights the conflict between loyalty to blood relatives and loyalty to God (family of faith) -• Definition of family is not about blood relation but about relationship with God -• Gospel redefines family as a community connected by faith in Jesus Christ -• Genetic family may be beautiful, but gospel family is bigger and more beautiful -• Obedience to God makes someone part of this new family -• Invitation to faith means inviting people into a new family and relationship with brothers and sisters -• Justification and sanctification are part of this new experience of family -• Jesus' love should be the overwhelming experience for those in this new family -• Prayers and blessings for guidance and protection -• Call to faith and discipleship as a family of believers -• Song and hymns expressing devotion and surrender -• Call to serve the Lord and love others -• References to God's care, provision, and leadership -• Invitations to receive spiritual gifts and empowerment -• Worship and praise anthems expressing themes of revival and awakening -• Praise and worship of God -• Expectation of great things to come -• Jesus as a source of comfort, hope, and strength in times of trouble and heartbreak -• Acknowledgement that everybody faces trials, temptation, fears, and sorrow but can lay burdens down with faith in Jesus -• Declaration of Jesus' presence and faithfulness, filling up the speaker's life and cup \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 20 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 20 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index acf12f5c8191bbc5cb346a870cf6dcd39f85a3a5..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 20 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1150 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.00] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 182.00] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 212.00] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 242.00] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 272.00] Thank you. -[272.00 --> 274.00] Thank you. -[274.00 --> 276.00] Thank you. -[276.00 --> 278.00] Thank you. -[278.00 --> 280.00] Thank you. -[280.00 --> 286.00] Thank you. -[286.00 --> 288.00] Thank you. -[288.00 --> 290.00] Thank you. -[290.00 --> 292.00] Thank you. -[292.00 --> 294.00] Thank you. -[294.00 --> 296.00] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 306.00] Thank you. -[306.00 --> 312.40] Out of the darkness into your glorious day. -[313.90 --> 321.30] You called my name and I ran out of that grave. -[323.30 --> 329.40] Out of the darkness into your glorious day. -[336.00 --> 365.98] Out of the darkness into your glorious day. -[366.00 --> 368.56] You were my healing. -[368.98 --> 371.26] Now your love is healing. -[371.52 --> 372.86] I'm breathing. -[373.34 --> 375.02] I have a future. -[375.56 --> 377.28] My eyes are open. -[377.72 --> 380.88] Cause when you called my name shining. -[381.76 --> 384.44] I ran out of that grave. -[386.82 --> 393.08] Out of the darkness into your glorious day. -[393.08 --> 401.86] You called my name and I ran out of that grave. -[403.86 --> 410.66] Out of the darkness into your glorious day. -[410.66 --> 413.54] Oh, come on! -[418.00 --> 418.94] Come on! -[418.94 --> 429.72] Oh, what a day -[429.72 --> 432.00] Oh, what a day -[432.00 --> 434.14] Oh, what a day -[434.14 --> 436.42] Oh, what a day -[436.42 --> 439.96] You call my name -[439.96 --> 442.50] I keep running out of that grave -[448.94 --> 452.38] 2017, let's hear it -[452.38 --> 454.06] The loudest shout you've got in you -[454.06 --> 455.06] Give it to us -[455.06 --> 455.38] Come on -[478.94 --> 494.72] There's a grace when the heart is under fire -[494.72 --> 500.94] Another way when the walls are closing in -[500.94 --> 507.24] And when I look at the space between -[507.24 --> 509.24] Where I used to be -[509.24 --> 510.66] And this reckoning -[510.66 --> 515.32] I know I will never be alone -[515.32 --> 519.38] There was another in the fire -[519.38 --> 522.90] Standing next to me -[522.90 --> 526.92] There was another in the waters -[526.92 --> 530.28] Holding back the seas -[530.28 --> 533.62] And should I ever need reminding -[533.62 --> 537.04] Of how I've been set free -[537.04 --> 540.76] There is a cross that bears the burden -[540.76 --> 544.14] Where another died for me -[544.14 --> 547.86] There is another in the fire -[560.28 --> 562.90] I know my death -[562.90 --> 562.92] I know my death -[562.92 --> 566.20] If I dip beneath the waters -[566.20 --> 573.18] I'm no longer a slave to my sin anymore -[573.18 --> 578.42] Should I fall in the space between -[578.42 --> 580.34] What would mean to me -[580.34 --> 581.82] And this reckoning -[581.82 --> 584.16] Either way -[584.16 --> 586.00] Either way I will bow to the things -[586.00 --> 587.40] Of this world -[587.40 --> 593.30] And I know I will never be alone -[593.30 --> 597.76] There is another in the fire -[597.76 --> 601.06] Standing next to me -[601.06 --> 605.28] There is another in the waters -[605.28 --> 608.42] Holding back the seas -[608.42 --> 611.76] And should I ever need reminding -[611.76 --> 615.10] The power set me free -[615.10 --> 616.52] There is another in the fire -[616.52 --> 618.52] There is another in the fire -[618.52 --> 620.86] There is another in the fire -[620.86 --> 623.28] There is another in the fire -[623.28 --> 625.28] There is another in the fire -[625.28 --> 629.30] Oh, did I ever need to reachyer -[629.30 --> 631.58] And some extra if I unite -[631.58 --> 633.42] And I can render and turn -[633.42 --> 634.28] Just like we've been set free -[634.28 --> 634.56] And going now -[634.56 --> 634.72] Clyde is to live -[634.72 --> 635.68] There is another in the fire -[635.68 --> 636.28] And I can see -[636.28 --> 636.96] It's a compromise -[636.96 --> 637.76] euch I am setting out -[637.76 --> 638.20] The power set me priority -[638.20 --> 638.46] God and protection -[638.46 --> 642.76] And gusta -[642.76 --> 647.54] I can definitely change -[647.54 --> 648.34] And your life -[648.34 --> 649.70] psprivile -[649.70 --> 650.70] Your life -[650.70 --> 651.44] Sam -[651.44 --> 651.64] Ah -[651.64 --> 652.70] You -[652.70 --> 656.64] I can see the light in the darkness -[656.64 --> 659.58] As the darkness miles to Him -[659.58 --> 663.84] I can hear the roar in the heavens -[663.84 --> 666.64] As the space between the west end -[666.64 --> 670.90] I can feel the crowd shaking beneath us -[670.90 --> 673.98] As the prison walls cave in -[673.98 --> 677.34] Nothing stands between us -[677.34 --> 681.70] Nothing stands between us -[682.70 --> 701.18] There is no other name but the name that is Jesus -[701.18 --> 707.84] He who was and still is and will be through it all -[707.84 --> 716.08] Good morning and welcome to church. -[716.36 --> 719.86] My name is Chris and thank you for joining with us this morning -[719.86 --> 722.08] either here in person or at home. -[723.16 --> 726.46] We're going to start this morning with a bit of an update and an announcement -[726.46 --> 730.54] and I think we've got a video that we're going to kick to in order to get that going. -[730.54 --> 749.02] Good morning and welcome to this morning's edition of the 10am Emanuel Emissions Committee News. -[749.18 --> 750.44] I'm your host Rebecca Pullman. -[751.06 --> 756.92] Our top story today is regarding the results of the exciting food drive that took place on June 12. -[756.92 --> 761.92] Live on location we have Nikki Lobert who has an exclusive interview with the winning district. -[762.42 --> 763.34] Nikki, over to you. -[763.88 --> 764.62] Thanks Rebecca. -[765.04 --> 769.14] I'm reporting live from the winning district elders house now. -[769.60 --> 771.04] You can see it right here behind me. -[771.40 --> 775.42] He doesn't know that we're here so we're going to go in and surprise him with the prize. -[775.76 --> 776.62] Come on and follow me. -[777.12 --> 777.44] Let's go. -[777.44 --> 800.34] All right, let's knock on the door and see if he answers. -[800.34 --> 800.44] Let's go. -[800.44 --> 800.50] Let's go. -[807.44 --> 808.44] Anybody home? -[810.72 --> 811.28] Maybe. -[813.10 --> 814.24] Knock again. -[816.00 --> 816.56] Hi. -[817.04 --> 817.36] Hello. -[817.86 --> 822.54] Hello, I'm here from the Emanuel Emissions Committee and I'm looking for a Mr. Frank Welping. -[822.76 --> 823.52] You are? -[823.80 --> 824.36] Okay. -[824.72 --> 825.36] Just a moment. -[826.12 --> 827.32] Mr. Frank Welping. -[827.54 --> 830.52] All right guys, it looks like the person we need is in the house. -[830.52 --> 835.40] Let's see if we can surprise him with our winning district prize. -[837.44 --> 841.42] All right. -[841.52 --> 841.92] Hello. -[842.62 --> 843.18] Hi Ruby. -[843.86 --> 844.26] Hi. -[845.72 --> 848.30] That's Isla, my special camera reporter. -[848.52 --> 849.54] Your special camera? -[849.54 --> 854.44] You are live on camera right now and I am here on behalf of the Emanuel Emissions Committee -[854.44 --> 860.72] News and we are here to present you, come on up prize presenter, as the winning district -[860.72 --> 863.24] from the Emanuel Food Challenge. -[863.96 --> 865.40] Go ahead and pass him his prize. -[865.54 --> 866.42] Thank you. -[866.42 --> 871.36] Now I did something as I made a special sign for the winning district and after I watched -[871.36 --> 875.88] the news report last week, it seemed fairly obvious that district six thought they were -[875.88 --> 876.12] winning. -[876.28 --> 879.04] So I missed and made the sign a little bit too soon. -[879.24 --> 880.08] Now it's upside down. -[881.16 --> 884.18] It says district six. -[884.18 --> 886.72] Well, I crossed that out and I put district two. -[886.72 --> 890.14] They are the official food drive champion. -[890.34 --> 890.96] So congratulations. -[891.32 --> 894.24] Do you have any words of celebration? -[894.78 --> 900.56] Well, the real winners are the food bank and we thank everybody who participated in it. -[900.62 --> 901.42] It was awesome. -[901.80 --> 903.00] It was great fun doing it. -[903.00 --> 908.64] And I really appreciated all the help and everything that was we received for the food bank. -[909.14 --> 909.82] Thank you. -[909.82 --> 910.70] All right. -[910.70 --> 911.58] There you have it folks. -[911.70 --> 912.86] We have district two winners. -[913.08 --> 917.56] You know who has your prize now and you can bug him to find out how you can take part in -[917.56 --> 917.78] that. -[918.18 --> 919.56] And we'll go back to you, Rebecca. -[919.78 --> 920.30] Thank you. -[921.28 --> 921.68] Wow. -[921.78 --> 922.38] Thank you, Nikki. -[922.38 --> 923.94] What an exciting competition. -[924.66 --> 929.42] Special thanks to all of those who contributed to the food bank through the food drive last -[929.42 --> 929.82] weekend. -[930.42 --> 934.40] We'll conclude our report today with a montage of the highlights of the food drive that took -[934.40 --> 935.38] place on June 12th. -[936.42 --> 938.60] Special thanks to everyone again for contributing. -[939.34 --> 941.34] Thank you for tuning into our newscast today. -[941.64 --> 944.92] I'm Rebecca Pullman and from all of those at IMC, have a great day. -[952.38 --> 966.44] We all start on the outside, the outside looking in. -[967.22 --> 969.54] This is where grace begins. -[972.24 --> 978.36] We were hungry, we were thirsty, with nothing left to give. -[979.14 --> 981.64] Oh, the shape that we were in. -[982.38 --> 983.42] We're hungry, we're hungry, we're hungry, we're hungry, we're hungry, we're hungry. -[983.42 --> 984.56] We're hungry, we're hungry, we're hungry, we're hungry, we're hungry, we're hungry, we're hungry. -[984.56 --> 999.82] And just when all hope seemed lost, love opened the door for us, he said, come to the table. -[1001.44 --> 1006.56] Come join the sinners who have been redeemed. -[1006.56 --> 1011.56] Take your place beside the Savior. -[1012.38 --> 1016.62] Sit down and be set free. -[1017.84 --> 1020.38] Come to the table. -[1020.38 --> 1035.06] Come meet this mighty crew of misfits. -[1035.06 --> 1037.70] These liars and these thieves. -[1037.70 --> 1040.80] There's no one unwelcome here. -[1040.80 --> 1046.94] And that sin and shame that you brought with you. -[1046.94 --> 1055.08] And so indeed, congratulations to District 2. -[1055.58 --> 1057.64] Just throwing that out there, but that's my district. -[1058.48 --> 1059.22] Good work. -[1060.22 --> 1065.82] Very excited to share the news with you, that update, and then also to participate as a community -[1065.82 --> 1067.74] in that event together. -[1067.88 --> 1071.72] It was a real blessing, not only for us here, but also for Langley Food Bank. -[1071.72 --> 1074.56] Also, just a note. -[1074.56 --> 1082.56] We will be looking for, are looking for, a children's worship time coordinator or a children's -[1082.56 --> 1084.32] worship time coordinator team. -[1084.48 --> 1089.46] Mrs. Nikki, who is currently doing that, has the opportunity to go back to school in the -[1089.46 --> 1089.72] fall. -[1089.92 --> 1092.72] And so she's going to pull back from some of those responsibilities. -[1093.02 --> 1097.54] And so we're looking for someone or a couple people to step into that responsibility. -[1097.54 --> 1101.50] And so if God's putting that on your heart, or if you're looking for a way to serve in the -[1101.50 --> 1105.50] church, we want to encourage you to prayerfully think about this and then to reach out either -[1105.50 --> 1110.12] to myself or Pastor Kevin or Mrs. Nikki, just to see what that might be like and how you might -[1110.12 --> 1113.48] be able to serve us in that time together. -[1114.86 --> 1119.92] Of course, if I haven't said it yet, I want to say happy Father's Day to all of you fathers. -[1120.88 --> 1123.00] Thank you for being here with us this morning. -[1123.00 --> 1128.04] I don't see any homemade ties or particularly new socks yet this morning. -[1128.40 --> 1131.58] And that's only because my kids weren't really awake when I left this morning. -[1131.60 --> 1133.66] So I haven't gotten my Father's Day gift either. -[1133.80 --> 1138.48] But thank you for you and for who you are in our fellowship. -[1138.68 --> 1144.92] And then also for those of you who are missing fathers or who have struggled relationships with -[1144.92 --> 1149.74] your fathers or who wish you could be fathers, know that our hearts and our prayers are with -[1149.74 --> 1155.52] you on this day as well, as these days can be particularly hard for those of us in that -[1155.52 --> 1156.00] opportunity. -[1157.52 --> 1164.76] And then lastly, just a note that there is no real talk, which is scheduled for Monday, -[1164.96 --> 1165.26] tomorrow. -[1165.66 --> 1166.56] That has been canceled. -[1167.32 --> 1168.52] There's just a whole lot going on. -[1168.58 --> 1171.38] It's the last week of school for many of our youth. -[1171.38 --> 1176.78] And so we want to say congratulations to you as coming to the last week and to teachers -[1176.78 --> 1177.80] and staff and schools. -[1177.94 --> 1178.94] Congratulations to you. -[1179.04 --> 1182.02] You've made it through June, which can be an awful time in school. -[1182.26 --> 1183.72] And so good work on that. -[1183.82 --> 1185.24] But there is no real talk. -[1185.34 --> 1186.12] That's the implication. -[1186.84 --> 1188.16] We're going to worship our God together. -[1188.24 --> 1192.50] And so where you are, I'm going to invite you to stand as we can receive God's greeting -[1192.50 --> 1193.42] together. -[1193.58 --> 1198.80] And so if it helps, you can take a posture of receipt, hands out, eyes lifted up as these -[1198.80 --> 1204.00] words of God are spoken over you and he draws you to himself in worship this morning. -[1205.52 --> 1212.76] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God, our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, -[1213.02 --> 1216.78] and our Savior through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[1217.96 --> 1218.36] Amen. -[1219.02 --> 1220.32] Let's worship God together this morning. -[1223.08 --> 1225.60] Good morning and welcome to worship this morning. -[1225.82 --> 1226.68] Happy Father's Day. -[1226.68 --> 1230.52] Our call to worship is from Psalm 134. -[1231.20 --> 1236.60] Come, bless the Lord, all you servants of the Lord, who stand by the night in the house -[1236.60 --> 1237.24] of the Lord. -[1237.82 --> 1240.44] Lift up your hands to the holy place and bless the Lord. -[1241.04 --> 1244.32] May the Lord bless you from Zion, he who made heaven and earth. -[1244.32 --> 1244.44] Amen. -[1244.44 --> 1244.54] Amen. -[1244.54 --> 1246.44] Amen. -[1246.44 --> 1247.44] Amen. -[1247.44 --> 1248.44] Amen. -[1248.44 --> 1248.94] Amen. -[1248.94 --> 1249.44] Amen. -[1249.44 --> 1250.44] Amen. -[1250.44 --> 1251.44] Amen. -[1251.44 --> 1252.44] Amen. -[1252.44 --> 1253.44] Amen. -[1253.44 --> 1253.50] Amen. -[1253.50 --> 1254.50] Amen. -[1254.50 --> 1254.58] Amen. -[1256.68 --> 1280.00] Amen. -[1280.00 --> 1280.92] Amen. -[1280.92 --> 1281.26] Amen. -[1285.26 --> 1285.78] Amen. -[1285.78 --> 1295.20] Oh, just to bring something that's at work that will bless your heart. -[1297.06 --> 1306.86] I'll bring you more than a song, for a song in its love is not what you have required. -[1306.86 --> 1320.82] You search much deeper within, through the way things appear, you're looking into my heart. -[1322.82 --> 1335.70] I'm coming back to the heart of worship, and it's all about you, it's all about you, Jesus. -[1335.70 --> 1348.86] I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made, and it's all about you, it's all about you, Jesus. -[1348.86 --> 1378.86] -[1378.86 --> 1392.06] I'll bring you more than a song, for a song in itself is not what you have required. -[1392.06 --> 1406.06] You search much deeper within, through the way things appear, you're looking into my heart. -[1406.06 --> 1420.06] I'm coming back to the heart of worship, and it's all about you, it's all about you, Jesus. -[1420.06 --> 1433.92] I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made, and it's all about you, it's all about you, Jesus. -[1433.92 --> 1447.12] I'm coming back to the heart of worship, and it's all about you, it's all about you, Jesus. -[1447.12 --> 1460.84] I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made, and it's all about you, it's all about you, Jesus. -[1460.84 --> 1490.82] I'm sorry, Lord, for the thing I've made, and it's all about you, Jesus. -[1490.82 --> 1497.82] The things we hold onto that we believe bring us worth, when truly it is all about you. -[1499.50 --> 1506.76] Jesus, bring us back to when we do, when what we do is because we are compelled in love of you, -[1507.76 --> 1513.92] in worship, in praise, and even when we are in a time of our life when we don't know how to praise you, -[1513.92 --> 1517.36] when our circumstances, our minds, our relationships are in turmoil. -[1517.72 --> 1522.76] Give us the faith to believe you are still good, and your promises still ring true. -[1523.92 --> 1526.76] This is our desire, to honor you, Lord. -[1526.92 --> 1530.64] Bring us to our knees when we forget to surrender every day to you. -[1531.90 --> 1533.58] In your name we pray, amen. -[1533.58 --> 1533.66] Amen. -[1533.66 --> 1563.64] piano plays softly -[1563.66 --> 1593.64] piano plays softly -[1593.66 --> 1595.66] piano plays softly -[1595.66 --> 1599.66] Lord, I give you my heart -[1600.18 --> 1602.66] I give you my soul -[1603.30 --> 1605.66] I live for you -[1606.52 --> 1609.66] Oh, Lord, every breath that I take -[1610.44 --> 1613.66] Every moment I'm awake -[1613.66 --> 1617.66] Lord, have your way in me -[1617.66 --> 1625.66] This is my desire -[1625.66 --> 1631.66] To honor you -[1631.66 --> 1635.78] Lord, with all the heart -[1635.78 --> 1637.66] I worship you -[1637.66 --> 1645.66] All I have within you -[1645.66 --> 1650.66] I give you praise -[1650.66 --> 1657.66] All that I adore is in you -[1657.66 --> 1664.66] Lord, I give you my heart -[1664.66 --> 1667.66] I give you my soul -[1667.66 --> 1671.66] I live for you alone -[1671.66 --> 1674.66] Every breath that I take -[1674.66 --> 1677.66] Every moment I'm awake -[1677.66 --> 1681.66] Lord, I love your way in me -[1681.66 --> 1684.66] Lord, I give you my heart -[1684.66 --> 1687.66] I give you my soul -[1687.66 --> 1691.66] I live for you alone -[1691.66 --> 1694.66] Every breath that I take -[1694.66 --> 1697.66] Every moment I'm awake -[1697.66 --> 1702.66] Lord, my glory in me -[1702.66 --> 1722.66] You could have -[1732.66 --> 1745.98] Hello, good morning and welcome to Kids' Corner. My name is Mr. Mike and I have the privilege -[1745.98 --> 1752.58] of sharing a story and a lesson with you today. But first, Happy Father's Day to all -[1752.58 --> 1758.22] the dads, the grandpas, the dad-like people in our lives. I hope you guys did something -[1758.22 --> 1763.44] special for them today or maybe you still have plans to do something special. Either way, -[1763.84 --> 1770.16] Happy Father's Day. Also, before we get into our lesson, let's go over our memory verse -[1770.16 --> 1775.20] this month. And that's going to be brought to us by some special helpers. So let's see -[1775.20 --> 1775.66] that now. -[1776.66 --> 1787.34] Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and -[1787.34 --> 1797.06] with all your strength, and the second is like it. Love your neighbor as yourself. There's -[1797.06 --> 1805.56] no commandment greater than these. Mark 12, verse 30 to 31. -[1808.14 --> 1814.32] Great job on that memory verse, guys. Thanks. So, okay, I don't know if you've noticed, but -[1814.32 --> 1819.26] I'm not in the church today. I'm here on location in front of this special building. -[1820.34 --> 1823.72] I don't know. Can you make out where I am? Can you guess? Maybe you've seen this place -[1823.72 --> 1831.40] before. Any guesses? That's right. I'm in front of the Langley RCMP building, the Langley -[1831.40 --> 1837.22] Police Station. Hey, how many of you have ever thought of becoming a policeman or a police -[1837.22 --> 1841.42] woman in your life? Put your hands up. Yeah? I've thought about it before. When I was a -[1841.42 --> 1845.44] kid, I thought, oh yeah, that would be a pretty cool job to have. What kind of things do the -[1845.44 --> 1851.94] police do? Can you think of any? They keep us really safe. And how is that? They enforce -[1851.94 --> 1858.50] laws. They make sure people drive the right speed, even though sometimes we don't. They -[1858.50 --> 1864.86] protect us. They keep our communities safe. All those wonderful things. It's quite a privilege -[1864.86 --> 1870.10] to live in Canada, isn't it? A place where our police force loves us and encourages us -[1870.10 --> 1876.86] and especially lets us be Christians. Let's us go to church. Let's us praise God. Let's -[1876.86 --> 1881.16] us do all those awesome things we can do on Sunday and throughout the rest of the week. -[1882.02 --> 1889.24] Well, hey, today's story and lesson comes from the book of Acts. And it's another story about -[1889.24 --> 1894.60] Paul. We've been learning about Paul in the last couple of weeks, I think, right? And he's -[1894.60 --> 1900.94] had some crazy, crazy experiences. And you know what? He didn't always have the privilege -[1900.94 --> 1910.86] of being in situations or places or with enforcement people that let him live out his faith and share -[1910.86 --> 1915.68] his love for God and share God's love for everybody else. -[1915.68 --> 1921.40] Okay, so I've just come inside so we can talk a little bit more about today's story about Paul. -[1922.60 --> 1927.66] And look where I find myself. Can you guess where I am? It's a bit confusing with our little fox -[1927.66 --> 1933.88] friend here, but I'm at the bottom of my staircase. That reminds me of a special spot. We were just -[1933.88 --> 1941.58] talking about the police and how they protect us. But what's another thing sometimes police have to do? -[1941.58 --> 1947.90] Sometimes when people get out of line, or they're not able to follow laws properly, they have to put -[1947.90 --> 1954.42] people in jail. That may be a hint of what today's story is a little is a bit about. And we've got our -[1954.42 --> 1960.38] friend Fox here kind of illustrating sometimes how hard that can be. And this spot on the staircase -[1960.38 --> 1966.24] kind of reminds me of something that maybe you've experienced. When I was growing up, we had a spot -[1966.24 --> 1973.30] called the timeout spot for times when we wouldn't finish our dinners, or when we wouldn't listen to -[1973.30 --> 1980.68] mom or dad properly. And we had to take some time out to think about what we've done. In some ways, -[1980.72 --> 1987.12] it's a little bit like jail. Have you ever had to be in a timeout? Or detention maybe at school? -[1987.94 --> 1993.40] And you know, it can make those moments feel even harder is when it feels like the punishment was not -[1993.40 --> 1999.04] fair or was not deserved. Right? I'm sure we've had those moments where there was misunderstandings. -[1999.98 --> 2006.86] And yet, we learn to still have to respect our authority and make the most of those moments. -[2007.40 --> 2014.92] So let's go to today's story. Let's see what happened to Paul and how God used him to make the most -[2014.92 --> 2017.32] of what seemed like not a great situation. -[2017.32 --> 2028.66] All right, so let's check out today's story. It comes from Acts chapter 16, verse 24 to 34. -[2030.40 --> 2036.86] Earthquake in prison. Some people did not like Paul and his friend Silas preaching about Jesus. -[2037.82 --> 2044.58] One day they were thrown into prison. But they were not worried. They knew God would take care of them. -[2044.58 --> 2054.50] That night, God sent an earthquake. It shook so hard that all the prison doors opened and all the -[2054.50 --> 2062.70] prisoners' chains fell off. The guard thought everyone had escaped. He was terrified. -[2062.70 --> 2076.12] Paul told the guard, do not worry. We are still here. The guard was amazed. He invited the two men to his house. -[2078.12 --> 2087.04] The guard and his family learned about Jesus and decided to follow him. The next day, Paul and Silas left to tell more people about Jesus. -[2087.04 --> 2093.24] What an incredible story, hey? So Paul and Silas were sharing about the love of God. -[2094.40 --> 2101.36] And the authorities did not agree. Or maybe they just didn't understand. But it got them thrown into prison. -[2101.36 --> 2112.18] And even a big earthquake came and shook the walls apart. And the jailer was freaked out because he thought all the prisoners would escape. -[2112.68 --> 2117.28] But Paul and Silas respected the decision that was made and stayed in prison. -[2118.22 --> 2123.18] And even because of it, they were able to share the love of God with the jailer. -[2123.18 --> 2131.74] And in the end, Paul and Silas were able to go free and continue sharing the story of God's love to all kinds of people. -[2132.92 --> 2137.52] And actually, I chose this shirt today specifically to go with this story. -[2137.98 --> 2142.48] You probably can't read what it says on there. It's designed kind of cool like. -[2142.66 --> 2146.30] But it's from a youth event and it says, unashamed. -[2146.92 --> 2149.28] Do you know what that word means? Kind of a big word. -[2149.28 --> 2156.28] But it means to not be embarrassed or to not hide something that you know you should be proud of. -[2156.56 --> 2160.28] Kind of like Paul and Silas, right? They were not ashamed of their faith. -[2160.36 --> 2162.74] They were not ashamed to share the love of God. -[2162.92 --> 2164.58] And we should be inspired to do the same. -[2165.00 --> 2169.34] We should be inspired to respect the decisions made sometimes for us. -[2169.70 --> 2175.88] But in that, not be ashamed of God's love for us and the story that he wants us to share. -[2176.08 --> 2179.16] So let's close in prayer and we'll pray about that very soon. -[2179.28 --> 2184.22] Heavenly Father, we thank you so much for this story. -[2184.42 --> 2189.00] We thank you so much that you stepped in and provided for Paul and Silas. -[2189.16 --> 2191.84] And that we can know that story and be encouraged by it. -[2192.20 --> 2194.04] And we pray for the same in our lives. -[2194.18 --> 2196.24] We pray that we would always respect our authorities. -[2196.70 --> 2201.98] But also to not be ashamed of your love for us and the story that you want us to share. -[2202.48 --> 2205.68] We pray for your Holy Spirit to give us that strength. -[2206.18 --> 2207.18] In your name, amen. -[2209.28 --> 2210.84] Nice to see you guys again this week. -[2211.20 --> 2211.96] Have a good week. -[2211.96 --> 2211.98] Have a good week. -[2211.98 --> 2221.16] All right. -[2221.22 --> 2226.64] It is such a privilege to be up here today to take part in this chunk of this service. -[2226.64 --> 2232.64] Right now we are going to witness two of our young people profess their faith to this church. -[2232.76 --> 2234.52] And of course, most importantly, to Christ. -[2234.68 --> 2237.06] And so we are going to take part in that today. -[2237.14 --> 2238.20] We're going to have two of them come up. -[2238.20 --> 2239.44] They will share testimonies. -[2239.80 --> 2243.38] They will have a spiritual mentor come up and share a little bit on their behalf as well. -[2243.74 --> 2247.42] And then Pastor Chris will come forward and lead us through the rest of the profession of faith. -[2247.50 --> 2251.88] So without further ado, I'm going to invite up Kiera Hummelman. -[2252.00 --> 2252.98] She's going to come up for it. -[2252.98 --> 2256.32] And actually her mentor, Heather, you can come and stand up here as well. -[2256.32 --> 2258.32] So Kiera Hummelman, here she comes. -[2258.40 --> 2259.40] And we are about to hear her story. -[2259.40 --> 2259.44] Thank you. -[2259.44 --> 2259.50] Thank you. -[2259.50 --> 2259.56] Thank you. -[2259.56 --> 2261.50] Thank you. -[2261.50 --> 2261.56] Thank you. -[2261.56 --> 2263.50] Thank you. -[2263.50 --> 2263.56] Thank you. -[2263.56 --> 2264.50] Thank you. -[2264.50 --> 2265.56] Thank you. -[2265.56 --> 2266.56] Thank you. -[2266.56 --> 2267.56] Thank you. -[2267.56 --> 2268.18] Thank you. -[2268.20 --> 2269.20] Thank you. -[2271.20 --> 2272.54] Hi, I'm Kiera. -[2273.68 --> 2278.34] I'm so blessed to have been able to grow up in a Christian home and be surrounded by the church family -[2278.34 --> 2280.78] as well as attend a Christian school my entire life. -[2281.38 --> 2285.10] This has probably been the biggest thing in my life that's helped me grow my faith journey -[2285.10 --> 2287.04] and grow closer with God. -[2287.82 --> 2290.46] My parents have been the biggest role models in my life. -[2290.82 --> 2294.14] They have helped me grow and learn, and they have had a big influence on me. -[2294.74 --> 2297.06] They have taught me how to trust God when things get hard -[2297.06 --> 2299.16] and how to show God in everything I do. -[2299.16 --> 2302.22] I am so thankful for the impact that they have had on me. -[2302.22 --> 2307.98] This church has also given me many opportunities for me to grow, specifically in trip settings, -[2307.98 --> 2313.24] like the Mexico Mission's trip and the youth conference in Edmonton, both being highlights -[2313.24 --> 2315.06] and have challenged me in my faith journey. -[2315.06 --> 2317.84] Youth has also been a great learning tool for me. -[2317.84 --> 2322.26] I've gained insight from 2020 nights, and talks with Heather have been really impactful. -[2323.60 --> 2326.98] Graduating and moving on from LCS, I plan to take all I have learned -[2326.98 --> 2329.90] and use it to continue to grow my relationship with the Lord. -[2329.90 --> 2341.84] I'm kind of nervous now. -[2344.34 --> 2345.20] It's been a while. -[2348.50 --> 2350.02] I just love Kira. -[2350.02 --> 2357.72] I went out with her a week or so ago, and she shared her testimony with me, -[2357.82 --> 2362.20] and I realized that I have a very similar testimony to her. -[2362.68 --> 2369.34] And I think because we have so much in common, we just made a really special bond over the last five years. -[2369.92 --> 2374.46] So I've had the privilege of being Kira's youth leader for the past five years. -[2374.46 --> 2376.64] I feel like time really flies. -[2377.34 --> 2381.28] I could not be more honored to stand up here with her today. -[2382.38 --> 2386.38] One of my favorite things about Kira is her thoughtfulness of others. -[2387.04 --> 2392.48] Since grade eight, I've been blown away at how she would always ask me how I'm doing -[2392.48 --> 2394.80] before I had a chance to ask her. -[2395.48 --> 2398.58] And that's really big, especially, like, in grade eight. -[2398.58 --> 2402.26] It just shows that you have just a big heart for other people. -[2404.46 --> 2407.12] Yeah, you just have a really big heart, Kira, and it's really beautiful. -[2409.54 --> 2417.60] I'd like to share with you a devotion that I really love and has really encouraged me in the past. -[2418.28 --> 2424.04] The devotional that it's from is called Come Away, My Beloved by Francis Roberts. -[2424.24 --> 2428.16] I did paraphrase it a bit because I was told I had to keep this kind of not too long. -[2428.16 --> 2436.00] The specific devotion that I like is called I Want to Do a Beautiful Work. -[2438.44 --> 2442.56] He is a chosen vessel to bear my name, Acts 9, verse 15. -[2443.60 --> 2444.66] You are mine, Kira. -[2445.48 --> 2448.22] With a great price, I have purchased you for myself. -[2448.22 --> 2457.56] I say that if you listen to me, I will reveal myself to you more fully so that you will know more clearly how vital you are to my purpose. -[2458.18 --> 2462.64] There is a work to be done, and I need you as a vessel through which to work. -[2463.38 --> 2465.18] I want to do a beautiful work. -[2466.20 --> 2466.58] So, yeah. -[2467.02 --> 2471.30] As you go forward, keep listening to the Lord's voice and just keep doing his work. -[2471.80 --> 2474.10] You're amazing, Kira, and I'm so proud of you, and I love you. -[2474.34 --> 2475.58] And God has huge plans for you. -[2475.58 --> 2475.62] Thank you. -[2475.62 --> 2475.68] Thank you. -[2478.22 --> 2484.44] And I want to hug you. -[2489.20 --> 2489.56] Awesome. -[2489.68 --> 2490.16] Thank you, Kira. -[2490.26 --> 2490.72] Thank you, Heather. -[2490.92 --> 2492.82] I'm going to invite Ethan Spoor up as well. -[2492.90 --> 2498.12] He's going to share a little bit about his story and what brought him to this moment of professing his faith today. -[2504.24 --> 2504.64] Hi. -[2504.64 --> 2505.36] I'm Ethan. -[2505.36 --> 2506.36] I'm Ethan. -[2506.36 --> 2510.48] A verse that has stuck with me over the past few years is Joshua 1 verse 9, which says, -[2510.68 --> 2511.40] Be strong and courageous. -[2511.58 --> 2512.24] Do not be terrified. -[2512.40 --> 2513.22] Do not be discouraged. -[2513.76 --> 2515.98] For the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. -[2515.98 --> 2521.26] As many of you know, three years ago, I broke my ankle and developed complex regional pain syndrome. -[2521.80 --> 2525.24] As a result, I could not walk for nearly two years as I was in severe pain. -[2525.82 --> 2532.46] During this time, it was also very challenging for me to go to school, hang out with friends, and do regular everyday things that most people take for granted. -[2532.46 --> 2538.62] This was a discouraging situation, but this verse was able to remind me that God was with me even in this really challenging time. -[2539.28 --> 2542.72] It reminded me to be strong and persevere through all the physical therapy I had to go through. -[2544.04 --> 2550.12] Through this time, I was also able to see God's love through the church community as well as my family as many people were praying for me and encouraging me. -[2550.76 --> 2553.56] With God's help, I was able to work hard and overcome this injury. -[2554.12 --> 2556.06] Today, I am, as you can tell, able to walk. -[2556.70 --> 2563.34] I've been able to attend university at Redeemer in Ontario, and I can do everything I was able to do before my injury, which at the time looked very unlikely. -[2564.20 --> 2566.96] I know that no matter what challenges I face in life, God will be with me. -[2567.38 --> 2570.02] So that is why I am here today to profess my faith and love for God. -[2570.02 --> 2600.00] Thank you. -[2600.02 --> 2630.00] Thank you. -[2630.02 --> 2633.14] It talks a lot about the quality and character of man that you are. -[2633.28 --> 2635.46] And so Philippians 2, verses 1 to 4 says this. -[2636.10 --> 2636.30] It says, -[2636.30 --> 2666.28] It says, -[2666.28 --> 2670.20] This is very fitting today, too, Ethan, because Paul, of course, he's speaking to an entire church. -[2670.32 --> 2677.84] And so he's telling them not to look to their own interests, but to the interests of others, to show love to one another, to be compassionate, to be humble. -[2678.44 --> 2680.24] And you are all those things, Ethan. -[2680.30 --> 2681.24] You are a humble man. -[2681.32 --> 2682.08] You are compassionate. -[2682.24 --> 2683.16] You're a loving guy. -[2683.16 --> 2684.72] And I'm so happy to see you. -[2684.72 --> 2692.40] And I'm so happy to see you up here today, committing yourself to Christ and professing your faith to this community of believers in front of us here in this church, but also who are watching online right now. -[2692.40 --> 2705.60] And my encouragement to you is to take the character traits that God has created in you, this loving, compassionate, humble man that he's created you to be, and to serve this body and serve ultimately Christ well. -[2705.60 --> 2714.22] And while this encouragement is for you today, Ethan, on your profession of faith, it's also for all of us here today watching, too, for everybody online and here today. -[2714.42 --> 2718.92] May you, Ethan, show this church love, compassion, and mercy. -[2719.14 --> 2728.68] And as well, church, may we show both Kira and Ethan the same love, compassion, and mercy as we walk this road of life and be church together. -[2728.68 --> 2730.26] So I love you, man. -[2730.40 --> 2732.64] Thank you for doing this, and congratulations today. -[2733.64 --> 2734.06] All right. -[2734.10 --> 2737.20] I'm going to invite Pastor Chris up to continue this profession of faith. -[2737.26 --> 2739.16] And actually, I'm going to invite Kira up as well. -[2739.22 --> 2740.84] You can stand sort of here. -[2741.26 --> 2744.64] Ethan, you can stand a little closer to the microphone here so that we can hear your voices. -[2752.76 --> 2754.28] Do we need Kira to move? -[2755.54 --> 2756.08] You're good? -[2756.26 --> 2756.62] All right. -[2756.62 --> 2759.08] I want to make sure everyone at home can see, right? -[2759.16 --> 2760.06] Otherwise, what's the point? -[2761.54 --> 2769.46] So as a relatively new pastor in this community, I say relatively because it's seven months still new. -[2769.58 --> 2772.24] I don't know, but it kind of feels like it because this is new. -[2772.36 --> 2773.34] Being together is new. -[2773.48 --> 2782.84] So anyway, I am incredibly grateful for a community of faith that has surrounded its young people and its disciples -[2782.84 --> 2785.68] and has provided mentors for them. -[2785.68 --> 2789.06] Prior to this experience, I didn't know you guys. -[2789.14 --> 2795.62] I still don't really know you guys, but I know your mentors, and I trust this community and this process. -[2795.62 --> 2802.68] And it is beautiful to see the way that God has worked in your lives and in this community to bring you to this day. -[2802.68 --> 2807.02] And I'm so excited for you and for what this means for us. -[2807.02 --> 2816.48] You see, at their baptisms, we made a promise to be used of God to help get them to this day. -[2816.48 --> 2820.12] Today, we see that promise fulfilled. -[2820.12 --> 2826.06] And that is a beautiful testimony of God's faithfulness to his church. -[2826.42 --> 2829.56] And you guys are that beautiful picture today. -[2829.56 --> 2834.50] And so thank you for letting us be part of that. -[2836.10 --> 2839.14] To do this well, I'm going to ask you guys some questions. -[2839.78 --> 2844.98] And in fact, there are going to be four questions that will involve you professing your faith. -[2845.30 --> 2850.50] And then we're going to ask the church a question as they make another promise to you on this day. -[2850.50 --> 2855.20] And so I'm going to ask all four questions, and then I will ask you individually what your answers are. -[2855.36 --> 2857.12] But I'm actually going to move over here. -[2857.38 --> 2860.92] And when it comes time to answer, you can speak into that microphone. -[2860.92 --> 2863.82] And that way, all the people at home can hear you as well. -[2864.18 --> 2864.42] Cool? -[2865.02 --> 2865.38] All right. -[2866.12 --> 2868.10] So, Ethan and Kira. -[2869.10 --> 2874.46] Do you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God sent to redeem the world? -[2875.02 --> 2878.32] Do you love and trust him as the one who saves you from your sin? -[2878.32 --> 2882.56] And do you, with repentance and joy, embrace him as Lord of your life? -[2883.72 --> 2888.58] Do you believe that the Bible is the word of God revealing Christ and his redemption? -[2889.36 --> 2893.38] And that the confessions of this church faithfully reflect his revelation? -[2894.86 --> 2900.14] Do you accept the gracious promises of God sealed to you in your baptism? -[2900.42 --> 2906.58] And do you affirm your union with Christ and his church, which your baptism signifies? -[2906.58 --> 2921.06] And fourth, do you promise to do all you can with the help of the Holy Spirit to strengthen your love and commitment to Christ by sharing faithfully in the life of this church, honoring and submitting to its authority? -[2921.40 --> 2926.82] And do you join with the people of God in doing the work of the Lord everywhere? -[2927.58 --> 2931.52] Ethan, because you're closest to the microphone, what is your response? -[2931.96 --> 2932.34] I do. -[2932.44 --> 2933.12] God helping me. -[2933.62 --> 2933.88] Amen. -[2934.68 --> 2935.80] Roll out of the pocket. -[2935.80 --> 2936.28] Beautiful. -[2937.42 --> 2939.30] Kira, what is your response? -[2940.02 --> 2940.46] I do. -[2940.58 --> 2941.32] God helping me. -[2941.70 --> 2942.18] Amen. -[2943.86 --> 2951.88] In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, I now welcome you into the full privileges of communion in the church. -[2952.28 --> 2958.46] I welcome you to full participation in the life of the church, to its responsibilities, its joys, and its sufferings. -[2958.46 --> 2970.94] May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead, our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will. -[2970.94 --> 2979.38] And may he work in us, what is pleasing to him through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. -[2979.90 --> 2980.24] Amen. -[2980.24 --> 2980.32] Amen. -[2982.20 --> 2985.34] Here, I'm going to get you to stand here and Ethan over here. -[2987.10 --> 2989.64] Congregation, this is your turn now. -[2990.60 --> 2992.00] Ethan, take two steps that way. -[2992.50 --> 2993.00] There you go. -[2993.00 --> 2998.74] I'm going to invite you to stand as you also make a promise to them. -[2998.80 --> 3006.62] I'm going to ask you a question, and if you agree with the promise implied, that you would also respond with, we do, God helping us. -[3006.96 --> 3010.44] People at home, I encourage you to do this as well. -[3010.44 --> 3022.90] Do you, people of God, here at Langley Emanuel Church, promise Ethan and Kira your love, encouragement, and prayers? -[3023.38 --> 3024.22] What is your answer? -[3027.74 --> 3028.26] Amen. -[3028.86 --> 3030.68] I'm going to invite Ken to come forward. -[3030.78 --> 3035.48] He has a gift for each of you and a certificate to mark this occasion. -[3035.48 --> 3040.96] And there are names, so be specific. -[3042.30 --> 3045.46] Although, if you can't, they can read, I'm sure of it, so they could also trade. -[3051.66 --> 3059.38] Now, ordinarily, in a time like this, we would invite people to come forward and lay hands on you. -[3060.22 --> 3063.56] Now, because of COVID regulations, we're going to do that a little bit differently. -[3063.56 --> 3074.08] And so, if you are part of their household bubbles, and you're here this morning, would you come to the front and represent all of us by laying your hands on them as I pray for them? -[3074.18 --> 3076.54] And so, start walking. -[3076.80 --> 3082.74] I know that at least four of you from each household are here, so if there are more household bubbles, come on up. -[3083.60 --> 3085.16] Stand beside Ethan and Kira. -[3085.28 --> 3086.32] Lay your hands on them. -[3086.32 --> 3095.64] And for the rest of us, if you would be so inclined, you can extend your hand as a sign of the Spirit working through each of us as we pray together. -[3097.42 --> 3098.08] Let's pray. -[3101.96 --> 3105.02] Lord, our good God, -[3105.02 --> 3112.02] we thank you for your word and spirit through which we know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. -[3114.64 --> 3120.96] May Ethan and Kira, who confessed your name today, never cease to wonder at what you have done for them. -[3122.40 --> 3124.84] Help them to continue firmly in the faith, -[3125.42 --> 3130.08] to bear witness to your love, and to let the Holy Spirit shape their lives. -[3130.08 --> 3137.98] Take Ethan and Kira, good shepherd, into your care that they may loyally endure opposition to serving you. -[3139.06 --> 3144.98] And may we, with all your children, live together in the joy and power of your Holy Spirit. -[3146.06 --> 3153.06] We ask this and for your blessing on them today, Lord Jesus, in the hope of your coming. -[3153.98 --> 3155.96] In Christ's name we pray. -[3156.92 --> 3157.34] Amen. -[3157.34 --> 3157.38] Amen. -[3158.50 --> 3159.06] Amen. -[3160.82 --> 3164.48] Let's give them a round of applause as we welcome them into the fellowship of our church. -[3168.30 --> 3170.70] We can invite the worship team to come back up. -[3172.18 --> 3176.96] Ethan and Kira have requested a song for us to worship through, and we will do that now. -[3177.08 --> 3181.36] You may remain standing or sit if you need to as we come in worship. -[3181.36 --> 3181.44] Amen. -[3190.08 --> 3191.06] Thank you. -[3191.06 --> 3199.16] Thank you. -[3202.52 --> 3215.96] Thank you. -[3215.96 --> 3225.18] You are here, moving in our midst -[3225.18 --> 3231.32] I worship you, I worship you -[3231.32 --> 3238.76] You are here, walking in this place -[3238.76 --> 3245.32] I worship you, I worship you -[3245.32 --> 3253.24] You are here, moving in our midst -[3253.24 --> 3259.58] I worship you, I worship you -[3259.58 --> 3266.98] You are here, walking in this place -[3266.98 --> 3273.50] I worship you, I worship you -[3273.50 --> 3279.42] You are a waymaker, miracle worker -[3279.42 --> 3283.42] Promise keeper, light in the darkness -[3283.42 --> 3289.34] My God, that is who you are -[3289.34 --> 3293.34] You are a waymaker, miracle worker -[3293.34 --> 3297.34] Promise keeper, light in the darkness -[3297.34 --> 3303.26] My God, that is who you are -[3303.26 --> 3309.26] You are here, touching every heart -[3309.26 --> 3315.26] I worship you, I worship you -[3315.26 --> 3323.18] You are here, healing every heart -[3323.18 --> 3329.18] I worship you, I worship you -[3329.18 --> 3335.10] You are here, turning our love around -[3335.10 --> 3341.10] I worship you, I worship you -[3341.10 --> 3347.10] You are here, turning our love around -[3347.10 --> 3353.02] Every heart, I worship you -[3353.02 --> 3355.02] I worship you -[3355.02 --> 3357.02] You are a waymaker, miracle worker -[3357.02 --> 3360.94] You are a waymaker, miracle worker -[3360.94 --> 3364.94] Promise keeper, light in the darkness -[3364.94 --> 3370.86] My God, that is who you are -[3370.86 --> 3380.78] That is who you are -[3380.78 --> 3382.78] That is who you are -[3382.78 --> 3386.78] That is who you are -[3386.78 --> 3408.70] That is who you are -[3408.70 --> 3418.62] Even when I don't feel that you're working -[3418.62 --> 3420.62] Even when I don't feel that you're working -[3420.62 --> 3422.62] You never stop, you never stop working -[3422.62 --> 3426.62] You never stop, you never stop working -[3426.62 --> 3440.54] You never stop, you never stop working -[3440.54 --> 3446.54] Even when I don't feel that you're working -[3446.54 --> 3452.54] You never stop, you never stop working -[3452.54 --> 3466.46] You never stop, you never stop working -[3466.46 --> 3468.46] You never stop, you never stop working -[3468.46 --> 3470.46] You are a waymaker, miracle worker -[3470.46 --> 3474.46] Promise keeper, light in the darkness -[3474.46 --> 3478.46] My God, that is who you are -[3478.46 --> 3508.44] That is who you are -[3508.46 --> 3512.06] That is who you are -[3512.06 --> 3515.90] That is who you are -[3515.90 --> 3519.20] That is who you are -[3538.46 --> 3546.20] We will continue our worship at this time -[3546.20 --> 3547.90] By the giving of our offerings -[3547.90 --> 3550.68] The offerings for today are for our church budget -[3550.68 --> 3552.86] Which supports all the ministries -[3552.86 --> 3555.74] And everything to do with our church -[3555.74 --> 3558.12] And the second offering -[3558.12 --> 3559.42] The special offering for today -[3559.42 --> 3561.08] Is for World Renew Canada -[3561.08 --> 3565.60] World Renew Canada is a part of the CRC denomination -[3565.60 --> 3570.20] It is not directly supported by the CRC as such -[3570.20 --> 3573.20] Other than through churches and through individual offerings -[3573.20 --> 3578.68] Under the umbrella it has a disaster response section -[3578.68 --> 3583.08] Refugee resettlement, world hunger response, community development and more -[3583.08 --> 3586.68] It also partners with the World Food Grains Bank and other ministries -[3586.68 --> 3592.52] World Renew says that it is compelled by God's deep passion for justice and mercy -[3592.52 --> 3598.44] And joins communities around the world to renew hope, reconcile lives and restore creation -[3598.44 --> 3603.28] As the Lord commanded in Deuteronomy 16 verse 17 -[3603.28 --> 3608.92] Each of you must bring a gift in proportion to the way the Lord has blessed you -[3608.92 --> 3611.42] Therefore, give as you have been given -[3611.42 --> 3614.16] For more information, visit www.fema.org -[3614.16 --> 3614.18] For more information, visit www.fema.org -[3641.42 --> 3642.42] www.fema.org -[3671.42 --> 3676.42] www.fema.org -[3676.42 --> 3677.42] www.fema.org -[3677.42 --> 3680.42] www.fema.org -[3680.42 --> 3681.42] www.fema.org -[3681.42 --> 3682.42] www.fema.org -[3682.42 --> 3685.42] www.fema.org -[3685.42 --> 3687.42] www.fema.org -[3687.42 --> 3690.42] www.fema.org -[3690.42 --> 3691.42] Good morning everybody -[3691.42 --> 3692.42] Good to see everybody here -[3692.42 --> 3694.42] My name is Ken -[3694.42 --> 3696.42] I'm an elder here at the church -[3696.42 --> 3699.42] And I will be leading you in congregational prayer -[3699.42 --> 3704.54] prayer so let us go to God in prayer -[3705.66 --> 3709.62] merciful God and Heavenly Father Lord we come to you this morning with thanks and -[3709.62 --> 3713.22] praise in our hearts for being able to be here for the opportunity to worship -[3713.22 --> 3718.62] you with song and prayer you are the creator of heaven and earth Lord and it -[3718.62 --> 3722.86] is with confidence that we can know everything is in your hands it is -[3722.86 --> 3726.18] wonderful to be here together with your people and we thank you that you have -[3726.18 --> 3730.68] stirred our hearts to be here and be with you in worship -[3730.68 --> 3735.30] father some of us come here today with heavy hearts heavy hearts for all kinds -[3735.30 --> 3740.10] of reasons some are lonely some are unemployed some may be struggling with -[3740.10 --> 3745.32] illness both physical and mental some of us live with this pit in our stomach of -[3745.32 --> 3751.56] worry and uncertainty and even though we know you are who you are and we know -[3751.56 --> 3754.98] that you have us in our hand we just can't shake these feelings father we know -[3754.98 --> 3760.08] this because of our own sin we are able we are unable to see through our own -[3760.08 --> 3765.48] weakness to your amazing glory but thanks be to you for your son Jesus who paid the -[3765.48 --> 3770.14] price of our sin in our place so that the light of life may be put upon us even if -[3770.14 --> 3776.34] we can't see it hold on to each person who struggles to see that light make them -[3776.34 --> 3782.64] know that you know them that you love them and care deeply for them father we pray for -[3782.64 --> 3789.24] Ismay that she will continue to heal after her surgery that her recovery may go smoothly and -[3789.24 --> 3796.68] quickly that she may take up her life and task before you again be with Bob Viss who has recently -[3796.68 --> 3801.90] been diagnosed with lymphoma we are thankful so far that his treatments are going well and we pray that -[3801.90 --> 3808.50] this will continue to full healing be also with Marga Visscher who had surgery on her -[3808.50 --> 3816.90] foot this past week and is now recovering at home grant there to be the healing process to be quick and allow her to regain regular life -[3816.90 --> 3823.50] father we thank you for for music and the talents that you give to the people to make music -[3823.50 --> 3830.10] when instruments and voices come together in praise of you it is awesome to hear father we thank you for our worship -[3830.10 --> 3853.48] teams and the music they make pray that you continue to lead them with your spirit praise and worship of you we thank you for all the volunteers and committees of this church who contribute to its good running and order be with each person and work in their hearts to continue this work well we thank you for another school year that has ended or is coming to an end this week and that's the -[3853.48 --> 3883.46] week we are thankful for our schools and the ability to still have Christian education we pray for the ongoing work of Langley Christian School and other Christian schools that our members may attend keep the schools faithful to you and all they do and teach we pray for the graduates of grade 12 we thank you for their successful completion of grade school and we ask that you be with each one as they continue on in building their knowledge and skills toward a productive and living -[3883.46 --> 3913.44] life in your kingdom here we also thank you today for father's day lord be with each father here in this place and all the fathers in our church family you have given each one of the responsibility of being your earthly representative to our children please make us understand this awesome responsibility and take it up with purpose to love and lead our families in your will and ways be with those who struggle with their fathers and those fathers who struggle with their children -[3913.44 --> 3919.44] these days can also be difficult and so we pray that where there are hurts and struggles father you will bring healing -[3919.44 --> 3929.38] we also bring Ethan and Kira before you father they have shared their testimony and faith and we ask that you now work through them to further your kingdom work here -[3929.38 --> 3935.36] hold on to them we pray so that their faith will continue to grow and increase throughout their lives -[3935.36 --> 3941.84] continue to be with us in this day and we pray that you will strengthen your servant -[3941.84 --> 3946.32] pastor chris to speak boldly and clearly the words you want to teach us -[3946.32 --> 3950.24] father we pray all these things in jesus name amen -[3950.24 --> 3964.88] we're going to open up god's word in mark 3 -[3964.88 --> 3969.36] i'm going to read a few verses from the end of that chapter starting at verse 31 -[3970.40 --> 3974.96] through the end and so if you've got a bible handy i encourage you to open that up and keep it open -[3974.96 --> 3980.72] with you if you've got it uh it will be on the screen but uh better in your hands in whatever form that -[3980.72 --> 3987.36] that takes um at home as well if you have a bible encourage you to grab that or turn it on or whatever -[3987.36 --> 3992.96] and go to mark 3 starting in verse 31 this is god's word to us this morning -[3992.96 --> 4001.20] jesus mother and brothers arrived standing outside they sent someone in to call him -[4002.56 --> 4008.08] a crowd was sitting around him and they told him your mother and brothers are outside looking for you -[4009.04 --> 4017.92] who are my mother and my brothers he asked then he looked at those seated in a circle around him and said -[4017.92 --> 4027.12] here are my mother and my brothers whoever does god's will is my brother and sister and mother -[4028.08 --> 4029.12] this is the word of the lord -[4033.92 --> 4042.64] now um in the providence of the holy spirits working uh this sermon text for this sunday was picked before -[4042.64 --> 4047.92] a profession of faith although there is direct and immediate application to it and it was picked -[4047.92 --> 4053.44] independent of my realization that it was also one father's day and so that's just uh perhaps -[4053.44 --> 4059.04] fortuitous or if you are looking for something about fathers in particular and you're disappointed in -[4059.04 --> 4065.52] that i'm sorry talk to me afterwards i'm happy to handle your disappointment i do want to say before we -[4065.52 --> 4072.56] go in however that this is the kind of sermon that has a lot of maze and mites in it and and what i mean by -[4072.56 --> 4079.44] that is that it is going to require a little bit of introspection on your part as you look in your own -[4079.44 --> 4086.24] heart and your own life and so your work is application and discernment here mine is just to open the door and -[4086.24 --> 4094.80] invite you to wonder and so i encourage you to to do that and to let the spirit do that as we reflect on these words of jesus -[4095.52 --> 4103.28] together now what we will see in this text of course is that jesus is providing his disciples -[4103.28 --> 4111.28] and us as his disciples two thousand years later with a new definition of family rooted in a new life -[4111.84 --> 4120.32] of obedience and so if jesus is giving us a new definition that must mean there is an old or an other -[4120.32 --> 4130.16] definition in our culture today it seems to me that there's sort of two operating understandings of -[4130.16 --> 4136.48] family and that family relationship and for some of us and this is true in the church but also outside -[4136.48 --> 4144.16] of the church for some of us family is everything right family defines who you are family is most important -[4144.16 --> 4149.20] these are my people everything i do i do for them -[4149.20 --> 4155.84] right and it's in this category of understanding of family as everything as definitional to who we are -[4155.84 --> 4163.28] where you start to talk about things like traditional family values or family as the center of society and -[4163.28 --> 4171.20] on and on and on and on and this has a particular expression that comes out in the church often right -[4171.20 --> 4178.72] the idea turns into this reality that you are not complete until you have a family -[4178.72 --> 4187.76] right this has the implication of devaluing singles and singleness in our communities which in turn -[4187.76 --> 4193.44] might then build to the idea that you're not a full functioning member of the community or society or -[4193.44 --> 4200.24] church until you're married and have kids right sometimes our ideas of adulthood are connected to being -[4200.24 --> 4206.16] married and having a family and we might never say it so explicitly but in function and practice we say -[4206.16 --> 4211.04] you're not really adults until you hit this marker or that marker or whatever the case may be -[4213.12 --> 4222.24] now on the other side of the spectrum is an idea of family that says family limits me right that in order -[4222.24 --> 4229.84] to be fully me i need to be rid of my family's influence and the identity imposed on me because of them and -[4229.84 --> 4236.08] in this way of thinking and being in the world family is an obstacle that needs to be overcome on the -[4236.08 --> 4244.96] way to personal and authentic identity this is where we begin to talk about individual values or -[4244.96 --> 4255.04] individual rights replacing and and overwhelming family values now the danger here is the the breakdown -[4255.04 --> 4263.04] of family and broken marriages and broken relationships here the consequence can be feelings of animosity or jealousy or victimization -[4263.04 --> 4266.56] the consequence of the situation because these people are holding you back -[4268.48 --> 4276.88] now in some way both of these ideas are operating in our cultural moment both in our sort of 21st -[4276.88 --> 4285.92] century western society but also in our 21st century church cultural moment now there are sort of healthy -[4285.92 --> 4293.84] expressions of both of these right the family is incredibly influential in shaping who you are and who you will -[4293.84 --> 4301.84] become and the responsibility of parents for instance is to raise healthy independent adults people who can stand -[4301.84 --> 4310.40] on their own right and the point is that dependents become independent and regardless of how long that takes for some of us that is the goal -[4310.40 --> 4323.04] the goal but these good expressions also have manifestations that are more idolatrous and that more ultimate in our lives -[4323.04 --> 4332.08] right when when your hope for life becomes marriage and kids you've turned a good thing into an ultimate thing -[4332.08 --> 4343.36] when your idea of uh when your idea is that finally being free of these people or these structures or these systems will mean i'm actually free -[4343.36 --> 4355.04] we've we've put our hope into some other idea or idol than jesus right we've made idols of family and systems either positively or negatively -[4355.04 --> 4365.76] what i hope we can see this morning is that neither of these things is what jesus says about family and neither of these things are what the the bible teaches -[4366.96 --> 4375.12] jesus redefines family for his day and for ours and he makes it about more than biology right more than psychology -[4375.12 --> 4383.92] family isn't just a social construct to be cast off but it also isn't the ultimate source of your identity and purpose in society -[4383.92 --> 4392.00] now let me be clear right and we'll start at the beginning here with a sort of biblical theology of family because family is a good thing -[4392.00 --> 4400.56] it's a created good it's designed in the creation of god at which he looks and says this is very good -[4401.36 --> 4406.64] and so real quick i'm going to throw a couple bible passages in front of you so we can tie this story together -[4406.64 --> 4414.56] genesis 1 all the way back in the beginning god created mankind in his own image in the image of god he created -[4414.56 --> 4423.36] them male and female he created them and then genesis 2 god adds to that story or zooms in on the role of -[4424.08 --> 4429.84] humans and says for this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife and they will -[4429.84 --> 4438.96] become one flesh god looked at his creation and it was very good and part of god's very good creation -[4438.96 --> 4446.40] is marriage and family god charged adam and eve be fruitful and multiply that means have families -[4449.12 --> 4455.60] marriage between a man and a woman is good and part of god's intent and design for the beauty of his -[4455.60 --> 4462.16] creation right and then dig a little deeper there's a lot of uh words that the bible has to say about -[4462.16 --> 4468.80] respecting your family about honoring your parents but not exasperating your children and providing -[4468.80 --> 4475.76] for your children exodus 20 right in the 10 commandments right god says to the people of israel -[4475.76 --> 4481.28] honor your father and your mother so that you may live long in the land the lord your god is giving you -[4481.28 --> 4488.64] colossians 3 children obey your parents in everything for this pleases the lord first -[4488.64 --> 4494.32] timothy anyone who does not provide for their relatives especially for their own household has -[4494.32 --> 4502.88] denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever the bible knows and gets the importance of family -[4502.88 --> 4508.88] for a person's upbringing and for their faith formation right in deuteronomy 6 we read impress them -[4508.88 --> 4514.16] that's the commandments of god on your children talk about them when you sit at home and when you -[4514.16 --> 4520.40] walk along the road and when you lie down and when you get up proverbs 22 right train a child in the -[4520.40 --> 4527.76] way he should go and when he is old he will not turn from it and so let me be really really clear the -[4527.76 --> 4534.72] family the biological family is a created structure it is a normative sphere of authority and the flourishing -[4534.72 --> 4540.40] of the family is in fact closely linked to the well-being of society family is meant to be the first -[4540.40 --> 4546.88] context in which people that is primarily children learn about god that is all true -[4549.04 --> 4556.64] but there's also our text right where jesus says who are my mother and my brothers -[4558.08 --> 4563.60] right there's also jesus words when he says whoever does god's will is my brother and sister -[4563.60 --> 4572.40] and mother there's also a text in luke 14 right where jesus says if anyone comes to me and does not -[4572.40 --> 4578.64] hate his father and mother his wife and his children his brothers and sisters yes even his own life he -[4578.64 --> 4586.96] cannot be my disciple in the same way any of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be my -[4586.96 --> 4600.48] my disciple what on earth is jesus talking about this morning welcome to the tension we're going to walk in this -[4601.44 --> 4601.92] tension -[4604.40 --> 4612.40] now the context of jesus remarks in what we read has to be understood and has to be considered out of verse 21 -[4612.40 --> 4618.40] and so if your bibles are still open look at mark 3 verse 21 where we read -[4619.52 --> 4626.00] when his family heard about this they went to take charge of him for they said he is out of his mind -[4632.00 --> 4636.96] now the word used for take charge in our translation or if you're reading from another translation -[4636.96 --> 4646.56] uh it might say sees him um that word is most often translated as arrest right and so their plan -[4646.56 --> 4654.40] is for more than just to to slip him out the back door right they are ashamed they are scared and they -[4654.40 --> 4657.92] are concerned about public opinion and so they're going to put him away -[4657.92 --> 4665.60] right that's part of the context that we need to understand still in the context in verse 32 right -[4665.60 --> 4672.16] which we did read and says your mother and your brothers are outside looking for you and in -[4672.16 --> 4679.76] another translation it says seeking you now in the gospel of mark in particular this greek word that's -[4679.76 --> 4686.24] translated looking for you or seeking you has a different use than just the you know casually looking for -[4686.24 --> 4692.56] uh in mark almost every single time that this word is used except for one in mark 16 it has a sense -[4692.56 --> 4700.56] of seeking to destroy or a seeking to arrest or to test or to kill or to betray right this isn't the -[4700.56 --> 4707.04] sort of seeking that you get in matthew when uh jesus says seek first the kingdom of god or or when jesus -[4707.04 --> 4711.52] says ask and it will be given to you seek and you will find knock and the door will be open to you -[4711.52 --> 4718.56] this isn't that kind of seeking in fact this is the opposite of that sort of seeking right his family -[4719.20 --> 4725.04] his mother and his brothers are at cross purposes to jesus mission and to the father's will -[4726.64 --> 4733.36] now understanding that and knowing that jesus knows that helps us make sense of his words then -[4733.36 --> 4739.76] especially at the end of his text in verse 35 where jesus says whoever does the will of god is my brother -[4739.76 --> 4745.68] and sister and mother you see because what jesus is doing is redefining family -[4747.84 --> 4753.92] and that would have been just as shocking in jesus day as it is today although maybe for different -[4753.92 --> 4761.76] reasons because in jesus day whether you are in jewish palestine or in the broader roman empire right -[4761.76 --> 4771.28] uh family is the basis of social and economic and religious life in the the roman world actually the -[4771.28 --> 4779.04] head of the family the pater familius ruled the life of all his dependents and slaves and free persons -[4779.04 --> 4787.92] attached to their domus their household adult children even would remain under his authority until he died -[4787.92 --> 4792.88] he ran the business and economic life he determined the religious practices and commitments of the -[4792.88 --> 4799.84] household the family was the source of your identity and status and so there it mattered who your father was -[4801.60 --> 4808.72] in jewish households this is also true in fact it's even heightened right when sons got married and moved -[4808.72 --> 4815.60] out like they would in response to genesis 2 moving out really usually only meant building a house -[4815.60 --> 4821.52] structure right next door to mom and dad and probably even sharing a wall like a modern day duplex but -[4821.52 --> 4829.44] just one eighth the size right the the sleeping areas would sort of be off to the side and they would be moved -[4829.44 --> 4836.08] around but then each of those separate family houses would be built around a shared courtyard or an open -[4836.08 --> 4842.56] air center that sometimes would have tarps over the top to block the sun right throughout the old testament -[4842.56 --> 4847.84] the role and importance of family as we've seen is highlighted in fact in the old testament the word -[4848.48 --> 4857.60] life is almost always used interchangeably with the word family your family was your life and to reject -[4857.60 --> 4864.72] your family or to be rejected by them was to lose your life now understanding that helps us understand this -[4864.72 --> 4870.16] context it also helps us understand the parable of the prodigal son a little bit as well right -[4870.16 --> 4878.56] your family is your identity your status and your life and in some ways right in our own world that -[4878.56 --> 4888.08] finds ways to continue on there's a story that was reported on a few years ago a woman named gloria james -[4888.64 --> 4895.36] she was arrested for slapping a valet at a hotel who took too long to bring her car around -[4896.32 --> 4902.24] now according to the valet when she slapped him she shouted do you know who i am -[4903.84 --> 4907.52] and so do you know who she is you know who gloria james is anyone -[4909.52 --> 4917.20] gloria james is lebron james's mother how many of you know who that is right super famous basketball -[4917.20 --> 4922.96] player playing for the lakers he's got four championships four mvps four finals mvp awards he's -[4922.96 --> 4929.84] a 17-time nba all-star player three-time nba all-star mvp he's got two olympic gold medals and a bronze -[4929.84 --> 4937.68] medal gloria acted as if her son's fame her son's special status gave her privilege -[4939.76 --> 4944.00] now most of us would probably never say something and i trust that that is true for you too right we -[4944.00 --> 4952.16] would probably never say do you know who i am but we all struggle with presuming certain allegiances -[4952.16 --> 4959.36] to different families than the blood bought by grace through faith family that jesus has placed us in -[4959.36 --> 4970.64] here if sports are more important than gathering with your blood-bought brothers and sisters you may be -[4970.64 --> 4972.32] living out of the wrong idea of family -[4974.64 --> 4979.28] if you believe that having children will finally give you meaning and purpose you may be living out -[4979.28 --> 4987.04] of the wrong idea of family if your regular practice is to not include others and outsiders -[4987.04 --> 4991.36] and here's one specific to the church because after church on sunday you're going to go have -[4991.36 --> 4998.16] lunch with your family you may be living out of the wrong idea of family if you think that someone -[4998.16 --> 5003.84] isn't fit to lead in the church or isn't a fully grown mature responsible adult until they are married -[5003.84 --> 5011.12] and have kids you are living out of the wrong idea of family and if you're first or if your only question -[5011.12 --> 5017.28] to young people is when are you going to get married or if your first or only question to young couples is -[5017.28 --> 5021.28] when are you going to have kids you may be living out of the wrong idea of family -[5025.52 --> 5034.64] at the beginning of the third century in roughly 203 a.d there's a woman her name is perpetua -[5034.64 --> 5042.00] and she is a married noble woman just 22 years old she lives in carthage which is part of north -[5042.00 --> 5050.64] africa in the roman empire by all accounts she is one of the privileged elites she is converted to -[5050.64 --> 5061.12] christianity because of a slave in her house named felicitas now perpetua and felicitas are eventually -[5061.12 --> 5067.68] arrested and imprisoned for refusing to offer sacrifices to the emperor at that time in -[5067.68 --> 5075.36] in history uh sacrifices to the emperor and worshiping the emperor was used as a test to find christians -[5075.36 --> 5083.92] out right so that they could be either persecuted or even killed she refused to do that and so she -[5083.92 --> 5090.96] along with felicitas were arrested now uh during that time we have memoirs memoirs recorded from -[5090.96 --> 5097.52] her and she recounts the time that her father came to her while she was in prison and he pleaded with -[5097.52 --> 5106.00] her to recant and she told him look i can't be anything other than who i am a christian she writes -[5106.00 --> 5111.84] in her memoirs that her father was so angry at the word christian that he moved towards me as though to -[5111.84 --> 5120.80] pluck out my eyes and then he begs her she writes this she records his speech she says that her -[5120.80 --> 5127.52] dad said to her daughter have pity on my gray head have pity on me your father if i deserve to be -[5127.52 --> 5133.04] called your father if i have favored you above your brothers if i have raised you to reach this prime of -[5133.04 --> 5137.92] your life do not abandon me to the reproach of men think of your brothers think of your mother and -[5137.92 --> 5143.84] your aunt think of your children who will not be able to live while you are gone give up your pride you -[5143.84 --> 5149.92] will destroy us all none of us will ever be able to speak freely again if anything happens to you do -[5149.92 --> 5156.48] you hear what he's doing he is trying to use family and the social pressures that come with this idea -[5156.48 --> 5162.56] with this idolatry of family to get her to change from her newfound faith in jesus -[5162.56 --> 5171.92] she rejects his plea saying in the final letter that we have from her that she found a new family -[5172.80 --> 5182.48] and that felicitous has become her sister they died in each other's arms as sisters in the faith -[5182.48 --> 5191.36] jesus redefines family and it's not about your blood it's about his -[5193.68 --> 5201.36] this is what profession of faith means this is what profession of faith does ethan and kira are saying -[5201.36 --> 5208.56] i am part of this family right when their mentors speak and give testimony of their faith we are living -[5208.56 --> 5215.20] into and out of this new idea of family because you see gospel family is bigger and more beautiful -[5215.20 --> 5219.04] than even genetic family no matter how beautiful your genetic family may be -[5219.92 --> 5225.60] jesus redefines family and he makes it about relationship to each other a relationship that -[5225.60 --> 5232.16] is marked by obedience to god whoever does god's will is my brother and sister and mother -[5232.16 --> 5241.36] in fact this is how paul puts it in in romans 8 romans 8 14 paul says for all who are led by the spirit of -[5241.36 --> 5248.88] god's are sons and daughters of god you have received the spirit of adoption as sons and daughters by whom we -[5248.88 --> 5261.04] cry abba father we are children of god you are part of a new family if by grace through faith you believe -[5262.16 --> 5266.80] and so as we wrap this up this morning i want you to think about this -[5268.88 --> 5275.44] when you talk to people about your faith when you invite your neighbors to faith or co-workers or -[5276.08 --> 5286.08] friends or colleagues whoever when you invite people to faith you are not inviting people primarily to church -[5286.08 --> 5294.40] that is to come to this service you're not inviting people into a primarily intellectual conversation -[5295.36 --> 5303.28] although both of those are part of it you are inviting people into a new family you are inviting -[5303.28 --> 5312.24] people into a relationship to god that means a relationship to brothers and sisters you are inviting -[5312.24 --> 5318.48] people into a community of faith that is so much bigger than biology right it's about justification -[5318.48 --> 5324.96] and sanctification it's about communion at the cross with jesus and with each other you are inviting -[5324.96 --> 5336.88] people into a new experience of family into a new family we are a family closer to each other because of -[5336.88 --> 5345.28] jesus than we are to our unbelieving biological brothers and sisters and parents and kids we are perpetua and felicitous -[5347.44 --> 5354.48] and it's my prayer that as jesus redefines family for us as he calls us to lives of obedience that with -[5354.48 --> 5362.00] ever increasing measure we would be this family of god that we would become more and more that family -[5362.00 --> 5370.16] that the love that we share in broken and attempts and full of mistakes would be the overwhelming -[5370.16 --> 5377.92] experience for us all whether they come to this church or live next to you in your neighborhoods or -[5377.92 --> 5388.40] hear from you at work or in school it is my prayer that through us and with us you would know this new family -[5388.40 --> 5400.40] brothers and sisters ethan and kira welcome to the family amen let's pray together -[5404.00 --> 5407.28] lord jesus you make us new -[5410.64 --> 5415.92] you make us new by taking our hearts of stone and turning them into hearts of flesh -[5415.92 --> 5426.88] you make us new creations by taking us out of our being dead in sin and trespasses and giving us new life -[5426.88 --> 5434.24] and you make us new by granting us new brothers and sisters a new family -[5437.44 --> 5439.04] lord jesus may we -[5439.04 --> 5451.20] see see see for the first time or for a renewed time the vision of family that you have for us in the church -[5452.80 --> 5459.20] and so come what may as brothers and sisters may we go together -[5459.20 --> 5473.20] may we go in the power of your spirit in jesus christ we pray amen -[5473.20 --> 5479.20] so -[5479.20 --> 5483.20] so -[5483.20 --> 5493.20] is -[5501.20 --> 5502.20] so -[5502.20 --> 5508.28] I've heard a thousand stories of life -[5508.28 --> 5511.48] They've been your life -[5511.48 --> 5514.72] But I've been to you -[5514.72 --> 5517.00] And I swear to love -[5517.00 --> 5520.74] In the dead of my eyes -[5520.74 --> 5522.72] And I've been to you -[5522.72 --> 5524.82] And I've been to you -[5524.82 --> 5526.82] And I've been to you -[5526.82 --> 5528.82] And I've been to you -[5528.82 --> 5558.80] And I've been to you -[5558.82 --> 5560.82] And I've been to you -[5560.82 --> 5562.82] And I've been to you -[5562.82 --> 5564.82] And I've been to you -[5564.82 --> 5567.82] Dear, oh, Susan, for instance -[5568.48 --> 5572.02] Only you broke my because -[5572.02 --> 5575.50] You just got me -[5575.50 --> 5577.32] And before me -[5577.32 --> 5579.82] Stay alone -[5579.82 --> 5581.82] Come on, come on -[5581.82 --> 5583.82] Come on, come on -[5583.82 --> 5585.82] To you, Father -[5585.82 --> 5587.82] To you, Lord -[5587.82 --> 5589.82] To you, Lord -[5589.82 --> 5592.82] I love for you -[5592.82 --> 5600.82] Perfect. -[5622.82 --> 5638.10] you -[5652.82 --> 5658.00] And I'll walk away to God. -[5661.52 --> 5665.60] Love so unbeknownst, -[5665.60 --> 5670.44] I can hardly speak. -[5670.96 --> 5675.60] He's so unexplainable, -[5675.60 --> 5682.18] I can hardly think as you call me. -[5682.18 --> 5687.18] Keep us still as you call me. -[5687.18 --> 5691.18] Keep us still as you call me. -[5691.18 --> 5695.18] Keep us still in the heart. -[5695.18 --> 5699.18] Love so unbeknownst, -[5699.18 --> 5702.18] I can hardly speak. -[5702.18 --> 5706.18] To you all, to you all, -[5706.18 --> 5710.18] to you all in my love, -[5710.18 --> 5713.18] I feel so unbeknownst, -[5713.18 --> 5715.16] and to you all, to you all. -[5715.18 --> 5717.18] We've got one more line. -[5717.18 --> 5719.18] I feel so unbeknownst, -[5719.18 --> 5721.18] and we've got one more line. -[5721.18 --> 5727.18] To you all, to you all, to you all. -[5727.18 --> 5736.18] I'm not my new story, story, story -[5736.18 --> 5755.58] As we go this week, -[5755.58 --> 5758.94] Know that God himself goes with you. -[5759.80 --> 5762.12] Not only does he go with you, -[5762.22 --> 5766.36] But we go together as a family of faith. -[5767.08 --> 5770.30] A community of disciples who belong to the Lord Jesus. -[5770.52 --> 5774.18] And so go in the power of his name. -[5774.72 --> 5777.36] Receive the blessing of our God. -[5778.72 --> 5781.54] May God go before you to lead you. -[5782.18 --> 5784.32] May God go behind you to guard you. -[5784.32 --> 5786.90] May God go beneath you to support you. -[5787.20 --> 5790.12] And may God go beside you to befriend you. -[5790.44 --> 5792.68] Do not be afraid. -[5793.24 --> 5795.00] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5795.12 --> 5796.84] Do not be afraid. -[5797.22 --> 5801.90] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5802.90 --> 5803.24] Amen. -[5803.24 --> 5803.38] Amen. -[5803.38 --> 5826.08] I'm the Lord of sea and sky. -[5826.08 --> 5829.76] I have heard my people cry. -[5829.76 --> 5833.46] All who dwell in darkness sing. -[5833.92 --> 5836.46] My hand will sing. -[5837.38 --> 5840.64] I will make the sun of night. -[5841.04 --> 5844.26] I will make their darkness bright. -[5844.70 --> 5847.90] Who will bear my light for them? -[5848.38 --> 5850.46] Who shall I stand? -[5850.46 --> 5855.50] Here I am, Lord. -[5855.50 --> 5859.12] Is it I, Lord? -[5859.38 --> 5866.08] I have heard you morning in the night. -[5866.08 --> 5880.64] I will hold your people in my heart. -[5880.64 --> 5881.72] I am, Lord. -[5881.72 --> 5883.68] I have heard you morning in the night. -[5883.68 --> 5884.32] I am, Lord. -[5884.32 --> 5889.76] I will burn my people's grave. -[5889.76 --> 5893.38] I will send a prayer for them. -[5893.38 --> 5895.72] They turn away. -[5897.00 --> 5900.60] I will break their hearts of stone. -[5901.10 --> 5904.02] Give them hearts for love alone. -[5904.02 --> 5912.38] I will sing my word to them, whom shall I send them? -[5912.80 --> 5919.26] Here I am, Lord, is it I, Lord? -[5920.02 --> 5926.22] I have heard you calling in the night. -[5926.22 --> 5933.66] I will go, Lord, if you lead me. -[5934.62 --> 5941.12] I will hold your people in my heart. -[5943.46 --> 5947.18] I, the Lord, a blind and plain. -[5947.44 --> 5950.72] I will tend the poor and lame. -[5950.72 --> 5954.56] I will stand a feast for them. -[5954.56 --> 5957.88] My hand will sing. -[5958.72 --> 5961.92] Finest bread I will provide. -[5962.28 --> 5965.06] Till their hearts be satisfied. -[5966.04 --> 5969.22] I will give my life to them. -[5969.76 --> 5972.56] Who shall I send? -[5973.90 --> 5980.96] Here I am, Lord, is it I, Lord? -[5980.96 --> 5988.42] I have heard you calling in the night. -[5988.42 --> 5992.18] I will move on. -[5992.44 --> 5995.40] If you lead me, -[5996.06 --> 6002.12] I will hold your people in my heart. -[6002.12 --> 6014.98] I will never judge me. -[6015.48 --> 6019.84] I will save you. -[6019.84 --> 6023.98] I will have heard you calling in my heart. -[6023.98 --> 6028.56] Oh, la-la-la-la-la-la-la -[6028.56 --> 6031.98] Oh, la-la-la-la-la-la -[6031.98 --> 6035.98] Oh, la-la-la-la-la-la-la -[6035.98 --> 6038.98] Oh, la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la -[6038.98 --> 6044.30] Spirit fall down, start a holy riot -[6044.30 --> 6051.80] Fill this place now with the tongues of fire -[6051.80 --> 6059.52] I'll break the strongholds, come and unleash heaven -[6059.52 --> 6066.96] Burn within us, make us bold as liars -[6066.96 --> 6073.56] This is our revival anthem can -[6073.56 --> 6077.12] You feel the darkness shaking, oh -[6077.12 --> 6080.16] We are the dry bones rising -[6080.16 --> 6083.64] This will be our great awakening -[6083.64 --> 6087.88] This is our revival anthem -[6087.88 --> 6099.74] Fill our hearts, Lord, with a holy danger -[6099.74 --> 6107.06] Lead us beyond our fear of failure -[6107.06 --> 6111.84] We'll fight the good fight -[6111.84 --> 6114.30] In your strength and power -[6114.30 --> 6119.14] We'll take back the night -[6119.14 --> 6122.74] Victory is ours, yeah -[6122.74 --> 6128.46] This is our revival anthem can -[6128.46 --> 6132.46] You feel the darkness shaking, oh -[6132.46 --> 6136.28] We are the dry bones rising, this -[6136.28 --> 6138.22] Will be our great awakening -[6138.22 --> 6142.46] This is our revival anthem can -[6142.46 --> 6144.18] We're caving, oh -[6144.18 --> 6144.46] We're caving, yeah -[6144.46 --> 6148.18] We're caving, yeah -[6148.18 --> 6149.18] We're caving, yeah -[6149.18 --> 6153.82] We will praise you when our hearts are breaking -[6153.82 --> 6157.58] Praise you when our world is caving -[6157.58 --> 6162.18] We will not, we will not be moved -[6162.18 --> 6163.90] We will not be moved -[6163.90 --> 6168.58] We will praise you till we see your kingdom -[6168.58 --> 6172.28] Greater things are surely coming -[6172.28 --> 6177.16] You are God, you are on the moon -[6177.16 --> 6180.46] You are on the moon -[6180.46 --> 6192.46] We are the dry bones rising, this -[6192.46 --> 6198.26] Will be our great awakening, this -[6198.26 --> 6202.22] We are the dry bones rising, this -[6202.22 --> 6210.18] Will be our great awakening, this -[6210.18 --> 6212.18] Is our revival anthem -[6212.18 --> 6217.18] This will be our great awakening, this -[6217.18 --> 6220.18] Is our revival anthem -[6220.18 --> 6238.18] Everybody has trials -[6238.18 --> 6240.18] And temptation -[6240.18 --> 6245.18] Everybody knows heartbreak, isolation -[6245.18 --> 6253.18] But we can lay our burdens down -[6253.18 --> 6257.18] But we can lay our burdens down -[6257.18 --> 6261.18] Lay our burdens down -[6261.18 --> 6265.18] What a friend we have in Jesus -[6265.18 --> 6269.18] He's too is my sins are gone -[6269.18 --> 6273.18] I see grace on every horizon -[6273.18 --> 6275.18] And forever and ever -[6275.18 --> 6277.18] And forever and ever -[6277.18 --> 6279.18] As hard as my home -[6279.18 --> 6281.18] Everybody has fears -[6281.18 --> 6283.18] Everybody got worry -[6283.18 --> 6287.18] Everybody knows sorrow, never station -[6287.18 --> 6289.18] Everybody has fears -[6289.18 --> 6290.18] Everybody got worry -[6290.18 --> 6294.18] Everybody got worry -[6294.18 --> 6297.18] Everybody knows sorrow, never station -[6297.18 --> 6299.18] Everybody -[6299.18 --> 6301.18] Everybody got worry -[6301.18 --> 6303.18] Everybody got worry -[6303.18 --> 6304.18] Everybody got worry -[6304.18 --> 6305.18] But we can lay our burdens down -[6305.18 --> 6307.18] But we can lay our burdens down -[6307.18 --> 6308.18] But we can lay our burdens down -[6308.18 --> 6310.18] But we can lay our burdens down -[6310.18 --> 6312.18] Let our burdens down -[6312.18 --> 6314.18] Let our burdens down -[6314.18 --> 6316.18] What a friend we have in Jesus -[6316.18 --> 6318.18] Have been Jesus -[6318.18 --> 6322.18] He still is my sins are gone -[6322.18 --> 6326.18] I see grace on every horizon -[6326.18 --> 6329.18] And forever and ever -[6329.18 --> 6331.18] As hard as my home -[6331.18 --> 6335.18] No more betrayal -[6335.18 --> 6337.18] For He is faithful -[6337.18 --> 6338.68] He fills me up -[6338.68 --> 6340.18] And My cup is round -[6340.18 --> 6341.18] And it's over -[6341.18 --> 6342.18] No more betrayal -[6342.18 --> 6343.18] For He is faithful -[6343.18 --> 6346.18] He fills me up -[6346.18 --> 6347.18] And my cup runs -[6347.18 --> 6348.18] It's over -[6348.18 --> 6349.18] No more betrayal -[6349.18 --> 6350.18] For He is There -[6350.18 --> 6351.18] He fills me up -[6351.18 --> 6352.10] Before He stays -[6352.18 --> 6352.50] He fills me up -[6353.18 --> 6354.18] But my cup run -[6354.18 --> 6355.18] It's over -[6355.18 --> 6356.18] No more betrayal -[6356.18 --> 6357.18] For He忘恩 -[6357.18 --> 6358.18] Me -[6358.18 --> 6360.18] fulfilled -[6360.18 --> 6361.18] Finally -[6361.18 --> 6364.26] A man diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 25, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 25, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6a0e83660abe10dfa6c7c1ace26d2936daca1f60..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 25, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,152 +0,0 @@ -• Invincibility and power -• Overcoming obstacles and challenges -• Feeling brave and unstoppable -• Raising up to victory -• Persevering through struggles and hardships -• Standing tall despite adversity -• Never giving up or giving in -• Rising above the rest and achieving greatness -• Destiny and legacy -• Conquering pain and overcoming obstacles -• Perseverance and determination -• Resilience in the face of adversity -• Trust and reliance on a higher power or entity -• Finding refuge and strength in difficult times -• Worship and prayer services -• Graduation of grade four kids from children's worship -• Pastors class meeting after church today -• Reactivate conference in September for youth -• Children's worship time changes for summer schedule -• Need volunteers for July food bank drive and pancake breakfast -• Contacting Maria or emailing licrc.ca for further assistance -• Worship service and prayer for a blessing -• Prayer for various needs: salvation, faith, encouragement, help, comfort, rest, inspiration -• Song and hymn singing: praise, glory, majesty, love, mercy, peace -• Jesus Christ as Lord, Savior, and name that is beautiful -• Name and praise of Jesus Christ -• Guitar solos -• Prayer and confession of sins -• Lord's Day 1 response: comfort in life and death is belonging to Jesus Christ -• Desire for spiritual connection and renewal -• Longing for a deeper relationship with God -• Worship and praise of God, including singing and music -• Introducing five grade four students graduating from Children's Worship Time -• Acknowledging their participation in the ministry over several years -• Inviting attendees who have been involved with the students' lives to stand -• Presenting each student with a Bible -• Inviting family, friends, and teachers to come forward for prayer -• A closing prayer for the graduating students -• Prayers for a church group -• Introduction to the offering for Night Shift Ministries -• Explanation of the involvement of the church in serving at the Surrey campus and the need for more volunteers -• Invitation to volunteer for the food truck ministry on the first Wednesday of every month -• Announcement of next week's offering for Cascades Christian Counseling -• Silent prayers led by a speaker -• Introduction and morning greeting -• Discussion of summer and school schedules -• Introducing Hank, a guest speaker -• Explaining the concept of teamwork with rock-paper-scissors game -• Discussing God's invitation to be part of his team -• Prayer for Children's Worship Time and the church -• Youth program convention and volunteering to help coordinate and lead it -• Breakfast service at H.D. Stafford School for students in the fall season -• Congregational meeting and finances of the church -• Night shift ministry and meal program at H.D. Stafford School -• Reactivate youth program this fall -• Prayer requests for various individuals including those with health concerns, grief, and relationships issues -• Summer vacations and protection for church members traveling -• Graduation from schools, Sunday school, and university -• The pastor leads in prayer for guidance and wisdom. -• The series on the Book of Romans is ending for now and will resume later. -• The congregation reads Romans 8:31-39 together. -• The pastor reflects on the passage, noting its importance and potential for being misunderstood or seen as clichéd. -• He expresses his desire to help the congregation understand and apply the message in a meaningful way. -• The speaker discusses Romans 8:31-39 and how Paul answers questions about being against God's will. -• Paul stacks layers of answers to demonstrate confidence in facing struggles, persecution, or darkness with faith. -• The text builds on the idea that if God is for us, who can be against us, and provides examples from Jesus' life and death. -• The speaker describes a courtroom drama image, where God's wrath and judgment are contrasted with Jesus as defense attorney and mediator. -• The power of the cross is emphasized, including Jesus' innocence, his death, and resurrection, which demonstrates the finality of sin's punishment. -• The devil has no real power to condemn or accuse spiritually and ontologically in the world. -• The speaker acknowledges the dark night of the soul experience and feeling like one is walking through life as a zombie due to feelings of inadequacy and fear -• The voice that says "you are fake" or "you are a fraud" can be overwhelming -• The speaker emphasizes that being in this church with other Christians is a safe place, despite everyone's struggles with faith -• Paul's confidence comes not from his own strength or faith but from the person of God -• God's presence and love give people confidence, conviction, and secure faith -• Jesus Christ is at the right hand of God interceding for us and exercising sovereign reign to the glory of God -• Jesus sits at the right hand of God and intercedes for believers -• The verb "intercede" is in the present tense, suggesting an ongoing action -• Jesus continues to stand in the gap between humanity and God, representing believers to the Father -• Prayer is a means by which Jesus works in and through believers -• In John 17, Jesus prayed for all his followers, including the listener -• Romans 8 states that Jesus continues to pray and intercede for his followers -• As believers pray, Jesus hears their prayers and speaks them to the Father -• The Holy Spirit lifts up believers' prayers like incense to heaven -• Prayer is a vital part of Christian faith and life -• A story about a woman who was told by God's voice to do a handstand in front of a pop machine illustrates obedience to God's promptings -• The listener is encouraged to pray and intercede for others, using their prayers as a means to achieve God's will. -• A person prayed for help, picked up a gun, and God answered by sending someone to distract the threat -• The speaker shares many stories of answered prayer and miraculous interventions in the community -• God is at work in people's lives, often visibly, through healing, hope, and community restoration -• Not all prayers are answered as expected, but God still hears and responds to our pleas -• Christ's eternal intercession means He is constantly representing us to the Father and supporting us in trials -• Separation from God's love -• Suffering and hardships mentioned (trouble, hardship, persecution, famine, nakedness, danger, sword) -• Response to suffering ("no" in Romans 8:35-39) -• Conquerors through Christ -• Inheritor of the kingdom as co-heir with Christ -• No separation from God's love due to death, life, angels, demons, present/future, or any powers -• God's love is powerful enough to separate us from all other powers -• Christians have been persecuted throughout history for holding this truth -• Knowing that God is for us gives us confidence and leads to bold action -• We are called to share this conviction with others, even if it costs us something -• Living out our faith in a post-Christian world requires a deep conviction of who God is and what He has done for us -• Jesus Christ has conquered sin and death -• God's kingdom coming in and around us -• Being conquerors through faith in Jesus Christ -• Praying for the power of the Spirit to serve others -• Witnessing God's goodness and gospel to others -• Resting in God alone as rock and salvation -• Redemption and salvation through God -• Trust in God amidst life's temptations and challenges -• The fleeting nature of wealth and material possessions -• The importance of setting one's heart on God and His love -• Faith and loyalty to God, even in difficult times -• Pouring out one's soul to God and trusting in His mercy -• World has been crushed by death -• Speaker is dead, but feels alive -• Praising God and their redeemer -• Talking to Matt about a mic check -• Inviting Matt and Nicole Woods on stage -• Introducing them as guests for the week -• Nicole's past work with youth ministry -• Her experience in Mexico leading a youth camp -• Troubles she got into during the camp -• Punishments and discipline that followed -• Personal anecdotes from the speaker's interactions with Nicole -• Nicole became a friend of the family and babysat their kids -• The church had some members leave for various reasons, leaving them short on drummers -• A call was made for someone to play drums, and Nicole's boyfriend suggested Matt -• Matt joined the team and has been playing drums and an integral part of the church ever since -• The church's live stream services -• IT team setting up online services -• Sound board changes made by Matt -• New congregation mics and speaker installed -• Removal of dead spots in the sound system -• Acknowledgment and thanks to Matt for his work -• Live stream worked out -• Coffee and fellowship will be available after the service -• A large quantity of Oreos was bought due to Nicole's preference -• The couple is being prayed for, including thanksgiving for their leadership in the church -• Discussion of their various roles and contributions to the church -• Praying for God's blessings on others -• Seeking guidance and protection from God -• Thanking God for existing things -• Inviting listeners to stand and receive God's blessing -• Finishing with a blessing from Jude, the words of God spoken directly to one's heart and life -• Receiving God's blessing and protection from stumbling and being presented before his glorious presence -• Worship of God in all ages -• Praise and glory to the Lamb -• Honor, power, and strength to God -• The redeemed shall be strong in purpose and unity -• Praise and glory with love and faith to God -• Glory and honor to God forever and ever \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 25, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 25, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 03c7360d4b0192438ce77b479569207d8a52eb63..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 25, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2657 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.22] Into the sky, nothing can stop me tonight -[2.22 --> 4.30] You make me feel invincible -[4.30 --> 6.30] Earthquake, powerful -[6.30 --> 8.58] Just like a tidal wave -[8.58 --> 9.96] You make me brave -[9.96 --> 11.88] You're my titanium -[11.88 --> 14.30] Pipe, so raise it up -[14.30 --> 16.66] Like the roar of victory -[16.66 --> 17.68] In a stadium -[17.68 --> 19.78] Who can touch me? -[19.84 --> 20.50] Cause I'm -[20.50 --> 24.24] Who can stop me tonight? -[26.08 --> 28.12] You make me feel -[28.12 --> 29.14] Invincible -[29.14 --> 31.66] I feel, I feel it -[31.66 --> 32.96] Invincible -[32.96 --> 35.50] I feel, I feel it -[35.50 --> 36.76] Invincible -[36.76 --> 38.88] Here we go again -[38.88 --> 40.94] I will not give in -[40.94 --> 43.54] I've got a reason to fight -[43.54 --> 46.60] Every day we choose -[46.60 --> 48.56] We might win or lose -[48.56 --> 51.34] This is the dangerous life -[51.34 --> 53.82] Hey, hey, hey -[53.82 --> 55.74] Every day when I wake -[55.74 --> 56.96] They say that I'm gone -[56.96 --> 58.06] They say that they've won -[58.06 --> 59.80] It's over and die -[59.80 --> 61.34] Hey, hey, hey -[61.34 --> 63.34] When I need to be saved -[63.34 --> 64.56] They're counting me out -[64.56 --> 65.68] But this is my round -[65.68 --> 66.48] You're my god -[66.48 --> 67.38] You're looking me out -[67.38 --> 68.34] Shot like a rocket -[68.34 --> 69.38] Up into the sky -[69.38 --> 70.80] Nothing can stop me tonight -[70.80 --> 71.84] You make me feel -[71.84 --> 72.96] Invincible -[72.96 --> 74.88] Earthquake, powerful -[74.88 --> 76.62] Just like a dynamite -[76.62 --> 78.50] You make me brave -[78.50 --> 80.44] You're my titanium -[80.44 --> 82.90] Fight so raise it up -[82.90 --> 85.22] Like the roar of victory -[85.22 --> 86.26] In a stadium -[86.26 --> 88.36] Who can touch me? -[88.40 --> 89.06] Cause I'm -[89.06 --> 92.84] Who can stop me tonight? -[94.20 --> 96.70] You make me feel -[96.70 --> 97.76] Invincible -[97.76 --> 100.22] I feel, I feel it -[100.22 --> 101.58] Invincible -[101.58 --> 104.04] I feel, I feel it -[104.04 --> 105.38] Invincible -[105.38 --> 120.66] Invincible -[120.66 --> 122.80] I make me feel -[122.80 --> 127.16] You make me feel -[127.16 --> 128.18] Invincible -[128.18 --> 131.00] You make me feel -[131.00 --> 132.02] Invincible -[132.02 --> 134.16] Charlotte could rock it up into the sky -[134.16 --> 135.06] Not gonna stop -[135.06 --> 135.82] Invincible -[135.82 --> 136.82] Invincible -[136.82 --> 137.82] Invincible -[137.82 --> 138.82] Invincible -[138.82 --> 139.64] Earthquake, powerful -[139.64 --> 140.82] Just like a dynamite -[140.82 --> 143.28] You make me brave -[143.28 --> 144.82] You're my titanium -[144.82 --> 147.66] Fight so raise it up -[147.66 --> 150.00] Like the roar of victory -[150.00 --> 150.98] In a stadium -[150.98 --> 152.92] Invincible -[152.92 --> 153.82] Invincible -[153.82 --> 154.82] Invincible -[154.82 --> 155.82] Invincible -[155.82 --> 156.82] Just like a dynamite -[156.82 --> 158.54] You make me brave -[158.54 --> 159.82] You're my titanium -[160.50 --> 162.88] Fight so raise it up -[162.88 --> 165.22] Like the roar of victory -[165.22 --> 166.22] And a stadium -[166.22 --> 168.36] Who can touch me? -[168.44 --> 169.06] Cause I'm -[169.06 --> 172.86] Who can stop me tonight? -[172.86 --> 172.88] Who can stop me tonight? -[174.20 --> 176.70] You make me feel -[176.70 --> 177.72] Invincible -[177.72 --> 180.22] I feel, I feel it -[180.22 --> 181.50] Invincible -[181.50 --> 184.06] I feel, I feel it -[184.06 --> 185.30] Invincible -[195.22 --> 196.22] Invincible -[196.22 --> 196.80] I feel, I feel it -[196.80 --> 197.22] Invincible -[197.22 --> 198.22] I feel, I feel it -[198.22 --> 199.22] Invincible -[199.22 --> 200.22] Invincible -[200.22 --> 201.22] Invincible -[201.22 --> 202.22] Invincible -[202.22 --> 203.22] Invincible -[203.22 --> 205.22] Invincible -[205.22 --> 206.22] Invincible -[206.22 --> 207.22] Invincible -[207.22 --> 208.22] Invincible -[208.22 --> 209.22] Invincible -[209.22 --> 210.22] Invincible -[210.22 --> 211.22] Invincible -[211.22 --> 212.22] Invincible -[212.22 --> 213.22] Invincible -[213.22 --> 215.22] Invincible -[215.22 --> 216.22] Invincible -[216.22 --> 217.22] Invincible -[217.22 --> 218.22] Invincible -[218.22 --> 218.68] Invincible -[218.68 --> 226.64] My heart bleeds adrenaline -[226.64 --> 231.38] The fire I breathe is where I live -[231.38 --> 235.18] Incredible and minimal -[235.18 --> 239.40] One life to live, I never give up, I never give in -[239.40 --> 243.10] Some people wanna turn and run -[243.10 --> 246.94] But the strong rise under the gun -[246.94 --> 250.38] Top, to the top, ain't never gonna stop -[250.38 --> 254.82] To the top, to the top, ain't never gonna stop -[254.82 --> 257.14] Never gonna keep me down -[257.14 --> 261.14] Still the one that's standing now -[261.14 --> 266.08] Destiny is calling me, you're down in history -[266.08 --> 268.80] Every day I fight to be -[268.80 --> 270.34] That you do me -[270.34 --> 281.42] Fly high or will I fall -[281.42 --> 285.26] Legends made when faith is strong -[285.26 --> 287.78] No time to bleed -[287.78 --> 291.22] I'm conquering, I'm conquering, I'm alive -[291.22 --> 293.66] I'll push through the pain, I'm up for the prize -[293.66 --> 297.28] Some people wanna turn and run -[297.28 --> 301.22] But the strong rise under the gun -[301.22 --> 304.56] Top, to the top, ain't never gonna stop -[304.56 --> 308.66] To the top, to the top, ain't never gonna stop -[308.66 --> 311.10] Never gonna keep me down -[311.10 --> 312.10] Never gonna keep me -[312.10 --> 312.62] Never gonna keep me -[312.62 --> 315.10] Still the one that's standing now -[315.10 --> 316.10] Never gonna keep me -[316.10 --> 316.60] Never gonna keep me -[316.60 --> 317.10] Still the one that's standing now -[317.10 --> 318.86] Destiny is calling me -[318.86 --> 320.30] You're down in history -[320.30 --> 323.02] Every day I fight to be -[323.02 --> 326.10] Every day I fight to be -[326.10 --> 330.78] Every day I fight to be -[330.78 --> 346.92] I'm conquering, I'm conquering, I'm conquering -[346.92 --> 350.36] Wings are made to fly, made to fly -[350.36 --> 354.20] Fears are born to die, born to die -[354.20 --> 358.10] Pushing through the pain, through the pain -[358.10 --> 361.12] Pushing through, breaking through -[361.12 --> 363.14] Whatever it takes, what I gotta do -[363.14 --> 365.06] Giving my all, giving all that I've got -[365.06 --> 366.96] Never will stop till I get to the top -[366.96 --> 370.36] Top, to the top, ain't never gonna stop -[370.36 --> 374.80] To the top, to the top, ain't never gonna stop -[374.80 --> 377.16] Never gonna keep me down -[377.16 --> 378.54] Never gonna keep me -[378.54 --> 381.14] Still the one that's standing now -[381.14 --> 384.60] Destiny is calling me -[384.60 --> 386.08] You're down in history -[386.08 --> 388.84] Every day I fight to be -[388.84 --> 390.22] You're down in history -[390.22 --> 392.08] Never gonna keep me -[392.08 --> 393.82] Never gonna keep me -[393.82 --> 396.34] Still the one that's standing now -[396.34 --> 400.08] Destiny is calling me -[400.08 --> 401.56] You're down in history -[401.56 --> 404.28] Every day I fight to be -[404.28 --> 405.86] You're down in history -[405.86 --> 413.82] You're down in history -[413.82 --> 427.88] God, I fight to be -[430.96 --> 431.72] You're down in history -[431.72 --> 433.28] り域にさ Conceptual -[433.28 --> 449.04] When I open my eyes, I can't believe it -[449.04 --> 453.48] How the world can look so different than we were dreaming -[453.48 --> 458.84] It's getting harder to say, I'm undefeated -[458.84 --> 463.60] When the best my heart can hope for is breaking even -[463.60 --> 468.02] Here and now, reaching out in my heart -[468.02 --> 472.86] I don't know how, but I know I'm not alone -[472.86 --> 479.58] I can face my darkest night, cause I trust you with my life -[479.58 --> 484.60] I'm not afraid for you, you're my refuge -[484.60 --> 489.70] When there's heavy on my chest, you're the place I catch my breath -[489.70 --> 494.74] You are the only one I hold on to -[494.74 --> 499.50] Oh, cause you are my refuge -[499.50 --> 505.92] I know how this ends, I'm gonna make it -[505.92 --> 510.58] Your word is in my heart, none could ever take it -[510.58 --> 516.22] Here and now, in the south, come and fill me with your power -[516.22 --> 519.14] Let me know I'm not alone -[519.14 --> 525.06] I can face my darkest night, cause I trust you with my life -[525.06 --> 530.16] I'm not afraid for you, you're my refuge -[530.16 --> 535.16] When you set me on my chest, you're the place I catch my breath -[535.16 --> 540.16] You are the only one I hold on to -[540.16 --> 545.40] Every day in darkest night, I trust you at all times -[545.40 --> 550.32] I'm not afraid for you, you're my refuge -[550.32 --> 555.42] And when I've got nothing left, you're the place I find my rest -[555.42 --> 559.88] You are the only one that I run to -[559.88 --> 565.00] Yes, you are my refuge -[565.00 --> 569.48] You're my rest, you're my rock, you're my fortress -[569.48 --> 575.12] You're my strength, you're my shield, and you're my defense -[575.12 --> 580.08] Nothing can ever take me from you -[580.08 --> 585.18] Nothing's ever gonna take me from you -[585.18 --> 590.82] I can face my darkest night, cause I trust you with my life -[590.82 --> 595.68] I'm not afraid for you, you're my refuge -[595.68 --> 600.84] When you set me on my chest, you're the place I catch my breath -[600.84 --> 605.36] You are the only one I hold on to -[605.36 --> 611.10] Every day in darkest night, I trust you at all times -[611.10 --> 614.90] I'm not afraid for you, you're my refuge -[614.90 --> 621.12] And when I've got nothing left, you're the place I find my rest -[621.12 --> 625.14] You are the only one that I run to -[625.14 --> 628.98] Good morning -[628.98 --> 629.26] Good morning -[630.84 --> 633.66] Welcome to worship -[633.66 --> 635.70] Can you hear me okay? -[637.06 --> 639.22] Some of you say no, some of you say yes -[639.22 --> 644.04] Not coming through -[644.04 --> 644.68] We're working -[644.68 --> 647.32] Oh, sounds like we're getting something -[647.32 --> 649.42] No? -[649.74 --> 651.44] There, there we go -[651.44 --> 652.02] Good morning! -[653.86 --> 656.40] Welcome to church -[656.40 --> 658.58] If you're visiting with us this morning -[658.58 --> 661.08] Let me offer a special welcome to you -[661.08 --> 661.92] My name is Chris -[661.92 --> 664.64] I'm one of the pastors here -[664.64 --> 668.26] And it's my privilege to be leading you -[668.26 --> 671.06] Along with a few others in our worship this morning -[671.06 --> 673.34] We have a special service as we're -[673.34 --> 678.54] Graduating our grade four kids out of children's worship time -[678.54 --> 683.42] Into the ordinary worshiping life of this church -[683.42 --> 687.24] And so we're excited for that part of our service together -[687.24 --> 691.66] Before we begin, there are a couple announcements to make -[691.66 --> 694.64] And so I'm going to get Emo to start making his way to the front -[694.64 --> 696.08] He's going to jump on the mic for the -[696.08 --> 698.20] For an announcement -[698.20 --> 700.42] But I also just wanted to say that -[700.42 --> 704.52] Pastors class has one more meeting after church today -[704.52 --> 707.10] And so if you've been in pastors class -[707.10 --> 708.58] We encourage you to stick around -[708.58 --> 712.20] Following worship today for just under an hour -[712.20 --> 714.38] As we'll conclude that time together -[714.38 --> 719.12] Also, the reactivate conference -[719.12 --> 720.64] Which is happening in September -[720.64 --> 723.66] The sign up for youth has gone out for that -[723.66 --> 726.04] And so youth and parents of youth -[726.04 --> 728.30] You've seen that somewhere probably -[728.30 --> 731.54] Make sure you sign up your kids for that -[731.54 --> 736.64] And lastly, as we're anticipating our summer schedule -[736.64 --> 739.16] Beginning in regularity next week -[739.16 --> 741.98] Our children's worship time changes -[741.98 --> 743.96] From preschool to grade four -[743.96 --> 747.20] To ages three through five -[747.20 --> 749.00] Have a group that they can go -[749.00 --> 751.18] But we need five more teachers -[751.18 --> 753.20] Mostly for August -[753.20 --> 755.74] And so if you're around in August -[755.74 --> 758.00] We would love for you to sign up for that -[758.00 --> 759.90] You can ask Amy if you have any questions -[759.90 --> 762.08] She's at the children's worship time booth now -[762.08 --> 763.32] But she would love to field that -[763.32 --> 765.32] If you get the bulletin from us -[765.32 --> 766.76] The e-bulletin that goes out -[766.76 --> 769.84] There's also a link in there to sign up at that -[769.84 --> 772.48] Emo, why don't you grab a mic -[772.48 --> 780.06] Good morning -[780.06 --> 784.06] As you've probably read in your e-bulletin for today -[784.06 --> 788.68] You've noticed that we have another July food bank drive -[788.68 --> 791.80] Starting on July 9th -[791.80 --> 793.96] We'll be delivering the empty bags -[793.96 --> 796.90] Into our Murrayville neighborhood -[796.90 --> 798.36] Like last year -[798.36 --> 802.90] Then on Saturday, July 15th -[802.90 --> 804.06] We'll be -[804.06 --> 807.56] All the bags will be returned to the church -[807.56 --> 810.82] And we'll hold a pancake breakfast -[810.82 --> 813.50] And have a bouncy castle -[813.50 --> 816.40] And other children's and adult venues -[816.40 --> 818.46] On that day -[818.46 --> 822.00] In order to make that happen -[822.00 --> 823.16] We need volunteers -[823.16 --> 824.96] To come forward -[824.96 --> 828.92] To set up -[828.92 --> 831.52] We'll have volunteers for the set up -[831.52 --> 836.38] Which is between 7 a.m. and 9.30 -[836.38 --> 839.88] And then the takedown crew -[839.88 --> 841.82] Will be from 9.30 -[841.82 --> 843.80] Till quarter after 11 -[843.80 --> 844.94] No, sorry -[844.94 --> 846.26] Quarter to 12 -[846.26 --> 849.92] There are two sign up sheets -[849.92 --> 851.10] In the foyer -[851.10 --> 854.02] One for the set up -[854.02 --> 855.22] And one for the takedown -[855.22 --> 858.04] And there are also -[858.04 --> 860.04] Volunteer sheets -[860.04 --> 864.12] E-sheets -[864.12 --> 865.96] On the e-bulletin -[865.96 --> 868.20] Under the food bank drive -[868.20 --> 870.68] That you can sign up on as well -[870.68 --> 874.80] If you're electronically smart -[874.80 --> 877.62] I encourage you to participate -[877.62 --> 879.92] In this cause -[879.92 --> 883.56] In a Christ-like compassion -[883.56 --> 885.04] For the poor in our community -[885.04 --> 886.06] Thank you -[886.06 --> 887.00] Have a great Sunday -[890.04 --> 893.96] Mindful of the fact -[893.96 --> 894.90] That even as we make -[894.90 --> 895.62] These announcements -[895.62 --> 896.54] We reference there -[896.54 --> 897.42] The e-bulletin -[897.42 --> 898.42] A couple times -[898.42 --> 899.46] Some of you may not know -[899.46 --> 899.98] What that is -[899.98 --> 901.10] And so -[901.10 --> 902.10] Instead of getting -[902.10 --> 903.40] A huge worship folder -[903.40 --> 904.66] When you come to us on Sunday -[904.66 --> 905.76] We email out -[905.76 --> 906.68] An e-bulletin -[906.68 --> 907.66] To people -[907.66 --> 908.56] And so if you would like -[908.56 --> 909.62] To receive that -[909.62 --> 911.16] I encourage you to connect -[911.16 --> 911.96] With the office -[911.96 --> 913.48] You can get Maria there -[913.48 --> 914.76] You can email -[914.76 --> 915.56] Communications -[915.56 --> 917.42] At licrc.ca -[917.42 --> 918.50] And they will add you -[918.50 --> 919.26] To that list -[919.26 --> 919.90] If you have questions -[919.90 --> 920.38] About that -[920.38 --> 921.32] Talk to me -[921.32 --> 922.20] Or Pastor Kevin -[922.20 --> 923.44] And we'll help -[923.44 --> 924.56] Get you set there -[924.56 --> 926.50] Let's stand together -[926.50 --> 928.42] We can begin our worship -[928.42 --> 934.66] In the presence of God -[934.66 --> 937.12] And with the church of Jesus -[937.12 --> 939.32] We gather in his name -[939.32 --> 940.76] To sing his praises -[940.76 --> 941.84] And to hear from him -[941.84 --> 944.58] And God meets us together -[944.58 --> 946.06] Receive the greeting -[946.06 --> 947.10] Of our God -[947.10 --> 948.88] Grace -[948.88 --> 949.64] Mercy -[949.64 --> 950.32] Mercy -[950.32 --> 951.54] Peace to you -[951.54 --> 952.78] From God our Father -[952.78 --> 954.28] From the Lord Jesus Christ -[954.28 --> 954.82] His Son -[954.82 --> 955.58] And our Savior -[955.58 --> 956.72] Through the presence -[956.72 --> 957.30] And power -[957.30 --> 958.52] Of the Holy Spirit -[958.52 --> 959.94] Amen -[959.94 --> 961.74] As God has welcomed us -[961.74 --> 962.20] Into worship -[962.20 --> 963.68] Invite those around you -[963.68 --> 965.02] And welcome them as well -[965.02 --> 989.62] unagell -[989.62 --> 1000.84] Good morning. -[1002.42 --> 1007.34] Please bow your heads with me as we pray for a blessing on this morning's worship service. -[1008.96 --> 1013.44] Almighty God, we pray for your blessing on the church in this place. -[1014.16 --> 1017.88] Here may the faithful find salvation and the careless be awakened. -[1017.88 --> 1022.42] Here may the doubting find faith and may the anxious be encouraged. -[1023.16 --> 1027.00] Here may the tempted find help and the sorrowful find comfort. -[1027.86 --> 1030.78] Here may the weary find rest and the strong be renewed. -[1031.40 --> 1034.44] Here may the aged find consolation and the young be inspired. -[1035.06 --> 1037.12] Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. -[1047.88 --> 1054.76] I'm refuge with me. -[1054.76 --> 1061.28] I'm going to enter in your heaven and earth. -[1061.28 --> 1070.36] I travel in your holy desert. -[1070.78 --> 1077.06] Glory, glory in your sanctuary. -[1077.06 --> 1090.28] His wonder and majesty, Lord, before you alive, adore you. -[1090.28 --> 1099.50] All the earth will repent that your love is everywhere. -[1099.50 --> 1108.50] Your fields will return, feasting down. -[1111.38 --> 1115.50] Hear the trees, joyful crowd. -[1116.90 --> 1120.50] Praising you, so will I. -[1120.50 --> 1126.50] A new song I'll sing. -[1126.92 --> 1134.32] Lord, I will glorify and bless your holy name. -[1134.32 --> 1138.32] Amen. -[1141.32 --> 1142.32] Amen. -[1143.14 --> 1150.02] Jesus, Lord of all life and salvation. -[1151.22 --> 1154.76] Into your presence we call. -[1154.76 --> 1160.76] We worship the new God. -[1161.86 --> 1163.58] Let us sing. -[1163.76 --> 1165.76] Now tell us. -[1166.76 --> 1170.76] Tell us with your holy power. -[1172.14 --> 1175.76] Set us to bring your love. -[1177.04 --> 1178.76] Tell nations. -[1178.76 --> 1182.76] I'll know your glory. -[1182.76 --> 1187.76] All the earth will declare. -[1188.76 --> 1192.76] That your love is everywhere. -[1194.76 --> 1200.76] The fields will end on, season's time. -[1200.76 --> 1202.76] A new song I'll sing. -[1202.76 --> 1205.76] A new song I'll sing. -[1205.76 --> 1212.76] Lord, I will glorify and bless your holy name. -[1212.76 --> 1217.76] A new song I'll sing. -[1217.76 --> 1225.76] Lord, I will glorify and bless your holy name. -[1225.76 --> 1238.76] Glorify and bless your holy name. -[1255.76 --> 1275.76] You were the word of love you gave. -[1275.76 --> 1285.76] One with God, the Lord most high. -[1286.76 --> 1291.76] In glory and creation. -[1292.76 --> 1299.76] Now revealed in you, our Christ. -[1299.76 --> 1303.76] What a beautiful name it is. -[1303.76 --> 1307.76] What a beautiful name it is. -[1307.76 --> 1314.76] The name of Jesus Christ, my Lord. -[1315.76 --> 1319.76] What a beautiful name it is. -[1320.76 --> 1322.76] Nothing compares to this. -[1322.76 --> 1324.76] What a beautiful name it is. -[1324.76 --> 1326.76] What a beautiful name it is. -[1326.76 --> 1329.76] The name of Jesus. -[1329.76 --> 1330.76] What a beautiful name it is. -[1330.76 --> 1332.76] The name of Jesus. -[1337.76 --> 1342.76] Didn't walk an end without us. -[1343.76 --> 1349.76] Jesus, you are never now. -[1349.76 --> 1352.76] When sin was raised, your love was revealed. -[1352.76 --> 1356.76] When sin was raised, your love was revealed. -[1356.76 --> 1357.76] When sin was raised, your love was revealed. -[1358.76 --> 1363.76] Why could summer in us now? -[1364.76 --> 1367.76] What a beautiful name it is. -[1367.76 --> 1370.76] What a beautiful name it is. -[1370.76 --> 1378.76] The name of Jesus Christ, my King. -[1378.76 --> 1379.76] What a beautiful name it is. -[1379.76 --> 1380.76] tiếnghting it. -[1380.76 --> 1382.86] What a wonderful name it is. -[1383.76 --> 1384.76] What a wonderful name it is. -[1384.76 --> 1385.76] The name of Jesus Christ, my Lord. -[1385.76 --> 1388.76] Many spells rose at theest, the name of God. -[1388.76 --> 1389.76] 29. -[1389.76 --> 1391.76] Lord Jesus Christ, my Mary. -[1391.76 --> 1393.76] What a wonderful name it is. -[1393.76 --> 1394.76] purchasing Holzham today. -[1394.76 --> 1396.76] What a wonderful name it is. -[1396.76 --> 1397.76] What a wonderful name it is. -[1397.76 --> 1398.76] What a wonderful name it is. -[1399.76 --> 1403.76] The name of Jesus Christ, my Lions. -[1403.76 --> 1433.74] guitar solo -[1433.74 --> 1463.72] guitar solo -[1463.74 --> 1493.72] guitar solo -[1493.74 --> 1523.72] guitar solo -[1523.72 --> 1553.70] guitar solo -[1553.72 --> 1583.70] guitar solo -[1583.70 --> 1585.70] guitar solo -[1585.70 --> 1592.58] I invite you to be seated. -[1596.90 --> 1598.68] Death could not hold you. -[1599.72 --> 1601.38] The veil tore before you. -[1602.26 --> 1605.00] You silence the boast of sin and grave. -[1606.04 --> 1607.70] He silences our sin -[1607.70 --> 1609.54] when we come to him in confession. -[1610.20 --> 1612.02] He silences our sin. -[1612.02 --> 1614.46] He wipes it out, covers it up. -[1615.32 --> 1617.46] He blots them out and sweeps them away. -[1618.00 --> 1619.78] We all need this forgiveness. -[1620.88 --> 1623.12] Let us come before him now in silent prayer -[1623.12 --> 1625.12] and offer our confessions to him. -[1625.12 --> 1626.12] Thank you. -[1655.12 --> 1656.04] Hear the good news. -[1685.12 --> 1686.04] Live a renewed life. -[1686.04 --> 1686.36] Live a renewed life. -[1686.36 --> 1687.78] Thanks be to God. -[1687.78 --> 1697.00] Please rise and say in response the answer to Lord's Day 1. -[1697.00 --> 1705.70] The question is, what is your only comfort in life and in death? -[1705.70 --> 1716.28] That I am not my own, but I belong, but I belong, body and soul, in life and in death, to my faithful Savior, Jesus Christ. -[1717.12 --> 1725.98] He also has paid for all my sins with his precious blood, and has set me free from the tyranny of the devil. -[1725.98 --> 1735.32] He also watches over me in such a way that not my hair can fall from my head without the will of my Father in heaven. -[1736.08 --> 1739.98] In fact, all things must work together for my salvation. -[1739.98 --> 1747.82] Because I belong to him, Christ by his Holy Spirit assures me of eternal life, -[1747.82 --> 1753.90] and makes me wholeheartedly willing and ready from now on to live for him. -[1769.98 --> 1799.96] I belong to you, Christ by his Holy Spirit assures me of eternal life, -[1799.96 --> 1809.00] How I want to be there once again. -[1809.00 --> 1817.40] By the flow that the word can bring up and the flame, -[1818.22 --> 1821.72] Till nothing between us remains, -[1822.82 --> 1826.60] My life is an altar to you. -[1826.60 --> 1836.22] Freedom, freedom, freedom, freedom, freedom, all the efforts that burn in my heart, -[1836.94 --> 1840.52] A love taken back to the town, -[1841.64 --> 1845.48] My life is an altar to you. -[1845.48 --> 1847.64] Oh, my life is an altar to you. -[1847.64 --> 1855.22] Need a pure and willing spirit, -[1855.22 --> 1864.76] Take me back to where it all began. -[1866.82 --> 1872.68] For it all began, so God began. -[1872.68 --> 1882.02] How I long to be there once again -[1882.02 --> 1891.28] Light a fire that the world can't burn and mend the flames -[1891.28 --> 1895.72] Till nothing between us remains -[1895.72 --> 1899.96] My life is an altar to you -[1899.96 --> 1908.96] We live on the earth where that burn in my heart -[1909.82 --> 1913.96] A love taken back to the sky -[1913.96 --> 1918.96] My life is an altar to you -[1918.96 --> 1928.96] I'm sorry, please forgive me -[1928.96 --> 1934.96] For when I've gone home -[1934.96 --> 1937.96] Lord, I need you -[1937.96 --> 1942.96] How I need you -[1942.96 --> 1948.96] To obey my soul -[1948.96 --> 1951.96] Lord, I need you -[1951.96 --> 1955.96] How the world can't burn and mend the flames -[1955.96 --> 1959.96] Till nothing between us remains -[1959.96 --> 1964.96] My life is an altar to you -[1964.96 --> 1973.96] We live on the earth where that burn in my heart -[1973.96 --> 1978.96] A love taken back to the sky -[1978.96 --> 1983.96] My life is an altar to you -[1983.96 --> 1995.96] And all the earth will shout your praise -[1995.96 --> 2012.96] Our hearts will dry, these bones will sing -[2012.96 --> 2017.96] Great are you, Lord -[2017.96 --> 2019.96] Great are you, Lord -[2019.96 --> 2026.96] And all the earth will shout your praise -[2026.96 --> 2031.96] Our hearts will dry, these bones will sing -[2031.96 --> 2037.96] Great are you, Lord -[2037.96 --> 2042.96] Great are you, Lord -[2042.96 --> 2043.96] And all the earth will shout your praise -[2043.96 --> 2046.96] Our hearts will dry, these bones will sing -[2046.96 --> 2047.96] Great are you, Lord -[2047.96 --> 2058.96] And all the earth will shout your praise -[2058.96 --> 2060.96] Your heart will burn in our hearts -[2060.96 --> 2064.96] And all the earth will sing -[2064.96 --> 2070.96] Great are you, Lord -[2070.96 --> 2072.96] In your heart, in our hearts -[2072.96 --> 2075.96] So we pour out our praise -[2075.96 --> 2082.64] You only is your breath in our lungs -[2082.64 --> 2087.86] So we pour out our praise, pour out our praise -[2087.86 --> 2091.80] You only is your breath in our lungs -[2091.80 --> 2096.78] So we pour out our praise, you only -[2105.96 --> 2115.36] God of glory, please forgive me -[2115.36 --> 2124.58] For when I'm on call, Lord, I need you -[2124.58 --> 2135.94] How I need you to awake my soul -[2135.96 --> 2160.76] I would love to invite a few grade four students over -[2160.76 --> 2164.66] because today is the last day that these grade fours -[2164.66 --> 2166.40] will be going to Children's Worship Time -[2166.40 --> 2170.78] and so in essence, they're graduating out of the Children's Worship Time ministry -[2170.78 --> 2181.14] so I would love to invite Zoe Hubertz, Amara Hogawoning, Julia Klein-Geltink, Caleb Verkike, and Austin Nordam up to the front -[2181.14 --> 2186.36] and Joel Trummell is also one of these grade four students -[2186.36 --> 2187.12] but he's not here today -[2187.12 --> 2188.72] so we'll remember Joel as well -[2188.72 --> 2196.26] but these five lovely folks have been in Children's Worship Time for quite a while -[2196.26 --> 2197.18] but today's the last day -[2197.18 --> 2198.92] are we excited about that? -[2198.92 --> 2200.92] are we sad about that? -[2200.92 --> 2202.92] sad -[2202.92 --> 2203.30] it's good to be sad -[2203.30 --> 2206.30] that's good, that means it's been a good ministry for you, right? -[2206.30 --> 2207.92] now I thought we should acknowledge them today -[2207.92 --> 2209.92] so why don't we give them a round of applause -[2209.92 --> 2215.94] now you five up here -[2215.94 --> 2217.36] I want to show you something pretty cool -[2217.36 --> 2220.28] when you were baptized as little kids -[2220.28 --> 2222.48] the church promised to do a few things -[2222.48 --> 2224.46] all of these people out there promised -[2224.46 --> 2226.06] that they would pray for you -[2226.06 --> 2227.46] that they would encourage you -[2227.46 --> 2228.62] that they would lead you -[2228.62 --> 2229.66] and that they would teach you -[2229.66 --> 2233.54] and I want to now invite anybody in the church -[2233.54 --> 2237.24] who has been a part of these five kids' lives -[2237.24 --> 2238.48] in Children's Worship Time -[2238.48 --> 2239.52] maybe you were a coordinator -[2239.52 --> 2240.52] a large group leader -[2240.52 --> 2241.52] a small group leader -[2241.52 --> 2243.20] if you taught them at all -[2243.20 --> 2245.88] over the last five years -[2245.88 --> 2247.26] six years, seven years -[2247.26 --> 2248.20] preschool and up -[2248.20 --> 2250.30] please stand right now for just a moment -[2250.30 --> 2252.94] so we can see you all out there -[2252.94 --> 2253.58] please do -[2253.58 --> 2256.68] over the last seven years -[2256.68 --> 2258.62] I think there's more of you -[2258.62 --> 2260.44] I think there's a lot of you that are sitting still -[2260.44 --> 2261.80] but there's a lot of people -[2261.80 --> 2262.64] now how about this -[2262.64 --> 2264.06] if there's any GEMS leaders -[2264.06 --> 2264.98] cadet leaders -[2264.98 --> 2266.92] anybody in Europe out there -[2266.92 --> 2268.66] who has taught these kids -[2268.66 --> 2269.56] please rise -[2269.56 --> 2273.10] and this is what the community of believers is -[2273.10 --> 2273.66] which is wonderful -[2273.66 --> 2275.38] so thank you all for that as well -[2275.38 --> 2279.32] I'm going to invite Mrs. Hubert's here -[2279.32 --> 2280.24] Mrs. Amy -[2280.24 --> 2282.04] she has a gift for all of you -[2282.04 --> 2284.16] we're going to give you kids a Bible -[2284.16 --> 2286.48] and so now when you're sitting in church -[2286.48 --> 2287.60] with all the big kids -[2287.60 --> 2290.36] you have a Bible of your own -[2290.36 --> 2292.50] that you can read when Pastor Chris is preaching -[2292.50 --> 2294.58] you can look at the verses that he's preaching on -[2294.58 --> 2296.82] and you can see that there -[2296.82 --> 2298.32] so she's going to pass those out to you right now -[2298.32 --> 2311.04] alright and then one last step -[2311.04 --> 2314.28] can I get you five to step a little further out -[2314.28 --> 2315.96] like right here in a nice line -[2315.96 --> 2318.04] and I'm going to invite any family -[2318.04 --> 2319.32] and any teachers -[2319.32 --> 2321.60] and anybody who feels like they want to -[2321.60 --> 2322.32] to come forward -[2322.32 --> 2324.16] and we're going to pray for you today -[2324.16 --> 2326.80] as you go into your final children's worship time -[2326.80 --> 2330.32] and then join everybody in church on Sunday -[2330.32 --> 2330.86] going forward -[2330.86 --> 2332.70] so come on forward family, friends -[2332.70 --> 2334.92] teachers, children's worship time -[2334.92 --> 2336.30] kids even -[2336.30 --> 2337.66] if you want to come and pray for them -[2337.66 --> 2338.82] come on forward right now -[2338.82 --> 2356.48] alright let's pray -[2356.48 --> 2359.78] Father God we thank you so much -[2359.78 --> 2361.80] for the children's ministry in this church -[2361.80 --> 2363.60] and for the blessing it is -[2363.60 --> 2365.70] to all of the kids in this congregation -[2365.70 --> 2368.48] and Lord we think especially of these five right now -[2368.48 --> 2371.36] for Julia, Amara, for Zoe, for Caleb -[2371.36 --> 2372.04] and for Austin -[2372.04 --> 2374.22] we thank you that they have been a part of our ministry -[2374.22 --> 2376.34] and that they have been a part of children's worship time -[2376.34 --> 2376.90] for so long -[2376.90 --> 2377.76] and we just pray God -[2377.76 --> 2378.92] that they continue now -[2378.92 --> 2380.14] to grow in you -[2380.14 --> 2382.86] allow them to have a great day today -[2382.86 --> 2384.58] and as we go forward -[2384.58 --> 2385.40] and they sit in church -[2385.40 --> 2386.70] God may they continue to -[2386.70 --> 2388.00] persevere for you -[2388.00 --> 2390.34] may they seek you first above all things God -[2390.34 --> 2391.12] and we just pray -[2391.12 --> 2393.54] that the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ -[2393.54 --> 2394.62] and the love of God -[2394.62 --> 2396.34] and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit -[2396.34 --> 2397.54] will be with them -[2397.54 --> 2399.74] we pray this all in your son's name -[2399.74 --> 2400.78] amen -[2400.78 --> 2402.50] alright -[2402.50 --> 2404.56] we can have a seat -[2404.56 --> 2406.92] and it is time for the offering -[2406.92 --> 2419.10] so the offering today is for Night Shift Ministries -[2419.10 --> 2422.80] and Yap who is going to come up to finish off as a deacon -[2422.80 --> 2423.88] because I am not a deacon -[2423.88 --> 2426.06] asked if I could say a couple things -[2426.06 --> 2428.26] because I am one of the volunteers -[2428.26 --> 2430.04] from our church -[2430.04 --> 2431.58] as well as through Benchmark -[2431.58 --> 2433.80] that serves here in Langley -[2433.80 --> 2436.04] so Night Shift Ministries is based in Surrey -[2436.04 --> 2437.56] and there has been a group from this community -[2437.56 --> 2438.66] on their own -[2438.66 --> 2440.88] who have gone for years to the Surrey campus -[2440.88 --> 2442.80] and helped serve the hungry -[2442.80 --> 2444.12] in that neighborhood -[2444.12 --> 2447.32] but for the last couple of years -[2447.32 --> 2450.32] our church has been involved -[2450.32 --> 2451.72] once every other month -[2451.72 --> 2452.76] here in Langley -[2452.76 --> 2454.14] right beside the Vineyard Church -[2454.14 --> 2455.90] serving out of a food truck -[2455.90 --> 2460.10] to anywhere from 40 to 80 people -[2460.10 --> 2462.16] that might come out on a Wednesday night -[2462.16 --> 2464.44] and so that's been really a blessing -[2464.44 --> 2465.94] for those that have been involved -[2465.94 --> 2467.64] it's obviously been a blessing -[2467.64 --> 2469.28] for those that are being fed -[2469.28 --> 2472.70] but we're needing some more volunteers -[2472.70 --> 2475.06] because we're looking to up that to every month -[2475.06 --> 2477.12] so every first Wednesday of the month -[2477.12 --> 2479.14] to serve here in Langley -[2479.14 --> 2481.54] the food is taken care of -[2481.54 --> 2485.22] by those that are leading it -[2485.22 --> 2487.34] so it's really just to show up -[2487.34 --> 2488.04] and help serve -[2488.04 --> 2489.88] it's not preparing the food -[2489.88 --> 2493.30] and yeah it's a wonderful experience -[2493.30 --> 2494.76] and so I really encourage you -[2494.76 --> 2497.40] if you are interested in helping out in that way -[2497.40 --> 2499.22] it's a real blessing -[2499.22 --> 2500.92] it's not too early -[2500.92 --> 2503.62] it's like 6.45 to 8.15 -[2503.62 --> 2505.92] on the first Wednesday of every month -[2505.92 --> 2508.18] and there already are some -[2508.18 --> 2509.06] but we need some more -[2509.06 --> 2510.38] so if you are interested -[2510.38 --> 2511.12] you can talk to me -[2511.12 --> 2512.40] or you can talk to Susan Stam -[2512.40 --> 2514.58] who's really heading it up for our church -[2514.58 --> 2517.04] and please come out -[2517.04 --> 2517.62] it'd be great -[2517.62 --> 2518.94] over to you -[2518.94 --> 2522.80] thank you Leslie -[2522.80 --> 2525.04] next week's offering -[2525.04 --> 2527.64] will be for Cascades Christian Counseling -[2527.64 --> 2528.36] thank you -[2528.36 --> 2543.00] to death -[2543.00 --> 2555.04] to death -[2555.04 --> 2559.94] this month -[2561.10 --> 2564.56] is -[2564.56 --> 2565.36] to the law -[2565.36 --> 2565.52] the world -[2565.52 --> 2566.74] has -[2566.82 --> 2567.44] come out -[2567.44 --> 2568.48] in the -[2568.48 --> 2569.40] .. -[2569.40 --> 2569.88] the Nik -[2569.88 --> 2570.68] is -[2572.80 --> 2573.14] your -[2573.14 --> 2574.16] is -[2574.16 --> 2586.42] I will come, I will come, I will come, Lord, and lead to the blood, to the blood, to the poor and the poor. -[2586.42 --> 2595.42] And let it be my hand, I will pray within your hands, I will come, I will close and be. -[2595.42 --> 2620.40] Votes are yours, God, I will come, I will close and be You. -[2620.40 --> 2646.40] is -[2650.40 --> 2659.84] I want to live for you, the way you need me. I want to follow you. -[2661.84 --> 2670.50] I want to live for you, the way you need me. I want to follow you. -[2670.50 --> 2681.18] I want to live for you, the way you need me. I want to follow you. -[2682.54 --> 2693.50] I will go, I will go, I will go, Lord, send me to the world, to the lost, to the poor and high. -[2693.50 --> 2702.22] I want to take everything I am. I will wave within your hands. I will go, I will go, send me. -[2704.10 --> 2713.36] I will go, I will go, send me. I will go, I will go, send me. -[2713.36 --> 2725.60] And now I would love to invite all of the kids forward who are heading to Children's Worship Time today. -[2725.74 --> 2727.60] Come on up to the front. -[2727.60 --> 2744.02] Good morning, everyone. -[2747.52 --> 2748.44] Good morning. -[2748.82 --> 2750.48] Good morning, everyone. -[2751.12 --> 2752.86] Good morning, how's it going to happen? -[2752.92 --> 2754.84] Let's try it in the church. Good morning, church. -[2755.12 --> 2756.28] Good morning. -[2756.28 --> 2759.62] See how loud they were? That was great. -[2759.70 --> 2760.54] How are we doing today? -[2760.96 --> 2762.24] Are we liking summer? -[2762.64 --> 2764.66] Who here still has a little bit of school left? -[2765.42 --> 2766.82] Who here is done school? -[2767.64 --> 2769.06] Oh, we are so close, hey? -[2769.84 --> 2774.76] We are going to go to Children's Worship Time, but I do have a friend with me, but he's not here. -[2774.84 --> 2775.56] Do you know where he is? -[2776.60 --> 2778.56] We've got some... -[2778.56 --> 2783.62] You know what? We've got teamwork happening today, -[2783.62 --> 2786.38] so you guys say, come on out, Hank. -[2786.80 --> 2787.88] Come on out, Hank. -[2788.88 --> 2789.48] Here he comes. -[2790.30 --> 2794.18] Hi, kids. -[2794.58 --> 2795.44] Hi, kids. -[2795.44 --> 2799.30] That is what teamwork looks like. -[2799.30 --> 2800.30] Hank. -[2800.30 --> 2803.14] We are going to talk about what it means to be a part of God's team. -[2803.56 --> 2803.76] Yeah. -[2803.92 --> 2804.90] We're going to do that today. -[2805.56 --> 2807.10] And so I have a question for you, Hank. -[2807.28 --> 2807.64] Mm-hmm. -[2808.14 --> 2810.84] Have you ever been a part of a team? -[2811.32 --> 2811.68] Yeah. -[2812.32 --> 2813.64] Oh, I wonder what team he's been on. -[2813.64 --> 2814.82] What team have you played for? -[2815.16 --> 2817.52] A rock, paper, scissors team. -[2818.52 --> 2820.06] Rock, paper, scissors team? -[2820.06 --> 2821.00] I've never even heard that. -[2821.24 --> 2822.62] It's very fun. -[2822.92 --> 2824.42] How do you even do that, Hank? -[2824.78 --> 2825.46] What do you mean? -[2825.94 --> 2827.30] How do you do rock, paper, scissors? -[2827.82 --> 2830.26] You make a rock or a paper or a scissors, -[2830.62 --> 2832.60] and then if you win, you win. -[2832.60 --> 2834.66] We're going to do this. -[2835.66 --> 2838.78] Why don't I play against Malachi quick? -[2838.84 --> 2839.28] Are you ready? -[2839.52 --> 2840.00] Yes, Malachi. -[2840.38 --> 2840.92] Right here. -[2841.54 --> 2842.40] One, two, three. -[2842.72 --> 2843.88] Rock, paper, scissors. -[2844.06 --> 2844.32] Shoot. -[2844.96 --> 2845.58] I win. -[2845.98 --> 2848.76] I'm very good at rock, paper, scissors. -[2849.90 --> 2851.74] He just does rocks all the time. -[2851.74 --> 2854.12] No one ever expects rock. -[2855.72 --> 2857.32] And so you're going to try another round? -[2857.68 --> 2859.70] I don't think he's going to beat you. -[2860.28 --> 2861.74] One, two, three, shoot. -[2862.66 --> 2864.12] Oh, rats. -[2864.88 --> 2865.98] Malachi beat me. -[2866.32 --> 2870.68] So we are going to talk about what it means to get invited to be on a team -[2870.68 --> 2872.98] or to be a part of a group of people, -[2873.58 --> 2877.22] and that God has invited us to be a part of his team. -[2877.28 --> 2880.10] He's chosen us, and we're going to talk about that today in Children's Worship Time. -[2880.14 --> 2880.62] That sound good? -[2880.62 --> 2881.68] Does that sound good? -[2882.04 --> 2882.40] Yeah. -[2882.66 --> 2882.96] All right. -[2883.02 --> 2885.04] Let's pray, and then we'll stand and do the blessing, okay? -[2886.20 --> 2887.60] Dear God, thank you so much for this day. -[2887.68 --> 2890.30] Thank you that we can learn more about you in this church. -[2890.62 --> 2893.28] We pray for these kids as we go off to Children's Worship Time -[2893.28 --> 2896.50] that you'll teach us more about what it means to be a part of your body. -[2896.62 --> 2899.26] And we pray for the church here, for all the adults who are staying behind. -[2899.64 --> 2901.22] God, we pray that they will learn the same. -[2901.46 --> 2902.52] We pray this in your name. -[2903.04 --> 2903.32] Amen. -[2903.32 --> 2903.80] Amen. -[2903.94 --> 2904.14] All right. -[2904.18 --> 2908.92] Let's stand up, and let's do the blessing together. -[2909.02 --> 2909.48] Are you ready? -[2910.66 --> 2913.00] The Lord be with you. -[2913.24 --> 2914.90] And also with you. -[2915.24 --> 2915.68] All right. -[2915.68 --> 2919.44] All right. -[2919.44 --> 2921.16] Thank you. -[2921.32 --> 2930.94] Thank you. -[2931.02 --> 2931.98] Thank you. -[2931.98 --> 2934.76] If you're not here. -[2935.76 --> 2947.42] right -[2947.42 --> 2962.48] no -[2964.76 --> 2972.12] My name is John, a member of this church, and I would like to lead you in our congregational prayer this morning. -[2974.16 --> 2978.32] Before we come to the Lord in prayer, I want to mention a couple things. -[2980.00 --> 2986.28] This past Thursday, we had a congregational meeting here with dinner beforehand. -[2986.28 --> 3000.74] It was a wonderful evening, I think a night that showed God's faithfulness to this church through our finances and serving in the various ministries that we have in this church. -[3002.20 --> 3004.48] And we would like to say thank you. -[3004.78 --> 3008.74] And also for those who helped prepare that evening, thank you also. -[3009.92 --> 3016.18] We also heard about Reactivate, the youth program convention get-together this fall. -[3016.28 --> 3025.74] Here in this church, and it was asked or mentioned that we volunteer ourselves to help coordinate and lead this. -[3026.38 --> 3029.64] And we pray that that may happen. -[3030.28 --> 3036.22] And also for night shift, we asked volunteers there also, and it's a wonderful program. -[3036.22 --> 3047.34] We were also at Stafford, HD Stafford, in the last week, preparing to serve breakfast there to students this coming fall season. -[3047.96 --> 3056.18] And so the Lord is opening doors for us, and we thank him for that, and we pray that we may respond. -[3056.98 --> 3058.78] But shall we come to the Lord in prayer? -[3058.78 --> 3071.54] Our Heavenly Father, we come before you this morning on this beautiful day. -[3071.54 --> 3085.08] Lord, we wake up this morning, seeing the sun shine, and perhaps for many of us, the first thoughts that we have are how good you are to us, -[3085.14 --> 3088.42] that we may see you in the brightness of the day. -[3090.32 --> 3097.86] And Lord, we pray that even in the rain, when that comes also, still we may see your greatness and your majesty in that also. -[3097.86 --> 3106.76] And Lord, we thank you that you have allowed us here this morning to come here to worship. -[3108.36 --> 3115.08] We pray that we may do so in word and in song, in spirit and in truth. -[3117.58 --> 3124.88] Lord, we pray that you would open our hearts to you, and that your spirit may move and live within us. -[3127.86 --> 3134.04] Lord, you have knit each of us in our mother's womb. -[3136.32 --> 3141.60] May we praise you, because we have each been wonderfully made. -[3141.60 --> 3143.60] Lord, we pray that you would open our eyes. -[3143.60 --> 3144.60] Lord, we pray that you would open our eyes. -[3144.60 --> 3146.68] Lord, keep us close to you. -[3147.24 --> 3158.30] And Lord, as we open our eyes also to the hills, Lord, may we see your greatness there. -[3158.42 --> 3161.42] May we see you working within each of us. -[3161.42 --> 3172.54] Lord, we thank you for the congregational meeting that we could have this past week. -[3173.94 --> 3184.44] And Lord, as we shared the finances of this church, Lord, we thank you for the commitment that has been made here. -[3184.44 --> 3193.54] Lord, we pray that we may joyfully share our first fruits with you and with others. -[3196.66 --> 3205.16] And Lord, we pray that you would continue to lead us in all that we do. -[3205.16 --> 3218.82] And Lord, as we talk about night shift, we pray that that ministry, too, may be a blessing, not only to those who are served meals, but also to those who serve. -[3219.94 --> 3230.98] And Lord, as we begin the meal program at H.D. Stafford School this fall, we pray that there, too, the students who come may be blessed by the food, -[3230.98 --> 3237.16] but also, Lord, may they see you at work in our lives and in their lives. -[3238.94 --> 3241.14] We pray for Reactivate this fall. -[3242.44 --> 3246.38] Lord, may we pray that that, too, may be blessed by youth. -[3247.66 --> 3251.80] We pray for many youth that they may want to come. -[3251.80 --> 3261.70] And that through music and word and activities there also, Lord, may you be honored and glorified. -[3261.84 --> 3270.08] And we pray, Lord, that as a church, we, too, may be able to participate well in this and being able to lead and organize various programs. -[3270.08 --> 3284.72] And Lord, as we see how richly we have been blessed, still, Lord, we see hurt. -[3287.10 --> 3290.24] We see pain, Lord, in so many different ways. -[3290.24 --> 3311.80] Lord, we pray for the Vandenberg and the Freese families, Lord, as they grieve the passing away of Femi, Trudy's mom, Bill's mom, Lord, we pray that as they gather this afternoon for their memorial service, Lord, that you would give them strength and comfort. -[3315.70 --> 3318.10] Lord, maybe there be peace there also. -[3320.24 --> 3330.46] Lord, we pray for Ellen White as she, too, Lord, is thankful for all the visits and cards that she receives. -[3333.12 --> 3347.14] From members of this church, Lord, as she's in the hospital for an extended period of time, Lord, we pray that you would give her strength to go through this and that she, too, may be thankful each day, Lord, that you bless her with. -[3347.14 --> 3356.14] Lord, we pray for Micah and Jane as they prepare for their wedding day this July 7th. -[3356.76 --> 3373.10] We pray for a blessing on the preparations and on the day itself, Lord, that as they commit their lives together, Lord, we pray that through your spirit, you may also be honored in that relationship and in that marriage. -[3373.10 --> 3375.10] Lord, we pray for Tini. -[3375.10 --> 3376.10] Lord, we pray for Tini. -[3376.10 --> 3377.10] Lord, we pray for Tini. -[3377.10 --> 3380.10] Lord, we pray for Elise. -[3380.10 --> 3382.10] We pray for Judy and Diane. -[3382.10 --> 3386.10] Lord, for the elderly of this church. -[3386.10 --> 3387.10] We pray for Sai. -[3387.10 --> 3392.10] There are many, Lord, who struggle with some serious health concerns. -[3392.10 --> 3397.10] We pray for each, Lord, that there may be healing of their bodies in miraculous ways. -[3397.10 --> 3407.10] Lord, we pray that you would use us also to be with them, to build them up. -[3407.10 --> 3415.10] Lord, we pray that you would be near to the families in this church, Lord, who struggle in other ways. -[3415.10 --> 3430.10] So often, Lord, as we see each other, we all look so well and yet we know that deep down, Lord, there are many who struggle with relationships, who struggle with their own spiritual walk, spiritual warfare. -[3430.10 --> 3437.10] And, Lord, even though they may not be known to each of us, we pray for them. -[3437.10 --> 3445.10] You know, Lord, who they are and we ask that you would keep them in your care and that you would provide healing for them in miraculous ways also. -[3445.10 --> 3450.10] Lord, we pray for the many now who also will be going on summer vacations. -[3450.10 --> 3463.10] Lord, as programs slow down and give each of us perhaps some time away and time off, we pray that we may be able to relax well. -[3463.10 --> 3468.10] And we pray, Lord, that you would protect and guide each one there also. -[3468.10 --> 3475.10] We pray for the graduates, Lord, from schools, elementary, middle, high school, from college, university. -[3475.10 --> 3483.10] Lord, we pray for those also who have graduated from the Sunday school program here that we witnessed this morning in the service. -[3483.10 --> 3490.10] We pray for each of them that they too would continue to be led and guided by your spirit. -[3490.10 --> 3504.10] And, Lord, we pray that as we continue to worship you this morning, may we do so again in spirit and in truth. -[3504.10 --> 3508.10] May we open our ears, open our hearts to your word. -[3508.10 --> 3510.10] May we hear the words that are spoken. -[3510.10 --> 3518.10] We pray, Lord, for Chris that you would lead and guide him also that he may speak the words that you want him to speak. -[3518.10 --> 3522.10] Lord, we thank you for being here. -[3522.10 --> 3524.10] We pray this in your name. -[3524.10 --> 3525.10] Amen. -[3525.10 --> 3526.10] Amen. -[3534.10 --> 3560.10] As you can see on the screen behind me, we're going to continue in our series through the Book of Romans. -[3560.10 --> 3580.10] In fact, we're going to take a little break from Romans through the summer months as we transition to a different series on the heroes of faith, the examples of faith to us in the Bible and in our own lives for July and August. -[3580.10 --> 3588.10] And so we're going to finish with Romans for this season. -[3588.10 --> 3589.10] We will return. -[3589.10 --> 3593.10] I promise my commitment is to make it all the way through the book with you together. -[3593.10 --> 3597.10] But we're going to take a little break after this week. -[3597.10 --> 3601.10] We are going to read together from Romans 8. -[3601.10 --> 3605.10] We're going to read verses 31 through 39. -[3605.10 --> 3614.10] If you have a Bible, whether it's in a book that you have to open and flip or on a device with you, I do encourage you to open that up or turn that on. -[3614.10 --> 3621.10] Get that in front of you as we read the first time through, at least we will have it on the screen for you. -[3621.10 --> 3625.10] And then you can refer to the one in your hands. -[3625.10 --> 3628.10] With God's word open, let's read together. -[3628.10 --> 3636.10] What then shall we say in response to these things? -[3636.10 --> 3643.10] If God is for us, who can be against us? -[3643.10 --> 3647.10] He who did not spare his own son, but gave him up for us all. -[3647.10 --> 3654.10] How will he not also along with him graciously give us all things? -[3654.10 --> 3659.10] Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? -[3659.10 --> 3662.10] It is God who justifies. -[3662.10 --> 3665.10] Who then is the one who condemns? -[3665.10 --> 3666.10] No one. -[3666.10 --> 3678.10] Christ Jesus, who died more than that, who was raised to life, is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. -[3678.10 --> 3684.10] Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? -[3684.10 --> 3693.10] Who shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? -[3693.10 --> 3698.10] As it is written, for your sake we face death all day long. -[3698.10 --> 3701.10] We are considered as sheep to be slaughtered. -[3701.10 --> 3702.10] No. -[3702.10 --> 3703.10] No. -[3703.10 --> 3710.10] In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. -[3710.10 --> 3731.10] For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. -[3731.10 --> 3732.10] This is the word of God. -[3732.10 --> 3734.10] This is the word of God. -[3734.10 --> 3735.10] This is the word of God. -[3735.10 --> 3736.10] This is the word of God. -[3736.10 --> 3737.10] This is the word of God. -[3737.10 --> 3738.10] This is the word of God. -[3738.10 --> 3755.10] Now, I've said it a number of times as we've been spending these last four weeks or so in Romans 8, that this is one of those texts that just speaks, that just preaches, that just proclaims. -[3755.10 --> 3783.10] And it's also, or it has become, one of those texts that sometimes we just hear and we miss the import of, or sometimes that, you know, well-meaning Christians, counselors, brothers and sisters have quoted to us in the midst of our struggles, and it just sounds impossible. -[3783.10 --> 3784.10] Right? -[3784.10 --> 3789.10] If God is for us, who can be against us? -[3789.10 --> 3792.10] Sometimes that rings hollow. -[3792.10 --> 3793.10] Right? -[3793.10 --> 3798.10] Sometimes it sounds kind of like the word is Christianese, right? -[3798.10 --> 3804.10] Like the way that Christians talk to each other and it doesn't seem very genuine or authentic. -[3804.10 --> 3805.10] Right? -[3805.10 --> 3813.10] Sometimes you can see it pictured this way and perhaps more so in like sports movies from the 90s. -[3813.10 --> 3814.10] Right? -[3814.10 --> 3820.10] Where you have a Texan football team in one locker room and they're praying to God together. -[3820.10 --> 3825.10] And then you have the other football team in the other locker room and they're praying to God as well. -[3825.10 --> 3828.10] And both of them are saying, if God is for us, who could be against us? -[3828.10 --> 3832.10] Well, who, which one is God for? -[3832.10 --> 3834.10] Someone's going to lose. -[3834.10 --> 3835.10] Right? -[3835.10 --> 3852.10] In some ways we hear these things and it can be hard or it can sound disingenuous or it can feel almost fake and like a platitude. -[3852.10 --> 3864.10] And so it's been my prayer throughout this week in particular that we might make this come alive together in our hearing. -[3864.10 --> 3866.10] Because of course, it's true, right? -[3866.10 --> 3871.10] If God is for me, who can be against me? -[3871.10 --> 3873.10] But how do I know that? -[3873.10 --> 3875.10] How do I know that that's true? -[3875.10 --> 3889.10] In a world where it seems impossible to know anything with conviction and sincerity, how can I know that God is really for me? -[3889.10 --> 3894.10] And if God is for me, what does that mean for the rest of my life? -[3894.10 --> 3899.10] These are the sorts of questions that I hope we can bring to bear. -[3899.10 --> 3917.10] And hopefully, as we engage in this together, we are encouraged to enter into whatever trial or darkness or persecution or whatever struggle or whatever weirdness or whatever social impact our faith might have. -[3917.10 --> 3924.10] But we are able to enter into that with a sense of confidence. -[3924.10 --> 3936.10] Now, Paul immediately in this text, and it reads almost with a, I don't want to say sense of urgency, but there's a pacing to it that just builds and builds and builds. -[3936.10 --> 3944.10] And Paul immediately starts stacking layers of answers to these questions on top of each other. -[3944.10 --> 3950.10] And he builds pretty quickly through this text, starting in verse 23. -[3950.10 --> 3954.10] So the question is, if God is for us, who can be against us? -[3954.10 --> 3963.10] And he says, he did not spare his own son, but gave him up for us. -[3963.10 --> 3966.10] How can we know that God is for us? -[3966.10 --> 3979.10] Well, Jesus, God's son, while we were yet sinners, while we were still God's enemies, came into this world and he lived for us and he died for us. -[3979.10 --> 3981.10] That's how much God is for you. -[3981.10 --> 3984.10] And he gave himself up for you. -[3984.10 --> 3991.10] He who knew no sin became sin so that you might become the righteousness of God. -[3991.10 --> 3994.10] That's how much God is for you. -[3994.10 --> 3995.10] And then Paul keeps stacking, right? -[3995.10 --> 3997.10] He goes one level higher, right? -[3997.10 --> 4002.10] He says, if God is for me, who can bring a charge against me? -[4002.10 --> 4004.10] And the answer there is no one, right? -[4004.10 --> 4009.10] God's not divided against himself and it's God who justifies. -[4009.10 --> 4011.10] And he keeps stacking. -[4011.10 --> 4014.10] If God is for me, who is it that condemns me? -[4014.10 --> 4016.10] Again, the answer, no one. -[4016.10 --> 4017.10] No one, right? -[4017.10 --> 4024.10] The one who might, that is Jesus, who is judge, is acting now as intercessor for you. -[4024.10 --> 4027.10] He's the mediator defending you. -[4027.10 --> 4041.10] And we've said this a couple times in this series, but picture this whole stacking of images and questions together like a courtroom drama, right? -[4041.10 --> 4046.10] That's the image that Paul has been using throughout the book of Romans. -[4046.10 --> 4047.10] Right? -[4047.10 --> 4058.10] God's wrath is there over sin and his judgment is right and righteous because of humanity's rejection of him, because of our rebellion against him. -[4058.10 --> 4072.10] But for those whom God has sovereignly chosen, those whom by grace through faith are saved from just punishment, Jesus has moved from judge to justifier. -[4072.10 --> 4073.10] Right? -[4073.10 --> 4083.10] Jesus is both the defense attorney for you and me and simultaneously the one who's declared guilty in our place. -[4083.10 --> 4088.10] Jesus died the death that we deserve. -[4088.10 --> 4092.10] And more than that, though, he was raised to life. -[4092.10 --> 4093.10] Right? -[4093.10 --> 4094.10] That's what Paul is building here. -[4094.10 --> 4101.10] Precisely because Jesus is God, precisely because he was innocent, death could not hold him. -[4101.10 --> 4109.10] And while the penalty for sin has been paid in his dying, the grave could not keep him. -[4109.10 --> 4112.10] And so he was raised to life. -[4112.10 --> 4125.10] And this question then at the beginning, if God is for us, who can be against us, is stacking answers to this point. -[4125.10 --> 4129.10] To say, if God is for us, who can be against us? -[4129.10 --> 4130.10] There's no one. -[4130.10 --> 4132.10] There's no one who can stand against us. -[4132.10 --> 4137.10] There's no one left to bring a charge or to condemn us. -[4137.10 --> 4145.10] And if you have the ears to hear it, that is reality defining. -[4145.10 --> 4152.10] That is mind blowing truth that changes the world. -[4152.10 --> 4155.10] That's why I love the book of Romans. -[4155.10 --> 4165.10] That's why, in particular, I love Romans 8 and why it's so powerful. -[4165.10 --> 4187.10] And yet, even as we read this, even as we sit in the relative security and comfort of these beautiful chairs in this beautiful sanctuary with a beautiful breeze blowing through every now and again, it's pretty easy to say in this moment. -[4187.10 --> 4194.10] Even as our hearts are stirred by the beauty and the compelling power and purpose of it all. -[4194.10 --> 4208.10] It is so easy to leave this place, to walk out these doors, and to live like it's not true. -[4208.10 --> 4227.10] For instance, you might be sitting here thinking, or you might leave from here and hear again the devil's accusations, the deceiver's accusations. -[4227.10 --> 4232.10] We might live like they have a certain power. -[4232.10 --> 4237.10] And maybe, on an emotional and experiential level, they do. -[4237.10 --> 4238.10] Right? -[4238.10 --> 4248.10] I don't want to understate or minimize the way that emotions impact how we see and be in the world. -[4248.10 --> 4251.10] And yet, it is so critical. -[4251.10 --> 4265.10] And what Paul is driving us to here is to realize that spiritually and ontologically in the world, the devil has no real power to condemn you or to accuse you. -[4265.10 --> 4268.10] Now, he tries. -[4268.10 --> 4269.10] Right? -[4269.10 --> 4271.10] It's in his nature. -[4271.10 --> 4273.10] And so he must. -[4273.10 --> 4280.10] And sometimes, I know, sometimes we listen. -[4280.10 --> 4284.10] And sometimes we give him power to accuse. -[4284.10 --> 4300.10] But very clearly, he doesn't have any, or at least he doesn't have enough to overcome the greater power of God and of Jesus and the victory of the cross. -[4300.10 --> 4321.10] And now, in a very similar way, it's also really easy for us to go from this place and to live with your own accusations and your own self-condemnation as the voice in your own mind is often louder than the voice of God from the Bible. -[4321.10 --> 4330.10] And in fact, this part here, this second category, where it's our own voice and our own mind is probably more true for many of us. -[4330.10 --> 4340.54] And so instead of saying, if God is for us, who can be against us, we hear or we ask, is God for us? -[4341.10 --> 4345.10] Everyone is against us. -[4345.10 --> 4354.36] Or in our own hearts, we think, I'm not going to ever be good enough for God and the world is against me. -[4354.48 --> 4362.38] And sometimes it gets so bad, right, that we think, God is against me and no one is for me. -[4362.38 --> 4382.64] Look, I know and understand how scary and terrifying it can be to live in that dark night of the soul. -[4382.64 --> 4391.46] I know how scary it can be to feel that kind of deconstructioning of your faith happening in you and around you. -[4391.60 --> 4399.32] And when your feelings are that big, it can be scary and it can feel like you're walking through this life of faith as a zombie, -[4399.56 --> 4405.88] not really engaging with the people around you, not really connecting in the ways that you want to in your head. -[4405.88 --> 4413.34] And when you feel that way, it is so easy to hear the voice that says, you are fake. -[4413.94 --> 4415.40] You are a fraud. -[4416.32 --> 4418.58] There's no point in continuing on. -[4418.66 --> 4420.22] There's no point in trying. -[4421.42 --> 4425.94] And if that's you this morning, if that's what you are experiencing and feeling, -[4426.04 --> 4430.92] or if you're feeling anything like this or anything similar to it, however it is that you would put it, -[4430.92 --> 4440.06] can I just say that there is no safer place, there is no better place for you to be than right here, right now, -[4440.24 --> 4445.46] in this moment, in this church, with these Christians, these brothers and sisters, right, -[4445.50 --> 4450.72] these fellow pilgrims on the journey of life and faith, on this journey of doubt and belief. -[4450.72 --> 4454.70] Because truth is, right, and I'm first among y'all, we're all frauds. -[4455.56 --> 4457.82] We're all hypocrites, right? -[4457.82 --> 4462.30] We all at some point or another struggle to believe, every one of us. -[4462.42 --> 4467.90] And so if that is where you are, you are not alone. -[4470.48 --> 4478.72] Whether it's the dark night of the soul, whether it's the crisis of deconstruction, you are not alone. -[4478.72 --> 4484.06] And if you hear one thing from me this morning, let it be this. -[4484.06 --> 4494.08] The confidence of Paul's profession here in Romans 8 is not the strength of his belief. -[4496.12 --> 4502.48] The confidence of Paul's conviction is not the quality of his faith. -[4502.48 --> 4518.02] Instead, the confidence of Paul's profession is the person of his God. -[4518.02 --> 4525.16] Our confidence, our conviction doesn't come from knowing everything. -[4525.92 --> 4528.70] It doesn't come from feeling the right things. -[4528.98 --> 4532.32] It doesn't come from practicing the right rituals. -[4532.76 --> 4536.42] It comes from the person of God. -[4537.54 --> 4541.06] It comes from his being of transcendence. -[4541.06 --> 4548.60] It comes from Jesus Christ, the Word who took on flesh and made his dwelling among us. -[4549.66 --> 4551.10] You can have confidence. -[4551.38 --> 4553.10] You can have strong convictions. -[4553.64 --> 4560.22] You can have a secure faith because it is God who is for us. -[4560.22 --> 4568.22] And if God is for us, who can be against us? -[4569.58 --> 4573.70] If God is for us, who can bring any charge against us? -[4573.78 --> 4577.80] If God is for us, who can condemn us? -[4579.16 --> 4580.10] No one. -[4582.32 --> 4585.20] That's the strength of your conviction. -[4585.90 --> 4588.74] That's the truth of our Christian faith. -[4588.74 --> 4596.22] And it's a truth that is true no matter what else may also be true in your life and circumstances. -[4597.72 --> 4600.58] In fact, remember we're building here. -[4600.72 --> 4601.58] We're layering on. -[4601.86 --> 4603.00] It only gets better. -[4604.00 --> 4605.34] Look at verse 34. -[4607.04 --> 4608.16] Verse 34. -[4608.64 --> 4611.36] Who then is the one who condemns? -[4611.48 --> 4611.94] No one. -[4612.06 --> 4613.36] Christ Jesus who died. -[4613.48 --> 4615.10] More than that who was raised to life. -[4615.16 --> 4615.66] And here it is. -[4615.66 --> 4624.00] He is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. -[4624.96 --> 4630.02] He is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. -[4630.10 --> 4633.64] This is a description of Jesus' current reality. -[4634.16 --> 4635.58] This is what he is doing. -[4636.38 --> 4639.66] And after his life on earth, after his death and his resurrection, -[4639.66 --> 4644.28] 40 days later, he ascended to the right hand of God the Father. -[4644.54 --> 4648.66] That is to say that he has been given the name that is above every name. -[4648.72 --> 4653.10] That at the name of Jesus, every knee should bow and tongue confess in heaven and on earth -[4653.10 --> 4657.16] that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father. -[4657.78 --> 4665.46] And from the right hand of the Father, he is exercising his sovereign reign to the glory of God. -[4665.46 --> 4671.26] And from there, he, along with the Father, sent the Holy Spirit. -[4672.42 --> 4676.76] But his reign and his rule doesn't stop there. -[4677.38 --> 4681.00] His action in the world doesn't stop there. -[4681.12 --> 4685.94] His action in the world continues on behalf of you and me. -[4686.12 --> 4691.28] He continues, as Paul says, as an intercessor for us. -[4691.28 --> 4697.78] By the perfect life of obedience and his death on the cross in our place, -[4698.18 --> 4700.60] Jesus Christ has removed condemnation. -[4700.76 --> 4702.14] He's removed judgment. -[4702.74 --> 4707.98] And now, as he sits at the right hand of the Father, he intercedes for us. -[4708.08 --> 4710.32] He doesn't bring condemnation. -[4711.24 --> 4713.52] He rains down intercession. -[4715.10 --> 4720.72] Now, the verb that's used, to intercede, is spoken there in the present tense. -[4721.28 --> 4731.62] And thus, it gives this idea of an action that is completed but continues into the future. -[4732.44 --> 4736.28] It happened, it started in the past, but continues going forward. -[4736.66 --> 4744.56] In another translation of the Bible, the ESV translation, it says there that he is indeed interceding for us. -[4744.66 --> 4749.56] And that word indeed is used to convey immediacy but also continuance. -[4749.56 --> 4759.56] And so, you might say in this part that he is also, even now and will ever be, interceding for us. -[4759.56 --> 4764.00] And so, just hold that image of Jesus in your mind, right? -[4764.36 --> 4770.38] Jesus who stood in the gap caused by sin between us and God, between us and our heavenly home. -[4770.80 --> 4772.58] Jesus who made a way for us. -[4772.70 --> 4775.90] He continues to stand in that gap. -[4776.04 --> 4779.02] He continues to represent us to the Father. -[4779.14 --> 4784.84] He continues to work in you and through you, transforming you by the renewing of your mind. -[4784.84 --> 4791.66] In John 17, Jesus prayed for all his followers. -[4792.10 --> 4793.20] And that means you and me. -[4793.20 --> 4804.52] And in Romans 8, we learn that Jesus continues to pray, continues to intercede for his followers. -[4805.54 --> 4810.82] Jesus, at the right hand of the Father, has the ear of the Father, even now. -[4810.92 --> 4815.40] And what he does is he brings to the Father your prayers. -[4815.40 --> 4821.80] And so, as you pray, Jesus hears your voice. -[4822.96 --> 4825.68] And he speaks it to the Father. -[4826.26 --> 4833.58] As you pray, the Spirit who came down lifts your prayers as if incense up to heaven. -[4833.86 --> 4837.80] And Jesus hears and the Father responds. -[4837.80 --> 4845.56] As you pray, the full activity of our triune God is going on in that moment. -[4847.34 --> 4851.84] And so, does that not move us to pray? -[4853.58 --> 4856.80] He hears your prayers and he wants to hear more from you. -[4857.14 --> 4862.72] And by our prayers, he moves us into step and line with the will of God. -[4862.72 --> 4869.76] Using our prayers as the means of achieving his ultimate goal. -[4870.18 --> 4870.26] Right? -[4870.30 --> 4876.00] The revealing of his kingdom come and his kingdom coming for the glory of his name. -[4878.08 --> 4878.20] Right? -[4878.30 --> 4883.86] And here, if Jesus is in heaven interceding on our behalf, -[4884.26 --> 4891.40] should we not also then be praying and interceding on behalf of those around him in our life as well? -[4891.40 --> 4891.84] Right? -[4892.34 --> 4897.76] Prayer and the word of God are the lifeblood of Christian faith. -[4898.14 --> 4901.22] And as the word courses in you and through you, -[4901.30 --> 4908.94] so prayers flow out of you in praise of his name and in intercession for his world. -[4908.94 --> 4923.18] A number of years ago, I heard a story from the woman to whom this event happened. -[4923.18 --> 4928.20] She was driving in her car down a Michigan highway, -[4929.02 --> 4931.28] listening to the radio, -[4931.62 --> 4934.72] when all of a sudden she heard a voice that told her, -[4936.18 --> 4938.52] pull over at the next gas station, -[4939.36 --> 4940.20] get out of the car, -[4940.80 --> 4943.10] do a handstand in front of the pop machine, -[4943.74 --> 4945.02] turn around and walk out. -[4945.02 --> 4949.20] Now this woman, born and raised, Christian reformed. -[4950.26 --> 4952.42] She thought she was going crazy. -[4954.18 --> 4955.72] But the voice remained. -[4956.38 --> 4957.68] The word remained. -[4957.68 --> 4963.60] And so, as she spent the next three miles wrestling with what to do, -[4963.94 --> 4964.92] she finally decided, -[4965.06 --> 4967.42] okay, I'm going to turn it off. -[4967.82 --> 4968.68] Gets off the highway. -[4969.18 --> 4972.30] There's a gas station 0.3 miles away, says the sign. -[4973.14 --> 4974.70] Pulls into the gas station, -[4975.46 --> 4976.76] gets out, opens the door, -[4976.90 --> 4979.26] sees the clerk behind the bulletproof glass. -[4979.36 --> 4980.48] Remember, we're in Michigan here. -[4980.82 --> 4981.72] Behind the counter, -[4982.52 --> 4984.20] sees the pop machine in the other corner. -[4984.20 --> 4986.44] walks over to the other corner, -[4986.98 --> 4988.08] kneels down in front of it, -[4988.40 --> 4989.40] does a handstand, -[4990.60 --> 4991.98] laughs at herself, -[4992.84 --> 4993.36] gets up, -[4993.92 --> 4994.98] and walks out the door. -[4995.06 --> 4996.34] When she puts her hand on the door, -[4996.46 --> 4997.90] the clerk behind the counter says, -[4998.60 --> 5001.30] who the H are you? -[5006.24 --> 5007.32] My name is, -[5007.56 --> 5008.40] she gave her name. -[5009.92 --> 5012.28] Why on earth did you just do that? -[5012.28 --> 5014.02] She's like, -[5014.08 --> 5014.54] I don't know. -[5014.90 --> 5016.16] I think I'm going crazy. -[5016.94 --> 5017.90] But I was driving, -[5018.24 --> 5019.20] and I heard a voice, -[5019.40 --> 5021.22] and it told me that if I didn't pull over, -[5022.66 --> 5024.08] and so I did it. -[5024.58 --> 5025.22] I don't know. -[5025.36 --> 5026.50] Do you need to call the police? -[5026.72 --> 5028.02] Do you need to call an ambulance for me? -[5028.38 --> 5030.84] And the person behind the counter said, -[5031.84 --> 5033.28] three minutes ago, -[5033.66 --> 5036.74] I picked up this gun behind the counter, -[5037.20 --> 5038.52] and I prayed, -[5038.52 --> 5040.02] God, -[5040.08 --> 5040.80] if you are real, -[5041.54 --> 5043.66] if you want to save my life, -[5044.50 --> 5045.96] send someone in here, -[5046.08 --> 5047.38] and make them do a handstand -[5047.38 --> 5048.56] in front of the pop machine in the corner. -[5053.56 --> 5054.00] You -[5054.00 --> 5056.36] saved my life. -[5057.94 --> 5058.88] And this woman, -[5059.14 --> 5059.64] in tears, -[5059.78 --> 5059.98] said, -[5060.06 --> 5060.30] no, -[5060.90 --> 5061.52] God did. -[5061.52 --> 5066.66] Now, -[5066.70 --> 5068.60] that seems like an incredible story, -[5069.34 --> 5072.38] but I could stand up here, -[5072.94 --> 5074.36] and for the next 30 minutes, -[5074.90 --> 5076.64] tell you stories like this, -[5076.90 --> 5078.24] from this community. -[5079.46 --> 5082.14] Tell you stories of answered prayer, -[5082.38 --> 5085.36] of God visibly and powerfully at work, -[5085.40 --> 5087.02] whether it's in the midst of healing, -[5087.32 --> 5088.52] whether it's in the face of death -[5088.52 --> 5089.30] and bringing hope, -[5089.30 --> 5091.20] whether it's in the midst of community, -[5091.40 --> 5092.78] coming together and restoring -[5092.78 --> 5093.54] and bringing, -[5093.98 --> 5096.10] God hears our prayers -[5096.10 --> 5099.62] and is at work in us and through us. -[5099.76 --> 5101.58] This is what He does, -[5101.68 --> 5103.28] and it's this kind of life -[5103.28 --> 5105.42] that He invites us to. -[5108.00 --> 5108.58] Now, -[5108.64 --> 5109.80] we don't always get -[5109.80 --> 5112.84] the answer we're looking for. -[5115.34 --> 5116.86] God doesn't always -[5116.86 --> 5118.76] bring someone into our lives -[5118.76 --> 5119.40] to do a handstand -[5119.40 --> 5120.38] in front of a pop machine, -[5121.38 --> 5124.04] but He hears you, -[5124.56 --> 5126.64] and He has given you -[5126.64 --> 5127.72] the person beside you. -[5128.70 --> 5129.64] He has given you -[5129.64 --> 5130.60] the person in front of you. -[5130.68 --> 5132.60] He has given you us -[5132.60 --> 5135.10] to be that answer -[5135.10 --> 5137.20] to your prayer. -[5138.96 --> 5139.92] And I know, -[5140.38 --> 5143.68] I know that you might not -[5143.68 --> 5144.88] be at a place -[5144.88 --> 5146.06] where you can believe that -[5146.06 --> 5147.58] or where you can feel it. -[5151.58 --> 5153.50] But if you, -[5153.80 --> 5156.38] if you are walking -[5156.38 --> 5158.38] in that place, -[5158.84 --> 5160.18] hear this. -[5160.84 --> 5163.02] God is still -[5163.02 --> 5164.98] for us. -[5167.46 --> 5168.72] Immediately following -[5168.72 --> 5170.52] this statement, right, -[5170.74 --> 5172.52] regarding the eternal intercession -[5172.52 --> 5173.52] of Jesus, -[5173.78 --> 5174.54] Paul says, -[5175.34 --> 5176.06] so then, -[5176.24 --> 5178.42] who shall separate us -[5178.42 --> 5180.60] from the love of Christ? -[5181.48 --> 5182.42] To which the answer -[5182.42 --> 5183.40] is an emphatic, -[5183.88 --> 5184.26] nothing, -[5184.90 --> 5185.36] ever, -[5186.06 --> 5186.58] anywhere. -[5187.58 --> 5187.78] Right? -[5187.82 --> 5188.40] It is true -[5188.40 --> 5189.24] that Christ is -[5189.24 --> 5190.12] at the right hand -[5190.12 --> 5190.74] of God, -[5190.80 --> 5191.88] but He is not there -[5191.88 --> 5192.54] relaxing. -[5192.90 --> 5193.74] He's not there -[5193.74 --> 5195.16] unthinkingly passive. -[5195.36 --> 5196.06] He's not there -[5196.06 --> 5196.94] just waiting for -[5196.94 --> 5198.14] the next assignment -[5198.14 --> 5199.40] from the Father. -[5199.60 --> 5200.34] He is there -[5200.34 --> 5202.16] hearing our petitions, -[5202.56 --> 5203.44] representing us -[5203.44 --> 5204.00] to the Father, -[5204.14 --> 5204.88] supporting us -[5204.88 --> 5205.52] in trial, -[5205.64 --> 5206.54] giving us courage -[5206.54 --> 5207.88] in the face of death. -[5207.96 --> 5208.46] He is there -[5208.46 --> 5210.12] empowering us -[5210.12 --> 5210.84] to oppose -[5210.84 --> 5212.16] the forces of Satan. -[5212.48 --> 5213.00] He is there -[5213.00 --> 5213.84] enabling us -[5213.84 --> 5214.44] to journey -[5214.44 --> 5215.40] to the highest -[5215.40 --> 5216.42] mountain of life -[5216.42 --> 5217.04] or through -[5217.04 --> 5218.58] the lowest valley -[5218.58 --> 5221.14] because of His -[5221.14 --> 5222.82] constant intercession. -[5223.26 --> 5223.60] Nothing, -[5224.14 --> 5225.62] not one thing -[5225.62 --> 5227.80] is able to separate you -[5227.80 --> 5229.68] from the love of God -[5229.68 --> 5230.56] that is available -[5230.56 --> 5232.58] in Christ Jesus. -[5234.50 --> 5236.26] Who shall separate us -[5236.26 --> 5237.66] from the love of Christ? -[5237.82 --> 5238.38] Shall trouble -[5238.38 --> 5239.20] or hardship -[5239.20 --> 5240.08] or persecution -[5240.08 --> 5240.84] or famine -[5240.84 --> 5241.84] or nakedness -[5241.84 --> 5242.44] or danger -[5242.44 --> 5243.28] or sword? -[5244.18 --> 5245.04] As it is written, -[5245.22 --> 5246.14] for your sake -[5246.14 --> 5247.02] we face death -[5247.02 --> 5247.72] all day long. -[5247.82 --> 5248.48] We are considered -[5248.48 --> 5249.42] as sheep -[5249.42 --> 5250.44] to be slaughtered. -[5250.70 --> 5251.18] No. -[5253.24 --> 5254.14] Can I just say -[5254.14 --> 5256.10] that might be -[5256.10 --> 5257.14] the most beautiful -[5257.14 --> 5259.20] no in the entire Bible? -[5260.96 --> 5261.42] Right? -[5261.46 --> 5262.00] That might be -[5262.00 --> 5263.20] the most beautiful -[5263.20 --> 5264.80] no you will ever hear. -[5265.96 --> 5267.24] And who shall separate us -[5267.24 --> 5268.14] from the love of Christ? -[5268.36 --> 5268.64] No. -[5269.24 --> 5269.88] Shall trouble? -[5270.18 --> 5270.46] No. -[5270.62 --> 5271.16] Shall hardship? -[5271.56 --> 5271.88] No. -[5272.08 --> 5272.72] Shall persecution? -[5273.12 --> 5273.40] No. -[5273.58 --> 5274.12] Shall famine? -[5274.44 --> 5274.70] No. -[5274.84 --> 5275.50] Shall nakedness? -[5275.72 --> 5275.98] No. -[5276.14 --> 5276.70] Shall danger? -[5277.04 --> 5277.30] No. -[5277.46 --> 5278.04] Shall sword? -[5278.34 --> 5278.78] No. -[5279.98 --> 5281.00] To every one -[5281.00 --> 5282.32] of those very real, -[5282.44 --> 5283.64] very present suffering, -[5283.64 --> 5284.84] Paul says, -[5285.10 --> 5285.42] no. -[5286.28 --> 5288.34] They have no power -[5288.34 --> 5289.76] to separate you -[5289.76 --> 5291.02] from the love of God. -[5292.32 --> 5292.80] No. -[5293.00 --> 5294.78] In all these things -[5294.78 --> 5297.26] we are more than conquerors -[5297.26 --> 5297.98] through Him -[5297.98 --> 5300.02] who loved us. -[5301.24 --> 5302.18] And if you have the ears -[5302.18 --> 5302.60] to hear, -[5302.74 --> 5304.40] hear the extravagance -[5304.40 --> 5305.76] in that statement. -[5306.56 --> 5306.92] Right? -[5306.96 --> 5308.00] Because it would be enough -[5308.00 --> 5309.18] to just be a conqueror. -[5309.20 --> 5309.38] Right? -[5309.38 --> 5311.96] But we are more -[5311.96 --> 5313.46] than conquerors. -[5314.66 --> 5314.78] Right? -[5314.80 --> 5315.60] To be a conqueror -[5315.60 --> 5316.40] would be enough. -[5316.78 --> 5316.94] Right? -[5317.18 --> 5318.98] But to be more -[5318.98 --> 5320.14] than a conqueror, -[5320.28 --> 5321.68] it's not just -[5321.68 --> 5322.50] that we have conquered -[5322.50 --> 5323.52] sin and death -[5323.52 --> 5324.46] in this life, -[5324.58 --> 5325.76] but we are -[5325.76 --> 5326.64] an inheritor -[5326.64 --> 5327.50] of the kingdom. -[5327.90 --> 5329.26] We are an heir of God -[5329.26 --> 5329.98] and a co-heir -[5329.98 --> 5330.60] with Christ. -[5330.84 --> 5331.88] And by the Spirit -[5331.88 --> 5332.94] we cry, -[5333.18 --> 5333.58] Abba, -[5333.86 --> 5334.34] Father. -[5335.18 --> 5336.12] We are more -[5336.12 --> 5337.08] than conquerors. -[5337.08 --> 5339.68] For I am convinced -[5339.68 --> 5341.14] that neither death -[5341.14 --> 5341.84] nor life, -[5341.98 --> 5342.60] neither angels -[5342.60 --> 5343.22] nor demons, -[5343.36 --> 5344.04] neither the present -[5344.04 --> 5344.90] nor the future -[5344.90 --> 5346.00] nor any powers, -[5346.46 --> 5347.26] neither height -[5347.26 --> 5347.86] nor depth -[5347.86 --> 5349.26] nor anything else -[5349.26 --> 5350.52] in all of creation -[5350.52 --> 5351.42] will be able -[5351.42 --> 5352.32] to separate us -[5352.32 --> 5353.48] from the love -[5353.48 --> 5354.18] of God -[5354.18 --> 5355.40] that is in Christ -[5355.40 --> 5357.80] Jesus our Lord. -[5358.54 --> 5359.02] Death -[5359.02 --> 5361.40] has no power. -[5362.44 --> 5362.80] Life -[5362.80 --> 5363.86] has no -[5363.86 --> 5364.68] allure -[5364.68 --> 5365.24] greater -[5365.24 --> 5366.58] than the love -[5366.58 --> 5367.30] of God -[5367.30 --> 5368.76] through Jesus. -[5369.88 --> 5371.24] There is no power -[5371.24 --> 5372.52] whether it is spiritual, -[5372.72 --> 5373.32] whether it's angels -[5373.32 --> 5373.82] or demons, -[5373.94 --> 5374.80] there is no power -[5374.80 --> 5375.74] whether it is earthly, -[5376.08 --> 5376.64] be it governments -[5376.64 --> 5377.24] or armies, -[5377.40 --> 5378.60] or even the power -[5378.60 --> 5379.76] of time itself. -[5380.26 --> 5380.66] Nothing -[5380.66 --> 5382.32] in all of creation -[5382.32 --> 5382.92] is enough -[5382.92 --> 5384.06] to separate us -[5384.06 --> 5385.18] from the love -[5385.18 --> 5386.24] of God. -[5387.12 --> 5387.92] And of this -[5387.92 --> 5389.52] you can be convinced -[5389.52 --> 5391.48] because God -[5391.48 --> 5392.52] is -[5392.52 --> 5393.78] for you. -[5394.68 --> 5396.40] and because -[5396.40 --> 5397.80] God is for you, -[5398.50 --> 5399.32] you are -[5399.32 --> 5399.94] more -[5399.94 --> 5400.78] than -[5400.78 --> 5402.06] conquerors. -[5403.36 --> 5404.50] This is the kind -[5404.50 --> 5405.04] of truth -[5405.04 --> 5406.50] that led -[5406.50 --> 5407.30] Christians -[5407.30 --> 5408.32] in the early church -[5408.32 --> 5408.84] to be burned -[5408.84 --> 5409.36] at the stake. -[5410.24 --> 5411.18] This is the kind -[5411.18 --> 5411.70] of conviction -[5411.70 --> 5412.52] that led Christians -[5412.52 --> 5413.38] in the Reformation -[5413.38 --> 5414.06] to stand -[5414.06 --> 5415.06] against power -[5415.06 --> 5415.62] and abuses -[5415.62 --> 5416.52] of authority -[5416.52 --> 5417.46] that were taking place -[5417.46 --> 5418.46] even though -[5418.46 --> 5419.08] they were being -[5419.08 --> 5419.72] killed for it. -[5420.20 --> 5421.16] This is the kind -[5421.16 --> 5421.76] of truth -[5421.76 --> 5422.44] and conviction -[5422.44 --> 5423.40] that leads Christians -[5423.40 --> 5424.18] throughout the world -[5424.18 --> 5424.94] even today -[5424.94 --> 5427.24] into prison -[5427.24 --> 5428.32] to face -[5428.32 --> 5429.12] beheadings -[5429.12 --> 5430.60] because they know -[5430.60 --> 5431.62] who they are -[5431.62 --> 5433.08] in Christ Jesus -[5433.08 --> 5434.46] because they know -[5434.46 --> 5436.50] who God is. -[5437.78 --> 5438.68] And as we live -[5438.68 --> 5439.14] today -[5439.14 --> 5439.84] in an ever -[5439.84 --> 5440.80] increasingly -[5440.80 --> 5441.80] post-Christian -[5441.80 --> 5442.28] world -[5442.28 --> 5444.00] this is the kind -[5444.00 --> 5444.56] of truth -[5444.56 --> 5445.88] that we will need -[5445.88 --> 5446.94] to be convicted -[5446.94 --> 5447.84] of. -[5449.00 --> 5450.20] If our God -[5450.20 --> 5451.20] is for us -[5451.20 --> 5452.62] who can be -[5452.62 --> 5453.70] against us -[5453.70 --> 5456.82] and our God -[5456.82 --> 5457.68] is for us -[5457.68 --> 5459.54] and so I will -[5459.54 --> 5460.44] talk to my -[5460.44 --> 5461.48] unbelieving neighbor -[5461.48 --> 5462.30] or friend -[5462.30 --> 5463.46] or colleague -[5463.46 --> 5464.28] at work -[5464.28 --> 5465.22] even if it -[5465.22 --> 5466.04] makes me look -[5466.04 --> 5466.68] weird. -[5467.26 --> 5468.16] Even if it -[5468.16 --> 5468.98] costs me -[5468.98 --> 5469.80] something. -[5471.74 --> 5472.58] Our God -[5472.58 --> 5474.24] is for us. -[5474.58 --> 5475.42] I am already -[5475.42 --> 5476.24] more than a -[5476.24 --> 5476.72] conqueror -[5476.72 --> 5477.58] and so I will -[5477.58 --> 5478.88] sacrifice my time -[5478.88 --> 5479.88] and my privilege -[5479.88 --> 5480.66] to serve -[5480.66 --> 5481.38] those people -[5481.38 --> 5482.54] in my community -[5482.54 --> 5483.64] who need -[5483.64 --> 5484.52] more of Him. -[5485.88 --> 5486.94] God is -[5486.94 --> 5487.80] for me -[5487.80 --> 5489.16] and so in all -[5489.16 --> 5490.28] of these things -[5490.28 --> 5491.64] I will be -[5491.64 --> 5492.80] for God. -[5492.80 --> 5495.92] and I believe -[5495.92 --> 5497.58] that we are -[5497.58 --> 5498.64] starting to see -[5498.64 --> 5499.58] here in this -[5499.58 --> 5499.92] church -[5499.92 --> 5501.30] what it could -[5501.30 --> 5501.86] be like -[5501.86 --> 5502.58] if we went -[5502.58 --> 5503.28] out with -[5503.28 --> 5504.08] this conviction -[5504.08 --> 5504.82] more and more -[5504.82 --> 5505.30] in the power -[5505.30 --> 5505.76] of the Spirit. -[5507.70 --> 5508.60] And so go -[5508.60 --> 5508.92] out -[5508.92 --> 5510.76] and in the -[5510.76 --> 5511.40] depths of -[5511.40 --> 5511.98] your heart -[5511.98 --> 5512.78] in the very -[5512.78 --> 5513.84] core of -[5513.84 --> 5515.02] your being -[5515.02 --> 5516.12] live this -[5516.12 --> 5516.86] truth -[5516.86 --> 5517.90] and watch -[5517.90 --> 5518.82] God's kingdom -[5518.82 --> 5520.04] come in -[5520.04 --> 5520.44] you -[5520.44 --> 5521.52] and around -[5521.52 --> 5521.88] you. -[5522.80 --> 5524.64] If God -[5524.64 --> 5525.94] is for us -[5525.94 --> 5526.58] who -[5526.58 --> 5528.46] can be -[5528.46 --> 5529.28] against us? -[5529.86 --> 5530.10] Amen? -[5530.88 --> 5531.82] Let's pray -[5531.82 --> 5532.16] together. -[5537.02 --> 5537.82] God -[5537.82 --> 5538.82] you are -[5538.82 --> 5540.44] for us. -[5545.30 --> 5546.14] You -[5546.14 --> 5546.80] are -[5546.80 --> 5548.44] for us -[5548.44 --> 5548.94] and you -[5548.94 --> 5549.30] have -[5549.30 --> 5550.70] made us -[5550.70 --> 5551.56] by grace -[5551.56 --> 5552.46] through faith -[5552.46 --> 5553.12] to be -[5553.12 --> 5553.78] more -[5553.78 --> 5554.58] than -[5554.58 --> 5555.52] conquerors -[5555.52 --> 5556.02] because -[5556.02 --> 5557.46] Jesus Christ -[5557.46 --> 5558.38] has conquered -[5558.38 --> 5558.98] sin -[5558.98 --> 5560.04] and death -[5560.04 --> 5562.88] and in -[5562.88 --> 5563.16] him -[5563.16 --> 5564.18] and with -[5564.18 --> 5564.50] him -[5564.50 --> 5565.16] we now -[5565.16 --> 5565.74] stand -[5565.74 --> 5568.00] as conquerors -[5568.00 --> 5569.36] and so -[5569.36 --> 5570.68] Lord Jesus -[5570.68 --> 5571.74] hear our -[5571.74 --> 5572.42] prayers -[5572.42 --> 5574.44] and send -[5574.44 --> 5575.06] us out -[5575.06 --> 5575.90] in the power -[5575.90 --> 5576.90] of your -[5576.90 --> 5577.48] spirit -[5577.48 --> 5579.50] that we -[5579.50 --> 5580.24] together -[5580.24 --> 5581.36] might be -[5581.36 --> 5582.52] the answer -[5582.52 --> 5584.26] to someone's -[5584.26 --> 5585.02] prayer -[5585.02 --> 5587.08] that we -[5587.08 --> 5587.62] together -[5587.62 --> 5588.52] might be -[5588.52 --> 5589.42] the means -[5589.42 --> 5589.94] by which -[5589.94 --> 5590.76] people in -[5590.76 --> 5591.54] our lives -[5591.54 --> 5591.98] in our -[5591.98 --> 5592.38] neighborhood -[5592.38 --> 5592.96] and in -[5592.96 --> 5593.62] our city -[5593.62 --> 5594.48] come to -[5594.48 --> 5595.50] see that -[5595.50 --> 5596.06] you -[5596.06 --> 5597.00] are -[5597.00 --> 5597.90] God -[5597.90 --> 5599.20] that you -[5599.20 --> 5599.68] are -[5599.68 --> 5600.54] good -[5600.54 --> 5600.98] and that -[5600.98 --> 5601.24] your -[5601.24 --> 5602.18] gospel -[5602.18 --> 5603.32] is -[5603.32 --> 5604.20] glorious -[5604.20 --> 5607.18] send us -[5607.18 --> 5607.46] out -[5607.46 --> 5607.80] in the -[5607.80 --> 5608.30] power -[5608.30 --> 5609.32] of your -[5609.32 --> 5609.82] name -[5609.82 --> 5610.22] Lord -[5610.22 --> 5610.62] Jesus -[5610.62 --> 5611.18] Christ -[5611.18 --> 5613.00] it's in -[5613.00 --> 5614.00] your name -[5614.00 --> 5614.58] that we -[5614.58 --> 5614.90] pray -[5614.90 --> 5616.18] amen -[5616.18 --> 5643.16] my soul -[5643.16 --> 5644.06] lives rest -[5644.06 --> 5645.00] in God -[5645.00 --> 5646.36] alone -[5646.36 --> 5647.82] my rock -[5647.82 --> 5648.64] and my -[5648.64 --> 5650.42] salvation -[5650.42 --> 5652.60] my fortress -[5652.60 --> 5653.74] on the -[5653.74 --> 5654.22] face -[5654.22 --> 5655.68] my foes -[5655.68 --> 5656.98] and I -[5656.98 --> 5657.90] will not -[5657.90 --> 5659.54] be shaken -[5659.54 --> 5660.98] though -[5660.98 --> 5661.94] lives may -[5661.94 --> 5662.42] bless -[5662.42 --> 5662.84] and -[5662.84 --> 5663.30] hearts -[5663.30 --> 5663.78] may -[5663.78 --> 5664.86] curse -[5664.86 --> 5665.48] and -[5665.48 --> 5666.00] lies -[5666.00 --> 5666.42] like -[5666.42 --> 5667.20] arrows -[5667.20 --> 5668.02] near -[5668.02 --> 5669.04] see -[5669.04 --> 5670.00] I'll -[5670.00 --> 5670.42] fix -[5670.42 --> 5670.90] my -[5670.90 --> 5671.40] heart -[5671.40 --> 5673.58] unrighteousness -[5673.58 --> 5674.56] I'll -[5674.56 --> 5675.36] look to -[5675.36 --> 5675.94] him -[5675.94 --> 5676.30] who -[5676.30 --> 5677.28] hears -[5677.28 --> 5678.40] me -[5678.40 --> 5679.74] oh -[5679.74 --> 5681.02] praise -[5681.02 --> 5681.92] him -[5681.92 --> 5682.44] all -[5682.44 --> 5682.88] all -[5682.88 --> 5684.24] all -[5684.24 --> 5685.04] my -[5685.04 --> 5685.96] divine -[5685.96 --> 5686.46] and -[5686.46 --> 5687.34] my -[5687.34 --> 5688.88] reward -[5688.88 --> 5690.56] never -[5690.56 --> 5691.94] passing -[5691.94 --> 5693.30] never -[5693.30 --> 5694.68] failing -[5694.68 --> 5695.68] my -[5695.68 --> 5697.28] redeemer -[5697.28 --> 5698.74] my -[5698.74 --> 5699.72] God -[5699.72 --> 5708.94] find -[5708.94 --> 5709.34] trust -[5709.34 --> 5709.76] my -[5709.76 --> 5710.22] soul -[5710.22 --> 5710.66] in -[5710.66 --> 5711.20] God -[5711.20 --> 5712.46] alone -[5712.46 --> 5713.68] amid -[5713.68 --> 5714.10] the -[5714.10 --> 5714.72] world's -[5714.72 --> 5716.76] temptations -[5716.76 --> 5717.72] when -[5717.72 --> 5718.34] evil -[5718.34 --> 5718.90] seems -[5718.90 --> 5719.26] to -[5719.26 --> 5719.88] take -[5719.88 --> 5721.22] a hold -[5721.22 --> 5722.06] I'll -[5722.06 --> 5722.38] bring -[5722.38 --> 5722.74] to -[5722.74 --> 5723.28] my -[5723.28 --> 5724.76] salvation -[5724.76 --> 5725.76] love -[5725.76 --> 5726.30] though -[5726.30 --> 5726.94] riches -[5726.94 --> 5727.64] come -[5727.64 --> 5728.06] and -[5728.06 --> 5728.56] riches -[5728.56 --> 5729.78] go -[5729.78 --> 5730.66] don't -[5730.66 --> 5731.08] set -[5731.08 --> 5731.48] your -[5731.48 --> 5732.02] heart -[5732.02 --> 5732.98] upon -[5732.98 --> 5734.08] them -[5734.08 --> 5734.92] the -[5734.92 --> 5735.46] fields -[5735.46 --> 5735.86] of -[5735.86 --> 5736.32] hope -[5736.32 --> 5736.70] in -[5736.70 --> 5737.14] which -[5737.14 --> 5737.54] I -[5737.54 --> 5738.40] sow -[5738.40 --> 5739.30] our -[5739.30 --> 5740.08] harvest -[5740.08 --> 5740.68] set -[5740.68 --> 5741.08] in -[5741.08 --> 5741.98] heaven -[5741.98 --> 5742.98] love -[5742.98 --> 5743.98] love -[5743.98 --> 5744.20] oh -[5744.20 --> 5745.42] praise -[5745.42 --> 5746.32] dear -[5746.32 --> 5748.10] hallelujah -[5748.10 --> 5749.72] find me -[5749.72 --> 5750.20] life -[5750.20 --> 5751.48] and guide -[5751.48 --> 5752.20] me -[5752.20 --> 5753.58] home -[5753.58 --> 5754.52] never -[5754.52 --> 5755.68] lost -[5755.68 --> 5756.48] faith -[5756.48 --> 5757.18] never -[5757.18 --> 5758.26] can -[5758.26 --> 5758.80] thee -[5758.80 --> 5759.52] my -[5759.52 --> 5760.92] redeemer -[5760.92 --> 5762.36] my -[5762.36 --> 5763.20] God -[5763.20 --> 5764.20] love -[5764.20 --> 5772.48] I'll -[5772.48 --> 5772.84] set -[5772.84 --> 5773.32] my -[5773.32 --> 5773.82] days -[5773.82 --> 5774.20] on -[5774.20 --> 5774.70] God -[5774.70 --> 5775.90] alone -[5775.90 --> 5776.68] and -[5776.68 --> 5777.18] trust -[5777.18 --> 5777.58] in -[5777.58 --> 5778.04] him -[5778.04 --> 5779.28] completely -[5779.28 --> 5780.96] with -[5780.96 --> 5781.52] every -[5781.52 --> 5782.14] day -[5782.14 --> 5782.62] pour -[5782.62 --> 5783.00] out -[5783.00 --> 5783.40] my -[5783.40 --> 5784.28] soul -[5784.28 --> 5785.16] and -[5785.16 --> 5785.54] he -[5785.54 --> 5785.90] will -[5785.90 --> 5786.42] prove -[5786.42 --> 5786.88] his -[5786.88 --> 5788.02] mercy -[5788.02 --> 5789.26] though -[5789.26 --> 5789.76] life -[5789.76 --> 5790.16] is -[5790.16 --> 5790.58] not -[5790.58 --> 5790.98] a -[5790.98 --> 5791.56] bleeding -[5791.56 --> 5792.82] world -[5792.82 --> 5793.52] a -[5793.52 --> 5793.96] sign -[5793.96 --> 5794.36] to -[5794.36 --> 5794.78] bring -[5794.78 --> 5795.20] to -[5795.20 --> 5796.24] measure -[5796.24 --> 5797.74] my -[5797.74 --> 5798.16] king -[5798.16 --> 5798.54] has -[5798.54 --> 5799.02] crushed -[5799.02 --> 5799.44] the -[5799.44 --> 5799.90] curse -[5799.90 --> 5800.30] of -[5800.30 --> 5801.10] death -[5801.10 --> 5802.00] and -[5802.00 --> 5802.46] I -[5802.46 --> 5802.82] am -[5802.82 --> 5803.24] dead -[5803.24 --> 5804.66] forever -[5804.66 --> 5806.64] all -[5806.64 --> 5807.04] of -[5807.04 --> 5807.96] praise -[5807.96 --> 5808.54] dear -[5808.54 --> 5810.60] hallelujah -[5810.60 --> 5811.72] I -[5811.72 --> 5812.14] be -[5812.14 --> 5812.62] mine -[5812.62 --> 5813.02] and -[5813.02 --> 5813.82] I -[5813.82 --> 5814.38] be -[5814.38 --> 5815.92] whole -[5815.92 --> 5818.08] everlasting -[5818.08 --> 5819.48] never -[5819.48 --> 5820.86] failing -[5820.86 --> 5821.82] my -[5821.82 --> 5823.46] redeemer -[5823.46 --> 5824.56] my -[5824.56 --> 5825.78] God -[5825.78 --> 5826.84] all -[5826.84 --> 5827.24] of -[5827.24 --> 5828.20] praise -[5828.20 --> 5828.86] him -[5828.86 --> 5830.78] hallelujah -[5830.78 --> 5831.98] my -[5831.98 --> 5832.80] delight -[5832.80 --> 5833.26] and -[5833.26 --> 5834.04] my -[5834.04 --> 5836.22] reward -[5836.22 --> 5837.78] everlasting -[5837.78 --> 5840.06] never -[5840.06 --> 5841.56] failing -[5841.56 --> 5842.52] my -[5842.52 --> 5844.00] redeemer -[5844.00 --> 5845.56] my -[5845.56 --> 5847.10] love -[5847.10 --> 5860.36] you -[5860.36 --> 5860.56] may -[5860.56 --> 5860.80] have -[5860.80 --> 5860.94] a -[5860.94 --> 5861.18] quick -[5861.18 --> 5861.62] seat -[5861.62 --> 5862.86] there -[5862.86 --> 5863.00] is -[5863.00 --> 5863.36] one -[5863.36 --> 5863.68] more -[5863.68 --> 5864.18] thing -[5864.18 --> 5864.52] we -[5864.52 --> 5864.78] need -[5864.78 --> 5864.92] to -[5864.92 --> 5865.28] acknowledge -[5865.28 --> 5865.42] and -[5865.42 --> 5865.52] I -[5865.52 --> 5865.60] want -[5865.60 --> 5865.66] to -[5865.66 --> 5865.80] make -[5865.80 --> 5865.94] sure -[5865.94 --> 5866.20] Matt -[5866.20 --> 5866.38] this -[5866.38 --> 5866.60] mic -[5866.60 --> 5866.72] is -[5866.72 --> 5866.92] good -[5866.92 --> 5867.92] we -[5867.92 --> 5868.06] can -[5868.06 --> 5868.22] just -[5868.22 --> 5868.42] like -[5868.42 --> 5868.54] go -[5868.54 --> 5868.74] from -[5868.74 --> 5868.86] here -[5868.86 --> 5869.04] okay -[5869.04 --> 5869.22] good -[5869.22 --> 5869.40] because -[5869.40 --> 5869.50] you -[5869.50 --> 5869.62] need -[5869.62 --> 5869.74] to -[5869.74 --> 5869.92] leave -[5869.92 --> 5870.08] that -[5870.08 --> 5870.30] booth -[5870.30 --> 5870.44] I -[5870.44 --> 5870.54] would -[5870.54 --> 5870.68] like -[5870.68 --> 5870.80] to -[5870.80 --> 5871.06] invite -[5871.06 --> 5871.50] Matt -[5871.50 --> 5871.74] and -[5871.74 --> 5872.30] Nicole -[5872.30 --> 5872.82] Woods -[5872.82 --> 5873.02] to -[5873.02 --> 5873.26] come -[5873.26 --> 5873.70] forward -[5873.70 --> 5873.92] for -[5873.92 --> 5874.12] a -[5874.12 --> 5874.52] second -[5874.52 --> 5876.36] these -[5876.36 --> 5876.86] two -[5876.86 --> 5877.62] people -[5877.62 --> 5878.72] are -[5878.72 --> 5879.30] this -[5879.30 --> 5879.84] week -[5879.84 --> 5880.56] as -[5880.56 --> 5880.70] they -[5880.70 --> 5880.88] make -[5880.88 --> 5881.02] their -[5881.02 --> 5881.14] way -[5881.14 --> 5881.32] up -[5881.32 --> 5881.48] here -[5881.48 --> 5881.84] moving -[5881.84 --> 5882.06] to -[5882.06 --> 5882.26] the -[5882.26 --> 5882.60] island -[5882.60 --> 5883.96] and -[5883.96 --> 5884.32] so -[5884.32 --> 5884.96] we -[5884.96 --> 5885.36] wanted -[5885.36 --> 5885.60] to -[5885.60 --> 5886.14] acknowledge -[5886.14 --> 5886.64] them -[5886.64 --> 5886.78] and -[5886.78 --> 5886.96] all -[5886.96 --> 5887.08] their -[5887.08 --> 5887.26] work -[5887.26 --> 5887.74] Nicole -[5887.74 --> 5888.08] here -[5888.08 --> 5888.30] has -[5888.30 --> 5888.58] gone -[5888.58 --> 5888.76] to -[5888.76 --> 5889.02] this -[5889.02 --> 5889.46] church -[5889.46 --> 5890.26] I -[5890.26 --> 5890.38] don't -[5890.38 --> 5890.56] know -[5890.56 --> 5891.50] most -[5891.50 --> 5891.68] of -[5891.68 --> 5891.80] your -[5891.80 --> 5892.16] conscious -[5892.16 --> 5892.56] life -[5892.56 --> 5892.92] if -[5892.92 --> 5893.10] not -[5893.10 --> 5893.26] your -[5893.26 --> 5893.60] entire -[5893.60 --> 5893.84] life -[5893.84 --> 5894.02] I -[5894.02 --> 5894.18] have -[5894.18 --> 5894.38] known -[5894.38 --> 5894.52] her -[5894.52 --> 5894.68] since -[5894.68 --> 5894.82] she -[5894.82 --> 5894.94] was -[5894.94 --> 5895.08] in -[5895.08 --> 5895.30] grade -[5895.30 --> 5895.76] seven -[5895.76 --> 5896.62] so -[5896.62 --> 5897.00] before -[5897.00 --> 5897.26] she -[5897.26 --> 5897.42] was -[5897.42 --> 5897.64] even -[5897.64 --> 5897.82] in -[5897.82 --> 5898.00] youth -[5898.00 --> 5898.50] ministry -[5898.50 --> 5898.82] and -[5898.82 --> 5899.02] then -[5899.02 --> 5899.20] she -[5899.20 --> 5899.40] did -[5899.40 --> 5899.62] youth -[5899.62 --> 5900.04] ministry -[5900.04 --> 5900.46] for -[5900.46 --> 5901.84] the -[5901.84 --> 5902.22] five -[5902.22 --> 5902.52] years -[5902.52 --> 5902.70] there -[5902.70 --> 5902.92] she -[5902.92 --> 5903.28] went -[5903.28 --> 5903.48] to -[5903.48 --> 5904.08] Mexico -[5904.08 --> 5904.46] she -[5904.46 --> 5904.68] did -[5904.68 --> 5904.84] all -[5904.84 --> 5905.00] the -[5905.00 --> 5905.24] youth -[5905.24 --> 5905.52] camp -[5905.52 --> 5905.72] she -[5905.72 --> 5905.98] was -[5905.98 --> 5906.40] like -[5906.40 --> 5907.20] one -[5907.20 --> 5907.32] of -[5907.32 --> 5907.44] the -[5907.44 --> 5907.94] examples -[5907.94 --> 5908.24] for -[5908.24 --> 5908.40] all -[5908.40 --> 5908.52] of -[5908.52 --> 5908.60] the -[5908.60 --> 5908.76] youth -[5908.76 --> 5909.02] except -[5909.02 --> 5909.18] for -[5909.18 --> 5909.46] youth -[5909.46 --> 5909.70] camp -[5909.70 --> 5909.84] where -[5909.84 --> 5909.94] she -[5909.94 --> 5910.12] got -[5910.12 --> 5910.24] in -[5910.24 --> 5910.44] trouble -[5910.44 --> 5911.04] constantly -[5911.04 --> 5912.44] actually -[5912.44 --> 5912.70] we -[5912.70 --> 5913.06] had -[5913.06 --> 5913.20] to -[5913.20 --> 5913.36] keep -[5913.36 --> 5913.64] making -[5913.64 --> 5914.00] stuff -[5914.00 --> 5914.28] up -[5914.28 --> 5914.54] that -[5914.54 --> 5914.72] she -[5914.72 --> 5914.94] did -[5914.94 --> 5915.24] wrong -[5915.24 --> 5915.52] because -[5915.52 --> 5915.70] we -[5915.70 --> 5915.94] wanted -[5915.94 --> 5916.08] her -[5916.08 --> 5916.22] to -[5916.22 --> 5916.58] partake -[5916.58 --> 5916.68] in -[5916.68 --> 5916.80] the -[5916.80 --> 5917.28] punishments -[5917.28 --> 5917.42] at -[5917.42 --> 5917.54] the -[5917.54 --> 5917.72] end -[5917.72 --> 5917.86] of -[5917.86 --> 5918.04] youth -[5918.04 --> 5918.38] camp -[5918.38 --> 5918.56] and -[5918.56 --> 5918.90] so -[5918.90 --> 5919.64] we -[5919.64 --> 5919.82] I -[5919.82 --> 5919.88] don't -[5919.88 --> 5919.98] know -[5919.98 --> 5920.20] my -[5920.20 --> 5920.46] favorite -[5920.46 --> 5920.66] one -[5920.66 --> 5920.84] was -[5920.84 --> 5921.12] sleep -[5921.12 --> 5921.58] swearing -[5921.58 --> 5921.92] I -[5921.92 --> 5922.14] think -[5922.14 --> 5922.34] that -[5922.34 --> 5922.46] we -[5922.46 --> 5922.68] said -[5922.68 --> 5922.82] you -[5922.82 --> 5923.08] did -[5923.08 --> 5923.36] at -[5923.36 --> 5923.54] youth -[5923.54 --> 5923.86] camp -[5923.86 --> 5924.22] yeah -[5924.22 --> 5924.90] yeah -[5924.90 --> 5925.98] anyways -[5925.98 --> 5926.52] she -[5926.52 --> 5927.42] became -[5927.42 --> 5928.22] a -[5928.22 --> 5928.78] friend -[5928.78 --> 5929.14] of our -[5929.14 --> 5929.52] family -[5929.52 --> 5929.82] as -[5929.82 --> 5930.04] well -[5930.04 --> 5930.24] she -[5930.24 --> 5930.94] babysat -[5930.94 --> 5931.14] our -[5931.14 --> 5931.34] kids -[5931.34 --> 5931.52] she -[5931.52 --> 5931.70] came -[5931.70 --> 5931.80] to -[5931.80 --> 5931.94] the -[5931.94 --> 5932.36] hospital -[5932.36 --> 5932.62] when -[5932.62 --> 5932.78] we -[5932.78 --> 5932.98] had -[5941.04 --> 5941.24] about -[5941.24 --> 5941.54] four -[5941.54 --> 5941.68] or -[5941.68 --> 5941.88] five -[5941.88 --> 5942.10] years -[5942.10 --> 5942.46] ago -[5942.46 --> 5943.14] when -[5943.14 --> 5943.50] we -[5943.50 --> 5944.00] had -[5944.00 --> 5944.14] a -[5944.14 --> 5944.28] few -[5944.28 --> 5944.60] people -[5944.60 --> 5944.84] leave -[5944.84 --> 5944.96] our -[5944.96 --> 5945.16] church -[5945.16 --> 5945.38] for -[5945.38 --> 5945.82] various -[5945.82 --> 5946.14] reasons -[5946.14 --> 5946.32] we -[5946.32 --> 5946.44] were -[5946.44 --> 5946.68] short -[5946.68 --> 5946.88] on -[5946.88 --> 5947.34] drummers -[5947.34 --> 5948.06] and -[5948.06 --> 5948.20] we -[5948.20 --> 5948.46] said -[5948.46 --> 5948.74] hey -[5948.74 --> 5949.80] church -[5949.80 --> 5950.34] we -[5950.34 --> 5950.92] need -[5950.92 --> 5951.08] a -[5951.08 --> 5951.34] drummer -[5951.34 --> 5951.66] or -[5951.66 --> 5951.92] two -[5951.92 --> 5952.10] so -[5952.10 --> 5952.22] if -[5952.22 --> 5952.32] you -[5952.32 --> 5952.54] know -[5952.54 --> 5952.92] anyone -[5952.92 --> 5953.16] can -[5953.16 --> 5953.26] you -[5953.26 --> 5953.40] let -[5953.40 --> 5953.56] us -[5953.56 --> 5953.82] know -[5953.82 --> 5954.02] and -[5954.02 --> 5954.40] Nicole -[5954.40 --> 5954.66] came -[5954.66 --> 5954.78] up -[5954.78 --> 5954.86] to -[5954.86 --> 5954.96] me -[5954.96 --> 5955.14] after -[5955.14 --> 5955.30] the -[5955.30 --> 5955.52] servant -[5955.52 --> 5955.78] said -[5955.78 --> 5956.12] well -[5956.12 --> 5956.90] my -[5956.90 --> 5957.38] boyfriend -[5957.38 --> 5957.86] kind -[5957.86 --> 5957.96] of -[5957.96 --> 5958.16] knows -[5958.16 --> 5958.34] how -[5958.34 --> 5958.44] to -[5958.44 --> 5958.64] play -[5958.64 --> 5958.98] drums -[5958.98 --> 5959.14] a -[5959.14 --> 5959.28] little -[5959.28 --> 5959.56] bit -[5959.56 --> 5960.62] and -[5960.62 --> 5960.88] so -[5960.88 --> 5961.22] Matt -[5961.22 --> 5961.50] showed -[5961.50 --> 5961.70] up -[5961.70 --> 5961.84] a -[5961.84 --> 5962.00] week -[5962.00 --> 5962.34] later -[5962.34 --> 5963.30] and -[5963.30 --> 5963.70] joined -[5963.70 --> 5963.94] our -[5963.94 --> 5964.28] team -[5964.28 --> 5964.62] and -[5964.62 --> 5964.96] he's -[5964.96 --> 5965.18] been -[5965.18 --> 5965.46] kind -[5965.46 --> 5965.56] of -[5965.56 --> 5965.74] coming -[5965.74 --> 5965.96] here -[5965.96 --> 5966.14] ever -[5966.14 --> 5966.50] since -[5966.50 --> 5967.78] he -[5967.78 --> 5968.74] has -[5968.74 --> 5969.00] not -[5969.00 --> 5969.22] just -[5969.22 --> 5969.60] drummed -[5969.60 --> 5969.72] or -[5969.72 --> 5969.92] played -[5969.92 --> 5970.06] on -[5970.06 --> 5970.32] worship -[5970.32 --> 5970.58] he -[5970.58 --> 5970.82] has -[5970.82 --> 5971.02] been -[5971.02 --> 5971.22] an -[5971.22 --> 5971.62] integral -[5971.62 --> 5972.00] part -[5972.00 --> 5972.18] of -[5972.18 --> 5972.42] this -[5972.42 --> 5972.80] church -[5972.80 --> 5973.26] for -[5973.26 --> 5973.36] the -[5973.36 --> 5973.56] last -[5973.56 --> 5973.88] five -[5973.88 --> 5974.16] years -[5974.16 --> 5974.78] if -[5974.78 --> 5974.98] you -[5974.98 --> 5975.38] ever -[5975.38 --> 5975.90] watched -[5975.90 --> 5976.14] our -[5976.14 --> 5976.56] services -[5976.56 --> 5977.30] online -[5977.30 --> 5978.48] Matt -[5978.48 --> 5979.12] was -[5979.12 --> 5979.82] very -[5979.82 --> 5980.22] key -[5980.22 --> 5980.50] along -[5980.50 --> 5980.66] with -[5980.66 --> 5980.80] the -[5980.80 --> 5981.04] IT -[5981.04 --> 5981.40] team -[5981.40 --> 5981.56] in -[5981.56 --> 5981.80] setting -[5981.80 --> 5982.00] up -[5982.00 --> 5982.14] our -[5982.14 --> 5982.42] live -[5982.42 --> 5982.74] stream -[5982.74 --> 5983.18] he -[5983.18 --> 5983.38] has -[5983.38 --> 5983.74] changed -[5983.74 --> 5983.98] the -[5983.98 --> 5984.24] sound -[5984.24 --> 5984.46] board -[5984.46 --> 5984.60] in -[5984.60 --> 5984.70] the -[5984.70 --> 5984.92] back -[5984.92 --> 5985.04] he -[5985.04 --> 5985.16] has -[5985.16 --> 5985.38] made -[5985.38 --> 5985.62] this -[5985.62 --> 5985.98] church -[5985.98 --> 5986.72] sound -[5986.72 --> 5986.94] good -[5986.94 --> 5987.34] including -[5987.34 --> 5987.64] these -[5987.64 --> 5987.84] new -[5987.84 --> 5988.38] congregation -[5988.38 --> 5988.80] mics -[5988.80 --> 5989.18] and -[5989.18 --> 5989.32] an -[5989.32 --> 5989.52] extra -[5989.52 --> 5989.90] speaker -[5989.90 --> 5990.18] here -[5990.18 --> 5990.36] can -[5990.36 --> 5990.46] you -[5990.46 --> 5990.58] hear -[5990.58 --> 5990.72] us -[5990.72 --> 5990.82] in -[5990.82 --> 5990.92] the -[5990.92 --> 5991.18] corners -[5991.18 --> 5991.52] today -[5991.52 --> 5992.10] you -[5992.10 --> 5992.32] should -[5992.32 --> 5992.50] be -[5992.50 --> 5992.70] able -[5992.70 --> 5992.92] to -[5992.92 --> 5993.20] because -[5993.20 --> 5993.40] the -[5993.40 --> 5993.62] dead -[5993.62 --> 5993.96] spots -[5993.96 --> 5994.10] are -[5994.10 --> 5994.36] gone -[5994.36 --> 5994.66] because -[5994.66 --> 5994.94] Matt -[5994.94 --> 5995.24] hung up -[5995.24 --> 5995.58] speakers -[5995.58 --> 5995.90] this -[5995.90 --> 5996.20] week -[5996.20 --> 5996.46] for -[5996.46 --> 5996.82] us -[5996.82 --> 5997.42] as -[5997.42 --> 5997.66] well -[5997.66 --> 5998.04] so -[5998.04 --> 6001.66] we -[6001.66 --> 6002.16] should -[6002.16 --> 6002.78] give -[6002.78 --> 6003.60] a -[6003.60 --> 6004.08] big -[6004.08 --> 6004.52] thank you -[6004.52 --> 6004.66] to -[6004.66 --> 6004.88] them -[6004.88 --> 6005.22] after -[6005.22 --> 6005.42] the -[6005.42 --> 6005.68] service -[6005.68 --> 6005.86] I'm -[6005.86 --> 6005.92] going -[6005.92 --> 6005.96] to -[6005.96 --> 6006.10] make -[6006.10 --> 6006.18] you -[6006.18 --> 6006.44] clap -[6006.44 --> 6006.60] one -[6006.60 --> 6006.74] more -[6006.74 --> 6007.00] time -[6007.00 --> 6007.12] in -[6007.12 --> 6007.24] a -[6007.24 --> 6007.46] second -[6007.46 --> 6007.66] for -[6007.66 --> 6008.04] Nicole -[6008.04 --> 6008.32] who's -[6008.32 --> 6008.46] been -[6008.46 --> 6008.60] here -[6008.60 --> 6008.80] all -[6008.80 --> 6008.94] her -[6008.94 --> 6009.16] life -[6009.16 --> 6009.30] and -[6009.30 --> 6009.46] for -[6009.46 --> 6009.86] Nicole's -[6009.86 --> 6010.18] husband -[6010.18 --> 6010.56] Matt -[6010.56 --> 6011.10] who -[6011.10 --> 6011.32] has -[6011.32 --> 6011.58] come -[6011.58 --> 6011.82] and -[6011.82 --> 6011.98] done -[6011.98 --> 6012.16] just -[6012.16 --> 6012.40] some -[6012.40 --> 6013.00] excellent -[6013.00 --> 6013.92] work -[6013.92 --> 6014.92] here -[6014.92 --> 6015.34] he's -[6015.34 --> 6015.50] been -[6015.50 --> 6016.02] borderline -[6016.02 --> 6016.38] staff -[6016.38 --> 6016.64] he -[6016.64 --> 6016.92] during -[6016.92 --> 6017.06] the -[6017.06 --> 6017.40] pandemic -[6017.40 --> 6017.74] as -[6017.74 --> 6018.04] well -[6018.04 --> 6018.56] when -[6018.56 --> 6018.72] no -[6018.72 --> 6018.82] one -[6018.82 --> 6018.98] was -[6018.98 --> 6019.16] allowed -[6019.16 --> 6019.34] to -[6019.34 --> 6019.52] come -[6019.52 --> 6019.76] here -[6019.76 --> 6020.20] was -[6020.20 --> 6020.40] here -[6020.40 --> 6020.62] every -[6020.62 --> 6020.92] single -[6020.92 --> 6021.30] Sunday -[6021.30 --> 6021.74] making -[6021.74 --> 6021.96] sure -[6021.96 --> 6022.08] the -[6022.08 --> 6022.26] live -[6022.26 --> 6022.48] stream -[6022.48 --> 6022.72] worked -[6022.72 --> 6023.00] so -[6023.00 --> 6023.84] let's -[6023.84 --> 6024.10] thank -[6024.10 --> 6024.38] them -[6024.38 --> 6024.78] again -[6024.78 --> 6025.28] please -[6025.28 --> 6032.50] after -[6032.50 --> 6032.72] the -[6032.72 --> 6033.08] service -[6033.08 --> 6033.38] there's -[6033.38 --> 6033.48] going -[6033.48 --> 6033.52] to -[6033.52 --> 6033.64] be -[6033.64 --> 6034.10] coffee -[6034.10 --> 6035.26] for -[6035.26 --> 6035.48] us -[6035.48 --> 6035.72] to -[6035.72 --> 6035.96] enjoy -[6035.96 --> 6036.14] some -[6036.14 --> 6036.44] fellowship -[6036.44 --> 6036.76] together -[6036.76 --> 6036.98] we -[6036.98 --> 6037.20] also -[6037.20 --> 6037.48] bought -[6037.48 --> 6037.86] a -[6037.86 --> 6038.50] giant -[6038.50 --> 6038.72] ton -[6038.72 --> 6038.84] of -[6038.84 --> 6039.38] Oreos -[6039.38 --> 6039.84] because -[6039.84 --> 6040.18] Nicole -[6040.18 --> 6040.46] likes -[6040.46 --> 6041.04] Oreos -[6041.04 --> 6041.46] so -[6041.46 --> 6042.10] help -[6042.10 --> 6042.42] yourself -[6042.42 --> 6042.62] to -[6042.62 --> 6042.82] one -[6042.82 --> 6042.94] or -[6042.94 --> 6043.10] two -[6043.10 --> 6043.30] of -[6043.30 --> 6043.58] those -[6043.58 --> 6043.82] as -[6043.82 --> 6044.04] well -[6044.04 --> 6044.76] before -[6044.76 --> 6045.12] we -[6045.12 --> 6045.24] go -[6045.24 --> 6045.36] though -[6045.36 --> 6045.46] I -[6045.46 --> 6045.54] would -[6045.54 --> 6045.66] love -[6045.66 --> 6045.80] to -[6045.80 --> 6045.98] pray -[6045.98 --> 6046.16] for -[6046.16 --> 6046.44] this -[6046.44 --> 6047.24] couple -[6047.24 --> 6047.44] so -[6047.44 --> 6047.66] please -[6047.66 --> 6047.96] extend -[6047.96 --> 6048.12] your -[6048.12 --> 6048.38] hands -[6048.38 --> 6048.54] as -[6048.54 --> 6048.66] we -[6048.66 --> 6048.76] do -[6048.76 --> 6048.96] that -[6048.96 --> 6049.80] Father -[6049.80 --> 6050.00] God -[6050.00 --> 6050.18] we -[6050.18 --> 6050.38] thank -[6050.38 --> 6050.52] you -[6050.52 --> 6050.74] so -[6050.74 --> 6051.00] much -[6051.00 --> 6051.28] for -[6051.28 --> 6051.72] Nicole -[6051.72 --> 6051.96] and -[6051.96 --> 6052.14] for -[6052.14 --> 6052.42] Matt -[6052.42 --> 6052.64] and -[6052.64 --> 6053.08] for -[6053.08 --> 6053.68] just -[6053.68 --> 6053.82] the -[6053.82 --> 6054.34] incredible -[6054.34 --> 6054.68] couple -[6054.68 --> 6054.84] they -[6054.84 --> 6055.00] have -[6055.00 --> 6055.22] been -[6055.22 --> 6055.66] the -[6055.66 --> 6056.06] leadership -[6056.06 --> 6056.34] they -[6056.34 --> 6056.46] have -[6056.46 --> 6056.74] shown -[6056.74 --> 6056.88] in -[6056.88 --> 6057.12] this -[6057.12 --> 6057.82] church -[6057.82 --> 6058.10] Lord -[6058.10 --> 6058.40] from -[6058.40 --> 6059.20] youth -[6059.20 --> 6059.54] leading -[6059.54 --> 6059.96] to -[6059.96 --> 6060.48] children's -[6060.48 --> 6060.66] worship -[6060.66 --> 6060.96] time -[6060.96 --> 6061.12] to -[6061.12 --> 6061.36] running -[6061.36 --> 6061.52] the -[6061.52 --> 6061.76] social -[6061.76 --> 6062.14] media -[6062.14 --> 6062.58] to -[6062.58 --> 6062.92] helping -[6062.92 --> 6063.22] with -[6063.22 --> 6063.76] sound -[6063.76 --> 6064.36] and -[6064.36 --> 6064.88] audio -[6064.88 --> 6065.22] and -[6065.22 --> 6065.50] tech -[6065.50 --> 6065.72] in -[6065.72 --> 6065.82] the -[6065.82 --> 6066.06] back -[6066.06 --> 6066.22] Lord -[6066.22 --> 6066.40] they -[6066.40 --> 6066.64] have -[6066.64 --> 6066.86] been -[6066.86 --> 6067.06] a -[6067.06 --> 6067.42] blessing -[6067.42 --> 6067.68] to -[6067.68 --> 6067.98] us -[6067.98 --> 6068.44] and -[6068.44 --> 6068.64] we -[6068.64 --> 6069.00] pray -[6069.00 --> 6069.28] for -[6069.28 --> 6069.76] nothing -[6069.76 --> 6070.46] but -[6070.46 --> 6070.96] your -[6070.96 --> 6071.76] blessings -[6071.76 --> 6072.10] on -[6072.10 --> 6072.34] them -[6072.34 --> 6072.56] as -[6072.56 --> 6072.72] they -[6072.72 --> 6072.96] move -[6072.96 --> 6073.10] to -[6073.10 --> 6073.28] the -[6073.28 --> 6073.56] island -[6073.56 --> 6074.30] and -[6074.30 --> 6074.78] continue -[6074.78 --> 6075.26] serving -[6075.26 --> 6075.62] you -[6075.62 --> 6075.96] over -[6075.96 --> 6076.26] there -[6076.26 --> 6076.52] so -[6076.52 --> 6076.72] may -[6076.72 --> 6076.86] you -[6076.86 --> 6077.02] be -[6077.02 --> 6077.30] with -[6077.30 --> 6077.52] them -[6077.52 --> 6077.76] to -[6077.76 --> 6078.08] guide -[6078.08 --> 6078.34] them -[6078.34 --> 6078.66] may -[6078.66 --> 6078.82] they -[6078.82 --> 6079.08] seek -[6079.08 --> 6079.24] you -[6079.24 --> 6079.34] in -[6079.34 --> 6079.56] all -[6079.56 --> 6079.94] things -[6079.94 --> 6080.48] God -[6080.48 --> 6080.62] and -[6080.62 --> 6080.72] we -[6080.72 --> 6080.96] thank -[6080.96 --> 6081.08] you -[6081.08 --> 6081.30] so -[6081.30 --> 6081.54] much -[6081.54 --> 6081.70] for -[6081.70 --> 6081.86] them -[6081.86 --> 6082.00] we -[6082.00 --> 6082.14] pray -[6082.14 --> 6082.32] this -[6082.32 --> 6082.42] in -[6082.42 --> 6082.54] your -[6082.54 --> 6082.82] name -[6082.82 --> 6083.54] amen -[6083.54 --> 6101.90] I'm going to -[6101.90 --> 6102.16] invite you -[6102.16 --> 6102.60] to stand -[6102.60 --> 6103.74] we are -[6103.74 --> 6103.92] going to -[6103.92 --> 6104.28] go -[6104.28 --> 6105.08] with -[6105.08 --> 6105.92] God's -[6105.92 --> 6107.06] blessing -[6107.06 --> 6109.12] God -[6109.12 --> 6109.54] is -[6109.54 --> 6109.98] for -[6109.98 --> 6110.32] us -[6110.32 --> 6110.74] and so -[6110.74 --> 6111.30] I -[6111.30 --> 6111.54] thought -[6111.54 --> 6111.80] it -[6111.80 --> 6112.26] appropriate -[6112.26 --> 6112.62] to -[6112.62 --> 6112.94] finish -[6112.94 --> 6113.26] with -[6113.26 --> 6113.56] this -[6113.56 --> 6114.16] blessing -[6114.16 --> 6114.68] from -[6114.68 --> 6115.38] Jude -[6115.38 --> 6115.88] the -[6115.88 --> 6116.08] very -[6116.08 --> 6116.46] words -[6116.46 --> 6116.62] of -[6116.62 --> 6116.90] God -[6116.90 --> 6117.42] spoken -[6117.42 --> 6118.50] directly -[6118.50 --> 6118.80] to -[6118.80 --> 6119.00] your -[6119.00 --> 6119.34] heart -[6119.34 --> 6119.72] and -[6119.72 --> 6120.12] life -[6120.12 --> 6120.82] receive -[6120.82 --> 6122.04] God's -[6122.04 --> 6122.78] blessing -[6122.78 --> 6124.56] to -[6124.56 --> 6124.88] him -[6124.88 --> 6125.18] who -[6125.18 --> 6125.54] is -[6125.54 --> 6125.90] able -[6125.90 --> 6126.14] to -[6126.14 --> 6126.44] keep -[6126.44 --> 6126.62] you -[6126.62 --> 6126.88] from -[6126.88 --> 6127.42] stumbling -[6127.42 --> 6128.18] and -[6128.18 --> 6128.38] to -[6128.38 --> 6128.86] present -[6128.86 --> 6129.22] you -[6129.22 --> 6129.60] before -[6129.60 --> 6130.12] his -[6130.12 --> 6130.96] glorious -[6130.96 --> 6131.60] presence -[6131.60 --> 6132.10] without -[6132.10 --> 6132.68] fault -[6132.68 --> 6133.24] and -[6133.24 --> 6133.52] with -[6133.52 --> 6133.90] great -[6133.90 --> 6134.32] joy -[6134.32 --> 6135.28] to -[6135.28 --> 6135.44] the -[6135.44 --> 6135.76] only -[6135.76 --> 6136.22] God -[6136.22 --> 6136.52] our -[6136.52 --> 6136.90] Savior -[6136.90 --> 6137.20] be -[6137.20 --> 6137.78] glory -[6137.78 --> 6138.62] majesty -[6138.62 --> 6139.22] power -[6139.22 --> 6139.62] and -[6139.62 --> 6140.14] authority -[6140.14 --> 6140.84] through -[6140.84 --> 6141.30] Jesus -[6141.30 --> 6141.82] Christ -[6141.82 --> 6142.22] our -[6142.22 --> 6142.60] Lord -[6142.60 --> 6143.04] before -[6143.04 --> 6143.62] all -[6143.62 --> 6144.06] ages -[6144.06 --> 6144.92] now -[6144.92 --> 6145.48] and -[6145.48 --> 6146.02] forever -[6146.02 --> 6146.48] more -[6146.48 --> 6147.32] all -[6147.32 --> 6147.58] God's -[6147.58 --> 6147.74] people -[6147.74 --> 6148.06] said -[6148.06 --> 6149.42] amen -[6149.42 --> 6152.42] parnging -[6162.36 --> 6164.16] to -[6164.16 --> 6164.56] ca relied -[6164.60 --> 6165.78] high -[6165.78 --> 6166.48] in -[6166.48 --> 6166.70] accustomed -[6166.70 --> 6167.98] to -[6167.98 --> 6168.80] all -[6168.80 --> 6170.06] they -[6170.06 --> 6170.92] found -[6170.92 --> 6171.78] great -[6171.78 --> 6178.76] And unto the Lamb -[6178.76 --> 6181.60] Praise and glory -[6181.60 --> 6184.36] All seven things -[6184.36 --> 6187.08] Honor and power -[6187.08 --> 6189.76] And strength -[6189.76 --> 6192.52] Be to our God -[6192.52 --> 6195.44] Forever and ever -[6195.44 --> 6197.94] Be to our God -[6197.94 --> 6200.98] Forever and ever -[6200.98 --> 6203.44] Be to our God -[6203.44 --> 6206.44] Forever and ever -[6206.44 --> 6207.58] Amen -[6207.58 --> 6214.18] And we the redeemed -[6214.18 --> 6216.36] Shall be strong -[6216.36 --> 6222.28] In purpose and unity -[6222.28 --> 6227.98] Declaring upon us -[6227.98 --> 6230.44] Praise and glory -[6230.44 --> 6233.44] With love and faith -[6233.44 --> 6235.44] Honor and power -[6235.44 --> 6238.44] And strength -[6238.44 --> 6241.36] Be to our God -[6241.36 --> 6244.18] Forever and ever -[6244.18 --> 6246.64] Be to our God -[6246.64 --> 6249.64] Forever and ever -[6249.64 --> 6251.64] Be to our God -[6251.64 --> 6254.64] Forever and ever -[6254.64 --> 6256.64] Amen -[6256.64 --> 6262.64] Be to our God -[6262.64 --> 6264.64] Forever and ever -[6264.64 --> 6282.10] reasons -[6282.10 --> 6292.10] these感 -[6292.10 --> 6297.98] be to our God forever and ever. Amen. -[6322.10 --> 6324.10] Amen. -[6352.10 --> 6354.10] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 27 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 27 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2b3580d86b86e8d15b0c0c1bbe01f8053f75af9b..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 27 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,107 +0,0 @@ -• Jesus Christ is described as the Lion of Judah, roaring with power and fighting battles -• Every knee will bow before Him -• The Lamb that was slain for the sin of the world breaks chains -• God's blood sets captives free -• Jesus is a lion and lamb, powerful and holy -• Worship service announcements are made -• New ladies group called Walk and Talk starting up, meeting at Derrick Doubleday Arboretum on June 29 -• Children's worship time volunteers needed for summer months -• Youth group meeting tonight at Williams Park -• Provincial government announcements may impact gatherings and activities -• Need for nursery volunteers as worship returns to normal operations -• Call to worship from Exodus 15 -• Song "My Hope is Built on Nothing Less" -• Song "Weak Made Strong" and other hymns -• Prayer of confession and assurance -• Recognition of God's presence in daily life -• Request for forgiveness, freedom from shame, and help to honor God -• The speaker introduces themselves and their children's worship service -• A prayer is said for the children and community -• The story of Paul from the Bible, specifically "Shipwreck", is introduced as today's topic -• A video is shown about a ship taking a ride on the Fraser River, with Captain Jake as the chauffeur -• Rules are established for the boat ride, including no peeing off the side and exaggerating any caught fish by twice its size -• Cruising up the river and observing various boats and activities -• Discussing the reason for idle fishing boats and conservation efforts to protect salmon -• Exploring shipwrecks, old boats, and abandoned vessels along the riverbank -• Visiting a lumber mill and understanding its purpose in relation to log booms on the river -• Touring a boat (a 12-foot Lund) and discussing its features and capabilities -• Observing various barges and their potential uses for wood products -• Cruising at high speed across the river and admiring houses along the way -• A group went on a hike and boat ride on the Fraser River -• The story of Paul's shipwreck was told to illustrate God's faithfulness and plan for individuals -• Paul preached about Jesus despite being in danger, and an angel appeared to him during the storm -• The prisoners and crew jumped overboard and swam safely to shore after the ship broke apart -• Four young people from the church are publicly professing their faith today, following two others who did so last week -• Ben Walsher shares his profession of faith and thanks the church for its impact on his life -• He mentions God's faithfulness to him, his family, and the church over 21 years -• Meg Prince, Ben's spiritual mentor and youth leader, speaks on behalf of many youth leaders in the church -• She praises Ben for standing up for his faith and encourages him to continue making a profession of it in various situations -• The Holy Spirit is working through Ben, allowing him to testify to God's goodness -• Ben has been an influence on others through his Bible studies and interactions with those around him -• Haley Walsher shares her story of growing up in a Christian home and family, but emphasizes that it's not about her, but rather God's faithfulness -• The speakers emphasize the importance of faith and community in shaping their lives and relationships with God -• Changing from childhood reliance on others' faith to developing own relationship with God -• Turning point in grade 11 when switching schools led to growth and strengthening of faith -• Influence of parents, family, church community, and youth leaders in Christian development -• Reading Bible daily, starting with Psalms and Proverbs, and memorizing key verses (e.g. Proverbs 31:25) -• Reflections on personal faith journey and experiences -• Public profession of faith and recognition by others (Kevin and McElty) -• A person shares their favorite missions trip experience from two years ago in Mexico -• The speaker reflects on the lessons learned and how it strengthened their faith -• They express admiration for Carson's dedication, discipline, and ability to accomplish goals -• The speaker recounts Carson's determination and effort in various situations -• Carson is called to share his profession of faith with the congregation -• A verse from Romans 10.9 is read and shared as a reminder of salvation through confessing Jesus as Lord -• The community promises to journey with Carson as he continues on his spiritual journey -• Confirmation questions for new church members -• Membership vows to Christ and the church -• Welcome and introduction to full communion -• Congregational prayer for new members -• Blessing and laying on of hands for new members -• Invocation to Jesus Christ, praying for His coming -• Prayer of thanks and Amen responses -• Reference to the King of kings and God's sovereignty -• Themes of salvation, forgiveness, and freedom from sin and death -• Description of heaven and the afterlife as a place of glory without pain or sorrow -• Salvation and Jesus Christ -• Invitation to sit down -• Meeting repetition -• Testimony of four young Christians -• Pray for future guidance and success -• Importance of access to God's Word and community under oppression -• Open Doors work in empowering persecuted Christians -• Request for donations and prayer -• Church budget and Calvin Seminary offering -• Congregational prayer for vulnerable people and heat relief -• Prayer requests for individuals (Ismay, Marga, Bob) -• Prayer request for neighbors affected by fire -• The church looks forward to worshipping together in person as restrictions ease -• The pastor announces that they will be having Professions of Faith during the service -• The pastor mentions that it is hot outside and makes a joke about wearing shorts to reflect the temperature -• The pastor introduces the sermon topic, which is a story about Jesus and a Syrophoenician woman in Mark 7:24-30 -• The pastor provides context for the passage, explaining that Jesus leaves Jewish territory and enters Gentile territory in Tyre and Sidon -• The pastor discusses how this passage reveals the concept of grace at the center of Jesus' actions -• The story of a Canaanite woman's interaction with Jesus is explored in Mark 7 -• Jesus challenges Jewish purity laws, teaching that it's what comes out of someone that defiles them, not what they eat -• The woman asks Jesus to cast out a demon from her daughter, and Jesus' response seems harsh or insulting -• However, Jesus uses "pirastic irony", a form of communication that invites dialogue to affirm the woman's faith -• The conversation is meant to test the woman's faith, but also to show it to those around them, including the 12 disciples -• The woman responds cleverly, pointing out that even dogs get crumbs from the table, illustrating God's abundance and inclusiveness -• Jesus' teaching in this story highlights his inclusive message of God's kingdom, which knows no bounds or racial divisions -• God's grace is limitless and can overcome any prejudice or boundary -• The miracle of the Syrophoenician woman's daughter is not just about Jesus healing from a distance, but about God's grace overcoming human limitations -• God's grace precedes faith and is the foundation on which our faith is built -• Grace cannot be coerced or earned, it is a free gift from God -• The abundance of God's grace has no stipulations except that Christ gave his life for humanity -• Recognizing God's faithfulness to us through His grace is more important than our own faithfulness -• We have no claim on Christ's grace, but can expect Him to be gracious in all circumstances -• Praise and worship music -• Reflection on the joy and love of God -• Discussion of being set free from chains and fear -• Reference to Christ's mercy and unending love -• The concept of amazing grace -• A scripture reading from Numbers 6 -• Priestly blessing given by speaker -• Recitation of a prayer or hymn -• Interruptions to announce they will be right back -• Repeated interruptions at regular intervals \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 27 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 27 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index e25f1a858db2588d340a3faf7cc77bb6a45db616..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 27 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1426 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 28.48] He's coming on the clouds, kings and kingdoms will bow down. -[30.00 --> 39.02] And every chain will break, his broken hearts declare his praise. -[39.02 --> 42.96] But who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[44.34 --> 49.56] Our God is the lion, the lion of Judah. -[50.08 --> 55.18] He's roaring with power and fighting our battles. -[55.18 --> 60.14] And every knee will bow before him. -[60.76 --> 66.04] Our God is the lamb, the lamb that was slain. -[66.30 --> 71.46] For the sin of the world, his blood breaks the chains. -[71.92 --> 76.86] And every knee will bow before the lion and the lamb. -[76.86 --> 82.84] Oh, every knee will bow before the lion and the lamb. -[82.84 --> 87.84] Oh, every knee will bow before the lion and the lamb. -[87.84 --> 91.84] Oh, every knee will bow before the lion and the lamb. -[91.84 --> 99.58] To open up the gates, make way before the king of kings. -[99.58 --> 105.66] Our God who calls to save. -[105.66 --> 109.72] He's here to set the captives free. -[110.10 --> 113.88] For who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[113.88 --> 118.88] Our God is the lion and the lamb and the lamb. -[118.88 --> 120.88] Our God is the lion and the lamb. -[120.88 --> 126.04] He's roaring with power and fighting our battles. -[126.04 --> 130.84] And every knee will bow before him. -[130.84 --> 135.84] Our God is the lion and the lamb. -[135.84 --> 136.94] Our God is the lamb, the lamb that was slain. -[136.94 --> 142.38] For the sin of the world, his blood breaks the chains. -[142.84 --> 147.80] And every knee will bow before the lion and the lamb. -[148.06 --> 154.00] Oh, every knee will bow before the lion and the lamb. -[154.00 --> 183.98] Oh, every knee will bow before the lion and the lamb. -[184.00 --> 186.12] let it de بيت Genesis. -[186.12 --> 187.54] But in theannonнееか. -[187.54 --> 190.24] Thank you very much to trust. -[190.24 --> 192.20] Father, my heart will bow before the lion and the lamb gets over the trência. -[193.46 --> 196.16] And every leg we're going to awe of the rib and the lamb. -[196.16 --> 197.70] And every knee will bow for the FSii. -[197.70 --> 200.74] And every body will bow before the rod and the lamb. -[200.80 --> 202.76] And every Alberta with the royal lamb. -[202.84 --> 204.78] And every片 of Greg, we'll bow faze your eyes on the shoulder. -[205.02 --> 206.80] And every knee will bow for the foulet street. -[206.80 --> 208.80] And every dog will bow for the Viajadaanricuctor and the lamb. -[208.80 --> 213.40] And every Cathy will bow for the Lord at the summit of the 7th. -[213.40 --> 218.92] Roaring with power and fighting our battles -[218.92 --> 223.64] Every knee will bow before Him -[223.64 --> 229.66] Our God is the Lamb, the Lamb that was slain -[229.66 --> 235.14] For the sin of the world, His blood breaks the chains -[235.14 --> 240.56] And every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb -[240.56 --> 247.76] Every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb -[247.76 --> 258.54] And every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb -[258.54 --> 268.60] Every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb -[270.56 --> 300.54] I'll see you next time. -[300.56 --> 305.98] I started out this morning in the usual way. -[306.78 --> 313.26] Chasing thoughts inside my head of all I had to do today. -[314.32 --> 320.80] Another time around the circle, trying to make it better than the last. -[321.72 --> 327.06] I opened up the Bible and I read about me. -[327.06 --> 333.94] I said I'd been a prisoner and God's grace has set me free. -[335.08 --> 341.06] And somewhere between the pages, it hit me like a lightning bolt. -[341.06 --> 345.22] I saw a bear from deer in front of me. -[345.44 --> 349.34] And I heard somebody say, let's go. -[349.98 --> 355.22] Saddle up your horse and we've got a trail to blaze. -[356.84 --> 362.34] Through the wild blue yonder, God's amazing grace. -[362.34 --> 368.90] Let's follow our leader into the glorious unknown. -[370.18 --> 374.68] This is life like no other. -[374.68 --> 379.32] This is the great adventure. -[382.32 --> 382.96] Yeah. -[382.96 --> 386.96] Come on. -[386.96 --> 387.96] Get ready. -[387.96 --> 391.18] For the ride of your life. -[391.98 --> 394.76] You're the big long-faced religion. -[395.76 --> 397.68] In a cloud of dust behind. -[398.00 --> 399.04] Leaving the world. -[399.12 --> 401.88] Discover all the new horizons. -[402.48 --> 404.96] Just waiting to be explored. -[405.30 --> 409.96] This is the great adventure. -[409.96 --> 411.26] Thank you would you like to absorber in front of me. -[411.42 --> 414.14] We'll beoya in front of you. -[414.42 --> 416.64] I was on my train in front of you. -[417.28 --> 419.24] There was jobs like no other. -[419.42 --> 420.14] I'm a bridge. -[420.20 --> 423.96] I love your horse like no other. -[424.44 --> 426.78] But they might not believe in Falcon woah. -[426.78 --> 431.08] I'll lead her into the glorious unknown -[431.08 --> 433.14] To the glory of the Lord -[433.14 --> 436.88] This is a life like no other -[436.88 --> 441.60] This is a great adventure -[441.60 --> 445.48] We'll travel home -[445.48 --> 452.98] Good morning and welcome to worship. -[452.98 --> 457.00] We are so excited to gather here together. -[457.12 --> 459.12] This morning we have the chance to celebrate -[459.12 --> 462.80] Profession of Faith later in our service for four people -[462.80 --> 466.70] and we are so glad to see God's goodness -[466.70 --> 469.00] as we come together to Him. -[469.02 --> 471.30] My name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors here. -[471.48 --> 473.44] And before we begin our worship in earnest, -[473.50 --> 475.38] we have a couple announcements we would like to share -[475.38 --> 478.18] with everyone here and on our live stream. -[478.90 --> 481.92] First of all, there's a new ladies group -[481.92 --> 484.04] that's starting up called Walk and Talk. -[484.78 --> 486.74] And that's being put together by a group of women. -[487.34 --> 489.06] Wendy Fulkerts and Linda Molenkamp -[489.06 --> 490.54] are sort of heading the charge in that -[490.54 --> 491.16] and a few others. -[491.78 --> 494.78] And they have their first meeting this Tuesday night, -[495.12 --> 497.66] June 29 at 7.30 p.m. -[497.66 --> 499.62] at Derrick Doubleday Arboretum. -[500.42 --> 502.72] And so they wanted us to stress that -[502.72 --> 503.96] all are welcome -[503.96 --> 506.16] and invite your neighbors. -[506.16 --> 508.40] Come on out to this ladies group. -[508.52 --> 511.10] You're going to walk together around the Arboretum -[511.10 --> 513.40] and discuss issues of life and faith -[513.40 --> 515.28] and experiencing God's faithfulness. -[515.44 --> 518.10] And so gather together with this group of women, -[518.36 --> 520.26] be prayed over, pray over someone, -[520.52 --> 522.84] and just see what the Lord might do with that. -[523.90 --> 527.06] Also, as we are approaching these summer months, -[527.12 --> 529.98] we are looking for children's worship time volunteers -[529.98 --> 531.74] for the summer months. -[531.74 --> 534.50] Nikki hopes to have that schedule -[534.50 --> 536.54] for the summer completed this week. -[537.50 --> 539.16] And so if we don't get volunteers -[539.16 --> 540.38] for a particular Sunday, -[540.58 --> 542.58] there will be no children's worship time -[542.58 --> 543.48] on that Sunday. -[544.06 --> 546.40] And so as someone whose family -[546.40 --> 548.40] is really blessed by children's worship time, -[548.78 --> 549.26] please volunteer. -[550.38 --> 551.28] We would really love it -[551.28 --> 553.16] if we could provide that every Sunday. -[554.44 --> 557.08] Also, a youth group is meeting tonight, -[557.20 --> 559.28] how they will meet at Williams Park. -[559.48 --> 560.90] And you have an email to that effect, -[560.90 --> 561.78] but if you have any questions, -[561.90 --> 562.64] grab Pastor Kevin -[562.64 --> 564.74] and he will answer those for you. -[564.86 --> 566.30] And then finally, -[567.30 --> 569.44] as many of you are no doubt aware, -[569.98 --> 570.94] there will be announcements -[570.94 --> 573.32] from the provincial government this week -[573.32 --> 575.42] that will likely have an impact -[575.42 --> 577.10] on how we are able to gather -[577.10 --> 578.44] and the sorts of things -[578.44 --> 580.48] that we will be able to do -[580.48 --> 581.98] and the numbers that we can gather in -[581.98 --> 583.04] and all of those things. -[583.18 --> 584.94] And so we are waiting with bated breath -[584.94 --> 586.22] for what that might mean. -[586.54 --> 587.86] We ask for your patience -[587.86 --> 589.16] as we wait for that -[589.16 --> 590.54] and then our COVID response team -[590.54 --> 591.18] and our staff -[591.18 --> 592.24] and everybody come together -[592.24 --> 594.08] to provide what is best -[594.08 --> 595.20] and safe and good -[595.20 --> 596.84] for all of us here. -[596.98 --> 597.86] And so look for an announcement -[597.86 --> 599.16] from us this week -[599.16 --> 600.82] as we hear from them. -[601.96 --> 602.94] Connected to that, -[603.16 --> 604.74] as we are moving back -[604.74 --> 606.42] into a more, -[606.54 --> 607.74] I'll call it ordinary, -[608.14 --> 609.90] experience of worship together, -[610.08 --> 611.10] that means we're going to need -[611.10 --> 612.76] things like nursery volunteers, -[613.32 --> 615.10] not only Children's Worship Time volunteers. -[615.10 --> 615.22] volunteers. -[615.86 --> 617.84] And so if you are looking -[617.84 --> 620.08] to snuggle with a baby -[620.08 --> 621.28] or because you haven't done that -[621.28 --> 622.10] for 18 months, -[622.30 --> 623.60] this is a great opportunity -[623.60 --> 625.98] to do that with someone else's kid -[625.98 --> 627.36] in a safe and legal way. -[629.96 --> 630.70] Yeah, see? -[631.10 --> 632.72] We're going to pull whatever we need to -[632.72 --> 633.52] in order to get people -[633.52 --> 634.14] into the nursery -[634.14 --> 635.70] so that families can be blessed by that. -[637.30 --> 638.08] If that's something -[638.08 --> 639.10] you might be interested in, -[639.34 --> 640.44] you can reach out to me -[640.44 --> 641.24] or Pastor Kevin -[641.24 --> 643.44] and we can figure out -[643.44 --> 644.26] how to connect -[644.26 --> 645.68] all of that together. -[646.38 --> 647.10] We're going to worship -[647.10 --> 647.80] our God this morning -[647.80 --> 648.74] and so I'm going to invite you -[648.74 --> 649.46] as you are able -[649.46 --> 650.06] and where you are -[650.06 --> 650.80] to stand -[650.80 --> 651.90] that you might receive -[651.90 --> 653.04] the greeting of our God. -[657.50 --> 659.34] God calls us to worship Him -[659.34 --> 660.52] and He welcomes us -[660.52 --> 662.72] into His presence. -[662.92 --> 663.82] Receive the greeting -[663.82 --> 665.06] of our God. -[666.16 --> 666.60] Grace, -[667.72 --> 668.16] mercy, -[668.72 --> 669.72] and peace to you -[669.72 --> 671.00] from God our Father, -[671.08 --> 672.36] from the Lord Jesus Christ, -[672.94 --> 673.52] through the presence -[673.52 --> 674.12] and power -[674.12 --> 675.62] of the Holy Spirit. -[676.34 --> 676.78] Amen. -[677.60 --> 678.42] Let's worship God. -[683.06 --> 684.14] Our call to worship -[684.14 --> 684.60] this morning -[684.60 --> 686.38] comes from Exodus 15. -[687.88 --> 689.50] I will sing to the Lord -[689.50 --> 691.10] for He is highly exalted. -[691.94 --> 693.44] The Lord is my strength -[693.44 --> 694.52] and my defense. -[695.44 --> 696.94] He has become my salvation. -[697.90 --> 698.80] He is my God -[698.80 --> 700.38] and I will praise Him. -[701.02 --> 701.98] My Father is God -[701.98 --> 703.68] and I will exalt Him. -[704.58 --> 705.52] Who among the gods -[705.52 --> 706.36] is like you, Lord? -[707.16 --> 708.08] Who is like you, -[708.62 --> 709.58] majestic in holiness, -[710.38 --> 711.24] awesome in glory, -[711.94 --> 712.70] working in wonders? -[712.70 --> 726.68] My hope is built on nothing less. -[726.68 --> 740.78] My hope is built on nothing less. -[740.78 --> 746.26] In Jesus' blood and righteousness -[746.26 --> 748.26] I dare not trust in Jesus' name. -[748.26 --> 754.26] I dare not trust the speedest frame, -[754.26 --> 760.64] but only trust in Jesus' name. -[760.64 --> 762.64] I dare not trust in Jesus' name. -[762.64 --> 767.64] My hope is built on nothing less. -[767.64 --> 772.60] My hope is built on nothing less. -[772.60 --> 777.36] In Jesus' blood and righteousness. -[777.36 --> 783.04] My hope is built on nothing less. -[783.04 --> 797.04] is -[801.76 --> 811.04] weak made strong in the savior's love through the storm -[811.04 --> 825.04] he is -[825.04 --> 839.04] darkness seems to hide his face i rest on his unchanging grace -[839.04 --> 843.04] and stormy day -[843.04 --> 849.04] my anger holds within the veil -[849.04 --> 857.04] my anger holds within the veil -[857.04 --> 861.04] christ alone -[861.04 --> 863.04] cornerstone -[863.04 --> 867.04] weak made strong -[867.04 --> 871.04] in the savior's love -[871.04 --> 873.04] through the storm -[873.04 --> 875.04] he is -[875.04 --> 877.04] lord -[877.04 --> 879.04] lord of all -[879.04 --> 887.04] when he shall come -[887.04 --> 889.04] with trumpets -[889.04 --> 891.04] sound -[891.04 --> 895.04] oh may i then -[895.04 --> 899.04] in him be found -[899.04 --> 905.04] dressed in his righteousness alone -[905.04 --> 907.04] faultless -[907.04 --> 909.04] stand before -[909.04 --> 911.04] the throne -[911.04 --> 913.04] the -[913.04 --> 915.04] the -[915.04 --> 917.04] the -[917.04 --> 919.04] the -[919.04 --> 921.04] the -[921.04 --> 923.04] the -[923.04 --> 925.04] the -[925.04 --> 927.04] the -[927.04 --> 933.04] the -[933.04 --> 935.04] the -[935.04 --> 937.04] the -[937.04 --> 939.04] the -[939.04 --> 941.04] the -[941.04 --> 943.04] the -[943.04 --> 945.04] the -[945.04 --> 950.16] Color song, weak and strong -[950.16 --> 956.82] His Savior's love through the storm -[956.82 --> 964.44] He is Lord, Lord of all -[964.44 --> 973.26] Christ the Lord, color song -[973.26 --> 976.30] He plays strong -[976.30 --> 982.74] His Savior's love through the storm -[982.74 --> 989.58] He is Lord, Lord of all -[1003.26 --> 1015.60] Please join me in the prayer of confession and assurance. -[1015.60 --> 1025.08] O Holy God, we call to you and name you as eternal, ever-present, full of grace and boundless in love. -[1025.88 --> 1031.22] Yet there are times, O God, when we fail to recognize you in the dailiness of our lives. -[1031.22 --> 1036.60] Sometimes shame clenches tightly around our hearts and we try to hide from you. -[1037.28 --> 1039.00] Sometimes fear makes us small. -[1039.52 --> 1041.76] Sometimes doubt invades our hopefulness. -[1042.70 --> 1050.00] Holy God, from sunrise to sunset, remind us again of your holy presence hovering near us and in us. -[1050.60 --> 1052.04] Forgive us of our sins. -[1052.68 --> 1054.60] Free us from shame and self-doubt. -[1054.60 --> 1057.76] Help us to honor you better in all we do. -[1058.34 --> 1062.42] And help us to live honestly and forever thankful of your grace. -[1063.00 --> 1065.42] In the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior. -[1066.34 --> 1066.64] Amen. -[1066.64 --> 1066.76] Amen. -[1066.76 --> 1070.20] Amen. -[1070.20 --> 1071.16] Amen. -[1071.16 --> 1072.28] Amen. -[1072.32 --> 1072.74] Amen. -[1073.30 --> 1074.40] Amen. -[1074.76 --> 1075.40] Amen. -[1075.40 --> 1076.38] Amen. -[1082.98 --> 1087.54] Amen. -[1089.98 --> 1091.96] Amen. -[1092.20 --> 1092.70] Amen. -[1092.70 --> 1092.76] Amen. -[1094.46 --> 1095.46] Amen. -[1095.46 --> 1096.36] Amen. -[1096.36 --> 1096.62] Amen. -[1096.62 --> 1099.66] I believe in Jesus. -[1102.30 --> 1106.18] I believe He is the Son of God. -[1108.56 --> 1113.26] I believe He died and rose again. -[1114.86 --> 1118.72] I believe He prayed for us all. -[1120.78 --> 1125.72] I believe He is here for us. -[1126.62 --> 1156.60] I believe He is here for us. -[1156.62 --> 1162.76] I believe He died and rose again. -[1164.32 --> 1168.62] I believe He prayed for us all. -[1168.62 --> 1198.62] -[1198.62 --> 1204.76] I believe He died and rose again. -[1204.76 --> 1210.90] I believe He died and rose again. -[1210.90 --> 1217.04] I believe He died and rose again. -[1217.04 --> 1223.18] I believe He died and rose again. -[1223.18 --> 1229.32] I believe He died and rose again. -[1229.32 --> 1235.46] I believe He died and rose again. -[1235.46 --> 1241.60] I believe He died and rose again. -[1241.60 --> 1243.60] I believe He died and rose again. -[1243.60 --> 1247.74] I believe He died and rose again. -[1247.74 --> 1253.88] I believe He died and rose again. -[1253.88 --> 1255.88] I believe He died and rose again. -[1255.88 --> 1262.02] I believe He died and rose again. -[1262.02 --> 1264.02] I believe He died and rose again. -[1264.02 --> 1270.16] I believe He died and rose again. -[1270.16 --> 1272.16] I believe He died and rose again. -[1272.16 --> 1274.16] I believe He died and rose again. -[1274.16 --> 1280.30] I believe He died and rose again. -[1280.30 --> 1282.44] I believe He died and rose again. -[1282.44 --> 1284.44] I believe He died and rose again. -[1284.44 --> 1286.44] I believe He died and rose again. -[1286.44 --> 1287.84] Thank you, the Verkikes, for doing that. -[1287.90 --> 1291.96] I have a video today, so I'm really hoping that the audio works on that. -[1293.00 --> 1295.76] Today, the story is about a ship. -[1295.86 --> 1297.36] It's a story about Paul and the Bible. -[1298.36 --> 1301.66] Instead of taking all you kids on a boat ride on the Fraser River, -[1301.76 --> 1303.46] we decide to take the boat ride to you. -[1304.82 --> 1308.36] Before I do that, I'm just going to pray because the video just ends -[1308.36 --> 1310.56] and that will be the end of the children's worship. -[1310.80 --> 1314.12] I'll pray with the kids right now and we'll start the video. -[1314.12 --> 1316.52] Heavenly Father, thank you so much for this day. -[1317.48 --> 1319.84] Thank you for the children in our community and our church -[1319.84 --> 1322.42] and thank you for a blessing they are to all of us. -[1323.04 --> 1326.16] Pray that they have a good summer, enjoying your creation, -[1326.98 --> 1329.26] being healthy, hanging out with family and friends -[1329.26 --> 1333.50] and just relaxing and doing what we're supposed to do in the summer. -[1334.80 --> 1337.38] Please bless this service and our time together. -[1337.50 --> 1338.46] For Jesus' sake, amen. -[1340.06 --> 1340.80] All right, kids. -[1341.00 --> 1342.92] Here we are doing children's worship time again. -[1343.00 --> 1343.76] Good to see you all. -[1344.40 --> 1348.24] Today's story is about Paul in the Bible and this story is called Shipwreck. -[1348.74 --> 1350.86] So today we're going to go for a little ride on a ship -[1350.86 --> 1354.14] out by Fraser Valley here on the river -[1354.14 --> 1358.52] and I'll give you some more information here in a second. -[1358.52 --> 1359.72] This ship here we're going to go on. -[1359.84 --> 1365.50] It's a nice ship and we're going to take this thing out by Bray Island here -[1365.50 --> 1367.50] and we're going to go for a little tour around Bray Island. -[1367.64 --> 1368.22] Hope you enjoyed the trip. -[1368.22 --> 1368.46] All right, kids. -[1368.54 --> 1370.02] We're here on the water right now -[1370.02 --> 1373.68] and we just got the boat in the water and we're going for a little cruise. -[1373.76 --> 1377.76] But I want to introduce you to my chauffeur here right now. -[1377.76 --> 1381.68] And he's got a few rules that he needs us to abide by if we're going on this tour. -[1381.68 --> 1384.10] Kids, this is my chauffeur for the evening here. -[1384.22 --> 1386.08] This is Jake. -[1386.68 --> 1387.68] It's actually not Jake. -[1387.78 --> 1388.84] It's Captain Jake. -[1388.84 --> 1391.54] Okay, so we got to refer to him as Captain. -[1391.68 --> 1394.70] So we're going to be calling him I Captain in this video here. -[1394.94 --> 1397.48] He's got a couple other rules on this boat. -[1397.56 --> 1398.72] What are some of the other rules there? -[1398.86 --> 1399.18] Captain. -[1399.86 --> 1403.48] Well, rule number one is there's no peeing off the boat. -[1404.12 --> 1405.54] No peeing off the side of the boat. -[1405.64 --> 1408.12] Okay, well, that's a tough rule. -[1408.20 --> 1409.54] So what do we got to do if we got to go pee? -[1409.58 --> 1410.88] Do we just got to jump in the water? -[1410.96 --> 1412.32] Yeah, we got to jump in the water. -[1412.48 --> 1413.76] We got to go straight to shore. -[1414.08 --> 1414.32] Okay. -[1414.88 --> 1415.66] Any other rules? -[1415.78 --> 1416.66] Any other rules? -[1416.66 --> 1426.40] Yeah, the rules are since I am the ultimate fisherman, if we do catch a fish, the fish is always bigger by twice the size of what we actually catch. -[1426.66 --> 1427.78] Oh, sounds like a good rule. -[1427.88 --> 1430.48] Sounds like a rule most fishermen follow. -[1431.38 --> 1431.84] All right. -[1432.30 --> 1434.54] Other than that, be happy. -[1434.82 --> 1435.28] Here we go. -[1435.30 --> 1436.84] Here we are cruising up the river. -[1437.52 --> 1439.06] Beside us is a jet boat. -[1439.76 --> 1440.94] Somebody's going tubing. -[1442.12 --> 1443.32] Having a good time. -[1444.82 --> 1445.48] Yee-haw. -[1445.48 --> 1446.74] All right, Captain. -[1447.06 --> 1450.32] I'm not very familiar with these waters, but where are we right now? -[1451.00 --> 1452.24] Well, we are right now. -[1452.36 --> 1453.70] We are in the Bedford Channel. -[1453.92 --> 1456.24] We have Bray Island to the left of us. -[1456.88 --> 1461.06] And we have the almighty Fraser River directly in front of us. -[1461.92 --> 1462.28] All right. -[1462.32 --> 1462.92] Where are we heading? -[1463.64 --> 1466.40] We are going to go for a loop around Bray Island. -[1466.58 --> 1467.08] All right. -[1467.14 --> 1467.58] Here we go. -[1467.64 --> 1469.48] Going up the river, you see some pretty interesting things. -[1469.48 --> 1475.70] Here on the side of the river just past the airport, there's some, how it looks like a massive houseboat. -[1475.82 --> 1476.88] Kind of cool looking thing. -[1478.00 --> 1481.48] Anyway, we'll cruise on by here and move on to the next thing. -[1481.54 --> 1482.18] All right, Captain. -[1482.18 --> 1483.42] I got a question for you. -[1483.42 --> 1488.94] Why is it that all these fishing boats are sitting here idle right now, not out in the waters catching fish? -[1489.88 --> 1495.64] Well, I kind of think that the fishery is closed right now because there's not a lot of salmon. -[1496.36 --> 1500.18] So I think we're trying to protect our salmon by not fishing right now. -[1500.42 --> 1501.98] Sounds like a good idea, eh, fisherman? -[1501.98 --> 1503.10] I think so. -[1503.16 --> 1504.08] I think it's a great idea. -[1504.08 --> 1510.20] Well, kids, as we were making our way up the river, we actually found a ship that looks like it's been a little wrecked. -[1510.38 --> 1514.16] Looks like it's sinking here on the shore of the Fraser River. -[1514.24 --> 1521.12] Not sure what the story is here, but I wonder if the ship Paul was on ended up looking like that after a while, -[1521.20 --> 1522.98] after it sunk to the bottom of the sea. -[1523.64 --> 1526.66] Kids, here's another kind of cool thing you see when you're on the river. -[1526.74 --> 1528.04] Look at this old boat here. -[1528.04 --> 1532.22] Looks like it's been left behind and nobody wants it. -[1532.64 --> 1533.40] Kids, here we are. -[1533.56 --> 1537.70] Here's a lumber mill we found on the side of the river here. -[1537.78 --> 1541.14] And there's a lot of lumber mills often found on the side of a river. -[1541.24 --> 1546.18] We're going to ask our captain here why are there lumber mills on the side of the river often? -[1547.16 --> 1551.74] Well, kids, I think the reason we have lumber mills on the side of the river is because we have log booms -[1552.10 --> 1556.52] that float down the river to get the logs to the mill. -[1556.52 --> 1559.22] So it's nice and easy and probably cheap. -[1559.76 --> 1561.28] All right, thanks for that tidbit. -[1561.60 --> 1562.54] So here we are. -[1562.68 --> 1568.80] We're just west of the Albion Ferry dock. -[1568.92 --> 1571.08] And we found this kind of boat that's sitting in the water. -[1571.16 --> 1574.88] It looks like it would make a great restaurant cruise boat down the river. -[1575.04 --> 1575.82] But it's sitting here. -[1575.88 --> 1578.24] It looks like it's rotting away here on the side of the river. -[1578.62 --> 1581.18] I was wondering if you'd give me a little tour of your boat here. -[1581.24 --> 1582.52] What do we got going on here? -[1582.62 --> 1584.64] This is a nice looking ship we got here. -[1584.64 --> 1586.04] Tell me a little bit about your ship. -[1586.38 --> 1588.82] Well, this ship is a 2011. -[1589.28 --> 1591.80] It is a 12-foot Lund boat. -[1592.46 --> 1594.80] She is powered by this bad boy Merc. -[1594.86 --> 1598.26] It's a 15-horsepower Mercury motor. -[1599.26 --> 1600.40] How fast does she go? -[1600.46 --> 1601.42] Like 0 to 60? -[1601.78 --> 1602.26] Oh, yeah. -[1602.40 --> 1606.42] We can do 0 to 60 in about, I don't think we can make 60, but close. -[1606.58 --> 1607.28] Four minutes. -[1607.48 --> 1608.28] Four minutes. -[1608.62 --> 1611.48] Wow, this is quite the high-performance boat we're in here right now. -[1611.48 --> 1614.88] Do you think anybody could tube or ski behind this bad boy? -[1615.24 --> 1616.96] Yeah, I think the kids could. -[1617.20 --> 1618.02] They're pretty little. -[1618.14 --> 1618.50] All right. -[1618.56 --> 1620.14] We'll line them up for one of these Sundays. -[1620.28 --> 1623.20] We'll take them for a rip behind this machine. -[1623.40 --> 1623.80] All right. -[1624.22 --> 1624.56] Thanks. -[1624.78 --> 1625.40] Thanks, Captain. -[1625.50 --> 1625.86] Hey, kids. -[1625.90 --> 1628.18] We made another little stop here on the side of the river. -[1628.26 --> 1631.80] Here's one of these barges full of wood chips. -[1631.92 --> 1633.16] Not sure what they're going to use them for. -[1633.16 --> 1637.58] Maybe they're to make paper or toilet paper or some other kind of wood product. -[1637.78 --> 1641.88] But this is probably the leftovers of them making lumber for houses and stuff. -[1641.88 --> 1646.28] We are just cruising at Mach speed across the river here. -[1647.60 --> 1651.42] Checking out some of the houses on the side of the river. -[1652.14 --> 1654.94] Making our way back to the boat launch. -[1655.08 --> 1657.66] We're heading up the Bedford Channel here. -[1657.66 --> 1662.26] On my left here is probably a lot of you have been on a hike just on Bray Island here. -[1662.36 --> 1663.88] It's up in behind those trees there. -[1664.68 --> 1666.76] We're making our way back up to Fort Langley. -[1667.02 --> 1667.26] All right. -[1667.30 --> 1667.86] Here we are. -[1668.02 --> 1673.04] Kids, we're just about ready to go under the bridge here by Bray Island. -[1674.22 --> 1675.42] It's kind of a cool bridge. -[1675.56 --> 1676.74] In the summer, there's people. -[1676.96 --> 1680.60] I don't know who they would be, but I hear there's people that like to jump off this bridge -[1680.60 --> 1683.04] in the summer and get a nice cool dip. -[1683.04 --> 1688.78] I don't recommend it, but I hear from people that it's quite fun, though. -[1689.98 --> 1690.36] Anyway. -[1692.18 --> 1693.20] All right, Captain. -[1693.36 --> 1695.56] Thanks for taking me on that cruise down the river. -[1695.64 --> 1696.08] Just wondering. -[1696.18 --> 1699.66] I was kind of auditioning for a part as your first mate. -[1700.04 --> 1700.76] How did I do? -[1701.70 --> 1703.60] Well, I hate to break it. -[1703.86 --> 1708.04] You did break one of the rules, and I think that rule was... -[1709.04 --> 1709.80] I wonder. -[1709.90 --> 1711.98] The river's just a little higher tonight. -[1713.04 --> 1714.52] Other than that, you did okay. -[1715.98 --> 1716.72] Thanks, Captain. -[1717.38 --> 1718.48] Until next time. -[1718.62 --> 1719.18] Thank you. -[1720.12 --> 1720.88] All right, kids. -[1721.04 --> 1724.52] I hope you enjoyed that boat ride we went on. -[1724.84 --> 1728.24] And the idea with that is to understand what it's like to be on a ship. -[1728.34 --> 1732.06] So we thought we'd take you for a little tour on the Fraser River. -[1732.50 --> 1733.60] Now it's time for the story. -[1733.68 --> 1736.24] We're going to talk to you a bit about the story about Paul and the shipwreck. -[1736.24 --> 1739.12] So here's the story. -[1739.68 --> 1742.92] So Paul was arrested for telling so many people about Jesus. -[1743.18 --> 1746.54] Soon he was put on a ship with other prisoners. -[1746.94 --> 1750.08] He was headed for Rome, where he would be... -[1750.08 --> 1755.84] Where he'd have to stand before a judge in a court, and they were going to decide whether or not the stuff he was preaching was good or not. -[1755.84 --> 1762.08] So he had a good chance of ending up going to jail for saying words that they weren't happy about. -[1762.08 --> 1766.94] So they got on the ship, and Paul says to the crew, it's a bad time to sail. -[1767.10 --> 1769.32] They were winter winds, so the winds were howling. -[1769.80 --> 1774.02] And he said, we might have trouble, but nobody wanted to listen to Paul because he was just a prisoner. -[1774.14 --> 1776.04] So who would listen to a prisoner on a ship? -[1776.12 --> 1778.20] So they decided to set sail. -[1779.10 --> 1780.02] And Paul was right. -[1780.08 --> 1781.38] A vicious storm came. -[1781.94 --> 1784.48] Waves like mountains crashed into the ship. -[1785.00 --> 1787.12] And the sailors fought hard to keep it afloat. -[1787.92 --> 1788.80] Help, they cried. -[1788.80 --> 1791.98] They were in a lot of trouble, and they were really worried and scared for their lives. -[1792.08 --> 1797.68] Well, the sailors were up above on the top deck of the boat, sailing a ship. -[1797.76 --> 1800.00] All the prisoners were down below, and it was really... -[1800.00 --> 1802.42] Everything was crashing around them in the bottom of the boat. -[1803.14 --> 1807.92] So Paul decided to pray, and he prayed, God, please help us. -[1808.86 --> 1813.00] Then an angel appeared to them with a message, and Paul turned to the crew. -[1813.56 --> 1817.76] He went up to the top of the boat and said to the crew, listen, he shouted over the thunder and the wind. -[1818.42 --> 1820.86] God promised me that I'll get to Rome. -[1822.08 --> 1825.32] I'm unscathed, and anyone traveling with me will be safe. -[1825.44 --> 1826.62] Have faith and believe. -[1826.62 --> 1837.42] Paul was sure that God would save them, even when the ship drifted near island and crack ran into the ground and into a bunch of rocks. -[1837.82 --> 1840.08] And the boat broke into lots of pieces. -[1840.86 --> 1842.08] Swim, someone shouted. -[1842.62 --> 1847.58] And the crew and the prisoners all jumped overboard into the water and swam safely to shore. -[1847.58 --> 1850.50] God still wasn't done with Paul. -[1850.62 --> 1852.14] He had more work to do for him. -[1852.24 --> 1857.66] So that's why he kept him alive through this crazy shipwreck that happened on the sea. -[1858.40 --> 1860.34] So God was being faithful to Paul. -[1860.46 --> 1862.04] He had a lot of work for Paul to do. -[1862.04 --> 1875.40] And this little challenge in the way of being on the ship and in these crazy waters was not going to prevent God from allowing Paul to do his work of spreading the gospel to him, as many people that would listen to him at that time. -[1875.72 --> 1879.36] So the idea of the story is God is faithful, and God will take care of you. -[1879.36 --> 1882.48] And God has a plan for you. -[1883.06 --> 1887.86] So I hope you enjoyed today's story and the activities that we had planned on this video. -[1888.36 --> 1889.64] I hope you have a great Sunday. -[1890.02 --> 1895.40] I still can't wait to see you all and have you sitting in front of me so I can share more stories with you. -[1895.40 --> 1898.54] But I hope that you enjoyed today's story. -[1899.06 --> 1899.90] Have a great Sunday. -[1909.36 --> 1912.88] All right. -[1912.96 --> 1923.12] It is my pleasure to start off what is going to take part in a moment, the professions of faith of four of our lovely young people in this church. -[1924.72 --> 1928.82] Last week, we saw two people do this, Ethan and Kira. -[1929.02 --> 1930.96] And now we've got four more doing this today. -[1931.08 --> 1935.34] And something I didn't announce last week is these people have been waiting for a little while to do this. -[1935.34 --> 1939.86] So it was well over a year ago that they attended pastor's class with myself. -[1940.02 --> 1943.68] And that wrapped up at about March the 8th. -[1943.70 --> 1946.24] And they were ready to do pastor's class right after that. -[1946.30 --> 1947.84] And then four days later, everything shut down. -[1947.98 --> 1950.84] So we have been waiting in the wings to be able to do these. -[1951.50 --> 1953.14] Restrictions have come and gone a little bit. -[1953.34 --> 1961.74] But it is just a pleasure to have both Ben and Haley Walsher here to do their profession of faith, as well as McKelty and Carson Grimm, too. -[1961.74 --> 1968.64] So the way it is going to work is we are going to have all four of them individually come up, as well as their spiritual mentor to share a little testimony. -[1969.38 --> 1974.90] And then afterwards, Pastor Chris will come forward and lead us through the questions and the answers. -[1975.20 --> 1978.24] So Ben Walsher, I believe, pulled the short straw. -[1978.46 --> 1979.64] And he is going to come up first. -[1979.76 --> 1981.10] So Ben, come on up here as well. -[1981.32 --> 1982.60] And then Mike Prince as well. -[1982.66 --> 1984.40] You can come forward at this moment, too. -[1984.74 --> 1987.04] He is Ben's spiritual mentor. -[1987.04 --> 1991.42] So Ben, you get the microphone and you get to share why you are here today. -[1991.74 --> 1993.50] You can pull your mask right. -[1994.06 --> 1996.08] Well, always the short straw for me. -[1996.18 --> 1996.86] That's all right, though. -[1998.22 --> 1999.76] If you don't know me, my name is Ben. -[1999.92 --> 2002.04] I'm the son of Jake and Annette Walsher over there. -[2002.50 --> 2011.56] And I thought today that if I had one thing I could share, it would be God's faithfulness, both to this church, to my family, and to myself, which is why I can stand here today. -[2011.56 --> 2012.00] Thank you. -[2012.00 --> 2012.06] Thank you. -[2012.06 --> 2012.56] Thank you. -[2012.56 --> 2022.94] So about 21 years ago, around this time, I was just a little baby somewhere up here enjoying some nice sermons. -[2023.78 --> 2027.00] And although I can remember it, I know that from that point on, I was being shaped. -[2028.00 --> 2033.76] I had the privilege of being able to go to Sunday school, do cadets, youth group, Mexico missions. -[2034.44 --> 2038.36] I got to listen to Pastor Bill, Pastor Dan, Pastor Chris now. -[2039.60 --> 2043.10] And through all this time, I just want to say I'm very thankful for this place, this church. -[2043.42 --> 2047.58] I know God's been using this place and the people here, too, as well. -[2047.58 --> 2049.74] And that's been really impactful on my life. -[2049.82 --> 2057.78] And what I've seen, the kind of journey of Emmanuel, is something that I take with me everywhere I go, whether it's in here, in B.C., or in Ontario. -[2059.10 --> 2062.84] To my family, I'd also like to say thank you for raising me. -[2063.92 --> 2068.28] Being able to go to Christian schooling has been quite the privilege, quite the honor. -[2069.16 --> 2072.60] And I couldn't thank you guys enough for that. -[2077.58 --> 2080.56] Yeah, it's really awesome, so thank you. -[2082.18 --> 2088.80] To the rest of my family, to my Oma as well, and my Opa is not here today, thank you for being there. -[2090.80 --> 2091.86] You guys are amazing. -[2092.52 --> 2094.90] And I couldn't be here without you guys. -[2096.54 --> 2099.66] I'm privileged to come from a family of a very long line of believers. -[2100.58 --> 2106.34] And it's just an amazing thing to see how God has blessed our family over the last few generations. -[2106.34 --> 2112.94] And so being able to kind of see how God has walked with our family for that long is an amazing thing. -[2113.02 --> 2119.56] And the reason why I get to live this life and choose to be here, because of God's faithfulness to our family. -[2121.12 --> 2123.08] So that's what I have to say. -[2123.22 --> 2123.60] Thank you. -[2128.80 --> 2129.42] Thanks, Ben. -[2129.50 --> 2132.44] It takes a lot of courage to get up and share from the heart like that. -[2132.44 --> 2136.22] Kev gave me a fancy little portfolio for my little sharesies. -[2136.84 --> 2141.04] It's a privilege to be able to encourage and share a few words on Ben's behalf. -[2141.60 --> 2145.38] I'm Meg Prince, and I have the privilege of being one of Ben's buddies. -[2146.00 --> 2153.40] I was also his youth leader, along with Alvin Loss, another young adult in our church. -[2153.40 --> 2159.78] And for five years, I was their small group leader with seven guys together from grade 8 to 12. -[2160.62 --> 2165.22] It was during that time that I got to know Ben especially well and watch all the guys grow. -[2165.98 --> 2169.38] And Ben, I've been praying for you and the other guys in our small group for years. -[2170.86 --> 2175.30] And it's moments like these, I speak, I think, on behalf of many youth leaders in this church, -[2176.00 --> 2177.80] that we as youth leaders live for. -[2177.96 --> 2180.40] These moments where you stand up for what's worth it. -[2180.40 --> 2185.64] Yeah, sure, we love the taco dinners, the giant Dutch blitz, the games nights, the youth camps, -[2185.72 --> 2188.10] the cheering for hockey games, all that stuff. -[2188.34 --> 2189.44] But don't let it fool you. -[2189.92 --> 2194.88] The real treat is seeing young men and women explore their relationship with God, -[2195.26 --> 2199.74] make a decision for Christ, and follow the call of Romans 10 to profess it. -[2201.16 --> 2204.78] Ben, I've got to warn you, this might be as easy as that gets. -[2205.22 --> 2206.30] And I'm sure you know that. -[2206.30 --> 2211.42] Doing this in this formal way in front of a church family is a pretty easy audience. -[2211.94 --> 2216.12] It takes a lot, especially in today's culture, to take a stand for Christ. -[2217.12 --> 2220.64] There's going to be many, many more moments ahead of you in your dorm, at a pub, -[2220.94 --> 2223.38] in a convo with a friend, at a work site, in your extended family, -[2223.70 --> 2228.30] where you will need to stand by your face and in any manner of ways profess Christ. -[2228.30 --> 2232.26] In fact, I hope you do have those moments. -[2232.40 --> 2236.06] I hope you don't live in a comfort zone, and Christ probably won't let you. -[2236.86 --> 2239.00] And God won't let you down in those moments. -[2239.08 --> 2243.12] You know this, even by how you just mentioned the theme of faithfulness in your own life. -[2244.04 --> 2249.42] Ben, the Holy Spirit is faithfully doing a good work in you and through you. -[2250.02 --> 2253.06] And you will be able to testify to his goodness again and again. -[2253.06 --> 2256.46] And where have I seen this in and through you? -[2257.16 --> 2259.32] Well, just to mention a few highlights over the years. -[2260.14 --> 2262.04] You were a cornerstone to our small group. -[2262.50 --> 2265.32] You came to everything, and while you were always up for a good laugh, -[2265.40 --> 2268.80] you helped keep Bible studies on task with your curious questions and comments. -[2269.50 --> 2270.38] Don't let that die. -[2270.96 --> 2272.96] If it was just a hangout with the boys, -[2273.78 --> 2276.50] you were that thoughtful and inclusive friend where everyone matters. -[2277.00 --> 2280.66] And you've always been such a relaxed and safe place for those around you. -[2280.66 --> 2283.88] On trips to Tijuana or making enchiladas in my kitchen, -[2284.86 --> 2287.56] you happily stepped up and quietly rallied those around you. -[2288.32 --> 2291.84] You care about your beliefs, and you have a way with people. -[2292.74 --> 2296.26] All that and more are some of the many ways God works through you. -[2297.32 --> 2301.88] And while God used all those Bible studies and youth group staff and family, -[2303.24 --> 2305.16] God's done the same using you. -[2305.74 --> 2307.58] He used you to shape others too. -[2307.58 --> 2311.66] These people around you were affected. -[2312.64 --> 2313.98] I was shaped in there too. -[2315.44 --> 2317.78] I'm glad God nudged you in those ways. -[2318.18 --> 2319.36] So thank you for responding. -[2321.12 --> 2322.92] And don't forget, it's a process, right? -[2323.30 --> 2326.58] Today is a highlight in that big process. -[2327.58 --> 2330.56] Cling to the fact that Christ claimed you, -[2330.74 --> 2334.34] and the Holy Spirit will be at you for your entire life. -[2334.34 --> 2338.08] He's with you in those moments where you may need to profess Christ again, -[2338.40 --> 2342.12] and will be using those moments to shape you and others for his glory. -[2342.78 --> 2345.74] It's a privilege to have you as a friend and a brother in Christ. -[2345.74 --> 2358.16] I am now going to invite Haley Walsher to come forward as well, -[2358.24 --> 2361.62] as well as her spiritual mentor, her mom, Annette Walsher. -[2361.72 --> 2363.48] So please come to the front here. -[2366.48 --> 2368.48] Okay. -[2368.48 --> 2370.48] Okay. -[2374.48 --> 2374.92] Okay. -[2375.74 --> 2381.92] So I didn't know Ben would do that well, -[2381.98 --> 2383.52] or I definitely would have gone first. -[2386.94 --> 2388.98] So be patient with me. -[2389.78 --> 2394.12] When I was thinking about what to say to you all during this, -[2394.50 --> 2396.46] I kept thinking of the phrase, -[2396.46 --> 2398.88] it takes a village to raise a child, -[2399.64 --> 2402.62] which knowing me and my brothers, it definitely did. -[2402.70 --> 2403.38] Sorry, mom. -[2403.38 --> 2410.26] My village has been this church, LCS, my friends, and my family, my teachers. -[2410.88 --> 2414.50] And I have been so blessed my whole life by so many caring hearts, -[2414.76 --> 2416.58] all that have led me here. -[2416.58 --> 2424.16] For example, my youth pastors and leaders that have guided me to Alberta for YC and Mexico for mission trips. -[2424.76 --> 2427.16] I've had some pretty interesting Bible teachers. -[2427.40 --> 2428.00] Thank you, Mr. -[2428.00 --> 2428.60] Wergeland. -[2429.26 --> 2431.04] And of course, all of you. -[2431.62 --> 2439.06] I have built a faith in Christ that I can rely on and receive strength from as I go from here to wherever I go in the future. -[2439.06 --> 2445.12] So to my village, I am more than grateful for all you've done and how you've helped me grow in Christ. -[2454.86 --> 2457.94] Haley, when we talked about testimony, you said, -[2458.02 --> 2460.56] Mom, my story is so boring. -[2461.34 --> 2463.06] And I remember feeling that way, too. -[2463.78 --> 2468.44] Like you, I lived in a Christian home, went to church, Sunday school, gems, youth. -[2468.44 --> 2469.62] Christian school. -[2470.38 --> 2471.58] No dramatic moments. -[2472.68 --> 2476.00] Just a gentle calling from Jesus that's kind of always been there. -[2476.96 --> 2479.36] But the more I thought about this boring testimony, -[2479.98 --> 2482.82] I remembered that this story isn't about you or me. -[2483.40 --> 2484.32] It's God's story. -[2484.98 --> 2489.66] And what this story tells is God's faithfulness to many generations of our family. -[2490.84 --> 2496.24] Someday, you might meet someone who needs to hear your story about God's faithfulness. -[2496.24 --> 2499.24] And also, God's not done writing your story. -[2499.98 --> 2509.12] It's my wish that every once in a while, you'll stop and look back on your life and see where God has led you and trust him for your future. -[2509.12 --> 2514.80] The verses I picked for you are from Psalm 100, verse 3 to 5. -[2515.80 --> 2517.30] Know that the Lord is God. -[2517.72 --> 2519.88] It is he that made us, and we are his. -[2520.34 --> 2522.80] We are his people and the sheep of his pasture. -[2523.88 --> 2526.52] Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise. -[2527.14 --> 2529.06] Give thanks to him and bless his name. -[2529.64 --> 2530.60] For the Lord is good. -[2531.18 --> 2533.08] His steadfast love endures forever. -[2533.42 --> 2535.60] And his faithfulness to all generations. -[2535.60 --> 2550.20] I'm now going to invite up McKelty Grimm and her spiritual mentor, Nicole Rook. -[2550.20 --> 2550.60] Hello. -[2563.06 --> 2569.44] My biggest blessing that I have been given are my families, the Christian schools that I attended, and the church. -[2569.70 --> 2573.12] All these communities and people helped me grow in my faith throughout the years. -[2573.12 --> 2583.46] When I look back as a child and young teenager, I would have considered myself a Christian, but I relied heavily on the faith of people around me instead of developing my own relationship with God. -[2584.32 --> 2587.10] That changed in grade 11 when I switched schools. -[2588.00 --> 2594.16] This was a turning point in my faith because everything I had ever known had been turned upside down except for the church and my family. -[2594.78 --> 2599.14] Fortunately, both of these communities and my new one pointed me towards Jesus. -[2599.14 --> 2606.28] My parents modeled a Christian relationship with God daily and were always willing to have conversations and answer questions. -[2606.92 --> 2612.92] I dove into attending youth events and building relationships with my leaders and other youth, which strengthened my faith even more. -[2613.50 --> 2623.50] I hadn't picked up my Bible much before this point, but I had a teacher who strongly encouraged me that reading your Bible helps develop a relationship with God. -[2623.86 --> 2625.70] I decided to start reading it every night. -[2625.70 --> 2630.00] I started in Psalms and Proverbs, which quickly became my favorite books of the Bible. -[2631.24 --> 2634.88] I wanted to share one verse that has impacted me greatly. -[2635.26 --> 2640.44] This verse is the first verse that I memorized from hearing it and reading it enough without having to for school. -[2640.84 --> 2643.96] It's from Proverbs 31, verse 25, which says, -[2644.36 --> 2647.78] She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. -[2648.28 --> 2651.68] I'm looking forward to growing in my faith and relationship with God going forward. -[2651.68 --> 2652.68] Thank you. -[2655.70 --> 2656.70] Thank you. -[2656.70 --> 2657.70] Thank you. -[2657.70 --> 2658.70] Thank you. -[2660.70 --> 2665.20] Kevin did not give me a fancy little duotain, so I have my papers. -[2668.26 --> 2668.70] Okay. -[2669.06 --> 2670.50] McElty, what an exciting day. -[2670.80 --> 2673.34] It feels like it's been a long time coming, but you made it. -[2674.06 --> 2676.00] So we've known each other for quite some time. -[2676.36 --> 2682.18] I was your GEMS leader way back in the day for a little while, and then I got to be your youth leader for five years. -[2682.18 --> 2688.68] I was thinking back on our time in youth, and I remember the time that me and Sarah were helping you girls get ready for your Christmas banquet at school. -[2689.24 --> 2692.82] We were driving you to the dance, and Sarah and I were, like, blasting the song. -[2692.88 --> 2693.86] I think it was the Dixie Chicks. -[2694.32 --> 2696.54] And we were singing, like, as loud as we possibly could. -[2696.60 --> 2700.36] And I turned and I looked back, and all of you girls just looked terrified. -[2700.86 --> 2706.36] Like, who are these two girls who are going to be our youth leaders for the next however long? -[2707.28 --> 2709.08] And look at us now. -[2709.56 --> 2712.86] And now I have a wonderful friend who we can go for dinner and we can go for drinks. -[2713.88 --> 2717.40] And McElty, it has been an absolute pleasure watching you grow up. -[2717.58 --> 2720.30] You've always had such a kind heart and a willingness to serve. -[2721.08 --> 2721.86] You're laid back. -[2722.00 --> 2723.92] Go with the flow as long as everyone else is happy. -[2724.40 --> 2729.64] One thing that's always impressed me through all of the ups and downs of your life is that you've always looked to God. -[2729.64 --> 2734.02] I know we talked in youth about how to listen to God and how to be still. -[2734.24 --> 2738.06] But I think that's something that has always come naturally to you, whether you know it or not. -[2738.64 --> 2743.56] So my encouragement to you as you go through these next stages of life, whenever you're at a crossroads, -[2743.96 --> 2746.24] is take it to God in prayer and worship. -[2746.52 --> 2749.56] As long and no matter what, you won't go wrong. -[2749.70 --> 2750.86] He will never lead you astray. -[2751.36 --> 2753.46] And I just have a couple verses I want to share. -[2753.92 --> 2756.84] One I think really speaks to this day in your profession of faith. -[2756.84 --> 2761.34] And that is Colossians 2, verse 6 to 7. -[2761.84 --> 2768.26] So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your life in him, rooted and built up in him, -[2768.82 --> 2772.40] strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. -[2772.84 --> 2775.58] And another verse, I think, just speaks to you and your heart as a person. -[2775.68 --> 2776.62] So I'm going to share that to you. -[2777.48 --> 2780.08] And that is Philippians 4, verse 4 to 7. -[2781.04 --> 2782.34] Rejoice in the Lord always. -[2782.58 --> 2783.88] I will say it again, rejoice. -[2783.88 --> 2786.28] Let your gentleness be evident to all. -[2786.28 --> 2787.52] The Lord is near. -[2787.80 --> 2792.82] Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving. -[2794.10 --> 2795.52] Present your request to God. -[2795.90 --> 2800.78] And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your heart and your mind in Jesus Christ. -[2800.78 --> 2814.98] And fourthly, I would like to invite up Carson Grimm to the front here. -[2815.16 --> 2821.48] And he couldn't choose one person to speak on his behalf, so he picked both Josh Chamberlain and Nathan Visser to come forward. -[2821.48 --> 2822.48] So you guys can come up, too. -[2832.16 --> 2832.90] Hi, everyone. -[2833.62 --> 2835.38] I'm Carson Grimm, if you don't know me. -[2835.38 --> 2836.38] I'm Carson Grimm. -[2836.38 --> 2837.76] And, um, sorry. -[2838.16 --> 2842.62] A lot of things have brought me to this point in my life where I want to publicly make my faith my own. -[2843.12 --> 2846.60] Even though my faith is my own, multiple things have shaped it. -[2847.30 --> 2851.78] My parents and youth leaders have always been there for me through thick and thin in my faith journey. -[2851.78 --> 2859.88] They have helped me answer so many questions I've had over the years and have given me all the tools I need to continue my faith life at university. -[2860.42 --> 2865.46] They're amazing role models that have shown me all the benefits that having faith in Christ can do in your life. -[2866.32 --> 2868.92] Another big reason I'm here is experiences. -[2869.52 --> 2872.10] One of them is the Mexico missions trip two years ago. -[2872.40 --> 2877.78] This was one of my favorite trips I've ever been on and has strengthened my faith a lot. -[2877.78 --> 2885.16] Through daily team prayers and helping the community in Tijuana, it opened my eyes to multiple different views on faith. -[2885.66 --> 2898.88] This trip taught me multiple lessons, but one of them that will stick with me is that people without a lot of materialistic things can still be extremely happy just off their relationship with Christ. -[2899.76 --> 2902.38] It is a privilege to be up here today and share my story. -[2902.38 --> 2907.22] I'm excited to continue my journey with the help of my family, friends, and the church. -[2907.78 --> 2908.78] I'm excited to be here today and share my story with the help of my family. -[2908.78 --> 2909.78] I'm excited to be here today and I'm excited to be here today and I'm excited to be here today. -[2909.78 --> 2910.78] Thank you. -[2910.78 --> 2911.78] That was true. -[2919.78 --> 2920.78] Okay. -[2920.78 --> 2921.78] Sorry about that. -[2921.78 --> 2922.78] It's not COVID. -[2922.78 --> 2925.48] It's just the emotions. -[2925.48 --> 2929.78] Carson is a man. -[2929.78 --> 2937.76] And one of the features, character traits of him that I most admire is his name. -[2937.76 --> 2940.76] His dedication, his discipline. -[2940.76 --> 2950.76] Whatever he sets his mind to, he accomplishes, even if that's making a fool of himself. -[2950.76 --> 2959.76] And that I admire because sometimes in the face of hardship or being laughed at, I'll cower, but he won't. -[2959.76 --> 2962.76] And I've learned that about him. -[2962.76 --> 2963.76] And it's great. -[2963.76 --> 2972.76] And a verse that I think that if he applied to his life, which he does in so many ways, is Deuteronomy 6.5. -[2972.76 --> 2977.76] Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. -[2977.76 --> 2980.76] His dedication is profound. -[2980.76 --> 2985.76] And if he did that in every manner of life, he will continue to be great. -[2985.76 --> 2986.76] All right. -[2986.76 --> 3002.76] So when I was asked to do Carson's, I mean, first of all, he asked me like three days ago. -[3002.76 --> 3003.76] So there's always that. -[3003.76 --> 3015.76] But when I was asked, I thought, looking back and just thinking about the past five years with him and just all the blessings that he's poured to us. -[3015.76 --> 3020.76] And like Josh said, the big thing that really, really poured out was just determination. -[3020.76 --> 3034.76] And it's whether it was sitting in the middle of youth and doing chair flips for whatever reason while Kevin was talking just so he could land the perfect one or just everything he puts 110% effort into. -[3034.76 --> 3036.76] And we appreciate it immensely. -[3036.76 --> 3041.76] Carson, today you're going to do your profession of faith in front of this wonderful congregation. -[3041.76 --> 3043.76] And that's amazing. -[3043.76 --> 3044.76] Super proud of you. -[3044.76 --> 3045.76] Super happy. -[3045.76 --> 3047.76] 桜, later, this ended up. -[3047.76 --> 3057.76] But I do empower you to, as you go east to go to school, I empower you to keep this moment on the forefront of your mind. -[3057.76 --> 3060.24] You are, you will be tested again. -[3060.24 --> 3065.86] And I know you will be able to put 110% effort into it and you will succeed. -[3065.86 --> 3075.76] So I just wanna read the verse that has already been spoken of tonight, but it is Romans 10.9. -[3075.76 --> 3078.98] one moment, that if you confess with your mouth -[3078.98 --> 3082.58] that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, -[3082.74 --> 3086.66] you will be saved. So I just want you to remember that -[3086.66 --> 3090.92] as you go forward and I appreciate all the love, all the joy, -[3091.04 --> 3094.76] all the laughs you've given us in the past five years and looking forward to carrying on -[3094.76 --> 3095.34] our relationship. -[3102.02 --> 3104.52] Yeah, Carson, you can stay, buddy. And I'm going to -[3104.52 --> 3108.46] re-invite Ben and Haley and McKelty. You guys can come forward as well. -[3108.90 --> 3111.60] And Pastor Chris is here too, and he will lead us through the rest of this. -[3117.86 --> 3122.10] All right. Why don't you guys, why don't you guys move down a little ways and then -[3122.10 --> 3124.90] you guys can come over on this side here. We'll -[3124.90 --> 3130.12] be mindful of framing up the shot at the back. There we go. -[3130.92 --> 3134.12] I got the okay. We're good. Things you have to learn how to do, -[3134.12 --> 3141.52] during these times. So there are a few Sundays a year that are my absolute favorites. -[3142.52 --> 3145.76] As you can no doubt expect, Easter Sunday is one of them, -[3146.16 --> 3151.76] and Profession of Faith Sunday, or Sundays, as the case may be, is another one. -[3151.76 --> 3163.44] I love the testimony that is God's faithfulness to the life of the church that is represented by hearing stories like yours. -[3163.44 --> 3172.92] Whether they are the absolute craziest stories of God turning life around, or they are the simple stories of God's faithfulness in the same direction. -[3174.84 --> 3179.96] As a parent, I can tell you, I pray that my kids have that same story. -[3179.96 --> 3189.40] And I'm blessed to stand here with you guys and to see God at work in this community and to hear from your spiritual mentors. -[3189.40 --> 3191.80] So many years ago, -[3191.80 --> 3195.86] at your baptism, whether that was in this church or another church, -[3195.86 --> 3199.88] the community of faith promised to journey with you. -[3201.08 --> 3204.26] Today marks a milestone on that journey. -[3205.36 --> 3210.40] And so as part of our service, we will also promise to commit again to you and with you. -[3210.40 --> 3213.28] And you promise committing to us. -[3213.28 --> 3218.82] This is a beautiful testimony of God's faithfulness to his church. -[3219.74 --> 3221.54] We're going to ask you guys a few questions. -[3221.70 --> 3222.68] You've seen these questions. -[3222.82 --> 3225.12] You've gone through them before in pastor's class. -[3225.20 --> 3225.90] There's four of them. -[3226.48 --> 3232.10] And then I will go down the line and ask you to respond as you are moved by the Spirit. -[3232.10 --> 3234.06] I invite you to respond by saying, -[3234.20 --> 3235.72] I do, God helping me. -[3237.00 --> 3242.76] And so, Ben, Haley, Carson, and McKelty. -[3243.28 --> 3248.74] Do you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God sent to redeem the world? -[3249.38 --> 3253.42] Do you love and trust him as the one who saves you from your sin? -[3254.14 --> 3259.38] And do you with repentance and joy embrace him as the Lord of your life? -[3260.64 --> 3265.56] Two, do you believe that the Bible is the word of God revealing Christ and his redemption -[3265.56 --> 3270.62] and that the confessions of this church faithfully reflect this revelation? -[3270.62 --> 3277.74] Three, do you accept the gracious promises of God sealed to you in your baptism? -[3278.08 --> 3283.04] And do you affirm your union with Christ and his church, which your baptism signifies? -[3284.26 --> 3290.56] And four, do you promise to do all that you can with the help of the Holy Spirit to strengthen -[3290.56 --> 3296.04] your love and commitment to Christ by sharing faithfully in the life of the church, honoring -[3296.04 --> 3297.58] and submitting to its authority? -[3297.58 --> 3303.28] And do you join with the people of God in doing the work of the Lord everywhere? -[3304.72 --> 3306.58] Ben, what is your answer? -[3310.90 --> 3312.50] Haley, what is your answer? -[3313.12 --> 3314.68] I do, God helping me. -[3316.18 --> 3317.64] Carson, what is your answer? -[3318.36 --> 3319.74] I do, God helping me. -[3320.94 --> 3322.26] McKelty, what is your answer? -[3322.26 --> 3324.18] I do, God helping me. -[3325.46 --> 3325.86] Amen. -[3328.10 --> 3335.50] In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, I now welcome you to all the privileges of full communion. -[3336.24 --> 3339.88] I welcome you to full participation in the life of the church. -[3340.28 --> 3344.50] I welcome you to its responsibilities, its joys, and its sufferings. -[3344.50 --> 3349.80] May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead, -[3349.92 --> 3355.62] our Lord Jesus Christ, the great shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good -[3355.62 --> 3357.42] for doing his will. -[3358.10 --> 3364.50] And may he work in us what is pleasing to him through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever -[3364.50 --> 3365.22] and ever. -[3366.08 --> 3366.54] Amen. -[3366.54 --> 3374.50] Church family, I'm going to invite you as you are able to stand. -[3374.60 --> 3376.54] I'm going to ask you a question as well. -[3377.18 --> 3381.62] I'm going to invite you to respond if you would in fact agree with the question by saying -[3381.62 --> 3383.16] we do, God helping us. -[3383.32 --> 3389.84] To those of you who are participating at home, please also respond in kind when we do. -[3389.84 --> 3401.12] Do you, people of God, promise McKelty, Carson, Haley, and Ben your love, encouragement, and prayers? -[3401.68 --> 3402.40] What is your answer? -[3406.58 --> 3407.22] Amen. -[3408.40 --> 3409.26] You may be seated. -[3409.38 --> 3409.74] Thank you. -[3411.32 --> 3414.84] For what it's worth, take that seriously. -[3414.84 --> 3422.16] They long, and we all together long, to encourage you, love you, support you, and pray for you. -[3422.54 --> 3426.02] And so come what may, let us be on that journey of faith with you. -[3427.48 --> 3431.18] I'm going to invite Elder Peter Rolleman to come forward. -[3431.34 --> 3432.36] He has a gift for you. -[3433.80 --> 3436.70] They are personally addressed, so find the right one. -[3436.86 --> 3439.54] And then if you don't know who you're talking to, just say the name out loud. -[3439.54 --> 3439.62] Amen. -[3444.84 --> 3460.82] And then finally, we're going to pray over these people as they have made their profession of faith. -[3461.18 --> 3467.04] And this week, again, like we did last week, we're going to do that a little bit differently. -[3467.04 --> 3474.54] And so if you're part of the household bubble of each of these people, I'm going to invite you to come forward for the laying on of hands. -[3474.66 --> 3478.64] And then for the rest of us, I'm just going to ask that you extend your hand out or hold your hand out. -[3478.68 --> 3482.46] If you're at home, you can do the same as a mark of God's spirit working through you. -[3482.54 --> 3486.90] And so I'm going to get you guys, since you're sort of bubbled together, to separate out so we have enough room. -[3487.68 --> 3489.36] And then household bubbles, come on up. -[3490.04 --> 3495.48] Household groups, whatever you discern that to be safe and wise. -[3495.48 --> 3497.66] And then I'll invite the rest of you to stand. -[3498.00 --> 3499.24] Thanks, Emo, for leading in that. -[3504.96 --> 3506.32] So put a hand on a shoulder. -[3506.56 --> 3511.54] If you can't reach, put a hand on the person who's behind with a hand on the shoulder. -[3512.54 --> 3518.52] Extend your hands that we might offer God's blessing on this day. -[3525.48 --> 3527.42] And so we bless them in this prayer. -[3530.00 --> 3538.66] Lord, our God, we thank you for your word and spirit through which we know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. -[3538.66 --> 3551.06] This morning, may Carson and McKelty, Ben and Haley, having confessed your name, never cease to wonder at what you have done for them. -[3552.12 --> 3560.44] Help them to continue firmly in the faith, to bear witness to your love, and to let the Holy Spirit shape their lives. -[3560.44 --> 3567.52] Take them, good shepherd, into your care that they may loyally endure opposition in serving you. -[3568.82 --> 3575.52] And may we, with all your children, live together in the joy and power of your Holy Spirit. -[3576.52 --> 3581.54] We ask this, Lord Jesus, in the hope of your coming. -[3581.80 --> 3583.54] Come quickly, we pray. -[3584.76 --> 3585.12] Amen. -[3585.12 --> 3585.28] Amen. -[3586.72 --> 3587.28] Amen. -[3587.28 --> 3587.34] Amen. -[3589.42 --> 3590.66] Thank you all very much. -[3591.54 --> 3593.14] You may wake your way back to your seat. -[3605.14 --> 3605.62] Amen. -[3617.28 --> 3619.28] Amen. -[3620.48 --> 3621.14] Amen. -[3621.14 --> 3621.92] Amen. -[3621.92 --> 3622.18] Amen. -[3622.18 --> 3623.30] Amen. -[3623.30 --> 3623.76] Amen. -[3623.76 --> 3625.54] Amen. -[3625.54 --> 3625.60] God, amen. -[3625.60 --> 3626.74] Amen. -[3627.08 --> 3627.30] Amen. -[3627.48 --> 3628.88] Amen. -[3632.88 --> 3633.72] Amen. -[3633.72 --> 3633.82] Amen. -[3633.82 --> 3635.72] Amen. -[3635.74 --> 3638.06] Amen. -[3638.06 --> 3644.38] tabletsi -[3644.38 --> 3647.78] I turn to heaven -[3647.78 --> 3651.38] and start your feet -[3651.38 --> 3655.38] into the sky -[3655.38 --> 3659.38] And through the darkness -[3660.20 --> 3663.38] your loving kindness -[3663.94 --> 3667.36] tore through the shadows -[3667.36 --> 3671.38] of my soul -[3671.38 --> 3675.38] The world is finished -[3675.38 --> 3679.38] The world is risen -[3679.38 --> 3685.38] Jesus Christ, my dear -[3691.38 --> 3697.38] The earth has made no mercy -[3697.38 --> 3701.38] The world can't offer -[3701.38 --> 3705.38] such boundless grace -[3705.38 --> 3709.38] The world is risen -[3709.38 --> 3713.38] The world of glory -[3713.38 --> 3715.38] To wear my sin -[3715.38 --> 3719.38] And wear my shame -[3719.38 --> 3723.38] The gospel spoken -[3723.38 --> 3725.38] I am forgiven -[3725.38 --> 3727.38] I am forgiven -[3727.38 --> 3731.38] The King of kings -[3731.38 --> 3733.38] The King of kings -[3733.38 --> 3735.38] The King of kings -[3735.38 --> 3737.38] The King of kings -[3737.38 --> 3739.38] The King of kings -[3739.38 --> 3741.38] The King of kings -[3741.38 --> 3743.38] The King of kings -[3743.38 --> 3745.38] The King of kings -[3745.38 --> 3747.38] The King of kings -[3747.38 --> 3749.38] The King of kings -[3749.38 --> 3751.38] The King of kings -[3751.38 --> 3753.38] The King of kings -[3753.38 --> 3755.38] And the king of kings -[3755.38 --> 3756.38] The King of kings -[3756.38 --> 3757.38] The King of kings -[3757.38 --> 3758.38] The King of kings -[3758.38 --> 3760.38] kings -[3760.38 --> 3762.38] The King of kings -[3762.38 --> 3764.38] The King of kings -[3764.38 --> 3766.38] kings -[3766.38 --> 3767.38] The King of kings -[3767.38 --> 3768.38] The King of kings -[3768.38 --> 3769.38] The King of kings -[3769.38 --> 3774.38] kings -[3774.38 --> 3775.38] The King of kings -[3775.38 --> 3777.38] The King of kings -[3777.38 --> 3778.38] kings -[3778.38 --> 3779.38] the king of kings -[3779.38 --> 3782.38] The King of kings -[3782.38 --> 3783.38] The King of kings -[3783.38 --> 3784.38] The King of kings -[3784.38 --> 3789.14] is the one who set me free -[3789.14 --> 3792.38] hallelujah -[3792.38 --> 3796.38] death has lost its bread from me -[3796.38 --> 3800.12] you have broken every chain -[3800.12 --> 3803.76] there's salvation in your name -[3803.76 --> 3805.92] Jesus Christ -[3805.92 --> 3809.68] my living hope -[3814.38 --> 3817.54] then came the morning -[3817.54 --> 3821.76] that sealed the promise -[3821.76 --> 3824.96] that the very morning -[3824.96 --> 3828.72] began to breathe -[3828.72 --> 3833.36] the silence -[3833.36 --> 3835.26] the glory -[3835.26 --> 3836.36] the glory -[3836.36 --> 3838.12] the glory -[3838.12 --> 3841.62] has no pain -[3841.62 --> 3846.62] the glory -[3846.62 --> 3847.62] the glory -[3847.62 --> 3850.62] has no promise -[3850.62 --> 3852.62] the glory -[3852.62 --> 3854.62] the glory -[3854.62 --> 3858.62] began to breathe -[3858.62 --> 3860.62] the glory -[3860.62 --> 3862.62] the glory -[3862.62 --> 3864.62] the glory -[3864.62 --> 3869.62] the glory -[3869.62 --> 3871.62] the glory -[3871.62 --> 3873.62] the glory -[3873.62 --> 3874.12] the glory -[3874.62 --> 3875.62] Jesus -[3875.62 --> 3876.62] yours -[3876.62 --> 3878.62] is the victory -[3878.62 --> 3880.62] Oh -[3908.62 --> 3910.62] Oh -[3910.62 --> 3912.62] Oh -[3912.62 --> 3914.62] Hallelujah -[3914.62 --> 3918.62] He's the one who sent him free -[3918.62 --> 3920.62] Hallelujah -[3920.62 --> 3922.62] Hallelujah -[3922.62 --> 3926.62] Death has lost its grip on me -[3926.62 --> 3930.62] You have broken every chain -[3930.62 --> 3934.62] There's salvation in your name -[3934.62 --> 3936.62] Jesus Christ -[3936.62 --> 3938.62] My living -[3938.62 --> 3940.62] home -[3940.62 --> 3942.62] Jesus Christ -[3942.62 --> 3944.62] My living -[3944.62 --> 3946.62] home -[3946.62 --> 3948.62] Oh -[3948.62 --> 3950.62] God you are -[3950.62 --> 3952.62] My living -[3952.62 --> 3954.62] home -[3954.62 --> 3958.62] I invite you to be seated. -[3964.62 --> 3966.62] Yes -[3966.62 --> 3968.62] Once again -[3968.62 --> 3970.62] I -[3970.62 --> 3972.62] have -[3972.62 --> 3974.62] a -[3974.62 --> 3976.62] meeting -[3976.62 --> 3978.62] of -[3978.62 --> 3980.62] the -[3980.62 --> 3982.62] meeting -[3982.62 --> 3984.62] of -[3984.62 --> 3986.62] the -[3986.62 --> 3988.62] meeting -[3988.62 --> 3990.62] of -[3990.62 --> 3992.62] the -[3992.62 --> 3993.62] meeting -[3993.62 --> 3995.62] Yes -[3995.62 --> 3997.62] Once again -[3997.62 --> 3999.62] I'm thankful to God that I could witness the testimony of these -[3999.62 --> 4001.62] four young Christians -[4001.62 --> 4007.62] and I pray that the Holy Spirit will lead and guide them to great things for the Lord in the future. -[4023.62 --> 4033.62] A -[4033.62 --> 4035.62] Those to us who live in the future are for these days to say about Christ. -[4035.62 --> 4039.62] Give us the opportunity to prepare a given Saturday. -[4039.62 --> 4041.62] David -[4041.62 --> 4054.88] They begin to demonstrate God's forgiveness and reach out in love even to their oppressors. -[4054.88 --> 4060.60] One of the greatest challenges to Christians living under oppression is isolation from -[4060.60 --> 4064.70] God's Word and from the body of Christ. -[4064.70 --> 4071.60] In 1 Corinthians 12 verse 26 it says, if one member suffers, all suffer together. -[4071.60 --> 4075.56] If one member is honored, all rejoice together. -[4075.56 --> 4082.10] Open Doors empowers persecuted Christians by supplying Bibles and Christian literature, -[4082.10 --> 4090.32] training Christian leaders, facilitating social and economic projects, and uniting believers -[4090.32 --> 4096.72] in the West in prayer for Christians who are the most persecuted religious group in the -[4096.72 --> 4102.82] world and are oppressed in at least 70 countries. -[4102.82 --> 4109.70] Please give generously and pray for our brothers and sisters who are persecuted for Jesus' sake. -[4109.70 --> 4114.48] Next week's offering is for the church budget and Calvin Seminary. -[4114.48 --> 4118.72] Calvin Seminary is the official seminary for the Christian Reformed denomination. -[4118.72 --> 4119.78] Thank you. -[4119.78 --> 4119.80] Thank you. -[4119.80 --> 4120.30] Thank you. -[4139.26 --> 4143.22] Let's come together in our church, family, and congregational prayer. -[4143.22 --> 4151.84] Holy Father, it is hot. -[4152.04 --> 4153.00] It's a hot day today. -[4154.70 --> 4161.24] And we are especially thinking about those today as it just gets hotter today and tomorrow. -[4162.86 --> 4164.20] About those who struggle. -[4164.20 --> 4171.56] We often read in several years that there's always some who struggle, whether it be in the cold -[4171.56 --> 4173.66] of the winter or in the heat of the summer. -[4174.60 --> 4182.22] And as we look towards probably some record-breaking temperatures, Lord, that you protect those who -[4182.22 --> 4185.16] are especially vulnerable because of this. -[4185.16 --> 4193.36] And also just help everyone to be able to overcome and get through this heat. -[4196.24 --> 4201.30] Lord, we are thankful today for Ismay. -[4201.64 --> 4208.36] Thankful that she is able to return to a bit of a life a bit more normal back home with her family, -[4208.52 --> 4209.58] recovering from surgery. -[4210.38 --> 4211.60] We're thankful for that. -[4211.60 --> 4219.62] And Lord, we also pray for Marga as she is recovering from her surgery as well. -[4219.90 --> 4220.92] And pray for healing there. -[4222.58 --> 4228.32] Lord, we know that Bob is diagnosed now with lymphoma. -[4229.30 --> 4236.06] And he is now going through treatments and feeling some of the side effects of that, Lord. -[4236.06 --> 4243.74] Lord, be with him, keep him strength, and also give him strength from those around him to support him. -[4245.32 --> 4252.86] Lord, we think of our neighbors just a few houses down the road here who had an unexpected fire -[4252.86 --> 4256.52] that has affected two houses. -[4257.64 --> 4260.48] And we could see them on the way to church today. -[4260.48 --> 4265.48] Lord, be with those families here in our neighborhood. -[4266.40 --> 4272.26] I already know that the community has surrounded them with GoFundMe campaigns and raising money for them to help them, -[4272.34 --> 4277.72] which is great to see, Lord, and help us also to pray and support them in our neighborhood as much as we can here. -[4279.94 --> 4285.70] Lord, thank you again for the blessing of Profession of Faith. -[4285.70 --> 4290.54] We saw the young people here today as well as last week. -[4290.90 --> 4298.02] We're thankful for those who come up, stand in front here of your church and in front of you. -[4298.26 --> 4301.36] And it is not an easy thing to do just to be in front of people, -[4301.80 --> 4306.38] but thankful that they have that strength and they have summoned that from you, Lord, -[4306.48 --> 4307.80] to come up here and say, -[4308.40 --> 4311.58] I am living my life for Jesus Christ. -[4311.58 --> 4315.30] And are asking the church to walk beside them. -[4315.40 --> 4318.46] And the church committing that is a beautiful thing. -[4319.84 --> 4322.22] Lord, as we've mentioned here today, -[4322.32 --> 4329.88] we're looking forward to an announcement coming this week about the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, Lord. -[4330.72 --> 4334.14] Thank you for the communication from the health officer. -[4334.62 --> 4340.14] We look forward to being here in bigger numbers and worshiping together. -[4340.14 --> 4343.42] And hopefully there's more changes around what that looks like too, Lord. -[4344.88 --> 4349.20] We, as a church, long to be a community together. -[4349.38 --> 4351.68] And that includes worshiping here together in person. -[4352.22 --> 4357.54] And Lord, we look forward to being brought here again together to worship you, Lord, -[4357.62 --> 4364.24] as we see restrictions ease and maybe even a state of emergency lifted as well, Lord. -[4364.36 --> 4365.10] Thank you for that. -[4365.10 --> 4368.06] Be with us as we go on through this day. -[4368.20 --> 4370.76] Be with Kevin as he delivers your word to us, Lord. -[4371.34 --> 4373.56] Give him strength again in this heat. -[4374.20 --> 4383.84] And as well, be with us as we listen and be mindful of what we hear and apply that to our day and our life. -[4384.24 --> 4385.08] In Jesus' name we pray. -[4385.62 --> 4385.86] Amen. -[4385.86 --> 4385.94] Amen. -[4385.94 --> 4385.96] Amen. -[4385.96 --> 4385.98] Amen. -[4385.98 --> 4386.00] Amen. -[4386.00 --> 4386.04] Amen. -[4395.10 --> 4410.50] Amen. -[4410.74 --> 4413.18] Amen. -[4416.00 --> 4418.08] And we're gonna say amen. -[4418.08 --> 4420.74] Thank you for thehal. -[4420.80 --> 4421.14] Amen. -[4422.14 --> 4422.82] Thank you. -[4422.82 --> 4423.28] Amen. -[4423.28 --> 4424.92] Amen. -[4424.92 --> 4430.16] that right now it is 10.06 and we are an hour and six minutes into this service and I want you all -[4430.16 --> 4434.96] to know that my service will reflect that. I knew that we were doing Professions of Faith today. I -[4434.96 --> 4438.80] knew that it was going to be hot. So you're going to be hearing this passage. I'll provide a little -[4438.80 --> 4444.02] context and you're getting just a one-pointer today. So that's happening. Just be ready. But -[4444.02 --> 4449.22] even though it's a shorter sermon and there's only one point, it's a good point. So like just be -[4449.22 --> 4455.06] excited about that. Spoiler alert, it's about grace. So be ready. Thirdly, not only is my sermon -[4455.06 --> 4460.22] short, but I am wearing shorts because I thought that should reflect, there should be symmetry there. -[4460.96 --> 4464.56] It's 40 degrees today. The idea that pastors need to wear pants when they're standing in front of a -[4464.56 --> 4469.46] church to preach, that rule goes away at about 32 degrees, let alone 42. So I made the switch, -[4469.80 --> 4474.02] but I did talk to the camera people. You're getting a waist up shot at home, so you won't even notice. -[4474.02 --> 4478.08] So don't worry about it. And those of you here, please just make like intense eye contact and -[4478.08 --> 4485.80] then you won't notice either. So I'm also wearing sandals today because WWJD. So that's enough -[4485.80 --> 4494.10] preamble. Today we're going to look at an awesome, yet a very confusing story about Jesus and a -[4494.10 --> 4500.82] Syrophoenician woman. Now that's pronounced Syrophoenician, not Syrophoenician. I've been -[4500.82 --> 4506.30] practicing. So this story is found in Mark 7, verse 24 to 30. So please, if you've got your Bibles with -[4506.30 --> 4511.14] you here, if you are at home, please open up your Bibles, snuggle in at home to this text. If you're -[4511.14 --> 4514.00] here, your Bibles, your phone is good. Sit up nice and straight. It's good for your back. -[4514.84 --> 4518.70] And read with me this story. Mark 7, 24 to 30 says, -[4519.30 --> 4526.70] Jesus left that place and went to the vicinity of Tyre. He entered a house and did not want anyone -[4526.70 --> 4532.94] to know it. Yet he could not keep his presence secret. In fact, as soon as she heard about him, -[4532.94 --> 4539.36] a woman whose little daughter was possessed by an impure spirit came and fell at his feet. The -[4539.36 --> 4545.72] woman was a Greek born in Syrian Phoenicia. She begged Jesus to drive the demon out of her daughter. -[4546.78 --> 4551.22] First, let the children eat all they want, he told her, for it is not right to take the children's -[4551.22 --> 4559.14] bread and toss it to the dogs. Lord, she replied, even the dogs under the table eat the children's -[4559.14 --> 4565.90] crumbs. Then he told her, for such a reply you may go, the demon has left your daughter. She went home -[4565.90 --> 4571.80] and found her child lying on the bed and the demon gone. The word of the Lord. -[4573.62 --> 4578.84] Now, as always, a little bit of context here will provide a bit of clarity to a confusing exchange -[4578.84 --> 4585.38] between Jesus and this woman. We will come to realize that grace is at the center of this story -[4585.38 --> 4590.28] and that grace, more than anything, is at the foundation of your stories as well. -[4591.26 --> 4595.72] But as I said, in order to see that, we need to do a little digging first. So, let's tackle the where -[4595.72 --> 4601.94] of this passage because Mark is very specific about where this takes place. In the NIV, he says, -[4602.14 --> 4606.86] they left where they were and they went to the vicinity of Tyre. In other translations, -[4607.42 --> 4613.00] it says Tyre and Sidon. Now, this is important because this is the first and only time in Mark's -[4613.00 --> 4621.14] Gospel that Jesus leaves Jewish territory and enters Gentile territory. They enter Gentile -[4621.14 --> 4628.08] land, Tyre and Sidon, and likely this Mediterranean little seaport city of Phoenicia. And as with -[4628.08 --> 4635.82] everything, Jesus enters this Gentile territory for a reason. Now, leading up to this moment in Scripture, -[4635.82 --> 4645.58] Jesus has just spent the last sort of two stories in Mark 7 reframing Jewish thought. So, in the first -[4645.58 --> 4650.98] 13 verses of Mark 7, and feel free to check that out, Jesus sort of chats it up with the Pharisees -[4650.98 --> 4657.90] and he condemns them for putting their traditions ahead of what, in fact, the Word of the Lord says. -[4658.14 --> 4664.36] And he follows that story up right before this one and he challenges Jewish purity laws. -[4664.36 --> 4669.04] Essentially, Jesus teaches them that it's not what goes into them that defiles them, -[4669.94 --> 4675.14] but what comes out of them. And he was challenging, like I said, the purity laws, that the food, -[4675.30 --> 4681.00] the food story that they defined as clean and unclean and saying it's not what you eat, -[4682.00 --> 4689.52] but how you respond to temptation that leads to pure or unclean hearts. And so, this text today, -[4689.58 --> 4693.48] it makes the most sense if we read it from the perspective of the disciples coming from that -[4693.48 --> 4699.98] context. Jesus just rocked their world, talking about what makes someone clean. And now he's in -[4699.98 --> 4705.66] Gentile territory, a place filled with unclean people according to the standard Jewish view, -[4705.96 --> 4712.14] and Jesus ends up speaking to this woman. And again, much like the location of the story, -[4712.88 --> 4719.34] Mark really wants his readers to understand who this woman is. She's not Jewish, but she's Greek. -[4719.34 --> 4725.84] She's a Gentile by both culture and by region. And in its parallel story, this story is also found -[4725.84 --> 4733.94] in Matthew 15. She is referred to there as the Canaanite woman. So, Jesus is in a Gentile land, -[4734.18 --> 4739.84] and he's interrupted by a Canaanite woman. This woman whose forefathers were enemies of God in -[4739.84 --> 4746.04] the Jewish people. But she comes to Jesus, and she asks him to cast out a demon that has possessed -[4746.04 --> 4752.06] her little daughter. Now again, we'll just quickly recap that conversation. Verse 27 and 28 of our text -[4752.06 --> 4759.18] says, first let the children eat all they want, for it's not right to take the children's bread and -[4759.18 --> 4766.64] toss it to the dogs. Lord, she replied, even the dogs under the table eat the children's crumbs. -[4768.66 --> 4775.90] Now this conversation is a bit crazy, and Jesus' response here even seems harsh. It seems like he -[4775.90 --> 4781.62] is insulting her by calling her a dog and says that she is less important than the disciples that are -[4781.62 --> 4788.08] there in front of him. Who are there to learn from him? But that doesn't make sense. Jesus wouldn't -[4788.08 --> 4793.86] insult her, right? Why does this conversation seem to run counter to different stories in scripture of -[4793.86 --> 4800.16] Jesus, like the woman at the well, for example, or the parable of the Good Samaritan? Because the -[4800.16 --> 4805.22] answer to this is in the tone of this conversation. Now again, there's a couple things that are really -[4805.22 --> 4809.74] important about this conversation that will help bring some understanding here. First of all, -[4809.74 --> 4816.58] Jesus was aware of this woman's faith, and Jesus, he knew what was going to happen. His response, -[4817.14 --> 4823.14] it seems standoffish here, but it's actually something quite different. So Jesus is using -[4823.14 --> 4829.14] something called pirastic irony here, and if you don't know what that is, I didn't either until a few -[4829.14 --> 4836.44] days ago, and I minored in English like a decade ago. But essentially, pirastic irony is a mode of -[4836.44 --> 4842.64] communication that invites dialogue in order to affirm or sort of cement someone's belief or stance -[4842.64 --> 4848.50] in something. So in some ways, Jesus is testing this woman, but more accurately, he's giving her a chance -[4848.50 --> 4855.46] to show her faith to those around him. It's a tongue-in-cheek conversation here. Picture Jesus -[4855.46 --> 4861.60] winking as he's saying it, for example. Now there's other types of dialogue in the Bible that we can use -[4861.60 --> 4868.74] as examples of this. Genesis 19 verse 2, the angels take the same approach to Lot before they save him, -[4868.90 --> 4873.70] and they give him an opportunity to show his faith to them. Jesus does this later on with Peter in John -[4873.70 --> 4879.80] 21, when he asks Peter if he loves him three times over. Jesus knew there was a teaching moment. There's a -[4879.80 --> 4886.32] little bit more to that one as well, but pirastic irony exists there. So it's a tongue-in-cheek -[4886.32 --> 4893.14] conversation with this woman. And second of all, while it comes across as an insult, Jesus uses the -[4893.14 --> 4900.08] word dog here very cleverly. Now to the Jews, or those 12 disciples that are in front of him, -[4900.66 --> 4905.52] the word dog would have been associated to them as this derogatory term for a Gentile. -[4906.56 --> 4914.34] We can read an example of that in Revelation 22 verse 15. But this woman would not hear an insult -[4914.34 --> 4920.06] there because she wasn't Jewish. Again, in her eyes, this wasn't an insult. This was an invitation. -[4920.70 --> 4927.02] This was an invitation to a dialogue. And so with one question, Jesus uses languages that, or language, -[4927.14 --> 4933.08] sorry, that his disciples would understand to mean one thing, but this woman another. And it allows this -[4933.08 --> 4941.32] woman to respond in a way which once again would redefine how Jesus is teaching these people how God's -[4941.32 --> 4947.24] kingdom will come. And the woman's response is brilliant. She points out that even the family -[4947.24 --> 4953.68] dog gets to eat the crumbs that fall from the table. So sadly, and it's a true story here, we -[4953.68 --> 4958.62] lowbrits actually lost our family dog this week. On Wednesday, our dog Kona died, and it was a little -[4958.62 --> 4963.32] bit tragic. But one thing that's become abundantly clear to me in those few days since Kona's passing -[4963.32 --> 4970.54] is how clean he kept our kitchen floor. It is amazing how many crumbs fall to the floor when my -[4970.54 --> 4975.60] three kids sit down to eat dinner. And Kona would just hoover them up faster than the Roomba 5,000. -[4975.68 --> 4983.30] Like, it was crazy. The point is, while the children eat, there's always some food for the dogs, right? -[4984.86 --> 4990.54] While Jesus shows grace to the Jews, there's always more grace for the Gentiles, right? -[4990.54 --> 4999.84] The grace of God knows no bounds. And this woman knew that. With everything that Jesus was teaching -[4999.84 --> 5004.72] his disciples leading up to this moment about their traditions, about the purity laws, and about -[5004.72 --> 5011.50] how Jesus is transforming all of it, this conversation with this Syrophoenician woman is the rubber stamp to -[5011.50 --> 5018.30] seal it all. God's grace is limitless. And the Syrophoenician woman knew that. -[5020.54 --> 5025.24] Did you know that this is the only miracle in the entire book of Mark that Jesus performs from a -[5025.24 --> 5030.78] distance? He didn't have to go to this woman's house or visit this woman's daughter. He just said -[5030.78 --> 5037.66] to her in that spot far away, he said, you may go. The demon has left your daughter. And yet the real -[5037.66 --> 5047.44] miracle isn't that Jesus can heal people from a distance, but that God's grace overcomes all -[5047.44 --> 5054.74] prejudices and boundaries. So not only is God's grace greater than prejudices like race or social -[5054.74 --> 5061.14] class or education level or proximity to God, or in the case of this Syrophoenician woman, all of the -[5061.14 --> 5070.84] above. God's grace is greater than any boundary that you can think of. This means there is no person too -[5070.84 --> 5077.52] unqualified. There is no sin too great. There is, in fact, no faith too small -[5077.52 --> 5087.32] to receive the abundance of grace that comes from Christ Jesus. Grace even precedes faith. -[5088.92 --> 5094.86] In fact, it is God's grace that is the foundation on which our faith sprouts and is built. -[5094.86 --> 5101.72] God doesn't require faith to show grace. If he did, it wouldn't be grace. Grace can't be coerced -[5101.72 --> 5107.88] out of God. Grace, it isn't transactional. God doesn't require anything from you to grant grace. -[5107.94 --> 5113.74] If he did, we wouldn't call grace a free gift. We'd all call it an incentive to believe. And that's not -[5113.74 --> 5120.84] grace. That's never how grace is discussed in Scripture. Christ never dangled grace out like a -[5120.84 --> 5128.36] carrot in front of a donkey saying, if you believe, you can have this. No. Grace abounds from God because -[5128.36 --> 5136.84] God is the God of love. God is the God of mercy. God is the God of grace. And that's what makes grace -[5136.84 --> 5144.28] so amazing because it is unabashedly, undeservingly, and unmistakably free. -[5144.28 --> 5152.96] God sent his son to live the life that we all fail to live. And he died the death that all of us -[5152.96 --> 5160.08] deserve to die. But he rose again from the grave, defeating sin and death and providing grace for all -[5160.08 --> 5166.92] humanity. Grace that has no stipulation except that it cost Christ his life. -[5166.92 --> 5175.86] grace came first. Faith sprouts from it. People turn to God, not so that they will eventually receive -[5175.86 --> 5183.14] grace for what they have done, but because they realize they have already received God's grace. -[5185.14 --> 5190.66] The Syrophoenician woman understood this. She knew there were crumbs for her to eat because God's grace -[5190.66 --> 5196.24] was not dependent on her being Jewish or Jesus being present in her house or even if she believed. -[5196.92 --> 5203.06] But that grace from the Lord was available because grace comes first. -[5204.90 --> 5210.58] Even today, with these four lovely professions of faith that we heard, we recognize that it isn't -[5210.58 --> 5215.06] necessarily their faithfulness that we're celebrating, even though we can, and even though these are four -[5215.06 --> 5222.96] amazing people. It is God's faithfulness to them, which is emphasized by his grace. Grace that existed -[5222.96 --> 5229.32] before they even know it, which is what their testimonies today reflected. That is what we can celebrate. -[5229.32 --> 5239.00] The Jewish people had a hard time with Jesus. They didn't understand this abundance of grace that -[5239.00 --> 5243.94] Jesus poured out for everyone. They would not eat the spiritual food that Jesus had spread out so -[5243.94 --> 5251.44] abundantly for them. But this woman knew that Jesus could save. They expected him to be gracious to her -[5251.44 --> 5257.10] because she knew his grace. All she needed was a crumb. -[5259.50 --> 5265.22] That is the point for today. We must recognize that we have no claim on Christ's grace, -[5265.22 --> 5273.42] but we can expect him to be gracious in all circumstances because that's who he is. -[5273.42 --> 5281.60] Only when we truly understand the endless supply, the boundless measure, the extreme magnitude of his -[5281.60 --> 5287.90] grace, and we recognize that God's grace is the foundation that even our own faith sprouts from, -[5288.90 --> 5295.82] then we will start to know him more, understand him more, and start to be transformed by him more. -[5295.82 --> 5305.02] There is no sin in your life that is greater than grace. We are all set free. Give it to Christ. He -[5305.02 --> 5311.72] can bear it. Your chains are gone. You've been set free from your sin. Your God, your Savior, -[5311.86 --> 5321.86] has ransomed you like a flood. His mercy reigns because he has unending love and amazing grace. Amen. Let me pray. -[5321.86 --> 5332.62] Father God, this gift of grace is incredible. It is something that we perhaps are guilty of putting -[5332.62 --> 5339.66] boundaries on, thinking perhaps there's things we have done that are not deserving of it. And Lord, -[5339.74 --> 5346.36] while we are undeserving of your grace, it is there for us. You have granted it. Your son came, -[5346.36 --> 5353.78] he lived, he died, he rose again. His grace abounds for all. May we truly understand the magnitude of -[5353.78 --> 5361.26] grace that exists for all of us, and that we only need a crumb. And so God, as we leave this place, we go out -[5361.26 --> 5368.06] into our weeks, into our summers, into our jobs, our schools, into whatever our life brings us. -[5369.00 --> 5374.58] May we be able to proclaim the truth of this grace that exists for all people, because that is the hope that -[5374.58 --> 5378.30] so many people need. We pray this in your son's name. Amen. -[5404.58 --> 5405.58] Amen. -[5405.58 --> 5406.58] Thank you. -[5406.58 --> 5407.58] Amen. -[5407.58 --> 5408.58] Amen. -[5408.58 --> 5409.58] Amen. -[5409.58 --> 5414.58] We pray this in his name. -[5414.58 --> 5415.58] Amen. -[5415.58 --> 5416.58] Amen. -[5416.58 --> 5417.58] Amen. -[5417.58 --> 5418.58] Amen. -[5418.58 --> 5423.32] Amen. -[5423.32 --> 5424.20] Amen. -[5424.20 --> 5427.58] Amen. -[5427.58 --> 5431.78] Amen. -[5431.78 --> 5432.90] Amen. -[5432.90 --> 5433.84] Amen. -[5433.84 --> 5436.84] I see my heart -[5436.84 --> 5440.84] To praise the joy -[5441.46 --> 5444.84] I love you here -[5444.84 --> 5449.84] And praise my fear to be -[5449.84 --> 5455.84] The precious heaven -[5456.38 --> 5459.84] And praise the pure -[5459.84 --> 5465.84] Fill me out at first with me -[5465.84 --> 5469.84] When she's a God -[5469.84 --> 5473.84] I've been set free -[5473.84 --> 5476.84] My God, my Savior -[5476.84 --> 5480.84] Will transome me -[5480.84 --> 5484.84] And like a flood -[5484.84 --> 5488.84] His mercy reigns -[5488.84 --> 5491.84] Unending love -[5491.84 --> 5494.84] Amazing grace -[5494.84 --> 5500.84] The Lord has promised -[5500.84 --> 5506.84] My hope secures -[5506.84 --> 5508.84] He will my shield and worship -[5508.84 --> 5514.84] As long as I will -[5514.84 --> 5520.84] He will my hope -[5520.84 --> 5522.84] He will my shield and worship -[5522.84 --> 5524.84] As long as I will -[5524.84 --> 5530.84] He will my shield and worship -[5530.84 --> 5534.84] As long as I will -[5534.84 --> 5536.84] When I will -[5536.84 --> 5538.84] When I will -[5538.84 --> 5540.84] He will my shield and worship -[5540.84 --> 5542.84] He will my shield and worship -[5542.84 --> 5544.84] He will my shield and worship -[5544.84 --> 5550.84] He will my shield and worship -[5550.84 --> 5552.84] He will my shield and worship -[5552.84 --> 5556.84] He will my shield and worship -[5556.84 --> 5562.84] He will my shield and worship -[5562.84 --> 5566.84] He will my shield and worship -[5566.84 --> 5568.84] He will my shield and worship -[5568.84 --> 5570.84] He will my love -[5570.84 --> 5571.84] My chains are gone -[5571.84 --> 5572.84] My chains are gone -[5572.84 --> 5574.84] My unisified peace -[5574.84 --> 5578.84] My God, my Savior -[5578.84 --> 5583.20] That that's all he -[5583.20 --> 5587.02] Can make a love -[5587.02 --> 5590.84] His mercy brings -[5590.84 --> 5593.90] Unending love -[5593.90 --> 5597.76] Amazing grace -[5597.76 --> 5614.98] When we've been there -[5614.98 --> 5618.96] Ten thousand years -[5618.96 --> 5626.74] Bright shining as the sun -[5626.74 --> 5631.20] We've no less days -[5631.20 --> 5635.02] To sing God's praise -[5635.02 --> 5640.94] Than when we first begun -[5640.94 --> 5645.74] My chains are gone -[5645.74 --> 5649.42] I've been set free -[5649.42 --> 5652.62] My God, my Savior -[5652.62 --> 5656.72] Has rexed on you -[5656.72 --> 5661.18] Like a blood -[5661.18 --> 5665.00] His mercy brings -[5665.00 --> 5668.18] Unending love -[5668.18 --> 5671.18] Amazing grace -[5671.18 --> 5675.64] My chains are gone -[5675.64 --> 5680.10] I've been set free -[5680.10 --> 5683.92] My God, my Savior -[5683.92 --> 5688.38] Has rest on me -[5688.38 --> 5692.20] And like a flood -[5692.20 --> 5696.38] His mercy brings -[5696.38 --> 5700.84] Unending love -[5700.84 --> 5703.30] Amazing grace -[5703.30 --> 5705.30] Amazing grace -[5705.30 --> 5709.30] Amazing grace -[5709.30 --> 5714.30] Amazing grace -[5714.30 --> 5723.30] And so let us go from this place remembering this amazing grace, this unending love that Christ has for us. -[5723.30 --> 5727.76] Amazing grace -[5727.76 --> 5740.12] And may that exude out of us in our conversations with others in the work we do, who we do, conversations we have, the dinner tables, the breakfast tables, and as we are able to go out into this heat. -[5740.12 --> 5744.58] Now, please receive the priestly blessing. -[5744.58 --> 5746.58] It comes from Numbers 6. -[5746.58 --> 5751.04] The Lord bless you. -[5751.04 --> 5754.22] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[5754.66 --> 5758.96] The Lord turn his face toward you and grant you his peace. -[5758.96 --> 5760.74] And all God's people said. -[5760.74 --> 5760.84] Amen. -[5760.84 --> 5760.88] Amen. -[5760.88 --> 5760.96] Amen. -[5788.96 --> 5789.96] Amen. -[5789.96 --> 5793.26] She ooh, shekaaze and сил, she fus, Limited love. -[5793.26 --> 5809.54] heitِ -[5812.42 --> 5814.02] And growl 2500 -[5814.02 --> 5828.02] our god forever and ever -[5837.62 --> 5842.02] shall be -[5844.02 --> 5850.02] get -[5850.02 --> 5869.00] So дал -[5869.00 --> 5871.74] His team, God. -[5871.74 --> 5874.08] Forever and ever -[5874.08 --> 5875.90] His team, God. -[5875.90 --> 5876.86] Jesus, God. -[5876.86 --> 5879.88] Forever and ever -[5879.88 --> 5884.92] Amen! -[5885.40 --> 5886.60] His team, God. -[5886.60 --> 5889.38] Jesus, God. -[5889.38 --> 5891.60] Forever and ever -[5892.08 --> 5895.00] His team, God. -[5895.00 --> 5897.06] Forever and ever -[5897.06 --> 5903.58] O need to our God forever and ever for thanks... -[5907.96 --> 5913.08] O need to our God forever and ever -[5913.64 --> 5918.68] O need to our God forever and ever -[5919.10 --> 5924.90] O need to our God forever and ever for thanks... -[5927.06 --> 5957.04] We'll be right back. -[5957.06 --> 5987.04] We'll be right back. -[5987.06 --> 6017.04] We'll be right back. -[6017.04 --> 6047.02] We'll be right back. -[6047.04 --> 6077.02] We'll be right back. -[6077.02 --> 6107.00] We'll be right back. -[6107.00 --> 6136.98] We'll be right back. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 4, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 4, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 49e5d982a62500d0a4ab288b32ca4919409479da..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 4, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,144 +0,0 @@ -• Worship service at Langley Emanuel church -• Profession of faith and welcoming new members -• Announcements: - • Pastors' class after worship service - • HCBC (church education) meeting tonight for grades 9-12 (year-end pizza party) -• Pastor Chris introduces himself and leads in worship -• Scripture passage/ song with repetitive lyrics about God's greatness -• Emanuel women's walking group to start again on Tuesdays -• Worship service: call to worship from Psalm 89, singing of songs by kids from Langley Christian school -• Worship service continues with song "My Lighthouse", repeated several times -• Reference to God's presence and peace in troubled times -• Final section of worship service focuses on God as way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper, and light in darkness -• Repetition of a worship song's lyrics -• Reading from Acts 2:44-47 about the early church's love and sacrifice for each other -• Reflection on the Holy Spirit's role in giving that kind of love -• Praying for continued love and sacrifice among the congregation -• Praising God with music and singing -• Worship service led by Emo, a deacon in the church -• Giving of gifts for the budget and special offering to support refugees and local ministry -• Reading from Psalm 18 verse 30: "The Lord's word is flawless" -• Discussion of next week's offering for the budget and Open Doors Canada -• Music segment with song "No Place I'd Rather Be" repeated multiple times -• Invitation to set a fire in one's soul for God, seeking more of Him -• Welcoming new members into the church family through profession of faith -• Introducing Rose Vita, John, and Margaret as they make their professions of faith -• The speaker shares a personal story of how they met John and Mark at the food bank, where they were struggling with loneliness. -• They explain that John's hug and invitation to church had a profound impact on their life, making them feel like they found a new family. -• The speaker describes the experience as being "lit up" by the Holy Spirit and feeling a deep sense of love for God and Jesus. -• Mark shares how he noticed the speaker's heart was broken and invited them to church, where they began studying scripture together. -• The speaker expresses their gratitude for the support and guidance they received from John and Mark, which led to their spiritual growth. -• A pastor asks four questions regarding the speaker's faith, including their belief in Jesus Christ as the Son of God, the authority of the Bible, and their commitment to following Christ. -• The speaker answers all four questions affirmatively with the help of God. -• Welcome of new members to the church -• Presentation of a gift to John Skipper, an elder in the church -• Introduction of Leslie Stewart from Bradner Presbyterian Church, who is joining Langley Emanuel -• Affirmation of faith and commitment to God's mission by Leslie Stewart through three questions and responses -• Welcome of other individuals and families from different Christian Reformed churches into the church fellowship -• Introduction and welcome -• Promising love, encouragement, and prayers to visitors and new members -• Prayer for the church family and unity in Christ -• Invitation for children to participate in worship time -• Discussion of patience with kids, including examples and illustrations -• Patience in growing plants or waiting for results -• Importance of patience in various aspects of life -• Upcoming discussion on patience -• Prayer and blessing before discussion -• Updates on members' health: Joanne Miles, Tini Freend, Ellen White, Elise Wagner -• Recognition of new members who joined or made a profession of faith -• Reading from 2 Chronicles 7 about seeking God's face and forgiveness -• Prayers for conviction and connection with God -• Thanking God for the church, staff, music ministry team, children's worship leaders, and teachers -• Asking for guidance and help in parenting and being a good example to others -• Praying for forgiveness for being mean to loved ones -• Requesting intervention from God in personal lives and community -• Discussing Romans chapter 8 and its significance -• Introduction to Romans 8 and its significance -• The concept of new life and resurrection adoption in Romans 8 -• Being a son of God, brother of Christ, and heir of God -• The distinction between living according to the flesh or the Spirit -• The contrast between death and life, flesh and Spirit -• The role of the Spirit in giving life and leading one's life -• The obligation to live according to the Spirit rather than the flesh -• The adoption to sonship through the Holy Spirit -• The Spirit testifies that believers are God's children -• Being God's children means being heirs and co-heirs with Christ -• Suffering with Christ is necessary to share in His glory -• Receiving the Spirit gives identity as a child of God, not a slave to fear -• The Spirit brings adoption to sonship and intimacy with God (Abba) -• Christians are invited to approach God in love and affection, rather than just as Creator. -• Calling God "papa" or "daddy" is being invited to experience intimacy with God -• Some people worry that using such language shows irreverence, but it's about experiencing relationship with God -• Intimacy and respect are not mutually exclusive; both can be held together in worship of God -• For those who have negative relationships with earthly fathers, a heavenly father offers love and acceptance -• Adoption to sonship through the Holy Spirit is a real relationship between God and believers. -• The concept of sonization and its equivalent in English as adoption -• Legal exchange or change of identity through adoption -• The concept of juridical exchange in salvation -• Imputation of sin to Christ and his payment for it on the cross -• Imputation of Christ's righteousness to believers -• The concept of adoption as a form of righteousness -• Adoption to sonship in the Bible -• Primogeniture: a Greco-Roman practice where the firstborn son inherits everything from the father -• Legal provision for adopting slaves and making them natural-born sons, but with limitations (male only) -• The gospel message that all believers are adopted as sons and co-heirs with Christ -• The concept of men and women being both sons/daughters of God -• Paul's statement in Galatians 3 that there is no longer male or female in Christ Jesus -• The idea that the Spirit granting new life makes us cry out "Abba" (Father) as a unified family -• The significance of the gospel in raising the status of women to an unprecedented level in its cultural moment -• Those who may inherit the kingdom of God -• We are all sons and children of God -• There is no condemnation for us -• Our minds should be set on what the Spirit desires -• Putting to death sin in our lives -• The verse in question offers no condemnation for those who have sinned -• There is a false notion that one's sin is worse than others' -• This can lead to fear of judgment and death, but the truth is God loves all people equally -• Consequences may still occur due to actions, but there is no ultimate damnation or separation from God -• Adoption as sons and heirs with Christ brings freedom from condemnation -• The burden of needing to prove oneself to God -• Connection to Martin Luther's Reformation -• Hypersensitivity to criticism due to a lack of understanding of no condemnation in Christ Jesus -• Lack of confidence in relationships due to this misunderstanding -• Addictive behaviors rooted in guilt or unworthiness from forgetting the truth about no condemnation -• Impact on motivation and inspiration for holy living when obeying God out of fear or duty rather than love and gratitude -• Recognition of no condemnation in Christ -• Grasping the full wonder and majesty of being a son of God -• Longing to walk in holiness with God and live as He wants -• Adoption as sons through what God has given -• Struggling to move forward despite falling short -• Living according to the flesh versus living in accordance with the Spirit -• Having one's mindset on what the Spirit desires -• Setting one's mind on or being governed by what is desired -• Right thinking and right living are connected -• Relationship between cognition and behavior -• Being a son of Christ means having one's mind captivated by the things of God -• Focus on God's goodness leads to greater impact in the world -• Attitude of the mind is key, focusing on what you truly love -• What occupies your mind shapes your life -• Worship as attention: what are you giving your attention to? -• The Spirit is life and peace, and being captivated by the Spirit brings attention to God's will. -• Mortification of the body's misdeeds through the Spirit leads to life. -• The concept of mortification is described as putting sin to death in one's life. -• Verse 12-13 explain that living according to the flesh results in death, but putting sin to death through the Spirit brings life. -• Mortification means total and complete destruction of the body's sinful deeds. -• Mortification of sin is a process that requires complete surrender to God's power -• It's not about resisting sinful behavior or keeping it under control, but about getting as far away from it as possible -• Mortification remembers the gospel and applies its truth that by grace through faith we have died with Christ and been raised with him in newness of life -• The process goes deeper than just resisting sinful behavior and involves remembering our identity in Christ and living according to the gospel -• The power of Christ's resurrection and the life-giving spirit -• Mortifying sin and putting it to death -• The nature of Christian living: dying to the old and living out the new -• Jesus' sacrifice on behalf of humanity, becoming sin for us so we can become righteousness -• Being a son/daughter of God and an heir with Christ -• Living in a post-Christian world and experiencing trouble or hardship -• Suffering as a result of following Jesus -• The concept of sharing in God's sufferings and glory -• Adoption as sons and no longer being slaves, but children of God -• Prayer for spiritual filling and emboldening to go on from the place jubilant in who God is and what He has done -• Prayer for strength and nourishment regardless of the stage of one's journey of faith -• Conclusion and final amen -• Evacuation drill at a church -• Music and song lyrics about deliverance from fear and being a child of God -• Instructions to exit the building calmly and assemble at a gathering point -• Drill scenario where people are told it's only a drill, but then asked to proceed with the evacuation \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 4, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 4, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 9f3e7de4a29503edfc20589e80d545c51805ce11..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 4, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2751 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 26.36] The splendor of a king -[26.36 --> 31.52] Clothed in majesty -[31.52 --> 35.78] Let all the earth rejoice -[35.78 --> 38.66] All the earth rejoice -[38.66 --> 45.14] He wraps himself in light -[45.14 --> 50.92] And darkness tries to hide -[50.92 --> 54.12] And trembles at his voice -[54.12 --> 63.24] How great is our God -[63.24 --> 65.24] Sing with me -[65.24 --> 69.40] How great is our God -[69.40 --> 71.46] And all will see -[71.46 --> 79.12] How great, how great is our God -[79.12 --> 88.36] Age to age he stands -[88.36 --> 94.14] And time is in his hands -[94.14 --> 96.24] Beginning and the end -[96.24 --> 100.24] Beginning and the end -[100.24 --> 106.36] The God and three in one -[106.36 --> 112.48] Father, spirit and son -[112.48 --> 115.82] The lion and the lamb -[115.82 --> 119.36] The lion and the lamb -[119.36 --> 124.48] How great is our God -[124.48 --> 126.48] Sing with me -[126.48 --> 130.48] How great is our God -[130.48 --> 132.48] And all will see -[132.48 --> 136.48] How great, how great is our God -[136.48 --> 145.60] And all will see -[145.60 --> 147.60] How great is our God -[147.60 --> 149.60] And all will see -[149.60 --> 153.60] How great is our God -[153.60 --> 156.72] And all will see -[156.72 --> 158.72] My heart will see -[158.72 --> 162.72] How great is our God -[162.72 --> 163.84] As our God -[163.84 --> 165.84] As our God -[165.84 --> 167.84] As our God -[167.84 --> 171.84] You're the name above -[171.84 --> 175.08] You are worthy of our name -[175.08 --> 176.96] You are worthy of our name -[176.96 --> 178.96] You are worthy of our name -[178.96 --> 180.96] You are worthy of our praise -[180.96 --> 182.96] And all will see -[182.96 --> 184.96] And all will see -[184.96 --> 188.96] How great is our God -[188.96 --> 204.96] How great is our God -[204.96 --> 206.76] Sing with me -[206.76 --> 210.94] How great is our God -[210.94 --> 212.98] And all will see -[212.98 --> 222.98] How great -[222.98 --> 226.98] How great -[226.98 --> 228.98] Is our God -[228.98 --> 232.98] How great -[232.98 --> 236.98] Is our God -[236.98 --> 240.98] How great -[240.98 --> 244.98] Is our God -[244.98 --> 246.98] The whole world sings -[246.98 --> 248.98] The whole world -[248.98 --> 250.98] How great -[250.98 --> 252.98] Is our God -[252.98 --> 256.98] How great -[256.98 --> 258.98] Is our God -[258.98 --> 262.98] How great -[262.98 --> 264.98] How great -[264.98 --> 274.98] Is our God -[274.98 --> 284.98] How great -[284.98 --> 305.12] I love you, Lord. -[307.24 --> 311.30] Oh, your mercy never fails me. -[311.30 --> 318.76] All my days I've been held in your hands. -[319.72 --> 327.04] From the moment that I wake up until I lay my head. -[327.96 --> 333.76] For I will sing of the goodness of God. -[333.76 --> 341.84] All my life you have been faithful. -[344.72 --> 351.36] All my life you have been so, so good. -[351.36 --> 356.78] With every breath that I am never. -[358.28 --> 364.20] Oh, I will sing of the goodness of God. -[364.20 --> 368.42] I love your voice. -[370.12 --> 373.84] You will lead me through the fire. -[375.26 --> 381.20] And in darkest night, you will close like no other. -[381.20 --> 385.58] I've known you as a father. -[386.58 --> 389.48] I've known you as a prayer. -[390.42 --> 396.70] And I have lived in the goodness of God. -[396.84 --> 397.08] Yeah. -[397.08 --> 398.08] Yeah. -[400.08 --> 404.82] And all my life you have been faithful. -[406.32 --> 406.64] Oh. -[407.64 --> 414.22] And all my life you have been so, so good. -[414.22 --> 419.94] With every breath that I am never. -[420.86 --> 426.92] Oh, I will sing of the goodness of God. -[427.34 --> 427.58] Yeah. -[430.38 --> 433.84] Because your goodness is running after me. -[433.84 --> 435.86] It's running after me. -[435.86 --> 437.86] Oh -[465.86 --> 467.86] Oh -[495.86 --> 497.86] Oh -[497.86 --> 499.86] Oh -[499.86 --> 501.86] Oh -[501.86 --> 505.86] Good morning -[507.86 --> 525.86] Welcome to church this morning a special welcome if you are visiting with us my name is Chris I'm one of the pastors here at Langley Emanuel and it's my privilege to lead in worship this morning along with these others on stage we have a very special service -[525.86 --> 554.86] this morning as we are participating in a profession faith and welcoming some new members and so we're glad that you are here to celebrate with us today before we begin we've got a couple announcements to share and so first following worship this morning pastors class is happening and so that's for those of you who have sort of gone through our youth program and are now interested in making your own -[554.86 --> 571.54] profession of faith we meet after service in the multi-purpose room back there if you have any questions about that or if you're unsure just come out check it out and participate for a day and help decide we've got a group of seven or eight going right now so that's really good -[571.54 --> 584.54] and then we'll start that 15 or 20 minutes after service and so you've got enough time to connect with your friends maybe grab a coffee or tea or something and then we'll head over there -[584.54 --> 613.54] additionally there's HCBC tonight which is part of the youth education that we do here church education and you are having a special meeting tonight from six to seven and so that's not the ordinary time but HCBC six to seven because it's your year-end pizza party apparently you did well on some tests that Pastor Kevin gave you and so now you get pizza Pastor Kevin did ask me to remind you that that is for grades nine through twelve -[613.54 --> 643.52] and so it's for those who have been part of hcbc all year long that we can celebrate the work that you've put in to that class and then lastly I have an announcement from the Emanuel women's walking group that's starting up again this coming Tuesday and every Tuesday evening through the summer at 7 p.m. you can meet at Derek Doubleday Arboretum which is just down Fraser Highway right over there and then we hear all are welcome please -[643.52 --> 670.24] come and build friendships encourage each other while enjoying God's beautiful creation for more information feel free to talk to or call Fran Fran can you wave your hand thank you and Wendy can you wave your hand I'm not going to read your phone numbers out from up here but you can connect with them if you're interested in that I believe that's it for this morning so as you are able please stand together as we receive God's greeting -[673.52 --> 684.14] just as we are in the presence of our brothers and sisters in Christ God's presence is also here among us and so receive his greeting -[684.14 --> 695.64] grace mercy and peace to you from God our Father from the Lord Jesus Christ his Son and our Savior through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit -[695.64 --> 696.98] amen -[696.98 --> 703.14] as God has greeted us would you just greet those around you shake their hand do a fist bump welcome them into worship -[703.14 --> 703.64] amen -[733.14 --> 733.64] amen -[733.64 --> 755.96] our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 89 I will sing of the Lord's great love forever with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations I will declare that your love stands firm forever that you have established your faithfulness in heaven itself -[755.96 --> 757.96] amen -[757.96 --> 783.96] what I would like to do this morning I would like to ask all the kids that go to Langley Christian can you raise your hands I want to see how many there are because I picked a couple songs that I heard in chapel a couple weeks ago and they were so much fun and I thought maybe you guys can help your moms and dads sing that song so you don't have to come up front but we'd really like to hear your voices because you were celebrating who God was -[783.96 --> 789.96] who God was and how good God is to us so we're going to sing a couple songs that you should know really well -[789.96 --> 801.96] in my wrestling and in my doubts -[801.96 --> 814.96] in my -[814.96 --> 816.96] in my -[816.96 --> 818.96] in my -[818.96 --> 820.96] in my -[820.96 --> 824.96] you -[824.96 --> 826.96] your -[826.96 --> 828.96] in my -[828.96 --> 836.16] troubled sea you are the peace in my troubled sea -[837.92 --> 846.08] in my silence you won't let go in the questions your truth will hold -[846.08 --> 854.56] your great love will lead me through you are the peace in my troubled sea -[854.56 --> 857.60] you are the peace in my troubled sea -[861.52 --> 871.28] my lighthouse my lighthouse shining in the darkness i will follow you oh my lighthouse -[871.92 --> 878.48] my lighthouse i will trust the promise you will carry me safe to shore -[878.48 --> 882.80] safe to shore -[885.44 --> 886.80] safe to shore -[889.68 --> 891.04] safe to shore -[891.04 --> 906.96] i won't fear what tomorrow brings with each morning i'll rise and sing my god's love will lead me through -[906.96 --> 913.92] you are the peace in my troubled sea -[913.92 --> 920.00] my lighthouse -[920.00 --> 922.00] my lighthouse -[922.00 --> 924.00] shining in the darkness -[924.00 --> 928.00] i will follow you oh my lighthouse -[928.00 --> 931.04] my lighthouse -[931.04 --> 933.04] my lighthouse -[933.04 --> 935.04] my lighthouse -[935.04 --> 937.04] my lighthouse -[937.04 --> 939.04] my lighthouse -[939.04 --> 941.04] my lighthouse -[941.04 --> 943.04] i will trust the promise -[943.04 --> 946.96] you will carry me safe to shore -[946.96 --> 948.96] safe to shore -[948.96 --> 957.00] fire -[966.00 --> 970.00] what -[970.00 --> 982.08] us you're the brightest you will lead us through the storm far before us you're the brightest you -[982.08 --> 992.72] will lead us through the storm my lighthouse my lighthouse shining in the darkness i will follow -[992.72 --> 1002.56] you oh my lighthouse my lighthouse i will trust your promise you will carry me safe to shore -[1005.28 --> 1006.72] safe to shore -[1009.44 --> 1010.80] safe to shore -[1013.60 --> 1018.80] safe to shore -[1022.72 --> 1036.72] so -[1036.72 --> 1050.72] you are here -[1050.72 --> 1062.72] you are here moving in our midst i worship you i worship you -[1062.72 --> 1066.72] you are here -[1066.72 --> 1076.72] working in this place i worship you i worship you -[1076.72 --> 1080.72] you are here -[1080.72 --> 1082.72] you are here -[1082.72 --> 1090.72] moving in our midst i worship you i worship you -[1090.72 --> 1092.72] you are here -[1092.72 --> 1100.72] working in this place i worship you i worship you -[1100.72 --> 1104.72] i worship you you are -[1104.72 --> 1106.72] you are -[1106.72 --> 1114.72] way maker miracle worker promise keeper light in the darkness my god that is who you are -[1114.72 --> 1116.72] you are -[1116.72 --> 1118.72] you are -[1118.72 --> 1128.72] way maker miracle worker promise keeper light in the darkness my god that is who you are -[1128.72 --> 1130.72] you are -[1130.72 --> 1132.72] you are -[1132.72 --> 1134.72] you are here -[1134.72 --> 1136.72] touching every heart -[1136.72 --> 1138.72] i worship you -[1138.72 --> 1140.72] i worship you -[1140.72 --> 1142.72] i worship you -[1142.72 --> 1144.72] you are here -[1144.72 --> 1146.72] you are here -[1146.72 --> 1150.72] healing every heart -[1150.72 --> 1156.72] i worship you i worship you -[1156.72 --> 1158.72] you are here -[1158.72 --> 1160.72] you are here -[1160.72 --> 1162.72] turning lives around -[1162.72 --> 1168.72] i worship you i worship you -[1168.72 --> 1170.72] you are here -[1170.72 --> 1172.72] turning lives around -[1172.72 --> 1174.72] i worship you i worship you you are here -[1174.72 --> 1176.72] you are here -[1176.72 --> 1180.72] i worship you i worship you you are -[1180.72 --> 1182.72] you are -[1182.72 --> 1184.72] you are -[1184.72 --> 1188.72] way maker miracle worker promise keeper light in the darkness my god that is who you are you are -[1188.72 --> 1194.72] you are -[1194.72 --> 1196.72] you are -[1196.72 --> 1198.72] you are -[1198.72 --> 1206.72] way maker miracle worker promise keeper light in the darkness my god that is who you are -[1206.72 --> 1208.72] your -[1208.72 --> 1214.72] that it -[1214.72 --> 1216.72] you -[1216.72 --> 1220.72] that it -[1220.72 --> 1222.72] you -[1222.72 --> 1226.72] you -[1226.72 --> 1228.72] that -[1230.72 --> 1232.72] you -[1232.72 --> 1248.96] Even I don't see What Caroline -[1248.96 --> 1251.44] still speaking -[1251.44 --> 1261.44] When I don't feel it, you're working. You never stop, you never stop working. You never stop, you never stop working. -[1261.44 --> 1274.44] Waymaker, miracle worker, promise keeper, light in the darkness, my God, that is who you are. You are. -[1274.44 --> 1297.44] Waymaker, miracle worker, promise keeper, light in the darkness, my God, that is who you are. That is who you are. That is who you are. That is who you are. -[1301.44 --> 1302.56] You may be seated. -[1304.44 --> 1317.70] I picked a piece in Acts, just reflecting back on Pentecost, and Acts 2, 44 to 47. -[1318.30 --> 1324.68] In the midst of all the miracles and wonders that the apostles were doing, this is what we read. -[1324.90 --> 1332.46] All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold properties and possessions to give to anyone who had need. -[1332.46 --> 1336.60] Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. -[1337.42 --> 1345.94] They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. -[1345.94 --> 1350.38] And the Lord added to their numbers daily, those who were being saved. -[1350.38 --> 1366.58] When I read that, when I see that kind of love that the early church had, it made me look and see that it's what a foundation, I think, of love and sacrifice to each other looks like, -[1366.58 --> 1370.58] in a depth that only the Holy Spirit can give. -[1370.58 --> 1374.58] I think Doreen and I have experienced that here in Emmanuel as well. -[1374.58 --> 1381.58] A loving and sacrificing for each other, rooted in the love that only the Spirit can give. -[1381.58 --> 1391.24] And I pray that as we continue in God's love, that he will help us to love those that he brings our way. -[1392.20 --> 1393.46] Let's bow our heads. -[1395.64 --> 1400.08] Father, we don't want to miss your love. -[1400.08 --> 1406.80] Help us see through the counterfeit the world entices us with. -[1407.88 --> 1414.14] Our first century brothers and sisters loved each other with a love only you could place in their hearts. -[1415.42 --> 1423.40] Lord, will you continue to soften our hearts so we too can reflect your love to each other. -[1423.40 --> 1431.38] And through the power of your Spirit, help us move within the power of your sacrificial love. -[1431.90 --> 1434.06] To the praise of your glorious name. -[1434.60 --> 1434.86] Amen. -[1435.62 --> 1438.04] Why don't we rise as we sing a couple more songs. -[1453.40 --> 1471.22] Everyone needs compassion. -[1472.22 --> 1474.64] Love that's never failing. -[1476.52 --> 1481.40] Let mercy fall on me. -[1481.40 --> 1484.30] Everyone needs forgiveness. -[1485.44 --> 1487.72] The kindness of the Savior. -[1489.72 --> 1493.26] The hope of patience. -[1499.90 --> 1504.32] Savior, you can live the mountains. -[1505.06 --> 1508.24] My God is mighty to save. -[1508.58 --> 1511.38] He is mighty to save. -[1511.40 --> 1512.68] Forever. -[1512.68 --> 1512.72] Forever. -[1512.72 --> 1513.30] Forever. -[1513.30 --> 1516.50] Author of salvation. -[1517.50 --> 1520.74] He rose and conquered the grave. -[1521.08 --> 1523.76] Jesus conquered the grave. -[1523.76 --> 1524.04] Jesus conquered the grave. -[1524.04 --> 1524.70] Jesus conquered the grave. -[1538.26 --> 1541.82] So take me as you find me. -[1541.82 --> 1544.72] All my fears and failures. -[1544.72 --> 1551.08] And fill my life again -[1551.08 --> 1554.22] I give my life to follow -[1554.22 --> 1558.44] Everything I believe in -[1558.44 --> 1562.32] Now I surrender -[1562.32 --> 1573.52] Savior, He came through the mountains -[1573.52 --> 1577.14] My God is mighty to save -[1577.14 --> 1580.48] He is mighty to save -[1580.48 --> 1585.16] Forever, author of salvation -[1585.16 --> 1589.30] He rose and conquered the grave -[1589.30 --> 1593.26] Jesus conquered the grave -[1593.26 --> 1598.06] Shine a light and let the whole world sing -[1598.06 --> 1604.52] We're singing for the glory of the risen King -[1604.52 --> 1610.26] Jesus, shine a light and let the whole world sing -[1610.26 --> 1615.68] We're singing for the glory of the risen King -[1615.68 --> 1622.52] Savior, He can move the mountains -[1622.52 --> 1626.24] My God is mighty to save -[1626.24 --> 1629.84] He is mighty to save -[1629.84 --> 1634.48] Forever, author of salvation -[1634.48 --> 1638.64] He rose and conquered the grave -[1638.64 --> 1642.26] Jesus conquered the grave -[1642.26 --> 1647.30] Savior, He came through the mountains -[1647.30 --> 1651.00] My God is mighty to save -[1651.00 --> 1654.26] He is mighty to save -[1654.26 --> 1659.30] Forever, author of salvation -[1659.30 --> 1663.52] He rose and conquered the grave -[1663.52 --> 1667.14] Jesus conquered the grave -[1667.14 --> 1669.14] Jesus conquered the grave -[1669.14 --> 1674.68] He is mighty to save -[1674.68 --> 1676.40] He died and progressed in his hand -[1676.40 --> 1676.90] Therefore, his blessed von hammam -[1676.90 --> 1678.90] Jesus conquered the grave -[1678.90 --> 1679.34] National enthusiasm -[1679.34 --> 1681.10] Song nach -[1681.10 --> 1682.04] He died -[1682.04 --> 1683.36] He Zahl -[1683.36 --> 1686.60] As the first version -[1686.60 --> 1689.60] The present version -[1689.60 --> 1691.36] Above 1 in the afterlife -[1691.36 --> 1706.46] We are a moment, you are forever. -[1706.46 --> 1713.46] Lord of the ages, God before time. -[1714.56 --> 1720.42] We are a favor, you are eternal. -[1720.42 --> 1729.58] Love everlasting, reigning on high. -[1730.04 --> 1735.52] Holy, holy, Lord God almighty. -[1736.92 --> 1743.60] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain. -[1743.60 --> 1749.80] Highest praises, honor and glory. -[1750.42 --> 1755.58] Be unto your name. -[1757.58 --> 1761.58] Be unto your name. -[1764.58 --> 1766.96] We are the broken. -[1767.96 --> 1770.86] You are the healer. -[1770.86 --> 1777.02] Jesus, Redeemer, mighty to save. -[1778.02 --> 1781.30] You are a love song. -[1781.72 --> 1784.10] We'll sing forever. -[1785.14 --> 1788.02] Bowing before you. -[1788.02 --> 1791.18] Blessing your name. -[1791.18 --> 1793.18] Blessing your name. -[1793.18 --> 1799.26] Holy, holy, Lord God almighty. -[1799.26 --> 1806.42] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain. -[1806.42 --> 1813.58] Highest praises, honor and glory. -[1813.58 --> 1818.74] Be unto your name. -[1818.74 --> 1820.74] Be unto your name. -[1820.74 --> 1824.74] Be unto your name. -[1824.74 --> 1825.40] Be unto your name. -[1825.40 --> 1825.74] Be unto your name. -[1825.74 --> 1831.56] Holy, holy, Lord God almighty. -[1831.56 --> 1832.88] Lord God almighty. -[1832.90 --> 1838.90] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain. -[1838.90 --> 1846.06] Highest praises, honor and glory. -[1846.06 --> 1848.06] Be unto your name. -[1848.06 --> 1849.72] Be unto your name. -[1849.72 --> 1852.40] Be unto your name. -[1852.40 --> 1859.40] Be unto your name -[1859.40 --> 1865.40] Be unto your name -[1865.40 --> 1868.48] Be invited, be seated. -[1882.40 --> 1889.40] Be seated. -[1889.40 --> 1893.40] Good morning. My name is Emo and I'm a deacon in the church. -[1893.40 --> 1897.40] We continue our worship this morning with the giving of our gifts. -[1897.40 --> 1903.40] First of all for the budget which covers the administration of the church and its ministries -[1903.40 --> 1911.40] and the special offering which is for the chaplain and refugee support mobilizer -[1911.40 --> 1915.40] who is locally Dina Nikolai. -[1915.40 --> 1920.40] She ministers out of the First Christian Reformed Church of Vancouver -[1920.40 --> 1937.40] and her role is to provide a ministry of presence and neighborhood welcome for refugees during the time they are living at or accessing services at the Immigrant Service Society of BC Welcome Center -[1937.40 --> 1949.40] to support their integration into the communities into which they are moving and mobilize local congregations to partner in this integration support. -[1949.40 --> 1953.40] As for God, His way is perfect. -[1953.40 --> 1955.40] The Lord's word is flawless. -[1955.40 --> 1958.40] He shields all who take refuge in Him. -[1958.40 --> 1961.40] Psalm 18 verse 30. -[1961.40 --> 1966.40] Next week's offering is for the budget and Open Doors Canada. -[1966.40 --> 1977.40] מה is uniquementだ -[1977.40 --> 1979.40] It's all part of the public, most of us in the SYCAVs that would control the Ohio River and the Pontiac community. -[1979.40 --> 1981.40] What do we do are the major need to support our leaders when providing aid? -[1981.40 --> 1994.32] No place I'd rather be -[1994.32 --> 1998.28] No place I'd rather be -[1998.28 --> 2002.54] Than here in your love, here in your love -[2002.54 --> 2006.20] No place I'd rather be -[2006.20 --> 2010.34] No place I'd rather be -[2010.34 --> 2014.18] No place I'd rather be -[2014.18 --> 2018.66] Than here in your love, here in your love -[2018.66 --> 2022.84] So set a fire down in my soul -[2022.84 --> 2026.86] That I can't contain, that I can't control -[2026.86 --> 2030.70] I want more of you, God -[2030.70 --> 2034.74] I want more of you, God -[2034.74 --> 2038.94] So set a fire down in my soul -[2038.94 --> 2042.78] That I can't contain, that I can't control -[2042.78 --> 2046.62] I want more of you, God -[2046.62 --> 2050.46] I want more of you, God -[2050.46 --> 2056.30] No place I'd rather be -[2056.30 --> 2070.14] No place I'd rather be -[2070.14 --> 2074.08] No place I'd rather be -[2074.08 --> 2077.96] No place I'd rather be -[2077.96 --> 2082.46] Than here in your love, here in your love -[2082.46 --> 2086.30] I want more of you, God -[2086.30 --> 2088.30] So set a fire down in my soul -[2088.30 --> 2090.78] That I can't contain, that I can't control -[2090.78 --> 2098.68] I want more of you God, and I want more of you God. -[2099.42 --> 2106.94] So set a fire down in my soul that I can contain, that I can control. -[2107.56 --> 2114.78] I want more of you God, and I want more of you God. -[2120.78 --> 2150.76] I want more of you God. -[2150.76 --> 2163.98] We are really excited to welcome a number of people into a full covenant and familial relationship with our church here at Emmanuel. -[2164.56 --> 2170.14] Some of the people that we are welcoming this morning are new believers who were baptized as infants, -[2170.28 --> 2176.82] but have come to a personal faith and relationship to Jesus for the first time in these last months. -[2176.82 --> 2185.98] Some are joining our church family from other churches in the region, and others are transferring from other Christian Reformed churches. -[2187.12 --> 2191.30] To begin, we're going to welcome Rose Vita to the front. -[2191.72 --> 2195.28] And John and Margaret, are you both coming up with her? -[2195.28 --> 2205.56] As Rose Vita makes her way to the front, all the way back in her baptism as an infant, God extended a promise to her. -[2206.26 --> 2212.20] Today, she makes that promise real by professing a faith that she has made her own. -[2212.20 --> 2219.10] We're going to hear a little bit of Rose Vita's story from her, and then a little bit from John and Margaret as well, -[2219.24 --> 2222.04] before we go forward with our profession of faith. -[2222.04 --> 2227.78] Good morning. -[2231.78 --> 2244.24] I met John about three, almost four months ago, and it was one of the lowest days of my life. -[2244.24 --> 2260.10] And he just read it all over me, and he came up to me, and he asked how I was doing, and he asked me if I wanted a hug. -[2260.76 --> 2269.06] And he just gave me this hug that was just electric, like the energy that came through that hug. -[2269.06 --> 2275.74] It just lit me right up, and then he invited me to church. -[2276.46 --> 2288.20] And when I walked in, it was like I was home, and that I had a new family. -[2288.20 --> 2308.08] And my whole body was just shaking inside, and I was crying with elation just from the movement of the Holy Spirit and the love of God and Jesus. -[2308.84 --> 2314.52] And I was a changed person after that. -[2314.52 --> 2319.40] And I'm going to start crying again, but with happiness. -[2319.92 --> 2328.96] I'm just such a different person because of this wonderful experience. -[2328.96 --> 2347.78] And I'm just looking forward to every day sharing, embracing the love of God and Jesus and sharing his words and getting to know more people. -[2347.78 --> 2355.92] I wrote down from Psalms, just what sums it up. -[2357.06 --> 2365.76] I will say of the Lord, he is my refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust. -[2366.50 --> 2368.00] I am home. -[2368.98 --> 2370.04] And that sums it up. -[2370.74 --> 2371.20] Thank you. -[2377.78 --> 2381.36] Boy, how do I follow up with that? -[2384.54 --> 2384.98] Yeah. -[2385.40 --> 2388.42] Like, yeah, that day, yeah, we were at the food bank. -[2388.84 --> 2394.56] And I remember seeing you for the first time, and I helped you there. -[2394.98 --> 2400.62] And I just knew that I could see it, that your heart was broken. -[2400.62 --> 2408.96] And so, yeah, we started a conversation, and you told me a bit of your life story. -[2410.00 --> 2413.02] Like, you lost your parents, your siblings were gone. -[2413.96 --> 2415.96] You had no children, so you felt so lonely. -[2416.44 --> 2421.38] And I remember saying to you, I remember clearly saying to you at that time, -[2422.06 --> 2423.82] Rose Vita, you need a family so bad. -[2425.00 --> 2426.86] And I knew just the family she needed. -[2426.86 --> 2431.56] And that's when I invited you to church, that Sunday. -[2432.06 --> 2441.28] And, yeah, Margo and I have just been watching you like a sponge, just soaking it all in. -[2441.40 --> 2443.58] Like the gospel was just speaking to you. -[2444.34 --> 2448.10] You loved all the songs that we sang, and you loved the fellowship here. -[2449.10 --> 2452.14] And as the weeks went by, you just kept growing and growing. -[2452.14 --> 2457.14] And I kept telling you the whole time, man, the Spirit is doing a great job. -[2457.34 --> 2459.32] And he's working in you like so bad. -[2459.46 --> 2461.02] It's so exciting to watch. -[2462.06 --> 2467.60] And anyway, I could say a whole lot more. -[2467.92 --> 2471.46] But, yeah, we shared the gospel together. -[2471.46 --> 2478.94] We studied certain passages, and that passage you just read, that was the very first passage I gave to you. -[2479.32 --> 2483.08] And, yeah, I said, yeah, keep that in your heart always. -[2483.60 --> 2485.70] So, anyway, that's it. -[2485.70 --> 2492.38] Thank you, John and Mark. -[2492.42 --> 2495.50] You guys can, if you want to just sit here for a minute. -[2495.66 --> 2497.96] Well, Roseveed, I'm going to ask you a few questions before you go sit. -[2501.56 --> 2504.58] So, when we do Professions of Faith here, we start this way. -[2504.78 --> 2509.22] Because it's so good for us to hear stories of God at work in the world. -[2510.08 --> 2510.30] Right? -[2510.30 --> 2514.04] For some of us, we haven't seen that happen in so long. -[2514.54 --> 2517.34] This is such a good reminder. -[2517.54 --> 2524.28] And so, we are encouraged by your story, your testimony, and by the fact that we get to share that with you this morning. -[2524.94 --> 2527.60] I'm going to ask you four questions. -[2528.24 --> 2531.58] And then at the end of the questions, I'll invite you to give one answer for all four. -[2532.00 --> 2534.54] You can say, I do with God's help. -[2535.00 --> 2536.48] With God's love and God's help. -[2536.62 --> 2537.42] All of the above. -[2537.42 --> 2541.76] Here, and I'll give you this so everyone can hear your answer. -[2543.32 --> 2543.76] Roseveeda. -[2544.72 --> 2549.00] Do you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God sent to redeem the world? -[2549.72 --> 2553.64] Do you love and trust Him as the one who saves you from your sin? -[2553.94 --> 2557.68] And do you, with repentance and joy, embrace Him as the Lord of your life? -[2558.68 --> 2558.96] Two. -[2559.62 --> 2563.86] Do you believe that the Bible is the Word of God revealing Christ and His redemption? -[2563.86 --> 2568.28] And that the confessions of this church faithfully reflect this revelation? -[2569.44 --> 2569.62] Three. -[2570.36 --> 2574.58] Do you accept the gracious promises of God sealed to you in your baptism? -[2574.96 --> 2580.16] And do you affirm your union with Christ and His church, which your baptism signifies? -[2580.92 --> 2581.44] And four. -[2581.44 --> 2588.78] Do you promise to do all that you can with the help of the Holy Spirit to strengthen your love and commitment to Christ -[2588.78 --> 2595.04] by sharing faithfully in the life of this church family, honoring and submitting to its authority? -[2595.04 --> 2600.66] And do you join with the people of God in doing the work of the Lord everywhere? -[2601.28 --> 2602.76] Roseveeda, what is your answer? -[2603.48 --> 2605.12] I do with God's help. -[2605.58 --> 2605.88] Amen. -[2606.92 --> 2607.44] Amen. -[2607.44 --> 2607.64] Amen. -[2607.64 --> 2607.68] Amen. -[2607.68 --> 2607.70] Amen. -[2607.70 --> 2607.74] Amen. -[2607.74 --> 2607.76] Amen. -[2607.76 --> 2607.84] Amen. -[2611.44 --> 2612.00] Amen. -[2614.00 --> 2614.12] Amen. -[2614.12 --> 2614.36] Amen. -[2622.36 --> 2624.30] Amen. -[2631.30 --> 2635.32] Amen. -[2635.32 --> 2636.30] Amen. -[2636.30 --> 2636.76] Amen. -[2636.76 --> 2637.74] Amen. -[2637.76 --> 2640.36] Amen. -[2640.36 --> 2640.92] Amen. -[2640.94 --> 2641.38] Amen. -[2641.38 --> 2641.40] Amen. -[2641.40 --> 2641.42] Amen. -[2641.42 --> 2645.68] and may he work in you what is pleasing to him through Jesus Christ, -[2645.78 --> 2648.32] to whom be glory forever and ever. -[2648.62 --> 2649.48] All God's people said? -[2650.26 --> 2650.74] Amen. -[2651.64 --> 2653.92] I want to invite John Skipper to come to the front. -[2654.02 --> 2655.72] He's an elder in our church. -[2655.78 --> 2658.22] We have a little gift to mark this day for you. -[2671.42 --> 2673.96] Excellent. Now you may have a seat for just a few moments. -[2677.78 --> 2682.04] We also want to take some time this morning to welcome a few others -[2682.04 --> 2684.40] who are coming to us from different area churches. -[2684.68 --> 2686.94] And so, Leslie, are you here? -[2689.00 --> 2691.34] There you are. Excellent. Come on to the front, Leslie. -[2691.34 --> 2691.44] Leslie. -[2694.64 --> 2699.18] Leslie Stewart comes to us from Bradner Presbyterian Church -[2699.18 --> 2702.60] and actually first connected with us here at Emanuel -[2702.60 --> 2704.38] through the Coffee Break ministry. -[2705.16 --> 2709.34] She's been participating in that ministry for coming on the year now, right? -[2710.02 --> 2712.58] Six months. Yeah, feels like a year sometimes, right? -[2714.00 --> 2717.62] And then has been worshiping with us for these past few months as well. -[2718.54 --> 2723.20] Leslie, it is our hope and prayer that your faith in God will be strengthened, -[2723.48 --> 2725.62] that your love for Jesus will be grown, -[2725.62 --> 2729.62] and that here you will find opportunity to serve in the Spirit -[2729.62 --> 2733.40] as you join with us on mission with God to the community. -[2734.04 --> 2737.02] As we welcome you into this church family, similarly, -[2737.24 --> 2740.04] we're going to ask you to affirm the faith that you have professed -[2740.56 --> 2743.96] and your commitment to God's mission in and through Langley Emanuel -[2743.96 --> 2747.42] to our city, to our region, and to the world. -[2747.90 --> 2750.24] And so to do so, I'm going to ask you three questions -[2750.24 --> 2754.14] and then invite you to give the same response I do with God's help. -[2759.46 --> 2763.16] So Leslie, do you believe in Jesus as your Savior and Lord -[2763.16 --> 2767.22] and that in Him only is hope and freedom from sin found? -[2768.22 --> 2770.78] Do you believe that the Bible is the Word of God -[2770.78 --> 2773.76] revealing His plan for redemption in Jesus Christ? -[2774.26 --> 2778.32] The preaching and teaching of this church, Langley Emanuel, reflect that truth. -[2778.32 --> 2782.30] And then three, do you promise with the help of the Holy Spirit -[2782.30 --> 2785.38] to do all you can to strengthen your relationship to Jesus -[2785.38 --> 2788.14] by being a part of the life of this church, -[2788.62 --> 2790.48] recognizing its oversight and authority -[2790.48 --> 2793.98] and joining with us on mission for Jesus in this community, -[2794.28 --> 2796.26] in this city, and to the world? -[2796.90 --> 2798.42] Leslie, what is your answer? -[2798.86 --> 2800.04] I do with God's help. -[2800.66 --> 2801.78] Amen. Amen. -[2802.66 --> 2804.92] I'm just going to get you to stand over here for just a moment. -[2804.92 --> 2805.08] Thank you. -[2808.32 --> 2813.90] And now we also want to welcome into our church fellowship -[2813.90 --> 2815.74] some people who have come to us, -[2816.06 --> 2818.08] some who have been here for a little while now, -[2818.20 --> 2820.02] from other Christian Reformed churches. -[2820.54 --> 2823.70] And so I'm going to invite Tim and Janet to come forward -[2823.70 --> 2826.04] and if your kids are here with you, -[2827.00 --> 2828.18] Tim and Janet, are you here? -[2828.32 --> 2828.88] There we go. -[2829.38 --> 2831.34] Ryan, Micah, and Casey, if you're all here, -[2831.34 --> 2833.60] if only a few of you are here, just come on up. -[2833.60 --> 2838.06] And then as well, Angela Wolfe up to the front. -[2839.70 --> 2841.62] I don't think Miranda's here with you today. -[2841.76 --> 2841.92] No. -[2843.76 --> 2847.34] So the Van Hemerts come to us from Willoughby CRC -[2847.34 --> 2850.88] and Angela comes to us from New West CRC. -[2851.58 --> 2854.72] We are grateful that you also are with us -[2854.72 --> 2859.60] and we are excited to see what God will do in our midst through you. -[2859.60 --> 2863.74] Our prayer is that you will join our shared mission and ministry -[2863.74 --> 2866.92] as a church family and in some cases as you already have, -[2867.12 --> 2868.14] and we're grateful for that, -[2868.52 --> 2871.30] by serving God in Murrayville, Langley, and beyond -[2871.30 --> 2873.68] and by together proclaiming his gospel, -[2873.96 --> 2877.34] revealing his kingdom come and his kingdom coming. -[2877.72 --> 2878.98] Thank you for being with us. -[2879.44 --> 2882.74] Our prayer is that you will find the love of God here. -[2883.24 --> 2884.24] Let's welcome them together. -[2884.24 --> 2893.88] And now, congregation, I'm going to invite you -[2893.88 --> 2897.76] to have a chance to promise your blessing and support too. -[2897.92 --> 2900.36] And so, Rosita, if you're able, can you just join us up front? -[2901.40 --> 2904.94] That way everyone can see, but more importantly, you can see them. -[2905.88 --> 2907.50] And so, congregation, I'm going to invite you to stand, -[2907.60 --> 2910.54] if you're able, and to answer this question -[2910.54 --> 2914.06] we do with God's help. -[2915.22 --> 2918.56] Church family of Langley, Emanuel, people of God gathered here, -[2918.72 --> 2920.78] seeing all these people in front of you -[2920.78 --> 2924.38] and hearing in them stories of God's faithfulness, -[2924.46 --> 2926.38] I invite you to answer this question -[2926.38 --> 2929.22] in response to God's call. -[2929.90 --> 2931.24] Do you, people of God, -[2931.40 --> 2934.26] promise all these wonderful people up here -[2934.26 --> 2937.02] your love, encouragement, and prayers? -[2937.02 --> 2938.02] Amen. -[2941.48 --> 2941.80] Amen. -[2942.10 --> 2943.04] Go ahead and have a seat. -[2943.90 --> 2945.76] I'm going to invite Pastor Kevin to come up to the front. -[2946.56 --> 2948.18] He's going to pray over you guys. -[2948.96 --> 2950.88] I'm also going to invite elders, -[2951.54 --> 2954.06] church members, family, friends -[2954.06 --> 2956.10] who are here and want to lay hands on -[2956.10 --> 2957.02] during this time. -[2957.56 --> 2959.30] You're encouraged to do that. -[2960.02 --> 2961.44] So gather up and around, -[2961.64 --> 2963.30] pick someone, put your hand on them. -[2964.14 --> 2965.82] Pastor Kevin is going to pray. -[2965.82 --> 2984.20] Let's bow our heads. -[2985.56 --> 2988.56] Father in heaven, what a beautiful day it is today. -[2988.86 --> 2991.54] We thank you for your church family, Lord, -[2991.60 --> 2993.66] and we thank you that you have called us all -[2993.66 --> 2995.96] to be the body of Christ, brothers and sisters -[2995.96 --> 2999.60] who declare your name and proclaim it to the nations. -[3000.04 --> 3003.64] Lord, we thank you for these wonderful people -[3003.64 --> 3005.52] who stood up here, for Rosvita, -[3006.08 --> 3008.92] proclaiming your name, professing her faith in you, -[3008.98 --> 3012.56] and joining the body, joining her new family -[3012.56 --> 3014.98] in front of all of those gathered here today -[3014.98 --> 3015.92] and in front of your spirit. -[3016.46 --> 3018.96] We thank you for Leslie and for Angela -[3018.96 --> 3020.94] and for the Van Hemert family as well, God, -[3021.02 --> 3023.88] who are part of this family as well. -[3024.52 --> 3026.36] And Lord, as we go forward from here, -[3027.46 --> 3029.28] unified in the body of Christ, -[3030.38 --> 3032.90] may we all discern your spirit -[3032.90 --> 3037.18] and may we all be encouraged and convicted -[3037.18 --> 3039.54] to be there for one another, -[3039.84 --> 3041.18] to pray for one another, -[3041.44 --> 3043.10] to lift up one another, -[3043.10 --> 3047.02] and to proclaim your name to the community around us. -[3048.54 --> 3050.10] God, we thank you for the church. -[3052.10 --> 3053.32] We pray this in your name. -[3053.66 --> 3053.86] Amen. -[3073.10 --> 3077.72] At this time, I'd like to invite all the children up -[3077.72 --> 3079.00] for children's worship time. -[3095.16 --> 3097.14] Good morning, kids. -[3098.38 --> 3099.70] I'm going to say good morning again. -[3099.80 --> 3100.96] You guys are going to say good morning back, -[3101.02 --> 3101.90] but nice and loud, right? -[3102.30 --> 3102.98] Good morning. -[3103.38 --> 3104.12] Good morning. -[3104.56 --> 3104.92] Nice. -[3105.68 --> 3107.14] This morning, we're going to talk, -[3107.20 --> 3108.30] we're talking about patience. -[3108.46 --> 3110.32] Does anyone in this group right here -[3110.32 --> 3111.94] know anything about the word patience? -[3112.30 --> 3113.02] Do you know what it means? -[3113.16 --> 3113.70] What do you think? -[3116.20 --> 3117.70] Waiting for your turn to do something? -[3117.84 --> 3118.42] Yeah, how about you? -[3119.76 --> 3120.04] Waiting. -[3120.50 --> 3121.24] Anybody else? -[3126.92 --> 3128.48] Waiting to go to a good fancy party. -[3128.58 --> 3128.98] That's true. -[3129.92 --> 3131.32] If you could put the first slide up. -[3131.32 --> 3132.56] I got a couple pictures up here. -[3132.56 --> 3134.20] Does anybody know what that thing is? -[3134.20 --> 3137.24] So do you have to have a little bit of patience -[3137.24 --> 3139.56] when you watch the sand go through that? -[3140.12 --> 3141.84] Sometimes it can be a long time, -[3142.06 --> 3143.28] and you have to be really patient. -[3143.78 --> 3144.60] How about the next one? -[3144.60 --> 3145.84] Oh. -[3145.84 --> 3149.08] Anybody have like an iPad or something like that, -[3149.08 --> 3149.86] and you're waiting, -[3150.00 --> 3151.44] and that thing, the battery went dead, -[3151.46 --> 3152.18] and you got to wait? -[3152.76 --> 3153.82] Does that feel like forever? -[3153.94 --> 3154.76] Or your watch? -[3156.20 --> 3157.06] Sometimes it's fast. -[3157.06 --> 3157.84] How about the next one? -[3157.84 --> 3157.86] How about the next one? -[3158.90 --> 3159.24] Oh. -[3159.34 --> 3161.74] What if you had to ride a snail somewhere? -[3161.98 --> 3164.02] Would that take a lot of patience getting somewhere? -[3164.56 --> 3164.92] Yeah. -[3165.64 --> 3166.74] How about the next one? -[3167.70 --> 3168.10] Puzzles. -[3168.74 --> 3170.16] Do puzzles take patience? -[3170.86 --> 3171.22] Yeah. -[3171.88 --> 3174.16] And the last one is, oh. -[3174.32 --> 3175.86] How about a plant to grow? -[3176.24 --> 3177.58] Maybe you got a garden at home, -[3177.64 --> 3178.80] and you're trying to grow some vegetables, -[3178.92 --> 3180.64] and sometimes it feels like it takes forever. -[3180.64 --> 3181.04] Yeah. -[3182.70 --> 3183.06] Yeah. -[3183.22 --> 3184.10] You got to have a lot of patience. -[3184.36 --> 3187.86] So today we're going to talk about patience in the back there, -[3188.00 --> 3189.20] but before we do that, -[3189.26 --> 3190.58] we're going to stand up and do the blessing. -[3190.70 --> 3191.20] Can we do that? -[3191.62 --> 3192.42] Where is that? -[3192.70 --> 3193.02] Puppet. -[3193.60 --> 3194.76] You can follow everybody. -[3194.98 --> 3195.30] Yeah. -[3195.66 --> 3196.28] Ready, guys? -[3196.44 --> 3197.04] Where's the puppet? -[3197.96 --> 3198.48] The. -[3199.32 --> 3200.90] Lord be with you. -[3201.44 --> 3202.70] And also with you. -[3210.64 --> 3240.62] Thank you. -[3240.64 --> 3241.26] Thank you. -[3245.08 --> 3247.86] Before I lead you in prayer, -[3247.98 --> 3251.22] I just want to go over some notes I have. -[3252.06 --> 3256.68] I prefer to mention people's names and issues we pray for -[3256.68 --> 3259.46] rather than having my eyes open when I pray. -[3259.60 --> 3261.82] I guess at a young age I was taught -[3261.82 --> 3263.66] that you should close your eyes when you pray. -[3263.98 --> 3266.62] So that's what I do most of the time. -[3266.62 --> 3267.62] Thank you. -[3267.62 --> 3268.62] Thank you. -[3268.62 --> 3271.84] An update from Joanne Miles' mom this morning. -[3272.00 --> 3273.86] Joanne said she's doing better, -[3274.86 --> 3276.34] so we're thankful for that. -[3276.34 --> 3281.54] Tini Freend, mother of Brenda, Linda, and Jody, -[3281.64 --> 3285.60] and I understand Jody and her son is here. -[3286.72 --> 3287.66] So welcome. -[3288.32 --> 3292.80] Tini has continues to recover from her infection, -[3292.80 --> 3295.34] and we praise God for answered prayer, -[3295.54 --> 3297.56] but she is not out of the woods yet. -[3299.38 --> 3302.60] Ellen White is in Delta Hospital recovering from a fall, -[3302.60 --> 3308.08] and it was found out yesterday that she could be there for six to seven weeks. -[3308.36 --> 3311.22] Initially, the thought was five or six days. -[3311.66 --> 3314.78] So please continue to pray for Ellen. -[3314.78 --> 3319.34] Also, Elise Wagner, she's going through tests and treatments, -[3319.96 --> 3321.08] and pray for full healing. -[3322.60 --> 3329.48] And I want to just focus on the members who just joined or did profession of faith. -[3330.46 --> 3333.06] And Rose Vita, I'm going to leave you for last, if that's okay. -[3333.06 --> 3340.70] Leslie Stewart, Tim, Janet, Vern Hemert, and their children, Angela and their children. -[3341.74 --> 3348.80] Tim, your father was a Maine pastor, I guess you would call it. -[3348.94 --> 3353.58] He used to say he had many good clients in Glen Valley, -[3353.68 --> 3356.02] and I was one of the clients in Glen Valley. -[3356.02 --> 3364.68] And his prayers and his patience and his sharing was just awesome. -[3365.96 --> 3368.62] Rose Vita, welcome to us. -[3370.68 --> 3372.04] Today is a high. -[3373.62 --> 3377.80] Maybe tomorrow is not as high, but God is always there. -[3378.34 --> 3379.90] Jesus is always there. -[3380.48 --> 3384.02] Always can reach out to them, always listening, and that's so awesome. -[3386.02 --> 3388.04] Okay, shall we... -[3388.04 --> 3388.86] Oh, one more thing. -[3390.10 --> 3394.72] I had my Bible already, which I prepared yesterday, -[3395.28 --> 3397.90] and then on my way out the door I forgot it. -[3398.38 --> 3402.16] So this is a passage I wanted to share. -[3403.36 --> 3409.06] It's the dedication of the temple in Solomon's day, the temple he had built. -[3409.06 --> 3413.34] And that evening, that night, God came to Solomon. -[3414.48 --> 3419.10] And then he said, it's verse 14, 2 Chronicles 7. -[3419.70 --> 3423.52] So if you want to read the entire chapter, it's probably a good idea today. -[3423.62 --> 3427.36] But I want to focus on one verse, and it's verse 14. -[3427.36 --> 3436.06] If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face -[3436.06 --> 3442.40] and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin -[3442.40 --> 3444.74] and will heal their land. -[3446.34 --> 3452.16] And given the times we live in, man, do we need God's help. -[3452.16 --> 3453.62] Shall we pray? -[3456.56 --> 3458.18] Father, we art in heaven, Lord, thank you. -[3458.74 --> 3464.52] Thank you this morning that we can be here, that we can share with the people who made profession of faith, -[3464.62 --> 3465.84] the people that joined us. -[3466.80 --> 3469.74] Lord, you are an awesome God. -[3469.84 --> 3471.36] You have given us life. -[3473.04 --> 3476.46] Lord, we ask you to help us focus on you always. -[3476.46 --> 3480.82] Lord, sometimes we have priorities, but they're not your priorities. -[3481.58 --> 3485.14] Help us to make you a priority. -[3485.36 --> 3489.44] Lord, we watch TV, we sit on our phone, we do stuff. -[3490.50 --> 3494.36] And then when there's time, sometimes we just go to the word or pray. -[3495.76 --> 3496.90] Lord, will you convict us? -[3497.38 --> 3502.00] Will you convict us to come to you? -[3502.60 --> 3505.46] Lord, you know us inside out. -[3506.88 --> 3508.54] Probably better than we know ourselves. -[3509.80 --> 3513.94] You know our wants, but better than that, Lord, you know our needs. -[3515.26 --> 3516.48] Lord, we thank you for this church. -[3516.58 --> 3517.86] We thank you for everybody here. -[3517.94 --> 3522.54] We thank you for our staff, our pastors who proclaim your word week after week. -[3522.74 --> 3524.12] We pray we bless each one of them. -[3524.66 --> 3528.80] We thank you for the music ministry team up here. -[3529.12 --> 3533.14] We thank you for everyone else that participates in their own ways. -[3533.14 --> 3535.52] We thank you for children's worship right now. -[3535.64 --> 3539.46] Lord, we pray will you be with each one of the teachers. -[3539.94 --> 3542.06] We pray will you be with each one of the students. -[3543.44 --> 3545.44] Lord, we pray will you be with the students in school. -[3546.70 --> 3547.88] Some are already done. -[3548.04 --> 3549.64] Some have another few weeks to go. -[3549.92 --> 3551.42] We pray will you give them a good summer. -[3552.00 --> 3553.84] We pray will you refresh the teachers. -[3554.06 --> 3557.16] Lord, the teachers have such an important role. -[3557.16 --> 3561.56] Lord, we pray for each one of us here this morning. -[3562.26 --> 3565.06] We pray will you help us to focus on you. -[3566.26 --> 3571.56] Help us to be good parents, kids, grandparents. -[3573.24 --> 3576.28] Help us to be an example to those around us, Lord. -[3577.22 --> 3580.24] Lord, sometimes we're the meanest to the people we love the most. -[3580.74 --> 3581.84] Please forgive us for that. -[3581.84 --> 3587.08] Lord, we ask you to be with us as we continue. -[3587.88 --> 3590.32] Be with us as we hear your word, Lord. -[3590.98 --> 3594.88] But not just this day, but on and on and on, Lord. -[3594.98 --> 3597.98] You gave us an entire Bible for a reason. -[3599.36 --> 3602.26] So help us to seek your word out. -[3602.68 --> 3603.84] Help us to pray, Lord. -[3603.94 --> 3608.00] We pray for our city, this town of Langley, our neighborhood. -[3608.74 --> 3611.02] We pray for our province, Lord, the leaders there. -[3611.02 --> 3614.82] Lord, and we pray for our government nationally. -[3615.60 --> 3617.34] Lord, we just ask you to intervene. -[3618.46 --> 3623.26] We ask you that, Lord, your will may be done in our world, -[3623.34 --> 3625.32] that it becomes your world, your kingdom, Lord, -[3625.36 --> 3627.04] because there is so much that's not right. -[3628.30 --> 3632.26] We ask you, Lord, each one of us that maybe this week we get on our knees -[3632.26 --> 3636.46] or we get in a chair and we humbly bow to you and ask you, Lord, -[3636.54 --> 3643.38] for guidance and help and what can we do, Lord. -[3644.74 --> 3651.26] The same as you reacted with Solomon, Lord, after he built your house, -[3651.40 --> 3656.16] that you said, Lord, if you humble yourself and pray and ask, -[3656.16 --> 3658.18] I will heal your land. -[3658.68 --> 3662.66] And, Lord, our land needs healing as well as a lot of others. -[3663.48 --> 3666.48] Lord, as we dig into Romans again this morning, thank you for Romans. -[3667.54 --> 3668.30] We pray with you. -[3669.78 --> 3672.72] Be with Pastor Chris as he brings your word, Lord, -[3672.78 --> 3674.32] that it may be a word from you. -[3675.08 --> 3676.24] Thank you for your love and care. -[3676.54 --> 3677.54] Thank you in Jesus' name. -[3677.68 --> 3677.86] Amen. -[3686.16 --> 3712.16] This morning we're going to look in Romans at chapter 8, -[3712.16 --> 3716.12] at least the first part of chapter 8. -[3716.90 --> 3719.96] Now, before I read those first 17 verses, -[3720.18 --> 3723.46] and while you are maybe flipping in your Bibles to Romans 8, -[3724.30 --> 3730.48] I want to just acknowledge that Romans 8 is one of those chapters in the Bible -[3730.48 --> 3734.12] that is loved by so many people. -[3735.56 --> 3739.48] Romans 8 is one of my favorite chapters in the Bible -[3739.48 --> 3741.20] for a whole host of reasons, -[3741.64 --> 3745.04] not the least of which because it reminds me of my grandma -[3745.04 --> 3747.52] as it was preached on at her funeral. -[3748.76 --> 3751.14] There's so much going on in Romans 8 -[3751.14 --> 3754.48] that we're actually going to spend the next four weeks -[3754.48 --> 3757.90] looking at just Romans 8 together. -[3759.64 --> 3763.34] Now, from the beginning to the end of Romans 8, -[3763.72 --> 3767.02] I can say that there are portions of this text -[3767.02 --> 3770.02] that I have used in biblical counseling, -[3770.02 --> 3771.94] that I have used in grief counseling. -[3772.50 --> 3776.42] I've used it to face my own struggles and hardships -[3776.42 --> 3780.12] and to encourage others in facing trials in their life. -[3780.46 --> 3782.76] I've used it to speak hope -[3782.76 --> 3786.34] to someone who's nearing death in the hospital -[3786.34 --> 3788.50] at the end of their life. -[3789.86 --> 3792.80] Romans 8 really is one of those chapters -[3792.80 --> 3794.14] that has it all. -[3794.14 --> 3798.00] In the book of Romans, -[3798.34 --> 3799.96] we have been struggling -[3799.96 --> 3803.20] with the depths of our sin, -[3803.20 --> 3808.88] with the pervasive and comprehensive impact -[3808.88 --> 3810.28] of sin in the world, -[3810.86 --> 3813.82] our inability to be holy, -[3814.54 --> 3815.64] and we've been struggling -[3815.64 --> 3819.20] through the scope and the effect of the fall. -[3819.68 --> 3823.58] Romans 8 marks a shift in Paul's writing. -[3824.46 --> 3827.22] We shift now to new life -[3827.22 --> 3829.76] and resurrection adoption. -[3830.78 --> 3834.42] We shift to what it means to be a son of God, -[3834.50 --> 3835.64] a brother of Christ, -[3835.80 --> 3838.72] an heir of God and co-heir with Christ. -[3838.82 --> 3841.50] And I hope and pray that you too -[3841.50 --> 3844.14] fall in love with this chapter -[3844.14 --> 3845.50] in the book of Romans. -[3846.94 --> 3849.42] I also know that some of your care groups -[3849.42 --> 3852.56] spent a lot of time on Romans 8 -[3852.56 --> 3853.86] recently as well. -[3854.54 --> 3855.28] And so for you, -[3855.42 --> 3856.48] I hope it's still fresh -[3856.48 --> 3859.30] and I hope that this is also meaningful. -[3859.94 --> 3861.42] And so get your Bibles out, -[3861.52 --> 3862.72] get your pens ready, -[3862.78 --> 3864.08] if that's what you do, -[3864.18 --> 3865.46] and let's dig into -[3865.46 --> 3867.64] one of the most loved chapters -[3867.64 --> 3869.06] in all of the Bible. -[3869.84 --> 3870.42] Romans 8. -[3870.46 --> 3872.44] We're going to read the first 17 verses -[3872.44 --> 3873.92] this morning. -[3873.92 --> 3878.24] Therefore, -[3878.24 --> 3882.18] there is now no condemnation -[3882.18 --> 3885.82] for those who are in Christ Jesus. -[3885.82 --> 3890.36] Because through Christ Jesus, -[3890.36 --> 3893.06] the law of the Spirit who gives life -[3893.06 --> 3894.40] has set you free -[3894.40 --> 3896.96] from the law of sin and death. -[3897.86 --> 3900.18] For what the law was powerless to do -[3900.18 --> 3902.00] because it was weakened by the flesh, -[3902.42 --> 3904.70] God did by sending his own Son -[3904.70 --> 3906.82] in the likeness of sinful flesh -[3906.82 --> 3908.68] to be a sin offering. -[3909.12 --> 3912.04] And so he condemned sin in the flesh -[3912.04 --> 3914.38] in order that the righteous requirement -[3914.38 --> 3916.86] of the law might be fully met in us -[3916.86 --> 3919.46] who do not live according to the flesh, -[3919.66 --> 3921.76] but according to the Spirit. -[3923.28 --> 3925.82] Those who live according to the flesh -[3925.82 --> 3927.28] have their minds set -[3927.28 --> 3928.84] on what the flesh desires. -[3929.30 --> 3930.98] But those who live in accordance -[3930.98 --> 3931.74] with the Spirit -[3931.74 --> 3933.06] have their minds set -[3933.06 --> 3934.66] on what the Spirit desires. -[3935.50 --> 3937.78] The mind governed by the flesh -[3937.78 --> 3938.66] is death, -[3938.82 --> 3940.64] but the mind governed by the Spirit -[3940.64 --> 3942.44] is life and peace. -[3943.08 --> 3944.78] The mind governed by the flesh -[3944.78 --> 3946.18] is hostile to God. -[3946.38 --> 3948.04] It does not submit to God's law, -[3948.16 --> 3949.42] nor can it do so. -[3949.80 --> 3951.76] Those who are in the realm of the flesh -[3951.76 --> 3953.68] cannot please God. -[3954.48 --> 3955.82] You, however, -[3956.50 --> 3958.70] are not in the realm of the flesh, -[3958.74 --> 3961.02] but are in the realm of the Spirit, -[3961.32 --> 3963.98] if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. -[3964.76 --> 3966.06] And if anyone does not have -[3966.06 --> 3967.10] the Spirit of Christ, -[3967.20 --> 3968.78] they do not belong to Christ. -[3968.78 --> 3971.20] But if Christ is in you, -[3971.40 --> 3973.12] then even though your body -[3973.12 --> 3975.28] is subject to death because of sin, -[3975.62 --> 3977.22] the Spirit gives life -[3977.22 --> 3978.42] because of righteousness. -[3979.82 --> 3981.24] And if the Spirit of Him -[3981.24 --> 3983.30] who raised Jesus from the dead -[3983.30 --> 3984.54] is living in you, -[3984.90 --> 3987.26] He who raised Christ from the dead -[3987.26 --> 3988.94] will also give life -[3988.94 --> 3990.20] to your mortal bodies -[3990.20 --> 3991.74] because of His Spirit -[3991.74 --> 3993.50] who lives in you. -[3993.50 --> 3997.88] Therefore, brothers and sisters, -[3998.42 --> 3999.94] we have an obligation, -[4000.94 --> 4002.48] but it is not to the flesh -[4002.48 --> 4003.80] to live according to it. -[4004.20 --> 4006.12] For if you live according to the flesh, -[4006.18 --> 4006.98] you will die. -[4007.28 --> 4008.76] But if by the Spirit -[4008.76 --> 4009.86] you put to death -[4009.86 --> 4011.46] the misdeeds of the body, -[4011.56 --> 4013.00] you will live. -[4014.12 --> 4015.36] For those who are led -[4015.36 --> 4016.50] by the Spirit of God -[4016.50 --> 4018.64] are the children of God. -[4018.64 --> 4020.90] And the Spirit you received -[4020.90 --> 4022.52] does not make you slaves -[4022.52 --> 4024.38] so that you live in fear again. -[4024.84 --> 4026.68] Rather, the Spirit you received -[4026.68 --> 4028.36] brought about your adoption -[4028.36 --> 4029.76] to sonship. -[4030.44 --> 4031.94] By Him we cry, -[4032.18 --> 4033.50] Abba, Father. -[4034.84 --> 4036.06] The Spirit Himself testifies -[4036.64 --> 4037.48] with our spirit -[4037.48 --> 4039.54] that we are God's children. -[4040.28 --> 4041.46] Now if we are children, -[4041.64 --> 4042.66] then we are heirs, -[4043.08 --> 4044.04] heirs of God -[4044.04 --> 4045.38] and co-heirs with Christ, -[4045.46 --> 4046.82] if indeed we share -[4046.82 --> 4047.72] in His sufferings -[4047.72 --> 4048.98] in order that we may -[4048.98 --> 4051.98] also share in His glory. -[4052.66 --> 4053.78] This is the Word of the Lord. -[4058.28 --> 4059.58] I was mentioned already -[4059.58 --> 4060.82] in our service -[4060.82 --> 4063.18] that last week was Pentecost, -[4063.18 --> 4065.64] and now we live out of -[4065.64 --> 4068.18] that post-Pentecost reality -[4068.18 --> 4069.22] and season. -[4069.48 --> 4070.26] And so really, -[4070.52 --> 4072.02] it's fitting for us -[4072.02 --> 4074.48] that Paul continues here -[4074.48 --> 4075.80] in Romans 8 -[4075.80 --> 4076.76] with what it means -[4076.76 --> 4078.88] to be living in -[4078.88 --> 4081.16] and by the Spirit. -[4081.76 --> 4081.98] Right? -[4082.06 --> 4082.82] For those who have -[4082.82 --> 4086.56] received the Spirit. -[4087.58 --> 4089.26] And to help us make sense -[4089.26 --> 4091.66] of our Spirit-filled lives -[4091.66 --> 4093.66] from Romans 8, -[4094.02 --> 4095.10] I want to actually, -[4095.40 --> 4096.42] in our reflection together, -[4096.82 --> 4098.68] begin at the end -[4098.68 --> 4099.70] of what we read. -[4099.70 --> 4101.78] And so I want us -[4101.78 --> 4103.28] to begin with the identity -[4103.28 --> 4104.70] that we have been given -[4104.70 --> 4106.14] by grace through faith -[4106.14 --> 4108.06] in the work of the Spirit. -[4108.48 --> 4109.72] And so with your Bibles open, -[4109.94 --> 4111.66] look at verse 15. -[4113.42 --> 4114.42] Verse 15, -[4114.64 --> 4115.50] God says, -[4115.66 --> 4117.34] this is who you are. -[4118.18 --> 4119.96] The Spirit you received -[4119.96 --> 4121.44] does not make you slaves -[4121.44 --> 4123.08] so that you live in fear again. -[4123.08 --> 4123.62] Rather, -[4124.22 --> 4125.98] the Spirit you received -[4125.98 --> 4127.76] brought about your adoption -[4127.76 --> 4129.28] to sonship. -[4129.64 --> 4131.24] And by Him we cry, -[4131.80 --> 4132.22] Abba, -[4132.72 --> 4133.48] Father. -[4134.98 --> 4135.44] Now, -[4135.56 --> 4136.52] just to clear the air, -[4136.90 --> 4138.12] the word Abba here -[4138.12 --> 4140.12] is not the Euro pop group -[4140.12 --> 4141.06] from the 70s. -[4141.86 --> 4144.10] It's the Aramaic word -[4144.10 --> 4145.52] for Father. -[4147.84 --> 4149.22] But Abba -[4149.22 --> 4152.12] is a special term. -[4153.22 --> 4154.76] It's a term of intimacy -[4154.76 --> 4157.24] and of familiarity. -[4159.40 --> 4160.82] Rarely does my son, -[4161.00 --> 4162.08] who's eight year old, -[4162.34 --> 4163.30] call me father. -[4164.50 --> 4165.34] He's more likely -[4165.34 --> 4166.22] to call me daddy -[4166.22 --> 4168.02] or to call me dad. -[4168.10 --> 4168.20] Yeah, -[4168.26 --> 4169.26] my daughter calls me father, -[4169.32 --> 4170.12] but she's a special breed. -[4170.18 --> 4170.76] That's why you're not -[4170.76 --> 4171.66] this illustration, dear. -[4173.62 --> 4174.44] My son, -[4174.52 --> 4174.98] who's eight, -[4175.04 --> 4175.62] is more likely -[4175.62 --> 4176.54] to call me bruh -[4176.54 --> 4177.56] than he is -[4177.56 --> 4178.38] to call me father. -[4181.16 --> 4182.50] But Paul wants you -[4182.50 --> 4184.62] to see that kind of intimacy -[4184.62 --> 4187.08] by using the word Abba. -[4188.20 --> 4188.42] Right? -[4188.44 --> 4190.40] It's not just father. -[4190.78 --> 4190.92] Right? -[4190.92 --> 4191.62] It's not just -[4191.62 --> 4193.98] a biological relationship. -[4193.98 --> 4195.18] It's a relationship -[4195.18 --> 4196.10] of love -[4196.10 --> 4197.20] and affection. -[4197.76 --> 4198.36] And this -[4198.36 --> 4199.48] is how Christians -[4199.48 --> 4200.58] are invited -[4200.58 --> 4202.18] to approach -[4202.18 --> 4203.84] the all-powerful, -[4203.92 --> 4204.72] all-knowing -[4204.72 --> 4206.14] creator God. -[4206.38 --> 4206.50] Right? -[4206.52 --> 4207.08] The God -[4207.08 --> 4208.30] who created the universe -[4208.30 --> 4209.34] with a word -[4209.34 --> 4210.42] invites you -[4210.42 --> 4211.60] to call him -[4211.60 --> 4213.30] daddy. -[4214.78 --> 4215.46] The God -[4215.46 --> 4216.16] of the cosmos -[4216.16 --> 4217.18] who upholds -[4217.18 --> 4217.94] everything -[4217.94 --> 4219.54] by his hand -[4219.54 --> 4220.16] invites you -[4220.16 --> 4220.84] to call him -[4220.84 --> 4221.66] dad. -[4222.96 --> 4223.38] Now, -[4223.46 --> 4223.90] I know -[4223.90 --> 4224.80] that some of you -[4224.80 --> 4225.80] hear me say that -[4225.80 --> 4226.92] and you get a little bit -[4226.92 --> 4227.28] anxious -[4227.28 --> 4228.08] because you're like, -[4228.16 --> 4228.34] man, -[4228.40 --> 4229.46] that's pretty irreverent -[4229.46 --> 4230.84] and we shouldn't talk -[4230.84 --> 4231.86] about God like that. -[4232.92 --> 4233.14] Right? -[4233.22 --> 4233.80] Sometimes -[4233.80 --> 4234.64] you might think -[4234.64 --> 4235.80] that calling God -[4235.80 --> 4236.50] and Savior -[4236.50 --> 4237.08] papa -[4237.08 --> 4237.92] or daddy -[4237.92 --> 4238.74] is not showing -[4238.74 --> 4239.36] the respect -[4239.36 --> 4241.08] or the worship -[4241.08 --> 4241.88] or the awe -[4241.88 --> 4243.00] that is due his name -[4243.00 --> 4244.46] and honestly, -[4244.62 --> 4245.60] I can empathize -[4245.60 --> 4246.32] with that. -[4247.18 --> 4247.58] And yet, -[4248.50 --> 4249.80] I don't want you -[4249.80 --> 4250.58] to miss -[4250.58 --> 4252.20] the intimacy -[4252.20 --> 4253.56] that you are being -[4253.56 --> 4255.10] invited to experience -[4255.10 --> 4256.28] because of -[4256.28 --> 4258.10] your concern -[4258.10 --> 4259.64] for irreverence. -[4260.44 --> 4260.82] Somehow, -[4260.98 --> 4261.50] we have to hold -[4261.50 --> 4262.68] those two realities -[4262.68 --> 4263.84] together. -[4264.60 --> 4264.74] Right? -[4264.84 --> 4266.28] There's the intimacy -[4266.28 --> 4267.92] that we are being -[4267.92 --> 4269.32] invited to experience -[4269.32 --> 4270.36] with God here -[4270.36 --> 4272.26] is so beautiful -[4272.26 --> 4273.06] and deep -[4273.06 --> 4274.10] and powerful. -[4275.24 --> 4275.62] Now, -[4275.76 --> 4277.40] I also know -[4277.40 --> 4278.72] that for some -[4278.72 --> 4279.28] of us, -[4279.42 --> 4280.28] the relationships -[4280.28 --> 4281.34] that you have -[4281.34 --> 4282.36] with your earthly -[4282.36 --> 4282.86] fathers -[4282.86 --> 4283.98] are not good -[4283.98 --> 4284.56] or perhaps -[4284.56 --> 4286.66] not even existent -[4286.66 --> 4287.66] and sometimes -[4287.66 --> 4289.20] that can also -[4289.20 --> 4290.10] color -[4290.10 --> 4291.34] your relationship -[4291.34 --> 4292.24] to God -[4292.24 --> 4293.36] as father. -[4293.36 --> 4293.42] father. -[4294.30 --> 4295.02] And I pray -[4295.02 --> 4295.50] that even -[4295.50 --> 4296.30] as we acknowledge -[4296.30 --> 4297.24] that reality -[4297.24 --> 4299.82] that the kind -[4299.82 --> 4300.94] of intimacy -[4300.94 --> 4302.78] that you mourn -[4302.78 --> 4303.58] or that you have -[4303.58 --> 4304.42] lost or that you -[4304.42 --> 4305.28] have never had -[4305.28 --> 4306.44] with your earthly -[4306.44 --> 4306.92] father, -[4307.24 --> 4309.36] you might experience -[4309.36 --> 4310.68] with your heavenly -[4310.68 --> 4311.08] father -[4311.08 --> 4313.22] because he wants -[4313.22 --> 4314.54] to love you -[4314.54 --> 4315.68] in that way -[4315.68 --> 4316.46] even if you've -[4316.46 --> 4317.82] never experienced -[4317.82 --> 4318.52] that love -[4318.52 --> 4319.62] in your life. -[4320.62 --> 4320.74] Right? -[4320.74 --> 4321.64] God wants -[4321.64 --> 4322.46] a real -[4322.46 --> 4323.36] relationship -[4323.36 --> 4323.76] with you. -[4323.84 --> 4324.66] That's who -[4324.66 --> 4325.28] you are. -[4325.62 --> 4326.36] That's why -[4326.36 --> 4327.42] he adopts -[4327.42 --> 4328.00] you to -[4328.00 --> 4328.92] sonship. -[4329.56 --> 4330.00] Again, -[4330.14 --> 4330.76] verse 15, -[4330.84 --> 4331.26] the spirit -[4331.26 --> 4332.04] you received -[4332.04 --> 4332.80] brought about -[4332.80 --> 4334.42] your adoption -[4334.42 --> 4336.34] to sonship. -[4338.30 --> 4338.58] Now, -[4339.08 --> 4339.76] forgive me -[4339.76 --> 4341.32] for the Greek -[4341.32 --> 4341.84] language -[4341.84 --> 4342.38] that we're -[4342.38 --> 4342.88] about to hear -[4342.88 --> 4343.70] but literally -[4343.70 --> 4344.42] in Greek -[4344.42 --> 4345.24] the sentence -[4345.24 --> 4345.94] there is -[4345.94 --> 4347.26] you received -[4347.26 --> 4348.08] the spirit -[4348.08 --> 4348.76] who -[4348.76 --> 4349.98] sonized -[4349.98 --> 4350.40] you. -[4351.62 --> 4352.44] Sonized -[4352.44 --> 4352.68] you. -[4352.76 --> 4352.96] I think -[4352.96 --> 4353.18] we have -[4353.18 --> 4353.52] a slide -[4353.52 --> 4353.86] for that -[4353.86 --> 4354.08] one. -[4357.16 --> 4357.56] Yeah, -[4357.60 --> 4357.96] the spirit -[4357.96 --> 4358.12] who -[4358.12 --> 4358.64] sonized -[4358.64 --> 4358.76] you. -[4358.80 --> 4358.94] And I -[4358.94 --> 4359.26] wanted that -[4359.26 --> 4359.62] on the screen -[4359.62 --> 4359.98] because that's -[4359.98 --> 4360.32] not a real -[4360.32 --> 4361.06] word in -[4361.06 --> 4361.84] English anyway. -[4362.50 --> 4362.70] Right? -[4362.78 --> 4363.82] To sonize -[4363.82 --> 4364.70] someone. -[4365.36 --> 4365.46] Right? -[4365.52 --> 4366.56] To sonize -[4366.56 --> 4367.22] is to -[4367.22 --> 4368.46] have the spirit -[4368.46 --> 4369.18] make you -[4369.18 --> 4369.98] a son. -[4371.06 --> 4371.84] And because -[4371.84 --> 4372.48] it's not a -[4372.48 --> 4372.90] word in -[4372.90 --> 4373.38] English, -[4373.56 --> 4374.30] we use the -[4374.30 --> 4374.78] word or the -[4374.78 --> 4375.46] translators have -[4375.46 --> 4376.18] substituted the -[4376.18 --> 4376.96] word adoption. -[4376.96 --> 4377.08] adoption. -[4378.06 --> 4378.48] Now, -[4378.54 --> 4379.34] adoption makes -[4379.34 --> 4380.02] sense in -[4380.02 --> 4381.06] this context -[4381.06 --> 4382.66] because adoption -[4382.66 --> 4386.08] represents a -[4386.08 --> 4387.76] legal exchange. -[4387.94 --> 4388.02] Right? -[4388.10 --> 4388.82] Once you were -[4388.82 --> 4389.72] not a son -[4389.72 --> 4390.48] and now you -[4390.48 --> 4391.24] have become -[4391.24 --> 4391.52] one. -[4391.60 --> 4391.98] Once you -[4391.98 --> 4392.68] were not -[4392.68 --> 4393.16] an heir -[4393.16 --> 4393.84] and now you -[4393.84 --> 4394.56] have become -[4394.56 --> 4395.32] an heir. -[4395.66 --> 4396.34] And the -[4396.34 --> 4396.96] concept of -[4396.96 --> 4397.80] adoption is -[4397.80 --> 4398.72] so important -[4398.72 --> 4399.66] because it -[4399.66 --> 4400.32] represents, -[4400.42 --> 4400.70] like we -[4400.70 --> 4400.92] said, -[4401.02 --> 4401.86] a legal -[4401.86 --> 4402.94] change of -[4402.94 --> 4403.66] identity. -[4405.66 --> 4406.02] And throughout -[4406.02 --> 4406.78] the first part -[4406.78 --> 4407.14] of the book -[4407.14 --> 4407.76] of Romans, -[4408.20 --> 4408.80] Paul has -[4408.80 --> 4409.54] been building -[4409.54 --> 4410.44] up this -[4410.44 --> 4411.86] legal case -[4411.86 --> 4413.04] against us, -[4413.18 --> 4414.46] against people, -[4414.66 --> 4415.40] and he's been -[4415.40 --> 4416.30] presenting for -[4416.30 --> 4417.74] us the legal -[4417.74 --> 4419.20] exchange that -[4419.20 --> 4420.40] took place on -[4420.40 --> 4421.44] the cross and -[4421.44 --> 4421.74] with the -[4421.74 --> 4422.16] resurrection. -[4423.30 --> 4423.48] Right? -[4423.48 --> 4423.82] If you're -[4423.82 --> 4424.56] reading Romans, -[4424.76 --> 4425.48] you can't help -[4425.48 --> 4426.38] but see that -[4426.38 --> 4426.94] there is this -[4426.94 --> 4428.36] juridical exchange -[4428.36 --> 4429.42] that takes -[4429.42 --> 4429.88] place. -[4430.60 --> 4431.34] And one very -[4431.34 --> 4432.24] important aspect -[4432.24 --> 4433.56] of salvation -[4433.56 --> 4434.78] is this -[4434.78 --> 4435.68] juridical -[4435.68 --> 4436.40] character. -[4437.08 --> 4437.78] The legal -[4437.78 --> 4438.70] exchange that -[4438.70 --> 4439.28] takes place -[4439.28 --> 4440.22] where my -[4440.22 --> 4441.16] sin is -[4441.16 --> 4441.94] imputed, -[4442.22 --> 4442.84] handed over, -[4442.98 --> 4443.66] put upon -[4443.66 --> 4444.58] Christ, -[4444.74 --> 4445.26] and he -[4445.26 --> 4445.86] pays the -[4445.86 --> 4446.54] penalty for -[4446.54 --> 4447.28] it in dying -[4447.28 --> 4447.66] the death -[4447.66 --> 4447.90] that I -[4447.90 --> 4448.32] deserved. -[4449.22 --> 4449.36] Right? -[4449.42 --> 4449.98] And then his -[4449.98 --> 4451.16] righteousness is -[4451.16 --> 4451.66] imputed, -[4451.86 --> 4452.62] is put upon, -[4452.70 --> 4453.48] is transferred, -[4454.06 --> 4454.78] his perfect -[4454.78 --> 4455.78] obedience is -[4455.78 --> 4457.14] given to me, -[4457.34 --> 4457.94] and it's -[4457.94 --> 4458.90] counted in my -[4458.90 --> 4459.34] favor, -[4459.34 --> 4460.14] or in the -[4460.14 --> 4461.02] language of -[4461.02 --> 4461.56] Romans, -[4461.70 --> 4462.42] it is credited -[4462.42 --> 4463.54] to me as -[4463.54 --> 4464.28] righteousness. -[4465.52 --> 4466.20] That's what -[4466.20 --> 4467.26] adoption does. -[4468.46 --> 4468.98] You were once -[4468.98 --> 4470.02] not a child of -[4470.02 --> 4470.58] the Father, -[4470.96 --> 4471.72] but now you -[4471.72 --> 4472.88] are a child of -[4472.88 --> 4473.46] the Father, -[4473.78 --> 4474.96] whom you call -[4474.96 --> 4475.82] Abba. -[4477.62 --> 4478.50] But actually, -[4478.62 --> 4479.02] it goes even -[4479.02 --> 4479.92] deeper than that. -[4481.18 --> 4481.30] Right? -[4481.34 --> 4481.94] That's why the -[4481.94 --> 4482.70] Bible says -[4482.70 --> 4483.72] adoption to -[4483.72 --> 4484.56] sonship, -[4484.64 --> 4484.78] right? -[4484.80 --> 4485.26] That's why we're -[4485.26 --> 4485.92] trying to figure -[4485.92 --> 4486.66] out this word -[4486.66 --> 4487.76] sun-eyes. -[4489.34 --> 4490.38] A little cultural -[4490.38 --> 4491.36] context for you. -[4492.44 --> 4493.20] At this point -[4493.20 --> 4493.90] in history, -[4494.10 --> 4495.08] in much of -[4495.08 --> 4495.86] the Greco-Roman -[4495.86 --> 4496.38] world, -[4496.72 --> 4497.20] there's a -[4497.20 --> 4498.18] practice called -[4498.18 --> 4499.56] primogeniture. -[4500.26 --> 4500.58] Now, I know -[4500.58 --> 4501.02] that's a big -[4501.02 --> 4501.28] word. -[4501.50 --> 4502.84] Primo means -[4502.84 --> 4503.48] first, -[4504.00 --> 4504.90] and geniture -[4504.90 --> 4505.98] refers to -[4505.98 --> 4506.86] generations. -[4507.76 --> 4507.98] And so, -[4508.06 --> 4508.22] literally, -[4508.40 --> 4508.98] it's first -[4508.98 --> 4509.70] generation, -[4509.92 --> 4510.92] or first -[4510.92 --> 4511.60] born -[4511.60 --> 4512.78] son, -[4513.06 --> 4513.44] primarily. -[4514.36 --> 4515.04] Primogeniture, -[4515.20 --> 4515.82] or the law -[4515.82 --> 4517.02] of primogeniture, -[4517.38 --> 4518.20] is the legal -[4518.20 --> 4519.32] idea that the -[4519.32 --> 4520.58] firstborn son -[4520.58 --> 4522.32] inherits everything -[4522.32 --> 4523.30] from the -[4523.30 --> 4523.60] father. -[4524.78 --> 4525.30] So, by way of -[4525.30 --> 4525.48] analogy, -[4525.58 --> 4525.96] think about -[4525.96 --> 4526.44] kings, -[4526.98 --> 4527.18] right? -[4527.24 --> 4527.96] The title of -[4527.96 --> 4528.90] king can only -[4528.90 --> 4530.04] go to one -[4530.04 --> 4530.70] son, -[4531.28 --> 4532.10] usually the -[4532.10 --> 4532.48] oldest. -[4533.30 --> 4533.90] And in the -[4533.90 --> 4534.42] Greco-Roman -[4534.42 --> 4534.90] world, -[4535.02 --> 4535.72] more generally, -[4536.04 --> 4537.02] only males -[4537.02 --> 4537.98] could inherit -[4537.98 --> 4539.34] titles and -[4539.34 --> 4539.86] status. -[4541.14 --> 4542.02] And so, -[4542.22 --> 4543.70] you have a -[4543.70 --> 4544.74] pater familius, -[4544.80 --> 4545.54] a head of the -[4545.54 --> 4546.26] family in the -[4546.26 --> 4546.90] Latin world, -[4547.30 --> 4548.34] who has no -[4548.34 --> 4549.00] sons. -[4549.76 --> 4550.38] He would have -[4550.38 --> 4551.26] no one to -[4551.26 --> 4551.98] inherit his -[4551.98 --> 4552.84] title and his -[4552.84 --> 4553.94] wealth to. -[4555.38 --> 4555.98] But, -[4556.04 --> 4556.66] there is a -[4556.66 --> 4557.52] legal provision -[4557.52 --> 4558.80] for him to -[4558.80 --> 4559.92] adopt one of -[4559.92 --> 4560.88] his slaves -[4560.88 --> 4562.68] and make them -[4562.68 --> 4563.70] as if a -[4563.70 --> 4564.74] natural-born -[4564.74 --> 4565.60] son. -[4566.70 --> 4567.38] But again, -[4567.78 --> 4568.46] it still had to -[4568.46 --> 4568.92] be a male. -[4570.32 --> 4570.50] Now, -[4570.56 --> 4571.26] I hope that -[4571.26 --> 4571.68] you're hearing -[4571.68 --> 4572.04] this, -[4572.10 --> 4572.54] and I hope that -[4572.54 --> 4572.96] you're starting -[4572.96 --> 4573.86] to put the -[4573.86 --> 4574.56] pieces together -[4574.56 --> 4575.44] because one -[4575.44 --> 4576.14] of the amazing -[4576.14 --> 4576.96] things about -[4576.96 --> 4577.98] the gospel is -[4577.98 --> 4579.28] that all of -[4579.28 --> 4579.80] us who -[4579.80 --> 4580.50] believe, -[4580.78 --> 4581.44] all of us -[4581.44 --> 4581.66] who have -[4581.66 --> 4582.22] been taken -[4582.22 --> 4583.46] as slaves -[4583.46 --> 4583.98] to sin -[4583.98 --> 4584.44] have been -[4584.44 --> 4585.88] adopted as -[4585.88 --> 4586.50] sons. -[4587.10 --> 4587.94] All of us, -[4588.00 --> 4588.28] whether you -[4588.28 --> 4589.16] are male or -[4589.16 --> 4589.64] female, -[4589.80 --> 4590.38] who are dead -[4590.38 --> 4590.76] in our -[4590.76 --> 4591.56] transgressions and -[4591.56 --> 4591.82] sins, -[4592.00 --> 4592.34] have been -[4592.34 --> 4593.16] raised up -[4593.16 --> 4593.86] and adopted -[4593.86 --> 4594.58] as heirs -[4594.58 --> 4595.64] and co-heirs. -[4596.02 --> 4596.40] We are -[4596.40 --> 4597.56] treated just -[4597.56 --> 4598.54] like Jesus -[4598.54 --> 4599.30] himself, -[4600.28 --> 4600.48] right? -[4600.52 --> 4601.28] Right alongside -[4601.28 --> 4602.00] with him. -[4602.00 --> 4603.16] So, -[4603.24 --> 4603.70] when Paul -[4603.70 --> 4604.40] says in a -[4604.40 --> 4604.86] different letter -[4604.86 --> 4605.62] in Galatians -[4605.62 --> 4605.96] 3, -[4606.12 --> 4606.74] he says there's -[4606.74 --> 4607.46] no longer -[4607.46 --> 4608.92] male nor -[4608.92 --> 4609.78] female in -[4609.78 --> 4610.52] Christ Jesus, -[4610.66 --> 4611.38] this is the -[4611.38 --> 4611.90] point that he's -[4611.90 --> 4612.28] making. -[4612.90 --> 4613.54] That in -[4613.54 --> 4614.42] Christ Jesus, -[4614.70 --> 4615.30] the Spirit -[4615.30 --> 4616.24] granting us -[4616.24 --> 4617.04] new life, -[4617.42 --> 4618.42] by the Spirit -[4618.42 --> 4619.52] we all cry, -[4619.76 --> 4620.62] male or -[4620.62 --> 4621.18] female, -[4621.58 --> 4621.94] Abba. -[4622.54 --> 4623.74] We are all -[4623.74 --> 4624.76] adopted as -[4624.76 --> 4625.38] sons, -[4626.24 --> 4626.38] right? -[4626.38 --> 4627.22] That we all -[4627.22 --> 4628.20] have the legal -[4628.20 --> 4628.56] right, -[4628.68 --> 4629.38] the change of -[4629.38 --> 4630.42] status to -[4630.42 --> 4630.76] inherit. -[4630.76 --> 4632.22] Right? -[4632.28 --> 4632.66] One of the -[4632.66 --> 4633.34] most beautiful -[4633.34 --> 4634.54] images of -[4634.54 --> 4635.34] the gospel is -[4635.34 --> 4636.04] that men and -[4636.04 --> 4636.48] women are -[4636.48 --> 4637.46] both sons -[4637.46 --> 4638.94] of God. -[4640.26 --> 4641.10] If you have -[4641.10 --> 4641.70] the ears to -[4641.70 --> 4642.20] hear it, -[4643.68 --> 4644.86] the Apostle -[4644.86 --> 4646.90] Paul is -[4646.90 --> 4647.68] being a -[4647.68 --> 4648.24] groundbreaking -[4648.24 --> 4650.04] feminist in -[4650.04 --> 4650.60] this moment. -[4652.60 --> 4653.72] He's raising -[4653.72 --> 4654.48] up the -[4654.48 --> 4655.66] status of -[4655.66 --> 4656.66] women to -[4656.66 --> 4656.98] something -[4656.98 --> 4658.16] unprecedented in -[4658.16 --> 4658.66] that cultural -[4658.66 --> 4659.06] moment. -[4659.06 --> 4659.08] God. -[4659.64 --> 4660.16] He says -[4660.16 --> 4660.90] that's what -[4660.90 --> 4662.64] Christ does. -[4664.18 --> 4664.44] And so on -[4664.44 --> 4664.98] the one hand, -[4665.06 --> 4665.70] the image is -[4665.70 --> 4666.40] that men and -[4666.40 --> 4666.90] women are -[4666.90 --> 4667.72] both sons -[4667.72 --> 4668.62] of God, -[4668.68 --> 4669.36] but also in -[4669.36 --> 4669.78] the Bible, -[4669.78 --> 4670.54] you have an -[4670.54 --> 4671.26] image of men -[4671.26 --> 4671.70] and women -[4671.70 --> 4672.62] both being -[4672.62 --> 4673.30] the bride -[4673.30 --> 4674.50] of Christ. -[4676.70 --> 4677.68] In Christ -[4677.68 --> 4678.04] Jesus, -[4678.16 --> 4678.40] there is -[4678.40 --> 4678.92] neither male -[4678.92 --> 4680.10] nor female, -[4680.68 --> 4681.40] because we -[4681.40 --> 4682.04] are all -[4682.04 --> 4682.82] raised up -[4682.82 --> 4684.10] as those -[4684.10 --> 4684.72] who may -[4684.72 --> 4685.72] legitimately, -[4686.42 --> 4686.74] legally, -[4686.74 --> 4688.36] inherit the -[4688.36 --> 4689.84] kingdom of -[4689.84 --> 4690.16] God. -[4691.94 --> 4692.90] We are all -[4692.90 --> 4693.26] sons. -[4693.86 --> 4694.36] We all -[4694.36 --> 4694.90] cry, -[4695.16 --> 4695.56] Abba, -[4696.12 --> 4696.58] Father. -[4697.02 --> 4697.64] We are all -[4697.64 --> 4698.12] God's -[4698.12 --> 4698.74] children. -[4698.94 --> 4699.42] And now, -[4699.66 --> 4700.36] if we are -[4700.36 --> 4700.78] children, -[4700.96 --> 4701.56] then we are -[4701.56 --> 4701.94] heirs, -[4702.14 --> 4702.78] heirs of -[4702.78 --> 4703.50] God and -[4703.50 --> 4704.24] co-heirs -[4704.24 --> 4705.48] with Christ. -[4707.54 --> 4708.12] Now, -[4708.18 --> 4708.64] it's on this -[4708.64 --> 4709.26] understanding -[4709.26 --> 4709.58] then, -[4709.94 --> 4710.10] right? -[4710.16 --> 4710.74] This was the -[4710.74 --> 4711.26] end, -[4711.32 --> 4711.72] so that we -[4711.72 --> 4712.16] can go back -[4712.16 --> 4712.42] to the -[4712.42 --> 4712.72] beginning, -[4713.30 --> 4713.94] on this -[4713.94 --> 4714.58] foundation -[4714.58 --> 4715.62] of our -[4715.62 --> 4716.18] shared -[4716.18 --> 4716.96] identity, -[4716.96 --> 4717.84] now we -[4717.84 --> 4718.20] can go -[4718.20 --> 4718.76] back and -[4718.76 --> 4719.16] start to -[4719.16 --> 4720.16] see what -[4720.16 --> 4720.64] it means. -[4721.34 --> 4721.74] And so, -[4722.44 --> 4723.02] we are -[4723.02 --> 4723.82] all sons, -[4724.32 --> 4724.90] and so -[4724.90 --> 4725.62] that means -[4725.62 --> 4726.90] three things. -[4727.60 --> 4727.98] We are -[4727.98 --> 4728.60] all sons, -[4728.78 --> 4729.30] and so -[4729.30 --> 4729.92] there is -[4729.92 --> 4730.98] no condemnation -[4730.98 --> 4731.50] for us, -[4731.52 --> 4731.90] that's the -[4731.90 --> 4732.18] first. -[4732.82 --> 4733.28] The second -[4733.28 --> 4733.56] that we -[4733.56 --> 4733.86] will look -[4733.86 --> 4734.28] at is -[4734.28 --> 4734.82] our minds -[4734.82 --> 4735.28] are set -[4735.28 --> 4735.60] on what -[4735.60 --> 4735.98] the Spirit -[4735.98 --> 4736.52] desires, -[4737.36 --> 4737.76] and then -[4737.76 --> 4738.06] we will -[4738.06 --> 4738.76] finish by -[4738.76 --> 4739.46] looking at -[4739.46 --> 4740.44] how we -[4740.44 --> 4740.78] are all -[4740.78 --> 4741.08] sons, -[4741.08 --> 4741.58] and so -[4741.58 --> 4742.10] we put -[4742.10 --> 4742.68] to death -[4742.68 --> 4744.32] sin in -[4744.32 --> 4744.82] our lives. -[4746.12 --> 4746.52] First, -[4746.64 --> 4746.90] we are -[4746.90 --> 4747.48] all sons, -[4747.66 --> 4748.04] and so -[4748.04 --> 4748.60] there is -[4748.60 --> 4749.66] no condemnation. -[4750.10 --> 4750.50] This is -[4750.50 --> 4751.38] back in -[4751.38 --> 4752.24] verse 1. -[4753.06 --> 4753.38] Therefore, -[4753.68 --> 4754.10] there is -[4754.10 --> 4754.74] now no -[4754.74 --> 4755.58] condemnation -[4755.58 --> 4756.30] for those -[4756.30 --> 4756.64] who are -[4756.64 --> 4757.66] in Christ -[4757.66 --> 4758.58] Jesus. -[4760.20 --> 4760.80] Now, -[4760.88 --> 4761.78] I cannot, -[4762.30 --> 4763.00] I don't -[4763.00 --> 4763.62] have the -[4763.62 --> 4764.28] rhetorical -[4764.28 --> 4764.88] skill -[4764.88 --> 4766.26] to -[4766.26 --> 4767.78] overstate -[4767.78 --> 4768.54] how -[4768.54 --> 4769.54] amazing -[4769.54 --> 4770.74] this -[4770.74 --> 4771.08] line -[4771.08 --> 4771.46] is. -[4772.64 --> 4773.48] I cannot -[4773.48 --> 4774.32] tell you -[4774.32 --> 4775.26] how big -[4775.26 --> 4776.12] and important -[4776.12 --> 4776.60] this -[4776.60 --> 4777.60] truth is. -[4778.74 --> 4779.76] If you -[4779.76 --> 4780.60] are ever -[4780.60 --> 4781.56] overwhelmed -[4781.56 --> 4782.70] by your -[4782.70 --> 4783.04] struggle -[4783.04 --> 4783.48] with sin, -[4784.62 --> 4784.94] if you -[4784.94 --> 4785.40] are ever -[4785.40 --> 4786.08] stuck -[4786.08 --> 4786.90] believing -[4786.90 --> 4788.02] that you -[4788.02 --> 4788.68] have done -[4788.68 --> 4789.56] one too -[4789.56 --> 4790.24] many bad -[4790.24 --> 4790.86] things -[4790.86 --> 4791.56] for God -[4791.56 --> 4792.02] to forgive -[4792.02 --> 4792.32] you, -[4792.64 --> 4793.08] if you're -[4793.08 --> 4793.90] ever trapped -[4793.90 --> 4794.60] in the -[4794.60 --> 4795.20] lie that -[4795.20 --> 4795.92] your sin -[4795.92 --> 4796.58] is worse -[4796.58 --> 4797.16] than everyone -[4797.16 --> 4797.86] else's, -[4797.86 --> 4798.48] and that -[4798.48 --> 4799.00] God would -[4799.00 --> 4799.62] never love -[4799.62 --> 4799.90] you, -[4800.66 --> 4801.04] if you -[4801.04 --> 4801.66] are afraid -[4801.66 --> 4802.32] of judgment -[4802.32 --> 4802.88] and death -[4802.88 --> 4803.40] because you -[4803.40 --> 4804.40] just don't -[4804.40 --> 4805.10] know what -[4805.10 --> 4806.08] comes afterwards, -[4806.38 --> 4807.12] this verse -[4807.12 --> 4807.90] is for you. -[4808.70 --> 4809.08] There is -[4809.08 --> 4809.74] now no -[4809.74 --> 4810.62] condemnation. -[4810.88 --> 4811.20] That means -[4811.20 --> 4811.72] there's no -[4811.72 --> 4812.36] damnation, -[4812.52 --> 4813.02] there's no -[4813.02 --> 4813.64] negative -[4813.64 --> 4814.32] judgment, -[4814.48 --> 4814.72] there is -[4814.72 --> 4815.44] now nothing -[4815.44 --> 4816.20] that will -[4816.20 --> 4817.02] separate you -[4817.02 --> 4817.58] from the -[4817.58 --> 4817.90] love of -[4817.90 --> 4818.20] God. -[4819.58 --> 4820.00] Now, -[4820.68 --> 4821.40] real talk, -[4821.86 --> 4822.04] right, -[4822.12 --> 4822.40] there will -[4822.40 --> 4822.82] still be -[4822.82 --> 4823.48] consequences -[4823.48 --> 4824.60] for your -[4824.60 --> 4825.20] sin in -[4825.20 --> 4825.78] this life. -[4825.78 --> 4826.44] There will -[4826.44 --> 4827.02] still be -[4827.02 --> 4827.88] an impact -[4827.88 --> 4828.58] for hurt -[4828.58 --> 4829.08] caused -[4829.08 --> 4829.54] and hurt -[4829.54 --> 4829.84] done. -[4830.16 --> 4830.44] There will -[4830.44 --> 4830.90] still be -[4830.90 --> 4831.56] trauma and -[4831.56 --> 4832.44] trauma processing -[4832.44 --> 4833.20] that is -[4833.20 --> 4833.66] required. -[4833.96 --> 4834.54] But if -[4834.54 --> 4835.12] you are -[4835.12 --> 4835.70] adopted -[4835.70 --> 4836.96] as sons, -[4837.12 --> 4837.46] if you -[4837.46 --> 4837.78] are an -[4837.78 --> 4838.22] heir of -[4838.22 --> 4838.70] God and -[4838.70 --> 4839.18] a co-heir -[4839.18 --> 4839.64] with Christ, -[4839.76 --> 4840.44] if you -[4840.44 --> 4841.42] cry today, -[4841.74 --> 4842.22] Abba, -[4842.48 --> 4843.00] Father, -[4843.28 --> 4843.76] there is -[4843.76 --> 4844.52] now no -[4844.52 --> 4845.36] condemnation -[4845.36 --> 4846.18] for you. -[4846.18 --> 4852.66] there is -[4852.66 --> 4854.14] a 20th -[4854.14 --> 4854.56] century -[4854.56 --> 4855.38] Welsh -[4855.38 --> 4856.24] preacher, -[4857.04 --> 4857.36] his name -[4857.36 --> 4857.76] is D. -[4857.92 --> 4858.56] Martin Lloyd -[4858.56 --> 4858.96] Jones, -[4859.74 --> 4860.34] and he -[4860.34 --> 4860.96] said of -[4860.96 --> 4861.20] this -[4861.20 --> 4861.50] verse, -[4862.72 --> 4863.70] most of -[4863.70 --> 4864.32] our troubles -[4864.32 --> 4865.02] are due -[4865.02 --> 4865.66] to our -[4865.66 --> 4866.54] failure to -[4866.54 --> 4867.40] realize the -[4867.40 --> 4868.54] truth of -[4868.54 --> 4868.96] this -[4868.96 --> 4869.92] verse. -[4872.54 --> 4872.90] But for -[4872.90 --> 4873.60] Lord Jones, -[4873.72 --> 4873.96] he would -[4873.96 --> 4874.38] go on to -[4874.38 --> 4874.82] say that -[4874.82 --> 4875.52] if we -[4875.52 --> 4876.34] forget this -[4876.34 --> 4876.86] truth, -[4877.54 --> 4878.32] what happens -[4878.32 --> 4878.74] is that we -[4878.74 --> 4879.58] feel more -[4879.58 --> 4880.04] guilt, -[4880.44 --> 4880.82] we feel -[4880.82 --> 4881.68] despair and -[4881.68 --> 4882.30] unworthiness, -[4882.38 --> 4882.78] and we feel -[4882.78 --> 4883.52] more pain -[4883.52 --> 4884.02] than we -[4884.02 --> 4884.36] should. -[4885.24 --> 4885.90] And sometimes -[4885.90 --> 4886.50] that will -[4886.50 --> 4887.30] show up in -[4887.30 --> 4887.92] your life -[4887.92 --> 4889.24] with a sense -[4889.24 --> 4889.60] that you -[4889.60 --> 4890.00] need to -[4890.00 --> 4890.94] over-function -[4890.94 --> 4891.56] in your -[4891.56 --> 4891.92] sort of -[4891.92 --> 4892.32] religious -[4892.32 --> 4892.94] selves, -[4893.06 --> 4893.18] right? -[4893.20 --> 4893.34] That we -[4893.34 --> 4893.54] have to -[4893.54 --> 4893.94] prove -[4893.94 --> 4894.36] ourselves -[4894.36 --> 4894.94] to God -[4894.94 --> 4895.66] over and -[4895.66 --> 4896.06] over and -[4896.06 --> 4896.64] over again, -[4896.86 --> 4897.04] and we -[4897.04 --> 4897.22] have to -[4897.22 --> 4898.06] bear that -[4898.06 --> 4898.36] burden. -[4899.42 --> 4899.76] This was -[4899.76 --> 4900.28] the burden -[4900.28 --> 4900.80] that Martin -[4900.80 --> 4901.46] Luther bore -[4901.46 --> 4902.14] that spurred -[4902.14 --> 4902.74] the Reformation. -[4903.92 --> 4904.54] But not -[4904.54 --> 4905.08] just in -[4905.08 --> 4905.26] our -[4905.26 --> 4905.68] religious -[4905.68 --> 4906.30] selves, -[4906.72 --> 4906.92] okay, -[4907.32 --> 4908.04] but also -[4908.04 --> 4908.40] in our -[4908.40 --> 4908.92] emotional -[4908.92 --> 4909.30] selves, -[4909.38 --> 4909.62] in our -[4909.62 --> 4910.04] mental -[4910.04 --> 4910.68] health -[4910.68 --> 4911.32] categories. -[4911.62 --> 4912.16] When we -[4912.16 --> 4912.96] forget that -[4912.96 --> 4913.28] there is -[4913.28 --> 4913.80] now no -[4913.80 --> 4914.48] condemnation -[4914.48 --> 4915.00] for those -[4915.00 --> 4915.74] who are -[4915.74 --> 4916.12] in Christ -[4916.12 --> 4916.38] Jesus, -[4916.58 --> 4917.14] you might -[4917.14 --> 4917.76] develop a -[4917.76 --> 4918.64] hypersensitivity -[4918.64 --> 4919.44] to criticism. -[4921.30 --> 4921.70] You might -[4921.70 --> 4922.34] get defensive -[4922.34 --> 4923.20] at the -[4923.20 --> 4924.06] first challenge -[4924.06 --> 4924.70] to who -[4924.70 --> 4925.20] you are. -[4926.64 --> 4927.46] When we -[4927.46 --> 4928.06] forget, -[4928.22 --> 4928.52] you might -[4928.52 --> 4928.80] lack -[4928.80 --> 4929.44] confidence -[4929.44 --> 4930.24] in your -[4930.24 --> 4931.00] relationships. -[4932.04 --> 4932.28] And I -[4932.28 --> 4932.54] want to be -[4932.54 --> 4933.14] careful with -[4933.14 --> 4933.38] what I'm -[4933.38 --> 4933.68] about to -[4933.68 --> 4933.82] say, -[4933.94 --> 4934.94] but be -[4934.94 --> 4935.52] discerning, -[4935.88 --> 4936.82] but even -[4936.82 --> 4937.68] addictive -[4937.68 --> 4938.50] behaviors, -[4939.10 --> 4939.28] right, -[4939.30 --> 4939.64] which can -[4939.64 --> 4940.38] sometimes be -[4940.38 --> 4941.00] rooted in a -[4941.00 --> 4941.46] deep sense -[4941.46 --> 4941.86] of guilt -[4941.86 --> 4942.70] or unworthiness -[4942.70 --> 4943.74] can be the -[4943.74 --> 4944.58] result of -[4944.58 --> 4945.24] forgetting, -[4945.92 --> 4946.10] right, -[4946.10 --> 4946.52] that there is -[4946.52 --> 4947.08] now no -[4947.08 --> 4947.84] condemnation -[4947.84 --> 4948.52] for those -[4948.52 --> 4948.98] who are in -[4948.98 --> 4949.54] Christ Jesus. -[4952.66 --> 4953.68] But also, -[4953.98 --> 4954.72] on the other -[4954.72 --> 4955.18] hand, -[4955.76 --> 4955.94] right, -[4956.00 --> 4956.80] if you forget -[4956.80 --> 4957.84] this truth, -[4958.16 --> 4958.96] there's also -[4958.96 --> 4959.82] far less -[4959.82 --> 4960.68] motivation, -[4961.16 --> 4961.72] far less -[4961.72 --> 4962.60] inspiration -[4962.60 --> 4963.30] towards -[4963.30 --> 4964.34] holy living, -[4965.22 --> 4965.36] right? -[4965.38 --> 4965.70] If we -[4965.70 --> 4966.54] only ever -[4966.54 --> 4967.64] obey God -[4967.64 --> 4968.10] out of -[4968.10 --> 4968.84] fear or -[4968.84 --> 4969.24] out of -[4969.24 --> 4969.54] duty, -[4969.86 --> 4970.40] we miss -[4970.40 --> 4970.90] this sense -[4970.90 --> 4971.58] of gratitude -[4971.58 --> 4972.76] and love -[4972.76 --> 4973.46] that can -[4973.46 --> 4973.80] be a -[4973.80 --> 4974.32] motivation -[4974.32 --> 4975.10] when we -[4975.10 --> 4975.68] recognize -[4975.68 --> 4976.34] that there's -[4976.34 --> 4977.52] no condemnation -[4977.52 --> 4978.22] for those -[4978.22 --> 4978.50] of us -[4978.50 --> 4978.78] who are -[4978.78 --> 4979.22] in Christ -[4979.22 --> 4979.50] Jesus. -[4979.62 --> 4979.82] And so, -[4979.88 --> 4980.42] we thank -[4980.42 --> 4980.74] Him -[4980.74 --> 4981.44] with our -[4981.44 --> 4981.86] lives. -[4982.40 --> 4982.84] When we -[4982.84 --> 4983.56] grasp the -[4983.56 --> 4984.48] full wonder -[4984.48 --> 4985.60] and majesty -[4985.60 --> 4986.26] of this -[4986.26 --> 4986.62] truth, -[4986.92 --> 4987.30] you will -[4987.30 --> 4987.92] long to -[4987.92 --> 4988.50] walk in -[4988.50 --> 4988.92] holiness -[4988.92 --> 4989.66] with God. -[4989.90 --> 4990.26] You will -[4990.26 --> 4990.74] long to -[4990.74 --> 4991.36] live as -[4991.36 --> 4992.28] God wants -[4992.28 --> 4992.62] you to -[4992.62 --> 4993.12] live because -[4993.12 --> 4993.62] of what -[4993.62 --> 4994.48] He has -[4994.48 --> 4995.74] given us, -[4995.92 --> 4996.40] adoption -[4996.40 --> 4997.80] as sons. -[4999.70 --> 4999.94] Now, -[5000.00 --> 5000.36] we will -[5000.36 --> 5001.76] fall short -[5001.76 --> 5002.50] and we -[5002.50 --> 5003.08] will struggle, -[5003.48 --> 5004.02] but we -[5004.02 --> 5004.98] will move -[5004.98 --> 5005.82] forward. -[5007.24 --> 5007.80] This is the -[5007.80 --> 5008.18] point of -[5008.18 --> 5009.36] verse 5, -[5010.24 --> 5011.06] where we -[5011.06 --> 5011.28] read, -[5011.28 --> 5011.76] those who -[5011.76 --> 5012.42] live according -[5012.42 --> 5012.78] to the -[5012.78 --> 5013.40] flesh have -[5013.40 --> 5014.06] their mindset -[5014.06 --> 5014.64] on what -[5014.64 --> 5015.08] the flesh -[5015.08 --> 5015.62] desires, -[5016.04 --> 5016.54] but those -[5016.54 --> 5017.10] who live in -[5017.10 --> 5017.64] accordance with -[5017.64 --> 5018.24] the Spirit -[5018.24 --> 5018.88] have their -[5018.88 --> 5019.74] mindset on -[5019.74 --> 5020.12] what the -[5020.12 --> 5020.52] Spirit -[5020.52 --> 5021.60] desires. -[5022.64 --> 5023.16] To be -[5023.16 --> 5023.84] a son -[5023.84 --> 5024.48] is to -[5024.48 --> 5025.42] live as -[5025.42 --> 5026.10] a son, -[5027.18 --> 5028.12] no longer -[5028.12 --> 5028.84] as a -[5028.84 --> 5029.16] slave, -[5029.92 --> 5030.94] which brings -[5030.94 --> 5031.58] us to our -[5031.58 --> 5032.22] second point -[5032.22 --> 5032.60] here, that -[5032.60 --> 5033.22] we are all -[5033.22 --> 5034.22] sons and so -[5034.22 --> 5035.08] our minds -[5035.08 --> 5036.04] are set on -[5036.04 --> 5036.56] what the -[5036.56 --> 5036.92] Spirit -[5036.92 --> 5038.30] desires. -[5039.72 --> 5039.90] Now, -[5039.92 --> 5040.22] what does it -[5040.22 --> 5040.58] mean to -[5040.58 --> 5040.88] have your -[5040.88 --> 5041.80] mind set -[5041.80 --> 5042.90] on something -[5042.90 --> 5043.32] or to -[5043.32 --> 5043.60] have your -[5043.60 --> 5044.70] mind governed -[5044.70 --> 5045.98] by something? -[5045.98 --> 5047.64] To have -[5047.64 --> 5048.00] your mind -[5048.00 --> 5048.56] set on -[5048.56 --> 5049.16] something or -[5049.16 --> 5049.96] governed by -[5049.96 --> 5050.60] something is -[5050.60 --> 5051.28] to think -[5051.28 --> 5052.68] intently and -[5052.68 --> 5054.38] intensely about -[5054.38 --> 5055.04] it, is to be -[5055.04 --> 5056.66] totally captivated -[5056.66 --> 5057.50] by it. -[5058.24 --> 5059.22] Paul, here in -[5059.22 --> 5059.92] our text, is -[5059.92 --> 5060.72] making a very -[5060.72 --> 5061.40] clear and -[5061.40 --> 5062.14] straight line -[5062.14 --> 5062.92] between right -[5062.92 --> 5064.00] thinking and -[5064.00 --> 5064.80] right living. -[5065.00 --> 5065.34] There's a -[5065.34 --> 5065.86] connected -[5065.86 --> 5067.02] relationship between -[5067.02 --> 5068.08] our orthodoxy, -[5068.14 --> 5068.52] that is, our -[5068.52 --> 5069.36] right doctrines, -[5069.50 --> 5069.98] and our -[5069.98 --> 5070.74] orthopraxy, -[5070.88 --> 5071.24] that is, our -[5071.24 --> 5072.10] right doing. -[5072.72 --> 5073.74] Our cognition -[5073.74 --> 5074.44] and our -[5074.44 --> 5075.76] behavior are -[5075.76 --> 5076.16] related. -[5077.54 --> 5078.12] Paul is -[5078.12 --> 5078.62] saying that -[5078.62 --> 5079.30] to be a -[5079.30 --> 5080.06] son, to be -[5080.06 --> 5080.76] an heir and -[5080.76 --> 5081.46] co-heir with -[5081.46 --> 5082.52] Christ, means -[5082.52 --> 5083.28] to have your -[5083.28 --> 5085.02] mind captivated, -[5085.36 --> 5086.18] full of the -[5086.18 --> 5087.10] things of God, -[5087.38 --> 5087.96] the things of -[5087.96 --> 5088.38] the Spirit. -[5089.72 --> 5090.14] Now, again, -[5090.82 --> 5092.28] sometimes you -[5092.28 --> 5093.46] will hear people -[5093.46 --> 5094.30] say of -[5094.30 --> 5095.82] Christians that -[5095.82 --> 5096.62] they are so -[5096.62 --> 5097.58] heavenly minded -[5097.58 --> 5098.22] that they're of -[5098.22 --> 5098.84] no earthly -[5098.84 --> 5099.20] good. -[5100.44 --> 5101.32] That's not what -[5101.32 --> 5101.72] we're talking -[5101.72 --> 5102.26] about here. -[5103.74 --> 5104.34] In fact, -[5104.68 --> 5105.28] what I believe -[5105.28 --> 5105.98] Paul is -[5105.98 --> 5106.72] saying is that -[5106.72 --> 5107.74] when you focus -[5107.74 --> 5108.48] on the -[5108.48 --> 5109.10] goodness of -[5109.10 --> 5109.60] God, when -[5109.60 --> 5110.44] you focus on -[5110.44 --> 5112.06] glorifying God -[5112.06 --> 5112.54] in all that -[5112.54 --> 5113.00] you do and -[5113.00 --> 5113.40] in all that -[5113.40 --> 5113.80] you say, -[5114.12 --> 5114.84] your impact -[5114.84 --> 5115.74] in the world -[5115.74 --> 5116.64] will be greater -[5116.64 --> 5117.22] than it has -[5117.22 --> 5117.86] any right to -[5117.86 --> 5119.04] be because you -[5119.04 --> 5119.56] will be a -[5119.56 --> 5120.18] vehicle for -[5120.18 --> 5120.92] God's work -[5120.92 --> 5121.78] in the world -[5121.78 --> 5122.54] through you. -[5124.82 --> 5125.50] And then, -[5125.80 --> 5126.54] I think that -[5126.54 --> 5127.76] this is about -[5127.76 --> 5128.70] the attitude -[5128.70 --> 5130.80] of your mind. -[5130.80 --> 5132.28] it's about -[5132.28 --> 5132.64] what you -[5132.64 --> 5133.56] truly and -[5133.56 --> 5134.14] genuinely -[5134.14 --> 5135.18] love. -[5135.28 --> 5135.76] This is about -[5135.76 --> 5136.30] what you are -[5136.30 --> 5138.30] captivated by. -[5140.10 --> 5141.28] William Temple -[5141.28 --> 5143.18] was the -[5143.18 --> 5144.18] Archbishop of -[5144.18 --> 5145.18] Canterbury in -[5145.18 --> 5145.72] the Church of -[5145.72 --> 5146.38] England from -[5146.38 --> 5147.90] 1942 to -[5147.90 --> 5148.90] 1944. -[5150.02 --> 5150.62] So, that's -[5150.62 --> 5152.00] right in the -[5152.00 --> 5152.60] heart of -[5152.60 --> 5153.18] World War II. -[5154.04 --> 5154.76] And he said, -[5154.76 --> 5156.38] your religion -[5156.38 --> 5157.24] is what you -[5157.24 --> 5158.22] do in your -[5158.22 --> 5158.82] solitude. -[5160.70 --> 5161.34] What do -[5161.34 --> 5161.72] he mean by -[5161.72 --> 5161.98] that? -[5163.16 --> 5163.36] Right? -[5163.98 --> 5165.24] Whenever you -[5165.24 --> 5166.36] are alone -[5166.36 --> 5167.32] or wherever -[5167.32 --> 5168.34] your mind -[5168.34 --> 5168.98] goes, when -[5168.98 --> 5169.40] there's nothing -[5169.40 --> 5169.80] else to -[5169.80 --> 5170.60] distract it, -[5170.94 --> 5171.52] wherever your -[5171.52 --> 5172.26] mind goes, -[5172.34 --> 5172.64] when there's -[5172.64 --> 5173.10] nothing else -[5173.10 --> 5173.64] to keep you -[5173.64 --> 5175.22] busy, that's -[5175.22 --> 5175.64] what you -[5175.64 --> 5176.18] really live -[5176.18 --> 5176.46] for. -[5178.10 --> 5178.50] Whatever -[5178.50 --> 5179.58] occupies your -[5179.58 --> 5180.76] mind shapes -[5180.76 --> 5181.46] your life. -[5182.88 --> 5183.30] That's why -[5183.30 --> 5183.86] someone like -[5183.86 --> 5184.72] Jonathan Peugeot -[5184.72 --> 5185.82] calls worship -[5185.82 --> 5186.60] attention. -[5187.64 --> 5188.18] What are you -[5188.18 --> 5188.60] giving your -[5188.60 --> 5189.50] attention to? -[5191.18 --> 5192.20] The mind -[5192.20 --> 5192.86] governed by -[5192.86 --> 5193.52] the Spirit -[5193.52 --> 5194.88] is life -[5194.88 --> 5196.86] and peace. -[5199.24 --> 5200.02] Be -[5200.02 --> 5200.94] captivated -[5200.94 --> 5202.60] by the -[5202.60 --> 5202.94] Spirit. -[5203.62 --> 5203.92] Give your -[5203.92 --> 5205.18] attention to -[5205.18 --> 5205.64] the things -[5205.64 --> 5206.38] of God -[5206.38 --> 5207.46] and see -[5207.46 --> 5208.54] what He -[5208.54 --> 5209.24] might do -[5209.24 --> 5210.58] in and -[5210.58 --> 5211.10] through you. -[5212.08 --> 5212.42] And then -[5212.42 --> 5212.76] lastly, -[5212.76 --> 5213.50] our final -[5213.50 --> 5214.24] point. -[5214.72 --> 5216.44] we are -[5216.44 --> 5217.34] all sons -[5217.34 --> 5218.28] and so -[5218.28 --> 5218.86] we put -[5218.86 --> 5219.62] sin to -[5219.62 --> 5220.00] death -[5220.00 --> 5221.08] in our -[5221.08 --> 5221.44] lives. -[5223.02 --> 5223.70] This is -[5223.70 --> 5224.04] verse -[5224.04 --> 5225.18] 12 -[5225.18 --> 5226.82] and 13. -[5228.18 --> 5228.48] Therefore, -[5228.86 --> 5229.40] brothers and -[5229.40 --> 5229.74] sisters, -[5229.92 --> 5230.46] we have an -[5230.46 --> 5231.04] obligation, -[5231.30 --> 5231.64] but it is -[5231.64 --> 5232.16] not to the -[5232.16 --> 5232.66] flesh to -[5232.66 --> 5233.10] live according -[5233.10 --> 5233.48] to it. -[5233.76 --> 5234.38] For if you -[5234.38 --> 5234.96] live according -[5234.96 --> 5235.36] to the -[5235.36 --> 5235.68] flesh, -[5235.76 --> 5236.16] you will -[5236.16 --> 5236.48] die. -[5236.74 --> 5237.34] But if -[5237.34 --> 5237.84] by the -[5237.84 --> 5238.46] Spirit you -[5238.46 --> 5238.94] put to -[5238.94 --> 5239.46] death the -[5239.46 --> 5240.04] misdeeds -[5240.04 --> 5240.42] of the -[5240.42 --> 5240.76] body, -[5240.76 --> 5242.02] you will -[5242.02 --> 5242.84] live. -[5244.16 --> 5244.50] Now, -[5244.52 --> 5245.12] this idea -[5245.12 --> 5245.78] of putting -[5245.78 --> 5246.38] to death -[5246.38 --> 5247.22] the misdeeds -[5247.22 --> 5247.66] of the -[5247.66 --> 5248.52] body is -[5248.52 --> 5248.80] what -[5248.80 --> 5250.16] theologians -[5250.16 --> 5250.72] call, -[5250.84 --> 5251.30] or at least -[5251.30 --> 5251.84] used to -[5251.84 --> 5252.16] call, -[5252.54 --> 5253.38] mortification. -[5254.48 --> 5254.68] Now, -[5254.68 --> 5255.00] some of you -[5255.00 --> 5255.20] have been -[5255.20 --> 5255.60] around the -[5255.60 --> 5256.20] church long -[5256.20 --> 5256.82] enough to -[5256.82 --> 5257.68] have grown -[5257.68 --> 5258.36] up reading -[5258.36 --> 5258.86] the King -[5258.86 --> 5259.54] James Version -[5259.54 --> 5259.98] of the -[5259.98 --> 5260.28] Bible. -[5260.84 --> 5261.46] The King -[5261.46 --> 5262.16] James Version -[5262.16 --> 5262.46] of the -[5262.46 --> 5262.70] Bible -[5262.70 --> 5263.42] translates -[5263.42 --> 5264.36] verse 13 -[5264.36 --> 5265.42] like this. -[5265.42 --> 5265.92] It says, -[5266.14 --> 5266.60] If ye -[5266.60 --> 5267.26] through the -[5267.26 --> 5267.94] Spirit do -[5267.94 --> 5268.84] mortify the -[5268.84 --> 5269.36] deeds of -[5269.36 --> 5269.80] the body, -[5270.16 --> 5270.86] ye shall -[5270.86 --> 5271.44] live. -[5272.22 --> 5272.84] That's that -[5272.84 --> 5273.16] word, -[5273.60 --> 5274.18] mortify. -[5275.42 --> 5275.60] All right, -[5275.66 --> 5276.08] verse 12 -[5276.08 --> 5276.60] and 13 -[5276.60 --> 5277.26] tell us -[5277.26 --> 5277.46] what -[5277.46 --> 5278.42] mortification -[5278.42 --> 5279.48] is, -[5279.66 --> 5279.96] what it -[5279.96 --> 5280.48] means to -[5280.48 --> 5281.10] put to -[5281.10 --> 5281.62] death -[5281.62 --> 5282.90] these -[5282.90 --> 5283.70] misdeeds -[5283.70 --> 5284.50] of the -[5284.50 --> 5284.80] body. -[5285.40 --> 5285.62] And so -[5285.62 --> 5286.04] first, -[5286.20 --> 5286.62] it means -[5286.62 --> 5287.98] total and -[5287.98 --> 5288.66] full-hearted, -[5289.04 --> 5289.36] it means -[5289.36 --> 5290.74] complete and -[5290.74 --> 5291.56] violent and -[5291.56 --> 5292.26] forceful -[5292.26 --> 5293.52] rejection of -[5293.52 --> 5294.60] everything you -[5294.60 --> 5295.22] know to -[5295.22 --> 5295.82] be wrong -[5295.82 --> 5296.44] in your -[5296.44 --> 5296.84] life. -[5298.06 --> 5298.60] And make -[5298.60 --> 5298.94] sure you -[5298.94 --> 5299.28] hear that -[5299.28 --> 5299.72] last bit, -[5299.78 --> 5299.94] right? -[5300.14 --> 5300.40] Because -[5300.40 --> 5301.96] mortification -[5301.96 --> 5303.08] is something -[5303.08 --> 5304.16] you do -[5304.16 --> 5304.96] in your -[5304.96 --> 5305.42] life, -[5306.10 --> 5307.30] not in -[5307.30 --> 5307.58] the lives -[5307.58 --> 5307.86] of other -[5307.86 --> 5308.12] people. -[5309.54 --> 5310.28] It's not -[5310.28 --> 5310.74] your job -[5310.74 --> 5311.50] to mortify -[5311.50 --> 5312.64] other people's -[5312.64 --> 5313.40] misdeeds. -[5314.48 --> 5315.20] That's for -[5315.20 --> 5315.42] them. -[5316.34 --> 5316.98] That's not -[5316.98 --> 5317.14] your -[5317.14 --> 5317.76] responsibility. -[5319.96 --> 5320.72] But it -[5320.72 --> 5321.38] does mean, -[5321.52 --> 5322.18] as Tim -[5322.18 --> 5323.08] Keller has -[5323.08 --> 5323.34] said, -[5323.66 --> 5324.38] that a -[5324.38 --> 5324.72] Christian -[5325.22 --> 5325.54] doesn't play -[5325.54 --> 5326.30] games with -[5326.30 --> 5326.56] sin. -[5327.10 --> 5327.46] You don't -[5327.46 --> 5327.94] aim to -[5327.94 --> 5328.36] wean -[5328.36 --> 5328.84] yourself -[5328.84 --> 5329.32] off of -[5329.32 --> 5329.60] it or -[5329.60 --> 5329.94] say, -[5330.44 --> 5330.64] I can -[5330.64 --> 5330.98] keep it -[5330.98 --> 5331.16] under -[5331.16 --> 5331.58] control. -[5331.78 --> 5332.16] You get -[5332.16 --> 5332.56] as far -[5332.56 --> 5333.00] away from -[5333.00 --> 5333.22] it as -[5333.22 --> 5333.68] possible. -[5335.10 --> 5335.58] This isn't -[5335.58 --> 5336.16] a game, -[5336.30 --> 5336.82] this is -[5336.82 --> 5337.20] war. -[5338.52 --> 5339.16] Too many -[5339.16 --> 5339.58] of us -[5339.58 --> 5340.30] overestimate -[5340.30 --> 5340.94] our power -[5340.94 --> 5341.52] over sin. -[5342.60 --> 5343.20] You have -[5343.20 --> 5343.44] none. -[5344.38 --> 5344.76] That all -[5344.76 --> 5345.10] comes from -[5345.10 --> 5345.34] God. -[5347.10 --> 5347.74] And here's -[5347.74 --> 5348.04] the real -[5348.04 --> 5349.54] power of -[5349.54 --> 5350.20] mortification. -[5351.12 --> 5351.84] The process -[5351.84 --> 5352.76] of mortification -[5352.76 --> 5353.70] goes deeper -[5353.70 --> 5354.34] than just -[5354.34 --> 5355.18] resisting -[5355.18 --> 5355.88] sinful -[5355.88 --> 5356.62] behavior. -[5357.28 --> 5357.96] Mortification -[5357.96 --> 5359.14] remembers -[5359.14 --> 5360.06] the gospel. -[5360.68 --> 5361.30] Mortification -[5361.30 --> 5362.02] remembers, -[5362.32 --> 5362.78] remember the -[5362.78 --> 5363.24] first verse, -[5363.50 --> 5363.84] that there is -[5363.84 --> 5364.38] now no -[5364.38 --> 5365.08] condemnation -[5365.08 --> 5365.74] for those -[5365.74 --> 5366.04] who are -[5366.04 --> 5366.44] in Christ -[5366.44 --> 5366.78] Jesus. -[5367.10 --> 5367.70] Mortification -[5367.70 --> 5368.48] applies the -[5368.48 --> 5369.16] gospel truth -[5369.16 --> 5369.80] that by grace -[5369.80 --> 5370.26] through faith -[5370.26 --> 5371.20] you have died -[5371.20 --> 5371.66] with him -[5371.66 --> 5372.10] and you have -[5372.10 --> 5372.92] been raised -[5372.92 --> 5373.32] with him -[5373.32 --> 5374.08] in newness -[5374.08 --> 5375.10] of life. -[5376.18 --> 5376.82] Putting to -[5376.82 --> 5377.30] death the -[5377.30 --> 5378.04] misdeeds of -[5378.04 --> 5378.74] the flesh -[5378.74 --> 5379.76] only works -[5379.76 --> 5380.24] if, -[5380.54 --> 5381.08] you look -[5381.08 --> 5381.44] at verse -[5381.44 --> 5381.94] 11, -[5382.98 --> 5383.94] if the -[5383.94 --> 5384.50] spirit of -[5384.50 --> 5384.88] him who -[5384.88 --> 5385.58] raised Jesus -[5385.58 --> 5386.00] from the -[5386.00 --> 5386.48] dead is -[5386.48 --> 5387.40] living in -[5387.40 --> 5387.84] you, -[5388.08 --> 5388.70] he who -[5388.70 --> 5389.52] raised Christ -[5389.52 --> 5389.86] from the -[5389.86 --> 5390.28] dead will -[5390.28 --> 5390.92] also give -[5390.92 --> 5391.44] life to -[5391.44 --> 5391.96] your mortal -[5391.96 --> 5392.94] bodies because -[5392.94 --> 5393.36] of his -[5393.36 --> 5394.06] spirit who -[5394.06 --> 5395.08] lives in -[5395.08 --> 5395.68] you. -[5397.00 --> 5397.76] The way -[5397.76 --> 5398.60] of Christian -[5398.60 --> 5399.76] living is -[5399.76 --> 5400.56] the way of -[5400.56 --> 5401.22] putting to -[5401.22 --> 5402.12] death the -[5402.12 --> 5402.92] old and -[5402.92 --> 5404.04] living out -[5404.04 --> 5404.86] of the -[5404.86 --> 5405.10] new. -[5405.10 --> 5408.42] you can -[5408.42 --> 5409.40] break sin's -[5409.40 --> 5410.68] power over -[5410.68 --> 5411.44] you because -[5411.44 --> 5413.42] sin itself -[5413.42 --> 5414.24] has been -[5414.24 --> 5414.64] broken. -[5416.04 --> 5416.64] He who -[5416.64 --> 5417.30] knew no -[5417.30 --> 5418.14] sin became -[5418.14 --> 5419.56] sin for -[5419.56 --> 5420.62] us that -[5420.62 --> 5421.58] we might -[5421.58 --> 5422.58] become the -[5422.58 --> 5423.20] righteousness -[5423.20 --> 5425.04] of God. -[5427.34 --> 5428.62] Jesus has -[5428.62 --> 5429.52] made you a -[5429.52 --> 5430.70] son like -[5430.70 --> 5431.42] him. -[5432.58 --> 5433.24] God, -[5433.34 --> 5433.46] your -[5433.46 --> 5434.00] father, -[5434.56 --> 5435.04] Abba, -[5435.10 --> 5435.98] has made -[5435.98 --> 5436.48] you an -[5436.48 --> 5437.72] heir with -[5437.72 --> 5438.40] him. -[5439.24 --> 5439.82] He has -[5439.82 --> 5440.34] crippled -[5440.34 --> 5440.94] sin's -[5440.94 --> 5442.00] power in -[5442.00 --> 5442.60] your life -[5442.60 --> 5443.28] and so -[5443.28 --> 5444.02] put it to -[5444.02 --> 5444.42] death. -[5444.84 --> 5445.58] Mortify it. -[5445.70 --> 5446.54] Wage war -[5446.54 --> 5447.90] against that -[5447.90 --> 5448.50] sin. -[5449.78 --> 5450.32] And yes, -[5450.44 --> 5450.94] in this -[5450.94 --> 5451.36] life, -[5451.66 --> 5452.28] in this -[5452.28 --> 5452.86] world, -[5453.08 --> 5453.54] whether it's -[5453.54 --> 5454.10] because we -[5454.10 --> 5454.52] live in an -[5454.52 --> 5454.94] increasingly -[5454.94 --> 5455.70] post-Christian -[5455.70 --> 5456.70] world or -[5456.70 --> 5457.12] it's just -[5457.12 --> 5457.48] because, -[5457.66 --> 5458.08] as Jesus -[5458.08 --> 5458.50] said, -[5458.56 --> 5458.94] in this -[5458.94 --> 5459.64] world you -[5459.64 --> 5459.98] will have -[5459.98 --> 5460.88] trouble or -[5460.88 --> 5461.44] it's because -[5461.44 --> 5461.98] we are -[5461.98 --> 5462.82] human in -[5462.82 --> 5463.28] this world -[5463.28 --> 5463.60] and there -[5463.60 --> 5463.98] are things -[5463.98 --> 5464.62] like illnesses -[5464.62 --> 5465.34] and disease -[5465.34 --> 5466.08] and cancers -[5466.08 --> 5466.96] and struggles -[5466.96 --> 5467.70] and trials -[5467.70 --> 5468.60] and tribulations -[5468.60 --> 5469.28] that we've -[5469.28 --> 5469.74] faced. -[5469.82 --> 5470.24] The truth -[5470.24 --> 5470.80] is that -[5470.80 --> 5471.74] all of us -[5471.74 --> 5472.20] who long -[5472.20 --> 5472.52] to be -[5472.52 --> 5472.98] faithful to -[5472.98 --> 5473.22] Jesus -[5473.22 --> 5474.48] will suffer. -[5475.32 --> 5476.06] In 2 Timothy -[5476.06 --> 5476.60] 3, -[5476.72 --> 5477.24] Paul writes, -[5477.42 --> 5478.06] everyone who -[5478.06 --> 5478.68] wants to live -[5478.68 --> 5479.42] a godly life -[5479.42 --> 5479.86] in Christ -[5479.86 --> 5480.82] Jesus will -[5480.82 --> 5481.68] be persecuted. -[5482.48 --> 5483.14] But the -[5483.14 --> 5484.04] suffering is -[5484.04 --> 5484.82] not the -[5484.82 --> 5485.38] end of -[5485.38 --> 5486.06] the story. -[5487.10 --> 5487.72] The suffering -[5487.72 --> 5488.30] is not the -[5488.30 --> 5488.70] end of the -[5488.70 --> 5489.04] story. -[5489.04 --> 5489.46] And so -[5489.46 --> 5490.88] wherever you -[5490.88 --> 5491.54] are in -[5491.54 --> 5492.08] this journey -[5492.08 --> 5492.50] of life -[5492.50 --> 5492.94] and faith -[5492.94 --> 5493.68] right now, -[5494.32 --> 5494.96] remember -[5494.96 --> 5495.94] this. -[5496.04 --> 5496.28] And we're -[5496.28 --> 5496.46] going to -[5496.46 --> 5496.90] give the -[5496.90 --> 5497.66] last word -[5497.66 --> 5498.58] to God -[5498.58 --> 5499.46] this morning. -[5500.56 --> 5501.70] Verse 17, -[5502.90 --> 5503.54] we share -[5503.54 --> 5504.06] in his -[5504.06 --> 5504.88] sufferings -[5504.88 --> 5505.96] in order -[5505.96 --> 5506.40] that we -[5506.40 --> 5507.08] may also -[5507.08 --> 5507.72] share -[5507.72 --> 5509.08] in his -[5509.08 --> 5510.28] glory. -[5511.38 --> 5512.02] Soli -[5512.02 --> 5512.68] Deo -[5512.68 --> 5513.40] Gloria. -[5514.04 --> 5514.66] To God -[5514.66 --> 5515.32] alone -[5515.32 --> 5516.54] be the -[5516.54 --> 5516.92] glory. -[5517.60 --> 5517.90] Amen. -[5517.90 --> 5519.28] Let's -[5519.28 --> 5519.80] pray together. -[5526.32 --> 5527.08] Holy, -[5527.82 --> 5528.16] holy -[5528.16 --> 5528.56] God, -[5529.16 --> 5530.86] we come -[5530.86 --> 5531.18] to you -[5531.18 --> 5531.74] now because -[5531.74 --> 5532.44] you first -[5532.44 --> 5533.14] came to -[5533.14 --> 5533.54] us. -[5533.70 --> 5534.02] We come -[5534.02 --> 5534.32] to you -[5534.32 --> 5534.82] now because -[5534.82 --> 5535.80] you have -[5535.80 --> 5536.52] promised -[5536.52 --> 5537.46] us -[5537.46 --> 5538.68] slaves -[5538.68 --> 5540.52] adoption -[5540.52 --> 5541.52] as -[5541.52 --> 5541.92] sons. -[5543.34 --> 5544.08] No -[5544.08 --> 5544.52] longer -[5544.52 --> 5545.16] slaves. -[5545.66 --> 5546.16] We are -[5546.16 --> 5546.38] now -[5546.38 --> 5547.14] children -[5547.14 --> 5548.62] of God. -[5549.34 --> 5549.76] This -[5549.76 --> 5550.86] is our -[5550.86 --> 5551.30] hope. -[5551.54 --> 5551.82] You -[5551.82 --> 5552.62] are -[5552.62 --> 5553.56] our -[5553.56 --> 5554.38] hope. -[5555.84 --> 5556.34] And so -[5556.34 --> 5557.66] fill us -[5557.66 --> 5558.50] up with -[5558.50 --> 5558.82] your -[5558.82 --> 5559.30] spirit. -[5560.30 --> 5560.56] Fill -[5560.56 --> 5561.40] us up -[5561.40 --> 5561.68] to -[5561.68 --> 5562.40] overflowing -[5562.40 --> 5562.76] that we -[5562.76 --> 5563.26] might go -[5563.26 --> 5563.78] from this -[5563.78 --> 5564.14] place -[5564.14 --> 5564.94] jubilant -[5564.94 --> 5565.82] with who -[5565.82 --> 5566.32] you are -[5566.32 --> 5566.76] and what -[5566.76 --> 5567.10] you have -[5567.10 --> 5567.40] done. -[5568.82 --> 5569.30] Embolden -[5569.30 --> 5569.74] us, -[5570.08 --> 5570.40] strengthen -[5570.40 --> 5570.80] us, -[5570.94 --> 5571.60] and nourish -[5571.60 --> 5572.04] us, -[5572.22 --> 5572.64] we pray. -[5573.06 --> 5573.48] Whether we -[5573.48 --> 5573.82] are at the -[5573.82 --> 5574.56] beginning of -[5574.56 --> 5575.14] our journey -[5575.14 --> 5575.60] of faith -[5575.60 --> 5576.02] or we -[5576.02 --> 5576.60] are nearing -[5576.60 --> 5577.64] its end -[5577.64 --> 5578.16] in this -[5578.16 --> 5578.56] world, -[5579.16 --> 5579.68] strengthen -[5579.68 --> 5580.64] us for -[5580.64 --> 5581.28] the glory -[5581.28 --> 5582.12] of your -[5582.12 --> 5582.68] name, -[5582.94 --> 5583.46] we pray. -[5584.16 --> 5584.56] We pray -[5584.56 --> 5585.66] this in -[5585.66 --> 5585.96] the name -[5585.96 --> 5586.36] of Lord -[5586.36 --> 5586.70] Jesus -[5586.70 --> 5587.26] Christ, -[5587.40 --> 5587.82] our -[5587.82 --> 5588.68] brother. -[5589.78 --> 5590.24] Amen. -[5590.24 --> 5590.32] Amen. -[5590.32 --> 5590.52] Amen. -[5600.62 --> 5601.18] Why don't -[5601.18 --> 5601.92] you rise -[5601.92 --> 5602.66] up and -[5602.66 --> 5603.12] join us -[5603.12 --> 5603.58] as we -[5603.58 --> 5604.22] offer -[5604.22 --> 5604.46] these -[5604.46 --> 5604.76] words. -[5604.76 --> 5617.28] ____________ -[5617.28 --> 5640.56] You unravel me with a melody -[5640.56 --> 5647.48] You surround me with a song -[5647.48 --> 5654.58] Of deliverance from my enemy -[5654.58 --> 5661.24] Till all my fears are gone -[5661.24 --> 5667.88] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[5667.88 --> 5674.84] I am a child of God -[5674.84 --> 5681.00] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[5681.00 --> 5687.92] I am a child of God -[5697.88 --> 5703.04] From another swoon -[5703.04 --> 5706.84] You have chosen me -[5706.84 --> 5712.26] Love has called my name -[5712.26 --> 5716.22] I've been born again -[5716.22 --> 5721.18] Into your family -[5721.18 --> 5725.18] Your blood flows through my days -[5725.18 --> 5732.14] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[5732.14 --> 5738.10] I am a child of God -[5738.10 --> 5744.10] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[5744.10 --> 5751.10] I am a child of God -[5751.10 --> 5757.06] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[5757.06 --> 5763.20] I am a child of God -[5763.20 --> 5769.06] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[5769.06 --> 5776.02] I am a child of God -[5776.02 --> 5781.98] I am a child of God -[5781.98 --> 5783.82] Okay, please remain calm -[5783.82 --> 5786.44] And exit the building through these doors -[5786.44 --> 5787.40] Right over here -[5787.40 --> 5789.56] Do not exit out the back doors -[5789.56 --> 5792.84] Ushers, please take positions at these doors -[5792.84 --> 5796.46] Parents, your children are already leaving the building -[5796.46 --> 5799.72] Nursery and Children's Worship Time volunteers have them -[5799.72 --> 5803.14] Everyone, please meet at the gathering point -[5803.14 --> 5806.58] North of the playground behind the church -[5806.58 --> 5810.64] Duty elders, please go and check the education wing -[5810.64 --> 5813.12] Ensure that no one is left behind -[5813.12 --> 5816.20] Elders and deacons, once you get outside -[5816.20 --> 5818.12] Please assist those who need it -[5818.12 --> 5819.80] And gather them up together -[5819.80 --> 5823.64] Again, please remain calm -[5823.64 --> 5826.30] And head directly to the gathering point -[5826.30 --> 5829.04] North of the playground -[5829.04 --> 5831.30] Out back -[5831.30 --> 5838.62] Please gather outside -[5838.62 --> 5840.12] If this is only a drill -[5840.12 --> 5842.34] We will conclude with a blessing outside -[5842.34 --> 5853.66] Thanks, Matt -[5853.66 --> 5855.56] Sorry? -[5855.56 --> 5857.10] Yeah -[5857.10 --> 5861.56] Alright, everyone to the back -[5861.56 --> 5862.84] To the gathering point -[5862.84 --> 5863.58] Good job -[5863.58 --> 5867.42] Alright -[5867.42 --> 5869.80] Do we have people doing a walkthrough at the back there? -[5874.66 --> 5876.30] Gary, can you close those doors? -[5877.08 --> 5877.62] Thank you -[5877.62 --> 5877.68] Thank you -[5877.68 --> 5882.46] Thank you -[5887.10 --> 5887.56] Thank you -[5887.56 --> 5887.88] Thank you -[5887.88 --> 5889.78] And very much -[5890.18 --> 5890.34] Can you close the gate -[5890.34 --> 5890.72] And be shocked -[5890.72 --> 5891.28] Cost yourself -[5891.28 --> 5892.20] The name of the -[5892.20 --> 5893.84] wealthy -[5893.84 --> 5894.38] Sean -[5894.38 --> 5894.64] And go to the -[5894.64 --> 5895.60] dead -[5895.60 --> 5896.08] On the floor -[5896.34 --> 5896.52] Operator -[5896.52 --> 5897.64] If there is no -[5897.64 --> 5898.18] Please take ease -[5898.18 --> 5898.62] The debit -[5898.90 --> 5899.82] That way -[5899.82 --> 5900.14] It -[5900.14 --> 5901.04] Kind of -[5901.04 --> 5901.20] Ain't -[5901.20 --> 5901.34] A -[5901.34 --> 5901.82] Multiple -[5901.82 --> 5902.18] If there -[5902.18 --> 5903.02] Not -[5903.02 --> 5903.40] If there is a -[5903.40 --> 5904.56] mid -[5904.56 --> 5904.66] Well -[5904.66 --> 5905.40] Do -[5905.40 --> 5905.92] pavement -[5905.92 --> 5906.08] That way -[5906.08 --> 5906.62] utter -[5906.78 --> 5907.18] What -[5907.62 --> 5909.34] Is there -[5909.34 --> 5909.88] dud -[5910.04 --> 5910.12] What -[5910.14 --> 5910.62] 声 -[5910.92 --> 5911.42] At -[5911.42 --> 5941.40] Thank you. -[5941.42 --> 5971.40] Thank you. -[5971.42 --> 6001.40] Thank you. -[6001.42 --> 6031.40] Thank you. -[6031.42 --> 6061.40] Thank you. -[6061.42 --> 6091.40] Thank you. -[6091.42 --> 6121.40] Thank you. -[6121.42 --> 6151.40] Thank you. -[6151.42 --> 6181.40] Thank you. -[6181.42 --> 6211.40] Thank you. -[6211.42 --> 6241.40] Thank you. -[6241.42 --> 6271.40] Thank you. -[6271.42 --> 6301.40] Thank you. -[6301.42 --> 6331.40] Thank you. -[6331.42 --> 6361.40] Thank you. -[6361.42 --> 6391.40] Thank you. -[6391.42 --> 6421.40] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 6, 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 6, 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 37016d73db537acc598ca1f2c06090bd3e56af74..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 6, 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,166 +0,0 @@ -• Mention of Jesus' power and ability to perform miracles -• Description of various healings and restorations attributed to God/Jesus -• Rebuke against doubting or dismissing God's ability to perform miracles -• Expectation of future miracles and revival -• Expression of faith and belief in God's goodness and love -• Transition into a worship service, including installation of new office bearers and announcements -• Upcoming food drive competition between districts to collect food for Langley Food Bank -• Langley Food Bank is in need of baby food donations -• Children's worship time resumes at the gathering -• Need for volunteers for children's worship time -• Update on Rosarito shoebox drive, no more toque-making needed -• Invitation to live streamed sing-along service tonight at 7:30 PM -• Upcoming summer preaching series "Ask Anything" with pastors answering questions submitted by attendees -• Prayers for spiritual renewal and guidance -• Confession of sins and request for forgiveness -• Assurance of future transformation through Christ -• Praise and worship of God's majesty, love, and greatness -• References to biblical imagery and symbolism (e.g. lion and lamb) -• Introduction to the memory verse for June -• Revelation of the memory verse as similar to one from Deuteronomy 6:5 -• Explanation of why the memory verse sounds familiar -• Jesus' answer in the book of Mark about the greatest commandment -• Plan to use actions to help remember the memory verse -• The importance of remembering and practicing Bible verses -• The Emanuel Memory Verse Challenge, which involves recalling all nine memory verses from October -• Why memorizing scripture is important: for God's words to be in one's head and heart, and to guide behavior in daily life -• How to participate in the challenge: - • Refreshing and reviewing the verses - • Reciting all nine verses as proof of completion -• The memory verse challenge is open to anyone, including kids, teenagers, and adults. -• Prizes will be given for participation. -• The challenge starts tomorrow and ends on June 20th. -• Participants can submit their work at any time during the challenge. -• Today's story comes from the book of Acts and continues the story of Peter. -• King Herod is a new character in the story, different from the one who tried to kill Baby Jesus. -• Peter is arrested and put in prison by King Herod for preaching about Jesus -• Peter's friends pray for him, believing that Jesus is with him and can do wonderful things -• An angel appears to Peter while he is asleep, and the angel tells him to get up and follow him -• The chains holding Peter fall off, and he obeys the angel without saying a word -• The soldiers guarding Peter remain asleep as Peter leaves with the angel -• Peter's escape from prison -• The angel sent by Jesus to rescue Peter -• Peter's reunion with his friends at Mary's house -• The surprise and joy of Peter's friends upon seeing him -• God answering the prayers of Peter's friends -• The consequences for King Herod when he discovered Peter was gone -• The speaker welcomes and thanks the congregation for attending -• A scripture from Hebrews 6 is read, referencing God's justice and remembrance of good work -• Offerings are collected for the church budget and Wellspring UBC Okanagan ministry -• The Kelowna CRC's mission to equip and encourage students and staff to be lifelong disciples of Jesus is mentioned -• Next week's offering will be for Teen Challenge -• Rules for giving offerings, including one clarification on designating funds for specific purposes -• A prayer is given by the serving elder -• Discovery of 215 children buried on a former residential school site in Kamloops -• Emotion and questions raised by the discovery -• Prayers for peace, reparation, and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples -• Comfort and strength prayed for Amy Bongers and her family after losing her mother to COVID-19 -• Prayers for others who have lost loved ones -• Reflection on the power of God's resurrection and the impact of death -• Thanks given for John Denhan's recovery from a heart attack -• Prayers for Pearl as she cares for John during his recovery -• Prayers for those in the congregation recovering from surgery -• Praying for leadership and volunteers in the church -• Requesting a spirit of patience, cooperation, and working together during changes -• Praying for those isolated or experiencing loneliness, depression, anxiety, illness, or hardships -• Asking for strength, encouragement, and protection for COVID patients and caregivers -• Requesting perseverance and stamina for medical professionals and frontline workers -• Thanking God for declining COVID case numbers in the province -• Expressing hope for a continued decline into summer months -• Giving thanks for things opening up again and giving people a sense of normalcy -• Praying for all to have patience, practice safety measures, and be considerate of others -• Requesting protection and blessing for staff and students in schools -• Discussion of prayer for hearts to hear and apply God's word -• Mention of Kevin's prayer and added voices in mourning with Indigenous Canadians -• Church is not silent, many voices and efforts are coming out of the church -• Resources made available on the bulletin, including a ministry update from Tim and Charity Johnson -• Statement and response from Christian Reformed Church on Indigenous issues -• Prayer and statement from an Indigenous leader in their community and church -• The importance of coming to God's word and reflecting on what it says -• Reading James 5 together, starting at verse 13 and going through the end of the book -• Practical advice for dealing with trouble, happiness, sickness, and sin -• The power of prayer and confession in healing and forgiveness -• The speaker discusses the topic of making a list to manage tasks and responsibilities -• They mention that making a list is not as simple as just writing down what needs to be done, but rather involves prioritizing and organizing tasks effectively -• The speaker also shares their own struggles with making lists and their wife's expertise in creating organized and categorized lists -• Examples are given of the speaker's and their wife's experiences with moving to a new country and managing their belongings through itemized lists. -• Packing and moving into a new country -• Filling out customs paperwork at the border -• Organizing possessions with color-coded lists and binders -• The experience of having a smooth border crossing -• Reflection on the process of working through a book or task from start to finish -• Importance of making faith real through being "healers and doers" of the Word -• James' teaching on faith without deeds is dead (James) -• The fruit of a real faith: doing what God says -• Jesus' teachings on recognizing people by their fruit (Matthew 7) -• The importance of modeling Christian behavior in everyday life -• The role of the Holy Spirit in producing love, joy, peace, patience, etc. in believers -• The connection between Christian living and telling a story of faith to others -• The importance of being different as a follower of Jesus -• The danger of reducing faith to a checklist of behaviors and attitudes -• The need for heart transformation over mere obedience to rules -• Christian living is not about managing checklists, but rather having checks and balances in life and faith -• Five key principles for balanced Christian living: prayer, praise, belonging to a people, practicing confession, and practicing discipleship -• James' teaching on prayer and faith -• A personal story of praying for someone who didn't recover as expected -• The difference between a checklist approach to Christianity vs living by principles -• The importance of praise, singing, and worship in Christian life -• The call to rejoice, give thanks, sing, praise, shout, dance, and be silent in adoration of God -• The significance of being part of a church community and confessing sins to each other -• James emphasizes the importance of fellowship and community in following Jesus -• The church is one of the means God uses to keep us faithful and protect our faith -• We are part of a new family in Christ, not defined by biological or past relationships -• Confession of sins is crucial for forgiveness and purification from unrighteousness -• James urges confession of sins to both God and others within the church community -• The kind of church community needed is one that can hear and uphold each other's confessions. -• The importance of confessing sin and shame to others in the community -• The role of confession in experiencing God's victory over sin -• The need to listen to others' confessions and give them grace and presence -• The biblical concept of making disciples and walking together in discipline and devotion -• The importance of mentorship and passing on spiritual knowledge to younger generations -• The importance of living out faith in Jesus through a series of spiritual practices. -• The power and presence of God, the gospel, and the Holy Spirit in guiding individuals. -• The need for community and fellowship with others to support one another in faith. -• The role of prayer, confession, and discipleship in deepening one's relationship with God. -• The call to live a life that reflects one's faith, with the goal of glorifying God. -• Reference to a hymn or song about God's mercy -• Celebration of God's gift of faithful leadership for His people -• Explanation of the office of elder and deacon -• Description of their roles and responsibilities in serving the church -• Discussion of the importance of humility in church work -• Reference to scripture (Apostle Paul) on the role of elders -• Description of their duties, including preaching, instruction, sacraments, and counsel -• The roles and responsibilities of deacons in the church -• The importance of imitating Christ's mercy through acts of love, generosity, and care for others -• The tasks of elders and deacons, including serving the congregation and community, promoting reconciliation and peacemaking, and advocating for justice -• The qualities required for believers to serve as elders or deacons, including being Christ-like, mature in faith, and exercising their offices with prayer, patience, and humility -• The ordination of elders and deacons for specific terms of service in the congregation -• A series of questions asked to those accepting these offices, affirming their commitment to God's call and the church's doctrinal standards. -• Commissioning of new members in a digital service -• Ordination ceremony using virtual hands-on-hands method due to COVID restrictions -• Prayer for the newly commissioned members -• Charge to continuing elders and deacons to hold firmly to sound doctrine -• Responsibilities and duties of church leaders, including shepherding, guidance, and compassion. -• The importance of spiritual leadership being completely mastered by the Lord -• Reminding deacons to inspire faithful ministries of service -• Emphasizing the need to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God -• Teaching benevolence as a quality of life in Christ, not just financial assistance -• Ministering to the rich and poor alike within and outside the church -• Weighing opportunities for giving and service, using resources discerningly -• Being compassionate and respectful to those in need -• Encouraging hope through words and deeds that bring joy -• Critiquing waste, injustice, and selfishness in society as prophetic critics -• Living above reproach and being examples of Jesus Christ -• Looking out for the interests of others in all ministries -• Accepting help from others -• Supporting church leaders (elders and deacons) with prayer and encouragement -• Pledging support for church leaders in their work -• Prayer for church leaders to be filled with God's spirit, wisdom, and strength -• Encouraging congregation to accept and respect new office bearers -• Final blessing and benediction -• Prayers and devotionals -• Worship of God's faithfulness, strength, and presence -• Stories of Jesus' miracles and resurrection -• Praise songs about God's healing, saving, and redeeming power -• Celebration of being forgiven, accepted, and redeemed by God's grace -• References to various words or phrases in different languages (e.g. "joy in the house of the Lord", "we are royalty") \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - June 6, 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - June 6, 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6569e66e488385f32df35bf6c4064d91701222b6..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - June 6, 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2992 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.00] I can't resurrect -[29.00 --> 32.00] a man with my own hands. -[32.00 --> 37.00] But just the mention of your name -[37.00 --> 39.00] can raise the dead. -[39.00 --> 46.00] All the glory to the only one who can. -[46.00 --> 49.00] Jesus is yours. -[49.00 --> 53.00] Jesus is yours. -[53.00 --> 58.00] Oh, I believe the wonder work in God. -[58.00 --> 60.00] Yes, you are. -[60.00 --> 62.00] The wonder work in God. -[62.00 --> 65.00] All the miracles I've seen. -[65.00 --> 68.00] Too good to not believe. -[68.00 --> 72.00] You're the wonder work in God. -[72.00 --> 75.00] You heal because you love. -[75.00 --> 78.00] All the miracles we'll see. -[78.00 --> 81.00] You're too good to not believe. -[81.00 --> 84.00] Too good to not believe. -[84.00 --> 85.00] Come on. -[85.00 --> 87.00] Too good to not believe. -[87.00 --> 91.00] After everything I've seen. -[91.00 --> 95.00] Too good to not believe. -[95.00 --> 99.00] Too good to not believe. -[99.00 --> 101.00] Too good to not believe. -[101.00 --> 102.00] Too good to not believe. -[102.00 --> 104.00] Too good to not believe. -[104.00 --> 106.00] Too good to not believe. -[106.00 --> 107.00] For anything I've seen you do. -[107.00 --> 108.00] Oh God. -[108.00 --> 110.00] Yes, I believe. -[110.00 --> 112.00] I believe, I believe it. -[112.00 --> 115.00] Oh, I believe. -[115.00 --> 115.72] I believe. -[120.18 --> 123.16] We've seen cancer disappear. -[123.88 --> 126.84] We've seen broken bodies heal. -[127.38 --> 130.48] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[130.76 --> 133.76] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[134.06 --> 136.78] We've seen real life resurrection. -[137.46 --> 140.24] We've seen mental health restored. -[140.74 --> 143.80] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[143.80 --> 147.14] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[147.28 --> 150.20] We've seen families reunited. -[150.56 --> 153.40] We've seen prodigals return. -[153.58 --> 157.04] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[157.40 --> 160.38] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[160.58 --> 163.46] We've seen troubled souls delivered. -[164.08 --> 166.76] We've seen addicts finally free. -[166.76 --> 170.44] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[170.44 --> 173.78] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[173.78 --> 177.00] We'll see cities here revival. -[177.50 --> 180.16] Salvation flood the street. -[180.32 --> 180.70] Come on. -[180.74 --> 183.70] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[183.96 --> 187.04] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[187.30 --> 190.46] We'll see glory fill the nations. -[190.84 --> 193.50] Like the world has never seen. -[193.92 --> 197.18] Don't you tell me he can't do it. -[197.18 --> 200.52] Cause I know that he can't do it. -[200.52 --> 202.52] Yes, I believe. -[202.52 --> 205.36] You're the wonder-working God. -[205.36 --> 208.68] You're the wonder-working God. -[209.18 --> 212.14] All the miracles I've seen. -[212.52 --> 215.02] Two girls and I believe. -[215.02 --> 218.78] You're the wonder-working God. -[218.78 --> 222.12] And you heal because you love. -[222.12 --> 225.42] For the miracles we'll see. -[225.74 --> 228.46] Two girls and I believe. -[229.16 --> 231.70] Two girls and I believe. -[232.46 --> 234.34] Two girls and I believe. -[234.34 --> 236.12] Oh, I'll never stop believing. -[236.88 --> 238.04] Oh, yes, I believe. -[238.18 --> 239.30] We've seen so much. -[239.32 --> 240.22] Yes, I believe. -[240.78 --> 242.20] You're the same yesterday. -[242.90 --> 243.46] Today. -[243.96 --> 244.58] Come forever. -[244.58 --> 246.12] Oh, girl, I'll never stop believing. -[246.12 --> 248.24] You can do anything, Jesus. -[249.04 --> 250.12] You can do anything. -[250.40 --> 250.96] I believe. -[251.96 --> 252.66] I believe. -[253.66 --> 255.54] Wonder-working God. -[256.58 --> 258.66] Wonder-working God. -[259.68 --> 261.84] Don't you ever stop believing. -[262.96 --> 265.16] Cause he's so, so good. -[266.38 --> 268.52] So, so good. -[276.12 --> 293.38] Peace like a river. -[293.38 --> 295.96] Wash over me. -[300.96 --> 303.08] Immerse me in water. -[303.08 --> 305.54] As deep as the sea. -[310.92 --> 312.76] Hide me in love. -[313.30 --> 315.56] Healing embrace. -[318.06 --> 320.02] Peace like a river. -[322.92 --> 324.72] Wash over me. -[327.72 --> 332.12] Good morning and welcome to worship. -[332.12 --> 335.14] We are excited to gather together this morning. -[335.24 --> 340.98] We are excited to gather with those of us who are here in the building for this service -[340.98 --> 344.18] and those of you who are joining us online. -[344.30 --> 348.86] It's our hope and prayer that in this hour of worship together, we will see the face of -[348.86 --> 353.76] Jesus and our affections for him will be stirred as we worship our God. -[354.18 --> 359.94] This morning we are installing new office bearers and we are really excited to see God at work -[359.94 --> 361.90] in our church through that process. -[362.62 --> 367.58] We invite you to be part of that later on in our service. -[367.58 --> 370.88] Before we begin in earnest, just a few announcements. -[372.04 --> 378.58] First of all, you have no doubt heard by now of the food drive that's happening on June 12th. -[379.30 --> 380.66] That's next weekend. -[380.86 --> 385.76] Next Saturday there's a food drive and that's the districts are competing against each other -[385.76 --> 389.26] to collect the most amount of food for Langley Food Bank. -[390.04 --> 395.62] All the details for that are in your bulletin or the midweek memo and when your drop-off time -[395.62 --> 397.28] there is available as well. -[397.28 --> 406.16] But we did want to share with you that this past week we heard that Langley Food Bank is all but out of baby food. -[407.44 --> 414.32] And so if you are thinking what particular item can you give, we can stock their shelves with baby food. -[414.40 --> 419.42] That's a need that they have expressed to us and so let's perhaps do our part to meet them in that. -[419.42 --> 426.90] Also, this morning in our gathered worship here in the building is the first opportunity we have for children's worship time -[426.90 --> 427.94] to take place again. -[427.94 --> 429.98] And yeah, we had a cheer over there. -[430.06 --> 430.60] That's awesome. -[430.80 --> 435.14] We're really excited for that and we're grateful for the people who have volunteered to make that happen -[435.14 --> 437.82] but we are still looking for more volunteers. -[438.02 --> 443.22] And so if you can serve in that way, it would be a huge blessing to those of us who are able to gather here. -[443.22 --> 451.48] As well, the Rosarito shoebox drive that we have been doing where people have been making toques and submitting that. -[452.14 --> 456.48] We want to say thank you for the incredible response to that and we have enough toques. -[457.26 --> 459.38] And so please, don't start making new ones. -[459.46 --> 463.52] If you're going to finish a couple off, go ahead and do that and bring those to the church. -[463.58 --> 464.50] But we have enough toques. -[464.50 --> 471.02] There are other items that we can give and we can donate and send down to Jody in Mexico there. -[471.02 --> 475.96] And so look in the midweek memo and the e-bulletin for those other items. -[476.14 --> 479.16] And again, thank you for the incredible response to that. -[480.02 --> 487.24] As well, I want to invite you to a live streamed sing-along service that we're going to have tonight -[487.24 --> 490.20] that will begin at 7.30 and that will be on YouTube. -[490.46 --> 493.98] And so we'll have a team of people here leading us in song. -[494.08 --> 499.24] And so since it's hard for us to sing here in the space, we want to encourage people to sing at home. -[499.24 --> 505.56] And so join us at 7.30 for that live stream event called Sing a New Song Unto the Lord. -[506.34 --> 513.24] And then last one, this past week in the midweek memo, there was an announcement about our summer preaching series -[513.24 --> 514.88] that's coming up called Ask Anything. -[515.64 --> 521.38] And that means through the summer, pastors Kevin and Josh and myself, we will be answering all of your questions -[521.38 --> 524.34] or at least 10 of them for the 10 weeks of summer. -[524.34 --> 530.06] And so if you have questions about life, faith, Christianity, philosophy, or the like, submit those questions. -[530.20 --> 532.34] There are all sorts of ways on how you can do that. -[532.40 --> 536.26] And we would love to wrestle through those together with you over the course of the summer. -[537.30 --> 538.46] I think I got them all. -[539.12 --> 540.22] Thank you for your patience. -[540.78 --> 542.04] Let's worship our God together. -[542.14 --> 545.42] And so why don't we stand and we can receive God's greeting. -[545.42 --> 551.86] God is here. -[552.44 --> 556.64] He calls us to himself and he welcomes us into his presence. -[557.28 --> 564.52] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, -[564.92 --> 567.78] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[569.00 --> 569.42] Amen. -[570.06 --> 570.84] Let's worship God. -[570.84 --> 570.90] Amen. -[570.90 --> 570.94] Amen. -[575.42 --> 586.24] Our call to worship this morning is inspired by Isaiah 55, where it says, or it doesn't say it exactly. -[586.44 --> 587.44] It's inspired by it. -[587.66 --> 590.18] Come to the water, all who thirst. -[590.60 --> 593.14] Come drink deeply from the river of life. -[594.08 --> 596.48] Come to the water, all who are weary. -[597.12 --> 597.46] Come. -[598.06 --> 601.04] Rest in the quiet pools of God's love. -[601.04 --> 605.00] Come to the water, all who long for justice. -[605.88 --> 608.82] Come, be renewed in God's ever-flowing stream. -[609.76 --> 619.56] For God is here among us, washing away the dust and grime of our lives and pouring out the Spirit on all of us who thirst. -[619.56 --> 619.72] Amen. -[619.72 --> 619.80] Amen. -[619.80 --> 621.72] Amen. -[621.72 --> 622.72] Amen. -[622.72 --> 623.72] Amen. -[623.72 --> 624.72] Amen. -[624.72 --> 625.72] Amen. -[625.72 --> 626.72] Amen. -[626.72 --> 627.72] Amen. -[627.72 --> 627.84] Amen. -[627.84 --> 628.84] Amen. -[628.84 --> 629.84] Amen. -[631.04 --> 632.26] Amen. -[632.26 --> 644.96] Amen. -[644.96 --> 646.48] Amen. -[650.52 --> 654.70] Amen. -[654.70 --> 656.66] Amen. -[658.88 --> 659.94] Amen. -[660.18 --> 660.78] Amen. -[660.78 --> 660.82] Amen. -[660.82 --> 660.96] Amen. -[660.96 --> 661.00] Amen. -[661.00 --> 661.02] Amen. -[661.02 --> 669.26] Be washed away in the waves of His mercy -[669.26 --> 676.02] As deep cries out too deep -[676.58 --> 682.90] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[682.90 --> 691.72] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[691.72 --> 695.64] All who are thirsty -[695.64 --> 701.90] All who are weak -[701.90 --> 705.00] Come to the fountain -[705.00 --> 710.60] Keep your heart in the stream of night -[710.60 --> 712.86] And the pain and the sorrow -[712.86 --> 722.42] Be washed away in the waves of His mercy -[722.42 --> 728.92] As deep cries out too deep -[728.92 --> 734.84] Holy Spirit, come -[734.84 --> 744.84] Holy Spirit, come -[744.84 --> 751.84] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[751.84 --> 760.84] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[760.84 --> 779.16] Join me in a confession and assurance prayer -[779.16 --> 784.28] Gracious and merciful God -[784.28 --> 787.76] We bring before you this morning our sins -[787.76 --> 790.06] Which are often too heavy to carry -[790.06 --> 792.32] Too real to hide -[792.32 --> 794.84] And too deep to undo -[794.84 --> 799.58] Please, Lord, forgive what our lips tremble to name -[799.58 --> 802.98] What our hearts find so difficult to bear -[802.98 --> 805.60] And what can become for us -[805.60 --> 809.36] A consuming fire of self-judgment -[809.36 --> 813.40] We know that you set us free from the past -[813.40 --> 815.62] That we are helpless to change -[815.62 --> 818.90] Lord, open for us a future -[818.90 --> 821.82] In which we will be changed through you -[821.82 --> 825.56] Grant us grace to grow more and more -[825.56 --> 827.24] In your likeness and image -[827.24 --> 830.42] We pray this through Jesus Christ -[830.42 --> 831.14] Our light -[831.14 --> 833.02] And the light of the world -[833.02 --> 834.68] Amen -[834.68 --> 840.50] Amen -[841.00 --> 842.46] Amen -[842.46 --> 843.66] Amen -[843.66 --> 845.36] Amen -[845.36 --> 846.18] Amen -[846.18 --> 847.20] Amen -[847.20 --> 848.66] Amen -[848.66 --> 852.52] Amen -[852.52 --> 853.02] Amen -[855.18 --> 855.90] Amen -[855.90 --> 856.58] Amen -[856.58 --> 856.92] Amen -[856.92 --> 858.44] Amen -[858.44 --> 861.52] Amen -[861.52 --> 862.12] Amen -[863.06 --> 863.36] Amen -[863.36 --> 864.26] Amen -[864.26 --> 865.70] majesty -[865.70 --> 869.42] let all the earth rejoice -[869.42 --> 872.58] all the earth rejoice -[872.58 --> 874.50] he raps him -[874.50 --> 876.02] so he's a -[876.02 --> 877.30] man -[877.30 --> 879.44] and darkness -[879.44 --> 880.72] so he's a -[880.72 --> 881.68] man -[881.68 --> 883.32] and trampled by his -[883.32 --> 884.50] voice -[884.50 --> 886.02] trampled by his -[886.02 --> 887.56] voice -[887.56 --> 889.54] how great -[889.54 --> 890.60] his love is -[890.60 --> 891.26] so he's a -[891.26 --> 892.12] man -[892.12 --> 894.12] to be our -[894.12 --> 895.32] praise -[895.32 --> 897.10] star God -[897.10 --> 899.22] always be our -[899.22 --> 900.50] praise -[900.50 --> 902.12] how great -[902.12 --> 903.88] his love -[903.88 --> 909.74] each to -[909.74 --> 910.66] age -[910.66 --> 912.12] his chance -[913.04 --> 914.32] and the time -[914.32 --> 915.86] is in his -[915.86 --> 916.12] hands -[916.76 --> 918.22] beginning at -[918.22 --> 919.30] the end -[919.30 --> 920.68] beginning at -[920.68 --> 921.98] the end -[921.98 --> 923.98] the -[923.98 --> 924.14] time -[924.14 --> 924.44] had -[924.44 --> 925.18] dream -[925.18 --> 925.98] one -[925.98 --> 929.08] father -[929.08 --> 930.36] spirit -[930.36 --> 931.48] son -[931.48 --> 932.08] the -[932.08 --> 932.98] lion and -[932.98 --> 934.04] the lamb -[934.04 --> 935.44] the lion and -[935.44 --> 935.98] the lamb -[935.98 --> 938.98] how great -[938.98 --> 940.98] is our God -[941.62 --> 942.98] sing with me -[942.98 --> 943.98] how great -[944.54 --> 945.98] is our God -[946.50 --> 947.98] doubles me -[947.98 --> 948.98] how great -[948.98 --> 950.98] is our God -[950.98 --> 951.98] how great -[951.98 --> 955.98] is our God -[955.98 --> 958.98] name of all -[958.98 --> 959.98] name of all -[959.98 --> 960.98] names -[960.98 --> 964.98] worthy of all -[964.98 --> 965.98] praise -[965.98 --> 969.32] my heart will sing -[969.32 --> 970.98] how great -[970.98 --> 972.98] is our God -[972.98 --> 975.98] God -[975.98 --> 978.04] he'll -[981.04 --> 982.98] for the -[982.98 --> 983.06] buyer -[983.06 --> 983.98] s -[983.98 --> 988.44] ko -[988.44 --> 992.48] 聞 -[992.48 --> 993.56] how brave -[993.56 --> 999.48] How great is our God -[999.48 --> 1004.20] Sing with me how great is our God -[1004.20 --> 1007.32] Tell us to be how great -[1007.32 --> 1012.00] How great is our God -[1012.00 --> 1018.86] How great is our God -[1018.86 --> 1023.98] Sing with me how great is our God -[1023.98 --> 1027.54] And all will see how great -[1027.54 --> 1032.10] How great is our God -[1032.10 --> 1038.52] I invite you to be seated -[1038.52 --> 1049.94] Good morning everybody -[1049.94 --> 1051.68] Hello to those of you at home -[1051.68 --> 1054.56] And good morning to everybody here at church -[1054.56 --> 1055.64] Welcome to Kids Corner -[1055.64 --> 1058.16] If you don't know me, my name is Mrs. Nikki -[1058.16 --> 1060.70] And I'm going to jump right in today -[1060.70 --> 1062.64] To our new memory verse -[1062.64 --> 1065.28] Because I have learned that I tend to talk a lot -[1065.28 --> 1066.06] During this time -[1066.06 --> 1067.26] So I have to be fast -[1067.26 --> 1070.20] So our memory verse for the month of June -[1070.20 --> 1071.28] It's a new one -[1071.28 --> 1073.56] But I want you to listen to it -[1073.56 --> 1074.76] I'm going to just read it out -[1074.76 --> 1076.38] And then I want you to think about -[1076.38 --> 1078.88] If it sounds familiar at all to you -[1078.88 --> 1080.34] So it goes like this -[1080.34 --> 1082.24] Love the Lord your God -[1082.24 --> 1083.46] With all your heart -[1083.46 --> 1084.68] With all your soul -[1084.68 --> 1085.88] With all your mind -[1085.88 --> 1087.26] And with all your strength -[1087.26 --> 1089.60] I better look at it -[1089.60 --> 1091.48] And the second is like it -[1091.48 --> 1093.58] Love your neighbor as yourself -[1093.58 --> 1096.04] There is no commandment greater than these -[1096.04 --> 1099.08] Maybe you've heard that verse before -[1099.08 --> 1099.68] It's possible -[1099.68 --> 1100.98] It's a pretty common verse -[1100.98 --> 1103.76] But there's another reason why it might sound familiar -[1103.76 --> 1107.26] And it has to do with our memory verses here at Emmanuel -[1107.26 --> 1110.30] You might have to think quite a bit back -[1110.30 --> 1112.06] All the way back to the fall -[1112.06 --> 1114.58] Does anybody know why it sounds familiar? -[1115.06 --> 1117.98] Can anyone think of a memory verse that we have done -[1117.98 --> 1120.50] That is really close to this one? -[1120.50 --> 1123.58] Does anybody here at church know? -[1124.36 --> 1124.64] Yep -[1124.64 --> 1135.54] That's right -[1135.54 --> 1136.28] So she said -[1136.28 --> 1137.84] Love the Lord your God -[1137.84 --> 1138.74] With all your heart -[1138.74 --> 1139.74] With all your soul -[1139.74 --> 1140.54] With all your strength -[1140.54 --> 1142.16] And that was our memory verse -[1142.16 --> 1143.78] Way back in October -[1143.78 --> 1146.08] From Deuteronomy 6 verse 5 -[1146.08 --> 1149.32] So you can tell that this one is really close to it -[1149.32 --> 1150.86] But also just a little bit different -[1150.86 --> 1152.84] So in this memory verse -[1152.84 --> 1154.14] We have -[1154.14 --> 1155.42] It's from the book of Mark -[1155.42 --> 1156.80] So in the book of Mark -[1156.80 --> 1158.02] This is Jesus speaking -[1158.02 --> 1159.06] And he's speaking -[1159.06 --> 1161.38] To a teacher of the law -[1161.38 --> 1162.48] So a teacher of the law -[1162.48 --> 1163.64] Someone who really knew -[1163.64 --> 1165.72] The commands of God -[1165.72 --> 1166.52] From the Old Testament -[1166.52 --> 1167.62] Well comes to Jesus -[1167.62 --> 1168.40] And he says -[1168.40 --> 1170.90] What is the greatest commandment? -[1171.08 --> 1172.24] Out of all the commandments -[1172.24 --> 1173.24] All the ones about -[1173.24 --> 1174.40] The ten commandments -[1174.40 --> 1175.90] And all the sacrifices -[1175.90 --> 1176.88] And the festivals -[1176.88 --> 1178.52] There's a lot of commandments -[1178.52 --> 1179.24] In the Bible -[1179.24 --> 1180.44] And he's saying to Jesus -[1180.44 --> 1182.22] Well which one is the most important one? -[1182.76 --> 1184.80] And this is what Jesus' answer is -[1184.80 --> 1185.54] He says -[1185.54 --> 1186.72] Love the Lord your God -[1186.72 --> 1188.84] And then love your neighbor as yourself -[1188.84 --> 1190.22] These are the greatest ones -[1190.22 --> 1191.70] So when I was thinking -[1191.70 --> 1192.04] I thought -[1192.04 --> 1192.96] Well if Jesus says -[1192.96 --> 1194.46] These are the greatest commandments -[1194.46 --> 1195.54] Then it's probably something -[1195.54 --> 1196.22] We should remember -[1196.22 --> 1198.42] So we're going to do some actions -[1198.42 --> 1200.26] To help us remember them -[1200.26 --> 1201.54] And some of them will be familiar -[1201.54 --> 1204.74] Because we use them in Deuteronomy 6 verse 5 -[1204.74 --> 1207.46] So I invite you to do them along with me -[1207.46 --> 1209.18] And that will help us remember them -[1209.18 --> 1210.74] So now I have lots of people here -[1210.74 --> 1211.66] I get to see you do it -[1211.66 --> 1212.42] It's very exciting -[1212.42 --> 1214.18] So we're going to start like this -[1214.18 --> 1214.74] I'll show you -[1214.74 --> 1216.48] And then you can do it after with me -[1216.48 --> 1217.62] I'm going to go -[1217.62 --> 1219.66] Love the Lord your God -[1219.66 --> 1220.78] With all your heart -[1220.78 --> 1222.50] With all your soul -[1222.50 --> 1224.34] With all your mind -[1224.34 --> 1226.14] And with all your strength -[1226.14 --> 1228.70] And the second is like it -[1228.70 --> 1232.32] Love your neighbor as yourself -[1232.32 --> 1235.90] There is no commandment greater than these -[1235.90 --> 1239.24] And it's from Mark 12 verse 30 to 31 -[1239.24 --> 1240.96] So now you get to practice -[1240.96 --> 1241.86] It's practice time -[1241.86 --> 1243.16] So do it along with me -[1243.16 --> 1245.56] And that will help us remember it together -[1245.56 --> 1249.12] So love the Lord your God -[1249.12 --> 1250.36] With all your heart -[1250.36 --> 1251.98] With all your soul -[1251.98 --> 1253.60] With all your mind -[1253.60 --> 1255.22] And with all your strength -[1255.22 --> 1257.52] And the second is like it -[1257.52 --> 1261.08] Love your neighbor as yourself -[1261.08 --> 1264.54] There is no commandment greater than these -[1264.54 --> 1266.88] Mark 12 verse 30 to 31 -[1266.88 --> 1269.30] So we'll work on that for the month of June -[1269.30 --> 1270.02] And just a reminder -[1270.02 --> 1271.92] If anybody wants one of these -[1271.92 --> 1272.86] To hang on your fridge -[1272.86 --> 1273.68] Or help you remember -[1273.68 --> 1274.94] If you're at church -[1274.94 --> 1276.70] They're available at where you sign in -[1276.70 --> 1278.70] If you come to the church during the week -[1278.70 --> 1279.90] They'll be at the foyer -[1279.90 --> 1281.20] Where you sign in for church -[1281.20 --> 1285.20] Or you can save it off of the midweek memo -[1285.20 --> 1286.18] Or the e-bulletin -[1286.18 --> 1287.46] If you want a digital copy -[1287.46 --> 1290.14] Now before we get into the story -[1290.14 --> 1291.88] I have a new challenge -[1291.88 --> 1293.68] It's kind of like a challenge month -[1293.68 --> 1294.34] Here at Emanuel -[1294.34 --> 1295.46] We've got the food challenge -[1295.46 --> 1296.18] And so I thought -[1296.18 --> 1297.44] Well let's have another challenge -[1297.44 --> 1298.46] And this one is -[1298.46 --> 1301.00] The Emanuel Memory Verse Challenge -[1301.00 --> 1302.84] And the challenge is going to be -[1302.86 --> 1306.94] To remember all nine of our memory verses -[1306.94 --> 1308.46] That we've done since October -[1308.46 --> 1309.90] So I was thinking -[1309.90 --> 1312.76] Why do we memorize memory verses? -[1312.90 --> 1314.84] Is it just to remember them for a month -[1314.84 --> 1316.52] And then we forget them -[1316.52 --> 1317.76] And move on to the next one? -[1318.54 --> 1319.84] Well I think we all would say -[1319.84 --> 1320.74] No of course not -[1320.74 --> 1321.98] But sometimes that happens -[1321.98 --> 1323.90] They kind of sneak out of our memory -[1323.90 --> 1326.08] But what we want is that -[1326.08 --> 1328.86] God's words are in our head -[1328.86 --> 1329.42] In our heart -[1329.42 --> 1330.94] So that in our regular life -[1330.94 --> 1332.80] They come to our mind -[1332.80 --> 1334.72] So when you're out doing something -[1334.72 --> 1335.72] And you're frustrated -[1335.72 --> 1336.42] And you're upset -[1336.42 --> 1338.38] You can think of a verse -[1338.38 --> 1339.02] That would help you -[1339.02 --> 1340.08] Or you're feeling upset -[1340.08 --> 1340.98] With your sibling -[1340.98 --> 1341.74] And you think -[1341.74 --> 1343.40] Okay I remember the verse in James -[1343.40 --> 1345.24] That says be slow to speak -[1345.24 --> 1346.38] Slow to become angry -[1346.38 --> 1347.36] Be quick to listen -[1347.36 --> 1349.42] Or something exciting -[1349.42 --> 1350.32] Happens in your life -[1350.32 --> 1350.78] And you go -[1350.78 --> 1352.82] Oh I want to praise God -[1352.82 --> 1353.24] And you think -[1353.24 --> 1354.52] I will give thanks to the Lord -[1354.52 --> 1355.22] With all my heart -[1355.22 --> 1357.04] I will tell of his wonderful deeds -[1357.04 --> 1357.98] And it reminds you -[1357.98 --> 1360.48] To speak of God's work -[1360.48 --> 1361.34] In your life to others -[1361.34 --> 1362.78] So the point is that -[1362.78 --> 1364.28] They're all getting remembered -[1364.28 --> 1365.30] So the challenge is -[1365.30 --> 1367.04] You remember all nine verses -[1367.04 --> 1368.74] If you think you remember that -[1368.74 --> 1370.48] And you might need to refresh them -[1370.48 --> 1371.22] I understand -[1371.22 --> 1372.74] I forgot our memory verse -[1372.74 --> 1373.26] Halfway through -[1373.26 --> 1374.12] So I get that -[1374.12 --> 1375.32] Refresh them -[1375.32 --> 1375.88] Look them over -[1375.88 --> 1377.06] And if you think you can recite -[1377.06 --> 1377.92] All nine of them -[1377.92 --> 1379.46] I do need proof -[1379.46 --> 1380.24] I do trust you -[1380.24 --> 1381.32] But I kind of need proof -[1381.32 --> 1382.68] So what you can do -[1382.68 --> 1383.32] Is you can either -[1383.32 --> 1384.62] Take a video of yourself -[1384.62 --> 1385.74] And send it to me -[1385.74 --> 1388.20] You can also contact me -[1388.20 --> 1389.46] And you can do it in person -[1389.46 --> 1391.14] Or you can come to the church -[1391.14 --> 1392.08] And Pastor Kevin -[1392.08 --> 1392.98] Or Pastor Chris -[1392.98 --> 1394.72] Will listen to you -[1394.72 --> 1395.66] Recite it as well -[1395.66 --> 1397.78] Now like always -[1397.78 --> 1398.64] The memory verses -[1398.64 --> 1399.62] Aren't just for kids -[1399.62 --> 1400.54] So this challenge -[1400.54 --> 1401.42] Is for anybody -[1401.42 --> 1402.52] It's for kids -[1402.52 --> 1403.50] It's for teenagers -[1403.50 --> 1404.66] Adults -[1404.66 --> 1405.22] Everybody -[1405.22 --> 1406.38] Everyone can do it -[1406.38 --> 1407.88] And I do have prizes -[1407.88 --> 1409.58] Because challenges need prizes -[1409.58 --> 1410.88] It's fun when there's a prize -[1410.88 --> 1412.20] And the prizes are -[1412.20 --> 1413.86] Child and adult friendly -[1413.86 --> 1415.82] So you will be excited -[1415.82 --> 1416.82] To get a prize -[1416.82 --> 1418.48] Not that I'm bribing you -[1418.48 --> 1420.06] To learn God's words -[1420.06 --> 1421.34] But sometimes -[1421.34 --> 1423.88] We just need a little prize -[1423.88 --> 1424.46] Anyway -[1424.46 --> 1425.54] So please do that -[1425.54 --> 1427.58] The challenge starts tomorrow -[1427.58 --> 1428.36] How about -[1428.36 --> 1429.18] And it's going to go -[1429.18 --> 1430.32] Until June 20th -[1430.32 --> 1432.12] So we got until June 20th -[1432.12 --> 1432.60] To do -[1432.60 --> 1434.56] To go through the -[1434.56 --> 1434.92] Remember -[1434.92 --> 1436.28] Anytime in between there -[1436.28 --> 1437.46] You can send it in -[1437.46 --> 1438.58] And then we'll connect -[1438.58 --> 1439.02] About that -[1439.02 --> 1441.12] All right -[1441.12 --> 1443.40] Let's start with our story here -[1443.40 --> 1444.84] We'll start -[1444.84 --> 1445.50] Let's keep going -[1445.50 --> 1446.04] With our story -[1446.04 --> 1448.62] So today our story -[1448.62 --> 1450.10] Is from the book of Acts again -[1450.10 --> 1451.38] So kids you might remember -[1451.38 --> 1452.28] That we've been learning -[1452.28 --> 1454.34] About one of the disciples -[1454.34 --> 1455.76] And his name is Peter -[1455.76 --> 1457.54] And Jesus has gone -[1457.54 --> 1458.46] Back into heaven -[1458.46 --> 1459.78] And he's given the disciples -[1459.78 --> 1460.92] A special job -[1460.92 --> 1462.96] To share the good news -[1462.96 --> 1464.56] Of Jesus' death -[1464.56 --> 1465.34] And resurrection -[1465.34 --> 1467.76] With the world around them -[1467.76 --> 1469.56] So let's think about -[1469.56 --> 1470.16] Some of the things -[1470.16 --> 1470.70] That we remember -[1470.70 --> 1471.38] Peter's done -[1471.38 --> 1473.26] He's received the Holy Spirit -[1473.26 --> 1474.04] That happened -[1474.04 --> 1475.04] We learned about that -[1475.04 --> 1475.86] A few weeks ago -[1475.86 --> 1477.42] Then he -[1477.42 --> 1478.38] What did he do -[1478.38 --> 1479.84] I wrote them down here -[1479.84 --> 1480.96] He always preached -[1480.96 --> 1481.74] To lots of people -[1481.74 --> 1482.08] Of course -[1482.08 --> 1483.02] Thousands of people -[1483.02 --> 1483.88] Have learned about -[1483.88 --> 1485.26] God's good news -[1485.26 --> 1486.72] He's raised somebody -[1486.72 --> 1487.42] From the dead -[1487.42 --> 1487.82] Do you remember -[1487.82 --> 1488.92] That story last week -[1488.92 --> 1489.64] Tabitha -[1489.64 --> 1491.08] He raised her from the dead -[1491.08 --> 1492.68] And he's also healed -[1492.68 --> 1493.92] A man who couldn't walk -[1493.92 --> 1494.96] So those are some -[1494.96 --> 1495.82] Of the things he's done -[1495.82 --> 1496.70] That we've learned about -[1496.70 --> 1498.28] We have a problem -[1498.28 --> 1498.88] This week -[1498.88 --> 1500.42] A big big problem -[1500.42 --> 1502.68] Peter is in prison -[1502.68 --> 1505.32] How is he going to -[1505.32 --> 1506.40] Continue God's work -[1506.40 --> 1506.88] In prison -[1506.88 --> 1508.48] That is the question -[1508.48 --> 1509.68] So let's learn -[1509.68 --> 1511.04] Because it's pretty exciting -[1511.04 --> 1513.44] So we have King Herod -[1513.44 --> 1514.04] Now you might -[1514.04 --> 1514.96] When you think of this -[1514.96 --> 1515.84] You go oh King Herod -[1515.84 --> 1516.76] I know who that is -[1516.76 --> 1517.98] Well just so you know -[1517.98 --> 1519.28] There's a lot of King Herods -[1519.28 --> 1520.38] So this is not -[1520.38 --> 1521.26] The King Herod -[1521.26 --> 1522.90] Who tried to kill -[1522.90 --> 1523.60] Baby Jesus -[1523.60 --> 1524.40] That was a different -[1524.40 --> 1524.94] King Herod -[1524.94 --> 1526.26] It's not the King Herod -[1526.26 --> 1527.66] Who killed John the Baptist -[1527.66 --> 1529.74] That was yet another King Herod -[1529.74 --> 1531.40] This is a new one -[1531.40 --> 1532.18] They're all related -[1532.18 --> 1533.02] And they like to use -[1533.02 --> 1534.16] The same name of course -[1534.16 --> 1535.86] So this is a new King Herod -[1535.86 --> 1538.02] But like the other King Herods -[1538.02 --> 1539.54] He is very opposed -[1539.54 --> 1540.58] To the work of Jesus -[1540.58 --> 1541.42] In the world -[1541.42 --> 1543.78] So he has a lot of power -[1543.78 --> 1545.18] And he ruled in a time -[1545.18 --> 1547.00] That after Jesus ascended -[1547.00 --> 1548.80] And he wanted to use his power -[1548.80 --> 1550.62] To harm Jesus' followers -[1550.62 --> 1552.70] He arrested Peter -[1552.70 --> 1553.76] And he put him in prison -[1553.76 --> 1554.84] Even though Peter -[1554.84 --> 1555.98] Didn't do anything wrong -[1555.98 --> 1558.40] King Herod was angry -[1558.40 --> 1559.54] That Peter loved -[1559.54 --> 1560.50] And praised Jesus -[1560.50 --> 1561.58] And he was angry -[1561.58 --> 1563.16] That Peter told the good news -[1563.16 --> 1564.06] Everywhere he went -[1564.06 --> 1566.10] So he ordered his soldiers -[1566.10 --> 1568.04] To lock Peter up in chains -[1568.04 --> 1569.42] To place him in prison -[1569.42 --> 1570.56] And to guard him -[1570.56 --> 1571.44] Very carefully -[1571.44 --> 1573.68] This will put an end -[1573.68 --> 1574.62] To Peter's preaching -[1574.62 --> 1575.92] Harold snarled to himself -[1575.92 --> 1577.64] Now let's see what happens -[1577.64 --> 1579.08] To all this talk about Jesus -[1579.08 --> 1580.68] And about the wonderful things -[1580.68 --> 1582.84] Peter says Jesus can do -[1582.84 --> 1584.84] While Herod's soldiers -[1584.84 --> 1586.44] Had to obey their angry king -[1586.44 --> 1588.20] So they chained Peter up -[1588.20 --> 1589.14] With two chains -[1589.14 --> 1590.76] And they placed him in a cell -[1590.76 --> 1591.76] With two guards -[1591.76 --> 1593.78] And then two more guards -[1593.78 --> 1595.08] Stood at the entrance -[1595.08 --> 1596.10] Just to make sure -[1596.10 --> 1597.54] He would not escape -[1597.54 --> 1599.44] They watched him every minute -[1599.44 --> 1601.18] They even made him sleep -[1601.18 --> 1603.12] In between two different guards -[1603.12 --> 1603.72] In a cell -[1603.72 --> 1606.88] Poor Peter -[1606.88 --> 1608.34] He was stuck -[1608.34 --> 1610.58] How do you think Peter felt -[1610.58 --> 1611.46] When he was locked -[1611.46 --> 1612.44] In a prison cell -[1612.44 --> 1615.16] I think he might have felt -[1615.16 --> 1616.30] Frustrated -[1616.30 --> 1618.76] Maybe he was sad -[1618.76 --> 1620.32] Maybe he was upset -[1620.32 --> 1621.16] With what happened -[1621.16 --> 1623.42] What do you think -[1623.42 --> 1624.66] Peter could have thought of -[1624.66 --> 1625.36] To make him feel better -[1625.36 --> 1626.20] Do you think that he -[1626.20 --> 1627.28] Was recalling -[1627.28 --> 1628.66] Verses that he knew -[1628.66 --> 1630.06] Or things Jesus said to him -[1630.06 --> 1631.64] To help keep his spirits up -[1631.64 --> 1632.96] Maybe he was singing -[1632.96 --> 1634.90] Or while he was afraid -[1634.90 --> 1636.74] Well Peter's friends -[1636.74 --> 1638.06] They were getting together -[1638.06 --> 1639.04] In a house nearby -[1639.04 --> 1639.74] The prison -[1639.74 --> 1640.58] And they were praying -[1640.58 --> 1641.16] For Peter -[1641.16 --> 1642.88] Peter's friends believed -[1642.88 --> 1644.24] That Jesus was with Peter -[1644.24 --> 1645.34] And that Jesus could do -[1645.34 --> 1646.14] Wonderful things -[1646.14 --> 1647.12] That no person -[1647.12 --> 1648.00] Had the power to do -[1648.00 --> 1648.74] So they prayed -[1648.74 --> 1650.58] They prayed all through the day -[1650.58 --> 1651.94] And all through the night -[1651.94 --> 1653.68] Well one night -[1653.68 --> 1654.80] Peter was asleep -[1654.80 --> 1655.86] Between the two guards -[1655.86 --> 1656.96] He was all chained up -[1656.96 --> 1658.78] An amazing thing happened -[1658.78 --> 1659.76] In the dark -[1659.76 --> 1660.72] And quiet prison -[1660.72 --> 1662.18] Out of nowhere -[1662.18 --> 1664.12] An angel appeared -[1664.12 --> 1665.14] In Peter's cell -[1665.14 --> 1667.04] The angel poked Peter -[1667.04 --> 1667.68] In his side -[1667.68 --> 1668.54] And whispered in his ear -[1668.54 --> 1668.96] Quick -[1668.96 --> 1669.94] Get up -[1669.94 --> 1671.76] Well the soldiers -[1671.76 --> 1672.66] Who were next to Peter -[1672.66 --> 1673.80] Well they didn't move a muscle -[1673.80 --> 1675.72] The soldiers at the door -[1675.72 --> 1676.88] Continued to snore -[1676.88 --> 1678.92] Peter could rub his eyes -[1678.92 --> 1679.72] And try to figure out -[1679.72 --> 1680.36] What was happening -[1680.36 --> 1681.86] Then the chains -[1681.86 --> 1682.72] That were holding him -[1682.72 --> 1683.44] Fell off -[1683.44 --> 1685.14] The soldiers -[1685.14 --> 1685.92] Who were guarding Peter -[1685.92 --> 1687.16] Still didn't move a muscle -[1687.16 --> 1688.82] They continued to sleep -[1688.82 --> 1690.54] The angel said to Peter -[1690.54 --> 1691.40] Put on your clothes -[1691.40 --> 1692.48] Put on your sandals -[1692.48 --> 1693.68] Put on your coat -[1693.68 --> 1694.50] And follow me -[1694.50 --> 1694.98] Hurry -[1694.98 --> 1697.02] Peter must have thought -[1697.02 --> 1697.76] He was dreaming -[1697.76 --> 1699.40] But without saying a word -[1699.40 --> 1700.54] He obeyed the angel -[1700.54 --> 1702.94] The soldiers guarding Peter -[1702.94 --> 1703.86] Didn't move a muscle -[1703.86 --> 1705.40] And the soldiers at the door -[1705.40 --> 1706.82] Continued to snore -[1706.82 --> 1709.04] I don't know why -[1709.04 --> 1710.38] The soldiers didn't wake up -[1710.38 --> 1712.10] But Peter followed the angel -[1712.10 --> 1713.54] He walked right past -[1713.54 --> 1714.48] The sleepy soldiers -[1714.48 --> 1715.30] Who guarded him -[1715.30 --> 1717.50] Right past the snoring soldiers -[1717.50 --> 1718.16] At the door -[1718.16 --> 1720.38] Right out of the prison gate -[1720.38 --> 1722.78] Which opened all by itself -[1722.78 --> 1725.12] I wonder how quiet -[1725.12 --> 1726.02] Peter had to be -[1726.02 --> 1727.10] As he tiptoed -[1727.10 --> 1728.12] Past the soldiers -[1728.12 --> 1729.10] Out of the jail -[1729.10 --> 1730.14] Out of the city -[1730.14 --> 1733.16] Peter must have thought -[1733.16 --> 1734.64] He was having a wonderful dream -[1734.64 --> 1735.88] A dream where he escaped -[1735.88 --> 1736.46] From jail -[1736.46 --> 1738.22] But when he rubbed his eyes -[1738.22 --> 1739.14] And he looked around him -[1739.14 --> 1740.26] The angel was gone -[1740.26 --> 1741.60] But so were the guards -[1741.60 --> 1742.64] The prison bars -[1742.64 --> 1743.36] The chains -[1743.36 --> 1744.18] The heavy gates -[1744.18 --> 1744.84] Peter knew -[1744.84 --> 1746.02] He wasn't dreaming -[1746.02 --> 1747.22] It was real -[1747.22 --> 1749.12] Jesus had sent an angel -[1749.12 --> 1750.18] To rescue Peter -[1750.18 --> 1751.10] And keep him safe -[1751.10 --> 1753.64] So Peter -[1753.64 --> 1754.72] Raced as fast as he could -[1754.72 --> 1755.54] To Mary's house -[1755.54 --> 1756.18] Where his friends -[1756.18 --> 1757.46] Were all praying for him -[1757.46 --> 1758.70] You think his friends -[1758.70 --> 1759.80] Would have been so happy -[1759.80 --> 1760.86] And excited to see him -[1760.86 --> 1762.36] He could hardly wait -[1762.36 --> 1762.82] To tell him -[1762.82 --> 1763.26] So he went -[1763.26 --> 1764.16] And he knocked on the door -[1764.16 --> 1764.50] And he said -[1764.50 --> 1764.90] It's me -[1764.90 --> 1765.50] It's Peter -[1765.50 --> 1766.66] I escaped from jail -[1766.66 --> 1767.42] Let me in -[1767.42 --> 1768.78] Well the servant -[1768.78 --> 1769.86] The servant Rhonda -[1769.86 --> 1770.98] Came to answer the door -[1770.98 --> 1772.30] But she was so excited -[1772.30 --> 1772.88] That he was there -[1772.88 --> 1774.18] That she forgot to let him in -[1774.18 --> 1775.48] So she ran back -[1775.48 --> 1776.10] To the others -[1776.10 --> 1777.34] Peter was free -[1777.34 --> 1778.42] He was right here -[1778.42 --> 1778.96] Outside -[1778.96 --> 1781.02] The others thought -[1781.02 --> 1781.82] How can that be -[1781.82 --> 1782.78] Well he's in prison -[1782.78 --> 1783.80] That can't be true -[1783.80 --> 1785.68] But Rhonda wouldn't give up -[1785.68 --> 1787.06] So they went back to the door -[1787.06 --> 1787.86] And there was Peter -[1787.86 --> 1788.60] Still knocking -[1788.60 --> 1789.50] Trying to get in -[1789.50 --> 1790.82] They must have been -[1790.82 --> 1791.78] So surprised -[1791.78 --> 1793.50] If you were Peter's friend -[1793.50 --> 1795.14] Would you have been surprised? -[1795.14 --> 1796.10] What would you have thought -[1796.10 --> 1796.96] When you saw him -[1796.96 --> 1797.72] At the door? -[1798.94 --> 1799.72] Well Peter motioned -[1799.72 --> 1800.70] For everyone to be quiet -[1800.70 --> 1801.48] And he told them -[1801.48 --> 1802.80] How God had answered his prayer -[1802.80 --> 1804.04] How he sent an angel -[1804.04 --> 1805.52] To rescue him from prison -[1805.52 --> 1808.44] Meanwhile back in the prison -[1808.44 --> 1809.62] The guards and the soldiers -[1809.62 --> 1810.38] Woke up -[1810.38 --> 1811.62] And what did they realize? -[1811.74 --> 1813.26] That Peter was gone -[1813.26 --> 1816.08] Well they had to run out of there too -[1816.08 --> 1817.42] Because King Herod -[1817.42 --> 1818.78] Was going to be pretty angry -[1818.78 --> 1819.60] When he discovered -[1819.60 --> 1820.98] That his prisoner was gone -[1820.98 --> 1823.12] That God had answered -[1823.12 --> 1825.00] The prayers of Peter's friends -[1825.00 --> 1827.60] And that he was free -[1827.60 --> 1828.64] To continue to share -[1828.64 --> 1829.36] The good news -[1829.36 --> 1830.28] With those around him -[1830.28 --> 1833.16] That's a pretty crazy story -[1833.16 --> 1835.50] It would be pretty hard to believe -[1835.50 --> 1836.76] Even for Peter himself -[1836.76 --> 1839.00] But we know that God -[1839.00 --> 1839.66] Is with us -[1839.66 --> 1840.56] He answers prayers -[1840.56 --> 1841.74] And we're going to -[1841.74 --> 1842.86] Continue learning about that -[1842.86 --> 1843.80] Whether you're at home -[1843.80 --> 1845.18] Or if you're here -[1845.18 --> 1845.68] And coming to -[1845.68 --> 1846.42] Children's Worship Time -[1846.42 --> 1847.34] So let's pray together -[1847.34 --> 1848.40] For a moment first -[1848.40 --> 1850.86] Lord Jesus -[1850.86 --> 1851.44] We thank you -[1851.44 --> 1852.64] That you hear our prayers -[1852.64 --> 1854.02] Thank you for the amazing -[1854.02 --> 1855.48] Works that you did -[1855.48 --> 1856.46] In the life of Peter -[1856.46 --> 1857.98] Thank you for the ways -[1857.98 --> 1858.64] That you used him -[1858.64 --> 1859.58] To share the gospel -[1859.58 --> 1860.86] With the world around him -[1860.86 --> 1862.34] And how we can still learn -[1862.34 --> 1863.36] From those stories -[1863.36 --> 1864.14] Today -[1864.14 --> 1865.88] We pray that we would -[1865.88 --> 1867.30] Trust you -[1867.30 --> 1868.42] And that we would -[1868.42 --> 1869.56] Share your good news -[1869.56 --> 1870.50] With our community -[1870.50 --> 1871.06] And our world -[1871.06 --> 1871.78] Just like Peter -[1871.78 --> 1872.74] Amen -[1882.64 --> 1885.00] Good morning -[1885.00 --> 1887.28] It sure is good -[1887.28 --> 1888.08] To be here again -[1888.08 --> 1889.02] It's been a long time -[1889.02 --> 1890.10] Since I've had the opportunity -[1890.10 --> 1890.82] To do this -[1890.82 --> 1893.54] So we will now -[1893.54 --> 1894.98] Continue our worship -[1894.98 --> 1896.12] Through the giving -[1896.12 --> 1896.90] Of our offerings -[1896.90 --> 1899.48] In Hebrews 6 verse 10 -[1899.48 --> 1900.04] We read -[1900.04 --> 1901.26] God is not unjust -[1901.26 --> 1902.60] He will not forget -[1902.60 --> 1903.10] Your work -[1903.10 --> 1903.62] And the love -[1903.62 --> 1904.50] You have shown him -[1904.50 --> 1905.72] As you have helped -[1905.72 --> 1906.22] His people -[1906.22 --> 1907.80] And continue to help them -[1907.80 --> 1909.98] Our gifts today -[1909.98 --> 1910.74] Are for the budget -[1910.74 --> 1912.00] To support the ministries -[1912.00 --> 1913.02] Of this congregation -[1913.02 --> 1914.98] And also for -[1914.98 --> 1917.34] Wellspring UBC Okanagan -[1917.34 --> 1919.34] This ministry -[1919.34 --> 1920.30] Is also supported -[1920.30 --> 1922.02] By the Kelowna CRC -[1922.02 --> 1922.86] Their mission -[1922.86 --> 1924.14] Is to seek to equip -[1924.14 --> 1925.32] And encourage students -[1925.32 --> 1926.80] Staff and faculty -[1926.80 --> 1928.80] To be lifelong -[1928.80 --> 1929.88] Disciples of Jesus -[1929.88 --> 1931.88] Next week's offering -[1931.88 --> 1933.74] Will be for Teen Challenge -[1933.74 --> 1935.78] Teen Challenge -[1935.78 --> 1937.00] Has various campuses -[1937.00 --> 1937.90] Across BC -[1937.90 --> 1939.36] Which help young women -[1939.36 --> 1939.78] And men -[1939.78 --> 1941.98] Recover from substance abuse -[1942.00 --> 1944.18] Their goal is to help -[1944.18 --> 1945.82] People become mentally sound -[1945.82 --> 1947.34] Emotionally balanced -[1947.34 --> 1949.30] Socially adjusted -[1949.30 --> 1950.18] Physically well -[1950.18 --> 1951.08] And most importantly -[1951.08 --> 1952.24] Spiritually alive -[1952.24 --> 1955.32] Just I want to do -[1955.32 --> 1955.94] One clarification -[1955.94 --> 1957.10] Just want a reminder -[1957.10 --> 1957.92] That I only -[1957.92 --> 1959.30] Will be coming by -[1959.30 --> 1960.76] With one offering bag -[1960.76 --> 1962.48] So any money -[1962.48 --> 1963.34] That is designated -[1963.34 --> 1964.06] For the budget -[1964.06 --> 1964.76] Should be in one -[1964.76 --> 1965.36] Of those small -[1965.36 --> 1966.34] Budget envelopes -[1966.34 --> 1967.28] Anything else -[1967.28 --> 1969.88] That isn't designated -[1969.88 --> 1971.44] Will go to the -[1971.44 --> 1972.34] Special collection -[1972.34 --> 1973.04] Of that week -[1973.04 --> 1975.12] Please give -[1975.12 --> 1975.82] As the Lord -[1975.82 --> 1976.50] Has blessed you -[1990.76 --> 1995.74] Good morning church -[1995.74 --> 2020.64] Good morning church -[2020.64 --> 2022.18] Here and at home -[2022.18 --> 2024.74] It's good to see you -[2024.74 --> 2027.06] Thank you for gathering -[2027.06 --> 2027.80] Online -[2027.80 --> 2029.52] My name is Kevin -[2029.52 --> 2030.20] Fisher and I'm the -[2030.20 --> 2030.72] Serving elder -[2030.72 --> 2031.64] Today -[2031.64 --> 2033.44] And it's my -[2033.44 --> 2035.60] Honor and privilege -[2035.60 --> 2036.72] To give the family -[2036.72 --> 2037.06] Prayer -[2037.06 --> 2037.74] The church family -[2037.74 --> 2037.98] Prayer -[2037.98 --> 2038.80] So please join me -[2038.80 --> 2039.98] As we pray together -[2039.98 --> 2046.32] I want to begin -[2046.32 --> 2046.86] With some words -[2046.86 --> 2047.72] From Malte Brueggemann -[2047.72 --> 2048.90] Based on Psalm 19 -[2048.90 --> 2051.40] Light from light -[2051.40 --> 2053.58] Creation from chaos -[2053.58 --> 2055.98] Life from death -[2055.98 --> 2057.52] Joy from sorrow -[2057.52 --> 2059.94] Hope from despair -[2059.94 --> 2062.50] Peace from hate -[2062.50 --> 2064.56] All your gifts -[2064.56 --> 2065.58] All your love -[2065.58 --> 2066.76] All your power -[2066.76 --> 2068.86] All from your word -[2068.86 --> 2071.36] Fresh from your word -[2071.36 --> 2073.98] All gifts of your speech -[2073.98 --> 2076.08] We give thanks -[2076.08 --> 2076.92] For your world -[2076.92 --> 2078.30] Forming speech -[2078.30 --> 2081.26] Thanks as well -[2081.26 --> 2082.12] For our speech -[2082.12 --> 2082.96] Back to you -[2082.96 --> 2085.48] The speech of mothers -[2085.48 --> 2086.58] And fathers -[2086.58 --> 2087.86] Who dared to speak -[2087.86 --> 2088.46] In faith -[2088.46 --> 2090.14] And unfaith -[2090.14 --> 2091.96] In trust -[2091.96 --> 2093.52] And in distrust -[2093.52 --> 2095.82] In grateful memory -[2095.82 --> 2097.90] And in high hurt -[2097.90 --> 2100.24] We cherish -[2100.24 --> 2101.62] This speech -[2101.62 --> 2103.04] As we trust yours -[2103.04 --> 2105.66] Listen this day -[2105.66 --> 2106.76] For the groans -[2106.76 --> 2107.62] And yearnings -[2107.62 --> 2109.10] Of your word -[2109.10 --> 2111.16] Listen to our own -[2111.16 --> 2112.06] Songs of joy -[2112.06 --> 2113.28] And our own -[2113.28 --> 2114.20] Drudges of death -[2114.20 --> 2115.92] And in the midst -[2115.92 --> 2117.22] Of our stammering -[2117.22 --> 2118.88] Speak your clear -[2118.88 --> 2119.82] Word of life -[2119.82 --> 2121.50] In the name -[2121.50 --> 2122.52] Of your word -[2122.52 --> 2123.60] Come flesh -[2123.60 --> 2130.02] Lord as a church -[2130.02 --> 2130.70] As we gather -[2130.70 --> 2132.56] Here or in line -[2132.56 --> 2133.92] We come together -[2133.92 --> 2135.00] To share -[2135.00 --> 2135.94] In the pain -[2135.94 --> 2137.12] Of loss -[2137.12 --> 2137.88] With our indigenous -[2137.88 --> 2138.72] Communities -[2138.72 --> 2139.42] As we learned -[2139.42 --> 2140.50] About the discovery -[2140.50 --> 2143.20] Of 215 children -[2143.20 --> 2143.74] Buried -[2143.74 --> 2145.02] On the site -[2145.02 --> 2145.56] Of a formal -[2145.56 --> 2146.48] Residential school -[2146.48 --> 2147.08] In Kamloops -[2147.08 --> 2148.90] Lord a story -[2148.90 --> 2149.40] Like this -[2149.40 --> 2149.92] Stirs up -[2149.92 --> 2150.70] A lot of emotion -[2150.70 --> 2151.34] And questions -[2151.34 --> 2153.72] We pray -[2153.72 --> 2154.62] For your peace -[2154.62 --> 2155.28] That passes -[2155.28 --> 2156.22] All understanding -[2156.22 --> 2157.10] In our communities -[2157.10 --> 2159.44] May our political -[2159.44 --> 2160.44] And church leaders -[2160.44 --> 2162.12] Seek reparation -[2162.12 --> 2163.84] As we continue -[2163.84 --> 2165.46] To move towards -[2165.46 --> 2166.86] Reconciliation -[2166.86 --> 2168.50] With our indigenous -[2168.50 --> 2169.04] Peoples -[2169.04 --> 2170.36] In this country -[2170.36 --> 2174.42] We pray for comfort -[2174.42 --> 2174.90] On Amy -[2174.90 --> 2175.40] Bongers -[2175.40 --> 2176.00] In the family -[2176.00 --> 2176.80] As Amy's mother -[2176.80 --> 2177.46] Passed away -[2177.46 --> 2177.92] This week -[2177.92 --> 2178.60] In Bellingham -[2178.60 --> 2180.64] She passed away -[2180.64 --> 2181.82] Due to COVID-19 -[2181.82 --> 2183.10] And Amy was unable -[2183.10 --> 2183.88] To visit her -[2183.88 --> 2186.34] During her last days -[2186.34 --> 2188.50] So Lord we pray -[2188.50 --> 2189.06] For comfort -[2189.06 --> 2189.72] And strength -[2189.72 --> 2190.12] On them -[2190.12 --> 2190.96] As a family -[2190.96 --> 2192.30] As they grieve -[2192.30 --> 2192.70] The loss -[2192.70 --> 2193.14] Of her mom -[2193.14 --> 2195.66] And Lord -[2195.66 --> 2196.18] For others -[2196.18 --> 2197.04] Who are -[2197.04 --> 2198.58] Who've lost -[2198.58 --> 2199.12] Loved ones -[2199.12 --> 2199.96] Either recently -[2199.96 --> 2201.38] Or maybe -[2201.38 --> 2202.40] A while ago -[2202.40 --> 2204.68] The pain -[2204.68 --> 2205.68] Sometimes never -[2205.68 --> 2206.32] Leaves -[2206.32 --> 2208.94] And may our -[2208.94 --> 2209.56] Memories of our -[2209.56 --> 2209.98] Loved ones -[2209.98 --> 2210.94] Continue to remain -[2210.94 --> 2212.94] But Lord -[2212.94 --> 2213.54] Let us also -[2213.54 --> 2214.16] Be reminded -[2214.16 --> 2214.74] About your -[2214.74 --> 2215.46] Great power -[2215.46 --> 2216.22] On the cross -[2216.22 --> 2217.02] And your resurrection -[2217.02 --> 2217.72] That death -[2217.72 --> 2218.32] Does not have -[2218.32 --> 2219.02] The final say -[2219.02 --> 2223.34] Lord we're thankful -[2223.34 --> 2224.28] For John Denhan's -[2224.28 --> 2224.68] Recovery -[2224.68 --> 2226.12] From a recent -[2226.12 --> 2226.72] Heart attack -[2226.72 --> 2228.12] And we pray -[2228.12 --> 2228.70] That you continue -[2228.70 --> 2229.14] To give him -[2229.14 --> 2229.66] Strength -[2229.66 --> 2230.92] As he builds -[2230.92 --> 2231.64] Up strength -[2231.64 --> 2234.58] We pray too -[2234.58 --> 2235.28] For Pearl -[2235.28 --> 2236.98] As she continues -[2236.98 --> 2238.50] To provide -[2238.50 --> 2239.38] Care for him -[2239.38 --> 2241.34] During his recovery -[2241.34 --> 2242.24] May she also -[2242.24 --> 2243.02] Experience your -[2243.02 --> 2243.84] Strength and peace -[2243.84 --> 2244.08] Too -[2244.08 --> 2247.66] Lord we pray -[2247.66 --> 2248.18] For all those -[2248.18 --> 2248.96] In our congregation -[2248.96 --> 2249.74] Who are recovering -[2249.74 --> 2250.52] From surgery -[2250.52 --> 2252.82] May they continue -[2252.82 --> 2253.42] To feel your -[2253.42 --> 2254.20] Healing presence -[2254.20 --> 2254.90] In their life -[2254.90 --> 2257.70] Lord we're -[2257.70 --> 2258.26] Thankful for the -[2258.26 --> 2259.04] Opportunity to gather -[2259.04 --> 2260.06] In person once again -[2260.06 --> 2261.90] And we continue -[2261.90 --> 2262.84] To pray for insight -[2262.84 --> 2263.32] And wisdom -[2263.32 --> 2264.00] For the leadership -[2264.00 --> 2264.96] Of this church -[2264.96 --> 2266.00] As well as those -[2266.00 --> 2266.68] Who are volunteering -[2266.68 --> 2267.66] Their time -[2267.66 --> 2268.60] As changes are made -[2268.60 --> 2269.36] From week to week -[2269.36 --> 2271.24] We pray also -[2271.24 --> 2272.04] For a spirit of -[2272.04 --> 2273.12] Patience and cooperation -[2273.12 --> 2274.08] And working together -[2274.08 --> 2275.00] As we navigate -[2275.00 --> 2275.74] These changes -[2275.74 --> 2278.32] Lord we pray -[2278.32 --> 2278.62] Pray for the -[2278.62 --> 2278.98] Nearness -[2278.98 --> 2279.60] Your nearness -[2279.60 --> 2280.26] To all those -[2280.26 --> 2281.40] In our congregation -[2281.40 --> 2282.58] Who are isolated -[2282.58 --> 2283.80] Or shut in -[2283.80 --> 2284.96] Or maybe experiencing -[2284.96 --> 2285.56] Loneliness -[2285.56 --> 2286.24] Or depression -[2286.24 --> 2287.02] And anxiety -[2287.02 --> 2289.82] Illness or daily -[2289.82 --> 2290.42] Hardships -[2290.42 --> 2291.66] Mental health -[2291.66 --> 2292.30] Is a reality -[2292.30 --> 2292.90] These days -[2292.90 --> 2293.62] Lord and we pray -[2293.62 --> 2294.84] That they experience -[2294.84 --> 2295.52] Your unfailing -[2295.52 --> 2296.12] Strength and -[2296.12 --> 2296.72] Encouragement -[2296.72 --> 2298.44] During this time -[2298.44 --> 2300.62] We pray for those -[2300.62 --> 2301.26] In our congregation -[2301.26 --> 2301.62] Who have been -[2301.62 --> 2302.68] Diagnosed with COVID -[2302.68 --> 2304.82] For quick healing -[2304.82 --> 2305.58] And the Lord's hand -[2305.58 --> 2306.10] Of protection -[2306.10 --> 2306.84] Over their families -[2306.84 --> 2307.68] And their caregivers -[2307.68 --> 2309.60] We pray for strength -[2309.60 --> 2310.50] In navigating -[2310.50 --> 2312.00] The complications -[2312.00 --> 2313.18] As a result -[2313.18 --> 2314.04] Of this diagnosis -[2314.04 --> 2315.98] And we pray too -[2315.98 --> 2316.76] For the COVID -[2316.76 --> 2317.58] Long haulers -[2317.58 --> 2318.22] Who are continuing -[2318.22 --> 2319.08] To experiencing -[2319.08 --> 2320.06] Lasting effects -[2320.06 --> 2323.78] We pray for all -[2323.78 --> 2324.28] Of our medical -[2324.28 --> 2325.04] Professionals -[2325.04 --> 2326.44] Our frontline workers -[2326.44 --> 2327.32] Essential workers -[2327.32 --> 2328.42] For those in our -[2328.42 --> 2328.88] Congregation -[2328.88 --> 2329.52] Are working in -[2329.52 --> 2330.10] Hospitals -[2330.10 --> 2331.60] COVID units -[2331.60 --> 2332.58] And vaccine centers -[2332.58 --> 2333.12] And all other -[2333.12 --> 2333.90] Areas of care -[2333.90 --> 2335.58] For perseverance -[2335.58 --> 2336.54] And stamina -[2336.54 --> 2337.86] And for protection -[2337.86 --> 2340.08] Lord watch over them -[2340.08 --> 2341.14] And protect them -[2341.14 --> 2342.86] Lord we give thanks -[2342.86 --> 2344.26] That COVID case numbers -[2344.26 --> 2345.02] In this province -[2345.02 --> 2346.00] Continue to come down -[2346.00 --> 2346.54] And we pray that -[2346.54 --> 2348.06] This trend will continue -[2348.06 --> 2349.18] Into the summer months -[2349.18 --> 2349.98] We are hopeful -[2349.98 --> 2351.76] As we see -[2351.76 --> 2353.44] The light at the end -[2353.44 --> 2353.90] Of the tunnel -[2353.90 --> 2355.86] We also give thanks -[2355.86 --> 2356.66] That things are going -[2356.66 --> 2358.08] Are opening up again -[2358.08 --> 2359.30] And giving us all -[2359.30 --> 2359.90] That sense of -[2359.90 --> 2360.48] Slowly and getting -[2360.48 --> 2362.38] Back to a normal -[2362.38 --> 2363.30] Sense of life -[2363.30 --> 2365.46] Lord we pray for -[2365.46 --> 2365.90] All of us -[2365.90 --> 2366.42] As we continue -[2366.42 --> 2367.42] To have the patience -[2367.42 --> 2368.76] To practice the measures -[2368.76 --> 2370.48] Required to be safe -[2370.48 --> 2371.32] And considerate -[2371.32 --> 2372.32] Of those with whom -[2372.32 --> 2373.26] We are in contact -[2373.26 --> 2375.30] With for the safety -[2375.30 --> 2375.64] Of them -[2375.64 --> 2376.62] And the benefit of all -[2376.62 --> 2379.36] Lord we pray for -[2379.36 --> 2379.90] All the staff -[2379.90 --> 2380.38] And students -[2380.38 --> 2380.96] In our schools -[2380.96 --> 2381.58] As they prepare -[2381.58 --> 2382.52] To finish well -[2382.52 --> 2384.32] Especially in a -[2384.32 --> 2385.16] Challenging year -[2385.16 --> 2387.54] Many of the staff -[2387.54 --> 2387.94] And students -[2387.94 --> 2388.54] Are experiencing -[2388.54 --> 2389.92] Fatigue and weariness -[2389.92 --> 2390.74] And Lord we pray -[2390.74 --> 2392.42] That you continue -[2392.42 --> 2393.40] To keep them safe -[2393.40 --> 2393.92] And give them -[2393.92 --> 2394.66] An extra measure -[2394.66 --> 2395.56] Of your strength -[2395.56 --> 2396.22] And perseverance -[2396.22 --> 2397.24] In the final weeks -[2397.24 --> 2398.02] Of the school year -[2398.02 --> 2400.34] And Lord now -[2400.34 --> 2401.18] As Pastor Chris -[2401.18 --> 2402.06] Comes up to deliver -[2402.06 --> 2402.48] Your word -[2402.48 --> 2403.08] Lord we pray -[2403.08 --> 2403.80] That we may -[2403.80 --> 2405.30] Have hearts to hear -[2405.30 --> 2406.54] Your message -[2406.54 --> 2407.40] Your words -[2407.40 --> 2408.28] To us today -[2408.28 --> 2409.86] And that we may -[2409.86 --> 2410.96] Apply it -[2410.96 --> 2412.80] To our lives -[2412.80 --> 2413.40] This week -[2413.40 --> 2414.74] In your name -[2414.74 --> 2415.28] We pray -[2415.28 --> 2416.68] Amen -[2416.68 --> 2424.14] Before we -[2424.14 --> 2425.76] Open God's word -[2425.76 --> 2426.20] Together -[2426.20 --> 2428.20] I just want to -[2428.20 --> 2428.94] Echo something -[2428.94 --> 2430.16] That Kevin -[2430.16 --> 2430.72] Was praying -[2430.72 --> 2431.38] And add -[2431.38 --> 2432.52] My voice -[2432.52 --> 2432.92] To that -[2432.92 --> 2434.00] As we -[2434.00 --> 2434.86] Cry out -[2434.86 --> 2435.22] With -[2435.22 --> 2436.74] Our -[2436.74 --> 2438.96] Indigenous -[2438.96 --> 2439.56] Canadians -[2439.56 --> 2440.54] And -[2440.54 --> 2441.64] Mourn -[2441.64 --> 2442.32] With them -[2442.32 --> 2443.52] There's been -[2443.52 --> 2444.16] A lot of talk -[2444.16 --> 2445.50] About churches -[2445.50 --> 2445.98] And people -[2445.98 --> 2446.68] Being silent -[2446.68 --> 2447.30] And I just want -[2447.30 --> 2447.58] To say -[2447.58 --> 2447.92] That we -[2447.92 --> 2448.38] Are not -[2448.38 --> 2448.90] Silent -[2448.90 --> 2450.64] And that -[2450.64 --> 2451.10] There are -[2451.10 --> 2452.40] Lots of -[2452.40 --> 2452.86] Voices -[2452.86 --> 2453.54] And lots -[2453.54 --> 2454.02] Of prayers -[2454.02 --> 2454.48] And lots -[2454.48 --> 2455.48] Of efforts -[2455.48 --> 2456.22] That is coming -[2456.22 --> 2456.64] Out of our -[2456.64 --> 2456.94] Church -[2456.94 --> 2457.68] And the people -[2457.68 --> 2458.42] We support -[2458.42 --> 2459.16] And work with -[2459.16 --> 2460.62] And so if you -[2460.62 --> 2461.28] Haven't seen it -[2461.28 --> 2461.82] Yet we've made -[2461.82 --> 2462.28] A number of -[2462.28 --> 2463.00] Those resources -[2463.00 --> 2463.60] Available -[2463.60 --> 2464.34] And so in -[2464.34 --> 2464.88] The bulletin -[2464.88 --> 2465.40] That went out -[2465.40 --> 2465.98] This week -[2465.98 --> 2466.82] If you scroll -[2466.82 --> 2467.52] Down you'll find -[2467.52 --> 2468.54] An orange box -[2468.54 --> 2469.34] And there's a -[2469.34 --> 2470.64] Ministry update -[2470.64 --> 2471.50] From Tim and -[2471.50 --> 2472.24] Charity Johnson -[2472.24 --> 2473.04] Who work with -[2473.04 --> 2473.72] Name North -[2473.72 --> 2474.56] American Indigenous -[2474.56 --> 2475.08] Ministries -[2475.08 --> 2475.92] In Kamloops -[2475.92 --> 2476.66] And so they've -[2476.66 --> 2477.72] Written a -[2477.72 --> 2479.32] Response and a -[2479.32 --> 2480.48] Story and -[2480.48 --> 2480.98] Sharing what -[2480.98 --> 2481.76] This past couple -[2481.76 --> 2482.30] Weeks has been -[2482.30 --> 2482.84] Like for them -[2482.84 --> 2484.00] As well -[2484.00 --> 2485.82] Indigenous and -[2485.82 --> 2486.42] Non-Indigenous -[2486.42 --> 2487.10] Ministry leaders -[2487.10 --> 2487.40] From our -[2487.40 --> 2487.94] Denomination -[2487.94 --> 2488.42] The Christian -[2488.42 --> 2489.02] Reformed Church -[2489.02 --> 2489.74] Have put out -[2489.74 --> 2490.68] A statement -[2490.68 --> 2494.20] And an -[2494.20 --> 2495.02] Indigenous leader -[2495.02 --> 2495.78] In our -[2495.78 --> 2496.36] Community -[2496.36 --> 2497.32] And in our -[2497.32 --> 2497.80] Church -[2497.80 --> 2499.52] Has put together -[2499.52 --> 2500.00] A prayer -[2500.00 --> 2501.30] And that is -[2501.30 --> 2501.92] All available -[2501.92 --> 2502.54] You can find -[2502.54 --> 2503.16] That in our -[2503.16 --> 2504.44] E-bulletin -[2504.44 --> 2504.86] And so we -[2504.86 --> 2505.24] Encourage you -[2505.24 --> 2506.46] To check that -[2506.46 --> 2506.98] Out to pray -[2506.98 --> 2507.54] Those prayers -[2507.54 --> 2508.60] And to ask -[2508.60 --> 2509.24] What we can -[2509.24 --> 2510.16] Do as a -[2510.16 --> 2510.60] Community -[2510.60 --> 2511.64] Together -[2511.64 --> 2513.82] We're going -[2513.82 --> 2514.58] To come to -[2514.58 --> 2515.12] God's word -[2515.12 --> 2516.10] Now and -[2516.10 --> 2516.96] Reflect on -[2516.96 --> 2518.14] What God -[2518.14 --> 2518.92] Is saying to -[2518.92 --> 2519.52] Us in the -[2519.52 --> 2519.92] Book of -[2519.92 --> 2520.44] James and -[2520.44 --> 2520.68] So I'm -[2520.68 --> 2520.90] Going to -[2520.90 --> 2521.72] Invite you -[2521.72 --> 2522.04] If you have -[2522.04 --> 2522.36] A bible -[2522.36 --> 2523.44] Handy to -[2523.44 --> 2523.88] Open it -[2523.88 --> 2524.72] And turn to -[2524.72 --> 2525.88] James 5 -[2525.88 --> 2526.48] If it's -[2526.48 --> 2527.06] Your phone -[2527.06 --> 2527.70] Turn it on -[2527.70 --> 2528.14] Get that -[2528.14 --> 2528.86] Ready and -[2528.86 --> 2529.72] We will read -[2529.72 --> 2530.08] Together -[2530.08 --> 2530.78] James 5 -[2530.78 --> 2531.04] We're going -[2531.04 --> 2531.40] To begin -[2531.40 --> 2532.34] At verse -[2532.34 --> 2533.02] 13 -[2533.02 --> 2535.14] And read -[2535.14 --> 2537.04] Through the -[2537.04 --> 2538.04] End of -[2538.04 --> 2538.40] The book -[2538.40 --> 2541.46] James writes -[2541.46 --> 2544.04] Is anyone -[2544.04 --> 2544.50] Among you -[2544.50 --> 2544.96] In trouble -[2544.96 --> 2546.28] Let them -[2546.28 --> 2546.60] Pray -[2546.60 --> 2548.44] Is anyone -[2548.44 --> 2548.86] Happy -[2548.86 --> 2550.06] Let them -[2550.06 --> 2550.88] Sing songs -[2550.88 --> 2551.60] Of praise -[2551.60 --> 2552.60] Is anyone -[2552.60 --> 2553.30] Among you -[2553.30 --> 2553.76] Sick -[2553.76 --> 2554.68] Let them -[2554.68 --> 2555.54] Call on the -[2555.54 --> 2556.18] Elders of the -[2556.18 --> 2556.64] Church to -[2556.64 --> 2557.16] Pray over -[2557.16 --> 2557.64] Them and -[2557.64 --> 2558.18] Anoint them -[2558.18 --> 2558.66] With oil -[2558.66 --> 2559.20] In the name -[2559.20 --> 2559.42] Of the -[2559.42 --> 2559.68] Lord -[2559.68 --> 2561.00] And the -[2561.00 --> 2561.34] Prayer -[2561.34 --> 2562.08] Offered in -[2562.08 --> 2563.06] Faith will -[2563.06 --> 2563.50] Make the -[2563.50 --> 2564.10] Sick person -[2564.10 --> 2564.38] Well -[2564.38 --> 2565.50] The Lord -[2565.50 --> 2566.04] Will raise -[2566.04 --> 2566.50] Them up -[2566.50 --> 2567.40] If they -[2567.40 --> 2568.00] Have sinned -[2568.00 --> 2568.38] They will -[2568.38 --> 2568.92] Be forgiven -[2568.92 --> 2570.22] Therefore -[2570.22 --> 2571.22] Confess your -[2571.22 --> 2571.80] Sins to -[2571.80 --> 2572.22] Each other -[2572.22 --> 2572.98] And pray -[2572.98 --> 2573.50] For each -[2573.50 --> 2574.02] Other so -[2574.02 --> 2574.50] That you -[2574.50 --> 2574.94] May be -[2574.94 --> 2575.30] Healed -[2575.30 --> 2576.84] The prayer -[2576.84 --> 2577.24] Of a -[2577.24 --> 2577.62] Righteous -[2577.62 --> 2578.42] Person is -[2578.42 --> 2579.26] Powerful -[2579.26 --> 2580.42] And effective -[2580.42 --> 2583.22] Elijah was -[2583.22 --> 2583.78] A human -[2583.78 --> 2584.18] Being -[2584.18 --> 2585.22] Even as -[2585.22 --> 2585.78] We are -[2585.78 --> 2586.60] He prayed -[2586.60 --> 2587.12] Earnestly -[2587.12 --> 2587.50] That it -[2587.50 --> 2587.82] Would not -[2587.82 --> 2588.16] Rain -[2588.16 --> 2588.58] And it -[2588.58 --> 2589.00] Did not -[2589.00 --> 2589.26] Rain -[2589.26 --> 2589.64] On the -[2589.64 --> 2589.88] Land -[2589.88 --> 2590.44] For three -[2590.44 --> 2590.72] And a -[2590.72 --> 2590.94] Half -[2590.94 --> 2591.36] Years -[2591.36 --> 2592.90] Again -[2592.90 --> 2593.54] He prayed -[2593.54 --> 2594.10] And the -[2594.10 --> 2594.52] Heavens -[2594.52 --> 2595.22] Gave rain -[2595.22 --> 2595.56] And the -[2595.56 --> 2595.84] Earth -[2595.84 --> 2596.38] Produced -[2596.38 --> 2597.00] Its crops -[2597.00 --> 2598.96] My -[2598.96 --> 2599.22] Brothers -[2599.22 --> 2599.84] And sisters -[2599.84 --> 2601.86] If any -[2601.86 --> 2602.82] Of you -[2602.82 --> 2603.50] Should wander -[2603.50 --> 2603.92] From the -[2603.92 --> 2604.28] Truth -[2604.28 --> 2604.92] And someone -[2604.92 --> 2605.54] Should bring -[2605.54 --> 2606.14] That person -[2606.14 --> 2606.50] Back -[2606.50 --> 2607.28] Remember -[2607.28 --> 2607.94] This -[2607.94 --> 2609.24] Whoever -[2609.24 --> 2609.88] Turns -[2609.88 --> 2610.52] A sinner -[2610.52 --> 2611.36] From the -[2611.36 --> 2611.66] Error -[2611.66 --> 2612.06] Of their -[2612.06 --> 2612.38] Way -[2612.38 --> 2613.08] Will save -[2613.08 --> 2613.34] Them -[2613.34 --> 2614.04] From death -[2614.04 --> 2614.66] And cover -[2614.66 --> 2615.38] Over a -[2615.38 --> 2616.10] Multitude -[2616.10 --> 2617.52] Of sins -[2617.52 --> 2619.30] This is -[2619.30 --> 2619.58] The word -[2619.58 --> 2619.80] Of the -[2619.80 --> 2620.02] Lord -[2620.02 --> 2626.66] Now -[2626.66 --> 2628.22] How many -[2628.22 --> 2628.74] Of you -[2628.74 --> 2629.62] Here this -[2629.62 --> 2629.88] Morning -[2629.88 --> 2630.68] Are watching -[2630.68 --> 2631.14] Online -[2631.14 --> 2632.24] Are list -[2632.24 --> 2632.88] Makers -[2632.88 --> 2634.94] Right -[2634.94 --> 2635.12] If you -[2635.12 --> 2635.34] Got a -[2635.34 --> 2635.54] Bunch -[2635.54 --> 2635.94] Of stuff -[2635.94 --> 2636.36] To do -[2636.36 --> 2636.68] In a -[2636.68 --> 2637.02] Day -[2637.02 --> 2638.20] The first -[2638.20 --> 2638.54] Thing you -[2638.54 --> 2638.94] Do is -[2638.94 --> 2639.30] Make a -[2639.30 --> 2639.64] List -[2639.64 --> 2641.90] Now -[2641.90 --> 2642.52] I confess -[2642.52 --> 2642.82] That's -[2642.82 --> 2643.26] Something I -[2643.26 --> 2643.46] Don't -[2643.46 --> 2643.94] Understand -[2643.94 --> 2646.80] If the -[2646.80 --> 2647.16] First thing -[2647.16 --> 2647.40] You have -[2647.40 --> 2647.70] To do -[2647.70 --> 2648.34] Is make -[2648.34 --> 2648.60] A list -[2648.60 --> 2648.84] Aren't -[2648.84 --> 2649.14] You just -[2649.14 --> 2649.52] Adding -[2649.52 --> 2650.26] A thing -[2650.26 --> 2651.04] To the -[2651.04 --> 2651.38] List -[2651.38 --> 2651.82] Of things -[2651.82 --> 2652.62] You have -[2652.62 --> 2652.94] To do -[2652.94 --> 2654.06] Now how -[2654.06 --> 2654.30] Many of -[2654.30 --> 2654.62] You actually -[2654.62 --> 2655.18] Would start -[2655.18 --> 2655.76] The list -[2655.76 --> 2656.54] With make -[2656.54 --> 2656.96] A list -[2656.96 --> 2657.42] So that -[2657.42 --> 2657.76] Immediately -[2657.76 --> 2658.16] You can -[2658.16 --> 2658.58] Cross that -[2658.58 --> 2658.88] Off -[2658.88 --> 2662.64] I'm not -[2662.64 --> 2663.00] A list -[2663.00 --> 2663.32] Maker -[2663.32 --> 2664.26] You're probably -[2664.26 --> 2664.88] Figuring that -[2664.88 --> 2665.02] Out -[2665.02 --> 2665.64] I am a -[2665.64 --> 2666.30] Note taker -[2666.30 --> 2667.98] But I'm -[2667.98 --> 2668.24] Not a -[2668.24 --> 2668.82] List maker -[2668.82 --> 2670.70] Rachel -[2670.70 --> 2671.68] My lovely -[2671.68 --> 2672.16] Wife -[2672.16 --> 2672.72] On the -[2672.72 --> 2673.16] Other hand -[2673.16 --> 2674.46] She is -[2674.46 --> 2674.94] A list -[2674.94 --> 2675.18] Maker -[2675.18 --> 2675.62] She is -[2675.62 --> 2676.00] The kind -[2676.00 --> 2676.30] Of list -[2676.30 --> 2676.52] Maker -[2676.52 --> 2677.02] Who writes -[2677.02 --> 2677.38] Make a -[2677.38 --> 2677.76] List on -[2677.76 --> 2678.10] Top of -[2678.10 --> 2678.42] The list -[2678.42 --> 2678.76] So that -[2678.76 --> 2679.02] She can -[2679.02 --> 2679.38] Cross it -[2679.38 --> 2679.52] Off -[2679.52 --> 2679.70] Of the -[2679.70 --> 2679.98] List -[2679.98 --> 2682.64] Years ago -[2682.64 --> 2684.32] We moved -[2684.32 --> 2685.16] To the -[2685.16 --> 2685.66] U.S. -[2685.70 --> 2685.96] We moved -[2685.96 --> 2686.28] To Grand -[2686.28 --> 2686.60] Rapids -[2686.60 --> 2687.76] Michigan -[2687.76 --> 2688.32] So I -[2688.32 --> 2688.76] Could go -[2688.76 --> 2689.60] To school -[2689.60 --> 2691.36] And she -[2691.36 --> 2691.66] Did the -[2691.66 --> 2692.12] Same thing -[2692.12 --> 2692.46] When we -[2692.46 --> 2692.96] Moved back -[2692.96 --> 2693.48] Three years -[2693.48 --> 2693.76] Later -[2693.76 --> 2694.22] Back to -[2694.22 --> 2694.66] Ontario -[2694.66 --> 2695.72] She had -[2695.72 --> 2696.68] An itemized -[2696.68 --> 2697.52] Organized -[2697.52 --> 2698.50] Categorized -[2698.50 --> 2699.24] Color coded -[2699.24 --> 2699.84] List of -[2699.84 --> 2700.60] Every single -[2700.60 --> 2701.12] Possession -[2701.12 --> 2701.78] We owned -[2701.78 --> 2702.34] And had -[2702.34 --> 2703.08] Packed away -[2703.08 --> 2704.20] And stacked -[2704.20 --> 2704.78] Into the -[2704.78 --> 2705.02] Moving -[2705.02 --> 2705.34] Truck -[2705.34 --> 2706.88] Now I -[2706.88 --> 2707.06] Didn't -[2707.06 --> 2707.44] Realize -[2707.44 --> 2707.78] We had -[2707.78 --> 2707.94] That -[2707.94 --> 2708.16] Much -[2708.16 --> 2708.70] Stuff -[2708.70 --> 2709.44] Right -[2709.44 --> 2710.38] But when -[2710.38 --> 2710.72] Eating -[2710.72 --> 2711.30] Utensils -[2711.30 --> 2711.76] And cooking -[2711.76 --> 2712.28] Utensils -[2712.28 --> 2712.80] And barbecue -[2712.80 --> 2713.36] Utensils -[2713.36 --> 2713.98] Each get -[2713.98 --> 2714.34] A line -[2714.34 --> 2714.60] On the -[2714.60 --> 2714.90] List -[2714.90 --> 2715.52] Rather than -[2715.52 --> 2716.44] Just utensils -[2716.44 --> 2717.80] Or cutlery -[2717.80 --> 2719.28] Lists -[2719.28 --> 2719.74] Start to -[2719.74 --> 2720.12] Expand -[2720.12 --> 2722.96] Now I -[2722.96 --> 2723.12] Don't know -[2723.12 --> 2723.36] How many -[2723.36 --> 2723.56] Of you -[2723.56 --> 2724.10] Have moved -[2724.10 --> 2724.88] Internationally -[2724.88 --> 2725.56] Before but -[2725.56 --> 2725.86] When you -[2725.86 --> 2726.54] Move into -[2726.54 --> 2726.98] A new -[2726.98 --> 2727.44] Country -[2727.44 --> 2728.40] The customs -[2728.40 --> 2728.88] Officials -[2728.88 --> 2729.56] Have every -[2729.56 --> 2729.96] Right -[2729.96 --> 2731.42] Even the -[2731.42 --> 2731.94] Prerogative -[2731.94 --> 2732.74] Really to -[2732.74 --> 2733.78] Open up -[2733.78 --> 2734.22] The truck -[2734.22 --> 2734.60] And to -[2734.60 --> 2735.08] Go through -[2735.08 --> 2735.74] Whatever it -[2735.74 --> 2736.80] Is that -[2736.80 --> 2738.28] They choose -[2738.28 --> 2739.56] And so we -[2739.56 --> 2740.14] Drove up to -[2740.14 --> 2740.50] The border -[2740.50 --> 2740.96] Crossing -[2740.96 --> 2742.32] We handed -[2742.32 --> 2742.76] Them our -[2742.76 --> 2743.20] Exchange -[2743.20 --> 2743.58] Visitor -[2743.58 --> 2744.50] Paperwork -[2744.50 --> 2745.06] And the -[2745.06 --> 2745.92] Giant list -[2745.92 --> 2746.50] Which Rachel -[2746.50 --> 2747.00] Had nicely -[2747.00 --> 2747.62] Put together -[2747.62 --> 2748.50] In a binder -[2748.50 --> 2749.08] With color -[2749.08 --> 2749.86] Coded tabs -[2749.86 --> 2750.52] For each -[2750.52 --> 2751.04] Section in -[2751.04 --> 2751.42] Each room -[2751.42 --> 2751.72] In each -[2751.72 --> 2752.04] House -[2752.04 --> 2753.20] And all -[2753.20 --> 2753.44] Of our -[2753.44 --> 2753.86] Possessions -[2753.86 --> 2754.30] The guy -[2754.30 --> 2755.04] Flipped through -[2755.04 --> 2755.64] The pages -[2755.64 --> 2756.16] He looked -[2756.16 --> 2756.44] At our -[2756.44 --> 2756.80] Truck -[2756.80 --> 2757.48] He looked -[2757.48 --> 2757.96] At Rachel -[2757.96 --> 2758.26] And he -[2758.26 --> 2758.50] Said -[2758.50 --> 2760.06] I wish -[2760.06 --> 2760.74] Everyone did -[2760.74 --> 2761.12] This when -[2761.12 --> 2761.60] They moved -[2761.60 --> 2763.18] Have a nice -[2763.18 --> 2763.50] Day -[2763.50 --> 2764.68] And we -[2764.68 --> 2765.20] Drove right -[2765.20 --> 2765.54] Through -[2765.54 --> 2767.90] Now sometimes -[2767.90 --> 2768.72] Lists help -[2768.72 --> 2772.12] In the series -[2772.12 --> 2772.54] That we have -[2772.54 --> 2773.56] Been looking -[2773.56 --> 2774.84] At in -[2774.84 --> 2775.22] James -[2775.22 --> 2775.54] We've -[2775.54 --> 2775.94] Looked at -[2775.94 --> 2776.72] Every bit -[2776.72 --> 2777.98] Of James -[2777.98 --> 2778.56] Now I -[2778.56 --> 2778.86] Don't know -[2778.86 --> 2779.72] About you -[2779.72 --> 2780.62] But it's -[2780.62 --> 2780.98] Been really -[2780.98 --> 2781.34] Interesting -[2781.34 --> 2781.82] For me -[2781.82 --> 2782.38] And fun -[2782.38 --> 2782.96] For me -[2782.96 --> 2784.00] To start -[2784.00 --> 2784.24] At the -[2784.24 --> 2784.48] Beginning -[2784.48 --> 2784.80] Of the -[2784.80 --> 2785.02] Book -[2785.02 --> 2785.36] And to -[2785.36 --> 2785.90] Work our -[2785.90 --> 2786.22] Way -[2786.22 --> 2786.96] All the -[2786.96 --> 2787.14] Way -[2787.14 --> 2787.40] Through -[2787.40 --> 2787.80] And I've -[2787.80 --> 2788.18] Really -[2788.18 --> 2788.74] Been -[2788.74 --> 2789.92] Appreciative -[2789.92 --> 2790.34] And really -[2790.34 --> 2790.90] Encouraged -[2790.90 --> 2791.58] By your -[2791.58 --> 2792.26] Interaction -[2792.26 --> 2793.10] And your -[2793.10 --> 2793.44] Emails -[2793.44 --> 2795.72] Foruc -[2795.72 --> 2795.98] And -[2795.98 --> 2805.06] really good. And I hope that in this series, we've seen the importance of making our faith real by -[2805.06 --> 2811.12] being hearers and doers of the Word, right? That's the phrase that we have been using throughout. -[2811.20 --> 2816.24] That's the title of this series, Hearers and Doers, and it comes from chapter 1, verse 22. -[2816.78 --> 2822.56] Maybe you remember it, right? Do not merely listen to the Word and so deceive yourselves, -[2822.56 --> 2831.92] but do what it says, right? It's not enough just to hear it. You got to do it. Christian living, -[2832.16 --> 2838.34] Christian discipleship, following Jesus, having a faith made real means it's going to show up in -[2838.34 --> 2843.66] your life. You're going to look different. You're going to talk differently. You're going to do -[2843.66 --> 2853.56] different. You're going to be different. And we've said it all along. If you are a Christian, -[2854.26 --> 2862.44] but your life is no different than the next guy who's not, you've got to be asking yourself some -[2862.44 --> 2869.72] pretty hard questions. And if you say that you love God and you even go to church or you haven't -[2869.72 --> 2877.04] missed a digital service in the last five months, but you sound and look exactly like the girl over -[2877.04 --> 2886.08] there in every other aspect of your life, what really is the point? Faith without deeds is dead. -[2886.68 --> 2895.58] That's what James says in this letter. Hearers who aren't doers deceive themselves into thinking that -[2895.58 --> 2902.60] we aren't really dead, that we aren't really spiritually dead and stuck in whatever mire this -[2902.60 --> 2912.92] is. But if on the other hand, you are doing and making your faith real, there's an assurance that -[2912.92 --> 2920.62] comes to us, right? If you are working to take every thought captive to Christ, if you are fighting to -[2920.62 --> 2928.70] make every square inch of your life belong to Jesus, if you are hearing and doing, that is God -[2928.70 --> 2935.20] working in his spirit in you to transform you into the image of Jesus, his son. -[2937.90 --> 2948.32] Your doing is the fruit of a real faith. And throughout this letter, we have seen James take the -[2948.32 --> 2954.22] teachings of Jesus that he has internalized and expand on them. He's doing the same thing here. -[2955.10 --> 2959.36] Jesus says in Matthew 7, near the end of the Sermon on the Mount, he says, -[2960.64 --> 2968.10] by their fruit, you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles? -[2969.12 --> 2975.94] Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good fruit tree cannot bear -[2975.94 --> 2981.48] bad fruit. And a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down -[2981.48 --> 2991.12] and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit, you will recognize them. By their fruit, you are recognized -[2991.12 --> 3004.02] as a genuine hearer and doer, as a faith made real disciple of Jesus. Hearers must be doers. Your faith must be -[3004.02 --> 3012.06] made real. Real faith is shown by the real fruit in your life. And the fruit of the Spirit is love, -[3012.54 --> 3019.56] joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. -[3021.62 --> 3027.80] Look, here's a really simple illustration, and it's apropos of my life right now. -[3027.80 --> 3034.66] You can come up with one that's more fitting for your life and situation. But if I ask my kids to -[3034.66 --> 3041.04] clean their room, and they say, okay, dad, I hear you, but then they walk away and go jump on the -[3041.04 --> 3048.50] trampoline, their hearing is pointless. It didn't lead to action. It didn't lead to obedience. It -[3048.50 --> 3054.94] didn't lead to doing what they were supposed to do. But, and here's where it gets a little bit harder, -[3054.94 --> 3061.78] and here's where the Bible is an equal opportunity offender or convictor, right? If when my kids -[3061.78 --> 3068.72] don't go clean their rooms, but go to the trampoline, and then I lose my patience, and I start yelling, -[3069.26 --> 3079.84] I'm not doing any better. My fruit isn't helping them be doers. Because you see, not only am I teaching -[3079.84 --> 3086.32] my kids how to respond when they get angry by how I respond when I get angry, right? And so I really -[3086.32 --> 3091.66] do want to model gentleness and respect. I really do want to show patience to them. But even more than -[3091.66 --> 3101.00] that, my life is a testimony of God to them. Your life is telling a story of faith and faithfulness. -[3101.00 --> 3106.94] And to be really clear, your life is meant to be telling the story of Jesus. -[3108.98 --> 3116.44] Jesus who, yes, when he was angry overturned tables. But the same Jesus who listened to Peter -[3116.44 --> 3124.68] and restored him to love and purpose after Peter denied him three times. The same Jesus who sees -[3124.68 --> 3133.96] Judas approach him in the garden to betray him with a kiss and still says, friend, do what you must. -[3134.80 --> 3140.14] The same Jesus who, while hanging on the cross, and the people who were gathered around him hurled -[3140.14 --> 3146.92] insults at him and mocked him, said, Father, forgive them, for they know not what they are doing. -[3146.92 --> 3157.28] You can be gentle because Jesus was gentle for you. You can be faithful to others because Jesus was -[3157.28 --> 3164.38] faithful for you. You can love others because he first loved you. What Jesus did for you, -[3164.52 --> 3170.46] he is now doing in you so that he can do it through you to others around you. -[3170.46 --> 3185.26] And so, even when my friend and colleague beats me at golf and then publicly shames me in his sermon -[3185.26 --> 3195.22] for beating me at golf in a sermon on patience, I can be a model of patience. Because Jesus took all -[3195.22 --> 3203.00] my impatience and bore it on the cross. My friend is still learning how to do that. Right, Pastor Kevin? -[3206.38 --> 3215.28] As Christians, we have to be different. We have to live compelling lives that demand a gospel -[3215.28 --> 3222.14] explanation. Point of fact, the point of James, the point of Jesus before him, the point of Paul and -[3222.14 --> 3228.54] Peter beside him is that you will be different. Real faith makes you different. If anyone is in -[3228.54 --> 3235.72] Christ, they are a new creation. And so, be a new creation. Be different. And if the world thinks you -[3235.72 --> 3241.80] are a fool, be the biggest fool for Jesus that you can be. If the world thinks that your life is weird, -[3242.10 --> 3248.32] be the weirdest, grace-giving, living person you can be. If your neighbors don't understand you, -[3248.32 --> 3251.86] be the mystery that reveals the gospel to them. -[3255.86 --> 3268.34] But you see, there is a danger in all of this. There is a potential unintended outcome of a sermon -[3268.34 --> 3274.40] series like this, of talking about obedience like this, of talking about radical obedience as a mark of -[3274.40 --> 3281.30] authentic discipleship. Right, because sometimes we just end up reducing what is supposed to be evidence -[3281.30 --> 3289.92] of heart transformation into a checklist of behaviors and attitudes to cross off. -[3291.12 --> 3298.90] That we can nicely organize and we can say, done, did it, got it, good. -[3298.90 --> 3306.36] We make a list of things that we are supposed to do and a list of things that we are not supposed to do -[3306.36 --> 3313.86] and we work hard at that. We like to check boxes because that's manageable, especially when it's -[3313.86 --> 3321.64] manageable in our own power and our own ability. That's the kind of religion we want. Make it clear, -[3322.02 --> 3327.36] make it obvious. Don't make it too hard, but don't make it too easy either because I don't want it to be -[3327.36 --> 3332.84] that easy. Tell me exactly where the boundary line is so that I can come right up to the edge, -[3333.16 --> 3338.12] maybe stick my toe over it just a little bit, but so I know how far is too far. -[3340.66 --> 3349.02] In life, we like lists because it helps us stay on track and make sure we get it all done. In our -[3349.02 --> 3354.98] religion and our faith, we like lists because it's concrete and ultimately it helps feed our excuses. -[3354.98 --> 3361.94] Well, that's not on the list, so it must be a bit of a gray area. I think it'll be okay. -[3362.78 --> 3366.58] I don't have to worry about that. I don't have to be different in that. -[3368.46 --> 3374.72] And so, as we end this series on James, if you're coming out of it thinking like that, -[3374.84 --> 3379.28] like that, if you're coming out of it thinking that we've just created a long list and checklist, -[3379.28 --> 3385.58] then we haven't done it right as leaders and preachers, or you haven't heard it right. -[3387.00 --> 3391.50] Because you see, through it all, I've been, and I know that Kevin and Josh were too, -[3391.86 --> 3399.48] very careful to leave, in one part, the application up to you. And don't get me wrong, right? I think -[3399.48 --> 3404.62] we've preached a very practical, meaning-filled series on here, but we've intentionally preached -[3404.62 --> 3412.56] principles more than prescribed actions. We do the work of preaching in the power of the Spirit and -[3412.56 --> 3418.12] prayer. You do the work of application in the same power of the Spirit and prayer. -[3420.48 --> 3428.26] And so today, as we end here, this Christian living isn't a series of checklists to be managed. -[3428.26 --> 3435.54] Christian living isn't a series of checklists to be managed. Instead, a hearer and doer faith made -[3435.54 --> 3442.84] real has a series of checks and balances by which we manage life and faith. -[3444.26 --> 3450.26] What we see in these eight verses, these last verses of James, is what we've seen throughout the -[3450.26 --> 3457.10] whole letter. James is giving us principles to live by as hearers and doers. -[3457.10 --> 3464.80] Remember, this isn't a checklist to cross off so that you can say you did it. These are checks by -[3464.80 --> 3472.12] which you live a balanced Christian life. And so I see five of them for us to focus on quickly. -[3473.10 --> 3482.72] A hearer and doer prays. A hearer and doer praises. Three, a hearer and doer belongs to a people. -[3482.72 --> 3489.16] Four, a hearer and doer practices confession. And then five, lastly, a hearer and doer practices -[3489.16 --> 3497.54] discipleship. If you like lists, here it is for you in a list format. Prayer, praise, part of a people, -[3497.84 --> 3506.06] practice confession, practice discipleship. Start with prayer. Is anyone among you in trouble? James says. -[3506.06 --> 3512.20] Let them pray. Is anyone sick? Let them call on the elders to pray. -[3513.10 --> 3519.26] He goes on. Pray for each other. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. -[3519.82 --> 3524.82] Prayer is mentioned seven times in this little section. Prayer is all over it. -[3525.08 --> 3527.56] And prayer should be all over the Christian life. -[3527.56 --> 3536.78] Look, James just finished a discussion on patience and Pastor Kevin walked us through that. And so often -[3536.78 --> 3542.92] when we think about patience, we think about just sort of waiting around. But the kind of patience that -[3542.92 --> 3552.56] is fruit of the Spirit is not a passive patience. It's an active patience. Prayer is the act of faith. -[3552.56 --> 3561.80] Prayer is the lifeblood of Christian living. The kind of patience James is talking about only comes from God -[3561.80 --> 3571.24] and prayer is the way to get it. So how do you pray? How often do you pray? -[3573.08 --> 3577.74] Maybe all you ever pray is a form prayer and those are good. Don't hear what I'm not saying. Those are so -[3577.74 --> 3582.08] good and so important as we are learning how to pray. And Jesus teaches his disciples in the Lord's -[3582.08 --> 3589.96] prayer. And we've recited that for millennia since then. But maybe try something extemporaneous -[3589.96 --> 3597.18] and free form. Maybe try a listening prayer. Because prayer works. It really does. -[3599.76 --> 3608.38] I was two months into my ministry as pastor. 27 years old. Super green. No real experience. -[3608.38 --> 3615.56] And a member of our church was in the hospital. 80 something years old. He couldn't breathe. He had -[3615.56 --> 3623.16] been on supplemental oxygen for 15 years. By all accounts, he was dying. One of the church elders -[3623.16 --> 3629.86] called me up and said, let's go to the hospital and anoint John with oil and pray for healing. -[3629.86 --> 3635.12] He said, that's what James tells us to do. So that's what we should do. -[3637.54 --> 3640.36] So who might argue with James? That's what we did. -[3641.74 --> 3646.48] The prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well. The Lord will raise him up. -[3648.54 --> 3649.54] Two days later, -[3650.74 --> 3651.42] John died. -[3652.80 --> 3656.02] Grounded by his wife and kids as they sang, -[3656.02 --> 3657.54] Great is thy faithfulness together. -[3660.34 --> 3661.64] And I thought to myself, -[3662.52 --> 3662.92] Man, -[3663.60 --> 3664.34] I prayed. -[3664.92 --> 3666.16] I prayed in faith. -[3666.58 --> 3668.02] I anointed him with oil. -[3668.28 --> 3669.72] And I had the church elders there. -[3670.08 --> 3671.72] We checked every box. -[3673.76 --> 3674.88] And it didn't work. -[3677.08 --> 3679.70] Christian living isn't a series of checklists -[3679.70 --> 3680.80] to be managed. -[3681.16 --> 3681.88] It is principles -[3681.88 --> 3683.14] to live by. -[3684.02 --> 3684.72] Later that day, -[3684.84 --> 3686.90] I sat down across from his wife -[3686.90 --> 3688.08] and with tears -[3688.08 --> 3690.84] mixed with a twinkle in her eye -[3690.84 --> 3694.00] like only an 80-year-old Dutch lady can have -[3694.00 --> 3694.88] every once in a while, -[3695.00 --> 3695.50] she said, -[3695.90 --> 3697.66] The Lord answered my prayer. -[3698.72 --> 3699.72] And I know that -[3699.72 --> 3701.42] he will raise John up. -[3702.48 --> 3704.20] It wasn't the healing I wanted, -[3704.58 --> 3706.10] but it was the healing he needed. -[3707.30 --> 3708.66] She helped me see that. -[3708.66 --> 3712.22] Prayer matters. -[3715.54 --> 3717.08] Hearer and doer praises. -[3718.20 --> 3719.12] Is anyone happy? -[3719.24 --> 3719.68] James says, -[3719.80 --> 3721.10] Let them sing. -[3721.18 --> 3722.64] Now, I don't have to tell you this, right? -[3722.76 --> 3724.28] But Christians sing. -[3724.82 --> 3725.60] Even now, -[3725.74 --> 3727.30] when we can't sing, -[3727.36 --> 3728.22] I know some of you are. -[3728.68 --> 3729.60] Some of you can't help it. -[3730.58 --> 3730.70] Right? -[3730.74 --> 3732.54] And so you're singing quietly into your mass -[3732.54 --> 3733.14] because you're not sure -[3733.14 --> 3734.32] what the person beside you is going to say. -[3734.46 --> 3735.30] But it just happens. -[3735.68 --> 3736.80] It happens to me all the time -[3736.80 --> 3737.94] in these services. -[3738.66 --> 3741.50] Christians sing. -[3742.10 --> 3742.76] We praise. -[3743.08 --> 3743.72] And we worship. -[3744.48 --> 3744.88] And tonight, -[3745.00 --> 3746.00] there's a live stream -[3746.00 --> 3747.40] and you can join us at 730. -[3748.14 --> 3749.62] But all throughout the Bible, -[3749.82 --> 3751.06] we are called to rejoice -[3751.06 --> 3752.12] and to give thanks, -[3752.26 --> 3752.70] to sing, -[3752.84 --> 3753.26] to praise, -[3753.38 --> 3753.86] to shout, -[3754.24 --> 3755.02] to dance, -[3755.20 --> 3756.40] and to be silent -[3756.40 --> 3758.40] in adoration of who God is. -[3758.40 --> 3761.68] I said it recently -[3761.68 --> 3764.02] in one of the songs of prayer, -[3764.14 --> 3764.88] weekly devotions -[3764.88 --> 3766.46] that go out on Wednesdays. -[3767.24 --> 3768.18] As a Christian, -[3768.38 --> 3770.96] your life is a musical of praise -[3770.96 --> 3772.18] to God -[3772.18 --> 3773.42] as all creation -[3773.42 --> 3774.42] and all the angels -[3774.42 --> 3775.64] and all the saints in heaven -[3775.64 --> 3777.30] and the church here below -[3777.30 --> 3779.16] sings the praise of God -[3779.16 --> 3780.20] in every day, -[3780.72 --> 3781.42] in every way. -[3781.42 --> 3784.06] Christians sing. -[3785.46 --> 3787.86] Hearers and doers praise. -[3788.80 --> 3792.26] Be defined by praise. -[3794.26 --> 3798.10] A hearer and doer belongs to a people. -[3798.94 --> 3800.72] If you've got the Bible open in front of you -[3800.72 --> 3801.40] to James 5, -[3801.52 --> 3803.16] look carefully at the text. -[3804.16 --> 3804.56] James says, -[3804.56 --> 3806.92] is anyone among you? -[3807.86 --> 3809.00] Anyone among you? -[3809.10 --> 3810.80] That's group language. -[3811.54 --> 3812.14] He says, -[3812.48 --> 3814.88] call the elders of the church. -[3815.24 --> 3816.14] Of the church. -[3816.22 --> 3817.14] Be part of a church. -[3817.56 --> 3818.42] A Christian, -[3818.72 --> 3820.20] a hearer and doer, -[3820.30 --> 3821.22] a disciple of Jesus -[3821.22 --> 3825.64] rightly belongs to the people of God. -[3827.12 --> 3829.66] Confess your sins to each other. -[3830.64 --> 3832.68] Pray for each other. -[3832.96 --> 3833.56] Each other. -[3833.56 --> 3835.84] Each other means each other, right? -[3835.90 --> 3836.58] Each other means -[3836.58 --> 3838.94] there are others around each of you -[3838.94 --> 3840.58] with whom you are with -[3840.58 --> 3842.36] and to whom you belong. -[3843.68 --> 3844.96] These people pray together -[3844.96 --> 3846.12] and sing together. -[3846.48 --> 3848.14] James might be using the language -[3848.14 --> 3849.10] of the elders -[3849.10 --> 3850.74] who pray for the sick, -[3850.86 --> 3851.52] but that's because -[3851.52 --> 3853.24] they can't come to the fellowship -[3853.24 --> 3854.56] because they are sick -[3854.56 --> 3855.90] and so the elders go to them -[3855.90 --> 3857.54] and represent the fellowship. -[3857.92 --> 3859.12] Elders who are being installed -[3859.12 --> 3859.86] this morning, -[3859.98 --> 3860.64] hear that. -[3860.64 --> 3864.28] But for everyone else, -[3864.70 --> 3866.84] it's about the fellowship. -[3867.18 --> 3869.12] The emphasis in verse 16 -[3869.12 --> 3870.40] and here is praying -[3870.40 --> 3872.38] and singing with each other. -[3873.88 --> 3874.70] Throughout this letter, -[3874.82 --> 3875.98] James has been calling -[3875.98 --> 3877.18] the readers -[3877.18 --> 3879.22] brothers and sisters. -[3879.86 --> 3880.60] And don't miss that. -[3880.66 --> 3882.02] Don't gloss over that. -[3882.02 --> 3883.96] It's just a way of talking about people. -[3883.96 --> 3886.08] You are a new family. -[3887.22 --> 3888.38] You belong to you -[3888.38 --> 3889.84] and you belong to her -[3889.84 --> 3892.02] and she belongs to him. -[3893.24 --> 3894.74] We belong to each other. -[3895.78 --> 3898.74] Regardless of what your biological family is, -[3898.86 --> 3900.22] regardless of what happened -[3900.22 --> 3901.36] in that story -[3901.36 --> 3902.74] and with them, -[3903.14 --> 3904.62] regardless of your past -[3904.62 --> 3906.22] and your last name, -[3906.58 --> 3909.44] you are part of the blood-bought family -[3909.44 --> 3910.40] of Jesus -[3910.40 --> 3911.54] if you believe -[3911.54 --> 3912.86] by grace through faith -[3912.86 --> 3915.00] and that matters more -[3915.00 --> 3919.06] than any other definition of family. -[3922.82 --> 3924.02] Look at verse 19. -[3924.16 --> 3924.66] James writes, -[3924.78 --> 3925.74] My brothers and sisters, -[3925.90 --> 3927.66] if one of you should wander from the truth, -[3927.88 --> 3930.66] someone should bring that person back. -[3931.42 --> 3932.98] Someone should bring them back. -[3933.26 --> 3933.46] Who? -[3933.62 --> 3934.86] Who brings them back? -[3935.68 --> 3937.12] If you wander away, -[3937.22 --> 3938.38] who brings you back? -[3938.38 --> 3940.42] Church. -[3941.42 --> 3942.38] We do. -[3943.56 --> 3944.24] I do. -[3944.68 --> 3945.20] He does. -[3945.36 --> 3946.32] And she does. -[3946.80 --> 3948.68] The church is one of the means -[3948.68 --> 3949.74] that God uses -[3949.74 --> 3951.78] to keep us faithful, -[3952.20 --> 3953.84] to protect our faith -[3953.84 --> 3955.98] and to ensure our security -[3955.98 --> 3958.18] in relationship to him. -[3959.18 --> 3961.34] Be part of a people. -[3964.58 --> 3967.78] Hearer and doer practices confession. -[3968.38 --> 3972.44] If they have sinned, -[3972.84 --> 3974.56] they will be forgiven. -[3976.36 --> 3977.84] So confess your sins -[3977.84 --> 3980.28] personally to God. -[3981.18 --> 3982.62] 1 John says that -[3982.62 --> 3984.28] if we claim to be without sin, -[3984.36 --> 3985.46] we deceive ourselves -[3985.46 --> 3987.62] and the truth is not in us. -[3987.62 --> 3989.44] If we confess our sins, -[3989.82 --> 3991.42] he is faithful and just -[3991.42 --> 3993.30] and will forgive our sins -[3993.30 --> 3994.52] and purify us -[3994.52 --> 3995.80] from all unrighteousness. -[3995.80 --> 3997.76] If we claim we have not sinned, -[3997.82 --> 3999.02] we make him out to be a liar -[3999.02 --> 4002.02] and his word is not in us. -[4002.42 --> 4004.88] Confess your sins to God. -[4006.18 --> 4007.18] But also, -[4007.54 --> 4008.98] look at verse 16. -[4009.88 --> 4011.06] Confess your sins -[4011.06 --> 4013.08] to each other. -[4014.26 --> 4016.32] But the kind of church community -[4016.32 --> 4017.34] that James says -[4017.34 --> 4018.94] we need to belong to -[4018.94 --> 4020.68] is one that can hear -[4020.68 --> 4021.84] and uphold -[4021.84 --> 4023.22] each other's confession. -[4023.22 --> 4023.30] confession. -[4024.68 --> 4026.50] Can you trust people -[4026.50 --> 4028.44] with your confession? -[4030.06 --> 4030.96] And if not, -[4031.04 --> 4031.54] why not? -[4032.50 --> 4032.82] And sure, -[4032.92 --> 4033.62] sometimes the answer -[4033.62 --> 4034.42] is other people. -[4036.54 --> 4037.84] But in my experience, -[4037.98 --> 4038.44] the answer -[4038.44 --> 4039.78] is equally, -[4040.00 --> 4041.06] if not more often, -[4041.68 --> 4042.84] about your own heart -[4042.84 --> 4045.74] and your own fears -[4045.74 --> 4047.78] and your own shame. -[4047.78 --> 4050.34] I love the way -[4050.34 --> 4051.66] that Dietrich Bonhoeffer -[4051.66 --> 4052.70] puts it in his little book, -[4052.80 --> 4053.32] Life Together. -[4054.08 --> 4055.20] I'm paraphrasing here, -[4055.60 --> 4056.20] but he says, -[4056.54 --> 4057.76] the brother who confesses -[4057.76 --> 4058.90] his sin to another one -[4058.90 --> 4060.40] is no longer alone -[4060.40 --> 4061.30] in his sin. -[4062.00 --> 4062.38] Instead, -[4062.64 --> 4063.46] he can experience -[4063.46 --> 4063.96] the victory -[4063.96 --> 4064.96] and the power of God -[4064.96 --> 4065.50] over sin -[4065.50 --> 4066.98] because of his brother. -[4068.58 --> 4069.80] When you confess your sin -[4069.80 --> 4071.70] to someone here in church, -[4071.78 --> 4072.92] when you confess -[4072.92 --> 4074.42] and open up your life -[4074.42 --> 4075.34] to a brother -[4075.34 --> 4077.16] or sister in Jesus Christ, -[4077.16 --> 4078.66] you are no longer alone -[4078.66 --> 4079.80] in whatever shame -[4079.80 --> 4080.98] or guilt voice -[4080.98 --> 4082.88] that is weighing you down. -[4084.38 --> 4084.82] Instead, -[4085.00 --> 4086.00] someone gets to speak -[4086.00 --> 4086.86] the voice of Jesus -[4086.86 --> 4088.30] into your heart. -[4090.14 --> 4090.86] Be a means -[4090.86 --> 4092.68] by which God's victory -[4092.68 --> 4093.34] over sin -[4093.34 --> 4094.16] is revealed -[4094.16 --> 4095.24] and communicated. -[4095.68 --> 4096.86] Listen to the confession -[4096.86 --> 4097.64] of another -[4097.64 --> 4098.80] and give them grace -[4098.80 --> 4099.84] and presence -[4099.84 --> 4100.68] and love. -[4101.04 --> 4102.08] Give them a commitment -[4102.08 --> 4103.82] to not let them be alone -[4103.82 --> 4105.06] in that sin. -[4105.90 --> 4106.02] Right? -[4106.14 --> 4107.10] Sin and Satan -[4107.10 --> 4108.20] seek to divide. -[4108.82 --> 4109.98] Grace and God -[4109.98 --> 4111.16] pull us together. -[4112.84 --> 4114.82] Practice confession. -[4116.56 --> 4117.60] And then finally, -[4117.74 --> 4119.06] a hearer and doer -[4119.06 --> 4120.98] practices discipleship. -[4121.26 --> 4122.26] This is the last one -[4122.26 --> 4123.38] for us this morning. -[4124.08 --> 4125.28] We've already read it once. -[4125.92 --> 4126.46] Verse 19. -[4126.58 --> 4127.58] My brothers and sisters, -[4127.74 --> 4128.46] if one of you -[4128.46 --> 4129.84] should wander from the truth, -[4130.00 --> 4130.94] someone should bring -[4130.94 --> 4132.98] that person back. -[4133.36 --> 4134.16] Remember this. -[4134.16 --> 4135.42] Whoever turns a sinner -[4135.42 --> 4136.12] from the error -[4136.12 --> 4136.86] of their way -[4136.86 --> 4138.38] will save them -[4138.38 --> 4138.98] from death -[4138.98 --> 4140.06] and cover over -[4140.06 --> 4140.72] a multitude -[4140.72 --> 4142.32] of sins. -[4143.90 --> 4145.80] It is our responsibility -[4145.80 --> 4146.72] as brothers -[4146.72 --> 4147.78] and sisters, -[4148.20 --> 4149.24] as disciples -[4149.24 --> 4149.94] of Jesus, -[4150.18 --> 4151.44] to be making -[4151.44 --> 4152.34] disciples, -[4152.62 --> 4153.74] to be calling -[4153.74 --> 4155.46] people to lives -[4155.46 --> 4156.68] of discipline -[4156.68 --> 4157.82] and devotion -[4157.82 --> 4158.48] and to be -[4158.48 --> 4159.72] walking together -[4159.72 --> 4161.12] in how we might -[4161.12 --> 4162.68] do that well. -[4165.16 --> 4166.08] Here at Emmanuel, -[4166.22 --> 4166.70] we have this -[4166.70 --> 4168.28] awesome mentorship -[4168.28 --> 4169.38] program that runs -[4169.38 --> 4170.92] through the youth -[4170.92 --> 4171.66] program. -[4172.46 --> 4173.10] And youth -[4173.10 --> 4174.72] become mentors -[4174.72 --> 4175.58] when they finish -[4175.58 --> 4176.68] and they do it -[4176.68 --> 4177.82] to the next generation. -[4178.22 --> 4179.48] That's discipleship, -[4179.92 --> 4180.20] friends. -[4181.16 --> 4182.08] That's what all -[4182.08 --> 4182.64] of our life -[4182.64 --> 4183.24] and ministry -[4183.24 --> 4184.40] should look like. -[4184.40 --> 4186.54] We should all -[4186.54 --> 4187.58] be being -[4187.58 --> 4188.30] discipled -[4188.30 --> 4189.98] and discipling -[4189.98 --> 4190.78] others. -[4192.38 --> 4193.40] This is what it -[4193.40 --> 4194.16] means to -[4194.16 --> 4195.46] belong. -[4197.32 --> 4198.32] Christian living -[4198.32 --> 4199.22] isn't a series -[4199.22 --> 4200.36] of checklists -[4200.36 --> 4201.60] to be managed. -[4201.76 --> 4202.16] Instead, -[4202.86 --> 4203.48] a hearer -[4203.48 --> 4204.00] and doer -[4204.00 --> 4205.14] faith made real -[4205.14 --> 4205.98] has a series -[4205.98 --> 4206.58] of checks -[4206.58 --> 4207.40] by which we -[4207.40 --> 4208.10] will manage -[4208.10 --> 4208.88] life -[4208.88 --> 4209.94] and faith -[4209.94 --> 4210.98] in Jesus. -[4210.98 --> 4213.06] And so, -[4214.10 --> 4214.38] pray. -[4216.58 --> 4217.68] Pray together -[4217.68 --> 4219.84] and praise -[4219.84 --> 4220.88] together. -[4221.72 --> 4222.62] Be part of a -[4222.62 --> 4223.78] people together. -[4224.34 --> 4224.74] Practice -[4224.74 --> 4225.44] confession -[4225.44 --> 4226.32] together -[4226.32 --> 4227.68] and practice -[4227.68 --> 4229.32] discipleship -[4229.32 --> 4230.48] together. -[4231.56 --> 4232.60] This is -[4232.60 --> 4233.36] who Jesus -[4233.36 --> 4234.30] has made -[4234.30 --> 4234.86] us -[4234.86 --> 4235.84] to be. -[4236.36 --> 4236.92] This is the -[4236.92 --> 4237.64] life that James -[4237.64 --> 4238.38] has been calling -[4238.38 --> 4239.64] us to live -[4239.64 --> 4240.42] as hearers -[4240.42 --> 4241.32] and doers -[4241.32 --> 4242.24] of the word. -[4242.64 --> 4243.56] And as we -[4243.56 --> 4244.08] go, -[4244.80 --> 4245.70] know that you -[4245.70 --> 4246.70] do not go -[4246.70 --> 4247.52] alone. -[4248.60 --> 4249.32] You go in the -[4249.32 --> 4250.88] power of God. -[4251.62 --> 4252.32] You go in the -[4252.32 --> 4253.54] power of the -[4253.54 --> 4253.86] gospel. -[4254.24 --> 4254.96] You go with -[4254.96 --> 4255.66] the power -[4255.66 --> 4256.62] of the spirit -[4256.62 --> 4257.72] and you go -[4257.72 --> 4258.90] in the power -[4258.90 --> 4259.70] of your -[4259.70 --> 4260.50] brothers and -[4260.50 --> 4261.00] sisters -[4261.00 --> 4262.34] beside you. -[4263.30 --> 4264.26] This is -[4264.26 --> 4265.10] who we are -[4265.10 --> 4265.76] and this -[4265.76 --> 4266.50] is what it -[4266.50 --> 4267.38] means to be -[4267.38 --> 4268.34] a hearer -[4268.34 --> 4269.56] and doer. -[4269.56 --> 4270.44] Amen? -[4271.78 --> 4272.86] Let's pray. -[4278.52 --> 4279.70] Lord Jesus, -[4279.90 --> 4281.10] help us to be -[4281.10 --> 4282.64] hearers and -[4282.64 --> 4283.68] doers. -[4284.22 --> 4285.44] Help us to -[4285.44 --> 4286.70] live in such -[4286.70 --> 4287.50] a way that -[4287.50 --> 4288.76] our lives -[4288.76 --> 4289.74] demand a -[4289.74 --> 4290.86] gospel explanation. -[4291.12 --> 4291.84] Help us, -[4292.38 --> 4292.82] Lord God, -[4293.82 --> 4295.70] pray and -[4295.70 --> 4296.86] praise to be -[4296.86 --> 4297.52] a part and -[4297.52 --> 4297.92] to practice -[4297.92 --> 4298.46] confession -[4298.46 --> 4299.34] and to -[4299.34 --> 4299.70] practice -[4299.70 --> 4300.50] discipleship. -[4301.58 --> 4302.82] Help us -[4302.82 --> 4304.48] take your -[4304.48 --> 4304.88] truth -[4304.88 --> 4306.18] that's planted -[4306.18 --> 4307.16] deep within -[4307.16 --> 4307.54] us -[4307.54 --> 4308.78] to grow it -[4308.78 --> 4309.64] and cultivate -[4309.64 --> 4310.20] it now -[4310.20 --> 4311.00] into a -[4311.00 --> 4311.40] life -[4311.40 --> 4312.20] live -[4312.20 --> 4313.10] for your -[4313.10 --> 4314.08] glory. -[4315.86 --> 4317.10] Fill us -[4317.10 --> 4318.40] with your -[4318.40 --> 4318.76] love -[4318.76 --> 4320.64] so that we -[4320.64 --> 4321.48] can be -[4321.48 --> 4322.48] people who -[4322.48 --> 4322.90] love. -[4322.90 --> 4322.94] love. -[4324.18 --> 4324.96] In Jesus' -[4325.14 --> 4325.46] name we -[4325.46 --> 4325.72] pray. -[4326.50 --> 4326.92] Amen. -[4328.06 --> 4328.62] Amen. -[4328.62 --> 4328.66] Amen. -[4335.06 --> 4337.52] Our time of -[4337.52 --> 4339.18] worship as you -[4339.18 --> 4340.84] respond, -[4342.08 --> 4342.52] singing in -[4342.52 --> 4342.96] your heart. -[4344.96 --> 4346.12] Join us. -[4346.12 --> 4351.58] praise the -[4351.58 --> 4353.02] Lord. -[4354.94 --> 4355.90] His mercy -[4355.90 --> 4356.60] is -[4356.60 --> 4358.06] more -[4358.06 --> 4361.94] stronger -[4361.94 --> 4362.64] than -[4362.64 --> 4363.34] darkness -[4363.34 --> 4364.46] to -[4364.46 --> 4364.96] every -[4364.96 --> 4365.78] born. -[4366.22 --> 4366.80] Our sins -[4366.80 --> 4367.76] say are -[4367.76 --> 4368.28] many. -[4368.64 --> 4369.46] His mercy -[4369.46 --> 4370.20] is -[4370.20 --> 4371.00] more. -[4371.00 --> 4372.00] Amen. -[4372.00 --> 4372.50] Amen. -[4372.50 --> 4373.00] Amen. -[4373.00 --> 4373.06] Amen. -[4373.06 --> 4374.06] Amen. -[4374.06 --> 4375.06] Amen. -[4375.06 --> 4375.60] God -[4375.60 --> 4375.92] can -[4375.92 --> 4377.06] remember -[4377.06 --> 4377.36] no -[4377.36 --> 4378.24] wrongs -[4378.24 --> 4378.46] we -[4378.46 --> 4378.92] have -[4378.92 --> 4379.36] done -[4379.36 --> 4380.32] wishes -[4380.32 --> 4381.28] and -[4381.28 --> 4381.92] knowing -[4381.92 --> 4382.56] he -[4382.56 --> 4383.06] taught -[4383.06 --> 4383.42] out -[4383.42 --> 4383.78] their -[4383.78 --> 4393.68] shop -[4393.68 --> 4402.18] grace -[4402.18 --> 4406.98] His mercy is all. -[4408.98 --> 4413.58] Stronger than darkness to every Lord, -[4414.00 --> 4418.68] our sweet tale, many, His mercy is all. -[4422.24 --> 4426.78] Our nations would wake us, we'd all send me home. -[4426.78 --> 4431.70] What color so tender is calling us home? -[4431.70 --> 4437.94] The who welcomes the weakest, the bolus of gold, -[4438.18 --> 4443.46] our sins may our planning, His mercy is all. -[4445.56 --> 4454.36] Praise the Lord, His mercy is all. -[4456.54 --> 4460.94] Stronger than darkness to every Lord, -[4460.94 --> 4465.90] but since they are many, His mercy is all. -[4469.42 --> 4474.44] What riches of kindness He lavished on us, -[4474.70 --> 4479.50] His blood was a payment, His life was a cost, -[4479.50 --> 4485.66] He stood in the dead we could never afford. -[4485.66 --> 4490.62] His mercy is all. -[4490.62 --> 4492.12] Praise the Lord, His mercy is all. -[4492.14 --> 4501.90] Praise the Lord, His mercy is all. -[4501.90 --> 4508.46] Stronger than darkness to every Lord, -[4508.46 --> 4513.42] our sins may our planning, His mercy is all. -[4513.42 --> 4519.92] Praise the Lord, His mercy is all. -[4519.92 --> 4527.54] Longer than darkness to every Lord, -[4527.54 --> 4532.52] our sins may our planning, His mercy is all. -[4532.52 --> 4537.60] Our sins may our planning, His mercy is all. -[4537.60 --> 4542.56] Lord, our sins may our planning, His mercy is all. -[4542.56 --> 4542.74] I'm glad to be seated. -[4542.74 --> 4543.14] Amen. -[4543.14 --> 4544.90] I'm glad to be seated. -[4544.90 --> 4558.70] We have the opportunity this morning -[4558.70 --> 4564.36] to celebrate God's gift of faithful leadership for His people. -[4565.24 --> 4567.48] And to do that in our installation this morning, -[4567.54 --> 4570.56] we have a bit of a liturgy that will help us see -[4570.56 --> 4574.36] the office of elder and deacon and what it does for us. -[4574.46 --> 4577.40] And we will pray for God's provision -[4577.40 --> 4579.12] for those people who will serve. -[4579.78 --> 4581.62] And we will promise as church, -[4581.84 --> 4584.92] both those here present, those participating digitally, -[4585.14 --> 4588.06] and as representative of the whole body, -[4588.16 --> 4589.58] because we belong to each other, -[4590.44 --> 4593.44] our support and encouragement for those people. -[4594.14 --> 4597.98] We joyfully thank God for elders and deacons -[4597.98 --> 4600.28] who have served well and who have completed -[4600.28 --> 4602.38] their term of service. -[4602.38 --> 4607.88] And we praise Him for providing us with their successors. -[4609.06 --> 4610.60] In the office bearers of the church, -[4610.72 --> 4613.96] we see the love of Jesus for His people. -[4614.70 --> 4617.40] And the Lord of the church, as the Lord of the church, -[4617.56 --> 4620.62] He appoints leaders to govern in His name -[4620.62 --> 4624.12] and to promote the spiritual well-being of His people. -[4624.98 --> 4627.58] By His Spirit, He equips these leaders -[4627.58 --> 4630.62] so that believers may grow in faith, -[4630.84 --> 4633.36] develop disciplined Christian living, -[4633.68 --> 4635.66] serve others in selfless love, -[4635.72 --> 4638.82] and share with all the good news of salvation. -[4639.96 --> 4642.98] To this end, Jesus calls you to serve -[4642.98 --> 4646.90] and commands humility in your work in the church. -[4648.50 --> 4650.90] Elders serve by exercising oversight -[4650.90 --> 4654.56] oversight of the church in Christ's name. -[4655.36 --> 4657.94] The Apostle Paul told the elders at Ephesus, -[4658.44 --> 4660.78] keep watch over yourselves and all the flock -[4660.78 --> 4663.40] of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. -[4664.00 --> 4666.96] Be shepherds of the church of God, -[4667.04 --> 4669.56] which He bought with His own blood. -[4671.02 --> 4674.24] Elders must provide for the true preaching of the word, -[4674.68 --> 4679.16] instruction in faith formation for both youth and adults, -[4679.16 --> 4681.40] regular celebration of the sacraments, -[4681.82 --> 4683.76] and faithful counsel and discipline -[4683.76 --> 4687.42] while keeping in confidence those matters entrusted to them. -[4688.10 --> 4691.54] They must promote fellowship and hospitality among believers, -[4691.98 --> 4693.62] ensure good order in the church, -[4693.76 --> 4696.24] and stimulate witness to all people. -[4697.84 --> 4701.40] Deacons serve by leading and equipping the church -[4701.40 --> 4703.72] to minister to its members and the world -[4703.72 --> 4707.34] in a rich diversity of ministries, -[4707.66 --> 4708.92] awakening compassion, -[4709.46 --> 4710.50] demonstrating mercy, -[4710.74 --> 4711.70] seeking justice, -[4711.98 --> 4713.96] and collaborating with God's Spirit -[4713.96 --> 4717.62] for the transformations of persons and communities. -[4718.38 --> 4721.16] In imitation of Christ's mercy, -[4721.60 --> 4723.60] deacons teach us to love God -[4723.60 --> 4724.96] and our neighbors -[4724.96 --> 4726.10] and the creation -[4726.10 --> 4728.54] with acts of generous sharing, -[4729.02 --> 4730.04] joyful hospitality, -[4730.04 --> 4731.12] thoughtful care, -[4731.54 --> 4732.56] and wise stewardship -[4732.56 --> 4734.78] of all God's good gifts. -[4736.18 --> 4738.66] Deacons offer holistic responses -[4738.66 --> 4741.42] that respect the dignity of all people, -[4741.56 --> 4742.60] working to change -[4742.60 --> 4745.02] exploitative structures and systems, -[4745.44 --> 4746.52] equipping the church -[4746.52 --> 4748.30] for ministries of reconciliation -[4748.30 --> 4749.74] and peacemaking, -[4750.08 --> 4752.44] and seeking opportunities for advocacy. -[4753.40 --> 4756.12] To help them accomplish these tasks, -[4756.58 --> 4757.82] deacons are to identify -[4757.82 --> 4760.46] and develop gifts both in the church -[4760.46 --> 4761.76] and in the community. -[4762.76 --> 4764.32] And by adding to all this -[4764.32 --> 4766.52] words of encouragement and hope, -[4766.92 --> 4769.58] deacons demonstrate in word and in deed -[4769.58 --> 4771.88] the care of the Lord Jesus himself. -[4773.70 --> 4776.30] The tasks of elders and deacons -[4776.30 --> 4777.38] call for believers -[4777.38 --> 4778.74] who are Christ-like, -[4778.88 --> 4780.40] who are mature in faith, -[4780.48 --> 4782.12] and who exercise their offices -[4782.12 --> 4785.24] with prayer, patience, and humility. -[4785.24 --> 4789.30] Today, we are blessed -[4789.30 --> 4792.02] and intend to ordain elders and deacons -[4792.02 --> 4793.20] and to install them -[4793.20 --> 4794.54] for terms of service -[4794.54 --> 4796.00] in this congregation. -[4797.76 --> 4799.06] As I call your name, -[4799.48 --> 4801.38] I invite you to come to the front -[4801.38 --> 4802.22] and find a place -[4802.22 --> 4804.94] along the edge of the stage here. -[4806.20 --> 4808.48] To the office of admin elder, -[4809.48 --> 4810.70] we call Pim Shone. -[4810.70 --> 4816.72] To the office of pastoral elder, -[4817.28 --> 4818.38] we call Dave Harris, -[4819.02 --> 4819.82] Ken Hogawoning, -[4820.44 --> 4821.36] Eric Hubertz, -[4821.78 --> 4822.42] and Daryl Wind. -[4826.62 --> 4828.94] And to the office of deacon, -[4829.20 --> 4831.48] we call Clem Molenkamp, -[4832.20 --> 4832.88] Mike Rorsma, -[4833.58 --> 4834.70] and Lena Chepkema. -[4834.70 --> 4841.14] There's big groups, -[4841.18 --> 4841.58] so make room. -[4843.02 --> 4843.68] Take a stage, -[4843.86 --> 4844.16] stagger, -[4844.90 --> 4845.44] find room. -[4845.44 --> 4845.50] Find room. -[4856.30 --> 4861.20] Does this work if I have my mask on? -[4862.00 --> 4862.32] Good? -[4862.58 --> 4862.74] Okay. -[4862.74 --> 4866.04] To express your acceptance -[4866.04 --> 4867.60] of these offices, -[4867.84 --> 4869.06] you are asked to stand -[4869.06 --> 4870.86] and hear in the presence of God -[4870.86 --> 4871.58] and his church -[4871.58 --> 4873.54] to answer the following questions. -[4873.88 --> 4875.26] I will ask all the questions -[4875.26 --> 4877.68] and then I will ask you each by name -[4877.68 --> 4878.86] for your response. -[4879.62 --> 4880.92] I invite you to respond by saying, -[4881.04 --> 4881.40] I do, -[4882.02 --> 4882.72] God helping me. -[4885.22 --> 4885.58] And so, -[4885.68 --> 4887.94] do you believe that in the call -[4887.94 --> 4889.08] of this congregation, -[4889.74 --> 4891.78] God himself is calling you -[4891.78 --> 4894.00] to these holy offices? -[4895.20 --> 4896.74] Do you believe that the Old -[4896.74 --> 4897.60] and New Testaments -[4897.60 --> 4898.72] are the word of God, -[4898.80 --> 4900.66] the only infallible rule -[4900.66 --> 4902.28] for faith and life? -[4903.34 --> 4904.44] And do you subscribe -[4904.44 --> 4905.66] to the doctrinal standards -[4905.66 --> 4906.44] of this church, -[4906.76 --> 4907.82] rejecting all teaching -[4907.82 --> 4909.16] which contradicts them? -[4909.16 --> 4910.94] And finally, -[4911.00 --> 4911.84] do you promise -[4911.84 --> 4912.70] to do the work -[4912.70 --> 4914.18] of your offices faithfully -[4914.18 --> 4915.52] in a way worthy -[4915.52 --> 4916.48] of your calling -[4916.48 --> 4917.36] and in submission -[4917.36 --> 4918.38] to the government -[4918.38 --> 4919.20] and discipline -[4919.20 --> 4921.30] of this church? -[4922.26 --> 4922.52] Tim, -[4922.78 --> 4923.70] what is your answer? -[4927.70 --> 4928.30] Dave, -[4928.48 --> 4929.34] what is your answer? -[4931.84 --> 4932.32] Ken, -[4932.50 --> 4933.32] what is your answer? -[4935.48 --> 4935.88] Daryl, -[4936.00 --> 4936.70] what is your answer? -[4936.70 --> 4939.58] Eric, -[4939.78 --> 4940.56] what is your answer? -[4943.76 --> 4944.16] Clem, -[4944.34 --> 4945.16] what is your answer? -[4948.32 --> 4948.72] Mike, -[4948.94 --> 4949.70] what is your answer? -[4951.78 --> 4952.36] And Lena, -[4952.50 --> 4953.22] what is your answer? -[4955.20 --> 4955.58] Amen. -[4956.30 --> 4956.66] I do, -[4956.78 --> 4957.82] God helping me all around -[4957.82 --> 4958.70] if you couldn't hear it -[4958.70 --> 4959.38] on the live stream. -[4963.42 --> 4963.82] Ordinarily, -[4964.00 --> 4964.84] in our services, -[4964.84 --> 4965.76] at this point, -[4965.86 --> 4968.40] we would commission them -[4968.40 --> 4969.50] with the laying on of hands. -[4970.30 --> 4971.68] And since we are -[4971.68 --> 4972.86] in these COVID times, -[4972.96 --> 4973.62] that can't be done -[4973.62 --> 4974.54] in the ordinary way. -[4974.66 --> 4975.48] We are going to do that -[4975.48 --> 4977.08] in an extraordinary way -[4977.08 --> 4978.50] by having all of you, -[4978.70 --> 4980.26] if you are so comfortable, -[4980.48 --> 4981.70] hold out your hands -[4981.70 --> 4983.54] and to be representative -[4983.54 --> 4984.70] of the whole church body -[4984.70 --> 4985.84] which is gathering digitally -[4985.84 --> 4987.60] or in the next service -[4987.60 --> 4989.14] and is here represented -[4989.14 --> 4990.54] by these folks. -[4990.66 --> 4991.54] Hold out your hand -[4991.54 --> 4992.28] that you might be -[4992.28 --> 4993.38] the vehicle of the Spirit's -[4993.38 --> 4993.76] calling, -[4994.38 --> 4994.96] commissioning, -[4995.10 --> 4995.74] and equipping -[4995.74 --> 4996.84] as we serve. -[4997.44 --> 4998.06] Please allow me -[4998.06 --> 4998.64] to lead you -[4998.64 --> 4999.42] in prayer. -[4999.42 --> 5008.08] God, -[5008.16 --> 5009.00] our Heavenly Father, -[5009.70 --> 5010.80] who has called you -[5010.80 --> 5012.16] to these sacred offices, -[5012.66 --> 5014.12] guide you by His Word, -[5014.54 --> 5016.14] equip you with His Spirit, -[5016.48 --> 5018.46] and so prosper your ministries -[5018.46 --> 5020.68] that His church may increase -[5020.68 --> 5023.84] and His name may be praised. -[5024.58 --> 5026.24] In Jesus Christ we pray. -[5027.24 --> 5027.54] Amen. -[5029.42 --> 5031.88] You may be seated. -[5032.02 --> 5032.56] Thank you, guys. -[5032.56 --> 5032.62] Thank you. -[5045.62 --> 5046.74] As you are seated, -[5046.94 --> 5048.50] I'm going to address -[5048.50 --> 5049.52] each of you -[5049.52 --> 5052.16] from the stage -[5052.16 --> 5053.10] and for the elders -[5053.10 --> 5056.12] who are continuing in service -[5056.12 --> 5057.46] and the deacons -[5057.46 --> 5058.66] who are continuing in service, -[5058.66 --> 5061.58] this charge also applies to you. -[5062.98 --> 5064.46] So I charge you, -[5064.86 --> 5065.16] elders, -[5065.82 --> 5067.56] as shepherds of the flock, -[5068.04 --> 5069.12] to hold firmly -[5069.12 --> 5070.60] to the trustworthy message -[5070.60 --> 5071.86] as it has been taught -[5071.86 --> 5074.30] so that you can encourage others -[5074.30 --> 5075.52] by sound doctrine -[5075.52 --> 5077.12] and refute those -[5077.12 --> 5077.88] who oppose it. -[5079.18 --> 5080.12] Be a friend -[5080.12 --> 5081.96] and a Christ-like example -[5081.96 --> 5082.56] to children. -[5083.60 --> 5084.20] Give clear -[5084.20 --> 5085.42] and cheerful guidance -[5085.42 --> 5086.22] to young people. -[5086.22 --> 5087.98] By word -[5087.98 --> 5088.90] and by example, -[5088.90 --> 5090.56] bear up God's people -[5090.56 --> 5091.16] in pain -[5091.16 --> 5091.96] and weakness -[5091.96 --> 5092.84] and celebrate -[5092.84 --> 5094.00] joys with them. -[5095.28 --> 5096.32] Hold in trust -[5096.32 --> 5097.68] all sensitive matters -[5097.68 --> 5098.98] confided to you. -[5100.20 --> 5101.54] Encourage the aged -[5101.54 --> 5102.62] to persevere -[5102.62 --> 5103.64] in God's promises -[5103.64 --> 5105.78] and be wise counselors -[5105.78 --> 5106.60] who support -[5106.60 --> 5107.70] and strengthen -[5107.70 --> 5108.56] the pastors. -[5109.52 --> 5110.50] Be compassionate -[5110.50 --> 5111.78] yet firm -[5111.78 --> 5112.86] and consistent -[5112.86 --> 5113.92] in rebuke -[5113.92 --> 5114.90] and discipline. -[5116.40 --> 5117.26] Know the scriptures -[5117.26 --> 5118.60] which are useful -[5118.60 --> 5119.22] for teaching, -[5119.40 --> 5119.78] rebuking, -[5119.94 --> 5120.26] correcting, -[5120.42 --> 5120.88] and training -[5120.88 --> 5121.96] in righteousness. -[5122.64 --> 5123.60] Pray continually -[5123.60 --> 5124.76] for the church. -[5124.96 --> 5126.16] Remember at all times -[5126.16 --> 5126.96] that if you would -[5126.96 --> 5127.68] truly give -[5127.68 --> 5128.56] spiritual leadership -[5128.56 --> 5129.24] in the household -[5129.24 --> 5129.70] of faith, -[5129.84 --> 5130.64] you must be -[5130.64 --> 5131.90] completely mastered -[5131.90 --> 5133.24] by your Lord. -[5133.24 --> 5133.28] Lord, -[5133.80 --> 5137.06] I charge you deacons -[5137.06 --> 5138.92] to inspire -[5138.92 --> 5140.10] faithful ministries -[5140.10 --> 5140.76] of service -[5140.76 --> 5141.40] to one another, -[5142.06 --> 5143.48] to the larger community -[5143.48 --> 5144.94] and to the world. -[5146.00 --> 5146.94] Remind us -[5146.94 --> 5147.62] that the Lord -[5147.62 --> 5148.42] requires us -[5148.42 --> 5149.54] to act justly, -[5149.64 --> 5150.78] to love mercy, -[5150.92 --> 5151.96] and to walk humbly -[5151.96 --> 5153.12] with our God. -[5154.00 --> 5154.78] Teach us -[5154.78 --> 5155.52] to be merciful -[5155.52 --> 5156.38] and to seize -[5156.38 --> 5157.24] new opportunities -[5157.24 --> 5158.62] to worship God -[5158.62 --> 5159.66] with offerings -[5159.66 --> 5160.28] of wealth -[5160.28 --> 5161.02] and time -[5161.02 --> 5161.66] and ability. -[5161.66 --> 5163.78] realize that -[5163.78 --> 5164.46] benevolence -[5164.46 --> 5165.28] is a quality -[5165.28 --> 5166.04] of our life -[5166.04 --> 5166.54] in Christ -[5166.54 --> 5167.46] and not merely -[5167.46 --> 5168.00] a matter -[5168.00 --> 5169.30] of financial assistance. -[5170.56 --> 5170.86] Therefore, -[5171.14 --> 5172.04] minister to the rich -[5172.04 --> 5173.64] and poor alike, -[5173.78 --> 5174.34] both within -[5174.34 --> 5175.12] and outside -[5175.12 --> 5176.26] of this church. -[5177.78 --> 5179.06] Weigh our opportunities -[5179.06 --> 5179.82] for giving -[5179.82 --> 5180.54] and service -[5180.54 --> 5182.00] and use the church's -[5182.00 --> 5183.46] resources discerningly. -[5184.50 --> 5185.26] Be compassionate -[5185.26 --> 5186.46] to those in need -[5186.46 --> 5187.08] and treat them -[5187.08 --> 5187.60] with dignity -[5187.60 --> 5188.42] and respect. -[5188.86 --> 5189.66] Hold and trust -[5189.66 --> 5190.82] all sensitive matters -[5190.82 --> 5191.86] confided to you -[5191.86 --> 5192.84] and encourage -[5192.84 --> 5193.58] with words -[5193.58 --> 5194.52] that create hope -[5194.52 --> 5195.14] in hearts -[5195.14 --> 5196.14] and with deeds -[5196.14 --> 5197.08] that bring joy -[5197.08 --> 5197.94] into lives. -[5198.96 --> 5200.42] Be prophetic critics -[5200.42 --> 5201.50] of the waste, -[5201.92 --> 5202.44] injustice, -[5202.74 --> 5203.64] and selfishness -[5203.64 --> 5204.84] in our society -[5204.84 --> 5205.98] and be sensitive -[5205.98 --> 5206.56] counselors -[5206.56 --> 5207.42] to the victims -[5207.42 --> 5208.34] of such evils. -[5209.30 --> 5210.64] Let your lives, -[5210.84 --> 5210.98] too, -[5211.10 --> 5212.56] be above reproach. -[5213.24 --> 5214.06] Live as examples -[5214.06 --> 5215.08] of Jesus Christ. -[5215.52 --> 5216.46] Look to the interests -[5216.46 --> 5217.00] of others -[5217.00 --> 5217.98] and in all -[5217.98 --> 5218.82] your ministries. -[5218.98 --> 5219.54] Help us -[5219.54 --> 5220.36] to participate -[5220.36 --> 5221.88] in all things, -[5222.04 --> 5223.66] even as we anticipate -[5223.66 --> 5224.54] its completion -[5224.54 --> 5225.86] when God's kingdom -[5225.86 --> 5227.16] comes in fullness. -[5229.04 --> 5230.42] And to the congregation, -[5231.42 --> 5233.10] I charge you, -[5233.86 --> 5234.76] people of God, -[5235.10 --> 5236.98] to receive these office bearers -[5236.98 --> 5238.84] as Christ's gift -[5238.84 --> 5239.80] to the church. -[5241.04 --> 5242.30] Recognize in them -[5242.30 --> 5243.32] the Lord's provision -[5243.32 --> 5244.08] for healthy, -[5244.24 --> 5245.70] congregational life. -[5245.70 --> 5247.30] hold them in honor. -[5247.50 --> 5248.48] Take their counsel -[5248.48 --> 5249.52] seriously. -[5249.98 --> 5250.80] Respond to them -[5250.80 --> 5251.46] in obedience -[5251.46 --> 5252.58] and with respect. -[5253.60 --> 5254.66] Accept their help -[5254.66 --> 5255.58] with thanks. -[5257.02 --> 5258.28] Wholeheartedly participate -[5258.28 --> 5259.16] in the ministries -[5259.16 --> 5260.50] into which they lead. -[5261.66 --> 5262.94] Sustain them in prayer -[5262.94 --> 5264.28] and encourage them -[5264.28 --> 5265.14] with your support, -[5265.28 --> 5267.08] especially as they feel -[5267.08 --> 5267.56] the burden -[5267.56 --> 5268.80] of their office. -[5269.44 --> 5270.28] Acknowledge them -[5270.28 --> 5271.78] as the Lord's servant -[5271.78 --> 5273.02] among you. -[5274.34 --> 5275.26] And for the congregation, -[5275.26 --> 5276.10] whether you are here -[5276.10 --> 5276.84] or at home, -[5277.20 --> 5278.00] I have a question -[5278.00 --> 5278.58] for you -[5278.58 --> 5279.22] as you pledge -[5279.22 --> 5282.02] to support them -[5282.02 --> 5282.96] in this work. -[5283.02 --> 5283.52] And so I will ask -[5283.52 --> 5283.92] the question -[5283.92 --> 5284.58] and invite you -[5284.58 --> 5285.20] to respond, -[5285.34 --> 5285.96] everyone here -[5285.96 --> 5286.70] and at home, -[5286.82 --> 5287.02] with, -[5287.14 --> 5287.50] we do, -[5288.10 --> 5288.92] God helping us. -[5290.12 --> 5290.98] Do you, -[5291.66 --> 5292.24] congregation, -[5292.80 --> 5294.14] pledge to receive -[5294.14 --> 5295.68] these people -[5295.68 --> 5299.12] as you have been charged -[5299.12 --> 5300.90] and they have been called? -[5300.90 --> 5302.32] what is your answer? -[5303.32 --> 5304.06] We do, -[5304.62 --> 5305.40] God helping us. -[5307.22 --> 5308.56] Let's join our hearts -[5308.56 --> 5309.90] in prayer together. -[5317.90 --> 5319.20] Merciful Heavenly Father, -[5319.84 --> 5321.14] we thank you -[5321.14 --> 5322.52] that you have provided -[5322.52 --> 5324.22] faithful and gifted people -[5324.22 --> 5325.76] to serve as elders -[5325.76 --> 5326.66] and deacons here -[5326.66 --> 5327.18] at Emmanuel. -[5327.18 --> 5329.90] As these new office bearers -[5329.90 --> 5331.12] assume their responsibilities, -[5331.40 --> 5332.80] fill them with your spirit, -[5333.24 --> 5334.70] endow them with your wisdom -[5334.70 --> 5336.58] and grant them strength. -[5337.54 --> 5339.10] Make them faithful workers -[5339.10 --> 5339.96] in your vineyard. -[5340.38 --> 5341.34] Under their guidance, -[5341.46 --> 5342.36] may your church grow -[5342.36 --> 5344.46] in every spiritual grace, -[5344.88 --> 5346.30] in faith which is open -[5346.30 --> 5347.02] and unashamed -[5347.02 --> 5348.22] and in the committed service -[5348.22 --> 5349.56] that promotes your reign -[5349.56 --> 5350.36] in the world. -[5351.40 --> 5352.52] Help them to perform -[5352.52 --> 5353.16] their duties -[5353.16 --> 5353.98] with enthusiasm -[5353.98 --> 5355.24] and humility. -[5356.80 --> 5357.80] In their work, -[5357.96 --> 5360.22] grant them a sustained awe -[5360.22 --> 5360.92] that is rooted -[5360.92 --> 5362.26] in daily adoration -[5362.26 --> 5362.90] of you, -[5363.20 --> 5363.62] their Lord. -[5364.94 --> 5365.44] Through them, -[5365.56 --> 5366.58] may your name be honored -[5366.58 --> 5368.24] and your church be served. -[5369.50 --> 5370.20] Help us, -[5370.50 --> 5371.02] your people, -[5371.24 --> 5372.72] to accept them gladly, -[5373.00 --> 5374.26] encourage them always, -[5374.44 --> 5375.98] and respect them -[5375.98 --> 5376.74] for the sake -[5376.74 --> 5378.04] of your precious Son, -[5378.50 --> 5379.14] our Lord, -[5379.14 --> 5381.24] in whose name we pray. -[5382.46 --> 5382.78] Amen. -[5383.98 --> 5387.52] I'm going to invite you -[5387.52 --> 5387.96] to stand -[5387.96 --> 5389.12] as you receive -[5389.12 --> 5390.04] the blessing of God -[5390.04 --> 5391.84] after which we will sing -[5391.84 --> 5392.98] our closing song. -[5400.18 --> 5401.22] Go this week -[5401.22 --> 5403.96] as disciples of Jesus, -[5404.16 --> 5405.56] hearers and doers -[5405.56 --> 5406.60] of the word. -[5406.86 --> 5408.34] Go with God. -[5409.34 --> 5410.66] May God go before you -[5410.66 --> 5411.74] to lead you. -[5411.74 --> 5413.86] May God go behind you -[5413.86 --> 5414.84] to guard you. -[5415.48 --> 5416.72] May God go beneath you -[5416.72 --> 5417.68] to support you. -[5417.80 --> 5419.36] And may God go beside you -[5419.36 --> 5420.48] to befriend you. -[5420.78 --> 5422.82] Do not be afraid. -[5423.82 --> 5425.00] Let the blessing of God -[5425.00 --> 5425.98] come upon you today. -[5426.32 --> 5428.18] Do not be afraid, -[5428.90 --> 5431.04] but go in peace, -[5431.64 --> 5432.10] to love, -[5432.58 --> 5433.98] and serve the Lord. -[5433.98 --> 5435.64] Amen. -[5435.64 --> 5435.82] Amen. -[5435.82 --> 5447.72] and zor travaille to the day -[5447.72 --> 5450.12] and watch appreciate, -[5452.32 --> 5453.30] don't notice. -[5453.30 --> 5483.28] Thank you. -[5483.30 --> 5513.28] Thank you. -[5513.30 --> 5515.30] Thank you. -[5543.30 --> 5545.30] Thank you. -[5573.30 --> 5575.30] Thank you. -[5575.30 --> 5577.30] Thank you. -[5577.30 --> 5579.30] Thank you. -[5579.30 --> 5581.30] Thank you. -[5581.30 --> 5583.30] Thank you. -[5583.30 --> 5597.68] Forever you are faithful, forever you are strong, forever you are with us, forever, forever. -[5613.30 --> 5643.28] We worship the God who is our God. -[5643.30 --> 5646.56] We worship the God who is. -[5646.72 --> 5650.88] We worship the God who evermore will be. -[5651.92 --> 5654.76] He opened the prison doors. -[5655.28 --> 5657.54] He parted the raging sea. -[5658.18 --> 5661.66] My God, He holds the victory. -[5664.14 --> 5666.88] Let's join the house of the Lord. -[5667.18 --> 5669.70] Let's join the house of the Lord today. -[5669.70 --> 5672.30] And we won't be quiet. -[5673.00 --> 5675.36] We shout out your praise. -[5675.62 --> 5678.04] Let's join the house of the Lord. -[5678.46 --> 5681.60] Our God is shining in this place. -[5681.82 --> 5683.46] And we won't be quiet. -[5683.46 --> 5686.76] We shout out your praise. -[5686.76 --> 5692.68] Oh, we shout out praise -[5692.68 --> 5699.56] We sing to the God who heals -[5699.56 --> 5702.38] We sing to the God who saves -[5702.38 --> 5706.74] We sing to the God who always makes a way -[5706.74 --> 5710.72] Cause He hung up on that cross -[5710.72 --> 5713.54] Then He rose up from that grave -[5713.54 --> 5718.70] My God's still rolling stones away -[5718.70 --> 5722.72] There's joy in the house of the Lord -[5722.72 --> 5725.74] There's joy in the house of the Lord today -[5725.74 --> 5728.08] And we won't be quiet -[5728.08 --> 5731.18] We shout out your praise -[5731.18 --> 5733.90] There's joy in the house of the Lord -[5733.90 --> 5737.44] Our God is surely in this place -[5737.44 --> 5739.30] And we won't be quiet -[5739.30 --> 5742.68] We shout out your praise -[5742.68 --> 5749.26] We were the beggars -[5749.26 --> 5751.70] Now we're royalty -[5751.70 --> 5754.26] We were the presents -[5754.26 --> 5757.64] Now we're running free -[5757.64 --> 5763.42] We are forgiven, accepted, redeemed by His grace -[5763.42 --> 5767.90] Let the house of the Lord sing praise -[5767.90 --> 5771.28] Cause we were the beggars -[5771.28 --> 5774.48] Now we're royalty -[5774.48 --> 5776.64] We were the prisoners -[5776.64 --> 5780.16] Now we're running free -[5780.16 --> 5781.92] We are forgiven -[5781.92 --> 5796.94] We areよし -[5799.06 --> 5799.54] Now we're regarde -[5799.54 --> 5801.20] We're Gibson -[5801.50 --> 5802.50] close -[5802.50 --> 5802.94] We are Dracula -[5802.94 --> 5804.50] We are dragon -[5804.50 --> 5806.52] 특히 on my throne -[5806.58 --> 5806.86] We are 친구 -[5806.86 --> 5808.12] scares me -[5808.12 --> 5808.32] We are -[5808.32 --> 5809.08] We call -[5809.08 --> 5809.44] Gorilla -[5809.44 --> 5810.12] We are -[5810.12 --> 5810.54] usually diff --git a/Sunday Worship - March 12, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - March 12, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c93dc248afcd1d3649841d3ed2ff74d967a7298e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - March 12, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,243 +0,0 @@ -• Timestamp markers indicate a long conversation. -• No significant topics or content are mentioned in the provided transcript. -• Introduction to the worship service by Pastor Chris -• Special announcements: - • Commissioning of the Mexico mission team - • Classis gathering - • Bible study for young adults at Josh's house - • Christianity Explored class on Wednesday - • 2020 youth event tonight -• Opening prayer and hymn: "Come all you people" -• Prayer led by Pastor Chris -• The speaker prays for God to mold them in His image through the power of the Holy Spirit. -• Creation and eternity are mentioned as part of God's nature. -• Christ is described as carrying the cross for humanity's shame, with sin weighed upon his shoulders. -• The speaker offers their heart completely to God. -• A description of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, including his death on the cross and resurrection. -• Confession of sin before God and one another. -• Thanksgiving and praise for Christ as Emmanuel, the rescue for sinners and Lord of all. -• Reflections on the love of Christ, including his sacrifice, redemption, and salvation. -• A team of 10 church members is traveling to Mexico -• The team will work with Mission Juiceroum Christiane, a local church community -• Focus on kids ministry, where children evangelize to adults and drive growth -• Also focus on youth program, modeled after the church's own successful youth program -• Visits to men's rehab center, women's Bible study, and other side projects -• Commissioning of the team will take place with Pastor Chris and others -• Christ's promise to his disciples that they would never be alone and that he would send his spirit to be with them -• The importance of partnering in spreading God's good news and the privilege of doing so -• A Mexico team being sent on a mission to Tijuana, Rosarito, and surrounding areas -• The church is sent to make disciples of all nations and feed the hungry -• Mission central to the church's being due to announcing the one name that saves -• Prayer over the team and laying hands on them for support and encouragement -• A community of faith and family behind the team as they go in the power of the Spirit -• Prayers for a team traveling to Mexico -• Blessing and protection for the team members and their families -• Request for God's presence and nearness in the days leading up to the trip -• Prayer for conversations, meetings, and ministry connections in Mexico -• Specific prayers for individuals on the team and their family members -• Prayer for anxiety and travel-related concerns -• Blessing of the team by invoking God's name in Jesus Christ -• Ministry administration and church operations -• M2W2 prison mentorship program and its benefits for those in prison -• Post-prison support, including the NOLA program and its services -• Bible reading and prayer, specifically from Luke 4:18 and references to Jesus' ministry -• Upcoming offerings, including one for the Budget and Langley Emanuel Refugee Sponsorship Fund -• Expressing gratitude for living in a great country, province, and city -• Thanking God for the church and community at Emanuel -• Praising the Mexico team heading to Mexico and asking for their safe trip -• Praying for those who have lost loved ones and are still mourning their death -• Asking for prayers for individuals struggling with pain or discomfort, as well as Sai Visser's treatment for lung cancer -• Praying for peace in various parts of the world, including Ukraine, Russia, Turkey, and Syria -• Offering comfort from Psalm 121 and expressing gratitude for God's watchful care -• Discussion of a burpee competition in children's worship time -• Talking about feelings and sadness, including examples of what can make someone sad -• Sharing personal ways to cope with sadness, such as cuddling with a stuffed animal or pet -• Discussion of how God can take care of people when they're feeling sad -• Series through the book of Romans -• Reading from Romans 5:1-11 -• Paul's explanation of justification by faith and its benefits -• The relationship between suffering, perseverance, character, and hope -• God's love demonstrated in Christ's death for sinners -• Discussion of salvation through God's wrath and the death of Jesus' son -• Reconciliation with God through Jesus Christ -• Opportunity to discuss deep doctrine ideas about God and His actions in the world -• Warning against staying "heady" and intellectual when discussing theology, instead emphasizing the importance of doxology (praising God) -• Connection between good theology and doxology -• The speaker is discussing Romans chapter 11 -• Paul's theology in the first 11 chapters of Romans is dense and complex -• He has been discussing God's sovereign election and predestination -• The people of Israel are a focal point of his discussion -• Chapter 11 concludes with praise for God's wisdom, knowledge, and judgments, which are unsearchable -• The speaker hopes that good theology will lead to doxology (praise) -• The importance of looking at the doctrine of justification -• Getting to a place where we understand and appreciate God's character -• Praising God with boldness and appreciation for what He has done -• Exploring biblical text, including Paul's writings on conclusions and implications -• Reviewing past lessons or studies and drawing final thoughts and insights -• Justification comes from faith and God's declaration of righteousness -• Faith is a gift, not something earned or acquired by humans -• Righteousness is not based on human actions but on God's declaration -• Justification comes through faith, which is made possible by God's grace -• Faith, justification, and righteousness are all related concepts -• Justification by faith through grace -• Peace with God and hope in His glory for believers -• Starting a journey to live under justification this morning -• Exploring the idea that this is where we're going to live today -• Discussing the banner of peace with God and hope in His glory -• The concept of peace and its relationship to anxiety and God -• A biblical reference to Philippians 4:6-7, which advises not being anxious but presenting requests to God with thanksgiving -• The idea that true peace comes from God and transcends human understanding -• Mention of a prayer service on Wednesday night -• Description of a sense of peace pervading the evening -• Reflections on shared trials and tribulations in life -• Realization that some people may be experiencing difficulties -• The speaker describes a lifetime of trauma and hardship caused by evil forces. -• The concept of peace, especially the peace of God, is discussed in relation to Romans 5. -• The speaker explains that peace with God can be subjective and dependent on one's perception of events in life. -• Justification by faith and its relation to the law -• Paul's use of the term "justification" in a legal context -• An anecdote about getting a speeding ticket as a teenager and losing demerit points -• Changes in traffic laws and regulations over time, particularly in BC -• Insurance and the implications of speeding -• Going to court and dealing with fines -• Traffic court procedures and negotiations -• Personal experiences and anecdotes related to traffic offenses -• The consequences of speeding and how to handle them in a legal setting -• The speaker had a meeting with the Crown/Prosecuting Attorney -• They asked to reduce charges and completed paperwork -• The justice system was discussed, including Officer De Silva's case -• The court found that an incident occurred on March 12 (exact date unclear) -• The speaker doesn't remember the exact details of the incidents mentioned -• Discussion of a traffic infraction and the associated fine -• Defense of the accused in a court case, specifically regarding a speeding charge -• Reference to biblical teachings on grace and its relationship to reality and legal proceedings -• Favorable disposition towards the listener through faith -• Faith as a trust in Jesus and his work, leading to justification by grace through faith -• Justification is not subjective, but rather a decree that redefines reality -• The primary agent of justification is God, who justifies through faith alone -• This understanding leads to peace with God and a shift in ontology, creating a new reality for the listener. -• The concept of being a new creation in Christ -• Wondering what the old creation is and its relationship to God's gift of peace -• The demonstration of God's love for us while we were still sinners through Jesus' death -• Understanding that being a sinner does not negate God's gift of salvation or his presence in our lives -• Recognizing that being an enemy of God can coexist with receiving his grace -• The gospel is an offense and not a justification of sin -• You will be saved from God's wrath through Jesus, but you must first be justified by Him -• Do not add to the offense of the gospel by being a jerk or thinking you can justify yourself -• Instead, recognize your sinful nature and accept God's grace -• Justification is not about crediting Jesus' righteousness to ourselves, but rather about recognizing our need for salvation -• To understand this better, read Romans 5 and see if what I'm saying adds up -• The concept of war and sin -• Disobedience to God's design and moral law -• Assuming one should do something right simply because it is thought to be so -• Acting as king or queen of one's own life domain -• God's role in the world, including being the true King and Creator -• War and its relationship to God's will -• The definition of peace with God as an objective reality -• Jesus Christ's role in achieving peace with God -• The powerlessness of humans to achieve peace on their own -• God's demonstration of love for humanity through Jesus' sacrifice -• Death of Christ for our sins -• Reconciliation to God through death of His Son -• Being saved through life of Jesus -• Needing reconciliation with God -• Reconciled to God through life and death of Jesus -• Credit given to us by Jesus' righteousness -• Born from Him, receiving His wrath -• Jesus lived the life we should have lived, died the death we deserve -• Justification by faith -• Peace with God through Jesus Christ -• Relationship with Christ and friendship with God -• Removing guilt and gaining access to justification -• The beauty of the doctrine of justification by faith -• Receiving grace despite feeling like sinners -• Choosing to live like enemies of God -• Being given life, yet still acting like sinners -• Claiming to receive a gift of grace, but not living it out -• Doing the same things as enemies of God in the world -• Change is not possible on one's own -• The way to change is through faith and the idea that behavior can be changed by God's grace -• Justification is by grace through faith, resulting in peace with God and hope in God's glory -• Hope and peace come from standing together in God's glory -• God's glory is powerful in the life of a believer -• Everything that happens is for God's glory -• All history is focused on God's glory -• Everything done by God is for His own glory -• God's work in the world is focused on His glory -• It only makes sense that everything is done for God's glory -• God's goal in history is to display His glory and bring honor, praise, and recognition of His name. -• This is achieved by making His name great among people. -• History records instances where individuals have been used by God to capture the significance of this concept. -• Examples include Jonathan Edwards and John Piper. -• The ultimate goal is already guaranteed at the end of history. -• Creation and the difference between hoping in God's glory vs common sense -• The word "hope" in English is weak and can be a desire for something to happen, but it doesn't guarantee certainty -• Christian hope isn't just a wish, but a conviction that we might come true -• Christian hope is contrasted with worldly hopes which may not lead to certainty or guarantee a future glory -• The resurrection of Jesus guarantees the future glory of God and gives us hope that our current life has meaning in it. -• Hope is closely connected to the glory of God -• Suffering produces perseverance, which leads to character and hope -• Perseverance, character, and hope are interconnected and ultimately lead to glorifying God -• Despite suffering, one can have hope because it produces perseverance and character -• The end goal is to be made new in Christ and glorify God -• Suffering and hope are interconnected -• Misunderstanding of the nature of suffering and joy in Christian theology -• C.S. Lewis' concept that some temporal suffering can be part of God's plan for ultimate glory -• The idea that suffering can become a source of future bliss, rather than being a punishment or hindrance to it -• Justification by faith alone and the believer's peace with God -• Oppression on all sides and the search for truth in the Gospel -• Trauma, hope, and guidance through history and the end of one's own life -• Doubts, struggles, hardships, and the need for solace and comfort -• Invitation to come with questions and confusions -• God's certainty and truth -• Faith can be made more real through understanding of who God is -• Jesus' offer in a real and mysterious way -• Doxology begins: praising God's name for the truth of who He is and how He has revealed Himself in the world -• Praying to God -• Coming to the table and moving through a liturgy on a screen -• Speaking parts indicated for participants -• Giving thanks to the Lord, their God -• Praising God with joy -• Gratitude for creation and making humans in God's image -• Thanksgiving for Jesus Christ and salvation -• Praise to Jesus before His suffering and crucifixion -• The Lord Jesus' sacrifice and betrayal -• The Last Supper and the meaning of the bread and cup -• The New Covenant in Christ's blood -• Remembrance and proclamation of Christ's death and resurrection -• Faith, death, and resurrection of Christ -• Church as family, prepared by God for all who love and trust Him -• Invitation to come to the table -• Description of people with faith and many questions -• Invitation for those who have been to the sacrament often -• Invitation for those who have not received the sacrament in a long time -• Invitation for those who are trying to follow Jesus but have failed -• Announcement that Jesus Christ is risen -• The bread and juice are being served -• The body of Christ is given for everyone -• The blood of Christ is shed for everyone -• The worship team will lead in the supper -• Volunteers and elders are helping to serve -• Those unable to come to the front can participate in the supper by indicating to the usher -• The body of Christ being given for them -• Praying together during a service -• Yellow name tags to meet and pray with others in the foyer -• The blood of Christ being shed for them -• Eating and remembering the sacrifice of Christ's blood -• Showing love like a shadow, and believing -• The promise of forgiveness at the cross -• Sharing in the bread and sacrifice as a sign of peace around God's table -• Reflection on Christ's suffering and sacrifice for humanity's salvation -• Expression of gratitude and faith in response to God's love and mercy -• Seeking closeness with God, comfort from the Holy Spirit, and healing through prayer -• Prayer for spiritual saturation and healing -• The power of the blood of Jesus to wash away sin and make whole -• The preciousness of Christ's blood as a fount of forgiveness -• Love for Jesus, expressed through surrender of sin and gratitude for salvation -• Call to action for fellowship and connection after service -• Worshiping and singing to God's holy name -• Expressing gratitude and praise for life and its blessings -• Reflection on mortality and the passing of time -• Commitment to worshiping God even in difficult circumstances -• Repeating phrases of worship and gratitude throughout the conversation -• Final expressions of thanks \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - March 12, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - March 12, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index bd41d7299842fe036add6ff32dab82bc55585ee9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - March 12, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,5884 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.00] . -[30.00 --> 32.00] . -[60.00 --> 62.00] . -[62.00 --> 64.00] . -[64.00 --> 66.00] . -[66.00 --> 68.00] . -[68.00 --> 70.00] . -[70.00 --> 72.00] . -[72.00 --> 74.00] . -[74.00 --> 76.00] . -[76.00 --> 78.00] . -[78.00 --> 80.00] . -[80.00 --> 82.00] . -[82.00 --> 84.00] . -[84.00 --> 86.00] . -[86.00 --> 88.00] . -[88.00 --> 90.00] . -[90.00 --> 92.00] . -[92.00 --> 94.00] . -[94.00 --> 96.00] . -[96.00 --> 98.00] . -[98.00 --> 100.00] . -[100.00 --> 102.00] . -[102.00 --> 104.00] . -[104.00 --> 106.00] . -[106.00 --> 108.00] . -[108.00 --> 110.00] . -[110.00 --> 112.00] . -[112.00 --> 114.00] . -[114.00 --> 116.00] . -[116.00 --> 118.00] . -[118.00 --> 120.00] . -[120.00 --> 122.00] . -[122.00 --> 124.00] . -[124.00 --> 126.00] . -[126.00 --> 128.00] . -[128.00 --> 130.00] . -[130.00 --> 132.00] . -[132.00 --> 134.00] . -[134.00 --> 136.00] . -[136.00 --> 138.00] . -[138.00 --> 140.00] . -[140.00 --> 142.00] . -[142.00 --> 144.00] . -[144.00 --> 146.00] . -[146.00 --> 148.00] . -[148.00 --> 150.00] . -[150.00 --> 152.00] . -[152.00 --> 154.00] . -[154.00 --> 156.00] . -[156.00 --> 158.00] . -[158.00 --> 160.00] . -[160.00 --> 162.00] . -[162.00 --> 164.00] . -[164.00 --> 166.00] . -[166.00 --> 168.00] . -[168.00 --> 170.00] . -[170.00 --> 172.00] . -[172.00 --> 174.00] . -[174.00 --> 178.00] . -[178.00 --> 182.00] . -[182.00 --> 184.00] . -[184.00 --> 186.00] . -[186.00 --> 188.00] . -[188.00 --> 190.00] . -[190.00 --> 192.00] . -[192.00 --> 194.00] . -[194.00 --> 196.00] . -[196.00 --> 198.00] . -[198.00 --> 200.00] . -[200.00 --> 202.00] . -[202.00 --> 206.00] . -[206.00 --> 210.00] . -[210.00 --> 212.00] . -[212.00 --> 214.00] . -[214.00 --> 216.00] . -[216.00 --> 218.00] . -[218.00 --> 220.00] . -[220.00 --> 222.00] . -[222.00 --> 224.00] . -[224.00 --> 226.00] . -[226.00 --> 228.00] . -[228.00 --> 230.00] . -[230.00 --> 234.00] . -[234.00 --> 238.00] . -[238.00 --> 240.00] . -[240.00 --> 242.00] . -[242.00 --> 244.00] . -[244.00 --> 246.00] . -[246.00 --> 248.00] . -[248.00 --> 250.00] . -[250.00 --> 252.00] . -[252.00 --> 254.00] . -[254.00 --> 256.00] . -[256.00 --> 258.00] . -[258.00 --> 262.00] . -[262.00 --> 266.00] . -[266.00 --> 268.00] . -[268.00 --> 270.00] . -[270.00 --> 272.00] . -[272.00 --> 274.00] . -[274.00 --> 276.00] . -[276.00 --> 278.00] . -[278.00 --> 280.00] . -[280.00 --> 282.00] . -[282.00 --> 284.00] . -[284.00 --> 286.00] . -[286.00 --> 290.00] . -[290.00 --> 294.00] . -[294.00 --> 296.00] . -[296.00 --> 298.00] . -[298.00 --> 300.00] . -[300.00 --> 302.00] . -[302.00 --> 304.00] . -[304.00 --> 306.00] . -[306.00 --> 308.00] . -[308.00 --> 310.00] . -[310.00 --> 312.00] . -[312.00 --> 314.00] . -[314.00 --> 318.00] . -[318.00 --> 322.00] . -[322.00 --> 324.00] . -[324.00 --> 326.00] . -[326.00 --> 328.00] . -[328.00 --> 330.00] . -[330.00 --> 332.00] . -[332.00 --> 334.00] . -[334.00 --> 336.00] . -[336.00 --> 338.00] . -[338.00 --> 340.00] . -[340.00 --> 342.00] . -[342.00 --> 346.00] . -[346.00 --> 350.00] . -[350.00 --> 352.00] . -[352.00 --> 354.00] . -[354.00 --> 356.00] . -[356.00 --> 358.00] . -[358.00 --> 360.00] . -[360.00 --> 362.00] . -[362.00 --> 364.00] . -[364.00 --> 366.00] . -[366.00 --> 368.00] . -[368.00 --> 369.00] . -[369.00 --> 371.00] . -[371.00 --> 375.00] . -[375.00 --> 379.00] . -[379.00 --> 381.00] . -[381.00 --> 383.00] . -[383.00 --> 385.00] . -[385.00 --> 387.00] . -[387.00 --> 389.00] . -[389.00 --> 391.00] . -[391.00 --> 393.00] . -[393.00 --> 395.00] . -[395.00 --> 397.00] . -[397.00 --> 399.00] . -[399.00 --> 401.00] . -[401.00 --> 403.00] Good morning, everyone. -[403.00 --> 405.00] . -[405.00 --> 407.00] . -[407.00 --> 409.00] . -[409.00 --> 411.00] . -[411.00 --> 411.06] . -[411.06 --> 413.00] . -[413.00 --> 413.50] . -[413.50 --> 414.00] . -[414.00 --> 415.00] . -[415.00 --> 417.00] . -[417.00 --> 418.00] . -[418.00 --> 419.00] . -[419.00 --> 420.00] . -[420.00 --> 421.00] . -[421.00 --> 422.00] . -[422.00 --> 423.00] . -[423.00 --> 424.00] . -[424.00 --> 424.08] . -[424.08 --> 429.34] we should all just stop talking when that happens. And just wait, no, don't do that, -[429.36 --> 431.90] because I'll probably be the one talking at that point, right? Yeah, I don't know. -[433.40 --> 437.72] Welcome to worship. We are excited that you are here. My name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors -[437.72 --> 444.72] here at Langley Emanuel, and it is my privilege, along with a few others, to lead in our shared -[444.72 --> 449.86] worship this morning. This morning is a special service. Not only do we have a chance to celebrate -[449.86 --> 455.84] Lord's Supper together, but we are going to be commissioning our team to the Mexico mission. -[456.16 --> 462.84] They leave on Saturday of this coming week. And so if you're visiting to support them, thank you for -[462.84 --> 468.22] being here. If you came early this morning and had pancake breakfast, thank you for that and -[468.22 --> 473.20] participating in that. It was great to see so many people out and sharing a meal before our worship -[473.20 --> 477.48] together. Before we begin, we have a couple announcements to make, and so I'm going to -[477.48 --> 485.08] invite Josh to come up. And as Josh is on his way up, I just want to start by saying a huge thank you -[485.08 --> 493.46] to everyone who helped this past Tuesday and Wednesday with Classis. And so Classis is the -[493.46 --> 499.48] regional gathering of Christian Reformed churches here in sort of the Fraser Valley and up into -[499.48 --> 506.90] the south part of the interior. Anyway, we gathered for a day and a half of meetings here, and that was -[506.90 --> 512.52] an incredible joy in part because of all of your work in volunteering and in pulling that together. -[513.38 --> 519.30] And Dolores Vartstra was a champion in the midst of all of that. She did amazing things. -[522.74 --> 525.38] However, if I don't see Dolores, she's still recovering. -[526.50 --> 528.02] Yeah, still recovering. -[528.02 --> 534.26] But we are indeed grateful for all of you and for the way that we came together in providing for that. -[534.82 --> 535.94] Thank you. Thank you. -[541.62 --> 542.02] Hello? -[544.34 --> 545.46] Sorry, that surprised me too. -[546.66 --> 550.92] So, for the young adults, just wanted to remind you that the Bible study is today, an hour after church, -[551.14 --> 552.50] at my house. Thanks. -[552.50 --> 555.70] Thank you. -[557.38 --> 562.98] In case you didn't get that, there's a Bible study at Josh's house. If you're a young adult or young adult-ish, -[563.46 --> 564.90] grab him. He'll give you details. -[566.34 --> 574.34] I do also want to just mention this week coming, we are having Christianity Explored class on Wednesday. -[574.34 --> 580.02] We meet here at 7 p.m. If that's something you're interested in, grab me. That's a course, really, -[580.18 --> 587.62] for people who are new to faith or who are returning to faith after years away. Just an introduction to what it means to be -[587.62 --> 592.68] Christian. We encourage you to come and to bring someone with whom you have been talking about faith. -[593.46 --> 597.30] As well, there's 2020 tonight. That's for the youth. -[597.30 --> 602.26] If you have any questions about what that looks like, you can grab Pastor Kevin and he will answer those. -[604.42 --> 612.76] Let's stop there. Let's stand as we are welcomed in God's presence with his greeting and by his grace. -[614.58 --> 618.36] Receive the greeting of God as we worship him this morning. -[618.36 --> 628.60] grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, -[629.28 --> 632.96] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. -[635.90 --> 642.64] You may greet those around you. Take a moment and say hello. Give, pass the peace. -[642.64 --> 662.00] Thank you. -[665.76 --> 667.66] Thank you. -[667.68 --> 668.16] Fit. -[668.16 --> 668.36] Thank you. -[668.36 --> 669.44] Hi, Linda. -[669.44 --> 669.72] Bye. -[669.72 --> 669.76] Bye. -[670.14 --> 670.24] ... -[670.24 --> 671.84] Do you want to join us? -[671.84 --> 695.66] Come all you people, come and praise your Maker. -[695.66 --> 700.40] Come all you people, come and praise your Maker. -[700.40 --> 705.08] Come all you people, come and praise your Maker. -[705.52 --> 708.50] Come now and worship the Lord. -[709.74 --> 714.50] Come all you people, come and praise your Savior. -[714.50 --> 719.26] Come all you people, come and praise your Savior. -[723.36 --> 728.10] Come now and worship the Lord. -[728.10 --> 742.10] Come all you people, come and praise the Spirit. -[742.10 --> 747.10] Come now and worship the Lord. -[747.10 --> 761.10] Come all you people, come and praise your Maker. -[761.10 --> 766.10] Come now and worship the Lord. -[766.10 --> 772.10] Come now and worship the Lord. -[772.10 --> 776.10] Please bow with me in prayer. -[776.10 --> 781.10] Lord God, we gather in this place not because we're deserving of your love -[781.10 --> 785.10] and not because we've lived faithfully before your face. -[785.10 --> 788.10] We gather here because you've called us. -[788.10 --> 791.10] You loved us before we could love you. -[791.10 --> 793.10] You've given your Son for our salvation. -[793.10 --> 800.10] And for this we join all creation in blessing you and praising you and thanking you. -[800.10 --> 806.10] Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God Almighty, you are great and greatly to be praised. -[806.10 --> 811.10] As we offer our praise, we long for you to mold us in the image of your Son, -[811.10 --> 816.10] whose death and resurrection give us hope, through the power of the Holy Spirit. -[816.10 --> 817.10] Amen. -[817.10 --> 824.10] You stood before creation, eternal life, -[824.10 --> 832.10] you stood before creation, eternal life, -[832.10 --> 838.10] you stood before creation, -[838.10 --> 853.10] eternity in your hand, -[853.10 --> 863.10] you spoke the earth into motion, my soul now to stand. -[863.10 --> 866.10] You stood before my failure, -[866.10 --> 869.10] you stood before my failure, -[869.10 --> 874.10] and carried the cross for my shame. -[874.10 --> 884.10] My sin weighed upon your shoulders, my soul now to stand. -[884.10 --> 890.10] So what can I say? -[890.10 --> 895.10] And what can I do? -[895.10 --> 901.10] But offer this heart, O God, -[901.10 --> 906.10] completely to you. -[906.10 --> 910.66] consider you how tohetically sensitive -[911.10 --> 912.10] semen, -[912.10 --> 913.10] œ sarong, -[913.10 --> 919.30] ful -[920.10 --> 922.10] e -[922.10 --> 935.10] o -[935.10 --> 940.78] and what can i do -[940.78 --> 946.38] but offer this heart oh god -[946.38 --> 950.54] completely -[952.06 --> 955.74] so what can i say -[957.82 --> 961.42] and what can i do -[961.42 --> 968.46] but offer this heart oh god -[969.02 --> 975.02] completely -[982.30 --> 988.38] so i'll stand with arms high and heart abandoned -[988.38 --> 995.42] in awe of the one who gave it all and i'll stand -[995.42 --> 1003.42] my soul lord to you surrendered all i am is yours -[1003.42 --> 1010.46] so i'll stand with arms high and heart abandoned -[1010.46 --> 1024.46] in awe of the one who gave it all and i'll stand my soul lord to you surrendered all i am is yours -[1024.46 --> 1031.50] all i am is yours -[1031.50 --> 1044.54] all i am is yours -[1044.54 --> 1049.02] the proof of god's amazing love is this -[1051.18 --> 1054.06] while we were sinners christ died for us -[1056.22 --> 1063.34] let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness so that we may receive mercy and find -[1063.34 --> 1068.62] grace to help in time of need trusting in god's faithfulness and compassion -[1070.94 --> 1084.38] let's confess our sin before god and one another in silent prayer -[1084.38 --> 1111.98] so -[1111.98 --> 1141.96] Thank you. -[1141.98 --> 1171.96] Thank you. -[1171.98 --> 1173.98] Thank you. -[1201.98 --> 1227.98] Emmanuel, the rescue for sinners, the ransom from heaven, Jesus Messiah, Lord of all. -[1227.98 --> 1240.40] His body the bread, His blood the wine, broken and poured out all for love. -[1240.40 --> 1246.40] And the whole earth trembled and the veil was torn. -[1246.40 --> 1250.40] Love so amazing. -[1252.40 --> 1255.40] Love so amazing. -[1255.40 --> 1285.40] -[1285.40 --> 1287.40] Amen. -[1287.40 --> 1289.40] Amen. -[1289.40 --> 1319.40] -[1319.40 --> 1349.40] -[1349.40 --> 1379.40] -[1379.40 --> 1409.40] -[1409.40 --> 1411.40] Amen. -[1411.40 --> 1413.40] Amen. -[1413.40 --> 1415.40] Amen. -[1415.40 --> 1417.40] Amen. -[1417.40 --> 1419.40] Amen. -[1419.40 --> 1421.40] Amen. -[1421.40 --> 1422.40] Amen. -[1422.40 --> 1423.40] Amen. -[1423.40 --> 1425.40] Amen. -[1425.40 --> 1427.84] who had no sin to be sin for us, -[1428.20 --> 1432.30] so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. -[1432.30 --> 1458.52] In Christ alone my hope is found, -[1458.52 --> 1462.86] he is my light, my strength, my song, -[1463.32 --> 1467.92] this cornerstone, this solid ground, -[1468.38 --> 1472.26] firm through the fiercest drought and storm. -[1472.74 --> 1476.52] What heights of love, what depths of peace, -[1477.46 --> 1481.82] when fears are stilled, when strivings cease, -[1482.30 --> 1486.94] my comforter, my all in all, -[1486.94 --> 1492.34] here in the love of Christ I stand. -[1500.74 --> 1506.22] In Christ alone, who took on flesh, -[1506.68 --> 1509.94] fullness of God in helpless babe, -[1509.94 --> 1514.66] this gift of love and righteousness, -[1515.98 --> 1519.98] scorned by the ones he came to save, -[1520.42 --> 1523.94] till on that cross as Jesus died, -[1525.10 --> 1528.72] the wrath of God was satisfied, -[1529.72 --> 1534.16] for every sin on him was laid, -[1534.16 --> 1539.66] here in the death of Christ I live. -[1547.56 --> 1553.24] There in the ground his body lay, -[1553.76 --> 1557.90] light of the world by darkness slain, -[1557.90 --> 1562.90] then bursting forth in glorious day, -[1563.30 --> 1567.22] up from the grave he rose again, -[1567.72 --> 1571.46] and as he stands in victory, -[1572.50 --> 1576.72] sin's curse has lost its grip on me, -[1577.20 --> 1581.78] for I am his and he is mine, -[1581.78 --> 1587.06] bought with the precious blood of Christ. -[1595.56 --> 1601.06] No guilt in life, no fear in death, -[1601.18 --> 1605.50] this is the power of Christ in me. -[1605.50 --> 1610.66] From life's first cry to final breath, -[1611.10 --> 1614.42] Jesus commands my destiny. -[1615.52 --> 1619.88] No power of hell, no scheme of man, -[1620.30 --> 1624.62] can ever pluck me from his hand, -[1625.06 --> 1629.68] till he returns or calls me home, -[1630.08 --> 1633.50] here in the power of Christ I stand. -[1633.50 --> 1658.34] I invite you to be seated. -[1663.50 --> 1666.26] In just under one week, -[1666.42 --> 1668.98] a team of 10 members of this church, -[1669.10 --> 1672.96] who range from the age of 2 to older than 2, -[1673.10 --> 1674.82] are heading down to Mexico, -[1675.44 --> 1676.98] and we are going to take a moment right now -[1676.98 --> 1677.74] to commission them. -[1677.80 --> 1680.36] So I'm going to invite Brandon Muller forward. -[1681.04 --> 1683.90] He is one of the leaders heading on this trip, -[1683.98 --> 1685.18] and kind of the point person, -[1685.30 --> 1686.82] and so he is going to share a little bit -[1686.82 --> 1688.16] about some of the people -[1688.16 --> 1689.74] that they are going to be visiting down there, -[1689.74 --> 1692.18] and some of the places they're going to be going. -[1693.50 --> 1694.50] Good morning. -[1695.04 --> 1698.04] So yeah, I don't know if there's photos or not, -[1698.10 --> 1698.52] but anyways, -[1699.10 --> 1701.46] we'll be working kind of with the same people -[1701.46 --> 1703.82] we generally do year after year after year. -[1704.00 --> 1705.02] That is the goal of the trip, -[1705.08 --> 1707.18] is to keep building the same relationships -[1707.18 --> 1709.16] and expanding those and helping them in their mission. -[1709.76 --> 1712.40] So we'll be working with Mission Juiceroum Christiane, -[1712.40 --> 1717.78] which is Pastor Abelino, Maria, Erica, Leandro, -[1718.78 --> 1720.10] their whole church community. -[1720.88 --> 1722.18] With them, we'll be helping with, -[1722.28 --> 1723.78] a big thing with them is their kids ministry, -[1723.88 --> 1724.66] as well as their youth, -[1724.70 --> 1726.38] will be the focuses of this year again. -[1727.08 --> 1729.92] The kids ministry is how they evangelize to the adults, -[1730.00 --> 1731.82] because the kids bring the adults to the church, -[1731.88 --> 1734.08] and that's their kind of plan of growth, -[1734.16 --> 1734.94] which has, you know, -[1734.98 --> 1737.24] showed huge results over the years. -[1737.24 --> 1738.46] But the other one is youth. -[1738.58 --> 1740.54] I mean, their youth struggle with the same issues ours do, -[1741.06 --> 1745.16] but maybe a little bit more easier to fall to the wrong side -[1745.16 --> 1747.08] and leave the church and kind of be more worldly. -[1747.64 --> 1749.66] So they're trying to model their youth program -[1749.66 --> 1752.40] after how Kevin Lobert has modeled our youth program. -[1753.00 --> 1754.76] So we just often spend a couple nights with them -[1754.76 --> 1755.40] and days with them -[1755.40 --> 1757.88] and just kind of teaching them how the 2020 works, -[1758.02 --> 1759.66] kind of getting their youth behind it -[1759.66 --> 1762.18] and involved in it by just our youth talking -[1762.18 --> 1763.72] like we do with our 2020s, -[1764.34 --> 1766.22] doing Bible lessons with them and stuff like that, -[1766.22 --> 1768.98] and just trying to strengthen that, you know, middle ground, -[1769.14 --> 1770.54] that jump between the kids -[1770.54 --> 1772.32] that are really excited about the church and God -[1772.32 --> 1774.94] and the, you know, community and the adults -[1774.94 --> 1775.68] where they kind of, again, -[1775.72 --> 1777.40] understand the responsibility of it. -[1777.86 --> 1779.68] Just trying to focus on that youth stuff. -[1779.88 --> 1780.98] So we're working with them, -[1781.04 --> 1782.56] and then, of course, Jody and Ariel as well. -[1783.22 --> 1784.88] We'll be doing a couple things with them this year. -[1784.98 --> 1787.40] We always go visit their men's rehab, -[1788.12 --> 1789.24] the halfway house kind of thing. -[1789.52 --> 1790.60] So we'll be visiting that -[1790.60 --> 1792.54] and just kind of talking with the people there, -[1792.62 --> 1794.46] hearing their stories, sharing our stories, -[1794.46 --> 1796.94] and we often share a nice, cool dinner with them. -[1798.00 --> 1801.04] And then we'll also be going to Jody Works -[1801.04 --> 1803.64] slash runs a woman's Bible study -[1803.64 --> 1805.02] for the church down there -[1805.02 --> 1808.02] that's huge and grows huge every year, -[1808.06 --> 1808.88] and it always surprises us, -[1808.88 --> 1810.42] and we'll be kind of working with that as well. -[1810.86 --> 1812.70] And then there might be some other side projects, of course, -[1812.80 --> 1814.78] but it's Mexico slash Flexico, -[1814.88 --> 1816.50] which means we never really know what's going to happen. -[1816.50 --> 1819.32] But those are kind of our major ministries. -[1824.82 --> 1825.40] All right. -[1825.50 --> 1827.48] So Pastor Chris and I are going to lead this team -[1827.48 --> 1829.94] in a little bit of a commissioning. -[1830.54 --> 1831.48] Before we do that, -[1831.92 --> 1833.16] well, actually, we're going to start -[1833.16 --> 1836.54] by reading a bit of a liturgy here. -[1836.88 --> 1840.44] So Pastor Chris is going to just communicate -[1840.44 --> 1841.66] with Brandon off to the side. -[1841.72 --> 1842.50] No one look over there. -[1842.58 --> 1843.44] Everybody look up here. -[1843.58 --> 1845.04] That way he can do this in quiet, -[1845.04 --> 1846.02] and there we go. -[1846.36 --> 1848.80] So our God is a sending God. -[1849.34 --> 1851.18] He sent Abram to a land he didn't know -[1851.18 --> 1853.42] and promised him a future he couldn't see. -[1853.90 --> 1857.10] He sent Moses to stand up against the Pharaoh -[1857.10 --> 1859.68] and cry out for the release of the oppressed people. -[1860.12 --> 1862.42] He sent Samuel to find the next king -[1862.42 --> 1865.48] in the unexpected youngest son named David. -[1866.00 --> 1867.96] He sent Jonah, even though he fled, -[1868.06 --> 1870.32] to preach the good news of repentance and forgiveness. -[1870.84 --> 1873.80] And he sent his son into the world to redeem us. -[1873.80 --> 1878.10] And Jesus sends his disciples down to you and I. -[1878.76 --> 1880.48] He sends us out as missionaries -[1880.48 --> 1882.40] and ambassadors of his reconciliation. -[1886.66 --> 1887.42] Disciples. -[1888.08 --> 1889.40] Christ promised his disciples -[1889.40 --> 1891.48] that they would never be alone. -[1892.16 --> 1895.10] He would send his spirit to be with them. -[1895.94 --> 1898.12] This promise applies to those -[1898.12 --> 1900.78] whose ministry is in familiar places -[1900.78 --> 1904.28] and those who travel far to new settings -[1904.28 --> 1907.18] for a long duration or for a shorter time. -[1908.30 --> 1910.72] Today, we rejoice in the calling -[1910.72 --> 1912.64] and the blessing of God. -[1913.28 --> 1914.82] God blesses us with salvation -[1914.82 --> 1916.86] and then blesses us with the privilege -[1916.86 --> 1921.00] of partnering in spreading his good news. -[1921.00 --> 1925.98] I would love to invite this Mexico team forward now. -[1926.06 --> 1927.74] So if you're heading down to Tijuana -[1927.74 --> 1929.58] in six days or so, -[1929.86 --> 1930.82] can you come up right now? -[1930.88 --> 1932.82] We're going to kind of stand up in the front here -[1932.82 --> 1933.74] in front of this chair. -[1934.30 --> 1936.34] And you can make your way up here -[1936.34 --> 1938.06] at this moment. -[1938.06 --> 1949.04] There's two Hubert's missing -[1949.04 --> 1950.08] and a Joey missing -[1950.08 --> 1951.72] and a Hayden missing. -[1952.14 --> 1952.58] Right? -[1952.74 --> 1953.68] So that would be the ten. -[1954.36 --> 1955.96] So here is your team, -[1956.12 --> 1958.44] short, three youth and one small child. -[1960.78 --> 1962.06] Following the apostles, -[1962.32 --> 1963.86] the church is sent. -[1964.34 --> 1965.78] You, Mexico team, -[1965.86 --> 1967.64] are sent with the gospel of the kingdom -[1967.64 --> 1969.46] to make disciples of all nations, -[1969.90 --> 1970.68] to feed the hungry -[1970.68 --> 1972.26] and to proclaim the assurance -[1972.26 --> 1973.72] that in the name of Christ -[1973.72 --> 1975.02] there is forgiveness of sin -[1975.02 --> 1976.66] and a new life for all -[1976.66 --> 1977.80] who repent and believe. -[1977.90 --> 1980.16] And that charges for all of us as a church. -[1980.66 --> 1982.28] In a world estranged from God -[1982.28 --> 1984.54] where millions face confusing choices, -[1985.10 --> 1987.64] this mission is central to our being. -[1987.64 --> 1990.58] For we announce the one name that saves. -[1992.06 --> 1995.00] You, now go to Tijuana and Rosarito -[1995.00 --> 1996.52] and the extending area there, -[1996.52 --> 1997.98] Mexico in that mission, -[1998.12 --> 1999.24] with that gospel, -[1999.64 --> 2001.18] in the power of the Spirit. -[2001.98 --> 2003.02] May God bless you -[2003.02 --> 2004.24] and all your work -[2004.24 --> 2005.20] and relationship building. -[2005.62 --> 2007.06] And may you see the labor, -[2007.20 --> 2008.56] your labor in the Lord -[2008.56 --> 2009.74] is not in vain. -[2011.62 --> 2013.16] We're going to pray over them -[2013.16 --> 2014.76] and we're going to do so -[2014.76 --> 2016.68] by inviting family -[2016.68 --> 2017.90] and elders, -[2018.78 --> 2019.08] friends, -[2019.26 --> 2019.82] youth leaders, -[2020.30 --> 2021.34] whoever is moved, -[2021.50 --> 2022.30] to come up -[2022.30 --> 2023.34] and join them here, -[2023.34 --> 2024.74] lay hands on them -[2024.74 --> 2026.68] and send them out. -[2026.76 --> 2027.60] So we're going to ask you guys -[2027.60 --> 2029.60] just move kind of into the middle there, -[2030.66 --> 2031.54] across the front. -[2031.62 --> 2032.44] If you are family -[2032.44 --> 2034.32] or elders, -[2034.46 --> 2035.74] I encourage you to come forward -[2035.74 --> 2036.64] and find someone, -[2036.74 --> 2037.28] youth leaders, -[2037.68 --> 2039.02] I encourage you to come forward, -[2039.50 --> 2040.12] find someone, -[2040.38 --> 2042.40] lay your hands on them -[2042.40 --> 2043.34] during this time. -[2045.32 --> 2047.10] If you are so moved, -[2047.28 --> 2048.50] you may stay in your seats -[2048.50 --> 2049.98] and then just hold your hand out -[2049.98 --> 2051.10] as a sign also -[2051.10 --> 2052.86] of laying your hand on them -[2052.86 --> 2053.76] and supporting them. -[2055.60 --> 2057.12] This turns into -[2057.12 --> 2058.86] a really beautiful picture -[2058.86 --> 2059.84] for us -[2059.84 --> 2062.14] of the kind of support -[2062.14 --> 2062.96] and encouragement -[2062.96 --> 2065.68] that these members go with. -[2065.80 --> 2066.96] There is a whole community -[2066.96 --> 2068.18] of faith and family -[2068.18 --> 2069.08] behind them -[2069.08 --> 2070.10] as they go -[2070.10 --> 2071.62] in the power of the Spirit. -[2072.04 --> 2074.48] And so we pray for you today. -[2074.78 --> 2076.44] We pray this blessing on you -[2076.44 --> 2077.50] as you go. -[2077.50 --> 2082.94] Holy God, -[2083.72 --> 2085.78] we know that you are -[2085.78 --> 2087.52] a sending God. -[2088.90 --> 2090.50] Throughout the history -[2090.50 --> 2091.72] of salvation, -[2092.20 --> 2093.38] your work in the world -[2093.38 --> 2094.12] has been accomplished -[2094.12 --> 2095.40] by people you sent -[2095.40 --> 2096.78] into new, -[2097.24 --> 2097.68] strange, -[2097.86 --> 2099.34] and exciting places. -[2100.72 --> 2102.64] And we pray for this team -[2102.64 --> 2104.38] that you are now sending. -[2104.38 --> 2106.76] We thank you, -[2106.84 --> 2107.14] Lord God, -[2107.18 --> 2107.82] for the promise -[2107.82 --> 2109.02] that as you send, -[2109.22 --> 2110.20] you also go. -[2111.34 --> 2112.36] You go with them -[2112.36 --> 2113.62] in the power of the Spirit. -[2114.46 --> 2115.66] And so fill them -[2115.66 --> 2116.62] with your Spirit. -[2117.10 --> 2117.78] Fill them -[2117.78 --> 2119.20] with Holy Spirit power. -[2119.76 --> 2120.44] Fill them -[2120.44 --> 2122.22] with a deep sense -[2122.22 --> 2123.64] and experience -[2123.64 --> 2125.00] of your nearness -[2125.00 --> 2126.18] in the days -[2126.18 --> 2127.34] and weeks to come. -[2128.26 --> 2129.40] For the conversations -[2129.40 --> 2130.92] they are about to have, -[2131.04 --> 2131.48] Lord God, -[2131.54 --> 2132.52] we pray your blessing. -[2132.52 --> 2134.04] for the people -[2134.04 --> 2135.54] that they are about to meet, -[2135.66 --> 2137.12] we pray your blessing. -[2138.22 --> 2139.18] For the ministries -[2139.18 --> 2140.04] and the individuals -[2140.04 --> 2141.24] that they will connect with -[2141.24 --> 2141.92] in Mexico, -[2142.34 --> 2143.54] we pray your blessing. -[2144.56 --> 2146.68] We pray for Abelino -[2146.68 --> 2147.54] and Maria. -[2147.80 --> 2149.34] We pray for Alejandro -[2149.34 --> 2149.92] and Abel. -[2150.08 --> 2151.14] We pray for Erica -[2151.14 --> 2152.74] and for all of the youth -[2152.74 --> 2155.20] that they will connect with -[2155.20 --> 2155.96] and that they will do -[2155.96 --> 2157.32] ministry with. -[2157.32 --> 2159.16] We pray, Lord God, -[2159.22 --> 2159.72] for Jody -[2159.72 --> 2160.78] and for Uriel -[2160.78 --> 2161.92] and for their family. -[2162.08 --> 2163.36] We pray for the men -[2163.36 --> 2164.46] who live in their home. -[2164.64 --> 2165.52] We pray, Lord God, -[2165.96 --> 2166.86] preach the gospel -[2166.86 --> 2168.16] boldly into their hearts -[2168.16 --> 2170.08] and transform their lives -[2170.08 --> 2170.80] by the truth -[2170.80 --> 2172.46] of the Lord Jesus Christ. -[2173.96 --> 2174.86] We pray, God, -[2174.92 --> 2175.44] for all those -[2175.44 --> 2176.12] who come alongside -[2176.12 --> 2176.90] this team -[2176.90 --> 2177.86] as translators, -[2178.02 --> 2179.28] as helpers, -[2179.36 --> 2180.98] as facilitators. -[2181.10 --> 2181.96] We think of the Stretkas -[2181.96 --> 2182.76] and the Fruins -[2182.76 --> 2184.22] and the so many others -[2184.22 --> 2185.74] with whom they will connect -[2185.74 --> 2187.32] and spend the week. -[2187.44 --> 2189.70] We pray a blessing on them. -[2191.72 --> 2192.58] And Lord God, -[2192.66 --> 2194.62] as this team now goes -[2194.62 --> 2196.36] with whatever anxiety -[2196.36 --> 2197.22] they may have -[2197.22 --> 2197.92] about travel -[2197.92 --> 2199.84] or about being in Tijuana, -[2200.04 --> 2200.86] whatever anxieties -[2200.86 --> 2202.06] their parents may have -[2202.06 --> 2203.04] about doing the same -[2203.04 --> 2204.14] or their family may have -[2204.14 --> 2205.18] about doing that, -[2205.24 --> 2206.02] we pray, Lord God, -[2206.06 --> 2206.78] that they would go -[2206.78 --> 2207.94] in the confidence -[2207.94 --> 2209.52] that you are near them. -[2209.60 --> 2210.52] And so, Lord God, -[2210.58 --> 2212.12] in the name of Jesus Christ, -[2212.12 --> 2213.56] bless them -[2213.56 --> 2214.76] and keep them. -[2215.64 --> 2216.56] Make your face -[2216.56 --> 2217.70] to shine upon them -[2217.70 --> 2219.94] and be gracious to them. -[2221.02 --> 2221.98] Turn your face -[2221.98 --> 2222.60] toward them -[2222.60 --> 2223.56] and give them -[2223.56 --> 2224.60] your peace, -[2224.86 --> 2225.28] we pray, -[2225.56 --> 2226.54] in Jesus' name. -[2227.10 --> 2228.00] All God's people said, -[2228.72 --> 2229.28] Amen. -[2232.48 --> 2233.56] As you have seen, -[2233.72 --> 2235.24] those who are going -[2235.24 --> 2236.32] on this trip up front -[2236.32 --> 2238.38] and in the pancake breakfast -[2238.38 --> 2239.32] or the Mexico dinner, -[2239.86 --> 2240.58] I encourage you -[2240.58 --> 2241.78] following service today -[2241.78 --> 2242.94] grab one of them, -[2243.08 --> 2243.90] encourage them, -[2244.18 --> 2245.22] connect with them -[2245.22 --> 2247.64] and see what it is -[2247.64 --> 2248.74] that they are excited about -[2248.74 --> 2249.82] for this trip ahead. -[2251.12 --> 2251.98] I'd like to invite -[2251.98 --> 2252.56] the deacon -[2252.56 --> 2253.84] who's going to do -[2253.84 --> 2254.90] our offering announcement -[2254.90 --> 2255.58] to the front. -[2255.94 --> 2256.32] Thanks, Imo. -[2257.18 --> 2278.98] Thank you. -[2278.98 --> 2284.74] Got it? -[2285.30 --> 2286.12] That's it. -[2286.32 --> 2286.76] That's better. -[2287.98 --> 2288.98] My name is Emo. -[2289.30 --> 2291.52] I'm a deacon here at Emanuel. -[2292.62 --> 2297.70] We continue our worship with the giving of our gifts for the budget, -[2297.70 --> 2302.42] which covers the administration and ministries of our church. -[2302.42 --> 2309.22] And the special offering this morning is for M2W2 prison mentorship. -[2310.38 --> 2314.70] Many people in prison experience isolation and loneliness. -[2315.76 --> 2323.00] An M2W2 mentor can provide a safe space for trust to grow and healing to occur. -[2323.92 --> 2327.56] Our prison mentors bring companionship, accountability, -[2327.56 --> 2333.54] and an outside perspective to folks in prison as well as prayer. -[2336.00 --> 2340.84] Post-prison support, life after prison isn't easy. -[2341.66 --> 2348.74] A 2019 study by Correctional Service Canada found that 23% of people leaving prison -[2348.74 --> 2351.26] were reconvicted after two years. -[2351.26 --> 2359.44] After five years, that number jumps to 38% and 60% for Indigenous men. -[2359.96 --> 2364.46] So they have a program called NOLA. -[2364.98 --> 2366.72] No one leaves alone. -[2367.26 --> 2373.82] Offers post-incarceration support to participants based on their needs. -[2373.82 --> 2381.02] Often, NOLA participants meet with a circle of volunteers and M2W2 staff. -[2382.02 --> 2386.90] The circle provides mentorship and practical support in five areas. -[2387.44 --> 2391.90] Housing, health, employment, education, and relationships. -[2393.06 --> 2398.80] Alternatively, participants can choose to meet with a single volunteer or staff member -[2398.80 --> 2403.76] on an as-needed basis to access support in these same areas. -[2404.84 --> 2409.82] Participants in NOLA recognize the invaluable support it has provided. -[2410.74 --> 2412.10] As one participant said, -[2412.16 --> 2417.28] you try to rebuild your life in the community and you can't do it by yourself. -[2418.18 --> 2420.62] NOLA cares and that's why it works. -[2421.24 --> 2422.72] It makes a total difference. -[2422.72 --> 2430.28] The Spirit of the Lord is on me because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. -[2431.08 --> 2436.60] He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind -[2436.60 --> 2439.40] to set the oppressed free. -[2440.16 --> 2441.64] Luke 4, verse 18. -[2442.74 --> 2449.20] Next week's offering is for the Budget and Langley Emanuel Refugee Sponsorship Fund. -[2449.20 --> 2449.26] Thank you. -[2452.72 --> 2475.56] O kneel me down again -[2475.56 --> 2480.44] Here at your feet -[2480.44 --> 2486.06] Show me how much you love -[2486.06 --> 2489.00] Humility -[2489.00 --> 2496.40] O Spirit be the star -[2496.40 --> 2500.86] That leads me to -[2500.86 --> 2506.74] The humble heart of love -[2506.74 --> 2510.42] I see in you -[2510.42 --> 2517.82] Cause you are the God of the broken -[2517.82 --> 2522.44] The friend of the weak -[2522.44 --> 2527.84] And you wash the feet of the weary -[2527.84 --> 2532.04] Embrace the ones in need -[2532.04 --> 2537.66] And I want to be like you -[2537.66 --> 2541.44] To have this heart in me -[2541.44 --> 2547.06] You are the God of the humble -[2547.06 --> 2548.94] You are the humble -[2548.94 --> 2553.00] You are the humble King -[2553.00 --> 2558.62] O kneel me down again -[2558.62 --> 2562.46] Here at your feet -[2562.46 --> 2568.08] Show me how much you love -[2568.08 --> 2568.98] Show me how much you love -[2568.98 --> 2572.08] Humanity -[2572.08 --> 2572.98] Show me how much you love -[2572.98 --> 2574.08] Humanity -[2574.08 --> 2576.02] O Spirit be the star -[2576.02 --> 2583.42] Let be the star that leads me to -[2583.42 --> 2584.04] The humble heart of the humble -[2584.04 --> 2589.04] The humble heart of love -[2589.04 --> 2589.66] I see in you -[2589.66 --> 2592.66] I see in you -[2592.66 --> 2594.66] I see in you -[2594.66 --> 2596.66] I see in you -[2596.66 --> 2599.28] You are the God of the broken -[2599.28 --> 2603.06] The friend of the weak -[2603.06 --> 2610.46] And you wash the feet of the weary -[2610.46 --> 2612.46] Embrace the ones in need -[2612.46 --> 2617.24] And I want to be like you -[2617.24 --> 2618.72] Jesus -[2618.72 --> 2622.46] To have this heart in me -[2622.46 --> 2628.44] You are the God of the humble -[2628.44 --> 2633.16] You are the humble King -[2633.16 --> 2638.40] You are the God of the humble -[2638.40 --> 2643.28] You are the humble King -[2652.46 --> 2668.98] Good morning -[2668.98 --> 2670.10] My name is Eric -[2670.10 --> 2672.24] I am one of the elders here at Emanuel -[2672.24 --> 2674.54] A little bit of a schedule change kids -[2674.54 --> 2676.60] Year up right after I do this prayer -[2676.60 --> 2678.70] We will do children's worship this morning -[2678.70 --> 2683.24] Before I do the family prayer -[2683.24 --> 2685.56] One item that we found out this morning -[2685.56 --> 2687.32] That Fran Skipper's dad -[2687.32 --> 2688.42] Passed away suddenly -[2688.42 --> 2690.70] Recently -[2690.70 --> 2691.34] Yesterday -[2691.34 --> 2691.80] Yeah -[2691.80 --> 2692.48] Friday -[2692.48 --> 2692.94] Friday -[2692.94 --> 2694.68] So our thoughts and prayers -[2694.68 --> 2695.80] Are out to you and your family -[2695.80 --> 2699.46] Join me in prayer this morning -[2699.46 --> 2702.52] Dear God -[2702.52 --> 2704.52] What a wonderful morning -[2704.52 --> 2705.92] And a day to wake up to -[2705.92 --> 2708.68] Another chance to see the beauty -[2708.68 --> 2710.68] Of this creation you have given us -[2710.68 --> 2712.80] Thank you Lord -[2712.80 --> 2714.54] For all the blessings you have given us -[2714.54 --> 2716.28] When we take a moment Lord -[2716.28 --> 2716.92] To reflect -[2716.92 --> 2718.40] We can be grateful for living -[2718.40 --> 2719.48] In this great country -[2719.48 --> 2720.56] Province and city -[2720.56 --> 2722.60] We thank you Lord -[2722.60 --> 2723.30] For this church -[2723.30 --> 2724.26] And the great community -[2724.26 --> 2725.40] We have here at Emanuel -[2725.40 --> 2727.26] Where this past week -[2727.26 --> 2728.32] We could support classes -[2728.32 --> 2729.60] Meetings and share together -[2729.60 --> 2731.40] In our Wednesday prayer service -[2731.40 --> 2733.68] We thank you Lord -[2733.68 --> 2735.06] For this Mexico team -[2735.06 --> 2736.30] That's heading off to Mexico -[2736.30 --> 2737.12] In about a week -[2737.12 --> 2738.74] We thank you for all those -[2738.74 --> 2739.72] Who are volunteering -[2739.72 --> 2741.46] And I ask that you would give them -[2741.46 --> 2742.60] A great trip -[2742.60 --> 2744.40] Where they can spread your word -[2744.40 --> 2745.58] And be a witness to you -[2745.58 --> 2747.74] But we know Lord -[2747.74 --> 2748.90] That not all is perfect -[2748.90 --> 2750.60] And that even in this family -[2750.60 --> 2751.72] Of Emanuel -[2751.72 --> 2752.68] We have concerns -[2752.68 --> 2753.88] We want to bring to you -[2753.88 --> 2755.94] We think of those among us -[2755.94 --> 2756.58] That recently -[2756.58 --> 2758.24] And over a longer period of time -[2758.24 --> 2760.28] Mourn the death of loved ones -[2760.28 --> 2760.70] And that -[2760.70 --> 2761.74] How that absence -[2761.74 --> 2762.76] In their life -[2762.76 --> 2763.72] Is always present -[2763.72 --> 2765.68] We think of those -[2765.68 --> 2766.20] In our midst -[2766.20 --> 2766.88] Who are suffering -[2766.88 --> 2767.52] From physical -[2767.52 --> 2768.86] And mental challenges -[2768.86 --> 2770.82] There are those Lord -[2770.82 --> 2772.10] Who struggle with pain -[2772.10 --> 2773.54] Or discomfort every day -[2773.54 --> 2774.86] And we want to bring -[2774.86 --> 2776.18] Their concerns to you -[2776.18 --> 2778.30] We also think of -[2778.30 --> 2778.88] Sai Visser -[2778.88 --> 2779.98] Who is also going through -[2779.98 --> 2781.16] Treatment for lung cancer -[2781.16 --> 2781.78] At this time -[2781.78 --> 2782.38] And we ask -[2782.38 --> 2783.84] For prayers for him -[2783.84 --> 2786.86] Lord as we wake up -[2786.86 --> 2787.86] To this beautiful morning -[2787.86 --> 2788.52] We are aware -[2788.52 --> 2789.78] That there is much strife -[2789.78 --> 2790.22] And pain -[2790.22 --> 2791.60] In many parts of this world -[2791.60 --> 2793.52] We pray for those in Ukraine -[2793.52 --> 2794.14] Russia -[2794.14 --> 2795.04] Turkey -[2795.04 --> 2795.82] And Syria -[2795.82 --> 2797.68] Just to name a few places -[2797.68 --> 2798.40] That are forefront -[2798.40 --> 2799.50] In the news right now -[2799.50 --> 2801.58] We pray for peace -[2801.58 --> 2802.62] And we pray for those -[2802.62 --> 2803.56] Helping hands -[2803.56 --> 2804.16] That are working -[2804.16 --> 2805.06] To help those -[2805.06 --> 2806.38] Who are in need -[2806.38 --> 2808.28] And who can offer hope -[2808.28 --> 2809.14] To these people -[2809.14 --> 2812.16] Lord we take comfort -[2812.16 --> 2812.72] In the words -[2812.72 --> 2813.74] That we read in the Bible -[2813.74 --> 2815.88] The words from Psalm 121 -[2815.88 --> 2816.96] Offer this comfort -[2816.96 --> 2819.16] I lift up my eyes -[2819.16 --> 2819.92] To the mountains -[2819.92 --> 2821.38] Where does my help -[2821.38 --> 2822.02] Come from -[2822.02 --> 2824.52] My help comes from the Lord -[2824.52 --> 2825.92] The maker of heaven and earth -[2825.92 --> 2828.04] He will not let your foot slip -[2828.04 --> 2829.88] He who watches over you -[2829.88 --> 2830.74] Will not slumber -[2830.74 --> 2832.84] He who watches over us -[2832.84 --> 2834.34] Will neither slumber nor sleep -[2834.34 --> 2836.54] The Lord watches over you -[2836.54 --> 2838.18] The Lord is your shade -[2838.18 --> 2838.98] At your right hand -[2838.98 --> 2841.12] The sun will not harm you by day -[2841.12 --> 2842.22] Nor the moon by night -[2842.22 --> 2843.84] The Lord will keep you -[2843.84 --> 2844.62] From all harm -[2844.62 --> 2846.42] He will watch over your life -[2846.42 --> 2848.12] The Lord will watch over -[2848.12 --> 2849.18] Your coming and going -[2849.18 --> 2850.76] Both now and forevermore -[2850.76 --> 2852.78] Thank you Lord -[2852.78 --> 2854.14] For these comforting words -[2854.14 --> 2855.28] As we go into the world -[2855.28 --> 2855.88] This week -[2855.88 --> 2857.14] Being lights for you -[2857.14 --> 2858.00] Amen -[2858.00 --> 2861.90] Hey children -[2861.90 --> 2862.96] Come on up -[2862.96 --> 2864.82] For some kids corner time -[2864.82 --> 2868.86] Oh that's my spot -[2868.86 --> 2869.32] I think -[2869.32 --> 2871.32] You guys gotta move out -[2871.32 --> 2871.78] Move out -[2871.78 --> 2872.46] Move out -[2872.46 --> 2879.72] How are the kids doing this morning -[2879.72 --> 2881.00] Alright -[2881.00 --> 2883.68] I wasn't here last week -[2883.68 --> 2884.64] But I heard you guys -[2884.64 --> 2885.56] Had a little bit of fun -[2885.56 --> 2887.22] Talking about perseverance -[2887.22 --> 2888.44] Does anybody remember -[2888.44 --> 2889.28] That lesson that -[2889.28 --> 2891.00] Mrs. Lobert was teaching you about -[2891.00 --> 2891.70] I wonder if -[2891.70 --> 2892.58] Did you guys do some -[2892.58 --> 2893.36] Fun activity -[2893.36 --> 2893.86] That I think -[2893.86 --> 2894.90] I kind of would like -[2894.90 --> 2895.58] To be part of -[2895.58 --> 2896.12] What was it -[2896.12 --> 2896.78] What were you doing -[2896.78 --> 2899.00] Burpee competition -[2899.00 --> 2901.02] Alright -[2901.02 --> 2902.20] How did it go -[2902.20 --> 2903.50] Right on -[2903.50 --> 2904.86] Awesome -[2904.86 --> 2906.58] I like doing that -[2906.58 --> 2907.22] Kind of stuff too -[2907.22 --> 2907.96] So maybe you and me -[2907.96 --> 2908.84] Are gonna go at it later -[2908.84 --> 2909.62] How do you feel -[2909.62 --> 2910.00] Yeah -[2910.00 --> 2911.98] Today we're gonna talk -[2911.98 --> 2912.96] About something different -[2912.96 --> 2914.58] In children's worship time -[2914.58 --> 2915.56] Have any of you guys -[2915.56 --> 2917.02] Ever been sad before -[2917.02 --> 2917.60] Yeah -[2917.60 --> 2918.20] Yeah -[2918.20 --> 2919.00] Like maybe -[2919.00 --> 2919.98] Let me give me some examples -[2919.98 --> 2921.04] Like maybe like a -[2921.04 --> 2923.44] Pet is sick -[2923.44 --> 2924.38] Or someone -[2924.38 --> 2925.92] A friend of yours is sick -[2925.92 --> 2927.20] Or somebody's mean to you -[2927.20 --> 2928.38] You're sad -[2928.38 --> 2929.10] Or somebody maybe -[2929.10 --> 2929.96] Passes away -[2929.96 --> 2930.86] That could be too -[2930.86 --> 2932.80] What do you do -[2932.80 --> 2933.74] When you're sad -[2933.74 --> 2934.76] What are some things you do -[2934.76 --> 2935.80] Does anybody got an idea -[2935.80 --> 2936.06] For me -[2936.06 --> 2936.46] What do you do -[2936.46 --> 2936.98] When you're sad -[2936.98 --> 2940.72] Sometimes cry -[2940.72 --> 2941.44] What do you do -[2941.44 --> 2941.96] When you're sad -[2941.96 --> 2946.66] Sometimes you get mad -[2946.66 --> 2946.98] Yeah -[2946.98 --> 2947.78] What do you do -[2947.78 --> 2948.02] When you're -[2948.02 --> 2949.36] What's that -[2949.36 --> 2951.18] You fuss -[2951.18 --> 2952.04] Yeah -[2952.04 --> 2953.68] You get -[2953.68 --> 2954.54] Very angry -[2954.54 --> 2955.32] Well sometimes -[2955.32 --> 2956.24] Some people like -[2956.24 --> 2956.96] Like to cuddle -[2956.96 --> 2957.60] With their mom -[2957.60 --> 2958.28] Or their dad -[2958.28 --> 2959.76] Or maybe have a pet -[2959.76 --> 2960.62] That you like to cuddle -[2960.62 --> 2960.82] With -[2960.82 --> 2961.58] Some people maybe -[2961.58 --> 2962.76] Have like a stuffed animal -[2962.76 --> 2964.12] That you like to cuddle -[2964.12 --> 2964.72] With when you're feeling -[2964.72 --> 2965.34] Kind of sad -[2965.34 --> 2968.02] Can I share with you guys -[2968.02 --> 2969.18] A little secret about me -[2969.18 --> 2971.20] You're not gonna tell -[2971.20 --> 2971.78] Anybody are you -[2971.78 --> 2974.50] Well when I'm sad -[2974.50 --> 2977.78] I have this little sheep -[2977.78 --> 2979.14] That I like to cuddle up -[2979.14 --> 2979.90] With in bed -[2979.90 --> 2980.96] Does anybody have one -[2980.96 --> 2981.40] Of these -[2981.40 --> 2982.14] That they like -[2982.14 --> 2982.80] You got one -[2982.80 --> 2983.22] You got a little -[2983.22 --> 2984.00] Stuffed animal -[2984.00 --> 2985.02] So you and me -[2985.02 --> 2985.60] Are kind of similar -[2985.60 --> 2985.92] That way -[2985.92 --> 2986.86] You got one of these too -[2986.86 --> 2988.50] Okay this is kind of -[2988.50 --> 2989.26] A personal thing -[2989.26 --> 2990.08] So I just don't really -[2990.08 --> 2990.60] Want you guys -[2990.60 --> 2991.36] Telling anybody -[2991.36 --> 2992.38] About this little sheep -[2992.38 --> 2992.70] Of mine -[2992.70 --> 2993.28] You got that -[2993.28 --> 2998.10] Okay -[2998.10 --> 2999.92] We're gonna do the blessing -[2999.92 --> 3000.52] And then we're gonna -[3000.52 --> 3002.16] Go in the back room there -[3002.16 --> 3003.28] We're gonna talk more -[3003.28 --> 3005.06] About how God -[3005.06 --> 3005.88] Can take care of us -[3005.88 --> 3006.54] When we're sad -[3006.54 --> 3008.28] Everybody stand up -[3008.28 --> 3013.44] Ready -[3013.44 --> 3014.74] The -[3014.74 --> 3018.38] And also with you -[3018.38 --> 3027.76] Thanks Eric -[3027.76 --> 3043.08] I wonder if Mr. Eric -[3043.08 --> 3043.92] Knows that we have -[3043.92 --> 3045.22] That exact same stuffy -[3045.22 --> 3045.74] In the nursery -[3045.74 --> 3046.58] Here at church -[3046.58 --> 3054.92] We're gonna -[3054.92 --> 3056.96] Continue in our series -[3056.96 --> 3059.02] Through the book of Romans -[3059.02 --> 3061.10] We're gonna read -[3061.10 --> 3061.98] This morning together -[3061.98 --> 3063.76] From Romans 5 -[3063.76 --> 3065.28] The first 11 verses -[3065.28 --> 3066.32] It will be on the screen -[3066.32 --> 3067.96] Over my shoulder there -[3067.96 --> 3069.12] I encourage you -[3069.12 --> 3069.72] To have a Bible -[3069.72 --> 3070.38] Open it up -[3070.38 --> 3071.86] And keep it open -[3071.86 --> 3073.38] As we'll make reference -[3073.38 --> 3074.20] Throughout -[3074.20 --> 3078.38] Before we read -[3078.38 --> 3078.84] This morning -[3078.84 --> 3080.18] I'd just like to pray -[3080.18 --> 3080.84] Together -[3080.84 --> 3088.44] Heavenly Father -[3088.44 --> 3089.26] We come now -[3089.26 --> 3091.24] To your word -[3091.24 --> 3094.50] And we ask -[3094.50 --> 3094.86] Lord -[3094.86 --> 3095.52] That you would -[3095.52 --> 3098.00] Take these truths -[3098.00 --> 3099.70] And plant them -[3099.70 --> 3100.84] Deep into -[3100.84 --> 3102.50] Our hearts -[3102.50 --> 3105.10] Take these truths -[3105.10 --> 3106.14] And transform -[3106.14 --> 3107.42] Our minds -[3107.42 --> 3108.58] And imaginations -[3108.58 --> 3109.60] By them -[3109.60 --> 3110.68] So that we can -[3110.68 --> 3111.28] See you -[3111.28 --> 3112.00] More clearly -[3112.00 --> 3112.48] At work -[3112.48 --> 3113.42] In our lives -[3113.42 --> 3114.60] And in the world -[3114.60 --> 3115.76] Through your church -[3115.76 --> 3119.70] God we pray -[3119.70 --> 3120.52] That we would -[3120.52 --> 3121.36] Hear today -[3121.36 --> 3122.06] The voice -[3122.06 --> 3122.76] Of Jesus -[3122.76 --> 3124.86] And we would -[3124.86 --> 3125.62] Give him praise -[3125.62 --> 3127.38] In your name -[3127.38 --> 3127.72] Alone -[3127.72 --> 3129.36] Amen -[3129.36 --> 3136.66] We're gonna read -[3136.66 --> 3138.16] Romans 5 -[3138.16 --> 3139.38] Starting at verse 1 -[3139.38 --> 3142.82] Paul writes -[3142.82 --> 3143.74] Therefore -[3143.74 --> 3146.12] Since we have been -[3146.12 --> 3147.60] Justified through faith -[3147.60 --> 3149.14] We have peace -[3149.14 --> 3149.82] With God -[3149.82 --> 3150.74] Through our -[3150.74 --> 3152.48] Lord Jesus Christ -[3152.48 --> 3153.84] Through whom -[3153.84 --> 3155.08] We have gained access -[3155.08 --> 3155.96] By faith -[3155.96 --> 3157.08] Into this grace -[3157.08 --> 3158.22] In which we -[3158.22 --> 3159.08] Now stand -[3159.08 --> 3160.90] And we boast -[3160.90 --> 3161.66] In the hope -[3161.66 --> 3162.70] Of the glory -[3162.70 --> 3163.86] Of God -[3163.86 --> 3166.44] Not only so -[3166.44 --> 3167.40] But we also -[3167.40 --> 3168.48] Glory in our -[3168.48 --> 3169.20] Sufferings -[3169.20 --> 3170.34] Because we know -[3170.34 --> 3171.22] That suffering -[3171.22 --> 3171.94] Produces -[3171.94 --> 3172.98] Perseverance -[3172.98 --> 3174.16] Perseverance -[3174.16 --> 3174.84] Character -[3174.84 --> 3175.86] And character -[3175.86 --> 3176.78] Hope -[3176.78 --> 3179.00] And hope -[3179.00 --> 3180.20] Does not put us -[3180.20 --> 3180.84] To shame -[3180.84 --> 3182.68] Because God's -[3182.68 --> 3183.30] Love has been -[3183.30 --> 3183.82] Poured out -[3183.82 --> 3184.86] Into our hearts -[3184.86 --> 3186.14] Through the Holy Spirit -[3186.14 --> 3187.20] Who has been -[3187.20 --> 3188.06] Given to us -[3188.06 --> 3189.82] You see -[3189.82 --> 3191.26] At just the right -[3191.26 --> 3192.06] Time -[3192.06 --> 3193.30] When we were -[3193.30 --> 3194.30] Still powerless -[3194.30 --> 3195.80] Christ died -[3195.80 --> 3197.14] For the ungodly -[3197.14 --> 3198.84] Very rarely -[3198.84 --> 3199.74] Will anyone die -[3199.74 --> 3200.44] For a righteous -[3200.44 --> 3201.02] Person -[3201.02 --> 3202.00] Though for a -[3202.00 --> 3202.60] Good person -[3202.60 --> 3203.42] Someone might -[3203.42 --> 3204.38] Possibly dare -[3204.38 --> 3204.98] To die -[3204.98 --> 3206.10] But God -[3206.10 --> 3207.06] Demonstrates -[3207.06 --> 3207.86] His love -[3207.86 --> 3209.04] For us -[3209.04 --> 3210.04] In this -[3210.04 --> 3211.84] While we -[3211.84 --> 3212.76] Were still -[3212.76 --> 3213.50] Sinners -[3213.50 --> 3214.46] Christ -[3214.46 --> 3215.40] Died -[3215.40 --> 3216.50] For us -[3216.50 --> 3219.36] Since we -[3219.36 --> 3219.82] Have now -[3219.82 --> 3220.52] Been justified -[3220.52 --> 3221.52] By his blood -[3221.52 --> 3222.48] How much more -[3222.48 --> 3223.40] Shall we be -[3223.40 --> 3224.20] Saved from -[3224.20 --> 3225.00] God's wrath -[3225.00 --> 3225.88] Through him -[3225.88 --> 3227.60] For if -[3227.60 --> 3228.44] While we -[3228.44 --> 3229.24] Were God's -[3229.24 --> 3229.88] Enemies -[3229.88 --> 3230.30] We were -[3230.30 --> 3231.28] Reconciled to -[3231.28 --> 3231.88] Him through -[3231.88 --> 3232.32] The death -[3232.32 --> 3232.96] Of his son -[3232.96 --> 3234.28] How much more -[3234.28 --> 3235.26] Having been -[3235.26 --> 3236.20] Reconciled -[3236.20 --> 3237.08] Shall we be -[3237.08 --> 3237.84] Saved -[3237.84 --> 3238.78] Through his -[3238.78 --> 3239.56] Life -[3239.56 --> 3241.74] Not only -[3241.74 --> 3242.52] Is this -[3242.52 --> 3243.12] So -[3243.12 --> 3243.72] But we -[3243.72 --> 3244.44] Also boast -[3244.44 --> 3245.02] In God -[3245.02 --> 3245.56] Through our -[3245.56 --> 3246.30] Lord Jesus -[3246.30 --> 3246.82] Christ -[3246.82 --> 3247.60] Through whom -[3247.60 --> 3248.14] We have -[3248.14 --> 3249.26] Now received -[3249.26 --> 3250.70] Reconciliation -[3250.70 --> 3252.64] This is the -[3252.64 --> 3253.04] Word of the -[3253.04 --> 3253.28] Lord -[3253.28 --> 3261.86] One of the -[3261.86 --> 3262.60] Things that I -[3262.60 --> 3262.94] Am -[3262.94 --> 3265.20] Aware of -[3265.20 --> 3265.74] As we work -[3265.74 --> 3266.10] Our way -[3266.10 --> 3266.92] Through the -[3266.92 --> 3267.34] Book of -[3267.34 --> 3267.88] Revelation -[3267.88 --> 3269.70] Is that -[3269.70 --> 3270.88] There is -[3270.88 --> 3271.84] Lots of -[3271.84 --> 3272.78] Opportunity -[3272.78 --> 3273.40] Here to -[3273.40 --> 3274.16] Discuss -[3274.16 --> 3276.26] Deep and -[3276.26 --> 3277.92] Difficult -[3277.92 --> 3279.06] Doctrine -[3279.06 --> 3280.60] Ideas -[3280.60 --> 3281.64] About who -[3281.64 --> 3282.44] God is -[3282.44 --> 3283.12] And what -[3283.12 --> 3283.90] He is doing -[3283.90 --> 3284.40] In the -[3284.40 --> 3284.70] World -[3284.70 --> 3285.64] Through Jesus -[3285.64 --> 3286.10] Christ -[3286.10 --> 3286.68] And where -[3286.68 --> 3287.22] History -[3287.22 --> 3288.34] Is ultimately -[3288.34 --> 3288.84] Headed -[3288.84 --> 3290.26] And I -[3290.26 --> 3291.00] Know that -[3291.00 --> 3292.58] For myself -[3292.58 --> 3294.28] The temptation -[3294.28 --> 3295.64] When discussing -[3295.64 --> 3296.32] These things -[3296.32 --> 3297.14] Of doctrine -[3297.14 --> 3297.80] Is to -[3297.80 --> 3298.64] Sort of -[3298.64 --> 3299.58] Stay really -[3299.58 --> 3300.24] Heady -[3300.24 --> 3301.84] And intellectual -[3301.84 --> 3303.10] And to -[3303.10 --> 3304.24] Wrestle with -[3304.24 --> 3305.12] These things -[3305.12 --> 3305.98] At an almost -[3305.98 --> 3306.66] Academic -[3306.66 --> 3307.42] Level -[3307.42 --> 3309.50] What I -[3309.50 --> 3309.82] Would like -[3309.82 --> 3310.86] Us to -[3310.86 --> 3312.06] Remember -[3312.06 --> 3313.52] And see -[3313.52 --> 3314.24] This morning -[3314.24 --> 3314.70] As we -[3314.70 --> 3315.10] Begin -[3315.10 --> 3316.00] Because we -[3316.00 --> 3316.12] Are going -[3316.12 --> 3316.32] To do -[3316.32 --> 3316.70] Some more -[3316.70 --> 3317.26] Doctrine -[3317.26 --> 3317.80] Work -[3317.80 --> 3318.42] Today -[3318.42 --> 3320.78] Is that -[3320.78 --> 3322.66] All -[3322.66 --> 3324.12] Good -[3324.12 --> 3325.58] Theology -[3325.58 --> 3327.34] Leads -[3327.34 --> 3327.92] To -[3327.92 --> 3328.82] Doxology -[3328.82 --> 3330.88] Right -[3330.88 --> 3331.48] So all -[3331.48 --> 3331.86] Good -[3331.86 --> 3332.66] Theology -[3332.66 --> 3333.14] That is -[3333.14 --> 3334.16] The study -[3334.16 --> 3334.94] And knowing -[3334.94 --> 3335.60] Of God -[3335.60 --> 3335.94] And His -[3335.94 --> 3336.26] Word -[3336.26 --> 3337.16] Leads to -[3337.16 --> 3338.06] Doxology -[3338.06 --> 3338.62] Which is -[3338.62 --> 3339.46] Words of -[3339.46 --> 3340.36] Glorifying -[3340.36 --> 3340.84] Which is -[3340.84 --> 3341.52] Singing -[3341.52 --> 3342.44] Praise -[3342.44 --> 3343.30] And in -[3343.30 --> 3343.54] Fact -[3343.54 --> 3344.22] Case in -[3344.22 --> 3344.52] Point -[3344.52 --> 3344.84] If your -[3344.84 --> 3345.08] Bibles -[3345.08 --> 3345.50] Are still -[3345.50 --> 3345.86] Open -[3345.86 --> 3347.86] You can -[3347.86 --> 3348.38] Flip over -[3348.38 --> 3348.68] To the -[3348.68 --> 3349.00] End of -[3349.00 --> 3349.74] Chapter 11 -[3349.74 --> 3350.60] In Romans -[3350.60 --> 3350.94] And we'll -[3350.94 --> 3351.30] Get there -[3351.30 --> 3351.74] Eventually -[3351.74 --> 3352.14] But just -[3352.14 --> 3352.54] To see -[3352.54 --> 3352.78] It -[3352.78 --> 3353.64] Paul has -[3353.64 --> 3354.06] Done the -[3354.06 --> 3354.36] First -[3354.36 --> 3355.64] 11 chapters -[3355.64 --> 3356.22] Of Romans -[3356.22 --> 3356.58] In this -[3356.58 --> 3356.90] Deep -[3356.90 --> 3357.42] Strict -[3357.42 --> 3358.08] And dense -[3358.08 --> 3358.54] Deep -[3358.54 --> 3359.26] Theology -[3359.26 --> 3359.82] He spent -[3359.82 --> 3360.52] Chapters -[3360.52 --> 3360.92] 9 -[3360.92 --> 3361.18] Through -[3361.18 --> 3361.56] 11 -[3361.56 --> 3361.94] Talking -[3361.94 --> 3362.22] About -[3362.22 --> 3362.70] God's -[3362.70 --> 3363.24] Sovereign -[3363.24 --> 3364.00] Election -[3364.00 --> 3364.24] And -[3364.24 --> 3365.00] Predestination -[3365.00 --> 3365.40] And what -[3365.40 --> 3365.66] Is it -[3365.66 --> 3365.96] To do -[3365.96 --> 3366.14] With -[3366.14 --> 3366.28] These -[3366.28 --> 3366.62] People -[3366.62 --> 3366.84] Of -[3366.84 --> 3367.22] Israel -[3367.22 --> 3368.00] It's -[3368.00 --> 3368.56] Lots -[3368.56 --> 3369.08] And it's -[3369.08 --> 3369.74] Hard -[3369.74 --> 3370.08] And it -[3370.08 --> 3370.72] Moves -[3370.72 --> 3371.06] Him -[3371.06 --> 3371.72] But at -[3371.72 --> 3372.16] The end -[3372.16 --> 3372.40] Of -[3372.40 --> 3374.26] Chapter 11 -[3374.26 --> 3375.56] He says -[3375.56 --> 3376.16] In praise -[3376.16 --> 3376.86] Oh the -[3376.86 --> 3377.30] Depths -[3377.30 --> 3377.58] Of the -[3377.58 --> 3377.96] Riches -[3377.96 --> 3378.20] And the -[3378.20 --> 3378.54] Wisdom -[3378.54 --> 3378.80] And the -[3378.80 --> 3379.12] Knowledge -[3379.12 --> 3379.66] Of God -[3379.66 --> 3380.16] How -[3380.16 --> 3381.14] Unsearchable -[3381.14 --> 3381.44] His -[3381.44 --> 3381.94] Judgments -[3381.94 --> 3382.54] And his -[3382.54 --> 3383.06] Paths -[3383.06 --> 3383.34] Beyond -[3383.34 --> 3383.76] Tracing -[3383.76 --> 3383.96] Out -[3383.96 --> 3384.34] He's -[3384.34 --> 3384.86] Singing -[3384.86 --> 3386.36] And who -[3386.36 --> 3386.60] Has -[3386.60 --> 3386.88] Known -[3386.88 --> 3387.06] The -[3387.06 --> 3387.36] Mind -[3387.36 --> 3387.48] Of -[3387.48 --> 3387.56] The -[3387.56 --> 3387.82] Lord -[3387.82 --> 3387.98] Or -[3387.98 --> 3388.18] Who -[3388.18 --> 3388.42] Has -[3388.42 --> 3388.64] Been -[3388.64 --> 3388.86] His -[3388.86 --> 3389.54] Counselor -[3389.54 --> 3390.02] Who -[3390.02 --> 3390.32] Has -[3390.32 --> 3390.92] Ever -[3390.92 --> 3391.20] Given -[3391.20 --> 3391.64] Praise -[3391.64 --> 3391.84] To -[3391.84 --> 3392.14] God -[3392.14 --> 3392.32] That -[3392.32 --> 3392.68] God -[3392.68 --> 3392.88] Should -[3392.88 --> 3393.22] Repay -[3393.22 --> 3393.44] Him -[3393.44 --> 3393.88] For -[3393.88 --> 3394.32] From -[3394.32 --> 3394.72] Him -[3394.72 --> 3395.10] And -[3395.10 --> 3395.54] Through -[3395.54 --> 3395.90] Him -[3395.90 --> 3396.18] And -[3396.18 --> 3396.70] For -[3396.70 --> 3397.06] Him -[3397.06 --> 3397.62] Are -[3397.62 --> 3398.06] All -[3398.06 --> 3398.62] Things -[3398.62 --> 3398.96] And -[3398.96 --> 3399.38] To -[3399.38 --> 3399.90] Him -[3399.90 --> 3400.58] Be -[3400.58 --> 3400.80] The -[3400.80 --> 3401.32] Glory -[3401.32 --> 3402.12] Forever -[3402.12 --> 3403.48] Amen -[3403.48 --> 3405.34] All -[3405.34 --> 3405.58] Good -[3405.58 --> 3406.24] Theology -[3406.24 --> 3407.40] Will -[3407.40 --> 3407.68] Bring -[3407.68 --> 3407.88] Us -[3407.88 --> 3408.06] To -[3408.06 --> 3408.78] Doxology -[3408.78 --> 3409.32] And so -[3409.32 --> 3409.92] My -[3409.92 --> 3410.28] Part -[3410.28 --> 3410.40] Of -[3410.40 --> 3410.54] My -[3410.54 --> 3410.78] Hope -[3410.78 --> 3410.96] For -[3410.96 --> 3411.14] Us -[3411.14 --> 3411.36] This -[3411.36 --> 3411.62] Morning -[3411.62 --> 3413.66] As -[3413.66 --> 3413.84] We -[3413.84 --> 3414.12] Look -[3414.12 --> 3414.50] Again -[3414.50 --> 3414.68] At -[3414.68 --> 3414.86] This -[3414.86 --> 3415.32] Doctrine -[3415.32 --> 3415.48] Of -[3415.48 --> 3416.34] Justification -[3416.34 --> 3418.68] We -[3418.68 --> 3418.82] Will -[3418.82 --> 3419.42] Get -[3419.42 --> 3419.60] To -[3419.60 --> 3419.76] A -[3419.76 --> 3420.20] Place -[3420.20 --> 3421.04] At -[3421.04 --> 3421.14] The -[3421.14 --> 3421.46] End -[3421.46 --> 3421.68] Where -[3421.68 --> 3421.84] We -[3421.84 --> 3422.12] Go -[3422.12 --> 3423.56] How -[3423.56 --> 3424.60] Awesome -[3424.60 --> 3425.62] Is -[3425.62 --> 3425.96] Our -[3425.96 --> 3426.42] God -[3426.42 --> 3427.26] How -[3427.26 --> 3428.00] Good -[3428.00 --> 3428.66] Is -[3428.66 --> 3428.98] Our -[3428.98 --> 3429.22] God -[3429.22 --> 3429.48] How -[3429.48 --> 3430.20] Amazing -[3430.20 --> 3431.08] Is -[3431.08 --> 3431.34] His -[3431.34 --> 3431.76] Grace -[3431.76 --> 3432.08] And so -[3432.08 --> 3432.20] That -[3432.20 --> 3432.30] When -[3432.30 --> 3432.44] We -[3432.44 --> 3432.64] Come -[3432.64 --> 3432.80] To -[3432.80 --> 3432.96] The -[3432.96 --> 3433.34] Table -[3433.34 --> 3433.82] And -[3433.82 --> 3433.96] When -[3433.96 --> 3434.12] We -[3434.12 --> 3434.60] Sing -[3434.60 --> 3435.42] Afterwards -[3435.42 --> 3435.72] We -[3435.72 --> 3435.96] Might -[3435.96 --> 3436.52] Sing -[3436.52 --> 3437.20] With -[3437.20 --> 3437.36] An -[3437.36 --> 3437.84] Extra -[3437.84 --> 3438.88] Measure -[3438.88 --> 3439.76] Of -[3439.76 --> 3440.76] Boldness -[3440.76 --> 3441.12] With -[3441.12 --> 3441.24] An -[3441.24 --> 3441.52] Extra -[3441.52 --> 3441.94] Measure -[3441.94 --> 3442.52] Of -[3442.52 --> 3444.16] Appreciation -[3444.16 --> 3444.78] For -[3444.78 --> 3444.96] What -[3444.96 --> 3445.28] God -[3445.28 --> 3445.72] Has -[3445.72 --> 3445.98] Done -[3445.98 --> 3447.22] And so -[3447.22 --> 3448.12] As -[3448.12 --> 3448.24] We -[3448.24 --> 3448.42] Dig -[3448.42 --> 3448.58] In -[3448.58 --> 3448.86] Now -[3448.86 --> 3450.22] Press -[3450.22 --> 3450.62] In -[3450.62 --> 3451.00] With -[3451.00 --> 3451.32] Me -[3451.32 --> 3452.06] So -[3452.06 --> 3452.24] That -[3452.24 --> 3452.38] We -[3452.38 --> 3452.62] Can -[3452.62 --> 3452.84] Get -[3452.84 --> 3453.22] To -[3453.22 --> 3453.90] Our -[3453.90 --> 3454.80] Doxology -[3454.80 --> 3456.06] Together -[3456.06 --> 3458.82] Our -[3458.82 --> 3459.08] Text -[3459.08 --> 3459.66] Begins -[3459.66 --> 3461.12] With -[3461.12 --> 3461.72] A -[3461.72 --> 3462.04] Word -[3462.04 --> 3462.50] Pair -[3462.50 --> 3463.98] Therefore -[3463.98 --> 3465.06] Since -[3465.06 --> 3466.84] Therefore -[3466.84 --> 3467.70] Since -[3467.70 --> 3468.00] We -[3470.76 --> 3474.56] Therefore -[3474.56 --> 3475.28] Since -[3475.28 --> 3475.56] That -[3475.56 --> 3476.00] Means -[3476.00 --> 3476.82] Paul -[3476.82 --> 3477.18] Is -[3477.18 --> 3478.12] Moving -[3478.12 --> 3478.66] To -[3478.66 --> 3478.84] The -[3478.84 --> 3479.62] Conclusions -[3479.62 --> 3479.92] And -[3479.92 --> 3480.08] The -[3480.08 --> 3480.94] Implications -[3480.94 --> 3481.56] Of -[3481.56 --> 3481.72] What -[3481.72 --> 3481.94] Has -[3481.94 --> 3482.18] Come -[3482.18 --> 3482.64] Before -[3482.64 --> 3483.68] Right -[3483.68 --> 3483.82] So -[3483.82 --> 3483.92] The -[3483.92 --> 3484.08] Last -[3484.08 --> 3484.36] Number -[3484.36 --> 3484.54] Of -[3484.54 --> 3484.80] Weeks -[3484.80 --> 3484.92] That -[3484.92 --> 3485.04] We -[3485.04 --> 3485.22] Have -[3485.22 --> 3485.36] Been -[3485.36 --> 3485.58] In -[3485.58 --> 3486.36] Wrestling -[3486.36 --> 3486.76] Paul -[3486.76 --> 3486.94] Is -[3486.94 --> 3487.66] Moving -[3487.66 --> 3488.32] To -[3488.32 --> 3488.54] That -[3488.54 --> 3488.76] This -[3488.76 --> 3488.92] Is -[3488.92 --> 3489.22] The -[3489.22 --> 3490.30] The -[3490.30 --> 3491.30] Logical -[3491.30 --> 3492.12] Conclusion -[3492.12 --> 3492.56] Of -[3492.56 --> 3492.68] It -[3492.68 --> 3493.02] All -[3493.02 --> 3493.38] Right -[3493.38 --> 3495.98] Now -[3495.98 --> 3496.44] To -[3496.44 --> 3496.98] Summarize -[3496.98 --> 3497.30] That -[3497.30 --> 3497.60] Really -[3497.60 --> 3498.06] Quickly -[3498.06 --> 3498.46] Because -[3498.46 --> 3499.16] I Know -[3499.16 --> 3499.34] That -[3499.34 --> 3499.50] Not -[3499.50 --> 3499.86] Everyone -[3499.86 --> 3500.84] Thinks -[3500.84 --> 3501.00] In -[3501.00 --> 3501.14] The -[3501.14 --> 3501.36] Same -[3501.36 --> 3501.56] Way -[3501.56 --> 3501.70] That -[3501.70 --> 3501.90] I -[3501.90 --> 3502.10] Do -[3502.10 --> 3502.30] And -[3502.30 --> 3502.46] Some -[3502.46 --> 3502.56] Of -[3502.56 --> 3502.68] Us -[3502.68 --> 3502.84] Like -[3502.84 --> 3502.98] To -[3502.98 --> 3503.32] See -[3503.32 --> 3503.94] Things -[3503.94 --> 3505.08] Sometimes -[3505.08 --> 3505.28] It -[3505.28 --> 3505.44] Helps -[3505.44 --> 3505.54] To -[3505.54 --> 3505.64] Have -[3505.64 --> 3505.76] A -[3505.76 --> 3506.10] Picture -[3506.10 --> 3506.46] And -[3506.46 --> 3506.56] So -[3506.56 --> 3506.60] I -[3506.60 --> 3506.74] Got -[3506.74 --> 3506.84] A -[3506.84 --> 3507.18] Slide -[3507.18 --> 3507.40] We're -[3507.40 --> 3507.48] Going -[3507.48 --> 3507.56] To -[3507.56 --> 3507.76] Throw -[3507.76 --> 3508.04] Up -[3508.04 --> 3509.36] There -[3509.36 --> 3509.46] It -[3509.46 --> 3509.76] Is -[3509.76 --> 3511.12] Okay -[3511.12 --> 3512.64] What -[3512.64 --> 3512.90] We -[3512.90 --> 3513.14] Have -[3513.14 --> 3513.78] Seen -[3513.78 --> 3514.42] Right -[3514.42 --> 3514.68] Is -[3514.68 --> 3514.94] That -[3514.94 --> 3516.16] Justification -[3516.16 --> 3516.48] That -[3516.48 --> 3516.68] Big -[3516.68 --> 3516.90] Word -[3516.90 --> 3517.02] In -[3517.02 --> 3517.14] The -[3517.14 --> 3517.38] Middle -[3517.38 --> 3518.10] Right -[3518.10 --> 3518.50] Comes -[3518.50 --> 3518.94] To -[3518.94 --> 3519.52] Us -[3519.52 --> 3520.76] Through -[3520.76 --> 3521.26] Faith -[3521.26 --> 3521.42] And -[3521.42 --> 3521.52] So -[3521.52 --> 3522.26] Justification -[3522.26 --> 3522.56] You -[3522.56 --> 3522.72] Will -[3522.72 --> 3523.02] Remember -[3523.02 --> 3523.22] With -[3523.22 --> 3523.34] The -[3523.34 --> 3523.78] Example -[3523.78 --> 3523.94] Of -[3523.94 --> 3524.36] Abraham -[3524.36 --> 3524.94] And -[3524.94 --> 3525.24] David -[3525.24 --> 3525.48] Is -[3525.48 --> 3525.98] Being -[3525.98 --> 3526.72] Credited -[3526.72 --> 3526.98] A -[3526.98 --> 3527.64] Righteousness -[3527.64 --> 3527.86] That -[3527.86 --> 3528.00] Is -[3528.00 --> 3528.26] Not -[3528.26 --> 3528.46] Your -[3528.46 --> 3528.78] Own -[3528.78 --> 3529.06] Being -[3529.06 --> 3529.82] Declared -[3529.82 --> 3530.64] Righteous -[3530.64 --> 3530.84] In -[3530.84 --> 3530.98] The -[3530.98 --> 3531.16] Sight -[3531.16 --> 3531.30] Of -[3531.30 --> 3531.58] God -[3531.58 --> 3532.12] Right -[3532.12 --> 3532.68] Justification -[3532.68 --> 3533.36] Comes -[3533.36 --> 3533.62] As -[3533.62 --> 3533.78] The -[3533.78 --> 3534.20] Result -[3534.20 --> 3534.56] Of -[3534.56 --> 3535.12] Faith -[3535.12 --> 3535.34] But -[3535.34 --> 3536.16] Faith -[3536.16 --> 3536.40] We -[3536.40 --> 3536.54] Have -[3536.54 --> 3536.82] Seen -[3536.82 --> 3537.00] Is -[3537.00 --> 3537.14] A -[3537.14 --> 3537.48] Gift -[3537.48 --> 3538.40] And -[3538.40 --> 3538.54] So -[3538.54 --> 3538.88] Before -[3538.88 --> 3539.32] Faith -[3539.32 --> 3539.68] Yet -[3539.68 --> 3540.48] Is -[3540.48 --> 3541.34] Grace -[3541.34 --> 3542.72] And -[3542.72 --> 3542.84] So -[3542.84 --> 3543.60] Justification -[3543.60 --> 3544.28] Comes -[3544.28 --> 3544.58] By -[3544.58 --> 3545.08] Grace -[3545.08 --> 3545.76] Through -[3545.76 --> 3546.84] Faith -[3546.84 --> 3547.70] And -[3547.70 --> 3547.84] Then -[3547.84 --> 3548.24] Out -[3548.24 --> 3548.50] Of -[3548.50 --> 3549.38] Justification -[3549.38 --> 3550.10] This -[3550.10 --> 3550.22] Is -[3550.22 --> 3550.34] Where -[3550.34 --> 3550.52] We're -[3550.52 --> 3550.62] Going -[3550.62 --> 3550.70] To -[3550.70 --> 3550.90] Live -[3550.90 --> 3551.40] Today -[3551.40 --> 3551.98] We -[3551.98 --> 3552.16] Can -[3552.16 --> 3552.52] See -[3552.52 --> 3553.06] Two -[3553.06 --> 3553.86] Things -[3553.86 --> 3556.00] Peace -[3556.00 --> 3556.98] With -[3556.98 --> 3557.48] God -[3557.48 --> 3558.32] And -[3558.32 --> 3558.66] Hope -[3558.66 --> 3559.46] In -[3559.46 --> 3559.60] The -[3559.60 --> 3559.98] Glory -[3559.98 --> 3560.56] Of -[3560.56 --> 3560.94] God -[3560.94 --> 3561.98] That's -[3561.98 --> 3562.08] The -[3562.08 --> 3562.24] Sort -[3562.24 --> 3562.34] Of -[3562.34 --> 3562.56] Big -[3562.56 --> 3563.04] Idea -[3563.04 --> 3563.40] For -[3563.40 --> 3563.78] Us -[3563.78 --> 3564.66] This -[3564.66 --> 3565.02] Morning -[3565.02 --> 3565.52] Right -[3565.52 --> 3565.68] That -[3565.68 --> 3565.82] The -[3565.82 --> 3566.20] Banner -[3566.20 --> 3566.52] That -[3566.52 --> 3566.64] We're -[3566.64 --> 3566.74] Going -[3566.74 --> 3566.82] To -[3566.82 --> 3567.06] Work -[3567.06 --> 3567.42] Under -[3567.42 --> 3568.16] Today -[3568.16 --> 3569.06] Right -[3569.06 --> 3569.64] Since -[3569.64 --> 3570.66] Justification -[3570.66 --> 3571.36] Is -[3571.36 --> 3571.74] By -[3571.74 --> 3572.28] Grace -[3572.28 --> 3572.74] Through -[3572.74 --> 3573.62] Faith -[3573.62 --> 3574.24] The -[3574.24 --> 3574.82] Believer -[3574.82 --> 3576.20] Has -[3576.20 --> 3576.64] Peace -[3576.64 --> 3576.90] With -[3576.90 --> 3577.36] God -[3577.36 --> 3577.92] And -[3577.92 --> 3578.38] Hope -[3578.38 --> 3579.08] In -[3579.08 --> 3579.24] The -[3579.24 --> 3579.66] Glory -[3579.66 --> 3580.58] Of -[3580.58 --> 3580.94] God -[3580.94 --> 3581.90] So -[3581.90 --> 3582.26] Since -[3582.26 --> 3582.58] This -[3582.58 --> 3582.96] Journey -[3582.96 --> 3583.56] Is -[3583.56 --> 3584.12] What -[3584.12 --> 3584.92] Is -[3584.92 --> 3585.26] True -[3585.26 --> 3585.50] For -[3585.50 --> 3585.82] Those -[3585.82 --> 3585.98] Who -[3585.98 --> 3586.44] Believe -[3586.44 --> 3587.12] We -[3587.12 --> 3587.38] Now -[3587.38 --> 3587.72] End -[3587.72 --> 3588.18] And -[3588.18 --> 3588.44] Come -[3588.44 --> 3588.76] To -[3588.76 --> 3589.22] Peace -[3589.22 --> 3589.52] With -[3589.52 --> 3589.94] God -[3589.94 --> 3590.60] And -[3590.60 --> 3590.92] Hope -[3590.92 --> 3591.24] In -[3591.24 --> 3591.36] The -[3591.36 --> 3591.70] Glory -[3591.70 --> 3592.54] Of -[3592.54 --> 3592.88] God -[3592.88 --> 3593.74] So -[3593.74 --> 3593.90] Let's -[3593.90 --> 3594.04] Start -[3594.04 --> 3594.18] With -[3594.18 --> 3594.46] Number -[3594.46 --> 3594.72] One -[3594.72 --> 3594.90] The -[3594.90 --> 3595.12] First -[3595.12 --> 3595.30] One -[3595.30 --> 3595.46] There -[3595.46 --> 3596.20] Peace -[3596.20 --> 3596.54] With -[3596.54 --> 3596.86] God -[3596.86 --> 3597.86] This -[3597.86 --> 3598.10] Verse -[3598.10 --> 3598.40] One -[3598.40 --> 3599.10] Since -[3599.10 --> 3599.28] We -[3599.28 --> 3599.40] Have -[3599.40 --> 3599.54] Been -[3599.54 --> 3600.16] Justified -[3600.16 --> 3600.42] Through -[3600.42 --> 3600.80] Faith -[3600.80 --> 3601.06] We -[3601.06 --> 3601.26] Have -[3601.26 --> 3601.72] Peace -[3601.72 --> 3602.10] With -[3602.10 --> 3602.58] God -[3602.58 --> 3602.92] Through -[3602.92 --> 3603.22] Our -[3603.22 --> 3603.64] Lord -[3603.64 --> 3604.24] Jesus -[3604.24 --> 3605.20] Christ -[3605.20 --> 3607.12] Now -[3607.12 --> 3607.78] At -[3607.78 --> 3607.88] The -[3607.88 --> 3608.20] Outset -[3608.20 --> 3608.36] I -[3608.36 --> 3608.46] Want -[3608.46 --> 3608.54] To -[3608.54 --> 3608.88] Acknowledge -[3608.88 --> 3609.10] That -[3609.10 --> 3609.70] Sometimes -[3609.70 --> 3610.90] We -[3610.90 --> 3611.22] Get -[3611.22 --> 3611.50] This -[3611.50 --> 3611.90] Wrong -[3611.90 --> 3613.50] Because -[3613.50 --> 3613.74] We -[3613.74 --> 3614.04] Think -[3614.04 --> 3614.22] Of -[3614.22 --> 3614.80] Peace -[3614.80 --> 3616.22] Like -[3616.22 --> 3617.20] Serenity -[3617.20 --> 3618.58] Right -[3618.58 --> 3618.72] We -[3618.72 --> 3618.90] Think -[3618.90 --> 3619.08] Of -[3619.08 --> 3619.48] Peace -[3619.48 --> 3619.88] Like -[3619.88 --> 3620.68] Non -[3620.68 --> 3621.54] Anxiousness -[3621.54 --> 3621.84] Or -[3621.84 --> 3622.46] Not -[3622.46 --> 3622.82] Being -[3622.82 --> 3623.38] Sad -[3623.38 --> 3623.58] We -[3623.58 --> 3623.80] Think -[3623.80 --> 3623.98] Of -[3623.98 --> 3624.38] Peace -[3624.38 --> 3624.84] Like -[3624.84 --> 3625.00] A -[3625.00 --> 3625.46] Calm -[3625.46 --> 3625.74] That -[3625.74 --> 3626.44] Overcomes -[3626.44 --> 3626.90] Us -[3626.90 --> 3627.70] A -[3627.70 --> 3628.16] Sort -[3628.16 --> 3628.28] Of -[3628.28 --> 3628.52] Psalm -[3628.52 --> 3629.22] 46 -[3629.22 --> 3630.04] Be -[3630.04 --> 3630.52] Still -[3630.52 --> 3630.80] And -[3630.80 --> 3631.04] Know -[3631.04 --> 3631.24] That -[3631.24 --> 3631.48] I -[3631.48 --> 3631.72] Am -[3631.72 --> 3632.18] God -[3632.18 --> 3633.18] Right -[3633.18 --> 3633.40] That -[3633.40 --> 3633.72] Kind -[3633.72 --> 3633.90] Of -[3633.90 --> 3634.24] Peace -[3634.24 --> 3634.80] And -[3634.80 --> 3635.18] Let -[3635.18 --> 3635.26] Me -[3635.26 --> 3635.44] Be -[3635.44 --> 3635.76] Real -[3635.76 --> 3636.12] That -[3636.12 --> 3636.36] Kind -[3636.36 --> 3636.50] Of -[3636.50 --> 3636.72] Peace -[3636.72 --> 3636.88] Is -[3636.88 --> 3637.20] Real -[3637.20 --> 3638.10] Right -[3638.10 --> 3638.22] That -[3638.22 --> 3638.42] Kind -[3638.42 --> 3638.52] Of -[3638.52 --> 3638.72] Peace -[3638.72 --> 3639.18] Exists -[3639.18 --> 3639.34] And -[3639.34 --> 3639.48] That -[3639.48 --> 3639.60] Kind -[3639.60 --> 3639.72] Of -[3639.72 --> 3639.90] Peace -[3639.90 --> 3640.24] Comes -[3640.24 --> 3640.78] From -[3640.78 --> 3641.16] God -[3641.16 --> 3641.60] But -[3641.60 --> 3641.74] The -[3641.74 --> 3642.86] Bible -[3642.86 --> 3643.22] More -[3643.22 --> 3643.96] Regularly -[3643.96 --> 3644.40] Calls -[3644.40 --> 3644.70] That -[3644.70 --> 3645.06] The -[3645.06 --> 3645.46] Peace -[3645.46 --> 3646.08] Of -[3646.08 --> 3647.10] God -[3647.10 --> 3648.52] Right -[3648.52 --> 3648.76] That's -[3648.76 --> 3649.56] Philippians -[3649.56 --> 3649.94] 4 -[3649.94 --> 3650.26] Verse -[3650.26 --> 3650.52] 6 -[3650.52 --> 3650.68] And -[3650.68 --> 3650.96] 7 -[3650.96 --> 3652.04] Which -[3652.04 --> 3652.32] Says -[3652.32 --> 3652.98] Do -[3652.98 --> 3653.20] Not -[3653.20 --> 3653.42] Be -[3653.42 --> 3653.94] Anxious -[3653.94 --> 3654.34] About -[3654.34 --> 3654.90] Anything -[3654.90 --> 3655.80] But -[3655.80 --> 3655.92] In -[3655.92 --> 3656.20] Every -[3656.20 --> 3656.98] Circumstance -[3656.98 --> 3657.22] By -[3657.22 --> 3657.56] Prayer -[3657.56 --> 3657.82] And -[3657.82 --> 3658.24] Petition -[3658.24 --> 3658.50] With -[3658.50 --> 3658.98] Thanksgiving -[3658.98 --> 3659.70] Present -[3659.70 --> 3659.98] Your -[3659.98 --> 3660.42] Requests -[3660.42 --> 3660.68] To -[3660.68 --> 3661.06] God -[3661.06 --> 3661.64] And -[3661.64 --> 3661.84] The -[3661.84 --> 3662.38] Peace -[3662.38 --> 3662.72] Of -[3662.72 --> 3663.22] God -[3663.22 --> 3663.86] Which -[3663.86 --> 3664.38] Transcends -[3664.38 --> 3664.70] All -[3664.70 --> 3665.34] Understanding -[3665.34 --> 3666.08] Will -[3666.08 --> 3666.42] Guard -[3666.42 --> 3666.64] Your -[3666.64 --> 3667.04] Hearts -[3667.04 --> 3667.58] And -[3667.58 --> 3667.72] Your -[3667.72 --> 3668.32] Minds -[3668.32 --> 3668.52] In -[3668.52 --> 3668.84] Christ -[3668.84 --> 3669.24] Jesus -[3669.24 --> 3671.26] That -[3671.26 --> 3671.66] Kind -[3671.66 --> 3671.86] Of -[3671.86 --> 3672.28] Peace -[3672.28 --> 3672.72] Is -[3672.72 --> 3673.34] Very -[3673.34 --> 3674.52] Real -[3674.52 --> 3674.94] And -[3674.94 --> 3675.12] I -[3675.12 --> 3675.52] Pray -[3675.52 --> 3675.74] That -[3675.74 --> 3675.88] You -[3675.88 --> 3676.68] Experience -[3676.68 --> 3677.24] That -[3677.24 --> 3677.70] In -[3677.70 --> 3677.86] Your -[3677.86 --> 3678.24] Life -[3678.24 --> 3679.40] It -[3679.40 --> 3679.76] Was -[3679.76 --> 3680.06] Mentioned -[3680.06 --> 3680.44] In -[3680.44 --> 3680.80] Eric's -[3680.80 --> 3681.00] Prayer -[3681.00 --> 3681.20] We -[3681.20 --> 3681.34] Had -[3681.34 --> 3681.74] A -[3681.74 --> 3682.18] Prayer -[3682.18 --> 3682.58] Service -[3682.58 --> 3682.86] Here -[3682.86 --> 3683.06] On -[3683.06 --> 3683.40] Wednesday -[3683.40 --> 3683.68] Night -[3683.68 --> 3683.84] And -[3683.84 --> 3683.96] I -[3683.96 --> 3684.10] Gotta -[3684.10 --> 3684.42] Tell -[3684.42 --> 3684.70] You -[3684.70 --> 3686.02] God -[3686.02 --> 3686.26] Was -[3686.26 --> 3686.68] Here -[3686.68 --> 3687.70] God -[3687.70 --> 3687.96] Moved -[3687.96 --> 3688.08] Him -[3688.08 --> 3688.26] We -[3688.26 --> 3688.40] Were -[3688.40 --> 3688.58] A -[3688.58 --> 3688.90] Small -[3688.90 --> 3689.26] Group -[3689.26 --> 3689.50] But -[3689.50 --> 3689.66] It -[3689.66 --> 3689.80] Was -[3689.80 --> 3689.96] The -[3689.96 --> 3690.30] Right -[3690.30 --> 3690.74] Group -[3690.74 --> 3691.18] And -[3691.18 --> 3691.30] There -[3691.30 --> 3691.40] Was -[3691.40 --> 3691.58] A -[3691.58 --> 3691.88] Sense -[3691.88 --> 3692.10] Of -[3692.10 --> 3692.74] Peace -[3692.74 --> 3693.58] That -[3693.58 --> 3694.12] Pervaded -[3694.12 --> 3694.46] That -[3694.46 --> 3695.18] Evening -[3695.18 --> 3695.28] And -[3695.28 --> 3695.46] A -[3695.46 --> 3695.70] Sense -[3695.70 --> 3695.86] Of -[3695.86 --> 3696.28] Peace -[3696.28 --> 3696.48] That -[3696.48 --> 3696.62] We -[3696.62 --> 3696.94] Left -[3696.94 --> 3697.12] With -[3697.12 --> 3697.40] Because -[3697.40 --> 3697.94] In -[3697.94 --> 3698.08] The -[3698.08 --> 3698.34] Midst -[3698.34 --> 3698.50] Of -[3698.50 --> 3698.64] Our -[3698.64 --> 3699.40] Trials -[3699.40 --> 3699.62] In -[3699.62 --> 3699.72] The -[3699.72 --> 3699.94] Midst -[3699.94 --> 3700.06] Of -[3700.06 --> 3700.18] The -[3700.18 --> 3700.42] Things -[3700.42 --> 3700.58] That -[3700.58 --> 3700.66] We -[3700.66 --> 3701.06] Share -[3701.06 --> 3701.46] Together -[3701.46 --> 3701.88] Our -[3701.88 --> 3702.52] Tribulations -[3702.52 --> 3702.80] In -[3702.80 --> 3702.90] The -[3702.90 --> 3703.12] Midst -[3703.12 --> 3703.22] Of -[3703.22 --> 3703.32] Our -[3712.18 --> 3712.30] And -[3712.30 --> 3712.40] I -[3712.40 --> 3712.72] Know -[3712.72 --> 3715.00] That -[3715.00 --> 3715.14] For -[3715.14 --> 3715.34] Some -[3715.34 --> 3715.50] Of -[3715.50 --> 3715.70] You -[3715.70 --> 3716.62] It's -[3716.62 --> 3716.74] Been -[3716.74 --> 3716.88] A -[3716.88 --> 3717.14] Week -[3717.14 --> 3718.50] And -[3718.50 --> 3718.64] For -[3718.64 --> 3718.84] Some -[3718.84 --> 3718.96] Of -[3718.96 --> 3719.08] You -[3719.08 --> 3719.26] It's -[3719.26 --> 3719.34] Been -[3719.34 --> 3719.48] A -[3719.48 --> 3719.78] Month -[3719.78 --> 3720.14] Or -[3720.14 --> 3720.24] It's -[3720.24 --> 3720.32] Been -[3720.32 --> 3720.42] A -[3720.42 --> 3720.68] Year -[3720.68 --> 3720.92] It's -[3720.92 --> 3721.02] Been -[3721.02 --> 3721.18] A -[3721.18 --> 3721.56] Season -[3721.56 --> 3722.02] Of -[3722.02 --> 3722.24] Life -[3722.24 --> 3722.52] It's -[3722.52 --> 3722.66] Been -[3722.66 --> 3722.80] A -[3722.80 --> 3723.44] Lifetime -[3723.44 --> 3724.78] Of -[3724.78 --> 3725.34] Trauma -[3725.34 --> 3725.58] Or -[3725.58 --> 3726.28] Darkness -[3726.28 --> 3726.84] And -[3726.84 --> 3727.42] Hardship -[3727.42 --> 3727.62] Of -[3727.62 --> 3728.60] Evil -[3728.60 --> 3728.88] And -[3728.88 --> 3729.64] Attacks -[3729.64 --> 3730.08] By -[3730.08 --> 3730.26] The -[3730.26 --> 3730.58] Devil -[3730.58 --> 3731.76] And -[3731.76 --> 3731.98] This -[3731.98 --> 3732.30] Peace -[3732.30 --> 3732.50] Of -[3732.50 --> 3733.04] God -[3733.04 --> 3734.10] Remains -[3734.10 --> 3736.20] But -[3736.20 --> 3736.32] I -[3736.32 --> 3736.56] Also -[3736.56 --> 3736.74] Know -[3736.74 --> 3736.90] That -[3736.90 --> 3737.08] Some -[3737.08 --> 3737.22] Of -[3737.22 --> 3737.46] You -[3737.46 --> 3738.72] Hung -[3738.72 --> 3739.00] For -[3739.00 --> 3739.22] That -[3739.22 --> 3739.62] Peace -[3739.62 --> 3740.50] And -[3740.50 --> 3740.82] Haven't -[3740.82 --> 3741.08] Felt -[3741.08 --> 3741.26] It -[3741.26 --> 3741.64] And -[3741.64 --> 3742.20] Don't -[3742.20 --> 3742.44] Know -[3742.44 --> 3742.66] It -[3742.66 --> 3745.64] And -[3745.64 --> 3745.76] I -[3745.76 --> 3745.92] Pray -[3745.92 --> 3746.08] That -[3746.08 --> 3746.18] You -[3746.18 --> 3746.50] Find -[3746.50 --> 3746.70] It -[3746.70 --> 3749.32] But -[3749.32 --> 3749.56] That's -[3749.56 --> 3749.68] Not -[3749.68 --> 3749.82] The -[3749.82 --> 3750.00] Kind -[3750.00 --> 3750.14] Of -[3750.14 --> 3750.36] Peace -[3750.36 --> 3750.56] That -[3750.56 --> 3750.72] Paul -[3750.72 --> 3750.82] Is -[3750.82 --> 3751.18] Talking -[3751.18 --> 3751.58] About -[3751.58 --> 3752.38] In -[3752.38 --> 3752.52] Our -[3752.52 --> 3752.82] Text -[3752.82 --> 3753.04] In -[3753.04 --> 3753.32] Romans -[3753.32 --> 3753.74] 5 -[3753.74 --> 3754.86] That's -[3754.86 --> 3755.06] A -[3755.06 --> 3755.26] More -[3755.26 --> 3756.22] Subjective -[3756.22 --> 3757.16] Peace -[3757.16 --> 3757.44] Because -[3757.44 --> 3757.58] I -[3757.58 --> 3757.78] Know -[3757.78 --> 3758.02] That -[3758.02 --> 3758.22] You -[3758.22 --> 3758.54] Don't -[3758.54 --> 3758.90] Always -[3758.90 --> 3759.48] Feel -[3759.48 --> 3759.92] It -[3759.92 --> 3760.78] And -[3760.78 --> 3760.92] That -[3760.92 --> 3761.06] Our -[3761.06 --> 3761.66] Experience -[3761.66 --> 3761.98] Of -[3761.98 --> 3762.14] That -[3762.14 --> 3762.48] Peace -[3762.48 --> 3763.32] Often -[3763.32 --> 3763.62] And -[3763.62 --> 3763.78] Is -[3763.78 --> 3764.32] Easily -[3764.32 --> 3765.36] Determined -[3765.36 --> 3765.64] By -[3765.64 --> 3765.88] Our -[3765.88 --> 3766.92] Perception -[3766.92 --> 3767.66] Of -[3767.66 --> 3767.90] What's -[3767.90 --> 3768.32] Happening -[3768.32 --> 3768.54] In -[3768.54 --> 3768.88] Life -[3768.88 --> 3770.48] Right -[3770.48 --> 3770.72] That's -[3770.72 --> 3770.80] What -[3770.82 --> 3771.16] I Mean -[3771.16 --> 3771.36] When -[3771.36 --> 3771.50] I -[3771.50 --> 3771.78] Say -[3771.78 --> 3772.26] The -[3772.26 --> 3772.60] Peace -[3772.60 --> 3773.06] Of -[3773.06 --> 3773.52] God -[3773.52 --> 3773.84] Is -[3773.84 --> 3774.76] Subjective -[3774.76 --> 3776.18] But -[3776.18 --> 3776.64] Romans -[3776.64 --> 3777.30] 5 -[3777.30 --> 3777.80] Peace -[3777.80 --> 3778.56] With -[3778.56 --> 3779.18] God -[3779.18 --> 3779.92] Isn't -[3779.92 --> 3780.38] That -[3780.38 --> 3781.92] It's -[3781.92 --> 3782.80] Objective -[3782.80 --> 3784.48] Right -[3784.48 --> 3786.38] Peace -[3786.38 --> 3786.88] With -[3786.88 --> 3787.46] God -[3787.46 --> 3787.84] Is -[3787.84 --> 3788.32] Peace -[3788.32 --> 3788.66] In -[3788.66 --> 3789.74] Relationship -[3789.74 --> 3790.48] To -[3790.48 --> 3790.92] God -[3790.92 --> 3792.32] Peace -[3792.32 --> 3792.70] With -[3792.70 --> 3793.14] God -[3793.14 --> 3793.40] Is -[3793.40 --> 3793.76] True -[3793.76 --> 3794.24] Whether -[3794.24 --> 3794.66] Or -[3794.66 --> 3795.10] Not -[3795.10 --> 3795.40] You -[3795.40 --> 3796.18] Feel -[3796.18 --> 3796.48] It -[3796.48 --> 3796.94] God -[3796.94 --> 3797.94] God -[3797.94 --> 3798.04] Now -[3798.04 --> 3798.32] That's -[3798.32 --> 3798.50] The -[3798.50 --> 3799.06] Majesty -[3799.06 --> 3799.48] Of -[3799.48 --> 3799.68] This -[3799.68 --> 3800.22] Doctrine -[3800.22 --> 3800.60] Of -[3800.60 --> 3801.32] Justification -[3801.32 --> 3801.56] By -[3801.56 --> 3801.88] Grace -[3801.88 --> 3802.10] Through -[3802.10 --> 3802.54] Faith -[3802.54 --> 3804.10] Remember -[3804.10 --> 3804.68] We've -[3804.68 --> 3804.96] Talked -[3804.96 --> 3805.12] About -[3805.12 --> 3805.38] This -[3805.38 --> 3805.56] But -[3805.56 --> 3806.66] Justification -[3806.66 --> 3807.80] Is -[3807.80 --> 3808.02] A -[3808.02 --> 3808.56] Legal -[3808.56 --> 3809.14] Term -[3809.14 --> 3809.58] It's -[3809.58 --> 3809.68] A -[3809.68 --> 3809.92] Term -[3809.92 --> 3810.12] That -[3810.12 --> 3810.86] Paul -[3810.86 --> 3811.08] Is -[3811.08 --> 3811.52] Borrowing -[3811.52 --> 3811.68] And -[3811.68 --> 3811.82] Is -[3811.82 --> 3812.12] Used -[3812.12 --> 3812.32] In -[3812.32 --> 3812.46] The -[3812.46 --> 3812.78] Law -[3812.78 --> 3813.06] Court -[3813.06 --> 3813.50] System -[3813.50 --> 3813.76] Of -[3813.76 --> 3814.02] His -[3814.02 --> 3814.34] Day -[3814.34 --> 3814.88] It's -[3814.88 --> 3815.04] A -[3815.04 --> 3815.34] Legal -[3815.34 --> 3815.82] Term -[3815.82 --> 3816.08] That -[3816.08 --> 3816.94] Defines -[3816.94 --> 3817.46] A -[3817.46 --> 3817.86] New -[3817.86 --> 3818.96] Reality -[3818.96 --> 3823.10] When -[3823.10 --> 3823.18] I -[3823.18 --> 3823.30] Was -[3823.30 --> 3823.42] A -[3823.42 --> 3823.86] Teenager -[3823.86 --> 3825.92] I -[3825.92 --> 3826.10] Got -[3826.10 --> 3826.42] Caught -[3826.42 --> 3826.96] Speeding -[3826.96 --> 3828.58] Doing -[3828.58 --> 3829.14] 68 -[3829.14 --> 3829.60] Kilometers -[3829.60 --> 3829.86] Per -[3829.86 --> 3830.12] Hour -[3830.12 --> 3830.90] In -[3830.90 --> 3831.02] A -[3831.02 --> 3831.30] 50 -[3831.30 --> 3831.72] Kilometer -[3831.72 --> 3832.08] Zone -[3832.08 --> 3834.08] Now -[3834.08 --> 3834.24] At -[3834.24 --> 3834.38] That -[3834.38 --> 3835.18] Nora -[3835.18 --> 3835.56] Don't -[3835.56 --> 3837.48] Nora -[3837.48 --> 3837.72] Just -[3837.72 --> 3837.94] Looked -[3837.94 --> 3838.04] At -[3838.04 --> 3838.14] Me -[3838.14 --> 3838.40] Like -[3838.40 --> 3839.02] What -[3839.02 --> 3839.96] That's -[3839.96 --> 3840.12] My -[3840.12 --> 3840.40] Daughter -[3840.40 --> 3840.60] For -[3840.60 --> 3841.00] Anyway -[3841.00 --> 3842.36] Now -[3842.36 --> 3842.58] At -[3842.58 --> 3842.76] That -[3842.76 --> 3843.18] Time -[3843.18 --> 3843.98] That -[3843.98 --> 3844.16] Was -[3844.16 --> 3844.42] A -[3844.42 --> 3845.70] $350 -[3845.70 --> 3846.56] Ticket -[3846.56 --> 3847.28] And -[3847.28 --> 3847.78] Three -[3847.78 --> 3848.48] Demerit -[3848.48 --> 3848.92] Points -[3848.92 --> 3850.10] Now -[3850.10 --> 3850.22] I -[3850.22 --> 3850.34] Don't -[3850.34 --> 3850.52] Know -[3850.52 --> 3850.78] If -[3850.78 --> 3850.98] It's -[3850.98 --> 3851.20] Still -[3851.20 --> 3851.42] That -[3851.42 --> 3851.72] Way -[3851.72 --> 3852.28] Or -[3852.28 --> 3852.42] If -[3852.42 --> 3852.54] It's -[3852.54 --> 3852.70] That -[3852.70 --> 3852.84] Way -[3852.84 --> 3853.04] Here -[3853.04 --> 3853.16] In -[3853.16 --> 3853.42] BC -[3853.42 --> 3853.68] Where -[3853.68 --> 3853.78] You -[3853.78 --> 3853.92] Get -[3853.92 --> 3854.32] Demerit -[3854.32 --> 3854.68] Points -[3854.68 --> 3854.86] And -[3854.86 --> 3854.98] That -[3854.98 --> 3855.36] Impacts -[3855.36 --> 3855.54] Your -[3855.54 --> 3856.04] Insurance -[3856.04 --> 3856.68] And -[3856.68 --> 3856.78] The -[3856.78 --> 3857.00] Like -[3857.00 --> 3858.36] Now -[3858.36 --> 3858.50] I -[3858.50 --> 3858.70] Don't -[3858.70 --> 3858.86] Know -[3858.86 --> 3859.04] That -[3859.04 --> 3859.26] That -[3859.26 --> 3859.68] Obviously -[3859.68 --> 3859.98] Means -[3859.98 --> 3860.10] That -[3860.10 --> 3860.20] I -[3860.20 --> 3860.42] Haven't -[3860.42 --> 3860.76] Sped -[3860.76 --> 3861.00] Since -[3861.00 --> 3861.14] I -[3861.14 --> 3861.24] Was -[3861.24 --> 3861.36] A -[3861.36 --> 3861.74] Teenager -[3861.74 --> 3862.04] Right -[3862.04 --> 3862.62] That's -[3862.62 --> 3862.74] The -[3862.74 --> 3863.18] Conclusion -[3863.18 --> 3863.46] There -[3863.46 --> 3866.44] Whatever -[3866.44 --> 3867.28] Agreed -[3867.28 --> 3868.80] I -[3868.80 --> 3868.94] Just -[3868.94 --> 3869.12] Have -[3869.12 --> 3869.44] No -[3869.44 --> 3871.08] I -[3871.08 --> 3871.24] Was -[3871.24 --> 3871.40] In -[3871.40 --> 3871.68] Court -[3871.68 --> 3872.42] And -[3872.42 --> 3872.56] I -[3872.56 --> 3872.66] Had -[3872.66 --> 3872.76] A -[3872.76 --> 3873.24] $350 -[3873.24 --> 3873.90] Fine -[3873.90 --> 3874.12] And -[3874.12 --> 3875.40] I -[3875.40 --> 3875.64] Went -[3875.64 --> 3875.86] To -[3875.86 --> 3876.28] Court -[3876.28 --> 3876.90] To -[3876.90 --> 3877.16] Fight -[3877.16 --> 3877.34] The -[3877.34 --> 3877.90] Charge -[3877.90 --> 3878.60] Not -[3878.60 --> 3878.92] Because -[3878.92 --> 3879.10] I -[3879.10 --> 3879.42] Wasn't -[3879.42 --> 3879.82] Guilty -[3879.82 --> 3880.40] I -[3880.40 --> 3880.68] Was -[3880.68 --> 3881.42] I -[3881.42 --> 3882.26] Sped -[3882.26 --> 3883.92] I -[3883.92 --> 3884.10] Went -[3884.10 --> 3884.26] To -[3884.26 --> 3884.48] Court -[3884.48 --> 3884.70] Because -[3884.70 --> 3884.84] I -[3884.84 --> 3885.08] Couldn't -[3885.08 --> 3885.46] Afford -[3885.46 --> 3885.66] The -[3885.66 --> 3886.26] $350 -[3886.26 --> 3887.00] Fine -[3887.00 --> 3887.54] Or -[3887.54 --> 3887.74] The -[3887.74 --> 3888.32] Insurance -[3888.32 --> 3888.68] Bump -[3888.68 --> 3888.88] That -[3888.88 --> 3889.16] Three -[3889.16 --> 3889.56] Points -[3889.56 --> 3889.76] Would -[3889.76 --> 3890.14] Cost -[3890.14 --> 3890.40] Me -[3890.40 --> 3891.80] So -[3891.80 --> 3891.96] I -[3891.96 --> 3892.18] Was -[3892.18 --> 3892.64] Throwing -[3892.64 --> 3893.16] Myself -[3893.16 --> 3893.42] On -[3893.42 --> 3893.54] The -[3893.54 --> 3893.84] Mercy -[3893.84 --> 3894.08] Of -[3894.08 --> 3894.22] The -[3894.22 --> 3894.54] Judge -[3894.54 --> 3894.72] Or -[3894.72 --> 3894.90] The -[3894.90 --> 3895.88] Justice -[3895.88 --> 3898.38] Now -[3898.38 --> 3898.52] The -[3898.52 --> 3898.66] Way -[3898.66 --> 3898.80] It -[3898.80 --> 3899.06] Worked -[3899.06 --> 3899.70] Back -[3899.70 --> 3899.96] Then -[3899.96 --> 3900.88] Is -[3900.88 --> 3901.02] That -[3901.02 --> 3901.16] When -[3901.16 --> 3901.28] You -[3901.28 --> 3901.48] Went -[3901.48 --> 3901.66] To -[3901.66 --> 3902.06] Traffic -[3902.06 --> 3902.44] Court -[3902.44 --> 3902.60] You -[3902.60 --> 3903.00] Meet -[3903.00 --> 3903.16] With -[3903.16 --> 3903.30] The -[3903.30 --> 3903.62] Crown -[3903.62 --> 3903.78] Or -[3903.78 --> 3904.02] The -[3904.02 --> 3904.66] Prosecuting -[3904.66 --> 3905.00] Attorney -[3905.00 --> 3906.18] Beforehand -[3906.18 --> 3906.78] And -[3906.78 --> 3906.88] You -[3906.88 --> 3907.00] Would -[3907.00 --> 3907.10] Try -[3907.10 --> 3907.22] To -[3907.22 --> 3907.34] Come -[3907.34 --> 3907.42] Up -[3907.42 --> 3907.52] With -[3907.52 --> 3907.62] A -[3907.62 --> 3907.84] Deal -[3907.84 --> 3908.56] Anyway -[3908.56 --> 3908.70] I -[3908.70 --> 3908.86] Was -[3908.86 --> 3909.04] Able -[3909.04 --> 3909.22] To -[3909.22 --> 3909.38] Meet -[3909.38 --> 3909.52] With -[3909.52 --> 3909.64] The -[3909.64 --> 3909.92] Crown -[3909.92 --> 3910.12] Or -[3910.12 --> 3910.24] The -[3910.24 --> 3910.74] Prosecuting -[3910.74 --> 3911.06] Attorney -[3911.06 --> 3912.04] And -[3912.04 --> 3912.38] Ask -[3912.38 --> 3912.66] Them -[3912.66 --> 3912.86] To -[3912.86 --> 3913.24] Reduce -[3913.24 --> 3913.46] The -[3913.46 --> 3913.92] Charges -[3913.92 --> 3914.70] And -[3914.70 --> 3914.82] So -[3914.82 --> 3914.94] They -[3914.94 --> 3915.24] Filled -[3915.24 --> 3915.38] Out -[3915.38 --> 3915.52] Their -[3915.52 --> 3916.00] Paperwork -[3916.00 --> 3916.12] And -[3916.12 --> 3916.22] They -[3916.22 --> 3916.44] Went -[3916.44 --> 3916.58] And -[3916.58 --> 3916.72] Then -[3916.72 --> 3917.16] When -[3917.16 --> 3917.32] We -[3917.32 --> 3917.62] Came -[3917.62 --> 3918.08] Time -[3918.08 --> 3918.30] To -[3918.30 --> 3918.64] Stand -[3918.64 --> 3918.84] Up -[3918.84 --> 3918.98] In -[3918.98 --> 3919.14] Front -[3919.14 --> 3919.26] Of -[3919.26 --> 3919.40] The -[3919.40 --> 3919.74] Justice -[3919.74 --> 3920.98] He -[3920.98 --> 3921.38] Asked -[3921.38 --> 3921.64] Me -[3921.64 --> 3922.32] If -[3922.32 --> 3922.46] I -[3922.46 --> 3922.74] Had -[3922.74 --> 3923.32] Met -[3923.32 --> 3923.50] With -[3923.50 --> 3923.64] The -[3923.64 --> 3923.94] Crown -[3923.94 --> 3924.32] Before -[3924.32 --> 3924.70] And -[3924.70 --> 3924.80] If -[3924.80 --> 3924.92] We -[3924.92 --> 3925.04] Had -[3925.04 --> 3925.22] Come -[3925.22 --> 3925.36] To -[3925.36 --> 3925.76] Terms -[3925.76 --> 3926.88] And -[3926.88 --> 3926.98] I -[3926.98 --> 3927.12] Said -[3927.12 --> 3927.42] Yes -[3927.42 --> 3927.64] We -[3927.64 --> 3927.88] Had -[3927.88 --> 3929.04] And -[3929.04 --> 3929.16] So -[3929.16 --> 3929.34] The -[3929.34 --> 3929.70] Justice -[3929.70 --> 3930.12] Then -[3930.12 --> 3930.42] Said -[3930.42 --> 3930.80] Something -[3930.80 --> 3931.22] Like -[3931.22 --> 3931.34] And -[3931.34 --> 3931.40] I -[3931.40 --> 3931.52] Don't -[3931.52 --> 3931.76] Remember -[3931.76 --> 3932.26] Exactly -[3932.26 --> 3932.50] But -[3932.50 --> 3932.62] He -[3932.62 --> 3932.84] Said -[3932.84 --> 3934.56] In -[3934.56 --> 3934.68] The -[3934.68 --> 3934.98] Matter -[3934.98 --> 3935.22] Of -[3935.22 --> 3935.68] Officer -[3935.68 --> 3935.94] De -[3935.94 --> 3936.22] Silva -[3936.22 --> 3937.00] Now -[3937.00 --> 3937.14] That -[3937.14 --> 3937.28] Was -[3937.28 --> 3937.42] The -[3937.42 --> 3937.56] Name -[3937.56 --> 3937.64] Of -[3937.64 --> 3937.72] The -[3937.72 --> 3937.90] Cop -[3937.90 --> 3938.00] Who -[3938.00 --> 3938.14] Pulled -[3938.14 --> 3938.26] Me -[3938.26 --> 3938.42] Over -[3938.42 --> 3938.58] I -[3938.58 --> 3938.84] Remember -[3938.84 --> 3939.18] That -[3939.18 --> 3940.30] Or -[3940.30 --> 3940.66] The -[3940.66 --> 3941.54] Bradford -[3941.54 --> 3941.90] Police -[3941.90 --> 3942.36] Department -[3942.36 --> 3942.64] Or -[3942.64 --> 3942.80] The -[3942.80 --> 3943.20] Township -[3943.20 --> 3943.36] Or -[3943.36 --> 3943.60] Whatever -[3943.60 --> 3944.10] In -[3944.10 --> 3944.18] The -[3944.18 --> 3944.42] Matter -[3944.42 --> 3944.66] Of -[3944.66 --> 3945.04] Officer -[3945.04 --> 3945.26] De -[3945.26 --> 3945.56] Silva -[3945.56 --> 3946.18] V -[3946.18 --> 3946.58] Chris -[3946.58 --> 3947.02] De Winter -[3947.02 --> 3947.66] The -[3947.66 --> 3947.98] Court -[3947.98 --> 3948.42] Does -[3948.42 --> 3948.96] Find -[3948.96 --> 3949.24] That -[3949.24 --> 3949.52] On -[3949.52 --> 3949.92] March -[3949.92 --> 3950.32] 12 -[3950.32 --> 3950.52] I -[3950.52 --> 3950.64] Don't -[3950.64 --> 3950.82] Remember -[3950.82 --> 3950.96] The -[3950.96 --> 3951.12] Date -[3951.12 --> 3951.26] I -[3951.26 --> 3951.42] Picked -[3951.42 --> 3951.58] That -[3951.58 --> 3951.72] Because -[3951.72 --> 3951.82] That -[3951.82 --> 3951.90] Is -[3951.90 --> 3952.20] Today's -[3952.20 --> 3952.36] Date -[3952.36 --> 3952.76] On -[3952.76 --> 3953.04] March -[3953.04 --> 3953.42] 12 -[3953.42 --> 3953.70] At -[3953.70 --> 3954.36] 630 -[3954.36 --> 3954.74] You -[3954.74 --> 3955.08] Did -[3955.08 --> 3955.54] Drive -[3955.54 --> 3956.02] 60 -[3956.02 --> 3956.56] Kilometers -[3956.56 --> 3956.82] Per -[3956.82 --> 3957.08] Hour -[3957.08 --> 3957.36] In -[3957.36 --> 3957.56] A -[3957.56 --> 3957.84] 50 -[3957.84 --> 3958.22] Zone -[3958.22 --> 3959.74] For -[3959.74 --> 3960.02] Such -[3960.02 --> 3960.16] An -[3960.16 --> 3960.70] Infraction -[3960.70 --> 3961.38] There -[3961.38 --> 3961.48] Is -[3961.48 --> 3961.60] A -[3961.60 --> 3962.02] 52 -[3962.02 --> 3962.84] Fine -[3962.84 --> 3963.10] And -[3963.10 --> 3963.30] No -[3963.30 --> 3963.72] Demerit -[3963.72 --> 3964.12] Points -[3964.12 --> 3964.78] How -[3964.78 --> 3964.96] Do -[3964.96 --> 3965.10] You -[3965.10 --> 3965.44] Plead -[3965.44 --> 3967.36] Guilty -[3967.36 --> 3969.96] But -[3969.96 --> 3970.10] Did -[3970.10 --> 3970.18] You -[3970.18 --> 3970.30] Hear -[3970.30 --> 3970.48] What -[3970.48 --> 3970.88] The -[3970.88 --> 3971.22] Judge -[3971.22 --> 3971.90] Did -[3971.90 --> 3973.50] He -[3973.50 --> 3974.36] Rewrote -[3974.36 --> 3975.16] History -[3975.16 --> 3976.96] Right -[3976.96 --> 3977.16] He -[3977.16 --> 3977.54] Looked -[3977.54 --> 3977.80] Back -[3977.80 --> 3977.96] On -[3977.96 --> 3978.06] The -[3978.06 --> 3978.24] Day -[3978.24 --> 3978.42] That -[3978.42 --> 3978.52] I -[3978.52 --> 3978.64] Was -[3978.64 --> 3978.98] Originally -[3978.98 --> 3979.50] Charged -[3979.50 --> 3979.70] That -[3979.70 --> 3979.96] March -[3979.96 --> 3980.26] 12 -[3980.26 --> 3980.42] And -[3980.42 --> 3980.52] It -[3980.52 --> 3980.64] Was -[3980.64 --> 3980.86] Some -[3980.86 --> 3981.36] Months -[3981.36 --> 3981.62] Later -[3981.62 --> 3982.12] And -[3982.12 --> 3982.22] He -[3982.22 --> 3982.40] Said -[3982.40 --> 3982.66] On -[3982.66 --> 3982.90] March -[3982.90 --> 3983.20] 12 -[3983.20 --> 3983.44] At -[3983.44 --> 3983.94] 630 -[3983.94 --> 3984.22] You -[3984.22 --> 3984.58] Did -[3984.58 --> 3985.06] Drive -[3985.06 --> 3985.50] 60 -[3985.50 --> 3986.04] Kilometers -[3986.04 --> 3986.36] In -[3986.36 --> 3986.50] A -[3986.50 --> 3986.80] 50 -[3986.80 --> 3987.56] Zone -[3987.56 --> 3988.98] He -[3988.98 --> 3990.10] Redefined -[3990.10 --> 3990.84] Reality -[3990.84 --> 3991.70] In -[3991.70 --> 3992.06] A -[3992.06 --> 3992.54] Legal -[3992.54 --> 3993.44] Sense -[3993.44 --> 3995.78] That's -[3995.78 --> 3996.54] Justification -[3996.54 --> 3998.24] Right -[3998.24 --> 3998.36] When -[3998.36 --> 3998.68] God -[3998.68 --> 3999.14] Declares -[3999.14 --> 3999.40] You -[3999.40 --> 3999.98] Innocent -[3999.98 --> 4000.34] Because -[4000.34 --> 4000.60] Of -[4000.60 --> 4000.98] Jesus -[4000.98 --> 4001.30] He -[4001.30 --> 4002.26] Redefines -[4002.26 --> 4002.50] Your -[4002.50 --> 4003.22] Reality -[4003.22 --> 4004.58] By -[4004.58 --> 4004.80] His -[4004.80 --> 4005.24] Grace -[4005.24 --> 4007.40] Now -[4007.40 --> 4007.78] Grace -[4007.78 --> 4008.54] Is -[4008.54 --> 4008.86] The -[4008.86 --> 4010.40] Unmerited -[4010.40 --> 4010.82] And -[4010.82 --> 4011.74] Unearned -[4011.74 --> 4012.68] Favorable -[4012.68 --> 4013.46] Disposition -[4013.46 --> 4013.78] Of -[4013.78 --> 4014.22] God -[4014.22 --> 4015.06] Towards -[4015.06 --> 4015.46] You -[4015.46 --> 4017.66] Right -[4017.66 --> 4017.80] So -[4017.80 --> 4017.96] He -[4017.96 --> 4018.76] Redefines -[4018.76 --> 4019.50] Reality -[4019.50 --> 4020.90] By -[4020.90 --> 4021.34] His -[4021.34 --> 4022.06] Unmerited -[4022.06 --> 4022.60] Favorable -[4022.60 --> 4023.10] Disposition -[4023.10 --> 4023.54] Towards -[4023.54 --> 4023.78] You -[4023.78 --> 4024.62] Through -[4024.62 --> 4025.66] Faith -[4025.66 --> 4026.82] Faith -[4026.82 --> 4027.04] We -[4027.04 --> 4027.34] Said -[4027.34 --> 4027.64] Right -[4027.64 --> 4027.82] Is -[4027.82 --> 4028.08] A -[4028.08 --> 4028.48] Trust -[4028.48 --> 4028.74] In -[4028.74 --> 4028.88] The -[4028.88 --> 4029.22] Person -[4029.22 --> 4029.48] And -[4029.48 --> 4029.74] Work -[4029.74 --> 4029.98] Of -[4029.98 --> 4030.28] Jesus -[4030.28 --> 4030.94] And -[4030.94 --> 4031.06] A -[4031.06 --> 4031.50] Belief -[4031.50 --> 4032.00] In -[4032.00 --> 4032.14] The -[4032.14 --> 4032.52] Promise -[4032.52 --> 4032.82] Of -[4032.82 --> 4033.00] The -[4033.00 --> 4033.42] Gospel -[4033.42 --> 4034.88] And -[4034.88 --> 4035.12] That -[4035.12 --> 4035.54] Faith -[4035.54 --> 4036.12] Too -[4036.12 --> 4037.02] Is -[4037.02 --> 4037.28] A -[4037.28 --> 4037.56] Gift -[4037.56 --> 4038.46] From -[4038.46 --> 4038.86] God -[4038.86 --> 4039.24] And -[4039.24 --> 4039.36] So -[4039.36 --> 4039.68] Stack -[4039.68 --> 4039.94] These -[4039.94 --> 4040.22] Things -[4040.22 --> 4040.64] Together -[4040.64 --> 4041.58] Right -[4041.58 --> 4041.72] And -[4041.72 --> 4041.86] I -[4041.86 --> 4042.06] Hope -[4042.06 --> 4042.18] You -[4042.18 --> 4042.40] Begin -[4042.40 --> 4042.58] To -[4042.58 --> 4042.76] See -[4042.76 --> 4043.08] Why -[4043.08 --> 4043.34] This -[4043.34 --> 4043.86] Doctrine -[4043.86 --> 4044.32] Is -[4044.32 --> 4044.54] So -[4044.54 --> 4045.08] Beautiful -[4045.08 --> 4045.62] Why -[4045.62 --> 4045.86] This -[4045.86 --> 4046.24] Truth -[4046.24 --> 4046.44] Is -[4046.44 --> 4046.60] So -[4046.60 --> 4047.06] Beautiful -[4047.06 --> 4048.02] Right -[4048.02 --> 4048.24] That -[4048.24 --> 4049.06] Justification -[4049.06 --> 4049.36] Is -[4049.36 --> 4049.54] By -[4049.54 --> 4049.88] Grace -[4049.88 --> 4050.12] Through -[4050.12 --> 4050.46] Faith -[4050.46 --> 4051.14] Shows -[4051.14 --> 4051.60] God -[4051.60 --> 4051.82] As -[4051.82 --> 4052.00] The -[4052.00 --> 4052.52] Primary -[4052.52 --> 4053.14] And -[4053.14 --> 4053.94] Singular -[4053.94 --> 4054.80] Agent -[4054.80 --> 4055.16] Of -[4055.16 --> 4055.36] Our -[4055.36 --> 4056.10] Justification -[4056.10 --> 4056.66] He -[4056.66 --> 4056.92] Is -[4056.92 --> 4057.14] The -[4057.14 --> 4057.72] Judge -[4057.72 --> 4058.20] The -[4058.20 --> 4058.66] Justice -[4058.66 --> 4059.08] He -[4059.08 --> 4059.60] Alone -[4059.60 --> 4060.12] Is -[4060.12 --> 4061.06] Just -[4061.06 --> 4061.42] And -[4061.42 --> 4061.58] The -[4061.58 --> 4061.78] One -[4061.78 --> 4061.96] Who -[4061.96 --> 4062.84] Justifies -[4062.84 --> 4063.24] Romans -[4063.24 --> 4063.56] 3 -[4063.56 --> 4064.30] 26 -[4064.30 --> 4064.98] This -[4064.98 --> 4065.58] Decree -[4065.58 --> 4066.58] Redefines -[4066.58 --> 4067.30] Reality -[4067.30 --> 4067.74] So -[4067.74 --> 4067.92] That -[4067.92 --> 4068.36] Now -[4068.36 --> 4068.92] You -[4068.92 --> 4069.48] Have -[4069.48 --> 4070.08] Peace -[4070.08 --> 4070.78] With -[4070.78 --> 4071.58] God -[4071.58 --> 4071.72] And -[4071.72 --> 4071.94] Remember -[4071.94 --> 4072.16] This -[4072.16 --> 4072.36] Isn't -[4072.36 --> 4072.52] A -[4072.52 --> 4073.14] Subjective -[4073.14 --> 4073.60] Peace -[4073.60 --> 4074.42] Right -[4074.42 --> 4074.62] There's -[4074.62 --> 4074.80] A -[4074.80 --> 4075.16] Shift -[4075.16 --> 4075.44] In -[4075.44 --> 4075.64] Your -[4075.64 --> 4076.50] Ontology -[4076.50 --> 4077.12] There's -[4077.12 --> 4077.14] There's -[4077.14 --> 4077.24] A -[4077.24 --> 4077.40] New -[4077.40 --> 4078.04] Reality -[4078.04 --> 4078.46] For -[4078.46 --> 4078.72] You -[4078.72 --> 4080.20] We -[4080.20 --> 4080.38] Read -[4080.38 --> 4080.52] It -[4080.52 --> 4080.78] Earlier -[4080.78 --> 4081.06] In -[4081.06 --> 4081.18] The -[4081.18 --> 4081.60] Service -[4081.60 --> 4082.04] Second -[4082.04 --> 4082.50] Corinthians -[4082.50 --> 4082.86] 5 -[4082.86 --> 4083.34] 17 -[4083.34 --> 4084.16] If -[4084.16 --> 4084.56] Anyone -[4084.56 --> 4084.98] Is -[4084.98 --> 4085.26] In -[4085.26 --> 4085.84] Christ -[4085.84 --> 4087.14] He -[4087.14 --> 4087.36] Is -[4087.36 --> 4087.48] A -[4087.48 --> 4087.62] New -[4087.62 --> 4088.22] Creation -[4088.22 --> 4091.64] Now -[4091.64 --> 4091.82] Makes -[4091.82 --> 4091.92] You -[4091.92 --> 4092.20] Wonder -[4092.20 --> 4092.48] Though -[4092.48 --> 4092.80] Or -[4092.80 --> 4092.86] At -[4092.86 --> 4092.98] Least -[4092.98 --> 4093.08] It -[4093.08 --> 4093.18] Makes -[4093.18 --> 4093.36] Me -[4093.36 --> 4093.66] Wonder -[4093.66 --> 4095.24] What -[4095.24 --> 4095.40] Is -[4095.40 --> 4095.58] The -[4095.58 --> 4095.80] Old -[4095.80 --> 4096.38] Creation -[4096.38 --> 4098.02] Right -[4098.02 --> 4098.20] If -[4098.20 --> 4098.56] Peace -[4098.56 --> 4098.84] Is -[4098.84 --> 4099.18] New -[4099.18 --> 4099.52] And -[4099.52 --> 4099.98] God's -[4099.98 --> 4100.34] Gift -[4100.34 --> 4101.04] What -[4101.04 --> 4101.30] Was -[4101.30 --> 4101.52] My -[4101.52 --> 4102.40] Relationship -[4102.40 --> 4103.04] Before -[4103.04 --> 4104.38] That -[4104.38 --> 4104.80] Gift -[4104.80 --> 4107.28] Look -[4107.28 --> 4107.38] At -[4107.38 --> 4107.56] Verse -[4107.56 --> 4107.78] Eight -[4107.78 --> 4110.84] God -[4110.84 --> 4111.46] Demonstrates -[4111.46 --> 4111.66] His -[4111.66 --> 4111.86] Own -[4111.86 --> 4112.06] Love -[4112.06 --> 4112.26] For -[4112.26 --> 4112.56] Us -[4112.56 --> 4112.82] In -[4112.82 --> 4113.20] This -[4113.20 --> 4113.98] While -[4113.98 --> 4114.54] We -[4114.54 --> 4115.22] Were -[4115.22 --> 4116.06] Still -[4116.06 --> 4117.08] Sinners -[4117.08 --> 4118.16] Christ -[4118.16 --> 4118.96] Died -[4118.96 --> 4119.72] For -[4119.72 --> 4120.10] Us -[4120.10 --> 4122.04] We -[4122.04 --> 4122.34] Need -[4122.34 --> 4122.86] Peace -[4122.86 --> 4123.56] With -[4123.56 --> 4124.10] God -[4124.10 --> 4124.48] Because -[4124.48 --> 4124.94] Apart -[4124.94 --> 4125.38] From -[4125.38 --> 4126.10] Jesus -[4126.10 --> 4126.72] Life -[4126.72 --> 4127.08] And -[4127.08 --> 4127.36] Death -[4127.36 --> 4127.66] Being -[4127.66 --> 4128.06] Applied -[4128.06 --> 4128.28] To -[4128.28 --> 4128.58] Me -[4128.58 --> 4129.56] I'm -[4129.56 --> 4130.34] Still -[4130.34 --> 4131.48] A -[4131.48 --> 4131.86] Sinner -[4131.86 --> 4133.52] Okay -[4133.52 --> 4133.68] But -[4133.68 --> 4133.84] What -[4133.84 --> 4133.96] Does -[4133.96 --> 4134.14] That -[4134.14 --> 4134.44] Mean -[4134.44 --> 4135.38] Look -[4135.38 --> 4135.46] In -[4135.46 --> 4135.60] Verse -[4135.60 --> 4135.88] Ten -[4135.88 --> 4137.86] For -[4137.86 --> 4138.18] If -[4138.18 --> 4138.64] While -[4138.64 --> 4138.94] We -[4138.94 --> 4139.32] Were -[4139.32 --> 4140.18] God's -[4140.18 --> 4141.72] Enemies -[4141.72 --> 4144.46] Now -[4144.46 --> 4148.16] If -[4148.16 --> 4148.34] You -[4148.34 --> 4148.62] Hear -[4148.62 --> 4148.88] That -[4148.88 --> 4149.62] Properly -[4149.62 --> 4151.00] That -[4151.00 --> 4151.38] Should -[4151.38 --> 4151.82] Offend -[4151.82 --> 4152.06] You -[4152.06 --> 4156.10] God's -[4156.10 --> 4157.20] Enemies -[4157.20 --> 4158.10] And -[4158.10 --> 4158.46] Apart -[4158.46 --> 4158.68] From -[4158.68 --> 4158.90] His -[4158.90 --> 4159.40] Grace -[4159.40 --> 4160.00] I'm -[4160.00 --> 4160.10] An -[4160.10 --> 4160.32] Enemy -[4160.32 --> 4160.52] Of -[4160.52 --> 4160.82] God -[4160.82 --> 4163.74] And -[4163.74 --> 4164.02] As -[4164.02 --> 4164.22] An -[4164.22 --> 4164.56] Enemy -[4164.56 --> 4165.50] Of -[4165.50 --> 4166.22] God -[4166.22 --> 4167.78] Look -[4167.78 --> 4167.92] At -[4167.92 --> 4168.10] Verse -[4168.10 --> 4168.52] Nine -[4168.52 --> 4169.72] Since -[4169.72 --> 4169.88] We -[4169.88 --> 4170.00] Have -[4170.00 --> 4170.14] Now -[4170.14 --> 4170.32] Been -[4170.32 --> 4170.82] Justified -[4170.82 --> 4171.00] By -[4171.00 --> 4171.20] His -[4171.20 --> 4171.50] Blood -[4171.50 --> 4171.78] How -[4171.78 --> 4172.06] Much -[4172.06 --> 4172.34] More -[4172.34 --> 4172.60] Shall -[4172.60 --> 4172.76] We -[4172.76 --> 4172.96] Be -[4172.96 --> 4173.34] Saved -[4173.34 --> 4173.72] From -[4173.72 --> 4174.36] God's -[4174.36 --> 4174.96] Wrath -[4174.96 --> 4175.60] Through -[4175.60 --> 4175.92] Him -[4175.92 --> 4177.68] Right -[4177.68 --> 4177.82] As -[4177.82 --> 4177.94] An -[4177.94 --> 4178.14] Enemy -[4178.14 --> 4178.32] Of -[4178.32 --> 4178.48] God -[4178.48 --> 4178.68] I -[4178.68 --> 4178.86] Need -[4178.86 --> 4178.98] To -[4178.98 --> 4179.12] Be -[4179.12 --> 4179.42] Saved -[4179.42 --> 4179.70] From -[4179.70 --> 4180.66] His -[4180.66 --> 4181.34] Wrath -[4181.34 --> 4182.04] For -[4182.04 --> 4182.38] Sin -[4182.38 --> 4184.66] This -[4184.66 --> 4185.00] Right -[4185.00 --> 4185.24] Here -[4185.24 --> 4185.46] Is -[4185.46 --> 4185.64] Why -[4185.64 --> 4185.82] The -[4185.82 --> 4186.24] Gospel -[4186.24 --> 4186.80] Is -[4186.80 --> 4186.94] An -[4186.94 --> 4187.40] Offense -[4187.40 --> 4187.74] All -[4187.74 --> 4187.90] On -[4187.90 --> 4188.06] Its -[4188.06 --> 4188.30] Own -[4188.30 --> 4188.46] And -[4188.46 --> 4188.62] Why -[4188.62 --> 4188.80] You -[4188.80 --> 4188.94] Will -[4188.94 --> 4189.12] Hear -[4189.12 --> 4189.30] Me -[4189.30 --> 4189.58] Say -[4189.58 --> 4190.24] Don't -[4190.24 --> 4190.54] Add -[4190.54 --> 4190.74] To -[4190.74 --> 4190.94] The -[4190.94 --> 4191.26] Offense -[4191.26 --> 4191.36] Of -[4191.36 --> 4191.46] The -[4191.46 --> 4191.76] Gospel -[4191.76 --> 4191.96] By -[4191.96 --> 4192.16] Being -[4192.16 --> 4192.32] A -[4192.32 --> 4192.64] Jerk -[4192.64 --> 4193.96] Right -[4193.96 --> 4194.26] Apart -[4194.26 --> 4194.48] From -[4194.48 --> 4194.76] God's -[4194.76 --> 4195.24] Grace -[4195.24 --> 4196.42] Justifying -[4196.42 --> 4196.78] Me -[4196.78 --> 4197.46] Justifying -[4197.46 --> 4197.90] You -[4197.90 --> 4199.08] Crediting -[4199.08 --> 4199.52] Jesus -[4199.52 --> 4200.42] Righteousness -[4200.42 --> 4200.64] To -[4230.42 --> 4230.52] God -[4230.52 --> 4232.30] And -[4232.30 --> 4232.66] I -[4232.66 --> 4233.02] Say -[4233.02 --> 4234.86] To -[4234.86 --> 4234.88] Take -[4234.88 --> 4235.12] To -[4235.12 --> 4235.54] To -[4235.54 --> 4236.64] To -[4236.64 --> 4236.86] Read -[4236.86 --> 4237.00] It -[4237.00 --> 4237.18] And -[4237.18 --> 4237.52] Test -[4237.52 --> 4237.70] It -[4237.70 --> 4238.00] And -[4238.00 --> 4238.18] See -[4238.18 --> 4238.32] If -[4238.32 --> 4238.44] What -[4238.44 --> 4238.56] I'm -[4238.56 --> 4238.86] Saying -[4238.86 --> 4239.18] Adds -[4239.18 --> 4239.50] Up -[4239.50 --> 4239.84] And -[4239.84 --> 4240.50] Call -[4240.50 --> 4240.66] Me -[4240.66 --> 4240.90] Out -[4240.90 --> 4242.14] Or -[4242.14 --> 4242.40] Call -[4242.40 --> 4242.56] Me -[4242.56 --> 4242.72] And -[4242.72 --> 4242.90] Say -[4242.90 --> 4243.98] Help -[4243.98 --> 4244.24] Me -[4244.24 --> 4245.30] A -[4245.30 --> 4245.64] Sinner -[4245.64 --> 4249.36] Peace -[4249.36 --> 4249.62] With -[4249.62 --> 4250.10] God -[4250.10 --> 4250.96] In -[4250.96 --> 4251.34] Romans -[4251.34 --> 4252.00] 5 -[4252.00 --> 4253.28] Means -[4253.28 --> 4254.20] That -[4254.20 --> 4254.92] Before -[4254.92 --> 4256.00] Justification -[4256.00 --> 4257.64] We -[4257.64 --> 4257.84] Are -[4257.84 --> 4258.10] At -[4258.10 --> 4258.60] War -[4258.60 --> 4259.38] With -[4259.38 --> 4259.72] God -[4259.72 --> 4261.78] Here's -[4261.78 --> 4261.92] The -[4261.92 --> 4262.06] Thing -[4262.06 --> 4262.30] About -[4262.30 --> 4262.62] War -[4262.62 --> 4266.38] When -[4266.38 --> 4266.54] We -[4266.54 --> 4266.92] Sin -[4266.92 --> 4268.36] Right -[4268.36 --> 4268.58] Not -[4268.58 --> 4268.82] Only -[4268.82 --> 4268.98] Are -[4268.98 --> 4269.10] We -[4269.10 --> 4269.34] Being -[4269.34 --> 4270.04] Disobedient -[4270.04 --> 4270.20] To -[4270.20 --> 4270.52] God's -[4270.52 --> 4270.96] Design -[4270.96 --> 4271.54] And -[4271.54 --> 4271.66] To -[4271.66 --> 4271.84] His -[4271.84 --> 4272.18] Moral -[4272.18 --> 4272.54] Law -[4272.54 --> 4274.08] But -[4274.08 --> 4275.80] When -[4275.80 --> 4275.96] You -[4275.96 --> 4276.42] Sin -[4276.42 --> 4277.36] You -[4277.36 --> 4278.32] Think -[4278.32 --> 4278.90] You -[4278.90 --> 4279.72] Assume -[4279.72 --> 4280.18] That -[4280.18 --> 4280.38] You -[4280.38 --> 4281.02] Should -[4281.02 --> 4281.72] Do -[4281.72 --> 4282.00] That -[4282.00 --> 4282.32] Thing -[4282.32 --> 4283.74] Right -[4283.74 --> 4283.86] You -[4283.86 --> 4284.18] Think -[4284.18 --> 4284.36] And -[4284.36 --> 4284.48] You -[4284.48 --> 4284.80] Assume -[4284.80 --> 4284.96] That -[4284.96 --> 4285.04] That -[4285.04 --> 4285.08] That -[4285.08 --> 4285.14] Is -[4285.14 --> 4285.30] The -[4285.30 --> 4285.58] Right -[4285.58 --> 4285.90] Thing -[4285.90 --> 4286.36] To -[4286.36 --> 4286.54] Do -[4286.54 --> 4286.74] You -[4286.74 --> 4286.90] Are -[4286.90 --> 4287.28] Acting -[4287.28 --> 4287.62] As -[4287.62 --> 4287.84] The -[4287.84 --> 4288.18] King -[4288.18 --> 4288.58] Or -[4288.58 --> 4288.74] The -[4288.74 --> 4289.08] Queen -[4289.08 --> 4289.42] Of -[4289.42 --> 4289.60] Your -[4289.60 --> 4289.86] Own -[4289.86 --> 4290.46] Domain -[4290.46 --> 4290.88] Of -[4290.88 --> 4291.02] Your -[4291.02 --> 4291.26] Own -[4291.26 --> 4291.70] Life -[4291.70 --> 4292.86] But -[4292.86 --> 4293.36] God -[4293.36 --> 4293.62] Has -[4293.62 --> 4293.90] Come -[4293.90 --> 4294.20] Into -[4294.20 --> 4294.44] This -[4294.44 --> 4294.74] World -[4294.74 --> 4294.98] And -[4294.98 --> 4295.26] Said -[4295.26 --> 4295.88] I -[4295.88 --> 4296.06] Am -[4296.06 --> 4296.24] The -[4296.24 --> 4296.56] King -[4296.56 --> 4297.42] I -[4297.42 --> 4297.58] Am -[4297.58 --> 4297.72] The -[4297.72 --> 4298.06] Only -[4298.06 --> 4298.54] King -[4298.54 --> 4299.28] And -[4299.28 --> 4299.48] That -[4299.48 --> 4299.60] Is -[4299.60 --> 4299.78] The -[4299.78 --> 4300.18] War -[4300.18 --> 4301.80] Right -[4301.80 --> 4302.04] Because -[4302.04 --> 4302.30] You -[4302.30 --> 4302.44] Are -[4302.44 --> 4302.72] Trying -[4302.72 --> 4302.88] To -[4302.88 --> 4303.02] Be -[4303.02 --> 4303.24] King -[4303.24 --> 4303.40] Of -[4303.40 --> 4303.52] Your -[4303.52 --> 4303.78] Life -[4303.78 --> 4303.92] And -[4303.92 --> 4304.10] God -[4304.10 --> 4304.34] Says -[4304.34 --> 4304.68] No -[4304.68 --> 4305.36] I -[4305.36 --> 4305.62] Am -[4305.62 --> 4306.00] King -[4306.00 --> 4306.54] Of -[4306.54 --> 4306.78] This -[4306.78 --> 4307.00] World -[4307.00 --> 4307.24] That -[4307.24 --> 4307.36] Is -[4307.36 --> 4307.48] What -[4307.48 --> 4307.76] Makes -[4307.76 --> 4307.94] Us -[4307.94 --> 4308.50] Enemies -[4308.50 --> 4309.70] And -[4309.70 --> 4309.98] Because -[4309.98 --> 4310.56] God -[4310.56 --> 4310.84] Is -[4310.84 --> 4311.30] King -[4311.30 --> 4311.78] Because -[4311.78 --> 4312.00] He -[4312.00 --> 4312.18] Is -[4312.18 --> 4312.66] Creator -[4312.66 --> 4312.92] Of -[4312.92 --> 4313.12] All -[4313.12 --> 4313.28] That -[4313.28 --> 4313.54] Is -[4313.54 --> 4313.96] Including -[4313.96 --> 4314.34] You -[4314.34 --> 4314.98] Including -[4314.98 --> 4315.26] Me -[4315.26 --> 4315.66] Including -[4315.66 --> 4315.96] All -[4315.96 --> 4316.14] That -[4316.14 --> 4316.32] You -[4316.32 --> 4316.72] Are -[4316.72 --> 4317.36] There -[4317.36 --> 4317.74] Is -[4317.74 --> 4318.46] Only -[4318.46 --> 4319.26] War -[4319.26 --> 4321.06] And -[4321.06 --> 4321.30] His -[4321.30 --> 4322.00] Claim -[4322.00 --> 4322.56] Then -[4322.56 --> 4323.36] Over -[4323.36 --> 4323.78] You -[4323.78 --> 4325.12] Is -[4325.12 --> 4325.28] A -[4325.28 --> 4325.54] Legal -[4325.54 --> 4326.00] One -[4326.00 --> 4327.46] See -[4327.46 --> 4327.60] How -[4327.60 --> 4327.76] We've -[4327.76 --> 4327.88] Come -[4327.88 --> 4328.08] Back -[4328.08 --> 4328.22] To -[4328.22 --> 4328.42] This -[4328.42 --> 4328.78] Legal -[4328.78 --> 4330.08] Definition -[4330.08 --> 4331.06] Beginning -[4331.06 --> 4331.42] Back -[4331.42 --> 4331.62] In -[4331.62 --> 4331.94] Romans -[4331.94 --> 4332.38] One -[4332.38 --> 4332.86] Already -[4332.86 --> 4333.34] He -[4333.34 --> 4333.60] Has -[4333.60 --> 4333.80] Been -[4333.80 --> 4334.14] Making -[4334.14 --> 4334.52] Paul -[4334.52 --> 4334.98] Has -[4334.98 --> 4335.12] Been -[4335.12 --> 4335.42] Making -[4335.42 --> 4335.66] The -[4335.66 --> 4336.18] Legal -[4336.18 --> 4336.74] Case -[4336.74 --> 4337.46] Against -[4337.46 --> 4337.82] Us -[4337.82 --> 4337.96] And -[4337.96 --> 4338.08] If -[4338.08 --> 4338.24] You've -[4338.24 --> 4338.36] Been -[4338.36 --> 4338.74] Following -[4338.74 --> 4339.60] It's -[4339.60 --> 4340.38] Damning -[4340.38 --> 4342.44] We -[4342.44 --> 4342.66] Have -[4342.66 --> 4342.92] This -[4342.92 --> 4343.36] Debt -[4343.36 --> 4344.02] This -[4344.02 --> 4344.52] Burden -[4344.52 --> 4344.84] On -[4344.84 --> 4345.12] Us -[4345.12 --> 4345.32] And -[4345.32 --> 4345.48] We -[4345.48 --> 4345.94] Need -[4345.94 --> 4346.18] A -[4346.18 --> 4346.44] New -[4346.44 --> 4347.40] Reality -[4347.40 --> 4348.04] This -[4348.04 --> 4348.30] New -[4348.30 --> 4348.96] Reality -[4348.96 --> 4349.38] Is -[4349.38 --> 4349.78] Peace -[4349.78 --> 4350.12] With -[4350.12 --> 4350.62] God -[4350.62 --> 4351.60] Objective -[4351.60 --> 4352.22] True -[4352.22 --> 4352.74] And -[4352.74 --> 4353.18] Real -[4353.18 --> 4354.86] And -[4354.86 --> 4355.12] In -[4355.12 --> 4355.40] Case -[4355.40 --> 4355.62] We -[4355.62 --> 4355.82] Haven't -[4355.82 --> 4355.98] Made -[4355.98 --> 4356.10] It -[4356.10 --> 4356.38] Clear -[4356.38 --> 4356.78] Yet -[4356.78 --> 4357.16] To -[4357.16 --> 4357.34] You -[4357.34 --> 4357.92] Peace -[4357.92 --> 4358.16] With -[4358.16 --> 4358.48] God -[4358.48 --> 4359.00] Isn't -[4359.00 --> 4359.54] Something -[4359.54 --> 4360.30] We -[4360.30 --> 4361.06] Achieve -[4361.06 --> 4363.28] In -[4363.28 --> 4363.48] Verse -[4363.48 --> 4363.74] One -[4363.74 --> 4364.44] We -[4364.44 --> 4364.64] Have -[4364.64 --> 4364.96] Peace -[4364.96 --> 4365.18] With -[4365.18 --> 4365.50] God -[4365.50 --> 4366.08] Through -[4366.08 --> 4366.94] Our -[4366.94 --> 4367.22] Lord -[4367.22 --> 4367.56] Jesus -[4367.56 --> 4368.06] Christ -[4368.06 --> 4368.40] Verse -[4368.40 --> 4369.26] Six -[4369.26 --> 4370.22] At -[4370.22 --> 4370.40] Just -[4370.40 --> 4370.54] The -[4370.54 --> 4370.68] Right -[4370.68 --> 4370.94] Time -[4370.94 --> 4371.14] While -[4371.14 --> 4371.28] We -[4371.28 --> 4371.42] Were -[4371.42 --> 4371.72] Still -[4371.72 --> 4372.38] Powerless -[4372.38 --> 4372.90] Christ -[4372.90 --> 4373.70] Died -[4373.70 --> 4373.90] For -[4373.90 --> 4374.06] The -[4374.06 --> 4374.98] Ungodly -[4374.98 --> 4375.30] Verse -[4375.30 --> 4375.96] Eight -[4375.96 --> 4376.24] God -[4376.24 --> 4376.78] Demonstrates -[4376.78 --> 4376.92] His -[4376.92 --> 4377.14] Own -[4377.14 --> 4377.34] Love -[4377.34 --> 4377.52] For -[4377.52 --> 4377.78] Thus -[4377.78 --> 4378.00] And -[4378.00 --> 4378.24] This -[4378.24 --> 4378.64] While -[4378.64 --> 4378.88] We -[4378.88 --> 4379.08] Were -[4379.08 --> 4379.38] Still -[4379.38 --> 4379.84] Sinners -[4379.84 --> 4380.40] Christ -[4380.40 --> 4381.28] Died -[4381.28 --> 4381.58] For -[4381.58 --> 4381.90] Us -[4381.90 --> 4382.20] Verse -[4382.20 --> 4382.62] Ten -[4382.62 --> 4383.24] For -[4383.24 --> 4383.54] If -[4383.54 --> 4383.96] While -[4383.96 --> 4384.18] We -[4384.18 --> 4384.36] Were -[4384.36 --> 4384.72] God's -[4384.72 --> 4385.18] Enemies -[4385.18 --> 4385.42] We -[4385.42 --> 4385.64] Were -[4385.64 --> 4386.68] Reconciled -[4386.68 --> 4386.92] To -[4386.92 --> 4387.26] Him -[4387.26 --> 4387.72] Through -[4387.72 --> 4388.10] The -[4388.10 --> 4388.38] Death -[4388.38 --> 4388.60] Of -[4388.60 --> 4388.78] His -[4388.78 --> 4389.18] Son -[4389.18 --> 4389.84] How -[4389.84 --> 4390.14] Much -[4390.14 --> 4390.48] More -[4390.48 --> 4390.74] Having -[4390.74 --> 4391.06] Been -[4391.06 --> 4391.82] Reconciled -[4391.82 --> 4392.02] Shall -[4392.02 --> 4392.16] We -[4392.16 --> 4392.32] Be -[4392.32 --> 4393.08] Saved -[4393.08 --> 4393.72] Through -[4393.72 --> 4394.20] His -[4394.20 --> 4394.98] Life -[4394.98 --> 4395.40] For -[4395.40 --> 4395.78] Peace -[4395.78 --> 4396.14] With -[4396.14 --> 4396.54] God -[4396.54 --> 4396.72] We -[4396.72 --> 4396.92] Need -[4396.92 --> 4397.04] To -[4397.04 --> 4397.20] Be -[4397.20 --> 4398.00] Reconciled -[4398.00 --> 4398.44] To -[4398.44 --> 4399.22] God -[4399.22 --> 4400.54] And -[4400.54 --> 4400.66] We -[4400.66 --> 4400.82] Are -[4400.82 --> 4401.52] Reconciled -[4401.52 --> 4401.72] To -[4401.72 --> 4402.04] God -[4402.04 --> 4402.32] Through -[4402.32 --> 4402.56] The -[4402.56 --> 4402.84] Life -[4402.84 --> 4403.06] Of -[4403.06 --> 4403.46] Jesus -[4403.46 --> 4403.94] And -[4403.94 --> 4404.26] His -[4404.26 --> 4405.00] Perfect -[4405.00 --> 4405.80] Obedience -[4405.80 --> 4406.22] And -[4406.22 --> 4406.34] We -[4406.34 --> 4406.44] Are -[4406.44 --> 4407.00] Reconciled -[4407.00 --> 4407.18] To -[4407.18 --> 4407.46] God -[4407.46 --> 4407.86] Through -[4407.86 --> 4408.06] The -[4408.06 --> 4408.40] Death -[4408.40 --> 4408.64] Of -[4408.64 --> 4408.96] Jesus -[4408.96 --> 4409.32] In -[4409.32 --> 4409.60] Our -[4409.60 --> 4410.06] Place -[4410.06 --> 4410.30] His -[4410.30 --> 4411.38] Righteousness -[4411.38 --> 4412.42] Credited -[4412.42 --> 4412.90] To -[4412.90 --> 4413.18] Me -[4413.18 --> 4413.40] And -[4413.40 --> 4413.70] My -[4413.70 --> 4414.26] Deserving -[4414.26 --> 4414.76] Wrath -[4414.76 --> 4415.22] Born -[4415.22 --> 4415.88] By -[4415.88 --> 4416.50] Him -[4416.50 --> 4418.36] Jesus -[4418.36 --> 4418.90] Lived -[4418.90 --> 4419.10] The -[4419.10 --> 4419.38] Life -[4419.38 --> 4419.60] I -[4419.60 --> 4419.80] Should -[4420.74 --> 4421.00] The -[4421.00 --> 4421.30] Death -[4421.30 --> 4421.82] That -[4421.82 --> 4421.98] I -[4421.98 --> 4422.50] Deserve -[4422.50 --> 4425.68] And -[4425.68 --> 4425.92] There's -[4425.92 --> 4426.30] More -[4426.30 --> 4427.90] There's -[4427.90 --> 4428.20] More -[4428.20 --> 4428.42] Because -[4428.42 --> 4429.30] Justification -[4429.30 --> 4429.74] Isn't -[4429.74 --> 4429.92] Just -[4429.92 --> 4430.12] The -[4430.12 --> 4430.66] Removal -[4430.66 --> 4430.92] Of -[4430.92 --> 4431.28] God's -[4431.28 --> 4431.70] Wrath -[4431.70 --> 4432.54] Right -[4432.54 --> 4432.62] It -[4432.62 --> 4432.88] Isn't -[4432.88 --> 4433.10] Just -[4433.10 --> 4433.32] The -[4433.32 --> 4433.66] End -[4433.66 --> 4433.90] Of -[4433.90 --> 4434.08] The -[4434.08 --> 4434.48] War -[4434.48 --> 4435.02] As -[4435.02 --> 4435.62] Enemies -[4435.62 --> 4435.86] Look -[4435.86 --> 4436.12] Again -[4436.12 --> 4436.32] At -[4436.32 --> 4436.70] Verse -[4436.70 --> 4436.98] Two -[4436.98 --> 4438.92] Right -[4438.92 --> 4439.10] We -[4439.10 --> 4439.26] Have -[4439.26 --> 4439.56] Peace -[4439.56 --> 4439.74] With -[4439.74 --> 4439.98] God -[4439.98 --> 4440.20] Through -[4440.20 --> 4440.36] Our -[4440.36 --> 4440.56] Lord -[4440.56 --> 4440.82] Jesus -[4440.82 --> 4441.26] Christ -[4441.26 --> 4441.72] Through -[4441.72 --> 4442.30] Whom -[4442.30 --> 4442.56] We -[4442.56 --> 4443.04] Have -[4443.04 --> 4443.70] Gained -[4443.70 --> 4444.32] Access -[4444.32 --> 4444.88] By -[4444.88 --> 4445.36] Faith -[4445.36 --> 4445.82] Into -[4445.82 --> 4446.18] This -[4446.18 --> 4446.42] Grace -[4446.42 --> 4447.02] In -[4447.02 --> 4447.38] Which -[4447.38 --> 4447.92] We -[4447.92 --> 4448.58] Now -[4448.58 --> 4449.68] Stand -[4449.68 --> 4451.68] We -[4451.68 --> 4451.98] Have -[4451.98 --> 4452.70] Gained -[4452.70 --> 4454.02] Access -[4454.02 --> 4455.34] Our -[4455.34 --> 4456.02] Justification -[4456.02 --> 4456.78] Not only -[4456.78 --> 4457.42] Removes -[4457.42 --> 4457.96] Guilt -[4457.96 --> 4458.22] But -[4458.22 --> 4458.40] It -[4458.40 --> 4459.20] Adds -[4459.20 --> 4460.16] Access -[4460.16 --> 4461.36] Right -[4461.36 --> 4461.56] You -[4461.56 --> 4462.50] Gain -[4462.50 --> 4462.78] You -[4462.78 --> 4463.22] Come -[4463.22 --> 4463.80] Into -[4463.80 --> 4465.46] Relationship -[4465.46 --> 4466.02] With -[4466.02 --> 4466.74] Christ -[4466.74 --> 4467.02] There -[4467.02 --> 4467.20] Is -[4467.20 --> 4468.02] Relationship -[4468.02 --> 4468.20] There -[4468.20 --> 4468.36] Is -[4468.36 --> 4469.60] Friendship -[4469.60 --> 4470.10] With -[4470.10 --> 4470.52] God -[4470.52 --> 4472.10] Justification -[4472.10 --> 4472.42] By -[4472.42 --> 4472.76] Grace -[4472.76 --> 4473.00] Through -[4473.00 --> 4473.38] Faith -[4473.38 --> 4474.36] Is -[4474.36 --> 4474.62] So -[4474.62 --> 4474.86] The -[4474.86 --> 4475.52] Believer -[4475.52 --> 4475.84] Has -[4475.84 --> 4476.34] Peace -[4476.34 --> 4476.60] With -[4476.60 --> 4476.98] God -[4476.98 --> 4477.38] And -[4477.38 --> 4477.66] Not -[4477.66 --> 4477.98] Just -[4477.98 --> 4478.60] Peace -[4478.60 --> 4478.98] As -[4478.98 --> 4479.26] The -[4479.26 --> 4479.76] End -[4479.76 --> 4480.06] Of -[4480.06 --> 4480.70] Enemies -[4480.70 --> 4481.18] But -[4481.18 --> 4481.72] Peace -[4481.72 --> 4482.06] As -[4482.06 --> 4482.20] In -[4482.20 --> 4482.34] The -[4482.34 --> 4482.66] Words -[4482.66 --> 4482.88] Of -[4482.88 --> 4483.22] Jesus -[4483.22 --> 4483.56] In -[4483.56 --> 4483.80] John -[4483.80 --> 4484.30] 15 -[4484.30 --> 4485.18] Instead -[4485.18 --> 4485.64] I -[4485.64 --> 4485.82] Have -[4485.82 --> 4486.14] Called -[4486.14 --> 4486.34] You -[4486.34 --> 4486.98] Friends -[4486.98 --> 4487.74] For -[4487.74 --> 4488.28] Everything -[4488.28 --> 4488.60] I -[4488.60 --> 4488.82] Have -[4488.82 --> 4489.32] Learned -[4489.32 --> 4489.78] From -[4489.78 --> 4490.00] My -[4490.00 --> 4490.40] Father -[4490.40 --> 4490.70] I -[4490.70 --> 4490.90] Have -[4490.90 --> 4491.22] Made -[4491.22 --> 4491.68] Known -[4491.68 --> 4492.26] To -[4492.26 --> 4492.56] You -[4492.56 --> 4493.92] Justification -[4493.92 --> 4494.62] Removes -[4494.62 --> 4495.24] Guilt -[4495.24 --> 4495.52] And -[4495.52 --> 4495.90] Gives -[4495.90 --> 4496.20] You -[4496.20 --> 4497.36] Access -[4497.36 --> 4500.46] This -[4500.46 --> 4500.54] Is -[4500.54 --> 4500.70] The -[4500.70 --> 4500.94] Beauty -[4500.94 --> 4501.14] Of -[4501.14 --> 4501.28] The -[4501.28 --> 4501.68] Doctrine -[4501.68 --> 4501.88] The -[4501.88 --> 4502.10] Beauty -[4502.10 --> 4502.26] Of -[4502.26 --> 4502.36] The -[4502.36 --> 4502.64] Truth -[4502.64 --> 4503.22] Of -[4503.22 --> 4503.66] Scripture -[4503.66 --> 4511.04] But -[4511.04 --> 4511.42] Why -[4511.42 --> 4521.94] Some -[4521.94 --> 4522.12] Of -[4522.12 --> 4522.34] You -[4522.34 --> 4524.10] Even -[4524.10 --> 4524.28] Though -[4524.28 --> 4524.44] You -[4524.44 --> 4524.70] Hear -[4524.70 --> 4525.12] This -[4525.12 --> 4526.28] Even -[4526.28 --> 4526.44] Though -[4526.44 --> 4526.58] You -[4526.58 --> 4526.94] Believe -[4526.94 --> 4527.10] It -[4527.10 --> 4527.22] To -[4527.22 --> 4527.36] Be -[4527.36 --> 4527.70] True -[4527.70 --> 4528.28] Even -[4528.28 --> 4528.46] Though -[4528.46 --> 4528.62] You -[4528.62 --> 4528.94] Know -[4528.94 --> 4529.12] It -[4529.12 --> 4529.28] To -[4529.28 --> 4529.44] Be -[4529.44 --> 4529.68] True -[4529.68 --> 4529.92] In -[4529.92 --> 4530.06] Your -[4530.06 --> 4530.26] Own -[4530.26 --> 4530.58] Hearts -[4530.58 --> 4531.10] Even -[4531.10 --> 4531.32] Though -[4531.32 --> 4531.54] It -[4531.54 --> 4531.78] Is -[4531.78 --> 4532.24] Actually -[4532.24 --> 4532.50] And -[4532.50 --> 4533.10] Objectively -[4533.10 --> 4533.38] True -[4533.38 --> 4534.02] Some -[4534.02 --> 4534.22] Of -[4534.22 --> 4534.46] You -[4534.46 --> 4535.10] In -[4535.10 --> 4535.28] Your -[4535.28 --> 4535.52] Own -[4535.52 --> 4535.96] Lives -[4535.96 --> 4536.34] Are -[4536.34 --> 4536.90] Choosing -[4536.90 --> 4537.62] To -[4537.62 --> 4538.08] Live -[4538.08 --> 4538.38] Like -[4538.38 --> 4538.90] Sinners -[4538.90 --> 4539.32] And -[4539.32 --> 4539.86] Enemies -[4539.86 --> 4540.22] Even -[4540.22 --> 4540.50] Though -[4540.50 --> 4540.68] You -[4540.68 --> 4540.90] Been -[4540.90 --> 4541.18] Given -[4541.18 --> 4541.48] This -[4541.48 --> 4541.86] Life -[4541.86 --> 4542.92] Even -[4542.92 --> 4543.14] Though -[4543.14 --> 4543.36] You -[4543.36 --> 4543.78] Claim -[4543.78 --> 4544.06] To -[4544.06 --> 4544.84] Receive -[4544.84 --> 4545.12] This -[4545.12 --> 4545.48] Gift -[4545.48 --> 4545.74] Of -[4545.74 --> 4546.04] Grace -[4546.04 --> 4546.32] Even -[4546.32 --> 4546.52] Though -[4546.52 --> 4546.68] You -[4546.68 --> 4547.22] Identify -[4547.22 --> 4547.40] As -[4547.40 --> 4547.52] A -[4547.52 --> 4547.76] Christian -[4547.76 --> 4548.24] Some -[4548.24 --> 4548.38] Of -[4548.38 --> 4548.50] You -[4548.50 --> 4548.66] Are -[4548.66 --> 4548.94] Doing -[4548.94 --> 4549.18] The -[4549.18 --> 4549.46] Same -[4549.46 --> 4550.00] Things -[4550.00 --> 4550.40] As -[4550.40 --> 4550.58] The -[4550.58 --> 4551.04] Enemies -[4551.04 --> 4551.22] Of -[4551.22 --> 4551.50] God -[4551.50 --> 4551.70] In -[4551.70 --> 4551.90] This -[4551.90 --> 4552.24] World -[4552.24 --> 4552.90] And -[4552.90 --> 4553.06] You -[4553.06 --> 4553.46] Still -[4553.46 --> 4553.78] Think -[4553.78 --> 4554.08] That's -[4554.08 --> 4554.28] All -[4554.28 --> 4554.62] Right -[4554.62 --> 4557.54] You -[4557.54 --> 4557.88] Still -[4557.88 --> 4558.18] Think -[4558.18 --> 4558.46] That's -[4558.46 --> 4558.90] Okay -[4558.90 --> 4560.50] Some -[4560.50 --> 4560.62] Of -[4560.62 --> 4560.70] You -[4560.70 --> 4560.86] Have -[4560.86 --> 4561.12] Given -[4561.12 --> 4561.40] Up -[4561.40 --> 4561.66] Trying -[4561.66 --> 4561.84] To -[4561.84 --> 4562.12] Fight -[4562.12 --> 4562.48] Sin -[4562.48 --> 4562.98] All -[4562.98 --> 4563.44] Together -[4563.44 --> 4570.38] And -[4570.38 --> 4570.74] Please -[4570.74 --> 4575.38] Don't -[4575.38 --> 4575.50] Hear -[4575.50 --> 4575.74] My -[4575.74 --> 4576.16] Judgment -[4576.16 --> 4576.42] In -[4576.42 --> 4576.72] That -[4576.72 --> 4579.30] Hear -[4579.30 --> 4579.48] My -[4579.48 --> 4579.74] Heart -[4579.74 --> 4580.10] Break -[4580.10 --> 4583.34] I -[4583.34 --> 4583.50] Want -[4583.50 --> 4583.76] More -[4583.76 --> 4583.98] For -[4583.98 --> 4584.28] You -[4584.28 --> 4585.16] Than -[4585.16 --> 4585.44] That -[4585.44 --> 4586.54] God -[4586.54 --> 4586.80] Wants -[4586.80 --> 4587.06] More -[4587.06 --> 4587.30] For -[4587.30 --> 4587.56] You -[4587.56 --> 4588.06] Than -[4588.06 --> 4588.36] That -[4588.36 --> 4589.20] And -[4589.20 --> 4589.32] Yet -[4589.32 --> 4589.44] We -[4589.44 --> 4589.74] So -[4589.74 --> 4590.26] Easily -[4590.26 --> 4590.90] Accept -[4590.90 --> 4591.12] It -[4591.12 --> 4591.46] As -[4591.46 --> 4591.60] The -[4591.60 --> 4591.80] Only -[4591.80 --> 4592.02] Way -[4592.02 --> 4592.16] We -[4592.16 --> 4592.28] Can -[4592.28 --> 4592.46] Be -[4592.46 --> 4594.10] We -[4594.10 --> 4594.26] So -[4594.26 --> 4594.58] Easily -[4594.58 --> 4595.04] Return -[4595.04 --> 4595.56] To -[4595.56 --> 4595.74] That -[4595.74 --> 4596.16] Idea -[4596.16 --> 4596.42] That -[4596.42 --> 4596.84] Behavior -[4596.84 --> 4597.38] That -[4597.38 --> 4597.94] Website -[4597.94 --> 4598.28] That -[4598.28 --> 4598.60] Thing -[4598.60 --> 4598.82] That -[4598.82 --> 4599.24] Person -[4599.24 --> 4599.84] Whatever -[4599.84 --> 4600.16] It -[4600.16 --> 4600.42] Is -[4600.42 --> 4600.68] For -[4600.68 --> 4600.82] You -[4600.82 --> 4600.96] We -[4600.96 --> 4601.26] So -[4601.26 --> 4601.62] Easily -[4601.62 --> 4601.86] Come -[4601.86 --> 4602.08] Back -[4602.08 --> 4602.28] There -[4602.28 --> 4602.60] And -[4602.60 --> 4602.78] Get -[4602.78 --> 4603.14] Stuck -[4603.14 --> 4603.38] There -[4603.38 --> 4603.78] Because -[4603.78 --> 4603.98] We -[4603.98 --> 4604.36] Don't -[4604.36 --> 4604.98] Think -[4604.98 --> 4605.38] It's -[4605.38 --> 4605.80] Possible -[4605.80 --> 4606.22] To -[4606.22 --> 4606.64] Change -[4606.64 --> 4606.82] But -[4606.82 --> 4607.12] Here's -[4607.12 --> 4607.24] The -[4607.24 --> 4607.48] Thing -[4607.48 --> 4607.78] That -[4607.78 --> 4608.08] Change -[4608.08 --> 4608.28] Isn't -[4608.28 --> 4608.46] On -[4608.46 --> 4608.76] You -[4608.76 --> 4610.34] That's -[4610.34 --> 4610.68] For -[4610.68 --> 4610.94] You -[4610.94 --> 4611.12] And -[4611.12 --> 4611.34] Given -[4611.34 --> 4611.68] To -[4611.68 --> 4612.18] You -[4612.18 --> 4621.22] Instead -[4621.22 --> 4623.80] Instead -[4623.80 --> 4624.24] What -[4624.24 --> 4626.86] What if -[4626.86 --> 4628.18] Imagine -[4628.18 --> 4629.34] If -[4629.34 --> 4632.42] Imagine -[4632.42 --> 4632.78] If -[4632.78 --> 4634.10] We -[4634.10 --> 4638.46] Imagine -[4638.46 --> 4638.74] If -[4638.74 --> 4639.04] We -[4639.04 --> 4640.00] Gained -[4640.00 --> 4640.38] Access -[4640.38 --> 4640.66] By -[4640.66 --> 4641.04] Faith -[4641.04 --> 4641.36] Into -[4641.36 --> 4641.54] The -[4641.54 --> 4641.86] Grace -[4641.86 --> 4642.10] In -[4642.10 --> 4642.26] Which -[4642.26 --> 4642.40] We -[4642.40 --> 4642.60] Now -[4642.60 --> 4643.00] Stand -[4643.00 --> 4643.80] And -[4643.80 --> 4644.08] We -[4644.08 --> 4644.82] Together -[4644.82 --> 4645.96] Boast -[4645.96 --> 4646.76] In -[4646.76 --> 4647.02] The -[4647.02 --> 4647.60] Hope -[4647.60 --> 4648.22] Of -[4648.22 --> 4648.40] The -[4648.40 --> 4648.94] Glory -[4648.94 --> 4649.84] Of -[4649.84 --> 4650.32] God -[4650.32 --> 4653.44] And -[4653.44 --> 4653.74] Since -[4653.74 --> 4654.46] Justification -[4654.46 --> 4654.74] Is -[4654.74 --> 4654.92] By -[4654.92 --> 4655.24] Grace -[4655.24 --> 4655.48] Through -[4655.48 --> 4655.78] Faith -[4655.78 --> 4655.96] The -[4655.96 --> 4656.30] Believer -[4656.30 --> 4656.50] Has -[4656.50 --> 4657.14] Peace -[4657.14 --> 4657.36] With -[4657.36 --> 4657.80] God -[4657.80 --> 4658.54] And -[4658.54 --> 4658.76] We -[4658.76 --> 4658.92] Have -[4658.92 --> 4659.32] Hope -[4659.32 --> 4659.72] In -[4659.72 --> 4659.88] The -[4659.88 --> 4660.34] Glory -[4660.34 --> 4660.90] Of -[4660.90 --> 4661.22] God -[4661.22 --> 4661.38] And -[4661.38 --> 4661.76] The -[4661.76 --> 4662.08] First -[4662.08 --> 4662.54] Reason -[4662.54 --> 4662.86] Why -[4662.86 --> 4663.74] Hope -[4663.74 --> 4663.96] In -[4663.96 --> 4664.08] The -[4664.08 --> 4664.30] Glory -[4664.30 --> 4664.46] Of -[4664.46 --> 4664.64] God -[4664.64 --> 4664.84] Is -[4664.84 --> 4665.06] So -[4665.06 --> 4665.64] Powerful -[4665.64 --> 4665.88] In -[4665.88 --> 4666.00] The -[4666.00 --> 4666.26] Life -[4666.26 --> 4666.48] Of -[4666.48 --> 4666.76] The -[4666.76 --> 4667.14] Believer -[4667.14 --> 4667.54] Is -[4667.54 --> 4667.82] Because -[4667.82 --> 4668.68] Everything -[4668.68 --> 4669.08] Hear -[4669.08 --> 4669.32] That -[4669.32 --> 4670.16] Everything -[4670.16 --> 4670.68] That -[4670.68 --> 4670.94] God -[4670.94 --> 4671.28] Does -[4671.28 --> 4676.82] Is -[4676.82 --> 4677.26] For -[4677.26 --> 4677.86] His -[4677.86 --> 4678.40] Own -[4678.40 --> 4679.08] Glory -[4679.08 --> 4680.86] Now I -[4680.86 --> 4681.20] Know for -[4681.20 --> 4681.52] Some of you -[4681.52 --> 4681.82] That might -[4681.82 --> 4682.36] Sound like a -[4682.36 --> 4682.74] Conceited -[4682.74 --> 4683.26] Reality -[4683.26 --> 4684.28] That -[4684.28 --> 4684.46] Might -[4684.46 --> 4684.66] Sound -[4684.66 --> 4684.80] Like -[4684.80 --> 4684.88] A -[4684.88 --> 4685.02] Pretty -[4685.02 --> 4685.32] Narrow -[4685.32 --> 4685.74] Focused -[4685.74 --> 4686.56] Approach -[4686.56 --> 4686.70] To -[4686.70 --> 4687.06] History -[4687.06 --> 4687.48] And -[4687.48 --> 4687.68] Yet -[4687.68 --> 4688.18] If -[4688.18 --> 4688.46] It -[4688.46 --> 4688.68] Is -[4688.68 --> 4689.10] True -[4689.10 --> 4689.62] That -[4689.62 --> 4689.86] God -[4689.86 --> 4690.14] Is -[4690.14 --> 4690.32] Who -[4690.32 --> 4690.50] He -[4690.50 --> 4690.74] Said -[4690.74 --> 4690.90] He -[4690.90 --> 4691.12] Is -[4691.12 --> 4691.58] If -[4691.58 --> 4691.84] The -[4691.84 --> 4692.10] God -[4692.10 --> 4692.28] Of -[4692.28 --> 4692.42] The -[4692.42 --> 4692.74] Bible -[4692.74 --> 4693.06] Is -[4693.06 --> 4693.26] The -[4693.26 --> 4693.68] Actual -[4693.68 --> 4694.06] God -[4694.06 --> 4694.28] Of -[4694.28 --> 4694.44] The -[4694.44 --> 4694.70] World -[4694.70 --> 4694.92] And -[4694.92 --> 4695.06] Is -[4695.06 --> 4695.70] Revealed -[4695.70 --> 4695.90] To -[4695.90 --> 4696.12] Us -[4696.12 --> 4696.36] In -[4696.36 --> 4696.68] Truth -[4696.68 --> 4697.18] Here -[4697.18 --> 4697.52] Then -[4697.52 --> 4697.64] It -[4697.64 --> 4698.02] Only -[4698.02 --> 4698.38] Makes -[4698.38 --> 4699.06] Sense -[4699.06 --> 4700.84] That -[4700.84 --> 4701.20] All -[4701.20 --> 4701.38] Of -[4701.38 --> 4701.86] History -[4701.86 --> 4702.88] Is -[4702.88 --> 4703.22] Focused -[4703.22 --> 4703.46] On -[4703.46 --> 4703.64] His -[4703.64 --> 4704.06] Glory -[4704.06 --> 4704.66] That -[4704.66 --> 4704.84] All -[4704.84 --> 4704.96] Of -[4704.96 --> 4705.12] His -[4705.12 --> 4705.36] Work -[4705.36 --> 4705.48] In -[4705.48 --> 4705.58] The -[4705.58 --> 4705.82] World -[4705.82 --> 4706.04] Is -[4706.04 --> 4706.36] Focused -[4706.36 --> 4706.82] On -[4706.82 --> 4707.12] His -[4707.12 --> 4707.72] Glory -[4707.72 --> 4707.94] It -[4707.94 --> 4708.26] Only -[4708.26 --> 4708.54] Makes -[4708.54 --> 4708.88] Sense -[4708.88 --> 4709.08] That -[4709.08 --> 4709.54] Everything -[4709.54 --> 4710.16] That -[4710.16 --> 4710.38] Is -[4710.38 --> 4710.78] Done -[4710.78 --> 4711.18] God -[4711.18 --> 4711.62] Does -[4711.62 --> 4712.04] For -[4712.04 --> 4712.22] His -[4712.22 --> 4712.54] Glory -[4712.54 --> 4712.76] Right -[4712.76 --> 4713.10] Over -[4713.10 --> 4713.50] And -[4713.50 --> 4713.76] Over -[4713.76 --> 4713.98] And -[4713.98 --> 4714.30] Over -[4714.30 --> 4714.72] Again -[4714.72 --> 4715.14] In -[4715.14 --> 4715.26] The -[4715.26 --> 4715.50] Bible -[4715.50 --> 4715.62] And -[4715.62 --> 4715.70] You -[4715.70 --> 4715.82] Can -[4715.82 --> 4715.98] Take -[4715.98 --> 4716.18] This -[4716.18 --> 4716.36] One -[4716.36 --> 4716.48] And -[4716.48 --> 4716.88] Tested -[4716.88 --> 4717.14] To -[4717.14 --> 4717.68] Right -[4717.68 --> 4718.16] Over -[4718.16 --> 4718.36] And -[4718.36 --> 4718.56] Over -[4718.56 --> 4718.96] Again -[4718.96 --> 4719.14] In -[4719.14 --> 4719.24] The -[4719.24 --> 4719.48] Bible -[4719.48 --> 4719.84] God -[4719.84 --> 4720.26] Says -[4720.26 --> 4721.20] For -[4721.20 --> 4721.50] My -[4721.50 --> 4721.78] Name -[4721.78 --> 4722.20] Sake -[4722.20 --> 4722.66] Do -[4722.66 --> 4722.80] I -[4722.80 --> 4722.94] Do -[4722.94 --> 4723.22] This -[4723.22 --> 4723.50] Thing -[4723.50 --> 4724.24] To -[4724.24 --> 4724.44] Make -[4724.44 --> 4724.72] My -[4724.72 --> 4724.94] Name -[4724.94 --> 4725.24] Great -[4725.24 --> 4725.58] Among -[4725.58 --> 4725.82] You -[4725.82 --> 4726.04] Do -[4726.04 --> 4726.18] I -[4726.18 --> 4726.34] Do -[4726.34 --> 4726.62] This -[4726.62 --> 4726.92] Thing -[4726.92 --> 4727.52] For -[4727.52 --> 4727.80] My -[4727.80 --> 4728.06] Own -[4728.06 --> 4728.58] Glory -[4728.58 --> 4729.04] Do -[4729.04 --> 4729.18] I -[4729.18 --> 4729.32] Do -[4729.32 --> 4729.54] This -[4729.54 --> 4729.76] Thing -[4729.76 --> 4729.96] I -[4729.96 --> 4730.20] Will -[4730.20 --> 4730.44] Not -[4730.44 --> 4730.80] Yield -[4730.80 --> 4731.04] My -[4731.04 --> 4731.50] Glory -[4731.50 --> 4731.86] To -[4731.86 --> 4732.32] Another -[4732.32 --> 4732.90] God -[4732.90 --> 4733.12] Says -[4733.12 --> 4733.46] On -[4733.46 --> 4733.82] And -[4733.82 --> 4734.04] On -[4734.04 --> 4734.22] And -[4734.22 --> 4734.46] On -[4734.46 --> 4734.62] He -[4734.62 --> 4735.00] Goes -[4735.00 --> 4736.90] Now -[4736.90 --> 4737.18] Perhaps -[4737.18 --> 4737.96] In -[4737.96 --> 4738.38] History -[4738.38 --> 4738.82] In -[4738.82 --> 4739.14] English -[4739.14 --> 4739.64] History -[4739.64 --> 4740.04] Anyway -[4740.04 --> 4740.72] No -[4740.72 --> 4740.98] Two -[4740.98 --> 4741.26] People -[4741.26 --> 4741.44] Have -[4741.44 --> 4741.80] Captured -[4741.80 --> 4742.04] This -[4742.04 --> 4742.36] More -[4742.36 --> 4742.58] Than -[4742.58 --> 4742.94] Jonathan -[4742.94 --> 4743.42] Edwards -[4743.42 --> 4743.98] In -[4743.98 --> 4744.08] The -[4744.08 --> 4744.42] Eighteenth -[4744.42 --> 4744.82] Century -[4744.82 --> 4745.06] And -[4745.06 --> 4745.30] John -[4745.30 --> 4745.80] Piper -[4745.80 --> 4746.54] In -[4746.54 --> 4746.64] The -[4746.64 --> 4747.06] Twentieth -[4747.06 --> 4747.46] John -[4747.46 --> 4747.76] Piper -[4747.76 --> 4748.22] Says -[4748.22 --> 4749.68] God's -[4749.68 --> 4750.22] Supreme -[4750.22 --> 4750.74] Goal -[4750.74 --> 4751.00] In -[4751.00 --> 4751.58] History -[4751.58 --> 4752.10] In -[4752.10 --> 4752.40] All -[4752.40 --> 4752.58] That -[4752.58 --> 4752.70] He -[4752.70 --> 4753.04] Does -[4753.04 --> 4753.28] From -[4753.28 --> 4753.66] Beginning -[4753.66 --> 4753.98] To -[4753.98 --> 4754.32] End -[4754.32 --> 4754.56] Is -[4754.56 --> 4754.72] To -[4754.72 --> 4755.28] Display -[4755.28 --> 4755.66] His -[4755.66 --> 4756.14] Glory -[4756.14 --> 4756.64] And -[4756.64 --> 4756.84] Bring -[4756.84 --> 4757.22] Honor -[4757.22 --> 4757.50] And -[4757.50 --> 4757.98] Praise -[4757.98 --> 4758.48] To -[4758.48 --> 4758.84] His -[4758.84 --> 4759.48] Great -[4759.48 --> 4760.10] Name -[4760.10 --> 4764.54] God's -[4764.54 --> 4765.04] Glory -[4765.04 --> 4766.48] At -[4766.48 --> 4766.68] The -[4766.68 --> 4767.10] End -[4767.10 --> 4767.30] Of -[4767.30 --> 4767.92] History -[4767.92 --> 4769.24] Is -[4769.24 --> 4769.72] Already -[4769.72 --> 4770.52] Guaranteed -[4770.52 --> 4772.26] It -[4772.26 --> 4772.42] Was -[4772.42 --> 4773.18] Guaranteed -[4773.18 --> 4773.52] Before -[4773.52 --> 4773.90] He -[4773.90 --> 4774.34] Spoke -[4774.34 --> 4774.80] The -[4774.80 --> 4775.12] First -[4775.12 --> 4775.62] Words -[4775.62 --> 4775.82] Of -[4775.82 --> 4776.34] Creation -[4776.34 --> 4779.80] That's -[4779.80 --> 4779.98] The -[4779.98 --> 4780.62] Difference -[4780.62 --> 4781.68] Right -[4781.68 --> 4782.04] Between -[4782.04 --> 4782.94] Hoping -[4782.94 --> 4783.16] In -[4783.16 --> 4783.32] The -[4783.32 --> 4783.72] Glory -[4783.72 --> 4784.02] Of -[4784.02 --> 4784.50] God -[4784.50 --> 4785.16] Than -[4785.16 --> 4785.66] Hope -[4785.66 --> 4785.94] In -[4785.94 --> 4786.06] The -[4786.06 --> 4786.22] More -[4786.22 --> 4786.68] Common -[4786.68 --> 4787.20] Sense -[4787.20 --> 4787.50] Way -[4787.50 --> 4787.70] That -[4787.70 --> 4787.82] We -[4787.82 --> 4788.04] Use -[4788.04 --> 4788.20] It -[4788.20 --> 4788.58] In -[4788.58 --> 4789.08] English -[4789.08 --> 4789.90] Because -[4789.90 --> 4790.24] Hope -[4790.24 --> 4790.46] In -[4790.46 --> 4790.88] English -[4790.88 --> 4791.38] Can -[4791.38 --> 4792.00] Kind -[4792.00 --> 4792.18] Of -[4792.18 --> 4792.38] Be -[4792.38 --> 4792.64] A -[4792.64 --> 4792.96] Weak -[4792.96 --> 4793.62] Word -[4793.62 --> 4794.06] Right -[4794.06 --> 4794.26] It's -[4794.26 --> 4794.62] Something -[4794.62 --> 4794.90] We -[4794.90 --> 4795.24] Want -[4795.24 --> 4795.46] It's -[4795.46 --> 4795.56] A -[4795.56 --> 4795.98] Desire -[4795.98 --> 4796.24] For -[4796.24 --> 4796.82] Something -[4796.82 --> 4797.04] To -[4797.04 --> 4797.42] Happen -[4797.42 --> 4797.78] But -[4797.78 --> 4797.88] We're -[4797.88 --> 4798.06] Not -[4798.06 --> 4798.58] Certain -[4798.58 --> 4798.84] That -[4798.84 --> 4798.98] It -[4798.98 --> 4799.28] Will -[4799.28 --> 4800.82] Right -[4800.82 --> 4801.04] The -[4801.04 --> 4801.32] Word -[4801.32 --> 4801.70] Hope -[4801.70 --> 4801.98] In -[4801.98 --> 4802.48] Greek -[4802.48 --> 4803.22] Can -[4803.22 --> 4803.64] Also -[4803.64 --> 4804.04] Mean -[4804.04 --> 4804.92] Conviction -[4804.92 --> 4806.04] Right -[4806.04 --> 4806.56] Christian -[4806.56 --> 4806.98] Hope -[4806.98 --> 4807.58] Isn't -[4807.58 --> 4807.88] A -[4807.88 --> 4808.32] Wish -[4808.32 --> 4808.84] That -[4808.84 --> 4809.04] We -[4809.04 --> 4809.62] Hope -[4809.62 --> 4810.26] Right -[4810.26 --> 4810.54] Might -[4810.54 --> 4810.78] Come -[4810.78 --> 4811.18] True -[4811.18 --> 4812.02] Christian -[4812.02 --> 4812.36] Hope -[4812.36 --> 4812.54] The -[4812.54 --> 4812.80] Hope -[4812.80 --> 4812.92] Of -[4812.92 --> 4813.04] The -[4813.04 --> 4813.34] Glory -[4813.34 --> 4813.58] Of -[4813.58 --> 4813.96] God -[4813.96 --> 4814.38] Is -[4814.38 --> 4814.54] A -[4814.54 --> 4814.84] Hope -[4814.84 --> 4815.56] Filled -[4815.56 --> 4816.76] Certainty -[4816.76 --> 4818.08] And -[4818.08 --> 4818.10] And -[4818.10 --> 4818.22] You -[4818.22 --> 4818.38] Can -[4818.38 --> 4818.56] Be -[4818.56 --> 4819.02] Certain -[4819.02 --> 4819.34] That -[4819.34 --> 4819.50] Your -[4819.50 --> 4819.80] Hope -[4819.80 --> 4820.04] Is -[4820.04 --> 4821.08] Guaranteed -[4821.08 --> 4821.78] Because -[4821.78 --> 4822.08] Of -[4822.08 --> 4822.22] The -[4822.22 --> 4822.72] Resurrection -[4822.72 --> 4822.96] Of -[4822.96 --> 4823.30] Jesus -[4823.30 --> 4825.12] And -[4825.12 --> 4825.24] Then -[4825.24 --> 4825.52] This -[4825.52 --> 4826.12] Future -[4826.12 --> 4826.58] Glory -[4826.58 --> 4826.84] Of -[4826.84 --> 4827.20] God -[4827.20 --> 4827.70] In -[4827.70 --> 4828.00] In -[4828.00 --> 4829.14] Our -[4829.14 --> 4829.60] Life -[4829.60 --> 4829.80] And -[4829.80 --> 4829.92] In -[4829.92 --> 4830.02] The -[4830.02 --> 4830.22] World -[4830.22 --> 4830.54] Today -[4830.54 --> 4830.86] Has -[4830.86 --> 4831.18] This -[4831.18 --> 4832.02] Beautiful -[4832.02 --> 4832.74] And -[4832.74 --> 4833.78] Mysterious -[4833.78 --> 4834.18] Way -[4834.18 --> 4834.44] Of -[4834.44 --> 4835.28] Working -[4835.28 --> 4836.08] Itself -[4836.08 --> 4837.08] Backwards -[4837.08 --> 4837.70] Through -[4837.70 --> 4838.44] History -[4838.44 --> 4838.78] To -[4838.78 --> 4839.04] Give -[4839.04 --> 4839.24] You -[4839.24 --> 4839.76] Hope -[4839.76 --> 4840.74] Now -[4840.74 --> 4842.64] Right -[4842.64 --> 4843.84] Precisely -[4843.84 --> 4844.48] Because -[4844.48 --> 4844.84] The -[4844.84 --> 4845.36] Future -[4845.36 --> 4845.74] Is -[4845.74 --> 4846.44] Certain -[4846.44 --> 4847.68] You -[4847.68 --> 4847.82] Can -[4847.82 --> 4848.00] Have -[4848.00 --> 4848.42] Hope -[4848.42 --> 4849.46] Now -[4849.46 --> 4849.74] This -[4849.74 --> 4849.86] Is -[4849.86 --> 4850.02] The -[4850.02 --> 4850.32] Movement -[4850.32 --> 4850.62] Of -[4850.62 --> 4851.54] Verse -[4851.54 --> 4852.24] Three -[4852.24 --> 4854.96] We -[4854.96 --> 4855.40] Boast -[4855.40 --> 4855.56] In -[4855.56 --> 4855.68] The -[4855.68 --> 4855.90] Hope -[4855.90 --> 4856.08] Of -[4856.08 --> 4856.20] The -[4856.20 --> 4856.46] Glory -[4856.46 --> 4856.68] Of -[4856.68 --> 4857.06] God -[4857.06 --> 4857.36] So -[4857.36 --> 4857.54] Hear -[4857.54 --> 4857.78] That -[4857.78 --> 4858.16] Hope -[4858.16 --> 4858.70] And -[4858.70 --> 4858.98] Glory -[4858.98 --> 4859.16] Of -[4859.16 --> 4859.40] God -[4859.40 --> 4859.56] Are -[4859.56 --> 4860.14] Connected -[4860.14 --> 4860.54] But -[4860.54 --> 4860.74] Not -[4860.74 --> 4861.08] Only -[4861.08 --> 4861.46] So -[4861.46 --> 4861.70] We -[4861.70 --> 4862.12] Also -[4862.12 --> 4862.88] Glory -[4862.88 --> 4864.64] Right -[4864.64 --> 4864.88] There's -[4864.88 --> 4865.02] A -[4865.02 --> 4865.48] Tensional -[4865.48 --> 4866.06] Repetition -[4866.06 --> 4866.88] In -[4866.88 --> 4867.16] Our -[4867.16 --> 4868.16] Sufferings -[4868.16 --> 4869.24] Because -[4869.24 --> 4869.46] We -[4869.46 --> 4869.74] Know -[4869.74 --> 4870.00] That -[4870.00 --> 4870.60] Suffering -[4870.60 --> 4871.18] Produces -[4871.18 --> 4872.16] Perseverance -[4872.16 --> 4873.24] Perseverance -[4873.24 --> 4873.94] Character -[4873.94 --> 4874.66] And -[4874.66 --> 4875.24] Character -[4875.24 --> 4876.42] Hope -[4876.42 --> 4878.18] I -[4878.18 --> 4878.28] Think -[4878.28 --> 4878.38] We -[4878.38 --> 4878.48] Have -[4878.48 --> 4878.58] An -[4878.58 --> 4878.80] Image -[4878.80 --> 4878.98] For -[4878.98 --> 4879.22] This -[4879.22 --> 4880.82] We -[4880.82 --> 4881.26] Hope -[4881.26 --> 4881.52] In -[4881.52 --> 4881.66] The -[4881.66 --> 4881.94] Glory -[4881.94 --> 4882.18] Of -[4882.18 --> 4882.50] God -[4882.50 --> 4884.62] And -[4884.62 --> 4884.76] Then -[4884.76 --> 4885.04] Even -[4885.04 --> 4885.24] Though -[4885.24 --> 4885.42] We -[4885.42 --> 4885.78] Suffer -[4885.78 --> 4885.94] That -[4885.94 --> 4886.30] Produces -[4886.30 --> 4887.00] Perseverance -[4887.00 --> 4887.66] Perseverance -[4887.66 --> 4888.04] Produces -[4888.04 --> 4888.48] Character -[4888.48 --> 4888.92] Character -[4888.92 --> 4889.36] Produces -[4889.36 --> 4889.70] Hope -[4889.70 --> 4890.16] And -[4890.16 --> 4890.28] Then -[4890.28 --> 4890.42] We're -[4890.42 --> 4890.84] Back -[4890.84 --> 4891.40] At -[4891.40 --> 4891.52] The -[4891.52 --> 4891.74] Glory -[4891.74 --> 4891.92] Of -[4891.92 --> 4892.24] God -[4892.24 --> 4894.30] For -[4894.30 --> 4894.38] For -[4894.38 --> 4894.40] God -[4894.40 --> 4894.44] For -[4894.44 --> 4895.00] God -[4895.00 --> 4896.34] For -[4896.34 --> 4896.44] God -[4896.44 --> 4898.38] For -[4898.38 --> 4898.56] The -[4898.56 --> 4898.88] End -[4898.88 --> 4899.28] And -[4899.28 --> 4899.48] He's -[4899.48 --> 4899.70] Made -[4899.70 --> 4899.82] It -[4899.82 --> 4900.58] Imminent -[4900.58 --> 4901.48] Here -[4901.48 --> 4901.76] And -[4901.76 --> 4902.12] Now -[4902.12 --> 4902.40] For -[4902.40 --> 4902.80] Whatever -[4902.80 --> 4903.16] It -[4903.16 --> 4903.52] Is -[4903.52 --> 4903.94] That -[4903.94 --> 4904.12] You -[4904.12 --> 4904.28] Are -[4904.28 --> 4904.38] In -[4904.38 --> 4904.50] The -[4904.50 --> 4904.68] Middle -[4904.68 --> 4904.96] Of -[4904.96 --> 4905.78] Whatever -[4905.78 --> 4906.12] It -[4906.12 --> 4906.32] Is -[4906.32 --> 4906.48] That -[4906.48 --> 4906.60] You -[4906.60 --> 4906.76] Are -[4906.76 --> 4907.56] Struggling -[4907.56 --> 4908.50] With -[4908.50 --> 4909.90] The -[4909.90 --> 4910.30] Reason -[4910.30 --> 4910.56] We -[4910.56 --> 4910.82] Have -[4910.82 --> 4911.14] Hope -[4911.14 --> 4911.40] In -[4911.40 --> 4911.68] Our -[4911.68 --> 4912.18] Present -[4912.18 --> 4912.90] Sufferings -[4912.90 --> 4913.34] Is -[4913.34 --> 4913.66] Because -[4913.66 --> 4913.88] Of -[4913.88 --> 4914.00] The -[4914.00 --> 4914.24] Way -[4914.24 --> 4914.70] It -[4914.70 --> 4915.16] Ties -[4915.16 --> 4915.68] Back -[4915.68 --> 4916.24] To -[4916.24 --> 4916.40] The -[4916.40 --> 4916.68] Hope -[4916.68 --> 4916.88] Of -[4916.88 --> 4917.02] The -[4917.02 --> 4917.28] Glory -[4917.28 --> 4917.48] Of -[4917.48 --> 4917.76] God -[4917.76 --> 4918.18] For -[4918.18 --> 4918.32] The -[4918.32 --> 4918.58] End -[4918.58 --> 4919.06] Hope -[4919.06 --> 4919.60] For -[4919.60 --> 4919.78] The -[4919.78 --> 4920.20] End -[4920.20 --> 4920.96] Produces -[4920.96 --> 4921.46] Hope -[4921.46 --> 4922.20] For -[4922.20 --> 4922.60] Today -[4922.60 --> 4925.02] This -[4925.02 --> 4925.12] Is -[4925.12 --> 4925.26] The -[4925.26 --> 4925.46] Same -[4925.46 --> 4925.74] Point -[4925.74 --> 4925.92] That -[4925.92 --> 4926.24] C.S. -[4926.30 --> 4926.46] Lewis -[4926.46 --> 4926.82] Makes -[4926.82 --> 4927.72] In -[4927.72 --> 4927.86] His -[4927.86 --> 4928.12] Great -[4928.12 --> 4928.36] Work -[4928.36 --> 4928.70] Called -[4928.70 --> 4929.12] The -[4929.12 --> 4929.32] Great -[4929.32 --> 4929.82] Divorce -[4929.82 --> 4930.54] He -[4930.54 --> 4930.84] Writes -[4930.84 --> 4932.46] This -[4932.46 --> 4932.74] Is -[4932.74 --> 4932.96] What -[4932.96 --> 4933.44] Mortals -[4933.44 --> 4934.44] Misunderstand -[4934.44 --> 4935.32] They -[4935.32 --> 4935.72] Say -[4935.72 --> 4935.94] Of -[4935.94 --> 4936.22] Some -[4936.22 --> 4936.86] Temporal -[4936.86 --> 4937.34] Suffering -[4937.34 --> 4937.54] No -[4937.54 --> 4937.96] Future -[4937.96 --> 4938.28] Bliss -[4938.28 --> 4938.48] Can -[4938.48 --> 4938.68] Make -[4938.68 --> 4938.82] Up -[4938.82 --> 4939.04] For -[4939.04 --> 4939.18] It -[4939.18 --> 4939.62] Not -[4939.62 --> 4939.94] Knowing -[4939.94 --> 4940.16] That -[4940.16 --> 4940.48] Heaven -[4940.48 --> 4940.84] Once -[4940.84 --> 4941.28] Attained -[4941.28 --> 4941.72] Will -[4941.72 --> 4941.96] Work -[4941.96 --> 4942.58] Backwards -[4942.58 --> 4942.80] And -[4942.80 --> 4943.10] Turn -[4943.10 --> 4943.58] Even -[4943.58 --> 4944.08] That -[4944.08 --> 4944.76] Agony -[4944.76 --> 4945.70] Into -[4945.70 --> 4946.56] A -[4946.56 --> 4946.94] Glory -[4946.94 --> 4949.34] And -[4949.34 --> 4949.50] So -[4949.50 --> 4949.68] As -[4949.68 --> 4949.82] You -[4949.82 --> 4950.04] Sit -[4950.04 --> 4950.26] Here -[4950.26 --> 4950.48] Whether -[4950.48 --> 4950.66] You -[4950.66 --> 4950.78] Are -[4950.78 --> 4950.98] Going -[4950.98 --> 4951.16] To -[4951.16 --> 4951.62] Mexico -[4951.62 --> 4952.36] This -[4952.36 --> 4952.62] Week -[4952.62 --> 4952.78] Or -[4952.78 --> 4952.90] You -[4952.90 --> 4953.04] Are -[4953.04 --> 4953.22] Going -[4953.22 --> 4953.40] To -[4953.40 --> 4953.74] Work -[4953.74 --> 4954.36] This -[4954.36 --> 4954.58] Week -[4954.58 --> 4954.78] Whether -[4954.78 --> 4954.96] You -[4954.96 --> 4955.08] Are -[4955.08 --> 4955.34] On -[4955.34 --> 4955.60] March -[4955.60 --> 4955.96] Break -[4955.96 --> 4956.26] This -[4956.26 --> 4956.50] Week -[4956.50 --> 4956.68] Or -[4956.68 --> 4956.88] You -[4956.88 --> 4957.08] Are -[4957.08 --> 4957.72] Sad -[4957.72 --> 4957.88] That -[4957.88 --> 4957.98] You're -[4957.98 --> 4958.32] Not -[4958.32 --> 4960.56] Whether -[4960.56 --> 4960.78] You -[4960.78 --> 4960.90] Are -[4960.90 --> 4961.06] In -[4961.06 --> 4961.18] The -[4961.18 --> 4961.80] Darkest -[4961.80 --> 4962.16] Night -[4962.16 --> 4962.38] Of -[4962.38 --> 4962.58] The -[4962.58 --> 4963.10] Soul -[4963.10 --> 4963.60] Whether -[4963.60 --> 4963.72] You -[4963.72 --> 4963.84] Are -[4963.84 --> 4964.16] Facing -[4964.16 --> 4964.70] Trauma -[4964.70 --> 4965.10] Whether -[4965.10 --> 4965.28] You -[4965.28 --> 4965.40] Are -[4965.40 --> 4965.60] Being -[4965.60 --> 4966.20] Oppressed -[4966.20 --> 4966.70] On -[4966.70 --> 4966.98] All -[4966.98 --> 4967.46] Sides -[4967.46 --> 4968.06] The -[4968.06 --> 4968.46] Truth -[4968.46 --> 4968.66] Of -[4968.66 --> 4968.80] The -[4968.80 --> 4969.26] Gospel -[4969.26 --> 4969.70] Is -[4969.70 --> 4970.22] Peace -[4970.22 --> 4970.76] With -[4970.76 --> 4971.18] God -[4971.18 --> 4971.52] Made -[4971.52 --> 4972.00] Possible -[4972.00 --> 4972.38] Through -[4972.38 --> 4973.24] Justification -[4973.24 --> 4973.76] By -[4973.76 --> 4974.12] Grace -[4974.12 --> 4974.46] Alone -[4974.46 --> 4974.90] Through -[4974.90 --> 4975.24] Faith -[4975.24 --> 4975.52] Alone -[4975.52 --> 4975.70] And -[4975.70 --> 4975.84] The -[4975.84 --> 4976.32] Believer -[4976.32 --> 4976.58] Who -[4976.58 --> 4977.02] Knows -[4977.02 --> 4977.70] Peace -[4977.70 --> 4978.04] With -[4978.04 --> 4978.46] God -[4978.46 --> 4978.84] As -[4978.84 --> 4979.02] An -[4979.02 --> 4979.74] Objective -[4979.74 --> 4980.36] Reality -[4980.36 --> 4981.06] Can -[4981.06 --> 4981.44] Have -[4981.44 --> 4982.10] Hope -[4982.10 --> 4982.96] Today -[4982.96 --> 4983.64] In -[4983.64 --> 4984.22] History -[4984.22 --> 4985.44] No -[4985.44 --> 4985.68] Matter -[4985.68 --> 4986.02] What -[4986.02 --> 4987.10] No -[4987.10 --> 4987.32] Matter -[4987.32 --> 4987.82] Where -[4987.82 --> 4988.76] God -[4988.76 --> 4989.18] Is -[4989.18 --> 4989.64] With -[4989.64 --> 4989.96] You -[4989.96 --> 4991.00] Guiding -[4991.00 --> 4991.84] History -[4991.84 --> 4992.12] To -[4992.12 --> 4992.32] The -[4992.32 --> 4992.74] End -[4992.74 --> 4993.08] Of -[4993.08 --> 4993.50] His -[4993.50 --> 4994.10] Own -[4994.10 --> 4994.90] Glory -[4994.90 --> 4995.78] That -[4995.78 --> 4996.62] Is -[4996.62 --> 4997.84] Fixed -[4997.84 --> 4998.62] And -[4998.62 --> 4999.60] Sure -[4999.60 --> 5003.06] I -[5003.06 --> 5003.18] Need -[5003.18 --> 5003.28] An -[5003.28 --> 5003.52] Amen -[5003.52 --> 5005.26] I -[5005.26 --> 5005.40] Need -[5005.40 --> 5005.48] A -[5005.48 --> 5005.60] Better -[5005.60 --> 5005.82] Amen -[5005.82 --> 5005.98] Than -[5005.98 --> 5006.18] That -[5006.18 --> 5007.88] That -[5007.88 --> 5008.12] Is -[5008.12 --> 5008.56] Fixed -[5008.56 --> 5008.76] And -[5008.76 --> 5009.08] Sure -[5009.08 --> 5009.28] And -[5009.28 --> 5009.38] So -[5009.38 --> 5009.54] Now -[5009.54 --> 5009.70] As -[5009.70 --> 5009.86] We -[5009.86 --> 5010.08] Come -[5010.08 --> 5010.24] To -[5010.24 --> 5010.40] The -[5010.40 --> 5010.78] Table -[5010.78 --> 5013.14] You -[5013.14 --> 5013.40] Come -[5013.40 --> 5013.62] With -[5013.62 --> 5013.78] Your -[5013.78 --> 5014.28] Doubts -[5014.28 --> 5015.72] You -[5015.72 --> 5015.98] Come -[5015.98 --> 5016.18] With -[5016.18 --> 5016.32] Your -[5016.32 --> 5016.90] Struggles -[5016.90 --> 5017.38] You -[5017.38 --> 5017.62] Come -[5017.62 --> 5017.84] With -[5017.84 --> 5018.00] Your -[5018.00 --> 5018.52] Hardships -[5018.52 --> 5018.70] As -[5018.70 --> 5018.86] We -[5018.86 --> 5019.08] Come -[5019.08 --> 5019.22] To -[5019.22 --> 5019.36] The -[5019.36 --> 5019.76] Table -[5019.76 --> 5020.22] You -[5020.22 --> 5020.46] Come -[5020.46 --> 5020.60] With -[5020.60 --> 5020.72] Your -[5020.72 --> 5021.14] Questions -[5021.14 --> 5021.64] And -[5021.64 --> 5021.80] Your -[5021.80 --> 5022.42] Confusions -[5022.42 --> 5022.96] Because -[5022.96 --> 5024.06] God -[5024.06 --> 5024.82] Is -[5024.82 --> 5025.72] Certain -[5025.72 --> 5028.20] And -[5028.20 --> 5028.60] Here -[5028.60 --> 5029.88] Your -[5029.88 --> 5030.18] Faith -[5030.18 --> 5030.40] Can -[5030.40 --> 5030.50] Be -[5030.50 --> 5030.70] Made -[5030.70 --> 5030.84] A -[5030.84 --> 5030.96] Little -[5030.96 --> 5031.12] Bit -[5031.12 --> 5031.34] More -[5031.34 --> 5031.90] Real -[5031.90 --> 5033.48] Here -[5033.48 --> 5034.24] The -[5034.24 --> 5034.68] Truth -[5034.68 --> 5034.90] Of -[5034.90 --> 5035.04] Who -[5035.04 --> 5035.24] God -[5035.24 --> 5035.52] Is -[5035.52 --> 5035.74] Can -[5035.74 --> 5035.90] Be -[5035.90 --> 5036.18] Something -[5036.18 --> 5036.44] You -[5036.44 --> 5036.72] Hang -[5036.72 --> 5037.00] On -[5037.00 --> 5037.28] To -[5037.28 --> 5037.84] And -[5037.84 --> 5038.22] Take -[5038.22 --> 5038.94] In -[5038.94 --> 5039.66] Here -[5039.66 --> 5040.68] Jesus -[5040.68 --> 5041.40] Is -[5041.40 --> 5042.20] Offered -[5042.20 --> 5042.70] In -[5042.70 --> 5042.90] A -[5042.90 --> 5043.46] Real -[5043.46 --> 5044.06] And -[5044.06 --> 5045.14] Mysterious -[5045.14 --> 5045.84] Way -[5045.84 --> 5048.42] Here -[5048.42 --> 5049.66] Our -[5049.66 --> 5050.42] Doxology -[5050.42 --> 5051.98] Begins -[5051.98 --> 5053.50] Amen -[5053.50 --> 5054.56] Let's -[5054.56 --> 5054.68] Pray -[5054.68 --> 5055.04] Together -[5055.04 --> 5059.38] Holy -[5059.38 --> 5059.72] God -[5059.72 --> 5059.92] We -[5059.92 --> 5060.52] Praise -[5060.52 --> 5061.04] Your -[5061.04 --> 5061.80] Name -[5061.80 --> 5063.70] We -[5063.70 --> 5064.14] Praise -[5064.14 --> 5064.38] Your -[5064.38 --> 5064.68] Name -[5064.68 --> 5064.88] For -[5064.88 --> 5065.04] The -[5065.04 --> 5065.48] Truth -[5065.48 --> 5065.70] Of -[5065.70 --> 5065.84] Who -[5065.84 --> 5066.02] You -[5066.02 --> 5066.30] Are -[5066.30 --> 5066.74] For -[5066.74 --> 5066.88] The -[5066.88 --> 5067.14] Truth -[5067.14 --> 5067.28] Of -[5067.28 --> 5067.40] How -[5067.40 --> 5067.54] You -[5067.54 --> 5067.66] Have -[5067.66 --> 5068.16] Revealed -[5068.16 --> 5068.76] Yourself -[5068.76 --> 5069.24] In -[5069.24 --> 5069.34] The -[5069.34 --> 5069.62] World -[5069.62 --> 5069.80] And -[5069.80 --> 5069.96] We -[5069.96 --> 5070.32] Praise -[5070.32 --> 5070.50] Your -[5070.50 --> 5070.82] Name -[5070.82 --> 5071.02] That -[5071.02 --> 5071.30] Now -[5071.30 --> 5071.48] We -[5071.48 --> 5071.66] Might -[5071.66 --> 5071.94] Come -[5071.94 --> 5072.12] To -[5072.12 --> 5072.32] This -[5072.32 --> 5072.74] Table -[5072.74 --> 5073.26] To -[5073.26 --> 5073.88] Receive -[5073.88 --> 5074.20] You -[5074.20 --> 5074.92] Here -[5074.92 --> 5076.58] Open -[5076.58 --> 5077.08] Our -[5077.08 --> 5077.76] Eyes -[5077.76 --> 5078.28] To -[5078.28 --> 5078.98] Your -[5078.98 --> 5079.76] Grace -[5079.76 --> 5080.62] Today -[5080.62 --> 5081.78] Open -[5081.78 --> 5082.00] Our -[5082.00 --> 5082.34] Hearts -[5082.34 --> 5082.56] To -[5082.56 --> 5083.24] Receive -[5083.24 --> 5083.96] From -[5083.96 --> 5084.42] You -[5084.42 --> 5085.52] This -[5085.52 --> 5086.66] True -[5086.66 --> 5087.74] Presence -[5087.74 --> 5089.02] Open -[5089.02 --> 5089.54] Us -[5089.54 --> 5089.94] Up -[5089.94 --> 5090.38] To -[5090.38 --> 5091.26] Your -[5091.26 --> 5092.64] Presence -[5092.64 --> 5093.46] Now -[5093.46 --> 5094.02] At -[5094.02 --> 5094.30] The -[5094.30 --> 5094.70] Table -[5094.70 --> 5095.38] Together -[5095.38 --> 5096.62] In -[5096.62 --> 5097.00] Jesus -[5097.00 --> 5097.58] Christ -[5097.58 --> 5098.24] We -[5098.24 --> 5098.52] Pray -[5098.52 --> 5099.92] Amen -[5099.92 --> 5106.40] As -[5106.40 --> 5106.60] We -[5106.60 --> 5107.02] Come -[5107.02 --> 5107.18] To -[5107.18 --> 5107.32] The -[5107.32 --> 5107.62] Table -[5107.62 --> 5107.86] We're -[5107.86 --> 5107.94] Going -[5107.94 --> 5108.04] To -[5108.04 --> 5108.30] Move -[5108.30 --> 5108.68] Through -[5108.68 --> 5109.16] A -[5109.16 --> 5109.30] Little -[5109.30 --> 5109.48] Bit -[5109.48 --> 5109.64] Of -[5109.64 --> 5109.78] A -[5109.78 --> 5110.26] Liturgy -[5110.26 --> 5111.04] That -[5111.04 --> 5111.20] We -[5111.20 --> 5111.56] Have -[5111.56 --> 5111.72] It -[5111.72 --> 5111.86] Will -[5111.86 --> 5111.98] Be -[5111.98 --> 5112.18] On -[5112.18 --> 5112.34] The -[5112.34 --> 5112.68] Screen -[5112.68 --> 5113.00] Behind -[5113.00 --> 5113.26] Me -[5113.26 --> 5113.44] You -[5113.44 --> 5113.58] Are -[5113.58 --> 5114.04] Encouraged -[5114.04 --> 5114.22] To -[5114.22 --> 5114.44] Speak -[5114.44 --> 5114.64] The -[5114.64 --> 5114.98] Parts -[5114.98 --> 5115.16] There -[5115.16 --> 5115.38] That -[5115.38 --> 5116.00] Are -[5116.00 --> 5116.52] Indicated -[5116.52 --> 5116.78] For -[5116.78 --> 5116.92] You -[5116.92 --> 5117.10] To -[5117.10 --> 5117.26] Do -[5117.26 --> 5117.54] So -[5117.54 --> 5119.34] As -[5119.34 --> 5119.52] We -[5119.52 --> 5119.78] Come -[5119.78 --> 5119.94] To -[5119.94 --> 5120.06] The -[5120.06 --> 5120.34] Table -[5120.34 --> 5120.56] We -[5120.56 --> 5120.92] Come -[5120.92 --> 5121.62] To -[5121.62 --> 5122.06] Be -[5122.06 --> 5122.46] Met -[5122.46 --> 5122.94] By -[5122.94 --> 5123.52] God -[5123.52 --> 5124.00] Here -[5124.00 --> 5124.34] And -[5124.34 --> 5124.68] So -[5124.68 --> 5125.80] We -[5125.80 --> 5126.46] Lift -[5126.46 --> 5127.06] Up -[5127.06 --> 5127.86] Your -[5127.86 --> 5128.38] Hearts -[5128.38 --> 5131.74] Let -[5131.74 --> 5131.88] Us -[5131.88 --> 5132.06] Give -[5132.06 --> 5132.42] Thanks -[5132.42 --> 5132.60] To -[5132.60 --> 5132.74] The -[5132.74 --> 5133.02] Lord -[5133.02 --> 5133.30] Our -[5133.30 --> 5133.64] God -[5133.64 --> 5137.42] Let's -[5137.42 --> 5137.62] Pray -[5137.62 --> 5139.58] With -[5139.58 --> 5139.98] Joy -[5139.98 --> 5140.26] We -[5140.26 --> 5140.72] Praise -[5140.72 --> 5141.06] You -[5141.06 --> 5141.74] Gracious -[5141.74 --> 5142.26] God -[5142.26 --> 5143.04] For -[5143.04 --> 5143.24] You -[5143.24 --> 5143.44] Have -[5143.44 --> 5143.92] Created -[5143.92 --> 5144.26] Heaven -[5144.26 --> 5144.50] And -[5144.50 --> 5144.78] Earth -[5144.78 --> 5144.92] You -[5144.92 --> 5145.06] Have -[5145.06 --> 5145.26] Made -[5145.26 --> 5145.48] Us -[5145.48 --> 5145.66] In -[5145.66 --> 5145.80] Your -[5145.80 --> 5146.10] Image -[5146.10 --> 5146.34] And -[5146.34 --> 5146.62] Kept -[5146.62 --> 5147.06] Covenant -[5147.06 --> 5147.34] With -[5147.34 --> 5147.54] Us -[5147.54 --> 5148.20] Even -[5148.20 --> 5148.58] When -[5148.58 --> 5148.78] We -[5148.78 --> 5149.14] Fell -[5149.14 --> 5149.50] Into -[5149.50 --> 5149.88] Sin -[5149.88 --> 5151.42] We -[5151.42 --> 5151.64] Give -[5151.64 --> 5151.80] You -[5151.80 --> 5152.22] Thanks -[5152.22 --> 5152.46] For -[5152.46 --> 5152.78] Jesus -[5152.78 --> 5153.32] Christ -[5153.32 --> 5153.54] Who -[5153.54 --> 5153.76] By -[5153.76 --> 5154.00] His -[5154.00 --> 5154.36] Life -[5154.36 --> 5154.72] Death -[5154.72 --> 5155.18] And -[5155.18 --> 5155.72] Resurrection -[5155.72 --> 5156.18] Open -[5156.18 --> 5156.44] To -[5156.44 --> 5156.78] Us -[5158.38 --> 5159.40] Life -[5159.40 --> 5160.50] Amen -[5160.50 --> 5164.38] Our -[5164.38 --> 5164.62] Lord -[5164.62 --> 5165.08] Jesus -[5165.08 --> 5166.04] Before -[5166.04 --> 5166.58] He -[5166.58 --> 5167.42] Suffered -[5167.42 --> 5168.16] Gave -[5168.16 --> 5168.46] Us -[5168.46 --> 5168.82] This -[5168.82 --> 5169.42] Memorial -[5169.42 --> 5169.94] Of -[5169.94 --> 5170.18] His -[5170.18 --> 5170.92] Sacrifice -[5170.92 --> 5171.70] Until -[5171.70 --> 5171.94] He -[5171.94 --> 5172.24] Comes -[5172.24 --> 5172.56] Again -[5172.56 --> 5174.00] The -[5174.00 --> 5174.18] Lord -[5174.18 --> 5174.52] Jesus -[5174.52 --> 5174.86] On -[5174.86 --> 5174.96] The -[5174.96 --> 5175.14] Night -[5175.14 --> 5175.30] That -[5175.30 --> 5175.42] He -[5175.42 --> 5175.64] Was -[5175.64 --> 5176.40] Betrayed -[5176.40 --> 5176.86] That -[5176.86 --> 5177.14] Took -[5177.14 --> 5177.58] Bread -[5177.58 --> 5179.04] And -[5179.04 --> 5179.16] When -[5179.16 --> 5179.24] He -[5179.24 --> 5179.36] Had -[5179.36 --> 5179.54] Given -[5179.54 --> 5180.18] Thanks -[5180.18 --> 5180.84] He -[5180.84 --> 5181.18] Broke -[5181.18 --> 5181.38] It -[5181.38 --> 5181.74] And -[5181.74 --> 5181.96] Said -[5181.96 --> 5182.32] This -[5182.32 --> 5182.86] Is -[5182.86 --> 5183.44] My -[5183.44 --> 5183.88] Body -[5183.88 --> 5184.32] Which -[5184.32 --> 5184.52] Is -[5184.52 --> 5184.72] For -[5184.72 --> 5184.98] You -[5184.98 --> 5185.72] Do -[5185.72 --> 5186.20] This -[5186.20 --> 5186.52] In -[5186.52 --> 5187.20] Remembrance -[5187.20 --> 5187.74] Of -[5187.74 --> 5188.00] Me -[5188.00 --> 5190.76] In -[5190.76 --> 5190.90] The -[5190.90 --> 5191.14] Same -[5191.14 --> 5191.54] Way -[5191.54 --> 5192.14] He -[5192.14 --> 5192.34] Took -[5192.34 --> 5192.52] The -[5192.52 --> 5192.82] Cup -[5192.82 --> 5193.40] After -[5193.40 --> 5193.82] Supper -[5193.82 --> 5194.18] Saying -[5194.18 --> 5194.84] This -[5194.84 --> 5195.28] Cup -[5195.28 --> 5195.62] Is -[5195.62 --> 5195.82] The -[5195.82 --> 5196.00] New -[5196.00 --> 5196.42] Covenant -[5196.42 --> 5197.04] In -[5197.04 --> 5197.24] My -[5197.24 --> 5197.64] Blood -[5197.64 --> 5198.96] Do -[5198.96 --> 5199.46] This -[5199.46 --> 5200.58] Whenever -[5200.58 --> 5200.88] You -[5200.88 --> 5201.16] Drink -[5201.16 --> 5201.38] It -[5201.38 --> 5201.90] In -[5201.90 --> 5202.54] Remembrance -[5202.54 --> 5203.32] Of -[5203.32 --> 5203.58] Me -[5203.58 --> 5204.64] For -[5204.64 --> 5204.88] Whenever -[5204.88 --> 5205.10] You -[5205.10 --> 5205.30] Eat -[5205.30 --> 5205.58] This -[5205.58 --> 5205.92] Bread -[5205.92 --> 5206.24] And -[5206.24 --> 5206.54] Drink -[5206.54 --> 5206.86] This -[5206.86 --> 5207.18] Cup -[5207.18 --> 5207.40] You -[5207.40 --> 5208.02] Proclaim -[5208.02 --> 5208.24] The -[5208.24 --> 5208.66] Lord's -[5208.66 --> 5209.06] Death -[5209.06 --> 5209.84] Until -[5209.84 --> 5210.46] He -[5210.46 --> 5211.26] Comes -[5211.26 --> 5211.84] Again -[5211.84 --> 5213.42] This -[5213.42 --> 5214.00] Is -[5214.00 --> 5214.26] The -[5214.26 --> 5215.02] Mystery -[5215.02 --> 5215.64] Of -[5215.64 --> 5216.06] Our -[5216.06 --> 5216.68] Faith -[5216.68 --> 5218.88] Our -[5218.88 --> 5219.14] Death -[5219.14 --> 5219.38] O -[5219.38 --> 5219.80] Christ -[5219.80 --> 5220.16] We -[5220.16 --> 5220.64] Proclaim -[5220.64 --> 5221.84] Your -[5221.84 --> 5222.40] Resurrection -[5222.40 --> 5222.98] We -[5222.98 --> 5223.42] Affirm -[5223.42 --> 5231.42] Church -[5231.42 --> 5231.74] Family -[5231.74 --> 5232.46] The -[5232.46 --> 5232.72] Lord -[5232.72 --> 5232.92] Has -[5232.92 --> 5233.44] Prepared -[5233.44 --> 5233.68] His -[5233.68 --> 5234.00] Table -[5234.00 --> 5234.24] For -[5234.24 --> 5234.60] All -[5234.60 --> 5234.92] Who -[5234.92 --> 5235.50] Love -[5235.50 --> 5235.82] Him -[5235.82 --> 5236.06] And -[5236.06 --> 5236.42] Trust -[5236.42 --> 5236.66] In -[5236.66 --> 5236.92] Him -[5236.92 --> 5237.44] Alone -[5237.44 --> 5237.80] For -[5237.80 --> 5238.08] Their -[5238.08 --> 5239.00] Salvation -[5239.00 --> 5239.56] And -[5239.56 --> 5239.74] So -[5239.74 --> 5240.12] Come -[5240.12 --> 5240.42] To -[5240.42 --> 5240.74] This -[5240.74 --> 5241.14] Table -[5241.14 --> 5241.68] You -[5241.68 --> 5241.96] Who -[5241.96 --> 5242.30] Have -[5242.30 --> 5242.70] Much -[5242.70 --> 5243.18] Faith -[5243.18 --> 5243.46] And -[5243.46 --> 5243.66] You -[5243.66 --> 5243.84] Who -[5243.84 --> 5244.12] Have -[5244.12 --> 5244.74] Many -[5244.74 --> 5245.44] Questions -[5245.44 --> 5246.10] Come -[5246.10 --> 5246.30] To -[5246.30 --> 5246.50] This -[5246.50 --> 5246.78] Table -[5246.78 --> 5247.02] You -[5247.02 --> 5247.22] Who -[5247.22 --> 5247.38] Have -[5247.38 --> 5247.52] Been -[5247.52 --> 5247.66] To -[5247.66 --> 5247.82] The -[5247.82 --> 5248.24] Sacrament -[5248.24 --> 5248.98] Often -[5248.98 --> 5249.44] And -[5249.44 --> 5249.62] You -[5249.62 --> 5249.80] Who -[5249.80 --> 5249.98] Have -[5249.98 --> 5250.22] Not -[5250.22 --> 5250.46] Been -[5250.46 --> 5250.78] For -[5250.78 --> 5251.02] A -[5251.02 --> 5251.26] Long -[5251.26 --> 5251.68] Time -[5251.68 --> 5252.20] Come -[5252.20 --> 5252.38] To -[5252.38 --> 5252.58] This -[5252.58 --> 5252.88] Table -[5252.88 --> 5253.18] You -[5253.18 --> 5253.40] Who -[5253.40 --> 5253.52] Have -[5253.52 --> 5253.88] Tried -[5253.88 --> 5254.12] To -[5254.12 --> 5254.44] Follow -[5254.44 --> 5255.10] Jesus -[5255.10 --> 5255.58] And -[5255.58 --> 5255.80] You -[5255.80 --> 5256.06] Who -[5256.06 --> 5256.40] Have -[5256.40 --> 5257.08] Failed -[5257.08 --> 5257.46] Come -[5257.46 --> 5257.70] To -[5257.70 --> 5257.96] This -[5257.96 --> 5258.30] Table -[5258.30 --> 5258.68] Because -[5258.68 --> 5259.12] Jesus -[5259.12 --> 5259.82] Christ -[5259.82 --> 5260.60] Is -[5260.60 --> 5261.58] Raised -[5261.58 --> 5263.52] Come -[5263.52 --> 5264.36] If -[5264.36 --> 5264.50] You -[5264.50 --> 5264.64] Are -[5264.64 --> 5265.04] Here -[5265.04 --> 5265.78] Or -[5265.78 --> 5265.90] If -[5265.90 --> 5266.00] You -[5266.00 --> 5266.12] Are -[5266.12 --> 5266.26] At -[5266.26 --> 5266.54] Home -[5266.54 --> 5266.78] And -[5266.78 --> 5267.28] Online -[5267.28 --> 5268.12] Come -[5268.12 --> 5268.76] Because -[5268.76 --> 5268.92] It -[5268.92 --> 5269.06] Is -[5269.06 --> 5269.62] Christ -[5269.62 --> 5270.18] Himself -[5270.18 --> 5270.70] Who -[5270.70 --> 5271.20] Invites -[5271.20 --> 5271.58] Us -[5271.58 --> 5272.02] And -[5272.02 --> 5272.52] Carries -[5274.74 --> 5275.16] Presence -[5275.16 --> 5275.78] Together -[5275.78 --> 5277.60] The -[5277.60 --> 5277.84] Gifts -[5277.84 --> 5278.02] Of -[5278.02 --> 5278.34] God -[5278.34 --> 5279.30] For -[5279.30 --> 5279.42] The -[5279.42 --> 5279.68] People -[5279.68 --> 5279.88] Of -[5279.88 --> 5280.16] God -[5280.16 --> 5282.54] As -[5282.54 --> 5282.68] We -[5282.68 --> 5282.88] Come -[5282.88 --> 5283.00] To -[5283.00 --> 5283.18] This -[5283.18 --> 5283.42] Table -[5283.42 --> 5283.66] We're -[5283.66 --> 5283.76] Going -[5283.76 --> 5283.84] To -[5283.84 --> 5284.28] Invite -[5284.28 --> 5285.04] The -[5285.04 --> 5285.78] Elders -[5285.78 --> 5286.00] And -[5286.00 --> 5286.14] The -[5286.14 --> 5286.38] Worship -[5286.38 --> 5286.74] Team -[5286.74 --> 5287.32] And -[5287.32 --> 5287.52] Those -[5287.52 --> 5287.64] Who -[5287.64 --> 5287.76] Are -[5287.76 --> 5288.34] Involved -[5288.34 --> 5288.50] In -[5288.50 --> 5288.64] The -[5288.64 --> 5288.92] Service -[5288.92 --> 5289.12] To -[5289.12 --> 5289.34] Come -[5289.34 --> 5289.54] Up -[5289.54 --> 5289.92] First -[5289.92 --> 5290.82] We -[5290.82 --> 5290.94] Will -[5290.94 --> 5291.18] Gather -[5291.18 --> 5291.60] Around -[5291.60 --> 5291.80] The -[5291.80 --> 5292.10] Table -[5292.10 --> 5292.92] We -[5292.92 --> 5293.08] Will -[5293.08 --> 5293.40] Serve -[5293.40 --> 5293.68] Them -[5293.68 --> 5294.68] As -[5294.68 --> 5294.84] We -[5294.84 --> 5295.24] Serve -[5295.24 --> 5295.48] The -[5295.48 --> 5295.84] Bread -[5295.84 --> 5296.36] I -[5296.36 --> 5296.70] Encourage -[5296.70 --> 5296.86] You -[5296.86 --> 5297.02] To -[5297.02 --> 5297.22] Take -[5297.22 --> 5297.36] The -[5297.36 --> 5297.64] Tray -[5297.64 --> 5297.84] And -[5297.84 --> 5298.12] Pass -[5298.12 --> 5298.24] It -[5298.24 --> 5298.34] To -[5298.34 --> 5298.46] The -[5298.46 --> 5298.72] Person -[5298.72 --> 5299.00] Next -[5299.00 --> 5299.18] To -[5299.18 --> 5299.32] You -[5299.32 --> 5299.52] And -[5299.52 --> 5299.82] Say -[5299.82 --> 5300.26] The -[5300.26 --> 5300.58] Body -[5300.58 --> 5300.82] Of -[5300.82 --> 5301.20] Christ -[5301.20 --> 5301.50] Given -[5301.50 --> 5301.74] For -[5301.74 --> 5301.96] You -[5301.96 --> 5302.62] Likewise -[5302.62 --> 5303.18] With -[5303.18 --> 5303.44] The -[5303.44 --> 5304.14] Juice -[5304.14 --> 5304.56] As -[5304.56 --> 5304.68] You -[5304.68 --> 5304.92] Take -[5304.92 --> 5305.08] The -[5305.08 --> 5305.34] Tray -[5305.34 --> 5305.54] And -[5305.54 --> 5305.82] Pass -[5305.82 --> 5305.92] It -[5305.92 --> 5306.02] To -[5306.02 --> 5306.12] The -[5306.12 --> 5306.44] Person -[5306.44 --> 5307.04] Next -[5307.04 --> 5307.24] From -[5307.24 --> 5307.38] You -[5307.38 --> 5307.60] Say -[5307.60 --> 5307.76] The -[5307.76 --> 5308.08] Blood -[5308.08 --> 5308.32] Of -[5308.32 --> 5308.78] Christ -[5308.78 --> 5309.28] Shed -[5309.28 --> 5309.60] For -[5309.60 --> 5309.80] You -[5309.80 --> 5310.84] Following -[5310.84 --> 5311.16] The -[5311.16 --> 5311.56] First -[5311.56 --> 5312.10] Serving -[5312.10 --> 5312.32] Of -[5312.32 --> 5312.46] The -[5312.46 --> 5312.80] Table -[5312.80 --> 5313.06] We -[5313.06 --> 5313.28] Have -[5313.28 --> 5313.74] Elders -[5313.74 --> 5313.94] Who -[5313.94 --> 5314.14] Will -[5314.14 --> 5314.90] Indicate -[5314.90 --> 5315.24] Which -[5315.24 --> 5315.58] Rose -[5315.58 --> 5315.78] To -[5315.78 --> 5316.08] Come -[5316.08 --> 5316.94] Up -[5316.94 --> 5317.14] And -[5317.14 --> 5317.40] When -[5317.40 --> 5317.98] And -[5317.98 --> 5318.10] Then -[5318.10 --> 5318.28] You -[5318.28 --> 5318.46] Two -[5318.46 --> 5318.70] Can -[5318.70 --> 5318.90] Come -[5318.90 --> 5319.06] Up -[5319.06 --> 5319.26] Here -[5319.26 --> 5319.58] And -[5319.58 --> 5319.74] The -[5319.74 --> 5320.08] Worship -[5320.08 --> 5320.42] Team -[5320.42 --> 5320.68] Will -[5320.68 --> 5320.86] Lead -[5320.86 --> 5321.16] Us -[5321.16 --> 5321.66] In -[5321.66 --> 5321.86] Our -[5329.32 --> 5329.78] Volunteers -[5329.78 --> 5329.94] And -[5329.94 --> 5330.40] Elders -[5330.40 --> 5330.92] Who -[5330.92 --> 5331.02] Are -[5331.02 --> 5331.26] Helping -[5331.26 --> 5331.60] Serve -[5331.60 --> 5331.82] Up -[5331.82 --> 5331.96] To -[5331.96 --> 5332.08] The -[5332.08 --> 5332.32] Front -[5332.32 --> 5340.86] As -[5340.86 --> 5341.06] This -[5341.06 --> 5341.30] Group -[5341.30 --> 5341.56] Makes -[5341.56 --> 5341.72] Its -[5341.72 --> 5341.92] Way -[5341.92 --> 5342.18] Up -[5342.18 --> 5342.42] If -[5342.42 --> 5342.62] You -[5342.62 --> 5342.82] Are -[5342.82 --> 5343.44] Unable -[5343.44 --> 5343.68] To -[5343.68 --> 5343.92] Come -[5343.92 --> 5344.12] To -[5344.12 --> 5344.24] The -[5344.24 --> 5344.60] Front -[5344.60 --> 5345.20] But -[5345.20 --> 5345.36] Would -[5345.36 --> 5345.60] Like -[5345.60 --> 5345.92] To -[5345.92 --> 5347.16] Participate -[5347.16 --> 5347.26] In -[5347.26 --> 5347.38] The -[5347.38 --> 5347.62] Supper -[5347.62 --> 5347.92] Please -[5347.92 --> 5348.18] Just -[5348.18 --> 5348.70] Indicate -[5348.70 --> 5349.02] To -[5349.02 --> 5349.20] The -[5349.20 --> 5349.62] Usher -[5349.62 --> 5350.20] Elders -[5350.20 --> 5350.46] As -[5350.46 --> 5350.62] They -[5350.62 --> 5350.84] Are -[5350.84 --> 5351.42] Working -[5351.42 --> 5351.62] Their -[5351.62 --> 5351.78] Way -[5351.78 --> 5352.02] Through -[5352.02 --> 5352.28] And -[5352.28 --> 5352.40] They -[5352.40 --> 5352.54] Will -[5352.54 --> 5352.90] Serve -[5352.90 --> 5353.18] You -[5353.18 --> 5353.50] In -[5353.50 --> 5353.68] Your -[5353.68 --> 5354.06] Seats -[5354.06 --> 5354.42] And -[5354.42 --> 5354.60] Make -[5354.60 --> 5354.82] That -[5354.82 --> 5355.20] Available -[5355.20 --> 5355.44] To -[5355.44 --> 5355.58] You -[5355.58 --> 5355.82] There -[5355.82 --> 5356.86] Likewise -[5356.86 --> 5357.44] As -[5357.44 --> 5357.60] We -[5357.60 --> 5357.82] Move -[5357.82 --> 5358.02] Through -[5358.02 --> 5358.30] This -[5358.30 --> 5358.68] Time -[5358.68 --> 5359.04] Together -[5359.04 --> 5359.30] If -[5359.30 --> 5359.42] You -[5359.42 --> 5359.54] Would -[5359.54 --> 5359.70] Like -[5359.70 --> 5359.82] To -[5359.82 --> 5359.96] Be -[5359.96 --> 5360.38] Prayed -[5360.38 --> 5360.64] With -[5360.64 --> 5360.90] Or -[5360.90 --> 5361.26] Prayed -[5361.26 --> 5361.62] Over -[5361.62 --> 5362.30] We -[5362.30 --> 5362.72] Invite -[5362.72 --> 5362.90] You -[5362.90 --> 5363.20] To -[5363.20 --> 5363.80] There's -[5363.80 --> 5364.00] Going -[5364.00 --> 5364.04] To -[5364.04 --> 5364.12] Be -[5364.12 --> 5364.26] Some -[5364.26 --> 5364.54] People -[5364.54 --> 5364.72] In -[5364.72 --> 5364.84] The -[5364.84 --> 5365.20] Foyer -[5365.20 --> 5365.40] They -[5365.40 --> 5365.56] Have -[5365.56 --> 5365.80] Yellow -[5365.80 --> 5366.06] Name -[5366.06 --> 5366.38] Tags -[5366.38 --> 5366.56] On -[5366.56 --> 5366.74] They -[5366.74 --> 5366.92] Would -[5366.92 --> 5367.40] Meet -[5367.40 --> 5367.58] You -[5367.58 --> 5367.78] And -[5367.78 --> 5368.02] Pray -[5368.02 --> 5368.26] With -[5368.26 --> 5368.52] You -[5368.52 --> 5369.24] There -[5369.24 --> 5376.20] Body -[5376.20 --> 5376.38] Of -[5376.38 --> 5376.66] Christ -[5376.66 --> 5377.08] Given -[5377.08 --> 5377.28] For -[5377.28 --> 5377.52] You -[5377.52 --> 5385.52] Body -[5385.52 --> 5385.68] Of -[5385.68 --> 5385.94] Christ -[5385.94 --> 5386.22] Given -[5386.22 --> 5386.42] For -[5386.42 --> 5386.60] You -[5386.60 --> 5398.56] Body -[5398.56 --> 5398.72] Of -[5398.72 --> 5398.96] Christ -[5398.96 --> 5399.20] Given -[5399.20 --> 5399.38] For -[5399.38 --> 5399.56] You -[5399.56 --> 5401.26] Body -[5401.26 --> 5401.44] Of -[5401.44 --> 5401.68] Christ -[5401.68 --> 5401.92] Given -[5401.92 --> 5402.10] For -[5402.10 --> 5402.26] You -[5402.26 --> 5424.22] Eat -[5424.22 --> 5424.94] And -[5424.94 --> 5425.38] Remember -[5425.38 --> 5443.54] Blood -[5443.54 --> 5443.70] Of -[5443.70 --> 5443.94] Christ -[5443.94 --> 5444.22] Shed -[5444.22 --> 5444.38] For -[5444.38 --> 5444.60] You -[5444.60 --> 5448.72] Blood -[5448.72 --> 5448.88] Of -[5448.88 --> 5449.10] Christ -[5449.10 --> 5449.36] Shed -[5449.36 --> 5449.50] For -[5449.50 --> 5449.66] You -[5449.66 --> 5458.56] Blood -[5458.56 --> 5458.70] Of -[5458.70 --> 5458.98] Christ -[5458.98 --> 5459.30] Shed -[5459.30 --> 5459.46] For -[5459.46 --> 5459.66] You -[5459.66 --> 5460.92] Blood -[5460.92 --> 5462.28] Of -[5462.28 --> 5462.54] Christ -[5462.54 --> 5462.84] Shed -[5462.84 --> 5462.98] For -[5462.98 --> 5463.16] You -[5463.16 --> 5464.24] Love -[5464.24 --> 5477.30] Like -[5477.30 --> 5477.52] Shadow -[5477.52 --> 5478.72] Cos -[5478.72 --> 5479.50] She -[5479.50 --> 5481.00] OS -[5481.00 --> 5481.42] sacred -[5481.42 --> 5481.64] Attack -[5481.64 --> 5484.12] She -[5484.48 --> 5484.92] were -[5484.92 --> 5485.38] ивает -[5485.38 --> 5487.42] On -[5487.50 --> 5488.92] ご -[5489.66 --> 5489.82] manure -[5489.82 --> 5505.38] Drink and believe. -[5519.82 --> 5549.80] Thank you. -[5549.82 --> 5579.80] Thank you. -[5579.82 --> 5587.48] Behold the Lamb who bears our sins always slain for us. -[5588.42 --> 5602.10] And we remember the promise made that all who come in faith find forgiveness at the cross. -[5602.10 --> 5624.10] So we share in this bread of life and we drink of his sacrifice as a sign of our bonds of peace around the table of the King. -[5624.10 --> 5626.10] Amen. -[5626.10 --> 5628.10] Amen. -[5628.10 --> 5629.10] Amen. -[5629.10 --> 5630.10] Amen. -[5630.10 --> 5632.10] Amen. -[5632.10 --> 5634.10] Amen. -[5634.10 --> 5664.10] -[5664.10 --> 5694.10] -[5694.10 --> 5696.10] Amen. -[5696.10 --> 5698.10] Amen. -[5698.10 --> 5700.10] Amen. -[5700.10 --> 5702.10] Amen. -[5702.10 --> 5703.10] Amen. -[5703.10 --> 5704.10] Amen. -[5704.10 --> 5705.10] Amen. -[5705.10 --> 5706.10] Amen. -[5706.10 --> 5712.10] Amen. -[5712.10 --> 5714.10] Amen. -[5714.10 --> 5715.10] Amen. -[5715.10 --> 5716.10] Amen. -[5716.10 --> 5732.50] of life and we drink of his sacrifice as a sign of our bonds of grace around the table of the king -[5732.50 --> 5749.94] and so with thankfulness and faith we rise to respond -[5749.94 --> 5767.30] and to remember our call to follow in the steps of christ as his body here on earth as we share -[5769.22 --> 5778.82] in his suffering we proclaim christ will come again and we'll -[5779.94 --> 5787.94] join in the feast of heaven around the table of the king -[5809.94 --> 5837.94] my lord what love is this that pays so dearly -[5837.94 --> 5845.94] that i the guilty one -[5845.94 --> 5851.94] may go free -[5851.94 --> 5853.94] amazing love -[5853.94 --> 5855.94] oh what sacrifice -[5855.94 --> 5859.94] the son of god -[5859.94 --> 5861.94] is -[5861.94 --> 5867.94] and my death he dies -[5867.94 --> 5873.94] that i might live -[5873.94 --> 5879.94] that i might live -[5879.94 --> 5889.94] and so they watched him die -[5889.94 --> 5891.94] despised -[5891.94 --> 5893.94] rejected -[5893.94 --> 5895.94] rejected -[5895.94 --> 5897.94] but oh -[5897.94 --> 5899.94] the blood -[5899.94 --> 5901.94] he shed -[5901.94 --> 5905.94] flowed for me -[5905.94 --> 5907.94] how amazing -[5907.94 --> 5911.94] oh -[5911.94 --> 5913.94] oh -[5913.94 --> 5915.94] oh -[5915.94 --> 5917.94] oh -[5917.94 --> 5919.94] oh -[5919.94 --> 5921.94] oh -[5921.94 --> 5923.94] oh -[5923.94 --> 5925.94] oh -[5925.94 --> 5931.94] oh -[5931.94 --> 5935.94] oh -[5935.94 --> 5937.94] oh -[5937.94 --> 5939.94] oh -[5939.94 --> 5941.94] oh -[5941.94 --> 5943.94] oh -[5943.94 --> 5945.94] oh -[5945.94 --> 5947.94] oh -[5947.94 --> 5949.94] oh -[5949.94 --> 5959.94] oh -[5959.94 --> 5963.94] oh -[5963.94 --> 5965.94] oh -[5965.94 --> 5967.94] oh -[5967.94 --> 5969.94] oh -[5969.94 --> 5971.94] oh -[5971.94 --> 5973.94] oh -[5973.94 --> 5983.94] oh -[5983.94 --> 5989.94] oh -[5989.94 --> 5990.42] oh -[5990.42 --> 5991.94] oh -[5991.94 --> 5994.42] oh -[5994.42 --> 5994.94] oh -[5994.94 --> 5995.94] oh -[5995.94 --> 5997.94] oh -[5997.94 --> 5998.94] oh -[5998.94 --> 5999.22] oh -[5999.22 --> 5999.94] oh -[5999.94 --> 6001.94] oh -[6001.94 --> 6003.44] oh -[6003.44 --> 6031.24] Father of life, draw me closer. -[6031.24 --> 6038.24] Lord, my heart is set on you. -[6038.24 --> 6045.24] Let me run the race of time with your life unfolding mine, -[6045.24 --> 6052.24] and let the peace of God let it rain. -[6052.24 --> 6058.24] O Holy Spirit, you're my comfort. -[6058.24 --> 6064.24] Strengthen me, hold my head up high, -[6064.24 --> 6070.24] and I'll stand upon your truth, bringing glory unto you, -[6070.24 --> 6077.24] and let the peace of God let it rain. -[6077.24 --> 6083.24] O Lord, I hunger for more of you. -[6083.24 --> 6089.24] Rise up within me, let me know your truth. -[6089.24 --> 6101.24] O Holy Spirit, saturate my soul, and let the life of God heal me now. -[6101.24 --> 6107.24] Let your healing power bring life and make me whole, -[6107.24 --> 6113.24] and let the peace of God let it rain. -[6113.24 --> 6119.24] Father of life, draw me closer. -[6119.24 --> 6125.24] Lord, my heart is set on you. -[6125.24 --> 6131.24] Let me run the race of time with your life unfolding mine, -[6131.24 --> 6137.24] and let the peace of God let it rain. -[6137.24 --> 6144.24] O Holy Spirit, you're my comfort. -[6144.24 --> 6150.24] Strengthen me, hold my head up high, -[6150.24 --> 6156.24] and I'll stand upon your truth, bringing glory unto you, -[6156.24 --> 6163.24] and let the peace of God let it rain. -[6163.24 --> 6169.24] O Lord, I hunger for more of you. -[6169.24 --> 6175.24] Rise up within me, let me know your truth. -[6175.24 --> 6187.24] O Holy Spirit, saturate my soul, and let the life of God fill me now. -[6187.24 --> 6193.24] Let your healing power bring life and make me whole, -[6193.24 --> 6200.24] and let the peace of God let it rain. -[6205.24 --> 6231.24] O Holy Spirit, saturate my soul, and let the peace of God let it rain. -[6231.24 --> 6235.24] What can wash away my sin? -[6235.24 --> 6240.24] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[6240.24 --> 6245.24] What can make me whole again? -[6245.24 --> 6250.24] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[6250.24 --> 6259.24] O precious is the glow that makes me white as snow. -[6259.24 --> 6264.24] No other fount I know. -[6264.24 --> 6269.24] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[6269.24 --> 6277.24] For my pardon this I see. -[6277.24 --> 6282.24] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[6282.24 --> 6287.24] For my cleansing this my plea. -[6287.24 --> 6289.24] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[6289.24 --> 6291.24] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[6291.24 --> 6301.24] O precious is the flow that makes me white as snow. -[6301.24 --> 6302.24] No other fount I know. -[6302.24 --> 6306.24] No other fount I know. -[6306.24 --> 6311.24] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[6311.24 --> 6314.24] O precious is the flow that makes me white as snow. -[6314.24 --> 6315.24] Let the blood of Jesus. -[6315.24 --> 6319.60] Nothing can force it atone, -[6320.08 --> 6323.90] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[6325.04 --> 6329.26] Not of good that I have done, -[6329.26 --> 6333.54] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[6334.70 --> 6338.80] Oh, precious is the flow -[6338.80 --> 6343.56] That makes me white as snow. -[6343.56 --> 6348.34] Of no other fount I know, -[6348.98 --> 6352.68] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[6356.68 --> 6361.80] This is all my hope and peace, -[6362.22 --> 6365.86] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[6366.76 --> 6370.62] This is all my righteousness, -[6370.62 --> 6375.46] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[6376.54 --> 6380.68] Oh, precious is the flow -[6380.68 --> 6385.46] That makes me white as snow. -[6385.46 --> 6390.24] No other fount I know, -[6390.24 --> 6394.48] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[6395.52 --> 6399.80] Oh, precious is the flow -[6399.80 --> 6404.66] That makes me white as snow. -[6404.66 --> 6409.58] No other fount I know, -[6409.58 --> 6414.28] Nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[6414.28 --> 6415.90] nations and the blood of Jesus. -[6415.90 --> 6445.88] My Jesus, I love you. -[6445.90 --> 6451.56] I know thou art mine. -[6452.10 --> 6460.74] For thee all the follies of sin I resign. -[6462.24 --> 6472.12] My gracious Redeemer, my Savior art thou. -[6472.12 --> 6481.72] For if ever I loved thee, my Jesus tis now. -[6481.72 --> 6494.72] I love thee because thou hast first loved me, -[6494.72 --> 6504.72] And purchased my pardon on Calvary's tree. -[6504.72 --> 6516.14] I love thee for wearing the thorns on thy brow. -[6516.14 --> 6527.14] If ever I loved thee, my Jesus tis now. -[6527.14 --> 6539.14] I love thee in life, I will love thee in death, -[6539.14 --> 6550.82] And praise thee as long as thou lendest me breath, -[6550.82 --> 6562.44] And say when the death do lies cold on my brow. -[6562.44 --> 6574.06] If ever I loved thee, my Jesus tis now. -[6574.06 --> 6586.02] In mansions of glory and endless delight, -[6586.02 --> 6597.30] I'll ever adore thee in heaven so bright, -[6597.30 --> 6609.02] I'll sing with a glittering crown on thy brow. -[6609.02 --> 6620.02] If ever I loved thee, my Jesus tis now. -[6620.02 --> 6630.10] Standing together, receive the blessing of our God, -[6630.18 --> 6634.12] Who goes with you into these next days and weeks. -[6634.38 --> 6636.50] Whatever your circumstances may be, -[6636.96 --> 6640.72] Know that God is near at hand. -[6640.72 --> 6645.10] I want to invite you to stick around following our fellowship -[6645.10 --> 6648.78] For a time of coffee and refreshments and the like. -[6648.98 --> 6651.38] Gather in the back, share life and story, -[6651.58 --> 6653.10] Introduce yourself to someone -[6653.10 --> 6656.22] Who you haven't yet done that to in our midst. -[6657.40 --> 6660.02] If you would like to talk to me following the service -[6660.02 --> 6661.94] About something I said this morning, -[6661.94 --> 6664.12] Or if you have questions about life and faith, -[6664.20 --> 6666.62] Or if you're wondering about membership here, -[6667.30 --> 6669.56] I will be at the Connect booth at the back. -[6669.56 --> 6671.04] You can grab me there. -[6671.30 --> 6672.96] I'm going to grab a coffee first though, -[6673.06 --> 6676.24] So I appreciate about 45 seconds of grace to get there. -[6676.74 --> 6678.24] Otherwise you can queue up and I'll be ready. -[6679.28 --> 6681.24] Receive the blessing of our God. -[6684.32 --> 6687.66] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[6688.44 --> 6690.42] The Lord make his face to shine upon you -[6690.42 --> 6692.04] And be gracious to you. -[6692.56 --> 6694.86] The Lord turn his face towards you -[6694.86 --> 6697.88] And give you his peace. -[6698.54 --> 6699.30] Everyone said? -[6699.56 --> 6700.54] Amen. -[6707.60 --> 6708.92] Amen. -[6710.00 --> 6710.30] Amen. -[6710.30 --> 6711.12] Amen. -[6711.12 --> 6712.68] Amen. -[6714.18 --> 6716.74] Amen. -[6716.74 --> 6717.24] Amen. -[6717.24 --> 6717.64] Amen. -[6721.38 --> 6721.70] Amen. -[6721.70 --> 6722.34] Amen. -[6722.34 --> 6722.70] Amen. -[6722.70 --> 6723.04] Amen. -[6723.04 --> 6724.74] Amen. -[6724.74 --> 6735.26] Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, worship his holy name. -[6735.26 --> 6747.36] Sing like never before, O my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[6747.36 --> 6761.36] The sun comes up, it's a new day dawning. It's time to sing your song again. -[6761.36 --> 6774.36] Whatever may pass and whatever lies before me, let me be singing when the evening comes. -[6774.36 --> 6786.22] Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, worship his holy name. -[6786.66 --> 6797.36] Sing like never before, O my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[6797.36 --> 6809.36] Sing like never before, O my soul, worship his holy name. -[6809.36 --> 6812.74] Sing like never before, O my soul, and your heart is great. -[6812.74 --> 6818.86] For all your goodness I will keep on singing. -[6820.36 --> 6826.72] Ten thousand reasons for my heart to find. -[6826.72 --> 6839.72] Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, worship his holy name. -[6839.72 --> 6851.72] Sing like never before, O my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[6851.72 --> 6856.72] Sing like never before, O my soul, worship his holy name. -[6856.72 --> 6867.72] And on that day when my strength is failing, The end draws near and my time has come. -[6867.72 --> 6874.72] And still my soul, and still my soul, will sing your praise unending. -[6874.72 --> 6882.72] Ten thousand years and then forever more. -[6882.72 --> 6884.72] Bless the Lord, O my soul, and still my heart is great. -[6884.72 --> 6894.72] Bless the Lord, O my soul, and still my soul, worship his holy name. -[6894.72 --> 6905.72] Sing like never before, O my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[6905.72 --> 6912.72] I'll worship your holy name. -[6912.72 --> 6921.72] Bless the Lord, O my soul, and still my soul, and still my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[6921.72 --> 6929.80] Oh my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[6930.08 --> 6934.84] I'll worship your holy name. -[6935.56 --> 6941.20] Lord, I'll worship your holy name. -[6951.72 --> 6957.14] Thank you, Lord. -[6957.62 --> 6958.48] Thank you. -[6958.48 --> 6959.96] Thank you. -[6981.72 --> 7011.70] Thank you. -[7011.72 --> 7041.70] Thank you. -[7041.72 --> 7071.70] Thank you. -[7071.72 --> 7073.72] Thank you. -[7073.72 --> 7078.72] Thank you. -[7078.72 --> 7085.72] Thank you. -[7085.72 --> 7087.72] Thank you. -[7087.72 --> 7094.72] Thank you. -[7094.72 --> 7096.72] Thank you. -[7096.72 --> 7098.72] Thank you. -[7098.72 --> 7107.72] Thank you. -[7107.72 --> 7109.72] Thank you. -[7109.72 --> 7111.72] Thank you. -[7128.72 --> 7139.72] Thank you. -[7139.72 --> 7141.72] Thank you. -[7158.72 --> 7174.74] Thanks, Nick. -[7174.74 --> 7176.36] Yeah. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - March 13, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - March 13, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b6873abf039b02b6b6daf1f5334dfbe57e1ba891..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - March 13, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,88 +0,0 @@ -• The speaker addresses God as the one who speaks with power and creation responds -• The beauty of nature is seen as a reflection of God's greatness -• The speaker acknowledges their own failures and shortcomings, but finds comfort in God's love and sacrifice -• The singer praises God for making beautiful things out of dust and bringing life from chaos -• The pastor welcomes the congregation to worship service and encourages them to participate -• The gathering is marked by a sense of excitement and joy, with some attendees still hesitant about returning without masks -• Welcome and community gathering -• Leftover reception food and coffee available after service -• Kids choir announcement for Easter season -• Jared Alkema's outreach trip to Costa Rica and fundraising efforts -• Worship song "It is Good" performed -• Worship song "Lord My Heart Can Grow" performed -• Invocation and worship in God's presence -• Confession of sin and seeking forgiveness -• Redemption through Jesus Christ and the precious blood of his sacrifice -• Call to come to the altar for healing and forgiveness -• Praise and adoration of Jesus as Savior -• Invitation to bring sorrows and trade them for joy -• Testimony from members of the Mexico mission team -• Excitement for upcoming mission trip to Mexico -• Building relationships with people in Mexico, especially youth -• Continuation of previous missions with a focus on building the youth program -• Sharing about past team challenges, including a task involving a hockey stick -• Commissioning and praying over the Mexico mission team -• Prayer for safety and challenges in work -• Prayer for eyes of faith to see God at work -• Equipping people for service and mission -• Blessings and peace for those going on mission -• Worship song about trusting God in uncertain waters -• Announcement of tithes and offerings for church budget and World Renew Ukraine response -• Offering for Life Water Canada -• Giving cheerfully to the community -• Importance of gratitude and generosity -• Personal highlight: speaker's wife got a dog -• Discussion about pets and excitement when coming home -• Introduction to children's worship time -• Discussion of being welcomed home and into children's worship -• Congregational prayer led by Elder Peter, including prayers for: - • Peace in Ukraine - • Jared working in Costa Rica - • Mexico mission team - • Positive change in pandemic restrictions - • Support for those still struggling with the virus - • Blessing of Matt and Nicole's marriage - • Prayers for those not mentioned in bulletin or memo -• Reading from Exodus 23:14-17 -• Celebrate a festival of unleavened bread for seven days at the appointed time in the month of Aviv -• Celebrate the festivals of harvest and ingathering with the first fruits of crops and gathered crops -• Appear before the sovereign Lord three times a year -• Discusses how people's brains are wired to respond to phone notifications, illustrating the power of habits -• Explains that habits can be formed through repetition, creating "grooves" in our lives that steer us along -• References the book of Exodus and God's commandments as examples of how habits can shape our relationship with God and others -• Discussion of principled pluralism in a Reformed theologian's context -• Idea that Christians must allow for different convictions to coexist in society -• Importance of neither secular humanism nor Christianity taking priority over the other -• Explanation of festivals and their significance in ancient Israelite culture -• Connection between festivals, harvest, and God's provision for his people -• Understanding the festivals as celebrations of thanksgiving for God's gifts and blessings -• The three festivals of Unleavened Bread, Harvest, and Ingathering as a rhythm of worshiping life -• Looking back at God's deliverance in Jesus, looking forward to the kingdom come, and looking around at present circumstances -• The Lord's Supper as a meal connected to Passover, proclaiming the Lord's death until he comes again -• The table of the eternal banquet and anticipating that day -• The rhythm of faith in worship, including looking back, looking ahead, and looking around -• Prioritizing rhythm and ritual in encountering Jesus through worship practices -• The importance of spiritual habits and their formative power on a person's thoughts, language, and actions -• A personal anecdote about how listening to conservative and progressive news sources shaped the speaker's own thoughts and language -• The concept that whatever one puts in will come out, regardless of critical faculties -• The idea that rhythms and habits shape cognition and behavior -• Examples of different rhythms and habits, such as working six days and resting on the seventh day -• The importance of self-reflection and examining one's own rhythms and habits to ensure they are drawing closer to God and his church -• Scriptural references to training oneself in godliness and discipline -• Specific biblical instructions for the Christian life, including rejoicing always, praying continually, giving thanks in all circumstances, and following God's will. -• Invitation to come to the Lord's Table -• Reflection on looking back, ahead, and around at Jesus' presence in their lives -• Prayer for nourishment, shaping, and transformation by the renewing of their minds -• Song of response based on Psalm 130 -• Explanation of the sacrament as a remembrance of Christ's death and new covenant -• Invitation to come to the table regardless of past experiences or current situations -• Praise and worship of Jesus Christ as the Lamb of God -• Description of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, including his crucifixion, death, and forgiveness of sins -• Reflections on the beauty of Jesus' body, heart, eyes, and love -• Invitation to stand and close with a prayer -• Prayer for gratitude, changed lives, and living out faith in daily life -• Blessing and sending forth with God's presence and protection -• Befriending God and the Lord -• Not being afraid, but going in peace to love and serve -• Growing in grace and knowledge of the Lord and Savior/Jesus Christ -• Giving glory to God now and forever \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - March 13, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - March 13, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2ab96ea5538738e26cb18d15c591f77ecf710fbb..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - March 13, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1144 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 16.86] God of your promise, you don't speak in vain, no syllable empty or void. -[16.86 --> 32.82] For once you have spoken, all nature and science follow the sound of your voice. -[32.82 --> 46.00] Ooh, and as you speak, a hundred billion creatures catch your breath. -[46.00 --> 60.46] Ooh, and as you speak, a hundred billion creatures catch your breath. -[60.46 --> 71.44] Ooh, and as you speak, a hundred billion creatures catch your breath. -[71.44 --> 77.04] Every pain is God, a canvas of your grace. -[77.04 --> 83.68] If creation still obeys you, so alive. -[83.68 --> 91.86] So alive. -[91.86 --> 98.96] So alive. -[98.96 --> 104.56] Ooh, and as you speak, a hundred billion creatures catch your breath. -[104.56 --> 108.56] Ooh, and as you speak, a hundred billion creatures catch your breath. -[108.56 --> 109.46] So alive. -[109.46 --> 110.68] So alive. -[110.68 --> 111.56] So alive. -[111.56 --> 112.56] So alive. -[112.56 --> 113.56] So alive. -[113.56 --> 119.42] And as you speak, a hundred billion creatures catch your breath. -[119.42 --> 120.06] So alive. -[120.06 --> 121.12] So alive. -[121.12 --> 127.48] And as you speak, a hundred billion creatures catch your breath. -[127.48 --> 132.48] And if the oceans roar your greatness, so will I. -[134.62 --> 141.70] For if everything exists to lift you high, so will I. -[141.70 --> 147.46] And if the wind goes where you send, so will I. -[149.34 --> 154.86] If the rocks cry out in silence, so will I. -[157.48 --> 162.46] If the sum of all our prayers still fall shy. -[164.86 --> 170.46] And we'll sing again a hundred billion times. -[170.46 --> 171.46] Oh. -[187.48 --> 197.16] God of salvation, you chased down my heart through all of my failure and pride. -[197.16 --> 205.58] On a hill you created. -[206.54 --> 211.88] The light of the world abandoned in darkness to die. -[211.88 --> 218.88] And as you speak. -[218.88 --> 225.76] A hundred billion failures disappeared. -[225.76 --> 234.24] Where you lost your life so I could find it here. -[234.24 --> 241.42] And if you left the grave behind you, so will I. -[241.42 --> 248.22] I could see your heart in everything you've done. -[248.22 --> 256.76] Every part designed in a work of our calm love. -[256.76 --> 263.76] If you gladly chose surrender, so will I. -[263.76 --> 270.94] I could see your heart and feel you a different way. -[270.94 --> 271.94] Every precious one. -[271.94 --> 275.94] Every precious one. -[275.94 --> 277.94] A child you died to save. -[277.94 --> 278.94] Every precious one. -[278.94 --> 279.94] A child you died to save. -[279.94 --> 283.94] And if you gave your life to love them so alive. -[283.94 --> 294.94] Like you would again a hundred billion times. -[294.94 --> 302.94] But what measure could amount to your desire? -[302.94 --> 308.94] You're the one who never leaves the one behind. -[308.94 --> 329.94] You're the one who never leaves the one behind. -[329.94 --> 334.94] All this pain. -[334.94 --> 339.94] I wonder if I'll ever find my way. -[339.94 --> 348.94] I wonder if my life could really change at all. -[348.94 --> 349.94] A little pain. -[349.94 --> 355.94] It's not just akeeper. -[355.94 --> 358.94] I wonder if Shawna an 있는 distance grows does too much. -[358.94 --> 359.94] When if I was hoping they'd be, you're Yay. -[359.94 --> 361.94] I wonder if there's a piece of issues that would be figured out. -[361.94 --> 362.94] But if you weren't feeling구나 if I could see it and try them. -[362.94 --> 363.94] What am I? -[363.94 --> 364.94] We don't reach the eyes thatriebeneliara24 offers. -[364.94 --> 366.94] How can you do you think senilely? -[366.94 --> 367.94] But I hope that you might want to learn a hope. -[367.94 --> 368.94] And have a son that holds your life to the heart. -[368.94 --> 373.94] If I happy god saude his life and love is able to live. -[373.94 --> 374.94] And will all this earth move may not to lean slowly? -[374.94 --> 375.94] And can she send them to all our questions? -[375.94 --> 387.46] You make beautiful things, you make beautiful things out of the dust. -[387.46 --> 399.66] You make beautiful things, you make beautiful things out of us. -[405.94 --> 416.26] All around, hope is springing up from this old ground. -[416.26 --> 424.54] Out of chaos, life is being found in you. -[424.54 --> 439.54] You make beautiful things, you make beautiful things out of the dust. -[439.54 --> 451.54] You make beautiful things, you make beautiful things out of us. -[451.54 --> 464.54] Oh you make beautiful things, you make beautiful things out of dust. -[464.54 --> 476.54] You make beautiful things, you make beautiful things out of dust. -[476.54 --> 504.02] You make me new -[504.02 --> 509.74] You are making me new -[509.74 --> 514.94] You make me new -[534.02 --> 541.02] You make me new -[541.02 --> 543.02] You -[543.02 --> 545.02] You -[545.02 --> 547.02] You -[547.02 --> 549.02] You -[549.02 --> 553.74] This one good morning -[553.74 --> 561.50] In the excitement of this morning I forgot to get my microphone from the back so I'm gonna borrow this one -[561.50 --> 563.74] Welcome to -[563.74 --> 571.16] Worship we are so glad to gather together today. My name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors here and -[571.16 --> 579.64] It's my privilege with these others and then a few people in green shirts and the like to lead you in our shared worship together -[579.64 --> 581.06] This morning -[581.06 --> 590.76] We are uniquely excited to gather in our worship this morning probably for obvious reasons if you are gathered here present with us -[590.76 --> 593.98] But we do want to say if you are not yet comfortable -[593.98 --> 599.18] Worshiping without a mask or gathering in this place and still wanting to wear a mask -[599.18 --> 600.48] We want to encourage you to do that -[600.48 --> 606.16] We want to welcome everyone together here so that we can be present as a community -[606.16 --> 611.50] We want the gospel to stretch our comfort zones not social anxieties -[611.50 --> 616.46] Or other things around that and so let's be present together in the midst of that -[616.46 --> 620.44] Some of you were here yesterday for a wedding that we celebrated -[620.44 --> 623.28] With matt and nicole woods now -[623.28 --> 627.94] Because of that there's all sorts of leftover like goodies -[627.94 --> 637.94] From the reception and so we can't offer goodies without offering coffee and so for the first time in a long while there will be coffee after service together today -[637.94 --> 651.36] That excitement notwithstanding again if you're not yet comfortable for sticking around in those kinds of gatherings we welcome you just to head on out -[651.36 --> 657.56] And we will live in the midst of all of this together for a little while and so thank you to -[657.56 --> 662.44] Matt and nicole and their families for providing snacks and -[663.56 --> 665.56] What's the word some? -[665.56 --> 667.56] Yes -[667.56 --> 672.66] Apparently I don't know that you don't know what that means talk to somebody who's older than me and looks Dutch -[675.44 --> 677.44] What else are we gonna say? -[678.86 --> 684.34] Kids choir so we are having a choir for the Easter Good Friday Easter season coming up -[684.34 --> 687.64] Part of that is going to include a children's choir like we did -[687.64 --> 690.34] Previously and so if you are -[690.34 --> 695.46] Young kids want to be in a choir your practice starts next week Sunday after service -[695.46 --> 700.90] If you haven't been part of the choir before or kids choir before you are welcome to join up and be part of that -[700.90 --> 705.94] Together you can talk to mark who's here somewhere there you go grab him and he will give you details -[705.94 --> 709.24] For that Josh you have an announcement too right awesome -[713.94 --> 717.70] Hello so I'm here on behalf of Jared Alkema -[719.06 --> 723.86] Jared as some of you may know has been in Costa Rica for the last month and a half -[724.42 --> 727.86] He's been attending torchbearers Bible school in San Jose -[727.86 --> 733.76] Jared is going to be doing some outreach as part of the time spent there and for them to do that -[733.76 --> 736.16] They're gonna be raising some money over the next five weeks -[737.54 --> 743.24] Jared is beautifully crafted a letter that informs you on what he's been doing and how to help him the best -[743.62 --> 750.26] So if you can go to the midweek memo there you can hear all about his trip and how to donate if you want to -[750.82 --> 752.82] Help him with that -[752.82 --> 764.10] Thank you Josh all right as you are able and where you are would you stand together we can be called into worship -[766.58 --> 772.34] We're called into worship we're greeted by our good God receive his greeting -[773.70 --> 774.26] Grace -[775.14 --> 781.54] Mercy and peace to you from God our father and the Lord Jesus Christ his son and our savior -[781.54 --> 784.74] In the presence power of the Holy Spirit -[785.86 --> 787.86] Amen -[802.18 --> 806.82] It is good to give thanks to the Lord to sing praises to your name almost high -[806.82 --> 811.06] To declare your steadfast love in the morning and your faithfulness by night -[811.62 --> 818.18] To the music of the flute and the harp the melody of the lyre for you oh Lord have made me glad by your work -[818.18 --> 821.22] At the works of your hands I will sing for joy -[821.22 --> 825.70] It is good to praise the Lord -[834.98 --> 839.30] It is good to praise the Lord -[839.30 --> 842.90] It is good to gaze upon his majesty -[842.90 --> 844.90] To gaze upon his majesty -[844.90 --> 852.90] To proclaim his love in the morning -[852.90 --> 854.90] To proclaim his love in the morning -[854.90 --> 858.90] And his faithfulness at night -[858.90 --> 860.90] Oh it is good -[860.90 --> 864.90] To worship and praise the Lord -[864.90 --> 866.90] And praise the Lord -[866.90 --> 870.90] And praise the Lord -[870.90 --> 876.90] It is good to praise the Lord -[876.90 --> 880.90] It is good to gaze upon his majesty -[880.90 --> 882.90] To praise the Lord -[882.90 --> 884.90] It is good to gaze upon his majesty -[884.90 --> 888.90] To proclaim his love in the morning -[888.90 --> 890.90] And his faithfulness at night -[890.90 --> 894.90] And his faithfulness at night -[894.90 --> 898.90] Oh it is good to worship and praise the Lord -[898.90 --> 908.90] Oh it is good to worship and praise the Lord -[908.90 --> 918.90] Lord my heart can grow -[918.90 --> 928.90] So far away and cold -[928.90 --> 930.90] Lord my heart can grow -[930.90 --> 934.90] So far away and cold -[934.90 --> 936.90] And yet for me -[936.90 --> 938.90] And yet for me -[938.90 --> 944.90] Your love is still the same -[944.90 --> 948.90] Lord I bend my knee -[948.90 --> 952.90] In awe and fear of Thee -[952.90 --> 962.90] I head bow down in reverence to Your name -[962.90 --> 966.90] I lift Your name -[966.90 --> 970.90] Your holy name -[970.90 --> 978.90] Jehovah God Elohim -[978.90 --> 982.90] The great I am -[982.90 --> 986.90] The risen Lamb -[986.90 --> 996.90] My comforter and King -[996.90 --> 1000.90] Lord my heart's desire -[1000.90 --> 1004.90] Is to be filled with spirit fire -[1004.90 --> 1014.90] My purpose is to worship You alone -[1014.90 --> 1018.90] Open up my soul -[1018.90 --> 1020.90] Open up my soul -[1020.90 --> 1022.90] To worship and adore -[1022.90 --> 1026.90] To be a fragrance -[1026.90 --> 1028.90] Offer to Your throne -[1028.90 --> 1032.90] I lift Your name -[1032.90 --> 1034.90] I lift Your name -[1034.90 --> 1036.90] I lift Your name -[1036.90 --> 1038.90] Your holy name -[1038.90 --> 1040.90] Your holy name -[1040.90 --> 1042.90] Jehovah God Elohim -[1042.90 --> 1044.90] All the God -[1044.90 --> 1048.90] And all Heal -[1048.90 --> 1052.90] The great I am -[1052.90 --> 1054.90] The great I am -[1054.90 --> 1056.90] The risen Lamb -[1056.90 --> 1060.40] Thone -[1060.40 --> 1062.90] Think of which God lineup -[1062.90 --> 1064.78] And who know -[1064.78 --> 1066.90] Lord Jesus -[1066.90 --> 1078.90] of the Son -[1078.90 --> 1080.90] And who know -[1080.90 --> 1081.90] ��z donations to your mind -[1081.90 --> 1083.90] I lift Your name -[1083.90 --> 1102.00] The great I am, the risen Lamb, my comforter and King. -[1113.90 --> 1133.66] Lord, I want to be a sacrifice. Lord, I want to be pleasing to you. -[1133.66 --> 1147.66] Lord, I want your love to rule my life and be the one that you shine through. -[1147.66 --> 1163.80] Jesus, I give you all. Every part of me cries out your name. -[1164.12 --> 1169.62] Jesus, I give you all. -[1169.62 --> 1184.42] Living and holy. Living and holy. Living and holy. Living and holy for you. -[1184.42 --> 1200.58] Lord, I want to be a sacrifice. Lord, I want to be pleasing to you. -[1200.58 --> 1215.58] Lord, I want your love to rule my life and be the one that you shine through. -[1215.58 --> 1231.58] Jesus, I give you all. Every part of me cries out your name. -[1232.48 --> 1238.58] Jesus, I give you all. -[1238.58 --> 1254.26] Living and holy. Living and holy. Living and holy. Living and holy for you. -[1260.34 --> 1267.40] Lord, we sing praises to you. We want to give everything to you and shine of your love to the world. -[1268.58 --> 1274.66] But we have sinned. Even as our ancestors did, we have done wrong and acted wickedly. -[1275.54 --> 1279.32] When our ancestors were in Egypt, they gave no thought to your miracles. -[1279.94 --> 1283.22] They did not remember the abundance of your steadfast love. -[1283.80 --> 1286.52] And they rebelled by the sea, the Red Sea. -[1287.80 --> 1293.02] Yet he saved them for his name's sake to make his mighty power known. -[1293.02 --> 1300.52] Through the knowledge of this mighty power, we know to whom we can bring our hurt and our sin. -[1300.92 --> 1308.62] The one who turned the altar into a table that we may have new life through Christ in the forgiveness of our sins. -[1308.62 --> 1338.60] The one who turned the altar into a table that we may have new life through Christ in the wilderness. -[1338.60 --> 1368.58] Overwhelmed by the weight of our sin. -[1368.58 --> 1370.58] The one who turned the altar. -[1370.58 --> 1375.06] The Father's arms are open wide. -[1375.06 --> 1385.58] Forgiveness was bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[1385.58 --> 1388.20] Forgiveness was bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[1389.88 --> 1395.68] Oom, God is responsible. -[1395.68 --> 1401.00] Leave behind your regrets and mistakes. -[1401.40 --> 1405.34] Come today, there's no reason to wait. -[1405.34 --> 1408.82] Jesus is calling -[1408.82 --> 1416.72] Bring your sorrows and trade them for joy -[1416.72 --> 1421.76] From the ashes a new life is born -[1421.76 --> 1424.74] Jesus is calling -[1424.74 --> 1431.46] O come to the altar -[1431.46 --> 1437.38] The Father's arms are open wide -[1437.38 --> 1442.44] Forgiveness was bought with -[1442.44 --> 1447.72] The precious blood of Jesus Christ -[1447.72 --> 1451.98] O come to the altar -[1451.98 --> 1457.46] The Father's arms are open wide -[1457.46 --> 1462.82] Forgiveness was bought with -[1462.82 --> 1469.38] The precious blood of Jesus Christ -[1469.38 --> 1479.44] Oh, what a Savior -[1479.44 --> 1486.08] Isn't he wonderful -[1486.08 --> 1490.02] Sing hallelujah -[1490.02 --> 1493.92] Christ is risen -[1493.92 --> 1501.44] Bow down before him -[1501.44 --> 1507.68] For he is Lord of all -[1507.68 --> 1511.02] Sing hallelujah -[1511.02 --> 1514.88] Christ is risen -[1514.88 --> 1521.46] Oh, what a Savior -[1521.46 --> 1527.94] Isn't he wonderful -[1527.94 --> 1527.98] Isn't he wonderful -[1527.98 --> 1531.98] Sing hallelujah -[1531.98 --> 1535.88] Christ is risen -[1535.88 --> 1544.14] Bow down before him -[1544.14 --> 1549.50] For he is Lord of all -[1549.50 --> 1552.66] Sing hallelujah -[1552.66 --> 1556.50] Christ is risen -[1556.50 --> 1566.58] Oh, come to the altar -[1566.58 --> 1572.22] The Father's arms are open wide -[1572.22 --> 1577.06] Forgiveness was bought with -[1577.06 --> 1582.38] The precious blood of Jesus Christ -[1582.38 --> 1586.58] Oh, come to the altar -[1586.58 --> 1592.22] The Father's arms are open wide -[1592.22 --> 1597.58] Forgiveness was bought with -[1597.58 --> 1603.90] The precious blood of Jesus Christ -[1603.90 --> 1609.26] Pair your cross as you wait for the cross -[1609.26 --> 1614.62] Tell the world of the treasure -[1614.62 --> 1630.62] Pair your cross as you wait for the crown -[1630.62 --> 1643.62] Tell the world of the treasure you found -[1643.62 --> 1645.62] Tell the world of the treasure you found -[1645.62 --> 1647.62] And watch the peace of the Lord -[1647.62 --> 1649.62] Amen -[1649.62 --> 1651.62] Amen -[1651.62 --> 1653.62] Amen -[1653.62 --> 1655.62] Amen -[1655.62 --> 1657.62] Amen -[1657.62 --> 1658.62] Amen -[1658.62 --> 1659.62] Amen -[1659.62 --> 1660.60] Amen -[1660.62 --> 1690.60] Amen -[1690.88 --> 1691.26] Amen -[1691.26 --> 1696.84] We have an opportunity to commission the Mexico mission team that is going -[1696.84 --> 1697.94] And before we do that -[1697.94 --> 1699.70] We're going to hear from a couple of them -[1699.70 --> 1703.04] As they share with us a little bit about -[1703.04 --> 1705.14] Why they're excited for going -[1705.14 --> 1710.66] And what they hope to see and hear God do in their midst together -[1710.66 --> 1715.82] And so we're going to invite Levi and Ruth to come up to the front -[1715.82 --> 1717.98] They're going to take that side stage there -[1717.98 --> 1720.74] they're going to share with us for just a few minutes. -[1747.98 --> 1763.74] All right, so I'm excited for this trip because we get to continue to build relationships -[1763.74 --> 1770.32] with the people down there that we've been doing for the past long while, and especially -[1770.32 --> 1774.30] just the time that we're going to spend with the youth down there and the activities that -[1774.30 --> 1776.30] we're going to be doing with them. -[1776.30 --> 1780.28] And yeah, I'm just really excited to see how God will work through our team and yeah, -[1780.38 --> 1781.56] just while we're there. -[1787.06 --> 1791.28] So like I think most of you guys here, I have not left the country in two years. -[1791.28 --> 1794.06] So to be honest, I'm excited about just that alone. -[1795.26 --> 1801.04] But the main thing I'm most excited for is instead of building a house or making a soup -[1801.04 --> 1804.00] kitchen like we've done in the past, we haven't gone in two years. -[1804.00 --> 1807.98] So just building that relationship, none of us have ever been ourselves except for the -[1807.98 --> 1809.98] leaders, except for I guess Leah and the Frontier. -[1809.98 --> 1814.52] But yeah, just to build their youth program, I'm really looking forward to seeing that because -[1814.52 --> 1816.80] I think we can both learn a lot from each other. -[1816.92 --> 1818.54] So just building the relationship again. -[1821.62 --> 1822.26] Keep talking? -[1823.20 --> 1824.28] I'll keep talking then. -[1824.28 --> 1836.80] So honestly, our group has worked decently, if I'm honest. -[1836.80 --> 1841.14] We had a task in the beginning where we were given a hockey stick and we all had to put one -[1841.14 --> 1841.70] finger on. -[1842.06 --> 1847.26] And the simple task was to put it down on the ground, but no one's finger could go off the -[1847.26 --> 1847.60] stick. -[1847.60 --> 1852.86] But we had like 10 judges, so they were seeing every single little centimeter of space. -[1853.24 --> 1855.96] And we have still not successfully done that yet. -[1856.36 --> 1859.20] So maybe we can see if we can get it done down there. -[1859.34 --> 1860.92] The kids might beat us, to be honest. -[1860.92 --> 1864.68] I still don't think there's much hope for us, but we shall see, I guess. -[1864.68 --> 1870.14] All right. -[1870.14 --> 1872.44] Did you figure it out for me? -[1894.68 --> 1899.56] Figuring that out. -[1902.32 --> 1902.92] Keep figuring. -[1902.92 --> 1903.82] There it is. -[1904.66 --> 1905.06] Beautiful. -[1905.42 --> 1906.40] Dave's going to solve the problems. -[1907.26 --> 1907.52] All right. -[1907.58 --> 1914.66] I want to invite the Mexico mission team, the leaders and everyone, just to come up to the -[1914.66 --> 1919.26] front and kind of just come along the front stage here behind the community table so that -[1919.26 --> 1921.68] everyone here can see you, everyone on screen can see you. -[1921.68 --> 1929.76] And we're going to take a moment and commission them for service and then pray over them in -[1929.76 --> 1930.66] that time as well. -[1932.52 --> 1940.90] Now, Jesus Christ himself promised that his disciples would never be alone and he would -[1940.90 --> 1942.58] send the spirit to be with them. -[1943.56 --> 1949.44] This promise applies to those whose ministry is in familiar places and to those who travel -[1949.44 --> 1954.08] far to new settings, whether for a long duration or for a shorter time. -[1954.86 --> 1959.88] Today, we rejoice in the calling and the blessing of God on your lives. -[1960.72 --> 1966.38] God blesses us with salvation and then he blesses us with the privilege of partnering and spreading -[1966.38 --> 1967.78] his good news. -[1968.26 --> 1972.72] And through us, God pours out his blessing on the world. -[1972.72 --> 1977.34] Following the apostles, then the church is sent. -[1978.24 --> 1983.76] You are sent with the gospel of the kingdom to make disciples of all nations, to feed the -[1983.76 --> 1989.46] hungry and proclaim the assurance that in the name of Christ, there is forgiveness of sins -[1989.46 --> 1992.84] and new life for all who repent and believe. -[1992.84 --> 1999.60] In a world estranged from God where millions face confusing chaos, this mission is central -[1999.60 --> 2001.34] to our being as a church. -[2002.00 --> 2005.74] For we announce that one name alone saves. -[2007.08 --> 2008.94] You go now to Tijuana. -[2009.20 --> 2010.10] Did I say that right, Jody? -[2010.54 --> 2010.80] No? -[2010.96 --> 2011.14] Okay. -[2011.22 --> 2011.96] I'm going to work on it. -[2012.16 --> 2012.94] And Rosarito. -[2013.68 --> 2013.92] Yep. -[2013.96 --> 2014.64] Got that one right. -[2014.64 --> 2036.40] I want to take this opportunity for family and friends of these people who are here and -[2036.40 --> 2038.64] maybe an elder or two of our church. -[2038.64 --> 2045.24] Would you come up and lay hands on someone as we pray the power of the spirit into this -[2045.24 --> 2046.54] work and mission together? -[2058.12 --> 2064.30] For the rest, as you are comfortable and able, we encourage you just to hold up or hold out -[2064.30 --> 2072.50] a hand as they too may see that in this community of faith, the Lord goes with them into this -[2072.50 --> 2073.38] endeavor. -[2073.90 --> 2074.84] Let's pray together. -[2078.98 --> 2082.20] Lord, our God, you are so good. -[2082.96 --> 2090.00] We see your faithfulness here this morning as we look at all of these individuals and the -[2090.00 --> 2094.90] calling that you have placed on their life to send them now to Mexico. -[2095.90 --> 2100.84] We see your faithfulness in the community that surrounds them as parents and friends and -[2100.84 --> 2106.34] youth leaders, teachers, elders, brothers and sisters in Christ all. -[2106.76 --> 2111.30] And so, Lord God, we pray now, bless these ones with your spirit. -[2112.42 --> 2118.06] Move in power in them so that you might move in power through them in all that they do. -[2118.06 --> 2122.28] Bless the relationships that they will foster and reconnect. -[2123.04 --> 2124.52] Bless the work that will be done. -[2125.84 --> 2127.40] May it all be to your glory. -[2128.38 --> 2131.18] We pray, Lord God, for safety. -[2132.20 --> 2134.80] We pray for challenges. -[2135.72 --> 2140.78] We pray for hard circumstances that in the midst of those challenges and hard circumstances, -[2141.08 --> 2144.22] there would be ample opportunity to see you at work. -[2144.22 --> 2149.18] And so, for each one who goes and for us who stay behind and will hear testimony later, -[2149.48 --> 2153.14] we pray for eyes of faith that would see you moving in power. -[2153.62 --> 2157.20] Open the eyes of our heart, Lord Jesus, to see you. -[2160.36 --> 2166.98] Equip these people now so that they might serve you in faithfulness. -[2166.98 --> 2175.82] As you go on this mission together, the Lord bless you and keep you. -[2177.10 --> 2180.56] The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[2181.38 --> 2186.56] The Lord turn his face toward you and give you his peace. -[2187.18 --> 2189.66] And all the church said, amen. -[2190.72 --> 2191.32] Amen. -[2191.54 --> 2192.06] God bless. -[2192.06 --> 2192.10] God bless. -[2192.10 --> 2192.50] Amen. -[2192.50 --> 2192.60] God bless. -[2196.98 --> 2197.98] Amen. -[2226.98 --> 2253.98] You call me out upon the waters, the great unknown. -[2253.98 --> 2271.76] God bless. -[2275.76 --> 2276.56] Let me say, amen. -[2276.56 --> 2281.56] And I will call upon your name. -[2283.38 --> 2289.10] And keep my eyes above the waves. -[2289.60 --> 2295.56] When oceans rise, my soul will rest in your embrace. -[2295.56 --> 2300.68] For I am yours. -[2301.40 --> 2305.10] And you are mine. -[2306.56 --> 2323.34] Your grace abounds in deepest waters. -[2323.34 --> 2332.22] Your sovereign hand will be my guide. -[2332.22 --> 2339.04] Where feet may fail and fear surrounds me. -[2339.76 --> 2343.08] You've never failed. -[2343.34 --> 2346.70] And you won't start now. -[2346.70 --> 2354.66] And I will call upon your name. -[2356.02 --> 2361.52] And keep my eyes above the waves. -[2361.52 --> 2369.66] When oceans rise, my soul will rest in your embrace. -[2369.66 --> 2373.38] For I am yours. -[2374.78 --> 2378.26] And you are mine. -[2378.26 --> 2381.58] Thank you. -[2381.58 --> 2383.00] Thank you. -[2383.00 --> 2383.78] Thank you. -[2383.86 --> 2393.40] Thank you. -[2393.50 --> 2396.14] Thank you. -[2396.14 --> 2414.32] Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders -[2414.32 --> 2418.30] Let me walk upon the waters -[2418.30 --> 2423.24] Wherever you would call me -[2423.24 --> 2429.82] Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander -[2429.82 --> 2433.66] And my faith will be made stronger -[2433.66 --> 2438.12] In the presence of my Savior -[2438.12 --> 2445.68] Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders -[2445.68 --> 2449.62] When you walk upon the waters -[2449.62 --> 2454.48] Wherever you would call me -[2454.48 --> 2460.26] Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander -[2460.26 --> 2464.56] And my faith will be made stronger -[2464.56 --> 2468.84] In the presence of my Savior -[2468.84 --> 2475.84] Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders -[2475.84 --> 2479.84] Let me walk upon the waters -[2479.84 --> 2485.42] Wherever you would call me -[2485.42 --> 2491.42] Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander -[2491.42 --> 2495.42] And my faith will be made stronger -[2495.42 --> 2501.42] In the presence of my Savior -[2501.42 --> 2531.40] In the presence of my Savior -[2531.40 --> 2537.98] And I will call upon your name -[2537.98 --> 2545.98] Keep my eyes above the waist -[2545.98 --> 2550.98] And my soul will rest in your embrace -[2550.98 --> 2555.98] I am yours -[2555.98 --> 2560.98] And you are mine -[2560.98 --> 2564.98] Please be seated -[2564.98 --> 2584.42] We continue this morning's worship service -[2584.42 --> 2586.30] With the giving of our tithes and offerings -[2586.30 --> 2589.58] This morning's offerings is first for our church's budget -[2589.58 --> 2592.62] And second for World Renew Ukraine response -[2592.62 --> 2597.24] World Renew is actively working with several global networks in the region -[2597.24 --> 2599.52] Including the Canadian Food Grains Bank -[2599.52 --> 2602.22] To respond to the needs of vulnerable families -[2602.22 --> 2604.34] Impacted by the conflict in Ukraine -[2604.34 --> 2607.44] World Renew is supporting these organizations -[2607.44 --> 2611.64] By providing essential items for people fleeing for safety -[2611.64 --> 2612.80] To neighboring countries -[2612.80 --> 2616.50] In Slovakia they are providing temporary shelters -[2616.50 --> 2620.32] Emergency food and emergency non-food items -[2620.32 --> 2623.14] Such as blankets, linens, mattresses -[2623.14 --> 2624.60] And basic hygiene items -[2624.60 --> 2626.66] In Romania and Poland -[2626.66 --> 2628.60] They are responding with health support -[2628.60 --> 2630.02] By supplying health packs -[2630.02 --> 2632.22] That will be used by local health centers -[2632.22 --> 2635.76] World Renew will continue to support these networks -[2635.76 --> 2637.12] As they answer God's call -[2637.12 --> 2639.12] To extend love and hope -[2639.12 --> 2640.74] To the many people left vulnerable -[2640.74 --> 2642.38] By this devastating conflict -[2642.38 --> 2645.66] Please consider financially supporting this cause today -[2645.66 --> 2648.98] From Ephesians 2 verse 8 to 9 -[2648.98 --> 2652.38] For it is by grace that you have been saved through faith -[2652.38 --> 2654.38] And this is not your own doing -[2654.38 --> 2656.16] It is the gift of God -[2656.16 --> 2658.12] Not as a result of works -[2658.12 --> 2659.82] So that no one may boast -[2659.82 --> 2663.10] Next week's offering is for Life Water Canada -[2663.10 --> 2664.42] Please give cheerfully -[2664.42 --> 2667.32] To the members veya mother -[2667.32 --> 2668.06] Please give cheer for it -[2668.06 --> 2668.66] For life Chaal -[2668.66 --> 2669.56] Please give cheerfully -[2669.56 --> 2670.12] To the believers -[2670.12 --> 2670.98] Thank you -[2670.98 --> 2671.08] For it is for each other -[2671.08 --> 2672.46] The people who have been saved -[2672.46 --> 2673.02] To the community -[2673.02 --> 2674.08] AboutFunnels -[2674.08 --> 2674.76] So that no one may boast -[2674.76 --> 2675.26] cheg je -[2675.26 --> 2675.98] taas -[2675.98 --> 2676.72] To the act -[2676.72 --> 2677.16] Mondays -[2677.16 --> 2678.24] Onra -[2678.24 --> 2678.68] År -[2678.68 --> 2681.10] Dom -[2681.10 --> 2682.66] Por -[2682.66 --> 2683.20] Tomorrow -[2683.20 --> 2684.02] In -[2684.56 --> 2685.78] similarly -[2685.78 --> 2686.60] She -[2686.60 --> 2688.04] 父 -[2688.32 --> 2688.96] I -[2688.96 --> 2690.72] соп -[2690.72 --> 2692.84] Welcome -[2692.84 --> 2693.54] Hey -[2693.54 --> 2703.64] Come the fount of every blessing, tune my heart to sing thy praise. -[2703.64 --> 2714.54] Streams of mercy never ceasing, call for songs of loudest praise. -[2714.54 --> 2725.28] Teach me some melodious sonnet, sung by flaming tongues above. -[2725.28 --> 2736.62] Praise the mount, I'm fixed upon it, mount of thy redeeming love. -[2744.54 --> 2754.92] Here I raise my Ebenezer, hither by thy help I come. -[2754.92 --> 2765.98] And I hope by thy good pleasure, safely to arrive at home. -[2765.98 --> 2777.16] Jesus sought me when a stranger, wandering from the fold of God. -[2777.72 --> 2787.82] Here to rescue me from danger, interposes precious blood. -[2795.98 --> 2807.12] Oh, to grace, how great a debtor, daily I'm constrained to be. -[2807.82 --> 2818.14] Let thy goodness, like a fetter, bind my wandering heart to thee. -[2818.14 --> 2824.10] Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it. -[2824.58 --> 2829.14] Prone to leave the God alone. -[2830.04 --> 2835.08] Here's my heart, Lord, take and seal it. -[2835.56 --> 2843.28] Seal it for thy courts above all else. -[2843.28 --> 2854.20] I adore your name above all else. -[2854.20 --> 2860.28] Tune my heart to sing your praise. -[2860.28 --> 2873.26] Above all else, I adore your name above all else. -[2873.28 --> 2903.26] Tune my heart to sing your praise. -[2903.28 --> 2909.82] above all else, i adore your name above all else. -[2909.82 --> 2918.10] I adore your name above all else. -[2918.10 --> 2931.24] Tune my heart to sing your praise. -[2931.24 --> 2941.66] Good morning. -[2941.76 --> 2944.08] If I could get all the kids up for a quick minute. -[2944.26 --> 2945.68] Kids, what are we at? -[2946.18 --> 2948.28] Age three to grade four. -[2951.50 --> 2952.54] Corey will go fine. -[2953.74 --> 2954.66] You were first. -[2961.24 --> 2963.84] Hi, guys. -[2964.14 --> 2964.82] Welcome to church. -[2964.90 --> 2968.40] Isn't it fun to be here without needing to wear masks and stuff? -[2968.46 --> 2969.74] Again, I can see all your faces. -[2969.90 --> 2970.70] That's kind of exciting. -[2970.88 --> 2974.14] It's okay if you still feel like you want to wear a mask in children's worship time, though. -[2974.54 --> 2979.80] Hey, I have a personal highlight I want to highlight or share with you before we go off -[2979.80 --> 2980.90] to children's worship time. -[2981.46 --> 2983.94] My wife got a dog. -[2985.20 --> 2985.78] I know. -[2986.56 --> 2987.42] Do you guys have dogs? -[2987.48 --> 2988.22] Who here has a dog? -[2989.06 --> 2990.08] Yeah, just a few dogs. -[2990.08 --> 2991.44] Oh, just a few dogs in the group. -[2991.70 --> 2992.36] No pets. -[2992.90 --> 2993.18] Oh. -[2993.96 --> 2994.36] Okay. -[2994.54 --> 3000.18] Well, the one thing I will say, there's a lot of things that come with getting a pet that -[3000.18 --> 3006.60] I was reticent, I was a little hesitant about, but I will say one big highlight is when you -[3006.60 --> 3009.98] come home and your pet is there to greet you. -[3010.56 --> 3011.62] Do you guys know what that's like? -[3012.34 --> 3012.58] No? -[3012.68 --> 3016.18] Maybe when you go to Grandma Grandpa's house or someone else's house, the dog comes running -[3016.18 --> 3017.90] to the door and it's so exciting. -[3017.90 --> 3020.32] It's the best thing in the world. -[3020.84 --> 3022.88] And the dog just loves seeing you. -[3023.56 --> 3023.76] Huh? -[3024.34 --> 3025.44] Or, what's that? -[3030.38 --> 3030.78] Oh. -[3030.78 --> 3035.12] They get pretty excited though, right? -[3035.54 --> 3035.88] Yeah. -[3036.32 --> 3036.58] Yeah. -[3036.76 --> 3037.14] I know. -[3037.20 --> 3037.56] You know what? -[3037.58 --> 3042.16] These guys are going on a big trip tomorrow and it's going to be like that when they get -[3042.16 --> 3046.86] home, maybe their pet gets super excited that they're home again or maybe their mom and dad -[3046.86 --> 3050.38] get super excited that they're home again or their siblings, right? -[3050.38 --> 3051.94] I know I have that sometimes. -[3052.08 --> 3054.00] My grandma and grandpa, they don't live near here. -[3054.30 --> 3062.08] And when I see them, I get a big hug, a big welcome, a big, big kiss on the cheek sometimes, -[3062.42 --> 3062.72] right? -[3063.34 --> 3064.94] So, we're going to talk about that. -[3065.02 --> 3071.46] We're going to talk about being welcomed home and being welcomed into a big hug when we -[3071.46 --> 3073.00] get to children's worship time, okay? -[3073.44 --> 3075.04] And then I can answer some of your questions. -[3075.04 --> 3079.94] But let's stand and we'll do the children's blessing and we'll keep our conversation going. -[3082.94 --> 3084.36] Let's raise our hands. -[3086.82 --> 3089.04] The Lord is here. -[3089.84 --> 3091.40] And also is here. -[3105.04 --> 3120.84] Hello, my name is Peter and I am one of the elders here at Mounder Church. -[3121.46 --> 3125.16] And it's my privilege to lead you this morning in our congregational prayer. -[3125.82 --> 3128.98] So, please bow your heads with me and let's go to our God in prayer. -[3128.98 --> 3138.88] Father in heaven, how great it is to come to you this day. -[3140.44 --> 3145.52] We praise you, Lord, when it comes out easy and when we're on top of the world. -[3146.16 --> 3151.58] We praise you, Lord, when the world is resting on our shoulders, it feels, and when it seems -[3151.58 --> 3152.08] too hard. -[3152.08 --> 3160.44] In the middle of the joys of life or in the long dark night, we know that Jesus Christ -[3160.44 --> 3161.46] is our Savior. -[3163.04 --> 3167.68] We are all in the middle of all these types of feelings coming at us all at once. -[3168.64 --> 3172.38] We are constantly in some precedent-setting situation. -[3172.70 --> 3178.36] And even though there are things to celebrate, this can all be very taxing, especially emotionally -[3178.36 --> 3179.00] and spiritually. -[3179.00 --> 3185.46] Lord, be our guide through what seems to be a yo-yo of emotions. -[3187.02 --> 3189.72] Father, we think of the war being fought over in Ukraine right now. -[3190.30 --> 3194.02] It's right in our face on social media and all over. -[3195.42 --> 3197.82] Wars and uprisings seem to happen quite a lot. -[3198.72 --> 3203.16] But when two European countries are at war, it does seem a little more serious. -[3203.70 --> 3205.50] And countries around the world are reacting. -[3205.50 --> 3212.48] Our prayer, Lord, is for peace and an end to this war that's causing massive death and -[3212.48 --> 3213.10] devastation. -[3216.40 --> 3222.96] Father, also overseas, we think of Jared right now, who is in Costa Rica. -[3223.16 --> 3228.32] And we're thankful for the work that he is doing there and that he is blessed by that -[3228.32 --> 3232.36] work and keeping on going and enjoying it there. -[3232.36 --> 3239.24] We're also thankful that the Mexico mission team, after a couple years' hiatus, is now -[3239.24 --> 3245.78] able to go down again to Mexico and minister there and be part of the community and probably -[3245.78 --> 3249.30] have to reestablish some more relationships there or keep them going, Lord. -[3249.34 --> 3251.26] And we're thankful for the group that is going. -[3251.68 --> 3254.18] And may there be a blessing to the people there. -[3254.18 --> 3261.02] Closer to home, Lord, we're thankful for a positive change in the pandemic restrictions. -[3262.06 --> 3267.18] It doesn't seem that we'll be done with this virus that has swept across the world very -[3267.18 --> 3270.96] quickly, but we are thankful for the changes we've seen. -[3272.16 --> 3276.14] Our government and health officials have been in our prayers constantly as they navigate this -[3276.14 --> 3279.72] situation and try to do what they think is best for those they govern. -[3279.72 --> 3289.82] Lord, may we be thoughtful and patient for those who, after two years, are still not quite -[3289.82 --> 3292.86] so comfortable, Lord, and are venturing out. -[3293.36 --> 3299.08] And help us to support them as we all navigate this change. -[3300.38 --> 3305.22] Lord, we celebrate along with Matt and Nicole and their families as they were married yesterday. -[3305.60 --> 3308.52] Bless the union, Lord, and lead them in their marriage. -[3308.52 --> 3316.64] Lord, let us not also forget those and those people who we may not see mentioned in our -[3316.64 --> 3318.22] bulletin or midweek memo. -[3320.54 --> 3323.66] There are people every day going through struggles and trials of some sort. -[3324.26 --> 3327.88] Help us to be a support to these people if they reach out to us. -[3328.32 --> 3331.58] And Lord, we grant that your presence be with them, hold them, and care for them. -[3332.76 --> 3337.26] Lord, on our prayer list in the church bulletin, we quote James, where he says to pray for -[3337.26 --> 3338.84] each other. -[3338.84 --> 3342.42] And that verse also highlights that our prayers be earnest. -[3343.20 --> 3347.14] Help the life of the church and the world around us to always be in our prayers. -[3347.80 --> 3349.74] And may prayer be a growing part of our lives. -[3351.12 --> 3353.46] Father, bless the word that was preached here today. -[3354.00 --> 3356.02] Be with Pastor Chris as he delivers us the message. -[3356.66 --> 3361.60] Open our ears, our minds, and our souls to hear this message for us today. -[3361.60 --> 3362.98] Amen. -[3362.98 --> 3363.06] Amen. -[3363.06 --> 3363.10] Amen. -[3391.60 --> 3392.60] Amen. -[3395.10 --> 3395.54] Amen. -[3395.54 --> 3397.10] This one. -[3397.20 --> 3397.42] Okay. -[3397.42 --> 3397.56] Amen. -[3401.10 --> 3402.06] Alright. -[3402.50 --> 3413.62] We are going to continue in our worship and looking and reading through the book of Exodus -[3413.62 --> 3414.14] together. -[3414.84 --> 3420.46] I'm going to read just three verses this morning from Exodus 23. -[3421.26 --> 3425.38] I'm going to read from verse 14 through to 17, -[3425.38 --> 3429.72] and then we'll spend some time reflecting on that together. -[3430.28 --> 3434.58] With God's word open, let's read together. -[3436.58 --> 3440.74] Three times a year you are to celebrate a festival to me. -[3440.74 --> 3444.34] Celebrate the festival of unleavened bread. -[3444.84 --> 3448.44] For seven days eat bread made without yeast, as I commanded you. -[3449.50 --> 3452.56] Do this at the appointed time in the month of Aviv. -[3453.48 --> 3455.98] For in that month you came out of Egypt. -[3457.40 --> 3460.82] No one is to appear before me empty-handed. -[3462.20 --> 3467.24] Celebrate the festival of harvest with the first fruits of the crops you sow in your field. -[3467.24 --> 3474.56] Celebrate the festival of ingathering at the end of the year when you gather in your crops from the field. -[3475.58 --> 3481.52] Three times a year all the men are to appear before the sovereign Lord. -[3482.76 --> 3484.08] This is the word of the Lord. -[3484.08 --> 3494.30] Now when you wake up every morning, what is the very first thing that you do? -[3498.50 --> 3499.72] Smack the alarm clock? -[3499.96 --> 3501.68] Yeah, once or twice or thrice. -[3502.42 --> 3505.30] The very first thing some of you do is think about coffee. -[3505.30 --> 3516.50] I wager the very first thing you do after opening your eyes or smacking the alarm for many of you, perhaps even most of you, is grab your phone. -[3518.50 --> 3519.42] Turn it on. -[3520.04 --> 3520.84] What did I miss? -[3520.84 --> 3528.86] Now I'd like to say that when I grab my phone, the first thing I do is open my news app and go to read the news, but really I go to Instagram. -[3530.36 --> 3532.66] And see what fun parties I missed. -[3533.42 --> 3537.98] And what didn't happen, or did happen, that I wasn't able to be part of. -[3539.08 --> 3542.04] Or maybe you're a better person than I am. -[3543.08 --> 3543.82] Probably are. -[3543.82 --> 3547.76] And so that's not the first thing you do in the morning when you wake up. -[3548.12 --> 3552.40] But when your phone dings, what do you do? -[3554.16 --> 3555.08] You look at it. -[3556.28 --> 3556.64] Right? -[3556.70 --> 3557.94] You could be talking to someone. -[3558.74 --> 3565.22] Maybe you're a teenager and mom and dad are trying to have a conversation with you, but then all of a sudden the text notification goes off and you look. -[3565.94 --> 3566.84] You just do it. -[3567.92 --> 3570.64] Now, parents, let me explain this to you. -[3570.64 --> 3580.32] There's a thing that has happened in the brains of people, okay, that short circuits that critical faculty of, like, being respectful. -[3581.70 --> 3582.22] Right? -[3582.28 --> 3583.56] No, I'm not kidding. -[3583.98 --> 3598.36] There are neuropathways in the brain that have been developed over our use of technology and phones that circumvents the frontal lobe or the critical faculty part of our brain that when we hear that ding, it's like an animal instinct. -[3598.36 --> 3599.30] We grab it and we look. -[3599.30 --> 3600.30] We look. -[3600.30 --> 3604.72] And it takes conscious effort to not do it, but subconscious effort to do it. -[3605.64 --> 3606.70] Neuroscientists have mapped this out. -[3606.78 --> 3609.38] You can see the things firing on the brain as it goes through. -[3610.12 --> 3611.06] Why do we do it? -[3611.68 --> 3613.10] Well, because we've always done it. -[3613.10 --> 3619.68] And our brain has just been conditioned to do it and it's now physiologically reflecting that condition. -[3621.44 --> 3629.86] The habit has become sort of concretized in our physiology. -[3629.86 --> 3638.06] It's become real because we've done it over and over and over again. -[3638.56 --> 3641.80] This morning I want to talk to you about the power of habits. -[3641.80 --> 3645.66] The power of habits. -[3645.76 --> 3649.08] When my kids were little, we would read Berenstain Bear books. -[3650.06 --> 3651.38] Some of you are familiar with this. -[3651.72 --> 3654.18] There's a Berenstain Bear book called Bad Habits. -[3654.18 --> 3659.50] And in there, Mama Bear gives an excellent illustration of how habits are formed. -[3659.60 --> 3664.28] She is explaining to Sister Bear, you can tell what age my kids are, right? -[3664.28 --> 3671.22] That when you do something over and over and over again, you create like grooves in a road. -[3671.64 --> 3676.32] Mama Bear was talking about the wheelbarrow that she pushed down the laneway for gardening every year. -[3676.72 --> 3679.70] And the grooves got deeper and deeper and deeper. -[3679.94 --> 3683.08] And it almost, she didn't have to steer that wheelbarrow anymore. -[3683.24 --> 3687.10] It just went in that direction because the grooves have been created in that place. -[3687.42 --> 3688.76] That's the power of habit. -[3688.76 --> 3693.40] That grooves get created in our lives. -[3693.48 --> 3697.48] These well-worn grooves that steer us along. -[3698.40 --> 3702.92] This section of the book of Exodus, where we have been reading and spending our time, -[3703.70 --> 3708.42] God is sharing with his people how life should look. -[3709.34 --> 3713.08] It started with the Ten Commandments, the beginning of chapter 20, -[3713.08 --> 3717.84] and then in one form or another, it carries on through the end of the book. -[3718.76 --> 3719.22] Right? -[3719.26 --> 3726.20] There's really only just a little bit of like narrative or story left in this book. -[3726.40 --> 3732.64] The rest is how shall you live in relationship to God and in relationship to each other. -[3733.18 --> 3739.46] Now, I think it's important to remember and to be reminded last week where we ended and landed -[3739.46 --> 3743.86] that God is talking to his chosen people, right? -[3743.86 --> 3751.48] These are his people, his holy nation, his people whom he has called and carried out of Egypt in the Exodus, right? -[3751.58 --> 3759.76] We are not yet or at least not precisely in the realm of sort of universal categorical imperatives. -[3759.92 --> 3761.68] They're there and they're coming. -[3761.68 --> 3771.50] But using the text that we read this week as an example, God isn't telling the Egyptians to celebrate these three festivals. -[3772.10 --> 3773.34] He's telling the Israelites. -[3773.34 --> 3782.52] And in a sense, what we are seeing is a working out or a sort of structural assumption of, -[3783.22 --> 3786.16] and I had this conversation with some of you this past week coming out of last week, -[3786.58 --> 3788.90] of this idea called principled pluralism. -[3789.72 --> 3791.32] Now, that's not a phrase I expect you to remember. -[3791.46 --> 3798.18] It's a phrase that Abraham Kuyper, a Reformed theologian, politician, used at the beginning of the 20th century. -[3798.18 --> 3806.66] The point is, the idea is that we as Christians must be thoroughly convicted of the right and good way to live, -[3806.86 --> 3813.94] but also we must allow for and find ways to encourage people with radically different confessions -[3813.94 --> 3821.92] about the right way and the good way to live to be also thoroughly convicted and to act out of those convictions, right? -[3821.92 --> 3829.20] Neither secular humanism nor Christianity must be given priority of place in a pluralistic society. -[3829.44 --> 3838.72] Both must have equal opportunity to make a compelling and, I would say, compassionate case for life together, right? -[3838.78 --> 3844.62] People who operate out of either assumption or whatever other assumptions there may be about how life is supposed to be lived -[3844.62 --> 3846.38] must have the freedom to do so. -[3846.38 --> 3855.46] Likewise, neither should we sort of legislate the other into obscurity or relegation to what some might call the private sphere. -[3856.40 --> 3859.52] Now, this is a sort of foundational principle of reform, social order, -[3859.60 --> 3864.40] and I invite you to reflect on that more later or to have conversations with me about that more later, -[3864.48 --> 3869.32] but just recognize that that idea is what is behind this conversation. -[3869.32 --> 3878.74] For now, though, God is talking to his people about the rhythms of their life together. -[3879.58 --> 3890.12] We're talking about social and religious rhythms that affect the pace of life lived in relationship to God. -[3890.12 --> 3896.58] So in the section immediately preceding what we read, if your Bibles are open, you will see it there, -[3897.26 --> 3900.76] the sort of Sabbath rhythms are reiterated. -[3901.12 --> 3903.08] Remember the Sabbath command, right? -[3903.18 --> 3905.14] Six days you shall labor and do all your work. -[3905.26 --> 3912.50] Sabbath is a Hebrew word play on the word for sixth or seventh, sorry, in the seventh day you rest. -[3912.50 --> 3923.22] Now, we'll look explicitly at Sabbath in a couple weeks, but for now, just notice the rhythm of it, right, in verse 10. -[3924.56 --> 3929.88] Six years you shall sow the land, the seventh leave it fallow, right? -[3929.92 --> 3933.80] And then for six days do your work, but the seventh do not work. -[3934.58 --> 3942.00] And then we read there, so that you may be refreshed at the end of verse 12, right? -[3942.00 --> 3948.94] The purpose of this rhythm is for refreshment, refreshment for the land and refreshment for the worker. -[3949.74 --> 3954.26] The rhythm of practice comes out again, then, in the text that we read. -[3954.98 --> 3958.82] Three times a year celebrate this festival. -[3959.44 --> 3965.98] Now, the first festival in the month of Aviv is, and that takes place sometimes in our month of March or April, -[3966.34 --> 3971.48] depending on which calendar year it is, celebrate the festival of unleavened bread. -[3972.00 --> 3975.00] Now, this is connected to the Passover experience. -[3975.42 --> 3983.54] Maybe you remember that story when they had to make bread without yeast as an expression of the haste in which they had to leave Egypt, -[3983.76 --> 3990.76] right, after the angel of the Lord passed over them when they took refuge under the blood of the lamb painted on their doorposts. -[3990.80 --> 3998.10] This becomes a community festival and a celebration of God's deliverance of his people out of Egypt. -[3998.10 --> 4000.84] They were to do this at the beginning of the year. -[4001.46 --> 4007.18] The second festival, the Feast of Harvest, is sometimes called the Feast of Weeks, -[4007.34 --> 4010.68] and it's held seven weeks after that first festival. -[4011.36 --> 4019.28] Now, if you do the math, you might recognize the more common name of this festival that we know in the Christian tradition. -[4019.28 --> 4022.40] It's called Pentecost, right? -[4022.52 --> 4024.98] Seven days, or seven weeks, 50 days. -[4025.70 --> 4028.04] Pentecoste is Greek for 50th. -[4028.88 --> 4035.68] This is the celebration of the first fruits of the harvest, the first crop to be gathered up. -[4035.76 --> 4038.44] It's a symbol of the harvest that is to come. -[4039.28 --> 4046.48] It is a tangible expression of what is as yet in the future, but you can be sure that it is coming. -[4046.48 --> 4055.10] Now, the little bits of this harvest represents the whole lot that's going to come later. -[4056.18 --> 4061.04] And the final festival, the festival of ingathering, comes at the end of the year. -[4062.00 --> 4071.88] It's sometimes called the festival of booths because it symbolizes Israel living in temporary shelters during their wandering period. -[4072.72 --> 4075.66] And ingathering is the sort of final harvest. -[4075.66 --> 4084.40] Throughout the Bible, this festival is tied to the Israelites coming into the land and then the land being productive, right? -[4084.46 --> 4087.38] In the land, they can plant and they can plant roots. -[4088.18 --> 4098.16] They can be around long enough for a full harvest of crops to come and then to establish themselves and culture and history and presence. -[4098.16 --> 4108.66] What we're recognizing in the festival or what they're asked to be recognized in the festival is that the ability of the land to produce is a gift of God. -[4109.36 --> 4109.76] Right? -[4109.86 --> 4112.84] And really, it's all a gift of God. -[4112.84 --> 4119.66] The point of this festival is everything you have is from God. -[4120.66 --> 4121.04] Right? -[4121.06 --> 4123.60] It's a celebration of our daily bread. -[4124.16 --> 4125.04] We sometimes pray. -[4125.44 --> 4125.58] Right? -[4125.62 --> 4130.30] It's a thanksgiving for God's gifts to all his people. -[4130.30 --> 4140.32] In a sense, the people use this festival to look around at all that God is doing for them and with them and through them. -[4140.32 --> 4143.96] And they count their blessings as they look. -[4145.86 --> 4155.04] And so these three festivals, these three rhythms of life, look back, they look forward, and they look around. -[4155.04 --> 4162.82] Unleavened bread, harvest, and ingathering, back, forward, and around. -[4164.22 --> 4168.06] That is the rhythm of a worshiping life. -[4169.96 --> 4173.68] That is the rhythm of life with God. -[4174.34 --> 4177.78] Look back at the deliverance accomplished by God in Jesus. -[4177.78 --> 4187.12] Look forward to the hope that is promised of the kingdom come in its fullness, just like the festival of first fruits and harvest. -[4187.38 --> 4187.50] Right? -[4187.54 --> 4192.72] We already have a little taste of that, but we look forward to its full fulfillment. -[4193.32 --> 4201.48] And then look around you at your present circumstances, seeing God's work in providing for we, his people. -[4201.48 --> 4202.74] Right? -[4202.78 --> 4216.66] This rhythm is why it makes sense for the Apostle Paul in the New Testament, in 1 Corinthians, to talk about Jesus' resurrection as the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. -[4217.34 --> 4217.46] Right? -[4217.54 --> 4223.20] Jesus' resurrection is the tangible, concrete evidence of the full harvest to come. -[4223.42 --> 4223.62] Right? -[4223.66 --> 4225.62] The resurrection of all who believe. -[4227.14 --> 4231.04] In a minute, we're going to participate in the Lord's Supper. -[4231.48 --> 4238.16] And this is a meal that is, in our imaginations, obviously connected to the Passover festival. -[4238.58 --> 4238.72] Right? -[4238.74 --> 4241.74] Not just because that's when Jesus instituted it. -[4241.98 --> 4242.12] Right? -[4242.18 --> 4244.64] He was coming with his disciples to celebrate Passover. -[4245.00 --> 4249.20] But because in it, we proclaim the Lord's death until he comes again. -[4250.20 --> 4250.74] Right? -[4250.78 --> 4255.34] In this supper, we look back and we remember God's deliverance. -[4255.34 --> 4262.90] But at the same time, this table anticipates the table of the eternal banquet of the King. -[4263.38 --> 4263.58] Right? -[4263.62 --> 4267.06] The table to come so that we can look forward to that day. -[4267.06 --> 4276.64] And again, this table is a table where the body of Jesus takes in the body of Jesus. -[4277.00 --> 4289.26] Where we, as brothers and sisters in Christ, a new type of family, come so that we can look around at the context of our faith lived in the world, -[4289.50 --> 4294.82] nourished by the spiritual presence of Christ available in the bread and the wine. -[4294.82 --> 4301.40] The table is a looking back and a looking forward and a looking around. -[4301.58 --> 4305.06] The table is a rhythm of faith. -[4306.20 --> 4306.72] Right? -[4306.76 --> 4310.74] It's a rhythm of faith in a nice, neat, and tidy package. -[4311.02 --> 4313.80] But our rhythm of worship is the same. -[4314.22 --> 4314.38] Right? -[4314.38 --> 4317.18] Every Lord's Day, and for us, that's Sunday. -[4317.64 --> 4322.02] But to be honest, the particular day doesn't actually matter all that much to me. -[4322.10 --> 4323.68] It's the rhythm of it. -[4324.08 --> 4324.88] Now, don't get me wrong. -[4325.12 --> 4325.26] Right? -[4325.88 --> 4330.70] There's value in being connected to the history of the Christian tradition that worships on Sunday. -[4330.84 --> 4337.54] There is theological value in being connected to Sunday as the day that Jesus was resurrected from the dead and us gathering. -[4337.54 --> 4343.80] But if you're part of a church that rents a facility and all you have is Saturday night together, awesome. -[4344.42 --> 4345.06] Do it. -[4345.72 --> 4345.86] Right? -[4345.88 --> 4352.82] If you're a shift worker and Sundays are just ruled out of your opportunity to worship, but Wednesday is the day that you can catch the live stream, -[4352.88 --> 4359.30] or Wednesday is the day that you get together with your care group and that's your meaningful experience of the body, awesome. -[4359.88 --> 4360.28] Perfect. -[4360.44 --> 4362.94] It's the rhythm that matters most. -[4362.94 --> 4371.76] It's the priority of rhythm and the ritual of worship in encountering Jesus. -[4372.46 --> 4372.60] Right? -[4372.68 --> 4385.68] Again, in looking back, looking ahead, and looking around through a lens now focused on the work of God in the world in a general way and in your life in particular. -[4385.68 --> 4392.24] And these rhythms practice with weekly repetition. -[4392.94 --> 4397.16] These rhythms nuanced with different daily additions. -[4397.76 --> 4400.16] Or maybe you read your Bible and pray every day. -[4400.24 --> 4401.36] Or you're part of a Bible study. -[4401.44 --> 4402.32] Or you fast. -[4402.86 --> 4404.38] A regular occurrence. -[4405.16 --> 4405.28] Right? -[4405.32 --> 4410.68] And then every once in a while, maybe you add in one of these bigger celebrations or these bigger activities. -[4410.68 --> 4414.08] Like a three times a year community festival of worship. -[4414.08 --> 4417.10] Or like a mission trip to Mexico. -[4417.10 --> 4421.58] Or like six months with Cape and Ray in Costa Rica. -[4421.58 --> 4424.46] Or two years with YWAM in Indonesia. -[4424.46 --> 4428.02] Or a summer on the South Coast Beach Project in Ontario. -[4428.02 --> 4432.52] Or a retreat into the interior with a canoe and a backpack and a Bible. -[4433.02 --> 4434.04] And you go. -[4434.04 --> 4444.40] These rhythms can become to you like mornings with your phone. -[4444.78 --> 4447.56] Or to me, like mornings with my phone if you're better than me. -[4448.20 --> 4448.40] Right? -[4448.44 --> 4449.36] You just do it. -[4450.00 --> 4451.54] You don't think about it. -[4452.28 --> 4455.96] In fact, it feels weird and unnatural when you don't do it. -[4455.98 --> 4456.08] Right? -[4456.10 --> 4457.32] And some of you know what I mean here. -[4457.32 --> 4460.00] You start your day with Bible reading and with prayer. -[4460.16 --> 4463.66] And on the mornings that you miss it, for whatever reason, the day feels off. -[4464.44 --> 4465.80] The whole day feels strange. -[4466.88 --> 4472.18] And look, I'm not trying to create a new legalism here. -[4472.28 --> 4477.26] I'm not trying to burden you with a new sense of overwhelming responsibility. -[4477.68 --> 4479.06] In fact, quite the opposite. -[4479.74 --> 4486.10] Right here, I am talking about the formative power of spiritual, of religious habit. -[4486.10 --> 4489.74] of doing something over and over and over again. -[4490.02 --> 4492.84] And that has an impact on you. -[4493.94 --> 4494.72] And hear what I said there. -[4495.10 --> 4499.64] Doing something over and over again has an impact on you. -[4500.02 --> 4503.44] You don't do it over and over again so that it has an impact on you. -[4504.10 --> 4506.72] It has an impact on you. -[4507.60 --> 4512.32] Let me make an analogy that some of you will realize hits pretty close to home. -[4512.32 --> 4518.34] I did a sort of soft social experiment on myself a couple years ago. -[4519.10 --> 4530.22] For a period of time, all I ever listened to on the radio or on podcasts was conservative news heads and conservative theological speakers. -[4530.22 --> 4546.42] And over that period of time, and it wasn't a long one actually, the very words that I would use regularly, the very phrases that I would parrot back in conversation were not my own, but they were those of those talking heads that I would listen to. -[4546.42 --> 4553.62] Right? The thoughts in my own head took the form of the ideas and the ideologies that I heard. -[4554.58 --> 4564.66] Now, seeing the impact of that and reflecting on my own self and my own self awareness, I switched courses as part of this sort of self social experiment. -[4564.66 --> 4571.12] And so for a period of time, all I listened to was progressive news heads and progressive theological speakers. -[4571.34 --> 4572.96] And the exact same thing happened. -[4573.72 --> 4580.30] Right? Over time, my language, my thoughts, and my ideas took the form of what I was being exposed to. -[4583.42 --> 4584.60] I still see it. -[4584.60 --> 4591.80] If I'm reading a good book, right, parts of it or the language that it uses will make its way into my preaching. -[4591.80 --> 4593.82] Right? Not by conscious effort. -[4593.82 --> 4594.92] It just happens. -[4594.92 --> 4600.52] In fact, I can tell you that right now I'm reading a book about Abraham Kuyper and his impact on the secular age. -[4600.52 --> 4601.88] Do you remember who I quoted earlier? -[4601.88 --> 4605.00] Abraham Kuyper and his impact on the secular age. -[4605.00 --> 4613.40] Now, I say this not to offer social or political commentary. -[4613.40 --> 4619.60] But just to say that whatever you put in is what comes out. -[4619.60 --> 4634.64] No matter how high functioning your critical faculties may be, the rhythm and ritual of repeated exposure gets past your head and into your heart. -[4636.08 --> 4640.72] And so what you put in matters. -[4640.72 --> 4650.80] What rhythms you keep creates those deep grooves of cognition and behavior. -[4650.80 --> 4656.84] The rhythms of six days working and the seventh day off. -[4656.84 --> 4659.60] The rhythms of a seven-year sabbatical. -[4659.60 --> 4662.36] The rhythms of three times a year festivals. -[4662.36 --> 4666.68] All have a power to shape us. -[4666.68 --> 4675.00] This is the form and the formative power of religious habit. -[4675.00 --> 4678.04] And so let me ask you. -[4678.04 --> 4680.24] What are your rhythms? -[4680.24 --> 4683.64] What are your habits? -[4683.64 --> 4687.40] And how are they shaping you? -[4687.40 --> 4688.40] Right? -[4688.40 --> 4689.40] Right? -[4689.40 --> 4697.68] And if you have it in your capacity this morning and over this next week, how are they unconsciously shaping you? -[4697.68 --> 4710.52] And so for something to do this week, what well-worn grooves are you actually shaping? -[4710.52 --> 4714.26] What intentions are you bringing? -[4714.44 --> 4718.92] What rhythms are you creating in your life? -[4718.92 --> 4725.04] And are they drawing you nearer to God and to his church? -[4725.04 --> 4733.90] Or are they drawing you nearer to something or someone else and away from his church? -[4733.90 --> 4738.90] 1 Timothy 4. -[4738.90 --> 4740.14] Paul says to Timothy. -[4740.14 --> 4742.90] Now remember, Timothy is Paul's young protege. -[4742.90 --> 4750.06] And he's trying to train him up in the faith to be a good and strong leader in the Christian church. -[4750.06 --> 4752.02] Paul says to Timothy, -[4752.02 --> 4756.10] Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales. -[4756.10 --> 4760.54] Rather, train yourself to be godly. -[4761.74 --> 4763.66] For physical training is of some value. -[4763.90 --> 4767.74] But godliness has a value for all things. -[4767.74 --> 4772.66] Holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. -[4772.66 --> 4775.02] What is Paul saying here? -[4777.02 --> 4781.94] Training yourself in the faith takes work. -[4783.06 --> 4791.64] Living obediently in relationship to God in Jesus Christ is a discipline and a matter of discipline. -[4791.64 --> 4796.64] Godliness has value for all things. -[4796.64 --> 4803.42] What rhythms and habits are giving value for all things in your life? -[4803.42 --> 4814.58] If you were here yesterday at the wedding or if you know the text that Matt and Nicole had us reflect on, -[4814.58 --> 4818.42] It's from 1 Thessalonians 5, 16 to 18. -[4818.42 --> 4820.74] It says, Rejoice always. -[4820.74 --> 4822.74] Pray continually. -[4822.74 --> 4826.70] Give thanks in all circumstances. -[4826.70 --> 4830.58] For this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. -[4830.58 --> 4833.98] Look back. -[4834.22 --> 4836.14] Look forward. -[4836.14 --> 4837.14] Look forward. -[4837.14 --> 4838.14] And look around. -[4838.14 --> 4838.18] Look around. -[4838.18 --> 4843.02] These are the rhythms of the Christian life. -[4844.90 --> 4849.98] So let's come to the table so that we can look back and see Jesus. -[4849.98 --> 4855.54] Let's come to the table so that we can look ahead and see the promise of his kingdom come and kingdom coming. -[4855.54 --> 4861.78] And let's come to the table so that we can look around and see brothers and sisters in Christ -[4861.78 --> 4864.36] and know that we are not alone. -[4864.50 --> 4866.90] To know that we are part of this kingdom. -[4867.06 --> 4872.24] To know that God himself has granted us and given us new life. -[4872.24 --> 4880.88] We come together so that we can go into this week to live out of these shared rhythms. -[4882.88 --> 4885.54] Let's come to the table. -[4886.20 --> 4887.24] Let me pray with you. -[4891.74 --> 4900.40] Lord Jesus, as we come to this table, we pray that here we might look back and see you. -[4900.40 --> 4904.64] We pray that here that we might look forward and see you. -[4904.78 --> 4912.12] We pray that here we might look around and see you in the faces of our brothers and sisters of faith. -[4914.10 --> 4916.86] Nourish our hearts in these rhythms. -[4917.54 --> 4918.38] Shape us. -[4919.10 --> 4925.42] Transform us by the renewing of our mind as this is our spiritual act of worship. -[4928.42 --> 4930.18] We come, Lord God. -[4930.40 --> 4934.90] Waiting to encounter you. -[4936.36 --> 4937.52] Come, Lord God. -[4937.62 --> 4941.74] Waiting for you to meet us here. -[4943.12 --> 4947.82] And so, Lord, meet us at the table. -[4948.78 --> 4949.90] In your name we pray. -[4950.80 --> 4951.12] Amen. -[4951.12 --> 4951.28] Amen. -[4951.28 --> 4951.30] Amen. -[4960.40 --> 4968.92] This next song that we're going to sing as a song of response is new to us. -[4969.16 --> 4969.86] It's new to me. -[4970.62 --> 4974.78] But it is based on the Psalm 130. -[4975.36 --> 4978.22] And so, we invite you to listen and join in as you are able. -[4978.22 --> 4989.16] And please rise. -[4989.16 --> 5010.78] Out of the depths I cry to you. -[5010.78 --> 5017.10] In darkest places I will call. -[5017.10 --> 5023.10] Incline your ear to me anew. -[5023.10 --> 5029.10] And hear my cry for mercy, Lord. -[5029.10 --> 5035.10] Were you to count my sinful ways. -[5035.10 --> 5041.10] How could I come before your throne? -[5041.10 --> 5047.10] Yet full forgiveness meets my face. -[5047.10 --> 5053.10] I stand redeemed by grace alone. -[5053.10 --> 5059.10] I will wait for you. -[5059.10 --> 5065.10] On your word I will rely. -[5065.10 --> 5067.10] I will wait for you. -[5067.10 --> 5069.10] Surely wait for you. -[5069.10 --> 5073.10] Till my soul is satisfied. -[5073.10 --> 5083.10] So put your hope in God alone. -[5083.10 --> 5093.10] Decouraging his power to stay. -[5093.10 --> 5103.10] Completely and forever one. -[5103.10 --> 5105.10] By Christ emerging from the grave. -[5105.10 --> 5107.10] By Christ emerging from the grave. -[5107.10 --> 5110.10] I will wait for you. -[5110.10 --> 5114.10] I will wait for you. -[5114.10 --> 5115.10] I will wait for you. -[5115.10 --> 5119.10] On your word I will rely. -[5119.10 --> 5129.10] I will wait for you, surely wait for you, till my soul is satisfied. -[5129.10 --> 5154.30] Fast love has made a way, and God himself has paid the price, that all who trust in him today, find healing in his sacrifice. -[5154.30 --> 5166.74] I will wait for you, I will wait for you, through the storm and through the night. -[5166.74 --> 5177.80] I will wait for you, surely wait for you, for your love is my delight. -[5184.30 --> 5187.98] Do you in genial boat? -[5187.98 --> 5192.38] Am Iвод? -[5192.38 --> 5218.40] You may go ahead and have a seat. -[5218.40 --> 5218.92] Thank you. -[5222.38 --> 5232.26] At his last supper, the Lord Jesus, he took bread. -[5233.46 --> 5237.26] And when he had given thanks, he broke it and he said, -[5237.26 --> 5241.48] This is my body, which is for you. -[5243.94 --> 5247.68] Do this in remembrance of me. -[5247.68 --> 5253.00] And in the same way, after supper, he took the cup and he said, -[5253.24 --> 5256.26] This cup is the new covenant in my blood. -[5256.92 --> 5259.54] Do this in remembrance of me. -[5259.68 --> 5263.08] For whenever we eat this bread and drink this cup, -[5263.20 --> 5266.86] we proclaim the Lord's death until he comes again. -[5266.86 --> 5274.42] Therefore, we proclaim our faith as signed and sealed in this sacrament. -[5274.42 --> 5289.06] Church family, the Lord has prepared his table for all who love him -[5289.06 --> 5292.32] and who trust in him alone for their salvation. -[5293.38 --> 5296.94] And so come to this table. -[5296.94 --> 5304.88] Come to this table. -[5304.88 --> 5304.90] Come to this table. -[5304.90 --> 5304.92] Come to this table. -[5304.92 --> 5310.44] You who have been to this sacrament often and you who have not been for a long time. -[5311.70 --> 5312.80] Come to this table. -[5312.94 --> 5317.10] You who have tried to follow Jesus and you who have failed. -[5317.10 --> 5319.10] Come to this table. -[5319.10 --> 5323.90] Come to this table if you are here or if you are at home. -[5325.02 --> 5331.06] It is Christ himself who invites us to meet him here. -[5331.56 --> 5334.66] And so come to the table. -[5335.66 --> 5339.60] The gifts of God for the people of God. -[5347.10 --> 5377.08] You who have been to this table. -[5377.10 --> 5407.08] You who have been to this table. -[5407.08 --> 5409.08] Jesus Christ. -[5409.08 --> 5414.08] I love the Holy Lamb of God. -[5414.08 --> 5420.22] Oh, wash me in his precious blood. -[5420.70 --> 5422.08] My Jesus Christ. -[5422.86 --> 5426.38] The Lamb of God. -[5426.38 --> 5433.90] Your gift of love they crucified -[5433.90 --> 5439.90] They laughed and scorned him as he died -[5440.68 --> 5445.90] The humble king they named a fraud -[5446.48 --> 5451.90] And sacrificed the Lamb of God -[5451.90 --> 5458.26] O Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God -[5458.26 --> 5463.92] I love the holy Lamb of God -[5463.92 --> 5469.72] O wash me in his precious blood -[5469.72 --> 5475.66] My Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God -[5475.66 --> 5484.02] I was so lost, I should have died -[5484.02 --> 5491.02] But you have brought me to your side -[5491.02 --> 5497.12] To be led by your staff and rod -[5497.12 --> 5503.36] And to be called the Lamb of God -[5503.36 --> 5509.02] O Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God -[5509.02 --> 5514.80] I love the holy Lamb of God -[5514.80 --> 5520.66] O wash me in his precious blood -[5520.66 --> 5526.68] My Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God -[5526.68 --> 5532.40] O Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God -[5532.40 --> 5538.12] I love the holy Lamb of God -[5538.12 --> 5543.84] O wash me in his precious blood -[5543.84 --> 5550.12] My Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God -[5550.12 --> 5562.98] The body of Christ given for you -[5562.98 --> 5566.42] So take, eat, remember and believe -[5566.42 --> 5567.96] that the body of Jesus Christ was given -[5567.96 --> 5570.14] for the complete and absolute forgiveness -[5570.14 --> 5572.38] of all our sins -[5572.38 --> 5602.36] And to be called the Lamb of God -[5602.38 --> 5632.36] O Lord, sweet Lamb of God -[5632.36 --> 5634.36] How beautiful -[5634.36 --> 5662.34] The Lamb of God -[5662.34 --> 5679.02] How beautiful, how beautiful is the body of Christ. -[5679.02 --> 5695.02] How beautiful, how beautiful the heart that bled, that took all my sin and bore it instead. -[5695.02 --> 5709.28] How beautiful, the tender eyes that chose to forgive and never despise. -[5709.28 --> 5731.12] How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful is the body of Christ. -[5731.12 --> 5743.14] And as He laid down His life, we offer this sacrifice. -[5744.52 --> 5755.90] That we will live just as He died, willing to pay the price. -[5755.90 --> 5762.72] Willing to pay the price. -[5764.64 --> 5778.94] How beautiful, the radiant bride, who waits for the room with His light in her eyes. -[5778.94 --> 5791.94] How beautiful, when humble hearts give the fruit of pure lies, so that others might live. -[5791.94 --> 5813.94] How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful is the body of Christ. -[5813.94 --> 5831.72] How beautiful, the feet that bring, the sound of good news and the love of the King. -[5831.72 --> 5833.72] How beautiful, how beautiful. -[5833.72 --> 5844.60] How beautiful, the hands that serve, the wine and the bread, and the sons of the earth. -[5844.60 --> 5868.60] How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful is the body of Christ. -[5868.60 --> 5888.10] How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful, How beautiful,kä видeth. -[5888.24 --> 5898.58] How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful, how bright, and the splendor, how beautiful, glowed, and the love of the Lord. -[5898.58 --> 5910.68] I'm going to invite you to stand. -[5911.60 --> 5913.86] We're going to close with a prayer, -[5914.60 --> 5917.54] and then right after the prayer, -[5917.70 --> 5922.86] we will receive the blessing of our God and sing together. -[5923.64 --> 5927.22] Just a reminder that we are having coffee following the service, -[5927.22 --> 5932.60] and to help facilitate that, since this was a last-minute invitation, -[5933.10 --> 5937.44] we might need some people to jump into their volunteer roles and help with that, -[5937.52 --> 5939.92] and then even equally as important, perhaps even more so, -[5940.46 --> 5943.54] after the service of coffee, to do the dishes -[5943.54 --> 5945.56] and to make sure everything gets cleaned up and put away. -[5945.66 --> 5947.60] So if that's something that you are able to do, -[5948.12 --> 5950.42] we would receive that with deep gratitude. -[5951.28 --> 5952.22] Let's pray together. -[5952.22 --> 5959.80] Lord, our God, in deep gratitude for this moment, -[5960.50 --> 5962.16] for this meal, -[5962.70 --> 5964.52] for these people, -[5965.02 --> 5967.80] we give ourselves to you. -[5969.40 --> 5973.04] Take us out to live as changed people, -[5973.04 --> 5976.74] because we have shared the living bread together -[5976.74 --> 5978.48] and cannot remain the same. -[5978.48 --> 5981.84] Ask much of us. -[5982.70 --> 5985.68] Expect much from us. -[5986.46 --> 5988.98] Enable much by us. -[5989.16 --> 5991.78] And encourage many through us. -[5993.08 --> 5998.14] So, Lord, may we live to your glory, -[5998.60 --> 6001.02] both as inhabitants of earth -[6001.02 --> 6004.66] and as citizens of the kingdom of heaven. -[6004.66 --> 6008.02] Looking back, -[6008.54 --> 6010.16] we look forward, -[6011.06 --> 6012.10] we look around, -[6012.80 --> 6014.76] and now we go. -[6016.04 --> 6019.16] We go with your blessing. -[6020.74 --> 6021.86] May God go before you -[6021.86 --> 6023.16] to guard you. -[6024.32 --> 6025.78] May God go behind you -[6025.78 --> 6026.64] to protect you. -[6027.64 --> 6029.14] May God go beneath you -[6029.14 --> 6029.98] to support you. -[6030.46 --> 6031.94] May God go beside you -[6031.94 --> 6032.94] to befriend you. -[6032.94 --> 6034.94] Do not be afraid. -[6035.60 --> 6036.70] Let the blessing of God -[6036.70 --> 6037.64] come upon you today. -[6037.76 --> 6039.18] Do not be afraid, -[6039.58 --> 6041.72] but go in peace -[6041.72 --> 6044.80] to love and serve the Lord. -[6046.16 --> 6046.84] Amen. -[6046.84 --> 6046.90] Amen. -[6046.90 --> 6066.28] My friends, may you grow in grace, -[6066.28 --> 6071.34] and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior. -[6071.34 --> 6078.60] My friends, may you grow in grace, -[6078.60 --> 6084.12] and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. -[6084.12 --> 6088.16] To God be the glory, -[6088.16 --> 6091.16] now and forever, -[6091.16 --> 6094.40] now and forever. -[6094.40 --> 6095.56] Amen. -[6095.56 --> 6100.56] To God be the glory, -[6100.56 --> 6102.56] now and forever, -[6102.56 --> 6103.56] now and forever. -[6103.56 --> 6104.56] Amen. -[6104.56 --> 6105.56] Now and forever. -[6105.56 --> 6106.56] Now and forever. -[6106.56 --> 6107.56] Amen. -[6107.56 --> 6108.56] Now and forever. -[6108.56 --> 6109.56] Amen. -[6109.56 --> 6112.56] My friends, may you grow in grace, -[6112.56 --> 6116.56] may you grow in grace, -[6116.56 --> 6122.56] and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior. -[6122.56 --> 6129.56] My friends, may you grow in grace, -[6129.56 --> 6132.56] and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. -[6132.56 --> 6136.54] and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. -[6136.56 --> 6141.04] To God be the glory, -[6141.54 --> 6144.86] now and forever, -[6144.86 --> 6146.38] now and forever. -[6146.38 --> 6160.38] forever -[6164.78 --> 6174.38] to god be the glory now and forever -[6176.38 --> 6196.38] amen to god be the glory now and forever now and forever amen -[6206.38 --> 6216.38] so -[6216.38 --> 6226.38] so -[6226.38 --> 6236.38] so -[6236.38 --> 6246.38] so -[6246.38 --> 6248.38] so -[6248.38 --> 6250.38] so -[6250.38 --> 6252.38] so diff --git a/Sunday Worship - March 19, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - March 19, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 662a979f706b92749c48cff67bf77f396518ecfe..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - March 19, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,208 +0,0 @@ -• Regret and shame -• God's forgiveness and redemption -• The power of Christ's sacrifice on the cross -• Personal struggles with self-worth and sin -• The sufficiency of God's grace in the face of past mistakes and failures -• Praise and worship of God as a lion and lamb -• The power and authority of God in battle and salvation -• Personal experience of feeling empty and being brought back to life by God -• March break Sunday worship gathering and announcements -• Introduction of pastor Chris and invitation for guests to connect with the church -• Young adult potluck at church -• Worship service announcements -• Invitation to receive the greeting of God -• Passing the peace of Christ -• Introduction to song "Behold Our God" -• Isaiah passage about God's power and glory -• Struggles in personal lives, including stress, grief, inflation, etc. -• Verse 11 of Isaiah 40 about God as a shepherd -• God's love and care for each person -• Singing the song "Behold Our God" -• Worshiping God's majesty and authority -• Jesus' sacrifice and love for humanity -• The power of prayer and seeking God -• Revival and spiritual awakening -• Confession of sin and dependence on God's mercy -• Seeking to know and love God more deeply -• Personal prayer and confession -• Stockget story (no clear reference) -• Invocation of God, guest's family, and thanks for listening -• Reflection on God's love and forgiveness through Jesus Christ -• Worship song lyrics about God's amazing love and sacrifice -• Praise to God for His kindness, compassion, and goodness -• The Lord's character is slow to anger and rich in love -• A family is being sponsored by the church through World Renew, a refugee sponsorship fund -• The application process has been filed with the government, but approval still pending -• The congregation is asked to give an offering to support the refugee sponsorship fund -• The cost of sponsoring a family for a year will be around $40,000 -• God's blessings are invoked multiple times during the service as people give offerings -• The speaker leads the congregation in a worship song about waiting for God's love and presence. -• The children are invited to go to children's worship time, with parents encouraged to stay or leave their kids in care. -• A discussion ensues about "March break" being an Ontario-specific term, which is then confirmed by a visitor's family who uses the same terminology. -• Haley is praised for correcting the speaker on the term, and her loose tooth is mentioned as a notable occurrence. -• The congregation participates in a blessing ceremony, led by the speaker, where children stand and recite "The Lord be with you" while the adults respond with "And also with you". -• Prayers for various individuals and groups, including the Skipper and Vanderhoek families, Sai Visser, and the Mexico team -• Blessings and comfort requested for those traveling or experiencing difficult times -• Reflection on Romans 5:12-21 in a church series on the book of Romans -• Romans 5 scripture passage -• Sin and death through one man (Adam) -• Comparison of sin's impact to God's gift of salvation through Jesus Christ -• Contrast of condemnation vs justification for all people due to one man's actions -• The law and its role in increasing trespasses, but also increasing grace -• Watching the men's team play and beat McMaster University -• Malachi, who has never played volleyball before, contributing to Trinity's win -• The speaker's children expressing excitement and understanding of winning in sports -• Examples of teams and players that have won recently (Leafs, Canes, Edmonton, Canucks) -• Discussion of a "union" or connection to being part of a team or community -• Relationship with Adam and original sin -• Sin enters the world through one man (Adam) -• Definition of sin: exchanging God's truth for a lie or suppressing God's truth to serve created things -• All sin is idolatry, stemming from having a better idea about what is good than God does -• Paul's phrase "out of a depraved mind" in chapter 1, verse 28 -• Lists in the Bible that show specific acts of sinning and how they compound in our hearts and lives -• The concept that there is no one righteous or seeking God, as stated in Romans chapter 3 -• The origin of sin through Adam, who represents all humanity -• The story of Adam and the mandate to rule over the earth -• Comparison between Adam's actions and humanity's subsequent actions -• The idea that we are born into sin due to Adam's rebellion -• Critique of modern Western society's individualistic worldview -• Discussion on how this worldview affects our understanding of God and morality -• Authority and representation are not always based on direct election or choice -• Individuals have the power to choose their own path and decisions in life -• Responsibility for one's actions and outcomes lies with the individual -• Communities are more voluntary associations than representative bodies -• Family relationships can be chosen, even if they were involuntary at birth -• Consent and authority -• Voluntary relationships and power dynamics -• Representation and decision-making on behalf of others -• Authority, election, and delegation of power in democratic systems -• Democratic society and access to information for voting -• Need for roads paved and representatives in government -• Lawyers and attorneys acting on behalf of clients -• Power of Attorney for aged or unable individuals -• Parallels between legal cases and selecting representatives -• The idea of headship and representation in the Bible -• Common humanity or human solidarity as a principle -• The concept of legitimacy in relationships and shared outcomes -• Paul's teachings on representative headship in Romans 5 -• Comparison between biblical and modern approaches to headship and representation -• Commentary on the importance of understanding solidarity in human relationships -• Theology and the concept of federal headship -• Etymology of the word "federal" from Latin meaning treaty or covenant -• Relationship between Adam as federal head and responsibility for others' actions -• Critique of Adam's election as federal head without individual consent -• Comparison to human voting systems and desire for personal choice in leadership selection -• God chose Adam to be the head of humanity -• God would not have chosen someone who could do a better job than Adam -• The speaker reflects on their own life and believes they would have done a similar job to Adam, but more efficiently -• The speaker questions why God created humans in the first place -• The speaker suggests that humans are prone to making mistakes and should be grateful for their limitations -• Creation of Adam and his purpose -• Sin entering the world through one man (Adam) -• Death coming to all people due to sin -• Adam as the federal head of humanity, responsible for its actions -• Need for a new head to represent humanity under God's covenant -• New covenant partner necessary to bring life and salvation -• Overcoming sin and death -• Paul's point in Romans 15: Verse 16 about the gift vs trespass of one man -• The contrast between the trespass of Adam and the gift of God's grace through Jesus Christ -• The concept of federal headship and its implications -• The relationship between salvation, federal headship, and obedience to God -• Death is a consequence of trespass -• Everyone after Adam is bound in spiritual and physical death -• Physical and spiritual death are tied together intimately -• Contrast with Jesus, who brought redemption from sin and death -• A pastor mentioned Jan Parabum, who served churches for 45 years -• He was fond of the phrase "the super abundant grace of God" -• The phrase "super abundant" is discussed in relation to the word "grace" -• A comparison is made between the reign of death through Adam and the gift of righteousness through Jesus -• Paul says that those who receive God's provision of grace will have more of it, but also emphasizes that there is a difference between the two states -• Jesus died on the cross -• He needs to bear punishment for our sin -• We need His perfect righteousness, obedience, and life lived in our place perfectly keeping the law as our federal head -• Righteousness is credited to us through faith in Christ's work and trusting God's promises in the Gospel -• Contrast between Adam and Jesus -• Disobedience and death vs righteousness through faith by God's grace -• The need to believe in order for change to occur -• Reign of life vs reign of death -• Impersonal and dehumanizing nature of death -• Jesus' role in changing the subject from death to life -• Christianity is not about exchanging one slavery for another, but rather living in Christ's kingship and reigning with Him -• The right head (Christ) makes us kings and queens, while the wrong head (Adam) leads to death and slavery -• Those who believe in Christ are made alive and reign with Him, whereas those who follow Adam are under his deathly influence -• True Christianity is about living a life of faith and grace, not just professing a creed or following rules -• Many people misunderstand what it means to live a Christian life, often bringing preconceived notions and ideas that are contrary to the true teachings of Christ -• Different things that give joy and fulfillment -• Christianity as a form of bondage -• The truth of the gospel: apart from Christ, one is in slavery or bondage -• Recognizing and being trapped by our sinful nature and the world's influences -• The problem of seeing freedom offered by Jesus as not making sense -• Freedom and sin -• The nature of freedom -• Jesus' offer of true freedom -• Relationship with God as the source of freedom -• Verse 20: Sin and grace in relation to salvation -• Humanity's capacity for sin and its consequences at the cross -• The crucifixion of God and its meaning -• Human capacity for evil and the concept of sin -• God's plan of redemption and salvation -• The triumph of grace over sin and death -• The empty tomb and Jesus' victory over death -• The implications of these events for believers -• Salvation is available through faith, not past actions or sins. -• Past sins such as murder, adultery, and paganism do not disqualify one from salvation. -• Addiction to substances like pornography, cocaine, and alcohol does not prevent salvation. -• Self-definition and self-worth are not based on past mistakes but on current relationship with God through Jesus Christ. -• Faith in Jesus sets individuals free from slavery to past sins. -• The nature of unity with Christ -• Leaving past attachments and influences behind -• Not being defined by others or external forces -• Being united to Christ through faith and grace -• Understanding the union between Christ and believers -• Being united to Christ -• Mission of being united in Christ -• Ordering life by His design -• Repenting and obeying God's commands -• Serving the lost and needy -• Holding fast to faith -• Igniting faith through devotion, Bible study, reading, prayer, and drawing closer to God -• Repentance -• Serving God -• Worshiping God -• Living a new life in Christ -• Reigning with Him -• Declaring His praises -• Faith and worship as a call to action -• Prayer for guidance and understanding of the gospel -• Seeking fresh eyes to see the truth and live it out. -• Request for help and guidance -• Seeking to work with the speaker -• Repentance and serving others -• Faith and holding on to one's faith -• Being sent out by the speaker -• Living a life ignited by the Holy Spirit -• Proclaiming the gospel with boldness -• Singing of God's goodness in Jesus Christ -• Gratitude for the speaker's voice and guidance -• Faithfulness and goodness of God throughout life -• Feeling close to and trust in a higher authority figure -• Appreciation for the sense of security and home provided -• Letting go and surrendering to a greater power -• Surrendering one's life and all possessions to a higher authority -• The speaker expresses gratitude for the goodness of God in their life -• Faithfulness and loyalty are mentioned as key aspects of a relationship with God -• The idea of union with Christ is discussed, including its implications and benefits -• Prayer and connection with others who share this understanding are offered -• Guidance and support are available for those seeking to deepen their faith. -• Invitation to a connection booth -• Explanation of blessing from God and its significance -• Reference to priestly blessing in Numbers 6:27 -• Discussion of God's blessing as identity and purpose -• Encouragement to receive God's blessing for the future -• Gratitude and petition to the Lord -• Restoration of peace and joy in Zion -• Overcoming suffering and adversity through faith -• Hope and confidence in God's presence and protection -• Renewal and restoration of hearts and lives -• Celebration and feasting in the house of Zion -• Expression of thanksgiving and gratitude \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - March 19, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - March 19, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6776b9907006e4d1d7906b464c50b889220b2ce8..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - March 19, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,4797 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 15.76] Testing, testing. -[15.76 --> 17.56] Good. -[17.56 --> 18.70] Okay. -[18.70 --> 19.82] Thanks. -[30.00 --> 32.00] Thanks. -[32.00 --> 33.00] Thanks. -[33.00 --> 35.00] The kind that won't go away. -[35.00 --> 40.00] When I turned around, they were right there to remind me. -[40.00 --> 42.00] I've seen regret. -[42.00 --> 46.00] The kind that messes with your hair. -[46.00 --> 49.00] The failures and the can't forgets. -[49.00 --> 53.00] But standing here now, I'm thinking, God, it's behind me. -[53.00 --> 59.00] Cause I've seen nails, scarred hands reach out and wipe it all away. -[59.00 --> 60.00] Yeah. -[60.00 --> 62.00] Now I see grace. -[62.00 --> 63.00] Hallelujah. -[63.00 --> 65.00] I stand amazed. -[65.00 --> 68.00] I'm staring at an empty grave. -[68.00 --> 72.00] And the stone that you rolled away. -[72.00 --> 73.00] Yeah. -[73.00 --> 76.00] When I was a prodigal, you saw, son. -[76.00 --> 80.00] When I left the night and night, you saw the one. -[80.00 --> 85.00] And just like that, all my past has been erased. -[85.00 --> 88.00] When I look back, I see grace. -[88.00 --> 92.00] I still hurt. -[92.00 --> 95.00] Fall short on what you say I'm worth. -[95.00 --> 100.00] And that devil says I don't deserve what you did on the cross. -[100.00 --> 101.00] And he's right. -[101.00 --> 102.00] Cause I don't. -[102.00 --> 104.00] But you did it anyway. -[104.00 --> 105.00] I see grace. -[105.00 --> 106.00] Hallelujah. -[106.00 --> 107.00] I stand. -[107.00 --> 108.00] I've seen shame. -[108.00 --> 109.00] The kind that comes from mistakes. -[109.00 --> 110.00] The kind that won't go away. -[110.00 --> 112.00] When I turned around, they were right there to remind me. -[112.00 --> 114.00] I've seen regret. -[114.00 --> 116.00] The kind that messes with your hair. -[116.00 --> 117.00] The failures and the can't forgets. -[117.00 --> 120.00] But standing here now, I'm thinking God is behind me. -[120.00 --> 122.00] Cause I've seen nails scarred hands reach out and wipe it all away. -[122.00 --> 123.00] Yeah. -[123.00 --> 124.00] Now I see grace. -[124.00 --> 125.00] Hallelujah. -[125.00 --> 126.00] I stand amazed. -[126.00 --> 129.00] I'm staring at an empty grave. -[129.00 --> 130.00] And the stone that you rolled away. -[130.00 --> 131.00] Yeah. -[131.00 --> 132.00] When I was with my grace. -[132.00 --> 133.00] I was with my grace. -[133.00 --> 134.00] I was with your hair. -[134.00 --> 135.00] And the failures and the can't forgets. -[135.00 --> 136.00] But standing here now, I'm thinking God is behind me. -[136.00 --> 141.00] Cause I've seen nails scarred hands reach out and wipe it all away. -[141.00 --> 142.00] oween. -[142.00 --> 143.00] Maya. -[143.00 --> 144.00] Bye-bye. -[144.00 --> 145.00] Fox adesso. -[146.00 --> 147.00] Herrera. -[147.00 --> 148.00] Good morning, Maize. -[148.00 --> 149.00] Good morning, maize. -[149.00 --> 150.00] R l favor. -[150.00 --> 151.00] Th身. -[151.00 --> 152.00] Fbook on maize. -[152.00 --> 155.00] And the gift or the has their own persite. -[155.00 --> 156.00] Oting these Mini. -[156.96 --> 158.00] Help get done, their Father. -[158.00 --> 161.00] Get down here, She runs on tang, Peel the high blood. -[161.00 --> 162.00] Hork. -[162.00 --> 163.00] Bam. -[163.00 --> 163.96] Hold theDER così -[163.96 --> 165.96] Be careful when I turn away. -[166.00 --> 169.00] Not only for the wild Stellen or the right, I period. -[169.00 --> 170.00] It has five馬ines gotten earned. -[170.00 --> 173.38] When I look back, I see grace. -[174.70 --> 179.90] I still hurt, fall short on what you say I'm worth. -[180.42 --> 184.64] And that devil says I don't deserve what you did on the cross. -[184.74 --> 186.18] And he's right, cause I don't. -[186.34 --> 188.26] But you did it anyway. -[188.44 --> 189.84] I see grace. -[190.52 --> 193.16] Hallelujah, I stand amazed. -[193.64 --> 196.38] I'm staring at an empty grave. -[196.38 --> 199.80] And the stone that you rolled away. -[200.96 --> 204.52] When I was prodigal, you saw the sun. -[204.78 --> 207.86] When I left the 99, you saw the one. -[208.12 --> 212.80] And just like that, all my past has been reversed. -[213.06 --> 218.72] When I look back, I see grace, grace. -[220.24 --> 222.12] God's grace. -[222.40 --> 225.24] Grace that is greater than all my sin. -[225.24 --> 228.48] Faith, God Almighty, gonna see it again. -[228.48 --> 232.06] Oh, praise, praise. -[233.00 --> 235.34] God's grace. -[235.34 --> 242.00] Grace that is greater than all my sin. -[242.00 --> 244.52] I see grace. -[244.52 --> 247.96] Hallelujah, I stand amazed. -[247.96 --> 250.92] I'm staring at an empty grave. -[250.92 --> 254.60] And the stone that you rolled away. -[254.60 --> 255.52] Yeah, yeah. -[255.52 --> 257.80] I was a prodigal. -[257.80 --> 259.18] You saw the sun. -[259.18 --> 262.46] When I left the 99, you saw the one. -[262.46 --> 267.42] And just like that, all my past has been erased. -[267.42 --> 271.38] When I look back, I see grace. -[271.38 --> 271.84] I see grace. -[271.84 --> 276.10] I see grace. -[276.10 --> 279.74] I see grace. -[279.74 --> 281.74] I see grace. -[281.74 --> 283.74] I see grace. -[283.74 --> 285.98] Grace. -[285.98 --> 287.34] Oh, grace. -[287.34 --> 290.00] Oh, grace. -[290.00 --> 297.74] Grace that is greater than all my sin. -[297.74 --> 312.00] Don't toil. -[312.12 --> 312.74] Oh. -[312.74 --> 315.02] , and you? -[315.02 --> 317.32] Oh, grace. -[317.32 --> 347.30] Thank you. -[347.32 --> 354.32] He's coming on the clouds, kings and kingdoms will bow down. -[357.56 --> 364.82] And every chain will break, his broken hearts declare his praise. -[365.16 --> 368.76] But who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[370.36 --> 375.30] Our God is the lion, the lion of Judah. -[375.30 --> 381.00] He's roaring with power and fighting our battles. -[381.58 --> 385.78] And every knee will bow before you. -[386.72 --> 391.30] Our God is the lamb, the lamb that was slain. -[392.14 --> 397.26] For the sin of the world, his blood breaks the chains. -[397.26 --> 402.70] And every knee will bow before the lion and the lamb. -[403.04 --> 408.68] Oh, every knee will bow before the lion and the lamb. -[408.68 --> 415.18] Oh, every knee will bow before the lion and the lamb. -[416.96 --> 418.20] Oh, every knee will bow before the lion and the lamb. -[418.20 --> 425.38] So open up the gates, make way before the king of kings. -[425.38 --> 431.16] Our God is the lion and the lamb. -[431.16 --> 433.66] Our God is the lion and the lamb. -[433.66 --> 435.66] Our God is the lion and the lamb. -[435.66 --> 436.66] The lamb and the lamb. -[436.66 --> 437.54] He's the lion and the lamb. -[437.54 --> 439.04] For the sin of the king. -[439.04 --> 439.44] Our God is the lion and the lamb. -[439.44 --> 439.64] For the sin of the Lord, his blood breaks the chains. -[439.64 --> 440.64] And every knee will bow before the lion and the lamb. -[440.64 --> 441.66] And every knee will bow before the lion and the lamb. -[441.66 --> 446.18] God is the Lion, the Lion of Judah. -[446.18 --> 451.86] He's roaring with power and fighting our battles. -[452.46 --> 456.66] And every knee will bow before Him. -[457.66 --> 465.38] Our God is the Lamb, the Lamb that was slain for the sin of the world. -[465.38 --> 468.20] His blood breaks the chains. -[468.20 --> 473.62] In every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb. -[473.86 --> 480.58] Oh, every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb. -[489.92 --> 494.24] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[495.38 --> 499.72] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[500.76 --> 505.14] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[506.28 --> 510.58] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[511.94 --> 516.06] Oh, who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[517.20 --> 521.52] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[521.52 --> 527.00] Oh, who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[528.56 --> 531.34] Who can stop the Lord? -[533.90 --> 539.02] Our God is the lion, the lion of Judah -[539.02 --> 544.72] He's roaring with power and fighting the battles -[544.72 --> 549.46] Every knee will bow before you -[549.46 --> 555.52] Our God is the lamb, the lamb that was slain -[555.52 --> 560.94] For the sin of the world, His blood breaks the chains -[560.94 --> 566.38] Every knee will bow before the lion and the lamb -[566.38 --> 573.48] Every knee will bow before the lion and the lamb -[573.48 --> 583.48] Oh, and every knee will bow before the lion and the lamb -[583.48 --> 593.48] Oh, every knee will bow before the lion and the lamb -[593.48 --> 618.18] I've been walking through this life -[618.18 --> 623.64] Feeling empty on the inside -[623.64 --> 628.08] Just when I thought my hope had died -[628.08 --> 634.18] You were there to bring me back to life -[634.80 --> 637.92] You, you wake my love -[637.92 --> 640.34] You renew my strength -[640.34 --> 642.56] You restore my heart -[642.56 --> 647.72] Good morning -[647.72 --> 654.48] Welcome to worship on this March break Sunday -[654.48 --> 657.88] For those of you who are a week into March break -[657.88 --> 658.96] I hope that's going well -[658.96 --> 661.32] For those of you who are just starting March break -[661.32 --> 665.00] Congratulations on the beginning of this two-week break -[665.00 --> 668.18] We're excited to gather for worship this morning -[668.18 --> 669.80] If you're visiting with us -[669.80 --> 672.04] We are particularly excited that you're here -[672.04 --> 673.48] We'd love to connect with you -[673.48 --> 676.86] In your seats are these connect cards -[676.86 --> 679.34] I encourage you to fill one of those out -[679.34 --> 682.82] Or you can scan the QR code and fill it out that way -[682.82 --> 684.90] And we'll reach out and touch base with you -[684.90 --> 687.40] I should also say my name is Chris -[687.40 --> 689.18] I'm one of the pastors here -[689.18 --> 694.52] And it's my privilege to lead in our worship together this morning -[694.52 --> 698.50] Before we begin, just a couple of announcements -[698.50 --> 703.36] First of all, I wanted to just say that the Mexico team that we have sent down -[703.36 --> 704.60] They have arrived safely -[704.60 --> 708.46] And are worshiping today in a couple places -[708.46 --> 710.72] In Rosarito and in Tijuana -[710.72 --> 714.48] I texted Brandon last night at around 7 -[714.48 --> 717.38] And I said, I assume everyone made it in safely -[717.38 --> 719.40] And he's like, well, we're not back at the base yet -[719.40 --> 721.26] Because everybody wanted tacos first -[721.26 --> 724.72] So they spent the evening getting tacos -[724.72 --> 725.82] And getting situated -[725.82 --> 728.80] But they did make it back to the base -[728.80 --> 730.08] And are settled in for today -[730.08 --> 735.08] As well, this evening is a young adult potluck -[735.08 --> 737.68] And so if you are interested in that -[737.68 --> 739.66] There's details on Instagram -[739.66 --> 741.34] And Josh might be somewhere -[741.34 --> 743.22] He can give you those details too -[743.22 --> 745.86] That's this evening here at church -[745.86 --> 747.48] Here at church -[747.48 --> 752.24] And you can come and share a meal together for that -[752.24 --> 754.94] Otherwise, I think that's it for our announcements -[754.94 --> 757.50] So I'm going to invite you to stand where you are -[757.50 --> 760.32] As we come into the presence of God together -[760.32 --> 769.16] God gathers us up in worship -[769.16 --> 773.38] And he meets us here in special and unique ways -[773.38 --> 776.90] And we mark that by receiving his greeting -[776.90 --> 779.60] Receive the greeting of our good God -[779.60 --> 784.26] Grace, mercy, and peace to you -[784.26 --> 785.82] From God our Father -[785.82 --> 788.80] From the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior -[788.80 --> 792.04] Through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit -[792.04 --> 793.76] Amen -[793.76 --> 798.54] I'm going to invite you to turn to those with whom you are worshiping -[798.54 --> 800.20] Welcoming them in the name of Jesus -[800.20 --> 801.98] Passing the peace of Christ -[801.98 --> 822.46] I know -[822.46 --> 834.52] Good morning -[834.52 --> 838.18] As our call to worship this morning -[838.18 --> 840.58] We'd like to just take a moment -[840.58 --> 842.56] To give a little introduction to -[842.56 --> 843.98] Our first song -[843.98 --> 845.86] Behold Our God -[845.86 --> 847.84] It's not new -[847.84 --> 849.36] And we have sung it before -[849.36 --> 850.94] But it's such a powerful song -[850.94 --> 853.72] It's a song of adoration -[853.72 --> 855.18] For the risen King -[855.18 --> 857.46] Which draws from Isaiah 40 -[857.46 --> 860.28] It's a passage in which the prophet Isaiah -[860.28 --> 862.52] Gives comfort to God's people -[862.52 --> 866.08] By focusing on the overwhelming power -[866.08 --> 868.10] And the glory of God -[868.10 --> 870.84] Here's what Isaiah says in chapter 40 -[870.84 --> 875.02] Who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand -[875.02 --> 878.22] Or with the breadth of his hand marked off the heavens -[878.22 --> 882.62] Who has held the dust of the earth in a basket -[882.62 --> 884.68] Or weighed the mountains on the scales -[884.68 --> 886.28] And the hills in a balance -[886.28 --> 889.92] As I was preparing the worship this past week -[889.92 --> 892.84] This song Behold Our God -[892.84 --> 894.18] Came to my mind -[894.18 --> 896.10] I was struck this week -[896.10 --> 898.18] By all that's going on -[898.18 --> 900.34] In our world these days -[900.34 --> 903.40] And also in our own congregation here -[903.40 --> 906.50] Wars and hunger globally for sure -[906.50 --> 908.76] But here in our own lives -[908.76 --> 912.76] Within our Emmanuel Church community -[912.76 --> 916.86] We have or we may be feeling overwhelmed -[916.86 --> 919.22] Or stressed or grieving -[919.22 --> 922.08] We are experiencing high inflation -[922.08 --> 926.76] Some of us are having to deal with expensive mortgages or rents -[927.76 --> 929.42] Some are dealing with addictions -[929.42 --> 932.80] Or illness and even death in the family -[932.80 --> 935.60] Sometimes we need to be reminded -[935.60 --> 938.26] Just of how powerful and almighty -[938.26 --> 940.30] And in control of things God is -[940.30 --> 942.62] But as much as we need to hear -[942.62 --> 945.68] How great and mighty our God is -[945.68 --> 947.44] We might even need something more -[947.44 --> 949.30] And I needed something more -[949.30 --> 950.70] And there it is -[950.70 --> 952.54] It's in verse 11 of the same chapter -[952.54 --> 954.80] It says he tends his flocks -[954.80 --> 955.96] That's us -[955.96 --> 957.26] That's you and that's me -[957.26 --> 958.58] Like a shepherd -[958.58 --> 961.40] He gathers the lambs in his arms -[961.40 --> 964.10] And he carries them close to his heart -[964.10 --> 966.34] I needed to hear that -[966.34 --> 969.64] I needed to hear just how much -[969.64 --> 972.34] The great creator of everything good -[972.34 --> 974.96] Our almighty and all powerful God -[974.96 --> 976.36] Loves us -[976.36 --> 979.22] And how deeply he cares for each one of us -[979.22 --> 981.80] Like a shepherd who cares so deeply -[981.80 --> 983.18] For each of his lambs -[983.18 --> 985.98] That he suffered and gave up his own life -[985.98 --> 986.70] To save them -[986.70 --> 988.16] To save us -[988.16 --> 990.72] May we find incredible comfort in -[990.72 --> 992.00] And peace in that -[992.00 --> 994.20] Let's adorn him together this morning -[994.20 --> 994.82] As we sing -[994.82 --> 996.14] Behold our God -[996.14 --> 1025.12] Who has held the oceans in his hands -[1025.12 --> 1030.60] Who has numbered every grain of sand -[1030.60 --> 1033.12] Kings and nations -[1033.12 --> 1036.38] Tremble at his voice -[1036.38 --> 1042.12] All creation rises to rejoice -[1042.12 --> 1047.12] Behold our God -[1047.74 --> 1050.12] Seated on his throne -[1050.12 --> 1054.12] Come let us adore him -[1054.12 --> 1058.12] Behold our King -[1058.12 --> 1061.12] Nothing can compare -[1061.12 --> 1064.12] Come let us adore him -[1064.12 --> 1070.12] Who has given counsel to the Lord -[1070.12 --> 1078.12] Who can question any of his words -[1078.12 --> 1082.12] Who can teach the one who knows -[1082.12 --> 1085.12] Who can question any of his words -[1085.12 --> 1086.12] Who can teach the one who knows -[1086.12 --> 1089.12] Who can question any of his words -[1089.12 --> 1091.12] Who can teach the one who knows -[1091.12 --> 1093.12] Who can teach the one who knows -[1093.12 --> 1095.12] Who can teach the one who knows all things -[1095.12 --> 1096.12] Who can fathom all his wondrous deeds -[1096.12 --> 1100.12] Who can fathom all his wondrous deeds -[1100.12 --> 1107.12] Behold our God -[1107.12 --> 1108.12] Behold our God -[1108.12 --> 1110.12] Seated on his throne -[1110.12 --> 1111.12] Come let us adore him -[1111.12 --> 1114.12] Come let us adore him -[1114.12 --> 1119.12] Behold our King -[1119.12 --> 1121.12] Nothing can compare -[1121.12 --> 1126.12] Come let us adore him -[1126.12 --> 1132.12] Who has felt the nails upon his hands -[1132.12 --> 1138.12] Bearing all the gift of sinful man -[1138.12 --> 1140.12] God eternal -[1140.12 --> 1144.78] He has felt the nails upon his hands, -[1145.20 --> 1150.52] Bearing all the gift of sinful man. -[1151.02 --> 1156.52] God eternal, humble to the grave, -[1156.92 --> 1162.12] Jesus, Savior, risen now to reign. -[1162.12 --> 1171.24] Behold our God seated on his throne, -[1171.24 --> 1175.28] Come let us adore him. -[1175.48 --> 1182.34] Behold our King, nothing can compare, -[1183.40 --> 1190.18] Come let us adore him. -[1190.18 --> 1191.46] Thank you. -[1192.12 --> 1194.20] You will reign forever. -[1196.92 --> 1199.96] You will reign forever. -[1199.96 --> 1202.50] Let your glory fill the earth. -[1202.82 --> 1205.48] You will reign forever. -[1208.76 --> 1211.90] You will reign forever. -[1214.40 --> 1221.88] Behold our God seated on his throne, -[1221.88 --> 1223.96] Come let us adore him. -[1223.96 --> 1226.00] Come let us adore him. -[1226.00 --> 1233.84] Behold our King, nothing can compare, -[1233.84 --> 1235.84] Come let us adore him. -[1235.84 --> 1237.92] Come let us adore him. -[1237.92 --> 1245.76] Behold our King, nothing can compare, -[1245.76 --> 1249.92] Come let us adore him. -[1249.92 --> 1251.92] Come let us adore him. -[1251.92 --> 1252.92] Come let us adore him. -[1252.92 --> 1258.46] Come let us adore him. -[1258.46 --> 1266.62] Come let us adore Him -[1266.62 --> 1290.70] I see the King of Glory -[1290.70 --> 1296.58] Coming on the clouds with fire -[1296.58 --> 1299.58] The whole earth shakes -[1299.58 --> 1303.78] The whole earth shakes -[1303.78 --> 1308.36] I see His love and mercy -[1308.36 --> 1314.24] Washing over all our sin -[1314.24 --> 1317.20] The people sing -[1317.20 --> 1321.12] The people sing -[1321.12 --> 1323.46] Hosanna -[1323.46 --> 1326.34] Hosanna -[1326.34 --> 1331.34] Hosanna in the highest -[1331.34 --> 1335.10] Hosanna -[1335.10 --> 1337.34] Hosanna -[1337.34 --> 1343.34] Hosanna in the highest -[1343.34 --> 1351.96] I see a generation -[1351.96 --> 1357.34] Rising up to take their place -[1357.34 --> 1360.34] With selfless faith -[1360.34 --> 1364.34] With selfless faith -[1364.34 --> 1369.34] I see a new revival -[1369.34 --> 1371.34] I see a new revival -[1371.34 --> 1375.28] Stirring as we pray and seek -[1375.28 --> 1378.34] We're on our knees -[1378.34 --> 1381.34] We're on our knees -[1381.34 --> 1383.34] Hosanna -[1383.34 --> 1385.34] Hosanna -[1385.34 --> 1391.22] Hosanna -[1391.22 --> 1392.34] Hosanna -[1392.34 --> 1393.62] Hosanna -[1393.62 --> 1394.34] Hosanna -[1394.34 --> 1395.34] Hosanna -[1395.34 --> 1396.34] Hosanna -[1396.34 --> 1402.34] Hosanna -[1402.34 --> 1406.34] Hosanna in the highest -[1406.34 --> 1415.94] Open up my eyes to the things unseen. -[1417.28 --> 1423.84] Show me how to love like you have loved me. -[1428.10 --> 1432.84] Break my heart for what breaks yours. -[1432.84 --> 1438.84] Everything I am for your kingdom's cause. -[1439.56 --> 1445.32] As I walk from earth into eternity. -[1450.66 --> 1459.84] Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest. -[1459.84 --> 1471.76] Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest. -[1471.76 --> 1482.76] Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest. -[1482.76 --> 1494.76] Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest. -[1494.76 --> 1500.76] Hosanna in the highest. -[1500.76 --> 1503.76] Hosanna in the highest. -[1504.48 --> 1505.62] Please be seated. -[1513.08 --> 1516.40] For a time of confession and assurance, let's pray. -[1516.40 --> 1528.22] Gracious and merciful God, we come all here knowing that we are sinners. -[1529.40 --> 1534.24] We know that our hearts are not always pure and our deeds are not always honorable. -[1534.24 --> 1536.70] We have strayed, Lord. -[1537.70 --> 1542.36] We have not always put you first in our lives or treated others as we should. -[1545.30 --> 1549.54] As we come to you now, Lord, each in our own hearts, -[1551.02 --> 1557.16] we come to you in a few moments of personal, silent prayer and confession. -[1557.16 --> 1566.16] This is the manifest is the Stockget story. -[1566.16 --> 1569.08] To be honest, we come to you at Champion of the highest. -[1569.08 --> 1574.50] And for your guest, we go to come to you and your family. -[1574.50 --> 1575.18] Thanks for listening to that. -[1575.34 --> 1576.84] To be honest, Father, whoa! -[1576.90 --> 1578.16] lays обont Șied, holy dla nas reposição. -[1578.16 --> 1579.40] Doan'teleri vencer Russian? -[1579.42 --> 1580.32] Doanye��, Ayol? -[1580.32 --> 1581.50] Thank you. -[1581.50 --> 1582.42] So what do you think it ought to be? -[1582.42 --> 1583.12] Yes? -[1583.22 --> 1583.26] Doanye. -[1583.26 --> 1583.32] Doanye. -[1583.48 --> 1584.82] If you know who you're doing, -[1584.82 --> 1585.48] or visit Johnionarmarcom, -[1585.48 --> 1586.46] information about the highest. -[1586.46 --> 1613.36] Forgive us, Lord. -[1613.36 --> 1617.86] Holy Spirit, refresh our souls as we pray. -[1618.48 --> 1621.00] In Jesus' name, amen. -[1624.38 --> 1627.26] Now here is the good news. -[1628.46 --> 1632.66] The assurance of God's grace is declared in the name of Jesus Christ. -[1633.92 --> 1639.82] We can accept God's forgiveness confident in all dying to sin. -[1639.82 --> 1643.72] Christ raises us to new life. -[1644.88 --> 1646.04] Christ died for us. -[1646.56 --> 1647.84] Christ rose for us. -[1648.58 --> 1650.84] Christ reigns in power for us. -[1651.92 --> 1654.48] Anyone who is in Christ is a new creation. -[1655.48 --> 1656.56] The old life is gone. -[1657.38 --> 1658.98] A new life has begun. -[1659.80 --> 1662.00] Let's sing of God's amazing love together. -[1662.66 --> 1663.16] Please rise. -[1663.78 --> 1664.00] Begin. -[1664.00 --> 1664.12] Begin. -[1664.12 --> 1665.12] Begin. -[1665.12 --> 1666.12] Begin. -[1666.12 --> 1667.12] Begin. -[1667.12 --> 1668.12] Begin. -[1668.12 --> 1669.12] Begin. -[1669.12 --> 1670.12] Begin. -[1670.12 --> 1671.12] Begin. -[1671.12 --> 1673.12] Begin. -[1673.12 --> 1674.12] 乾. -[1674.12 --> 1679.12] ulty -[1679.12 --> 1679.96] longitud -[1680.02 --> 1680.06] Flora -[1680.12 --> 1681.80] conjered -[1681.88 --> 1688.08] 決 -[1688.20 --> 1689.26] ni, -[1689.26 --> 1691.48] permission -[1691.48 --> 1692.24] COVID-19 -[1692.24 --> 1693.32] ails -[1693.32 --> 1696.06] Because you were forsaken -[1696.06 --> 1699.14] I'm accepted -[1699.14 --> 1702.44] You were condemned -[1702.44 --> 1706.48] I'm alive and well -[1706.48 --> 1709.34] Your spirit is within me -[1709.34 --> 1714.06] Because you died and rose again -[1714.06 --> 1718.40] I'm forgiven -[1718.40 --> 1721.80] Because you were forsaken -[1721.80 --> 1724.90] I'm accepted -[1724.90 --> 1728.02] You were condemned -[1728.02 --> 1732.16] I'm alive and well -[1732.16 --> 1735.06] Your spirit is within me -[1735.06 --> 1740.96] Because you died and rose again -[1740.96 --> 1744.90] Amazing love -[1744.90 --> 1748.02] How can it be -[1748.02 --> 1754.12] That you, my King, would die for me -[1754.12 --> 1760.38] Amazing love, I know it's true -[1760.38 --> 1765.12] And it's my joy to honor you -[1765.12 --> 1771.22] In all I do, I honor you -[1771.22 --> 1775.98] I'm forgiven -[1775.98 --> 1779.28] Because you were forsaken -[1779.28 --> 1782.44] I've accepted -[1782.44 --> 1785.34] You were condemned -[1785.34 --> 1788.44] I'm alive and well -[1788.44 --> 1789.44] I'm alive and well -[1789.44 --> 1792.66] Your spirit is within me -[1792.66 --> 1797.70] Because you died and rose again -[1797.70 --> 1801.44] Amazing love -[1801.44 --> 1805.44] How, how can it be -[1805.44 --> 1811.54] That you, my King, would die for me -[1811.54 --> 1818.14] Amazing love, I know it's true -[1818.14 --> 1823.24] And it's my joy to honor you -[1823.24 --> 1826.24] In all I do -[1826.24 --> 1830.24] I honor you -[1830.24 --> 1836.24] You are my King -[1836.24 --> 1842.14] You are my King -[1842.14 --> 1849.24] Jesus, you are my King -[1849.24 --> 1855.24] Jesus, you are my King -[1855.24 --> 1863.24] Amazing love, how can it be -[1863.24 --> 1868.34] That you, my King, would die for me -[1868.34 --> 1875.34] Amazing love, how I know it's true -[1875.34 --> 1880.34] And it's my joy to honor you -[1880.34 --> 1887.34] In all I do, I honor you -[1887.34 --> 1900.44] You are my King -[1900.44 --> 1928.84] The Lord is gracious and compassionate -[1928.84 --> 1938.04] So to anger and rich in love -[1938.04 --> 1942.04] The Lord is gracious and compassionate -[1942.04 --> 1950.94] So to anger and rich in love -[1950.94 --> 1956.04] And the Lord is good to all -[1956.04 --> 1958.54] He has compassion -[1958.54 --> 1964.50] And all that He has made -[1964.50 --> 1969.94] As far as the east is from the west -[1969.94 --> 1972.54] That's how far -[1972.54 --> 1977.94] He has removed our transgressions from us -[1977.94 --> 1983.14] As far as the east is from the west -[1983.14 --> 1985.14] That's how far -[1985.14 --> 1991.14] He has removed our transgressions from us -[1991.14 --> 2003.34] Praise the Lord -[2003.34 --> 2004.84] Praise the Lord -[2004.84 --> 2008.84] Praise the Lord -[2008.84 --> 2012.34] O my soul -[2012.34 --> 2015.34] Praise the Lord -[2015.34 --> 2021.40] The Lord is gracious and compassionate -[2021.40 --> 2030.56] Slow to anger and rich in love -[2030.56 --> 2034.34] The Lord is gracious and compassionate -[2034.34 --> 2043.40] Slow to anger and rich in love -[2043.40 --> 2048.90] And the Lord is good to all -[2048.90 --> 2056.62] He has compassion and all that He has made -[2056.62 --> 2061.96] As far as the east is from the west -[2061.96 --> 2069.36] That's how far He has removed our transgressions from us -[2069.36 --> 2074.80] As far as the east is from the west -[2074.80 --> 2081.80] That's how far He has removed our transgressions from us -[2082.34 --> 2089.80] Praise the Lord, oh my soul -[2089.80 --> 2093.80] Praise the Lord -[2093.80 --> 2099.30] Praise the Lord -[2099.30 --> 2100.30] Praise the Lord -[2100.30 --> 2103.30] Oh my soul -[2103.30 --> 2107.30] Praise the Lord -[2107.30 --> 2113.30] Praise the Lord -[2113.30 --> 2120.30] Praise the Lord -[2120.30 --> 2123.30] Praise the Lord -[2123.30 --> 2125.30] Praise the Lord -[2125.30 --> 2126.30] Praise the Lord -[2126.30 --> 2126.80] Praise the Lord -[2126.80 --> 2128.30] Praise the Lord -[2128.30 --> 2158.28] Thank you. -[2158.30 --> 2162.92] Good morning. -[2163.86 --> 2165.08] My name is Clem. -[2165.16 --> 2166.54] I'm one of the deacons here at Emanuel. -[2167.88 --> 2172.18] The first offering this morning is for the ministry and missions of Emanuel, -[2172.84 --> 2178.16] and the second one is refugee sponsorship fund for the special offering. -[2179.32 --> 2182.72] The special offering next week is for Life Water Canada, -[2182.72 --> 2190.04] and for every dollar spent is fresh water for a child for a year. -[2190.74 --> 2197.18] So now I'd like to invite Peter to come up and say something about the refugee fund. -[2198.66 --> 2200.42] Yes, thank you, Clem. -[2200.42 --> 2206.74] I'd like to draw the congregation's attention this morning to the refugee sponsorship fund. -[2207.54 --> 2212.38] I was really touched this morning with when Harvey spoke about Behold Your God, -[2212.74 --> 2217.58] and as he referenced our call to worship, he mentioned how, you know, -[2217.62 --> 2220.80] there's a lot of problems and a lot of issues in the world, -[2220.80 --> 2228.04] in the world and also in our local community and indeed in our church family here. -[2229.14 --> 2234.24] And we just sang, the Lord is gracious and compassionate. -[2234.24 --> 2239.84] And I was thinking, man, he is gracious and compassionate, -[2240.16 --> 2246.08] and he allows us to walk with him as we develop more fully into who our God is, -[2246.20 --> 2251.48] how mighty he is, and what a wonderful Savior Jesus Christ is for us, our risen Lord, -[2251.94 --> 2254.68] that we can participate in showing that compassion. -[2255.30 --> 2258.64] And at this church, we have a refugee sponsorship committee, -[2259.28 --> 2260.74] and I'm chair of that committee, -[2260.74 --> 2263.94] and we have about eight members in our congregation that are involved, -[2264.10 --> 2266.70] including Clem, who represents the deacons. -[2267.60 --> 2271.12] So we have, we work with World Renew, -[2271.44 --> 2275.08] and we're currently sponsoring a family who's located in Lebanon, -[2275.80 --> 2278.76] a mom and a dad and two children. -[2279.66 --> 2283.24] And the application process has been filed. -[2283.74 --> 2286.90] It's been accepted and gone through World Renew. -[2287.36 --> 2289.54] Now the government has to look at it. -[2289.54 --> 2293.32] And once we have, the government has approved it, -[2293.40 --> 2296.40] we will obviously introduce that to the congregation. -[2297.46 --> 2300.74] At this point, this morning, we're asking you to give an offering. -[2301.44 --> 2302.72] Now the family's not here. -[2303.10 --> 2307.90] If you've been reading, you know it's become a long and arduous journey -[2307.90 --> 2311.02] for people who are refugees to come into this country. -[2311.46 --> 2312.74] It could be up to two years. -[2312.86 --> 2314.70] But we need to fill our bank account. -[2314.70 --> 2317.26] We currently have about $12,000 there, -[2317.42 --> 2320.06] and we'd like to keep building it up because it'll cost, -[2320.18 --> 2321.76] by one time the family is here, -[2322.36 --> 2327.04] the cost will be around about $40,000 to sponsor a family for a year. -[2327.70 --> 2329.56] May God bless you as you give. -[2329.94 --> 2331.04] Have a wonderful Sunday. -[2331.04 --> 2361.02] May God bless you as you give. -[2361.02 --> 2391.00] May God bless you as you give. -[2391.02 --> 2398.64] May God bless you as you come into this -[2398.64 --> 2399.76] Step is... -[2399.76 --> 2400.68] May God bless you as you give. -[2400.92 --> 2402.84] May God bless you as you give. -[2402.96 --> 2404.90] May God bless you as you give. -[2405.06 --> 2407.38] May God bless you as you give. -[2407.54 --> 2409.96] May God bless you as you give. -[2409.96 --> 2411.80] May God bless you as you give, -[2411.80 --> 2412.30] May God bless you as you give as you give. -[2412.30 --> 2413.24] May God bless you as you give. -[2413.24 --> 2414.52] May God bless you as you give. -[2414.52 --> 2417.02] May God bless you as you give, -[2417.02 --> 2417.82] May God bless you as you give. -[2417.88 --> 2418.48] May God bless you as you give. -[2418.48 --> 2418.84] May God bless you as you give. -[2418.84 --> 2418.96] May God bless you as you give. -[2418.96 --> 2428.40] So put your hope in God alone -[2428.40 --> 2433.26] Take courage in his power to save -[2433.26 --> 2438.14] Completely and forever won -[2438.14 --> 2444.04] By Christ emerging from the grave -[2444.04 --> 2446.54] I will wait for you -[2446.54 --> 2449.00] I will wait for you -[2449.00 --> 2452.78] On your word I will rely -[2452.78 --> 2456.46] I will wait for you -[2456.46 --> 2458.94] Surely wait for you -[2458.94 --> 2463.34] Till my soul is satisfied -[2463.34 --> 2474.94] His steadfast love has made a way -[2474.94 --> 2480.90] And God himself has paid the price -[2480.90 --> 2485.02] That all who trust in him today -[2485.02 --> 2489.40] Find healing in his sacrifice -[2489.40 --> 2492.86] I will wait for you -[2492.86 --> 2495.36] I will wait for you -[2495.36 --> 2499.48] Through the storm and through the night -[2499.48 --> 2502.86] I will wait for you -[2502.86 --> 2505.36] Surely wait for you -[2505.36 --> 2509.36] For your love is my delight -[2509.36 --> 2511.32] I will wait for you -[2511.32 --> 2513.32] I will wait for you -[2513.32 --> 2515.32] I will wait for you -[2515.32 --> 2515.82] I will wait for you -[2515.82 --> 2519.44] In your word I will rely -[2519.44 --> 2522.82] I will wait for you -[2522.82 --> 2525.32] Surely wait for you -[2525.32 --> 2529.32] Till my soul is satisfied -[2529.32 --> 2531.28] I will wait for you -[2531.28 --> 2533.28] I will wait for you -[2533.28 --> 2535.28] I will wait for you -[2535.28 --> 2547.20] All right -[2547.20 --> 2549.32] Can we have the kids -[2549.32 --> 2553.22] Age three to grade four -[2553.22 --> 2555.90] Come on up -[2555.90 --> 2558.16] This is for children's worship time -[2558.16 --> 2558.88] And so parents -[2558.88 --> 2560.96] If you are visiting with us -[2560.96 --> 2562.20] And you have kids in that group -[2562.20 --> 2563.70] They can come up to the front -[2563.70 --> 2565.28] Or you can leave with them -[2565.28 --> 2566.58] Follow the crowd -[2566.58 --> 2568.12] And get them checked in -[2568.12 --> 2569.42] Down there -[2569.42 --> 2572.26] All right -[2572.26 --> 2575.66] How many of you guys -[2575.66 --> 2577.20] Are on March break right now? -[2580.74 --> 2582.06] Almost all of you? -[2582.36 --> 2583.46] It's called spring break -[2583.46 --> 2584.52] Spring break, sorry -[2584.52 --> 2586.64] Sorry, is March break -[2586.64 --> 2587.40] An Ontario thing? -[2588.20 --> 2589.98] Ah, okay -[2589.98 --> 2591.60] My apologies Haley -[2591.60 --> 2592.88] Thank you for correcting me -[2592.88 --> 2594.56] Can always count on you -[2594.56 --> 2597.60] Your grandma and grandpa -[2597.60 --> 2598.74] From Ontario are visiting -[2598.74 --> 2600.16] See, they call it March break too -[2600.16 --> 2601.50] So I was right -[2601.50 --> 2607.36] Ladies and gentlemen -[2607.36 --> 2608.48] Haley has a loose tooth -[2608.48 --> 2610.84] All right -[2610.84 --> 2612.20] That's amazing -[2612.20 --> 2612.62] You know what? -[2612.66 --> 2613.76] I'm excited for you guys -[2613.76 --> 2614.80] To get to go to -[2614.80 --> 2615.96] Children's worship time -[2615.96 --> 2618.20] Mrs. Amy and Mr. Dave -[2618.20 --> 2618.92] Have something planned -[2618.92 --> 2619.58] For you over there -[2619.58 --> 2620.14] Do you have something? -[2620.14 --> 2620.40] No -[2620.40 --> 2624.70] You're also on March break? -[2625.36 --> 2626.08] Very good -[2626.08 --> 2628.06] Before you guys go -[2628.06 --> 2629.30] I'd love to pray for you -[2629.30 --> 2630.32] And then we're going to -[2630.32 --> 2631.18] Bless you -[2631.18 --> 2631.80] Okay -[2631.80 --> 2632.58] As you go -[2632.58 --> 2633.94] The way we do the blessing here -[2633.94 --> 2634.78] The kids will stand -[2634.78 --> 2635.42] They will say -[2635.42 --> 2636.80] The Lord be with you -[2636.80 --> 2638.14] And then everyone will respond -[2638.14 --> 2638.70] And say -[2638.70 --> 2640.36] And also with you -[2640.36 --> 2641.24] And so I'm going to invite -[2641.24 --> 2642.34] Everyone to stand -[2642.34 --> 2644.18] We're going to pray -[2644.18 --> 2645.58] And then after we pray -[2645.58 --> 2646.68] We will say the blessing -[2646.68 --> 2647.18] Okay -[2647.18 --> 2649.76] Let's pray together -[2649.76 --> 2651.24] Lord Jesus -[2651.24 --> 2652.66] We pray that you would -[2652.66 --> 2654.40] Go with these children -[2654.40 --> 2655.94] So they can learn -[2655.94 --> 2656.78] About you -[2656.78 --> 2658.08] Go with these children -[2658.08 --> 2660.26] And let them know -[2660.26 --> 2661.62] Your love -[2661.62 --> 2662.76] Let them know -[2662.76 --> 2664.30] Your gospel -[2664.30 --> 2666.46] Bless their worship -[2666.46 --> 2667.66] And ours -[2667.66 --> 2668.64] In Jesus name -[2668.64 --> 2669.12] We pray -[2669.12 --> 2670.34] Amen -[2670.34 --> 2671.38] Alright -[2671.38 --> 2672.60] So let's hold our hands up -[2672.60 --> 2672.98] Everyone -[2672.98 --> 2674.48] And then together -[2674.48 --> 2676.96] The Lord be with you -[2676.96 --> 2679.16] And also with you -[2679.16 --> 2679.74] Amen -[2679.74 --> 2680.08] Amen -[2680.08 --> 2680.80] Amen -[2680.80 --> 2681.30] Amen -[2681.30 --> 2681.80] Amen -[2681.80 --> 2682.80] Amen -[2682.80 --> 2683.80] Amen -[2683.80 --> 2683.88] Amen -[2683.88 --> 2683.98] Amen -[2683.98 --> 2684.00] Amen -[2684.00 --> 2684.02] Amen -[2700.34 --> 2712.84] Amen -[2712.84 --> 2713.36] Amen -[2713.36 --> 2713.92] Amen -[2713.92 --> 2713.94] Hello -[2713.94 --> 2714.90] I'm Eric here -[2714.90 --> 2715.80] An elder at the church -[2715.80 --> 2716.64] And I'd like to lead you -[2716.64 --> 2717.86] In our family church prayer -[2717.86 --> 2721.00] Praise be to God -[2721.00 --> 2722.02] And Father -[2722.02 --> 2723.46] Our Lord Jesus Christ -[2723.46 --> 2724.18] The Father -[2724.18 --> 2725.62] Of compassion -[2725.62 --> 2726.66] And the God -[2726.66 --> 2727.44] Of all comfort -[2727.44 --> 2728.74] Who comforts us -[2728.74 --> 2730.16] In all our troubles -[2730.16 --> 2731.62] So that we can comfort -[2731.62 --> 2732.86] Those in any trouble -[2732.86 --> 2734.32] With the comfort -[2734.32 --> 2735.78] We ourselves receive -[2735.78 --> 2736.38] From God -[2736.38 --> 2738.14] We pray for -[2738.14 --> 2739.48] Comfort and peace -[2739.48 --> 2740.26] For the Skipper -[2740.26 --> 2741.44] And Vanderhoek families -[2741.44 --> 2742.92] As Fran's dad -[2742.92 --> 2743.84] John Vanderhoek -[2743.84 --> 2745.30] Passed away earlier this month -[2745.30 --> 2746.48] Now the families -[2746.48 --> 2747.40] Will have the opportunity -[2747.40 --> 2749.06] To gather later this week -[2749.06 --> 2750.66] For the celebration of life -[2750.66 --> 2752.28] Be with the families -[2752.28 --> 2753.06] And their traveling -[2753.06 --> 2755.08] To and from this celebration -[2755.08 --> 2757.14] We also think of -[2757.14 --> 2758.44] Our Mexico team this week -[2758.44 --> 2758.82] As they -[2758.82 --> 2760.96] Thank you for keeping them safe -[2760.96 --> 2761.66] In their travels -[2761.66 --> 2764.20] Down to Mexico yesterday -[2764.20 --> 2766.78] Now that they are -[2766.78 --> 2767.72] Please continue -[2767.72 --> 2768.82] To calm their hearts -[2768.82 --> 2771.40] May the people praise you -[2771.40 --> 2771.78] God -[2771.78 --> 2772.86] May all the people -[2772.86 --> 2773.48] Praise you -[2773.48 --> 2775.04] Bless the youth -[2775.04 --> 2775.62] And the leaders -[2775.62 --> 2776.70] In the work you have -[2776.70 --> 2777.56] Prepared for them -[2777.56 --> 2778.22] This week -[2778.22 --> 2780.64] And the traveling home -[2780.64 --> 2781.72] Later this week as well -[2781.72 --> 2784.80] We also want to keep others -[2784.80 --> 2786.76] Who are on their spring break -[2786.76 --> 2787.30] At this time -[2787.30 --> 2788.34] Traveling or resting -[2788.34 --> 2789.44] Or enjoying some time -[2789.44 --> 2790.52] Downtime with family -[2790.52 --> 2791.06] And friends -[2791.06 --> 2791.38] Lord -[2791.38 --> 2794.06] We also think of our -[2794.06 --> 2795.84] Aging loved ones -[2795.84 --> 2796.10] Lord -[2796.10 --> 2797.70] Please keep them safe -[2797.70 --> 2798.36] And comfortable -[2798.36 --> 2801.70] Lord we also want to pray -[2801.70 --> 2802.72] Today for -[2802.72 --> 2803.78] Sai Visser -[2803.78 --> 2804.76] As he continues -[2804.76 --> 2805.46] His treatment -[2805.46 --> 2806.34] For lung cancer -[2806.34 --> 2807.68] Keep him comfortable -[2807.68 --> 2809.44] And bring him healing -[2809.44 --> 2810.12] To his body -[2810.12 --> 2813.34] May the Lord bless us -[2813.34 --> 2814.68] And may the Holy Spirit -[2814.68 --> 2815.70] Be presented with -[2815.70 --> 2816.86] Present with us -[2816.86 --> 2818.68] As we worship together today -[2818.68 --> 2819.36] Amen -[2837.68 --> 2846.20] Spend some time together -[2846.20 --> 2848.10] Reading and reflecting -[2848.10 --> 2850.84] On the next section -[2850.84 --> 2853.44] In our Romans series -[2853.44 --> 2856.00] We've been in the book of Romans -[2856.00 --> 2859.46] Looking at how Paul presents -[2859.46 --> 2860.72] To us the gospel -[2860.72 --> 2862.04] From first to last -[2862.04 --> 2863.74] From beginning to end -[2863.74 --> 2865.78] And we have been digging deep -[2865.78 --> 2866.86] And studying there -[2866.86 --> 2869.32] Today we're going to read -[2869.32 --> 2871.00] Romans 5 -[2871.00 --> 2872.00] Verse 12 -[2872.00 --> 2873.58] Through 21 -[2873.58 --> 2875.18] As always -[2875.18 --> 2876.20] It will be on the screen -[2876.20 --> 2876.88] Behind me -[2876.88 --> 2878.18] But I do encourage you -[2878.18 --> 2878.72] To have a Bible -[2878.72 --> 2879.64] In your hands -[2879.64 --> 2880.32] Or on your phone -[2880.32 --> 2881.44] Or device -[2881.44 --> 2883.44] And keep that in front of you -[2883.44 --> 2884.28] As we will be -[2884.28 --> 2886.06] Very intentionally -[2886.06 --> 2887.02] Referring back -[2887.02 --> 2888.14] As we go -[2888.14 --> 2890.20] Let me read -[2890.20 --> 2891.20] Our text -[2891.20 --> 2892.18] For this morning -[2892.18 --> 2893.66] Romans 5 -[2893.66 --> 2894.00] Beginning -[2894.00 --> 2895.36] At verse 12 -[2895.36 --> 2899.78] Therefore -[2899.78 --> 2901.52] Just as sin -[2901.52 --> 2902.48] Entered the world -[2902.48 --> 2903.80] Through one man -[2903.80 --> 2904.76] And death -[2904.76 --> 2905.80] Through sin -[2905.80 --> 2907.28] And in this way -[2907.28 --> 2908.98] Death came to all people -[2908.98 --> 2910.36] Because all sinned -[2910.36 --> 2912.10] To be sure -[2912.10 --> 2913.42] Sin was in the world -[2913.42 --> 2914.90] Before the law was given -[2914.90 --> 2916.86] But sin is not charged -[2916.86 --> 2918.16] Against anyone's account -[2918.16 --> 2919.40] Where there is no law -[2919.40 --> 2920.50] Nevertheless -[2920.50 --> 2921.78] Death reigned -[2921.78 --> 2923.02] From the time of Adam -[2923.02 --> 2924.14] To the time of Moses -[2924.14 --> 2925.16] Even over those -[2925.16 --> 2926.04] Who did not sin -[2926.04 --> 2927.32] By breaking a command -[2927.32 --> 2928.24] As Adam did -[2928.24 --> 2929.76] Who is a pattern -[2929.76 --> 2930.78] Of the one to come -[2930.78 --> 2932.64] But the gift -[2932.64 --> 2933.48] Is not like -[2933.48 --> 2934.26] The trespass -[2934.26 --> 2936.12] For if the many died -[2936.12 --> 2937.02] By the trespass -[2937.02 --> 2937.78] Of the one man -[2937.78 --> 2938.90] How much more -[2938.90 --> 2939.94] Did God's grace -[2939.94 --> 2940.58] And the gift -[2940.58 --> 2941.96] That came by the grace -[2941.96 --> 2943.04] Of the one man -[2943.04 --> 2943.88] Jesus Christ -[2943.88 --> 2945.48] Overflow to the many -[2945.48 --> 2948.36] Nor can the gift -[2948.36 --> 2949.08] Of God -[2949.08 --> 2949.76] Be compared -[2949.76 --> 2950.58] With the result -[2950.58 --> 2951.72] Of one man's sin -[2951.72 --> 2953.16] The judgment -[2953.16 --> 2954.34] Followed one sin -[2954.34 --> 2955.52] And brought condemnation -[2955.52 --> 2956.12] But the gift -[2956.12 --> 2957.50] Followed many trespasses -[2957.50 --> 2958.88] And brought justification -[2958.88 --> 2960.74] For if -[2960.74 --> 2961.84] By the trespass -[2961.84 --> 2962.62] Of one man -[2962.62 --> 2963.40] Death reigned -[2963.40 --> 2964.92] Through that one man -[2964.92 --> 2965.96] How much more -[2965.96 --> 2967.28] Will those who receive -[2967.28 --> 2968.22] God's abundant -[2968.22 --> 2969.28] Provision of grace -[2969.28 --> 2970.52] And the gift -[2970.52 --> 2971.30] Of righteousness -[2971.30 --> 2972.64] Reign in life -[2972.64 --> 2974.42] Through the one man -[2974.42 --> 2975.50] Jesus Christ -[2975.50 --> 2977.72] Consequently -[2977.72 --> 2979.60] Just as one -[2979.60 --> 2980.28] Trespass -[2980.28 --> 2980.96] Resulted in -[2980.96 --> 2981.72] Condemnation -[2981.72 --> 2982.64] For all people -[2982.64 --> 2983.46] So also -[2983.46 --> 2985.06] One righteous act -[2985.06 --> 2985.78] Resulted in -[2985.78 --> 2986.56] Justification -[2986.56 --> 2987.20] And life -[2987.20 --> 2988.28] For all people -[2988.28 --> 2990.12] For just as -[2990.12 --> 2991.34] Through the disobedience -[2991.34 --> 2992.14] Of the one man -[2992.14 --> 2993.08] The many were made -[2993.08 --> 2993.50] Sinners -[2993.50 --> 2994.58] So also -[2994.58 --> 2996.00] Through the obedience -[2996.00 --> 2997.32] Of the one man -[2997.32 --> 2998.70] The many will be made -[2998.70 --> 2999.70] Righteous -[2999.70 --> 3002.78] The law was brought in -[3002.78 --> 3004.28] So that the trespass -[3004.28 --> 3005.28] Might increase -[3005.28 --> 3006.62] But where sin -[3006.62 --> 3007.36] Increased -[3007.36 --> 3009.06] Grace increased -[3009.06 --> 3009.92] All the more -[3009.92 --> 3011.52] So that -[3011.52 --> 3012.50] Just as sin -[3012.50 --> 3013.52] Reigned in death -[3013.52 --> 3014.52] So also -[3014.52 --> 3015.68] Grace might reign -[3015.68 --> 3016.84] Through righteousness -[3016.84 --> 3018.24] To bring eternal life -[3018.24 --> 3020.02] Through Jesus Christ -[3020.02 --> 3021.20] Our Lord -[3021.20 --> 3022.80] This is the word -[3022.80 --> 3023.18] Of the Lord -[3023.18 --> 3031.78] Some of you may -[3031.78 --> 3033.02] Be aware -[3033.02 --> 3035.32] But the Trinity -[3035.32 --> 3036.58] Western University -[3036.58 --> 3038.08] Volleyball teams -[3038.08 --> 3039.00] Are competing -[3039.00 --> 3040.68] In the national -[3040.68 --> 3041.96] Championship tournament -[3041.96 --> 3043.28] The men are in -[3043.28 --> 3043.58] Hamilton -[3043.58 --> 3044.26] And the women -[3044.26 --> 3045.52] Are at UBC -[3045.52 --> 3047.18] Yesterday -[3047.18 --> 3048.62] Malachi -[3048.62 --> 3049.60] My son -[3049.60 --> 3051.14] Who's eight years old -[3051.14 --> 3051.68] And I -[3051.68 --> 3053.28] Watched the men -[3053.28 --> 3055.44] Beat McMaster University -[3055.44 --> 3056.80] In order to advance -[3056.80 --> 3057.80] To the gold medal game -[3057.80 --> 3060.08] It was an awesome -[3060.08 --> 3060.80] Match -[3060.80 --> 3063.26] And relatively -[3063.26 --> 3064.16] Back and forth -[3064.16 --> 3064.94] But in the end -[3064.94 --> 3066.04] Trinity just -[3066.04 --> 3067.68] Outclassed McMaster -[3067.68 --> 3069.48] At one point -[3069.48 --> 3070.02] In the game -[3070.02 --> 3071.76] Malachi -[3071.76 --> 3072.58] Who's only just -[3072.58 --> 3073.20] Learning what -[3073.20 --> 3074.12] Volleyball is like -[3074.12 --> 3075.00] And thinks the sport -[3075.00 --> 3075.50] Is amazing -[3075.50 --> 3076.28] And fast paced -[3076.28 --> 3077.30] As people are -[3077.30 --> 3078.32] Smashing balls -[3078.32 --> 3080.50] At 98.5 miles per hour -[3080.50 --> 3082.00] Malachi turns to me -[3082.00 --> 3082.50] And he goes -[3082.50 --> 3083.24] Dad -[3083.24 --> 3084.26] We're winning -[3084.26 --> 3085.88] And I said -[3085.88 --> 3086.94] Yeah we are -[3086.94 --> 3089.78] And we do that -[3089.78 --> 3090.42] In sports -[3090.42 --> 3091.28] Right -[3091.28 --> 3092.24] Notice Malachi -[3092.24 --> 3093.08] Has never played -[3093.08 --> 3094.26] Volleyball in his life -[3094.26 --> 3095.06] He's never been to -[3095.06 --> 3096.74] Trinity Western University -[3096.74 --> 3097.76] He's definitely not -[3097.76 --> 3098.80] On their volleyball team -[3098.80 --> 3099.52] Maybe one day -[3099.52 --> 3100.08] Who knows -[3100.08 --> 3101.56] But he said -[3101.56 --> 3102.04] We -[3102.04 --> 3103.04] Are winning -[3103.04 --> 3105.18] We do this -[3105.18 --> 3105.94] All over the place -[3105.94 --> 3106.58] In sports -[3106.58 --> 3107.62] I'm going to trigger -[3107.62 --> 3108.24] A few of you -[3108.24 --> 3108.78] Right now -[3108.78 --> 3110.42] Did anybody watch -[3110.42 --> 3111.24] The Leafs win -[3111.24 --> 3113.38] Because we won -[3113.38 --> 3116.74] You know who -[3116.74 --> 3117.36] We won against -[3117.36 --> 3118.06] Ottawa and -[3118.06 --> 3118.30] Eric -[3118.30 --> 3118.62] Who else -[3118.62 --> 3119.24] Did we just beat -[3119.24 --> 3120.94] The Canes -[3120.94 --> 3122.60] Hmm -[3122.60 --> 3125.28] I'll do this one -[3125.28 --> 3125.74] For Kevin -[3125.74 --> 3126.80] Did anybody see -[3126.80 --> 3128.02] Edmonton win -[3128.02 --> 3129.16] Recently -[3129.16 --> 3129.94] Right -[3129.94 --> 3131.34] We won there too -[3131.34 --> 3132.80] You know what -[3132.80 --> 3133.64] I'll even give you this -[3133.64 --> 3135.02] Did anyone see -[3135.02 --> 3135.84] The Canucks win -[3135.84 --> 3137.66] Because we won -[3137.66 --> 3138.30] There too -[3138.30 --> 3140.16] Now that one's -[3140.16 --> 3140.84] More surprising -[3140.84 --> 3141.60] We know that -[3141.60 --> 3143.80] Point is -[3143.80 --> 3144.06] Right -[3144.06 --> 3144.78] When it comes to -[3144.78 --> 3145.46] Sports -[3145.46 --> 3146.52] We -[3146.52 --> 3148.08] Are part of -[3148.08 --> 3148.62] The team -[3148.62 --> 3149.98] There's a -[3149.98 --> 3150.54] Union -[3150.54 --> 3152.24] That exists -[3152.24 --> 3153.76] In our own -[3153.76 --> 3154.28] Minds -[3154.28 --> 3154.60] In our own -[3154.60 --> 3155.18] Imaginations -[3155.18 --> 3155.72] In our own -[3155.72 --> 3156.64] Relationship -[3156.64 --> 3157.68] To it -[3157.68 --> 3159.32] There's this -[3159.32 --> 3160.28] Strange -[3160.28 --> 3160.94] Almost -[3160.94 --> 3162.10] Mystical -[3162.10 --> 3163.68] Connection -[3163.68 --> 3165.16] That makes you -[3165.16 --> 3166.18] Part of -[3166.18 --> 3166.96] Something -[3166.96 --> 3168.88] That you -[3168.88 --> 3169.16] Maybe -[3169.16 --> 3169.74] Have no -[3169.74 --> 3170.72] Reason -[3170.72 --> 3171.18] Or -[3171.18 --> 3171.78] Means -[3171.78 --> 3172.34] Otherwise -[3172.34 --> 3173.28] To be -[3173.28 --> 3173.66] Part of -[3173.66 --> 3176.88] What Paul -[3176.88 --> 3177.48] Does -[3177.48 --> 3178.34] In this -[3178.34 --> 3179.04] Part of -[3179.04 --> 3179.50] Romans -[3179.50 --> 3180.96] Is help -[3180.96 --> 3181.76] Us see -[3181.76 --> 3182.22] How -[3182.22 --> 3183.42] That kind -[3183.42 --> 3183.86] Of -[3183.86 --> 3185.16] Spiritual -[3185.16 --> 3186.40] Union -[3186.40 --> 3187.14] That kind -[3187.14 --> 3187.64] Of -[3187.64 --> 3188.98] Mystical -[3188.98 --> 3189.52] Union -[3189.52 --> 3190.54] Also -[3190.54 --> 3191.94] Applies -[3191.94 --> 3192.88] In -[3192.88 --> 3193.78] Relationship -[3193.78 --> 3194.60] First -[3194.60 --> 3194.78] To -[3194.78 --> 3195.10] Adam -[3195.10 --> 3196.48] And -[3196.48 --> 3196.82] Then -[3196.82 --> 3197.10] By -[3197.10 --> 3197.50] Grace -[3197.50 --> 3197.92] Through -[3197.92 --> 3198.28] Faith -[3198.28 --> 3198.94] To -[3198.94 --> 3199.32] Christ -[3199.32 --> 3201.32] In -[3201.32 --> 3201.56] Fact -[3201.56 --> 3201.94] Verse -[3201.94 --> 3202.42] Twelve -[3202.42 --> 3203.40] Introduces -[3203.40 --> 3204.40] For us -[3204.40 --> 3205.24] A theological -[3205.24 --> 3205.94] Idea -[3205.94 --> 3206.86] That is -[3206.86 --> 3208.18] I'm not -[3208.18 --> 3208.82] Overstating -[3208.82 --> 3209.34] The case -[3209.34 --> 3210.30] Foundational -[3210.30 --> 3211.20] To all -[3211.20 --> 3211.92] Christian -[3211.92 --> 3213.10] Theology -[3213.10 --> 3215.20] Because of -[3215.20 --> 3215.64] The truth -[3215.64 --> 3216.02] That Paul -[3216.02 --> 3216.46] Is building -[3216.46 --> 3216.90] On here -[3216.90 --> 3217.74] We need -[3217.74 --> 3218.24] A savior -[3218.24 --> 3219.80] Because of -[3219.80 --> 3220.16] The truth -[3220.16 --> 3220.54] That Paul -[3220.54 --> 3220.98] Is building -[3220.98 --> 3221.50] On here -[3221.50 --> 3222.28] We have -[3222.28 --> 3222.66] One -[3222.66 --> 3224.44] And without -[3224.44 --> 3225.92] This truth -[3225.92 --> 3226.58] Pulling it -[3226.58 --> 3227.22] All together -[3227.22 --> 3228.40] None of -[3228.40 --> 3228.72] The book -[3228.72 --> 3229.28] Of Romans -[3229.28 --> 3229.64] Makes -[3229.64 --> 3230.34] Any sense -[3230.34 --> 3233.12] So I'd like -[3233.12 --> 3233.52] To look at -[3233.52 --> 3233.96] That a little -[3233.96 --> 3234.26] Bit more -[3234.26 --> 3234.72] Closely -[3234.72 --> 3235.32] And hopefully -[3235.32 --> 3235.88] You'll see -[3235.88 --> 3236.10] It -[3236.10 --> 3237.22] With me -[3237.22 --> 3238.48] So with -[3238.48 --> 3239.02] Your Bibles -[3239.02 --> 3239.52] Open -[3239.52 --> 3239.94] In verse -[3239.94 --> 3240.36] Twelve -[3240.36 --> 3241.64] Paul begins -[3241.64 --> 3243.26] Therefore -[3243.26 --> 3244.46] Just as -[3244.46 --> 3244.84] Sin -[3244.84 --> 3245.42] Entered -[3245.42 --> 3245.92] The world -[3245.92 --> 3246.42] Through -[3246.42 --> 3246.96] One -[3246.96 --> 3247.80] Man -[3247.80 --> 3249.52] Sin -[3249.52 --> 3250.18] Entered -[3250.18 --> 3250.60] The world -[3250.60 --> 3250.98] Through -[3250.98 --> 3251.60] One -[3251.60 --> 3252.08] Man -[3252.08 --> 3252.52] Now first -[3252.52 --> 3252.88] Of all -[3252.88 --> 3253.48] Let's not -[3253.48 --> 3253.76] Get ahead -[3253.76 --> 3254.08] Of ourselves -[3254.08 --> 3254.38] We have -[3254.38 --> 3254.68] To know -[3254.68 --> 3255.38] What sin -[3255.38 --> 3256.18] Is -[3256.18 --> 3258.00] Now back -[3258.00 --> 3258.80] In Romans -[3258.80 --> 3259.46] 1 and you -[3259.46 --> 3259.98] Can see it -[3259.98 --> 3260.26] If you -[3260.26 --> 3260.90] Flip back -[3260.90 --> 3261.50] Particularly -[3261.50 --> 3262.04] Verses -[3262.04 --> 3262.62] 18 to -[3262.62 --> 3263.10] 32 -[3263.10 --> 3264.42] We can -[3264.42 --> 3264.98] See that -[3264.98 --> 3265.92] Sin is -[3265.92 --> 3266.74] At root -[3266.74 --> 3268.42] An exchanging -[3268.42 --> 3269.16] Of the truth -[3269.16 --> 3269.92] Of God -[3269.92 --> 3271.20] For a lie -[3271.20 --> 3272.82] It is a -[3272.82 --> 3273.42] Suppressing -[3273.42 --> 3274.26] Of the truth -[3274.26 --> 3275.04] Of God -[3275.04 --> 3276.22] To serve -[3276.22 --> 3276.76] Or to -[3276.76 --> 3277.50] Hold up -[3277.50 --> 3278.26] Created -[3278.26 --> 3279.06] Things -[3279.06 --> 3280.12] At root -[3280.12 --> 3281.26] Fundamentally -[3281.26 --> 3282.40] All sin -[3282.40 --> 3282.98] Is -[3282.98 --> 3284.22] Idolatry -[3284.22 --> 3285.12] Stemming -[3285.12 --> 3285.66] From the -[3285.66 --> 3286.26] Idea -[3286.26 --> 3287.62] That you -[3287.62 --> 3288.56] Have a -[3288.56 --> 3289.68] Better idea -[3289.68 --> 3290.80] About what -[3290.80 --> 3291.76] Is good -[3291.76 --> 3292.86] Than God -[3292.86 --> 3293.22] Does -[3293.22 --> 3294.52] That you -[3294.52 --> 3294.92] Have a -[3294.92 --> 3295.60] Better idea -[3295.60 --> 3296.12] About what -[3296.12 --> 3296.70] Will fill you -[3296.70 --> 3297.26] With purpose -[3297.26 --> 3297.76] Or meaning -[3297.76 --> 3298.46] Or joy -[3298.46 --> 3299.44] Than God -[3299.44 --> 3299.80] Does -[3299.80 --> 3301.06] And it's -[3301.06 --> 3301.60] Out of -[3301.60 --> 3301.94] This -[3301.94 --> 3303.42] Depraved -[3303.42 --> 3304.02] Mind -[3304.02 --> 3304.42] That's -[3304.42 --> 3304.86] Paul's -[3304.86 --> 3305.24] Phrase -[3305.24 --> 3305.82] In chapter -[3305.82 --> 3306.08] 1 -[3306.08 --> 3306.22] Verse -[3306.22 --> 3306.64] 28 -[3306.64 --> 3307.58] It's -[3307.58 --> 3307.96] Out of -[3307.96 --> 3308.18] This -[3308.18 --> 3308.84] Depraved -[3308.84 --> 3309.40] Mind -[3309.40 --> 3309.68] That -[3309.68 --> 3310.52] The -[3310.52 --> 3311.40] Specific -[3311.40 --> 3312.42] Lists -[3312.42 --> 3312.98] That we -[3312.98 --> 3313.36] Can read -[3313.36 --> 3313.72] Through the -[3313.72 --> 3314.12] Bible -[3314.12 --> 3314.96] Specific -[3314.96 --> 3315.56] Acts -[3315.56 --> 3316.90] Of sinning -[3316.90 --> 3317.84] Comes -[3317.84 --> 3319.56] And this -[3319.56 --> 3320.20] Compounds -[3320.20 --> 3320.50] And we -[3320.50 --> 3320.86] See it -[3320.86 --> 3321.46] Compounding -[3321.46 --> 3322.86] In our -[3322.86 --> 3323.20] Hearts -[3323.20 --> 3323.54] And in -[3323.54 --> 3323.68] Our -[3323.68 --> 3324.02] Lives -[3324.02 --> 3324.28] And it -[3324.28 --> 3324.86] Builds -[3324.86 --> 3325.54] In Romans -[3325.54 --> 3326.44] Chapter 3 -[3326.44 --> 3327.68] Where we -[3327.68 --> 3329.20] See that -[3329.20 --> 3329.56] The sort -[3329.56 --> 3330.36] Of culmination -[3330.36 --> 3330.72] Of the -[3330.72 --> 3331.02] Case -[3331.02 --> 3331.48] Against -[3331.48 --> 3331.92] Us -[3331.92 --> 3333.00] Chapter 3 -[3333.00 --> 3333.36] Says -[3333.36 --> 3334.00] There is -[3334.00 --> 3335.04] No one -[3335.04 --> 3336.04] Righteous -[3336.04 --> 3337.72] Not even -[3337.72 --> 3338.08] One -[3338.08 --> 3339.56] There is -[3339.56 --> 3340.06] No one -[3340.06 --> 3340.62] Who seeks -[3340.62 --> 3341.10] God -[3341.10 --> 3341.88] That all -[3341.88 --> 3342.32] Have turned -[3342.32 --> 3342.74] Away -[3342.74 --> 3343.28] There's -[3343.28 --> 3343.82] No one -[3343.82 --> 3344.28] Who does -[3344.28 --> 3344.66] Good -[3344.66 --> 3345.16] Not -[3345.16 --> 3345.86] Even -[3345.86 --> 3346.72] One -[3346.72 --> 3348.54] That's -[3348.54 --> 3349.00] The first -[3349.00 --> 3349.48] Truth -[3349.48 --> 3350.02] Of sin -[3350.02 --> 3350.36] That is -[3350.36 --> 3351.46] Foundational -[3351.46 --> 3352.04] To our -[3352.04 --> 3352.82] Understanding -[3352.82 --> 3353.10] Here -[3353.10 --> 3354.04] And then -[3354.04 --> 3354.74] Paul adds -[3354.74 --> 3355.06] And we're -[3355.06 --> 3355.42] Back in -[3355.42 --> 3355.90] Verse 12 -[3355.90 --> 3356.24] Of our -[3356.24 --> 3356.56] Text -[3356.56 --> 3357.70] Sin entered -[3357.70 --> 3358.20] The world -[3358.20 --> 3358.74] Through -[3358.74 --> 3359.64] One -[3359.64 --> 3360.68] Man -[3360.68 --> 3362.56] Now keep -[3362.56 --> 3362.90] Reading -[3362.90 --> 3363.40] And you -[3363.40 --> 3363.98] Find out -[3363.98 --> 3364.32] That that -[3364.32 --> 3365.12] One man -[3365.12 --> 3366.06] That first -[3366.06 --> 3366.64] Head -[3366.64 --> 3368.12] Is Adam -[3368.12 --> 3369.46] Right -[3369.46 --> 3369.96] Adam -[3369.96 --> 3370.58] In the -[3370.58 --> 3370.96] Garden -[3370.96 --> 3372.52] The first -[3372.52 --> 3373.98] Man -[3373.98 --> 3374.76] Created -[3374.76 --> 3375.22] And then -[3375.22 --> 3375.60] Eve -[3375.60 --> 3376.30] Along with -[3376.30 --> 3376.62] Him -[3376.62 --> 3377.06] Adam -[3377.06 --> 3377.56] In the -[3377.56 --> 3377.94] Garden -[3377.94 --> 3379.22] Represents -[3379.22 --> 3380.18] All of -[3380.18 --> 3381.00] Humanity -[3381.00 --> 3382.78] Right -[3382.78 --> 3383.04] And in -[3383.04 --> 3383.48] The good -[3383.48 --> 3383.98] So when -[3383.98 --> 3384.56] God told -[3384.56 --> 3384.94] Adam -[3384.94 --> 3385.70] To fill -[3385.70 --> 3386.24] The earth -[3386.24 --> 3387.10] Right -[3387.10 --> 3387.50] When God -[3387.50 --> 3388.00] Told Adam -[3388.00 --> 3388.66] To rule -[3388.66 --> 3389.22] Over the -[3389.22 --> 3389.44] Earth -[3389.44 --> 3389.70] When he -[3389.70 --> 3390.06] Told him -[3390.06 --> 3391.36] To curate -[3391.36 --> 3391.98] And to -[3391.98 --> 3392.58] Create -[3392.58 --> 3392.94] When he -[3392.94 --> 3393.30] Told him -[3393.30 --> 3393.80] To make -[3393.80 --> 3394.20] Art -[3394.20 --> 3394.74] And to -[3394.74 --> 3395.38] Learn -[3395.38 --> 3395.72] When he -[3395.72 --> 3396.30] Told Adam -[3396.30 --> 3397.28] To explore -[3397.28 --> 3397.90] And to -[3397.90 --> 3398.78] Study -[3398.78 --> 3399.90] He told -[3399.90 --> 3400.58] The rest -[3400.58 --> 3401.42] Of humanity -[3401.42 --> 3402.40] Through him -[3402.40 --> 3404.48] Right -[3404.48 --> 3404.98] When Adam -[3404.98 --> 3405.44] Is given -[3405.44 --> 3406.60] That mandate -[3406.60 --> 3407.10] We -[3407.10 --> 3408.22] As the rest -[3408.22 --> 3408.76] Of humanity -[3408.76 --> 3409.52] Are given -[3409.52 --> 3410.18] That mandate -[3410.18 --> 3411.32] But likewise -[3411.32 --> 3412.60] When Adam -[3412.60 --> 3413.60] Rebelled -[3413.60 --> 3415.12] When Adam -[3415.12 --> 3415.96] Was cursed -[3415.96 --> 3417.32] That curse -[3417.32 --> 3417.96] Is also -[3417.96 --> 3418.92] Ours -[3418.92 --> 3420.34] Right -[3420.34 --> 3420.72] All of -[3420.72 --> 3421.22] Humanity -[3421.22 --> 3422.34] According to -[3422.34 --> 3422.80] Paul here -[3422.80 --> 3423.28] In Romans -[3423.28 --> 3423.80] Is not -[3423.80 --> 3424.96] Just like -[3424.96 --> 3425.80] Adam -[3425.80 --> 3427.44] We are -[3427.44 --> 3428.06] In -[3428.06 --> 3429.16] Adam -[3429.16 --> 3430.72] So that -[3430.72 --> 3431.04] When he -[3431.04 --> 3431.60] Sinned -[3431.60 --> 3433.04] We did -[3433.04 --> 3435.34] Now -[3435.34 --> 3436.78] As I -[3436.78 --> 3437.98] Say that -[3437.98 --> 3439.54] I know -[3439.54 --> 3440.24] That -[3440.24 --> 3442.28] Most -[3442.28 --> 3443.22] Of us -[3443.22 --> 3444.64] Especially -[3444.64 --> 3445.42] In the -[3445.42 --> 3445.80] Kind of -[3445.80 --> 3446.28] Modern -[3446.28 --> 3446.96] Western -[3446.96 --> 3447.62] World -[3447.62 --> 3448.36] That we -[3448.36 --> 3448.86] Live in -[3448.86 --> 3449.30] When we -[3449.30 --> 3449.86] Hear this -[3449.86 --> 3450.40] Idea -[3450.40 --> 3452.76] We don't -[3452.76 --> 3453.74] Really -[3453.74 --> 3454.98] Like it -[3454.98 --> 3456.86] In fact -[3456.86 --> 3457.72] Maybe we -[3457.72 --> 3458.30] Don't even -[3458.30 --> 3458.82] Know whether -[3458.82 --> 3459.38] We like it -[3459.38 --> 3459.76] Or not -[3459.76 --> 3460.24] Because we -[3460.24 --> 3460.66] Don't even -[3460.66 --> 3461.66] Understand it -[3461.66 --> 3463.10] It doesn't -[3463.10 --> 3464.08] Make sense -[3464.08 --> 3465.14] In our -[3465.14 --> 3465.62] Frame of -[3465.62 --> 3465.94] Being -[3465.94 --> 3466.80] Because -[3466.80 --> 3469.66] Part of -[3469.66 --> 3470.04] The -[3470.04 --> 3471.76] Social -[3471.76 --> 3472.54] Imaginary -[3472.54 --> 3473.08] Part of -[3473.08 --> 3473.86] The way -[3473.86 --> 3474.24] That we -[3474.24 --> 3474.84] Operate -[3474.84 --> 3475.14] In the -[3475.14 --> 3475.40] World -[3475.40 --> 3475.90] Part of -[3475.90 --> 3477.26] The underlying -[3477.26 --> 3478.56] Assumptions -[3478.56 --> 3479.06] About how -[3479.06 --> 3479.52] The world -[3479.52 --> 3479.84] Works -[3479.84 --> 3480.18] That we -[3480.18 --> 3480.56] Live -[3480.56 --> 3481.18] Out of -[3481.18 --> 3482.32] Part of -[3482.32 --> 3482.50] What -[3482.50 --> 3483.58] The water -[3483.58 --> 3484.08] We swim -[3484.08 --> 3484.32] In -[3484.32 --> 3484.58] Or the -[3484.58 --> 3484.76] Air -[3484.76 --> 3485.06] That we -[3485.06 --> 3485.50] Breathe -[3485.50 --> 3486.42] Part of -[3486.42 --> 3486.72] That is -[3486.72 --> 3487.22] So -[3487.22 --> 3488.86] Comprehensively -[3488.86 --> 3490.42] Individualistic -[3490.42 --> 3490.86] That -[3490.86 --> 3491.62] When I -[3491.62 --> 3491.96] Talk about -[3491.96 --> 3492.40] Somebody -[3492.40 --> 3493.32] Representing -[3493.32 --> 3493.76] Me -[3493.76 --> 3494.48] Completely -[3494.48 --> 3494.96] And -[3494.96 --> 3496.16] Comprehensively -[3496.16 --> 3497.14] Not only -[3497.14 --> 3497.54] Is that -[3497.54 --> 3497.76] Not -[3497.76 --> 3498.38] Fair -[3498.38 --> 3499.68] Not only -[3499.68 --> 3499.92] Is that -[3499.92 --> 3500.10] Not -[3500.10 --> 3500.66] Right -[3500.66 --> 3501.78] It doesn't -[3501.78 --> 3501.96] Even -[3501.96 --> 3502.74] Make sense -[3502.74 --> 3504.86] Right -[3504.86 --> 3505.20] How can -[3505.20 --> 3505.78] Someone who -[3505.78 --> 3506.38] Is not -[3506.38 --> 3506.76] Me -[3506.76 --> 3507.86] Stand in -[3507.86 --> 3508.40] For me -[3508.40 --> 3509.40] How can -[3509.40 --> 3509.90] Someone who -[3509.90 --> 3510.52] I didn't -[3510.52 --> 3510.98] Elect -[3510.98 --> 3512.08] Or select -[3512.08 --> 3513.08] Or choose -[3513.08 --> 3513.78] To represent -[3513.78 --> 3514.28] Me -[3514.28 --> 3514.96] How can -[3514.96 --> 3515.26] They do -[3515.26 --> 3515.42] That -[3515.42 --> 3515.68] How can -[3515.68 --> 3516.18] They claim -[3516.18 --> 3516.50] To have -[3516.50 --> 3517.00] That kind -[3517.00 --> 3517.64] Of authority -[3517.64 --> 3518.78] Over me -[3518.78 --> 3519.68] Right -[3519.68 --> 3519.86] In -[3519.86 --> 3520.64] Our modern -[3520.64 --> 3521.28] Culture -[3521.28 --> 3521.92] In our -[3521.92 --> 3522.54] Modern way -[3522.54 --> 3523.20] Of living -[3523.20 --> 3523.60] In the -[3523.60 --> 3523.90] World -[3523.90 --> 3525.08] Each -[3525.08 --> 3525.82] Person -[3525.82 --> 3526.80] Is sort -[3526.80 --> 3527.16] Of an -[3527.16 --> 3527.58] Island -[3527.58 --> 3528.12] Unto -[3528.12 --> 3528.72] Themselves -[3528.72 --> 3530.06] And -[3530.06 --> 3530.38] Yes -[3530.38 --> 3531.30] Of course -[3531.30 --> 3531.70] We are -[3531.70 --> 3532.44] All -[3532.44 --> 3534.02] Interconnected -[3534.02 --> 3534.58] We all -[3534.58 --> 3535.12] Live in -[3535.12 --> 3535.78] Communities -[3535.78 --> 3536.68] Or clusters -[3536.68 --> 3537.78] Of islands -[3537.78 --> 3538.12] But -[3538.12 --> 3539.22] Fundamentally -[3539.22 --> 3539.82] Right -[3539.82 --> 3540.60] Your rising -[3540.60 --> 3541.32] Or falling -[3541.32 --> 3542.00] Your ability -[3542.00 --> 3542.78] To succeed -[3542.78 --> 3544.16] Your ability -[3544.16 --> 3544.56] To get -[3544.56 --> 3545.02] Ahead -[3545.02 --> 3545.40] We are -[3545.40 --> 3545.76] Told -[3545.76 --> 3546.70] Is done -[3546.70 --> 3547.28] All by -[3547.28 --> 3547.68] Your own -[3547.68 --> 3548.08] Action -[3548.08 --> 3548.58] It's your -[3548.58 --> 3548.84] Own -[3548.84 --> 3549.34] Decisions -[3549.34 --> 3549.70] It's your -[3549.70 --> 3549.90] Own -[3549.90 --> 3550.60] Responsibility -[3550.60 --> 3551.04] It's your -[3551.04 --> 3551.20] Own -[3551.20 --> 3551.74] Ability -[3551.74 --> 3553.16] That's -[3553.16 --> 3553.38] The way -[3553.38 --> 3553.94] We believe -[3553.94 --> 3554.42] The world -[3554.42 --> 3555.44] Is built -[3555.44 --> 3557.54] And again -[3557.54 --> 3558.72] I get it -[3558.72 --> 3558.90] Right -[3558.90 --> 3559.28] We do -[3559.28 --> 3559.70] Exist -[3559.70 --> 3560.58] In communities -[3560.58 --> 3561.52] But our -[3561.52 --> 3562.50] Communities -[3562.50 --> 3565.26] Are more -[3565.26 --> 3566.16] A voluntary -[3566.16 --> 3567.38] Association -[3567.38 --> 3569.62] Right -[3569.62 --> 3570.04] Than they are -[3570.04 --> 3570.76] A representative -[3570.76 --> 3571.28] Community -[3571.28 --> 3571.76] Even our -[3571.76 --> 3572.32] Families -[3572.32 --> 3573.10] Right -[3573.10 --> 3573.48] You say -[3573.48 --> 3574.28] Nobody chooses -[3574.28 --> 3574.92] Your family -[3574.92 --> 3575.86] But when you -[3575.86 --> 3576.68] Hit 20 years -[3576.68 --> 3576.96] Old -[3576.96 --> 3577.42] Or 18 -[3577.42 --> 3577.98] Years old -[3577.98 --> 3578.34] You can -[3578.34 --> 3578.76] Choose not -[3578.76 --> 3579.04] To have -[3579.04 --> 3579.52] That family -[3579.52 --> 3579.86] Anymore -[3579.86 --> 3580.16] You can -[3580.16 --> 3580.38] Walk -[3580.38 --> 3580.68] Away -[3580.68 --> 3581.52] Right -[3581.52 --> 3581.94] In some -[3581.94 --> 3582.16] Way -[3582.16 --> 3582.90] The continued -[3582.90 --> 3583.66] Relationships -[3583.66 --> 3583.96] That we -[3583.96 --> 3584.88] Exist in -[3584.88 --> 3585.64] Are voluntary -[3585.64 --> 3587.02] Right -[3587.02 --> 3587.54] We have -[3587.54 --> 3588.34] The power -[3588.34 --> 3588.84] Or we -[3588.84 --> 3589.32] Believe we -[3589.32 --> 3589.84] Do anyway -[3589.84 --> 3590.28] To say -[3590.28 --> 3590.68] Yes -[3590.68 --> 3591.70] Or no -[3591.70 --> 3593.16] The idea -[3593.16 --> 3593.82] That someone -[3593.82 --> 3594.42] Else has -[3594.42 --> 3594.96] The power -[3594.96 --> 3595.36] To say -[3595.36 --> 3595.78] Yes or -[3595.78 --> 3596.00] No -[3596.00 --> 3596.40] On my -[3596.40 --> 3596.90] Behalf -[3596.90 --> 3597.20] Without -[3597.20 --> 3597.78] My giving -[3597.78 --> 3598.54] Consent -[3598.54 --> 3599.64] Is so -[3599.64 --> 3600.12] Foreign -[3600.12 --> 3600.82] To us -[3600.82 --> 3601.98] It's more -[3601.98 --> 3602.62] Triggering -[3602.62 --> 3603.14] Than the -[3603.14 --> 3603.34] Maple -[3603.34 --> 3603.64] Leaves -[3603.64 --> 3604.20] Winning -[3604.20 --> 3604.48] Against -[3604.48 --> 3604.60] The -[3604.60 --> 3605.00] Hurricanes -[3605.00 --> 3606.88] Or at -[3606.88 --> 3607.02] Least -[3607.02 --> 3607.42] It is -[3607.42 --> 3608.06] When we -[3608.06 --> 3608.36] Start to -[3608.36 --> 3608.56] Think -[3608.56 --> 3609.08] About it -[3609.08 --> 3610.24] Because -[3610.24 --> 3610.54] We don't -[3610.54 --> 3610.82] Normally -[3610.82 --> 3611.10] Think -[3611.10 --> 3611.58] About it -[3611.58 --> 3612.44] We just -[3612.44 --> 3612.62] Kind of -[3612.62 --> 3613.10] Operate -[3613.10 --> 3613.62] Within -[3613.62 --> 3613.82] It -[3613.82 --> 3615.98] Now -[3615.98 --> 3616.98] There are -[3616.98 --> 3617.62] Parallels -[3617.62 --> 3617.94] Right -[3617.94 --> 3618.38] And I'm -[3618.38 --> 3618.58] Not -[3618.58 --> 3619.68] Unaware -[3619.68 --> 3620.20] Of that -[3620.20 --> 3621.30] The parallels -[3621.30 --> 3621.78] Exist -[3621.78 --> 3622.50] When we -[3622.50 --> 3622.84] Do -[3622.84 --> 3623.28] Give -[3623.28 --> 3623.86] Ascent -[3623.86 --> 3624.60] That -[3624.60 --> 3624.74] That is -[3624.74 --> 3625.08] When we -[3625.08 --> 3625.34] Do -[3625.34 --> 3625.64] Give -[3625.64 --> 3626.14] Permission -[3626.14 --> 3626.36] To -[3626.36 --> 3626.66] Someone -[3626.66 --> 3627.16] To -[3627.16 --> 3627.58] Represent -[3627.58 --> 3628.02] Us -[3628.02 --> 3628.44] Right -[3628.44 --> 3628.62] For -[3628.62 --> 3629.12] instance -[3629.12 --> 3630.82] In -[3630.82 --> 3631.58] Collective -[3631.58 --> 3632.10] Bargaining -[3632.10 --> 3632.62] If you're -[3632.62 --> 3632.84] Part of -[3632.84 --> 3633.22] A union -[3633.22 --> 3633.86] Right -[3633.86 --> 3634.18] You have -[3634.18 --> 3634.60] A union -[3634.60 --> 3635.40] Representative -[3635.40 --> 3636.82] Who can -[3636.82 --> 3637.34] Function -[3637.34 --> 3638.02] On behalf -[3638.02 --> 3638.42] Of -[3638.42 --> 3639.18] The group -[3639.18 --> 3639.54] Who can -[3639.54 --> 3639.84] Make a -[3639.84 --> 3640.28] Decision -[3640.28 --> 3640.88] On behalf -[3640.88 --> 3641.18] Of -[3641.18 --> 3641.80] The whole -[3641.80 --> 3642.26] We have -[3642.26 --> 3643.44] Imbued -[3643.44 --> 3643.94] Them -[3643.94 --> 3644.50] With an -[3644.50 --> 3645.02] Authority -[3645.02 --> 3645.78] To do -[3645.78 --> 3646.06] So -[3646.06 --> 3647.82] Another -[3647.82 --> 3648.06] One -[3648.06 --> 3648.32] Is -[3648.32 --> 3648.84] Elected -[3648.84 --> 3649.32] Officials -[3649.32 --> 3650.44] Right -[3650.44 --> 3650.86] In a -[3650.86 --> 3651.54] In a -[3651.54 --> 3652.08] Representative -[3652.08 --> 3652.86] Democracy -[3652.86 --> 3653.56] We elect -[3653.56 --> 3654.32] Individuals -[3654.32 --> 3654.60] And we -[3654.60 --> 3655.12] Give them -[3655.12 --> 3655.60] A certain -[3655.60 --> 3655.90] Amount -[3655.90 --> 3656.40] Of power -[3656.40 --> 3656.84] To make -[3656.84 --> 3657.32] Decisions -[3657.32 --> 3657.68] On our -[3657.68 --> 3658.12] Behalf -[3658.12 --> 3658.88] And that's -[3658.88 --> 3659.44] I mean -[3659.44 --> 3659.78] At least -[3659.78 --> 3660.68] Functionally -[3660.68 --> 3661.22] Practically -[3661.22 --> 3661.62] Speaking -[3661.62 --> 3662.84] That's because -[3662.84 --> 3663.28] It would be -[3663.28 --> 3663.86] Impossible -[3663.86 --> 3664.54] To have -[3664.54 --> 3665.60] A genuinely -[3665.60 --> 3666.68] Comprehensively -[3666.68 --> 3667.12] Democratic -[3667.12 --> 3667.60] Society -[3667.60 --> 3668.24] Where every -[3668.24 --> 3668.66] Person -[3668.66 --> 3669.42] Needed to -[3669.42 --> 3669.70] Have all -[3669.70 --> 3670.26] The information -[3670.26 --> 3670.58] That they -[3670.58 --> 3670.86] Could have -[3670.86 --> 3671.22] At hand -[3671.22 --> 3671.50] In order -[3671.50 --> 3671.88] To vote -[3671.88 --> 3672.38] On everything -[3672.38 --> 3672.82] That needed -[3672.82 --> 3673.04] To be -[3673.04 --> 3673.26] Done -[3673.26 --> 3673.78] Or decided -[3673.78 --> 3674.18] Upon -[3674.18 --> 3675.02] Truth -[3675.02 --> 3675.30] Is -[3675.30 --> 3675.78] Sometimes -[3675.78 --> 3676.10] You need -[3676.10 --> 3676.40] Roads -[3676.40 --> 3676.88] Paved -[3676.88 --> 3677.46] And I -[3677.46 --> 3677.58] Don't -[3677.58 --> 3677.78] Want to -[3677.78 --> 3678.02] Have to -[3678.02 --> 3678.24] Vote -[3678.24 --> 3678.78] Every other -[3678.78 --> 3679.06] Week -[3679.06 --> 3679.38] To do -[3679.38 --> 3679.64] That -[3679.64 --> 3681.36] I'll -[3681.36 --> 3681.50] Give -[3681.50 --> 3681.72] Someone -[3681.72 --> 3682.24] The authority -[3682.24 --> 3682.66] To do -[3682.66 --> 3682.92] That -[3682.92 --> 3683.26] On my -[3683.26 --> 3683.70] Behalf -[3683.70 --> 3686.12] Sometimes -[3686.12 --> 3687.10] We think -[3687.10 --> 3687.56] About it -[3687.56 --> 3689.66] In law -[3689.66 --> 3690.04] Or with -[3690.04 --> 3690.48] Lawyers -[3690.48 --> 3690.76] Or an -[3690.76 --> 3691.10] Attorney -[3691.10 --> 3691.64] Right -[3691.64 --> 3692.30] Who represents -[3692.30 --> 3692.92] Their client -[3692.92 --> 3693.30] They can -[3693.30 --> 3693.78] Stand -[3693.78 --> 3694.72] And speak -[3694.72 --> 3695.32] On behalf -[3695.32 --> 3695.78] Of their -[3695.78 --> 3696.52] Client -[3696.52 --> 3697.04] In fact -[3697.04 --> 3699.34] In most -[3699.34 --> 3700.94] Law -[3700.94 --> 3701.44] Courts -[3701.44 --> 3702.10] And cases -[3702.10 --> 3702.96] The client -[3702.96 --> 3703.40] Doesn't -[3703.40 --> 3703.88] Ever say -[3703.88 --> 3704.32] A word -[3704.32 --> 3705.44] But just -[3705.44 --> 3705.92] Sits there -[3705.92 --> 3706.50] The lawyer -[3706.50 --> 3706.92] Acts on -[3706.92 --> 3707.42] Their behalf -[3707.42 --> 3708.46] Right -[3708.46 --> 3709.12] Or similarly -[3709.12 --> 3709.66] Some of -[3709.66 --> 3710.06] You are -[3710.06 --> 3710.56] In the -[3710.56 --> 3710.76] Midst -[3710.76 --> 3711.02] Of this -[3711.02 --> 3711.24] Kind -[3711.24 --> 3711.46] Of thing -[3711.46 --> 3711.68] Right -[3711.68 --> 3711.92] Now -[3711.92 --> 3712.32] Or have -[3712.32 --> 3712.50] Been -[3712.50 --> 3712.92] Before -[3712.92 --> 3713.54] Right -[3713.54 --> 3713.80] You have -[3713.80 --> 3713.98] An -[3713.98 --> 3715.24] Aged -[3715.24 --> 3715.50] Or -[3715.50 --> 3716.46] Older -[3716.46 --> 3717.46] Or unable -[3717.46 --> 3718.16] Relative -[3718.16 --> 3718.72] And they -[3718.72 --> 3719.26] Give you -[3719.26 --> 3720.02] Power of -[3720.02 --> 3720.44] Attorney -[3720.44 --> 3721.52] You make -[3721.52 --> 3721.96] Decisions -[3721.96 --> 3722.24] On their -[3722.24 --> 3722.68] Behalf -[3722.68 --> 3724.62] So there -[3724.62 --> 3724.92] Are some -[3724.92 --> 3725.52] Parallels -[3725.52 --> 3726.22] But in -[3726.22 --> 3726.58] Each of -[3726.58 --> 3726.76] Those -[3726.76 --> 3727.26] Cases -[3727.26 --> 3728.22] You -[3728.22 --> 3728.98] Select -[3728.98 --> 3729.26] Your -[3729.26 --> 3729.92] Representative -[3729.92 --> 3730.84] Right -[3730.84 --> 3731.30] Or you -[3731.30 --> 3731.76] Have the -[3731.76 --> 3732.42] Opportunity -[3732.42 --> 3733.34] To remove -[3733.34 --> 3733.56] Them -[3733.56 --> 3734.22] From office -[3734.22 --> 3734.54] In the -[3734.54 --> 3734.78] Next -[3734.78 --> 3735.20] Election -[3735.20 --> 3735.64] Cycle -[3735.64 --> 3735.96] If they -[3735.96 --> 3736.12] Don't -[3736.12 --> 3736.28] Do -[3736.28 --> 3736.44] What -[3736.44 --> 3736.54] You -[3736.54 --> 3736.82] Want -[3736.82 --> 3737.86] The -[3737.86 --> 3738.40] Idea -[3738.40 --> 3738.74] That -[3738.74 --> 3739.00] We -[3739.00 --> 3739.24] Can -[3739.24 --> 3739.56] Have -[3739.56 --> 3739.78] A -[3739.78 --> 3740.36] Representative -[3740.36 --> 3740.78] That -[3740.78 --> 3740.98] We -[3740.98 --> 3741.40] Didn't -[3741.40 --> 3741.86] Pick -[3741.86 --> 3742.78] Is -[3742.78 --> 3743.30] Foreign -[3743.30 --> 3744.08] To -[3744.08 --> 3744.54] Us -[3744.54 --> 3746.54] And it's -[3746.54 --> 3746.96] Part of -[3746.96 --> 3747.26] What we -[3747.26 --> 3747.72] Miss -[3747.72 --> 3748.50] Or why -[3748.50 --> 3749.12] We miss -[3749.12 --> 3749.52] The -[3749.52 --> 3750.48] Importance -[3750.48 --> 3751.40] Of what -[3751.40 --> 3751.56] Paul -[3751.56 --> 3752.48] Of what -[3752.48 --> 3753.82] Paul is -[3753.82 --> 3754.40] Talking about -[3754.40 --> 3755.08] Here in -[3755.08 --> 3755.74] Romans 5 -[3755.74 --> 3756.24] But in -[3756.24 --> 3756.36] The -[3756.36 --> 3756.74] Bible -[3756.74 --> 3757.48] And in -[3757.48 --> 3757.62] The -[3757.62 --> 3757.90] World -[3757.90 --> 3758.10] Of -[3758.10 --> 3758.24] The -[3758.24 --> 3758.60] Bible -[3758.60 --> 3759.02] When the -[3759.02 --> 3759.34] Bible -[3759.34 --> 3759.58] Was -[3759.58 --> 3760.00] Written -[3760.00 --> 3761.10] That -[3761.10 --> 3761.30] Takes -[3761.30 --> 3761.44] A -[3761.44 --> 3761.68] Whole -[3761.68 --> 3762.10] Different -[3762.10 --> 3762.84] Approach -[3762.84 --> 3763.30] To -[3763.30 --> 3763.78] This -[3763.78 --> 3764.32] Idea -[3764.32 --> 3764.92] Of -[3764.92 --> 3765.96] Headship -[3765.96 --> 3766.38] This -[3766.38 --> 3766.74] Idea -[3766.74 --> 3767.12] Of -[3767.12 --> 3767.40] A -[3767.40 --> 3767.96] Representative -[3767.96 --> 3769.80] In -[3769.80 --> 3769.94] The -[3769.94 --> 3770.36] Bible -[3770.36 --> 3770.82] It's -[3770.82 --> 3771.16] Based -[3771.16 --> 3771.68] On -[3771.68 --> 3772.18] A -[3772.18 --> 3772.94] Principle -[3772.94 --> 3773.48] Of -[3773.48 --> 3774.12] Common -[3774.12 --> 3775.06] Humanity -[3775.06 --> 3775.84] Or -[3775.84 --> 3776.04] Of -[3776.04 --> 3776.48] Human -[3776.48 --> 3777.36] Solidarity -[3777.36 --> 3778.70] One -[3778.70 --> 3779.34] Commentary -[3779.34 --> 3779.60] That I -[3779.60 --> 3779.74] Was -[3779.74 --> 3780.00] Reading -[3780.00 --> 3780.86] That -[3780.86 --> 3781.04] Helped -[3781.04 --> 3781.16] Me -[3781.16 --> 3781.40] See -[3781.40 --> 3781.72] This -[3781.72 --> 3782.24] Put -[3782.24 --> 3782.32] It -[3782.32 --> 3782.50] This -[3782.50 --> 3782.64] Way -[3782.64 --> 3782.80] They -[3782.80 --> 3783.04] Said -[3783.04 --> 3784.12] The -[3784.12 --> 3784.52] Idea -[3784.52 --> 3784.74] Of -[3784.74 --> 3785.66] Solidarity -[3785.66 --> 3786.12] Is -[3786.12 --> 3786.30] That -[3786.30 --> 3786.44] You -[3786.44 --> 3786.60] Can -[3786.60 --> 3786.94] Have -[3786.94 --> 3787.18] A -[3787.18 --> 3787.66] Legitimate -[3787.66 --> 3788.36] Relationship -[3788.36 --> 3788.60] With -[3788.60 --> 3788.74] A -[3788.74 --> 3789.08] Person -[3789.08 --> 3789.72] So -[3789.72 --> 3789.90] That -[3789.90 --> 3790.24] Whatever -[3790.24 --> 3790.48] The -[3790.48 --> 3790.78] Person -[3790.78 --> 3791.40] Achieves -[3791.40 --> 3792.04] Or -[3792.04 --> 3792.38] Loses -[3792.38 --> 3793.28] You -[3793.28 --> 3793.80] Achieve -[3793.80 --> 3794.40] Or -[3794.40 --> 3794.74] Lose -[3794.74 --> 3796.72] Now -[3796.72 --> 3796.94] In -[3796.94 --> 3797.48] Philosophy -[3797.48 --> 3797.94] In -[3797.94 --> 3798.58] Theology -[3798.58 --> 3799.12] We -[3799.12 --> 3799.48] Call -[3799.48 --> 3799.94] This -[3799.94 --> 3800.70] Federal -[3800.70 --> 3801.80] Headship -[3801.80 --> 3803.60] Now -[3803.60 --> 3803.92] The -[3803.92 --> 3804.36] Word -[3804.36 --> 3805.18] Federal -[3805.18 --> 3806.52] Comes -[3806.52 --> 3806.98] From -[3806.98 --> 3807.22] A -[3807.22 --> 3807.50] Latin -[3807.50 --> 3808.00] Word -[3808.00 --> 3808.40] That -[3808.40 --> 3808.66] Means -[3808.66 --> 3809.24] Treaty -[3809.24 --> 3809.88] Or -[3809.88 --> 3810.32] Covenant -[3810.32 --> 3811.94] So -[3811.94 --> 3812.14] The -[3812.14 --> 3812.60] Federal -[3812.60 --> 3813.18] Head -[3813.18 --> 3813.50] Is -[3813.50 --> 3813.70] The -[3813.70 --> 3814.20] Person -[3814.20 --> 3814.98] Who -[3814.98 --> 3815.52] Through -[3815.52 --> 3815.86] A -[3815.86 --> 3816.34] Covenant -[3816.34 --> 3817.60] Relationship -[3817.60 --> 3818.86] Represents -[3818.86 --> 3819.18] Or -[3819.18 --> 3819.92] Stands -[3819.92 --> 3820.36] In -[3820.36 --> 3821.06] For -[3821.06 --> 3821.44] Someone -[3821.44 --> 3821.86] Else -[3821.86 --> 3824.84] Now -[3824.84 --> 3827.48] Like I -[3827.48 --> 3827.80] Said -[3827.80 --> 3828.08] We -[3828.08 --> 3828.28] Might -[3828.28 --> 3828.64] Struggle -[3828.64 --> 3828.92] With -[3828.92 --> 3829.18] This -[3829.18 --> 3830.16] Idea -[3830.16 --> 3831.32] Right -[3831.32 --> 3831.60] Sometimes -[3831.60 --> 3831.98] People -[3831.98 --> 3832.28] Hear -[3832.28 --> 3832.62] This -[3832.62 --> 3832.80] And -[3832.80 --> 3832.90] They -[3832.90 --> 3833.04] Go -[3833.04 --> 3833.58] How -[3833.58 --> 3833.78] Is -[3833.78 --> 3833.94] It -[3833.94 --> 3834.48] Fair -[3834.48 --> 3835.02] That -[3835.02 --> 3835.42] I -[3835.42 --> 3835.68] Am -[3835.68 --> 3836.46] Judged -[3836.46 --> 3836.82] Or -[3836.82 --> 3836.96] That -[3836.96 --> 3837.20] I -[3837.20 --> 3837.42] Am -[3837.42 --> 3837.94] Punished -[3837.94 --> 3838.40] For -[3838.40 --> 3838.78] Something -[3838.78 --> 3839.18] Someone -[3839.18 --> 3839.44] Else -[3839.44 --> 3839.76] Did -[3839.76 --> 3841.08] Right -[3841.08 --> 3841.36] Sometimes -[3841.36 --> 3841.78] We're -[3841.78 --> 3842.00] Even -[3842.00 --> 3842.44] Tempted -[3842.44 --> 3842.58] To -[3842.58 --> 3842.82] Think -[3842.82 --> 3843.06] That -[3843.06 --> 3843.76] If -[3843.76 --> 3844.24] I -[3844.24 --> 3844.50] Was -[3844.50 --> 3844.66] In -[3844.66 --> 3844.80] The -[3844.80 --> 3845.10] Garden -[3845.10 --> 3845.94] I -[3845.94 --> 3846.14] Would -[3846.14 --> 3846.28] Have -[3846.28 --> 3846.50] Done -[3846.50 --> 3847.10] Differently -[3847.10 --> 3848.42] I -[3848.42 --> 3848.60] Would -[3848.60 --> 3848.72] Have -[3848.72 --> 3848.92] Done -[3848.92 --> 3849.26] Better -[3849.26 --> 3850.84] Right -[3850.84 --> 3850.98] Or -[3850.98 --> 3851.32] We -[3851.32 --> 3851.52] Think -[3851.52 --> 3851.66] That -[3851.66 --> 3851.80] It's -[3851.80 --> 3852.58] Unfair -[3852.58 --> 3853.26] That -[3853.26 --> 3853.76] Adam -[3853.76 --> 3854.40] Was -[3854.40 --> 3855.12] Elected -[3855.12 --> 3855.40] As -[3855.40 --> 3855.64] Our -[3855.64 --> 3856.02] Federal -[3856.02 --> 3856.46] Head -[3856.46 --> 3857.44] But -[3857.44 --> 3857.74] Not -[3857.74 --> 3858.02] By -[3858.02 --> 3858.50] Us -[3858.50 --> 3859.76] Right -[3859.76 --> 3859.94] I -[3859.94 --> 3860.28] Didn't -[3860.28 --> 3860.90] Vote -[3860.90 --> 3861.10] For -[3861.10 --> 3861.38] Him -[3861.38 --> 3861.64] On -[3861.64 --> 3861.76] The -[3861.76 --> 3862.16] Ballot -[3862.16 --> 3862.72] In -[3862.72 --> 3862.92] That -[3862.92 --> 3863.24] Secret -[3863.24 --> 3863.58] Little -[3863.58 --> 3864.16] Cardboard -[3864.16 --> 3864.62] Box -[3864.62 --> 3865.98] Right -[3865.98 --> 3866.26] We -[3866.26 --> 3866.54] Want -[3866.54 --> 3866.68] To -[3866.68 --> 3866.88] Pick -[3866.88 --> 3867.14] Who's -[3867.14 --> 3867.28] Going -[3867.28 --> 3867.38] To -[3867.38 --> 3867.74] Represent -[3867.74 --> 3868.24] Us -[3868.24 --> 3868.80] We -[3868.80 --> 3869.00] Want -[3869.00 --> 3869.08] To -[3869.08 --> 3869.14] Be -[3869.14 --> 3869.26] Able -[3869.26 --> 3869.36] To -[3869.36 --> 3869.50] Make -[3869.50 --> 3869.86] Sure -[3869.86 --> 3870.08] That -[3870.08 --> 3870.22] They're -[3870.22 --> 3870.34] The -[3870.34 --> 3870.62] Best -[3870.62 --> 3871.16] Representative -[3871.16 --> 3872.12] Possible -[3872.12 --> 3873.86] But -[3873.86 --> 3874.06] Here's -[3874.06 --> 3874.18] The -[3874.18 --> 3874.48] Thing -[3874.48 --> 3874.70] Right -[3874.70 --> 3874.84] When -[3874.84 --> 3874.94] You -[3874.94 --> 3875.12] Come -[3875.12 --> 3875.26] At -[3875.26 --> 3875.34] It -[3875.34 --> 3875.50] With -[3875.50 --> 3875.72] That -[3875.72 --> 3876.78] Attitude -[3876.78 --> 3879.16] We -[3879.16 --> 3879.26] Have -[3879.26 --> 3879.36] To -[3879.36 --> 3879.70] Remember -[3879.70 --> 3880.98] That -[3880.98 --> 3881.58] God -[3881.58 --> 3882.42] Chose -[3882.42 --> 3883.30] Adam -[3883.30 --> 3884.04] To -[3884.04 --> 3884.18] Be -[3884.18 --> 3884.34] Our -[3884.34 --> 3884.58] Head -[3884.58 --> 3886.74] And -[3886.74 --> 3886.86] Do -[3886.86 --> 3886.98] You -[3886.98 --> 3887.24] Really -[3887.24 --> 3887.62] Believe -[3887.62 --> 3888.76] That -[3888.76 --> 3889.14] You -[3889.14 --> 3889.58] Could -[3889.58 --> 3889.96] Make -[3889.96 --> 3890.18] A -[3890.18 --> 3890.38] Better -[3890.38 --> 3890.96] Choice -[3890.96 --> 3891.92] That -[3891.92 --> 3892.14] You -[3892.14 --> 3892.46] Could -[3892.46 --> 3892.70] Do -[3892.70 --> 3893.18] Better -[3893.18 --> 3894.28] Than -[3894.28 --> 3894.68] God -[3894.68 --> 3896.98] And -[3896.98 --> 3897.18] Maybe -[3897.18 --> 3897.36] You -[3897.36 --> 3897.66] Do -[3897.66 --> 3900.22] But -[3900.22 --> 3900.42] That's -[3900.42 --> 3900.64] Part -[3900.64 --> 3900.84] Of -[3900.84 --> 3901.48] The -[3901.48 --> 3902.18] Consequence -[3902.18 --> 3902.66] Of -[3902.66 --> 3902.86] This -[3902.86 --> 3903.18] Being -[3903.18 --> 3903.64] True -[3903.64 --> 3906.84] Right -[3906.84 --> 3907.06] It's -[3907.06 --> 3907.26] Not -[3907.26 --> 3907.62] Just -[3907.62 --> 3908.02] That -[3908.02 --> 3908.54] God -[3908.54 --> 3909.12] Chose -[3909.12 --> 3909.64] Adam -[3909.64 --> 3910.08] Right -[3910.08 --> 3910.30] God -[3910.30 --> 3911.14] Created -[3911.14 --> 3911.50] Adam -[3911.50 --> 3911.86] For -[3911.86 --> 3912.12] That -[3912.12 --> 3912.60] Very -[3912.60 --> 3913.24] Purpose -[3913.24 --> 3913.70] Because -[3913.70 --> 3913.84] The -[3913.84 --> 3914.04] Truth -[3914.04 --> 3914.22] Is -[3914.22 --> 3914.42] You -[3914.42 --> 3914.78] Wouldn't -[3914.78 --> 3914.92] Have -[3914.92 --> 3915.10] Done -[3915.10 --> 3915.22] A -[3915.22 --> 3915.38] Better -[3915.38 --> 3915.88] Job -[3915.88 --> 3917.10] You -[3917.10 --> 3917.32] Would -[3917.32 --> 3917.42] Have -[3917.42 --> 3917.66] Done -[3917.66 --> 3917.86] The -[3917.86 --> 3918.14] Same -[3918.14 --> 3918.52] Job -[3918.52 --> 3918.84] As -[3918.84 --> 3919.16] Adam -[3919.16 --> 3920.80] In -[3920.80 --> 3920.90] Fact -[3920.90 --> 3921.22] I'm -[3921.22 --> 3921.58] Convinced -[3921.58 --> 3921.76] When -[3921.76 --> 3921.84] I -[3921.84 --> 3921.98] Look -[3921.98 --> 3922.06] At -[3922.06 --> 3922.18] My -[3922.18 --> 3922.32] Own -[3922.32 --> 3922.50] Life -[3922.50 --> 3922.66] I -[3922.66 --> 3922.80] Would -[3922.80 --> 3922.90] Have -[3922.90 --> 3923.04] Done -[3923.04 --> 3923.18] The -[3923.18 --> 3923.36] Same -[3923.36 --> 3923.58] Job -[3923.58 --> 3923.70] As -[3923.70 --> 3923.92] Adam -[3923.92 --> 3924.14] But -[3924.14 --> 3924.56] Quicker -[3924.56 --> 3927.24] What's -[3927.24 --> 3927.60] More -[3927.60 --> 3928.44] Right -[3928.44 --> 3929.16] Adam -[3929.16 --> 3929.52] Was -[3929.52 --> 3930.66] Created -[3930.66 --> 3931.62] For -[3931.62 --> 3931.90] That -[3931.90 --> 3932.52] Purpose -[3932.52 --> 3933.48] Right -[3933.48 --> 3933.76] God -[3933.76 --> 3934.52] Created -[3934.52 --> 3934.86] Him -[3934.86 --> 3935.14] To -[3935.14 --> 3935.56] Be -[3935.56 --> 3936.24] Your -[3936.24 --> 3937.26] Representative -[3937.26 --> 3939.02] And -[3939.02 --> 3939.38] So -[3939.38 --> 3940.80] Sin -[3940.80 --> 3941.26] Entered -[3941.26 --> 3941.38] The -[3941.38 --> 3941.68] World -[3941.68 --> 3942.16] Through -[3942.16 --> 3942.86] One -[3942.86 --> 3943.64] Man -[3943.64 --> 3944.06] And -[3944.06 --> 3944.42] Death -[3944.42 --> 3945.14] Through -[3945.14 --> 3945.96] Sin -[3945.96 --> 3946.26] And -[3946.26 --> 3946.40] In -[3946.40 --> 3946.62] This -[3946.62 --> 3946.88] Way -[3946.88 --> 3947.26] Death -[3947.26 --> 3947.78] Came -[3947.78 --> 3948.22] To -[3948.22 --> 3948.52] All -[3948.52 --> 3948.90] People -[3948.90 --> 3949.56] Because -[3949.56 --> 3950.34] All -[3950.34 --> 3951.78] Sinned -[3951.78 --> 3953.44] Adam -[3953.44 --> 3953.72] Is -[3953.72 --> 3953.94] The -[3953.94 --> 3954.32] Federal -[3954.32 --> 3954.82] Head -[3954.82 --> 3955.20] Of -[3955.20 --> 3956.00] Humanity -[3956.00 --> 3956.50] He -[3956.50 --> 3956.90] Must -[3956.90 --> 3957.22] Be -[3957.22 --> 3957.62] And -[3957.62 --> 3957.92] He -[3957.92 --> 3958.48] Is -[3958.48 --> 3958.94] And -[3958.94 --> 3959.30] That's -[3959.30 --> 3959.64] Why -[3959.64 --> 3960.20] Sin -[3960.20 --> 3960.74] And -[3960.74 --> 3961.12] Death -[3961.12 --> 3961.80] Reign -[3961.80 --> 3962.38] In -[3962.38 --> 3962.50] The -[3962.50 --> 3962.78] World -[3962.78 --> 3965.36] But -[3965.36 --> 3966.82] But -[3966.82 --> 3967.38] Thanks -[3967.38 --> 3967.58] Be -[3967.58 --> 3967.76] To -[3967.76 --> 3968.04] God -[3968.04 --> 3968.30] Paul -[3968.30 --> 3969.08] Continues -[3969.08 --> 3969.22] And -[3969.22 --> 3969.36] This -[3969.36 --> 3969.48] Is -[3969.48 --> 3969.60] The -[3969.60 --> 3969.82] Point -[3969.82 --> 3969.96] That -[3969.96 --> 3970.08] He -[3970.08 --> 3970.22] Has -[3970.22 --> 3970.36] Been -[3970.36 --> 3970.64] Making -[3970.64 --> 3970.94] Throughout -[3970.94 --> 3971.14] This -[3971.14 --> 3971.32] Whole -[3971.32 --> 3971.64] First -[3971.64 --> 3971.94] Part -[3971.94 --> 3972.10] Of -[3972.10 --> 3972.44] Romans -[3972.44 --> 3972.94] Right -[3972.94 --> 3973.06] That -[3973.06 --> 3973.20] There -[3973.20 --> 3973.44] Is -[3973.44 --> 3973.60] A -[3973.60 --> 3973.90] True -[3973.90 --> 3974.18] And -[3974.18 --> 3974.54] Better -[3974.54 --> 3975.00] Adam -[3975.00 --> 3976.64] And -[3976.64 --> 3976.90] Since -[3976.90 --> 3977.16] All -[3977.16 --> 3977.30] Of -[3977.30 --> 3977.76] Humanity -[3977.76 --> 3978.04] Is -[3978.04 --> 3978.60] Created -[3978.60 --> 3978.80] To -[3978.80 --> 3978.98] Be -[3978.98 --> 3979.34] Under -[3979.34 --> 3979.66] A -[3979.66 --> 3980.00] Head -[3980.00 --> 3980.54] And -[3980.54 --> 3981.06] Adam's -[3981.06 --> 3981.58] Headship -[3981.58 --> 3981.86] Brought -[3981.86 --> 3982.22] Sin -[3982.22 --> 3982.48] And -[3982.48 --> 3982.78] Death -[3982.78 --> 3983.20] We -[3983.20 --> 3983.50] Need -[3983.50 --> 3984.08] Another -[3984.08 --> 3985.06] Head -[3985.06 --> 3985.28] We -[3985.28 --> 3985.46] Need -[3985.46 --> 3985.64] A -[3985.64 --> 3986.24] New -[3986.24 --> 3986.64] Head -[3986.64 --> 3986.86] A -[3986.86 --> 3987.12] New -[3987.12 --> 3987.88] Covenant -[3987.88 --> 3988.38] Partner -[3988.38 --> 3988.62] To -[3988.62 --> 3989.02] Represent -[3989.02 --> 3989.38] Us -[3989.38 --> 3989.52] In -[3989.52 --> 3989.64] Order -[3989.64 --> 3989.82] To -[3989.82 --> 3990.56] Overcome -[3990.56 --> 3991.22] Sin -[3991.22 --> 3991.48] And -[3991.48 --> 3991.74] Death -[3991.74 --> 3992.14] That's -[3992.14 --> 3992.46] Paul's -[3992.46 --> 3992.76] Point -[3992.76 --> 3993.24] Here -[3993.24 --> 3993.44] In -[3993.44 --> 3993.84] Verse -[3993.84 --> 3994.34] 15 -[3994.34 --> 3995.14] Right -[3995.14 --> 3995.24] When -[3995.24 --> 3995.34] He -[3995.34 --> 3995.58] Says -[3995.58 --> 3996.04] But -[3996.04 --> 3996.18] The -[3996.18 --> 3996.58] Gift -[3996.58 --> 3996.98] Is -[3996.98 --> 3997.28] Not -[3997.28 --> 3997.58] Like -[3997.58 --> 3997.78] The -[3997.78 --> 3998.44] Trespass -[3998.44 --> 4001.00] For -[4001.00 --> 4001.26] If -[4001.26 --> 4001.56] The -[4001.56 --> 4001.86] Many -[4001.86 --> 4002.52] Died -[4002.52 --> 4002.84] By -[4002.84 --> 4003.02] The -[4003.02 --> 4003.58] Trespass -[4003.58 --> 4003.78] Of -[4003.78 --> 4003.94] The -[4003.94 --> 4004.18] One -[4004.18 --> 4004.56] Man -[4004.56 --> 4005.06] How -[4005.06 --> 4005.46] Much -[4005.46 --> 4005.96] More -[4005.96 --> 4006.28] Did -[4006.28 --> 4006.66] God's -[4006.66 --> 4007.04] Grace -[4007.04 --> 4007.56] And -[4007.56 --> 4007.74] The -[4007.74 --> 4008.02] Gift -[4008.02 --> 4008.26] That -[4008.26 --> 4008.64] Came -[4008.64 --> 4008.94] By -[4008.94 --> 4009.16] The -[4009.16 --> 4009.52] Grace -[4009.52 --> 4010.20] Of -[4010.20 --> 4010.40] The -[4010.40 --> 4010.62] One -[4010.62 --> 4010.86] Man -[4010.86 --> 4011.14] Jesus -[4011.14 --> 4011.60] Christ -[4011.60 --> 4012.68] Overflow -[4012.68 --> 4013.16] To -[4013.16 --> 4013.30] The -[4013.30 --> 4013.58] Many -[4013.58 --> 4015.96] So -[4015.96 --> 4016.20] Let's -[4016.20 --> 4016.52] Put it -[4016.52 --> 4016.94] Plainly -[4016.94 --> 4017.12] We'll -[4017.12 --> 4017.24] Pull -[4017.24 --> 4017.42] These -[4017.42 --> 4017.56] Two -[4017.56 --> 4017.76] Things -[4017.76 --> 4018.08] Together -[4018.08 --> 4018.84] If -[4018.84 --> 4019.18] You -[4019.18 --> 4019.60] Want -[4019.60 --> 4020.16] Christ -[4020.16 --> 4020.98] Standing -[4020.98 --> 4021.34] In -[4021.34 --> 4021.56] Your -[4021.56 --> 4022.02] Place -[4022.02 --> 4022.26] To -[4022.26 --> 4022.48] Be -[4022.48 --> 4023.00] Possible -[4023.00 --> 4023.76] If -[4023.76 --> 4023.94] You -[4023.94 --> 4024.22] Want -[4024.22 --> 4024.82] Salvation -[4024.82 --> 4025.16] To -[4025.16 --> 4025.36] Be -[4025.36 --> 4025.84] Possible -[4025.84 --> 4026.64] We -[4026.64 --> 4027.38] Need -[4027.38 --> 4027.64] A -[4027.64 --> 4028.12] Doctrine -[4028.12 --> 4028.38] Of -[4028.38 --> 4028.76] Federal -[4028.76 --> 4029.34] Headship -[4029.34 --> 4033.88] Verse -[4033.88 --> 4034.38] 17 -[4034.38 --> 4035.76] Makes -[4035.76 --> 4035.96] The -[4035.96 --> 4036.60] Contrast -[4036.60 --> 4037.64] More -[4037.64 --> 4038.00] Clearly -[4038.00 --> 4039.88] By -[4039.88 --> 4040.74] The -[4040.74 --> 4041.72] Trespass -[4041.72 --> 4042.14] Of -[4042.14 --> 4042.92] One -[4042.92 --> 4043.62] Man -[4043.62 --> 4045.48] Adam -[4045.48 --> 4046.84] Right -[4046.84 --> 4047.00] The -[4047.00 --> 4047.94] Trespass -[4047.94 --> 4048.38] That -[4048.38 --> 4049.10] Heightens -[4049.10 --> 4049.38] The -[4049.38 --> 4050.62] Disobedience -[4050.62 --> 4051.04] Right -[4051.04 --> 4051.26] It's -[4051.26 --> 4051.44] Not -[4051.44 --> 4051.72] Just -[4051.72 --> 4051.92] That -[4051.92 --> 4052.08] He -[4052.08 --> 4052.42] Didn't -[4052.42 --> 4052.80] Know -[4052.80 --> 4053.32] Better -[4053.32 --> 4054.32] In -[4054.32 --> 4054.56] Fact -[4054.56 --> 4054.80] It's -[4054.80 --> 4054.96] That -[4054.96 --> 4055.16] He -[4055.16 --> 4055.56] Thought -[4055.56 --> 4055.76] He -[4055.76 --> 4055.92] Knew -[4055.92 --> 4056.24] Better -[4056.24 --> 4056.74] Than -[4056.74 --> 4057.10] God -[4057.10 --> 4057.32] And -[4057.32 --> 4058.00] By -[4058.00 --> 4058.52] His -[4058.52 --> 4059.56] Trespass -[4059.56 --> 4060.42] Death -[4060.42 --> 4061.44] Reigns -[4061.44 --> 4062.56] Right -[4062.56 --> 4062.72] That -[4062.72 --> 4062.90] Is -[4062.90 --> 4063.44] Everyone -[4063.44 --> 4064.06] After -[4064.06 --> 4064.40] Adam -[4064.40 --> 4064.66] Is -[4064.66 --> 4065.18] Bound -[4065.18 --> 4065.48] In -[4065.48 --> 4066.00] Spiritual -[4066.00 --> 4066.66] And -[4066.66 --> 4067.16] Physical -[4067.16 --> 4067.90] Death -[4067.90 --> 4068.26] The -[4068.26 --> 4068.64] Two -[4068.64 --> 4068.98] Are -[4068.98 --> 4069.36] Tied -[4069.36 --> 4069.84] Together -[4069.84 --> 4071.04] Intimately -[4071.04 --> 4071.46] And -[4071.46 --> 4071.66] Are -[4071.66 --> 4072.06] Over -[4072.06 --> 4072.54] All -[4072.54 --> 4072.80] Of -[4072.80 --> 4073.18] Us -[4073.18 --> 4073.72] And -[4073.72 --> 4074.04] Then -[4074.04 --> 4074.26] The -[4074.26 --> 4074.82] Contrast -[4074.82 --> 4075.14] Now -[4075.14 --> 4075.66] With -[4075.66 --> 4076.42] Jesus -[4076.42 --> 4077.42] If -[4077.42 --> 4077.60] By -[4077.60 --> 4077.78] The -[4077.78 --> 4078.28] Trespass -[4078.28 --> 4078.46] Of -[4078.46 --> 4078.68] One -[4078.68 --> 4078.96] Man -[4078.96 --> 4079.28] Death -[4079.28 --> 4079.66] Reigned -[4079.66 --> 4079.94] Through -[4079.94 --> 4080.16] That -[4080.16 --> 4080.40] One -[4080.40 --> 4080.62] Man -[4080.62 --> 4081.08] How -[4081.08 --> 4081.60] Much -[4081.60 --> 4082.60] More -[4082.60 --> 4083.90] How -[4083.90 --> 4084.36] Much -[4084.36 --> 4085.26] More -[4085.26 --> 4087.66] In -[4087.66 --> 4088.12] My -[4088.12 --> 4088.80] Last -[4088.80 --> 4089.20] Church -[4089.20 --> 4090.16] In -[4090.16 --> 4090.76] Ontario -[4090.76 --> 4091.00] I -[4091.00 --> 4091.14] Was -[4091.14 --> 4091.74] Privileged -[4091.74 --> 4092.38] To -[4092.38 --> 4092.54] Have -[4092.54 --> 4092.66] A -[4092.66 --> 4093.10] Retired -[4093.10 --> 4093.66] Pastor -[4093.66 --> 4094.24] There -[4094.24 --> 4094.42] By -[4094.42 --> 4094.56] The -[4094.56 --> 4094.76] Name -[4094.76 --> 4095.08] Of -[4095.08 --> 4095.46] Jan -[4095.46 --> 4096.12] Parabum -[4096.12 --> 4097.74] He -[4097.74 --> 4097.98] Had -[4097.98 --> 4098.40] Served -[4098.40 --> 4099.26] Churches -[4099.26 --> 4099.74] For -[4099.74 --> 4100.50] A -[4100.50 --> 4100.92] 45 -[4100.92 --> 4101.38] Year -[4101.38 --> 4101.82] Career -[4101.82 --> 4102.26] And -[4102.26 --> 4102.50] By -[4102.50 --> 4102.64] The -[4102.64 --> 4102.98] Time -[4102.98 --> 4103.64] I -[4103.64 --> 4103.88] Had -[4103.88 --> 4104.14] Him -[4104.14 --> 4104.32] In -[4104.32 --> 4104.48] My -[4104.48 --> 4105.02] Congregation -[4105.02 --> 4105.28] He -[4105.28 --> 4105.44] Was -[4105.44 --> 4105.56] In -[4105.56 --> 4105.72] His -[4105.72 --> 4105.98] Mid -[4105.98 --> 4106.66] To -[4106.66 --> 4106.88] Late -[4106.88 --> 4107.44] 80s -[4107.44 --> 4108.36] He -[4108.36 --> 4108.58] Has -[4108.58 --> 4108.90] Since -[4108.90 --> 4109.34] Gone -[4109.34 --> 4109.76] To -[4109.76 --> 4110.18] Be -[4110.18 --> 4110.48] In -[4110.48 --> 4110.88] Glory -[4110.88 --> 4111.62] But -[4111.62 --> 4111.86] He -[4111.86 --> 4112.30] Had -[4112.30 --> 4112.56] A -[4112.56 --> 4113.02] Favorite -[4113.02 --> 4113.74] Phrase -[4113.74 --> 4114.54] That -[4114.54 --> 4114.64] He -[4114.64 --> 4114.78] Would -[4114.78 --> 4114.96] Use -[4114.96 --> 4115.44] All -[4115.44 --> 4115.64] The -[4115.64 --> 4116.04] Time -[4116.04 --> 4116.84] His -[4116.84 --> 4117.24] Favorite -[4117.24 --> 4117.82] Expression -[4117.82 --> 4118.18] Was -[4118.18 --> 4118.42] The -[4118.42 --> 4118.96] Super -[4118.96 --> 4119.74] Abundant -[4119.74 --> 4120.28] Grace -[4120.28 --> 4120.96] Of -[4120.96 --> 4121.32] God -[4121.32 --> 4122.42] And -[4122.42 --> 4122.52] In -[4122.52 --> 4122.66] Fact -[4122.66 --> 4122.88] In -[4122.88 --> 4123.08] Verse -[4123.08 --> 4123.86] 20 -[4123.86 --> 4125.04] When -[4125.04 --> 4125.40] Paul -[4125.40 --> 4125.78] Says -[4125.78 --> 4126.24] But -[4126.24 --> 4126.40] Where -[4126.40 --> 4126.72] Sin -[4126.72 --> 4127.38] Increased -[4127.38 --> 4127.80] Grace -[4127.80 --> 4128.54] Increased -[4128.54 --> 4128.88] All -[4128.88 --> 4129.06] The -[4129.06 --> 4129.30] More -[4129.30 --> 4129.54] That -[4129.54 --> 4130.04] Phrase -[4130.04 --> 4130.42] Grace -[4130.42 --> 4130.98] Increased -[4130.98 --> 4131.20] All -[4131.20 --> 4131.36] The -[4131.36 --> 4131.62] More -[4131.62 --> 4132.58] Is -[4132.58 --> 4132.80] Just -[4132.80 --> 4133.16] A -[4133.16 --> 4133.40] Two -[4133.40 --> 4133.78] Word -[4133.78 --> 4134.56] Greek -[4134.56 --> 4135.12] Phrase -[4135.12 --> 4135.60] That -[4135.60 --> 4135.92] Literally -[4135.92 --> 4136.34] Means -[4136.34 --> 4136.94] Super -[4136.94 --> 4137.58] Abundant -[4137.58 --> 4138.00] Grace -[4138.00 --> 4138.78] Right -[4138.78 --> 4138.96] Or -[4138.96 --> 4139.34] Grace -[4139.34 --> 4139.94] Super -[4139.94 --> 4140.54] Abounding -[4140.54 --> 4142.20] How -[4142.20 --> 4142.54] Much -[4142.54 --> 4142.94] More -[4142.94 --> 4143.24] Will -[4143.24 --> 4143.60] Those -[4143.60 --> 4143.76] Who -[4143.76 --> 4144.28] Receive -[4144.28 --> 4144.72] God's -[4144.72 --> 4145.24] Abundant -[4145.24 --> 4145.66] Provision -[4145.66 --> 4145.92] Of -[4145.92 --> 4146.26] Grace -[4146.26 --> 4146.68] And -[4146.68 --> 4146.88] The -[4146.88 --> 4147.20] Gift -[4147.20 --> 4147.64] Of -[4147.64 --> 4148.98] Righteousness -[4148.98 --> 4150.88] And -[4150.88 --> 4150.96] So -[4150.96 --> 4151.22] There's -[4151.22 --> 4152.06] A -[4152.06 --> 4152.70] Difference -[4152.70 --> 4153.58] Right -[4153.58 --> 4153.78] That -[4153.78 --> 4154.48] In -[4154.48 --> 4154.98] Adam -[4154.98 --> 4156.24] Death -[4156.24 --> 4157.30] Reigns -[4157.30 --> 4158.08] For -[4158.08 --> 4158.40] All -[4158.40 --> 4160.10] And -[4160.10 --> 4160.30] In -[4160.30 --> 4160.72] Jesus -[4160.72 --> 4161.62] To -[4161.62 --> 4162.38] Escape -[4162.38 --> 4162.78] The -[4162.78 --> 4163.08] Reign -[4163.08 --> 4163.30] Of -[4163.30 --> 4163.64] Death -[4163.64 --> 4163.88] You -[4163.88 --> 4164.12] Must -[4164.12 --> 4164.34] Now -[4164.34 --> 4165.14] Receive -[4165.14 --> 4165.36] The -[4165.36 --> 4165.84] Super -[4165.84 --> 4166.42] Abundant -[4166.42 --> 4166.86] Provision -[4166.86 --> 4167.04] Of -[4167.04 --> 4167.42] Grace -[4167.42 --> 4168.24] Right -[4168.24 --> 4168.46] God -[4168.46 --> 4168.68] Needs -[4168.68 --> 4168.84] To -[4168.84 --> 4169.32] Apply -[4169.32 --> 4169.54] It -[4169.54 --> 4169.78] To -[4169.78 --> 4169.96] You -[4169.96 --> 4170.12] He -[4170.12 --> 4170.28] Needs -[4170.28 --> 4170.44] To -[4170.44 --> 4170.90] Give -[4170.90 --> 4171.02] It -[4171.02 --> 4171.20] To -[4171.20 --> 4171.38] You -[4171.38 --> 4171.54] You -[4171.54 --> 4171.68] Need -[4171.68 --> 4171.82] To -[4171.82 --> 4172.34] Receive -[4172.34 --> 4172.52] It -[4172.52 --> 4172.84] And -[4172.84 --> 4173.04] That -[4173.04 --> 4173.38] It -[4173.38 --> 4173.72] That -[4173.72 --> 4173.84] You -[4173.84 --> 4174.00] Need -[4174.00 --> 4174.14] To -[4174.14 --> 4174.62] Receive -[4174.62 --> 4174.90] Paul -[4174.90 --> 4175.20] Says -[4175.20 --> 4175.40] Is -[4175.40 --> 4175.60] The -[4175.60 --> 4176.12] Gift -[4176.12 --> 4176.88] Of -[4176.88 --> 4177.70] Righteousness -[4177.70 --> 4178.76] And -[4178.76 --> 4179.00] This -[4179.00 --> 4179.68] Gift -[4179.68 --> 4179.90] Of -[4179.90 --> 4180.38] Righteousness -[4181.22 --> 4181.36] Is -[4181.36 --> 4181.54] The -[4181.54 --> 4182.02] Perfect -[4182.02 --> 4183.02] Obedience -[4183.02 --> 4183.54] Of -[4183.54 --> 4183.92] Jesus -[4183.92 --> 4184.82] Right -[4184.82 --> 4185.02] It's -[4185.02 --> 4185.24] Not -[4185.24 --> 4185.64] Just -[4185.64 --> 4186.20] Enough -[4186.20 --> 4186.36] Or -[4186.36 --> 4186.48] It's -[4186.48 --> 4186.62] Not -[4186.62 --> 4187.02] Enough -[4187.02 --> 4187.24] That -[4187.24 --> 4187.52] Jesus -[4187.52 --> 4188.24] Died -[4188.24 --> 4188.44] On -[4188.44 --> 4188.56] The -[4188.56 --> 4188.94] Cross -[4188.94 --> 4189.24] That's -[4189.24 --> 4189.64] Half -[4189.64 --> 4189.86] Of -[4189.86 --> 4190.00] The -[4190.00 --> 4190.38] Story -[4190.38 --> 4190.66] Right -[4190.66 --> 4190.82] That -[4190.82 --> 4190.94] He -[4190.94 --> 4191.52] He -[4191.52 --> 4191.72] Needs -[4191.72 --> 4191.94] To -[4191.94 --> 4192.38] Bear -[4192.38 --> 4192.58] The -[4192.58 --> 4193.00] Punishment -[4193.00 --> 4193.24] For -[4193.24 --> 4193.44] Our -[4193.44 --> 4193.68] Sin -[4193.68 --> 4194.10] But -[4194.10 --> 4194.26] The -[4194.26 --> 4194.50] Other -[4194.50 --> 4194.82] Half -[4194.82 --> 4194.98] Of -[4194.98 --> 4195.12] That -[4195.12 --> 4195.46] Same -[4195.46 --> 4195.88] Story -[4195.88 --> 4196.04] The -[4196.04 --> 4196.20] Other -[4196.20 --> 4196.48] Half -[4196.48 --> 4196.64] Of -[4196.64 --> 4196.78] That -[4196.78 --> 4197.22] Requirement -[4197.22 --> 4197.44] Is -[4197.44 --> 4197.56] That -[4197.56 --> 4197.68] We -[4197.68 --> 4197.98] Need -[4197.98 --> 4198.18] His -[4198.18 --> 4198.68] Perfect -[4198.68 --> 4199.54] Righteousness -[4199.54 --> 4199.76] We -[4199.76 --> 4199.96] Need -[4199.96 --> 4200.12] His -[4200.12 --> 4200.48] Perfect -[4200.48 --> 4201.36] Obedience -[4201.36 --> 4201.60] We -[4201.60 --> 4201.94] Need -[4201.94 --> 4202.16] His -[4202.16 --> 4202.56] Life -[4202.56 --> 4203.28] Lived -[4203.28 --> 4203.60] In -[4203.60 --> 4204.06] Our -[4204.06 --> 4204.86] Place -[4204.86 --> 4205.72] Perfectly -[4205.72 --> 4206.34] Keeping -[4206.34 --> 4206.62] The -[4206.62 --> 4206.92] Law -[4206.92 --> 4207.20] As -[4207.20 --> 4207.44] Our -[4207.44 --> 4207.80] Federal -[4207.80 --> 4208.02] Head -[4208.02 --> 4208.18] So -[4208.18 --> 4208.30] That -[4208.30 --> 4208.38] He -[4208.38 --> 4208.54] Could -[4208.54 --> 4209.14] Give -[4209.14 --> 4209.48] That -[4209.48 --> 4210.06] To -[4210.06 --> 4210.28] Us -[4210.28 --> 4210.74] Both -[4210.74 --> 4211.04] Are -[4211.04 --> 4211.74] Necessary -[4211.74 --> 4211.94] And -[4211.94 --> 4212.80] Both -[4212.80 --> 4213.12] Paul -[4213.12 --> 4213.52] Says -[4213.52 --> 4213.74] Are -[4213.74 --> 4214.20] Here -[4214.20 --> 4214.90] In -[4214.90 --> 4215.64] Jesus -[4215.64 --> 4217.86] In -[4217.86 --> 4218.04] Chapter -[4218.04 --> 4218.40] 4 -[4218.40 --> 4219.42] We -[4219.42 --> 4219.64] Can -[4219.64 --> 4219.84] See -[4219.84 --> 4220.04] That -[4220.04 --> 4220.96] Righteousness -[4220.96 --> 4221.22] Is -[4221.22 --> 4221.88] Credited -[4221.88 --> 4222.16] To -[4222.16 --> 4222.52] You -[4222.52 --> 4223.04] Is -[4223.04 --> 4223.26] Given -[4223.26 --> 4223.48] To -[4223.48 --> 4223.72] You -[4223.72 --> 4223.98] Is -[4223.98 --> 4225.40] Appropriated -[4225.40 --> 4225.70] By -[4225.70 --> 4226.14] You -[4226.14 --> 4226.74] Through -[4226.74 --> 4227.54] Faith -[4227.54 --> 4229.44] And -[4229.44 --> 4229.84] Faith -[4229.84 --> 4230.12] Is -[4230.12 --> 4231.36] Believing -[4231.36 --> 4231.70] In -[4231.70 --> 4231.84] The -[4231.84 --> 4232.20] Person -[4232.20 --> 4232.50] And -[4232.50 --> 4232.62] The -[4232.62 --> 4232.84] Work -[4232.84 --> 4233.08] Of -[4233.08 --> 4233.42] Jesus -[4233.42 --> 4234.26] And -[4234.26 --> 4234.74] Trusting -[4234.74 --> 4235.06] God's -[4235.06 --> 4235.54] Promises -[4235.54 --> 4235.80] In -[4235.80 --> 4235.94] The -[4235.94 --> 4236.36] Gospel -[4236.36 --> 4236.68] And -[4236.68 --> 4236.80] In -[4236.80 --> 4236.96] His -[4236.96 --> 4237.32] Word -[4237.32 --> 4237.88] As -[4237.88 --> 4238.22] True -[4238.22 --> 4239.68] And -[4239.68 --> 4239.78] So -[4239.78 --> 4239.94] This -[4239.94 --> 4240.48] Contrast -[4240.48 --> 4241.06] Continues -[4241.06 --> 4241.28] Right -[4241.28 --> 4241.42] That -[4241.42 --> 4241.74] Because -[4241.74 --> 4241.92] Of -[4241.92 --> 4242.16] Adam -[4242.16 --> 4242.40] All -[4242.40 --> 4242.70] People -[4242.70 --> 4243.02] Fell -[4243.02 --> 4243.24] Into -[4243.24 --> 4244.00] Disobedience -[4244.00 --> 4244.50] And -[4244.50 --> 4244.78] Death -[4244.78 --> 4244.96] And -[4244.96 --> 4245.06] Then -[4245.06 --> 4245.22] The -[4245.22 --> 4245.60] Only -[4245.60 --> 4245.96] Way -[4245.96 --> 4246.14] To -[4246.14 --> 4246.30] Be -[4246.30 --> 4246.78] Lifted -[4246.78 --> 4247.02] Out -[4247.02 --> 4247.16] Of -[4247.16 --> 4247.88] Disobedience -[4247.88 --> 4248.08] And -[4248.08 --> 4248.32] Death -[4248.32 --> 4248.54] Is -[4248.54 --> 4248.72] To -[4248.72 --> 4249.40] Receive -[4249.40 --> 4250.60] Righteousness -[4250.60 --> 4250.92] Through -[4250.92 --> 4251.36] Faith -[4251.36 --> 4251.62] By -[4251.62 --> 4251.80] The -[4251.80 --> 4252.08] Grace -[4252.08 --> 4252.26] Of -[4252.26 --> 4252.54] God -[4252.54 --> 4252.70] That -[4252.70 --> 4253.08] You -[4253.08 --> 4253.32] Must -[4253.32 --> 4253.82] Believe -[4253.82 --> 4254.62] And -[4254.62 --> 4254.76] Then -[4254.76 --> 4254.98] That -[4254.98 --> 4255.70] Believing -[4255.70 --> 4256.40] Changes -[4256.40 --> 4257.36] Everything -[4257.36 --> 4259.04] Right -[4259.04 --> 4259.34] Still -[4259.34 --> 4259.68] Still -[4262.84 --> 4263.28] How much -[4263.28 --> 4263.62] More -[4263.62 --> 4263.86] Will -[4263.86 --> 4264.24] Those -[4264.24 --> 4264.60] Who -[4264.60 --> 4265.54] Receive -[4265.54 --> 4266.02] God's -[4266.02 --> 4266.46] Abundant -[4266.46 --> 4266.86] Provision -[4266.86 --> 4267.10] Of -[4267.10 --> 4267.42] Grace -[4267.42 --> 4267.62] And -[4267.62 --> 4267.76] The -[4267.76 --> 4268.04] Gift -[4268.04 --> 4268.34] Of -[4268.34 --> 4268.98] Righteousness -[4268.98 --> 4269.64] Reign -[4269.64 --> 4270.06] In -[4270.06 --> 4270.80] Life -[4270.80 --> 4273.68] Reign -[4273.68 --> 4274.00] In -[4274.00 --> 4274.82] Life -[4274.82 --> 4275.30] Notice -[4275.30 --> 4275.86] Carefully -[4275.86 --> 4276.38] The -[4276.38 --> 4276.88] Contrast -[4276.88 --> 4277.08] Because -[4277.08 --> 4277.22] It's -[4277.22 --> 4277.62] Continuing -[4277.62 --> 4277.94] Right -[4277.94 --> 4278.38] And -[4278.38 --> 4278.70] In -[4278.70 --> 4279.22] Adam -[4279.22 --> 4280.46] What -[4280.46 --> 4280.92] Reigns -[4280.92 --> 4282.82] Death -[4282.82 --> 4284.02] Death -[4284.02 --> 4284.58] Reigns -[4284.58 --> 4285.96] Right -[4285.96 --> 4286.32] It is -[4286.32 --> 4287.24] Impersonal -[4287.24 --> 4287.60] And -[4287.60 --> 4287.88] It is -[4287.88 --> 4288.12] Quite -[4288.12 --> 4288.56] Literally -[4288.56 --> 4289.78] Dehumanizing -[4289.78 --> 4292.28] But -[4292.28 --> 4292.82] Jesus -[4292.82 --> 4293.70] Changes -[4293.70 --> 4294.12] The -[4294.12 --> 4294.86] Subject -[4294.86 --> 4296.64] Right -[4296.64 --> 4297.00] It goes -[4297.00 --> 4297.22] From -[4297.22 --> 4297.62] Death -[4297.62 --> 4298.28] Reigning -[4298.28 --> 4298.92] And -[4298.92 --> 4299.70] Adam -[4299.70 --> 4300.86] To -[4300.86 --> 4301.18] You -[4301.18 --> 4301.44] Who -[4301.44 --> 4302.04] Believe -[4302.04 --> 4303.20] Reigning -[4303.20 --> 4303.66] In -[4303.66 --> 4304.14] Life -[4304.14 --> 4304.40] Through -[4304.40 --> 4304.78] Jesus -[4304.78 --> 4305.32] Christ -[4305.32 --> 4306.28] Right -[4306.28 --> 4306.50] In -[4306.50 --> 4307.28] Adam -[4307.28 --> 4307.52] Is -[4307.52 --> 4308.06] Bondage -[4308.06 --> 4308.30] And -[4308.30 --> 4308.80] Slavery -[4308.80 --> 4309.10] And -[4309.10 --> 4309.38] In -[4309.38 --> 4309.96] Christ -[4309.96 --> 4310.54] Is -[4310.54 --> 4311.28] Freedom -[4311.28 --> 4312.68] We -[4312.68 --> 4312.90] Don't -[4312.90 --> 4313.22] Trade -[4313.22 --> 4313.58] One -[4313.58 --> 4314.14] Slavery -[4314.14 --> 4314.56] For -[4314.56 --> 4315.30] Another -[4315.30 --> 4315.66] In -[4315.66 --> 4316.22] Christ -[4316.22 --> 4316.84] We -[4316.84 --> 4317.44] Reign -[4317.44 --> 4317.88] In -[4317.88 --> 4318.38] Christ -[4318.38 --> 4318.58] We -[4318.58 --> 4318.94] Become -[4318.94 --> 4319.36] Kings -[4319.36 --> 4319.92] And -[4319.92 --> 4320.40] Queens -[4320.40 --> 4321.94] Tim -[4321.94 --> 4322.24] Keller -[4322.24 --> 4322.60] Puts -[4322.60 --> 4322.74] It -[4322.74 --> 4323.14] Plainly -[4323.14 --> 4323.28] He -[4323.28 --> 4323.50] Says -[4323.50 --> 4324.38] Christ -[4324.38 --> 4325.24] Kingship -[4325.24 --> 4325.64] Makes -[4325.64 --> 4326.04] Us -[4326.04 --> 4326.72] Kings -[4326.72 --> 4327.60] Sin -[4327.60 --> 4328.60] Kingship -[4328.60 --> 4329.22] Makes -[4329.22 --> 4329.82] Us -[4329.82 --> 4330.82] Slaves -[4330.82 --> 4334.02] That's -[4334.02 --> 4334.24] The -[4334.24 --> 4334.86] Difference -[4334.86 --> 4335.58] The -[4335.58 --> 4335.92] Right -[4335.92 --> 4336.48] Head -[4336.48 --> 4337.44] Makes -[4337.44 --> 4338.78] In -[4338.78 --> 4339.26] Adam -[4339.26 --> 4339.92] Death -[4339.92 --> 4340.74] Reigns -[4340.74 --> 4341.90] For -[4341.90 --> 4342.20] Those -[4342.20 --> 4342.36] Who -[4342.36 --> 4342.68] Believe -[4342.68 --> 4342.90] For -[4342.90 --> 4343.18] Those -[4343.18 --> 4343.34] Who -[4343.34 --> 4343.50] Are -[4343.50 --> 4343.76] In -[4343.76 --> 4344.26] Christ -[4344.26 --> 4345.08] Jesus -[4345.08 --> 4345.86] Right -[4345.86 --> 4345.98] For -[4345.98 --> 4346.20] Those -[4346.20 --> 4346.34] Who -[4346.34 --> 4346.48] Are -[4346.48 --> 4347.02] United -[4347.02 --> 4347.42] To -[4347.42 --> 4347.72] Him -[4347.72 --> 4347.96] By -[4347.96 --> 4348.32] Grace -[4348.32 --> 4348.62] Through -[4348.62 --> 4348.96] Faith -[4348.96 --> 4349.58] You -[4349.58 --> 4350.24] Reign -[4350.24 --> 4350.88] Because -[4350.88 --> 4351.60] He -[4351.60 --> 4352.16] Reigns -[4352.16 --> 4354.90] And -[4354.90 --> 4355.18] This -[4355.18 --> 4355.50] Working -[4355.50 --> 4355.84] Itself -[4355.84 --> 4356.02] Out -[4356.02 --> 4356.18] Is -[4356.18 --> 4356.38] One -[4356.38 --> 4356.50] Of -[4356.50 --> 4356.62] The -[4356.62 --> 4356.90] Things -[4356.90 --> 4357.14] That -[4357.14 --> 4357.92] So -[4357.92 --> 4358.26] Many -[4358.26 --> 4358.70] People -[4358.70 --> 4359.40] Get -[4359.40 --> 4359.92] Wrong -[4359.92 --> 4360.54] About -[4360.54 --> 4361.16] Christianity -[4361.16 --> 4361.44] Or -[4361.44 --> 4361.56] What -[4361.56 --> 4361.68] It -[4361.68 --> 4362.02] Means -[4362.02 --> 4362.56] To -[4362.56 --> 4362.96] Live -[4362.96 --> 4364.14] Christianly -[4364.14 --> 4365.54] Right -[4365.54 --> 4365.72] So -[4365.72 --> 4365.94] Many -[4365.94 --> 4366.36] People -[4366.36 --> 4366.82] Come -[4366.82 --> 4367.24] To -[4367.24 --> 4368.00] Christianity -[4368.00 --> 4368.54] With -[4368.54 --> 4368.82] This -[4368.82 --> 4370.20] Preconceived -[4370.20 --> 4370.70] Idea -[4370.70 --> 4371.80] That -[4371.80 --> 4372.62] If -[4372.62 --> 4372.80] We -[4372.80 --> 4373.20] Believe -[4373.20 --> 4373.58] If -[4373.58 --> 4373.72] We -[4373.72 --> 4374.04] Profess -[4374.04 --> 4374.22] To -[4374.22 --> 4374.42] Have -[4374.42 --> 4374.70] This -[4374.70 --> 4375.26] Faith -[4375.26 --> 4375.60] That -[4375.60 --> 4375.96] Means -[4375.96 --> 4376.24] We -[4376.24 --> 4376.54] Don't -[4376.54 --> 4376.72] Get -[4376.72 --> 4376.84] To -[4376.84 --> 4377.04] Have -[4377.04 --> 4377.40] Fun -[4377.40 --> 4379.56] Right -[4379.56 --> 4379.68] It -[4379.68 --> 4379.92] Means -[4379.92 --> 4380.10] You -[4380.10 --> 4380.28] Don't -[4380.28 --> 4380.42] Get -[4380.42 --> 4380.56] To -[4380.56 --> 4380.78] Do -[4380.78 --> 4380.98] The -[4380.98 --> 4381.28] Kinds -[4381.28 --> 4381.38] Of -[4381.38 --> 4381.64] Things -[4381.64 --> 4381.82] That -[4381.82 --> 4382.00] Give -[4382.00 --> 4382.12] You -[4382.12 --> 4382.62] Joy -[4382.62 --> 4383.26] And -[4383.26 --> 4383.64] That -[4383.64 --> 4383.92] Fill -[4383.92 --> 4384.12] You -[4384.12 --> 4384.40] Up -[4384.40 --> 4385.36] Right -[4385.36 --> 4385.52] That -[4385.52 --> 4386.20] Christianity -[4386.20 --> 4386.62] That -[4386.62 --> 4387.20] That -[4387.20 --> 4387.60] Christian -[4387.60 --> 4388.22] Belief -[4388.22 --> 4388.56] Is -[4388.56 --> 4388.82] A -[4388.82 --> 4389.18] Form -[4389.18 --> 4389.48] Of -[4389.48 --> 4390.18] Bondage -[4390.18 --> 4392.14] Instead -[4392.14 --> 4392.94] Though -[4392.94 --> 4393.60] The -[4393.60 --> 4394.18] Truth -[4394.18 --> 4394.40] Of -[4394.40 --> 4394.56] The -[4394.56 --> 4395.00] Gospel -[4395.00 --> 4395.28] Is -[4395.28 --> 4395.44] That -[4395.44 --> 4396.04] Apart -[4396.04 --> 4396.70] From -[4396.70 --> 4397.34] Christ -[4397.34 --> 4397.90] You -[4397.90 --> 4398.06] Are -[4398.06 --> 4398.26] In -[4398.26 --> 4398.80] Slavery -[4398.80 --> 4400.50] Apart -[4400.50 --> 4400.98] From -[4400.98 --> 4401.42] Christ -[4401.42 --> 4401.66] You -[4401.66 --> 4401.78] Are -[4401.78 --> 4401.96] In -[4401.96 --> 4402.48] Bondage -[4402.48 --> 4402.64] To -[4402.64 --> 4402.76] The -[4402.76 --> 4403.04] Way -[4403.04 --> 4403.28] Of -[4403.28 --> 4403.64] Seeing -[4403.64 --> 4404.14] And -[4404.14 --> 4404.44] Being -[4404.44 --> 4404.64] In -[4404.64 --> 4404.76] The -[4404.76 --> 4405.02] World -[4405.02 --> 4405.20] That -[4405.20 --> 4405.34] Is -[4405.34 --> 4405.60] Rooted -[4405.60 --> 4405.84] In -[4405.84 --> 4406.18] Sin -[4406.18 --> 4406.38] And -[4406.38 --> 4406.52] The -[4406.52 --> 4406.78] Reigning -[4406.78 --> 4407.02] Of -[4407.02 --> 4407.36] Death -[4407.36 --> 4408.16] The -[4408.16 --> 4408.56] Problem -[4408.56 --> 4409.08] Is -[4409.08 --> 4409.60] You -[4409.60 --> 4410.02] Can't -[4410.02 --> 4410.32] See -[4410.32 --> 4410.64] It -[4410.64 --> 4412.32] The -[4412.32 --> 4412.68] Problem -[4412.68 --> 4413.06] Is -[4413.06 --> 4413.24] The -[4413.24 --> 4413.80] Particular -[4413.80 --> 4416.04] Slavery -[4416.04 --> 4417.14] That -[4417.14 --> 4417.32] We -[4417.32 --> 4417.50] Are -[4417.50 --> 4417.78] Under -[4417.78 --> 4418.04] Is -[4418.04 --> 4418.50] So -[4418.50 --> 4419.28] Familiar -[4419.28 --> 4419.56] To -[4419.56 --> 4419.92] You -[4419.92 --> 4420.46] That -[4420.46 --> 4420.66] When -[4420.66 --> 4420.84] You -[4420.84 --> 4421.22] See -[4421.22 --> 4421.76] Something -[4421.76 --> 4422.32] That -[4422.32 --> 4422.56] Looks -[4422.56 --> 4422.84] Like -[4422.84 --> 4423.26] Freedom -[4423.26 --> 4423.56] That -[4423.56 --> 4423.90] Jesus -[4423.90 --> 4424.56] Offers -[4424.56 --> 4425.00] It -[4425.00 --> 4425.30] Doesn't -[4425.30 --> 4425.50] Make -[4425.50 --> 4425.94] Sense -[4425.94 --> 4426.86] There's -[4426.86 --> 4427.02] No -[4427.02 --> 4427.42] Mental -[4427.42 --> 4428.14] Category -[4428.14 --> 4428.76] To -[4428.76 --> 4429.34] Wrap -[4429.34 --> 4429.50] Your -[4429.50 --> 4429.82] Mind -[4429.82 --> 4430.18] Around -[4430.18 --> 4430.38] And -[4430.38 --> 4430.50] To -[4430.50 --> 4430.96] Understand -[4430.96 --> 4431.42] It -[4431.42 --> 4432.80] Part -[4432.80 --> 4432.90] Of -[4432.90 --> 4433.02] The -[4433.02 --> 4433.44] Impact -[4433.44 --> 4433.64] Of -[4433.64 --> 4433.90] Being -[4433.90 --> 4434.14] In -[4434.14 --> 4434.52] Adam -[4434.52 --> 4434.78] Is -[4434.78 --> 4434.94] That -[4434.94 --> 4435.08] We -[4435.08 --> 4435.26] Will -[4435.26 --> 4435.96] Always -[4435.96 --> 4436.58] Choose -[4436.58 --> 4437.14] The -[4437.14 --> 4437.80] Familiar -[4437.80 --> 4438.62] Bondage -[4438.62 --> 4439.98] We -[4439.98 --> 4440.16] Will -[4440.16 --> 4440.62] Always -[4440.62 --> 4441.04] Choose -[4441.04 --> 4441.24] The -[4441.24 --> 4441.60] Familiar -[4441.60 --> 4442.24] Slavery -[4442.24 --> 4442.86] We -[4442.86 --> 4443.02] Will -[4443.02 --> 4443.42] Always -[4443.42 --> 4443.78] Choose -[4443.78 --> 4444.00] The -[4444.00 --> 4444.36] Familiar -[4444.36 --> 4444.84] Sin -[4444.84 --> 4445.60] If -[4445.60 --> 4446.16] Only -[4446.16 --> 4446.62] Because -[4446.62 --> 4447.56] That's -[4447.56 --> 4447.94] What's -[4447.94 --> 4448.34] Known -[4448.34 --> 4448.60] To -[4448.60 --> 4449.00] Us -[4449.00 --> 4451.52] In -[4451.52 --> 4451.54] In -[4451.54 --> 4451.56] In -[4451.56 --> 4451.58] In -[4451.58 --> 4453.88] In -[4453.88 --> 4455.06] In -[4455.06 --> 4455.96] Today's -[4455.96 --> 4456.56] World -[4456.56 --> 4456.82] We -[4456.82 --> 4457.12] Talk -[4457.12 --> 4457.46] About -[4457.46 --> 4458.38] Freedoms -[4458.38 --> 4459.88] But -[4459.88 --> 4460.02] The -[4460.02 --> 4460.28] Truth -[4460.28 --> 4460.86] Is -[4460.86 --> 4461.52] When -[4461.52 --> 4461.68] It -[4461.68 --> 4461.98] Comes -[4461.98 --> 4462.24] To -[4462.24 --> 4462.70] Sin -[4462.70 --> 4463.58] We're -[4463.58 --> 4464.02] Not -[4464.02 --> 4464.60] Free -[4464.60 --> 4465.80] We -[4465.80 --> 4465.98] Don't -[4465.98 --> 4466.14] Even -[4466.14 --> 4466.34] Know -[4466.34 --> 4466.52] What -[4466.52 --> 4466.84] Freedom -[4466.84 --> 4467.28] Is -[4467.28 --> 4468.80] But -[4468.80 --> 4469.02] That's -[4469.02 --> 4469.54] Exactly -[4469.54 --> 4469.84] What -[4469.84 --> 4470.16] Jesus -[4470.16 --> 4470.76] Offers -[4470.76 --> 4471.68] The -[4471.68 --> 4471.92] Very -[4471.92 --> 4472.46] Freedom -[4472.46 --> 4472.78] That -[4472.78 --> 4472.96] You -[4472.96 --> 4473.18] Were -[4473.18 --> 4473.82] Made -[4473.82 --> 4474.22] For -[4474.22 --> 4474.78] The -[4474.78 --> 4475.00] Very -[4475.00 --> 4475.42] Freedom -[4475.42 --> 4475.64] That -[4475.64 --> 4475.78] Can -[4475.78 --> 4476.14] Only -[4476.14 --> 4476.58] Come -[4476.58 --> 4476.90] From -[4476.90 --> 4477.30] Being -[4477.30 --> 4478.00] Friends -[4478.00 --> 4478.58] With -[4478.58 --> 4479.34] God -[4479.34 --> 4482.22] Lastly -[4482.22 --> 4483.40] I want -[4483.40 --> 4483.48] You -[4483.48 --> 4483.54] To -[4483.54 --> 4483.68] Look -[4483.68 --> 4483.80] At -[4483.80 --> 4484.04] Verse -[4484.04 --> 4485.04] 20 -[4485.04 --> 4487.40] Verse -[4487.40 --> 4487.68] 20 -[4487.68 --> 4487.98] Where -[4487.98 --> 4488.40] Sin -[4488.40 --> 4489.22] Increased -[4489.22 --> 4489.74] Grace -[4489.74 --> 4490.52] Increased -[4490.52 --> 4490.84] All -[4490.84 --> 4491.02] The -[4491.02 --> 4491.36] More -[4491.36 --> 4492.28] Grace -[4492.28 --> 4492.84] Super -[4492.84 --> 4493.40] Abounded -[4493.40 --> 4495.70] Where -[4495.70 --> 4495.98] Sin -[4495.98 --> 4496.60] Increased -[4496.60 --> 4497.04] Grace -[4497.04 --> 4497.74] Increased -[4497.74 --> 4498.42] All -[4498.42 --> 4498.56] The -[4498.56 --> 4498.76] More -[4498.76 --> 4499.06] At -[4499.06 --> 4499.26] The -[4499.26 --> 4499.78] Cross -[4499.78 --> 4501.12] We -[4501.12 --> 4501.60] See -[4501.60 --> 4503.24] The -[4503.24 --> 4503.90] Worst -[4503.90 --> 4505.34] Sin -[4505.34 --> 4506.40] That -[4506.40 --> 4507.18] Humanity -[4507.18 --> 4507.92] Can -[4507.92 --> 4508.50] Muster -[4508.50 --> 4510.08] At -[4510.08 --> 4510.24] The -[4510.24 --> 4510.76] Cross -[4510.76 --> 4512.54] Humanity -[4512.54 --> 4512.96] All -[4512.96 --> 4513.16] Of -[4513.16 --> 4513.58] Us -[4513.58 --> 4514.32] Together -[4514.32 --> 4516.20] Crucified -[4516.20 --> 4516.74] And -[4516.74 --> 4517.28] Killed -[4517.28 --> 4518.50] God -[4518.50 --> 4519.92] Each -[4519.92 --> 4520.14] One -[4520.14 --> 4520.26] Of -[4520.26 --> 4520.50] Us -[4520.50 --> 4521.28] Responsible -[4521.28 --> 4521.54] The -[4521.54 --> 4521.88] Lord -[4521.88 --> 4522.56] Is -[4522.56 --> 4523.68] Crucified -[4523.68 --> 4525.20] But -[4525.20 --> 4525.38] At -[4525.38 --> 4525.54] The -[4525.54 --> 4526.12] Cross -[4526.12 --> 4527.40] At -[4527.40 --> 4527.62] The -[4527.62 --> 4528.20] Cross -[4528.20 --> 4528.44] We -[4528.44 --> 4528.90] See -[4528.90 --> 4529.38] That -[4529.38 --> 4529.66] Even -[4529.66 --> 4529.92] The -[4529.92 --> 4530.36] Worst -[4530.36 --> 4530.64] That -[4530.64 --> 4531.22] Humanity -[4531.22 --> 4531.48] Can -[4531.48 --> 4531.74] Do -[4531.74 --> 4532.00] In -[4532.00 --> 4532.96] Killing -[4532.96 --> 4533.34] The -[4533.34 --> 4533.70] One -[4533.70 --> 4533.98] Who -[4533.98 --> 4534.44] Made -[4534.44 --> 4534.80] Us -[4534.80 --> 4534.94] And -[4534.94 --> 4535.08] Who -[4535.08 --> 4535.32] Made -[4535.32 --> 4535.58] Us -[4535.58 --> 4535.82] For -[4535.82 --> 4536.24] Himself -[4536.24 --> 4536.84] Even -[4536.84 --> 4537.06] The -[4537.06 --> 4537.38] Worst -[4537.38 --> 4537.54] That -[4537.54 --> 4537.70] We -[4537.70 --> 4537.86] Can -[4537.86 --> 4538.04] Do -[4538.04 --> 4538.84] Cannot -[4538.84 --> 4539.50] Stop -[4539.50 --> 4540.40] God's -[4540.40 --> 4540.76] Plan -[4540.76 --> 4540.96] Of -[4540.96 --> 4541.44] Redemption -[4541.44 --> 4543.18] God's -[4543.18 --> 4543.62] Salvation -[4543.62 --> 4543.98] Will -[4543.98 --> 4544.24] Not -[4544.24 --> 4544.50] Be -[4544.50 --> 4545.16] Stopped -[4545.16 --> 4545.30] So -[4545.30 --> 4545.48] Where -[4545.48 --> 4545.88] Sin -[4545.88 --> 4546.60] Increased -[4546.60 --> 4547.22] Grace -[4547.22 --> 4547.98] Super -[4547.98 --> 4548.56] Abounded -[4548.56 --> 4550.06] God's -[4550.06 --> 4550.40] Grace -[4550.40 --> 4551.24] Overwhelms -[4551.24 --> 4551.72] Even -[4551.72 --> 4552.28] The -[4552.28 --> 4553.08] Worst -[4553.08 --> 4553.82] Sin -[4553.82 --> 4555.42] At -[4555.42 --> 4555.60] The -[4555.60 --> 4556.02] Cross -[4556.02 --> 4556.52] Grace -[4556.52 --> 4557.14] Defeats -[4557.14 --> 4557.76] Sin -[4557.76 --> 4558.54] And -[4558.54 --> 4559.24] Life -[4559.24 --> 4559.96] Wins -[4559.96 --> 4560.18] Wins -[4560.18 --> 4560.98] Over -[4560.98 --> 4561.88] Death -[4561.88 --> 4562.10] And -[4562.10 --> 4562.24] If -[4562.24 --> 4562.36] You -[4562.36 --> 4562.68] Need -[4562.68 --> 4562.88] To -[4562.88 --> 4563.20] See -[4563.20 --> 4563.46] Or -[4563.46 --> 4563.74] Know -[4563.74 --> 4564.20] How -[4564.20 --> 4564.48] That -[4564.48 --> 4564.74] Is -[4564.74 --> 4565.10] True -[4565.10 --> 4566.98] Look -[4566.98 --> 4567.08] At -[4567.08 --> 4567.18] The -[4567.18 --> 4567.44] Empty -[4567.44 --> 4567.74] Tomb -[4567.74 --> 4569.50] Death -[4569.50 --> 4569.84] Hold -[4569.84 --> 4570.10] No -[4570.10 --> 4570.62] Sway -[4570.62 --> 4571.06] Over -[4571.06 --> 4571.42] Him -[4571.42 --> 4571.74] Any -[4571.74 --> 4572.30] Longer -[4572.30 --> 4573.04] Death -[4573.04 --> 4573.30] No -[4573.30 --> 4573.80] Longer -[4573.80 --> 4574.50] Reigns -[4574.50 --> 4574.88] He -[4574.88 --> 4575.60] Is -[4575.60 --> 4576.48] Victorious -[4576.48 --> 4576.72] Now -[4576.72 --> 4576.88] What -[4576.88 --> 4577.04] That -[4577.04 --> 4577.30] Means -[4577.30 --> 4577.92] Practically -[4577.92 --> 4578.16] For -[4578.16 --> 4578.38] You -[4578.38 --> 4578.68] Right -[4578.68 --> 4578.96] Now -[4578.96 --> 4580.12] Is -[4580.12 --> 4580.30] That -[4580.30 --> 4580.50] There -[4580.50 --> 4580.78] Is -[4580.78 --> 4581.30] No -[4581.30 --> 4582.08] Sin -[4582.08 --> 4582.82] There -[4582.82 --> 4583.08] Is -[4583.08 --> 4583.38] No -[4583.38 --> 4583.92] Sin -[4583.92 --> 4584.42] That -[4584.42 --> 4584.64] You -[4584.64 --> 4585.02] Commit -[4585.02 --> 4585.20] That -[4585.20 --> 4585.46] Puts -[4585.46 --> 4585.66] You -[4585.66 --> 4586.24] Beyond -[4586.24 --> 4586.50] The -[4586.50 --> 4586.82] Grace -[4586.82 --> 4587.06] Of -[4587.06 --> 4587.40] God -[4587.40 --> 4588.80] It -[4588.80 --> 4589.08] Doesn't -[4589.08 --> 4589.34] Matter -[4589.34 --> 4589.56] If -[4589.56 --> 4589.72] In -[4589.72 --> 4589.84] The -[4589.84 --> 4590.16] Past -[4590.16 --> 4590.38] You -[4590.38 --> 4590.56] Were -[4590.56 --> 4590.80] A -[4590.80 --> 4591.30] Murderer -[4591.30 --> 4592.18] It -[4592.18 --> 4592.46] Doesn't -[4592.46 --> 4592.70] Matter -[4592.70 --> 4592.98] If -[4592.98 --> 4593.30] You -[4593.30 --> 4593.50] Have -[4593.50 --> 4594.10] Committed -[4594.10 --> 4594.72] Adultery -[4594.72 --> 4594.92] It -[4594.92 --> 4595.22] Doesn't -[4595.22 --> 4595.44] Matter -[4595.44 --> 4595.64] If -[4595.64 --> 4595.76] You -[4595.76 --> 4595.90] Have -[4595.90 --> 4596.22] Spent -[4596.22 --> 4596.40] Your -[4596.40 --> 4596.74] Life -[4596.74 --> 4597.42] Worshipping -[4597.42 --> 4598.10] Pagan -[4598.10 --> 4598.72] Gods -[4598.72 --> 4598.90] It -[4598.90 --> 4599.18] Doesn't -[4599.18 --> 4599.42] Matter -[4599.42 --> 4599.60] If -[4599.60 --> 4599.72] You -[4599.72 --> 4599.86] Are -[4599.86 --> 4600.14] Addicted -[4600.14 --> 4600.36] To -[4600.36 --> 4600.96] Pornography -[4600.96 --> 4601.46] If -[4601.46 --> 4601.56] You -[4601.56 --> 4601.68] Are -[4601.68 --> 4601.96] Addicted -[4601.96 --> 4602.16] To -[4602.16 --> 4602.66] Cocaine -[4602.66 --> 4603.04] If -[4603.04 --> 4603.16] You -[4603.16 --> 4603.30] Are -[4603.30 --> 4603.60] Addicted -[4603.60 --> 4603.80] To -[4603.80 --> 4604.18] Alcohol -[4604.18 --> 4604.60] It -[4604.60 --> 4604.94] Doesn't -[4604.94 --> 4605.20] Matter -[4605.20 --> 4605.42] If -[4605.42 --> 4605.60] You -[4605.60 --> 4605.86] Think -[4605.86 --> 4606.32] So -[4606.32 --> 4606.58] Little -[4606.58 --> 4606.84] Of -[4606.84 --> 4607.24] Yourself -[4607.24 --> 4607.42] That -[4607.42 --> 4607.52] You -[4607.52 --> 4607.84] Believe -[4607.84 --> 4608.20] yourself -[4608.20 --> 4608.64] To -[4617.40 --> 4617.62] Son -[4617.62 --> 4618.04] And -[4618.04 --> 4618.34] Daughter -[4618.34 --> 4618.56] By -[4618.56 --> 4618.92] Grace -[4618.92 --> 4619.34] Through -[4619.34 --> 4619.64] Faith -[4619.64 --> 4619.84] The -[4619.84 --> 4620.12] Truth -[4620.12 --> 4620.30] Of -[4620.30 --> 4620.42] The -[4620.42 --> 4620.76] Gospel -[4620.76 --> 4621.02] Is -[4621.02 --> 4621.18] That -[4621.18 --> 4621.42] You -[4621.42 --> 4621.70] Are -[4621.70 --> 4622.08] Set -[4622.08 --> 4622.66] Free -[4622.66 --> 4623.20] From -[4623.20 --> 4623.72] Slavery -[4623.72 --> 4623.96] To -[4623.96 --> 4624.22] Those -[4624.22 --> 4624.52] Things -[4624.52 --> 4624.90] You -[4624.90 --> 4625.00] Are -[4625.00 --> 4625.14] Not -[4625.14 --> 4625.68] Defined -[4625.68 --> 4625.88] By -[4625.88 --> 4626.16] Those -[4626.16 --> 4626.88] Sins -[4626.88 --> 4627.12] Of -[4627.12 --> 4627.26] Your -[4627.26 --> 4627.70] Past -[4627.70 --> 4628.18] If -[4628.18 --> 4628.42] By -[4628.42 --> 4628.72] Grace -[4628.72 --> 4628.96] Through -[4628.96 --> 4629.26] Faith -[4629.26 --> 4629.66] You -[4629.66 --> 4630.00] Believe -[4630.00 --> 4630.42] You -[4630.42 --> 4631.02] Are -[4631.02 --> 4631.84] Defined -[4631.84 --> 4632.30] By -[4632.30 --> 4633.08] Reigning -[4633.08 --> 4633.90] With -[4633.90 --> 4634.92] Jesus -[4634.92 --> 4636.02] That -[4636.02 --> 4636.22] Is -[4636.22 --> 4636.38] Who -[4636.38 --> 4636.58] You -[4636.58 --> 4636.90] Are -[4636.90 --> 4646.36] If -[4646.36 --> 4646.50] You -[4646.50 --> 4646.86] Live -[4646.86 --> 4648.36] With -[4648.36 --> 4648.62] Him -[4648.62 --> 4650.24] You -[4650.24 --> 4650.42] Will -[4650.42 --> 4650.64] Reign -[4650.64 --> 4650.86] With -[4650.86 --> 4651.08] Him -[4651.08 --> 4653.62] And -[4653.62 --> 4653.76] If -[4653.76 --> 4653.94] You -[4653.94 --> 4654.68] Live -[4654.68 --> 4655.00] With -[4655.00 --> 4655.32] Him -[4655.32 --> 4655.58] It -[4655.58 --> 4656.00] Means -[4656.00 --> 4656.46] You -[4656.46 --> 4656.70] Have -[4656.70 --> 4657.50] Died -[4657.50 --> 4657.80] With -[4657.80 --> 4658.12] Him -[4658.12 --> 4658.94] Died -[4658.94 --> 4659.22] To -[4659.22 --> 4659.56] All -[4659.56 --> 4659.80] Of -[4659.80 --> 4660.06] Those -[4660.06 --> 4660.44] Things -[4660.44 --> 4660.74] That -[4660.74 --> 4661.08] Once -[4661.08 --> 4661.78] Ruled -[4661.78 --> 4662.06] You -[4662.06 --> 4662.52] You -[4662.52 --> 4663.06] Now -[4663.06 --> 4663.50] Have -[4663.50 --> 4663.76] A -[4663.76 --> 4664.20] New -[4664.20 --> 4664.86] Way -[4664.86 --> 4665.14] Of -[4665.14 --> 4665.66] Seeing -[4665.66 --> 4666.12] And -[4666.12 --> 4666.74] Being -[4666.74 --> 4667.32] In -[4667.32 --> 4667.46] The -[4667.46 --> 4667.76] World -[4667.76 --> 4667.96] And -[4667.96 --> 4668.14] So -[4668.14 --> 4668.50] Leave -[4668.50 --> 4668.78] Those -[4668.78 --> 4669.18] Things -[4669.18 --> 4669.74] At -[4669.74 --> 4669.90] The -[4669.90 --> 4670.38] Cross -[4670.38 --> 4671.68] Leave -[4671.68 --> 4671.86] Them -[4671.86 --> 4672.34] Behind -[4672.34 --> 4673.30] Or -[4673.30 --> 4673.44] They -[4673.44 --> 4673.68] No -[4673.68 --> 4674.06] Longer -[4674.06 --> 4674.32] Hold -[4674.32 --> 4674.76] Sway -[4674.76 --> 4675.04] Over -[4675.04 --> 4675.22] You -[4675.22 --> 4675.34] And -[4675.34 --> 4675.58] They -[4675.58 --> 4675.82] No -[4675.82 --> 4676.16] Longer -[4676.16 --> 4676.90] Define -[4676.90 --> 4677.38] You -[4677.38 --> 4677.60] So -[4677.60 --> 4677.82] Do -[4677.82 --> 4678.00] Not -[4678.00 --> 4678.22] Let -[4678.22 --> 4678.42] Them -[4678.42 --> 4679.38] Determine -[4679.38 --> 4680.08] Your -[4680.08 --> 4680.94] Life -[4680.94 --> 4683.14] You -[4683.14 --> 4684.24] Are -[4684.24 --> 4684.74] United -[4684.74 --> 4685.58] To -[4685.58 --> 4686.54] Christ -[4686.54 --> 4687.32] He -[4687.32 --> 4688.22] Is -[4688.22 --> 4688.58] Your -[4688.58 --> 4689.24] Federal -[4689.24 --> 4689.90] Head -[4689.90 --> 4690.28] By -[4690.28 --> 4690.86] Grace -[4690.86 --> 4691.50] Through -[4691.50 --> 4692.00] Faith -[4692.00 --> 4693.58] Right -[4693.58 --> 4693.88] In -[4693.88 --> 4694.30] Christ -[4694.30 --> 4694.54] You -[4694.54 --> 4694.66] Are -[4694.66 --> 4694.90] Not -[4694.90 --> 4695.26] Just -[4695.26 --> 4695.94] With -[4695.94 --> 4696.66] Him -[4696.66 --> 4697.40] You -[4697.40 --> 4697.68] Are -[4697.68 --> 4698.38] In -[4698.38 --> 4699.14] Him -[4699.14 --> 4700.10] What -[4700.10 --> 4700.42] He -[4700.42 --> 4700.94] Did -[4700.94 --> 4701.82] Is -[4701.82 --> 4702.76] Yours -[4702.76 --> 4703.84] Christ -[4703.84 --> 4704.08] That -[4704.08 --> 4704.10] That -[4704.10 --> 4704.24] That's -[4704.24 --> 4704.44] Our -[4704.44 --> 4704.88] Union -[4704.88 --> 4706.62] That's -[4706.62 --> 4706.76] When -[4706.76 --> 4706.90] You -[4706.90 --> 4707.06] Can -[4707.06 --> 4707.34] Say -[4707.34 --> 4707.82] Christ -[4707.82 --> 4708.12] And -[4708.12 --> 4708.40] I -[4708.40 --> 4708.72] Are -[4708.72 --> 4709.36] One -[4709.36 --> 4711.06] The -[4711.06 --> 4711.38] We -[4711.38 --> 4711.66] Of -[4711.66 --> 4711.80] The -[4711.80 --> 4712.12] Sports -[4712.12 --> 4712.54] Team -[4712.54 --> 4713.76] Infinitely -[4713.76 --> 4714.50] Multiplied -[4714.50 --> 4715.54] To -[4715.54 --> 4715.68] The -[4715.68 --> 4716.08] Truth -[4716.08 --> 4716.28] Of -[4716.28 --> 4716.42] Who -[4716.42 --> 4716.72] Jesus -[4716.72 --> 4717.10] Is -[4717.10 --> 4719.14] And -[4719.14 --> 4719.34] Then -[4719.34 --> 4719.90] Here's -[4719.90 --> 4720.12] The -[4720.12 --> 4720.38] Final -[4720.38 --> 4720.76] Word -[4720.76 --> 4722.96] Here's -[4722.96 --> 4723.08] A -[4723.08 --> 4723.36] Way -[4723.36 --> 4723.80] To -[4723.80 --> 4724.60] See -[4724.60 --> 4725.94] Maybe -[4725.94 --> 4726.78] Concretely -[4726.78 --> 4727.18] Maybe -[4727.18 --> 4727.74] Actually -[4727.74 --> 4728.46] What -[4728.46 --> 4728.94] Being -[4728.94 --> 4729.40] United -[4729.40 --> 4729.64] To -[4729.64 --> 4730.04] Christ -[4730.04 --> 4730.56] Means -[4730.56 --> 4731.38] Because -[4731.38 --> 4731.74] Being -[4731.74 --> 4732.22] United -[4732.22 --> 4732.68] With -[4732.68 --> 4733.24] Christ -[4733.24 --> 4733.68] In -[4733.68 --> 4734.20] Christ -[4734.20 --> 4734.98] Comes -[4734.98 --> 4735.86] With -[4735.86 --> 4736.40] A -[4736.40 --> 4736.74] Mission -[4736.74 --> 4738.58] Being -[4738.58 --> 4738.94] United -[4738.94 --> 4739.14] In -[4739.14 --> 4739.48] Christ -[4739.48 --> 4739.82] Means -[4739.82 --> 4740.28] Working -[4740.28 --> 4740.86] With -[4740.86 --> 4741.72] Christ -[4741.72 --> 4743.48] Right -[4743.48 --> 4743.54] It -[4743.54 --> 4743.70] Means -[4743.70 --> 4744.26] Ordering -[4744.26 --> 4744.46] Your -[4744.46 --> 4744.84] Life -[4744.84 --> 4745.08] By -[4745.08 --> 4745.32] His -[4745.32 --> 4745.84] Design -[4745.84 --> 4746.28] It -[4746.28 --> 4746.50] Means -[4746.50 --> 4747.14] Repenting -[4747.14 --> 4747.52] Of -[4747.52 --> 4747.68] Your -[4747.68 --> 4748.10] Sin -[4748.10 --> 4748.56] And -[4748.56 --> 4749.32] Disobedience -[4749.32 --> 4749.50] And -[4749.50 --> 4750.06] Serving -[4750.06 --> 4750.28] The -[4750.28 --> 4750.72] Lost -[4750.72 --> 4751.14] And -[4751.14 --> 4751.28] The -[4751.28 --> 4751.56] Needy -[4751.56 --> 4751.76] It -[4751.76 --> 4751.98] Means -[4751.98 --> 4752.50] Holding -[4752.50 --> 4752.96] Fast -[4752.96 --> 4753.20] To -[4753.20 --> 4753.40] Your -[4753.40 --> 4753.78] Faith -[4753.78 --> 4754.08] Even -[4754.08 --> 4754.32] As -[4754.32 --> 4754.52] You -[4754.52 --> 4754.70] Are -[4754.70 --> 4755.00] Held -[4755.00 --> 4755.40] Fast -[4755.40 --> 4755.66] To -[4755.66 --> 4755.90] By -[4755.90 --> 4756.26] God -[4756.26 --> 4756.72] It -[4756.72 --> 4756.90] Means -[4756.90 --> 4757.50] Igniting -[4757.50 --> 4757.74] Your -[4757.74 --> 4758.08] Faith -[4758.08 --> 4758.48] By -[4758.48 --> 4759.02] Devotion -[4759.02 --> 4759.24] By -[4759.24 --> 4760.00] Bible -[4760.00 --> 4760.46] Study -[4760.46 --> 4760.72] And -[4760.72 --> 4761.06] Reading -[4761.06 --> 4761.30] And -[4761.30 --> 4761.60] Prayer -[4761.60 --> 4761.88] And -[4761.88 --> 4762.36] Drawing -[4762.36 --> 4762.80] Closer -[4762.80 --> 4763.04] To -[4763.04 --> 4763.42] God -[4763.42 --> 4763.86] In -[4763.86 --> 4764.00] The -[4764.00 --> 4765.18] Everyday -[4765.18 --> 4765.88] Steps -[4765.88 --> 4766.02] Of -[4766.02 --> 4766.14] Your -[4766.14 --> 4766.42] Life -[4766.42 --> 4766.58] And -[4766.58 --> 4766.98] Allowing -[4766.98 --> 4767.16] The -[4767.16 --> 4767.48] Gospel -[4767.48 --> 4767.72] To -[4767.72 --> 4768.62] Permeate -[4768.62 --> 4768.82] And -[4768.82 --> 4769.34] Impact -[4769.34 --> 4769.94] Everything -[4769.94 --> 4770.62] That -[4770.62 --> 4770.72] You -[4770.72 --> 4770.94] Do -[4770.94 --> 4771.34] And -[4771.34 --> 4771.56] It -[4771.56 --> 4771.96] Means -[4771.96 --> 4772.94] Proclaiming -[4772.94 --> 4773.44] His -[4773.44 --> 4774.30] Message -[4774.30 --> 4774.56] Of -[4774.56 --> 4775.00] Grace -[4775.00 --> 4775.72] To -[4775.72 --> 4775.84] The -[4775.84 --> 4776.16] World -[4776.16 --> 4777.98] Look -[4777.98 --> 4778.06] At -[4778.06 --> 4778.20] Those -[4778.20 --> 4778.40] Words -[4778.40 --> 4778.72] Again -[4778.72 --> 4779.70] It -[4779.70 --> 4779.84] Means -[4779.84 --> 4780.24] Working -[4780.24 --> 4781.00] It -[4781.00 --> 4781.14] Means -[4781.14 --> 4781.68] Ordering -[4781.68 --> 4782.06] It -[4782.06 --> 4782.24] Means -[4782.24 --> 4782.78] Repenting -[4782.78 --> 4782.98] It -[4782.98 --> 4783.16] Means -[4783.16 --> 4783.58] Serving -[4783.58 --> 4783.78] It -[4783.78 --> 4783.96] Means -[4783.96 --> 4784.32] Holding -[4784.32 --> 4784.60] It -[4786.90 --> 4788.46] W -[4788.46 --> 4789.56] O -[4789.56 --> 4790.68] R -[4790.68 --> 4791.64] S -[4791.64 --> 4792.68] H -[4792.68 --> 4793.58] I -[4793.58 --> 4794.46] P -[4794.46 --> 4796.64] Worship -[4796.64 --> 4798.40] It -[4798.40 --> 4798.88] Means -[4798.88 --> 4800.62] Worship -[4800.62 --> 4802.58] Your -[4802.58 --> 4803.20] Whole -[4803.20 --> 4803.66] New -[4803.66 --> 4804.40] Life -[4804.40 --> 4804.90] In -[4804.90 --> 4805.90] Christ -[4805.90 --> 4806.78] Reigning -[4806.78 --> 4807.22] With -[4807.22 --> 4807.64] Him -[4807.64 --> 4808.24] Is -[4808.24 --> 4808.64] About -[4808.64 --> 4810.06] Worship -[4810.06 --> 4812.14] So -[4812.14 --> 4812.36] As -[4812.36 --> 4812.52] You -[4812.52 --> 4812.70] Go -[4812.70 --> 4813.00] This -[4813.00 --> 4813.28] Week -[4813.28 --> 4813.50] Go -[4813.50 --> 4813.82] Not -[4813.82 --> 4814.68] Defined -[4814.68 --> 4815.32] By -[4815.32 --> 4815.48] The -[4815.48 --> 4815.76] Things -[4815.76 --> 4815.90] Of -[4815.90 --> 4816.00] The -[4816.00 --> 4816.44] Past -[4816.44 --> 4817.56] But -[4817.56 --> 4817.90] Go -[4817.90 --> 4818.20] As -[4818.20 --> 4818.72] Those -[4818.72 --> 4819.08] Who -[4819.08 --> 4819.78] Worship -[4819.78 --> 4820.60] Our -[4820.60 --> 4821.34] Good -[4821.34 --> 4822.46] God -[4822.46 --> 4823.16] Go -[4823.16 --> 4823.50] As -[4823.50 --> 4823.84] Those -[4823.84 --> 4824.02] Who -[4824.02 --> 4824.18] Have -[4824.18 --> 4824.36] Been -[4824.36 --> 4824.88] Called -[4824.88 --> 4825.22] By -[4825.22 --> 4825.88] Faith -[4825.88 --> 4826.52] To -[4826.52 --> 4827.38] Declare -[4827.38 --> 4827.96] His -[4827.96 --> 4828.78] Praises -[4828.78 --> 4829.04] In -[4829.04 --> 4829.38] All -[4829.38 --> 4829.78] That -[4829.78 --> 4829.90] We -[4829.90 --> 4830.08] Do -[4830.08 --> 4830.42] Because -[4830.42 --> 4831.04] That -[4831.04 --> 4831.86] Is -[4831.86 --> 4832.44] Who -[4832.44 --> 4832.74] You -[4832.74 --> 4833.22] Are -[4833.22 --> 4834.02] In -[4834.02 --> 4835.06] Him -[4835.06 --> 4836.32] Amen -[4836.32 --> 4837.60] Let's -[4837.60 --> 4837.76] Pray -[4837.76 --> 4838.14] Together -[4838.14 --> 4843.54] Lord -[4843.54 --> 4843.90] Our -[4843.90 --> 4844.46] God -[4844.46 --> 4848.38] Help -[4848.38 --> 4848.40] Help -[4848.40 --> 4848.86] Help us -[4848.86 --> 4849.56] Today -[4849.56 --> 4850.66] To -[4850.66 --> 4851.18] See -[4851.18 --> 4851.74] Our -[4851.74 --> 4852.38] Union -[4852.38 --> 4852.94] With -[4852.94 --> 4853.20] You -[4853.20 --> 4853.46] By -[4853.46 --> 4853.86] Grace -[4853.86 --> 4854.14] Through -[4854.14 --> 4854.58] Faith -[4854.58 --> 4855.20] With -[4855.20 --> 4855.44] New -[4855.44 --> 4855.86] Eyes -[4855.86 --> 4856.10] With -[4856.10 --> 4856.56] Fresh -[4856.56 --> 4857.10] Eyes -[4857.10 --> 4858.34] Help -[4858.34 --> 4858.86] This -[4858.86 --> 4859.92] Amazing -[4859.92 --> 4860.50] Gospel -[4860.50 --> 4861.04] Truth -[4861.04 --> 4861.68] To -[4861.68 --> 4862.00] No -[4862.00 --> 4862.42] Longer -[4862.42 --> 4862.70] Be -[4862.70 --> 4863.32] Stale -[4863.32 --> 4865.14] But -[4865.14 --> 4865.26] To -[4865.26 --> 4865.40] Be -[4865.40 --> 4865.84] Fresh -[4865.84 --> 4866.30] And -[4866.30 --> 4866.82] Beautiful -[4866.82 --> 4867.38] To -[4867.38 --> 4867.60] Come -[4867.60 --> 4868.10] Alive -[4868.10 --> 4868.36] In -[4868.36 --> 4868.78] Us -[4868.78 --> 4869.14] Through -[4869.14 --> 4869.70] Our -[4869.70 --> 4870.42] Worshipping -[4870.42 --> 4871.20] Lives -[4871.20 --> 4872.50] And -[4872.50 --> 4872.64] So -[4872.64 --> 4872.88] Help -[4872.88 --> 4873.04] Us -[4873.04 --> 4873.22] To -[4873.22 --> 4873.58] Work -[4873.58 --> 4874.64] With -[4874.64 --> 4874.86] You -[4874.86 --> 4875.20] Help -[4875.20 --> 4875.40] Us -[4875.40 --> 4875.56] To -[4875.56 --> 4875.88] Order -[4875.88 --> 4876.18] Our -[4876.18 --> 4876.60] Life -[4876.60 --> 4877.28] By -[4877.28 --> 4877.50] You -[4877.50 --> 4878.36] Lead -[4878.36 --> 4878.70] Us -[4878.70 --> 4879.06] Into -[4879.06 --> 4879.74] Repentance -[4879.74 --> 4879.94] So -[4879.94 --> 4880.10] That -[4880.10 --> 4880.26] We -[4880.26 --> 4880.52] Might -[4880.52 --> 4880.82] Go -[4880.82 --> 4881.10] And -[4881.10 --> 4881.56] Serve -[4881.56 --> 4881.80] The -[4881.80 --> 4882.18] Lost -[4882.18 --> 4882.48] And -[4882.48 --> 4882.62] The -[4882.62 --> 4882.98] Needy -[4882.98 --> 4883.82] Holding -[4883.82 --> 4884.26] On -[4884.26 --> 4884.48] To -[4884.48 --> 4884.68] Our -[4884.68 --> 4885.08] Faith -[4885.08 --> 4885.34] As -[4885.34 --> 4885.50] You -[4885.50 --> 4885.80] Hold -[4885.80 --> 4886.10] On -[4886.10 --> 4886.28] To -[4886.28 --> 4886.62] Us -[4886.62 --> 4887.30] Send -[4887.30 --> 4887.56] Us -[4887.56 --> 4887.98] Out -[4887.98 --> 4889.58] Ignited -[4889.58 --> 4890.52] By -[4890.52 --> 4890.70] Your -[4890.70 --> 4890.98] Holy -[4890.98 --> 4891.44] Spirit -[4891.44 --> 4892.24] To -[4892.24 --> 4892.44] Live -[4892.44 --> 4892.64] For -[4892.64 --> 4892.88] You -[4892.88 --> 4894.14] Send -[4894.14 --> 4894.36] Us -[4894.36 --> 4894.62] Out -[4894.62 --> 4895.56] Proclaiming -[4895.56 --> 4895.78] With -[4895.78 --> 4896.56] Boldness -[4896.56 --> 4897.06] This -[4897.06 --> 4898.18] Gospel -[4898.18 --> 4899.08] Word -[4899.08 --> 4900.88] Send -[4900.88 --> 4901.08] Us -[4901.08 --> 4901.26] Out -[4901.26 --> 4901.40] With -[4901.40 --> 4901.54] A -[4901.54 --> 4901.70] New -[4901.70 --> 4902.22] Song -[4902.22 --> 4902.52] On -[4902.52 --> 4902.72] Our -[4902.72 --> 4903.18] Lips -[4903.18 --> 4903.48] That -[4903.48 --> 4903.66] We -[4903.66 --> 4903.98] Might -[4903.98 --> 4904.38] Sing -[4904.38 --> 4904.64] Of -[4904.64 --> 4904.92] You -[4904.92 --> 4905.34] Our -[4905.34 --> 4906.02] Good -[4906.02 --> 4906.84] Father -[4906.84 --> 4907.18] In -[4907.18 --> 4907.68] The -[4907.68 --> 4907.94] Name -[4907.94 --> 4908.16] Of -[4908.16 --> 4908.50] Jesus -[4908.50 --> 4909.14] Christ -[4909.14 --> 4909.56] We -[4909.56 --> 4909.90] Pray -[4909.90 --> 4911.14] Amen -[4929.08 --> 4935.08] I -[4935.08 --> 4949.66] Love You -[4949.66 --> 4950.40] Lord -[4950.40 --> 4953.52] All Your -[4953.52 --> 4954.80] Mercy never -[4954.80 --> 4955.88] Fails -[4955.88 --> 4956.64] Me -[4956.64 --> 4958.24] All -[4958.24 --> 4958.70] My -[4958.70 --> 4960.18] Days -[4960.18 --> 4960.42] I -[4960.42 --> 4960.64] Been -[4960.64 --> 4961.24] Held -[4961.24 --> 4961.66] In -[4961.66 --> 4962.08] Your -[4962.08 --> 4963.74] Hands -[4963.74 --> 4964.84] From -[4964.84 --> 4965.06] The -[4965.06 --> 4965.46] Moment -[4965.46 --> 4965.78] That -[4965.78 --> 4965.96] I -[4965.96 --> 4966.62] Wake -[4966.62 --> 4967.70] Up -[4967.70 --> 4968.84] Until -[4968.84 --> 4969.22] I -[4969.22 --> 4969.58] Lay -[4969.58 --> 4970.06] My -[4970.06 --> 4971.26] Head -[4971.26 --> 4972.38] I -[4972.38 --> 4972.76] Will -[4972.76 --> 4973.42] Sing -[4973.42 --> 4974.50] Of -[4974.50 --> 4974.66] The -[4974.66 --> 4975.18] Goodness -[4975.18 --> 4976.48] Of -[4976.48 --> 4977.64] God -[4977.64 --> 4981.46] All -[4981.46 --> 4981.82] My -[4981.82 --> 4982.56] Life -[4982.56 --> 4982.82] You -[4982.82 --> 4983.26] Have -[4983.26 --> 4983.64] Been -[4983.64 --> 4985.56] Faithful -[4985.56 --> 4988.78] All -[4988.78 --> 4989.14] My -[4989.14 --> 4989.90] Life -[4989.90 --> 4990.18] You -[4990.18 --> 4990.54] Have -[4990.54 --> 4991.04] Been -[4991.04 --> 4991.64] So -[4991.64 --> 4992.32] So -[4992.32 --> 4993.66] Good -[4993.66 --> 4995.72] With -[4995.72 --> 4996.18] Every -[4996.18 --> 4997.02] Breath -[4997.02 --> 4997.32] That -[4997.32 --> 4997.70] I -[4997.70 --> 4998.08] Am -[4998.08 --> 4999.28] A -[4999.28 --> 4999.56] Full -[4999.56 --> 5001.18] I -[5001.18 --> 5001.56] Will -[5001.56 --> 5002.60] Sing -[5002.60 --> 5003.28] Of -[5003.28 --> 5003.44] The -[5003.44 --> 5004.02] Goodness -[5004.02 --> 5005.30] Of -[5005.30 --> 5006.32] God -[5006.32 --> 5007.86] I -[5007.86 --> 5008.36] Love -[5008.36 --> 5008.82] Your -[5008.82 --> 5010.76] Voice -[5010.76 --> 5012.38] You -[5012.38 --> 5012.60] Have -[5012.60 --> 5012.98] Led -[5012.98 --> 5013.24] Me -[5013.24 --> 5013.52] Through -[5013.52 --> 5014.06] The -[5014.06 --> 5014.98] Fire -[5014.98 --> 5016.84] In -[5016.84 --> 5017.76] Darkest -[5017.76 --> 5018.68] Night -[5018.68 --> 5019.44] You -[5019.44 --> 5019.66] Are -[5019.66 --> 5020.26] Close -[5020.26 --> 5020.82] Like -[5020.82 --> 5021.14] No -[5021.14 --> 5021.92] Other -[5021.92 --> 5023.90] I -[5023.90 --> 5024.18] Know -[5024.18 --> 5024.42] You -[5024.42 --> 5024.76] As -[5024.76 --> 5024.92] A -[5024.92 --> 5025.70] Father -[5025.70 --> 5027.52] I -[5027.52 --> 5027.84] Know -[5027.84 --> 5028.24] You -[5028.24 --> 5028.80] As -[5028.80 --> 5029.14] A -[5029.14 --> 5029.98] Friend -[5029.98 --> 5031.38] I -[5031.38 --> 5031.92] Have -[5031.92 --> 5032.34] In -[5032.34 --> 5033.70] The -[5033.70 --> 5034.32] Goodness -[5034.32 --> 5035.66] Of -[5035.66 --> 5036.98] God -[5036.98 --> 5040.62] All -[5040.62 --> 5041.00] My -[5041.00 --> 5041.70] Life -[5041.70 --> 5042.04] You -[5042.04 --> 5042.42] Have -[5042.42 --> 5042.92] Been -[5042.92 --> 5044.74] Faithful -[5044.74 --> 5046.74] All -[5046.74 --> 5047.66] And -[5047.66 --> 5047.90] All -[5047.90 --> 5048.24] My -[5048.24 --> 5049.00] Life -[5049.00 --> 5049.22] You -[5049.22 --> 5049.64] Have -[5049.64 --> 5050.08] Been -[5050.08 --> 5050.96] So -[5050.96 --> 5051.86] So -[5051.86 --> 5052.82] Good -[5052.82 --> 5054.90] With -[5054.90 --> 5055.40] Every -[5055.40 --> 5056.26] Breath -[5056.26 --> 5056.58] That -[5056.58 --> 5056.96] I -[5056.96 --> 5057.34] Am -[5057.34 --> 5058.46] Made -[5058.46 --> 5059.34] Home -[5059.34 --> 5060.34] I -[5060.34 --> 5060.76] Will -[5060.76 --> 5061.54] Sing -[5061.54 --> 5062.48] Of -[5062.48 --> 5062.64] The -[5062.64 --> 5063.22] Goodness -[5063.22 --> 5064.48] Of -[5064.48 --> 5065.96] God -[5065.96 --> 5068.94] Your -[5068.94 --> 5069.68] Goodness -[5069.68 --> 5070.00] Is -[5070.00 --> 5070.38] Running -[5070.38 --> 5071.28] After -[5071.28 --> 5071.92] It's -[5071.92 --> 5072.26] Running -[5072.26 --> 5073.36] After -[5073.36 --> 5073.88] Me -[5073.88 --> 5076.12] Your -[5076.12 --> 5076.78] Goodness -[5076.78 --> 5077.14] Is -[5077.14 --> 5077.50] Running -[5077.50 --> 5078.36] After -[5078.36 --> 5078.92] It's -[5078.92 --> 5079.28] Running -[5079.28 --> 5080.24] After -[5080.24 --> 5080.84] Me -[5080.84 --> 5081.92] With -[5081.92 --> 5082.16] My -[5082.16 --> 5082.56] Life -[5082.56 --> 5082.96] Laid -[5082.96 --> 5083.42] Down -[5083.42 --> 5083.68] I -[5083.68 --> 5084.34] Surrend -[5084.34 --> 5085.14] Now -[5085.14 --> 5085.56] I -[5085.56 --> 5086.18] Give -[5086.18 --> 5086.42] You -[5086.42 --> 5087.28] Everything -[5087.28 --> 5089.76] Your -[5089.76 --> 5090.46] Goodness -[5090.46 --> 5090.80] Is -[5090.80 --> 5091.14] Running -[5091.14 --> 5092.06] After -[5092.06 --> 5092.56] It's -[5092.56 --> 5092.88] Running -[5092.88 --> 5093.90] After -[5093.90 --> 5094.40] Me -[5094.40 --> 5096.72] Your -[5096.72 --> 5097.36] Goodness -[5097.36 --> 5097.72] Is -[5097.72 --> 5098.04] Running -[5098.04 --> 5098.90] After -[5098.90 --> 5099.44] It's -[5099.44 --> 5099.76] Running -[5099.76 --> 5100.78] After -[5100.78 --> 5101.38] Me -[5101.38 --> 5103.58] Your -[5103.58 --> 5104.24] Goodness -[5104.24 --> 5104.60] Is -[5104.60 --> 5104.94] Running -[5104.94 --> 5105.80] After -[5105.80 --> 5106.32] It's -[5106.32 --> 5106.62] Running -[5106.62 --> 5107.64] After -[5107.64 --> 5108.20] Me -[5108.20 --> 5109.28] With -[5109.28 --> 5109.52] My -[5109.52 --> 5109.92] Life -[5109.92 --> 5110.30] Laid -[5110.30 --> 5110.72] Down -[5110.72 --> 5110.94] I -[5110.94 --> 5111.64] Surrend -[5111.64 --> 5112.46] Now -[5112.46 --> 5112.90] I -[5112.90 --> 5113.52] Give -[5113.52 --> 5113.76] You -[5113.76 --> 5114.74] Everything -[5114.74 --> 5117.24] Your -[5117.28 --> 5118.04] Goodness -[5118.04 --> 5118.40] Is -[5118.40 --> 5118.74] Running -[5118.74 --> 5119.64] After -[5119.64 --> 5120.06] It's -[5120.06 --> 5120.50] Running -[5120.50 --> 5121.50] After -[5121.50 --> 5122.70] Me -[5122.70 --> 5124.72] All -[5124.72 --> 5126.66] My -[5126.66 --> 5127.44] Life -[5127.44 --> 5127.68] You -[5127.68 --> 5128.10] Have -[5128.10 --> 5128.60] Been -[5128.60 --> 5130.32] Faithful -[5130.32 --> 5133.42] All -[5133.42 --> 5133.82] My -[5133.82 --> 5134.56] Life -[5134.56 --> 5134.78] You -[5134.78 --> 5135.22] Have -[5135.22 --> 5135.62] Been -[5135.62 --> 5136.20] So -[5136.20 --> 5136.76] So -[5136.76 --> 5137.72] Good -[5137.72 --> 5140.30] With -[5140.30 --> 5140.76] Every -[5140.76 --> 5141.62] Breath -[5141.62 --> 5141.96] That -[5141.96 --> 5142.34] I -[5142.34 --> 5142.72] Am -[5142.72 --> 5143.70] A -[5143.70 --> 5145.76] I -[5145.76 --> 5146.14] Will -[5146.14 --> 5147.02] Sing -[5147.02 --> 5147.78] Of -[5147.78 --> 5147.94] The -[5147.94 --> 5148.52] Goodness -[5148.52 --> 5149.72] Of -[5149.72 --> 5150.76] God -[5150.76 --> 5152.72] I -[5152.72 --> 5153.18] Will -[5153.18 --> 5154.16] Sing -[5154.16 --> 5154.82] Of -[5154.82 --> 5155.02] The -[5155.02 --> 5155.60] Goodness -[5155.60 --> 5156.88] Of -[5156.88 --> 5157.70] God -[5157.70 --> 5172.66] As we -[5172.66 --> 5173.80] go into -[5173.80 --> 5174.74] this week -[5174.74 --> 5175.38] ahead -[5175.38 --> 5176.62] we go -[5176.62 --> 5177.34] with God -[5177.34 --> 5178.68] I -[5178.68 --> 5179.08] recognize -[5179.08 --> 5179.66] that -[5179.66 --> 5180.74] some -[5180.74 --> 5181.28] of you -[5181.28 --> 5181.80] might be -[5181.80 --> 5182.24] looking for -[5182.24 --> 5182.60] prayer -[5182.60 --> 5183.04] some -[5183.04 --> 5183.42] of you -[5183.42 --> 5183.84] might be -[5183.84 --> 5184.46] looking to -[5184.46 --> 5185.04] connect -[5185.04 --> 5186.90] in prayer -[5186.90 --> 5187.44] or to -[5187.44 --> 5188.28] ask questions -[5188.28 --> 5188.96] about what -[5188.96 --> 5189.80] does this -[5189.80 --> 5190.66] idea of -[5190.66 --> 5191.36] union with -[5191.36 --> 5191.78] Christ -[5191.78 --> 5192.42] mean for -[5192.42 --> 5192.68] me -[5192.68 --> 5193.40] if this -[5193.40 --> 5193.72] is a -[5193.72 --> 5194.14] new thing -[5194.14 --> 5194.58] for you -[5194.58 --> 5195.70] I invite -[5195.70 --> 5195.90] you -[5195.90 --> 5196.40] there are -[5196.40 --> 5197.46] people who -[5197.46 --> 5197.70] will be -[5197.70 --> 5198.04] here -[5198.04 --> 5198.70] someone at -[5198.70 --> 5199.04] the front -[5199.04 --> 5199.32] with a -[5199.32 --> 5199.78] name tag -[5199.78 --> 5200.18] who's got -[5200.18 --> 5200.52] a yellow -[5200.52 --> 5201.10] tag on -[5201.10 --> 5201.20] it -[5201.20 --> 5201.62] they want -[5201.62 --> 5201.94] to pray -[5201.94 --> 5202.34] with you -[5202.34 --> 5202.72] I will -[5202.72 --> 5203.24] also be -[5203.24 --> 5203.64] at the -[5203.64 --> 5203.92] back -[5203.92 --> 5204.24] at the -[5204.24 --> 5204.54] connect -[5204.54 --> 5204.92] booth -[5204.92 --> 5205.74] you can -[5205.74 --> 5206.08] grab me -[5206.08 --> 5206.36] there -[5206.36 --> 5206.72] we can -[5206.72 --> 5206.96] have -[5206.96 --> 5208.04] conversation -[5208.04 --> 5209.02] about -[5209.02 --> 5209.48] what this -[5209.48 --> 5209.96] means for -[5209.96 --> 5210.26] you -[5210.26 --> 5211.16] together -[5211.16 --> 5212.42] we're -[5212.42 --> 5212.58] going to -[5212.58 --> 5213.00] go with -[5213.00 --> 5213.12] the -[5213.12 --> 5213.44] blessing -[5213.44 --> 5214.02] of God -[5214.02 --> 5214.46] and the -[5214.46 --> 5214.98] invitation -[5214.98 --> 5215.60] to stick -[5215.60 --> 5216.02] around -[5216.02 --> 5216.34] there's -[5216.34 --> 5216.70] fellowship -[5216.70 --> 5217.20] after -[5217.20 --> 5217.58] please -[5217.58 --> 5218.10] join us -[5218.10 --> 5218.50] for that -[5218.50 --> 5220.96] recently -[5220.96 --> 5221.60] we have -[5221.60 --> 5221.92] been -[5221.92 --> 5222.38] ending -[5222.38 --> 5222.66] our -[5222.66 --> 5223.04] services -[5223.04 --> 5223.52] with -[5223.52 --> 5223.94] the -[5223.94 --> 5224.82] priestly -[5224.82 --> 5225.36] blessing -[5225.36 --> 5225.96] from -[5225.96 --> 5226.52] numbers -[5226.52 --> 5227.60] 6 -[5227.60 --> 5228.94] and -[5228.94 --> 5229.98] I -[5229.98 --> 5230.22] wanted -[5230.22 --> 5230.46] to -[5230.46 --> 5230.70] point -[5230.70 --> 5230.94] out -[5230.94 --> 5231.14] to -[5231.14 --> 5231.34] you -[5231.34 --> 5231.64] before -[5231.64 --> 5231.88] we -[5231.88 --> 5232.10] say -[5232.10 --> 5232.40] that -[5232.40 --> 5233.60] in -[5233.60 --> 5233.82] numbers -[5233.82 --> 5234.14] 6 -[5234.14 --> 5234.32] verse -[5234.32 --> 5234.84] 27 -[5234.84 --> 5235.40] after -[5235.40 --> 5236.60] God -[5236.60 --> 5236.92] gives -[5236.92 --> 5237.30] this -[5237.30 --> 5237.88] blessing -[5237.88 --> 5238.28] to -[5238.28 --> 5238.70] Moses -[5238.70 --> 5239.32] saying -[5239.32 --> 5239.90] this is -[5239.90 --> 5240.16] how you -[5240.16 --> 5240.40] are to -[5240.40 --> 5240.64] bless -[5240.64 --> 5240.82] the -[5240.82 --> 5241.28] Israelites -[5241.28 --> 5242.06] he -[5242.06 --> 5242.50] says -[5242.50 --> 5243.52] so -[5243.52 --> 5243.84] they -[5243.84 --> 5244.12] will -[5244.12 --> 5244.42] put -[5244.42 --> 5244.86] my -[5244.86 --> 5245.48] name -[5245.48 --> 5245.74] on -[5245.74 --> 5245.92] the -[5245.92 --> 5246.56] Israelites -[5246.56 --> 5247.42] and -[5247.42 --> 5247.54] I -[5247.54 --> 5247.68] will -[5247.68 --> 5247.96] bless -[5247.96 --> 5248.22] them -[5248.22 --> 5249.70] this -[5249.70 --> 5250.18] blessing -[5250.18 --> 5250.52] from -[5250.52 --> 5251.00] God -[5251.00 --> 5251.44] is -[5251.44 --> 5251.86] God -[5251.86 --> 5252.40] signing -[5252.40 --> 5252.88] his -[5252.88 --> 5253.60] name -[5253.60 --> 5254.10] on -[5254.10 --> 5254.82] you -[5254.82 --> 5256.54] this -[5256.54 --> 5256.88] is -[5256.88 --> 5257.16] your -[5257.16 --> 5257.92] identity -[5257.92 --> 5258.98] in -[5258.98 --> 5259.66] him -[5259.66 --> 5261.44] and -[5261.44 --> 5261.62] so -[5261.62 --> 5262.28] receive -[5262.28 --> 5263.24] God's -[5263.24 --> 5264.08] blessing -[5264.08 --> 5264.74] his -[5264.74 --> 5265.06] naming -[5265.06 --> 5265.36] of -[5265.36 --> 5265.64] you -[5265.64 --> 5266.34] for -[5266.34 --> 5266.46] the -[5266.46 --> 5266.88] days -[5266.88 --> 5267.34] and -[5267.34 --> 5267.66] week -[5267.66 --> 5268.60] ahead -[5268.60 --> 5270.58] the -[5270.58 --> 5270.76] Lord -[5270.76 --> 5271.18] bless -[5271.18 --> 5271.46] you -[5271.46 --> 5272.78] and -[5272.78 --> 5273.10] keep -[5273.10 --> 5273.36] you -[5273.36 --> 5274.54] the -[5274.54 --> 5274.68] Lord -[5274.68 --> 5274.88] make -[5274.88 --> 5275.02] his -[5275.02 --> 5275.24] face -[5275.24 --> 5275.44] shine -[5275.44 --> 5275.70] upon -[5275.70 --> 5275.86] you -[5275.86 --> 5276.00] and -[5276.00 --> 5276.18] be -[5276.18 --> 5276.66] gracious -[5276.66 --> 5277.52] to -[5277.52 --> 5277.80] you -[5277.80 --> 5278.62] the -[5278.62 --> 5278.92] Lord -[5278.92 --> 5279.42] turn -[5279.42 --> 5279.84] his -[5279.84 --> 5280.36] face -[5280.36 --> 5280.74] toward -[5280.74 --> 5281.16] you -[5281.16 --> 5281.74] and -[5281.74 --> 5282.12] give -[5282.12 --> 5282.50] you -[5282.50 --> 5283.34] his -[5283.34 --> 5284.50] peace -[5284.50 --> 5285.68] all -[5285.68 --> 5285.90] God's -[5285.90 --> 5286.06] people -[5286.06 --> 5286.40] said -[5286.40 --> 5287.68] amen -[5287.68 --> 5300.94] as -[5300.94 --> 5309.08] we -[5309.08 --> 5312.72] will -[5314.72 --> 5315.24] rise -[5315.24 --> 5315.32] in -[5315.32 --> 5315.66] the -[5315.66 --> 5327.58] house of zion we will sing with our hearts restored he has done great things we will say -[5327.58 --> 5334.38] together we will feast and weep no more -[5334.38 --> 5347.90] we will not be burned by the fire he is the lord -[5347.90 --> 5354.14] our god we are not consumed by the flood -[5354.14 --> 5374.46] upheld protected gathered up we will feast in the house of zion we will sing with our hearts restored -[5374.46 --> 5385.02] he has done great things we will say together we will feast and weep no more -[5389.26 --> 5402.46] in the dark of night before the dawn my soul be not afraid for the promised morning -[5402.46 --> 5408.46] oh how long oh god -[5414.06 --> 5428.46] we will feast in the house of zion we will sing with our hearts restored he has done great things we will -[5428.46 --> 5436.06] say together we will feast and weep no more -[5436.06 --> 5450.06] every valley broken and betrayed you are the faithful one -[5450.06 --> 5461.66] one and from the garden to the grave find us together bring -[5461.66 --> 5489.66] shall we will feast in the house of zion we will feast with our hearts restored he has done great things we will say together we will feast and weep no more -[5489.66 --> 5492.30] forward -[5499.26 --> 5501.02] fin quit -[5501.26 --> 5503.42] go -[5503.42 --> 5506.86] titanium -[5506.86 --> 5536.84] Thank you. -[5536.86 --> 5566.84] Thank you. -[5566.86 --> 5596.84] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - March 20, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - March 20, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index cf7fdcf45e3918e0399edbdd3b89f2c97a303b57..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - March 20, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,54 +0,0 @@ -• Discussion about a text from Exodus -• Mention of Jesus and his relationship to the text -• Critique of evangelical Christians' tendency to over-interpret prefigurations in scripture -• Reference to touring a life-size replica of the tabernacle in the Judean wilderness -• Explanation that the focus of the original hearer's understanding was on how the tabernacle functioned as a whole, not individual items. -• The function of the tabernacle is to draw people into the presence of God -• The cloud of God's presence settled on the tabernacle and the glory of the Lord filled it -• The tabernacle is an earthly representation of a heavenly reality, like the Garden of Eden -• The tabernacle's construction is seen as an act of recreation by God -• Without the tabernacle and temple, Israel would cease to be an active worshiping people -• The book of Exodus emphasizes that Israel's purpose is to have God's visible presence among them -• Jesus' cleansing of the temple in John 2 -• The transition from a physical tabernacle/temple to Jesus' body as the dwelling place of God -• The significance of the word "skeno" (tabernacle) in John 1:14 -• Jesus as the new, improved temple or tabernacle -• The culmination of the old system (Exodus 25) in Jesus -• The glory of God being present in Jesus, rather than a physical location -• The theme of temple and tabernacle in Jesus woven throughout the Bible, including Revelation 21. -• The dwelling place of God is no longer confined to a specific space or location. -• In the new creation, heaven comes down and fills all earth, making it like the Garden of Eden. -• Jesus' presence with his people is now through the Holy Spirit. -• Individual believers are temples of God where the Holy Spirit dwells. -• The church is collectively and individually the place where God dwells. -• God has taken residence in each believer. -• God reveals himself in part through each believer in whom he dwells. -• The church building is not the dwelling place of God, but rather a gathering of people who have God with them. -• Worship is a foretaste of the kingdom of God and a taste of eternity. -• The temple as a metaphor for the human body and its importance in following God's instructions -• The struggle to maintain a high standard in one's life, with the example of not tolerating deviations from God's design -• Recognizing that lesser sins (e.g. pornography, violence, gossip) are still significant offenses against God -• The need for corporate worship as a reminder and encouragement to live according to God's standards -• The gospel message being proclaimed in corporate worship, providing forgiveness, strength, and assurance -• The importance of Jesus Christ being Lord and the reward that comes with exalting him. -• The presence of God in the world through believers, who are to scatter out from their gathering and bring God's presence to others. -• The connection between what is done in worship services and its impact on daily life outside the church. -• The role of individuals as God's tabernacle in the world, bringing his presence into every aspect of life, including work, relationships, and personal decisions. -• The speaker describes God's presence among those around them -• A prayer is offered to know and experience God's presence, with a focus on going on mission and revealing God to the world -• The prayer concludes with a request for boldness and pouring out of love -• The test or trial faced by the speaker is mentioned, with an emphasis on ceasing to know God and making amends -• A solemn pledge is made to go and make God known in response to the need or crisis -• Kingdom of hope unfurled for all names -• Power to save comes from Jesus Christ the Lord -• Commission to spread the word is same as before -• Same battalion, arms fired by same ambition -• Yielding power and going to all the world with kingdom hope -• Love to our father sustains them and inspires Savior's love -• Salvation and the power of God to save -• Jesus Christ as the Lord and savior -• The presence of God in the world -• Faith, grace, and the Holy Spirit -• God's guidance and protection on life's journey -• Assurance of salvation through God's throne -• Praise and glory to God forever and ever \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - March 20, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - March 20, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6db83fc3135df6c5b5f126dc28cdbf3b2937a2df..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - March 20, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,899 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 599.98] Thank you. -[599.98 --> 629.96] Thank you. -[629.98 --> 659.96] Thank you. -[659.98 --> 689.96] Thank you. -[689.98 --> 719.96] Thank you. -[719.98 --> 720.00] Thank you. -[749.98 --> 779.96] Thank you. -[779.98 --> 809.96] Thank you. -[809.98 --> 839.96] Thank you. -[839.96 --> 869.94] Thank you. -[869.94 --> 899.92] Thank you. -[899.94 --> 929.92] Thank you. -[929.92 --> 959.90] Thank you. -[959.90 --> 989.88] Thank you. -[989.90 --> 1019.88] Thank you. -[1019.88 --> 1049.86] Thank you. -[1049.86 --> 1079.84] Thank you. -[1079.84 --> 1109.82] Thank you. -[1109.82 --> 1139.80] Thank you. -[1139.82 --> 1169.80] Thank you. -[1169.82 --> 1199.80] Thank you. -[1199.80 --> 1229.78] Thank you. -[1229.78 --> 1259.76] Thank you. -[1259.78 --> 1289.78] Thank you. -[1289.78 --> 1319.76] Thank you. -[1319.78 --> 1349.78] Thank you. -[1349.78 --> 1379.76] Thank you. -[1379.78 --> 1409.76] Thank you. -[1409.78 --> 1439.76] Thank you. -[1439.78 --> 1469.76] Lord of all. -[1469.78 --> 1499.78] Jesus. -[1499.78 --> 1529.76] Thank you. -[1529.76 --> 1559.74] Thank you. -[1559.76 --> 1589.74] Thank you. -[1589.76 --> 1619.74] Thank you. -[1619.74 --> 1649.72] Thank you. -[1649.72 --> 1679.70] Thank you. -[1679.72 --> 1709.70] Thank you. -[1709.70 --> 1739.70] Thank you. -[1739.70 --> 1769.68] Thank you. -[1769.68 --> 1799.66] Thank you. -[1799.66 --> 1829.64] Thank you. -[1829.66 --> 1859.64] Thank you. -[1859.66 --> 1889.64] Thank you. -[1889.66 --> 1919.64] Thank you. -[1919.64 --> 1949.62] Thank you. -[1949.64 --> 1979.62] Thank you. -[1979.64 --> 2009.64] Thank you. -[2009.64 --> 2039.62] Thank you. -[2039.64 --> 2069.62] Thank you. -[2069.64 --> 2099.62] Thank you. -[2099.62 --> 2129.60] Thank you. -[2129.60 --> 2159.58] Thank you. -[2159.60 --> 2189.58] Thank you. -[2189.60 --> 2219.58] Thank you. -[2219.60 --> 2249.60] Thank you. -[2249.60 --> 2279.58] Thank you. -[2279.60 --> 2309.58] Thank you. -[2309.60 --> 2339.58] Thank you. -[2339.60 --> 2369.60] Thank you. -[2369.60 --> 2399.58] Thank you. -[2399.58 --> 2429.58] Good. -[2429.58 --> 2459.56] Thank you. -[2459.56 --> 2489.56] Thank you. -[2489.56 --> 2519.56] Thank you. -[2519.56 --> 2549.54] Thank you. -[2549.56 --> 2579.54] Thank you. -[2579.54 --> 2609.54] -[2609.54 --> 2639.54] Thank you. -[2639.54 --> 2669.54] Thank you. -[2669.54 --> 2699.54] Thank you. -[2699.54 --> 2729.52] Thank you. -[2729.54 --> 2759.52] Thank you. -[2759.52 --> 2789.50] Thank you. -[2789.52 --> 2819.52] Thank you. -[2819.52 --> 2849.52] -[2849.52 --> 2879.50] Thank you. -[2879.52 --> 2909.52] Thank you. -[2909.52 --> 2939.52] Thank you. -[2939.52 --> 2969.52] Thank you. -[2969.52 --> 2999.52] Thank you. -[2999.52 --> 3029.50] So, from Exodus. -[3029.52 --> 3059.52] -[3059.52 --> 3089.50] I will show you. -[3089.52 --> 3119.52] Thank you. -[3119.52 --> 3149.52] Thank you. -[3149.52 --> 3179.52] Thank you. -[3179.52 --> 3209.52] Thank you. -[3209.52 --> 3210.88] I know, for you. -[3239.52 --> 3248.60] individual things prefigure or reveal or shadow the coming work of Jesus. If I'm honest with you, -[3248.68 --> 3255.64] in fact, I think a lot of times when we evangelical Christian types do that, we're stretching those -[3255.64 --> 3262.30] images beyond the point of tenability. Now, even as I say that, I mean, let me be clear, -[3262.96 --> 3267.38] I think there are correlations, and I think that the symbols are meaningful and they're worth -[3267.38 --> 3273.90] looking at, and I spent time in the Judean wilderness a few years ago, and we toured a -[3273.90 --> 3280.26] life-size replica of the tabernacle, and we heard all sorts of those connections, and it was super cool, -[3281.06 --> 3291.56] but the focus of the tabernacle for the life of the original hearer isn't about the particular -[3291.56 --> 3298.82] items of furniture or about how they are applied to the life of the Israelites. Instead, the focus -[3298.82 --> 3304.86] for the hearer is how these things function together, how the whole tabernacle functions, -[3304.86 --> 3311.22] and then eventually the temple, right, how it functions to move Israel's relationship to God -[3311.22 --> 3322.26] to a deeper and more intimate level. And I want to do the same. What matters to us this morning is that -[3322.26 --> 3330.96] same function, right, the function of the tabernacle to draw people into the presence of God. Now, if your -[3330.96 --> 3343.88] Bibles are open, jump to the end of the book, to chapter 40. Chapter 40 and verse 34 in Exodus ends by saying, -[3343.88 --> 3351.82] then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. -[3352.94 --> 3358.32] And Moses could not enter the tent of meeting because the cloud had settled on it, and the glory -[3358.32 --> 3365.96] of the Lord filled the tabernacle. In all the travels of the Israelites, whenever the cloud lifted from -[3365.96 --> 3372.16] above the tabernacle, they would set out. But if the cloud did not lift, they did not set out until -[3372.16 --> 3377.48] the day it lifted. And so the cloud of the Lord was over the tabernacle by day, and the fire was in the -[3377.48 --> 3387.04] cloud by night, and in sight of all the Israelites during all their travels. The cloud of God's presence -[3387.04 --> 3399.56] settled on the tabernacle, and the glory of the Lord filled it. The tabernacle is the place of God, -[3399.56 --> 3409.62] the dwelling place of God in the Israelite community. So I think it's important then for us in this space -[3409.62 --> 3416.60] and time to focus on the intention and the role the tabernacle played in the life of the Israelite. -[3416.60 --> 3422.30] To the Israelites. So the question for us, the appropriate question for us this morning is not -[3422.30 --> 3427.42] what do I do with this section, or what do I do with all these articles and the particular details -[3427.42 --> 3434.82] of it, but what does the tabernacle tell me about God and how he deals with his people? -[3435.86 --> 3440.86] In other words, the question is, what is the theology of tabernacle? -[3440.86 --> 3451.40] Now the tabernacle, and later the temple, along with everything that takes place in it and is placed -[3451.40 --> 3460.96] in it, are at the very center of Israel's relationship to God. And so throughout, whether or not it was -[3460.96 --> 3469.52] understood by those who practiced it, right, these institutions, these places and items are a symbol -[3469.52 --> 3477.38] of a higher, of a heavenly reality. For the people of Israel, it's through the tabernacle and then -[3477.38 --> 3482.06] through the temple as the dwelling place of God that God can be found. -[3484.60 --> 3492.84] Let me put it this way. The tabernacle is an earthly representation of a heavenly reality. -[3492.84 --> 3500.86] And in fact, just like in the Garden of Eden, way back in Genesis 1 and 2 at the beginning, just like -[3500.86 --> 3509.78] the Garden of Eden is the sort of center of creation and the place where God dwells, in fact, in Jewish -[3509.78 --> 3514.90] rabbinical tradition, the Garden of Eden and heaven are almost one and the same thing. -[3516.36 --> 3521.22] Just like the Garden of Eden is the place where God dwells and it's the center of creation, -[3521.22 --> 3530.10] so too the tabernacle is in the center of the Israelite camp and all of life is centered around -[3530.10 --> 3531.60] the presence of God. -[3534.06 --> 3540.50] Now, if you've been with us in this look at the book of Exodus, we have seen over and over again -[3540.50 --> 3544.68] a return to this theme of creation and recreation. -[3544.68 --> 3553.22] In the plagues, we saw the creation order being undone for a period of time in order to allow -[3553.22 --> 3556.18] chaos, the plagues, to reign temporarily. -[3556.64 --> 3563.00] In the crossing of the Red Sea, we saw this formerly enslaved people emerging through that -[3563.00 --> 3567.94] sea into new life, recreated as these people. -[3567.94 --> 3574.42] In the Ten Commandments, we saw how an orderly God has intended for life to be ordered in -[3574.42 --> 3575.66] response to his grace. -[3576.86 --> 3582.94] Throughout the tabernacle story, allusions to the creation are made. -[3584.14 --> 3591.96] In fact, we don't have to look at this precisely, but six times in these first five chapters, or -[3591.96 --> 3598.04] these next five chapters, six times it says, and the Lord said to Moses, and then there -[3598.04 --> 3600.46] are instructions given on how to build the tabernacle. -[3601.24 --> 3609.08] And then in chapter 31, verse 12, it says, a seventh time, and the Lord said to Moses, -[3609.88 --> 3612.40] and then he gives instructions on the Sabbath. -[3613.84 --> 3614.28] Right? -[3614.28 --> 3620.58] It's as if, for God and for Israel, the tabernacle itself is an act of recreation. -[3621.16 --> 3621.24] Right? -[3621.32 --> 3626.92] God claiming a little bit of the fallen world for himself in order in which to dwell. -[3627.96 --> 3628.16] Right? -[3628.22 --> 3639.04] A residence among humanity who rejected him in Adam and Eve in the sanctuary that was Eden -[3639.04 --> 3641.28] in that little piece of heaven. -[3641.28 --> 3642.12] Right? -[3642.22 --> 3659.56] In the tabernacle, God is making himself a new sanctuary amid the wilderness of a sinful -[3659.56 --> 3660.54] world. -[3661.26 --> 3667.48] The tabernacle, and then the temple, is the center of Israel's religious life and activity -[3667.48 --> 3671.00] because that is the place where God dwells. -[3671.00 --> 3677.22] And without the temple and without the tabernacle, these people cease to be the active, worshiping -[3677.22 --> 3678.32] people of God. -[3679.30 --> 3686.08] In fact, the whole book of Exodus makes clear that by having these instructions at the climax, -[3686.16 --> 3692.06] where they spend, you know, some 15 chapters on this part of the relationship, the very purpose -[3692.06 --> 3700.28] for which Israel is recreated or is redeemed out of Egypt is to have God's visible presence -[3700.28 --> 3704.68] among them and for them to be a worshiping people. -[3704.68 --> 3715.46] And so, take that and all of that, that weight and that history, and then jump forward some -[3715.46 --> 3717.40] 1500 years. -[3717.76 --> 3717.90] Right? -[3717.96 --> 3723.30] All of that meaning gets added to in the tabernacle and the life of the temple for the Israelite. -[3723.30 --> 3729.74] And as we move forward from this time here in Exodus and in the wandering, eventually, as -[3729.74 --> 3735.02] the people come into the land, they take the tabernacle, the tent of meeting, and they set -[3735.02 --> 3736.38] it up in Shiloh. -[3736.78 --> 3738.86] And that becomes the center, the place. -[3738.98 --> 3746.34] And then eventually, Solomon builds a temple and he brings the Ark of the Covenant from the -[3746.34 --> 3753.04] tabernacle into the temple and all the people see the glory of God descend on the temple now. -[3753.30 --> 3755.98] The temple is the place where God resides. -[3756.66 --> 3760.96] Fast forward a few hundred years from there, that temple is destroyed when the people are -[3760.96 --> 3762.12] carried into exile. -[3762.74 --> 3768.02] Seventy years after the exile, people return, and you can read about it in Ezra and Nehemiah, -[3768.10 --> 3774.10] but a second temple is built and they too have a ceremony of commissioning where they -[3774.10 --> 3777.80] mark God's presence coming back in among the people. -[3777.98 --> 3783.14] And then fast forward another few hundred years in the time of Herod the Great, just -[3783.14 --> 3784.90] before Jesus' time. -[3785.62 --> 3790.84] Herod the Great, in order to win the favor of the Jewish people, commissions that temple, -[3791.00 --> 3794.74] that second temple, to be completely refurbished and done again. -[3796.18 --> 3802.46] And so take all of that history, right, all of that priority of place and of purpose and -[3802.46 --> 3809.94] identity and then read that behind Jesus' words in John 2, right? -[3809.98 --> 3815.12] In John 2, Jesus comes into the temple and it's during this time of Passover and money -[3815.12 --> 3818.30] changers and vendors have set up in the outer courts. -[3818.70 --> 3823.30] And Jesus, if you know the story, he fashions a whip and he turns tables over, he kicks everyone -[3823.30 --> 3827.34] out and the leaders come up to him and they say, by what authority do you do this? -[3827.34 --> 3836.60] And Jesus says to them, destroy this temple and I will raise it in three days. -[3837.72 --> 3844.24] To which they replied, it has taken 46 years to build this temple and you are going to raise -[3844.24 --> 3845.22] it in three days? -[3846.36 --> 3850.82] Now that 46 years refers to the refurbishing of Herod the Great. -[3850.82 --> 3858.40] But really, the temple itself had been on these foundations for some thousand years before, -[3859.10 --> 3860.84] even if it was destroyed and rebuilt. -[3862.42 --> 3870.02] Now in that moment, John quickly adds that Jesus was talking about his body, right, the -[3870.02 --> 3874.42] temple of his body and his resurrection after he died. -[3874.46 --> 3877.44] But the Jews to whom he was speaking didn't know that. -[3877.44 --> 3882.64] But Jesus is changing something. -[3883.34 --> 3891.12] Or to be more precise, Jesus' incarnation changed something about how the presence of God is -[3891.12 --> 3893.02] mediated to the world. -[3894.10 --> 3894.58] Right? -[3894.64 --> 3902.88] From the text of John, an illustration that something has fundamentally changed, John is -[3902.88 --> 3907.68] showing us that something has fundamentally changed in the coming of Jesus in the theology -[3907.68 --> 3910.42] of tabernacle, right, of God's presence. -[3911.42 --> 3916.52] In fact, John makes this point even more explicit in his opening chapter. -[3917.38 --> 3920.38] In John 1, verse 14, you can read, -[3920.64 --> 3924.46] The word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. -[3924.46 --> 3932.16] You might not see it in English, but that word that's translated dwelling is from the Greek -[3932.16 --> 3932.94] word skeno. -[3933.38 --> 3939.32] It's the verbal form of the word that the Greek translation of the Old Testament used for -[3939.32 --> 3940.30] tabernacle. -[3941.62 --> 3943.84] And so, to make the point more explicit, we can say, -[3943.84 --> 3950.76] Jesus, the word who was with God and who was God, the one in whom we see the glory of the -[3950.76 --> 3957.64] one and only, full of grace and truth, Jesus tabernacled among his people. -[3959.10 --> 3959.20] Right? -[3959.26 --> 3968.06] John's intention in this gospel is to show that Jesus is the new, improved temple or tabernacle. -[3968.06 --> 3975.00] To use the language that I used earlier, right, in Jesus, God is revealing himself as the true -[3975.00 --> 3978.28] sanctuary amid the wilderness of a sinful world. -[3979.12 --> 3979.68] Right? -[3979.78 --> 3986.70] For us, and to see Jesus is to see God revealing himself as the true sanctuary amid the wilderness -[3986.70 --> 3987.76] of a sinful world. -[3988.72 --> 3997.06] Again, let me be really clear, because this new system, this new revelation doesn't replace -[3997.06 --> 4000.22] the old system because it was somehow broken. -[4001.32 --> 4008.44] Rather, this new system in Jesus is the culmination of what we read here in Exodus 25. -[4009.22 --> 4009.36] Right? -[4009.46 --> 4013.28] Jesus is the culmination of what this old system pointed to. -[4014.52 --> 4022.84] One writer said that the glory that resided above the ark in the most holy place, to which -[4022.84 --> 4030.00] the high priest had access only once a year, is in Jesus walking the streets of Jerusalem. -[4030.78 --> 4032.00] I love that image. -[4032.60 --> 4032.74] Right? -[4032.80 --> 4039.08] The glory that descends onto the tabernacle, the glory that descended onto the temple, is -[4039.08 --> 4043.20] in Jesus walking the streets of Jerusalem. -[4044.10 --> 4050.00] And this theme of temple and tabernacle in Jesus is woven right through the whole of the -[4050.00 --> 4050.30] Bible. -[4050.80 --> 4051.32] Right? -[4051.38 --> 4059.28] In Revelation 21, with the now return of Jesus to this earth at the head of the armies -[4059.28 --> 4065.66] of all those who have gone on before us, and the descent of the new Jerusalem, the heavenly -[4065.66 --> 4072.24] city, we read that there will be no temple in this city for Revelation 21, verse 22. -[4072.64 --> 4076.76] The Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. -[4076.76 --> 4083.72] So the dawning of this new age, the end of history as we know it, the very presence of -[4083.72 --> 4089.56] God will again be in the midst of his people without being confined to a particular space -[4089.56 --> 4090.50] or location. -[4091.38 --> 4097.14] And like how the Garden of Eden and heaven are the same, so too in the new creation, when -[4097.14 --> 4100.22] heaven comes down, but not to one spot. -[4100.58 --> 4100.72] Right? -[4100.72 --> 4103.90] All earth will be like the Garden was. -[4104.40 --> 4106.76] That is the place of God's presence. -[4109.52 --> 4114.86] And there's yet one more way that the temple and tabernacle has changed. -[4115.34 --> 4120.90] As we wait for that glorious day, some time to come and come quickly, we pray. -[4120.90 --> 4128.60] As we wait for that day, there is another state of God's tabernacling that we find ourselves -[4128.60 --> 4129.32] part of. -[4131.06 --> 4138.40] After Jesus' resurrection, he ascended into heaven, but not before he promised his continued -[4138.40 --> 4141.96] dwelling with his people by the Holy Spirit. -[4142.96 --> 4143.08] Right? -[4143.14 --> 4149.30] And more than abide with us by the Holy Spirit, Jesus abides in us. -[4149.30 --> 4149.76] Right? -[4149.82 --> 4154.94] The dwelling place of God is now the very hearts of those who believe. -[4154.94 --> 4161.54] The throne of God is not the Ark of the Covenant, but it is now the heart of every man and woman -[4161.54 --> 4164.78] and child who confesses Jesus as Lord. -[4165.62 --> 4171.82] And so in that same way that we have been talking, in you now, in you, God is making himself -[4171.82 --> 4176.08] a new sanctuary amid the wilderness of a sinful world. -[4176.08 --> 4182.04] The Apostle Paul says in 1 Corinthians, -[4183.46 --> 4189.16] Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you? -[4189.64 --> 4191.12] And then again in chapter 6, he says, -[4191.48 --> 4196.72] Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have -[4196.72 --> 4198.30] received from God? -[4198.40 --> 4200.26] You are not your own. -[4200.26 --> 4204.96] The church, and by this I mean individual believers, right? -[4205.18 --> 4209.74] The church, collectively and individually, is the place where God dwells. -[4210.32 --> 4216.32] The tabernacle of God, once external, is now internal in your hearts and souls. -[4216.78 --> 4219.00] We are the tabernacle of God. -[4219.10 --> 4222.70] God has taken residence in each of us who believe. -[4222.70 --> 4233.92] And what's more, God now reveals himself in part through each of us in whom he dwells. -[4236.50 --> 4237.92] So what does this mean? -[4239.42 --> 4242.94] We're going to look at two, maybe three things. -[4244.06 --> 4250.72] First, what this means, contrary to what some of us think and what some of us pray, -[4250.72 --> 4254.76] the church building is not house of God. -[4256.44 --> 4262.24] How many times have you prayed or heard, right, we come to the house of God to worship him? -[4262.66 --> 4266.22] Or how many of us have prayed, right, we thank you that we can come to your house? -[4267.20 --> 4271.98] Right, the dwelling place of God is not contained in these four walls. -[4272.72 --> 4278.76] Right, the dwelling place of God is not contingent upon us creating some sort of sacred space -[4278.76 --> 4283.24] with the right decorations and the right appointments and having the right ceremonies of anointing. -[4283.72 --> 4290.98] The dwelling place of God is within each of us who have been touched and filled with the Holy Spirit. -[4291.26 --> 4294.94] The church is not a building, it is a people, it is you. -[4297.74 --> 4301.74] Now the people probably need a place to gather. -[4302.66 --> 4303.88] And so maybe we have buildings. -[4303.88 --> 4306.34] Notice the probably and the maybe. -[4307.22 --> 4308.22] Because it's not necessary. -[4309.44 --> 4312.38] You are the dwelling place of God. -[4312.58 --> 4316.72] The church is the people who have God with them and that's why we gather. -[4317.22 --> 4321.26] Right, that's why the rhythms of religious practice are so important. -[4321.26 --> 4326.34] Because we are cultivating God's presence in our hearts and in our lives. -[4326.34 --> 4333.46] We gather together as the body, as the church, precisely because God dwells in us. -[4333.68 --> 4342.04] Or because there's a small part of our hearts or our mind that is longing for something that we just can't yet begin to explain. -[4342.30 --> 4346.10] Longing for God to dwell in us more and more. -[4346.10 --> 4356.18] Worship, like the tabernacle then, is a place where heaven and earth meet. -[4357.52 --> 4362.62] Where we come together and we have a foretaste of the kingdom of God. -[4363.46 --> 4368.60] We set one day apart in seven as a matter of following created order. -[4368.76 --> 4372.42] Yes, to rest in God and to find God in us. -[4372.42 --> 4375.14] It's about God's presence. -[4376.10 --> 4383.80] And corporate worship then, as a foretaste of the heavenly banquet to come, is a taste of eternity. -[4384.06 --> 4391.42] And as Ecclesiastes says, God has placed eternity in every person's heart. -[4392.54 --> 4398.06] Now the second thing is regarding then what we put into our temples. -[4398.06 --> 4412.80] If our hearts, or more comprehensively, our entire selves, our heart and our souls and our minds are the dwelling place of God, -[4413.80 --> 4423.20] should we not then be careful of what we expose our hearts to or what we take into our temples? -[4423.20 --> 4432.44] When Paul was writing in 1 Corinthians 6, he's referring to certain illicit sexual practices of the Corinthian church. -[4432.78 --> 4437.64] But in our culture, just like the Corinthian culture, we are tempted to say things like, -[4438.00 --> 4438.96] it's only sex. -[4439.28 --> 4440.20] It's no big deal. -[4441.44 --> 4443.14] But that misses the point entirely. -[4443.14 --> 4447.76] If you are a temple of God, it's not just sex. -[4450.84 --> 4455.42] But it's something you are building in your temple. -[4456.00 --> 4458.96] And I think actually that the analogy can go further. -[4459.84 --> 4466.26] In the construction of the tabernacle, and if you spend time this week reading through these next few chapters, -[4466.26 --> 4470.40] you will see that they are incredibly precise, -[4470.72 --> 4476.66] and that not even the slightest deviation from the instructions would be tolerated or accepted. -[4477.12 --> 4480.82] There can be no deviation from God's demands and his design. -[4481.26 --> 4487.06] And yet, how many of us, when we think about our bodies now as a temple of the Lord, -[4487.16 --> 4490.90] have that same high bar, that same high standard? -[4490.90 --> 4493.44] And remember the order from a couple weeks ago, right? -[4493.48 --> 4495.98] We don't demand a high bar in order to get in. -[4496.26 --> 4500.34] The bar is high as a response for those who are in. -[4501.58 --> 4503.76] But how many of us go through life thinking, -[4504.46 --> 4506.40] just a little pornography? -[4508.12 --> 4509.74] Go through life thinking, -[4510.00 --> 4513.18] it's just a little gratuitous violence. -[4513.62 --> 4514.66] It's just a little gore. -[4514.74 --> 4516.42] It's just a little bad language. -[4516.42 --> 4520.32] How many of us gorge ourselves on gossip or on slander? -[4520.32 --> 4525.02] How many of us have become obese with hatred and anger that we just can't get rid of? -[4525.26 --> 4526.92] These are the appointments of your temple. -[4528.56 --> 4530.66] Consciously or unconsciously, -[4530.76 --> 4535.18] our lives are a struggle between giving God the throne of our hearts -[4535.18 --> 4538.88] and putting other things, idolatrous things, in his place. -[4539.36 --> 4544.08] You, you are a temple of God. -[4544.08 --> 4545.20] And hear that this morning, -[4545.58 --> 4547.72] not with guilt or with judgment, -[4547.94 --> 4551.44] but with grace and with aspiration to who God is. -[4551.76 --> 4554.32] You are a temple of God. -[4554.40 --> 4558.46] Hear that with all the worth that it puts into your being -[4558.46 --> 4562.56] and into your heart and mind about who you are in Christ Jesus. -[4562.92 --> 4565.24] You are a temple of God. -[4565.24 --> 4569.36] But when you look at your life, -[4571.00 --> 4571.70] is that what you see? -[4574.94 --> 4576.96] Is that how you've treated? -[4579.36 --> 4581.32] And finally, lastly, -[4582.12 --> 4585.32] as you ask yourselves that question, -[4586.32 --> 4590.38] the question about what we have put into our temples, -[4591.18 --> 4592.78] we come to the heart of it. -[4592.78 --> 4594.48] Because you see, -[4594.54 --> 4597.78] this is another reason why we need corporate worship -[4597.78 --> 4599.16] and why corporate worship, -[4599.32 --> 4603.56] why gathering together as brothers and sisters is so important. -[4604.10 --> 4607.28] We gather the body of those who believe -[4607.28 --> 4610.34] in order to hear this message. -[4610.98 --> 4613.96] We come to hear the message of forgiveness. -[4614.82 --> 4616.90] We come to hear the message of grace. -[4617.18 --> 4618.00] We come to, -[4618.30 --> 4620.24] by the working of God's Holy Spirit -[4620.24 --> 4622.40] in unique and powerful ways, -[4622.40 --> 4623.28] in our gathering, -[4623.28 --> 4626.78] to receive strength and courage to go on. -[4627.98 --> 4628.90] Right here, -[4629.12 --> 4630.68] we are called to repentance. -[4631.48 --> 4632.24] And here, -[4632.40 --> 4633.92] we find assurance. -[4635.00 --> 4637.06] And that's not just some little thing -[4637.06 --> 4638.92] that the worship team leads every once in a while -[4638.92 --> 4639.62] that we tolerate -[4639.62 --> 4641.02] because we want to get to the next song. -[4641.74 --> 4644.28] That matters in what we do together. -[4644.90 --> 4645.10] Right? -[4645.16 --> 4647.74] We are here to hear the gospel proclaimed -[4647.74 --> 4650.76] to the darkest corners of our hearts and our minds. -[4650.76 --> 4653.98] We are here to have the truth told -[4653.98 --> 4657.14] that we are lavishly loved children of God. -[4657.22 --> 4660.56] We are here to be emboldened by the gospel of Jesus. -[4660.76 --> 4663.36] We are here to be empowered by the Holy Spirit. -[4663.64 --> 4664.32] And here, -[4664.50 --> 4665.26] you are told, -[4665.46 --> 4667.08] week in and week out, -[4667.34 --> 4669.42] that even though I am more sinful -[4669.42 --> 4670.90] than I could ever dare admit -[4670.90 --> 4672.26] or really ever even know, -[4672.26 --> 4674.48] I am yet more loved -[4674.48 --> 4677.18] than I could ever imagine possible. -[4677.84 --> 4679.48] And that out of that love, -[4679.68 --> 4681.74] Jesus came into the world. -[4681.90 --> 4682.18] Jesus, -[4682.42 --> 4683.94] the true and better temple. -[4684.18 --> 4686.32] Jesus tabernacled among us -[4686.32 --> 4688.48] to live the perfect life of righteousness -[4688.48 --> 4691.10] and to fulfill the demands of the law. -[4691.36 --> 4693.10] And that his death on the cross -[4693.10 --> 4695.60] was the great once for all sacrifice -[4695.60 --> 4698.02] that all other sacrifices have pointed to. -[4698.02 --> 4701.08] And that his resurrection out of that grave -[4701.08 --> 4704.12] is God's victory over sin and death. -[4704.22 --> 4706.98] And it is a guarantee of my resurrection. -[4707.16 --> 4710.16] It is a guarantee of your resurrection by grace. -[4710.44 --> 4712.20] That his exaltation now -[4712.20 --> 4713.62] to the right hand of God the Father, -[4713.72 --> 4715.58] that every knee should bow and tongue confess -[4715.58 --> 4717.64] that Jesus Christ is Lord. -[4717.76 --> 4719.90] His exaltation is his reward. -[4720.24 --> 4723.68] And my exalting him is my reward. -[4724.34 --> 4726.48] His glory is my joy. -[4728.02 --> 4730.84] And as he is seated at the right hand of the Father, -[4731.42 --> 4735.82] he and the Father send the Spirit to us. -[4737.16 --> 4739.76] Be his presence in me. -[4740.98 --> 4743.86] Be my life, Christ. -[4746.16 --> 4747.42] And so now, -[4748.34 --> 4750.46] make sure you hear this. -[4750.46 --> 4753.96] If that message, -[4754.38 --> 4755.60] that truth, -[4755.94 --> 4758.50] is only ever heard in here, -[4758.60 --> 4760.80] in this churchy space, -[4761.46 --> 4763.46] or you only ever hear that up here, -[4763.58 --> 4766.14] bouncing around in your mind space, -[4766.50 --> 4767.94] you're missing the point. -[4769.38 --> 4769.58] Right? -[4769.64 --> 4771.12] We gather here -[4771.12 --> 4773.78] in order to scatter out there. -[4773.92 --> 4775.26] We journey in -[4775.26 --> 4777.20] in order to journey out. -[4777.46 --> 4777.60] Right? -[4777.60 --> 4779.52] God tabernacles in us -[4779.52 --> 4781.80] so that we can bring his presence -[4781.80 --> 4783.16] out to the world -[4783.16 --> 4785.88] as we go from this place. -[4786.02 --> 4787.98] We gather to scatter. -[4788.14 --> 4789.14] It's the very identity -[4789.14 --> 4790.22] of what we do here, -[4790.28 --> 4791.62] the very core of what we do here. -[4791.86 --> 4794.36] We gather in the presence of God -[4794.36 --> 4797.80] to be filled by the presence of God, -[4797.90 --> 4800.18] to go with the presence of God, -[4800.18 --> 4803.64] to be the presence of God -[4803.64 --> 4804.80] in the world. -[4806.72 --> 4807.94] We gather -[4807.94 --> 4809.66] to scatter. -[4810.64 --> 4812.04] What we do here -[4812.04 --> 4813.82] has a direct impact -[4813.82 --> 4815.62] on what you do out there -[4815.62 --> 4816.70] and vice versa -[4816.70 --> 4817.58] as you bring that -[4817.58 --> 4819.08] into this place. -[4820.38 --> 4822.82] The worship that starts here -[4822.82 --> 4823.76] continues -[4823.76 --> 4825.20] out there. -[4825.68 --> 4826.82] In a different way, -[4827.00 --> 4827.26] sure, -[4827.60 --> 4828.08] absolutely, -[4828.50 --> 4828.76] but -[4828.76 --> 4830.80] because God goes with you, -[4830.80 --> 4832.46] if you are a plumber, -[4832.76 --> 4833.88] you do that as worship. -[4834.56 --> 4836.10] Because God goes with you, -[4836.14 --> 4837.14] if you are a teacher, -[4837.48 --> 4839.02] you do that as worship. -[4839.20 --> 4840.62] Because God goes with you, -[4840.92 --> 4842.10] the how and the why -[4842.10 --> 4842.80] of your plumbing -[4842.80 --> 4843.82] or of your teaching -[4843.82 --> 4845.14] or of your policing -[4845.14 --> 4846.28] or your politicking -[4846.28 --> 4847.16] or your parenting, -[4847.60 --> 4848.14] your nursing -[4848.14 --> 4849.10] or your volunteering, -[4849.50 --> 4851.16] because God goes with you, -[4851.26 --> 4852.74] the how and the why -[4852.74 --> 4855.06] is part of what it means for you, -[4855.46 --> 4856.82] the individual you, -[4856.94 --> 4858.22] the particular you now, -[4858.22 --> 4859.62] to be on mission -[4859.62 --> 4861.02] with him -[4861.02 --> 4862.08] in the world, -[4862.42 --> 4864.68] to be God's tabernacle -[4864.68 --> 4866.36] in the world, -[4866.98 --> 4868.30] the place where he dwells. -[4869.52 --> 4871.72] The how of God's presence -[4871.72 --> 4872.42] in the world -[4872.42 --> 4874.70] has fundamentally shifted -[4874.70 --> 4876.14] from the tabernacle -[4876.14 --> 4877.00] as a tent -[4877.00 --> 4878.14] to you -[4878.14 --> 4880.54] as God's tabernacle. -[4881.70 --> 4882.10] You, -[4882.40 --> 4883.88] how you live, -[4883.98 --> 4885.20] how you love, -[4885.42 --> 4885.66] you, -[4885.66 --> 4886.86] how you lead -[4886.86 --> 4888.32] and how you follow, -[4888.52 --> 4888.72] you, -[4888.86 --> 4889.94] how you serve -[4889.94 --> 4891.86] and how you receive service, -[4892.28 --> 4892.44] you, -[4892.60 --> 4893.32] how you work -[4893.32 --> 4894.34] and how you rest. -[4894.76 --> 4897.48] You are the presence of God. -[4897.90 --> 4899.68] You reveal him -[4899.68 --> 4900.94] and his kingdom come -[4900.94 --> 4903.06] and his kingdom come. -[4904.46 --> 4907.78] That is a mission worth living. -[4908.14 --> 4912.86] That is a purpose worth going after. -[4912.86 --> 4916.28] That is your life -[4916.28 --> 4919.06] of worship. -[4920.36 --> 4923.36] You are the presence of God -[4923.36 --> 4925.88] for those around us -[4925.88 --> 4928.40] because God's presence -[4928.40 --> 4929.94] lives in. -[4931.40 --> 4932.08] Amen? -[4932.94 --> 4933.62] Amen. -[4933.88 --> 4934.26] Let's pray. -[4934.26 --> 4940.44] Holy, -[4940.44 --> 4942.64] heavenly God, -[4943.64 --> 4946.90] may we -[4946.90 --> 4949.04] know -[4949.04 --> 4950.60] your presence -[4950.60 --> 4952.76] among us. -[4953.62 --> 4954.68] May we know -[4954.68 --> 4955.54] your presence -[4955.54 --> 4956.48] in -[4956.48 --> 4957.48] us. -[4959.02 --> 4959.62] And now, -[4959.76 --> 4960.72] as we go -[4960.72 --> 4961.76] on mission -[4961.76 --> 4962.92] with you, -[4963.66 --> 4964.62] as we go, -[4964.78 --> 4965.44] may we go -[4965.44 --> 4966.50] to reveal -[4966.50 --> 4967.22] you -[4967.22 --> 4968.20] to the world -[4968.20 --> 4969.32] in all that we do. -[4970.14 --> 4970.88] May we go -[4970.88 --> 4972.10] with a boldness -[4972.10 --> 4972.92] that comes -[4972.92 --> 4974.12] from your spirit -[4974.12 --> 4975.68] within our hearts, -[4977.10 --> 4977.92] pouring out -[4977.92 --> 4979.56] your love. -[4981.08 --> 4981.84] Send us out -[4981.84 --> 4982.14] now -[4982.14 --> 4982.98] with this -[4982.98 --> 4983.82] purpose, -[4983.94 --> 4984.68] this purpose -[4984.68 --> 4985.68] of worship -[4985.68 --> 4986.78] and mission. -[4987.98 --> 4988.96] Send us out -[4988.96 --> 4989.54] because -[4989.54 --> 4991.12] in Jesus Christ -[4991.12 --> 4992.26] your presence -[4992.26 --> 4993.04] among us -[4993.04 --> 4994.24] has changed -[4994.24 --> 4995.92] deeply, -[4997.74 --> 4998.36] powerfully. -[5000.30 --> 5001.14] And that now -[5001.14 --> 5002.00] by your spirit -[5002.00 --> 5003.32] we have changed -[5003.32 --> 5003.94] deeply -[5003.94 --> 5005.96] and with your power. -[5007.30 --> 5008.24] It's in the name -[5008.24 --> 5009.12] of Jesus Christ -[5009.12 --> 5009.68] we pray -[5009.68 --> 5010.70] and in the power -[5010.70 --> 5011.78] of your spirit -[5011.78 --> 5012.18] we go. -[5014.86 --> 5015.38] Amen. -[5018.96 --> 5041.28] Facing a test -[5041.28 --> 5042.52] and finish -[5042.52 --> 5044.56] that drives us -[5044.56 --> 5046.74] to our knees -[5046.74 --> 5048.26] a need -[5048.26 --> 5051.42] that's undiminished -[5051.42 --> 5053.04] destroys us -[5053.04 --> 5055.08] draw for ease. -[5055.74 --> 5056.76] We who -[5056.76 --> 5057.80] we cease -[5057.80 --> 5058.96] to know -[5058.96 --> 5059.76] thee -[5059.76 --> 5060.64] renew -[5060.64 --> 5062.02] before -[5062.02 --> 5063.46] your throne -[5063.46 --> 5065.52] the solemn -[5065.52 --> 5066.44] pledge -[5066.44 --> 5068.06] we owe -[5068.06 --> 5068.40] thee -[5068.40 --> 5069.62] to go -[5069.62 --> 5070.66] and make -[5070.66 --> 5072.20] thee known. -[5072.20 --> 5073.20] Amen. -[5073.20 --> 5074.20] Amen. -[5074.20 --> 5075.20] Amen. -[5075.20 --> 5076.20] Amen. -[5076.20 --> 5076.70] Amen. -[5076.74 --> 5080.36] Where other -[5080.36 --> 5081.12] lords -[5081.12 --> 5082.12] beside -[5082.12 --> 5083.34] thee -[5083.34 --> 5083.84] O -[5083.84 --> 5084.38] their -[5084.38 --> 5085.50] unhidden -[5085.50 --> 5086.74] sway -[5086.74 --> 5087.94] Where -[5087.94 --> 5088.72] forces -[5088.72 --> 5089.68] that -[5089.68 --> 5091.30] defile -[5091.30 --> 5091.64] thee -[5091.64 --> 5092.92] defy -[5092.92 --> 5093.38] thee -[5093.38 --> 5093.92] till -[5093.92 --> 5094.98] today -[5094.98 --> 5096.58] With -[5096.58 --> 5097.06] none -[5097.06 --> 5098.14] to heed -[5098.14 --> 5098.58] their -[5098.58 --> 5099.82] crying -[5099.82 --> 5100.72] For -[5100.72 --> 5101.62] life -[5101.62 --> 5102.36] and love -[5102.36 --> 5102.82] and -[5102.82 --> 5103.92] light -[5103.92 --> 5106.00] Unnumbered -[5106.00 --> 5106.54] souls -[5106.54 --> 5107.02] souls are -[5107.02 --> 5108.46] dying -[5108.46 --> 5109.20] and -[5109.20 --> 5109.88] passing -[5109.88 --> 5110.76] through -[5110.76 --> 5111.32] the -[5111.32 --> 5113.12] night -[5113.12 --> 5115.22] We -[5115.22 --> 5116.00] go -[5116.00 --> 5116.66] through -[5116.66 --> 5117.68] all the -[5117.68 --> 5118.90] world -[5118.90 --> 5119.56] with -[5119.56 --> 5120.62] kingdom -[5120.62 --> 5121.66] hope -[5121.66 --> 5123.12] unfurled -[5123.12 --> 5123.96] For -[5123.96 --> 5125.00] all the -[5125.00 --> 5125.82] name -[5125.82 --> 5126.10] has -[5126.10 --> 5126.84] power -[5126.84 --> 5127.66] to save -[5127.66 --> 5128.18] but -[5128.18 --> 5128.84] Jesus -[5128.84 --> 5130.00] Christ -[5130.00 --> 5130.02] Christ -[5130.02 --> 5130.38] the -[5130.38 --> 5131.30] Lord -[5131.30 --> 5138.58] We -[5138.58 --> 5139.36] bear -[5139.36 --> 5139.92] the -[5139.92 --> 5140.52] torch -[5140.52 --> 5141.02] that -[5141.02 --> 5142.22] flaming -[5142.22 --> 5143.14] fell -[5143.14 --> 5143.72] from -[5143.72 --> 5144.32] the -[5144.32 --> 5144.92] hands -[5144.92 --> 5145.40] of -[5145.40 --> 5146.50] those -[5146.50 --> 5147.36] who -[5147.36 --> 5148.10] gave -[5148.10 --> 5148.60] their -[5148.60 --> 5149.18] life -[5149.18 --> 5151.34] proclaiming -[5151.34 --> 5151.90] that -[5151.90 --> 5152.58] Jesus -[5152.58 --> 5153.60] died -[5153.60 --> 5154.10] and -[5154.10 --> 5155.26] rose -[5155.26 --> 5156.38] ours -[5156.38 --> 5157.36] is the -[5157.36 --> 5157.90] same -[5157.90 --> 5159.62] commission -[5159.62 --> 5160.60] the -[5160.60 --> 5161.48] same -[5161.48 --> 5162.56] battalion -[5162.56 --> 5163.98] arms -[5163.98 --> 5164.94] fired -[5164.94 --> 5166.04] by the -[5166.04 --> 5166.64] same -[5166.64 --> 5168.30] ambition -[5168.30 --> 5169.94] to thee -[5169.94 --> 5170.24] we -[5170.24 --> 5171.08] yield -[5171.08 --> 5171.56] our -[5171.56 --> 5172.68] power -[5172.68 --> 5174.68] we -[5174.68 --> 5175.68] go -[5175.68 --> 5177.06] to -[5177.06 --> 5177.68] all -[5177.68 --> 5178.16] the -[5178.16 --> 5179.32] world -[5179.32 --> 5179.68] with -[5180.26 --> 5180.68] kingdom -[5181.22 --> 5181.68] hope -[5182.26 --> 5183.68] unfurled -[5183.68 --> 5184.38] no -[5184.38 --> 5184.68] other -[5184.68 --> 5185.68] name -[5185.68 --> 5186.88] has -[5186.88 --> 5187.68] power -[5187.68 --> 5188.48] to save -[5188.48 --> 5189.02] but -[5189.02 --> 5189.68] Jesus -[5189.68 --> 5190.92] Christ -[5190.92 --> 5191.28] the -[5191.28 --> 5192.68] Lord -[5192.68 --> 5193.68] our -[5193.68 --> 5194.68] love -[5194.68 --> 5195.68] to -[5195.68 --> 5197.68] our -[5197.68 --> 5198.68] father -[5198.68 --> 5199.68] who -[5199.68 --> 5200.68] sustains -[5200.68 --> 5201.56] them -[5201.56 --> 5201.68] oh -[5201.68 --> 5202.68] spirit -[5202.68 --> 5203.68] who -[5203.68 --> 5204.68] inspired -[5204.68 --> 5205.68] Savior -[5205.68 --> 5206.68] whose -[5206.68 --> 5207.68] love -[5207.68 --> 5208.68] constrains -[5208.68 --> 5209.68] them -[5209.68 --> 5210.68] to -[5210.68 --> 5211.68] toil -[5211.68 --> 5212.68] with -[5212.68 --> 5213.68] seal -[5213.68 --> 5214.68] untired -[5214.68 --> 5215.68] from -[5215.68 --> 5216.68] cowardice -[5216.68 --> 5217.68] defend -[5217.68 --> 5218.68] us -[5218.68 --> 5219.68] from -[5219.68 --> 5220.68] leper -[5220.68 --> 5221.68] lepergy -[5221.68 --> 5222.68] awake -[5222.68 --> 5224.68] forth -[5224.68 --> 5225.68] on -[5225.68 --> 5226.68] thine -[5226.68 --> 5227.68] errands -[5227.68 --> 5228.68] send -[5228.68 --> 5229.68] us -[5229.68 --> 5230.68] to -[5230.68 --> 5231.68] labor -[5231.68 --> 5232.68] for -[5232.68 --> 5233.68] thy -[5233.68 --> 5234.68] sake -[5234.68 --> 5235.68] we -[5235.68 --> 5236.68] go -[5236.68 --> 5237.68] to -[5237.68 --> 5238.68] all -[5238.68 --> 5239.68] the -[5239.68 --> 5240.68] world -[5240.68 --> 5241.68] with -[5241.68 --> 5242.68] kingdom -[5242.68 --> 5243.68] hope -[5243.68 --> 5244.68] unfurled -[5244.68 --> 5245.68] no -[5245.68 --> 5246.68] other -[5246.68 --> 5247.68] name -[5247.68 --> 5248.68] has -[5248.68 --> 5249.68] power -[5249.68 --> 5250.68] power -[5250.68 --> 5251.68] to -[5251.68 --> 5252.68] save -[5252.68 --> 5253.68] but -[5253.68 --> 5254.68] Jesus -[5254.68 --> 5255.68] Christ -[5255.68 --> 5256.68] the -[5256.68 --> 5257.68] Lord -[5257.68 --> 5258.68] Jesus -[5258.68 --> 5259.68] Christ -[5259.68 --> 5260.68] the -[5260.68 --> 5261.68] Lord -[5261.68 --> 5262.68] we -[5262.68 --> 5263.68] go -[5263.68 --> 5264.68] to -[5264.68 --> 5265.68] all -[5265.68 --> 5266.68] the world -[5266.68 --> 5267.68] his kingdom -[5267.68 --> 5268.68] hope -[5268.68 --> 5269.68] unfurled -[5269.68 --> 5270.68] no -[5270.68 --> 5271.68] other -[5271.68 --> 5272.68] name -[5272.68 --> 5273.68] has -[5273.68 --> 5274.68] power -[5274.68 --> 5275.68] to -[5275.68 --> 5276.68] save -[5276.68 --> 5277.68] but -[5277.68 --> 5279.68] grace -[5279.68 --> 5280.68] through -[5280.68 --> 5281.68] faith -[5281.68 --> 5284.68] and by -[5284.68 --> 5285.68] the -[5285.68 --> 5286.68] Holy Spirit -[5286.68 --> 5287.68] you -[5287.68 --> 5288.68] are the -[5288.68 --> 5289.68] presence of -[5289.68 --> 5290.68] God -[5290.68 --> 5291.68] in the world -[5291.68 --> 5292.68] but know that he goes with you -[5292.68 --> 5293.68] and so receive -[5293.68 --> 5294.68] his blessing -[5294.68 --> 5296.68] for the journey of life -[5296.68 --> 5297.68] and faith -[5297.68 --> 5298.68] in him -[5299.68 --> 5301.68] God go before you -[5301.68 --> 5302.68] to lead you -[5303.68 --> 5305.68] God go behind you -[5305.68 --> 5307.68] to guard you -[5307.68 --> 5308.68] God go beneath you -[5308.68 --> 5309.68] to support you -[5309.68 --> 5312.68] God go beside you -[5312.68 --> 5313.68] befriend you -[5314.68 --> 5315.68] God go within you -[5315.68 --> 5317.68] be near you -[5317.68 --> 5319.68] with you -[5319.68 --> 5320.68] always -[5320.68 --> 5321.68] and forever -[5321.68 --> 5322.68] do not -[5322.68 --> 5323.68] be -[5323.68 --> 5324.68] afraid -[5324.68 --> 5325.68] let the blessing -[5325.68 --> 5326.68] and the presence of God -[5326.68 --> 5327.68] come upon you today -[5327.68 --> 5329.68] do not be afraid -[5329.68 --> 5330.68] but go -[5330.68 --> 5331.68] in peace -[5331.68 --> 5332.68] to love -[5332.68 --> 5333.68] and worship -[5333.68 --> 5334.68] him -[5334.68 --> 5335.68] amen -[5335.68 --> 5336.68] amen -[5336.68 --> 5338.68] salvation belongs to our God -[5338.68 --> 5339.68] who stands upon the throne of God -[5339.68 --> 5340.68] who stands upon the throne of God -[5340.68 --> 5342.68] salvation belongs to our God -[5342.68 --> 5343.68] who stands upon the throne of God -[5343.68 --> 5344.68] and on the throne of God -[5344.68 --> 5346.68] and on the throne of God -[5346.68 --> 5349.68] salvation belongs to our God -[5349.68 --> 5350.68] who stands upon the throne of God -[5350.68 --> 5352.68] who stands upon the throne of God -[5352.68 --> 5353.68] and unto the Lamb -[5353.68 --> 5354.68] salvation belongs to our God -[5354.68 --> 5355.68] who stands upon themi -[5355.68 --> 5360.68] and on the throne of God -[5360.68 --> 5361.68] who stands upon Aha -[5361.68 --> 5381.44] who sits upon the throne and unto the land praise and glory wisdom and thanks honor and power -[5381.44 --> 5395.44] and strength be to our god forever and ever -[5395.44 --> 5421.44] amen and we the redeemed shall be strong in purpose and unity declaring our love -[5421.44 --> 5438.16] praise and glory wisdom and thanks honor and power and strength be to our god forever and ever -[5438.16 --> 5449.92] be to our god forever and ever be to our god forever and ever amen -[5451.44 --> 5472.16] be to our god forever and ever be to our god forever and ever amen -[5472.16 --> 5495.20] be to our god forever and ever be to our god forever and ever be to our god forever and ever amen -[5495.20 --> 5497.20] guitar solo -[5497.20 --> 5499.20] so -[5499.20 --> 5503.20] so -[5503.20 --> 5505.20] so -[5505.20 --> 5509.20] so -[5509.20 --> 5511.20] so -[5511.20 --> 5515.20] so -[5515.20 --> 5523.20] so -[5523.20 --> 5525.20] so -[5525.20 --> 5527.20] so -[5527.20 --> 5537.20] so -[5537.20 --> 5539.20] so -[5539.20 --> 5541.20] so -[5541.20 --> 5543.20] so -[5543.20 --> 5545.20] so -[5545.20 --> 5555.20] so -[5555.20 --> 5557.20] so -[5557.20 --> 5559.20] so -[5559.20 --> 5561.20] so -[5561.20 --> 5563.20] so -[5563.20 --> 5565.20] so diff --git a/Sunday Worship - March 27, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - March 27, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f6b444fa9586b3eaa6cbe4bf1edc588b49301410..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - March 27, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,89 +0,0 @@ -• Power of Jesus' name -• Miracles and healings -• Strongholds breaking -• Healing and restoration -• Importance of worship and prayer -• Church announcements and welcomes -• Introduction to church service -• Christ, the Son, and our Savior -• Philippians 2, verses 9 to 11 referenced -• Worship of God and Jesus Christ -• Importance of forgiveness through Jesus' sacrifice -• Praise and worship of God's love and goodness -• Creation and the earth making straight a path for the Lord -• Jesus is coming soon -• Jesus' return is imminent -• The church should be ready for Jesus' coming -• Comparison of the church to a bride waiting for her groom -• The importance of being prepared and having faith -• The promise of justice and new beginnings when Jesus returns -• Worship and adoration of Jesus Christ -• Importance of helping those in need, specifically poverty, homelessness, and addiction -• Psalm 34:9-10 is read -• Kids are welcome to join Kids' Corner -• Four clues are pulled out of a bag: lamb/sheep, money (silver coins), pizza dough/nan bread, and a bowl/towel -• Children discuss possible Bible stories related to each clue -• They correctly guess that the story might be about Jesus and the Last Supper -• Introduction to prayer and worship -• Announcement of Young Adults Potluck event -• Church family prayer led by Ken, an elder at Emmanuel -• Prayers for various individuals and groups: - • Those suffering from war in Ukraine - • Members with physical or mental health concerns - • Robin's dad, William, who is suffering from a blood infection - • Marriages and families within the congregation - • Parents raising children - • The Refugee Committee and Namur family application - • Sebastian, Sandy, and their two children seeking help -• The speaker prays for guidance and help in leading a church congregation. -• The speaker talks about work and its various perspectives, including loving or hating one's job. -• The first job in the Bible is mentioned as Adam being asked by God to name all animals. -• The speaker shows humorous examples of creative animal names from the internet. -• The main topic of the sermon is Sabbath rest, exploring what it means and how to achieve it. -• Summary of Exodus 31:12-17, emphasizing the importance of observing God's Sabbaths -• Connection between the Sabbath and creation, highlighting God's rest on the seventh day -• Importance of Sabbath rest in the Bible, including its inclusion among the Ten Commandments -• The purpose of Sabbath is to remember God and observe what He has done for us -• Discussion of how to approach Sabbath, avoiding legalism or casualness -• The focus of the Sabbath is not about doing or not doing, but rather a posture and perspective -• The two biggest obstacles to observing the Sabbath are busyness and legalism -• Sabbath is about remembering God's work and finding rest in Jesus Christ -• It's about ceasing from necessary activities and embracing life-giving ones -• Sabbath may look different for each person and can be tailored to their needs and preferences -• The goal of Sabbath is to remember who God is and observe what he has done, not to follow rules or do specific things. -• Sabbath is meant for a community, not an individual or nuclear family -• The Bible emphasizes that Sabbath is for God's people as a whole, throughout generations -• Communal language is used to describe Sabbath, including references to covenant and assembly -• Busyness and legalism can lead to neglect of the vulnerable in the community, contrary to God's will -• Jesus' healing on the Sabbath was seen as breaking rules by Pharisees -• The focus should be on serving and caring for others, rather than just resting or observing traditions. -• Observing Sabbath is not just for individuals but for the community to show God's love -• Sabbath has three parts: gathering, growing, and going out into the world -• The traditional understanding of Sabbath as a single holy day on Sunday may be incorrect -• Jesus came and redefined the boundaries of all commandments, including Sabbath -• Sabbath is now an eternal realization of rest in Jesus Christ, not just a weekly observance -• This eternal Sabbath starts when one believes in the gospel truth of Jesus Christ -• The concept of Sabbath and its significance in a Christian life -• Practicing rest on Sundays as a microcosm for living a new life in Jesus Christ -• God's Sabbath is for every day, not just Sunday -• Jesus' death and resurrection provided eternal rest and forgiveness -• Finding rest in Jesus through remembering and observing what he has done -• Importance of not being too busy to appreciate the gospel truth -• Avoiding legalism by making a new posture of giving burdens to Jesus -• The concept of rest and Sabbath is not just about stopping work on a specific day -• Rest is something that has already been gained through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus -• Believing in Jesus is not a once-a-week thing, but rather a constant presence in one's life -• The Sabbath has moved from a day to an eternity, and can be observed any day of the week -• Resting in Jesus allows for ultimate rest and freedom from the "rat race" of life -• Observing the Sabbath is not just about taking a day off, but about remembering what God has done and who He is -• The call to rest and observe the Sabbath is an invitation to know and experience God's holiness -• Prayer for rest and rejuvenation -• Praise and worship of God as Savior -• Acknowledgment of God's love and forgiveness -• Gratitude for salvation and freedom -• Reminder about a children's choir practice after the service -• Parting blessing and prayer in multiple languages -• Reading from Joshua 24:15 and choosing to serve the Lord -• Declaration of commitment and devotion to God -• Acknowledgment of communication -• Expression of gratitude \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - March 27, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - March 27, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index cd557a57469a79c29244e783fab4e336b8f3a522..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - March 27, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1171 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 13.20] The kind of daring expectation that every prayer I make is on an empty grave. -[14.40 --> 20.86] And that's the power of your name, just a mention makes a way. -[21.26 --> 26.60] Shining for his strongholds break and there is healing. -[26.60 --> 30.60] And that's the power that I claim. -[30.94 --> 34.04] It's the same that roved the grave. -[34.10 --> 39.54] And there's no power like the mighty name of Jesus. -[40.48 --> 46.08] There's no power like the mighty name of Jesus. -[47.58 --> 50.90] I see you taking ground. -[51.56 --> 54.28] I see you pressing ahead. -[54.28 --> 59.42] Your power is dangerous to the enemy's camp. -[60.72 --> 63.56] You still do miracles. -[64.30 --> 67.40] And you will do what you said. -[67.74 --> 72.56] For you're the same God now as you've always been. -[72.56 --> 76.90] And that's the power of your name. -[76.90 --> 79.90] Your kingdom moving in. -[80.54 --> 84.28] Your victory claims the ground of the enemy. -[85.28 --> 86.48] Yes, it did. -[86.48 --> 87.38] Yes, it did. -[87.38 --> 89.48] You still do miracles. -[90.24 --> 92.90] And you will do what you said. -[93.76 --> 98.24] For you're the same God now as you've always been. -[98.24 --> 100.24] And that's the power of your name. -[100.24 --> 101.92] And that's the power of your name. -[101.92 --> 105.22] Just a mention makes a way. -[105.58 --> 108.42] Die is false, strongholds break. -[108.68 --> 110.92] And there is healing. -[110.92 --> 114.92] That's the power that I claim. -[114.92 --> 118.36] It's the same that roved the grave. -[118.42 --> 123.96] And there's no power like the mighty name of Jesus. -[123.96 --> 136.96] There's no power like the mighty name of Jesus. -[136.96 --> 166.94] God bless you. -[166.96 --> 168.72] God bless you. -[181.20 --> 183.18] Amen. -[183.18 --> 185.86] Amen. -[187.12 --> 189.50] Manatee. -[189.66 --> 190.36] Amen. -[194.26 --> 194.36] Amen. -[194.56 --> 195.54] Amen. -[196.28 --> 196.68] Amen. -[196.68 --> 196.78] Amen. -[196.78 --> 196.86] Amen. -[196.86 --> 196.88] Amen. -[196.88 --> 196.92] Amen. -[196.92 --> 218.40] Please stand together as we sing our opening song. -[226.92 --> 247.90] All who are thirsty, all who are weak, come to the fountain. -[247.90 --> 261.90] Give your heart in the stream of life, let the pain and the sorrow be washed away. -[261.90 --> 280.62] In the ways of His mercy, as deep rise out to thee, we sing, come, Lord Jesus, come. -[280.62 --> 289.62] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[291.62 --> 298.62] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[298.62 --> 308.62] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[310.62 --> 321.62] For you are thirsty, all who are weak, come to the fountain. -[321.62 --> 333.62] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[333.62 --> 340.62] He washed away in the ways of His mercy. -[340.62 --> 354.62] As deep rise out to thee, we sing, Holy Spirit, come. -[354.62 --> 369.62] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[369.62 --> 375.62] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[375.62 --> 382.62] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[390.62 --> 391.62] Good morning. -[391.62 --> 392.62] Good morning. -[392.62 --> 395.62] Welcome to church. -[395.62 --> 397.62] I'm going to be my best at this. -[397.62 --> 400.62] I'm going to be in the place here. -[400.62 --> 402.62] Where are you? -[402.62 --> 406.62] The Lord will be with you. -[406.62 --> 407.62] Thank you. -[407.62 --> 408.62] I'm going to be with you. -[408.62 --> 410.62] I'm going to be proud. -[412.62 --> 413.62] So, two things. -[413.62 --> 415.62] One, we are welcoming back to Mexico, Michigan. -[415.62 --> 416.62] They are here with us. -[416.62 --> 422.62] Two, this week we welcomed Columbia and Recording family here at our church. -[422.62 --> 426.62] And we are grateful for the response to their teaching and welcoming them. -[426.62 --> 427.62] And they are here with us. -[427.62 --> 429.62] It's done for us. -[429.62 --> 433.62] And so, I encourage you to reach out to them, especially if you know Spanish, because they -[433.62 --> 435.62] don't know any English. -[435.62 --> 440.62] And so, if you just know a little bit of Spanish, I'm just going to be a particular here. -[440.62 --> 444.62] And welcome them with us this morning. -[444.62 --> 445.62] My name is Chris. -[445.62 --> 446.62] My mom is a pastor here. -[446.62 --> 449.62] And my brother is one of these other on stage. -[449.62 --> 450.62] And two more dads. -[450.62 --> 453.62] We came to work together this morning. -[453.62 --> 454.62] Good morning. -[454.62 --> 455.62] If you're visiting us soon, we welcome you. -[455.62 --> 457.62] And we're grateful that you are here. -[457.62 --> 460.62] If you're joining us online, we welcome you as well. -[460.62 --> 465.62] If you're here present with us this morning, following our worship, we have a time to pop the -[465.62 --> 466.62] after. -[466.62 --> 468.62] And so, everyone invited us to sit around the back. -[468.62 --> 474.62] If you are willing to be comfortable to do that, we encourage you to join in your fellowship -[474.62 --> 475.62] in that way. -[475.62 --> 481.62] If you're feeling that way, we're going to be comfortable with that. -[481.62 --> 487.62] As we gather in God's presence to me, our friends, us, and so I invite you to receive -[487.62 --> 490.62] the greeting of our prayer. -[490.62 --> 494.62] Christ, mercy, and peace to you. -[494.62 --> 499.62] From God, our Father, and the Lord, who is Christ, the Son, and our Savior, through the -[499.62 --> 502.62] presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[502.62 --> 503.62] Amen. -[503.62 --> 506.62] For you, God, our Father. -[506.62 --> 512.62] As we've come to worship this morning, on this fourth Sunday of Lent, let's take to -[512.62 --> 518.62] heart these words from Philippians 2, verses 9 to 11. -[518.62 --> 519.62] Amen. -[519.62 --> 521.62] We art as we truly do so. -[521.62 --> 522.62] Amen. -[522.62 --> 523.62] Amen. -[523.62 --> 525.62] We mustah Mormon, many things store us heard and bear them in the United States morning. -[525.62 --> 526.62] That in the door, again, saying that's how fast it is to work it and may be less than -[526.62 --> 527.62] even the actual false Platinum teaching. -[527.62 --> 528.62] To see God let us gel out in the name of the Father. -[528.62 --> 529.62] violeth hearing the Lord, they have in the name of the Son, that may be desired but also -[529.62 --> 531.44] enn 보니까 his sweet son, that was long, the fruit whom heareth cooper actually -[531.44 --> 532.62] ico М with regard to us. -[532.62 --> 533.62] This is thee Prince for教. -[533.62 --> 534.62] And every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. -[534.62 --> 537.62] The one thing we seek to do this, that was holy in the name of Jesus. -[537.62 --> 539.62] In the name of the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and -[539.62 --> 567.32] I love you, Lord, and I lift my voice -[567.32 --> 579.32] To worship you, O my soul, rejoice -[579.32 --> 591.82] Take joy, my King, in what you hear -[591.82 --> 604.82] May it be a sweet, sweet sound in your ear -[604.82 --> 618.82] I love you, Lord, and I lift my voice -[618.82 --> 632.82] To worship you, O my soul, rejoice -[632.82 --> 646.82] Take joy, my King, in what you hear -[646.82 --> 658.82] May it be a sweet, sweet sound in your ear -[658.82 --> 672.82] May it be a sweet, sweet sound in your ear -[672.82 --> 686.82] May it be a sweet, sweet sound in your ear -[686.82 --> 700.82] I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee, O Lord -[700.82 --> 714.82] I exalt Thee, O Lord -[714.82 --> 728.82] I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee, O Lord -[728.82 --> 740.82] I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee, O Lord -[740.82 --> 763.82] I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee, O Lord. -[763.82 --> 789.82] I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee, O Lord. -[793.82 --> 802.82] We love You, Lord, and we exalt Your name. May our souls forever be overcome in worship of You. -[802.82 --> 832.82] -[832.82 --> 837.82] Through the sacrifice of Jesus, we pray for Your forgiveness. -[837.82 --> 844.82] As we gaze at the empty tomb on that first Easter morning, we see the hope of eternal life with You. -[844.82 --> 853.82] Holy Spirit, help us to delight more and more in Your will, and walk in Your ways to the glory of Jesus' name. Amen. -[853.82 --> 862.82] For the sacrifice of Jesus, we pray for Your forgiveness. -[862.82 --> 868.82] For the sacrifice of Jesus, we pray for His forgiveness. -[868.82 --> 877.82] For the sacrifice of Jesus, we pray for His forgiveness. -[877.82 --> 883.82] For the sacrifice of Jesus, we pray for His forgiveness. -[883.82 --> 893.82] For the sacrifice of Jesus, we pray for His forgiveness. -[893.82 --> 898.82] For the sacrifice of Jesus, we pray for His forgiveness. -[898.82 --> 907.82] For the sacrifice of Jesus, we pray for His forgiveness. -[907.82 --> 919.82] The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. -[919.82 --> 932.82] The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. -[932.82 --> 946.82] And the Lord is good to all. He has compassion in all that He has made. -[946.82 --> 959.82] As far as the east is from the west, that's how far He has removed our transgressions from us. -[959.82 --> 972.82] As far as the east is from the west, that's how far He has removed our transgressions from us. -[972.82 --> 1000.82] Praise the Lord, O my soul. Praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. -[1000.82 --> 1001.82] Praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. -[1001.82 --> 1002.82] Praise the Lord. Good to all. -[1002.82 --> 1003.82] Amen. -[1003.82 --> 1010.82] Praise the Lord. -[1010.82 --> 1012.82] Praise the Lord. -[1012.82 --> 1013.82] Praise the Lord. -[1013.82 --> 1026.82] The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. -[1026.82 --> 1031.62] And the Lord is good to all -[1031.62 --> 1038.60] He has compassion on all that He has made -[1038.60 --> 1044.88] As far as the east is from the west -[1044.88 --> 1052.32] That's how far He has removed our transgressions from us -[1052.32 --> 1058.46] As far as the east is from the west -[1058.46 --> 1066.04] That's how far He has removed our transgressions from us -[1066.04 --> 1074.50] Praise the Lord, O my soul -[1074.50 --> 1080.12] Praise the Lord -[1080.12 --> 1088.52] Praise the Lord, O my soul -[1088.52 --> 1093.94] Praise the Lord -[1093.94 --> 1102.76] Praise the Lord, O my soul -[1102.76 --> 1107.12] Praise the Lord -[1107.12 --> 1113.52] Praise the Lord -[1113.52 --> 1115.52] Praise the Lord -[1115.52 --> 1117.52] O my soul -[1117.52 --> 1121.52] Praise the Lord -[1121.52 --> 1123.52] Praise the Lord -[1123.52 --> 1131.92] Praise the Lord -[1131.92 --> 1151.74] All of creation, all of the earth -[1151.74 --> 1156.14] Make straight a highway, path for the Lord -[1156.14 --> 1162.14] Jesus is coming soon -[1162.14 --> 1169.94] Call back the sinner, wake up the saint -[1169.94 --> 1174.94] Let every nation shout out in faith -[1174.94 --> 1181.34] Jesus is coming soon -[1181.34 --> 1189.42] Like a bride waiting for a groom -[1189.42 --> 1193.66] We'll be a church ready for you -[1193.66 --> 1198.76] Every heart longing for a King -[1198.76 --> 1203.16] We sing even so calm -[1203.16 --> 1207.16] Even so calm, Lord Jesus -[1207.16 --> 1209.56] Come on -[1209.56 --> 1215.56] Even so calm, Lord Jesus -[1215.56 --> 1217.56] Come -[1217.56 --> 1225.16] There will be justice, all will be new -[1225.16 --> 1229.56] Your name forever, faithful and true -[1229.56 --> 1233.96] Jesus is coming soon -[1233.96 --> 1240.36] Like a bride waiting for a King -[1240.36 --> 1242.36] Like a bride waiting for a King -[1242.36 --> 1244.36] Like a bride waiting for a King -[1244.36 --> 1248.36] We'll be a church ready for you -[1248.36 --> 1252.76] For you every heart longing for a King -[1252.76 --> 1258.76] We sing even so calm, Lord Jesus -[1258.76 --> 1260.76] Come -[1260.76 --> 1262.76] Even so calm, Lord Jesus -[1262.76 --> 1264.76] Come -[1264.76 --> 1268.76] Even so calm, Lord Jesus -[1268.76 --> 1270.76] Come -[1270.76 --> 1275.16] So we wait -[1275.16 --> 1277.16] So we wait -[1277.16 --> 1279.16] We wait -[1279.16 --> 1281.16] We wait for you -[1281.16 --> 1285.16] God, we wait -[1285.16 --> 1287.16] We're going soon -[1287.16 --> 1289.16] We wait -[1289.16 --> 1291.16] We're going soon -[1291.16 --> 1293.16] So we wait -[1293.16 --> 1297.16] We wait -[1297.16 --> 1307.16] We wait -[1307.16 --> 1311.56] We wait -[1311.56 --> 1313.56] We wait -[1313.56 --> 1315.56] You're coming soon -[1315.56 --> 1317.16] So we wait -[1317.16 --> 1317.56] We wait -[1317.56 --> 1319.56] We wait -[1319.56 --> 1321.66] We wait -[1321.66 --> 1323.56] You're coming soon -[1323.56 --> 1325.56] So we wait -[1325.56 --> 1328.56] coming soon -[1328.56 --> 1334.28] so we wait -[1334.28 --> 1338.48] we wait for you -[1338.48 --> 1343.76] God we wait -[1343.76 --> 1347.68] you're coming soon -[1347.68 --> 1353.40] like a bride -[1353.40 --> 1356.44] waiting for her groom -[1356.44 --> 1358.84] we'll be a church -[1358.84 --> 1360.76] ready for you -[1360.76 --> 1362.30] every heart -[1362.30 --> 1365.66] longing for a king -[1365.66 --> 1368.38] we sing -[1368.38 --> 1371.40] like a bride -[1371.40 --> 1374.82] waiting for her groom -[1374.82 --> 1377.38] we'll be a church -[1377.38 --> 1379.06] ready for you -[1379.06 --> 1380.84] every heart -[1380.84 --> 1384.00] longing for her king -[1384.00 --> 1386.38] we sing -[1386.38 --> 1389.60] even so come -[1389.60 --> 1393.70] Lord Jesus come -[1393.70 --> 1399.38] even so come -[1399.38 --> 1403.28] Lord Jesus come -[1403.28 --> 1416.10] you may have a seat -[1416.10 --> 1417.38] Holy shit -[1417.38 --> 1420.32] Lord Jesus come -[1420.32 --> 1424.54] Lord Jesus come -[1424.54 --> 1426.74] God -[1426.74 --> 1428.54] everything -[1429.96 --> 1433.50] Lord Jesus come -[1433.50 --> 1435.02] and pray -[1436.70 --> 1437.96] Lord Jesus come -[1437.96 --> 1439.54] Lord Jesus come -[1439.54 --> 1439.60] anyway -[1439.60 --> 1441.40] on your book -[1441.40 --> 1442.20] Bouff -[1442.20 --> 1443.06] or -[1443.06 --> 1444.14] Rude -[1444.14 --> 1466.34] to overcome poverty, homelessness, addiction by providing meals, education, shelter, safe -[1466.34 --> 1473.14] and affordable housing, drug and alcohol recovery programs, and support services for the homeless. -[1473.14 --> 1483.30] Psalm 34 9-10 -[1483.30 --> 1490.48] Oh, fear the Lord, you his saints, for those who fear him have no lack. -[1490.92 --> 1502.82] The young lions suffer want and hunger, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing. -[1504.14 --> 1509.94] Next week's special offering is for Cascade Christian Counseling. -[1511.08 --> 1513.80] Now let us worship the Lord with our offerings. -[1513.80 --> 1520.80] Cascade Christian Counseling -[1520.80 --> 1550.80] -[1550.80 --> 1565.80] You alone are my heart's desire and I long to worship you. -[1565.80 --> 1580.80] You alone are my heart's desire and I long to worship you. -[1580.80 --> 1593.80] You alone are my heart's desire and I long to worship you. -[1593.80 --> 1594.80] You alone are my heart's desire and I long to worship you. -[1594.80 --> 1595.80] You alone are my heart's desire and I long to worship you. -[1595.80 --> 1607.76] You're my friend and you are my brother even though you are a king. -[1607.76 --> 1618.56] I love you more than any other, so much more than anything. -[1620.56 --> 1626.60] You alone are my strength, my shield. -[1627.00 --> 1633.72] To you alone may my spirit heal. -[1633.72 --> 1645.78] You alone are my heart's desire, and I long to worship you. -[1648.08 --> 1658.10] I want you more than gold or silver, only you can satisfy. -[1658.10 --> 1672.16] You alone are the real joy giver and the apple of my eye. -[1672.16 --> 1679.58] You alone are my strength, my shield. -[1679.78 --> 1686.42] To you alone may my spirit heal. -[1687.72 --> 1699.34] You alone are my heart's desire, and I long to worship you. -[1699.34 --> 1700.34] I love you. -[1706.58 --> 1712.70] All right, come on up, everyone. -[1713.48 --> 1718.16] Kids of any age are welcome to join us for Kids' Corner today. -[1719.32 --> 1721.12] There is lots of people here today. -[1721.24 --> 1722.12] These pants fell down. -[1722.36 --> 1723.28] Your pants fell down. -[1723.50 --> 1723.84] Oh, dear. -[1723.98 --> 1725.02] These pants fell down. -[1725.32 --> 1726.28] These ones always fell down. -[1726.28 --> 1727.78] We need a belt over there. -[1730.64 --> 1731.54] Come on up. -[1732.34 --> 1732.86] All right. -[1733.68 --> 1739.86] So today I brought this nice bright green bag, and in it it has some clues for the story -[1739.86 --> 1742.74] we're going to learn about in children's worship time. -[1743.64 --> 1746.76] You might, and I'm not going to tell you at Kids' Corner what the story is. -[1746.82 --> 1750.00] You'll figure that out later, so it'll just be like a surprise if you're not sure. -[1750.00 --> 1756.08] But I'm going to pull out four different items, and then we'll see what they are, and then -[1756.08 --> 1759.40] we'll see if we can figure out the story or not either way. -[1759.84 --> 1761.08] So I have this first. -[1761.62 --> 1762.06] Lamb. -[1762.58 --> 1763.42] A lamb. -[1764.00 --> 1764.58] A sheep. -[1765.32 --> 1770.08] So can you think of any stories in the Bible that have to do with lambs? -[1770.32 --> 1771.36] About the flocks. -[1771.62 --> 1772.74] About the flocks, yeah. -[1773.50 --> 1774.34] What do we think? -[1774.86 --> 1775.30] Do you know? -[1776.28 --> 1777.26] Can't remember the name. -[1777.32 --> 1778.04] What do you think, Hayley? -[1778.04 --> 1780.32] The bear and the lion. -[1780.64 --> 1780.88] Yeah. -[1781.26 --> 1783.18] There's a bear and a lion. -[1783.70 --> 1784.40] A shepherd. -[1784.62 --> 1785.16] A shepherd. -[1785.32 --> 1786.02] Something about a shepherd. -[1786.32 --> 1786.50] Okay. -[1786.54 --> 1787.10] Let's put it here. -[1787.18 --> 1788.46] So we have a lamb. -[1789.02 --> 1789.66] That's one thing. -[1789.76 --> 1791.10] Because remember, there's four clues. -[1791.50 --> 1793.82] So the next one is this here. -[1794.36 --> 1794.76] Money. -[1794.76 --> 1795.12] Money. -[1795.62 --> 1795.88] Money. -[1798.08 --> 1799.98] What kind of money is this? -[1800.10 --> 1800.92] Like coins. -[1801.02 --> 1801.42] That's right. -[1801.46 --> 1802.32] And what color are they? -[1803.10 --> 1803.54] Silver. -[1803.80 --> 1804.10] Silver. -[1804.26 --> 1805.58] How many do you think are in here? -[1805.86 --> 1806.22] Ten. -[1806.22 --> 1806.54] Five. -[1806.96 --> 1807.36] Ten. -[1807.36 --> 1807.86] Five. -[1808.04 --> 1810.00] Two hundred. -[1810.24 --> 1811.38] Maybe a little more than five. -[1811.46 --> 1811.92] What do you think? -[1812.16 --> 1813.12] Probably eighteen. -[1813.60 --> 1813.98] Eighteen. -[1814.02 --> 1814.86] Maybe about thirty. -[1815.36 --> 1816.88] That's a really good guess. -[1817.02 --> 1817.42] Fifteen. -[1817.42 --> 1819.02] I think there's about thirty in here. -[1819.16 --> 1820.54] Thirty silver coins. -[1821.18 --> 1822.22] So let's put those by the... -[1822.22 --> 1824.58] I knocked them over. -[1825.30 --> 1825.52] Okay. -[1825.58 --> 1826.66] I got something else here. -[1827.04 --> 1827.82] Pizza dough. -[1828.18 --> 1828.80] Pizza dough. -[1829.30 --> 1833.62] I do use this for pizza, but I would say it's part of the bread category. -[1834.46 --> 1834.96] Nan bread. -[1835.10 --> 1835.86] Nan bread. -[1835.86 --> 1835.92] Nan bread. -[1836.42 --> 1837.42] It's nan bread. -[1837.42 --> 1838.70] Bread with some more. -[1838.78 --> 1839.36] Nan bread. -[1839.44 --> 1841.74] Can you think of any times we talk about bread in the Bible? -[1842.98 --> 1843.38] Jesus. -[1843.96 --> 1844.80] The Last Supper. -[1845.46 --> 1846.28] The Last Supper. -[1846.54 --> 1846.96] Oh, wow. -[1847.02 --> 1848.58] That was an excellent guess. -[1848.74 --> 1849.04] Jesus. -[1849.32 --> 1849.56] Okay. -[1849.62 --> 1851.38] We got one more thing here in this. -[1851.42 --> 1852.34] This is the biggest one. -[1853.16 --> 1853.70] A bowl. -[1853.82 --> 1854.38] A bowl. -[1855.26 --> 1856.30] And it has two... -[1856.30 --> 1856.98] It's a two-parter. -[1857.32 --> 1857.76] Towel. -[1857.98 --> 1858.26] Yeah. -[1858.80 --> 1860.12] What do you think you could do with this? -[1860.62 --> 1861.62] It's for dinner. -[1862.30 --> 1862.58] Work. -[1862.80 --> 1863.22] For dinner? -[1863.22 --> 1865.94] What would you do with a bowl and a cloth, Julia? -[1866.02 --> 1867.24] Oh, I would make dinner. -[1867.50 --> 1867.70] Sorry? -[1868.70 --> 1869.34] Clean your feet? -[1869.42 --> 1870.60] Is that how you clean your feet at home? -[1872.24 --> 1873.46] But that's a great guess. -[1873.50 --> 1876.04] You could use it to clean things, like maybe your feet. -[1876.16 --> 1877.60] We might hear about that in the story. -[1878.34 --> 1879.56] Do you guys need to clean your feet? -[1879.62 --> 1880.40] Are they stinky today? -[1880.96 --> 1881.68] Well, yeah. -[1881.68 --> 1882.40] All right. -[1882.48 --> 1883.70] So those are our four things. -[1883.84 --> 1886.94] Now, I'm going to bring them over when we do the story, and we'll see how they all fit -[1886.94 --> 1889.52] together for what we're going to learn about today. -[1889.60 --> 1892.42] We had some really good guesses, maybe even some correct guesses. -[1893.02 --> 1895.42] So we're going to pray, and then we'll do our blessing. -[1897.40 --> 1901.38] Lord Jesus, thank you that we can come here today and worship you and learn more about -[1901.38 --> 1901.58] you. -[1901.88 --> 1906.36] We pray that we would have open minds to hearing your word, God, and that we would show -[1906.36 --> 1909.16] your love to those around us as we go from here this week. -[1909.32 --> 1909.60] Amen. -[1909.60 --> 1909.72] Amen. -[1911.14 --> 1912.48] All right, everyone, let's stand up. -[1920.16 --> 1921.48] Now have our hands out. -[1922.86 --> 1923.22] Okay. -[1924.12 --> 1926.42] The Lord be with you. -[1926.90 --> 1928.34] And also with you. -[1939.60 --> 1940.78] Is this still working? -[1940.98 --> 1941.16] Okay. -[1941.34 --> 1941.62] Beautiful. -[1943.14 --> 1944.56] I have to make a quick announcement. -[1944.74 --> 1947.42] Chris made me do it now, so I'm alone. -[1948.12 --> 1948.56] I don't know. -[1948.88 --> 1949.02] Yeah. -[1949.02 --> 1953.14] The Young Adults Potluck is next Sunday. -[1953.48 --> 1958.58] So I mentioned before Mexico that the first Sunday of every month there was a Young Adults -[1958.58 --> 1962.54] event swapping back between Board Games Night and Potlucks. -[1962.54 --> 1966.26] So this Sunday coming up is Pollock Night at 7 p.m. -[1966.26 --> 1966.80] at the church. -[1968.52 --> 1970.08] Young Adults, if you didn't know that, bring a food. -[1970.36 --> 1970.82] It would be great. -[1970.98 --> 1971.58] It's going to be awesome. -[1974.30 --> 1974.66] See? -[1975.30 --> 1978.76] If that didn't inspire fun, then I don't know what would. -[1978.76 --> 1987.64] Good morning, everybody. -[1988.00 --> 1988.82] My name is Ken. -[1988.90 --> 1992.60] I'm an elder here at Emmanuel, and I will lead you in our church family prayer. -[1993.02 --> 1994.00] So let us pray. -[1994.00 --> 2003.26] Heavenly God and Father, Lord of all creation, Yahweh, your name is above all names. -[2003.94 --> 2005.72] Your name is worthy of all praise. -[2006.40 --> 2007.94] It is the name above all names. -[2008.80 --> 2014.04] Father, it is good to be here together as your people gathered in this place, not gathered -[2014.04 --> 2016.38] in your church, but gathered as your church. -[2017.12 --> 2023.40] It is a privilege and a blessing to be here to gather in freedom and worship you in a world -[2023.40 --> 2025.26] and culture that is pulling us away from you. -[2025.58 --> 2030.72] It is good to stop, to take the day as you have set aside and reflect on your promises -[2030.72 --> 2032.12] and your will for our lives. -[2033.30 --> 2037.50] Father, we come to you as a congregation to bring our hurts and sorrow, our anxieties and -[2037.50 --> 2037.86] fears. -[2038.62 --> 2042.40] We live in a world where sin continues to affect us in many and different ways. -[2043.46 --> 2046.06] Father, we pray for the war that is happening in Ukraine. -[2046.40 --> 2050.98] We pray that you will bring peace to the region, that you will put an end to the war and to -[2050.98 --> 2053.24] the suffering of the Ukrainian people. -[2053.40 --> 2057.32] Lord, be with those who are trying to make their way out of the country, but also those -[2057.32 --> 2060.00] who have stayed behind and are in the midst of danger. -[2060.44 --> 2062.62] Lord, be their refuge in this time of trouble. -[2064.06 --> 2067.20] Closer to home, we pray for each one of these members here. -[2067.78 --> 2070.96] Some are still hurting from loss of loved ones. -[2071.66 --> 2073.42] Some have physical health concerns. -[2073.86 --> 2075.14] Some have mental health concerns. -[2075.92 --> 2077.78] Others are feeling the effects of old age. -[2078.20 --> 2079.22] Perhaps others are lonely. -[2079.22 --> 2084.86] For each one who suffers, Father, be near to them and allow your spirit to be the light -[2084.86 --> 2085.72] that they can look to. -[2087.14 --> 2091.92] We pray for Robin's dad, William, who is suffering from a blood infection. -[2092.86 --> 2095.74] We pray that you will be near to him and that you will grant him healing. -[2095.74 --> 2100.50] Father, be with the marriages of this congregation. -[2101.28 --> 2105.38] Have us look to serve the other rather than be concerned with our own wants and needs. -[2106.26 --> 2108.08] Be with parents as they raise their children. -[2109.14 --> 2113.30] The younger ones can be physically exhausting and the older ones can be mentally exhausting, -[2113.52 --> 2118.96] but you have given parents the responsibility and the joy to persevere through all of these -[2118.96 --> 2122.04] things and to raise our children to honour and serve you. -[2123.56 --> 2127.18] As we continue to move forward after COVID restrictions are lifting, -[2127.50 --> 2131.72] allow us to be patient and loving to those who may not be ready to move ahead quite yet. -[2132.52 --> 2137.04] We are thankful for the loosening of restrictions and pray that COVID will remain at bay -[2137.04 --> 2138.66] and keep us moving forward. -[2140.60 --> 2143.38] You also allow us to experience joy and happiness, -[2143.38 --> 2146.96] to see so many wonderful and beautiful things through your creation, -[2147.34 --> 2149.96] through relationships, and through the work that you give us to do. -[2150.88 --> 2154.06] We are thankful for the successful trip of our youth to Mexico. -[2155.30 --> 2158.38] Lord, you brought them there and you brought them back safely to us. -[2158.90 --> 2162.26] You gave them the opportunity to build relationships with the people from Mexico -[2162.26 --> 2164.50] and to share the love of Jesus with each other. -[2165.48 --> 2168.50] It is a wonderful thing that they were able to experience -[2168.50 --> 2172.20] and we pray that this will further build their faith and relationship with you. -[2173.38 --> 2180.16] Be with the Refugee Committee as they work with World Renew to finalise the application of the Namur family. -[2180.74 --> 2186.58] If it be your will, may they make it here to Canada and begin to build a new life here. -[2187.98 --> 2193.62] We also pray for Sebastian, Sandy, and their two children who came to the church this past week looking for help. -[2194.26 --> 2197.68] We thank you that members of our congregation have given them a place to stay -[2197.68 --> 2200.74] until they can sort out their situation over the next while. -[2200.74 --> 2206.64] Lord, you brought them to our door and we pray that you will lead us to help them as you would have us do. -[2209.04 --> 2215.70] Continue to be with all of the committees and groups, Bible studies, care groups, elders, deacons, youth, and young adults. -[2216.06 --> 2221.54] Be with the staff of the church and help us to all know that each one of us is a spoke in the wheel of this congregation. -[2222.10 --> 2224.90] Be with the council as they plan to meet this Tuesday -[2224.90 --> 2229.76] and allow that meeting to be effective towards the will for this church. -[2231.44 --> 2234.24] Lord, be with Pastor Chris this morning as he brings us your word. -[2234.88 --> 2239.80] Open our ears, hearts, and minds so that we may learn more about your will for our lives. -[2240.18 --> 2243.16] We pray all of this in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. -[2243.16 --> 2243.56] Amen. -[2263.56 --> 2264.90] Yeah, sorry to disappoint, Ken. -[2264.90 --> 2272.36] It's good to be with you all this morning. -[2272.44 --> 2274.26] See some faces finally from the front. -[2274.36 --> 2275.38] This is lovely as well. -[2276.00 --> 2277.62] Work, work, work. -[2278.26 --> 2279.26] That's what we do, right? -[2280.24 --> 2280.94] We work. -[2281.36 --> 2283.30] Some of us love our work. -[2284.02 --> 2284.82] Some of us don't. -[2285.10 --> 2286.40] Some of us love it too much. -[2286.48 --> 2288.74] Some of us complain about it too much. -[2288.74 --> 2289.98] But we all work. -[2291.16 --> 2293.82] Does anybody know what the first job in the Bible was? -[2293.82 --> 2295.90] Online, you've got about six seconds to guess. -[2295.96 --> 2296.74] But I'm actually asking. -[2296.84 --> 2297.68] Does somebody want to shout out? -[2297.74 --> 2299.04] What was the first job in the Bible? -[2300.44 --> 2301.08] Josh, not you. -[2303.24 --> 2303.60] Sorry? -[2304.80 --> 2305.64] Nope, nope. -[2306.98 --> 2308.38] God gave Adam a job. -[2309.50 --> 2310.34] Name the animals. -[2310.68 --> 2313.04] That was the first job in the Bible. -[2313.54 --> 2318.04] God asked Adam to name all of the animals in the world. -[2318.04 --> 2319.34] That would have been hard, right? -[2319.42 --> 2321.02] That would have been a hard job. -[2321.08 --> 2323.68] You think naming your puppy or your goldfish is tricky? -[2324.28 --> 2327.26] Imagine naming all of the animals in the world. -[2327.32 --> 2328.28] We know it was hard too. -[2328.34 --> 2329.20] We have proof of this. -[2329.38 --> 2331.32] Because now we have animals like this guy. -[2331.98 --> 2332.68] It's coming up. -[2333.76 --> 2334.84] Maybe it's not coming up. -[2334.94 --> 2335.50] Is it coming up? -[2335.54 --> 2335.98] Oh, it's up. -[2336.02 --> 2336.48] There it is. -[2337.08 --> 2337.72] The platypus. -[2338.44 --> 2339.32] Or this one. -[2340.96 --> 2342.56] The screaming hairy armadillo. -[2342.86 --> 2343.96] Or this next one. -[2345.28 --> 2347.68] The sarcastic fringe-headed fish. -[2347.84 --> 2348.92] That is a real thing. -[2350.04 --> 2351.48] Those are real animals. -[2352.48 --> 2354.46] Adam, actually, he did pretty well, all things considered. -[2354.54 --> 2359.38] But have you ever wondered if God had given you this task today, knowing what we now know -[2359.38 --> 2362.20] in the animal kingdom, what you would call the animals? -[2363.06 --> 2365.34] Like, if we were given this task, what would we do? -[2365.40 --> 2371.52] Well, here's some suggestions for better animal names from your faithful friends at the old -[2371.52 --> 2371.84] internet. -[2371.84 --> 2374.74] So we've got arrow pig. -[2377.88 --> 2379.64] We've got naked snail. -[2381.26 --> 2383.22] One of my favorites, fart squirrel. -[2386.02 --> 2387.62] We've got furry potato. -[2387.76 --> 2388.44] Another good one. -[2390.42 --> 2391.54] These next three are good. -[2391.60 --> 2392.26] We've got a nope. -[2392.26 --> 2392.34] Nope. -[2394.98 --> 2396.48] And then we've got a furry nope. -[2398.46 --> 2400.04] And then finally, a nope rope. -[2402.70 --> 2405.80] And lastly, this one was absolutely my favorite. -[2406.22 --> 2407.78] The pantless thunder goose. -[2410.78 --> 2412.48] Now, I know what you're thinking. -[2412.72 --> 2417.12] What does any of this nonsense have to do with Exodus or our sermon today? -[2417.12 --> 2421.26] And I have to admit, if I'm being very honest with you, very little. -[2421.70 --> 2425.12] I was just trying to find a way into this message, and it seems like I came up limping -[2425.12 --> 2425.90] a bit this morning. -[2426.28 --> 2427.44] But we muster on. -[2427.66 --> 2429.36] We're going to look at Sabbath rest. -[2429.48 --> 2433.64] And so if that was what work is, we're going to talk about what rest is. -[2434.06 --> 2435.16] We all have to work. -[2435.54 --> 2436.76] But how do we rest? -[2436.82 --> 2438.84] How does God call us to rest? -[2438.84 --> 2442.02] And more specifically, what is Sabbath rest? -[2442.14 --> 2444.06] So that's what we're going to look at today. -[2444.26 --> 2446.26] So if you've got your Bibles, please open them up. -[2446.26 --> 2449.70] If you've got an app on your phone with your Bible, open that up as well. -[2449.76 --> 2451.16] At home, we invite you to do the same. -[2452.50 --> 2456.50] As always, it'll be very handy to have that open throughout so you can follow along as -[2456.50 --> 2457.28] this goes on. -[2457.42 --> 2463.28] So Exodus 31 is where we're turning today as we continue our sermon series through this -[2463.28 --> 2463.84] book. -[2463.90 --> 2467.84] And we're going to look at verses 12 to 17 of Exodus 31. -[2467.96 --> 2469.24] It'll be on the screen behind me as well. -[2470.12 --> 2472.32] Exodus 31, 12 to 17 says this. -[2472.32 --> 2478.66] Then the Lord said to Moses, say to the Israelites, you must observe my Sabbaths. -[2478.66 --> 2484.20] This will be a sign between me and you for the generations to come, so you may know that -[2484.20 --> 2486.66] I am the Lord who makes you holy. -[2487.94 --> 2490.70] Observe the Sabbath because it is holy to you. -[2491.04 --> 2494.36] Anyone who desecrates it is to be put to death. -[2495.24 --> 2498.48] Those who do any work on that day must be cut off from their people. -[2498.48 --> 2504.10] For six days work is to be done, but the seventh day is a day of Sabbath rest, holy to the -[2504.10 --> 2504.40] Lord. -[2504.96 --> 2508.62] Whoever does any work on the Sabbath day is to be put to death. -[2509.56 --> 2513.56] The Israelites are to observe the Sabbath, celebrating it for the generations to come -[2513.56 --> 2515.20] as a lasting covenant. -[2515.66 --> 2518.70] It will be a sign between me and the Israelites forever. -[2519.36 --> 2524.52] For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, and on the seventh day he rested -[2524.52 --> 2525.94] and was refreshed. -[2526.44 --> 2527.44] The word of the Lord. -[2528.48 --> 2534.70] If you were here last week or watched the sermon last week, Pastor Chris led us through -[2534.70 --> 2538.08] a sermon and he led us through the theology of the tabernacle. -[2538.60 --> 2543.30] We looked at 15 chapters last week between Exodus 25 and 40. -[2543.30 --> 2549.50] We looked at how God's presence in the tabernacle is, and beyond, is now known amongst the people. -[2550.02 --> 2555.24] Well today we're looking at the Sabbath, the theology of the Sabbath, and how we come to know -[2555.24 --> 2557.30] God through that holy time. -[2557.30 --> 2562.18] So last week we looked at a holy place, and this week we're looking at a holy time. -[2562.30 --> 2563.66] Place and time. -[2563.74 --> 2565.30] That's the weekly connection. -[2565.82 --> 2570.30] Now something else interesting to note that started last week in chapter 25, and it carries -[2570.30 --> 2571.94] over through today, is this. -[2572.16 --> 2578.52] When God starts discussing the tabernacle, the Bible uses the phrase, the Lord spoke to Moses -[2578.52 --> 2583.26] seven times between Exodus 25 and Exodus 31. -[2583.26 --> 2586.82] The first six times are connected with creating. -[2586.82 --> 2590.80] How to go about creating things for the tabernacle. -[2590.90 --> 2596.96] Things like sanctuary supplies, proper funding, bronze basin, anointing oil, incense, and temple furnishings. -[2596.96 --> 2605.40] But the seventh time, the seventh time that the Bible says God spoke to Moses was today's passage about rest. -[2605.96 --> 2614.00] So six times God spoke to Moses ways to create, and the seventh time God spoke to Moses on how to rest, -[2614.34 --> 2616.26] which of course follows the creation account. -[2616.26 --> 2619.46] God worked and created for six days, and on the seventh day he rested. -[2619.54 --> 2620.32] That's pretty cool, right? -[2621.46 --> 2622.42] So rest is important. -[2623.06 --> 2623.80] Rest is important. -[2623.90 --> 2624.80] It's highlighted a lot. -[2625.12 --> 2627.46] Sabbath rest matters to God. -[2627.84 --> 2629.00] He rested at creation. -[2629.42 --> 2632.32] He lists it amongst the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20. -[2632.54 --> 2635.08] He highlights it here very poignantly. -[2635.08 --> 2640.26] And rest becomes a theme that we start seeing throughout the entire Bible. -[2640.36 --> 2641.72] But why is this so important? -[2641.88 --> 2644.50] Why does Sabbath rest matter? -[2645.56 --> 2648.76] Well, looking at this text, we're going to see today that Sabbath rest matters -[2648.76 --> 2657.54] because Sabbath is a time where we can remember God, who God is, and we can observe what he has done for us. -[2657.98 --> 2663.12] Sabbath is a time where we can remember who God is and observe what he has done for us. -[2663.12 --> 2665.24] That's what our text says today. -[2665.32 --> 2668.88] If you look at verse 13, God is commanding Moses here, and he says, -[2669.40 --> 2672.92] Say to the Israelites, you must observe my Sabbaths. -[2673.28 --> 2676.30] This will be a sign between me and you for the generations to come, -[2676.40 --> 2681.46] so that you may know that I am the Lord who makes you holy. -[2683.46 --> 2689.80] So if Sabbath helps us know the one true God who makes us holy, what is Sabbath then? -[2690.30 --> 2691.66] How should it look? -[2691.66 --> 2693.14] Who is this for? -[2693.54 --> 2694.86] What is Sabbath? -[2695.08 --> 2696.98] When is Sabbath? -[2697.96 --> 2700.40] We're going to take a peek at all of those questions today, -[2700.40 --> 2704.34] and we're hopefully going to come to a better understanding of what Sabbath is -[2704.34 --> 2708.28] and how Sabbath helps us know God and know the Lord. -[2708.96 --> 2711.96] So first, how should Sabbath look? -[2712.30 --> 2714.82] I think instantly we get stuck here, don't we? -[2715.26 --> 2719.60] I think right out of the gate, we instantly think, what should we do? -[2719.60 --> 2722.88] What are the things we're allowed to do, and what are the things we are not allowed to do? -[2722.94 --> 2727.66] Or the other side of the spectrum, we think Sabbath is this old-timey thing, -[2727.70 --> 2731.44] and it doesn't actually matter what we do so long as that we go to church at least -[2731.44 --> 2732.44] and love God and love others. -[2733.72 --> 2736.54] However, both of those postures actually completely miss the point. -[2736.54 --> 2744.38] Whether we fret about what we can or can't do, or we whitewash the whole thing as this ancient ritual -[2744.38 --> 2749.22] that doesn't matter what we do, they both focus on the things we can do. -[2750.04 --> 2751.86] But God never says do the Sabbath. -[2752.42 --> 2753.36] That's not the language. -[2753.36 --> 2756.32] In Exodus 20, God calls us to remember the Sabbath. -[2757.04 --> 2760.08] In our text today, he calls us to observe the Sabbath. -[2760.96 --> 2763.84] This is not a matter of doing or not doing. -[2764.00 --> 2764.96] It's a posture. -[2765.36 --> 2769.50] It's a perspective, a lens, a way to think about things and understand. -[2771.38 --> 2772.98] Hold on to that just for a little bit. -[2774.58 --> 2780.02] In his book, The Rest of God, Mark Buchanan states that the two biggest obstacles -[2780.02 --> 2786.52] that people have to properly observing the Sabbath are busyness and legalism. -[2787.82 --> 2789.48] Some of us are too busy. -[2790.06 --> 2793.68] We're too busy to properly observe Sabbath rest. -[2793.80 --> 2798.62] There's too much to do, too many emails to check, too many people to chauffeur around. -[2798.94 --> 2799.90] There's too much happening. -[2800.68 --> 2801.82] And so we make excuses. -[2801.94 --> 2803.92] We think, God doesn't really care if I do this, does he? -[2805.50 --> 2807.26] But again, Sabbath isn't about doing. -[2808.06 --> 2808.92] It's about observing. -[2808.92 --> 2814.38] Are you really thinking about God, remembering what he's done for you, -[2814.48 --> 2819.34] remembering that he is the Lord if you are too busy running around, -[2819.88 --> 2823.62] running the rat race seven days a week, burning the candle at both ends? -[2824.28 --> 2830.44] Can you really remember who God is if you don't slow down as God calls us to? -[2831.64 --> 2835.16] Are you really resting if you're always running? -[2835.16 --> 2839.18] The other problem is legalism. -[2839.84 --> 2845.46] We spend what should be our Sabbath fretting about what we're doing and if we're doing it right. -[2846.12 --> 2847.26] Can you get gas? -[2847.58 --> 2848.06] Buy bread? -[2848.22 --> 2848.92] Can you cook a meal? -[2849.78 --> 2850.58] Can you host someone? -[2850.68 --> 2851.78] Is it a day for family? -[2852.00 --> 2853.00] A day for church family? -[2853.08 --> 2853.86] A day for our neighbors? -[2854.20 --> 2855.26] What about screen time? -[2855.30 --> 2856.28] How much of that is appropriate? -[2856.54 --> 2857.44] Can I mow the lawn? -[2857.44 --> 2861.40] It's all rules about doing, doing, doing. -[2862.40 --> 2866.82] Whether you can or you can't, we're concerned about what we do on the Sabbath. -[2866.90 --> 2872.72] We either make Sabbath the same day as every other day of the week because of the life that we have -[2872.72 --> 2874.94] and the fact that things are just too busy that we're moving through. -[2874.94 --> 2878.76] Or we make Sabbath about rules that need to be followed. -[2879.52 --> 2883.68] Instead about finding our rest and our hope in Jesus Christ. -[2885.60 --> 2891.98] On our Sabbath day, we should cease doing what is necessary and embrace that which gives life. -[2892.08 --> 2893.84] That's the quote from Mark Buchanan's book. -[2893.92 --> 2898.10] That's how he summed up this command. -[2898.10 --> 2903.48] So what that means is that Sabbath may look different from one person to the next. -[2903.62 --> 2906.52] Someone who's a researcher, a scientific researcher, for example, -[2906.72 --> 2908.58] they might not want to read on Sabbath. -[2908.92 --> 2913.46] They might not want to read a book because reading is a necessary part of the job that they do. -[2913.80 --> 2917.74] They might want to garden because nature is life-giving to them -[2917.74 --> 2921.40] and piddling in their yard connects them to God who gives them life. -[2921.58 --> 2924.40] And a landscaper, though, he might not want to piddle in his yard. -[2924.40 --> 2927.76] He might not want to work on his lawn because he does that every day. -[2928.10 --> 2931.00] So reading a book for him might be exactly what he needs to do. -[2931.24 --> 2932.70] That would be life-giving for him. -[2933.06 --> 2933.80] Or maybe not. -[2934.04 --> 2936.22] Maybe the landscaper, maybe she needs to be outdoors. -[2936.56 --> 2940.02] Maybe she needs to be working on her lawn because that is what's life-giving to her. -[2940.20 --> 2942.04] That's the perfect way for her to embrace life. -[2942.24 --> 2944.62] And maybe the researcher, maybe she loves knowledge. -[2944.88 --> 2948.94] So maybe she should read a book on Sabbath because that is connecting her to God. -[2949.40 --> 2951.42] Either way, you can't bubble wrap Sabbath. -[2951.56 --> 2952.64] That's the point of this. -[2952.64 --> 2958.66] Sabbath is a time where we can remember who God is and observe what he has done for us. -[2959.20 --> 2960.86] So how should Sabbath look? -[2964.04 --> 2970.36] However you need it to look so that you can cease from doing what is necessary in your life -[2970.36 --> 2974.12] and embrace that which gives life. -[2974.12 --> 2979.30] Because when we embrace that which gives life, we have to slow down. -[2979.92 --> 2981.06] We have to look around. -[2981.54 --> 2984.86] And we have to embrace the great God who made us. -[2986.76 --> 2992.50] Sabbath is the time where we can remember who God is and observe what he has done for us. -[2994.46 --> 2996.34] So then secondly, who is Sabbath for? -[2996.72 --> 2997.30] Is it for you? -[2998.50 --> 2998.96] Like, yeah. -[2999.48 --> 3000.16] But also no. -[3000.56 --> 3001.32] But mostly yeah. -[3001.32 --> 3006.02] So in Mark 2, Jesus said the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. -[3006.42 --> 3008.50] So yes, Sabbath was made for you. -[3008.56 --> 3012.24] But not like you, whoever I'm pointing at. -[3012.42 --> 3015.18] But like you, everyone here. -[3015.26 --> 3017.98] Not the singular you, but the plural you. -[3021.66 --> 3024.44] Sabbath was not meant to be an individual thing. -[3024.88 --> 3027.64] Or even a nuclear family thing, actually. -[3027.64 --> 3032.06] No, Sabbath was meant for a people, for a community, for God's people. -[3032.16 --> 3034.78] If you look at our text alone, look at the language in there. -[3035.14 --> 3038.20] In those six verses we read today, God says the Sabbath is for this. -[3038.34 --> 3042.74] God says the Sabbath is for the people of Israel, or the people of God. -[3042.96 --> 3043.82] He says that three times. -[3044.32 --> 3046.40] He says it's for people throughout the generation. -[3046.56 --> 3048.60] He says that twice, and now we're up to five. -[3048.60 --> 3054.72] And God calls Sabbath a lasting covenant, which is communal language, in verse 16. -[3054.96 --> 3060.12] That's six references to Sabbath being for the community in six verses. -[3061.24 --> 3064.56] Sabbath isn't this individual thing for you or for your immediate family. -[3064.96 --> 3066.76] Sabbath is for all God's people. -[3067.58 --> 3068.66] It's for your church family. -[3068.74 --> 3071.26] It's a lasting covenant for all who believe. -[3071.26 --> 3076.04] The Heidelberg Catechism highlights this communal truth in this command. -[3076.70 --> 3080.74] Lord's Day 38, question and answer 103, describes the Sabbath, saying the following. -[3080.80 --> 3081.98] I'll just read the question and answer here. -[3082.02 --> 3084.78] It says, what is God's will for you in the fourth commandment? -[3084.88 --> 3088.20] The fourth commandment being that we should remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. -[3088.76 --> 3093.44] The answer, first, that the gospel ministry and education for Sabbath be maintained, -[3093.44 --> 3097.98] and that especially on the festive day of rest, store that away for later, please, -[3098.40 --> 3105.30] I diligently attend the assembly of God's people to learn what God's word teaches, -[3105.42 --> 3107.88] to participate in the sacraments, to pray for God publicly, -[3107.88 --> 3112.22] and to bring Christian offerings for the poor, for others. -[3113.58 --> 3115.38] Attend the assembly of God's people. -[3116.68 --> 3117.70] Think about others. -[3119.84 --> 3121.30] Give to others. -[3121.30 --> 3126.70] Not hang out by yourself, but join God's people and learn the word of God together. -[3126.82 --> 3128.84] Take part in the sacraments together. -[3129.02 --> 3130.02] Pray together. -[3130.16 --> 3130.82] Be together. -[3130.98 --> 3132.00] Give together. -[3132.24 --> 3133.62] Serve together. -[3133.86 --> 3137.56] Sabbath is meant for the community to get together and combat the self, -[3138.20 --> 3139.70] which our culture is obsessed with, -[3140.70 --> 3142.46] and be present for the other. -[3144.36 --> 3147.66] Now, we're going to connect the importance of Sabbath being communal -[3147.66 --> 3150.74] with the obstacles of legalism and busyness for a minute. -[3150.74 --> 3154.62] The director of faith formations ministry, Chris Schoen, he points this out beautifully. -[3155.00 --> 3155.82] So he highlights this. -[3155.88 --> 3156.08] He says, -[3156.18 --> 3161.94] In the Old Testament, God's people, they get ridiculed by the prophets for not observing the Sabbath. -[3162.22 --> 3167.34] So in Isaiah 1, for example, God declares how Israel's worship became meaningless -[3167.34 --> 3172.70] because instead, they were oppressing the people. -[3173.12 --> 3177.34] So instead, they needed to defend the oppressed and attend to the fatherless and the widow. -[3177.34 --> 3181.82] In Ezekiel 22, God talks about how his people are shedding blood. -[3182.24 --> 3183.32] They're neglecting their children. -[3183.46 --> 3184.72] They're oppressing immigrants. -[3185.02 --> 3189.16] They're mistreating orphans and widows as they desecrate the Sabbath. -[3190.32 --> 3195.84] And then in Amos 8, God condemns Israel for impatiently longing for the Sabbath to finish. -[3196.54 --> 3197.30] This is horrifying. -[3197.56 --> 3202.32] So that they can go back to their dishonest scales and selling the poor people in the market. -[3202.32 --> 3207.80] Now in these examples, God is rejecting Israel's Sabbath practices -[3207.80 --> 3212.66] because they are disconnected from how they treat the vulnerable people in their community. -[3213.90 --> 3217.16] Their Sabbath and the way they treat their community, they don't align. -[3217.24 --> 3221.44] They were too busy living lives the way they wanted to live their lives, -[3221.52 --> 3223.44] the way they had always been living their lives, -[3223.60 --> 3225.28] and they weren't living for others. -[3225.34 --> 3226.74] In fact, they were abusing others. -[3226.74 --> 3231.38] And that ran very opposed to how God wants people to act on the Sabbath. -[3232.00 --> 3233.38] Then we get to the New Testament, -[3233.92 --> 3237.68] and Jesus gets ridiculed by the Pharisees a lot on the Sabbath. -[3238.02 --> 3241.52] In Matthew 12, Jesus heals a man with a shriveled hand on the Sabbath. -[3241.64 --> 3244.48] Luke 13, he heals a crippled woman on the Sabbath. -[3244.58 --> 3248.06] Luke 14, he heals a man with abdominal swelling on the Sabbath. -[3248.30 --> 3251.30] And in John 5, Jesus heals a lame man on the Sabbath. -[3251.38 --> 3251.78] That's four. -[3251.86 --> 3252.44] There's lots more. -[3252.44 --> 3257.54] But every single time he does a miracle on the Sabbath, the Pharisees get very upset. -[3258.52 --> 3260.58] He was breaking the rules, Jesus was. -[3261.40 --> 3263.92] He wasn't resting in the Pharisees' eyes. -[3265.22 --> 3269.46] So in the Old Testament, the Israelites were too busy to remember the Sabbath in the Old Testament, -[3269.58 --> 3273.58] and they treated the least of these very poorly. -[3274.36 --> 3278.76] And in the New Testament, Jesus starts treating the least of these with his healing power, -[3278.76 --> 3282.92] and he gets ridiculed because he's not following the rules. -[3285.04 --> 3287.24] Busyness and legalism, forgetting about the others. -[3289.52 --> 3291.52] But Sabbath is for all of us to remember, -[3291.60 --> 3294.76] to remember and to observe so that we can gather, which we do, -[3295.16 --> 3296.94] so that we can grow, which we do, -[3297.72 --> 3302.64] and then so we can go into our communities and be the hands and feet of Jesus. -[3302.64 --> 3303.86] We're not individuals. -[3304.00 --> 3304.66] We're community. -[3305.16 --> 3308.94] And when we observe Sabbath, we're to be there for the people around us. -[3309.00 --> 3311.42] In our church, yes, but beyond the walls, too. -[3313.86 --> 3316.74] Sabbath is not for you, singular, but for you, church. -[3317.56 --> 3321.30] And all who believe to show God's love to the world that we live in. -[3321.94 --> 3323.54] There's a gather part to our Sabbath. -[3323.62 --> 3324.42] I think we get that. -[3324.52 --> 3325.90] There's a grow part to our Sabbath. -[3325.98 --> 3326.82] I think we get that. -[3327.12 --> 3328.76] But there's a go part as well. -[3330.44 --> 3331.18] Do we do that? -[3331.18 --> 3333.22] That's something to ponder today. -[3334.40 --> 3337.70] So we've talked about what Sabbath is and who Sabbath is for. -[3339.00 --> 3340.42] But when is Sabbath? -[3341.28 --> 3342.74] Now, some of you are probably thinking, -[3342.86 --> 3344.48] well, you saved the easiest one for last. -[3345.20 --> 3346.54] And I mean, verse 15 of our text says, -[3346.64 --> 3348.04] for six days work is to be done, -[3348.08 --> 3350.82] but on the seventh day is a day of Sabbath rest, holy to the Lord. -[3351.24 --> 3352.52] Therefore, Sabbath is Sunday, right? -[3353.52 --> 3353.82] Done. -[3355.56 --> 3356.34] Or is it? -[3357.54 --> 3357.90] Right? -[3357.90 --> 3358.60] Because Jesus. -[3358.60 --> 3363.06] Jesus comes and changes everything. -[3363.88 --> 3365.14] He changes everything. -[3366.22 --> 3369.66] See, when Jesus came, he took all of these commandments, all ten of them, -[3369.78 --> 3370.76] and he blew them up. -[3371.36 --> 3372.12] He just blew them up. -[3372.40 --> 3373.46] He didn't get rid of them. -[3374.16 --> 3374.82] Don't hear me wrong. -[3374.86 --> 3375.58] He didn't get rid of them. -[3375.64 --> 3377.02] They're still very applicable. -[3377.02 --> 3379.70] In fact, he fulfilled them all. -[3380.44 --> 3381.98] He was very concerned with them. -[3382.84 --> 3384.06] But he did blow them up. -[3384.92 --> 3387.18] So for an example, do not make an idol in the image of God. -[3387.40 --> 3388.20] Jesus isn't talking. -[3388.46 --> 3389.08] He came along and said, -[3389.14 --> 3390.62] I'm not talking about crafting one out of wood. -[3391.42 --> 3394.84] But anything that becomes an ultimate thing becomes an idol in your life. -[3395.44 --> 3396.08] Do not murder. -[3396.08 --> 3403.18] Jesus says, anyone who hates someone or is angry with someone and doesn't want to resolve that conflict commits murder. -[3404.30 --> 3405.18] Do you not commit adultery? -[3405.52 --> 3409.34] Jesus says, if you look at someone lustfully, you have committed adultery in your heart. -[3410.78 --> 3414.66] Honestly, Jesus comes and redefines the boundaries of all of these commandments. -[3414.66 --> 3416.66] And Sabbath is no different. -[3417.94 --> 3421.74] Just like last week when Pastor Chris talked about how the tabernacle and the temple, -[3422.38 --> 3426.60] how they are no longer physical places, but they are now a body of believers. -[3427.28 --> 3430.52] Sabbath is now no longer a single holy day in a week. -[3431.12 --> 3436.42] But it's an eternal realization of the eternal rest we find in Jesus Christ. -[3437.16 --> 3442.16] In Jesus, Sabbath is no longer a holy day, but a holy eternity. -[3442.16 --> 3445.08] And it's not one that starts when we die. -[3445.68 --> 3451.62] But this holy Sabbath eternity starts once we believe in the gospel truth of Jesus Christ. -[3452.12 --> 3456.02] So let's just slow down for a second and look a little deeper at this. -[3456.60 --> 3459.40] There's a little bit more to that Heidelberg Catechism answer. -[3459.74 --> 3463.42] The second part of question and answer 103, it continues, and it says this. -[3464.28 --> 3468.10] It says that every day of my life, I rest from my evil ways. -[3469.48 --> 3471.48] This is how we are to respond to this commandment. -[3471.48 --> 3473.74] That every day of my life, I rest from my evil ways. -[3474.30 --> 3476.62] I let the Lord work in me through His Spirit. -[3477.20 --> 3481.66] And then so begin in this life the eternal Sabbath. -[3483.44 --> 3486.80] So I begin in this life the eternal Sabbath. -[3488.52 --> 3491.52] Now the Catechism here is referring to Hebrews 4. -[3492.00 --> 3494.78] And so I challenge you all, I encourage you all, actually I should say, -[3494.86 --> 3496.96] go home today, this week, read Hebrews 4. -[3496.96 --> 3499.14] If this is kind of mucking with your head, give that a read. -[3499.82 --> 3502.52] Because there we learn that Jesus came and offered rest. -[3502.90 --> 3505.96] Not just rest for a day, but rest for an eternity. -[3506.58 --> 3512.50] And not rest that we're to experience once a week, but rest that we can enter into daily. -[3513.22 --> 3514.92] Not when we die, but when we believe. -[3514.92 --> 3517.50] That's when Sabbath is. -[3518.28 --> 3521.18] That is when Sabbath is. -[3521.50 --> 3522.04] It's always. -[3523.18 --> 3526.98] It's on Sunday when you're at church here, and it's on Wednesday when you're at work. -[3527.14 --> 3530.24] It's when you're teaching, or when you're building, or when you're reading. -[3530.34 --> 3535.44] It's when you're working, or playing, when you're tired, when you're overwhelmed, or when you're bored. -[3535.44 --> 3540.38] While we gather here as his people on Sunday, Sabbath is for always. -[3541.28 --> 3545.64] And while we might treat Sunday with special reverence where we don't work, -[3546.22 --> 3549.72] that Sabbath day, that Sunday that we treat that way is a microcosm -[3549.72 --> 3553.04] for how our whole new lives in Jesus Christ should look. -[3553.88 --> 3556.24] These new lives of eternal rest. -[3556.24 --> 3561.34] And while we may practice a festive day of rest once a week, -[3561.38 --> 3562.50] remember that from that answer? -[3562.96 --> 3565.80] While we may practice a festive day of rest once a week, -[3566.64 --> 3568.12] God's Sabbath is for every day. -[3570.56 --> 3573.98] Jesus came and he gave us eternal rest in him. -[3574.06 --> 3575.90] He was born into this world, -[3575.90 --> 3579.46] and he lived this perfect life that we have all been called to live. -[3579.76 --> 3582.06] And then, and then he took our sinfulness, -[3582.70 --> 3584.08] and he took our burdens, -[3584.08 --> 3586.46] and he took everything that makes us weary, -[3586.46 --> 3588.22] and he took it with him, -[3588.22 --> 3589.24] and he put it on his shoulders, -[3589.24 --> 3590.42] and he went to the cross, -[3590.42 --> 3592.30] and he died with it, -[3592.44 --> 3593.90] taking all of that to the grave. -[3594.80 --> 3596.52] And then three days later, he rose again, -[3596.58 --> 3598.30] and he defeated not just sin, -[3598.72 --> 3599.74] and not just death, -[3600.02 --> 3602.74] but the weight of burdens we experience each and every day. -[3602.82 --> 3604.84] Now, please hear this. -[3606.04 --> 3608.26] If you hear one thing today, please hear this. -[3609.08 --> 3611.76] Just because Jesus lived the life we should have lived, -[3611.84 --> 3613.70] and died the death we deserve to die, -[3613.70 --> 3617.92] and he rose again victorious from the grave over sin and death and the burdens of the world, -[3617.92 --> 3622.28] just because he defeated all those things that exhaust us once and for all, -[3623.24 --> 3626.92] that does not mean that we will not sin in this world. -[3627.92 --> 3631.74] That does not mean that we will not die an earthly death in this world. -[3632.42 --> 3637.24] It also does not mean that we won't be burdened or weary or tired in this world. -[3637.24 --> 3639.72] But what it does mean, -[3639.72 --> 3641.70] the glorious truth of that, -[3641.96 --> 3643.82] is that even though we sin, -[3644.20 --> 3648.02] unlimited forgiveness and grace is available because of Jesus Christ. -[3648.52 --> 3649.94] And even though we will die, -[3650.28 --> 3653.94] eternal life is available for all people who believe in Jesus. -[3654.96 --> 3657.28] And even though we will get tired and weary, -[3657.70 --> 3661.84] eternal Sabbath rest is given to you by Jesus our Lord -[3661.84 --> 3665.84] when you remember and observe what he has done for you. -[3666.64 --> 3670.62] We find our eternal Sabbath rest in him now, -[3670.70 --> 3671.72] no later when we die, -[3671.86 --> 3672.60] right now, -[3672.72 --> 3673.74] not only on Sundays, -[3674.04 --> 3674.88] but right now, -[3675.12 --> 3675.80] next week, -[3676.36 --> 3676.82] Tuesday, -[3677.20 --> 3677.62] Thursday, -[3677.76 --> 3679.78] we find our rest in him. -[3680.06 --> 3684.26] And so what does it mean to find our rest in him? -[3685.18 --> 3686.12] We'll conclude with this. -[3687.64 --> 3688.04] Well, -[3688.08 --> 3688.24] first, -[3688.30 --> 3689.22] like we've been talking about, -[3689.70 --> 3693.30] we can't be too busy to miss what Jesus has done for us. -[3694.50 --> 3695.88] Sometimes I think we as Christians, -[3696.04 --> 3699.44] we gloss over this gospel truth that is so powerful in our lives -[3699.44 --> 3700.68] because we've heard it so many times. -[3701.00 --> 3703.56] Don't let the busyness of life let us forget this. -[3704.54 --> 3705.94] He's forgiven our sins. -[3706.06 --> 3707.34] He's given us eternal life. -[3707.44 --> 3710.32] He's provided us with eternal rest. -[3710.32 --> 3715.04] If we're too busy and we don't stop to remember and observe, -[3715.12 --> 3716.38] if we don't slow down, -[3717.30 --> 3719.76] we'll miss what he's done for us. -[3719.82 --> 3720.84] We'll miss this truth. -[3722.92 --> 3724.02] On the flip of that, -[3724.86 --> 3726.54] it's also not a matter of making lists, -[3727.02 --> 3728.82] a to-do list or a not to-do list. -[3729.86 --> 3731.78] Making a list of things we can't do -[3731.78 --> 3733.08] because we're trying to gain rest -[3733.08 --> 3734.64] becomes legalistic un-dizzyness. -[3735.12 --> 3736.98] We don't need a new legalism in our life. -[3738.12 --> 3740.16] We definitely don't need a new legalism in our worship. -[3740.32 --> 3743.64] What we need is a new posture. -[3745.18 --> 3746.96] Our understanding of Sabbath -[3746.96 --> 3748.40] needs to start by understanding -[3748.40 --> 3750.48] that we can give our burdens to Jesus. -[3750.62 --> 3751.84] In fact, he's taken them already. -[3753.24 --> 3755.90] While we still take a day once a week to come to church, -[3756.00 --> 3757.00] to stop our working, -[3757.10 --> 3758.90] to slow down our pace, -[3759.16 --> 3759.96] that's good. -[3761.00 --> 3762.80] But it's not because of some rule -[3762.80 --> 3764.64] that we need to find rest on that day -[3764.64 --> 3766.00] and only that day a week. -[3766.30 --> 3767.74] We slow down on Sundays -[3767.74 --> 3769.12] or maybe Saturdays or Mondays -[3769.12 --> 3770.08] or whatever Sabbath is. -[3770.32 --> 3772.64] But we slow down in order to understand -[3772.64 --> 3775.18] that rest is not something we get -[3775.18 --> 3776.40] because we stopped working. -[3777.64 --> 3779.84] Rest is something we've already gained -[3779.84 --> 3781.94] because of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. -[3781.94 --> 3788.32] We find our rest in Jesus once we wrap our head -[3788.32 --> 3790.56] around the fact that believing in Jesus -[3790.56 --> 3792.02] is not a once-a-week thing. -[3793.14 --> 3794.90] We find our rest in Jesus -[3794.90 --> 3797.88] once we see that Jesus changed everything. -[3799.94 --> 3801.34] He changed it always. -[3801.34 --> 3805.24] And that we aren't here to run that rat race of life, -[3805.24 --> 3806.96] but we're here to live in this world -[3806.96 --> 3809.36] as ambassadors for God's kingdom, -[3809.36 --> 3811.20] both now and when he comes again. -[3813.24 --> 3816.84] Don't stop working on Sundays to gain rest. -[3817.28 --> 3818.94] We've already received rest. -[3819.20 --> 3821.34] We've already gained eternal Sabbath. -[3821.34 --> 3823.92] So we can stop working so hard -[3823.92 --> 3825.32] for the frivolous things of this world. -[3825.56 --> 3828.04] Again, we don't stop to gain. -[3828.20 --> 3829.56] We've already gained. -[3830.08 --> 3834.70] So stop and remember and observe. -[3834.70 --> 3838.60] The temple moved from a place to a people, -[3838.72 --> 3840.00] and so now, like we said last week, -[3840.04 --> 3841.24] we gather and we scatter. -[3842.42 --> 3844.46] Sabbath has moved from a day to an eternity. -[3845.36 --> 3847.36] Now we gather on Sabbath to remember -[3847.36 --> 3850.84] and observe our Sabbath rest in him -[3850.84 --> 3852.64] so that when we scatter, -[3853.16 --> 3856.12] we can remember and observe our Sabbath rest -[3856.12 --> 3858.40] in the week, always, not just Sunday. -[3862.00 --> 3863.56] We find that rest in Jesus -[3863.56 --> 3864.84] any day of the week. -[3864.86 --> 3866.12] And whenever we slow down enough -[3866.12 --> 3868.08] to see what God has given us, -[3868.88 --> 3870.00] taking a day, a week, -[3870.08 --> 3871.94] to stop working and gather as his people, -[3872.32 --> 3873.24] hear his word together, -[3873.24 --> 3875.04] and eat, drink, and be together is good. -[3875.18 --> 3876.18] That's a good discipline. -[3876.56 --> 3879.50] But remembering that the Sabbath is eternal -[3879.50 --> 3882.78] is what will help us find ultimate rest in him -[3882.78 --> 3883.84] any day of the week. -[3886.52 --> 3888.54] Remembering and observing our rest in Jesus Christ -[3888.54 --> 3889.86] is up to each of us to do, -[3889.96 --> 3891.22] as a community for sure, -[3891.30 --> 3892.74] also separately, individually. -[3893.56 --> 3896.02] And so will you find your rest in Jesus today? -[3897.60 --> 3899.38] Will you find that rest again tomorrow -[3899.38 --> 3900.84] when you're working -[3900.84 --> 3902.84] or the next day after that? -[3904.12 --> 3905.72] He's granted you eternal rest. -[3906.72 --> 3908.72] So let's not run this rat race of life -[3908.72 --> 3911.30] or make this unofficial rule book we've created -[3911.30 --> 3913.42] cause us to miss that. -[3913.80 --> 3914.04] Amen? -[3914.04 --> 3914.14] Amen? -[3914.98 --> 3915.72] Let me pray. -[3915.72 --> 3922.14] Father in heaven, -[3922.14 --> 3925.84] Jesus Christ our Lord, -[3925.96 --> 3927.64] you changed everything. -[3928.96 --> 3929.44] Everything. -[3931.20 --> 3933.24] And God, you call us to rest. -[3934.04 --> 3936.14] You emphatically call us to rest. -[3936.72 --> 3938.30] You call us to remember the Sabbath, -[3938.44 --> 3939.40] to observe the Sabbath, -[3939.40 --> 3940.90] because by doing that, -[3941.32 --> 3942.70] we can know that you are God -[3942.70 --> 3943.56] and you make us holy. -[3944.80 --> 3946.74] Lord, let us not pigeonhole this. -[3947.76 --> 3948.52] Let us understand -[3948.52 --> 3949.74] that you sent your Son -[3949.74 --> 3951.92] to live, to die, -[3951.98 --> 3952.84] and to rise again -[3952.84 --> 3954.02] so that we may receive -[3954.02 --> 3955.26] eternal rest always. -[3956.40 --> 3957.80] And God, we will still be weary, -[3957.92 --> 3958.92] we will still be burdened, -[3958.96 --> 3959.88] but you are God -[3959.88 --> 3961.06] and we can come to you. -[3961.24 --> 3962.44] When we are feeling that way, -[3962.50 --> 3963.48] let us slow down. -[3963.48 --> 3967.44] Let us come to you. -[3968.60 --> 3970.20] Actually come to you. -[3973.12 --> 3974.58] And God, we just pray that you, -[3974.70 --> 3975.20] as you promised, -[3975.30 --> 3976.54] will take our burdens from us. -[3976.72 --> 3978.58] May we remember who you are. -[3979.28 --> 3981.40] May we observe what you have done for us, -[3981.54 --> 3982.38] not just today, -[3982.76 --> 3984.72] but tomorrow and the next day. -[3985.36 --> 3986.64] And God, may that become -[3986.64 --> 3988.28] a regular rhythm in our life. -[3989.06 --> 3990.94] Allow your rest to penetrate our lives, -[3991.02 --> 3991.34] we pray, -[3991.42 --> 3993.34] in your Son's precious and holy name. -[3993.60 --> 3993.80] Amen. -[4019.80 --> 4023.42] Thank you for saving -[4023.42 --> 4028.42] What can I say? -[4028.42 --> 4035.88] You are my everything. -[4035.88 --> 4041.80] I will sing your praise. -[4041.80 --> 4047.80] You shed your blood for me. -[4047.80 --> 4052.80] What can I say? -[4052.80 --> 4059.80] You took my sin and shame. -[4059.80 --> 4066.26] A sinner called my name. -[4066.26 --> 4078.26] Great is the Lord. -[4078.26 --> 4081.26] Great is the Lord. -[4081.26 --> 4088.26] Great is the Lord. -[4088.26 --> 4089.26] God, God. -[4089.26 --> 4090.26] You have set your heart. -[4090.26 --> 4093.26] For we know your truth -[4093.26 --> 4100.26] earth has set us free. -[4100.26 --> 4102.34] You've set your heart. -[4102.34 --> 4106.26] You set your heart. -[4106.26 --> 4109.26] You set your heart in me. -[4109.26 --> 4111.26] in me. -[4116.20 --> 4119.20] Mercy and -[4119.20 --> 4122.26] grace are mine. -[4122.72 --> 4125.50] Forgiven is my -[4125.50 --> 4127.26] sin. -[4128.84 --> 4131.10] Jesus, my -[4131.10 --> 4133.26] only hope, -[4134.72 --> 4137.40] Savior of the -[4137.40 --> 4139.16] world. -[4140.56 --> 4141.30] Great -[4141.30 --> 4143.86] is the Lord -[4143.86 --> 4145.68] we cry. -[4145.68 --> 4147.14] Let your -[4147.14 --> 4149.68] kingdom come. -[4151.96 --> 4153.64] Your word -[4153.64 --> 4156.02] has let me -[4156.02 --> 4157.28] sing. -[4157.64 --> 4158.72] Thank you for -[4158.72 --> 4161.68] saving me. -[4161.68 --> 4166.64] Great -[4166.64 --> 4169.06] is -[4170.66 --> 4171.76] the -[4171.76 --> 4173.72] Lord. -[4176.72 --> 4178.58] Great -[4178.58 --> 4180.00] is -[4180.00 --> 4181.64] the -[4181.64 --> 4183.80] Lord. -[4183.90 --> 4185.02] Theme -[4185.02 --> 4185.64] for both -[4185.64 --> 4197.46] For we know your truth has set us free. -[4197.98 --> 4207.98] You set your hope in me. -[4215.64 --> 4225.28] Just a reminder that after the service today we'll have coffee in the foyer and if any kids are in the kids choir for I believe it's Easter, there is a practice. -[4225.60 --> 4230.06] So after the service today if you're a kid or you have a kid, I guess they're probably all out there, they're not here. -[4230.54 --> 4232.76] But parents send your kids there, that's where they're supposed to be. -[4234.22 --> 4242.34] Please receive this parting blessing coming from number six and I'm going to ask you to respond in amen after I say something in Spanish at the end. -[4242.52 --> 4244.80] So this parting blessing in number six. -[4245.64 --> 4247.72] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[4248.28 --> 4252.22] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[4252.86 --> 4256.74] The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace. -[4257.50 --> 4258.54] Dios te bendiga. -[4259.68 --> 4260.08] Amen. -[4265.20 --> 4271.28] As we sing our parting song of worship this morning, we end with these words from Joshua 24. -[4272.12 --> 4275.14] Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve. -[4275.64 --> 4279.16] But for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. -[4279.16 --> 4279.32] Amen. -[4279.32 --> 4279.96] Amen. -[4279.96 --> 4280.36] Amen. -[4280.36 --> 4299.86] Today I choose to follow you. -[4299.86 --> 4307.58] Today I choose to give my yes to you. -[4307.58 --> 4315.54] Today I choose to hear your voice and live today. -[4315.54 --> 4321.78] Today I choose to follow you. -[4321.78 --> 4329.92] As for me and my house, we will serve you. -[4329.92 --> 4339.46] As for me and my house, we will spend our lives on you today. -[4339.46 --> 4344.46] Today I choose to follow you. -[4344.46 --> 4360.60] Today I choose to follow you. -[4360.60 --> 4367.60] Today I choose to give my yes to you. -[4367.60 --> 4368.60] Today I choose to give my yes to you. -[4368.60 --> 4376.60] Today I choose to hear your voice and live today. -[4376.60 --> 4383.60] Today I choose to follow you. -[4383.60 --> 4385.60] Today I choose to follow you. -[4385.60 --> 4387.60] Today I choose to follow you. -[4387.60 --> 4402.04] Today I choose tounts your faces,gespre to follow you. -[4402.04 --> 4408.90] So grateful we offer. -[4408.90 --> 4418.34] As for me and my house, we will spend our lives on you today. -[4421.30 --> 4435.70] Wonderful Counselor, Everlasting Father, Eternal King, Lord of hosts, willingly we follow. -[4435.70 --> 4450.96] Wonderful Counselor, Everlasting Father, Eternal King, Lord of hosts, willingly we follow. -[4450.96 --> 4459.96] Today I choose to follow you. -[4461.40 --> 4468.70] Today I choose to give my yes to you. -[4468.96 --> 4476.46] Today I choose to hear your voice and live. -[4476.46 --> 4483.42] Today I choose to follow you. -[4483.42 --> 4500.24] Today I choose to answer your voice and relate to your thing. -[4500.24 --> 4511.04] Thanks, guys. -[4530.24 --> 4560.22] Thank you. -[4560.24 --> 4590.22] Thank you. -[4590.24 --> 4620.22] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - March 5, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - March 5, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 5abf6aa3287d225c0b117f21526b92238c8afe67..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - March 5, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,122 +0,0 @@ -• Invocation of God, praising and worshiping Him -• Announcements: - • Upcoming prayer service on Wednesday at 7 p.m. - • Spring Mexico team fundraising event - • Pancake breakfast before the going away service next Sunday - • Youth coffee after service today - • Young adults board games event tonight -• Upcoming church classes and regional gathering -• Volunteer opportunities for setup and preparation -• Invitation to worship and acknowledge God's presence -• Worship song and hymns celebrating redemption, hope, and praise -• Song of surrender and devotion -• Prayer for confession and forgiveness -• Psalm 32 reading and prayer -• Personal prayer for healing, strength, and guidance -• Praise and worship with repetition of "For you are good" -• Discussion of personal faith and relationship with Jesus -• Heidelberg Catechism quoted as response to question on comfort in life and death -• Praise and worship song lyrics referencing the power and love of God -• Introduction to World Renew Canada Foods Grain Bank and special offering for hunger relief -• Video presentation on community's work together to thrive -• Hymn singing, including "Take My Life" and "Let Them Flow" -• Invitation to children to participate in front during worship time -• Discussion of the importance of perseverance -• Definition of perseverance discussed, including not giving up when something is hard -• Story shared about a family hike where children had to work hard and persevere to reach the top -• Discussion of Bible story involving David and perseverance -• Call for congregation members to share their own stories of persevering through challenging situations -• Family prayer led by Sam, including reading from Psalm 121 and praying for various needs and concerns -• The congregation prays for comfort and peace during a difficult time, thinking of others who are mourning loss. -• Prayers are offered for Sai, Amy Kron, and other individuals dealing with illness or disease. -• The congregation lifts up their leaders and young people preparing to minister in Mexico. -• Prayers are given for the upcoming Lord's Supper, self-examination, and forgiveness. -• Requests are made for wisdom, guidance, and blessings for various church classes and activities. -• Pastor Chris is asked to be blessed as he leads preaching of God's word. -• A hymn is sung expressing reliance on Christ for salvation. -• The congregation prays for power, wisdom, and preparation for upcoming events. -• Scripture reading begins from Romans 4:1-17. -• The nature of blessedness and forgiveness -• Circumcision and faith as requirements for righteousness -• Abraham's faith and its significance -• The promise of righteousness through faith, not law -• The role of faith in guaranteeing the promise to all offspring of Abraham -• Discussion of the concept of faith and its various meanings -• Clarification that in Jude, "faith" refers to the Christian religion as a system of beliefs and doctrine -• Explanation that the Bible only uses "faith" to refer to Christianity and not other religious ideas or groups -• Critique of the idea that having enough faith can lead to specific outcomes or gifts from God (e.g. healing, success) -• The speaker discusses the concept of spiritual abuse and its connection to faith -• They differentiate between facts (e.g. gravity) and faith, emphasizing that faith is a "leap beyond reason" -• Faith is described as having an object, and its validity is determined by the validity of the object of faith -• In Christianity, faith is not about intensity of feeling but rather resting on a valid object -• The speaker references a previous sermon where it was explained that faith has an object in the Bible -• The speaker is joking about their own hairline and compares it unfavorably to Levi Huberts. -• The Christian faith is discussed, focusing on the person of Jesus Christ and the promise of the gospel. -• The historical fact that God took on flesh through Jesus Christ is emphasized. -• The significance of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection are explained as essential components of the Christian faith. -• The importance of Jesus' resurrection for Christians is highlighted, referencing 1 Corinthians 15. -• The resurrection of Jesus is considered a hinge in history -• Calendar systems and date counting methods have been debated -• The concept of Before Christ (BC) and Anno Domini (AD) vs Common Era (CE) -• Faith has its object in the person of Jesus Christ and the promise of the gospel -• The resurrection guarantees salvation for all who believe -• God's heart and choice of Israel, including Abraham and David as examples -• Boasting and the law, with boasting excluded due to faith -• Chapter 4: Abraham's justification by faith, not works -• The Greek word "credited" and its meaning in relation to faith and righteousness -• The concept of faith being counted as righteousness, citing Abraham's story in Genesis -• The distinction between faith and righteousness, with faith not inherently making someone righteous -• God treating people as if they were living a righteous life based on their faith, even if they are still sinners -• Examples from the Bible of imperfect individuals (Abraham and David) who had faith and were considered righteous by God -• The concept of being simultaneously righteous and sinful -• Imputed righteousness, where the perfect righteousness of Jesus is credited to believers -• The difference between earning salvation through works versus receiving it as a gift by faith -• Wages vs gifts: how work is rewarded rather than freely given -• Salvation as a requirement rather than a gift if one can earn it through works -• Merited by works vs credited without regard for actions -• Salvation as a form of work or effort -• Christian faith and salvation often seen as operationalized through works or efforts -• Tension between faith and works in understanding salvation -• Human tendency to think salvation is earned through good behavior -• Need for balance between faith and works in achieving salvation -• Discussion of faith and its intensity -• Differentiating between works-based and trusting faith -• Explanation of saving faith as trusting in Jesus Christ -• Warning against seeking self-justification through performance or morality -• Addressing anxiety about salvation and forgiveness -• Faith is not something that can be earned or lost -• True faith is trusting in God's ability to save, not one's own trust or abilities -• Paul writes about Abraham receiving righteousness through faith before being circumcised -• Righteousness comes from faith in God, not from external actions or identities -• Circumcision as a sign and seal of spiritual reality -• The Lord's Table as a sign and seal of spiritual reality -• Receiving what has already been declared to be ours -• Faith as the means by which promises are received -• God's promise to Abraham that he would be heir of the world, received through faith -• The guarantee of salvation comes only through the promise that comes by faith -• The story of Abraham and Isaac illustrates the concept of life from death -• The resurrection of Jesus is a central theme in Christianity -• Faith in God is not irrational, but rather a reasonable response to who God is -• Faith without reason can be seen as "feudalism" or an excessive emotional dependence on God -• Reason without faith can lead to rationalism, which is also incorrect according to Paul's teachings in Ephesians 2 -• The definition of faith -• Trust in Jesus and the promise of the gospel as a gift from God -• Exercising faith through belief that makes the gift real -• Abraham's story as an example of faith, including his waiting for a child despite advanced age and barrenness -• Belief being greater than how we feel or what appears to be true -• Faith is not opposed to reason, but sometimes opposed to feelings and appearances -• The nature and power of God, including his ability to create life and call things into being -• The importance of trusting in God's promises and word, even when it contradicts human feelings or popular opinion -• Believing in God leads to belonging to His people and family -• Faith, not works or human achievement, is the means by which one comes to God -• Justification by faith is a promise available to all Abraham's offspring, both circumcised and uncircumcised -• The concept of salvation as individual and communal -• The importance of community in the Christian faith -• Trusting in God's character, Jesus Christ, and the gospel promise -• Belonging to God and to each other through faith -• Hope in life and death through Christ alone -• Eternal life and joy through redemption in Christ -• Worship service including singing and prayer -• Invitation to connect with others after the service -• Offer of prayer for visitors and congregation members -• Blessing and benediction closing the service \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - March 5, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - March 5, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 5f526c307e27714f5d2689a5f520fe0856fc2ff5..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - March 5, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2558 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.12] Oh, oh, and again, and again. -[6.78 --> 16.58] Oh, oh, and again, and again. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Oh, oh, and again. -[60.00 --> 62.50] Lord, we will wait upon you. -[62.80 --> 68.40] Oh God, you reign forever. -[69.78 --> 74.58] Our hope, our stone deliver. -[78.58 --> 83.58] You are the everlasting God. -[83.58 --> 88.82] The everlasting God. -[88.82 --> 96.46] You do not think you will grow weary. -[97.92 --> 102.82] You're the defender of the weak. -[103.76 --> 107.62] You comfort those in need. -[107.62 --> 115.78] You lift us up on wings like you go. -[115.78 --> 135.64] Oh God, you reign forever. -[135.64 --> 140.04] You reign forever -[140.04 --> 145.74] Our hope, our strong deliver -[145.74 --> 155.74] You are the everlasting God -[155.74 --> 160.44] The everlasting God -[160.44 --> 164.74] You do not think you won't -[164.74 --> 168.04] Grow weary -[168.04 --> 174.46] You're the defender of the weak -[174.46 --> 179.24] You comfort those in need -[179.24 --> 187.68] You lift us up always like egos -[187.68 --> 206.98] Oh God, you reign forever -[206.98 --> 215.08] Our hope, our strong deliver -[215.08 --> 222.28] You are the everlasting God -[222.28 --> 226.28] The everlasting God -[226.28 --> 233.28] You do not think you won't -[233.28 --> 236.00] Oh really -[236.00 --> 241.28] You're the defender of the weak -[241.28 --> 245.58] You comfort those in need -[245.58 --> 254.00] You lift us up always like egos -[254.00 --> 269.30] You are the everlasting God -[269.30 --> 274.00] The everlasting God -[274.00 --> 279.00] You do not think you won't -[279.00 --> 279.30] You do not think you won't -[279.30 --> 281.72] Grow weary -[281.72 --> 288.10] You're the defender of the weak -[288.10 --> 293.10] You comfort those in need -[293.10 --> 301.10] You lift us up always like egos -[301.10 --> 303.10] You lift us up always like egos -[303.10 --> 315.38] You do not think you won't -[315.38 --> 316.44] You lift us up always like egos -[316.44 --> 317.44] Amen. -[346.44 --> 348.44] Amen. -[376.44 --> 378.44] Amen. -[406.44 --> 408.44] Amen. -[436.44 --> 438.44] Amen. -[466.44 --> 468.44] Amen. -[496.44 --> 498.44] Amen. -[526.44 --> 549.58] Good morning. -[551.64 --> 553.52] We got there eventually. -[553.68 --> 553.90] Great. -[554.30 --> 555.90] Welcome to worship. -[556.44 --> 561.90] My name is Chris, I'm one of the pastors here, and it's my privilege, along with a few others -[561.90 --> 567.60] here on stage, and some people you don't yet see, anticipation to lead you in our shared -[567.60 --> 569.46] worship together this morning. -[570.26 --> 573.64] Before we begin, we have a couple of announcements, and so I'm going to invite Brandon to come -[573.64 --> 579.58] up and get ready for that, and while he's making his way up, I want to just let you -[579.58 --> 584.12] know that on Wednesday night, this coming week, Wednesday night, we are going to have -[584.12 --> 590.54] a prayer service here at 7 p.m., and so you're all invited to join us as we gather together -[590.54 --> 595.02] to pray for the ministries of our church and our denomination and for the kingdom of God -[595.02 --> 602.60] throughout the world, and we will pray in song and spoken in large group and in small group, -[602.60 --> 609.30] and so we encourage you all to come Wednesday evening, 7 p.m., here for that prayer time -[609.30 --> 609.86] together. -[609.86 --> 614.32] Yeah, two things from the Spring Mexico team. -[614.94 --> 617.52] One is thank you for everybody who came out last night to the Mexico dinner. -[618.06 --> 620.18] We did amazing in terms of fundraising. -[620.40 --> 624.28] I think everybody had a good time as well, but it was, it actually did break, at least -[624.28 --> 628.40] in 17 years, is the most money we've ever raised, so thank you for that, guys. -[628.42 --> 628.94] That was awesome. -[629.40 --> 629.72] Congratulations. -[630.06 --> 631.20] A round of applause for you. -[631.20 --> 638.74] The second one is, we're next Sunday, which is, I believe, also our going away service -[638.74 --> 643.62] thingy, whatever they call that, we're doing a pancake breakfast beforehand for the congregation. -[643.82 --> 644.68] Again, it's by donation. -[644.76 --> 645.92] There's no minimum donation, though. -[645.96 --> 648.92] It's more just, we're trying to cover the cost of the pancake stuff and just have a good -[648.92 --> 649.56] time with you guys. -[649.56 --> 654.38] So for that one, that'll, doors will open around kind of 8.30, we'll start serving pancakes. -[654.58 --> 659.18] By 9.30, the pancakes will be going away and we'll be rushing to clean up for church again. -[659.40 --> 662.06] So just hope to see you all there for that, too. -[662.16 --> 662.48] Thank you. -[662.48 --> 672.40] Continuing with some announcements. -[673.54 --> 679.68] After service today is youth coffee, and so that's for everyone in our youth ministry. -[680.36 --> 685.24] You are heading out to a member's house for coffee together. -[685.72 --> 689.70] If you have any questions about that, you can grab Pastor Kevin and he'll give you directions -[689.70 --> 691.18] and location and the like. -[691.18 --> 700.20] As well, this evening is a young adults board games event here at the church, and I've been -[700.20 --> 704.42] told that you can talk to Big Jerry about who that is. -[708.10 --> 709.30] That's Jared, right? -[709.46 --> 709.64] Yeah? -[709.78 --> 709.96] Okay. -[710.06 --> 712.04] So you can talk to Jared, Big Jerry. -[712.18 --> 713.18] That's a new one for me, man. -[714.22 --> 716.14] And he will give you details on that. -[716.14 --> 721.90] Additionally, this week, our church is hosting classes. -[722.90 --> 728.94] Classes is the regional gathering of Christian Reformed churches, and we are meeting here on -[728.94 --> 731.46] Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday morning. -[731.86 --> 736.32] And so to help facilitate that, we have a number of volunteers who are making that happen, -[736.40 --> 737.70] and we're so grateful for you. -[737.70 --> 741.86] But we also need to set up this space for the meeting. -[742.58 --> 748.10] And so tomorrow night, Monday night at 7 o'clock, a group of us will be gathering here to stack -[748.10 --> 749.72] chairs and pool tables and the like. -[749.78 --> 752.88] If you're available for that, many hands make light work. -[753.34 --> 755.78] Please come tomorrow night, 7 o'clock. -[755.88 --> 756.78] We'll set that up. -[756.78 --> 762.70] Hopefully, it will only take half an hour, 45 minutes or so, and then we can be ready for -[762.70 --> 764.42] Tuesday morning with that. -[766.66 --> 768.50] I think those are my announcements. -[768.78 --> 774.58] And so I'm going to invite you, as you are able to stand, as we are ushered into the presence -[774.58 --> 778.68] of our God, we are greeted by Him here in worship. -[778.68 --> 785.70] One of the special and amazing privileges of worship is that when we gather as the people -[785.70 --> 792.24] of God around His Word and to sing His praises, God promises to show up in mighty and powerful -[792.24 --> 792.68] ways. -[793.36 --> 799.42] So God is here, and He invites you now to Himself, and so receive His greeting. -[800.76 --> 807.20] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, His Son, -[807.20 --> 811.26] and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[812.30 --> 812.70] Amen. -[837.20 --> 857.28] Let us worship God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ. -[857.66 --> 858.94] We are new creations. -[859.58 --> 861.36] The old is gone, and the new has come. -[861.88 --> 866.02] Let us worship God as Christ's ambassadors, through us and through our worship. -[866.02 --> 868.24] May we announce the good news to all. -[868.78 --> 870.94] Let us worship God in spirit and in truth. -[871.40 --> 872.08] Praise God. -[872.30 --> 873.26] We are reconciled. -[873.48 --> 874.22] We are redeemed. -[874.48 --> 875.22] And we are renewed. -[875.22 --> 899.62] Come, people of the risen King, who delight to bring Him praise. -[899.62 --> 907.88] Come, people of the risen King, who delight to bring Him praise. -[907.88 --> 916.04] From the shifting shadows of the earth, we will lift our eyes to Him. -[916.04 --> 924.26] Where steady arms of mercy reach to gather children in. -[924.26 --> 933.08] Rejoice, rejoice, let every tongue rejoice. -[933.08 --> 937.24] One heart, one voice. -[937.24 --> 940.60] All Church of Christ, rejoice. -[940.60 --> 943.02] Come, people of the risen King, who delight to bring Him praise. -[943.02 --> 944.62] Come, people of the risen King, who delight to bring Him praise. -[944.62 --> 950.26] Come, those who tell our battle's won, and our struggling in the fight. -[950.26 --> 956.26] morning sun and those weeping through the night -[956.26 --> 962.26] come those who tell -[964.26 --> 972.26] for his perfect love will never change and his mercies never cease -[972.26 --> 980.26] but follow us through all our days with a certain hope of peace -[980.26 --> 988.26] rejoice rejoice let every tongue rejoice -[988.26 --> 996.26] one heart one glory oh church of christ rejoice -[996.26 --> 1008.26] come young and old from every land -[1008.26 --> 1012.26] men and women of the faith -[1012.26 --> 1016.26] come those with full or empty hands -[1016.26 --> 1020.26] find the riches of his grace -[1020.26 --> 1024.26] over all the world his people sing -[1024.26 --> 1028.26] sure to sure we hear them call -[1028.26 --> 1032.26] the truth that cries through every -[1032.26 --> 1036.26] our God is all in all -[1036.26 --> 1040.26] rejoice rejoice -[1040.26 --> 1044.26] let every tongue rejoice -[1044.26 --> 1050.26] one heart one voice -[1050.26 --> 1054.26] oh church of christ rejoice -[1054.26 --> 1056.26] rejoice rejoice -[1056.26 --> 1060.26] let every tongue rejoice -[1060.26 --> 1064.26] one heart one voice -[1064.26 --> 1068.26] oh church of christ rejoice -[1068.26 --> 1078.26] joy -[1078.26 --> 1080.26] oh -[1080.26 --> 1082.26] oh -[1082.26 --> 1084.26] oh -[1084.26 --> 1086.26] oh -[1086.26 --> 1088.26] oh -[1088.26 --> 1090.26] oh -[1090.26 --> 1092.26] oh -[1092.26 --> 1094.26] oh -[1094.26 --> 1096.26] oh -[1096.26 --> 1098.26] oh -[1098.26 --> 1102.26] oh -[1104.26 --> 1106.26] oh -[1106.26 --> 1108.26] oh -[1108.26 --> 1110.26] oh -[1110.26 --> 1112.26] oh -[1112.26 --> 1114.26] oh -[1114.26 --> 1116.26] hold my heart -[1116.26 --> 1118.26] oh -[1118.26 --> 1120.26] oh -[1120.26 --> 1122.26] oh -[1122.26 --> 1124.26] oh -[1124.26 --> 1130.14] Call for songs of loudest praise -[1130.14 --> 1136.06] Teach me some melodious sonnet -[1136.06 --> 1141.50] Sung by flaming tongues above -[1141.50 --> 1147.46] Praise the mount I'm fixed upon it -[1147.46 --> 1153.62] Mount of thy redeeming love -[1153.62 --> 1167.06] Here I raise my Ebenezer -[1167.06 --> 1172.24] Hither by thy help I've come -[1172.24 --> 1178.00] And I hope by thy good pleasure -[1178.00 --> 1183.34] Safely to arrive at home -[1183.34 --> 1189.20] Jesus sought me when a stranger -[1189.20 --> 1194.72] Wandering from the fold of God -[1194.72 --> 1200.38] He to rescue me from danger -[1200.38 --> 1205.34] Interposed his precious blood -[1205.34 --> 1219.72] Oh to grace how great a debtor -[1219.72 --> 1225.20] Daily I'm constrained to be -[1225.20 --> 1231.06] Let thy goodness like a fatter -[1231.06 --> 1236.58] Find my wandering heart to thee -[1236.58 --> 1242.44] Prone to wonder Lord I feel it -[1242.44 --> 1247.96] Prone to leave the God I love -[1247.96 --> 1250.96] Here's my heart Lord -[1250.96 --> 1253.44] Take and seal it -[1253.44 --> 1261.96] Seal it for thy courts above all else -[1261.96 --> 1267.82] I adore your name -[1267.82 --> 1273.34] Above all else -[1273.34 --> 1279.26] Tune my heart to sing your praise -[1279.26 --> 1284.34] Above all else -[1284.34 --> 1295.72] I adore your name -[1295.72 --> 1297.72] Above all else -[1297.72 --> 1301.72] I adore your name -[1301.72 --> 1313.10] Above all else -[1313.10 --> 1317.10] Above all else -[1317.10 --> 1318.58] Tune my heart to sing your praise -[1318.58 --> 1319.10] Above all else -[1319.10 --> 1320.10] To sing your praise -[1320.10 --> 1320.48] To sing your praise -[1320.48 --> 1324.96] Above all else -[1324.96 --> 1330.48] Tune my heart to sing your praise -[1330.48 --> 1331.48] Above all else -[1331.48 --> 1341.58] To sing your praise -[1341.58 --> 1343.34] Above all else -[1343.34 --> 1343.86] Tune my heart to sing your praise -[1343.86 --> 1344.36] The highest praise -[1344.36 --> 1344.94] The highest praise -[1344.94 --> 1346.30] The loudest praise -[1346.30 --> 1350.42] To the name of all -[1350.42 --> 1352.44] Every name -[1352.44 --> 1377.32] every day -[1382.44 --> 1389.04] This is our time for a prayer of confession. -[1391.04 --> 1395.62] There will be a pause where we can reflect on our own confessions. -[1397.56 --> 1398.52] Let's pray. -[1403.40 --> 1405.74] O God, our great shepherd, -[1406.60 --> 1409.40] you tenderly gather us as lambs, -[1409.40 --> 1412.96] carrying us with all your embracing love. -[1415.68 --> 1419.36] Yet, like sheep, we wander from you, -[1420.40 --> 1423.58] following our own ways, ignoring your voice, -[1424.40 --> 1428.20] trusting, distrusting your provisions. -[1430.60 --> 1433.54] Forgive our stubborn rebellion, our hardened hearts, -[1434.14 --> 1435.34] our lack of trust. -[1435.34 --> 1440.78] Refresh us once again by your quiet waters of mercy, -[1441.56 --> 1444.08] and restore our souls by your redeeming love. -[1445.96 --> 1449.92] Guide our paths that we might follow you more closely. -[1449.92 --> 1450.92] Amen. -[1450.92 --> 1451.92] Amen. -[1455.36 --> 1473.80] We pray this through Jesus Christ, our good shepherd. -[1475.54 --> 1476.30] Amen. -[1476.30 --> 1479.70] From Psalm 32, -[1480.08 --> 1483.04] Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, -[1483.84 --> 1485.26] whose sins are covered. -[1486.24 --> 1490.90] Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord does not count against them, -[1491.58 --> 1493.70] and in whose spirit is no deceit. -[1493.70 --> 1495.42] Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, -[1495.42 --> 1503.58] especially if the angemise. -[1503.58 --> 1503.84] We pray this through Jesus Christ, our love. -[1503.84 --> 1506.06] It was the one whose contributing to Jesus Christ, our love. -[1507.06 --> 1510.82] That we pay for which with theBN whoever. -[1512.46 --> 1514.80] Great is integral, our friend and connect emocion Baby. -[1514.80 --> 1517.18] On thisema in his Son, and God extend praise our party, -[1517.84 --> 1518.30] our Group of God. -[1518.30 --> 1519.58] as Padre was a band... -[1519.58 --> 1522.82] For your hand of mercy to heal me, -[1522.82 --> 1527.08] I am weak. -[1527.78 --> 1532.18] I need your love to free me. -[1532.44 --> 1539.82] Oh, Lord, my rock, my strength and weakness. -[1541.10 --> 1544.82] Come rescue me. -[1544.82 --> 1550.82] Oh, Lord, you are my hope. -[1550.82 --> 1557.56] Your promise never fails me. -[1557.90 --> 1565.62] And my desire is to follow you forever. -[1566.68 --> 1568.32] For you are good. -[1568.84 --> 1570.60] For you are good. -[1570.60 --> 1574.60] For you are good to me. -[1575.50 --> 1577.26] For you are good. -[1577.26 --> 1579.34] For you are good. -[1579.34 --> 1584.22] For you are good to me. -[1584.22 --> 1596.04] I cry out for your hand of mercy to heal me. -[1596.44 --> 1599.26] I am weak. -[1599.26 --> 1604.14] I need your love to free me. -[1604.14 --> 1612.78] Oh, Lord, my rock, my strength and weakness. -[1612.78 --> 1614.78] Come rescue me. -[1614.78 --> 1620.66] Come rescue me, oh, Lord. -[1620.66 --> 1623.38] You are my hope. -[1623.38 --> 1629.32] Your promise never fails me. -[1629.32 --> 1637.20] And my desire is to follow you forever. -[1637.20 --> 1638.02] For you are good. -[1638.02 --> 1642.54] For you are good. -[1642.54 --> 1646.72] For you are good to me. -[1646.94 --> 1648.90] For you are good. -[1648.90 --> 1650.02] For you are good. -[1650.02 --> 1652.28] For you are good. -[1652.28 --> 1654.28] to me -[1654.86 --> 1656.20] Oh you are -[1656.20 --> 1656.68] good -[1656.68 --> 1658.30] Oh you are -[1658.30 --> 1662.28] good to -[1662.28 --> 1663.28] me -[1663.28 --> 1664.70] Oh you are -[1664.70 --> 1665.16] good -[1665.16 --> 1666.82] Oh you are -[1666.82 --> 1670.48] good to -[1670.48 --> 1672.28] me -[1672.28 --> 1679.94] Our response is going to come from -[1679.94 --> 1682.26] Heidelberg Catechism, Question and Answer -[1682.26 --> 1684.44] 1 which we will do responsibly -[1684.44 --> 1685.82] and I ask you to stand -[1685.82 --> 1687.86] to join me in -[1687.86 --> 1690.54] answering this question -[1690.54 --> 1694.60] What is -[1694.60 --> 1696.50] your only comfort in life -[1696.50 --> 1697.14] and in death? -[1698.14 --> 1699.42] For I am not -[1699.42 --> 1701.14] proud of the long -[1701.14 --> 1702.40] of all of your souls -[1702.40 --> 1704.30] in life and in death -[1704.30 --> 1705.92] in my faithful spirit -[1705.92 --> 1707.04] and in life -[1707.04 --> 1708.86] we have been totally -[1708.86 --> 1710.54] here in all our sins -[1710.54 --> 1712.52] for His -[1712.54 --> 1712.74] and to help -[1712.74 --> 1738.82] theлад -[1740.54 --> 1754.54] right -[1763.58 --> 1769.90] who breaks the power of skin and darkness whose love is mighty -[1769.90 --> 1779.90] and so much stronger the king of glory the king of all things -[1780.46 --> 1789.82] who shakes the whole earth with holy thunder and leaves us breathless in awe and wonder the king of -[1789.82 --> 1794.94] glory the king of all kings -[1794.94 --> 1804.94] this is amazing -[1804.94 --> 1812.94] you laid my place -[1812.94 --> 1816.94] that you would bear my cross -[1816.94 --> 1830.94] i would be set free -[1835.42 --> 1845.82] who brings our chaos back into order who makes the orphan a son and daughter the king of glory -[1845.82 --> 1859.82] the king of glory the king of glory -[1870.54 --> 1873.82] that you would take my place -[1873.82 --> 1877.82] that you would bear my cross -[1877.82 --> 1881.82] you laid down your life -[1881.82 --> 1887.82] that i would be set free -[1887.82 --> 1893.82] oh jesus i sing for all that you've done for me -[1893.82 --> 1907.82] worthy is the king who conquered the grave -[1907.82 --> 1917.82] worthy is the king who conquered the grave worthy is the land who was saved -[1917.82 --> 1925.82] worthy is the king who conquered the grave worthy is the land who was saved -[1925.82 --> 1931.82] worthy worthy worthy worthy worthy oh this is amazing -[1931.82 --> 1937.82] this is -[1937.82 --> 1939.82] is the king who conquered the grave -[1939.82 --> 1941.82] that you would take my place -[1941.82 --> 1943.82] that you would bear my cross -[1943.82 --> 1945.82] you would -[1945.82 --> 1951.82] oh -[1951.82 --> 1959.82] Oh, Jesus, I sing for all that you've done for me -[1978.22 --> 1979.60] I invite you to be seated. -[1981.82 --> 2001.42] Hello. -[2001.42 --> 2004.34] Hey, my name is Mike. -[2004.34 --> 2006.34] I'm one of the deacons here. -[2006.34 --> 2011.42] Today's special offering is for World Renew Canada Foods Grain Bank. -[2011.42 --> 2017.84] At the moment, 28 million people around the world are struggling with hunger. -[2017.84 --> 2022.18] World Renew, with its supporters and partners, are responding. -[2022.18 --> 2023.54] Here is a short video. -[2023.54 --> 2024.42] Please give generously. -[2024.42 --> 2054.42] -[2054.42 --> 2084.42] -[2084.42 --> 2114.42] -[2114.42 --> 2118.84] Just how much more God can do than they could have ever imagined. -[2118.84 --> 2123.42] By working together with their community, they are envisioning new ways to thrive. -[2123.42 --> 2124.42] And we'll see you next time. -[2124.42 --> 2125.42] Thank you. -[2125.42 --> 2126.42] And we'll see you next time. -[2126.42 --> 2127.42] Thank you. -[2127.42 --> 2156.18] Take my life and let it be. -[2156.18 --> 2157.18] Take my hand. -[2157.18 --> 2163.18] Let them flow in endless praise. -[2163.18 --> 2170.18] Let them flow in endless praise. -[2170.18 --> 2177.18] Let them flow in endless praise. -[2177.18 --> 2192.18] Take my hands and let them move at the impulse of thy love. -[2192.18 --> 2199.18] Take my feet and let them be. -[2199.18 --> 2200.18] Take my hand. -[2200.18 --> 2201.18] Let them flow in endless praise. -[2201.18 --> 2202.18] Take my hand. -[2202.18 --> 2203.18] Let them flow in endless praise. -[2203.18 --> 2204.18] Let them flow in endless praise. -[2204.18 --> 2205.18] Let them flow in endless praise. -[2205.18 --> 2207.18] Let them flow in endless praise. -[2207.18 --> 2209.18] Let them flow in endless praise. -[2209.18 --> 2217.16] Take my silver and my gold -[2217.16 --> 2221.78] Not a might would I withhold -[2221.78 --> 2227.90] Take my intellect and use -[2227.90 --> 2233.20] Every power as thou shalt choose -[2233.20 --> 2238.80] Every power as thou shalt choose -[2238.80 --> 2247.76] Take my will and make it thine -[2247.76 --> 2252.92] It shall be no longer mine -[2252.92 --> 2258.28] Take my heart, it is thy door -[2258.28 --> 2263.28] It shall be thy royal throne -[2263.28 --> 2268.48] It shall be thy royal throne -[2268.48 --> 2277.44] Take my love, my Lord, I pour -[2277.44 --> 2283.34] At thy feet is treasure store -[2283.34 --> 2288.44] Take myself and I will be -[2288.44 --> 2293.40] Ever only all for thee -[2293.40 --> 2299.40] Ever only all for thee -[2299.40 --> 2323.24] I'd like to invite any kids here from age three up to grade four to come join us at the front -[2323.24 --> 2327.56] Before we head off to continue worshipping and children's worship time -[2327.56 --> 2342.64] So today we are going to be talking about a really big word which is perseverance -[2342.64 --> 2348.04] Does anybody know what perseverance means already? -[2348.22 --> 2349.30] Any of our kids here? -[2349.38 --> 2350.76] Oh, maybe some of our older ones -[2350.76 --> 2358.88] She said it means if you don't give up -[2358.88 --> 2361.06] That is a great way to summarize it -[2361.06 --> 2364.98] So perseverance is when something is hard and you keep trying and you don't give up -[2364.98 --> 2368.60] So I'm going to tell you a little story about perseverance -[2368.60 --> 2373.84] It was, I think it was last summer we decided to go on a hike with our family -[2373.84 --> 2376.14] Has anyone ever been on a hike with their family? -[2376.34 --> 2377.52] Yeah? Oh great, lots of you -[2377.52 --> 2381.70] So we decided to go on a hike that was mostly uphill -[2381.70 --> 2386.90] And it took about maybe an hour and a half to get all the way up to the top -[2386.90 --> 2388.98] And it was like this the whole time -[2388.98 --> 2392.58] And you can imagine that that might have been a little bit hard -[2392.58 --> 2395.16] And some of my kids asked a lot of questions -[2395.16 --> 2397.62] Actually they mostly asked one question -[2397.62 --> 2401.18] How much farther until we're at the top? -[2401.26 --> 2403.20] Or how much longer is it? -[2403.46 --> 2404.92] Or maybe there was two questions -[2404.92 --> 2407.04] Can we turn around and go back to the car? -[2408.32 --> 2409.96] It was a long way up -[2409.96 --> 2412.46] And they had to work really hard and keep going -[2412.46 --> 2415.04] And we had to encourage them and hold their hands -[2415.04 --> 2416.68] And climb over big routes -[2416.68 --> 2418.82] But eventually we made it to the top -[2418.82 --> 2420.60] And we got to see a beautiful lake -[2420.60 --> 2422.34] And a beautiful view -[2422.34 --> 2425.90] So they did a great job of persevering there -[2425.90 --> 2428.82] We're going to talk today though -[2428.82 --> 2430.72] In the Bible about a man, David -[2430.72 --> 2433.12] We've been talking about David and how he persevered -[2433.12 --> 2435.88] And I'd like to hear maybe some stories from you -[2435.88 --> 2437.32] About something you've done that's hard -[2437.32 --> 2438.32] And you didn't have to get up -[2438.32 --> 2439.94] So before we do that -[2439.94 --> 2441.10] We're going to stand up -[2441.10 --> 2443.78] And we're going to bless the rest of our church family -[2443.78 --> 2446.28] And receive their blessing in return -[2446.28 --> 2449.78] So we're going to put our hands up -[2449.78 --> 2458.50] Thank you -[2468.32 --> 2488.70] Good morning, my name's Sam -[2488.70 --> 2490.40] And I'm a member here at Emmanuel -[2490.40 --> 2493.24] And it's my privilege to lead you in our family prayer -[2493.24 --> 2496.28] Just wanted to remind you that next Sunday -[2496.28 --> 2498.96] We are going to be participating in the Lord's Supper -[2498.96 --> 2501.84] So we ask that you would consider that -[2501.84 --> 2503.70] As you go through this coming week -[2503.70 --> 2506.02] Please pray with me -[2506.02 --> 2508.36] Eternal God -[2508.36 --> 2510.04] Creator of all -[2510.04 --> 2512.36] You are indeed the King of glory -[2512.36 --> 2514.66] And we humbly come before you today -[2514.66 --> 2517.16] Recognizing your amazing love -[2517.16 --> 2519.24] For people in this broken world -[2519.24 --> 2520.24] That we live in -[2520.24 --> 2522.66] The psalmist reminds us -[2522.66 --> 2525.28] That when we lift our eyes to the mountains -[2525.28 --> 2527.28] Where does our help come from? -[2527.90 --> 2529.40] Our help comes from the Lord -[2529.40 --> 2530.90] Maker of heaven and earth -[2530.90 --> 2533.40] You will not let our foot slip -[2533.40 --> 2535.00] You watch over us -[2535.00 --> 2536.76] You do not slumber -[2536.76 --> 2538.70] Indeed you watch over Israel -[2538.70 --> 2540.74] That will not slumber nor sleep -[2540.74 --> 2543.18] You, O Lord, will keep us from all harm -[2543.18 --> 2545.12] Watch over our life -[2545.12 --> 2548.98] You, Lord, will watch over our coming and going -[2548.98 --> 2551.48] Both now and forevermore -[2551.48 --> 2554.46] We stand amazed at your grace -[2554.46 --> 2556.68] Which saved a wretch like me -[2556.68 --> 2558.30] Once we were lost -[2558.30 --> 2559.64] But now we have found -[2559.64 --> 2560.54] Was blind -[2560.54 --> 2561.54] But now we see -[2561.54 --> 2564.80] Through many dangers, toils, and snares -[2564.80 --> 2566.24] I have already come -[2566.24 --> 2569.26] This grace has brought me safe thus far -[2569.26 --> 2571.22] And grace will lead me home -[2571.22 --> 2573.40] You are faithful -[2573.40 --> 2575.06] And you know each of us -[2575.06 --> 2577.16] Better than we know ourselves -[2577.16 --> 2579.32] We believe in you, Lord -[2579.32 --> 2581.70] Help us in our unbelief -[2581.70 --> 2585.34] We recognize our world is in turmoil -[2585.34 --> 2588.34] We see the devastation in Turkey and Syria -[2588.34 --> 2590.86] We pray for goodness and comfort -[2590.86 --> 2591.96] To those in despair -[2591.96 --> 2594.72] We see the war in Ukraine -[2594.72 --> 2596.82] Bring your peace, we pray -[2596.82 --> 2599.02] For the many who suffer injustice -[2599.02 --> 2601.54] Give them goodness and peace -[2601.54 --> 2604.24] We pray for those in our community -[2604.24 --> 2605.98] That mourn the loss of loved ones -[2605.98 --> 2608.22] We pray for the Harris family -[2608.22 --> 2611.34] For Leanne as she makes her way back home today -[2611.34 --> 2614.70] The Birken Passes and the Chepkama families -[2614.70 --> 2617.84] Allow them to experience comfort and peace -[2617.84 --> 2619.64] During this very difficult time -[2619.64 --> 2622.66] We think of others who are mourning loss -[2622.66 --> 2625.22] Some recently, some not so recent -[2625.22 --> 2628.28] We also lift up Sai and greet a viscera -[2628.28 --> 2631.14] As Sai begins the treatment for cancer this week -[2631.14 --> 2633.14] Also for Amy Kron -[2633.14 --> 2635.84] Who is dealing with this very tough disease -[2635.84 --> 2637.64] Grant them your peace -[2637.64 --> 2640.22] May your healing hand touch them -[2640.22 --> 2642.90] And their bodies in such a powerful way -[2642.90 --> 2644.80] And grant them the peace -[2644.80 --> 2646.42] That transcends all understanding -[2646.42 --> 2649.44] We pray for all the young people and leaders -[2649.44 --> 2651.16] That are preparing for the trip to Mexico -[2651.16 --> 2654.00] We thank you for a good evening last night -[2654.00 --> 2656.74] And we pray that your grace and gifts -[2656.74 --> 2659.18] May be evident as they minister in your name -[2659.18 --> 2662.38] May each one receive power and wisdom -[2662.38 --> 2664.64] Whatever may cross their path -[2664.64 --> 2665.98] As they go there -[2665.98 --> 2669.06] We ask that you would prepare our heart -[2669.06 --> 2670.46] For Lord's Supper next week -[2670.46 --> 2672.82] May we examine ourselves -[2672.82 --> 2675.66] And if we need to ask our forgiveness -[2675.66 --> 2678.44] May we do that with your grace -[2678.44 --> 2681.24] We pray for our classes -[2681.24 --> 2682.44] B.C. Southeast -[2682.44 --> 2685.14] As they meet this week here in this church -[2685.14 --> 2687.38] Grant wisdom to the delegates -[2687.38 --> 2690.40] As they discuss the many areas of ministry -[2690.40 --> 2691.68] In our classes -[2691.68 --> 2694.18] Bless Pastor Chris -[2694.18 --> 2696.08] As he leads us in the preaching of your word -[2696.08 --> 2697.44] Found in Romans -[2697.44 --> 2699.64] May our hearts be receptive -[2699.64 --> 2700.78] And our minds renewed -[2700.78 --> 2703.32] As we consider how faith can encourage -[2703.32 --> 2704.40] Our walk with you -[2704.40 --> 2706.54] We know that on our own -[2706.54 --> 2708.48] We are unable to justify ourselves -[2708.48 --> 2711.14] But rely totally on you -[2711.14 --> 2714.30] This hymn expresses that so beautifully -[2714.30 --> 2715.70] And clearly says -[2715.70 --> 2717.94] Not what my hands have done -[2717.94 --> 2719.36] Can save my guilty soul -[2719.36 --> 2721.98] Not what my failing flesh has borne -[2721.98 --> 2723.32] Can make my spirit whole -[2723.32 --> 2725.36] Not what I say or do -[2725.36 --> 2726.92] Can give me peace with God -[2726.92 --> 2729.82] Not all my prayers and sighs and tears -[2729.82 --> 2731.64] Can bear my awful load -[2731.64 --> 2734.30] I bless the Christ of God -[2734.30 --> 2736.02] I rest on love divine -[2736.02 --> 2738.52] And with unfaltering lip and heart -[2738.52 --> 2740.16] I call this Savior mine -[2740.16 --> 2743.68] Tis he who saveth me -[2743.68 --> 2745.04] And freely pardon gives -[2745.04 --> 2748.60] I love because he loves -[2748.60 --> 2751.46] I live because he lives -[2751.46 --> 2753.80] We pray all these things -[2753.80 --> 2755.26] In the name of our Lord and Savior -[2755.26 --> 2756.16] Jesus Christ -[2756.16 --> 2756.92] Amen -[2761.64 --> 2787.52] We're going to start by reading together -[2787.52 --> 2793.22] The first 17 verses of Romans 4 -[2793.22 --> 2795.82] And so if you have a Bible -[2795.82 --> 2797.04] I encourage you to open that up -[2797.04 --> 2798.76] If you use a device -[2798.76 --> 2799.80] Get that out -[2799.80 --> 2800.98] And get that ready -[2800.98 --> 2802.84] It will be on the screen -[2802.84 --> 2805.16] But after it leaves the screen -[2805.16 --> 2806.26] We're going to stay there -[2806.26 --> 2810.08] And near the end of our time together -[2810.08 --> 2811.56] We're actually going to look at -[2811.56 --> 2813.48] Verse 18 to the end -[2813.48 --> 2815.72] And so I encourage you to have that -[2815.72 --> 2817.98] In front of you as we go there -[2817.98 --> 2821.10] So I'm going to read Romans 4 -[2821.10 --> 2823.10] The first 17 verses -[2823.10 --> 2829.00] What then shall we say -[2829.00 --> 2831.44] That Abraham, our forefather -[2831.44 --> 2832.66] According to the flesh -[2832.66 --> 2834.42] Discovered in this matter -[2834.42 --> 2838.72] If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works -[2838.72 --> 2840.70] He had something to boast about -[2840.70 --> 2842.66] But not before God -[2842.66 --> 2844.62] What does Scripture say? -[2844.62 --> 2846.14] Abraham believed -[2846.14 --> 2848.02] And it was credited to him -[2848.02 --> 2849.14] As righteousness -[2849.14 --> 2852.78] Now, to the one who works -[2852.78 --> 2855.52] Wages are not credited as a gift -[2855.52 --> 2856.68] But as an obligation -[2856.68 --> 2859.86] However, to the one who does not work -[2859.86 --> 2861.00] But trusts God -[2861.00 --> 2862.70] Who justifies the ungodly -[2862.70 --> 2865.84] Their faith is credited as righteousness -[2865.84 --> 2869.04] David says the same thing -[2869.04 --> 2871.44] When he speaks of the blessedness -[2871.44 --> 2873.28] Of the one to whom God credits -[2873.28 --> 2875.22] Righteousness apart from works -[2875.22 --> 2877.38] Blessed are those -[2877.38 --> 2879.46] Whose transgressions are forgiven -[2879.46 --> 2881.08] Whose sins are covered -[2881.08 --> 2883.24] Blessed is the one -[2883.24 --> 2884.62] Whose sin the Lord -[2884.62 --> 2887.10] Will never count against them -[2887.10 --> 2890.40] Is this blessedness -[2890.40 --> 2892.28] Only for the circumcised -[2892.28 --> 2894.34] Or also for the uncircumcised? -[2895.38 --> 2897.02] We have been saying -[2897.02 --> 2898.06] That Abraham's faith -[2898.06 --> 2899.34] Was credited to him -[2899.34 --> 2900.66] As righteousness -[2900.66 --> 2903.16] Under what circumstances -[2903.16 --> 2904.02] Was it credited? -[2904.86 --> 2906.66] Was it after he was circumcised -[2906.66 --> 2907.24] Or before? -[2907.60 --> 2908.68] It was not after -[2908.68 --> 2909.42] But before -[2909.42 --> 2910.80] And he received circumcision -[2910.80 --> 2911.62] As a sign -[2911.62 --> 2913.46] A seal of the righteousness -[2913.46 --> 2914.88] That he had by faith -[2914.88 --> 2917.16] While he was still uncircumcised -[2917.16 --> 2918.92] So then -[2918.92 --> 2920.38] He is the father -[2920.38 --> 2921.68] Of all who believe -[2921.68 --> 2923.68] But have not been circumcised -[2923.68 --> 2924.92] In order that righteousness -[2924.92 --> 2926.70] Might be credited to them -[2926.70 --> 2929.22] And he is then -[2929.22 --> 2930.20] Also the father -[2930.20 --> 2931.34] Of the circumcised -[2931.34 --> 2932.90] Who not only are circumcised -[2932.90 --> 2933.84] But who also follow -[2933.84 --> 2934.70] In the footsteps -[2934.70 --> 2935.58] Of the faith -[2935.58 --> 2936.94] That our father Abraham -[2936.94 --> 2938.00] Had before -[2938.00 --> 2939.44] He was circumcised -[2939.44 --> 2942.40] It was not through the law -[2942.40 --> 2943.92] That Abraham and his offspring -[2943.92 --> 2945.28] Received promise -[2945.28 --> 2946.76] That he would be heir -[2946.76 --> 2947.64] Of the world -[2947.64 --> 2949.10] But through the righteousness -[2949.10 --> 2951.18] That comes by faith -[2951.18 --> 2953.62] For if those who depend -[2953.62 --> 2954.86] On the law are heirs -[2954.86 --> 2956.42] Faith means nothing -[2956.42 --> 2957.88] And the promise is worthless -[2957.88 --> 2960.32] Because the law brings wrath -[2960.32 --> 2962.18] And where there is no law -[2962.18 --> 2963.50] There is no transgression -[2963.50 --> 2965.18] Therefore -[2965.18 --> 2968.28] The promise comes by faith -[2968.28 --> 2970.12] So that it may be by grace -[2970.12 --> 2971.34] And may be guaranteed -[2971.34 --> 2974.08] To all Abraham's offspring -[2974.08 --> 2976.12] Not only to those -[2976.12 --> 2977.02] Who are of the law -[2977.02 --> 2978.04] But also to those -[2978.04 --> 2979.02] Who have the faith -[2979.02 --> 2980.04] Of Abraham -[2980.04 --> 2982.90] He is the father of us all -[2982.90 --> 2984.88] As it is written -[2984.88 --> 2986.76] I have made you a father -[2986.76 --> 2987.74] Of many nations -[2987.74 --> 2989.94] He is our father -[2989.94 --> 2991.00] In the sight of God -[2991.00 --> 2992.30] In whom he believed -[2992.30 --> 2994.20] The God who gives life -[2994.20 --> 2994.82] To the dead -[2994.82 --> 2996.66] And calls into being -[2996.66 --> 2999.00] Things that were not -[2999.00 --> 3001.38] This is the word of the Lord -[3001.38 --> 3009.16] So at the very beginning -[3009.16 --> 3011.66] I want to acknowledge -[3011.66 --> 3015.56] That one of the reasons -[3015.56 --> 3018.20] Why you might not have heard -[3018.20 --> 3020.14] A lot of preaching series -[3020.14 --> 3021.40] In the book of Romans -[3021.40 --> 3022.94] Is because Romans can be -[3022.94 --> 3024.30] A hard book -[3024.30 --> 3025.24] And it can be dense -[3025.24 --> 3026.84] And it can be full of stuff -[3026.84 --> 3028.60] And that this chapter -[3028.60 --> 3030.18] And trying to follow -[3030.18 --> 3032.14] Paul's line of thoughts -[3032.14 --> 3032.68] Throughout -[3032.68 --> 3034.56] Is one of those chapters -[3034.56 --> 3035.08] Where you're like -[3035.08 --> 3035.38] Yeah -[3035.38 --> 3036.70] That's why -[3036.70 --> 3038.30] We haven't heard this one a lot -[3038.30 --> 3038.84] That's why -[3038.84 --> 3040.14] When I do it in my devotions -[3040.14 --> 3041.36] I read like six verses -[3041.36 --> 3041.90] And I'm like -[3041.90 --> 3042.88] I don't know what he's saying -[3042.88 --> 3043.96] So I stop reading -[3043.96 --> 3046.84] I want to acknowledge -[3046.84 --> 3046.98] I want to acknowledge -[3046.98 --> 3050.16] That I'm maybe asking -[3050.16 --> 3052.48] A fair bit of your capacities -[3052.48 --> 3054.12] For Sunday morning -[3054.12 --> 3055.18] So I hope you had your coffee -[3055.18 --> 3056.08] Or your tea -[3056.08 --> 3057.88] Or whatever it is that you need -[3057.88 --> 3058.74] A good night's sleep -[3058.74 --> 3061.84] And we can dig in together -[3061.84 --> 3063.12] This morning -[3063.12 --> 3065.18] So morning -[3065.18 --> 3065.86] I want to ask -[3065.86 --> 3067.04] The question with you -[3067.04 --> 3068.20] And hopefully -[3068.20 --> 3070.98] Help us see well -[3070.98 --> 3073.12] The answer to the question -[3073.12 --> 3076.64] What is faith? -[3078.10 --> 3079.14] I think this question -[3079.14 --> 3080.44] Is really important -[3080.44 --> 3081.94] And it really matters -[3081.94 --> 3083.08] For us -[3083.08 --> 3084.56] For a number of reasons -[3084.56 --> 3085.84] We will see some of them -[3085.84 --> 3087.08] But also because -[3087.08 --> 3088.92] It's kind of confusing -[3088.92 --> 3089.54] Right -[3089.54 --> 3090.66] Even as a word -[3090.66 --> 3091.28] Today -[3091.28 --> 3092.66] What is faith -[3092.66 --> 3093.56] Has sorts of -[3093.56 --> 3094.82] Different meanings -[3094.82 --> 3095.24] Right -[3095.24 --> 3096.32] And in different contexts -[3096.32 --> 3097.92] It means different things -[3097.92 --> 3099.54] Sometimes we use -[3099.54 --> 3100.62] The word faith -[3100.62 --> 3102.50] To refer to -[3102.50 --> 3104.36] Various religious -[3104.36 --> 3105.96] Ideas -[3105.96 --> 3107.82] Or groups of ideas -[3107.82 --> 3108.68] Right -[3108.68 --> 3109.28] And the Bible -[3109.28 --> 3110.38] Actually uses the word -[3110.38 --> 3111.36] Faith like this too -[3111.36 --> 3112.40] When it talks about -[3112.40 --> 3113.28] The faith -[3113.28 --> 3114.36] Right -[3114.36 --> 3115.06] So for instance -[3115.06 --> 3115.88] In Jude -[3115.88 --> 3117.18] You can read -[3117.18 --> 3118.34] I urge you -[3118.34 --> 3119.58] To contend for -[3119.58 --> 3120.56] The faith -[3120.56 --> 3121.90] Once for all -[3121.90 --> 3123.24] Entrusted to God's -[3123.24 --> 3124.18] Holy people -[3124.18 --> 3126.10] What he means there -[3126.10 --> 3128.10] Is the set of beliefs -[3128.10 --> 3130.12] The system of doctrine -[3130.12 --> 3131.84] The truths of what it means -[3131.84 --> 3133.06] To be Christian -[3133.06 --> 3134.02] And who God is -[3134.02 --> 3135.18] And what Jesus has accomplished -[3135.18 --> 3136.56] And where the world -[3136.56 --> 3137.16] Is going -[3137.16 --> 3138.52] In light of all of that -[3138.52 --> 3138.72] Right -[3138.72 --> 3139.82] The faith -[3139.82 --> 3141.56] Refers to that big system -[3141.56 --> 3142.64] And set -[3142.64 --> 3145.02] Now in Jude -[3145.02 --> 3146.08] The faith -[3146.08 --> 3147.52] Refers to -[3147.52 --> 3148.54] What we would call -[3148.54 --> 3149.78] The Christian religion -[3149.78 --> 3151.20] But in our world -[3151.20 --> 3152.08] Sometimes we use -[3152.08 --> 3152.84] The word faith -[3152.84 --> 3154.02] Or faiths -[3154.02 --> 3155.32] To refer to -[3155.32 --> 3156.82] Other religions -[3156.82 --> 3157.46] As well -[3157.46 --> 3159.66] The Bible never does that -[3159.66 --> 3160.60] The Bible never refers -[3160.60 --> 3162.36] To other religious ideas -[3162.36 --> 3164.04] As a faith of a kind -[3164.04 --> 3165.32] It only ever calls them -[3165.32 --> 3166.16] Idolatries -[3166.16 --> 3167.44] Or adulteries -[3167.44 --> 3169.10] But in our world -[3169.10 --> 3170.22] That's one way -[3170.22 --> 3170.90] We use faith -[3170.90 --> 3173.04] Another way -[3173.04 --> 3174.00] That we use faith -[3174.00 --> 3175.14] Or talk about faith -[3175.14 --> 3176.12] In the world today -[3176.12 --> 3177.60] Is this idea -[3177.60 --> 3178.88] That if -[3178.88 --> 3180.20] I believe -[3180.20 --> 3181.48] Really hard -[3181.48 --> 3182.94] With the right -[3182.94 --> 3183.92] Measure of -[3183.92 --> 3184.76] Intensity -[3184.76 --> 3187.22] I will be able to -[3187.22 --> 3188.08] In a sense -[3188.08 --> 3189.52] Wrestle gifts -[3189.52 --> 3190.42] From God -[3190.42 --> 3192.76] Right -[3192.76 --> 3192.96] And -[3192.96 --> 3194.56] Some of you -[3194.56 --> 3195.44] Might have heard -[3195.44 --> 3196.62] Or might have thought -[3196.62 --> 3197.36] Right -[3197.36 --> 3199.40] If I have enough faith -[3199.40 --> 3201.78] God will give me that job -[3201.78 --> 3204.58] If I have enough faith -[3204.58 --> 3206.22] God will heal my mom -[3206.22 --> 3207.38] Of her cancer -[3207.38 --> 3209.30] In fact -[3209.30 --> 3211.32] I have heard -[3211.32 --> 3212.42] What I could only pray -[3212.42 --> 3213.04] And trust -[3213.04 --> 3214.36] Are well-meaning Christians -[3214.36 --> 3215.70] Say to people -[3215.70 --> 3216.12] Who are -[3216.12 --> 3217.02] Mourning -[3217.02 --> 3217.98] A diagnosis -[3217.98 --> 3220.00] Of a terminal illness -[3220.00 --> 3221.66] If you have enough faith -[3221.66 --> 3222.74] God will heal you -[3222.74 --> 3225.90] That's awful -[3225.90 --> 3226.90] Language -[3226.90 --> 3227.96] To use -[3227.96 --> 3228.76] It borders on -[3228.76 --> 3229.70] Spiritually abusive -[3229.70 --> 3230.12] Really -[3230.12 --> 3231.74] But that's one of the ways -[3231.74 --> 3233.12] That we talk about faith -[3233.12 --> 3233.56] Right -[3233.56 --> 3234.64] That if we have enough of it -[3234.64 --> 3236.10] If we believe hard enough -[3236.10 --> 3237.58] God will give us what we want -[3237.58 --> 3239.84] Or give us what we think we need -[3239.84 --> 3242.30] Another way -[3242.30 --> 3243.38] That we talk about faith -[3243.38 --> 3244.86] In the world -[3244.86 --> 3246.66] Refers to -[3246.66 --> 3247.70] Faith -[3247.70 --> 3249.28] Kind of as a -[3249.28 --> 3250.40] A mere -[3250.40 --> 3251.18] Religious -[3251.18 --> 3252.16] Preference -[3252.16 --> 3253.86] And in some sense -[3253.86 --> 3255.34] I'm making a contrast here -[3255.34 --> 3256.84] Between what some people -[3256.84 --> 3258.08] Might call a fact -[3258.08 --> 3259.82] And what some people -[3259.82 --> 3261.22] Might call faith -[3261.22 --> 3261.70] Right -[3261.70 --> 3263.16] And so in the category of facts -[3263.16 --> 3264.76] You have things like gravity -[3264.76 --> 3265.38] Right -[3265.38 --> 3266.56] Gravity exists -[3266.56 --> 3267.86] It moves at -[3267.86 --> 3269.42] Ken you can help me with this -[3269.42 --> 3271.58] Negative 9.8 meters per second squared -[3271.58 --> 3274.12] Oh Glenn said yes -[3274.12 --> 3274.94] Ken you were too slow -[3274.94 --> 3276.02] Right -[3276.02 --> 3278.98] Gravity is a fixed law -[3278.98 --> 3279.48] Right -[3279.48 --> 3280.62] That is a fact -[3280.62 --> 3282.42] And then in this other category -[3282.42 --> 3283.54] Of things -[3283.54 --> 3283.92] Right -[3283.92 --> 3285.06] Like between choosing -[3285.06 --> 3286.30] Between one faith -[3286.30 --> 3287.64] Or one religious system -[3287.64 --> 3288.64] Or another -[3288.64 --> 3289.44] Right -[3289.44 --> 3290.68] We have faith -[3290.68 --> 3291.84] And so there's this contrast -[3291.84 --> 3293.26] That exists between facts -[3293.26 --> 3294.84] And faith -[3294.84 --> 3295.98] Between sometimes -[3295.98 --> 3296.80] It's put knowledge -[3296.80 --> 3298.36] And belief -[3298.36 --> 3298.86] Right -[3298.86 --> 3299.54] And that's one of the ways -[3299.54 --> 3301.06] That we use faith -[3301.06 --> 3302.14] And in that way -[3302.14 --> 3303.66] Faith -[3303.66 --> 3304.54] Religious faith -[3304.54 --> 3305.14] Becomes -[3305.14 --> 3306.38] In some sense -[3306.38 --> 3307.64] A leap -[3307.64 --> 3309.02] Beyond -[3309.02 --> 3310.02] Reason -[3310.02 --> 3312.02] A leap -[3312.02 --> 3312.76] Beyond -[3312.76 --> 3313.60] What is -[3313.60 --> 3314.50] Rational -[3314.50 --> 3316.74] Right -[3316.74 --> 3317.66] Those are some of the ways -[3317.66 --> 3318.62] That we use the word faith -[3318.62 --> 3319.16] And that's to say -[3319.16 --> 3320.12] Nothing of how we use it -[3320.12 --> 3321.36] Sort of in common parlance -[3321.36 --> 3321.60] Right -[3321.60 --> 3322.46] About participating -[3322.46 --> 3323.92] In a conversation -[3323.92 --> 3325.06] In good faith -[3325.06 --> 3326.36] Right -[3326.36 --> 3326.78] So that means -[3326.78 --> 3328.18] With the hoped for -[3328.18 --> 3328.68] Something -[3328.68 --> 3329.40] And outcome -[3329.40 --> 3333.02] Are any of those -[3333.02 --> 3334.84] What the Bible means -[3334.84 --> 3336.20] When it talks about -[3336.20 --> 3337.08] Faith -[3337.08 --> 3338.72] And if not -[3338.72 --> 3340.20] What does the Bible mean -[3340.20 --> 3341.38] When we ask the question -[3341.38 --> 3343.04] What is faith -[3343.04 --> 3346.90] Christian faith -[3346.90 --> 3348.94] Always -[3348.94 --> 3350.96] Has an object -[3350.96 --> 3352.28] Kevin made this point -[3352.28 --> 3353.36] Beautifully last week -[3353.36 --> 3354.20] If you weren't here -[3354.20 --> 3355.72] I encourage you to go online -[3355.72 --> 3356.62] And check that out -[3356.62 --> 3358.18] It's one of his -[3358.18 --> 3359.54] Top five sermons -[3359.54 --> 3363.22] I'll say that every time -[3363.22 --> 3363.78] From now on -[3363.78 --> 3367.96] That faith is -[3367.96 --> 3368.82] In the Bible -[3368.82 --> 3370.70] In the first place -[3370.70 --> 3372.88] Not about your intensity -[3372.88 --> 3374.02] Of feeling -[3374.02 --> 3376.26] But about the object -[3376.26 --> 3377.78] It rests upon -[3377.78 --> 3378.40] Right -[3378.40 --> 3380.02] Faith is only valid -[3380.02 --> 3380.96] In so far -[3380.96 --> 3382.04] As the object -[3382.04 --> 3382.98] Of your faith -[3382.98 --> 3383.56] Is valid -[3383.56 --> 3385.64] Let me give you an example -[3385.64 --> 3388.32] I might have -[3388.32 --> 3389.88] The strongest faith -[3389.88 --> 3390.80] Right -[3390.80 --> 3392.96] A super intense faith -[3392.96 --> 3394.40] That I have -[3394.40 --> 3395.96] The best hair -[3395.96 --> 3397.28] In this church -[3397.28 --> 3398.68] In fact -[3398.68 --> 3399.82] I got it trimmed yesterday -[3399.82 --> 3401.18] Just to make this point -[3401.18 --> 3402.14] Even more explicitly -[3402.14 --> 3403.26] Right -[3403.26 --> 3404.84] And I can argue with you -[3404.84 --> 3406.78] Until you're blue in the face -[3406.78 --> 3408.56] That my hair is the best -[3408.56 --> 3412.80] But then you're going to look at -[3412.80 --> 3413.70] Levi Huberts -[3413.70 --> 3413.94] And go -[3413.94 --> 3414.24] No -[3414.24 --> 3416.50] His is the best -[3416.50 --> 3418.70] Right -[3418.70 --> 3419.56] My intensity -[3419.56 --> 3420.68] Doesn't matter -[3420.68 --> 3421.88] Right -[3421.88 --> 3422.66] My passion -[3422.66 --> 3423.48] For how true -[3423.48 --> 3424.24] It might be -[3424.24 --> 3425.66] Doesn't make up -[3425.66 --> 3426.84] For the truth -[3426.84 --> 3429.12] Of my receding hairline -[3429.12 --> 3430.56] And my thinning widow's peak -[3430.56 --> 3432.70] I'm just going to own it -[3432.70 --> 3434.88] Right -[3434.88 --> 3436.46] It's a demonstrable fact -[3436.46 --> 3438.06] That Levi's -[3438.06 --> 3439.64] Unruly mop of hair -[3439.64 --> 3441.00] Is much cooler than mine -[3441.00 --> 3442.90] If you don't know -[3442.90 --> 3443.74] Who I'm talking about -[3443.74 --> 3444.78] You'll see him afterwards -[3444.78 --> 3446.50] Everyone will be touching his head -[3446.50 --> 3448.74] Don't actually do that -[3448.74 --> 3453.24] And let me just say -[3453.24 --> 3453.90] For now -[3453.90 --> 3454.24] Okay -[3454.24 --> 3455.82] Look at your dad's hairline -[3455.82 --> 3456.64] For now -[3456.64 --> 3463.02] The Christian faith -[3463.02 --> 3463.90] Right -[3463.90 --> 3465.22] The Christian faith -[3465.22 --> 3467.40] Has as its object -[3467.40 --> 3470.20] The person of Jesus Christ -[3470.20 --> 3473.02] And the promise of the gospel -[3473.02 --> 3475.04] The Christian faith -[3475.04 --> 3476.24] Is focused upon -[3476.24 --> 3477.22] The truth -[3477.22 --> 3479.22] That in history -[3479.22 --> 3481.34] Really and actually -[3481.34 --> 3483.18] God took on flesh -[3483.18 --> 3484.48] And made his dwelling -[3484.48 --> 3485.52] Among us -[3485.52 --> 3486.34] That Jesus -[3486.34 --> 3487.38] Was really -[3487.38 --> 3488.58] And actually -[3488.58 --> 3490.52] Born of a virgin -[3490.52 --> 3492.10] According to the scriptures -[3492.10 --> 3493.28] That he really -[3493.28 --> 3494.44] And actually -[3494.44 --> 3495.92] Lived a life -[3495.92 --> 3497.26] Of perfect righteousness -[3497.26 --> 3498.18] And submission -[3498.18 --> 3499.84] To God the Father -[3499.84 --> 3500.40] Again -[3500.40 --> 3502.30] According to the scriptures -[3502.30 --> 3502.68] Right -[3502.68 --> 3504.06] That is doing exactly -[3504.06 --> 3504.98] What God promised -[3504.98 --> 3505.78] He would do -[3505.78 --> 3507.36] From the book of Genesis -[3507.36 --> 3508.12] All the way through -[3508.12 --> 3508.94] To Malachi -[3508.94 --> 3509.76] In anticipation -[3509.76 --> 3511.94] Of this coming savior -[3511.94 --> 3513.32] That Jesus Christ -[3513.32 --> 3514.66] Really and actually -[3514.66 --> 3515.56] Died the death -[3515.56 --> 3516.66] That we all deserve -[3516.66 --> 3517.82] As the wrath of God -[3517.82 --> 3518.90] For human sin -[3518.90 --> 3519.34] Right -[3519.34 --> 3520.06] This is the journey -[3520.06 --> 3520.94] That we have been on -[3520.94 --> 3521.84] In the book of Romans -[3521.84 --> 3523.88] By his wounds -[3523.88 --> 3525.46] We are healed -[3525.46 --> 3526.12] The punishment -[3526.12 --> 3527.32] That brought us peace -[3527.32 --> 3528.96] Was on his shoulders -[3528.96 --> 3531.80] And that three days later -[3531.80 --> 3533.08] Really and actually -[3533.08 --> 3534.62] God raised him -[3534.62 --> 3535.48] From the dead -[3535.48 --> 3537.40] Victorious over sin -[3537.40 --> 3538.24] And death -[3538.24 --> 3539.98] Let me be clear -[3539.98 --> 3541.00] That this last part -[3541.00 --> 3542.70] Really matters for us -[3542.70 --> 3542.90] Right -[3542.90 --> 3543.78] Paul says -[3543.78 --> 3546.42] In 1 Corinthians 15 -[3546.42 --> 3547.58] That if Jesus -[3547.58 --> 3548.82] Has not been raised -[3548.82 --> 3550.10] We Christians -[3550.10 --> 3551.40] Are most of all -[3551.40 --> 3552.08] To be pitied -[3552.08 --> 3553.36] Because we are -[3553.36 --> 3554.40] Believing a lie -[3554.40 --> 3555.30] And if Jesus -[3555.30 --> 3556.26] Hasn't been raised -[3556.26 --> 3557.26] There's still -[3557.26 --> 3558.54] We are still -[3558.54 --> 3560.12] Stuck in our sin -[3560.12 --> 3561.96] The resurrection -[3561.96 --> 3562.58] Of Jesus -[3562.58 --> 3564.02] Is the hinge -[3564.02 --> 3564.42] On -[3564.42 --> 3565.32] The hinge -[3565.32 --> 3566.00] Of history -[3566.00 --> 3566.58] On which -[3566.58 --> 3567.30] Everything -[3567.30 --> 3568.26] Turns -[3568.26 --> 3569.66] Now I know -[3569.66 --> 3571.68] That your calendars -[3571.68 --> 3572.12] And the way -[3572.12 --> 3572.90] That up until -[3572.90 --> 3573.50] Very recently -[3573.50 --> 3574.22] We have counted -[3574.22 --> 3574.70] Dates -[3574.70 --> 3575.60] Might indicate -[3575.60 --> 3576.22] That the first -[3576.22 --> 3576.70] Christmas -[3576.70 --> 3577.08] Right -[3577.08 --> 3577.96] The first coming -[3577.96 --> 3578.52] Of Jesus -[3578.52 --> 3580.02] The before Christ -[3580.02 --> 3581.52] To year of our Lord -[3581.52 --> 3582.60] B.C. to A.D. -[3582.72 --> 3585.02] Or before common era -[3585.02 --> 3585.78] It's a common era -[3585.78 --> 3586.60] That that might be -[3586.60 --> 3587.60] The hinge of history -[3587.60 --> 3588.66] But I believe -[3588.66 --> 3589.44] And I think the Bible -[3589.44 --> 3590.16] Affirms -[3590.16 --> 3591.36] That what changes -[3591.36 --> 3593.24] Everything for everyone -[3593.24 --> 3594.94] Is the resurrection -[3594.94 --> 3595.60] Of Jesus -[3595.60 --> 3599.60] Faith has as its object -[3599.60 --> 3600.64] The person -[3600.64 --> 3601.84] Of Jesus Christ -[3601.84 --> 3602.78] And the promise -[3602.78 --> 3604.04] Of the gospel -[3604.04 --> 3605.90] And with the resurrection -[3605.90 --> 3607.10] The promise -[3607.10 --> 3608.12] Of the gospel -[3608.12 --> 3609.30] Is a guarantee -[3609.30 --> 3611.40] For all who believe -[3611.40 --> 3613.86] And that you see -[3613.86 --> 3615.30] Is why getting faith -[3615.30 --> 3615.72] Right -[3615.72 --> 3616.56] Or understanding -[3616.56 --> 3617.38] It correctly -[3617.38 --> 3618.78] Is so important -[3618.78 --> 3619.82] For Paul -[3619.82 --> 3620.60] At this point -[3620.60 --> 3621.46] In his letter -[3621.46 --> 3622.40] To the Romans -[3622.40 --> 3623.44] And that's why -[3623.44 --> 3624.98] He uses an example -[3624.98 --> 3626.48] Here in Romans 4 -[3626.48 --> 3628.52] Of the person -[3628.52 --> 3629.04] And story -[3629.04 --> 3629.66] Of Abraham -[3629.66 --> 3631.06] And of David -[3631.06 --> 3633.04] Now we don't have time -[3633.04 --> 3633.46] This morning -[3633.46 --> 3634.08] To get into -[3634.08 --> 3636.12] All the particular details -[3636.12 --> 3636.68] But the story -[3636.68 --> 3637.06] Of Abraham -[3637.06 --> 3638.12] Is a fascinating one -[3638.12 --> 3638.80] In your Bibles -[3638.80 --> 3639.50] If you turn to -[3639.50 --> 3640.26] The first book -[3640.26 --> 3641.76] Start at Genesis 12 -[3641.76 --> 3642.98] And just keep reading -[3642.98 --> 3644.34] Until Abraham -[3644.34 --> 3645.14] Is moved on -[3645.14 --> 3645.96] But Genesis 12 -[3645.96 --> 3647.10] Especially through -[3647.10 --> 3648.34] Genesis 22 -[3648.34 --> 3650.06] Beautiful story -[3650.06 --> 3651.38] About Abraham's -[3651.38 --> 3653.24] Faith and response -[3653.24 --> 3653.96] To God's -[3653.96 --> 3655.28] Leading to him -[3655.28 --> 3656.38] And Abraham -[3656.38 --> 3658.36] Is the father -[3658.36 --> 3660.28] Of the Hebrews -[3660.28 --> 3661.58] He's the founder -[3661.58 --> 3663.34] Of the Jewish faith -[3663.34 --> 3664.66] And for those -[3664.66 --> 3665.76] In Paul's audience -[3665.76 --> 3667.20] Who connect back -[3667.20 --> 3668.62] To this faith -[3668.62 --> 3670.92] As sourcing -[3670.92 --> 3672.10] What they now believe -[3672.10 --> 3672.36] Right -[3672.36 --> 3673.22] His argument -[3673.22 --> 3674.84] About Abraham -[3674.84 --> 3676.40] Then makes it -[3676.40 --> 3676.86] Sort of -[3676.86 --> 3678.30] Comprehensively -[3678.30 --> 3679.22] Applicable -[3679.22 --> 3681.30] And likewise -[3681.30 --> 3682.44] The reference -[3682.44 --> 3683.04] To David -[3683.04 --> 3683.52] Right -[3683.52 --> 3684.38] David is the -[3684.38 --> 3684.96] Sort of -[3684.96 --> 3685.72] Prototypical -[3685.72 --> 3686.92] Or archetypical -[3686.92 --> 3687.42] King -[3687.42 --> 3688.70] In the Hebrew -[3688.70 --> 3689.44] Mindset -[3689.44 --> 3690.60] He is the standard -[3690.60 --> 3691.34] By which all -[3691.34 --> 3692.04] Other kings -[3692.04 --> 3693.04] Are judged -[3693.04 --> 3694.02] Because as the -[3694.02 --> 3694.84] Bible says -[3694.84 --> 3696.84] David is a man -[3696.84 --> 3697.58] After God's -[3697.58 --> 3698.66] Own heart -[3698.66 --> 3700.28] And so in -[3700.28 --> 3701.40] Abraham and David -[3701.40 --> 3702.22] You have both -[3702.22 --> 3703.58] The ethnic -[3703.58 --> 3704.38] Source -[3704.38 --> 3705.18] And the -[3705.18 --> 3705.96] Monarchical -[3705.96 --> 3706.86] Example -[3706.86 --> 3707.98] Of why God -[3707.98 --> 3709.24] Chose Israel -[3709.24 --> 3710.30] Or at least -[3710.30 --> 3712.46] That's the thinking -[3712.46 --> 3712.98] Of the Jews -[3712.98 --> 3713.44] Of the day -[3713.44 --> 3715.94] Now -[3715.94 --> 3717.24] Again -[3717.24 --> 3717.70] With Bibles -[3717.70 --> 3718.10] Open -[3718.10 --> 3719.46] In chapter 3 -[3719.46 --> 3720.00] So we read -[3720.00 --> 3720.60] Chapter 4 -[3720.60 --> 3721.14] So this is a -[3721.14 --> 3721.58] Couple verses -[3721.58 --> 3721.96] Before -[3721.96 --> 3722.78] Chapter 3 -[3722.78 --> 3723.70] Verse 27 -[3723.70 --> 3726.64] Paul writes -[3726.64 --> 3728.28] Where then -[3728.28 --> 3729.54] Is boasting -[3729.54 --> 3731.14] It is excluded -[3731.14 --> 3732.32] Because of the law -[3732.32 --> 3733.62] The law that requires -[3733.62 --> 3734.08] Works -[3734.08 --> 3734.88] No -[3734.88 --> 3736.26] Because of the law -[3736.26 --> 3737.00] That requires -[3737.00 --> 3738.04] Faith -[3738.04 --> 3740.40] Now in some ways -[3740.40 --> 3741.88] Chapter 4 -[3741.88 --> 3743.88] Is an example -[3743.88 --> 3745.56] To make the point -[3745.56 --> 3746.54] That Paul -[3746.54 --> 3747.18] Is making -[3747.18 --> 3748.22] In verse 27 -[3748.22 --> 3749.34] Through 31 -[3749.34 --> 3750.18] Right -[3750.18 --> 3751.04] Look at chapter 4 -[3751.04 --> 3751.54] Verse 2 -[3751.54 --> 3752.84] You heard that verse -[3752.84 --> 3753.94] Where then is boasting -[3753.94 --> 3754.76] In 27 -[3754.76 --> 3755.80] Verse 2 -[3755.80 --> 3756.12] Now -[3756.12 --> 3757.10] If in fact -[3757.10 --> 3758.32] Abraham was justified -[3758.32 --> 3759.00] By works -[3759.00 --> 3760.00] He had something -[3760.00 --> 3761.50] To boast -[3761.50 --> 3762.50] About -[3762.50 --> 3764.28] You see the tie -[3764.28 --> 3766.68] But not before God -[3766.68 --> 3767.84] Paul says -[3767.84 --> 3768.54] And then Paul then -[3768.54 --> 3769.16] Quotes from -[3769.16 --> 3770.36] Genesis 15 -[3770.36 --> 3771.44] Verse 6 -[3771.44 --> 3772.56] And then that same line -[3772.56 --> 3773.70] Is repeated in 15 -[3773.70 --> 3774.38] Verse 22 -[3774.38 --> 3774.90] Saying -[3774.90 --> 3776.92] Abraham believed God -[3776.92 --> 3778.04] And it was credited -[3778.04 --> 3778.90] To him -[3778.90 --> 3780.30] As righteousness -[3780.30 --> 3782.56] Now that line -[3782.56 --> 3785.40] Introduces for us -[3785.40 --> 3786.24] The theme -[3786.24 --> 3788.18] Of this whole example -[3788.18 --> 3789.40] And the theme -[3789.40 --> 3790.82] Of what faith -[3790.82 --> 3793.34] Is and does -[3793.34 --> 3795.30] And it's based -[3795.30 --> 3795.84] On the word -[3795.84 --> 3796.58] That's used there -[3796.58 --> 3797.62] Credited -[3797.62 --> 3800.42] That word credited -[3800.42 --> 3801.92] Is a Greek word -[3801.92 --> 3802.72] That's used -[3802.72 --> 3804.02] 11 times -[3804.02 --> 3805.02] In this chapter -[3805.02 --> 3806.90] To put that in context -[3806.90 --> 3808.24] The word is used -[3808.24 --> 3809.36] 39 times -[3809.36 --> 3810.14] In the New Testament -[3810.14 --> 3812.42] And 11 of those times -[3812.42 --> 3813.40] Are in these -[3813.40 --> 3814.76] What is it -[3814.76 --> 3815.74] 24 -[3815.74 --> 3818.00] 25 verses -[3818.00 --> 3819.30] So the vast -[3819.30 --> 3820.00] Preponderance -[3820.00 --> 3820.36] Of them -[3820.36 --> 3821.28] Is right here -[3821.28 --> 3822.16] And so it matters -[3822.16 --> 3822.76] For what Paul -[3822.76 --> 3823.72] Is trying to communicate -[3823.72 --> 3824.74] Right here -[3824.74 --> 3825.64] And right now -[3825.64 --> 3828.82] It's a word -[3828.82 --> 3829.46] That has been -[3829.46 --> 3829.96] Translated -[3829.96 --> 3830.96] In our text -[3830.96 --> 3831.60] As credited -[3831.60 --> 3833.88] Or as count -[3833.88 --> 3836.74] Count is in verse 8 -[3836.74 --> 3838.04] Whose sin the Lord -[3838.04 --> 3838.80] Will never count -[3838.80 --> 3839.50] Against them -[3839.50 --> 3840.24] Same word -[3840.24 --> 3842.68] And it's a term -[3842.68 --> 3844.12] That's actually used -[3844.12 --> 3845.36] In the accounting world -[3845.36 --> 3845.98] Right -[3845.98 --> 3847.14] In the world of finance -[3847.14 --> 3849.32] In the Greco-Roman -[3849.32 --> 3850.38] Language -[3850.38 --> 3851.56] And culture -[3851.56 --> 3852.88] And it's a term -[3852.88 --> 3853.44] That means -[3853.44 --> 3854.88] To count as -[3854.88 --> 3856.14] And so -[3856.14 --> 3857.66] To credit something -[3857.66 --> 3859.46] Is to confer -[3859.46 --> 3861.30] A status onto it -[3861.30 --> 3862.42] That was not there -[3862.42 --> 3862.82] Before -[3862.82 --> 3865.78] So when Paul -[3865.78 --> 3866.46] Talks about -[3866.46 --> 3867.94] Abraham's faith -[3867.94 --> 3868.78] Being credited -[3868.78 --> 3869.70] To him as -[3869.70 --> 3870.60] Righteousness -[3870.60 --> 3871.74] What does that mean? -[3873.18 --> 3874.16] It's not that -[3874.16 --> 3875.40] Faith results -[3875.40 --> 3876.46] In righteousness -[3876.46 --> 3878.10] Though it's true -[3878.10 --> 3879.12] That if we believe -[3879.12 --> 3879.98] That God exists -[3879.98 --> 3881.32] And that he deserves -[3881.32 --> 3882.18] Our obedience -[3882.18 --> 3883.04] And our worship -[3883.04 --> 3883.72] Then out of that -[3883.72 --> 3884.96] Will flow a certain -[3884.96 --> 3886.78] Kind of righteous living -[3886.78 --> 3889.30] But it's also not true -[3889.30 --> 3890.98] That Abraham's faith -[3890.98 --> 3892.38] Faith is somehow -[3892.38 --> 3893.58] In and of itself -[3893.58 --> 3895.10] A form of righteousness -[3895.10 --> 3895.48] Right? -[3895.54 --> 3896.36] Where then it merits -[3896.36 --> 3897.18] Or deserves -[3897.18 --> 3898.54] And earns -[3898.54 --> 3899.38] God's favor -[3899.38 --> 3900.24] And blessing -[3900.24 --> 3903.38] What Paul is saying here -[3903.38 --> 3904.94] What Genesis is saying -[3904.94 --> 3905.78] Before that -[3905.78 --> 3907.84] Is that Abraham's faith -[3907.84 --> 3909.32] His believing -[3909.32 --> 3912.80] Counted as righteousness -[3912.80 --> 3913.88] It means that God -[3913.88 --> 3914.96] Treated Abraham -[3914.96 --> 3916.70] As though he was -[3916.70 --> 3918.18] Living a righteous life -[3918.18 --> 3920.04] His faith was not -[3920.04 --> 3920.66] His righteousness -[3920.66 --> 3922.26] But God counted it -[3922.26 --> 3923.92] As if it were -[3923.92 --> 3925.56] Did you hear that? -[3925.62 --> 3926.10] Because that's the -[3926.10 --> 3926.92] Really important -[3926.92 --> 3928.72] Theological distinction -[3928.72 --> 3930.00] Right? -[3930.04 --> 3931.14] It's the really important part -[3931.14 --> 3931.70] Of what -[3931.70 --> 3933.50] Understanding the question -[3933.50 --> 3934.18] And answer -[3934.18 --> 3935.64] What is faith? -[3936.64 --> 3936.78] Right? -[3936.78 --> 3937.82] Abraham himself -[3937.82 --> 3939.34] Is not righteous -[3939.34 --> 3940.24] Or perfect -[3940.24 --> 3941.24] Or blameless -[3941.24 --> 3942.12] But God -[3942.12 --> 3943.36] Treated him -[3943.36 --> 3944.72] As though he were -[3944.72 --> 3946.44] And why did God -[3946.44 --> 3947.24] Treat him that way? -[3947.78 --> 3949.04] Because he had faith -[3949.04 --> 3950.94] Because he believed -[3950.94 --> 3952.68] And again -[3952.68 --> 3953.96] Believing -[3953.96 --> 3955.50] Having faith -[3955.50 --> 3956.60] Doesn't make him -[3956.60 --> 3957.28] Perfect -[3957.28 --> 3958.32] Right? -[3958.36 --> 3959.34] He's still a sinner -[3959.34 --> 3959.62] Again -[3959.62 --> 3960.66] Read the story -[3960.66 --> 3961.10] Of Abraham -[3961.10 --> 3962.26] After Genesis 15 -[3962.26 --> 3963.36] He doesn't -[3963.36 --> 3964.56] Come across -[3964.56 --> 3965.34] Excellently -[3965.34 --> 3965.90] Read the story -[3965.90 --> 3966.52] Of David -[3966.52 --> 3967.86] A man after God's own heart -[3967.86 --> 3968.60] He definitely -[3968.60 --> 3969.68] Doesn't come across -[3969.68 --> 3970.68] Excellently -[3970.68 --> 3972.42] But these are the examples -[3972.42 --> 3973.06] Right? -[3973.12 --> 3974.70] You are still a sinner -[3974.70 --> 3976.24] Even though you believe -[3976.24 --> 3977.60] Right? -[3977.62 --> 3978.72] You are still sinful -[3978.72 --> 3980.10] Even though -[3980.10 --> 3981.38] You are declared -[3981.38 --> 3982.40] Righteous -[3982.40 --> 3985.48] In the -[3985.48 --> 3986.86] In the Reformation -[3986.86 --> 3989.56] Back in the 16th century -[3989.56 --> 3990.64] There was a phrase -[3990.64 --> 3991.40] That was used -[3991.40 --> 3992.22] By the Reformers -[3992.22 --> 3993.98] It's a Latin phrase -[3993.98 --> 3995.24] So it might not sound -[3995.24 --> 3996.66] Familiar to you -[3996.66 --> 3997.36] And I'll do my best -[3997.36 --> 3998.04] To pronounce it -[3998.04 --> 3998.92] But it is key -[3998.92 --> 4000.14] For our understanding -[4000.14 --> 4000.92] Of what's happening -[4000.92 --> 4001.58] Here -[4001.58 --> 4003.08] That phrase -[4003.08 --> 4004.30] Is simul -[4004.30 --> 4005.08] Eustis -[4005.08 --> 4005.58] Ecc -[4005.58 --> 4006.48] Peccator -[4006.48 --> 4008.58] Simul -[4008.58 --> 4009.08] Eustis -[4009.08 --> 4009.32] Ecc -[4009.32 --> 4009.96] Peccator -[4009.96 --> 4011.62] Simultaneously -[4011.62 --> 4013.04] Righteous -[4013.04 --> 4014.90] Or just -[4014.90 --> 4017.10] And sinful -[4017.10 --> 4021.14] You are simultaneously -[4021.14 --> 4022.06] Righteous -[4022.06 --> 4023.38] And sinful -[4023.38 --> 4024.80] If -[4024.80 --> 4026.06] By grace -[4026.06 --> 4026.90] Through faith -[4026.90 --> 4028.32] You believe -[4028.32 --> 4029.26] That's what -[4029.26 --> 4029.94] Verse 5 -[4029.94 --> 4030.56] Means -[4030.56 --> 4031.20] That's the point -[4031.20 --> 4031.86] That Paul -[4031.86 --> 4032.48] Has been making -[4032.48 --> 4032.78] Here -[4032.78 --> 4033.02] Right? -[4033.06 --> 4033.34] He says -[4033.34 --> 4034.00] However -[4034.00 --> 4034.70] To the one -[4034.70 --> 4035.58] Who does not -[4035.58 --> 4036.12] Work -[4036.12 --> 4037.00] But trusts -[4037.00 --> 4037.58] God -[4037.58 --> 4039.16] Who justifies -[4039.16 --> 4040.02] The ungodly -[4040.02 --> 4040.92] Their faith -[4040.92 --> 4041.78] Is credited -[4041.78 --> 4043.28] As righteous -[4043.28 --> 4044.84] Right? -[4044.90 --> 4045.80] God justifies -[4045.80 --> 4046.68] The ungodly -[4046.68 --> 4047.40] The sinful -[4047.40 --> 4048.84] Because of faith -[4048.84 --> 4049.94] And credits them -[4049.94 --> 4050.88] Righteous -[4050.88 --> 4052.12] Now sometimes -[4052.12 --> 4052.94] You might hear -[4052.94 --> 4054.12] Me use the language -[4054.12 --> 4055.50] Of imputed -[4055.50 --> 4056.64] Righteousness -[4056.64 --> 4057.16] Right? -[4057.20 --> 4057.96] That the perfect -[4057.96 --> 4058.90] Righteousness -[4058.90 --> 4059.38] Of Jesus -[4059.38 --> 4060.38] The perfect -[4060.38 --> 4061.10] Obedience -[4061.10 --> 4061.58] Of Jesus -[4061.58 --> 4062.56] Is imputed -[4062.56 --> 4063.72] Is given over -[4063.72 --> 4064.48] Or in the language -[4064.48 --> 4065.02] Of our text -[4065.02 --> 4066.24] Is credited -[4066.24 --> 4068.14] Is counted -[4068.14 --> 4068.80] As -[4068.80 --> 4070.08] Yours -[4070.08 --> 4073.88] And so here -[4073.88 --> 4075.60] Again to recap -[4075.60 --> 4076.20] The summary -[4076.20 --> 4076.80] That Paul -[4076.80 --> 4077.30] Is making -[4077.30 --> 4078.24] Either -[4078.24 --> 4080.62] Our righteousness -[4080.62 --> 4081.96] Is merited -[4081.96 --> 4083.32] By our works -[4083.32 --> 4085.10] Or -[4085.10 --> 4086.16] It is credited -[4086.16 --> 4086.88] To us -[4086.88 --> 4087.58] Without regard -[4087.58 --> 4088.46] For what we've done -[4088.46 --> 4089.72] Right? -[4089.76 --> 4090.62] That's verse 4 -[4090.62 --> 4091.40] To the one -[4091.40 --> 4092.04] Who works -[4092.04 --> 4092.60] Wages -[4092.60 --> 4093.48] Are not credited -[4093.48 --> 4094.28] As a gift -[4094.28 --> 4095.44] But as an obligation -[4095.44 --> 4097.02] Right? -[4097.10 --> 4098.28] Wages aren't credited -[4098.28 --> 4100.20] They aren't freely given -[4100.20 --> 4100.92] Because -[4100.92 --> 4101.96] They're -[4101.96 --> 4103.02] Required -[4103.02 --> 4104.54] Right? -[4104.60 --> 4105.62] The work you do -[4105.62 --> 4106.58] You ought to get -[4106.58 --> 4107.62] Paid for -[4107.62 --> 4108.14] Right? -[4108.18 --> 4109.06] And if there is -[4109.06 --> 4110.08] A work that you can do -[4110.08 --> 4110.96] To get salvation -[4110.96 --> 4112.88] Then God is obligated -[4112.88 --> 4114.02] To give that to you -[4114.02 --> 4114.70] If you do -[4114.70 --> 4115.56] The work -[4115.56 --> 4117.20] Right? -[4117.22 --> 4117.90] It's not a gift -[4117.90 --> 4119.72] And of course -[4119.72 --> 4121.44] If you read the Bible -[4121.44 --> 4122.28] Right? -[4122.32 --> 4123.22] From beginning to end -[4123.22 --> 4124.00] Or even in -[4124.00 --> 4125.40] These small parts -[4125.40 --> 4126.98] There's no obligation -[4126.98 --> 4128.18] That we can put on God -[4128.18 --> 4129.04] Right? -[4129.04 --> 4129.66] That doesn't fit -[4129.66 --> 4130.76] With what we read -[4130.76 --> 4131.66] In Genesis 15 -[4131.66 --> 4133.10] Or what we see -[4133.10 --> 4133.78] In the person -[4133.78 --> 4135.24] Of Jesus Christ -[4135.24 --> 4137.64] Either -[4137.64 --> 4139.78] It's merited by works -[4139.78 --> 4141.12] Or it's credited -[4141.12 --> 4141.80] Without regard -[4141.80 --> 4142.54] For what we've done -[4142.54 --> 4144.18] And time -[4144.18 --> 4144.86] And time -[4144.86 --> 4145.48] And time -[4145.48 --> 4145.84] Again -[4145.84 --> 4147.24] We want -[4147.24 --> 4148.10] In our minds -[4148.10 --> 4149.24] Because it's the only thing -[4149.24 --> 4149.98] That makes sense -[4149.98 --> 4151.22] To come back -[4151.22 --> 4151.90] To this -[4151.90 --> 4152.36] Merited -[4152.36 --> 4153.58] By works -[4153.58 --> 4155.04] There's a preacher -[4155.04 --> 4155.72] I can't remember -[4155.72 --> 4157.14] Who I heard it from -[4157.14 --> 4157.56] Now -[4157.56 --> 4158.02] He said -[4158.02 --> 4158.56] That -[4158.56 --> 4159.86] As human beings -[4159.86 --> 4160.70] We all want -[4160.70 --> 4161.58] Free things -[4161.58 --> 4163.54] Until it comes -[4163.54 --> 4164.12] To salvation -[4164.12 --> 4165.90] Then we want -[4165.90 --> 4166.60] To earn it -[4166.60 --> 4169.10] Sometimes -[4169.10 --> 4169.98] In conversations -[4169.98 --> 4170.54] That I have -[4170.54 --> 4171.00] With people -[4171.00 --> 4172.48] Whether it's -[4172.48 --> 4173.34] In pastoral counseling -[4173.34 --> 4173.86] Whether it's -[4173.86 --> 4174.70] Teaching a class -[4174.70 --> 4175.76] On the Christian faith -[4175.76 --> 4177.08] I will ask -[4177.08 --> 4177.72] The question -[4177.72 --> 4179.54] What do you think -[4179.54 --> 4180.58] It means to be Christian? -[4181.26 --> 4182.04] What does it mean -[4182.04 --> 4182.62] To be -[4182.62 --> 4183.46] Leave? -[4183.76 --> 4184.32] What does it mean -[4184.32 --> 4185.24] To be saved? -[4185.24 --> 4187.50] And often times -[4187.50 --> 4188.64] The answers I get -[4188.64 --> 4190.30] Are kind of a variation -[4190.30 --> 4190.88] On a theme -[4190.88 --> 4191.96] Right -[4191.96 --> 4193.10] One person might say -[4193.10 --> 4193.64] Well -[4193.64 --> 4195.52] It means that I try my best -[4195.52 --> 4196.90] To be a good person -[4196.90 --> 4198.30] To be a good Christian -[4198.30 --> 4200.66] Another person -[4200.66 --> 4201.46] Will say -[4201.46 --> 4201.70] Well -[4201.70 --> 4203.36] It means that I believe in God -[4203.36 --> 4204.94] And that I try to do His will -[4204.94 --> 4206.96] And then another person -[4206.96 --> 4207.72] Might come along -[4207.72 --> 4208.08] And say -[4208.08 --> 4208.54] Well -[4208.54 --> 4209.48] To be a Christian -[4209.48 --> 4210.90] Means that I believe in God -[4210.90 --> 4212.00] With all my heart -[4212.00 --> 4215.18] You know what ties -[4215.18 --> 4215.84] All three of these -[4215.84 --> 4216.78] Kinds of answers together? -[4218.78 --> 4220.50] Is that so many of us -[4220.50 --> 4222.32] Have operationally -[4222.32 --> 4223.00] Right -[4223.00 --> 4224.44] In actual practice -[4224.44 --> 4225.60] Been thinking about -[4225.60 --> 4226.64] Christian faith -[4226.64 --> 4227.38] And salvation -[4227.38 --> 4229.00] As a form of work -[4229.00 --> 4230.54] Right -[4230.54 --> 4231.44] We say something like -[4231.44 --> 4231.94] Well -[4231.94 --> 4232.42] You know -[4232.42 --> 4233.28] I try my best -[4233.28 --> 4234.22] To be a good person -[4234.22 --> 4235.08] We are saying -[4235.08 --> 4236.38] That salvation comes by -[4236.38 --> 4236.96] Works -[4236.96 --> 4237.66] That we're saved -[4237.66 --> 4238.76] By being good -[4238.76 --> 4239.60] That what matters -[4239.60 --> 4240.82] Is that I try my best -[4240.82 --> 4243.46] And when we say something -[4243.46 --> 4244.08] Like -[4244.08 --> 4245.12] In the next example -[4245.12 --> 4246.16] I believe God -[4246.16 --> 4247.68] And I try to do His will -[4247.68 --> 4248.40] We are saying -[4248.40 --> 4249.50] That salvation comes -[4249.50 --> 4250.46] With faith -[4250.46 --> 4251.64] And works -[4251.64 --> 4253.68] So we need a little bit -[4253.68 --> 4254.04] Of faith -[4254.04 --> 4254.86] Then we need a little bit -[4254.86 --> 4255.22] Of works -[4255.22 --> 4255.84] And then once you -[4255.84 --> 4256.64] Stir those all up -[4256.64 --> 4257.72] Then you get salvation -[4257.72 --> 4259.48] And then lastly -[4259.48 --> 4260.84] When we say something like -[4260.84 --> 4262.42] That I believe in God -[4262.42 --> 4263.50] With all my heart -[4263.50 --> 4265.46] We turn faith -[4265.46 --> 4266.70] Into a kind of work -[4266.70 --> 4267.44] That we do -[4267.44 --> 4268.66] And then you make it again -[4268.66 --> 4269.48] Remember from the beginning -[4269.48 --> 4270.76] About the intensity -[4270.76 --> 4272.14] Of what you believe -[4272.14 --> 4274.06] The intensity -[4274.06 --> 4274.82] Of our belief -[4274.82 --> 4275.88] Then becomes -[4275.88 --> 4278.40] The justifying factor -[4278.40 --> 4280.40] Right -[4280.40 --> 4280.72] Paul -[4280.72 --> 4282.78] Has just said -[4282.78 --> 4283.20] Though -[4283.20 --> 4284.76] In verse 4 -[4284.76 --> 4285.80] And 5 -[4285.80 --> 4287.70] That saving faith -[4287.70 --> 4289.28] Means you do not work -[4289.28 --> 4291.46] But trust -[4291.46 --> 4294.26] But the kind of faith -[4294.26 --> 4296.42] That Paul is referring to -[4296.42 --> 4297.50] And grounding us in -[4297.50 --> 4298.60] And opening our eyes -[4298.60 --> 4300.92] To is not the kind of faith -[4300.92 --> 4301.98] That just believes -[4301.98 --> 4303.06] That God is there -[4303.06 --> 4304.98] It's not the kind of faith -[4304.98 --> 4306.72] That just believes -[4306.72 --> 4307.80] That God is there -[4307.80 --> 4309.14] And that He saves -[4309.14 --> 4309.90] Right -[4309.90 --> 4311.02] The kind of faith -[4311.02 --> 4311.78] That is credited -[4311.78 --> 4312.62] To Abraham -[4312.62 --> 4313.70] As righteousness -[4313.70 --> 4314.88] Is a faith -[4314.88 --> 4316.04] That believes -[4316.04 --> 4317.64] In the object -[4317.64 --> 4319.00] Of that faith -[4319.00 --> 4320.08] In the person -[4320.08 --> 4321.76] Of Jesus Christ -[4321.76 --> 4322.86] In Abraham's case -[4322.86 --> 4323.74] Hoped for -[4323.74 --> 4324.92] In our case for -[4324.92 --> 4325.96] Realized -[4325.96 --> 4326.72] That believes -[4326.72 --> 4327.42] In the object -[4327.42 --> 4328.72] Of our faith -[4328.72 --> 4330.16] And in the promise -[4330.16 --> 4331.28] Of the way -[4331.28 --> 4331.92] Of salvation -[4331.92 --> 4333.20] By grace -[4333.20 --> 4335.56] And here's the thing -[4335.56 --> 4340.28] And this is the danger -[4340.28 --> 4342.48] For most of you -[4342.48 --> 4343.32] Here this morning -[4343.32 --> 4344.60] Right -[4344.60 --> 4345.16] For most of you -[4345.16 --> 4346.78] Who have been connected -[4346.78 --> 4347.28] To church -[4347.28 --> 4348.22] Or grown up in church -[4348.22 --> 4349.78] Or been hearing -[4349.78 --> 4351.08] Lord willing -[4351.08 --> 4352.18] A version of this -[4352.18 --> 4352.94] Truth -[4352.94 --> 4354.14] Your entire life -[4354.14 --> 4354.90] Here's the danger -[4354.90 --> 4356.22] That most of us -[4356.22 --> 4356.94] Face -[4356.94 --> 4358.74] Because you can have -[4358.74 --> 4360.68] An incredibly strong -[4360.68 --> 4361.28] Faith -[4361.28 --> 4362.58] That God exists -[4362.58 --> 4364.32] You can have -[4364.32 --> 4365.80] An incredibly strong -[4365.80 --> 4367.16] And convicted faith -[4367.16 --> 4368.46] That God is loving -[4368.46 --> 4370.02] And that He is holy -[4370.02 --> 4370.98] Right -[4370.98 --> 4371.44] You can have -[4371.44 --> 4372.38] A strong faith -[4372.38 --> 4373.14] That the Bible -[4373.14 --> 4374.70] Is God's word -[4374.70 --> 4375.48] And you can show -[4375.48 --> 4376.38] Great respect -[4376.38 --> 4377.92] And even reverence -[4377.92 --> 4378.80] For God -[4378.80 --> 4379.58] And yet -[4379.58 --> 4380.56] The whole time -[4380.56 --> 4381.40] Be seeking -[4381.40 --> 4382.32] Your own Savior -[4382.32 --> 4383.18] Be seeking -[4383.18 --> 4384.78] Your own self-justification -[4384.78 --> 4386.16] Trusting in your own -[4386.16 --> 4386.76] Performance -[4386.76 --> 4387.54] Or religion -[4387.54 --> 4388.98] Or moral character -[4388.98 --> 4390.28] Or whatever it is -[4390.28 --> 4391.04] That you do -[4391.04 --> 4393.70] And let me just say -[4393.70 --> 4394.58] This might be -[4394.58 --> 4396.24] This might be too bold -[4396.24 --> 4396.98] For some of you -[4396.98 --> 4401.02] If you've ever had anxiety -[4401.02 --> 4403.20] About whether or not -[4403.20 --> 4404.04] You are saved -[4404.04 --> 4406.28] If you've ever been afraid -[4406.28 --> 4407.28] About whether or not -[4407.28 --> 4408.12] You are forgiven -[4408.12 --> 4408.92] Right -[4408.92 --> 4410.06] If you are looking -[4410.06 --> 4410.78] At yourself -[4410.78 --> 4411.74] And your experience -[4411.74 --> 4412.30] Of God -[4412.30 --> 4412.82] And religion -[4412.82 --> 4413.48] And faith -[4413.48 --> 4414.12] Right -[4414.12 --> 4414.76] In this way -[4414.76 --> 4417.02] And worried about it -[4417.02 --> 4420.06] That's the wrong idea -[4420.06 --> 4420.78] Of faith -[4420.78 --> 4422.54] Right -[4422.54 --> 4423.62] That you are still -[4423.62 --> 4424.12] Thinking -[4424.12 --> 4424.80] It's something -[4424.80 --> 4425.82] You can earn -[4425.82 --> 4427.54] You are still -[4427.54 --> 4428.30] Thinking then -[4428.30 --> 4429.06] If it's something -[4429.06 --> 4429.76] You can earn -[4429.76 --> 4430.94] It's also something -[4430.94 --> 4432.44] You can lose -[4432.44 --> 4435.22] But the faith -[4435.22 --> 4435.78] In the Bible -[4435.78 --> 4436.54] Is not -[4436.54 --> 4437.36] That -[4437.36 --> 4439.30] You are trusting -[4439.30 --> 4440.42] In your own -[4440.42 --> 4441.64] Ability to trust -[4441.64 --> 4443.84] And then when -[4443.84 --> 4444.50] Your ability -[4444.50 --> 4445.16] To trust -[4445.16 --> 4446.16] Fails -[4446.16 --> 4447.42] It feels like -[4447.42 --> 4448.04] Your salvation -[4448.04 --> 4449.12] Fails with it -[4449.12 --> 4451.26] Now -[4451.26 --> 4452.86] If that's where -[4452.86 --> 4453.34] You are at -[4453.34 --> 4453.74] This morning -[4453.74 --> 4454.20] Or if you -[4454.20 --> 4455.20] Have felt this way -[4455.20 --> 4455.56] Before -[4455.56 --> 4458.58] There's good news -[4458.58 --> 4459.04] For you -[4459.04 --> 4459.80] Right -[4459.80 --> 4460.76] There's gospel -[4460.76 --> 4461.36] For you -[4461.36 --> 4462.58] In this text -[4462.58 --> 4462.78] Right -[4462.78 --> 4464.06] That saving faith -[4464.06 --> 4464.78] The faith -[4464.78 --> 4465.70] That we read -[4465.70 --> 4466.46] About in the Bible -[4466.46 --> 4466.96] Is -[4466.96 --> 4469.18] The ending -[4469.18 --> 4470.50] Of one kind -[4470.50 --> 4471.02] Of trust -[4471.02 --> 4471.54] Whether it's -[4471.54 --> 4472.24] Trusting in -[4472.24 --> 4472.92] Your trust -[4472.92 --> 4473.46] Or trusting -[4473.46 --> 4474.50] In your ability -[4474.50 --> 4475.80] And the beginning -[4475.80 --> 4476.92] Of a new kind -[4476.92 --> 4477.52] Of trust -[4477.52 --> 4478.66] Right -[4478.66 --> 4479.32] Tim Keller -[4479.32 --> 4480.02] Calls this -[4480.02 --> 4481.78] A trust transfer -[4481.78 --> 4483.24] Where you consciously -[4483.24 --> 4484.74] See where your trust -[4484.74 --> 4485.28] Is -[4485.28 --> 4485.94] And you -[4485.94 --> 4487.56] Remove your hopes -[4487.56 --> 4488.20] And your trust -[4488.20 --> 4489.10] From those things -[4489.10 --> 4490.14] And you place -[4490.14 --> 4491.30] Them on God -[4491.30 --> 4493.08] As your savior -[4493.08 --> 4494.70] Right -[4494.70 --> 4495.38] And to the Jews -[4495.38 --> 4496.38] Of Paul's day -[4496.38 --> 4497.66] Their trust -[4497.66 --> 4498.84] Was in something -[4498.84 --> 4500.68] Like their circumcision -[4500.68 --> 4502.10] Right -[4502.10 --> 4502.88] It was in something -[4502.88 --> 4503.84] Like their -[4503.84 --> 4505.26] Ethnic identity -[4505.26 --> 4506.32] Or their connection -[4506.32 --> 4507.24] To the monarchy -[4507.24 --> 4508.62] In either Abraham -[4508.62 --> 4509.66] Or David -[4509.66 --> 4513.90] Verse 11 -[4513.90 --> 4515.38] Paul writes -[4515.38 --> 4516.08] He, Abraham -[4516.08 --> 4517.28] Received circumcision -[4517.28 --> 4518.10] As a sign -[4518.10 --> 4518.70] And seal -[4518.70 --> 4519.46] Of righteousness -[4519.46 --> 4520.60] That he had -[4520.60 --> 4521.26] By faith -[4521.26 --> 4522.26] While he was -[4522.26 --> 4522.76] Still -[4522.76 --> 4524.62] Uncircumcised -[4524.62 --> 4528.34] Paul's point -[4528.34 --> 4528.94] Is that the -[4528.94 --> 4529.80] Righteousness -[4529.80 --> 4530.50] That Abraham -[4530.50 --> 4531.60] Had -[4531.60 --> 4532.42] Came to him -[4532.42 --> 4533.76] Before he was -[4533.76 --> 4534.60] Circumcised -[4534.60 --> 4535.88] Because he believed -[4535.88 --> 4537.82] And so if you -[4537.82 --> 4538.60] Are relying -[4538.60 --> 4539.36] On something -[4539.36 --> 4540.20] You do -[4540.20 --> 4541.24] To have that -[4541.24 --> 4541.72] Righteousness -[4541.72 --> 4542.30] Or to claim -[4542.30 --> 4543.12] That identity -[4543.12 --> 4544.00] Like the Jews -[4544.00 --> 4544.44] Of his day -[4544.44 --> 4545.50] Were in circumcision -[4545.50 --> 4546.90] You are missing -[4546.90 --> 4548.42] The point -[4548.42 --> 4549.66] Right -[4549.66 --> 4550.64] The act -[4550.64 --> 4551.46] Of circumcision -[4551.46 --> 4552.38] Is a sign -[4552.38 --> 4553.72] And a seal -[4553.72 --> 4554.86] Of something -[4554.86 --> 4556.34] That precedes -[4556.34 --> 4557.78] Of a spiritual -[4557.78 --> 4558.58] Reality -[4558.58 --> 4559.70] That has already -[4559.70 --> 4560.92] Taken place -[4560.92 --> 4563.26] For those of you -[4563.26 --> 4563.60] Who are in the -[4563.60 --> 4563.72] Note -[4563.72 --> 4564.84] We use that -[4564.84 --> 4565.58] Language today -[4565.58 --> 4566.22] Right -[4566.22 --> 4567.18] About our sacraments -[4567.18 --> 4567.64] Next week -[4567.64 --> 4568.02] We're going to -[4568.02 --> 4568.66] Come to the -[4568.66 --> 4569.20] Lord's table -[4569.20 --> 4569.94] We talk about -[4569.94 --> 4570.88] The Lord's table -[4570.88 --> 4571.82] As a sign -[4571.82 --> 4573.04] And a seal -[4573.04 --> 4574.52] Of a spiritual -[4574.52 --> 4575.16] Reality -[4575.16 --> 4575.78] That's already -[4575.78 --> 4576.48] Taken place -[4576.48 --> 4577.62] So we come -[4577.62 --> 4578.40] To the table -[4578.40 --> 4578.96] Right -[4578.96 --> 4579.32] We're not -[4579.32 --> 4580.60] There to -[4580.60 --> 4582.90] Receive -[4582.90 --> 4583.52] Something that -[4583.52 --> 4583.98] We haven't -[4583.98 --> 4584.60] Yet received -[4584.60 --> 4585.48] Right -[4585.48 --> 4585.84] We're not there -[4585.84 --> 4586.30] To receive -[4586.30 --> 4586.96] A new -[4586.96 --> 4587.88] Grace -[4587.88 --> 4588.56] Or a new -[4588.56 --> 4589.00] Encounter -[4589.00 --> 4589.50] With God -[4589.50 --> 4590.60] We are receiving -[4590.60 --> 4591.10] What we have -[4591.10 --> 4592.02] Already been -[4592.02 --> 4592.62] Declared -[4592.62 --> 4593.40] To be -[4593.40 --> 4595.36] It's a sign -[4595.36 --> 4595.94] And a seal -[4595.94 --> 4596.56] It's made -[4596.56 --> 4597.76] Tangible -[4597.76 --> 4598.56] Right -[4598.56 --> 4598.92] In the case -[4598.92 --> 4599.28] Of Lord's -[4599.28 --> 4599.42] Supper -[4599.42 --> 4599.80] It's made -[4599.80 --> 4600.70] Tasteable -[4600.70 --> 4602.06] As you come -[4602.06 --> 4602.96] And receive -[4602.96 --> 4603.68] And see -[4603.68 --> 4604.22] That you have -[4604.22 --> 4605.22] Been received -[4605.22 --> 4606.96] By God -[4606.96 --> 4608.28] Right -[4608.28 --> 4608.98] It's a sign -[4608.98 --> 4609.62] And a seal -[4609.62 --> 4610.74] Of the promises -[4610.74 --> 4612.46] Of faith -[4612.46 --> 4613.52] The promises -[4613.52 --> 4614.34] Of the gospel -[4614.34 --> 4616.14] Right -[4616.14 --> 4616.52] That -[4616.52 --> 4620.50] That it is not -[4620.50 --> 4621.18] Through the law -[4621.18 --> 4621.60] That Abraham -[4621.60 --> 4622.28] In his offering -[4622.28 --> 4623.60] Received the promise -[4623.60 --> 4624.38] That he would be -[4624.38 --> 4625.26] Heir of the world -[4625.26 --> 4626.64] But through the righteousness -[4626.64 --> 4627.46] That comes -[4627.46 --> 4628.58] By faith -[4628.58 --> 4629.58] Or verse 16 -[4629.58 --> 4630.12] The promise -[4630.12 --> 4631.20] Comes by faith -[4631.20 --> 4631.94] So that it may be -[4631.94 --> 4632.60] By grace -[4632.60 --> 4633.48] And may be -[4633.48 --> 4634.64] Guaranteed -[4634.64 --> 4636.02] To all Abraham's -[4636.02 --> 4636.46] Offspring -[4636.46 --> 4636.98] Hear that -[4636.98 --> 4638.20] Only the promise -[4638.20 --> 4639.26] That comes by faith -[4639.26 --> 4640.14] Is guaranteed -[4640.14 --> 4641.86] Everything else -[4641.86 --> 4643.24] Will fall short -[4643.24 --> 4644.20] And then 17 -[4644.20 --> 4645.54] The end -[4645.54 --> 4646.72] The God -[4646.72 --> 4648.02] Who gives -[4648.02 --> 4648.76] Life -[4648.76 --> 4650.82] To the dead -[4650.82 --> 4652.20] And calls -[4652.20 --> 4653.42] Into being -[4653.42 --> 4654.38] Things -[4654.38 --> 4655.02] That were -[4655.02 --> 4655.86] Not -[4655.86 --> 4658.04] This is the promise -[4658.04 --> 4658.72] Of faith -[4658.72 --> 4659.72] Right -[4659.72 --> 4660.12] That God -[4660.12 --> 4660.92] Calls -[4660.92 --> 4661.62] Out -[4661.62 --> 4662.34] Life -[4662.34 --> 4663.66] From death -[4663.66 --> 4664.18] And calls -[4664.18 --> 4664.76] Into being -[4664.76 --> 4665.34] Things that -[4665.34 --> 4665.74] Were not -[4665.74 --> 4666.66] And in the case -[4666.66 --> 4667.20] Of Abraham -[4667.20 --> 4667.86] That happens -[4667.86 --> 4668.56] Time and again -[4668.56 --> 4668.80] Right -[4668.80 --> 4669.06] You have -[4669.06 --> 4669.84] He calls -[4669.84 --> 4670.68] Life from death -[4670.68 --> 4671.14] In the story -[4671.14 --> 4671.74] Of Isaac -[4671.74 --> 4672.70] Right -[4672.70 --> 4674.00] Who is saved -[4674.00 --> 4675.10] And a ram -[4675.10 --> 4675.64] Is offered -[4675.64 --> 4676.32] In place -[4676.32 --> 4677.60] Saved from death -[4677.60 --> 4678.24] So that he might -[4678.24 --> 4679.56] Have life -[4679.56 --> 4680.38] Right -[4680.38 --> 4681.14] In the story -[4681.14 --> 4681.94] As it continues -[4681.94 --> 4683.02] We have the resurrection -[4683.02 --> 4683.58] Of Jesus -[4683.58 --> 4683.94] Right -[4683.94 --> 4685.06] Who died -[4685.06 --> 4686.44] Though he lived -[4686.44 --> 4687.16] Perfectly -[4687.16 --> 4687.90] On a cross -[4687.90 --> 4688.48] He died -[4688.48 --> 4689.46] In our place -[4689.46 --> 4690.68] And then was raised -[4690.68 --> 4691.92] Three days later -[4691.92 --> 4693.16] And that power -[4693.16 --> 4693.92] Of the resurrection -[4693.92 --> 4694.70] Continues -[4694.70 --> 4695.26] As it is guaranteed -[4695.26 --> 4696.34] Even to you now -[4696.34 --> 4697.08] As we -[4697.08 --> 4697.94] As Paul has said -[4697.94 --> 4698.78] Are dead -[4698.78 --> 4699.92] In our transgressions -[4699.92 --> 4700.36] And sins -[4700.36 --> 4701.60] We are raised -[4701.60 --> 4702.52] To newness -[4702.52 --> 4703.62] Of life -[4703.62 --> 4705.36] This is the promise -[4705.36 --> 4706.48] Of the gospel -[4706.48 --> 4707.38] This is the promise -[4707.38 --> 4708.78] That is affirmed -[4708.78 --> 4709.68] Again and again -[4709.68 --> 4710.46] In the signs -[4710.46 --> 4711.38] And seals -[4711.38 --> 4712.28] Of our faith -[4712.28 --> 4713.40] And let me tell you -[4713.40 --> 4714.26] What this promise -[4714.26 --> 4714.96] Is not -[4714.96 --> 4718.54] It is not -[4718.54 --> 4720.40] A leap of faith -[4720.40 --> 4722.00] That is -[4722.00 --> 4725.44] A casting off -[4725.44 --> 4727.26] Of our rational -[4727.26 --> 4728.52] Faculties -[4728.52 --> 4729.88] It's not -[4729.88 --> 4731.62] A blind trust -[4731.62 --> 4733.20] Okay -[4733.20 --> 4734.10] There is -[4734.10 --> 4734.76] I'll put it this way -[4734.76 --> 4735.88] There is nothing -[4735.88 --> 4737.28] More reasonable -[4737.28 --> 4739.26] Than faith in God -[4739.26 --> 4741.84] Let me say that again -[4741.84 --> 4742.38] There's nothing -[4742.38 --> 4743.24] More reasonable -[4743.24 --> 4744.42] Than faith in God -[4744.42 --> 4744.66] Listen -[4744.66 --> 4745.74] This is who God is -[4745.74 --> 4746.62] The God who gives -[4746.62 --> 4747.52] Life to the dead -[4747.52 --> 4748.80] And calls into being -[4748.80 --> 4749.76] Things that were -[4749.76 --> 4750.54] Not -[4750.54 --> 4753.20] And if he can do that -[4753.20 --> 4754.76] Right -[4754.76 --> 4756.06] The illogical thing -[4756.06 --> 4758.24] Is to not believe -[4758.24 --> 4760.96] The irrational thing -[4760.96 --> 4762.40] Is to reject him -[4762.40 --> 4765.42] The reasonable thing -[4765.42 --> 4767.38] Is to believe -[4767.38 --> 4768.44] And to have faith -[4768.44 --> 4769.46] Now -[4769.46 --> 4770.88] I'll say this -[4770.88 --> 4774.22] Faith without reason -[4774.22 --> 4775.48] Is what -[4775.48 --> 4777.26] Biblical scholars -[4777.26 --> 4777.60] Might call -[4777.60 --> 4778.30] Feedism -[4778.30 --> 4779.22] Right -[4779.22 --> 4780.22] And that comes back -[4780.22 --> 4780.88] To the intensity -[4780.88 --> 4781.88] Of our feelings -[4781.88 --> 4783.54] And reason -[4783.54 --> 4784.44] Without faith -[4784.44 --> 4785.96] Is rationalism -[4785.96 --> 4788.12] Both are wrong -[4788.12 --> 4788.14] Both are wrong -[4788.14 --> 4791.56] Paul says -[4791.56 --> 4792.70] Here -[4792.70 --> 4794.22] In Ephesians 2 -[4794.22 --> 4794.68] Now -[4794.68 --> 4795.78] By grace -[4795.78 --> 4796.84] You have been saved -[4796.84 --> 4797.60] Through faith -[4797.60 --> 4798.56] And this -[4798.56 --> 4799.60] Is the gift -[4799.60 --> 4800.82] Of God -[4800.82 --> 4802.80] Hear that -[4802.80 --> 4804.20] Faith -[4804.20 --> 4805.60] Is the gift -[4805.60 --> 4807.62] Of God -[4807.62 --> 4809.20] What is faith -[4809.20 --> 4810.96] Faith is the trust -[4810.96 --> 4812.90] Faith is trust -[4812.90 --> 4813.82] In the person -[4813.82 --> 4814.64] Of Jesus -[4814.64 --> 4815.70] And the promise -[4815.70 --> 4816.74] Of the gospel -[4816.74 --> 4818.28] That is gifted -[4818.28 --> 4819.18] To you -[4819.18 --> 4820.58] By grace -[4820.58 --> 4827.32] But that faith -[4827.32 --> 4829.98] Becomes exercised -[4829.98 --> 4831.26] In your belief -[4831.26 --> 4833.20] That gift -[4833.20 --> 4835.10] Is made real -[4835.10 --> 4836.84] In how you see -[4836.84 --> 4837.50] The world -[4837.50 --> 4838.10] Now -[4838.10 --> 4840.28] And so this is where -[4840.28 --> 4840.74] We're going to look -[4840.74 --> 4841.34] Very quickly -[4841.34 --> 4843.06] At the last few verses -[4843.06 --> 4843.94] That we didn't read -[4843.94 --> 4845.46] So what does it mean -[4845.46 --> 4846.60] To believe God -[4846.60 --> 4847.88] So faith is the gift -[4847.88 --> 4849.08] And Abraham's faith -[4849.08 --> 4849.88] Was credited to him -[4849.88 --> 4850.50] As righteousness -[4850.50 --> 4851.86] That is made manifest -[4851.86 --> 4853.82] Now in your belief -[4853.82 --> 4855.80] Abraham shows us -[4855.80 --> 4858.52] Verse 19 -[4858.52 --> 4859.94] Without weakening -[4859.94 --> 4860.66] His faith -[4860.66 --> 4862.00] He faced the fact -[4862.00 --> 4862.82] That his body -[4862.82 --> 4863.62] Was as good -[4863.62 --> 4864.50] As dead -[4864.50 --> 4865.46] Since he was about -[4865.46 --> 4866.32] 100 years old -[4866.32 --> 4867.46] And that Sarah's womb -[4867.46 --> 4868.36] Was also dead -[4868.36 --> 4870.58] Right so in Abraham's story -[4870.58 --> 4871.88] He was promised a child -[4871.88 --> 4873.56] And that child -[4873.56 --> 4874.10] Never came -[4874.10 --> 4875.80] And it never came -[4875.80 --> 4877.06] And it never came -[4877.06 --> 4878.10] And it never came -[4878.10 --> 4878.94] We don't know exactly -[4878.94 --> 4879.30] How long -[4879.30 --> 4879.76] But it might have been -[4879.76 --> 4880.58] 40 years -[4880.58 --> 4882.04] Since the promise -[4882.04 --> 4883.26] Was first spoken to him -[4883.26 --> 4884.72] That he would be -[4884.72 --> 4885.84] A father of many nations -[4885.84 --> 4887.54] And his wife -[4887.54 --> 4888.16] Remained barren -[4888.16 --> 4889.52] And when she is -[4889.52 --> 4890.52] In her 90s -[4890.52 --> 4891.74] And he is equally -[4891.74 --> 4893.04] As old or older -[4893.04 --> 4895.18] Then they finally -[4895.18 --> 4896.52] Have a child -[4896.52 --> 4897.64] Right -[4897.64 --> 4900.10] What does belief -[4900.10 --> 4901.00] Look like -[4901.00 --> 4901.68] What does it mean -[4901.68 --> 4903.22] To believe in God -[4903.22 --> 4904.30] What does Abraham show us -[4904.30 --> 4905.60] That to know -[4905.60 --> 4906.88] That reality -[4906.88 --> 4908.24] Is greater -[4908.24 --> 4909.98] Than how we feel -[4909.98 --> 4911.42] Or how things appear -[4911.42 --> 4914.02] That's what belief does -[4914.02 --> 4915.02] Right -[4915.02 --> 4916.20] To know that the reality -[4916.20 --> 4917.74] That we live in -[4917.74 --> 4919.96] Is greater than how we feel -[4919.96 --> 4920.96] Or how things appear -[4920.96 --> 4922.12] Right -[4922.12 --> 4923.88] One person has said -[4923.88 --> 4925.16] That faith is not opposed -[4925.16 --> 4925.88] To reason -[4925.88 --> 4927.48] But faith is sometimes -[4927.48 --> 4928.96] Opposed to our feelings -[4928.96 --> 4930.38] And to our appearances -[4930.38 --> 4932.42] To what it seems like -[4932.42 --> 4933.24] Is going on -[4933.24 --> 4935.32] Secondly -[4935.32 --> 4937.08] Faith -[4937.08 --> 4937.70] And what it means -[4937.70 --> 4938.40] To believe -[4938.40 --> 4940.08] Is to focus on -[4940.08 --> 4942.32] Facts about God -[4942.32 --> 4943.40] Look at verse 20 -[4943.40 --> 4944.28] And 21 -[4944.28 --> 4945.80] Yet he -[4945.80 --> 4946.26] Abraham -[4946.26 --> 4947.36] Did not waver -[4947.36 --> 4948.46] Through unbelief -[4948.46 --> 4949.42] Regarding the promise -[4949.42 --> 4949.88] Of God -[4949.88 --> 4950.74] But was strengthened -[4950.74 --> 4951.56] In his faith -[4951.56 --> 4952.98] And gave glory to God -[4952.98 --> 4954.58] Being fully persuaded -[4954.58 --> 4955.68] That God had the power -[4955.68 --> 4957.44] To do what he had promised -[4957.44 --> 4960.54] Now what are these facts -[4960.54 --> 4961.90] That he is fully persuaded by -[4961.90 --> 4963.18] Again back to verse 17 -[4963.18 --> 4964.52] The God who gives life -[4964.52 --> 4965.10] From the dead -[4965.10 --> 4966.38] And calls into being -[4966.38 --> 4968.34] Things that were not -[4968.34 --> 4971.30] God created all that is -[4971.30 --> 4972.34] Right -[4972.34 --> 4973.56] He flung the stars -[4973.56 --> 4974.44] Into the sky -[4974.44 --> 4975.76] He formed the mountains -[4975.76 --> 4977.04] With his words -[4977.04 --> 4979.14] And he raised the dead -[4979.14 --> 4982.94] And that you leave here -[4982.94 --> 4984.24] Worrying about if he can -[4984.24 --> 4984.80] Do your thing -[4984.80 --> 4987.64] You're afraid -[4987.64 --> 4989.20] Of what might happen -[4989.20 --> 4992.22] Now listen carefully -[4992.22 --> 4992.96] Okay -[4992.96 --> 4994.44] Because that doesn't mean -[4994.44 --> 4995.38] He'll do your thing -[4995.38 --> 4998.52] It just means that he can -[4998.52 --> 5001.54] And it also means -[5001.54 --> 5002.42] That if he doesn't -[5002.42 --> 5005.22] You can be absolutely sure -[5005.22 --> 5006.72] That he has a reason -[5006.72 --> 5008.38] And that his reason -[5008.38 --> 5008.90] Is better -[5008.90 --> 5010.20] Even if it makes -[5010.20 --> 5011.26] No sense to you -[5011.26 --> 5012.38] But that's the first thing -[5012.38 --> 5013.70] Right -[5013.70 --> 5015.14] That's how we know -[5015.14 --> 5016.32] That reality is greater -[5016.32 --> 5017.16] Than what we feel -[5017.16 --> 5018.62] Or what things appear -[5018.62 --> 5020.52] As we focus on facts -[5020.52 --> 5022.28] About who God is -[5022.28 --> 5022.88] And then finally -[5022.88 --> 5023.96] What we learn from Abraham -[5023.96 --> 5026.08] Is to trust -[5026.08 --> 5027.72] The word of God -[5027.72 --> 5029.52] To trust his promise -[5029.52 --> 5031.48] Now verse 21 -[5031.48 --> 5032.68] Being fully persuaded -[5032.68 --> 5033.76] That God had power -[5033.76 --> 5036.48] To do what he had promised -[5036.48 --> 5038.02] God has the power -[5038.02 --> 5040.40] To do what he has promised -[5040.40 --> 5042.48] Believing God -[5042.48 --> 5043.84] Isn't simply believing -[5043.84 --> 5045.82] Or thinking things about him -[5045.82 --> 5048.38] But it is trusting him -[5048.38 --> 5050.40] It is trusting his word -[5050.40 --> 5053.58] It is to look at what God has said -[5053.58 --> 5057.04] And let that define reality for you -[5057.04 --> 5060.04] And increasingly -[5060.04 --> 5062.12] Perhaps in today's world -[5062.12 --> 5063.32] Your feelings -[5063.32 --> 5064.82] Or popular opinion -[5064.82 --> 5066.34] Or cultural ideologies -[5066.34 --> 5067.02] And ideas -[5067.02 --> 5069.30] Even what seems to so many -[5069.30 --> 5070.34] Like common sense -[5070.34 --> 5072.04] Might seem to contradict -[5072.04 --> 5073.96] What God says -[5073.96 --> 5077.42] But there's nothing more reasonable -[5077.42 --> 5079.66] Than taking God at his word -[5079.66 --> 5082.30] Because that's who he is -[5082.30 --> 5085.00] And then finally -[5085.00 --> 5086.26] And I'll land here -[5086.26 --> 5089.84] Believing these things -[5089.84 --> 5094.20] Leads to belonging -[5094.20 --> 5096.18] And so really quickly -[5096.18 --> 5098.00] Verse 16 -[5098.00 --> 5100.04] The promises come by faith -[5100.04 --> 5101.66] So that it may be by grace -[5101.66 --> 5102.44] And may be guaranteed -[5102.44 --> 5105.30] To all Abraham's offspring -[5105.30 --> 5107.70] Not only to those who are of the law -[5107.70 --> 5110.52] But also to those who have the faith of Abraham -[5110.52 --> 5112.74] Verse 9 is the same thing -[5112.74 --> 5113.80] In question form -[5113.80 --> 5116.18] Is this blessedness only for the circumcised -[5116.18 --> 5118.58] Or also for the uncircumcised? -[5119.78 --> 5119.92] Right? -[5119.98 --> 5120.74] Verse 11 -[5120.74 --> 5124.42] He received circumcision as a sign and seal -[5124.42 --> 5125.74] Of righteousness that he had by faith -[5125.74 --> 5127.26] While he was still uncircumcised -[5127.26 --> 5130.62] So then he is the father of all who believe -[5130.62 --> 5132.90] But have not been circumcised -[5132.90 --> 5134.32] All right? -[5134.36 --> 5135.26] And we can go back here -[5135.26 --> 5137.20] Remember chapter 4 is an example -[5137.20 --> 5138.80] Of what he talked about in chapter 3 -[5138.80 --> 5140.72] And so chapter 3 verse 29 -[5140.72 --> 5141.64] Paul asks -[5141.64 --> 5143.88] Is God the God of Jews only? -[5144.06 --> 5146.72] Is he not the God of Gentiles too? -[5146.72 --> 5147.42] Yes -[5147.42 --> 5150.56] Of Gentiles too -[5150.56 --> 5155.64] Having this faith -[5155.64 --> 5157.68] Credit to you as righteousness -[5157.68 --> 5159.74] Believing in this God -[5159.74 --> 5164.18] Leads to belonging to his body -[5164.18 --> 5165.78] To his people -[5165.78 --> 5167.64] To his family -[5167.64 --> 5172.20] The promise of justification by faith -[5172.20 --> 5172.66] Right? -[5172.74 --> 5175.44] Isn't just a doctrine for individual salvation -[5175.44 --> 5176.36] Though it is that -[5176.36 --> 5180.82] But it is also for the community of faith -[5180.82 --> 5184.52] This imputed righteousness to the individual -[5184.52 --> 5188.68] Comes with a community to belong in -[5188.68 --> 5191.68] And so when we together are called -[5191.68 --> 5193.08] To work out our salvation -[5193.08 --> 5194.26] With fear and trembling -[5194.26 --> 5196.84] To wrestle with the truths of who God is -[5196.84 --> 5198.82] And the way that we see or don't see -[5198.82 --> 5200.82] Or struggle to see God at work in the world -[5200.82 --> 5203.32] We do so together -[5203.32 --> 5206.76] We do so as a family -[5206.76 --> 5210.54] Who never has to walk alone -[5210.54 --> 5214.00] But who walks with God -[5214.00 --> 5216.52] And who walks with our brothers and sisters -[5216.52 --> 5217.98] In faith -[5217.98 --> 5220.98] The faith that unites us to Jesus -[5220.98 --> 5224.10] Is the faith that unites us to each other -[5224.10 --> 5225.62] And again next week at the table -[5225.62 --> 5227.96] We will see that so clearly -[5227.96 --> 5230.96] Simultaneously in that moment -[5230.96 --> 5233.90] We are being united to Jesus and each other -[5233.90 --> 5238.40] This is our faith -[5238.40 --> 5241.98] To trust in who God is -[5241.98 --> 5243.78] What he has done in Jesus Christ -[5243.78 --> 5246.20] And the promise of the gospel -[5246.20 --> 5249.38] As you go into this week -[5249.38 --> 5252.70] Go held by that truth -[5252.70 --> 5255.14] And go that you might see the world -[5255.14 --> 5258.62] Believing who God is -[5258.62 --> 5263.14] Because that is an unstoppable movement of God -[5263.14 --> 5264.60] In the world -[5264.60 --> 5265.80] That will start here -[5265.80 --> 5267.98] As he goes with you -[5267.98 --> 5268.56] Amen? -[5268.56 --> 5270.32] Let's pray together -[5270.32 --> 5274.72] Lord our good -[5274.72 --> 5276.52] Glorious God -[5276.52 --> 5279.84] We praise your name -[5279.84 --> 5282.46] For the gift of faith -[5282.46 --> 5285.04] We praise your name -[5285.04 --> 5287.58] For the gift of your gospel -[5287.58 --> 5290.02] That we might see Jesus Christ -[5290.02 --> 5290.74] More clearly -[5290.74 --> 5292.20] That we might know the promises -[5292.20 --> 5293.62] Of your salvation -[5293.62 --> 5294.70] More deeply -[5294.70 --> 5297.12] In the depths of our heart -[5297.12 --> 5299.34] And we thank you -[5299.34 --> 5299.88] Lord God -[5299.88 --> 5301.36] That as we believe -[5301.36 --> 5303.38] We belong to you -[5303.38 --> 5304.66] And to each other -[5304.66 --> 5305.96] And so we go -[5305.96 --> 5308.32] In the power of your Holy Spirit -[5308.32 --> 5310.20] And we go in the fellowship -[5310.20 --> 5311.98] Of believers -[5311.98 --> 5315.38] In Jesus name we pray -[5315.38 --> 5316.84] All God's people said -[5316.84 --> 5318.00] Amen -[5318.00 --> 5318.14] Amen -[5318.14 --> 5342.14] What is our hope -[5342.14 --> 5344.18] In life and death -[5344.18 --> 5346.32] Christ alone -[5346.32 --> 5348.68] Christ alone -[5348.68 --> 5352.78] What is our only confidence -[5352.78 --> 5358.24] That our souls belong to love -[5358.24 --> 5362.80] Who holds our deeds within our hand -[5362.80 --> 5366.80] What comes upon from his command -[5366.80 --> 5372.04] And what will keep us to the end -[5372.04 --> 5374.62] The love of Christ -[5374.62 --> 5377.24] In which we stand -[5377.24 --> 5383.44] Oh sing hallelujah -[5383.44 --> 5388.00] Our hope springs eternal -[5388.00 --> 5392.44] Oh sing hallelujah -[5392.44 --> 5396.44] Now and ever we confess -[5396.44 --> 5401.04] Christ our hope in life and death -[5401.04 --> 5411.42] What truth can calm the troubled soul -[5411.42 --> 5414.04] God is good -[5414.04 --> 5415.90] God is good -[5415.90 --> 5420.38] Where is his grace and goodness known -[5420.38 --> 5424.90] In our great redeemer's blood -[5424.90 --> 5429.38] Who holds our faith when fears arise -[5429.38 --> 5433.80] Who stands above the stormy trial -[5433.80 --> 5438.32] Who sends the waves that bring us time -[5438.32 --> 5443.10] Unto the shore the rock of Christ -[5443.10 --> 5447.52] Oh sing hallelujah -[5447.52 --> 5451.56] Our hope springs eternal -[5451.56 --> 5455.92] Oh sing hallelujah -[5455.92 --> 5459.10] Now and ever we confess -[5459.10 --> 5464.10] Christ our hope in life and death -[5464.10 --> 5465.10] Christ he lives -[5465.10 --> 5477.10] Christ he lives -[5477.10 --> 5479.10] Christ he lives -[5479.10 --> 5483.48] And what reward will heaven bring -[5483.48 --> 5488.10] Everlasting life within -[5488.10 --> 5493.10] There we will rise to meet the Lord -[5493.10 --> 5497.10] Then sin and death will be destroyed -[5497.10 --> 5499.10] And we will be destroyed -[5499.10 --> 5501.10] And we will be in endless joy -[5501.10 --> 5502.10] When Christ is ours forevermore -[5502.10 --> 5506.10] When Christ is ours forevermore -[5506.10 --> 5508.10] Oh sing -[5508.10 --> 5509.10] Oh sing -[5509.10 --> 5513.10] Oh sing hallelujah -[5513.10 --> 5517.10] Our hope springs eternal -[5517.10 --> 5518.10] Oh sing hallelujah -[5518.10 --> 5525.10] Now and ever we confess -[5525.10 --> 5529.10] Christ our hope in life and death -[5529.10 --> 5533.10] Oh sing hallelujah -[5533.10 --> 5534.10] Hallelujah -[5534.10 --> 5535.10] Our hope springs eternal -[5535.10 --> 5537.10] Our hope springs eternal -[5537.10 --> 5538.10] Oh sing hallelujah -[5538.10 --> 5539.10] Oh sing hallelujah -[5539.10 --> 5540.10] Now and ever we confess -[5540.10 --> 5544.10] Christ our hope in life and death -[5544.10 --> 5545.10] Christ our hope in life and death -[5545.10 --> 5546.10] Now and ever we confess -[5546.10 --> 5552.10] Christ our hope in life and death -[5552.10 --> 5553.10] Now and ever we confess -[5553.10 --> 5558.10] Christ our hope in life and death -[5570.10 --> 5573.10] Following our worship together this morning -[5573.10 --> 5577.10] We continue experiencing the union of the fellowship -[5577.10 --> 5579.10] As we have coffee and refreshments together -[5579.10 --> 5582.10] Invite you to stick around for that -[5582.10 --> 5584.10] Perhaps take a risk and talk to someone new -[5584.10 --> 5586.10] Or someone who you don't know -[5586.10 --> 5590.10] We're grateful for lots of visitors in these last while -[5590.10 --> 5593.10] We want to make sure that we can grab you and connect with you -[5593.10 --> 5596.10] If you are visiting there are connect cards available in your seats -[5596.10 --> 5598.10] Or there's a QR code you can scan -[5598.10 --> 5599.10] We'd love to hear from you -[5599.10 --> 5602.10] And then lastly if you would like prayer this morning -[5602.10 --> 5605.10] There is someone who is available -[5605.10 --> 5606.10] They're wearing a name tag -[5606.10 --> 5607.10] It has a yellow box on it -[5607.10 --> 5609.10] They would love to pray with you -[5609.10 --> 5612.10] One of them for sure will be up here following the service -[5612.10 --> 5617.10] And so we invite you to grab them for prayer there -[5617.10 --> 5623.10] As we go this week go with the blessing of our God -[5623.10 --> 5628.10] The Lord bless you and keep you -[5628.10 --> 5631.10] The Lord make his face to shine upon you -[5631.10 --> 5634.10] And be gracious to you -[5634.10 --> 5637.10] The Lord turn his face toward you -[5637.10 --> 5640.10] And give you his peace -[5640.10 --> 5642.10] Amen -[5642.10 --> 5645.10] We receive your blessing we receive your praise -[5645.10 --> 5648.10] As we walk in the light shining -[5648.10 --> 5653.10] shining from your face -[5653.10 --> 5677.18] we receive your blessing we receive your grace as we walk in the light shining from your face -[5677.18 --> 5689.02] may the peace that you give change the way that you live we receive your blessing as we leave this place -[5693.74 --> 5704.70] we receive your blessing we receive your grace as we walk in the light shining from your face -[5704.70 --> 5716.54] may the peace that you give change the way that we live we receive your blessing as we leave this place -[5721.26 --> 5731.42] praise god from whom all blessings flow praise him all creatures here below -[5731.42 --> 5740.94] erne thank you -[5740.94 --> 5759.66] holy ghost -[5770.94 --> 5781.26] we receive your grace as we walk in the light shining from your face may the peace that you -[5781.26 --> 5795.26] give change the way that we live we receive your blessing as we leave this place -[5800.94 --> 5800.96] you -[5830.94 --> 5860.92] Thank you. -[5860.94 --> 5890.92] Thank you. -[5890.94 --> 5920.92] Thank you. -[5920.94 --> 5922.94] Thank you. -[5950.94 --> 5952.94] Thank you. -[5980.94 --> 5982.94] Thank you. -[6010.94 --> 6012.94] Thank you. -[6040.94 --> 6042.94] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - March 6, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - March 6, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 53747054c0787ee7c6f59fef42c4840e5f799fd7..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - March 6, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,161 +0,0 @@ -• Praising God through suffering and trials -• Worshiping despite darkness and adversity -• Recognizing God's worthiness and goodness in all circumstances -• Understanding God as a perfect, loving father who provides for needs -• Celebrating God's love and faithfulness despite searching for answers elsewhere -• Expressing awe and gratitude for God's nature and character -• Announcements of church events and activities (Coldest Night of the Year event and support for Ukraine) -• Introduction to worship by Pastor Chris -• Gathering of church community in prayer and encouragement -• Youth Coffee and 2020 following worship service -• Young Adults Board Games Night at 7 p.m. -• Mexico dinner event and fundraising efforts -• Commissioning service for trip next Sunday -• Ash Wednesday event and Lent season focus on God's presence -• Scripture reading from 1 Peter 1:3-4 -• Worship service expressing need as entering into God's presence -• Worship and praise to the Father, Son, and Spirit -• The resurrection of Jesus Christ -• Confession of sins and prayer for forgiveness -• The sacrifice of Jesus Christ as atonement for sin -• Assurance of God's love and compassion despite failure and sin -• The speaker talks about the beginning of Lent and moving towards the cross and the light of the gospel. -• The hope in life and death is Christ alone. -• The love of Christ is what keeps us through trials and tribulations. -• Singing hallelujah expresses eternal hope. -• God's goodness and grace are known in his word. -• The blood of Christ redeems and holds our faith when fears arise. -• Christ stands above the stormy trial, sending waves to bring us night, but leading us to the shore of the rock of Christ. -• The second offering is for Mexico, specifically supporting Abilino's church and Jodi at the Connections Home. -• The speaker explains how they're working with two main areas: Abilino's church and Jodi at the Connections Home, a short-term missionary hosting group that also works with other groups in Mexico. -• The narrator describes the humble beginnings of Abilino's church, which initially consisted of a small congregation and a makeshift building. -• A team helped build a new house and larger area for the church services, and over time, the church grew to have 88 adult members and many children. -• The narrator discusses re-evaluating their mission strategy in Mexico, recognizing that many teams were not effectively helping Abilino's community due to a lack of expertise in building and construction. -• A five-year plan was developed to teach Abilino's team how to build using wood framing, with the goal of making short-term missions trips more effective and sustainable. -• The team is working with key individuals at Abilino who have experience with wood framing but need additional confidence and training. -• One team has already completed a project, building a secondary soup kitchen in a different location, and an original member of the church is now leading it. -• Building a church and homeless shelter in Mexico -• Teaching locals how to build and self-sufficiency -• Critique of other organizations' building methods (YWAM) and preference for teaching sustainable construction practices -• Five-year plan to train local church members to do their own builds -• Long-term goal of establishing relationships between churches and reducing dependence on outside groups -• Upcoming trip to Mexico will focus on community outreach, relationship-building, and small building projects -• The current state of the world, particularly in Ukraine -• A song about God being the Ancient of Days and reigning over all -• A discussion with children about their day, sunshine, and plans for outdoor activities -• A reference to a previous story about Jesus feeding 5,000 people with bread and fish -• An estimate of the number of people in attendance at the church -• The concept of treasure hunts and treasure chests -• Discussion of a treasure hunt as part of children's worship time -• Explanation that Jesus came to save us from our sins -• Introduction of a treasure map found in the back room, which appears to be a crude drawing of the church -• Activity where participants will follow the map to find the "treasure" -• Announcements for upcoming events: Matt and Nicole's wedding, the Lord's Supper, and prayer requests for Herman Weaver's family -• Church family prayer led by Ken, an elder at Emanuel Church -• Prayers for mourners and families who have lost loved ones -• Blessings on upcoming wedding of Matt and Nicole -• Prayers for Ukraine situation, including ceasefire and safety for civilians -• Support for refugees and those helping them -• Gratitude for peace and freedoms in Canada and prayer against complacency -• Prayers for church ministry and the Mexico missions trip -• Safety and effectiveness of mission team -• Prayers for church body and denomination, including upcoming classist meeting -• Healing and restoration from pandemic and flooding impacts -• Patience during recovery times -• Reflection on Lord's Supper and sacrifice of Jesus Christ -• Support for those struggling with increased cost of living -• Trust in God and seeking to help others -• The speaker discusses how people's views on life are shaped by their worldview or social imaginary. -• Different worldviews can lead to various answers to the question "what is life supposed to look like". -• The traditional Jewish and Judeo-Christian answer to this question is presented through the reading of the Ten Commandments in Exodus 19-20. -• The speaker will provide a 30,000 foot view of what it means to live life with God for the glory of God. -• The voice of God answers Moses from the top of Mount Sinai -• God warns Moses not to let the people force their way through to see Him or they will perish -• Aaron is called up with Moses to meet God on the mountain -• God gives Moses the Ten Commandments -• The commandments include: - • Worship only one God - • Do not make idols - • Do not misuse God's name - • Remember and observe the Sabbath - • Honor parents - • Do not murder, commit adultery, steal, or give false testimony - • Do not covet anything that belongs to others -• The people are afraid of God's presence on Mount Sinai -• God speaks to Moses and the people, but they are afraid -• Moses reassures them that God has come to test them and instill fear of God in them -• The people remain at a distance while Moses approaches God's presence -• Introduction to theology class, focusing on biblical and systematic theology -• Discussion of the ten commandments and their significance in Western culture -• Exploration of different perspectives on the ten commandments: as a path to heaven, as good recommendations, or as outdated and oppressive -• discussion of ex-evangelical stories and deconversion -• critique of Christianity as a system that wields morality as a weapon and has been tied to colonialism and power abuse -• need for repentance and mindfulness of power and privilege -• question of the role of the Ten Commandments in defining life, specifically for Christians and non-Christians -• discussion of how to approach or understand the Ten Commandments -• The importance of a framework for understanding when interpreting the Bible -• Everyone uses a framework or lens to read the Bible, even if they don't recognize it -• The issue of interpretation and hermeneutics in theology -• Jesus' teaching on cutting out sinful parts of one's body (Matthew 5:29-30) illustrates that everyone has a hermeneutic, whether they acknowledge it or not -• Examples from the New Testament show that even apostles like Paul had frameworks for understanding and interpreting Scripture -• A shared framework is necessary when approaching complex texts like the Ten Commandments -• The speaker discusses the interpretation of the Ten Commandments, specifically the prohibition against making images. -• The discussion centers around whether this commandment prohibits creating images of God or other gods. -• The speaker questions if it's acceptable to have pictures of Jesus in children's Bibles or on felt boards during Sunday school. -• They also explore what constitutes "work" and whether certain activities, such as playing sports or games, are permitted on Sundays. -• The speaker emphasizes the importance of interpreting the Old Testament commandments through a New Testament lens. -• Discussion of the command to not murder and its inclusion of hatred towards one's brother or sister -• Examination of Jesus' teachings on the Sabbath, particularly in relation to Exodus 20 and Hebrews -• Analysis of the Ten Commandments as a framework for understanding how to approach and apply God's law -• Question of who the Ten Commandments are really about (humans) and for whom they are given -• The Belgic Confession as a statement of faith -• Means of knowing God: creation and the holy word -• Bible as a revelation of who God is -• Ten Commandments reflect God's nature, not just human conduct -• Commandments reveal what God is like, not just what humans must do -• The importance of understanding who God is as a foundation for understanding the Ten Commandments -• How the Ten Commandments impact or guide Christian living -• Practical implications and scope of each commandment, including their potential to cause division within Christian families and circles -• Hermeneutics (interpretation) and its role in determining how the Ten Commandments are applied in everyday life -• The introduction to the law through God's identity as Yahweh and the Lord -• The context of God's redemption plan for Israel and humanity -• The Exodus from Egypt as a microcosm of God's grand redemption plan -• The battle between God and Satan/Sin as represented by the Exodus story -• The parallel between God's deliverance of Israel and Jesus' deliverance from slavery to sin through faith. -• The law is not a means of establishing or maintaining a relationship with God, but rather a response to God's gracious actions and choice. -• This understanding is evident in the Bible, particularly in Exodus 20 and Acts, where it is clear that Israel's relationship with God began with his gracious actions and choice, not through obedience to the law. -• Similarly, for believers today, the law is an act of responding to God's choice and selection, rather than a means of establishing or maintaining a relationship with him. -• The law is created and given in grace, based on God's saving work -• The law reflects the character of the one who has saved us and guides us to holy living -• Following God's rule of life leads to becoming who He set us apart to be by His grace through faith -• Jesus lived a life we should have lived, and died the death we deserve, making it possible for us to live in gratitude -• The law that once condemned us is now the rule of our thanksgiving -• The Heidelberg Catechism summarizes Bible teachings on the Ten Commandments and good works in response to God's benefits -• The importance of living a godly life to win over neighbors to Christ -• Why Christians submit to the Ten Commandments and reflect God's heart and nature -• The hope that comes from bearing fruits of faith and being used by God to reveal Himself -• Understanding the law for Christians, particularly in relation to the first three commandments -• Recognizing how others misuse the name of God and whether it is a reason for offense or correction -• The concept of salvation by grace and its relation to sin and law -• The idea that the elect or chosen receive God's favor and are able to increase their trespasses -• The importance of understanding the Ten Commandments and Christian teachings in relation to how believers use the name of God and hold each other accountable -• Expecting unbelievers to keep the law blurs the line between God's people and those who aren't -• Holding oneself to a high standard of gratitude through following the law is key to avoiding moral crises and keeping people connected to the church -• The ability to hold oneself to a high moral standard is only possible through grace and faith. -• The Holy Spirit enables believers to live obediently despite the impossibility of doing so on their own. -• Living in response to God's grace and gratitude can be puzzling or incomprehensible to non-believers, but it is also compelling. -• A life lived in accordance with Christian values, including Sabbath rest and sexual purity, is beautiful but mysterious. -• True obedience is not about obeying rules, but about living because of Jesus' enabling power through grace. -• Praying for hearts and lives to be transformed -• Seeking the power of God's Spirit to live with thanksgiving and gratitude -• Asking to be filled with the fruit of the Spirit, making their lives compelling to others -• Committing to God's design and intent for their life -• Recognizing salvation is by grace through faith, not morality or works -• Asking God to use them to show Himself to the world -• Worshiping Christ as the perfect Son of man who took on flesh to ransom humanity -• Singing about Christ's redemption, love, and power -• Praying for God's presence and blessing in their lives -• Prayer for God's blessing and protection -• Praise and thanksgiving to God -• Invocation of God's favor on individuals and their families -• Expression of gratitude to God for his presence and goodness in all circumstances \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - March 6, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - March 6, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 20deb5871c4ad17b638995f8def30d1bf9d82e5e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - March 6, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2745 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.80] This night it won't burn out -[2.80 --> 7.00] For you are perfect -[7.00 --> 11.00] No matter what -[11.00 --> 14.66] In the joy of the suffering -[14.66 --> 17.46] I sing it loud -[17.46 --> 22.44] I will praise you through the fire -[22.44 --> 25.66] Through the storm and through the flood -[25.66 --> 29.76] There is nothing that could ever steal -[29.76 --> 31.98] My soul -[31.98 --> 34.96] In the valley -[34.96 --> 36.76] You are worthy -[36.76 --> 39.96] You are good when life is not -[39.96 --> 46.14] You will always and forever be my soul -[46.14 --> 50.56] When the enemy says I'm done -[50.56 --> 52.92] I'll lift my praises -[52.92 --> 57.60] When my world comes crashing down -[57.60 --> 61.48] I'll lift my praises high -[61.48 --> 64.68] Till the darkness turns to dawn -[64.68 --> 67.80] I'll lift my praises -[67.80 --> 70.70] I choose to worship -[70.70 --> 74.58] I choose you now -[74.58 --> 75.90] I choose you now -[75.90 --> 78.90] When the enemy says I'm done -[78.90 --> 81.90] I'll lift my praises -[81.90 --> 86.08] When my world comes crashing down -[86.08 --> 90.08] I'll lift my praises high -[90.08 --> 92.90] Till the darkness turns to dawn -[92.90 --> 95.90] I'll lift my praises -[95.90 --> 98.78] I choose to worship -[98.78 --> 101.10] I choose you now -[101.10 --> 107.10] I will praise you through the fire -[107.10 --> 110.10] Through the storm and through the flood -[110.10 --> 116.06] There is nothing that could ever steal my soul -[116.06 --> 118.94] In the valley -[118.94 --> 119.94] In the valley -[119.94 --> 120.94] You are worthy -[120.94 --> 124.94] You are good when life is not -[124.94 --> 131.28] You will always and forever be my soul -[131.28 --> 135.16] When the enemy says I'm done -[135.16 --> 137.16] I'll lift my praises -[137.16 --> 138.16] When the enemy says I'm done -[138.16 --> 139.16] I'll lift my praises -[139.16 --> 141.16] When the world comes crashing down -[141.16 --> 143.16] I'll lift my praises -[143.16 --> 144.16] Oh -[144.16 --> 145.16] Till the darkness turns to dawn -[145.16 --> 150.04] Till the darkness turns to dawn -[150.04 --> 153.04] I'll lift my praises -[153.04 --> 156.04] I choose to worship -[156.04 --> 159.78] I choose you now -[159.78 --> 163.28] I choose you now -[175.16 --> 185.34] To will please -[185.34 --> 185.58] Oh -[185.58 --> 185.76] Oh -[185.76 --> 194.98] I've heard a thousand stories of what they think you're like -[194.98 --> 201.88] But I've heard the tender whisper of love -[201.88 --> 213.62] The dead of night and you tell me that you're pleased and that I'm never alone. -[215.50 --> 218.62] You're a good, good father. -[219.10 --> 220.72] It's who you are. -[221.40 --> 223.06] It's who you are. -[223.60 --> 225.88] It's who you are. -[225.94 --> 228.50] And I'm loved by you. -[228.50 --> 230.50] It's who I am. -[230.50 --> 233.16] It's who I am. -[233.80 --> 236.58] It's who I am. -[239.20 --> 249.56] Oh, and I've seen many searching for answers far and wide. -[249.56 --> 256.64] But I know we're all searching for answers. -[256.64 --> 268.06] Only you provide cause you know just what we need before we say a word. -[268.14 --> 270.80] You're a good, good father. -[270.80 --> 272.80] It's who you are. -[272.80 --> 274.80] It's who you are. -[274.80 --> 276.80] It's who you are. -[276.80 --> 280.50] And I'm loved by you. -[280.50 --> 282.64] It's who I am. -[282.64 --> 285.18] It's who I am. -[285.18 --> 287.18] It's who I am. -[287.18 --> 288.34] It's who I am. -[288.34 --> 293.34] Because you are perfect in all of your ways. -[293.34 --> 298.42] You are perfect in all of your ways. -[298.42 --> 303.14] You are perfect in all of your ways. -[303.14 --> 307.22] To us. -[307.22 --> 321.22] Oh, it's love so undeniable. -[321.22 --> 338.98] I can hardly speak. -[338.98 --> 344.98] Peace so unexplainable lie. -[344.98 --> 350.98] I can hardly think as you call me. -[350.98 --> 380.96] Deeper still as you call me. -[380.96 --> 410.94] It's who I am. -[410.96 --> 440.94] It's who you are. -[440.96 --> 470.94] It's who I am. -[470.96 --> 500.94] It's who I am. -[500.96 --> 530.94] It's who I am. -[530.94 --> 560.92] It's who I am. -[560.92 --> 590.90] It's who I am. -[590.90 --> 620.88] It's who I am. -[620.88 --> 650.86] It's who I am. -[651.52 --> 653.86] Welcome to worship. -[654.18 --> 655.04] My name is Chris. -[655.24 --> 662.08] I'm one of the pastors here and it's our privilege to lead you and worship with you this morning. -[662.74 --> 666.46] Before we begin in earnest, there are a couple announcements that need to be made. -[666.46 --> 681.28] And so, as Josh and Brandon are coming up to this microphone here, I just wanted to say quickly thank you to everyone who participated in last weekend's Coldest Night of the Year event. -[681.28 --> 683.28] We raised almost $1,000. -[711.28 --> 713.28] And I want to thank you for the church. -[713.28 --> 715.28] And I want to thank you for the church. -[715.28 --> 716.28] And I want to thank you for the church. -[716.28 --> 727.12] Yesterday, as Christians and community members gathered together in support of citizens of Ukraine in the conflict with the Russian forces there. -[727.12 --> 729.12] It was good to see members of the church community. -[729.12 --> 733.40] It was good to see members of the church community gather together in prayer and encouragement for that. -[733.46 --> 734.92] And it was good to be part of that. -[735.00 --> 737.00] And so, for those of you who came, thank you. -[737.00 --> 742.24] And I think there's going to be some pictures of that and stuff on our social media as well. -[742.32 --> 743.82] So, you can connect into that. -[744.88 --> 753.54] And then, finally, for me, just a quick reminder that immediately following our worship this morning, there is Youth Coffee and 2020. -[754.14 --> 755.64] You'll hear more from Kevin about that later. -[755.68 --> 757.52] But that's immediately following our service. -[757.66 --> 758.58] And so, be ready for that. -[763.08 --> 763.56] Hello. -[763.56 --> 767.98] Tonight, at 7 p.m., is the Young Adults Board Games Night. -[769.32 --> 771.36] We're shaking out young adults a little bit. -[772.06 --> 776.14] At the first Sunday of every month, we're having an event at the church. -[777.60 --> 780.84] Starting March, going every other month, is Board Games Night. -[781.38 --> 786.64] And April, every other month, starting with April every other month, is Potluck. -[787.22 --> 789.58] So, if you want to chill, hang out. -[789.58 --> 793.60] I realize that a lot of young adults are really busy today with Mexico and youth leading. -[794.18 --> 794.74] That's okay. -[795.08 --> 796.94] You guys don't have to go if you don't want to. -[797.30 --> 798.40] But it's chill. -[799.58 --> 800.94] Just hang out with some friends. -[801.56 --> 801.92] Drinks. -[802.76 --> 804.80] By that, I mean non-alcoholic, if that was ever. -[805.54 --> 805.96] And, yeah. -[807.42 --> 807.64] Woo! -[807.64 --> 815.96] I just wanted to do a quick thank you to everybody that came out last night to the Mexico dinner. -[816.56 --> 817.76] I thought it was a lot of fun. -[817.90 --> 821.66] It was good to see you guys and just share a meal with you guys as well and be able to hang out. -[822.34 --> 823.42] We've fundraised quite a bit. -[823.64 --> 829.16] So, it was actually very comparable to other years, despite the short notice, which thank you guys for giving. -[829.16 --> 831.42] And kind of putting your faith in us with that trip. -[832.06 --> 836.00] The other announcement I got is the commissioning service for our trip is next Sunday. -[836.00 --> 839.20] So, that will be the send-off for us as we're leaving the day after. -[839.64 --> 842.36] And just appreciate you all being there for that as well. -[842.62 --> 843.52] So, thank you. -[848.40 --> 848.84] Okay. -[849.00 --> 858.82] As some of you may be aware, if you participated in our Ash Wednesday event here, Imposition of the Ashes, or not. -[858.90 --> 861.62] But today is the first Sunday of Lent. -[861.62 --> 872.48] Lent is the season that leads us into Holy Week with Good Friday and then Easter Sunday, culminating in the resurrection of Jesus. -[872.70 --> 880.46] Lent is a time and a season for us to focus our hearts on all that God has done to draw us to himself. -[881.30 --> 888.78] And so, our worship this morning is going to have that particular focus of expressing our need as we enter into the presence of God. -[888.78 --> 896.42] And I'm going to name that here and now because as you stand, if you are able and where you are to be greeted by God, -[896.58 --> 902.20] this is the season where God draws us to himself powerfully. -[902.20 --> 907.52] And so, know that when we receive God's greeting, that is him saying, -[907.72 --> 913.58] Come to me, all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. -[913.90 --> 916.10] So, as you are able and where you are, would you stand? -[916.68 --> 922.52] We could enter into our Lenten worship together as God greets us in his name. -[922.52 --> 933.94] Brothers and sisters of our Lord Jesus Christ, grace, mercy, and peace to you this Lent season. -[934.94 --> 941.76] From God our Father, from Jesus Christ his Son, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[943.10 --> 943.46] Amen. -[943.46 --> 943.54] Amen. -[943.54 --> 953.76] 1 Peter 1, verse 3 and 4 say, -[954.76 --> 958.32] All praise to God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. -[958.94 --> 963.40] It is by his great mercy that we have been born again, -[964.06 --> 967.40] because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. -[967.40 --> 970.76] Now we live in great expectation, -[971.24 --> 974.02] and we have a priceless inheritance, -[974.64 --> 977.84] an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, -[979.04 --> 980.64] pure and undefiled, -[981.38 --> 983.82] beyond the reach of change and decay. -[983.82 --> 998.52] In the darkness we were waiting, -[999.00 --> 1000.32] without hope, -[1000.76 --> 1002.30] without light, -[1002.30 --> 1005.66] till from heaven you came running, -[1005.98 --> 1009.64] there was mercy in your eyes, -[1009.64 --> 1013.18] to fulfill the law and prophets, -[1013.60 --> 1016.86] to a virgin came the word, -[1017.20 --> 1020.38] from a throne of endless glory, -[1020.92 --> 1024.00] to a cradle in the dirt. -[1030.48 --> 1033.60] Praise the Father, -[1033.60 --> 1037.28] Praise the Son, -[1037.28 --> 1041.28] Praise the Spirit, -[1041.28 --> 1044.96] Three in one, -[1044.96 --> 1048.60] God of glory, -[1049.24 --> 1051.68] Majestice, -[1051.68 --> 1059.88] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[1059.88 --> 1067.66] To reveal the kingdom coming, -[1067.66 --> 1071.48] and to reconcile the lost, -[1071.80 --> 1074.86] to redeem the whole creation, -[1075.40 --> 1078.74] you did not despise the cross, -[1079.06 --> 1082.20] for even in your suffering, -[1082.66 --> 1085.90] you saw to the other side, -[1086.34 --> 1089.32] knowing this was our salvation, -[1089.32 --> 1090.44] Jesus, -[1090.44 --> 1090.46] Jesus, -[1090.46 --> 1090.48] Jesus, -[1090.66 --> 1093.06] for our sake you died. -[1099.06 --> 1102.56] Praise the Father, -[1103.28 --> 1106.34] Praise the Son, -[1107.00 --> 1109.88] Praise the Spirit, -[1110.68 --> 1113.38] Three in one, -[1113.38 --> 1117.22] God of glory, -[1117.22 --> 1118.90] majesty, -[1118.90 --> 1119.84] majesty, -[1119.84 --> 1127.96] praise forever to the King of kings. -[1127.96 --> 1128.44] Amen. -[1132.44 --> 1136.38] And the morning that you rose, -[1136.76 --> 1140.24] all of heaven held its breath, -[1140.60 --> 1143.76] till that stone was moved for good, -[1143.76 --> 1147.50] for the Lamb had conquered death, -[1147.50 --> 1150.88] and the dead rose from their tombs, -[1151.24 --> 1154.50] and the angels stood in awe, -[1154.50 --> 1157.94] for the souls of all who come, -[1158.38 --> 1161.06] to the Father are restored, -[1162.06 --> 1164.98] and the church of Christ was born, -[1165.38 --> 1168.50] and the Spirit with the flame, -[1168.50 --> 1171.88] now this gospel truth of all, -[1171.88 --> 1173.76] shall not be in, -[1173.98 --> 1175.62] shall not face, -[1175.62 --> 1178.88] by His blood and in His name, -[1179.28 --> 1182.28] in His freedom I am free, -[1182.80 --> 1185.82] for the love of Jesus Christ, -[1186.24 --> 1189.24] who has resurrected me. -[1189.24 --> 1198.36] praise the Father, -[1198.36 --> 1201.72] praise the Son, -[1201.72 --> 1205.18] praise the Spirit, -[1205.18 --> 1208.54] three in one, -[1208.54 --> 1212.36] God of glory, -[1212.36 --> 1214.62] majesty, -[1214.62 --> 1222.68] praise forever to the King of kings. -[1222.68 --> 1231.24] praise forever to the King of kings. -[1231.24 --> 1241.38] As we worship together this first Sunday of Lent, -[1241.94 --> 1245.50] let us bring to mind the things that distract us from worship, -[1245.82 --> 1247.30] and relationship to God. -[1248.24 --> 1250.68] Let's pray this prayer of confession together, -[1251.18 --> 1254.72] confessing our sins in the sure promises of forgiveness. -[1254.72 --> 1258.44] Almighty God, -[1258.94 --> 1260.72] in Jesus Christ, -[1260.86 --> 1261.72] you love us, -[1262.12 --> 1263.86] but we have not loved you. -[1264.78 --> 1267.26] You have opened your heart to us, -[1267.64 --> 1269.12] and in our pride, -[1269.36 --> 1270.64] we have spurned your care. -[1271.48 --> 1273.48] You have given us all things, -[1273.66 --> 1275.42] and we have squandered your gifts. -[1276.26 --> 1277.58] We have grieved you, -[1277.98 --> 1279.62] and caused hurt to others, -[1279.90 --> 1283.00] and we are not worthy to be called your children. -[1283.00 --> 1286.40] Have mercy on us, O Lord, -[1286.94 --> 1288.30] for we are ashamed, -[1289.06 --> 1292.14] and sorry for all we have done to displease you. -[1293.16 --> 1294.66] Cleanse us from our sin, -[1295.18 --> 1297.92] and receive us again into your household, -[1298.48 --> 1301.42] that we might nevermore stray from your love, -[1302.00 --> 1305.22] but always remain within the sound of your voice, -[1305.70 --> 1307.58] and near to your holy heart. -[1308.26 --> 1308.64] Amen. -[1313.00 --> 1337.40] The holy heart was broken, -[1337.40 --> 1343.34] sent from the Father's side, -[1343.34 --> 1348.34] the Son of God forsaken, -[1349.56 --> 1353.22] the holy sacrifice. -[1355.12 --> 1359.30] For me he was forsaken, -[1359.30 --> 1364.60] for me he died alone, -[1364.60 --> 1370.54] my sin forever taken, -[1370.54 --> 1376.54] that I might be his own. -[1376.54 --> 1381.54] The holy lamb was stricken, -[1382.80 --> 1386.54] abandoned and alone. -[1388.24 --> 1392.36] He bore the world's affliction, -[1392.36 --> 1398.30] He bore it as his own. -[1398.30 --> 1403.52] For me he was forsaken, -[1404.30 --> 1408.30] for me he died alone, -[1408.30 --> 1414.38] my sin forever taken, -[1414.38 --> 1419.98] that I might be his own. -[1419.98 --> 1425.92] And when my heart is broken, -[1425.92 --> 1431.92] torn by my sin and pride, -[1431.92 --> 1437.12] the Son of God now risen, -[1437.92 --> 1442.92] will draw me to his side. -[1442.92 --> 1448.86] For me he died, -[1448.86 --> 1452.86] for me he died alone. -[1452.86 --> 1454.86] For me he died alone, -[1454.86 --> 1458.86] my sin forever taken, -[1458.86 --> 1463.86] that I might be his own. -[1463.86 --> 1468.86] For me he was forsaken, -[1468.86 --> 1474.80] for me he died alone. -[1474.80 --> 1476.80] For me he died alone, -[1476.80 --> 1480.80] my sin forever taken, -[1480.80 --> 1486.80] that I might be his own. -[1486.80 --> 1492.74] For me he died alone. -[1492.74 --> 1495.04] That was close. -[1495.74 --> 1496.74] Isaiah 54, -[1496.74 --> 1498.26] 54 verse 7 and 8 say, -[1498.34 --> 1500.54] For a brief moment I abandoned you, -[1500.98 --> 1503.24] but with deep compassion I will bring you back. -[1503.74 --> 1507.10] In a surge of anger I hid my face for you for a moment, -[1507.74 --> 1511.16] but with everlasting kindness I will have compassion on you, -[1511.48 --> 1513.20] says the Lord your Redeemer. -[1513.20 --> 1517.94] As we begin the journey of Lent starting in loneliness and darkness, -[1517.94 --> 1522.30] we move toward the cross and the light of the gospel. -[1522.30 --> 1527.64] We move towards Christ, our hope in life and death. -[1527.64 --> 1543.38] Christ alone, Christ alone, -[1543.38 --> 1545.80] Christ alone, -[1545.80 --> 1550.70] What is our hope in life and death? -[1550.70 --> 1555.20] Christ alone, Christ alone, -[1555.20 --> 1560.30] What is our only confidence? -[1560.30 --> 1564.90] That our souls to him belong, -[1564.90 --> 1569.82] Who holds our days within his hand, -[1569.82 --> 1574.30] What comes apart from his command, -[1574.30 --> 1579.80] And what will keep us to the end? -[1579.80 --> 1585.70] The love of Christ in which we stand? -[1588.14 --> 1592.26] Oh, sing hallelujah, -[1592.26 --> 1597.10] Our hope springs eternal. -[1597.10 --> 1601.90] Oh, sing hallelujah, -[1601.90 --> 1606.22] Now and ever we confess, -[1606.22 --> 1610.80] Christ our hope in life and death. -[1616.64 --> 1621.90] What truth can calm the troubled soul? -[1622.68 --> 1626.78] God is good, God is good, -[1626.78 --> 1631.78] Where is his grace and goodness known? -[1631.78 --> 1636.58] In vain our great Redeemer's blood, -[1636.58 --> 1641.58] Who holds our faith when fears arise, -[1641.58 --> 1646.38] Who stands above the stormy trial, -[1646.38 --> 1651.64] Who sends the waves that bring us night, -[1651.64 --> 1658.14] Unto the shore of the rock of Christ. -[1658.14 --> 1664.10] Oh, sing hallelujah, -[1664.10 --> 1668.94] Our hope springs eternal. -[1668.94 --> 1673.68] Oh, sing hallelujah, -[1673.68 --> 1677.98] Now and ever we confess, -[1677.98 --> 1682.56] Christ our hope in life and death. -[1688.96 --> 1694.34] Unto the grave what shall we sing? -[1694.34 --> 1699.34] Christ he lives, -[1699.34 --> 1700.34] Christ he lives, -[1700.34 --> 1704.34] And what reward will heaven bring? -[1704.34 --> 1709.34] Everlasting life with him, -[1709.34 --> 1714.34] There we will rise to meet the Lord, -[1714.34 --> 1719.34] Then sin and death will be destroyed, -[1719.34 --> 1724.34] And we will feast in endless joy, -[1724.34 --> 1731.34] When Christ is ours forevermore. -[1731.34 --> 1736.34] Oh, sing hallelujah, -[1736.34 --> 1740.34] Our hope springs eternal. -[1740.34 --> 1745.34] Oh, sing hallelujah, -[1745.34 --> 1750.34] Now and ever we confess, -[1750.34 --> 1754.34] Christ our hope in life and death. -[1754.34 --> 1759.34] Oh, sing hallelujah, -[1759.34 --> 1763.34] Our hope springs eternal. -[1763.34 --> 1767.34] Oh, sing hallelujah, -[1767.34 --> 1771.34] Now and ever we confess, -[1771.34 --> 1775.34] Christ our hope in life and death. -[1775.34 --> 1778.34] Now and ever we confess, -[1778.34 --> 1784.34] Christ our hope in life and death. -[1784.34 --> 1788.34] You may have a seat. -[1788.34 --> 1809.34] That's my daughter. -[1809.34 --> 1815.34] Anyway, this morning our first collection is for the budget, -[1815.34 --> 1818.34] For the ministries of this church. -[1818.34 --> 1822.34] And I think Brandon is going to come and talk to us. -[1830.34 --> 1833.34] I promise this is probably the last time you'll hear from me. -[1833.34 --> 1834.34] Hopefully. -[1834.34 --> 1835.34] So no, yeah, -[1835.34 --> 1837.34] The second offering is for Mexico, -[1837.34 --> 1839.34] For our trip again this year. -[1839.34 --> 1843.34] And I guess we just kind of want to go over what your guys' money actually goes to, -[1843.34 --> 1846.34] What you guys are supporting there and some of the history of it, I guess. -[1846.34 --> 1848.34] So when we go down to Mexico, -[1848.34 --> 1851.34] We support kind of two main people. -[1851.34 --> 1854.34] One is Abilino's church and one is Jodi. -[1854.34 --> 1856.34] I don't know if Jodi's here right now. -[1856.34 --> 1858.34] Yeah, she's waving right there. -[1858.34 --> 1859.34] So we, -[1859.34 --> 1861.34] Those are the two main areas we focus on now, -[1861.34 --> 1864.34] Who we're supporting and who we work with and everything like that. -[1864.34 --> 1866.34] So Jodi now actually works at the connections home, -[1866.34 --> 1868.34] Which is a new place we're now going to be staying at. -[1868.34 --> 1872.34] It's a short term missionary kind of hosting group. -[1872.34 --> 1879.34] Plus they work with a lot of different groups and people in Mexico themselves and support them as well. -[1879.34 --> 1882.34] So Jodi's working there as well as at their house. -[1882.34 --> 1883.34] They are running a men's, -[1883.34 --> 1884.34] It's a men's rehab, -[1884.34 --> 1886.34] But it's kind of like a halfway house as well. -[1886.34 --> 1887.34] Where they kind of, -[1887.34 --> 1889.34] When you get out of rehab in Mexico, -[1889.34 --> 1891.34] You're kind of just dumped on the street. -[1891.34 --> 1892.34] You have nowhere to really go, -[1892.34 --> 1893.34] Nobody to support you. -[1893.34 --> 1895.34] And usually you relapse. -[1895.34 --> 1898.34] It's not like in Canada where there's a secondary place you can go to, -[1898.34 --> 1902.34] To actually kind of continue your recovery and kind of get back into the swing of life. -[1902.34 --> 1904.34] So they're running one there for men. -[1904.34 --> 1906.34] And we'll be supporting them with that as well. -[1906.34 --> 1910.34] And visiting and just kind of getting to know that whole side of it. -[1910.34 --> 1914.34] Abilino, the history with him is 11 years ago, I believe it is now. -[1914.34 --> 1916.34] When I was living down in Mexico, -[1916.34 --> 1919.34] I met him through the Mexican family I was living with down there. -[1919.34 --> 1923.34] And we kind of started supporting him through that. -[1923.34 --> 1925.34] Abilino, first when I met him, -[1925.34 --> 1927.34] His house slash church, -[1927.34 --> 1928.34] It was all operated in the same way. -[1928.34 --> 1930.34] But he was going to school to become a pastor. -[1930.34 --> 1931.34] And he was, -[1931.34 --> 1933.34] He had a small congregation of six people. -[1933.34 --> 1935.34] And their church and house was probably the size, -[1935.34 --> 1937.34] If you take piano to the wall there, -[1937.34 --> 1939.34] And just the size of the drums really. -[1939.34 --> 1940.34] That was their church. -[1940.34 --> 1943.34] And we know one wall was a garage door that you'd be pushed on, -[1943.34 --> 1945.34] It collapsed and the other wall was a tarp. -[1945.34 --> 1948.34] And the entrance was kind of a piece of rotten plywood. -[1948.34 --> 1950.34] So that's what they started with when I started working there. -[1950.34 --> 1952.34] So when our team went down, -[1952.34 --> 1953.34] We, -[1953.34 --> 1954.34] They, -[1954.34 --> 1956.34] Our team came down to meet me while I was living there with Brad Koonst. -[1956.34 --> 1959.34] And the first thing we kind of did with them is we built them a house. -[1959.34 --> 1961.34] And just a bigger area to actually have their services. -[1961.34 --> 1963.34] And then over the next 11 years, -[1963.34 --> 1965.34] A couple other teams have kind of partnered with us, -[1965.34 --> 1966.34] Partnered with Abilino. -[1966.34 --> 1968.34] And we built them a new church now. -[1968.34 --> 1972.34] Where his congregation has now gone from six people to 88, -[1972.34 --> 1974.34] 88 actual adult members. -[1974.34 --> 1975.34] Plus all the children. -[1975.34 --> 1977.34] So it's grown huge. -[1977.34 --> 1978.34] And then as well, -[1978.34 --> 1979.34] We've kind of just, -[1979.34 --> 1982.34] We re-evaluated three years ago. -[1982.34 --> 1984.34] The missions committee went down with me. -[1984.34 --> 1985.34] And we, -[1985.34 --> 1986.34] We met with Abilino. -[1986.34 --> 1987.34] And we met with everybody. -[1987.34 --> 1988.34] And just kind of decided like, -[1988.34 --> 1990.34] We've always, -[1990.34 --> 1992.34] We've obviously had issues with people in Mexico before. -[1992.34 --> 1994.34] With ministries and things we found that like, -[1994.34 --> 1995.34] Okay, this actually isn't helping anybody. -[1995.34 --> 1997.34] So we wanted to re-evaluate that. -[1997.34 --> 1999.34] And we re-evaluated that with Abilino. -[1999.34 --> 2002.34] And we kind of came up with a five year plan to better help them. -[2002.34 --> 2004.34] As well as just kind of, -[2004.34 --> 2006.34] Kind of have not, -[2006.34 --> 2008.34] End goal is the wrong word for it. -[2008.34 --> 2010.34] But like have a purpose for our own trips as well. -[2010.34 --> 2012.34] That spans past just year to year. -[2012.34 --> 2013.34] So we kind of met with them. -[2013.34 --> 2015.34] We kind of decided the big one was, -[2015.34 --> 2018.34] There's always lots of teams willing to support people in Mexico. -[2018.34 --> 2020.34] But nobody down there actually knows how to build a house. -[2020.34 --> 2022.34] Or build a church. -[2022.34 --> 2023.34] Or build anything. -[2023.34 --> 2024.34] Right? -[2024.34 --> 2026.34] They, they're all used to concrete building. -[2026.34 --> 2028.34] Concrete building is inefficient in Mexico. -[2028.34 --> 2029.34] Takes years. -[2029.34 --> 2030.34] It's expensive. -[2030.34 --> 2032.34] And it's just not feasible for a short term missions team to do. -[2032.34 --> 2035.34] But a lot of teams that go down there have no experience doing it either. -[2035.34 --> 2036.34] And they have, -[2036.34 --> 2037.34] They have the money to do it. -[2037.34 --> 2041.34] But there's nobody down there with Abilino that can actually teach them how to build it. -[2041.34 --> 2042.34] Or show them how to build it. -[2042.34 --> 2044.34] And use that manpower to their, -[2044.34 --> 2045.34] To an advantage. -[2045.34 --> 2047.34] So our five year plan of course, -[2047.34 --> 2049.34] COVID took two years out of that already. -[2049.34 --> 2054.34] But we started it three years ago with building them a secondary soup kitchen. -[2054.34 --> 2056.34] As well as a garage or vehicles and things like that. -[2056.34 --> 2057.34] But we actually, -[2057.34 --> 2059.34] We work with the people in the church. -[2059.34 --> 2062.34] To teach them how to build using wood framing. -[2062.34 --> 2064.34] So we kind of go through this, -[2064.34 --> 2065.34] Like the specifics of it. -[2065.34 --> 2066.34] You know, -[2066.34 --> 2067.34] The engineering of it. -[2067.34 --> 2068.34] The strength. -[2068.34 --> 2069.34] What you can do. -[2069.34 --> 2070.34] What you really can't do. -[2070.34 --> 2072.34] Because I know in a lot of time Mexico they like to cut corners. -[2072.34 --> 2073.34] So we try to teach, -[2073.34 --> 2074.34] You know, don't do that. -[2074.34 --> 2076.34] The roof falling on your head hurts. -[2076.34 --> 2077.34] So, -[2077.34 --> 2078.34] That's kind of the plan. -[2078.34 --> 2080.34] And it's going to be over five years. -[2080.34 --> 2082.34] We have a couple of key people down there that we're working with. -[2082.34 --> 2084.34] That already have experience doing it. -[2084.34 --> 2085.34] But they just need more, -[2085.34 --> 2086.34] More confidence if anything. -[2086.34 --> 2089.34] And then we're teaching the other members of their church as well. -[2089.34 --> 2091.34] So over the next four years. -[2091.34 --> 2092.34] One year, -[2092.34 --> 2093.34] One team's already taken care of one. -[2093.34 --> 2095.34] They built them a secondary soup kitchen. -[2095.34 --> 2097.34] In a different location. -[2097.34 --> 2100.34] And then one of those original six members is now leading that soup kitchen. -[2100.34 --> 2103.34] But then we're also going to plan on building them a church. -[2103.34 --> 2104.34] A homeless shelter. -[2104.34 --> 2105.34] And in the process, -[2105.34 --> 2107.34] Those are two actually quite big builds. -[2107.34 --> 2108.34] We'll be teaching them how to build. -[2108.34 --> 2109.34] Things like that. -[2109.34 --> 2113.34] And it just kind of allowed them when that team comes down. -[2113.34 --> 2116.34] And there is a really desperate need for either a new church. -[2116.34 --> 2118.34] Because he likes to plant churches a lot too. -[2118.34 --> 2120.34] Or if there's a need for a house burns down. -[2120.34 --> 2122.34] They can build that house. -[2122.34 --> 2123.34] They can build that church. -[2123.34 --> 2125.34] And they can do it themselves as well. -[2125.34 --> 2126.34] There's a lot of other groups down there. -[2126.34 --> 2127.34] And a lot of other. -[2127.34 --> 2129.34] Like YWAM for example. -[2129.34 --> 2130.34] If you want to build a house through them. -[2130.34 --> 2132.34] Number one, it costs you 20% extra. -[2132.34 --> 2136.34] Second, all they are willing to build is a little box. -[2136.34 --> 2138.34] So you might have a family of six or seven. -[2138.34 --> 2140.34] And they get one bedroom and one little kitchen. -[2140.34 --> 2142.34] And that's all they're ever willing to build. -[2142.34 --> 2145.34] And it doesn't really suit the needs of the actual people. -[2145.34 --> 2147.34] We prefer to teach them, you know, if you have a family of four. -[2147.34 --> 2148.34] Here's two bedrooms. -[2148.34 --> 2149.34] This is how you do it. -[2149.34 --> 2150.34] If you have a family of six. -[2150.34 --> 2151.34] Here's three bedrooms. -[2151.34 --> 2152.34] This is how you do it. -[2152.34 --> 2155.34] Build to actually suit the needs of the people you're building for. -[2155.34 --> 2157.34] So you're not just building them a little box. -[2157.34 --> 2160.34] Leaving them that doesn't actually really work for them, right? -[2160.34 --> 2161.34] And also save the money. -[2161.34 --> 2166.34] Because then these other groups can do it by using Abilino's own church members to actually do the build. -[2166.34 --> 2168.34] So that's kind of the five year plan. -[2168.34 --> 2170.34] And then that way we're kind of hoping at the end of those five years. -[2170.34 --> 2172.34] Of course we're still going to go down. -[2172.34 --> 2173.34] We still like that relationship. -[2173.34 --> 2175.34] We're still going to build with them. -[2175.34 --> 2178.34] But the whole purpose will then become we don't need to be there to build. -[2178.34 --> 2179.34] We don't need to be there to do anything. -[2179.34 --> 2181.34] They can do it all themselves now. -[2181.34 --> 2184.34] And even if a need comes down and we can just take our Mexico budget and go, -[2184.34 --> 2186.34] Look, we'll fund the build. -[2186.34 --> 2188.34] We'll pay for the materials using our contacts. -[2188.34 --> 2191.34] You guys can build it in August when we can't be down there. -[2191.34 --> 2193.34] Or in November or whatever. -[2193.34 --> 2195.34] It just gives a lot more flexibility. -[2195.34 --> 2199.34] And then when something happens, it's not like they're waiting five months for us to come down to do something about it. -[2199.34 --> 2204.34] So that's kind of, that's the overarching goal of what you guys are supporting. -[2204.34 --> 2206.34] Probably a lot to take in kind of thing. -[2206.34 --> 2210.34] But that's, that's what our, our purpose is down there. -[2210.34 --> 2211.34] And what we're kind of doing down there. -[2211.34 --> 2215.34] And what as a church we've kind of agreed on to support and work on. -[2215.34 --> 2217.34] So that's about it. -[2217.34 --> 2221.34] But yeah, we'll be heading down on, for this actual trip itself, we won't actually be doing much building. -[2221.34 --> 2224.34] We'll be probably doing a couple bathrooms for the church that was already built. -[2224.34 --> 2226.34] Because those are not completed yet. -[2226.34 --> 2229.34] We'll be finishing those for the team that started those. -[2229.34 --> 2231.34] But otherwise, a lot of our youth is new. -[2231.34 --> 2233.34] A lot of them have never been before. -[2233.34 --> 2237.34] So we're kind of just working on a big part of the Mexico thing as well as just relationships. -[2237.34 --> 2243.34] We don't want to just be, you know, the white savior that builds a house and that leaves and never comes back. -[2243.34 --> 2248.34] We want an ongoing relationship, an ongoing friendship, become sister churches kind of thing, right? -[2248.34 --> 2250.34] So these youth have never been before. -[2250.34 --> 2256.34] That relationship over these last two years because of COVID, that doesn't really exist in the youth standpoint of it. -[2256.34 --> 2257.34] So we want to build that again. -[2257.34 --> 2263.34] So we'll be spending a lot of time in the community, doing community festivals, meeting with people, visiting people's houses, -[2263.34 --> 2270.34] just sitting down for dinner with them, kind of like we did at the Mexico dinner, doing youth coffee, taking their youth out for stuff, -[2270.34 --> 2272.34] things like that to build that relationship again. -[2272.34 --> 2278.34] And yeah, the building project will just be probably finishing those washrooms in whatever state that those were left in. -[2278.34 --> 2280.34] So that is all. -[2280.34 --> 2283.34] Sorry for taking up so much time, but thank you for your support. -[2283.34 --> 2284.34] We really do appreciate it. -[2284.34 --> 2286.34] And every year you guys come through for us. -[2286.34 --> 2288.34] So let's really appreciate it. -[2288.34 --> 2295.34] The song that we're going to be singing during the offering has really been on my heart this week. -[2295.34 --> 2297.34] It's called Ancient of Days. -[2297.34 --> 2303.34] And the lyrics, I think, speak very much to what's going on in the world right now, especially in the Ukraine. -[2303.34 --> 2306.34] So please listen and join in when you're comfortable. -[2306.34 --> 2326.34] The song that we're going to be singing during the offering is beautiful. -[2326.34 --> 2335.82] Though the nations rage, kingdoms rise and fall, -[2335.82 --> 2345.66] there is still one King reigning over all. -[2345.94 --> 2355.62] So I will not fear, for this truth remains. -[2355.62 --> 2364.42] That my God is the Ancient of Days. -[2365.76 --> 2375.50] None above Him, none before Him, all of time in His hands. -[2375.50 --> 2383.62] For His throne it shall remain and ever stand. -[2383.62 --> 2394.42] All the power, all the glory, I will trust in His name. -[2394.42 --> 2403.52] For my God is the Ancient of Days. -[2403.52 --> 2418.82] Though the dread of night overwhelms my soul, He is here with me. -[2418.82 --> 2428.50] I am not alone, though His love is sure. -[2428.50 --> 2433.50] And He knows my name. -[2433.50 --> 2441.30] For my God is the Ancient of Days. -[2441.30 --> 2453.10] None above Him, none before Him, all of time in His hands. -[2453.10 --> 2461.10] For His throne it shall remain and ever stand. -[2461.10 --> 2471.90] All the power, all the glory, I will trust in His name. -[2471.90 --> 2479.70] For my God is the Ancient of Days. -[2479.70 --> 2485.26] Please stand as we sing the rest of this song. -[2485.26 --> 2505.36] Though I may not see what the future brings, -[2505.36 --> 2515.36] I will watch and wait for the Savior King. -[2515.36 --> 2525.36] Then my joy complete, standing face to face, -[2525.36 --> 2526.36] God is the Ancient of Days. -[2526.36 --> 2535.36] In the presence of the Ancient of Days. -[2535.36 --> 2544.36] None above Him, none before Him, all of time in His hands. -[2544.36 --> 2550.36] For His throne it shall remain and ever stand. -[2550.36 --> 2563.36] All the power, all the glory, I will trust in His name. -[2563.36 --> 2572.36] For my God is the Ancient of Days. -[2572.36 --> 2584.36] For my God is the Ancient of Days. -[2584.36 --> 2585.36] May we have a seat. -[2585.36 --> 2586.36] God. -[2586.36 --> 2587.36] God. -[2587.36 --> 2588.36] God. -[2588.36 --> 2589.36] God. -[2589.36 --> 2590.36] God. -[2590.36 --> 2592.36] God. -[2592.36 --> 2593.36] God. -[2593.36 --> 2594.36] God. -[2594.36 --> 2595.36] God. -[2595.36 --> 2596.36] God. -[2596.36 --> 2597.36] God. -[2597.36 --> 2598.36] God. -[2598.36 --> 2599.36] God. -[2599.36 --> 2600.36] God. -[2600.36 --> 2601.36] God. -[2601.36 --> 2602.36] God. -[2602.36 --> 2603.36] God. -[2603.36 --> 2604.36] God. -[2604.36 --> 2605.36] God. -[2605.36 --> 2607.36] God. -[2607.36 --> 2608.36] God. -[2608.36 --> 2609.36] God. -[2609.36 --> 2610.36] God. -[2610.36 --> 2611.36] God. -[2611.36 --> 2612.36] God. -[2612.36 --> 2613.36] God. -[2613.36 --> 2615.36] God. -[2615.36 --> 2617.36] God. -[2619.36 --> 2620.36] God. -[2620.36 --> 2621.36] God. -[2621.36 --> 2622.36] God. -[2622.36 --> 2623.36] God. -[2623.36 --> 2624.36] God. -[2624.36 --> 2625.36] God. -[2625.36 --> 2626.36] God. -[2626.36 --> 2627.36] God. -[2627.36 --> 2628.20] God. -[2628.20 --> 2629.36] God. -[2629.36 --> 2630.22] God. -[2630.22 --> 2631.16] God. -[2631.16 --> 2632.22] God. -[2632.22 --> 2634.76] Alright, how's all the kids doing? How are you guys doing? Yeah? -[2635.84 --> 2640.44] When you woke up this morning and saw the sunshine out there, was that like, this is going to be a great day? -[2641.00 --> 2642.58] Yeah? Are you going to play outside lots? -[2643.58 --> 2650.42] How many of you guys are going to be forced to go on a walk or a hike today by your parents? -[2652.44 --> 2652.84] Yeah? -[2654.42 --> 2654.78] Right. -[2656.94 --> 2658.58] Probably going to be doing that today, aren't you? -[2658.58 --> 2665.40] Last week, I couldn't be here, but I heard you guys did a story about a miracle that Jesus did. -[2665.48 --> 2667.54] Does anybody know or remember what that one was about? -[2668.22 --> 2668.76] What was it? -[2671.24 --> 2677.34] The bread and the, Jesus broke bread and, or had some bread and did what with it? -[2681.36 --> 2683.80] Fish and bread to about 5,000 people. -[2683.88 --> 2685.74] How many people do you think are in the church here today? -[2685.80 --> 2686.26] What do we think? -[2686.26 --> 2688.06] About 200? -[2688.44 --> 2689.60] Maybe, let's say 500. -[2689.76 --> 2692.08] That would be like 10 times as many people here. -[2692.16 --> 2693.42] That's pretty amazing, isn't it? -[2694.58 --> 2696.16] Can I answer your questions later? -[2696.62 --> 2697.32] Does that sound good? -[2698.16 --> 2699.42] Is that going to work for you? -[2703.00 --> 2705.00] Can I answer your questions later? -[2705.00 --> 2709.48] Today, we are going to talk about treasure. -[2709.72 --> 2712.46] Does anybody know anything about treasure hunts? -[2712.50 --> 2713.78] Has anybody ever been on one? -[2713.86 --> 2714.22] Oh, yeah? -[2714.96 --> 2717.56] Treasure hunts and treasure chests. -[2717.72 --> 2717.96] Right. -[2718.24 --> 2722.56] So we're going to talk about treasure today in the children's worship time. -[2722.64 --> 2732.48] We're going to talk about how we are Jesus' treasure and he came to save us and came to save us from all our sins. -[2732.48 --> 2736.62] How many people here have ever been on a treasure hunt before? -[2737.66 --> 2737.98] Yeah? -[2738.16 --> 2740.64] Well, who was here last night at the Mexico dinner? -[2741.90 --> 2742.48] Or, yeah. -[2742.98 --> 2744.52] Some of you guys were, I recognize you. -[2744.70 --> 2746.44] And it was a good time. -[2746.44 --> 2753.90] Well, when I was cleaning up and helping out around here, I went into the back room and I saw this back there in the back room. -[2753.98 --> 2755.24] So I thought, oh, this looks kind of funny. -[2755.30 --> 2756.28] Doesn't this look kind of weird? -[2757.26 --> 2763.98] So I took it apart and I opened it up and I found this. -[2764.90 --> 2766.16] What does this look like? -[2766.18 --> 2767.06] A map. -[2768.08 --> 2770.88] And on this map, maybe you guys can help me a little bit here. -[2770.96 --> 2771.84] Look at this map. -[2771.84 --> 2772.90] It's a treasure map. -[2773.34 --> 2775.50] It's a bit of a treasure map here. -[2777.20 --> 2778.38] So what do we got here? -[2778.50 --> 2781.18] Can anybody tell some of the things on this? -[2781.62 --> 2782.76] Oh, there's a playground. -[2783.04 --> 2783.92] What's this right here? -[2785.00 --> 2786.62] Is that this over here in the corner? -[2786.96 --> 2787.24] Yeah. -[2787.98 --> 2788.30] Okay. -[2788.50 --> 2790.44] And this is probably us right here, right? -[2790.76 --> 2791.08] Yeah. -[2791.54 --> 2792.82] And that's the door. -[2793.24 --> 2794.32] That looks like the kitchen. -[2794.48 --> 2795.56] What are these things right here? -[2796.24 --> 2797.30] Those are the bathrooms. -[2797.30 --> 2799.12] They're the bathrooms, actually. -[2799.22 --> 2802.36] I know the guy who drew this map is not a very good artist. -[2805.10 --> 2806.44] So I think. -[2806.70 --> 2807.60] That's a treasure map. -[2807.60 --> 2807.86] Okay. -[2808.28 --> 2808.58] Okay. -[2808.86 --> 2809.10] Okay. -[2809.36 --> 2811.32] This is spiraling out of control here. -[2812.30 --> 2812.70] Okay. -[2813.16 --> 2814.78] You know what we're going to do right now? -[2815.22 --> 2815.66] Okay. -[2815.80 --> 2816.72] Oh, oh, oh, oh. -[2816.72 --> 2817.00] Okay. -[2817.10 --> 2817.24] Shh. -[2817.34 --> 2817.74] My turn. -[2817.74 --> 2820.08] My turn to talk. -[2820.88 --> 2826.10] We are, after we do the blessing, we are going to follow this map and see if we can find -[2826.10 --> 2827.78] where the treasure is on this map. -[2828.50 --> 2829.18] All right. -[2829.80 --> 2839.54] So why don't we all stand up, turn around, and we are going to have a good time this morning. -[2839.78 --> 2840.18] Everybody. -[2842.58 --> 2844.22] Does everybody know what we're supposed to do? -[2846.98 --> 2851.52] The Lord be with you and also with you. -[2852.46 --> 2853.00] All right. -[2853.28 --> 2853.96] No running. -[2854.42 --> 2855.34] We're going to go this way. -[2856.10 --> 2885.64] Bye. -[2886.10 --> 2890.12] Good morning. -[2892.20 --> 2895.32] My name is Ken, and I'm an elder here at Emanuel Church, -[2895.74 --> 2898.82] and today I'll be leading us in our church family prayer. -[2899.02 --> 2901.88] But before we go into that, I have a couple just minor announcements. -[2902.74 --> 2907.48] First of all, in your e-bulletins, I'm pretty sure everyone should be receiving the e-bulletin by email. -[2907.58 --> 2913.04] If you don't, you can reach out to the church office to get your email address added to their list. -[2913.04 --> 2918.06] But in the e-bulletin, there's a notice about Matt and Nicole's wedding that's coming up, -[2918.40 --> 2920.28] and the date on that is not quite right. -[2920.36 --> 2922.88] It's March the 12th, Saturday, not the 13th. -[2922.90 --> 2925.32] So it's at 2 p.m. here at Emanuel Church, -[2925.50 --> 2929.86] and all are welcome to come and witness the marriage of Matt and Nicole. -[2931.04 --> 2934.98] And also, we are having the Lord's Supper next Sunday, -[2935.14 --> 2938.34] so we're asked to just be mindful of that, -[2938.34 --> 2940.28] take some time this week to prepare your hearts, -[2940.28 --> 2945.04] talk to your kids about what it is we're doing as we partake in the Lord's Supper, -[2945.54 --> 2947.28] and reflect on that as we prepare. -[2948.60 --> 2953.60] Additionally, I just heard that Herman Weaver's dad passed away in Alberta this week, -[2953.68 --> 2957.20] so we will uphold him and their family in our prayers as well. -[2957.94 --> 2961.90] So let's turn to our Lord and bow our hearts and heads together in prayer. -[2961.90 --> 2967.38] Our Father in heaven, you are so awesome and almighty. -[2968.22 --> 2971.12] As we have just sung, you are the Ancient of Days, -[2971.80 --> 2975.14] the King of Kings, and our hope in life and in death. -[2976.06 --> 2979.86] We know and recognize, Lord, that amid the joys and the trials, -[2980.24 --> 2982.06] amid the blessings and the difficulties, -[2982.74 --> 2984.98] in all places and in all circumstances, -[2985.38 --> 2986.86] our world belongs to you, Lord. -[2986.86 --> 2989.76] The earth is yours and everything in it, -[2990.10 --> 2991.92] the world and all who live in it. -[2992.40 --> 2994.08] So we come to you, Lord, this morning -[2994.08 --> 2996.94] with our joys and our burdens and lift them up to you. -[2998.22 --> 3001.38] We pray for all those, Lord, who are mourning the loss of loved ones. -[3002.08 --> 3005.10] We pray for Herman Weaver, as his dad has just passed away in Alberta, -[3005.20 --> 3007.54] and we pray for their family, Lord, be near to them. -[3008.50 --> 3010.82] We ask that you be near to the Denhan family -[3010.82 --> 3014.08] and the Miles families as well, who have recently lost loved ones. -[3014.08 --> 3017.10] And we pray that you bring comfort to all who mourn, -[3017.48 --> 3019.26] both for those who have lost loved ones recently -[3019.26 --> 3022.50] and for those who still mourn loved ones lost long ago. -[3024.26 --> 3025.74] Lord, we pray for Matt and Nicole, -[3025.94 --> 3027.84] who will be getting married in one week. -[3028.54 --> 3029.80] Bless their preparations, Lord, -[3029.94 --> 3032.14] and bless the wedding and bless their marriage. -[3032.80 --> 3035.04] We pray for all the marriages of your people here. -[3035.66 --> 3038.36] Lord, let them be a reflection of the covenant love -[3038.36 --> 3040.60] and relationship between Christ and the Church. -[3041.56 --> 3043.82] Help our marriages to be filled not only with love, -[3043.82 --> 3045.24] but equally with grace. -[3046.90 --> 3050.84] We pray, Lord, for your hand on the devastating situation in Ukraine. -[3051.54 --> 3053.10] As we see cities attacked, -[3053.44 --> 3055.22] people's homes and livelihoods destroyed, -[3055.78 --> 3056.80] freedom under threat, -[3057.16 --> 3059.44] and lives taken, Lord, we pray for peace -[3059.44 --> 3061.30] and an end to the bombings and the fighting. -[3062.36 --> 3064.58] Lord, we pray for safety for the civilians -[3064.58 --> 3067.40] who are trapped with no water or heat in Mariupol. -[3068.42 --> 3070.22] Lord, please work with the hearts of those -[3070.22 --> 3073.84] who can instate ceasefire to give these people a chance to get out. -[3075.22 --> 3077.80] We pray, Lord, for the over 1.5 million refugees -[3077.80 --> 3079.78] who have fled to Poland and other places. -[3080.56 --> 3082.84] Be near to them in this terrible situation -[3082.84 --> 3086.02] and bless the work and efforts of all who are helping refugees. -[3087.02 --> 3088.64] Help us, Lord, to reach out -[3088.64 --> 3091.00] and to be a support in whatever ways possible. -[3092.40 --> 3094.40] Lord, we thank you for the peace and the freedoms -[3094.40 --> 3095.92] that we experience here in Canada. -[3095.92 --> 3098.40] Help us not to become complacent -[3098.40 --> 3101.16] or dismiss wars and tensions in this world -[3101.16 --> 3102.34] as someone else's problem. -[3103.36 --> 3105.30] Lord, our whole world belongs to you. -[3105.76 --> 3107.70] Help us be the hands and feet of Jesus -[3107.70 --> 3109.82] to the refugee, to the embattled, -[3110.00 --> 3111.36] to the hurt, and to the lost. -[3113.06 --> 3114.38] Lord, we also pray this morning -[3114.38 --> 3116.10] for our church ministry here at Emmanuel -[3116.10 --> 3118.82] and to the ministry that we're about to embark on -[3118.82 --> 3120.10] through the Mexico missions trip. -[3120.90 --> 3122.58] Lord, we lift up to you -[3122.58 --> 3124.44] our team of young people and the youth leaders -[3124.44 --> 3127.16] who are preparing to leave to serve in the Tijuana area. -[3127.92 --> 3130.20] We ask, Lord, for safety for the group as they travel -[3130.20 --> 3132.16] and that you will use each one of them -[3132.16 --> 3133.94] to minister to the people they meet. -[3134.76 --> 3136.60] We pray that through this work -[3136.60 --> 3137.78] you will further your kingdom -[3137.78 --> 3140.24] and change the lives of the people in Mexico -[3140.24 --> 3142.78] and of each member of our team from this church. -[3144.34 --> 3147.44] We also pray, Lord, for our church body and denomination. -[3148.16 --> 3149.36] We pray for the classist meeting -[3149.36 --> 3151.48] that's about to take place this week in Abbotsford. -[3152.28 --> 3153.48] Bless the delegates as they meet -[3153.48 --> 3155.02] and work through the many topics, -[3155.16 --> 3157.10] including the impacts of the COVID pandemic -[3157.10 --> 3159.72] and of the flooding that took place in Abbotsford. -[3160.74 --> 3162.32] Lord, bring healing and restoration -[3162.32 --> 3165.42] to all who have been directly affected by these things -[3165.42 --> 3168.54] and to all of us who are affected one way or another. -[3169.68 --> 3170.96] Things so often take longer -[3170.96 --> 3172.76] to get back to normal than we like. -[3173.24 --> 3174.24] Give us patience, Lord. -[3174.24 --> 3178.22] Lord, we pray as we prepare our hearts -[3178.22 --> 3179.48] for the Lord's Supper next week -[3179.48 --> 3183.12] that we will reflect on the sacrifice -[3183.12 --> 3184.86] that you've given to us in your son -[3184.86 --> 3187.72] and the symbol that we get to partake in -[3187.72 --> 3189.16] as we partake in the Lord's Supper. -[3190.92 --> 3193.78] Lord, we pray for all who are feeling struggles right now, -[3194.44 --> 3195.50] including those who struggle -[3195.50 --> 3197.98] with the increased cost of living we're all experiencing. -[3198.86 --> 3200.72] Help us put our trust in you -[3200.72 --> 3203.84] and to seek out and to help our brother and sister -[3203.84 --> 3206.06] within our families, within our church, -[3206.06 --> 3208.30] our communities and throughout your world, -[3208.82 --> 3209.74] wherever there is need. -[3211.02 --> 3213.28] And Lord, now as we are turning to your word, -[3213.52 --> 3215.40] we pray your blessing on Pastor Chris -[3215.40 --> 3217.48] as he brings us your word this morning. -[3218.22 --> 3219.92] Lord, speak to us during this time. -[3220.36 --> 3221.30] Impact our lives. -[3221.64 --> 3222.90] And as we go out this week, -[3223.24 --> 3224.88] help us minister to your world. -[3225.34 --> 3228.16] We ask all this in the name of our blessed Savior, Jesus. -[3228.76 --> 3229.02] Amen. -[3236.06 --> 3260.56] We are absolutely going to continue our worship -[3260.56 --> 3263.58] in God's word together -[3263.58 --> 3265.86] for the next little while. -[3266.32 --> 3268.48] And this morning, -[3269.40 --> 3271.92] as we have been working through the book of Exodus, -[3273.04 --> 3275.38] as we come into the text, -[3275.50 --> 3278.46] which we'll read from Exodus 19 and 20. -[3278.68 --> 3280.22] So if you have a Bible, you can get that ready. -[3280.48 --> 3281.48] We'll read that in just a moment. -[3281.58 --> 3283.90] It will be on the screen behind me as well. -[3284.62 --> 3288.42] But I want to start by framing it for us -[3288.42 --> 3290.10] by asking the question, -[3291.02 --> 3294.28] what is life supposed to look like? -[3296.28 --> 3299.92] What are we supposed to do in this world? -[3301.00 --> 3305.06] And depending on what you believe about the world, -[3305.16 --> 3307.98] you will answer that question differently. -[3309.48 --> 3313.68] If you believe that life is ultimately meaningless -[3313.68 --> 3317.06] and that all we have are the years on this planet, -[3317.60 --> 3320.84] life will probably look like the pursuit of happiness, -[3321.42 --> 3324.44] will look like increasing personal safety -[3324.44 --> 3327.56] and personal, maybe familial, -[3327.72 --> 3329.82] and maybe communal comfort -[3329.82 --> 3333.96] as the goals and values of living in this world. -[3335.64 --> 3338.94] Maybe your idea about life -[3338.94 --> 3342.68] is the pursuit of status and reputation. -[3342.68 --> 3345.70] And then what you do in life -[3345.70 --> 3347.82] will be whatever you must -[3347.82 --> 3350.00] in order to gain that, right? -[3350.06 --> 3351.54] To climb higher. -[3353.04 --> 3356.26] Maybe your experience tells you -[3356.26 --> 3359.10] that life is supposed to be -[3359.10 --> 3363.50] about the maximal experience of well-being -[3363.50 --> 3366.52] for the maximum number of people possible. -[3366.82 --> 3368.82] Or maybe it's the other side -[3368.82 --> 3371.10] and your experience tells you -[3371.10 --> 3372.54] that life is meaningless -[3372.54 --> 3374.26] and that there's no bigger point. -[3374.34 --> 3375.30] And then so what's the point -[3375.30 --> 3376.32] of anything along the way? -[3377.42 --> 3378.92] Whether it's, you know, -[3379.00 --> 3380.90] traditional philosophical hedonism -[3380.90 --> 3383.52] or traditional philosophical nihilism -[3383.52 --> 3384.50] on the other side, -[3384.66 --> 3387.36] we all have an idea in this world, -[3387.44 --> 3390.16] we all operate out of an idea -[3390.16 --> 3392.78] about what life is supposed to look like. -[3392.78 --> 3396.76] We all have a sort of frame -[3396.76 --> 3398.92] or a social imaginary -[3398.92 --> 3400.20] or a worldview -[3400.20 --> 3403.40] that we hold tight to -[3403.40 --> 3404.96] that has assumptions -[3404.96 --> 3407.58] about what we're supposed to do -[3407.58 --> 3409.40] or how we're supposed to be, -[3409.90 --> 3413.12] what it means to live the good life -[3413.12 --> 3415.80] or what it means to live in community -[3415.80 --> 3417.32] or as an individual. -[3417.32 --> 3419.86] Now what we're going to read this morning -[3419.86 --> 3424.68] is the summary of the traditional Jewish -[3424.68 --> 3427.88] and then eventually Judeo-Christian answer -[3427.88 --> 3429.38] to this question. -[3430.34 --> 3432.50] We're going to read the Ten Commandments. -[3434.12 --> 3434.66] And then, -[3435.60 --> 3438.20] instead of looking at each commandment individually, -[3439.14 --> 3439.98] if you're interested, -[3440.12 --> 3441.70] we can save that for another series -[3441.70 --> 3442.84] sometime in the future, -[3442.84 --> 3446.54] we're going to look at sort of a 30,000 foot view -[3446.54 --> 3449.72] of what it means to live life with God -[3449.72 --> 3451.28] in gratitude to God -[3451.28 --> 3453.36] for the glory of God. -[3454.80 --> 3456.02] And so as we read, -[3456.10 --> 3456.92] we're going to start -[3456.92 --> 3459.10] in chapter 19 -[3459.10 --> 3460.56] at verse 16 -[3460.56 --> 3462.88] to sort of set the narrative context -[3462.88 --> 3464.40] and then we'll get into -[3464.40 --> 3465.54] the Ten Commandments themselves. -[3466.82 --> 3468.14] So, hear the word of the Lord. -[3470.04 --> 3472.64] On the morning of the third day, -[3472.84 --> 3474.64] there was thunder and lightning -[3474.64 --> 3477.38] with a thick cloud over the mountain -[3477.38 --> 3479.54] and a very loud trumpet blast. -[3480.32 --> 3481.72] Everyone in the camp trembled. -[3482.70 --> 3485.52] Then Moses led the people out of the camp -[3485.52 --> 3486.44] to meet with God -[3486.44 --> 3489.16] and they stood at the foot of the mountain. -[3490.28 --> 3492.08] Mount Sinai was covered with smoke -[3492.08 --> 3494.74] because the Lord descended on it in fire -[3494.74 --> 3496.56] and the smoke billowed up from it -[3496.56 --> 3497.84] like smoke from a furnace -[3497.84 --> 3500.00] and the whole mountain trembled violently. -[3500.00 --> 3502.68] And as the sound of the trumpet -[3502.68 --> 3503.88] grew louder and louder, -[3504.06 --> 3504.98] Moses spoke -[3504.98 --> 3506.60] and the voice of God -[3506.60 --> 3507.68] answered him. -[3509.22 --> 3510.52] The Lord descended -[3510.52 --> 3512.58] to the top of Mount Sinai -[3512.58 --> 3513.48] and called Moses -[3513.48 --> 3515.00] to the top of the mountain. -[3516.12 --> 3517.22] So Moses went up -[3517.22 --> 3518.32] and the Lord said to him, -[3518.76 --> 3520.12] go down and warn the people -[3520.12 --> 3521.94] so they do not force their way through -[3521.94 --> 3522.90] to see the Lord -[3522.90 --> 3524.50] and many of them perish. -[3524.50 --> 3526.10] Even the priests -[3526.10 --> 3527.18] who approach the Lord -[3527.18 --> 3528.50] must consecrate themselves -[3528.50 --> 3530.60] or the Lord will break out against them. -[3532.00 --> 3533.46] Moses said to the Lord, -[3534.56 --> 3536.54] the people cannot come up Mount Sinai -[3536.54 --> 3538.64] because you yourself warned us, -[3538.76 --> 3539.88] put limits around the mountain -[3539.88 --> 3541.28] and set it apart as holy. -[3542.42 --> 3543.44] The Lord replied, -[3543.86 --> 3546.36] go down and bring Aaron up with you, -[3547.22 --> 3548.68] but the priests and the people -[3548.68 --> 3550.34] must not force their way through -[3550.34 --> 3551.42] to come up to the Lord -[3551.42 --> 3553.32] or he will break out against them. -[3554.32 --> 3555.98] So Moses went down to the people -[3555.98 --> 3557.16] and told them. -[3558.72 --> 3562.36] And God spoke all these words. -[3563.72 --> 3566.08] I am the Lord your God -[3566.08 --> 3568.18] who brought you out of Egypt, -[3568.32 --> 3569.94] out of the land of slavery. -[3570.12 --> 3572.52] You shall have no other gods before me. -[3573.66 --> 3575.18] You shall not make for yourself -[3575.18 --> 3577.84] an image in the form of anything -[3577.84 --> 3578.58] in heaven above -[3578.58 --> 3579.78] or in the earth beneath -[3579.78 --> 3580.82] or in the waters below. -[3581.42 --> 3583.30] You shall not bow down to them -[3583.30 --> 3584.30] or worship them, -[3584.80 --> 3586.42] for I, the Lord your God, -[3586.46 --> 3587.44] am a jealous God, -[3587.54 --> 3588.70] punishing the children -[3588.70 --> 3589.88] for the sin of the parents -[3589.88 --> 3591.46] to the third and fourth generation -[3591.46 --> 3592.56] of those who hate me, -[3592.80 --> 3593.72] but showing love -[3593.72 --> 3595.16] to a thousand generations -[3595.16 --> 3596.56] of those who love me -[3596.56 --> 3598.00] and keep my commandments. -[3599.32 --> 3600.78] You shall not misuse -[3600.78 --> 3602.34] the name of the Lord your God, -[3602.40 --> 3603.46] for the Lord will not hold -[3603.46 --> 3604.48] anyone guiltless -[3604.48 --> 3605.88] who misuses his name. -[3607.56 --> 3609.24] Remember the Sabbath day -[3609.24 --> 3610.52] by keeping it holy. -[3611.62 --> 3613.16] Six days you shall labor -[3613.16 --> 3614.48] and do all your work, -[3614.96 --> 3616.22] but the seventh day -[3616.22 --> 3618.00] is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. -[3618.80 --> 3620.88] On it you shall not do any work, -[3620.96 --> 3622.22] neither you nor your son -[3622.22 --> 3622.74] or daughter, -[3622.84 --> 3624.38] nor your male or female servants, -[3624.50 --> 3625.16] nor your animals, -[3625.28 --> 3626.42] nor the foreigner -[3626.42 --> 3627.82] residing in your towns. -[3628.12 --> 3629.40] For in six days -[3629.40 --> 3630.56] the Lord made the heavens -[3630.56 --> 3631.48] and the earth, -[3631.70 --> 3633.30] the sea and all that is in them, -[3633.30 --> 3635.66] but he rested on the seventh day. -[3636.44 --> 3637.74] Therefore the Lord blessed -[3637.74 --> 3638.76] the Sabbath day -[3638.76 --> 3639.92] and made it holy. -[3641.64 --> 3642.98] Honor your father -[3642.98 --> 3643.94] and your mother -[3643.94 --> 3645.66] so that you may live long -[3645.66 --> 3646.22] in the land -[3646.22 --> 3647.14] the Lord your God -[3647.14 --> 3647.80] is giving you. -[3648.70 --> 3649.56] You shall not murder, -[3650.22 --> 3651.84] you shall not commit adultery, -[3652.10 --> 3653.34] you shall not steal, -[3653.60 --> 3655.30] you shall not give false testimony -[3655.30 --> 3656.34] against your neighbor, -[3656.70 --> 3657.70] you shall not covet -[3657.70 --> 3658.58] your neighbor's house, -[3658.70 --> 3659.38] you shall not covet -[3659.38 --> 3660.10] your neighbor's wife -[3660.10 --> 3661.74] or his male or female servant, -[3661.74 --> 3663.18] his ox or donkey -[3663.18 --> 3663.88] or anything -[3663.88 --> 3665.10] that belongs -[3665.10 --> 3666.28] to your neighbor. -[3668.16 --> 3669.38] When the people saw -[3669.38 --> 3669.92] the thunder -[3669.92 --> 3670.60] and the lightning -[3670.60 --> 3671.50] and heard the trumpet -[3671.50 --> 3672.44] and saw the mountain -[3672.44 --> 3673.04] in smoke, -[3673.16 --> 3674.66] they trembled with fear. -[3675.72 --> 3677.16] They stayed at a distance -[3677.16 --> 3679.58] and said to Moses, -[3680.28 --> 3681.88] Speak to us yourself -[3681.88 --> 3682.88] and we will listen, -[3683.32 --> 3684.32] but do not have God -[3684.32 --> 3685.02] speak to us -[3685.02 --> 3685.84] or we will die. -[3687.30 --> 3688.58] Moses said to the people, -[3689.12 --> 3690.18] Do not be afraid. -[3690.66 --> 3691.36] God has come -[3691.36 --> 3692.12] to test you -[3692.12 --> 3692.88] so that the fear -[3692.88 --> 3693.36] of God -[3693.36 --> 3694.20] will be with you -[3694.20 --> 3695.18] to keep you -[3695.18 --> 3695.82] from sinning. -[3696.68 --> 3697.48] And the people -[3697.48 --> 3698.74] remained at a distance -[3698.74 --> 3699.48] while Moses -[3699.48 --> 3700.10] approached -[3700.10 --> 3702.42] the thick darkness -[3702.42 --> 3703.36] where God -[3703.36 --> 3704.28] was. -[3705.34 --> 3706.16] This is the word -[3706.16 --> 3706.58] of the Lord. -[3710.36 --> 3710.88] Now, -[3711.22 --> 3712.44] this morning -[3712.44 --> 3713.54] we're going -[3713.54 --> 3714.90] to do -[3714.90 --> 3715.44] the work -[3715.44 --> 3716.50] of theology, -[3717.14 --> 3717.88] of biblical -[3717.88 --> 3718.50] and systematic -[3718.50 --> 3719.14] theology -[3719.14 --> 3719.96] this morning -[3719.96 --> 3720.64] and so roll -[3720.64 --> 3721.32] up your sleeves -[3721.32 --> 3722.48] because we're -[3722.48 --> 3722.86] going to dig -[3722.86 --> 3724.08] in together. -[3724.54 --> 3724.64] Now, -[3724.70 --> 3725.08] don't worry, -[3725.20 --> 3726.40] all good theology -[3726.40 --> 3728.28] is practical theology -[3728.28 --> 3729.00] and so we'll -[3729.00 --> 3729.62] leave you with -[3729.62 --> 3730.22] something there -[3730.22 --> 3731.06] at the end. -[3733.12 --> 3734.10] Like we said, -[3734.90 --> 3736.34] everyone has -[3736.34 --> 3737.12] an idea -[3737.12 --> 3738.56] about what life -[3738.56 --> 3739.20] is supposed -[3739.20 --> 3739.98] to look like, -[3740.46 --> 3741.08] about how we're -[3741.08 --> 3742.10] supposed to live -[3742.10 --> 3744.58] and for what goals -[3744.58 --> 3745.30] or values -[3745.30 --> 3746.08] we are supposed -[3746.08 --> 3746.46] to live. -[3746.46 --> 3747.72] And if you grew -[3747.72 --> 3748.46] up Christian -[3748.46 --> 3749.84] or if you grew -[3749.84 --> 3750.88] up in a western -[3750.88 --> 3752.58] country like Canada -[3752.58 --> 3754.08] which has a history -[3754.08 --> 3755.46] of being formed -[3755.46 --> 3757.16] on Christian -[3757.16 --> 3758.66] social values, -[3759.10 --> 3760.28] these ten commandments -[3760.28 --> 3761.42] are familiar -[3761.42 --> 3761.92] to you. -[3763.54 --> 3764.90] And for some, -[3765.66 --> 3766.50] whether you are -[3766.50 --> 3768.04] explicitly religious -[3768.04 --> 3768.92] or not, -[3769.30 --> 3770.44] the ten commandments -[3770.44 --> 3771.76] sort of represent -[3771.76 --> 3772.68] the pathway -[3772.68 --> 3773.36] to heaven. -[3773.36 --> 3774.32] Right? -[3774.40 --> 3775.34] Just do these -[3775.34 --> 3776.38] things and then -[3776.38 --> 3777.58] when you die -[3777.58 --> 3778.34] you'll go to heaven. -[3779.36 --> 3780.38] For others, -[3780.84 --> 3781.92] the ten commandments -[3781.92 --> 3782.88] are just a good -[3782.88 --> 3784.16] sort of recommendation -[3784.16 --> 3785.38] about how you're -[3785.38 --> 3786.08] supposed to live. -[3786.32 --> 3787.52] At least the second -[3787.52 --> 3788.24] half of the ten -[3788.24 --> 3788.90] commandments are. -[3789.24 --> 3789.46] Right? -[3789.48 --> 3790.00] We can forget -[3790.00 --> 3790.82] about the stuff -[3790.82 --> 3791.74] about God -[3791.74 --> 3792.56] and the Sabbath -[3792.56 --> 3793.46] and all of that -[3793.46 --> 3793.94] but that stuff -[3793.94 --> 3794.80] about not murdering, -[3794.88 --> 3795.54] that's pretty cool. -[3797.02 --> 3798.04] And for others -[3798.04 --> 3799.76] and increasingly so -[3799.76 --> 3800.94] in our post-Christian -[3800.94 --> 3801.44] world, -[3801.92 --> 3802.78] the ten commandments -[3802.78 --> 3804.04] and really any -[3804.04 --> 3805.30] religious ethical -[3805.30 --> 3805.96] instruction -[3805.96 --> 3807.76] are to be cast off -[3807.76 --> 3808.64] as the shackles -[3808.64 --> 3809.50] that have hamstrung -[3809.50 --> 3810.00] the progressive -[3810.00 --> 3810.54] development -[3810.54 --> 3811.96] and have oppressed -[3811.96 --> 3812.88] whole portions -[3812.88 --> 3813.84] of the world -[3813.84 --> 3814.78] and subcultures -[3814.78 --> 3815.26] within it. -[3817.00 --> 3818.00] And in this latter -[3818.00 --> 3818.36] case, -[3818.46 --> 3818.94] to be sure, -[3819.10 --> 3820.18] if you get on -[3820.18 --> 3820.88] social media -[3820.88 --> 3821.72] and you listen -[3821.72 --> 3822.48] to all the -[3822.48 --> 3823.58] so-called -[3823.58 --> 3824.78] ex-evangelical -[3824.78 --> 3825.60] stories of -[3825.60 --> 3826.26] deconversion, -[3827.16 --> 3827.96] now I realize -[3827.96 --> 3829.28] that ex-evangelical -[3829.28 --> 3830.14] might not be a word -[3830.14 --> 3830.56] some of you -[3830.56 --> 3831.10] are used to, -[3831.10 --> 3832.76] but it's the idea -[3832.76 --> 3833.64] that's really -[3833.64 --> 3835.54] sort of in vogue -[3835.54 --> 3836.34] in the social media -[3836.34 --> 3837.20] world right now -[3837.20 --> 3837.80] about people -[3837.80 --> 3838.54] who grew up -[3838.54 --> 3839.58] in a traditional -[3839.58 --> 3841.12] evangelical context -[3841.12 --> 3842.64] and have left it. -[3842.72 --> 3843.04] They are -[3843.04 --> 3844.64] ex-evangelical, -[3844.90 --> 3845.90] ex-evangelical. -[3846.96 --> 3847.74] And you hear -[3847.74 --> 3848.38] those stories -[3848.38 --> 3850.24] and the truth is, -[3850.28 --> 3851.14] if I'm honest -[3851.14 --> 3852.54] and clear, -[3852.70 --> 3853.50] is that some -[3853.50 --> 3854.26] of what they -[3854.26 --> 3854.90] say -[3854.90 --> 3856.24] isn't wrong -[3856.24 --> 3858.10] because there -[3858.10 --> 3858.88] is a whole -[3858.88 --> 3859.46] culture -[3859.46 --> 3860.68] of Christian -[3860.68 --> 3862.20] that wields -[3862.20 --> 3862.84] morality -[3862.84 --> 3863.90] as a weapon. -[3865.22 --> 3866.00] And there's -[3866.00 --> 3867.00] a whole history -[3867.00 --> 3867.92] of Western -[3867.92 --> 3868.76] colonialism -[3868.76 --> 3870.08] being wedded -[3870.08 --> 3871.00] to the Christian -[3871.00 --> 3872.42] mission of evangelism -[3872.42 --> 3873.28] that is really -[3873.28 --> 3873.96] just a thinly -[3873.96 --> 3874.70] covered veil -[3874.70 --> 3875.36] for the abuses -[3875.36 --> 3875.92] of power. -[3877.26 --> 3878.26] That's true. -[3879.12 --> 3879.62] And we need -[3879.62 --> 3880.64] to repent -[3880.64 --> 3881.82] of our part -[3881.82 --> 3882.34] in that -[3882.34 --> 3882.84] or our -[3882.84 --> 3883.82] perpetuation -[3883.82 --> 3884.84] of that kind -[3884.84 --> 3885.26] of system -[3885.26 --> 3885.84] if we have -[3885.84 --> 3886.34] done that. -[3886.98 --> 3887.72] And we need -[3887.72 --> 3888.96] to be so -[3888.96 --> 3890.22] incredibly mindful -[3890.22 --> 3891.70] of that temptation -[3891.70 --> 3892.84] for power -[3892.84 --> 3894.26] and privilege. -[3895.32 --> 3896.50] But the question -[3896.50 --> 3897.78] remains for us -[3897.78 --> 3898.30] this morning, -[3898.54 --> 3898.68] right? -[3898.76 --> 3899.68] Utterly rejecting -[3899.68 --> 3901.74] the past abuses -[3901.74 --> 3902.76] and fleeing -[3902.76 --> 3903.58] the temptation -[3903.58 --> 3904.56] to weaponize -[3904.56 --> 3905.52] morality, -[3906.16 --> 3906.96] what role, -[3907.48 --> 3908.22] if any, -[3908.96 --> 3909.72] do the Ten -[3909.72 --> 3910.44] Commandments -[3910.44 --> 3912.12] play in defining -[3912.12 --> 3913.14] what life is -[3913.14 --> 3913.92] supposed to look -[3913.92 --> 3914.30] like? -[3914.84 --> 3915.90] For the Christian -[3915.90 --> 3917.44] and then maybe -[3917.44 --> 3919.50] for the non-Christian. -[3922.16 --> 3923.22] Now before we can -[3923.22 --> 3923.70] answer that -[3923.70 --> 3925.04] bigger question, -[3925.32 --> 3925.80] there's one that -[3925.80 --> 3926.30] we need to -[3926.30 --> 3927.60] start with -[3927.60 --> 3929.02] and that is -[3929.02 --> 3930.02] what is the -[3930.02 --> 3931.40] best way -[3931.40 --> 3932.56] to understand -[3932.56 --> 3933.90] or to approach -[3933.90 --> 3935.38] the Ten Commandments? -[3936.42 --> 3937.38] Now this question -[3937.38 --> 3938.18] may seem a little bit -[3938.18 --> 3939.22] strange as a starting -[3939.22 --> 3939.72] point because -[3939.72 --> 3940.36] some of you -[3940.36 --> 3940.98] might just say, -[3941.10 --> 3941.24] well, -[3942.04 --> 3942.50] can't we just -[3942.50 --> 3942.88] read them? -[3943.62 --> 3944.42] Can't we do them? -[3944.42 --> 3945.42] Can't we just ask -[3945.42 --> 3946.48] forgiveness when we -[3946.48 --> 3946.98] screw up? -[3947.84 --> 3948.52] What do we need a -[3948.52 --> 3949.50] framework for -[3949.50 --> 3950.68] for understanding? -[3950.92 --> 3951.78] Just do what it -[3951.78 --> 3952.14] says. -[3953.48 --> 3954.50] Problem is, -[3954.58 --> 3955.10] of course, -[3955.22 --> 3955.38] right, -[3955.58 --> 3956.64] that in the rest -[3956.64 --> 3957.38] of our reading -[3957.38 --> 3958.10] of the Bible -[3958.10 --> 3959.26] we always -[3959.26 --> 3960.48] use a framework, -[3961.02 --> 3961.20] right? -[3961.22 --> 3961.96] We always have -[3961.96 --> 3963.18] what some people -[3963.18 --> 3964.32] have called a lens, -[3964.48 --> 3965.18] I wear glasses, -[3965.34 --> 3965.88] a lens -[3965.88 --> 3967.04] through which -[3967.04 --> 3967.80] we look -[3967.80 --> 3969.22] at the Bible -[3969.22 --> 3970.02] and by which -[3970.02 --> 3971.04] we read Scripture. -[3971.16 --> 3971.92] Everyone does it. -[3971.92 --> 3973.12] everyone has it. -[3973.90 --> 3974.90] You just might not -[3974.90 --> 3975.82] recognize it. -[3976.88 --> 3977.78] Now in theology, -[3978.20 --> 3979.00] what we call this -[3979.00 --> 3979.98] is the issue -[3979.98 --> 3981.04] of interpretation -[3981.04 --> 3982.84] or the issue -[3982.84 --> 3984.20] of hermeneutics. -[3985.42 --> 3985.90] Now, -[3986.30 --> 3987.54] I used that word -[3987.54 --> 3988.36] one time before -[3988.36 --> 3989.16] and someone said, -[3989.48 --> 3989.70] you know, -[3989.82 --> 3990.14] Pastor, -[3990.38 --> 3991.12] I don't need a -[3991.12 --> 3991.84] hermeneutic for -[3991.84 --> 3992.48] reading the Bible, -[3992.74 --> 3993.74] I just pick it up. -[3995.24 --> 3995.46] I said, -[3995.50 --> 3995.62] well, -[3995.66 --> 3996.08] actually, -[3996.76 --> 3997.98] that's not true -[3997.98 --> 3999.52] and I know -[3999.52 --> 4000.44] that that's not true -[4000.44 --> 4002.30] because you still -[4002.30 --> 4003.44] have your right hand -[4003.44 --> 4004.32] and your right eye. -[4005.46 --> 4005.84] This person -[4005.84 --> 4006.18] looked at me -[4006.18 --> 4006.32] and said, -[4006.40 --> 4006.58] what? -[4007.14 --> 4007.34] I said, -[4007.38 --> 4007.52] well, -[4007.62 --> 4008.60] in Matthew 5, -[4008.66 --> 4009.52] verse 29 and 30, -[4009.62 --> 4010.26] Jesus says, -[4010.62 --> 4011.38] if your right eye -[4011.38 --> 4012.34] causes you to sin, -[4013.62 --> 4014.28] gouge it out, -[4014.86 --> 4015.44] throw it away. -[4016.16 --> 4016.70] For it's better -[4016.70 --> 4017.42] for you to lose -[4017.42 --> 4018.36] one part of your body -[4018.36 --> 4019.26] than for your whole body -[4019.26 --> 4020.18] to be thrown into hell. -[4020.52 --> 4021.50] And if your right hand -[4021.50 --> 4022.44] causes you to sin, -[4023.12 --> 4023.88] cut it off -[4023.88 --> 4025.12] and throw it away. -[4026.34 --> 4026.52] Now, -[4026.52 --> 4027.42] if she simply -[4027.42 --> 4028.50] read the Bible -[4028.50 --> 4029.74] and did what it said, -[4030.94 --> 4031.46] she would be -[4031.46 --> 4032.38] a half-blind cripple. -[4033.52 --> 4034.00] But, -[4034.32 --> 4035.40] we all have -[4035.40 --> 4036.12] a hermeneutic. -[4037.38 --> 4038.28] Here's another one. -[4038.90 --> 4039.52] No less than -[4039.52 --> 4040.26] four times -[4040.26 --> 4040.94] in the New Testament, -[4041.06 --> 4041.74] the Apostle Paul -[4041.74 --> 4042.58] tells believers -[4042.58 --> 4044.42] to greet each other -[4044.42 --> 4045.86] with a holy kiss. -[4047.40 --> 4048.42] When was the last time -[4048.42 --> 4049.18] you did that in church? -[4050.86 --> 4051.26] Surely, -[4051.38 --> 4052.30] not in the last two years. -[4056.06 --> 4056.50] Right? -[4056.52 --> 4057.12] We all have -[4057.12 --> 4057.76] a framework -[4057.76 --> 4059.14] for understanding. -[4059.92 --> 4060.82] What I hope -[4060.82 --> 4061.74] to do with you -[4061.74 --> 4063.02] quickly this morning -[4063.02 --> 4063.80] is to come up -[4063.80 --> 4065.74] with a shared framework. -[4066.64 --> 4067.12] Because, -[4067.24 --> 4068.32] having a framework -[4068.32 --> 4069.00] for understanding -[4069.00 --> 4070.28] is also true -[4070.28 --> 4071.52] when we come -[4071.52 --> 4072.46] to the Ten Commandments. -[4073.48 --> 4074.36] For instance, -[4075.16 --> 4075.38] right, -[4075.44 --> 4076.26] the Second Commandment -[4076.26 --> 4076.56] says, -[4076.64 --> 4077.34] rather explicitly, -[4077.86 --> 4078.42] you shall not -[4078.42 --> 4079.20] make for yourself -[4079.20 --> 4079.70] an image -[4079.70 --> 4080.16] in the form -[4080.16 --> 4080.64] of anything -[4080.64 --> 4081.54] in heaven above -[4081.54 --> 4082.36] or on the earth -[4082.36 --> 4082.76] beneath -[4082.76 --> 4083.78] or in the waters below. -[4083.78 --> 4085.64] Now, -[4085.68 --> 4086.30] does that refer -[4086.30 --> 4087.68] to the idols -[4087.68 --> 4088.80] of other gods -[4088.80 --> 4089.88] that we're not -[4089.88 --> 4090.68] supposed to have -[4090.68 --> 4091.48] or does that refer -[4091.48 --> 4092.50] to any image -[4092.50 --> 4094.08] of the one true God? -[4094.18 --> 4094.76] Does this refer -[4094.76 --> 4095.24] to images -[4095.24 --> 4096.46] of God himself? -[4096.64 --> 4097.48] And if it does refer -[4097.48 --> 4097.90] to images -[4097.90 --> 4098.56] of God himself, -[4098.86 --> 4099.88] in what way -[4099.88 --> 4100.80] and how far? -[4101.18 --> 4101.34] Right? -[4101.38 --> 4101.94] Are we allowed -[4101.94 --> 4102.52] to have pictures -[4102.52 --> 4102.98] of Jesus -[4102.98 --> 4104.00] in our children's Bibles? -[4105.10 --> 4105.26] Right? -[4105.30 --> 4106.46] Or if you're old enough, -[4106.98 --> 4108.26] were we all sinning -[4108.26 --> 4109.42] when the Sunday school teacher -[4109.42 --> 4110.04] put Jesus -[4110.04 --> 4110.90] on the felt board? -[4110.90 --> 4111.34] Right? -[4112.56 --> 4113.52] You remember felt boards? -[4115.56 --> 4117.14] Or in the Fourth Commandment, -[4117.30 --> 4117.54] right, -[4117.86 --> 4118.58] we read, -[4118.98 --> 4119.96] remember the Sabbath day -[4119.96 --> 4120.88] by keeping it holy. -[4121.02 --> 4121.76] The seventh day -[4121.76 --> 4122.36] is a Sabbath -[4122.36 --> 4123.30] to the Lord your God. -[4123.38 --> 4123.66] On it, -[4123.70 --> 4124.82] you shall not do any work. -[4125.74 --> 4126.56] But what qualifies -[4126.56 --> 4127.04] as work? -[4128.48 --> 4128.62] Right? -[4128.64 --> 4129.12] Am I allowed -[4129.12 --> 4130.24] to go out for lunch -[4130.24 --> 4131.54] after church -[4131.54 --> 4133.46] because it's less work -[4133.46 --> 4134.32] for me to go out -[4134.32 --> 4135.22] and get lunch -[4135.22 --> 4136.04] than it is to make it -[4136.04 --> 4136.28] at home? -[4138.16 --> 4139.30] Can I cut the grass? -[4139.30 --> 4141.12] Can I weed the garden? -[4141.92 --> 4142.82] Is that work? -[4143.74 --> 4144.24] Am I allowed -[4144.24 --> 4145.06] to play sports -[4145.06 --> 4145.72] or games -[4145.72 --> 4147.06] or, heaven forbid, -[4147.22 --> 4149.20] cards on Sunday? -[4150.06 --> 4150.50] Now, you laugh, -[4150.56 --> 4151.50] but there was a time -[4151.50 --> 4152.70] in our church's history -[4152.70 --> 4153.78] where that was forbidden. -[4153.90 --> 4154.34] Some of you -[4154.34 --> 4155.34] might remember that. -[4156.62 --> 4156.74] Right? -[4156.78 --> 4157.60] The challenge -[4157.60 --> 4159.04] of interpretation -[4159.04 --> 4160.44] is raised -[4160.44 --> 4161.86] and how we understand -[4161.86 --> 4162.52] and apply -[4162.52 --> 4164.18] is so important. -[4164.26 --> 4165.62] And it comes up again -[4165.62 --> 4166.84] in the time of Jesus. -[4167.90 --> 4168.08] Right? -[4168.08 --> 4170.74] So, as New Testament Christians, -[4171.68 --> 4172.30] we want to look -[4172.30 --> 4173.18] for a New Testament -[4173.18 --> 4174.26] interpretation -[4174.26 --> 4175.92] of the Old Testament -[4175.92 --> 4176.76] as a guide -[4176.76 --> 4177.74] for understanding -[4177.74 --> 4178.58] scriptures. -[4178.80 --> 4179.40] And in the Sermon -[4179.40 --> 4179.88] on the Mount, -[4180.68 --> 4181.58] Jesus says, -[4182.58 --> 4183.16] do not think -[4183.16 --> 4183.76] that I have come -[4183.76 --> 4184.60] to abolish -[4184.60 --> 4185.06] the law -[4185.06 --> 4185.82] and the prophets. -[4186.30 --> 4186.86] I've not come -[4186.86 --> 4187.94] to abolish them, -[4188.12 --> 4189.56] but to fulfill them. -[4190.88 --> 4191.10] And so, -[4191.16 --> 4192.14] what does fulfill mean -[4192.14 --> 4193.06] in that moment? -[4194.58 --> 4194.72] Right? -[4194.74 --> 4196.46] There's a commentator -[4196.46 --> 4197.38] named Dale Bruner. -[4197.50 --> 4198.10] I like he has -[4198.10 --> 4199.22] a play on words here. -[4199.96 --> 4200.60] He says that -[4200.60 --> 4201.62] Jesus comes -[4201.62 --> 4203.32] to fulfill the law -[4203.32 --> 4205.26] in that he keeps it perfectly, -[4205.58 --> 4207.04] but also in that -[4207.04 --> 4208.54] he fills it up -[4208.54 --> 4210.78] with new meaning for us. -[4211.84 --> 4212.44] And so, -[4212.50 --> 4213.28] that's why the command -[4213.28 --> 4214.20] to not murder -[4214.20 --> 4215.58] is also including -[4215.58 --> 4216.42] hatred -[4216.42 --> 4217.72] of your brother and sister. -[4217.84 --> 4218.76] He fills it up -[4218.76 --> 4219.90] with a new meaning for us. -[4219.90 --> 4221.50] And in looking -[4221.50 --> 4222.12] to Jesus -[4222.12 --> 4223.18] and the other -[4223.18 --> 4224.36] New Testament passages -[4224.36 --> 4225.40] that we begin -[4225.40 --> 4226.44] to develop then -[4226.44 --> 4227.94] our shared framework -[4227.94 --> 4228.98] for understanding -[4228.98 --> 4230.06] how we are supposed -[4230.06 --> 4231.24] to approach -[4231.24 --> 4232.40] and apply -[4232.40 --> 4233.84] the law of God -[4233.84 --> 4234.90] in Exodus 20. -[4236.08 --> 4237.08] For example, -[4237.42 --> 4237.60] right, -[4237.66 --> 4237.90] again, -[4237.98 --> 4238.94] on the Sabbath question, -[4239.34 --> 4240.04] what does it mean -[4240.04 --> 4241.68] when Jesus says -[4241.68 --> 4242.90] Sabbath was made -[4242.90 --> 4243.54] for people, -[4243.72 --> 4244.40] not people -[4244.40 --> 4245.16] for the Sabbath? -[4246.04 --> 4246.58] Or, -[4246.66 --> 4247.12] what does it mean -[4247.12 --> 4248.12] in the book of Hebrews -[4248.12 --> 4249.04] when it talks about -[4249.04 --> 4250.18] Jesus himself -[4250.18 --> 4251.74] as being the -[4251.74 --> 4252.54] sort of -[4252.54 --> 4254.02] fulfillment -[4254.02 --> 4255.82] of the Sabbath rest -[4255.82 --> 4257.42] that we were promised -[4257.42 --> 4258.14] and that we all need -[4258.14 --> 4259.08] to be found in him, -[4259.72 --> 4259.98] right? -[4260.04 --> 4261.02] Meaning that Sabbath -[4261.02 --> 4262.68] is a seven-day-a-week -[4262.68 --> 4263.86] spiritual reality, -[4263.86 --> 4265.52] not just a working -[4265.52 --> 4266.52] or a stopping -[4266.52 --> 4267.38] your work -[4267.38 --> 4268.50] physical reality. -[4269.56 --> 4270.46] At least that's -[4270.46 --> 4270.88] the framework. -[4272.26 --> 4272.44] And so, -[4272.52 --> 4273.44] as we ask the question -[4273.44 --> 4274.22] of framework, -[4274.40 --> 4275.24] as we ask this question -[4275.24 --> 4276.32] of hermeneutics, -[4276.32 --> 4278.16] it's an issue -[4278.16 --> 4279.98] of focus, -[4280.20 --> 4280.52] really. -[4281.92 --> 4282.84] Which is why, -[4282.96 --> 4283.72] in this, -[4283.78 --> 4284.36] we have to ask -[4284.36 --> 4285.84] another question. -[4286.72 --> 4287.36] And that question -[4287.36 --> 4287.56] is, -[4287.74 --> 4289.00] who are the -[4289.00 --> 4289.90] Ten Commandments -[4289.90 --> 4291.24] really about? -[4291.40 --> 4291.56] Or, -[4291.66 --> 4293.10] for whom -[4293.10 --> 4294.20] are they -[4294.20 --> 4295.14] given? -[4296.10 --> 4296.56] Now, -[4296.60 --> 4296.74] again, -[4296.80 --> 4297.28] maybe you think -[4297.28 --> 4298.24] the answer is obvious, -[4298.36 --> 4298.52] right? -[4298.52 --> 4300.48] The Ten Commandments -[4300.48 --> 4301.36] answer the question, -[4301.68 --> 4302.76] how shall we live? -[4303.10 --> 4303.50] And so, -[4303.64 --> 4304.36] by implication, -[4304.66 --> 4305.58] they are for -[4305.58 --> 4306.46] humans, -[4306.78 --> 4307.98] for and about -[4307.98 --> 4308.60] humans, -[4308.74 --> 4309.24] they are about -[4309.24 --> 4310.08] us. -[4311.26 --> 4311.78] And yet, -[4312.56 --> 4314.28] in the story, -[4314.38 --> 4314.84] as we have been -[4314.84 --> 4315.24] reading it, -[4315.30 --> 4316.06] where do we find -[4316.06 --> 4317.22] the law given? -[4319.44 --> 4320.56] Not just on the -[4320.56 --> 4321.36] mountainside -[4321.36 --> 4322.18] at Sinai, -[4323.02 --> 4323.46] but, -[4323.62 --> 4324.16] more generally, -[4324.96 --> 4325.76] in the Bible. -[4326.76 --> 4327.84] The Bible, -[4328.20 --> 4329.64] which we say, -[4329.84 --> 4331.56] as Reformed Christians, -[4331.74 --> 4332.80] as Protestant Christians, -[4332.80 --> 4333.84] as Christians -[4333.84 --> 4335.36] throughout time and space, -[4335.56 --> 4336.90] Catholic through it all, -[4337.12 --> 4338.42] we say that the Bible -[4338.42 --> 4339.36] is the true -[4339.36 --> 4340.64] and authoritative -[4340.64 --> 4341.38] revelation -[4341.38 --> 4341.98] of -[4341.98 --> 4343.50] God. -[4344.94 --> 4345.54] The -[4345.54 --> 4346.32] Belgic -[4346.32 --> 4346.98] Confession, -[4347.74 --> 4348.40] the Belgic -[4348.40 --> 4348.86] Confession -[4348.86 --> 4350.24] is a -[4350.24 --> 4351.50] statement -[4351.50 --> 4352.22] of faith -[4352.22 --> 4353.16] that our -[4353.16 --> 4353.54] church -[4353.54 --> 4354.10] and other -[4354.10 --> 4354.74] Continental -[4354.74 --> 4356.00] Reformed churches -[4356.00 --> 4356.72] have held up -[4356.72 --> 4358.00] as a good summary -[4358.00 --> 4359.40] of the teachings -[4359.40 --> 4359.96] of the Bible. -[4359.96 --> 4360.46] The Belgic -[4360.46 --> 4361.02] Confession -[4361.02 --> 4363.00] asks and says -[4363.00 --> 4363.58] in an article -[4363.58 --> 4364.02] called -[4364.02 --> 4364.46] The Means -[4364.46 --> 4365.06] By Which We -[4365.06 --> 4365.60] Know God, -[4365.92 --> 4366.38] says, -[4366.60 --> 4367.34] we know God -[4367.34 --> 4368.74] by two means. -[4369.28 --> 4369.60] First, -[4369.98 --> 4370.84] by the creation -[4370.84 --> 4371.46] and preservation -[4371.46 --> 4372.32] and government -[4372.32 --> 4373.06] of the universe, -[4373.38 --> 4374.04] and second, -[4374.36 --> 4375.34] he makes himself -[4375.34 --> 4376.44] known to us -[4376.44 --> 4377.28] more openly -[4377.28 --> 4379.02] by his holy -[4379.02 --> 4380.30] and divine -[4380.30 --> 4381.52] word. -[4382.16 --> 4383.16] The Bible -[4383.16 --> 4384.14] is the -[4384.14 --> 4385.22] holy word -[4385.22 --> 4385.60] of God. -[4385.68 --> 4386.12] It is a -[4386.12 --> 4386.80] revelation -[4386.80 --> 4387.72] of who -[4387.72 --> 4388.38] God -[4388.38 --> 4389.04] is. -[4389.46 --> 4390.04] First and -[4390.04 --> 4390.54] foremost, -[4390.74 --> 4390.92] then, -[4391.00 --> 4391.50] the Bible, -[4391.92 --> 4392.56] all of the -[4392.56 --> 4392.88] Bible, -[4393.18 --> 4393.88] is not a -[4393.88 --> 4394.56] road map -[4394.56 --> 4395.58] for how we -[4395.58 --> 4396.04] are supposed -[4396.04 --> 4396.46] to live -[4396.46 --> 4396.90] our best -[4396.90 --> 4397.60] lives now. -[4398.68 --> 4399.46] It's the -[4399.46 --> 4399.98] way that -[4399.98 --> 4400.48] God has -[4400.48 --> 4401.34] chosen to -[4401.34 --> 4402.36] reveal himself -[4402.36 --> 4403.30] to you -[4403.30 --> 4404.78] and to -[4404.78 --> 4405.16] us. -[4406.56 --> 4407.32] And so, -[4407.44 --> 4407.92] since that -[4407.92 --> 4408.52] is true -[4408.52 --> 4409.28] generally, -[4409.80 --> 4410.96] it must also -[4410.96 --> 4411.58] be true -[4411.58 --> 4412.78] specifically. -[4413.44 --> 4414.12] That is, -[4414.20 --> 4414.88] it must also -[4414.88 --> 4415.36] be true -[4415.36 --> 4415.86] of the -[4415.86 --> 4417.12] Ten Commandments. -[4418.40 --> 4418.88] And sure, -[4419.00 --> 4419.40] it's true -[4419.40 --> 4419.76] that the -[4419.76 --> 4420.50] laws here -[4420.50 --> 4422.06] reflect the -[4422.06 --> 4422.88] ways of -[4422.88 --> 4423.86] God's people -[4423.86 --> 4424.78] to be marked -[4424.78 --> 4425.40] out as -[4425.40 --> 4426.04] holy, -[4426.58 --> 4428.34] but only -[4428.34 --> 4429.34] because -[4429.34 --> 4431.32] he is -[4431.32 --> 4432.42] holy. -[4434.00 --> 4434.64] The Ten -[4434.64 --> 4435.30] Commandments -[4435.30 --> 4436.20] show us, -[4436.38 --> 4436.76] first, -[4437.10 --> 4437.80] something of -[4437.80 --> 4438.26] the very -[4438.26 --> 4439.46] person and -[4439.46 --> 4440.50] nature of -[4440.50 --> 4441.10] God. -[4441.52 --> 4442.30] They reveal -[4442.30 --> 4443.58] his heart. -[4443.58 --> 4443.62] God. -[4445.06 --> 4446.08] As Peter -[4446.08 --> 4446.46] ends, -[4446.66 --> 4446.94] says, -[4447.32 --> 4447.82] we see -[4447.82 --> 4448.46] in them -[4448.46 --> 4448.90] the Ten -[4448.90 --> 4449.46] Commandments -[4449.46 --> 4450.20] not simply -[4450.20 --> 4450.68] what we -[4450.68 --> 4451.38] must do, -[4451.72 --> 4452.34] but what -[4452.34 --> 4453.96] God is -[4453.96 --> 4454.80] like. -[4456.60 --> 4457.08] And so, -[4457.64 --> 4458.44] as a -[4458.44 --> 4458.96] foundational -[4458.96 --> 4459.96] part of -[4459.96 --> 4461.02] our shared -[4461.02 --> 4461.88] framework for -[4461.88 --> 4462.56] understanding -[4462.56 --> 4463.66] the Torah, -[4464.08 --> 4464.74] the Ten -[4464.74 --> 4465.40] Commandments, -[4465.78 --> 4466.40] we must -[4466.40 --> 4467.84] start with -[4467.84 --> 4468.44] this as a -[4468.44 --> 4469.46] revelation of -[4469.46 --> 4470.14] who God -[4470.14 --> 4471.00] is. -[4471.40 --> 4471.98] And really -[4471.98 --> 4472.82] only from -[4472.82 --> 4473.92] that point -[4473.92 --> 4474.52] of reference -[4474.52 --> 4474.96] can we -[4474.96 --> 4475.52] begin to -[4475.52 --> 4476.48] understand why -[4476.48 --> 4477.14] people -[4477.14 --> 4478.56] themselves are -[4478.56 --> 4479.66] called to -[4479.66 --> 4480.38] live by them. -[4480.96 --> 4481.56] Which then -[4481.56 --> 4482.52] brings us to -[4482.52 --> 4483.36] our second -[4483.36 --> 4483.80] sort of -[4483.80 --> 4484.50] overarching -[4484.50 --> 4485.10] question, -[4485.62 --> 4486.60] which is -[4486.60 --> 4487.78] how do -[4487.78 --> 4488.18] the Ten -[4488.18 --> 4488.82] Commandments -[4488.82 --> 4489.88] impact or -[4489.88 --> 4490.96] guide Christian -[4490.96 --> 4491.42] living, -[4491.98 --> 4493.14] if at all? -[4494.48 --> 4494.80] Now, -[4494.82 --> 4495.26] this answer is -[4495.26 --> 4495.54] going to be a -[4495.54 --> 4495.78] little bit -[4495.78 --> 4496.08] quicker, -[4497.00 --> 4498.60] and yet it is -[4498.60 --> 4499.22] the scope -[4499.22 --> 4499.76] or the -[4499.76 --> 4500.24] practical -[4500.24 --> 4500.94] implication -[4500.94 --> 4502.22] of each -[4502.22 --> 4503.12] command that -[4503.12 --> 4503.64] has been the -[4503.64 --> 4504.44] cause of so -[4504.44 --> 4505.68] much argument -[4505.68 --> 4506.46] or division -[4506.46 --> 4507.12] within Christian -[4507.12 --> 4508.18] families and -[4508.18 --> 4509.60] circles that -[4509.60 --> 4510.00] it will work -[4510.00 --> 4510.72] itself out in, -[4510.80 --> 4511.44] and you are -[4511.44 --> 4512.00] invited to -[4512.00 --> 4512.64] think about -[4512.64 --> 4513.28] that and to -[4513.28 --> 4514.06] prayerfully wrestle -[4514.06 --> 4514.48] with that -[4514.48 --> 4515.36] through the week, -[4515.46 --> 4516.36] but really you -[4516.36 --> 4516.96] only have to -[4516.96 --> 4517.46] try and tell -[4517.46 --> 4518.20] your kids that -[4518.20 --> 4518.92] they can't go -[4518.92 --> 4519.40] out on a -[4519.40 --> 4519.88] warm Sunday -[4519.88 --> 4520.42] afternoon and -[4520.42 --> 4520.94] play soccer -[4520.94 --> 4522.70] because it's -[4522.70 --> 4523.12] the Sabbath. -[4523.70 --> 4523.90] Well, -[4523.94 --> 4524.50] actually it's -[4524.50 --> 4525.36] the Lord's -[4525.36 --> 4525.56] Day, -[4526.22 --> 4526.66] which isn't -[4526.66 --> 4527.06] the Sabbath -[4527.06 --> 4527.48] because that -[4527.48 --> 4528.04] was Saturday, -[4528.04 --> 4528.92] but you see -[4528.92 --> 4529.24] we're getting -[4529.24 --> 4529.68] into another -[4529.68 --> 4530.34] question of -[4530.34 --> 4531.22] hermeneutics -[4531.22 --> 4532.04] again and -[4532.04 --> 4532.30] why. -[4533.88 --> 4534.98] Or you can -[4534.98 --> 4535.46] come by my -[4535.46 --> 4535.88] house later -[4535.88 --> 4536.40] today when I'm -[4536.40 --> 4536.74] cutting the -[4536.74 --> 4537.22] grass and you -[4537.22 --> 4537.74] can see all -[4537.74 --> 4538.60] the stares of -[4538.60 --> 4539.28] my neighbors -[4539.28 --> 4540.40] who are like, -[4540.48 --> 4540.96] isn't that the -[4540.96 --> 4542.62] pastor cutting -[4542.62 --> 4543.40] his grass on -[4543.40 --> 4543.84] Sunday? -[4544.94 --> 4545.46] If you know -[4545.46 --> 4545.80] the neighborhood -[4545.80 --> 4546.26] I live in, -[4546.30 --> 4546.66] you know why -[4546.66 --> 4547.20] that is the -[4547.20 --> 4547.40] case. -[4550.80 --> 4551.20] Now, -[4551.24 --> 4551.92] perhaps we -[4551.92 --> 4552.30] need to -[4552.30 --> 4553.02] reframe the -[4553.02 --> 4554.74] question by -[4554.74 --> 4556.28] asking why -[4556.28 --> 4556.94] do the Ten -[4556.94 --> 4557.64] Commandments -[4557.64 --> 4558.72] impact Christian -[4558.72 --> 4559.56] living? -[4560.94 --> 4561.48] Now, -[4561.50 --> 4561.82] to answer -[4561.82 --> 4562.10] that, -[4562.86 --> 4563.40] look at -[4563.40 --> 4564.84] the prologue -[4564.84 --> 4565.16] to the -[4565.16 --> 4565.48] commandments -[4565.48 --> 4566.00] themselves. -[4566.12 --> 4566.68] Verse 2 -[4566.68 --> 4568.44] of chapter 20. -[4568.54 --> 4569.02] Verse 2 -[4569.02 --> 4570.36] introduces the -[4570.36 --> 4571.28] law by -[4571.28 --> 4572.54] introducing God. -[4573.32 --> 4573.48] Right? -[4573.60 --> 4574.44] I am the -[4574.44 --> 4574.96] Lord your -[4574.96 --> 4575.50] God who -[4575.50 --> 4576.18] brought you -[4576.18 --> 4576.92] out of -[4576.92 --> 4577.24] Egypt, -[4577.44 --> 4578.24] out of -[4578.24 --> 4578.72] the land -[4578.72 --> 4580.02] of slavery. -[4580.48 --> 4581.44] These words -[4581.44 --> 4582.26] set up for -[4582.26 --> 4582.78] us the -[4582.78 --> 4584.80] mental context, -[4585.20 --> 4585.98] the frame of -[4585.98 --> 4586.80] mind from -[4586.80 --> 4587.96] which all -[4587.96 --> 4588.64] the commandments -[4588.64 --> 4589.36] following them -[4589.36 --> 4590.12] should be -[4590.12 --> 4590.42] viewed. -[4591.26 --> 4591.38] Right? -[4591.46 --> 4591.98] These words -[4591.98 --> 4592.70] remind us -[4592.70 --> 4593.50] that God, -[4593.88 --> 4594.34] Yahweh, -[4594.50 --> 4595.14] the Lord, -[4595.64 --> 4596.68] is God. -[4596.80 --> 4597.36] He is -[4597.36 --> 4597.94] Yahweh, -[4598.08 --> 4598.58] he is -[4598.58 --> 4599.34] the Lord, -[4599.34 --> 4599.64] and it -[4599.64 --> 4600.30] reminds the -[4600.30 --> 4600.94] hearers, -[4601.28 --> 4602.06] first Israel -[4602.06 --> 4602.42] in that -[4602.42 --> 4602.66] moment, -[4602.74 --> 4603.34] and now us, -[4603.68 --> 4604.42] what he -[4604.42 --> 4605.62] has done. -[4606.28 --> 4606.46] Right? -[4606.50 --> 4607.08] That God -[4607.08 --> 4607.66] has brought -[4607.66 --> 4608.68] Israel out -[4608.68 --> 4609.26] of Egypt, -[4609.44 --> 4610.26] that God -[4610.26 --> 4610.96] has carried -[4610.96 --> 4612.38] them through -[4612.38 --> 4613.44] the Sea of -[4613.44 --> 4613.74] breeds, -[4613.82 --> 4614.24] that God -[4614.24 --> 4614.84] has brought -[4614.84 --> 4615.64] them the -[4615.64 --> 4616.78] victory of -[4616.78 --> 4617.36] the Exodus, -[4617.58 --> 4617.76] that he -[4617.76 --> 4618.56] has spared -[4618.56 --> 4619.44] them as -[4619.44 --> 4619.72] they took -[4619.72 --> 4620.96] refuge under -[4620.96 --> 4621.44] the blood -[4621.44 --> 4622.00] of the Lamb. -[4623.14 --> 4623.60] Remember, -[4624.62 --> 4625.16] as we have -[4625.16 --> 4625.60] looked at -[4625.60 --> 4626.40] this book -[4626.40 --> 4627.00] of Exodus, -[4627.30 --> 4627.70] we have -[4627.70 --> 4628.24] seen how -[4628.24 --> 4628.66] each of -[4628.66 --> 4629.70] these instances -[4629.70 --> 4630.58] and stories -[4630.58 --> 4631.12] is a -[4631.12 --> 4632.30] microcosm -[4632.30 --> 4633.20] of God's -[4633.20 --> 4633.74] grand -[4633.74 --> 4634.34] redemption -[4634.34 --> 4635.14] plan for -[4635.14 --> 4635.56] the world. -[4636.02 --> 4636.06] Right? -[4636.12 --> 4636.78] The battle -[4636.78 --> 4637.74] between Pharaoh -[4637.74 --> 4638.78] and the gods -[4638.78 --> 4639.34] of Egypt -[4639.34 --> 4640.02] is a battle -[4640.02 --> 4640.88] that represents -[4640.88 --> 4641.72] the final -[4641.72 --> 4642.40] battle between -[4642.40 --> 4643.42] God and Satan, -[4643.56 --> 4644.58] God and sin. -[4644.70 --> 4645.00] And so, -[4645.12 --> 4646.16] just as God, -[4646.50 --> 4646.88] Yahweh, -[4646.98 --> 4647.42] the Lord, -[4647.52 --> 4648.00] has brought -[4648.00 --> 4648.96] Israel out -[4648.96 --> 4649.66] of slavery, -[4649.94 --> 4650.86] he, God, -[4650.94 --> 4651.40] the Lord, -[4651.48 --> 4652.00] and Jesus -[4652.00 --> 4652.84] brought us, -[4652.98 --> 4653.54] by grace -[4653.54 --> 4654.20] through faith, -[4654.48 --> 4655.40] out of slavery -[4655.40 --> 4656.10] to sin. -[4656.60 --> 4657.62] And just as God -[4657.62 --> 4658.56] carried Israel -[4658.56 --> 4659.40] through the Sea -[4659.40 --> 4659.96] of Reeds -[4659.96 --> 4660.58] and brought -[4660.58 --> 4661.28] them victory, -[4661.44 --> 4662.16] he, God, -[4662.26 --> 4662.70] the Lord, -[4662.88 --> 4663.16] Jesus, -[4663.32 --> 4663.80] has carried -[4663.80 --> 4664.94] us through -[4664.94 --> 4665.72] in baptism -[4665.72 --> 4666.42] and granted -[4666.42 --> 4667.46] us victory -[4667.46 --> 4668.46] over sin -[4668.46 --> 4669.34] and death. -[4669.34 --> 4673.04] point being, -[4673.76 --> 4674.48] by the time -[4674.48 --> 4674.94] we get -[4674.94 --> 4675.64] to Exodus -[4675.64 --> 4676.58] 20, -[4676.70 --> 4677.30] by the time -[4677.30 --> 4677.70] we get -[4677.70 --> 4678.30] to the giving -[4678.30 --> 4679.24] of the law, -[4679.80 --> 4680.16] God's -[4680.16 --> 4681.04] relationship -[4681.04 --> 4681.80] with his -[4681.80 --> 4682.50] people -[4682.50 --> 4684.02] has already -[4684.02 --> 4685.28] been established. -[4686.72 --> 4687.70] And so, -[4687.90 --> 4688.92] I believe -[4688.92 --> 4689.40] it would be -[4689.40 --> 4690.00] a mistake -[4690.00 --> 4690.62] for us -[4690.62 --> 4691.58] to conclude -[4691.58 --> 4692.32] that the law -[4692.32 --> 4693.14] functions for -[4693.14 --> 4693.64] Israel -[4693.64 --> 4694.76] as a way -[4694.76 --> 4695.62] of establishing -[4695.62 --> 4696.54] or maintaining -[4696.54 --> 4697.38] or making -[4697.38 --> 4698.64] a relationship -[4698.64 --> 4699.72] with God. -[4700.94 --> 4701.20] Right? -[4701.24 --> 4702.04] That began -[4702.04 --> 4702.62] already -[4702.62 --> 4703.10] with his -[4703.10 --> 4704.06] gracious actions -[4704.06 --> 4705.10] towards them -[4705.10 --> 4705.70] and choosing -[4705.70 --> 4706.22] them. -[4706.50 --> 4706.62] Right? -[4706.64 --> 4706.98] That began -[4706.98 --> 4707.88] already in God -[4707.88 --> 4708.76] calling out -[4708.76 --> 4709.84] and selecting -[4709.84 --> 4710.38] Abraham -[4710.38 --> 4711.14] and promising -[4711.14 --> 4711.66] that he would -[4711.66 --> 4712.04] make him -[4712.04 --> 4713.30] a great nation. -[4713.68 --> 4714.96] God reiterated -[4714.96 --> 4715.74] that and renewed -[4715.74 --> 4716.42] that promise -[4716.42 --> 4717.18] in the Acts -[4717.18 --> 4718.10] of Exodus -[4718.10 --> 4718.96] already. -[4719.62 --> 4719.76] Now, -[4720.46 --> 4721.00] if you know -[4721.00 --> 4721.48] your Bible -[4721.48 --> 4722.04] history, -[4722.48 --> 4723.80] it is true -[4723.80 --> 4724.86] that in time -[4724.86 --> 4726.28] it may have -[4726.28 --> 4727.04] come to be -[4727.04 --> 4727.60] the case -[4727.60 --> 4728.28] that the people -[4728.28 --> 4728.80] understood -[4728.80 --> 4729.46] that it was -[4729.46 --> 4730.76] by obeying -[4730.76 --> 4731.16] the law -[4731.16 --> 4731.72] they entered -[4731.72 --> 4732.54] into relationship -[4732.54 --> 4733.08] with God. -[4733.18 --> 4733.84] The Pharisees -[4733.84 --> 4734.88] in the New Testament -[4734.88 --> 4735.96] seem to make -[4735.96 --> 4736.50] that clear -[4736.50 --> 4737.02] that that is -[4737.02 --> 4737.48] the case -[4737.48 --> 4737.72] and the -[4737.72 --> 4738.20] conversations -[4738.20 --> 4739.00] that the -[4739.00 --> 4739.34] apostles -[4739.34 --> 4740.02] have to have -[4740.02 --> 4740.72] in the New Testament -[4740.72 --> 4741.56] era seem -[4741.56 --> 4741.92] to make -[4741.92 --> 4742.38] that is the -[4742.38 --> 4742.60] case. -[4742.94 --> 4743.38] But in -[4743.38 --> 4744.30] its giving -[4744.30 --> 4745.34] that is in -[4745.34 --> 4746.20] here in Exodus -[4746.20 --> 4747.36] 20 as an -[4747.36 --> 4748.46] extension of -[4748.46 --> 4748.96] the law -[4748.96 --> 4749.50] being a -[4749.50 --> 4750.40] revelation of -[4750.40 --> 4750.90] God, -[4751.38 --> 4751.88] the law -[4751.88 --> 4752.60] is an -[4752.60 --> 4753.26] act of -[4753.26 --> 4754.22] responding -[4754.22 --> 4755.46] to Israel -[4755.46 --> 4756.38] being chosen -[4756.38 --> 4757.44] of God. -[4759.14 --> 4760.02] I suggest -[4760.02 --> 4760.18] to you -[4760.18 --> 4760.52] the same -[4760.52 --> 4760.82] is true -[4760.82 --> 4761.36] for us. -[4762.06 --> 4762.66] The law -[4762.66 --> 4763.24] is about -[4763.24 --> 4764.04] God choosing -[4764.04 --> 4765.22] us and -[4765.22 --> 4766.32] us responding -[4766.32 --> 4767.22] in a manner -[4767.22 --> 4768.30] appropriate -[4768.30 --> 4769.18] to the one -[4769.18 --> 4769.56] who has -[4769.56 --> 4770.28] chosen us. -[4771.20 --> 4771.92] The law -[4771.92 --> 4772.30] then, -[4772.46 --> 4772.96] from its -[4772.96 --> 4773.68] inception, -[4774.12 --> 4775.44] is created -[4775.44 --> 4777.12] and given -[4777.12 --> 4778.86] in grace. -[4779.88 --> 4780.60] It is based -[4780.60 --> 4781.64] on God's -[4781.64 --> 4782.52] saving work -[4782.52 --> 4783.44] and they, -[4783.68 --> 4784.28] now we, -[4784.76 --> 4785.92] receive rules -[4785.92 --> 4786.54] for holy -[4786.54 --> 4787.26] living because -[4787.26 --> 4787.92] these rules -[4787.92 --> 4788.66] reflect the -[4788.66 --> 4789.22] one who has -[4789.22 --> 4790.04] saved us. -[4790.80 --> 4791.06] And by -[4791.06 --> 4791.74] following the -[4791.74 --> 4792.38] rule of life -[4792.38 --> 4793.18] given by God -[4793.18 --> 4794.12] in gratitude -[4794.12 --> 4794.92] now for what -[4794.92 --> 4795.66] he has done, -[4796.10 --> 4797.02] we are becoming -[4797.02 --> 4797.88] who he has -[4797.88 --> 4799.02] set us apart -[4799.02 --> 4800.40] to be by -[4800.40 --> 4801.04] grace through -[4801.04 --> 4801.40] faith. -[4803.40 --> 4803.96] Simply, -[4804.18 --> 4804.94] because Jesus -[4804.94 --> 4805.82] lived the life -[4805.82 --> 4806.44] I should have -[4806.44 --> 4807.62] lived and the -[4807.62 --> 4808.26] law proves that -[4808.26 --> 4808.92] I don't, -[4809.12 --> 4809.90] and because Jesus -[4809.90 --> 4810.76] died the death -[4810.76 --> 4811.76] that I deserve, -[4811.90 --> 4812.52] the just -[4812.52 --> 4813.22] punishment for -[4813.22 --> 4813.76] sin that the -[4813.76 --> 4814.42] law defines, -[4814.50 --> 4815.16] for the wages -[4815.16 --> 4816.30] of sin is -[4816.30 --> 4816.62] death. -[4816.82 --> 4817.84] Because he did -[4817.84 --> 4818.16] that, -[4818.26 --> 4819.90] I now can, -[4820.04 --> 4820.92] we now -[4820.92 --> 4821.94] together can, -[4822.10 --> 4822.96] live in -[4822.96 --> 4823.78] gratitude. -[4824.80 --> 4825.62] The law that -[4825.62 --> 4826.52] once condemned -[4826.52 --> 4827.62] me is now -[4827.62 --> 4828.64] the rule of -[4828.64 --> 4829.68] my thanksgiving. -[4832.22 --> 4832.76] The Heidelberg -[4832.76 --> 4833.92] Catechism is -[4833.92 --> 4834.36] another one of -[4834.36 --> 4835.26] those documents -[4835.26 --> 4836.34] that our church -[4836.34 --> 4837.86] has used as -[4837.86 --> 4838.90] a summary of -[4838.90 --> 4840.12] teachings of -[4840.12 --> 4840.52] the Bible. -[4841.40 --> 4841.76] If you're -[4841.76 --> 4842.16] interested in -[4842.16 --> 4842.58] any of these, -[4842.64 --> 4843.02] you can find -[4843.02 --> 4843.52] links to them -[4843.52 --> 4843.94] on our church -[4843.94 --> 4844.30] website. -[4845.32 --> 4845.98] The Catechism, -[4846.08 --> 4846.46] the Heidelberg -[4846.46 --> 4846.94] Catechism, -[4847.06 --> 4848.00] describes this -[4848.00 --> 4849.96] beautifully as -[4849.96 --> 4850.82] it begins to -[4850.82 --> 4852.10] discuss the -[4852.10 --> 4852.80] Ten Commandments -[4852.80 --> 4853.22] themselves. -[4853.38 --> 4853.78] Question and -[4853.78 --> 4854.52] answer 86 -[4854.52 --> 4855.96] asks, and I -[4855.96 --> 4856.54] think we have, -[4857.66 --> 4858.52] since we have -[4858.52 --> 4859.22] been delivered -[4859.22 --> 4860.68] from our misery -[4860.68 --> 4861.44] by grace -[4861.44 --> 4862.34] through Christ -[4862.34 --> 4863.30] without any -[4863.30 --> 4864.16] merits of our -[4864.16 --> 4865.30] own, why then -[4865.30 --> 4866.30] should we do -[4866.30 --> 4867.58] good works? -[4867.68 --> 4868.18] And this answer -[4868.18 --> 4868.70] is beautiful, -[4868.70 --> 4871.12] because Christ, -[4871.74 --> 4872.46] having redeemed -[4872.46 --> 4873.20] us by His -[4873.20 --> 4874.18] blood, is also -[4874.18 --> 4875.68] restoring us by -[4875.68 --> 4876.74] His Spirit into -[4876.74 --> 4878.20] His image, so -[4878.20 --> 4878.94] that with our -[4878.94 --> 4880.18] whole lives we -[4880.18 --> 4881.06] may show that we -[4881.06 --> 4881.92] are thankful to -[4881.92 --> 4882.62] God for His -[4882.62 --> 4883.86] benefits, so that -[4883.86 --> 4884.80] He may be praised -[4884.80 --> 4885.86] through us, so -[4885.86 --> 4886.52] that we may be -[4886.52 --> 4887.40] assured of our -[4887.40 --> 4888.10] faith by its -[4888.10 --> 4889.20] fruits, and so -[4889.20 --> 4890.14] that by our -[4890.14 --> 4891.34] godly living our -[4891.34 --> 4892.26] neighbors may be -[4892.26 --> 4893.62] won over to -[4893.62 --> 4893.98] Christ. -[4893.98 --> 4894.02] Christ. -[4895.24 --> 4896.18] Why do we -[4896.18 --> 4897.04] submit ourselves -[4897.04 --> 4898.36] willingly to the -[4898.36 --> 4899.20] Ten Commandments? -[4899.82 --> 4900.68] Because we live -[4900.68 --> 4901.54] lives of gratitude -[4901.54 --> 4902.46] to God for what -[4902.46 --> 4903.44] He has done in -[4903.44 --> 4904.62] grace through Jesus -[4904.62 --> 4905.48] Christ, and because -[4905.48 --> 4907.04] by doing so, we -[4907.04 --> 4907.92] reflect the very -[4907.92 --> 4909.20] heart and nature -[4909.20 --> 4910.26] of God, and we -[4910.26 --> 4911.48] give Him praise for -[4911.48 --> 4912.52] who He is, and -[4912.52 --> 4913.86] because by doing so, -[4913.96 --> 4915.72] we are assured of -[4915.72 --> 4916.64] the hope that we -[4916.64 --> 4918.14] have because of the -[4918.14 --> 4919.96] fruits of our faith -[4919.96 --> 4921.40] being borne out, and -[4921.40 --> 4922.86] because in doing so, -[4922.86 --> 4924.76] we might reveal God. -[4924.84 --> 4925.78] We might be used of -[4925.78 --> 4927.02] God to reveal Himself -[4927.02 --> 4929.30] to our neighbors, and -[4929.30 --> 4930.08] to win them over for -[4930.08 --> 4930.42] Christ. -[4931.16 --> 4933.14] And so, let me ask -[4933.14 --> 4935.58] again, who is the -[4935.58 --> 4936.86] law for? -[4938.36 --> 4939.12] Let me put it this -[4939.12 --> 4939.62] way, in a really -[4939.62 --> 4941.16] practical way that -[4941.16 --> 4942.34] will make sense of -[4942.34 --> 4943.50] this, hopefully, for -[4943.50 --> 4943.94] some of us. -[4945.20 --> 4946.28] The first three -[4946.28 --> 4947.62] commandments, as we -[4947.62 --> 4948.54] read them, are about -[4948.54 --> 4949.50] the being, and the -[4949.50 --> 4950.22] name, and the -[4950.22 --> 4951.80] perfection of God. -[4951.90 --> 4952.54] They are about -[4952.54 --> 4954.12] idolatry and -[4954.12 --> 4955.60] abusing God's name -[4955.60 --> 4956.86] because God's name, -[4957.00 --> 4958.06] Yahweh, is a -[4958.06 --> 4959.44] revelation of His -[4959.44 --> 4959.86] being. -[4961.04 --> 4962.06] And as Christians, -[4962.38 --> 4963.72] right, we profess the -[4963.72 --> 4965.88] absolute holiness of -[4965.88 --> 4966.26] God. -[4966.66 --> 4969.52] And so, how do you -[4969.52 --> 4971.56] feel when others -[4971.56 --> 4972.66] misuse the name of -[4972.66 --> 4972.96] God? -[4974.22 --> 4975.54] When others take the -[4975.54 --> 4976.32] Lord's name in vain, -[4976.42 --> 4976.88] is the old -[4976.88 --> 4977.36] translation. -[4978.00 --> 4978.14] Right? -[4978.18 --> 4979.26] When someone cries -[4979.26 --> 4980.54] out, oh my God, or -[4980.54 --> 4981.32] just flippantly says, -[4981.32 --> 4984.48] Jesus Christ, should -[4984.48 --> 4985.24] you be offended by -[4985.24 --> 4985.54] that? -[4987.10 --> 4988.28] Should you correct -[4988.28 --> 4990.70] non-believers, right, -[4990.74 --> 4991.32] people who aren't -[4991.32 --> 4992.68] Christian, because of -[4992.68 --> 4993.90] your offense in that -[4993.90 --> 4994.18] moment? -[4995.74 --> 4996.24] And look, let me be -[4996.24 --> 4997.38] clear, maybe you -[4997.38 --> 4999.58] should be offended, but -[4999.58 --> 5001.60] to be honest, you -[5001.60 --> 5002.72] shouldn't be surprised. -[5004.38 --> 5004.78] Right? -[5004.78 --> 5005.50] Remember to whom -[5005.50 --> 5006.14] these commands are -[5006.14 --> 5006.46] given. -[5007.28 --> 5008.30] They're given to the -[5008.30 --> 5010.16] chosen people, people -[5010.16 --> 5011.24] who have been reborn -[5011.24 --> 5012.34] by the grace of God, -[5012.42 --> 5013.00] people who have been -[5013.00 --> 5014.12] called to a new -[5014.12 --> 5014.42] life. -[5014.50 --> 5015.18] And so, it shouldn't -[5015.18 --> 5016.26] really surprise us, -[5016.28 --> 5017.24] even if it does kind -[5017.24 --> 5018.48] of offend us, that -[5018.48 --> 5019.12] people who know -[5019.12 --> 5020.40] nothing of God's new -[5020.40 --> 5021.48] way of living don't -[5021.48 --> 5022.68] live into that way of -[5022.68 --> 5022.94] living. -[5024.64 --> 5026.78] The Apostle Paul, he -[5026.78 --> 5028.86] says, the law was -[5028.86 --> 5030.38] given that trespass -[5030.38 --> 5031.36] may increase. -[5032.74 --> 5033.14] And so, whose -[5033.14 --> 5033.74] trespass? -[5033.74 --> 5034.74] Ours. -[5036.74 --> 5037.18] Ours. -[5037.82 --> 5038.18] Believers. -[5038.44 --> 5039.40] Those who are saved -[5039.40 --> 5040.46] by grace. -[5040.64 --> 5041.32] And we know that this -[5041.32 --> 5042.08] is true, because Paul -[5042.08 --> 5043.08] adds in the next line, -[5043.44 --> 5044.74] where sin increased, -[5045.00 --> 5046.82] grace also increased. -[5046.90 --> 5047.54] And so, let me ask you, -[5047.58 --> 5048.44] who receives grace? -[5049.78 --> 5051.04] The elect, the chosen. -[5051.68 --> 5051.80] Right? -[5051.84 --> 5052.84] Only the elect then -[5052.84 --> 5053.94] increase their -[5053.94 --> 5054.58] trespass. -[5054.86 --> 5055.62] The law and its -[5055.62 --> 5057.32] trespass is only truly -[5057.32 --> 5059.48] possible for God's -[5059.48 --> 5060.20] chosen. -[5060.20 --> 5062.20] And so, by chiding -[5062.20 --> 5063.30] or getting angry -[5063.30 --> 5064.92] or correcting -[5064.92 --> 5065.94] non-believing -[5065.94 --> 5067.14] individuals who do -[5067.14 --> 5067.84] something that they -[5067.84 --> 5068.76] never understood to -[5068.76 --> 5071.20] be wrong, are we -[5071.20 --> 5072.32] not sending the -[5072.32 --> 5073.46] wrong gospel -[5073.46 --> 5074.50] message? -[5075.74 --> 5077.00] Namely, that being -[5077.00 --> 5078.16] right with God is -[5078.16 --> 5079.34] primarily about how -[5079.34 --> 5080.94] we behave and not -[5080.94 --> 5081.92] primarily about what -[5081.92 --> 5082.94] God has already done -[5082.94 --> 5083.48] in Jesus. -[5084.54 --> 5084.60] Right? -[5084.88 --> 5086.76] Doing this implies -[5086.76 --> 5088.66] that God demands a -[5088.66 --> 5089.62] high moral standard -[5089.62 --> 5090.84] apart from the work -[5090.84 --> 5092.16] of Christ in order -[5092.16 --> 5093.36] to merit the work -[5093.36 --> 5094.32] of Christ. -[5095.18 --> 5096.20] But that just isn't -[5096.20 --> 5096.72] the gospel. -[5098.42 --> 5099.68] I suggest to you -[5099.68 --> 5101.28] that the proper way -[5101.28 --> 5102.24] to understand the -[5102.24 --> 5102.94] Ten Commandments, -[5103.00 --> 5103.62] the proper way to -[5103.62 --> 5105.92] understand what the -[5105.92 --> 5106.66] Heidelberg Catechism -[5106.66 --> 5107.04] and the Belgian -[5107.04 --> 5108.00] Confession are saying -[5108.00 --> 5109.96] is to see in relation -[5109.96 --> 5111.68] to how believers, -[5112.40 --> 5113.68] Christians, people who -[5113.68 --> 5114.66] call themselves -[5114.66 --> 5115.76] disciples of Jesus, -[5116.20 --> 5117.80] use the name of God -[5117.80 --> 5118.76] and how believers -[5118.76 --> 5120.02] are supposed to hold -[5120.02 --> 5121.30] each other accountable -[5121.30 --> 5122.56] in its use. -[5123.84 --> 5125.02] And so if you are a -[5125.02 --> 5125.82] Christian here this -[5125.82 --> 5126.42] morning and you -[5126.42 --> 5128.04] flippantly misuse the -[5128.04 --> 5129.08] name of God, then we -[5129.08 --> 5130.20] have a conversation to -[5130.20 --> 5130.46] have. -[5131.70 --> 5132.80] But in your work a day -[5132.80 --> 5134.04] week, if your -[5134.04 --> 5136.12] colleagues do, that's a -[5136.12 --> 5138.28] whole different reality. -[5139.96 --> 5141.20] Expecting unbelievers to -[5141.20 --> 5142.40] keep the law or even to -[5142.40 --> 5144.44] respect it blurs that -[5144.44 --> 5146.14] sharp divide between those -[5146.14 --> 5147.20] who are God's people and -[5147.20 --> 5147.84] those who aren't. -[5148.48 --> 5149.80] The law as a way of -[5149.80 --> 5151.74] gratitude is for those -[5151.74 --> 5152.20] who are. -[5154.06 --> 5156.32] Finally, I suggest to -[5156.32 --> 5158.28] you that it is holding -[5158.28 --> 5160.82] yourself to the high -[5160.82 --> 5162.34] standard of gratitude -[5162.34 --> 5164.34] that the law calls us is -[5164.34 --> 5166.34] now how we avoid the -[5166.34 --> 5168.14] so-called crisis of -[5168.14 --> 5169.66] morality that has pushed -[5169.66 --> 5171.58] so many people away from -[5171.58 --> 5173.02] the church in the culture -[5173.02 --> 5174.56] wars and in our modern -[5174.56 --> 5176.90] world. -[5176.90 --> 5179.38] The truth is keeping -[5179.38 --> 5180.96] this rule of gratitude is -[5180.96 --> 5183.00] only possible for those -[5183.00 --> 5184.46] who have been filled with -[5184.46 --> 5185.18] the Holy Spirit. -[5185.60 --> 5185.72] Right? -[5185.76 --> 5186.66] When you expect -[5186.66 --> 5188.54] perfection from those who -[5188.54 --> 5189.66] haven't been perfected by -[5189.66 --> 5191.16] the blood of Jesus, all -[5191.16 --> 5192.08] you do is push them -[5192.08 --> 5192.34] away. -[5194.40 --> 5196.42] And so precisely because -[5196.42 --> 5197.88] you have been saved by -[5197.88 --> 5199.80] grace through faith, you -[5199.80 --> 5201.78] now can hold yourself to -[5201.78 --> 5203.60] an impossibly high moral -[5203.60 --> 5204.98] standard because it's -[5204.98 --> 5206.04] still about grace. -[5206.98 --> 5207.18] Right? -[5207.24 --> 5208.04] You can't do it. -[5208.26 --> 5209.14] You can't keep it. -[5209.34 --> 5210.66] But thanks be to God, he -[5210.66 --> 5211.94] gives you the Holy Spirit -[5211.94 --> 5213.60] and he makes you able -[5213.60 --> 5214.90] because nothing is -[5214.90 --> 5215.92] impossible with God. -[5216.06 --> 5217.80] And that includes your -[5217.80 --> 5219.32] obedience to him. -[5220.32 --> 5222.24] Your response to grace -[5222.24 --> 5223.58] and gratitude looks -[5223.58 --> 5224.88] impossible to the world -[5224.88 --> 5228.02] around you because it is -[5228.02 --> 5228.78] for them. -[5232.34 --> 5235.20] But it's also incredibly -[5235.20 --> 5236.22] compelling. -[5237.80 --> 5239.54] In a world that will -[5239.54 --> 5242.66] never understand, apart -[5242.66 --> 5244.54] from their own experience -[5244.54 --> 5246.04] of that grace, that -[5246.04 --> 5247.52] gratitude lived in response -[5247.52 --> 5248.90] to God's grace is how we -[5248.90 --> 5251.16] now live to glory, for -[5251.16 --> 5252.78] giving glory to God is a -[5252.78 --> 5254.12] beautiful thing, but the -[5254.12 --> 5255.04] world will never -[5255.04 --> 5255.70] understand. -[5256.32 --> 5257.32] It won't make sense. -[5258.18 --> 5258.28] Right? -[5258.40 --> 5260.62] How is it possible for a -[5260.62 --> 5261.96] world to make sense of a -[5261.96 --> 5263.08] group of people who hold -[5263.08 --> 5264.52] themselves to an impossibly -[5264.52 --> 5266.26] high standard of Sabbath, -[5266.80 --> 5269.24] but a Sabbath that makes -[5269.24 --> 5270.58] us take care of each -[5270.58 --> 5272.08] other and makes sure that -[5272.08 --> 5272.94] none of us have anything -[5272.94 --> 5273.30] in need? -[5274.34 --> 5274.82] Right? -[5274.86 --> 5276.28] A Sabbath that rests in -[5276.28 --> 5278.26] Jesus in spite of the -[5278.26 --> 5279.86] storms that might be -[5279.86 --> 5280.96] raging around us. -[5280.96 --> 5282.68] Right? -[5282.72 --> 5283.92] The world isn't going to -[5283.92 --> 5285.44] understand a community -[5285.44 --> 5288.20] that holds itself to such -[5288.20 --> 5290.86] a high view of sex and -[5290.86 --> 5293.66] sexuality as reserved for -[5293.66 --> 5294.56] marriage between a husband -[5294.56 --> 5296.16] and wife, and yet that -[5296.16 --> 5297.94] same community is so -[5297.94 --> 5299.70] permeated by grace that -[5299.70 --> 5301.30] all, everyone feels -[5301.30 --> 5302.68] welcomed and at home. -[5304.68 --> 5307.98] You see, being a -[5307.98 --> 5309.44] Christian isn't ultimately -[5309.44 --> 5310.82] or even in the first -[5310.82 --> 5312.12] place about living -[5312.12 --> 5313.44] obediently to Jesus. -[5313.76 --> 5315.86] It's about living because -[5315.86 --> 5317.58] of Jesus. -[5319.34 --> 5320.88] By grace through faith, -[5321.12 --> 5322.70] finally, for the first -[5322.70 --> 5323.44] time, compellingly, -[5324.34 --> 5326.50] beautifully, you can have -[5326.50 --> 5327.52] life. -[5329.04 --> 5330.52] And life to the full. -[5331.56 --> 5333.52] That life looks a certain -[5333.52 --> 5336.06] way, and oh man, it is -[5336.06 --> 5337.06] beautiful. -[5337.06 --> 5339.30] It is mysterious, -[5340.20 --> 5345.14] absolutely, but it is -[5345.14 --> 5346.66] beautiful. -[5348.36 --> 5351.02] And so, as we end this, -[5353.06 --> 5355.22] don't sell yourself too -[5355.22 --> 5357.20] short by limiting the -[5357.20 --> 5359.46] power of God to enable -[5359.46 --> 5361.02] you to be obedient to his -[5361.02 --> 5363.00] high calling on your life in -[5363.00 --> 5364.80] response to his gratitude, or -[5364.80 --> 5366.28] in response to his grace as -[5366.28 --> 5367.04] you live in gratitude. -[5368.60 --> 5371.82] And second, don't push -[5371.82 --> 5373.84] other people away from the -[5373.84 --> 5374.96] grace of God that is on -[5374.96 --> 5377.18] offer by demanding of them -[5377.18 --> 5378.54] that they live as if they've -[5378.54 --> 5379.72] already received the power of -[5379.72 --> 5381.76] the Spirit, because they -[5381.76 --> 5382.86] will miss it. -[5386.28 --> 5388.26] And when we have the chance -[5388.26 --> 5391.14] to know just how beautiful and -[5391.14 --> 5395.34] mysterious that is, I for -[5395.34 --> 5397.88] one don't want anyone to miss -[5397.88 --> 5398.14] it. -[5398.78 --> 5399.02] Amen? -[5400.06 --> 5400.98] Let's pray together. -[5404.94 --> 5409.08] Lord our God, transform us. -[5410.32 --> 5412.58] Transform our hearts and lives. -[5413.14 --> 5415.30] Transform our imaginations. -[5415.30 --> 5418.80] Send us out now in the power of -[5418.80 --> 5420.28] your Spirit that we might live -[5420.28 --> 5422.06] lives of thanksgiving and -[5422.06 --> 5423.70] gratitude to you, in obedience -[5423.70 --> 5425.32] to you, because you, Lord God, -[5425.38 --> 5427.06] have made us able. -[5428.28 --> 5430.42] May we be so filled with the -[5430.42 --> 5432.62] fruit of the Spirit that though -[5432.62 --> 5434.74] it seems impossible to those who -[5434.74 --> 5436.22] do not know, there is something -[5436.22 --> 5439.90] amazingly compelling about our -[5439.90 --> 5440.20] lives. -[5440.20 --> 5445.80] May we, Lord God, be a people so -[5445.80 --> 5448.58] committed to your design and -[5448.58 --> 5450.36] intent for our life. -[5454.86 --> 5458.66] And yet, may we be a people who -[5458.66 --> 5461.48] know in the core of our being that -[5461.48 --> 5463.16] it is only by grace that we have -[5463.16 --> 5465.82] been saved through faith, that it -[5465.82 --> 5468.60] is the gift of God so that no one -[5468.60 --> 5471.52] can boast, so that no one can -[5471.52 --> 5476.68] weaponize morality, so that no one -[5476.68 --> 5480.04] would fall away because of what we -[5480.04 --> 5484.20] have done or said or not done and -[5484.20 --> 5484.72] not said. -[5486.30 --> 5490.40] Use us to show the world yourself. -[5491.18 --> 5493.26] In Jesus' name we pray. -[5493.26 --> 5494.70] Amen. -[5495.64 --> 5496.34] Amen. -[5498.60 --> 5508.86] Please stand with us. -[5518.04 --> 5523.10] Behold the wondrous mystery -[5523.10 --> 5527.68] In the dawning of the King -[5527.68 --> 5532.94] He the theme of heaven's praises -[5532.94 --> 5536.68] Roamed in frail humanity -[5536.68 --> 5542.62] In our longing, in our darkness -[5542.62 --> 5547.72] Now the light of life has come -[5547.72 --> 5552.38] Looked to Christ to condescended -[5552.38 --> 5557.64] took on flesh to ransom us -[5557.64 --> 5569.56] Come behold the wondrous mystery -[5569.56 --> 5574.32] He the perfect Son of man -[5574.32 --> 5579.38] In his living, in his suffering -[5579.38 --> 5584.64] Never trace nor stain of sin -[5584.64 --> 5589.38] See the true and better Adam -[5589.38 --> 5594.64] Come to save the hell-bound man -[5594.64 --> 5599.64] Christ the great and sure fulfillment -[5599.64 --> 5604.90] Of the law in him we stand -[5604.90 --> 5615.90] Come behold the wondrous mystery -[5615.90 --> 5620.90] Christ the Lord upon the tree -[5620.90 --> 5626.16] In the stead of ruined sinners -[5626.16 --> 5628.16] In the stead of ruined sinners -[5628.16 --> 5630.16] In the stead of ruined sinners -[5630.16 --> 5631.90] Hangs the Lamb in victory -[5631.90 --> 5635.90] See the price of our redemption -[5635.90 --> 5640.16] See the Father's plan unfold -[5640.16 --> 5645.42] Bringing many sons to glory -[5645.42 --> 5649.16] Grace unmeasured -[5649.16 --> 5652.16] Love untold -[5652.16 --> 5663.62] Come behold the wondrous mystery -[5663.62 --> 5665.16] Slain by death -[5665.80 --> 5668.16] The God of life -[5668.70 --> 5671.60] God no brave good -[5671.60 --> 5673.16] Ere restrain him -[5673.70 --> 5675.16] Praise the Lord -[5675.78 --> 5678.50] He is alive -[5678.50 --> 5690.96] Christ in power -[5690.96 --> 5691.36] Christ in power -[5691.36 --> 5691.92] Christ in power -[5691.92 --> 5693.48] Resurrected -[5693.48 --> 5698.38] As we will be when he comes -[5698.38 --> 5703.50] What a foretaste of deliverance -[5703.50 --> 5708.46] How unwavering our hope -[5708.46 --> 5709.32] Christ in power -[5709.32 --> 5711.16] Christ in power -[5711.16 --> 5713.32] Resurrected -[5713.92 --> 5719.60] As we will be when he comes -[5719.60 --> 5737.62] Go now this week with God -[5737.62 --> 5741.06] Go now into Lent with God -[5741.06 --> 5744.78] Who goes with you to enable you -[5744.78 --> 5749.26] To live the life that you are called in him to live -[5749.26 --> 5752.10] Receive his blessing -[5752.10 --> 5754.52] May God go before you -[5754.52 --> 5755.78] To lead you -[5755.78 --> 5757.86] May God go behind you -[5757.86 --> 5758.84] To guard you -[5758.84 --> 5761.02] May God go beneath you -[5761.02 --> 5762.02] To support you -[5762.02 --> 5764.08] And may God go beside you -[5764.08 --> 5765.26] To befriend you -[5765.26 --> 5767.58] Do not be afraid -[5767.58 --> 5769.92] Let the blessing of God come upon you today -[5769.92 --> 5771.60] Do not be afraid -[5771.60 --> 5773.64] But go in peace -[5773.64 --> 5776.78] To love and serve the Lord -[5776.78 --> 5778.64] Amen -[5778.64 --> 5804.22] Amen -[5804.22 --> 5818.22] Amen, Amen, Amen -[5818.22 --> 5829.14] The Lord bless you and keep you -[5829.14 --> 5833.74] Make his face shine upon you -[5833.74 --> 5836.80] And be gracious to you -[5836.80 --> 5844.02] The Lord turn his face toward you -[5844.02 --> 5851.24] And give you peace -[5851.24 --> 5861.92] The Lord bless you and keep you -[5861.92 --> 5865.98] Make his face shine upon you -[5865.98 --> 5868.98] And be gracious to you -[5868.98 --> 5875.98] The Lord turn his face toward you -[5875.98 --> 5881.04] And give you peace -[5881.04 --> 5898.04] Amen, Amen, Amen -[5898.04 --> 5913.10] Amen, Amen, Amen -[5913.10 --> 5932.16] May his favor be upon you -[5932.16 --> 5935.56] And a thousand generations -[5935.56 --> 5937.62] And your family -[5937.62 --> 5939.62] And your children -[5939.62 --> 5941.62] And their children -[5941.62 --> 5943.62] And their children -[5943.62 --> 5947.34] May his favor be upon you -[5947.34 --> 5950.62] And a thousand generations -[5950.62 --> 5952.62] And your family -[5952.62 --> 5954.62] And your children -[5954.62 --> 5956.62] And their children -[5956.62 --> 5957.62] And their children -[5957.62 --> 5958.68] And their children -[5958.68 --> 5961.68] May his favor be upon you -[5961.68 --> 5964.68] And a thousand generations -[5964.68 --> 5966.68] And your family -[5966.68 --> 5968.68] And your children -[5968.68 --> 5969.68] And their children -[5969.68 --> 5970.68] And their children -[5970.68 --> 5971.68] And their children -[5971.68 --> 5975.68] May his presence go before you -[5975.68 --> 5977.68] And behind you -[5977.68 --> 5979.74] And beside you -[5979.74 --> 5980.14] And beside you -[5980.14 --> 5980.74] And beside you -[5980.74 --> 5981.74] And all around you -[5981.74 --> 5983.74] And within you -[5983.74 --> 5984.74] He is with you -[5984.74 --> 5985.74] He is with you -[5985.74 --> 5986.74] He is with you -[5986.74 --> 5988.74] In the morning -[5988.74 --> 5989.74] In the evening -[5989.74 --> 5991.74] In your coming -[5991.74 --> 5993.74] And your going -[5993.74 --> 5994.74] In your weeping -[5994.74 --> 5996.74] And rejoicing -[5996.74 --> 5997.80] He is for you -[5997.80 --> 6010.80] He is for you -[6010.80 --> 6018.80] Amen -[6018.80 --> 6022.84] Amen -[6022.84 --> 6039.84] Amen, amen, amen, amen. -[6039.84 --> 6069.82] Amen, amen, amen, amen. -[6069.84 --> 6070.84] Amen. -[6099.84 --> 6099.98] Thank you. -[6099.98 --> 6129.96] Thank you. -[6129.98 --> 6159.96] Thank you. -[6159.98 --> 6189.96] Thank you. -[6189.98 --> 6191.98] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 1, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 1, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 4318c81e42612b1cdecfb793c3c2a7a5079b23d7..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 1, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,71 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction to worship service and welcome -• Announcements: youth coffee, pastor's class, board games night, worship leaders conference -• Call to worship from Psalm 96 -• Worship begins -• Praise and worship -• God's worthiness and majesty -• Trust in God -• Seeking refuge in God -• Spiritual strength and guidance -• Repentance and seeking forgiveness -• Importance of spending time with God -• Trusting in God's presence and power -• Confession of spiritual weakness and dependence on God's strength -• The speaker appears to be praying or singing, referencing God and Jesus multiple times. -• They mention surrendering themselves to God and giving up worldly desires. -• There is a shift in tone and topic as the conversation with Hank begins, involving training him to obey commands. -• The dialogue between the speakers involves teaching Hank to sit, shake hands, speak, and perform other actions on command. -• A child named Hank is mentioned and seems to be involved in a children's worship time -• The group prays before heading to the back room for further discussion -• Ken leads the church family prayer, including announcements about upcoming events -• The congregation prays for various needs, including salvation, special challenges, a family transitioning to Vancouver, students going through change, and new family events -• Prayers for those struggling with family and relationships -• Requests for guidance and calling in life -• Prayers for the Christian Reformed Church and its leadership -• Concerns for global issues such as war and pandemic -• Prayers for health and well-being, including physical and mental health -• Request to rely on God's faithfulness during times of change -• Prayer for Emmanuel Church and its leadership and staff -• Reflection and prayer before the sermon -• The influence of advertising and pop culture on shaping individual perspectives -• The contrast between secular messages and church teachings -• The search for meaning and purpose in life -• The concept that true satisfaction is found in glorifying God -• The human longing for something more, as expressed by St. Augustine's quote -• Moses' story is an archetypal journey that mirrors our own experiences with faith and doubt -• We all struggle with feelings of inadequacy and inability to fulfill God's call -• Moses' story begins at the bottom, where he is timid, afraid, and incapable, but eventually rises to a mountaintop experience of God's glory -• The story highlights God's promise that He will go with us and do miraculous works through us, despite our own limitations -• The power of God's presence and promises -• Moses' journey from timid to mountain top experience -• The importance of worship and prayer -• Defining the glory of God as his goodness, character, and being revealed -• God's mercy and compassion demonstrated through his actions -• God's sovereignty and independence -• The concept of glory as emanating from God -• Moses' experience of seeing a fraction of God's glory and its transformative effect on him -• The true gospel message: Jesus, who is the glory of God revealed, lived for God's glory, and died for it -• Living a life that radiates the glory of God to the world -• God wants to do the impossible and reveal his glory through believers. -• Believers must be willing to step out of their comfort zones and follow God into the unknown. -• Leaders have a responsibility to encourage and guide followers to grow in faith and take risks for God's kingdom. -• Fear and lack of imagination can hold people back from fully following God, but trust and faith are necessary for growth and transformation. -• Experiencing the glory of God changes people and enables them to reflect His radiance and point others to Him. -• The glory of the Holy Spirit's ministry is more glorious than the ministry that brought condemnation -• Comparing the transitory nature of the old covenant to the lasting glory of Christ -• The veil that covers people's hearts when reading the old covenant is removed by turning to Christ -• Being transformed into Christ's likeness with increasing glory through spiritual transformation -• Reflecting God's glory through living a life in holiness and love like Jesus -• The gospel message of eternal radiance and freedom through faith in Christ -• The speaker quotes a passage about God's presence and beauty -• The speaker requests the Lord to light a fire of holy fear in their heart -• The speaker wants to take God's word and share it with others -• The speaker expresses gratitude for God's blessing and promise to be with them -• The speaker asks not to be afraid, but rather go in peace and boldness -• The speaker quotes passages about not fearing man, knowing God's greatness, and trusting His plans -• The speaker talks about following God through trouble and overcoming the world -• Shine brighter than brightest star -• Love is pure and fills with courage and strength -• Following through wealth, power, and challenges -• Embracing change and difficulties with courage and strength -• Expression of gratitude \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 1, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 1, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 8463fb24936c8a7440eb8e4c3317e62ffb7254c6..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 1, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1054 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.56] Bay heroin -[3.10 --> 4.84] ocoart -[6.16 --> 8.30] GLOBAL -[10.58 --> 13.82] toner -[14.54 --> 21.24] remu -[21.24 --> 51.22] Thank you. -[51.24 --> 81.22] Thank you. -[81.24 --> 111.22] Thank you. -[111.24 --> 141.22] Thank you. -[141.24 --> 171.22] Thank you. -[171.24 --> 201.22] Thank you. -[201.24 --> 231.22] Thank you. -[231.24 --> 261.22] Thank you. -[261.24 --> 291.22] Thank you. -[291.24 --> 321.22] Thank you. -[321.24 --> 351.22] Thank you. -[351.24 --> 353.24] Thank you. -[381.24 --> 383.24] Thank you. -[411.24 --> 413.24] Thank you. -[441.24 --> 443.24] Thank you. -[471.24 --> 473.24] Thank you. -[501.24 --> 503.24] Thank you. -[531.24 --> 533.24] Thank you. -[561.24 --> 563.24] Thank you. -[563.24 --> 565.24] Thank you. -[565.24 --> 567.24] Thank you. -[593.24 --> 595.24] Thank you. -[595.24 --> 597.24] Thank you. -[597.24 --> 599.24] Thank you. -[623.24 --> 629.24] Good morning. -[629.24 --> 634.90] Good morning. How we doing? -[637.54 --> 643.06] Three or four of you are doing well. The rest of you are deep in conversation. Awesome. I'll wait. -[652.10 --> 654.10] This is a game of who gets uncomfortable first. -[654.10 --> 664.40] Welcome to worship. We're so glad that you are here with us this morning, whether you are here in person or if you're joining us online. -[664.60 --> 674.48] Welcome to Emanuel Church. My name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors here and it's my privilege, along with these others, to lead in worship this morning. -[675.06 --> 681.20] Before we begin, in earnest, we have a couple announcements to make and so I'm going to invite Josh to make his way up to the front here for his announcement. -[681.20 --> 696.18] While he's coming, I will simply say that after service today is youth coffee and that's for high school aged people and they're going to the Stam's house after service. -[696.36 --> 701.16] And so chat with some friends for a few minutes and then be prepared to make your way over there. -[701.16 --> 707.58] Later this afternoon, so after youth coffee, is pastor's class, which I lead. -[707.84 --> 718.26] Now, pastor's class is for those who are wondering about making profession of faith or wondering about becoming a member here in our church. -[718.36 --> 721.78] And so if that's something you're interested in, you can still sign up for that. -[721.78 --> 729.30] You can talk to me after service today, but we will meet here around 2 for that class and that time together. -[730.56 --> 731.40] Go ahead, Josh. -[732.50 --> 737.94] I'm just up here to remind the young adults that tonight at 7 p.m. is board games night at the church at 7 p.m. -[739.52 --> 743.76] Bring a board game that you think that a lot of people would like to play or a bunch of board games. -[744.20 --> 746.48] Snacks will be provided and we're going to have fun. -[746.48 --> 753.36] I always wonder if someone brings risk, do you have to commit for like the eight hours that it takes to play that game? -[754.08 --> 754.56] Yes. -[754.70 --> 754.96] Okay. -[755.78 --> 756.72] Appreciate that. -[757.32 --> 765.82] And then finally, next weekend, we are hosting a worship leaders conference here on Friday and Saturday. -[766.40 --> 771.46] And so that's primarily for those of you who are involved in the worship ministry of this church. -[771.46 --> 776.02] And so we really want to encourage you, even ask you to sign up for that. -[776.22 --> 788.86] But more generally, if you're looking for a time to gather together and to learn about community life and faith, to learn about worship as Christians, this is an opportunity to do that. -[789.12 --> 792.74] Sign up can be linked from the e-bulletin or on our church website. -[792.90 --> 793.68] You can find it there. -[793.78 --> 795.20] It's on social media in different places. -[795.20 --> 797.94] Or you can ask me for questions or details about that. -[797.94 --> 803.36] But we want to encourage you to do that and then also invite your friends and family and the like for that event. -[804.64 --> 807.34] I believe that's everything. -[807.96 --> 808.70] Let's stand. -[809.06 --> 812.86] We can enter into God's presence together in worship. -[815.08 --> 820.14] Encourage you to open your heart and receive the greeting of God. -[820.14 --> 833.54] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God, our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[834.80 --> 835.20] Amen. -[835.88 --> 836.98] Let's glorify God together. -[836.98 --> 841.56] Our call to worship this morning is from Psalm 96. -[842.56 --> 842.96] It says, -[842.96 --> 844.56] Sing to the Lord a new song. -[844.94 --> 846.52] Sing to the Lord all the earth. -[847.12 --> 848.98] Sing to the Lord and praise his name. -[849.22 --> 851.48] Proclaim his salvation day after day. -[852.12 --> 856.18] Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds amongst the people. -[856.84 --> 859.56] For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise. -[859.78 --> 861.94] He is to be feared above all gods. -[861.94 --> 882.80] I will worship. -[882.80 --> 885.18] I will worship. -[885.18 --> 888.00] With all of my heart. -[888.00 --> 890.52] With all of my heart. -[890.52 --> 893.24] I will praise you. -[893.26 --> 895.38] I will praise you. -[895.38 --> 897.80] With all of my strength. -[898.12 --> 899.84] All my strength. -[900.42 --> 902.80] I will seek you. -[902.84 --> 904.96] I will seek you. -[905.20 --> 907.28] All of my days. -[907.58 --> 909.60] All of my days. -[909.88 --> 911.76] I will follow. -[912.26 --> 914.04] I will follow. -[914.04 --> 916.68] All of your grace. -[916.96 --> 919.00] All your ways. -[919.00 --> 921.48] I will give you. -[921.48 --> 923.70] I will give you all my worship. -[923.70 --> 928.88] I will give you all my praise. -[928.88 --> 933.02] You alone I long to worship. -[933.74 --> 938.00] You alone are worthy of my name. -[938.00 --> 945.10] And I will bow down. -[945.10 --> 947.28] And hail you as king. -[947.28 --> 949.62] And I will serve you. -[949.68 --> 951.44] I will serve you. -[951.44 --> 953.54] And give you everything. -[953.54 --> 956.30] And give you everything. -[956.30 --> 958.96] And I will lift up. -[958.98 --> 960.98] I will lift up. -[960.98 --> 965.32] My eyes to your throne. -[965.32 --> 968.22] I will trust you. -[970.50 --> 972.28] Trust you alone. -[975.62 --> 979.38] I will give you all my worship. -[980.38 --> 984.58] I will give you all my praise. -[984.90 --> 988.54] You alone I long to worship. -[988.54 --> 993.92] You alone are worthy of my praise. -[993.92 --> 997.76] I will give you all my worship. -[998.58 --> 1002.52] I will give you all my praise. -[1003.22 --> 1006.88] You alone I long to worship. -[1007.78 --> 1012.80] You alone are worthy of my praise. -[1018.54 --> 1023.92] You alone are worthy of my praise. -[1023.92 --> 1029.30] You alone are worthy of my praise. -[1029.30 --> 1033.30] You alone are worthy of my praise. -[1033.30 --> 1035.30] You alone are worthy of my praise. -[1035.30 --> 1040.68] You alone are worthy of my praise. -[1040.68 --> 1049.06] Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens. -[1049.06 --> 1068.44] Your righteousness is like the mighty mountain. -[1068.44 --> 1073.82] You alone are worthy of my praise. -[1073.82 --> 1079.66] Your justice flows like the ocean's tide. -[1079.66 --> 1085.04] You alone are worthy of my praise. -[1085.04 --> 1090.42] You alone are worthy of my praise. -[1090.42 --> 1093.80] I will find the high strength. -[1093.80 --> 1094.42] I will find the high strength. -[1094.42 --> 1098.80] In the shadow of your wings. -[1098.80 --> 1099.86] You alone are worthy of my praise. -[1099.86 --> 1101.96] You alone are worthy of my praise. -[1101.96 --> 1102.06] You alone are worthy of my praise. -[1102.06 --> 1106.80] Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heaven. -[1106.80 --> 1118.92] Your faithfulness stretches to the sky. -[1118.92 --> 1127.72] Your righteousness is like a mighty mountain -[1127.72 --> 1137.72] Your justice flows like the ocean's tide -[1137.72 --> 1146.80] I will lift my high voice to worship you, my King -[1146.80 --> 1157.32] I will find my high strength in the shadow of your wings -[1157.32 --> 1166.40] I will lift my high voice to worship you, my King -[1166.40 --> 1176.20] And I will find my high strength in the shadow of your wings -[1176.20 --> 1185.72] Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens -[1185.72 --> 1195.72] Your faithfulness stretches to the sky -[1195.72 --> 1225.72] -[1225.72 --> 1229.98] And it's so easy to forget the sound of your voice when we don't spend time with you -[1229.98 --> 1233.48] O Lord, forgive us for straying from you -[1233.48 --> 1237.52] For not spending time in your presence every day in fellowship with you -[1237.52 --> 1242.20] And instead, indulging in the pleasures and the fickle promises of this world -[1242.20 --> 1244.76] You are my hiding place -[1244.76 --> 1247.12] You will protect me from trouble -[1247.12 --> 1249.62] And surround me with songs of deliverance -[1249.62 --> 1251.90] Lead us into your presence, Lord -[1251.90 --> 1254.72] Remind us to set aside time for you -[1254.72 --> 1259.32] That we may look to you for counsel, for help, and follow your leading -[1259.32 --> 1261.42] In your name we pray -[1261.42 --> 1285.94] You are my hiding place -[1285.94 --> 1295.04] You always fill my heart with songs of deliverance -[1295.04 --> 1301.18] Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in you -[1301.18 --> 1302.18] You always fill my heart with songs of deliverance -[1302.18 --> 1308.84] I will trust in you -[1308.84 --> 1311.88] That we may say I will trust in you -[1311.88 --> 1313.12] That we may say I will trust in you -[1313.12 --> 1314.86] Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in you -[1314.86 --> 1319.88] Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in you -[1319.88 --> 1321.86] You are my hiding place -[1321.86 --> 1337.64] I am strong in the truth of the friend. -[1337.64 --> 1340.44] I will trust in you. -[1341.72 --> 1344.70] I will trust in you. -[1344.70 --> 1346.98] You always will. -[1346.98 --> 1355.08] Let the weak say I am strong in your strength. -[1355.08 --> 1359.48] Of the Lord, I will trust in you. -[1361.24 --> 1364.50] I will trust in you. -[1365.96 --> 1375.78] Let the weak say I am strong in the strength of the Lord. -[1375.78 --> 1378.66] And I will trust in you. -[1378.66 --> 1383.66] Let the weak say I am strong in the strength of the Lord. -[1383.66 --> 1384.92] Not important. -[1384.92 --> 1387.54] No part of this card I know will trust in me. -[1387.62 --> 1390.66] I am strong in strength. -[1390.66 --> 1420.64] guitar solo -[1420.64 --> 1450.62] guitar solo -[1450.64 --> 1454.50] Be Thou my wisdom -[1454.50 --> 1458.76] And Thou my true word -[1458.76 --> 1462.46] I ever with Thee -[1462.46 --> 1466.12] And Thou with me, Lord -[1466.12 --> 1469.88] Thou my great Father -[1469.88 --> 1472.64] I Thine true Son -[1472.64 --> 1476.60] Thou in me dwelling -[1476.60 --> 1480.88] And I with Thee one -[1480.88 --> 1491.82] Riches I need not -[1491.82 --> 1495.56] Nor man's empty praise -[1495.56 --> 1498.60] Thou mine inheritance -[1498.60 --> 1502.74] Now and always -[1502.74 --> 1505.14] Now and now -[1505.14 --> 1510.14] Only first in my heart -[1510.14 --> 1513.28] High King of Heaven -[1513.28 --> 1517.98] My treasure Thou art -[1517.98 --> 1526.26] My King of Heaven -[1526.26 --> 1529.80] My victory won -[1529.80 --> 1534.56] May I reach Heaven's joy -[1534.56 --> 1537.78] So bright Heaven's sun -[1537.78 --> 1541.48] Heart of my own heart -[1541.48 --> 1544.80] God ever befall -[1544.80 --> 1548.42] Still be my vision -[1548.42 --> 1552.48] O Ruler of all -[1552.48 --> 1555.64] Dollars -[1555.64 --> 1556.70] Nine -[1556.70 --> 1557.50] ites -[1557.50 --> 1557.88] repeated -[1557.88 --> 1562.62] Enjoy Jetta -[1562.62 --> 1579.36] Good morning! -[1579.36 --> 1585.24] today's offerings are for the church budget and for new ground formerly named operation manna -[1585.24 --> 1591.20] which started as a food aid program in korea in the 60s as it grew and spread to other countries -[1591.20 --> 1597.20] the offerings also began to vary now the diaconal ministries carries on the program which focuses on -[1597.20 --> 1604.68] equipping churches in canada giving them financial assistance coaching resources and resources to -[1604.68 --> 1609.26] help them flourish and grow god's kingdom in new and exciting ways thank you -[1634.68 --> 1640.68] all to jesus i surrender -[1640.68 --> 1646.68] all to him i freely give -[1646.68 --> 1658.68] i will ever love and trust him in his presence daily live -[1658.68 --> 1664.68] i surrender all -[1664.68 --> 1670.68] i surrender all -[1670.68 --> 1676.68] all to thee my blessed savior -[1676.68 --> 1682.68] i surrender all -[1682.68 --> 1688.68] all to jesus i surrender -[1688.68 --> 1694.68] humbly at his feet i bow -[1694.68 --> 1700.68] worldly pleasures all forsaken -[1700.68 --> 1706.68] jesus take me now -[1706.68 --> 1710.68] i surrender -[1710.68 --> 1712.68] all -[1712.68 --> 1714.68] i surrender -[1714.68 --> 1716.68] all -[1716.68 --> 1720.68] all to thee my blessed savior -[1720.68 --> 1722.68] i surrender -[1722.68 --> 1728.68] all -[1728.68 --> 1734.68] all to jesus i surrender -[1734.68 --> 1736.68] my -[1736.68 --> 1738.68] me -[1738.68 --> 1760.68] time -[1760.68 --> 1762.68] mine -[1762.68 --> 1773.66] All to thee, my blessed Savior, I surrender all. -[1792.68 --> 1822.66] All to thee, my blessed Savior, I surrender all. -[1822.68 --> 1852.66] All to thee, my blessed Savior, I surrender all. -[1852.68 --> 1854.68] All to thee, my blessed Savior, I surrender all. -[1854.68 --> 1858.68] All to thee, my blessed Savior, I surrender all. -[1858.68 --> 1862.68] All to thee, my blessed Savior, I surrender all. -[1862.68 --> 1863.68] You swallowed it? -[1863.68 --> 1865.68] That's what I do too. -[1865.68 --> 1866.68] One times the tomb fairy cave. -[1866.68 --> 1867.68] Wow, lucky! -[1867.68 --> 1868.68] Now, Hank. -[1868.68 --> 1869.68] Yeah? -[1869.68 --> 1870.68] You! -[1870.68 --> 1873.68] Should I see if he can listen to me and see if he knows how to follow commands? -[1873.68 --> 1874.68] Yeah? -[1874.68 --> 1875.68] All right, Hank, are you ready? -[1875.68 --> 1876.68] Mm-hmm. -[1876.68 --> 1877.68] All right. -[1877.68 --> 1878.68] Ask me anything. -[1878.68 --> 1879.68] All right, Hank. -[1879.68 --> 1880.68] Yeah? -[1880.68 --> 1881.68] Sit. -[1881.68 --> 1882.68] He did it! -[1882.68 --> 1883.68] Yeah! -[1883.68 --> 1884.68] Pretty good, right? -[1884.68 --> 1885.68] Hank, shake. -[1885.68 --> 1886.68] You need to reach closer. -[1886.68 --> 1887.68] Oh. -[1887.68 --> 1888.68] He did it! -[1888.68 --> 1889.68] Hank! -[1889.68 --> 1890.68] That's pretty good. -[1890.68 --> 1891.68] Yeah, I'm pretty good. -[1891.68 --> 1892.68] All right, let's try a couple more. -[1892.68 --> 1893.68] Hank! -[1893.68 --> 1894.68] Yeah? -[1894.68 --> 1895.68] Yeah. -[1895.68 --> 1896.68] Speak! -[1896.68 --> 1897.68] Well, that's easy. -[1897.68 --> 1898.68] Hi! -[1898.68 --> 1899.68] Well, that's pretty good. -[1899.68 --> 1900.68] Well, you're speaking to him. -[1900.68 --> 1901.68] I don't think so. -[1901.68 --> 1902.68] Should we see if you can do one more? -[1902.68 --> 1903.68] Yeah. -[1903.68 --> 1904.68] Hank! -[1904.68 --> 1905.68] Yeah! -[1905.68 --> 1906.68] Maybe down. -[1906.68 --> 1907.68] Down? -[1907.68 --> 1908.68] Okay. -[1908.68 --> 1909.68] Hank, down. -[1909.68 --> 1910.68] I can't. -[1910.68 --> 1911.68] Why not? -[1911.68 --> 1912.68] Lay down. -[1912.68 --> 1913.68] Because you have to. -[1913.68 --> 1914.68] Oh, yeah, right. -[1914.68 --> 1915.68] Hey! -[1915.68 --> 1916.68] He did it! -[1916.68 --> 1917.68] Yeah! -[1917.68 --> 1918.68] Maybe honk your hand. -[1918.68 --> 1919.68] I can't. -[1919.68 --> 1920.68] Why not? -[1920.68 --> 1921.68] Lay down. -[1921.68 --> 1922.68] Because you have to. -[1922.68 --> 1923.68] Oh, yeah, right. -[1923.68 --> 1924.68] Hey! -[1924.68 --> 1925.68] He did it! -[1925.68 --> 1926.68] Yeah! -[1926.68 --> 1927.68] Maybe honk your hand. -[1927.68 --> 1928.68] Maybe honk your nose. -[1928.68 --> 1930.68] Hank, honk your nose! -[1930.68 --> 1931.68] Huh? -[1931.68 --> 1932.68] Honk your nose! -[1932.68 --> 1933.68] Yeah, I have to do it for you! -[1933.68 --> 1934.68] I can't! -[1934.68 --> 1939.68] All right, so, we're going to go to children's worship time, because there's a command that -[1939.68 --> 1943.68] Jesus gave us before he ascended to heaven, and that's going to be our story today. -[1943.68 --> 1947.68] So, we're going to hear about his command to us, and see if we can follow that command, -[1947.68 --> 1949.68] just like Hank followed all of these. -[1949.68 --> 1950.68] Good idea! -[1950.68 --> 1951.68] Should I bring Hank, maybe? -[1951.68 --> 1952.68] Maybe Hank can help us out back there. -[1952.68 --> 1953.68] Yeah! -[1953.68 --> 1954.68] Should I do that? -[1954.68 --> 1955.68] You want to come, Hank? -[1955.68 --> 1956.68] Yeah! -[1956.68 --> 1957.68] I want to. -[1957.68 --> 1958.68] He's going to come with us, okay? -[1958.68 --> 1959.68] Okay! -[1959.68 --> 1962.68] Well, I think I'm going to hold him, because otherwise there's going to be riots in the -[1962.68 --> 1963.68] streets. -[1963.68 --> 1964.68] Make something, Hank. -[1964.68 --> 1965.68] What's that? -[1965.68 --> 1966.68] Make something? -[1966.68 --> 1967.68] We'll see if you can do it in the back, okay? -[1967.68 --> 1968.68] First, let's pray. -[1968.68 --> 1970.68] Let's pray, and then we'll go in the back, we'll talk more, okay? -[1970.68 --> 1971.68] All right. -[1971.68 --> 1972.68] Let's pray. -[1972.68 --> 1973.68] Dear God, thank you so much for this day. -[1973.68 --> 1976.68] Thank you that we could be in church today, and that we could worship you here, and learn -[1976.68 --> 1978.68] more about what it is to follow you. -[1978.68 --> 1982.68] We pray that you'll be with us kids as we head to the back, and learn about this wonderful -[1982.68 --> 1985.68] command that you gave us before you went to heaven. -[1985.68 --> 1987.68] And we pray for those who are staying back here in the sanctuary. -[1987.68 --> 1989.68] May they learn more about you as well. -[1989.68 --> 1990.68] We pray this in your name. -[1990.68 --> 1991.68] Amen. -[1991.68 --> 1992.68] All right. -[1992.68 --> 1993.68] We're going to do the children's blessing first. -[1993.68 --> 1995.68] Oh, see you, Malachi. -[1995.68 --> 1996.68] All right. -[1996.68 --> 1997.68] Stand up. -[1997.68 --> 1998.68] Stand up. -[1998.68 --> 1999.68] Stand up. -[1999.68 --> 2002.68] So what we do is we put our hands like this, and we look at the church, and then we -[2002.68 --> 2004.68] put them down, and we say, the Lord be with you, okay? -[2004.68 --> 2005.68] So let's all look out there. -[2005.68 --> 2006.68] Hank will do it too. -[2006.68 --> 2007.68] Hank will do it too. -[2007.68 --> 2009.68] Okay, let's look out there, and let's say it together. -[2009.68 --> 2011.68] The Lord be with you. -[2011.68 --> 2013.68] And also with you. -[2013.68 --> 2016.68] Okay, let's head to the children's worship time room. -[2016.68 --> 2039.68] Good morning. -[2039.68 --> 2044.68] My name is Ken, and I'm an elder here at Emanuel Christian Forum Church. -[2044.68 --> 2048.68] And this morning, I will be leading us in our church family prayer. -[2048.68 --> 2051.68] First, a couple brief announcements. -[2051.68 --> 2054.68] Next week, we will be sharing in the Lord's Supper. -[2054.68 --> 2059.68] So take time this week to reflect on that, prepare your hearts, talk to your kids and -[2059.68 --> 2064.68] your families about that, and we will gather around the table next week. -[2064.68 --> 2071.68] Also, we are in the nomination process still for additional elders and deacons for council, -[2071.68 --> 2073.68] and we're still looking for additional nominations. -[2073.68 --> 2079.68] So you are encouraged to grab a form at the back table in the foyer if you have someone -[2079.68 --> 2084.68] that you have thought of nominating, and connect with them and go through the nomination process -[2084.68 --> 2087.68] as outlined on the form and also in your e-bulletins. -[2087.68 --> 2094.68] Yeah, at this point, we will turn to our Lord in prayer as a congregation together. -[2094.68 --> 2103.68] Our Father in heaven, how good it is to be here together today to worship and meet with you as your people. -[2103.68 --> 2106.68] As we have just sung, I surrender all. -[2106.68 --> 2110.68] Today, in this time, Lord, we surrender our needs to you. -[2110.68 --> 2113.68] We surrender our thanksgiving to you and our praise to you. -[2113.68 --> 2122.68] All that we have comes from you, and you live through us and are the one to get credit for all that we have in our lives. -[2122.68 --> 2131.68] And Lord, we thank you for the gift of salvation that you bring into our lives and that you enable us to be your people and to be your church. -[2131.68 --> 2140.68] Lord, we thank you for all those in our midst who have special needs and special challenges at this time as well. -[2140.68 --> 2149.68] Lord, we pray for the family from Columbia that was with us for the last couple of weeks, Sebastian, Sandy, Sarah, and Julieta, as they have left for Vancouver. -[2149.68 --> 2154.68] Lord, thank you for the opportunity we have had to be part of their lives and part of their story. -[2154.68 --> 2161.68] And now we ask God that you lead them and help them to find a permanent place and your calling on their lives here in Canada. -[2161.68 --> 2169.68] We pray, Lord, for all those in our congregation who are going through different change, whether it be college and university students whose semester just ended -[2169.68 --> 2176.68] and who may be traveling and have been graduating or are currently graduating, and some who are staying where they were going to school. -[2176.68 --> 2180.68] Lord, please show them your will for their lives. -[2180.68 --> 2188.68] We pray for people who are in our congregation who have had new marriages, new children, new different family events. -[2188.68 --> 2197.68] Lord, we pray that you would help them to grow and to adjust and to be able to turn to you for all their strength and all their needs. -[2197.68 --> 2210.68] Lord, we pray for those who have had struggles with family situations, Lord, with being estranged from loved ones or from broken marriages. -[2210.68 --> 2216.68] Lord, help us to lean on you and to count on you to help and restore us. -[2216.68 --> 2220.68] Lord, we seek your calling in all of our lives. -[2220.68 --> 2229.68] Some of us are on the outside looking like we have things together and stable, and yet there's always struggles internally, Lord. -[2229.68 --> 2239.68] And I pray that you would just help us to turn to you for guidance, whether it be to continue on the path we're on or to find the calling that you have set out for us. -[2239.68 --> 2250.68] Lord, I pray for our church, for the denomination, for the Christian Reformed Church, as CRC Canada has a new transitional executive director, Al Postma. -[2250.68 --> 2257.68] Lord, bless Reverend Postma with what he needs to do this challenging and important work at this challenging time. -[2257.68 --> 2268.68] Lord, thank you for the work that our pastor, Pastor Chris, was able to do in contributing to the search committee to enable Pastor Al to be brought into this position. -[2268.68 --> 2279.68] Lord, I pray now that you would continue on with the work of the CRC through him and that our church would be vibrant and be the body of Christ to the world around us. -[2279.68 --> 2282.68] Lord, we pray for our world. -[2282.68 --> 2287.68] Lord, we pray for all of the challenges and difficulties that are currently lingering. -[2287.68 --> 2295.68] We pray for the ongoing effects of the pandemic we've been through and that's still going, for those who have health concerns related to it, -[2295.68 --> 2301.68] and for those who are struggling with different challenges that came through the response. -[2301.68 --> 2305.68] Lord, we pray for the people in Ukraine and for the war that's going on. -[2305.68 --> 2312.68] There's so many refugees stuck in beseeched places like Mariupol and who have left the country as well. -[2312.68 --> 2318.68] God, we ask that you be with all of them, especially the children who are suffering as this crisis deteriorates. -[2318.68 --> 2324.68] For those who are anxious and fearful and for those who are injured, who have been bereaved, who have lost their lives. -[2324.68 --> 2331.68] Lord, we ask that you would continue to be the one that we turn to for strength. -[2331.68 --> 2338.68] And also, Lord, that you would stir the hearts of people who are in leadership and who have the position to be able to affect change. -[2338.68 --> 2341.68] And ultimately, Lord, that you would help bring peace. -[2341.68 --> 2344.68] We pray for people who are struggling with their health. -[2344.68 --> 2348.68] Lord, whether it's physical health, we ask that you would heal their bodies. -[2348.68 --> 2354.68] Lord, for those who struggle with mental health, with anxiety and depression, it's so prevalent, Lord. -[2354.68 --> 2363.68] We all have these challenges at times and we ask God that you would change our minds and change our hearts and heal us of these ailments. -[2363.68 --> 2380.68] Lord, for those who are struggling with different concerns, for some, the current situation economically can be anxiety-provoking with inflation change and interest rates, supply chain uncertainties, and all these different changes that keep happening around us. -[2380.68 --> 2385.68] Lord, when there's change in our world, the one thing we can rely on is that you never change. -[2385.68 --> 2390.68] Your faith and your grace and your faithfulness is never ailing, Lord. -[2390.68 --> 2395.68] And we pray that you would help us to turn and rely on you for that. -[2395.68 --> 2398.68] Lord, we also pray for Emmanuel Church. -[2398.68 --> 2400.68] Amongst us here, we have our leadership and our staff. -[2400.68 --> 2410.68] We pray as we're going through the elder and deacon nomination process that you would stir the hearts of those that you would call to serve to step forward for that call. -[2410.68 --> 2418.68] And we also ask that you would encourage us to reach out and to nominate our brothers and sisters that we feel would be good to serve in your church. -[2418.68 --> 2429.68] And Lord, we pray now as we go into the service and as we have your message preached to us, that we would be able to hear your word and grow and change through it. -[2429.68 --> 2434.68] And that through us, we could grow your church and change the world, Lord. -[2434.68 --> 2439.68] And that you would continue to work in our lives and through our lives in all we do. -[2439.68 --> 2446.68] We pray this in Jesus name. Amen. -[2446.68 --> 2448.68] Thanks, Kevin. -[2448.68 --> 2449.68] Thanks, Kevin. -[2459.68 --> 2466.68] This morning, we're going to jump back into the book of Exodus one more time. -[2466.68 --> 2473.68] So we're going to end off the series that we've been doing with this last message together. -[2473.68 --> 2476.68] We're going to read from Exodus 34. -[2476.68 --> 2480.68] So I encourage you, if you have a Bible to open it up, find Exodus 34. -[2480.68 --> 2483.68] Exodus is the second book of the Bible. -[2483.68 --> 2487.68] So if you start at the beginning and start turning pages, you'll get there pretty quickly. -[2487.68 --> 2493.68] We're going to read from Exodus 34, starting at verse 29 through the end of that chapter there. -[2493.68 --> 2502.68] It will be on the screen, but I do encourage you, as always, to have your own Bible and keep that handy as we look and make reference and jump around together. -[2502.68 --> 2508.68] Let's read from Exodus 34. -[2508.68 --> 2515.68] When Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tablets of the covenant law in his hands, -[2515.68 --> 2521.68] he was not aware that his face was radiant because he had spoken with the Lord. -[2521.68 --> 2528.68] When Aaron and all the Israelites saw Moses, his face was radiant and they were afraid to come near him. -[2528.68 --> 2532.68] But Moses called to them. -[2532.68 --> 2537.68] And so Aaron and all the leaders of the community came back to him and he spoke to them. -[2537.68 --> 2545.68] Afterward, all the Israelites came near him and he gave them all the commands the Lord had given him on Mount Sinai. -[2545.68 --> 2550.68] When Moses finished speaking to them, he put a veil over his face. -[2550.68 --> 2557.68] But whenever he entered the Lord's presence to speak with him, he removed the veil until he came out. -[2557.68 --> 2564.68] And when he came out and told the Israelites what had been commanded, they saw his face was radiant. -[2564.68 --> 2571.68] Then Moses would put the veil back over his face until he went in to speak with the Lord. -[2571.68 --> 2574.68] This is the word of the Lord. -[2574.68 --> 2586.68] Okay, I want to begin this morning with a little bit of a test of your consumer knowledge. -[2586.68 --> 2591.68] So I'm going to start a slogan, a line, and I want you to finish it. -[2591.68 --> 2592.68] Okay. -[2592.68 --> 2596.68] Maybe she's born with it. -[2596.68 --> 2598.68] Maybe it's Maybelline. -[2598.68 --> 2599.68] All right. -[2599.68 --> 2600.68] This side is stronger so far. -[2600.68 --> 2601.68] You guys got work to do here. -[2601.68 --> 2602.68] All right. -[2602.68 --> 2605.68] You're richer than you think. -[2605.68 --> 2606.68] All right. -[2606.68 --> 2607.68] Point for Scotia Bank. -[2607.68 --> 2608.68] That's my bank, by the way. -[2608.68 --> 2609.68] Scotia. -[2609.68 --> 2610.68] Let's talk. -[2610.68 --> 2614.68] Dream to the max. -[2614.68 --> 2617.68] Oh, that's the lottery one. -[2617.68 --> 2618.68] Hmm. -[2618.68 --> 2619.68] Right. -[2619.68 --> 2630.68] Between meme culture and social media and advertising, we are inundated with all sorts of messages from the culture that we live in. -[2630.68 --> 2641.68] So much so that even if you haven't consciously paid attention to a TV commercial or a meme for the last 20 years of your life, you knew those lines. -[2641.68 --> 2643.68] Because that's how they work. -[2643.68 --> 2651.68] They creep their way in and they shape us and they define us and eventually they come to define what we believe it means to be human. -[2651.68 --> 2655.68] What we think life is really all about. -[2655.68 --> 2659.68] We're going to throw something up on the screen there and you can see some of them. -[2659.68 --> 2666.68] Now, seeing those things behind me, we're not going to read all of them, of course. -[2666.68 --> 2677.68] You can as I talk here, but let me put it in a language that you may be more familiar with since you're sitting here in church on Sunday or you're watching online or maybe later in the week. -[2677.68 --> 2690.68] Seven days a week, from the moment that you wake up and look at your phone or turn on the radio or ask Alexa to play your favorite music or for Siri to give you your daily news briefing. -[2690.68 --> 2706.68] Seven days a week, whether you open Instagram or TikTok, YouTube or Twitter, these pop cultural prophets are speaking a gospel message to us that promises a good life, a meaningful life, a full life. -[2706.68 --> 2710.68] If we only but followed our hearts. -[2710.68 --> 2722.68] These are the gospel messages we hear six or seven days a week and try as we might, they creep their way into our thinking, into our desiring, into our living and our loving. -[2722.68 --> 2733.68] Every waking moment we are told, overcome and overwhelmed by ideas that the world is all about me. -[2733.68 --> 2740.68] My life, my stuff, my status, my power, another church word, my glory. -[2740.68 --> 2748.68] And then, for an hour on Sunday morning, an hour and a half maybe, we come here. -[2748.68 --> 2751.68] We have a chance to hear something different. -[2751.68 --> 2759.68] Now, however many hours of the week that we hear these other messages, we have an hour and a half together to try and hear a different one. -[2759.68 --> 2761.68] To hear something different. -[2761.68 --> 2764.68] Now, maybe you come here looking for something different. -[2764.68 --> 2771.68] Maybe you come here this morning looking for something that lasts, something that's real, something that will fill your hearts. -[2771.68 --> 2778.68] That having even one of these other messages just can't seem to do. -[2778.68 --> 2784.68] In short, we come here looking for God. -[2784.68 --> 2793.68] I was talking to a guy recently who had just started for a couple months in his journey of faith and church. -[2793.68 --> 2803.68] And prior to this time in his life, he was a relatively young man, his whole life had been driven by the idea of wealth and status. -[2803.68 --> 2811.68] The power that came from what would one day be his sort of C-suite position in life as a CEO of a large company. -[2811.68 --> 2816.68] But his ideas of life and meaning were beginning to change, beginning to shift. -[2816.68 --> 2823.68] And he didn't quite yet have the vocab or the experience to make sense of it. -[2823.68 --> 2831.68] And as we talked, he told me about all his pursuits of wealth, his chasing after women and drink and drugs. -[2831.68 --> 2836.68] And really, by all outward accounts, by the standards of society, he had made it. -[2836.68 --> 2840.68] Right? He was not yet 30. He was making six figures in salary. -[2840.68 --> 2844.68] In fact, for some of you, this is really on point here. -[2844.68 --> 2850.68] This is how wealthy he was. He owned a house. -[2850.68 --> 2864.68] And as we talked, he started to convey that all of that stuff just wasn't feeling right to him or wasn't feeling the satisfactory to him. -[2864.68 --> 2871.68] His satisfaction with everything that was previously bringing him meaning and purpose in life just didn't do it anymore. -[2871.68 --> 2876.68] His joy in the former things didn't get him as up as it used to. -[2876.68 --> 2882.68] And as we talked, he started communicating a longing that he couldn't quite put into words. -[2882.68 --> 2888.68] It was fascinating to watch him process this. A longing for something more. -[2888.68 --> 2907.68] And as I listened, I couldn't help but think of the words of St. Augustine, who's a fourth century church father from North Africa, who says that you have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it rests in you. -[2907.68 --> 2916.68] And as I shared those words with him, the past few months of his life just sort of became clearer. -[2916.68 --> 2924.68] Right? He understood, or at least was getting the vocabulary to understand, something deep within him, a longing that he couldn't before express. -[2924.68 --> 2938.68] Right? The truth of human life is that real satisfaction is only truly, meaningfully, genuinely found in the glory of God, in glorifying God. -[2938.68 --> 2943.68] And that is what this text is about in Exodus 34. -[2943.68 --> 2947.68] That's really what our whole series in Exodus has been about. -[2947.68 --> 2955.68] Right? It is only in and out of a relationship to God that your life becomes radiant. -[2955.68 --> 2960.68] Right? Glory in God, and then you will have the good life. -[2960.68 --> 2964.68] Contrary to what the fitness institution might want to tell you. -[2964.68 --> 2969.68] Even when it's not actually good or easy, or even when you're not actually rich, -[2969.68 --> 2974.68] there's something about experiencing the glory of God that transcends all these other things. -[2974.68 --> 2986.68] That's the freedom, to put it in our Exodus series language, of being taken out of captivity to these other things and into covenant, into relationship with God. -[2986.68 --> 2992.68] Now, as we read the story of Moses coming down from a mountaintop experience of God, -[2992.68 --> 2998.68] we have to remember that Moses' story doesn't start on that mountaintop. -[2998.68 --> 3009.68] We find Moses here after almost a lifetime of experiences and questions and doubts and wandering, literally and metaphorically. -[3009.68 --> 3013.68] In lots of ways, right, Moses' journey is sort of archetypal. -[3013.68 --> 3015.68] It's a pattern of our own. -[3015.68 --> 3019.68] Moses is a stand-in for our stories. -[3019.68 --> 3024.68] Not to overstate the case, but we are all like Moses. -[3024.68 --> 3033.68] Now, I say that and I know that, well, I'm assuming, actually, that none of you were born and put in a basket and then put down the Fraser River at some point in your life, right? -[3033.68 --> 3040.68] Nobody here, at least to my knowledge, if you were, then let's talk, was born in a royal home, right? -[3040.68 --> 3049.68] Few of us have experienced the privilege and the status that comes from an upbringing that that, like, that kind of upbringing could afford. -[3049.68 --> 3056.68] I'm also, I'll say 98% confident that nobody here has killed a man coming to the defense of another person -[3056.68 --> 3061.68] and then run out of that life of privilege into the foothills and wandering of the Egyptian wilderness. -[3061.68 --> 3066.68] Again, if that's your story, I want to hear it too, so grab me after. -[3066.68 --> 3071.68] When I say we're all like Moses, I don't mean that we've all had the same experiences of Moses. -[3071.68 --> 3075.68] I mean that we've had similar thoughts and struggles and doubts. -[3075.68 --> 3082.68] Because you see, when it comes to Moses' faith in God, Moses started at the bottom and he worked his way up. -[3082.68 --> 3087.68] And so maybe you're on the mountaintop of your faith and relationship to God right now. -[3087.68 --> 3090.68] But you all know you didn't start there. -[3090.68 --> 3097.68] Maybe you're at the beginning of a relationship of, and faith, and with God. -[3097.68 --> 3099.68] But I promise you this, right? -[3099.68 --> 3106.68] If you pursue God's glory with a diligence, the same diligence that you pursued your degree with, -[3106.68 --> 3113.68] or the same diligence that you pursue that promotion with, or that same diligence and intentionality that you pursued your spouse with, -[3113.68 --> 3118.68] I promise you, if you pursue God that way, you will not be left at the beginning. -[3118.68 --> 3122.68] Maybe you've been in this journey for a while, but now you want something more. -[3122.68 --> 3125.68] Your heart is stirring. -[3125.68 --> 3127.68] God wants to take you there. -[3127.68 --> 3135.68] By the time we get to the story that we read this morning, Moses has been on a 40-year journey. -[3135.68 --> 3136.68] Right? -[3136.68 --> 3140.68] And when we read this text, don't forget where Moses started. -[3140.68 --> 3146.68] Because he started his journey timid and afraid and utterly incapable. -[3146.68 --> 3147.68] Right? -[3147.68 --> 3154.68] Maybe you recall the story, but in Exodus 3, you can read that Moses was wandering in the wilderness after he had fled from Egypt. -[3154.68 --> 3158.68] And there was a bush that was burning and would not be consumed. -[3158.68 --> 3161.68] And God spoke to him there in that moment. -[3161.68 --> 3166.68] God spoke to Moses and called him to what was an impossible task. -[3166.68 --> 3169.68] And how did Moses respond? -[3169.68 --> 3170.68] Right? -[3170.68 --> 3173.68] He said, I can't. -[3173.68 --> 3175.68] I don't speak good. -[3175.68 --> 3176.68] I can't do that. -[3176.68 --> 3179.68] I don't have the presence or the power. -[3179.68 --> 3184.68] The people won't even listen to me, let alone that Pharaoh guy. -[3184.68 --> 3189.68] That's the Moses we know to be in us. -[3189.68 --> 3190.68] Right? -[3190.68 --> 3193.68] We've all felt inadequate and unable and incapable. -[3193.68 --> 3196.68] We've all doubted. -[3196.68 --> 3206.68] Have you ever felt God or God through others calling you to something great or something new or something different? -[3206.68 --> 3210.68] Something that you just felt that you were totally incapable of doing? -[3210.68 --> 3212.68] And we say, I'm not good enough. -[3212.68 --> 3213.68] I'm not strong enough. -[3213.68 --> 3214.68] I'm not pervasive enough. -[3214.68 --> 3216.68] I'm not persuasive enough. -[3216.68 --> 3217.68] Sorry. -[3217.68 --> 3218.68] I'm not talented enough. -[3218.68 --> 3219.68] I'm not old enough. -[3219.68 --> 3220.68] Or I'm too old. -[3220.68 --> 3221.68] Right? -[3221.68 --> 3228.68] Whatever it is, we resonate with Moses' insecurities and his ideas of inadequacy. -[3228.68 --> 3232.68] Moses was called to a project that was too big for him. -[3232.68 --> 3233.68] Right? -[3233.68 --> 3234.68] Too unsafe for him. -[3234.68 --> 3235.68] Too uncomfortable. -[3235.68 --> 3237.68] And he doubted himself. -[3237.68 --> 3240.68] And in doubting himself, he doubted God. -[3240.68 --> 3244.68] But God gave him a promise there in that bush. -[3244.68 --> 3250.68] God promised that he would do miraculous works to convince the people and to convince Pharaoh. -[3250.68 --> 3254.68] God promised that Moses' brother Aaron would go with him and speak on his behalf. -[3254.68 --> 3260.68] God promised, most importantly and most profoundly, that God himself would go. -[3260.68 --> 3264.68] I am will go with you. -[3264.68 --> 3265.68] Right? -[3265.68 --> 3271.68] The answer to Moses' persistent pattern of I can't was not God saying, yes, you can, Moses. -[3271.68 --> 3274.68] The answer was, I can. -[3274.68 --> 3275.68] God can. -[3275.68 --> 3276.68] I will. -[3276.68 --> 3277.68] I am. -[3277.68 --> 3278.68] Says God. -[3278.68 --> 3284.68] And so whether you're on the mountain top or in the dark valley of life below, whether -[3284.68 --> 3290.68] you are halfway up or if you're sliding back down, hear God's voice this morning saying -[3290.68 --> 3295.68] to you, I can, I will, I am. -[3295.68 --> 3305.68] And when God called Moses to an impossible task, he said, I am with you. -[3305.68 --> 3311.68] And when Jesus commissioned his disciples to another impossible task, to go into every -[3311.68 --> 3312.68] nation. -[3312.68 --> 3316.68] And remember this, this is places that are hostile, places that are unknown, places that -[3316.68 --> 3320.68] are violent, places that want to kill them and overwhelm them. -[3320.68 --> 3325.68] Jesus says, go live lives that will never be safe or comfortable or secure. -[3325.68 --> 3332.68] Go into every nation and baptize them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the -[3332.68 --> 3336.68] Holy Spirit and teach them to obey everything I have commanded you. -[3336.68 --> 3345.68] He also said then, and surely I am with you always to the very end of the age. -[3345.68 --> 3347.68] You see, there is no trial. -[3347.68 --> 3348.68] There is no tribulation. -[3348.68 --> 3349.68] There is no struggle. -[3349.68 --> 3356.68] There is no unsafe place or no uncomfortable task that Jesus isn't in the midst of with -[3356.68 --> 3357.68] us. -[3357.68 --> 3361.68] He can, he will, he is. -[3361.68 --> 3368.68] And it's that truth that Moses, that takes Moses from hiding in the wilderness and full -[3368.68 --> 3372.68] of excuses to standing on the mountain top with God. -[3372.68 --> 3378.68] It is that truth that takes Moses from I can't to God did, God can and God will. -[3378.68 --> 3379.68] God will again. -[3379.68 --> 3385.68] And it's this truth now that we want you to experience in worship today. -[3385.68 --> 3390.68] Really, in every time and day of our worship. -[3390.68 --> 3397.68] Whether you are restless, whether you are looking for rest or whether you are resting, rest in -[3397.68 --> 3398.68] Jesus. -[3398.68 --> 3402.68] He can, he will, and he is. -[3402.68 --> 3403.68] He is. -[3403.68 --> 3404.68] He is. -[3404.68 --> 3409.68] Moses journeyed from timid and afraid to the mountain top because God was with him. -[3409.68 --> 3417.68] And in the story that we read, Moses comes down, literally radiating after the encounter -[3417.68 --> 3418.68] with God. -[3418.68 --> 3421.68] Now, if your Bibles are open, let's set this stage here. -[3421.68 --> 3425.68] Turn to chapter 33, just one page back. -[3425.68 --> 3431.68] Chapter 33 in verse 16, halfway through verse 16. -[3431.68 --> 3437.68] Moses asks God, what else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people -[3437.68 --> 3439.68] on the face of the earth? -[3439.68 --> 3440.68] How will we be different? -[3440.68 --> 3442.68] How will we be different? -[3442.68 --> 3446.68] And the Lord said to Moses, I will do the very thing you have asked because I am pleased -[3446.68 --> 3449.68] with you and I know you by name. -[3449.68 --> 3454.68] Then Moses said, now show me your glory. -[3454.68 --> 3458.68] Now show me your glory. -[3458.68 --> 3461.68] What a phrase, right? -[3461.68 --> 3462.68] What a prayer to ask. -[3462.68 --> 3464.68] What a way to worship. -[3464.68 --> 3470.68] Sometimes I wonder, imagine if on Sunday morning before you came to church, your prayer was simply, -[3470.68 --> 3472.68] show me your glory. -[3472.68 --> 3481.68] Imagine as you sat here listening to me preach, your prayer was, show me your glory. -[3481.68 --> 3483.68] Show me your glory. -[3483.68 --> 3487.68] And the amazing thing, right, if you continue reading that story, is that God showed up. -[3487.68 --> 3489.68] God showed his glory. -[3489.68 --> 3494.68] Now, God gave him just a glimpse of that and a glimpse to Moses like no other person, maybe -[3494.68 --> 3497.68] other than Jesus in the Bible can claim, right? -[3497.68 --> 3503.68] In verse 19, the Lord said, I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you and I will -[3503.68 --> 3507.68] proclaim my name, the Lord, in your presence. -[3507.68 --> 3510.68] Notice this, okay, carefully. -[3510.68 --> 3518.68] Moses asks to see the glory of God and then God says, I will show you my goodness. -[3518.68 --> 3521.68] I will show you my character, my name, right? -[3521.68 --> 3527.68] The Lord, I am, who was and is and is to come. -[3527.68 --> 3531.68] Now, God isn't not doing what Moses asks. -[3531.68 --> 3532.68] Right? -[3532.68 --> 3535.68] God answers, or Moses requests to show him his glory in a very particular way. -[3535.68 --> 3541.68] In fact, I want to suggest that God is giving us a definition of his glory. -[3541.68 --> 3544.68] And so what is the glory of God? -[3544.68 --> 3546.68] It is his goodness revealed. -[3546.68 --> 3547.68] Right? -[3547.68 --> 3548.68] It is his character. -[3548.68 --> 3551.68] It is his being revealed. -[3551.68 --> 3553.68] And there's more, right? -[3553.68 --> 3554.68] He goes on. -[3554.68 --> 3559.68] I will cause my goodness to pass in front of you and I will proclaim my name, the Lord, -[3559.68 --> 3560.68] in your presence. -[3560.68 --> 3567.68] I will have mercy on whom I have mercy and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion. -[3567.68 --> 3568.68] Right? -[3568.68 --> 3576.68] God is merciful and compassionate and seeing that and knowing that about him is experiencing -[3576.68 --> 3578.68] some of his glory. -[3578.68 --> 3582.68] But there's even more in this little phrase, on whom I have mercy. -[3582.68 --> 3583.68] Right? -[3583.68 --> 3584.68] On whom I have compassion. -[3584.68 --> 3585.68] And this is it. -[3585.68 --> 3586.68] Right? -[3586.68 --> 3587.68] God decides. -[3587.68 --> 3590.68] God gets to decide. -[3590.68 --> 3591.68] God is independent. -[3591.68 --> 3595.68] He alone is transcendent and sovereign. -[3595.68 --> 3597.68] His will is ultimate. -[3597.68 --> 3599.68] And he will not be coerced or manipulated. -[3599.68 --> 3601.68] He does not show favoritism. -[3601.68 --> 3604.68] And everything he does is perfect. -[3604.68 --> 3610.68] And in our sort of spiritual but not religious culture. -[3610.68 --> 3611.68] Right? -[3611.68 --> 3613.68] In the rise of modern paganism. -[3613.68 --> 3615.68] This truth about God. -[3615.68 --> 3616.68] Right? -[3616.68 --> 3618.68] This idea that God is independent. -[3618.68 --> 3620.68] That he alone is necessary. -[3620.68 --> 3622.68] That he alone is transcendent and sovereign. -[3622.68 --> 3628.68] This idea about God is rejected and ignored or forgotten because it doesn't fit. -[3628.68 --> 3632.68] It doesn't fit in a world view that puts me at the center. -[3632.68 --> 3639.68] It doesn't fit with the gospel messages we saw at the beginning that are proclaimed to us day in and day out. -[3639.68 --> 3642.68] The truth is God wasn't created for humanity. -[3642.68 --> 3645.68] Humanity was created for God's glory. -[3645.68 --> 3652.68] That is offensive to a world that doesn't know God. -[3652.68 --> 3656.68] And sometimes we forget the order. -[3656.68 --> 3660.68] And we don't live out of the humility that comes from it. -[3660.68 --> 3666.68] I like the way that one writer describes all of this. -[3666.68 --> 3667.68] He says, -[3667.68 --> 3671.68] Glory is the manifestation of God's reality. -[3671.68 --> 3676.68] As heat is to fire, glory is to God. -[3676.68 --> 3680.68] As wet is to water, glory is to God. -[3680.68 --> 3684.68] As light is to bulb, glory is to God. -[3684.68 --> 3688.68] Glory is what emanates from God. -[3688.68 --> 3692.68] And that is what made Moses shine. -[3692.68 --> 3697.68] Moses asked to see God's glory and God showed him only a part. -[3697.68 --> 3698.68] God said, -[3698.68 --> 3700.68] Moses, you can't see me. -[3700.68 --> 3703.68] Nobody sees me and lives. -[3703.68 --> 3709.68] If you look at the sun for five seconds with your eyes wide open, your eyes will burn out. -[3709.68 --> 3710.68] God says to Moses, -[3710.68 --> 3715.68] Do you know that I made more than 50 billion suns with a word from my mouth? -[3715.68 --> 3719.68] You don't know exactly what you're asking me, Moses. -[3719.68 --> 3720.68] Right? -[3720.68 --> 3722.68] Man shall not see me and live. -[3722.68 --> 3724.68] I am a consuming fire. -[3724.68 --> 3726.68] I dwell in unapproachable light. -[3726.68 --> 3735.68] But God did allow Moses to see a fraction of that light, a fraction of that consuming fire, a portion of that glory. -[3735.68 --> 3742.68] And even that small, tiny little portion was enough to change him, to affect him. -[3742.68 --> 3751.68] He shone, he radiated that veiled portion of glory to the point that he himself had to wear a veil for those around him. -[3751.68 --> 3755.68] Lest those who looked at him would have their eyes burned out like looking at the sun. -[3755.68 --> 3758.68] That's how the glory of God works. -[3758.68 --> 3776.68] And our lives together are about discovering this truth of God, and pursuing that truth, and finding infinite satisfaction that can only be found in living in a community that is both reveling in glory and radiating that glory to others. -[3776.68 --> 3779.68] That's what we are here to do. -[3779.68 --> 3780.68] Right? -[3780.68 --> 3791.68] To discover the God who made us and to live for his glory and to radiate off to the world how awesome he really is so that others too can see his glory. -[3791.68 --> 3801.68] And so, let me tell you the open secret that is the gospel. -[3801.68 --> 3805.68] And again, the true gospel, not those silly little messages that we hear all week long. -[3805.68 --> 3806.68] Right? -[3806.68 --> 3810.68] The open secret of the gospel is that we have seen his glory. -[3810.68 --> 3814.68] The glory of the one and only. -[3814.68 --> 3817.68] Come from the Father, full of grace and truth. -[3817.68 --> 3819.68] And of course, I'm talking about Jesus. -[3819.68 --> 3822.68] Jesus, who himself is the I am. -[3822.68 --> 3829.68] Jesus, who lived the life we should have lived and died the death that we all deserve because of his great love for us. -[3829.68 --> 3836.68] Jesus, who is the glory of God revealed and did all that he did and died as he died for the glory of God. -[3836.68 --> 3840.68] And now, that's the life we are called to. -[3840.68 --> 3842.68] His life. -[3842.68 --> 3847.68] A life lived for the glory of God. -[3847.68 --> 3850.68] That's what it means to follow God's leading. -[3850.68 --> 3851.68] Right? -[3851.68 --> 3854.68] It means to radiate the glory of God to the world. -[3854.68 --> 3858.68] It means to shine in the darkness as we are filled with his wonderful light. -[3858.68 --> 3863.68] And when you live for the glory of God and not for those other lesser glories. -[3863.68 --> 3866.68] Can you imagine? -[3866.68 --> 3870.68] Imagine what your life would be like. -[3870.68 --> 3873.68] Imagine what our church's life would be like. -[3875.68 --> 3882.68] I've mentioned this idea, this next idea to our council and to our elders before. -[3882.68 --> 3885.68] And I love the way that Don Cousins puts it. -[3885.68 --> 3894.68] Don says, God wants to do the inconceivable, the uncommon, the unexpected, the remarkable, and the incomprehensible. -[3894.68 --> 3901.68] So that he, God, is the only explanation for what occurs in our lives. -[3901.68 --> 3916.68] And so right now, what inconceivable, what uncommon, what unexpected, remarkable, incomprehensible thing is God calling you to so that he can reveal his glory. -[3916.68 --> 3922.68] As a church, right, this is the question of how we will follow God. -[3922.68 --> 3928.68] Will we settle for a vision that is within our own hands and that's within our own power to accomplish? -[3928.68 --> 3939.68] Or, or are you willing to follow God into the unknown so that he, and he alone, can do something impossible with us? -[3939.68 --> 3942.68] I put it this way before to you. -[3942.68 --> 3960.68] My responsibility, and our responsibility as leaders in this church and as those who are called to disciple others, is to grow you in faith and to lead you in faith so that you might walk up to the edge of your comfort zone and then take one more step. -[3960.68 --> 3964.68] Because here's the bold truth. -[3964.68 --> 3968.68] God is not in your comfort zone. -[3968.68 --> 3970.68] Because you don't need him there. -[3970.68 --> 3971.68] Right? -[3971.68 --> 3976.68] It's only when you go beyond what you are able to do do we get to see God show up. -[3976.68 --> 3983.68] And so, earlier we prayed and we've been announcing for weeks that we're looking for elders and deacons. -[3983.68 --> 3986.68] And some of you are thinking, I can't do that. -[3986.68 --> 3987.68] I don't have the skill set for that. -[3987.68 --> 3989.68] And you're right, you don't. -[3989.68 --> 3991.68] And you can't, but you know who can? -[3991.68 --> 3993.68] God through you. -[3993.68 --> 3996.68] And so maybe you need to hear this today. -[3996.68 --> 3997.68] Right? -[3997.68 --> 3998.68] Some of you are sitting here thinking, -[3998.68 --> 3999.68] Whew. -[3999.68 --> 4004.68] God's laid on my heart a burden for global missions. -[4004.68 --> 4008.68] But I don't know if I can go around the world and leave all that I know and love here. -[4008.68 --> 4011.68] And you're right, you can't. -[4011.68 --> 4013.68] But God can. -[4013.68 --> 4016.68] And he can do that with you and through you. -[4016.68 --> 4017.68] Right? -[4017.68 --> 4022.68] Some of you are thinking, oh, how can I use my side hustle for the kingdom of God? -[4022.68 --> 4023.68] Right? -[4023.68 --> 4029.68] Some of you are wondering, how is God calling me to stretch in my giving to the mission of the church? -[4029.68 --> 4033.68] Now, let me be really clear as you're hearing this from me. -[4033.68 --> 4036.68] Some of you are too scared to ask that question. -[4036.68 --> 4038.68] And to be honest, I get that. -[4038.68 --> 4040.68] And I want to say that that's okay. -[4040.68 --> 4046.68] But I pray that you don't stay scared. -[4046.68 --> 4054.68] And I realize too that some of us here this morning don't have imaginations, right, big enough to comprehend the scope of this question. -[4054.68 --> 4057.68] And I want to say to you too, that's okay. -[4057.68 --> 4063.68] But I pray that you have the trust and the faith to follow those of us who do. -[4063.68 --> 4068.68] And that you would come along as we go on this journey together. -[4068.68 --> 4073.68] Verse 29 of chapter 34 of our text says, -[4073.68 --> 4081.68] His face was radiant because he had spoken with the Lord. -[4081.68 --> 4086.68] People who experience the glory of God are changed. -[4086.68 --> 4089.68] And we go out reflecting that glory. -[4089.68 --> 4091.68] We image that glory. -[4091.68 --> 4095.68] And we point the way to the source of that glory. -[4095.68 --> 4110.68] A few years ago, I had the opportunity with a group of pastors and spouses to climb the traditional site of Mount Sinai. -[4110.68 --> 4116.68] Now, the traditional site of Mount Sinai is on the southern part of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. -[4116.68 --> 4118.68] There's some pictures on screen. -[4118.68 --> 4121.68] We climbed up in the dark. -[4121.68 --> 4128.68] We slept together under the stars in sleeping bags with maybe a thin mat on the floor. -[4128.68 --> 4139.68] And then the next morning we watched the sunrise and we did our morning devotions as the sun, the early morning sun burned off the few clouds that had appeared overnight. -[4139.68 --> 4150.68] Now, Rachel, my wife, because of her back and because she's a sane person and doesn't want to sleep on a mountain at night, didn't join us on that part of the trip. -[4150.68 --> 4162.68] And so I told her that my hope was to come down the mountain the next day with my face radiating like Moses so that she wouldn't even be able to look at me and I have to put a veil over top. -[4162.68 --> 4169.68] Now, we came down the mountain the next day and maybe to Rachel's chagrin, I didn't have to put a veil on my face. -[4169.68 --> 4176.68] And yet, and yet, and yet, and this part is awesome. -[4176.68 --> 4179.68] I want you to hear this so follow along with me. -[4179.68 --> 4186.68] And yet, 2 Corinthians 3. -[4186.68 --> 4187.68] 3. -[4187.68 --> 4194.68] Now, if the ministry that brought death, which was engraved in letters on stone. -[4194.68 --> 4205.68] So, we're talking about the ministry of the law, right, that Moses brought down, he engraved on tablets of stone and it brought death because we read elsewhere that the law served to increase our transgressions. -[4205.68 --> 4207.68] That is to show us why we are guilty before God. -[4207.68 --> 4218.68] If the ministry that brought death, which was engraved in letters on stone, came with glory so that the Israelites could not look steadily at the face of Moses because of its glory. -[4218.68 --> 4225.68] And so, it's moved on, but it still was with its glory that had an effect. -[4225.68 --> 4237.68] Will not the ministry of the Spirit, listen, we are living in a post-Pentecost age, the Spirit has come, right, and each of us who believe are now filled with the Spirit. -[4237.68 --> 4242.68] Will not the ministry of the Spirit be even more glorious? -[4242.68 --> 4244.24] Will not the ministry of the Spirit be even more glorious? -[4244.24 --> 4258.00] Will not the ministry of the Holy Spirit be even more glorious? -[4258.00 --> 4265.06] If the ministry that brought condemnation was glorious, how much more glorious is the ministry that brings righteousness? -[4265.06 --> 4268.08] For what was glorious has no glory now in comparison with the surpassing glory. -[4268.08 --> 4271.06] And if what was transitory came with glory, how much greater is the glory of that which lasts? -[4271.06 --> 4273.12] We have such a hope. -[4274.94 --> 4278.00] We are very bold. -[4279.56 --> 4284.12] Are you bold in your glorying in Christ Jesus? -[4284.82 --> 4286.56] We are not like Moses, -[4287.40 --> 4289.58] who would have to put a veil over his face -[4289.58 --> 4292.58] to prevent the Israelites from seeing the end of what was passing away, -[4292.58 --> 4294.24] but their minds were made dull, -[4294.58 --> 4297.56] for to this day the same veil remains when the old covenant is read. -[4297.56 --> 4301.62] It has not been removed because only in Christ it is taken away. -[4302.12 --> 4305.56] Even to this day when Moses is read, a veil covers their hearts. -[4305.98 --> 4308.90] But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, -[4309.26 --> 4310.22] turn to the Lord, -[4311.06 --> 4313.02] the veil is taken away. -[4313.36 --> 4314.96] And now the Lord is spirit, -[4315.12 --> 4316.68] and where the spirit of the Lord is, -[4317.04 --> 4318.46] there is freedom. -[4319.58 --> 4323.70] And we all who now with unveiled faces -[4323.70 --> 4325.72] contemplate the Lord's glory -[4325.72 --> 4328.28] are being transformed into his image -[4328.28 --> 4330.60] with ever-increasing glory, -[4330.60 --> 4333.16] which comes from the Lord, -[4333.52 --> 4335.72] who is spirit. -[4341.08 --> 4342.16] I already, -[4342.90 --> 4345.40] without needing to climb Mount Sinai, -[4345.74 --> 4347.80] am reflecting the glory of God. -[4348.66 --> 4350.56] And insofar as I'm reflecting Jesus -[4350.56 --> 4351.48] and the mission of God, -[4351.56 --> 4353.08] insofar as I'm living my life -[4353.08 --> 4354.78] in his holiness and in his design, -[4354.88 --> 4357.36] insofar as I am loving like Jesus loves, -[4357.42 --> 4359.40] and loving whom Jesus loves, -[4359.56 --> 4363.18] I am reflecting the glory of God. -[4366.18 --> 4368.70] Saint Irenaeus said, -[4370.14 --> 4371.36] the glory of God -[4371.36 --> 4374.98] is the human being fully alive. -[4374.98 --> 4379.96] Do you want a full and abundant -[4379.96 --> 4381.64] and alive life? -[4382.78 --> 4384.38] Because this is where it is found. -[4385.46 --> 4389.04] As my identity is all and only in Christ, -[4389.22 --> 4389.76] my Lord, -[4389.86 --> 4390.68] I am, -[4390.94 --> 4391.76] as he said, -[4391.88 --> 4394.96] being transformed into his likeness -[4394.96 --> 4397.68] with ever-increasing glory. -[4397.86 --> 4398.52] And that, -[4398.86 --> 4399.84] my brothers and sisters, -[4400.08 --> 4400.22] that, -[4400.30 --> 4402.46] my fellow travelers on this journey -[4402.46 --> 4403.44] of life and faith, -[4403.44 --> 4405.50] that pilgrims in this pagan world, -[4405.68 --> 4407.30] that is a gospel message -[4407.30 --> 4409.24] that will never fade -[4409.24 --> 4412.52] because our God will never fail. -[4412.62 --> 4412.80] Amen? -[4415.80 --> 4416.40] That -[4416.40 --> 4418.74] is how your life -[4418.74 --> 4420.08] truly becomes -[4420.08 --> 4421.54] eternally -[4421.54 --> 4422.92] radiant. -[4424.02 --> 4424.34] Amen? -[4425.92 --> 4426.86] Let's pray together. -[4426.86 --> 4433.54] Amen and amen. -[4434.88 --> 4435.64] Lord Jesus, -[4436.02 --> 4438.00] transform us -[4438.00 --> 4439.36] that we might reflect -[4439.36 --> 4441.16] your glory. -[4441.40 --> 4443.04] Transform us -[4443.04 --> 4444.44] ever increasingly -[4444.44 --> 4446.00] that we might radiate -[4446.00 --> 4447.36] your presence -[4447.36 --> 4448.66] and power -[4448.66 --> 4449.70] to the world. -[4451.04 --> 4451.38] And so, -[4451.48 --> 4451.80] Lord God, -[4451.88 --> 4453.22] give us the boldness -[4453.22 --> 4454.68] that comes with being filled -[4454.68 --> 4455.72] by your spirit -[4455.72 --> 4457.18] and give us the humility -[4457.18 --> 4458.28] that comes -[4458.28 --> 4459.30] that knowing you -[4459.30 --> 4461.12] and you alone -[4461.12 --> 4464.08] are sovereign -[4464.08 --> 4465.94] and independent. -[4466.96 --> 4468.32] And it is on you -[4468.32 --> 4469.64] that we depend. -[4470.92 --> 4471.28] And so, -[4471.40 --> 4471.66] Lord God, -[4471.72 --> 4472.48] take us now -[4472.48 --> 4473.12] to the edge -[4473.12 --> 4474.08] of our comfort zones -[4474.08 --> 4474.90] and allow us -[4474.90 --> 4476.46] to go beyond. -[4477.52 --> 4478.58] Allow us to go out -[4478.58 --> 4480.14] to see that you -[4480.14 --> 4481.54] are there. -[4481.54 --> 4482.32] burden us -[4482.32 --> 4483.32] with an impossible -[4483.32 --> 4484.10] mission -[4484.10 --> 4485.48] because all things -[4485.48 --> 4486.36] are possible -[4486.36 --> 4487.84] with God. -[4488.76 --> 4489.24] Amen. -[4489.24 --> 4489.36] Amen. -[4489.36 --> 4489.40] Amen. -[4489.40 --> 4489.42] Amen. -[4489.42 --> 4489.44] Amen. -[4489.44 --> 4491.40] Amen. -[4491.40 --> 4493.44] Amen. -[4493.44 --> 4495.44] Amen. -[4495.44 --> 4497.44] Amen. -[4497.44 --> 4499.44] Amen. -[4499.44 --> 4501.44] Amen. -[4501.44 --> 4503.44] Amen. -[4503.44 --> 4505.44] Amen. -[4505.44 --> 4507.44] Amen. -[4507.44 --> 4507.50] Amen. -[4507.50 --> 4509.50] Amen. -[4509.50 --> 4509.54] Amen. -[4509.54 --> 4510.54] Amen. -[4510.54 --> 4511.52] Amen. -[4511.52 --> 4512.52] Amen. -[4512.52 --> 4520.64] Amen. -[4524.64 --> 4525.68] Amen. -[4525.68 --> 4528.56] You're beautiful -[4528.56 --> 4537.80] Your face is all I see -[4537.80 --> 4546.74] And when your eyes are on this child -[4546.74 --> 4553.16] Your grace abounds to me -[4553.16 --> 4561.16] The Lord please light the fire -[4561.72 --> 4569.42] That once been bright and clear -[4569.42 --> 4577.38] Replace the lamp of my first love -[4577.38 --> 4583.38] That burns with holy fear -[4583.94 --> 4588.38] I want to take your word -[4589.16 --> 4592.38] And shine it all around -[4592.38 --> 4594.38] Your selfie child -[4595.10 --> 4599.38] To live with God -[4599.38 --> 4604.60] And when I'm doing well -[4604.60 --> 4606.38] I'll meet you -[4606.38 --> 4607.38] I'll meet you -[4607.38 --> 4614.38] My reward is giving glory to you -[4614.38 --> 4621.70] Oh Lord, you're beautiful -[4621.70 --> 4630.38] Your face is all I see -[4630.38 --> 4641.38] And when your eyes are on this child -[4641.38 --> 4649.38] Your grace abounds to me -[4649.38 --> 4665.76] So I don't know where all of you are going this week -[4665.76 --> 4669.38] But I do know that God is going with you -[4669.38 --> 4673.30] And so go with his blessing -[4673.30 --> 4677.38] Go with his promise to be with you -[4677.38 --> 4679.92] Receive the blessing of our God -[4679.92 --> 4684.54] May God go before you to guide you -[4684.54 --> 4687.38] God go behind you to guard you -[4687.38 --> 4689.48] God go beneath you to support you -[4689.48 --> 4693.08] And God go beside you to befriend you -[4693.08 --> 4695.28] Do not be afraid -[4695.28 --> 4697.38] Let the blessing of God come upon you today -[4697.38 --> 4699.16] Do not be afraid -[4699.16 --> 4701.20] Go in peace -[4701.20 --> 4702.08] And boldness -[4702.62 --> 4703.58] And humility -[4703.58 --> 4706.36] To step outside of your comfort zones -[4706.36 --> 4708.68] To serve the Lord -[4708.68 --> 4710.32] Amen -[4710.32 --> 4733.08] Why should I fear man? -[4733.08 --> 4735.86] When you made the heavens -[4735.86 --> 4739.98] Why should I be afraid -[4739.98 --> 4743.92] When your doorless dies and plays -[4743.92 --> 4747.84] Why should I lose heart -[4747.84 --> 4751.10] When I know how great you are -[4751.10 --> 4754.98] Why should I give up -[4754.98 --> 4759.10] When your plans are full of love -[4759.10 --> 4763.94] In this world we will have -[4763.94 --> 4765.06] Trouble -[4765.06 --> 4770.06] That you have overcome -[4770.06 --> 4771.56] The world -[4771.56 --> 4777.44] You shine -[4777.44 --> 4781.14] Brighter than the brightest star -[4781.14 --> 4784.76] Your love -[4784.76 --> 4788.52] Brighter than the purest heart -[4788.52 --> 4791.14] You shine -[4791.14 --> 4795.52] Filling us with courage -[4795.52 --> 4796.64] And strength -[4796.64 --> 4800.64] To follow you -[4800.64 --> 4809.76] Why should I fear man? -[4809.76 --> 4812.60] When you made the heavens -[4812.60 --> 4816.76] Why should I be afraid? -[4816.76 --> 4820.88] When you put the stars to play? -[4820.88 --> 4824.50] Why should I lose heart -[4824.50 --> 4827.88] When I know how great you are? -[4827.88 --> 4831.74] Why should I give up -[4831.74 --> 4836.22] When your plans are full of love? -[4836.22 --> 4842.34] In this world we will have trouble -[4842.34 --> 4846.46] Because you have overcome -[4846.46 --> 4848.46] The world -[4848.46 --> 4853.40] You shine -[4853.40 --> 4857.84] Brighter than the brightest star -[4857.84 --> 4860.46] Your love -[4860.46 --> 4864.58] Pureer than the purest heart -[4864.58 --> 4866.58] You shine -[4866.58 --> 4867.58] You shine -[4867.58 --> 4871.70] Filling us with courage -[4871.70 --> 4872.70] And strength -[4872.70 --> 4873.82] To follow you -[4873.82 --> 4874.82] You shine -[4874.82 --> 4875.82] To follow you -[4875.82 --> 4876.82] You shine -[4876.82 --> 4877.82] You shine -[4877.82 --> 4878.82] You shine -[4878.82 --> 4879.82] You shine -[4879.82 --> 4881.82] Brighter than the brightest star -[4881.82 --> 4883.82] Your love -[4883.82 --> 4884.82] You shine -[4884.82 --> 4885.82] Brighter than the brightest star -[4885.82 --> 4886.82] Your love -[4886.82 --> 4889.82] Pureer than the purest heart -[4889.82 --> 4890.82] You shine -[4890.82 --> 4891.82] You shine -[4891.82 --> 4895.82] Filling us with courage -[4895.82 --> 4896.82] With courage -[4896.82 --> 4897.82] And strength -[4897.82 --> 4898.82] With courage -[4898.82 --> 4899.82] And strength -[4899.82 --> 4902.82] To follow you -[4902.82 --> 4903.82] Whether CM sins -[4903.82 --> 4904.82] Through wealth -[4904.82 --> 4905.82] With powerful -[4905.82 --> 4906.82] 증ers -[4906.82 --> 4907.82] And strength -[4907.82 --> 4908.82] With courage -[4908.82 --> 4922.82] Travest -[4922.82 --> 4923.82] Full sword -[4923.82 --> 4924.82] Who beliebra -[4924.82 --> 4954.80] Thank you. -[4954.82 --> 4984.80] Thank you. -[4984.82 --> 5014.80] Thank you. -[5014.82 --> 5016.82] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 14, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 14, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6d12fc3433f15bf26fca1e45fa6ee9b7dae3fed9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 14, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,133 +0,0 @@ -• Discussion of the power of Jesus' name -• Praise and worship music with repeated themes of breaking chains and rising up as an army -• Introduction to a church service, including welcome and announcements -• Notable events mentioned: Ascension Day celebration on Thursday at 6 p.m. and Pastor's Class starting May 28th -• Acknowledgement of Mother's Day and condolences for those struggling with motherhood or loss -• Welcome of new members and those who have completed Christianity Explored -• Announcement of celebration to take place June 4 -• Call to worship using John 3:16 as reference -• Celebration of God's love through hymn lyrics and congregational singing -• Invitation to bring failures and addictions to the cross for salvation -• Confession and need for Jesus in prayer song -• Lord, I need you was sung repeatedly as a prayer -• Confession was made, thanking God for Jesus Christ and acknowledging the need for forgiveness due to sin and mistakes -• The importance of Jesus' sacrifice and redemption were mentioned -• A song, "I'm Forever Grateful", was sung, expressing gratitude for God's love and actions, including sending Jesus to earth -• A collection was taken for the budget and Seeds of Hope, an organization supporting orphan children in Africa and Asia -• The church's donation policy is mentioned, with 93% of donations going directly to distribution of food, education, housing, and other programming for children in need. -• A scripture reading from James 1, verse 27 is referenced. -• A devotional prayer mentions God accepting a "pure and faultless" religion that involves looking after orphans and widows and keeping oneself from being polluted by the world. -• The church is collecting donations next week for Wagner Hills. -• A worship song or hymn with lyrics about faith, salvation, and redemption is sung repeatedly throughout the transcript. -• Office Bearer Affirmation Sunday is celebrated, recognizing the service of retiring office bearers Emo Smid and Glenn Nort. -• A slate of nominees is presented for new positions, including a deacon and two admin elders, and members are asked to affirm or reject them. -• Proposed slate of nominees for deacon and admin elder positions -• Affirmation process for nominees, including drawing lots for available positions -• Upcoming installation service on Pentecost Sunday (May 28) -• Collection of completed ballots at the end of the service -• Results to be announced in midweek memo on Tuesday -• Discussion of forgiveness during children's worship time -• Children's blessing and opening prayer for the morning service -• Prayer for missionaries -• Prayers for those struggling with health issues (cancer, broken bones) -• Prayers for Doreen Birkenpass's surgery and recovery -• Encouragement of those considering confessing their faith -• Leadership and prompting for young people to consider spiritual steps -• Confusion in the world and need for a God-centered truth map -• Prayers for those affected by natural disasters (fires, heat) -• Humility and living sustainably -• Recognition and thanksgiving for mothers and grandmothers -• Recognition and support for those who choose to remain single and childless -• Thanksgiving for the church as a home for all people -• Jonah is angry with God because He relented from destroying Nineveh -• Jonah's actions and attitude are contrasted with God's mercy and compassion towards Nineveh -• Jonah prays to die rather than live due to his anger and disappointment in God's decision -• God asks Jonah why he is so upset about a plant that did not care for him, but will have concern for the great city of Nineveh -• The story is connected to the speaker's personal experience with a crisis of faith and feelings of anger towards God during their time in seminary -• The speaker struggled with their ideas about God being challenged by reading and conversations -• They felt angry and resistant to the new conclusions they were coming to -• They eventually had a turning point where they realized how they responded to challenges about God mattered, especially when it came from God Himself -• In Jonah's story, he was angry that God relented on destroying Nineveh, feeling it was unjust and didn't make sense -• The speaker empathizes with Jonah's anger due to his own struggle with challenged ideas about God -• Challenges to traditional ideas about God -• Challenging experiences that change one's perspective on God -• Different perspectives and opinions from others (friends, family, neighbors) -• Crisis of faith and questioning what to believe -• Circumstances and interactions that challenge one's understanding of God's nature and actions -• Ideas about God will be challenged at some point in life -• Challenges may come from various sources, including culture and personal circumstances -• Questions to ask when ideas of God are being challenged: have we made God something He's not? or have we made culture or others more important than God? -• Introspection is required to answer these questions, which can be difficult and not done easily or alone -• Anger, upset, and confusion about God's actions may indicate that someone has given authority to a false or alternative idea of God -• Peter prayed for God to be the only true and authoritative force in his life, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing biblical truth over personal opinions. -• The importance of self-reflection and acknowledging one's own biases -• Recognizing the potential for people to be "unsafe" or unaffirming in conversations about personal beliefs -• Discussing how asking hard questions is not inherently "unsafe" -• Exploring how societal expectations can lead to feelings of guilt or shame around questioning one's faith -• Mentioning the trend of young people deconstructing their faith and becoming "ex-vangelicals" -• Deconstruction of faith can be an easy way out and isn't necessarily hard work -• The culture celebrates deconstruction as individuation and differentiation from one's parents' or traditional faith -• True challenge and celebration come from moving towards belief and testing ideas against scripture -• Challenging one's beliefs about God can lead to a deeper understanding of who God is -• Faith communities should test and refine individuals' theology in light of scripture -• God's reality and Jonah's theology don't match -• Running away from hard questions is not the best solution -• Pressing into worship and community is better -• Comparing Jonah's words to his actions in the story of Jonah -• Challenged identities and sources of truth, authority, and identity -• Struggling with thoughts of suicide -• Importance of seeking help and talking to someone about struggles -• Example from Jonah's story in the Bible where God asks him a question that seems strange at first but is actually profound and challenging -• Theme of trusting God and allowing Him to be God in difficult moments -• The book of Job is one of the oldest books in the Bible and deals with theodicy, which is the question of how to understand evil in light of God. -• The classic argument against the existence of an all-powerful and good God is that if he exists, why is there evil in the world. -• This argument can be expressed as a philosophical dilemma: either God is not all-powerful or not good, which would make him either impotent or evil. -• A key assumption behind this argument is that if there's a good reason for God to allow evil, humans should be able to know it. -• The story of Job in the Bible is an ancient attempt to answer this question and provide a theodicy. -• Creation of the universe and its components -• Job's response to God, acknowledging His power and majesty -• Jonah's crisis of faith and God's miraculous intervention -• The plant's growth and destruction as a parable for life's fleeting nature -• Jonah's despair and God's questioning of his attitude -• Jonah's refusal to obey God and his anger towards God -• God's rebuke of Jonah, emphasizing that he put his value in something other than God -• The Lord's declaration as the only comfort and truth for Jonah -• God's love and choice for Jonah despite his flaws and need for grace -• Peter Kreeft's philosophical perspective on evil and God's allowance of it -• God took the form of a man in Jesus, who lived and died to show His love for humanity. -• This is a display of God's concern and love for every place and person, including the neighborhood of Murrayville and beyond. -• As missionary citizens, people are called to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ and reveal God's kingdom. -• This involves having one's ideas about God challenged and accurately reflecting who He is. -• Missionary citizens go into the world to challenge others' ideas about God and be used by Him to do so. -• Prayers and blessings for the meal -• Invitation to participate in liturgy and share words of gratitude -• Giving thanks to God for creation, covenant, and salvation through Jesus Christ -• Celebrating the Lord's Supper as a memorial to Jesus' sacrifice until He comes again -• Expressions of unity and community among believers -• The significance of remembering Christ's body and blood in remembrance -• Invitation to come to the table regardless of faith level or attendance history -• Instructions for communion, including passing elements and saying phrases -• Gathering at the front and making room for everyone -• Preparations for the meal led by worship volunteers and elders -• Prayer partners available during the Lord's Supper celebration -• Serving of communion, including wine and bread -• Invitation to receive prayer before or in place of coming to the table -• Song and worship, with multiple iterations of "Come, Lord Jesus, come" and a song titled "I Love You, Lord" -• Invitation for those helping to serve to come forward -• Exalting God's name -• Expressing gratitude for salvation and redemption -• Acknowledging sin, shame, and brokenness -• Praising Jesus as Savior and Lord -• Inviting others to come and find mercy and healing -• Reiterating the availability of hope and rest in Christ -• Using the hymn "Amazing Grace" to express gratitude for God's salvation -• Invitation to gather around tables, in life and community -• Blessings and protection from God, sent before and with us -• Fellowship and coffee after service -• Announcements about new members and pastor's class -• Contacting Pastor Kevin or elder for questions -• Handing in ballot on the way out -• Receiving the blessing of God, led, protected, supported, befriended -• Plans to see each other face-to-face -• Dancing together in the city of God -• Repeated references to dancing together \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 14, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 14, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 9cdbf03141c587edf03d3f7cc1ee8cae92bfcf8a..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 14, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2407 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 62.00] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 92.00] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 122.00] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 152.00] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 182.00] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 212.00] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 242.00] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 272.00] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 302.00] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 332.00] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 362.00] Thank you. -[362.00 --> 364.00] Thank you. -[364.00 --> 366.00] Thank you. -[366.00 --> 368.00] Thank you. -[368.00 --> 370.00] Exactly. -[370.00 --> 371.00] Thank you. -[371.00 --> 372.00] Thank you. -[372.00 --> 373.00] Thank you. -[373.00 --> 375.00] Thank you. -[375.00 --> 393.40] We believe there is power in the name of Jesus. -[393.40 --> 400.48] There is power in the name of Jesus. -[400.48 --> 407.48] There is power in the name of Jesus. -[407.48 --> 414.48] Break every chain, break every chain, break every chain. -[414.48 --> 421.48] There is power, there is power in the name of Jesus. -[421.48 --> 428.48] There is power in the name of Jesus. -[428.48 --> 436.48] There is power in the name of Jesus. -[436.48 --> 451.48] Break every chain, break every chain. -[451.48 --> 455.48] Hallelujah. -[455.48 --> 458.48] Oh, yeah. -[461.48 --> 464.48] Oh, yeah. -[465.48 --> 477.48] That power, power, wonder what and how in a day we believe, we believe. -[485.48 --> 492.48] There's an army rising up. -[493.48 --> 499.48] There's an army rising up. -[500.48 --> 506.48] There's an army rising up. -[507.48 --> 513.48] To break every chain, to break every chain, to break every chain. -[513.48 --> 515.48] Sing it out. -[515.48 --> 520.48] There's an army rising up. -[521.48 --> 527.48] There's an army rising up. -[528.48 --> 534.48] There's an army rising up. -[534.48 --> 540.48] There's an army rising up, in a rain, to break every chain. -[540.48 --> 543.48] To break every chain, to break every chain, to break every chain. -[543.48 --> 552.48] To break every chain, break every chain, break every chain -[559.48 --> 565.48] And the chains fall, and the chains fall -[565.48 --> 573.48] And the chains fall -[573.48 --> 583.48] And the chains fall -[585.48 --> 591.48] Cause there is power in the name of Jesus -[592.48 --> 598.48] There is power in the name of Jesus -[598.48 --> 603.48] There is power in the name of Jesus -[604.48 --> 611.48] To break every chain, break every chain, break every chain -[612.48 --> 613.48] Sing it out -[614.48 --> 619.48] There is power in the name of Jesus -[620.48 --> 625.48] There is power in the name of Jesus -[625.48 --> 629.48] There is power in the name of Jesus -[630.48 --> 638.48] To break every chain, break every chain, break every chain -[638.48 --> 647.48] To break every chain, break every chain -[647.48 --> 660.98] Good morning. Welcome to church. And may I also just say happy Mother's Day to you who are mothers. -[661.18 --> 669.40] We celebrate you this morning and we are grateful that you are here. On this day of days, we're also -[669.40 --> 677.24] mindful of those who are mourning lost mums, those who do not have a good relationship with their mom -[677.24 --> 683.64] and those who wish they could be mothers and who for one reason or another are unable to. And so our -[683.64 --> 691.80] heart goes out to you as well today. As we gather together in worship, we do so as a diverse group -[691.80 --> 699.42] of people coming from all sorts of different places into this place as a family of believers. -[700.50 --> 705.64] And so we welcome you into worship. If you're visiting with us this morning, my name is Chris. -[705.64 --> 710.86] I'm one of the pastors here and it's my privilege to lead this morning with these others on stage and -[710.86 --> 716.86] a few others. We will come to the table later in our service. And so if you are participating online, -[717.08 --> 722.90] we encourage you at some point to join us and prepare your hearts and your space for that -[722.90 --> 728.12] as we come to the table together. Before we begin, there's a couple announcements to make. -[728.12 --> 738.46] First of all, you may have seen on screen, but this coming Thursday, we are celebrating Ascension Day. -[739.54 --> 747.42] Now, you probably are aware, but just over a week ago, King Charles III was coronated as king and -[747.42 --> 755.06] millions of people participated and watched and celebrated that. Ascension Day is kind of like -[755.06 --> 762.54] the coronation of King Jesus. We acknowledge his kingship. We acknowledge his sovereign rule and -[762.54 --> 769.70] reign from the right hand of God where he has ascended to. And so we gather to sing praises -[769.70 --> 777.80] to him and to worship him and to learn what it means to be a disciple in his kingdom. And so 6 p.m. -[777.80 --> 785.06] on Thursday, we invite you to join us for worship. We know that that is a bit of a tight time crunch, -[785.20 --> 789.46] but we really want young families to be able to come. And if we start later than that, it gets into -[789.46 --> 793.92] bedtime, especially because it's, oh, it's not a school night, but it's still going to be late. -[794.44 --> 798.04] So, or not a school night for at least LCS kids. I don't know about the other kids. -[798.90 --> 806.72] Anyway, 6 p.m. Thursday night, please join us for worship. As well, you may have seen in a couple -[806.72 --> 814.38] weeks' time on May 28th, pastor's class is going to begin. And so that's for those of you primarily -[814.38 --> 820.64] young people who have gone through our catechism and church education program and are looking to -[820.64 --> 827.82] take that next step in your faith where you own this shared faith as your own. And so if you have -[827.82 --> 836.02] questions about that, talk to either Pastor Kevin or to myself. Additionally, this is for a number of -[836.02 --> 843.26] you who have been visiting with us regularly. On June 4, so the week after this profession, -[843.40 --> 847.80] this beginning of pastor's class, but on June 4, we're going to, as part of our worship, -[848.46 --> 854.14] welcome a group of new members and welcome a group of people who have gone through pastor's -[854.14 --> 859.40] class, or not pastor's class, who've gone through Christianity Explored and that process and some -[859.40 --> 863.60] other conversations. So if you have been worshiping with us and are not a member but have questions -[863.60 --> 868.90] about what that might look like, grab me after service and I will give you details and then -[868.90 --> 876.92] maybe you want to participate in that welcome and celebration as well on June 4. I think that's it for -[876.92 --> 881.96] announcements. I'm going to invite you as you are able to stand and we can be gathered up in the -[881.96 --> 893.66] presence of God as he welcomes us and greets us. Receive the greeting of our good God. Grace, mercy, -[894.12 --> 900.68] and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, Son and our Savior, through the -[900.68 --> 906.94] presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. I'm going to invite you to turn to those around you and -[906.94 --> 909.00] welcome them into worship this morning. -[934.68 --> 935.40] Good morning. -[936.94 --> 943.10] Our call to worship this morning, our call to worship this morning as we look forward to -[943.10 --> 954.32] celebrating the Lord's Supper together, comes from a favorite verse for many of us who learned it -[954.32 --> 962.52] at an early age as young children, John 3, 16. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only -[962.52 --> 970.98] son that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. Please join us in celebrating -[970.98 --> 976.02] God's amazing love for us this morning by worshiping him together. -[976.02 --> 980.26] hymn. -[984.18 --> 985.46] hyped -[985.46 --> 988.32] mu todo -[988.32 --> 993.44] mu Switzerland -[993.44 --> 997.94] mu -[997.94 --> 1005.68] Come all you weary, come all you thirsty -[1005.68 --> 1010.30] Come to the well that never runs dry -[1010.30 --> 1016.04] Drink of the water, come and thirst no more -[1016.04 --> 1023.58] Come all you sinners, come find His mercy -[1023.58 --> 1027.70] Come to the table, He will satisfy -[1027.70 --> 1034.34] Taste of His goodness, find what you're looking for -[1034.34 --> 1041.50] For God so loved the world that He gave us -[1041.50 --> 1045.94] His one and only Son to save us -[1045.94 --> 1051.00] Whoever believes in Him will live forever -[1051.00 --> 1059.12] Bring all your failures, bring your addictions -[1059.12 --> 1063.42] Come and lay them down at the foot of the cross -[1063.42 --> 1069.70] Jesus is waiting there with open arms -[1069.70 --> 1077.82] For God so loved the world that He gave us -[1077.82 --> 1081.82] His one and only Son to save us -[1081.82 --> 1087.82] Whoever believes in Him will live forever -[1087.82 --> 1093.82] The power of hell forever defeated -[1093.82 --> 1095.94] Now it is well -[1095.94 --> 1098.20] I'm walking in freedom -[1098.20 --> 1100.36] For God so loved -[1100.36 --> 1104.94] God so loved the world -[1104.94 --> 1110.88] Praise God, praise God -[1110.88 --> 1133.00] Praise Him, praise Him -[1133.00 --> 1144.00] Praise Him, praise Him for the wonders of His love. -[1144.00 --> 1153.00] For God so loved the world that He gave us, His one and only Son to save us. -[1153.00 --> 1170.00] Whoever believes in Him will live forever. -[1170.00 --> 1177.00] The power of hell forever defeated, now it is well. -[1177.00 --> 1188.00] I'm walking in freedom for God so loved, God so loved the world. -[1188.00 --> 1198.00] Bring all your failures, bring your addictions, come lay them down at the foot of the cross. -[1198.00 --> 1206.00] Jesus is waiting, God so loved the world. -[1207.00 --> 1212.00] Lord, I come, I confess. -[1212.00 --> 1213.00] Amen. -[1242.00 --> 1246.14] I find my rest -[1246.14 --> 1248.70] Without you -[1248.70 --> 1253.00] I fall apart -[1253.00 --> 1256.00] You're the one -[1257.46 --> 1261.00] That guides my heart -[1261.68 --> 1268.00] Lord, I need you -[1268.00 --> 1273.00] Oh, I need you -[1273.00 --> 1280.00] Every hour I need you -[1280.00 --> 1284.00] My one defense -[1284.00 --> 1287.00] My righteousness -[1287.00 --> 1293.00] Oh God, how I need you -[1293.00 --> 1301.00] Where sin runs deep -[1302.00 --> 1305.00] Your grace is more -[1305.00 --> 1309.00] Where grace is found -[1309.00 --> 1313.00] Is where you are -[1313.00 --> 1317.00] And where you are -[1317.00 --> 1321.00] Lord, I am free -[1321.00 --> 1328.00] Holiness is Christ in me -[1328.00 --> 1331.00] Where you are -[1331.00 --> 1335.00] Lord, I am free -[1335.00 --> 1343.00] Holiness is Christ in me -[1343.00 --> 1348.00] Lord, I need you -[1348.00 --> 1353.00] Oh, I need you -[1353.00 --> 1360.00] Every hour I need you -[1360.00 --> 1364.00] My one defense -[1364.00 --> 1367.00] My righteousness -[1367.00 --> 1373.00] Oh God, how I need you -[1373.00 --> 1377.00] To teach my song -[1377.00 --> 1379.00] To rise to you -[1379.00 --> 1386.00] When temptation comes my way -[1386.00 --> 1390.00] And when I cannot stand -[1390.00 --> 1393.00] I'll fall on you -[1393.00 --> 1397.00] Jesus, you're my hope -[1397.00 --> 1399.00] And stay -[1399.00 --> 1402.00] And when I cannot stand -[1402.00 --> 1405.00] I'll fall on you -[1405.00 --> 1409.00] Jesus, you're my hope -[1409.00 --> 1410.00] For my hope -[1410.00 --> 1411.00] And stay -[1411.00 --> 1416.00] Lord, I need you -[1416.00 --> 1418.00] Lord, I need you -[1418.00 --> 1422.00] Oh, I need you -[1422.00 --> 1428.00] Every hour I need you -[1428.00 --> 1430.00] Every hour I need you -[1430.00 --> 1443.00] My one defense, my righteousness, O God, how I need you. -[1443.00 --> 1458.62] Lord, I need you, oh, I need you. Every hour I need you. -[1458.62 --> 1472.76] My one defense, my righteousness, O God, how I need you. -[1472.76 --> 1488.78] My one defense, my righteousness, O God, how I need you. -[1490.86 --> 1492.06] You may have a seat. -[1496.54 --> 1500.32] Please join me in our prayer of confession this morning. -[1500.32 --> 1506.94] God, our Father in heaven, we know that you love us immensely. -[1508.48 --> 1513.12] We thank you for the greatest gift to us, your Son, Jesus Christ. -[1514.62 --> 1520.20] John 3.16 describes so beautifully your amazing love and perfect plan for us. -[1520.86 --> 1523.84] God, you love us with an everlasting love. -[1524.88 --> 1527.34] We are your children and are so thankful. -[1527.34 --> 1535.66] You knew from the beginning of time that life for us would be full of challenges and temptations and uncertainty. -[1536.34 --> 1540.22] You knew that we would fall short and sin and make mistakes. -[1541.48 --> 1542.90] Please forgive us. -[1542.90 --> 1547.22] Thank you for sending your Son, Jesus, to earth. -[1548.00 --> 1553.72] Jesus, who lived a perfect, sinless life and demonstrated for us the right way to live -[1553.72 --> 1559.26] and willingly gave his own life as a complete sacrifice for our sins. -[1560.72 --> 1564.60] Jesus, our loving Savior and Redeemer, we are forever grateful. -[1564.60 --> 1567.56] Only you are worthy of our praise. -[1568.50 --> 1570.10] We pray in your name alone. -[1571.10 --> 1571.42] Amen. -[1575.92 --> 1578.24] Please rise as we sing I'm Forever Grateful. -[1578.24 --> 1605.24] You did not wait for me to draw near to you, -[1605.24 --> 1609.64] But you clothed yourself in frail humanity. -[1611.72 --> 1617.96] You did not wait for me to cry out to you, -[1617.96 --> 1623.48] But you let me hear your voice calling me, -[1623.48 --> 1629.48] And I'm forever grateful to you, -[1629.48 --> 1636.68] And I'm forever grateful for the cross, -[1636.68 --> 1642.96] And I'm forever grateful to you, -[1642.96 --> 1652.96] That you came to seek and save the lost. -[1652.96 --> 1660.16] You did not wait for me to draw near to you, -[1660.16 --> 1664.44] But you clothed yourself in frail humanity. -[1664.44 --> 1671.44] You did not wait for me to cry out to you, -[1671.44 --> 1673.44] And I'm forever grateful to you, -[1673.44 --> 1677.44] But you let me hear your voice calling me, -[1677.44 --> 1683.44] And I'm forever grateful to you, -[1683.44 --> 1684.44] And I'm forever grateful to you, -[1684.44 --> 1690.44] And I'm forever grateful for the cross, -[1690.44 --> 1696.44] And I'm forever grateful to you, -[1696.44 --> 1698.44] And I'm forever grateful to you, -[1698.44 --> 1706.44] That you came to seek and save the lost, -[1706.44 --> 1707.44] And I'm forever grateful to you, -[1707.44 --> 1713.44] And I'm forever grateful to you, -[1713.44 --> 1719.44] And I'm forever grateful for the cross, -[1719.44 --> 1725.44] And I'm forever grateful to you, -[1725.44 --> 1727.44] And I'm forever grateful to you, -[1727.44 --> 1728.44] And I'm forever grateful to you, -[1728.44 --> 1729.44] And I'm forever grateful to you, -[1729.44 --> 1731.44] And I'm forever grateful to you, -[1731.44 --> 1737.44] That you came to seek and save the lost. -[1755.44 --> 1771.44] And I'm forever grateful to you, -[1771.44 --> 1771.50] And I'm forever grateful to you, -[1785.44 --> 1788.44] I want to thank you, -[1788.44 --> 1791.44] And I hope you've been a minister, -[1791.44 --> 1793.44] And I hope you've been a part of my journey for you. -[1793.44 --> 1794.44] To be theascстановator and bluesa, -[1794.44 --> 1796.44] But you'll be the mother's in springtime in three weeks. -[1796.44 --> 1799.44] And it's a win-sync from Paul Curiel in your office. -[1799.44 --> 1800.12] Spルク, I mean, -[1800.12 --> 1801.44] And both people can change. -[1801.44 --> 1803.44] I'll be the diezment to fall just to me yesterday. -[1803.44 --> 1804.44] Please bear it. -[1804.44 --> 1805.44] So happy to be the good idea, -[1805.44 --> 1806.68] Of course, -[1806.68 --> 1807.56] And welcome, -[1808.12 --> 1810.46] And like, -[1810.46 --> 1811.56] Project P é clear, -[1811.56 --> 1813.90] Those people would treat you -[1813.90 --> 1843.88] Thank you. -[1843.90 --> 1873.88] Thank you. -[1873.90 --> 1903.88] Thank you. -[1903.90 --> 1905.90] Thank you. -[1933.90 --> 1935.90] Thank you. -[1963.90 --> 1965.90] Thank you. -[1965.90 --> 1967.90] Thank you. -[1967.90 --> 1979.90] Every breath that I am able, I will sing of the goodness of God. -[1979.90 --> 1987.90] I will sing of the goodness of God. -[1987.90 --> 1989.90] Thank you. -[1989.90 --> 1991.90] Thank you. -[1991.90 --> 1993.90] Thank you. -[1993.90 --> 1995.90] Thank you. -[1995.90 --> 1997.90] Thank you. -[1997.90 --> 2001.90] Thank you. -[2001.90 --> 2003.90] Thank you. -[2003.90 --> 2005.90] Good morning. -[2005.90 --> 2007.90] Good morning. -[2007.90 --> 2009.90] My name is Yap. -[2009.90 --> 2013.90] I am a deacon here at Langley Emanuel. -[2013.90 --> 2015.90] The first collection will be for the budget. -[2015.90 --> 2019.90] The second collection will be for Seeds of Hope. -[2019.90 --> 2027.90] Seeds of Hope is an organization providing ongoing consistent support to orphan children in Africa and Asia. -[2027.90 --> 2037.90] 93% of all donations goes directly to distribution of food, education, housing, and other programming to children in need. -[2037.90 --> 2043.90] From James 1, verse 27. -[2043.90 --> 2047.90] Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this. -[2047.90 --> 2055.90] To look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. -[2055.90 --> 2075.90] Next week's collection will be for Wagner Hills. -[2075.90 --> 2083.90] How great the chasm that lay between us! -[2083.90 --> 2089.90] How high the mountain I cannot climb! -[2089.90 --> 2103.90] In desperation I turned to heaven and spoke your name into the night. -[2103.90 --> 2117.90] Then through the darkness your loving kindness tore through the shadows of my soul. -[2117.90 --> 2132.90] The work is finished, the end is written, Jesus Christ my living hope. -[2132.90 --> 2142.90] The Lord, who could imagine so great a mercy? -[2142.90 --> 2148.90] What heart could fathom such boundless grace? -[2148.90 --> 2162.90] The God of ages, step down from glory, to wear my sin and bear my shame. -[2162.90 --> 2168.90] The cross has spoken, I am forgiven. -[2168.90 --> 2176.90] The King of kings, the King of kings calls me His own. -[2176.90 --> 2182.90] Beautiful Savior, I'm Yours forever. -[2182.90 --> 2190.90] Jesus Christ my living hope. -[2190.90 --> 2192.90] Hallelujah! -[2192.90 --> 2197.90] Praise the one who set me free! -[2197.90 --> 2200.90] Hallelujah! -[2200.90 --> 2204.90] Death has lost its grip on me! -[2204.90 --> 2205.90] Death has lost its grip on me! -[2205.90 --> 2207.90] You have broken every chain! -[2207.90 --> 2210.90] There's salvation in your name! -[2210.90 --> 2217.90] Jesus Christ my living hope! -[2217.90 --> 2219.90] Hallelujah! -[2219.90 --> 2220.90] Hallelujah! -[2220.90 --> 2221.90] Praise the one who set me free! -[2221.90 --> 2222.90] Hallelujah! -[2222.90 --> 2224.90] Praise the one who set me free! -[2224.90 --> 2225.90] Hallelujah! -[2225.90 --> 2226.90] Hallelujah! -[2226.90 --> 2227.90] Death has lost its grip on me! -[2227.90 --> 2228.90] Hallelujah! -[2228.90 --> 2230.90] Death has lost its grip on me! -[2230.90 --> 2232.90] You have broken every chain! -[2232.90 --> 2233.90] There's salvation in your name! -[2233.90 --> 2248.90] Jesus Christ my living hope! -[2248.90 --> 2256.90] Then came the morning that sealed the promise! -[2256.90 --> 2262.90] Your buried body began to breathe! -[2262.90 --> 2277.90] Out of the silence, the roaring lion declared the grave has no claim on me! -[2277.90 --> 2284.90] Then came the morning that sealed the promise! -[2284.90 --> 2291.90] Your buried body began to breathe! -[2291.90 --> 2305.90] Out of the silence, the roaring lion declares the grave has no claim on me! -[2305.90 --> 2314.90] Jesus, yours is the victory! -[2314.90 --> 2315.90] Hallelujah! -[2315.90 --> 2316.90] Hallelujah! -[2316.90 --> 2317.90] Hallelujah! -[2317.90 --> 2322.90] Praise the one who set me free! -[2322.90 --> 2323.90] Hallelujah! -[2323.90 --> 2329.90] Death has lost its grip on me! -[2329.90 --> 2332.90] You have broken every chain! -[2332.90 --> 2335.90] There's salvation in your name! -[2335.90 --> 2342.90] Jesus Christ my living hope! -[2342.90 --> 2343.90] Hallelujah! -[2343.90 --> 2344.90] Hallelujah! -[2344.90 --> 2345.90] Hallelujah! -[2345.90 --> 2349.90] Praise the one who set me free! -[2349.90 --> 2350.90] Hallelujah! -[2350.90 --> 2351.90] Hallelujah! -[2351.90 --> 2352.90] Hallelujah! -[2352.90 --> 2353.90] Hallelujah! -[2353.90 --> 2356.90] Death has lost its grip on me! -[2356.90 --> 2359.90] You have broken every chain! -[2359.90 --> 2363.90] There's salvation in your name! -[2363.90 --> 2366.90] Jesus Christ my living hope! -[2366.90 --> 2370.90] Jesus Christ my living hope! -[2370.90 --> 2376.90] Jesus Christ my living hope! -[2376.90 --> 2384.90] Oh God you are my living hope! -[2384.90 --> 2394.90] Jesus Christ my living hope! -[2394.90 --> 2399.90] Jesus Christ my living hope! -[2399.90 --> 2406.88] My name's Eric. I'm on council, and today is Office Bearer Affirmation Sunday. -[2409.76 --> 2414.24] Today we're grateful for the service of the office bearers in this church. -[2414.42 --> 2419.54] Today Emo Smid and Glenn Nort are both retiring after they've completed their terms, -[2419.66 --> 2425.56] so we are grateful that they have been willing to serve the church here for the last three years. -[2425.56 --> 2431.04] Glenn was the vice chair and clerk for the last couple of years, -[2431.24 --> 2436.72] and Emo Smid was the deacon and chair of the deacons for the last number of years. -[2437.50 --> 2441.94] So on behalf of the council and the church, we want to thank Glenn's not here, don't think, and Emo's there. -[2442.06 --> 2444.02] Thank you for your service to the church family. -[2444.96 --> 2448.70] This morning we have the chance to approve a slate of nominees for the new positions. -[2448.70 --> 2454.80] The bylaws in the Constitution of Langley Emanuel requires that the members affirm the slate of nominees. -[2455.56 --> 2457.84] We need one deacon and two admin elders. -[2458.24 --> 2462.00] Once approved, we will draw lots from these eligible and gifted candidates. -[2463.20 --> 2468.98] Eric Hubert has got the ballots, so he will come forward with someone else to hand out these ballots. -[2469.12 --> 2476.70] On the ballots you are receiving, if you affirm the slate, check or X the top of the box, the top box. -[2476.96 --> 2481.64] If you don't affirm of one or more of the names, please check the bottom box -[2481.64 --> 2485.38] and write the names of the person or persons you don't affirm. -[2486.74 --> 2493.30] The proposed slate for the affirmations are for the office of deacon are Mike Prins and Carolyn Spohr. -[2494.10 --> 2499.52] For the office of admin elder is Paul Kuhl, Clary Klosterhoff, and Steve Verkike. -[2499.52 --> 2503.84] Again, today this ballot is for affirmation only. -[2503.84 --> 2512.78] By voting yes, you are agreeing with the recommendations of council that each of the above individuals is capable and gifted to serve in his or her respective nomination. -[2512.78 --> 2515.44] In both cases, we have nominations. -[2517.12 --> 2522.54] In both cases, we have more nominations than needed office bearers. -[2522.64 --> 2529.36] Therefore, after the names are affirmed this week, we will draw lots for the needed positions next week. -[2530.24 --> 2534.14] One lot for the deacon position and two lots for the admin elder positions. -[2535.42 --> 2539.38] Lord willing, our installation service will be on Pentecost Sunday on May 28. -[2539.38 --> 2545.38] At the end of the service, there will be two elders at the back doors to collect your completed ballot. -[2546.26 --> 2551.94] The results will come out counted and sent out an update in the midweek memo on Tuesday. -[2553.28 --> 2555.42] And nobody's allowed to escape the side doors. -[2556.68 --> 2557.56] Oh, we got security. -[2557.94 --> 2558.64] We got security. -[2558.82 --> 2561.34] So you got to go through the back doors, hand in your ballot. -[2563.16 --> 2564.08] Thank you so much. -[2564.14 --> 2567.32] I think Eric is going to hand out the forms. -[2567.32 --> 2570.36] But at this time, we're going to do Kids Corner Children's Worship Time. -[2570.44 --> 2571.68] You kids can come up front. -[2588.86 --> 2590.32] There's a little bit of energy here. -[2590.38 --> 2591.06] There's a little buzz. -[2591.30 --> 2592.90] Everybody got lots of energy and excited? -[2593.22 --> 2593.50] Yeah. -[2594.00 --> 2594.94] What day is it today? -[2594.94 --> 2596.20] My Mother's Day. -[2596.20 --> 2600.86] Who, praise your hand, who this morning made breakfast for their mom already this morning? -[2600.96 --> 2601.74] Did something nice? -[2602.42 --> 2602.64] Yeah? -[2603.10 --> 2603.38] No? -[2603.54 --> 2604.40] Somebody's saying no? -[2604.60 --> 2604.88] Uh-oh. -[2606.44 --> 2611.12] Who made a nice craft or card that they were able to give their mom this morning? -[2611.24 --> 2611.88] All right. -[2612.10 --> 2612.86] We got some. -[2613.34 --> 2614.08] Good, good, good. -[2615.16 --> 2618.74] And who's going to continue to spoil their mom all day long? -[2618.74 --> 2622.58] Do everything she asks? -[2623.20 --> 2625.08] Clean the dishes? -[2626.08 --> 2627.24] Clean up after yourself? -[2627.46 --> 2627.92] Good, good. -[2628.02 --> 2628.18] Okay. -[2629.98 --> 2631.68] Because today we're talking about forgiveness. -[2631.90 --> 2635.66] And if you don't do those things, you might have to ask for a little bit of forgiveness after this day. -[2636.88 --> 2638.46] Who knows what forgiveness means? -[2639.74 --> 2640.26] You do? -[2640.26 --> 2647.54] You do something wrong, and then it's mom that's like, they forgive that you do. -[2647.54 --> 2648.20] That's right. -[2648.28 --> 2652.72] So when you do something wrong and somebody asks, you have to maybe ask for forgiveness. -[2652.88 --> 2655.06] Or what's another word we sometimes use for forgiveness? -[2657.40 --> 2657.80] Sorry. -[2657.80 --> 2666.66] So today in children's worship time, we are going to go and talk a bit more about forgiveness in the room back there. -[2666.90 --> 2669.26] But before we do that, we should do the children's blessing. -[2669.42 --> 2671.50] So let's have everybody stand up, please. -[2677.60 --> 2678.00] Ready? -[2678.68 --> 2678.96] The. -[2679.48 --> 2681.02] Lord be with you. -[2681.28 --> 2682.84] And also with you. -[2687.80 --> 2715.40] Good morning, everyone. -[2715.40 --> 2715.48] Good morning, everyone. -[2717.80 --> 2718.72] I'm Peter. -[2719.50 --> 2723.18] I've been a member of this church for 37 years. -[2724.36 --> 2727.44] My mother's name is Patricia. -[2728.32 --> 2731.04] She passed away 10 years ago. -[2731.88 --> 2736.16] I remember her fondly as a wonderful mother, a Christian mother. -[2737.08 --> 2742.44] The last five years of her life, she entered into dementia and then Alzheimer's. -[2743.20 --> 2745.36] I don't remember that part of her. -[2745.36 --> 2751.20] It's a reality, though, for many of us who are older and who have parents who slip away. -[2751.94 --> 2755.16] But I'm thinking of her, and I'm sure all of you are as well. -[2755.58 --> 2756.98] I want to lead you into prayer. -[2756.98 --> 2762.26] Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be your name. -[2763.54 --> 2765.02] You're the God of creation. -[2766.48 --> 2769.36] It's beginning, it's sustaining, and it's restoration. -[2769.36 --> 2789.08] You are the God who has been with us throughout the generations, from Adam and Eve, to Abraham and Sarah, to Mary and Joseph, and to my mother and all mothers who we remember, and mothers who are here. -[2789.08 --> 2807.60] You've been with us during this time of preaching series, when we have seen you work out your sovereignty in the life, even of the self-righteous, racist Jonah, and those apparently wicked people of Nineveh. -[2807.60 --> 2837.58] We give you praise. -[2838.54 --> 2842.96] We also come to bring before you our petitions as church family. -[2843.70 --> 2854.60] This morning, we think of the leadership in our church, and we see that the process for new nominees has been completed here, and now also saying thanks to those who have served. -[2854.60 --> 2858.70] We thank you, Lord, that there are people who want to serve. -[2859.20 --> 2861.18] So important for your church. -[2861.60 --> 2863.54] We thank you also for our pastors. -[2863.54 --> 2872.68] We pray that they may feel encouraged and protected as they present the gospel, but also in their own personal lives. -[2873.50 --> 2874.08] Be with them. -[2874.18 --> 2875.02] Hold them strong. -[2875.16 --> 2876.18] Keep them in your care. -[2876.86 --> 2881.34] May counsel also surround them and support them with prayer and encouragement. -[2881.34 --> 2892.88] We also recognize, Lord, in our church as part of a larger body. -[2892.88 --> 2900.68] The Christian Reformed Church will be having a senate soon, and we pray for all those who will be involved in that work. -[2900.68 --> 2905.44] We recognize also that there are people who are hurting. -[2905.44 --> 2916.18] We just heard this week that Pearl Denhawn lost, Pearl's brother lost his wife at the age of 55. -[2916.18 --> 2917.40] That hurts. -[2918.14 --> 2923.14] We also know that there are those struggling with cancer. -[2923.28 --> 2933.30] We think of Cy Visser and John Koning, and we think of the chemotherapies they're into, and we continue to uphold them. -[2933.38 --> 2934.46] We see progress. -[2935.92 --> 2939.16] We also seem to have a spate of broken bones. -[2939.38 --> 2945.76] We think of Dick and Greta, Alvin's mom, and now Fritz, Prince's mom. -[2946.18 --> 2947.24] Has broken a hip. -[2948.20 --> 2950.46] We just pray for a quick and speedy healing. -[2950.94 --> 2964.46] We also think of Doreen Birkenpass, who's had to have an operation, a fairly significant one, and we just pray for a blessing on that with respect to her heart. -[2965.72 --> 2971.68] And we are thankful for the technology that she's able to receive to mediate that. -[2971.68 --> 2981.62] We see also, Lord, our pastor calling those of us who feel inclined to confess their faith. -[2982.76 --> 2985.28] And there are opportunities to do that. -[2985.28 --> 2988.12] And we thank you for his leadership. -[2988.36 --> 3002.98] But we also, Lord, ask you and prompt you, ask you to prompt in the lives of our young people and those who are older that they may consider this, this very important step. -[3002.98 --> 3005.66] Lord, we live in confusing times. -[3006.36 --> 3012.44] The mantra seems to be that we have permission to define our own truth. -[3013.28 --> 3016.82] What's this about the church trying to define the truth for us? -[3016.82 --> 3026.10] The idea that there is a God who has laid out for us a truth map rooted in love seems so out of step with our world today. -[3026.74 --> 3035.64] Lord, we just pray that you will work in our lives, in our children's lives, in the lives of adults, in our culture. -[3035.64 --> 3047.08] And we see evidence of, again, there's fires in Alberta, northern Alberta, with the stretch of weather. -[3047.62 --> 3050.92] People are panicking, this excessive heat and drought. -[3051.98 --> 3056.18] And yet, Lord, we know this is not a surprise. -[3056.18 --> 3061.62] It's been mentioned through the Bible, drought, heat, fires. -[3062.30 --> 3067.12] But we also recognize that in some respects, we're part of the problem. -[3067.72 --> 3070.94] And that we're aggravating it with our lifestyles. -[3070.94 --> 3080.66] And we pray, Lord, that we may become much more humble with how we use energy and how we live out our lives in the day-to-day living. -[3080.66 --> 3087.26] Lord, we bring to mind our mothers this morning. -[3088.10 --> 3097.26] And as Pastor has said, sometimes it's a complicated, complicated discussion about our mothers. -[3097.54 --> 3104.22] But by and large, most of our mothers have been an amazing benefit to our lives. -[3104.82 --> 3109.02] Some mothers have struggled in their relationship with their children, for sure. -[3109.02 --> 3111.04] And as fathers. -[3111.84 --> 3114.44] But we know that can be worked out. -[3114.52 --> 3116.16] And it can be worked out in community. -[3117.30 --> 3121.38] Lord, we just want to thank you for those who have gone before us. -[3121.66 --> 3128.90] Those of us who've parted with our mothers who've passed on to glory. -[3129.22 --> 3130.26] We thank you for them. -[3130.82 --> 3133.84] But also today, for those mothers who are grandmothers. -[3134.42 --> 3135.82] Lord, we recognize them. -[3135.82 --> 3140.98] We think of mothers right in the middle of the activity of being a mother. -[3140.98 --> 3146.08] That is a busy time, as all grandmothers will tell you, and grandfathers. -[3147.14 --> 3152.00] And so we offer them up for a special measure of grace, your grace this morning. -[3152.40 --> 3153.58] Thank you for them. -[3154.32 --> 3158.14] And Lord, also for those who choose to remain single and not have children. -[3158.14 --> 3164.26] We recognize that sometimes, as a church, we may overemphasize. -[3164.94 --> 3172.04] But your calling also is for people to be, if they recognize your calling, to remain single. -[3172.44 --> 3177.34] And sometimes childless, which has to be very difficult for them. -[3178.10 --> 3180.76] So Lord, uphold them, too, during this time. -[3180.76 --> 3189.50] We thank you for the church where we can be a home to all mothers or not mothers. -[3190.64 --> 3197.14] We want to thank you, Father God, for Jesus Christ and your Holy Spirit. -[3197.28 --> 3199.22] And for being able to come together to pray. -[3199.40 --> 3200.56] For Jesus' sake, amen. -[3200.56 --> 3200.66] Amen. -[3200.66 --> 3200.70] Amen. -[3210.76 --> 3234.46] As you can see over my shoulder, we're going to continue, actually, and conclude our brief -[3234.46 --> 3239.28] look at the book of Jonah this morning together. -[3240.76 --> 3245.88] If you have a Bible with you, or if you have a Bible on your device, I'm going to encourage -[3245.88 --> 3250.34] you to open that up or turn it on and have Jonah 4 in front of you, and then to keep -[3250.34 --> 3253.84] that in front of you as we go through together. -[3255.14 --> 3262.42] Before we do so and have a look, we're going to read the text together. -[3262.92 --> 3265.64] So I'm going to start at the beginning of chapter 4. -[3265.64 --> 3274.72] But to Jonah, this seemed very wrong, and he became angry. -[3275.72 --> 3277.44] Now, I'm just going to pause really quick. -[3278.38 --> 3287.76] Jonah is angry because the Lord relented from the destruction that Jonah wanted to happen -[3287.76 --> 3288.72] to the Ninevites. -[3288.72 --> 3295.18] And so if you are familiar with the story, or even if you're not, Jonah was told by God -[3295.18 --> 3301.78] to go to Nineveh and to proclaim to them that they would be judged for their wickedness in -[3301.78 --> 3305.50] order that they might experience the forgiveness and the grace of God. -[3305.64 --> 3307.54] And Jonah didn't like that call. -[3307.66 --> 3308.64] And so he fled. -[3309.82 --> 3310.16] Right? -[3310.24 --> 3314.88] He went down to Joppa, and he got on a boat, and he started sailing to Tarshish, which was -[3314.88 --> 3315.80] across the world. -[3316.64 --> 3321.28] And while on the boat, a great storm came up, and the mariners that were on the boat said, -[3321.36 --> 3321.88] what do we do? -[3321.96 --> 3322.48] What do we do? -[3322.58 --> 3323.96] Jonah said, throw me overboard. -[3324.58 --> 3330.34] So Jonah was thrown overboard, and we read that a great fish came and swallowed him up. -[3330.40 --> 3333.44] And for three days and three nights, Jonah was in the great fish. -[3334.04 --> 3336.26] That fish carried him back to the coast. -[3336.78 --> 3341.94] Jonah in there prayed, and he was commissioned again to go to the Ninevites. -[3341.94 --> 3343.58] He goes to the Ninevites. -[3344.08 --> 3346.92] He laxadaisically preaches to them. -[3347.56 --> 3349.24] We looked at that last week. -[3349.88 --> 3351.08] And they respond. -[3351.76 --> 3358.42] And they respond in confession and in repentance from the least of the citizens to the greatest, -[3358.98 --> 3360.28] to the king himself. -[3361.56 --> 3364.72] And therefore, we read at the end of chapter 3, -[3364.72 --> 3369.80] when God saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, he relented and did not -[3369.80 --> 3372.88] bring on them the destruction that he had threatened. -[3374.42 --> 3379.00] And to Jonah, this seemed very wrong, and he became very angry. -[3379.00 --> 3384.96] He prayed to the Lord, isn't this what I said, Lord, when I was still home? -[3385.56 --> 3388.70] That is why I tried to forestall by fleeing to Tarshish. -[3389.28 --> 3396.20] I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, -[3396.30 --> 3398.68] a God who relents from sending calamity. -[3399.16 --> 3406.38] Now, Lord, take away my life, for it is better for me to die than to live. -[3406.38 --> 3410.16] But the Lord replied, -[3410.72 --> 3413.40] Is it right for you to be angry? -[3415.86 --> 3419.44] Jonah had gone out and sat down at a place east of the city. -[3420.42 --> 3426.68] There he made himself a shelter, sat in its shade, and waited to see what would happen to the city. -[3427.88 --> 3434.02] Then the Lord provided a leafy plant and made it grow up over Jonah to give shade for his head -[3434.02 --> 3438.28] to ease his discomfort, and Jonah was very happy about the plant. -[3439.86 --> 3446.44] But at dawn the next day, God provided a worm, which chewed the plant so that it withered. -[3447.14 --> 3454.86] And when the sun rose, God provided a scorching east wind, and the sun blazed on Jonah's head so that he grew faint. -[3455.72 --> 3458.16] He wanted to die and said, -[3458.16 --> 3461.24] It would be better for me to die than to live. -[3462.58 --> 3463.96] But God said to Jonah, -[3464.68 --> 3467.74] Is it right for you to be angry about the plant? -[3469.48 --> 3470.70] But the Lord said, -[3471.12 --> 3472.16] Or it is, he said, -[3472.48 --> 3474.68] And I'm so angry I wish I were dead. -[3475.62 --> 3476.82] But the Lord said, -[3477.60 --> 3480.24] You have been concerned about this plant, -[3480.80 --> 3483.72] though you did not tend it or make it grow. -[3483.72 --> 3486.50] It sprang up overnight and died overnight. -[3487.50 --> 3491.44] And should I not have concern for the great city of Nineveh, -[3491.78 --> 3498.16] in which there are more than 120,000 people who cannot tell their right hand from their left, -[3498.44 --> 3500.58] and also many animals. -[3501.74 --> 3503.08] This is the word of the Lord. -[3503.08 --> 3516.28] I'm not sure if I have shared this particular story from the stage here. -[3516.36 --> 3520.22] I know that I've written about it, and in some of the classes I've taught, I've talked about it. -[3521.58 --> 3523.56] But when I was in seminary, -[3524.64 --> 3526.66] it was in my final year of seminary, -[3526.66 --> 3533.18] I went through a really deep and dark time. -[3534.74 --> 3538.68] I went through a really hard crisis of faith. -[3539.96 --> 3544.88] There I was studying the Bible and theology and philosophy, -[3545.66 --> 3548.88] and for a period of about four months, -[3548.88 --> 3553.10] I refused to believe any of it. -[3554.70 --> 3561.54] And I got rather angry with this idea of God. -[3562.64 --> 3568.66] And I got rather angry with the people around me in my life -[3568.66 --> 3571.76] who tried to help me and walk with me. -[3571.76 --> 3577.16] It was a period of time -[3577.16 --> 3579.44] where I wasn't sure -[3579.44 --> 3581.64] what to believe -[3581.64 --> 3583.18] or how to believe -[3583.18 --> 3585.50] or if I even ever could -[3585.50 --> 3586.66] believe again. -[3587.72 --> 3589.44] It was a period of time where -[3589.44 --> 3593.26] I mean, to be fair to my -[3593.26 --> 3595.46] friends and to my wife who was with me -[3595.46 --> 3596.10] in that moment, -[3596.80 --> 3599.34] I wasn't the nicest guy. -[3599.86 --> 3601.72] There's a better word for it, but I'm not going to use it -[3601.72 --> 3602.64] because we're live streaming. -[3607.06 --> 3609.66] And I struggled a lot. -[3610.06 --> 3612.42] And I was angry a lot. -[3612.98 --> 3614.24] And what was happening -[3614.24 --> 3619.08] is that my ideas about God -[3619.08 --> 3621.28] were being challenged -[3621.28 --> 3623.36] not only by the things that I was reading, -[3623.54 --> 3625.18] but by the conversations that I was having -[3625.18 --> 3627.22] and by the questions that I was asking. -[3627.70 --> 3629.86] And I didn't like -[3629.86 --> 3634.42] where those questions were taking me. -[3634.82 --> 3636.42] I didn't like -[3636.42 --> 3638.44] these conclusions about God -[3638.44 --> 3639.96] that I was coming to. -[3640.12 --> 3640.86] And so instead, -[3641.88 --> 3643.48] I just ran away. -[3647.20 --> 3647.72] Now, -[3647.92 --> 3649.36] long story short, -[3649.52 --> 3650.66] by the grace of God, -[3650.92 --> 3653.42] through the community of people around me, -[3653.46 --> 3654.56] He never let me go. -[3654.56 --> 3657.06] And He called me back to Himself. -[3660.20 --> 3660.72] But, -[3660.78 --> 3662.36] what I -[3662.36 --> 3664.58] experienced in that -[3664.58 --> 3665.18] moment, -[3665.34 --> 3666.96] and what hopefully I have learned -[3666.96 --> 3668.54] and am continuing to learn -[3668.54 --> 3669.92] through that process, -[3670.66 --> 3672.50] is that how we -[3672.50 --> 3674.58] respond when our -[3674.58 --> 3676.54] ideas about who God -[3676.54 --> 3678.80] is and what God is doing in the world -[3678.80 --> 3680.08] or what God should do -[3680.08 --> 3680.90] in the world, -[3680.90 --> 3682.82] when our ideas about God -[3682.82 --> 3683.86] are challenged, -[3684.36 --> 3686.36] how we respond -[3686.36 --> 3687.94] matters. -[3689.70 --> 3690.30] Especially -[3690.30 --> 3692.36] when they're challenged -[3692.36 --> 3693.42] by God Himself. -[3695.90 --> 3697.30] And that's where we're going to start -[3697.30 --> 3699.20] in this last chapter -[3699.20 --> 3700.54] of Jonah. -[3702.14 --> 3703.12] Verse 1 -[3703.12 --> 3704.28] tells us, right, -[3704.38 --> 3706.36] that Jonah didn't like -[3706.36 --> 3708.30] God relenting. -[3709.06 --> 3710.16] Jonah didn't like -[3710.16 --> 3711.08] that God -[3711.08 --> 3711.92] did not bring -[3711.92 --> 3712.68] the destruction -[3712.68 --> 3713.84] upon Nineveh -[3713.84 --> 3716.20] that He said He would. -[3717.08 --> 3718.60] But it's even more -[3718.60 --> 3720.02] than not liking. -[3720.76 --> 3720.88] Right? -[3720.94 --> 3722.06] It goes even deeper -[3722.06 --> 3722.50] than that. -[3722.68 --> 3723.30] What did we read? -[3723.34 --> 3723.56] It says, -[3723.92 --> 3724.48] to Jonah, -[3724.86 --> 3725.82] it seemed -[3725.82 --> 3727.64] very wrong. -[3729.68 --> 3730.68] To Jonah, -[3730.92 --> 3732.12] from Jonah's perspective, -[3732.38 --> 3733.32] what God did -[3733.32 --> 3734.12] in that moment -[3734.12 --> 3735.38] was actually -[3735.38 --> 3736.56] unjust. -[3738.30 --> 3739.74] It wasn't right. -[3740.38 --> 3741.70] To Jonah's mind, -[3741.80 --> 3743.24] it doesn't make any sense. -[3745.08 --> 3745.18] Right? -[3745.24 --> 3746.10] Jonah is sitting there -[3746.10 --> 3746.64] in his anger. -[3746.76 --> 3747.02] He's like, -[3747.06 --> 3747.64] how could God -[3747.64 --> 3748.34] let them get away -[3748.34 --> 3748.84] with that? -[3750.92 --> 3752.32] Why do evil men -[3752.32 --> 3752.92] prosper -[3752.92 --> 3753.78] while good men -[3753.78 --> 3754.16] suffer? -[3755.76 --> 3756.78] Why would God -[3756.78 --> 3757.76] let that happen? -[3760.58 --> 3760.92] Now, -[3761.76 --> 3762.72] I don't know about you, -[3763.42 --> 3764.40] but I've got some -[3764.40 --> 3765.18] empathy for Jonah -[3765.18 --> 3765.82] in that moment. -[3765.82 --> 3767.70] Right? -[3768.58 --> 3769.46] It's really -[3769.46 --> 3770.22] not hard -[3770.22 --> 3770.62] for me -[3770.62 --> 3771.70] to see -[3771.70 --> 3772.70] why he's -[3772.70 --> 3773.40] angry. -[3774.56 --> 3775.14] Because -[3775.14 --> 3776.62] Jonah's idea -[3776.62 --> 3777.72] of God, -[3778.32 --> 3779.30] of who God -[3779.30 --> 3779.76] is, -[3779.88 --> 3780.76] and of what God -[3780.76 --> 3781.90] is supposed to do -[3781.90 --> 3782.74] in the world -[3782.74 --> 3783.62] is being -[3783.62 --> 3785.14] directly challenged. -[3786.82 --> 3787.32] Now, -[3787.38 --> 3788.28] in Jonah's case, -[3788.78 --> 3788.94] right, -[3788.98 --> 3789.72] his ideas -[3789.72 --> 3790.46] about God -[3790.46 --> 3791.56] are being challenged -[3791.56 --> 3792.68] by God himself. -[3792.68 --> 3794.74] right, -[3794.78 --> 3795.52] by God's own -[3795.52 --> 3796.62] action in the world. -[3798.42 --> 3799.60] For you and me, -[3800.60 --> 3801.60] for us, -[3802.04 --> 3803.52] it's not always -[3803.52 --> 3804.20] as obvious. -[3806.72 --> 3807.00] And so, -[3807.08 --> 3807.48] for instance, -[3808.26 --> 3809.14] sometimes -[3809.14 --> 3810.72] our ideas -[3810.72 --> 3811.46] about God -[3811.46 --> 3812.42] are challenged -[3812.42 --> 3814.22] when people -[3814.22 --> 3816.16] we think -[3816.16 --> 3817.38] should believe -[3817.38 --> 3818.02] in him -[3818.02 --> 3819.34] don't -[3819.34 --> 3820.20] believe -[3820.20 --> 3820.60] in him. -[3822.08 --> 3822.22] Right? -[3822.24 --> 3822.66] For instance, -[3822.78 --> 3823.30] maybe you have -[3823.30 --> 3824.96] some group -[3824.96 --> 3825.34] of friends. -[3825.44 --> 3825.80] Maybe there's -[3825.80 --> 3826.46] five of you. -[3827.18 --> 3827.42] Right? -[3827.46 --> 3828.16] You all grew up -[3828.16 --> 3828.66] in church, -[3829.14 --> 3830.26] but now -[3830.26 --> 3831.90] only two of them -[3831.90 --> 3832.92] still say -[3832.92 --> 3833.52] they're Christian. -[3835.22 --> 3836.00] Or maybe -[3836.00 --> 3836.74] it's your kids. -[3837.88 --> 3838.10] Right? -[3838.16 --> 3839.08] Why would God -[3839.08 --> 3839.98] let two of them -[3839.98 --> 3840.64] walk away -[3840.64 --> 3841.50] and one -[3841.50 --> 3842.52] stay in the church? -[3845.32 --> 3846.14] These challenge -[3846.14 --> 3846.56] our ideas -[3846.56 --> 3847.10] about God. -[3848.16 --> 3849.14] Maybe your ideas -[3849.14 --> 3849.68] about God -[3849.68 --> 3850.42] are challenged -[3850.42 --> 3851.46] because you -[3851.46 --> 3851.86] went away -[3851.86 --> 3852.48] to university -[3852.48 --> 3853.58] and you met -[3853.58 --> 3854.34] a bunch of people -[3854.34 --> 3855.88] that you really like -[3855.88 --> 3857.32] and those people -[3857.32 --> 3858.00] that you really like, -[3858.10 --> 3858.58] they think -[3858.58 --> 3859.22] being Christian -[3859.22 --> 3860.14] is kind of silly -[3860.14 --> 3861.16] and backwards. -[3862.48 --> 3862.72] Right? -[3862.80 --> 3863.78] They're the people -[3863.78 --> 3864.14] who say, -[3864.32 --> 3865.84] why would you get up -[3865.84 --> 3866.10] at, -[3866.98 --> 3867.24] you know, -[3867.36 --> 3868.64] early on Sunday morning -[3868.64 --> 3869.84] to go to church? -[3870.32 --> 3870.86] They think -[3870.86 --> 3871.70] it's a waste of time. -[3873.10 --> 3873.30] Right? -[3873.36 --> 3874.02] These are the people -[3874.02 --> 3874.94] that your parents -[3874.94 --> 3876.04] and your youth pastor -[3876.04 --> 3876.98] warned you about, -[3877.18 --> 3878.16] but you love them. -[3879.64 --> 3880.82] They're good people. -[3882.00 --> 3882.56] And so now, -[3882.64 --> 3883.16] all of a sudden, -[3883.26 --> 3884.74] your ideas about God -[3884.74 --> 3886.36] are being challenged -[3886.36 --> 3888.94] because of your interactions -[3888.94 --> 3890.20] with them. -[3892.72 --> 3894.02] Maybe you just met -[3894.02 --> 3894.70] your new neighbors -[3894.70 --> 3897.20] and it's a gay couple -[3897.20 --> 3898.92] that have kids -[3898.92 --> 3899.96] the same age as yours -[3899.96 --> 3902.00] and they're lovely. -[3904.64 --> 3904.84] Right? -[3905.24 --> 3906.30] Sometimes we end up -[3906.30 --> 3907.06] in circumstances -[3907.06 --> 3908.04] that challenge -[3908.04 --> 3909.16] our ideas -[3909.16 --> 3910.24] about who God is. -[3911.48 --> 3912.38] Maybe it's you. -[3913.90 --> 3915.08] Maybe it's someone you love -[3915.08 --> 3917.54] and you just don't know -[3917.54 --> 3918.26] what to do -[3918.26 --> 3919.62] in that moment. -[3921.46 --> 3921.58] Right? -[3921.58 --> 3922.92] Maybe it's a crisis of faith -[3922.92 --> 3923.80] and you don't know -[3923.80 --> 3924.44] what to believe. -[3925.32 --> 3926.42] The point is, -[3926.56 --> 3928.34] we all have ideas -[3928.34 --> 3929.78] about who God is -[3929.78 --> 3931.38] and about what He should do -[3931.38 --> 3932.66] and what we should do -[3932.66 --> 3933.84] in response to that. -[3934.12 --> 3934.28] Right? -[3934.32 --> 3935.24] About who God is -[3935.24 --> 3936.74] or who God isn't. -[3936.94 --> 3938.12] What He should let happen. -[3938.86 --> 3940.74] And unless our heads -[3940.74 --> 3941.44] are buried -[3941.44 --> 3942.94] in the proverbial sand, -[3943.18 --> 3944.00] there will be -[3944.00 --> 3945.30] a time and a place -[3945.30 --> 3946.56] where those ideas -[3946.56 --> 3947.28] about God -[3947.28 --> 3947.88] are challenged. -[3949.50 --> 3950.44] And yes, -[3950.60 --> 3951.30] like Jonah, -[3952.06 --> 3953.78] sometimes those ideas -[3953.78 --> 3954.60] are challenged -[3954.60 --> 3955.58] by God Himself -[3955.58 --> 3957.30] because we've given -[3957.30 --> 3958.22] ourselves over -[3958.22 --> 3959.70] to the wrong notion -[3959.70 --> 3960.28] of God. -[3961.16 --> 3961.30] Right? -[3961.34 --> 3962.38] But it's also true -[3962.38 --> 3963.24] that every time -[3963.24 --> 3964.42] those ideas are challenged, -[3964.56 --> 3966.24] God will and can use them. -[3967.24 --> 3968.70] But most often, -[3969.36 --> 3971.12] our ideas of God, -[3971.22 --> 3972.12] it seems to me, -[3972.22 --> 3973.52] are challenged -[3973.52 --> 3975.08] by our own life, -[3975.24 --> 3976.44] by our own circumstances, -[3976.64 --> 3977.58] by the people we know, -[3977.58 --> 3978.76] the people we love, -[3979.00 --> 3979.80] the people we meet, -[3980.10 --> 3980.96] and by the culture -[3980.96 --> 3981.92] around us, -[3981.96 --> 3983.30] the culture we find -[3983.30 --> 3983.96] ourselves in. -[3984.96 --> 3985.82] And so the questions -[3985.82 --> 3987.60] that we need to ask ourselves, -[3987.80 --> 3988.96] the wrestling -[3988.96 --> 3989.96] that we need to do -[3989.96 --> 3990.40] is, -[3990.80 --> 3992.34] are your ideas of God -[3992.34 --> 3993.16] being challenged -[3993.16 --> 3994.94] because you've made God -[3994.94 --> 3995.96] something He's not? -[3997.10 --> 3997.74] Or, -[3998.00 --> 3999.50] are your ideas of God -[3999.50 --> 4000.32] being challenged -[4000.32 --> 4002.50] because you've made culture -[4002.50 --> 4003.88] something it's not? -[4004.62 --> 4005.26] Or, -[4005.58 --> 4007.08] are your ideas of God -[4007.08 --> 4007.84] being challenged -[4007.84 --> 4009.36] because you've made -[4009.36 --> 4010.78] something or someone -[4010.78 --> 4012.36] other than God, -[4012.36 --> 4013.70] the God of the Bible, -[4014.08 --> 4016.10] true and more true -[4016.10 --> 4017.48] and authoritative -[4017.48 --> 4018.76] in your life? -[4020.32 --> 4020.52] Now, -[4020.92 --> 4021.24] I get, -[4021.64 --> 4022.70] especially for me -[4022.70 --> 4023.68] standing up on the stage -[4023.68 --> 4024.60] spouting these questions -[4024.60 --> 4024.86] at you, -[4024.94 --> 4026.60] these aren't easy questions -[4026.60 --> 4027.44] to answer. -[4028.64 --> 4030.76] And this kind of introspection, -[4031.06 --> 4031.28] right, -[4031.32 --> 4032.46] that we're talking about here -[4032.46 --> 4034.10] isn't done easily -[4034.10 --> 4035.70] and it isn't done -[4035.70 --> 4037.48] well alone. -[4037.48 --> 4040.98] but I want to suggest -[4040.98 --> 4041.42] to you -[4041.42 --> 4042.50] that, -[4042.60 --> 4044.52] that most of the time -[4044.52 --> 4046.14] when we get angry -[4046.14 --> 4047.24] or upset -[4047.24 --> 4048.54] or confused -[4048.54 --> 4050.32] by what God is doing -[4050.32 --> 4052.22] or what God is letting happen, -[4052.58 --> 4053.20] it's because -[4053.20 --> 4055.32] we're doing this last thing. -[4056.32 --> 4056.56] Right? -[4056.60 --> 4057.52] When your idea -[4057.52 --> 4058.56] of who God is -[4058.56 --> 4059.64] is being challenged -[4059.64 --> 4061.44] in your life, -[4061.48 --> 4062.46] it's most likely -[4062.46 --> 4064.16] because you've made -[4064.16 --> 4065.68] something other than -[4065.68 --> 4066.98] the God of the Bible -[4066.98 --> 4068.28] as more true -[4068.28 --> 4070.20] or more authoritative -[4070.20 --> 4071.90] in your life. -[4079.02 --> 4080.42] Peter prayed -[4080.42 --> 4081.48] to this effect. -[4082.68 --> 4083.96] In the world today, -[4084.62 --> 4086.12] if it doesn't make sense -[4086.12 --> 4086.78] to me, -[4087.68 --> 4089.06] then it can't make sense. -[4090.38 --> 4091.58] For people today, -[4091.58 --> 4093.02] what is good -[4093.02 --> 4094.02] is linked -[4094.02 --> 4095.80] to what gives me joy. -[4096.28 --> 4098.08] And if it makes me feel happy -[4098.08 --> 4099.04] or safe -[4099.04 --> 4100.18] or less anxious, -[4100.46 --> 4101.94] then it must be good. -[4103.10 --> 4103.78] And moreover, -[4103.94 --> 4105.04] there's this idea -[4105.04 --> 4105.78] that comes along -[4105.78 --> 4106.18] and says -[4106.18 --> 4108.08] that only I -[4108.08 --> 4108.88] can say -[4108.88 --> 4110.06] what is good -[4110.06 --> 4111.30] for me. -[4112.18 --> 4113.02] And then with that, -[4113.10 --> 4113.92] if I say -[4113.92 --> 4114.68] that it is good -[4114.68 --> 4115.26] for me, -[4115.50 --> 4117.20] you have to affirm it -[4117.20 --> 4118.06] as such. -[4118.06 --> 4120.08] If you don't, -[4120.58 --> 4122.14] you are an unsafe person. -[4123.74 --> 4124.00] Now, -[4124.18 --> 4125.26] let me be careful -[4125.26 --> 4125.66] because -[4125.66 --> 4127.32] I'm going to be blunt -[4127.32 --> 4127.72] with you. -[4128.00 --> 4128.88] Some of us -[4128.88 --> 4130.22] are just jerks. -[4131.52 --> 4131.64] Right? -[4131.68 --> 4132.10] Some of us -[4132.10 --> 4133.70] are unsafe people -[4133.70 --> 4134.74] that we don't know -[4134.74 --> 4135.10] how to have -[4135.10 --> 4136.00] these kinds of conversations. -[4136.16 --> 4136.44] We don't know -[4136.44 --> 4136.82] how to enter -[4136.82 --> 4138.04] into them well. -[4140.10 --> 4142.28] But asking hard questions -[4142.28 --> 4144.46] is not itself -[4144.46 --> 4145.70] unsafe. -[4146.22 --> 4147.38] Asking questions -[4147.38 --> 4148.64] in today's world -[4148.64 --> 4149.60] is sometimes seen -[4149.60 --> 4151.20] as an act of violence. -[4152.94 --> 4154.30] But that's because -[4154.30 --> 4156.70] we have made ourselves -[4156.70 --> 4158.44] the only -[4158.44 --> 4160.32] or the final authority -[4160.32 --> 4161.92] on ourselves. -[4163.18 --> 4164.06] No one, -[4164.30 --> 4165.48] not even God, -[4165.76 --> 4166.82] can get in the way -[4166.82 --> 4168.74] of my self-identification. -[4169.86 --> 4170.56] And then, -[4170.66 --> 4171.58] when you brush up -[4171.58 --> 4172.40] against that, -[4172.64 --> 4173.66] whether it's in yourself -[4173.66 --> 4174.72] or in conversation -[4174.72 --> 4175.68] with a friend -[4175.68 --> 4176.34] or a neighbor -[4176.34 --> 4177.84] or someone you love, -[4178.06 --> 4179.00] our ideas -[4179.00 --> 4180.44] about who God is -[4180.44 --> 4181.44] get challenged. -[4183.76 --> 4184.56] And again, -[4184.72 --> 4185.56] we're being candid -[4185.56 --> 4186.42] together this morning. -[4186.84 --> 4186.94] Right? -[4187.02 --> 4188.10] When that happens, -[4188.26 --> 4189.72] the easy thing to do -[4189.72 --> 4191.18] is to run away. -[4192.48 --> 4193.56] That's what Jonah did. -[4194.68 --> 4194.88] Right? -[4194.92 --> 4195.32] He said, -[4195.42 --> 4195.70] again, -[4195.78 --> 4196.22] in our text, -[4196.30 --> 4196.52] he said, -[4196.78 --> 4197.72] isn't that what I said -[4197.72 --> 4198.68] while I was still home? -[4198.82 --> 4199.82] That's why I fled -[4199.82 --> 4200.46] to Tarshish. -[4203.24 --> 4203.72] Nope. -[4204.90 --> 4205.72] Maybe you're not -[4205.72 --> 4207.26] as familiar with this -[4207.26 --> 4209.22] in the world today -[4209.22 --> 4210.32] as I am. -[4211.14 --> 4212.26] But maybe also, -[4212.38 --> 4213.12] you're here this morning -[4213.12 --> 4214.00] and you're living it. -[4214.80 --> 4215.72] But right now, -[4215.80 --> 4216.50] in our world, -[4216.64 --> 4218.96] there are a lot of people, -[4219.16 --> 4220.48] and primarily young people, -[4220.54 --> 4221.68] but not exclusively so, -[4221.76 --> 4222.74] there are a lot of people -[4222.74 --> 4223.76] who are doing -[4223.76 --> 4224.20] what's called -[4224.20 --> 4225.70] deconstructing -[4225.70 --> 4227.10] their faith. -[4227.10 --> 4229.42] A lot of people -[4229.42 --> 4230.84] are asking questions -[4230.84 --> 4232.82] and then just walking away. -[4233.74 --> 4235.68] In the evangelical world, -[4236.06 --> 4237.34] we call this -[4237.34 --> 4238.62] the process of becoming -[4238.62 --> 4240.12] an ex-vangelical. -[4242.00 --> 4242.24] Right? -[4242.30 --> 4243.40] And often it comes -[4243.40 --> 4244.60] from a circumstance -[4244.60 --> 4245.90] like we've already mentioned, -[4246.02 --> 4246.18] right, -[4246.22 --> 4247.60] where maybe the bubble -[4247.60 --> 4248.90] of your Christian upbringing -[4248.90 --> 4249.64] is popped -[4249.64 --> 4251.24] when you go away -[4251.24 --> 4252.48] to university -[4252.48 --> 4253.30] or you move out -[4253.30 --> 4254.14] or you get a job. -[4254.24 --> 4254.48] And then, -[4254.54 --> 4254.92] surprise, -[4255.90 --> 4257.08] there's people there -[4257.08 --> 4257.66] that you like. -[4258.52 --> 4259.50] They're not fools. -[4259.90 --> 4260.90] They're not licentious, -[4261.04 --> 4262.14] depraved animals. -[4262.40 --> 4262.94] They're fun -[4262.94 --> 4264.28] and they like you -[4264.28 --> 4265.56] and they don't judge you. -[4265.84 --> 4266.90] And then behind that -[4266.90 --> 4268.20] is a desire -[4268.20 --> 4269.62] that is seeking justification -[4269.62 --> 4270.62] for expression -[4270.62 --> 4272.12] and then the journey -[4272.12 --> 4274.24] of deconstruction begins. -[4275.46 --> 4276.48] And so you go on YouTube -[4276.48 --> 4277.40] or Discord -[4277.40 --> 4278.46] or Reddit -[4278.46 --> 4279.36] and then you find -[4279.36 --> 4280.40] a community of people -[4280.40 --> 4281.66] who are doing the same thing, -[4281.72 --> 4282.76] who feel the same way, -[4282.86 --> 4284.44] and they affirm that in you -[4284.44 --> 4285.72] because they need -[4285.72 --> 4286.90] that same affirmation -[4286.90 --> 4287.48] for the journey -[4287.48 --> 4288.28] that they're on. -[4288.50 --> 4289.66] And then after that, -[4289.74 --> 4289.94] right, -[4290.00 --> 4290.86] it always happens -[4290.86 --> 4292.06] that you get this group -[4292.06 --> 4292.44] of people -[4292.44 --> 4293.40] who have surrounded you -[4293.40 --> 4294.10] in this process -[4294.10 --> 4295.52] and then they celebrate -[4295.52 --> 4297.58] your work of deconstruction. -[4298.48 --> 4299.24] That's what's happening -[4299.24 --> 4299.98] in the culture today. -[4300.10 --> 4301.54] There's this celebration -[4301.54 --> 4303.86] because you've individuated -[4303.86 --> 4305.00] and differentiated -[4305.00 --> 4306.26] your parents' faith -[4306.26 --> 4306.86] and the faith -[4306.86 --> 4308.10] of that stodgy old pastor -[4308.10 --> 4309.44] that you grew up with -[4309.44 --> 4311.62] and now you have figured it out. -[4311.62 --> 4313.46] You're better off. -[4314.28 --> 4314.88] Except, -[4316.48 --> 4321.02] deconstruction isn't hard work. -[4322.36 --> 4323.24] It's not. -[4323.84 --> 4324.84] I'm going to suggest to you -[4324.84 --> 4325.44] that that's actually -[4325.44 --> 4326.54] the easy way out. -[4328.12 --> 4329.40] Don't buy the lie -[4329.40 --> 4331.04] that is then celebrated -[4331.04 --> 4332.48] because it's easy -[4332.48 --> 4333.78] to slide away. -[4335.02 --> 4335.50] In fact, -[4335.56 --> 4337.44] there's probably not anything easier -[4337.44 --> 4339.54] because it's the natural direction -[4339.54 --> 4342.22] of gravity in our faith lives. -[4342.34 --> 4344.02] Moving from belief to unbelief -[4344.02 --> 4345.38] doesn't take much work -[4345.38 --> 4347.84] and isn't honestly worth celebrating. -[4348.18 --> 4348.58] Instead, -[4349.12 --> 4350.38] and this won't surprise any of you, -[4350.64 --> 4352.16] but what I'm more interested in, -[4353.38 --> 4355.70] what I think is worth celebrating -[4355.70 --> 4360.08] is that when we move towards belief, -[4360.82 --> 4362.70] when our ideas of who God is -[4362.70 --> 4363.84] and what He should do in the world -[4363.84 --> 4364.92] are challenged. -[4365.92 --> 4367.30] That's the real work. -[4367.84 --> 4369.10] That's the real opportunity -[4369.10 --> 4370.38] for celebration. -[4371.98 --> 4372.24] And look, -[4372.30 --> 4373.42] I know a lot of you -[4373.42 --> 4374.40] are here this morning -[4374.40 --> 4375.80] who are young adults. -[4375.94 --> 4377.34] You've come back from university, -[4377.76 --> 4377.92] right? -[4378.00 --> 4380.10] And a lot of you -[4380.10 --> 4381.36] are here -[4381.36 --> 4382.52] who've recently -[4382.52 --> 4384.46] entered the professional world. -[4385.34 --> 4387.04] And a lot of you -[4387.04 --> 4387.94] here this morning -[4387.94 --> 4390.44] are living in this dynamic -[4390.44 --> 4391.38] right now. -[4392.26 --> 4394.32] Your ideas about God -[4394.32 --> 4395.94] are being challenged. -[4395.94 --> 4399.12] And part of what we do here -[4399.12 --> 4400.26] in our worship together, -[4400.26 --> 4401.84] in our community of faith -[4401.84 --> 4402.82] and discipleship, -[4402.82 --> 4405.32] is to challenge your ideas -[4405.32 --> 4406.34] that are being challenged -[4406.34 --> 4409.08] and to test them against scriptures -[4409.08 --> 4410.04] and to make sure -[4410.04 --> 4411.78] that they accurately reflect -[4411.78 --> 4412.98] who God is. -[4413.04 --> 4413.84] Because, yes, -[4413.92 --> 4415.08] our ideas of God -[4415.08 --> 4415.80] may be challenged, -[4416.00 --> 4417.36] but God can use -[4417.36 --> 4419.24] those challenging ideas. -[4419.24 --> 4420.44] and your theology -[4420.44 --> 4421.50] about God -[4421.50 --> 4422.74] must connect -[4422.74 --> 4424.54] to the ontology -[4424.54 --> 4426.22] you have of God. -[4426.36 --> 4426.80] That is, -[4426.94 --> 4428.40] what you think about God, -[4428.46 --> 4429.38] the ideas you have, -[4429.44 --> 4430.44] need to reflect -[4430.44 --> 4431.40] the reality -[4431.40 --> 4432.74] of who God is. -[4434.06 --> 4434.16] Right? -[4434.24 --> 4436.02] And better than running away -[4436.02 --> 4437.46] when we have hard questions -[4437.46 --> 4439.58] is pressing into worship, -[4440.02 --> 4441.24] is pressing into community. -[4442.40 --> 4443.38] Better than running away -[4443.38 --> 4445.68] is digging into our faith -[4445.68 --> 4447.44] with a community of people -[4447.44 --> 4449.24] who are walking -[4449.24 --> 4450.30] that same journey -[4450.30 --> 4451.44] with you. -[4455.06 --> 4456.22] In the story -[4456.22 --> 4457.80] that we read -[4457.80 --> 4458.68] in Jonah, -[4459.98 --> 4461.94] Jonah's theology -[4461.94 --> 4463.80] of who God is -[4463.80 --> 4465.68] doesn't match up -[4465.68 --> 4466.94] with who God is -[4466.94 --> 4467.86] in reality. -[4469.18 --> 4469.52] Now, -[4470.04 --> 4471.36] Jonah knows, -[4471.42 --> 4473.38] at least he can state -[4473.38 --> 4475.18] what he should believe -[4475.18 --> 4476.16] and think, -[4476.94 --> 4478.32] but he doesn't actually -[4478.32 --> 4479.00] believe and think -[4479.00 --> 4479.52] those things. -[4479.70 --> 4480.88] Look again at the text. -[4481.44 --> 4481.54] Right? -[4481.58 --> 4481.80] We read, -[4482.06 --> 4483.14] it seemed very wrong -[4483.14 --> 4483.66] to Jonah -[4483.66 --> 4484.92] that what God did -[4484.92 --> 4485.64] or didn't do, -[4485.74 --> 4487.00] and so he became angry, -[4487.24 --> 4488.16] and then he prays, -[4488.52 --> 4489.70] isn't this what I said? -[4489.76 --> 4490.66] This is why I fled -[4490.66 --> 4491.24] to Tarshish. -[4491.56 --> 4492.06] And then, -[4492.40 --> 4493.26] perhaps in the most -[4493.26 --> 4494.14] famous line -[4494.14 --> 4496.00] in all of the book -[4496.00 --> 4496.62] of Jonah, -[4497.06 --> 4497.44] he says, -[4497.52 --> 4498.88] I knew that you are -[4498.88 --> 4499.52] a gracious -[4499.52 --> 4501.10] and compassionate God, -[4501.24 --> 4502.40] slow to anger -[4502.40 --> 4503.38] and abounding -[4503.38 --> 4503.82] in love, -[4503.90 --> 4504.90] a God who relents -[4504.90 --> 4506.90] from sending calamity. -[4509.14 --> 4510.66] But you have to hear -[4510.66 --> 4513.16] what Jonah is saying -[4513.16 --> 4516.10] when he says that line, -[4516.72 --> 4518.20] not as an item of praise, -[4518.70 --> 4521.10] but dripping with irony. -[4523.42 --> 4523.62] Right? -[4523.64 --> 4524.78] This isn't spoken -[4524.78 --> 4525.56] as something -[4525.56 --> 4527.44] that Jonah is happy about. -[4528.24 --> 4528.48] Right? -[4528.50 --> 4529.10] It's true -[4529.10 --> 4530.28] about who God is, -[4530.28 --> 4531.68] but it's not -[4531.68 --> 4532.68] who Jonah -[4532.68 --> 4534.06] wants God to be. -[4536.10 --> 4537.54] His ideas of God -[4537.54 --> 4538.48] are being challenged, -[4538.98 --> 4540.34] so much so -[4540.34 --> 4543.34] that he wants to die. -[4549.52 --> 4550.48] Now, Lord, -[4551.02 --> 4552.58] take my life, -[4553.12 --> 4554.14] for it is better -[4554.14 --> 4555.28] for me to die -[4555.28 --> 4556.90] than to live. -[4556.90 --> 4560.78] when the source -[4560.78 --> 4561.42] of truth -[4561.42 --> 4562.66] in your life -[4562.66 --> 4563.82] is something -[4563.82 --> 4564.76] or someone -[4564.76 --> 4566.78] other than God, -[4566.92 --> 4567.70] when the source -[4567.70 --> 4568.52] of authority -[4568.52 --> 4569.60] in your being -[4569.60 --> 4571.14] is your own heart -[4571.14 --> 4572.40] or your own feelings, -[4572.54 --> 4573.68] when your identity -[4573.68 --> 4574.48] is rooted -[4574.48 --> 4575.22] in something -[4575.22 --> 4576.00] other than -[4576.00 --> 4577.28] the transcendent, -[4577.62 --> 4578.70] omnipotent God, -[4578.82 --> 4580.34] when that is taken away, -[4581.22 --> 4582.80] when that is challenged, -[4583.44 --> 4584.70] or when that is found out -[4584.70 --> 4585.60] to be inadequate -[4585.60 --> 4586.72] or insufficient, -[4587.48 --> 4588.70] not only can it feel -[4588.70 --> 4589.44] like your life -[4589.44 --> 4590.08] is over, -[4592.20 --> 4593.22] sometimes people -[4593.22 --> 4594.44] want it -[4594.44 --> 4596.00] to be over. -[4599.00 --> 4599.74] And look, -[4601.06 --> 4601.74] if you're -[4601.74 --> 4606.56] here this morning -[4606.56 --> 4608.38] and you were struggling -[4608.38 --> 4609.30] with thoughts -[4609.30 --> 4610.46] of suicide, -[4610.72 --> 4611.36] if you were struggling -[4611.36 --> 4612.38] with ideas -[4612.38 --> 4613.40] of suicide, -[4613.58 --> 4613.96] please, -[4614.40 --> 4616.24] know that you -[4616.24 --> 4618.26] are not alone. -[4618.52 --> 4619.56] Know that we -[4619.56 --> 4620.28] are here -[4620.28 --> 4621.04] with you -[4621.04 --> 4622.08] and please, -[4622.24 --> 4623.36] I plead with you, -[4623.44 --> 4624.72] talk with someone. -[4625.36 --> 4625.44] Right? -[4625.50 --> 4626.04] Talk to me -[4626.04 --> 4627.50] or to Pastor Kevin -[4627.50 --> 4628.18] or to Josh -[4628.18 --> 4629.74] or to your youth leaders -[4629.74 --> 4630.52] or your friends, -[4630.68 --> 4631.62] your care group. -[4631.78 --> 4632.98] I don't care who, -[4633.12 --> 4634.00] talk to someone. -[4634.80 --> 4634.90] Right? -[4634.96 --> 4635.72] Talk to a friend -[4635.72 --> 4636.90] or a parent. -[4637.06 --> 4638.56] You are not alone -[4638.56 --> 4638.98] and no matter -[4638.98 --> 4639.82] how big -[4639.82 --> 4640.86] the struggle is, -[4640.90 --> 4642.16] no matter how world-ending -[4642.16 --> 4643.56] your crisis is, -[4643.74 --> 4644.86] you are not alone. -[4645.02 --> 4646.42] Let us walk with you. -[4646.52 --> 4648.10] Let us sit with you. -[4654.78 --> 4656.82] In my own life -[4656.82 --> 4657.70] and ministry -[4657.70 --> 4659.68] and in our ministry -[4659.68 --> 4660.94] here together, -[4660.94 --> 4664.18] there are still, -[4664.38 --> 4665.20] there are people -[4665.20 --> 4666.86] who are still -[4666.86 --> 4667.68] with us -[4667.68 --> 4668.74] now -[4668.74 --> 4671.32] because they asked -[4671.32 --> 4671.84] for help. -[4673.78 --> 4675.32] Let us be your help. -[4676.80 --> 4677.32] Please, -[4677.70 --> 4679.72] let us be your help. -[4680.72 --> 4681.58] You don't have to walk -[4681.58 --> 4682.06] this -[4682.06 --> 4683.58] alone. -[4683.58 --> 4689.80] You are never -[4689.80 --> 4691.84] alone. -[4698.34 --> 4699.44] When Jonah's, -[4699.44 --> 4704.22] when Jonah's ideas -[4704.22 --> 4704.86] of God -[4704.86 --> 4706.62] are challenged, -[4707.98 --> 4709.76] God comes to him -[4709.76 --> 4711.54] and he asks him -[4711.54 --> 4712.14] a question. -[4713.58 --> 4714.62] He says, -[4714.78 --> 4715.48] is it right -[4715.48 --> 4716.10] for you -[4716.10 --> 4717.68] to be angry? -[4719.50 --> 4720.02] I don't know -[4720.02 --> 4720.44] about you, -[4720.62 --> 4721.28] but when I read -[4721.28 --> 4721.62] that, -[4722.06 --> 4723.06] that seems like -[4723.06 --> 4723.68] a really weird -[4723.68 --> 4724.14] question -[4724.14 --> 4725.44] in this moment. -[4725.54 --> 4725.66] Like, -[4725.70 --> 4726.62] Jonah has just said, -[4727.00 --> 4727.72] it's better for me -[4727.72 --> 4728.20] to die -[4728.20 --> 4729.38] and God goes, -[4730.50 --> 4731.22] should you be angry -[4731.22 --> 4731.72] right now? -[4733.94 --> 4734.14] Right? -[4734.16 --> 4734.86] It seems like -[4734.86 --> 4735.86] a strange question -[4735.86 --> 4737.72] until we see it -[4737.72 --> 4739.18] in the whole context -[4739.18 --> 4740.04] of what's going on -[4740.04 --> 4740.36] and then -[4740.36 --> 4741.56] through that context -[4741.56 --> 4742.64] read what I believe -[4742.64 --> 4743.56] to be the sort -[4743.56 --> 4744.22] of subtext -[4744.22 --> 4745.46] of the question -[4745.46 --> 4746.64] because what Jonah -[4746.64 --> 4748.10] is really encountering -[4748.10 --> 4748.60] and what God -[4748.60 --> 4750.18] is really questioning -[4750.18 --> 4751.34] Jonah about here -[4751.34 --> 4753.58] is God saying -[4753.58 --> 4754.34] to him, -[4754.46 --> 4755.34] like God said -[4755.34 --> 4756.06] to Job, -[4756.14 --> 4756.98] for instance, -[4757.38 --> 4758.66] will you let me -[4758.66 --> 4759.36] be God -[4759.36 --> 4760.56] in this moment? -[4762.50 --> 4763.82] If you are unfamiliar, -[4764.04 --> 4765.02] the story of Job -[4765.02 --> 4766.04] is another story -[4766.04 --> 4767.04] in the Bible -[4767.04 --> 4768.36] and it's a story -[4768.36 --> 4768.94] about a man -[4768.94 --> 4770.32] who lost everything. -[4770.32 --> 4771.56] And in fact, -[4771.62 --> 4772.52] there was a challenge -[4772.52 --> 4774.06] from Satan, -[4774.22 --> 4774.72] from the devil, -[4774.92 --> 4775.58] the deceiver, -[4775.80 --> 4776.54] to God -[4776.54 --> 4776.90] to say, -[4777.16 --> 4777.84] look at Job -[4777.84 --> 4778.58] who is righteous. -[4779.04 --> 4780.16] If I take everything -[4780.16 --> 4780.82] from him, -[4780.90 --> 4781.94] he will curse God -[4781.94 --> 4782.90] and die. -[4783.94 --> 4784.22] Now, -[4784.30 --> 4785.20] most scholars -[4785.20 --> 4786.10] agree that -[4786.10 --> 4787.08] the book of Job -[4787.08 --> 4788.54] is one of the oldest -[4788.54 --> 4789.70] or first written -[4789.70 --> 4790.64] books in the Bible. -[4792.06 --> 4793.10] And that's because -[4793.10 --> 4793.76] it's tackling -[4793.76 --> 4795.36] a really hard question. -[4795.48 --> 4796.46] It's trying to make sense -[4796.46 --> 4796.92] of a world -[4796.92 --> 4798.64] in which there is evil. -[4798.64 --> 4800.68] This is called theodicy. -[4801.42 --> 4802.50] How do we understand -[4802.50 --> 4804.34] evil in light of God? -[4804.40 --> 4805.60] It's a way of making sense -[4805.60 --> 4807.34] of evil in the world. -[4807.54 --> 4808.56] And one way -[4808.56 --> 4809.42] of phrasing -[4809.42 --> 4810.60] this challenge, -[4810.76 --> 4811.68] this structure, -[4811.98 --> 4812.74] is often put -[4812.74 --> 4813.94] something like this. -[4815.40 --> 4816.58] If God is good -[4816.58 --> 4817.96] and all-powerful, -[4818.22 --> 4819.10] why then -[4819.10 --> 4819.78] is there evil -[4819.78 --> 4820.30] in the world? -[4821.66 --> 4822.22] Instead, -[4822.58 --> 4823.56] the idea goes, -[4823.96 --> 4826.12] either God is good -[4826.12 --> 4827.86] but not all-powerful -[4827.86 --> 4829.26] and that makes him -[4829.26 --> 4829.88] not God, -[4830.68 --> 4833.22] or he is all-powerful -[4833.22 --> 4834.56] and not good -[4834.56 --> 4836.36] and that makes him -[4836.36 --> 4837.54] something terrifying -[4837.54 --> 4838.38] and evil, -[4839.94 --> 4840.08] right? -[4840.18 --> 4840.56] But, -[4840.64 --> 4841.64] because there is -[4841.64 --> 4842.74] obviously evil -[4842.74 --> 4843.58] in the world, -[4843.90 --> 4845.28] what God cannot be, -[4845.40 --> 4846.26] the argument goes, -[4846.36 --> 4847.42] is both good -[4847.42 --> 4848.90] and all-powerful. -[4850.60 --> 4850.86] Now, -[4851.62 --> 4852.96] at the risk of -[4852.96 --> 4854.64] oversimplifying -[4854.64 --> 4855.64] a good philosophical -[4855.64 --> 4856.58] response to this -[4856.58 --> 4857.64] for the sake of our time -[4857.64 --> 4858.22] together this morning -[4858.22 --> 4858.74] because we want to -[4858.74 --> 4859.52] come to this table, -[4860.44 --> 4861.22] let me just say -[4861.22 --> 4863.22] that this argument, -[4863.64 --> 4863.78] right, -[4863.84 --> 4864.48] this idea -[4864.48 --> 4865.64] is an ancient one -[4865.64 --> 4866.62] and it goes all the way -[4866.62 --> 4867.70] back in its earliest -[4867.70 --> 4868.38] constructions -[4868.38 --> 4869.10] to Epicurus -[4869.10 --> 4870.42] and it rests -[4870.42 --> 4871.66] on the assumption -[4871.66 --> 4873.80] that if there is -[4873.80 --> 4874.90] a good reason -[4874.90 --> 4876.38] for a good God, -[4876.46 --> 4877.46] an all-powerful God, -[4877.46 --> 4878.48] to let evil -[4878.48 --> 4879.46] or to allow evil -[4879.46 --> 4880.20] in the world, -[4880.64 --> 4881.74] I should know it. -[4882.82 --> 4883.98] Or at the very least, -[4883.98 --> 4885.00] I should be able -[4885.00 --> 4885.90] to figure it out. -[4888.40 --> 4888.84] Now, -[4888.88 --> 4889.86] in the story of Job, -[4890.00 --> 4891.00] which is a theodicy, -[4891.14 --> 4891.44] remember, -[4891.60 --> 4892.58] it's written to answer -[4892.58 --> 4893.64] this question -[4893.64 --> 4895.38] at the very end -[4895.38 --> 4896.72] of the book of Job. -[4896.84 --> 4897.44] God says -[4897.44 --> 4898.84] in this beautiful picture -[4898.84 --> 4900.00] of who he is -[4900.00 --> 4901.06] and what he has done, -[4901.32 --> 4901.96] he says, -[4902.26 --> 4903.34] standing in front of Job, -[4903.46 --> 4903.68] right, -[4903.94 --> 4904.98] were you there? -[4905.86 --> 4906.58] Were you there -[4906.58 --> 4907.90] when I created the world? -[4908.02 --> 4908.56] Were you there -[4908.56 --> 4910.10] when I laid its foundations? -[4910.34 --> 4910.90] Were you there -[4910.90 --> 4911.94] when I created -[4911.94 --> 4913.24] the depths of the oceans -[4913.24 --> 4914.12] and all the creatures -[4914.12 --> 4914.84] within it? -[4914.88 --> 4915.34] Were you there -[4915.34 --> 4916.50] when I created the skies -[4916.50 --> 4917.34] and all the birds -[4917.34 --> 4918.16] that fly through it? -[4918.32 --> 4918.90] Were you there -[4918.90 --> 4920.12] when I cast about -[4920.12 --> 4920.98] the stars -[4920.98 --> 4921.98] and the planets -[4921.98 --> 4922.68] and the heavens -[4922.68 --> 4923.70] and made the universe? -[4924.16 --> 4924.98] Were you there -[4924.98 --> 4926.00] when I created -[4926.00 --> 4926.96] the Leviathan, -[4927.44 --> 4928.20] which coincidentally -[4928.20 --> 4928.98] is not unlike -[4928.98 --> 4929.68] the great fish -[4929.68 --> 4931.20] that swallowed Jonah up. -[4931.24 --> 4931.52] You can see -[4931.52 --> 4932.00] these stories -[4932.00 --> 4933.10] are tied together, -[4933.58 --> 4933.74] right? -[4933.80 --> 4934.48] Were you there? -[4934.62 --> 4936.24] And Job's basic response, -[4936.46 --> 4937.26] standing before -[4937.26 --> 4938.22] the glorious, -[4938.42 --> 4938.98] transcendent, -[4939.10 --> 4939.84] majestic God, -[4939.84 --> 4940.06] is, -[4940.42 --> 4940.72] Amen! -[4941.44 --> 4941.82] Amen! -[4942.46 --> 4944.20] You are God! -[4945.76 --> 4946.90] Job's response -[4946.90 --> 4947.64] is to see -[4947.64 --> 4949.24] how small he is -[4949.24 --> 4950.20] in the presence -[4950.20 --> 4951.30] of an omnipotent, -[4951.60 --> 4952.18] omniscient, -[4952.58 --> 4953.66] omnipresent God, -[4953.76 --> 4955.66] and so he worships. -[4956.98 --> 4957.72] Job says, -[4958.04 --> 4959.50] I know you can do -[4959.50 --> 4960.30] all things -[4960.30 --> 4961.26] and no purpose -[4961.26 --> 4961.92] of yours -[4961.92 --> 4963.38] can be thwarted. -[4964.82 --> 4966.26] Job is an example -[4966.26 --> 4968.24] that when we face -[4968.24 --> 4969.72] a crisis of faith, -[4969.84 --> 4971.20] when we face doubts, -[4971.34 --> 4972.34] when we face trials -[4972.34 --> 4973.14] and tribulations -[4973.14 --> 4974.42] on all sides, -[4974.52 --> 4975.44] the best thing -[4975.44 --> 4976.76] for us to do -[4976.76 --> 4978.26] is to remember God -[4978.26 --> 4980.26] and to worship Him. -[4982.06 --> 4983.00] And what happens -[4983.00 --> 4984.96] between God and Jonah -[4984.96 --> 4986.26] in these next verses -[4986.26 --> 4988.44] is a sort of lived parable -[4988.44 --> 4991.28] that comes to the same conclusion -[4991.28 --> 4993.04] as Job. -[4994.52 --> 4994.74] Right? -[4994.74 --> 4995.42] In his anger -[4995.42 --> 4996.42] and in his frustration, -[4996.64 --> 4997.60] Jonah sits down -[4997.60 --> 4998.14] in a place -[4998.14 --> 4998.96] east of the city. -[5000.10 --> 5000.86] The Lord provides -[5000.86 --> 5002.34] for him a leafy plant. -[5002.44 --> 5003.12] We have no idea -[5003.12 --> 5004.48] what this plant could be, -[5004.76 --> 5005.40] but He makes it -[5005.40 --> 5006.86] to grow up over Jonah -[5006.86 --> 5008.22] and to give shade -[5008.22 --> 5008.88] for his head -[5008.88 --> 5009.92] in order to ease -[5009.92 --> 5010.84] his discomfort, -[5011.10 --> 5011.68] we read. -[5011.76 --> 5011.90] Now, -[5012.08 --> 5013.78] we read it clearly -[5013.78 --> 5015.00] that this is -[5015.00 --> 5016.24] a miraculous plant. -[5017.36 --> 5017.46] Right? -[5017.48 --> 5018.46] That God does something, -[5018.58 --> 5020.48] He makes it to rise up -[5020.48 --> 5021.86] and then the very next day -[5021.86 --> 5023.30] to take it down. -[5023.30 --> 5024.40] The plant eases -[5024.40 --> 5025.08] his discomfort -[5025.08 --> 5026.30] and in verse 6 -[5026.30 --> 5027.06] we read that -[5027.06 --> 5029.38] Jonah is very happy -[5029.38 --> 5030.74] about the plant. -[5032.82 --> 5033.98] But as immediately -[5033.98 --> 5034.78] as the plant -[5034.78 --> 5035.46] rose up -[5035.46 --> 5037.70] and caused Jonah comfort, -[5038.26 --> 5039.34] the Lord took it away. -[5040.30 --> 5041.56] A worm comes -[5041.56 --> 5043.16] and chews the plant -[5043.16 --> 5044.44] so that when the sun rises -[5044.44 --> 5045.20] and a scorching -[5045.20 --> 5046.88] easterly wind comes, -[5047.04 --> 5048.36] the sun now blazes -[5048.36 --> 5049.24] on Jonah's head -[5049.24 --> 5049.94] so much so -[5049.94 --> 5050.86] that he grows faint. -[5050.86 --> 5051.72] And again, -[5051.88 --> 5052.64] Jonah says, -[5052.78 --> 5053.58] it would be better -[5053.58 --> 5054.72] for me to die -[5054.72 --> 5055.84] than to live. -[5056.38 --> 5057.30] And so God asks him -[5057.30 --> 5058.16] the same question. -[5059.12 --> 5060.22] Is it right for you -[5060.22 --> 5060.88] to be angry? -[5062.20 --> 5063.54] And God says to Jonah, -[5064.40 --> 5064.88] and this, -[5065.08 --> 5065.72] I think, -[5065.82 --> 5066.78] cuts deep -[5066.78 --> 5068.84] in our cultural moment. -[5069.82 --> 5070.76] God says, -[5070.88 --> 5071.40] effectively, -[5072.34 --> 5073.72] you linked -[5073.72 --> 5074.84] your fortune, -[5075.12 --> 5075.70] you linked -[5075.70 --> 5076.86] your well-being, -[5077.08 --> 5077.76] you linked -[5077.76 --> 5078.66] your experience -[5078.66 --> 5079.36] of comfort, -[5079.48 --> 5080.70] your source of joy -[5080.70 --> 5081.62] and happiness -[5081.62 --> 5082.64] to something -[5082.64 --> 5083.98] other than me. -[5085.10 --> 5085.94] Something that you -[5085.94 --> 5087.64] had no control over, -[5087.78 --> 5088.34] something that you -[5088.34 --> 5090.18] had no relationship to. -[5090.40 --> 5091.46] And because you -[5091.46 --> 5093.22] had put so much value -[5093.22 --> 5094.40] into that thing -[5094.40 --> 5095.82] when it was taken away, -[5096.02 --> 5097.20] you felt crushed. -[5099.20 --> 5100.28] But God is saying -[5100.28 --> 5101.18] that leafy plant -[5101.18 --> 5103.02] is not your savior. -[5103.02 --> 5107.06] That self-expressed -[5107.06 --> 5107.70] identity -[5107.70 --> 5109.92] is not your joy. -[5110.92 --> 5112.06] You are not -[5112.06 --> 5113.02] your own arbiter -[5113.02 --> 5113.74] of comfort -[5113.74 --> 5114.62] and truth. -[5114.80 --> 5115.92] I, the Lord, -[5116.26 --> 5117.98] am your only -[5117.98 --> 5119.14] comfort. -[5120.10 --> 5121.12] I, the Lord, -[5121.26 --> 5122.96] am your only -[5122.96 --> 5123.94] truth. -[5126.50 --> 5127.42] And then, -[5127.98 --> 5129.60] in my imagination, -[5129.84 --> 5130.86] as I read -[5130.86 --> 5131.92] this story, -[5132.12 --> 5132.84] I imagine -[5132.84 --> 5133.36] the Lord -[5133.36 --> 5135.04] looking at Jonah -[5135.04 --> 5137.80] and saying, -[5138.80 --> 5140.10] did I not love you? -[5141.44 --> 5143.48] Did I not choose you? -[5143.74 --> 5145.04] Even though you -[5145.04 --> 5146.62] needed the same grace -[5146.62 --> 5147.88] that was being offered -[5147.88 --> 5148.82] to the Ninevites, -[5149.04 --> 5150.82] did I not choose you -[5150.82 --> 5152.34] through no part -[5152.34 --> 5153.10] or capacity -[5153.10 --> 5154.26] of your own? -[5154.34 --> 5155.26] Are you not -[5155.26 --> 5156.76] even as depraved -[5156.76 --> 5158.46] as those Ninevites? -[5158.60 --> 5160.72] But did I not love you? -[5160.86 --> 5161.38] too. -[5162.52 --> 5163.90] And if I loved you -[5163.90 --> 5164.94] who deserved -[5164.94 --> 5166.30] not my love, -[5166.60 --> 5167.58] should I also -[5167.58 --> 5168.70] not love -[5168.70 --> 5169.86] the city of Nineveh? -[5171.22 --> 5171.98] God is saying -[5171.98 --> 5172.46] to Jonah, -[5172.78 --> 5173.68] I am God. -[5173.86 --> 5174.84] There is no other. -[5175.08 --> 5175.88] I am God. -[5175.96 --> 5176.86] I will not yield -[5176.86 --> 5177.58] my glory -[5177.58 --> 5178.34] to another. -[5178.50 --> 5179.34] I am God, -[5179.50 --> 5179.88] gracious -[5179.88 --> 5181.10] and compassionate. -[5181.34 --> 5182.22] I am God, -[5182.38 --> 5183.48] slow to anger -[5183.48 --> 5184.58] and abounding -[5184.58 --> 5186.16] in love. -[5186.16 --> 5190.26] Christian philosopher -[5190.26 --> 5191.04] Peter Kreeft -[5191.04 --> 5192.62] says that -[5192.62 --> 5194.52] the Christian response -[5194.52 --> 5195.90] to evil in the world, -[5196.00 --> 5196.90] the Christian accounting -[5196.90 --> 5198.40] of evil in the world, -[5198.48 --> 5199.48] the idea that God -[5199.48 --> 5200.24] is good -[5200.24 --> 5201.36] and all-powerful -[5201.36 --> 5202.28] and yet somehow -[5202.28 --> 5203.46] has a reason -[5203.46 --> 5204.34] to allow evil -[5204.34 --> 5205.10] to persist, -[5206.20 --> 5207.04] that Peter Kreeft -[5207.04 --> 5208.16] says that this idea -[5208.90 --> 5210.14] does not get -[5210.14 --> 5211.38] the Christian God -[5211.38 --> 5212.46] off the hook -[5212.46 --> 5213.50] for evil. -[5213.50 --> 5215.00] In fact, -[5215.12 --> 5215.88] as Peter Kreeft -[5215.88 --> 5216.52] puts it, -[5216.92 --> 5218.24] God puts himself -[5218.24 --> 5219.38] on the hook -[5219.38 --> 5220.44] for evil -[5220.44 --> 5221.38] in the world -[5221.38 --> 5222.34] and that hook -[5222.34 --> 5223.34] took the form -[5223.34 --> 5224.26] of a cross. -[5226.14 --> 5227.58] God took the form -[5227.58 --> 5228.60] of a man. -[5228.88 --> 5229.28] Jesus, -[5229.72 --> 5231.08] God incarnate, -[5231.20 --> 5232.50] God in the flesh -[5232.50 --> 5233.94] came into this world -[5233.94 --> 5235.16] and lived the life -[5235.16 --> 5235.92] I should have lived -[5235.92 --> 5237.18] and died the death -[5237.18 --> 5237.96] that I deserved. -[5238.20 --> 5239.70] He was put on that cross -[5239.70 --> 5240.82] for my sin -[5240.82 --> 5242.02] and for evil -[5242.02 --> 5242.76] in the world. -[5242.76 --> 5244.28] This is God's -[5244.28 --> 5245.46] display of love. -[5245.84 --> 5247.26] This is how much -[5247.26 --> 5248.94] He loves you. -[5250.08 --> 5252.10] He dies for you. -[5253.74 --> 5255.26] In the words of Jonah, -[5256.28 --> 5257.18] the calamity -[5257.18 --> 5258.58] that was reserved -[5258.58 --> 5259.34] for you, -[5261.28 --> 5262.60] Jesus bore on the cross. -[5264.50 --> 5266.00] This is the truth -[5266.00 --> 5267.00] of who God is. -[5267.68 --> 5268.74] And this truth -[5268.74 --> 5269.82] about Jesus -[5269.82 --> 5270.94] now comes -[5270.94 --> 5271.94] with a mission. -[5272.76 --> 5274.02] God says -[5274.02 --> 5275.04] in verse 11 -[5275.04 --> 5275.76] of our text, -[5276.76 --> 5277.48] says, -[5277.78 --> 5279.06] should I not have concern -[5279.06 --> 5280.72] for the great city -[5280.72 --> 5281.86] of Nineveh? -[5283.24 --> 5284.24] And so now, -[5284.36 --> 5284.72] this morning, -[5284.80 --> 5285.62] He asks you, -[5286.58 --> 5288.42] should I not have concern -[5288.42 --> 5290.04] for the neighborhood -[5290.04 --> 5290.66] of Murrayville? -[5292.24 --> 5293.74] Should I not have concern -[5293.74 --> 5295.90] for Walnut Grove, -[5295.90 --> 5297.68] for Brookswood, -[5297.68 --> 5299.06] for Langley City, -[5299.70 --> 5300.72] for Aldergrove, -[5300.86 --> 5301.80] for Glen Valley, -[5302.20 --> 5302.88] for Abbotsford? -[5303.56 --> 5305.26] Should I not have concern -[5305.26 --> 5306.92] for British Columbia, -[5307.30 --> 5308.06] for Canada? -[5309.16 --> 5310.90] Out of God's concern -[5310.90 --> 5312.06] for these places, -[5312.40 --> 5313.88] He sends you. -[5314.70 --> 5315.78] He sends you -[5315.78 --> 5317.74] as a missionary citizen -[5317.74 --> 5319.16] into the world. -[5320.24 --> 5320.94] A missionary -[5320.94 --> 5321.82] to proclaim -[5321.82 --> 5322.98] the gospel -[5322.98 --> 5324.02] of Jesus Christ, -[5324.02 --> 5325.38] the love of God -[5325.38 --> 5326.14] for the world -[5326.14 --> 5326.88] that He created, -[5327.20 --> 5328.16] and as a citizen -[5328.16 --> 5329.30] to reveal -[5329.30 --> 5330.48] His kingdom come -[5330.48 --> 5332.40] and His kingdom coming. -[5333.46 --> 5334.86] As missionary citizens, -[5335.14 --> 5336.32] we are called -[5336.32 --> 5338.12] to have our ideas -[5338.12 --> 5339.58] about God challenged, -[5340.06 --> 5340.64] and in fact, -[5340.76 --> 5341.48] to ensure -[5341.48 --> 5342.50] that our ideas -[5342.50 --> 5343.08] about God -[5343.08 --> 5343.70] are challenged -[5343.70 --> 5344.72] so that they might -[5344.72 --> 5345.98] accurately reflect -[5345.98 --> 5347.62] who God is. -[5347.62 --> 5348.98] and then, -[5349.64 --> 5351.22] as missionary citizens, -[5351.52 --> 5353.02] we go into the world -[5353.02 --> 5353.58] to challenge -[5353.58 --> 5354.54] other people's ideas -[5354.54 --> 5356.10] about who God is -[5356.10 --> 5358.12] and to be used by Him -[5358.12 --> 5359.12] to challenge -[5359.12 --> 5360.46] those ideas. -[5360.78 --> 5361.32] And so, -[5362.20 --> 5362.62] go. -[5363.90 --> 5366.94] Go as missionary citizens -[5366.94 --> 5368.38] and worship -[5368.38 --> 5370.96] our God. -[5371.36 --> 5372.78] Let's pray together. -[5372.78 --> 5378.46] Lord, -[5378.64 --> 5380.04] our God, -[5380.88 --> 5383.60] as we come -[5383.60 --> 5385.54] to Your table now, -[5385.70 --> 5386.22] we come -[5386.22 --> 5387.34] as those -[5387.34 --> 5388.62] who are commissioned -[5388.62 --> 5390.66] as missionary citizens. -[5391.40 --> 5392.54] We come -[5392.54 --> 5393.20] as those -[5393.20 --> 5394.20] who are called -[5394.20 --> 5395.34] to proclaim -[5395.34 --> 5396.92] Your gospel, -[5397.46 --> 5398.46] to reveal -[5398.46 --> 5399.68] Your kingdom come -[5399.68 --> 5401.68] and Your kingdom coming. -[5401.68 --> 5402.34] And so, -[5402.54 --> 5403.56] use us, -[5403.80 --> 5404.40] Lord God, -[5404.82 --> 5405.94] to reveal -[5405.94 --> 5407.06] Your heart -[5407.06 --> 5408.38] for the nations. -[5409.32 --> 5410.18] Use us, -[5410.46 --> 5410.96] Lord God, -[5411.54 --> 5413.42] to go into the world -[5413.42 --> 5414.28] to proclaim -[5414.28 --> 5416.24] Your gospel. -[5417.62 --> 5418.84] And as we go, -[5419.10 --> 5419.62] Lord God, -[5420.48 --> 5422.12] as we go, -[5422.22 --> 5423.02] we pray that You -[5423.02 --> 5423.98] would nourish us -[5423.98 --> 5425.24] here at this table. -[5426.10 --> 5426.88] Take the truth -[5426.88 --> 5427.60] of Your word -[5427.60 --> 5428.70] that we have just heard -[5428.70 --> 5429.30] proclaimed -[5429.30 --> 5430.34] and that we long -[5430.34 --> 5431.00] to live out. -[5431.00 --> 5431.84] take that truth -[5431.84 --> 5433.32] and make it tangible -[5433.32 --> 5434.18] for us -[5434.18 --> 5435.66] as we take this bread -[5435.66 --> 5436.50] and this juice, -[5436.56 --> 5437.66] as we take in -[5437.66 --> 5438.68] the Lord Jesus. -[5438.88 --> 5440.04] May we be united -[5440.04 --> 5441.00] to You -[5441.00 --> 5442.54] in our mission -[5442.54 --> 5443.00] together. -[5443.46 --> 5444.90] May we also -[5444.90 --> 5446.02] be united -[5446.02 --> 5447.62] to each other. -[5448.92 --> 5449.44] Lord our God, -[5449.48 --> 5450.88] we come to this table -[5450.88 --> 5452.00] as a testimony -[5452.00 --> 5453.12] that we -[5453.12 --> 5455.20] are Your family, -[5455.36 --> 5455.96] that these -[5455.96 --> 5457.26] are our brothers -[5457.26 --> 5458.28] brothers and sisters, -[5458.28 --> 5459.08] that we -[5459.08 --> 5460.26] are not -[5460.26 --> 5461.06] alone. -[5463.28 --> 5464.36] And as we eat -[5464.36 --> 5464.86] together, -[5465.50 --> 5466.40] may we also -[5466.40 --> 5467.18] live -[5467.18 --> 5468.30] together. -[5469.62 --> 5470.60] Meet us now -[5470.60 --> 5471.38] at this table, -[5471.50 --> 5471.86] we pray, -[5471.98 --> 5472.46] Lord Jesus, -[5472.72 --> 5473.56] in Your name. -[5474.28 --> 5474.66] Amen. -[5474.66 --> 5474.80] Amen. -[5474.80 --> 5483.76] As we come -[5483.76 --> 5484.74] to the table -[5484.74 --> 5485.20] together, -[5485.38 --> 5486.78] there's a bit -[5486.78 --> 5489.16] of a liturgy -[5489.16 --> 5489.96] for us, -[5490.90 --> 5491.74] a bit of -[5491.74 --> 5493.26] some movement -[5493.26 --> 5494.36] that we will -[5494.36 --> 5495.20] gather around, -[5495.36 --> 5496.08] and so there will be -[5496.08 --> 5496.92] words on the screen -[5496.92 --> 5497.44] behind me -[5497.44 --> 5498.04] that you are -[5498.04 --> 5499.00] invited to speak -[5499.00 --> 5500.54] as we come -[5500.54 --> 5501.84] to the table. -[5501.84 --> 5503.74] Church of Jesus -[5503.74 --> 5504.18] Christ, -[5504.40 --> 5505.16] lift up -[5505.16 --> 5506.00] your hearts. -[5508.74 --> 5509.40] Let us -[5509.40 --> 5510.00] give thanks -[5510.00 --> 5510.62] to the Lord -[5510.62 --> 5511.34] our God. -[5514.62 --> 5515.30] Let's pray -[5515.30 --> 5515.64] together. -[5517.00 --> 5517.98] With joy, -[5518.18 --> 5518.90] we praise -[5518.90 --> 5519.28] You, -[5519.52 --> 5520.44] gracious God, -[5520.96 --> 5521.60] for You -[5521.60 --> 5522.44] have created -[5522.44 --> 5523.36] heaven and earth. -[5523.46 --> 5524.16] You have made us -[5524.16 --> 5524.74] in Your image -[5524.74 --> 5525.92] and kept covenant -[5525.92 --> 5526.42] with us -[5526.42 --> 5527.46] even when we -[5527.46 --> 5528.94] fell into sin. -[5529.60 --> 5530.50] We give You -[5530.50 --> 5531.26] thanks for -[5531.26 --> 5532.32] Jesus Christ, -[5532.48 --> 5533.16] who by His -[5533.16 --> 5533.54] life, -[5533.94 --> 5534.16] death, -[5534.28 --> 5534.96] and resurrection -[5534.96 --> 5536.06] opened to us -[5536.06 --> 5537.30] the way of life -[5537.30 --> 5538.26] everlasting. -[5539.18 --> 5539.54] Amen. -[5541.48 --> 5542.58] Our Lord Jesus, -[5542.92 --> 5544.08] before He suffered, -[5544.28 --> 5545.02] gave us -[5545.02 --> 5546.04] this memorial -[5546.04 --> 5547.92] of His sacrifice -[5547.92 --> 5549.16] until He comes -[5549.16 --> 5549.52] again. -[5550.86 --> 5551.76] The Lord Jesus, -[5552.04 --> 5552.52] on the night -[5552.52 --> 5553.12] that He was -[5553.12 --> 5553.60] betrayed, -[5554.32 --> 5554.98] took bread. -[5556.22 --> 5556.62] And when He -[5556.62 --> 5557.48] had given thanks, -[5557.58 --> 5558.22] He broke it -[5558.22 --> 5558.66] and said, -[5558.66 --> 5560.16] this is My -[5560.16 --> 5560.62] body, -[5561.10 --> 5561.98] which is for You. -[5562.64 --> 5563.26] Do this -[5563.26 --> 5564.04] in remembrance -[5564.04 --> 5565.28] of Me. -[5567.16 --> 5568.20] And in the same -[5568.20 --> 5568.66] way, -[5568.78 --> 5569.78] He took the cup -[5569.78 --> 5570.80] after supper, -[5571.32 --> 5571.64] saying, -[5572.24 --> 5572.94] this cup -[5572.94 --> 5573.76] is the new -[5573.76 --> 5574.14] covenant -[5574.14 --> 5575.36] in My blood. -[5576.84 --> 5577.72] Whenever You -[5577.72 --> 5579.20] drink it -[5579.20 --> 5580.12] in remembrance -[5580.12 --> 5580.96] of Me, -[5581.58 --> 5582.78] we proclaim -[5582.78 --> 5584.10] the Lord's death -[5584.10 --> 5585.18] until He -[5585.18 --> 5586.68] comes again. -[5590.32 --> 5591.88] This is -[5591.88 --> 5592.84] the mystery -[5592.84 --> 5594.62] of our faith. -[5596.20 --> 5597.02] Through the death, -[5597.16 --> 5597.74] O Christ, -[5597.84 --> 5598.44] we await. -[5599.04 --> 5600.28] Through the resurrection, -[5600.52 --> 5601.72] we await with hope. -[5602.18 --> 5603.14] Your coming, -[5603.30 --> 5604.46] we await with hope. -[5605.16 --> 5606.46] Glory be to You, -[5606.60 --> 5607.20] Lord Jesus. -[5608.74 --> 5609.72] Church family, -[5609.84 --> 5610.66] the Lord has -[5610.66 --> 5612.20] prepared His table -[5612.20 --> 5614.04] for all who love -[5614.04 --> 5615.66] Him and who trust -[5615.66 --> 5617.26] in Him alone -[5617.26 --> 5619.18] for their salvation. -[5620.18 --> 5620.58] And so, -[5620.78 --> 5621.88] come to this table, -[5622.04 --> 5623.42] you who have much faith, -[5623.74 --> 5624.28] and come, -[5624.44 --> 5625.36] you who would like -[5625.36 --> 5626.08] to have more. -[5626.84 --> 5627.92] Come to this table, -[5628.06 --> 5628.82] you who have been -[5628.82 --> 5630.10] to this sacrament often -[5630.10 --> 5631.44] and you who have not -[5631.44 --> 5632.68] been in a long time. -[5632.90 --> 5633.88] You who have tried -[5633.88 --> 5634.72] to follow Jesus -[5634.72 --> 5636.20] and you who have failed. -[5636.60 --> 5637.90] Come to this table -[5637.90 --> 5639.66] because Jesus Christ -[5639.66 --> 5641.36] is raised. -[5642.10 --> 5642.62] Come. -[5642.62 --> 5643.74] If you are here -[5643.74 --> 5645.12] with us this morning -[5645.12 --> 5646.70] or if you are at home -[5646.70 --> 5647.74] and online, -[5647.96 --> 5649.44] come because it is Christ -[5649.44 --> 5651.98] who invites us here. -[5652.92 --> 5653.90] The gifts of God -[5653.90 --> 5655.12] for the people -[5655.12 --> 5656.12] of God. -[5657.40 --> 5659.00] As we come to this table -[5659.00 --> 5660.26] here in our church, -[5660.88 --> 5661.88] we will be ushered -[5661.88 --> 5662.40] to the front -[5662.40 --> 5663.16] and we will gather -[5663.16 --> 5664.14] in a circle. -[5664.66 --> 5666.06] We will pass the elements. -[5666.18 --> 5667.18] When you pass the bread, -[5667.34 --> 5668.52] we encourage you to say, -[5668.94 --> 5669.82] body of Christ -[5669.82 --> 5670.64] given for you. -[5670.84 --> 5671.98] When you pass the juice, -[5671.98 --> 5673.16] we encourage you to say, -[5673.28 --> 5674.20] the blood of Christ -[5674.20 --> 5675.62] shed for you. -[5676.34 --> 5677.34] And then you will return -[5677.34 --> 5677.94] to your seats -[5677.94 --> 5678.80] and then the ushers -[5678.80 --> 5679.80] will indicate -[5679.80 --> 5680.78] for the next row -[5680.78 --> 5682.06] to come up to the front. -[5682.88 --> 5683.96] As you make your way -[5683.96 --> 5684.64] up to the front, -[5684.78 --> 5685.44] we encourage you -[5685.44 --> 5687.28] to gather closely in -[5687.28 --> 5688.84] and spread out wide -[5688.84 --> 5689.44] to make sure -[5689.44 --> 5690.52] there is enough room -[5690.52 --> 5692.22] for everyone who comes. -[5692.90 --> 5693.96] We're going to begin -[5693.96 --> 5695.36] the first table -[5695.36 --> 5697.02] with our worship volunteers -[5697.02 --> 5697.76] and the elders -[5697.76 --> 5698.48] who are helping -[5698.48 --> 5699.66] facilitate this meal -[5699.66 --> 5701.24] so that they can lead us -[5701.24 --> 5702.04] in song -[5702.04 --> 5703.12] as we go through -[5703.12 --> 5704.08] the rest. -[5704.50 --> 5705.28] And then also, -[5705.90 --> 5708.54] we have prayer partners -[5708.54 --> 5709.66] available during -[5709.66 --> 5710.30] the celebration -[5710.30 --> 5711.00] of the Lord's Supper. -[5711.28 --> 5712.14] And so there are people -[5712.14 --> 5713.26] who will be in the foyer -[5713.26 --> 5714.98] with yellow name tags. -[5715.46 --> 5716.16] If you would like -[5716.16 --> 5717.10] to receive prayer -[5717.10 --> 5718.52] before coming to the table -[5718.52 --> 5719.58] or in place of coming -[5719.58 --> 5720.20] to the table, -[5720.56 --> 5721.40] they will meet you -[5721.40 --> 5722.34] at the back -[5722.34 --> 5724.30] and pray with you there. -[5725.18 --> 5726.04] Can I invite up -[5726.04 --> 5726.72] those who are -[5726.72 --> 5727.90] helping us serve -[5727.90 --> 5728.62] to the front? -[5754.18 --> 5755.14] Body of Christ -[5755.14 --> 5755.86] given for you. -[5755.86 --> 5755.90] Amen. -[5757.90 --> 5760.30] Body of Christ -[5760.30 --> 5760.98] given for you. -[5760.98 --> 5761.48] Amen. -[5787.90 --> 5803.52] Eat and remember. -[5803.52 --> 5820.08] the blood of Christ shed for you -[5824.08 --> 5825.52] the blood of Christ shed for you -[5825.52 --> 5855.50] the blood of Christ shed for you -[5855.52 --> 5874.86] drink and believe -[5874.86 --> 5889.16] as this first group is making their way to their positions -[5889.16 --> 5894.80] I just remind you that if you are unable to come up to the front for whatever reason -[5894.80 --> 5899.46] please indicate that to the ushering elder and they will serve you in your seat -[5899.46 --> 5911.62] I just remind you of the blood of Christ shed for you in your seat -[5911.62 --> 5913.26] wine -[5917.26 --> 5918.98] recently -[5918.98 --> 5919.10] it was heart of this -[5919.10 --> 5922.08] while the blood of Christ shed for you in your seat -[5922.08 --> 5932.44] and it was heart of God -[5932.44 --> 5951.58] Just as I act without one plea, -[5951.58 --> 5958.30] but that thy blood was shed for me, -[5958.30 --> 5968.30] and that thou bidst me come to thee, O Lamb of God, -[5968.90 --> 5974.30] I come, I come. -[5978.24 --> 5988.28] Just as I am, though tossed about with many a convent, -[5988.30 --> 5992.28] afflict men yet doubt, -[5992.72 --> 5997.44] fightings and fears within, -[5997.88 --> 6002.30] without, O Lamb of God, -[6003.16 --> 6008.30] I come, I come. -[6009.30 --> 6015.30] Just as I am, thou wilt receive, -[6015.30 --> 6022.30] wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, receive, -[6023.36 --> 6029.30] because thy promise I believe, -[6030.66 --> 6038.30] O Lamb of God, I come, I come. -[6038.30 --> 6043.30] O Lamb of God, I come, I come, I come, I come. -[6043.30 --> 6046.36] I come, I come, I come, I come, I come. -[6046.36 --> 6076.34] Thank you. -[6076.36 --> 6106.34] Thank you. -[6106.36 --> 6120.36] Let the pain and the sorrow be washed away in the waves of his mercy. -[6120.36 --> 6144.36] As deep cries out too deep, we sing, come, Lord Jesus, come. -[6144.36 --> 6154.36] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[6154.36 --> 6164.36] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[6164.36 --> 6177.36] All who are thirsty, all who are weak, come to the fountain. -[6177.36 --> 6183.36] Give your heart in the stream of life. -[6183.36 --> 6196.36] Let the pain and the sorrow be washed away in the waves of his mercy. -[6196.36 --> 6210.36] As deep cries out too deep, we sing, Holy Spirit, come. -[6210.36 --> 6226.36] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[6226.36 --> 6228.36] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[6228.36 --> 6238.36] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[6238.36 --> 6240.36] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[6240.36 --> 6242.36] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[6242.36 --> 6244.36] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[6244.36 --> 6246.36] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[6246.36 --> 6248.36] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[6248.36 --> 6250.36] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[6250.36 --> 6252.36] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[6252.36 --> 6254.36] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[6254.36 --> 6256.36] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[6256.36 --> 6261.80] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[6261.80 --> 6264.38] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[6264.38 --> 6281.78] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[6281.78 --> 6308.62] I love you, Lord, and I lift my voice -[6308.62 --> 6319.44] To worship you, O my soul, rejoice -[6319.44 --> 6331.14] Take joy, my King, in what you hear -[6331.14 --> 6337.04] May it be a sweet, sweet sound -[6337.04 --> 6341.04] In your ear -[6341.04 --> 6354.94] I love you, Lord, and I lift your voice -[6354.94 --> 6364.94] To worship you, O my soul, rejoice -[6364.94 --> 6376.94] Take joy, my King, in what you hear -[6376.94 --> 6382.94] May it be a sweet, sweet sound -[6382.94 --> 6386.94] In your ear -[6386.94 --> 6392.94] May it be a sweet, sweet sound -[6392.94 --> 6398.94] In your ear -[6398.94 --> 6404.94] May it be a sweet, sweet sound -[6404.94 --> 6410.94] In your ear -[6410.94 --> 6416.94] I exalt Thee -[6416.94 --> 6422.94] I exalt Thee -[6422.94 --> 6428.94] I exalt Thee -[6428.94 --> 6438.94] I exalt Thee -[6438.94 --> 6442.94] I exalt Thee -[6442.94 --> 6446.94] I exalt Thee -[6446.94 --> 6447.64] I exalt Thee -[6447.64 --> 6462.94] Oh, Lord, I exalt Thee -[6462.94 --> 6482.94] I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee, O Lord. -[6482.94 --> 6506.94] I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee, I exalt Thee, O Lord. -[6512.94 --> 6542.92] Thank you for saving me. -[6542.94 --> 6547.94] What can I say? -[6549.48 --> 6554.24] You are my everything. -[6555.62 --> 6558.94] I will sing your praise. -[6561.68 --> 6565.94] You shed your blood for me. -[6565.94 --> 6570.94] What can I say? -[6572.48 --> 6578.16] You took my sin and shame. -[6578.62 --> 6583.94] The Savior called by name. -[6583.94 --> 6596.48] Great is the Lord. -[6596.48 --> 6606.48] Great is the Lord. -[6606.48 --> 6616.48] For you know your truth has set us free. -[6616.48 --> 6627.48] You set your hope in me. -[6627.48 --> 6638.02] Mercy -[6638.02 --> 6642.94] Forgiven is my sin. -[6644.02 --> 6648.90] Jesus, my only hope, -[6648.90 --> 6653.90] The Savior of the world. -[6655.22 --> 6660.12] Great is the Lord, Lord Christ, -[6660.52 --> 6664.32] God, let your kingdom come. -[6664.32 --> 6671.08] Your word has let me see, -[6671.44 --> 6676.32] Thank you for saving me. -[6679.74 --> 6687.32] Great is the Lord, -[6687.32 --> 6698.32] Great is the Lord, -[6698.32 --> 6702.66] For we know your truth -[6702.66 --> 6708.20] Has set us free. -[6708.20 --> 6720.20] You've sent your hope in me. -[6720.20 --> 6729.20] Thank you for saving me, -[6729.20 --> 6735.20] What can I say? -[6735.20 --> 6753.20] To be his way. -[6753.20 --> 6773.32] Come out of sadness from wherever you've been. -[6773.32 --> 6778.18] Come brokenhearted, let rescue begin. -[6778.18 --> 6783.64] Come find your mercy, O sinner, come kneel. -[6784.10 --> 6788.64] Earth has no sorrow that heaven can't heal. -[6788.96 --> 6794.08] Earth has no sorrow that heaven can't heal. -[6796.26 --> 6804.68] So lay down your burdens, lay down your shame. -[6804.68 --> 6815.48] All who are broken, lift up your face. -[6815.88 --> 6820.14] O wanderer, come home. -[6821.26 --> 6823.74] You're not too far. -[6823.74 --> 6830.78] So lay down your hurt, lay down your heart. -[6831.16 --> 6833.58] Come as you are. -[6833.58 --> 6846.16] There's hope for the hopeless and all those who've strayed. -[6846.34 --> 6850.68] Come sit at the table, come taste the grace. -[6851.10 --> 6855.86] There's rest for the weary, rest that endures. -[6855.86 --> 6860.70] Earth has no sorrow that heaven can't cure. -[6862.70 --> 6871.34] So lay down your burdens, lay down your shame. -[6871.34 --> 6881.54] All who are broken, lift up your face. -[6881.54 --> 6886.74] Oh wanderer, come home. -[6886.74 --> 6890.54] You're not too far. -[6890.54 --> 6896.44] So lay down your hurt, lay down your heart. -[6896.84 --> 6900.96] Come as you are. -[6900.96 --> 6905.84] Come as you are. -[6905.84 --> 6910.58] Fall in his arms. -[6910.58 --> 6915.26] Come as you are. -[6916.26 --> 6921.08] There's joy for the morning, O sinner, be still. -[6921.70 --> 6926.00] Earth has no sorrow that heaven can't heal. -[6926.00 --> 6931.62] Earth has no sorrow that heaven can't heal. -[6933.62 --> 6941.66] So lay down your burdens, lay down your shame. -[6943.04 --> 6951.78] All who are broken, lift up your face. -[6951.78 --> 6957.02] Oh wanderer, come home. -[6957.02 --> 6960.26] You're not too far. -[6961.16 --> 6966.54] So lay down your hurt, lay down your heart. -[6966.96 --> 6969.40] Come as you are. -[6971.40 --> 6974.40] Come as you are. -[6976.40 --> 6979.24] Come as you are. -[6979.24 --> 6981.30] Come as you are. -[6981.78 --> 6983.82] Come as you are. -[6984.16 --> 6985.32] Come as you are. -[6985.50 --> 6986.98] Come as you are. -[6990.76 --> 6996.18] Come as you are. -[6996.96 --> 6997.96] Come as you are. -[6998.98 --> 7001.26] Come the Lord. -[7002.94 --> 7006.90] Come as I have. -[7006.90 --> 7028.90] Amazing grace, how sweet the sound -[7028.90 --> 7034.90] That saved a wretch like me -[7034.90 --> 7041.90] I once was lost, but now am found -[7041.90 --> 7047.90] Was blind, but now I see -[7047.90 --> 7055.90] T'was grace that taught my heart to fear -[7055.90 --> 7062.90] And grace my fears relieved -[7062.90 --> 7069.90] How precious did that grace appear -[7069.90 --> 7075.90] The hour I first believed -[7075.90 --> 7083.90] The Lord has promised good to me -[7083.90 --> 7090.90] His word my hope secures -[7090.90 --> 7097.90] He will my shield and portion be -[7097.90 --> 7103.90] As long as life and jones -[7103.90 --> 7111.90] Through many dangers, toils and snares -[7111.90 --> 7118.90] I have already come -[7118.90 --> 7126.90] Tis grace that brought me safe thus far -[7126.90 --> 7133.90] And grace will lead me home -[7133.90 --> 7142.90] When we've been there ten thousand years -[7142.90 --> 7150.90] Bright shining out of sun -[7150.90 --> 7153.90] We've no less days -[7153.90 --> 7157.90] To sing God's praise -[7157.90 --> 7167.90] Than when we first began -[7167.90 --> 7173.90] Amen -[7173.90 --> 7174.90] Amen -[7174.90 --> 7176.90] From gathering around this table -[7176.90 --> 7178.90] To whatever table you will gather around -[7178.90 --> 7180.90] Later today into this week -[7180.90 --> 7184.90] Know that you go with God himself -[7184.90 --> 7188.90] He goes with you in the receiving of his blessing -[7188.90 --> 7190.90] Before we offer that blessing -[7190.90 --> 7192.90] An invitation to you to stick around -[7192.90 --> 7194.90] After our service together -[7194.90 --> 7196.90] Fellowship will continue with coffee -[7196.90 --> 7197.90] And the like -[7197.90 --> 7198.90] As well -[7198.90 --> 7201.90] If you are interested in the announcement -[7201.90 --> 7203.90] I made earlier about new members -[7203.90 --> 7205.90] Welcome on June 4 -[7205.90 --> 7207.90] Or if you have questions about pastors class -[7207.90 --> 7209.90] Beginning on May 28th -[7209.90 --> 7211.90] I will be at the Connect booth -[7211.90 --> 7212.90] In the foyer there -[7212.90 --> 7215.90] You can grab me and address those questions -[7215.90 --> 7217.90] Pastor Kevin will be around as well -[7217.90 --> 7220.90] You can address your questions to him -[7220.90 --> 7224.90] Go then with the blessing of our good God -[7224.90 --> 7225.90] And I was just reminded -[7225.90 --> 7228.90] Also hand your ballot to the elder at the door -[7228.90 --> 7230.90] On the way out -[7230.90 --> 7234.90] Please hand that in having checked the box -[7234.90 --> 7236.90] Receive now the blessing of God -[7238.90 --> 7241.90] God go before you to lead you -[7241.90 --> 7244.90] God go behind you to protect you -[7244.90 --> 7247.90] God go beneath you to support you -[7247.90 --> 7250.90] And God go beside you to befriend you -[7250.90 --> 7253.90] Do not be afraid -[7253.90 --> 7256.90] Let the blessing of God come upon you today -[7256.90 --> 7258.90] Do not be afraid -[7258.90 --> 7263.90] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord -[7263.90 --> 7265.90] Amen -[7271.90 --> 7289.90] There's a place where the street shines -[7289.90 --> 7292.90] With the glory of the Lamb -[7292.90 --> 7296.90] There's a way we can go there -[7296.90 --> 7297.90] We can live there -[7297.90 --> 7298.90] We can live there -[7298.90 --> 7299.90] Beyond time -[7299.90 --> 7301.90] Because of you -[7301.90 --> 7303.90] Because of you -[7303.90 --> 7306.90] Because of you -[7306.90 --> 7309.90] Because of your love -[7309.90 --> 7311.90] Because of your blood -[7311.90 --> 7315.90] No more pain -[7315.90 --> 7317.90] No more sadness -[7317.90 --> 7318.90] No more suffering -[7318.90 --> 7319.90] No more suffering -[7319.90 --> 7320.90] No more tears -[7320.90 --> 7322.90] No more sin -[7322.90 --> 7323.90] No more sickness -[7323.90 --> 7324.90] No more sickness -[7324.90 --> 7326.90] No injustice -[7326.90 --> 7328.90] No more death -[7328.90 --> 7330.90] Because of you -[7330.90 --> 7332.90] Because of you -[7332.90 --> 7335.90] Because of you -[7335.90 --> 7337.90] Because of your love -[7337.90 --> 7339.90] Because of your blood -[7339.90 --> 7341.90] Because of your blood -[7341.90 --> 7346.90] All our sins are washed away -[7346.90 --> 7347.90] And we will live forever -[7347.90 --> 7349.90] And we will live forever -[7349.90 --> 7353.90] Now we have this hope -[7353.90 --> 7354.90] Because of you -[7354.90 --> 7356.90] Because of you -[7356.90 --> 7360.90] Oh, we'll see you face to face -[7360.90 --> 7362.90] And we will live forever -[7362.90 --> 7363.90] Now we have this hope -[7363.90 --> 7364.90] Because of you -[7364.90 --> 7365.90] Oh, we'll see you face to face -[7365.90 --> 7366.90] And we will live together -[7366.90 --> 7367.90] In the city of our God -[7367.90 --> 7369.90] Because of you -[7369.90 --> 7370.90] Because of you -[7370.90 --> 7376.90] Because of you -[7376.90 --> 7377.90] There is joy -[7377.90 --> 7378.90] Everlasting -[7378.90 --> 7380.90] There is gladness -[7380.90 --> 7381.90] There is peace -[7381.90 --> 7382.90] There is peace -[7382.90 --> 7383.90] There is wine -[7383.90 --> 7386.90] Although flowing -[7386.90 --> 7387.90] There's a wedding -[7387.90 --> 7388.90] There's a feast -[7388.90 --> 7391.90] Because of you -[7391.90 --> 7394.90] Because of you -[7394.90 --> 7395.90] Because of you -[7395.90 --> 7404.52] Because of your love, because of your blood -[7404.52 --> 7408.62] All our sins are washed away -[7408.62 --> 7412.16] And we will live forever -[7412.16 --> 7418.38] Now we have this hope because of you -[7418.38 --> 7423.48] Oh, we'll see you face to face -[7423.48 --> 7426.72] And we will dance together -[7426.72 --> 7432.74] In the city of our God because of you -[7432.74 --> 7437.74] All our sins are washed away -[7437.74 --> 7441.36] And we will live forever -[7441.36 --> 7447.50] Now we have this hope because of you -[7447.50 --> 7452.74] Oh, we'll see you face to face -[7452.74 --> 7455.98] And we will dance together -[7455.98 --> 7462.00] In the city of our God because of you -[7462.00 --> 7467.24] Oh, we'll see you face to face -[7467.24 --> 7472.48] And we will dance together -[7472.48 --> 7476.48] And we will dance together -[7476.48 --> 7479.48] And we will dance together -[7479.48 --> 7488.78] And we will dance together -[7488.78 --> 7490.78] And we will dance together -[7490.78 --> 7491.72] And we will dance jelly -[7491.72 --> 7492.98] And we will dance together -[7492.98 --> 7494.72] And we will dance together -[7494.72 --> 7494.74] And we will dance together -[7494.74 --> 7496.42] And we will dance together -[7496.42 --> 7496.72] And we will dance together -[7496.72 --> 7498.54] And we will dance together -[7498.54 --> 7498.74] And we will dance together -[7498.74 --> 7499.72] And we will dance together -[7499.72 --> 7529.70] Thank you. -[7529.72 --> 7559.70] Thank you. -[7559.72 --> 7589.70] Thank you. -[7589.72 --> 7619.70] Thank you. -[7619.72 --> 7649.70] Thank you. -[7649.72 --> 7679.70] Thank you. -[7679.72 --> 7709.70] Thank you. -[7709.72 --> 7739.70] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 15, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 15, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index e286d141b23c954cee1a270dafa8f566e2b2b226..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 15, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,108 +0,0 @@ -• Worship and creation as a display of God's power -• The heart of God in everything created -• Creation's pursuit of God's promises and voice -• Pain and suffering seen as part of God's plan -• God's ability to bring life from darkness and death -• Redemption and salvation through God's sacrifice -• Hope and new life springing up from the old ground -• God making beautiful things out of dust and time -• Upcoming church announcements and events -• Welcome to DeWinters party on May 28th at City Park and Al Anderson Pool -• Kids camp for children aged 3-7 from July 10th to 15th -• Pastors class after service today for those considering profession of faith or church involvement -• Announcement of a surprise party -• Invitation to stand and receive God's greeting -• Worship service begins with song and praise -• Sermon or teaching not included in this transcript -• Congregation sings hymns, including "I Sing a New Song" and "Holy, Holy, Holy" -• Prayers are mentioned at the end -• Worship of God as creator and first and last -• Confession of sin and seeking forgiveness -• Thanksgiving for Jesus' sacrifice on the cross -• Request for Holy Spirit's guidance and devotion to God -• Praise and thanksgiving for God's mercy and love -• Acknowledgement of sin and need for redemption -• Call to give gifts for church budget and special offering -• Seeds of Hope Children's Ministry started in 1995 and provides homes for HIV/AIDS affected children in Thailand -• New Reign Women's Home offers a secure environment and mentorship program for women affected by HIV/AIDS -• Orphanages are also run by Seeds of Hope in Zambia and Myanmar -• The organization aims to empower women and provide them with life skills, medical care, and education for their children -• Fundraising efforts were mentioned, including a specific offering next week -• Discussion on sleep and dreams -• Examples of things people think about when they think of sleep (e.g. dreaming, tiredness, nightmares) -• Personal anecdote about a dream where the speaker was a dog in Buckingham Palace -• Explanation that dreams can be connected to real-life experiences or thoughts -• Mention of a Bible story about a dream that will be discussed further -• Prayer and blessing before transitioning to another topic -• Reminder to ask Rachel and Adam about Brad's whereabouts -• Prayer for Janet Boat as she settles into her new home in Lacombe -• Prayer for John and Wendy Whitaker regarding their family member's health -• Discussion of God's presence throughout the Bible (Old Testament, New Testament) -• Reflection on the book of Genesis and its significance -• Request for guidance to live out God's truth and faithfulness in daily life -• Prayer for church leadership and pastors, including Pastor Chris, Kevin, Josh, Dan, Bill, Ed, and Rob Hogendorn -• Celebration of recent weddings and life events -• Condolences for the passing of a family member and prayer for the grieving process -• Reaction to a tragedy in Abbotsford involving a young family -• Prayer requests for individuals facing challenges, including cancer and moving to a new community -• Reflection on unseen struggles and praying for courage to start with God's right belief -• Requesting prayers for the message from Jude and Pastor Chris -• Reading from the book of Jude (verses 17-23) -• Analogy using hockey games to illustrate persevering through trials and tribulations -• The church is made up of those who are called, cherished, and kept. -• There are those who seek to divide and destroy this identity in Christ. -• A way to persevere in faith is by remembering, remaining, and rescuing. -• Identity questions are a pervasive issue in today's world, including sexual and gender identity. -• The problem with modern identity language is that it focuses on self-discovery and individuality. -• The gospel offers a permanence of identity based on the absolute permanence of God. -• This gospel identity becomes the foundation for persevering in faith despite challenges. -• The power of God's call carries individuals into His presence and relationship with Him. -• The purpose of worship services is not just to come before God, but for God to pick up those who are weary and heavy-laden and give them rest. -• God's call is not a one-way invitation, but rather He actively picks up and carries individuals into His presence. -• Being called by God means being a chosen people, royal priesthood, holy nation, and special possession of God. -• God cherishes and lavishly loves individuals as His children, created by the One who spoke the world into existence. -• The doctrine of immutability states that God is unchanging and does not mutate or change in His nature or character. -• Because God is immutable, He always means what He says and never changes His mind or love for individuals. -• The meaning of "being kept" in a relationship with Jesus Christ -• Identity as a believer and the promise that cannot change through faith -• Perseverance and standing firm against pressures to disobey or be someone else -• Division, destruction, and diversion from those who do not understand or follow God's word -• The importance of remembering biblical teachings and scriptures to build up one's faith -• A straight line from gospel identity to perseverance, trial, and the consummation of all that is -• The importance of remembering one's identity as called and cherished by God -• The difference between casual remembrance and a biblical sense of remembrance, which has transformative power -• The need to read and immerse oneself in the word of God to remember one's identity -• The role of community and the voice of Jesus in shaping one's identity -• The challenge of remembering who one is as a child of God and staying connected with God's love -• The importance of biblical teaching and prayer in building up one's faith -• The Bible teaches that God is love and His love for us is not something we can lose -• We remain in God's love because He keeps us there through His grace -• Neither death nor anything else in creation can separate us from God's love -• Our responsibility is to respond to God's love, not to earn it or keep it -• Responding to God's love means building ourselves up in faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, and waiting for Jesus' return -• The importance of being called, cherished, and kept in one's identity as a Christian -• The need to endure opposition, failure, or loss while staying grounded in faith -• The purpose and rescue that come from trusting in God's plan -• The reality that all Christians struggle with doubt, failure, and brokenness -• The importance of receiving mercy and forgiveness for past hurts and mistakes -• Being a hypocrite doesn't define one's faith or character -• Needing rescue and restoration from others, including rebuke, reconciliation, and redemption -• Doubts and questions are normal, but dwelling in mystery together can be beneficial -• Striving to be transformed from one degree of glory to another despite imperfections -• Being called, cherished, and kept by God -• The importance of building up faith through prayer and waiting for God's return -• Rescuing those who have forgotten or are forgetting their identity in Christ. -• Blessing and cherishing of God's children -• Holy Spirit filling believers with love -• Transforming hearts and minds to see truth about identity in Christ -• Truth of adoption by God as Father -• Living worthy of calling, remembering truth of love and being kept by God -• Rescuing one another and the world -• Firm foundation of Jesus Christ, cornerstone of life and faith -• Going with boldness, praying in Jesus' name -• References to scripture and hymns -• Assurance of God's presence and guidance -• Confidence in facing challenges and uncertainties -• Faith in Christ's love and redemption -• Celebration of life and its worth because of Christ's resurrection -• Expressions of gratitude \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 15, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 15, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 02de1b1babae5ee48782e605bbcb555d6aaaac26..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 15, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1655 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 7.00] In the vapor of your breath the planets form -[7.00 --> 14.00] And if the stars were made to worship so alive -[14.00 --> 21.00] I can see your heart in everything you made -[23.00 --> 29.00] Every burning star signal fire and grace -[29.00 --> 36.00] If creation sings your praises so alive -[50.00 --> 54.00] God of your promise -[54.00 --> 61.00] You don't speak in vain, no syllable empty your voice -[61.00 --> 68.00] For once you have spoken -[68.00 --> 71.00] On nature and science -[71.00 --> 76.00] Follow the sound of your voice -[76.00 --> 83.00] And as you speak -[83.00 --> 89.00] A hundred billion creatures catch your breath -[89.00 --> 98.00] Evolving in pursuit of what you said -[98.00 --> 105.00] And if it all reveals your nature so alive -[105.00 --> 111.00] I can see your heart in everything you say -[111.00 --> 116.00] Every pain is God -[116.00 --> 120.00] A canvas of your grace -[120.00 --> 126.00] If creation still obeys you so alive -[126.00 --> 127.00] So alive -[127.00 --> 133.00] So alive -[133.00 --> 139.00] So alive -[139.00 --> 146.00] So alive -[146.00 --> 152.00] So alive -[152.00 --> 160.22] If the stars are made to worship so alive -[160.22 --> 167.88] If the mountains bow the reverence so alive -[167.88 --> 175.36] If the oceans roar your greatness so will I -[175.36 --> 184.66] For if everything exists to lift you high so will I -[184.66 --> 190.20] And if the wind goes away you send it so alive -[190.20 --> 197.78] If the rocks cry out in silence so will I -[197.78 --> 207.08] If the sun of all our praises still fall shy -[207.08 --> 214.08] Then we'll sing it a hundred billion times -[214.08 --> 226.38] God of salvation chased down my heart through all of my failure and pride -[226.38 --> 233.38] God of salvation chased down my heart through all of my failure and pride -[233.38 --> 248.74] On a hill you created the light of the world abandoned in darkness to die -[248.74 --> 254.80] The light of the world abandoned in darkness to die -[254.80 --> 262.04] And as you speak -[262.04 --> 268.60] A hundred billion failures disappear -[268.60 --> 277.12] We lost your life so I could find it here -[277.12 --> 284.26] If you left the grave behind you so alive -[284.26 --> 291.08] I could see your heart in everything you've done -[291.08 --> 299.58] Every part designed in a work of art called love -[299.58 --> 306.72] If you gladly chose surrender so will I -[306.72 --> 308.72] If you gladly chose surrender so will I -[308.72 --> 313.56] I could see your heart and fill you a different way -[313.56 --> 322.64] Every precious one or child you died to save -[322.64 --> 329.06] If you gave your life to love them so alive -[329.06 --> 337.50] Like you would again a hundred billion times -[337.50 --> 344.46] But what measure could amount to your desire -[344.46 --> 351.28] You're the one who never leaves the one behind -[352.64 --> 358.40] quantities are set to you -[373.78 --> 376.92] All this pain -[377.86 --> 382.34] I wonder if I'll ever find my way -[382.64 --> 391.30] I wonder if my life could really change at all -[391.30 --> 400.54] All this earth -[400.54 --> 406.32] Could all that is lost ever be found? -[406.32 --> 412.22] Could a garden come up from this ground? -[412.64 --> 419.64] Could a garden come up from this ground? -[419.64 --> 423.64] You make beautiful things -[423.64 --> 427.64] You make beautiful things -[427.64 --> 431.64] Out of the dust -[431.64 --> 435.64] You make beautiful things -[435.64 --> 442.64] You make beautiful things out of us -[442.64 --> 449.64] You make beautiful things -[449.64 --> 453.64] All around -[453.64 --> 459.64] Hope is springing up from this old ground -[459.64 --> 461.64] Out of chaos -[461.64 --> 466.64] Life is being found in me -[466.64 --> 473.64] You make beautiful things -[473.64 --> 475.64] You make beautiful things -[475.64 --> 477.64] You make beautiful things -[477.64 --> 481.64] Out of the dust -[481.64 --> 488.64] You make beautiful things -[488.64 --> 490.64] You make beautiful things -[490.64 --> 492.64] Out of the dust -[492.64 --> 494.64] You make beautiful things -[494.64 --> 501.64] You make beautiful things -[501.64 --> 503.64] You make beautiful things -[503.64 --> 505.64] Out of the dust -[505.64 --> 507.64] You make beautiful things -[507.64 --> 508.64] You make beautiful things -[508.64 --> 514.64] You make beautiful things -[514.64 --> 515.64] You make beautiful things -[515.64 --> 517.64] Out of the dust -[517.64 --> 519.64] You make beautiful things -[519.64 --> 520.64] Out of the dust -[520.64 --> 521.64] You make beautiful things -[521.64 --> 522.64] Out of the dust -[522.64 --> 526.64] You make beautiful things -[526.64 --> 527.64] Out of the dust -[527.64 --> 528.64] Out of the dust -[528.64 --> 529.64] You make beautiful things -[529.64 --> 530.64] Out of the dust -[530.64 --> 532.64] Out of the dust -[532.64 --> 546.88] You make me new -[546.88 --> 552.56] You are making me new -[552.56 --> 558.54] You make me new -[558.54 --> 566.54] You are making me new -[566.54 --> 570.54] You make beautiful things -[570.54 --> 578.54] You make beautiful things out of time -[578.54 --> 582.54] You make beautiful things -[582.54 --> 588.54] You make my voice out of time -[588.54 --> 592.54] You make beautiful things -[592.54 --> 600.54] You make beautiful things out of time -[600.54 --> 616.54] You make beautiful things -[616.54 --> 622.54] You make beautiful things out of time -[622.54 --> 632.54] You make me new -[632.54 --> 636.54] You are making me new -[636.54 --> 642.54] You make me new -[642.54 --> 648.54] You are making -[648.54 --> 650.54] You are making me new -[650.54 --> 652.54] You are making me new -[652.54 --> 654.54] You are making me new -[654.54 --> 656.54] I want to increase my heart -[656.54 --> 658.54] I want to increase my heart -[658.54 --> 660.54] You make beautiful things out of time -[660.54 --> 662.54] You make beautiful things out of you -[662.54 --> 664.54] I want to increase my heart -[664.54 --> 666.54] I want to increase my heart -[666.54 --> 682.78] There's a peace I've come to know -[682.78 --> 689.28] Though my heart and flesh may fail -[689.28 --> 694.74] There's an anchor for my soul -[694.74 --> 701.28] I can say it is well -[701.28 --> 705.94] Jesus has overcome -[705.94 --> 712.46] And the grave is overwhelmed -[712.46 --> 718.76] The victory is won -[718.76 --> 721.40] He is risen -[724.74 --> 727.00] Good morning -[727.00 --> 731.00] Welcome to church -[731.00 --> 734.46] Special welcome if you are visiting with us this morning -[734.46 --> 735.28] My name is Chris -[735.28 --> 736.88] I'm one of the pastors here -[736.88 --> 739.62] And it's my privilege along with these others -[739.62 --> 744.94] And some more yet to lead us in our shared worship this morning -[745.28 --> 746.80] Each week as we come together -[746.80 --> 750.10] We've got a couple announcements that we want to put in front of you -[750.10 --> 751.02] And remind you of -[751.02 --> 752.52] And so I'm going to ask Kevin to come up -[752.52 --> 754.86] And as he makes his way up -[754.86 --> 758.42] I will say that there is pastors class after service today -[758.42 --> 761.56] And so if you are thinking about profession of faith -[761.56 --> 764.44] Or if you are thinking about church and life -[764.44 --> 767.22] That's a place to come and engage in those conversations -[767.22 --> 769.82] You can grab me after the service -[769.82 --> 771.36] If you want to ask questions about that -[771.36 --> 774.10] Otherwise for those who are in the class -[774.10 --> 776.48] We will meet in the multi-purpose room -[776.48 --> 778.78] After you grab a coffee and chat a little bit -[778.78 --> 780.36] And then head over there -[780.36 --> 784.86] I got a phone call this morning from Wendy Fulkerts -[784.86 --> 785.62] Who wanted to -[785.62 --> 786.42] She's in the nursery -[786.42 --> 788.32] So she was unable to make this announcement -[788.32 --> 789.76] So sorry you get me now -[789.76 --> 792.84] Wanted to remind all of you -[792.84 --> 794.82] That on Saturday May 28th -[794.82 --> 797.90] We are finally having a welcome to the DeWinters party -[797.90 --> 799.64] Two years later -[799.64 --> 801.84] Obviously pandemic related -[801.84 --> 804.36] We were unable to do something big and fun and festive -[804.36 --> 805.30] And so we are doing that -[805.30 --> 806.60] Not this coming Saturday -[806.60 --> 807.84] But the following Saturday -[807.84 --> 809.96] There's a lot of details in the bulletin for that -[809.96 --> 812.36] We are going to be meeting at City Park -[812.36 --> 814.16] And Al Anderson Pool for that -[814.16 --> 817.60] Please check the bulletin for more information -[817.60 --> 820.28] But what we are looking for is for people to sign up -[820.28 --> 821.98] So there's going to be a barbecue there -[821.98 --> 823.72] We're going to feed you burgers and hot dogs -[823.72 --> 825.84] But if only eight people sign up -[825.84 --> 828.34] And then 80 of you come -[828.34 --> 829.92] That's going to be a problem for food -[829.92 --> 831.66] So please talk to Dolores -[831.66 --> 832.38] I saw Dolores -[832.38 --> 833.14] She's right here -[833.14 --> 833.90] There's Dolores -[833.90 --> 835.64] Wendy Falkert's in the nursery -[835.64 --> 837.50] So you can flood her right now if you want -[837.50 --> 838.82] Just let her know -[838.82 --> 840.64] Or Dolores know that you're coming to that -[840.64 --> 841.76] And that would be very helpful -[841.76 --> 844.36] Also this coming week -[844.36 --> 845.42] If you are a kid -[845.42 --> 846.72] Or a parent of a kid -[846.72 --> 848.22] Who's aged three to seven -[848.22 --> 849.56] We are going to be hosting -[849.56 --> 851.64] A kids camp here at this church -[851.64 --> 853.04] In the summertime -[853.04 --> 854.82] So from July 10th to 15th -[854.82 --> 855.58] That will be happening -[855.58 --> 856.36] I say we -[856.36 --> 857.60] But it's Carolyn Spoor -[857.60 --> 858.46] And Samara Isinga -[858.46 --> 859.18] I don't know if they're there -[859.18 --> 860.06] They'll wave if they are -[860.06 --> 861.36] I don't see them -[861.36 --> 862.88] But they're here somewhere -[862.88 --> 864.34] In spirit at the very least -[864.34 --> 865.74] They're going to be hosting this kids camp -[865.74 --> 866.92] Sign up for that -[866.92 --> 867.76] And registration for that -[867.76 --> 868.70] Will be coming out this week -[868.70 --> 869.60] We're going to be inviting -[869.60 --> 870.52] Our community as well -[870.52 --> 871.78] So if that's something -[871.78 --> 872.56] That you are around -[872.56 --> 873.18] And interested in -[873.18 --> 874.00] Please keep your eyes -[874.00 --> 875.14] On the bulletin -[875.14 --> 876.90] And midweek memo this week -[876.90 --> 877.78] For that information -[877.78 --> 878.46] Thanks -[878.46 --> 881.30] So we're clear -[881.30 --> 882.28] This wasn't supposed to be -[882.28 --> 883.48] A surprise party was it -[883.48 --> 884.26] Okay -[884.26 --> 892.96] Yeah I mean -[892.96 --> 894.26] How do I follow that announcement -[894.26 --> 894.90] That'll be fun -[894.90 --> 896.78] Hopefully we'll see you on the 28th -[897.38 --> 898.68] Hopefully the weather -[898.68 --> 899.32] Will be nicer -[899.32 --> 900.58] And sunnier -[900.58 --> 901.40] And warmer -[901.40 --> 902.58] Than it has been lately -[902.58 --> 904.90] Also tonight -[904.90 --> 906.32] For the youth -[906.32 --> 907.56] There is HCBC -[907.56 --> 908.50] And if you have any questions -[908.50 --> 908.86] About that -[908.86 --> 910.20] You can grab Kevin again -[910.20 --> 912.22] So I'm going to invite you -[912.22 --> 913.28] As you are able -[913.28 --> 914.46] And where you are -[914.46 --> 915.08] To stand -[915.08 --> 916.94] And then as you stand -[916.94 --> 918.66] And we receive God's greeting together -[918.66 --> 921.00] Maybe take a posture of receipt -[921.00 --> 923.42] Because God is welcoming you -[923.42 --> 925.28] Into his presence -[925.28 --> 927.92] And so receive from him -[927.92 --> 929.26] His greeting -[929.26 --> 931.30] Grace -[931.30 --> 932.96] Mercy -[932.96 --> 934.58] And peace to you -[934.58 --> 935.62] From God our Father -[935.62 --> 937.04] And from the Lord Jesus Christ -[937.04 --> 937.64] His Son -[937.64 --> 938.84] And our Savior -[938.84 --> 940.32] Through the presence -[940.32 --> 941.02] And power -[941.02 --> 942.42] Of the Holy Spirit -[942.42 --> 943.86] Amen -[943.86 --> 951.38] Welcome to worship this morning -[951.38 --> 952.98] We proclaim -[952.98 --> 954.78] Worthy is the Lamb -[954.78 --> 955.82] Who was slain -[955.82 --> 957.58] To receive power -[957.58 --> 958.38] And wealth -[958.38 --> 959.12] And wisdom -[959.12 --> 959.90] And might -[959.90 --> 960.62] And honor -[960.62 --> 961.36] And glory -[961.36 --> 962.26] And blessing -[962.26 --> 964.30] Let's join together -[964.30 --> 965.46] In a time of song -[965.46 --> 967.42] And praise to our God -[967.42 --> 968.02] And Creator -[968.02 --> 970.34] Who has called each of us here -[970.34 --> 971.24] This morning -[971.24 --> 982.66] Ah god -[982.66 --> 993.52] พeter -[993.52 --> 998.20] Sanjama is the bomb -[998.20 --> 1025.06] When we said bornemental, here, in cross Carl Paul같, Mark Brown says hang in front of the coffee with Guy. -[1025.06 --> 1037.86] I sing a new song, to Him is His love, where the stars can sing. -[1041.36 --> 1053.86] Glory, glory, glory, the Son of God Almighty, who was in His, in His power. -[1055.06 --> 1064.48] For creation I sing, praise to the King of the earth. -[1064.48 --> 1071.86] You are my everything, I will for You. -[1085.06 --> 1094.48] The earth and rainbows, the earth and power. -[1094.48 --> 1100.48] The earth and rainbows, the earth and power. -[1100.48 --> 1106.48] The earth and rainbows, the earth and power. -[1106.48 --> 1110.48] Strengthen, glory, and power me. -[1112.48 --> 1116.48] You the only one I see. -[1116.48 --> 1131.48] Holy, holy, holy, the Lord God Almighty, who was in His, in His power. -[1131.48 --> 1141.48] To the creation I sing, praise to the King of the earth. -[1141.48 --> 1149.48] You are my everything, I will adore You. -[1149.48 --> 1166.48] You are my everything, I will adore You. -[1166.48 --> 1181.48] Filled with wonder, awestruck wonder, at the mention of Your name. -[1181.48 --> 1185.48] Jesus, I made His power. -[1185.48 --> 1189.48] The earth and living water. -[1189.48 --> 1193.48] Such marvelous history. -[1193.48 --> 1209.48] Holy, holy, holy, holy, the Son of God Almighty, who was in His, in His power. -[1209.48 --> 1225.48] You are my everything, I will adore You. -[1225.48 --> 1242.48] Holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, the Lord God Almighty, who was in His, in His power. -[1242.48 --> 1252.48] With all creation I sing, praise to the King of the earth. -[1252.48 --> 1261.48] You are my everything, I will adore You. -[1261.48 --> 1262.48] His how you are my everything, He speaks to the King of the Lord, -[1262.48 --> 1275.48] You are my everything, 152 Materials, Brick-Vonstart II Allegiance. -[1275.48 --> 1277.48] Rundish Brothers That You are my everything, Dueless. -[1277.48 --> 1280.48] Friends, for nóis, eu Tuhl-Stuy. -[1280.48 --> 1283.48] Deemb paiko, Th safe & find. -[1283.48 --> 1289.48] During time, there ein, tua omar ships are sa- Çin from the emperor. -[1289.48 --> 1290.48] Amen. -[1319.48 --> 1321.48] Amen. -[1349.48 --> 1351.48] Amen. -[1379.48 --> 1381.48] Amen. -[1409.48 --> 1411.48] Amen. -[1439.48 --> 1441.48] Amen. -[1469.48 --> 1471.48] Amen. -[1471.48 --> 1472.48] Amen. -[1472.48 --> 1473.48] Amen. -[1473.48 --> 1474.48] Amen. -[1474.48 --> 1475.48] Amen. -[1475.48 --> 1476.48] Let's pray together. -[1476.48 --> 1477.48] Amen. -[1477.48 --> 1478.48] Amen. -[1478.48 --> 1479.48] Amen. -[1479.48 --> 1489.48] Almighty, holy, and perfect God, we lift you up this morning in our worship, because -[1489.48 --> 1492.48] only you are worthy of praise. -[1492.48 --> 1496.48] You are the creator of all things good. -[1496.48 --> 1503.48] You are the first and the last, the God of the Old Testament and the God of the New Testament. -[1503.48 --> 1507.48] Beside you, there is no other God. -[1507.48 --> 1513.48] Yet, Lord, we confess that often we worship the wrong things in our lives. -[1513.48 --> 1516.48] We can worship money and success. -[1516.48 --> 1519.48] We can worship our possessions. -[1519.48 --> 1524.48] We can rob you of our time in devotion and service to you. -[1524.48 --> 1530.48] Lord, you know all of our sins and failings, no matter how hard we try to hide them from -[1530.48 --> 1533.48] others or even ourselves. -[1533.48 --> 1539.48] We confess that each of us have stumbled and sinned and fall short of your glory. -[1539.48 --> 1543.48] Lord, please forgive us. -[1543.48 --> 1554.48] We thank you, dear Jesus, our Savior, your sacrifice on the cross for the atonement you made for our sins. -[1554.48 --> 1558.48] We thank you for your grace through which we are forgiven. -[1558.48 --> 1566.48] Holy Spirit, help us to live our lives devoted to you and forever thankful for the cross. -[1566.48 --> 1570.48] In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. -[1570.48 --> 1572.48] Amen. -[1572.48 --> 1575.48] Thank you for saving me. -[1575.48 --> 1591.06] Thank you for saving me -[1591.06 --> 1595.06] The game I saved -[1595.06 --> 1600.60] You are my everything -[1600.60 --> 1606.50] I will sing your praise -[1606.50 --> 1612.28] You shed your blood for me -[1612.28 --> 1617.32] How can I save -[1617.32 --> 1623.10] You took my sin and shame -[1623.10 --> 1627.56] Sin upon my day -[1627.56 --> 1639.46] Great is the Lord -[1639.46 --> 1649.46] Great is the Lord -[1649.46 --> 1654.08] For we know your truth -[1654.08 --> 1659.36] Has sent us free -[1659.36 --> 1671.36] Besides our heart in me -[1671.36 --> 1680.26] Mercy and grace are mine -[1680.26 --> 1684.26] It is my sin -[1684.26 --> 1689.98] Jesus my only hope -[1689.98 --> 1694.26] Spirit of all -[1694.26 --> 1699.48] Great is the Lord -[1699.48 --> 1705.16] We know your kingdom come -[1705.16 --> 1711.16] Your mind has let me see -[1711.16 --> 1716.16] Thank you for saving me -[1716.16 --> 1726.06] Thank you for saving me -[1726.06 --> 1728.06] For we know your truth -[1728.06 --> 1732.06] Has sent us free -[1732.06 --> 1740.96] For we know your truth -[1740.96 --> 1745.96] Has sent us free -[1745.96 --> 1757.96] In such a heart in me -[1757.96 --> 1766.86] Thank you for saving me -[1766.86 --> 1773.86] What can I say -[1773.86 --> 1789.76] Praise the Lord -[1789.76 --> 1795.76] His mercy is more -[1795.76 --> 1803.28] Stronger than darkness -[1803.28 --> 1806.36] New every morn -[1806.36 --> 1808.66] Since they are many -[1808.66 --> 1812.66] His mercy is more -[1812.66 --> 1820.06] What love could remember -[1820.06 --> 1823.06] No wrongs we have done -[1823.06 --> 1825.96] A mission all knowing -[1825.96 --> 1828.96] He counts not their sum -[1828.96 --> 1831.96] Thrown into a sea -[1831.96 --> 1835.96] Without bottom or shore -[1835.96 --> 1840.96] Our sins they are many -[1840.96 --> 1843.96] His mercy is more -[1843.96 --> 1846.86] Praise the Lord -[1846.86 --> 1848.86] Praise the Lord -[1848.86 --> 1852.86] His mercy is more -[1852.86 --> 1854.86] His mercy is more -[1854.86 --> 1861.86] Stronger than darkness -[1861.86 --> 1864.86] New every morn -[1864.86 --> 1867.86] Since they are many -[1867.86 --> 1870.86] His mercy is more -[1870.86 --> 1873.76] His mercy is more -[1873.76 --> 1876.76] Come on -[1876.76 --> 1878.76] What gracious world -[1878.76 --> 1881.00] He does He most -[1881.00 --> 1881.76] He knows he is more -[1881.76 --> 1885.76] What father so tender -[1885.76 --> 1887.76] His glory is more -[1887.76 --> 1891.76] He will comes the weakest -[1891.76 --> 1893.76] From my wish to more -[1893.76 --> 1898.76] Our sins they are many -[1898.76 --> 1903.32] His mercy is more -[1903.32 --> 1906.42] Praise the Lord -[1906.42 --> 1914.52] His mercy is more -[1914.52 --> 1919.00] Stronger than darkness -[1919.00 --> 1921.94] New every morning -[1921.94 --> 1924.86] The sins they are heavy -[1924.86 --> 1927.80] His mercy is more -[1927.80 --> 1935.04] In riches of kindness -[1935.04 --> 1937.82] He lavished on us -[1937.82 --> 1940.82] His blood was all damaged -[1940.82 --> 1943.62] His life was not tossed -[1943.62 --> 1946.92] They sued me the deathly -[1946.92 --> 1950.88] In the wrath of God -[1950.88 --> 1953.82] Our sins they are heavy -[1953.82 --> 1956.88] His mercy is more -[1956.88 --> 1961.12] Praise the Lord -[1961.12 --> 1965.90] His mercy is more -[1965.90 --> 1972.38] Stronger than darkness -[1972.38 --> 1975.30] New every morning -[1975.30 --> 1978.16] For sins they are heavy -[1978.16 --> 1981.48] His mercy is more -[1981.48 --> 1983.32] New every morning -[1983.32 --> 1985.32] New every morning -[1985.32 --> 1987.54] His mercy is more -[1987.54 --> 1990.78] Since they are heavy -[1990.78 --> 1994.72] His mercy is more -[1994.72 --> 1997.62] I invite you to be seated -[1997.62 --> 2017.64] Good morning -[2017.64 --> 2020.16] We continue our worship -[2020.16 --> 2021.42] With the giving of our gifts -[2021.42 --> 2022.82] For the budget -[2022.82 --> 2024.70] Which is the administration -[2024.70 --> 2026.38] Of the church and its ministries -[2026.38 --> 2028.50] And the special offering -[2028.50 --> 2030.34] Which today is Seeds of Hope -[2030.34 --> 2033.34] Seeds of Hope Children's Ministry -[2033.34 --> 2034.88] Started in 1995 -[2034.88 --> 2038.04] After hearing about the plight of children -[2038.04 --> 2039.12] Orphaned because of AIDS -[2039.12 --> 2044.20] In 1996 Seeds of Hope Children's Ministry -[2044.20 --> 2045.38] Opened the first home -[2045.38 --> 2048.84] For HIV AIDS infected children -[2048.84 --> 2049.74] In Thailand -[2049.74 --> 2052.36] The new project -[2052.36 --> 2054.98] Van Azara meaning freedom house -[2054.98 --> 2056.12] For girls -[2056.12 --> 2058.84] And Van Unrak -[2058.84 --> 2061.38] Home of warmth and love -[2061.38 --> 2062.76] For boys -[2062.76 --> 2066.16] Were homes for children under 10 -[2066.16 --> 2068.98] Who had been rescued from human trafficking -[2068.98 --> 2070.56] During their stay -[2070.56 --> 2072.40] Children live in a family environment -[2072.40 --> 2075.14] Under staff trained in child trauma -[2075.14 --> 2077.04] Also in Thailand -[2077.04 --> 2078.56] Is the New Reign -[2078.56 --> 2079.44] Women's Home -[2079.44 --> 2081.74] Where HIV infected -[2081.74 --> 2082.88] Affected women -[2082.88 --> 2084.42] Who have been cast out -[2084.42 --> 2086.00] From their families and societies -[2086.00 --> 2088.50] Are able to live in a secure environment -[2088.50 --> 2090.64] At New Reign -[2090.64 --> 2092.50] These women receive love and hope -[2092.50 --> 2094.42] Through the mentorship program -[2094.42 --> 2096.98] They are given a comfortable -[2096.98 --> 2098.04] And secure home -[2098.04 --> 2099.06] With medical care -[2099.06 --> 2100.80] And given life skills -[2100.80 --> 2103.32] The goal is to empower the ladies -[2103.32 --> 2104.70] To be able to one day -[2104.70 --> 2107.30] Safely integrate back into society -[2107.30 --> 2109.00] Most importantly -[2109.00 --> 2110.34] At New Reign -[2110.34 --> 2111.82] The ladies get to experience -[2111.82 --> 2114.30] The love and gospel of Jesus Christ -[2114.30 --> 2116.64] Some of these women have children -[2116.64 --> 2118.22] So Rays of Hope -[2118.22 --> 2120.02] Provides for them as well -[2120.02 --> 2121.58] By keeping the family together -[2121.58 --> 2123.18] And making sure -[2123.18 --> 2125.40] The children get to go to school -[2125.40 --> 2128.34] Seeds of Hope also has orphanages -[2128.34 --> 2130.30] In Zambia and Myanmar -[2130.30 --> 2132.44] Please give generously -[2132.44 --> 2135.12] One person gives freely -[2135.12 --> 2136.48] Yet gains even more -[2136.48 --> 2138.80] Another withholds unduly -[2138.80 --> 2140.34] But comes to poverty -[2140.34 --> 2143.24] A generous person will prosper -[2143.24 --> 2145.94] Whoever refreshes others -[2145.94 --> 2147.14] Will be refreshed -[2147.14 --> 2150.26] Proverbs 11, 24 and 25 -[2150.26 --> 2152.24] Next week's offering -[2152.24 --> 2153.08] Is for the budget -[2153.08 --> 2154.14] And Wagner Hill -[2154.14 --> 2163.32] Sponsor -[2163.32 --> 2164.12] Theme music -[2164.12 --> 2164.80] Andives -[2164.80 --> 2165.52] To be therefore -[2165.52 --> 2165.88] Marառ -[2165.88 --> 2167.18] And the expert -[2167.18 --> 2167.86] Every character -[2167.86 --> 2168.44] And the third person -[2168.44 --> 2169.58] Find myself -[2169.58 --> 2172.68] Food -[2172.68 --> 2173.08] Good -[2173.08 --> 2173.62] Thing -[2173.62 --> 2174.28] At our -[2174.28 --> 2174.82] Joseph -[2174.82 --> 2175.42] pace -[2175.42 --> 2192.36] This is the air I breathe -[2192.36 --> 2200.08] This is the air I breathe -[2200.08 --> 2214.78] Your holy presence living in me -[2218.78 --> 2223.38] This is my daily presence -[2223.38 --> 2231.22] This is my daily breath -[2231.22 --> 2239.20] Your very love -[2239.20 --> 2246.38] Is spoken to me -[2246.38 --> 2251.02] And I -[2251.02 --> 2258.22] I'm desperate for you -[2258.22 --> 2266.22] And I -[2266.22 --> 2273.22] I'm lost with all you -[2273.22 --> 2285.78] This is the air I breathe -[2285.78 --> 2293.62] This is the air I breathe -[2293.62 --> 2307.18] Your holy presence living in me -[2307.18 --> 2317.02] This is my daily breath -[2317.02 --> 2325.02] This is my daily breath -[2325.02 --> 2330.86] Your heavenly breath -[2330.86 --> 2337.98] Is spoken to me -[2337.98 --> 2343.66] And I -[2343.66 --> 2351.50] I'm desperate for you -[2351.50 --> 2358.30] And I -[2358.30 --> 2366.14] I'm desperate for you -[2366.14 --> 2372.94] And I -[2372.94 --> 2382.14] I'm desperate for you -[2382.14 --> 2390.86] And I -[2390.86 --> 2397.98] I'm lost without you -[2397.98 --> 2398.98] I'm lost without you -[2398.98 --> 2417.82] All right, kids. -[2417.86 --> 2422.48] If you are age three up to grade four, come on up for Kids Corner. -[2428.98 --> 2437.48] All right. -[2438.68 --> 2446.30] So, this morning up here, I want to talk about a very, very wonderful, wonderful thing called sleep. -[2446.84 --> 2448.88] Who here likes it when they have to go to bed? -[2449.44 --> 2450.56] Who's excited to go to bed? -[2451.64 --> 2453.28] Kirby, a few of you are excited to go to bed. -[2453.34 --> 2455.22] You are very smart, very smart kids. -[2456.06 --> 2457.64] Who's not excited to go to bed? -[2457.64 --> 2464.46] Who stalls and is like, oh, I need a drink of water and now I have to go to the bathroom and I forgot to give my mom a hug. -[2464.70 --> 2465.86] Yeah, some of you do that. -[2466.84 --> 2467.02] Yeah. -[2467.62 --> 2470.12] What do you guys think of when you think of sleep? -[2470.20 --> 2471.66] What words come to your mind? -[2472.30 --> 2472.52] Zoe? -[2474.04 --> 2474.44] Dreaming? -[2474.76 --> 2475.28] What else? -[2475.86 --> 2476.12] Some more. -[2476.66 --> 2476.98] Sorry. -[2477.88 --> 2478.24] Tired? -[2479.36 --> 2479.60] Yep. -[2480.82 --> 2481.58] Can you say it louder? -[2482.72 --> 2483.12] Nightmares. -[2485.62 --> 2485.98] Cozy? -[2485.98 --> 2488.28] Maybe like pillows and blankets. -[2488.64 --> 2492.38] Well, Zoe, you actually mentioned what I want to talk about and that's dreaming. -[2492.56 --> 2494.48] Sometimes when we sleep, we have dreams. -[2494.58 --> 2495.86] Does anyone here have dreams? -[2496.84 --> 2499.38] Some people, maybe you remember them or maybe you don't. -[2500.08 --> 2501.84] Sometimes dreams can be very weird. -[2501.98 --> 2507.30] So, I'm going to tell you about my dream that I just had and you can tell me if you think this is very realistic. -[2507.30 --> 2511.38] So, in my dream, I was in Buckingham Palace. -[2512.02 --> 2513.72] That's where the Queen of England lives. -[2513.72 --> 2518.30] And I could see the whole palace and I thought I was myself. -[2518.50 --> 2520.92] But then I realized I wasn't actually a person. -[2521.24 --> 2522.32] I was a dog. -[2522.72 --> 2524.94] Because the Queen has little dogs called corgis. -[2525.30 --> 2527.42] And so, I was a dog but I had my own head. -[2527.88 --> 2529.68] So, it was like my head on dog's body. -[2529.68 --> 2534.86] And I was, my job was to go around and sniff out rats in the palace. -[2534.94 --> 2535.62] That was my job. -[2536.22 --> 2537.94] And I was, I think I was doing a good job. -[2538.66 --> 2542.58] And then all of a sudden, I went into a different room and it was a water slide. -[2542.58 --> 2546.80] And I went like zipping down this water slide and like flying off. -[2546.92 --> 2549.12] And then I landed on the ground and I looked at my paws. -[2549.40 --> 2554.28] And I realized that I had beautiful, long, curly hair but it was coming out of my paws. -[2558.08 --> 2559.68] Is that a kind of a weird dream? -[2560.44 --> 2560.76] Yeah. -[2561.30 --> 2565.40] Well, and the thing about dreams is sometimes they have to do with things that maybe we've done. -[2565.68 --> 2567.30] Sometimes they can be just totally weird. -[2567.30 --> 2574.72] But this dream kind of made sense to me because Isla and I are reading a book about the Queen and rats that are in the palace. -[2574.80 --> 2575.68] So, that kind of made sense. -[2575.76 --> 2576.74] And there's dogs in it. -[2576.78 --> 2578.82] And we've been talking about going to the water slides. -[2579.24 --> 2581.50] And I don't know about the curly hair coming out of my feet. -[2581.56 --> 2582.44] That was just strange. -[2582.60 --> 2586.18] But we are going to talk about a different dream that happened in the Bible. -[2586.30 --> 2588.76] It's at the very end of the Bible today in children's worship. -[2589.16 --> 2591.80] And some of it maybe might sound a little bit strange. -[2591.86 --> 2593.30] Maybe not as strange as my dream. -[2593.58 --> 2597.10] But we're going to talk about what that means and what we can learn about it today. -[2597.30 --> 2600.62] So, let's pray together and then we'll do the blessing before we go. -[2602.32 --> 2606.26] Lord Jesus, we thank you for this day that we can learn more about you here at church. -[2606.78 --> 2611.72] We thank you for the ways you speak to us through the Bible and through other people. -[2612.32 --> 2613.50] Through things like dreams. -[2613.68 --> 2617.52] And we just pray that we would have open hearts to learning more about your word today. -[2617.84 --> 2618.12] Amen. -[2619.34 --> 2619.80] All right. -[2619.84 --> 2620.34] Let's stand. -[2627.30 --> 2629.48] The Lord be with you. -[2629.48 --> 2659.46] Thank you. -[2659.48 --> 2669.48] Thank you. -[2669.48 --> 2677.94] My name is Rob and unlike what it says on the screen, I'm not actually a serving elder, unless -[2677.94 --> 2685.64] you're younger than me and I'm playing tennis with you or something like that. -[2685.64 --> 2689.64] I have a question for you to start off with. -[2689.64 --> 2694.64] Who was the prime minister in 1929? -[2694.64 --> 2698.64] Hmm. -[2698.64 --> 2703.64] I don't... -[2703.64 --> 2705.64] Mackenzie King. -[2705.64 --> 2706.64] Yes. -[2706.64 --> 2709.64] Thank you, Dave. -[2709.64 --> 2713.64] Let me be a little more specific. -[2713.64 --> 2716.64] May 15, 1929. -[2716.64 --> 2720.64] What happened on that day? -[2720.64 --> 2727.64] Do I have that right, Jerry? -[2727.64 --> 2732.64] Happy birthday to Jerry Jansen. -[2732.64 --> 2733.64] Thank you. -[2733.64 --> 2734.64] Thank you. -[2734.64 --> 2735.64] Thank you. -[2735.64 --> 2737.64] Thank you. -[2737.64 --> 2742.64] I did do the math. -[2742.64 --> 2747.64] We are 145 years between the two of us today. -[2747.64 --> 2757.64] As well, I understand on Friday we had a wedding with Shana and James. -[2757.64 --> 2762.64] I trust that went off without a hitch, although I guess that kind of was the point. -[2762.64 --> 2768.64] As well, I see we have Rachel and Adam with us. -[2768.64 --> 2769.64] It's great to see you. -[2769.64 --> 2771.64] I don't see Brad. -[2771.64 --> 2775.64] Did you bring Brad along this morning? -[2775.64 --> 2782.64] I don't care what you do after church, but please ask Rachel and Adam about Brad. -[2782.64 --> 2792.64] As well, in our family prayer, we'll remember Janet Boat, who just moved to Lacombe. -[2792.64 --> 2802.64] And I understand she is settling in well, so that's good, with her many family members in Lacombe. -[2802.64 --> 2807.64] And we'd also like to remember John and Wendy Whitaker, former members here. -[2807.64 --> 2817.64] Wendy's sister has been diagnosed with very aggressive cancer, and they're asking for prayer. -[2817.64 --> 2821.64] Let's come together in prayer. -[2821.64 --> 2826.64] God of the Bible, we come to you. -[2826.64 --> 2831.64] We're grateful for those words of long ago and long preserved. -[2831.64 --> 2835.64] Words of truth, inspired words, inerrant words. -[2835.64 --> 2840.64] As Peter mentioned this morning, God of the Old Testament, God of the New Testament. -[2840.64 --> 2842.64] We think of the book of Genesis. -[2842.64 --> 2845.64] We read, in the beginning God. -[2845.64 --> 2847.64] We can stop right there. -[2847.64 --> 2850.64] In the beginning God. -[2850.64 --> 2855.64] We read about how you are the creator of the universe, creator of humanity. -[2855.64 --> 2860.64] In Genesis we read about the stories of the patriarchs and their stories. -[2860.64 --> 2864.64] Dreams, as Nikki was alluding to before. -[2864.64 --> 2867.64] Your promises, your faithfulness. -[2867.64 --> 2875.64] Thank you for those models of faith that we see from Abraham and the character of Joseph. -[2875.64 --> 2879.64] Yet we can also identify with their flaws and their humanity. -[2879.64 --> 2885.64] God of the books of Ruth and Esther. -[2885.64 --> 2889.64] We love these heartwarming stories of grace and redemption. -[2889.64 --> 2893.64] We love to cheer the heroes and boo the villains. -[2893.64 --> 2898.64] But better yet, we can identify with our fellow Gentiles and fellow exiles. -[2898.64 --> 2902.64] And we can celebrate their inclusion in your covenant. -[2902.64 --> 2906.64] And our inclusion in your covenant. -[2906.64 --> 2912.64] And in the New Testament, we thank you as the God of the book of Jude. -[2912.64 --> 2916.64] We think about the warnings that Jude writes about. -[2916.64 --> 2921.64] Where we misuse grace and deny Jesus as Lord. -[2921.64 --> 2923.64] Forgive us for doing the same thing. -[2923.64 --> 2926.64] 2,000 years later, we still struggle with that. -[2926.64 --> 2932.64] Help us to see those tendencies in ourselves and come to you. -[2932.64 --> 2934.64] Help us to contend for the faith. -[2934.64 --> 2937.64] And that we can do so by living your truth. -[2937.64 --> 2938.64] Living in your truth. -[2938.64 --> 2942.64] And we pray that you help us to do so in real ways. -[2942.64 --> 2944.64] Not just here in the sanctuary. -[2944.64 --> 2946.64] But wherever we go from here. -[2946.64 --> 2950.64] Lord, we pray that your spirit will guide our beliefs. -[2950.64 --> 2955.64] In such a way that our practices will fall into line with our beliefs. -[2955.64 --> 2959.64] May we always get back to those words. -[2959.64 --> 2961.64] In the beginning, God. -[2961.64 --> 2966.64] Father, we thank you for what's going on in this church. -[2966.64 --> 2967.64] Things that are happening. -[2967.64 --> 2970.64] We thank you for the various ministries that happen here. -[2970.64 --> 2973.64] And there's so many people that are involved. -[2973.64 --> 2975.64] We pray that we're not just running programs. -[2975.64 --> 2980.64] But through that, that we are living out your calling for us. -[2980.64 --> 2982.64] That we can gather, grow and go. -[2982.64 --> 2984.64] And be balanced in that. -[2984.64 --> 2987.64] Father, we pray for Tuesday's council meeting. -[2987.64 --> 2991.64] We pray that their discussions as well would be rooted in right belief. -[2991.64 --> 2996.64] And that from that, that right actions would become clear and follow. -[2996.64 --> 3000.64] We thank you so much for the leadership in our church. -[3000.64 --> 3002.64] The influence of our pastors. -[3002.64 --> 3004.64] For, for Pastor Chris. -[3004.64 --> 3006.64] And for Pastor Kevin. -[3006.64 --> 3007.64] And, and for Josh. -[3007.64 --> 3011.64] Lord, we thank you for, for their being here. -[3011.64 --> 3013.64] And being a part of our church. -[3013.64 --> 3016.64] And, and for steering us in the right direction. -[3016.64 --> 3018.64] May they be grounded in, in your belief. -[3018.64 --> 3023.64] And, and not distracted by, by the responsibilities of their day to day tasks. -[3023.64 --> 3027.64] Father, we're also grateful for the pastors who have, who've come before. -[3027.64 --> 3029.64] We think of Pastor Dan in Fredericton. -[3029.64 --> 3032.64] Who taught us to be chaplains in all of life. -[3032.64 --> 3033.64] And all of life. -[3033.64 --> 3035.64] We think of Pastor Bill. -[3035.64 --> 3037.64] Of whom we still mourn his passing. -[3037.64 --> 3041.64] Who taught us the science of Christian living. -[3041.64 --> 3043.64] We thank you for Pastor Ed. -[3043.64 --> 3044.64] Now in Guelph, Ontario. -[3044.64 --> 3047.64] Who taught us a zest for Christian living. -[3047.64 --> 3050.64] And we also thank you for Pastor Rob Hogendorn. -[3050.64 --> 3052.64] And now in London. -[3052.64 --> 3054.64] Who taught us how to be a church. -[3054.64 --> 3056.64] Father, we thank you for them. -[3056.64 --> 3058.64] And, and the many faithful members. -[3058.64 --> 3060.64] Who have come before us. -[3060.64 --> 3062.64] And, and passed the baton to us. -[3062.64 --> 3064.64] And we pray that we may carry it faithfully. -[3064.64 --> 3070.64] And, and likewise that we can pass that faith on to those who will follow us. -[3070.64 --> 3075.64] We think of the number of significant happenings in our congregation. -[3075.64 --> 3080.64] Father, we celebrate with, with Shana and James their wedding. -[3080.64 --> 3082.64] And, and Adam and Rachel. -[3082.64 --> 3085.64] Father, we're grateful to hear of, of Marcus improvement. -[3085.64 --> 3087.64] Marcus improved health. -[3087.64 --> 3094.64] And we also, we, we mourn the passing of, of the Alexander's father and grandfather. -[3094.64 --> 3098.64] Bless them as, as they go through that, that grieving process. -[3098.64 --> 3103.64] Father, we're, we're shocked by the, the tragedy in, in Abbotsford. -[3103.64 --> 3105.64] Surrounding the young family. -[3105.64 --> 3109.64] Lord, we pray that you will bless that family and guide them through this. -[3109.64 --> 3113.64] We think too of, of John and Wendy Whitaker. -[3113.64 --> 3117.64] As Wendy's, Wendy's, uh, sister dealing with cancer. -[3117.64 --> 3120.64] Lord, we pray that you will bless that situation. -[3120.64 --> 3128.64] Uh, we also are thankful to hear that Janet is, uh, has been able to move to Lacombe. -[3128.64 --> 3131.64] Lord, we pray that she will be a blessing to that community. -[3131.64 --> 3133.64] And that they will be a blessing to her. -[3133.64 --> 3138.64] Father, these are some tangible things that we know, that we see. -[3138.64 --> 3144.64] We pray for those too, that are wrestling with big things that are happening beneath the surface. -[3144.64 --> 3149.64] Give them, uh, whatever that may be, or give all of us the courage to start with you. -[3149.64 --> 3153.64] To start with that right belief and that our practices may follow. -[3153.64 --> 3157.64] Uh, in closing, we, we ask for your prayer. -[3157.64 --> 3163.64] We ask for prayer on, uh, blessing this, the message that will come to us from the words of Jude. -[3163.64 --> 3166.64] And, and from the voice of Pastor Chris. -[3166.64 --> 3168.64] Lord, may our ears be open. -[3168.64 --> 3170.64] May our hearts be receptive. -[3170.64 --> 3175.64] And may our, uh, actions move us to your will. -[3175.64 --> 3176.64] In your name we pray. -[3176.64 --> 3177.64] Amen. -[3177.64 --> 3178.64] Amen. -[3178.64 --> 3179.64] Amen. -[3179.64 --> 3207.12] We indeed are going to look at the book of Jude. -[3207.12 --> 3213.60] And so, as always, I really encourage you to have a Bible, have that open. -[3213.72 --> 3220.62] We're going to read verses 17 through 23 together. -[3230.62 --> 3231.18] Okay. -[3233.94 --> 3236.44] From the book of Jude, in verse 17. -[3237.12 --> 3245.18] But, dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. -[3246.12 --> 3246.98] They said to you, -[3246.98 --> 3276.98] -[3276.98 --> 3288.62] This is the word of the Lord. -[3288.62 --> 3297.36] And to others, show mercy mixed with fear, hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh. -[3297.36 --> 3300.14] This is the word of the Lord. -[3300.14 --> 3308.94] Now, you may have noticed that this morning I'm wearing my funeral jacket. -[3308.94 --> 3315.94] And I'm wearing my funeral jacket because we are mourning the end of the hockey season for the Toronto Maple Leafs. -[3315.94 --> 3325.62] Now, in all reality, I don't actually care, even though I'm from Ontario. -[3325.62 --> 3331.26] But, I bring it up because it's always interesting, right? -[3331.36 --> 3337.62] And being surrounded by Leafs fans my entire life, I know this to be true, that when the season ends, right? -[3337.62 --> 3341.28] Instead of, you know, there's always next year, or we played our hardest. -[3341.62 --> 3343.92] It's always, oh, we got robbed. -[3344.22 --> 3345.52] Tavares' goal should have counted. -[3346.72 --> 3348.92] Oh, the officials stole that from us. -[3348.92 --> 3351.78] When can it be our time? -[3354.58 --> 3365.26] And they have to take the lumps in the media and from people like Pastor Kevin and pursue forward. -[3365.68 --> 3372.30] Now, you might also notice that I'm wearing my party socks because we're celebrating that the Edmonton Oilers have won. -[3374.50 --> 3376.90] That was my only concession to you. -[3376.90 --> 3380.88] Having given him that, I will tell you that I destroyed him in golf this week. -[3382.04 --> 3385.16] And so, now he's going to have to go back to the drawing board and figure out, -[3385.46 --> 3386.38] how am I going to pursue? -[3386.70 --> 3387.78] How am I going to get better? -[3388.02 --> 3390.58] How am I going to endure the next time we face this challenge? -[3391.68 --> 3393.18] There's a point to all this, I promise. -[3396.84 --> 3404.26] Sports, athletic contests, are a really great example of what to do when things get hard. -[3404.26 --> 3404.66] Right? -[3405.60 --> 3411.58] And they're a really great way of teaching kids how to endure in the face of trial and opposition. -[3412.24 --> 3412.74] Right? -[3412.82 --> 3418.34] Sometimes you have to learn how to overcome tragic defeat. -[3418.68 --> 3425.48] Or learn how to overcome 35 years of tragic defeat. -[3425.48 --> 3430.36] Or learn how to be a gracious winner when your team wins. -[3435.32 --> 3437.44] And sports do that for us. -[3438.04 --> 3445.08] And they do that for our kids as we teach them how to face trials and press on. -[3445.20 --> 3449.86] How to engage failure and try again. -[3449.92 --> 3452.42] Now, there are lots of other things that do that in life. -[3452.42 --> 3455.04] So, if you're not a sports person, just pick your thing. -[3455.98 --> 3456.16] Right? -[3456.28 --> 3459.58] But we learn how to do that. -[3461.38 --> 3470.04] I think that is a good starting metaphor for what Jude wants us to see and do in this particular text. -[3470.64 --> 3475.04] In the face of trial, in the face of division or deceit or destruction, -[3475.04 --> 3481.92] how do you persevere through onto something greater and something bigger? -[3482.66 --> 3487.88] Well, we're going to see in this text here from Jude, these few short verses, -[3488.40 --> 3493.32] that the church is made up of those who are called, cherished, and kept. -[3493.32 --> 3502.72] And yet, there are those who seek to divide and destroy and divert from this identity in Christ. -[3502.72 --> 3508.26] But that there is a way for you to persevere in faith and in the faith. -[3508.74 --> 3512.70] And you do that by remembering, remaining, and rescuing. -[3513.70 --> 3518.84] And so, for those of you who are note takers, there's a real simple three-part outline. -[3518.84 --> 3519.16] Right? -[3519.52 --> 3521.26] Called, cherished, kept. -[3521.40 --> 3522.24] That's part one. -[3522.84 --> 3524.52] Divide, destroy, divert. -[3524.68 --> 3525.56] That's part two. -[3525.76 --> 3530.80] And then part three, where we will land, is remember, remain, and rescue. -[3532.18 --> 3538.02] And so, first, who you are in Jesus. -[3538.52 --> 3541.80] Now, this is, of course, an identity question. -[3541.80 --> 3554.76] And in our world today, it seems that there is no more important or no more pervasive question or conversation than one's own identity. -[3556.06 --> 3556.20] Right? -[3556.34 --> 3557.68] Identity politics. -[3558.78 --> 3559.84] Sexual identity. -[3560.58 --> 3561.64] Gender identity. -[3562.26 --> 3566.42] Self-identifying in the midst of all of these things, one way or the other. -[3566.66 --> 3568.00] On and on it goes. -[3568.00 --> 3576.72] Because identity and identity language seems to be the kind of gospel tongue of the 21st century Western world. -[3578.60 --> 3583.18] And of course, to some degree, that makes sense. -[3584.18 --> 3584.32] Right? -[3584.48 --> 3593.20] Who you say you are, and who you think you are, and who you allow to say something of who you are, -[3593.20 --> 3601.14] and who you give permission to speak into the identity that you form and have over you or about you, matters. -[3601.42 --> 3603.90] And it comes together to mean something. -[3604.58 --> 3613.88] It determines our way of being in the world, our life in the world, our way of seeing the world, and even being seen in the world. -[3613.88 --> 3621.16] And of course, from a psychological perspective, from a developmental psychology perspective, right? -[3621.26 --> 3624.18] We know that this is standard fare. -[3624.32 --> 3633.02] That trying on different identities, especially in the sort of pre-teen, adolescent years, is perfectly normal. -[3633.38 --> 3633.48] Right? -[3633.48 --> 3639.52] People try all sorts of ways of being in the world until they find the right one. -[3639.62 --> 3646.34] A community of like people who feel right, who make a sense of home for us. -[3647.06 --> 3651.80] And of course, identity and belonging are closely connected. -[3651.80 --> 3665.82] And further, because belonging, or belonging because of a shared identity, is intimately linked to your sense of worth, your self-worth in the world. -[3665.94 --> 3670.88] And so, again, of course, people in the world are trying to figure this out. -[3670.88 --> 3680.34] Trying to find an identity that fits, that feels right, that fills you with purpose and provides a sense of home, a sense of belonging. -[3680.34 --> 3680.66] Right? -[3680.68 --> 3684.02] Because we are all looking for that thing. -[3685.62 --> 3695.74] Now, I suggest to you, the problem that we face in the world today is that we are told that we must look within to find that identity. -[3696.26 --> 3706.08] We are told that we have to become who we truly are meant to be by doing what we love and not doing those things that we don't love or that don't, what's that Marie Kondo thing? -[3706.18 --> 3707.80] Spark joy in you. -[3707.80 --> 3715.64] Ultimately, we're told that we have to look in our own hearts and our own souls for this kind of identity. -[3716.72 --> 3719.14] And of course, again, don't hear what I'm not saying, right? -[3719.18 --> 3721.26] People need to individuate. -[3721.40 --> 3726.24] We need to differentiate from those around us, from our families of origins, our parents. -[3726.54 --> 3730.78] That's an aspect of growing into the person that God has called us to be. -[3730.78 --> 3741.14] But the reality here is that if it's up to me to discern, if it's up to me to determine what that might be for myself, -[3742.20 --> 3744.62] oh man, I just never figured that out. -[3745.60 --> 3746.72] And it's tiring. -[3746.96 --> 3747.88] It's impossible. -[3748.46 --> 3748.58] Right? -[3748.62 --> 3755.62] My heart is fickle and wandering and I'm easily persuaded of one thing and then I'm easily persuaded of the next thing. -[3755.62 --> 3760.72] And then I'm disappointed and I'm hurt and then the cycle begins all over again. -[3762.40 --> 3762.94] Right? -[3763.00 --> 3764.62] There's nothing that seems to last. -[3765.46 --> 3772.90] There's an impermanence that comes with this self-identifying promise spoken in the world today. -[3772.90 --> 3779.62] Instead, what I want for you and what I believe that Jude is writing about and grounding us in, -[3779.68 --> 3785.74] what I believe that God has for us is a gospel identity that lasts. -[3786.28 --> 3792.32] A permanence in who you are because of the absolute permanence of who God is. -[3792.32 --> 3797.46] This is the gospel identity that Jude grounds his letter in. -[3798.28 --> 3805.48] In his discussion of those who are tempting people with something else, tempting them with an untruth. -[3805.90 --> 3813.12] It is this identity that becomes the foundation for how they might persevere in the face of these challenges. -[3813.32 --> 3817.10] And so, because you all have Bibles handy or in front of you, -[3817.50 --> 3819.32] verse 1, look at verse 1. -[3820.36 --> 3820.92] Jude says, -[3820.92 --> 3829.82] To those who have been called, who are loved in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ. -[3832.08 --> 3837.78] Called, loved, or cherished is the word I'm using, and kept. -[3838.16 --> 3840.04] Called, cherished, and kept. -[3840.52 --> 3842.74] That is who you are. -[3843.96 --> 3847.76] You have been called by God. -[3847.76 --> 3851.44] And in the power of the call of God, right? -[3851.50 --> 3855.42] It's not just a voice calling out to you saying, -[3855.76 --> 3856.98] Come here, come to me. -[3857.30 --> 3857.44] Right? -[3857.44 --> 3861.82] It's not just a voice from somewhere off in the distance or somewhere up in heaven saying, -[3862.12 --> 3863.20] Come and find me. -[3863.30 --> 3866.14] And then saying, No, you have to go and find God. -[3866.22 --> 3866.32] Right? -[3866.32 --> 3873.76] The power of the call of God is that God's call itself carries you to Him. -[3874.28 --> 3874.42] Right? -[3874.42 --> 3880.20] God's call carries you into His presence, into relationship with Him. -[3881.80 --> 3883.88] And for those of you who pay attention to this sort of thing, -[3883.98 --> 3889.54] that's why we begin our worship services with a call to worship. -[3890.62 --> 3891.10] Right? -[3891.10 --> 3894.66] Because it's not just God saying, Come into my presence and worship me. -[3895.04 --> 3895.14] Right? -[3895.26 --> 3900.22] It is God saying, Come all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. -[3900.60 --> 3903.44] Come all you who are hungry and thirsty. -[3903.62 --> 3907.00] Come drink deeply of these my living waters. -[3907.18 --> 3909.40] Come and have life that you may live. -[3909.58 --> 3911.96] It's not just God calling us to come. -[3911.96 --> 3917.88] It is God picking us up, our hearts of faith, picking up the souls of our lives and our minds -[3917.88 --> 3925.84] and our bodies and drawing us, carrying us into His presence, carrying us into the throne -[3925.84 --> 3926.64] of His grace. -[3926.90 --> 3928.46] That's God's call. -[3929.98 --> 3930.94] You are called. -[3932.20 --> 3939.32] You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession. -[3939.74 --> 3941.00] That's who you are. -[3941.00 --> 3943.80] That's what it means to be called. -[3945.40 --> 3946.52] You are called. -[3947.40 --> 3948.58] And you are cherished. -[3949.54 --> 3953.00] You are cherished by God the Father. -[3953.98 --> 3957.72] You are lavishly loved children of the Creator of the world. -[3958.00 --> 3961.08] The One who spoke the world into being. -[3961.42 --> 3965.88] The One without whom nothing that is would ever be or could ever be. -[3965.88 --> 3970.72] That same God looks at you into your eyes and says, -[3971.00 --> 3972.92] I love you. -[3973.80 --> 3975.40] I cherish you. -[3975.40 --> 3982.72] Some of you know that I'm teaching pastor's class right now. -[3983.60 --> 3990.02] Pastor's class is one of those things that we do and we offer for young people or new -[3990.02 --> 3996.32] converts to the faith, people who are returning to the faith after years of absence of way and -[3996.32 --> 4000.64] who want to come and profess their faith for the first time or for a renewed time. -[4000.64 --> 4004.38] To stand up in front of us as the body of believers and to say, -[4004.38 --> 4011.62] I too believe the Lord Jesus as my Savior and I commit myself with you to live for Him. -[4011.62 --> 4017.44] And as part of preparing for that, I teach a class and we look at some theology. -[4017.60 --> 4021.32] What does it mean to believe that and what does it mean to be reformed and the like? -[4022.10 --> 4029.84] Now I start that class with a conversation about doctrine of God, around the doctrine of God. -[4029.84 --> 4035.06] And so we're looking at the person, the character, the nature and being of who God is. -[4035.56 --> 4041.10] And part of that, I teach on what's called the immutability of God. -[4041.60 --> 4043.48] Now, I know that's a fancy word. -[4044.30 --> 4045.36] So I'm going to break it down. -[4045.46 --> 4046.66] And this is how we do it in the class. -[4046.66 --> 4050.76] So I will ask if you know who the X-Men are. -[4052.04 --> 4055.22] If you know who the X-Men are, you know what a mutant is. -[4055.32 --> 4059.34] Now, this last week when I taught this class, nobody in the class knew who the X-Men are. -[4059.44 --> 4060.54] And that's a shame on you parents. -[4062.68 --> 4068.24] But one of them did say, I know who the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are. -[4068.78 --> 4069.98] And so you parents are redeemed. -[4069.98 --> 4077.60] To mutate or to be a mutant, right, is to change from one thing to the other. -[4078.46 --> 4081.76] And so immutable, right, is the opposite. -[4082.90 --> 4086.06] It is, instead of changing, it is unchanging. -[4086.62 --> 4091.78] And so when we say God is immutable, what we mean is that God is unchanging. -[4091.94 --> 4093.36] He doesn't mutate. -[4093.36 --> 4105.12] And so when God says, I love you, when God says, I cherish you, that never changes because God never changes. -[4105.94 --> 4112.70] Because God is immutable, your cherished identity in Him is never ending. -[4112.70 --> 4130.04] And as a father of a nine-year-old girl, I want you to hear that. -[4132.56 --> 4133.92] I want her to hear that. -[4133.92 --> 4143.54] I want us all to hear that, that you are cherished of God your Father with a never ending love. -[4147.98 --> 4149.00] And you are kept. -[4150.50 --> 4154.34] You are called, you are cherished, and you are kept. -[4155.66 --> 4160.00] And to be kept means to never be left alone. -[4160.00 --> 4166.82] I don't know if we're still allowed to talk like this, and so forgive me if I cross some sort of woke line. -[4166.94 --> 4171.02] But it used to be that you could be a kept man or a kept woman, right? -[4171.06 --> 4174.24] And what that meant is you were in a relationship and no one else could have you. -[4175.24 --> 4175.36] Right? -[4175.40 --> 4180.34] It means to be kept means to belong to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. -[4180.44 --> 4186.14] To be kept means to be part of the bride of Christ who is the church which is kept for Him, reserved for Him, -[4186.14 --> 4189.74] and marked out for glory as His inheritance. -[4189.98 --> 4195.86] To be kept is to be the prize for which He died, for which Jesus died. -[4196.10 --> 4201.06] To be kept is Jesus saying, I will never leave you nor forsake you. -[4201.14 --> 4206.84] To be kept is Jesus saying, surely I am with you always to the very end of the age. -[4207.08 --> 4213.54] To be kept is the promise that He who began a good work in you will see it through unto completion. -[4213.54 --> 4218.78] This is what it means to be called and cherish and kept. -[4219.32 --> 4223.46] And by grace through faith, this identity cannot change. -[4223.92 --> 4229.20] It lasts forever precisely because Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. -[4229.54 --> 4231.90] You who are in Him cannot be lost. -[4231.90 --> 4241.72] This is the foundation of identity that enables you then to persevere, to stand under trial, to last. -[4241.82 --> 4241.92] Right? -[4241.98 --> 4244.98] In the face of those who are calling you to disobedience. -[4245.16 --> 4250.36] In the face of those who are pressuring you to do something that you are not interested in doing, -[4250.44 --> 4252.10] that is not who you want to be. -[4252.18 --> 4255.68] In the face of those who are asking you to be someone who you are not. -[4255.68 --> 4264.04] This identity stands firm because it is an identity granted by God the Father through Jesus the Son made yours -[4264.04 --> 4267.52] as you are made His by the Holy Spirit. -[4268.52 --> 4276.42] And it is precisely because of this identity, precisely because of what Jesus has done for us in the gospel, -[4276.42 --> 4281.72] that Jude says that those who don't understand will slander you. -[4283.22 --> 4286.22] That the things that don't understand, they will seek to destroy. -[4287.04 --> 4289.74] Now this is where we spent most of our time last week, -[4289.78 --> 4291.32] and so I'm not going to spend a whole lot of time there. -[4291.40 --> 4294.14] You can find that online, go to our church website. -[4294.32 --> 4300.96] But Jude here is identifying that in the face of this identity and the call to persevere, -[4301.30 --> 4303.34] there are those who seek to divide. -[4303.34 --> 4305.78] We can see it again in our text, verse 19. -[4306.58 --> 4309.28] These are the people who divide you, -[4309.78 --> 4313.10] who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit. -[4313.40 --> 4318.42] These are the people who seek to divide and to destroy and to divert your attentions away. -[4319.30 --> 4321.78] Division comes from those who say, -[4322.10 --> 4324.62] oh, it's no big deal, nobody's getting hurt, -[4324.98 --> 4327.78] it doesn't matter if I do this little thing or not. -[4328.84 --> 4330.62] Destroying comes from those who say, -[4330.62 --> 4332.40] I don't have to follow this rule. -[4332.40 --> 4334.60] That law doesn't apply to me anymore. -[4334.84 --> 4338.48] I'm glad that works for you, but it's not for me. -[4339.28 --> 4340.52] I don't know how many times you hear that. -[4342.38 --> 4345.20] And diverting your attention comes from those who say, -[4345.36 --> 4347.72] I don't need this religion thing, I don't need this faith thing, -[4347.96 --> 4350.16] this gospel thing in order to be good in the world. -[4350.64 --> 4352.06] You don't have to bother with that. -[4352.34 --> 4353.32] Don't worry about that. -[4353.40 --> 4356.10] Instead, look over here, come over here. -[4356.10 --> 4361.32] The world is full of people who seek to divide or destroy or divert. -[4363.06 --> 4369.50] And even some of our churches are full of people who seek to divide, destroy, and divert. -[4370.22 --> 4373.12] People who don't understand and so slander. -[4373.26 --> 4375.14] People who grumble and find fault. -[4375.26 --> 4379.18] People who boast about themselves and flatter others for their own advantage. -[4379.18 --> 4382.66] But that is not who Jude says you are. -[4384.46 --> 4388.96] And so this identity of God is both granted and sure and fixed, -[4389.12 --> 4393.76] and it is aspirational as we try to live in it and out of it towards it. -[4394.50 --> 4397.40] Jude, and through this, right, as God's word, -[4397.74 --> 4400.38] as Jesus owns voice for us today, -[4400.38 --> 4405.58] God himself then wants something more from us and for us. -[4406.78 --> 4414.40] You see, there is a straight line from this gospel identity of being called and cherished and kept. -[4414.66 --> 4418.44] A straight line that runs through towards perseverance, -[4418.72 --> 4421.60] that runs through trial and to the end of history, -[4421.76 --> 4423.72] to the consummation of all that is, -[4423.80 --> 4425.90] to the glory of God made manifest in our midst. -[4425.90 --> 4432.14] And it's a straight line that runs through remembering, remaining, and rescuing. -[4435.56 --> 4437.86] But you, dear friends, -[4439.04 --> 4444.50] remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. -[4446.48 --> 4450.54] Remember what the apostles said. -[4451.02 --> 4453.10] And then that connects to verse 20. -[4453.10 --> 4463.10] Remember what the apostles said. -[4463.96 --> 4465.74] Remember the teachings of the apostles. -[4466.10 --> 4467.52] Remember the words of Jesus. -[4467.74 --> 4469.26] Remember the word of God. -[4469.44 --> 4470.10] Remember the scriptures. -[4471.04 --> 4475.62] Remembering the scriptures is how you build yourselves up in the most holy faith. -[4475.98 --> 4477.10] Remember biblical teaching. -[4477.10 --> 4481.22] When people want to divide or destroy or divert, -[4481.54 --> 4486.62] it's so easy to forget our identity as called and cherished and kept by God. -[4486.94 --> 4489.48] And so we need to remember. -[4490.76 --> 4494.42] And remember who you are by reading the word of God. -[4494.84 --> 4496.96] And here's the thing. -[4496.96 --> 4501.80] When we talk about remembering the word of God, -[4501.86 --> 4504.84] when we talk about remembering biblical teaching, -[4505.16 --> 4510.12] I want to be really clear because I don't just mean remember in the sense of like call to mind. -[4510.82 --> 4511.02] Right? -[4511.02 --> 4514.96] I don't just mean remember in the sense of like take that thing that you had sort of forgotten -[4514.96 --> 4517.66] that was in the back of your brain and bring it to the front. -[4518.66 --> 4518.76] Right? -[4518.76 --> 4525.48] Remember in a biblical sense has an almost like sacramental character to it, -[4525.66 --> 4530.14] a liturgical character to it, a worshipful character to it. -[4530.92 --> 4531.04] Right? -[4531.08 --> 4534.62] In fact, remembering has a sort of power to it. -[4535.08 --> 4538.10] That's why Jesus himself, when he instituted the Lord's Supper, -[4538.52 --> 4539.02] right, he said, -[4539.22 --> 4540.74] eat this bread and drink this cup. -[4541.16 --> 4544.84] Do this in remembrance of me. -[4544.84 --> 4547.86] For whenever we eat this bread and drink this cup, -[4547.90 --> 4549.34] we can read in 1 Corinthians, -[4549.66 --> 4552.82] you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes again. -[4553.96 --> 4557.50] Remembering and remembrance has a sort of power to it, -[4557.54 --> 4558.80] a power to transform, -[4559.00 --> 4560.32] a power to proclaim, -[4560.46 --> 4562.58] a power to remind you of who you are -[4562.58 --> 4566.62] and to make you more of who God has called you to be -[4566.62 --> 4570.16] as his cherished and kept child. -[4570.16 --> 4575.02] And let me be clear, -[4575.16 --> 4576.82] because it's important for me not to assume -[4576.82 --> 4578.76] what may be an obvious connection -[4578.76 --> 4580.98] or perhaps what should be an obvious connection, -[4581.14 --> 4585.18] but you can't remember what you don't know. -[4586.40 --> 4590.44] Or you can't remember what you don't read. -[4591.32 --> 4593.98] You can't remember what you don't hear. -[4594.58 --> 4597.28] If you need to remember the voice of Jesus, -[4597.28 --> 4599.54] if you need to remember the word of God, -[4599.60 --> 4601.24] you need to read the word of God. -[4601.58 --> 4603.14] You need to hear the voice of Jesus -[4603.14 --> 4605.18] proclaimed boldly and powerfully. -[4605.48 --> 4608.72] You need to immerse yourself in the words of Jesus. -[4608.88 --> 4610.88] You need to surround yourself with the community -[4610.88 --> 4612.84] that speaks the truth of God -[4612.84 --> 4615.38] into the everyday struggles of your lives. -[4615.68 --> 4617.46] You need the voice of the good shepherd -[4617.46 --> 4619.46] spoken to you so often -[4619.46 --> 4621.76] that it actually becomes your own voice, -[4621.98 --> 4623.88] your own way of speaking in the world, -[4623.96 --> 4626.12] that his voice courses through you, -[4626.12 --> 4627.70] that your words are his words, -[4627.76 --> 4629.36] so that when you speak to me, -[4630.06 --> 4631.30] it's Jesus through you. -[4632.24 --> 4633.68] And when I speak to you, -[4633.80 --> 4635.32] it's Jesus through me, -[4635.38 --> 4637.64] that his words naturally flow in you -[4637.64 --> 4640.00] and out of you to the world around you. -[4640.72 --> 4642.66] Because every single one of you -[4642.66 --> 4644.04] will tell me -[4644.04 --> 4646.02] that you need to read the Bible more. -[4646.02 --> 4650.34] But almost every single one of you -[4650.34 --> 4651.04] will tell me -[4651.04 --> 4652.48] that it's also hard to feel -[4652.48 --> 4655.08] the power of God's declaring identity -[4655.08 --> 4656.20] in your life. -[4656.36 --> 4657.52] It's hard for that identity -[4657.52 --> 4660.02] to infiltrate every aspect of your lives. -[4660.34 --> 4660.40] And -[4660.40 --> 4663.34] you forget who you are -[4663.34 --> 4665.48] because you aren't reading -[4665.48 --> 4667.70] or hearing who God says you are. -[4668.98 --> 4669.58] Remember -[4669.58 --> 4671.84] biblical teaching. -[4671.84 --> 4674.26] And then two, -[4674.46 --> 4674.88] remain -[4674.88 --> 4676.50] in God's love. -[4677.28 --> 4678.76] In verse 20 and 21, -[4680.40 --> 4681.24] But you, dear friends, -[4681.34 --> 4682.44] by building yourselves up -[4682.44 --> 4683.64] in your most holy faith, -[4683.82 --> 4685.30] remembering the apostles' teaching, -[4685.64 --> 4687.46] and by praying in the Holy Spirit, -[4688.04 --> 4689.02] keep yourselves, -[4689.20 --> 4690.62] or another way to translate that is, -[4690.78 --> 4691.30] remain -[4691.30 --> 4692.00] in -[4692.00 --> 4692.82] God's -[4692.82 --> 4693.50] love -[4693.50 --> 4695.36] as you wait for the mercy -[4695.36 --> 4696.50] of our Lord Jesus Christ -[4696.50 --> 4697.34] to bring you -[4697.34 --> 4697.86] to -[4697.86 --> 4698.94] eternal -[4698.94 --> 4699.96] life. -[4699.96 --> 4701.10] What does it mean -[4701.10 --> 4702.08] to remain -[4702.08 --> 4702.96] in -[4702.96 --> 4703.96] God's -[4703.96 --> 4704.68] love? -[4705.52 --> 4706.06] Now, -[4706.08 --> 4706.66] on the one hand, -[4707.58 --> 4708.14] we know -[4708.14 --> 4709.58] from other passages -[4709.58 --> 4710.20] in the Bible, -[4710.32 --> 4711.16] like 1 John 4 -[4711.16 --> 4712.36] is a good example of this, -[4712.42 --> 4712.58] right? -[4712.96 --> 4714.56] If anyone acknowledges -[4714.56 --> 4716.18] that Jesus is the Son of God, -[4716.30 --> 4717.44] God lives in them -[4717.44 --> 4718.58] and they in God, -[4718.68 --> 4719.72] and so we know -[4719.72 --> 4720.50] and rely -[4720.50 --> 4721.24] on the love -[4721.24 --> 4722.46] God has for us. -[4722.90 --> 4724.00] God is love. -[4724.06 --> 4724.66] Whoever lives -[4724.66 --> 4725.74] in love -[4725.74 --> 4726.68] lives in God, -[4726.68 --> 4727.26] and God -[4727.26 --> 4728.46] in them. -[4728.62 --> 4729.16] We know -[4729.16 --> 4730.16] that we remain -[4730.16 --> 4731.52] in God's love -[4731.52 --> 4732.48] because God, -[4732.66 --> 4733.18] by grace, -[4733.40 --> 4734.24] keeps us there. -[4735.28 --> 4735.72] Right? -[4735.80 --> 4736.64] We know -[4736.64 --> 4738.18] that He is love -[4738.18 --> 4739.10] and that we are -[4739.10 --> 4739.78] in Him -[4739.78 --> 4740.54] because of who -[4740.54 --> 4741.40] He is. -[4741.48 --> 4742.04] And with Paul -[4742.04 --> 4743.08] in Romans 8, -[4743.84 --> 4744.38] we know -[4744.38 --> 4744.90] that, -[4745.06 --> 4745.82] for I am convinced -[4745.82 --> 4746.52] that neither death -[4746.52 --> 4747.04] nor life, -[4747.14 --> 4747.60] neither angels -[4747.60 --> 4748.04] nor demons, -[4748.18 --> 4748.82] neither the present -[4748.82 --> 4749.44] nor the future, -[4749.56 --> 4750.46] nor any powers, -[4750.90 --> 4751.50] nor height, -[4751.60 --> 4752.22] nor depth, -[4752.32 --> 4753.50] nor anything else -[4753.50 --> 4754.58] in all of creation -[4754.58 --> 4755.68] will be able -[4755.68 --> 4757.06] to separate us -[4757.06 --> 4758.74] from the love -[4758.74 --> 4759.58] of God -[4759.58 --> 4760.64] that is in Christ -[4760.64 --> 4762.02] Jesus our Lord. -[4763.00 --> 4764.14] And so we know -[4764.14 --> 4765.34] that we remain -[4765.34 --> 4766.26] in God -[4766.26 --> 4767.44] because God -[4767.44 --> 4769.34] doesn't let go. -[4771.84 --> 4772.82] And yet, -[4772.82 --> 4778.06] you also -[4778.06 --> 4779.98] have a responsibility. -[4781.52 --> 4782.22] And let me be clear, -[4782.52 --> 4782.62] right? -[4782.98 --> 4783.74] Responsibility here -[4783.74 --> 4784.86] is the right word -[4784.86 --> 4786.64] insofar as it means -[4786.64 --> 4788.16] ability to respond. -[4789.20 --> 4789.68] Right? -[4789.74 --> 4790.78] You don't respond -[4790.78 --> 4791.86] to God's love -[4791.86 --> 4792.70] in order to keep -[4792.70 --> 4793.50] yourself in it -[4793.50 --> 4794.20] because He promises -[4794.20 --> 4794.94] to keep you. -[4795.28 --> 4795.42] Right? -[4795.56 --> 4796.40] You are kept -[4796.40 --> 4797.42] in God's love -[4797.42 --> 4799.00] and so you respond -[4799.00 --> 4800.24] in love. -[4800.24 --> 4801.80] You respond -[4801.80 --> 4802.80] to who God is -[4802.80 --> 4803.80] by building yourself -[4803.80 --> 4804.84] up in the most -[4804.84 --> 4805.46] holy faith, -[4805.54 --> 4806.40] by praying -[4806.40 --> 4807.52] in the Holy Spirit -[4807.52 --> 4808.74] and by waiting -[4808.74 --> 4809.92] for the return -[4809.92 --> 4810.48] of Jesus -[4810.48 --> 4811.64] with a barely -[4811.64 --> 4812.98] bridled anticipation. -[4814.12 --> 4814.22] Right? -[4814.26 --> 4814.98] That's what it means -[4814.98 --> 4815.62] to remain -[4815.62 --> 4817.08] in God's love, -[4817.20 --> 4818.14] to respond -[4818.14 --> 4819.78] to His first loving you -[4819.78 --> 4820.90] by learning more -[4820.90 --> 4821.50] about Him, -[4821.72 --> 4822.78] by studying the Scriptures, -[4822.78 --> 4823.94] to respond -[4823.94 --> 4825.72] to His first calling you -[4825.72 --> 4827.34] by calling on Him -[4827.34 --> 4827.96] in prayer, -[4827.96 --> 4829.10] to respond -[4829.10 --> 4830.32] to His first coming -[4830.32 --> 4831.40] by waiting -[4831.40 --> 4832.70] in anticipation -[4832.70 --> 4834.52] for His second coming. -[4835.56 --> 4835.68] Right? -[4835.72 --> 4837.28] Remain in God's love -[4837.28 --> 4838.28] by reading the Scriptures, -[4838.46 --> 4839.60] by rejoicing in prayer -[4839.60 --> 4840.56] and by waiting -[4840.56 --> 4842.18] for His return. -[4843.12 --> 4844.18] And according to Jude, -[4845.02 --> 4847.90] this is the basic formula -[4847.90 --> 4848.74] for developing -[4848.74 --> 4850.10] healthy disciples -[4850.10 --> 4851.56] grounded in the identity -[4851.56 --> 4852.90] of being called -[4852.90 --> 4853.62] and cherished -[4853.62 --> 4854.28] and kept. -[4854.28 --> 4857.94] this is what it takes -[4857.94 --> 4860.72] to endure opposition -[4860.72 --> 4862.06] or failure -[4862.06 --> 4863.52] or another season -[4863.52 --> 4864.10] of loss. -[4867.60 --> 4868.72] And so, -[4869.14 --> 4870.30] we are filled -[4870.30 --> 4870.98] with a purpose. -[4872.32 --> 4872.94] And finally, -[4874.14 --> 4874.64] rescue. -[4876.88 --> 4878.30] Rescue those -[4878.30 --> 4879.02] who doubt, -[4879.66 --> 4880.68] who struggle, -[4881.28 --> 4882.50] who are falling away -[4882.50 --> 4883.56] and who need to be -[4883.56 --> 4884.58] lifted up. -[4884.82 --> 4885.36] Verse 22, -[4885.56 --> 4886.96] Be merciful to those -[4886.96 --> 4887.44] who doubt. -[4888.16 --> 4888.78] Save others -[4888.78 --> 4889.70] by snatching them -[4889.70 --> 4890.38] from the fire. -[4890.76 --> 4891.20] To others, -[4891.34 --> 4892.82] show mercy mixed with fear, -[4892.94 --> 4894.34] hating even the clothing -[4894.34 --> 4897.28] stained by corrupted flesh. -[4899.62 --> 4900.50] Truth is, -[4901.86 --> 4904.18] we all struggle. -[4904.98 --> 4905.74] Every one of us. -[4906.16 --> 4907.10] We all fail. -[4907.52 --> 4908.48] We all fall short -[4908.48 --> 4909.84] of the glory of God. -[4909.84 --> 4911.22] We all forget -[4911.22 --> 4912.64] who we are -[4912.64 --> 4914.08] in Christ Jesus. -[4914.30 --> 4915.92] And we all need help. -[4916.56 --> 4917.66] Each one of us -[4917.66 --> 4918.42] will doubt. -[4918.76 --> 4919.80] You may be doubting -[4919.80 --> 4920.46] right now, -[4920.52 --> 4921.48] even as you sit here. -[4922.40 --> 4923.44] Every one of us -[4923.44 --> 4924.26] will slide -[4924.26 --> 4925.28] or will disobey -[4925.28 --> 4926.58] or will wander away. -[4926.86 --> 4928.48] We all need mercy. -[4928.88 --> 4930.02] Christians aren't -[4930.02 --> 4930.56] the people -[4930.56 --> 4931.68] who have it all together. -[4931.92 --> 4932.66] Far from it. -[4932.82 --> 4933.44] We just might be -[4933.44 --> 4934.04] the first people -[4934.04 --> 4934.56] to realize -[4934.56 --> 4935.12] how broken -[4935.12 --> 4936.02] we really are. -[4937.54 --> 4938.16] And yes, -[4938.16 --> 4940.66] some of us -[4940.66 --> 4941.36] pretend -[4941.36 --> 4943.04] better than others. -[4944.60 --> 4945.52] And yes, -[4946.14 --> 4947.32] all of us -[4947.32 --> 4948.38] are hypocrites. -[4950.46 --> 4951.68] Maybe you left church -[4951.68 --> 4952.40] years ago -[4952.40 --> 4953.80] because you looked around -[4953.80 --> 4955.66] and all you saw -[4955.66 --> 4956.66] were hypocrites. -[4958.44 --> 4959.40] And you were right. -[4963.76 --> 4964.84] And I'm sorry -[4964.84 --> 4966.72] for how you may have been -[4966.72 --> 4967.48] hurt in the past. -[4968.68 --> 4969.46] And I'm sorry -[4969.46 --> 4970.14] for how you may -[4970.14 --> 4971.06] still be hurting -[4971.06 --> 4972.02] now. -[4978.14 --> 4979.20] But don't, -[4979.20 --> 4982.26] don't be tricked. -[4982.60 --> 4983.20] Don't be fooled. -[4983.92 --> 4984.28] Don't, -[4984.28 --> 4985.04] don't settle -[4985.04 --> 4986.14] for letting -[4986.14 --> 4987.62] a bad example -[4987.62 --> 4988.96] of Jesus -[4988.96 --> 4990.80] replace -[4990.80 --> 4992.92] the truth -[4992.92 --> 4994.28] of Jesus -[4994.28 --> 4995.62] in your heart -[4995.62 --> 4996.78] and in your mind. -[4998.10 --> 4998.60] Like, -[4998.68 --> 4999.40] I'm a hypocrite. -[4999.72 --> 5000.54] I know that. -[5001.20 --> 5002.40] But I also know -[5002.40 --> 5003.12] that Jesus -[5003.12 --> 5003.82] is perfect. -[5004.40 --> 5005.12] That he lived -[5005.12 --> 5005.50] the life -[5005.50 --> 5006.22] I should have lived. -[5006.30 --> 5007.04] That he died -[5007.04 --> 5007.46] the death -[5007.46 --> 5008.20] that I deserved. -[5008.30 --> 5008.92] And so now, -[5009.12 --> 5009.54] somehow, -[5010.04 --> 5010.76] my sin -[5010.76 --> 5011.94] is laid on him -[5011.94 --> 5013.04] and his righteousness -[5013.04 --> 5014.46] is passed over to me. -[5014.62 --> 5015.60] I am a hypocrite -[5015.60 --> 5016.36] and yet, -[5016.54 --> 5017.64] I am declared -[5017.64 --> 5018.44] righteous. -[5018.88 --> 5019.94] That's the gospel. -[5019.94 --> 5022.00] And while we all -[5022.00 --> 5023.26] still may fall -[5023.26 --> 5023.94] to hypocrisy, -[5024.64 --> 5025.44] we are no longer -[5025.44 --> 5026.30] defined -[5026.30 --> 5027.18] by that -[5027.18 --> 5027.94] failure. -[5030.80 --> 5031.96] And yes, -[5032.40 --> 5034.04] I will need you -[5034.04 --> 5034.90] to rescue -[5034.90 --> 5036.00] me. -[5037.32 --> 5038.10] And maybe -[5038.10 --> 5039.34] this week -[5039.34 --> 5039.92] that rescue -[5039.92 --> 5041.02] looks like rebuke. -[5042.16 --> 5042.92] Maybe -[5042.92 --> 5044.08] that rescue -[5044.08 --> 5044.82] looks like -[5044.82 --> 5045.34] restoration. -[5046.02 --> 5047.02] Maybe that rescue -[5047.02 --> 5047.70] looks like -[5047.70 --> 5048.36] reconciliation. -[5048.94 --> 5049.52] But whatever -[5049.52 --> 5050.74] form it takes, -[5051.18 --> 5052.04] I need -[5052.04 --> 5053.10] you to -[5053.10 --> 5054.12] rescue me -[5054.12 --> 5054.84] at times -[5054.84 --> 5055.42] in my life -[5055.42 --> 5055.84] and faith. -[5055.92 --> 5056.86] Just like you -[5056.86 --> 5057.74] will need -[5057.74 --> 5058.42] each other. -[5058.96 --> 5059.88] And I rely -[5059.88 --> 5060.56] on you -[5060.56 --> 5061.38] as the hands -[5061.38 --> 5061.92] and the feet -[5061.92 --> 5062.44] of Jesus -[5062.44 --> 5063.36] to show me -[5063.36 --> 5063.58] that, -[5063.84 --> 5064.58] to provide -[5064.58 --> 5065.32] that rescue -[5065.32 --> 5065.60] for me -[5065.60 --> 5066.42] and to lead -[5066.42 --> 5067.42] me back -[5067.42 --> 5068.10] to him. -[5071.70 --> 5072.38] I know -[5072.38 --> 5072.84] that you have -[5072.84 --> 5073.30] doubts. -[5074.80 --> 5075.44] But know -[5075.44 --> 5075.88] that you are -[5075.88 --> 5076.68] in good company. -[5078.06 --> 5078.48] That this is -[5078.48 --> 5078.92] your home. -[5079.52 --> 5080.28] I know -[5080.28 --> 5080.58] that you have -[5080.58 --> 5081.26] questions. -[5081.84 --> 5082.32] And while we -[5082.32 --> 5083.04] may not have -[5083.04 --> 5083.84] all the answers -[5083.84 --> 5084.46] here, -[5084.56 --> 5085.36] let's dwell -[5085.36 --> 5086.64] in the mystery -[5086.64 --> 5087.68] together. -[5088.58 --> 5089.46] Instead of -[5089.46 --> 5090.62] deconstructing -[5090.62 --> 5091.30] out of a bad -[5091.30 --> 5092.26] example of faith, -[5092.34 --> 5093.38] let's reconstruct -[5093.38 --> 5094.82] a gospel faith -[5094.82 --> 5095.44] together. -[5096.04 --> 5096.66] And while we -[5096.66 --> 5097.16] are far -[5097.16 --> 5098.24] from perfect, -[5098.50 --> 5099.42] we are striving -[5099.42 --> 5100.78] with unveiled -[5100.78 --> 5101.80] faces to be -[5101.80 --> 5102.64] transformed from -[5102.64 --> 5103.26] one degree -[5103.26 --> 5103.90] of glory -[5103.90 --> 5104.86] to another. -[5105.86 --> 5106.72] You are -[5106.72 --> 5107.36] called. -[5107.36 --> 5108.24] You are -[5108.24 --> 5108.98] cherished. -[5109.34 --> 5109.74] You are -[5109.74 --> 5110.44] kept. -[5110.74 --> 5111.04] And in a -[5111.04 --> 5111.60] world that -[5111.60 --> 5112.08] seeks to -[5112.08 --> 5112.96] divide and -[5112.96 --> 5113.72] destroy and -[5113.72 --> 5114.46] divert our -[5114.46 --> 5115.60] affections for -[5115.60 --> 5115.98] Jesus, -[5116.42 --> 5117.62] go today -[5117.62 --> 5118.56] remembering -[5118.56 --> 5120.14] God's truth. -[5120.32 --> 5121.06] Go today -[5121.06 --> 5122.34] remaining in -[5122.34 --> 5123.24] his love by -[5123.24 --> 5124.30] building up -[5124.30 --> 5124.80] your faith, -[5124.90 --> 5125.72] by praying in -[5125.72 --> 5126.28] the Holy Spirit -[5126.28 --> 5127.42] and by waiting -[5127.42 --> 5128.18] for his -[5128.18 --> 5128.84] return. -[5129.20 --> 5130.06] Go today -[5130.06 --> 5130.98] to rescue -[5130.98 --> 5132.00] those who -[5132.00 --> 5132.66] have forgotten -[5132.66 --> 5133.62] or who are -[5133.62 --> 5134.02] forgetting. -[5134.02 --> 5135.86] Go and live -[5135.86 --> 5137.54] this identity -[5137.54 --> 5138.64] that lasts -[5138.64 --> 5139.56] forever. -[5142.10 --> 5143.74] Daughter of -[5143.74 --> 5144.18] God, -[5144.98 --> 5147.04] you are -[5147.04 --> 5148.68] cherished. -[5150.08 --> 5151.42] Son of -[5151.42 --> 5151.96] God, -[5152.80 --> 5154.84] you are -[5154.84 --> 5156.64] kept -[5156.64 --> 5158.98] forever -[5158.98 --> 5161.02] in him. -[5161.02 --> 5163.00] and so -[5163.00 --> 5163.30] go. -[5164.72 --> 5165.40] Live a -[5165.40 --> 5165.80] life -[5165.80 --> 5167.06] worthy -[5167.06 --> 5168.90] of your -[5168.90 --> 5169.94] calling. -[5171.72 --> 5172.42] Let me -[5172.42 --> 5172.76] pray for -[5172.76 --> 5172.92] you. -[5178.50 --> 5179.72] Holy Spirit, -[5179.98 --> 5181.54] fill us -[5181.54 --> 5183.12] to overflow -[5183.12 --> 5184.26] in with -[5184.26 --> 5185.64] your love. -[5185.84 --> 5186.26] Transform -[5186.26 --> 5187.74] our hearts -[5187.74 --> 5188.56] and minds -[5188.56 --> 5189.30] today that -[5189.30 --> 5189.82] we might -[5189.82 --> 5190.42] see the -[5190.42 --> 5191.76] truth of -[5191.76 --> 5192.38] who we -[5192.38 --> 5193.22] are in -[5193.22 --> 5193.72] you. -[5193.84 --> 5194.38] The truth -[5194.38 --> 5195.02] of your -[5195.02 --> 5195.70] love for -[5195.70 --> 5196.22] us that -[5196.22 --> 5197.12] names us -[5197.12 --> 5198.20] son and -[5198.20 --> 5198.48] daughter. -[5198.60 --> 5199.02] The truth -[5199.02 --> 5199.58] of the -[5199.58 --> 5200.24] spirit of -[5200.24 --> 5200.98] adoption by -[5200.98 --> 5201.44] which we -[5201.44 --> 5201.74] cry, -[5201.96 --> 5202.36] Abba, -[5202.72 --> 5203.20] Father, -[5203.32 --> 5204.10] the truth -[5204.10 --> 5204.84] that you -[5204.84 --> 5205.48] have called -[5205.48 --> 5205.78] us, -[5205.86 --> 5206.08] that you -[5206.08 --> 5206.58] cherish -[5206.58 --> 5207.00] us, -[5208.00 --> 5208.78] and that -[5208.78 --> 5209.16] you keep -[5209.16 --> 5209.54] us. -[5212.10 --> 5213.08] And so -[5213.08 --> 5214.02] may we -[5214.02 --> 5215.54] go remembering -[5215.54 --> 5216.52] this truth, -[5217.04 --> 5217.90] remaining in -[5217.90 --> 5218.58] your love -[5218.58 --> 5220.08] to rescue -[5220.08 --> 5221.36] one another -[5221.36 --> 5222.70] and to -[5222.70 --> 5223.16] rescue -[5223.16 --> 5223.84] the world -[5223.84 --> 5224.70] that you -[5224.70 --> 5225.42] have sent -[5225.42 --> 5226.42] us out -[5226.42 --> 5228.02] into now. -[5229.02 --> 5230.62] We go on -[5230.62 --> 5231.32] the firm -[5231.32 --> 5232.64] foundation of -[5232.64 --> 5234.28] Jesus Christ, -[5234.66 --> 5235.68] the cornerstone -[5235.68 --> 5236.80] of our life -[5236.80 --> 5237.86] and faith. -[5239.14 --> 5240.30] Go with -[5240.30 --> 5241.32] boldness. -[5242.10 --> 5242.64] In Jesus -[5242.64 --> 5243.42] Christ, we -[5243.42 --> 5243.72] pray. -[5244.76 --> 5245.12] Amen. -[5245.12 --> 5245.22] Amen. -[5247.90 --> 5276.14] My home is built -[5276.14 --> 5284.72] Are nothing less than Jesus' love in righteousness. -[5286.78 --> 5292.72] I dare not trust the sweetest praise. -[5294.30 --> 5299.72] God only trusts in Jesus' name. -[5299.72 --> 5315.92] I know it's built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness. -[5318.06 --> 5324.20] I dare not trust the sweetest praise. -[5324.20 --> 5332.18] God only trusts in Jesus' name. -[5333.74 --> 5340.52] Christ alone, cornerstone. -[5340.98 --> 5347.66] Weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[5347.66 --> 5358.30] Through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[5358.30 --> 5359.74] Weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[5359.74 --> 5360.84] Weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[5360.84 --> 5362.06] Weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[5362.06 --> 5363.46] Weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[5363.46 --> 5369.86] When darkness seems to light it's red. -[5369.86 --> 5376.24] The high as the dark is the changing grace. -[5376.24 --> 5383.76] In every eye and story there -[5383.76 --> 5390.26] My anchor rose within the grave -[5390.26 --> 5398.58] My anchor rose within the grave -[5398.58 --> 5406.84] Christ alone, cornerstone -[5406.84 --> 5413.76] Weak may strong, stead of love -[5413.76 --> 5420.68] Through the storm, He is Lord -[5420.68 --> 5424.98] Lord of all -[5424.98 --> 5436.20] When He shall come with trumpet sound -[5436.20 --> 5443.26] O may I then in Him be found -[5443.26 --> 5450.16] Dressed in His righteousness alone -[5450.16 --> 5458.38] Faultless stand before the Lord -[5458.38 --> 5470.38] I shut low, cornerstone -[5470.38 --> 5478.60] Weak may strong, stead of love -[5478.60 --> 5485.60] Through the storm, He is Lord -[5485.60 --> 5489.60] Lord of all -[5489.60 --> 5498.82] Christ alone, cornerstone -[5498.82 --> 5506.82] Weak may strong, in the Savior's love -[5506.82 --> 5513.82] Through the storm, He is Lord -[5513.82 --> 5519.04] Lord of all -[5519.04 --> 5545.12] As you go this week to live a life worthy of your calling, know that God Himself goes with you. -[5545.12 --> 5554.30] And so receive His blessing, both as a promise and as an assurance that He is by your side. -[5555.34 --> 5558.20] God go before you to guide you. -[5558.76 --> 5560.96] God go behind you to guard you. -[5561.54 --> 5563.40] God go beneath you to support you. -[5563.70 --> 5566.10] God go beside you to befriend you. -[5566.10 --> 5566.40] God go beneath you to guard you. -[5566.40 --> 5568.36] God do not be afraid. -[5569.64 --> 5574.52] Remember, you are called, cherish, and kept. -[5575.76 --> 5580.80] And so go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5581.80 --> 5582.48] Amen. -[5582.48 --> 5582.54] Amen. -[5582.54 --> 5582.58] Amen. -[5582.58 --> 5584.54] Amen. -[5584.54 --> 5586.54] Amen. -[5586.54 --> 5588.54] Amen. -[5588.54 --> 5590.54] Amen. -[5590.54 --> 5592.54] Amen. -[5592.54 --> 5593.54] Amen. -[5593.54 --> 5594.54] Amen. -[5594.54 --> 5595.54] Amen. -[5596.10 --> 5599.08] Amen. -[5626.10 --> 5631.30] He gave his prayers and turned my Savior in. -[5632.76 --> 5639.12] Because he lives, I can face tomorrow. -[5639.12 --> 5647.64] Because he lives, all fear is gone. -[5648.20 --> 5654.62] Because I know he holds a future. -[5654.62 --> 5662.62] And life is worth living just because he lives. -[5663.72 --> 5670.18] I'll speak to old, a new-born baby. -[5671.30 --> 5677.50] And feel the pride and joy begin. -[5677.50 --> 5685.50] But greater still, a calm assurance. -[5685.50 --> 5690.60] This child can face uncertainties. -[5690.96 --> 5692.50] Because he lives. -[5692.50 --> 5696.50] Because he lives. -[5696.50 --> 5700.60] I can face tomorrow. -[5700.60 --> 5704.60] Because he lives. -[5704.60 --> 5708.60] Oh, fear is gone. -[5708.60 --> 5738.60] -[5738.60 --> 5746.60] And then as death gives way to victory. -[5746.60 --> 5750.60] I'll see the lights and glory. -[5750.60 --> 5754.60] And I'll know he reigns. -[5754.60 --> 5758.60] Because he lives. -[5758.60 --> 5760.60] Because he lives. -[5760.60 --> 5762.60] I can face tomorrow. -[5762.60 --> 5765.60] Because he lives. -[5765.60 --> 5769.60] Oh, fear is gone. -[5769.60 --> 5776.60] Because I know he holds the future. -[5776.60 --> 5786.60] And life is worth living just because he lives. -[5786.60 --> 5803.60] And life is worth living just because he lives. -[5803.60 --> 5805.60] And life is worth living just because the sarge can do. -[5809.60 --> 5810.60] And life is born with Oskarsis. -[5810.60 --> 5812.60] But I have never felt living just because. -[5812.60 --> 5813.60] And when you forget. -[5813.60 --> 5814.70] I feel sorry it was all right and listen. -[5814.76 --> 5816.60] Come here. -[5816.60 --> 5817.60] I do. -[5818.60 --> 5820.60] And I look at that ladder. -[5821.60 --> 5823.60] The tip of pride, hard to have a secretreshold嘛. -[5823.60 --> 5853.58] Thank you. -[5853.60 --> 5883.58] Thank you. -[5883.60 --> 5913.58] Thank you. -[5913.60 --> 5943.58] Thank you. -[5943.60 --> 5973.58] Thank you. -[5973.60 --> 6003.58] Thank you. -[6003.60 --> 6033.58] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 16, 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 16, 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d1f848cb2a6c0454012b8ccbd63b3d0329590d09..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 16, 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,58 +0,0 @@ -• Jesus' love and sacrifice -• The virgin birth and life of Jesus -• Praise and worship of God -• Redemption and reconciliation through Jesus -• Victory over death and evil -• Power in the name of Jesus -• Turning enemy intentions for good -• God's sovereignty and glory -• The speaker expresses confidence in a victory for the Lord -• Announcements are made about the youth program and a Zoom meeting to confirm office bearers -• The congregation is encouraged to worship God together, both physically and spiritually -• A time of confession and silent prayer is observed -• Psalms 119 and other hymns are sung to express gratitude and praise for God's grace and compassion -• The Lord's attributes, including graciousness, compassion, slowness to anger, and richness in love, are celebrated -• Praise and worship music -• Upcoming affirmation vote for council nominations -• Instructions on how to participate in the affirmation vote via email -• Kids' corner segment, including: - + Memory verse (Isaiah 41:13) - + Story about Pentecost and the Holy Spirit - + Hank the hound's antics and a special delivery -• Jesus' message is true, based on the Old Testament -• Three thousand people believed in Jesus as their savior and were baptized on Pentecost -• The disciples waited for the Holy Spirit to come, just like they had waited for Jesus to return -• A gift was given to Hank from Mrs. Nicky -• Sunday's sermon will be about Pentecost -• An offering is being collected for the Seeds of Hope Children's Ministry and Seafarers Ministry -• The congregation prayed for various needs, including those grieving, ill, or lonely -• The preacher reflects on his past experiences as a worker and manager, highlighting the importance of learning from good bosses and employees. -• He explains that his specific focus for this morning is to address Christians who work, particularly those in leadership positions or business owners. -• James' text in the Bible is explored, specifically addressing rich people and encouraging patience until the Lord's coming. -• The preacher invites non-Christians to listen and consider the biblical wisdom on working as a better view of life and labor. -• James writes to Christians about living a faithful life -• The author notes that James addresses believers, not unbelievers, but in chapter 5 he addresses the rich who don't believe -• These people are under God's wrath for their sin and will lose everything they treasure due to their unbelief and injustices -• The text warns against being like other nations or wanting wealth and riches like non-Christians -• James is saying that wealth and material possessions are not what give life meaning or purpose, but rather faith and living out one's beliefs. -• The relationship between career success and family relationships, with the speaker arguing that prioritizing one over the other can lead to negative consequences. -• The dangers of envy and comparison with others who have wealth or status. -• The importance of looking to faith and the saints for inspiration and motivation, rather than material wealth. -• The contrast between living a life driven by wealth and power versus living an abundant life in purpose and love. -• Biblical principles for working and wealth, including generosity, stewardship, and charity. -• The role of community, particularly the church, in giving and receiving support. -• The importance of generosity and stewardship among Christians -• The problem is not wealth, but how one uses it and gives meaning to their life with it -• The unbelieving rich are judged for their selfishness and exploitation of others -• Christian employers and business owners have a higher standard to live up to in terms of fair wages and treatment of employees -• The church should be a model of generosity and justice, taking care of its people and setting an example for the world. -• Worship and consecration to God -• Surrendering all aspects of life to God (time, talents, possessions, etc.) -• God's promise to be with His people and lead them -• Blessings and honor given to God as the Ancient of Days -• Praise and worship of God's glory and power -• Scripture-based affirmations of God's greatness and love -• Repeating and emphasizing various attributes of God (greater, stronger, higher, healer, awesome in power) -• Using "I've got us" phrases to emphasize God's presence and power -• Referencing biblical or Christian themes and language -• Discussing the idea that with God on their side, nothing can stop them \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 16, 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 16, 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c11c748a26e942c52ee5393c225ef040ce3edd5c..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 16, 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,690 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 15.00] Here I bow at the cross, at the cross, I surrender my life, I'm in awe of you, I'm in awe of you. -[15.00 --> 36.00] Where your love ran away, my sin washed white, I owe to you, I owe to you, I owe to you, I owe to you, Jesus. -[36.00 --> 55.32] Jesus, Savior, the world, your love ran away, your love ran away. -[66.00 --> 95.98] Jesus, Savior, the world, your love ran away. -[96.00 --> 103.00] To fulfill the law and promise, to a virgin came the word. -[103.82 --> 110.44] From a throne of endless glory, to a cradle in the dirt. -[110.44 --> 130.26] Praise the Father, praise the Son, praise the Spirit, three in one. -[130.26 --> 136.64] God of glory, majesty. -[137.26 --> 145.20] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[145.20 --> 156.20] To reveal the kingdom coming and to reconcile the lost. -[156.20 --> 163.32] To redeem the whole creation, you did not despise the cross. -[163.32 --> 170.38] For even in your suffering, you sought to the other side. -[170.88 --> 177.70] Knowing this was our salvation, Jesus, for our sake you died. -[177.70 --> 197.12] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, praise the Lord, praise the Lord, praise the Son, praise the Spirit, three in one. -[197.12 --> 204.12] God of glory, majesty. -[204.12 --> 212.12] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[212.12 --> 219.12] God of kings. -[219.12 --> 220.94] Mong eye to the King of kings. -[221.12 --> 221.94] When the God of kings rose. -[221.94 --> 229.94] It's bread to that stone was moved for good for the lamb had conquered death -[229.94 --> 232.98] and the dead rose from the -[232.98 --> 244.98] tomb and the angels stood in awe for the souls of all who'd come to the father are restored -[244.98 --> 260.98] and the church of christ was born then the spirit lit the flame now this gospel truth of old shall not kneel shall not faint but his blood and in his name -[260.98 --> 264.98] in his freedom -[264.98 --> 274.98] i am free for the love of jesus christ who has resurrected me -[278.98 --> 282.98] praise the father -[290.98 --> 304.98] praise forever to the king of kings -[304.98 --> 312.98] praise forever to the king of kings -[316.98 --> 320.98] praise forever to the king of kings -[320.98 --> 322.98] praise forever to the king of kings -[322.98 --> 326.98] praise forever to the king of kings -[328.98 --> 332.98] praise forever to the king of kings -[332.98 --> 343.52] The weapon may be formed, but it won't prosper -[343.52 --> 350.08] When the darkness falls, it won't prevail -[350.08 --> 356.06] Cause the God I serve knows only how to triumph -[356.06 --> 361.74] And my God will never fail -[362.98 --> 367.98] Oh my God, we'll never fail -[367.98 --> 371.70] I'm gonna see a victory -[371.70 --> 374.72] I'm gonna see a victory -[374.72 --> 380.48] For the battle belongs to you, Lord -[380.48 --> 383.94] I'm gonna see a victory -[383.94 --> 387.06] I'm gonna see a victory -[387.06 --> 392.06] For the battle belongs to you, Lord -[392.06 --> 395.06] Yeah -[395.06 --> 411.70] There's power in the mighty name of Jesus -[411.70 --> 418.36] Everyone he wages, he will win -[418.36 --> 423.70] I'm not backing down from any giant -[424.34 --> 425.82] No, no -[425.82 --> 430.06] Cause I know how this story ends -[430.06 --> 431.64] Yes, I do -[431.64 --> 436.54] Yes, I know how this story ends -[436.54 --> 439.80] I'm gonna see a victory -[439.80 --> 442.80] I'm gonna see a victory -[442.80 --> 448.62] For the battle belongs to you, Lord -[448.62 --> 451.62] I'm gonna see a victory -[451.62 --> 455.62] I'm gonna see a victory -[455.62 --> 461.62] For the battle belongs to you, Lord -[461.62 --> 464.62] Death could not hold you -[464.62 --> 467.62] The belt are before you -[467.62 --> 473.28] You silenced the boast of sin and grace -[473.28 --> 476.28] The heavens are roaring -[476.28 --> 479.28] The praise of your glory -[479.28 --> 485.28] For you are raised to life again -[485.28 --> 488.28] You have no right -[488.28 --> 491.28] You have no evil -[491.28 --> 493.28] Now and forever -[493.28 --> 494.28] Now and forever -[494.28 --> 497.28] Now and forever God you reign -[497.28 --> 499.28] Yours is the king -[499.28 --> 501.28] Yours is the king -[501.28 --> 502.28] Yours is the king -[502.28 --> 504.28] Yours is the glory -[504.28 --> 506.28] Yours is the name -[506.28 --> 507.28] Yours is the name -[507.28 --> 510.28] Above all names -[510.28 --> 513.28] I'm gonna see a victory -[513.28 --> 516.28] I'm gonna see a victory -[516.28 --> 522.28] For the battle belongs to you, Lord -[522.28 --> 525.28] I'm gonna see a victory -[525.28 --> 527.28] I'm gonna see a victory -[527.28 --> 531.28] For the battle belongs to you, Lord -[531.28 --> 533.28] Let's go -[533.28 --> 537.28] You take what the enemy make for evil -[537.28 --> 539.28] And you turn it for good -[539.28 --> 541.28] You turn it for good -[541.28 --> 544.28] You turn it for good -[544.28 --> 554.28] You take what the enemy meant for evil -[554.28 --> 557.28] And you turn it for good -[557.28 --> 562.28] You turn it for good -[562.28 --> 566.28] You take what the enemy meant for evil -[566.28 --> 569.28] And you turn it for good -[569.28 --> 573.28] You turn it for good -[573.28 --> 574.28] You turn it for good -[574.28 --> 575.28] You turn it for good -[575.28 --> 577.28] You take what the enemy meant for evil -[577.28 --> 578.28] You turn it for good -[578.28 --> 582.28] You turn it for good -[582.28 --> 584.28] You turn it for good -[584.28 --> 587.28] I'm gonna see a victory -[587.28 --> 588.28] I'm gonna see a victory -[588.28 --> 592.28] I'm gonna see a victory -[592.28 --> 596.28] For the battle belongs to you, Lord -[596.28 --> 604.28] I'm gonna see a victory -[604.28 --> 605.28] I'm gonna see a victory -[605.28 --> 608.28] For the battle belongs to you, Lord -[608.28 --> 610.28] I'm gonna see a victory -[610.28 --> 611.28] I'm gonna see a victory -[611.28 --> 641.26] Thank you. -[641.28 --> 671.26] Thank you. -[671.28 --> 673.28] Thank you. -[701.28 --> 703.28] Thank you. -[703.28 --> 705.28] Thank you. -[705.28 --> 707.28] Thank you. -[707.28 --> 709.28] Thank you. -[709.28 --> 713.28] Thank you. -[713.28 --> 715.28] Thank you. -[737.28 --> 739.28] Thank you. -[739.28 --> 741.28] Thank you. -[741.28 --> 743.28] Thank you. -[743.28 --> 745.28] Thank you. -[745.28 --> 747.28] Thank you. -[747.28 --> 753.22] our time together just a couple announcements first for the youth and the youth program there -[753.22 --> 759.38] is 2020 tonight and so that will happen here at church that begins at 7 youth and parents you -[759.38 --> 763.42] should have received an email or a message about that and so if you have any questions you can -[763.42 --> 769.42] contact pastor kevin he will clarify that otherwise show up tonight at seven o'clock for a good time -[769.42 --> 776.82] together as well following our worship today at 11 30 we will have a zoom coffee meeting and so -[776.82 --> 785.02] please join us for that this is a special meeting in that we will be voting to confirm some office -[785.02 --> 790.32] bearers later today and we will encourage you to do that in that zoom meeting but peter will speak -[790.32 --> 796.34] some more about that later as well and so following the service zoom coffee 11 30 link is in the e-bulletin -[796.34 --> 803.78] that you have received we gather together to worship our god because he calls us and he meets us here -[803.78 --> 809.64] together and so whether you are gathered here with the 10 of us or at home in your living rooms -[809.64 --> 817.20] gathering spiritually together we come as a community to worship god and so receive his greeting -[817.20 --> 825.20] grace mercy and peace to you from god our father from the lord jesus christ his son -[825.20 --> 832.32] and our savior through the presence and power the holy spirit amen let's worship god together -[832.32 --> 844.36] good morning as we join our hearts in worship together let us reflect on god's presence with us -[844.36 --> 851.18] and be grateful grateful for the presence of hope grateful for the gift of jesus our savior -[851.18 --> 859.70] may we reflect on god's presence with us and be humbled humbled by his gift of grace humbled by his -[859.70 --> 866.62] invitation to begin again no matter how often we have strayed this past week and when we reflect on -[866.62 --> 873.04] this church of believers in the community that we all share may we be thankful thankful that we can -[873.04 --> 882.80] corporately apart but yet as one body worship together our almighty god may our lights shine may our hearts be glad -[882.80 --> 889.20] god is faithful to us and god rules in love let's worship our amazing god this morning -[889.20 --> 894.02] ourgli is -[894.02 --> 899.60] that we are -[899.60 --> 923.14] Come all you people, come and praise your maker. -[923.14 --> 928.26] Come all you people, come and praise your maker. -[928.26 --> 933.26] Come all you people, come and praise your maker. -[933.70 --> 937.74] Come now and worship the Lord. -[937.74 --> 954.26] Come all you people, come and praise the Savior -[954.26 --> 958.26] Come now and worship the Lord -[958.26 --> 964.26] Come all you people, come and praise the Spirit -[964.26 --> 969.26] Come all you people, come and praise the Spirit -[969.26 --> 974.26] Come all you people, come and praise the Spirit -[974.26 --> 979.26] Come now and worship the Lord -[979.26 --> 985.26] Come now and worship the Lord -[988.26 --> 991.26] In a time of confession this morning, let's take a few moments -[991.26 --> 994.26] Open up our hearts before God -[994.26 --> 998.26] In a time of personal silent prayer -[1021.26 --> 1024.26] Let's sing together in God's grace and compassion for us and what it's promised in Psalm 119 -[1024.26 --> 1031.26] Let's sing together in God's grace and compassion for us and what it's promised in Psalm 119 -[1031.26 --> 1046.26] Let's sing together in God's grace and compassion for us and what it's promised in Psalm 119 -[1046.26 --> 1049.26] Let's sing together in Psalm 119 -[1049.26 --> 1052.26] Let's sing together in Psalm 119 -[1052.26 --> 1066.26] Let's sing together in Psalm 119 -[1066.26 --> 1069.26] Lord is gracious and compassionate -[1070.36 --> 1075.26] Slow to anger and rich in love -[1075.26 --> 1082.30] in love the lord is gracious and compassionate -[1085.42 --> 1089.26] slow to anger and rich in love -[1092.54 --> 1102.14] and the lord is good to all he has compassion on all that he has made -[1105.98 --> 1118.14] as far as the east is from the west that's how far he has removed our transgressions from us -[1119.42 --> 1130.14] as far as the east is from the west that's how far he has removed our transgressions from us -[1130.14 --> 1134.86] praise the lord -[1134.86 --> 1139.58] oh my soul -[1139.58 --> 1144.30] praise the lord -[1144.30 --> 1153.02] oh my soul -[1153.02 --> 1157.74] praise the lord -[1157.74 --> 1163.74] the lord is gracious and compassionate -[1163.74 --> 1170.46] slow to anger and rich in love -[1170.46 --> 1176.46] the lord is gracious and compassionate -[1176.46 --> 1183.18] slow to anger and rich in love -[1183.18 --> 1189.18] and the lord is good to all -[1189.18 --> 1191.90] is good to all -[1191.90 --> 1193.90] he has compassion -[1193.90 --> 1198.62] and all that he has made -[1198.62 --> 1203.34] as far as the east is from the west -[1203.34 --> 1205.34] that's how far -[1205.34 --> 1212.06] that's how far he has removed our transgressions from us -[1212.06 --> 1218.06] as far as the east is from the west -[1218.06 --> 1222.78] that's how far -[1222.78 --> 1226.78] that's how far -[1226.78 --> 1230.78] he has removed our transgressions from us -[1230.78 --> 1241.50] praise the lord -[1241.50 --> 1243.50] praise the lord -[1243.50 --> 1256.22] praise the lord -[1256.22 --> 1260.22] praise the lord -[1260.22 --> 1264.94] oh my soul -[1264.94 --> 1266.94] oh my soul -[1266.94 --> 1270.94] praise the lord -[1270.94 --> 1272.94] oh my soul -[1272.94 --> 1277.66] oh my soul -[1277.66 --> 1278.94] oh my soul -[1278.94 --> 1279.42] oh my soul -[1279.42 --> 1280.78] going to go in a quick announcement -[1282.38 --> 1286.22] about the affirmation vote that is happening today -[1286.94 --> 1288.22] for council nominations -[1289.34 --> 1291.58] the names have been published for two weeks -[1292.54 --> 1298.22] and seeing no objections we're going to have a affirmation vote today at 11 30. -[1298.22 --> 1300.46] i'm going to try to say that time a few times so you remember -[1301.18 --> 1302.38] you should receive an email -[1303.10 --> 1305.82] from this site that we normally use for our congregational votes -[1307.02 --> 1309.26] during the pandemic the election runner site -[1310.14 --> 1313.74] and this will have a link for you to vote to affirm the names -[1314.46 --> 1315.58] if you don't receive an email -[1316.70 --> 1321.66] for the election from election runner you should have received an email already from the church this morning with -[1322.30 --> 1327.66] details and instructions and how to get onto the site to do the vote so please make sure -[1328.22 --> 1336.14] to take time 11 30 to uh to log in and make that vote i know that's when uh zoom coffee starts -[1336.14 --> 1342.46] too so if you get into your zoom coffee uh remind all the people are having coffee with or just ask have you done your vote yet -[1343.02 --> 1354.78] please try to make sure you do that between 11 30 and 12 30. thank you -[1358.22 --> 1365.18] hi kids welcome to kids corner this sunday i hope you're enjoying church so far it's so good to be -[1365.18 --> 1369.26] able to do this together even if it's through the televisions uh why don't you come a little bit -[1369.26 --> 1372.86] closer to the tv again as close as your parents will let you come sit nice and close -[1373.66 --> 1379.02] and we are going to look at a bible story today and first though before we look at this bible story -[1379.02 --> 1383.34] and talk about what it means for us we are going to hear a memory verse and we've got two -[1383.34 --> 1387.66] volunteers who are going to run that memory verse for us right now so let's watch that video -[1390.62 --> 1402.38] i am the lord your god who takes hold of your right hand says to you do not fear i will help you -[1402.38 --> 1407.66] thank you isaiah 41 verse 13. -[1407.66 --> 1415.74] thank you for kids that was great hi everyone hank the hound is here with us today as well so say hi -[1415.74 --> 1424.78] to hank really loudly so he can hear you hi everyone we are gonna do a little story today on pentecost does -[1424.78 --> 1432.54] that sound good yeah but first i want to just do something here so hi kids hi everyone bonjour -[1432.54 --> 1443.42] les enfants what what hola ninos what is happening hello kinderen are you okay ni hao hazyman are you -[1443.42 --> 1454.06] slurring your words i think he's in trouble kevin can you lift your hands what is going on hank what was -[1454.06 --> 1459.74] that i couldn't understand what you were saying i was speaking in different languages i was saying hi -[1459.74 --> 1471.10] kids in five different languages oh oh i see does that make sense why were you so worried i thought you -[1471.10 --> 1477.26] were in trouble oh well no i'm doing fine so that's what the story's going to be about today is about -[1477.26 --> 1482.22] some different languages oh but what is this look hank something is coming for you there's a special -[1482.22 --> 1491.18] delivery i think here you go hank look at that it says to hank let's open it no hey wait wait wait i -[1491.18 --> 1498.14] want to open it now hank we're gonna wait we have to do a story can we do the story after no we're gonna -[1498.14 --> 1513.58] do the story first you have to just be patient can you be patient okay okay good just wait patiently -[1513.58 --> 1519.90] and we will open up this nice gift okay but first let's read the story today i bookmarked it so this -[1519.90 --> 1525.58] shouldn't give me much trouble smart i can't open the book hank i'll help -[1530.22 --> 1538.70] thanks hank all right we will read this story it comes from acts chapter two okay here we go it's -[1538.70 --> 1545.42] called joy came down can you see kids can you see the pictures here we go jesus promised to always be -[1545.42 --> 1559.82] a surprise a surprise yeah a surprise he was waiting it was the holy spirit now some followers -[1559.82 --> 1566.86] of jesus were in an upstairs room of a house when a mighty rushing wind came from heaven a wind yeah -[1566.86 --> 1576.38] a burst of fire skipped fire yeah fire that's scary no keep listening it's very exciting bursts of -[1576.38 --> 1583.90] fire that skipped in all directions and danced on the wind then what looked like tongues of fire -[1583.90 --> 1590.62] settled on each person this was not a typical fire this was the holy spirit -[1590.62 --> 1597.82] joy filled their hearts like it never had before it was a joyful love so powerful that they had to -[1597.82 --> 1605.18] tell everyone jesus's holy spirit had come down from heaven hallelujah the christians shouted praise -[1605.18 --> 1612.06] god on that very day people from all over the world were in jerusalem to celebrate pentecost -[1612.06 --> 1615.98] when they heard that the disciples were loudly speaking their different languages -[1615.98 --> 1623.58] people were shocked and came running to see what was going on aren't these uneducated men from galilee -[1623.58 --> 1629.82] how can they speak all these different languages but some people made fun of them they said look at -[1629.82 --> 1635.18] those crazy jesus followers they said what is wrong with them now kind of like what you just did to me hank -[1636.78 --> 1643.10] but some realized that nothing was wrong everything was so right jesus lived in their hearts -[1643.10 --> 1651.34] one more page here peter stood up and he looked at the crowd and he shouted listen to my words -[1651.34 --> 1657.10] everything you've heard about jesus is true if you don't believe me read the old testament read what -[1657.10 --> 1663.82] the prophets had to say jesus came to save us from sin evil men crucified him on a cross but god raised him -[1663.82 --> 1671.18] from the dead they went up to heaven and now he sent us the holy spirit that is why you see us so filled -[1671.18 --> 1677.26] with joy it's jesus love filling our hearts he has come to live in our hearts forever after the people -[1677.26 --> 1683.34] heard this some of them wanted jesus in their hearts too what should we do to have jesus live in our hearts -[1683.34 --> 1690.46] they asked repent and be baptized peter said yeah and you will be forgiven and receive the gift of the -[1690.46 --> 1698.46] holy spirit on that day three thousand people believed in jesus as their savior and were baptized wow that is -[1698.46 --> 1704.38] a big number three thousand that is a big number hooray said the disciples let's go and tell the -[1704.38 --> 1710.30] whole world about jesus and that's what they did just like jesus told them to do and they started many -[1710.30 --> 1717.66] churches that way isn't that quite the story hank that is incredible yeah and so that day was called -[1717.66 --> 1721.58] pentecost and it's a day that we're celebrating this week i think actually next week sunday we're going -[1721.58 --> 1725.98] to hear a sermon on pentecost um but we are doing in children's worship time this week because that's what the -[1725.98 --> 1731.74] schedule said uh that's what the curriculum had laid out so that's what we're doing cool we just like to -[1731.74 --> 1736.14] be ahead of the adults sometimes because we like to get ahead of them yeah that means we win well -[1736.14 --> 1741.34] not really win but we do get to go a little bit early which is kind of nice hey can i open my gift -[1741.34 --> 1745.90] now you're rambling yeah we'll open your gift let's do it you're good hank you know why we're waiting -[1746.70 --> 1752.62] why because the disciples had to wait a little bit for the holy spirit god was ascended to heaven and then -[1752.62 --> 1759.10] they had to wait for him to come in his holy spirit into their hearts so they had to be patient too -[1759.10 --> 1763.74] that's right and you've been very patient let's open this gift first we'll read the card can you read it -[1765.10 --> 1773.66] to hank i'm very sorry for sitting on you during kids corner before please forgive me and enjoy this -[1773.66 --> 1781.66] gift from me to you from mrs nicky wow that's very nice of her isn't it let's try to open this with one -[1781.66 --> 1796.14] hand i'll help good job hank wow it's a boon -[1798.94 --> 1806.38] thanks mrs nicky all right thanks everyone i hope you have a good sunday let's pray and then we will -[1806.38 --> 1812.78] move on with our service okay so please bow your heads with me dear god thank you so much for -[1812.78 --> 1817.82] sending your holy spirit for all of us to live in our hearts thank you for that day of pentecost where -[1817.82 --> 1822.22] you did that for the disciples and for allowing them to speak to so many different people in so -[1822.22 --> 1827.58] many different languages that day be with us as we get to share the gospel with our friends allow us -[1827.58 --> 1834.06] to be able to tell them about you and to be able to share your message of grace to them allow us to do -[1834.06 --> 1837.58] that well we pray in your name amen bye kids -[1847.18 --> 1855.98] good morning today's offering is for um the seeds of hope children's ministry uh we had our church had a -[1855.98 --> 1864.14] drive yesterday and it went well and next week's offering is for the seafarers ministry um let us -[1864.14 --> 1870.94] come together in our congregational prayer father we give thanks for this day and the opportunity we -[1870.94 --> 1876.86] have to worship you together this morning wherever we are gathered thank you that you are among us -[1877.98 --> 1883.98] in our individual thank you that you're among us in our individual families and as a larger family here -[1883.98 --> 1889.26] at emmanuel thank you for this church community and the way we are able to support the seeds of hope -[1889.26 --> 1895.18] children's ministry this weekend with a donation drive bless this ministry and use these items and -[1895.18 --> 1901.26] the funds raised to better the lives of these children we continue to lift up those in our congregation -[1901.26 --> 1907.42] who are grieving in different ways bless and comfort those who are mourning both recent and past losses -[1907.42 --> 1913.66] surround them with your love and peace be with those who are lonely grieving the loss of contact with -[1913.66 --> 1919.66] others be with those who are grieving the loss of employment and job security help us as a church -[1919.66 --> 1925.26] family to have open hearts and eyes to see how and where we can walk alongside with those who are hurting -[1926.54 --> 1931.66] we pray for those in our church family who are unwell families who are dealing with covid symptoms and -[1931.66 --> 1938.22] isolation as well as well as those with different ongoing medical needs thank you for our medical -[1938.22 --> 1944.22] professionals and guide their hands and minds to provide care that is needed we continue to pray -[1944.22 --> 1950.22] for insight and wisdom for the leadership of this church for pastor chris kevin and our council members -[1950.94 --> 1956.70] thank you for those who have agreed to let their names stand for council guide and prepare these men and -[1956.70 --> 1962.70] women for the task ahead and help us such as church to step out in faith in a time and place of uncertainty -[1964.22 --> 1970.22] bless the teaching of pastor chris this morning may your words and your truth be spoken go before us -[1970.22 --> 1975.26] into this day and this week and we pray that the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts -[1975.26 --> 1980.22] may be pleasing to you our lord our rock and our redeemer amen -[1987.50 --> 1994.62] this morning in our worship together as we come to the word of god we're jumping back into the book of -[1994.62 --> 2003.50] james we've got a couple more weeks in that book yet although next week as pastor kevin and hank -[2004.38 --> 2009.82] helped us to see or maybe confused us some more in the midst of i don't know but next week is pentecost -[2009.82 --> 2017.34] and so we will reflect on that in our time together there this morning however we're going to read -[2017.34 --> 2025.10] from james 5 verse 1 through 6 and so i encourage you to grab a bible and have that in front of you as -[2025.10 --> 2034.14] we read together and then as we reflect a little bit on god's wisdom for working so this is from james 5 -[2034.14 --> 2044.14] now listen you rich people weep and wail because of the misery that is coming on you your wealth has -[2044.14 --> 2051.18] rotted and moths have eaten your clothes your gold and silver are corroded their corrosion will testify -[2051.18 --> 2059.18] against you and eat your flesh like fire you have hoarded wealth in the last days look the wages you -[2059.18 --> 2065.98] failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you the cries of the harvesters -[2065.98 --> 2073.66] have reached the ears of the lord almighty you have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence -[2073.66 --> 2080.46] you have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter you have condemned and murdered the innocent one -[2080.46 --> 2086.46] who was not opposing you this is the word of the lord -[2089.18 --> 2096.30] now it might surprise some of you and maybe just the the younger uh among those listening this -[2096.30 --> 2103.34] morning that i haven't always been a pastor and in fact i had a few jobs before that god called me -[2103.34 --> 2109.26] into ministry before i went into university to start that journey of answering god's call to ministry -[2111.74 --> 2119.10] and in those jobs i had a number of really good experiences and a number of not so good experiences -[2119.10 --> 2124.94] with co-workers with ideas around what it means to be a good worker but also what it means to be -[2125.50 --> 2131.66] a good boss and so uh you know as a teenager i worked at mcdonald's and eventually i was a manager -[2131.66 --> 2137.98] at the mcdonald's that i worked at so i both was a worker and in some cases a boss and tried to figure -[2137.98 --> 2144.94] that out and what that was like i'll never forget i worked for a gentleman who i grew up with his kids -[2144.94 --> 2150.70] in school and they owned a farm manufacturing business and i worked for them pushing a broom -[2150.70 --> 2156.30] around the shop but learned how to do spot welding and painting and all sorts of fun stuff there and -[2156.30 --> 2161.66] actually fred weaning in my mind will go down as one of the greatest people i have ever worked for as -[2161.66 --> 2167.02] he was just a model of what i think and what i will hope we will see together of what it means to be a -[2167.02 --> 2174.14] christian business person i've built houses for a number of years and then even while i was in -[2174.14 --> 2181.98] university working towards my call into ministry i did that alongside of being in university -[2182.86 --> 2188.78] to help pay for the costs of those sorts of things and built houses started with framing and then -[2188.78 --> 2194.70] eventually got into more and more custom renovations and woodworking and then eventually some fine -[2195.42 --> 2201.18] woodworking over that period as well and then as well nick vanderheide who i worked for i would hold -[2201.18 --> 2209.02] up as an example of what it means to be a good christian boss but along the way there were some -[2209.02 --> 2215.90] who professed to be christian but i wouldn't hold up as an example of what that is like and i'm trying -[2215.90 --> 2219.90] to be very careful and charitable in my language there in case they happen to watch this because it's now -[2219.90 --> 2230.54] forever recorded online for posterity's sake and so as we come into this text together i want us to be -[2231.82 --> 2241.74] mindful of what james is doing and the the wisdom that he is calling us to as christians and and perhaps -[2241.74 --> 2251.74] the uh the roundabout way that he gets us there because i think that as christian workers but -[2251.74 --> 2260.62] especially as christian employers the bible's wisdom for working that james is sharing with us has a very -[2260.62 --> 2270.14] specific hue to it a very specific direction and application for it and exploring that specific hue and -[2270.14 --> 2279.26] direction for christians is my goal for us this morning now as you hear that i want to -[2281.10 --> 2285.74] hear that specific focus i want you to hear that specific focus for this morning -[2285.74 --> 2293.18] all right first i'm talking to christians right there are times when the words of scripture and when my -[2293.18 --> 2297.42] preaching i stand up here i stand up here and they're words that are meant for all of humanity -[2298.46 --> 2302.94] there are times when the words of scripture and the preaching that i do up here are meant for -[2303.50 --> 2309.02] people exploring christianity or first coming to know jesus and there are times where -[2309.98 --> 2318.38] there these words are just for us as christian people and then there are times probably the vast -[2318.38 --> 2326.22] majority of times where it's a mix of all three of those things together but this morning my specific -[2326.86 --> 2333.98] focus my specific audience the target of this message is people who identify as christians and -[2334.62 --> 2341.74] more particularly christians who work right christians who work whether it's full-time or part-time or or -[2341.74 --> 2348.06] volunteer it doesn't matter if you work if you call yourself a christian and you're listening this is for you -[2349.02 --> 2354.38] now if you're a student whether in high school or university or college or trade school a journeyman or -[2354.38 --> 2361.18] an apprentice if you are planning on entering the workforce someday in some way this is for you -[2362.22 --> 2370.70] and then near the end is a sort of laser focus i want to talk to those of us who run businesses those of -[2370.70 --> 2378.30] us who own businesses or manage people or are otherwise responsible for people and so if you are -[2378.30 --> 2384.94] anywhere in this thing called a workforce even if you are officially retired because let's be honest -[2384.94 --> 2390.62] we know that that's not really a construct that you can follow this is going to catch you up -[2392.22 --> 2398.54] now that said if you're not yet a christian and you're listening this morning i don't want you to hear -[2398.54 --> 2403.82] that as an excuse to stop listening and exploring what we're talking about instead i want to hold out -[2404.38 --> 2411.50] this vision of labor this wisdom for working as something that that might be compelling to your -[2411.50 --> 2418.46] heart's imagination i want to challenge you to to see in the bible's wisdom for working -[2419.74 --> 2428.54] a true and better view of life and working than what you are currently hanging on to because maybe just -[2428.54 --> 2434.86] maybe and i actually believe that this is the case that the design and intent of god for your work is -[2435.42 --> 2443.34] better than whatever secular or western or individualistic or whatever story that you are -[2443.34 --> 2453.10] holding on to right now in fact gathering us all up again i think that there is a precedent in our text for -[2453.10 --> 2459.66] for doing exactly this for making this exact distinction between christian workers and those -[2459.66 --> 2467.42] who don't believe the same as us and so with your bible look closely with me at this text -[2468.62 --> 2476.78] verse one begins and says now listen you rich people weep and wail because of the misery that is -[2476.78 --> 2483.10] coming on you right he begins this chapter james begins this chapter with a form of address he says -[2483.10 --> 2491.10] now listen you rich people right james is talking to rich people but not just any rich people right -[2491.66 --> 2498.22] again bible's open because we didn't read it but look at verse seven verse seven says be patient then -[2498.22 --> 2507.10] brothers and sisters until the lord's coming or keep going back with me chapter 4 verse 11 brothers and -[2507.10 --> 2514.78] sisters do not slander one another keep going back verse chapter 3 verse 10 and 12 my brothers and sisters -[2514.78 --> 2525.02] this should not be my brothers and sisters can a fig tree bear olives or chapter 2 right you'll see there's a -[2525.02 --> 2530.46] there's a recurring theme here in chapter 2 14 james says what good is it my brothers and sisters if -[2530.46 --> 2537.98] someone claims to have faith but has no deeds chapter 1 same thing don't be deceived my dear brothers and -[2537.98 --> 2547.50] sisters right you see what james does when james is addressing christians he calls them brothers and sisters he -[2547.50 --> 2554.94] calls them fellow believers and then each time that he is talking to fellow believers about a sin or -[2554.94 --> 2561.42] a wrong attitude or a wrong behavior he calls them to repentance he calls them and tells them to -[2561.42 --> 2567.18] change to in the language of our series here to make their faith real by being hearers and doers -[2567.18 --> 2574.70] of the word right we know that that james is writing to christians who are likely experiencing -[2574.70 --> 2580.46] some sorts of hardship maybe even early forms of persecution we know that these christians are -[2580.46 --> 2588.22] are being challenged to maintain their uniquely christian identity in the world but here in -[2588.22 --> 2596.30] these six verses chapter 5 it's different right he doesn't call these people he is addressing and he -[2596.30 --> 2601.50] uses the the formal grammatical construction of greek of an address so we know that he is addressing a -[2601.50 --> 2607.18] certain type or group of people he doesn't call them brothers or sisters he doesn't call them to -[2607.18 --> 2614.54] repentance in fact all we get in these verses is god's judgment and his doom on these rich people -[2615.90 --> 2625.90] so what we know from that is that these are rich people who don't believe these are rich people who -[2626.54 --> 2635.26] are oppressing the uh the the believing christians and the believing poor this these are rich people who are -[2635.26 --> 2643.66] still under the wrath of god for sin right these are people uh for whom the second half of john 3 16 -[2643.66 --> 2649.50] applies right whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of -[2649.50 --> 2662.70] god's one and only son james is talking to or about unbelieving rich and so if you're coming along this -[2662.70 --> 2670.86] journey and you're wrestling with this text with me that begs a certain question for us right in a -[2670.86 --> 2678.14] letter that is meant for christians why would james address the unbelieving rich that they're not likely -[2678.14 --> 2682.54] to ever read it right they won't see it they won't find it they're not going to come across this letter -[2682.54 --> 2689.10] in their life circumstances or situations why write such a devastating and to be frank and an eternally -[2689.10 --> 2697.66] destructive message for them james is effectively saying the unbelieving rich will lose everything -[2697.66 --> 2702.78] they treasure and they will be judged for their unbelief and the injustices committed in pursuit of -[2702.78 --> 2710.38] their wealth now that's not an encouraging message for the unbelieving rich person but this letter isn't for -[2710.38 --> 2718.38] them and that's james point right james is writing at this point in his letter just like an old testament prophet -[2718.38 --> 2725.50] are the old testament prophets speaking and writing for israel and later judah regularly proclaim the -[2725.50 --> 2731.42] doom of the pagan nations around them the old testament prophets regularly have a message of destruction -[2731.42 --> 2734.94] for the unbelieving nations that surrounded israel and judah -[2737.58 --> 2745.98] and so what was one of the biggest and most consistent challenges that the people of israel faced in their -[2745.98 --> 2751.58] identity as the people of god right if you have the eyes to see it and you read through the old -[2751.58 --> 2755.66] testament especially in the prophets you can see this over and over but also in the the beginning -[2755.66 --> 2761.58] processes of judges and the kings right the the people wanted to be like the other nations right they -[2761.58 --> 2767.34] wanted a king like the other nations and so they got saul they worshiped the gods of the other nations they -[2767.34 --> 2774.94] wanted to live like the other nations and the prophets come along and they're pointing out the compromise of the people -[2774.94 --> 2781.42] right the prophets are saying you want to be like the other nations this is what the lord has in store for -[2781.42 --> 2790.78] those unbelieving people the same thing is happening here in james's letter to the churches there is a temptation -[2790.78 --> 2804.54] to be like other people there is a temptation to want the wealth and the riches of others there is an idea here about life and the good life that roots it in wealth -[2804.54 --> 2812.78] our hearts are tempted by the idea that stuff makes us happy and more stuff makes more happy -[2813.82 --> 2823.10] and james like the old testament prophets before him is saying look at the way god sees their wealth and its -[2823.74 --> 2832.54] attended injustices right is that really something you want to envy look at what god says is waiting for them -[2832.54 --> 2838.38] is that really something you want to compromise your christian beliefs for and with -[2838.38 --> 2841.82] because you see it's really easy to -[2841.82 --> 2845.82] to look at the rich people in your life -[2845.82 --> 2847.02] especially -[2847.02 --> 2850.02] if you are struggling with poverty -[2850.02 --> 2853.98] it's really easy to look at the rich people and to want what they have -[2853.98 --> 2861.18] but the unbelieving rich have something coming that is worse than any blessed life they might find -[2861.18 --> 2869.58] in this world and make no mistake about it right compared to the vast majority of the world most of us -[2869.58 --> 2872.62] here and watching are counted among the rich -[2873.82 --> 2881.10] in fact even in the more local closer to home view of canada or the fraser valley right most of us are -[2881.10 --> 2890.94] counted as wealthy and the dominant story in our culture is that wealth equals success that riches -[2890.94 --> 2896.62] make for the good life that you've got to have more stuff and get more stuff in order to feel like -[2896.62 --> 2903.34] you've accomplished something or that after you've accomplished something your reward is rightly and properly -[2903.34 --> 2911.18] more stuff and the deep truth is most of us don't even realize the comprehensive and deep ways that that story -[2911.18 --> 2913.42] has shaped our understanding of the world -[2915.26 --> 2923.66] and like i said i'm talking to the real faith christians this morning the hearers and doers and -[2923.66 --> 2929.90] you might never actually say out loud riches make meaning right you might never actually say out loud -[2929.90 --> 2935.82] uh in the words of duddy kravitz from the great canadian literature uh novel a man without land is -[2935.82 --> 2943.66] nothing right you might never say out loud my job is my identity but in small and insidious and -[2943.66 --> 2947.98] compounding ways you prove by your lifestyle that you do -[2951.74 --> 2958.14] maybe you don't have a relationship with your kids today because you weren't around as they were -[2958.14 --> 2965.90] growing up because you were at work and you tell yourself all sorts of things like i work so hard -[2965.90 --> 2972.22] for my kids that's how i show my love for them but in truth in the language of religious affection -[2972.22 --> 2979.18] right we've sacrificed our family on the career on the altar of career success because your kids -[2979.18 --> 2985.66] don't care about your bank account they just don't right they want a hug they want to go for a bike ride -[2985.66 --> 2994.46] they want a story at bedtime or maybe you don't feel close to anyone but in life you are surrounded -[2994.46 --> 3000.86] with countless people maybe your story is that you've pursued career success so hard that you've -[3000.86 --> 3007.18] actively pushed people away because they didn't get you closer to your goals right you had no use for -[3007.18 --> 3013.50] them as the saying goes and maybe you've just passively put it out there that that getting to the top 40 -[3013.50 --> 3020.38] under 40 list or top 60 under 60 or whatever age you are right is that's what matters to you and that -[3020.38 --> 3025.26] people are just going to get out of the way in order for that to happen and so now in your life your -[3025.26 --> 3029.66] only friend is the uber eats driver who comes four times a week to bring you dinner and maybe the -[3029.66 --> 3035.02] bartender that you happen to talk to as you find moments of excuse right in the language of religious -[3035.02 --> 3042.46] affection again you've pushed people away to receive the sacrament of status but now there's no one -[3042.46 --> 3054.46] left to genuinely share that with look john calvin in in commenting on this text from james that we are -[3054.46 --> 3063.18] looking at says this he says james has a regard to the faithful that they hearing the miserable end of -[3063.18 --> 3075.50] the rich might not envy their fortune but it's so easy in our world to envy the fortunes the rich we want -[3075.50 --> 3083.90] what they have we aspire to be like them and sometimes we become bitter when we can't or when we don't have -[3083.90 --> 3087.18] what they have instead -[3087.18 --> 3095.66] what if we didn't look to the wealth of the unbelieving rich for inspiration and motivation -[3096.54 --> 3102.78] what if we looked to the to the faith of the saints for inspiration and motivation and just like the the -[3102.78 --> 3109.18] old testament prophets before him james is inviting you to share in a true and better story of right belief -[3109.18 --> 3117.26] james is saying look jesus is the hero of this story jesus is the gospel the good news the only really -[3117.26 --> 3123.34] good news in all the world right the life that he lived he lived for you the death that he died he died -[3123.34 --> 3133.18] to save you his death brings you life and jesus himself said he brings you an abundant life and not of wealth or -[3133.18 --> 3139.02] status or power or at least not necessarily in fact quite explicitly right he says that you might have to give -[3139.02 --> 3147.26] all that up but it is an abundant life in purpose it is abundant life in the the lavish love of the -[3147.26 --> 3154.94] father washing down over you it is abundant in reflecting the glory of god you are being transformed -[3154.94 --> 3161.90] the scriptures say from one degree of glory to another you are being saved and sanctified for a life -[3161.90 --> 3168.86] of faith of faith and faithfulness and that life that life is the one that you were created for -[3171.26 --> 3180.86] that life is the life of joy and meaning and purpose that is the life that says in riches and in poverty -[3180.86 --> 3191.50] it is well with my soul that's gospel identity for the christian that's gospel purpose for our lives -[3191.50 --> 3197.58] together and it is an altogether different story than the world is telling or the world would have -[3197.58 --> 3206.94] you believe and that's the contrast that james wants us to see this morning so he pronounces the judgment -[3206.94 --> 3214.86] of god on the unbelieving rich in these verses and he is also by contrast then showing us a biblical -[3214.86 --> 3224.54] wisdom for riches and for working and for wealth and the contrast then becomes our point of inference -[3224.54 --> 3233.26] from which we can discern biblical principles for our actions in the world and so by way of application -[3233.98 --> 3241.82] let's take the contrast james is making and turn it into biblical principles for our working wisdom or our -[3241.82 --> 3248.78] wisdom for working here's what we will then see the unbelieving rich are judged for their stockpiling -[3248.78 --> 3254.86] their squandering and their selling out to selfishness right they're stockpiling they're squandering and -[3254.86 --> 3262.30] they're selling out to selfishness and so christians that is living a hearer and doer faith made real christians -[3262.30 --> 3273.18] will be generous and stewardly and charitable stockpiling your wealth has rotted and moths have eaten your clothes -[3273.18 --> 3278.78] your gold and silver are corroded their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire -[3278.78 --> 3288.70] you have hoarded wealth in the last days james is saying that this sort of extreme stockpiling has no -[3288.70 --> 3296.30] purpose except for pride but it is a way of of looking at your kingdom of surveying your possessions and -[3296.30 --> 3305.82] saying look what i have done in contrast christians must recognize that what we have is a gift from god that -[3305.82 --> 3315.82] every good and perfect gift comes from above and as a gift from god it must properly be used for god -[3315.82 --> 3327.58] and god gives his gifts for the aid and help of human life god gives his good gifts for the the edification -[3327.58 --> 3331.66] the gathering up and the drawing to glory of the church -[3335.34 --> 3344.46] they are given in order to give freely you have received and so freely you shall give second corinthians 9 is -[3344.46 --> 3352.30] is all about how generosity is the pattern of giving for the christian church and let me be clear okay -[3352.30 --> 3357.26] abundantly clear because sometimes we'd like to make our own rules around this sort of thing i'm not -[3357.26 --> 3364.46] putting a number on generosity i'm not talking about 10 or 50 or 100 there are examples in scripture of all -[3364.46 --> 3370.86] of those numbers the new testament doesn't put a number on it for us but what jesus and the whole new -[3370.86 --> 3378.54] testament after him does do is confirm that we must be generous right the the rule if you must have one -[3378.54 --> 3381.74] for our giving as christians is generosity -[3384.62 --> 3392.14] and also note that the the role of community the role of the church can't be understated here -[3393.18 --> 3399.50] right it is the western story that ties our wealth and our experience of wealth to individualism -[3399.50 --> 3406.54] and to individual effort the church is a community right and so some will give more to the church -[3406.54 --> 3413.50] some will receive more from the church and blessed be the name of the lord that's all that matters -[3413.50 --> 3421.02] instead of stockpiling let's be generous together instead of telling the story that will end in -[3421.02 --> 3427.58] judgment let's tell the story of generosity that reveals the grace god -[3429.50 --> 3434.70] the unbelieving rich are judged for their squandering look at verse five you have lived on earth in -[3434.70 --> 3442.30] luxury and self-indulgence you have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter now this -[3442.94 --> 3452.06] squandering is in excess and extravagance right this is making yourself plump with the success and status and -[3452.06 --> 3460.30] position in society only to find out that in the end all the unbelieving end up the same the reward is -[3460.30 --> 3470.78] fleeting in this life but the judgment is forever instead as christians we are called to a responsibility of -[3471.34 --> 3478.14] stewardship right and to steward something is to care for it even if it doesn't belong to you -[3478.14 --> 3487.98] right be a be a steward of god's gifts and and like god use them lavishly right steward them wisely and -[3487.98 --> 3498.54] and spread them out liberally and look let me be clear here right the the problem that james isn't addressing -[3498.54 --> 3506.06] isn't the fact of being rich or the fact of being wealthy the problem isn't wealth the problem is what we -[3506.06 --> 3511.98] do with it the problem is the meaning we make for ourselves in the midst of having it and so as -[3511.98 --> 3519.02] those of us here who are wealthy by relative standards and by international standards abundantly so -[3519.02 --> 3530.54] as those of us who are rich it matters what we do with our wealth that matters how we steward what god -[3530.54 --> 3538.54] has given us because that is a very reflection on what we know from god on what we have received -[3538.54 --> 3545.58] from him on what we believe to be our purposes in the world as his disciples -[3548.30 --> 3556.86] finally the unbelieving rich are judged for their selling out to selfishness verse 4 says look the wages -[3556.86 --> 3562.30] you have failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you the cries of the -[3562.30 --> 3571.26] harvesters have reached the ears of the lord almighty now when i say that james writes this to expose -[3571.26 --> 3577.74] those who sell out to selfishness what i mean by that is those who have put themselves first -[3577.74 --> 3586.94] over and sometimes against those who work for them right this is really a testimony of justice or injustice -[3588.14 --> 3601.58] now this is the one this one is for those who pay wages right what you pay your employees is a testimony of justice or a testimony of injustice -[3601.58 --> 3610.86] right the unbelieving rich that james is exposing were sellouts to selfishness and though we as christians need to do something better -[3612.54 --> 3615.18] and let me be really really clear again here okay -[3615.90 --> 3623.82] i'm not trying to make a political comment about a living wage i'm not trying to enter into that discussion about a minimum wage and what it should be and who it should apply to -[3624.14 --> 3631.02] i don't even want to have that conversation right here and now even though i have very strong opinions on it about how far the government should exercise its authority in making those decisions -[3631.02 --> 3642.62] decisions on behalf of society i'm talking to you as christian citizens as individual believers i'm talking to us as a church of jesus christ -[3644.30 --> 3648.62] specifically i'm talking to you christian employers -[3650.46 --> 3659.02] christian business owners ceos and cfos managers people who are in charge of other people what you decide to pay -[3659.02 --> 3669.18] your people is a testimony of justice or it's a story of injustice and as christians you are called to a higher -[3669.74 --> 3677.58] standard your wage programs should be something that your employees will boast about your employees should -[3677.58 --> 3686.70] tell stories of your generosity you should be the ceo of charity that's the the the name of the second title of the sermon you might see it on the screen there -[3686.70 --> 3693.50] right the ceo of c that's what it should be for you ceo of charity chief executive officer of charity that's -[3693.50 --> 3701.02] who you should be as a christian business person would it be that christian bosses had that reputation -[3701.02 --> 3704.70] would it be that there were more fred weenings and nick van der heides in our world today -[3706.70 --> 3713.26] let me be frank again i'm being cautious as i enter into the discussion our churches should be the same -[3713.26 --> 3719.58] right churches are employers too and again let me be clear don't hear what i'm not saying i'm not -[3719.58 --> 3724.78] advocating for a raise for myself right i really believe that you all pay me really really well and -[3724.78 --> 3729.98] generously and i am so grateful for that and i will boast in the lord about your generosity towards me -[3730.86 --> 3736.14] but more than just wages and more than just for me as lead pastor but for all the staff for all the -[3736.14 --> 3742.14] volunteers and the people who lead here i really believe that the church needs to be an example of what -[3742.14 --> 3749.26] the wisdom for working looks like in this we need to take care of our people in the church and in -[3749.26 --> 3756.14] your businesses in salary we should be generous in flexibility and understanding we should be liberal and -[3756.14 --> 3767.10] in caring and support we should be lavish we need to be paradigmatic examples in all of this together -[3767.10 --> 3776.70] instead of selling out to selfishness we ought to be charitable with our wealth and our wages the ceo -[3777.34 --> 3788.62] of c that's our title in a world that stockpiles for prideful gain tell a better story by being generous -[3788.62 --> 3796.14] with your resources in a world that that squanders riches on missed place religious affections tell a -[3796.14 --> 3802.62] better story by being stewardly and gracious and in a world that has sold out to selfishness tell a -[3802.62 --> 3813.34] better story of charity and justice tell that story with your life and you will be telling the gospel it is -[3813.34 --> 3820.38] our job to tell the gospel amen amen amen let's pray -[3825.90 --> 3835.34] lord god make us the kinds of people who reflect your love make us the kinds of people who tasting and -[3835.34 --> 3841.18] are good and seeing your goodness to us are good to all those around us and as we think about what it -[3841.18 --> 3848.94] means to be a christian worker as we think about what it means to be a christian boss may we specifically -[3849.82 --> 3855.42] reveal your grace may we be generous -[3855.42 --> 3868.54] may we be stewardly may we be charitable may our lives tell the story of your work in the world -[3870.86 --> 3875.66] and in doing so lord god may we reveal your kingdom come and your kingdom coming -[3875.66 --> 3881.66] we know that our labors in the lord are not in vain -[3883.90 --> 3891.10] we know that the harvest is plentiful and the workers are few so make us workers for your kingdom -[3891.74 --> 3903.66] in jesus name we pray amen -[3905.66 --> 3910.06] take my life -[3910.06 --> 3917.50] and let it be consecrated lord to thee -[3918.06 --> 3922.78] take my moments and my days -[3922.78 --> 3927.90] let them flow in endless praise -[3927.90 --> 3931.90] let them flow in endless praise -[3931.90 --> 3938.30] take my hands and let them move -[3938.30 --> 3942.30] and the impulse of thy love -[3942.30 --> 3946.30] take my feet and let them be -[3946.30 --> 3950.78] and let them build -[3950.78 --> 3953.74] and be -[3956.14 --> 3958.54] swift and beautiful for thee -[3958.54 --> 3964.92] Take my voice and let me sing -[3964.92 --> 3969.78] Always only for my King -[3969.78 --> 3975.10] Take my lips and let them be -[3975.10 --> 3980.10] Filled with messages from Thee -[3980.10 --> 3985.78] Filled with messages from Thee -[3985.78 --> 3991.56] Take my silver and my gold -[3991.56 --> 3996.38] Not a mite would I withhold -[3996.38 --> 4002.08] Take my intellect and use -[4002.08 --> 4007.32] Every power as Thou shalt choose -[4007.32 --> 4012.66] Every power as Thou shalt choose -[4012.66 --> 4018.44] Take my will and make it Thine -[4018.44 --> 4023.44] It shall be no longer mine -[4023.44 --> 4029.54] Take my heart, it is Thy own -[4029.54 --> 4034.32] It shall be Thy royal throne -[4034.32 --> 4040.10] It shall be Thy royal throne -[4040.10 --> 4046.20] Take my love, my Lord, I pour -[4046.20 --> 4051.44] At Thy Phoenix treasure store -[4051.44 --> 4056.10] Take myself and I will be -[4056.10 --> 4062.08] Ever only all for Thee -[4062.08 --> 4068.88] Ever only all for Thee -[4068.88 --> 4084.66] As we go this morning, we go into this week as God's witness to the world and God promises to go with us. -[4084.66 --> 4095.48] Before you receive the blessing, just a reminder, in half an hour or so we will be having Zoom coffee and also you will have opportunity to do the confirmation vote for office bearers here. -[4095.48 --> 4099.78] And so please take both of those opportunities as they come to you. -[4100.12 --> 4102.20] Receive the blessing of our God. -[4104.26 --> 4106.02] May God go before you to lead you. -[4106.74 --> 4109.12] May God go behind you to guard you. -[4109.74 --> 4111.68] May God go beneath you to support you. -[4112.00 --> 4114.48] May God go beside you to befriend you. -[4114.80 --> 4116.92] Do not be afraid. -[4117.62 --> 4119.64] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[4119.78 --> 4121.82] Do not be afraid. -[4121.82 --> 4123.26] Go. -[4124.26 --> 4125.10] In peace. -[4125.92 --> 4128.32] To love and serve the Lord. -[4129.58 --> 4130.12] Amen. -[4151.82 --> 4161.58] Blessing and honor, glory and power, be unto the Ancient of Days. -[4161.58 --> 4170.46] From every nation, all of creation, bow before the Ancient of Days. -[4170.46 --> 4176.60] Every tongue in heaven and earth shall declare your glory. -[4176.60 --> 4179.46] Every knee shall bow at your throne. -[4179.80 --> 4184.46] In worship you will be exalted, O God. -[4184.90 --> 4191.60] And your kingdom shall not pass away, O Ancient of Days. -[4191.60 --> 4193.18] ry Lord, the writer, righteous oh you've ever played a played lamb. -[4193.22 --> 4195.00] That was lukewarm, I've learned that you will condemn you for every time. -[4195.00 --> 4195.24] Be unto the Angel of Days. -[4195.24 --> 4195.30] toys by do not step away, or hostedpusrenature or willingness to support you. -[4195.30 --> 4196.42] Do not housewife what do you seek to do. -[4196.42 --> 4197.16] EST SPEAKER -[4197.16 --> 4205.40] honor glory and power be unto the ancient of days -[4205.40 --> 4210.60] from every nation all of creation -[4210.60 --> 4215.40] thou before the ancient of days -[4215.40 --> 4223.64] every tongue in heaven and earth shall declare your glory every knee shall bow at your throne -[4223.64 --> 4233.56] in worship you will be exalted oh god and your kingdom shall not pass away -[4233.56 --> 4237.64] oh ancient of days -[4239.56 --> 4249.32] your kingdom shall reign over all the earth sing unto the ancient of days -[4249.32 --> 4259.16] for none can compare to your matchless word sing unto the ancient of days -[4259.16 --> 4267.24] your kingdom shall reign over all the earth sing unto the ancient of days -[4267.24 --> 4277.08] for none can compare to your matchless word sing unto the ancient of days -[4278.92 --> 4287.16] every tongue in heaven and earth shall declare your glory every knee shall bow and shall grow -[4287.16 --> 4297.08] in worship you will be exalted oh god and your kingdom shall not pass away -[4297.08 --> 4299.08] oh -[4299.08 --> 4313.08] me -[4313.08 --> 4328.20] Water you turned into wine -[4328.20 --> 4332.74] Open the eyes of the blind -[4332.74 --> 4335.74] There's no one like you -[4335.74 --> 4340.62] None like you -[4343.08 --> 4346.36] Into the darkness you shine -[4346.36 --> 4351.16] Out of the ashes we rise -[4351.16 --> 4354.08] There's no one like you -[4354.08 --> 4359.74] None like you -[4359.74 --> 4363.56] Our God is greater -[4363.56 --> 4365.90] Our God is stronger -[4365.90 --> 4370.64] God you are higher than any other -[4370.64 --> 4373.12] Our God is healer -[4373.12 --> 4375.00] Awesome in power -[4375.00 --> 4376.42] Our God -[4376.42 --> 4378.92] Our God -[4378.92 --> 4392.14] Into the darkness you shine -[4392.14 --> 4396.88] Out of the ashes we rise -[4396.88 --> 4400.22] There's no one like you -[4400.22 --> 4404.42] None like you -[4404.42 --> 4409.28] Our God is greater -[4409.28 --> 4411.56] Our God is stronger -[4411.56 --> 4416.14] God you are higher than any other -[4416.14 --> 4417.54] Our God -[4417.54 --> 4418.14] Our God is healer -[4418.14 --> 4418.82] Our God is healer -[4418.82 --> 4420.14] Awesome in power -[4420.14 --> 4421.42] Our God -[4421.42 --> 4422.42] Our God -[4422.42 --> 4424.42] Our God -[4424.42 --> 4427.14] Our God is greater -[4427.14 --> 4429.14] Our God is stronger -[4429.14 --> 4434.14] God you are higher than any other -[4434.14 --> 4436.14] Our God is healer -[4436.14 --> 4438.14] Awesome in power -[4438.14 --> 4439.14] Our God -[4439.14 --> 4440.14] Our God -[4440.14 --> 4441.82] Our God -[4441.82 --> 4442.20] Our God -[4442.20 --> 4442.66] Our God -[4442.66 --> 4464.96] And if our God is for us -[4464.96 --> 4467.20] Then who could ever stop us -[4467.20 --> 4472.04] And if I got us with us, then what could stand against us? -[4472.04 --> 4476.30] And if I got us for us, then who could ever stop us? -[4476.60 --> 4483.02] And if I got us with us, then what could stand against us? -[4487.66 --> 4493.84] Then what could stand against us? -[4497.20 --> 4503.12] I've got us greater, I've got us stronger -[4503.12 --> 4507.76] God, you are higher than any other -[4507.76 --> 4512.10] I've got us healer, awesome and powerful -[4512.10 --> 4515.70] I've got, I've got -[4515.70 --> 4521.42] I've got us greater, I've got us stronger -[4521.42 --> 4525.96] God, you are higher than any other -[4525.96 --> 4530.38] I've got us healer, awesome and power -[4530.38 --> 4534.04] I've got, I've got -[4534.04 --> 4540.34] And if I got us for us, then who could ever stop us? -[4540.60 --> 4545.22] And if I got us with us, then what could stand against us? -[4545.22 --> 4549.48] And if I got us for us, then who could ever stop us? -[4549.48 --> 4555.36] And if I got us better, then what could stand against? -[4561.16 --> 4563.56] What could stand against? -[4563.56 --> 4567.72] What could stand against? -[4567.72 --> 4569.70] What could stand against? -[4569.70 --> 4588.96] This is just a diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 21, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 21, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index fb9e0601ed29177cf74e0745c5f138692d60bbc7..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 21, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,98 +0,0 @@ -• Profession of faith requirements -• Pastor's class requirement for profession of faith -• Young adults event at Willoughby on Friday night -• Children's worship time sign-up sheet in the back -• Summer teaching opportunities for preschool-aged kids -• Announcements for kids' camp and youth camp, with sign-up information -• Introduction by Kevin Lobert, youth pastor -• Greeting from Revelation 1 -• Call to worship from 1 Chronicles 29 -• Praise and worship song, "Blessed Be Your Name" -• Worship and praise to God with all one's heart -• Offering oneself completely to God -• Bearing fruit for God through living a life dedicated to Him -• Being filled with God's presence and power to bear fruit -• Trusting in God and being rooted in His word -• Receiving God's holy word and allowing it to shape and fashion us into His likeness -• Holy reverence and true humility -• Praying for God to test thoughts and attitudes in light of His purity -• Requesting faith, vision, and understanding of God's love and authority -• Seeking truth and power through God's words -• Inviting God to speak and renew the mind -• Expressing gratitude for God's plans and promises -• Praising God's glory and majesty -• Restoring joy of salvation and returning to a place of presence with God -• Committing life as an altar to God, seeking forgiveness, and acknowledging need -• Praising God's greatness and majesty -• Worship service with praise and prayer -• Second collection for Wagner Hills, a faith-based recovery center -• Announcement of new office bearers for the church community through drawing lots -• Recognition of retiring office bearers, Emo Smith and Glenn Nort -• Installation of new deacon, Mike Prince, and elder, Paul Kuhl and Stephen Verkike -• Discussion about fruits and their differences (e.g., colors, shapes, taste) -• Identification of common characteristics among the mentioned fruits (e.g., being healthy, being fruits) -• Introduction to the concept of "fruits of the Spirit" in the Bible -• Explanation that the fruits of the Spirit are different but share a common theme of showing God's love -• The congregation prays for the leaders and new council members to be guided by God. -• They pray for those preparing to publicly profess their faith, as well as those struggling with faith and doubts. -• The congregation asks for healing for various health concerns within the community. -• They pray for individuals who are ill or undergoing medical procedures, including Rose Vita, Doreen, Rika, and Sai. -• The congregation prays for others dealing with injuries, aging parents, and mental health issues. -• They ask God to use them as a people to call the world back to Him in response to current global challenges. -• Review of Romans chapter 6, where Paul questions whether we can continue to sin because of Jesus' sacrifice -• Review of Romans 7:1-6, which answers the question by using an example of a married woman being released from her husband's law upon his death -• Explanation that through Christ's death, believers died to the law and are now free to serve God in the Spirit, not under the written code -• Discussion of the four-part pattern in Romans 6-7: belonging to sin, dying to sin through Jesus' death, new birth/union with Christ, and bearing fruit for God -• Belonging to God or one another is a key concept in the passage -• Marital intimacy is used as an example of the relationship between Christ and believers -• The relationship with Christ changes natural inclinations from death and sin to life and obedience -• When united with Christ, lives must bear His fruit -• The law has authority over only those who are alive, setting the table for further discussion in the passage -• Death frees you from the law of marriage and remarriage is allowed -• Marital intimacy is only permissible within a valid marriage -• Only death can break the bonds of marriage -• The law does not apply to the dead, so it cannot bind them in marriage or sin -• Humanity is bound to sin and death due to Adam's fall -• The law reveals humanity's sinful nature and bondage to sin -• Death is necessary to break the bonds of the law and sin, allowing for freedom from its condemnation -• The law itself is not bad, but rather it highlights the need for a Savior who can fulfill its requirements and bring life -• Humanity's union with Christ through death and resurrection provides the power to bear fruit for God and break free from the law's bondage -• Jesus' life and death -• Breaking the law of sin and death -• Being married to Christ as the bride of Christ -• Dying to the law in Jesus' death -• Securing release from union to the law -• Becoming a Christian as a complete change in relationships and allegiances -• The idea that our loss of freedom in marriage is a joy, not a burden -• How Christ's love and intimacy change us, making our entire life affected by His desires and wishes -• The concept that God's calling on our lives goes beyond specific decisions or actions, but is about the way we live and the fruit we bear for Him -• Breaking free from sin, death, and destruction through union with Christ and being called to live for Jesus and bear His fruit -• Obedience to Christ and bearing fruit for God as a joyful response to our union with Him, rather than trying to earn salvation by obeying the law. -• The question of how far is too far in relationships is often framed from a legalistic perspective -• This approach focuses on avoiding sin by not breaking rules, rather than pursuing Christ -• Reframing the question to prioritize pursuit of Christ in relationships provides better guidance -• This perspective should be applied not only to romantic relationships but to all areas of life -• Instead of asking "how far can I go," ask "am I honoring Christ" or "how close am I to Christ" -• Obedience to the law is not a sinometer, but rather a means of pursuing obedience to God's will -• Demonstrating love for Jesus and being his disciples -• Reframing obedience to the law to reflect a deeper love for Christ -• Pursuing things that Jesus loves as a result of loving Him -• Learning to love and pursue what others love, illustrated through personal anecdotes -• Applying this principle to relationships with family, friends, and even activities like reading and watching movies -• The importance of growing in the fruits of the spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control) -• How our marriage to Christ changes everything about how we live and makes us want to please Him -• The ability to choose which virtues to grow in, rather than succumbing to sin -• The idea that through Christ's death and resurrection, we have died and been resurrected into a new life where we can pursue our love for Jesus and bear fruit -• The difference between serving the law of sin and serving in the new way of the Spirit -• Intimacy with Christ and living according to the Spirit -• Gratitude for Jesus' death and resurrection and its effects on believers -• The law as a guide to righteousness, not a checklist of sins -• Living out the fruits of the Spirit in daily life -• Showing God's love to others and witnessing to His greatness -• Worshiping and following the Servant King, Christ -• Serving and honoring Christ through daily offerings of worship -• Following the speaker as they conclude -• Bringing lives as a daily offering to the Servant King -• Receiving God's parting blessing and prayer support -• Staying for refreshments and fellowship -• God's blessings and peace being imparted \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 21, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 21, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 1083685423903d545af7403a21746477badb63d1..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 21, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1829 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.00] . -[30.00 --> 32.00] . -[60.00 --> 62.00] . -[90.00 --> 92.00] . -[92.00 --> 94.00] . -[94.00 --> 96.00] . -[96.00 --> 98.00] . -[98.00 --> 100.00] . -[100.00 --> 102.00] . -[102.00 --> 104.00] . -[104.00 --> 106.00] . -[106.00 --> 108.00] . -[108.00 --> 110.00] . -[110.00 --> 112.00] . 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. -[285.98 --> 287.18] That starts next weekend. -[287.64 --> 289.60] Now, if you want to do profession of faith, -[290.02 --> 292.32] you have to take pastor's class ahead of that. -[292.66 --> 295.36] But you don't have to do profession of faith -[295.36 --> 296.88] if you take pastor's class. -[296.98 --> 297.70] Does that make sense? -[298.12 --> 299.86] So if you're planning on doing profession of faith, -[300.38 --> 302.00] please come take pastor's class. -[302.16 --> 304.16] But if you just want to take pastor's class, -[304.28 --> 305.16] that's more than allowed. -[305.24 --> 307.54] You don't have to do profession of faith afterwards. -[308.20 --> 309.54] Young adults out there, -[309.54 --> 312.50] this coming Friday, there is a young adults event. -[312.72 --> 313.98] They are at Willoughby. -[314.32 --> 315.76] A number of churches are getting together, -[315.76 --> 317.06] and they're going to do a trivia night, -[317.52 --> 319.56] a little bit of a pub-style trivia night. -[319.60 --> 320.50] It should be pretty fun. -[321.10 --> 323.26] I encourage you to come out because you get to see me. -[323.48 --> 324.28] I get to host. -[324.54 --> 325.48] It's going to be very fun. -[326.14 --> 328.52] So especially if you're in university and home for the summer, -[328.64 --> 329.76] come on out, show off your knowledge, -[330.06 --> 330.94] put a team together, -[331.26 --> 332.88] and come on out to Willoughby Friday night. -[333.16 --> 334.44] More details from Josh. -[334.70 --> 336.96] You can chat with him when he gets back from California. -[338.08 --> 340.90] Also, there are some sign-ups coming out -[340.90 --> 341.96] that you need to know about. -[341.96 --> 347.18] But first of all, taped to the children's sign-up booth in the back there, -[347.24 --> 352.70] there is a sign-up sheet for those who are able to teach children's worship time in the summer. -[352.82 --> 356.78] So we're looking for teachers and helpers to sign up to teach every week, -[357.22 --> 360.20] to teach the preschool-aged kids throughout the summer. -[360.26 --> 361.32] If that's something you're able to do, -[361.38 --> 363.14] please talk to Amy or sign up in the back. -[363.22 --> 367.08] There's also going to be a link in the bulletin coming out this week as well, -[367.08 --> 367.88] so you can sign up there. -[368.32 --> 370.36] Also, kids' camp is happening once again. -[370.64 --> 373.22] There's some information about the bulletin about that. -[373.30 --> 376.12] And sign-up is coming out later this week about kids' camp. -[376.22 --> 378.32] That will be happening July 10 to 14. -[378.74 --> 381.74] And finally, youth camp, we are doing that again at the end of July, -[381.86 --> 384.74] or end of June, beginning of July, June 30 to July 2. -[385.06 --> 385.78] Sign up for that. -[385.84 --> 387.12] Youth is coming out this week as well. -[387.22 --> 388.54] So be ready for that. -[389.02 --> 390.08] For those of you who don't know me, -[390.18 --> 391.26] I'm Kevin Lobert. -[391.30 --> 392.80] I'm the youth pastor here at this church. -[393.00 --> 394.26] Our lead pastor, Chris, -[394.26 --> 395.82] and our young adult guy, Josh, -[395.90 --> 397.98] they're actually gallivanting in L.A. right now. -[398.38 --> 400.90] They have a conference that they've been attending all weekend. -[401.10 --> 402.52] So they're enjoying the sun, -[402.60 --> 404.80] but joke's on them, we're enjoying the sun as well. -[404.92 --> 406.80] So it is good to be with you this morning. -[407.24 --> 408.72] I'm going to invite you all to stand -[408.72 --> 412.02] and hear God's blessing this morning. -[414.28 --> 417.60] God's greeting comes to us from Revelation 1, -[417.60 --> 418.60] where he says, -[419.16 --> 420.56] Grace and peace to you, -[420.84 --> 423.98] from him who is and who was and who is to come, -[424.26 --> 427.04] and from the seven spirits that are before his throne, -[427.34 --> 428.62] and from Jesus Christ, -[428.96 --> 430.40] who is the faithful witness, -[430.82 --> 432.20] the firstborn of the dead, -[432.50 --> 435.28] and the ruler of the kings of the earth. -[436.08 --> 436.40] Amen. -[436.58 --> 437.64] As God has greeted us this morning, -[437.74 --> 439.60] please take a moment to greet those around you. -[439.60 --> 444.90] Good morning. -[444.90 --> 446.86] Good morning. -[446.96 --> 447.36] Good morning. -[447.90 --> 450.52] That was awkward. -[452.66 --> 454.26] Good morning. -[454.26 --> 455.42] Good morning. -[455.48 --> 456.60] Good morning. -[456.88 --> 459.74] Good morning. -[460.80 --> 461.78] Good morning. -[461.78 --> 464.40] Good morning. -[464.40 --> 476.26] Our call to worship this morning comes from 1 Chronicles 29, verses 10 through 13. -[477.00 --> 483.36] Praise be to you, Lord, the God of our Father Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. -[484.26 --> 491.08] Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor -[491.08 --> 494.08] for everything in heaven and earth is yours. -[495.40 --> 497.60] Yours, Lord, is the kingdom. -[498.34 --> 501.12] You are exalted as head over all. -[502.04 --> 504.38] Wealth and honor come from you. -[505.16 --> 507.44] You are the ruler of all things. -[508.32 --> 513.28] In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. -[514.18 --> 518.94] Now, our God, we give you thanks and praise your glorious name. -[524.40 --> 547.14] Blessed be your name in the land that is plentiful, where your streams of abundance flow. -[547.14 --> 549.14] Blessed be your name. -[549.14 --> 550.24] Blessed be your name. -[550.24 --> 555.34] Blessed be your name. -[555.34 --> 559.38] When I'm found in a desert place. -[559.38 --> 562.80] Though I walk through the wilderness. -[563.80 --> 566.06] Blessed be your name. -[566.06 --> 576.12] Every blessing you pour out, I'll turn back to praise. -[576.12 --> 582.80] When the darkness closes in, Lord, still I will say, -[582.80 --> 583.80] Blessed be your name. -[583.80 --> 586.76] Blessed be the name of the Lord. -[586.76 --> 590.72] Blessed be your name. -[590.72 --> 594.74] Blessed be the name of the Lord. -[594.74 --> 600.10] Blessed be your glorious name. -[600.10 --> 601.10] Blessed be your name. -[601.10 --> 602.10] Blessed be your name. -[602.10 --> 605.10] Blessed be your name. -[605.10 --> 609.10] When the sun's shining down on me. -[609.10 --> 613.10] When the world's all as it should be. -[613.10 --> 615.10] Blessed be your name. -[615.10 --> 618.10] Blessed be your name. -[618.10 --> 626.52] 스트 CROW原 -[630.02 --> 630.88] Blessed be your name. -[630.88 --> 640.10] Once your offerings of coming along again, please stand 200,000 and lift up the bridge to the bottom of darkness for such power Those blessings have left to be in the U. -[640.10 --> 648.52] praise when the darkness closes in Lord still I will say -[648.52 --> 656.62] blessed be the name of the Lord blessed be your name -[656.62 --> 665.78] blessed be the name of the Lord blessed be your glorious name -[665.78 --> 679.30] you give and take away you give and take away my heart will choose to say -[679.30 --> 694.42] the blessed be your name you give and take away you give and take away my heart will choose to say -[694.42 --> 709.06] blessed be your name blessed be the name of the Lord blessed be your name -[709.06 --> 717.06] blessed be the name of the Lord blessed be your glorious name -[717.06 --> 725.06] blessed be the name of the Lord blessed be your name -[725.06 --> 735.06] blessed be the name of the Lord blessed be your glorious name -[735.06 --> 744.36] wonderful Lord blessed be your name -[744.36 --> 753.62] blessed be her name -[753.62 --> 759.06] blessed be the name of the Lord blessed be your name -[759.06 --> 776.98] This is my desire -[776.98 --> 784.74] To honor you -[784.74 --> 790.74] Lord, with all my heart -[791.56 --> 794.74] I worship you -[794.74 --> 806.74] All I have within me -[806.74 --> 813.74] I give you praise -[813.74 --> 818.74] All that I adore -[818.74 --> 823.74] Is in you -[823.74 --> 832.74] Lord, I give you my heart -[832.74 --> 836.74] I give you my soul -[836.74 --> 842.74] I live for you alone -[842.74 --> 846.74] Every breath that I take -[846.74 --> 850.74] Every moment I'm awake -[850.74 --> 856.74] But have your way in me -[856.74 --> 868.74] This is my desire -[868.74 --> 874.74] To honor you -[874.74 --> 881.74] Lord, with all my heart -[881.74 --> 884.74] I worship you -[884.74 --> 896.74] All I have within me -[896.74 --> 901.74] I give you praise -[901.74 --> 908.74] All that I adore -[908.74 --> 911.74] Is in you -[911.74 --> 921.74] Lord, I give you my heart -[921.74 --> 923.74] I give you my soul -[923.74 --> 925.74] I give you my soul -[925.74 --> 933.74] I live for you alone -[933.74 --> 935.74] Every breath that I take -[935.74 --> 940.74] Every moment I'm awake -[940.74 --> 942.74] Lord, have your way in me -[942.74 --> 946.74] Lord, I give you my heart -[946.74 --> 948.74] Lord, I give you my heart -[948.74 --> 950.74] I give you my heart -[950.74 --> 952.74] I give you my soul -[952.74 --> 954.74] I give you my soul -[954.74 --> 956.74] Lord, I live for you alone -[956.74 --> 960.74] I live for you alone -[960.74 --> 962.74] Every breath that I take -[962.74 --> 964.74] Every breath that I take -[964.74 --> 966.74] Every moment I'm awake -[966.74 --> 970.74] Lord, have your way in me -[970.74 --> 987.74] Have your way in me -[987.74 --> 994.74] You may have a seat -[994.74 --> 999.74] Please join me in prayer -[999.74 --> 1001.74] Lord Jesus, you chose us -[1001.74 --> 1002.74] And appointed us to go -[1002.74 --> 1003.74] And bear fruit -[1003.74 --> 1005.74] Fruit that will last -[1005.74 --> 1007.74] You are the gardener -[1007.74 --> 1009.74] You prune every branch -[1009.74 --> 1010.74] That bears fruit -[1010.74 --> 1012.74] So it will be even more fruitful -[1012.74 --> 1015.74] We desire to be filled -[1015.74 --> 1016.74] To all your fullness -[1016.74 --> 1018.74] So that we can bear fruit -[1018.74 --> 1019.74] In your name -[1019.74 --> 1021.74] Help us, Lord -[1021.74 --> 1023.74] When we focus on the world -[1023.74 --> 1024.74] And ignore you -[1024.74 --> 1026.74] We confess that -[1026.74 --> 1027.74] We do not always want -[1027.74 --> 1028.74] To be your witnesses -[1028.74 --> 1031.74] It's much easier to blend in -[1031.74 --> 1034.74] But you call us to more -[1034.74 --> 1036.74] Father, we thank you -[1036.74 --> 1038.74] That we are good ground -[1038.74 --> 1040.74] That we hear your word -[1040.74 --> 1041.74] And understand it -[1041.74 --> 1042.74] And that the word -[1042.74 --> 1044.74] Bears fruit in our lives -[1044.74 --> 1046.74] Sometimes a hundredfold -[1046.74 --> 1047.74] Sometimes sixty -[1047.74 --> 1049.74] Sometimes thirty -[1049.74 --> 1051.74] We are like a tree -[1051.74 --> 1052.74] We are like a tree -[1052.74 --> 1054.74] Planted by the rivers of water -[1054.74 --> 1055.74] That bring forth fruit -[1055.74 --> 1056.74] In its season -[1056.74 --> 1058.74] Thank you for filling us -[1058.74 --> 1060.74] With the knowledge of your will -[1060.74 --> 1061.74] And all wisdom -[1061.74 --> 1063.74] And spiritual understanding -[1063.74 --> 1066.74] That we may walk worthy of you, Lord -[1066.74 --> 1069.74] Being fruitful in every good work -[1069.74 --> 1072.74] And increasing in the knowledge of you -[1072.74 --> 1074.74] Amen -[1074.74 --> 1078.74] But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord -[1078.74 --> 1082.74] Whose confidence is in him -[1082.74 --> 1085.74] They will be like a tree planted by the water -[1085.74 --> 1088.74] That sends out its root by the stream -[1088.74 --> 1092.74] It does not fear when heat comes -[1092.74 --> 1095.74] Its leaves are always green -[1095.74 --> 1098.74] It has no worries in a year of drought -[1098.74 --> 1101.74] And it never fails to bear fruit -[1101.74 --> 1105.74] Please stand with us as we sing -[1105.74 --> 1106.74] Speak, O Lord -[1106.74 --> 1111.74] Speak, O Lord -[1111.74 --> 1114.74] Speak, O Lord -[1114.74 --> 1118.74] As we come to you -[1118.74 --> 1122.74] To receive the food -[1122.74 --> 1126.74] Of your holy word -[1126.74 --> 1130.74] Take your truth -[1130.74 --> 1134.74] Plant it deep in us -[1134.74 --> 1138.74] Shape and fashion us -[1138.74 --> 1142.74] In your likeness -[1142.74 --> 1146.74] That the light of Christ -[1146.74 --> 1150.74] Might be seen today -[1150.74 --> 1154.74] In our acts of love -[1154.74 --> 1158.74] And our deeds of faith -[1158.74 --> 1161.74] Speak, O Lord -[1161.74 --> 1164.74] And fulfill in us -[1164.74 --> 1168.74] All your purposes -[1168.74 --> 1172.74] For your glory -[1172.74 --> 1184.74] Teach us, Lord -[1184.74 --> 1188.74] Lord, full obedience -[1188.74 --> 1190.74] Holy reverence -[1190.74 --> 1194.74] True humility -[1194.74 --> 1199.74] Test our thoughts -[1199.74 --> 1202.74] And our attitudes -[1202.74 --> 1206.74] In all radiance -[1206.74 --> 1210.74] Of your purity -[1210.74 --> 1212.74] Cause our faith -[1212.74 --> 1214.74] Cause our faith to rise -[1214.74 --> 1217.74] Cause our eyes to see -[1217.74 --> 1221.74] Your majestic love -[1221.74 --> 1224.74] And authority -[1224.74 --> 1228.74] Words of power -[1228.74 --> 1230.74] Words of power -[1230.74 --> 1232.74] That can never fail -[1232.74 --> 1236.74] Let the truth prevail -[1236.74 --> 1240.74] Over yon believe -[1240.74 --> 1252.74] Speak, O Lord -[1252.74 --> 1253.74] Speak, O Lord -[1253.74 --> 1256.74] And renew our minds -[1256.74 --> 1260.74] Help us grasp the heights -[1260.74 --> 1264.74] Of your plans for us -[1264.74 --> 1266.74] True sun changed -[1266.74 --> 1270.74] From the dawn of time -[1270.74 --> 1272.74] That will echo down -[1272.74 --> 1274.74] That will echo down -[1274.74 --> 1276.74] Through eternity -[1276.74 --> 1280.74] And by grace -[1280.74 --> 1282.74] We'll stand -[1282.74 --> 1284.74] On your promises -[1284.74 --> 1286.74] And by faith -[1286.74 --> 1288.74] We'll walk -[1288.74 --> 1290.74] As you walk with us -[1290.74 --> 1292.74] Speak, O Lord -[1292.74 --> 1294.74] As you walk with us -[1294.74 --> 1297.74] Speak, O Lord -[1297.74 --> 1301.74] Till your church is built -[1301.74 --> 1305.74] And the earth is filled -[1305.74 --> 1307.74] With your glory -[1307.74 --> 1309.74] Glory -[1309.74 --> 1317.74] This next song -[1317.74 --> 1319.74] We've actually only done once before -[1319.74 --> 1321.74] So if you don't know it -[1321.74 --> 1322.74] Please just take some time -[1322.74 --> 1324.74] To listen along -[1324.74 --> 1325.74] It has a medley to it -[1325.74 --> 1326.74] We have a song you will know -[1326.74 --> 1328.74] So join us when you're comfortable -[1337.74 --> 1356.74] Restore in me the joy of my salvation -[1356.74 --> 1366.74] Take me back to where it all began -[1366.74 --> 1376.74] Where all I ever wanted was your presence -[1376.74 --> 1386.74] How I longed to be there once again -[1386.74 --> 1391.74] Light a fire that the world can't burn out -[1391.74 --> 1393.74] Fan the flame -[1393.74 --> 1398.74] Till nothing between us remains -[1398.74 --> 1404.74] My life is an altar to you -[1404.74 --> 1407.74] Breathe again -[1407.74 --> 1412.74] On the ambers that burn in my heart -[1412.74 --> 1417.74] A love taken back to the start -[1417.74 --> 1418.74] My life is an altar to you -[1418.74 --> 1422.74] My life is an altar to you -[1422.74 --> 1432.74] Renew in me a pure and willing spirit -[1432.74 --> 1436.74] Take me back to where it all began -[1436.74 --> 1443.74] Take me back to where it all began -[1443.74 --> 1451.74] Before it all became so complicated -[1451.74 --> 1452.74] How I longed to be there once again -[1452.74 --> 1458.74] How I longed to be there once again -[1458.74 --> 1468.74] Light a fire that the world can't burn out -[1468.74 --> 1469.74] Fan the flame -[1469.74 --> 1474.74] Till nothing between us remains -[1474.74 --> 1475.74] My life is an altar to you -[1475.74 --> 1479.74] My life is an altar to you -[1479.74 --> 1480.74] God, I'm sorry -[1480.74 --> 1482.74] I'm sorry -[1482.74 --> 1484.74] Please forgive me -[1484.74 --> 1485.74] For when I've gone -[1485.74 --> 1487.74] On the ambers that burn in my heart -[1487.74 --> 1489.74] On the ambers that burn in my heart -[1489.74 --> 1494.74] A love taken back to the start -[1494.74 --> 1495.74] My life is an altar to you -[1495.74 --> 1496.74] My life is an altar to you -[1496.74 --> 1501.74] My life is an altar to you -[1501.74 --> 1505.74] God, I'm sorry -[1505.74 --> 1511.74] Please forgive me -[1511.74 --> 1516.74] For when I've gone cold -[1516.74 --> 1517.74] Lord, I need you -[1517.74 --> 1521.74] Lord, I need you -[1521.74 --> 1526.74] How I need you -[1526.74 --> 1531.74] To awake my soul -[1531.74 --> 1533.74] Light a fire -[1533.74 --> 1536.74] That the world can't burn out -[1536.74 --> 1538.74] Fan the flame -[1538.74 --> 1543.74] Till nothing between us remains -[1543.74 --> 1545.74] My life is an altar to you -[1545.74 --> 1548.74] My life is an altar to you -[1548.74 --> 1553.74] My life is an altar to you -[1553.74 --> 1559.74] My life is an altar to you -[1559.74 --> 1562.74] My life is an altar to you -[1562.74 --> 1572.74] All beautifully -[1572.74 --> 1594.50] And all the earth will shout your praise -[1594.50 --> 1599.54] Our hearts will cry, these bones will sing -[1599.54 --> 1605.94] Great are you, Lord -[1605.94 --> 1613.50] And all the earth will shout your praise -[1613.50 --> 1618.48] Our hearts will cry, these bones will sing -[1618.48 --> 1625.04] Great are you, Lord -[1625.04 --> 1632.44] And all the earth will shout your praise -[1632.44 --> 1637.50] Our hearts will cry, these bones will sing -[1637.50 --> 1643.44] Great are you, Lord -[1643.44 --> 1650.84] It's your breath and our loves -[1650.84 --> 1656.24] So we pour out our praise, pour out our praise -[1656.24 --> 1659.84] It's your breath and our loves -[1659.84 --> 1665.24] So we pour out our praise to you only -[1665.24 --> 1669.24] It's your breath and our loves -[1669.24 --> 1675.24] So we pour out our praise, pour out our praise -[1675.24 --> 1679.24] It's your breath and our loves -[1679.24 --> 1686.64] So we pour out our praise to you only -[1686.64 --> 1692.64] God, I'm sorry -[1692.64 --> 1698.04] Please forgive me -[1698.04 --> 1704.04] For when I've gone cold -[1704.04 --> 1707.64] Lord, I need you -[1707.64 --> 1712.64] How I need you -[1712.64 --> 1720.04] To awake my soul -[1720.04 --> 1725.24] You may have a seat -[1725.24 --> 1751.88] Good morning -[1751.88 --> 1755.98] The offerings today are for our budget -[1755.98 --> 1757.88] For our ministry and missions -[1757.88 --> 1760.88] The second collection is for Wagner Hills -[1760.88 --> 1766.78] We are, they are a faith-based recovery center -[1766.78 --> 1768.62] Located in Langley, B.C. -[1768.62 --> 1771.54] Wagner Hills is a working farm -[1771.54 --> 1774.68] Providing a one-year recovery program -[1774.68 --> 1776.38] For both women and men -[1776.38 --> 1779.78] Seeing people through this process -[1779.78 --> 1783.78] With classes, counseling, and rehabilitation -[1783.78 --> 1785.78] Through a work program -[1785.78 --> 1788.78] And a community program -[1788.78 --> 1793.78] We strive to bring healing, growth, and transformation -[1793.78 --> 1795.78] On the road to recovery -[1795.78 --> 1797.58] From recovery -[1797.58 --> 1807.78] peeking -[1807.78 --> 1809.38] Including beverages -[1809.38 --> 1811.78] By supporting produces VSirsiniz -[1811.78 --> 1813.78] Only and a community -[1813.78 --> 1815.78] And a community that teaches us -[1815.78 --> 1818.58] Of whether it's essential -[1818.58 --> 1820.28] Or we achieve enough -[1820.28 --> 1820.78] nen -[1820.78 --> 1821.78] And we think immersive -[1821.78 --> 1822.08] Of fora -[1822.28 --> 1822.78] And we think aha -[1822.78 --> 1839.78] Lord, I want to be a sacrifice. -[1842.52 --> 1847.78] Lord, I want to be pleasing to you. -[1847.78 --> 1862.78] Lord, I want your love to rule my life and be the one that you shine through. -[1862.78 --> 1870.78] Jesus, I give you all. -[1871.78 --> 1879.80] Every part of me cries out your name. -[1880.18 --> 1885.78] Jesus, I give you all. -[1885.78 --> 1892.78] Living and holy. -[1892.78 --> 1894.78] Living and holy. -[1894.78 --> 1896.78] Living and holy. -[1896.78 --> 1900.78] Living and holy for you. -[1900.78 --> 1907.78] Lord, I want to be a sacrifice. -[1907.78 --> 1915.78] Lord, I want to be pleasing to you. -[1915.78 --> 1932.78] Lord, I want your love to rule my life and be the one that you shine through. -[1932.78 --> 1941.78] Jesus, I give you all. -[1941.78 --> 1949.78] Every part of me cries out your name. -[1949.78 --> 1955.78] Jesus, I give you all. -[1955.78 --> 1962.78] Jesus, I give you all. -[1962.78 --> 1967.78] Jesus, I give you all. -[1967.78 --> 1980.78] Jesus, I give you all. -[1980.78 --> 1987.78] Every part of me cries out your name. -[1987.78 --> 1996.78] Jesus, I give you all. -[1996.78 --> 2002.78] Living and holy. -[2002.78 --> 2007.78] Living and holy. -[2007.78 --> 2012.78] Living and holy for you. -[2026.78 --> 2033.06] Good morning, everyone. -[2034.10 --> 2041.64] Last week we had the privilege of affirming the names of people for office bearers for church for this upcoming terms. -[2042.64 --> 2053.66] And today we have a process here in this church where we draw lots and to see who is going to be serving the congregation for the upcoming three-year term. -[2053.66 --> 2058.18] This morning we have the opportunity to draw lots for the office bearers in our church community. -[2058.52 --> 2061.76] We are grateful for the gift of good leaders in our church family. -[2062.76 --> 2069.78] These people have expressed that willingness to serve and our church family has affirmed their gifting to serve. -[2070.42 --> 2074.14] We will begin with the office of deacon and then the office of admin elder. -[2074.78 --> 2076.86] Before we draw lots, shall we pray together? -[2078.14 --> 2083.48] Holy God, you promised to provide leaders for your church to faithfully serve our church family. -[2084.32 --> 2090.42] Work now in the process of drawing lots to raise up from among us the next group of leaders to love and serve your church. -[2091.04 --> 2092.48] In Jesus' name, amen. -[2093.34 --> 2097.72] I'd like to call Emo Smith and Glenn Nort up, please. -[2097.72 --> 2097.80] Thank you. -[2097.80 --> 2118.70] Emo and Glenn Nort are our retiring office bearers, so they got the privilege of pulling the names out of the bag this morning. -[2118.70 --> 2119.62] For Deacon -[2119.62 --> 2125.46] is Mike Prince. -[2125.46 --> 2131.74] And for Elder, Glenn, you've got to pull two out. -[2137.54 --> 2140.68] Paul Kuhl and Stephen Verkike. -[2140.68 --> 2149.18] I don't know if they're here this morning, but if they are, thank you for putting your names forward, -[2149.30 --> 2152.74] and we look forward to working with you over the next few years. -[2152.82 --> 2153.20] See you guys. -[2153.20 --> 2169.42] Steve and Mike and who? -[2169.42 --> 2175.82] Paul, we look forward to discerning together God's will and leading for our church family. -[2176.38 --> 2180.44] To the ones whose names were not selected, we are grateful for your willingness to serve, -[2180.52 --> 2185.24] and we pray that the Lord will provide a different and meaningful opportunity for you to do so in our midst. -[2185.24 --> 2188.78] Again, on behalf of council and the church family, we thank you. -[2189.52 --> 2194.06] Lord willing, we will install these new office bearers next Sunday at church. -[2194.26 --> 2194.72] Thank you. -[2194.72 --> 2206.20] It's time for Kids' Corner, so I'd like to invite any kids that are here to come on up to the front. -[2207.00 --> 2210.52] If you're age three, all the way up to grade four. -[2210.52 --> 2223.94] Welcome up here. -[2224.04 --> 2228.52] I wasn't sure how many kids we'd have, but... -[2228.52 --> 2230.34] All right. -[2230.52 --> 2233.90] So I brought something in my bag here today, -[2234.14 --> 2237.40] and I'm hoping that you guys are going to know what these things are. -[2238.04 --> 2239.00] I'm pretty sure you will. -[2240.52 --> 2241.86] There is a rip. -[2241.92 --> 2242.70] My dog ate it. -[2245.88 --> 2246.42] All right. -[2246.46 --> 2247.44] Here's the first thing. -[2248.04 --> 2248.54] Are you ready? -[2251.26 --> 2251.96] An apple. -[2254.16 --> 2255.46] Do you have apples at your house? -[2255.50 --> 2255.92] That's great. -[2256.00 --> 2256.94] They're a healthy thing to eat. -[2257.02 --> 2257.18] Okay. -[2257.22 --> 2258.04] I got another thing. -[2261.08 --> 2261.74] An orange. -[2261.90 --> 2263.18] You got some oranges at your house, too? -[2264.02 --> 2264.42] Yeah. -[2265.28 --> 2265.80] All right. -[2265.84 --> 2267.06] So we got an apple and orange. -[2267.14 --> 2268.68] What do you think might be next? -[2270.52 --> 2271.48] A grape. -[2271.48 --> 2271.52] A banana. -[2271.52 --> 2272.08] A banana. -[2272.08 --> 2273.52] A banana. -[2273.52 --> 2274.04] A banana. -[2274.04 --> 2274.14] A banana. -[2274.14 --> 2276.14] A banana. -[2276.14 --> 2277.04] A banana. -[2277.04 --> 2278.20] A banana. -[2278.20 --> 2281.26] Oh, that's so great. -[2282.26 --> 2282.68] Okay. -[2282.96 --> 2283.94] I got more. -[2284.78 --> 2286.00] Are you going to guess the next one? -[2286.00 --> 2286.26] A grape. -[2286.26 --> 2288.26] A grape. -[2288.26 --> 2288.88] A grape. -[2293.88 --> 2295.02] It's a lime. -[2295.20 --> 2296.54] It's a lime juice. -[2296.74 --> 2298.34] But it's kind of like a lime, right? -[2299.34 --> 2300.76] Do you have a lime at your house? -[2301.20 --> 2301.72] You do? -[2301.80 --> 2303.08] Oh, I should have asked you to bring one. -[2303.66 --> 2303.96] Okay. -[2304.02 --> 2304.70] We got a lime. -[2304.78 --> 2306.20] Just use a little bit of your imagination. -[2306.44 --> 2307.08] I got one more. -[2307.26 --> 2308.06] It's in a container. -[2310.06 --> 2310.42] Cookies. -[2311.42 --> 2311.90] Cookies? -[2311.90 --> 2311.98] Cookies? -[2311.98 --> 2312.02] Cookies? -[2315.22 --> 2315.66] No. -[2315.82 --> 2316.06] No. -[2316.22 --> 2316.44] No. -[2316.44 --> 2316.50] No. -[2317.28 --> 2318.22] Do you know it? -[2318.22 --> 2318.36] Do you know it? -[2318.36 --> 2318.66] Do you know it? -[2318.66 --> 2318.84] Do you know it? -[2319.92 --> 2320.28] Strawberry. -[2321.04 --> 2321.28] Strawberry. -[2322.22 --> 2323.02] I better put that one. -[2323.06 --> 2324.50] I didn't want that one to get too squished. -[2324.66 --> 2326.46] So can you guys tell me? -[2326.80 --> 2327.88] I'll put that one like that. -[2328.82 --> 2332.58] Can you tell me something that is different about all these fruits? -[2333.22 --> 2333.48] Zoe? -[2333.74 --> 2334.86] They're healthy for you. -[2335.12 --> 2336.32] Well, they're all healthy for you. -[2336.64 --> 2336.88] Yeah. -[2336.98 --> 2337.48] That's true. -[2337.92 --> 2338.88] They're different colors. -[2339.46 --> 2339.70] Ruby? -[2340.56 --> 2341.94] They're different shapes. -[2342.36 --> 2342.64] Julia? -[2342.64 --> 2342.76] Yeah. -[2343.56 --> 2345.70] They taste a little bit different from each other. -[2345.78 --> 2347.98] And what would be the same about all of them? -[2348.06 --> 2349.46] Besides, so Zoe had one idea. -[2349.52 --> 2350.30] They're all healthy. -[2350.82 --> 2350.98] Yeah. -[2351.08 --> 2351.28] Bean. -[2353.36 --> 2354.46] They're all fruits. -[2354.70 --> 2355.06] Exactly. -[2355.36 --> 2356.08] They're all fruits. -[2356.08 --> 2360.82] So today in Children's Worship Time, we are going to talk about fruit that's mentioned -[2360.82 --> 2361.44] in the Bible. -[2361.68 --> 2363.90] And they're called the fruit of the Spirit. -[2365.08 --> 2366.96] And there's different fruits of the Spirit. -[2366.96 --> 2370.92] And they're all a little bit different, but they are all part of showing God's love to -[2370.92 --> 2371.38] the world. -[2371.54 --> 2376.38] So we're going to learn about how love is something in common for all the fruits of the Spirit, -[2377.12 --> 2378.54] but how they're all a little different. -[2378.76 --> 2381.88] And we're going to learn about those for the next few weeks, the different fruits of the -[2381.88 --> 2382.06] Spirit. -[2382.60 --> 2384.72] So could you please stand up with me? -[2385.12 --> 2385.96] And we'll do the blessing. -[2389.96 --> 2390.24] All right. -[2390.24 --> 2392.66] the Lord. -[2392.66 --> 2421.20] Good morning. -[2421.20 --> 2451.18] Good morning. -[2451.32 --> 2459.02] Lord, this Sunday morning, as a body of believers at Emanuel Church, we remember that you are the vine and we are the branches. -[2459.82 --> 2463.14] We long to bear much fruit by remaining in you. -[2463.62 --> 2466.88] And we know that we are dead and withering apart from you. -[2467.32 --> 2469.64] We pray, God, that you draw us near to you. -[2469.64 --> 2477.12] We praise you, Lord, for the new council members who are just drawn by you to serve in your church. -[2477.64 --> 2480.12] We pray that you bless their work and their leadership, Lord. -[2480.12 --> 2489.14] Lord, provide all of our leaders, as well as those of us who lead outside the church, with wisdom and strength to do their work to further your kingdom. -[2489.14 --> 2494.12] We pray, Lord, for those who are preparing for public profession of faith. -[2494.86 --> 2497.54] Bless them with growth in their relationship with you. -[2497.54 --> 2503.30] We also lift up those who are struggling at this time to walk by faith and not by sight. -[2503.94 --> 2507.72] Draw us to you, helping us to seek your word for our lives. -[2507.72 --> 2514.74] Lord, we have limitless freedom and access to your word, yet we often neglect to spend time in it. -[2515.46 --> 2516.66] Change our hearts, O God. -[2517.20 --> 2525.30] If we remain in you and your word remains in us, we are assured that we can ask whatever we wish and it will be done to your glory, Father. -[2525.96 --> 2528.20] And we will bear much fruit as your disciples. -[2528.20 --> 2535.94] Lord, we ask for your healing hand on all of the health concerns and struggles we have in our congregation at this time. -[2536.44 --> 2539.86] And we praise your name for all the blessings you have poured out on us. -[2540.48 --> 2543.16] We pray for Rose Vita as she is ill at home. -[2543.62 --> 2546.38] We ask, Lord, that you bring her back to full health. -[2547.24 --> 2551.52] We praise you that Doreen's pacemaker surgery and recovery has been going well. -[2552.48 --> 2556.78] And, Lord, we lift up Rika as she has her hip replacement scheduled for this Wednesday. -[2556.78 --> 2559.26] Bless the surgery that it may go well. -[2559.88 --> 2566.62] And we ask, Lord, that Rika can recover to the mobility without pain and discomfort that she has been dealing with for so long. -[2567.76 --> 2571.04] We pray, Lord, for Sai as his cancer treatments are nearly done. -[2571.26 --> 2573.44] And we praise you that it is going well. -[2574.84 --> 2580.14] Lord, we lift up several people that we know of with injuries and broken bones. -[2580.90 --> 2585.02] Lord, bring healing to their bodies and provide patience and trust in you -[2585.02 --> 2587.58] during the sometimes long roads to recovery. -[2588.94 --> 2591.74] Lord, we lift up those among us with aging parents. -[2592.16 --> 2596.68] And we pray that as our bodies weaken, our faith and trust in you will be strengthened. -[2597.24 --> 2603.14] We ask that you provide caregivers and families with wisdom in discerning best ways to provide care. -[2604.34 --> 2608.54] Lord, we pray for those of us who are mourning the loss of people we have loved dearly. -[2609.60 --> 2612.38] Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. -[2612.38 --> 2619.64] Lord, we pray for those who are struggling with mental health issues and with those who are supporting and caring for them. -[2620.22 --> 2625.32] Give us your grace to love and care for each other in all circumstances. -[2627.08 --> 2630.44] Lord, we pray for individuals and families who are broken and hurting. -[2630.98 --> 2635.86] Some of us are burdened by the impacts of addictions in our lives or in the lives of those we care about. -[2636.40 --> 2638.28] Lord, break the chains that bind us. -[2638.28 --> 2643.68] We pray for the world we live in, as so much of the world has not remained in you. -[2644.28 --> 2650.62] There are wars, hunger, corruption, distortion of truth, and even denial that truth exists. -[2651.58 --> 2656.78] Lord, please have mercy on us and use us as your people to call your world back to you. -[2657.92 --> 2661.56] Lord, we pray for Pastor Kevin as he shares your words for us this morning. -[2661.56 --> 2667.52] Let the words you speak to us today remain in us and flow from us beyond this place. -[2668.00 --> 2671.22] We ask all these things in the blessed name of our Savior Jesus. -[2671.70 --> 2671.96] Amen. -[2671.96 --> 2672.06] Amen. -[2691.56 --> 2702.48] As I mentioned, Pastor Chris and Josh Chamberlain are off gallivanting in sunny California, -[2702.80 --> 2705.50] attending this Leadership in Theology conference right now. -[2705.54 --> 2706.06] But you know what? -[2706.38 --> 2710.96] We are going to have just as much fun as them today, because we are opening up the Book of Romans, -[2711.18 --> 2713.62] and we have all been very excited about that sermon series. -[2713.62 --> 2715.58] So I'm looking forward to opening again. -[2715.58 --> 2719.68] But it has been a while since we've opened this book. -[2720.00 --> 2721.04] March 26. -[2721.76 --> 2725.76] That was the last time we opened Romans and looked at it in this church. -[2726.14 --> 2729.96] Now, since then, we've journeyed through Lent and prepared for Good Friday and Easter Sunday. -[2730.40 --> 2735.02] We've enjoyed Gems Sunday and looked at their theme verse, Micah 6, verse 8. -[2735.26 --> 2740.60] And then we spent the last four weeks looking at the Book of Jonah, a little man and a big fish. -[2740.74 --> 2741.88] That's what I would have called the series. -[2742.34 --> 2745.44] But today, we're going to jump back into Romans. -[2745.58 --> 2750.74] And continue sort of our year-long look at this letter from Paul. -[2752.72 --> 2757.32] Now, it's worth mentioning that this pattern is actually going to continue sort of going forward. -[2757.42 --> 2761.76] For the next six Sundays or so, we're going to go back into Romans and keep moving along in our series. -[2762.28 --> 2765.66] But then when summer hits, we're going to take a bit of a break again and look at something different. -[2766.12 --> 2771.80] When September and October rolls around, we'll get back into Romans and look at it for an extended chunk of time. -[2771.80 --> 2774.14] Then we'll stop over the Christmas season, of course. -[2774.46 --> 2778.00] And then we'll likely finish off Romans in the new year. -[2778.74 --> 2781.42] All of that said, today we get back at it. -[2782.16 --> 2785.66] And today we're going to look at the next chunk of this letter. -[2786.42 --> 2790.22] This is the perfect passage, actually, to springboard back into this series. -[2790.22 --> 2796.14] Because it revisits the themes that we looked at last time in Romans chapter 6. -[2796.48 --> 2804.06] Now, for those of you who have better memories than I do, you'll remember that eight weeks ago, Paul asked the question, -[2804.60 --> 2808.18] Shall we go on sinning so that grace can increase? -[2808.18 --> 2814.46] And so Paul wrote in Romans 6, and then Pastor Chris highlighted in his message that, of course, we cannot do that. -[2814.82 --> 2821.18] We cannot keep on sinning because through Jesus' death, we died to sin as well. -[2821.40 --> 2823.22] And therefore, we cannot go on sinning. -[2823.98 --> 2826.96] Then in Romans 6.15, Paul asks another question. -[2827.08 --> 2832.32] He says, Shall we sin because we are no longer under the law but under grace? -[2832.32 --> 2838.54] Basically, the question is, Jesus saves us all anyways, so why don't we just go and do whatever we want? -[2839.62 --> 2843.60] And again, the answer is no, of course we cannot do that, for the wages of sin is death. -[2844.60 --> 2848.08] But the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. -[2848.14 --> 2851.46] That's Romans 6.23, which brings us to today's text. -[2852.02 --> 2855.62] Romans 7, verses 1 to 6, the chunk that we're going to look at today. -[2855.88 --> 2859.54] In this text, Paul brings up these themes that we looked at last time. -[2859.54 --> 2865.48] And he answers the question, Can't we just do whatever we want if Jesus saves us anyways, if grace is so big? -[2866.00 --> 2869.06] But he answers this question with a different example. -[2869.78 --> 2871.18] And so we'll look at that today. Let's read it now. -[2871.24 --> 2873.50] We're going to go and look at Romans 7, 1 to 6. -[2873.58 --> 2878.18] It'll be on the screen behind me, but please, as always, I encourage you, have your Bibles open in front of you. -[2878.44 --> 2884.90] Have your Bible apps open on your phone so you can revisit this text as we make our way through it today. -[2886.14 --> 2888.54] Romans 7, 1 to 6, says this. -[2889.54 --> 2894.72] Do you not know, brothers and sisters, for I am speaking to those who know the law, -[2895.28 --> 2899.30] that the law has authority over someone only as long as that person lives? -[2900.16 --> 2905.48] For example, by law, a married woman is bound to her husband as long as he is alive. -[2905.54 --> 2910.18] But if her husband dies, she is released from the law that binds her to him. -[2910.18 --> 2915.40] So then, if she has sexual relations with another man while her husband is still alive, -[2915.74 --> 2917.98] she is called an adulteress. -[2918.64 --> 2922.04] But if her husband dies, she is released from that law -[2922.04 --> 2925.34] and is not an adulteress if she marries another man. -[2925.34 --> 2933.12] So, my brothers and sisters, you also died to the law through the body of Christ, -[2933.26 --> 2937.90] that you might belong to another, to him who was raised from the dead, -[2938.16 --> 2941.48] in order that we might bear fruit for God. -[2942.30 --> 2944.52] For when we were in the realm of the flesh, -[2944.86 --> 2948.30] the sinful passions aroused by the law were at work in us, -[2948.40 --> 2950.26] so that we bore fruit for death. -[2950.26 --> 2954.98] But now, by dying to what once bound us, -[2955.48 --> 2957.28] we have been released from the law, -[2957.60 --> 2960.06] so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit -[2960.06 --> 2963.96] and not in the old way of the written code, -[2964.54 --> 2965.92] the word of the Lord. -[2968.48 --> 2971.24] Now, like I mentioned, this passage today, -[2971.52 --> 2974.58] as well as the passage from Romans 6, 1 to 11, -[2974.68 --> 2976.32] they follow a similar pattern. -[2976.86 --> 2977.98] And this pattern looks like this. -[2978.00 --> 2978.84] It's a four-parter. -[2978.90 --> 2979.54] It looks like this. -[2980.92 --> 2983.28] One, we once belonged to sin, -[2983.40 --> 2986.42] and we were bound to the law and failed to live by it. -[2987.26 --> 2989.80] Two, then Jesus came, and in his death, -[2990.12 --> 2992.60] we died as well in order to overcome the law. -[2993.66 --> 2995.44] Three, we now have a new birth, -[2995.48 --> 2996.74] or as this passage says, -[2996.82 --> 2999.84] a new marriage or union with Christ. -[3000.12 --> 3001.22] And then finally, four, -[3001.40 --> 3005.18] we are called to bear out fruit for Jesus. -[3006.10 --> 3008.60] Now, that's the simple summary of not just this passage, -[3008.60 --> 3011.30] but the passage Pastor Chris looked at eight weeks ago. -[3011.52 --> 3013.10] But before we really get moving here, -[3013.12 --> 3014.38] I do have to mention one thing. -[3015.18 --> 3016.44] My parents are in town. -[3017.04 --> 3018.06] That's very exciting. -[3018.76 --> 3019.28] They're in town. -[3019.36 --> 3020.34] They've come for the long weekend, -[3020.34 --> 3021.72] and my mom is sitting right there, -[3021.82 --> 3023.34] like 14 feet away. -[3023.60 --> 3025.54] And it's classic, because of course, -[3025.76 --> 3027.92] the passage that she gets to sit here, -[3028.04 --> 3029.20] that I get to speak about, -[3029.20 --> 3033.38] is just full of intimate sexual words. -[3033.88 --> 3034.12] Right? -[3034.18 --> 3036.14] Like, that is Murphy's Law. -[3037.68 --> 3039.20] And now, you might be asking, -[3039.30 --> 3040.62] but look at this text today. -[3040.72 --> 3043.42] Look at the words that Paul uses to describe here. -[3044.40 --> 3047.14] He uses sexual relations in verse 3. -[3047.36 --> 3050.12] He calls out adultery and adulterous behavior -[3050.12 --> 3051.16] also in verse 3. -[3051.38 --> 3053.08] He talks about belonging to God, -[3053.12 --> 3054.36] or belonging to one another. -[3054.36 --> 3055.92] And that doesn't sound so racy, -[3056.04 --> 3056.92] but like in the Greek, -[3057.04 --> 3060.12] it means like belonging to each other. -[3060.28 --> 3061.40] That's what Paul's getting at. -[3061.74 --> 3064.94] Bear fruit is language that he uses on purpose in verse 4. -[3065.00 --> 3069.32] And finally, Paul speaks of aroused passions in verse 5. -[3069.62 --> 3074.72] This is sexualized language done on purpose by Paul. -[3074.72 --> 3079.98] Because Paul is using marital intimacy -[3079.98 --> 3082.26] as his example here -[3082.26 --> 3085.92] on how Christ and our relationship should work. -[3087.44 --> 3090.00] Marital intimacy is the foundational point -[3090.00 --> 3090.98] of this chunk of text. -[3091.28 --> 3092.70] He is unabashedly saying -[3092.70 --> 3095.26] that when we die with Christ to sin, -[3095.64 --> 3097.54] we are not simply just born again, -[3097.98 --> 3100.90] but we are newly married to Him. -[3101.54 --> 3103.20] Newly married to Christ. -[3103.20 --> 3104.96] We are intimate with Him. -[3105.10 --> 3106.44] We are united with Him. -[3106.52 --> 3108.36] We belong to Him. -[3110.50 --> 3112.96] Because that's the closest example -[3112.96 --> 3114.18] that Paul can think of -[3114.18 --> 3117.16] to show how intimate our relationship -[3117.16 --> 3118.54] between Christ needs to be. -[3118.86 --> 3120.68] How intimate the relationship -[3120.68 --> 3123.50] between Christ and I needs to be. -[3123.60 --> 3124.84] How intimate the relationship -[3124.84 --> 3127.42] between Christ and you needs to be. -[3128.94 --> 3132.30] Paul's not over-sexualizing this text here as a joke. -[3132.30 --> 3134.72] He's not writing this in a risque way, -[3134.72 --> 3136.66] but in a very purposefully, -[3137.04 --> 3139.74] very intimately loving kind of way. -[3140.86 --> 3142.16] Paul's highlighting here -[3142.16 --> 3144.74] that our natural inclinations change -[3144.74 --> 3147.08] when we die with Christ to sin -[3147.08 --> 3149.48] and are remarried to Him. -[3150.26 --> 3152.14] Our tendencies go from death -[3152.14 --> 3154.32] and sin and destruction, -[3154.32 --> 3159.16] and they change to life and obedience -[3159.16 --> 3160.20] and regeneration. -[3162.14 --> 3164.48] When we die with Christ to our sin, -[3164.66 --> 3167.32] we are united intimately with Jesus, -[3167.64 --> 3168.22] our Savior. -[3168.22 --> 3170.68] When we promise our life to Him -[3170.68 --> 3171.72] above all things, -[3172.22 --> 3173.96] our natural tendencies shift -[3173.96 --> 3175.30] from death, sin, and destruction -[3175.30 --> 3178.02] to life, obedience, and regeneration. -[3178.26 --> 3179.80] That's our big idea for today. -[3179.80 --> 3182.72] When we become intimately united with Christ, -[3183.62 --> 3185.64] our lives must bear His fruit. -[3186.88 --> 3188.88] So let's pick this passage apart a little bit -[3188.88 --> 3190.56] and see how this is true. -[3190.64 --> 3192.18] We're going to look at this passage -[3192.18 --> 3193.60] in sort of three different chunks. -[3194.08 --> 3195.52] So the first chunk is verse 1, -[3196.24 --> 3197.60] and that's about sort of -[3197.60 --> 3199.30] the legal principle of the law. -[3200.20 --> 3201.98] The second chunk is verses 2 and 3, -[3202.06 --> 3203.82] the example of marriage that Paul uses. -[3203.96 --> 3205.98] And then the third chunk is verses 4 through 6, -[3205.98 --> 3208.14] the implication and then application -[3208.14 --> 3210.04] for us here today. -[3210.14 --> 3211.54] First off, Romans 7 verse 1. -[3211.70 --> 3212.88] Now this is very important. -[3213.00 --> 3213.88] It sets the table. -[3214.20 --> 3215.80] It's also going to be a very short point. -[3216.02 --> 3217.36] So, I don't know. -[3217.40 --> 3218.32] You're welcome, I guess. -[3219.78 --> 3221.30] The first verse of our text, -[3221.80 --> 3223.62] Paul points out that the law -[3223.62 --> 3226.30] only holds power over you -[3226.30 --> 3229.50] if you are, in fact, alive. -[3230.74 --> 3231.90] Paul says in verse 1 -[3231.90 --> 3233.64] that the law has authority over someone -[3233.64 --> 3235.60] only as long as that person lives. -[3235.60 --> 3236.70] And I know what you're thinking. -[3237.18 --> 3238.98] You have never thought of that before. -[3239.76 --> 3242.54] This is new, groundbreaking information to you. -[3242.88 --> 3243.96] But the truth is, -[3244.14 --> 3245.38] speeding on your way to work -[3245.38 --> 3247.72] is only a law for people who are living. -[3249.00 --> 3249.26] Right? -[3249.66 --> 3251.62] Same with owning a pet rat in Alberta -[3251.62 --> 3253.94] or whistling in Petrolia, Ontario -[3253.94 --> 3257.52] or building a snowman over 30 inches tall in PEI -[3257.52 --> 3259.46] or claiming that something is maple syrup -[3259.46 --> 3260.10] here in Canada -[3260.10 --> 3261.86] when in fact it is not maple syrup. -[3262.46 --> 3263.94] Yes, those are all true laws. -[3263.94 --> 3265.62] Yes, I look them all up. -[3265.76 --> 3268.52] And yes, they all only apply to you -[3268.52 --> 3270.00] if you are alive. -[3271.46 --> 3273.24] So, maybe those aren't the best examples -[3273.24 --> 3275.24] because, honestly, police in Prince Edward Island -[3275.24 --> 3276.82] would only be arresting, like, eight-year-olds -[3276.82 --> 3278.50] if they actually enforce the snowman one. -[3278.76 --> 3280.02] But to Paul's point, -[3280.72 --> 3283.20] no matter how logical -[3283.20 --> 3285.80] or how ridiculous a law is, -[3286.52 --> 3288.64] they only affect us when we are alive. -[3289.08 --> 3290.74] Dead people don't worry about laws. -[3290.74 --> 3292.22] Makes sense, right? -[3292.28 --> 3293.14] This is true now. -[3293.38 --> 3294.90] It is true with the Mosaic Law -[3294.90 --> 3295.98] that Paul is talking about. -[3296.16 --> 3296.96] It's been true forever. -[3297.48 --> 3299.86] The law holds no power over you -[3299.86 --> 3300.60] if you are dead. -[3302.14 --> 3303.40] And while that may be obvious -[3303.40 --> 3304.70] and maybe seems kind of silly -[3304.70 --> 3305.62] to even bring it up, -[3305.84 --> 3308.42] it's theologically so very important -[3308.42 --> 3309.30] to Paul's point. -[3310.56 --> 3312.64] Because in the section of this text, -[3312.76 --> 3313.94] I told you that first one was fast, -[3314.26 --> 3315.60] he gives an example -[3315.60 --> 3317.14] that highlights this truth. -[3317.14 --> 3319.72] In verses 2 to 3, -[3319.84 --> 3321.30] he uses the example of marriage -[3321.30 --> 3322.58] to drive this point home. -[3323.48 --> 3324.76] Paul says that when you're married, -[3325.20 --> 3327.58] as long as your spouse is alive, -[3327.74 --> 3329.72] you are bound to them in marriage. -[3329.80 --> 3330.94] By the law of marriage, -[3331.40 --> 3332.30] you are together. -[3332.42 --> 3334.10] If you were to be sexually intimate -[3334.10 --> 3335.26] with someone else -[3335.26 --> 3337.08] while your spouse is still living, -[3338.00 --> 3339.02] you would be an adulterer. -[3339.20 --> 3340.86] You would be committing adultery. -[3340.96 --> 3342.58] Again, this is not necessarily groundbreaking. -[3342.78 --> 3344.14] Christians and non-Christians alike -[3344.14 --> 3345.16] believe this to be true. -[3345.16 --> 3348.72] However, if sadly your spouse -[3348.72 --> 3349.70] were to pass away, -[3350.86 --> 3351.76] you would be free -[3351.76 --> 3353.46] from sort of the law of marriage -[3353.46 --> 3354.78] and then you would be allowed -[3354.78 --> 3356.56] and able to go and marry someone else. -[3357.30 --> 3358.58] The death of your spouse -[3358.58 --> 3359.84] breaks the bonds -[3359.84 --> 3361.28] of the law of marriage -[3361.28 --> 3363.18] and you're free to marry somebody else. -[3365.00 --> 3366.86] Now, youth pastor side point here, -[3366.98 --> 3367.88] youth, young people, -[3368.02 --> 3368.98] even some of you old people, -[3369.06 --> 3370.46] notice what Paul says here in verse 3. -[3370.92 --> 3372.20] It says, Paul writes, -[3372.20 --> 3374.14] she, so the spouse of the husband -[3374.14 --> 3374.92] who's passed away, -[3375.22 --> 3376.76] she's released from the law, -[3376.88 --> 3377.60] the law of marriage, -[3377.74 --> 3379.36] and is not an adulteress -[3379.36 --> 3380.34] if she, what? -[3380.78 --> 3383.10] If she marries another man. -[3383.26 --> 3384.58] Notice Paul doesn't say here -[3384.58 --> 3385.84] if she sleeps with. -[3386.08 --> 3386.92] She says marries. -[3387.06 --> 3388.50] Sex is for marriage. -[3388.98 --> 3389.50] Paul doesn't say -[3389.50 --> 3390.40] when you're not married -[3390.40 --> 3391.60] or you become unmarried, -[3391.68 --> 3392.58] you're free to sleep around -[3392.58 --> 3393.74] until you find your next spouse. -[3394.16 --> 3395.58] No, Paul says -[3395.58 --> 3396.68] if your spouse passes, -[3397.04 --> 3398.04] you don't have permission -[3398.04 --> 3399.66] to sleep with whoever you want. -[3399.66 --> 3401.24] You have permission at that point -[3401.24 --> 3402.10] to get remarried. -[3402.42 --> 3404.40] The bonds of the law of marriage -[3404.40 --> 3404.84] are broken -[3404.84 --> 3406.04] and you can get remarried. -[3407.42 --> 3409.00] Marital intimacy is just that. -[3409.08 --> 3409.64] It's marital. -[3411.02 --> 3411.94] And only death, -[3412.20 --> 3413.26] according to Paul here, -[3413.36 --> 3416.00] can break the bonds of marriage. -[3417.30 --> 3419.22] There, the youth pastor side tangent over, -[3419.34 --> 3420.48] but that is important -[3420.48 --> 3421.82] because Paul's point -[3421.82 --> 3424.20] is that marital intimacy is forever. -[3425.30 --> 3427.38] It can only be broken by death -[3427.38 --> 3429.34] till death do us part. -[3429.34 --> 3430.74] That's why we say that at weddings. -[3432.58 --> 3433.64] And this matters -[3433.64 --> 3436.42] because only death -[3436.42 --> 3438.36] breaks the bonds of law -[3438.36 --> 3440.80] because the law doesn't apply to you -[3440.80 --> 3441.50] if you are dead. -[3443.46 --> 3446.10] Now, remember way back in Genesis -[3446.10 --> 3447.94] when Adam and Eve kind of messed up -[3447.94 --> 3448.68] and they ate the fruit -[3448.68 --> 3450.42] and then humanity fell into sin forever? -[3450.64 --> 3452.16] Well, now all of humanity -[3452.16 --> 3454.18] is bound to sin -[3454.18 --> 3455.56] and death in this world. -[3456.16 --> 3457.46] The law was made to show -[3457.46 --> 3459.30] what righteous living for God -[3459.30 --> 3460.00] would look like, -[3460.00 --> 3462.18] but it also revealed -[3462.18 --> 3464.02] how broken and depraved -[3464.02 --> 3465.86] and sinful we all actually are, -[3465.98 --> 3467.42] how bound to sin -[3467.42 --> 3469.00] we all actually are. -[3469.66 --> 3470.56] So when Paul says -[3470.56 --> 3471.94] we're bound to the law, -[3472.14 --> 3472.80] or more accurately, -[3472.94 --> 3473.98] we're bound to the sin -[3473.98 --> 3475.20] which the law reveals, -[3475.70 --> 3478.22] the only way to break the bonds -[3478.22 --> 3480.30] of the law of sin and death -[3480.30 --> 3483.08] is with death. -[3484.98 --> 3486.52] That's why even if it seems obvious -[3486.52 --> 3487.02] or silly, -[3487.12 --> 3487.80] it's important to hear -[3487.80 --> 3488.82] that death absolves you -[3488.82 --> 3490.04] from being bound to the law. -[3490.36 --> 3490.82] In marriage, -[3490.94 --> 3491.84] that means through death -[3491.84 --> 3493.46] you are able to marry again. -[3493.92 --> 3494.44] This here, -[3494.54 --> 3495.36] this text says -[3495.36 --> 3496.52] because of the law -[3496.52 --> 3498.78] which cannot deliver you -[3498.78 --> 3500.22] from sin in the flesh, -[3500.30 --> 3502.56] it cannot produce obedience -[3502.56 --> 3504.16] with you or to God. -[3504.38 --> 3505.62] The law cannot save you. -[3505.68 --> 3507.04] The law cannot justify you. -[3507.12 --> 3509.00] The law cannot sanctify you. -[3509.46 --> 3509.74] Actually, -[3509.82 --> 3510.66] because of our nature, -[3511.14 --> 3512.24] our bonds to the law -[3512.24 --> 3513.44] only lead to death. -[3513.76 --> 3514.90] And in order for that bond -[3514.90 --> 3515.62] to be broken, -[3516.34 --> 3517.74] death needs to happen. -[3520.84 --> 3521.62] Now again, -[3522.10 --> 3523.66] the law itself is not bad -[3523.66 --> 3524.88] and Paul's going to get to that -[3524.88 --> 3525.82] in our next passage. -[3525.98 --> 3527.16] And Pastor Chris, -[3527.22 --> 3527.40] sorry, -[3527.56 --> 3528.14] called him piss. -[3528.22 --> 3528.84] That's embarrassing. -[3529.30 --> 3530.94] That's online for the world to see. -[3531.74 --> 3532.40] Pastor Chris, -[3532.44 --> 3533.98] he's going to go into this -[3533.98 --> 3535.16] all next week. -[3535.46 --> 3535.72] Actually, -[3535.78 --> 3536.38] next week he gets -[3536.38 --> 3537.16] a very fun text. -[3537.22 --> 3538.04] If you know Romans at all -[3538.04 --> 3538.50] a little bit, -[3538.86 --> 3540.76] the second half of Romans 7 -[3540.76 --> 3541.68] is the whole passage -[3541.68 --> 3542.38] where Paul says, -[3543.04 --> 3543.96] for what I want to do, -[3544.00 --> 3544.52] I do not do, -[3544.58 --> 3545.62] but what I do not want to do, -[3545.66 --> 3545.94] I do. -[3546.24 --> 3547.30] And he goes on forever -[3547.30 --> 3548.60] on that tangent. -[3548.70 --> 3549.22] And it's awesome -[3549.22 --> 3550.38] and very fun to see -[3550.38 --> 3552.54] Pastor Chris talk about that. -[3553.24 --> 3554.04] But the point is, -[3554.12 --> 3555.10] the law is not bad. -[3555.20 --> 3555.50] In fact, -[3555.54 --> 3557.08] it reveals the holiness of God -[3557.08 --> 3558.00] and yet we need more -[3558.00 --> 3558.76] than the law. -[3559.46 --> 3560.66] If we relied on the law -[3560.66 --> 3561.40] to save us, -[3561.44 --> 3562.22] all of us would be hooped. -[3562.22 --> 3566.00] We all need the law-fulfilling, -[3566.28 --> 3567.50] sin-bearing substitute -[3567.50 --> 3568.48] of Jesus Christ. -[3570.14 --> 3571.26] That's what Romans 6, -[3571.32 --> 3572.28] 1 to 11 was saying -[3572.28 --> 3572.92] when we looked at it -[3572.92 --> 3573.44] eight weeks ago. -[3573.48 --> 3574.72] That's what Paul is saying -[3574.72 --> 3575.32] here today -[3575.32 --> 3576.76] through our union with Christ, -[3577.22 --> 3578.62] symbolized by being wed -[3578.62 --> 3579.80] to him in his death -[3579.80 --> 3580.54] and in his resurrection. -[3580.88 --> 3581.94] We have the power -[3581.94 --> 3582.54] of the Spirit -[3582.54 --> 3584.22] to bear fruit for God. -[3584.84 --> 3586.00] We were once united -[3586.00 --> 3586.84] to the law, -[3587.00 --> 3588.50] united to sin. -[3588.50 --> 3590.60] And the only way -[3590.60 --> 3591.92] for that union to break -[3591.92 --> 3592.96] was with death. -[3595.58 --> 3595.90] And so, -[3596.02 --> 3597.96] to the point of this text -[3597.96 --> 3598.58] and honestly, -[3598.68 --> 3600.02] to the point of all of Scripture, -[3601.02 --> 3602.66] either we have to die -[3602.66 --> 3604.32] to break that bond -[3604.32 --> 3606.96] or someone dies for us. -[3608.20 --> 3609.98] Someone dies in our place. -[3611.26 --> 3612.74] And Jesus came -[3612.74 --> 3613.92] and fulfilled that. -[3614.50 --> 3616.30] Jesus came into this world -[3616.30 --> 3618.46] and he lived a perfect life -[3618.46 --> 3619.08] to the law -[3619.08 --> 3620.22] that we should have lived, -[3620.48 --> 3621.34] a life that you and I -[3621.34 --> 3622.14] have not upheld. -[3622.42 --> 3624.00] And then in his perfection, -[3624.68 --> 3625.88] Jesus died the death -[3625.88 --> 3627.26] that you and I deserved. -[3628.38 --> 3629.42] And in that death, -[3629.60 --> 3631.10] Jesus broke the bonds -[3631.10 --> 3632.86] of the law of sin and death -[3632.86 --> 3634.48] that were holding us captive. -[3634.74 --> 3635.52] And then victoriously, -[3635.66 --> 3636.40] three days later, -[3636.48 --> 3637.60] Jesus rises again -[3637.60 --> 3639.52] from the grave, -[3639.86 --> 3641.32] victoriously defeating death -[3641.32 --> 3642.08] once and for all. -[3642.30 --> 3642.78] And then, -[3642.86 --> 3644.06] what we celebrated on Thursday, -[3644.26 --> 3645.40] Jesus ascends to heaven -[3645.40 --> 3646.92] and now he is in heaven, -[3647.30 --> 3648.22] seated at the right hand -[3648.22 --> 3648.68] of God, -[3649.30 --> 3650.80] interceding on your behalf, -[3650.84 --> 3652.04] on my behalf. -[3652.98 --> 3654.70] Because in Christ's death, -[3654.78 --> 3656.38] we also died to sin -[3656.38 --> 3658.36] and we were remarried -[3658.36 --> 3658.90] to Christ. -[3660.10 --> 3661.76] This language of being -[3661.76 --> 3662.86] the bride of Christ -[3662.86 --> 3664.08] that we hear so often, -[3664.14 --> 3664.96] that we use so often, -[3665.10 --> 3666.24] we use this all the time, -[3666.28 --> 3666.64] but have you ever -[3666.64 --> 3667.74] actually thought about it? -[3668.56 --> 3669.16] Have you ever actually -[3669.16 --> 3670.48] thought about what that means? -[3671.16 --> 3672.88] We are married to Jesus, -[3673.68 --> 3674.74] the Savior who died -[3674.74 --> 3675.24] to free you -[3675.24 --> 3676.72] from the bonds of sin. -[3677.12 --> 3677.96] And that becomes -[3677.96 --> 3678.62] the implication. -[3678.80 --> 3679.70] That is the third part -[3679.70 --> 3680.32] of this text. -[3680.42 --> 3681.32] Verses four to six -[3681.32 --> 3681.86] get to this. -[3682.54 --> 3683.78] We died to the law -[3683.78 --> 3684.82] in Jesus' death. -[3685.92 --> 3686.96] Jesus died to defeat -[3686.96 --> 3687.58] sin and death -[3687.58 --> 3688.48] and destruction -[3688.48 --> 3689.82] so that when we believe, -[3690.32 --> 3691.88] we die to the law too. -[3692.92 --> 3694.36] And now we're full of life, -[3695.36 --> 3695.84] obedience, -[3696.86 --> 3697.30] regeneration. -[3697.30 --> 3699.82] Not only that, -[3699.88 --> 3700.66] but when these bonds -[3700.66 --> 3701.22] were broken, -[3701.34 --> 3702.22] we were remarried. -[3703.08 --> 3704.90] We became the bride of Christ, -[3705.02 --> 3706.36] living in an intimate, -[3706.82 --> 3707.94] loving relationship -[3707.94 --> 3709.36] with our Savior and King. -[3709.78 --> 3710.70] Christ's death -[3710.70 --> 3711.90] has secured us. -[3712.78 --> 3713.64] He's secured us. -[3713.70 --> 3714.94] He's secured our release -[3714.94 --> 3716.40] from our union to the law -[3716.40 --> 3717.42] and allows us -[3717.42 --> 3718.74] to be married to Him now. -[3720.58 --> 3721.94] Becoming a Christian then, -[3722.50 --> 3723.46] becoming a Christian, -[3724.08 --> 3725.72] is a complete change -[3725.72 --> 3727.06] in our relationships -[3727.06 --> 3728.38] and our allegiances. -[3729.84 --> 3730.20] You see, -[3730.24 --> 3731.00] when you get married, -[3731.28 --> 3732.50] no part of your life -[3732.50 --> 3733.26] goes unchanged. -[3734.02 --> 3735.58] You no longer make decisions -[3735.58 --> 3736.80] regarding just yourself. -[3737.20 --> 3738.08] You make decisions -[3738.08 --> 3739.26] based on the relationship -[3739.26 --> 3741.02] you have with your spouse. -[3741.10 --> 3741.42] In essence, -[3741.80 --> 3742.82] you lose a little bit -[3742.82 --> 3743.48] of your autonomy. -[3743.98 --> 3745.22] You lose your freedom -[3745.22 --> 3747.24] because you are now -[3747.24 --> 3747.78] going to live -[3747.78 --> 3748.26] for the person -[3748.26 --> 3748.90] that you marry. -[3750.76 --> 3751.12] However, -[3751.60 --> 3752.98] you also gain a love -[3752.98 --> 3753.72] and an intimacy -[3753.72 --> 3755.36] that you didn't have before. -[3755.72 --> 3756.70] So while you sacrifice -[3756.70 --> 3757.44] your autonomy, -[3758.00 --> 3758.96] gain an intimacy -[3758.96 --> 3761.24] that was not experienced -[3761.24 --> 3761.78] beforehand. -[3764.30 --> 3765.06] Tim Keller, -[3765.28 --> 3766.36] who actually sadly -[3766.36 --> 3767.36] passed away this week -[3767.36 --> 3768.36] after a three-year battle -[3768.36 --> 3768.94] with cancer, -[3769.76 --> 3770.54] he had this to say -[3770.54 --> 3771.36] about this passage -[3771.36 --> 3773.12] in reference to marriage -[3773.12 --> 3774.26] but also in reference -[3774.26 --> 3774.98] to our marriage -[3774.98 --> 3775.58] with Christ. -[3776.18 --> 3776.94] Tim Keller says this, -[3777.00 --> 3777.26] he says, -[3777.60 --> 3778.70] because of this love -[3778.70 --> 3779.48] and intimacy, -[3780.18 --> 3781.86] our loss of freedom -[3781.86 --> 3782.64] is a joy, -[3783.12 --> 3783.86] not a burden. -[3783.86 --> 3785.64] In a good marriage, -[3785.72 --> 3786.44] your whole life -[3786.44 --> 3787.60] is affected and changed -[3787.60 --> 3789.26] by the wishes and desires -[3789.26 --> 3790.18] of the person you love. -[3790.38 --> 3791.42] You seek to discover -[3791.42 --> 3792.58] the wishes of your beloved -[3792.58 --> 3794.78] and are happy to make changes -[3794.78 --> 3796.64] in accord with those wishes. -[3800.24 --> 3801.68] Now we're married to Christ -[3801.68 --> 3804.04] and our whole life -[3804.04 --> 3806.02] is affected by Jesus. -[3807.30 --> 3809.12] Christ now pursues you. -[3809.12 --> 3810.84] He loves you intimately. -[3811.38 --> 3812.36] There is no area -[3812.36 --> 3813.06] of your life -[3813.06 --> 3813.82] that is untouched -[3813.82 --> 3814.60] by His grace, -[3814.88 --> 3815.68] by His mercy, -[3815.96 --> 3816.72] by His love, -[3817.44 --> 3820.30] but also by His callings. -[3821.88 --> 3823.12] Your whole life -[3823.66 --> 3824.64] is touched -[3824.64 --> 3825.76] and changed -[3825.76 --> 3826.74] by the calling -[3826.74 --> 3827.70] He has for you. -[3828.68 --> 3829.62] And when I say calling, -[3829.72 --> 3831.20] I'm not talking about -[3831.20 --> 3832.12] like the schools -[3832.12 --> 3833.24] that you need to apply for -[3833.24 --> 3833.88] or the jobs -[3833.88 --> 3834.56] you need to have -[3834.56 --> 3835.16] or the places -[3835.16 --> 3836.22] you might need to move to. -[3836.50 --> 3837.68] Those all can be things -[3837.68 --> 3838.58] that God calls you to. -[3838.58 --> 3839.12] That is true. -[3839.38 --> 3840.74] But more often than not, -[3841.42 --> 3842.88] God's calling on your life -[3842.88 --> 3843.74] is not the decisions -[3843.74 --> 3844.60] you have to make, -[3844.78 --> 3846.10] but the way in which -[3846.10 --> 3847.26] you are supposed to live. -[3848.24 --> 3850.22] The fruit that you are called to bear. -[3851.60 --> 3853.50] With our new union with Christ, -[3853.62 --> 3854.64] our bonds to sin, -[3855.10 --> 3856.90] our bonds to sin, -[3857.00 --> 3857.42] to death, -[3857.50 --> 3858.04] to destruction, -[3858.14 --> 3858.58] they're broken. -[3859.72 --> 3861.28] And we are called to live -[3861.28 --> 3862.02] for Jesus, -[3862.40 --> 3863.44] to bear His fruit. -[3863.74 --> 3864.64] Verse 4 of our text, -[3864.74 --> 3865.96] we belong to Him -[3865.96 --> 3867.80] who was raised from the dead -[3867.80 --> 3869.10] in order that we -[3869.10 --> 3870.62] might bear fruit -[3870.62 --> 3871.80] for God. -[3873.18 --> 3874.20] Obedience to Christ -[3874.20 --> 3875.04] and bearing fruit -[3875.04 --> 3876.04] for God, -[3876.10 --> 3877.42] that becomes the application -[3877.42 --> 3878.04] for today. -[3879.60 --> 3880.48] So now, -[3881.24 --> 3883.02] we don't obey the law -[3883.02 --> 3883.72] as a means -[3883.72 --> 3884.70] to gain salvation. -[3884.92 --> 3886.12] That was never going to work -[3886.12 --> 3886.74] anyways. -[3887.76 --> 3888.10] However, -[3888.20 --> 3888.84] in our union -[3888.84 --> 3889.94] with Christ, -[3890.46 --> 3891.50] we want -[3891.50 --> 3892.24] to follow -[3892.24 --> 3893.06] the law -[3893.06 --> 3894.18] because that is -[3894.18 --> 3895.58] our joyful response -[3895.58 --> 3896.56] to our groom, -[3896.70 --> 3897.38] Jesus Christ. -[3898.60 --> 3899.32] In other words, -[3899.50 --> 3900.62] we're not trying -[3900.62 --> 3901.60] to earn salvation -[3901.60 --> 3902.78] by obeying the law, -[3903.20 --> 3904.52] but by our union -[3904.52 --> 3905.20] with Christ, -[3905.34 --> 3906.36] for love of Him -[3906.36 --> 3907.46] and for His love for us, -[3907.62 --> 3908.36] we want -[3908.36 --> 3909.26] to strive -[3909.26 --> 3910.28] for righteousness -[3910.28 --> 3911.42] that obedience -[3911.42 --> 3912.46] to the law brings. -[3912.46 --> 3914.66] That concept -[3914.66 --> 3916.16] reframes everything. -[3917.90 --> 3919.00] I'll give you an example, -[3919.16 --> 3919.74] and maybe it's a bit -[3919.74 --> 3920.54] of a stereotypical -[3920.54 --> 3921.42] youth pastor example, -[3921.42 --> 3922.00] but that's fine -[3922.00 --> 3922.86] because Paul brings it up -[3922.86 --> 3923.36] and I actually -[3923.36 --> 3923.98] am a youth pastor. -[3924.98 --> 3925.42] Sometimes, -[3925.82 --> 3926.60] I hear a question -[3926.60 --> 3927.46] from a young person -[3927.46 --> 3928.30] or actually even -[3928.30 --> 3928.98] an older person -[3928.98 --> 3929.88] to be honest with you. -[3930.40 --> 3931.90] How far is too far -[3931.90 --> 3934.88] when it comes -[3934.88 --> 3935.94] to my physical relationship -[3935.94 --> 3936.58] with my boyfriend -[3936.58 --> 3937.02] or girlfriend? -[3937.20 --> 3938.38] How far is too far? -[3938.98 --> 3940.20] Like at what point -[3940.20 --> 3941.40] is it a sin? -[3942.46 --> 3943.62] How far is too far? -[3944.66 --> 3946.02] But that very question -[3946.02 --> 3948.08] is a question -[3948.08 --> 3948.92] that's framed -[3948.92 --> 3951.60] from the perspective -[3951.60 --> 3952.32] of being married -[3952.32 --> 3952.88] to the law. -[3953.94 --> 3954.96] See, we use the law -[3954.96 --> 3955.70] as a barometer -[3955.70 --> 3956.48] in that question -[3956.48 --> 3957.34] for our actions, -[3957.60 --> 3958.74] and we try to figure out -[3958.74 --> 3959.76] how far we can go -[3959.76 --> 3960.30] without actually -[3960.30 --> 3961.12] breaking something, -[3961.38 --> 3962.38] without breaking a rule. -[3962.46 --> 3962.82] We wonder, -[3963.08 --> 3963.64] at what point -[3963.64 --> 3964.70] does sin kick in -[3964.70 --> 3966.64] and the law take over -[3966.64 --> 3967.66] and am I going -[3967.66 --> 3969.50] against God's will -[3969.50 --> 3970.46] in the law -[3970.46 --> 3971.20] for your life -[3971.20 --> 3972.20] and at what point -[3972.20 --> 3973.10] does God reject me -[3973.10 --> 3973.70] for what I'm doing? -[3973.70 --> 3977.70] But we're married -[3977.70 --> 3978.58] to Christ now, -[3978.68 --> 3979.16] so that's not -[3979.16 --> 3979.86] how that works. -[3980.00 --> 3980.68] Instead of asking -[3980.68 --> 3982.12] how far is too far, -[3982.88 --> 3984.70] this reframes everything. -[3984.90 --> 3986.00] The right question is, -[3986.54 --> 3987.42] is not how far -[3987.42 --> 3987.94] is too far, -[3988.00 --> 3988.76] the right question is -[3988.76 --> 3990.42] how am I pursuing Christ -[3990.42 --> 3991.32] in this relationship? -[3992.26 --> 3993.54] How am I pursuing Christ -[3993.54 --> 3994.30] in my relationship -[3994.30 --> 3995.00] with my boyfriend -[3995.00 --> 3995.50] or girlfriend? -[3996.18 --> 3997.64] Where is Christ here? -[3998.86 --> 3999.70] See, the reframing -[4000.32 --> 4001.16] of that question -[4001.16 --> 4002.44] is going to provide you -[4002.44 --> 4003.46] with much better guidance -[4003.46 --> 4004.28] on how to move forward, -[4004.52 --> 4005.46] not just with your boyfriend -[4005.46 --> 4005.88] and girlfriend, -[4006.00 --> 4007.02] but with any relationship. -[4008.42 --> 4009.62] You have to reframe -[4009.62 --> 4010.30] the question -[4010.30 --> 4012.46] to reflect our marriage -[4012.46 --> 4013.02] to Christ, -[4013.16 --> 4014.04] not our relationship -[4014.04 --> 4014.76] to the law. -[4015.26 --> 4015.88] Now that's true -[4015.88 --> 4016.68] with the example -[4016.68 --> 4017.24] I just said -[4017.24 --> 4017.84] with your boyfriend -[4017.84 --> 4018.86] or girlfriend relationships, -[4019.10 --> 4020.22] but it covers all areas -[4020.22 --> 4021.02] of your life. -[4021.42 --> 4022.12] Instead of asking, -[4022.44 --> 4023.16] is this gossip -[4023.16 --> 4024.58] or how much can I say -[4024.58 --> 4025.40] here appropriately, -[4025.96 --> 4027.58] ask how am I honoring Christ -[4027.58 --> 4029.40] with what I'm speaking here? -[4030.22 --> 4030.88] Instead of asking, -[4031.10 --> 4032.04] is this greedy? -[4032.04 --> 4032.88] Am I being greedy? -[4033.26 --> 4035.48] Ask, how am I pursuing Christ -[4035.48 --> 4036.28] in these initiatives? -[4037.32 --> 4038.00] Instead of asking, -[4038.42 --> 4039.86] how much can I get away with? -[4040.34 --> 4041.74] Ask, how close am I -[4041.74 --> 4042.90] to Christ in this moment? -[4045.10 --> 4045.90] See, our obedience -[4045.90 --> 4046.44] to the law -[4046.44 --> 4047.22] is not something -[4047.22 --> 4048.80] we use to gauge -[4048.80 --> 4050.42] our sinometer -[4050.42 --> 4051.90] to see how far -[4051.90 --> 4052.40] we can go -[4052.40 --> 4053.26] before we cross -[4053.26 --> 4054.42] the threshold -[4054.42 --> 4055.22] of wickedness, -[4055.76 --> 4057.60] but rather, -[4058.56 --> 4059.18] our obedience -[4059.18 --> 4059.92] to the law -[4059.92 --> 4060.40] is used -[4060.40 --> 4060.76] as a way -[4060.76 --> 4061.54] to demonstrate -[4061.54 --> 4062.68] our love -[4062.68 --> 4063.50] for Jesus, -[4064.08 --> 4064.78] to show him -[4064.78 --> 4065.70] that we love him -[4065.70 --> 4067.42] and show the world -[4067.42 --> 4068.26] around us -[4068.26 --> 4069.36] that we are -[4069.36 --> 4070.38] his disciples, -[4070.52 --> 4071.14] that we are -[4071.14 --> 4071.92] his bride. -[4074.56 --> 4075.94] Now more than that though, -[4076.36 --> 4077.18] the reframing -[4077.18 --> 4078.44] of why we obey the law, -[4078.50 --> 4079.18] it should change -[4079.18 --> 4080.48] actually what we pursue -[4080.48 --> 4081.28] in this life. -[4081.28 --> 4085.40] when we start -[4085.40 --> 4086.06] living out -[4086.06 --> 4087.22] this love of Christ -[4087.22 --> 4087.90] in our lives, -[4088.06 --> 4089.88] we start pursuing him -[4089.88 --> 4090.56] and the things -[4090.56 --> 4091.52] that Jesus loves. -[4092.38 --> 4093.10] So just like -[4093.10 --> 4093.88] in your relationships -[4093.88 --> 4094.66] here with people -[4094.66 --> 4095.12] on earth, -[4095.92 --> 4096.44] and marriage -[4096.44 --> 4097.14] is a really good -[4097.14 --> 4097.86] example of this, -[4097.90 --> 4098.68] so it's a really good -[4098.68 --> 4098.98] example, -[4099.10 --> 4099.62] but you can also -[4099.62 --> 4100.42] think of your friendships -[4100.42 --> 4101.06] or your other -[4101.06 --> 4102.00] relationships as well. -[4103.26 --> 4104.70] You learn to love -[4104.70 --> 4105.42] the things -[4105.42 --> 4107.14] or pursue the things -[4107.14 --> 4108.24] that your loved ones -[4108.24 --> 4108.54] love. -[4108.54 --> 4110.06] Right? -[4110.12 --> 4110.74] So I've taken -[4110.74 --> 4111.80] to loving my cat. -[4112.00 --> 4112.82] I've never liked -[4112.82 --> 4113.70] cats in my life. -[4114.06 --> 4114.44] Honestly, -[4114.62 --> 4115.46] just never have. -[4115.64 --> 4116.68] But Nikki loves cats -[4116.68 --> 4117.70] and my daughters -[4117.70 --> 4118.40] love cats -[4118.40 --> 4119.56] and so now -[4119.56 --> 4120.40] I love our cat. -[4121.26 --> 4122.32] It's just true. -[4122.60 --> 4123.24] She also kills -[4123.24 --> 4124.08] a lot of moles -[4124.08 --> 4125.14] and a lot of mice -[4125.14 --> 4125.86] and I'm a big fan -[4125.86 --> 4126.40] of that too. -[4127.46 --> 4127.76] Also, -[4127.86 --> 4128.64] I'm reading now -[4128.64 --> 4129.48] more than I ever have -[4129.48 --> 4129.98] in my life. -[4130.44 --> 4130.94] Partly because -[4130.94 --> 4131.54] I'm in school -[4131.54 --> 4132.90] but also because -[4132.90 --> 4134.06] my wife loves to read -[4134.06 --> 4135.46] but also the two guys -[4135.46 --> 4136.18] that I work with -[4136.18 --> 4137.42] who I also love dearly -[4137.42 --> 4138.90] love reading -[4138.90 --> 4140.46] and absorbing knowledge. -[4141.10 --> 4141.78] So here I am -[4141.78 --> 4142.36] reading Keller -[4142.36 --> 4142.80] and Root -[4142.80 --> 4143.16] and Smith -[4143.16 --> 4143.58] and Taylor -[4143.58 --> 4144.60] with more regularity -[4144.60 --> 4145.40] than ever before. -[4146.30 --> 4147.16] I also watch -[4147.16 --> 4148.30] every single shark movie -[4148.30 --> 4148.86] that comes out -[4148.86 --> 4149.26] to theaters -[4149.26 --> 4150.28] because I've got friends -[4150.28 --> 4151.56] who love shark movies -[4151.56 --> 4152.50] and I'm right there -[4152.50 --> 4152.96] with them -[4152.96 --> 4153.82] in the theater -[4153.82 --> 4154.60] spending $15 -[4154.60 --> 4155.68] even if those movies -[4155.68 --> 4156.42] are absolute garbage. -[4157.72 --> 4159.10] We learn to love -[4159.10 --> 4159.64] the things -[4159.64 --> 4160.70] our loved ones love. -[4161.40 --> 4162.68] We pursue the things -[4162.68 --> 4163.72] our loved ones love. -[4165.12 --> 4166.00] With Jesus, -[4166.20 --> 4167.12] when we love him, -[4168.08 --> 4169.04] we should be pursuing -[4169.04 --> 4169.78] the things -[4169.78 --> 4170.66] pursuing the things -[4170.66 --> 4171.18] that he loves -[4171.18 --> 4172.62] pursuing the fruits -[4172.62 --> 4173.52] of the spirit. -[4173.64 --> 4174.56] That's what our text says. -[4174.90 --> 4175.90] We are bearing -[4175.90 --> 4177.54] the fruits for God. -[4178.16 --> 4178.60] This means -[4178.60 --> 4179.54] rather than treating -[4179.54 --> 4180.74] the things of this world -[4180.74 --> 4181.68] that Jesus loves -[4181.68 --> 4182.92] sort of as options -[4182.92 --> 4185.40] or like daily things -[4185.40 --> 4185.92] that we can -[4185.92 --> 4186.62] or cannot do, -[4187.30 --> 4188.18] we should be growing -[4188.18 --> 4188.76] in them. -[4188.84 --> 4190.36] We should be pursuing them. -[4190.42 --> 4191.54] We should be practicing them, -[4191.66 --> 4192.22] living them out -[4192.22 --> 4192.94] in our lives. -[4193.56 --> 4194.34] The kids right now -[4194.34 --> 4194.82] in our church, -[4195.02 --> 4196.10] they're in children's worship time. -[4196.10 --> 4196.78] They're talking about -[4196.78 --> 4197.68] the fruits of the spirit -[4197.68 --> 4198.66] and they're going to be doing that -[4198.66 --> 4199.50] for the next few weeks. -[4200.10 --> 4200.62] Those fruits, -[4200.72 --> 4201.28] they're all listed -[4201.28 --> 4202.16] in Galatians 5. -[4202.24 --> 4202.94] I'm sure some of you -[4202.94 --> 4203.38] know songs -[4203.38 --> 4204.18] that you could list them. -[4204.68 --> 4206.14] But those are perfect examples -[4206.14 --> 4207.74] of things that Jesus loves. -[4208.48 --> 4209.86] And they're perfect examples -[4209.86 --> 4211.60] of what we should be growing in -[4211.60 --> 4212.30] because of Christ, -[4212.44 --> 4212.82] our groom. -[4214.04 --> 4214.62] For example, -[4216.22 --> 4217.60] you've got decisions to make. -[4218.10 --> 4219.26] You can grow in love -[4219.26 --> 4221.92] or you can love others -[4221.92 --> 4222.60] as commodities, -[4223.12 --> 4224.08] doing away with people -[4224.08 --> 4225.44] when they become of no use to you. -[4226.34 --> 4227.60] You can grow in joy -[4227.60 --> 4229.36] or you can choose -[4229.36 --> 4230.04] to view the world -[4230.04 --> 4231.14] around you apathetically. -[4232.20 --> 4233.50] You can grow in peace -[4233.50 --> 4235.12] or you can stir up gossip -[4235.12 --> 4236.04] amongst your community. -[4236.40 --> 4237.52] You can grow in patience -[4237.52 --> 4239.52] or you can live impatiently. -[4239.70 --> 4240.80] You can grow in kindness -[4240.80 --> 4242.52] or you can dwell in ignorance. -[4243.26 --> 4244.36] You can grow in goodness -[4244.36 --> 4245.90] or you can breed disloyalty. -[4246.28 --> 4247.60] You can grow in faithfulness -[4247.60 --> 4248.74] or you can flip-flop -[4248.74 --> 4250.28] on your friends and your God. -[4250.44 --> 4251.66] You can grow in gentleness -[4251.66 --> 4253.04] or you can be abrasive -[4253.04 --> 4253.70] in the relationships -[4253.70 --> 4254.38] that you have. -[4254.58 --> 4256.44] You can grow in self-control -[4256.44 --> 4258.36] or you can do whatever you want. -[4260.00 --> 4261.36] Our marriage to Christ -[4261.36 --> 4262.94] changes everything -[4262.94 --> 4264.40] about the way we live. -[4265.46 --> 4266.96] We are called to live -[4266.96 --> 4268.34] how He wants us to live -[4268.34 --> 4271.02] because we want to please Him. -[4271.68 --> 4273.82] He wants to please us. -[4273.94 --> 4275.04] We want to please Him. -[4275.14 --> 4276.06] That's how this intimate -[4276.06 --> 4277.16] relationship works. -[4277.54 --> 4279.04] So when sin tempts us now, -[4279.42 --> 4280.16] we can remember -[4280.16 --> 4281.42] that through Christ's death -[4281.42 --> 4282.48] and resurrection, -[4283.56 --> 4284.92] we died as well -[4284.92 --> 4286.14] and were resurrected -[4286.14 --> 4287.48] into this new life. -[4288.02 --> 4288.90] We have the ability -[4288.90 --> 4290.58] to pursue our new love, -[4290.72 --> 4291.58] Jesus Christ, -[4292.02 --> 4294.10] and grow in the fruit -[4294.10 --> 4295.20] that He calls us to bear. -[4297.22 --> 4298.38] Verse 5 and 6. -[4299.38 --> 4300.34] For when we were -[4300.34 --> 4301.46] in the realm of the flesh, -[4301.58 --> 4302.56] the sinful passions -[4302.56 --> 4305.08] aroused us by the law -[4305.08 --> 4306.22] were at work in us -[4306.22 --> 4308.16] so that we bore fruit for death. -[4308.16 --> 4309.84] But now by dying -[4309.84 --> 4311.12] to what once bound us, -[4311.34 --> 4312.66] we have been released -[4312.66 --> 4313.80] from the law -[4313.80 --> 4314.70] so that we serve -[4314.70 --> 4315.30] in the new way -[4315.30 --> 4315.82] of the Spirit. -[4317.90 --> 4319.32] So please take this home -[4319.32 --> 4319.88] with you today. -[4320.82 --> 4322.06] We are now bound -[4322.06 --> 4322.88] with Christ, -[4323.12 --> 4324.58] bearing fruit for God. -[4326.00 --> 4327.60] Not for means of salvation, -[4327.80 --> 4328.90] but because we are bound -[4328.90 --> 4330.18] to Christ in a new life, -[4330.42 --> 4331.28] in a new marriage, -[4331.52 --> 4332.24] in new hope, -[4332.62 --> 4333.58] and in a new calling -[4333.58 --> 4335.10] to love what our Savior loves -[4335.10 --> 4335.78] and pursue -[4335.78 --> 4337.18] what our Savior loves. -[4337.18 --> 4337.58] And so, -[4337.74 --> 4339.04] with grateful joy -[4339.04 --> 4340.52] and intimate love -[4340.52 --> 4341.34] for our groom, -[4341.80 --> 4342.60] Christ's bride, -[4342.72 --> 4343.48] all of us, -[4344.48 --> 4345.96] we can live in this world -[4345.96 --> 4347.66] called and compelled -[4347.66 --> 4349.20] to produce the fruits -[4349.20 --> 4349.86] of the Spirit -[4349.86 --> 4351.00] which God loves -[4351.00 --> 4352.20] so much. -[4353.68 --> 4356.10] May we pursue Christ -[4356.10 --> 4357.84] always and forever. -[4358.06 --> 4358.46] Let's pray. -[4358.46 --> 4358.54] Amen. -[4362.36 --> 4363.54] Father in heaven, -[4363.54 --> 4365.60] God, -[4365.68 --> 4366.26] we are -[4366.26 --> 4369.80] unbelievably grateful -[4369.80 --> 4371.70] for your death -[4371.70 --> 4372.36] and resurrection, -[4373.10 --> 4373.22] Lord, -[4373.26 --> 4374.42] because as you died -[4374.42 --> 4375.44] to defeat sin and death, -[4375.56 --> 4377.10] we are able to die with you -[4377.10 --> 4378.00] and have been reborn. -[4378.60 --> 4380.00] And now we are not bound -[4380.00 --> 4380.74] to the law. -[4380.84 --> 4381.60] We are not bound -[4381.60 --> 4382.60] to sin anymore. -[4382.70 --> 4383.78] We are bound to you, -[4384.12 --> 4385.86] the Savior of all things. -[4386.52 --> 4386.72] And so, -[4386.80 --> 4386.94] God, -[4386.98 --> 4388.90] may we not look at the law -[4388.90 --> 4390.22] or look at the sins -[4390.22 --> 4390.72] of this world -[4390.72 --> 4391.28] as something -[4391.28 --> 4392.86] that is a checklist -[4392.86 --> 4393.98] that we are checking -[4393.98 --> 4395.18] or that you are keeping score of, -[4395.22 --> 4395.78] but rather, -[4396.20 --> 4397.74] may we look to the law -[4397.74 --> 4398.92] and see it for what it is, -[4399.30 --> 4400.38] markers of righteousness -[4400.38 --> 4402.14] for you. -[4402.90 --> 4404.44] May we live out -[4404.44 --> 4405.80] pursuing and bearing -[4405.80 --> 4407.14] the fruits of the Spirit. -[4409.06 --> 4410.86] May we show your love -[4410.86 --> 4411.96] to each other -[4411.96 --> 4414.06] and to the world around us, -[4414.72 --> 4416.54] not so that you will save us, -[4416.58 --> 4416.94] because God, -[4417.00 --> 4417.84] you've done that already, -[4418.54 --> 4420.18] but so that they will see -[4420.18 --> 4421.62] that you are king -[4421.62 --> 4424.12] and that they will see -[4424.12 --> 4426.56] that you are our groom -[4426.56 --> 4428.30] and we are your bride -[4428.30 --> 4429.04] and your disciples. -[4430.30 --> 4431.78] May that be the focal point -[4431.78 --> 4433.80] of our lives going forward. -[4433.92 --> 4434.68] In your name we pray. -[4434.88 --> 4435.08] Amen. -[4435.08 --> 4435.18] Amen. -[4435.18 --> 4435.24] Amen. -[4435.24 --> 4435.30] Amen. -[4435.30 --> 4437.24] Amen. -[4437.24 --> 4439.24] Amen. -[4439.24 --> 4439.30] Amen. -[4439.30 --> 4441.24] Amen. -[4441.24 --> 4441.30] Amen. -[4441.30 --> 4443.24] Amen. -[4443.24 --> 4445.24] Amen. -[4445.24 --> 4447.24] Amen. -[4447.24 --> 4447.30] Amen. -[4447.30 --> 4447.32] Amen. -[4447.32 --> 4447.36] Amen. -[4447.36 --> 4447.42] Amen. -[4447.42 --> 4448.36] Amen. -[4448.36 --> 4448.42] Amen. -[4448.42 --> 4449.42] Amen. -[4449.42 --> 4449.50] Amen. -[4450.18 --> 4465.32] Amen. -[4479.82 --> 4480.16] Amen. -[4480.16 --> 4492.16] to serve but to serve and gave your life that we might live -[4492.16 --> 4505.54] this is our god the servant king he calls us now to follow him -[4505.54 --> 4519.54] to bring on us as a daily offering of worship to the servant king -[4519.54 --> 4527.14] there in the garden of tears -[4527.14 --> 4534.14] my heavy load he chose to bear -[4534.14 --> 4541.14] his heart with sorrow was torn -[4541.14 --> 4548.14] yet not my will but yours he said -[4548.14 --> 4555.14] this is our god the servant king -[4555.14 --> 4562.14] he calls us now to follow him -[4562.14 --> 4577.14] to bring our lives as a daily offering of worship to the servant king -[4577.14 --> 4584.14] come see his hands and his feet -[4584.14 --> 4592.14] the scars that speak of sacrifice -[4592.14 --> 4599.14] hands that flung stars into space -[4599.14 --> 4606.14] to cruel males -[4606.14 --> 4613.14] this is our god the servant king -[4613.14 --> 4620.14] he calls us now to follow him -[4620.14 --> 4634.14] to bring our lives as a daily offering of worship to the servant king -[4634.14 --> 4641.14] so let us learn how to serve -[4641.14 --> 4648.14] and in our lives enthroned him -[4648.14 --> 4653.14] each other's needs to prepare -[4653.14 --> 4660.14] for it is christ -[4660.14 --> 4665.14] christ -[4665.14 --> 4667.14] this is our god the servant king -[4667.14 --> 4671.14] this is our god the servant king -[4671.14 --> 4675.14] he calls us now to follow him -[4675.14 --> 4690.14] to bring our lives as a daily offering of worship to the servant king -[4690.14 --> 4697.14] the servant king -[4697.14 --> 4700.14] before we go from this place -[4700.14 --> 4702.14] this place hear god's parting blessing -[4702.14 --> 4707.14] and also please know that there are people ready to pray for you today -[4707.14 --> 4709.14] they're wearing name tags that are in yellow -[4709.14 --> 4711.14] so if you need prayer today for anything -[4711.14 --> 4712.14] please seek one of them out -[4712.14 --> 4714.14] there's going to be i believe one up front and one in the back -[4714.14 --> 4717.14] and also please stick around for some refreshments -[4717.14 --> 4718.14] it's a nice day -[4718.14 --> 4719.14] come have some coffee -[4719.14 --> 4722.14] chat with your brothers and sisters in christ -[4722.14 --> 4725.14] and now hear god's blessing parting blessing -[4725.14 --> 4727.14] from numbers six -[4727.14 --> 4730.14] the lord bless you and keep you -[4730.14 --> 4734.14] the lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you -[4734.14 --> 4739.14] the lord turn his face towards you and give you his peace -[4739.14 --> 4741.14] and all god's people said -[4741.14 --> 4742.14] amen -[4755.14 --> 4764.14] my friends may you grow in grace -[4764.14 --> 4770.14] and in the knowledge of our lord and saviour -[4770.14 --> 4776.14] my friends may you grow in grace -[4776.14 --> 4781.14] and in the knowledge of our lord and saviour -[4781.14 --> 4794.14] my friends may you grow in grace -[4794.14 --> 4800.14] and in the knowledge of jesus christ -[4800.14 --> 4804.14] to god be the glory -[4804.14 --> 4815.14] now and forever -[4815.14 --> 4817.14] now and forever -[4817.14 --> 4818.14] now and forever -[4818.14 --> 4819.14] now and forever -[4819.14 --> 4821.14] now and forever -[4821.14 --> 4822.14] amen -[4822.14 --> 4823.14] to god be the glory -[4823.14 --> 4826.14] now and forever -[4826.14 --> 4827.14] amen -[4827.14 --> 4828.02] Amen. -[4830.64 --> 4837.34] My friends, may you grow in grace -[4837.34 --> 4843.18] and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior. -[4844.90 --> 4851.98] My friends, may you grow in grace -[4851.98 --> 4859.18] and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. -[4859.18 --> 4866.24] To God be the glory, now and forever, -[4867.46 --> 4871.74] now and forever, amen. -[4873.84 --> 4880.56] To God be the glory, now and forever, -[4880.56 --> 4886.02] now and forever, amen. -[4888.32 --> 4895.28] To God be the glory, now and forever, -[4896.70 --> 4900.64] now and forever, amen. -[4900.64 --> 4910.78] To God be the glory, now and forever, -[4910.78 --> 4917.32] now and forever, amen. -[4917.32 --> 4919.32] Amen. -[4919.32 --> 4927.58] Good night. -[4927.58 --> 4957.56] Thank you. -[4957.58 --> 4987.56] Thank you. -[4987.58 --> 5017.56] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 22, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 22, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 9283a2f74966b90a90d296ab5e9a27a0a588101e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 22, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,109 +0,0 @@ -• The speaker's love is not based on external appearance or behavior -• The speaker wants to be accepted as they are, without pretenses -• The speaker's love has the power to transform and forgive -• The speaker emphasizes the importance of living freely in God's love and mercy -• The speaker encourages embracing one's true identity and value in Christ -• Discussion of a deceased person's status as being "already moving" beyond physical death -• Announcements for the church community, including a pastors' class and an evening of praise and prayer on Ascension Day -• Invitation to join in worship and singing at the praise and prayer service -• Reading from Revelation 15 and songs of worship and praise -• Prayers and confessions for guidance and purification -• Requests for healing, strength, and deliverance from sin -• Longing to be holy and set apart for God -• Repentance and turning away from evil things and idols -• Desires for a generation that sings the praises of God -• Humility and surrender to God's will -• Worship and tithes/offering -• Wagner Hills ministry for recovery -• Transformation of over 5,000 people through the farm's program -• Equipping residents with skills for a successful life after the program -• Upcoming offering for Team Challenge -• Bible verse from Philippians 4:6-7 on prayer and peace -• Prayer requests and Holy Spirit's presence -• Call to surrender to Christ's ways -• Unity in serving others -• Update on church council meeting: - + Research report on young adult ministry success - + Nominations for elder positions - + Pastoral reports from Chris and Kevin -• Upcoming events: volunteer training day, congregational meeting -• Discussion about summer activities -• Young children seeing pictures of their parents when they were young -• Leader asking how old he is and showing pictures from his past -• Upcoming 50th birthday celebration -• Prayer for Louise Rezabos who had a brain aneurysm -• Continued prayer for COVID and its impact on the community -• Gratitude for opportunities to relax and reconnect with others -• Prayer for safety while traveling or engaging in activities -• Worship and prayer for restoration of hearts and souls -• Thanking God for presence and nearness in daily life -• Prayer for specific individuals in need of healing and support -• Continuation of prayer for those affected by COVID-19 -• Mourning the loss of Arnold and Joanne and praying for comfort -• Prayer for the Alexander family during their time of mourning -• Request for peace and guidance in difficult times, even when questions and answers are unclear -• Hope in the return of Jesus Christ as a source of comfort and strength -• Prayer for the church's needs, particularly for pastoral elders to be called and equipped -• Gratitude for God's call on individuals' lives to serve and lead -• Request for the congregation to hear God's voice and trust in His equipping -• Acknowledgment that the work is done for God's glory and with His spirit -• Prayer for spiritual filling and guidance as the congregation comes to worship -• Introduction to a review quiz with four multiple-choice questions -• Questions about the book being studied (Jude) -• Discussion of the authorship of Jude and related biblical figures -• Review of key concepts from the previous two weeks, including a definition of "gruntled" -• Conclusion of a sermon series and introduction to the final two verses of Jude -• The importance of exalting Jesus above all in this life -• Warning against errant ways and worldly doctrines that have infiltrated the church, such as cheap grace, social good, and antinominalism -• The rejection of laws and extreme individualism -• The truth that there's no ultimate good apart from Jesus and that we must abide in him to do anything eternally good -• Our calling, keeping, and cherishing by God -• God's immutability and His unchanging love for us -• The importance of remembering His word because He remembered us -• Reading and analysis of a biblical passage -• Understanding Jesus' role in the passage as both beginning and end -• Discussion of Jesus' love, sacrifice, and worthiness -• Explanation of Jesus' willingness to suffer for humanity's sin -• Reflection on Jesus' perfect life and death, which allows humans to escape their deserved punishment -• The significance of Jesus' resurrection and its connection to sin, death, mercy, grace, and forgiveness -• The importance of remembering the gospel truth every day, not just in church -• Jesus' role as Lord and Savior who has ascended to heaven and is reigning over all the cosmos -• Two ways Jesus intervenes in our lives: keeping us from stumbling and presenting us blameless before God's throne -• Understanding that this is an eternal perspective, not a moment-to-moment one; salvation is assured and certain for those who believe -• God's nature is unchanging -• His promises, including salvation, cannot change -• Once saved, one is always saved due to eternal and unchangeable nature of salvation -• Doubt about God's existence or operation in the world is natural and acceptable -• Salvation is not dependent on human actions or decisions, but rather a gift from God through Jesus Christ -• True faith in Jesus cannot be lost, making salvation eternal and irreversible -• The concept of Jesus guarding believers and keeping them from stumbling eternally -• Salvation belonging to God, not humans, and being certain and assured -• Jesus as the great shepherd who guards and keeps believers for eternity -• Salvation cannot be earned or lost, but is obtained through Christ on the cross and maintained by Him -• The speaker discusses God's grace and forgiveness through the example of canceling debt -• Debt is used as a metaphor for sin, with Jesus forgiving our debt at the cross and empty tomb -• The concept of double imputation is introduced, where both forgiveness and righteousness are given to believers -• Believers are not only forgiven, but also made holy and presented blameless in God's presence -• The good news of the gospel is summarized as an offer of mercy, glory, and a greater inheritance than what was lost through sin -• Theology that leads to doxology -• Expressions of gratitude and praise in response to salvation and forgiveness -• Changing one's scope of reality and perspective when understanding the magnitude of God's actions -• An anecdote about a child experiencing a new perspective on her world from a plane ride -• Response to God's gifts should be a life of praise -• Worshiping God is not just singing, but living lives that reflect praise -• The Israelites' mission was to worship God when leaving Egypt and rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem -• Jesus' purpose for coming into the world was to call people to worship and praise Him -• Our lives, calling, and mission should be a response of praise to God's gifts -• The ultimate goal of the church is worship -• Worship is more important than missions because God is ultimate and missions are a temporary necessity -• Salvation belongs to God, not man -• Our lives should be spent praising God -• The church is encouraged to respond to the message in praise to God through song -• The congregation is reminded that their salvation is secure and they are viewed as blameless in God's eyes -• A doxology from Jude is recited, attributing praise and glory to God forever and ever. -• The salvation of Jesus Christ comes from his life, death, and resurrection. -• Sin is forgiven and believers are made righteous through faith in Jesus. -• Believers are considered blameless in God's sight due to their righteousness in Christ. -• Prayers for living a life of praise to God and receiving His peace. -• The priestly blessing is given from number six. -• A benediction is offered, with prayers that God will bless, keep, and give peace to the congregation. \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 22, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 22, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 894817e9079b6e2d0f08e65112a14ca9b4ab0524..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 22, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1733 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 14.04] I am ready to shine, cause he's making diamonds out of dust, making diamonds out of us. -[30.00 --> 53.84] I want you as you are, not as you ought to be. Won't you lay down your guard and come to me? The shame that grips you now is crippling. It breaks my heart to see you suffering. -[53.84 --> 77.64] Cause I am for you, I'm not against you. If you wanna know how far my love can go, just how deep, just how wide. If you wanna see how much you mean to me, look at my hands, look at my side. -[77.64 --> 86.64] If you could count the times that say you are forgiven, it's more than the drops in the ocean. -[86.64 --> 103.44] Don't think you need to settle for a substitute. When I'm the only love that changes you. -[103.44 --> 126.58] I am for you, I'm not against you. If you wanna know how far my love can go, just how deep, just how wide. -[126.58 --> 133.58] If you wanna see how much you mean to me, look at my hands, look at my side. -[134.48 --> 142.58] If you could count the times that say you are forgiven, it's more than the drops in the ocean. -[147.58 --> 149.58] It's more than the drops in the ocean. -[149.58 --> 154.58] Open your heart, it's time that we start again. -[157.48 --> 161.58] Open your heart, it's time that we start again. -[164.58 --> 171.58] If you wanna know how far my love can go, just how deep, just how wide. -[171.58 --> 179.48] If you wanna see how much you mean to me, look at my hands, look at my side. -[179.48 --> 188.48] If you could count the times that say you are forgiven, it's more than the drops in the ocean. -[188.48 --> 195.48] The drops in the ocean. -[195.48 --> 200.48] You say you are the ones that areлять. -[200.48 --> 200.88] Think you aretermilки. -[201.88 --> 203.38] I melodic. -[203.38 --> 204.18] Think you are right on the ocean. -[204.18 --> 206.68] Think you are what we're going to see. -[206.68 --> 208.28] Think sometimes the street to part of someone who's got to feel. -[208.28 --> 209.98] Think it to me. -[210.98 --> 211.94] Think maybe they are gone alone. -[212.68 --> 215.68] Think a myth but they guess what you are. -[215.68 --> 217.98] Think orы? -[217.98 --> 221.86] Think it's time that subscribe to people interpret the music. -[221.86 --> 222.88] Think it's time if they have to learn more. -[222.88 --> 223.88] Think the locution. -[223.88 --> 224.88] Think it's time for you. -[224.88 --> 241.74] you're not the only one who feels like this feeling like you lose more than you win -[241.74 --> 250.00] like life is just an endless hill you climb you try and try but never arrive -[250.00 --> 258.00] i'm telling you something this racing this running oh you're working way too hard -[258.00 --> 266.00] and this perfection you're chasing is just energy wasted because he loves you like you are -[266.00 --> 274.06] so go ahead and live like you're loved it's okay to act like you've been set free -[274.06 --> 282.30] his love has made you more than enough so go ahead and be who he made you to be -[282.30 --> 290.30] live like you're loved -[290.30 --> 294.30] live like you're loved -[294.30 --> 298.30] live like you're loved -[298.30 --> 306.30] live like you know you're valuable like you know the one that holds your soul -[306.30 --> 314.30] cuz mercy has called you by your name don't be afraid to live in that grace -[314.30 --> 322.30] oh i'm telling you something this god we believe in yeah he changed everything -[322.30 --> 330.30] no more guilt no more shame he took all that away gave us a reason to sing -[330.30 --> 346.30] so go ahead and be who he made you to be -[346.30 --> 358.30] live like you're loved -[358.30 --> 362.30] live like you're loved -[362.30 --> 366.24] Live like you're loved, walk like you're free -[366.24 --> 370.26] Stand like you know who we made you to be -[370.26 --> 374.26] Live like you're loved, like you believe -[374.26 --> 378.30] His love is all that you'll ever need -[378.30 --> 381.48] So go ahead and live like you're loved -[381.48 --> 389.50] His love has made you more than enough -[392.30 --> 397.48] So go ahead and live like you're loved -[397.48 --> 402.12] It's okay to act like you've been set free -[402.12 --> 405.80] His love has made you more than enough -[405.80 --> 410.32] So go ahead and be who he made you to be -[410.32 --> 413.14] And live like you're loved -[413.14 --> 417.44] Live like you're loved -[417.44 --> 420.22] Live like you're loved -[420.22 --> 424.22] Live like you're loved -[424.22 --> 426.40] Live like you're loved -[426.40 --> 428.32] Live like you're loved -[428.32 --> 430.26] Walk like you're free -[430.26 --> 434.28] Stand like you know who we made you to be -[434.28 --> 436.40] Live like you're loved -[436.40 --> 438.34] Like you believe -[438.34 --> 442.32] His love is all that you'll ever need -[442.32 --> 444.22] Live like you're loved -[444.22 --> 450.40] When you're at the end of the road -[450.40 --> 454.22] And it's not the one that you would have chosen -[454.22 --> 456.40] When you're at the end of the road -[456.40 --> 466.40] When you're at the end of the road -[466.40 --> 470.40] And it's not the one that you would have chosen -[470.40 --> 472.40] When you're at the end of your road -[472.40 --> 474.40] And you're holding on -[474.40 --> 476.40] And you're holding on -[476.40 --> 478.40] But feel like you're falling -[478.40 --> 482.40] With every option exhausted -[482.40 --> 486.40] You tried everything you know -[486.40 --> 490.40] You saw light then you lost it -[490.40 --> 494.40] But there is still hope -[494.40 --> 498.28] Like the fire in the night -[498.28 --> 502.24] Like the ocean parted wide -[502.24 --> 505.40] Like the grave empty inside -[505.40 --> 507.40] You will see -[507.40 --> 509.40] He's still dead -[509.40 --> 511.40] Miracles -[511.40 --> 513.40] Miracles -[513.40 --> 515.40] Miracles -[515.40 --> 517.40] Miracles -[517.40 --> 521.40] Even if you don't see it now -[521.40 --> 523.40] Without a doubt -[523.40 --> 525.40] He's already moving -[525.40 --> 529.40] There's not a pain that you hold -[529.40 --> 531.40] You're holding on -[531.40 --> 533.40] You're holding on -[535.40 --> 540.40] Good -[540.40 --> 541.40] Morning -[541.40 --> 544.40] If you weren't awake now you are -[544.40 --> 547.40] Welcome to church -[547.40 --> 550.40] Special welcome if you are visiting with us this morning -[550.40 --> 551.40] My name is Chris -[551.40 --> 553.40] I'm one of the pastors here -[553.40 --> 555.40] And myself and along with these on stage -[555.40 --> 557.40] And yet a few others -[557.40 --> 560.40] Are privileged to lead us in our worship together -[560.40 --> 561.40] This morning -[561.40 --> 563.40] Before we begin -[563.40 --> 565.40] There are a couple announcements to make -[565.40 --> 566.40] First -[566.40 --> 568.40] Even though it is the long weekend -[568.40 --> 572.40] Pastors class is happening after service today -[572.40 --> 574.40] And so if you are part of pastors class -[574.40 --> 576.40] Please stick around for that -[576.40 --> 577.40] If you don't know what that is -[577.40 --> 579.40] You can grab me after church -[579.40 --> 580.40] And we can talk about that -[580.40 --> 583.40] But that's if you're interested in making a profession of faith -[583.40 --> 587.40] To become part of our church community together -[587.40 --> 590.40] Also -[590.40 --> 595.40] We want to invite you to an evening of praise and prayer -[595.40 --> 598.40] That's going to happen this coming Thursday -[598.40 --> 601.40] In celebration of Ascension Day -[601.40 --> 605.40] So Ascension Day is the day that we mark throughout the Christian calendar -[605.40 --> 607.40] The ascension of Jesus -[607.40 --> 613.40] The return of Jesus up to heaven after living, dying, and rising here on earth -[613.40 --> 617.40] And so we mark that and we acknowledge there the kingship of Jesus -[617.40 --> 620.40] And so you maybe saw it in the pre-service slide loop -[620.40 --> 622.40] But there's going to be a praise and prayer service -[622.40 --> 627.40] We're going to do a lot of singing beginning at 7 o'clock on Thursday night -[627.40 --> 631.40] And so join us for that in person and online -[631.40 --> 635.40] Although it's going to be much better because we're doing so much singing in person -[635.40 --> 636.40] I assure you of that -[636.40 --> 640.40] I think that's all the announcements for this morning and this week -[640.40 --> 643.40] There'll be a couple others when we move through the service -[643.40 --> 647.40] And so I'm going to invite you as you're able to rise together -[647.40 --> 651.40] And we can receive the greeting of our God -[654.40 --> 657.40] We gather in the presence of our God -[657.40 --> 660.40] And He greets us in His name -[660.40 --> 664.40] Grace, mercy, and peace to you -[664.40 --> 668.40] From God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, His Son, and our Savior -[668.40 --> 671.40] Through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit -[671.40 --> 674.40] Amen -[678.40 --> 683.40] Our call to worship this morning comes from Revelation 15 -[683.40 --> 688.40] Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty -[688.40 --> 694.40] Just and true are your ways, King of the nations -[694.40 --> 699.40] Who will not fear you, Lord, and bring glory to your name -[699.40 --> 702.40] For you alone are holy -[702.40 --> 706.40] All nations will come and worship before you -[706.40 --> 710.40] For your righteous acts have been revealed -[710.40 --> 737.40] Father into your courts I will enter -[737.40 --> 758.70] courts I will enter, maker of heaven and earth. I tremble in your holy presence. Glory, glory in your sanctuary. -[758.70 --> 781.48] Glory, splendor and majesty, Lord. Before you, all life adores you. All the earth will declare that your love is everywhere. -[781.48 --> 802.66] The fields will exalt, seeds resound. Hear the trees joyful cry, praising you and so will I. -[802.66 --> 815.86] The news of the sea, Lord, I will glorify and bless your holy name. -[815.86 --> 834.74] Jesus, Lord of all life and salvation, into your presence we come. -[834.74 --> 849.94] We worship you, our precious Savior. Fill us, fill us with your holy power. -[849.94 --> 862.20] Set us a flame with your love. Till nations will know your glory. -[862.20 --> 871.56] For the earth will declare that your love is everywhere. -[871.56 --> 873.56] The fields will declare that your love is everywhere. -[873.56 --> 891.56] The fields will exalt, seeds resound. Hear the trees joyful cry, praising you and so will I. -[891.56 --> 902.56] A new song I'll sing. Lord, I will glorify and bless your holy name. -[902.56 --> 916.56] Glorify and bless your holy name. -[916.56 --> 922.88] Glorify and bless you, Timothy God bless you and verse you and worship you. -[922.88 --> 927.56] A new song on Father's 보 rant shows you and Berufs you and your beloved name. -[927.56 --> 928.50] ément樹ülácele -[928.50 --> 930.56] some talentado -[930.56 --> 931.56] Remembering your holy name. -[931.56 --> 933.46] One muchísimo time ago. -[933.46 --> 936.26] This spiritual ayamou Him. -[936.26 --> 937.68] Him Aaamalim -[937.68 --> 938.56] Wise David -[938.56 --> 940.44] With something on Father's For should you -[940.44 --> 941.62] Eeek -[941.62 --> 942.66] God bless you. -[942.66 --> 956.14] Guide me, O my great redeemer, -[956.14 --> 961.66] Welcome to this caring night. -[961.96 --> 966.82] I am with you, but you are mine. -[967.46 --> 972.26] Hold me with your love for me. -[972.66 --> 977.58] Where the heaven, where the heaven, -[978.24 --> 981.98] Faith me now and evermore. -[982.98 --> 988.98] Faith me now and evermore. -[992.48 --> 998.12] Open now in the crystal fountain, -[998.12 --> 1003.30] Where the healing waters flow. -[1003.98 --> 1008.12] Let the fire and cloudy pillar, -[1008.12 --> 1013.12] Feed me all my journey through. -[1014.12 --> 1019.12] Strong deliver, strong deliver, -[1019.12 --> 1024.12] Never be wasting share. -[1024.98 --> 1030.44] Never be in my strength and shame. -[1030.44 --> 1040.44] When I tear the fudge of Jordan, -[1040.44 --> 1045.76] In my anxious peace of sight, -[1045.76 --> 1050.44] When the death of hell's destruction, -[1050.44 --> 1056.44] Let me save the light and sunny. -[1056.44 --> 1066.44] I will never sing to you. -[1066.44 --> 1072.44] I will never sing to you. -[1072.44 --> 1078.44] Songs of praises, songs of praises, -[1078.44 --> 1083.44] I will never sing to you. -[1083.44 --> 1091.44] I will never sing to you. -[1091.44 --> 1096.54] Please join me in a prayer of confession. -[1099.30 --> 1100.84] Guide us, O Lord, -[1101.38 --> 1103.38] As we walk through this barren land. -[1103.96 --> 1106.34] Our sins leave our lives dry, -[1106.86 --> 1108.68] Hopeless, and devoid of joy. -[1109.58 --> 1111.62] We are weak, but you, -[1112.10 --> 1113.58] Only you are mighty. -[1114.48 --> 1116.26] Hold us with your powerful hand. -[1116.26 --> 1120.40] Let your healing streams flow in our lives, Lord. -[1120.40 --> 1123.40] You are our strong deliverer. -[1123.40 --> 1125.36] Purify our hearts. -[1125.36 --> 1127.00] Set us apart. -[1127.00 --> 1128.14] Make us holy. -[1128.14 --> 1130.58] Be our strength and shield. -[1130.58 --> 1132.54] In Christ's name we pray. -[1132.54 --> 1133.46] Amen. -[1146.26 --> 1164.28] Purify my heart. -[1164.28 --> 1171.36] Let me be as gold and precious silver. -[1171.86 --> 1175.70] Purify my heart. -[1175.70 --> 1179.66] Let me be as gold. -[1179.66 --> 1182.88] Pure gold. -[1182.88 --> 1187.94] Breathe thine as gold. -[1187.94 --> 1192.02] My heart's one desire -[1192.02 --> 1198.74] Is to be holy. -[1200.52 --> 1204.58] Set apart for you, Lord. -[1204.58 --> 1209.72] I choose to be holy. -[1209.72 --> 1216.46] Set apart for you, my master. -[1216.46 --> 1221.50] Ready to do your will. -[1225.76 --> 1229.76] Purify my heart. -[1229.76 --> 1231.10] Cleanse me from within. -[1231.10 --> 1234.02] Clean me from within. -[1234.02 --> 1236.62] And make me holy. -[1236.94 --> 1240.98] Purify my heart. -[1240.98 --> 1244.64] Clean me from my sin. -[1244.64 --> 1248.08] Deep within. -[1248.08 --> 1251.90] Leave my new smile. -[1251.90 --> 1256.94] My heart's one desire -[1256.94 --> 1263.12] Is to be holy -[1263.12 --> 1268.96] Set apart for you, Lord -[1268.96 --> 1274.10] I choose to be holy -[1274.10 --> 1280.56] Set apart for you, my master -[1280.56 --> 1285.26] Ready to do your will -[1310.56 --> 1321.18] We bow our hearts -[1321.18 --> 1324.56] We bend our knees -[1324.56 --> 1328.26] Oh, Spirit, come make us humble -[1328.26 --> 1334.96] We turn our arms -[1334.96 --> 1338.30] From evil things -[1338.30 --> 1342.68] Oh, Lord, we cast down our idols -[1342.68 --> 1346.44] Give us clean hands -[1346.44 --> 1350.10] Give us new hearts -[1350.10 --> 1355.60] Let us not lift our souls to another -[1355.60 --> 1359.72] Give us clean hands -[1359.72 --> 1363.38] Give us pure hearts -[1363.38 --> 1368.80] Let us not lift our souls to another -[1368.80 --> 1373.88] And God, let us be a generation -[1373.88 --> 1378.78] That sings, that sings your face -[1378.78 --> 1382.34] Oh, God of Jacob -[1382.34 --> 1386.80] And God, let us be a generation -[1386.80 --> 1391.96] That sings, that sings your face -[1391.96 --> 1395.66] Oh, God of Jacob -[1395.66 --> 1404.96] We bow our hearts -[1404.96 --> 1408.30] We bend our knees -[1408.30 --> 1411.92] Oh, Spirit, come make us humble -[1411.92 --> 1417.62] We turn our eyes -[1417.62 --> 1418.62] We turn our eyes -[1418.62 --> 1420.62] From evil things -[1420.62 --> 1425.62] Oh, Lord, we cast down our idols -[1425.62 --> 1428.62] Give us clean hands -[1428.62 --> 1432.92] Give us pure hearts -[1432.92 --> 1438.34] Let us not lift our souls to another -[1438.34 --> 1442.34] Give us clean hands -[1442.34 --> 1445.92] Give us pure hearts -[1445.92 --> 1451.42] Let us not lift our souls to another -[1451.42 --> 1456.24] And God, let us be a generation -[1456.24 --> 1461.02] That sings, that sings your face -[1461.02 --> 1464.72] Oh, God of Jacob -[1464.72 --> 1465.72] Oh, God of Jacob -[1465.72 --> 1469.16] Oh, God, let us be a generation -[1469.16 --> 1473.92] That sings, that sings your face -[1473.92 --> 1477.42] Oh, God of Jacob -[1477.42 --> 1486.82] We bow our hearts -[1486.82 --> 1489.72] We bend our knees -[1489.72 --> 1494.62] O Spirit, come make us humble -[1494.62 --> 1521.06] We continue to worship -[1521.06 --> 1522.88] with the giving of our tithes and offerings -[1522.88 --> 1525.14] Today's offerings are for Wagner Hills -[1525.14 --> 1526.58] and for our church's budget -[1526.58 --> 1528.98] Throughout the past 40 years -[1528.98 --> 1531.34] over 5,000 people have come to the farm -[1531.34 --> 1533.32] seeking transformation and support -[1533.32 --> 1535.92] Wagner Hills started simply with a vision -[1535.92 --> 1538.26] to help people on the road to recovery -[1538.26 --> 1541.24] find a safe and life-giving place to work -[1541.24 --> 1543.72] breathe and escape some of their difficulties -[1543.72 --> 1546.86] This vision has blossomed into a thriving ministry -[1546.86 --> 1550.04] through which thousands of lives -[1550.04 --> 1550.90] have been transformed -[1550.90 --> 1554.66] The farm equips men and women recovering from addiction -[1554.66 --> 1561.12] with the safety and skills to grow, heal, and lead successful lives after the program -[1561.12 --> 1564.64] Their compassionate staff and high-quality educators -[1564.64 --> 1569.36] work with the residents to develop a program that sets them up for success -[1569.36 --> 1572.62] into their recovery journey -[1572.62 --> 1577.82] This program includes goal-setting, skill training on the farm or the office -[1577.82 --> 1581.28] professional counseling and a community that believes in them -[1581.28 --> 1584.40] From Philippians 4, verses 6-7 -[1584.40 --> 1586.94] Do not be anxious about anything -[1586.94 --> 1591.20] but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving -[1591.20 --> 1592.94] present your requests to God -[1592.94 --> 1596.54] and the peace of God, which transcends all understanding -[1596.54 --> 1599.16] will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus -[1599.16 --> 1601.92] Next week's offering is for Team Challenge -[1601.92 --> 1603.02] Please give generously -[1603.02 --> 1621.36] Thank you for joining us -[1621.36 --> 1622.68] Thank you for joining us -[1622.68 --> 1643.50] Holy Spirit, living breath of God -[1643.50 --> 1649.40] Breathe new life into my willing soul -[1649.40 --> 1657.26] Bring the presence of the risen Lord -[1657.26 --> 1663.80] To renew my heart and make me whole -[1663.80 --> 1671.72] Cause your word to come alive in me -[1671.72 --> 1678.56] Give me faith for what I cannot see -[1678.56 --> 1684.70] Give me passion for your purity -[1684.70 --> 1691.66] Holy Spirit, breathe new life in me -[1691.66 --> 1699.16] Holy Spirit, come abide with me -[1699.16 --> 1704.56] May your joy be seen in all I do -[1704.56 --> 1712.82] Love enough to cover every sin -[1712.82 --> 1717.66] In each thought and deed and attitude -[1717.66 --> 1727.04] Guide us to the greatest and the least -[1727.04 --> 1733.76] Gentleness that solves the path of peace -[1733.76 --> 1739.98] Turn my strivings into words of grace -[1739.98 --> 1745.24] Breath of God show Christ in all I do -[1745.24 --> 1753.78] Holy Spirit, from creation's birth -[1753.78 --> 1760.18] Giving life to all that God has made -[1760.18 --> 1767.32] Show your power once again on earth -[1767.32 --> 1774.50] Cause your dreams to hunger for your ways -[1774.50 --> 1781.72] Let the fragrance of the bears arise -[1781.72 --> 1787.18] Lead us on the road of sacrifice -[1787.18 --> 1794.56] That in unity the face of Christ -[1794.56 --> 1800.18] May be here for all the world to see -[1800.18 --> 1809.44] Let the fragrance of our prayers arise -[1809.44 --> 1816.70] Lead us on the road of sacrifice -[1816.70 --> 1822.94] That in unity the face of Christ -[1822.94 --> 1828.70] May be here for all the world to see -[1828.70 --> 1846.14] Got some keeners here this morning -[1846.14 --> 1847.92] Hey, how about that weather this morning, everybody? -[1848.00 --> 1848.82] Isn't that fantastic? -[1850.96 --> 1855.54] All right, the next thing I'd like to say is that comment sponsored by Ground Effects Nursery. -[1855.64 --> 1858.54] Please go to your local garden centers this week and buy some plants. -[1858.70 --> 1865.76] Anyway, we're happy the sun's out. It's great. It was beautiful this morning. It was out earlier. That's great -[1865.76 --> 1869.36] Before we get to Kids Corner, I've got to do a little council announcement. -[1869.50 --> 1875.38] We had a meeting this week, so I'd just like to give you a little bit of a summary about what we discussed at the meeting. -[1875.52 --> 1878.10] First off, we had a report from the elders. -[1878.86 --> 1881.94] They did a little bit of research with all the young adults in the church, -[1881.94 --> 1887.02] and they gave us a report on the success of that ministry, the work that Josh has been doing. -[1888.10 --> 1890.72] And it was very exciting to hear. -[1890.84 --> 1896.32] So we heard about that, and we have more information for you at the next council meeting to share with you about that. -[1896.32 --> 1899.88] We also had a little bit of time to talk about the nominations. -[1900.06 --> 1909.66] We're still short a couple nominations for elder here, so we had a decent conversation about that as to how that's going to transpire over the next little bit here -[1909.66 --> 1913.28] as we work our way through the election process. -[1914.42 --> 1919.50] We also had some time to hear the pastoral reports from both Chris and Kevin. -[1919.50 --> 1922.40] So that was great to hear about what's going on in our community. -[1924.12 --> 1927.50] Chris shared with us that he's doing a volunteer training day on June 18th. -[1928.66 --> 1932.40] We're going to have time for, there's some training going to happen there, -[1932.50 --> 1936.32] and more of just recognition for our volunteers at our church. -[1937.60 --> 1940.78] And we're going to have a congregational meeting coming up in June, -[1940.90 --> 1943.62] and we're still working the details out on that, -[1943.62 --> 1947.36] so more information will come to you through email. -[1947.36 --> 1949.92] Thank you very much. -[1951.08 --> 1952.76] Kids Corner, do it. -[1959.22 --> 1960.44] All right, how's everybody... -[1960.44 --> 1962.30] Who is? -[1963.14 --> 1964.90] All right, how's everybody doing this morning? -[1965.86 --> 1968.16] I want you to finish my sentence. -[1968.76 --> 1972.38] When I get up in the morning and the sun is beautiful outside, -[1972.38 --> 1975.38] the first thing I want to do when I get outside is... -[1975.38 --> 1977.40] Eat. -[1977.78 --> 1978.84] Go for a walk. -[1979.12 --> 1979.64] What else? -[1979.74 --> 1980.58] Anybody else got some... -[1980.58 --> 1981.06] Go to the beach. -[1981.12 --> 1981.98] Go to the beach. -[1982.06 --> 1982.62] Like that one. -[1982.94 --> 1983.50] Go swimming? -[1984.70 --> 1985.18] Like... -[1985.18 --> 1985.54] Go to the pool. -[1986.54 --> 1988.84] Is the water still kind of cold, but you're doing it anyway? -[1990.16 --> 1990.96] Go to the pool. -[1991.04 --> 1991.72] Anybody else? -[1992.60 --> 1993.82] Those are great suggestions. -[1993.82 --> 2004.34] Today, we're going to do a story and story hour in the back about a young girl who is about your guys' age. -[2004.38 --> 2005.42] I'm not really exactly sure. -[2005.52 --> 2013.10] She might have been about 10, I think, but about how she helped a general learn about God. -[2013.10 --> 2017.18] But before we do that, I want to talk to you guys about something quick. -[2018.92 --> 2020.66] I can see all you guys right here. -[2020.74 --> 2025.44] You guys are all young and Sunday school age. -[2025.54 --> 2030.86] Have you guys ever seen any pictures of your mom or dad when they were your age? -[2032.14 --> 2033.00] You haven't? -[2033.06 --> 2034.54] What do you think when you see those pictures? -[2034.54 --> 2039.36] Are they kind of weird? -[2040.18 --> 2040.80] They're kind of weird. -[2041.46 --> 2044.66] So, how many of you guys want to see pictures of me when I was your age? -[2046.56 --> 2047.42] Are you going to laugh? -[2049.30 --> 2049.62] Probably. -[2051.80 --> 2052.12] Okay. -[2052.18 --> 2054.82] Well, before I do that, I got one more question to ask you guys. -[2054.90 --> 2056.86] I got, like, a big birthday coming up tomorrow. -[2056.96 --> 2059.06] I want to ask you guys, how old do you think I am? -[2059.80 --> 2060.70] Who's got a suggestion? -[2061.14 --> 2061.86] Fifteen hundred. -[2062.34 --> 2063.06] Fifteen hundred. -[2064.02 --> 2064.50] Sixty-five. -[2064.54 --> 2064.78] Fifty. -[2067.66 --> 2068.06] Fifty. -[2068.78 --> 2069.18] Fifty. -[2070.50 --> 2071.02] Forty-six. -[2071.18 --> 2072.62] Good questions. -[2072.82 --> 2073.22] All right. -[2075.18 --> 2078.24] Forty years ago, this is what this guy looked like up there. -[2078.30 --> 2078.78] Look at that. -[2078.88 --> 2079.74] Look at that picture. -[2079.88 --> 2080.58] Isn't that good? -[2082.32 --> 2082.94] That's me. -[2083.14 --> 2083.44] All right. -[2083.48 --> 2084.16] We got four of them. -[2084.20 --> 2085.22] You can roll the next one. -[2086.04 --> 2087.40] Look at that cute kid. -[2087.64 --> 2088.62] That's so creepy. -[2091.26 --> 2091.92] One more. -[2092.60 --> 2094.42] There's me in the middle with my siblings. -[2094.42 --> 2097.56] And one more. -[2097.70 --> 2098.26] Last one. -[2099.14 --> 2099.74] All right. -[2099.80 --> 2101.40] There's me at one of my birthday parties. -[2101.84 --> 2103.02] Tomorrow I'm turning 50. -[2103.26 --> 2104.02] Can't believe it. -[2104.38 --> 2104.74] Crazy. -[2107.94 --> 2108.58] All right. -[2108.84 --> 2111.02] We're going to pray in the back with you guys, -[2111.10 --> 2113.00] but we're going to do the blessing for sure this morning, -[2113.08 --> 2114.18] so let's all stand up. -[2121.18 --> 2121.54] Ready? -[2121.54 --> 2121.60] Ready? -[2121.98 --> 2122.54] The... -[2122.54 --> 2122.88] Thank you. -[2122.92 --> 2125.10] Thank you. -[2125.10 --> 2125.20] Thank you. -[2127.56 --> 2129.16] Thank you. -[2129.30 --> 2138.24] Thank you. -[2138.24 --> 2142.34] Thank you. -[2142.34 --> 2162.60] It's my privilege this morning to lead you in our church family prayer. -[2163.52 --> 2167.48] A couple notes before we pray. -[2167.48 --> 2171.94] We're going to pray this morning for Louise Rezabos. -[2172.20 --> 2173.54] Many of you know her. -[2174.36 --> 2181.04] She had an aneurysm, a brain aneurysm last night and is in the hospital and in coma. -[2181.52 --> 2189.94] We don't know any further details as of yet, but we definitely want to uphold her in prayer -[2189.94 --> 2193.66] and pray for a miracle of God's healing in her life. -[2193.92 --> 2196.78] And so when I pray for that, we will do that. -[2196.78 --> 2201.94] I encourage you to keep that in your personal prayers as well this coming week. -[2204.24 --> 2211.62] Additionally, I know that maybe we are tired of hearing it in our prayer, but we're going -[2211.62 --> 2216.00] to continue to pray for COVID and the impacts on our community. -[2216.60 --> 2220.52] There's a number of people in our church family right now who have COVID and are home with -[2220.52 --> 2222.24] COVID and struggling with that. -[2222.24 --> 2229.86] We are grateful that most of those cases are minor, and yet it's easy to forget or ignore -[2229.86 --> 2233.36] and not think intentionally or prayerfully about. -[2233.56 --> 2236.20] And so we're going to continue to do that together. -[2236.20 --> 2241.32] I invite you to join your hearts with mine as we pray. -[2241.66 --> 2242.36] Let's pray together. -[2242.36 --> 2253.88] Holy and heavenly Father. -[2253.88 --> 2261.34] We come before you on the morning of this day grateful for the beautiful weather, grateful -[2261.34 --> 2269.96] for a long weekend, an extra long weekend for some of us kids in school, and we are mindful -[2269.96 --> 2273.62] of the many things that we can do as a result of that. -[2273.62 --> 2279.84] We are grateful for those and with those who have opportunity to get away, maybe go camping -[2279.84 --> 2284.90] or visit with family and friends in other places this long weekend. -[2285.60 --> 2288.76] We pray, God, that you would keep them safe as they travel. -[2289.68 --> 2296.26] You would bless that time spent relaxing and spent reconnecting with people. -[2297.24 --> 2300.96] May it be a deep and real blessing. -[2300.96 --> 2308.52] We thank you for the opportunity that many of us had who stayed here to enjoy this long weekend, -[2308.64 --> 2315.24] whether that was visiting places or getting some work done around the property or just relaxing -[2315.24 --> 2318.58] in community and in fellowship with others. -[2318.70 --> 2327.74] We pray, Lord God, that you would restore our hearts and souls through these sorts of times -[2327.74 --> 2328.70] and activities. -[2328.70 --> 2335.74] We come, God, to worship because we need your restoring power. -[2335.94 --> 2341.60] We need to be reminded of who you are and of what you have done in the world. -[2341.80 --> 2349.88] And so, Lord God, open the eyes of our hearts to receive you, to welcome more of your spirit -[2349.88 --> 2356.70] into ourselves that we might be transformed and that our lives might be changed. -[2356.70 --> 2363.42] Unstop our stuck ears so that we might hear the truth of your gospel -[2363.42 --> 2370.84] and so that we might have the hope that is required to live life in you. -[2370.84 --> 2383.14] God, life lived in you is full of reasons for thanksgiving, not necessarily because things are going so well all the time, -[2383.14 --> 2387.20] but precisely because you are with us all the time. -[2388.20 --> 2390.12] And so we give you thanks for your presence. -[2390.12 --> 2398.66] We give you thanks for your nearness in our lives and we pray that you would help us to experience more and more of you each day. -[2399.18 --> 2407.72] That you would help us in worship to recalibrate that experience, to re-familiarize ourselves with your voice as the good shepherd -[2407.72 --> 2413.30] and that we might go from this place constantly in praise of you. -[2415.82 --> 2421.56] Father God, we know that in your word you call us to pray. -[2422.20 --> 2424.20] You call us to lives of prayer. -[2424.66 --> 2432.20] You call us to pray for the sick among us, to pray for the hurting and those in need. -[2432.20 --> 2439.86] And so, Lord God, with heavy and full hearts, we come to you and we lift up those in need. -[2440.50 --> 2448.96] In particular, we cry out with the Rezabos and the Wind and other extended families and we pray for Louise. -[2450.08 --> 2453.04] We pray, Lord God, that you would bring healing to her. -[2454.06 --> 2457.34] Restore her with a miracle of your touch. -[2457.34 --> 2460.64] Give her, Lord God, all that she needs. -[2460.78 --> 2469.82] And as the family comes together and as the family prays, we join our voices with theirs and we ask that you would sustain them today. -[2470.88 --> 2475.70] We don't know what the future holds, Lord God, but we know that you hold the future. -[2476.70 --> 2480.26] And so, may we rest in your care. -[2480.94 --> 2484.08] May we rest in your hands together. -[2484.08 --> 2497.88] Father God, we continue in prayer for those who are recovering from treatments, for those who have had a procedure and are now resting. -[2498.04 --> 2498.82] We think of Marga. -[2499.24 --> 2511.38] Ask, Lord God, that you would continue to give her what she needs and bring healing to her as she recovers and spends the next three to six months in recovery. -[2511.38 --> 2516.28] We pray that you would speed that along and give her all that she needs. -[2517.20 --> 2527.38] And God, we pray that you would give her patience and an extra measure of patience so that she might not rush this process and then so prolong it, -[2527.50 --> 2533.14] but might do what she has been instructed to from her doctors and those providing care for her. -[2533.40 --> 2538.32] And we pray, Lord God, that you would bring healing to her. -[2538.32 --> 2548.64] Father God, we know that there are others in our community who have many other illnesses and many other long-term health struggles. -[2548.78 --> 2556.66] We pray that you would be near to them, that you would provide for them in meaningful and purposeful ways, -[2556.66 --> 2563.54] and that you would use us as your church, that we as a church family, as brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus, -[2563.54 --> 2571.04] would meet the needs of those whom we know, and that prayerfully, Lord God, we would meet the needs of those whom we don't know. -[2571.96 --> 2575.70] And so work in the world in response to the prayer of your saints. -[2576.56 --> 2582.44] To that end, God, we continue in prayer for those who are affected by COVID-19, -[2582.44 --> 2585.60] especially for those who are currently sick with it. -[2585.66 --> 2594.02] We know that there are a few, and yet we are grateful that the disease itself, the virus itself, -[2594.12 --> 2600.54] has seemed to have become less impactful, and we thank you for mild cases. -[2601.00 --> 2606.58] And yet, Lord God, we are aware that this is an ongoing and continuing reality, -[2606.58 --> 2610.12] and so give us what we need to endure. -[2610.54 --> 2615.14] Give us what we need to respond, both responsibly and compassionately, -[2615.60 --> 2620.14] and with a sense of Holy Spirit wisdom in the midst of all of this. -[2621.74 --> 2625.60] God, we are grateful for the ways that you answer prayer. -[2626.42 --> 2631.22] Whether that is time or in medicine or in miracle, -[2631.22 --> 2639.08] we pray, Lord God, that you would bring all of our health needs to resolution, -[2639.74 --> 2647.00] and that you would restore each who struggles, hurts, and who lives in pain, -[2647.12 --> 2649.08] whether physical or emotional. -[2650.60 --> 2656.92] Lord our God, as we remember this time of need and prayer, -[2656.92 --> 2661.66] we know that your word also calls us to mourn with those who mourn. -[2662.68 --> 2668.72] And so, Lord God, alongside of the DeYoung family and the extended family, -[2668.88 --> 2672.28] we mourn the loss of Arnold and Joanne, -[2672.78 --> 2675.06] members at Gateway Christian Reformed Church, -[2675.20 --> 2678.86] and connected to so many in our Christian Reformed, -[2678.96 --> 2680.84] but also the Abbotsford community. -[2680.84 --> 2685.62] And we pray, Lord God, that you would meet us in our mourning, -[2686.60 --> 2688.06] that you would weep with us, -[2688.78 --> 2693.02] and that even as our mourning lasts for the night, -[2693.32 --> 2695.78] we know that your mercies are new. -[2696.58 --> 2700.08] And so we pray, Lord God, that you would lift us up, -[2700.12 --> 2702.70] even as we walk through the valley of the shadow, -[2703.10 --> 2705.66] may we come into your light. -[2705.80 --> 2709.10] May we know your hope in this life. -[2710.84 --> 2714.24] Continue in the same vein of prayer for the Alexander family. -[2715.42 --> 2719.40] As they continue to mourn the loss of a dad and a grandpa, -[2719.58 --> 2721.28] we pray that you, Lord God, -[2721.36 --> 2725.98] would bring a measure of peace in this season, -[2726.74 --> 2731.48] and that for questions asked and wonderings had, -[2731.86 --> 2735.48] we pray, Lord God, that even if we can't find answer, -[2735.48 --> 2738.14] even if we can't know the why, -[2738.48 --> 2741.08] we can know you in the midst of it. -[2742.44 --> 2745.80] Lord, we believe and so help our unbelief. -[2747.26 --> 2751.42] We doubt and so grant us more faith. -[2752.64 --> 2755.44] We struggle in these moments and days, -[2755.58 --> 2757.44] and so give us hope. -[2757.44 --> 2761.60] A hope that can only come from the victory of the cross, -[2761.70 --> 2764.46] a hope that can only come from the power of the empty tomb, -[2764.82 --> 2767.18] a hope that can only come from a Savior, -[2767.40 --> 2769.58] crucified, risen, and ascended, -[2770.06 --> 2772.60] who sits at the right hand of God the Father, -[2772.74 --> 2774.92] who comes again, -[2775.50 --> 2776.34] judge the living. -[2777.66 --> 2780.20] So our hope is in your return. -[2780.58 --> 2782.50] Our hope is in you. -[2782.50 --> 2787.62] God, we pray that you would meet the needs of our church, -[2787.68 --> 2791.64] especially as we are looking for men to serve as pastoral elders. -[2792.78 --> 2799.14] May you move in the hearts and minds of those people whom you are calling, -[2800.18 --> 2804.98] that they would be used by you to lead us into hope, -[2805.76 --> 2809.96] to lead us into whatever future you have emerging for us -[2809.96 --> 2811.78] as Langley Emanuel Church. -[2812.50 --> 2814.40] We are grateful, Lord God, -[2814.46 --> 2817.76] for the call that you place on individuals to serve, -[2817.86 --> 2820.70] and we ask now that those whom you are calling, -[2820.84 --> 2824.44] those men who you are calling to serve as pastoral elders in this season -[2824.44 --> 2829.82] would hear your voice and would trust in your equipping to serve. -[2831.72 --> 2835.50] It is a privilege to work with you, Lord God. -[2836.16 --> 2837.74] We give you thanks for that. -[2837.74 --> 2844.68] Thank you that you incorporate us into your plan and will for the world, -[2844.80 --> 2849.14] and that you use us as ambassadors of reconciliation, -[2850.22 --> 2852.58] ministers of mercy and grace. -[2852.58 --> 2857.44] God, we know that we do this work for your glory and with your spirit, -[2857.44 --> 2862.96] and so as we come now to your word, fill us up, an experience of both. -[2863.80 --> 2867.50] Fill us up by your spirit that we might hear your voice, Lord Jesus, -[2867.66 --> 2872.72] and that we might give you praise for who you are and for what you have done. -[2873.42 --> 2876.72] Bless Pastor Kevin as he brings your word to us this morning. -[2876.72 --> 2880.00] May he speak with boldness and clarity, -[2880.36 --> 2885.60] and may he speak your truth directly to our hearts and minds. -[2886.80 --> 2888.48] In Christ Jesus we pray. -[2889.28 --> 2889.54] Amen. -[2889.54 --> 2889.60] Amen. -[2889.60 --> 2889.66] Amen. -[2889.66 --> 2889.68] Amen. -[2889.68 --> 2889.74] Amen. -[2889.74 --> 2889.76] Amen. -[2889.76 --> 2889.82] Amen. -[2889.82 --> 2889.84] Amen. -[2889.84 --> 2889.90] Amen. -[2889.90 --> 2889.94] Amen. -[2889.94 --> 2889.98] Amen. -[2889.98 --> 2890.02] Amen. -[2890.02 --> 2893.90] Amen. -[2906.72 --> 2907.72] Amen. -[2907.72 --> 2908.72] Amen. -[2910.72 --> 2914.06] Sometimes we forget to think about this when we come into church. -[2914.50 --> 2916.50] We have many people here today. -[2916.68 --> 2917.98] Many people are not here today. -[2917.98 --> 2921.24] We come into this building, some of us feeling immense joy, -[2921.36 --> 2922.74] some of us feeling immense sadness. -[2922.94 --> 2924.36] There's many emotions in the room. -[2924.50 --> 2927.98] We spend time in prayer, acknowledging certain things, rejoicing in some, -[2928.80 --> 2932.44] grieving in others, and then we come together to the word of God -[2932.44 --> 2938.70] because we know the word of God is true no matter how we are feeling that day. -[2938.80 --> 2942.74] And so this has been true these past couple of weeks as well. -[2942.82 --> 2944.80] If you've been with us the last couple of weeks, -[2945.18 --> 2947.80] you'll know we've been going through a short little sermon series -[2947.80 --> 2949.34] that we're actually concluding today. -[2949.86 --> 2952.44] If you haven't been with us these past couple of weeks, -[2952.68 --> 2954.12] you probably didn't know that. -[2954.78 --> 2955.48] But now you do. -[2956.08 --> 2958.58] And I thought before we get into our text today, -[2958.94 --> 2961.66] it would be fun to do a little bit of a review quiz, -[2961.66 --> 2964.32] kind of just to see how we all are doing, -[2964.48 --> 2967.16] to see what we've learned from our sermon series so far. -[2967.28 --> 2969.32] So there's four sections in this building, -[2969.46 --> 2970.70] one, two, three, four. -[2970.88 --> 2972.58] I'm going to ask four questions, -[2972.92 --> 2973.94] one to each section. -[2974.10 --> 2975.70] Each question is a multiple choice, -[2975.84 --> 2977.00] and we're going to see how we do. -[2977.06 --> 2978.12] And if you're watching online, -[2978.50 --> 2980.18] see if you can go four for four here. -[2980.48 --> 2982.98] And if you haven't been here with us for the past two weeks -[2982.98 --> 2984.84] and have no idea what I'm talking about, -[2985.10 --> 2987.46] you'll probably do just fine on this quiz, I think. -[2987.58 --> 2988.64] So here we go. -[2989.28 --> 2990.90] Question number one to this section right here. -[2990.92 --> 2991.30] Are you ready? -[2992.66 --> 2994.14] What book have we been working through -[2994.14 --> 2995.16] these past couple weeks? -[2995.36 --> 2997.82] Has it been 2 Thessalonians, Pride and Prejudice, -[2998.20 --> 2999.66] Jude, or all of the above? -[3001.00 --> 3002.16] Jude, we're one for one. -[3002.54 --> 3003.26] All right, good job. -[3003.36 --> 3004.14] That was a lob ball. -[3004.24 --> 3004.74] Get us going. -[3005.22 --> 3006.66] Question number two to this section. -[3006.78 --> 3007.28] Here we go. -[3007.54 --> 3009.08] It's a little trickier, but probably not really. -[3009.52 --> 3012.04] What is the name of the author of this book -[3012.04 --> 3012.98] that we've been looking at? -[3013.02 --> 3016.86] Is it Jude, Judas, Judah, or all of the above? -[3018.34 --> 3019.42] It is all of the above. -[3019.42 --> 3020.82] If you guys did so good, a little bit of trick, -[3020.88 --> 3021.82] I would have accepted A. -[3022.14 --> 3023.32] I would have given it to you anyways. -[3023.44 --> 3024.84] Question number three over here. -[3025.68 --> 3026.74] There are a lot of questions about Jude, -[3026.84 --> 3027.60] which has guessed the point. -[3028.00 --> 3029.12] Who is Jude? -[3029.26 --> 3030.00] Third section. -[3030.58 --> 3031.18] Some guy. -[3031.90 --> 3033.26] Brother of James. -[3033.68 --> 3034.84] Half-brother of Jesus. -[3034.84 --> 3036.20] Or all of the above? -[3041.40 --> 3042.64] A, B, C, D? -[3044.48 --> 3045.58] C, it's all of the above. -[3045.68 --> 3047.42] It's all of the answers you've shouted out is true. -[3047.80 --> 3049.16] So you guys got it right as well. -[3049.88 --> 3052.76] And number four, easily the hardest question. -[3053.72 --> 3056.54] What big word did Pastor Chris teach us about last week? -[3057.48 --> 3057.84] Transubstantiation? -[3058.38 --> 3058.74] Immutability? -[3059.22 --> 3060.96] Anti-disestablishmentarianism? -[3060.96 --> 3062.14] Or all of the above? -[3063.68 --> 3064.62] Yeah, that's what it is. -[3064.82 --> 3065.18] Immutability. -[3065.30 --> 3065.88] Good job, Josh. -[3065.90 --> 3066.38] You were listening. -[3068.00 --> 3068.54] All right. -[3068.72 --> 3069.96] So that's the review quiz. -[3070.16 --> 3071.32] You guys have all done great. -[3071.64 --> 3073.68] I'm sure you're all feeling very gruntled right now. -[3074.10 --> 3076.22] Gruntled, of course, being the opposite of disgruntled, -[3076.40 --> 3078.28] which is a word we never use for some reason, -[3078.34 --> 3079.06] but I think we should. -[3079.54 --> 3080.42] You guys did great. -[3081.38 --> 3082.46] Anyways, we've looked at Jude. -[3082.56 --> 3084.72] We've looked at the first 23 verses -[3084.72 --> 3085.90] over the past two weeks, -[3085.90 --> 3087.08] and Chris was kind enough -[3087.08 --> 3089.18] to leave me two measly verses at the end -[3089.18 --> 3091.60] to conclude this sermon series with. -[3092.02 --> 3092.92] That being said, -[3093.30 --> 3096.08] these two verses actually pack quite a punch. -[3096.22 --> 3098.98] And so whether you've heard the first two sermons or not, -[3099.30 --> 3102.44] I'm excited to be able to look at these two verses today as well. -[3102.48 --> 3103.86] So if you have your Bibles with you, -[3103.94 --> 3104.98] good time to open them up. -[3105.28 --> 3106.50] Maybe you've got your Bibles app -[3106.50 --> 3107.56] or you've got your Bible memorized. -[3108.14 --> 3109.90] Turn with me to your Bibles, -[3110.78 --> 3111.34] your apps, -[3111.34 --> 3112.00] your brain, -[3112.36 --> 3117.10] and read with me verses 24 and 25 this morning. -[3117.58 --> 3118.70] It's a short little passage, -[3118.86 --> 3119.66] but it's a powerful one. -[3119.72 --> 3122.20] Here we read in Jude 24 and 25, -[3122.94 --> 3125.32] to him who is to keep you from stumbling -[3125.32 --> 3128.10] and to present you before his glorious presence -[3128.10 --> 3130.54] without fault and with great joy, -[3131.00 --> 3132.64] to the only God our Savior -[3132.64 --> 3136.04] be glory, majesty, power, and authority -[3136.04 --> 3138.00] through Jesus Christ our Lord -[3138.00 --> 3139.58] before all ages, -[3140.26 --> 3142.10] now and forevermore. -[3142.78 --> 3143.12] Amen. -[3143.94 --> 3145.48] The word of the Lord. -[3146.82 --> 3150.18] Now this text exalts Jesus. -[3151.04 --> 3153.48] That is the purpose of Jude's final words -[3153.48 --> 3154.44] here in his letter. -[3154.50 --> 3156.84] Actually, it's the point of Jude's entire letter. -[3157.18 --> 3158.36] And what we will come to see today -[3158.36 --> 3159.88] is actually the point of this life -[3159.88 --> 3162.74] that we are to be living here and now, -[3162.80 --> 3165.92] to exalt Jesus above all. -[3166.48 --> 3168.42] Jesus is worthy of all glory, -[3168.98 --> 3171.60] majesty, power, and authority. -[3171.84 --> 3173.06] We've been looking at this theme -[3173.06 --> 3174.36] for the past two weeks, -[3174.46 --> 3176.18] so we're going to quickly recap that -[3176.18 --> 3177.20] as a sort of springboard -[3177.20 --> 3179.70] into this doxology that we read today. -[3179.78 --> 3181.82] First, we discussed some errant ways, -[3181.94 --> 3184.44] some ways that some supposed believers -[3184.44 --> 3185.22] throughout history -[3185.22 --> 3187.90] and even in our churches today in the West -[3187.90 --> 3190.98] have responded poorly to Christ our King. -[3191.32 --> 3193.18] Some worldly doctrines have slipped -[3193.18 --> 3194.68] into the church throughout history, -[3194.80 --> 3195.76] including our present time. -[3195.76 --> 3197.28] Things like cheap grace, -[3197.90 --> 3198.94] like social good, -[3199.98 --> 3201.26] like antinomialism, -[3201.48 --> 3203.02] which is a word I should have used in the quiz. -[3203.96 --> 3206.84] See, some see grace as cheap. -[3207.54 --> 3209.64] They believe Jesus died for everything, -[3209.86 --> 3212.00] and so now you can do whatever you want -[3212.00 --> 3213.76] because God's grace covers it. -[3215.12 --> 3216.44] God's grace covers all sin, -[3216.50 --> 3217.58] so just live however you like. -[3217.64 --> 3218.68] But if people believe this, -[3218.72 --> 3221.16] they have this inflated sense of self-worth, -[3221.32 --> 3224.14] and they're uninterested in following Christ's command -[3224.14 --> 3226.62] to take up your cross and follow him. -[3228.06 --> 3228.60] Social good. -[3228.68 --> 3230.34] People are bent to a social good. -[3230.64 --> 3232.44] They believe that all you need to do to be saved -[3232.44 --> 3233.56] is to be a good person, -[3233.56 --> 3235.14] but the folly of that, of course, -[3235.22 --> 3237.36] is there's no need for Jesus then, -[3237.70 --> 3238.48] if that's the case. -[3238.56 --> 3240.48] Your salvation is then actually up to you -[3240.48 --> 3241.74] and the good that you do. -[3242.74 --> 3244.42] I said this word wrong just a second ago, -[3244.48 --> 3247.36] but antinominalism is the rejection of all laws. -[3247.44 --> 3248.26] Did I get it right that time? -[3248.42 --> 3249.12] Still wrong, hey? -[3249.98 --> 3250.62] Did I really? -[3250.96 --> 3252.50] Oh, I really thought I butchered it the first time. -[3253.58 --> 3255.86] Well, that word, it's the rejection of all laws. -[3256.58 --> 3259.58] It's this extreme of both points we just talked about. -[3259.64 --> 3262.60] These people who believe they owe nobody anything. -[3263.12 --> 3264.52] They don't owe anybody nothing. -[3264.64 --> 3266.52] They're guilty of extreme individualism, -[3266.56 --> 3267.68] and to our triune God, -[3267.80 --> 3270.28] our triune God who's existed in Father, Son, and Spirit -[3270.28 --> 3271.86] throughout time immemorial, -[3272.18 --> 3273.52] this is, of course, very insulting, -[3274.06 --> 3275.36] and it's not how we are called to live. -[3275.36 --> 3277.78] But to counter those false claims, -[3277.98 --> 3279.44] we've learned some real truths too. -[3280.00 --> 3282.18] We've uncovered that there's no ultimate good -[3282.18 --> 3283.14] apart from Jesus. -[3283.72 --> 3286.34] We must abide in him to do anything eternally good. -[3286.86 --> 3290.62] We've also learned that we are called, kept, and cherished. -[3290.72 --> 3291.88] We're called to live for him. -[3292.24 --> 3293.56] We're kept by him, -[3293.62 --> 3296.02] something that we're going to talk about again today. -[3296.58 --> 3298.62] And we're cherished by him. -[3299.12 --> 3301.80] Because God is immutable, remember that, -[3302.22 --> 3303.76] it means he cannot change. -[3303.76 --> 3303.80] Change. -[3304.38 --> 3306.34] That means when he says he loves you, -[3306.94 --> 3307.50] he loves you. -[3307.58 --> 3308.82] That cannot change. -[3309.50 --> 3310.78] He cherishes you always, -[3310.88 --> 3311.72] no matter your past, -[3311.98 --> 3312.68] no matter your present, -[3312.78 --> 3313.58] no matter your future, -[3313.96 --> 3314.92] no matter what you've done -[3314.92 --> 3316.10] or what has been done to you, -[3316.16 --> 3318.20] you are cherished by God. -[3319.22 --> 3320.62] Because God cannot change. -[3321.88 --> 3322.54] And then finally, -[3323.12 --> 3324.82] we learn that we must remember his word -[3324.82 --> 3326.04] because God remembered us. -[3326.84 --> 3328.60] That we will remain in his love -[3328.60 --> 3330.50] because he first loved us. -[3330.50 --> 3332.38] And that we're called to rescue others -[3332.38 --> 3333.90] because he rescued us. -[3335.16 --> 3335.96] And then, -[3336.46 --> 3337.86] Jude gets to our text today. -[3338.64 --> 3340.24] After throwing all of that at us, -[3340.72 --> 3342.08] Jude concludes with our text. -[3342.14 --> 3343.26] And I'm actually just going to read it for you -[3343.26 --> 3343.76] one more time -[3343.76 --> 3344.72] because it's so nice and short. -[3345.10 --> 3345.32] It says, -[3345.32 --> 3347.44] to him who is able to keep you from stumbling -[3347.44 --> 3348.76] and to present you -[3348.76 --> 3351.60] before his glorious presence -[3351.60 --> 3352.98] without fault and with great joy, -[3353.28 --> 3354.58] to the only God our Savior, -[3354.74 --> 3357.04] be glory, majesty, power, and authority -[3357.04 --> 3359.08] through Jesus Christ our Lord -[3359.08 --> 3362.16] before all ages now and forevermore. -[3362.62 --> 3362.92] Amen. -[3363.98 --> 3366.98] Now there's something about the exaltation of Jesus -[3366.98 --> 3367.94] in this passage -[3367.94 --> 3370.18] that really needs to resonate with us here. -[3370.38 --> 3371.48] Do you see how it's worded? -[3372.14 --> 3374.02] Do you look at that last little chunk of this passage? -[3374.02 --> 3375.22] It's one long sentence, -[3375.36 --> 3376.00] these two verses, -[3376.42 --> 3377.18] but it ends with, -[3377.60 --> 3379.18] through Jesus Christ our Lord -[3379.18 --> 3381.46] before all ages now and forevermore. -[3383.18 --> 3383.94] Now we could, -[3384.24 --> 3386.24] we could look at that, -[3386.30 --> 3386.86] we can understand, -[3386.96 --> 3387.78] that's forever, right? -[3387.82 --> 3388.48] That's always. -[3389.68 --> 3389.90] Right? -[3390.26 --> 3392.64] Before all ages now and forevermore. -[3393.80 --> 3394.92] So it ends by saying, -[3395.04 --> 3395.74] through Jesus, -[3396.62 --> 3396.96] always. -[3398.36 --> 3400.64] Now we could take this text and reorder it, -[3400.68 --> 3401.36] not change it, -[3401.54 --> 3403.28] but we could reorder it in this way. -[3403.28 --> 3403.70] We could say, -[3403.86 --> 3404.36] to Jesus, -[3405.62 --> 3407.82] who is always able to keep you from stumbling, -[3408.56 --> 3409.18] and who is all, -[3409.28 --> 3410.86] and who always presents to you -[3410.86 --> 3412.52] before God's glorious presence -[3412.52 --> 3413.94] without fault and with great joy, -[3414.60 --> 3416.12] to Jesus be all glory, -[3416.78 --> 3417.62] majesty, power, -[3418.14 --> 3418.80] and authority. -[3419.68 --> 3420.00] Amen. -[3421.94 --> 3422.36] So you see, -[3422.48 --> 3424.54] while this text actually ends with Jesus, -[3424.70 --> 3427.00] it really starts with Jesus. -[3427.90 --> 3429.98] And isn't that just sort of the beautiful picture -[3429.98 --> 3431.16] of faith that we have? -[3431.60 --> 3433.16] We can't end with Jesus -[3433.16 --> 3434.52] unless we start with Jesus, -[3434.60 --> 3435.14] or rather, -[3437.14 --> 3437.98] we can't -[3437.98 --> 3441.68] end with Jesus -[3441.68 --> 3443.62] unless we start with Jesus. -[3443.70 --> 3446.34] We can't understand that -[3446.34 --> 3448.98] until we understand that Jesus started with us. -[3449.54 --> 3451.04] See, it's Jesus who is worthy. -[3452.16 --> 3452.96] It's Jesus -[3452.96 --> 3455.06] who remembered us in our struggles -[3455.06 --> 3456.08] and came to heal us -[3456.08 --> 3456.78] from our pain. -[3457.04 --> 3457.70] It is Jesus -[3457.70 --> 3459.12] who gave up everything -[3459.12 --> 3460.44] so that you could be forgiven. -[3460.76 --> 3461.42] It's Jesus -[3461.42 --> 3462.64] who removes your guilt -[3462.64 --> 3463.54] and your shame. -[3463.64 --> 3464.14] It's Jesus -[3464.14 --> 3465.06] who wept -[3465.06 --> 3466.20] when his friend -[3466.20 --> 3466.92] died, -[3467.00 --> 3467.68] and it's Jesus -[3467.68 --> 3468.34] who knows -[3468.34 --> 3469.48] how to comfort you -[3469.48 --> 3471.08] when you lose someone you love. -[3472.46 --> 3473.32] It's Jesus -[3473.32 --> 3475.42] who loves you -[3475.42 --> 3476.96] more than you will ever know. -[3479.40 --> 3480.78] Because of that love, -[3480.86 --> 3481.54] it is Jesus -[3481.54 --> 3482.56] who made himself -[3482.56 --> 3483.54] of no reputation. -[3484.08 --> 3485.50] He left the heavenly throne -[3485.50 --> 3487.26] and he came to this earth, -[3487.60 --> 3488.36] a baby boy, -[3488.44 --> 3489.54] where he was scorned -[3489.54 --> 3490.62] and he was mocked -[3490.62 --> 3491.66] and he was rebuked -[3491.66 --> 3492.72] and yet he never sinned -[3492.72 --> 3494.16] and he never retaliated. -[3494.58 --> 3496.22] And he lived this perfect life -[3496.22 --> 3497.28] that we've been called to live, -[3497.48 --> 3498.34] but then he died -[3498.34 --> 3499.40] a gruesome death, -[3500.34 --> 3502.08] as gruesome a death -[3502.08 --> 3503.62] that anyone could experience. -[3504.92 --> 3505.52] And that's a death -[3505.52 --> 3506.34] that you and I deserve. -[3507.90 --> 3508.50] He did that -[3508.50 --> 3509.56] so that we wouldn't have to. -[3509.90 --> 3511.24] And he bore the wrath of God -[3511.24 --> 3512.04] that was intended for us -[3512.04 --> 3513.34] and he took it with the grave, -[3514.22 --> 3515.36] took it to the grave with him. -[3516.10 --> 3517.10] But then victoriously, -[3517.82 --> 3518.96] he rises from the grave -[3518.96 --> 3519.74] three days later -[3519.74 --> 3520.74] and he defeats sin -[3520.74 --> 3521.82] and death forever -[3521.82 --> 3522.86] and provides us all -[3522.86 --> 3523.42] with mercy -[3523.42 --> 3524.26] and grace -[3524.26 --> 3525.14] and forgiveness. -[3525.56 --> 3526.84] And all of that he does, -[3527.42 --> 3528.44] which we do not deserve. -[3529.50 --> 3531.10] And that is the gospel truth. -[3531.80 --> 3532.98] That is the gospel truth -[3532.98 --> 3533.60] that we remember -[3533.60 --> 3534.50] each and every week -[3534.50 --> 3535.06] here in church -[3535.06 --> 3536.18] and we need to remember -[3536.18 --> 3537.24] each and every day -[3537.24 --> 3539.28] that starts with Jesus -[3539.28 --> 3540.76] so that we can end with Jesus. -[3542.04 --> 3543.46] Just like Jude's doxology. -[3546.10 --> 3547.42] And now the same Lord -[3547.42 --> 3548.10] and Savior, -[3548.26 --> 3549.28] he ascended to heaven, -[3549.82 --> 3551.02] which we will remember -[3551.02 --> 3551.50] and celebrate -[3551.50 --> 3552.24] later this week. -[3553.00 --> 3553.98] And now he's sitting -[3553.98 --> 3554.94] on the throne of God -[3554.94 --> 3555.92] and he's reigning -[3555.92 --> 3556.90] over all the cosmos, -[3557.10 --> 3558.00] still working in us -[3558.00 --> 3558.74] and for us. -[3558.86 --> 3560.38] And our text points out -[3560.38 --> 3561.84] two ways that he is doing this. -[3562.10 --> 3563.04] Two ways that he is still -[3563.04 --> 3564.46] intervening in our lives. -[3565.60 --> 3566.02] If you look there, -[3566.06 --> 3566.30] it says, -[3566.30 --> 3567.24] Jesus keeps us -[3567.24 --> 3567.88] from stumbling -[3567.88 --> 3571.02] and Jesus presents us -[3571.02 --> 3571.64] blameless -[3571.64 --> 3572.78] before the throne of God. -[3573.68 --> 3574.06] And we'll look at -[3574.06 --> 3574.66] both of those today -[3574.66 --> 3575.02] for a minute. -[3576.02 --> 3576.32] First, -[3576.48 --> 3577.38] Jesus keeps us -[3577.38 --> 3578.26] from stumbling. -[3579.84 --> 3580.62] And perhaps it's easy -[3580.62 --> 3581.16] to read this -[3581.16 --> 3581.68] with a little bit -[3581.68 --> 3582.64] of a limited scope -[3582.64 --> 3583.76] and we question -[3583.76 --> 3584.34] this statement. -[3585.28 --> 3585.86] You might be thinking, -[3585.96 --> 3586.46] does he actually -[3586.46 --> 3587.54] keep me from stumbling? -[3587.62 --> 3588.48] Because I mess up -[3588.48 --> 3589.02] all the time. -[3590.72 --> 3591.36] The thing is, -[3591.38 --> 3592.24] this isn't a statement -[3592.24 --> 3593.78] about your sin. -[3594.62 --> 3595.56] This is a statement -[3595.56 --> 3597.32] about your salvation. -[3599.02 --> 3600.34] This isn't about your sin, -[3600.42 --> 3601.30] it's about your salvation. -[3601.58 --> 3602.18] When you pair -[3602.18 --> 3602.98] this first statement -[3602.98 --> 3603.64] that he keeps us -[3603.64 --> 3604.26] from stumbling -[3604.26 --> 3605.82] with Jude's second statement -[3605.82 --> 3607.48] that Jesus presents us -[3607.48 --> 3607.96] blameless -[3607.96 --> 3609.22] to the throne above, -[3609.44 --> 3610.60] we realize Jude isn't -[3610.60 --> 3611.12] talking about -[3611.12 --> 3612.34] everyday stuff right here. -[3613.24 --> 3613.80] He isn't talking -[3613.80 --> 3614.94] about the moment-to-moment -[3614.94 --> 3615.82] mess that we might -[3615.82 --> 3616.78] create sometimes. -[3617.42 --> 3618.98] This is an eternal -[3618.98 --> 3620.38] spectrum remark. -[3620.96 --> 3621.82] Jesus keeps us -[3621.82 --> 3622.88] from stumbling -[3622.88 --> 3623.96] eternally. -[3624.06 --> 3624.68] Our salvation -[3624.68 --> 3625.86] is assured. -[3631.30 --> 3632.14] We can put it -[3632.14 --> 3632.78] a different way. -[3634.94 --> 3636.04] Our salvation -[3636.04 --> 3637.98] is certain -[3637.98 --> 3639.62] to those who believe. -[3640.50 --> 3641.62] This is a text -[3641.62 --> 3642.86] about the perseverance -[3642.86 --> 3643.82] of the saints. -[3644.26 --> 3645.22] Once you're saved, -[3645.56 --> 3646.24] you're saved. -[3646.54 --> 3647.16] Once the Spirit -[3647.16 --> 3648.10] opens your heart -[3648.10 --> 3648.90] to the promises -[3648.90 --> 3649.46] of God -[3649.46 --> 3650.32] and you've been given -[3650.32 --> 3651.24] the gift of faith, -[3651.24 --> 3653.34] faith, -[3653.34 --> 3655.62] you cannot not -[3655.62 --> 3656.40] believe it forever. -[3658.56 --> 3659.12] Again, -[3659.18 --> 3659.72] this goes back -[3659.72 --> 3661.66] to the immutability -[3661.66 --> 3662.32] of God. -[3662.70 --> 3664.20] God cannot change. -[3664.48 --> 3665.08] His promises -[3665.08 --> 3666.26] cannot change either. -[3666.80 --> 3667.92] Once you've experienced -[3667.92 --> 3668.56] or understood -[3668.56 --> 3670.04] or had the truth -[3670.04 --> 3670.88] of the love -[3670.88 --> 3671.44] and the grace -[3671.44 --> 3672.34] of Jesus Christ -[3672.34 --> 3673.16] revealed to you, -[3673.42 --> 3674.10] your salvation -[3674.10 --> 3674.72] is assured. -[3674.72 --> 3676.82] Jesus keeps you -[3676.82 --> 3677.98] from stumbling. -[3678.76 --> 3679.66] But we do doubt -[3679.66 --> 3680.30] this sometimes, -[3680.40 --> 3680.76] don't we? -[3681.40 --> 3682.16] And it makes sense. -[3682.30 --> 3682.94] We doubt it. -[3682.98 --> 3683.78] It's okay to doubt -[3683.78 --> 3684.30] things. -[3684.54 --> 3685.06] It takes faith -[3685.06 --> 3685.44] to doubt, -[3685.52 --> 3685.80] actually. -[3685.94 --> 3687.26] And it takes -[3687.26 --> 3687.88] curiosity -[3687.88 --> 3688.86] to seek answers. -[3688.86 --> 3690.26] When we question -[3690.26 --> 3690.78] or we doubt -[3690.78 --> 3691.86] the existence of God -[3691.86 --> 3692.22] or the way -[3692.22 --> 3692.92] that he operates -[3692.92 --> 3693.44] in this world, -[3693.52 --> 3694.08] the best advice -[3694.08 --> 3695.02] is to keep questioning. -[3695.86 --> 3696.52] That's always -[3696.52 --> 3697.24] the right answer. -[3697.30 --> 3698.02] But there's reasons -[3698.02 --> 3698.78] why we doubt -[3698.78 --> 3699.60] this promise. -[3700.86 --> 3701.42] We think about -[3701.42 --> 3703.00] the preservation -[3703.00 --> 3704.00] of the saints, -[3705.00 --> 3705.70] once saved, -[3705.80 --> 3706.58] always saved, -[3707.02 --> 3707.96] and we think about -[3707.96 --> 3708.78] people that we know -[3708.78 --> 3709.70] who have walked -[3709.70 --> 3710.44] away from the faith. -[3713.14 --> 3714.54] But when we do this, -[3714.68 --> 3716.04] we inadvertently -[3716.04 --> 3716.96] give mankind -[3716.96 --> 3718.30] too much credit. -[3719.30 --> 3720.56] We start believing -[3720.56 --> 3721.92] that we have something -[3721.92 --> 3723.20] to do with our salvation, -[3724.26 --> 3725.02] as if salvation -[3725.02 --> 3725.44] is something -[3725.44 --> 3726.90] that can be granted -[3726.90 --> 3727.66] and removed -[3727.66 --> 3729.12] because of our actions -[3729.12 --> 3730.08] or the decisions -[3730.08 --> 3731.12] that we make. -[3732.34 --> 3733.46] But that can't be. -[3734.66 --> 3736.16] People can't fall away -[3736.16 --> 3737.50] from Jesus' saving grace. -[3737.60 --> 3738.10] And here's why. -[3739.36 --> 3741.20] Salvation is forever. -[3741.92 --> 3742.46] Because again, -[3742.56 --> 3743.64] God is unchanging. -[3744.40 --> 3746.66] God's love cannot change. -[3747.28 --> 3748.42] And then God's salvation -[3748.42 --> 3749.64] cannot change. -[3750.80 --> 3752.96] Salvation is eternal. -[3753.14 --> 3753.80] By definition, -[3754.04 --> 3754.56] it has to be. -[3754.64 --> 3755.62] We are being saved -[3755.62 --> 3756.54] for eternity -[3756.54 --> 3757.64] or being saved -[3757.64 --> 3759.52] from eternal damnation. -[3760.22 --> 3761.38] But if salvation -[3761.38 --> 3762.50] can be lost, -[3763.50 --> 3764.72] if it's something -[3764.72 --> 3766.24] we can fall away from, -[3766.78 --> 3767.88] we've now made it -[3767.88 --> 3769.04] not eternal. -[3771.08 --> 3772.34] If I can lose it, -[3772.40 --> 3773.18] it's not everlasting. -[3774.88 --> 3775.20] Furthermore, -[3775.34 --> 3776.50] if I can walk my way -[3776.50 --> 3777.30] out of salvation, -[3777.70 --> 3778.66] or if I can work -[3778.66 --> 3779.76] my way out of salvation, -[3779.88 --> 3780.80] or if I can decide -[3780.80 --> 3781.90] my way out of salvation, -[3782.84 --> 3784.04] my salvation now -[3784.04 --> 3785.04] is ultimately dependent -[3785.04 --> 3785.90] on me, -[3787.22 --> 3788.08] not on Jesus. -[3791.92 --> 3792.62] Salvation is not -[3792.62 --> 3793.14] an allowance -[3793.14 --> 3793.70] that we get -[3793.70 --> 3794.66] as long as we do the work. -[3795.54 --> 3796.00] An allowance -[3796.00 --> 3796.82] that we stop getting -[3796.82 --> 3797.64] if we stop working. -[3798.98 --> 3799.80] Salvation is given -[3799.80 --> 3800.84] to those -[3800.84 --> 3802.10] who believe in Jesus -[3802.10 --> 3802.90] and true faith -[3802.90 --> 3803.78] can't be lost. -[3804.92 --> 3805.84] And so he keeps you. -[3805.94 --> 3806.48] The Greek word -[3806.48 --> 3807.70] in this text here is, -[3807.96 --> 3808.28] and man, -[3808.34 --> 3808.68] I'm going to butcher -[3808.68 --> 3809.18] this one too, -[3809.56 --> 3810.18] phoulioso -[3810.18 --> 3811.04] is what it's called -[3811.04 --> 3811.46] probably. -[3811.46 --> 3813.06] But the word -[3813.06 --> 3813.54] that I probably -[3813.54 --> 3814.18] can't pronounce -[3814.18 --> 3815.84] means to guard -[3815.84 --> 3818.44] or to watch over. -[3819.20 --> 3820.64] So Jesus is at his post -[3820.64 --> 3821.84] and he's standing guard -[3821.84 --> 3823.48] and he's standing watch -[3823.48 --> 3823.96] over those -[3823.96 --> 3824.78] who have put their faith -[3824.78 --> 3825.32] in him -[3825.32 --> 3826.32] and he's keeping them -[3826.32 --> 3827.48] from stumbling -[3827.48 --> 3828.82] eternally. -[3829.24 --> 3829.54] Now again, -[3829.64 --> 3830.62] don't minimize this -[3830.62 --> 3831.28] by thinking about -[3831.28 --> 3832.44] the little individual sins -[3832.44 --> 3833.20] that you may commit. -[3833.48 --> 3834.02] But understand, -[3834.14 --> 3835.28] Jesus is keeping us -[3835.28 --> 3836.96] for eternity. -[3837.16 --> 3837.94] He guards us -[3837.94 --> 3838.66] like shepherds -[3838.66 --> 3839.54] guard his sheep. -[3839.54 --> 3841.20] Jesus says in John 10, -[3841.28 --> 3842.10] 27 to 29, -[3842.18 --> 3842.54] he says this, -[3842.78 --> 3843.04] he says, -[3843.14 --> 3844.58] my sheep listen -[3844.58 --> 3845.70] to my voice. -[3846.42 --> 3847.32] I know them -[3847.32 --> 3848.20] and they follow me. -[3848.92 --> 3850.98] I give them eternal life -[3850.98 --> 3852.76] and they shall never perish. -[3852.92 --> 3854.10] No one will snatch them -[3854.10 --> 3854.78] out of my hand. -[3856.06 --> 3857.36] My Father who has given them -[3857.36 --> 3859.00] to me is greater than all. -[3859.72 --> 3861.06] No one can snatch them -[3861.06 --> 3863.42] out of my Father's hands. -[3864.06 --> 3866.00] See, salvation belongs -[3866.00 --> 3866.96] to our God. -[3867.76 --> 3868.42] Not to you, -[3868.42 --> 3870.60] and not once you're saved, -[3870.68 --> 3872.32] you're always saved. -[3873.36 --> 3873.92] Now take that in -[3873.92 --> 3874.36] for a moment. -[3874.76 --> 3875.68] Don't think about -[3875.68 --> 3876.72] the people around you -[3876.72 --> 3877.44] or people that you think -[3877.44 --> 3878.02] needs to hear -[3878.02 --> 3878.76] about this right now. -[3878.98 --> 3880.00] We all need to hear -[3880.00 --> 3880.64] this good news. -[3881.00 --> 3882.24] Your salvation -[3882.24 --> 3883.48] is certain. -[3885.02 --> 3886.14] It is assured. -[3886.96 --> 3887.78] The great shepherd -[3887.78 --> 3888.56] is guarding you. -[3888.66 --> 3889.90] He will keep you -[3889.90 --> 3891.52] for him forever. -[3893.02 --> 3893.96] Because of Jesus, -[3894.20 --> 3895.28] you are saved. -[3895.36 --> 3896.06] You can't earn it. -[3896.26 --> 3897.10] You can't buy it. -[3897.10 --> 3898.04] You can't rent it -[3898.04 --> 3898.62] for a weekend. -[3899.12 --> 3900.66] Salvation cannot be lost. -[3900.78 --> 3901.66] It cannot be found. -[3901.92 --> 3903.06] It cannot be thrown away. -[3903.36 --> 3904.06] It is kept. -[3904.36 --> 3906.20] And you are kept. -[3906.86 --> 3907.14] Amen? -[3908.22 --> 3908.84] There's more. -[3909.94 --> 3911.06] Jesus obtained -[3911.06 --> 3911.94] your salvation -[3911.94 --> 3912.64] on the cross. -[3912.74 --> 3913.46] He obtained -[3913.46 --> 3914.72] your salvation. -[3916.04 --> 3918.02] But now he maintains it -[3918.02 --> 3918.64] as well -[3918.64 --> 3920.10] from the throne above. -[3920.10 --> 3921.00] As our text says, -[3921.38 --> 3922.74] Jesus presents you -[3922.74 --> 3924.58] before his glorious presence -[3924.58 --> 3925.74] without fault -[3925.74 --> 3927.58] and with great joy. -[3927.86 --> 3928.96] He presents you -[3928.96 --> 3930.02] blameless -[3930.02 --> 3931.24] before the throne. -[3932.18 --> 3932.98] I think we can -[3932.98 --> 3934.02] shortchange this too -[3934.02 --> 3934.78] to be honest with you. -[3935.04 --> 3935.94] I relearned about -[3935.94 --> 3937.04] double imputation -[3937.04 --> 3937.68] this week. -[3938.16 --> 3939.18] Double imputation. -[3939.32 --> 3939.66] Theology. -[3939.78 --> 3940.12] Big words. -[3940.20 --> 3941.32] See, I know some big words too, Chris. -[3942.28 --> 3942.84] Sometimes -[3942.84 --> 3944.28] when we think -[3944.28 --> 3945.30] about being -[3945.30 --> 3946.06] forgiven -[3946.06 --> 3947.30] by God's grace, -[3947.30 --> 3949.96] we don't grasp -[3949.96 --> 3950.82] the full magnitude -[3950.82 --> 3951.46] of this. -[3952.70 --> 3953.58] I'm going to -[3953.58 --> 3954.10] riskily -[3954.10 --> 3955.18] let capitalism -[3955.18 --> 3956.02] illustrate this -[3956.02 --> 3956.48] for a moment, -[3956.58 --> 3957.48] so bear with me here. -[3957.54 --> 3958.10] I think actually -[3958.10 --> 3958.82] Al used this -[3958.82 --> 3959.22] in a sermon -[3959.22 --> 3959.92] a few years back, -[3959.98 --> 3960.44] so it might sound -[3960.44 --> 3961.34] familiar to some of you. -[3962.64 --> 3963.64] In our sin, -[3964.32 --> 3965.46] it's like we owe a debt. -[3965.62 --> 3966.84] Let's save a million dollars. -[3967.84 --> 3968.98] But with the cross -[3968.98 --> 3969.88] and the empty tomb, -[3970.06 --> 3970.68] Jesus came -[3970.68 --> 3971.78] and canceled our debt. -[3973.02 --> 3974.18] That's how we think -[3974.18 --> 3974.84] of God's grace -[3974.84 --> 3975.68] and forgiveness here. -[3975.94 --> 3976.36] And I think -[3976.36 --> 3977.28] when we think of this, -[3977.28 --> 3977.74] we do think -[3977.74 --> 3978.40] that's amazing. -[3978.60 --> 3979.60] I would have never been able -[3979.60 --> 3980.54] to pay off that debt -[3980.54 --> 3982.38] and Jesus took it from me. -[3983.70 --> 3984.68] The thing is, -[3984.80 --> 3986.28] if we owe a million dollars -[3986.28 --> 3987.24] and that debt's forgiven, -[3987.34 --> 3988.10] what are we left with? -[3989.12 --> 3990.28] If you have negative -[3990.28 --> 3991.28] a million dollars -[3991.28 --> 3992.14] and you're given -[3992.14 --> 3992.90] a million dollars -[3992.90 --> 3993.92] to pay off that debt, -[3994.14 --> 3994.98] what are you left with? -[3996.04 --> 3996.44] Nothing. -[3998.34 --> 3998.58] Church, -[3998.64 --> 3999.48] God's grace and mercy -[3999.48 --> 4000.94] is so much more than this. -[4002.16 --> 4002.38] You see, -[4002.44 --> 4003.12] not only does Jesus -[4003.12 --> 4004.14] take away our sin, -[4004.38 --> 4005.08] take away our debt, -[4005.08 --> 4007.00] He makes us righteous. -[4007.82 --> 4008.60] He not only covers -[4008.60 --> 4009.56] the million dollar debt, -[4009.74 --> 4010.48] but He gives you -[4010.48 --> 4011.28] a million dollars -[4011.28 --> 4012.08] on top of that. -[4012.34 --> 4013.26] That's almost -[4013.26 --> 4014.64] an entire down payment -[4014.64 --> 4015.82] on a small condo -[4015.82 --> 4016.84] on the outskirts -[4016.84 --> 4017.54] of the GVA. -[4017.80 --> 4018.48] I should have used -[4018.48 --> 4019.28] bigger increments -[4019.28 --> 4020.06] for this example. -[4020.06 --> 4022.48] point is, -[4023.10 --> 4024.50] not only is your debt forgiven, -[4025.38 --> 4026.42] not only is your sins -[4026.42 --> 4026.96] are forgiven, -[4027.54 --> 4028.38] but you are given -[4028.38 --> 4029.50] the gift of righteousness, -[4029.72 --> 4031.42] given a greater inheritance, -[4031.68 --> 4033.14] more than your debt -[4033.14 --> 4033.74] ever was. -[4034.92 --> 4035.62] You're not simply -[4035.62 --> 4036.62] made even, -[4036.74 --> 4037.62] you're made holy. -[4038.48 --> 4039.32] That's what double -[4039.32 --> 4040.28] imputation means. -[4040.52 --> 4041.26] You've been imputed, -[4041.36 --> 4042.12] you've been assigned -[4042.12 --> 4043.06] both forgiveness -[4043.06 --> 4043.98] and righteousness. -[4044.44 --> 4045.08] You've been given -[4045.08 --> 4045.90] both mercy -[4045.90 --> 4047.08] and glory. -[4048.32 --> 4049.20] You are presented -[4049.20 --> 4050.12] blameless -[4050.12 --> 4051.20] in the presence -[4051.20 --> 4052.22] of God. -[4052.78 --> 4053.86] Not simply forgiven, -[4054.84 --> 4055.60] blameless. -[4056.94 --> 4058.64] You are without fault. -[4062.44 --> 4063.08] Jesus looks at you -[4063.08 --> 4063.72] with great joy, -[4064.36 --> 4065.68] and when God looks at you, -[4065.76 --> 4066.48] He sees Christ. -[4066.48 --> 4067.36] Church, -[4069.62 --> 4070.62] this is the unbelievable -[4070.62 --> 4071.60] news of the gospel. -[4072.60 --> 4073.74] This is the good news -[4073.74 --> 4074.38] that Jude wants -[4074.38 --> 4075.12] his readers to hear. -[4075.18 --> 4076.06] He wants you to know -[4076.06 --> 4078.02] this truth, -[4078.36 --> 4080.14] so that we will respond -[4080.14 --> 4081.70] in the only way we can, -[4082.76 --> 4083.52] with praise, -[4084.90 --> 4086.48] with a doxology -[4086.48 --> 4087.28] to our Savior. -[4088.86 --> 4089.68] Pastor Chris said this -[4089.68 --> 4090.46] in a previous sermon, -[4090.58 --> 4091.48] but good theology -[4091.48 --> 4092.80] leads to doxology. -[4093.62 --> 4094.86] Doxology is expressions -[4094.86 --> 4095.86] of gratitude -[4095.86 --> 4096.88] gratitude and praise, -[4097.00 --> 4097.80] knowing that we are -[4097.80 --> 4098.14] forgiven, -[4098.32 --> 4099.32] knowing that we are -[4099.32 --> 4100.06] made righteous, -[4100.24 --> 4101.64] knowing that our salvation -[4101.64 --> 4103.42] is assured and eternal, -[4103.52 --> 4104.08] that we are seen -[4104.08 --> 4105.66] blameless in God's eyes -[4105.66 --> 4106.62] despite the lives -[4106.62 --> 4107.36] that you and I -[4107.36 --> 4108.12] both know we live. -[4109.02 --> 4109.76] That can only be -[4109.76 --> 4110.94] responded to in one way, -[4111.02 --> 4111.22] right? -[4112.74 --> 4113.96] When we grasp -[4113.96 --> 4115.50] even a chunk -[4115.50 --> 4116.48] of the magnitude -[4116.48 --> 4118.02] of what He has done -[4118.02 --> 4118.40] for us, -[4118.52 --> 4119.40] and the surety -[4119.40 --> 4120.14] that we have -[4120.14 --> 4121.48] in the promises of God, -[4121.66 --> 4122.80] our scope of reality -[4122.80 --> 4123.52] should change. -[4123.52 --> 4125.16] Our praise -[4125.16 --> 4126.08] should just flow -[4126.08 --> 4126.82] out of us. -[4129.38 --> 4130.30] A couple years ago, -[4130.42 --> 4131.40] my brother-in-law -[4131.40 --> 4132.78] invited Nicky and I -[4132.78 --> 4133.94] on a flight, -[4134.20 --> 4134.92] to go on a flight. -[4134.98 --> 4135.80] He's a pilot now, -[4135.88 --> 4136.78] but a few years ago, -[4136.84 --> 4137.28] I guess he needed -[4137.28 --> 4138.08] more air time, -[4138.16 --> 4138.82] so he needed to get up -[4138.82 --> 4139.40] in the air a little bit -[4139.40 --> 4139.76] more often, -[4140.16 --> 4141.02] or he was just being -[4141.02 --> 4141.48] super nice, -[4141.54 --> 4141.82] I don't know. -[4141.86 --> 4142.48] But he invited Nicky -[4142.48 --> 4143.14] and I on this flight -[4143.14 --> 4144.00] in a little four-seater -[4144.00 --> 4144.40] airplane, -[4144.80 --> 4145.28] and we were allowed -[4145.28 --> 4146.22] to take one of our kids. -[4146.90 --> 4147.94] So we left our oldest -[4147.94 --> 4148.56] and our youngest -[4148.56 --> 4149.54] at home with Grandma, -[4149.66 --> 4150.46] and we took Isla, -[4150.58 --> 4151.18] our middle kid, -[4151.18 --> 4151.70] with us, -[4151.80 --> 4152.58] and she got to come -[4152.58 --> 4153.30] and sit in the back -[4153.30 --> 4154.08] corner of this little -[4154.08 --> 4154.92] four-seater airplane. -[4155.28 --> 4155.92] She was maybe five -[4155.92 --> 4156.30] at the time. -[4157.34 --> 4158.16] Because it was a small -[4158.16 --> 4158.42] plane, -[4158.48 --> 4159.04] we had to put on -[4159.04 --> 4160.26] those cool headphones -[4160.26 --> 4161.40] with the sets -[4161.40 --> 4161.86] so that we could -[4161.86 --> 4162.44] talk to each other -[4162.44 --> 4163.28] because it was super loud, -[4163.54 --> 4164.18] and so that Jared -[4164.18 --> 4165.08] could talk to the tower -[4165.08 --> 4165.82] and to the other planes -[4165.82 --> 4166.32] in the area. -[4167.32 --> 4168.20] And then we took off, -[4168.42 --> 4169.38] and our plane is going up, -[4169.42 --> 4169.88] and it's loud, -[4169.94 --> 4170.58] and we're getting higher -[4170.58 --> 4170.88] and higher, -[4170.94 --> 4171.86] and it's such a cool night, -[4171.96 --> 4172.54] and Jared's trying -[4172.54 --> 4173.44] to talk to the tower -[4173.44 --> 4174.08] to communicate -[4174.08 --> 4174.96] what he needs to communicate, -[4175.34 --> 4176.14] but he gets interrupted -[4176.14 --> 4176.90] every four seconds -[4176.90 --> 4177.80] by this little tiny, -[4177.90 --> 4178.38] girly voice -[4178.38 --> 4178.94] in the back corner -[4178.94 --> 4179.62] of the plane going, -[4180.06 --> 4184.58] wow, wow, wow, -[4185.48 --> 4186.62] every four seconds, -[4186.92 --> 4190.50] wow, wow, wow. -[4190.54 --> 4192.80] She started to see her world -[4192.80 --> 4194.70] from this different perspective. -[4195.74 --> 4196.68] She started to realize -[4196.68 --> 4197.58] the magnitude -[4197.58 --> 4199.24] of the Fraser Valley, -[4199.34 --> 4200.90] the beauty of the view, -[4200.98 --> 4202.08] and the joy of rising -[4202.08 --> 4202.82] and above it all -[4202.82 --> 4203.76] just filled her up. -[4204.56 --> 4205.68] Jared couldn't communicate -[4205.68 --> 4208.52] to the, wow, wow, -[4208.94 --> 4211.00] over and over and over again. -[4213.74 --> 4214.94] That's our response -[4214.94 --> 4216.60] to what Jesus has done for us. -[4217.86 --> 4219.06] When we understand -[4219.06 --> 4220.34] all Jesus has done for us, -[4220.40 --> 4221.12] our response just, -[4221.38 --> 4224.78] it can only be, wow, wow. -[4226.36 --> 4227.46] And it's not just -[4227.46 --> 4229.16] when things hit home -[4229.16 --> 4229.96] and we're on these -[4229.96 --> 4230.64] spiritual highs -[4230.64 --> 4231.54] and things are going good -[4231.54 --> 4232.26] that we praise him. -[4233.22 --> 4234.42] When life is hard, -[4235.42 --> 4237.42] we can rejoice in his name -[4237.42 --> 4238.92] because honestly, -[4240.04 --> 4240.98] our only hope -[4240.98 --> 4241.92] in hard times is him. -[4243.92 --> 4245.06] Our only hope -[4245.06 --> 4245.90] in hard times -[4245.90 --> 4247.44] is that he is ruling -[4247.44 --> 4248.10] over everything. -[4251.70 --> 4252.74] It's why worshiping -[4252.74 --> 4253.28] is done -[4253.28 --> 4254.54] at weddings -[4254.54 --> 4256.06] and at funerals, -[4256.22 --> 4257.04] at baptisms -[4257.04 --> 4258.48] and at memorials. -[4258.48 --> 4263.76] when life is hard, -[4263.86 --> 4264.52] we can sing, -[4264.52 --> 4266.14] it is well with my soul -[4266.14 --> 4268.20] and we just feel -[4268.20 --> 4269.56] God's arms around our heart, -[4269.64 --> 4269.92] don't we? -[4270.02 --> 4271.26] When the weight of shame -[4271.26 --> 4271.80] and guilt -[4271.80 --> 4274.08] is weighing on our shoulders -[4274.08 --> 4275.98] and we sing amazing grace, -[4276.98 --> 4278.22] man, we can grasp -[4278.22 --> 4279.26] how true and infinite -[4279.26 --> 4280.34] God's grace is -[4280.34 --> 4281.92] and how free we are -[4281.92 --> 4282.62] from our sins. -[4282.98 --> 4284.74] And when a pandemic ends -[4284.74 --> 4286.10] and our church is allowed -[4286.10 --> 4287.56] to gather together again, -[4287.90 --> 4289.22] uninhibited by anything, -[4289.34 --> 4291.04] and we can sing the song, -[4291.38 --> 4292.84] Oh, praise the name -[4292.84 --> 4294.36] of the Lord our God. -[4294.92 --> 4295.94] It moves us to tears. -[4298.00 --> 4299.10] I see good theology -[4299.10 --> 4301.36] leads to doxology. -[4301.70 --> 4302.58] Knowing what God -[4302.58 --> 4303.48] has done for us -[4303.48 --> 4305.24] leads us to praise him. -[4305.44 --> 4306.56] And it's not just singing -[4306.56 --> 4308.10] to him, -[4308.52 --> 4309.16] though we should -[4309.16 --> 4309.78] and we will -[4309.78 --> 4310.90] and we will continue to, -[4311.72 --> 4313.38] but it's living lives -[4313.38 --> 4314.40] of praise for him. -[4314.40 --> 4316.02] See, praise then becomes -[4316.02 --> 4316.68] our mission. -[4318.06 --> 4319.86] Our mission is to praise him. -[4320.78 --> 4322.22] When the Israelites -[4322.22 --> 4322.90] were in Exodus, -[4323.40 --> 4324.24] God told Moses -[4324.24 --> 4325.14] to lead his people -[4325.14 --> 4325.64] out of Egypt -[4325.64 --> 4326.30] so they could what? -[4327.14 --> 4327.84] Worship him. -[4328.60 --> 4329.36] When his people -[4329.36 --> 4330.20] were in exile -[4330.20 --> 4331.76] in Babylon and Persia, -[4331.82 --> 4332.70] they were told to go back -[4332.70 --> 4333.54] and rebuild the walls -[4333.54 --> 4334.38] in the temple to what? -[4335.56 --> 4336.28] Worship him. -[4336.66 --> 4337.18] To praise him. -[4337.38 --> 4338.04] When Jesus came -[4338.04 --> 4338.70] into this world -[4338.70 --> 4339.82] and lived the life -[4339.82 --> 4340.44] we should have lived -[4340.44 --> 4341.24] and died the death -[4341.24 --> 4341.98] we deserve to die -[4341.98 --> 4342.96] and then rose again -[4342.96 --> 4343.84] for all the cosmos, -[4343.84 --> 4344.82] what does he call us -[4344.82 --> 4345.20] to do? -[4346.34 --> 4347.08] Worship him. -[4348.40 --> 4349.36] Our lives, -[4349.50 --> 4350.18] our calling, -[4350.30 --> 4351.02] our mission -[4351.02 --> 4352.58] is to praise him. -[4352.78 --> 4353.64] More than anything, -[4354.04 --> 4354.62] we are called -[4354.62 --> 4355.88] to respond to the gifts -[4355.88 --> 4356.64] of God -[4356.64 --> 4358.20] by living lives -[4358.20 --> 4359.22] of praise -[4359.22 --> 4360.24] to God. -[4362.04 --> 4362.72] This quote -[4362.72 --> 4363.50] from John Piper -[4363.50 --> 4364.72] kind of keeps coming up -[4364.72 --> 4365.18] in our church -[4365.18 --> 4366.04] in the last couple weeks, -[4366.14 --> 4367.14] but it's so applicable -[4367.14 --> 4367.84] to this sermon, -[4367.98 --> 4368.48] so applicable -[4368.48 --> 4369.20] to this message -[4369.20 --> 4369.68] from Jude. -[4370.42 --> 4371.42] John Piper says this, -[4371.42 --> 4372.98] it says, -[4373.10 --> 4374.04] missions is not -[4374.04 --> 4374.78] the ultimate goal -[4374.78 --> 4375.30] of the church. -[4376.34 --> 4377.10] Worship is. -[4378.12 --> 4379.16] Missions exist -[4379.16 --> 4381.08] because worship doesn't. -[4382.72 --> 4383.86] Worship is ultimate, -[4384.66 --> 4385.50] not missions -[4385.50 --> 4387.04] because God is ultimate, -[4387.70 --> 4388.32] not man. -[4389.82 --> 4390.96] When this age is over -[4390.96 --> 4392.76] and the countless millions -[4392.76 --> 4393.56] of the redeemed -[4393.56 --> 4394.68] fall on their faces -[4394.68 --> 4395.94] before the throne of God, -[4397.00 --> 4398.00] missions will be no more. -[4398.00 --> 4401.36] It's a temporary necessity, -[4402.18 --> 4403.40] but worship -[4403.40 --> 4405.34] abides forever. -[4406.70 --> 4408.50] So worship is the fuel -[4408.50 --> 4409.78] and goal -[4409.78 --> 4410.92] of mission. -[4413.02 --> 4414.60] Our lives are meant -[4414.60 --> 4415.58] to praise him. -[4417.16 --> 4418.14] And so that's the question -[4418.14 --> 4419.04] for us here today. -[4420.76 --> 4423.06] Is our life praising God? -[4424.86 --> 4425.84] I'm going to invite -[4425.84 --> 4427.10] the praise team up right now. -[4427.10 --> 4427.40] Actually, -[4427.42 --> 4427.84] they're going to make -[4427.84 --> 4428.62] their way to the stage -[4428.62 --> 4429.04] right now -[4429.04 --> 4429.80] because today, -[4430.18 --> 4430.94] like every week, -[4430.98 --> 4431.52] we're actually going to -[4431.52 --> 4433.10] respond to this message -[4433.10 --> 4435.64] in praise to our God. -[4436.50 --> 4437.24] And as they make their way -[4437.24 --> 4437.82] up front here, -[4437.86 --> 4437.98] though, -[4437.98 --> 4438.80] I want us to remember -[4438.80 --> 4439.94] Jude's doxology. -[4440.08 --> 4440.74] Remember the words -[4440.74 --> 4441.36] from this text. -[4441.48 --> 4442.46] Let these truths -[4442.46 --> 4443.42] ring in your heart -[4443.42 --> 4444.54] as we respond in praise. -[4444.88 --> 4445.72] You are kept. -[4446.32 --> 4447.56] You're guarded by Jesus -[4447.56 --> 4448.34] and your salvation -[4448.34 --> 4448.98] is secure. -[4449.98 --> 4451.54] You are not only forgiven, -[4452.42 --> 4453.52] but you are righteous -[4453.52 --> 4454.82] in the eyes -[4454.82 --> 4455.94] of Jesus your Savior -[4455.94 --> 4457.20] and you are viewed -[4457.20 --> 4458.68] as blameless -[4458.68 --> 4460.04] in the eyes of God. -[4461.00 --> 4461.52] And so church, -[4461.62 --> 4461.82] brothers, -[4461.96 --> 4462.62] sisters in Christ, -[4462.68 --> 4463.76] above all know this. -[4465.84 --> 4467.08] Salvation belongs -[4467.08 --> 4467.96] to our God -[4467.96 --> 4469.48] who sits upon the throne. -[4471.04 --> 4472.44] So unto the Lamb -[4472.44 --> 4473.28] be praise -[4473.28 --> 4474.28] and glory, -[4474.74 --> 4475.12] wisdom -[4475.12 --> 4476.32] and thanks, -[4476.56 --> 4476.92] honor -[4476.92 --> 4478.12] and power -[4478.12 --> 4479.28] and strength -[4479.28 --> 4480.70] to our God -[4480.70 --> 4481.68] forever and ever. -[4481.78 --> 4481.98] Amen? -[4481.98 --> 4483.34] Please stand. -[4483.40 --> 4483.70] Let's sing. -[4483.70 --> 4501.86] Salvation belongs to our God -[4501.86 --> 4507.18] Who sits upon the throne -[4507.18 --> 4513.82] And come to the throne -[4513.82 --> 4519.78] Praise and glory, wisdom and thanks -[4519.78 --> 4525.62] With honor and power and strength -[4525.62 --> 4531.86] He to our God forever and ever -[4531.86 --> 4537.82] He to our God forever and ever -[4537.82 --> 4543.78] He to our God forever and ever -[4543.78 --> 4544.94] Amen -[4544.94 --> 4554.22] And we, our redeemed, shall be strong -[4554.22 --> 4560.88] In purpose and unity -[4560.88 --> 4566.22] Declaring our love -[4566.86 --> 4572.22] Praise and glory, wisdom and thanks -[4572.88 --> 4578.22] Honor and power and strength -[4578.22 --> 4584.18] He to our God forever and ever -[4584.18 --> 4590.18] He to our God forever and ever -[4590.18 --> 4596.18] He to our God forever and ever -[4596.18 --> 4597.18] Amen -[4597.18 --> 4607.14] Be to our God forever and ever -[4607.14 --> 4609.14] Amen -[4609.14 --> 4614.14] Be to our God forever and ever -[4614.14 --> 4620.14] Be to our God forever and ever -[4620.14 --> 4621.14] Amen -[4621.14 --> 4627.10] Amen -[4627.10 --> 4631.10] Be to our God forever and ever -[4631.10 --> 4632.10] Amen -[4632.10 --> 4637.10] Be to our God forever and ever -[4637.10 --> 4643.10] Be to our God forever and ever -[4643.10 --> 4644.10] Amen -[4644.10 --> 4654.12] And so pray with me -[4654.12 --> 4657.78] God, we thank you so much for your son -[4657.78 --> 4660.64] Thank you for the gifts that he has given us -[4660.64 --> 4662.20] The salvation that we find -[4662.20 --> 4663.92] Not just in the cross, God -[4663.92 --> 4664.84] But in the empty tomb -[4664.84 --> 4666.62] In his life and his death and his resurrection -[4666.62 --> 4669.08] And Lord, we are grateful that -[4669.08 --> 4671.06] Not only are our sins simply forgiven -[4671.06 --> 4673.06] But God, you have made us righteous -[4673.06 --> 4675.16] So that we are seen blameless in his sight -[4675.16 --> 4677.92] Thank you for that salvation that is assured to us -[4677.92 --> 4678.42] Through Jesus -[4678.42 --> 4680.06] And as we go from this place -[4680.06 --> 4683.12] May we live lives of praise to you -[4683.12 --> 4685.16] We pray this in your name -[4685.16 --> 4685.58] Amen -[4685.58 --> 4688.48] Now receive this parting blessing -[4688.48 --> 4690.40] The priestly blessing from number six -[4690.40 --> 4693.48] The Lord bless you and keep you -[4693.48 --> 4696.14] The Lord make his face shine upon you -[4696.14 --> 4697.36] And be gracious to you -[4697.36 --> 4699.88] The Lord turn his face toward you -[4699.88 --> 4702.00] And give you his peace -[4702.00 --> 4703.44] And all God's people said -[4703.44 --> 4704.50] Amen -[4704.50 --> 4734.48] Thank you. -[4734.50 --> 4764.48] Thank you. -[4764.50 --> 4766.50] Thank you. -[4794.50 --> 4801.50] Praise Him, all creatures here below. -[4803.84 --> 4814.32] Praise Him above, ye heavenly hosts. -[4814.32 --> 4827.66] Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. -[4827.66 --> 4833.20] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 23, 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 23, 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d99759e5a683340a1c8cf73ac77141aae864a48c..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 23, 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,114 +0,0 @@ -• Worship service begins -• Discussion of COVID-19 restrictions and potential for gathered worship to resume -• Invitation to open hearts to receive God's greeting in worship -• Prayers and songs for the Holy Spirit, including "Come, Holy Spirit" and "Our Father everlasting" -• Recitation of the Apostles' Creed -• Resurrection and faith in Jesus Christ -• The Trinity: God as Father, Son (Christ), and Holy Spirit -• Quotes from Titus 3 regarding salvation and the Holy Spirit -• Prayers for the Holy Spirit to breathe new life, bring presence of risen Lord, and make whole -• Requests for faith, passion, purity, joy, kindness, gentleness, and love -• Petitions for the church to hunger for God's ways and for Christ to be seen clearly in the world -• Discussion of memory verse from Isaiah 41:13 -• Announcement and distribution of snack gifts (carrots, broccoli, tomatoes, oranges, lemons) -• Offer to trade original gift for a new one -• Discussion of a large package sent to the speaker with various gardening supplies and seeds -• Comparison between the gardening supplies and the story in the book of Acts, chapter 3, about Peter healing a crippled beggar -• Explanation of how Peter's actions were not just physical healing but also spiritual transformation and eternal life through Jesus -• The speaker discusses a story about Jesus empowering Peter and John to help someone walk and bring glory to God. -• The speaker encourages listeners to think about glorifying God not just through big actions, but also through small daily things like prayer and gratitude. -• The church's offerings for the day are discussed, including donations for the Ministry to Seafarers and CTE-N. -• A passage from 1 Timothy 6 is read, emphasizing the importance of contentment with what one has. -• The speaker asks listeners to consider giving towards today's offerings and explains various ways to donate during this difficult season. -• Worship and praise to God -• COVID-19 pandemic situation and prayers for healing and relief -• Concerns for those suffering due to various reasons beyond the pandemic -• Prayers for help in serving others, including laying them at God's feet -• Recognition of church leaders and servants, including Pastor Chris's message -• A crowd gathered in bewilderment, hearing their own languages being spoken -• People from various nations heard the apostles speaking in their native tongues -• Some mocked the idea that they were drunk or hallucinating -• The experience was described as amazing and perplexing -• A personal anecdote about a principal who claimed to have received a message from God through a book, similar to the apostle's experience -• The Spirit is alive and active in the world -• Miraculous healings have been reported and confirmed by medical professionals -• Pentecost is a celebration of God's presence and work in the world -• The church should expect to see God at work through prayer, worship, and service -• Most people's understanding of Pentecost is limited to its Christian holiday or liturgical significance. -• The festival of Pentecost is mentioned and explained as a Jewish holiday -• Pentecost marks the receiving of the law (Ten Commandments) and the harvest, specifically the first fruits of the harvest -• It's one of three pilgrimage festivals in Jewish practice that requires travel to Jerusalem for worship -• The festival occurs 50 days after Passover and is connected to the story of Israel leaving Egypt and receiving the law at Mount Sinai -• Discussion of a map showing regions from around the world that bring people together in Jerusalem for the festival of Pentecost -• Mention of various countries and peoples represented at Pentecost, including Parthians, Medians, Elamites, Mesopotamia, Judea, Cappadocia, Pontius, Asia, Phrygia, Pamphylia, Egypt, Libya, Cyrene, Rome, Crete, and Arabia -• Explanation that the festival of Pentecost is about law and life lived in response to it, as well as harvest and people coming to Jerusalem -• Importance of understanding the Jewish roots of Pentecost for Christians to better comprehend its role in their faith -• Discussion of the gifts of the Spirit, specifically the charismatic gifts. -• Pentecost and the role of the Spirit -• Charismatic gifts such as speaking in tongues, prophecy, and healing -• The law in Jewish tradition and its original purpose for guiding people in living a life in response to God -• How the law can become a means of exclusion and division rather than life and relationship with God -• The importance of rules and their original intention to provide safety and opportunity -• How rules can become elevated and prioritized over life itself, leading to legalism -• The danger of elevating rules into a wall that keeps people trapped rather than a fence to keep out the bad -• The contrast between the law and the life that comes with it, as seen in Pentecost -• The Christian tradition's tendency towards legalism and its effects on believers -• The glory and transience of Moses' ministry -• Comparison between the law brought by Moses and the ministry that brings righteousness through Christ -• Pentecost as a turning point in understanding God's plan and purpose -• The inadequacy of the law to convict sin and its inability to bring about salvation -• Romans 8:3, where Paul explains that God did what the law could not do by sending Jesus to be a sacrifice for sin. -• The concept that life is defined by the spirit, not the law -• Identity as Christians is no longer bound by rules and regulations but in freedom -• Pentecost represents a change in identities through relationship to Jesus -• Being transformed by the Spirit to live fully and freely in Jesus Christ -• No longer slaves to sin, but friends of Jesus and children of God -• Understanding identity in Jesus Christ through grace and faith as sons and daughters of the Father -• The importance of Pentecost and the Holy Spirit -• The purpose of Pentecost is to reveal one's identity as a child of God by grace through faith -• The power of Pentecost gives direction and purpose to one's life, enabling them to accomplish something -• Jesus' command to the disciples to go to Jerusalem and wait for the Holy Spirit's arrival -• The meaning and significance of being witnesses, including its connection to martyrdom -• The speaker discusses the concept of a witness in a court of law and how it relates to being a Christian witness -• The difference between being a witness before a judge and living a life that testifies to one's faith -• The importance of living a life that is a testimony to Jesus Christ, rather than just speaking about Him -• The distinction between being a witness in a court setting and evangelism through lifestyle and words -• The need for Christians to be prepared to give an account of their faith at all times -• The relationship between the gospel and being saved -• Importance of preaching the gospel for people to believe -• Purpose of Pentecostalism: spreading the good news globally -• Contrast between speaking in tongues and evangelism as a focus of Pentecostal power -• Example from Acts 2, where 3,000 were added to the church after Peter's sermon -• Definition of Pentecost: proclaiming the gospel and harvest for God's kingdom -• The speaker explains that the message of salvation is to be shared with both the living and the dead. -• The speaker discusses the challenges of sharing this message, including feeling unsure or inadequate. -• Peter's sermon in Acts 2 is referenced as an example of how even a leading figure like Peter may not have known all the answers at the time. -• The story of Peter highlights that it's okay to not know everything and that the message of salvation is for all people, regardless of their background. -• The speaker concludes by reiterating that it's normal not to have all the answers and that others may view one as crazy or inadequate in sharing the message. -• The speaker discusses the idea that Christians will face ridicule and criticism when preaching the gospel -• The biblical concept of being "foolish" for Christ is mentioned, referencing 1 Corinthians -• The importance of focusing on the Pentecostal purpose and Spirit's transformative power in lives -• Going global as missionaries or spreading the gospel to nations is emphasized -• Encouragement is given to those feeling called to be vocational full-time missionaries, with an invitation to reach out for support and guidance -• Calling to global missions and being a missionary -• Every Christian is a missionary by definition -• Telling the story of God's work in the world through Jesus Christ -• The power of the Spirit in telling the story and living in Pentecostal purpose -• Transformation and growth as a church through proclaiming God's goodness -• Being called by God, recreated, and sent to proclaim His glory and goodness -• Invocation of the Holy Spirit and Pentecostal power -• Requesting God's touch, love, and presence in lives -• Calling down rain (Holy Spirit) to bring change and renewal -• Inviting God's power and voice to be heard -• Praying for open heaven and blessing over church and individuals -• Offering words of encouragement and reassurance for the journey ahead -• Praying for God's power and presence in difficult times -• Acknowledging God's sovereignty and love even in storms and struggles -• Recognizing the importance of faith, hope, and perseverance -• Longing to return to a place of safety, security, and spiritual connection (church) -• Reflecting on the value of community, family, and faith in overcoming challenges -• Desires a return to past experiences -• Reference to a preacher and scripture -• Memories of being at one's worst -• Longing for first love -• Desire to attend church \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 23, 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 23, 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3bb8b5c5580ba42356c3ac8ce251b61544da9bc5..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 23, 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2565 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 92.00] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 122.00] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 152.00] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 182.00] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 212.00] Thank you. -[212.00 --> 218.00] Hold up your hand, keep pressing on. -[218.00 --> 222.00] We are almost home. -[222.00 --> 226.00] Almost home. -[226.00 --> 230.00] Almost home. -[230.00 --> 232.00] Whoa. -[232.00 --> 234.00] Whoa. -[234.00 --> 239.00] I know that the cross has brought heaven to us. -[239.00 --> 242.00] Make no mistake, there's still more to come. -[242.00 --> 246.00] When our flesh and our bones are no longer between. -[246.00 --> 250.00] We are right now and where we're meant to be. -[250.00 --> 253.00] Well, all that's been lost is made whole again. -[253.00 --> 257.00] These tears and this pain no longer exists. -[257.00 --> 258.00] No more walking. -[258.00 --> 261.00] We're running as fast as we can. -[261.00 --> 262.00] Consider this. -[262.00 --> 267.00] I'm saying we're almost home. -[267.00 --> 271.00] Brother, it won't be alone. -[271.00 --> 277.00] Soon all your burdens will be gone. -[277.00 --> 285.00] With all your strength, sister, run wild, run free. -[285.00 --> 293.00] Hold up your hand, keep pressing on. -[293.00 --> 295.00] We are almost home. -[295.00 --> 297.00] Almost home. -[297.00 --> 299.00] Almost home. -[299.00 --> 301.00] Almost home. -[301.00 --> 323.00] Almost home. -[331.00 --> 343.38] On the nights when the dark lasts a little bit longer -[343.38 --> 349.72] When the wind and the storm is a little bit stronger -[349.72 --> 356.22] When the fear in my heart digs a little bit deeper -[356.22 --> 362.62] When my faith just ain't, it's a little bit weaker -[362.62 --> 370.36] Where could I run to? Where could I go? -[386.22 --> 396.26] The start of the gospel movement that would become the church -[396.26 --> 398.58] Oh, okay -[398.58 --> 399.98] Say when -[399.98 --> 404.90] Good morning, take two -[404.90 --> 408.80] Thanks for joining us this morning together in worship -[408.80 --> 411.50] Today is a special Sunday, it is Pentecost -[411.50 --> 413.94] Where we mark the coming of the Holy Spirit -[413.94 --> 420.22] And so today it's my hope and prayer that we will worship in spirit and in truth together -[420.22 --> 424.00] My name is Chris, I'm one of the pastors here at Langley Emanuel -[424.00 --> 428.00] And it's my privilege along with those on stage and at the back -[428.00 --> 430.68] To lead you in worship this morning -[430.68 --> 434.30] Before we begin in earnest with song and prayer together -[434.30 --> 435.82] Just one announcement -[435.82 --> 439.08] And I'm sure many of you are aware of this already -[439.08 --> 442.48] But on Tuesday here in BC -[442.48 --> 447.90] The circuit breaker COVID restrictions that we are currently under are coming to an end -[447.90 --> 449.82] And there will be new protocols issued -[449.82 --> 451.34] And we are hopeful -[451.34 --> 454.00] Loosely holding on to that hope of course -[454.00 --> 459.62] But we are hopeful that that will include some opportunities for gathered worship once again -[459.62 --> 464.18] And so you can anticipate on Tuesday following that announcement -[464.18 --> 466.50] An announcement from church offices here -[466.50 --> 469.04] Clarifying what that process will be like -[469.04 --> 473.20] And how we will start that chance to regather again -[473.20 --> 477.10] And so you can look for the sign-up lists and everything to come from the office -[477.10 --> 481.44] On Tuesday evening after we have a chance to hear what the announcement is -[481.44 --> 487.32] And make our plans in accordance and in align with what we are able to do -[487.32 --> 488.60] And so keep that ready -[488.60 --> 491.84] Keep your eye out for that email to come out -[491.84 --> 494.54] And that announcement for that chance for us to worship -[494.54 --> 496.50] As we gather together this morning -[496.50 --> 498.76] I invite you to open your heart -[498.76 --> 502.02] Whether you stand or take a posture of your hands out -[502.02 --> 507.42] To receive the greeting of God who meets us together in worship -[507.42 --> 513.76] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father -[513.76 --> 518.32] From the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior -[518.32 --> 523.12] And through the indwelling presence and power of the Holy Spirit -[523.12 --> 524.62] Amen -[524.62 --> 526.38] Let's worship God this morning -[526.38 --> 536.38] Spirit of the living God -[536.38 --> 540.44] Visit us again on this day of Pentecost -[540.44 --> 543.36] Come, Holy Spirit -[543.36 --> 548.26] With rushing wind that sweeps away all barriers -[548.26 --> 552.28] Come, Holy Spirit -[552.28 --> 557.62] With tongues of fire that set our hearts aflame -[557.62 --> 560.48] Come, Holy Spirit -[560.48 --> 565.14] With speech that unites the babble of our tongues -[565.14 --> 568.02] Come, Holy Spirit -[568.02 --> 573.50] With love that overlaps the boundaries of race and nation -[573.50 --> 576.40] Come, Holy Spirit -[576.40 --> 581.42] With power from above to make our weakness strong -[581.42 --> 584.28] Come, Holy Spirit -[584.28 --> 600.78] Our Father everlasting -[600.78 --> 605.12] The all-creating one -[605.12 --> 608.36] God almighty -[608.36 --> 614.54] Through your Holy Spirit -[614.54 --> 618.86] Conceiving Christ the Son -[618.86 --> 622.00] Jesus our Savior -[622.00 --> 627.78] I believe in God our Father -[627.78 --> 631.42] I believe in Christ the Son -[631.42 --> 634.42] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[634.42 --> 638.38] Our God is three in one -[638.38 --> 641.38] I believe in the resurrection -[641.38 --> 645.08] That we will rise again -[645.08 --> 651.26] For I believe in the name of Jesus -[651.26 --> 668.44] Our judge and our defender -[668.44 --> 671.54] Suffered and crucified -[671.54 --> 677.58] Forgiveness is in you -[677.58 --> 681.06] Descended into darkness -[681.06 --> 685.06] You rose in glorious life -[685.06 --> 689.48] Forever seated high -[689.48 --> 694.56] I believe in God our Father -[694.56 --> 697.98] I believe in Christ the Son -[697.98 --> 701.16] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[701.16 --> 704.64] Our God is three in one -[704.64 --> 707.46] I believe in the resurrection -[707.46 --> 711.12] That we will rise again -[711.12 --> 717.12] For I believe in the name of Jesus -[717.12 --> 725.08] I believe in you -[725.08 --> 730.56] I believe you rose again -[730.56 --> 741.56] I believe that Jesus Christ is Lord -[741.56 --> 751.02] I believe in you -[751.02 --> 757.32] I believe you rose again. -[759.00 --> 767.00] I believe that Jesus Christ is Lord. -[771.40 --> 775.66] I believe in life eternal. -[776.30 --> 779.26] I believe in the virgin birth. -[779.26 --> 782.50] I believe in the saints communion. -[783.22 --> 786.22] And in your holy church. -[786.56 --> 789.10] I believe in the resurrection. -[789.88 --> 792.76] When Jesus comes again. -[793.36 --> 798.84] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[799.96 --> 802.60] I believe in God our Father. -[803.24 --> 805.92] I believe in Christ the Son. -[805.92 --> 809.04] I believe in the Holy Spirit. -[809.26 --> 812.54] Our God is three in one. -[812.88 --> 815.38] I believe in the resurrection. -[816.18 --> 818.88] That we will rise again. -[819.44 --> 824.80] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[824.80 --> 831.36] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[831.36 --> 838.36] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[838.36 --> 839.76] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[839.76 --> 839.86] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[839.86 --> 842.16] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[842.16 --> 857.64] For the God is one of thế -[857.64 --> 860.58] comes to us from Titus 3 this morning. -[861.74 --> 867.00] But when the kindness and love of God, our Savior, appeared, -[868.16 --> 873.10] he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, -[873.82 --> 875.66] but because of his mercy. -[876.90 --> 881.14] He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal -[881.14 --> 886.24] by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously -[886.24 --> 888.72] through Jesus Christ, our Savior, -[889.72 --> 893.44] so that, having been justified by his grace, -[894.02 --> 898.78] we might become heirs, having the hope of eternal life. -[916.24 --> 933.72] Holy Spirit, living breath of God, -[933.72 --> 939.20] breathe new life into my willing soul. -[940.62 --> 952.60] Bring the presence of the risen Lord to renew my heart and make me whole. -[952.60 --> 960.08] Cause your word to come alive in me. -[960.08 --> 966.58] Give me faith for what I cannot see. -[967.12 --> 972.40] Give me passion for your purity. -[973.14 --> 978.80] Holy Spirit, breathe new life in me. -[978.80 --> 986.54] Holy Spirit, come abide within. -[986.54 --> 993.28] Make your joy be seen in all I do. -[993.28 --> 999.62] Love enough to cover every sin -[999.62 --> 1004.78] in each thought and deed and attitude. -[1004.78 --> 1013.22] Kindness to the greatest and the least. -[1014.52 --> 1019.56] Gentleness that sows a pop of peace. -[1020.20 --> 1025.52] Turn my striving into works of grace. -[1025.52 --> 1031.52] Breath of God, show Christ in all I do. -[1031.52 --> 1033.52] Breath of God, show Christ in all I do. -[1033.52 --> 1039.00] Holy Spirit, from creation's birth, -[1039.00 --> 1045.20] giving life to all that God has made. -[1045.20 --> 1052.18] Show your power once again on earth. -[1052.18 --> 1058.84] Cause your church to hunger for your ways. -[1058.84 --> 1066.04] Let the fragrance of our prayers arise. -[1066.04 --> 1072.34] Lead us on the road of sacrifice. -[1072.34 --> 1078.28] That in unity the face of Christ -[1078.28 --> 1083.90] may be clear for all the world to see. -[1083.90 --> 1085.90] Let the fragrance of our prayers arise. -[1085.90 --> 1090.90] Let the fragrance of our prayers arise. -[1090.90 --> 1097.90] Lead us on the road of sacrifice. -[1097.90 --> 1104.62] That in unity the face of Christ -[1104.62 --> 1110.90] may be clear for all the world to see. -[1110.90 --> 1117.74] Good morning. -[1118.14 --> 1119.36] Welcome to Kids Corner. -[1119.76 --> 1120.38] Hi kids. -[1120.58 --> 1121.86] My name is Mr. Mike. -[1121.98 --> 1123.90] I think many of you know who I am. -[1124.90 --> 1124.94] Oh. -[1125.76 --> 1126.54] Good morning. -[1126.72 --> 1127.52] We'll go again. -[1127.66 --> 1128.82] We're good at take two today. -[1129.36 --> 1130.50] My name is Mr. Mike. -[1130.56 --> 1131.68] And welcome to Kids Corner. -[1132.68 --> 1135.18] Hey, last week you guys had a visit -[1135.18 --> 1137.62] with Mr. Kevin and Hank the Hound. -[1137.62 --> 1140.86] And we heard all about how the Holy Spirit -[1140.86 --> 1143.52] has come down on God's people -[1143.52 --> 1147.58] and is spreading his gift to all the nations of the world. -[1147.78 --> 1150.16] Well, we're going to keep talking about that a little bit today. -[1150.40 --> 1152.12] But first, before we get to the story -[1152.12 --> 1153.56] and a little bit of a special activity, -[1153.96 --> 1158.08] we are going to work on our memory verse from Isaiah. -[1158.08 --> 1166.42] The Lord your God, who takes hold of your right hand, -[1166.94 --> 1168.38] says to you, -[1168.78 --> 1170.22] Do not fear. -[1170.60 --> 1172.78] I will help you. -[1173.18 --> 1176.38] Isaiah 41 verse 13. -[1180.74 --> 1181.70] Thanks, guys. -[1181.82 --> 1182.44] Good job. -[1182.66 --> 1184.36] I think we're getting pretty good at that verse. -[1184.36 --> 1187.14] Hey, I have a fun activity for you guys -[1187.14 --> 1189.26] before we get into today's story. -[1189.88 --> 1192.08] Now, I know you probably had breakfast. -[1192.30 --> 1193.06] I hope you did. -[1193.58 --> 1194.68] And I'm just wondering, -[1194.80 --> 1197.16] maybe are you feeling a little bit hungry? -[1197.28 --> 1198.44] Maybe you'd like a little snack? -[1198.84 --> 1201.22] Do you need something to get through the rest of the service? -[1201.88 --> 1204.10] Well, I've got some gifts here for you. -[1204.38 --> 1205.86] Well, I'm going to start with this first bag. -[1206.40 --> 1206.92] Here's a gift. -[1207.00 --> 1208.34] Let's see what's in here for you guys. -[1209.80 --> 1210.04] Oh. -[1210.04 --> 1210.36] Oh. -[1211.56 --> 1211.96] Oh. -[1211.96 --> 1215.32] Nice, bright red. -[1215.48 --> 1216.32] What do you think they are? -[1217.22 --> 1217.90] Some tomatoes. -[1218.48 --> 1218.84] Awesome. -[1219.46 --> 1220.08] Well, there you go. -[1220.30 --> 1221.30] There's some awesome tomatoes. -[1221.86 --> 1223.96] You can make some salsa with that. -[1224.20 --> 1226.40] You could slice it up with maybe some salt. -[1226.70 --> 1227.40] That'd be lovely. -[1228.12 --> 1228.90] And then, -[1229.40 --> 1230.86] is that going to be enough food, you think? -[1231.08 --> 1231.84] Do you like tomatoes? -[1233.00 --> 1234.20] That's maybe not quite enough. -[1234.30 --> 1235.10] Hey, I have an idea. -[1235.22 --> 1237.04] How about I trade you? -[1237.74 --> 1238.68] Would you do that? -[1238.68 --> 1240.64] What if I take back the tomatoes? -[1241.48 --> 1243.62] And what if you have this gift? -[1244.70 --> 1245.62] Is that a good idea? -[1245.88 --> 1246.60] Are you in for that? -[1247.20 --> 1248.04] Okay, let's try that. -[1248.30 --> 1249.82] Okay, so I'll take back the tomatoes. -[1250.32 --> 1252.42] And here is this. -[1252.58 --> 1254.06] Do you know what's in here? -[1255.30 --> 1257.36] Are you maybe taking a bit of a chance? -[1257.72 --> 1258.68] Well, let's see what's in here. -[1258.90 --> 1260.96] What gifts have I brought for your snack now? -[1261.40 --> 1261.54] Oh. -[1263.04 --> 1264.34] Whole thing of carrots. -[1265.06 --> 1265.70] What's this? -[1265.70 --> 1267.86] Broccoli. -[1270.26 --> 1270.74] Oh. -[1271.78 --> 1272.02] Huh. -[1272.60 --> 1274.08] Some more tomatoes. -[1274.74 --> 1275.22] Oh, boy. -[1276.56 --> 1277.66] Bunch of oranges. -[1278.74 --> 1279.48] You guys like oranges? -[1281.20 --> 1282.12] And lemon. -[1283.20 --> 1285.66] Well, this is quite a cornucopia, -[1286.04 --> 1286.96] as one might say. -[1287.20 --> 1288.98] That's quite a plate of food, hey? -[1289.62 --> 1290.58] That's quite an upgrade -[1290.58 --> 1292.38] from those two measly tomatoes. -[1292.38 --> 1295.54] I don't know if you love vegetables, -[1295.76 --> 1297.56] but I know your mom and dad are going to be, -[1297.70 --> 1298.94] or whoever's sitting with you right now, -[1299.00 --> 1301.04] is pretty happy that you could have a whole plate -[1301.04 --> 1302.04] of awesome veggies -[1302.04 --> 1304.26] to get you through the day, right? -[1304.34 --> 1305.40] You could make a salad. -[1305.88 --> 1307.30] You could have them with dip. -[1307.72 --> 1309.12] What a lovely meal that would be. -[1310.06 --> 1310.96] Well, hey, guess what? -[1310.96 --> 1313.56] I think I have another gift for you guys. -[1314.06 --> 1316.58] Would you guys be in for yet one more gift? -[1317.74 --> 1318.74] You might be thinking, -[1318.86 --> 1319.18] I don't know, -[1319.22 --> 1320.34] I don't want more vegetables. -[1321.20 --> 1323.42] But let's go for the next gift. -[1323.94 --> 1328.74] What could be in the third potential package? -[1330.40 --> 1331.24] What is it? -[1332.00 --> 1333.26] Did someone scream donuts? -[1333.66 --> 1333.78] Yeah. -[1334.26 --> 1335.96] Well, it's not that kind of sundae. -[1336.68 --> 1337.44] Oh, what's this? -[1337.44 --> 1340.86] Can you eat this? -[1342.64 --> 1343.98] That doesn't taste very good. -[1344.18 --> 1344.82] I shouldn't have done that. -[1345.06 --> 1345.92] Hope I cleaned it good. -[1346.88 --> 1348.84] Oh, what's this? -[1349.26 --> 1350.40] Some containers. -[1352.26 --> 1355.50] And, oh, well, what's in here? -[1356.28 --> 1357.18] Oh, my goodness. -[1357.60 --> 1359.20] A little watering can. -[1359.20 --> 1362.46] And what else? -[1362.60 --> 1366.04] Oh, a package of onion bulbs. -[1366.70 --> 1367.46] Oh, my goodness. -[1368.78 --> 1369.70] Oh, my goodness. -[1369.80 --> 1370.88] There's so much stuff in here. -[1372.40 --> 1375.66] Here's some seeds for some flowers. -[1376.40 --> 1380.54] And more seeds for beets and spinach and lettuces. -[1380.54 --> 1384.40] And, oh, here's some seeds for carrots. -[1385.46 --> 1386.60] And what's this? -[1386.78 --> 1388.76] Oh, a bunch of potatoes. -[1389.04 --> 1391.18] I could probably cut these up and plant them. -[1391.86 --> 1392.44] Oh, my goodness. -[1392.70 --> 1393.78] The table's getting so full. -[1394.08 --> 1395.22] There's only one bag. -[1396.24 --> 1397.22] What's in here? -[1399.34 --> 1400.46] Oaky smokes. -[1400.46 --> 1403.84] We got whole plants coming out of the bag here. -[1404.38 --> 1405.34] Look at this. -[1406.22 --> 1409.22] Well, I think that was pretty smart of you guys to go for the third gift. -[1409.34 --> 1410.94] Because look at this array. -[1411.04 --> 1412.50] What can you do with all this stuff? -[1413.22 --> 1415.68] Maybe you guys do this already with somebody this year. -[1416.08 --> 1418.10] Did you plant yourself a bit of a garden? -[1418.26 --> 1421.30] I think we could get a pretty awesome garden out of all this stuff. -[1421.70 --> 1421.92] Huh? -[1421.92 --> 1425.44] I mean, it's really good to enjoy these snacks up front. -[1425.58 --> 1430.40] But, like, in the long run, we could have this awesome garden to enjoy. -[1431.06 --> 1431.96] Well, that's pretty cool. -[1432.92 --> 1436.70] Well, let's see how this kind of works with today's story. -[1436.76 --> 1438.04] You know, I'll keep this stuff in front of me. -[1438.98 --> 1442.72] And I'm going to read from the book of Acts. -[1443.26 --> 1446.58] And we're going to hear a special story about Peter. -[1447.18 --> 1448.08] Peter and John. -[1448.08 --> 1450.84] So remember, the Holy Spirit has come. -[1451.12 --> 1454.60] And now all the disciples and all of God's followers, Jesus' followers, -[1454.78 --> 1456.82] are busy spreading his good news. -[1457.76 --> 1461.84] So this book, or this story, is from the book of Acts, chapter 3. -[1463.90 --> 1466.00] Peter heals the crippled beggar. -[1467.34 --> 1472.70] One day, Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer. -[1472.70 --> 1480.02] Now, a man crippled from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, -[1480.84 --> 1485.88] where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. -[1486.62 --> 1491.32] When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. -[1493.46 --> 1497.08] Peter looked straight at him, as did John. -[1497.70 --> 1499.50] Then Peter said, look at us. -[1499.50 --> 1505.70] So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them. -[1506.22 --> 1507.44] Maybe a little money or something. -[1508.22 --> 1511.62] Then Peter said, silver or gold, I do not have. -[1512.16 --> 1515.40] But what I can give you, what I have, I give you. -[1515.72 --> 1518.90] In the name of Jesus Christ, walk. -[1518.90 --> 1525.72] Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, -[1526.36 --> 1530.08] and instantly the man's feet and ankles became strong. -[1530.44 --> 1533.50] He jumped to his feet and began to walk. -[1534.52 --> 1539.70] Then he went with them into the temple, walking and jumping and praising God. -[1539.70 --> 1543.12] When all the people saw him walking and praising God, -[1543.34 --> 1548.98] they recognized him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate called Beautiful. -[1549.88 --> 1553.58] And they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened. -[1555.26 --> 1560.94] While the beggar held on to Peter and John, all the people were astonished and came running to the place. -[1561.68 --> 1563.52] When Peter saw this, he said to them, -[1563.52 --> 1565.30] Why does this surprise you? -[1565.96 --> 1571.20] Why do you stare at us as if by our own power we had made this man walk? -[1571.84 --> 1577.20] The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his servant Jesus. -[1578.56 --> 1579.56] I'll skip ahead a little bit. -[1579.68 --> 1586.36] By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. -[1586.36 --> 1592.22] It is Jesus' name and the faith that comes through him that has given this complete healing to him, -[1592.66 --> 1594.40] as you can all see. -[1596.80 --> 1599.30] It's kind of a little bit like this garden, right? -[1600.12 --> 1604.04] Or our garden patch here, but the man just asked for something simple. -[1604.18 --> 1606.30] He just asked for some money. -[1607.14 --> 1609.08] But Peter and John said, -[1609.48 --> 1612.28] We can help you out right now in even a better way. -[1612.78 --> 1615.22] We can give you the ability to walk. -[1615.22 --> 1617.66] So now he can get a job. -[1617.80 --> 1618.96] He can see his family. -[1619.32 --> 1621.84] He can do all kinds of things he could never do before. -[1622.48 --> 1625.34] But even better yet, the man realized this too, -[1625.74 --> 1629.80] and Peter and John made sure to mention that to all the people that were amazed, -[1630.34 --> 1632.60] that there's a bigger investment going on. -[1632.66 --> 1636.36] There's a bigger work going on, and all the glory goes to God in that. -[1636.78 --> 1641.88] There's a full, full abundance for everybody in the long run with God, right? -[1641.94 --> 1643.62] To glorify him in the big picture. -[1643.62 --> 1647.48] So more than just walking, but life eternal that Jesus paid for us. -[1648.28 --> 1648.46] Right? -[1648.56 --> 1649.34] Does that make sense? -[1649.86 --> 1651.20] Yeah, it's a crazy story. -[1651.32 --> 1652.72] It is a cool, cool story. -[1652.98 --> 1653.90] And I like that lesson. -[1654.04 --> 1655.98] We usually think about, oh, wow, like, -[1656.78 --> 1660.70] Jesus empowered Peter and John to help someone walk. -[1661.10 --> 1662.82] But even bigger yet, -[1663.82 --> 1668.52] that man was able to glorify God and give glory to God in a big, big way. -[1668.52 --> 1671.06] So let's think about that this week. -[1671.14 --> 1673.56] Let's think, what are some of the, like, little things? -[1673.64 --> 1676.50] Maybe when we pray to God, we just ask for little things, -[1676.62 --> 1678.34] and we ask for help for this, -[1678.46 --> 1680.18] and we want to get through this in a day, -[1680.30 --> 1682.30] and we want to be friends with so-and-so, -[1682.36 --> 1683.74] and we thank God for our meals. -[1684.14 --> 1686.38] Those are awesome things, and we should keep doing that. -[1686.98 --> 1688.10] But let's also remember, -[1688.24 --> 1692.18] there's a big way that we can glorify God in lots of little ways. -[1693.14 --> 1694.46] Let's pray about that this morning. -[1696.78 --> 1700.06] Heavenly Father, we thank you so much for this fantastic story. -[1700.38 --> 1704.14] We thank you that Peter and John were there at the gate -[1704.14 --> 1707.62] to be with this beggar and to bring you big glory, Lord. -[1708.14 --> 1710.44] So we pray for the little things in our day today -[1710.44 --> 1713.24] where we look to you and you bring us help and healing. -[1713.96 --> 1717.50] And Lord, we also look to the big picture that you're unfolding for us, -[1717.54 --> 1718.98] the big picture of salvation, -[1719.08 --> 1722.14] and the big message you've asked us all to share. -[1723.18 --> 1725.30] We pray for your help in this every day. -[1726.00 --> 1726.80] In your name. Amen. -[1728.14 --> 1730.12] Thanks, guys. We'll see you next week. -[1737.72 --> 1738.46] Good morning. -[1739.44 --> 1740.32] My name is Peter. -[1740.58 --> 1743.46] I'm one of the elders here at Langley Emanuel. -[1744.82 --> 1747.48] Before I get started with the offering, -[1747.48 --> 1750.02] I did want to announce quickly, -[1750.16 --> 1752.26] as you have seen in midweek memo, -[1752.64 --> 1754.44] and you've also seen in the bulletin today -[1754.44 --> 1757.34] that the nominations that council has put forward -[1757.34 --> 1759.64] have been affirmed, which is great. -[1760.18 --> 1763.80] Next week will be the drawing of lots -[1763.80 --> 1769.80] for the replacement of the on council. -[1770.48 --> 1771.48] That may happen. -[1772.24 --> 1774.36] We've already got some plans in place in the current state -[1774.36 --> 1777.28] to see how we're going to film that -[1777.28 --> 1778.92] and put that in the live stream. -[1779.16 --> 1782.34] But as Chris mentioned earlier, -[1782.86 --> 1788.00] if we can meet here in the sanctuary next week, -[1788.10 --> 1790.60] we will do that in the morning service, -[1790.60 --> 1791.92] which will be the live stream service. -[1791.92 --> 1794.90] So I'm hoping and praying for that. -[1797.32 --> 1799.36] As members of Christ's family, -[1799.86 --> 1803.42] we now set a time to give our tithes and our offerings. -[1804.80 --> 1807.44] 1 Timothy 6, 6-8 says, -[1807.68 --> 1810.54] But true faith, with peace of mind, -[1811.58 --> 1812.64] is of great profit. -[1813.56 --> 1815.38] For we come into the world with nothing, -[1816.16 --> 1818.62] and we are not able to take anything out. -[1818.62 --> 1822.54] But if we have food and a roof over us, -[1823.18 --> 1824.14] let that be enough. -[1826.00 --> 1828.02] Tidia's offerings are first for the budget -[1828.02 --> 1830.84] and second for the Ministry to Seafarers. -[1832.12 --> 1834.70] Much of our day-to-day materials that we use -[1834.70 --> 1837.48] travels thousands of miles to reach our hands. -[1838.10 --> 1840.60] Many men and women spend countless days at sea, -[1841.18 --> 1842.92] disconnected from family and friends, -[1843.12 --> 1846.82] to make sure that those items arrive safely to us here -[1846.82 --> 1848.66] in many various ports. -[1849.80 --> 1850.82] Upon arrival at port, -[1851.04 --> 1852.28] these men and women are physically, -[1852.74 --> 1854.32] emotionally, and spiritually drained. -[1855.38 --> 1856.22] It's at this point, -[1856.64 --> 1859.88] the seafarers are warmly greeted by complete strangers. -[1860.84 --> 1863.12] These strangers are the very hospitable people -[1863.12 --> 1865.30] who work at the Ministry to Seafarers. -[1865.30 --> 1869.80] Their mission is to help with the many burdens -[1869.80 --> 1871.48] these seafarers encounter at sea, -[1872.02 --> 1874.90] such as using Wi-Fi to connect to their families back home -[1874.90 --> 1876.82] and restock on food supplies. -[1877.96 --> 1879.96] Receiving the Word of God from many seafarers -[1879.96 --> 1881.66] can be a life-changing experience. -[1882.72 --> 1883.34] At the mission, -[1884.10 --> 1885.06] they cannot do it alone. -[1885.78 --> 1886.50] Please give today -[1886.50 --> 1889.04] and change the life of many at sea. -[1890.20 --> 1893.80] Next week's offering will be for CTE-N. -[1893.80 --> 1895.04] As a reminder, -[1895.50 --> 1896.74] during this difficult season, -[1897.02 --> 1898.76] please refer to the midweek memo -[1898.76 --> 1899.60] or the e-bulletin -[1899.60 --> 1901.32] on the many different ways -[1901.32 --> 1902.70] to give towards today's offerings. -[1903.28 --> 1904.30] Please take time and pray -[1904.30 --> 1906.40] and consider how much you can give -[1906.40 --> 1907.52] towards today's offerings. -[1910.18 --> 1912.78] Let's take time now to come together -[1912.78 --> 1914.40] in our church family prayer. -[1915.16 --> 1915.94] Let's pray. -[1915.94 --> 1923.48] It is good to praise you, Lord. -[1924.48 --> 1927.50] It is good to gaze upon your majesty, -[1927.90 --> 1930.18] to proclaim your love in the morning -[1930.18 --> 1931.98] and your faithfulness at night. -[1932.46 --> 1935.54] It is good to worship and praise you. -[1936.50 --> 1937.56] Father, to praise you -[1937.56 --> 1940.60] is our privilege and our design. -[1940.60 --> 1943.74] Let our worship honor your name -[1943.74 --> 1945.14] from wherever we are. -[1945.78 --> 1946.70] While we worship apart, -[1947.14 --> 1949.04] let our collective voices come together -[1949.04 --> 1950.98] as a pleasing aroma to you. -[1953.06 --> 1955.78] We continue to feel both worried -[1955.78 --> 1958.46] and encouraged about the pandemic situation. -[1958.68 --> 1961.60] There's a drastic reduction in daily cases recently, -[1962.36 --> 1963.44] which gives us some hope. -[1964.14 --> 1966.04] But there are also still many -[1966.04 --> 1967.64] who suffer or are affected. -[1967.64 --> 1971.40] We think of schools and workplaces -[1971.40 --> 1972.92] that have been closed temporarily. -[1973.80 --> 1975.62] Many have had surgeries delayed. -[1976.46 --> 1978.32] There are people in our medical system -[1978.32 --> 1980.16] that are working long hours -[1980.16 --> 1981.40] and seeing the effects -[1981.40 --> 1983.34] of this disease on many people. -[1984.42 --> 1985.30] We pray for healing -[1985.30 --> 1986.86] and relief from suffering, Lord. -[1987.94 --> 1990.00] We are also optimistically hopeful -[1990.00 --> 1991.04] for what we will hear -[1991.04 --> 1992.44] from health officials on Tuesday -[1992.44 --> 1995.18] as we long to be able to come -[1995.18 --> 1996.84] to worship together again. -[1997.64 --> 2001.36] Lord, of course, COVID-19 -[2001.36 --> 2002.70] isn't the only thing going on. -[2002.96 --> 2004.90] I mean, even though it gets -[2004.90 --> 2006.02] almost all of our attention, -[2006.88 --> 2007.84] there are many who suffer -[2007.84 --> 2008.82] for different reasons. -[2009.68 --> 2010.96] May they not be forgotten, -[2011.86 --> 2013.50] whether they be from ailments, -[2014.28 --> 2015.26] broken relationships, -[2015.72 --> 2016.52] substance abuse, -[2016.60 --> 2018.20] or any number of things. -[2018.78 --> 2020.06] Grant that we may help each other -[2020.06 --> 2021.40] in any way that we can, -[2021.76 --> 2023.62] including laying our brothers and sisters -[2023.62 --> 2024.36] at your feet, -[2024.36 --> 2027.26] asking for your powerful hand -[2027.26 --> 2028.18] to help them -[2028.18 --> 2029.68] through their current situations. -[2032.32 --> 2033.28] Lord, we are thankful -[2033.28 --> 2034.42] for those who have let their names -[2034.42 --> 2035.30] stand to serve -[2035.30 --> 2037.32] in the offices of elder and deacon. -[2038.06 --> 2039.04] Your church has affirmed -[2039.04 --> 2040.46] the names we will draw lots from. -[2041.00 --> 2041.92] May the lots cast -[2041.92 --> 2043.30] be reflective of your will -[2043.30 --> 2044.82] for who will be servants -[2044.82 --> 2045.86] of your church next. -[2046.64 --> 2047.74] We are also thankful -[2047.74 --> 2048.86] for those who have served -[2048.86 --> 2050.58] and are now ending their term -[2050.58 --> 2051.86] and thankful for their -[2051.86 --> 2052.68] faithful service. -[2054.28 --> 2055.06] Lord, this morning, -[2055.14 --> 2055.98] be with Pastor Chris -[2055.98 --> 2057.54] as he delivers the message -[2057.54 --> 2058.86] from your word to us today. -[2060.26 --> 2061.56] May we not only hear -[2061.56 --> 2062.70] what we are saying, Lord, -[2062.80 --> 2063.96] but also act -[2063.96 --> 2065.48] and do what we can -[2065.48 --> 2066.08] in accordance -[2066.08 --> 2067.76] with how you've asked us -[2067.76 --> 2068.56] to respond. -[2070.24 --> 2071.04] Thank you, Father. -[2071.04 --> 2072.56] Amen. -[2078.86 --> 2085.34] This morning, -[2085.46 --> 2087.14] we're going to come together -[2087.14 --> 2090.10] in reading God's word. -[2090.90 --> 2091.80] We're going to read -[2091.80 --> 2094.32] from Acts 2, -[2094.54 --> 2097.46] verse 1 through 13. -[2097.60 --> 2098.52] So I'm going to invite you -[2098.52 --> 2099.08] and encourage you -[2099.08 --> 2100.64] to open that up -[2100.64 --> 2103.98] and to head there together. -[2108.86 --> 2115.98] from Acts 2, -[2116.08 --> 2116.84] starting at verse 1. -[2120.10 --> 2122.02] When the day of Pentecost came, -[2122.68 --> 2123.54] they were all together -[2123.54 --> 2124.42] in one place. -[2125.50 --> 2125.94] Suddenly, -[2126.16 --> 2127.08] a sound like -[2127.08 --> 2127.74] the blowing -[2127.74 --> 2128.78] of a violent wind -[2128.78 --> 2129.64] came from heaven -[2129.64 --> 2130.96] and filled the whole house -[2130.96 --> 2131.68] where they were sitting. -[2133.14 --> 2134.02] They saw -[2134.02 --> 2134.76] what seemed -[2134.76 --> 2136.14] to be tongues of fire -[2136.14 --> 2136.90] that separated -[2136.90 --> 2137.84] and came to rest -[2137.84 --> 2138.62] on each of them. -[2139.56 --> 2140.54] And all of them -[2140.54 --> 2141.00] were filled -[2141.00 --> 2141.92] with the Holy Spirit -[2141.92 --> 2142.98] and began to speak -[2142.98 --> 2143.66] in other tongues -[2143.66 --> 2144.34] as the Spirit -[2144.34 --> 2144.96] enabled them. -[2146.66 --> 2147.14] Now, -[2148.00 --> 2148.90] there were staying -[2148.90 --> 2149.60] in Jerusalem, -[2150.30 --> 2151.50] God-fearing Jews -[2151.50 --> 2152.34] from every nation -[2152.34 --> 2152.84] under heaven. -[2153.76 --> 2154.54] And when they heard -[2154.54 --> 2155.24] this sound, -[2155.36 --> 2156.56] a crowd came together -[2156.56 --> 2157.48] in bewilderment -[2157.48 --> 2158.60] because each one -[2158.60 --> 2159.90] heard their own language -[2159.90 --> 2160.62] being spoken. -[2162.24 --> 2163.10] Utterly amazed, -[2163.22 --> 2163.78] they asked, -[2164.66 --> 2165.62] Aren't all these -[2165.62 --> 2166.50] who are speaking -[2166.50 --> 2167.22] Galileans? -[2167.22 --> 2168.88] Then, -[2168.96 --> 2169.56] how is it -[2169.56 --> 2170.38] that each of us -[2170.38 --> 2170.98] hears them -[2170.98 --> 2172.68] in our native language? -[2174.24 --> 2174.80] Parthians, -[2175.36 --> 2175.84] Medes, -[2176.24 --> 2176.98] and Elamites, -[2177.58 --> 2178.44] residents of -[2178.44 --> 2179.26] Mesopotamia, -[2179.40 --> 2179.86] Judea, -[2179.96 --> 2180.74] and Cappadocia, -[2181.30 --> 2181.76] Pontus, -[2181.86 --> 2182.28] and Asia, -[2183.32 --> 2183.68] Phrygia, -[2183.90 --> 2184.60] and Pamphylia, -[2184.72 --> 2185.00] Egypt, -[2185.16 --> 2186.00] and the parts of Libya -[2186.00 --> 2186.76] near Cyrene, -[2187.16 --> 2188.06] visitors from Rome, -[2188.18 --> 2188.70] both Jews -[2188.70 --> 2189.44] and converts -[2189.44 --> 2190.10] to Judaism, -[2191.10 --> 2191.52] Cretans, -[2191.52 --> 2192.38] and Arabs. -[2192.92 --> 2193.58] We hear them -[2193.58 --> 2194.56] declaring the wonders -[2194.56 --> 2195.06] of God -[2195.06 --> 2196.94] in our own tongues. -[2198.52 --> 2200.34] Amazed and perplexed, -[2200.50 --> 2201.62] they asked one another, -[2202.14 --> 2205.10] What does this mean? -[2207.48 --> 2208.72] Some, however, -[2209.72 --> 2210.60] made fun of them -[2210.60 --> 2211.36] and said, -[2211.96 --> 2212.70] They have had -[2212.70 --> 2214.16] too much wine. -[2215.36 --> 2216.24] This is the word -[2216.24 --> 2216.68] of the Lord. -[2223.00 --> 2224.00] I'll never forget, -[2224.96 --> 2226.22] when I was a kid -[2226.22 --> 2227.30] in elementary school, -[2227.44 --> 2228.18] in grade four -[2228.18 --> 2228.82] or five, -[2229.90 --> 2230.28] school, -[2230.44 --> 2231.72] we had a principal. -[2231.92 --> 2232.42] Her name was -[2232.42 --> 2233.66] Corrie Bootsma. -[2234.62 --> 2235.82] And prior to being -[2235.82 --> 2236.48] a principal -[2236.48 --> 2238.70] in her earlier life, -[2238.82 --> 2239.92] she and her husband -[2239.92 --> 2241.12] were missionaries -[2241.12 --> 2242.60] in the Philippines. -[2242.60 --> 2244.56] And one day, -[2244.66 --> 2245.50] she stood in front -[2245.50 --> 2246.02] of our school -[2246.02 --> 2246.98] and told her -[2246.98 --> 2248.64] sort of calling story -[2248.64 --> 2249.96] as a missionary. -[2250.98 --> 2252.90] And she shared with us, -[2253.06 --> 2254.44] and I remember this -[2254.44 --> 2255.14] so clearly, -[2255.26 --> 2256.06] it's one of those memories -[2256.06 --> 2257.12] that just seems -[2257.12 --> 2257.78] to get planted -[2257.78 --> 2259.10] deep into who you are. -[2259.46 --> 2260.18] She stood in front -[2260.18 --> 2260.72] of the school -[2260.72 --> 2261.54] and she told us -[2261.54 --> 2262.70] that when she -[2262.70 --> 2263.68] and her husband Ted -[2263.68 --> 2265.12] were trying to figure out -[2265.12 --> 2266.42] what God was calling -[2266.42 --> 2267.14] them to do, -[2267.98 --> 2269.82] she had learned -[2269.82 --> 2270.92] about these people -[2270.92 --> 2271.74] in the Philippines -[2271.74 --> 2273.14] and her heart -[2273.14 --> 2273.94] began to wonder, -[2274.14 --> 2275.26] is God calling me there? -[2275.58 --> 2276.48] Is God calling us -[2276.48 --> 2278.38] to serve these people? -[2279.22 --> 2279.92] And one day, -[2280.04 --> 2280.68] she says, -[2280.94 --> 2281.82] she told the story -[2281.82 --> 2283.00] of reading a book, -[2283.14 --> 2284.48] sitting in her living room, -[2284.84 --> 2285.62] just reading a book, -[2285.66 --> 2286.82] and she turned the page -[2286.82 --> 2288.04] and all of a sudden, -[2288.30 --> 2289.82] words jumped out -[2289.82 --> 2290.74] of the page -[2290.74 --> 2291.38] that said, -[2291.78 --> 2293.24] go to the Philippines. -[2295.42 --> 2297.42] She stopped -[2297.42 --> 2299.88] and had a moment -[2299.88 --> 2300.34] where she said -[2300.34 --> 2301.42] what is going on -[2301.42 --> 2302.54] and she came back -[2302.54 --> 2303.10] to herself -[2303.10 --> 2303.62] in that moment -[2303.62 --> 2304.44] and she looked -[2304.44 --> 2305.06] at the words -[2305.06 --> 2305.62] on the page -[2305.62 --> 2306.32] and nowhere -[2306.32 --> 2307.64] on the page, -[2308.18 --> 2308.50] anywhere, -[2309.24 --> 2310.10] was the phrase -[2310.10 --> 2311.22] go to the Philippines -[2311.22 --> 2312.48] or even the word -[2312.48 --> 2313.04] Philippines -[2313.04 --> 2313.62] or go. -[2314.38 --> 2314.92] I'm sure two -[2314.92 --> 2315.72] was probably there. -[2318.12 --> 2319.10] The Spirit -[2319.10 --> 2321.64] spoke to her -[2321.64 --> 2324.18] in a visible -[2324.18 --> 2326.46] and real way -[2326.46 --> 2327.58] and so she -[2327.58 --> 2328.34] and her husband, -[2328.52 --> 2328.70] Ted, -[2328.78 --> 2329.28] in obedience -[2329.28 --> 2330.54] to that call, -[2330.74 --> 2331.80] went and served -[2331.80 --> 2332.52] for years -[2332.52 --> 2334.12] in the Philippines. -[2335.44 --> 2335.84] The Spirit -[2335.84 --> 2337.48] is alive -[2337.48 --> 2338.42] and active -[2338.42 --> 2339.42] and speaking -[2339.42 --> 2341.22] to the church. -[2343.26 --> 2344.54] A couple weeks ago, -[2344.66 --> 2345.80] I was chatting -[2345.80 --> 2346.38] with someone -[2346.38 --> 2348.00] and they were sharing -[2348.00 --> 2348.58] a story -[2348.58 --> 2350.34] of how God -[2350.34 --> 2352.04] had miraculously -[2352.04 --> 2353.24] healed them -[2353.24 --> 2354.16] of something -[2354.16 --> 2354.84] that was happening -[2354.84 --> 2355.84] in their life, -[2355.92 --> 2356.34] something that -[2356.34 --> 2357.36] they were in the midst -[2357.36 --> 2358.74] of seeing doctors -[2358.74 --> 2359.74] and having -[2359.74 --> 2363.84] cat scans for -[2363.84 --> 2365.24] and they went -[2365.24 --> 2366.40] for a follow-up -[2366.40 --> 2367.22] cat scan -[2367.22 --> 2368.22] and the technician -[2368.22 --> 2368.56] said, -[2368.66 --> 2369.08] hold on, -[2369.74 --> 2370.56] something's not right -[2370.56 --> 2372.34] and then they called -[2372.34 --> 2372.88] in the doctor -[2372.88 --> 2373.46] and the doctor -[2373.46 --> 2373.74] said, -[2373.92 --> 2375.04] something's not right. -[2375.04 --> 2376.96] the thing -[2376.96 --> 2377.76] that they had seen -[2377.76 --> 2379.22] was gone. -[2381.14 --> 2381.62] Miraculously -[2381.62 --> 2382.74] gone. -[2384.24 --> 2385.28] A few months ago, -[2385.38 --> 2386.66] I heard a similar story. -[2386.78 --> 2387.72] Somebody who was -[2387.72 --> 2388.16] dealing with -[2388.16 --> 2389.30] some other health -[2389.30 --> 2389.92] concerns -[2389.92 --> 2390.80] had been seeing -[2390.80 --> 2391.22] the doctor -[2391.22 --> 2391.86] for years -[2391.86 --> 2392.96] trying to get this -[2392.96 --> 2393.58] and then they went -[2393.58 --> 2395.04] to another doctor -[2395.04 --> 2396.18] to do another test -[2396.18 --> 2397.06] and the doctor said, -[2397.84 --> 2398.90] you're healthy. -[2400.04 --> 2400.98] There's nothing -[2400.98 --> 2402.16] wrong. -[2402.62 --> 2403.18] The Spirit -[2403.18 --> 2404.62] is alive -[2404.62 --> 2405.92] and active -[2405.92 --> 2407.24] and working -[2407.24 --> 2408.60] in the world. -[2409.04 --> 2410.24] That is what -[2410.24 --> 2411.32] Pentecost -[2411.32 --> 2412.54] is about. -[2413.86 --> 2414.76] This morning -[2414.76 --> 2416.38] as we come together -[2416.38 --> 2418.12] to worship our God, -[2418.22 --> 2419.18] I will hope -[2419.18 --> 2419.76] and pray -[2419.76 --> 2421.14] that in this time -[2421.14 --> 2422.38] we will see -[2422.38 --> 2423.80] that the Spirit -[2423.80 --> 2425.60] is still -[2425.60 --> 2426.76] working -[2426.76 --> 2430.08] and that Pentecost -[2430.08 --> 2431.12] is -[2431.12 --> 2433.38] an opportunity -[2433.38 --> 2434.42] and a marvel -[2434.42 --> 2435.10] for us -[2435.10 --> 2435.82] as a church -[2435.82 --> 2436.94] as we see -[2436.94 --> 2438.00] God at work -[2438.00 --> 2439.34] through law -[2439.34 --> 2440.62] and life -[2440.62 --> 2442.14] and harvest. -[2444.00 --> 2444.30] Now, -[2444.80 --> 2446.86] I'm also well aware -[2446.86 --> 2447.36] of the fact -[2447.36 --> 2449.36] that for most of us -[2449.36 --> 2450.86] participating -[2450.86 --> 2451.72] in worship -[2451.72 --> 2452.32] this morning, -[2452.44 --> 2452.84] when we hear -[2452.84 --> 2453.76] the word Pentecost, -[2453.88 --> 2454.86] we immediately -[2454.86 --> 2456.92] think of Pentecost -[2456.92 --> 2458.24] as a Christian -[2458.24 --> 2459.60] holiday, -[2459.82 --> 2460.48] as a Christian -[2460.48 --> 2461.74] liturgical act -[2461.74 --> 2463.04] and service -[2463.04 --> 2464.90] because that's -[2464.90 --> 2466.16] our experience. -[2467.34 --> 2467.80] And yet, -[2468.26 --> 2468.82] did you notice -[2468.82 --> 2469.80] what Luke -[2469.80 --> 2470.94] said? -[2472.18 --> 2472.90] Luke writes, -[2473.36 --> 2474.02] when the day -[2474.02 --> 2475.06] of Pentecost -[2475.06 --> 2476.04] came, -[2476.98 --> 2477.88] or down in verse 5, -[2477.96 --> 2478.68] now they were staying -[2478.68 --> 2479.54] in Jerusalem, -[2479.70 --> 2480.52] God-fearing Jews -[2480.52 --> 2481.34] from every nation -[2481.34 --> 2482.42] under heaven. -[2484.52 --> 2485.20] Pentecost -[2485.20 --> 2486.66] was already happening -[2486.66 --> 2487.96] when they were -[2487.96 --> 2488.62] in Jerusalem -[2488.62 --> 2489.38] because you see, -[2489.50 --> 2490.04] Pentecost -[2490.04 --> 2491.94] is a Jewish -[2491.94 --> 2492.66] festival. -[2493.76 --> 2494.34] Pentecost -[2494.34 --> 2495.36] is the Greek -[2495.36 --> 2496.02] translation -[2496.02 --> 2496.76] of the word -[2496.76 --> 2497.34] 50, -[2497.58 --> 2498.56] which would refer -[2498.56 --> 2499.54] in the Jewish -[2499.54 --> 2499.98] calendar -[2499.98 --> 2501.36] to the festival -[2501.36 --> 2502.14] of weeks -[2502.14 --> 2503.34] or Shavuot. -[2503.96 --> 2504.16] Right? -[2504.20 --> 2504.74] It's a festival -[2504.74 --> 2505.70] of harvest. -[2505.96 --> 2506.48] It's a festival -[2506.48 --> 2507.34] that takes place -[2507.34 --> 2508.74] 50 days -[2508.74 --> 2510.12] after the Passover. -[2510.84 --> 2511.54] So the Passover, -[2511.88 --> 2512.44] you may remember, -[2512.60 --> 2513.82] is the festival -[2513.82 --> 2514.68] that they celebrate -[2514.68 --> 2515.36] and it marks -[2515.36 --> 2517.48] the exodus -[2517.48 --> 2518.62] out of Egypt -[2518.62 --> 2520.14] for the Jewish -[2520.14 --> 2521.08] people. -[2521.48 --> 2522.36] And as that story -[2522.36 --> 2522.84] goes, -[2522.94 --> 2523.30] the people -[2523.30 --> 2525.16] leave Egypt, -[2525.40 --> 2526.20] they cross -[2526.20 --> 2526.96] the Red Sea -[2526.96 --> 2527.64] where the armies -[2527.64 --> 2528.08] of Pharaoh -[2528.08 --> 2528.82] are destroyed, -[2528.94 --> 2529.58] and then they find -[2529.58 --> 2530.06] themselves -[2530.06 --> 2530.98] in the region -[2530.98 --> 2531.64] of Sinai. -[2531.74 --> 2532.46] And there, -[2532.76 --> 2533.76] they receive -[2533.76 --> 2534.44] from God -[2534.44 --> 2535.38] the Ten Commandments. -[2535.44 --> 2535.96] They receive -[2535.96 --> 2536.54] from God -[2536.54 --> 2537.12] the law. -[2537.54 --> 2537.66] Right? -[2537.78 --> 2538.70] Moses went -[2538.70 --> 2539.58] up the mountain -[2539.58 --> 2542.60] and received -[2542.60 --> 2543.40] the law -[2543.40 --> 2544.34] in an encounter -[2544.34 --> 2544.86] with God. -[2545.64 --> 2546.34] The festival -[2546.34 --> 2547.24] of weeks -[2547.24 --> 2548.72] coming 50 days -[2548.72 --> 2549.68] after the Passover -[2549.68 --> 2550.78] marks both -[2550.78 --> 2551.82] the receiving -[2551.82 --> 2552.54] of the law -[2552.54 --> 2555.76] and the harvest, -[2556.50 --> 2557.36] the first fruits -[2557.36 --> 2558.50] of the harvest. -[2558.62 --> 2559.16] Now the festival -[2559.16 --> 2560.12] of weeks -[2560.12 --> 2560.94] is also -[2560.94 --> 2562.60] one of the -[2562.60 --> 2564.90] pilgrimage festivals. -[2565.18 --> 2565.78] There's three -[2565.78 --> 2567.02] pilgrimage festivals -[2567.02 --> 2568.10] in Jewish -[2568.10 --> 2569.40] practice. -[2569.58 --> 2571.54] that has -[2571.54 --> 2571.92] in it -[2571.92 --> 2572.14] there, -[2572.40 --> 2573.10] in Deuteronomy, -[2573.30 --> 2573.78] they're instructed -[2573.78 --> 2575.08] and again, -[2576.24 --> 2578.26] they're instructed -[2578.26 --> 2578.66] in Exodus -[2578.66 --> 2579.36] and in Deuteronomy -[2579.36 --> 2580.02] to travel -[2580.02 --> 2581.24] to Jerusalem -[2581.24 --> 2582.68] for these festivals -[2582.68 --> 2584.02] so that all men -[2584.02 --> 2584.78] in particular -[2584.78 --> 2585.62] of age -[2585.62 --> 2586.26] might come -[2586.26 --> 2587.14] and worship -[2587.14 --> 2587.52] God -[2587.52 --> 2588.48] at the temple. -[2589.08 --> 2589.56] Pentecost -[2589.56 --> 2590.76] is one of those -[2590.76 --> 2591.60] festivals -[2591.60 --> 2593.60] that brings -[2593.60 --> 2594.10] people -[2594.10 --> 2595.60] to Jerusalem. -[2595.76 --> 2596.06] That's why -[2596.06 --> 2596.48] we have -[2596.48 --> 2598.74] staying in -[2598.74 --> 2599.12] Jerusalem -[2599.12 --> 2599.86] God-fearing -[2599.86 --> 2600.30] Jews -[2600.30 --> 2600.94] from every -[2600.94 --> 2601.42] nation -[2601.42 --> 2603.44] under heaven. -[2604.38 --> 2604.78] Now just so -[2604.78 --> 2605.72] we can see -[2605.72 --> 2606.24] that and make -[2606.24 --> 2606.56] it clear, -[2606.64 --> 2607.00] we have a little -[2607.00 --> 2607.54] bit of a map -[2607.54 --> 2608.02] that I want -[2608.02 --> 2608.64] to show you -[2608.64 --> 2609.72] just so you -[2609.72 --> 2610.12] can see -[2610.12 --> 2611.30] the regions -[2611.30 --> 2612.92] from around -[2612.92 --> 2613.42] the world -[2613.42 --> 2614.78] that bring, -[2615.28 --> 2615.78] that come -[2615.78 --> 2616.86] together here. -[2617.72 --> 2618.24] And so -[2618.24 --> 2619.24] you have -[2619.24 --> 2620.70] Parthians -[2620.70 --> 2621.72] and Medians -[2621.72 --> 2622.58] and Elamites, -[2622.78 --> 2623.20] you have -[2623.20 --> 2624.48] people from -[2624.48 --> 2625.30] Mesopotamia -[2625.30 --> 2625.82] and Judea -[2625.82 --> 2626.58] and Cappadocia, -[2626.76 --> 2627.20] Pontius -[2627.20 --> 2627.72] and Asia, -[2628.28 --> 2628.82] from Phrygia -[2628.82 --> 2629.62] and Pamphylia, -[2629.76 --> 2630.18] Egypt, -[2630.60 --> 2631.34] and parts -[2631.34 --> 2631.76] of Libya -[2631.76 --> 2632.40] and Cyrene, -[2632.50 --> 2632.80] so North -[2632.80 --> 2633.30] Africa, -[2633.60 --> 2634.06] and you -[2634.06 --> 2634.50] have visitors -[2634.50 --> 2635.22] from as far -[2635.22 --> 2635.86] away as -[2635.86 --> 2636.56] Rome and -[2636.56 --> 2637.16] Cretans -[2637.16 --> 2637.94] and Arabs, -[2638.38 --> 2638.66] right? -[2639.12 --> 2639.94] The whole -[2639.94 --> 2640.42] world, -[2641.02 --> 2641.44] or at least -[2641.44 --> 2641.78] the whole -[2641.78 --> 2642.30] empire, -[2642.46 --> 2642.80] because there -[2642.80 --> 2643.46] is other -[2643.46 --> 2643.88] parts of the -[2643.88 --> 2644.18] world that -[2644.18 --> 2644.48] are known -[2644.48 --> 2644.82] at this -[2644.82 --> 2645.06] time, -[2645.34 --> 2645.66] the whole -[2645.66 --> 2645.96] Roman -[2645.96 --> 2646.44] empire, -[2646.84 --> 2647.44] Jews from -[2647.44 --> 2647.90] around there, -[2647.96 --> 2648.22] the whole -[2648.22 --> 2648.88] diaspora, -[2649.06 --> 2649.28] place, -[2649.72 --> 2650.68] have come -[2650.68 --> 2652.34] to Jerusalem. -[2654.10 --> 2654.62] So the -[2654.62 --> 2655.16] festival of -[2655.16 --> 2655.80] Pentecost -[2655.80 --> 2657.50] is about -[2657.50 --> 2658.24] law and -[2658.24 --> 2659.24] life lived -[2659.24 --> 2660.28] in response -[2660.28 --> 2660.82] to the -[2660.82 --> 2661.10] law. -[2661.52 --> 2661.88] The festival -[2661.88 --> 2662.58] of Pentecost -[2662.58 --> 2663.16] is about -[2663.16 --> 2664.48] harvest -[2664.48 --> 2666.20] and it's -[2666.20 --> 2666.78] about people -[2666.78 --> 2668.60] coming to -[2668.60 --> 2669.04] Jerusalem. -[2670.64 --> 2671.56] And for -[2671.56 --> 2672.40] us as -[2672.40 --> 2673.44] Christians to -[2673.44 --> 2674.62] better understand -[2674.62 --> 2675.96] the role of -[2675.96 --> 2676.92] Pentecost in -[2676.92 --> 2677.92] our life and -[2677.92 --> 2678.18] faith, -[2678.32 --> 2678.92] it's really -[2678.92 --> 2679.46] important for -[2679.46 --> 2680.50] us to hang -[2680.50 --> 2681.80] on to the -[2681.80 --> 2682.78] Jewish roots -[2682.78 --> 2684.32] of this -[2684.32 --> 2685.68] festival. -[2686.98 --> 2687.98] And it's in -[2687.98 --> 2689.08] looking at the -[2689.08 --> 2689.98] roots of this -[2689.98 --> 2691.26] festival that we -[2691.26 --> 2692.98] will see how -[2692.98 --> 2694.00] we can understand -[2694.00 --> 2695.28] more accurately -[2695.28 --> 2696.68] Pentecost. -[2697.34 --> 2698.20] Because I -[2698.20 --> 2698.52] think, -[2698.78 --> 2699.64] I'm probably -[2699.64 --> 2700.40] not mistaken -[2700.40 --> 2700.92] in this, -[2701.00 --> 2701.84] but for many -[2701.84 --> 2702.62] of us, -[2704.28 --> 2704.98] Pentecost -[2704.98 --> 2705.64] and the -[2705.64 --> 2706.38] gift of -[2706.38 --> 2706.94] the Spirit -[2706.94 --> 2707.96] and the -[2707.96 --> 2708.48] gifts of -[2708.48 --> 2708.94] the Spirit -[2708.94 --> 2710.94] often just -[2710.94 --> 2712.18] comes back -[2712.18 --> 2712.74] to this -[2712.74 --> 2713.46] idea of -[2713.46 --> 2714.34] the charismatic -[2714.34 --> 2714.94] gifts. -[2715.06 --> 2715.32] They're called -[2715.32 --> 2715.94] the charismatic -[2715.94 --> 2716.38] gifts, -[2716.46 --> 2716.74] the gifts -[2716.74 --> 2717.38] of tongues, -[2717.94 --> 2718.46] the gifts -[2718.46 --> 2719.12] of prophecy, -[2719.64 --> 2720.02] maybe the -[2720.02 --> 2720.46] gifts of -[2720.46 --> 2720.76] healing. -[2720.90 --> 2721.20] And so when -[2721.20 --> 2721.76] we think of -[2721.76 --> 2722.52] Pentecost and -[2722.52 --> 2722.96] the role of -[2722.96 --> 2723.20] Spirit, -[2723.26 --> 2723.64] we think of -[2723.64 --> 2724.72] these big -[2724.72 --> 2725.44] picture, -[2725.78 --> 2726.70] amazing, -[2727.02 --> 2727.46] charismatic -[2727.46 --> 2728.58] gifts. -[2728.58 --> 2729.58] Pentecost -[2729.58 --> 2729.86] and while -[2729.86 --> 2730.38] those things -[2730.38 --> 2731.28] are good -[2731.28 --> 2732.10] and true -[2732.10 --> 2732.50] and I'm -[2732.50 --> 2733.20] not a -[2733.20 --> 2733.48] strict -[2733.48 --> 2734.26] cessationist -[2734.26 --> 2734.90] in that I -[2734.90 --> 2735.70] believe that -[2735.70 --> 2736.00] the Spirit -[2736.00 --> 2736.72] continues to -[2736.72 --> 2737.14] do that -[2737.14 --> 2737.48] and to -[2737.48 --> 2738.90] provide for -[2738.90 --> 2739.50] opportunities -[2739.50 --> 2740.14] like that -[2740.14 --> 2740.58] for the -[2740.58 --> 2741.02] glory of -[2741.02 --> 2741.46] God so -[2741.46 --> 2741.76] that the -[2741.76 --> 2741.96] church -[2741.96 --> 2742.30] might be -[2742.30 --> 2742.58] edified, -[2742.72 --> 2742.94] so that -[2742.94 --> 2743.36] the witness -[2743.36 --> 2743.80] of Jesus -[2743.80 --> 2744.18] Christ -[2744.18 --> 2744.82] might be -[2744.82 --> 2745.48] confirmed, -[2746.10 --> 2746.46] but -[2746.46 --> 2747.42] Pentecost -[2747.42 --> 2748.66] is in -[2748.66 --> 2749.24] the first -[2749.24 --> 2749.90] place -[2749.90 --> 2752.02] about -[2752.02 --> 2752.36] something -[2752.36 --> 2752.70] else. -[2755.08 --> 2755.70] Now Pentecost -[2755.70 --> 2756.24] in the -[2756.24 --> 2757.70] Jewish -[2757.70 --> 2758.52] tradition -[2758.52 --> 2759.06] as we -[2759.06 --> 2760.22] have seen -[2760.22 --> 2761.02] is connected -[2761.02 --> 2761.48] to the -[2761.48 --> 2762.40] giving of -[2762.40 --> 2762.80] the law. -[2763.88 --> 2764.30] And the -[2764.30 --> 2765.20] law is -[2765.20 --> 2766.00] given -[2766.00 --> 2767.60] originally -[2767.60 --> 2768.56] so that -[2768.56 --> 2769.16] the people -[2769.16 --> 2769.66] of Israel -[2769.66 --> 2770.46] might know -[2770.46 --> 2771.04] how to -[2771.04 --> 2771.78] live in -[2771.78 --> 2772.42] response -[2772.42 --> 2773.40] to a -[2773.40 --> 2773.68] gracious -[2773.68 --> 2774.08] God -[2774.08 --> 2774.34] who's -[2774.34 --> 2774.64] called -[2774.64 --> 2774.90] them -[2774.90 --> 2775.52] and chosen -[2775.52 --> 2775.84] them -[2775.84 --> 2776.74] and drawn -[2776.74 --> 2777.24] them to -[2777.24 --> 2777.72] himself. -[2777.88 --> 2778.30] The law -[2778.30 --> 2779.22] is given -[2779.22 --> 2779.78] so that -[2779.78 --> 2780.72] in -[2780.72 --> 2781.48] relationship -[2781.48 --> 2782.16] to God -[2782.16 --> 2782.72] the people -[2782.72 --> 2783.80] might have -[2783.80 --> 2784.56] life. -[2785.70 --> 2786.38] But -[2786.38 --> 2786.92] eventually -[2786.92 --> 2788.60] what happens -[2788.60 --> 2789.66] is that -[2789.66 --> 2790.80] the law -[2790.80 --> 2791.64] becomes -[2791.64 --> 2793.40] not a -[2793.40 --> 2794.10] means of -[2794.10 --> 2794.90] experiencing -[2794.90 --> 2795.78] life, -[2795.96 --> 2796.22] but a -[2796.22 --> 2797.44] means of -[2797.44 --> 2798.48] fencing -[2798.48 --> 2799.18] in -[2799.18 --> 2800.10] people, -[2800.54 --> 2800.92] a means -[2800.92 --> 2801.70] of dividing -[2801.70 --> 2803.22] people one -[2803.22 --> 2803.86] from the -[2803.86 --> 2804.04] other, -[2804.14 --> 2804.66] a means of -[2804.66 --> 2805.94] exclusion and -[2805.94 --> 2806.60] pushing people -[2806.60 --> 2806.96] away. -[2809.24 --> 2810.46] The law -[2810.46 --> 2811.88] becomes -[2811.88 --> 2813.14] an opportunity -[2813.14 --> 2814.64] to say -[2814.64 --> 2815.52] not you, -[2815.70 --> 2817.16] but you. -[2818.04 --> 2818.30] And in -[2818.30 --> 2818.62] some sense -[2818.62 --> 2819.34] we get -[2819.34 --> 2819.70] that, -[2819.78 --> 2819.94] right? -[2819.98 --> 2820.18] Because -[2820.18 --> 2821.52] we know -[2821.52 --> 2822.44] that rules -[2822.44 --> 2823.34] in and of -[2823.34 --> 2823.58] themselves -[2823.58 --> 2824.08] are good -[2824.08 --> 2824.58] things, -[2824.70 --> 2824.80] right? -[2824.90 --> 2825.16] Rules -[2825.16 --> 2825.98] are given -[2825.98 --> 2826.36] so that -[2826.36 --> 2826.62] we might -[2826.62 --> 2827.36] be safe. -[2827.80 --> 2828.00] Rules -[2828.00 --> 2828.38] are given -[2828.38 --> 2828.70] so that -[2828.70 --> 2828.98] we might -[2828.98 --> 2829.34] have -[2829.34 --> 2829.84] opportunity -[2829.84 --> 2831.24] to flourish -[2831.24 --> 2831.96] in whatever -[2831.96 --> 2832.64] place we -[2832.64 --> 2833.44] find ourselves. -[2833.90 --> 2834.38] But what -[2834.38 --> 2835.48] often happens -[2835.48 --> 2836.28] with rules -[2836.28 --> 2836.76] is that -[2836.76 --> 2837.46] they become -[2837.46 --> 2838.18] elevated -[2838.18 --> 2838.88] to -[2838.88 --> 2839.90] the -[2839.90 --> 2841.34] perpetuation -[2841.34 --> 2842.14] of only -[2842.14 --> 2842.70] the rules -[2842.70 --> 2843.20] themselves. -[2843.20 --> 2843.30] rules. -[2844.02 --> 2844.46] The rule -[2844.46 --> 2844.82] becomes -[2844.82 --> 2845.04] more -[2845.04 --> 2845.48] important -[2845.48 --> 2846.08] than the -[2846.08 --> 2846.64] life it -[2846.64 --> 2847.28] is intended -[2847.28 --> 2848.54] to provide. -[2849.56 --> 2849.96] Rules -[2849.96 --> 2850.50] become, -[2850.80 --> 2851.18] instead of -[2851.18 --> 2852.32] a fence -[2852.32 --> 2852.94] to keep -[2852.94 --> 2853.42] out the -[2853.42 --> 2853.80] bad, -[2853.90 --> 2854.30] they become -[2854.30 --> 2855.04] a wall -[2855.04 --> 2856.04] to keep -[2856.04 --> 2856.86] people trapped. -[2856.86 --> 2859.28] that's not -[2859.28 --> 2859.68] what God -[2859.68 --> 2860.32] had intended, -[2861.48 --> 2863.06] but that's -[2863.06 --> 2863.48] what we -[2863.48 --> 2864.20] see -[2864.20 --> 2865.20] happen. -[2865.90 --> 2866.22] It is -[2866.22 --> 2867.14] human nature -[2867.14 --> 2868.50] to default -[2868.50 --> 2869.12] to -[2869.12 --> 2870.52] elevating -[2870.52 --> 2871.16] rules -[2871.16 --> 2871.90] into something -[2871.90 --> 2872.68] more than -[2872.68 --> 2873.62] they were -[2873.62 --> 2874.32] intended to -[2874.32 --> 2874.54] be. -[2874.64 --> 2874.86] We call -[2874.86 --> 2875.70] that legalism -[2875.70 --> 2876.90] in the -[2876.90 --> 2877.46] Christian -[2877.46 --> 2877.90] tradition, -[2877.90 --> 2879.08] and we so -[2879.08 --> 2879.98] easily define -[2879.98 --> 2880.60] ourselves -[2880.60 --> 2881.62] by that -[2881.62 --> 2882.42] and in -[2882.42 --> 2882.90] that way. -[2885.50 --> 2886.18] Pentecost -[2886.18 --> 2887.78] as an -[2887.78 --> 2888.22] opportunity -[2888.22 --> 2889.28] to remember -[2889.28 --> 2890.46] the law -[2890.46 --> 2890.88] and the -[2890.88 --> 2891.40] life that -[2891.40 --> 2892.44] comes to -[2892.44 --> 2892.66] it, -[2892.72 --> 2893.48] now with -[2893.48 --> 2894.26] the spirit -[2894.26 --> 2894.76] for the -[2894.76 --> 2895.26] Christian -[2895.26 --> 2896.16] becomes -[2896.16 --> 2896.82] something -[2896.82 --> 2897.80] different, -[2897.90 --> 2898.68] yet built -[2898.68 --> 2899.42] on that -[2899.42 --> 2900.36] reality. -[2901.40 --> 2901.80] We have -[2901.80 --> 2902.20] a passage -[2902.20 --> 2902.76] from -[2902.76 --> 2904.18] 2 Corinthians, -[2904.34 --> 2904.66] I believe -[2904.66 --> 2905.04] you'll see -[2905.04 --> 2906.24] that on -[2906.24 --> 2906.72] the screen. -[2907.82 --> 2907.96] And -[2907.96 --> 2908.74] there, -[2909.46 --> 2909.78] in that -[2909.78 --> 2910.18] passage, -[2910.30 --> 2910.86] Paul is -[2910.86 --> 2911.68] writing, -[2911.86 --> 2912.06] and he -[2912.06 --> 2912.42] says, -[2912.90 --> 2913.20] now, -[2913.74 --> 2914.20] if the -[2914.20 --> 2914.60] ministry -[2914.60 --> 2915.40] that brought -[2915.40 --> 2915.88] death -[2915.88 --> 2915.94] death, -[2916.52 --> 2917.12] which was -[2917.12 --> 2918.04] engraved -[2918.04 --> 2918.52] in letters -[2918.52 --> 2919.24] on stone, -[2919.44 --> 2920.06] came with -[2920.06 --> 2920.70] glory so -[2920.70 --> 2921.04] that the -[2921.04 --> 2921.42] Israelites -[2921.42 --> 2922.22] could not -[2922.22 --> 2922.86] look steadily -[2922.86 --> 2923.26] at the -[2923.26 --> 2923.72] face of -[2923.72 --> 2923.98] Moses -[2923.98 --> 2924.56] because of -[2924.56 --> 2925.02] its glory, -[2925.48 --> 2926.24] transitory -[2926.24 --> 2926.72] though it -[2926.72 --> 2927.00] was, -[2927.30 --> 2927.84] will not -[2927.84 --> 2928.48] the ministry -[2928.48 --> 2928.96] of the -[2928.96 --> 2929.48] spirit be -[2929.48 --> 2930.18] even more -[2930.18 --> 2930.78] glorious? -[2930.96 --> 2931.46] If the -[2931.46 --> 2931.84] ministry -[2931.84 --> 2932.36] that brought -[2932.36 --> 2933.12] condemnation -[2933.12 --> 2933.80] was glorious, -[2934.06 --> 2934.70] how much -[2934.70 --> 2935.48] more glorious -[2935.48 --> 2935.92] is the -[2935.92 --> 2936.34] ministry -[2936.34 --> 2937.34] that brings -[2937.34 --> 2938.12] righteousness? -[2939.56 --> 2940.30] For what -[2940.30 --> 2941.02] was glorious -[2941.02 --> 2942.46] has no -[2942.46 --> 2943.90] glory now -[2943.90 --> 2944.82] in comparison -[2944.82 --> 2945.34] with the -[2945.34 --> 2946.20] surpassing -[2946.20 --> 2947.00] glory? -[2948.50 --> 2948.72] And if -[2948.72 --> 2950.08] what was -[2950.08 --> 2950.74] transitory -[2950.74 --> 2951.24] came with -[2951.24 --> 2951.58] glory, -[2951.74 --> 2952.28] how much -[2952.28 --> 2952.68] greater -[2952.68 --> 2953.60] is the -[2953.60 --> 2954.28] glory of -[2954.28 --> 2955.52] that which -[2955.52 --> 2956.64] lasts? -[2957.78 --> 2958.26] See, -[2958.30 --> 2958.78] what Paul is -[2958.78 --> 2959.38] doing here -[2959.38 --> 2959.86] in this -[2959.86 --> 2960.24] text, -[2960.40 --> 2961.50] he is -[2961.50 --> 2963.08] picking up -[2963.08 --> 2963.78] on this -[2963.78 --> 2964.94] idea that -[2964.94 --> 2966.14] the idea -[2966.14 --> 2966.94] of Pentecost, -[2967.04 --> 2967.14] right? -[2967.18 --> 2967.66] That the -[2967.66 --> 2968.40] law came -[2968.40 --> 2969.00] with Moses -[2969.00 --> 2969.50] and was -[2969.50 --> 2969.86] meant to -[2969.86 --> 2970.30] define, -[2970.46 --> 2970.70] but it -[2970.70 --> 2972.26] was not -[2972.26 --> 2972.70] enough, -[2972.76 --> 2973.20] it was -[2973.20 --> 2973.80] inadequate -[2973.80 --> 2974.68] because we -[2974.68 --> 2975.12] had made -[2975.12 --> 2975.66] it into -[2975.66 --> 2976.48] something that -[2976.48 --> 2976.96] it wasn't -[2976.96 --> 2977.70] ever intended -[2977.70 --> 2978.26] to be, -[2978.38 --> 2978.66] and in -[2978.66 --> 2978.88] fact, -[2978.98 --> 2979.42] in so -[2979.42 --> 2980.38] doing, -[2980.78 --> 2981.80] the law -[2981.80 --> 2983.74] becomes for -[2983.74 --> 2984.40] us and in -[2984.40 --> 2984.88] our practice, -[2985.02 --> 2985.46] and Paul -[2985.46 --> 2985.98] picks this -[2985.98 --> 2987.00] up in the -[2987.00 --> 2987.58] book of -[2987.58 --> 2987.96] Romans, -[2988.82 --> 2988.98] right, -[2989.04 --> 2990.00] that the -[2990.00 --> 2990.86] law becomes -[2990.86 --> 2991.42] the means -[2991.42 --> 2991.90] by which -[2991.90 --> 2993.22] we understand -[2993.22 --> 2995.10] our sin. -[2996.14 --> 2996.92] Keep that -[2996.92 --> 2997.82] Romans passage -[2997.82 --> 2998.22] up there. -[2999.18 --> 2999.56] The law -[2999.56 --> 3000.36] becomes for -[3000.36 --> 3001.86] us the -[3001.86 --> 3002.50] means of -[3002.50 --> 3003.16] convicting -[3003.16 --> 3004.56] us of -[3004.56 --> 3004.88] sin. -[3007.04 --> 3007.52] The law -[3007.52 --> 3009.72] comes to -[3009.72 --> 3010.36] show us -[3010.36 --> 3010.90] how we -[3010.90 --> 3012.52] have fallen -[3012.52 --> 3013.94] short of -[3013.94 --> 3014.84] God's design -[3014.84 --> 3015.56] and intent -[3015.56 --> 3016.48] purpose, -[3017.42 --> 3018.46] but what the -[3018.46 --> 3018.96] law was -[3018.96 --> 3019.98] powerless to -[3019.98 --> 3020.66] do, Paul -[3020.66 --> 3021.34] says in -[3021.34 --> 3022.32] Romans 8, -[3022.68 --> 3023.32] to do in -[3023.32 --> 3023.68] that it was -[3023.68 --> 3024.36] weakened by -[3024.36 --> 3025.12] sinful nature, -[3025.32 --> 3026.28] God did by -[3026.28 --> 3027.02] sending his -[3027.02 --> 3027.90] own son in -[3027.90 --> 3028.58] the likeness of -[3028.58 --> 3029.90] sinful man to -[3029.90 --> 3030.58] be a sin -[3030.58 --> 3031.12] offering, -[3031.12 --> 3032.10] and so he -[3032.10 --> 3033.20] condemned sin -[3033.20 --> 3033.88] in sinful -[3033.88 --> 3034.46] man in -[3034.46 --> 3034.94] order that -[3034.94 --> 3035.42] the righteous -[3035.42 --> 3036.34] requirements of -[3036.34 --> 3036.74] the law -[3036.74 --> 3037.56] might be -[3037.56 --> 3038.76] fully met -[3038.76 --> 3040.62] in us. -[3043.40 --> 3044.20] Life -[3044.20 --> 3045.98] now is -[3045.98 --> 3047.28] defined not -[3047.28 --> 3048.82] by the -[3048.82 --> 3049.58] law, but -[3049.58 --> 3050.38] by what -[3050.38 --> 3051.10] Paul elsewhere -[3051.10 --> 3051.90] in Romans -[3051.90 --> 3052.64] calls the -[3052.64 --> 3053.62] spirit, or -[3053.62 --> 3054.42] the law of -[3054.42 --> 3055.40] the spirit. -[3056.58 --> 3057.20] Right, life, -[3057.34 --> 3058.18] our identity -[3058.18 --> 3059.34] as Christians -[3059.34 --> 3060.56] is no longer -[3060.56 --> 3061.26] bound up in -[3061.26 --> 3061.94] this rule or -[3061.94 --> 3062.56] that rule, but -[3062.56 --> 3063.46] instead in -[3063.46 --> 3064.02] freedom. -[3064.28 --> 3064.76] It is for -[3064.76 --> 3065.82] freedom that -[3065.82 --> 3066.66] Christ has set -[3066.66 --> 3067.16] you free. -[3067.90 --> 3068.48] And so when we -[3068.48 --> 3069.18] look at -[3069.18 --> 3070.36] Pentecost, we -[3070.36 --> 3071.46] remember here -[3071.46 --> 3072.24] and now and -[3072.24 --> 3073.46] see maybe for -[3073.46 --> 3074.06] the very first -[3074.06 --> 3074.86] time that it -[3074.86 --> 3075.26] is our -[3075.26 --> 3077.08] identities that -[3077.08 --> 3078.74] are changed. -[3079.74 --> 3080.88] It is who we -[3080.88 --> 3081.44] are in -[3081.44 --> 3082.38] relationship to -[3082.38 --> 3085.62] Jesus that is -[3085.62 --> 3086.20] transformed. -[3091.44 --> 3092.42] Maybe you -[3092.42 --> 3093.88] haven't heard -[3093.88 --> 3094.44] it before, -[3094.62 --> 3095.10] maybe you -[3095.10 --> 3095.94] need to hear -[3095.94 --> 3097.00] it right now, -[3097.10 --> 3097.52] maybe you -[3097.52 --> 3098.00] need to -[3098.00 --> 3098.82] remember, -[3100.42 --> 3101.72] but you -[3101.72 --> 3103.54] are a -[3103.54 --> 3103.86] new -[3103.86 --> 3105.08] creation. -[3106.32 --> 3107.44] By grace, -[3107.88 --> 3108.60] through faith, -[3109.06 --> 3109.74] you have -[3109.74 --> 3111.06] been transformed. -[3112.06 --> 3112.60] Your heart -[3112.60 --> 3113.54] of stone has -[3113.54 --> 3114.70] been transformed -[3114.70 --> 3115.50] by the Spirit -[3115.50 --> 3116.26] to a heart -[3116.26 --> 3116.98] of flesh, -[3117.30 --> 3118.32] now finally, -[3118.56 --> 3118.86] fully, -[3119.10 --> 3119.40] freely, -[3119.56 --> 3120.48] alive in -[3120.48 --> 3121.94] Jesus Christ. -[3122.94 --> 3123.48] Who you -[3123.48 --> 3124.88] are is -[3124.88 --> 3126.78] now changed. -[3128.32 --> 3129.04] No longer -[3129.04 --> 3129.80] are we slaves -[3129.80 --> 3130.34] to sin, -[3130.46 --> 3130.92] but instead -[3130.92 --> 3131.74] in John 15, -[3131.82 --> 3132.46] 15, we -[3132.46 --> 3133.54] are friends -[3133.54 --> 3134.88] of Jesus. -[3136.58 --> 3137.40] No longer -[3137.40 --> 3138.60] are we by -[3138.60 --> 3139.40] nature objects -[3139.40 --> 3139.92] of wrath, -[3140.02 --> 3140.60] instead we -[3140.60 --> 3141.80] are loved -[3141.80 --> 3143.12] of God. -[3143.12 --> 3144.38] in fact, -[3144.52 --> 3145.74] 1 John 3 -[3145.74 --> 3147.10] says that -[3147.10 --> 3148.16] we are -[3148.16 --> 3149.28] lavishly -[3149.28 --> 3150.04] loved -[3150.04 --> 3150.88] children -[3150.88 --> 3151.92] of the -[3151.92 --> 3152.26] Father. -[3153.82 --> 3154.54] That is -[3154.54 --> 3154.94] who you -[3154.94 --> 3155.22] are. -[3155.88 --> 3156.62] That is -[3156.62 --> 3157.72] Pentecostal -[3157.72 --> 3158.40] purpose, -[3158.40 --> 3158.86] that you -[3158.86 --> 3159.58] would understand -[3159.58 --> 3160.80] that identity -[3160.80 --> 3161.64] in Jesus -[3161.64 --> 3161.96] Christ, -[3162.04 --> 3162.62] that by grace -[3162.62 --> 3163.10] through faith -[3163.10 --> 3163.88] you are sons -[3163.88 --> 3164.80] and daughters -[3164.80 --> 3165.48] of the -[3165.48 --> 3165.84] Father, -[3166.18 --> 3166.64] heirs of -[3166.64 --> 3167.24] God and -[3167.24 --> 3167.92] co-heirs -[3167.92 --> 3168.94] with Christ. -[3169.14 --> 3169.56] If we -[3169.56 --> 3170.42] take anything -[3170.42 --> 3170.96] out of -[3170.96 --> 3171.58] Pentecost, -[3171.58 --> 3172.20] it doesn't -[3172.20 --> 3172.64] need to -[3172.64 --> 3173.54] be tongues, -[3173.70 --> 3173.96] it doesn't -[3173.96 --> 3174.20] need to -[3174.20 --> 3175.06] be prophecies, -[3175.14 --> 3175.34] it doesn't -[3175.34 --> 3175.54] need to -[3175.54 --> 3176.10] be gifts -[3176.10 --> 3176.54] of healing, -[3176.72 --> 3177.32] it must -[3177.32 --> 3177.90] be that -[3177.90 --> 3178.92] you are -[3178.92 --> 3179.62] children -[3179.62 --> 3180.72] of God -[3180.72 --> 3181.70] by grace -[3181.70 --> 3182.66] through faith. -[3183.78 --> 3184.60] That's all -[3184.60 --> 3185.20] that matters. -[3187.22 --> 3188.00] That's who -[3188.00 --> 3188.48] you are. -[3189.96 --> 3191.32] That's who -[3191.32 --> 3191.80] God has -[3191.80 --> 3192.48] recreated -[3192.48 --> 3192.92] you -[3192.92 --> 3194.42] to be. -[3197.06 --> 3197.74] That's -[3197.74 --> 3199.30] Pentecostal -[3199.30 --> 3200.80] purpose. -[3203.08 --> 3203.80] And that -[3203.80 --> 3204.24] purpose -[3204.24 --> 3206.10] has a -[3206.10 --> 3206.90] direction -[3206.90 --> 3207.94] to it. -[3208.44 --> 3209.02] That new -[3209.02 --> 3210.18] life identity -[3210.18 --> 3210.92] has a -[3210.92 --> 3212.10] power that -[3212.10 --> 3212.86] is infused -[3212.86 --> 3213.64] into it -[3213.64 --> 3214.26] so that -[3214.26 --> 3214.70] you may -[3214.70 --> 3215.60] go somewhere, -[3215.78 --> 3216.06] so that -[3216.06 --> 3216.36] you may -[3216.36 --> 3217.20] accomplish -[3217.20 --> 3218.32] something. -[3219.30 --> 3219.52] Now, -[3220.08 --> 3220.84] the beginning -[3220.84 --> 3221.62] of the story, -[3221.92 --> 3222.14] right, -[3222.24 --> 3223.20] we have the -[3223.20 --> 3224.12] disciples all -[3224.12 --> 3224.86] together in -[3224.86 --> 3226.00] one place -[3226.00 --> 3226.94] in Jerusalem -[3226.94 --> 3227.50] and they are -[3227.50 --> 3228.60] here in -[3228.60 --> 3229.02] Jerusalem, -[3229.14 --> 3229.56] in this -[3229.56 --> 3230.12] one place -[3230.12 --> 3230.80] because of -[3230.80 --> 3231.20] what Jesus -[3231.20 --> 3231.76] said to -[3231.76 --> 3232.00] them. -[3232.14 --> 3232.26] Do you -[3232.26 --> 3232.62] remember a -[3232.62 --> 3233.00] couple weeks -[3233.00 --> 3233.48] ago we -[3233.48 --> 3233.80] looked at -[3233.80 --> 3234.32] the Ascension -[3234.32 --> 3234.96] story from -[3234.96 --> 3235.48] Acts chapter -[3235.48 --> 3235.80] 1? -[3236.94 --> 3237.56] Jesus told -[3237.56 --> 3239.10] them to -[3239.10 --> 3240.94] go to -[3240.94 --> 3241.82] Jerusalem -[3241.82 --> 3243.98] and to -[3243.98 --> 3244.38] wait -[3244.38 --> 3245.94] because you -[3245.94 --> 3246.48] will receive -[3246.48 --> 3247.50] power when -[3247.50 --> 3247.96] the Holy -[3247.96 --> 3248.78] Spirit comes -[3248.78 --> 3249.72] on you and -[3249.72 --> 3250.34] you will be -[3250.34 --> 3251.04] my witnesses -[3251.04 --> 3251.86] in Jerusalem -[3251.86 --> 3252.84] and in all -[3252.84 --> 3253.56] Judea and -[3253.56 --> 3254.30] Samaria and -[3254.30 --> 3255.04] to the ends -[3255.04 --> 3256.08] of the earth. -[3256.08 --> 3258.20] Jesus has -[3258.20 --> 3258.98] said to -[3258.98 --> 3259.24] them when -[3259.24 --> 3259.56] the Holy -[3259.56 --> 3260.16] Spirit comes -[3260.16 --> 3260.66] you will -[3260.66 --> 3261.20] be my -[3261.20 --> 3261.98] witnesses -[3261.98 --> 3262.40] and that -[3262.40 --> 3262.80] word -[3262.80 --> 3263.58] witnesses -[3263.58 --> 3264.46] is a -[3264.46 --> 3265.06] beautiful -[3265.06 --> 3265.86] word. -[3266.00 --> 3266.30] It's actually -[3266.30 --> 3266.84] the word -[3266.84 --> 3267.30] in Greek -[3267.30 --> 3267.60] that we -[3267.60 --> 3268.32] get the -[3268.32 --> 3268.52] word -[3268.52 --> 3268.96] martyr -[3268.96 --> 3269.58] from -[3269.58 --> 3271.08] and so -[3271.08 --> 3271.78] sometimes -[3271.78 --> 3272.18] when we -[3272.18 --> 3272.60] hear the -[3272.60 --> 3272.76] word -[3272.76 --> 3273.08] witnesses -[3273.08 --> 3273.40] and we -[3273.40 --> 3273.68] think of -[3273.68 --> 3273.94] martyr -[3273.94 --> 3274.38] we know -[3274.38 --> 3274.70] that there -[3274.70 --> 3275.08] are people -[3275.08 --> 3275.88] who lived -[3275.88 --> 3276.72] and died -[3276.72 --> 3277.20] as a -[3277.20 --> 3277.60] testimony -[3277.60 --> 3278.28] of faith -[3278.28 --> 3278.96] but it's -[3278.96 --> 3279.38] actually -[3279.38 --> 3279.74] in its -[3279.74 --> 3280.12] original -[3280.12 --> 3280.78] usage -[3280.78 --> 3281.46] a legal -[3281.46 --> 3281.88] term. -[3281.88 --> 3283.82] It is a -[3283.82 --> 3284.32] term of -[3284.32 --> 3285.10] someone who's -[3285.10 --> 3286.06] standing before -[3286.06 --> 3286.62] a judge -[3286.62 --> 3287.28] called as -[3287.28 --> 3287.86] a witness -[3287.86 --> 3288.92] to give -[3288.92 --> 3289.56] testimony -[3289.56 --> 3290.52] about -[3290.52 --> 3291.10] someone -[3291.10 --> 3291.42] or -[3291.42 --> 3291.90] something. -[3294.40 --> 3295.14] And as -[3295.14 --> 3295.48] we think -[3295.48 --> 3295.98] about our -[3295.98 --> 3296.78] Pentecostal -[3296.78 --> 3297.62] purpose -[3297.62 --> 3298.62] as we -[3298.62 --> 3299.02] think about -[3299.02 --> 3299.28] what it -[3299.28 --> 3299.72] means to -[3299.72 --> 3300.46] be a -[3300.46 --> 3300.92] witness -[3300.92 --> 3304.42] with as -[3304.42 --> 3304.74] much -[3304.74 --> 3306.32] pastoral -[3306.32 --> 3306.96] sensitivity -[3306.96 --> 3308.10] perhaps that -[3308.10 --> 3308.58] I can -[3308.58 --> 3309.60] muster in -[3309.60 --> 3310.18] this moment -[3310.18 --> 3311.52] let me -[3311.52 --> 3312.00] say that -[3312.00 --> 3312.78] sometimes -[3312.78 --> 3314.82] we -[3314.82 --> 3317.70] misunderstand -[3317.70 --> 3318.98] or we -[3318.98 --> 3319.78] sell ourselves -[3319.78 --> 3320.18] short -[3320.18 --> 3321.28] on the -[3321.28 --> 3321.90] purpose of -[3321.90 --> 3322.12] what it -[3322.12 --> 3322.54] means to -[3322.54 --> 3323.40] be a -[3323.40 --> 3323.78] witness. -[3324.82 --> 3325.42] Sometimes -[3325.42 --> 3326.34] we've -[3326.34 --> 3326.70] heard that -[3326.70 --> 3327.44] line from -[3327.44 --> 3328.48] St. Francis -[3328.48 --> 3329.12] of Assisi -[3329.12 --> 3329.80] that says -[3329.80 --> 3330.56] always preach -[3330.56 --> 3331.08] the gospel -[3331.08 --> 3331.54] and if -[3331.54 --> 3332.12] necessary -[3332.12 --> 3333.16] use words. -[3334.04 --> 3334.36] And then we -[3334.36 --> 3335.12] practice things -[3335.12 --> 3336.34] like relational -[3336.34 --> 3337.32] evangelism or -[3337.32 --> 3338.58] lifestyle evangelism -[3338.58 --> 3339.06] and don't get me -[3339.06 --> 3339.56] wrong those are -[3339.56 --> 3340.00] good -[3340.00 --> 3341.16] good things. -[3341.30 --> 3341.62] We need to -[3341.62 --> 3342.52] live our -[3342.52 --> 3343.16] lives in such -[3343.16 --> 3343.50] a way that -[3343.50 --> 3344.10] they are a -[3344.10 --> 3345.22] testimony of -[3345.22 --> 3345.68] who Jesus -[3345.68 --> 3346.42] Christ is. -[3346.80 --> 3347.30] But if you -[3347.30 --> 3347.68] are a -[3347.68 --> 3348.18] witness -[3348.18 --> 3349.24] standing in -[3349.24 --> 3349.52] front of -[3349.52 --> 3350.10] a judge -[3350.10 --> 3350.88] called to -[3350.88 --> 3351.34] speak on -[3351.34 --> 3351.78] someone's -[3351.78 --> 3352.28] behalf -[3352.28 --> 3353.52] you don't -[3353.52 --> 3354.14] say well -[3354.14 --> 3354.84] follow me -[3354.84 --> 3355.46] judge and -[3355.46 --> 3355.96] let me show -[3355.96 --> 3356.30] you the -[3356.30 --> 3356.74] truth of -[3356.74 --> 3357.08] what this -[3357.08 --> 3357.54] person is -[3357.54 --> 3357.78] saying. -[3358.54 --> 3359.50] You speak -[3359.50 --> 3360.26] words. -[3361.28 --> 3362.20] You tell -[3362.20 --> 3362.96] words. -[3363.10 --> 3363.78] You tell -[3363.78 --> 3364.38] the story. -[3364.56 --> 3365.22] You preach -[3365.22 --> 3365.78] the gospel -[3365.78 --> 3366.82] like Paul's -[3366.82 --> 3367.50] charge to -[3367.50 --> 3368.26] Timothy to -[3368.26 --> 3369.14] preach the -[3369.14 --> 3369.66] gospel to -[3369.66 --> 3370.28] always be -[3370.28 --> 3370.96] prepared in -[3370.96 --> 3371.70] season and -[3371.70 --> 3372.26] out of season -[3372.26 --> 3372.88] to correct -[3372.88 --> 3373.52] and to -[3373.52 --> 3374.08] rebuke. -[3375.08 --> 3375.90] Our calling -[3375.90 --> 3376.40] as Christians -[3376.40 --> 3377.10] is to live -[3377.10 --> 3377.60] such good -[3377.60 --> 3378.06] lives among -[3378.06 --> 3378.46] the pagans -[3378.46 --> 3378.76] that though -[3378.76 --> 3379.22] they accuse -[3379.22 --> 3379.64] us of doing -[3379.64 --> 3380.34] wrong they -[3380.34 --> 3380.76] will see -[3380.76 --> 3381.36] God on the -[3381.36 --> 3381.68] day he -[3381.68 --> 3382.16] visits and -[3382.16 --> 3382.98] glorify him. -[3383.28 --> 3384.06] Yes and -[3384.06 --> 3384.52] amen. -[3384.52 --> 3384.62] men. -[3388.12 --> 3389.22] But unless the -[3389.22 --> 3389.58] word is -[3389.58 --> 3391.58] preached how -[3391.58 --> 3391.88] will they -[3391.88 --> 3392.26] believe? -[3394.02 --> 3394.86] Unless the -[3394.86 --> 3395.74] message is -[3395.74 --> 3397.90] proclaimed how -[3397.90 --> 3398.76] will they know -[3398.76 --> 3399.72] who we are -[3399.72 --> 3400.26] witnessing -[3400.26 --> 3401.48] about? -[3402.90 --> 3404.38] The deep -[3404.38 --> 3405.78] reality here is -[3405.78 --> 3406.54] that people are -[3406.54 --> 3407.46] not saved by -[3407.46 --> 3408.28] your example. -[3410.14 --> 3410.94] People are -[3410.94 --> 3412.00] saved by the -[3412.00 --> 3413.34] gospel preached -[3413.34 --> 3414.60] and believed. -[3415.60 --> 3416.94] That is our -[3416.94 --> 3418.38] Pentecostal -[3418.38 --> 3419.32] purpose to -[3419.32 --> 3420.76] go out into -[3420.76 --> 3421.88] all the world -[3421.88 --> 3422.84] and preach the -[3422.84 --> 3423.40] good news. -[3423.58 --> 3424.98] The harvest is -[3424.98 --> 3426.06] plentiful Jesus -[3426.06 --> 3426.92] said but the -[3426.92 --> 3427.50] workers are -[3427.50 --> 3427.78] few. -[3428.16 --> 3429.72] It is amazing -[3429.72 --> 3431.62] that in this -[3431.62 --> 3432.16] feast of -[3432.16 --> 3433.00] Pentecost -[3433.00 --> 3434.52] a feast of -[3434.52 --> 3435.16] harvest -[3435.16 --> 3437.60] we talk about -[3437.60 --> 3438.56] having to -[3438.56 --> 3439.86] preach the -[3439.86 --> 3440.26] gospel. -[3440.96 --> 3441.46] There's this -[3441.46 --> 3442.02] beautiful quote -[3442.02 --> 3442.40] from John -[3442.40 --> 3444.80] Piper that -[3444.80 --> 3445.76] says it is a -[3445.76 --> 3446.56] shame that the -[3446.56 --> 3447.76] term Pentecostal -[3447.76 --> 3448.84] power has for -[3448.84 --> 3449.86] many people become -[3449.86 --> 3451.02] more associated -[3451.02 --> 3451.78] with speaking in -[3451.78 --> 3452.54] tongues than with -[3452.54 --> 3453.26] the harvest of -[3453.26 --> 3454.40] world evangelism. -[3455.06 --> 3456.24] The main point is -[3456.24 --> 3457.46] it is a feast of -[3457.46 --> 3458.28] harvest in -[3458.28 --> 3459.10] Jerusalem and on -[3459.10 --> 3460.30] this very day -[3460.30 --> 3461.70] Jesus pours out -[3461.70 --> 3462.44] his spirit in -[3462.44 --> 3463.50] extraordinary power -[3463.50 --> 3465.30] and 3,000 people -[3465.30 --> 3466.68] are harvested from -[3466.68 --> 3467.32] the kingdom of -[3467.32 --> 3468.88] darkness into the -[3468.88 --> 3469.72] kingdom of God. -[3469.72 --> 3472.58] of course what -[3472.58 --> 3474.46] Piper is referring -[3474.46 --> 3475.26] to is that -[3475.26 --> 3476.38] following this -[3476.38 --> 3477.32] encounter with the -[3477.32 --> 3478.26] Holy Spirit Peter -[3478.26 --> 3479.34] stands up and he -[3479.34 --> 3480.66] preaches to the -[3480.66 --> 3482.58] crowds of those -[3482.58 --> 3484.52] God-fearing people -[3484.52 --> 3485.30] and Jews from -[3485.30 --> 3485.90] around the world. -[3486.04 --> 3486.74] He preaches to -[3486.74 --> 3487.42] them and at the -[3487.42 --> 3488.22] end of his -[3488.22 --> 3490.94] message we read -[3490.94 --> 3492.44] that 3,000 were -[3492.44 --> 3493.30] added to their -[3493.30 --> 3494.58] number that day. -[3496.00 --> 3497.66] Peter got up and -[3497.66 --> 3499.22] he preached the -[3499.22 --> 3499.66] gospel. -[3500.24 --> 3500.90] That's what -[3500.90 --> 3503.10] Pentecost is about. -[3504.14 --> 3505.08] It's not about -[3505.08 --> 3506.16] tongues, it's not -[3506.16 --> 3507.50] about prophecy, it's -[3507.50 --> 3508.54] not about gifts of -[3508.54 --> 3509.50] healing, it is about -[3509.50 --> 3511.44] harvest for the -[3511.44 --> 3512.28] kingdom of God. -[3513.16 --> 3513.64] It is about -[3513.64 --> 3515.20] proclaiming a bold -[3515.20 --> 3516.66] gospel of a risen -[3516.66 --> 3518.00] Savior who has -[3518.00 --> 3520.02] conquered sin and -[3520.02 --> 3520.94] death and is now -[3520.94 --> 3522.62] Lord over all -[3522.62 --> 3524.24] creation, exalted to -[3524.24 --> 3525.44] the right hand of God -[3525.44 --> 3526.06] the Father from -[3526.06 --> 3526.66] where he will come -[3526.66 --> 3527.86] to judge the living -[3527.86 --> 3528.32] and the dead. -[3528.46 --> 3530.12] This is our -[3530.12 --> 3531.06] message. -[3533.50 --> 3534.40] And look, I get -[3534.40 --> 3534.72] it. -[3535.86 --> 3536.84] It can be hard -[3536.84 --> 3538.06] and it can be -[3538.06 --> 3539.50] scary and we -[3539.50 --> 3540.32] can be really -[3540.32 --> 3541.18] worried. -[3541.28 --> 3542.10] What if I don't -[3542.10 --> 3543.02] know the answers to -[3543.02 --> 3543.58] their questions? -[3543.92 --> 3544.66] What if I don't -[3544.66 --> 3545.58] have the right words -[3545.58 --> 3546.10] to say? -[3547.40 --> 3548.34] What if I'm not -[3548.34 --> 3549.34] good enough? -[3549.34 --> 3553.66] Can I just say -[3553.66 --> 3555.94] that's always been -[3555.94 --> 3556.22] true? -[3557.12 --> 3558.08] That's always been -[3558.08 --> 3558.50] the right. -[3558.54 --> 3559.54] Even Peter, okay? -[3559.70 --> 3560.44] If you have your -[3560.44 --> 3561.24] Bible in front of -[3561.24 --> 3562.46] you, look at -[3562.46 --> 3563.12] Acts 2. -[3564.10 --> 3565.10] Acts 2, the end -[3565.10 --> 3566.20] of Peter's sermon -[3566.20 --> 3567.72] in chapter, in -[3567.72 --> 3568.64] verse 39, he -[3568.64 --> 3571.18] says, repent and -[3571.18 --> 3571.90] be baptized every -[3571.90 --> 3572.46] one of you in the -[3572.46 --> 3572.90] name of Jesus -[3572.90 --> 3573.54] Christ for the -[3573.54 --> 3574.16] forgiveness of your -[3574.16 --> 3574.86] sins and you will -[3574.86 --> 3575.70] receive the gift of -[3575.70 --> 3576.30] the Holy Spirit. -[3576.38 --> 3577.52] He says, the promise -[3577.52 --> 3579.14] is for you and your -[3579.14 --> 3580.26] children and for -[3580.26 --> 3581.46] all who are far -[3581.46 --> 3582.84] off, for all whom -[3582.84 --> 3584.04] the Lord our God -[3584.04 --> 3584.90] will call. -[3586.72 --> 3587.36] Now if you know -[3587.36 --> 3589.28] Peter's story, you -[3589.28 --> 3590.42] know that what he -[3590.42 --> 3591.14] at that moment -[3591.14 --> 3592.44] thought was all -[3592.44 --> 3593.10] whom the Lord our -[3593.10 --> 3594.48] God would call were -[3594.48 --> 3595.38] his fellow Jews or -[3595.38 --> 3596.12] God-fearing Jewish -[3596.12 --> 3596.44] people. -[3597.54 --> 3598.60] You know that Peter -[3598.60 --> 3599.42] didn't know the -[3599.42 --> 3600.04] whole story. -[3600.30 --> 3600.98] He didn't know -[3600.98 --> 3601.38] enough. -[3601.48 --> 3601.94] He didn't know -[3601.94 --> 3603.02] everything because -[3603.02 --> 3603.62] in just a few -[3603.62 --> 3604.38] chapters he's going -[3604.38 --> 3604.96] to get a vision -[3604.96 --> 3606.22] from God that says -[3606.22 --> 3607.42] that Gentiles, that -[3607.42 --> 3608.74] is non-believing -[3608.74 --> 3610.32] non-Jewish people -[3610.32 --> 3611.20] are going to be -[3611.20 --> 3612.34] included in this -[3612.34 --> 3613.42] gospel message. -[3613.52 --> 3613.82] They're going to be -[3613.82 --> 3614.78] included in this -[3614.78 --> 3615.98] proclamation call. -[3616.08 --> 3616.44] They're going to be -[3616.44 --> 3618.24] included as heirs of -[3618.24 --> 3619.74] Abraham just like -[3619.74 --> 3620.66] the Jewish people -[3620.66 --> 3620.94] were. -[3622.34 --> 3623.16] And he's going to -[3623.16 --> 3623.88] go and he's going -[3623.88 --> 3624.84] to have an encounter -[3624.84 --> 3626.44] that confirms that. -[3626.80 --> 3628.20] And yet, just a few -[3628.20 --> 3629.36] chapters later, he's -[3629.36 --> 3630.12] going to be rebuked -[3630.12 --> 3631.16] by Paul for still -[3631.16 --> 3632.34] practicing his -[3632.34 --> 3634.30] Jewish-centric way -[3634.30 --> 3634.88] in the world. -[3635.52 --> 3636.56] He doesn't get it. -[3636.56 --> 3637.84] And yet, here, he -[3637.84 --> 3639.58] preaches and 3,000 -[3639.58 --> 3640.70] people are added to -[3640.70 --> 3641.36] their number that -[3641.36 --> 3641.60] day. -[3642.80 --> 3643.86] It's always been true -[3643.86 --> 3644.50] that we don't know -[3644.50 --> 3644.96] everything. -[3645.72 --> 3646.54] It's always been true -[3646.54 --> 3647.28] that we don't have -[3647.28 --> 3648.20] all the answers. -[3648.52 --> 3649.56] And it's always been -[3649.56 --> 3650.88] true that people -[3650.88 --> 3651.76] might look at you -[3651.76 --> 3652.92] and think you are -[3652.92 --> 3653.64] crazy. -[3654.64 --> 3655.62] It's always been true -[3655.62 --> 3656.32] that people might look -[3656.32 --> 3657.14] at you and think you -[3657.14 --> 3658.26] are ridiculous. -[3658.52 --> 3659.64] In 1 Corinthians, -[3659.80 --> 3660.88] Paul says that God -[3660.88 --> 3661.88] chose the foolish -[3661.88 --> 3663.32] things of the world -[3663.32 --> 3664.90] to shame the wise. -[3665.50 --> 3666.56] Gospel-believing, -[3666.80 --> 3668.52] gospel-preaching Christians -[3668.52 --> 3669.60] are going to look like -[3669.60 --> 3670.90] fools to those -[3670.90 --> 3673.42] who don't know God. -[3674.20 --> 3676.64] In fact, in our text, -[3677.18 --> 3678.42] some are amazed and -[3678.42 --> 3679.32] perplexed, and that -[3679.32 --> 3680.72] will be true as you -[3680.72 --> 3681.74] go forward and preach -[3681.74 --> 3682.14] the gospel. -[3682.26 --> 3682.98] There are some who -[3682.98 --> 3684.30] will be amazed. -[3684.42 --> 3685.86] There always are. -[3686.06 --> 3687.12] And there are some -[3687.12 --> 3688.74] who will make fun of -[3688.74 --> 3689.94] them, and they said -[3689.94 --> 3690.92] they've had too much -[3690.92 --> 3691.26] wine. -[3691.26 --> 3695.58] It's always going -[3695.58 --> 3696.32] to be the case -[3696.32 --> 3697.54] that some will believe -[3697.54 --> 3698.82] and some won't. -[3699.50 --> 3700.48] It's always going -[3700.48 --> 3701.12] to be the case -[3701.12 --> 3702.26] that some will ridicule -[3702.26 --> 3704.08] and some will be amazed. -[3704.58 --> 3705.34] It's always going -[3705.34 --> 3705.92] to be the case -[3705.92 --> 3707.04] that you don't know -[3707.04 --> 3707.86] enough. -[3709.76 --> 3711.10] But it's not about you. -[3712.74 --> 3713.72] It's about the -[3713.72 --> 3715.34] Pentecostal purpose -[3715.34 --> 3716.06] of the Spirit -[3716.06 --> 3717.28] come transforming -[3717.28 --> 3718.24] hearts and lives, -[3718.28 --> 3719.00] about you being -[3719.00 --> 3720.32] the vehicle of God -[3720.32 --> 3721.48] and the means by which -[3721.48 --> 3722.72] the gospel is proclaimed -[3722.72 --> 3724.10] so they can be -[3724.10 --> 3725.18] changed. -[3727.02 --> 3727.82] Pentecostal purpose -[3727.82 --> 3729.80] is life lived -[3729.80 --> 3730.98] in the Spirit -[3730.98 --> 3732.60] for a harvest -[3732.60 --> 3733.88] of nations. -[3734.86 --> 3735.80] And Pentecostal -[3735.80 --> 3736.52] Christians -[3736.52 --> 3738.18] must go. -[3739.64 --> 3740.46] In the Jewish -[3740.46 --> 3741.52] roots of this festival, -[3741.86 --> 3742.68] people from around -[3742.68 --> 3743.20] the world -[3743.20 --> 3744.58] came to Jerusalem. -[3745.10 --> 3745.82] In the Christian -[3745.82 --> 3746.32] application -[3746.32 --> 3747.64] of this new -[3747.64 --> 3748.32] reality, -[3748.32 --> 3749.22] Christians -[3749.22 --> 3750.18] must go -[3750.18 --> 3751.38] to the world. -[3753.00 --> 3754.08] And it may be -[3754.08 --> 3754.82] that God -[3754.82 --> 3755.58] is calling you -[3755.58 --> 3756.12] to be -[3756.12 --> 3757.30] a global -[3757.30 --> 3758.08] missionary. -[3758.30 --> 3758.84] It may be -[3758.84 --> 3759.26] that God -[3759.26 --> 3759.90] is calling you -[3759.90 --> 3760.58] to be a -[3760.58 --> 3761.52] vocational -[3761.52 --> 3762.32] full-time -[3762.32 --> 3762.66] missionary -[3762.66 --> 3763.14] somewhere -[3763.14 --> 3764.46] around the world. -[3764.54 --> 3765.06] And if God -[3765.06 --> 3765.90] is calling you -[3765.90 --> 3766.20] in that, -[3766.24 --> 3766.60] if you are -[3766.60 --> 3767.24] wondering that, -[3767.28 --> 3767.58] if you are -[3767.58 --> 3768.86] hearing that voice -[3768.86 --> 3769.48] and not sure -[3769.48 --> 3769.94] what to do, -[3770.14 --> 3771.12] would you call me? -[3771.22 --> 3772.12] Would you reach out -[3772.12 --> 3772.74] to me and I can -[3772.74 --> 3773.34] connect you with -[3773.34 --> 3774.04] different resources -[3774.04 --> 3774.60] and agencies -[3774.60 --> 3775.16] and prayers -[3775.16 --> 3775.78] and discernment -[3775.78 --> 3776.22] and the like -[3776.22 --> 3776.60] and we can -[3776.60 --> 3777.48] figure that out -[3777.48 --> 3777.78] together, -[3777.88 --> 3778.18] that we can -[3778.18 --> 3779.12] celebrate that -[3779.12 --> 3779.78] as a church, -[3779.88 --> 3780.18] that God -[3780.18 --> 3780.78] is calling you -[3780.78 --> 3781.12] in that? -[3783.52 --> 3784.44] But even if God -[3784.44 --> 3785.40] isn't calling you -[3785.40 --> 3786.54] to global -[3786.54 --> 3787.38] missions, -[3788.06 --> 3790.34] God is telling you -[3790.34 --> 3791.44] that you are -[3791.44 --> 3792.02] a missionary. -[3793.78 --> 3794.82] Every single -[3794.82 --> 3796.00] Christian is, -[3796.28 --> 3797.48] by definition, -[3798.92 --> 3799.42] missionary. -[3800.72 --> 3801.22] The Father -[3801.22 --> 3801.90] has sent me, -[3801.98 --> 3802.46] says Jesus, -[3802.62 --> 3803.64] so I am -[3803.64 --> 3804.70] sending you. -[3804.70 --> 3806.38] you are -[3806.38 --> 3807.70] a witness. -[3809.80 --> 3810.22] And so tell -[3810.22 --> 3810.80] the story. -[3811.78 --> 3812.72] Tell the story -[3812.72 --> 3813.18] of God -[3813.18 --> 3813.60] at work -[3813.60 --> 3814.12] in the world -[3814.12 --> 3815.12] in Jesus Christ. -[3815.28 --> 3815.90] Tell the story -[3815.90 --> 3816.36] of Jesus -[3816.36 --> 3817.48] as the true -[3817.48 --> 3817.92] and better, -[3818.00 --> 3819.26] the only fulfillment -[3819.26 --> 3820.16] of all our -[3820.16 --> 3821.12] heart's longings -[3821.12 --> 3821.92] and desire. -[3822.08 --> 3822.98] Tell the story -[3822.98 --> 3823.92] in the power -[3823.92 --> 3825.12] of the Spirit -[3825.12 --> 3825.92] and see -[3825.92 --> 3827.20] Pentecostal purpose -[3827.20 --> 3828.12] come alive -[3828.12 --> 3829.18] in you. -[3829.98 --> 3830.76] Tell the story -[3830.76 --> 3831.28] of how God -[3831.28 --> 3832.48] transformed your life -[3832.48 --> 3833.68] and is transforming -[3833.68 --> 3834.88] your life -[3834.88 --> 3836.28] so that we -[3836.28 --> 3837.12] might live -[3837.12 --> 3838.66] in the law -[3838.66 --> 3839.74] of the Spirit. -[3840.50 --> 3841.16] So that we -[3841.16 --> 3841.90] might live -[3841.90 --> 3842.96] in the Spirit -[3842.96 --> 3843.50] of love. -[3843.72 --> 3844.16] So that we -[3844.16 --> 3845.10] might produce -[3845.10 --> 3846.02] fruit. -[3847.96 --> 3848.82] So that we -[3848.82 --> 3851.16] might see -[3851.16 --> 3851.98] the church -[3851.98 --> 3853.26] of Jesus Christ -[3853.26 --> 3854.24] grown. -[3856.24 --> 3857.40] You have been -[3857.40 --> 3858.36] called by God. -[3858.36 --> 3860.28] You have been -[3860.28 --> 3861.50] recreated -[3861.50 --> 3862.50] by the power -[3862.50 --> 3863.28] of the Spirit -[3863.28 --> 3863.82] transformed -[3863.82 --> 3864.86] from one degree -[3864.86 --> 3865.42] of glory -[3865.42 --> 3865.98] to another -[3865.98 --> 3866.90] and now -[3866.90 --> 3868.24] we together -[3868.24 --> 3869.38] are sent. -[3871.06 --> 3871.84] Sent -[3871.84 --> 3872.74] full of -[3872.74 --> 3873.94] Pentecostal purpose -[3873.94 --> 3875.24] and Pentecostal -[3875.24 --> 3875.74] power -[3875.74 --> 3876.94] to proclaim -[3876.94 --> 3878.52] goodness -[3878.52 --> 3880.30] our God. -[3881.46 --> 3882.08] Will you -[3882.08 --> 3882.62] go with me? -[3883.98 --> 3884.28] Will we -[3884.28 --> 3885.52] go together -[3885.52 --> 3886.46] as a church -[3886.46 --> 3887.28] to proclaim -[3887.28 --> 3888.22] what God -[3888.22 --> 3888.78] is doing -[3888.78 --> 3889.68] and has done -[3889.68 --> 3890.70] in Jesus Christ? -[3894.32 --> 3895.06] That's why -[3895.06 --> 3895.54] you were -[3895.54 --> 3896.80] reborn -[3896.80 --> 3898.94] to proclaim -[3898.94 --> 3900.02] the glory -[3900.02 --> 3901.08] and the goodness -[3901.08 --> 3901.92] of God. -[3902.84 --> 3903.86] This is -[3903.86 --> 3904.28] our -[3904.28 --> 3905.40] Pentecostal -[3905.40 --> 3906.44] purpose. -[3907.50 --> 3907.96] Let's pray -[3907.96 --> 3908.20] to you. -[3914.20 --> 3915.52] Holy Spirit -[3915.52 --> 3918.90] fill us -[3918.90 --> 3919.48] up. -[3920.28 --> 3920.70] Transform -[3920.70 --> 3921.30] us. -[3921.54 --> 3921.98] Send us -[3921.98 --> 3922.56] out in the -[3922.56 --> 3923.00] power -[3923.00 --> 3924.42] of your -[3924.42 --> 3925.34] holy -[3925.34 --> 3926.02] name. -[3927.66 --> 3928.16] May we -[3928.16 --> 3929.24] rely on -[3929.24 --> 3929.98] your Spirit -[3929.98 --> 3930.64] and find -[3930.64 --> 3931.00] our -[3931.00 --> 3931.94] identities -[3931.94 --> 3933.06] in you -[3933.06 --> 3933.76] Lord Jesus -[3933.76 --> 3934.30] Christ. -[3934.50 --> 3934.90] May we -[3934.90 --> 3935.80] rely on -[3935.80 --> 3937.00] Pentecostal -[3937.00 --> 3937.54] power -[3937.54 --> 3937.92] to be -[3937.92 --> 3938.20] filled -[3938.20 --> 3938.92] and go -[3938.92 --> 3939.44] out in -[3939.44 --> 3940.14] Pentecostal -[3940.14 --> 3940.70] purpose -[3940.70 --> 3941.48] as your -[3941.48 --> 3942.30] people -[3942.30 --> 3942.96] today. -[3942.96 --> 3944.44] In -[3944.44 --> 3944.92] Jesus -[3944.92 --> 3945.54] name -[3945.54 --> 3945.84] we -[3945.84 --> 3946.20] pray. -[3947.82 --> 3948.28] Filled -[3948.28 --> 3948.56] to -[3948.56 --> 3949.34] overflowing -[3949.34 --> 3950.54] with -[3950.54 --> 3950.70] your -[3950.70 --> 3951.08] love. -[3952.46 --> 3952.86] Amen. -[3952.86 --> 3952.88] Amen. -[3952.88 --> 3954.76] Amen. -[3982.88 --> 4000.32] Holy Spirit, rain down, rain down. -[4000.32 --> 4012.10] O comforter and friend, how we need your touch again. -[4012.10 --> 4025.36] Holy Spirit, rain down, rain down. -[4025.36 --> 4031.78] Let your power fall, let your voice be heard. -[4032.20 --> 4038.14] Come and change our hearts as we stand on your word. -[4038.14 --> 4047.14] Holy Spirit, rain down. -[4049.66 --> 4056.14] Holy Spirit, rain down. -[4056.14 --> 4061.14] Rain down. -[4061.14 --> 4062.14] Rain down. -[4062.14 --> 4073.14] O comforter and friend, how we need your touch again. -[4073.14 --> 4080.14] Holy Spirit, rain down. -[4080.14 --> 4082.14] Rain down. -[4082.14 --> 4086.14] Rain down. -[4086.14 --> 4093.14] Let your power fall, let your voice be heard. -[4093.14 --> 4099.14] Come and change our hearts as we stand on your word. -[4099.14 --> 4106.14] Holy Spirit, rain down. -[4106.14 --> 4113.14] Rain down. -[4113.14 --> 4118.14] No eye has seen, no ear has heard. -[4118.14 --> 4125.14] No mind can know what God has in store. -[4125.14 --> 4127.14] So open up heaven. -[4127.14 --> 4131.14] Open it wide. -[4131.14 --> 4138.14] Over your church and over our lives. -[4138.14 --> 4144.14] Holy Spirit, rain down. -[4144.14 --> 4145.14] Rain down. -[4145.14 --> 4146.14] Rain down. -[4146.14 --> 4147.14] Rain down. -[4147.14 --> 4148.14] Rain down. -[4148.14 --> 4151.14] Rain down. -[4151.14 --> 4163.14] Oh comforter and friend, how we need your touch again. -[4163.14 --> 4164.14] Holy Spirit, rain down. -[4164.14 --> 4165.14] Holy Spirit, rain down. -[4165.14 --> 4166.14] Rain down. -[4166.14 --> 4182.14] Let your power fall, let your voice be heard. -[4182.14 --> 4188.14] Come and change our hearts as we stand on your word. -[4188.14 --> 4208.14] Holy Spirit, rain down. -[4208.14 --> 4214.14] As you go this week, know that God goes with you. -[4214.14 --> 4220.14] The Holy Spirit goes in you, filling you full of Pentecostal purpose. -[4220.14 --> 4229.14] And as you go, look for an announcement from us on Tuesday with some clarity about what might be happening in the next weeks together. -[4229.14 --> 4236.14] Receive the blessing of our God for the journey of faith that we go on together. -[4236.14 --> 4240.14] May God go before you to lead you. -[4240.14 --> 4242.14] May God go behind you to guard you. -[4242.14 --> 4248.14] May God go beside you to befriend you. -[4248.14 --> 4251.14] Do not be afraid. -[4251.14 --> 4255.14] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[4255.14 --> 4257.14] Do not be afraid. -[4257.14 --> 4265.14] Go in Pentecostal purpose to love and serve the Lord. -[4265.14 --> 4266.14] Amen. -[4266.14 --> 4267.14] Amen. -[4267.14 --> 4268.14] During the following� is the April of the the introductions. -[4268.14 --> 4269.14] May. -[4269.14 --> 4270.14] Good. -[4270.14 --> 4271.14] May God go with us. -[4271.14 --> 4272.14] TS support us for starting to come in with ourrose.. -[4272.14 --> 4273.14] marsort this mountain. -[4273.14 --> 4286.24] Our -[4286.24 --> 4287.14] lives. -[4287.14 --> 4290.14] Are you inside for no longer than our pastor, our pastor, our pastor? -[4290.14 --> 4292.00] He reigns on high. -[4292.64 --> 4296.28] He is the Lord. -[4297.16 --> 4301.82] Spoke into the darkness, created the light. -[4302.48 --> 4305.46] He is the Lord. -[4306.68 --> 4311.80] Who is like unto Him, never ending in days. -[4311.80 --> 4316.04] He is the Lord. -[4316.04 --> 4321.58] And He comes in power when we call on His name. -[4322.24 --> 4326.02] He is the Lord. -[4326.50 --> 4336.10] Show Your power, O Lord our God. -[4336.10 --> 4346.02] Show Your power, O Lord our God. -[4346.04 --> 4349.14] Our God. -[4351.14 --> 4356.78] The gospel, O Lord, is the hope of our nation. -[4357.36 --> 4361.16] You are the Lord. -[4361.16 --> 4366.76] It's the power of God for our salvation. -[4367.38 --> 4371.36] You are the Lord. -[4371.36 --> 4376.50] We ask not for riches, but look to the cross. -[4376.50 --> 4380.80] You are the Lord. -[4380.80 --> 4386.30] And for our inheritance, give us the lost. -[4386.30 --> 4390.78] You are the Lord. -[4390.78 --> 4400.84] Send Your power, O Lord our God. -[4400.84 --> 4410.82] Send Your power, O Lord our God. -[4410.82 --> 4420.76] Show Your power, O Lord our God. -[4420.76 --> 4430.84] Show Your power, O Lord our God. -[4430.84 --> 4455.66] Our God is the Lord. -[4455.66 --> 4460.86] When the storm is a little bit stronger -[4460.86 --> 4467.26] When the fear in my heart digs a little bit deeper -[4467.26 --> 4473.90] When my faith to stand gets a little bit weaker -[4473.90 --> 4480.54] Where could I run to? Where could I go? -[4480.54 --> 4483.82] Even when it feels like my world is shaking -[4483.82 --> 4486.62] Even when I've had all that I can take -[4486.62 --> 4490.70] I know you'll never let me go -[4490.70 --> 4496.34] And even when the waters won't stop rising -[4496.34 --> 4499.38] Even when I'm caught in the dead of the night -[4499.38 --> 4503.78] I know no matter how it ends -[4503.78 --> 4506.42] You're with me even there -[4506.42 --> 4515.66] When the days up ahead look a little bit brighter -[4515.66 --> 4522.02] But the grip of the past holds a little bit tighter -[4522.02 --> 4528.42] I'm reminded your grace never asked for perfection -[4528.42 --> 4534.74] I'm restored cause I'm yours and I stand forgiving -[4534.74 --> 4541.14] Even when it feels like my world is shaking -[4541.14 --> 4544.22] Even when I've had all that I can take -[4544.22 --> 4548.30] I know you'll never let me go -[4548.30 --> 4553.90] And even when the waters won't stop rising -[4553.90 --> 4556.98] Even when I'm caught in the dead of the night -[4556.98 --> 4561.34] I know no matter how it ends -[4561.34 --> 4564.10] You're with me even there -[4564.10 --> 4566.70] And even in the middle of the struggle -[4566.70 --> 4569.90] And even when it's hard to remember -[4569.90 --> 4573.26] You alone am out of faith when -[4573.26 --> 4575.54] I'm standing on your promises -[4575.54 --> 4579.54] And I know that even in the thick of a battle -[4579.54 --> 4582.86] And even through the valley of the shadows -[4582.86 --> 4586.14] You alone am out of faith when -[4586.14 --> 4588.34] I'm standing on your promises -[4588.34 --> 4591.18] So where could I run to? -[4592.30 --> 4593.82] Where could I go? -[4595.42 --> 4599.02] Even when it feels like my world is shaking -[4599.02 --> 4601.74] Even when I've had all that I can take -[4601.74 --> 4605.86] I know you'll never let me go -[4605.86 --> 4611.30] And even when the waters won't stop rising -[4611.30 --> 4614.58] Even when I'm caught in the dead of the night -[4614.58 --> 4619.26] Even when I'm caught in the dead of the night -[4619.26 --> 4621.70] Even when I'm caught in the dead of the night -[4621.70 --> 4623.10] Even when I'm caught in the dead of the night -[4623.10 --> 4624.98] You're with me, yeah -[4624.98 --> 4628.58] No matter how it ends -[4628.58 --> 4634.52] You're with me even there -[4634.52 --> 4643.46] There was a time that I swore I would never go back -[4643.46 --> 4646.78] I was blind to the truth -[4646.78 --> 4649.24] Didn't know what I had -[4649.24 --> 4651.62] I was running -[4651.62 --> 4652.98] I was searching -[4652.98 --> 4656.08] But every place I turned for healing -[4656.08 --> 4659.50] Left me more broken than the last -[4659.50 --> 4661.62] Take me back -[4661.62 --> 4664.26] To the place that feels like home -[4664.26 --> 4667.12] To the people I can depend on -[4667.12 --> 4670.30] To the faith that's in my bones -[4670.30 --> 4672.30] Take me back -[4672.30 --> 4672.38] Take me back -[4672.38 --> 4673.62] To a preacher -[4673.62 --> 4675.08] In a verse -[4675.08 --> 4677.76] Where they've seen me at my worst -[4677.76 --> 4680.44] To the love I had at first -[4680.44 --> 4684.50] Oh, I wanna go to church -[4684.50 --> 4689.44] Trying to walk on my own -[4689.44 --> 4691.82] But I'm wound up lost -[4691.82 --> 4696.42] Now I'm making my way to the foot of the cross -[4696.42 --> 4701.10] It's not a trophy for the winners -[4701.10 --> 4704.16] It's a shelter for the sinners -[4704.16 --> 4706.82] And it's right where I belong -[4706.82 --> 4709.54] Take me back -[4709.54 --> 4712.22] To the place that feels like home -[4712.22 --> 4715.16] To the people I can depend on -[4715.16 --> 4718.24] To the faith that's in my bones -[4718.24 --> 4720.10] Take me back -[4720.10 --> 4721.58] To a preacher -[4721.58 --> 4723.00] In a verse -[4723.00 --> 4725.72] Where they've seen me at my worst -[4725.72 --> 4728.42] To the love I had at first -[4728.42 --> 4731.06] Oh, I wanna go to church -[4731.06 --> 4736.06] I wanna go to church -[4736.06 --> 4737.06] I wanna go to church -[4737.06 --> 4745.34] Oh, more than an obligation -[4745.34 --> 4748.22] It's our foundation -[4748.22 --> 4750.70] The family of God -[4750.70 --> 4752.94] I know it's hard -[4752.94 --> 4756.20] But we need a turner -[4756.20 --> 4758.94] With sisters and brothers -[4758.94 --> 4763.10] Oh, take me back -[4763.10 --> 4765.78] To the place that feels like home -[4765.78 --> 4768.48] To the people I can depend on -[4768.48 --> 4771.62] To the faith that's in my bones -[4771.62 --> 4773.52] Take me back -[4773.52 --> 4774.94] To a preacher -[4774.94 --> 4776.34] In a verse -[4776.34 --> 4779.02] Where they've seen me at my worst -[4779.02 --> 4781.74] To the love I had at first -[4781.74 --> 4784.20] Oh, I wanna go to church -[4784.20 --> 4789.84] I wanna go to church -[4789.84 --> 4794.20] I wanna go to church diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 29, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 29, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2b00b8a56ac4aef4f088789b5f7e4a42d9a45ae8..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 29, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,201 +0,0 @@ -• Promises and reliability of God -• Consistency of God's power and mercy -• Endurance and faithfulness of God -• Hope for brighter days in midst of pain and struggle -• Desperation for love and connection with God -• Feeling lost and broken, seeking help and redemption -• The speaker expresses desperation for love and grace -• A person named Chira is said to be in love -• The Ascension Day celebration is continued from Thursday -• Announcements are made about a fire drill, kids' camp registration, and connect cards for visitors -• Worship begins with a reading and responsive singing -• The majesty and power of God -• God's holiness and uniqueness -• Worship and praise for God -• Faith in God's goodness and presence -• Confession of sins and seeking mercy -• Praise and adoration of the Holy Trinity -• Thanksgiving and gratitude to God -• Discussion of a song with lyrics about hope and Christ -• Explanation of Teen Challenge, a Christian organization helping adults and teens overcome addiction -• Announcement of next week's offering for the C-10 commission to every nation -• Sermon or reading from the Bible, specifically Isaiah -• Interactions with children and discussion about Kids Corner -• Discussion about names and their meanings -• Isaiah's name meaning "God to the rescue" -• Sharing of personal knowledge about one's own name (Zoe, Amara, Malachi) -• Identification of individuals in the audience with specific names (Clem, Lena, John) -• Popular church name mentioned: John -• Prayers for the recovery of a family member with an unknown illness -• Prayer for Judy Dykstra, who is in the hospital with a virus -• Condolences and prayers for the Cool family after the loss of Leslie's dad -• Discussion of the devastating situation in Texas and prayers for those affected -• Prayers for safety during a sit-in meeting scheduled to take place on June 10th-16th -• Reflection on Ascension Day, including its significance in traditional reformed theology -• Introduction of a theological/historical discussion about John Calvin's ideas -• Explanation of John Calvin's significance as a 16th century reformer in understanding the Bible -• Description of Jesus' ascension as opening access to the heavenly kingdom, reversing what Adam had shut -• Discussion of humanity being already in heaven through Jesus, who is considered head -• Explanation of Jesus constantly appearing as advocate and intercessor before God's presence -• Discussion of the consequences of Jesus' crucifixion in turning away God's wrath from sinners -• Description of Jesus standing before the Father, presenting his righteousness and perfection to counterbalance humanity's sinfulness -• Christ's ascension is the foundation for spiritual riches in the church -• The Holy Spirit is sent by the Father through Christ, enabling new life and redemption -• Redemption was fully and completely accomplished when Christ ascended to the Father without a specific day or time -• The Heidelberg Catechism answers 49 explains how Christ's ascension benefits us -• Participation in worship reminds us of Jesus' accomplishments and invites us to participate in them -• Ordinary worship is not ordinary, but rather an expression of God's enthroned kingdom. -• Ascension day and its significance -• The concept of ordinary worship in traditional reformed theology -• The idea that worship can be extraordinary despite being regular or routine -• The importance of looking at the book of Revelation for a deeper understanding of worship -• A plan to read and discuss specific verses from Revelation 4 -• A door standing open in heaven -• A voice speaking to the narrator, telling them to come up and show them what must take place after this -• The narrator being taken into the spirit where they see a throne in heaven with someone sitting on it -• Description of the person on the throne, including their appearance as jasper and ruby, surrounded by a rainbow-like emerald -• 24 other thrones with 24 elders seated on them, dressed in white with gold crowns -• Flashes of lightning, rumblings, and peals of thunder coming from the throne -• Seven lamps blazing before the throne, representing the seven spirits of God -• A sea of glass like crystal in front of the throne -• Four living creatures covered in eyes, each representing a different animal (lion, ox, man, eagle) -• The living creatures in heaven give glory and honor to God who sits on the throne -• They worship Him, acknowledging His worthiness to receive power and glory -• The book of Revelation is a picture of the world as it is and what will happen -• It invites us into its vision of the world, past, present, and future -• We must have eyes to see and ears to hear this revelation in a world filled with competing messages and narratives. -• Discussing the need for truth and reality in a world of competing ideas and falsehoods -• Explaining the concept of apocalyptic literature and its distinction from popular perceptions of the word "apocalypse" -• Understanding the use of apocalyptic stylings in biblical writing, including the book of Revelation -• Translating the Greek term "apokalyptos" to the English word "revelation" and its meaning as a lens for understanding what is and isn't true -• Adapting to change and letting go of things that are no longer relevant -• The nature of perception and how we see (or don't see) certain things in life -• A story about two young fish swimming with an older fish who asks them a philosophical question -• Reflection on how youth views old age and the inevitability of change -• Reference to a Christian philosopher named Jamie Smith and his book "You Are What You Love" -• Discussion of the concept of being unaware of one's surroundings, likened to fish swimming in water -• Explanation that becoming aware of reality is crucial to living a meaningful life -• Mention of apocalyptic literature, including the Book of Revelation, as a means of raising awareness about the importance of self-reflection and understanding one's place in the world -• Description of Jamie Smith's book as a resource for exploring the concept of being "in" something without fully realizing it. -• Secular liturgies in everyday life -• Recognizing the world and culture in a new way -• The need to wake up to reality and shake off distractions -• Being aware of the matrix that surrounds us -• The theme of awareness and perception, specifically referencing apocalyptic literature from the Bible -• Apocalyptic literature is not just prediction, but also a way to unmask and unveil the realities around us -• Vertical louvered blinds are no longer in style -• LCD screens used as roadside advertisements were previously used with louvered screens to switch between images -• Comparing vertical louvered blinds to the concept of apocalyptic literature -• Obstacles to seeing the truth -• Blindness as a metaphor for ignorance or avoidance of reality -• Apocalyptic literature and its themes -• Hiding behind masks or illusions -• The influence of culture on perception and truth-telling -• Comparing apocalyptic literature to rival empires in history -• The effects of apocalyptic literature on perspective -• Comparison between screen representation and reality -• Personal anecdote about observing an outlet mall's impact on a community -• Misrepresentation vs. actuality in media portrayals -• Invitation to re-examine what is presented on screens -• Reflection on the influence of mass media on perception -• The speaker compares the mall to a temple -• Modern consumerism is seen as a form of worship or spirituality -• The mall has a deliberate design and structure that influences behavior and commitment -• This phenomenon is not limited to the mall, but is a broader aspect of modern culture -• True understanding and critique can only come from observing these systems with "eyes to see" -• Discussion of current events and their impact on the speaker's thoughts -• Ascension of Jesus and its effects on believers -• Worship and its connection to everyday life -• Distinction between worship in the present and worship as a lifestyle -• Concept of living coram Deo (before the face of God) -• The difference between gathered worship and scattered worship -• Gathered worship, including Sunday morning or evening services -• Scattered worship, occurring throughout the day in various forms such as work, parenting, play, art, and obedience to parents -• Worship is not limited to traditional church gatherings but can be practiced in everyday life -• The purpose of gathering for worship -• Ordinary vs extraordinary worship -• Interpretation of the Book of Revelation -• John's vision of heaven and its significance -• Understanding the heavenly throne room -• Seeking truth behind appearances -• The Lord's day is Sunday, observed since Jesus' resurrection -• John was with the church when he had a vision and saw heaven -• Heaven's voice instructed John on what to expect after his time on earth -• The instructions refer to the ethical instructions in Revelation 2-3 -• John says that those who live according to these instructions will face persecution but will also have a life of worship and redefinition -• The Bible's reference to Jesus or the angel addressing churches -• The importance of listening to the spirit for victorious individuals -• Rewards for being victorious, including eating from the tree of life and accessing hidden manna -• Protection from harm and death, specifically the second death -• Special privileges given to those who are victorious -• The concept of a new name written on something known only by one person -• Rewards and authority given to the victorious one in chapter 3, verse 5 -• The victorious one will be dressed in white and have their name acknowledged in the book of life -• The mention of fathers and angels and constant intercession -• The reward for the victorious one in verse 12, including a pillar in the temple of God -• Jesus' message about being victorious in this world and the next -• The difference between who we are and what we may be defined by -• The importance of perseverance and not letting sin define us -• Being considered sanctified among others does not determine one's identity -• Wandering or making mistakes does not define a person's true nature -• The nature of identity and how it is defined by past experiences -• The power of fear and its effects on perception and reality -• The role of faith, courage, and God in overcoming fear and defining oneself -• The idea that one's true self is not bound by external circumstances or negative emotions -• The concept of spiritual sight and vision from a higher perspective -• A throne is described with a person sitting on it, who has the appearance of jasper and ruby, surrounded by a rainbow. -• The throne is flanked by 24 other thrones, each occupied by an elder dressed in white with gold crowns. -• Flashes of lightning, rumblings, and peals of thunder emanate from the throne. -• Seven lamps are blazing in front of the throne, representing the seven spirits of God. -• The importance of perspective on God's dwelling place -• The majesty, mystery, and beauty of God's presence -• The limits of human comprehension in understanding God -• The idea that words cannot contain the fullness of God's nature -• The concept of participating in or experiencing God's presence -• The concept of the center around the throne is described -• Four living creatures are mentioned, each with six wings and eyes all around them -• Scholars agree that what's happening is a picture of creation coming back to worship God -• Reference is made to Genesis 1, where animals come together in worship of God -• Psalm 19 is also referenced, where the creation proclaims the glory of God -• Purpose of existence is to glorify God -• All creation exists for the glory of God -• Worship is ongoing in heaven, day and night -• Living creatures give glory and worship to God constantly -• The elders are worshipped day and night without stopping -• Continuous worship by both living creatures and humans -• Ordinary worship is not ordinary -• Worship is an invitation to join with the voices of heaven -• Praises are sung with creation in concert for God's glory -• In ordinary worship, we are pulled into everyday moments of worship -• The focus should be on Jesus and the gospel message -• Gathering together should be centered on Him and His word -• The nature of worship and its connection to heaven -• Treatments of worship as ordinary or mundane -• Gathering with expectation, urgency, and a sense of joining in heavenly glories -• Opening up heaven to us in worship -• Potential for extraordinary worship to have an impact on our lives -• Connection between gathered worship and the spiritual realm -• Ascension day is important -• Jesus' ascension opened access to the heavenly kingdom -• Revelation 4:8 mentions day and night worship in heaven -• Worship opens up heaven to you, allowing participation in what heaven is doing -• Having entered the spiritual temple, one appears as an advocate and intercessor before God -• John describes a vision of Jesus as both a lamb and a lion. -• The lamb was slain, standing at the center of the throne, and represents God's love for people. -• The lion represents protection and defense, symbolizing God's care for His people. -• Calvin shares scriptures from Revelation 510, discussing how believers have become a kingdom and priests to serve God. -• The ascension of Jesus is mentioned as a reason why believers can reign on earth with Him. -• The Holy Spirit and purposes given to believers are seen as gifts that enable them to reign with Christ. -• Invocation to worship -• Invitation to stand and sing a song -• Prayer for spiritual sight and understanding -• Praise of God's attributes and worthiness -• Mention of heavenly realm, angels, and earthly saints -• Reference to Jesus as the source of life, light, and cleansing. -• Holding homes of victory -• Heart and new chorus standing for God almighty -• Throne of throne, love, and victoria -• Praise to all, God has won salvation -• Contrast in who shall guard and stone be holy -• Kingdom peace, all right as exit -• Remain calm and follow others \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 29, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 29, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c8016e33ecb397a39a5615bdeb296678add49ad1..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 29, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,4603 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.90] Yeah, when did he break his promise? When did his kindness fail? -[7.24 --> 12.02] Never has, never will, my God is still the same -[12.02 --> 18.82] When did he lose his power? When did his mercy change? -[19.14 --> 23.64] Never has, never will, my God is still the same -[23.64 --> 30.36] Not once did he ever stop moving Not once has he ever let go -[30.36 --> 36.24] Not once did he ever stop proving Our God is in control -[36.24 --> 42.10] Not once did he ever stop moving Not once has he ever let go -[42.10 --> 47.82] Not once did he ever stop proving Our God is in control -[47.82 --> 53.76] When did he break his guns? When did his kindness fail? -[54.16 --> 58.86] Never has, never will, my God is still the same. -[59.80 --> 65.60] When did he lose his power? When did his mercy change? -[65.96 --> 70.40] Never has, never will, my God is still the same. -[70.40 --> 77.26] When did he ever stop moving? No one since he ever let go. -[77.62 --> 82.98] No one since he ever stopped proving, my God is still the same. -[83.46 --> 88.92] No one since he ever stopped moving, no one since he ever let go. -[88.92 --> 94.00] Never has, never will, my God is still the same. -[100.40 --> 105.98] My God is still the same. -[112.56 --> 117.40] I know there's gonna be some brighter days. -[118.12 --> 122.76] I swear that love will find you in your pain. -[123.76 --> 129.78] I feel it in me like the beating of life in my veins. -[129.78 --> 134.00] I know there's gonna be some brighter days. -[135.24 --> 139.70] I know there's gonna be some brighter days. -[141.30 --> 145.18] Oh, ashes fall from burning dreams. -[146.22 --> 150.80] Oh, never live through times like these. -[150.80 --> 158.58] Oh, if you're trying hard to breathe in the dark. -[158.58 --> 161.18] In the dark. -[161.18 --> 167.52] Oh, I know there's gonna be some brighter days. -[167.52 --> 172.92] Yes, I swear that love will find you in your pain. -[172.92 --> 174.34] Oh, oh, oh. -[174.34 --> 179.92] I feel it in me like the beating of life in my veins. -[179.92 --> 184.38] I know there's gonna be some brighter days. -[185.38 --> 189.98] I know there's gonna be some brighter days. -[190.98 --> 196.38] Oh, if your screams don't make a sound. -[196.38 --> 201.52] Oh, if your walls are crashing down. -[201.52 --> 208.36] Oh, if your heart just cries too loud all the time. -[209.20 --> 211.22] All the time. -[211.62 --> 213.38] Oh, oh, oh. -[213.38 --> 217.30] I know there's gonna be some brighter days. -[217.30 --> 218.56] Oh, brighter days. -[218.56 --> 248.54] Oh, oh, oh. -[248.54 --> 251.58] Oh, oh, oh, oh. -[251.58 --> 253.80] I said brighter days. -[253.80 --> 257.92] Oh, oh, oh, oh. -[257.92 --> 259.44] Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh. -[259.44 --> 262.50] There's gonna be some brighter days. -[263.36 --> 268.26] I know there's gonna be some brighter days. -[269.22 --> 273.48] I swear that love will find you in your pain. -[273.48 --> 281.86] I feel it in me like the beating of life in my veins. -[281.86 --> 282.86] Oh, oh, oh, oh. -[282.86 --> 283.28] Oh, oh, oh, oh. -[283.28 --> 283.36] Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh. -[283.36 --> 287.60] I know there's gonna be some brighter days. -[288.00 --> 289.68] Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh. -[289.68 --> 291.98] Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh. -[291.98 --> 299.86] I feel it in me like the beating of life in my veins -[299.86 --> 304.36] I know there's gonna be some brighter days -[304.36 --> 309.92] I know there's gonna be some brighter days -[309.92 --> 316.30] I know there's gonna be some brighter days -[321.98 --> 351.96] I know there's gonna be some brighter days -[351.98 --> 353.70] Call me home -[353.70 --> 355.78] Desesperado -[355.78 --> 358.84] Oh, I'm desperate for your love -[358.84 --> 361.44] Nothing else will ever be enough -[361.44 --> 364.30] More than the air that's in my lungs -[364.30 --> 366.48] Desesperado -[366.48 --> 369.40] Oh, I'm desperate for your grace -[369.40 --> 371.86] I need you and I'm under shame -[371.86 --> 374.86] Breathe new life into my veins -[374.86 --> 376.86] Desesperado -[376.86 --> 383.44] Oh, I'm desperate I confess I'm a mess -[383.44 --> 386.08] And I'm finally here at the end of myself -[386.08 --> 389.38] Quería ser aventurero pero ya soy extranjero -[389.38 --> 391.44] And now I'm calling out for help -[391.44 --> 393.44] I'm getting lost too much -[393.44 --> 394.46] I felt like I was doomed -[394.46 --> 396.60] But my failures you turned around -[396.60 --> 398.52] Spoke to these dry bones -[398.52 --> 399.24] Desesperado -[399.24 --> 416.24] Oh, I'm desperate for your love -[416.24 --> 418.24] Nothing else will ever be enough -[418.24 --> 421.16] More than the air that's in my lungs -[421.16 --> 421.92] I'm breathing -[421.92 --> 423.24] Desesperado -[423.24 --> 426.24] Oh, I'm desperate for your grace -[426.78 --> 429.28] I need you and I'm under shame -[429.28 --> 432.26] Breathe new life into my veins -[432.26 --> 434.38] Desesperado -[434.38 --> 437.00] There's only one way I'll pull through -[437.00 --> 439.54] If it's the last thing that I do -[439.54 --> 442.20] I will breathe the driest desert -[442.20 --> 444.80] If it leads me back to you -[444.80 --> 447.60] I'm laying down my pride -[447.60 --> 450.06] I'm giving you my life -[450.06 --> 453.30] Without you I know I am -[453.30 --> 454.82] Desesperado -[454.82 --> 457.94] Oh, I'm desperate for your love -[457.94 --> 460.56] Nothing else will ever be enough -[460.56 --> 463.42] More than the air that's in my lungs -[463.42 --> 465.42] Desesperado -[465.42 --> 468.52] Oh, I'm desperate for your grace -[468.52 --> 470.96] I need you and I'm under shame -[470.96 --> 474.14] Breathe new life into my veins -[474.14 --> 475.42] Desesperado -[476.08 --> 479.00] You're the air that I'm breathing -[479.00 --> 480.42] Desesperado -[481.50 --> 484.76] I know I need you -[484.76 --> 486.42] Desesperado -[486.42 --> 491.42] Desesperado -[491.42 --> 493.42] Oh -[493.42 --> 509.06] I'll never be more loved than I am right now. -[509.06 --> 515.94] Wasn't holding you up, so there's nothing I can do to let you down. -[515.94 --> 524.54] It doesn't take a trophy to make you proud. -[524.54 --> 532.18] I'll never be more loved than I am right now. -[532.18 --> 537.18] Going through a storm, but I won't go down. -[537.18 --> 545.02] I hear your voice carried in the rhythm of the wind to call me out. -[545.02 --> 552.26] You would cross an ocean, so I wouldn't drown. -[552.26 --> 558.70] You've never been closer than you are right now. -[558.70 --> 565.58] Chira, you are in love. -[565.58 --> 572.02] Chira, you are in love. -[572.02 --> 579.26] And I will be content in every circumstance. -[579.26 --> 585.26] Chira, you are in love. -[585.26 --> 588.50] Forever enough, always enough. -[588.50 --> 593.50] More than enough. -[593.50 --> 596.50] I don't want to forget. -[596.50 --> 603.74] Good morning. -[603.74 --> 605.74] Let's try that again this morning. -[605.74 --> 606.74] Morning. -[606.74 --> 607.74] Hey. -[607.74 --> 608.74] Nice work. -[608.74 --> 609.74] Thank you all. -[609.74 --> 615.74] I hope and trust that you are awake and ready to worship this morning. -[615.74 --> 619.98] We had a welcome party here, not here, at the park last night. -[619.98 --> 622.98] And some of us were swimming until nine o'clock. -[622.98 --> 625.98] And so now's the time to wake up. -[625.98 --> 626.98] Malachi. -[626.98 --> 631.98] Perfect. -[631.98 --> 635.98] In case you don't know, my name is Chris. -[635.98 --> 645.22] I'm one of the pastors here, and it's my privilege, along with these others, to lead in our shared worship today. -[645.22 --> 654.98] We are continuing an Ascension Day celebration that we started on Thursday, and we'll carry that theme through our worship together this morning. -[654.98 --> 661.98] And so we are grateful for the opportunity to gather before we begin in earnest just a couple announcements. -[661.98 --> 668.98] At some point in our service today, we are going to practice a fire drill. -[668.98 --> 673.98] And so be ready, but you don't have to sit on the edge of your seat yet. -[673.98 --> 675.98] That's all I'll say. -[675.98 --> 684.98] In addition, if you are here in the worship space, when the fire alarm sounds, we will be exiting out either of these doors. -[684.98 --> 688.98] So divide yourselves this way and that way and go there. -[688.98 --> 692.98] Other instructions will be given at the point of that drill. -[692.98 --> 693.98] So be ready. -[693.98 --> 705.98] Also, just wanted to indicate that we are hosting here a kids' camp July 11 to 15 for kids aged 3 to 7. -[705.98 --> 707.98] The sign-up for that has gone live. -[707.98 --> 709.98] It went out in the e-bulletin. -[709.98 --> 713.98] You can find it on our church website on the event page. -[713.98 --> 717.98] Feel free to share that with family and friends. -[717.98 --> 723.98] We do have a maximum of 30 spaces available, and we're already about halfway there. -[723.98 --> 730.98] So take that to mind as you make your plans and go to register. -[730.98 --> 735.98] Additionally, if you are visiting with us, we have these connect cards available. -[735.98 --> 737.98] We encourage you to fill one out. -[737.98 --> 743.98] You can find them on the back table there, or there's digital versions that you can scan with your phone and have access there. -[743.98 --> 749.98] And then we'll be able to connect with you and welcome you into our church family as we worship together. -[749.98 --> 759.98] With that said, I'm going to invite you, as you're able, to stand and we can be brought into the presence of our God for worship. -[759.98 --> 763.98] Receive the greeting of our God. -[763.98 --> 775.98] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, our Ascended Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[775.98 --> 777.98] Amen. -[777.98 --> 779.98] Let's worship God. -[779.98 --> 785.98] God calls us to worship this morning, and we'll do that responsively today. -[785.98 --> 790.98] And so I will lead us in a bit of a reading here, and then at the end you will please join me in responding as well. -[790.98 --> 798.98] Let us join our voices to praise the spotless Lamb, Jesus Christ, who has redeemed us from sin and death. -[798.98 --> 808.98] We, whom he has redeemed, will sing praises and shout for joy this hour, because in Christ the Lamb, we have redemption through his blood, -[808.98 --> 813.98] the forgiveness of our sins in accordance with the riches of his grace. -[813.98 --> 819.98] Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us. -[819.98 --> 823.98] Let us praise him by saying, -[823.98 --> 826.98] Worthy is the Lamb who is slain, -[826.98 --> 834.98] to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise. -[834.98 --> 844.98] To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb, we give worship of his power and forever and ever. Amen. -[844.98 --> 872.98] Who else commands all the hosts of heaven? -[872.98 --> 879.98] Who else can make every king bow down? -[879.98 --> 885.98] Who else can whisper and darkness trembles? -[885.98 --> 892.98] Only a holy God. -[892.98 --> 898.98] What other beauty demands such praises? -[898.98 --> 904.98] What other splendor outshines the sun? -[904.98 --> 909.98] What other majesty rules with justice? -[909.98 --> 915.98] Only a holy God. -[915.98 --> 925.98] Come and behold him, the one and the only. -[925.98 --> 934.98] Cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[934.98 --> 938.98] Come and worship the holy God. -[938.98 --> 953.98] What other glory consumes like fire. -[953.98 --> 959.98] What other power can raise the dead. -[959.98 --> 961.98] What other name remains undefeated? -[961.98 --> 964.98] What other name remains undefeated? -[964.98 --> 966.98] Only a holy God. -[966.98 --> 970.98] Only a holy God. -[970.98 --> 980.98] Come and behold him, the one and the only. -[980.98 --> 981.98] Cry out, sing holy, the one and the only. -[981.98 --> 982.98] Cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[982.98 --> 987.98] Come and behold him, the one and the only. -[987.98 --> 995.98] Come and behold him, the one and the only. -[995.98 --> 1003.88] Come and behold Him, the one and the only. -[1003.88 --> 1011.88] Cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[1012.96 --> 1016.62] Come and worship the holy God. -[1025.98 --> 1031.12] Who else could rescue me from my failing? -[1031.76 --> 1037.06] Who else would offer His only Son? -[1038.58 --> 1042.94] Who else invites me to call Him Father? -[1044.62 --> 1047.78] Only a holy God. -[1049.28 --> 1052.46] Only my holy God. -[1055.98 --> 1064.30] Come and behold Him, the one and the only. -[1064.30 --> 1073.30] Cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[1073.68 --> 1077.80] Come and worship the holy God. -[1077.80 --> 1087.24] Come and behold Him, the one and the only. -[1088.34 --> 1096.90] Cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[1097.12 --> 1101.80] Come and worship the holy God. -[1101.80 --> 1131.78] Cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[1131.78 --> 1137.00] Lord God almighty. -[1138.10 --> 1147.84] Early in the morning, our song shall rise to Thee. -[1147.84 --> 1157.84] Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty. -[1157.84 --> 1166.84] God in three persons, blessed Trinity. -[1166.84 --> 1173.84] Holy, holy, holy, holy, holy. -[1173.84 --> 1178.84] All the saints adore Thee. -[1178.84 --> 1187.84] Casting down their golden crowns around the blessed sea. -[1187.84 --> 1208.08] ор might have faith in Full, surely, holy, holy, holy. -[1208.08 --> 1214.30] Holy, holy, holy -[1214.30 --> 1220.54] Though the darkness hide Thee -[1220.54 --> 1224.22] Though the eye may blind -[1224.22 --> 1230.42] By sin Thy glory may not see -[1230.42 --> 1236.32] Only Thou art holy -[1236.32 --> 1242.32] There is none beside Thee -[1242.32 --> 1251.66] Perfect in power, in love and purity -[1251.66 --> 1258.70] Holy, holy, holy -[1258.70 --> 1263.32] Lord God Almighty -[1263.32 --> 1269.52] All Thy works shall praise Thy name -[1269.52 --> 1274.32] In earth and sky and sea -[1274.32 --> 1279.32] Holy, holy, holy -[1279.32 --> 1285.32] Merciful and mighty -[1285.32 --> 1290.32] God in three persons -[1290.32 --> 1294.32] Blessed Trinity -[1294.32 --> 1321.32] Seeing that we have a great high priest who has entered the inmost heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us therefore approach the throne of grace with full confidence that we may receive mercy for all of our failures and grace to help in the hour of need. In the strength of this assurance, let us confess our sins to God in a moment of silent prayer. -[1321.32 --> 1324.32] Amen. -[1324.32 --> 1325.32] Amen. -[1325.32 --> 1326.32] Amen. -[1326.32 --> 1328.32] Amen. -[1328.32 --> 1358.30] Thank you. -[1358.32 --> 1388.30] Thank you. -[1388.32 --> 1390.32] Thank you. -[1418.32 --> 1420.32] Thank you. -[1448.32 --> 1450.32] Thank you. -[1478.32 --> 1480.32] Thank you. -[1508.32 --> 1510.32] Thank you. -[1538.32 --> 1540.32] Thank you. -[1568.32 --> 1570.32] Thank you. -[1570.32 --> 1572.32] Thank you. -[1572.32 --> 1574.32] Thank you. -[1574.32 --> 1576.32] Thank you. -[1576.32 --> 1578.32] Thank you. -[1578.32 --> 1580.32] Thank you. -[1580.32 --> 1582.32] Thank you. -[1582.32 --> 1584.32] Thank you. -[1584.32 --> 1586.32] Thank you. -[1586.32 --> 1588.32] Thank you. -[1588.32 --> 1590.32] Thank you. -[1590.32 --> 1592.32] Thank you. -[1592.32 --> 1594.32] Thank you. -[1594.32 --> 1596.32] Thank you. -[1596.32 --> 1598.32] Thank you. -[1598.32 --> 1600.32] Thank you. -[1600.32 --> 1602.32] Thank you. -[1602.32 --> 1604.32] Thank you. -[1604.32 --> 1608.32] Thank you. -[1608.32 --> 1612.32] Oh, sing hallelujah -[1612.32 --> 1617.52] Our hope springs eternal, all sing. -[1618.52 --> 1623.94] Hallelujah, now and never we confess. -[1623.94 --> 1627.94] Christ our hope in life and death. -[1633.98 --> 1639.20] But truth can't calm the troubled soul. -[1639.20 --> 1643.36] God is good, God is good. -[1643.74 --> 1647.70] Where is His grace and goodness flow? -[1647.70 --> 1652.20] All our graves make demons fly. -[1652.56 --> 1656.60] Who holds our faith when fears arise? -[1656.94 --> 1660.92] Who stands above the stormy trial? -[1661.32 --> 1665.48] Who sends the waves that bring us nigh? -[1665.48 --> 1671.32] Unto the shore of the rock of Christ. -[1672.52 --> 1676.18] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[1677.18 --> 1680.52] Our hope springs eternal. -[1681.18 --> 1684.82] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[1684.82 --> 1688.82] Now and never we confess. -[1689.16 --> 1692.82] Christ our hope in life and death. -[1696.52 --> 1701.24] Unto the grave what will we sing? -[1701.70 --> 1705.80] Christ He lives, Christ He lives. -[1705.80 --> 1710.68] And what reward will heaven bring? -[1712.44 --> 1714.64] Everlasting life within. -[1715.68 --> 1719.86] There we will rise to meet the Lord. -[1720.22 --> 1723.80] Then sin and death will be destroyed. -[1724.54 --> 1728.76] And we will feast in endless joy. -[1728.76 --> 1733.76] When Christ is ours forevermore. -[1733.76 --> 1739.76] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[1739.76 --> 1743.76] Our hope springs eternal. -[1743.76 --> 1747.76] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[1747.76 --> 1751.76] Now and never we confess. -[1751.76 --> 1752.24] Now and never we confess. -[1752.24 --> 1755.96] Christ our hope in life and death. -[1755.96 --> 1759.96] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[1759.96 --> 1763.76] Our hope springs eternal. -[1763.76 --> 1767.76] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[1767.76 --> 1771.76] Now and never we confess. -[1771.76 --> 1775.76] Christ our hope in life and death. -[1775.76 --> 1778.76] Now and never we confess. -[1778.76 --> 1783.76] Christ our hope in life and death. -[1786.76 --> 1788.28] You may have a seat. -[1801.76 --> 1814.00] Today's offerings are for the budget of Emmanuel and Teen Challenge. -[1814.76 --> 1821.76] Teen Challenge is a Christian organization that helps adults and teens overcome addiction. -[1821.76 --> 1831.76] They believe that God is the candidate for change for people with life-controlling drug and alcohol problems. -[1832.76 --> 1835.76] Treatment is important, but transformation is key. -[1836.76 --> 1843.76] The program depends on the power of God's word to provide people with a guiding light. -[1844.76 --> 1848.76] They come to recognize the Holy Spirit's work in their lives. -[1848.76 --> 1851.76] This often takes time. -[1851.76 --> 1853.76] Give as the Lord has given you. -[1853.76 --> 1860.76] Next week's offering is for the budget and C-10 commission to every nation. -[1860.76 --> 1872.72] Father therost jáde recommendation to generous tonal work. -[1873.76 --> 1878.76] So as you are, if it does notleen for that we can give you a tribulation dur douteic. -[1878.76 --> 1880.76] God and never we can give you a tribulation for God. -[1880.76 --> 1881.76] We have to advance the possibility of God once again. -[1881.76 --> 1886.76] This is the I will be an planned to resonate with others. -[1887.76 --> 1889.76] And as you are honored to dwell on that we canожет masters basis betweenдose and spiritual and spiritual. -[1889.76 --> 1898.58] You spoke the earth into motion, my soul now to stand. -[1902.38 --> 1913.46] You stood me for my failure, and carried the cross for my shame. -[1913.46 --> 1923.20] I said, wait upon your shoulders, my soul now to stand. -[1926.28 --> 1928.72] So what can I say? -[1932.46 --> 1935.60] What can I do? -[1935.60 --> 1949.60] I offer this heart, O God, completely to you. -[1949.60 --> 1962.82] So I'll walk upon salvation, your spirit alive in me. -[1964.34 --> 1971.60] My life to declare your promise, my soul now to stand. -[1971.60 --> 1977.60] So what can I say? -[1980.60 --> 1983.60] And what can I do? -[1987.60 --> 1996.60] But offer this heart, O God, completely to you. -[1996.60 --> 2001.60] So what can I say? -[2005.60 --> 2007.60] And what can I do? -[2007.60 --> 2021.60] And offer this heart, O God, completely to you. -[2021.60 --> 2024.60] Please do this. -[2024.60 --> 2037.48] So I'll stand with arms I've won't abandon. -[2037.60 --> 2043.60] I'll give up the one who gave it all. -[2043.60 --> 2048.60] And I'll stand with arms I've won't abandon. -[2048.60 --> 2051.60] So I'll give up the one who gave it all. -[2051.60 --> 2055.60] And I'll stand with arms I've won't abandon. -[2055.60 --> 2061.40] I'll stand with arms high and heart abandoned -[2061.40 --> 2067.84] In all of the blood you gave it all -[2067.84 --> 2073.90] I'll stand as your Lord you surrendered all -[2073.90 --> 2077.68] My hand is yours -[2077.68 --> 2085.30] I'll stand with arms high and heart abandoned -[2085.30 --> 2092.24] In all of the one who gave it all -[2092.24 --> 2098.68] I'll stand my soul Lord you surrendered all -[2098.68 --> 2102.68] I am is yours -[2102.68 --> 2107.40] Please have a seat -[2115.30 --> 2124.68] Good morning everyone -[2124.68 --> 2126.98] Anyone else that doesn't realize what's going on here -[2126.98 --> 2129.42] It's Kids Corner come on up front -[2129.42 --> 2132.00] You knew what it was right away -[2132.00 --> 2133.24] Okay good -[2133.24 --> 2135.32] Alright today -[2135.32 --> 2136.52] Good to see you guys -[2136.52 --> 2139.32] Was everybody at the party yesterday? -[2140.12 --> 2140.82] Was it good? -[2141.38 --> 2141.92] You weren't? -[2142.00 --> 2142.58] Was it good? -[2143.04 --> 2144.14] How many people went swimming? -[2144.14 --> 2147.18] Was the water cold or was it fancy? -[2148.48 --> 2148.88] What? -[2150.08 --> 2151.32] Tax dollars at work -[2151.32 --> 2151.92] That's good -[2151.92 --> 2158.34] Today we are talking about the book of Isaiah in the Bible -[2158.34 --> 2161.64] Does anybody know, have ever heard of the book Isaiah in the Bible? -[2161.86 --> 2162.76] Isaiah you've heard of it? -[2163.32 --> 2163.54] Yeah? -[2164.24 --> 2168.60] Who has an idea of whether it's in the Old Testament or the New Testament in the Bible? -[2168.94 --> 2169.16] Yeah? -[2169.16 --> 2171.94] Do you think it's the New? -[2171.94 --> 2172.42] What do you think? -[2173.00 --> 2174.24] It's in the Old Testament -[2174.24 --> 2183.74] Now when I opened up my book to read the get prepared for this story it said Isaiah and it gave a definition of what his name means -[2183.74 --> 2185.58] You probably don't know what that means -[2185.58 --> 2187.00] Does anybody here name Isaiah? -[2187.46 --> 2189.22] Or a middle name named Isaiah? -[2189.22 --> 2192.50] Isaiah means God to the rescue -[2192.50 --> 2195.36] So this story is going to be a bit about God rescue -[2195.36 --> 2197.48] Doing some rescue work in the Bible -[2197.48 --> 2198.06] Now -[2198.06 --> 2201.72] I was thinking about names for a minute here -[2201.72 --> 2202.46] And I thought -[2202.46 --> 2205.10] Does everybody here know what their name means? -[2206.10 --> 2208.00] You got a pretty good idea what your name means? -[2208.64 --> 2209.64] Zoe what does your name mean? -[2209.64 --> 2215.18] That's right -[2215.18 --> 2216.24] Because I looked up your name -[2216.24 --> 2219.58] Because you're one of my biggest contributors to helping me answer questions here -[2219.58 --> 2221.90] Your name means eternal life or life -[2221.90 --> 2223.22] Do you know what your name means? -[2226.04 --> 2226.60] Uh oh -[2226.60 --> 2229.00] So that probably means not bitter -[2229.00 --> 2230.14] Not bitter, right? -[2230.26 --> 2230.62] Amara -[2230.62 --> 2233.98] I got another one here -[2233.98 --> 2235.40] Is Malachi sitting here right now? -[2235.46 --> 2235.78] Where is he? -[2236.00 --> 2236.66] He's up here -[2236.66 --> 2237.88] Malachi do you know what your name is? -[2237.92 --> 2239.34] Oh and you're Malachi too -[2239.34 --> 2240.10] What does your name mean? -[2242.70 --> 2243.32] That's right -[2243.32 --> 2244.18] Your mom's -[2244.18 --> 2245.46] Your mom's right on this one -[2245.46 --> 2247.50] Your mom should come up here and hang out with us -[2247.50 --> 2247.96] Yeah -[2247.96 --> 2263.82] Good work -[2263.82 --> 2264.78] Nice -[2264.78 --> 2265.48] Now -[2265.48 --> 2267.24] How about some of the old people out there? -[2267.32 --> 2267.60] You want to -[2267.60 --> 2268.16] I have -[2268.16 --> 2268.76] Where's Clem? -[2268.82 --> 2269.18] Where are you? -[2269.18 --> 2269.92] I saw you out there -[2269.92 --> 2270.50] Wave your hand -[2270.50 --> 2270.96] Where is he? -[2271.62 --> 2272.24] Where's Clem? -[2272.80 --> 2273.60] Clem's in the back -[2273.60 --> 2274.00] Clem -[2274.00 --> 2275.66] I'm trying to get your attention -[2275.66 --> 2278.12] See that guy in the very back there? -[2278.94 --> 2280.36] What do you think his name means? -[2282.10 --> 2283.74] Merciful or famous one -[2283.74 --> 2284.86] What are we going with Clem? -[2288.92 --> 2290.02] And somebody else -[2290.02 --> 2290.82] Lena in the back -[2290.82 --> 2291.64] She's just up front -[2291.64 --> 2293.04] Does anybody know what Lena means? -[2293.10 --> 2294.96] It means light or torch -[2294.96 --> 2297.94] But I got another cool name tidbit for you -[2297.94 --> 2300.30] Guess what name is the most popular in this church? -[2301.64 --> 2305.18] If you see anyone around here with a little bit no hair or grey hair -[2305.18 --> 2306.60] Their name probably is -[2306.60 --> 2308.10] John -[2308.10 --> 2311.64] There you go -[2311.64 --> 2313.80] And God means God is gracious -[2313.80 --> 2315.68] So today we're going to learn about Isaiah -[2315.68 --> 2317.74] And his name is God to the rescue -[2317.74 --> 2321.26] So why don't we all stand up and give the blessing -[2321.26 --> 2328.40] All right -[2328.40 --> 2328.98] The -[2328.98 --> 2330.12] Hello -[2330.12 --> 2339.70] Despite the -[2340.74 --> 2342.02] So -[2342.02 --> 2342.42] So -[2342.42 --> 2342.70] So -[2342.70 --> 2346.20] You -[2346.20 --> 2347.28] You -[2349.96 --> 2350.16] You -[2350.18 --> 2351.28] You -[2351.28 --> 2351.72] You -[2351.72 --> 2352.74] You -[2352.74 --> 2354.28] You -[2354.28 --> 2358.30] You -[2358.30 --> 2358.88] You -[2358.88 --> 2358.92] You -[2358.92 --> 2358.96] You -[2358.96 --> 2373.00] hello my name is Eric here I'm one of the elders at Emmanuel here I'll be leading you in prayer -[2373.00 --> 2379.66] please join me in our family church prayer Lord you are a rock and our salvation our fortress -[2379.66 --> 2384.40] and our deliverer we thank you for being our stronghold and our refuge we thank you that we -[2384.40 --> 2391.72] can come as a church community to worship your name we are also thankful the other ways to gather -[2391.72 --> 2398.08] as a church family today the cadets are enjoying a weekend of activities and fun spending time -[2398.08 --> 2403.84] together with the leaders and the fathers we ask that you continue to be with them and traveling -[2403.84 --> 2409.66] mercies on their way home today we also are blessed with the ability to to officially welcome the de -[2409.66 --> 2416.50] winters with the barbecue yesterday your goodness is evident in those community building events we -[2416.50 --> 2422.56] are thankful that we can enjoy them again your faithful can it continues in the life of Lee Louise -[2422.56 --> 2428.86] Riza boss this past week Lord we thank you that we've had seen some small steps towards a recovery -[2428.86 --> 2434.44] we pray for that that this would continue give the doctors the wisdom as they continue to treat her -[2434.44 --> 2439.60] give the family everything that they need while they wait we pray for a miracle that she would -[2439.60 --> 2446.86] recover full with no lasting impact Lord today also we think of Judy Dykstra who's in the hospital -[2446.86 --> 2454.00] today Lord appears to be suffering some sort of virus we ask that you be with the doctors as they run -[2454.00 --> 2459.34] their tests and figure things out and that she may be able to come home soon we also pray for the cool -[2459.34 --> 2465.64] family as they grieve the loss of Leslie's dad Bill Potma we are thankful that the family could be near to -[2465.64 --> 2474.02] him in the last days and know that he knew you as his lord and savior we pray for the peace for the family as -[2474.02 --> 2481.00] they make plans for the memorial service the devastating situation in Texas this past week was a shock to -[2481.00 --> 2488.90] all comfort all those who mourn that the schools the staff the parents the students the whole community be with those in law -[2488.90 --> 2494.72] enforcement who deal with this tragedy we pay for a peace that surpasses all understanding for all those -[2494.72 --> 2501.92] who have been affected many in our community also continue to grieve as well we continue to pray for -[2501.92 --> 2508.34] those who are dealing with the loss of loved ones in our denomination Lord we pray for the sit-in meeting -[2508.34 --> 2514.76] that's occurring here in June 10th to 6 we pray that this meeting be done in person again and we pray for their safe travels -[2514.76 --> 2522.40] the lord is my shepherd I shall not be in want he makes me lie down in green pastures and leaves me beside quiet water and -[2522.40 --> 2523.44] restores my soul -[2523.44 --> 2524.10] amen -[2544.76 --> 2565.24] before we jump into the sermon text I just wanted to take a moment and say thank you to all of you and to those who were involved in planning and preparing and pulling off the community barbecue last night in the welcome event -[2565.24 --> 2578.60] we all recognize that the last year and a half have been strange and weird and not the way we would have liked to spend our life and our time getting to know each other and yet -[2578.60 --> 2586.62] even without last night's event I can say with confidence on behalf of our family that we feel -[2586.62 --> 2594.92] so welcomed and loved and we appreciate all of you very much and we're grateful that we got to acknowledge that last night -[2594.92 --> 2599.14] but we didn't require any of that -[2599.14 --> 2603.02] and I'm also for those of you who -[2603.02 --> 2604.50] wrote cards -[2604.50 --> 2605.86] thank you -[2605.86 --> 2610.02] I'm not a thank you card person this is my thank you card -[2610.02 --> 2615.04] this morning -[2615.04 --> 2617.40] we are going to -[2617.40 --> 2619.16] think about -[2619.16 --> 2620.98] ascension day -[2620.98 --> 2621.78] together -[2621.78 --> 2623.38] now if you are -[2623.38 --> 2624.24] unfamiliar -[2624.24 --> 2629.40] with the the movement of the church year through the Christian calendar -[2629.40 --> 2631.38] or if you -[2631.38 --> 2636.62] are not really a churchgoer and this is your first time in church or you're coming back to church for a while anyway -[2636.62 --> 2637.62] ascension day -[2637.62 --> 2642.68] ascension day is the the day that we remember and -[2642.68 --> 2645.24] reflect on -[2645.24 --> 2653.00] Jesus ascending going back up to heaven to the right hand of the father we say in the apostles creed -[2653.00 --> 2653.98] now -[2653.98 --> 2661.30] ascension day was this past thursday and we had a prayer and praise evening a number of us -[2661.30 --> 2662.54] gathered -[2662.54 --> 2666.70] to mark that day and to reflect on that -[2666.70 --> 2667.60] but -[2667.60 --> 2671.04] what I am mindful of is that -[2671.04 --> 2677.10] in the sort of normal flow of our life and faith together -[2677.10 --> 2678.96] ascension day -[2678.96 --> 2683.80] can easily become that sort of forgotten holiday -[2683.80 --> 2687.62] can easily become that sort of forgotten liturgical -[2687.62 --> 2690.28] part of -[2690.28 --> 2691.24] our worship -[2691.24 --> 2692.32] now -[2692.32 --> 2696.48] we have Christmas and we have Easter and -[2696.48 --> 2700.56] fortunately or unfortunately I'll let you wrestle through that -[2700.56 --> 2704.56] the reality is those two times of year there's a whole bunch of like cultural -[2704.56 --> 2706.90] fanfare right like even if you're not -[2706.90 --> 2710.16] Christian there's things to do and and that's marked -[2710.16 --> 2712.26] none of that happens -[2712.26 --> 2713.88] on ascension day -[2713.88 --> 2716.14] as I was thinking this week -[2716.14 --> 2718.78] perhaps that's why -[2718.78 --> 2722.70] we don't really reflect that often or we don't really think about that -[2722.70 --> 2723.56] very deeply -[2723.56 --> 2724.84] and yet -[2724.84 --> 2726.84] if that's why -[2726.84 --> 2729.14] kind of a sad indicator -[2729.14 --> 2732.64] and so we wanted to be intentional -[2732.64 --> 2734.46] and to think about that because -[2734.46 --> 2736.30] in sort of traditional -[2736.30 --> 2738.46] reformed theology -[2738.46 --> 2740.04] ascension day -[2740.04 --> 2742.22] has actually always been highlighted -[2742.22 --> 2743.54] as the sort of -[2743.54 --> 2745.42] capstone of the ministry -[2745.42 --> 2746.40] of Jesus -[2746.40 --> 2746.82] in fact -[2746.82 --> 2748.46] it's on par with -[2748.46 --> 2750.32] or perhaps even outstrips -[2750.32 --> 2752.34] depending on which theologians you read -[2752.34 --> 2753.46] Christmas and Easter -[2753.46 --> 2755.86] we haven't carried that through -[2755.86 --> 2756.56] and so -[2756.56 --> 2759.92] not with your permission -[2759.92 --> 2761.00] because I'm going to do it regardless -[2761.00 --> 2762.24] but with your grace -[2762.24 --> 2764.92] I want to take just a couple minutes -[2764.92 --> 2765.94] and -[2765.94 --> 2767.68] and undergird -[2767.68 --> 2770.12] a theology of ascension day -[2770.12 --> 2773.14] and so we're going to talk a little bit of theology -[2773.14 --> 2774.16] and historical theology -[2774.16 --> 2776.02] but I just want three minutes of your attention -[2776.02 --> 2776.98] and then we'll -[2776.98 --> 2778.52] dig into our text -[2778.52 --> 2780.56] as this becomes sort of foundational for that -[2780.56 --> 2782.42] so give me your best selves for a moment -[2782.42 --> 2783.32] as we -[2783.32 --> 2784.58] dig into this -[2784.58 --> 2787.96] so we talked about how this is a traditional -[2787.96 --> 2789.24] reformed -[2789.24 --> 2790.58] theological idea -[2790.58 --> 2791.80] and so when I say that -[2791.80 --> 2793.48] we'll just go right to John Calvin -[2793.48 --> 2795.14] because if you quote Calvin in a sermon -[2795.14 --> 2796.22] it's going to be a good one -[2796.22 --> 2799.60] there was more groaning than laughing there -[2799.60 --> 2800.76] appreciate that -[2800.76 --> 2804.46] John Calvin is a -[2804.46 --> 2807.06] 16th century reformer of church -[2807.06 --> 2807.76] he's sort of -[2807.76 --> 2808.74] pivotal for -[2808.74 --> 2811.28] our understanding of how to read the Bible -[2811.28 --> 2812.88] and has shaped who we are -[2812.88 --> 2814.80] as a Christian reformed church -[2814.80 --> 2816.22] in really impactful ways -[2816.22 --> 2817.66] and he says -[2817.66 --> 2819.24] of ascension day -[2819.24 --> 2820.50] first -[2820.50 --> 2822.62] that by his ascension -[2822.62 --> 2824.50] Jesus opened up -[2824.50 --> 2825.40] the access -[2825.40 --> 2826.72] to the heavenly kingdom -[2826.72 --> 2827.98] which Adam -[2827.98 --> 2828.92] had shut -[2828.92 --> 2832.64] and so what he's saying there is -[2832.64 --> 2833.74] because he -[2833.74 --> 2834.58] that is Jesus -[2834.58 --> 2835.52] because Jesus -[2835.52 --> 2836.66] is in heaven -[2836.66 --> 2838.38] as a man -[2838.38 --> 2839.60] an incarnate -[2839.60 --> 2840.46] person -[2840.46 --> 2841.00] right -[2841.00 --> 2842.46] we here and now -[2842.46 --> 2844.04] don't merely have the hope -[2844.04 --> 2844.72] of heaven -[2844.72 --> 2846.42] but we already -[2846.42 --> 2847.60] possess it -[2847.60 --> 2849.52] in our head -[2849.52 --> 2850.20] that is in -[2850.20 --> 2850.92] Jesus -[2850.92 --> 2852.00] who is the head -[2852.00 --> 2852.76] right -[2852.76 --> 2853.22] we -[2853.22 --> 2854.44] are seated -[2854.44 --> 2856.04] in heavenly places -[2856.04 --> 2857.76] humanity -[2857.76 --> 2858.90] fleshliness -[2858.90 --> 2861.00] is already -[2861.00 --> 2862.62] in heaven -[2862.62 --> 2865.04] it's one of the reasons why ascension day -[2865.04 --> 2866.14] is so powerful -[2866.14 --> 2867.32] second -[2867.32 --> 2867.84] Calvin -[2867.84 --> 2868.94] says -[2868.94 --> 2870.96] having entered the temple -[2870.96 --> 2872.38] not made with hands -[2872.38 --> 2873.88] he constantly appears -[2873.88 --> 2874.96] as our advocate -[2874.96 --> 2876.36] and intercessor -[2876.36 --> 2877.62] in the presence -[2877.62 --> 2878.42] of the father -[2878.42 --> 2880.72] now -[2880.72 --> 2882.68] the wrath of God -[2882.68 --> 2883.12] for -[2883.12 --> 2884.04] sin -[2884.04 --> 2885.98] is turned away -[2885.98 --> 2887.16] actively -[2887.16 --> 2889.30] because of what Jesus -[2889.30 --> 2890.56] accomplished on the cross -[2890.56 --> 2892.06] but presently -[2892.06 --> 2893.50] in my life -[2893.50 --> 2893.96] because -[2893.96 --> 2895.38] he is standing -[2895.38 --> 2896.64] in front of the father -[2896.64 --> 2897.72] saying -[2897.72 --> 2898.70] father -[2898.70 --> 2899.94] look at me -[2899.94 --> 2901.28] look at my -[2901.28 --> 2901.98] righteousness -[2901.98 --> 2902.94] look at my -[2902.94 --> 2903.62] perfection -[2903.62 --> 2905.32] such that when the father -[2905.32 --> 2905.76] sees -[2905.76 --> 2906.86] or looks to me -[2906.86 --> 2907.58] he sees -[2907.58 --> 2908.44] Jesus -[2908.44 --> 2910.78] that's because of -[2910.78 --> 2912.12] the ascension -[2912.12 --> 2913.46] possible because of -[2913.46 --> 2914.52] the ascension -[2914.52 --> 2916.42] Calvin goes on -[2916.42 --> 2917.68] he quotes -[2917.68 --> 2918.80] Ephesians 4 -[2918.80 --> 2919.60] verse 8 -[2919.60 --> 2920.14] which says -[2920.14 --> 2920.72] when he -[2920.72 --> 2921.18] Jesus -[2921.18 --> 2922.16] ascended up -[2922.16 --> 2922.80] on high -[2922.80 --> 2923.32] he led -[2923.32 --> 2924.08] captivity -[2924.08 --> 2924.96] captive -[2924.96 --> 2926.14] which is a beautiful phrase -[2926.14 --> 2927.48] and Calvin says -[2927.48 --> 2927.90] of that -[2927.90 --> 2929.24] spoiling his -[2929.24 --> 2930.00] foes -[2930.00 --> 2931.24] he gave gifts -[2931.24 --> 2932.14] to his people -[2932.14 --> 2933.30] and daily -[2933.30 --> 2934.28] loads them -[2934.28 --> 2935.38] with spiritual -[2935.38 --> 2936.50] riches -[2936.50 --> 2937.80] right -[2937.80 --> 2938.40] and what Calvin's -[2938.40 --> 2938.96] point is here -[2938.96 --> 2940.30] because Christ -[2940.30 --> 2940.98] ascended -[2940.98 --> 2941.76] we -[2941.76 --> 2942.64] the church -[2942.64 --> 2943.48] his people -[2943.48 --> 2944.54] are given -[2944.54 --> 2945.34] the Holy -[2945.34 --> 2946.24] Spirit -[2946.24 --> 2947.44] right -[2947.44 --> 2947.84] Jesus -[2947.84 --> 2948.76] as ascended -[2948.76 --> 2949.28] to the right -[2949.28 --> 2950.00] hand of the father -[2950.00 --> 2951.12] along with the father -[2951.12 --> 2952.40] sends the spirit -[2952.40 --> 2953.60] so that we can be -[2953.60 --> 2954.42] quickened -[2954.42 --> 2955.38] to newness -[2955.38 --> 2956.04] of life -[2956.04 --> 2956.76] so that we can be -[2956.76 --> 2957.94] raised from death -[2957.94 --> 2958.60] into life -[2958.60 --> 2959.12] so that we can be -[2959.12 --> 2959.94] brought into -[2959.94 --> 2960.68] holiness -[2960.68 --> 2961.20] so we can be -[2961.20 --> 2962.04] granted grace -[2962.04 --> 2962.88] upon grace -[2962.88 --> 2964.30] so that we can be -[2964.30 --> 2964.92] equipped -[2964.92 --> 2966.14] as a church -[2966.14 --> 2966.90] for a life -[2966.90 --> 2967.52] of mission -[2967.52 --> 2968.80] in the now -[2968.80 --> 2969.92] enthroned -[2969.92 --> 2970.90] kingdom of God -[2970.90 --> 2971.74] and the kingdom -[2971.74 --> 2972.22] of God -[2972.22 --> 2972.66] that has -[2972.66 --> 2974.16] its king -[2974.16 --> 2974.94] seated -[2974.94 --> 2976.16] on the throne -[2976.16 --> 2977.54] Calvin finishes -[2977.54 --> 2978.14] by saying -[2978.14 --> 2979.24] our redemption -[2979.24 --> 2980.00] was fully -[2980.00 --> 2980.82] completely -[2980.82 --> 2981.80] and finished -[2981.80 --> 2983.12] then when Christ -[2983.12 --> 2984.36] did ascend -[2984.36 --> 2985.78] unto the father -[2985.78 --> 2988.00] without ascension -[2988.00 --> 2988.36] day -[2988.36 --> 2989.98] redemption -[2989.98 --> 2990.90] is not complete -[2990.90 --> 2992.38] or finished -[2992.38 --> 2994.18] now if you want -[2994.18 --> 2994.64] to dig even -[2994.64 --> 2995.58] deeper into this -[2995.58 --> 2996.30] the Heidelberg -[2996.30 --> 2996.84] Catechism -[2996.84 --> 2997.60] which is another -[2997.60 --> 2998.70] document that helps -[2998.70 --> 2999.38] us understand -[2999.38 --> 3000.02] who we are -[3000.02 --> 3001.10] question and answer -[3001.10 --> 3001.72] 49 -[3001.72 --> 3003.36] takes these -[3003.36 --> 3004.04] ideas -[3004.04 --> 3004.96] these truths -[3004.96 --> 3006.44] and summarizes -[3006.44 --> 3006.80] them -[3006.80 --> 3008.38] in answer to -[3008.38 --> 3009.02] the question -[3009.02 --> 3010.32] how does Christ's -[3010.32 --> 3010.78] ascension -[3010.78 --> 3012.12] benefit us -[3012.12 --> 3013.14] saying that He's -[3013.14 --> 3013.74] an advocate to -[3013.74 --> 3014.16] the Father -[3014.16 --> 3014.68] that we have -[3014.68 --> 3015.22] our own flesh -[3015.22 --> 3015.66] in heaven -[3015.66 --> 3016.52] and that from -[3016.52 --> 3017.44] there He sends -[3017.44 --> 3018.36] the Holy Spirit -[3018.36 --> 3021.10] okay -[3021.10 --> 3022.78] you made it -[3022.78 --> 3024.58] here's why that -[3024.58 --> 3025.24] matters for us -[3025.24 --> 3025.64] this morning -[3025.64 --> 3027.34] worship -[3027.34 --> 3027.52] worship -[3027.52 --> 3028.34] that is -[3028.34 --> 3028.96] this -[3028.96 --> 3029.50] what we are -[3029.50 --> 3030.08] doing right -[3030.08 --> 3030.50] here -[3030.50 --> 3031.26] and right -[3031.26 --> 3031.50] now -[3031.50 --> 3032.40] this gathering -[3032.40 --> 3033.52] together -[3033.52 --> 3035.70] not only -[3035.70 --> 3037.42] reminds us -[3037.42 --> 3039.64] of who Jesus -[3039.64 --> 3040.46] is and what -[3040.46 --> 3041.40] He has accomplished -[3041.40 --> 3042.24] in the ascension -[3042.24 --> 3044.02] but also -[3044.02 --> 3045.82] invites us -[3045.82 --> 3047.12] to participate -[3047.12 --> 3047.66] in it -[3047.66 --> 3048.36] worship -[3048.36 --> 3049.36] and so -[3049.36 --> 3052.30] what I'm -[3052.30 --> 3052.72] going to say -[3052.72 --> 3053.30] this morning -[3053.30 --> 3055.08] is that there -[3055.08 --> 3056.00] is nothing -[3056.00 --> 3057.28] ordinary -[3057.28 --> 3058.90] about -[3058.90 --> 3059.70] ordinary -[3059.70 --> 3060.44] worship -[3060.44 --> 3063.22] and so take -[3063.22 --> 3063.92] those ideas -[3063.92 --> 3065.48] about ascension -[3065.48 --> 3065.86] day -[3065.86 --> 3067.52] hold the three -[3067.52 --> 3068.10] of those things -[3068.10 --> 3068.68] in your mind -[3068.68 --> 3069.52] but sort of -[3069.52 --> 3069.98] for now -[3069.98 --> 3070.40] at least -[3070.40 --> 3071.00] park them -[3071.00 --> 3071.68] in the back -[3071.68 --> 3072.18] of your brain -[3072.18 --> 3072.50] because we're -[3072.50 --> 3072.86] going to pull -[3072.86 --> 3073.36] that thread -[3073.36 --> 3073.80] back out -[3073.80 --> 3074.72] in the end -[3074.72 --> 3076.34] but hear this -[3076.34 --> 3077.00] there's nothing -[3077.00 --> 3077.78] ordinary -[3077.78 --> 3078.80] about -[3078.80 --> 3079.58] ordinary -[3079.58 --> 3080.70] worship -[3080.70 --> 3082.20] now -[3082.20 --> 3083.22] I realize -[3083.22 --> 3083.56] we might need -[3083.56 --> 3084.04] some clarity -[3084.04 --> 3084.32] there -[3084.32 --> 3084.88] like when I -[3084.88 --> 3085.46] say -[3085.46 --> 3086.26] ordinary -[3086.26 --> 3086.76] worship -[3086.76 --> 3087.38] why am I -[3087.38 --> 3088.06] calling it -[3088.06 --> 3088.64] ordinary -[3088.64 --> 3090.20] because -[3090.20 --> 3091.16] you know -[3091.16 --> 3091.66] someone might -[3091.66 --> 3092.04] ask you -[3092.04 --> 3092.62] how was church -[3092.62 --> 3093.18] today -[3093.18 --> 3094.16] and you go -[3094.16 --> 3094.64] oh you know -[3094.64 --> 3095.78] it was ordinary -[3095.78 --> 3097.36] there was nothing -[3097.36 --> 3098.36] special that happened -[3098.36 --> 3098.70] there was -[3098.70 --> 3099.26] there was no -[3099.26 --> 3099.88] baptisms -[3099.88 --> 3100.46] there was no -[3100.46 --> 3101.64] speaking in tongues -[3101.64 --> 3103.10] old man Tony -[3103.10 --> 3103.82] didn't even say -[3103.82 --> 3104.62] something inappropriate -[3104.62 --> 3107.26] but -[3107.26 --> 3108.70] more than that -[3108.70 --> 3109.80] in again -[3109.80 --> 3110.42] traditional -[3110.42 --> 3111.26] reformed -[3111.26 --> 3111.72] theology -[3111.72 --> 3113.26] we talk about -[3113.26 --> 3113.64] together -[3113.64 --> 3114.68] the ordinary -[3114.68 --> 3116.06] means of grace -[3116.06 --> 3117.82] right -[3117.82 --> 3118.24] the ordinary -[3118.24 --> 3119.26] means of grace -[3119.26 --> 3120.34] being the word -[3120.34 --> 3121.04] and worship -[3121.04 --> 3122.46] and sacrament -[3122.46 --> 3123.66] and we mean -[3123.66 --> 3124.24] ordinary -[3124.24 --> 3125.74] not because -[3125.74 --> 3126.10] they're -[3126.10 --> 3127.30] not extraordinary -[3127.30 --> 3128.04] but because -[3128.04 --> 3128.64] they're regular -[3128.64 --> 3129.86] like we ordinarily -[3129.86 --> 3130.74] do them this way -[3130.74 --> 3133.42] and yet -[3133.42 --> 3135.06] as we talk -[3135.06 --> 3135.68] about worship -[3135.68 --> 3137.40] and as we talk -[3137.40 --> 3138.20] about worship -[3138.20 --> 3138.90] in light of the -[3138.90 --> 3139.40] ascension -[3139.40 --> 3140.76] if your -[3140.76 --> 3141.52] expectations -[3141.52 --> 3142.08] are what -[3142.08 --> 3142.74] of what's -[3142.74 --> 3143.42] happening here -[3143.42 --> 3144.30] in this place -[3144.30 --> 3145.52] are just -[3145.52 --> 3146.04] ordinary -[3146.04 --> 3148.34] you're missing -[3148.34 --> 3148.82] the point -[3148.82 --> 3151.04] we're going to -[3151.04 --> 3151.86] make that point -[3151.86 --> 3153.24] by looking -[3153.24 --> 3154.50] at revelation -[3154.50 --> 3154.88] four -[3154.88 --> 3155.38] and so if you -[3155.38 --> 3156.68] have a bible -[3156.68 --> 3158.36] really invite you -[3158.36 --> 3159.34] to open that up -[3159.34 --> 3159.96] to have it -[3159.96 --> 3160.48] we will have it -[3160.48 --> 3161.06] on the screen -[3161.06 --> 3161.82] but we will flip -[3161.82 --> 3162.46] around in a few -[3162.46 --> 3162.84] places -[3162.84 --> 3164.06] the book of -[3164.06 --> 3164.80] revelation is the -[3164.80 --> 3165.64] last book in the -[3165.64 --> 3166.46] bible so if you -[3166.46 --> 3167.26] just open it -[3167.26 --> 3168.18] like a jewish -[3168.18 --> 3168.80] person from the -[3168.80 --> 3169.44] back you'll find -[3169.44 --> 3170.18] revelation really -[3170.18 --> 3170.52] quick -[3170.52 --> 3172.62] revelation -[3172.62 --> 3173.64] four -[3173.64 --> 3174.84] i'm going to -[3174.84 --> 3175.18] read -[3175.18 --> 3177.00] verse one -[3177.00 --> 3178.34] through eleven -[3178.34 --> 3179.02] to start -[3179.02 --> 3182.86] after this -[3182.86 --> 3184.92] this is john -[3184.92 --> 3186.74] after this -[3186.74 --> 3187.30] i looked -[3187.30 --> 3187.70] and there -[3187.70 --> 3188.30] before me -[3188.30 --> 3188.94] was a door -[3188.94 --> 3190.24] standing -[3190.24 --> 3190.76] open -[3190.76 --> 3191.64] in heaven -[3191.64 --> 3193.02] and the -[3193.02 --> 3193.60] voice i -[3193.60 --> 3193.98] heard -[3193.98 --> 3194.92] first -[3194.92 --> 3195.76] speaking to -[3195.76 --> 3196.00] me -[3196.00 --> 3196.44] like a -[3196.44 --> 3196.70] trumpet -[3196.70 --> 3197.12] said -[3197.12 --> 3198.00] come up -[3198.00 --> 3198.32] here -[3198.32 --> 3198.76] and i -[3198.76 --> 3199.30] will show -[3199.30 --> 3199.56] you -[3199.56 --> 3199.80] what -[3199.80 --> 3200.14] must -[3200.14 --> 3200.40] take -[3200.40 --> 3200.86] place -[3200.86 --> 3201.36] after -[3201.36 --> 3201.78] this -[3201.78 --> 3203.40] and at -[3203.40 --> 3203.66] once -[3203.66 --> 3203.98] i was -[3203.98 --> 3204.36] in the -[3204.36 --> 3204.76] spirit -[3204.76 --> 3205.30] and there -[3205.30 --> 3205.96] before me -[3205.96 --> 3206.38] was a -[3206.38 --> 3206.80] throne -[3206.80 --> 3207.30] in heaven -[3207.30 --> 3207.90] with someone -[3207.90 --> 3208.52] sitting on -[3208.52 --> 3208.70] it -[3208.70 --> 3209.90] and the -[3209.90 --> 3210.30] one who -[3210.30 --> 3211.04] sat there -[3211.04 --> 3211.52] had the -[3211.52 --> 3212.02] appearance -[3212.02 --> 3212.92] of jasper -[3212.92 --> 3214.14] and ruby -[3214.14 --> 3215.66] a rainbow -[3215.66 --> 3216.44] that that -[3216.44 --> 3217.30] shone like -[3217.30 --> 3218.02] an emerald -[3218.02 --> 3218.48] rich -[3218.48 --> 3219.10] encircled -[3219.10 --> 3219.66] the throne -[3219.66 --> 3220.78] surrounding -[3220.78 --> 3221.42] the throne -[3221.42 --> 3222.16] were 24 -[3222.16 --> 3223.30] other thrones -[3223.30 --> 3223.82] and seated -[3223.82 --> 3224.38] on them -[3224.38 --> 3225.08] were 24 -[3225.08 --> 3226.06] elders -[3226.06 --> 3227.22] and they -[3227.22 --> 3227.74] were dressed -[3227.74 --> 3228.30] in white -[3228.30 --> 3228.66] and had -[3228.66 --> 3229.28] crowns of -[3229.28 --> 3229.78] gold on -[3229.78 --> 3230.22] their heads -[3230.22 --> 3231.30] and from -[3231.30 --> 3231.86] the throne -[3231.86 --> 3232.64] came flashes -[3232.64 --> 3233.34] of lightning -[3233.34 --> 3234.18] rumblings -[3234.18 --> 3234.86] and peals -[3234.86 --> 3235.38] of thunder -[3235.38 --> 3236.28] and in front -[3236.28 --> 3236.94] of the throne -[3236.94 --> 3237.98] seven lamps -[3237.98 --> 3238.74] were blazing -[3238.74 --> 3239.54] and these -[3239.54 --> 3240.12] are the seven -[3240.12 --> 3241.16] spirits of god -[3241.16 --> 3242.10] and also -[3242.10 --> 3242.64] in front -[3242.64 --> 3243.30] of the throne -[3243.30 --> 3243.72] there was -[3243.72 --> 3244.16] what looked -[3244.16 --> 3245.12] like a sea -[3245.12 --> 3246.12] of glass -[3246.12 --> 3247.58] clear as -[3247.58 --> 3248.02] crystal -[3248.02 --> 3249.88] and in the -[3249.88 --> 3250.28] center -[3250.28 --> 3251.48] around the -[3251.48 --> 3251.86] throne -[3251.86 --> 3252.68] were four -[3252.68 --> 3253.42] living creatures -[3253.42 --> 3254.50] and they -[3254.50 --> 3254.94] were covered -[3254.94 --> 3255.56] with eyes -[3255.56 --> 3256.14] in front -[3256.14 --> 3256.98] and in back -[3256.98 --> 3257.76] and the first -[3257.76 --> 3258.34] living creature -[3258.34 --> 3259.22] was like a lion -[3259.22 --> 3260.00] the second -[3260.00 --> 3261.04] was like an ox -[3261.04 --> 3261.72] and the third -[3261.72 --> 3262.42] had the face -[3262.42 --> 3263.52] like a man -[3263.52 --> 3264.18] and the fourth -[3264.18 --> 3264.74] was like a -[3264.74 --> 3265.50] flying eagle -[3265.50 --> 3267.10] and each -[3267.10 --> 3267.64] of the four -[3267.64 --> 3268.28] living creatures -[3268.28 --> 3269.28] had six wings -[3269.28 --> 3270.02] and was covered -[3270.02 --> 3270.62] with eyes -[3270.62 --> 3271.42] all around -[3271.42 --> 3272.44] even under -[3272.44 --> 3273.20] its wings -[3273.20 --> 3275.12] day and night -[3275.12 --> 3275.62] they never -[3275.62 --> 3276.48] stopped saying -[3276.48 --> 3277.08] holy -[3277.08 --> 3277.78] holy -[3277.78 --> 3278.46] holy -[3278.46 --> 3279.58] is the lord -[3279.58 --> 3280.54] god almighty -[3280.54 --> 3281.28] who was -[3281.28 --> 3282.20] and is -[3282.20 --> 3282.76] and is -[3282.76 --> 3283.24] to come -[3283.24 --> 3284.98] and whenever -[3284.98 --> 3285.44] the living -[3285.44 --> 3285.88] creatures -[3285.88 --> 3286.76] give glory -[3286.76 --> 3287.46] honor -[3287.46 --> 3288.08] and thanks -[3288.08 --> 3288.58] to him -[3288.58 --> 3289.14] who sits -[3289.14 --> 3289.76] on the throne -[3289.76 --> 3290.44] and who lives -[3290.44 --> 3290.88] forever -[3290.88 --> 3291.38] and ever -[3291.38 --> 3292.28] the 24 -[3292.28 --> 3292.80] elders -[3292.80 --> 3293.62] fall down -[3293.62 --> 3294.32] before him -[3294.32 --> 3294.76] who sits -[3294.76 --> 3295.32] on the throne -[3295.32 --> 3296.04] and worship -[3296.04 --> 3296.52] him -[3296.52 --> 3297.40] who lives -[3297.40 --> 3297.90] forever -[3297.90 --> 3298.98] and ever -[3298.98 --> 3300.08] they lay -[3300.08 --> 3300.94] their crowns -[3300.94 --> 3301.76] before the throne -[3301.76 --> 3302.50] and they say -[3302.50 --> 3304.18] you are worthy -[3304.18 --> 3305.26] oh lord -[3305.26 --> 3306.18] our lord -[3306.18 --> 3307.16] and god -[3307.16 --> 3308.28] to receive glory -[3308.28 --> 3309.10] and honor -[3309.10 --> 3309.96] and power -[3309.96 --> 3311.32] for you created -[3311.32 --> 3311.94] all things -[3311.94 --> 3313.18] and by your -[3313.18 --> 3313.64] will -[3313.64 --> 3314.96] they were created -[3314.96 --> 3315.96] and have -[3315.96 --> 3316.64] their -[3316.64 --> 3317.66] being -[3317.66 --> 3320.06] this is the word -[3320.06 --> 3320.48] of the lord -[3320.48 --> 3326.42] now i know -[3326.42 --> 3328.08] that whenever -[3328.08 --> 3330.28] we open -[3330.28 --> 3330.72] the book -[3330.72 --> 3331.32] of revelation -[3331.32 --> 3332.00] or whenever -[3332.00 --> 3332.66] maybe you do -[3332.66 --> 3333.12] that in your -[3333.12 --> 3333.64] devotions -[3333.64 --> 3334.00] or whenever -[3334.00 --> 3334.48] a preacher -[3334.48 --> 3335.56] does that -[3335.56 --> 3337.44] there's a little -[3337.44 --> 3338.04] bit of -[3338.04 --> 3338.74] like -[3338.74 --> 3339.56] i'll say -[3339.56 --> 3340.58] trepidation -[3340.58 --> 3341.34] like what -[3341.34 --> 3341.72] are we gonna -[3341.72 --> 3342.32] get into -[3342.32 --> 3343.24] and there's a -[3343.24 --> 3343.72] little bit of -[3343.72 --> 3344.36] like man -[3344.36 --> 3345.00] that's really -[3345.00 --> 3345.40] weird -[3345.40 --> 3346.78] and i just -[3346.78 --> 3347.10] want to say -[3347.10 --> 3347.46] yes -[3347.46 --> 3349.24] that's right -[3349.24 --> 3350.06] it is really -[3350.06 --> 3350.36] weird -[3350.36 --> 3351.24] but what the -[3351.24 --> 3351.64] book of -[3351.64 --> 3352.16] revelation -[3352.16 --> 3353.30] is doing -[3353.30 --> 3354.30] is inviting -[3354.30 --> 3354.82] us -[3354.82 --> 3355.62] into -[3355.62 --> 3356.82] a picture -[3356.82 --> 3360.16] it's inviting -[3360.16 --> 3360.94] us into a -[3360.94 --> 3361.32] picture -[3361.32 --> 3362.84] of the world -[3362.84 --> 3363.80] as it -[3363.80 --> 3364.60] is -[3364.60 --> 3365.82] a picture -[3365.82 --> 3366.36] of what is -[3366.36 --> 3366.96] happening -[3366.96 --> 3368.36] right then -[3368.36 --> 3369.54] and right now -[3369.54 --> 3370.50] and in parts -[3370.50 --> 3370.96] yet too -[3370.96 --> 3371.56] what will -[3371.56 --> 3372.32] happen -[3372.32 --> 3373.54] a picture -[3373.54 --> 3374.86] given to -[3374.86 --> 3376.16] those of us -[3376.16 --> 3377.02] who have -[3377.02 --> 3377.84] the eyes -[3377.84 --> 3378.50] to see -[3378.50 --> 3379.04] and the -[3379.04 --> 3379.44] ears -[3379.44 --> 3380.40] to hear -[3380.40 --> 3383.24] and in a -[3383.24 --> 3383.60] world -[3383.60 --> 3384.72] and time -[3384.72 --> 3385.92] when our -[3385.92 --> 3386.46] eyes -[3386.46 --> 3387.38] and ears -[3387.38 --> 3388.20] and hearts -[3388.20 --> 3389.58] are inundated -[3389.58 --> 3390.44] with all sorts -[3390.44 --> 3391.20] of messages -[3391.20 --> 3392.48] or narratives -[3392.48 --> 3393.22] and stories -[3393.22 --> 3393.66] all sorts -[3393.66 --> 3394.24] of ideas -[3394.24 --> 3395.16] or philosophies -[3395.16 --> 3395.94] or social -[3395.94 --> 3396.68] constructs -[3396.68 --> 3397.46] or social -[3397.46 --> 3398.36] imaginaries -[3398.36 --> 3400.62] we need -[3400.62 --> 3401.84] to see -[3401.84 --> 3402.90] more clearly -[3402.90 --> 3404.86] right we need -[3404.86 --> 3405.86] truth in the -[3405.86 --> 3406.40] midst of all -[3406.40 --> 3407.02] these sort -[3407.02 --> 3407.60] of competing -[3407.60 --> 3408.22] ideas -[3408.22 --> 3409.54] and falsehoods -[3409.54 --> 3410.14] we need -[3410.14 --> 3410.84] reality -[3410.84 --> 3411.54] in the -[3411.54 --> 3412.36] midst of -[3412.36 --> 3413.10] perception -[3413.10 --> 3414.06] we need -[3414.06 --> 3414.76] revelation -[3414.76 --> 3415.66] in the midst -[3415.66 --> 3416.38] of assumptions -[3416.38 --> 3418.26] that's what -[3418.26 --> 3418.70] the book of -[3418.70 --> 3419.16] revelation -[3419.16 --> 3420.66] wants for us -[3420.66 --> 3422.04] that's what -[3422.04 --> 3422.44] the book of -[3422.44 --> 3422.78] revelation -[3422.78 --> 3423.38] does -[3423.38 --> 3424.68] in fact -[3424.68 --> 3426.28] in the -[3426.28 --> 3426.72] bible -[3426.72 --> 3428.44] and beyond -[3428.44 --> 3429.02] outside the -[3429.02 --> 3429.28] bible -[3429.28 --> 3429.78] from this -[3429.78 --> 3430.24] time too -[3430.24 --> 3430.66] there's a -[3430.66 --> 3431.58] whole genre -[3431.58 --> 3432.32] of literature -[3432.32 --> 3433.58] that's supposed -[3433.58 --> 3433.96] to do -[3433.96 --> 3434.30] this -[3434.30 --> 3435.58] it's called -[3435.58 --> 3436.86] apocalyptic -[3436.86 --> 3437.92] literature -[3437.92 --> 3439.18] now -[3439.18 --> 3440.68] many of us -[3440.68 --> 3442.28] maybe some -[3442.28 --> 3442.64] of you of a -[3442.64 --> 3443.52] particular generation -[3443.52 --> 3444.24] right whenever -[3444.24 --> 3444.68] you hear -[3444.68 --> 3445.74] apocalyptic -[3445.74 --> 3446.62] you think of -[3446.62 --> 3447.58] apocalypse now -[3447.58 --> 3448.54] and your mind -[3448.54 --> 3449.02] goes somewhere -[3449.02 --> 3449.66] else that's not -[3449.66 --> 3449.88] what we're -[3449.88 --> 3450.44] talking about -[3450.44 --> 3452.56] but when we -[3452.56 --> 3453.44] hear apocalyptic -[3453.44 --> 3454.36] maybe you do -[3454.36 --> 3454.78] think about -[3454.78 --> 3455.28] destruction -[3455.28 --> 3456.36] right or the -[3456.36 --> 3457.38] end times -[3457.38 --> 3457.82] kind of -[3457.82 --> 3458.62] cataclysm -[3458.62 --> 3459.04] we think of -[3459.04 --> 3459.38] the end of -[3459.38 --> 3459.80] the world -[3459.80 --> 3461.52] and in the -[3461.52 --> 3462.36] modern history -[3462.36 --> 3462.76] of the -[3462.76 --> 3463.26] christian -[3463.26 --> 3463.62] church -[3463.62 --> 3464.84] we've kind -[3464.84 --> 3465.18] of just -[3465.18 --> 3465.72] begun to -[3465.72 --> 3466.56] assume that -[3466.56 --> 3467.04] meaning -[3467.04 --> 3468.20] for ourselves -[3468.20 --> 3470.54] but that's -[3470.54 --> 3471.24] not what -[3471.24 --> 3471.92] at least -[3471.92 --> 3472.46] that's not -[3472.46 --> 3472.98] all -[3472.98 --> 3474.20] what the -[3474.20 --> 3474.50] bible -[3474.50 --> 3475.16] means -[3475.16 --> 3475.82] when it -[3475.82 --> 3476.94] uses -[3476.94 --> 3477.54] when the -[3477.54 --> 3478.16] authors who -[3478.16 --> 3478.74] wrote the -[3478.74 --> 3479.52] bible use -[3479.52 --> 3480.58] apocalyptic -[3480.58 --> 3481.56] stylings -[3481.56 --> 3482.12] or write -[3482.12 --> 3482.64] in this -[3482.64 --> 3483.30] way -[3483.30 --> 3485.54] in many -[3485.54 --> 3485.86] ways -[3485.86 --> 3486.50] what the -[3486.50 --> 3487.80] apocalyptic -[3487.80 --> 3488.58] literature -[3488.58 --> 3489.16] is -[3489.16 --> 3490.04] translates -[3490.04 --> 3490.64] from greek -[3490.64 --> 3491.02] to the -[3491.02 --> 3491.20] word -[3491.20 --> 3491.76] revelation -[3491.76 --> 3492.52] which is -[3492.52 --> 3492.88] where that -[3492.88 --> 3493.40] title comes -[3493.40 --> 3493.62] from -[3493.62 --> 3495.04] is a -[3495.04 --> 3495.60] lens -[3495.60 --> 3496.02] or a -[3496.02 --> 3496.26] means -[3496.26 --> 3496.66] by which -[3496.66 --> 3497.64] to see -[3497.64 --> 3500.16] what is -[3500.16 --> 3500.92] and what -[3500.92 --> 3501.70] isn't -[3501.70 --> 3502.30] or to put -[3502.30 --> 3502.66] it another -[3502.66 --> 3502.98] way -[3502.98 --> 3503.94] we've gotten -[3503.94 --> 3504.48] so used -[3504.48 --> 3505.08] to seeing -[3505.08 --> 3505.76] things -[3505.76 --> 3506.88] and certain -[3506.88 --> 3507.40] things -[3507.40 --> 3507.70] that we -[3507.70 --> 3508.24] don't see -[3508.24 --> 3508.60] them -[3508.60 --> 3509.36] anymore -[3509.36 --> 3510.30] right -[3510.30 --> 3511.54] we've got -[3511.54 --> 3511.96] so used -[3511.96 --> 3512.46] to doing -[3512.46 --> 3512.88] certain -[3512.88 --> 3513.28] things -[3513.28 --> 3513.52] that we -[3513.52 --> 3513.96] don't think -[3513.96 --> 3514.46] about doing -[3514.46 --> 3514.80] them -[3514.80 --> 3515.38] anymore -[3515.38 --> 3515.84] we just -[3515.84 --> 3516.38] do them -[3516.38 --> 3516.64] this is -[3516.64 --> 3516.92] just the -[3516.92 --> 3517.32] way life -[3517.32 --> 3517.68] is -[3517.68 --> 3518.28] this is -[3518.28 --> 3519.14] the way -[3519.14 --> 3519.92] everything -[3519.92 --> 3520.90] is -[3520.90 --> 3523.20] we don't -[3523.20 --> 3523.58] see -[3523.58 --> 3524.44] not because -[3524.44 --> 3524.80] we don't -[3524.80 --> 3525.26] look -[3525.26 --> 3526.14] right -[3526.14 --> 3527.38] we don't -[3527.38 --> 3527.72] see -[3527.72 --> 3528.22] even when -[3528.22 --> 3528.54] we're -[3528.54 --> 3528.78] looking -[3528.78 --> 3529.36] right at -[3529.36 --> 3529.54] it -[3529.54 --> 3529.88] because -[3529.88 --> 3530.46] there's -[3530.46 --> 3530.64] just -[3530.64 --> 3531.02] nothing -[3531.02 --> 3532.34] to see -[3532.34 --> 3533.38] because -[3533.38 --> 3533.58] it's -[3533.58 --> 3533.82] already -[3533.82 --> 3534.30] everything -[3534.30 --> 3534.66] it's -[3534.66 --> 3535.04] it's -[3535.04 --> 3535.28] already -[3535.28 --> 3535.76] everywhere -[3535.76 --> 3536.84] I've -[3536.84 --> 3537.64] used this -[3537.64 --> 3538.04] illustration -[3538.04 --> 3538.78] before -[3538.78 --> 3539.42] in other -[3539.42 --> 3539.90] contexts -[3539.90 --> 3540.18] and so -[3540.18 --> 3540.42] if you've -[3540.42 --> 3540.64] heard it -[3540.64 --> 3540.90] from me -[3540.90 --> 3541.32] take it -[3541.32 --> 3541.54] as a -[3541.54 --> 3541.84] reminder -[3541.84 --> 3542.18] but it -[3542.18 --> 3542.40] comes -[3542.40 --> 3542.68] from -[3542.68 --> 3544.18] David -[3544.18 --> 3544.70] Foster -[3544.70 --> 3545.08] Wallace -[3545.08 --> 3546.74] and he -[3546.74 --> 3547.04] talks -[3547.04 --> 3547.38] about -[3547.38 --> 3547.94] two -[3547.94 --> 3548.54] young -[3548.54 --> 3549.02] fish -[3549.02 --> 3549.30] who -[3549.30 --> 3549.50] are -[3549.50 --> 3550.04] swimming -[3550.04 --> 3550.60] along -[3550.60 --> 3551.10] together -[3551.10 --> 3551.82] beside -[3551.82 --> 3552.08] each -[3552.08 --> 3552.34] other -[3552.34 --> 3553.16] and they -[3553.16 --> 3553.42] meet -[3553.42 --> 3553.92] an older -[3553.92 --> 3554.30] fish -[3554.30 --> 3554.66] who is -[3554.66 --> 3554.90] swimming -[3554.90 --> 3555.44] towards -[3555.44 --> 3555.74] them -[3555.74 --> 3556.30] and the -[3556.30 --> 3556.60] older -[3556.60 --> 3556.94] fish -[3556.94 --> 3557.38] nods -[3557.38 --> 3557.60] at the -[3557.60 --> 3557.76] two -[3557.76 --> 3558.00] little -[3558.00 --> 3558.32] fish -[3558.32 --> 3558.58] and he -[3558.58 --> 3558.78] says -[3558.78 --> 3559.30] morning -[3559.30 --> 3559.68] boys -[3559.68 --> 3560.02] how's -[3560.02 --> 3560.16] the -[3560.16 --> 3560.48] water -[3560.48 --> 3562.10] and like -[3562.10 --> 3562.60] you know -[3562.60 --> 3562.98] youth -[3562.98 --> 3563.46] looking at -[3563.46 --> 3563.70] an old -[3563.70 --> 3564.00] person -[3564.00 --> 3564.28] or want -[3564.28 --> 3564.54] to do -[3564.54 --> 3564.88] they kind -[3564.88 --> 3565.06] of go -[3565.06 --> 3565.48] hmm -[3565.48 --> 3566.24] and they -[3566.24 --> 3566.56] just sort -[3566.56 --> 3566.88] of swim -[3566.88 --> 3567.24] away -[3567.24 --> 3567.96] eventually -[3567.96 --> 3568.32] one of -[3568.32 --> 3568.42] them -[3568.42 --> 3568.72] turns -[3568.72 --> 3569.06] to the -[3569.06 --> 3569.24] other -[3569.24 --> 3569.52] and he -[3569.52 --> 3570.04] says -[3570.04 --> 3570.30] to the -[3570.30 --> 3570.42] other -[3570.42 --> 3570.60] young -[3570.60 --> 3570.82] fish -[3570.82 --> 3570.92] he -[3570.92 --> 3571.08] goes -[3575.08 --> 3575.64] point -[3575.64 --> 3576.06] is -[3576.06 --> 3576.94] they -[3576.94 --> 3577.26] swim -[3577.26 --> 3577.46] in -[3577.46 --> 3577.68] it -[3577.68 --> 3578.30] so -[3578.30 --> 3578.40] they -[3578.40 --> 3578.52] don't -[3578.52 --> 3578.70] know -[3578.70 --> 3578.92] it -[3578.92 --> 3579.80] that -[3579.80 --> 3580.02] just -[3580.02 --> 3580.50] is -[3580.50 --> 3581.44] reality -[3581.44 --> 3582.46] right -[3582.46 --> 3582.92] we -[3582.92 --> 3583.26] need -[3583.26 --> 3583.46] to -[3583.46 --> 3583.84] become -[3583.84 --> 3584.36] aware -[3584.36 --> 3584.62] of -[3584.62 --> 3584.78] the -[3584.78 --> 3585.16] water -[3585.16 --> 3586.18] right -[3586.18 --> 3586.32] the -[3586.32 --> 3586.56] things -[3586.56 --> 3586.68] that -[3586.68 --> 3586.78] we -[3586.78 --> 3586.92] are -[3586.92 --> 3587.26] blind -[3587.26 --> 3587.64] to -[3587.64 --> 3588.60] precisely -[3588.60 --> 3589.50] because -[3589.50 --> 3589.80] they're -[3589.80 --> 3590.08] just -[3590.08 --> 3590.60] everywhere -[3590.60 --> 3590.94] because -[3590.94 --> 3591.18] it's -[3591.18 --> 3591.42] just -[3591.42 --> 3591.82] the -[3591.82 --> 3591.94] way -[3591.94 --> 3592.06] it -[3592.06 --> 3592.28] is -[3592.28 --> 3592.52] we -[3592.52 --> 3592.70] need -[3592.70 --> 3592.84] to -[3592.84 --> 3593.30] see -[3593.30 --> 3593.96] the -[3593.96 --> 3594.30] water -[3594.30 --> 3594.50] and -[3594.50 --> 3594.60] we -[3594.60 --> 3594.72] need -[3594.72 --> 3594.86] to -[3594.86 --> 3595.16] see -[3595.16 --> 3595.38] how -[3595.38 --> 3595.56] we've -[3595.56 --> 3595.70] been -[3595.70 --> 3596.00] swimming -[3596.00 --> 3596.18] in -[3596.18 --> 3596.28] it -[3596.28 --> 3596.42] in -[3596.42 --> 3596.56] our -[3596.56 --> 3597.22] entire -[3597.22 --> 3598.10] lives -[3598.10 --> 3598.62] and -[3598.62 --> 3599.64] apocalyptic -[3599.64 --> 3600.42] literature -[3600.42 --> 3600.80] like -[3600.80 --> 3600.96] the -[3600.96 --> 3601.08] book -[3601.08 --> 3601.22] of -[3601.22 --> 3601.62] revelation -[3601.62 --> 3601.96] is -[3601.96 --> 3602.38] intended -[3602.38 --> 3603.06] to -[3603.06 --> 3603.26] make -[3603.26 --> 3603.46] you -[3603.46 --> 3603.86] aware -[3603.86 --> 3604.38] of -[3604.38 --> 3604.52] the -[3604.52 --> 3604.82] water -[3604.82 --> 3608.12] what -[3608.12 --> 3608.34] I'm -[3608.34 --> 3609.00] talking -[3609.00 --> 3609.26] about -[3609.26 --> 3609.44] here -[3609.44 --> 3609.58] is -[3609.58 --> 3609.74] something -[3609.74 --> 3610.30] that -[3610.30 --> 3610.70] a -[3610.70 --> 3611.14] Christian -[3611.14 --> 3611.78] philosopher -[3611.78 --> 3612.90] by the -[3612.90 --> 3613.08] name -[3613.08 --> 3613.20] of -[3613.20 --> 3613.42] Jamie -[3613.42 --> 3613.86] Smith -[3613.86 --> 3614.64] he's -[3614.64 --> 3614.80] at -[3614.80 --> 3615.10] Calvin -[3615.10 --> 3615.62] University -[3615.62 --> 3616.02] he -[3616.02 --> 3616.82] picks up -[3616.82 --> 3617.02] this -[3617.02 --> 3617.32] point -[3617.32 --> 3617.56] and he -[3617.56 --> 3617.70] does -[3617.70 --> 3617.86] so -[3617.86 --> 3618.08] really -[3618.08 --> 3618.40] well -[3618.40 --> 3618.58] in -[3618.58 --> 3618.70] a -[3618.70 --> 3618.98] book -[3618.98 --> 3619.68] called -[3619.68 --> 3619.84] you -[3619.84 --> 3620.04] are -[3620.04 --> 3620.22] what -[3620.22 --> 3620.32] you -[3620.32 --> 3620.64] love -[3620.64 --> 3621.92] especially -[3621.92 --> 3622.18] the -[3622.18 --> 3622.46] second -[3622.46 --> 3622.96] chapter -[3622.96 --> 3624.00] it's -[3624.00 --> 3624.28] titled -[3624.28 --> 3624.50] you -[3624.50 --> 3624.76] might -[3624.76 --> 3624.98] not -[3624.98 --> 3625.26] love -[3625.26 --> 3625.42] what -[3625.42 --> 3625.54] you -[3625.54 --> 3625.82] think -[3625.82 --> 3626.44] learning -[3626.44 --> 3626.68] to -[3626.68 --> 3626.94] read -[3626.94 --> 3627.38] secular -[3627.38 --> 3627.98] liturgies -[3627.98 --> 3630.22] he -[3630.22 --> 3630.42] goes -[3630.42 --> 3630.68] on to -[3630.68 --> 3630.88] say -[3630.88 --> 3631.10] that -[3631.22 --> 3631.68] seeing -[3631.68 --> 3631.98] our -[3631.98 --> 3632.44] world -[3632.44 --> 3632.80] and -[3632.80 --> 3633.38] culture -[3633.38 --> 3634.34] in a -[3634.34 --> 3634.56] way -[3634.56 --> 3634.82] that -[3634.82 --> 3635.36] helps -[3635.36 --> 3635.72] us -[3635.72 --> 3636.06] to -[3636.06 --> 3637.08] recognize -[3637.08 --> 3638.14] the -[3638.14 --> 3638.54] water -[3638.54 --> 3638.90] as -[3638.90 --> 3639.36] water -[3639.36 --> 3640.12] sort -[3640.12 --> 3640.28] of -[3640.28 --> 3640.92] requires -[3640.92 --> 3641.36] a -[3641.36 --> 3641.66] wake -[3641.66 --> 3641.82] up -[3641.82 --> 3642.12] call -[3642.12 --> 3643.24] right -[3643.24 --> 3643.60] a -[3643.60 --> 3643.96] shock -[3643.96 --> 3644.18] to -[3644.18 --> 3644.38] the -[3644.38 --> 3644.74] senses -[3644.74 --> 3645.10] that -[3645.10 --> 3645.98] makes -[3645.98 --> 3646.30] you -[3646.30 --> 3646.80] shake -[3646.80 --> 3647.00] your -[3647.00 --> 3647.40] heads -[3647.40 --> 3647.72] and -[3647.72 --> 3648.28] see -[3648.28 --> 3648.78] past -[3648.78 --> 3649.02] all -[3649.02 --> 3649.20] the -[3649.20 --> 3649.82] glitz -[3649.82 --> 3650.00] and -[3650.00 --> 3650.12] the -[3650.12 --> 3650.42] glam -[3650.42 --> 3650.62] and -[3650.62 --> 3650.82] the -[3650.82 --> 3651.40] easily -[3651.40 --> 3652.28] distracting -[3652.28 --> 3653.46] to -[3653.46 --> 3653.76] borrow -[3653.76 --> 3654.90] another -[3654.90 --> 3655.48] cultural -[3655.48 --> 3655.88] phenomenon -[3655.88 --> 3656.24] but this -[3656.24 --> 3656.40] time -[3656.40 --> 3656.56] from -[3656.56 --> 3656.70] the -[3656.70 --> 3657.04] 90s -[3657.04 --> 3657.50] what -[3657.50 --> 3657.62] we -[3657.62 --> 3657.78] need -[3657.78 --> 3657.88] to -[3657.88 --> 3658.10] do -[3658.10 --> 3658.26] is -[3658.26 --> 3658.38] be -[3658.38 --> 3658.58] made -[3658.58 --> 3658.82] aware -[3658.82 --> 3658.94] of -[3658.94 --> 3659.08] the -[3659.08 --> 3659.58] matrix -[3659.58 --> 3660.54] that -[3660.54 --> 3660.66] we're -[3660.66 --> 3660.88] living -[3660.88 --> 3661.12] in -[3661.12 --> 3661.94] now -[3661.94 --> 3662.06] that -[3662.06 --> 3662.20] went -[3662.20 --> 3662.44] over -[3662.44 --> 3662.66] some -[3662.66 --> 3662.76] of -[3662.76 --> 3662.86] your -[3662.86 --> 3663.12] heads -[3663.12 --> 3663.34] and -[3663.34 --> 3663.60] some -[3663.60 --> 3663.70] of -[3663.70 --> 3663.80] you -[3663.80 --> 3663.90] are -[3663.90 --> 3664.10] like -[3664.10 --> 3664.32] I've -[3664.32 --> 3664.48] never -[3664.48 --> 3665.20] anyway -[3665.20 --> 3666.56] you need -[3666.56 --> 3666.76] to be -[3666.76 --> 3666.92] made -[3666.92 --> 3667.30] aware -[3667.30 --> 3667.92] that -[3667.92 --> 3668.24] this -[3668.24 --> 3668.58] is -[3668.58 --> 3668.78] the -[3668.78 --> 3669.12] water -[3669.12 --> 3669.68] we're -[3669.68 --> 3669.92] in -[3669.92 --> 3670.88] the -[3670.88 --> 3671.14] Bible -[3671.14 --> 3671.44] does -[3671.44 --> 3671.68] this -[3671.68 --> 3671.84] with -[3671.84 --> 3672.44] apocalyptic -[3672.44 --> 3672.96] literature -[3672.96 --> 3674.18] and -[3674.18 --> 3674.36] so -[3674.36 --> 3674.64] Smith -[3674.64 --> 3675.00] writes -[3675.00 --> 3675.82] he -[3675.82 --> 3676.04] says -[3676.04 --> 3676.42] the -[3676.42 --> 3676.92] strange -[3676.92 --> 3677.40] pages -[3677.40 --> 3677.64] of -[3677.64 --> 3678.12] Daniel -[3678.12 --> 3678.46] and -[3678.46 --> 3678.60] the -[3678.60 --> 3678.86] book -[3678.86 --> 3679.12] of -[3679.12 --> 3679.62] revelation -[3679.62 --> 3680.24] tries -[3680.24 --> 3680.48] to -[3680.48 --> 3680.64] get -[3680.64 --> 3680.82] us -[3680.82 --> 3681.02] to -[3681.02 --> 3681.38] see -[3681.38 --> 3681.66] or -[3681.66 --> 3681.84] to -[3681.84 --> 3682.08] see -[3682.08 --> 3682.58] through -[3682.58 --> 3683.32] the -[3683.32 --> 3684.08] empires -[3684.08 --> 3684.38] that -[3684.38 --> 3685.00] constitute -[3685.00 --> 3685.46] our -[3685.46 --> 3686.34] environment -[3686.34 --> 3686.72] in -[3686.72 --> 3686.98] order -[3686.98 --> 3687.22] to -[3690.66 --> 3691.28] apocalyptic -[3691.28 --> 3691.86] literature -[3691.86 --> 3692.22] is -[3692.22 --> 3692.56] not -[3692.56 --> 3693.46] prediction -[3693.46 --> 3694.10] or -[3694.10 --> 3694.24] at least -[3694.24 --> 3694.42] not -[3694.42 --> 3694.80] only -[3694.80 --> 3695.32] prediction -[3695.32 --> 3695.74] but -[3695.74 --> 3696.84] unmasking -[3696.84 --> 3697.36] and -[3697.36 --> 3698.32] unveiling -[3698.32 --> 3698.62] the -[3698.62 --> 3699.22] realities -[3699.22 --> 3699.66] around -[3699.66 --> 3699.94] us -[3699.94 --> 3700.16] for -[3700.16 --> 3700.46] what -[3700.46 --> 3701.00] they -[3701.00 --> 3701.72] are -[3701.72 --> 3703.94] a -[3703.94 --> 3704.10] good -[3704.10 --> 3704.22] way -[3704.22 --> 3704.36] to -[3704.36 --> 3704.66] picture -[3704.66 --> 3705.04] this -[3705.04 --> 3705.18] in -[3705.18 --> 3705.30] your -[3705.30 --> 3705.72] minds -[3705.72 --> 3707.04] and -[3707.04 --> 3707.18] this -[3707.18 --> 3707.28] is -[3707.28 --> 3707.48] also -[3707.48 --> 3707.70] from -[3707.70 --> 3708.06] Smith -[3708.06 --> 3708.64] is -[3708.64 --> 3709.56] vertical -[3709.56 --> 3710.32] louvered -[3710.32 --> 3711.06] blinds -[3711.06 --> 3712.28] now -[3712.28 --> 3712.50] these -[3712.50 --> 3712.70] sort -[3712.70 --> 3712.78] of -[3712.78 --> 3712.90] went -[3712.90 --> 3713.04] out -[3713.04 --> 3713.18] of -[3713.18 --> 3713.50] style -[3713.50 --> 3713.92] a -[3713.92 --> 3714.10] few -[3714.10 --> 3714.34] years -[3714.34 --> 3714.52] ago -[3714.52 --> 3714.68] so -[3714.68 --> 3714.76] I -[3714.76 --> 3714.84] don't -[3714.84 --> 3714.94] know -[3714.94 --> 3715.04] how -[3715.04 --> 3715.18] many -[3715.18 --> 3715.30] of -[3715.30 --> 3715.44] you -[3715.44 --> 3716.44] have -[3716.44 --> 3716.68] these -[3716.68 --> 3716.98] things -[3716.98 --> 3717.16] and -[3717.16 --> 3718.24] it -[3718.24 --> 3718.48] also -[3718.48 --> 3718.84] happened -[3718.84 --> 3719.10] that -[3719.10 --> 3720.44] before -[3720.44 --> 3720.86] like -[3720.86 --> 3721.22] giant -[3721.22 --> 3721.90] roadside -[3721.90 --> 3722.66] advertisements -[3722.66 --> 3722.96] were -[3722.96 --> 3723.38] LCD -[3723.38 --> 3723.98] screens -[3723.98 --> 3724.58] they -[3724.58 --> 3724.74] were -[3724.74 --> 3725.50] louvered -[3725.50 --> 3725.98] screens -[3725.98 --> 3726.20] so -[3726.20 --> 3726.32] that -[3726.32 --> 3726.44] they -[3726.44 --> 3726.58] could -[3726.58 --> 3727.22] switch -[3727.22 --> 3727.36] and -[3727.36 --> 3727.46] then -[3727.46 --> 3727.54] you -[3727.54 --> 3727.66] have -[3727.66 --> 3727.78] an -[3727.78 --> 3728.02] image -[3728.02 --> 3728.26] one -[3728.26 --> 3728.46] way -[3728.46 --> 3728.58] and -[3728.58 --> 3728.70] then -[3728.70 --> 3728.80] they -[3728.80 --> 3728.96] go -[3728.96 --> 3729.12] the -[3729.12 --> 3729.30] other -[3729.30 --> 3729.52] way -[3729.52 --> 3729.64] and -[3729.64 --> 3729.74] there -[3729.74 --> 3729.84] would -[3729.84 --> 3729.96] be -[3729.96 --> 3730.10] a -[3730.10 --> 3730.38] different -[3730.38 --> 3731.02] advertisement -[3731.02 --> 3731.36] on -[3731.36 --> 3731.58] there -[3731.58 --> 3732.16] right -[3732.16 --> 3732.28] so -[3732.28 --> 3732.54] think -[3732.54 --> 3732.70] of -[3732.70 --> 3733.36] vertical -[3733.36 --> 3733.94] louvered -[3733.94 --> 3734.46] blinds -[3734.46 --> 3734.60] that -[3734.60 --> 3735.30] block -[3735.30 --> 3735.66] you -[3735.66 --> 3735.88] from -[3735.88 --> 3736.26] seeing -[3736.26 --> 3736.74] past -[3736.74 --> 3736.90] or -[3736.90 --> 3737.02] that -[3737.02 --> 3737.18] they -[3737.18 --> 3737.78] cast -[3737.78 --> 3737.98] an -[3737.98 --> 3738.44] image -[3738.44 --> 3739.18] up -[3739.18 --> 3739.44] there -[3739.44 --> 3740.46] and -[3740.46 --> 3740.60] if -[3740.60 --> 3740.80] the -[3740.80 --> 3741.36] blinds -[3741.36 --> 3741.60] are -[3741.60 --> 3742.70] tilted -[3742.70 --> 3743.28] just -[3743.28 --> 3743.68] right -[3743.68 --> 3743.90] sort -[3743.90 --> 3743.98] of -[3743.98 --> 3744.18] on a -[3744.18 --> 3744.54] 45 -[3744.54 --> 3745.02] degree -[3745.02 --> 3745.84] angle -[3745.84 --> 3746.60] then -[3746.60 --> 3746.84] from -[3746.84 --> 3747.24] straight -[3747.24 --> 3747.58] on -[3747.58 --> 3747.78] you -[3747.78 --> 3748.16] can't -[3748.16 --> 3748.38] see -[3748.38 --> 3748.62] through -[3748.62 --> 3748.92] them -[3748.92 --> 3750.22] but -[3750.22 --> 3750.34] if -[3750.34 --> 3750.48] you -[3750.48 --> 3750.84] shift -[3750.84 --> 3751.02] a -[3751.02 --> 3751.18] little -[3751.18 --> 3751.54] bit -[3751.54 --> 3752.58] over -[3752.58 --> 3753.52] and -[3753.52 --> 3753.72] look -[3753.72 --> 3754.00] through -[3754.00 --> 3754.22] you -[3754.22 --> 3754.38] can -[3754.38 --> 3754.76] see -[3754.76 --> 3755.16] through -[3755.16 --> 3755.34] the -[3755.34 --> 3755.86] blinds -[3755.86 --> 3756.00] to -[3756.00 --> 3756.30] what's -[3756.30 --> 3756.52] really -[3756.52 --> 3756.90] behind -[3756.90 --> 3757.20] it -[3757.20 --> 3758.84] right -[3758.84 --> 3758.96] the -[3758.96 --> 3759.80] world -[3759.80 --> 3760.24] and -[3760.24 --> 3760.74] culture -[3760.74 --> 3761.12] wants -[3761.12 --> 3761.32] to -[3761.32 --> 3761.90] mask -[3761.90 --> 3762.22] what's -[3762.22 --> 3762.48] really -[3762.48 --> 3762.76] going -[3762.76 --> 3763.26] on -[3763.26 --> 3764.40] so -[3764.40 --> 3764.52] that -[3764.52 --> 3764.64] you -[3764.64 --> 3764.96] can't -[3764.96 --> 3765.20] see -[3765.20 --> 3765.72] through -[3765.72 --> 3766.52] behind -[3766.52 --> 3767.12] to -[3767.12 --> 3767.28] the -[3767.28 --> 3767.66] truth -[3767.66 --> 3769.36] apocalyptic -[3769.36 --> 3770.12] literature -[3770.12 --> 3770.62] Smith -[3770.62 --> 3771.12] continues -[3771.12 --> 3772.02] is like -[3772.02 --> 3772.38] that -[3772.38 --> 3772.88] right -[3772.88 --> 3773.02] the -[3773.02 --> 3773.38] rival -[3773.38 --> 3773.88] empires -[3773.88 --> 3774.06] that -[3774.06 --> 3774.20] would -[3774.20 --> 3774.76] captivate -[3774.76 --> 3774.90] us -[3774.90 --> 3775.06] have -[3775.06 --> 3775.32] something -[3775.32 --> 3775.52] to -[3775.52 --> 3775.94] hide -[3775.94 --> 3776.50] and -[3776.50 --> 3776.78] so -[3776.78 --> 3777.08] you -[3777.08 --> 3777.20] could -[3777.20 --> 3777.42] say -[3777.42 --> 3777.60] that -[3777.60 --> 3777.74] they -[3777.74 --> 3778.08] tilt -[3778.08 --> 3778.28] the -[3778.28 --> 3778.62] louvers -[3778.62 --> 3778.94] just -[3778.94 --> 3779.42] slightly -[3779.42 --> 3779.68] to -[3779.68 --> 3779.96] cover -[3779.96 --> 3780.16] what -[3780.16 --> 3780.28] they -[3780.28 --> 3780.52] want -[3780.52 --> 3780.68] to -[3780.68 --> 3781.00] hide -[3781.00 --> 3781.44] and -[3781.44 --> 3781.56] they -[3781.56 --> 3781.80] paint -[3781.80 --> 3781.96] a -[3781.96 --> 3782.32] beautiful -[3782.32 --> 3782.74] picture -[3782.74 --> 3782.96] on -[3782.96 --> 3783.10] the -[3783.10 --> 3783.40] screen -[3783.40 --> 3783.66] one -[3783.66 --> 3783.86] that -[3783.86 --> 3784.56] captivates -[3784.56 --> 3784.74] and -[3784.74 --> 3785.52] mesmerizes -[3785.52 --> 3786.02] and -[3786.02 --> 3786.58] inspires -[3786.58 --> 3787.12] and -[3787.12 --> 3787.22] if -[3787.22 --> 3787.34] you -[3787.34 --> 3787.50] look -[3787.50 --> 3787.60] at -[3787.60 --> 3787.76] that -[3787.76 --> 3788.14] screen -[3788.14 --> 3788.52] straight -[3788.52 --> 3788.90] on -[3788.90 --> 3789.62] you're -[3789.62 --> 3790.06] dazzled -[3790.06 --> 3790.26] by -[3790.26 --> 3790.52] what's -[3790.52 --> 3790.84] presented -[3790.84 --> 3791.06] to -[3791.06 --> 3791.30] you -[3791.30 --> 3792.74] apocalyptic -[3792.74 --> 3793.22] literature -[3793.22 --> 3793.60] is -[3793.60 --> 3794.64] revealing -[3794.64 --> 3795.64] precisely -[3795.64 --> 3796.10] because -[3796.10 --> 3796.28] it -[3796.28 --> 3796.46] gives -[3796.46 --> 3796.60] us -[3796.60 --> 3796.76] a -[3796.76 --> 3797.06] new -[3797.06 --> 3797.76] perspective -[3797.76 --> 3798.46] to -[3798.46 --> 3798.72] see -[3798.72 --> 3799.46] through -[3799.46 --> 3800.20] those -[3800.20 --> 3801.94] beguiling -[3801.94 --> 3803.14] misrepresentations -[3803.14 --> 3804.60] apocalyptic -[3804.60 --> 3805.12] literature -[3805.12 --> 3805.64] invites -[3805.64 --> 3805.92] us -[3805.92 --> 3806.14] to -[3806.14 --> 3806.84] lean -[3806.84 --> 3807.40] over -[3807.40 --> 3807.74] and -[3807.74 --> 3807.92] get -[3807.92 --> 3808.08] a -[3808.08 --> 3808.30] new -[3808.30 --> 3808.92] perspective -[3808.92 --> 3809.58] to -[3809.58 --> 3809.78] see -[3809.78 --> 3810.10] through -[3810.10 --> 3810.30] the -[3810.30 --> 3810.76] blinders -[3810.76 --> 3810.94] to -[3810.94 --> 3811.16] what's -[3811.16 --> 3811.54] really -[3811.54 --> 3812.30] behind -[3812.30 --> 3812.64] the -[3812.64 --> 3812.96] screen -[3812.96 --> 3815.58] a -[3815.58 --> 3816.44] few -[3816.44 --> 3816.68] years -[3816.68 --> 3816.96] ago -[3816.96 --> 3817.34] my -[3817.34 --> 3818.16] family -[3818.16 --> 3818.50] and I -[3818.50 --> 3818.66] we -[3818.66 --> 3818.76] were -[3818.76 --> 3820.20] traveling -[3820.20 --> 3820.48] it was -[3820.48 --> 3820.72] Easter -[3820.72 --> 3821.08] Sunday -[3821.08 --> 3822.10] and we -[3822.10 --> 3822.20] were -[3822.20 --> 3822.32] going -[3822.32 --> 3822.38] to -[3822.38 --> 3822.50] go -[3822.50 --> 3822.66] for -[3822.66 --> 3822.80] a -[3822.80 --> 3823.08] hike -[3823.08 --> 3823.40] in -[3823.40 --> 3823.52] the -[3823.52 --> 3823.78] Niagara -[3823.78 --> 3824.10] area -[3824.10 --> 3824.30] where -[3824.30 --> 3824.50] we -[3824.50 --> 3824.82] lived -[3824.82 --> 3824.92] at -[3824.92 --> 3825.04] the -[3825.04 --> 3825.26] time -[3825.26 --> 3826.26] and -[3826.26 --> 3826.40] to -[3826.40 --> 3826.64] get -[3826.64 --> 3827.12] into -[3827.12 --> 3828.12] the -[3828.12 --> 3828.44] heart -[3828.44 --> 3828.86] of -[3828.86 --> 3829.24] Niagara -[3829.24 --> 3829.44] on -[3829.44 --> 3829.54] the -[3829.54 --> 3829.80] lake -[3829.80 --> 3830.02] from -[3830.02 --> 3830.18] where -[3830.18 --> 3830.36] we -[3830.36 --> 3830.68] lived -[3830.68 --> 3830.90] we -[3830.90 --> 3831.06] had -[3831.06 --> 3831.20] to -[3831.20 --> 3831.58] drive -[3831.58 --> 3832.34] past -[3832.34 --> 3833.06] this -[3833.06 --> 3834.02] massive -[3834.02 --> 3834.52] outlet -[3834.52 --> 3834.90] mall -[3834.90 --> 3836.42] and -[3836.42 --> 3836.60] as -[3836.60 --> 3836.74] we -[3836.74 --> 3836.92] drove -[3836.92 --> 3837.30] past -[3837.30 --> 3837.48] on -[3837.48 --> 3837.76] Easter -[3837.76 --> 3838.18] Sunday -[3838.18 --> 3839.26] it -[3839.26 --> 3839.48] was -[3839.48 --> 3839.70] like -[3839.70 --> 3840.30] street -[3840.30 --> 3840.90] only -[3840.90 --> 3841.40] parking -[3841.40 --> 3842.50] it -[3842.50 --> 3842.70] was -[3842.70 --> 3843.56] packed -[3843.56 --> 3845.32] Rachel -[3845.32 --> 3845.64] leaned -[3845.64 --> 3845.92] over -[3845.92 --> 3846.30] as we -[3846.30 --> 3846.48] drove -[3846.48 --> 3846.74] by -[3846.74 --> 3846.92] and -[3846.92 --> 3847.08] she -[3847.08 --> 3847.38] goes -[3847.38 --> 3848.12] I -[3848.12 --> 3848.30] guess -[3848.30 --> 3848.50] that -[3848.50 --> 3848.82] temple -[3848.82 --> 3848.94] is -[3848.94 --> 3849.22] open -[3849.22 --> 3849.42] for -[3849.42 --> 3849.70] worship -[3849.70 --> 3850.00] today -[3850.00 --> 3850.28] too -[3850.28 --> 3852.46] and -[3852.46 --> 3852.58] I -[3852.58 --> 3853.08] laughed -[3853.08 --> 3853.40] because -[3853.40 --> 3853.64] that -[3853.64 --> 3853.84] just -[3853.84 --> 3854.14] shows -[3854.14 --> 3854.28] how -[3854.28 --> 3854.40] many -[3854.40 --> 3854.68] times -[3854.68 --> 3855.02] we have -[3855.02 --> 3855.18] these -[3855.18 --> 3855.40] kinds -[3855.40 --> 3855.52] of -[3855.52 --> 3855.98] conversations -[3855.98 --> 3856.38] in my -[3856.38 --> 3856.64] house -[3856.64 --> 3857.14] we're -[3857.14 --> 3857.38] a really -[3857.38 --> 3857.78] exciting -[3857.78 --> 3858.14] bunch -[3858.14 --> 3861.92] but she -[3861.92 --> 3862.36] was pointing -[3862.36 --> 3862.72] to the -[3862.72 --> 3863.20] fact that -[3863.20 --> 3863.76] the mall -[3863.76 --> 3864.92] is a place -[3864.92 --> 3865.96] of formation -[3865.96 --> 3867.36] right the mall -[3867.36 --> 3869.16] modern consumerism -[3869.16 --> 3870.04] is the water -[3870.04 --> 3870.44] that we -[3870.44 --> 3871.40] swim in -[3871.40 --> 3871.96] right and -[3871.96 --> 3872.32] the mall -[3872.32 --> 3872.70] is a -[3872.70 --> 3873.02] temple -[3873.02 --> 3873.66] it's not -[3873.66 --> 3874.12] just some -[3874.12 --> 3874.70] neutral -[3874.70 --> 3875.34] space -[3875.34 --> 3876.50] and not -[3876.50 --> 3876.86] because it -[3876.86 --> 3877.14] has a -[3877.14 --> 3877.60] theology -[3877.60 --> 3878.14] per se -[3878.14 --> 3878.74] even though -[3878.74 --> 3879.08] it does -[3879.08 --> 3879.72] but it's -[3879.72 --> 3880.06] not a -[3880.06 --> 3880.24] neutral -[3880.24 --> 3880.62] space -[3880.62 --> 3881.02] because it -[3881.02 --> 3881.24] wants -[3881.24 --> 3881.44] your -[3881.44 --> 3881.98] heart -[3881.98 --> 3883.08] it -[3883.08 --> 3883.32] wants -[3883.32 --> 3883.50] your -[3883.50 --> 3884.04] love -[3884.04 --> 3884.22] it -[3884.22 --> 3884.42] wants -[3884.42 --> 3884.64] your -[3884.64 --> 3885.78] affections -[3885.78 --> 3886.48] and -[3886.48 --> 3886.80] then it -[3886.80 --> 3887.36] shapes -[3887.36 --> 3887.86] you -[3887.86 --> 3888.34] with -[3888.34 --> 3888.86] intentional -[3888.86 --> 3889.62] designs -[3889.62 --> 3890.12] and -[3890.12 --> 3890.78] practices -[3890.78 --> 3891.28] and -[3891.28 --> 3891.92] structures -[3891.92 --> 3892.70] and -[3892.70 --> 3893.30] movements -[3893.30 --> 3893.96] and the -[3893.96 --> 3894.30] mall is -[3894.30 --> 3894.52] one -[3894.52 --> 3894.94] example -[3894.94 --> 3895.40] of this -[3895.40 --> 3895.72] there's -[3895.72 --> 3896.26] countless -[3896.26 --> 3896.68] others -[3896.68 --> 3897.36] in our -[3897.36 --> 3897.68] culture -[3897.68 --> 3898.50] it's a -[3898.50 --> 3898.88] movement -[3898.88 --> 3899.48] of a -[3899.48 --> 3899.94] liturgy -[3899.94 --> 3900.18] of -[3900.18 --> 3900.70] behaviors -[3900.70 --> 3901.00] and -[3901.00 --> 3901.42] commitments -[3901.42 --> 3901.84] that we -[3901.84 --> 3902.20] are -[3902.20 --> 3902.62] shaped -[3902.62 --> 3902.92] by -[3902.92 --> 3903.26] as we -[3903.26 --> 3903.68] process -[3903.68 --> 3903.98] them -[3903.98 --> 3904.16] and -[3904.16 --> 3904.72] engage -[3904.72 --> 3904.98] in them -[3904.98 --> 3905.26] over -[3905.26 --> 3905.92] and over -[3905.92 --> 3906.46] and over -[3906.46 --> 3907.58] but with -[3907.58 --> 3908.22] eyes to -[3908.22 --> 3908.66] see -[3908.66 --> 3910.22] we can -[3910.22 --> 3910.60] say -[3910.60 --> 3911.32] that temple -[3911.32 --> 3911.78] is open -[3911.78 --> 3912.00] too -[3912.00 --> 3914.44] and so -[3914.44 --> 3914.88] with those -[3914.88 --> 3915.32] eyes -[3915.32 --> 3915.84] we come -[3915.84 --> 3916.38] fresh -[3916.38 --> 3916.92] to just -[3916.92 --> 3917.24] what is -[3917.24 --> 3917.60] happening -[3917.60 --> 3918.02] around -[3918.02 --> 3918.30] us -[3918.30 --> 3919.08] to what -[3919.08 --> 3919.42] is -[3919.42 --> 3920.00] shaping -[3920.00 --> 3920.50] us -[3920.50 --> 3920.84] in the -[3920.84 --> 3921.14] world -[3921.14 --> 3922.54] and so -[3922.54 --> 3922.82] we are -[3922.82 --> 3923.54] looking -[3923.54 --> 3924.10] a little -[3924.10 --> 3924.74] left -[3924.74 --> 3925.54] or -[3925.54 --> 3925.86] right -[3925.86 --> 3926.20] if -[3926.20 --> 3926.46] looking -[3926.46 --> 3926.74] left -[3926.74 --> 3927.06] bothers -[3927.06 --> 3927.24] you -[3927.24 --> 3927.40] for -[3927.40 --> 3927.96] political -[3927.96 --> 3928.40] reasons -[3928.40 --> 3930.62] to see -[3930.62 --> 3930.92] what's -[3930.92 --> 3931.16] really -[3931.16 --> 3931.42] going -[3931.42 --> 3931.80] on -[3931.80 --> 3933.38] now -[3933.38 --> 3933.54] you've -[3933.54 --> 3933.68] already -[3933.68 --> 3934.06] heard me -[3934.06 --> 3934.30] say -[3934.30 --> 3934.50] that -[3934.50 --> 3934.74] the -[3934.74 --> 3935.30] ascension -[3935.30 --> 3935.98] of -[3935.98 --> 3936.32] Jesus -[3936.32 --> 3936.76] has -[3936.76 --> 3937.00] given -[3937.00 --> 3937.26] us -[3937.26 --> 3937.76] heaven -[3937.76 --> 3938.36] attained -[3938.36 --> 3939.24] right -[3939.24 --> 3939.42] not -[3939.42 --> 3939.66] just -[3939.66 --> 3940.06] hope -[3940.06 --> 3940.44] for -[3940.44 --> 3941.04] but -[3941.04 --> 3941.72] a -[3941.72 --> 3942.32] constant -[3942.32 --> 3942.94] advocate -[3942.94 --> 3943.22] and -[3943.22 --> 3943.86] intercessor -[3943.86 --> 3944.36] right -[3944.36 --> 3944.90] and by -[3944.90 --> 3945.10] that -[3945.10 --> 3945.26] a -[3945.26 --> 3945.62] gracious -[3945.62 --> 3946.16] gifting -[3946.16 --> 3946.60] of the -[3946.60 --> 3946.82] Holy -[3946.82 --> 3947.20] Spirit -[3947.20 --> 3947.74] you've -[3947.74 --> 3948.04] already -[3948.04 --> 3948.50] heard me -[3948.50 --> 3948.74] say -[3948.74 --> 3948.98] that -[3948.98 --> 3949.80] worship -[3949.80 --> 3950.60] here -[3950.60 --> 3951.46] reminds -[3951.46 --> 3951.72] us -[3951.72 --> 3951.94] of -[3951.94 --> 3952.30] that -[3952.30 --> 3953.80] now -[3953.80 --> 3954.76] I want -[3954.76 --> 3954.96] to be -[3954.96 --> 3955.24] clear -[3955.24 --> 3955.66] again -[3955.66 --> 3956.20] one more -[3956.20 --> 3956.50] time -[3956.50 --> 3957.58] because -[3957.58 --> 3957.84] some -[3957.84 --> 3958.12] of you -[3958.12 --> 3958.64] are -[3958.64 --> 3958.86] pretty -[3958.86 --> 3959.08] good -[3959.08 --> 3959.56] reformed -[3959.56 --> 3960.12] theologians -[3960.12 --> 3960.64] and you've -[3960.64 --> 3960.88] already -[3960.88 --> 3961.84] made a -[3961.84 --> 3962.18] distinction -[3962.18 --> 3962.56] in your -[3962.56 --> 3962.84] mind -[3962.84 --> 3963.16] between -[3963.16 --> 3963.68] worship -[3963.68 --> 3964.54] here -[3964.54 --> 3964.96] present -[3964.96 --> 3965.38] and then -[3965.38 --> 3965.76] worship -[3965.76 --> 3966.10] like -[3966.10 --> 3967.04] out there -[3967.04 --> 3967.38] the way -[3967.38 --> 3967.82] we live -[3967.82 --> 3968.40] our lives -[3968.40 --> 3968.60] right -[3968.60 --> 3969.06] sometimes -[3969.06 --> 3969.50] we say -[3969.50 --> 3969.90] that all -[3969.90 --> 3970.32] of life -[3970.32 --> 3970.84] is lived -[3970.84 --> 3971.38] corum -[3971.38 --> 3971.88] deo -[3971.88 --> 3972.48] which is -[3972.48 --> 3972.78] latin -[3972.78 --> 3973.34] for before -[3973.34 --> 3973.84] the face -[3973.84 --> 3974.38] of god -[3974.38 --> 3974.90] right -[3974.90 --> 3975.16] that our -[3975.16 --> 3975.52] work -[3975.52 --> 3975.98] becomes -[3975.98 --> 3976.42] a way -[3976.42 --> 3976.72] of -[3976.72 --> 3977.40] worship -[3977.40 --> 3977.82] we talk -[3977.82 --> 3978.00] about -[3978.00 --> 3978.80] every square -[3978.80 --> 3979.16] inch -[3979.16 --> 3979.68] or all -[3979.68 --> 3980.16] of life -[3980.16 --> 3980.60] worship -[3980.60 --> 3981.26] and all -[3981.26 --> 3981.54] that is -[3981.54 --> 3982.04] good -[3982.04 --> 3982.44] right -[3982.44 --> 3982.70] and all -[3982.70 --> 3983.00] that is -[3983.00 --> 3983.44] one of -[3983.44 --> 3983.96] the strong -[3983.96 --> 3984.86] attributes -[3984.86 --> 3985.18] of -[3985.18 --> 3985.68] reformed -[3985.68 --> 3986.02] theology -[3986.02 --> 3986.48] to the -[3986.48 --> 3986.72] broader -[3986.72 --> 3987.08] world -[3987.08 --> 3987.22] of -[3987.22 --> 3987.50] public -[3987.50 --> 3987.96] theology -[3987.96 --> 3989.50] but -[3989.50 --> 3990.62] what I'm -[3990.62 --> 3991.06] talking about -[3991.06 --> 3991.36] here -[3991.36 --> 3991.56] and what -[3991.56 --> 3991.98] our focus -[3991.98 --> 3992.32] here -[3992.32 --> 3992.94] is -[3992.94 --> 3994.36] gathered -[3994.36 --> 3995.42] worship -[3995.42 --> 3996.24] and so -[3996.24 --> 3996.58] maybe that's -[3996.58 --> 3996.84] a helpful -[3996.84 --> 3997.26] distinction -[3997.26 --> 3997.56] between -[3997.56 --> 3998.24] gathered -[3998.24 --> 3998.82] worship -[3998.82 --> 3999.10] where we -[3999.10 --> 3999.26] come -[3999.26 --> 3999.52] together -[3999.52 --> 3999.96] and -[3999.96 --> 4000.62] scattered -[4000.62 --> 4001.74] worship -[4001.74 --> 4002.28] where we -[4002.28 --> 4002.48] go -[4002.48 --> 4004.00] gathered -[4004.00 --> 4004.42] worship -[4004.42 --> 4004.88] is what -[4004.88 --> 4005.18] we are -[4005.18 --> 4005.50] doing -[4005.50 --> 4006.38] right now -[4006.38 --> 4006.74] what we -[4006.74 --> 4007.10] do on -[4007.10 --> 4007.74] Sunday -[4007.74 --> 4008.14] morning -[4008.14 --> 4008.80] or Sunday -[4008.80 --> 4009.16] evening -[4009.16 --> 4009.60] in some -[4009.60 --> 4009.98] places -[4009.98 --> 4010.58] sometimes -[4010.58 --> 4011.40] on -[4011.40 --> 4012.10] Saturdays -[4012.10 --> 4012.28] or -[4012.28 --> 4013.00] Wednesdays -[4013.00 --> 4013.64] the day -[4013.64 --> 4014.34] isn't so -[4014.34 --> 4014.92] important -[4014.92 --> 4015.58] although there's -[4015.58 --> 4016.44] part of that -[4016.44 --> 4016.84] in play -[4016.84 --> 4017.16] here -[4017.16 --> 4019.10] as it is -[4019.10 --> 4019.56] the fact -[4019.56 --> 4020.30] that believers -[4020.30 --> 4021.42] are gathering -[4021.42 --> 4022.20] together -[4022.20 --> 4023.38] and searching -[4023.38 --> 4024.52] and longing -[4024.52 --> 4025.48] to encounter -[4025.48 --> 4026.16] the living -[4026.16 --> 4026.74] God -[4026.74 --> 4027.84] through his -[4027.84 --> 4028.74] living word -[4028.74 --> 4029.68] and song -[4029.68 --> 4030.34] and liturgy -[4030.34 --> 4030.94] and bible -[4030.94 --> 4032.06] and sermon -[4032.06 --> 4033.00] and sacrament -[4033.00 --> 4033.80] together -[4033.80 --> 4034.54] through praying -[4034.54 --> 4035.10] offered -[4035.10 --> 4036.20] and offering -[4036.20 --> 4037.02] given -[4037.02 --> 4037.90] through testimony -[4037.90 --> 4039.18] and reflection -[4039.18 --> 4040.80] scattered -[4040.80 --> 4041.22] worship -[4041.22 --> 4041.60] is what -[4041.60 --> 4041.86] you do -[4041.86 --> 4042.14] when you -[4042.14 --> 4042.46] leave -[4042.46 --> 4043.62] at every -[4043.62 --> 4043.94] moment -[4043.94 --> 4044.34] of every -[4044.34 --> 4044.82] other day -[4044.82 --> 4045.74] is also -[4045.74 --> 4046.28] worship -[4046.28 --> 4046.84] either of -[4046.84 --> 4047.26] God -[4047.26 --> 4048.16] or if -[4048.16 --> 4048.60] you're in -[4048.60 --> 4049.00] the water -[4049.00 --> 4049.60] of something -[4049.60 --> 4050.02] else -[4050.02 --> 4050.54] but it is -[4050.54 --> 4051.18] worship -[4051.18 --> 4051.62] right the way -[4051.62 --> 4052.02] you work -[4052.02 --> 4052.68] is worship -[4052.68 --> 4053.38] your parenting -[4053.38 --> 4054.14] is a form -[4054.14 --> 4054.96] of worship -[4054.96 --> 4055.60] your play -[4055.60 --> 4056.52] is a form -[4056.52 --> 4057.08] of worship -[4057.08 --> 4057.76] your art -[4057.76 --> 4058.74] is a form -[4058.74 --> 4059.32] of worship -[4059.32 --> 4059.84] obeying -[4059.84 --> 4060.56] your parents -[4060.56 --> 4061.48] is a form -[4061.48 --> 4062.12] of worship -[4062.12 --> 4064.06] school -[4064.06 --> 4064.82] right -[4064.82 --> 4065.28] all of -[4065.28 --> 4065.46] these -[4065.46 --> 4065.90] things -[4065.90 --> 4067.22] we gather -[4067.22 --> 4068.30] for worship -[4068.30 --> 4068.94] so that we -[4068.94 --> 4069.72] can scatter -[4069.72 --> 4070.76] and worship -[4070.76 --> 4071.32] well -[4071.32 --> 4072.98] this morning -[4072.98 --> 4073.92] and in -[4073.92 --> 4074.48] revelation -[4074.48 --> 4075.00] here -[4075.00 --> 4075.40] in these -[4075.40 --> 4077.30] chapters 4 -[4077.30 --> 4077.64] and 5 -[4077.64 --> 4078.22] in particular -[4078.22 --> 4079.28] I want to -[4079.28 --> 4079.60] look at -[4079.60 --> 4080.28] gathered -[4080.28 --> 4081.36] worship -[4081.36 --> 4082.70] that ordinary -[4082.70 --> 4084.20] but not so -[4084.20 --> 4084.66] ordinary -[4084.66 --> 4085.72] regular -[4085.72 --> 4087.06] weekly -[4087.06 --> 4087.92] worship -[4087.92 --> 4089.12] of the church -[4089.12 --> 4090.10] whether that's -[4090.10 --> 4090.40] here -[4090.40 --> 4091.36] or in houses -[4091.36 --> 4092.46] or in fields -[4092.46 --> 4093.46] or around -[4093.46 --> 4093.92] the world -[4093.92 --> 4094.66] as the -[4094.66 --> 4095.02] gathered -[4095.02 --> 4095.78] church -[4095.78 --> 4096.64] comes together -[4096.64 --> 4097.78] and what I -[4097.78 --> 4098.34] want to suggest -[4098.34 --> 4098.74] to you -[4098.74 --> 4099.74] what I believe -[4099.74 --> 4100.02] the book -[4100.02 --> 4100.56] of revelation -[4100.56 --> 4101.48] is showing -[4101.48 --> 4102.12] us as we -[4102.12 --> 4102.90] tilt to look -[4102.90 --> 4103.24] through the -[4103.24 --> 4103.94] louvered blinds -[4103.94 --> 4104.34] is that there -[4104.34 --> 4104.96] is nothing -[4104.96 --> 4105.94] ordinary -[4105.94 --> 4107.26] about ordinary -[4107.26 --> 4108.26] worship -[4108.26 --> 4109.68] and so again -[4109.68 --> 4110.26] with your bible -[4110.26 --> 4111.86] in front of you -[4111.86 --> 4113.76] John says -[4113.76 --> 4114.36] after this -[4114.36 --> 4114.92] I looked -[4114.92 --> 4115.38] and there -[4115.38 --> 4115.98] before me -[4115.98 --> 4116.66] was a door -[4116.66 --> 4117.82] standing open -[4117.82 --> 4119.12] in heaven -[4119.12 --> 4121.46] right -[4121.46 --> 4121.70] some -[4121.70 --> 4122.54] have it -[4122.54 --> 4123.24] translated -[4123.24 --> 4123.72] as an -[4123.72 --> 4124.70] opened door -[4124.70 --> 4125.32] or a door -[4125.32 --> 4126.06] standing open -[4126.06 --> 4126.38] but it was -[4126.38 --> 4127.32] it was opened -[4127.32 --> 4128.38] it was revealed -[4128.38 --> 4129.10] God has -[4129.10 --> 4130.54] opened to him -[4130.54 --> 4131.62] the heavenly -[4131.62 --> 4132.52] throne room -[4132.52 --> 4133.34] and invited -[4133.34 --> 4134.24] John in -[4134.24 --> 4134.84] to see -[4134.84 --> 4135.48] what's going -[4135.48 --> 4135.94] on -[4135.94 --> 4136.88] right -[4136.88 --> 4137.26] this is -[4137.26 --> 4137.68] John's -[4137.68 --> 4137.94] leaning -[4137.94 --> 4138.44] to the -[4138.44 --> 4139.20] left -[4139.20 --> 4139.76] to look -[4139.76 --> 4139.94] through -[4139.94 --> 4140.40] the louvered -[4140.40 --> 4140.88] blinds -[4140.88 --> 4141.50] and he's -[4141.50 --> 4141.76] looking -[4141.76 --> 4142.28] for the -[4142.28 --> 4142.64] truth -[4142.64 --> 4143.20] behind the -[4143.20 --> 4143.56] picture -[4143.56 --> 4144.18] and what -[4144.18 --> 4144.46] he is -[4144.46 --> 4144.88] given a -[4144.88 --> 4145.14] vision -[4145.14 --> 4145.66] of -[4145.66 --> 4147.02] is heaven -[4147.02 --> 4148.68] and this -[4148.68 --> 4149.10] is important -[4149.10 --> 4150.22] right -[4150.22 --> 4151.02] where is -[4151.02 --> 4151.50] John -[4151.50 --> 4152.12] when this -[4152.12 --> 4152.56] happens -[4152.56 --> 4156.78] chapter 1 -[4156.78 --> 4157.68] flip back a -[4157.68 --> 4158.24] couple pages -[4158.24 --> 4160.54] verse 10 -[4160.54 --> 4161.78] chapter 1 -[4161.78 --> 4162.32] verse 10 -[4162.32 --> 4163.44] on the -[4163.44 --> 4164.36] Lord's day -[4164.36 --> 4165.82] I was in -[4165.82 --> 4166.38] the spirit -[4166.38 --> 4167.42] and I heard -[4167.42 --> 4167.92] behind me -[4167.92 --> 4168.78] a loud voice -[4168.78 --> 4169.30] like a -[4169.30 --> 4169.62] trumpet -[4169.62 --> 4171.14] right -[4171.14 --> 4171.74] on the -[4171.74 --> 4172.40] Lord's day -[4172.40 --> 4173.12] the Lord's -[4173.12 --> 4173.28] day -[4173.28 --> 4173.60] for those -[4173.60 --> 4173.78] of you -[4173.78 --> 4174.10] who don't -[4174.10 --> 4174.28] know -[4174.28 --> 4174.74] from the -[4174.74 --> 4175.04] very -[4175.04 --> 4175.46] beginning -[4175.46 --> 4176.12] after Jesus -[4176.12 --> 4176.64] resurrection -[4176.64 --> 4177.36] is -[4177.36 --> 4178.34] Sunday -[4178.34 --> 4179.50] is the -[4179.50 --> 4179.80] day -[4179.80 --> 4180.22] that the -[4180.22 --> 4180.60] church -[4180.60 --> 4181.50] from the -[4181.50 --> 4181.92] New Testament -[4181.92 --> 4182.28] forward -[4182.28 --> 4183.02] has gathered -[4183.02 --> 4183.78] to worship -[4183.78 --> 4184.14] God -[4184.14 --> 4185.44] so John -[4185.44 --> 4186.36] is in the -[4186.36 --> 4187.24] gathering of -[4187.24 --> 4187.80] believers -[4187.80 --> 4189.28] he's with the -[4189.28 --> 4189.72] church -[4189.72 --> 4190.50] when he has -[4190.50 --> 4190.84] this -[4190.84 --> 4191.58] vision -[4191.58 --> 4195.22] and he gets -[4195.22 --> 4196.04] this picture -[4196.04 --> 4197.10] while he is -[4197.10 --> 4197.72] in worship -[4197.72 --> 4201.06] of this -[4201.06 --> 4201.86] nothing -[4201.86 --> 4202.48] ordinary -[4202.48 --> 4202.96] about -[4202.96 --> 4203.46] ordinary -[4203.46 --> 4204.24] worship -[4204.24 --> 4204.60] as he -[4204.60 --> 4205.00] glimpses -[4205.00 --> 4205.30] heaven -[4205.30 --> 4206.82] voice -[4206.82 --> 4207.16] says -[4207.16 --> 4207.72] come up -[4207.72 --> 4208.02] here -[4208.02 --> 4208.42] and I -[4208.42 --> 4208.60] will -[4208.60 --> 4208.86] show -[4208.86 --> 4209.06] you -[4209.06 --> 4209.24] what -[4209.24 --> 4209.52] must -[4209.52 --> 4210.28] take -[4210.28 --> 4210.74] place -[4210.74 --> 4211.10] after -[4211.10 --> 4211.42] this -[4211.42 --> 4211.60] now -[4211.60 --> 4212.62] the -[4212.62 --> 4213.04] after -[4213.04 --> 4213.50] this -[4213.50 --> 4215.22] I think -[4215.22 --> 4215.68] refers -[4215.68 --> 4216.66] to the -[4216.66 --> 4217.66] ethical -[4217.66 --> 4218.40] instructions -[4218.40 --> 4218.68] the -[4218.68 --> 4219.14] instructions -[4219.14 --> 4219.48] that were -[4219.48 --> 4219.88] given to -[4219.88 --> 4220.06] the -[4220.06 --> 4220.44] churches -[4220.44 --> 4221.30] in -[4221.30 --> 4221.70] chapters -[4221.70 --> 4222.00] 2 -[4222.00 --> 4222.48] and 3 -[4222.48 --> 4223.60] right -[4223.60 --> 4224.88] and if -[4224.88 --> 4225.40] we do -[4225.40 --> 4225.68] a quick -[4225.68 --> 4226.06] survey -[4226.06 --> 4226.34] there -[4226.34 --> 4226.68] John -[4226.68 --> 4227.18] says -[4227.18 --> 4228.96] this -[4228.96 --> 4229.38] then -[4229.38 --> 4229.98] is -[4229.98 --> 4230.48] who -[4230.48 --> 4230.72] you -[4230.72 --> 4231.12] are -[4231.12 --> 4231.40] or -[4231.40 --> 4231.72] who -[4231.72 --> 4231.86] you -[4231.86 --> 4232.04] have -[4232.04 --> 4232.46] become -[4232.46 --> 4233.00] this -[4233.00 --> 4233.28] then -[4233.28 --> 4233.50] is -[4233.50 --> 4233.74] how -[4233.74 --> 4233.92] you -[4233.92 --> 4234.14] will -[4234.14 --> 4234.80] live -[4234.80 --> 4235.06] this -[4235.06 --> 4235.30] then -[4235.30 --> 4235.52] is -[4235.52 --> 4235.74] the -[4235.74 --> 4236.04] life -[4236.04 --> 4236.22] that -[4236.22 --> 4236.32] you -[4236.32 --> 4236.50] will -[4236.50 --> 4236.96] face -[4236.96 --> 4237.28] it's -[4237.28 --> 4237.38] a -[4237.38 --> 4237.64] hard -[4237.64 --> 4237.94] life -[4237.94 --> 4238.08] a -[4238.08 --> 4238.26] life -[4238.26 --> 4238.42] of -[4238.42 --> 4238.92] persecution -[4238.92 --> 4239.62] yes -[4239.62 --> 4239.96] but it -[4239.96 --> 4240.26] is a -[4240.26 --> 4240.54] life -[4240.54 --> 4241.00] of -[4241.00 --> 4241.54] worship -[4241.54 --> 4242.18] and -[4242.18 --> 4243.08] redefinition -[4243.08 --> 4244.04] really -[4244.04 --> 4244.32] quick -[4244.32 --> 4244.68] with your -[4244.68 --> 4245.06] Bibles -[4245.06 --> 4245.44] open -[4245.44 --> 4247.48] look -[4247.48 --> 4247.92] the way -[4247.92 --> 4249.72] Jesus -[4249.72 --> 4250.22] or the -[4250.22 --> 4250.64] angel -[4250.64 --> 4251.96] addresses -[4251.96 --> 4253.36] the -[4253.36 --> 4253.76] churches -[4253.76 --> 4254.28] that John -[4254.28 --> 4254.96] writes -[4254.96 --> 4255.12] here -[4255.12 --> 4255.74] chapter 2 -[4255.74 --> 4256.34] verse 7 -[4256.34 --> 4256.86] he says -[4256.86 --> 4257.60] whoever -[4257.60 --> 4258.44] has ears -[4258.44 --> 4258.88] let them -[4258.88 --> 4259.18] hear -[4259.18 --> 4259.50] what the -[4259.50 --> 4259.74] spirit -[4259.74 --> 4260.12] says -[4260.12 --> 4260.40] to the -[4260.40 --> 4260.74] churches -[4260.74 --> 4261.26] to the -[4261.26 --> 4261.56] one -[4261.56 --> 4261.80] who -[4261.80 --> 4262.12] is -[4262.12 --> 4262.88] victorious -[4262.88 --> 4263.72] I -[4263.72 --> 4263.88] will -[4263.88 --> 4264.08] give -[4264.08 --> 4264.20] you -[4264.20 --> 4264.36] the -[4264.36 --> 4264.62] right -[4264.62 --> 4264.84] to -[4264.84 --> 4265.06] eat -[4265.06 --> 4265.24] from -[4265.24 --> 4265.40] the -[4265.40 --> 4265.66] tree -[4265.66 --> 4265.90] of -[4265.90 --> 4266.24] life -[4266.24 --> 4266.48] which -[4266.48 --> 4266.64] is -[4266.64 --> 4266.82] in -[4266.82 --> 4267.24] the -[4267.24 --> 4267.70] paradise -[4267.70 --> 4267.92] of -[4267.92 --> 4268.24] God -[4268.24 --> 4268.78] jump -[4268.78 --> 4269.00] down -[4269.00 --> 4269.20] to -[4269.20 --> 4269.74] chapter -[4269.74 --> 4270.08] or -[4270.08 --> 4270.26] verse -[4270.26 --> 4270.60] 11 -[4270.60 --> 4271.42] whoever -[4271.42 --> 4271.82] has -[4271.82 --> 4272.24] ears -[4272.24 --> 4272.52] let -[4272.52 --> 4272.68] them -[4272.68 --> 4273.00] hear -[4273.00 --> 4273.20] what -[4273.20 --> 4273.36] the -[4273.36 --> 4273.64] spirit -[4273.64 --> 4273.98] says -[4273.98 --> 4274.12] to -[4274.12 --> 4274.26] the -[4274.26 --> 4274.64] churches -[4274.64 --> 4274.94] to -[4274.94 --> 4275.08] the -[4275.08 --> 4275.30] one -[4275.30 --> 4275.50] who -[4275.50 --> 4275.78] is -[4275.78 --> 4276.46] victorious -[4276.46 --> 4277.60] will -[4277.60 --> 4277.94] not -[4277.94 --> 4278.18] be -[4278.18 --> 4278.50] hurt -[4278.50 --> 4278.84] by -[4278.84 --> 4279.18] at -[4279.18 --> 4279.38] all -[4279.38 --> 4279.54] by -[4279.54 --> 4279.70] the -[4279.70 --> 4279.94] second -[4279.94 --> 4280.30] death -[4280.30 --> 4281.28] and -[4281.28 --> 4281.42] then -[4281.42 --> 4281.54] to -[4281.54 --> 4281.64] the -[4281.64 --> 4281.82] next -[4281.82 --> 4282.08] church -[4282.08 --> 4282.34] verse -[4282.34 --> 4282.98] 17 -[4282.98 --> 4283.78] whoever -[4283.78 --> 4284.20] has -[4284.20 --> 4284.68] ears -[4284.68 --> 4284.98] let -[4284.98 --> 4285.16] them -[4285.16 --> 4285.42] hear -[4285.42 --> 4285.62] what -[4285.62 --> 4285.76] the -[4285.76 --> 4285.98] spirit -[4285.98 --> 4286.36] says -[4286.36 --> 4286.50] to -[4286.50 --> 4286.64] the -[4286.64 --> 4287.04] churches -[4287.04 --> 4287.26] to -[4287.26 --> 4287.42] the -[4287.42 --> 4287.64] one -[4287.64 --> 4287.84] who -[4287.84 --> 4288.10] is -[4288.10 --> 4288.72] victorious -[4288.72 --> 4289.14] I -[4289.14 --> 4289.34] will -[4289.34 --> 4289.64] give -[4289.64 --> 4290.18] some -[4290.18 --> 4290.36] of -[4290.36 --> 4290.50] the -[4290.50 --> 4290.76] hidden -[4290.76 --> 4291.20] manna -[4291.20 --> 4291.32] I -[4291.32 --> 4291.48] will -[4291.48 --> 4291.74] also -[4291.74 --> 4291.94] give -[4291.94 --> 4292.08] that -[4292.08 --> 4292.38] person -[4292.38 --> 4292.60] a -[4292.60 --> 4292.84] white -[4292.84 --> 4293.24] stone -[4293.24 --> 4293.44] with -[4293.44 --> 4293.60] a -[4293.60 --> 4293.80] new -[4293.80 --> 4294.20] name -[4294.20 --> 4294.46] written -[4294.46 --> 4294.72] on -[4294.72 --> 4294.86] it -[4294.86 --> 4295.40] known -[4295.40 --> 4295.90] only -[4295.90 --> 4296.12] by -[4296.12 --> 4296.28] the -[4296.28 --> 4296.54] one -[4296.54 --> 4297.12] who -[4297.12 --> 4297.54] receives -[4297.54 --> 4297.78] it -[4297.78 --> 4298.54] verse -[4298.54 --> 4299.10] 26 -[4299.10 --> 4299.48] we keep -[4299.48 --> 4299.86] going -[4299.86 --> 4300.28] to -[4300.28 --> 4300.40] the -[4300.40 --> 4300.62] one -[4300.62 --> 4300.80] who -[4300.80 --> 4300.96] is -[4300.96 --> 4301.46] victorious -[4301.46 --> 4301.82] and -[4301.82 --> 4302.06] does -[4302.06 --> 4302.34] my -[4302.34 --> 4302.58] will -[4302.58 --> 4302.76] to -[4302.76 --> 4302.90] the -[4302.90 --> 4303.14] end -[4303.14 --> 4303.42] I -[4303.42 --> 4303.60] will -[4303.60 --> 4303.90] give -[4303.90 --> 4304.64] authority -[4304.64 --> 4305.56] over -[4305.56 --> 4305.76] the -[4305.76 --> 4306.22] nations -[4306.22 --> 4307.46] chapter -[4307.46 --> 4307.92] 3 -[4307.92 --> 4308.70] verse -[4308.70 --> 4309.16] 5 -[4309.16 --> 4309.60] the -[4309.60 --> 4309.84] one -[4309.84 --> 4310.02] who -[4310.02 --> 4310.22] is -[4310.22 --> 4310.72] victorious -[4310.72 --> 4311.22] will -[4311.22 --> 4311.60] like -[4311.60 --> 4311.90] them -[4311.90 --> 4312.14] be -[4312.14 --> 4312.56] dressed -[4312.56 --> 4312.96] in -[4312.96 --> 4313.56] white -[4313.56 --> 4314.40] I -[4314.40 --> 4314.52] will -[4314.52 --> 4314.70] never -[4314.70 --> 4315.02] blot -[4315.02 --> 4315.20] out -[4315.20 --> 4315.36] the -[4315.36 --> 4315.62] name -[4315.62 --> 4315.80] of -[4315.80 --> 4315.96] that -[4315.96 --> 4316.30] person -[4316.30 --> 4316.50] from -[4316.50 --> 4316.64] the -[4316.64 --> 4316.80] book -[4316.80 --> 4316.98] of -[4316.98 --> 4317.22] life -[4317.22 --> 4317.40] but -[4317.40 --> 4317.58] will -[4317.58 --> 4318.10] acknowledge -[4318.10 --> 4318.42] that -[4318.42 --> 4318.70] name -[4318.70 --> 4319.08] before -[4319.08 --> 4319.40] my -[4319.40 --> 4319.86] father -[4319.86 --> 4320.42] and -[4320.42 --> 4320.62] his -[4320.62 --> 4320.96] angels -[4320.96 --> 4321.20] just -[4321.20 --> 4321.38] real -[4321.38 --> 4321.58] quick -[4321.58 --> 4321.76] that -[4321.76 --> 4322.00] sounds -[4322.00 --> 4322.20] like -[4322.20 --> 4322.54] constant -[4322.54 --> 4323.10] intercession -[4323.10 --> 4323.38] right -[4323.38 --> 4326.14] and -[4326.14 --> 4326.32] then -[4326.32 --> 4326.72] verse -[4326.72 --> 4327.64] 12 -[4327.64 --> 4328.92] the -[4328.92 --> 4329.14] one -[4329.14 --> 4329.32] who -[4329.32 --> 4329.48] is -[4329.48 --> 4329.98] victorious -[4329.98 --> 4330.26] I -[4330.26 --> 4330.40] will -[4330.40 --> 4330.62] make -[4330.62 --> 4330.76] a -[4330.76 --> 4331.00] pillar -[4331.00 --> 4331.18] in -[4331.18 --> 4331.30] the -[4331.30 --> 4331.56] temple -[4331.56 --> 4331.78] of -[4331.78 --> 4331.96] my -[4331.96 --> 4332.24] God -[4332.24 --> 4332.56] never -[4332.56 --> 4333.00] again -[4333.00 --> 4333.20] will -[4333.20 --> 4333.34] they -[4333.34 --> 4333.60] leave -[4333.60 --> 4333.72] it -[4333.72 --> 4334.08] I -[4334.08 --> 4334.26] will -[4334.26 --> 4334.52] write -[4334.52 --> 4334.74] on -[4334.74 --> 4334.94] them -[4334.94 --> 4335.10] the -[4335.10 --> 4335.40] name -[4335.40 --> 4335.56] of -[4335.56 --> 4335.72] my -[4335.72 --> 4336.04] God -[4336.04 --> 4336.22] the -[4336.22 --> 4336.48] name -[4336.48 --> 4336.60] of -[4336.60 --> 4336.74] the -[4336.74 --> 4336.96] city -[4336.96 --> 4337.16] of -[4337.16 --> 4337.36] my -[4337.36 --> 4337.62] God -[4337.62 --> 4337.78] the -[4337.78 --> 4338.04] new -[4338.04 --> 4338.46] Jerusalem -[4338.46 --> 4338.80] which -[4338.80 --> 4339.04] is -[4339.04 --> 4339.34] coming -[4339.34 --> 4339.70] down -[4339.70 --> 4339.92] out -[4339.92 --> 4340.04] of -[4340.04 --> 4340.24] heaven -[4340.24 --> 4340.48] from -[4340.48 --> 4340.68] my -[4340.68 --> 4340.94] God -[4340.94 --> 4341.48] and -[4341.48 --> 4341.62] I -[4341.62 --> 4341.80] will -[4341.80 --> 4342.14] also -[4342.14 --> 4342.46] write -[4342.46 --> 4342.68] on -[4342.68 --> 4342.92] them -[4342.92 --> 4343.16] a -[4343.16 --> 4343.42] new -[4343.42 --> 4344.20] name -[4344.20 --> 4344.36] and -[4344.36 --> 4344.48] then -[4344.48 --> 4344.78] finally -[4344.78 --> 4345.36] 21 -[4345.36 --> 4346.46] to -[4346.46 --> 4346.60] the -[4346.60 --> 4346.84] one -[4346.84 --> 4347.00] who -[4347.00 --> 4347.24] is -[4347.24 --> 4347.72] victorious -[4347.72 --> 4348.06] I -[4348.06 --> 4348.22] will -[4348.22 --> 4348.42] give -[4348.42 --> 4348.58] the -[4348.58 --> 4348.80] right -[4348.80 --> 4349.00] to -[4349.00 --> 4349.30] sit -[4349.30 --> 4349.52] with -[4349.52 --> 4349.76] me -[4349.76 --> 4350.08] on -[4360.76 --> 4364.08] Jesus -[4364.08 --> 4364.36] says -[4364.36 --> 4364.56] in -[4364.56 --> 4364.78] this -[4364.78 --> 4365.06] world -[4365.06 --> 4365.26] you -[4365.26 --> 4365.42] will -[4365.42 --> 4365.58] have -[4365.58 --> 4365.98] trouble -[4365.98 --> 4366.80] but -[4366.80 --> 4367.00] take -[4367.00 --> 4367.36] heart -[4367.36 --> 4368.04] I -[4368.04 --> 4368.28] have -[4368.28 --> 4369.00] overcome -[4369.00 --> 4369.80] the -[4369.80 --> 4370.12] world -[4370.12 --> 4371.56] you -[4371.56 --> 4372.40] are -[4372.40 --> 4372.98] named -[4372.98 --> 4374.14] victorious -[4374.14 --> 4375.28] in -[4375.28 --> 4375.62] him -[4375.62 --> 4375.84] as -[4375.84 --> 4376.20] an -[4376.20 --> 4376.90] overcomer -[4376.90 --> 4377.06] if -[4377.06 --> 4377.18] you -[4377.18 --> 4377.82] persevere -[4377.82 --> 4378.24] to -[4378.24 --> 4378.38] the -[4378.38 --> 4378.60] end -[4378.60 --> 4378.82] in -[4378.82 --> 4379.18] life -[4379.18 --> 4379.54] and -[4379.54 --> 4380.06] even -[4380.06 --> 4380.52] in -[4380.52 --> 4381.32] death -[4381.32 --> 4382.20] this -[4382.20 --> 4382.40] is -[4382.40 --> 4382.58] who -[4382.58 --> 4382.78] you -[4382.78 --> 4383.20] are -[4383.20 --> 4384.74] victorious -[4384.74 --> 4386.22] and -[4386.22 --> 4386.46] so -[4386.46 --> 4387.22] sin -[4387.22 --> 4387.86] doesn't -[4387.86 --> 4388.28] define -[4388.28 --> 4388.56] you -[4388.56 --> 4389.38] yes -[4389.38 --> 4389.68] it's -[4389.68 --> 4389.84] still -[4389.84 --> 4390.14] there -[4390.14 --> 4391.38] except -[4391.38 --> 4391.58] for -[4391.58 --> 4391.76] maybe -[4391.76 --> 4391.92] the -[4391.92 --> 4392.12] most -[4392.12 --> 4392.66] sanctified -[4392.66 --> 4392.90] among -[4392.90 --> 4393.12] us -[4393.12 --> 4393.34] but -[4393.34 --> 4393.76] if -[4393.76 --> 4393.90] you -[4393.90 --> 4394.14] say -[4394.14 --> 4394.44] that's -[4394.44 --> 4394.68] you -[4394.68 --> 4397.64] but -[4397.64 --> 4397.80] it's -[4397.80 --> 4398.02] not -[4398.02 --> 4398.18] who -[4398.18 --> 4398.34] you -[4398.34 --> 4398.76] are -[4398.76 --> 4399.92] right -[4399.92 --> 4400.68] wandering -[4400.68 --> 4401.32] doesn't -[4401.32 --> 4401.90] define -[4401.90 --> 4402.10] you -[4402.10 --> 4402.24] and -[4402.24 --> 4402.46] sure -[4402.46 --> 4402.66] it -[4402.66 --> 4403.28] happens -[4403.28 --> 4404.06] but -[4404.06 --> 4404.36] now -[4404.36 --> 4404.62] we -[4404.62 --> 4404.76] are -[4404.76 --> 4404.90] the -[4404.90 --> 4405.60] wonder -[4405.60 --> 4406.04] of -[4406.04 --> 4406.46] Jesus -[4406.46 --> 4406.74] the -[4406.74 --> 4407.44] joy -[4407.44 --> 4407.64] that -[4407.64 --> 4407.86] was -[4407.86 --> 4408.22] before -[4408.22 --> 4408.40] him -[4408.40 --> 4408.54] as -[4408.54 --> 4408.66] he -[4408.66 --> 4409.18] claims -[4409.18 --> 4409.42] his -[4409.42 --> 4409.86] inheritance -[4409.86 --> 4410.44] your -[4410.44 --> 4411.06] past -[4411.06 --> 4411.58] no matter -[4411.58 --> 4411.80] how -[4411.80 --> 4412.40] scarred -[4412.40 --> 4412.54] or -[4412.54 --> 4412.90] bleak -[4412.90 --> 4413.14] or -[4413.14 --> 4413.76] dark -[4413.76 --> 4414.00] it -[4414.00 --> 4414.16] may -[4414.16 --> 4414.32] be -[4414.32 --> 4414.68] doesn't -[4414.68 --> 4415.04] define -[4415.04 --> 4415.22] you -[4415.22 --> 4415.52] sure -[4415.52 --> 4415.72] it -[4415.72 --> 4415.86] is -[4415.86 --> 4416.32] real -[4416.32 --> 4416.74] and -[4416.74 --> 4416.84] it -[4416.84 --> 4417.02] still -[4417.02 --> 4417.20] has -[4417.20 --> 4417.78] consequences -[4417.78 --> 4418.04] for -[4418.04 --> 4418.20] the -[4418.20 --> 4418.52] present -[4418.52 --> 4419.00] but -[4419.00 --> 4419.22] in -[4419.22 --> 4419.64] Jesus -[4419.64 --> 4419.98] you -[4419.98 --> 4420.12] are -[4420.12 --> 4420.28] made -[4420.28 --> 4420.88] perfect -[4420.88 --> 4422.02] fear -[4422.02 --> 4422.44] doesn't -[4422.44 --> 4422.90] define -[4422.90 --> 4423.22] you -[4423.22 --> 4423.66] yes -[4423.66 --> 4423.94] it's -[4423.94 --> 4424.36] real -[4424.36 --> 4424.60] and -[4424.60 --> 4425.08] perhaps -[4425.08 --> 4425.44] it's -[4425.44 --> 4425.64] even -[4425.64 --> 4425.84] an -[4425.84 --> 4426.06] ever -[4426.06 --> 4426.44] present -[4426.44 --> 4427.02] darkness -[4427.02 --> 4427.64] for -[4427.64 --> 4427.86] some -[4427.86 --> 4427.98] of -[4427.98 --> 4428.16] us -[4428.16 --> 4428.54] but -[4428.54 --> 4429.06] now -[4429.06 --> 4429.42] the -[4429.42 --> 4429.90] courage -[4429.90 --> 4430.12] of -[4430.12 --> 4430.56] God -[4430.56 --> 4430.82] is -[4430.82 --> 4431.70] available -[4431.70 --> 4432.08] and -[4432.08 --> 4432.30] in -[4432.30 --> 4432.48] your -[4432.48 --> 4432.92] heart -[4432.92 --> 4433.56] and -[4433.56 --> 4434.24] worship -[4434.24 --> 4434.90] right -[4434.90 --> 4435.66] worship -[4435.66 --> 4436.06] worship -[4436.06 --> 4436.34] that -[4436.34 --> 4437.04] ascends -[4437.04 --> 4437.74] tells -[4437.74 --> 4438.00] you -[4438.00 --> 4438.46] again -[4438.46 --> 4438.74] and -[4438.74 --> 4439.06] again -[4439.06 --> 4439.28] and -[4439.28 --> 4439.54] again -[4439.54 --> 4440.18] exactly -[4440.18 --> 4440.80] who -[4440.80 --> 4441.00] you -[4441.00 --> 4441.28] are -[4441.28 --> 4441.48] and -[4441.48 --> 4441.70] there's -[4441.70 --> 4442.22] nothing -[4442.22 --> 4442.74] ordinary -[4442.74 --> 4443.48] about -[4443.48 --> 4443.70] who -[4443.70 --> 4443.86] you -[4443.86 --> 4444.16] are -[4444.16 --> 4444.56] not -[4444.56 --> 4444.98] anymore -[4444.98 --> 4446.54] and -[4446.54 --> 4446.74] we -[4446.74 --> 4446.96] are -[4446.96 --> 4447.42] then -[4447.42 --> 4447.82] given -[4447.82 --> 4448.22] a -[4448.22 --> 4448.60] picture -[4448.60 --> 4448.92] of -[4448.92 --> 4449.06] what -[4449.06 --> 4449.52] John -[4449.52 --> 4450.04] sees -[4450.04 --> 4450.28] when -[4450.28 --> 4450.48] he -[4450.48 --> 4451.10] looks -[4451.10 --> 4451.54] at -[4451.54 --> 4451.90] heaven -[4451.90 --> 4452.10] when -[4452.10 --> 4452.24] he -[4452.24 --> 4452.50] looks -[4452.50 --> 4452.92] at -[4452.92 --> 4453.10] the -[4453.10 --> 4453.44] throne -[4453.44 --> 4453.80] room -[4453.80 --> 4454.78] of -[4454.78 --> 4455.14] God -[4455.14 --> 4456.54] at -[4456.54 --> 4456.84] once -[4456.84 --> 4457.06] I -[4457.06 --> 4457.22] was -[4457.22 --> 4457.36] in -[4457.36 --> 4457.52] the -[4457.52 --> 4457.84] spirit -[4457.84 --> 4458.02] and -[4458.02 --> 4458.18] there -[4458.18 --> 4458.50] before -[4458.50 --> 4458.68] me -[4458.68 --> 4458.84] was -[4458.84 --> 4458.98] a -[4458.98 --> 4459.32] throne -[4459.32 --> 4459.60] in -[4459.60 --> 4459.92] heaven -[4459.92 --> 4460.20] with -[4460.20 --> 4460.52] someone -[4460.52 --> 4460.92] sitting -[4460.92 --> 4461.14] on -[4461.14 --> 4461.26] it -[4461.26 --> 4461.64] and -[4461.64 --> 4461.74] the -[4461.74 --> 4461.90] one -[4461.90 --> 4462.06] who -[4462.06 --> 4462.36] sat -[4462.36 --> 4462.56] there -[4462.56 --> 4462.74] had -[4462.74 --> 4462.88] the -[4462.88 --> 4463.26] appearance -[4463.26 --> 4463.44] of -[4463.44 --> 4464.04] jasper -[4464.04 --> 4464.54] and -[4464.54 --> 4464.72] a -[4464.72 --> 4465.04] ruby -[4465.04 --> 4465.20] and -[4465.20 --> 4465.36] a -[4465.36 --> 4465.64] rainbow -[4465.64 --> 4466.10] shone -[4466.10 --> 4466.32] like -[4466.32 --> 4466.46] an -[4466.46 --> 4466.78] emerald -[4466.78 --> 4467.32] encircled -[4467.32 --> 4467.50] the -[4467.50 --> 4467.80] throne -[4467.80 --> 4468.62] surrounding -[4468.62 --> 4469.10] the throne -[4469.10 --> 4469.26] were -[4469.26 --> 4469.74] twenty-four -[4469.74 --> 4470.04] other -[4470.04 --> 4470.40] thrones -[4470.40 --> 4470.56] and -[4470.56 --> 4470.72] on -[4470.72 --> 4470.86] them -[4470.86 --> 4471.02] were -[4471.02 --> 4471.24] seated -[4471.24 --> 4471.80] twenty-four -[4471.80 --> 4472.42] elders -[4472.42 --> 4472.62] and -[4472.62 --> 4472.72] they -[4472.72 --> 4472.84] were -[4472.84 --> 4473.12] dressed -[4473.12 --> 4473.34] in -[4473.34 --> 4473.60] white -[4473.60 --> 4473.72] and -[4473.72 --> 4473.90] had -[4473.90 --> 4474.30] crowns -[4474.30 --> 4474.42] of -[4474.42 --> 4474.74] gold -[4474.74 --> 4474.94] on -[4474.94 --> 4475.04] their -[4475.04 --> 4475.30] head -[4475.30 --> 4475.46] and -[4475.46 --> 4475.70] from -[4475.70 --> 4475.90] the -[4475.90 --> 4476.20] throne -[4476.20 --> 4476.46] came -[4476.46 --> 4476.90] flashes -[4476.90 --> 4477.18] of -[4477.18 --> 4477.56] lightning -[4477.56 --> 4478.04] and -[4478.04 --> 4478.50] rumblings -[4478.50 --> 4478.68] and -[4478.68 --> 4479.04] peals -[4479.04 --> 4479.20] of -[4479.20 --> 4479.56] thunder -[4479.56 --> 4480.02] and -[4480.02 --> 4480.16] in -[4480.16 --> 4480.34] front -[4480.34 --> 4480.46] of -[4480.46 --> 4480.58] the -[4480.58 --> 4480.82] throne -[4480.82 --> 4481.24] seven -[4481.24 --> 4481.58] lamps -[4481.58 --> 4481.74] were -[4481.74 --> 4482.20] blazing -[4482.20 --> 4482.72] these -[4482.72 --> 4482.88] are -[4482.88 --> 4483.00] the -[4483.00 --> 4483.24] seven -[4483.24 --> 4483.64] spirits -[4483.64 --> 4483.80] of -[4483.80 --> 4484.06] God -[4484.06 --> 4484.22] and -[4484.22 --> 4484.38] in -[4484.38 --> 4484.54] front -[4484.54 --> 4484.64] of -[4484.64 --> 4484.76] the -[4484.76 --> 4485.02] throne -[4485.02 --> 4485.18] there -[4485.18 --> 4485.30] was -[4485.30 --> 4485.42] what -[4485.42 --> 4485.66] looked -[4485.66 --> 4485.86] like -[4485.86 --> 4486.00] a -[4486.00 --> 4486.28] sea -[4486.28 --> 4486.50] of -[4486.50 --> 4486.94] glass -[4486.94 --> 4487.62] clear -[4487.62 --> 4488.10] as -[4488.10 --> 4488.54] crystal -[4488.54 --> 4490.42] now -[4490.42 --> 4490.52] I'm -[4490.52 --> 4490.68] not -[4490.68 --> 4491.52] really -[4491.52 --> 4491.90] interested -[4491.90 --> 4492.32] in -[4492.32 --> 4493.06] parsing -[4493.06 --> 4493.28] out -[4493.28 --> 4493.86] exactly -[4493.86 --> 4494.14] what -[4494.14 --> 4494.94] image -[4494.94 --> 4495.20] that -[4495.20 --> 4495.38] might -[4495.38 --> 4495.64] mean -[4495.64 --> 4495.78] or -[4495.78 --> 4495.92] what -[4495.92 --> 4496.04] the -[4496.04 --> 4496.40] numbers -[4496.40 --> 4496.96] might -[4496.96 --> 4497.20] be -[4497.20 --> 4497.38] because -[4497.38 --> 4497.54] I'm -[4497.54 --> 4497.68] not -[4497.68 --> 4497.86] sure -[4497.86 --> 4498.02] that -[4498.02 --> 4498.26] that's -[4498.26 --> 4498.82] particularly -[4498.82 --> 4499.70] relevant -[4499.70 --> 4500.04] I don't -[4500.04 --> 4500.28] know if -[4500.28 --> 4500.64] that really -[4500.64 --> 4501.20] matters -[4501.20 --> 4501.42] what -[4501.42 --> 4502.16] matters -[4502.16 --> 4502.36] is -[4502.36 --> 4502.50] the -[4502.50 --> 4503.26] picture -[4503.26 --> 4503.94] is -[4503.94 --> 4504.34] the -[4504.34 --> 4504.94] scope -[4504.94 --> 4505.38] and -[4505.38 --> 4505.60] the -[4505.60 --> 4506.06] majesty -[4506.06 --> 4506.54] and -[4506.54 --> 4506.78] the -[4506.78 --> 4507.34] mystery -[4507.34 --> 4507.86] of -[4507.86 --> 4508.10] what's -[4508.10 --> 4508.48] presented -[4508.48 --> 4509.78] I don't -[4509.78 --> 4509.88] know -[4509.88 --> 4510.04] about -[4510.04 --> 4510.20] you -[4510.20 --> 4510.38] but -[4510.38 --> 4510.74] when -[4510.74 --> 4510.90] I -[4510.90 --> 4511.22] read -[4511.22 --> 4511.60] this -[4511.60 --> 4512.80] my -[4512.80 --> 4513.30] heart -[4513.30 --> 4514.04] is -[4514.04 --> 4515.06] stirred -[4515.06 --> 4516.10] and -[4516.10 --> 4516.22] my -[4516.22 --> 4516.74] imagination -[4516.74 --> 4517.60] is -[4517.60 --> 4518.68] captivated -[4518.68 --> 4519.34] by what's -[4519.34 --> 4519.50] being -[4519.50 --> 4519.90] presented -[4519.90 --> 4520.26] there -[4520.26 --> 4520.86] right -[4520.86 --> 4521.02] because -[4521.02 --> 4521.16] we're -[4521.16 --> 4521.38] talking -[4521.38 --> 4521.56] about -[4521.56 --> 4521.72] the -[4521.72 --> 4522.28] dwelling -[4522.28 --> 4522.60] place -[4522.60 --> 4522.76] of -[4522.76 --> 4522.98] God -[4522.98 --> 4523.12] and -[4523.12 --> 4523.22] so -[4523.22 --> 4523.38] of -[4523.38 --> 4523.66] course -[4523.66 --> 4523.98] there's -[4523.98 --> 4524.38] beauty -[4524.38 --> 4524.80] of -[4524.80 --> 4525.06] course -[4525.06 --> 4525.30] that -[4525.30 --> 4525.68] has -[4525.68 --> 4526.08] precious -[4526.08 --> 4526.46] gems -[4526.46 --> 4526.70] of -[4526.70 --> 4526.94] course -[4526.94 --> 4527.24] there's -[4527.24 --> 4527.60] thunder -[4527.60 --> 4528.08] and -[4528.08 --> 4528.32] there's -[4528.32 --> 4528.64] lightning -[4528.64 --> 4528.84] of -[4528.84 --> 4529.04] course -[4529.04 --> 4529.30] there's -[4529.30 --> 4529.94] majesty -[4529.94 --> 4530.40] and -[4530.40 --> 4530.84] perfection -[4530.84 --> 4531.36] and -[4531.36 --> 4531.82] beautiness -[4531.82 --> 4532.08] of -[4532.08 --> 4532.38] course -[4532.38 --> 4532.80] the -[4532.80 --> 4533.26] holiness -[4533.26 --> 4533.56] of -[4533.56 --> 4533.80] God -[4533.80 --> 4534.02] is -[4534.02 --> 4534.80] proclaimed -[4534.80 --> 4536.40] that's -[4536.40 --> 4536.74] not even -[4536.74 --> 4537.12] all of -[4537.12 --> 4537.34] it -[4537.34 --> 4537.74] right -[4537.74 --> 4538.10] words -[4538.10 --> 4538.46] can't -[4538.46 --> 4538.90] contain -[4538.90 --> 4539.26] all -[4539.26 --> 4539.40] of -[4539.40 --> 4539.54] it -[4539.54 --> 4539.92] and -[4539.92 --> 4540.42] it's -[4540.42 --> 4540.94] even -[4540.94 --> 4541.20] as -[4541.20 --> 4541.36] our -[4541.36 --> 4541.68] minds -[4541.68 --> 4542.46] barely -[4542.46 --> 4542.82] begin -[4542.82 --> 4543.02] to -[4543.02 --> 4543.36] comprehend -[4543.36 --> 4543.56] it -[4543.56 --> 4543.72] even -[4543.72 --> 4543.88] as -[4543.88 --> 4544.04] we're -[4544.04 --> 4544.56] living -[4544.56 --> 4544.76] in -[4544.76 --> 4544.92] the -[4544.92 --> 4545.36] mystery -[4545.36 --> 4545.60] of -[4545.60 --> 4545.70] what -[4545.70 --> 4545.84] is -[4545.84 --> 4546.16] taking -[4546.16 --> 4546.76] place -[4546.76 --> 4547.52] here -[4547.52 --> 4548.72] the -[4548.72 --> 4549.10] more -[4549.10 --> 4549.24] I -[4549.24 --> 4549.54] think -[4549.54 --> 4549.88] about -[4549.88 --> 4550.14] it -[4550.14 --> 4550.70] or -[4550.70 --> 4550.98] try -[4550.98 --> 4551.16] to -[4551.16 --> 4551.98] see -[4551.98 --> 4552.18] it -[4552.18 --> 4552.42] and -[4552.42 --> 4552.98] participate -[4552.98 --> 4553.38] it -[4553.38 --> 4554.00] it's -[4554.00 --> 4554.34] less -[4554.34 --> 4555.18] concrete -[4555.18 --> 4555.50] and -[4555.50 --> 4555.78] just -[4555.78 --> 4556.54] becomes -[4556.54 --> 4557.04] a -[4557.04 --> 4557.98] feeling -[4557.98 --> 4561.30] the -[4561.30 --> 4561.62] center -[4561.62 --> 4562.10] around -[4562.10 --> 4562.30] the -[4562.30 --> 4562.60] throne -[4562.60 --> 4562.82] were -[4562.82 --> 4563.04] four -[4563.04 --> 4563.30] living -[4563.30 --> 4563.68] creatures -[4563.68 --> 4563.92] and -[4563.92 --> 4564.02] they -[4564.02 --> 4564.14] were -[4564.14 --> 4564.38] covered -[4564.38 --> 4564.56] with -[4564.56 --> 4564.90] eyes -[4564.90 --> 4565.34] in front -[4565.34 --> 4565.50] and -[4565.50 --> 4565.82] back -[4565.82 --> 4565.96] and -[4565.96 --> 4566.08] the -[4566.08 --> 4566.30] first -[4566.30 --> 4566.52] living -[4566.52 --> 4566.80] creature -[4566.80 --> 4567.00] was -[4567.00 --> 4567.14] like -[4567.14 --> 4567.28] a -[4567.28 --> 4567.52] lion -[4567.52 --> 4567.74] the -[4567.74 --> 4567.94] second -[4567.94 --> 4568.16] like -[4568.16 --> 4568.30] an -[4568.30 --> 4568.54] ox -[4568.54 --> 4568.72] the -[4568.72 --> 4568.92] third -[4572.46 --> 4573.36] each -[4573.36 --> 4573.48] of -[4573.48 --> 4573.58] the -[4573.58 --> 4573.80] four -[4573.80 --> 4574.04] living -[4574.04 --> 4574.38] creatures -[4574.38 --> 4574.56] had -[4574.56 --> 4574.86] six -[4574.86 --> 4575.14] wings -[4575.14 --> 4575.32] and -[4575.32 --> 4575.64] covered -[4575.64 --> 4575.84] with -[4575.84 --> 4576.12] eyes -[4576.12 --> 4576.32] all -[4576.32 --> 4576.62] around -[4576.62 --> 4576.88] them -[4576.88 --> 4577.42] and -[4577.42 --> 4577.70] under -[4577.70 --> 4577.92] its -[4577.92 --> 4578.24] wings -[4578.24 --> 4579.34] now -[4579.34 --> 4580.22] most -[4580.22 --> 4581.06] scholars -[4581.06 --> 4581.44] agree -[4581.44 --> 4581.68] that -[4581.68 --> 4581.90] what's -[4581.90 --> 4582.18] happening -[4582.18 --> 4582.42] here -[4582.42 --> 4582.58] is -[4582.58 --> 4582.72] you're -[4582.72 --> 4582.90] just -[4582.90 --> 4583.18] seeing -[4583.18 --> 4583.36] a -[4583.36 --> 4583.58] picture -[4583.58 --> 4583.80] of -[4583.80 --> 4584.24] all -[4584.24 --> 4584.48] of -[4584.48 --> 4584.96] creation -[4584.96 --> 4585.14] the -[4585.14 --> 4585.32] very -[4585.32 --> 4585.94] parts -[4585.94 --> 4586.22] of -[4586.22 --> 4586.74] creation -[4586.74 --> 4587.56] coming -[4587.56 --> 4587.96] back -[4587.96 --> 4588.24] to -[4588.24 --> 4588.98] worship -[4588.98 --> 4589.42] God -[4589.42 --> 4589.66] right -[4589.66 --> 4589.94] back -[4589.94 --> 4590.12] to -[4590.12 --> 4590.48] Genesis -[4590.48 --> 4590.88] 1 -[4590.88 --> 4591.06] where -[4591.06 --> 4591.30] all -[4591.30 --> 4591.48] the -[4591.48 --> 4591.68] living -[4591.68 --> 4592.20] animals -[4592.20 --> 4592.96] come -[4592.96 --> 4593.36] together -[4593.36 --> 4593.60] in -[4593.60 --> 4594.28] worship -[4594.28 --> 4594.50] our -[4594.50 --> 4594.74] God -[4594.74 --> 4595.04] in -[4595.04 --> 4595.36] just -[4595.36 --> 4595.76] back -[4595.76 --> 4595.96] to -[4595.96 --> 4596.24] Psalm -[4596.24 --> 4596.88] 19 -[4596.88 --> 4597.24] where -[4597.24 --> 4597.58] the -[4597.58 --> 4598.32] creation -[4598.32 --> 4598.96] proclaims -[4598.96 --> 4599.10] the -[4599.10 --> 4599.46] glory -[4599.46 --> 4600.16] of -[4600.16 --> 4600.52] God -[4600.52 --> 4604.86] here's -[4604.86 --> 4605.08] what we -[4605.08 --> 4605.28] know -[4605.28 --> 4606.54] that -[4606.54 --> 4607.26] I -[4607.26 --> 4607.74] exist -[4607.74 --> 4607.98] that -[4607.98 --> 4608.42] we -[4608.42 --> 4609.14] exist -[4609.14 --> 4609.62] to -[4609.62 --> 4610.44] worship -[4610.44 --> 4610.90] God -[4610.90 --> 4611.10] to -[4611.10 --> 4611.80] glorify -[4611.80 --> 4612.10] Him -[4612.10 --> 4612.48] and -[4612.48 --> 4612.94] enjoy -[4612.94 --> 4613.18] Him -[4613.18 --> 4613.50] forever -[4613.50 --> 4613.78] we -[4613.78 --> 4614.36] exist -[4614.36 --> 4615.08] for -[4615.08 --> 4615.24] the -[4615.24 --> 4615.48] glory -[4615.48 --> 4615.64] of -[4615.64 --> 4615.80] God -[4615.80 --> 4616.02] that -[4616.02 --> 4616.24] is -[4616.24 --> 4616.48] our -[4616.48 --> 4617.14] purpose -[4617.14 --> 4617.38] and -[4617.38 --> 4617.52] we -[4617.52 --> 4617.72] know -[4617.72 --> 4617.90] that -[4617.90 --> 4618.18] all -[4618.18 --> 4618.36] of -[4618.36 --> 4618.90] creation -[4618.90 --> 4619.78] exists -[4619.78 --> 4620.04] for -[4620.04 --> 4620.20] the -[4620.20 --> 4620.80] glory -[4620.80 --> 4621.04] of -[4621.04 --> 4621.34] God -[4621.34 --> 4621.76] and -[4621.76 --> 4622.16] right -[4622.16 --> 4622.66] now -[4622.66 --> 4623.24] in -[4623.24 --> 4623.58] heaven -[4623.58 --> 4624.10] hear -[4624.10 --> 4624.82] that -[4624.82 --> 4625.00] again -[4625.00 --> 4625.30] right -[4625.30 --> 4625.94] now -[4625.94 --> 4626.50] in -[4626.50 --> 4626.90] heaven -[4626.90 --> 4627.70] God -[4627.70 --> 4628.08] is -[4628.08 --> 4628.50] being -[4628.50 --> 4629.44] worshipped -[4629.44 --> 4630.06] day -[4630.06 --> 4630.44] and -[4630.44 --> 4630.84] night -[4630.84 --> 4631.34] they -[4631.34 --> 4631.76] never -[4631.76 --> 4632.24] stop -[4632.24 --> 4632.70] saying -[4632.70 --> 4633.26] holy -[4633.26 --> 4633.82] holy -[4633.82 --> 4634.26] holy -[4634.26 --> 4634.56] is -[4634.56 --> 4634.72] the -[4634.72 --> 4634.94] Lord -[4634.94 --> 4635.26] God -[4635.26 --> 4635.70] almighty -[4635.70 --> 4635.94] who -[4635.94 --> 4636.32] was -[4636.32 --> 4636.52] and -[4636.52 --> 4636.90] is -[4636.90 --> 4637.42] and -[4637.42 --> 4637.66] is -[4637.66 --> 4637.84] to -[4637.84 --> 4638.18] come -[4638.18 --> 4638.80] right -[4638.80 --> 4638.90] they -[4638.90 --> 4639.04] are -[4639.04 --> 4639.86] always -[4639.86 --> 4640.74] worshipping -[4640.74 --> 4641.10] day -[4641.10 --> 4641.36] and -[4641.36 --> 4641.64] night -[4641.64 --> 4642.48] and -[4642.48 --> 4642.62] then -[4642.62 --> 4643.02] notice -[4643.02 --> 4643.60] right -[4643.60 --> 4644.18] verse -[4644.18 --> 4644.56] nine -[4644.56 --> 4645.86] whenever -[4645.86 --> 4647.04] whenever -[4647.04 --> 4647.94] the living -[4647.94 --> 4648.50] creatures -[4648.50 --> 4649.40] give -[4649.40 --> 4650.20] glory -[4650.20 --> 4651.62] whenever -[4651.62 --> 4652.48] the living -[4652.48 --> 4652.98] creatures -[4652.98 --> 4653.58] worship -[4653.58 --> 4654.66] the elders -[4654.66 --> 4655.80] worship -[4655.80 --> 4656.54] day -[4656.54 --> 4657.12] and night -[4657.12 --> 4657.32] they -[4657.32 --> 4657.78] never -[4657.78 --> 4658.32] stop -[4658.32 --> 4659.28] worshipping -[4659.28 --> 4659.80] whenever -[4659.80 --> 4660.08] they -[4660.08 --> 4660.42] worship -[4660.42 --> 4660.94] the elders -[4660.94 --> 4661.66] worship -[4661.66 --> 4661.92] and so -[4661.92 --> 4662.18] put it -[4662.18 --> 4662.32] all -[4662.32 --> 4662.64] together -[4662.64 --> 4662.90] right -[4662.90 --> 4663.40] day -[4663.40 --> 4663.64] and -[4663.64 --> 4663.86] night -[4663.86 --> 4664.04] they -[4664.04 --> 4664.26] never -[4664.26 --> 4664.66] stop -[4664.66 --> 4665.12] whenever -[4665.12 --> 4665.76] they -[4665.76 --> 4666.24] worship -[4666.24 --> 4667.28] and so -[4667.28 --> 4667.56] when -[4667.56 --> 4667.76] is -[4667.76 --> 4668.04] heaven -[4668.04 --> 4668.60] worshipping -[4668.60 --> 4671.12] it's a real -[4671.12 --> 4671.48] question -[4671.48 --> 4673.00] always -[4673.00 --> 4674.20] absolutely -[4674.20 --> 4675.78] and so -[4675.78 --> 4676.06] what does -[4676.06 --> 4676.40] that mean -[4676.40 --> 4676.90] for our -[4676.90 --> 4677.42] worship -[4677.42 --> 4679.90] that there's -[4679.90 --> 4680.12] nothing -[4680.12 --> 4680.50] ordinary -[4680.50 --> 4681.40] about it -[4681.40 --> 4682.32] because -[4682.32 --> 4682.68] we are -[4682.68 --> 4683.22] invited -[4683.22 --> 4684.06] up into -[4684.06 --> 4684.62] the worship -[4684.62 --> 4685.20] of heaven -[4685.20 --> 4685.74] which is -[4685.74 --> 4686.04] happening -[4686.04 --> 4686.76] always -[4686.76 --> 4688.06] it means -[4688.06 --> 4688.38] that when -[4688.38 --> 4689.12] we gather -[4689.12 --> 4689.86] we are -[4689.86 --> 4690.22] joining -[4690.22 --> 4690.58] with the -[4690.58 --> 4690.94] voices -[4690.94 --> 4691.76] of heaven -[4691.76 --> 4692.10] it means -[4692.10 --> 4692.38] that we -[4692.38 --> 4692.86] are singing -[4692.86 --> 4693.64] praises -[4693.64 --> 4694.00] with the -[4694.00 --> 4694.38] praises -[4694.38 --> 4695.06] of creation -[4695.06 --> 4695.68] in concert -[4695.68 --> 4696.50] for the -[4696.50 --> 4696.78] glory -[4696.78 --> 4697.14] of our -[4697.14 --> 4697.42] God -[4697.42 --> 4697.56] right -[4697.56 --> 4698.08] that in -[4698.08 --> 4698.62] ordinary -[4698.62 --> 4699.16] worship -[4699.16 --> 4699.60] we are -[4699.60 --> 4700.28] being pulled -[4700.28 --> 4700.96] into the -[4700.96 --> 4701.52] everyday -[4701.52 --> 4702.76] every moment -[4702.76 --> 4703.54] of worship -[4703.54 --> 4704.28] of our -[4704.28 --> 4704.52] God -[4704.52 --> 4704.76] and there -[4704.76 --> 4705.52] is nothing -[4705.52 --> 4706.20] ordinary -[4706.20 --> 4707.00] about that -[4707.00 --> 4709.42] and if you -[4709.42 --> 4709.62] have your -[4709.62 --> 4710.18] Bible open -[4710.18 --> 4710.50] and we're not -[4710.50 --> 4710.76] going to do -[4710.76 --> 4711.14] this line -[4711.14 --> 4711.62] by line -[4711.62 --> 4713.04] but you -[4713.04 --> 4713.48] can see -[4713.48 --> 4714.02] that chapter -[4714.02 --> 4715.14] 5 is a -[4715.14 --> 4715.76] parallel to -[4715.76 --> 4716.48] chapter 4 -[4716.48 --> 4717.02] but in -[4717.02 --> 4717.72] chapter 5 -[4717.72 --> 4718.16] it's about -[4718.16 --> 4718.74] Jesus -[4718.74 --> 4720.54] Jesus -[4720.54 --> 4721.54] because he -[4721.54 --> 4722.04] is the -[4722.04 --> 4722.88] lamb who -[4722.88 --> 4723.32] has been -[4723.32 --> 4723.86] slain -[4723.86 --> 4724.70] is found -[4724.70 --> 4725.64] worthy to -[4725.64 --> 4726.14] open the -[4726.14 --> 4726.38] scroll -[4726.38 --> 4726.80] Jesus -[4726.80 --> 4727.52] because he -[4727.52 --> 4727.86] is the -[4727.86 --> 4728.46] lion of -[4728.46 --> 4728.74] Judah -[4728.74 --> 4729.48] Jesus -[4729.48 --> 4730.08] because he -[4730.08 --> 4730.78] alone is -[4730.78 --> 4731.28] worthy to -[4731.28 --> 4731.72] take the -[4731.72 --> 4732.32] scroll and -[4732.32 --> 4732.78] to open -[4732.78 --> 4733.30] it is -[4733.30 --> 4734.20] worthy of -[4734.20 --> 4735.04] our praise -[4735.04 --> 4736.20] and our -[4736.20 --> 4737.46] glorifying -[4737.46 --> 4738.28] worthy is -[4738.28 --> 4738.74] the lamb -[4738.74 --> 4739.06] who was -[4739.06 --> 4739.60] slain to -[4739.60 --> 4740.34] receive power -[4740.34 --> 4740.90] and wealth -[4740.90 --> 4741.40] and wisdom -[4741.40 --> 4741.92] and strength -[4741.92 --> 4742.42] and honor -[4742.42 --> 4743.28] and glory -[4743.28 --> 4743.96] and praise -[4743.96 --> 4744.84] to him -[4744.84 --> 4745.36] who sits -[4745.36 --> 4745.68] on the -[4745.68 --> 4746.00] throne -[4746.00 --> 4746.56] and to -[4746.56 --> 4747.06] the lamb -[4747.06 --> 4747.74] be praise -[4747.74 --> 4748.20] and honor -[4748.20 --> 4748.86] and glory -[4748.86 --> 4749.52] and power -[4749.52 --> 4750.04] forever -[4750.04 --> 4751.36] and ever -[4751.36 --> 4752.38] when we -[4752.38 --> 4753.08] worship -[4753.08 --> 4753.76] God -[4753.76 --> 4755.12] centered -[4755.12 --> 4756.48] on Jesus -[4756.48 --> 4757.48] and centered -[4757.48 --> 4758.34] on the -[4758.34 --> 4758.80] gospel -[4758.80 --> 4759.48] message -[4759.48 --> 4759.98] when we -[4759.98 --> 4760.50] gather -[4760.50 --> 4761.18] together -[4761.18 --> 4761.94] week in -[4761.94 --> 4762.74] and week -[4762.74 --> 4763.02] out -[4763.02 --> 4763.72] we are -[4763.72 --> 4764.30] getting a -[4764.30 --> 4764.64] glimpse -[4764.64 --> 4765.48] behind the -[4765.48 --> 4765.88] screen -[4765.88 --> 4767.38] we are -[4767.38 --> 4767.92] seeing -[4767.92 --> 4768.52] what is -[4768.52 --> 4768.94] really -[4768.94 --> 4769.42] happening -[4769.42 --> 4769.90] up in -[4769.90 --> 4770.22] heaven -[4770.22 --> 4770.96] and we -[4770.96 --> 4771.16] are -[4771.16 --> 4771.70] invited -[4771.70 --> 4772.10] to take -[4772.10 --> 4772.42] part -[4772.42 --> 4772.66] of it -[4772.66 --> 4773.40] thousands -[4773.40 --> 4773.78] upon -[4773.78 --> 4774.30] thousands -[4774.30 --> 4774.62] ten -[4774.62 --> 4775.06] thousands -[4775.06 --> 4775.36] upon -[4775.36 --> 4775.64] ten -[4775.64 --> 4776.04] thousands -[4776.04 --> 4776.72] plus -[4776.72 --> 4777.40] you -[4777.40 --> 4777.90] and me -[4777.90 --> 4779.40] all the -[4779.40 --> 4779.76] angels -[4779.76 --> 4780.32] in heaven -[4780.32 --> 4781.56] and you -[4781.56 --> 4783.30] worshiping -[4783.30 --> 4784.00] our -[4784.00 --> 4784.86] God -[4784.86 --> 4786.52] this -[4786.52 --> 4787.32] begins to -[4787.32 --> 4787.82] mean so -[4787.82 --> 4788.32] many things -[4788.32 --> 4788.72] I trust -[4788.72 --> 4789.18] that you're -[4789.18 --> 4789.78] scratching the -[4789.78 --> 4790.28] surface of -[4790.28 --> 4790.66] that with -[4790.66 --> 4790.88] me -[4790.88 --> 4792.74] but I'll -[4792.74 --> 4793.02] end with -[4793.02 --> 4793.48] just this -[4793.48 --> 4796.16] when we -[4796.16 --> 4796.96] gather together -[4796.96 --> 4797.56] for worship -[4797.56 --> 4799.06] this is -[4799.06 --> 4799.24] no -[4799.24 --> 4799.72] ordinary -[4799.72 --> 4800.24] event -[4800.24 --> 4802.14] and yet -[4802.14 --> 4803.68] why do -[4803.68 --> 4804.12] so many -[4804.12 --> 4804.46] of us -[4804.46 --> 4804.78] treat it -[4804.78 --> 4805.16] like just -[4805.16 --> 4805.42] another -[4805.42 --> 4805.82] Sunday -[4805.82 --> 4807.68] just -[4807.68 --> 4807.90] another -[4807.90 --> 4808.16] day -[4808.16 --> 4809.74] just -[4809.74 --> 4809.90] an -[4809.90 --> 4810.36] ordinary -[4810.36 --> 4811.20] thing -[4811.20 --> 4813.08] instead -[4813.08 --> 4813.82] imagine -[4813.82 --> 4815.30] with me -[4815.30 --> 4815.64] right -[4815.64 --> 4817.16] what would -[4817.16 --> 4817.88] change -[4817.88 --> 4819.02] if we -[4819.02 --> 4819.42] gathered -[4819.42 --> 4819.72] with -[4819.72 --> 4820.70] expectation -[4820.70 --> 4821.90] right -[4821.90 --> 4822.14] if we -[4822.14 --> 4822.42] gathered -[4822.42 --> 4822.70] with the -[4822.70 --> 4823.12] sense of -[4823.12 --> 4823.62] urgency -[4823.62 --> 4824.02] that we -[4824.02 --> 4824.16] are -[4824.16 --> 4824.66] joining -[4824.66 --> 4825.08] in -[4825.08 --> 4825.46] the -[4825.46 --> 4825.68] very -[4825.68 --> 4826.44] glories -[4826.44 --> 4826.62] of -[4826.62 --> 4826.96] heaven -[4826.96 --> 4828.50] let's -[4828.50 --> 4828.82] gather -[4828.82 --> 4829.30] believing -[4829.30 --> 4829.50] that -[4829.50 --> 4829.66] what -[4829.66 --> 4829.80] we -[4829.80 --> 4829.92] are -[4829.92 --> 4830.20] doing -[4830.20 --> 4830.38] is -[4830.38 --> 4831.18] opening -[4831.18 --> 4831.66] up -[4831.66 --> 4832.02] heaven -[4832.02 --> 4832.34] to -[4832.34 --> 4832.64] us -[4832.64 --> 4833.08] right -[4833.08 --> 4833.38] here -[4833.38 --> 4833.54] and -[4833.54 --> 4833.68] right -[4833.68 --> 4833.86] and -[4833.86 --> 4834.02] then -[4834.02 --> 4834.36] let's -[4834.36 --> 4834.68] see -[4834.68 --> 4834.92] how -[4834.92 --> 4835.70] extraordinary -[4835.70 --> 4836.82] our -[4836.82 --> 4837.24] worship -[4837.24 --> 4838.10] can be -[4838.10 --> 4841.00] and then -[4841.00 --> 4841.26] let's -[4841.26 --> 4841.62] see how -[4841.62 --> 4842.14] easily -[4842.14 --> 4842.52] that -[4842.52 --> 4843.04] gathered -[4843.04 --> 4843.42] worship -[4843.42 --> 4844.02] connects -[4844.02 --> 4844.90] to the -[4844.90 --> 4845.22] scattered -[4845.22 --> 4847.62] and -[4847.62 --> 4847.84] now -[4847.84 --> 4848.26] okay -[4848.26 --> 4850.66] unpack -[4850.66 --> 4851.38] that -[4851.38 --> 4851.84] discussion -[4851.84 --> 4852.62] from the -[4852.62 --> 4852.88] beginning -[4852.88 --> 4853.30] on why -[4853.30 --> 4853.72] ascension -[4853.72 --> 4854.02] day -[4854.02 --> 4854.64] is -[4854.64 --> 4855.06] important -[4855.06 --> 4856.02] right -[4856.02 --> 4856.18] so -[4856.18 --> 4856.56] calvin -[4856.56 --> 4856.92] said -[4856.92 --> 4858.12] by his -[4858.12 --> 4858.58] ascension -[4858.58 --> 4859.00] jesus -[4859.00 --> 4859.42] opened -[4859.42 --> 4859.86] up -[4859.86 --> 4860.84] the -[4860.84 --> 4861.26] access -[4861.26 --> 4861.70] to the -[4861.70 --> 4862.00] heavenly -[4862.00 --> 4862.40] kingdom -[4862.40 --> 4862.68] which -[4862.68 --> 4862.96] adam -[4862.96 --> 4863.18] had -[4863.18 --> 4863.46] shut -[4863.46 --> 4864.22] in -[4864.22 --> 4864.72] revelation -[4864.72 --> 4866.24] 4 -[4866.24 --> 4866.62] 8 -[4866.62 --> 4867.08] we read -[4867.08 --> 4867.36] day -[4867.36 --> 4867.86] and night -[4867.86 --> 4868.32] they never -[4868.32 --> 4868.72] stopped -[4868.72 --> 4869.16] saying -[4869.16 --> 4869.66] holy -[4869.66 --> 4870.18] holy -[4870.18 --> 4870.60] holy -[4870.60 --> 4871.02] is the -[4871.02 --> 4871.22] lord -[4871.22 --> 4871.46] god -[4871.46 --> 4871.80] almighty -[4871.80 --> 4872.00] who -[4872.00 --> 4872.36] was -[4872.36 --> 4872.84] and -[4872.84 --> 4873.18] is -[4873.18 --> 4873.64] and -[4873.64 --> 4873.88] is -[4873.88 --> 4874.08] to -[4874.08 --> 4874.40] come -[4874.40 --> 4875.70] heaven -[4875.70 --> 4876.44] is -[4876.44 --> 4877.26] opened -[4877.26 --> 4878.44] and in -[4878.44 --> 4878.90] worship -[4878.90 --> 4879.48] you are -[4879.48 --> 4879.94] invited -[4879.94 --> 4880.52] not only -[4880.52 --> 4880.74] to -[4880.74 --> 4881.34] see -[4881.34 --> 4881.94] heaven -[4881.94 --> 4882.48] but you -[4882.48 --> 4882.62] are -[4882.62 --> 4882.90] granted -[4882.90 --> 4883.56] access -[4883.56 --> 4884.56] to it -[4884.56 --> 4884.70] to -[4884.70 --> 4885.42] participate -[4885.42 --> 4885.98] in -[4885.98 --> 4886.24] what -[4886.24 --> 4886.54] heaven -[4886.54 --> 4886.78] is -[4886.78 --> 4887.24] doing -[4887.24 --> 4889.26] worship -[4889.26 --> 4890.96] opens -[4890.96 --> 4891.20] up -[4891.20 --> 4891.58] heaven -[4891.58 --> 4893.28] to you -[4893.28 --> 4894.66] calvin -[4894.66 --> 4894.94] said -[4894.94 --> 4895.52] having -[4895.52 --> 4895.82] entered -[4895.82 --> 4896.24] the temple -[4896.24 --> 4896.64] not made -[4896.64 --> 4897.12] with hands -[4897.12 --> 4897.84] he constantly -[4897.84 --> 4898.32] appears -[4898.32 --> 4898.64] as our -[4898.64 --> 4899.02] advocate -[4899.02 --> 4899.72] and intercessor -[4899.72 --> 4900.10] in the -[4900.10 --> 4900.40] presence -[4900.40 --> 4900.72] of the -[4900.72 --> 4901.10] father -[4901.10 --> 4902.40] i absolutely -[4902.40 --> 4903.02] love -[4903.02 --> 4903.96] this image -[4903.96 --> 4904.64] but if -[4904.64 --> 4904.98] your bibles -[4904.98 --> 4905.34] are open -[4905.34 --> 4905.78] revelation -[4905.78 --> 4906.36] five -[4906.36 --> 4906.86] five -[4906.86 --> 4907.88] right -[4907.88 --> 4909.14] the angel -[4909.14 --> 4909.64] says -[4909.64 --> 4911.12] do not -[4911.12 --> 4911.60] weep -[4911.60 --> 4912.92] see -[4912.92 --> 4914.22] the lion -[4914.22 --> 4914.72] of the -[4914.72 --> 4915.16] tribe -[4915.16 --> 4915.72] of judah -[4915.72 --> 4916.26] the root -[4916.26 --> 4917.66] of david -[4917.66 --> 4917.96] has -[4917.96 --> 4919.40] triumphed -[4919.40 --> 4919.94] he is -[4919.94 --> 4920.38] able to -[4920.38 --> 4920.88] open the -[4920.88 --> 4921.20] scroll -[4921.20 --> 4921.64] and its -[4921.64 --> 4922.32] seven seals -[4922.32 --> 4923.16] and then -[4923.16 --> 4924.12] john says -[4924.12 --> 4925.20] then i saw -[4925.20 --> 4926.12] a lamb -[4926.12 --> 4927.42] looking -[4927.42 --> 4928.70] as he had -[4928.70 --> 4929.34] been slain -[4929.34 --> 4930.84] standing at -[4930.84 --> 4931.36] the center -[4931.36 --> 4932.56] of the throne -[4932.56 --> 4934.24] jesus -[4934.24 --> 4935.64] the lion -[4935.64 --> 4936.36] of judah -[4936.36 --> 4937.64] and the -[4937.64 --> 4937.94] lamb -[4937.94 --> 4938.52] who was -[4938.52 --> 4939.60] slain -[4939.60 --> 4940.94] come together -[4940.94 --> 4942.14] stand at -[4942.14 --> 4942.54] the center -[4942.54 --> 4942.86] of the -[4942.86 --> 4943.14] throne -[4943.14 --> 4944.74] he will -[4944.74 --> 4945.58] love you -[4945.58 --> 4947.20] like a -[4947.20 --> 4947.46] lamb -[4947.46 --> 4949.22] and he -[4949.22 --> 4949.82] will defend -[4949.82 --> 4950.28] you -[4950.28 --> 4951.14] like a -[4951.14 --> 4951.42] lion -[4951.42 --> 4953.92] he will -[4953.92 --> 4954.44] approach -[4954.44 --> 4954.84] you -[4954.84 --> 4955.64] like a -[4955.64 --> 4955.90] lamb -[4955.90 --> 4956.96] and he -[4956.96 --> 4957.16] will -[4957.16 --> 4957.84] chase -[4957.84 --> 4958.34] after -[4958.34 --> 4958.74] you -[4958.74 --> 4959.68] like a -[4959.68 --> 4959.94] lion -[4959.94 --> 4962.34] he will -[4962.34 --> 4962.72] draw -[4962.72 --> 4963.38] into -[4963.38 --> 4964.34] you -[4964.34 --> 4964.84] and draw -[4964.84 --> 4965.12] you -[4965.12 --> 4965.88] into him -[4965.88 --> 4966.68] like a -[4966.68 --> 4966.92] lamb -[4966.92 --> 4969.20] and he -[4969.20 --> 4969.90] will ensure -[4969.90 --> 4970.64] that you -[4970.64 --> 4971.78] are victorious -[4971.78 --> 4973.62] like a -[4973.62 --> 4973.94] lion -[4973.94 --> 4977.18] then calvin -[4977.18 --> 4977.54] says -[4977.54 --> 4979.12] spoiling his -[4979.12 --> 4979.86] foes he gave -[4979.86 --> 4980.46] gifts to his -[4980.46 --> 4980.98] people and -[4980.98 --> 4981.82] daily loads -[4981.82 --> 4982.32] them with -[4982.32 --> 4982.94] spiritual -[4982.94 --> 4983.86] riches -[4983.86 --> 4984.28] revelation -[4984.28 --> 4985.18] 510 -[4985.18 --> 4986.38] you have -[4986.38 --> 4987.00] made them -[4987.00 --> 4987.66] to be a -[4987.66 --> 4988.36] kingdom and -[4988.36 --> 4989.12] priests to -[4989.12 --> 4989.68] serve -[4989.68 --> 4990.58] our God -[4990.58 --> 4991.28] and they -[4991.28 --> 4991.90] will reign -[4991.90 --> 4992.46] on earth -[4992.46 --> 4994.12] because of -[4994.12 --> 4994.70] the ascension -[4994.70 --> 4995.56] we have a -[4995.56 --> 4996.02] king who -[4996.02 --> 4996.44] is seated -[4996.44 --> 4996.78] on the -[4996.78 --> 4997.04] throne -[4997.04 --> 4997.48] and then -[4997.48 --> 4998.02] has given -[4998.02 --> 4998.70] us gifts -[4998.70 --> 4999.36] has given -[4999.36 --> 4999.64] us the -[4999.64 --> 5000.14] holy spirit -[5000.14 --> 5000.38] and given -[5000.38 --> 5001.22] us purposes -[5001.22 --> 5002.18] as priests -[5002.18 --> 5003.22] to reign -[5003.22 --> 5004.06] with him -[5004.06 --> 5005.52] and that -[5005.52 --> 5006.42] is worth -[5006.42 --> 5007.60] singing about -[5007.60 --> 5008.90] worship -[5008.90 --> 5009.90] reminds us -[5009.90 --> 5010.20] of this -[5010.20 --> 5010.62] gathered -[5010.62 --> 5011.00] worship -[5011.00 --> 5011.78] invites you -[5011.78 --> 5012.34] into the -[5012.34 --> 5012.98] activity of -[5012.98 --> 5013.20] heaven -[5013.20 --> 5013.72] that is -[5013.72 --> 5014.18] happening -[5014.18 --> 5015.18] right now -[5015.18 --> 5015.94] just behind -[5015.94 --> 5016.48] the veil -[5016.48 --> 5017.66] see what -[5017.66 --> 5018.42] is always -[5018.42 --> 5018.94] happening -[5018.94 --> 5020.76] see behind -[5020.76 --> 5021.22] the veil -[5021.22 --> 5021.92] see the -[5021.92 --> 5022.76] truth of -[5022.76 --> 5023.18] what we -[5023.18 --> 5023.76] do here -[5023.76 --> 5024.24] together -[5024.24 --> 5026.94] and the -[5026.94 --> 5027.42] four living -[5027.42 --> 5028.16] creatures said -[5028.16 --> 5028.56] amen -[5028.56 --> 5030.30] and the -[5030.30 --> 5030.96] elders fell -[5030.96 --> 5031.36] down -[5031.36 --> 5032.98] and worshipped -[5032.98 --> 5034.98] maybe you want -[5034.98 --> 5035.36] to fall -[5035.36 --> 5036.58] maybe you want -[5036.58 --> 5036.96] to stand -[5036.96 --> 5037.82] I'm going to -[5037.82 --> 5038.34] invite you to -[5038.34 --> 5038.72] stand -[5038.72 --> 5039.80] and as you're -[5039.80 --> 5040.20] standing I'm -[5040.20 --> 5040.50] going to invite -[5040.50 --> 5041.22] the praise -[5041.22 --> 5041.66] team the -[5041.66 --> 5042.08] worship team -[5042.08 --> 5042.62] to come back -[5042.62 --> 5043.00] on up -[5043.00 --> 5044.10] and we are -[5044.10 --> 5044.38] going to -[5044.38 --> 5044.64] sing -[5044.64 --> 5046.54] we are -[5046.54 --> 5046.78] going to -[5046.78 --> 5047.22] sing a -[5047.22 --> 5047.72] song and -[5047.72 --> 5048.48] as we -[5048.48 --> 5049.04] sing -[5049.04 --> 5050.92] know -[5050.92 --> 5052.54] and remember -[5052.54 --> 5054.12] exactly -[5054.12 --> 5055.38] what is -[5055.38 --> 5055.80] happening -[5055.80 --> 5057.72] let me pray -[5057.72 --> 5058.80] and then team -[5058.80 --> 5059.54] take us right -[5059.54 --> 5060.08] into the song -[5060.08 --> 5066.78] Lord our -[5066.78 --> 5067.46] God -[5067.46 --> 5070.46] Holy Father -[5070.46 --> 5071.86] Holy Son -[5071.86 --> 5073.28] Holy Spirit -[5073.28 --> 5075.08] open the -[5075.08 --> 5075.84] eyes of our -[5075.84 --> 5076.36] heart -[5076.36 --> 5077.72] that we -[5077.72 --> 5078.60] might see -[5078.60 --> 5079.48] clearly -[5079.48 --> 5082.00] your face -[5082.00 --> 5083.38] right here -[5083.38 --> 5084.36] right now -[5084.36 --> 5085.90] open the -[5085.90 --> 5086.34] eyes of our -[5086.34 --> 5086.82] heart that we -[5086.82 --> 5087.64] might worship -[5087.64 --> 5089.38] truly as we -[5089.38 --> 5090.64] see heaven -[5090.64 --> 5091.58] opened before -[5091.58 --> 5092.20] us as we are -[5092.20 --> 5093.02] drawn up -[5093.02 --> 5093.76] into the -[5093.76 --> 5094.64] praises of -[5094.64 --> 5095.58] all creation -[5095.58 --> 5096.76] angelic -[5096.76 --> 5098.22] and earthly -[5098.22 --> 5101.98] give us -[5101.98 --> 5102.62] eyes to -[5102.62 --> 5103.72] see past -[5103.72 --> 5104.28] the veil -[5104.28 --> 5106.26] that today -[5106.26 --> 5107.22] we might -[5107.22 --> 5107.74] sing your -[5107.74 --> 5108.44] praises -[5108.44 --> 5111.84] and that -[5111.84 --> 5112.50] with the -[5112.50 --> 5113.28] ten thousands -[5113.28 --> 5114.08] upon ten -[5114.08 --> 5114.58] thousands -[5114.58 --> 5117.24] we might -[5117.24 --> 5117.90] push back -[5117.90 --> 5118.60] the darkness -[5118.60 --> 5121.26] we proclaim -[5121.26 --> 5122.74] your praises -[5122.74 --> 5123.44] Lord Jesus -[5123.44 --> 5124.20] for you -[5124.20 --> 5126.16] are worthy -[5126.16 --> 5127.92] amen -[5127.92 --> 5145.62] by the sea -[5145.62 --> 5147.46] of wisdom -[5147.46 --> 5149.70] saints in -[5149.70 --> 5150.46] holy -[5150.46 --> 5151.92] stand -[5151.92 --> 5153.88] weary -[5153.88 --> 5155.40] as in -[5155.40 --> 5156.88] number -[5156.88 --> 5158.24] drawn -[5158.24 --> 5158.90] from -[5158.90 --> 5159.88] every -[5159.88 --> 5161.40] land -[5161.40 --> 5162.92] gold -[5162.92 --> 5164.08] in light -[5164.08 --> 5164.66] and -[5164.66 --> 5165.88] heaven -[5165.88 --> 5166.88] washed -[5167.46 --> 5168.02] in -[5168.02 --> 5168.70] Jesus -[5168.70 --> 5170.88] God -[5170.88 --> 5172.04] in -[5172.04 --> 5172.52] the -[5172.52 --> 5173.18] rain -[5173.18 --> 5173.70] in -[5173.70 --> 5174.88] heaven -[5174.88 --> 5176.50] with -[5176.50 --> 5177.10] the -[5177.10 --> 5178.00] lap -[5178.00 --> 5178.32] of -[5178.32 --> 5179.88] life -[5179.88 --> 5181.84] heart -[5181.84 --> 5181.88] of -[5181.88 --> 5183.84] tribulation -[5183.84 --> 5185.84] and -[5185.84 --> 5185.92] men -[5185.92 --> 5187.04] sing -[5187.04 --> 5187.62] and -[5187.62 --> 5187.84] men -[5187.84 --> 5189.84] they -[5189.84 --> 5191.54] have been -[5191.54 --> 5192.84] translated -[5192.84 --> 5193.84] and -[5193.84 --> 5194.84] have the -[5194.84 --> 5195.84] voice -[5195.84 --> 5196.80] of -[5196.80 --> 5197.84] men -[5197.84 --> 5198.84] in -[5198.84 --> 5200.72] their hands -[5200.72 --> 5201.34] they're -[5201.34 --> 5202.84] holding -[5202.84 --> 5203.84] homes -[5203.84 --> 5204.84] of -[5204.84 --> 5205.84] victory -[5205.84 --> 5207.80] heart -[5207.80 --> 5208.80] heart -[5208.80 --> 5209.22] the -[5209.22 --> 5209.80] new -[5209.80 --> 5210.32] and -[5210.32 --> 5211.80] chorus -[5211.80 --> 5212.80] shall -[5212.80 --> 5213.64] stand -[5213.64 --> 5213.80] on -[5213.80 --> 5215.80] for me -[5215.80 --> 5217.80] unto -[5217.80 --> 5218.80] God -[5218.80 --> 5219.80] almighty -[5219.80 --> 5221.80] sitting -[5221.80 --> 5223.80] on -[5223.80 --> 5224.80] the -[5224.80 --> 5225.80] throne -[5225.80 --> 5227.76] throne -[5227.76 --> 5227.80] and -[5227.80 --> 5228.76] love -[5228.76 --> 5229.76] and -[5229.76 --> 5231.76] victoria -[5231.76 --> 5233.50] be the -[5233.50 --> 5233.76] praise -[5234.44 --> 5234.76] of -[5234.76 --> 5235.76] all -[5235.76 --> 5237.76] God -[5237.76 --> 5238.84] has won -[5238.84 --> 5240.76] salvation -[5240.76 --> 5241.76] he -[5241.76 --> 5242.76] did -[5242.76 --> 5243.76] contrast -[5243.76 --> 5245.76] in -[5245.76 --> 5246.76] who -[5246.76 --> 5247.76] shall -[5247.76 --> 5248.76] guard -[5248.76 --> 5249.22] and -[5249.22 --> 5249.76] stone -[5249.76 --> 5250.76] be -[5250.76 --> 5252.76] holy -[5252.76 --> 5253.76] kingdom -[5253.76 --> 5257.72] peace -[5257.72 --> 5258.72] all -[5258.72 --> 5263.72] right -[5263.72 --> 5264.72] as you exit -[5264.72 --> 5265.72] please -[5265.72 --> 5266.86] remain calm -[5266.86 --> 5268.46] others will open the doors -[5268.46 --> 5273.14] we are gathering at our gathering point north of the place diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 30, 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 30, 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 933a2345a0f8f875f5a41dfe28d3efcb3b12409b..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 30, 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,154 +0,0 @@ -• Emotional expression of love -• Self-worth and being good enough -• Trust and reliance on someone's care and kindness -• Hope and faith in the future, despite uncertainty -• Confidence in God's goodness and redemption -• Celebration of eternal life and hope in Christ -• Singing of "Hallelujah" during worship service -• Regathering of worship service, new start time at 9am -• Announcements: - + 20-20 event for youth group tonight at 7pm - + Need volunteers to lead children's worship time ministry -• Mission committee news: local food drive competition within the church -• Discussion with Ken Stam about motivating his district -• Interruption by Eric Van Heusen, also in District 1 -• Comparison of Ken's overconfidence to the Edmonton Oilers and Eric's team being more like the Winnipeg Jets -• Upcoming food drive competition between Elder districts -• Details on how to participate and donate items -• Call to worship and prayer -• Scripture reading from Psalm 30 -• Longing for Jesus' return and preparing oneself spiritually -• Confession of falling short in spiritual practices, such as reading the Bible regularly -• Resolving to follow God's guidance despite daily struggles with sin and negativity -• Hope in Jesus' sacrifice and love that covers past, present, and future debts -• Prayer for renewal and transformation through faith in Jesus Christ -• Prayer and devotion to God -• Children's worship time, including memory work -• Bible story: Apostle Peter preaching in Jerusalem -• Introduction of guests and a video segment -• Discussion of trusting in God during times of change or uncertainty -• The hosts introduce themselves and the segment "Kids Corner" -• Ryan and Wesley are introduced as guests -• Host asks Ryan about his day, school, parents, and favorite activities (shows, video games, basketball) -• Ryan shares a joke with the host -• Host shares a joke with Ryan and Wesley -• Ryan and Wesley challenge the host to an athletic competition involving a scooter race -• The host and Ryan engage in a friendly competition on camera, racing down a driveway -• The segment ends with a basketball competition between Ryan and the host -• The narrator is going to tell a story about Tabitha/Dorcas -• The story involves Tabitha's illness and death, and Peter's prayer that brings her back to life -• Characters in the story include Peter, the widow, and Tabitha/Dorcas -• Dorcas/Tabitha was known for helping the poor and doing good things -• The group is discussing how they know this story and who has heard it before -• Tabitha's death and resurrection -• Peter showing respect to Tabitha by mourning with her friends -• The widows' excitement about Tabitha making clothes and wanting to show it to Peter -• Peter praying over Tabitha, leading to her resurrection -• The reaction of the people when they saw Tabitha come out of the room alive -• The miraculous event causing people to believe in God and want to follow Jesus -• The spread of the good news of Jesus through word of mouth back then -• Electricity and communication methods in the past -• Sharing news through walking and letters -• The spread of Jesus Christ's good news from town to town -• A challenge on a trampoline with bomb drops -• Eric beating kids in competitions, expected by others -• Welcoming a new member into a church community -• Introduction to the fellowship and mission of Langley Emmanuel Church -• Three questions asked to affirm faith and commitment: - - Belief in Jesus as Savior and Lord - - Understanding of the Bible as God's word revealing His plan for redemption through Jesus Christ - - Promise to strengthen relationship with Jesus by participating in church life and mission -• Clem answers affirming their faith, asking for help from God and the church -• Introduction to Pearl Dunhan, a deacon at the Langley Manus COC -• Offerings for church budget and ministries -• Update on C10 (Commission to Every Nation) and Ariel/Jody Gonzalez's ministry in Mexico -• Read from email from Jody Gonzalez with updates on her ministry in Mexico -• Handwritten note from Jody's sister Brenda added to the update -• Discussion of COVID-19 vaccination efforts in Mexico -• Verse reading from Hebrews 13:15 about offering sacrifices to God -• Announcement of next week's offering for Wellspring UBCO in support of their chaplaincy ministry -• Prayer for congregational members and their families -• Thanks and praise for blessings and opportunities -• Prayers for the Timmer family, John's health, Amy Longer's mom, Matt Woods and Nicole Rook's engagement -• Support for first responders and medical staff during pandemic -• Blessings for senior members at Emmanuel and their caregivers -• Prayers for schools, students, teachers, and graduates -• Relief from anxiety, loneliness, sickness, depression, and lasting effects of COVID-19 -• Discussion and prayer for the process of selecting new church leaders -• Reference to the biblical example of Matthias being chosen as a leader by casting lots -• Gratitude expressed for those willing to serve in various roles, whether or not they are ultimately selected -• Casting of lots to select new office bearers, including elders and deacons -• Acknowledgement of other events happening during the service, such as communion and celebrating new membership and engagement announcements -• Lighthearted comments about golfing with church leaders -• The speaker remembers a golf game and recalls a moment where Aaron's ball hit a rock, causing him to react with fear -• The speaker shows a video of the incident and notes Aaron's reaction -• Pastor Chris is present and gives permission for the video to be shown -• The speaker uses this anecdote to introduce a sermon series on patience and perseverance from James 5:7-12 -• The main passage is read from James 5:7-12, which exhorts believers to have patience in the face of suffering, using the examples of prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord and Job's perseverance -• The sermon also addresses the topic of oaths and encourages believers to speak simply with a "yes" or "no" -• The text is connected to previous sermons in the series, which condemned wealthy non-Christians for persecuting believers -• James' response to persecution is one of patience, not revolution or outrage -• The inner quality of patience produces the outer manifestation of perseverance -• Examples of patience and perseverance are given through the farmer and the prophet -• Farmers need to be patient with things outside their control, such as rain -• James uses the farmer as an example for everyone to be patient in times they cannot control -• The calling is to love and serve the Lord patiently in good and rough times. -• Responding to situations outside of one's control -• Being patient during challenging times -• Grumbling and complaining against others -• The importance of bearing afflictions without grumbling -• Recognizing when we are grumbling against others -• The need for discussion and disagreement, but not grumbling -• Discussion of God's goodness in lives despite struggles -• Importance of celebrating God's work rather than grumbling about differences with others -• Being patient and speaking truth about God's goodness -• The pandemic as a time to persevere and speak to the glory of God -• The end of the pandemic being near and using this opportunity to be patient and celebrate Jesus' coming again -• Jesus' second coming and its significance in removing sin, disease, and suffering -• Christ's return and reign on earth -• End of sorrow, pain, disease, poverty, injustice, death, and other sufferings -• Beginning of comfort, joy, health, freedom, peace, abundance, and justice -• Uniting with believers in a perfect, sin-free body -• The importance of patience and perseverance during difficult times -• Jeremiah's suffering in the Bible -• Job's faithfulness despite losing everything -• Comparison of Jeremiah, Job, and Jesus Christ -• Jesus' life, death, and resurrection as atonement for sin -• The importance of perseverance through trials and tribulations -• God's promise of restoration and redemption through Jesus Christ -• Sorrow and grief can be crippling, but persevering is possible -• Prophets suffered and responded to suffering faithfully -• Our sinful nature can lead us to assume we are the first to experience a situation -• The prophets faced difficult situations, but persevered with God's help -• Personal examples of perseverance, including the speaker's grandmother and Pastor Bill -• The pastor's perseverance through cancer and his example of praising God despite suffering -• Dave Alexander's ALS diagnosis and his desire to persevere like the pastor and be an example of God's glory -• The importance of perseverance in the face of trials and tribulations, citing examples from scripture including Job and Jeremiah -• The promise that those who remain steadfast are blessed, as stated in James' text -• The call to patience and perseverance in the midst of difficulties and uncertainty -• Trusting in God's eternal promises and knowing the end of one's story, with Christ's victory, death, and resurrection as the ultimate outcome. -• The kingdom of God coming and living with patience and perseverance in times of trial -• Practicing patience and perseverance as we wait for the glory of God -• The story of Christ's life, death, and resurrection -• Asking for God's spirit to help us with struggles and pain in our lives -• Seeking God first and knowing He is coming -• Singing about God's love, salvation, and power -• The concept of the Lord's table and the significance of Jesus' sacrifice -• A liturgical sequence to be followed, including responsive readings and taking communion -• Gratitude for God's creation, covenant with humanity, and salvation through Jesus Christ -• Understanding the sacrament as a reminder of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection, and a proclamation of faith -• Invitation to come to the table of the Lord, regardless of location or circumstances -• Expressions of gratitude, praise, and worship to God, including songs and prayers -• The goodness and presence of God -• Christ as the rock of hope in life and death -• Eternity and everlasting life in heaven -• Singing praises to God, with a focus on "Hallelujah" -• Receiving God's blessing and going forth with His power and love -• Praying for a fresh wind from God, and seeking His presence -• Calling for a fresh wind of the Spirit -• Prophesying and singing to receive God's presence -• Needing a deeper understanding of God's power and glory -• Inviting people to open their mouths and hands to receive God's Spirit -• Emphasizing God's willingness to pour out His Spirit on those who desire it -• Calling the church to desperation for God's presence and Spirit -• Acknowledging God's ability and power to accomplish anything \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 30, 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 30, 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index fcb9883d5964b09c95a823759185b1ba9f5ee38d..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 30, 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2686 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.00] I'll cry like this -[2.00 --> 10.00] Oh, I've never known love like this, no, no -[10.00 --> 13.00] No, no, no, no, no, no -[13.00 --> 18.00] Don't have to stir it up -[18.00 --> 21.34] I'm already good enough -[21.34 --> 24.68] No, I can't under up -[24.68 --> 29.06] It's running, it's running, it's running, it's running for me -[29.06 --> 31.34] Don't have to stir it up -[31.34 --> 35.26] I'm already good enough -[35.26 --> 38.02] No, I can't under up -[38.02 --> 42.36] It's running, it's running, it's running, it's running for me -[42.36 --> 44.72] Don't have to stir it up -[44.72 --> 48.00] I'm already good enough -[48.00 --> 51.34] No, I can't under up -[51.60 --> 55.74] It's running, it's running, it's running, it's running for me -[55.74 --> 58.00] Don't have to stir it up -[58.00 --> 61.38] I'm already good enough -[61.38 --> 64.86] No one can hurt your love -[64.86 --> 67.58] It's running, it's running, it's running -[67.58 --> 68.46] It's running -[68.46 --> 70.04] Love like this -[70.04 --> 71.70] Love like this -[71.70 --> 73.46] Love like this -[73.46 --> 75.06] Love like this -[75.06 --> 78.04] I've never known about what I like -[78.04 --> 81.34] I've never known about what I like -[81.34 --> 83.40] Love like this -[83.40 --> 85.06] Love like this -[85.06 --> 86.12] Love like this -[86.12 --> 88.12] Oh -[105.26 --> 107.26] raised -[116.12 --> 146.10] I'll never know a love quite like this -[146.12 --> 176.10] I'll never know a love quite like this -[176.12 --> 206.10] I'll never know a love quite like this -[206.10 --> 211.74] You know what I need before I even have to think -[211.74 --> 241.74] -[241.74 --> 244.40] Or the shadow would cast -[244.40 --> 248.06] A heart that's planning in forgiveness -[248.06 --> 251.74] Doesn't dwell in the past -[251.74 --> 255.88] So why should I be? -[256.98 --> 259.78] Cause you take good care of me -[259.78 --> 263.22] You take good care of me -[263.22 --> 270.02] And you know what I need before I even ask a thing -[270.02 --> 273.54] And you hold me in your hand -[273.54 --> 277.24] With the kindness that never is -[277.24 --> 280.32] I'm carried in your love -[280.32 --> 284.10] No matter what the future brings -[284.10 --> 287.24] Yeah, you take good care of me -[287.24 --> 303.58] I know there must be more -[303.58 --> 307.08] But I can't get past your kindness -[307.08 --> 310.34] I know there's got to be more -[310.34 --> 313.94] But I can't get past your goodness -[313.94 --> 317.18] I know there must be more -[317.18 --> 320.76] But I can't get past your kindness -[320.76 --> 321.76] I know there must be more -[321.76 --> 322.76] I know there must be more -[322.76 --> 323.76] I know there must be more -[323.76 --> 327.76] But I can't get past your goodness -[327.76 --> 334.76] You take good care of me -[334.76 --> 336.76] You take good care of me -[336.76 --> 338.42] You take good care of me -[338.42 --> 344.76] You know what I need before I even have to think -[344.76 --> 345.76] You hold me in your hand -[345.76 --> 346.76] You hold me in your hand -[346.76 --> 348.76] You hold me in your hand -[348.76 --> 351.76] You take kindness that never ends -[352.44 --> 354.76] I'm carried in your love -[355.74 --> 358.76] No matter what the future brings -[359.52 --> 362.76] Oh, you take good care of me -[362.76 --> 383.76] What is our hope in life and death? -[383.76 --> 388.76] Christ alone, Christ alone -[388.76 --> 393.76] What is our only confidence -[393.76 --> 397.76] That our souls to Him belong -[397.76 --> 402.76] Who holds our days within His hand -[402.76 --> 407.76] What comes apart from His command -[407.76 --> 412.76] And what will keep us to the end -[412.76 --> 419.76] The love of Christ in which we stand? -[419.76 --> 424.76] Oh, sing hallelujah -[424.76 --> 429.76] Our hope springs eternal -[429.76 --> 433.76] Oh, sing hallelujah -[433.76 --> 437.76] Now and ever we confess -[437.76 --> 444.76] Christ our hope in life and death -[448.76 --> 452.76] What truth can calm the troubled soul -[452.76 --> 457.76] God is good, God is good -[457.76 --> 462.76] Where is His grace and goodness known? -[462.76 --> 467.76] In our great Redeemer's blood -[467.76 --> 472.76] Who holds our faith when fears arise? -[472.76 --> 476.76] Who stands above the stormy tribe? -[477.76 --> 481.76] Who sends the waves that bring us nigh -[481.76 --> 486.76] Unto the shore of the rock of Christ? -[486.76 --> 491.76] Oh, sing hallelujah -[491.76 --> 495.76] Our hope springs eternal -[496.76 --> 500.76] Oh, sing hallelujah -[500.76 --> 502.76] Now and ever we confess -[502.76 --> 507.76] Christ our hope in life and death -[507.76 --> 509.76] We sing -[509.76 --> 512.76] Christ he lives, Christ he lives -[512.76 --> 514.76] And what reward will heaven bring? -[514.76 --> 516.76] Everlasting life with Him -[516.76 --> 518.76] There we will rise -[518.76 --> 519.76] And what reward will heaven bring? -[519.76 --> 520.76] Everlasting life with Him -[520.76 --> 525.76] There we will rise to meet the Lord -[525.76 --> 529.76] And sin and death will be destroyed -[529.76 --> 534.76] And we will feast in endless joy -[534.76 --> 537.76] When Christ is ours forevermore -[537.76 --> 539.76] Forevermore -[539.76 --> 541.76] Forevermore -[541.76 --> 546.76] Oh, sing hallelujah -[546.76 --> 551.76] Our hope springs eternal -[551.76 --> 556.76] Oh, sing hallelujah -[556.76 --> 558.76] Now and ever we confess -[558.76 --> 559.76] Oh, sing hallelujah -[559.76 --> 561.76] Now and ever we confess -[561.76 --> 564.76] Christ our hope in life and death -[564.76 --> 566.76] Oh, sing hallelujah -[566.76 --> 567.76] Now and ever we confess -[567.76 --> 569.76] Oh, sing hallelujah -[569.76 --> 570.76] Now and ever we confess -[570.76 --> 573.76] Now and ever we confess -[573.76 --> 577.76] Christ our hope in life and death -[577.76 --> 579.76] Oh, sing hallelujah -[579.76 --> 583.76] Oh, sing hallelujah -[583.76 --> 587.76] Our hope springs eternal -[587.76 --> 592.76] Oh, sing hallelujah -[592.76 --> 595.76] Now and ever we confess -[595.76 --> 600.76] Christ our hope in life and death -[600.76 --> 601.76] Now and ever we confess -[601.76 --> 605.76] Christ our hope in life and death -[605.76 --> 610.76] Christ our hope in life and death -[625.76 --> 637.76] You saw me first -[641.76 --> 643.76] Welcome to worship. -[643.76 --> 646.76] We want to welcome everybody who is here with us -[646.76 --> 649.76] for our first regathered worship service -[649.76 --> 652.76] and we want to welcome everybody who is joining us online -[652.76 --> 653.76] And whether you're watching it now -[653.76 --> 655.76] or if you came at 10 o'clock -[655.76 --> 657.76] and you're wondering why is the service almost over -[657.76 --> 660.76] It's because we changed the start time to 9 o'clock -[660.76 --> 662.76] or if you're watching it later today or later in the week -[662.76 --> 665.76] we are glad that you are worshiping with us this morning -[665.76 --> 667.76] Before we begin in earnest -[667.76 --> 670.76] there are a couple announcements that I'm going to make -[670.76 --> 674.76] First, tonight for the youth group there is 20-20 -[674.76 --> 677.76] and so you or your parents should have received an email about that -[677.76 --> 680.76] and that begins here at 7 o'clock -[680.76 --> 682.76] If you have any questions you can grab Pastor Kevin -[682.76 --> 685.76] or email Pastor Kevin and figure that out -[685.76 --> 687.76] That is tonight -[687.76 --> 692.76] Also, as we are beginning this process of regathering our worship together -[692.76 --> 697.76] we also are very hopeful that we will be able to transition back -[697.76 --> 702.76] or restart the children's worship time ministry of our gathered worship -[702.76 --> 705.76] But in order to do that we need volunteers -[705.76 --> 714.76] And so we are looking for people to volunteer to lead preschools to grade 4 -[714.76 --> 715.76] Right? -[715.76 --> 717.76] As we have two groups for children's worship time -[717.76 --> 719.76] And so if that's something you've done in the past -[719.76 --> 721.76] and you're looking for something to do -[721.76 --> 724.76] for the next couple weeks and months of our time together -[724.76 --> 728.76] then please reach out to Nikki and touch base with her -[728.76 --> 731.76] If that's something you haven't done in the past -[731.76 --> 733.76] but you're still looking for something to do -[733.76 --> 734.76] and you want to bless our community -[734.76 --> 738.76] please think seriously about being able to do that here -[738.76 --> 741.76] and provide that for parents who are coming -[741.76 --> 744.76] and young families who are coming to worship -[744.76 --> 749.76] I'm speaking only on behalf of my lovely wife -[749.76 --> 753.76] who has to single parent while I get to be here every week at Sunday -[753.76 --> 755.76] and so when it comes time for her to come with the kids -[755.76 --> 757.76] it would be a real blessing -[757.76 --> 760.76] if we had an opportunity to bless those kids in worship -[760.76 --> 762.76] so that she could also focus -[762.76 --> 766.76] and people like that situation can focus in our worship together -[766.76 --> 769.76] and so please, please, please think seriously -[769.76 --> 775.76] about whether or not you feel God calling you to serve our community in that way -[775.76 --> 778.76] Oh, one second, hold on -[778.76 --> 782.76] I'm getting something in my earbud here -[792.76 --> 797.76] Good morning and welcome to this morning's edition of the 10am Emanuel Missions Committee News -[797.76 --> 799.76] I'm your host, Rebecca Pullman -[799.76 --> 803.76] Today's breaking news includes the story of a local food drive -[803.76 --> 807.76] the Missions Committee is encouraging people from Langley Emanuel CRC -[807.76 --> 809.76] to support their local food bank -[809.76 --> 812.76] by purchasing much needed food and household items -[812.76 --> 815.76] with more on this story, our reporter in the field, Susan Stam -[815.76 --> 817.76] what more can you tell us, Susan? -[817.76 --> 818.76] Thanks, Rebecca -[818.76 --> 821.76] As you've heard, the Langley Food Bank serves the community -[821.76 --> 824.76] providing food and household items to families in need -[824.76 --> 828.76] Emanuel CRC is prepared to help them by holding a food drive -[828.76 --> 830.76] however, this isn't just any food drive -[830.76 --> 832.76] it's a food competition -[832.76 --> 833.76] within the church -[833.76 --> 836.76] members are divided into elder districts -[836.76 --> 838.76] these districts will compete against each other -[838.76 --> 842.76] to see which group can provide the most support for the Langley Food Bank -[842.76 --> 844.76] and I hear there's a prize on the line -[844.76 --> 845.76] it's a feisty competition -[845.76 --> 847.76] and I'm actually here on the ground -[847.76 --> 849.76] with the presumed front-runner team -[849.76 --> 851.76] led by none other than Ken Stam -[851.76 --> 855.76] Ken, can you tell me how you're planning on motivating your district? -[855.76 --> 859.76] Well, you know, I feel that we don't need a whole lot of motivation -[859.76 --> 862.76] I feel like, you know, for the last year and a little bit -[862.76 --> 864.76] we've sort of been sitting around, you know, just preparing -[864.76 --> 865.76] preparing for this moment -[865.76 --> 867.76] and I feel like, you know, we're pretty amped up -[867.76 --> 870.76] ready to just jump out and, you know, really give -[870.76 --> 872.76] Hold on here, so let's go on -[872.76 --> 873.76] No, no, no, so -[873.76 --> 874.76] What's going on here? -[874.76 --> 875.76] What's going on? -[875.76 --> 877.76] Wait a minute, it looks like we might have another challenger here -[877.76 --> 878.76] This is Eric Van Heusen -[878.76 --> 880.76] What district are you? -[880.76 --> 881.76] Well, we're in district one -[881.76 --> 884.76] and what's Ken trying to tell you guys right now? -[884.76 --> 886.76] What are you trying to tell us, Ken? -[886.76 --> 889.76] I'm trying to tell you that we got this thing in the bag -[889.76 --> 892.76] and we're going to come out on top here, okay? -[892.76 --> 894.76] Sorry, folks, folks, sorry -[894.76 --> 895.76] I just got to say a couple things -[895.76 --> 898.76] like Ken here suffers from a condition called overconfidence -[898.76 --> 900.76] and he's kind of like the Edmonton Oilers -[900.76 --> 903.76] that just kind of lost last night in the playoffs -[903.76 --> 905.76] so we're more like district one -[905.76 --> 906.76] we're more like the Winnipeg Jets -[906.76 --> 907.76] we're just going to plug along here -[907.76 --> 909.76] and win this competition, no problem -[909.76 --> 913.76] Well, there you have it, Langley, Emanuel lights -[913.76 --> 915.76] looks like it's going to be a tough competition -[915.76 --> 916.76] back to you, Rebecca -[916.76 --> 918.76] Thank you, Susan -[918.76 --> 919.76] There you have it, folks -[919.76 --> 922.76] It seems like this food drive will certainly be an exciting way -[922.76 --> 925.76] to bless a much needed organization in our community -[925.76 --> 928.76] Elder districts will have two weeks to collect items -[928.76 --> 930.76] with donations to be dropped off at the church -[930.76 --> 932.76] on Saturday, June 12th -[932.76 --> 934.76] Times for each district drop off -[934.76 --> 936.76] as well as a list of the most needed items -[936.76 --> 938.76] can be found in this week's bulletin -[938.76 --> 940.76] as well as the mid-week memo -[940.76 --> 942.76] We'll be back next time with an update -[942.76 --> 944.76] on the food drive competition -[944.76 --> 945.76] I'm Rebecca Pullman -[945.76 --> 948.76] and from all of us at Langley Emanuel CRC -[948.76 --> 950.76] and we'll see you, have a great day -[950.76 --> 956.76] music -[958.76 --> 961.76] I think Ken and Eric had too much fun with that -[961.76 --> 963.76] and I think that they have been wanting to be hockey players -[963.76 --> 965.76] and a postgame interview since they were little boys -[965.76 --> 970.56] and I think that they have been wanting to be hockey players in a post-game interview -[970.56 --> 972.02] since they were little boys. -[974.18 --> 978.26] There is more information on that food drive that is available to you in your e-bulletins -[978.26 --> 981.58] and will be available in the midweek memo, so I encourage you to check that out -[981.58 --> 985.52] and to represent your district well in this competition -[985.52 --> 990.10] and we will see and anticipate the prizes that will be offered there. -[990.54 --> 993.08] We're going to come in together to worship our God -[993.08 --> 995.32] and so as you're able, I'm going to invite you to stand -[995.32 --> 999.12] and maybe open your hands or at minimum open your heart -[999.12 --> 1001.76] to receive the greeting of our God. -[1005.18 --> 1009.98] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, -[1009.98 --> 1013.04] from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior -[1013.04 --> 1016.10] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[1017.30 --> 1017.72] Amen. -[1018.42 --> 1019.58] Let's worship God together. -[1019.58 --> 1026.34] Good morning and welcome to worship, be it online or in person. -[1026.96 --> 1030.96] Our call to worship this morning is from Psalm 30, verses 4 to 5. -[1031.54 --> 1034.54] Sing praises to the Lord, O you his saints, -[1034.90 --> 1036.72] and give thanks to his holy name. -[1037.32 --> 1039.16] For his anger is but for a moment, -[1039.56 --> 1041.34] and his favor is for a lifetime. -[1042.18 --> 1043.64] Weeping may tarry for the night, -[1043.82 --> 1045.62] but the joy comes with the morning. -[1045.62 --> 1045.74] Amen. -[1045.74 --> 1045.78] Amen. -[1045.78 --> 1045.82] Amen. -[1045.82 --> 1045.86] Amen. -[1045.86 --> 1045.90] Amen. -[1045.90 --> 1045.94] Amen. -[1045.94 --> 1045.98] Amen. -[1045.98 --> 1046.02] Amen. -[1049.58 --> 1075.98] Amen. -[1075.98 --> 1077.98] Amen. -[1077.98 --> 1092.04] Amen. -[1092.08 --> 1092.70] Amen. -[1092.70 --> 1105.56] Amen. -[1105.56 --> 1106.04] Amen. -[1106.04 --> 1108.64] We'll be soon -[1108.64 --> 1116.78] Of the bride waiting for the groom -[1116.78 --> 1122.30] We'll be a church ready for every heart -[1122.30 --> 1125.42] Longing for our King -[1125.42 --> 1130.46] We'll sing even so come -[1130.46 --> 1134.54] Lord Jesus come -[1134.54 --> 1139.14] Give us so come -[1139.14 --> 1143.30] Lord Jesus come -[1143.30 --> 1148.36] There will be justice -[1148.36 --> 1150.32] All will be new -[1150.32 --> 1152.66] Your name forever -[1152.66 --> 1154.88] Faithful and true -[1154.88 --> 1161.08] Jesus is coming soon -[1161.08 --> 1169.76] Like a bride waiting for the groom -[1169.76 --> 1174.90] We'll be a church ready for every heart -[1174.90 --> 1178.90] Longing for our King -[1178.90 --> 1183.50] We'll sing even so come -[1183.50 --> 1187.66] Lord Jesus come -[1187.66 --> 1192.50] Even so come -[1192.50 --> 1196.62] Lord Jesus come -[1196.62 --> 1202.16] So we wait -[1202.16 --> 1206.38] We wait for you -[1206.38 --> 1211.48] God we wait -[1211.48 --> 1215.22] You're coming soon -[1215.22 --> 1219.82] So we wait -[1219.82 --> 1220.90] We wait -[1220.90 --> 1223.22] We wait -[1223.22 --> 1225.60] For you -[1225.60 --> 1230.30] God we wait -[1230.30 --> 1235.04] You're coming soon -[1235.04 --> 1243.72] Like a bride waiting for her groom -[1243.72 --> 1247.98] We'll be a church ready for you -[1247.98 --> 1253.16] Every heart longing for our King -[1253.16 --> 1255.80] We'll sing -[1255.80 --> 1262.48] Like a bride waiting for her groom -[1262.48 --> 1266.56] We'll be a church ready for you -[1266.56 --> 1271.40] Every heart longing for our King -[1271.40 --> 1274.40] We sing -[1274.40 --> 1277.00] Even so come -[1277.00 --> 1277.50] Even so come -[1277.50 --> 1282.00] Lord Jesus come -[1282.00 --> 1286.94] Even so come -[1286.94 --> 1291.72] Lord Jesus come -[1291.72 --> 1301.20] Please join me in our prayer of confession and assurance -[1301.20 --> 1307.72] Dear God -[1307.72 --> 1313.28] We speak of these ways in which we are preparing ourselves for you -[1313.28 --> 1314.92] Jesus coming again -[1314.92 --> 1317.46] And yet we fall short in every way -[1317.46 --> 1320.60] We resolve to read our Bibles more often -[1320.60 --> 1322.82] And yet so often we fail to open them -[1322.82 --> 1323.76] Except for Sundays -[1323.76 --> 1326.02] We put down our sin -[1326.02 --> 1327.68] Only to pick it back up again -[1327.68 --> 1329.90] We try to be patient -[1329.90 --> 1330.46] Kind -[1330.46 --> 1331.74] And share Christian love -[1331.74 --> 1332.76] Only to turn around -[1332.76 --> 1334.24] And allow anger and judgment -[1334.24 --> 1335.36] To be our companions -[1335.36 --> 1338.14] But you are coming -[1338.14 --> 1338.72] Jesus -[1338.72 --> 1340.24] That is our hope -[1340.24 --> 1341.60] That is our future -[1341.60 --> 1343.74] Lesser lights and comforts -[1343.74 --> 1344.96] Grasp for our attention -[1344.96 --> 1346.60] As the happenings of our world -[1346.60 --> 1348.34] Flutter reality with panic -[1348.34 --> 1349.98] Or contrast with -[1349.98 --> 1352.46] Feeding provisions of peace and prosperity -[1352.46 --> 1355.50] But through the trials -[1355.50 --> 1356.28] Joys -[1356.28 --> 1356.78] Waiting -[1356.78 --> 1357.64] Struggles -[1357.64 --> 1358.34] Failures -[1358.34 --> 1359.00] Pain -[1359.00 --> 1361.62] It is our faith and hope in you -[1361.62 --> 1362.78] That carries us -[1362.78 --> 1364.20] And gives us life -[1364.20 --> 1366.36] Help us -[1366.36 --> 1366.92] Oh Lord -[1366.92 --> 1368.30] To be drawn to you -[1368.30 --> 1369.62] In awe and humility -[1369.62 --> 1370.64] Of your grace -[1370.64 --> 1372.70] That when we do fall short -[1372.70 --> 1373.40] Every day -[1373.40 --> 1375.58] We can rejoice in the knowledge -[1375.58 --> 1377.00] That your sacrifice -[1377.00 --> 1377.98] Your love -[1377.98 --> 1379.96] Has paid all past -[1379.96 --> 1381.88] Current and future debts -[1381.88 --> 1383.72] We have been -[1383.72 --> 1385.32] And are being made new -[1385.32 --> 1385.78] In you -[1385.78 --> 1386.30] Jesus -[1386.30 --> 1388.22] In your name we pray -[1388.22 --> 1388.98] Amen -[1388.98 --> 1393.68] Amen -[1393.68 --> 1395.00] Amen -[1395.00 --> 1395.36] Amen -[1395.36 --> 1396.84] Amen -[1396.84 --> 1397.36] Amen -[1397.36 --> 1397.62] Amen -[1397.62 --> 1398.72] Amen -[1398.72 --> 1400.08] Amen -[1400.08 --> 1401.70] Amen -[1401.70 --> 1402.28] Amen -[1402.28 --> 1402.84] Amen -[1402.84 --> 1404.56] Amen -[1404.56 --> 1406.32] Amen -[1406.32 --> 1406.34] Amen -[1406.34 --> 1406.86] Amen -[1406.86 --> 1409.06] Amen -[1409.06 --> 1410.44] Amen -[1410.44 --> 1411.02] Amen -[1411.02 --> 1411.58] Amen -[1411.58 --> 1412.58] Amen -[1412.74 --> 1414.06] Amen -[1414.06 --> 1414.86] Amen -[1414.86 --> 1415.38] Amen -[1415.40 --> 1416.82] Amen -[1416.82 --> 1416.90] Amen -[1416.90 --> 1417.54] Amen -[1417.54 --> 1417.62] Amen -[1417.62 --> 1417.88] Amen -[1417.88 --> 1418.82] Amen -[1418.82 --> 1430.22] Still, my soul be still -[1430.22 --> 1433.84] And do not fear -[1433.84 --> 1438.34] The winds of change may rage tomorrow -[1438.34 --> 1444.58] Your heart is at your side -[1444.58 --> 1447.80] No longer dread -[1447.80 --> 1452.62] The fires of unexpected sorrow -[1452.62 --> 1458.62] Lord, you are my God -[1458.62 --> 1461.60] And I will trust in you -[1461.60 --> 1465.78] And not be shaken -[1465.78 --> 1472.78] Lord, a peace renewed -[1472.78 --> 1477.46] The steadfast spirit within me -[1477.46 --> 1482.28] To act in you alone -[1482.28 --> 1501.10] Still, my soul be still -[1501.10 --> 1505.92] Do not be moved -[1505.92 --> 1509.92] By lesser lights and fleeting shadows -[1509.92 --> 1516.16] Hold on to his ways -[1516.16 --> 1518.92] With shield of faith -[1518.92 --> 1523.74] Against temptation's flaming arrow -[1523.74 --> 1528.56] Lord, you are my God -[1528.56 --> 1532.56] And I will trust in you -[1532.56 --> 1535.56] And not be shaken -[1535.56 --> 1542.56] Lord, a peace renewed -[1542.56 --> 1544.38] Peace, renew -[1544.38 --> 1547.38] The steadfast spirit -[1547.38 --> 1549.38] And will be -[1549.38 --> 1551.38] To rest -[1551.38 --> 1554.38] In you alone -[1554.38 --> 1559.20] Still, my soul be still -[1559.20 --> 1573.20] Still, my soul be still -[1573.20 --> 1577.20] Do not forsake -[1577.20 --> 1579.02] The truth you learned -[1579.02 --> 1579.68] The truth you learned -[1579.68 --> 1582.02] In the beginning -[1582.02 --> 1584.02] Wait -[1584.02 --> 1588.84] Upon the Lord -[1588.84 --> 1590.84] And hope will rise -[1590.84 --> 1591.66] The stars -[1591.66 --> 1593.66] As stars appear -[1593.66 --> 1594.66] When days -[1594.66 --> 1595.66] As stars appear -[1595.66 --> 1596.66] When days -[1596.66 --> 1597.66] In me -[1597.66 --> 1602.48] Lord, you are my God -[1602.48 --> 1604.48] And I will trust in you -[1604.48 --> 1609.48] And not be shaken -[1609.48 --> 1615.48] Lord, a peace renewed -[1615.48 --> 1617.30] You are my God -[1617.30 --> 1617.48] And not be shaken -[1617.48 --> 1618.30] You are my God -[1618.30 --> 1619.30] And not be shaken -[1619.30 --> 1620.30] Lord, a peace renewed -[1620.30 --> 1621.30] And not be shaken -[1621.30 --> 1622.30] Lord, a peace renewed -[1622.30 --> 1624.12] You are my God -[1624.12 --> 1625.12] And not be shaken -[1625.12 --> 1626.12] You are my God -[1626.12 --> 1628.12] You are my God -[1628.12 --> 1629.12] You are my God -[1629.12 --> 1633.12] You are my God -[1633.12 --> 1637.12] You are my God -[1637.12 --> 1638.38] You may be seated -[1638.38 --> 1646.22] Well, good morning, everyone. -[1646.44 --> 1647.88] We're back here again this morning -[1647.88 --> 1649.26] for some Kids Corner time -[1649.26 --> 1651.64] and it's a pleasure to be here again -[1651.64 --> 1652.46] Once a month -[1652.46 --> 1653.54] I look forward to this time -[1653.54 --> 1654.80] with the kids -[1654.80 --> 1656.64] whether I can see you or not -[1656.64 --> 1657.82] but today it's a special day -[1657.82 --> 1658.94] because we've got a bunch of kids -[1658.94 --> 1660.12] in the sanctuary here today -[1660.12 --> 1662.06] so it's been great to see them -[1662.06 --> 1663.64] and see the smiley face -[1663.64 --> 1665.02] and see how much kids have grown -[1665.02 --> 1666.14] so that's kind of exciting. -[1667.06 --> 1668.52] This morning, first thing -[1668.52 --> 1669.38] what maybe we'll do -[1669.38 --> 1670.98] is we've got Emma Smith -[1670.98 --> 1673.78] doing the memory work for us -[1673.78 --> 1675.16] so we will start with that -[1675.16 --> 1675.96] and then I'll introduce -[1675.96 --> 1677.42] the next part of the -[1677.42 --> 1679.34] children's worship time here -[1679.34 --> 1679.90] after that. -[1681.64 --> 1686.70] For I am the Lord your God -[1686.70 --> 1692.72] who takes hold of your right hand -[1692.72 --> 1695.16] and says to you -[1695.16 --> 1697.62] do not fear -[1697.62 --> 1701.18] I will help you -[1701.18 --> 1704.54] Isaiah 41 verse 13 -[1704.54 --> 1710.50] Alright, thanks Emma -[1710.50 --> 1711.12] that's awesome -[1711.12 --> 1711.88] that's pretty precious -[1711.88 --> 1712.52] to see that -[1712.52 --> 1713.12] so that's great -[1713.12 --> 1713.80] so this morning -[1713.80 --> 1716.42] I've got some guests -[1716.42 --> 1717.86] I've got another video -[1717.86 --> 1718.74] with some guests on there -[1718.74 --> 1719.36] I'm going to let them -[1719.36 --> 1720.68] introduce themselves to you -[1720.68 --> 1722.76] the story this morning -[1722.76 --> 1724.18] is about a story in the Bible -[1724.18 --> 1725.78] where Peter -[1725.78 --> 1726.64] the Apostle Peter -[1726.64 --> 1728.28] is doing a lot of preaching -[1728.28 --> 1729.32] and teaching -[1729.32 --> 1730.52] through after -[1730.52 --> 1734.30] as part of the Apostles -[1734.30 --> 1735.96] and going around Jerusalem -[1735.96 --> 1736.50] and stuff -[1736.50 --> 1738.34] and preaching the Gospel -[1738.34 --> 1739.30] and here in this story -[1739.30 --> 1740.74] it's about Tabith -[1740.74 --> 1742.06] who is also named Dorcas -[1742.06 --> 1744.22] so it's a story -[1744.22 --> 1745.34] that you don't hear too often -[1745.34 --> 1746.68] but it's one that we're -[1746.68 --> 1747.94] sharing with you this morning -[1747.94 --> 1749.88] so here it is -[1749.88 --> 1751.54] Alright everybody -[1751.54 --> 1752.32] we're here at the -[1752.32 --> 1753.56] Rollamans Place today -[1753.56 --> 1754.56] we're doing Kids Corner -[1754.56 --> 1755.74] here with the Rollamans Boys -[1755.74 --> 1756.96] today we have -[1756.96 --> 1757.78] who do we have with us -[1757.78 --> 1758.26] here today? -[1758.70 --> 1759.18] Ryan -[1759.18 --> 1761.06] Can you guys do that again? -[1761.12 --> 1761.62] Who's first? -[1762.10 --> 1762.50] Me -[1762.50 --> 1763.22] Ryan -[1763.22 --> 1763.98] And you are? -[1764.84 --> 1765.24] Second -[1765.24 --> 1765.88] Wesley -[1765.88 --> 1766.64] And your name is? -[1767.02 --> 1767.42] Wesley -[1767.42 --> 1767.82] Alright -[1767.82 --> 1768.94] Wesley and Ryan -[1768.94 --> 1769.68] Ryan I'm going to ask you -[1769.68 --> 1770.36] a couple questions -[1770.36 --> 1771.58] how are things going right now? -[1771.90 --> 1772.20] Good -[1772.20 --> 1772.88] How's school? -[1773.26 --> 1773.56] Good -[1773.56 --> 1774.32] How are your parents? -[1774.54 --> 1774.86] Good -[1774.86 --> 1775.46] Right on -[1775.46 --> 1775.98] Good answer -[1775.98 --> 1778.24] Wesley how's daycare going? -[1779.14 --> 1779.62] Bad -[1779.62 --> 1780.14] Uh oh -[1780.14 --> 1782.16] What are your favorite things to do? -[1784.28 --> 1784.68] Shows -[1784.68 --> 1785.40] And? -[1786.90 --> 1787.96] Video games -[1787.96 --> 1789.34] And what do you like to do outside? -[1791.22 --> 1791.74] Basketball -[1791.74 --> 1792.60] Alright -[1792.60 --> 1795.02] Today Ryan is going to share with us -[1795.02 --> 1796.14] one of his jokes -[1796.14 --> 1797.30] he's got a whole pile of jokes -[1797.30 --> 1798.50] but he's only going to give us -[1798.50 --> 1799.18] one of them today -[1799.18 --> 1800.50] Ryan give me a joke will ya? -[1801.50 --> 1803.10] What do you call -[1803.10 --> 1804.72] a fish with no lies? -[1804.72 --> 1806.28] A fish with no lies -[1806.28 --> 1807.26] I have no idea -[1807.26 --> 1808.36] Fsh -[1808.36 --> 1809.74] Ooh -[1809.74 --> 1810.56] Good one -[1810.56 --> 1812.28] Well I got a joke for you guys -[1812.28 --> 1813.02] I don't know if you'll think -[1813.02 --> 1813.62] this is funny -[1813.62 --> 1815.02] we got a bunch of dairy farmers -[1815.02 --> 1815.60] in our church -[1815.60 --> 1816.66] so I'm going to do this joke -[1816.66 --> 1817.56] what do you call a cow -[1817.56 --> 1818.28] with no legs? -[1819.28 --> 1820.20] A ground beef -[1820.20 --> 1820.88] Ground beef -[1820.88 --> 1821.62] you knew that one -[1821.62 --> 1822.26] that's awesome -[1822.26 --> 1824.38] So Ryan and Wesley here -[1824.38 --> 1825.10] want to challenge me -[1825.10 --> 1826.32] to a couple athletic -[1826.32 --> 1827.68] competitions here -[1827.68 --> 1828.62] Ryan's going to do -[1828.62 --> 1830.16] a basketball competition here -[1830.16 --> 1831.58] he's going to show a cool move -[1831.58 --> 1832.12] and I've got to see -[1832.12 --> 1833.20] if I can do it as well -[1833.20 --> 1834.86] and Wesley over here -[1834.86 --> 1835.40] he's going to do -[1835.40 --> 1836.02] a little scooter -[1836.02 --> 1837.26] we're going to have a scooter race -[1837.26 --> 1839.26] and he thinks he's better than me -[1839.26 --> 1839.84] so we're going to see -[1839.84 --> 1840.52] what happens here -[1840.52 --> 1840.84] alright -[1840.84 --> 1841.58] stay tuned -[1841.58 --> 1841.88] Hold on, are you ready? -[1842.02 --> 1843.12] So here's the competition -[1843.12 --> 1843.74] you and me -[1843.74 --> 1844.70] look at the camera over there -[1844.70 --> 1845.36] we're going to race -[1845.36 --> 1846.30] down the driveway here -[1846.30 --> 1847.74] it's quite the decline -[1847.74 --> 1848.78] and we're going to -[1848.78 --> 1849.94] jump over the curb -[1849.94 --> 1850.70] and we're going to race -[1850.70 --> 1851.56] toward the camera -[1851.56 --> 1852.08] got it? -[1852.34 --> 1852.60] Yeah -[1852.60 --> 1853.22] okay -[1853.22 --> 1854.88] alright -[1854.88 --> 1855.58] set go -[1855.58 --> 1865.54] alright -[1865.54 --> 1865.82] alright -[1865.82 --> 1866.66] Wesley, who do you think -[1866.66 --> 1867.40] won that race? -[1868.06 --> 1868.72] you did? -[1868.92 --> 1869.64] what kind of shirt -[1869.64 --> 1870.20] you got on? -[1870.96 --> 1871.30] um -[1871.30 --> 1872.54] superman -[1872.54 --> 1873.10] superman -[1873.10 --> 1874.24] of course you won that race -[1874.24 --> 1875.18] alright, thank you -[1875.18 --> 1875.92] here we are -[1875.92 --> 1876.32] we're going to do -[1876.32 --> 1877.52] a little basketball competition -[1877.52 --> 1877.76] here -[1877.76 --> 1878.30] Ryan's here -[1878.30 --> 1878.70] is a little bit -[1878.70 --> 1879.70] of a basketball expert -[1879.70 --> 1879.94] here -[1879.94 --> 1880.64] so he's going to -[1880.64 --> 1881.50] try to do something -[1881.50 --> 1882.54] that I can't do -[1882.54 --> 1883.04] and we're going to -[1883.04 --> 1883.94] see if I can do it -[1883.94 --> 1884.38] alright -[1884.38 --> 1885.46] here we go -[1885.46 --> 1892.64] okay -[1892.64 --> 1893.64] my turn to go in here -[1893.64 --> 1893.94] right now -[1893.94 --> 1894.78] so what was that again -[1894.78 --> 1896.06] behind the back twice -[1896.06 --> 1896.70] and then -[1896.70 --> 1897.74] put it in the hoop -[1897.74 --> 1899.96] through the legs -[1899.96 --> 1900.70] behind the back -[1900.70 --> 1901.20] through the hoop -[1901.20 --> 1901.70] here we go -[1901.70 --> 1902.58] through the legs -[1902.58 --> 1904.58] behind the back -[1904.58 --> 1905.22] how about this -[1905.22 --> 1906.94] no -[1906.94 --> 1908.12] you have to shoot -[1908.12 --> 1909.68] did I do it right? -[1909.70 --> 1911.44] shoot -[1911.44 --> 1913.62] alright Ryan -[1913.62 --> 1913.98] Wesley -[1913.98 --> 1914.58] you guys are going -[1914.58 --> 1915.04] to help me -[1915.04 --> 1915.82] tell the story -[1915.82 --> 1916.48] tell the kids -[1916.48 --> 1917.02] and all the people -[1917.02 --> 1918.70] watching on TV -[1918.70 --> 1919.42] at home -[1919.42 --> 1920.86] for the church service -[1920.86 --> 1922.40] have you guys -[1922.40 --> 1923.82] heard this story before? -[1924.34 --> 1924.58] yeah -[1924.58 --> 1925.74] you've heard it before? -[1926.30 --> 1928.80] I remember it -[1928.80 --> 1930.12] but I couldn't -[1930.12 --> 1931.00] remember it too well -[1931.00 --> 1931.90] so this is kind of -[1931.90 --> 1932.40] a good story -[1932.40 --> 1933.50] to go over again -[1933.50 --> 1935.10] who are the characters -[1935.10 --> 1935.78] in the story? -[1936.50 --> 1936.98] Peter -[1936.98 --> 1938.14] the widow -[1938.14 --> 1939.86] and -[1939.86 --> 1941.20] Tabitha -[1941.20 --> 1941.86] Tabitha -[1941.86 --> 1942.42] what was her -[1942.42 --> 1943.24] she had another name -[1943.24 --> 1944.08] what was her other name? -[1944.26 --> 1944.64] Dorcas -[1944.64 --> 1945.20] Dorcas -[1945.20 --> 1947.28] and what was she? -[1947.76 --> 1948.62] what was her job? -[1949.08 --> 1950.40] she helped the poor -[1950.40 --> 1950.80] yeah -[1950.80 --> 1951.76] she was a disciple -[1951.76 --> 1952.56] yeah -[1952.56 --> 1952.84] okay -[1952.84 --> 1956.30] so she helped the poor -[1956.30 --> 1957.90] and she did some good things -[1957.90 --> 1958.94] she was always helping people -[1958.94 --> 1959.26] I think -[1959.26 --> 1959.50] right? -[1959.64 --> 1959.86] yeah -[1959.86 --> 1962.78] what happened to Tabitha -[1962.78 --> 1963.40] in the story? -[1963.86 --> 1965.46] she got sick and died -[1965.46 --> 1966.28] and then -[1966.28 --> 1966.30] and then -[1966.30 --> 1967.56] and then -[1967.56 --> 1969.36] the widows -[1969.36 --> 1970.04] called her -[1970.04 --> 1970.58] and then -[1970.58 --> 1971.70] he came -[1971.70 --> 1972.92] he prayed -[1972.92 --> 1973.90] and then -[1973.90 --> 1976.02] he said -[1976.02 --> 1976.68] Tabitha -[1976.68 --> 1977.42] wake up -[1977.42 --> 1978.52] and then Tabitha -[1978.52 --> 1979.60] opened her eyes -[1979.60 --> 1980.20] okay -[1980.20 --> 1981.40] so -[1981.40 --> 1982.88] Wesley's really getting ahead -[1982.88 --> 1983.74] on me on the story -[1983.74 --> 1984.48] but that's awesome -[1984.48 --> 1985.46] Wesley knows the story -[1985.46 --> 1985.98] really good -[1985.98 --> 1986.26] so -[1986.26 --> 1987.88] Tabitha got sick -[1987.88 --> 1988.58] and she died -[1988.58 --> 1989.44] and then what did they do -[1989.44 --> 1990.08] with their body? -[1990.38 --> 1992.20] they put it in an upstairs room -[1992.20 --> 1993.08] and after they -[1993.08 --> 1993.72] cleaned it -[1993.72 --> 1994.44] and they prepared it -[1994.44 --> 1995.70] and they put it in an upstairs room -[1995.70 --> 1997.28] so -[1997.28 --> 1999.04] there's a guy in the Bible -[1999.04 --> 1999.56] named Peter -[1999.56 --> 2000.72] they talk about him a lot -[2000.72 --> 2002.30] and he was in a town nearby -[2002.30 --> 2003.12] called Lydda -[2003.12 --> 2004.26] which was near the town -[2004.26 --> 2004.70] they were in -[2004.70 --> 2005.40] called Joppa -[2005.40 --> 2006.72] and how does Peter -[2006.72 --> 2008.04] become part of this story? -[2008.14 --> 2009.20] what does he do in this story? -[2009.54 --> 2010.82] he comes from -[2010.82 --> 2012.56] because the widows -[2012.56 --> 2013.28] call him -[2013.28 --> 2014.74] and -[2014.74 --> 2016.78] and -[2016.78 --> 2017.64] he -[2017.64 --> 2019.30] he -[2019.30 --> 2020.40] prays -[2020.40 --> 2021.10] and then -[2021.10 --> 2023.92] he says -[2023.92 --> 2024.42] Tabitha -[2024.42 --> 2025.18] get up -[2025.18 --> 2026.12] and then -[2026.12 --> 2026.80] Tabitha -[2026.80 --> 2028.58] looks at him -[2028.58 --> 2029.66] and -[2029.66 --> 2030.78] he gets up -[2030.78 --> 2031.40] right -[2031.40 --> 2032.86] so when Peter -[2032.86 --> 2033.90] came to the house -[2033.90 --> 2035.78] when he first got to the house -[2035.78 --> 2037.14] what was happening in the house? -[2037.26 --> 2038.40] there was all kinds of commotion -[2038.40 --> 2038.90] happening there -[2038.90 --> 2039.84] what was happening there -[2039.84 --> 2040.38] in the house? -[2040.90 --> 2042.04] the widows were crying -[2042.04 --> 2042.70] so all the -[2042.70 --> 2044.28] all the widows from the town -[2044.28 --> 2044.84] were crying -[2044.84 --> 2045.80] and they were showing him -[2045.80 --> 2046.96] showing Peter something -[2046.96 --> 2048.58] what did they have -[2048.58 --> 2049.40] that they wanted to show -[2049.40 --> 2050.12] show him? -[2050.58 --> 2050.76] oh -[2050.76 --> 2051.90] the clothes that -[2051.90 --> 2053.04] Tabitha made -[2053.04 --> 2054.30] yeah Tabitha made a whole -[2054.30 --> 2055.00] she wants to have been -[2055.00 --> 2055.96] somebody who made clothes -[2055.96 --> 2056.86] and they were really proud -[2056.86 --> 2057.46] of the clothes -[2057.46 --> 2058.12] that she made -[2058.12 --> 2058.38] so -[2058.38 --> 2058.98] she -[2058.98 --> 2060.22] these widows -[2060.22 --> 2061.50] were pretty excited -[2061.50 --> 2061.80] about it -[2061.80 --> 2062.46] and they wanted to show -[2062.46 --> 2063.32] Peter how much of a -[2063.32 --> 2064.44] great person she was -[2064.44 --> 2065.30] at that point -[2065.30 --> 2066.04] so Peter -[2066.04 --> 2067.90] all these women -[2067.90 --> 2068.36] are crying -[2068.36 --> 2068.74] and then -[2068.74 --> 2069.66] Peter -[2069.66 --> 2070.36] does what? -[2070.42 --> 2070.88] what does he tell -[2070.88 --> 2071.26] all the women -[2071.26 --> 2071.62] to do? -[2072.36 --> 2072.84] um -[2072.84 --> 2074.76] what are they -[2074.76 --> 2075.38] supposed to do? -[2076.06 --> 2076.46] wait -[2076.46 --> 2077.06] no -[2077.06 --> 2077.88] he asked them -[2077.88 --> 2078.28] to leave -[2078.28 --> 2078.88] because he's -[2078.88 --> 2079.44] going to do what? -[2079.50 --> 2080.40] what does he do next? -[2080.74 --> 2081.10] pray -[2081.10 --> 2082.68] he prays -[2082.68 --> 2084.54] beside Tabitha -[2084.54 --> 2085.68] and he says to her -[2085.68 --> 2086.98] Tabitha get up -[2086.98 --> 2088.00] Tabitha get up -[2088.00 --> 2088.88] so he -[2088.88 --> 2090.24] Peter grabs her hand -[2090.24 --> 2091.50] and gets her to stand up -[2091.50 --> 2092.30] and takes her out -[2092.30 --> 2092.60] of the room -[2092.60 --> 2093.74] and what was the reaction -[2093.74 --> 2094.86] of all the people -[2094.86 --> 2095.70] when they saw -[2095.70 --> 2097.18] Tabitha come out -[2097.18 --> 2097.58] of the room -[2097.58 --> 2098.66] um -[2098.66 --> 2099.82] they were happy -[2099.82 --> 2101.46] and what did the people do? -[2101.62 --> 2103.14] this was an amazing miracle -[2103.14 --> 2103.92] I don't think people -[2103.92 --> 2104.90] have ever seen somebody -[2104.90 --> 2106.02] be raised from the dead -[2106.02 --> 2106.04] um -[2106.04 --> 2107.44] they started to believe in God -[2107.44 --> 2108.26] so they thought -[2108.26 --> 2109.10] this is pretty cool -[2109.10 --> 2109.74] this God -[2109.74 --> 2110.60] is quite something -[2110.60 --> 2111.46] so maybe we should -[2111.46 --> 2112.34] follow him too -[2112.34 --> 2114.44] so the story -[2114.44 --> 2115.52] has a couple ideas -[2115.52 --> 2116.08] uh -[2116.08 --> 2117.04] that are important -[2117.04 --> 2117.56] what do you think -[2117.56 --> 2118.10] one of the -[2118.10 --> 2119.18] what is one of the -[2119.18 --> 2120.38] one ideas that's really -[2120.38 --> 2121.20] important in this story -[2121.20 --> 2122.40] what makes it kind of special? -[2122.74 --> 2123.80] to help other people -[2123.80 --> 2125.34] to help other people -[2125.34 --> 2126.14] and that -[2126.14 --> 2127.42] Peter does something -[2127.42 --> 2127.86] amazing -[2127.86 --> 2128.54] which is -[2128.54 --> 2130.50] what does Peter do? -[2131.02 --> 2132.06] make her alive -[2132.06 --> 2132.86] makes her alive -[2132.86 --> 2133.58] and makes people -[2133.58 --> 2134.20] want to believe -[2134.20 --> 2135.12] and follow Jesus -[2135.12 --> 2136.94] and the second thing -[2136.94 --> 2137.42] that's cool -[2137.42 --> 2137.96] in this story -[2137.96 --> 2138.32] is that -[2138.32 --> 2139.20] remember Peter -[2139.20 --> 2140.04] was in Joppa -[2140.04 --> 2140.76] and then he went -[2140.76 --> 2141.26] to Lydda -[2141.26 --> 2141.98] or he was in Lydda -[2141.98 --> 2142.84] and went to Joppa -[2142.84 --> 2143.56] that's how -[2143.56 --> 2145.00] that's how -[2145.00 --> 2145.88] back in those days -[2145.88 --> 2146.68] that's how the -[2146.68 --> 2148.26] good news of Jesus -[2148.26 --> 2148.82] was spread -[2148.82 --> 2149.36] they didn't have -[2149.36 --> 2149.76] do you think -[2149.76 --> 2150.38] they had computers -[2150.38 --> 2150.96] back then? -[2151.22 --> 2151.62] no -[2151.62 --> 2152.54] did they have TVs? -[2152.82 --> 2153.06] no -[2153.06 --> 2154.54] so the only way -[2154.54 --> 2155.32] they never had electricity -[2155.32 --> 2156.00] they didn't even -[2156.00 --> 2156.60] have electricity -[2156.60 --> 2157.58] so the only way -[2157.58 --> 2158.68] information could get -[2158.68 --> 2159.78] transferred around -[2159.78 --> 2160.70] from city to city -[2160.70 --> 2161.28] is if somebody -[2161.28 --> 2162.02] walked around -[2162.02 --> 2162.68] and shared -[2162.68 --> 2163.92] the news -[2163.92 --> 2164.60] so that's how -[2164.60 --> 2167.12] they would write stuff -[2167.12 --> 2167.72] and they could send -[2167.72 --> 2168.40] letters and stuff -[2168.40 --> 2168.94] that's the way -[2168.94 --> 2169.50] things were done -[2169.50 --> 2170.02] back then -[2170.02 --> 2171.16] so that's how -[2171.16 --> 2172.22] the good news -[2172.22 --> 2173.08] of Jesus Christ -[2173.08 --> 2173.94] was passed around -[2173.94 --> 2174.80] from town to town -[2174.80 --> 2175.46] so that's kind of -[2175.46 --> 2177.54] another fun thing -[2177.54 --> 2178.08] that happened -[2178.08 --> 2178.76] in this story -[2178.76 --> 2179.56] so thanks for -[2179.56 --> 2179.98] helping me out -[2179.98 --> 2180.44] with this story -[2180.44 --> 2181.88] that's it for today -[2181.88 --> 2182.76] do you guys -[2182.76 --> 2183.04] want to do -[2183.04 --> 2183.64] another challenge -[2183.64 --> 2184.34] on the trampoline? -[2184.74 --> 2185.02] yeah -[2185.02 --> 2185.60] okay -[2185.60 --> 2186.30] let's do that -[2186.30 --> 2187.84] show me some -[2187.84 --> 2188.68] bomb drops -[2188.68 --> 2189.66] Ryan what do you got? -[2190.08 --> 2190.34] um -[2190.34 --> 2191.34] I got a back drop -[2191.34 --> 2191.82] show me -[2191.82 --> 2194.24] nice -[2194.24 --> 2196.38] I've done it before -[2196.38 --> 2197.06] alright I'm going to -[2197.06 --> 2197.56] try one of those -[2197.56 --> 2198.22] get out of my way -[2198.22 --> 2199.30] this could get ugly -[2199.30 --> 2200.16] can we go -[2200.16 --> 2201.06] my dad did it -[2201.06 --> 2202.06] yeah -[2202.06 --> 2202.90] did it -[2202.90 --> 2203.92] my dad did it -[2203.92 --> 2205.26] have a good Sunday -[2205.26 --> 2205.32] have a good Sunday -[2205.32 --> 2217.44] expected Eric to -[2217.44 --> 2218.02] beat the kids -[2218.02 --> 2218.54] in all three -[2218.54 --> 2219.12] competitions -[2219.12 --> 2220.68] because that just -[2220.68 --> 2221.46] seems like Eric -[2221.46 --> 2222.16] he wouldn't lose -[2222.16 --> 2222.66] no matter who -[2222.66 --> 2223.26] he's competing -[2223.26 --> 2223.70] against -[2223.70 --> 2226.68] we have an -[2226.68 --> 2227.16] opportunity -[2227.16 --> 2228.30] in our -[2228.30 --> 2229.06] worship this -[2229.06 --> 2229.72] morning to -[2229.72 --> 2230.50] share in a -[2230.50 --> 2231.30] special time -[2231.30 --> 2232.72] as we -[2232.72 --> 2233.32] welcome -[2233.32 --> 2234.16] a new -[2234.16 --> 2234.56] member -[2234.56 --> 2235.82] now new -[2235.82 --> 2236.56] is a relative -[2236.56 --> 2237.24] term here -[2237.24 --> 2238.74] because we are -[2238.74 --> 2239.46] going to welcome -[2239.46 --> 2240.38] Clem to -[2240.38 --> 2241.18] full covenant -[2241.18 --> 2241.58] membership -[2241.58 --> 2242.24] but Clem's been -[2242.24 --> 2242.90] around here for -[2242.90 --> 2244.74] 27 years -[2244.74 --> 2246.48] something like that -[2246.48 --> 2246.80] so -[2246.80 --> 2248.60] Clem told me -[2248.60 --> 2249.30] himself it's -[2249.30 --> 2249.90] about time -[2249.90 --> 2251.70] but we are -[2251.70 --> 2252.44] really grateful -[2252.44 --> 2253.18] and excited -[2253.18 --> 2253.80] that we get to -[2253.80 --> 2254.62] share in this -[2254.62 --> 2255.84] time together -[2255.84 --> 2256.38] and so Clem -[2256.38 --> 2256.90] if you'd come -[2256.90 --> 2257.50] forward -[2257.50 --> 2261.04] Clem's going to -[2261.04 --> 2261.46] come up -[2261.46 --> 2262.12] and we're going -[2262.12 --> 2262.72] to ask him -[2262.72 --> 2263.22] just a couple -[2263.22 --> 2263.62] questions -[2263.62 --> 2264.40] so he affirms -[2264.40 --> 2264.88] his faith -[2264.88 --> 2265.22] and his -[2265.22 --> 2265.54] commitment -[2265.54 --> 2266.08] to us -[2266.08 --> 2266.64] as a -[2266.64 --> 2267.46] body of -[2267.46 --> 2267.90] believers -[2267.90 --> 2269.18] and we will -[2269.18 --> 2269.92] welcome him -[2269.92 --> 2271.08] as a member -[2271.08 --> 2272.44] of our -[2272.44 --> 2273.04] fellowship -[2273.04 --> 2274.22] won't you -[2274.22 --> 2275.02] grab that -[2275.02 --> 2277.50] Clem -[2277.50 --> 2278.30] Molenkamp -[2278.30 --> 2279.12] we want to -[2279.12 --> 2279.64] welcome you -[2279.64 --> 2280.04] to the -[2280.04 --> 2280.40] fellowship -[2280.40 --> 2281.42] of this -[2281.42 --> 2281.96] church -[2281.96 --> 2282.92] it is our -[2282.92 --> 2283.42] hope and -[2283.42 --> 2283.90] our prayer -[2283.90 --> 2284.78] that here -[2284.78 --> 2285.66] your faith -[2285.66 --> 2286.26] in God -[2286.26 --> 2286.64] will be -[2286.64 --> 2287.10] strengthened -[2287.10 --> 2287.50] that your -[2287.50 --> 2288.02] love for -[2288.02 --> 2288.34] Jesus -[2288.34 --> 2288.92] will be -[2288.92 --> 2289.28] grown -[2289.28 --> 2289.88] and that -[2289.88 --> 2290.32] you will -[2290.32 --> 2291.32] find opportunity -[2291.32 --> 2292.20] to serve -[2292.20 --> 2292.52] in the -[2292.52 --> 2292.76] spirit -[2292.76 --> 2293.52] as you -[2293.52 --> 2294.10] join us -[2294.10 --> 2294.96] on mission -[2294.96 --> 2295.60] with God -[2295.60 --> 2296.18] to the -[2296.18 --> 2296.58] community -[2296.58 --> 2297.66] and maybe -[2297.66 --> 2298.78] in 12 -[2298.78 --> 2299.42] minutes or so -[2299.42 --> 2299.84] time we'll -[2299.84 --> 2300.28] know exactly -[2300.28 --> 2300.64] what that -[2300.64 --> 2301.16] service looks -[2301.16 --> 2301.40] like -[2301.40 --> 2303.96] as we -[2303.96 --> 2304.44] welcome you -[2304.44 --> 2305.06] into this -[2305.06 --> 2305.64] fellowship -[2305.64 --> 2306.26] we want to -[2306.26 --> 2307.06] affirm the -[2307.06 --> 2307.62] faith that -[2307.62 --> 2308.00] you have -[2308.00 --> 2308.68] professed and -[2308.68 --> 2309.32] your commitment -[2309.32 --> 2309.96] to God's -[2309.96 --> 2310.62] mission in -[2310.62 --> 2311.22] and through -[2311.22 --> 2312.02] Langley -[2312.02 --> 2312.74] Emmanuel to -[2312.74 --> 2313.34] our city -[2313.34 --> 2314.22] and region -[2314.22 --> 2315.00] and to -[2315.00 --> 2315.46] the world -[2315.46 --> 2316.04] beyond -[2316.04 --> 2316.96] to do so -[2316.96 --> 2317.50] I'm going to -[2317.50 --> 2318.04] ask you -[2318.04 --> 2318.90] three questions -[2318.90 --> 2319.24] and I'll -[2319.24 --> 2319.64] invite your -[2319.64 --> 2320.10] response -[2320.10 --> 2322.08] Clem -[2322.08 --> 2323.04] do you -[2323.04 --> 2324.10] believe in -[2324.10 --> 2324.84] Jesus as -[2324.84 --> 2325.38] your savior -[2325.38 --> 2326.02] and lord -[2326.02 --> 2326.62] and that in -[2326.62 --> 2327.76] him only is -[2327.76 --> 2328.50] hope and -[2328.50 --> 2329.24] freedom from -[2329.24 --> 2330.34] sin found -[2330.34 --> 2332.48] do you believe -[2332.48 --> 2333.06] that the bible -[2333.06 --> 2333.84] is the word of -[2333.84 --> 2334.50] God revealing -[2334.50 --> 2335.34] his plan for -[2335.34 --> 2336.06] redemption in -[2336.06 --> 2336.70] Jesus Christ -[2336.70 --> 2337.14] and that the -[2337.14 --> 2338.08] preaching and -[2338.08 --> 2338.84] teaching of -[2338.84 --> 2339.22] Langley -[2339.22 --> 2340.34] Emmanuel reflect -[2340.34 --> 2341.62] this revelation -[2341.62 --> 2343.08] and third -[2343.08 --> 2343.96] do you promise -[2343.96 --> 2344.86] with the help -[2344.86 --> 2345.38] of the holy -[2345.38 --> 2346.30] spirit and all -[2346.30 --> 2347.02] our brothers and -[2347.02 --> 2347.98] sisters to do -[2347.98 --> 2349.04] all you can to -[2349.04 --> 2349.76] strengthen your -[2349.76 --> 2350.58] relationship to -[2350.58 --> 2351.16] Jesus by -[2351.16 --> 2352.00] participating in -[2352.00 --> 2352.84] the life and -[2352.84 --> 2353.48] mission of this -[2353.48 --> 2354.32] church by -[2354.32 --> 2355.26] recognizing its -[2355.26 --> 2356.18] oversight and -[2356.18 --> 2357.32] authority and -[2357.32 --> 2358.24] joining with us -[2358.24 --> 2359.36] on mission for -[2359.36 --> 2360.50] Jesus in this -[2360.50 --> 2361.80] community in our -[2361.80 --> 2362.92] city and to the -[2362.92 --> 2364.46] world Clem what -[2364.46 --> 2365.06] is your answer -[2365.06 --> 2366.52] I do God -[2366.52 --> 2367.16] helping me -[2367.16 --> 2369.74] amen I do God -[2369.74 --> 2371.08] helping me and -[2371.08 --> 2372.10] of course you -[2372.10 --> 2374.06] all helping as -[2374.06 --> 2374.72] well can we just -[2374.72 --> 2375.38] take a moment and -[2375.38 --> 2376.04] praise God and -[2376.04 --> 2376.76] thank him for -[2376.76 --> 2377.54] welcoming and -[2377.54 --> 2378.54] encouraging Clem on -[2378.54 --> 2379.10] this journey of -[2379.10 --> 2379.66] faith you can do -[2379.66 --> 2380.26] that by clapping -[2380.26 --> 2380.80] together -[2380.80 --> 2382.60] thank you -[2382.60 --> 2390.02] and I have -[2390.02 --> 2391.70] Pearl come and -[2391.70 --> 2392.68] she's going to -[2392.68 --> 2393.36] lead us in -[2393.36 --> 2394.24] preparing for the -[2394.24 --> 2394.64] offering -[2394.64 --> 2413.58] good morning -[2413.58 --> 2414.92] so good to be -[2414.92 --> 2415.74] here after so -[2415.74 --> 2416.28] many months -[2416.28 --> 2418.68] so my name is -[2418.68 --> 2419.52] Pearl Dunhan I'm -[2419.52 --> 2420.32] a deacon here at -[2420.32 --> 2421.92] the Langley Manus -[2421.92 --> 2423.86] COC we continue our -[2423.86 --> 2425.26] worship by giving of -[2425.26 --> 2426.62] our tithes and our -[2426.62 --> 2428.72] offerings and our -[2428.72 --> 2429.96] first offering is for -[2429.96 --> 2430.98] the budget of this -[2430.98 --> 2431.76] church for the -[2431.76 --> 2432.52] ministries of this -[2432.52 --> 2434.12] church and our -[2434.12 --> 2435.16] second offering is -[2435.16 --> 2437.36] for C10 C10 stands -[2437.36 --> 2438.34] for commission to -[2438.34 --> 2440.08] every nation and it -[2440.08 --> 2441.64] is the means by which -[2441.64 --> 2443.82] we give to Ariel and -[2443.82 --> 2445.36] Jody Gonzalez in -[2445.36 --> 2447.62] Mexico I emailed her -[2447.62 --> 2448.54] this week for an -[2448.54 --> 2449.38] update so that I -[2449.38 --> 2450.56] could share with you -[2450.56 --> 2451.52] what's happening in -[2451.52 --> 2453.40] Mexico she's had such a -[2453.40 --> 2455.10] busy week that just -[2455.10 --> 2456.98] three minutes before I -[2456.98 --> 2458.34] left her church here -[2458.34 --> 2459.76] an email finally came -[2459.76 --> 2461.06] through so I'm going to -[2461.06 --> 2462.70] read to you this email -[2462.70 --> 2464.50] she writes good morning -[2464.50 --> 2465.92] Pearl I'm so sorry for -[2465.92 --> 2466.74] not getting back to -[2466.74 --> 2468.88] you I hope that this -[2468.88 --> 2469.80] gets to you on time -[2469.80 --> 2470.90] this week has been -[2470.90 --> 2473.24] crazy ministry in -[2473.24 --> 2474.58] Mexico is never ending -[2474.58 --> 2475.60] which for us is -[2475.60 --> 2478.56] wonderful El Faro men's -[2478.56 --> 2479.88] home is bursting at the -[2479.88 --> 2481.24] seams as we are at our -[2481.24 --> 2483.94] fullest of 15 men we -[2483.94 --> 2485.16] are working out a deal -[2485.16 --> 2486.72] with a mobile seller to -[2486.72 --> 2488.16] purchase a single wide -[2488.16 --> 2489.20] mobile home for the -[2489.20 --> 2492.22] property behind us the -[2492.22 --> 2493.36] women's Bible study is -[2493.36 --> 2494.76] doing well on Mother's -[2494.76 --> 2495.84] day we had our first -[2495.84 --> 2496.92] outreach event in a -[2496.92 --> 2498.18] community near the dunk -[2498.18 --> 2500.06] it was wonderful to -[2500.06 --> 2501.42] serve and share the good -[2501.42 --> 2502.86] news of Jesus Christ -[2502.86 --> 2506.38] she finishes with Langley -[2506.38 --> 2507.64] Emmanuel congregation -[2507.64 --> 2509.56] you have been such a -[2509.56 --> 2511.20] blessing to us especially -[2511.20 --> 2513.54] through this pandemic I -[2513.54 --> 2514.96] have never felt this close -[2514.96 --> 2516.86] to home with two borders -[2516.86 --> 2520.52] in between thank you and -[2520.52 --> 2521.40] then believe it or not I -[2521.40 --> 2523.08] got a handwritten note from -[2523.08 --> 2525.52] Jody's sister Brenda to -[2525.52 --> 2529.50] add to this she writes in -[2529.50 --> 2530.70] addition to the email -[2530.70 --> 2533.08] Jody sent to you Jody -[2533.08 --> 2534.22] also wants to say this -[2534.22 --> 2535.64] many are getting the -[2535.64 --> 2538.16] vaccination in Mexico as -[2538.16 --> 2539.38] they have made it easy to -[2539.38 --> 2542.16] obtain life didn't really -[2542.16 --> 2544.08] stop due to COVID as -[2544.08 --> 2545.34] people still needed to go -[2545.34 --> 2547.98] to work stores are still -[2547.98 --> 2550.98] closed to kids and schools -[2550.98 --> 2552.90] are also still closed -[2552.90 --> 2559.64] Hebrews 13 verse 15 reads -[2559.64 --> 2561.64] through Jesus therefore -[2561.64 --> 2564.02] let us continually offer to -[2564.02 --> 2565.98] God a sacrifice of praise -[2565.98 --> 2567.82] the fruit of lips that -[2567.82 --> 2570.64] confess his name and do not -[2570.64 --> 2572.32] forget to do good and to -[2572.32 --> 2574.32] share with others for with -[2574.32 --> 2576.76] such sacrifices God is pleased -[2576.76 --> 2579.84] and next week's offering is -[2579.84 --> 2582.24] for Wellspring UBCO in -[2582.24 --> 2583.50] support of the chaplaincy -[2583.50 --> 2586.94] there and it is ably run by -[2586.94 --> 2591.04] Dr. Todd Statham and the -[2591.04 --> 2596.56] ministry at Wellspring UBCO is -[2596.56 --> 2598.46] to equip and encourage students -[2598.46 --> 2600.66] staff and faculty to be -[2600.66 --> 2602.24] lifelong disciples of Jesus -[2602.24 --> 2605.46] so remember to give -[2605.46 --> 2608.46] generously here both in person -[2608.46 --> 2610.06] and using the methods -[2610.06 --> 2611.30] available that you find in -[2611.30 --> 2612.96] your e-bulletins thank you -[2628.46 --> 2650.52] my name is Frank and I'm an elder -[2650.52 --> 2654.10] here at Emmanuel I have the -[2654.10 --> 2655.36] privilege to lead you in -[2655.36 --> 2656.90] congregational prayer this -[2656.90 --> 2661.48] morning this is the day that -[2661.48 --> 2664.34] the Lord has made let us -[2664.34 --> 2666.54] rejoice and be glad in it -[2666.54 --> 2670.12] yes we can rejoice on this -[2670.12 --> 2672.44] awesome Sunday morning for -[2672.44 --> 2674.28] there is lots to be thankful -[2674.28 --> 2678.08] for this beautiful sunny spring -[2678.08 --> 2680.96] day we see the flowers the -[2680.96 --> 2683.00] trees the new young animals -[2683.00 --> 2685.14] sprouting and growing -[2685.14 --> 2690.72] all the things you created we -[2690.72 --> 2691.82] thank you father for the -[2691.82 --> 2695.04] opportunity to gather again to -[2695.04 --> 2697.62] share in communion and see faces -[2697.62 --> 2699.26] that we may not have seen in a -[2699.26 --> 2700.08] number of months -[2700.08 --> 2705.10] Lord we thank you for Jesus for the -[2705.10 --> 2708.26] freedom he gave to all people with -[2708.26 --> 2712.84] his death resurrection and ascension -[2712.84 --> 2714.70] and as we have just celebrated -[2714.70 --> 2717.30] Pentecost this past week and the -[2717.30 --> 2720.94] outpouring of your spirit Lord thank -[2720.94 --> 2724.84] you father we also want to pray for -[2724.84 --> 2726.84] all the first nations in BC this week -[2726.84 --> 2729.84] as the news of the mass grave site that -[2729.84 --> 2730.42] was found -[2730.42 --> 2734.02] Lord give your love and strength to all -[2734.02 --> 2735.42] those who were wondering where their -[2735.42 --> 2737.52] missing children were for all these -[2737.52 --> 2738.42] many years -[2738.42 --> 2742.42] let there now be healing and closure for -[2742.42 --> 2743.42] these families -[2743.42 --> 2747.36] let the questions be answered and support -[2747.36 --> 2751.80] given to all father we ask you to be with -[2751.80 --> 2753.70] the Timmer family as you have taken -[2753.70 --> 2757.30] Martin home to be with you comfort his -[2757.30 --> 2760.98] wife and their children and also be with -[2760.98 --> 2764.64] Nellie boots Matthew and Adam as they -[2764.64 --> 2768.02] walk through this time of sadness give them -[2768.02 --> 2773.28] all a good measure of your spirit we thank -[2773.28 --> 2775.22] you for looking after John as he had a -[2775.22 --> 2778.72] heart attack last week Sunday thank you -[2778.72 --> 2780.78] for the care he received and that there -[2780.78 --> 2784.60] was not much damage Lord give John a -[2784.60 --> 2788.52] speedy recovery we also pray for Amy -[2788.52 --> 2793.40] Longer's mom who is who has COVID father -[2793.40 --> 2797.84] there too we ask for healing also as she is -[2797.84 --> 2802.24] in Bellingham Amy is unable to visit her give -[2802.24 --> 2806.94] support and care for the family Lord we -[2806.94 --> 2809.08] rejoice with Matt Woods and Nicole -[2809.08 --> 2812.92] Rook who were engaged this past week we -[2812.92 --> 2814.68] ask you to care and bless them in their -[2814.68 --> 2817.32] engagement and as they prepare for their -[2817.32 --> 2821.20] marriage father we thank you that we are -[2821.20 --> 2823.72] able to just witness the membership of -[2823.72 --> 2827.20] Clem Molenkamp father keep him and bless him -[2827.20 --> 2830.94] and watch over him in the days ahead and give -[2830.94 --> 2835.20] him everything he is in need of Lord we -[2835.20 --> 2837.88] thank you for the first responders and all -[2837.88 --> 2843.14] medical staff we ask for strength courage and -[2843.14 --> 2845.38] ability for them to do their jobs during this -[2845.38 --> 2848.66] pandemic with all the extra stress this -[2848.66 --> 2852.90] brings into their lives we are thankful that -[2852.90 --> 2855.30] people who had their surgeries delayed will be -[2855.30 --> 2859.40] able to have them rescheduled also be with the -[2859.40 --> 2861.50] governing bodies with the decisions that are -[2861.50 --> 2864.74] being made give them proper discernment in -[2864.74 --> 2870.88] the days ahead father be with all the senior -[2870.88 --> 2873.92] members here at Emmanuel give them what they -[2873.92 --> 2876.96] are in need of whether it is not having the -[2876.96 --> 2880.40] ability to do the things they so love to do or the -[2880.40 --> 2882.52] loneliness because their husband or wife is no -[2882.52 --> 2887.86] longer with them Lord keep them healthy and happy and -[2887.86 --> 2890.30] also bless their caregivers with the help they -[2890.30 --> 2892.80] provide -[2892.80 --> 2895.36] we pray for the schools as they are entering the -[2895.36 --> 2898.20] last month of the school year give all the -[2898.20 --> 2901.74] teachers students and pending graduates with what -[2901.74 --> 2904.48] they are in need of as they prepare for finals or have -[2904.48 --> 2907.32] already completed their courses so they can -[2907.32 --> 2910.26] they can make decisions for the next phase of their -[2910.26 --> 2910.66] lives -[2910.66 --> 2915.66] Lord you know what each one of us is dealing with in -[2915.66 --> 2920.10] our daily life and we ask for relief of anxiety -[2920.10 --> 2925.04] loneliness sickness depression for the lasting effects of -[2925.04 --> 2931.48] covid let answers be found and treatment be given father -[2931.48 --> 2936.82] care for us all we ask you to bless the efforts of seeds of -[2936.82 --> 2940.26] hope missionary who are helping children that are -[2940.26 --> 2944.70] abandoned orphaned homeless and suffering from AIDS around -[2944.70 --> 2948.86] the world let many children find the care and support they -[2948.86 --> 2953.14] need from these efforts we also ask for a blessing for the -[2953.14 --> 2956.10] offerings of today for the budget and mission work that is -[2956.10 --> 2961.88] being done help us to remember your words from Isaiah 41 13 -[2961.88 --> 2966.98] for I am the Lord your God your God who takes hold of your -[2966.98 --> 2973.52] right hand and says to you do not fear I will help you we ask -[2973.52 --> 2976.48] for a blessing over the message we will hear from Kevin from the -[2976.48 --> 2981.12] words of James 5 let our hearts and minds be willing to accept -[2981.12 --> 2986.86] these words we thank you for the opportunity to cast lots for new -[2986.86 --> 2991.36] elders and deacons today we thank you for the work of your spirit in -[2991.36 --> 2995.76] the hearts of so many who wish to serve be with those that are -[2995.76 --> 2998.94] chosen give them what they are in need of to serve your church -[2998.94 --> 3004.24] here also be with those that are not chosen this year let them -[3004.24 --> 3009.62] continue to have the desire to serve your church in the future we ask for a -[3009.62 --> 3016.62] blessing over the casting of lots Lord we offer a prayer of thanks for all -[3016.62 --> 3021.26] those whose terms are coming to an end we thank you for the abilities you gave -[3021.26 --> 3026.24] them to serve your church here and Emmanuel give each one a time of -[3026.24 --> 3032.98] refreshment and rest Lord we pray all these things through you through the death -[3032.98 --> 3040.38] resurrection and ascension of your son in his name we pray amen -[3062.98 --> 3068.98] the apostles had to choose a new leader from among them they cast lots and -[3068.98 --> 3074.12] Matthias was chosen relying on the providence of God we will now select new -[3074.12 --> 3081.46] office bearers for Langley Emmanuel by the same process as Proverbs 16 says the lot is -[3081.46 --> 3087.98] cast into the lap but it's very every decision is from the Lord -[3087.98 --> 3092.98] first we would like to give thanks to God for all the many people who agree to -[3092.98 --> 3096.98] let their name stand and in the nomination of the church look for the call of God to -[3096.98 --> 3102.56] serve so whether your name comes up today or not we are grateful for your -[3102.56 --> 3108.98] willingness to serve and we trust that God will provide another opportunity for you to do so -[3108.98 --> 3116.98] why don't we first pray for this process father God thank you for Emmanuel thank you for this this -[3116.98 --> 3124.98] great faithful group of believers that gather here and thank you for all the people who have let their -[3124.98 --> 3133.98] names stand for office this coming year that is such a grateful and faithful sign of your presence here -[3133.98 --> 3154.98] amongst us and so Lord now we pray for the process of drawing lots we pray that the men and women that you have in mind will be chosen and we also pray for those who are not chosen that they too might see that you calling them to do other things so we thank you for your presence here and we invite you in here as we draw the lots -[3154.98 --> 3169.98] so for the office of admin elder we are grateful to God for the work and service of Steve Brooke and Kevin Vischer so we will draw one lot to serve as an admin elder -[3169.98 --> 3176.98] that is Tim Sean -[3176.98 --> 3187.98] for the office of pastoral elder we are grateful to God for the work and service of Frank -[3187.98 --> 3194.98] Paul Hummelman and John Bill thought we will draw four lots to serve as pastoral elders -[3194.98 --> 3201.98] the first one is Dave Harris -[3201.98 --> 3209.98] second one is Ken Hogewoning -[3209.98 --> 3213.98] third one is Eric Hubertz -[3213.98 --> 3220.98] third one is Eric Hubertz -[3220.98 --> 3225.98] the fourth one is Daryl Wind -[3225.98 --> 3241.98] for the office of deacon we are grateful to God for the work and service of Pearl the hand Neil Rook and Jake Vultures we will draw three lots to serve as deacons draw three lots to serve as deacons -[3241.98 --> 3248.98] first is Mike Vorsma -[3248.98 --> 3256.98] second is Clem Molenkamp -[3256.98 --> 3261.98] and our third is Lena Chepkama -[3261.98 --> 3268.98] thank you -[3268.98 --> 3276.98] thank you -[3276.98 --> 3283.98] what a Sunday we are having today -[3283.98 --> 3298.98] to see people here in church so good that we can be joined at home hopefully you have tuned in and you're not still in your beds waiting for 15 minutes but this will come as a shock to you in a few moments if you haven't joined us yet which I don't even know why I'm talking to you but this will come as a shock to you in a few moments if you haven't joined us with our children I'm not sure that we could be joined at home hopefully -[3298.98 --> 3301.80] and you're not still in your beds waiting for 15 minutes, -[3302.00 --> 3304.30] but this will come as a shock to you in a few moments -[3304.30 --> 3305.46] if you haven't joined us yet, -[3305.54 --> 3307.74] which I don't even know why I'm talking to you then at this moment. -[3308.66 --> 3311.04] We have people here today. -[3311.20 --> 3311.72] That's great. -[3311.88 --> 3314.78] We have a couple services happening today as well, -[3314.86 --> 3315.48] which is awesome. -[3315.88 --> 3317.78] We just drew some new office bearers. -[3317.90 --> 3319.32] Clem has become a member. -[3319.96 --> 3321.94] Matt and Nicole are engaged. -[3322.26 --> 3325.08] We're celebrating communion as a community today -[3325.08 --> 3326.02] in just a little bit. -[3326.82 --> 3327.40] What a morning. -[3327.40 --> 3330.32] And now you're stuck with me for 20 minutes. -[3331.24 --> 3333.86] Hopefully you've all seen the video before the service -[3333.86 --> 3335.32] that Pastor Chris made this week, -[3335.40 --> 3336.72] the one with the little blue birdie. -[3337.20 --> 3340.36] Changes just sort of keep driving forward, don't they? -[3340.92 --> 3342.24] Speaking of birdies and driving, -[3342.62 --> 3343.38] great segue, Kevin, -[3343.66 --> 3348.42] I went golfing with Pastor Chris and Aaron Elkema a week or two ago. -[3349.24 --> 3350.46] It was a good round of golf. -[3350.80 --> 3351.56] It was a good round of golf. -[3351.56 --> 3352.76] I destroyed them both. -[3353.34 --> 3354.48] Just wrecked them. -[3354.54 --> 3355.24] It wasn't even close. -[3355.24 --> 3358.04] I can't remember by how many strokes I beat them by -[3358.04 --> 3360.28] because Pastor Chris wouldn't let me keep the scorecard -[3360.28 --> 3361.80] and frame it and put it up in his office. -[3362.08 --> 3364.00] So my memory will just have to do, I guess. -[3364.50 --> 3366.18] But there was a moment in that game -[3366.18 --> 3369.68] where Aaron's ball ended up in like a little gully -[3369.68 --> 3370.94] that was lined with rocks. -[3371.26 --> 3372.62] And he went to hit the ball out -[3372.62 --> 3374.34] and he hit a lip of the crater -[3374.34 --> 3376.04] and the ball went behind him. -[3376.08 --> 3377.70] I actually caught the whole thing on video -[3377.70 --> 3379.18] and I made a gif about it, -[3379.28 --> 3380.82] which I think we're going to watch right now. -[3380.82 --> 3383.46] Oh, poor Aaron. -[3383.54 --> 3383.96] Look at him. -[3385.72 --> 3388.20] There's a moment actually just after it hits the rock. -[3388.28 --> 3389.42] If you see, he kind of shudders. -[3389.54 --> 3390.92] He fears for his life for a moment. -[3393.26 --> 3397.18] Now, what followed that was some grumbling -[3397.18 --> 3399.80] and I'm pretty sure the golf club ended up -[3399.80 --> 3401.84] a few meters away from him as well. -[3401.84 --> 3405.82] But in fairness to Aaron, and I should say this, -[3405.88 --> 3407.94] he gave me full permission to talk about this today -[3407.94 --> 3408.90] and even show that. -[3410.22 --> 3412.00] And secondly, while there's video evidence -[3412.00 --> 3414.02] of that moment in Aaron's life, -[3414.12 --> 3415.36] of him having a poor go there, -[3415.64 --> 3417.94] he was not the only one having a rough time -[3417.94 --> 3419.72] or taking some rough hacks that day. -[3420.22 --> 3420.90] Right, Pastor Chris? -[3422.48 --> 3426.24] See, golf has a way of making -[3426.24 --> 3428.92] even the most level-headed of us -[3428.92 --> 3430.70] lose our patience, -[3430.70 --> 3433.00] lose our minds. -[3433.86 --> 3434.60] And so today, -[3434.86 --> 3437.34] we are going to be looking at this text in James. -[3437.46 --> 3438.46] It's the penultimate, -[3438.68 --> 3439.62] that's the word of the day, -[3439.74 --> 3441.80] penultimate text in our sermon series, -[3442.32 --> 3443.78] doers or hearers and doers. -[3443.86 --> 3445.56] And we're going to see this passage -[3445.56 --> 3448.28] is all about patience and perseverance. -[3448.58 --> 3449.36] So listen up, Aaron. -[3450.32 --> 3452.38] Whether you're here with us in person today, -[3452.48 --> 3453.86] and it's so great to have people here, -[3453.90 --> 3455.44] or you are at home watching, -[3455.80 --> 3457.66] I invite you now, please open up your Bibles, -[3457.66 --> 3460.30] turn with us to James chapter 5. -[3460.30 --> 3463.48] We're going to be reading verses 7 to 12 together. -[3463.62 --> 3464.54] So if you're at home, -[3464.66 --> 3465.34] snuggle in, -[3465.78 --> 3467.22] exercise your patience. -[3467.38 --> 3468.04] If you're here, -[3468.18 --> 3469.02] follow along -[3469.02 --> 3471.04] and read with me James 5, -[3471.40 --> 3473.02] verses 7 to 12, -[3473.08 --> 3473.82] where it says this, -[3473.82 --> 3487.20] Brothers and sisters, -[3487.20 --> 3501.30] Brothers and sisters, -[3501.30 --> 3503.90] as an example of patience in the face of suffering, -[3504.28 --> 3507.70] take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. -[3507.70 --> 3508.66] As you know, -[3508.72 --> 3511.50] we count as blessed those who have persevered. -[3512.02 --> 3513.74] You have heard Job's perseverance -[3513.74 --> 3516.48] and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. -[3517.14 --> 3520.40] The Lord is full of compassion and mercy. -[3521.88 --> 3522.84] Above all, -[3522.94 --> 3523.96] my brothers and sisters, -[3524.08 --> 3524.76] do not swear, -[3524.88 --> 3527.24] not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. -[3527.48 --> 3530.12] All you need to say is a simple yes or no. -[3530.68 --> 3531.02] Otherwise, -[3531.22 --> 3532.22] you will be condemned. -[3533.08 --> 3534.62] The word of the Lord. -[3534.62 --> 3534.94] Now, -[3537.02 --> 3539.08] a little reminder of where we're coming from -[3539.08 --> 3540.14] in this text today. -[3540.24 --> 3540.80] Two weeks ago, -[3540.92 --> 3542.32] Pastor Chris preached -[3542.32 --> 3546.44] on the first six verses of James 5, -[3546.84 --> 3548.50] where James condemns -[3548.50 --> 3550.86] the wealthy non-Christians -[3550.86 --> 3553.58] who are persecuting the readers of this letter. -[3554.72 --> 3556.24] James says the pursuit of money -[3556.24 --> 3558.24] will inevitably lead to their destruction. -[3558.96 --> 3560.08] Well, today's text, -[3560.52 --> 3561.98] James is responding to that. -[3561.98 --> 3564.88] He is once again speaking to the believers -[3564.88 --> 3566.54] in this church, -[3566.62 --> 3568.90] the believers who are reading this letter. -[3568.98 --> 3570.60] We see that right away in verse 7 -[3570.60 --> 3574.76] when James addresses them as brothers and sisters. -[3575.68 --> 3577.94] James here gives his response to the persecution -[3577.94 --> 3580.40] his readers may be experiencing -[3580.40 --> 3584.02] from the wealthy non-Christians in their community. -[3585.42 --> 3587.22] James tells his readers how to respond -[3587.22 --> 3588.62] in light of that persecution. -[3588.62 --> 3591.38] Notice his response. -[3593.22 --> 3595.20] Be patient then, brothers and sisters, -[3595.36 --> 3597.38] until the Lord's coming. -[3599.26 --> 3601.90] James' message to those experiencing injustice -[3601.90 --> 3603.68] is not one of revolution. -[3604.68 --> 3605.72] They're not to riot, -[3606.16 --> 3606.86] to revolt, -[3607.02 --> 3608.26] they're not to make a scene, -[3608.44 --> 3610.62] or even call out the injustices -[3610.62 --> 3612.54] or the persecutions that they may be facing. -[3612.54 --> 3617.06] Rather, James simply calls them -[3617.06 --> 3618.92] the patience. -[3620.44 --> 3621.78] No violence. -[3622.60 --> 3623.92] No outrage. -[3625.90 --> 3626.58] Patience. -[3628.68 --> 3629.32] Patience. -[3629.74 --> 3631.46] Mature endurance. -[3631.72 --> 3633.30] Patience is the inner quality -[3633.30 --> 3635.90] that produces the outer manifestation -[3635.90 --> 3637.60] of perseverance. -[3638.44 --> 3640.94] That's what James is calling his readers to. -[3640.94 --> 3644.64] He wants them to practice patience -[3644.64 --> 3646.46] and perseverance. -[3648.40 --> 3651.08] You'll notice James uses two people -[3651.08 --> 3653.44] as examples of patience and perseverance. -[3653.92 --> 3656.80] He calls us to be patient like the farmer -[3656.80 --> 3659.48] and perseverant like the prophet. -[3660.72 --> 3661.78] If you're taking notes today, -[3661.86 --> 3662.70] there's your two headings. -[3663.14 --> 3664.32] Patient like the farmer, -[3664.76 --> 3666.36] perseverant like the prophet. -[3666.72 --> 3667.60] We'll start with the farmer. -[3668.28 --> 3669.70] Farmers need to be patient -[3669.70 --> 3671.88] with things that are out of their control. -[3672.94 --> 3674.72] Farmers of the ancient Near East, -[3674.88 --> 3675.60] and truthfully, -[3675.76 --> 3677.56] of the current West Coast, -[3678.06 --> 3680.04] they rely heavily on the rain. -[3680.92 --> 3681.40] Back then, -[3681.44 --> 3682.56] they got rain twice a year. -[3682.64 --> 3683.56] They got it in August, -[3684.20 --> 3685.48] and they got it in the spring. -[3686.34 --> 3688.78] A farmer would plant their crop in August, -[3689.26 --> 3689.92] needing the rain -[3689.92 --> 3691.62] to sort of help the seeds take root, -[3691.62 --> 3692.82] and then wait for months, -[3693.86 --> 3696.02] patiently anticipating the spring rain -[3696.02 --> 3697.60] to reveal their crop. -[3698.88 --> 3701.12] Now, while the farmer waits for the spring rain, -[3701.18 --> 3701.48] of course, -[3701.56 --> 3702.54] there's work to be done. -[3702.82 --> 3703.76] They work eagerly. -[3703.92 --> 3704.88] They work patiently. -[3705.22 --> 3706.22] They work faithfully, -[3706.36 --> 3707.48] and they work diligently. -[3708.14 --> 3710.40] But while they work, -[3711.20 --> 3712.28] they wait. -[3713.96 --> 3716.18] They patiently wait -[3716.18 --> 3718.36] for the rain in the spring -[3718.36 --> 3720.48] to come and grow their crops. -[3720.48 --> 3723.34] Now, the readers of this letter -[3723.34 --> 3725.04] would have taken note of this imagery. -[3725.16 --> 3726.62] They would have no doubt remembered -[3726.62 --> 3728.26] the promises of God -[3728.26 --> 3729.88] found in Deuteronomy 11, -[3730.22 --> 3731.32] where it says, -[3732.40 --> 3734.32] If you faithfully obey -[3734.32 --> 3736.40] the commands I am giving you today, -[3736.74 --> 3738.24] to love the Lord your God -[3738.24 --> 3739.82] and to serve him with all your heart -[3739.82 --> 3741.06] and with all your soul, -[3741.96 --> 3744.26] then I will send rain on your land -[3744.26 --> 3744.94] in its season, -[3745.34 --> 3747.98] both autumn and spring rains, -[3748.12 --> 3750.06] so that you may gather in your grain, -[3750.06 --> 3751.04] new wine, -[3751.48 --> 3752.24] and olive oil. -[3754.10 --> 3756.28] We are called to that same obedience, -[3756.52 --> 3757.30] to love the Lord -[3757.30 --> 3759.00] and to serve him with all our hearts. -[3759.36 --> 3760.64] James uses the farmer -[3760.64 --> 3762.20] as an example for us all -[3762.20 --> 3764.38] to be patient in times -[3764.38 --> 3765.82] that we cannot control. -[3767.04 --> 3768.60] The farmer can't control the rain. -[3769.94 --> 3771.92] We can't control our circumstances -[3771.92 --> 3772.58] all the time. -[3773.82 --> 3775.34] But the calling is the same, -[3775.42 --> 3776.92] to love and serve the Lord -[3776.92 --> 3778.96] and to do so patiently -[3778.96 --> 3780.92] in good times -[3780.92 --> 3782.50] and in rough times, -[3782.58 --> 3784.54] while persecuted or not, -[3784.86 --> 3786.72] trusting in the Lord's provision -[3786.72 --> 3788.44] for all our lives. -[3788.66 --> 3790.24] His timing is not our timing. -[3791.82 --> 3793.24] But we are to be patient -[3793.24 --> 3796.16] in times we cannot control. -[3797.94 --> 3799.30] So when the world around us -[3799.30 --> 3800.32] is out of control, -[3801.32 --> 3802.66] how do we respond? -[3802.66 --> 3805.34] Do we respond with patience? -[3806.72 --> 3807.18] This year, -[3807.40 --> 3808.46] this past year is like -[3808.46 --> 3810.30] the perfect example of this. -[3811.18 --> 3812.30] During this pandemic, -[3813.32 --> 3815.54] when decisions have been made for you, -[3815.68 --> 3817.88] when restrictions have been put in place -[3817.88 --> 3819.34] that you had no control over, -[3819.56 --> 3821.94] when doors of buildings were closed, -[3822.10 --> 3824.20] when businesses slowed down, -[3824.50 --> 3826.98] when traveling was banned, -[3827.58 --> 3830.64] when graduations were canceled, -[3830.64 --> 3836.54] everything you once had in your hands -[3836.54 --> 3838.24] started slipping through your fingertips. -[3839.68 --> 3840.96] How did you respond? -[3842.74 --> 3843.98] How did you respond -[3843.98 --> 3845.60] when your life got interrupted? -[3845.94 --> 3847.20] Were you patient, -[3847.88 --> 3849.02] knowing that God, -[3849.40 --> 3850.26] as always, -[3850.60 --> 3851.42] was in control? -[3853.48 --> 3854.48] Or did you grumble? -[3854.76 --> 3856.86] Did you fight for that control back? -[3856.86 --> 3860.34] It's so good we're all here today, -[3860.42 --> 3861.86] but the pandemic's not over yet. -[3862.74 --> 3864.18] Are we being patient -[3864.18 --> 3865.62] in the midst of it? -[3867.44 --> 3869.02] James doubles down on his point. -[3869.50 --> 3870.76] After talking about the farmer -[3870.76 --> 3871.46] in verse 7 -[3871.46 --> 3873.16] and calling us to be patient -[3873.16 --> 3874.30] in verse 8, -[3875.22 --> 3876.24] verse 9 says this, -[3876.50 --> 3878.76] do not grumble against one another, -[3878.88 --> 3879.70] brothers and sisters, -[3880.06 --> 3881.16] or you will be judged. -[3881.16 --> 3884.82] We're to practice patience -[3884.82 --> 3887.14] by bearing our afflictions -[3887.14 --> 3889.12] without grumbling. -[3889.90 --> 3891.20] When we find ourselves -[3891.20 --> 3892.28] in difficult situations -[3892.28 --> 3893.40] where our lives -[3893.40 --> 3894.88] may be spinning out of control, -[3895.14 --> 3897.02] it becomes very easy for us -[3897.02 --> 3898.50] to grumble, doesn't it? -[3899.08 --> 3901.38] We find like-minded people -[3901.38 --> 3902.58] and we complain -[3902.58 --> 3903.78] about what we're going through, -[3904.10 --> 3905.44] the injustices we feel -[3905.44 --> 3906.72] that are happening against us, -[3906.78 --> 3908.16] or we complain about others -[3908.16 --> 3909.84] who maybe do not share -[3909.84 --> 3910.84] the same perspectives -[3910.84 --> 3911.74] that we have. -[3913.62 --> 3914.70] But James says, -[3914.86 --> 3916.20] do not grumble -[3916.20 --> 3917.42] against one another. -[3919.02 --> 3920.40] Now, this is not code. -[3920.70 --> 3921.82] This is not even subtle. -[3922.48 --> 3923.72] This is just to the point. -[3924.10 --> 3925.74] Do not grumble -[3925.74 --> 3927.04] against one another. -[3929.12 --> 3929.74] So again, -[3929.80 --> 3930.88] using our current context -[3930.88 --> 3931.72] to highlight this, -[3932.80 --> 3933.40] do we grumble? -[3933.64 --> 3934.38] Are we grumbling -[3934.38 --> 3935.58] against one another? -[3935.80 --> 3936.84] Are you complaining -[3936.84 --> 3937.56] to your friends -[3937.56 --> 3938.42] about the situation -[3938.42 --> 3939.40] you find yourselves in? -[3939.40 --> 3940.36] Are we grumbling -[3940.36 --> 3941.84] about having to wear masks -[3941.84 --> 3943.04] or about others -[3943.04 --> 3944.24] who aren't wearing masks? -[3944.44 --> 3945.10] Are you grumbling -[3945.10 --> 3945.64] about people -[3945.64 --> 3947.08] who aren't getting vaccined? -[3947.22 --> 3947.82] Or are you grumbling -[3947.82 --> 3948.32] about people -[3948.32 --> 3949.28] who already have gotten -[3949.28 --> 3950.04] that vaccine? -[3950.46 --> 3951.56] Are we grumbling -[3951.56 --> 3952.68] about people -[3952.68 --> 3953.96] on one side of the spectrum -[3953.96 --> 3954.88] when we find ourselves -[3954.88 --> 3955.54] on the other side -[3955.54 --> 3956.12] of that spectrum? -[3958.06 --> 3958.80] There's room -[3958.80 --> 3959.92] for discussion, sure. -[3960.08 --> 3960.98] There's lots of room -[3960.98 --> 3961.90] even for disagreement. -[3963.58 --> 3965.44] But there's no room -[3965.44 --> 3966.34] for grumbling. -[3966.34 --> 3968.58] Do not grumble -[3968.58 --> 3970.44] against one another. -[3972.58 --> 3974.12] Now imagine with me this. -[3974.48 --> 3975.20] Imagine if instead -[3975.20 --> 3975.68] of grumbling, -[3975.94 --> 3977.30] we used this time, -[3977.56 --> 3978.28] this pandemic -[3978.28 --> 3979.58] that we find ourselves in, -[3979.74 --> 3980.42] and we spoke -[3980.42 --> 3981.52] not of the restrictions -[3981.52 --> 3982.96] or the policies in place -[3982.96 --> 3984.02] or vaccinations -[3984.02 --> 3984.58] or masks -[3984.58 --> 3985.28] or about any of that, -[3985.38 --> 3986.82] but if we spoke instead -[3986.82 --> 3988.74] about God's goodness -[3988.74 --> 3990.42] in our lives. -[3990.42 --> 3992.12] What if instead -[3992.12 --> 3993.38] of grumbling -[3993.38 --> 3993.94] about people -[3993.94 --> 3994.66] who think differently -[3994.66 --> 3995.20] than you do, -[3995.38 --> 3996.38] we celebrated -[3996.38 --> 3997.32] the work -[3997.32 --> 3998.62] that God is doing -[3998.62 --> 3999.84] in our lives, -[3999.98 --> 4000.74] in the lives -[4000.74 --> 4001.42] of our friends, -[4001.78 --> 4002.68] in the lives -[4002.68 --> 4003.62] of the community -[4003.62 --> 4005.06] that you find yourself in. -[4006.98 --> 4008.38] We are to be patient -[4008.38 --> 4010.22] and to speak in truth -[4010.22 --> 4011.34] about the goodness -[4011.34 --> 4012.68] of God, -[4012.88 --> 4013.76] the greatness -[4013.76 --> 4015.08] of His mercy, -[4015.32 --> 4015.92] the wonder -[4015.92 --> 4016.80] of His rule -[4016.80 --> 4017.94] in our lives -[4017.94 --> 4019.12] no matter what context -[4019.12 --> 4020.18] we find ourselves in. -[4021.94 --> 4023.74] Times of struggle -[4023.74 --> 4025.86] are golden opportunities -[4025.86 --> 4027.58] for us to speak -[4027.58 --> 4029.62] to the glory of God. -[4031.82 --> 4033.06] What if rather than -[4033.06 --> 4035.38] grumbling against one another, -[4036.02 --> 4038.30] we praised Him -[4038.30 --> 4040.76] by encouraging one another? -[4041.30 --> 4042.10] What a difference -[4042.10 --> 4043.16] that would make. -[4044.70 --> 4046.04] The end of this pandemic -[4046.04 --> 4046.68] is close, -[4046.80 --> 4047.38] and so perhaps -[4047.38 --> 4048.26] it's a little easier -[4048.26 --> 4048.96] for us now -[4048.96 --> 4049.94] to be patient -[4049.94 --> 4050.72] in the midst -[4050.72 --> 4051.70] of these restrictions -[4051.70 --> 4053.08] because we know -[4053.08 --> 4054.54] that the end -[4054.54 --> 4055.58] of this is near. -[4055.64 --> 4056.08] When the end -[4056.08 --> 4056.96] of something is coming, -[4057.04 --> 4057.82] it becomes a little bit -[4057.82 --> 4058.64] easier for us -[4058.64 --> 4059.74] to be patient, -[4060.10 --> 4060.82] to persevere, -[4060.98 --> 4061.58] and this too -[4061.58 --> 4062.46] is James' point. -[4062.88 --> 4063.88] We're to be patient, -[4064.30 --> 4065.32] as verse 8 says, -[4065.42 --> 4066.20] because the coming -[4066.20 --> 4067.34] of the Lord -[4067.34 --> 4068.20] is at hand. -[4070.62 --> 4071.06] Now, -[4071.10 --> 4071.48] if you're part -[4071.48 --> 4071.98] of a church, -[4072.30 --> 4073.14] part of this church -[4073.14 --> 4074.22] or another church perhaps, -[4074.36 --> 4075.20] if you're a believer -[4075.20 --> 4076.38] in Christ, -[4076.52 --> 4077.48] you know that Jesus -[4077.48 --> 4078.48] came. -[4079.02 --> 4079.94] You know He lived, -[4080.44 --> 4081.22] you know He died -[4081.22 --> 4082.34] and He rose again. -[4082.66 --> 4083.30] Jesus lived -[4083.30 --> 4083.92] and He fulfilled -[4083.92 --> 4084.60] His ministry -[4084.60 --> 4085.18] here on earth. -[4085.18 --> 4086.34] But brothers and sisters, -[4086.52 --> 4088.26] we also know -[4088.26 --> 4089.82] that He will come again. -[4090.86 --> 4092.30] His kingdom has come, -[4092.40 --> 4093.14] but His kingdom -[4093.14 --> 4093.70] is coming. -[4094.84 --> 4095.82] We await -[4095.82 --> 4097.62] His inevitable return, -[4097.62 --> 4099.42] and we know -[4099.42 --> 4100.48] the end -[4100.48 --> 4101.50] is near. -[4102.46 --> 4103.08] The end of this -[4103.08 --> 4104.02] pandemic is near, -[4104.14 --> 4104.32] sure, -[4104.52 --> 4105.38] and we can celebrate -[4105.38 --> 4106.30] that because that's -[4106.30 --> 4106.66] wonderful, -[4106.96 --> 4108.08] but how much greater -[4108.08 --> 4109.10] is the knowledge -[4109.10 --> 4109.72] that Jesus -[4109.72 --> 4111.44] is coming again -[4111.44 --> 4112.78] to remove all sin, -[4113.10 --> 4113.78] all disease, -[4114.00 --> 4114.86] all pandemic -[4114.86 --> 4116.64] for all of time? -[4117.62 --> 4118.56] That's what James -[4118.56 --> 4119.54] wants us to hear today. -[4119.84 --> 4120.32] The coming -[4120.32 --> 4121.24] of the Lord -[4121.24 --> 4122.22] is at hand. -[4122.58 --> 4123.24] Be patient. -[4124.32 --> 4125.50] Like a good book -[4125.50 --> 4126.38] that we've read -[4126.38 --> 4127.62] over and over again, -[4128.04 --> 4129.06] knowing the end -[4129.06 --> 4130.80] just makes that book -[4130.80 --> 4131.48] so much better. -[4132.18 --> 4132.82] We know -[4132.82 --> 4134.50] the end of the story. -[4136.02 --> 4137.16] Christ is coming back. -[4137.54 --> 4138.56] He will reign -[4138.56 --> 4139.50] in the new earth -[4139.50 --> 4140.42] forever. -[4140.84 --> 4141.26] There will be -[4141.26 --> 4142.22] no more sorrow, -[4142.64 --> 4143.72] no more pain, -[4143.98 --> 4145.16] no more disease -[4145.16 --> 4146.02] or pandemics -[4146.02 --> 4146.54] or grief, -[4146.80 --> 4148.28] no more anxiety -[4148.28 --> 4149.60] or depression -[4149.60 --> 4150.84] or sadness. -[4151.34 --> 4152.32] Poverty will end. -[4152.94 --> 4154.38] Injustice will end. -[4154.78 --> 4156.16] Death will end. -[4156.42 --> 4156.66] Instead, -[4156.78 --> 4157.42] there will be comfort. -[4158.24 --> 4159.14] There will be joy. -[4159.14 --> 4160.78] There will be health -[4160.78 --> 4161.70] and freedom -[4161.70 --> 4162.62] and peace. -[4162.94 --> 4163.90] We will be confident -[4163.90 --> 4164.82] in our God -[4164.82 --> 4165.76] and happy -[4165.76 --> 4167.18] and satisfied. -[4167.84 --> 4169.10] Abundance will reign. -[4169.56 --> 4170.30] Justice will be -[4170.30 --> 4171.06] all we know -[4171.06 --> 4172.08] and life -[4172.08 --> 4173.52] will be all -[4173.52 --> 4174.48] there is. -[4175.78 --> 4177.18] We will unite -[4177.18 --> 4178.12] with all of those -[4178.12 --> 4179.00] that call Christ -[4179.00 --> 4179.78] as Lord -[4179.78 --> 4180.66] and live together -[4180.66 --> 4182.20] in one perfect, -[4182.62 --> 4184.06] beautiful body, -[4184.40 --> 4185.32] free of pain -[4185.32 --> 4186.36] and sin -[4186.36 --> 4187.28] and death -[4187.28 --> 4188.14] forever, -[4188.46 --> 4189.18] free to run -[4189.18 --> 4190.00] and play -[4190.00 --> 4190.66] and laugh -[4190.66 --> 4191.50] and sing -[4191.50 --> 4192.76] and dance -[4192.76 --> 4193.40] and fish -[4193.40 --> 4194.04] and golf -[4194.04 --> 4194.68] and swim -[4194.68 --> 4195.64] and rest -[4195.64 --> 4196.80] and do all -[4196.80 --> 4197.40] of the things -[4197.40 --> 4198.82] we love to do -[4198.82 --> 4201.18] all in the presence -[4201.18 --> 4202.24] of the one -[4202.24 --> 4203.88] true God -[4203.88 --> 4205.74] who we will live with -[4205.74 --> 4206.74] and worship -[4206.74 --> 4208.82] and be in awe of -[4208.82 --> 4209.86] forever. -[4209.86 --> 4210.00] forever. -[4212.82 --> 4213.84] We know -[4213.84 --> 4214.70] how our story -[4214.70 --> 4215.36] ends. -[4216.54 --> 4217.58] The spring rains -[4217.58 --> 4218.28] are coming. -[4219.62 --> 4220.88] Christ is coming. -[4222.24 --> 4223.06] We long -[4223.06 --> 4223.82] for that day. -[4225.72 --> 4227.10] But while we long -[4227.10 --> 4227.94] for that day, -[4228.62 --> 4230.02] we are called -[4230.02 --> 4231.80] to be patient. -[4231.80 --> 4234.38] to work, -[4234.60 --> 4235.54] to be diligent, -[4235.68 --> 4236.40] to be faithful, -[4237.44 --> 4239.08] but to be patient -[4239.08 --> 4241.78] and not grumble, -[4242.24 --> 4243.14] but rejoice -[4243.14 --> 4244.80] in the glory -[4244.80 --> 4245.72] of God's -[4245.72 --> 4246.20] kingdom -[4246.20 --> 4247.06] coming. -[4249.96 --> 4250.58] So while James -[4250.58 --> 4251.82] calls us to be patient -[4251.82 --> 4252.60] like the farmer, -[4252.68 --> 4253.62] he also calls us -[4253.62 --> 4254.58] to persevere -[4254.58 --> 4255.78] like the prophet. -[4256.06 --> 4256.78] The Old Testament -[4256.78 --> 4257.92] prophets experienced -[4257.92 --> 4259.34] tremendous hardships. -[4259.58 --> 4260.40] Hardships we can't -[4260.40 --> 4261.26] even fully grasp. -[4261.26 --> 4262.54] And they experienced -[4262.54 --> 4263.24] these hardships -[4263.24 --> 4264.32] all in the name -[4264.32 --> 4265.24] of the Lord. -[4266.20 --> 4267.16] No one exemplifies -[4267.16 --> 4267.70] this perhaps -[4267.70 --> 4268.60] more than Jeremiah -[4268.60 --> 4269.66] who is actually -[4269.66 --> 4270.28] known as the -[4270.28 --> 4271.60] weeping prophet -[4271.60 --> 4272.30] because he had -[4272.30 --> 4273.02] to persevere -[4273.02 --> 4274.36] so much. -[4274.84 --> 4275.36] Jeremiah was -[4275.36 --> 4276.12] severely beaten. -[4276.48 --> 4277.08] He was put in -[4277.08 --> 4278.18] those torture stocks -[4278.18 --> 4279.46] outside of a city gate. -[4279.82 --> 4280.40] He was thrown -[4280.40 --> 4281.22] into a well. -[4281.74 --> 4282.50] He was eventually -[4282.50 --> 4284.06] stoned to death. -[4285.24 --> 4286.14] If you read his book -[4286.14 --> 4286.82] in the Bible, -[4286.94 --> 4287.12] I mean, -[4287.14 --> 4288.24] it's 52 chapters. -[4288.38 --> 4289.14] It's a long book, -[4289.30 --> 4289.82] but that's the point. -[4289.82 --> 4291.32] It's 52 chapters -[4291.32 --> 4292.22] of Jeremiah -[4292.22 --> 4293.26] suffering -[4293.26 --> 4295.64] for the glory -[4295.64 --> 4296.04] of God. -[4297.32 --> 4297.92] To say Jeremiah -[4297.92 --> 4298.84] lived a hard life -[4298.84 --> 4299.70] does a disservice -[4299.70 --> 4300.36] to the life -[4300.36 --> 4301.00] that he lived -[4301.00 --> 4301.78] and the trials -[4301.78 --> 4302.46] and tribulations -[4302.46 --> 4303.08] that he faced -[4303.08 --> 4303.52] every day. -[4304.68 --> 4305.52] James also -[4305.52 --> 4307.24] lists Job. -[4308.40 --> 4309.20] Job who -[4309.20 --> 4310.28] lost everything. -[4311.84 --> 4312.90] Everything he owned, -[4313.02 --> 4313.60] his family, -[4313.78 --> 4314.18] his health. -[4314.18 --> 4317.82] And yet he remained -[4317.82 --> 4318.64] faithful to God. -[4318.82 --> 4319.46] He was blessed -[4319.46 --> 4320.86] and he was blessed -[4320.86 --> 4321.80] for his faithfulness. -[4323.14 --> 4323.96] Jeremiah and Job, -[4324.04 --> 4324.52] they suffered, -[4324.66 --> 4325.90] but they persevered. -[4326.30 --> 4327.16] They persevered -[4327.16 --> 4328.02] because they too -[4328.02 --> 4328.98] knew the end -[4328.98 --> 4329.56] of the story. -[4329.92 --> 4330.70] Job knew God -[4330.70 --> 4331.30] was faithful. -[4332.10 --> 4332.96] Jeremiah knew -[4332.96 --> 4334.32] that a Messiah -[4334.32 --> 4335.32] was coming. -[4336.40 --> 4337.08] To him, -[4337.14 --> 4337.64] the Messiah -[4337.64 --> 4338.62] was coming -[4338.62 --> 4339.78] to restore his people. -[4339.94 --> 4340.60] But we know -[4340.60 --> 4341.12] even better. -[4341.96 --> 4342.46] We know that -[4342.46 --> 4342.92] the Messiah -[4342.92 --> 4343.62] has come. -[4344.66 --> 4345.12] And not just -[4345.12 --> 4345.94] to restore his people, -[4346.02 --> 4347.18] but to restore everything. -[4348.94 --> 4349.90] Jesus Christ, -[4350.06 --> 4350.78] he lived -[4350.78 --> 4351.90] a perfect life -[4351.90 --> 4352.58] which we all -[4352.58 --> 4353.74] fall short of living. -[4354.06 --> 4354.86] And then he died -[4354.86 --> 4355.32] a death -[4355.32 --> 4355.96] that you -[4355.96 --> 4356.64] and that I -[4356.64 --> 4357.24] and that all -[4357.24 --> 4357.86] who sinned -[4357.86 --> 4359.30] deserve to die. -[4359.64 --> 4360.68] But he took our place -[4360.68 --> 4361.92] and he atoned -[4361.92 --> 4362.70] for our sin -[4362.70 --> 4363.92] and he rose again -[4363.92 --> 4364.52] from the grave -[4364.52 --> 4365.76] victorious over sin -[4365.76 --> 4366.82] and over death -[4366.82 --> 4368.00] and now he reigns -[4368.00 --> 4368.76] at the right hand -[4368.76 --> 4369.66] of God the Father -[4369.66 --> 4370.18] Almighty. -[4370.36 --> 4370.86] His kingdom -[4370.86 --> 4371.74] has come -[4371.74 --> 4372.78] and we wait -[4372.78 --> 4373.54] patiently -[4373.54 --> 4374.86] for his kingdom's -[4374.86 --> 4375.54] final coming. -[4376.36 --> 4376.88] The end -[4376.88 --> 4377.56] is near. -[4378.74 --> 4379.60] But we must -[4379.60 --> 4380.32] persevere -[4380.32 --> 4381.34] in this life -[4381.34 --> 4382.02] as we wait -[4382.02 --> 4382.58] patiently, -[4383.04 --> 4383.70] rumble free -[4383.70 --> 4384.68] for his coming. -[4387.48 --> 4388.12] Now, -[4388.36 --> 4389.36] this message -[4389.36 --> 4390.48] is not meant -[4390.48 --> 4391.16] to belittle -[4391.16 --> 4391.90] the context -[4391.90 --> 4393.16] that you find yourself in. -[4394.12 --> 4395.66] Life is hard. -[4395.98 --> 4397.14] People suffer. -[4397.26 --> 4398.00] You might be watching -[4398.00 --> 4398.62] right now -[4398.62 --> 4399.72] and are going through -[4399.72 --> 4400.54] a tremendously -[4400.54 --> 4401.56] difficult time. -[4402.22 --> 4403.38] And I do not mean -[4403.38 --> 4404.20] to minimize -[4404.20 --> 4405.00] your struggles -[4405.00 --> 4406.12] or to undermine -[4406.12 --> 4406.78] your pain. -[4408.56 --> 4409.16] Patience -[4409.16 --> 4410.28] and perseverance -[4410.28 --> 4411.30] in the midst -[4411.30 --> 4412.00] of sorrow -[4412.00 --> 4413.22] or grief -[4413.22 --> 4414.40] or pain -[4414.40 --> 4415.20] or anxiety -[4415.20 --> 4416.30] is not just hard, -[4416.38 --> 4417.16] it can be crippling. -[4417.16 --> 4420.50] And yet, -[4420.60 --> 4421.54] James mentions -[4421.54 --> 4422.32] these prophets -[4422.32 --> 4424.08] to highlight -[4424.08 --> 4425.82] that persevering -[4425.82 --> 4427.32] is possible. -[4430.42 --> 4430.82] Prophets -[4430.82 --> 4431.40] have suffered -[4431.40 --> 4432.16] and responded -[4432.16 --> 4432.88] to suffering -[4432.88 --> 4434.06] faithfully before -[4434.06 --> 4434.92] with the right -[4434.92 --> 4435.50] perspective. -[4435.86 --> 4436.68] Our sinful nature -[4436.68 --> 4437.96] sometimes leads us -[4437.96 --> 4438.48] to assume -[4438.48 --> 4439.64] that we are the first -[4439.64 --> 4441.08] to ever truly -[4441.08 --> 4441.84] experience -[4441.84 --> 4442.62] what we are going -[4442.62 --> 4442.98] for -[4442.98 --> 4443.92] or what we are -[4443.92 --> 4444.42] going through. -[4444.42 --> 4445.04] But James -[4445.04 --> 4445.74] wants his readers -[4445.74 --> 4446.30] to know -[4446.30 --> 4447.96] and he wants -[4447.96 --> 4448.34] his readers -[4448.34 --> 4449.22] to be very clear -[4449.22 --> 4449.92] that while -[4449.92 --> 4451.34] what they are facing -[4451.34 --> 4454.12] is by no means easy, -[4454.94 --> 4456.74] it's also not new. -[4458.08 --> 4460.02] We fall on hard times. -[4461.64 --> 4463.08] We will find ourselves -[4463.08 --> 4463.86] in situations -[4463.86 --> 4464.62] and contexts -[4464.62 --> 4465.30] that are difficult. -[4466.38 --> 4467.54] But the prophets -[4467.54 --> 4468.34] persevered -[4468.34 --> 4470.30] and we can too. -[4470.40 --> 4471.14] With our eyes -[4471.14 --> 4471.88] on the Lord -[4471.88 --> 4473.18] and with the Spirit's help, -[4473.18 --> 4474.76] we can persevere. -[4475.66 --> 4476.76] We have examples -[4476.76 --> 4477.76] of this in our lives. -[4477.84 --> 4478.58] All of us do. -[4478.88 --> 4479.72] Examples beyond -[4479.72 --> 4480.22] the prophets -[4480.22 --> 4480.98] of the Old Testament. -[4481.60 --> 4482.26] For me personally, -[4482.32 --> 4483.14] I think of my grandma. -[4484.34 --> 4485.52] My grandma was widowed -[4485.52 --> 4486.90] three times in her life. -[4487.94 --> 4488.54] She was widowed -[4488.54 --> 4489.40] in her 30s -[4489.40 --> 4489.98] when she had -[4489.98 --> 4491.08] four young daughters -[4491.08 --> 4491.62] in the house. -[4492.56 --> 4493.44] She got remarried -[4493.44 --> 4494.34] and was widowed -[4494.34 --> 4496.16] not 12 years later -[4496.16 --> 4497.22] with now five -[4497.22 --> 4498.10] teenage daughters -[4498.10 --> 4498.76] in the house. -[4499.90 --> 4500.92] She remarried again, -[4501.20 --> 4502.22] moved back to Holland, -[4502.22 --> 4505.56] came back to Canada -[4505.56 --> 4506.38] with her new husband, -[4507.06 --> 4508.22] and was widowed -[4508.22 --> 4509.06] a third time, -[4509.14 --> 4510.12] this time later in life -[4510.12 --> 4510.80] in her 80s. -[4510.84 --> 4511.44] She immigrated -[4511.44 --> 4512.08] from Holland -[4512.08 --> 4513.30] to Canada twice -[4513.30 --> 4514.14] in her life, -[4514.44 --> 4515.40] moved more than anyone -[4515.40 --> 4515.96] should have, -[4516.00 --> 4516.78] and not only did she -[4516.78 --> 4518.24] survive three husbands, -[4518.74 --> 4519.64] she also survived -[4519.64 --> 4520.38] her one daughter -[4520.38 --> 4521.36] who passed away young -[4521.36 --> 4522.74] and several grandkids. -[4524.04 --> 4525.26] God finally called her -[4525.26 --> 4526.98] to her eternal home -[4526.98 --> 4528.48] about 10 years ago. -[4528.48 --> 4530.76] but she persevered. -[4531.28 --> 4532.10] Her faith legacy -[4532.10 --> 4534.36] lives on in me, -[4534.50 --> 4535.30] in our family, -[4535.30 --> 4536.40] and she was as good -[4536.40 --> 4536.98] of an example -[4536.98 --> 4537.58] as patience -[4537.58 --> 4538.38] and perseverance -[4538.38 --> 4539.44] that I have ever seen. -[4540.44 --> 4542.62] Our family is so much closer, -[4543.16 --> 4545.38] and we know of God's love -[4545.38 --> 4546.18] so much more -[4546.18 --> 4548.28] because of her perseverance -[4548.28 --> 4549.58] in the trials -[4549.58 --> 4550.72] of this life. -[4550.72 --> 4553.66] More recently, -[4553.76 --> 4554.60] I remember Pastor Bill -[4554.60 --> 4555.26] who was diagnosed -[4555.26 --> 4555.90] with cancer, -[4556.02 --> 4556.28] of course, -[4556.32 --> 4557.02] when he was still -[4557.02 --> 4558.46] the pastor of this church -[4558.46 --> 4559.36] over 10 years ago. -[4560.62 --> 4561.82] As he persevered -[4561.82 --> 4563.10] through his cancer diagnosis -[4563.10 --> 4563.84] that made his health -[4563.84 --> 4565.06] decline so rapidly, -[4566.00 --> 4566.90] he praised God -[4566.90 --> 4567.66] in the midst of it. -[4568.34 --> 4569.98] He prayed for his church. -[4570.08 --> 4570.98] He loved his church. -[4571.22 --> 4572.26] He blessed and prayed -[4572.26 --> 4573.06] for those who went -[4573.06 --> 4573.78] to visit him -[4573.78 --> 4575.42] to pray and bless him. -[4575.42 --> 4577.94] And he passed away -[4577.94 --> 4579.08] knowing with certainty -[4579.08 --> 4581.30] that the end of his story -[4581.30 --> 4581.92] was going to be -[4581.92 --> 4583.16] a glorious and eternal one. -[4584.80 --> 4586.12] And even most recently, -[4586.26 --> 4586.76] we all remember -[4586.76 --> 4587.52] Dave Alexander -[4587.52 --> 4589.22] who walked alongside -[4589.22 --> 4589.94] Pastor Bill -[4589.94 --> 4591.02] 10 years ago -[4591.02 --> 4591.94] before he had been, -[4592.14 --> 4593.16] before Dave was diagnosed -[4593.16 --> 4593.84] with ALS. -[4594.44 --> 4595.14] As he journeyed -[4595.14 --> 4596.50] through his ALS diagnosis, -[4597.10 --> 4597.92] Dave told me regularly -[4597.92 --> 4598.60] that he wanted -[4598.60 --> 4599.62] to be like Bill -[4599.62 --> 4601.42] and persevere -[4601.42 --> 4602.18] in his suffering -[4602.18 --> 4603.54] too to be an example -[4603.54 --> 4604.36] of God's glory -[4604.36 --> 4605.10] to his community. -[4606.40 --> 4607.22] He also blessed -[4607.22 --> 4607.84] and he prayed -[4607.84 --> 4608.46] for those -[4608.46 --> 4609.88] who came to visit him. -[4609.94 --> 4610.82] And while his body -[4610.82 --> 4611.44] failed him, -[4611.90 --> 4612.94] he eventually passed. -[4613.52 --> 4614.56] So many were brought -[4614.56 --> 4615.40] closer to Christ -[4615.40 --> 4617.12] because of Dave's perseverance. -[4619.34 --> 4620.26] Along with these, -[4620.34 --> 4621.26] you all have others. -[4621.38 --> 4622.36] You have your own examples -[4622.36 --> 4622.82] of people -[4622.82 --> 4623.94] who have persevered -[4623.94 --> 4624.54] through the faith, -[4625.28 --> 4626.78] persevered through trials -[4626.78 --> 4627.56] and tribulations, -[4628.04 --> 4628.76] but persevered -[4628.76 --> 4629.82] for the glory of God. -[4630.88 --> 4632.24] Like Job and Jeremiah -[4632.24 --> 4632.82] and the prophets, -[4632.96 --> 4633.88] they all persevered. -[4634.00 --> 4634.82] As James says -[4634.82 --> 4635.54] in our text today, -[4635.84 --> 4636.84] we know that they -[4636.84 --> 4637.48] are blessed -[4637.48 --> 4639.12] for they remain -[4639.12 --> 4640.38] dead fast. -[4642.28 --> 4642.92] And so like those -[4642.92 --> 4643.80] who have gone before us, -[4643.86 --> 4644.58] we are called -[4644.58 --> 4646.02] to patience -[4646.02 --> 4647.18] and perseverance. -[4647.18 --> 4650.54] you know what you're going through. -[4653.48 --> 4654.56] You know what may be -[4654.56 --> 4655.38] causing you grief. -[4655.52 --> 4656.66] You know what's causing you -[4656.66 --> 4657.68] trials. -[4658.44 --> 4659.40] You may know -[4659.40 --> 4660.52] what's causing you -[4660.52 --> 4662.42] to feel crippled. -[4663.16 --> 4664.82] But may you also know -[4664.82 --> 4666.02] the end of this story. -[4667.16 --> 4668.30] May you know -[4668.30 --> 4669.50] of Christ's victory -[4669.50 --> 4670.36] in his life, -[4670.64 --> 4670.88] death, -[4671.16 --> 4671.76] and resurrection. -[4672.24 --> 4673.04] May you know -[4673.04 --> 4673.90] that the king -[4673.90 --> 4674.66] has come -[4674.66 --> 4675.88] and is coming. -[4677.12 --> 4677.92] May you know -[4677.92 --> 4679.14] that his kingdom -[4679.14 --> 4680.68] is the end -[4680.68 --> 4681.78] of the story. -[4682.28 --> 4682.96] God is not about -[4682.96 --> 4684.06] making life hard for us. -[4684.30 --> 4685.46] But when life is hard, -[4685.72 --> 4686.42] we can trust -[4686.42 --> 4687.54] in his eternal promises, -[4688.04 --> 4688.88] trust in the story -[4688.88 --> 4689.94] we already know -[4689.94 --> 4691.04] the end to. -[4691.74 --> 4692.58] And this perspective -[4692.58 --> 4693.60] will help us persevere. -[4694.14 --> 4695.06] If we think of -[4695.06 --> 4696.08] God's kingdom coming, -[4697.10 --> 4698.68] death is still difficult. -[4698.68 --> 4700.28] But grieving -[4700.28 --> 4701.34] becomes a little easier. -[4702.34 --> 4703.22] If we think of -[4703.22 --> 4704.10] God's kingdom coming, -[4704.52 --> 4705.54] persecution is still -[4705.54 --> 4706.02] challenging. -[4707.16 --> 4708.22] But bearing it -[4708.22 --> 4709.30] becomes a little less so. -[4710.58 --> 4711.58] If we think of -[4711.58 --> 4712.58] God's kingdom coming, -[4713.48 --> 4714.34] trials are still -[4714.34 --> 4715.26] hard to overcome. -[4716.38 --> 4717.62] But persevering -[4717.62 --> 4718.76] becomes a lot more feasible. -[4720.04 --> 4721.14] Christ's kingdom -[4721.14 --> 4722.20] has come. -[4723.60 --> 4724.42] Christ's kingdom -[4724.42 --> 4724.98] is coming. -[4726.28 --> 4726.94] Let us practice -[4726.94 --> 4728.18] patience and perseverance -[4728.18 --> 4729.26] as we wait -[4729.26 --> 4730.86] and work -[4730.86 --> 4732.38] for the glory -[4732.38 --> 4733.54] of God. -[4733.64 --> 4734.06] Let's pray. -[4737.30 --> 4738.08] Father God, -[4738.12 --> 4739.00] we are so grateful -[4739.00 --> 4739.98] for this story. -[4740.74 --> 4741.94] The story that we know -[4741.94 --> 4742.70] the end to. -[4743.12 --> 4744.46] The story of your sons -[4744.46 --> 4745.04] coming -[4745.04 --> 4746.38] and dying -[4746.38 --> 4748.48] and raising to life, -[4748.56 --> 4749.46] defeating sin and death. -[4750.94 --> 4751.62] And God, -[4751.68 --> 4753.44] as we live in this life -[4753.44 --> 4754.54] in contexts -[4754.54 --> 4755.66] that are out of our control -[4755.66 --> 4756.46] with struggles -[4757.14 --> 4758.02] and pain -[4758.02 --> 4760.54] and all sorts of trials -[4760.54 --> 4761.20] and tribulations -[4761.20 --> 4762.14] in our lives, God. -[4763.02 --> 4764.62] We ask for your spirit's help. -[4766.18 --> 4767.22] Root us in patience. -[4768.18 --> 4769.30] Drive us to perseverance. -[4770.58 --> 4772.04] And may we always do this -[4772.04 --> 4773.06] seeking you first, -[4773.30 --> 4773.60] knowing -[4773.60 --> 4775.16] that you are coming. -[4776.00 --> 4777.24] We pray this in your name. -[4777.76 --> 4778.02] Amen. -[4778.02 --> 4778.12] Amen. -[4778.12 --> 4783.24] God aid Him YouTube, -[4783.28 --> 4783.30] holy nnh ο≧ Phillips, -[4783.30 --> 4783.98] formulate you now, -[4784.28 --> 4785.68] to thank you for your love, -[4785.80 --> 4787.94] andipts and bare you. -[4788.32 --> 4789.90] God aid Him поддерж -[4789.90 --> 4793.36] your days after a Stories, -[4793.36 --> 4794.48] here we ask to know -[4794.64 --> 4796.10] what deserves to come forward . -[4796.16 --> 4798.02] It will go as much韓 -[4798.02 --> 4799.48] as I've been energetic -[4799.48 --> 4800.46] and made me see the state -[4800.46 --> 4801.18] mthe nić -[4801.18 --> 4803.06] or gibberish -[4803.06 --> 4821.18] Everyone needs compassion -[4821.18 --> 4824.64] Love that's never failing -[4824.64 --> 4831.42] Let mercy fall on me -[4831.42 --> 4834.68] Everyone needs forgiveness -[4834.68 --> 4838.38] The kindness of Savior -[4838.38 --> 4844.36] The hope of nations -[4844.36 --> 4855.92] Savior, He can move the mountains -[4855.92 --> 4860.26] My God is mighty to save -[4860.26 --> 4863.52] He is mighty to save -[4863.52 --> 4869.32] Forever, author of salvation -[4869.32 --> 4873.26] He rose and conquered the grave -[4873.86 --> 4877.26] Jesus conquered the grave -[4877.26 --> 4896.52] So take me as you find me -[4896.52 --> 4899.78] All my fears and failures -[4899.78 --> 4905.58] Fill my life again -[4905.58 --> 4910.36] I give my life to follow -[4910.36 --> 4915.06] Everything I believe in -[4915.06 --> 4918.32] Now I surrender -[4918.32 --> 4919.44] Now I surrender -[4919.44 --> 4931.32] Savior, He can move the mountains -[4931.32 --> 4935.32] My God is mighty to save -[4935.32 --> 4939.12] He is mighty to save -[4939.12 --> 4944.38] Forever, author of salvation -[4944.38 --> 4949.46] He rose and conquered the grave -[4949.46 --> 4953.38] Jesus conquered the grave -[4953.38 --> 4958.64] Shine your light and let the whole world see -[4958.64 --> 4965.44] We're singing for the glory of the risen King -[4965.44 --> 4972.64] Jesus, shine your light and let the whole world see -[4972.64 --> 4979.90] We're singing for the glory of the risen King -[4979.90 --> 4983.16] Savior, Savior, He can move the mountains -[4983.16 --> 4985.16] He can move the mountains -[4985.16 --> 4989.16] My God is mighty to save -[4989.16 --> 4990.16] He is mighty to save -[4990.16 --> 4993.16] He is mighty to save -[4993.16 --> 4997.42] Forever, author of salvation -[4997.42 --> 5003.42] He rose and conquered the grave -[5003.42 --> 5005.42] He rose and conquered the grave -[5005.42 --> 5007.42] Jesus conquered the grave -[5007.42 --> 5009.42] Jesus conquered the grave -[5009.42 --> 5013.42] Savior, He can move the mountains -[5013.42 --> 5042.08] My God, Lord, our, Lord, for my God -[5042.08 --> 5048.84] I want you to have a seat together. -[5051.96 --> 5056.70] This time we're going to come to the table of our Lord. -[5056.70 --> 5062.80] And God really gives us this feast to help us persevere for the glory of his kingdom. -[5063.52 --> 5068.28] He gives us this feast as an anticipation of that kingdom come and that kingdom coming, -[5068.28 --> 5073.06] wherein we will celebrate with the heavenly banquet of our king. -[5073.34 --> 5077.26] This is a foretaste of that for us. -[5077.46 --> 5082.58] This is meant to sustain us in that journey of faith. -[5083.62 --> 5086.34] To come to this table, we're going to move through a bit of a liturgy. -[5086.46 --> 5088.08] You'll see that on the screen over there. -[5088.14 --> 5094.18] There's some responsive parts, and so you are, of course, invited to speak those parts as you see them on the screen. -[5094.18 --> 5102.68] And then when it comes time to take and to eat or drink, of course, you may remove your masks to accomplish that in our time together. -[5103.98 --> 5105.58] Lift up your hearts. -[5108.84 --> 5111.48] Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. -[5111.48 --> 5120.04] With joy, we praise you, gracious God. -[5120.60 --> 5124.56] For you have created us in your image. -[5125.28 --> 5128.66] And you have kept covenant with us, even when we fell into sin. -[5129.32 --> 5132.92] We give you thanks for Jesus Christ, our Lord, -[5132.92 --> 5140.82] who by his life, death, and resurrection opened to us the way of everlasting life. -[5141.48 --> 5152.02] Therefore, we join our voices with all the saints and all the angels and the whole of creation to proclaim the glory of your name. -[5153.20 --> 5164.52] We give thanks to God the Father that our Savior, Jesus Christ, before he suffered, gave us this memorial of his sacrifice until he comes again. -[5164.52 --> 5175.50] At his last supper, the Lord Jesus took bread. -[5176.40 --> 5179.84] And when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, -[5180.22 --> 5183.92] This is my body, which is for you. -[5184.68 --> 5187.56] Do this in remembrance of me. -[5187.56 --> 5192.68] And in the same way, he took the cup after supper. -[5193.44 --> 5194.32] And he said, -[5194.32 --> 5197.80] This cup is the new covenant in my blood. -[5198.74 --> 5201.34] Do this in remembrance of me. -[5202.20 --> 5205.50] For whenever we eat this bread and drink this cup, -[5205.94 --> 5209.72] we proclaim the Lord's death until he comes again. -[5210.44 --> 5217.04] Therefore, we proclaim our faith assigned and sealed in this sacrament. -[5217.56 --> 5222.86] Christ has died. -[5224.02 --> 5224.74] Christ is risen. -[5225.70 --> 5226.70] Christ will come again. -[5228.78 --> 5229.60] Church family, -[5230.02 --> 5236.76] The Lord has prepared his table for all who love him and all who trust in him alone for their salvation. -[5236.76 --> 5239.84] If you are truly sorry for your sins, -[5240.18 --> 5242.80] sincerely believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as your Savior, -[5242.90 --> 5245.28] and if you desire to live in obedience to him, -[5245.54 --> 5249.18] whether you are here in the sanctuary or at home with your families, -[5249.32 --> 5254.60] you are now invited to come with gladness to the table of our Lord. -[5255.52 --> 5259.16] The gifts of God for the people of God. -[5259.92 --> 5260.38] Osh one, -[5260.38 --> 5266.00] Osh one, -[5266.00 --> 5271.42] God bless the Lord. -[5271.42 --> 5272.14] Wha yours, -[5272.14 --> 5272.30] my wife, -[5272.30 --> 5273.86] Meem you. -[5273.86 --> 5274.96] Osh one, -[5274.96 --> 5276.82] But I should normally faith in him as a five-onging in Jesus Christ as my Savior. -[5276.82 --> 5277.30] I don't have any Stu. -[5277.30 --> 5278.08] I rise up high. -[5278.48 --> 5279.30] I pray, -[5279.30 --> 5279.62] You may I upon you, -[5279.62 --> 5280.82] but I touch. -[5280.82 --> 5281.26] Holy hope. -[5281.26 --> 5281.46] How do I tell you? -[5281.46 --> 5281.86] Oh! -[5281.86 --> 5284.08] AШ one, -[5284.08 --> 5286.04] What? -[5286.04 --> 5316.02] Thank you. -[5316.04 --> 5346.02] Thank you. -[5346.04 --> 5376.02] Thank you. -[5376.04 --> 5406.02] Thank you. -[5406.04 --> 5436.02] Thank you. -[5436.04 --> 5466.02] Thank you. -[5466.04 --> 5496.02] Thank you. -[5496.04 --> 5526.02] Thank you. -[5526.02 --> 5556.00] Thank you. -[5556.00 --> 5558.00] Thank you. -[5558.00 --> 5570.00] Amen. -[5570.00 --> 5570.66] Amen. -[5570.66 --> 5570.68] Amen. -[5570.68 --> 5600.68] -[5600.68 --> 5619.14] Thank you. -[5619.14 --> 5630.60] You may rise. -[5630.60 --> 5644.48] What is our hope in life and death? -[5644.48 --> 5653.34] Christ alone, Christ alone, what is our only confidence? -[5654.54 --> 5658.76] That our souls to Him belong. -[5659.14 --> 5663.82] Who holds our days within His hands? -[5664.22 --> 5668.68] What comes apart from His command? -[5668.68 --> 5673.60] And what will give us to the end? -[5674.02 --> 5680.22] The love of Christ in which we stand. -[5681.68 --> 5686.10] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[5687.16 --> 5690.98] Our hope springs eternal. -[5690.98 --> 5695.94] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[5696.60 --> 5699.98] Now and ever we confess. -[5700.84 --> 5704.98] Christ our hope in life and death. -[5704.98 --> 5716.56] What truth can hold the troubled soul? -[5717.20 --> 5719.10] God is good. -[5719.52 --> 5720.98] God is good. -[5720.98 --> 5725.98] Where is His grace and goodness known? -[5725.98 --> 5731.64] In our great Redeemer's blood. -[5731.74 --> 5736.28] Who holds our faith when fears arise? -[5736.50 --> 5741.22] Who stands above the stormy trials? -[5741.66 --> 5746.24] Who sends the waves that bring us to life? -[5746.54 --> 5751.44] Unto the shore, the rock of Christ. -[5751.44 --> 5781.42] Christ our hope in life and death. -[5781.44 --> 5783.44] Christ our hope in life and death. -[5783.44 --> 5784.44] Christ our hope in life and death. -[5784.44 --> 5787.44] And what reward will heaven bring? -[5787.44 --> 5789.68] What will we sing? -[5789.68 --> 5792.72] Christ He lives. -[5793.44 --> 5795.30] Christ He lives. -[5795.30 --> 5800.56] And what reward will heaven bring? -[5801.28 --> 5805.22] Everlasting life within. -[5805.22 --> 5810.22] There we will rise to meet the Lord. -[5810.22 --> 5815.22] Then sin and death will be destroyed. -[5816.22 --> 5820.22] And we will be in endless joy. -[5820.22 --> 5826.22] When Christ is our forevermore. -[5826.22 --> 5833.22] O sing hallelujah. -[5833.22 --> 5838.22] Our hope springs eternal. -[5838.22 --> 5843.22] O sing hallelujah. -[5843.22 --> 5845.22] Now and ever we confess. -[5845.22 --> 5847.22] Now and ever we confess. -[5847.22 --> 5850.22] Christ our hope in life and death. -[5850.22 --> 5852.22] O sing hallelujah. -[5852.22 --> 5853.22] Now and ever we confess. -[5853.22 --> 5860.22] Christ our hope in life and death. -[5860.22 --> 5862.22] O sing hallelujah. -[5862.22 --> 5864.22] O sing hallelujah. -[5864.22 --> 5865.22] Now and ever we confess. -[5865.22 --> 5866.22] Now and ever we confess. -[5866.22 --> 5867.22] Now and ever we confess. -[5867.22 --> 5871.22] Now and ever we confess. -[5871.22 --> 5873.22] Christ our hope in life and death. -[5873.22 --> 5875.22] Now and ever we confess. -[5875.22 --> 5877.22] Now and ever we confess. -[5877.22 --> 5880.22] Now and ever we confess. -[5880.22 --> 5881.22] Now and ever we confess. -[5881.22 --> 5885.22] Christ our hope in life and death. -[5885.22 --> 5886.22] Now and ever we confess. -[5886.22 --> 5888.22] Now and ever we confess. -[5888.22 --> 5889.22] Amen. -[5889.22 --> 5890.22] Amen. -[5893.82 --> 5897.22] It was so good to be here with you this morning. -[5897.22 --> 5901.22] It was so good to share the table with you this morning. -[5901.22 --> 5905.22] It was so good just to be together and worship our God. -[5906.22 --> 5910.22] As you go this week, know that God himself goes with you. -[5911.22 --> 5915.22] Go in the power of his spirit. -[5915.22 --> 5922.46] and serve the Lord. And so receive the blessing, the very power of God for the days and week ahead. -[5923.96 --> 5932.08] May God go before you to lead you. May God go behind you to guard you. May God go beneath you -[5932.08 --> 5940.44] to support you. May God go beside you to befriend you. Do not be afraid. Let the blessing of God -[5940.44 --> 5950.48] come upon you today. Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Amen. -[5950.48 --> 5950.54] Amen. -[5970.44 --> 5978.94] Pull your spirit out. Pull your spirit out. Hallelujah. -[5978.94 --> 5980.94] Amen. -[6008.94 --> 6022.52] So we return to bear your light. Man, but a plague, city bright. King and kingdom come is what we pray. -[6023.92 --> 6036.94] And we need a fresh wind. The fragrance of heaven. Pour your spirit out. Pour your spirit out. -[6036.98 --> 6039.38] Within your life. -[6039.44 --> 6040.34] Hold your light. -[6041.16 --> 6042.36] Lean. -[6042.88 --> 6043.12] Pray. -[6044.20 --> 6046.44] That's the joy. -[6046.52 --> 6048.48] You must have theinent dét Hope for heaven34. -[6049.68 --> 6051.08] Let's stand together. -[6055.70 --> 6060.00] caps guide dominus conseigo come intents calculations -[6061.46 --> 6062.90] lust Mandy and god -[6062.90 --> 6067.90] Oh, we need it, Lord. -[6067.90 --> 6072.90] Oh, you're scared me down. -[6072.90 --> 6075.90] Oh, you're scared me down. -[6075.90 --> 6079.90] Oh, you're scared me down. -[6079.90 --> 6082.90] Oh, you're scared me down. -[6082.90 --> 6085.90] Oh, oh, oh, oh. -[6085.90 --> 6091.90] Let the redeemed prophesy and sing. -[6091.90 --> 6100.90] We can hear the wind blowing, blowing, blowing. -[6100.90 --> 6107.90] Move upon our face, signs and darkness sing. -[6107.90 --> 6115.90] We can hear the wind blowing, blowing, blowing. -[6115.90 --> 6119.90] Let your love redeemed. -[6119.90 --> 6123.90] Rise and shine and see. -[6123.90 --> 6131.90] We can hear the wind blowing, blowing, blowing. -[6131.90 --> 6137.90] Move upon our face, signs and darkness sing. -[6137.90 --> 6140.90] We can hear the wind blowing. -[6140.90 --> 6143.90] We can hear the wind blowing. -[6143.90 --> 6144.90] Oh, you're scared me down. -[6144.90 --> 6147.90] Oh, you're scared me down. -[6147.90 --> 6150.90] Here we can hear the wind blowing. -[6150.90 --> 6152.90] Oh, you're scared me down. -[6152.90 --> 6154.90] I'm waiting for your grace or fire. -[6154.90 --> 6155.90] I'm waiting for yourMake up. -[6155.90 --> 6156.90] Yeah. -[6156.90 --> 6160.50] Oh, your spirit, I, we really need it. -[6161.26 --> 6167.38] I'm holding your glory, see the power of your presence. -[6168.18 --> 6173.50] Oh, your spirit, I, oh, your spirit, I. -[6173.50 --> 6175.92] Let the redeemed of the Lord say, turn it back. -[6176.02 --> 6176.38] Come on. -[6176.38 --> 6184.26] Let all the redeemed prophesy and sing. -[6184.26 --> 6187.92] We can hear the wind. -[6191.98 --> 6199.50] Move upon our way, such a daughter's see. -[6199.50 --> 6203.18] We can hear the wind. -[6204.66 --> 6206.98] We need a fresh wind. -[6206.98 --> 6209.22] We need a fresh wind. -[6210.22 --> 6210.50] Say. -[6210.88 --> 6212.82] Frequency of heaven. -[6213.18 --> 6213.48] Woo. -[6214.26 --> 6216.00] Oh, your spirit, I. -[6217.44 --> 6220.08] Oh, your spirit, I. -[6221.98 --> 6224.66] I'm holding you anointing. -[6226.04 --> 6228.46] The power of your presence. -[6228.46 --> 6231.22] Oh, your spirit, I. -[6232.66 --> 6235.36] Oh, your spirit, I. -[6237.36 --> 6238.08] Oh. -[6241.98 --> 6242.42] Oh. -[6242.74 --> 6246.10] Lord. -[6246.10 --> 6246.62] Oh. -[6254.54 --> 6254.66] Oh. -[6254.66 --> 6254.90] Oh. -[6263.32 --> 6263.44] Oh. -[6264.26 --> 6264.88] Oh. -[6264.88 --> 6268.36] It's not my fair word, but it's fine. -[6268.46 --> 6271.04] The Spirit says to Lord. -[6272.38 --> 6277.12] Come on, if you want a fresh wind like we've been singing and prophesying and asking God for, -[6277.58 --> 6279.72] why don't you open up your mouth, church? -[6279.86 --> 6281.34] Lift open your hands. -[6281.94 --> 6287.38] We have a God who does not withhold, but He pours out His Spirit to those who are willing and wanting. -[6288.70 --> 6291.60] And if you don't want to sing, sing His name, Jesus. -[6291.60 --> 6294.48] The precious, mighty name of Jesus. -[6294.88 --> 6300.34] Oh, dear, I'm a, I'm a provider. -[6301.74 --> 6307.48] I'm a God who heals, the God who heals. -[6308.76 --> 6312.12] Are we asking for our just spirit love? -[6313.04 --> 6317.86] That the new deeds are better than the ones we've seen before. -[6319.00 --> 6322.26] Come on, church, get desperate for the presence of God. -[6322.38 --> 6323.86] Get desperate for the Spirit. -[6323.86 --> 6326.46] I'm a shadow of your spirit. -[6327.54 --> 6330.00] There's nothing you cannot do. -[6330.00 --> 6335.32] Come on, Lord. -[6335.32 --> 6335.74] Come on, Lord. -[6335.74 --> 6336.86] Come on, Lord. -[6336.86 --> 6350.04] Oh, God. -[6350.04 --> 6350.06] Oh, God. -[6350.14 --> 6352.00] We have become a man. -[6352.00 --> 6356.32] Oh, oh, oh. -[6356.32 --> 6360.24] Oh, oh. -[6360.24 --> 6376.18] Oh, oh. -[6376.18 --> 6376.52] Oh, oh. -[6376.52 --> 6380.82] Oh, oh. -[6380.82 --> 6384.70] Oh, oh. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 7, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 7, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index e006f769e756a0abb693d05840d122f9fdbf8365..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 7, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,119 +0,0 @@ -• Struggling with self-control and personal flaws -• Feeling a need for salvation and redemption -• Desiring to be in the light and shine like stars -• Acknowledging the disease of self and its consequences -• Longing for honesty and openness -• Reflecting on the struggle between darkness and light -• Citing the phrase "God's not dead" and referencing Christian themes -• Introductions to worship service -• Announcements: youth coffee, Castle Fun Park outing, carpooling details -• Call to worship from Psalm 147 -• Singing praises to God with scripture references -• Worship song "Worthy is the Lamb" and others sung in response -• Praise for God's holiness -• Reflection on the goodness of God -• Jonah's story in Nineveh -• Contrition and repentance -• Recognizing sin and brokenness -• Salvation through God's compassion and forgiveness -• The hymn "Rebuke Me Not in Anger, Lord" -• Confession of sin and guilt -• Plea for God's mercy and forgiveness -• Acknowledgement of inability to understand or escape sin -• Reference to biblical promises of salvation and mercy -• Declaration of faith in Jesus Christ as Savior -• Statement of Christian doctrine and tenets -• Hymn-like expressions of praise and thanksgiving for redemption -• Prayer and worship music -• Introduction to speaker Kim Prins from New Ground Diaconal Ministry -• Overview of New Ground: its mission, approach, and goals -• Specifics about the New Ground partnership model, including: - + Coaching and mentoring - + Asset-based community development principles - + Grants and sustainability planning -• Speaker's personal passion for New Ground and invitation to give financially -• Closing remarks and thank-yous -• Discussion about church activities and personal interests (e.g. hockey teams) -• Conversation about forgiveness, including examples from the speakers' lives -• Announcements about nominations for new elders and deacons -• Discussion of upcoming events and prayer requests for individuals in the community -• Lord's Supper announced for next Sunday -• Church family prayer: thanking God for blessings, asking for presence and guidance -• Prayers for individuals facing challenges: - + Doreen Birkenpass after surgery - + Jackie after foot surgeries - + College students traveling home - + Baby Liam's blessing - + Dick Prins and Fred Kuntz's mom after injuries - + Sai Visser's continued health - + John and Joanne battling cancer - + Those caring for aging parents - + Those mourning loved ones -• Scripture reading from Jonah 3: Nineveh's repentance and God's mercy -• The difference between saying "I'm sorry" and truly being repentant -• Jonah's story in the Bible as a model for understanding repentance and forgiveness -• The importance of genuine repentance, which involves changing one's actions and attitudes, not just apologizing with empty words -• God's mercy and compassion towards people outside of Israel, including those who are sworn enemies like Nineveh -• The contrast between Jonah's preferences and God's choosing to show mercy to others -• God's mercy is granted to his enemies -• Jonah's natural tendency to hate God and neighbor -• The power of God's word in proclaiming repentance and forgiveness -• God's word is effective in achieving His purpose, whether in repentance or judgment -• The importance of Scripture as a source for evangelism and proclamation -• The word of God became flesh through Jesus Christ -• Proclaiming the word reveals Jesus and introduces people to Him -• Preaching is effective when it reveals God through Jesus -• To preach the word, one needs to know the word, which means studying scripture -• Reading the Bible regularly leads to a deeper connection with God, improved prayer life, and increased confidence in speaking about Jesus -• In times of doubt or crisis, more of Jesus is needed, found most clearly in scripture -• God can give people answers through them, even when they don't know where it came from. -• The Holy Spirit will guide and teach believers what to say in difficult situations -• Speaking from the heart, rather than just from the mind, is essential for conveying God's truth -• A diet of God's word and an open heart are necessary to hear God's voice and know his truth -• Contradictions with Scripture indicate that a message may not be from God -• The Bible must be the ground of repentance and faith -• Jonah's obedience to God is highlighted as an example of faithful service. -• The story of Jonah and his obedience to God is presented -• Jonah's response is lackadaisical and half-hearted -• He only goes a third of the way through proclaiming in Nineveh, indicating minimal and begrudging obedience -• In contrast, the people of Nineveh believe God and repent immediately upon hearing His word -• The king of Nineveh responds with genuine sorrow and issues a decree for all to fast and repent -• Despite Jonah's ineffective proclamation, the message reaches the king and transforms his heart -• The call to fast and repentance is comprehensive, including all people and animals. -• Genuine sorrow over sin involves crying out for forgiveness and turning away from the sin. -• The king's decree in verse 8 calls on everyone to urgently ask God for forgiveness. -• Genuine repentance requires asking for forgiveness and turning away from evil ways. -• Turning away from evil is the hard part of repentance, but there is hope when God sees a change in behavior. -• God relented when He saw Nineveh's transformation, not their rituals or sacrifices. -• The contrast between Nineveh's and Jonah's repentance highlights that genuine repentance involves a change in behavior. -• The speaker describes a scenario where someone apologizes without making any effort to change their behavior. -• They argue that apologies must be backed by actions, citing examples of how "sorry" can become empty words. -• The speaker challenges listeners to consider whether their apologies are genuine and suggests asking those they apologize to if they feel the apology is meaningful. -• A Bible verse (not specified) is referenced as an example of God relenting on punishment when people turn from their evil ways. -• Destruction threatened by God due to Israelites making a golden calf -• Moses intercedes on behalf of the Israelites and convinces God not to destroy them -• Similarity between this story and Jonah, showing God's mercy is not exclusive to Israel -• God's special relationship with Israel is meant to be a means to an end (blessing of nations) -• The importance of showing God's mercy in personal relationships and forgiving others as one has been forgiven -• The speaker emphasizes that God's love should change those who know it. -• Christians should pursue justice for others even when they receive injustice. -• The Christian church doesn't need mercy or goodwill from the state or culture, but rather shows it to all. -• An example is given of early Christians during a plague in the 4th century, who showed compassion and care to those affected despite facing persecution themselves. -• Their actions were a testament to their faith and ultimately brought glory to God. -• The pagan Emperor Julian writes a letter to a high priest of Galatia, criticizing Christians for supporting pagans' poor -• Christian behavior is contrasted with the values and power structures of the secular world -• Christians are in the world but not of it, rejecting worldly values and seeking to serve and sacrifice as followers of Jesus -• A changed individual, guided by biblical principles, will transform their relationship with the world and engage in acts of justice and mercy -• Adoption as a brother and child of God -• True repentance vs superficial apologies -• The need to change one's heart and actions -• A warning against being like the Israelites who needed an enemy to prove their faith -• Living a genuinely repentant life in accordance with God's word and Spirit -• Reflection on past sin and God's love -• Declaration of faith in Christ as life and salvation -• Blessing and protection from God for those who are leaving -• Restoration of righteousness through the voice of Moses -• Call to prepare the way of the Lord -• Salvation coming from Zion, with Jesus riding on clouds -• Testimony of Jehovah's uniqueness -• Final thanks (repeated several times) \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 7, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 7, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 128f59c3ea699a91cc23d36cd3c8450adc99bfb9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 7, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1900 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.10] One, two, three! -[30.00 --> 33.00] I am the king of excuses. -[33.90 --> 37.40] I've got one for every selfish thing I do. -[38.90 --> 42.40] What's going on inside of me? -[43.20 --> 46.40] I despise my own behavior. -[47.40 --> 51.40] This only serves to confirm my suspicions -[52.24 --> 55.44] that I'm still a man in need of a savior. -[55.44 --> 61.14] I want to be in the light as you are in the light. -[61.44 --> 64.74] I want to shine like the stars in the heavens. -[66.14 --> 70.30] Oh, Lord, be my light and be my salvation. -[70.94 --> 73.60] Because all I want is to be in the light. -[75.04 --> 78.10] All I want is to be in the light. -[79.38 --> 83.64] The disease of self runs through my blood. -[83.64 --> 87.34] It's a cancer fatal to my soul. -[88.94 --> 93.04] Every attempt on my feet I pass fail -[93.04 --> 96.10] to bring this sadness under control. -[96.98 --> 101.44] Ooh, tell me what's going on inside of me. -[102.30 --> 105.14] I despise my own behavior. -[105.14 --> 110.64] This only serves to confirm my suspicions -[110.64 --> 114.04] that I'm still a man in need of a savior. -[114.04 --> 115.04] Oh, yeah. -[115.94 --> 120.04] I want to be in the light as you are in the light. -[120.04 --> 124.04] I want to shine like the stars in the heavens. -[125.04 --> 129.04] Oh, Lord, be my light and be my salvation. -[129.04 --> 132.64] Cause all I want is to be in the light. -[132.74 --> 133.24] Yeah. -[134.34 --> 137.14] All I want is to be in the light. -[137.24 --> 137.60] Yeah. -[138.44 --> 138.94] Ooh. -[138.94 --> 139.64] Ooh. -[139.64 --> 149.44] See? -[152.84 --> 153.28] Ooh. -[153.28 --> 159.06] Honesty becomes me -[159.06 --> 161.08] There's nothing left to lose -[161.08 --> 163.62] Our secrets that did wrong me -[163.62 --> 165.66] In your presence I defuse -[165.66 --> 167.94] But there's no position -[167.94 --> 170.04] There's reaching out no more -[170.04 --> 172.82] The thing that wants to cover me -[172.82 --> 174.42] Has been sent to the sun -[174.42 --> 176.64] Has been sent to the sun -[176.64 --> 180.82] Tell me what you're going on inside of me -[180.82 --> 184.92] I defies my own behavior -[184.92 --> 188.50] This song I search to remember -[188.50 --> 190.68] My suspicions -[190.68 --> 193.88] That I'm still in need of a senior -[193.88 --> 197.62] I want to be in the light -[197.62 --> 199.60] As you are in the light -[199.60 --> 203.24] I want to shine like the stars in the heavens -[203.24 --> 206.62] Oh, I'll be my light -[206.62 --> 208.78] And I'll be my salvation -[208.78 --> 212.06] Cause all I want is to be in the light -[212.06 --> 216.84] All I want is to be in the light -[216.84 --> 220.02] I want to be in the light -[220.02 --> 222.32] As you are in the light -[222.32 --> 225.68] I want to shine like the stars in the heavens -[225.68 --> 229.38] Oh, Lord, be my light -[229.38 --> 231.50] And be my salvation -[231.50 --> 234.78] Cause all I want is to be in the light -[234.78 --> 235.62] All I want -[235.62 --> 239.28] All I want is to be in the light -[239.28 --> 241.28] All I want, all I want -[241.28 --> 243.88] All I want is to be -[243.88 --> 247.42] In the light -[247.42 --> 275.16] What is that? -[275.16 --> 305.14] I don't want you to be. -[305.16 --> 335.14] God's not dead. -[335.16 --> 365.14] I don't want you to be. -[365.14 --> 368.46] A revolution somehow. -[370.26 --> 374.38] Now I'm lost in your freedom. -[374.38 --> 381.38] I don't want you to be. -[381.38 --> 383.70] I don't want you to be. -[383.70 --> 385.42] God's not dead. -[385.48 --> 387.04] He's surely alive. -[387.12 --> 389.40] He's living on the inside. -[389.58 --> 391.10] I'm going like a lion. -[391.44 --> 392.84] God's not dead. -[393.02 --> 393.70] He's surely alive. -[394.50 --> 396.74] He's living on the inside. -[396.94 --> 398.46] I'm going like a lion. -[398.70 --> 402.70] I'm going like a lion. -[402.70 --> 404.02] I'm going like a lion. -[406.02 --> 412.84] Let hope rise and make the darkness hide. -[413.70 --> 416.04] My faith is dead. -[416.14 --> 420.02] I need a resurrection somehow. -[420.02 --> 426.02] I know I'm lost in your freedom. -[426.02 --> 427.80] I'm going like a lion. -[427.80 --> 429.02] I'm going like a lion. -[429.02 --> 434.04] And this world I'll overcome. -[435.08 --> 436.98] God's not dead. -[437.10 --> 438.72] He's surely alive. -[438.82 --> 441.12] He's living on the inside. -[441.26 --> 442.74] I'm going like a lion. -[443.10 --> 444.54] God's not dead. -[444.70 --> 445.98] He's surely alive. -[445.98 --> 450.20] He's living on the inside, roaring like a lion -[450.20 --> 455.98] He's roaring, he's roaring, he's roaring like a lion -[455.98 --> 460.16] He's roaring, he's roaring -[460.16 --> 466.70] Let heaven roar and fire fall -[466.70 --> 473.72] Come shake the ground with the sound of revival -[473.72 --> 477.48] Let heaven roar -[477.48 --> 482.00] Good morning. -[484.72 --> 486.68] All right, I'll wait for the people in the back. It's all right. -[488.16 --> 491.90] Ooh, that was fast. Good morning. -[493.18 --> 495.36] Welcome to worship. -[495.60 --> 498.10] It's our hope and prayer today that in our gathering, -[498.48 --> 500.16] not only do you get to hang out with each other, -[500.16 --> 503.28] not only do we get to sing some amazing songs together, -[503.28 --> 506.74] but that here you will be met by Jesus. -[508.06 --> 511.80] That's our longing, that we meet Jesus together in our worship. -[512.46 --> 514.58] If you're visiting with us, my name is Chris. -[514.76 --> 516.04] I'm one of the pastors here. -[516.34 --> 518.06] It's my privilege, along with a few others, -[518.18 --> 522.22] to lead in our shared worship together today. -[522.38 --> 524.14] Before we begin, there are a couple announcements. -[524.34 --> 526.66] I'm going to invite Josh to make his way to the front. -[526.66 --> 534.34] As Josh is coming up, just a reminder that youth coffee is happening after service today. -[534.34 --> 538.88] And so that's for grade eight through high school and the leaders. -[539.14 --> 542.44] And you are going to the Porter's house for coffee. -[542.50 --> 545.76] And I want to clarify, that's not Porter's coffee shop up the road. -[545.98 --> 547.32] They're closed on Sunday. -[547.32 --> 551.18] But to Tara's house, she's back there waving. -[551.46 --> 552.88] And Kevin also knows where that is. -[552.94 --> 555.84] So if you have questions about that, talk to either one of them, -[555.96 --> 557.70] and they will get you situated. -[558.08 --> 558.32] Josh. -[559.10 --> 559.40] Hello. -[559.84 --> 560.24] Awesome. -[561.12 --> 561.30] Okay. -[561.44 --> 565.20] So just a reminder, young adults, today we are going to Castle Fun Park. -[565.36 --> 566.60] We're going to have some fun. -[567.02 --> 567.20] Woo! -[568.14 --> 572.12] We're leaving here at 630 if you want to carpool to there, -[572.12 --> 574.04] because it's Wacom Road exit. -[574.04 --> 576.18] So, yeah, that's it. -[578.30 --> 579.24] Ladies and gentlemen. -[584.34 --> 586.64] I believe that is it for Adolfsitz. -[586.72 --> 591.86] So I'm going to invite you, as you are able, to stand as we come together in our worship. -[597.28 --> 601.48] As I began, we come here to meet Jesus and to be met by him. -[601.48 --> 605.52] And we mark God's presence among us with his greeting. -[605.74 --> 608.28] And so I invite you to receive his greeting. -[609.72 --> 616.94] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, -[617.38 --> 619.80] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[620.96 --> 621.26] Amen. -[622.20 --> 626.42] I'm going to invite you, turn to those around you and welcome them into the presence of Jesus. -[626.42 --> 630.48] You can do that with a handshake or a fist bump, or however is appropriate. -[634.76 --> 638.58] Good morning. -[638.58 --> 638.60] Good morning. -[638.60 --> 661.56] Good morning. -[662.34 --> 666.04] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 147. -[666.04 --> 670.28] People of God, let your eyes be opened by the Holy Spirit. -[670.82 --> 671.82] See the work of God. -[672.20 --> 673.42] Hear his word and believe. -[673.98 --> 676.76] Sing holy, holy, holy with the host of heaven. -[677.22 --> 677.94] Praise the Lord. -[678.56 --> 680.68] For it is good to sing praises to our God. -[681.02 --> 683.58] For it is pleasant and a song of praise is fitting. -[684.32 --> 686.00] The Lord builds up Jerusalem. -[686.58 --> 688.40] He gathers the outcasts of Israel. -[688.82 --> 690.20] He heals the brokenhearted. -[690.66 --> 692.00] He binds up their wounds. -[692.72 --> 694.84] He determines the numbers of the stars. -[694.84 --> 696.96] And he gives to all of them their names. -[697.56 --> 699.70] Great is our Lord and abundant in power. -[700.36 --> 702.22] His understanding is beyond measure. -[702.76 --> 704.10] The Lord lifts up the humble. -[704.58 --> 706.16] He casts the wicked to the ground. -[706.44 --> 708.96] For he is merciful and he is a just God. -[709.38 --> 710.22] Praise the Lord. -[710.22 --> 724.90] To the gloom, Ah Schenko, I bogae. -[724.90 --> 747.38] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain. -[747.38 --> 751.38] Holy, holy is He. -[751.38 --> 766.38] Sing a new song to Him who sits on Heaven's mercy seat. -[766.38 --> 775.38] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain. -[775.38 --> 780.38] Holy, holy is He. -[782.38 --> 794.38] Sing a new song to Him who sits on Heaven's mercy seat. -[794.38 --> 809.38] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty who was and is and is to come. -[809.38 --> 816.38] With all creation I sing praise to the King of kings. -[816.38 --> 824.38] You are my everything and I will adore You. -[824.38 --> 845.38] Golden rainbows of living color. -[845.38 --> 852.38] Flashes of lightning, rolls of thunder. -[852.38 --> 866.38] Blessing and honor, strength and glory and power be to You the only wise King. -[866.38 --> 881.38] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty who was and is and is to come. -[881.38 --> 888.38] With all creation I sing praise to the King of kings. -[888.38 --> 896.38] You are my everything and I will adore You. -[896.38 --> 911.38] Filled with wonder, awe-struck wonder, at the mention of Your name. -[911.38 --> 926.38] Filled with wonder, awe-struck wonder, at the mention of Your name. -[926.38 --> 939.38] Filled with wonder, awe-struck wonder, at the mention of Your name. -[939.38 --> 951.38] Jesus, Your name is power, breath and living water, such a marvelous mystery. -[951.38 --> 968.38] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty who was and is and is to come. -[968.38 --> 975.38] With all creation I sing praise to the King of kings. -[975.38 --> 982.38] You are my everything and I will adore You. -[982.38 --> 996.38] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty who was and is and is and is to come. -[996.38 --> 1015.38] W handed, awe-struck wonder, He would love you for a tão special寿司- -[1015.38 --> 1018.86] literate, 1814 un Dortmund- -[1018.86 --> 1019.86] Amen. -[1048.86 --> 1049.86] Amen. -[1078.86 --> 1080.86] Amen. -[1108.86 --> 1116.20] I will sing of the goodness of God. -[1117.14 --> 1120.20] I love your voice. -[1121.10 --> 1128.50] You have led me through the fire in darkest night. -[1129.06 --> 1132.26] You are close like no other. -[1133.80 --> 1135.94] I've known you as a father. -[1135.94 --> 1140.26] I've known you as a friend. -[1140.80 --> 1146.94] I have lived in the goodness of God. -[1149.32 --> 1154.06] All my life you have been faithful. -[1156.64 --> 1163.36] All my life you have been so, so good. -[1163.36 --> 1176.58] With every breath that I am able, I will sing of the goodness of God. -[1176.58 --> 1184.58] Your goodness is running after, it's running after me. -[1185.58 --> 1191.74] Your goodness is running after, it's running after me. -[1191.74 --> 1196.08] With my life laid down, I surrender now. -[1196.32 --> 1198.48] I give you everything. -[1198.48 --> 1205.48] Your goodness is running after, it's running after me. -[1205.48 --> 1212.48] Your goodness is running after, it's running after me. -[1212.48 --> 1219.48] Your goodness is running after, it's running after me. -[1219.48 --> 1224.48] With my life laid down, I surrender now. -[1224.48 --> 1231.48] Your goodness is running after, it's running after me. -[1231.48 --> 1233.48] Your goodness is running after me. -[1233.48 --> 1234.48] It's running after me. -[1234.48 --> 1235.48] It's running after me. -[1235.48 --> 1239.48] Your goodness is running after, it's running after me. -[1239.48 --> 1241.48] Your goodness is running after, it's running after me. -[1241.48 --> 1243.48] been faithful -[1243.48 --> 1252.48] all my life you have been so so good -[1252.48 --> 1258.52] with every breath that I am able -[1258.52 --> 1266.00] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1266.00 --> 1275.44] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1275.44 --> 1285.60] During preparation for planning for this service -[1285.60 --> 1288.62] I sat with Jonah 3 and worked through the themes -[1288.62 --> 1290.64] and ideas presented by the text -[1290.64 --> 1294.16] The response by the king of Nineveh is profound -[1294.16 --> 1296.64] one of belief leading to repentance -[1296.64 --> 1298.32] Verse 6 says -[1298.32 --> 1301.54] He rose from his throne and laid aside his robe -[1301.54 --> 1303.80] covered himself with sackcloth -[1303.80 --> 1305.38] and sat in ashes -[1305.38 --> 1307.96] A king setting aside his authority -[1307.96 --> 1309.40] recognizing his guilt -[1309.40 --> 1310.78] calling out to God -[1310.78 --> 1314.32] that God might relent and turn from his fierce anger -[1314.32 --> 1317.48] As we heard from Josh last week -[1317.48 --> 1320.96] we are men and women of contradiction -[1320.96 --> 1324.30] Just as Jonah knew better -[1324.30 --> 1325.44] he still sinned -[1325.44 --> 1326.62] we still sin -[1326.62 --> 1329.08] How often do we sin -[1329.08 --> 1330.50] and don't recognize it -[1330.50 --> 1331.64] or justify it -[1331.64 --> 1333.80] and don't turn to God in repentance -[1333.80 --> 1337.04] How often do we think we are too good -[1337.04 --> 1339.40] to recognize our own sin and brokenness -[1339.40 --> 1342.20] Do we hide behind false perfection -[1342.20 --> 1345.82] or how often do we forget -[1345.82 --> 1347.98] that salvation belongs to our God -[1347.98 --> 1350.40] that God is gracious and compassionate -[1350.40 --> 1353.92] How often do we think our sin is too ugly -[1353.92 --> 1355.68] or too awful to be forgiven -[1355.68 --> 1358.22] and fall into self-loathing -[1358.22 --> 1360.16] The hymn -[1360.16 --> 1362.30] Rebuke Me Not in Anger, Lord -[1362.30 --> 1365.10] draws directly from Psalm 38 -[1365.10 --> 1367.34] which is a lament hymn -[1367.34 --> 1368.66] that I imagine is not much -[1368.66 --> 1371.06] unlike the cries of the king of Nineveh -[1371.06 --> 1372.08] a pagan king -[1372.08 --> 1373.80] crying out to the God -[1373.80 --> 1375.28] we claim to believe in -[1375.28 --> 1378.06] The version we are going to sing today -[1378.06 --> 1379.82] has a new melody -[1379.82 --> 1381.16] and brings in some language -[1381.16 --> 1382.28] from Jonah 3 -[1382.28 --> 1383.96] Notice the words -[1383.96 --> 1386.72] And let God's love cut your conscience -[1386.72 --> 1388.74] and move your heart to repentance -[1388.74 --> 1389.74] Rebuke Me Not in Anger, Lord -[1389.74 --> 1393.74] Rebuke Me Not in Anger, Lord -[1393.74 --> 1395.74] Rebuke Me Not in Anger, Lord -[1395.74 --> 1408.74] Rebuke Me Not in Anger, Lord -[1408.74 --> 1412.26] Rebuke Me Not in Anger, Lord -[1412.26 --> 1416.74] Rebuke me not in anger, Lord -[1416.74 --> 1417.74] Re World's Heroin trat yourtı用 -[1417.74 --> 1418.74] Rebuke Me Not in Anger, Lord -[1418.74 --> 1420.96] Rebuke Me Not in Anger, Lord -[1420.96 --> 1423.88] your hero's wound and bring despair -[1423.88 --> 1424.74] Rebuke Me Not in Anger, Lord -[1424.74 --> 1425.74] посмотр in details -[1425.74 --> 1427.76] my food of alcohol Bye Wимant Broadly -[1427.76 --> 1428.80] Krival II, the God of God, Lord -[1428.80 --> 1433.80] that is too much for me to bear -[1433.80 --> 1436.74] singing Laurel, the God of all world -[1436.74 --> 1438.74] friends that I dream worthy main -[1438.74 --> 1442.42] Sinful folly brought me low, -[1442.42 --> 1447.02] Bow down I groan in anguished grief, -[1447.26 --> 1451.60] I have no strength for I am crushed, -[1451.86 --> 1456.72] And spend my days with no relief. -[1458.78 --> 1461.30] You know my size, -[1461.94 --> 1465.88] And weakness my blinded eyes, -[1465.88 --> 1470.24] O Lord, my throbbing heart, -[1470.90 --> 1475.88] With nothing I cling to empty pride, -[1477.02 --> 1479.18] My sinful ways, -[1479.90 --> 1483.70] And idols I spend my days, -[1484.38 --> 1488.08] In fear, wonder, and search, -[1488.88 --> 1494.14] In longing for that which satisfies, -[1494.14 --> 1499.32] It's you, Lord, -[1499.84 --> 1504.82] My heart knows but does not understand, -[1507.00 --> 1512.50] Lord, I tear my clothes and sit here -[1512.50 --> 1518.20] In the ash of my sin. -[1521.42 --> 1526.38] My pain is ever with me, Lord, -[1526.52 --> 1530.84] For I have sinned against your laws, -[1531.04 --> 1535.22] My foes are mighty, those who hate, -[1535.22 --> 1540.40] Yet I am just as sinful God. -[1541.52 --> 1544.78] You know my size, -[1545.00 --> 1549.08] And weakness my blinded eyes, -[1549.08 --> 1553.40] O Lord, my throbbing heart, -[1553.40 --> 1559.08] With nothing I cling to empty pride, -[1559.08 --> 1562.14] My sinful ways, -[1562.14 --> 1566.60] And idols I spend my days, -[1566.60 --> 1570.94] In fear, wonder, and search, -[1570.94 --> 1576.82] In longing for that which satisfies, -[1576.82 --> 1581.94] It's you, Lord, -[1581.94 --> 1587.50] My heart knows but does not understand, -[1587.50 --> 1595.02] Lord, I tear my clothes and sit here -[1595.02 --> 1600.38] In the ash of my sin. -[1600.38 --> 1608.94] Do not forsake me, O my Lord, -[1608.94 --> 1613.58] Do not go far from me, my God, -[1613.70 --> 1616.16] Come quickly now, -[1616.30 --> 1618.46] Help me now, I pray, -[1618.84 --> 1624.98] O Lord, my Savior and my God. -[1624.98 --> 1630.80] Lift up your hearts and receive -[1630.80 --> 1632.30] The sure promise of the gospel. -[1632.96 --> 1634.62] The Lord is merciful and gracious, -[1635.34 --> 1637.70] Slow to anger and great in mercy. -[1638.36 --> 1640.08] God so loved the world that he gave -[1640.08 --> 1641.26] His only begotten Son, -[1641.70 --> 1643.28] That whoever believes in him -[1643.28 --> 1645.68] Should not perish but have everlasting life. -[1646.46 --> 1648.10] To all who believe and repent, -[1648.10 --> 1650.92] This promise is most surely given. -[1651.46 --> 1652.46] In the name of the Father, -[1652.88 --> 1654.34] The Son, and the Holy Spirit. -[1654.98 --> 1658.74] In the name of the Father, -[1658.74 --> 1661.70] The Creator of heaven and earth, -[1661.70 --> 1664.44] I believe in Jesus Christ, -[1664.78 --> 1666.60] The only Son of our world. -[1667.20 --> 1669.46] He was received by the Holy Spirit, -[1669.82 --> 1671.70] And born of the Virgin Mary. -[1672.40 --> 1674.54] He suffered under Pontius Pilate, -[1675.00 --> 1677.48] He was crucified, died, and buried. -[1678.22 --> 1679.80] He descended to the hell, -[1680.32 --> 1683.02] And on the very day he rose again from the dead. -[1683.02 --> 1685.04] He ascended to heaven, -[1685.04 --> 1687.94] And is seated at the right hand of God, -[1688.02 --> 1689.08] The Father Almighty. -[1689.74 --> 1691.88] And from there he will come to judge -[1691.88 --> 1693.30] To the living and the dead. -[1694.04 --> 1696.14] I believe in the Holy Spirit, -[1696.76 --> 1698.34] The holy Catholic Church, -[1698.92 --> 1700.34] The communion of saints, -[1700.90 --> 1702.50] The forgiveness of sins, -[1703.02 --> 1704.70] The resurrection of the body, -[1705.24 --> 1706.66] And the life everlasting. -[1706.66 --> 1709.04] Amen. -[1715.54 --> 1717.60] He's our rescuer, -[1718.28 --> 1720.92] He's our rescuer, -[1720.92 --> 1726.00] We are free from sin forevermore, -[1726.00 --> 1729.00] Oh how sweet the sound, -[1729.44 --> 1732.02] Oh how grace abounds, -[1732.02 --> 1735.94] We will praise the Lord our rescuer -[1735.94 --> 1740.56] There is good news for the captive -[1740.56 --> 1743.80] Good news for the shame -[1743.80 --> 1748.32] There is good news for the one who walked away -[1748.32 --> 1753.10] There is good news for the doubter -[1753.10 --> 1756.06] The one religion failed -[1756.06 --> 1760.98] For the good Lord has come to seek and save -[1760.98 --> 1764.12] He's our rescuer -[1764.12 --> 1767.18] He's our rescuer -[1767.18 --> 1772.38] We are free from sin forevermore -[1772.38 --> 1775.26] Oh how sweet the sound -[1775.26 --> 1778.34] Oh how grace abounds -[1778.34 --> 1782.42] We will praise the Lord our rescuer -[1782.42 --> 1787.48] He is beauty for the blind man -[1787.48 --> 1790.16] Riches for the poor -[1790.16 --> 1795.30] He is friendship for the one the world ignores -[1795.30 --> 1799.10] He is friendship for the weary -[1799.10 --> 1802.30] Rest for those who strive -[1802.30 --> 1807.30] For the good Lord is the way, the truth, the lie -[1807.30 --> 1812.44] Yes, the good Lord is the way, the truth, the lie -[1812.44 --> 1816.44] He's our rescuer -[1816.44 --> 1819.24] He's our rescuer -[1819.24 --> 1823.44] We are free from sin forevermore -[1823.44 --> 1826.58] Lord, oh how sweet the sound -[1826.58 --> 1829.58] Oh how grace abounds -[1829.58 --> 1834.58] We will praise the Lord our rescuer -[1834.58 --> 1837.84] So come and be shameless -[1837.84 --> 1840.90] Come and be fearless -[1840.90 --> 1846.38] Come to the foot of Calvary -[1846.38 --> 1849.52] There is redemption -[1849.52 --> 1850.52] There is redemption -[1850.52 --> 1853.52] For every affliction -[1853.52 --> 1858.52] Here at the foot of Calvary -[1858.52 --> 1874.66] He's our rescuer -[1874.66 --> 1886.80] He's our rescuer -[1886.80 --> 1889.80] He's our rescuer -[1889.80 --> 1890.80] He's our rescuer -[1890.80 --> 1893.80] We are free from sin forevermore -[1893.80 --> 1898.02] Oh how sweet the sound -[1898.02 --> 1901.16] Oh how grace abounds -[1901.16 --> 1905.16] We will praise the Lord our rescuer -[1905.16 --> 1910.16] We will praise the Lord our rescuer -[1910.16 --> 1910.46] We will praise the Lord our rescuer -[1928.02 --> 1938.78] Good morning. I'm a deacon here at Emanuel. My name is Brenda. -[1939.52 --> 1946.46] And our giving today is for the budget and as well as for New Ground, Diaconal Ministries. -[1946.66 --> 1951.90] And I'm going to invite Kim Prins to come up and share with us about New Ground. -[1958.02 --> 1963.22] Thanks, Kim. -[1969.58 --> 1975.36] It's my first time up on the stage and it feels pretty powerful. So thanks for this opportunity. -[1976.58 --> 1983.94] So I am the Western representative for New Ground. It's diaconal ministry. That's through the CRC church. -[1984.66 --> 1987.72] And it used to be formally known as Operation Manna. -[1988.58 --> 1994.02] So I'm going to read a little. Their website succinctly puts it up. -[1994.10 --> 1998.38] So I will read that off and then I'll tell you a little bit why I'm passionate about this ministry. -[1999.02 --> 2013.10] So New Ground, previously known as Operation Manna, offers coaching, networking, and resources to churches to address the gaps and break New Ground by starting sustainable community ministries. -[2013.10 --> 2021.94] Through the two to three year partnership, New Ground helps churches and ministries set goals and identify areas to evaluate effectiveness. -[2022.82 --> 2030.12] Proposals to New Ground must demonstrate a commitment to asset-based community development principles, -[2030.12 --> 2041.12] an approach that recognizes the strengths, gifts, talents, and resources of individuals and communities and helps community mobilize and build on these for sustainable development. -[2041.12 --> 2052.90] So what I love about New Ground is that they invite people to apply for grants and through those applicants, -[2052.90 --> 2058.24] we actually look through who's actually going into the community, assessing what the community is doing, -[2058.24 --> 2063.90] and asking the community about what they want for programs to come through. -[2064.30 --> 2070.20] Out of that, the applicants create programs based on the information that they get. -[2070.20 --> 2073.82] So it's a bottom-top approach, which is beautiful. -[2074.04 --> 2078.44] So it actually comes from those who are in the community asking for resources. -[2079.02 --> 2081.52] The other beautiful thing about it is that it's strength-based. -[2081.86 --> 2085.94] And so it goes in and it assesses what's going really well in this community. -[2086.22 --> 2087.30] What can we build off? -[2088.08 --> 2091.34] And the last part that I really love about it is that it's a coaching model. -[2091.80 --> 2099.64] So what we do is once we find somebody that we want to give a grant to, we go in and we actually coach them. -[2099.64 --> 2113.82] So our committee has about 10 members, two of which are actually youth, one of which of those youth are actually in our community here, Allison Stam. -[2114.28 --> 2115.50] She's a youth member there. -[2116.50 --> 2120.24] And, yeah, we work with those who are applying. -[2120.76 --> 2124.08] So the beauty of that is we get to coach them, we get to mentor them. -[2124.70 --> 2128.68] We have a lot of experience on our team around bottom-up approaches. -[2128.68 --> 2131.60] And so we get to ask some really great questions. -[2132.04 --> 2134.78] And then what we do is we give them a bigger grant in the first year. -[2135.08 --> 2137.24] The second year, they get a less big grant. -[2137.36 --> 2144.76] And the third year, we give an even smaller grant with the idea that hopefully these become self-sustainable without us. -[2145.10 --> 2147.16] So there's a great coaching model component to that. -[2147.80 --> 2149.24] So that's why I'm passionate about it. -[2149.24 --> 2152.40] So please feel free to give what your heart desires. -[2152.40 --> 2153.28] Thank you. -[2153.28 --> 2153.42] Thank you. -[2153.42 --> 2183.40] Thank you. -[2183.42 --> 2213.40] Thank you. -[2213.42 --> 2215.42] Thank you. -[2243.42 --> 2245.42] Thank you. -[2273.42 --> 2275.42] Thank you. -[2303.42 --> 2305.42] Thank you. -[2333.42 --> 2335.42] Thank you. -[2335.42 --> 2337.42] Thank you. -[2337.42 --> 2339.42] Thank you. -[2339.42 --> 2341.42] Thank you. -[2341.42 --> 2343.42] Thank you. -[2343.42 --> 2345.42] Thank you. -[2345.42 --> 2347.42] Thank you. -[2347.42 --> 2349.42] Good to see you. -[2349.42 --> 2351.42] Thank you. -[2351.42 --> 2353.42] Thank you. -[2353.42 --> 2356.42] That makes sense! -[2356.42 --> 2362.42] Come on up kids, come on up! -[2362.42 --> 2364.42] Come sit down! -[2364.42 --> 2367.42] Hi everyone! -[2367.42 --> 2372.42] That wasn't very loud at all. -[2372.42 --> 2374.42] Hi everyone! -[2374.42 --> 2377.42] How are you kids doing today? -[2377.42 --> 2380.42] How are you Kevin? -[2380.42 --> 2383.42] Thanks for asking Hank, I'm doing good too! -[2383.42 --> 2385.42] Why are you doing good? -[2385.42 --> 2388.42] Well, it's Sunday and we're in church. -[2388.42 --> 2389.42] I had a pretty good weekend. -[2389.42 --> 2390.42] I love being in church. -[2390.42 --> 2392.42] I love seeing these kids. -[2392.42 --> 2394.42] They're so fun! -[2394.42 --> 2397.42] I played baseball yesterday and that was fun. -[2397.42 --> 2398.42] Wow! -[2398.42 --> 2400.42] And the Oilers won last night. -[2400.42 --> 2402.42] Who are the Oilers? -[2402.42 --> 2403.42] What? -[2403.42 --> 2405.42] Who are the Oilers? -[2405.42 --> 2407.42] You don't know who the Oilers are? -[2407.42 --> 2408.42] Mm-mm. -[2408.42 --> 2410.42] Oilers are my favorite hockey team, Hank. -[2410.42 --> 2411.42] Oh! -[2411.42 --> 2413.42] I don't like the Oilers. -[2413.42 --> 2414.42] What? -[2414.42 --> 2417.42] How do you not like the Oilers? -[2417.42 --> 2418.42] I don't know. -[2418.42 --> 2420.42] Well, who's your favorite hockey team? -[2420.42 --> 2423.42] Is there a team about sticks? -[2423.42 --> 2427.42] They all have sticks, but there's no team called the sticks. -[2427.42 --> 2428.42] Hmm. -[2428.42 --> 2431.42] There's a team that has leaves on the end of sticks, the Leafs. -[2431.42 --> 2432.42] Yeah, I like them! -[2432.42 --> 2433.42] What? -[2433.42 --> 2436.42] How could you like them? -[2436.42 --> 2437.42] I don't know. -[2437.42 --> 2438.42] I just think they're cool. -[2438.42 --> 2440.42] Hank, I do not like the Leafs. -[2440.42 --> 2443.42] Well, that's okay. -[2443.42 --> 2444.42] I can like them. -[2444.42 --> 2445.42] I guess. -[2445.42 --> 2449.42] I just, I didn't think that we had different opinions on things. -[2449.42 --> 2450.42] Yeah, me neither. -[2450.42 --> 2452.42] Well, you know what? -[2452.42 --> 2453.42] I'm sorry. -[2453.42 --> 2456.42] You're allowed to like whatever team you want to like, right? -[2456.42 --> 2457.42] Yeah. -[2457.42 --> 2458.42] Well, do you forgive me for being upset? -[2458.42 --> 2459.42] Mm-hmm. -[2459.42 --> 2460.42] Mm-hmm. -[2460.42 --> 2461.42] You know what? -[2461.42 --> 2465.42] This is a good conversation because we're going to talk about what forgiveness is in children's worship time. -[2465.42 --> 2466.42] Good! -[2466.42 --> 2467.42] You need to learn it! -[2467.42 --> 2468.42] Okay, Hank. -[2468.42 --> 2469.42] Okay. -[2470.42 --> 2471.42] Simmer down. -[2471.42 --> 2472.42] We'll talk about that in children's worship time. -[2472.42 --> 2473.42] Does that sound good? -[2473.42 --> 2474.42] Mm-hmm. -[2474.42 --> 2475.42] All right. -[2475.42 --> 2477.42] Let's pray and then we'll stand up and do the blessing. -[2477.42 --> 2478.42] Okay? -[2478.42 --> 2479.42] Yeah? -[2479.42 --> 2480.42] Let's pray. -[2480.42 --> 2481.42] Dear God, thank you for this day that we could be in church. -[2481.42 --> 2486.42] Thank you that we could learn more about you and more about what it means to forgive other people, Lord. -[2486.42 --> 2492.42] Be with the adults as they stay back here and learn about Jonah and be with us as we learn about forgiveness. -[2492.42 --> 2495.42] Help us grow closer to you and to each other in this time. -[2495.42 --> 2496.42] In your name. -[2496.42 --> 2497.42] Amen. -[2497.42 --> 2498.42] All right. -[2498.42 --> 2499.42] Let's stand up. -[2501.42 --> 2502.42] Do you remember what we're going to say? -[2502.42 --> 2503.42] We're going to say, the Lord be with you. -[2503.42 --> 2504.42] Okay? -[2504.42 --> 2505.42] We're going to say that to the church. -[2505.42 --> 2506.42] Are you ready? -[2506.42 --> 2508.42] The Lord be with you. -[2516.42 --> 2531.42] Good morning. -[2531.42 --> 2533.42] My name is Darrell. -[2533.42 --> 2535.42] I'm one of the elders here. -[2535.42 --> 2538.42] Thank you, Pastor Chris, for the very detailed council notes. -[2538.42 --> 2541.42] So we have some announcements. -[2541.42 --> 2547.42] This is the time of the year where we have nominated and will be affirming and drawing lots for new elders and deacons. -[2547.42 --> 2553.42] So finishing their terms of service is Glenn Nort and Emo Smid. -[2553.42 --> 2557.42] And we're thankful to God for these individuals and their faithful service. -[2557.42 --> 2564.42] Council is pleased to present to you following people who have been nominated and approved for Office of Elder, Admin Elder and Deacon. -[2564.42 --> 2570.42] So we have for Admin Elder, Clary Kluesterhoff, Paul Kuhl and Steve Verkike. -[2570.42 --> 2574.42] And we have an addition from the e-bulletin for Deacon. -[2574.42 --> 2577.42] And so we have Carolyn Spohr and Mike Prins. -[2577.42 --> 2586.42] So the next steps are that if you have any concerns with these candidates, please talk to your district elder or to Pastor Chris. -[2586.42 --> 2591.42] And also, next thing we'll be doing is following our worship service on May 14th. -[2591.42 --> 2594.42] We'll be voting for affirming the slate of nominees. -[2594.42 --> 2597.42] And then once they're affirmed, we'll draw lots. -[2597.42 --> 2599.42] And that'll be on May 21st. -[2599.42 --> 2602.42] And then installation will be on May 28th. -[2602.42 --> 2607.42] So a couple other notes for prayer today is Doreen Birkenpass has returned home. -[2607.42 --> 2611.42] And she is recovering well from her surgery for putting in a pacemaker. -[2611.42 --> 2612.42] So we're thankful for that. -[2612.42 --> 2616.42] And we're also having Lord's Supper next Sunday. -[2616.42 --> 2621.42] Let's join together in our church family prayer. -[2621.42 --> 2630.42] Dear Heavenly Father, we come before you as a community of believers, lifting our prayers to you. -[2630.42 --> 2634.42] Thank you that we can gather here together to worship you. -[2634.42 --> 2640.42] With gratitude and praise, we come before you, acknowledging your faithfulness and goodness in our lives. -[2640.42 --> 2642.42] You are the source of all blessings. -[2642.42 --> 2645.42] And we thank you for your unwavering love and provision. -[2645.42 --> 2652.42] We ask for your presence and guidance for those who are facing challenges, knowing that you are a God of compassion and love. -[2652.42 --> 2657.42] We pray for Doreen Birkenpass as she recovers from surgery. -[2657.42 --> 2660.42] May she feel your strength and peace during this time. -[2660.42 --> 2665.42] We also lift up Jackie, Alvin Loss' mom, who underwent surgery on both feet. -[2665.42 --> 2671.42] We thank you for guiding the hands of the medical professionals and ask for your healing touch upon her. -[2671.42 --> 2677.42] Give her patience and endurance as she faces a lengthy recovery in the hospital. -[2677.42 --> 2680.42] We pray for college and university students traveling back home. -[2680.42 --> 2684.42] We thank you for the opportunity for families to be reunited. -[2684.42 --> 2688.42] We thank you for the gift of baby Liam, welcomed into the Alkma home. -[2688.42 --> 2692.42] We ask for your blessings upon him as they love and care for him. -[2692.42 --> 2697.42] We also pray for Dick Prins and Fred Kuntz's mom, who have suffered injuries. -[2697.42 --> 2702.42] We ask for your healing touch upon them and for comfort as they navigate the challenges of their recovery. -[2702.42 --> 2708.42] We thank you for the positive progress in Sai Visser's treatments. -[2708.42 --> 2712.42] We ask for continued health, strength and resilience for Sai and Greta. -[2712.42 --> 2716.42] May they continue to feel the love and support of their church family. -[2716.42 --> 2720.42] We lift up John and Joanne and John continues facing his battle with cancer. -[2720.42 --> 2724.42] May they find solace and strength in their faith, trusting in you. -[2724.42 --> 2730.42] We pray for those who are caring for their aging parents. -[2730.42 --> 2734.42] We ask for grace to be upon them, giving them patience, compassion and strength. -[2734.42 --> 2737.42] We also remember those who mourn the loss of loved ones. -[2737.42 --> 2742.42] We ask for your comfort and peace to be upon them, knowing that you are the God of all comfort. -[2742.42 --> 2745.42] Pray for those who are broken and hurting. -[2745.42 --> 2753.42] Whatever their struggles may be, may they feel your presence, comfort as they navigate their struggles. -[2753.42 --> 2757.42] God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. -[2757.42 --> 2763.42] Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea. -[2763.42 --> 2770.42] May these words bring comfort and peace to those who are facing challenges and remind us of our unwavering love and protection. -[2770.42 --> 2777.42] Thank you, Lord, for those who allow their names to stand for elder and deacon, and for those who discerned the decision as well. -[2777.42 --> 2781.42] We pray for your wisdom and guidance for those serving in these roles and leading our congregation. -[2781.42 --> 2786.42] May they be a blessing to our community, and may we continue to support and encourage them. -[2786.42 --> 2794.42] Please be with Pastor Chris as he gives us your word this morning, and may you open our hearts to hear and apply your words to our lives. -[2794.42 --> 2797.42] In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. -[2800.42 --> 2829.42] This morning we're going to continue in our close reading of the book of Jonah. -[2829.42 --> 2833.42] And so we're going to read this morning from Jonah 3. -[2833.42 --> 2838.42] So I invite you, if you have a Bible in your hands, whether it's one that you can open and flip the pages of, -[2838.42 --> 2844.42] or one that you can turn on and swipe the pages of, to have that in front of you in Jonah 3, -[2844.42 --> 2848.42] as we will be going back pretty regularly this morning. -[2848.42 --> 2855.42] It will be on the screen behind me the first time we go through, but then you will be left with it in your hands. -[2855.42 --> 2861.42] I'm going to read from Jonah 3 as we begin. -[2861.42 --> 2866.42] Then the word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time. -[2866.42 --> 2872.42] Go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim to it the message I give you. -[2872.42 --> 2877.42] Jonah obeyed the word of the Lord and went to Nineveh. -[2877.42 --> 2882.42] Now, Nineveh was a very large city. It took three days to go through it. -[2882.42 --> 2887.42] When Jonah began going a day's journey into the city, proclaiming, -[2887.42 --> 2892.42] For 40 days, 40 days more, and Nineveh will be overthrown. -[2892.42 --> 2895.42] The Nineveh believed God. -[2895.42 --> 2902.42] A fast was proclaimed, and all of them, from the greatest to the least, put on sackcloth. -[2902.42 --> 2910.42] When Jonah's warning reached the king of Nineveh, he rose from his throne, took off his royal robes, -[2910.42 --> 2916.42] covered himself with sackcloth, and sat down in the dust. -[2916.42 --> 2921.42] This is the proclamation he issued in Nineveh. -[2921.42 --> 2929.42] By the decree of the king and his nobles, do not let people or animals, herds or flocks, taste anything. -[2929.42 --> 2936.42] Do not let them eat or drink, but let people and animals be covered with sackcloth. -[2936.42 --> 2942.42] Let everyone call urgently on God. Let them give up their evil ways and their violence. -[2942.42 --> 2952.42] Who knows? God may yet relent with compassion, and with compassion turn from his fierce anger so that we will not perish. -[2952.42 --> 2958.42] When God saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, -[2958.42 --> 2964.42] he relented and did not bring on them the destruction that he had threatened. -[2964.42 --> 2976.42] This is the word of the Lord. -[2976.42 --> 2986.42] Now, I'm not as funny as Pastor Kevin, nor am I particularly committed to one hockey team over against another, -[2986.42 --> 2994.42] and I will forgive him for that, but he is talking with the youth right now about forgiveness. -[2994.42 --> 3005.42] And as Sarah alluded to earlier in our service, the text that we are going to read is about repentance, an important aspect of forgiveness. -[3005.42 --> 3013.42] And part of repentance is how we say, I'm sorry. -[3013.42 --> 3020.42] Now, some of us have gotten really good at saying, I'm sorry. -[3020.42 --> 3024.42] Most of us are husbands. -[3024.42 --> 3031.42] Now, I'm going to have to apologize after church to my wife for that comment. -[3031.42 --> 3041.42] Many of us have gotten really good at saying the words, I'm sorry, but not actually being repentant. -[3041.42 --> 3051.42] I heard a story this week from someone who I will leave their name out, but there was a situation that happened in their church, -[3051.42 --> 3062.42] and something, a situation occurred, some words were said, and this person left feeling really hurt by the words that were said. -[3062.42 --> 3065.42] That's never happened in our church, right? -[3065.42 --> 3070.42] Again, let's be honest, it has, right? We all struggle with this. -[3070.42 --> 3081.42] The person who said the offensive words found out that their words hurt someone, and they reached out, and they said, I'm sorry that you felt hurt. -[3081.42 --> 3083.42] Now, did you hear that? -[3083.42 --> 3086.42] Right? I'm sorry you felt hurt. -[3086.42 --> 3089.42] I'm not sorry I said something hurtful. -[3089.42 --> 3091.42] I'm sorry you felt hurt. -[3091.42 --> 3092.42] That's not a real apology. -[3092.42 --> 3095.42] That's not real repentance. -[3095.42 --> 3096.42] Right? -[3096.42 --> 3101.42] This, if you are a parent, and we'll come back to this, you know this, right? -[3101.42 --> 3104.42] You ask your kid to do something, they don't do it, and you say, come on! -[3104.42 --> 3106.42] And they go, I'm sorry. -[3106.42 --> 3110.42] And then they keep on not doing the thing you've asked them to do. -[3110.42 --> 3111.42] Right? -[3111.42 --> 3117.42] Repentance, real repentance requires a change. -[3117.42 --> 3136.42] Now, I believe, and what I hope we will see from Jonah 3, is that there is a parallel to our experience of repentance and forgiveness from God, and in relationship to God, and our living out repentance and forgiveness with each other. -[3136.42 --> 3144.42] And so what we see and experience from and with God becomes, for us, the model of experience for each other. -[3144.42 --> 3165.42] And so what I hope we will see this morning, our big idea, the theme that we're going to live under, is that only the word of God leads to genuine repentance that includes both saying, I'm sorry, and changing your actions and attitudes. -[3165.42 --> 3172.42] So we'll need the word of God, and then we'll need to say, I'm sorry, and then we'll need to do something about it. -[3172.42 --> 3178.42] That's Jonah 3. -[3178.42 --> 3185.42] Now, a reminder for those of you who weren't here or are new to this story. -[3185.42 --> 3195.42] A giant storm had risen up after Jonah had been called by God to go, and he fled and got on a ship and sailed to Tarshish. -[3195.42 --> 3206.42] A giant storm had come up, and Jonah was thrown overboard by the mariners, and he spent three days and three nights inside of a great fish. -[3206.42 --> 3215.42] After that, after he's spit out on the dry land, and this is what Josh looked at last week, that time in the fish and his prayer. -[3215.42 --> 3225.42] After that, Jonah hears again the call from the Lord to go to Nineveh, Israel's sworn enemy, and to preach to them. -[3225.42 --> 3234.42] In verse 2, the call is very similar to the one that was spoken in chapter 1. -[3234.42 --> 3240.42] In chapter 1, if you flip your page over, you can see God says to Jonah, -[3240.42 --> 3247.08] Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it because its wickedness has come up before me. -[3247.84 --> 3250.42] But in chapter 3, God says, -[3251.42 --> 3257.30] Go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim to it the message I give you. -[3257.30 --> 3260.06] Now, those differences are important. -[3260.88 --> 3266.88] The explicit reference to the wickedness of Nineveh has been dropped. -[3268.22 --> 3273.58] And I suggest that's probably in light of the overt disobedience of Jonah. -[3274.72 --> 3282.80] Jonah's wickedness is now on par and being highlighted for us more than that of the Ninevites. -[3282.80 --> 3296.04] Because remember, part of the contrast that's being shown in this book is about how people outside of Israel are also going to receive God's mercy. -[3296.98 --> 3303.14] We put it this way before, that God's choosing is bigger than Jonah's preferences. -[3303.14 --> 3325.30] Now, in this call, it seems like Jonah has less and less freedom or less and less trust from God in the particulars of the message that he is to proclaim. -[3325.60 --> 3325.74] Right? -[3325.74 --> 3330.98] In the first chapter, he's told to preach against the wickedness. -[3331.08 --> 3337.42] And then in the third, where we read, he's told to proclaim the message that the Lord gives him. -[3338.74 --> 3340.22] Now, this is really our foundation. -[3340.36 --> 3342.84] So, I'm going to just make three points on this. -[3343.84 --> 3345.32] I want you to hear that. -[3345.70 --> 3350.62] First, God knows Jonah's heart. -[3350.62 --> 3351.62] Right? -[3351.62 --> 3352.62] Right? -[3352.70 --> 3357.12] God knows and can see into the depths of Jonah's being. -[3357.88 --> 3364.52] And he knows that left to himself, Jonah probably isn't going to go into Nineveh and speak a word of mercy. -[3366.00 --> 3366.60] Right? -[3366.66 --> 3370.58] Or the intent behind what Jonah says isn't going to be repentance. -[3371.22 --> 3372.94] He's hoping for their destruction. -[3372.94 --> 3381.08] God knows Jonah's heart, but God wants his own heart, God's own heart, to be revealed. -[3382.40 --> 3382.52] Right? -[3382.58 --> 3392.50] And the point of this message to the Ninevites, right, is to show that God is slow to anger and abounding in love. -[3392.58 --> 3394.84] That God is gracious and compassionate. -[3394.84 --> 3399.52] The message of Jonah is that God will have mercy on whom he has mercy. -[3399.52 --> 3403.22] And Jonah doesn't like that message. -[3403.88 --> 3405.88] At least, not for his enemies. -[3406.52 --> 3406.62] Right? -[3406.70 --> 3409.16] Jonah would prefer calamity and destruction. -[3410.18 --> 3411.98] But that's exactly the point. -[3413.04 --> 3413.14] Right? -[3413.24 --> 3416.36] God's mercy is granted to his enemies. -[3416.80 --> 3423.20] And Jonah may not like it, but like Josh said so perfectly last week, he needs that same message. -[3423.68 --> 3428.36] Jonah needs that same message because he, like all of us, apart from God's intervening, -[3428.36 --> 3432.62] has a natural tendency, the catechism says, to hate God and to hate neighbor. -[3433.26 --> 3433.38] Right? -[3433.42 --> 3436.62] In his heart, Jonah is an enemy of God. -[3437.20 --> 3438.64] And we too, right? -[3438.68 --> 3440.24] We need this message. -[3441.42 --> 3443.92] Romans 5, verse 10 says, -[3443.92 --> 3450.56] For if, while we were God's enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his son, -[3450.56 --> 3456.62] how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life? -[3457.96 --> 3460.08] God's mercy is for his enemies. -[3460.74 --> 3463.32] That's what's so amazing about grace. -[3463.68 --> 3463.80] Right? -[3463.84 --> 3468.16] That grace and mercy, they take an enemy and they make it a friend. -[3469.44 --> 3473.78] Grace and mercy takes an enemy and makes it a brother or a sister. -[3473.78 --> 3481.80] Grace from God, mercy from God, takes an enemy and makes it an heir of God and co-heirs with Christ. -[3481.92 --> 3484.34] And we all need that message. -[3486.20 --> 3490.44] That's something worth worshiping over. -[3490.56 --> 3494.92] That's something worth celebrating as we hear and receive from God. -[3494.92 --> 3501.72] And God wants to make sure that that is what's going on in Jonah's proclamation. -[3502.30 --> 3505.20] The second thing, then, on this point, -[3506.54 --> 3511.64] is that God wants us to see the power of his word. -[3512.54 --> 3513.56] God says to Jonah, -[3513.98 --> 3518.14] Go and proclaim the message I give you. -[3519.00 --> 3521.54] And then immediately in the next verse, it says, -[3521.96 --> 3524.54] Jonah obeyed the word of the Lord. -[3524.92 --> 3528.26] And then in verse 5, if your Bibles are open, you can see it. -[3528.32 --> 3528.82] It says, -[3529.10 --> 3531.40] The Ninevites believed God. -[3533.46 --> 3542.04] God is working and active in the world through his word. -[3543.26 --> 3547.56] The cause of repentance is God's word. -[3547.78 --> 3552.00] And whether it concludes in repentance and God's mercy, -[3552.00 --> 3554.96] or it concludes, like in some other cases, -[3555.40 --> 3557.40] in obstinance and God's judgment, -[3557.84 --> 3561.24] what we see is that God's word is effective. -[3563.08 --> 3566.44] One of my favorite passages in all of Scripture is Isaiah 55. -[3567.32 --> 3570.14] The last couple verses in Isaiah 55, -[3570.14 --> 3571.54] verse 10 and 11, they say, -[3571.54 --> 3575.40] As the rain and the snow come down from heaven -[3575.40 --> 3578.28] and do not return to it without watering the earth -[3578.28 --> 3581.52] and making it bud and flourish so that it yields seed for the sower -[3581.52 --> 3582.54] and bread for the eater, -[3583.16 --> 3586.86] so is my word that goes out from my mouth. -[3587.32 --> 3588.96] It will not return to me empty, -[3589.32 --> 3591.92] but will accomplish what I desire -[3591.92 --> 3595.80] and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. -[3596.96 --> 3600.20] God's word is living and active. -[3600.76 --> 3603.40] God's word is his revelation of himself. -[3603.90 --> 3606.48] And by the working of the Holy Spirit in you, -[3606.62 --> 3610.36] God uses his word to accomplish his will, -[3610.52 --> 3612.58] to accomplish what he desires, -[3612.76 --> 3616.58] to achieve the purposes for which he sends it out. -[3616.58 --> 3620.42] And that purpose may be the forgiving of sins, -[3620.58 --> 3622.44] may be the repentance of nations, -[3622.62 --> 3626.14] or that purpose may be his word of judgment over them, -[3626.22 --> 3629.28] but his word is always effective. -[3633.80 --> 3637.38] People will often ask me questions -[3637.38 --> 3640.26] and they'll talk to me about, you know, -[3640.30 --> 3642.26] conversations that they have with their friends -[3642.26 --> 3643.54] or their co-workers, -[3643.54 --> 3646.50] and like in missional sort of settings. -[3646.58 --> 3646.86] Right? -[3646.92 --> 3648.86] In evangelistic kind of settings. -[3648.98 --> 3651.76] Like, what if I don't have the right words? -[3651.94 --> 3653.16] What am I supposed to say? -[3654.16 --> 3655.20] To which I just want to say, -[3655.80 --> 3656.16] Scripture! -[3657.42 --> 3659.64] Like you have God's word in front of you. -[3659.74 --> 3660.66] Open God's word. -[3661.04 --> 3662.14] Read Scripture together. -[3662.82 --> 3663.00] Right? -[3663.02 --> 3665.28] It's God's word that transforms hearts -[3665.28 --> 3666.72] and minds and lives. -[3666.90 --> 3667.86] It's God's gospel. -[3668.04 --> 3669.84] It's the proclamation of Jesus Christ -[3669.84 --> 3671.58] that turns hearts of stones -[3671.58 --> 3673.52] into hearts of flesh. -[3673.52 --> 3675.90] And so, preach the word in season -[3675.90 --> 3677.02] and out of season, -[3677.02 --> 3678.22] like Paul says to Timothy. -[3678.58 --> 3681.72] Always be prepared to preach the gospel. -[3682.70 --> 3684.16] And then as you are preaching, -[3684.40 --> 3687.14] remember that the word took on flesh. -[3688.30 --> 3688.44] Right? -[3688.46 --> 3690.26] That like Peter says to Jesus, -[3690.66 --> 3692.12] that you, Lord Jesus, -[3692.24 --> 3694.50] have the words of eternal life. -[3695.26 --> 3695.40] Right? -[3695.44 --> 3697.16] When we proclaim the word, -[3697.48 --> 3700.06] when we speak the word to people, -[3700.06 --> 3702.80] all we are doing is revealing Jesus. -[3704.14 --> 3705.44] All we are trying to do -[3705.44 --> 3707.96] is introduce people to Jesus. -[3709.14 --> 3711.46] In all your conversations then, -[3711.76 --> 3713.68] right, the word will be effective -[3713.68 --> 3717.72] when used to reveal God through Jesus. -[3719.40 --> 3722.02] And then one last thing on this point, -[3722.12 --> 3722.88] this same point here. -[3723.88 --> 3726.12] In order to preach the word, -[3726.12 --> 3729.66] you need to know the word. -[3732.20 --> 3735.92] If Jesus has the words of eternal life, -[3736.22 --> 3737.74] if Jesus is the word -[3737.74 --> 3739.74] that has taken on flesh, -[3739.84 --> 3741.16] if all of scripture, -[3741.70 --> 3742.98] the law and the prophets, -[3743.18 --> 3744.44] point to Jesus, -[3744.64 --> 3747.36] and our job is to reveal Jesus, -[3748.14 --> 3749.46] how much more then -[3749.46 --> 3752.04] should you and I be in the word? -[3752.04 --> 3754.96] And let me be clear, -[3755.06 --> 3756.82] I don't say this to guilt you -[3756.82 --> 3758.44] into reading the Bible more, -[3758.96 --> 3760.20] because that's not going to be effective. -[3760.40 --> 3762.50] Guilt doesn't motivate in that kind of way. -[3763.10 --> 3764.72] But what I hope happens -[3764.72 --> 3765.94] is that you are inspired -[3765.94 --> 3768.12] to read the Bible more. -[3769.10 --> 3771.14] Because if you read the Bible more, -[3771.22 --> 3772.76] your closeness to God -[3772.76 --> 3774.50] will just be magnified and grown. -[3775.22 --> 3776.86] If you read the Bible more, -[3776.94 --> 3778.86] your prayer life will be deepened -[3778.86 --> 3781.06] as you take on the words of scripture -[3781.06 --> 3782.60] in your own prayers. -[3784.02 --> 3784.22] Right? -[3784.26 --> 3785.76] If you read the Bible more, -[3785.86 --> 3787.98] your ability to talk to Jesus -[3787.98 --> 3789.16] with some confidence -[3789.16 --> 3790.52] and some conviction -[3790.52 --> 3791.52] will be heightened. -[3794.06 --> 3795.38] If you are right now -[3795.38 --> 3798.00] experiencing a crisis of faith, -[3798.08 --> 3799.16] if you are right now -[3799.16 --> 3801.18] struggling in the midst of doubt, -[3801.54 --> 3803.92] you don't need more Christian podcasts -[3803.92 --> 3805.48] or more Christian books. -[3805.68 --> 3807.02] You need more of the word. -[3808.50 --> 3809.68] And don't get me wrong, -[3809.78 --> 3810.78] Josh, I saw that face. -[3810.78 --> 3812.26] I love Christian podcasts. -[3813.22 --> 3814.90] And I love Christian books. -[3815.60 --> 3815.80] Right? -[3815.84 --> 3817.38] I listen to and I read a lot. -[3818.76 --> 3820.18] But what I need -[3820.18 --> 3821.66] in those moments of doubt -[3821.66 --> 3823.00] and of trial and of crisis, -[3823.42 --> 3824.56] in my heart of hearts, -[3824.64 --> 3826.08] what I need is more of Jesus. -[3827.08 --> 3828.42] And I find him -[3828.42 --> 3829.70] most clearly -[3829.70 --> 3831.80] on the pages of God's revelation -[3831.80 --> 3832.42] to the world. -[3833.30 --> 3834.58] Now all of those other things -[3834.58 --> 3835.66] are good supplements -[3835.66 --> 3837.32] to what needs to be -[3837.32 --> 3838.74] a diet filled -[3838.74 --> 3840.40] with the word of God. -[3842.48 --> 3842.92] Lastly, -[3843.12 --> 3844.64] on this first point, -[3844.70 --> 3845.18] number three, -[3845.88 --> 3846.76] from verse two -[3846.76 --> 3847.76] on the Lord -[3847.76 --> 3849.00] giving Jonah a message. -[3850.46 --> 3852.18] God gives Jonah a message. -[3854.28 --> 3855.70] Now have you ever had it, right, -[3855.76 --> 3857.18] where you're talking to someone, -[3857.26 --> 3858.78] you're in one of those conversations, -[3858.78 --> 3860.76] and they ask you a question -[3860.76 --> 3861.44] and somehow -[3861.44 --> 3863.20] you give them an answer -[3863.20 --> 3864.26] that you don't know -[3864.26 --> 3865.00] where it came from -[3865.00 --> 3866.10] and it's beautiful -[3866.10 --> 3867.08] and it's compelling -[3867.08 --> 3867.76] and -[3867.76 --> 3870.56] that's God -[3870.56 --> 3871.84] giving you the words. -[3871.94 --> 3872.44] That's God -[3872.44 --> 3873.26] being faithful -[3873.26 --> 3874.70] to his promise. -[3875.22 --> 3875.62] Right? -[3875.72 --> 3876.50] Jesus says -[3876.50 --> 3877.22] this same thing -[3877.22 --> 3877.98] to his disciples -[3877.98 --> 3879.14] in Luke 12. -[3879.30 --> 3879.68] He says, -[3879.68 --> 3881.30] when you are brought -[3881.30 --> 3882.54] before synagogues, -[3882.66 --> 3882.96] rulers, -[3883.24 --> 3883.92] and authorities, -[3884.36 --> 3885.00] or friends, -[3885.18 --> 3885.92] or colleagues, -[3886.10 --> 3886.84] or the like, -[3886.96 --> 3887.92] or your children, -[3888.08 --> 3888.80] or your parents, -[3888.90 --> 3889.76] whatever that is, -[3889.82 --> 3890.50] when you are brought -[3890.50 --> 3891.26] in front of people, -[3891.44 --> 3892.26] do not worry -[3892.26 --> 3892.94] about how you will -[3892.94 --> 3893.66] defend yourselves -[3893.66 --> 3894.58] or what you will say -[3894.58 --> 3896.24] for the Holy Spirit -[3896.24 --> 3897.04] will teach you -[3897.04 --> 3897.96] at that time -[3897.96 --> 3899.86] what you should say. -[3901.60 --> 3902.08] Now, -[3902.60 --> 3904.32] don't hear -[3904.32 --> 3905.10] what I'm not saying. -[3905.50 --> 3905.62] Right? -[3905.68 --> 3906.72] This doesn't give you -[3906.72 --> 3907.32] a license -[3907.32 --> 3908.82] to say whatever crazy -[3908.82 --> 3910.18] or ludicrous thing -[3910.18 --> 3911.50] comes to your mind -[3911.50 --> 3911.98] when you're having -[3911.98 --> 3912.54] conversations -[3912.54 --> 3913.74] with your friends. -[3914.54 --> 3915.46] That's how heresies -[3915.46 --> 3915.86] are born. -[3917.00 --> 3918.36] But if your life -[3918.36 --> 3919.24] is seasoned -[3919.24 --> 3921.22] with a well-fed -[3921.22 --> 3923.00] diet of the word, -[3923.10 --> 3923.78] if your heart -[3923.78 --> 3924.38] is open -[3924.38 --> 3925.26] to the spirit, -[3925.38 --> 3925.98] you will hear -[3925.98 --> 3926.58] God's voice -[3926.58 --> 3927.82] as he speaks to you -[3927.82 --> 3929.06] through his word -[3929.06 --> 3929.98] and he will -[3929.98 --> 3931.72] plant in your mind -[3931.72 --> 3932.46] that idea -[3932.46 --> 3933.38] that can grow -[3933.38 --> 3935.86] into his truth. -[3937.44 --> 3937.80] And that, -[3938.10 --> 3938.54] my friends, -[3938.54 --> 3940.32] is how you know -[3940.32 --> 3941.78] that what you say -[3941.78 --> 3942.72] is actually -[3942.72 --> 3944.06] from the Lord -[3944.06 --> 3945.68] because it's tested -[3945.68 --> 3946.82] against the Scriptures. -[3948.32 --> 3948.44] Right? -[3948.50 --> 3949.78] God will never -[3949.78 --> 3951.02] contradict himself. -[3952.22 --> 3952.90] He can't. -[3953.16 --> 3953.96] It is contrary -[3953.96 --> 3955.48] to his being -[3955.48 --> 3956.40] to do so. -[3957.10 --> 3957.46] And so, -[3957.52 --> 3958.58] his revelation -[3958.58 --> 3960.40] to another -[3960.40 --> 3961.68] through you -[3961.68 --> 3962.86] will always -[3962.86 --> 3964.32] be in line -[3964.32 --> 3965.64] with his revelation -[3965.64 --> 3966.94] through his word. -[3966.94 --> 3969.38] God doesn't -[3969.38 --> 3970.54] contradict himself. -[3971.72 --> 3972.72] And so, -[3972.86 --> 3974.14] as you speak, -[3975.14 --> 3976.18] be seasoned -[3976.18 --> 3977.02] with the word -[3977.02 --> 3977.82] so that you -[3977.82 --> 3978.62] don't turn God -[3978.62 --> 3979.56] into a contradiction. -[3983.28 --> 3984.54] We need -[3984.54 --> 3986.16] the word of God -[3986.16 --> 3987.26] as the ground -[3987.26 --> 3988.22] of our repentance. -[3988.46 --> 3989.62] That's the first step. -[3989.72 --> 3990.12] Let's go back -[3990.12 --> 3990.62] to the story. -[3992.22 --> 3993.10] Jonah hears -[3993.10 --> 3994.38] the call of God -[3994.38 --> 3995.68] and he obeys. -[3996.28 --> 3996.96] And we're told -[3996.96 --> 3998.12] that Nineveh -[3998.12 --> 3999.10] is a large city -[3999.10 --> 4000.58] taking some three days -[4000.58 --> 4001.36] to walk through it. -[4001.40 --> 4002.18] And then we're told -[4002.18 --> 4003.50] in verse 4, -[4004.28 --> 4005.00] Jonah began -[4005.00 --> 4005.58] by going -[4005.58 --> 4006.56] a day's journey -[4006.56 --> 4007.38] into the city -[4007.38 --> 4008.52] proclaiming. -[4009.84 --> 4011.12] What we're not told -[4011.12 --> 4011.96] is if he went -[4011.96 --> 4012.48] any further. -[4013.90 --> 4014.42] Right? -[4014.42 --> 4014.82] We don't know -[4014.82 --> 4015.42] how much -[4015.42 --> 4016.68] more he -[4016.68 --> 4017.36] proclaimed -[4017.36 --> 4018.30] that message -[4018.30 --> 4019.36] or how -[4019.36 --> 4020.26] comprehensive -[4020.26 --> 4021.02] he was. -[4021.22 --> 4021.68] We don't know -[4021.68 --> 4022.18] how hard -[4022.18 --> 4022.82] he tried -[4022.82 --> 4023.52] in his act -[4023.52 --> 4024.48] of obedience. -[4024.74 --> 4025.14] In fact, -[4025.86 --> 4026.72] what seems clear, -[4026.86 --> 4027.46] especially if you -[4027.46 --> 4028.38] read this -[4028.38 --> 4028.90] in the Hebrew -[4028.90 --> 4029.46] structure, -[4029.98 --> 4030.50] is that -[4030.50 --> 4031.66] Jonah's response, -[4031.82 --> 4032.38] his obedience, -[4032.38 --> 4033.12] is pretty -[4033.12 --> 4034.30] lackadaisical -[4034.30 --> 4035.14] and half-hearted. -[4036.18 --> 4036.64] Like, -[4036.66 --> 4037.20] he doesn't really -[4037.20 --> 4038.16] want to continue -[4038.16 --> 4039.44] his proclaiming. -[4039.96 --> 4040.56] The city -[4040.56 --> 4041.68] is large, -[4041.88 --> 4042.10] right? -[4042.12 --> 4042.48] It would take -[4042.48 --> 4043.30] three days to get -[4043.30 --> 4044.24] through, we are told, -[4044.42 --> 4045.72] and we only hear -[4045.72 --> 4046.92] Jonah going a third -[4046.92 --> 4047.66] of the way through. -[4049.02 --> 4049.72] His obedience -[4049.72 --> 4050.48] is minimal -[4050.48 --> 4051.60] and probably -[4051.60 --> 4052.42] begrudging. -[4053.86 --> 4054.58] And yet, -[4055.12 --> 4055.86] what does it say? -[4056.32 --> 4057.14] The Ninevites -[4057.14 --> 4059.02] believed God. -[4060.14 --> 4061.38] And their response -[4061.38 --> 4062.30] to the word of God -[4062.30 --> 4063.04] coming to them -[4063.04 --> 4064.20] is in direct -[4064.20 --> 4064.78] contrast -[4064.78 --> 4066.26] to Jonah's response. -[4067.02 --> 4067.56] Where Jonah -[4067.56 --> 4068.26] ran away -[4068.26 --> 4069.10] and then only -[4069.10 --> 4069.86] begrudgingly -[4069.86 --> 4070.30] obeyed, -[4070.38 --> 4071.04] the Ninevites -[4071.04 --> 4072.24] believed God -[4072.24 --> 4072.64] and then they -[4072.64 --> 4073.70] proclaim a fast -[4073.70 --> 4075.34] for all of them -[4075.34 --> 4076.00] from the greatest -[4076.00 --> 4076.86] to the least, -[4077.18 --> 4077.30] right? -[4077.30 --> 4078.58] They put on sackcloth. -[4078.94 --> 4079.92] They respond -[4079.92 --> 4080.76] with repentance. -[4081.50 --> 4082.58] They experience -[4082.58 --> 4083.62] what we can only -[4083.62 --> 4084.24] conclude -[4084.24 --> 4085.64] is genuine -[4085.64 --> 4086.50] sorrow -[4086.50 --> 4087.80] in hearing -[4087.80 --> 4088.64] the word of God. -[4089.10 --> 4089.88] And it's not just -[4089.88 --> 4090.26] the people -[4090.26 --> 4090.88] at the bottom, -[4092.18 --> 4092.40] right? -[4092.44 --> 4093.18] Not just the bottom -[4093.18 --> 4094.10] of the social hierarchy, -[4094.10 --> 4094.86] but it's all the way -[4094.86 --> 4095.52] up to the top. -[4095.66 --> 4096.32] Verse 6 says, -[4096.70 --> 4097.68] when Jonah's warning -[4097.68 --> 4098.72] reached the king -[4098.72 --> 4099.72] of Nineveh, -[4099.84 --> 4101.28] he rose from his throne, -[4101.42 --> 4102.54] took off his royal robes, -[4102.54 --> 4103.22] covered himself -[4103.22 --> 4103.94] with sackcloth, -[4104.14 --> 4105.08] and sat down -[4105.08 --> 4106.16] in the dust. -[4107.36 --> 4107.88] Now notice, -[4108.04 --> 4108.30] again, -[4108.42 --> 4108.56] there, -[4108.66 --> 4108.82] right, -[4109.24 --> 4111.08] that Jonah's warning -[4111.08 --> 4112.38] reached the king -[4112.38 --> 4112.88] of Nineveh. -[4113.28 --> 4114.22] It's very passive -[4114.22 --> 4115.20] on Jonah's part. -[4115.90 --> 4116.28] This, again, -[4116.40 --> 4117.28] speaks to the fact -[4117.28 --> 4119.26] that he's lacklustrally -[4119.26 --> 4121.08] living out his call. -[4121.18 --> 4121.76] His obedience -[4121.76 --> 4123.34] is only half-hearted. -[4123.48 --> 4124.40] He didn't get the message -[4124.40 --> 4124.96] to the king. -[4125.12 --> 4125.90] He didn't proclaim -[4125.90 --> 4126.72] the message to him. -[4126.94 --> 4127.76] His message only -[4127.76 --> 4128.66] reached the king. -[4129.48 --> 4130.40] But still, -[4130.88 --> 4131.98] the word of the Lord -[4131.98 --> 4133.32] is effective. -[4134.40 --> 4134.50] Right? -[4134.54 --> 4135.26] The king's heart -[4135.26 --> 4136.30] is transformed -[4136.30 --> 4137.58] by what he hears. -[4137.76 --> 4138.86] And he issues a decree -[4138.86 --> 4140.28] that not only he -[4140.28 --> 4140.98] or the people, -[4141.08 --> 4142.40] but even the animals, -[4142.84 --> 4143.00] right, -[4143.06 --> 4143.60] the herds -[4143.60 --> 4144.50] and the flocks -[4144.50 --> 4145.62] are called to fast. -[4145.72 --> 4147.24] This is very strange -[4147.24 --> 4148.48] in the rest of Scripture. -[4149.74 --> 4149.92] Right? -[4149.96 --> 4150.90] That all the people -[4150.90 --> 4152.02] and all the animals -[4152.02 --> 4153.42] are covered with sackcloth, -[4153.48 --> 4153.98] I think, -[4154.18 --> 4154.90] is to show -[4154.90 --> 4155.84] that this repentance -[4155.84 --> 4158.12] is utter and comprehensive. -[4158.64 --> 4160.00] It applies to everyone -[4160.00 --> 4161.40] that the whole city, -[4162.22 --> 4163.24] not just the people, -[4163.34 --> 4164.78] but even like the industry, -[4165.28 --> 4165.42] right, -[4165.46 --> 4166.30] even the things -[4166.30 --> 4167.02] that they do, -[4167.20 --> 4168.76] the whole city -[4168.76 --> 4171.06] is turning towards God. -[4173.66 --> 4175.72] This is what genuine sorrow -[4175.72 --> 4177.10] over sin -[4177.10 --> 4178.46] and genuine repentance -[4178.46 --> 4180.04] looks like. -[4180.66 --> 4182.16] Not only do you cry out -[4182.16 --> 4182.78] in forgiveness -[4182.78 --> 4184.24] and say, -[4184.40 --> 4184.92] I'm sorry, -[4185.76 --> 4186.74] but you turn away -[4186.74 --> 4187.38] from the sin. -[4188.84 --> 4189.88] The king's decree -[4189.88 --> 4192.26] said in verse 8, -[4192.46 --> 4193.56] let everyone call -[4193.56 --> 4194.66] urgently on God. -[4194.80 --> 4195.28] Cry out, -[4195.42 --> 4195.98] I'm sorry. -[4196.92 --> 4197.52] God's calling. -[4199.74 --> 4200.94] Let everyone call -[4200.94 --> 4202.08] urgently on God. -[4202.36 --> 4203.06] And then, -[4203.30 --> 4204.50] we respond, -[4205.16 --> 4205.88] let them give up -[4205.88 --> 4206.76] their evil ways -[4206.76 --> 4208.04] and their violence. -[4209.46 --> 4210.52] Genuine repentance -[4210.52 --> 4211.48] requires -[4211.48 --> 4212.82] that we ask -[4212.82 --> 4213.48] for forgiveness, -[4213.74 --> 4214.70] but also -[4214.70 --> 4216.00] that we turn away -[4216.00 --> 4216.74] from the thing -[4216.74 --> 4217.44] that we need -[4217.44 --> 4218.48] to be forgiven for. -[4218.68 --> 4219.92] And that turning away -[4219.92 --> 4220.66] is really -[4220.66 --> 4221.94] the hard part -[4221.94 --> 4222.76] of repentance. -[4224.64 --> 4225.86] But there's hope -[4225.86 --> 4227.02] for us -[4227.02 --> 4228.06] in this. -[4228.96 --> 4229.44] Verse 10, -[4230.02 --> 4231.40] when God saw -[4231.40 --> 4232.24] what they did -[4232.24 --> 4233.02] and how they turned -[4233.02 --> 4234.10] from their evil ways, -[4234.52 --> 4235.36] he relented. -[4237.36 --> 4238.90] God saw what they did -[4238.90 --> 4240.34] and how they turned -[4240.34 --> 4241.88] from their evil ways -[4241.88 --> 4243.46] and so he relented. -[4245.08 --> 4245.78] It's not -[4245.78 --> 4247.54] that their rituals -[4247.54 --> 4249.58] convinced God -[4249.58 --> 4250.74] to offer -[4250.74 --> 4251.78] his forgiveness, -[4252.28 --> 4254.10] but their ethical -[4254.10 --> 4255.00] transformation, -[4255.24 --> 4255.74] their change -[4255.74 --> 4256.70] of behavior, -[4257.50 --> 4257.76] right, -[4257.82 --> 4258.72] that caught his attention, -[4258.80 --> 4259.10] that showed -[4259.10 --> 4260.14] that it was real. -[4261.10 --> 4261.74] And that's where -[4261.74 --> 4262.70] the contrast -[4262.70 --> 4264.72] between Nineveh -[4264.72 --> 4265.76] and Jonah -[4265.76 --> 4267.10] is highlighted. -[4267.10 --> 4268.16] Right? -[4268.26 --> 4269.42] The Ninevites' -[4270.12 --> 4270.62] repentance -[4270.62 --> 4272.14] extends to -[4272.14 --> 4273.30] the attitudes -[4273.30 --> 4274.46] and actions -[4274.46 --> 4275.58] of all the people -[4275.58 --> 4276.50] from the bottom -[4276.50 --> 4277.28] to the top. -[4278.28 --> 4279.18] Jonah's repentance -[4279.18 --> 4280.38] is focused -[4280.38 --> 4282.00] on the rituals, -[4282.38 --> 4283.52] on the sacrifices -[4283.52 --> 4284.72] and the vows -[4284.72 --> 4286.06] that he will make. -[4286.14 --> 4286.68] We saw that -[4286.68 --> 4288.28] in chapter 2. -[4289.50 --> 4290.58] Genuine repentance -[4290.58 --> 4291.90] leads to -[4291.90 --> 4293.42] and requires -[4293.42 --> 4294.50] a change -[4294.50 --> 4295.08] of behavior. -[4295.08 --> 4295.60] behavior. -[4295.84 --> 4296.34] No amount -[4296.34 --> 4296.96] of saying -[4296.96 --> 4297.66] I'm sorry -[4297.66 --> 4298.24] or even -[4298.24 --> 4298.66] praying -[4298.66 --> 4299.16] the right -[4299.16 --> 4299.68] prayers -[4299.68 --> 4300.64] will do it. -[4300.74 --> 4301.06] You've got -[4301.06 --> 4301.46] to turn -[4301.46 --> 4301.94] away -[4301.94 --> 4302.72] from the -[4302.72 --> 4303.18] behavior. -[4304.80 --> 4305.50] And so, -[4305.68 --> 4306.44] we've made -[4306.44 --> 4307.16] this point already. -[4307.28 --> 4307.70] Let's say -[4307.70 --> 4308.14] that you're -[4308.14 --> 4308.82] a young kid, -[4309.66 --> 4309.90] right, -[4309.94 --> 4310.78] and your parents -[4310.78 --> 4311.52] ask you -[4311.52 --> 4311.98] to go -[4311.98 --> 4312.98] clean your room -[4312.98 --> 4314.48] and you say, -[4314.62 --> 4314.74] yeah, -[4314.78 --> 4315.02] mom, -[4315.24 --> 4316.32] I'll go do it. -[4317.28 --> 4318.18] An hour later, -[4318.28 --> 4319.16] dad checks in -[4319.16 --> 4320.04] and he says, -[4320.42 --> 4320.90] come on, -[4320.94 --> 4321.18] dude, -[4321.30 --> 4322.06] you said you'd -[4322.06 --> 4322.46] clean it. -[4322.46 --> 4323.76] It looks worse -[4323.76 --> 4324.52] than when you -[4324.52 --> 4324.94] went in here -[4324.94 --> 4325.58] an hour ago. -[4326.12 --> 4327.30] And then you say, -[4327.60 --> 4328.46] I'm sorry. -[4329.78 --> 4330.58] But you make -[4330.58 --> 4330.94] no move -[4330.94 --> 4331.62] to start cleaning. -[4333.30 --> 4334.58] In that moment, -[4335.14 --> 4335.82] your sorry -[4335.82 --> 4336.82] doesn't mean -[4336.82 --> 4337.36] a whole lot. -[4338.44 --> 4339.56] It's just words. -[4341.76 --> 4342.34] Now, -[4342.52 --> 4344.34] that's an easy -[4344.34 --> 4345.22] example, -[4345.42 --> 4345.78] but really, -[4345.88 --> 4346.82] we can zoom out -[4346.82 --> 4347.92] and we can apply -[4347.92 --> 4349.48] this to anything. -[4349.48 --> 4351.50] There are so -[4351.50 --> 4352.18] many circumstances -[4352.18 --> 4352.92] in your own life -[4352.92 --> 4353.40] and in your own -[4353.40 --> 4353.86] relationships -[4353.86 --> 4354.42] where you can be -[4354.42 --> 4354.62] like, -[4354.88 --> 4355.14] hmm, -[4355.38 --> 4356.18] I wonder -[4356.18 --> 4356.88] if I'm -[4356.88 --> 4357.36] genuinely -[4357.36 --> 4358.54] sorry. -[4359.94 --> 4360.66] And actually, -[4360.82 --> 4361.12] I'm going to -[4361.12 --> 4361.54] challenge you, -[4361.66 --> 4363.52] if you really -[4363.52 --> 4364.04] wonder -[4364.04 --> 4364.96] whether or not -[4364.96 --> 4365.68] your sorry -[4365.68 --> 4366.88] means anything, -[4367.84 --> 4368.82] ask the people -[4368.82 --> 4369.72] you say sorry -[4369.72 --> 4370.00] to. -[4371.64 --> 4372.48] I dare you. -[4374.08 --> 4374.94] Ask if they -[4374.94 --> 4375.96] feel like -[4375.96 --> 4376.82] your sorry -[4376.82 --> 4377.96] means something. -[4379.48 --> 4380.18] Now, -[4380.20 --> 4380.54] that might be -[4380.54 --> 4381.14] terrifying, -[4381.58 --> 4383.10] but if you're -[4383.10 --> 4383.72] willing to take -[4383.72 --> 4384.38] the risk, -[4384.74 --> 4385.52] you will find -[4385.52 --> 4386.76] out very quickly -[4386.76 --> 4388.94] if people -[4388.94 --> 4389.92] experience -[4389.92 --> 4391.10] your apologies, -[4391.58 --> 4392.44] your sorry, -[4392.84 --> 4393.66] as connected -[4393.66 --> 4394.64] to genuine -[4394.64 --> 4395.60] repentance, -[4396.78 --> 4397.52] that it's connected -[4397.52 --> 4398.26] to a genuine -[4398.26 --> 4399.90] change of behavior. -[4401.32 --> 4402.38] But again, -[4402.64 --> 4403.92] there's good news -[4403.92 --> 4404.64] for us -[4404.64 --> 4405.40] here. -[4406.32 --> 4406.80] Verse 10 -[4406.80 --> 4407.34] continues, -[4407.34 --> 4408.46] that when God -[4408.46 --> 4409.74] saw what they -[4409.74 --> 4410.48] did and how -[4410.48 --> 4411.12] they turned -[4411.12 --> 4411.66] from their -[4411.66 --> 4412.42] evil ways, -[4412.78 --> 4413.52] God relented -[4413.52 --> 4414.62] and did not -[4414.62 --> 4415.52] bring on them -[4415.52 --> 4416.30] the destruction -[4416.30 --> 4417.56] he had -[4417.56 --> 4418.22] threatened. -[4419.38 --> 4420.40] God relented -[4420.40 --> 4421.40] and did not -[4421.40 --> 4421.98] bring on them -[4421.98 --> 4422.64] the destruction -[4422.64 --> 4423.82] that he had -[4423.82 --> 4424.12] threatened. -[4425.26 --> 4426.06] This is an -[4426.06 --> 4427.00] amazing parallel. -[4427.76 --> 4429.04] In Exodus 32, -[4429.94 --> 4430.88] you read a story -[4430.88 --> 4431.88] about the Israelites. -[4432.06 --> 4432.84] They have come -[4432.84 --> 4433.44] out of Egypt, -[4433.96 --> 4435.06] they have crossed -[4435.06 --> 4435.74] the Red Sea, -[4435.74 --> 4436.34] they have come -[4436.34 --> 4437.38] to Mount Sinai, -[4437.54 --> 4438.70] Moses has gone -[4438.70 --> 4439.56] up and he spent -[4439.56 --> 4441.36] 40 days with God, -[4441.42 --> 4442.04] he has received -[4442.04 --> 4442.90] the Ten Commandments -[4442.90 --> 4443.54] and while Moses -[4443.54 --> 4444.16] is up there, -[4444.50 --> 4444.98] the Israelites -[4444.98 --> 4445.98] make a golden -[4445.98 --> 4446.64] calf. -[4447.38 --> 4448.32] They make an idol -[4448.32 --> 4448.94] for themselves -[4448.94 --> 4449.96] and they worship. -[4450.40 --> 4451.40] Moses comes down -[4451.40 --> 4452.28] and he sees that -[4452.28 --> 4453.00] and he smashes -[4453.00 --> 4453.62] the tablets -[4453.62 --> 4455.26] and God promises -[4455.26 --> 4456.36] to destroy -[4456.36 --> 4457.08] the Israelites. -[4457.62 --> 4458.04] So Moses, -[4458.22 --> 4459.00] back up the mountain, -[4459.14 --> 4459.72] he goes and he -[4459.72 --> 4461.12] intercedes on behalf -[4461.12 --> 4462.28] of the Israelites -[4462.28 --> 4462.54] saying, -[4462.66 --> 4463.24] please Lord, -[4463.50 --> 4464.02] what would the -[4464.02 --> 4464.74] Egyptians think -[4464.74 --> 4465.42] if you killed them? -[4465.52 --> 4466.40] Moses goes up -[4466.40 --> 4467.74] and in Exodus 32, -[4467.98 --> 4468.56] verse 14, -[4468.64 --> 4469.14] and we'll see it -[4469.14 --> 4469.56] on the screen -[4469.56 --> 4470.48] in contrast, -[4471.14 --> 4471.64] it says, -[4472.60 --> 4473.66] the Lord relented -[4473.66 --> 4475.08] and did not bring -[4475.08 --> 4475.84] on his people -[4475.84 --> 4476.64] the destruction -[4476.64 --> 4478.38] he had threatened. -[4481.26 --> 4482.22] You better believe -[4482.22 --> 4482.66] that the author -[4482.66 --> 4483.14] of Jonah -[4483.14 --> 4484.78] has in mind -[4484.78 --> 4485.76] the author -[4485.76 --> 4486.68] of Exodus 32 -[4486.68 --> 4487.68] when he says this. -[4488.44 --> 4489.84] The almost exact -[4489.84 --> 4490.70] similarity -[4490.70 --> 4492.48] between these two texts -[4492.48 --> 4493.68] shows to us, -[4493.76 --> 4494.72] reminds us again, -[4494.74 --> 4496.46] that Yahweh's mercy -[4496.46 --> 4497.98] is not exclusively -[4497.98 --> 4499.54] for Israel. -[4501.10 --> 4501.76] One person -[4501.76 --> 4502.58] that I read this week -[4502.58 --> 4503.24] put it this way, -[4503.94 --> 4504.34] he said, -[4504.78 --> 4505.46] God's special -[4505.46 --> 4506.08] relationship -[4506.08 --> 4506.82] with Israel -[4506.82 --> 4507.98] is not an end -[4507.98 --> 4508.86] in and of itself, -[4509.16 --> 4509.98] but a means -[4509.98 --> 4510.76] to an end, -[4511.08 --> 4511.76] the blessing -[4511.76 --> 4513.10] of nations. -[4514.18 --> 4514.68] And if you want, -[4514.74 --> 4515.12] you can go -[4515.12 --> 4515.52] and read -[4515.52 --> 4516.54] Genesis 12, -[4517.02 --> 4518.18] really only the -[4518.18 --> 4518.78] first three verses -[4518.78 --> 4519.30] and you will see -[4519.30 --> 4520.32] this point made. -[4520.32 --> 4522.14] And now, -[4522.90 --> 4524.40] the same continues -[4524.40 --> 4525.30] to be true -[4525.30 --> 4526.22] for you -[4526.22 --> 4526.94] and for me. -[4528.34 --> 4529.28] If we know -[4529.28 --> 4530.28] God's mercy, -[4530.96 --> 4531.90] we should show -[4531.90 --> 4532.68] God's mercy. -[4534.18 --> 4535.52] Jesus taught us -[4535.52 --> 4536.16] to pray, -[4536.56 --> 4536.76] saying, -[4536.92 --> 4538.66] forgive our sins -[4538.66 --> 4539.72] as we forgive -[4539.72 --> 4540.82] those who sin -[4540.82 --> 4541.50] against us. -[4541.66 --> 4542.90] If you are forgiven -[4542.90 --> 4543.74] by God, -[4543.98 --> 4544.86] it's so that you -[4544.86 --> 4545.44] will forgive -[4545.44 --> 4546.60] others around you. -[4546.60 --> 4548.62] over and over -[4548.62 --> 4549.54] and over again, -[4549.66 --> 4550.38] you can see -[4550.38 --> 4551.18] in the Bible -[4551.18 --> 4551.88] that this point -[4551.88 --> 4552.70] is being made, -[4552.76 --> 4553.70] that if you know -[4553.70 --> 4554.78] God's love, -[4554.96 --> 4555.94] if you are changed -[4555.94 --> 4557.04] by God's love, -[4557.18 --> 4558.12] then that love -[4558.12 --> 4559.54] needs to change you. -[4561.08 --> 4561.84] Every night, -[4561.96 --> 4563.06] I pray with my kids -[4563.06 --> 4563.80] when they are in bed, -[4564.48 --> 4565.18] and we pray, -[4565.60 --> 4565.86] God, -[4566.02 --> 4567.04] help us know -[4567.04 --> 4568.80] your love more -[4568.80 --> 4569.64] and help us -[4569.64 --> 4570.36] to live -[4570.36 --> 4571.62] that love -[4571.62 --> 4572.38] tomorrow. -[4573.80 --> 4574.60] When you are -[4574.60 --> 4576.00] in God's love, -[4576.60 --> 4577.84] you should love -[4577.84 --> 4579.80] like God loves. -[4581.24 --> 4581.52] And so, -[4581.58 --> 4582.54] the Christian church -[4582.54 --> 4583.76] should pursue -[4583.76 --> 4585.40] justice for others -[4585.40 --> 4587.10] even when she -[4587.10 --> 4588.54] receives injustice -[4588.54 --> 4589.86] from others. -[4591.06 --> 4592.14] The Christian church -[4592.14 --> 4592.80] doesn't need -[4592.80 --> 4593.32] the mercy -[4593.32 --> 4594.16] and the goodwill -[4594.16 --> 4595.00] of the state -[4595.00 --> 4596.24] or of the culture, -[4596.44 --> 4597.60] but we should -[4597.60 --> 4598.90] show mercy -[4598.90 --> 4600.02] and goodwill -[4600.02 --> 4600.98] to all that we meet. -[4604.12 --> 4604.90] Let me give you -[4604.90 --> 4605.46] an example. -[4605.46 --> 4607.16] This is an old one. -[4607.26 --> 4608.68] It's from the 4th century. -[4609.64 --> 4610.48] In the 4th century, -[4610.58 --> 4611.34] there was a plague -[4611.34 --> 4612.76] that rolled through -[4612.76 --> 4614.10] parts of the -[4614.10 --> 4615.36] Roman Empire. -[4616.60 --> 4617.54] Many of the wealthy -[4617.54 --> 4619.12] and free citizens -[4619.12 --> 4620.94] fled from the cities -[4620.94 --> 4622.46] to their country homes, -[4622.52 --> 4624.76] to the less populated areas, -[4624.90 --> 4625.76] because the plague -[4625.76 --> 4626.78] wasn't spreading as quickly -[4626.78 --> 4627.62] in those regions, -[4627.96 --> 4628.34] obviously. -[4629.48 --> 4629.62] Now, -[4629.68 --> 4630.42] Eusebius, -[4630.58 --> 4631.62] who's a Christian -[4631.62 --> 4632.62] historian -[4632.62 --> 4633.60] from that time, -[4634.38 --> 4636.12] he would go on -[4636.12 --> 4637.36] to become a leader -[4637.36 --> 4638.30] in the Christian church, -[4639.18 --> 4640.70] he notes that there -[4640.70 --> 4642.04] is one group of people -[4642.04 --> 4643.14] that stayed behind. -[4644.60 --> 4645.20] Christians. -[4646.36 --> 4647.62] He even writes -[4647.62 --> 4649.40] that even as Christians -[4649.40 --> 4650.36] were being persecuted -[4650.36 --> 4651.00] and killed -[4651.00 --> 4651.70] for their beliefs, -[4651.86 --> 4653.28] Christians were being told -[4653.28 --> 4654.94] to offer sacrifices -[4654.94 --> 4655.68] to idols -[4655.68 --> 4657.46] and to offer sacrifices -[4657.46 --> 4658.22] to the emperor. -[4658.22 --> 4659.14] they were being told -[4659.14 --> 4661.24] by way of identifying them -[4661.24 --> 4662.98] to deny the name of Jesus, -[4663.16 --> 4664.02] and if they didn't, -[4664.28 --> 4665.20] then they would be killed. -[4665.66 --> 4667.30] Even as this is happening, -[4667.66 --> 4668.58] Eusebius writes, -[4668.84 --> 4669.80] and you'll see this on screen, -[4670.24 --> 4670.78] for they, -[4671.14 --> 4671.60] Christians, -[4672.14 --> 4673.30] alone in the face -[4673.30 --> 4674.10] of such ills, -[4674.36 --> 4675.50] showed their sympathy -[4675.50 --> 4676.58] and humanity -[4676.58 --> 4677.58] every day. -[4678.24 --> 4679.60] They cared for -[4679.60 --> 4680.80] and buried the dead, -[4681.28 --> 4681.80] for there were -[4681.80 --> 4682.58] countless numbers -[4682.58 --> 4683.30] who had no one -[4683.30 --> 4683.98] to care for them. -[4684.60 --> 4685.42] Others gathered -[4685.42 --> 4686.62] all the sick together -[4686.62 --> 4687.60] from the whole city -[4687.60 --> 4688.34] and fed them. -[4689.00 --> 4689.70] And by this, -[4689.84 --> 4690.70] everyone heard -[4690.70 --> 4691.46] about their good -[4691.46 --> 4692.64] and glorified -[4692.64 --> 4693.26] the God -[4693.26 --> 4694.24] of the Christians. -[4696.50 --> 4697.98] A little while later, -[4698.48 --> 4699.48] Emperor Julian, -[4699.78 --> 4700.98] who's known to history -[4700.98 --> 4703.04] as Julian the Apostate, -[4703.12 --> 4703.96] he's the last -[4703.96 --> 4704.98] pagan emperor -[4704.98 --> 4706.26] in this time, -[4706.62 --> 4707.78] he's writing a letter -[4707.78 --> 4708.56] to one of the -[4708.56 --> 4709.36] high priests -[4709.36 --> 4710.28] of Galatia, -[4710.62 --> 4711.68] a pagan priest, -[4711.78 --> 4712.72] he writes in his letter, -[4713.52 --> 4715.20] it is disgraceful -[4715.20 --> 4716.40] that the impious -[4716.40 --> 4717.26] Galileans, -[4717.42 --> 4718.58] that's Julian's word -[4718.58 --> 4719.16] for Christians, -[4719.68 --> 4720.54] it is disgraceful -[4720.54 --> 4721.48] that the impious -[4721.48 --> 4723.00] Christians support -[4723.00 --> 4724.38] not their own poor -[4724.38 --> 4726.32] but ours as well. -[4727.72 --> 4728.66] He goes on to say -[4728.66 --> 4729.90] that pagan priests -[4729.90 --> 4731.00] should do the same -[4731.00 --> 4732.02] as these Christians. -[4733.30 --> 4734.80] If the pagan religion -[4734.80 --> 4735.50] ever hopes -[4735.50 --> 4736.84] to win popular approval -[4736.84 --> 4737.72] again and to do -[4737.72 --> 4738.90] what is right and good, -[4739.80 --> 4740.74] Julian says that -[4740.74 --> 4742.04] I believe we really -[4742.04 --> 4743.22] ought truly to practice -[4743.22 --> 4744.54] every one of these virtues. -[4744.54 --> 4744.68] Jews. -[4746.80 --> 4747.50] So here, -[4747.62 --> 4748.40] what was going on? -[4749.50 --> 4751.18] While the object -[4751.18 --> 4752.38] of injustice, -[4753.38 --> 4755.72] they risked death -[4755.72 --> 4756.98] for the justice -[4756.98 --> 4758.76] and the just treatment -[4758.76 --> 4759.70] of others. -[4762.28 --> 4763.64] While receiving -[4763.64 --> 4764.50] no mercy -[4764.50 --> 4765.72] from the emperor, -[4766.56 --> 4768.08] they lived mercifully -[4768.08 --> 4769.78] for those around them. -[4769.78 --> 4773.18] sometimes you hear -[4773.18 --> 4773.76] the phrase, -[4774.68 --> 4775.92] and this is becoming -[4775.92 --> 4777.04] increasingly more -[4777.04 --> 4777.62] resounding -[4777.62 --> 4779.92] in our post-Christian -[4779.92 --> 4780.74] world as Christians -[4780.74 --> 4781.38] are thinking through -[4781.38 --> 4782.06] how to respond. -[4782.18 --> 4782.68] Sometimes you hear -[4782.68 --> 4783.10] the phrase, -[4783.58 --> 4784.02] as Christians, -[4784.20 --> 4785.06] we are in the world -[4785.06 --> 4786.52] but not of the world. -[4787.58 --> 4788.54] And that's not wrong, -[4788.72 --> 4789.48] strictly speaking, -[4789.60 --> 4789.74] right? -[4789.78 --> 4790.64] The kinds of things -[4790.64 --> 4791.66] that the world celebrates, -[4791.80 --> 4792.36] we reject. -[4792.74 --> 4793.26] The sources -[4793.26 --> 4795.04] and purposes of power -[4795.04 --> 4795.86] that the world -[4795.86 --> 4796.60] holds up -[4796.60 --> 4797.34] are opposite -[4797.34 --> 4798.82] to the service -[4798.82 --> 4799.56] and sacrifice -[4799.56 --> 4800.68] that those of us -[4800.68 --> 4801.42] in the kingdom of Jesus -[4801.42 --> 4802.42] are called to live -[4802.42 --> 4803.70] out of and towards. -[4804.06 --> 4804.18] Right? -[4804.24 --> 4805.32] In the kingdom of God, -[4805.40 --> 4805.96] to be first, -[4806.04 --> 4806.84] you have to make yourself -[4806.84 --> 4807.48] last. -[4809.16 --> 4810.82] But it must also -[4810.82 --> 4811.58] be true -[4811.58 --> 4813.66] that Christians -[4813.66 --> 4815.62] are in the world -[4815.62 --> 4818.18] for the world. -[4818.18 --> 4822.42] this is our Father's world -[4822.42 --> 4823.24] and He has given us -[4823.24 --> 4824.58] charge over it -[4824.58 --> 4826.04] and true repentance -[4826.04 --> 4828.40] based on the Word of God -[4828.40 --> 4829.94] will change you -[4829.94 --> 4831.94] and a changed you -[4831.94 --> 4834.34] will change the world. -[4835.82 --> 4836.96] A changed you -[4836.96 --> 4838.34] will go out -[4838.34 --> 4839.80] into those places -[4839.80 --> 4840.72] of injustice -[4840.72 --> 4842.16] to bring justice, -[4842.32 --> 4843.20] into those places -[4843.20 --> 4844.54] that are lacking mercy -[4844.54 --> 4845.74] to be merciful. -[4846.06 --> 4847.12] A changed you -[4847.12 --> 4849.32] having seen -[4849.32 --> 4850.64] Jesus Christ, -[4851.00 --> 4851.94] the one who lived -[4851.94 --> 4853.22] the life I should have lived -[4853.22 --> 4854.20] and the one who died -[4854.20 --> 4855.86] the death that I deserve, -[4855.94 --> 4856.94] the one who bore -[4856.94 --> 4858.02] God's justice -[4858.02 --> 4858.98] for my sin -[4858.98 --> 4859.94] and somehow -[4859.94 --> 4860.86] in His grace -[4860.86 --> 4861.86] has called me -[4861.86 --> 4862.36] to Himself, -[4862.52 --> 4863.66] has adopted me -[4863.66 --> 4864.68] as a brother -[4864.68 --> 4865.96] and has made me -[4865.96 --> 4867.30] a child of God -[4867.30 --> 4867.86] in a new -[4867.86 --> 4869.02] and fantastic way. -[4869.38 --> 4871.28] If this is true -[4871.28 --> 4871.94] for you -[4871.94 --> 4872.96] in repentance, -[4873.60 --> 4874.70] your life -[4874.70 --> 4877.36] life is changed -[4877.36 --> 4878.52] forever. -[4881.52 --> 4883.14] True repentance -[4883.14 --> 4885.74] not only says -[4885.74 --> 4886.40] I'm sorry -[4886.40 --> 4888.12] but turns away -[4888.12 --> 4889.98] from the injustices -[4889.98 --> 4891.58] and the lack of mercy. -[4891.58 --> 4896.08] and in Jonah's day -[4896.08 --> 4899.18] the people of Israel -[4899.18 --> 4901.30] God's chosen people -[4901.30 --> 4903.66] were so hard of heart -[4903.66 --> 4904.96] that they needed -[4904.96 --> 4907.36] God's people's sworn enemy -[4907.36 --> 4909.62] to prove that this was true. -[4913.46 --> 4915.26] Don't be like the Israelites. -[4915.26 --> 4919.20] Don't need -[4919.20 --> 4921.58] this kind of -[4921.58 --> 4922.74] sworn enemy -[4922.74 --> 4924.70] to let God -[4924.70 --> 4926.60] soften your heart. -[4929.10 --> 4929.94] Instead, -[4931.14 --> 4931.92] imagine, -[4932.34 --> 4932.92] imagine -[4932.92 --> 4934.06] what the world -[4934.06 --> 4934.64] might say, -[4935.42 --> 4936.24] what the Julian, -[4936.52 --> 4937.64] the apostates -[4937.64 --> 4938.80] of the world today -[4938.80 --> 4939.70] might say -[4939.70 --> 4940.62] if this -[4940.62 --> 4941.70] is how Christians -[4941.70 --> 4942.80] lived. -[4942.80 --> 4945.38] that is our call -[4945.38 --> 4947.02] that on the word -[4947.02 --> 4947.42] of God -[4947.42 --> 4947.96] we might go -[4947.96 --> 4948.84] from this place -[4948.84 --> 4949.76] genuinely -[4949.76 --> 4951.44] repentant. -[4952.54 --> 4953.14] Father, -[4953.28 --> 4953.54] forgive -[4953.54 --> 4955.38] as I forgive. -[4955.86 --> 4956.16] Father, -[4956.24 --> 4956.84] have mercy -[4956.84 --> 4957.88] as I am -[4957.88 --> 4958.72] merciful. -[4959.90 --> 4960.22] Father, -[4960.38 --> 4961.24] send us -[4961.24 --> 4961.72] out -[4961.72 --> 4962.82] in the power -[4962.82 --> 4964.08] of your -[4964.08 --> 4965.02] holy name -[4965.02 --> 4966.10] with the power -[4966.10 --> 4967.20] of your -[4967.20 --> 4967.88] word -[4967.88 --> 4968.96] in the power -[4968.96 --> 4969.98] of your -[4969.98 --> 4971.04] Holy Spirit -[4971.04 --> 4971.92] to be -[4971.92 --> 4972.62] a people -[4972.62 --> 4973.52] for -[4973.52 --> 4974.48] your -[4974.48 --> 4975.50] world. -[4976.14 --> 4976.42] Amen? -[4977.56 --> 4978.50] Let's pray together. -[4982.04 --> 4982.84] Holy Father, -[4982.94 --> 4983.82] as we have said, -[4983.94 --> 4984.94] so we pray. -[4985.92 --> 4986.56] Send us out -[4986.56 --> 4987.52] now in the power -[4987.52 --> 4989.28] of your name. -[4989.42 --> 4989.96] Send us out -[4989.96 --> 4990.58] with the power -[4990.58 --> 4991.68] of your gospel message. -[4991.84 --> 4992.30] Send us out -[4992.30 --> 4992.86] in the power -[4992.86 --> 4993.84] of your Holy Spirit -[4993.84 --> 4994.98] to proclaim -[4994.98 --> 4996.10] true -[4996.10 --> 4996.98] repentance. -[4998.90 --> 4999.40] Change -[4999.40 --> 4999.84] our -[4999.84 --> 5000.66] lives. -[5000.66 --> 5002.28] help us -[5002.28 --> 5002.68] to know, -[5002.86 --> 5003.14] Lord God, -[5003.18 --> 5003.78] that all -[5003.78 --> 5005.00] we have -[5005.00 --> 5005.92] is -[5005.92 --> 5006.54] you. -[5007.66 --> 5008.40] But more -[5008.40 --> 5008.90] importantly, -[5009.04 --> 5009.62] help us to know -[5009.62 --> 5010.72] that all we need -[5010.72 --> 5011.88] is you. -[5013.36 --> 5014.14] All we have -[5014.14 --> 5014.64] is Christ -[5014.64 --> 5015.68] and so we sing -[5015.68 --> 5017.12] in his name -[5017.12 --> 5017.76] alone. -[5017.76 --> 5018.84] Amen. -[5018.84 --> 5020.10] God. -[5045.10 --> 5045.66] Hallelujah! -[5045.66 --> 5053.74] Hallelujah, all I have is Christ. -[5056.30 --> 5064.12] Hallelujah, Jesus is my life. -[5064.42 --> 5074.46] I once was lost in darkest night, yet thought I knew the way. -[5074.46 --> 5083.54] The sin that promised joy in life had led me to the grave. -[5083.78 --> 5092.60] I had no hope that you would own a rebel to your will. -[5092.90 --> 5101.54] And if you had not loved me first, I would refuse you still. -[5104.46 --> 5105.46] Amen. -[5105.46 --> 5106.46] Amen. -[5106.46 --> 5107.46] Amen. -[5107.46 --> 5108.46] Amen. -[5108.46 --> 5109.46] Amen. -[5109.46 --> 5139.46] -[5139.46 --> 5140.46] Amen. -[5140.46 --> 5146.42] All I have is Christ. -[5146.46 --> 5155.42] Hallelujah, all I have is Christ. -[5155.46 --> 5165.14] Hallelujah, Jesus is my life. -[5165.14 --> 5184.02] Now I would be yours alone, and live so all might see. The strength to follow your commands could never come from me. -[5184.02 --> 5201.78] Oh Father, use my ransom life in any way you choose, and let my song forever be, my only boast is you. -[5201.78 --> 5220.74] Hallelujah, all I have is Christ. Hallelujah, Jesus is my life. -[5220.74 --> 5238.72] Hallelujah, all I have is Christ. Hallelujah, Jesus is my life. -[5238.72 --> 5260.06] Hallelujah, all I have is Christ. Hallelujah, Jesus is my life. -[5260.06 --> 5261.06] Amen. -[5290.06 --> 5296.64] I believe following the blessing, they will also be up here to receive you in this space. -[5297.24 --> 5302.94] As you go, know that God goes with you, and so receive his blessing. -[5304.72 --> 5312.56] God, go before you to lead you. God, go behind you to protect you. God, go beneath you to support you. -[5312.96 --> 5317.82] God, go beside you to befriend you. Do not be afraid. -[5317.82 --> 5326.68] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5327.80 --> 5328.20] Amen. -[5347.82 --> 5365.58] These are the days of your servant Moses' righteousness being restored. -[5365.58 --> 5375.56] And those are the days of great trials, of famine and darkness and storm. -[5375.56 --> 5383.38] Still hear the voice of the desert crying, prepare ye the way of the Lord. -[5383.70 --> 5392.38] Behold, be come, riding on the clouds, shining like the sun, at the trumpet door. -[5393.04 --> 5397.10] Lift your voice, it's here to believe. -[5397.48 --> 5401.46] God of Zion still salvation comes. -[5401.46 --> 5431.44] God of Zion. -[5431.44 --> 5435.78] The fields are as white in the world. -[5436.10 --> 5440.40] And we are the laborers in your penure, -[5440.58 --> 5443.56] Declaring the word of the Lord. -[5443.92 --> 5448.20] Behold, he comes, riding on the clouds, -[5448.62 --> 5452.60] Shining like the sun, at the trumpet call. -[5452.60 --> 5457.00] So lift your voice, it's the year of jubilee. -[5457.00 --> 5461.60] And out of Zion's hill salvation comes. -[5461.90 --> 5466.16] Behold, he comes, riding on the clouds, -[5466.54 --> 5470.48] Shining like the sun, at the trumpet call. -[5471.10 --> 5474.66] So lift your voice, it's the year of jubilee. -[5474.66 --> 5479.70] And out of Zion's hill salvation comes. -[5487.00 --> 5489.82] There's no God like Jehovah. -[5489.82 --> 5492.00] There's no God like Jehovah. -[5492.00 --> 5503.38] There's no God like Jehovah. -[5504.38 --> 5508.66] Behold, he comes, riding on the clouds, -[5509.04 --> 5512.98] Shining like the sun, at the trumpet call. -[5513.54 --> 5517.00] So lift your voice, it's the year of jubilee. -[5517.00 --> 5521.90] And out of Zion's hill salvation comes. -[5522.16 --> 5526.38] Behold, he comes, riding on the clouds, -[5526.76 --> 5530.66] Shining like the sun, at the trumpet call. -[5530.66 --> 5534.76] So lift your voice, it's the year of jubilee. -[5535.42 --> 5539.66] And out of Zion's hill salvation comes. -[5539.66 --> 5544.66] Out of Zion's hill salvation comes. -[5547.00 --> 5550.10] And out of Zion. -[5550.88 --> 5552.10] And out of Zion's hill salvation comes. -[5552.10 --> 5552.88] That's after a New Orleansigh. -[5553.30 --> 5554.76] Some screams the way to Revelation. -[5554.76 --> 5555.32] Thank you. -[5563.78 --> 5563.94] vil энергии. -[5566.34 --> 5567.46] tem89 -[5567.82 --> 5567.90] Keep going to Jerusalem. -[5568.82 --> 5571.80] x -[5572.12 --> 5574.16] orange -[5574.16 --> 5604.14] Thank you. -[5604.16 --> 5634.14] Thank you. -[5634.16 --> 5664.14] Thank you. -[5664.16 --> 5694.14] Thank you. -[5694.16 --> 5724.14] Thank you. -[5724.16 --> 5754.14] Thank you. -[5754.16 --> 5784.14] Thank you. -[5784.16 --> 5814.14] Thank you. -[5814.16 --> 5844.14] Thank you. -[5844.16 --> 5874.14] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 8, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 8, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 212569a9dfd1f11792b580cd0111f08519abaa9e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 8, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,35 +0,0 @@ -• Praise and worship songs -• Acknowledging Mother's Day difficulties for some attendees -• Celebrating mothers and acknowledging strained relationships -• Focus on Jesus and the gospel as source of identity and confidence -• Invitation to experience God's presence in worship -• Introduction to pastor's class -• Introduction and welcome by Pastor Chris -• Thank you message for the worship conference attendees on Friday and Saturday -• Announcement about the need for chairs, with a goal of raising $20,000 -• Invitation to stand up in response to God's presence -• Scripture reading from 1 Timothy 1:2-7 -• Call to sing joyfully to the Lord -• The voice of heaven and love on earth -• Jesus as life in the darkness and truth in circumstances -• Breaking free from chains and living with faith -• Prayer for guidance and surrender to God's plan -• Need for compassion, forgiveness, and salvation -• Trust in God's power to save and conquer fear -• Reflections on God's majesty and ability to save -• Requests for purification of hearts and guidance -• Acknowledgement of dependence on God -• Seeking guidance and defense from God -• Importance of Jesus as a source of hope and righteousness -• Psalm 139 mentioned in relation to the unborn -• Introduction of a charity organization called Hope for Women -• Information about an upcoming Walk for Life event -• Prayer for seeing God high and lifted up, shining in glory -• Special celebration for mothers on Mother's Day -• Special things moms do for their children -• Hard lessons learned from mothers -• Importance of positive reinforcement and discipline -• Bible lesson on learning a hard lesson -• Sunday school discussion about mothers' role -• Church announcements (nomination for pastoral elder position) -• Congregational prayer \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - May 8, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - May 8, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index da1f52705f3b5b9cf5024e6eb2582f9273c2262c..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - May 8, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,433 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 7.42] Hallelujah, God above it all. -[7.54 --> 12.00] Hallelujah, God unshakable. -[12.26 --> 18.24] Hallelujah, you have done great things. -[21.58 --> 26.22] Hallelujah, God above it all. -[26.22 --> 30.22] Hallelujah, God unshakable. -[31.06 --> 36.30] Hallelujah, you have done great things. -[36.46 --> 39.46] You've done great things. -[40.06 --> 44.60] Oh, hero of heaven, you conquer the grave. -[44.78 --> 49.34] You free every captive and break every chain. -[49.34 --> 54.02] Oh, God, you have done great things. -[54.02 --> 58.72] We dance in your freedom, awaken to life. -[59.04 --> 63.38] Oh, Jesus, our Savior, your name lifted high. -[63.46 --> 68.02] Oh, God, you have done great things. -[69.36 --> 73.02] You have done great things. -[73.02 --> 78.02] Oh, God, you do great things. -[78.02 --> 99.58] Oh, God, you have done great things. -[99.58 --> 129.56] Thank you. -[129.58 --> 159.56] Thank you. -[159.58 --> 163.66] We wait for you to move again. -[166.66 --> 171.64] Here and now, make your presence known. -[171.64 --> 179.64] Let the darkness flee and the giants fall. -[179.64 --> 187.64] Let your kingdom come as we surrender all. -[190.68 --> 195.62] Here and now, make your presence known. -[195.62 --> 211.62] We want to see your kingdom come. -[211.62 --> 218.30] And move in power -[218.30 --> 223.88] Holy Spirit have your way -[223.88 --> 227.64] We want to see your kingdom come -[227.64 --> 243.74] We turn our eyes to see your face -[243.74 --> 251.82] Be lifted high upon our praise -[251.82 --> 259.62] Here and now, Jesus be in throne -[259.62 --> 266.62] King of heaven -[266.62 --> 272.10] You are welcome in this place -[272.10 --> 275.62] We want to see your kingdom come -[275.62 --> 282.32] Move in power -[282.32 --> 287.86] Holy Spirit have your way -[287.86 --> 291.62] We want to see your kingdom come -[291.62 --> 313.92] Jesus be enthroned -[313.92 --> 317.86] Jesus be enthroned -[317.86 --> 321.72] Jesus be enthroned -[321.72 --> 323.82] Let heaven come -[323.82 --> 330.10] Jesus be enthroned -[330.10 --> 333.84] Jesus be enthroned -[333.84 --> 337.66] Jesus be enthroned -[337.66 --> 339.80] Let heaven come -[339.80 --> 348.40] Oh, Jesus, be in throne, let heaven come -[348.40 --> 354.66] The King of heaven -[354.66 --> 360.08] You are welcome in this place -[360.08 --> 363.64] We want to see your kingdom come -[363.64 --> 370.28] And we're in power -[370.28 --> 375.88] Holy Spirit, have your way -[375.88 --> 379.68] We want to see your kingdom come -[379.68 --> 383.60] We want to see your kingdom come -[393.64 --> 423.62] We want to see your kingdom come -[423.64 --> 432.84] I love you, Lord -[432.84 --> 438.40] Oh, your mercy never fails me -[438.40 --> 444.88] All my days I've been held in your hands -[444.88 --> 449.76] From the moment that I wake up -[449.76 --> 453.08] Until I lay my head -[453.08 --> 459.22] I will sing of the goodness of God -[459.22 --> 466.56] All my life you have been faithful -[466.56 --> 475.42] And all my life you have been so, so good -[475.42 --> 480.48] With every breath that I am in -[480.48 --> 487.14] I will sing of the goodness of God -[487.14 --> 491.04] I love your voice -[491.04 --> 496.20] You have led me through the fire -[496.20 --> 499.54] In the darkest night -[500.24 --> 503.24] You are close, Lord, no other -[503.24 --> 507.28] I've known you as a father -[507.28 --> 511.04] I've known you as a friend -[511.04 --> 517.86] And I have lived in the goodness of God -[517.86 --> 523.02] And all my life you have been faithful -[523.02 --> 524.62] And all my life you have been faithful -[524.62 --> 533.94] And all my life you have been so, so good -[533.94 --> 538.92] With every breath that I am able -[538.92 --> 545.14] Oh, I receive of the goodness of God -[545.14 --> 562.48] Good morning. Welcome to church. -[562.60 --> 564.38] I want to start just by saying -[564.38 --> 566.40] Happy Mother's Day to those of you -[566.40 --> 568.30] whom are mothers. Hi, Mom. -[568.50 --> 570.24] Happy Mother's Day. I love you. -[571.24 --> 573.02] Also, we want to acknowledge that this day -[573.02 --> 574.16] can be hard for some of you -[574.16 --> 577.12] For those of you who have lost mothers recently -[577.12 --> 579.80] or who are longing to be a mom -[579.80 --> 582.32] and aren't able to for whatever reason -[582.32 --> 584.64] For those who have strained relationships -[584.64 --> 586.40] with your moms -[586.40 --> 588.56] We know that this day can be particularly hard -[588.56 --> 591.98] And so even as we remember and celebrate moms -[591.98 --> 593.82] we want to acknowledge that -[593.82 --> 596.78] we don't all experience this day in the same way -[596.78 --> 599.58] And so it's our hope that in worship today -[599.58 --> 601.94] we actually come to experience Jesus -[601.94 --> 604.50] and the truth of the gospel -[604.50 --> 606.30] and the identity that we are given -[606.30 --> 607.52] and granted in him -[607.52 --> 610.92] so that no matter what our other circumstances may be -[610.92 --> 612.62] we go in confidence -[612.62 --> 615.64] as sons and daughters of the King -[615.64 --> 617.84] That's when you say Amen -[617.84 --> 620.60] Okay, we'll work on that -[620.60 --> 623.96] Just a quick reminder -[623.96 --> 625.46] there is pastor's class -[625.46 --> 627.58] following our worship today -[627.58 --> 630.02] And so we will have a quick -[630.02 --> 631.10] grab a quick coffee -[631.10 --> 632.02] have a quick conversation -[632.02 --> 632.88] and then we'll head over -[632.88 --> 635.18] and continue in our pastor's class -[635.18 --> 639.42] And there is HCBC tonight -[639.42 --> 639.98] Thank you -[639.98 --> 641.26] For the youth -[641.26 --> 642.32] If you don't know what that is -[642.32 --> 643.54] you can talk to Pastor Kevin -[643.54 --> 644.18] He's right there -[644.18 --> 647.20] And I don't think I yet said -[647.20 --> 647.90] but my name is Chris -[647.90 --> 649.96] And I'm one of the pastors here -[649.96 --> 651.82] And I want to welcome you to worship -[651.82 --> 654.26] And then also I want to say -[654.26 --> 655.42] a special thank you -[655.42 --> 657.48] to all of those who came -[657.48 --> 658.64] on Friday and Saturday -[658.64 --> 659.72] to the worship conference -[659.72 --> 660.60] that we had here -[660.60 --> 661.34] and to the volunteers -[661.34 --> 663.20] who made that possible -[663.20 --> 664.68] It was a huge success -[664.68 --> 665.74] and a blessing for us -[665.74 --> 666.40] to be together -[666.40 --> 668.22] And so thank you for that -[668.22 --> 670.28] And we hope to do some of that again -[670.28 --> 672.04] Make your way slowly -[672.04 --> 672.46] I know -[672.46 --> 675.44] And then Leslie -[675.44 --> 676.90] is going to have an announcement too -[676.90 --> 692.06] So I just want to reiterate -[692.06 --> 694.10] that the worship conference -[694.10 --> 694.68] this weekend -[694.68 --> 696.22] was absolutely wonderful -[696.22 --> 697.82] It was so good to be here -[697.82 --> 699.88] But I got to tell you -[699.88 --> 701.38] I am so sore -[701.38 --> 702.80] from sitting on those chairs -[702.80 --> 704.28] all weekend -[704.28 --> 706.46] Like really sore -[706.46 --> 708.50] So just a reminder -[708.50 --> 709.84] Chairs and squares -[709.84 --> 711.20] We've got the squares -[711.20 --> 712.64] We still need the chairs -[712.64 --> 715.94] We need about $20,000 yet -[715.94 --> 717.52] to before we order them -[717.52 --> 719.34] This is your friendly reminder -[719.34 --> 722.44] Oh look she's healed -[722.44 --> 728.58] I'm going to invite you -[728.58 --> 729.46] as you are able -[729.46 --> 730.64] and where you are to stand -[730.64 --> 732.22] and we can be welcomed -[732.22 --> 734.16] into God's presence together -[734.16 --> 742.64] People of God -[742.64 --> 745.28] He gathers us to Himself -[745.28 --> 746.16] in worship -[746.16 --> 747.42] and so receive -[747.42 --> 748.50] His greeting -[748.50 --> 749.80] Grace -[749.80 --> 751.18] mercy -[751.18 --> 752.70] and peace to you -[752.70 --> 753.80] from God our Father -[753.80 --> 754.88] and the Lord Jesus Christ -[754.88 --> 755.48] His Son -[755.48 --> 756.56] and our Savior -[756.56 --> 757.68] through the presence -[757.68 --> 758.34] and power -[758.34 --> 759.64] of the Holy Spirit -[759.64 --> 760.92] Amen -[760.92 --> 779.66] Sing joyfully to the Lord -[779.66 --> 780.30] you righteous -[780.30 --> 782.66] It is fitting for the upright -[782.66 --> 783.52] to praise Him -[783.52 --> 785.96] Praise the Lord with harp -[785.96 --> 787.46] Make music to Him -[787.46 --> 789.16] on the ten-stringed lyre -[789.16 --> 790.78] Sing to Him -[790.78 --> 791.58] a new song -[791.58 --> 792.52] Play skillfully -[792.52 --> 794.70] and shout for joy -[794.70 --> 798.54] A joves' hair -[798.54 --> 798.70] in only one -[798.70 --> 800.06] Give it -[800.06 --> 800.78] And let's rest -[800.78 --> 802.18] to Lehr -[802.18 --> 803.10] the agencies -[803.10 --> 804.18] in the inf Ana -[804.18 --> 804.64] anddoms -[804.64 --> 805.16] Jesus -[805.16 --> 806.20] done with this -[806.20 --> 807.54] With the viens -[807.54 --> 807.96] of our generation -[807.96 --> 808.28] toö genius -[808.28 --> 809.38] and the day -[809.38 --> 809.46] to guard -[809.46 --> 809.48] to bear -[809.48 --> 810.48] to get -[810.48 --> 810.62] a new mindset -[810.62 --> 810.70] and the death -[810.70 --> 811.28] andən -[811.28 --> 811.46] the brain -[811.88 --> 812.38] and then -[812.38 --> 813.44] Jesus -[813.44 --> 814.32] came to heaven -[814.32 --> 814.92] And come to heaven -[814.92 --> 814.98] Jesus -[814.98 --> 816.46] And come to heaven -[816.46 --> 817.20] always -[817.20 --> 817.38] and Hisvana -[817.38 --> 817.70] Jehovah -[817.70 --> 818.82] Jesus -[818.82 --> 819.14] Jesus -[819.14 --> 820.72] Come to aber -[820.72 --> 821.64] for all -[821.64 --> 822.52] who are born -[822.52 --> 829.64] You are the voice of heaven and love on earth -[829.64 --> 834.90] Jesus, life in the darkness -[834.90 --> 839.58] Jesus, truth in the circumstance -[839.58 --> 846.90] You are the voice of heaven and love on earth -[846.90 --> 852.08] In history you live in life -[852.08 --> 857.38] You broke the chain, you broke the line -[857.38 --> 862.12] You are the Lord, living in us -[862.12 --> 866.58] You are the love, even in trust -[866.58 --> 873.82] You are the light, shining for all the world to see -[875.38 --> 879.82] You are the singer dear, mother of fear -[879.82 --> 884.82] I pray for you, calling us dear -[884.82 --> 891.86] Jesus, our Lord, living for all that will receive -[891.86 --> 896.86] Lord, we believe -[896.86 --> 908.16] Jesus, hope of our nations -[908.16 --> 912.86] Jesus, comfort and love for all -[912.86 --> 919.86] You are the voice of heaven and love on earth -[919.86 --> 925.90] Jesus, life in the darkness -[925.90 --> 930.86] Jesus, truth in the circumstance -[930.86 --> 937.86] You are the voice of heaven and love on earth -[937.86 --> 939.86] You are the voice of heaven and love on earth -[939.86 --> 942.90] In history you live in life -[942.90 --> 947.86] You broke the chains, you rose to life -[947.86 --> 954.86] You are the voice of heaven and love on earth -[954.86 --> 956.90] You are the love, you are the love, even in trust -[956.90 --> 960.86] You are the light, shining for all the world to see -[960.86 --> 965.86] Shining for all the world to see -[965.86 --> 969.66] New rose from the dead -[969.66 --> 972.02] Conquer in fear -[972.02 --> 974.34] Our Prince of Peace -[974.34 --> 976.60] Tolling us near -[976.60 --> 978.84] Jesus our home -[978.84 --> 984.80] Bearing for all the world to see -[984.80 --> 987.86] Lord we believe -[987.86 --> 992.32] Lord we believe -[992.32 --> 996.56] Lord we believe -[1017.86 --> 1028.90] Everyone needs compassion -[1028.90 --> 1032.14] A love that's never failing -[1032.14 --> 1037.40] Let mercy follow me -[1037.40 --> 1040.32] Everyone needs forgiveness -[1040.32 --> 1043.56] The kindness of the Savior -[1043.56 --> 1048.36] The hope of nation -[1048.36 --> 1055.20] Oh Savior -[1055.20 --> 1058.32] He can take a mountain -[1058.78 --> 1061.82] My God is mighty to save -[1061.82 --> 1064.32] He is mighty to save -[1064.84 --> 1066.48] Forever -[1066.48 --> 1069.12] The hope of salvation -[1069.12 --> 1072.94] He rose and conquered the grave -[1072.94 --> 1076.02] Jesus conquered the grave -[1076.02 --> 1091.14] So take me as you guide me -[1091.14 --> 1093.44] All my fears and plans -[1093.44 --> 1095.98] I will not be able to save -[1095.98 --> 1097.90] I will not be able to save -[1097.90 --> 1098.90] I will not be able to save -[1098.90 --> 1099.90] I will not be able to save -[1099.90 --> 1101.56] If I have to follow -[1101.56 --> 1104.90] Everything I believe in -[1104.90 --> 1107.90] Now I surrender -[1107.90 --> 1114.36] And I will not be able to save -[1114.36 --> 1115.44] Amen -[1115.44 --> 1118.36] He came to the mountains -[1118.36 --> 1121.80] My God is mighty to save -[1121.80 --> 1124.74] He is mighty to save -[1124.74 --> 1126.24] Forever -[1126.24 --> 1129.56] He is averaged -[1129.56 --> 1131.70] 鬼 from the Leach -[1131.70 --> 1131.72] And killed -[1131.72 --> 1145.30] Next -[1145.30 --> 1151.22] To him, shine the light and let the whole world see. -[1151.70 --> 1157.46] Receive for the glory of the risen King. -[1158.84 --> 1162.18] He came through the mountains. -[1162.72 --> 1165.46] My God is mighty to save. -[1165.76 --> 1168.46] He is mighty to save. -[1168.88 --> 1172.72] Forever, author of salvation. -[1172.72 --> 1176.36] He rose and conquered the grave. -[1176.56 --> 1179.82] Jesus conquered the grave. -[1180.20 --> 1184.04] Savior, he came through the mountains. -[1184.70 --> 1187.46] My God is mighty to save. -[1187.80 --> 1190.48] He is mighty to save. -[1190.90 --> 1194.68] Forever, author of salvation. -[1195.68 --> 1198.46] He rose and conquered the grave. -[1198.46 --> 1201.46] Jesus conquered the grave. -[1202.72 --> 1210.12] Search me, God, and know my heart. -[1211.02 --> 1213.78] Test me and know my anxious thoughts. -[1214.52 --> 1216.86] See if there is any offensive way in me. -[1217.56 --> 1219.60] And lead me in the way everlasting. -[1221.04 --> 1221.90] Should we bow our heads? -[1221.90 --> 1231.70] Father, we come to you knowing how easily our hearts can grow anxious. -[1232.40 --> 1235.78] How easily we can be distracted in the cultures that we live in. -[1237.02 --> 1240.92] We have allowed offensive ways to settle in our hearts. -[1241.92 --> 1243.84] We ask for your forgiveness, Lord. -[1243.84 --> 1250.58] Although we trip and fall in our walk with you, our hearts' desire is to please you. -[1251.46 --> 1252.44] To trust you. -[1253.16 --> 1255.84] To lay all we have before your feet. -[1257.74 --> 1261.38] Forgive us when our actions reveal the motivations of our hearts. -[1262.44 --> 1264.54] Lord, will you purify our hearts. -[1265.54 --> 1267.30] Lead us in your way everlasting. -[1268.36 --> 1270.38] Lord, how we need you. -[1270.38 --> 1271.78] Amen. -[1273.08 --> 1274.56] Shall we rise to sing a song? -[1274.56 --> 1304.54] Thank you. -[1304.56 --> 1328.56] I confess, bowing here, I find my rest. Without you, I fall apart. You're the one that guides my heart. -[1328.56 --> 1343.56] Lord, I need you. Oh, I need you. Every hour I need you. -[1343.56 --> 1355.56] I want defense, my righteousness. Oh God, how I need you. -[1355.56 --> 1357.56] I want defense, my righteousness. Oh God, how I need you. -[1357.56 --> 1371.56] Sin runs deep. Your grace is more. Where grace is found, is where you are. -[1371.56 --> 1383.56] Where you are, Lord, I am free. Holiness is Christ in me. -[1383.56 --> 1396.56] Where you are, Lord, I am free. Holiness is Christ in me. -[1396.56 --> 1411.56] Lord, I need you. Oh, I need you. Every hour I need you. -[1411.56 --> 1422.56] My one defense, my righteousness. Oh God, how I need you. -[1422.56 --> 1433.56] So teach my song to rise to you. When temptation comes my way. -[1433.56 --> 1443.56] When I cannot stand upon you. Jesus, you're my hope and sin. -[1443.56 --> 1456.56] When I cannot stand upon you. Jesus, you're my hope and sin. -[1456.56 --> 1458.56] Lord, I need you. Oh, I need you. -[1458.56 --> 1470.56] Lord, I need you. Oh, I need you. Every hour I need you. -[1470.56 --> 1481.56] My one defense, my righteousness. Oh God, how I need you. -[1481.56 --> 1508.56] Maybe you see this. -[1508.56 --> 1527.56] You're seated. -[1527.56 --> 1530.56] Morning, everyone. -[1530.56 --> 1533.56] Happy mothers. -[1533.56 --> 1537.56] And I didn't forget them today. -[1538.56 --> 1543.56] Thank you. -[1543.56 --> 1548.56] The first offering is for the Ministries and Budget of Emmanuel. -[1548.56 --> 1553.56] Second offering is for Advocate Life and Education Services, -[1553.56 --> 1557.56] also known as Hope for Women. -[1557.56 --> 1563.56] They provide pregnancy counseling and resources, postpartum support, -[1563.56 --> 1570.56] post-abortion care, and community education. -[1570.56 --> 1573.56] They also have an annual Walk for Life. -[1573.56 --> 1576.56] You can take the whole family and get people to sponsor you. -[1576.56 --> 1588.56] This year's Fraser Valley Walk is on Saturday, June 4th at Mill Lake Park in Abbotsford. -[1588.56 --> 1592.56] Psalm 139 for the Unborn. -[1592.56 --> 1602.56] Version 5 parditis section of the Unborn. -[1602.56 --> 1604.32] fearfully and wonderfully made. -[1605.16 --> 1608.98] Wonderful are your works, and my soul knows it very well. -[1609.82 --> 1613.34] My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in secret -[1613.34 --> 1617.40] and skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth. -[1618.16 --> 1620.92] Your eyes have seen my unformed substance, -[1621.64 --> 1626.62] and in your book were all written the days that were ordained for me, -[1627.52 --> 1629.72] when as yet there was not one of them. -[1629.72 --> 1633.02] Please give cheerfully. -[1659.72 --> 1689.72] -[1689.72 --> 1692.02] I come to see you. -[1693.02 --> 1698.06] I come to see you high and lifted up, -[1698.06 --> 1703.06] shining in the light of your glory. -[1703.06 --> 1707.56] Pour round to power and love, -[1708.36 --> 1712.36] as we sing holy, holy, holy. -[1712.36 --> 1720.54] Open the eyes of my heart, Lord. -[1721.28 --> 1724.84] Open the eyes of my heart. -[1725.28 --> 1728.36] I want to see you. -[1729.66 --> 1733.36] I want to see you. -[1733.36 --> 1740.36] I want to see you. -[1740.36 --> 1745.36] I want to see you. -[1745.36 --> 1747.36] I want to see you. -[1747.36 --> 1749.36] I want to see you. -[1749.36 --> 1752.36] I want to see you. -[1752.36 --> 1755.36] To see you high and lifted up, -[1755.36 --> 1759.36] shining in the light of your glory. -[1759.36 --> 1764.36] Shining in the light of your glory. -[1764.36 --> 1768.36] Pour round to power and love, -[1768.36 --> 1774.36] as we sing holy, holy, holy. -[1774.36 --> 1781.36] Holy, holy, holy, holy. -[1781.36 --> 1783.36] Holy, holy, holy. -[1783.36 --> 1785.36] Holy, holy, holy. -[1785.36 --> 1787.36] Holy, holy, holy. -[1787.36 --> 1789.36] I want to see you. -[1789.36 --> 1806.44] Holy, holy, holy. -[1806.50 --> 1810.02] Holy, holy, holy. -[1810.02 --> 1813.50] I want to see you. -[1819.36 --> 1832.08] Morning. Can I have all the kids age 5 to grade 4 come on up. You guys are already here. -[1838.08 --> 1843.66] Oh man. There are lots of you guys today. Come on in. -[1843.66 --> 1855.18] Okay. Nice to see you guys. So today's a special day. It's Mother's Day. Your mom is super. -[1857.18 --> 1867.22] Yeah? Oh boy. We won't repeat some of the ages coming around. Yeah. Special day, right? So it's a day we celebrate our moms. -[1867.22 --> 1873.88] We celebrate people who are like moms to us, like stepmoms and grandmas and other special caretakers. -[1874.30 --> 1878.94] And some of us, we remember our moms, right? Some of us, our moms have already passed on. -[1879.64 --> 1882.92] It's a very special day. Do you guys have special plans? Yeah? -[1888.36 --> 1892.98] Oh, heart cookies. Well, Santa's a little early. What are you doing? -[1892.98 --> 1905.32] Oh. Oh, perfect. Mom gets to do a few special things today too, right? She gets to call the shots. -[1905.80 --> 1911.20] Any other special events? What are some of the favorite things your mom does for you? -[1912.42 --> 1917.18] What are some special things your mom does to you? There's probably so many, you can't even list them all. -[1917.18 --> 1917.84] What do you think, I? -[1922.98 --> 1927.96] Oh, makes breakfast. What do you want to? -[1931.20 --> 1935.60] Oh, chocolate cereal, special cereal. What else? What did you want to say? -[1937.44 --> 1939.80] Oh, baking cookies. Food's a highlight here. -[1940.80 --> 1942.36] What do you think, Malachi or Zoe? -[1943.98 --> 1945.38] Supper. Yep, yep, yep. -[1948.72 --> 1951.44] Protecting the family. Yep, that's a big one. -[1951.44 --> 1953.44] There's so many special things our moms do for us. -[1953.76 --> 1956.52] And usually they're like, we think of highlight things, right? -[1956.58 --> 1962.78] Like the special things like making special cakes and big hugs and crafts. -[1963.80 --> 1968.08] Sometimes it's not always the most positive things for us though, right? -[1968.12 --> 1969.42] But ultimately it is positive. -[1969.84 --> 1973.58] Sometimes moms have to do the hard stuff too, right? -[1973.58 --> 1975.40] Like some of those extra chores. -[1975.94 --> 1981.24] And sometimes they have to call us to be good kids too, right? -[1981.60 --> 1985.16] Sometimes we have hard lessons we have to learn and moms get to come in to do that. -[1985.54 --> 1991.44] So today we're going to learn about a guy in the Bible who learned a really hard lesson. -[1991.90 --> 1996.58] Sometimes hard lessons don't always make us feel great, but sometimes they're the right thing to do, right? -[1996.58 --> 2005.04] So we're going to learn about a good lesson today and we're going to talk about more about some of the awesome things our moms do for us in Sunday school today. -[2005.30 --> 2008.68] Let's stand and we'll do the children's blessing and then we'll get off to our story. -[2008.68 --> 2008.74] Thank you. -[2008.74 --> 2008.80] Thank you. -[2026.58 --> 2055.64] Good morning. -[2055.64 --> 2056.84] My name is Glenn Nort. -[2056.92 --> 2058.42] I'm one of the elders here at Emmanuel. -[2059.44 --> 2064.36] And I have one announcement before we go to our Lord in congregational prayer. -[2064.90 --> 2067.94] We are still looking for one pastoral elder. -[2068.74 --> 2077.74] So I would urge all of you this week to consider whom you can nominate for that position and please do so during this week. -[2079.86 --> 2081.24] So let's go to God in prayer. -[2085.64 --> 2089.44] Holy Father, it is our joy and privilege to come to you in prayer this morning. -[2090.44 --> 2094.32] During the past week, we were blessed to experience your glory and beauty, -[2094.32 --> 2098.78] reflected and displayed in creation as the last of the trees put out. -[2098.78 --> 2099.28] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - Nov. 21, 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - Nov. 21, 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 027df11325a5759267f25f9d1f8f4802d12924ed..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - Nov. 21, 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,56 +0,0 @@ -• Discussion of a prayer or message by someone named Glenn -• Completion of a chapter in 1 Peter (specifically chapter 5) -• Availability of copies of the book used for study groups and Bible studies -• Invitation to continue learning from the material after church -• Reference to finishing the sermon series on 1 Peter -• The devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour -• Stand firm in the faith because you know that believers throughout the world are undergoing similar sufferings -• Resist evil desires and live holy lives among pagans, letting good deeds bring glory to God -• Culture is not neutral and can be influenced by secularism or materialistic humanism -• The devil uses cultural ideas and forces to pull people away from faith and towards sin -• Christians should not conform to cultural norms that are in opposition to their shared faith. -• The speaker discusses the idea that culture is not neutral, but rather influenced by forces such as the devil. -• The speaker draws an analogy between ancient Roman culture's practice of sacrificing to the emperor and modern cultural influences. -• The Apostle Paul's teachings in Ephesians 6 are referenced as supporting this idea. -• The speaker asks questions about what aspects of modern culture are being accepted without question, such as attitudes towards sex and sexuality. -• The speaker emphasizes that everyone is shaped by their culture, even if they don't realize it. -• The speaker challenges listeners to consider whether they are compromising with the world or pursuing holiness. -• The pressure to present an Instagrammable life -• The superficiality of counter-cultural communities that promote uniformity and conformity -• The dangers of pagan Christianity, which prioritizes personal gain over living out biblical values -• The consumerist approach to faith, where God is seen as a means to obtain rewards or benefits -• The importance of resisting the devil and culture's expectations in favor of being captivated by the glory of God -• The potential impact on church life if people were fully surrendered to the glory of God -• The vision for a church that declares the glories of God, attracts new believers, and sends out missionaries. -• Medical professionals using their skills to bring healing and wholeness to communities worldwide -• Civil engineers working to end homelessness and provide affordable housing -• Church families supporting Gospel efforts with prayer and resources -• Personal relationships, including marriages, reconciliations, and support among family members -• Spiritual growth through practices such as daily prayer, Bible reading, and memorization -• Resisting a pagan culture and standing firm in one's faith -• Transformation through the renewing of one's mind and being shaped by the image of Jesus -• Counteracting the devil's lies of inadequacy and isolation -• The importance of regular practices of faith to resist the devil -• God's transformative power through ordinary means of grace, such as worship and rituals -• Resisting the devil and standing firm in faith, knowing one is not alone in struggles -• Encouragement and accountability from fellow believers to press on towards spiritual goals -• The importance of fixing one's eyes on the glory of Jesus -• Helping one another fix their affections for Jesus and the gospel -• The role of history in understanding God's plan and actions -• Resisting Satan and standing firm in faith -• Showing the living hope that changes the world through obedience to God's word -• Seeking transformation and renewal by the power of the Holy Spirit -• Being sent out as ambassadors of reconciliation, ministers of the gospel, and missionaries for God's purpose -• Prayer of worship and praise -• Acknowledgment of God's presence in breath and spirit -• Expression of gratitude and adoration for God's light, love, hope, and restoration -• Assurance that all creation will shout God's praise -• Invitation to receive God's blessing and guidance -• God's presence and support -• Not being afraid -• Receiving God's blessing -• Jesus as hope, comfort, and light -• Breaking chains and rising to life -• Being the source of heaven's love and light on earth -• Believing in Jesus' resurrection and power -• Being drawn near to God through faith \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - Nov. 21, 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - Nov. 21, 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2f52019ca43c3e838b4d9d0f40b0852bd918aeb2..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - Nov. 21, 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,802 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.02 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[479.98 --> 509.96] Thank you. -[509.98 --> 539.96] Thank you. -[539.96 --> 569.94] Thank you. -[569.96 --> 599.94] Thank you. -[599.96 --> 629.94] Thank you. -[629.94 --> 659.92] Thank you. -[659.96 --> 689.92] Thank you. -[689.92 --> 719.90] Thank you. -[719.90 --> 749.88] Thank you. -[749.90 --> 779.88] Thank you. -[779.88 --> 809.86] Thank you. -[809.88 --> 839.86] Thank you. -[839.86 --> 869.86] -[869.86 --> 899.84] Thank you. -[899.84 --> 929.82] Thank you. -[929.82 --> 959.80] Thank you. -[959.80 --> 989.78] Thank you. -[989.80 --> 1019.78] Thank you. -[1019.78 --> 1049.76] Thank you. -[1049.76 --> 1079.74] Thank you. -[1079.76 --> 1109.74] Thank you. -[1109.74 --> 1139.72] Thank you. -[1139.72 --> 1169.70] Thank you. -[1169.70 --> 1199.68] Christ, my God. -[1199.68 --> 1229.66] Thank you. -[1229.68 --> 1259.66] Thank you. -[1259.66 --> 1289.64] Thank you. -[1289.64 --> 1319.64] Thank you. -[1319.64 --> 1349.62] Thank you. -[1349.64 --> 1379.62] Thank you. -[1379.64 --> 1409.62] Thank you. -[1409.64 --> 1439.62] Thank you. -[1439.62 --> 1469.60] Thank you. -[1469.62 --> 1499.60] Thank you. -[1499.62 --> 1529.60] Thank you. -[1529.62 --> 1559.60] Thank you. -[1559.60 --> 1589.58] Thank you. -[1589.58 --> 1619.58] Thank you. -[1619.58 --> 1649.56] Thank you. -[1649.56 --> 1679.56] Thank you. -[1679.56 --> 1709.54] Thank you. -[1709.54 --> 1739.52] Thank you. -[1739.54 --> 1769.52] Thank you. -[1769.52 --> 1799.52] Thank you. -[1799.52 --> 1829.50] Thank you. -[1829.52 --> 1859.50] Thank you. -[1859.52 --> 1889.50] Thank you. -[1889.52 --> 1919.50] There is a life. -[1919.52 --> 1949.50] Thank you. -[1949.50 --> 1979.48] Thank you. -[1979.50 --> 2009.48] Thank you. -[2009.50 --> 2039.50] Thank you. -[2039.50 --> 2069.48] Thank you. -[2069.48 --> 2099.46] Hi. -[2099.46 --> 2129.44] Thank you. -[2129.44 --> 2159.42] Thank you. -[2159.42 --> 2189.40] Thank you. -[2189.40 --> 2219.38] Have you. -[2219.38 --> 2249.36] Thank you. -[2249.36 --> 2279.34] Thank you. -[2279.36 --> 2309.34] Yeah, it's hard. -[2309.34 --> 2339.32] Yeah, I think you're listening. -[2339.32 --> 2369.30] Thank you. -[2369.32 --> 2371.32] Say bye to you. -[2399.32 --> 2429.30] Thank you. -[2429.32 --> 2459.30] So, the status of the house. -[2459.30 --> 2489.28] And I'm going to say, -[2489.30 --> 2519.28] Father, I'm going to say, -[2519.30 --> 2549.28] on the day, I'm going to say, -[2549.28 --> 2579.28] and I'm going to say, -[2579.28 --> 2609.26] and I'm going to say, -[2609.26 --> 2639.26] and I'm going to say, -[2639.26 --> 2669.24] and I'm going to say, -[2669.26 --> 2671.26] and I'm going to say, and I'm going to say, -[2699.26 --> 2701.26] Lord, this, I'm going to say, -[2729.26 --> 2759.26] and I'm going to say, -[2759.26 --> 2761.26] and I'm going to say, -[2789.84 --> 2791.26] and enable us. -[2791.26 --> 2802.28] As we leave this place this morning and begin a new week, we ask that we may reflect the love of Christ to all whom we encounter. In Jesus' name, amen. -[2802.28 --> 2803.28] Amen. -[2820.38 --> 2828.96] You've been with us for the last number of months in our preaching and teaching here. -[2828.96 --> 2833.48] We've been working through the book of 1 Peter, and with that we've provided this. -[2833.68 --> 2841.82] And so there's a number of groups and Bible studies, care groups, and the like who have been working and walking through 1 Peter with us, with this book. -[2842.36 --> 2850.84] Now that we are finished here, this is the last Sunday, if you want to continue your learning and you haven't picked up one of these, we do have more copies available. -[2850.84 --> 2860.86] And so please talk to the office or grab me after church and I can get you one and you can dig deeper into this material. -[2862.68 --> 2868.60] As I mentioned, as Glenn prayed, we are finishing the chapter today. -[2868.70 --> 2871.00] And so we're going to read from 1 Peter 5. -[2871.52 --> 2877.94] We're going to start at verse 8 and then read through to the end of the book at the end of verse 14. -[2877.94 --> 2883.14] And so if you've got a Bible, I encourage you to open that up, of course, to have that in your hands in front of you. -[2883.96 --> 2887.54] And it will also be on the screen behind me. -[2888.80 --> 2892.74] And so 1 Peter 5, verse 8. -[2894.78 --> 2898.08] Be alert and of sober mind. -[2899.08 --> 2905.76] Your enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. -[2905.76 --> 2908.24] Resist him. -[2909.04 --> 2916.76] Stand firm in the faith because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. -[2917.76 --> 2925.98] And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, -[2926.12 --> 2931.80] will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast. -[2931.80 --> 2935.86] To him be the power forever and ever. -[2936.52 --> 2936.92] Amen. -[2938.36 --> 2944.18] With the help of Silas, whom I regard as a faithful brother, I have written to you briefly, -[2944.86 --> 2949.76] encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God. -[2950.22 --> 2952.14] Stand fast in it. -[2952.14 --> 2962.54] She who is in Babylon, that is Rome, chosen together with you, sends her greetings, and so does my son Mark. -[2963.34 --> 2965.62] Greet one another with a kiss of love. -[2966.56 --> 2970.02] Peace to all of you who are in Christ. -[2970.64 --> 2972.00] This is the word of the Lord. -[2972.00 --> 2988.30] Throughout this letter, we have been hearing Peter's call to wage war against sinful desires. -[2988.66 --> 2993.42] To no longer give into or to conform to evil desires. -[2993.62 --> 2997.90] To not do what pagans choose to do. -[2997.90 --> 3003.78] But instead, Peter has said, be holy because God is holy. -[3004.12 --> 3009.52] Instead, Peter has said to live such good lives among the pagans that though they accuse you of doing wrong, -[3009.58 --> 3012.18] they might see your good deeds and glorify God. -[3012.76 --> 3020.66] Instead, Peter has said, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. -[3020.66 --> 3032.72] And now, as a final charge, Peter pulls all that together into what is really one long sentence in Greek. -[3032.82 --> 3038.36] At least verse 8 and 9 is one long sentence in Greek. -[3038.80 --> 3042.76] In our English translation, it's two, sometimes three, depending on which one you read. -[3043.46 --> 3046.18] But that will be our sort of banner, our focus. -[3046.18 --> 3047.80] Peter says, -[3047.80 --> 3054.22] Your enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour, and so resist him. -[3054.66 --> 3061.76] Stand firm in the faith, knowing that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. -[3063.18 --> 3066.82] Your enemy's prowling around you, looking to devour you. -[3067.16 --> 3072.00] Instead, resist him, stand firm, knowing that you don't stand alone. -[3072.00 --> 3076.08] Your enemy prowls around looking to devour you. -[3076.60 --> 3081.40] Resist him, stand firm, knowing that you don't stand alone. -[3083.16 --> 3087.18] Your enemy prowls around looking to devour you. -[3087.46 --> 3091.96] Now, it's into that context that I want you to hear what I'm going to say next. -[3091.96 --> 3104.48] And it is part of what Peter is trying to teach his readers and hearers, many of whom once lived as part of the pagan world that they're now called out of. -[3105.14 --> 3105.64] Right? -[3105.70 --> 3107.48] Now called out of as exiles. -[3108.70 --> 3112.60] What used to be normal for them no longer can be. -[3114.90 --> 3116.38] Here's what Peter wants you to hear. -[3116.38 --> 3122.28] The culture that you live in is not neutral. -[3123.78 --> 3123.88] Right? -[3124.02 --> 3128.14] Culture isn't ideologically neutral or morally neutral. -[3128.40 --> 3134.66] And I suspect that most of us today realize that that is true, at least to a certain extent or to a certain degree. -[3134.98 --> 3135.16] Right? -[3135.20 --> 3143.78] We realize that there are things and voices and forces that are pulling us and our minds and our hearts in particular directions. -[3143.78 --> 3148.10] But it wasn't always the case that we realize that. -[3148.70 --> 3148.82] Right? -[3148.86 --> 3164.36] In the 20th century, so, you know, 21 years ago, there was this idea, this cultural idea that secularism, and what I mean by that is a worldview that's not necessarily rooted in theism or in a belief in God, -[3164.36 --> 3179.96] but a worldview that is rooted in what you would call materialistic humanism, which is the idea that the physical world is all that there is and that people in it are fundamentally good and that history generally is moving towards increasing the good of people. -[3180.96 --> 3181.06] Right? -[3181.10 --> 3188.26] There was this idea that secularism, and that was socially accepted, that secularism was neutral. -[3188.26 --> 3198.16] And that secular, the secular cultural movements were the only ones that were genuinely tolerant because of that neutrality. -[3199.54 --> 3204.66] Now, like I said, this way of thinking isn't absolutely gone from our world because, to be honest, and we can talk about this more, -[3204.76 --> 3209.34] but the recent secularism bill in Quebec kind of shows that it still is ongoing. -[3209.34 --> 3211.62] But it has changed a little bit. -[3212.76 --> 3228.10] And my point in bringing all of this up for us is that 2,000 years after Peter writes this letter, it's easy for us to see how the pagan culture that the Christians lived in at the time was in opposition to our shared faith. -[3228.20 --> 3236.52] It's easy for us to see, from our perspectives, how their culture isn't neutral and how it was the devil prowling around like a roaring lion. -[3236.52 --> 3246.24] It's easy to see 2,000 years removed how Christians shouldn't continue the cultural ideas about sex that existed in the Roman Empire. -[3246.64 --> 3253.08] It's easy to see, 2,000 years later, how Christians shouldn't sacrifice to the emperor or offer worship to him, -[3253.30 --> 3258.66] which was a test used by those persecuting the church to identify Christians. -[3258.66 --> 3265.42] And while it's easy for us to see, from our perspective, as Christians 2,000 years later, -[3265.70 --> 3272.78] it wouldn't have been so easy for those people living it, for the people in that moment. -[3275.22 --> 3282.90] Sex with slaves and prostitutes, young, old, male, female, was just normal for most men in the Roman Empire, -[3285.04 --> 3288.24] especially those who had some status and influence. -[3288.66 --> 3290.66] It was just everyday part of life. -[3291.82 --> 3294.10] I was thinking about an analogy. -[3295.14 --> 3303.12] When I was a kid, it was absolutely, utterly normal, mundane, for when we went over to my grandpa's house -[3303.12 --> 3305.86] or when he would come home, he would open the door and he would say, -[3305.96 --> 3309.62] take off your hats, because there's no hats in the house. -[3311.48 --> 3313.32] It was just normal for him to say that. -[3313.32 --> 3318.94] Exactly as normal as that was, it was to sacrifice to the emperor. -[3319.76 --> 3324.96] So you walked into a new city or you walked into someone's house and the pater familius, -[3325.12 --> 3329.68] the leader of the family, would sacrifice to the emperor and he would turn to his kids or his grandkids and say, -[3330.48 --> 3332.06] now sacrifice to the emperor. -[3332.06 --> 3334.18] That's what you do. -[3334.90 --> 3341.02] And in that culture, in that moment, it seems normal, it seems inane even, and it seems relatively harmless, -[3341.72 --> 3344.56] but culture is not neutral. -[3345.86 --> 3348.34] Now, to be sure, it's not all bad. -[3348.34 --> 3349.34] Right? -[3350.38 --> 3354.42] There are some good and great and awesome things that come out of culture. -[3354.70 --> 3360.02] God gave us a cultural mandate that is to pursue and develop in the world. -[3361.18 --> 3371.10] But I think it's easy to forget that your enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. -[3371.10 --> 3375.02] Because behind the culture is a force. -[3375.20 --> 3380.78] Behind the culture is an idea, an enemy, waging war for your soul. -[3381.74 --> 3383.60] Culture is not neutral. -[3385.66 --> 3391.82] The Apostle Paul makes this same kind of point, pulling back the veil for us in Ephesians 6. -[3391.94 --> 3392.26] He says, -[3392.26 --> 3421.28] And realizing then what Peter and Paul are saying about the culture of their day, -[3421.28 --> 3422.72] begs the question. -[3424.32 --> 3424.46] Right? -[3424.52 --> 3432.12] If culture isn't neutral, if culture, if what was normal or inane or seemingly harmless in that culture -[3432.12 --> 3435.20] needed to be challenged, needed to be reimagined, -[3435.46 --> 3438.42] the kinds of things that people would do without a second thought, -[3439.74 --> 3446.00] what is it in our culture that is the same? -[3446.48 --> 3446.60] Right? -[3446.60 --> 3450.08] What is our food sacrificed to idols? -[3450.20 --> 3451.20] Which is another one of those things. -[3451.28 --> 3453.56] What is our worshipping of the emperor? -[3453.68 --> 3457.80] What is our laissez-faire attitudes towards sex and sexuality? -[3457.92 --> 3459.94] Because you better believe that we have them. -[3461.02 --> 3461.14] Right? -[3461.18 --> 3463.42] That our culture isn't neutral. -[3464.16 --> 3466.48] And it is pervasive. -[3466.92 --> 3471.32] And because it is pervasive, that means there are blind spots that we have. -[3471.40 --> 3475.44] There are ignorances that we live out of, both willful and learned, -[3475.44 --> 3477.88] as well as adopted and assumed. -[3477.88 --> 3482.64] And let me be really clear, because some of you are drawing this conclusion already. -[3482.64 --> 3485.98] I am not talking about left or right politics. -[3485.98 --> 3492.50] I am not talking about the subtle redefinitions of progressivism or the unbendingness of conservatism. -[3492.50 --> 3493.12] I am not talking about the truth. -[3493.12 --> 3498.16] I am not talking about advocating for socialism or for libertarianism or anything in between. -[3498.16 --> 3505.54] What I am saying is culture isn't neutral. -[3505.54 --> 3513.08] And culture is shaping you and forming you and pulling you in a particular direction. -[3513.42 --> 3514.94] None of us live in a vacuum. -[3515.94 --> 3520.96] The reality is, as long as you live in the world, as long as you live in society as social beings, -[3521.24 --> 3524.68] you are being shaped and formed in a particular way. -[3524.68 --> 3528.46] The question is, to what image? -[3529.64 --> 3530.58] Whose image? -[3530.72 --> 3531.82] To what end? -[3533.28 --> 3537.30] And as God holds up to you the mirror of his word, -[3537.84 --> 3541.92] do you see someone who looks exactly like the pagan culture around you? -[3541.98 --> 3545.68] Or do you see someone who looks increasingly like Jesus? -[3545.82 --> 3550.18] Or to put it another way, do you see compromise or do you see holiness? -[3550.18 --> 3556.04] And let me be fair, because asking that question is unfair. -[3557.18 --> 3560.76] Because if it's compromise, you won't actually see it. -[3561.52 --> 3562.94] Because you're blind to it. -[3563.54 --> 3565.62] Because that's just the way it is. -[3566.66 --> 3571.68] The enemy is prowling around below the surface of the tall grass, -[3572.62 --> 3574.34] looking to devour you. -[3575.14 --> 3577.36] You just can't see it. -[3580.18 --> 3586.54] Look, with both prophetic boldness and pastoral sensitivity, -[3586.80 --> 3589.12] I'm going to be explicit with you. -[3590.52 --> 3597.92] Some of you are trading the glories of Christ for the lesser glories of this world. -[3599.10 --> 3602.46] Because you are still operating out of the worldview of the culture. -[3602.46 --> 3608.50] And look, while I believe, and I know that everybody needs to hear this, -[3609.08 --> 3611.80] this is especially true for those of you who are younger, -[3611.88 --> 3614.74] for those of you who are teenagers or who are emerging adults right now. -[3614.74 --> 3618.06] Because the world is telling you a particular thing. -[3618.16 --> 3620.22] It's selling you a particular bill of goods. -[3620.50 --> 3622.84] It's saying, follow what sparks joy. -[3623.16 --> 3624.12] Follow your bliss. -[3624.52 --> 3625.90] Do only what you love. -[3625.90 --> 3632.70] We live in a time and place that has set up impossible standards and expectations for beauty. -[3633.10 --> 3636.88] And we live in a time and place that demands Instagrammable moments -[3636.88 --> 3639.98] in order to convey a certain quality of life. -[3640.34 --> 3643.98] And really, in this mix, even the so-called counter-cultural -[3643.98 --> 3647.18] is just another community of free-thinking, unique individuals -[3647.18 --> 3650.34] who think exactly the same thing and who look exactly the same. -[3650.96 --> 3651.04] Right? -[3651.18 --> 3653.54] Uniqueness in today's world requires uniformity. -[3653.54 --> 3656.54] Uniqueness in today's world. -[3656.54 --> 3662.26] Some of you will go on living your life like all that matters is this life. -[3664.08 --> 3665.08] This world. -[3665.84 --> 3667.76] That all that matters is right now. -[3667.86 --> 3668.52] That this is it. -[3669.54 --> 3672.26] And I want you to hear what Peter has been telling us through this series. -[3673.24 --> 3675.16] That is pagan. -[3675.16 --> 3687.80] There is a whole culture of Christians right now who are actually more pagan than we are biblical. -[3689.62 --> 3692.98] You are pagan if you live like this world is all there is. -[3693.92 --> 3698.80] You are pagan if your approach to God is as a credit and debit system. -[3699.34 --> 3699.48] Right? -[3699.52 --> 3701.44] A ledger that God keeps track of. -[3701.50 --> 3703.52] Or that, more accurately, you keep track of. -[3703.52 --> 3703.68] Right? -[3703.70 --> 3705.74] You say things like, okay, God, I did this. -[3705.94 --> 3707.06] I was obedient in this. -[3707.12 --> 3708.04] I was faithful in this. -[3708.16 --> 3709.36] Now give me my reward. -[3710.78 --> 3710.94] Right? -[3710.98 --> 3712.74] God, I've been good all my life. -[3713.08 --> 3714.48] Don't I deserve a little break? -[3716.76 --> 3718.08] God, I have been faithful. -[3719.52 --> 3721.24] Can't you give me a boyfriend? -[3721.24 --> 3725.82] I have done everything you've asked of me. -[3727.12 --> 3728.04] Can't you just give me this? -[3728.04 --> 3729.42] God, I have done everything you've asked of me. -[3729.42 --> 3735.16] The backbone of pagan Christianity is a consumerist approach to life. -[3735.46 --> 3738.26] In that what matters is what you can get out of it. -[3738.32 --> 3740.18] What matters is what I can get out of it. -[3743.10 --> 3744.90] I've got no use for that person. -[3745.86 --> 3746.72] Have you ever said that? -[3746.76 --> 3747.86] Have you ever heard that expression? -[3749.18 --> 3749.38] Right? -[3749.38 --> 3750.70] I've got no use for that person. -[3751.04 --> 3753.38] That's a consumerist approach to people. -[3753.38 --> 3756.32] Making them a means to an end. -[3756.42 --> 3758.60] Something to be used for your benefit. -[3758.90 --> 3760.58] And we do the same thing with God. -[3761.28 --> 3762.26] And with church. -[3762.98 --> 3763.52] And worship. -[3764.26 --> 3764.76] And prayer. -[3766.34 --> 3769.26] If you've stopped doing any of those things. -[3769.34 --> 3770.10] Interacting with God. -[3770.24 --> 3771.20] Or worshiping Him. -[3771.50 --> 3772.66] And praying to Him. -[3772.74 --> 3773.54] And studying His Word. -[3773.60 --> 3775.40] If you stopped doing any of those things. -[3776.16 --> 3778.30] Because you don't get anything out of it. -[3779.30 --> 3780.70] Many of us have heard that before. -[3780.84 --> 3781.60] Or said that before. -[3781.60 --> 3783.56] That's consumerism. -[3784.24 --> 3785.72] That's pagan Christianity. -[3787.00 --> 3788.84] And that's no Christianity at all. -[3790.36 --> 3793.82] That's the danger of thinking that culture is neutral. -[3794.90 --> 3795.82] It's not. -[3797.10 --> 3799.00] Culture is investing in you. -[3799.00 --> 3802.46] And it expects a return on its investment. -[3803.92 --> 3809.36] Your enemy, the devil, is prowling around looking to devour you. -[3809.36 --> 3812.12] Resist Him. -[3813.66 --> 3813.84] Right? -[3813.90 --> 3819.30] We need to stop letting the lesser glories of this world captivate our hearts and imaginations. -[3819.46 --> 3825.48] Instead, we need to turn our hearts to the magnificence and the beauty of Jesus and the Gospel. -[3825.48 --> 3839.92] The way that you resist lesser glories in life and in this world is by opening your eyes and your heart to the greater glory of God in the Gospel. -[3839.92 --> 3843.30] And to do that over and over and over again. -[3843.30 --> 3857.92] What would our church look like if our imaginations, if our social imaginaries, if the lens through which we looked at the entire world, -[3858.16 --> 3864.70] what would this church look like if we were captivated utterly and completely by the glory of God? -[3865.04 --> 3866.56] What would your life look like? -[3867.34 --> 3870.30] What is one thing right now that would be different? -[3870.30 --> 3873.86] I've been praying through this question this week. -[3874.24 --> 3877.66] And let me tell you what I believe the Lord has given me to see. -[3877.86 --> 3879.80] Because this is the resistance. -[3881.98 --> 3890.12] I see a church full of people who can't help declare the glories of God in the Gospel to their neighbors. -[3890.12 --> 3900.58] I look out and I see new faces each week because more and more people are falling in love with Jesus and with His church, longing to be part of something here. -[3901.50 --> 3908.24] I see a group of people who want that here in this place so that they're willing to take it anywhere. -[3908.24 --> 3918.66] But I see a new generation, young and old, sacrificing the comforts and the safety of a consumerist paganism for the glory of God in global mission. -[3918.66 --> 3930.40] I see medical professionals, doctors and nurses going with Medicine Sans Frontier or the Luke Society to be healing and to bring wholeness to communities around the world. -[3930.40 --> 3938.02] I see civil engineers committed to ending homelessness and providing affordable, integrated social housing. -[3938.76 --> 3948.10] I see a church family willingly, joyfully backing impossible efforts for the Gospel with prayer and with resources. -[3948.10 --> 3958.56] And then not just in the big things, right, because I see husbands and wives fighting for their marriages even after huge mistakes, even when the culture is saying, just leave. -[3959.20 --> 3963.58] Because the Gospel of Jesus teaches reconciliation and restoration. -[3964.52 --> 3972.06] I see kids looking at their parents and being inspired to worship God and live for His glory with purpose and passion. -[3972.06 --> 3981.28] I see brothers being reconciled and relationships being made whole because both parties are willingly choosing humility and the attitude of Jesus. -[3981.72 --> 3986.12] I see sisters stop gossiping but instead supporting and encouraging one another. -[3986.40 --> 3988.56] I see widows held up in their grief. -[3988.96 --> 3993.34] I see other people's kids being adopted by spiritual parents and spiritual grandparents. -[3993.34 --> 4002.30] And I see all of this and so much more because I'm looking for the glory of God in you, in here, with us. -[4003.00 --> 4006.24] Let's not settle for lesser glories or pagan substitutes. -[4006.66 --> 4007.44] Resist them. -[4009.28 --> 4015.80] I believe that's what Peter means when he says, resist him, stand firm in the faith. -[4016.52 --> 4021.50] Don't be pulled away to be devoured by the devil through a culture that isn't ever neutral. -[4021.50 --> 4033.16] You see, just as exposure and participation in the culture in paganism shapes you, forms you over time, -[4033.58 --> 4038.26] so too does exposure and participation in the faith. -[4039.12 --> 4041.50] Stand firm in the faith. -[4042.22 --> 4044.46] Your enemy prowls around looking to devour you. -[4044.56 --> 4047.56] Instead, resist him and now stand firm. -[4047.56 --> 4056.20] Instead, be shaped and formed and transformed by the renewing of your mind. -[4056.40 --> 4060.22] This is what Paul says, again, and I think recognizing the exact same thing that Peter does, -[4060.26 --> 4062.78] that we have here in this text and throughout the whole letter. -[4062.88 --> 4064.08] Paul says in Romans 12, -[4064.08 --> 4083.60] The way that you resist the devil, the way that you counterform against a pagan culture, -[4083.60 --> 4089.58] is by the regular, habitual, ritual practices of what it means to be Christians. -[4089.58 --> 4094.54] So then, just as you have received Christ Jesus as Lord, -[4094.92 --> 4099.22] continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, -[4099.48 --> 4102.20] strengthened in the faith as you were taught. -[4103.70 --> 4107.52] Stand firm by being rooted and built up. -[4108.04 --> 4110.68] Stand firm by being strengthened in the faith. -[4110.86 --> 4114.38] Stand firm by growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. -[4114.38 --> 4120.52] Stand firm so that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, -[4120.52 --> 4125.08] which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world, -[4125.18 --> 4127.32] rather than on Christ. -[4128.22 --> 4134.46] The practices of the faith, the habitual, ritual practices of faith for you, -[4134.58 --> 4138.34] they transform you into the image of Jesus. -[4139.84 --> 4140.42] Look at it. -[4140.98 --> 4142.98] Look at it this way, because some of you might say, -[4142.98 --> 4145.38] in fact, people have said to me, -[4145.98 --> 4147.88] I'm just not a patient person. -[4148.70 --> 4150.36] I've never been a patient person. -[4151.86 --> 4154.08] And as true as that might be for you right now, -[4154.42 --> 4157.40] what would happen if you spent the next year -[4157.40 --> 4160.92] actually, genuinely, daily, -[4161.84 --> 4163.46] praying for patience? -[4164.82 --> 4167.50] Not only do I believe that God has the power -[4167.50 --> 4170.94] to supernaturally transform your heart and mind, -[4170.94 --> 4173.08] making you more patient in response to his prayer, -[4173.50 --> 4179.04] but I also know that just the habitual practice of centering on Jesus -[4179.04 --> 4181.24] and meditating on your need for patience in him, -[4181.44 --> 4184.10] just the habitual practice of constantly putting that -[4184.10 --> 4186.28] before the throne of grace in prayer, -[4186.50 --> 4187.84] will make you more patient. -[4187.84 --> 4190.54] And sure, not at first, -[4191.22 --> 4192.18] not right away, -[4193.18 --> 4195.68] but slowly and deeply, -[4196.10 --> 4197.88] from the inside out, -[4197.92 --> 4199.58] as your mind is renewed, -[4199.72 --> 4201.80] and as you learn over that time -[4201.80 --> 4203.62] what makes you lose your patience, -[4204.12 --> 4206.28] as you reflect on why you're impatient. -[4206.74 --> 4207.32] And I mean here, -[4207.38 --> 4208.54] the actual why, -[4208.80 --> 4209.50] not just the, -[4209.70 --> 4211.54] my kids know how to push my buttons why, -[4211.68 --> 4212.88] but the heart reason why. -[4212.88 --> 4217.04] A couple fathers just looked at their sons. -[4219.78 --> 4220.78] If the son heard, -[4220.90 --> 4222.28] they just looked back at their father and said, -[4222.34 --> 4222.62] yeah, dad, -[4222.66 --> 4223.44] the heart reason why. -[4225.14 --> 4225.34] Right? -[4225.40 --> 4228.84] The habitual and ritual of regular confession -[4228.84 --> 4230.78] makes you humble, -[4231.00 --> 4234.50] and it only increases your integrity in life and faith. -[4235.10 --> 4238.50] The habitual and ritual of regular rest -[4238.50 --> 4242.78] makes you stronger to endure more trial and suffering. -[4243.14 --> 4245.72] The habitual and ritual of scripture reading -[4245.72 --> 4247.16] and Bible memorization -[4247.16 --> 4250.22] puts the very words of God on your heart -[4250.22 --> 4251.90] to speak against the lies -[4251.90 --> 4254.34] that the devil whispers into your ears daily. -[4254.62 --> 4254.74] Right? -[4254.80 --> 4255.90] You are not good enough. -[4256.26 --> 4257.22] Nobody loves you. -[4257.50 --> 4259.10] You'll never be worthy. -[4259.54 --> 4260.66] Get behind me, Satan, -[4261.28 --> 4262.90] because I know the gospel of Jesus -[4262.90 --> 4264.34] who lived the life I should have lived -[4264.34 --> 4265.58] and died the death that I deserve. -[4265.66 --> 4266.60] Get behind me, Satan, -[4266.80 --> 4268.26] because I know the gospel of Jesus -[4268.26 --> 4268.54] who, -[4269.42 --> 4270.90] though I am more sinful -[4270.90 --> 4272.20] than I would ever dare admit, -[4272.34 --> 4274.22] I am yet more loved -[4274.22 --> 4276.54] than I could ever imagine possible. -[4276.94 --> 4278.66] And this is love. -[4278.74 --> 4279.84] Not that we loved God, -[4279.90 --> 4280.84] but that he loved us -[4280.84 --> 4281.82] and sent his son -[4281.82 --> 4283.32] as an atoning sacrifice -[4283.32 --> 4285.46] for our sins. -[4287.22 --> 4289.86] Every waking moment, -[4290.30 --> 4293.22] the pagan world is trying to shape you -[4293.22 --> 4295.36] and the devil is prowling around -[4295.36 --> 4297.20] looking to devour you. -[4297.20 --> 4299.86] You need more than one hour a week -[4299.86 --> 4300.68] to resist him. -[4302.28 --> 4304.90] You need more than one service a week -[4304.90 --> 4306.38] to stand firm in the faith, -[4306.54 --> 4308.28] even if it is the best service -[4308.28 --> 4309.56] you've ever been to, -[4309.76 --> 4311.48] even if it is the best preacher -[4311.48 --> 4312.44] you've ever heard, -[4312.48 --> 4313.82] and that means you went somewhere else this week. -[4315.16 --> 4319.62] You need regular, habitual, ritual practices of faith. -[4319.62 --> 4322.88] You need more because you need God. -[4327.50 --> 4328.98] And the grace of God, -[4329.48 --> 4332.36] who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, -[4332.48 --> 4334.20] after you have suffered a little while, -[4334.58 --> 4336.90] will himself restore you -[4336.90 --> 4340.78] and make you strong, firm, and steadfast. -[4340.78 --> 4345.44] God himself will restore you -[4345.44 --> 4349.02] and make you strong, firm, and steadfast. -[4350.02 --> 4354.46] The regular, habitual, ritual practices of the faith -[4354.46 --> 4358.42] are the means by which God causes you to stand firm, -[4358.60 --> 4361.72] are the means by which God causes you to resist the devil. -[4361.72 --> 4365.36] Well, I led a devotional -[4365.36 --> 4369.32] for a worship ministries team meeting last week, -[4369.66 --> 4370.54] or two weeks ago now, -[4370.84 --> 4372.98] and at the devotional I said, -[4373.54 --> 4374.98] there is nothing ordinary -[4374.98 --> 4377.22] about the ordinary means of grace. -[4378.22 --> 4381.34] This is how God transforms us. -[4382.06 --> 4383.58] Restoration through the regular, -[4383.94 --> 4385.58] glimpses of heaven in the habitual, -[4386.04 --> 4387.78] renewal by the ritual. -[4387.78 --> 4390.16] Your enemy, the devil, prowls around -[4390.16 --> 4391.30] looking to devour you. -[4391.52 --> 4392.94] Instead, resist him. -[4393.40 --> 4394.26] Stand firm, -[4394.68 --> 4397.72] knowing that you are not alone. -[4399.80 --> 4400.62] Resist him. -[4401.50 --> 4402.88] Standing firm in the faith -[4402.88 --> 4405.56] because you know that the family of believers -[4405.56 --> 4406.48] throughout the world -[4406.48 --> 4409.50] is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. -[4409.58 --> 4410.64] You are not alone. -[4411.16 --> 4412.72] It is a lie of the devil -[4412.72 --> 4414.76] that you are alone in your struggles. -[4415.34 --> 4416.70] It is a lie of the devil -[4416.70 --> 4419.00] that no one else feels what you feel. -[4419.28 --> 4420.56] It is a lie of the devil -[4420.56 --> 4424.30] that you are left apart from the rest. -[4424.58 --> 4427.04] You are not alone. -[4428.42 --> 4430.46] A family of believers throughout the world -[4430.46 --> 4432.08] shares in the struggle -[4432.08 --> 4433.98] of being counterformed -[4433.98 --> 4435.78] against a pagan culture. -[4435.92 --> 4437.00] We are all struggling -[4437.00 --> 4438.18] to resist the devil -[4438.18 --> 4439.30] and stand firm. -[4439.50 --> 4440.72] And we are all together, -[4440.80 --> 4441.46] as one, -[4441.84 --> 4443.44] pressing on toward the goal -[4443.44 --> 4444.38] to win the prize -[4444.38 --> 4446.08] for which God has called me heavenward -[4446.08 --> 4447.76] in Christ Jesus. -[4449.46 --> 4450.28] Truth is, -[4451.10 --> 4452.38] I need your help -[4452.38 --> 4454.42] fixing my eyes on Jesus -[4454.42 --> 4455.46] as I run the race -[4455.46 --> 4456.52] that's marked out for me. -[4456.78 --> 4457.26] And you, -[4457.40 --> 4458.36] by your encouragement -[4458.36 --> 4459.44] and by your accountability, -[4459.90 --> 4460.34] and yes, -[4460.42 --> 4461.68] even by your rebuke, -[4462.02 --> 4463.74] you are turning my face -[4463.74 --> 4464.82] towards Jesus -[4464.82 --> 4465.86] so that I might see -[4465.86 --> 4466.92] the glories of him -[4466.92 --> 4468.08] even more clearly. -[4468.08 --> 4469.80] your job, -[4469.90 --> 4471.32] our jobs together -[4471.32 --> 4472.82] are to help one another -[4472.82 --> 4474.02] fix our eyes -[4474.02 --> 4475.56] on the glory of Jesus. -[4475.76 --> 4476.10] Together, -[4476.30 --> 4477.22] we help each other -[4477.22 --> 4479.20] by stirring one another's affections -[4479.20 --> 4479.76] for Jesus -[4479.76 --> 4480.94] and the gospel. -[4482.14 --> 4482.50] Together, -[4482.84 --> 4483.66] we proclaim -[4483.66 --> 4485.10] and reveal. -[4485.46 --> 4485.74] Together, -[4486.34 --> 4487.54] we proclaim -[4487.54 --> 4488.46] by revealing -[4488.46 --> 4489.88] the kingdom come -[4489.88 --> 4491.88] and the kingdom coming. -[4493.70 --> 4495.20] It's also why history -[4495.20 --> 4496.24] is so important -[4496.24 --> 4497.30] to us as Christians. -[4498.72 --> 4500.34] In our present darkness, -[4500.62 --> 4501.60] it is always hard -[4501.60 --> 4503.48] to see your own way out. -[4504.46 --> 4505.48] And the faithful Christians -[4505.48 --> 4506.30] of the past -[4506.30 --> 4507.52] or faithful Christians -[4507.52 --> 4508.36] on the other side -[4508.36 --> 4508.92] of the world -[4508.92 --> 4510.50] can show us a way. -[4510.78 --> 4511.70] The church of old -[4511.70 --> 4513.02] can light the way forward -[4513.02 --> 4513.94] into the future. -[4515.78 --> 4516.44] Your enemy, -[4516.60 --> 4516.94] the devil, -[4517.10 --> 4517.96] prowls around -[4517.96 --> 4519.96] looking to devour you. -[4521.22 --> 4521.64] Instead, -[4522.20 --> 4522.98] resist him. -[4523.72 --> 4524.58] Stand firm, -[4524.96 --> 4527.42] knowing you are not alone. -[4528.08 --> 4529.20] this, -[4530.24 --> 4531.30] beloved of God, -[4532.40 --> 4534.60] chosen by him. -[4535.36 --> 4537.64] This is how you show -[4537.64 --> 4539.10] the living hope -[4539.10 --> 4541.92] that changes the world. -[4542.60 --> 4544.78] To him be power -[4544.78 --> 4546.54] forever and ever. -[4547.04 --> 4548.02] And all God's people said, -[4548.54 --> 4549.46] amen. -[4549.46 --> 4551.34] Lord Jesus Christ, -[4551.46 --> 4552.60] we thank you for -[4552.60 --> 4553.80] this chance -[4553.80 --> 4554.36] to gather -[4554.36 --> 4555.32] in worship -[4555.32 --> 4556.26] this morning. -[4556.36 --> 4557.00] We thank you -[4557.00 --> 4558.22] for the honor -[4558.22 --> 4559.12] and the privilege -[4559.12 --> 4560.80] to hear your word, -[4560.98 --> 4562.82] to stand firm -[4562.82 --> 4563.72] in it -[4563.72 --> 4565.56] because your word -[4565.56 --> 4566.36] is eternal. -[4567.16 --> 4567.64] Your word -[4567.64 --> 4568.64] is unchanging. -[4569.48 --> 4569.86] Father God, -[4569.92 --> 4570.96] we cling to the promise -[4570.96 --> 4571.68] that your word -[4571.68 --> 4572.26] goes out -[4572.26 --> 4573.48] and will not return -[4573.48 --> 4573.98] to you -[4573.98 --> 4574.58] without it -[4574.58 --> 4575.64] accomplishing the purpose -[4575.64 --> 4577.00] for which you sent it. -[4577.00 --> 4577.50] And so, -[4577.68 --> 4578.10] Lord God, -[4578.44 --> 4579.54] make our hearts -[4579.54 --> 4580.38] that purpose. -[4580.56 --> 4581.54] Make our lives -[4581.54 --> 4582.42] that purpose. -[4582.66 --> 4583.72] Make our living -[4583.72 --> 4584.58] in the world -[4584.58 --> 4585.38] that purpose. -[4585.92 --> 4587.70] Transform us -[4587.70 --> 4590.08] by the renewing -[4590.08 --> 4590.68] of our minds. -[4592.90 --> 4593.86] Send us out now -[4593.86 --> 4595.94] in the power -[4595.94 --> 4597.74] of your Holy Spirit. -[4598.78 --> 4599.62] Send us out now -[4599.62 --> 4601.48] in the sure conviction -[4601.48 --> 4603.16] that we are not alone. -[4603.16 --> 4604.96] send us out -[4604.96 --> 4607.00] as ambassadors -[4607.00 --> 4608.06] of reconciliation, -[4609.10 --> 4609.76] as ministers -[4609.76 --> 4610.98] of the gospel of grace. -[4611.38 --> 4612.02] Send us out -[4612.02 --> 4612.90] as missionaries -[4612.90 --> 4613.86] for your purpose -[4613.86 --> 4615.88] so that the entire world -[4615.88 --> 4616.76] might see -[4616.76 --> 4617.92] and know -[4617.92 --> 4619.84] your glory. -[4621.58 --> 4622.86] There is no greater mission, -[4623.00 --> 4623.92] there is no greater purpose, -[4624.10 --> 4624.82] and it is what -[4624.82 --> 4626.94] you have called us to. -[4627.10 --> 4627.74] And so, -[4627.96 --> 4628.60] Lord God, -[4629.04 --> 4630.16] we go. -[4630.16 --> 4630.22] Go. -[4631.68 --> 4632.66] Go with us. -[4633.16 --> 4634.64] In Jesus' name we pray. -[4635.52 --> 4635.86] Amen. -[4635.86 --> 4657.62] You give light, -[4657.98 --> 4659.62] you are love, -[4659.62 --> 4661.78] you bring light -[4661.78 --> 4664.14] to the darkness, -[4664.14 --> 4665.96] you give hope, -[4666.48 --> 4667.58] you restore -[4667.58 --> 4670.36] every heart -[4670.36 --> 4672.72] that is broken. -[4675.22 --> 4677.98] And great are you, -[4678.36 --> 4679.64] Lord. -[4681.24 --> 4683.02] It's your breath -[4683.02 --> 4685.28] in our lungs, -[4685.28 --> 4688.22] so we pour out our praise, -[4688.56 --> 4690.24] pour out our praise. -[4690.24 --> 4691.64] It's your breath -[4691.64 --> 4694.04] in our lungs, -[4694.04 --> 4697.04] so we pour out our praise -[4697.04 --> 4697.64] to you, -[4697.72 --> 4699.24] oh me. -[4699.24 --> 4699.82] Oh me. -[4699.82 --> 4708.30] you give light, -[4708.30 --> 4709.44] you give light, -[4709.44 --> 4711.74] you are love, -[4711.74 --> 4713.94] you bring light -[4713.94 --> 4716.36] to the darkness, -[4716.36 --> 4718.30] you give hope, -[4718.30 --> 4719.98] you restore -[4719.98 --> 4722.30] every heart -[4722.30 --> 4725.42] that is broken. -[4725.42 --> 4726.82] great are you, -[4726.82 --> 4730.82] great are you, -[4730.82 --> 4732.02] Lord. -[4732.02 --> 4735.94] It's your breath -[4735.94 --> 4738.30] in our lungs, -[4738.30 --> 4741.34] so we pour out our praise, -[4741.34 --> 4743.38] pour out our praise. -[4743.38 --> 4744.94] It's your breath -[4744.94 --> 4747.34] in our lungs, -[4747.34 --> 4750.34] so we pour out our praise -[4750.34 --> 4750.94] to you, -[4750.94 --> 4751.94] oh me. -[4751.94 --> 4753.94] It's your breath -[4753.94 --> 4756.26] in our lungs, -[4756.26 --> 4759.46] so we pour out our praise, -[4759.46 --> 4761.50] pour out our praise. -[4761.50 --> 4763.00] It's your breath -[4763.00 --> 4765.22] in our lungs, -[4765.22 --> 4768.34] so we pour out our praise -[4768.34 --> 4768.84] to you, -[4768.84 --> 4770.34] oh me. -[4770.34 --> 4771.34] it's your breath -[4771.34 --> 4771.74] in our lungs, -[4771.74 --> 4773.74] so we pour out our praise. -[4773.74 --> 4790.06] and all the earth -[4790.06 --> 4792.06] will shout your praise, -[4792.06 --> 4794.50] our hearts will cry, -[4794.50 --> 4796.66] these songs will sing, -[4796.66 --> 4801.46] great are you, -[4801.46 --> 4805.46] Lord. -[4805.46 --> 4807.66] and all the earth -[4807.66 --> 4809.94] will shout your praise, -[4809.94 --> 4812.04] our hearts will cry, -[4812.04 --> 4814.64] these songs will sing, -[4814.64 --> 4818.94] great are you, -[4818.94 --> 4822.94] Lord. -[4822.94 --> 4824.98] and all the earth -[4824.98 --> 4827.26] will shout your praise, -[4827.26 --> 4829.32] our hearts will cry, -[4829.32 --> 4831.28] these songs will sing, -[4831.28 --> 4835.72] great are you, -[4835.72 --> 4836.28] great are you, -[4836.28 --> 4839.72] Lord. -[4839.72 --> 4841.28] It's your breath -[4841.28 --> 4843.76] in our lungs, -[4843.76 --> 4846.76] so we pour out our praise, -[4846.76 --> 4848.76] pour out our praise. -[4848.76 --> 4850.20] It's your breath -[4850.20 --> 4852.44] in our lungs, -[4852.44 --> 4855.40] so we pour out our praise -[4855.40 --> 4857.24] to you, oh me. -[4857.24 --> 4859.08] It's your breath -[4859.08 --> 4860.08] in our lungs, -[4860.08 --> 4861.08] in our lungs, -[4861.08 --> 4862.08] in our lungs, -[4862.08 --> 4864.08] so we pour out our praise, -[4864.08 --> 4865.08] pour out our praise, -[4865.08 --> 4867.52] it's your breath, -[4867.52 --> 4869.08] in our lungs, -[4869.08 --> 4871.52] so we pour out our praise, -[4871.52 --> 4875.52] and our applause. -[4875.52 --> 4878.52] . -[4878.52 --> 4880.52] . -[4880.52 --> 4882.60] . -[4882.60 --> 4887.24] . -[4887.24 --> 4890.68] . -[4890.68 --> 4891.18] . -[4891.18 --> 4892.52] . -[4892.52 --> 4898.50] . -[4898.50 --> 4899.30] . -[4899.30 --> 4908.10] filled with the breath of God, -[4908.20 --> 4911.74] his spirit go out into this week -[4911.74 --> 4915.34] to proclaim his name. -[4916.34 --> 4918.34] Know that God himself goes with you -[4918.34 --> 4921.10] and so receive his blessing. -[4922.80 --> 4925.66] May God go before you to lead you. -[4926.48 --> 4928.78] May God go behind you to guard you. -[4929.30 --> 4931.76] May God go beneath you to support you -[4931.76 --> 4934.60] and may God go beside you to befriend you. -[4934.94 --> 4936.86] Do not be afraid. -[4937.42 --> 4939.36] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[4939.52 --> 4941.14] Do not be afraid, -[4941.56 --> 4945.12] but go in peace in the power of his name -[4945.12 --> 4947.78] to love and serve the Lord. -[4947.78 --> 4949.68] Amen. -[4959.30 --> 4971.92] Jesus, hope of the nations, -[4972.76 --> 4976.68] Jesus, comfort for all who own. -[4976.68 --> 4983.14] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth. -[4984.14 --> 4987.44] Jesus, light in the darkness, -[4988.52 --> 4991.82] Jesus, truth in your circumstance, -[4991.82 --> 4998.82] you are the torch of heaven's light on earth. -[4999.28 --> 5002.98] In history you lived and died, -[5003.28 --> 5005.22] you broke the chains, -[5005.28 --> 5007.22] you rose to life. -[5008.28 --> 5012.06] You are the hope living in us, -[5012.46 --> 5016.06] you are the love in whom we trust. -[5016.06 --> 5041.36] Lord, we believe. -[5041.36 --> 5052.10] Jesus, hope of the nations, -[5052.10 --> 5056.82] Jesus, comfort for all who own. -[5056.82 --> 5064.00] You are the source of heaven's love on earth. -[5064.00 --> 5067.58] Jesus, light in the darkness, -[5068.58 --> 5071.82] Jesus, truth in your circumstance, -[5071.82 --> 5078.82] you are the source of heaven's light on earth. -[5078.82 --> 5082.82] In history you lived and died, -[5083.14 --> 5085.00] you broke the chains, -[5085.16 --> 5087.14] you rose to life. -[5088.38 --> 5091.82] You are the hope living in us, -[5091.82 --> 5095.82] you are the love in whom we trust. -[5096.24 --> 5101.64] You are the light shining for all the world to see. -[5103.56 --> 5105.52] You rose from the dead, -[5106.02 --> 5107.44] conquering fear, -[5107.90 --> 5109.48] worth and peace of peace, -[5109.90 --> 5111.36] drawing us near, -[5111.90 --> 5113.36] Jesus, hope, -[5113.86 --> 5117.48] living for all who will and see. -[5117.48 --> 5121.48] Lord, we believe. -[5121.48 --> 5124.54] Lord, we believe. -[5126.50 --> 5128.64] Lord, we believe. -[5128.64 --> 5135.40] you are the love trong an encounter. -[5137.58 --> 5141.72] So you are the true you are the utmost of our defores and the Donna Mama nhưng. -[5142.42 --> 5144.30] You are the ideals of가민ana ... -[5144.44 --> 5145.28] our reassemble hope. -[5146.94 --> 5148.38] God ba-rived family here. -[5149.14 --> 5149.74] Lord, we believe. -[5150.08 --> 5151.12] He will be they be our pale for you. -[5151.22 --> 5153.86] We believe in Acts Just Both neighbouring in this mois on behalf of all. -[5154.28 --> 5155.08] Amen! -[5155.30 --> 5156.50] We believe you will be there. -[5156.64 --> 5156.94] Amen! -[5156.94 --> 5186.92] Thank you. -[5186.94 --> 5216.92] Thank you. -[5216.94 --> 5246.92] Thank you. -[5246.94 --> 5276.92] Thank you. -[5276.94 --> 5306.92] Thank you. -[5306.94 --> 5336.92] Thank you. -[5336.94 --> 5366.92] Thank you. -[5366.94 --> 5396.92] Thank you. -[5396.94 --> 5426.92] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - Nov. 28, 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - Nov. 28, 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6c30b1ae186a6f53ca0446d336454775c453fd71..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - Nov. 28, 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,82 +0,0 @@ -• Christmas music and hymns -• Upcoming events: annual general meeting, HCBC for high school aged youth -• Introductions to the pastor and worship leaders -• Announcements about online meetings and event details -• Request for volunteers to assist with parking and direction -• Organization of flood response efforts by Gateway Christian Reformed Church in partnership with Christian Stewardship Services -• Collection of donation items from a list on the church website -• Donation drop-off locations at the church during specified days and times -• Financial donations can be made online through the Gateway website -• Volunteers are needed to transport donated items to Gateway CRC or pick up donations from congregants/residents -• Advent season and lighting candles in worship -• Hope for the coming of Christ -• Trusting in God's presence and power -• Waiting for salvation and deliverance -• Remembering God's faithfulness and mercy -• Lighting the candle of hope during Advent -• Praying for renewal and longing for a right relationship with God and creation -• Humbling hearts and filling them with hope for Christ's coming kingdom -• Emmanuel's coming to Israel -• Calling for God's peace, pardon, and help in a world at war -• Trusting in God as the source of strength and guidance -• Waiting on the Lord and hoping in His promises -• Recognizing God's holiness and responding with worship and praise -• Financial needs of the church and Cascade Christian Counseling -• Refugee Sponsorship Fund and a planned sponsorship of another family -• Church budget and upcoming expenses, including $30,000 for sponsorship -• Upcoming collection for flood response -• Ongoing flood-related issues affecting the community -• Offering thanksgiving and prayer for the congregation's generosity -• Memory verse and Bible reading -• Kids' Corner instruction activity -• Children's worship time story about the Israelites and God's instructions -• Blessing prayer with kids standing up -• Discussion of wedding text as this month's memory verse -• The speaker introduces the prayer and mentions a recent death in the DeFries family. -• The congregation is asked to pray for the DeFries' family, scattered across the continent, as well as those affected by flooding and the COVID-19 pandemic. -• The speaker prays for guidance, strength, and courage for those struggling with personal issues, including frontline workers and grieving families. -• Specific individuals and families are mentioned in prayer, including Pastor Dan, Dana, the Varshtras, Miles family, DeFreeses, Renita, and Elsa Hubert. -• Praying for healing and recovery from an injury -• Praying for guidance in serving the congregation and fulfilling responsibilities -• Appreciation for training and team-building among elders -• Acknowledgment of shortcomings and need for spiritual growth -• Requesting wisdom and leadership skills for pastors and leaders -• Expressing gratitude to sound and media personnel for their service -• Discussing idealization and romanticization of past and future times -• Romanticizing the future -• Difficulty of relationships and marriage -• Disillusionment with idealized ministries and service -• Comparing oneself to others on social media -• The problem of romanticizing events, people, and situations -• Distorting historical accounts, such as the nativity scene, into idealized versions -• Smashing the traditional and idyllic view of Christmas -• The goal is to understand the messy reality of the Christmas story, not just a clean or romanticized version -• Reading through Matthew 1:1-17, which lists Jesus' genealogy from Abraham to Joseph -• Exploring why some people may be uncomfortable with this portrayal of Christmas and how it will help them understand Jesus' importance -• The speaker's dad struggles to read a genealogy from First Chronicles in front of a crowd. -• The text highlights Jesus' family history as a series of flawed and sinful individuals. -• Jacob, Judah, Amon, Jehoram, Ahaz, and Manasseh are some examples of Jesus' ancestors who committed adultery, murder, idol worship, and other sinful acts. -• Despite the few good kings in the list, they are remembered for their sins rather than their good deeds. -• The inclusion of four women (Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba) in Jesus' genealogy is significant because it was uncommon to include women in ancient genealogies. -• These women demonstrate that Jesus came into a family that needed saving from its own sinfulness. -• Tamar's plan to get justice after being wronged by her father-in-law Judah -• The stories of four women (Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba) mentioned in Jesus' genealogy -• Their unconventional actions and faith: Tamar dresses as a prostitute, Rahab risks her life to save the spies, Ruth sticks with her mother-in-law despite cultural norms, Bathsheba is victimized by King David's lust but ultimately marries him and has a son who continues the royal bloodline -• The significance of these women being Gentiles in Jesus' genealogy, breaking down racial and national barriers -• How this highlights that Jesus came for everyone, not just Jews, and that his birth story includes people from different backgrounds and cultures -• The women in Jesus' genealogy (Rahab, Tamar, Bathsheba, and Ruth) subverted expectations by being involved in unexpected circumstances -• These women were used by God to move His plan forward despite their flawed situations -• Their stories foreshadow the type of Messiah that was coming from their bloodline: one who would subvert expectations -• Jesus' life and death also subverted expectations, as He was not a powerful king or military leader but a humble servant -• Jesus was born into a "messy" world to save "messy" people, and His birth, life, and death reflect the imperfections of humanity -• The Advent season should be acknowledged as messy and imperfect, rather than trying to make it neat and tidy -• Acknowledging the mess of the world is a necessary perspective for understanding the significance of Christ's coming and accomplishments. -• The importance of not romanticizing or trying to tidy up the world, but instead relying on God's redemption through Jesus' birth, life, death, and resurrection. -• Pastor Dan Hoagland visits from another congregation and leads in a blessing, sharing updates about his family and gratitude for the community. -• Repetition of the word "Amen" throughout the transcript -• Discussion of Jesus Christ as Son of God and Son of Man -• References to being born to suffer, save, and raise from the grave -• References to reigning forevermore and living for others -• Chants of "Noel, Noel" and "The story of amazing love" -• References to honor, light of the world, and being given for us -• Reference to a person named Her \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - Nov. 28, 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - Nov. 28, 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index db0c88ac6d4e14fd9f2e56a66ccd8d6793c7b4ed..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - Nov. 28, 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1271 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 11.64] He shall reign, he shall reign forevermore -[30.00 --> 49.32] Joy to the world on a night like no other -[49.32 --> 57.64] Emmanuel, God is with us -[57.64 --> 65.60] Deggars and kings, let us come and adore him -[65.60 --> 73.94] Rest in his peace and bow before him -[73.94 --> 80.64] Sing all your people, the Lord Almighty reigns -[80.64 --> 88.60] Sing every creature of God, bless his name -[88.60 --> 94.64] For he is good, for he is good -[94.64 --> 98.68] He was born to conquer the grave -[98.68 --> 103.62] Light of the world, the reason for Christmas -[103.62 --> 118.64] Stars we have seen over deserts and oceans -[118.64 --> 122.60] The darkness was teased -[122.60 --> 126.60] But never hopeless -[126.60 --> 130.60] Redemption came -[130.60 --> 134.56] And his name is Jesus -[134.56 --> 140.56] Sing all your people, the Lord Almighty reigns -[140.56 --> 148.56] Sing every creature of God, bless his name -[148.56 --> 154.52] For he is good, for he is good -[154.52 --> 158.52] He was born to conquer the grave -[158.52 --> 164.52] Light of the world, the reason for Christmas Day -[164.52 --> 174.48] From the mountains -[174.48 --> 176.48] We will shout it out -[176.48 --> 180.48] For the Lord our God Almighty reign -[180.48 --> 184.48] He is with us, he is with us now -[184.48 --> 192.44] For the Lord our God Almighty reigns -[192.44 --> 198.44] Sing all your people, the Lord Almighty reigns -[198.44 --> 212.40] Sing all your people, the Lord Almighty reigns -[212.40 --> 218.40] Sing every creature of God, come bless his name -[218.40 --> 220.40] For he is good, for he is good -[220.40 --> 222.40] For he is good, for he is good -[222.40 --> 224.40] For he is good -[224.40 --> 225.40] For he is good, for he is good -[225.40 --> 228.40] He was born to conquer the grave -[228.40 --> 233.40] Light of the world, the reason for Christmas Day -[233.40 --> 238.40] Sing all your people, the Lord Almighty reigns -[238.40 --> 239.40] Sing all your people, the Lord Almighty reigns -[239.40 --> 241.40] Sing every creature of God, come bless his name -[241.40 --> 246.40] Sing every creature of God, come bless his name -[246.40 --> 248.40] Sing all your people, the Lord Almighty reigns -[248.40 --> 249.40] Sing every creature of God -[249.40 --> 250.40] For he is good, for he is good -[250.40 --> 252.40] For he is good, for he is good -[252.40 --> 256.40] He was born to conquer the grave -[256.40 --> 262.40] Light of the world, the reason for Christmas Day -[262.40 --> 267.40] Light of the world, the reason for Christmas Day -[267.40 --> 270.40] Light of the world, the reason for Christmas Day -[270.40 --> 300.38] I love you -[300.40 --> 313.20] O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant -[313.20 --> 325.12] O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem -[325.12 --> 332.62] Come and behold Him -[332.62 --> 338.12] Born the King of Ages -[338.12 --> 344.78] O come, let us adore Him -[344.78 --> 351.12] O come, let us adore Him -[351.12 --> 356.62] O come, let us adore Him -[356.62 --> 363.62] Christ the Lord -[363.62 --> 379.38] Sing choirs of angels -[379.38 --> 386.04] Sing in exultation -[386.04 --> 397.38] Sing, all ye citizens of heaven above -[397.38 --> 405.18] Glory to God, O -[405.18 --> 410.38] Glory in the highest -[411.06 --> 417.38] O come, let us adore Him -[417.38 --> 423.82] O come, let us adore Him -[423.82 --> 430.38] O come, let us adore Him -[430.38 --> 447.38] O come, let us adore Him -[447.38 --> 449.38] I feel like my music isn't here -[449.38 --> 452.38] Does somebody... -[452.38 --> 458.70] Good morning -[458.70 --> 464.46] Welcome to worship -[464.46 --> 467.76] A special welcome if you are joining us online -[467.76 --> 469.96] My name is Chris -[469.96 --> 471.46] I'm one of the pastors here -[471.46 --> 474.82] And it's my privilege along with a few others here on stage -[474.82 --> 476.18] And some that you don't yet see -[476.18 --> 480.80] To lead you in our shared worship this morning -[480.80 --> 482.66] Before we begin -[482.66 --> 484.50] We have a couple announcements to make -[484.50 --> 487.68] And so as I'm making these first couple announcements -[487.68 --> 489.62] Emo, why don't you come on up here -[489.62 --> 491.42] So I can hand it off to you right away -[491.42 --> 495.22] First of all, just a reminder that -[495.22 --> 498.54] For those of you who are members here -[498.54 --> 500.76] And over the age of 18 -[500.76 --> 503.18] You are invited -[503.18 --> 505.24] And strongly encouraged -[505.24 --> 508.72] To join us for an annual general meeting -[508.72 --> 509.88] A congregational meeting -[509.88 --> 510.94] A church family meeting -[510.94 --> 511.96] Whatever you want to call it -[511.96 --> 513.84] On December 6th -[513.84 --> 515.28] Now that meeting will be on Zoom -[515.28 --> 516.68] And the link and information -[516.68 --> 518.40] And all that has been sent out to you -[518.40 --> 521.14] If you have no idea what I'm talking about -[521.14 --> 522.92] Contact the church office -[522.92 --> 525.32] And they will fill you in on those details -[525.32 --> 527.48] Also tonight -[527.48 --> 530.12] At 7pm -[530.12 --> 532.32] Is HCBC -[532.32 --> 536.36] For those high school aged youth -[536.36 --> 538.22] You know the details about that -[538.22 --> 540.12] If you do not know the details about that -[540.12 --> 541.02] Talk to Pastor Kevin -[541.02 --> 542.06] He's right there -[542.06 --> 543.76] And he will fill you in with that -[543.76 --> 545.54] Also -[545.54 --> 547.74] This afternoon -[547.74 --> 548.76] At the -[548.76 --> 552.92] Celebration of Life and Memorial Service -[552.92 --> 553.74] For Dave -[553.74 --> 557.70] We are hoping to have a few additional volunteers -[557.70 --> 559.10] For parking -[559.10 --> 560.80] Direction and control -[560.80 --> 561.86] And so -[561.86 --> 562.32] Rob -[562.32 --> 562.90] Where are you? -[564.26 --> 565.20] Rob in the back -[565.20 --> 566.04] Oh he's way out there -[566.04 --> 566.50] In the foyer -[566.50 --> 568.08] If you can help -[568.08 --> 569.40] With parking assistance -[569.40 --> 570.16] And direction -[570.16 --> 571.68] Please talk to Rob -[571.68 --> 572.70] After the service -[572.70 --> 573.14] Rob's -[573.14 --> 574.18] The guy back there -[574.18 --> 575.26] Waving his hand frantically -[575.26 --> 575.66] Yep -[575.66 --> 576.94] Frantically Rob -[576.94 --> 577.38] Frantically -[577.38 --> 578.52] There it is -[578.52 --> 579.00] Thank you -[579.00 --> 579.74] Very good -[579.74 --> 580.92] Connect with him -[580.92 --> 582.44] And he will give you details -[582.44 --> 583.96] On what that looks like -[583.96 --> 585.28] Emo -[585.28 --> 585.96] Why don't you go ahead -[585.96 --> 589.78] Yeah -[589.78 --> 590.34] Good morning -[590.34 --> 591.94] I've got an announcement -[591.94 --> 593.46] Regarding the Abbotsford -[593.46 --> 595.28] Flood response -[595.28 --> 597.76] I know over the last two weeks -[597.76 --> 599.64] We've all been wondering -[599.64 --> 600.56] What can we do -[600.56 --> 602.12] What can we do -[602.12 --> 603.02] In a meaningful way -[603.02 --> 603.58] Thank you -[603.58 --> 606.22] To help out the people -[606.22 --> 608.72] In the Abbotsford flood zone -[608.72 --> 611.78] Gateway Christian Reformed Church -[611.78 --> 614.48] Have organized a flood response -[614.48 --> 616.30] In partnership with -[616.30 --> 618.36] Christian Stewardship Services -[618.36 --> 621.60] On the Gateway CRC website -[621.60 --> 624.18] They have a flood response section -[624.18 --> 626.30] Where they have a donation list -[626.30 --> 629.62] Of items that are required -[629.62 --> 630.60] For the victims -[630.60 --> 632.78] And that are urgently needed -[632.78 --> 634.60] They are storing -[634.60 --> 636.62] And distributing these items -[636.62 --> 638.30] As they come in -[638.30 --> 640.22] At the church -[640.22 --> 641.96] As deacons -[641.96 --> 643.66] We decided that our congregation -[643.66 --> 645.98] Would willingly help -[645.98 --> 647.12] By donating items -[647.12 --> 647.96] From the list -[647.96 --> 651.30] And these little lists -[651.30 --> 652.82] Have been distributed -[652.82 --> 654.00] With the bulletin -[654.00 --> 659.08] We could help -[659.08 --> 660.14] By donating items -[660.14 --> 660.76] From the list -[660.76 --> 661.72] And dropping them off -[661.72 --> 662.44] At our church -[662.44 --> 663.62] Throughout the week -[663.62 --> 666.04] Tuesday through Friday -[666.04 --> 667.72] Or on Sunday mornings -[667.72 --> 670.20] The church will be closed -[670.20 --> 671.86] For donations on Mondays -[671.86 --> 675.48] Donated items -[675.48 --> 676.30] Will be forwarded -[676.30 --> 677.16] To Gateway Church -[677.16 --> 678.00] By volunteers -[678.00 --> 679.44] Throughout the week -[679.44 --> 680.82] As required -[680.82 --> 682.84] As individuals -[682.84 --> 684.06] We can donate -[684.06 --> 685.48] Financially -[685.48 --> 687.46] To the Abbotsford flood response -[687.46 --> 690.36] Through the online -[690.36 --> 692.12] Gateway website -[692.12 --> 695.12] Please contact the deacons -[695.12 --> 696.98] If you have donation items -[696.98 --> 698.04] That need to be picked up -[698.04 --> 699.10] From your residence -[699.10 --> 701.78] Also contact the deacons -[701.78 --> 702.52] If you are willing -[702.52 --> 703.46] To volunteer -[703.46 --> 704.78] To transport -[704.78 --> 706.06] Donated items -[706.06 --> 706.92] From our church -[706.92 --> 708.32] To Gateway CRC -[708.32 --> 710.12] Or to pick up -[710.12 --> 711.02] Donations from -[711.02 --> 711.86] Congregants -[711.86 --> 712.70] Residents -[712.70 --> 714.62] Who are donating items -[714.62 --> 716.20] We hope to have -[716.20 --> 717.00] More information -[717.00 --> 718.80] On the Abbotsford flood -[718.80 --> 719.46] Response -[719.46 --> 721.56] Through the -[721.56 --> 723.08] Midweek bulletin -[723.08 --> 725.50] We continue to pray -[725.50 --> 726.44] For God's mercy -[726.44 --> 727.58] And comfort -[727.58 --> 728.32] To those -[728.32 --> 729.08] Who have been -[729.08 --> 730.16] Affected by the flooding -[730.16 --> 731.56] And that he will -[731.56 --> 732.44] Provide blessings -[732.44 --> 732.96] To them -[732.96 --> 734.34] In the long term solution -[734.34 --> 735.38] Thank you -[735.38 --> 743.66] So as Emo said -[743.66 --> 744.24] There's a card -[744.24 --> 744.82] That you can grab -[744.82 --> 745.42] On the way out -[745.42 --> 746.64] If you have any questions -[746.64 --> 747.94] You can talk to him -[747.94 --> 749.18] Following service as well -[749.18 --> 750.66] I'm going to invite you -[750.66 --> 751.44] Where you are -[751.44 --> 752.56] And if you are able -[752.56 --> 753.36] To stand -[753.36 --> 754.42] And we can be -[754.42 --> 755.42] Called into -[755.42 --> 756.46] God's presence -[756.46 --> 757.46] And welcomed there -[757.46 --> 759.34] With his greeting -[759.34 --> 765.42] We gather together -[765.42 --> 766.28] As the body of Christ -[766.28 --> 767.24] And we are welcomed -[767.24 --> 768.56] Into God's presence -[768.56 --> 769.24] Receive -[769.24 --> 770.28] His greeting -[770.28 --> 772.00] Grace -[772.00 --> 773.34] Mercy -[773.34 --> 774.66] And peace to you -[774.66 --> 775.54] From God -[775.54 --> 776.00] Our Father -[776.00 --> 776.50] From the Lord -[776.50 --> 777.18] Jesus Christ -[777.18 --> 777.74] His Son -[777.74 --> 778.72] And our Savior -[778.72 --> 779.74] Through the presence -[779.74 --> 780.42] And power -[780.42 --> 781.84] Of the Holy Spirit -[781.84 --> 783.70] Amen -[783.70 --> 786.02] As you know -[786.02 --> 786.82] It is the season -[786.82 --> 787.50] Of Advent -[787.50 --> 788.46] And so we -[788.46 --> 789.36] Each week -[789.36 --> 790.20] We'll mark that -[790.20 --> 790.84] Progression -[790.84 --> 791.78] And anticipation -[791.78 --> 793.50] By lighting candles -[793.50 --> 794.44] In our worship -[794.44 --> 796.10] And with an Advent liturgy -[796.10 --> 796.86] And as Steve -[796.86 --> 797.28] And Linda -[797.28 --> 798.36] Are making their way up -[798.36 --> 799.76] We're going to -[799.76 --> 800.80] Come to God -[800.80 --> 801.26] That way -[801.26 --> 815.80] Lord to you -[815.80 --> 818.18] We lift our souls -[818.18 --> 819.28] As we eagerly -[819.28 --> 819.30] As we eagerly -[819.30 --> 820.32] Await your coming -[820.32 --> 822.86] In you God -[822.86 --> 823.72] We put our trust -[823.72 --> 824.44] As we are filled -[824.44 --> 824.94] With hope -[824.94 --> 825.86] For your arrival -[825.86 --> 831.00] While we wait -[831.00 --> 831.52] For you -[831.52 --> 832.80] Do not let us -[832.80 --> 833.80] Be put to shame -[833.80 --> 836.10] While we wait -[836.10 --> 836.54] For you -[836.54 --> 837.84] Do not remember -[837.84 --> 838.90] The sins of our youth -[838.90 --> 842.08] Lead us -[842.08 --> 843.08] In your truth -[843.08 --> 845.18] And teach us -[845.18 --> 847.00] For you -[847.00 --> 847.52] For you are the God -[847.52 --> 848.42] Of our salvation -[848.42 --> 850.04] And for you -[850.04 --> 851.62] We wait all day long -[851.62 --> 863.34] We light the candle -[863.34 --> 864.50] Of hope this week -[864.50 --> 865.60] Because we know -[865.60 --> 866.70] The Lord's mercy -[866.70 --> 868.44] And steadfast love -[868.44 --> 870.00] Has been from old -[870.00 --> 872.12] All of the Lord's works -[872.12 --> 873.94] Display God's faithfulness -[873.94 --> 875.14] So we know -[875.14 --> 876.00] We have a hope -[876.00 --> 876.76] For the future -[876.76 --> 882.36] We can wait -[882.36 --> 883.64] With hopeful expectation -[883.64 --> 884.40] Because the Lord -[884.40 --> 885.38] Is good and upright -[885.38 --> 886.86] Surely the Lord -[886.86 --> 887.74] Will come and lead us -[887.74 --> 888.84] In what is right -[888.84 --> 891.86] Let's pray together -[891.86 --> 895.32] We pray God of hope -[895.32 --> 896.72] As we wait for you -[896.72 --> 898.74] Please send your spirit -[898.74 --> 900.22] To renew our longing -[900.22 --> 901.32] For the days -[901.32 --> 902.74] When all will be made right -[902.74 --> 903.82] In our relationships -[903.82 --> 904.60] With you -[904.60 --> 905.68] One another -[905.68 --> 907.26] And your creation -[907.26 --> 910.32] As we wait for those days -[910.32 --> 911.28] Give us eyes -[911.28 --> 912.52] To see your faithfulness -[912.52 --> 913.52] And ears to hear -[913.52 --> 914.20] Of your goodness -[914.20 --> 915.54] So that our hearts -[915.54 --> 916.26] May be humbled -[916.26 --> 917.32] And filled with hope -[917.32 --> 918.78] For Christ's coming kingdom -[918.78 --> 920.80] In Jesus name we pray -[920.80 --> 921.74] Amen -[948.78 --> 950.80] O come, O come, Emmanuel -[950.80 --> 962.88] O come, Emmanuel -[962.88 --> 967.28] Let that son captive -[967.28 --> 977.28] If it's well, the thorns in all the exile -[977.28 --> 985.28] Until the Son of God are near -[985.28 --> 994.28] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel -[994.28 --> 1001.28] Shall come to thee, O Israel -[1001.28 --> 1012.28] O come, thou hast of God on high -[1012.28 --> 1019.28] Who ordered all things I tell thee -[1019.28 --> 1026.28] To us not have the promise shown -[1026.28 --> 1033.28] And teach us in its ways to go -[1033.28 --> 1042.28] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel -[1042.28 --> 1049.28] Shall come to thee, O Israel -[1049.28 --> 1058.28] O come, thou branch of justice -[1058.28 --> 1060.28] And let us be stand -[1060.28 --> 1067.28] Unto thine own and rescue them -[1067.28 --> 1075.28] From depths of hell your people save -[1075.28 --> 1082.28] And give the victory on the grave -[1082.28 --> 1090.28] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel -[1090.28 --> 1097.28] Shall come to thee, O Israel -[1097.28 --> 1102.28] O Israel -[1102.28 --> 1107.28] O come, thou hast of nations -[1107.28 --> 1114.28] O ye worlds in one heart and now -[1114.28 --> 1119.28] In all the sanctification seas -[1119.28 --> 1121.28] And give the victory on the grave -[1121.28 --> 1123.28] O God, thou hast of nations -[1123.28 --> 1124.28] And give the victory on the grave -[1124.28 --> 1126.28] And give the victory on the grave -[1126.28 --> 1128.28] And give the victory on the grave -[1128.28 --> 1130.28] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel -[1130.28 --> 1140.28] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel -[1140.28 --> 1145.28] Shall come to thee, O Israel -[1145.28 --> 1151.28] O promised Christ -[1151.28 --> 1154.28] O promised Christ -[1154.28 --> 1157.28] We are a world at war -[1157.28 --> 1160.28] Our peace depends on your coming -[1160.28 --> 1162.28] We are a sinful people -[1162.28 --> 1165.28] Our pardon depends on your coming -[1165.28 --> 1167.28] We are full of good intentions -[1167.28 --> 1170.28] But weak at keeping promises -[1170.28 --> 1172.28] Our only hope of doing God's will -[1172.28 --> 1176.28] Is that you should come and help us do it -[1176.28 --> 1179.28] Lord Christ, word made flesh -[1179.28 --> 1181.28] Our world waits -[1181.28 --> 1182.28] For your peace -[1182.28 --> 1183.28] For your pardon -[1183.28 --> 1184.28] And for your grace -[1184.28 --> 1188.28] O come, O come, Lord Jesus -[1188.28 --> 1189.28] Amen -[1209.28 --> 1222.28] Still, my soul be still -[1222.28 --> 1226.28] And do not fear -[1226.28 --> 1230.28] The winds of change may rage tomorrow -[1230.28 --> 1236.28] God is not your son -[1236.28 --> 1238.28] No longer tread -[1238.28 --> 1243.28] The fires of unexpected sorrow -[1243.28 --> 1249.28] God, you are my God -[1249.28 --> 1252.28] And I will trust in you -[1252.28 --> 1257.28] And God be shaken -[1257.28 --> 1262.28] Lord, the peace we will -[1262.28 --> 1264.28] For your steadfast spirit -[1264.28 --> 1266.28] And in me -[1266.28 --> 1272.28] To rest in you alone -[1272.28 --> 1278.28] Still, my soul be still -[1278.28 --> 1281.28] You will my soul be still -[1281.28 --> 1285.28] You will not be through -[1285.28 --> 1288.28] My master, my sanctification -[1288.28 --> 1295.28] All unto its praise -[1295.28 --> 1298.28] With shield of faith -[1298.28 --> 1301.28] Against temptation's pain -[1301.28 --> 1302.28] And in me -[1302.28 --> 1304.28] And in me -[1304.28 --> 1305.28] And in me -[1305.28 --> 1308.28] Lord, you are my God -[1308.28 --> 1310.28] And I will trust in you -[1310.28 --> 1312.28] And God be shaken -[1312.28 --> 1314.28] Lord, the peace renew -[1314.28 --> 1316.28] And I will trust in you -[1316.28 --> 1319.28] Amen -[1319.28 --> 1321.28] Come, the peace renew -[1321.28 --> 1323.28] I'll send my spirit -[1323.28 --> 1325.28] And in me -[1325.28 --> 1327.28] To rest in you alone -[1327.28 --> 1329.28] Still, my soul be still -[1329.28 --> 1342.12] Still, my soul, be still -[1342.12 --> 1349.94] Do not forsake the truth you learned in the beginning -[1349.94 --> 1359.12] Wait upon the Lord and hope will rise -[1359.12 --> 1363.66] As stars appear, the prayers are living -[1363.66 --> 1369.34] Lord, you are my God -[1369.34 --> 1375.92] And I will trust in you and I'll be shaken -[1375.92 --> 1382.40] Lord, I'll peace with you -[1382.40 --> 1390.42] As you must be with me to rest in you -[1390.42 --> 1395.66] Lord, you are my love -[1395.66 --> 1402.36] And I will trust in you and love me shaken -[1402.36 --> 1408.84] Lord, I'll peace with you -[1408.84 --> 1418.84] As you must be with me to rest in you alone -[1418.84 --> 1425.32] Lord, I'll peace with you -[1425.32 --> 1449.42] All the poor are powerless -[1449.42 --> 1455.90] And all the lost and lonely -[1455.90 --> 1462.96] And all the thieves will come to death -[1462.96 --> 1467.90] And know that you are holy -[1467.90 --> 1474.38] And know that you are holy -[1474.38 --> 1483.72] And all we'll sing out hallelujah -[1483.72 --> 1490.38] And we will cry out hallelujah -[1490.38 --> 1498.28] All the lost and more content -[1498.28 --> 1505.86] And all who feel unworthy -[1505.86 --> 1511.86] And all who hurt your loving man -[1511.86 --> 1513.86] unworthy -[1513.86 --> 1517.82] and all who -[1517.82 --> 1519.20] hurt and love -[1519.20 --> 1523.44] will know -[1523.44 --> 1525.86] that you are holy -[1525.86 --> 1530.02] and all -[1530.02 --> 1531.80] will sing -[1531.80 --> 1533.86] hallelujah -[1533.86 --> 1537.62] and we will -[1537.62 --> 1538.60] cry -[1538.60 --> 1539.86] hallelujah -[1541.86 --> 1544.22] and all who -[1544.22 --> 1545.42] sing -[1545.42 --> 1547.86] hallelujah -[1548.92 --> 1549.86] and we -[1549.86 --> 1551.86] will cry -[1552.30 --> 1553.86] hallelujah -[1556.32 --> 1559.86] hallelujah -[1559.86 --> 1563.86] hallelujah -[1563.86 --> 1567.86] hallelujah -[1567.86 --> 1569.86] hallelujah -[1569.86 --> 1580.74] Shout it, go on and scream it from the mountains -[1580.74 --> 1588.74] Go on and tell it to the masses -[1588.74 --> 1596.74] That He is God -[1596.74 --> 1606.34] Shout it, go on and scream it from the mountains -[1606.34 --> 1613.10] Go on and tell it to the masses -[1613.10 --> 1619.62] That He is God -[1619.62 --> 1626.72] Shout it, go on and scream it from the mountains -[1626.72 --> 1633.20] Go on and scream it from the mountains -[1633.20 --> 1639.84] Go on and tell it to the masses -[1639.84 --> 1646.32] That He is God -[1646.32 --> 1656.80] We will sing a hallelujah -[1656.80 --> 1663.80] We will cry a hallelujah -[1663.80 --> 1670.28] We will sing a hallelujah -[1670.28 --> 1686.76] Shout it, go on and scream it from the mountains -[1686.76 --> 1693.24] Go on and tell it to the masses -[1693.24 --> 1699.72] That He is God -[1699.72 --> 1713.72] Shout it, go on and scream it from the mountains -[1713.72 --> 1720.20] Go on and tell it to the masses -[1720.20 --> 1726.20] That He is God -[1726.20 --> 1736.68] We invite you to be seated -[1736.68 --> 1747.16] Thank you -[1747.16 --> 1770.18] Good morning -[1770.18 --> 1774.66] Today's offerings are for our church budget -[1774.66 --> 1777.72] And Cascade Christian Counseling -[1777.72 --> 1783.96] Which is a non-profit organization that has been in operation for over 35 years -[1783.96 --> 1790.04] They offer a caring faith-based approach to helping people move towards healing -[1790.04 --> 1796.80] The funds raised help to provide lower session fees to those who can't afford to get the help they need -[1796.80 --> 1800.68] You may also give a donation to the Abbotsford Flood Response -[1800.68 --> 1805.98] Just remember all donations will go to Cascade Christian Counseling unless otherwise noted -[1805.98 --> 1806.68] Thank you -[1806.68 --> 1820.40] Next week we're having a collection for the Refugee Sponsorship Fund -[1820.40 --> 1822.40] And you're probably wondering -[1822.40 --> 1826.64] There's certainly a lot to give to these days -[1826.64 --> 1829.28] But I just want to highlight it for a moment -[1829.28 --> 1832.18] So you will also note in the bulletin -[1832.18 --> 1837.98] That the family that we had planned on sponsoring -[1837.98 --> 1840.10] Was able to get out of Sudan -[1840.10 --> 1842.96] And so we will no longer be following that up -[1842.96 --> 1846.96] But we have our plans on sponsoring another family -[1846.96 --> 1851.24] And one of the requirements now that the government has put on -[1851.24 --> 1854.30] Is that we need to have money in the bank -[1854.30 --> 1858.12] Before and they want to see it there before we can do the sponsorship -[1858.12 --> 1861.24] Which means we need to at some point build up $30,000 -[1861.24 --> 1864.36] Now we have about $2,000 in the fund -[1864.36 --> 1868.36] And but so as you're thinking ahead to next week -[1868.36 --> 1870.82] Please keep that in mind as well -[1870.82 --> 1874.66] Because we do want to continue with this ministry -[1874.66 --> 1879.22] And this congregation has been very very supportive of this initiative in the past -[1879.22 --> 1882.64] And so anyway I just want to highlight it -[1882.64 --> 1886.46] And next week I'll be up here again to give a little bit more information -[1886.46 --> 1890.46] So keep that in your mind too as you're thinking ahead to the end of the year -[1890.46 --> 1891.70] The church has a budget -[1891.70 --> 1893.78] We've done some upgrading -[1893.78 --> 1895.36] There's the floods -[1895.36 --> 1897.50] I know it just seems endless -[1897.50 --> 1900.02] But please keep that in your in your minds -[1900.02 --> 1901.30] And in your thoughts and in prayers -[1901.30 --> 1903.84] And give what God lays upon your heart to give -[1903.84 --> 1904.30] Thank you -[1904.30 --> 1934.28] Thank you. -[1934.30 --> 1964.28] Thank you. -[1964.30 --> 1971.30] God by every word -[1971.30 --> 1979.30] That no seeds come the mouth of God -[1979.98 --> 1986.30] Allelu, Alleluia -[1986.30 --> 1988.30] Now -[1988.30 --> 1996.30] As and it shall be given unto you -[1996.30 --> 2002.30] Secretly shall come -[2002.30 --> 2012.30] Now and the door shall be opened to you -[2012.30 --> 2019.30] Allelu, Alleluia -[2019.30 --> 2029.30] Alleluia -[2029.30 --> 2036.30] Alleluia -[2036.30 --> 2044.30] Alleluia -[2044.30 --> 2052.30] Allelu, Alleluia -[2052.30 --> 2054.30] Alleluia -[2054.30 --> 2056.30] Alleluia -[2056.30 --> 2068.30] Alleluia -[2068.30 --> 2074.30] Alright kids, I'm gonna invite you to come right up here today because my chair is gone, I see -[2074.30 --> 2081.44] So I'm going to sit here, and if you're any age, but particularly age 3 up to grade 4, come on up. -[2094.52 --> 2095.18] All right. -[2096.14 --> 2099.46] So you guys know that every month that we have a memory verse, -[2099.78 --> 2103.96] and at the end of the month, if you recite the memory verse, then you get a prize. -[2103.96 --> 2111.62] But I think you have an extra week this month because Mrs. Karis and Mrs. Amy both are not here to give you the prize. -[2112.02 --> 2114.10] So we're going to practice it one more time up here. -[2114.62 --> 2119.20] And then I think next week, if you know the memory verse, then she'll be around to do that. -[2119.34 --> 2124.52] So, and for the whole church, if you guys can join in, we'd like everyone to be involved, right? -[2125.98 --> 2126.34] Okay. -[2126.48 --> 2131.18] So I'm just going to do, some of you guys might know this already, but I'll just read one line, -[2131.18 --> 2132.82] and then you guys repeat it back to me. -[2132.82 --> 2135.68] And then I'll read the next line, and then you repeat it, and we'll do it that way. -[2135.96 --> 2136.16] Okay. -[2136.28 --> 2139.90] So everyone here, I invite everyone here to join in. -[2140.04 --> 2141.42] So this is from Proverbs 3. -[2141.42 --> 2142.42] Proverbs 3. -[2142.42 --> 2144.76] Trust in the Lord with all your heart. -[2148.10 --> 2150.82] And lean not on your own understanding. -[2154.52 --> 2156.90] In all your ways, acknowledge him. -[2160.20 --> 2162.58] And he will make your path straight. -[2165.70 --> 2168.00] Proverbs 3, verse 5 to 6. -[2168.00 --> 2168.56] Proverbs 3. -[2171.42 --> 2172.56] Excellent job. -[2172.56 --> 2176.56] So just a reminder, you can always grab one of these from the sign-in booth over there. -[2177.24 --> 2181.64] Now, before we go to children's worship time, I have something to tell you. -[2181.72 --> 2184.82] But before, I would like you guys all to stand up for these instructions. -[2185.32 --> 2188.28] Normally, we sit down in Kids' Corner, but today I thought we're going to stand up. -[2188.68 --> 2194.14] And I would like you guys to put one of your hands on your head and a finger on your nose. -[2194.14 --> 2196.70] And now I want you to jump in circles. -[2197.04 --> 2197.18] Okay. -[2198.38 --> 2201.16] I think it makes more sense if we do Kids' Corner like this. -[2201.82 --> 2202.46] Do you guys agree? -[2202.56 --> 2204.72] I think it makes more sense. -[2206.30 --> 2206.62] Okay. -[2206.72 --> 2207.28] Stop, stop, stop. -[2207.36 --> 2207.74] You don't think? -[2207.82 --> 2207.96] Okay. -[2207.98 --> 2209.34] I'll give you something different instead. -[2209.56 --> 2217.66] So instead of doing that, I'd like you to reach your hands as high as you can and then touch the ground with your hands. -[2217.66 --> 2220.46] Well, like up and down like this. -[2220.72 --> 2221.18] Like that. -[2221.38 --> 2222.92] And do that as fast as you can. -[2223.54 --> 2225.52] Well, we could do Kids' Corner like that instead. -[2225.68 --> 2227.08] That could make sense. -[2230.72 --> 2231.46] It's a little bit. -[2231.58 --> 2233.00] Well, I could make everyone do that. -[2233.06 --> 2234.82] Should I make everyone do that next time? -[2235.48 --> 2235.84] No? -[2236.72 --> 2237.56] I could do that. -[2237.60 --> 2238.72] So you guys can sit down. -[2239.20 --> 2243.42] I wanted to do that just for a little example because today in children's worship time, -[2243.42 --> 2248.90] we are going to read a story where a group of people called the Israelites, we all know about those guys, -[2249.26 --> 2253.12] they were given some instructions and they didn't really make a lot of sense to them. -[2253.22 --> 2255.14] It wasn't the normal way to do things. -[2255.48 --> 2261.44] So here we normally sit down and you get to listen to one of us talk to you or something like that. -[2261.88 --> 2263.22] We don't usually jump around in circles. -[2263.30 --> 2265.64] But if I tell you to do that, you guys all did it. -[2266.12 --> 2266.38] Right? -[2266.54 --> 2267.52] Well, most of you did it. -[2267.64 --> 2270.78] So that was really good following instructions even though it didn't make a lot of sense. -[2270.78 --> 2273.38] So we're going to learn about how the Israelites had to do that. -[2273.42 --> 2276.90] And how God's instructions ended up making sense in the end. -[2277.84 --> 2281.32] So now I'm going to get you to stand up again because for the blessing we always stand up. -[2281.38 --> 2282.68] So everyone can stand up. -[2282.84 --> 2284.54] And we're going to face this way, kids. -[2287.64 --> 2288.12] All right. -[2288.16 --> 2288.54] Are you ready? -[2290.04 --> 2291.72] The Lord is ready. -[2303.42 --> 2303.86] The Lord is ready. -[2303.90 --> 2304.90] The Lord is breathe. -[2304.90 --> 2305.00] By the cheek. -[2305.24 --> 2305.82] God's erstmal wife. -[2305.96 --> 2306.20] By the way. -[2306.42 --> 2306.46] The Lord is ready. -[2309.36 --> 2310.38] The Lord is ready. -[2310.38 --> 2312.12] Because our Lord is doing this to all things. -[2312.62 --> 2314.22] I have been ready. -[2314.28 --> 2314.90] We're ready to pray. -[2315.00 --> 2316.34] Because our Lord is ready. -[2316.38 --> 2318.24] And when we can still stand up. -[2318.36 --> 2319.40] I have done is� a littleience. -[2319.54 --> 2321.64] I love the buffs and we are ready for that. -[2321.82 --> 2322.80] We have to come. -[2322.82 --> 2323.74] And if he does that, we're ready for everything. -[2323.76 --> 2325.42] And everyone can actually respond to me and he's gonna make it awesome try like that. -[2325.78 --> 2327.76] So doing the遣 زers of that lift is where I am a normal force. -[2327.96 --> 2329.74] And they love him to focus onoded now. -[2329.74 --> 2344.68] Good morning. -[2353.26 --> 2358.50] It's great to hear that our memory verse for this month is also our wedding text. -[2358.50 --> 2367.04] You would think that would make it easier for me to remember, but due to old age, you -[2367.04 --> 2369.14] get forgetful sometimes, but it is great. -[2369.26 --> 2369.62] Thank you. -[2371.32 --> 2377.04] My name is John, and I'm one of the elders here, and I want to lead you in prayer this -[2377.04 --> 2377.34] morning. -[2379.20 --> 2384.70] The list in our bulletin is long for the things that we are asked to keep in prayer. -[2384.70 --> 2392.66] One of the items that is not listed there, I want to just let you know that Peter DeFries' -[2392.66 --> 2398.60] brother Clarence, who had lived in California, has passed away this past week. -[2398.60 --> 2402.48] He was 87 years old, and he died of cancer. -[2404.44 --> 2409.30] And we are asked to, not asked, but we would also like to keep his family, and also the -[2409.30 --> 2415.22] family at large in prayer, and the family is scattered throughout the continent, east coast -[2415.22 --> 2418.88] in Canada, west coast here, and also in the States. -[2419.36 --> 2424.48] So we'd like to keep the DeFries' in our prayers this coming week also. -[2424.48 --> 2427.04] Shall we come to the Lord in prayer? -[2432.70 --> 2435.86] Heavenly Father, we bow our heads before you this morning. -[2439.64 --> 2442.38] Lord, it is great to be here. -[2445.34 --> 2447.82] Lord, the week sometimes is hard. -[2447.82 --> 2455.94] Lord, as Lord, we struggle through so many things these days, and yet we come here, we -[2455.94 --> 2462.74] pray with glad hearts, and some come, Lord, struggling also, and that we may come here to rejoice and -[2462.74 --> 2464.14] to worship you. -[2464.66 --> 2467.16] That we may do so in word and in song. -[2468.96 --> 2472.22] That we may do so, Lord, in spirit and in truth. -[2472.22 --> 2490.02] Lord, we sang this morning also, and we pray, Lord, that we may shout out your name, and that others may hear of you, may know of you, and Lord, and come to accept you. -[2490.50 --> 2493.50] Lord, we pray that you would use even us. -[2493.50 --> 2497.50] And Lord, we... -[2497.50 --> 2506.42] As much as, Lord, we have prayed that, still, Lord, we know that each of us struggles, and -[2506.42 --> 2510.78] we struggle in so many ways, and we fall short. -[2510.94 --> 2513.54] We pray, Lord, forgive us where we have wronged. -[2514.48 --> 2519.52] We pray, Lord, that each day again, each moment of our lives, that your spirit would work in -[2519.52 --> 2522.20] our hearts to lead us and guide us in all that we do. -[2523.50 --> 2531.14] And Lord, through this week also, again, Lord, the rains continued. -[2532.92 --> 2535.90] We have also experienced beautiful sunny days. -[2539.88 --> 2544.34] And yet, Lord, there are still many who struggle through the floods, and as waters recede in -[2544.34 --> 2546.88] areas, waters increase in other areas. -[2546.88 --> 2548.88] Lord, we... -[2548.88 --> 2550.88] Lord, we... -[2550.88 --> 2552.76] We have many... -[2552.76 --> 2557.56] Many of us have friends, but also family members who are struggling through this crisis. -[2559.80 --> 2560.88] Lord, we... -[2561.44 --> 2568.60] Many of us also wonder, how may we help, and what is the best way to work through this? -[2568.60 --> 2571.58] And we pray, Lord, that you would open our eyes to that. -[2574.06 --> 2579.34] And Lord, as our hearts open up, may we give in the many different ways that are possible. -[2579.70 --> 2583.36] Our time, our funds, of goods, Lord. -[2583.46 --> 2587.14] We pray that you would lead us and guide us through this. -[2588.44 --> 2594.02] There are many, Lord, who still struggle through the COVID pandemic as well. -[2594.02 --> 2599.70] And Lord, as new variants show up, and for many, Lord, that too is a worry. -[2601.16 --> 2606.90] May we here too, Lord, lean on you for understanding, for guidance, for strength. -[2610.10 --> 2612.40] And Lord, there are many who work through these things also. -[2612.58 --> 2615.36] And we pray for doctors and other frontline workers. -[2615.36 --> 2623.06] Lord, as they continue to struggle also with the stress that is put on them, -[2623.14 --> 2627.70] that they too would be given courage through you, Lord, that they may continue to do their work. -[2630.18 --> 2631.36] Lord, we... -[2631.92 --> 2634.36] Thank you this morning also that... -[2635.50 --> 2638.02] Pastor Dan and Dana may be here in our midst. -[2638.24 --> 2639.86] Lord, we thank you for them. -[2640.00 --> 2641.36] We pray, Lord, that... -[2641.36 --> 2646.54] In his work on the East Coast also, that you would bless them there. -[2647.28 --> 2650.66] We pray, Lord, that this weekend may be a blessing for them here also. -[2651.46 --> 2652.36] Lord, we... -[2654.36 --> 2658.24] Pray for the many who grieve at this time also. -[2658.44 --> 2660.20] We pray for the Varshtras. -[2660.32 --> 2661.70] We pray for the Miles family. -[2661.94 --> 2663.32] We pray for the DeFreeses. -[2666.26 --> 2667.36] Lord, we... -[2668.36 --> 2670.00] Pray for Renita and the family also. -[2670.00 --> 2672.00] As later today, they... -[2673.00 --> 2676.00] Have a service in where we may remember Dave and... -[2677.26 --> 2679.00] Lord, the gift that he was... -[2680.00 --> 2682.36] To us also and to his family. -[2684.42 --> 2686.00] And Lord, through these times... -[2687.64 --> 2690.00] Many of us will also recall... -[2690.58 --> 2692.20] Deaths within our own families. -[2694.52 --> 2697.00] Lord, these memories come back... -[2697.64 --> 2699.00] And they too hurt... -[2700.00 --> 2703.00] We pray, Lord, for each of us... -[2703.00 --> 2704.34] That you would give us strength. -[2705.42 --> 2708.58] Give us comfort and courage to face these times. -[2712.36 --> 2713.00] Lord, we... -[2715.00 --> 2716.48] Pray for Elsa Hubert. -[2716.58 --> 2717.00] Says she... -[2718.00 --> 2719.26] Had a fall this week. -[2719.38 --> 2722.00] We pray, Lord, that the surgery she went through on Friday also... -[2722.00 --> 2725.00] Would give her good healing. -[2725.00 --> 2730.30] That she too may return to her normal activities soon. -[2732.00 --> 2733.00] Lord, we... -[2737.00 --> 2738.00] Pray for our... -[2739.00 --> 2742.38] Refugee sponsorship committee as well. -[2742.38 --> 2743.38] And that, Lord, there too... -[2743.38 --> 2746.38] And even though we have so many areas to give... -[2747.38 --> 2747.88] And... -[2747.88 --> 2749.12] Lord, we... -[2749.12 --> 2751.70] We feel tugged perhaps in different ways. -[2751.76 --> 2755.38] And we pray for your spirit to lead us and guide us to... -[2756.46 --> 2759.26] In the many ways, Lord, that we are able to give. -[2759.32 --> 2761.54] And we pray that that too would go well. -[2761.54 --> 2764.54] Lord, we... -[2764.54 --> 2772.30] Thank you for the training that we as elders could have this past week. -[2772.38 --> 2773.64] A time of getting together. -[2774.46 --> 2776.48] A time where we could share a meal. -[2776.76 --> 2780.20] A time where we could share thoughts about our work. -[2780.20 --> 2785.20] And to be guided, Lord, as to how you would want us... -[2785.98 --> 2788.96] To lead this congregation in its spiritual formation. -[2790.80 --> 2791.78] And, Lord, we... -[2791.78 --> 2792.50] Many of... -[2792.50 --> 2794.58] We each, Lord, feel we fall short. -[2794.68 --> 2796.20] And we pray that you would... -[2797.66 --> 2800.40] Give us the gifts that we require, Lord. -[2801.74 --> 2805.14] So that together as a church we may grow in you. -[2806.38 --> 2809.64] Lord, we pray for leaders in other areas also. -[2809.64 --> 2813.64] When governments, both at a local, provincial, and federal level... -[2814.16 --> 2817.18] May each, Lord, seek you in their... -[2817.18 --> 2822.34] In guidance as they do their work in leading the various areas that you have called them to. -[2825.74 --> 2826.64] Lord, we... -[2829.16 --> 2832.64] Pray that as we continue to worship you now... -[2832.64 --> 2836.48] That, Lord, may we experience the presence of your spirit. -[2836.48 --> 2840.68] We pray for Pastor Kevin as he leads us through your word. -[2841.34 --> 2842.68] Give him the words to speak. -[2842.86 --> 2844.62] Give us open hearts to listen. -[2845.70 --> 2847.58] And together, Lord, may we honor you. -[2848.00 --> 2849.48] We pray this in your name. -[2849.86 --> 2850.12] Amen. -[2866.48 --> 2877.12] I think it is. -[2878.16 --> 2878.42] Yeah. -[2878.60 --> 2879.06] There we go. -[2879.40 --> 2881.74] I'm always hesitant the first words to come out of my mouth. -[2881.86 --> 2884.04] Because sometimes they're way louder than I want them to be. -[2884.16 --> 2886.04] But, Courtney, you're on top of it as always. -[2886.12 --> 2886.46] Well done. -[2886.82 --> 2887.38] You know what? -[2887.44 --> 2888.80] Actually, I haven't done this in a while. -[2889.06 --> 2891.42] There are two of the most thankless jobs in the church. -[2891.42 --> 2894.64] And that is our sound person and our media person. -[2894.72 --> 2898.34] Because when things go right, no one pays attention to them. -[2898.60 --> 2902.10] But when things go wrong, everyone thinks it's their fault. -[2902.26 --> 2903.76] And very rarely is it. -[2904.12 --> 2905.84] So I think we should just give them a big clap. -[2905.96 --> 2907.12] Because they do good work. -[2909.60 --> 2910.04] So. -[2911.26 --> 2913.38] Thank you all, Inika and Courtney, today. -[2913.50 --> 2915.90] And everyone else who serves every other week as well. -[2915.90 --> 2915.94] So. -[2916.94 --> 2920.88] We love to romanticize things in our culture. -[2921.10 --> 2924.30] We idealize things very often. -[2924.46 --> 2928.66] We like to look at things and make them seem better than they actually are. -[2929.04 --> 2931.82] And we do this with almost everything. -[2932.58 --> 2934.34] We do it for time, for example. -[2934.36 --> 2935.16] We do it with time. -[2935.22 --> 2936.84] We like to look back at the past and we think, -[2936.84 --> 2938.72] Oh, remember the good old days? -[2939.08 --> 2942.24] Back when bread was a nickel and we didn't have these TikTokers everywhere. -[2942.72 --> 2944.32] And everybody worked with their hands. -[2944.32 --> 2949.64] I wish we lived in the 1400s when life was simple and we could grow our own food. -[2950.00 --> 2951.60] And we didn't have a care in the world. -[2952.50 --> 2955.06] Of course, in reality, wars were constantly breaking out. -[2955.24 --> 2956.30] Deodorant wasn't a thing. -[2956.40 --> 2959.22] And septicemia was lurking right around the corner, wherever you looked. -[2960.82 --> 2962.42] Or we look to the future, right? -[2962.46 --> 2963.10] We look to the future. -[2963.18 --> 2965.16] We say, I can't wait till I'm done with this assignment. -[2965.16 --> 2967.12] I can't wait till I've graduated high school. -[2967.22 --> 2968.22] Or I've finished my degree. -[2968.46 --> 2969.70] Or I get my first job. -[2969.76 --> 2970.90] Or I own my first house. -[2971.02 --> 2972.32] Or my kids are all grown up. -[2972.34 --> 2973.64] Or I get that job promotion. -[2973.64 --> 2974.90] Or I get that surgery. -[2974.96 --> 2975.70] Or when I'm retired. -[2975.86 --> 2979.52] And we list a lot of things that we just have to get to this. -[2979.62 --> 2982.82] Because if we can get to this, then it's going to be better. -[2984.16 --> 2984.36] Right? -[2984.90 --> 2986.30] Romanticizing the future helps. -[2986.82 --> 2992.26] Even though we all know that life doesn't actually get easier as we progress along. -[2992.96 --> 2994.46] We romanticize relationships. -[2994.46 --> 2995.56] If I could only get a girlfriend. -[2995.72 --> 2996.34] Or get a husband. -[2996.70 --> 2997.42] Or have kids. -[2997.58 --> 2999.48] Or maybe live on an island all by myself. -[2999.68 --> 3002.08] If I could have any of those things, life would be better. -[3003.64 --> 3005.86] Sadly, the flip of that is also true. -[3005.98 --> 3007.84] We all know the statistics. -[3008.02 --> 3011.24] There's many people who live who say, if I could only be severed from that relationship. -[3011.34 --> 3012.40] If I could only have a divorce. -[3012.46 --> 3014.02] If this relationship could only be over. -[3014.82 --> 3016.28] Life would be better. -[3016.92 --> 3019.18] We even romanticize the bad. -[3020.18 --> 3022.88] We Christians do it with ministry and mission. -[3022.98 --> 3025.54] If I could just go and help out in that homeless shelter. -[3025.62 --> 3028.18] If I could do this thing, I'll really start to make a difference. -[3028.28 --> 3029.68] I'll start to feel better. -[3030.14 --> 3031.74] I'll save the day. -[3032.50 --> 3035.28] And then you find yourself buttering buns in the back corner. -[3035.40 --> 3036.74] And there's not a lot of face time. -[3036.80 --> 3038.58] And you're not getting that glory you kind of wanted. -[3038.68 --> 3040.28] And you actually realize maybe that's a little bit selfish. -[3041.38 --> 3044.24] Or you serve in the same location for years and years on end. -[3044.28 --> 3047.30] And you see the same people coming in each and every day. -[3047.30 --> 3048.68] Their lives not changing. -[3049.18 --> 3050.72] And you get downtrodden. -[3051.14 --> 3054.98] It makes you feel hopeless because you realize you can't change people's situations. -[3055.24 --> 3057.08] You realize it's hard. -[3057.90 --> 3058.80] Ministry is tough. -[3059.82 --> 3061.52] And yet we still romanticize. -[3063.14 --> 3068.42] We romanticize people and habits, time, ministry, relationships, situations, everything. -[3069.80 --> 3073.12] And if you're struggling to believe me, if you're struggling to believe any of those examples, -[3073.78 --> 3076.84] perhaps you find yourself on Instagram or Facebook these days. -[3076.84 --> 3078.96] And you're scrolling through posts and seeing your friends. -[3079.04 --> 3081.10] And you're thinking, ah, if I just had that. -[3081.24 --> 3082.86] If my life was a little bit like this. -[3083.00 --> 3085.20] If I could just do those things that they're doing. -[3085.56 --> 3086.84] My life would be better. -[3088.52 --> 3090.76] I'm not going to ask you to raise your hands if you've done that. -[3090.82 --> 3095.14] But statistically, the majority of us struggle with this regularly. -[3095.14 --> 3099.28] We romanticize things all the time. -[3100.96 --> 3103.30] And we do this with Christmas as well. -[3104.42 --> 3106.44] There's going to be a picture up behind me right second here. -[3106.96 --> 3108.02] Coming up on screen. -[3108.12 --> 3108.66] There it is. -[3109.06 --> 3109.98] Look at this picture. -[3110.62 --> 3111.28] Isn't it beautiful? -[3112.60 --> 3114.74] I mean, the sheep are all sitting so nice. -[3114.84 --> 3116.20] The wise men look so dapper. -[3116.74 --> 3118.44] Apparently, the angels found a dove nearby. -[3118.62 --> 3119.28] So that's cool. -[3119.76 --> 3121.66] They also found that olive branch from Noah's Ark. -[3121.74 --> 3122.28] So good for them. -[3122.34 --> 3123.08] That's lucky, I guess. -[3123.92 --> 3126.46] Mary looks great, considering she just gave birth, right? -[3126.54 --> 3127.74] The horse is bowing down. -[3127.80 --> 3128.22] That's cute. -[3129.06 --> 3132.40] And if Christmas movies have taught me anything, that cow standing right there, -[3132.80 --> 3138.62] she is just about to break out in song and give the most beautiful rendition of Silent Night the world has ever heard. -[3138.62 --> 3139.88] We will all be moved to tears. -[3140.58 --> 3142.30] What a beautiful, beautiful scene. -[3143.98 --> 3148.92] In reality, of course, that scene was way messier than that. -[3149.90 --> 3151.72] The shepherds were super unruly. -[3152.28 --> 3159.02] I'm not positive Joseph had access to medical gods, which in my experience is very important when your wife gives birth to a child. -[3159.46 --> 3162.76] And honestly, I think it's unlikely that the cow sang anything. -[3163.82 --> 3166.26] I think the cow would have just stood there and pooped a little bit. -[3167.48 --> 3170.84] Actually, not to ruining a perfectly good nativity scene that you've got in your house, -[3170.90 --> 3172.38] but there likely wasn't a cow there at all. -[3172.46 --> 3175.32] Dairy farming wasn't really a thing that they did in the ancient Near East. -[3175.32 --> 3178.44] And that donkey that we assume Mary rode in on, not in the Bible. -[3179.00 --> 3180.60] We don't know if there was a donkey there or not. -[3181.92 --> 3183.96] There may have been a goat, maybe a camel. -[3184.08 --> 3184.82] That might make sense. -[3184.86 --> 3186.34] But the shepherds bringing their sheep there? -[3186.42 --> 3186.96] Probably not. -[3187.02 --> 3187.68] They wouldn't have fit. -[3188.22 --> 3189.34] Why would they take all their sheep? -[3190.94 --> 3193.90] The point is, we romanticize the nativity scene. -[3193.98 --> 3195.42] We want it to be picturesque. -[3195.44 --> 3195.96] And that's okay. -[3196.60 --> 3198.90] I'm not here to smack talk the nativity scene. -[3198.96 --> 3199.94] Don't let me ruin Christmas. -[3199.94 --> 3203.90] But that picture, that's the definition of romanticism. -[3205.52 --> 3208.68] We do this for the nativity scene because we do this with Christmas. -[3209.46 --> 3212.70] We want Christmas to be so nice, so beautiful, so unique. -[3212.82 --> 3219.24] This marvel that we can celebrate in this season where we can just smile and look at everyone and burst out. -[3219.34 --> 3222.54] It's the most wonderful time of the year. -[3222.56 --> 3223.44] That's what we want. -[3224.22 --> 3229.68] And the sermon series, though, is going to break down some of these false assumptions. -[3229.94 --> 3233.08] We're going to be un-hallmarking Christmas, as it were. -[3233.28 --> 3235.12] Now, we're not doing this to be Scrooges. -[3235.52 --> 3240.30] The goal isn't to have us all leave here all downtrodden because our nice worldview of Christmas has shifted. -[3241.56 --> 3248.58] But rather, we're going to do this because these false assumptions that we've built up over Christendom, over centuries, as it were, -[3249.38 --> 3254.48] they take away from what Christmas is trying to accomplish. -[3254.60 --> 3257.62] It takes away from the Christmas story. -[3257.62 --> 3262.28] While it's good to be joyful, it's good to be cheerful, it's good to have the most wonderful time of the year, -[3263.02 --> 3264.66] the Christmas story isn't clean. -[3265.70 --> 3269.62] And as we sit in Advent, we want to sit in that mess. -[3269.80 --> 3273.28] We don't want to try to push through it and get to Christmas because that's the day. -[3273.98 --> 3275.74] We want to sit in that mess. -[3275.96 --> 3277.94] Christmas was messy. -[3278.12 --> 3280.30] Christmas is messy. -[3280.30 --> 3284.48] So some of you may be very uncomfortable during this series. -[3285.48 --> 3289.02] But the goal of this series is to understand what actually happened. -[3289.64 --> 3291.06] Why was it so messy? -[3291.40 --> 3296.90] And what myths do we need to debunk in order for us to fully grasp why Jesus came? -[3296.90 --> 3303.62] Our goal is to understand why this event is so important. -[3304.64 --> 3307.08] And so that's what we're going to do for the next four weeks. -[3307.16 --> 3310.18] We are going to un-hallmark the Christmas story. -[3311.24 --> 3313.10] So we're going to start that off today. -[3313.30 --> 3320.34] And we are going to read a passage that's possibly the most skipped-over passage in the entire Bible -[3320.34 --> 3322.60] that doesn't rhyme with Smoviticus. -[3322.60 --> 3326.18] So turn with me to Matthew 1, verses 1 to 17. -[3326.32 --> 3329.16] We're going to read the first 17 verses of Matthew 1. -[3329.44 --> 3330.36] Pull out your Bibles. -[3330.46 --> 3331.52] You can read along on the screen. -[3331.60 --> 3336.10] Or you can read along on the nice banners there that our art team has put up. -[3336.32 --> 3339.82] So Matthew 1, verses 1 to 17. -[3341.16 --> 3342.46] It reads like this. -[3343.32 --> 3349.12] This is the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah, the son of David, the son of Abraham. -[3350.26 --> 3352.08] Abraham was the father of Isaac. -[3352.38 --> 3353.76] Isaac, the father of Jacob. -[3354.12 --> 3356.30] Jacob, the father of Judah and his brothers. -[3356.90 --> 3360.64] Judah, the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar. -[3361.30 --> 3362.76] Perez, the father of Hezron. -[3363.08 --> 3364.50] Hezron, the father of Ram. -[3365.08 --> 3366.70] Ram, the father of Aminadab. -[3366.96 --> 3368.44] Aminadab, the father of Nation. -[3368.90 --> 3370.24] Nation, the father of Samon. -[3370.72 --> 3373.84] Samon, the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab. -[3374.74 --> 3377.24] Boaz, the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth. -[3378.08 --> 3379.28] Obed, the father of Jesse. -[3379.40 --> 3381.50] And Jesse, the father of King David. -[3382.42 --> 3386.36] David was the father of Solomon, whose mother had been Uriah's wife. -[3387.16 --> 3388.88] Solomon the father of Rehoboam. -[3389.36 --> 3390.92] Rehoboam the father of Abijah. -[3391.22 --> 3392.70] Abijah the father of Asa. -[3392.84 --> 3394.66] Asa the father of Jehoshaphat. -[3395.18 --> 3396.70] Jehoshaphat the father of Jehoram. -[3397.08 --> 3398.56] Jehoram the father of Uzziah. -[3398.86 --> 3400.28] Uzziah the father of Jotham. -[3400.58 --> 3401.98] Jotham the father of Ahaz. -[3402.40 --> 3403.96] Ahaz the father of Hezekiah. -[3404.70 --> 3406.42] Hezekiah the father of Manasseh. -[3406.78 --> 3408.20] Manasseh the father of Ammon. -[3408.68 --> 3410.68] Ammon the father of Josiah. -[3410.68 --> 3416.40] and Josiah, the father of Jeconia, and his brothers at the time of the exile to Babylon. -[3417.64 --> 3422.86] After the exile to Babylon, Jeconia was the father of Shealtiel, Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, -[3423.16 --> 3429.12] Zerubbabel the father of Abihu, Abihu the father of Eliakim, Eliakim the father of Azur, Azur the -[3429.12 --> 3435.60] father of Zadok, Zadok the father of Akim, Akim the father of Elihud, Elihud the father of Eleazar, -[3435.60 --> 3441.16] Eliezer the father of Mathan, Mathan the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Joseph, -[3441.52 --> 3447.26] the husband of Mary, and Mary was the mother of Jesus who was called the Messiah. Thus there was -[3447.26 --> 3453.92] 14 generations in all from Abraham to David, 14 from David to the exile in Babylon, and 14 from the -[3453.92 --> 3462.94] exile to the Messiah, the word of the Lord. That's a lot of names. When I was a kid my family was at -[3462.94 --> 3466.72] some church function, I don't actually remember what this church function was, but I do remember -[3466.72 --> 3473.36] that my dad had to read the text at this church function in front of a giant crowd. This text -[3473.36 --> 3478.22] was from First Chronicles or something, it was much like a text we just read there today, a lot of names, -[3478.56 --> 3483.30] I think even a lot of cities. Anyways, my dad started reading and he's muddling, -[3483.44 --> 3490.16] Shaltiel begat the Zerubbabel and Zerubbabel begat it, and he's just stumbling and mispronouncing every -[3490.16 --> 3493.96] word that's coming out of his mouth. And eventually he gets two, three, or four names and he stops, -[3494.56 --> 3497.94] he looks up, everybody's sitting there, and he closes his Bible and he says, and there was a -[3497.94 --> 3504.68] whole slew of them. The end. It was very funny. Everyone laughed, and I think everybody kind of -[3504.68 --> 3508.56] empathized with him and they figured, yeah, we get it, people had kids, why are we reading this? -[3509.60 --> 3515.38] I think we feel that way about this text too a little bit. Why does Matthew start the Christmas story -[3515.38 --> 3522.24] with this genealogy? What's the point? What I hope we leave here today is that we get to understand -[3522.24 --> 3529.22] that this passage gets to the heart, actually, of why Jesus came. This genealogy starts to deconstruct -[3529.22 --> 3534.14] that fairy tale Christmas that we've built up in our minds because it highlights something so very -[3534.14 --> 3542.64] important. The story shows that Jesus came into a mess from a mess because we are a mess. -[3542.64 --> 3551.30] Jesus came into a mess, from a mess, for a mess. And to understand this well, just look at his family. -[3552.24 --> 3558.10] The list on the wall right there speaks wonders. This is a who's who list of cheaters, liars, -[3558.28 --> 3564.76] deceivers, schemers, murderers, adulterers, idol worshipers, child sacrificers, polygamists, -[3564.90 --> 3570.98] and prostitutes. Jesus' genealogy reads like a giant list of thou shalt nots. -[3570.98 --> 3575.70] I mean, we're not going to go into all of them because there's 42, but look at some of these names. -[3575.82 --> 3581.26] Jacob, at the top, Jacob was known as a cheater and a fraudster. In fact, his name means the deceiver. -[3582.04 --> 3587.10] He lied, he cheated, and he lived up to that name. So much so that God actually changed his name -[3587.10 --> 3594.08] to Israel in Genesis 32. His son, Judah, he was super unrighteous. He wasn't a man of his word. -[3594.48 --> 3598.80] He left his daughter-in-law without a husband when his son died. We'll get to that story in a minute. -[3598.80 --> 3602.84] And as we learn in Genesis 38, he was not opposed to sleeping with prostitutes. -[3603.66 --> 3607.72] Right off the bat, there's two dubious people. And these were the two guys that they decided to -[3607.72 --> 3615.14] name their nation after, Israel and Judah. But we read on, and that list gets worse. -[3615.26 --> 3621.04] Amon in 2 Kings 21, he was a league leader in idol worship. Jehoram in 2 Chronicles 21, -[3621.42 --> 3625.62] he kills all of his brothers and a bunch of princes in order to keep the throne. -[3625.62 --> 3632.32] Ahaz in 2 Kings 16, it's despicable. He sacrifices his child, makes his kid walk through fire in order -[3632.32 --> 3638.08] to appease false gods. And Manasseh, who's been dubbed the most evil king in Israel's history, -[3638.66 --> 3642.74] among the long list of sins that he committed, he seemingly served every single god that wasn't -[3642.74 --> 3647.82] named Yahweh in existence. His story is in 2 Kings 21. -[3647.82 --> 3655.46] Sadly, even the good kings in this list, even the ones who the Bible says they did good in the eyes of -[3655.46 --> 3662.42] the Lord, are remembered for the sins that they committed. David was an adulterer. Solomon was as -[3662.42 --> 3667.86] big a polygamist as ever existed. The few kings that say they did good in the eyes of the Lord, -[3667.92 --> 3673.10] the majority of them left the high places up all over Jerusalem, where idol worship to false gods -[3673.10 --> 3682.92] continued. This is not an esteemed list. This is Jesus' family. This is his family line. This -[3682.92 --> 3689.72] this is his family line, this broken, messy, sinful family. They needed saving in the worst kind of way. -[3691.48 --> 3697.72] Jesus came into this mess from a family that was a mess in order to save them. -[3697.72 --> 3704.16] But it wasn't just his family, of course, that he came to save. And ironically, it's his family that -[3704.16 --> 3710.36] point us to this truth. One of the most well-documented parts of this genealogy is the -[3710.36 --> 3718.10] inclusion of four women, and five if you include Mary at the end. It wasn't just uncommon, sorry, -[3718.16 --> 3724.72] to not include women in a genealogy. This is unheard of. This was never done. Ancient genealogies never -[3724.72 --> 3729.54] recorded women. It was the men that kept the family lines going. It was the men that were documented. -[3729.66 --> 3734.84] That's why having sons back then was so important in the times of scripture. Your family line would -[3734.84 --> 3739.50] continue. And so it isn't just unique that Matthew includes these these women in the story. It is -[3739.50 --> 3749.46] very telling. Because genealogies didn't include women, but Jesus did. They followed him in his ministry. -[3749.46 --> 3754.64] They worked alongside of him in a special way. They were a part of his family line for a reason. -[3755.42 --> 3759.78] We're going to quickly look at these four stories of these four women just to refresh our memories -[3759.78 --> 3764.20] real quick. First of all, the first woman that's listed is Tamar. Her story's found in Genesis 38. -[3764.78 --> 3770.60] Some of you may recall Tamar was married to Judah's oldest son, Ur. However, Ur was a very wicked man, -[3770.64 --> 3777.04] and so God killed him before Tamar had any kids. As was the custom, Tamar was then betrothed to Judah's -[3777.04 --> 3783.24] second son, Onan. But he was also terrible, and God also killed him. And so she's left as widow again -[3783.24 --> 3787.60] without a child. Judah then promises Tamar, when my third and final son is old enough, -[3788.06 --> 3793.70] he will marry you. However, that son grows up. Judah doesn't keep his promise. Tamar realizes -[3793.70 --> 3798.18] she's not going to be married to him, and so she comes up with a plan. She dresses up as a prostitute -[3798.18 --> 3803.06] and waits outside the city gates. There her father-in-law Judah comes rolling in, and with -[3803.06 --> 3810.14] her face covered, Judah takes her, sleeps with her, and has no idea who she is. When it comes time to pay, -[3810.26 --> 3814.28] Judah leaves his seal and his staff with her because he has no money on him. As a sort of collateral, -[3814.40 --> 3820.14] he'll pay her later, he says. But you can imagine the rest. She gets pregnant. Judah finds out that her -[3820.14 --> 3824.88] daughter-in-law has been sleeping around. He's furious, wants to stone her. She brings out the seal and the -[3824.88 --> 3831.72] staff. Judah's ashamed. Tamar gets her justice. Judah gets his just dessert. And Tamar gives birth -[3831.72 --> 3839.60] to twin boys, Zerah and Perez. Perez starts at the very beginning, the bloodline of Jesus. -[3840.50 --> 3845.76] The second woman listed in the genealogy is Rahab. Her story's found in Joshua 2. Rahab was a -[3845.76 --> 3851.12] prostitute. He was a prostitute and a citizen of Jericho when Joshua and the Israelites are about to -[3851.12 --> 3854.42] come storming through. That's the story they're doing in children's worship time today. Not Rahab, but -[3854.42 --> 3860.44] the Jericho. That's the tie-in from the children's story there. Joshua sends two spies into the city -[3860.44 --> 3864.90] to do some reconnaissance before the battle. And when they get into trouble, Rahab hides them, -[3865.36 --> 3871.56] keeps them safe. Rahab, in this incredible decision of faith, which acted against her community, -[3872.02 --> 3878.14] her government, and its false gods, she risks her life and saves these two Israelite spies. -[3879.82 --> 3884.00] She called on them and the one true God to save her family. And this act of faith -[3884.00 --> 3890.10] saves her family. And she's welcome into the nation of Israel and becomes part of the bloodline of -[3890.10 --> 3896.70] Jesus. The third woman listed is Ruth. Ruth was a Moabite woman who married a son of Naomi. So -[3896.70 --> 3901.68] Naomi's her mother-in-law. But Naomi's husband and her two sons, Ruth's husband being one of them, -[3901.68 --> 3907.44] they all die. So Naomi decides to go back to her hometown of Bethlehem to be with distant relatives. -[3907.44 --> 3913.48] Instead of staying behind in Moab, like most women would have done, Ruth decides to stay with Naomi -[3913.48 --> 3919.22] and goes with her to Bethlehem. There Ruth meets Boaz, this wealthy distant relative of Naomi and -[3919.22 --> 3925.38] a man who did good in the eyes of the Lord. So Ruth is rewarded with her faithfulness to Naomi -[3925.38 --> 3934.24] and becomes the great-grandmother to King David. King David. The fourth woman mentioned is Bathsheba. -[3934.52 --> 3939.00] And what kind of mentioned? If you notice actually in verse 6 of our text, her name's not actually -[3939.00 --> 3945.86] mentioned. She's just referred to as the one who was Uriah's wife. Well, Uriah's wife was bathing on -[3945.86 --> 3950.42] the roof of her house with a name like Bathsheba. That seems a little bit too on point, but it's true. -[3950.42 --> 3956.58] And there she is. And King David catches a good long glimpse of her. His lust takes over. He ends -[3956.58 --> 3963.52] up calling her into the palace and commits adultery. Bathsheba gets pregnant. David needs to hide this. -[3963.62 --> 3968.70] He tries to do some scheming. He ends up murdering Bathsheba's husband by sending him on the front lines -[3968.70 --> 3977.36] of war. God calls him out on that. Nathan comes and says that he knows the pregnant Bathsheba's kid -[3977.36 --> 3983.10] actually dies. But she ends up marrying David, having another son named Solomon. Solomon continues -[3983.10 --> 3990.26] on the royal bloodline to Jesus. These are the four women that are mentioned. Let me ask you, -[3990.90 --> 3997.10] other than the four of them being women, what do a cunning woman who seeks her own justice and her -[3997.10 --> 4003.34] own rights in extreme and very unconventional ways, a prostitute who took an extreme leap of faith at the -[4003.34 --> 4010.18] expense of everything she knew, a faithful woman who, again, stuck with her mother-in-law through thick -[4010.18 --> 4016.36] and thin and everything, unlike any woman would do back then, and a victim of lust by a man known to -[4016.36 --> 4022.00] many as the greatest king Israel, earthly king Israel ever had. What do those four have in common? -[4024.04 --> 4028.28] There's a couple things. The first isn't noticed right away, but becomes pretty apparent. -[4028.28 --> 4035.96] None of these four women are Jews. They were not of Jewish descent. They were Gentiles. -[4036.66 --> 4042.70] Of course, all the men in Jesus' genealogy would have been Jews. They were of Israel. They had to be. -[4043.24 --> 4049.44] But the women, none of them were Jewish. This is big because in Jesus' bloodline, it has Gentile blood -[4049.44 --> 4054.56] in it. The Jewish people were just getting started, for example, when Tamar was in the picture, so she was -[4054.56 --> 4059.82] certainly a Gentile. Rahab was from Jericho, so she was a Gentile. Ruth was a Moabite. That's not Jewish. -[4059.94 --> 4064.86] She's a Gentile. And Bathsheba, we don't actually know for sure, except the only detail we know was -[4064.86 --> 4072.34] that she was Uriah's wife, and we know Uriah was a Hittite, which is a Gentile. Verse 6 of our text -[4072.34 --> 4078.84] makes sure to point that out. The fact that she was married to Uriah was a big deal. It was too important -[4078.84 --> 4085.10] to leave out. So this inclusion of women, Jesus' genealogy, it breaks not just the gender mold. -[4086.94 --> 4095.20] That's huge. But it also breaks down the racial and national mold. Jesus came for everyone, -[4095.56 --> 4102.60] not just the Jews, because Jesus came from Gentiles as well. In fact, this genealogy breaks -[4102.60 --> 4107.20] down so many barriers, many barriers that we as a society love to build up so that we can sort of -[4107.20 --> 4114.06] draw lines in between each person. Jesus was born to save the men and the women. Jesus was born to -[4114.06 --> 4119.70] save the young and the old, the good and the bad, and as this genealogy points out, the Gentiles and -[4119.70 --> 4125.64] the Jews, all of which are mentioned here in our text today, all of which are a part of Jesus' birth -[4125.64 --> 4132.08] story and our Advent season. This is beautiful. Jesus was born for all. -[4132.08 --> 4139.68] There's a second thing that these women had in common, and it's worth highlighting this morning. -[4140.82 --> 4144.56] All of these women subverted people's expectations. -[4147.18 --> 4153.38] Again, like the men in this bloodline, these women weren't all saints, right? Rahab was a prostitute. -[4153.52 --> 4158.12] Tamar pretended to be a prostitute to sleep with her father-in-law. The jury's out on if Bathsheba -[4158.12 --> 4162.64] actually had anything to do with seducing David, though I think it's likely she's just a victim here. -[4163.80 --> 4170.26] But more than that, God used each of these women to move his plan forward so much differently -[4170.26 --> 4178.40] than anyone would have expected. Tamar had a kid with her father-in-law. Rahab wasn't part of Israel -[4178.40 --> 4184.76] until she saved a couple of spies. If David had lived as God called him to, Bathsheba wouldn't be in the -[4184.76 --> 4191.88] picture. And Ruth, Ruth comes along in probably the darkest time in Israel's history, the time -[4191.88 --> 4195.18] of the judges. And if you want to know what that's like, read that book. It's horrifying. -[4196.16 --> 4202.78] But this Moabite woman, not even a part of Israel, this Moabite woman faithfully bridges the gap -[4202.78 --> 4209.04] between this evil, unfaithful nation and a royal family that's going to usher in the Messiah. -[4209.04 --> 4218.20] They all subverted the expectations of this royal bloodline. There's a parallel here because while -[4218.20 --> 4223.74] these women subverted the expectations placed on them, it actually foreshadows exactly the kind of -[4223.74 --> 4230.04] Messiah that was coming from their bloodline. Because Jesus subverted the expectations of what -[4230.04 --> 4236.16] it meant to be a Messiah. Jesus was not some political dynamo that people were expecting to come -[4236.16 --> 4242.78] and rule the world. He was not this militant king ready to conquer the evil empires of the area. He -[4242.78 --> 4252.56] was not the powerful face of change on billboards across Israel. He was a humble servant leading a -[4252.56 --> 4259.72] bunch of fishermen, a bunch of tax collectors, a bunch of women around the country, sharing food with -[4259.72 --> 4266.44] sinners and prostitutes, telling stories of what it means to love your neighbor, healing sick people, -[4266.88 --> 4276.84] crying over friends who died, willingly laying down his life without a fight for the kingdom of his rule -[4276.84 --> 4280.18] rather than standing up and fighting for it. -[4280.18 --> 4290.64] It's like people didn't expect Tamar or Rahab to bear royal children. People were not expecting a Messiah like this. -[4292.74 --> 4302.62] Jesus was born into this messy world. He was born of this messy family in order to save all of the messy people. -[4302.62 --> 4314.56] He was born to be different, to subvert our expectations. He lived this life that we have all been called to live and yet fail to do so. -[4314.58 --> 4321.70] And then he died a death that all of humanity deserves to die, a horrible, gruesome death in our place. -[4321.70 --> 4329.14] But then on the third day, the penultimate act of cleaning up a mess, which started the moment Adam and Eve bit into that fruit. -[4329.78 --> 4330.46] He rose again. -[4331.14 --> 4333.20] And he defeated sin and death forever. -[4333.46 --> 4339.64] And we await the ultimate act of him cleaning up this mess, where he will come again and clean everything up for good. -[4343.00 --> 4346.08] That is what we are waiting for in this Advent season. -[4346.08 --> 4355.06] Let's not try to make this Advent season so neat and tidy and clean, just like this picture that was up a while ago. -[4355.14 --> 4356.34] It's going to be behind me. There it is. -[4356.68 --> 4357.92] Let's not make Advent that. -[4359.74 --> 4361.20] Christmas isn't that. -[4361.70 --> 4362.92] Christmas can't be that. -[4364.34 --> 4365.96] Friends, because we are not that. -[4367.44 --> 4368.56] We are a mess. -[4368.62 --> 4369.74] This world is a mess. -[4370.16 --> 4372.26] It's been a mess ever since the fall. -[4373.02 --> 4374.48] Jesus' family proves that. -[4374.48 --> 4376.54] It's sinful. -[4376.74 --> 4377.28] It's broken. -[4377.44 --> 4378.02] It's messy. -[4378.32 --> 4384.10] And while Jesus came to redeem the world, we await his second coming, which will clean it all up for good. -[4385.72 --> 4389.76] Let's not make this Advent season so neat and tidy like this picture. -[4389.86 --> 4390.56] It wasn't clean. -[4391.32 --> 4391.88] It couldn't be. -[4393.26 --> 4395.94] If it was, Jesus wouldn't have needed to come. -[4398.40 --> 4399.62] I'm going to conclude with this. -[4399.62 --> 4406.06] Looking at Jesus' genealogy, a fellow by the name of Raymond Brown, he writes this beautiful quote, beautiful line. -[4406.14 --> 4406.56] It says this, -[4406.56 --> 4412.64] The God who wrote the beginnings with crooked lines also writes the sequence with crooked lines. -[4413.24 --> 4416.92] And some of those lines are our own lives, our own witness. -[4417.56 --> 4424.30] A God who did not hesitate to use the scheming as well as the noble, the impure as well as the pure, -[4424.90 --> 4430.46] men to whom the world hearkened and women upon whom the world frowned. -[4431.24 --> 4435.22] This God continues to work through the same means. -[4435.22 --> 4439.10] We are a mess. -[4439.20 --> 4442.94] We are those crooked lines, just like those 42 people listed on that wall over there. -[4443.52 --> 4448.00] And yet God has always written his story using crooked lines. -[4449.34 --> 4454.54] And so this Christmas, this Advent season, let's not try too hard to straighten them. -[4455.74 --> 4457.72] Let's acknowledge that they are crooked. -[4461.12 --> 4464.72] Let's not falsify what this Christmas story actually looked like. -[4465.22 --> 4466.82] Let's acknowledge the mess. -[4466.82 --> 4466.84] Let's acknowledge the mess. -[4466.84 --> 4472.06] Because when we look through that lens, we can really start to understand the grace -[4472.06 --> 4475.04] that he brought for us all. -[4476.72 --> 4480.94] Acknowledging the mess is the lens with which we need to view this Christmas story. -[4480.94 --> 4484.64] In fact, it's the lens with which we need to view all our stories. -[4485.44 --> 4493.16] Because then Christ's coming at Christmas, and is dying on Good Friday, and is rising on Easter. -[4493.66 --> 4496.80] They all become so much more significant. -[4497.48 --> 4506.06] When we understand the mess, we truly understand why Christ came and what he accomplished for all of us. -[4506.06 --> 4511.64] And so we're going to unhaul our Christmas this year in order to see that mess. -[4512.20 --> 4518.72] And truly understand, as we talked about this morning, the hope that we have in the grace and the mercy -[4518.72 --> 4523.66] found in Jesus' birth, life, death, and resurrection. -[4523.98 --> 4524.16] Amen? -[4525.28 --> 4526.00] Let's pray. -[4526.00 --> 4534.12] Father in heaven, we thank you for this Advent season. -[4534.74 --> 4541.46] We thank you for this season where we can sit and look at the mess that this world is. -[4541.46 --> 4550.48] And God, we can sit and we can hope in you, in your coming at Christmas, in your birth, -[4550.80 --> 4554.08] and your coming ultimately in the end to come and clean up this mess. -[4554.24 --> 4556.92] We can long for that in this Advent season. -[4557.00 --> 4558.60] So don't let us rush through that. -[4558.68 --> 4560.84] Don't let us try to tidy this up ourselves. -[4561.04 --> 4564.12] Don't let us try to paint a better picture of what life is. -[4564.20 --> 4569.24] Don't let us romanticize Advent or romanticize Christmas. -[4569.24 --> 4573.06] But let us know that you have come and saved it. -[4573.16 --> 4574.86] You have come to redeem it. -[4574.92 --> 4579.72] And you will come again to bring in your glory forever and ever. -[4580.96 --> 4584.64] May that be the truth of this season for us this year. -[4584.98 --> 4586.46] We pray this in your son's precious name. -[4586.88 --> 4587.12] Amen. -[4599.24 --> 4628.96] Come, thou long-expected Jesus. -[4628.96 --> 4634.94] Born to set thy people free -[4634.94 --> 4641.02] From our fears and sins release us -[4641.02 --> 4647.44] Let us find our rest in thee -[4647.44 --> 4654.80] Israel's strength and consolation -[4654.80 --> 4660.76] Hope of all the earth thou art -[4660.76 --> 4666.80] Dear desire of every nation -[4666.80 --> 4673.80] Joy of every longing heart -[4675.44 --> 4680.80] Born thy people to deliver -[4680.80 --> 4686.80] Born a child and yet a king -[4687.70 --> 4692.80] Born to reign in us forever -[4693.64 --> 4699.80] Now thy gracious kingdom bring -[4699.80 --> 4707.98] By thine own eternal spirit -[4707.98 --> 4713.92] Rule in all our hearts alone -[4713.92 --> 4719.80] By thine all sufficient merit -[4719.80 --> 4727.54] Raise us to thy glorious throne -[4727.54 --> 4750.94] And so as we go out into this week, as we start Advent this Sunday, let's remember the mess that Christmas was, that Advent is, that this world is, and not glorify in that, but glorify in the God who sent his Son to redeem it. -[4750.94 --> 4761.88] We are going to have the blessing today, but I am going to invite Pastor Dan Hoagland who is going to lead us in this blessing today as he is here and we thought we would take advantage of that. -[4761.88 --> 4763.66] So Pastor Dan, come on forward. -[4764.86 --> 4765.44] Here's the mic. -[4765.54 --> 4766.06] Here's the mic. -[4766.62 --> 4767.32] Oh, look at that. -[4767.70 --> 4768.02] Look at that. -[4768.36 --> 4768.48] Yeah. -[4768.48 --> 4772.18] It's nice to see all of you. -[4772.60 --> 4773.30] Really good. -[4773.56 --> 4778.02] So thanks for Kevin for allowing me this and Pastor Chris as well. -[4778.56 --> 4784.70] We had a good chat earlier this week and good to see you well and to see all of your children growing up. -[4784.98 --> 4789.84] Oh man, I remember when so many of them were born and it was a privilege to be a part of your life. -[4790.56 --> 4791.62] It's interesting. -[4791.62 --> 4797.56] I think the pandemic created a little bit of a time warp and so you might not be sure how long I've actually been gone. -[4797.56 --> 4798.48] It's been three years. -[4800.06 --> 4802.58] Aren't pandemics fun to go through as congregations? -[4802.70 --> 4808.02] I've heard there's been lots of excitement here and we've had excitement in our congregation as well. -[4808.28 --> 4811.34] So, but life is good for us in Fredericton. -[4811.60 --> 4812.58] We're happy there. -[4812.68 --> 4813.12] We're content. -[4813.34 --> 4814.44] The church is good to us. -[4814.84 --> 4823.66] But I know that being back, I'm reminded that there is and always will be a part of my heart that remains in Langley and with this congregation. -[4823.66 --> 4830.34] And so, thanks for those who have just been kind and good to me, just even coming into the sanctuary this morning. -[4830.88 --> 4834.50] And as we go from this place, God is going to send us with his blessing. -[4834.94 --> 4838.64] I think Kristen and my kids, the rest of my kids at home are also watching. -[4839.38 --> 4841.84] For them, they're missing being here too. -[4842.12 --> 4843.98] And next summer, we hope to come out. -[4844.02 --> 4845.86] My parents have their 50th wedding anniversary. -[4845.86 --> 4849.42] So, we'll definitely stop in and say hello then with everyone. -[4850.04 --> 4852.46] We'll receive these words of blessing from our God. -[4853.64 --> 4863.98] May the love of God the Father, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be and remain with you always. -[4864.64 --> 4865.72] All God's people said. -[4865.72 --> 4865.78] Amen. -[4865.78 --> 4866.78] Amen. -[4866.78 --> 4867.12] Amen. -[4867.12 --> 4867.78] Amen. -[4867.78 --> 4867.84] Amen. -[4867.84 --> 4868.84] Amen. -[4868.84 --> 4869.84] Amen. -[4869.84 --> 4869.88] Amen. -[4869.88 --> 4869.92] Amen. -[4875.86 --> 4905.84] Amen. -[4905.86 --> 4935.84] Amen. -[4935.84 --> 4936.84] Amen. -[4936.84 --> 4938.18] Amen. -[4938.18 --> 4945.84] Amen. -[4945.84 --> 4950.84] Amen. -[4950.84 --> 4954.84] Amen. -[4959.84 --> 4965.12] Amen. -[4965.12 --> 4965.26] Amen. -[4965.26 --> 4965.74] Amen. -[4965.74 --> 4965.82] Mouse. -[4965.82 --> 4974.64] Son of God and Son of God -[4974.64 --> 4980.20] There before the world began -[4980.20 --> 4986.74] Born to suffer, born to save -[4986.74 --> 4994.86] Born to raise us from the grave -[4994.86 --> 5003.00] For us the everlasting Lord -[5003.00 --> 5009.12] We shall reign forevermore -[5009.12 --> 5016.60] No matter, no matter -[5016.60 --> 5023.74] Come and see what honor has done -[5023.74 --> 5030.88] Noel, Noel -[5030.88 --> 5037.88] The story of amazing love -[5037.88 --> 5041.88] The light of the world -[5041.88 --> 5045.88] Living for us -[5045.88 --> 5053.02] Noel, Noel -[5053.02 --> 5060.02] The story of amazing love -[5060.02 --> 5067.02] Noel, Noel -[5067.02 --> 5074.16] The story of amazing love -[5074.16 --> 5078.16] The light of the world -[5078.16 --> 5082.30] Given for us -[5082.30 --> 5085.30] Noel -[5085.30 --> 5092.44] Noel, Noel -[5092.44 --> 5094.44] The story of amazing love -[5094.44 --> 5096.44] Noel, Noel -[5096.44 --> 5100.44] The story of amazing love -[5100.44 --> 5102.44] Noel, Noel -[5102.44 --> 5104.44] The story of amazing love -[5104.44 --> 5110.10] Her -[5110.10 --> 5111.64] Her -[5111.64 --> 5119.58] Ruined -[5119.58 --> 5119.88] Summer -[5119.88 --> 5149.86] Thank you. -[5149.88 --> 5179.86] Thank you. -[5179.88 --> 5209.86] Thank you. -[5209.88 --> 5239.86] Thank you. -[5239.88 --> 5269.86] Thank you. -[5269.88 --> 5299.86] Thank you. -[5299.86 --> 5301.86] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - November 13, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - November 13, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 1a25eff32b775ef237dfc5067a3d76f59af414a8..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - November 13, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,75 +0,0 @@ -• Repeated expressions of gratitude and thanks -• Recitation of a hymn or poem with lyrics referencing Jesus and God's love -• Personal testimony of being saved and redeemed through faith in Christ -• Affirmation of identity as a child of God and acceptance of divine love and forgiveness -• References to being free from sin and having a place in God's house -• Diaconal Ministries Canada and its partnership with the Christian Reformed Church in North America -• Purpose of deacons: leading, equipping, inspiring, empowering, and equipping churches to minister to members and communities -• Definition of trust and examples of trusting others (e.g. falling off a cliff, jumping into parents' arms, trust falls) -• Skydiving and parachutes as examples of putting trust in equipment and others -• Discussing trust, using the example of a child being thrown up in the air by a parent -• Introducing Abraham and Sarah's story as an example of trust in God -• Leading the family prayer and giving thanks for various blessings -• Discussing the church's mission statement and gathering to worship God -• Mentioning the loss and struggles of several families in attendance -• Praising God's forgiveness, care, and love for all attendees, regardless of their circumstances -• Recognizing the privilege of gathering together in person or online -• Preparing for the Lord's Supper table -• Discussion of worship as a habit vs. a deeper expression of faith -• Prayer for those in the church, including Sylvia and others doing behind-the-scenes work -• Request for blessings on various church activities, such as the upcoming congregational meeting and Faith and Work Seminar -• Call to use talents and resources wisely for God's kingdom -• Introduction to the topic of Psalm 44 and a personal anecdote about a child hiding under his bed -• Shame causes people to hide from others, including God -• The speaker will discuss Psalm 44 and explore how shame affects us -• Unlike guilt, which is a legal reality due to sin, shame feels like being engulfed in something disgusting or hideous -• Understanding the difference between guilt and shame is crucial for addressing shame effectively -• Shame can be overcome by running to God rather than hiding from Him, as He has already come to us -• Summary of Christian doctrine emphasizing belonging to God and receiving redemption through Jesus Christ -• Discussion of the second question of the catechism: knowing one's guilt, being set free from sin and misery, and thanking God for deliverance -• The importance of acknowledging and accepting guilt as a foundation for gratitude and joy in the gospel -• Critique of modern culture's rejection of the idea that humans are guilty and deserving of judgment -• Analysis of how shame can be used to drive people away from community and public spaces, exemplified by "cancel culture" -• Examination of Psalm 38:15-17 as a representation of the experience of shame, where shame becomes a fixation and affects one's identity and interactions with others -• Shame as a response to circumstance, not God -• Blaming someone else or God for circumstances of shame -• Conflating sovereignty with meaning made about circumstances -• Traumatic exposure and inner ugliness revealed by shame -• Hiding or burying oneself deeper as a coping mechanism for shame -• Guilt vs. Shame and their responses to circumstance -• Meaning-making and attributing divine permission to desires -• The definition of hell as separation from God and how shame can be seen as a self-imposed hell -• Shame being an acid that strips dignity and dissolves hope, leading to the loss of intimacy, wonder, and joy -• The story of Adam and Eve's rebellion against God, hiding in shame and blaming others -• How people often handle shame by trying to flip their understanding of themselves or increasing self-esteem -• The Bible's view on guilt and shame, teaching that it is rooted in trusting false gods rather than depending on God -• How idols such as finances, health, reputation, etc. can lead to shame when they fail to satisfy soul longings -• The tendency for people to stick with familiar shame and avoid the truth of the gospel through humility and confession -• The psalmist cries out to God, expressing feelings of shame and oppression -• The psalmist relies on God's unfailing love for rescue -• Jesus is the solution to shame and guilt, offering true victory through His sacrifice -• The Bible contrasts with the world's solution to shame, which is self-esteem and thinking more highly of oneself -• A new identity in Christ transforms individuals by the power of the Holy Spirit -• Prayers are offered to God for help in seeing one's true identity and for confidence in Him. -• The table is a place of unity and clarity, where we can see and hear from Jesus -• A liturgy will be followed, with parts for individuals to speak -• Thanking God for creation, covenant, and salvation through Jesus Christ -• Celebrating the Lord's Supper, including bread and cup as reminders of Jesus' sacrifice -• Invitation to come to the table regardless of faith level or experience -• Instructions on how to participate in the Lord's Supper during this service -• Reference to serving a group -• Worship team leading in worship together -• The body of Christ given for you -• Consuming the blood of Christ -• References to sacrifice, love, and forgiveness -• Discussion of sin, guilt, and redemption -• Song lyrics mentioning amazing love and sacrifice -• Prayers and thanksgiving expressions -• The power of God's loving kindness in the face of darkness -• The promise of salvation through Jesus Christ -• The concept of death losing its grip on believers -• The blessing of God, including Numbers 6:27 and the priestly blessing -• Praise and worship of God's glory, wisdom, honor, and power -• Recitation of "Be to our God forever and ever" with repeated Amens -• Expression of all being fully in love with Amen -• Multiple repetitions of "We love you" with Amen and expressions of gratitude \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - November 13, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - November 13, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b132785998b2a87deac0b37daabfc83e08115244..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - November 13, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1000 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 599.98] Thank you. -[600.00 --> 629.98] Thank you. -[630.00 --> 659.98] Thank you. -[660.00 --> 689.98] Thank you. -[690.00 --> 719.98] Thank you. -[719.98 --> 749.96] Thank you. -[749.96 --> 779.94] Thank you. -[779.96 --> 809.94] Thank you. -[809.96 --> 839.94] Thank you. -[839.96 --> 869.94] Thank you. -[869.96 --> 899.94] Thank you. -[899.98 --> 929.94] Thank you. -[929.94 --> 959.92] I'm going to invite you to stand. -[959.92 --> 959.94] Thank you. -[989.92 --> 1019.90] Thank you. -[1019.90 --> 1049.88] Thank you. -[1049.90 --> 1079.88] Thank you. -[1079.90 --> 1109.88] Thank you. -[1109.90 --> 1139.88] Thank you. -[1139.88 --> 1169.86] Thank you. -[1169.88 --> 1199.86] Thank you. -[1199.86 --> 1229.84] Thank you. -[1229.86 --> 1259.84] He became, -[1259.86 --> 1289.84] Jesus, Jesus. -[1289.86 --> 1319.84] Thank you. -[1319.86 --> 1349.84] Thank you. -[1349.86 --> 1379.86] Thank you. -[1379.86 --> 1409.84] Thank you. -[1409.86 --> 1439.84] Jesus, Jesus. -[1439.86 --> 1469.84] Jesus, Jesus, Lord of all. -[1469.84 --> 1499.84] He's from 2, -[1499.84 --> 1529.84] and He has, -[1529.84 --> 1553.84] I know not why God's wondrous grace to me he has made known, -[1553.84 --> 1565.20] nor why unworthy Christ in love redeem me for his own. -[1565.84 --> 1575.76] But I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that he is able -[1575.76 --> 1586.76] to keep that which I've committed unto him against that day. -[1588.12 --> 1597.76] I know not how his saving faith to me he did impart, -[1597.76 --> 1609.08] nor how believing in his work brought peace within my heart. -[1609.62 --> 1618.76] But I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that he is able -[1618.76 --> 1630.62] to keep that which I've committed unto him against that day. -[1630.62 --> 1641.74] I know not how the Spirit moves convincing us of sin. -[1641.74 --> 1652.62] Revealing Jesus through the word, creating faith in him. -[1652.62 --> 1663.26] But I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that he is able -[1663.26 --> 1674.56] to keep that which I've committed unto him against that day. -[1674.56 --> 1685.50] I know not what a good or ill may be reserved for me. -[1685.50 --> 1695.50] Of weary ways or golden days before his face I see. -[1695.50 --> 1706.78] But I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that he is able -[1706.78 --> 1718.00] to keep that which I've committed unto him against that day. -[1725.50 --> 1752.46] Who am I that the highest king would welcome me? -[1752.46 --> 1757.46] I was lost but he brought me ill. -[1757.46 --> 1761.46] His love for you. -[1761.46 --> 1765.46] Oh, his love for you. -[1765.46 --> 1769.46] Who the sun sets free. -[1769.46 --> 1774.46] Oh, it's free indeed. -[1774.46 --> 1775.46] I'm a child of God. -[1775.46 --> 1776.46] Yes, I am. -[1776.46 --> 1777.46] I'm a child of God. -[1777.46 --> 1781.46] Yes, I am. -[1781.46 --> 1787.46] Free of last he has ransomed me. -[1787.46 --> 1791.46] His grace runs me. -[1791.46 --> 1799.46] While I was a slave to say, Jesus died for me. -[1799.46 --> 1804.46] Yes, he died for me. -[1804.46 --> 1808.46] Who the sun sets free. -[1808.46 --> 1812.46] Oh, it's free indeed. -[1812.46 --> 1816.46] I'm a child of God. -[1816.46 --> 1820.46] Yes, I am. -[1820.46 --> 1825.46] In my Father's house. -[1825.46 --> 1829.46] There's a place for me. -[1829.46 --> 1833.46] I'm a child of God. -[1833.46 --> 1838.46] Yes, I am. -[1838.46 --> 1843.46] I am chosen, not forsaken. -[1843.46 --> 1847.46] I am who you say I am. -[1847.46 --> 1851.46] You are for me, not against me. -[1851.46 --> 1855.46] I am who you say I am. -[1855.46 --> 1876.46] I am who you say I am. -[1876.46 --> 1880.46] Who the sun sets free. -[1880.46 --> 1885.46] Oh, it's free indeed. -[1885.46 --> 1889.46] I'm a child of God. -[1889.46 --> 1893.46] Yes, I am. -[1893.46 --> 1897.46] In my Father's house. -[1897.46 --> 1901.46] There's a place for me. -[1901.46 --> 1906.46] I'm a child of God. -[1906.46 --> 1910.46] Yes, I am. -[1910.46 --> 1914.46] In my Father's house. -[1914.46 --> 1919.46] There's a place for me. -[1919.46 --> 1923.46] I'm a child of God. -[1923.46 --> 1927.46] Yes, I am. -[1927.46 --> 1929.46] You may have a seat. -[1957.46 --> 1964.46] Good morning, everyone. -[1964.46 --> 1969.46] Before I get started, our beautiful brand new chairs that we have. -[1969.46 --> 1975.46] If you look at the chair in front of you, there are giving envelopes and some of the seats. -[1975.46 --> 1979.46] And also some other information. -[1979.46 --> 1984.46] Today's offerings are for the church's ministries and missions. -[1984.46 --> 1989.46] The special offering today is for Diaconal Ministries Canada. -[1989.46 --> 1996.46] They partner with the Christian Reformed Church in North America to promote diaconal work in Canada. -[1996.46 --> 2006.46] The deacons serve by leading and equipping the church to minister to its members and the world in many different ministries. -[2006.46 --> 2023.46] Relying on the Holy Spirit, Diaconal Ministries Canada helps to inspire, empower, and equip deacons as they work to move their churches to join in God's transforming work in communities across Canada. -[2023.46 --> 2042.46] In imitation of Christ's mercy, deacons are to teach us to love God, our neighbors, and the creation with acts of generous sharing, joyful hospitality, thoughtful care, and wise stewardship of all God's gifts. -[2042.46 --> 2047.46] Next week's offerings are for the church budget and special offering of the church budget. -[2047.46 --> 2051.46] The special offering is Yubico Campus Reformed Okanagan. -[2051.46 --> 2055.46] It supports the chaplaincy of UBC Okanagan. -[2055.46 --> 2061.32] In the -[2061.46 --> 2065.46] Chankervais -[2065.46 --> 2068.96] lab -[2070.46 --> 2072.36] Marov -[2072.46 --> 2076.46] Direct recommendations -[2076.46 --> 2082.96] The -[2082.96 --> 2112.94] Thank you. -[2112.96 --> 2142.94] Thank you. -[2142.96 --> 2172.94] Thank you. -[2172.96 --> 2202.94] Thank you. -[2202.96 --> 2232.94] Thank you. -[2232.94 --> 2234.94] Thank you. -[2262.94 --> 2264.94] Thank you. -[2266.18 --> 2266.86] Oh boy. -[2267.08 --> 2268.38] I mean, like I do a lot of coaching. -[2268.48 --> 2272.14] In this situation, I'd be subbing you guys out and bringing some kids off the bench and -[2272.14 --> 2273.88] to do a little bit of cheering for me. -[2274.10 --> 2274.44] All right. -[2274.54 --> 2275.08] Nice job. -[2275.48 --> 2279.28] Today, we are going to, in children's worship time, we're going to talk about trust. -[2279.28 --> 2281.94] Have any of you guys ever heard that word before, trust? -[2283.86 --> 2284.38] Have you? -[2285.38 --> 2290.58] How about, do you think anyone here in this little group here could put that word trust in a sentence? -[2290.58 --> 2298.36] Let's get some head nodding, but not too many offering. -[2298.92 --> 2300.76] It's kind of a big person word, isn't it? -[2300.92 --> 2304.70] Sometimes parents use that kind of word and you hear it a lot with adults. -[2304.80 --> 2306.88] But anyway, we are going to talk about trust today. -[2306.96 --> 2311.46] But before we do that, I got a couple slides up on the screen that I want you guys to look at. -[2311.50 --> 2313.10] We're going to talk a little bit about trust. -[2313.68 --> 2316.88] I'm going to use them in a sentence and see if that makes sense. -[2317.16 --> 2317.48] All right. -[2317.70 --> 2318.34] First one. -[2319.98 --> 2325.54] So if you were falling off a cliff and somebody, that guy in the white shirt there, would you -[2325.54 --> 2330.76] put your trust in him to get you back up onto the cliff edge? -[2330.76 --> 2331.04] Yeah? -[2331.64 --> 2332.22] That would be good. -[2332.36 --> 2332.92] You wouldn't? -[2334.10 --> 2335.48] That might be all you got. -[2335.60 --> 2337.12] So you're going to have to trust that guy. -[2337.42 --> 2337.70] All right. -[2337.76 --> 2338.26] Next one. -[2338.26 --> 2343.48] If you were, when you were little, do you remember when sometimes you would jump into -[2343.48 --> 2344.46] your dad's arms? -[2344.78 --> 2346.34] Were you trusting him to catch you? -[2346.94 --> 2347.34] Yeah. -[2347.58 --> 2347.96] All right. -[2348.04 --> 2348.88] How about the next one? -[2349.96 --> 2353.06] So have any of you probably seen a little bit of this kind of stuff on TV? -[2353.20 --> 2357.98] That gal there who's letting go of that one rope there, jumping into the arms of the guy -[2357.98 --> 2360.42] there, do you think she's putting a lot of trust into that guy there? -[2360.94 --> 2361.18] Yeah? -[2361.44 --> 2363.00] Anybody like here want to try that? -[2364.60 --> 2365.00] Yes. -[2365.18 --> 2365.60] All right. -[2365.60 --> 2366.32] Next one. -[2366.32 --> 2368.74] How about that? -[2368.82 --> 2369.84] Has that ever happened to you? -[2370.04 --> 2374.80] I'm sure your dad or an uncle or a grandpa has done this to you on a dock somewhere on -[2374.80 --> 2375.20] a lake. -[2375.40 --> 2377.68] Try to almost throw you in, but you got to hang on there. -[2378.86 --> 2380.96] So she's putting a lot of trust into that, guys. -[2382.88 --> 2383.24] Yeah. -[2383.84 --> 2384.40] Next one. -[2385.40 --> 2385.86] How about this? -[2385.90 --> 2387.70] Anybody ever done a trust fall yet? -[2388.38 --> 2388.64] Yeah? -[2388.70 --> 2389.32] You've done those? -[2390.06 --> 2391.50] That's a good example of trust. -[2391.98 --> 2393.22] And do I have one more there? -[2394.44 --> 2395.18] How about that? -[2395.18 --> 2398.76] When you're the guy, people who are skydiving, jumping out of planes and stuff, they're putting -[2398.76 --> 2399.48] a lot of trust in. -[2399.52 --> 2400.10] What's that thing? -[2400.18 --> 2401.00] That's that red thing. -[2401.06 --> 2401.78] What's that thing called? -[2402.12 --> 2402.80] A parachute. -[2403.08 --> 2403.40] Yes. -[2403.72 --> 2404.90] And I think there might be one more. -[2406.52 --> 2408.76] And this happens quite a bit too when you're little. -[2408.86 --> 2412.58] Your dad or your uncle or grandpa or maybe even your mom throws you up in the air and -[2412.58 --> 2413.04] catches you. -[2413.10 --> 2415.98] You're putting a lot of trust in your mom or whoever's catching you, right? -[2415.98 --> 2417.84] So there's some examples of trust. -[2417.92 --> 2420.76] But today we're going to talk about Abraham and Sarah. -[2421.90 --> 2426.82] And Abraham had to trust in God because he was super old. -[2427.06 --> 2430.18] And God said, I'm going to make you a father of many nations. -[2430.18 --> 2431.82] And he was not so sure about it. -[2431.86 --> 2432.88] So we're going to talk about that. -[2433.36 --> 2435.36] But before we do that, we're going to give the blessing. -[2435.48 --> 2438.80] So if we can get you guys to stand up and all the people out there to stand up, we'll -[2438.80 --> 2439.42] do the blessing. -[2439.42 --> 2442.66] This time, kids, we've got to be loud. -[2443.34 --> 2443.50] Okay? -[2444.56 --> 2447.32] The Lord be with you. -[2447.98 --> 2449.36] And all with you. -[2449.54 --> 2450.16] Nice work. -[2469.42 --> 2479.50] My name is Rob, and I will be leading us in the family prayer this morning. -[2480.66 --> 2486.02] Recently, we heard a series of messages in September on our church's mission statement. -[2486.02 --> 2489.06] And I'd like to pick up on that theme again today. -[2489.80 --> 2490.48] Let's pray. -[2491.94 --> 2492.46] Gather. -[2493.46 --> 2497.36] We recognize what a privilege we have to gather today. -[2497.36 --> 2502.08] We've come this morning from homes and our scattered communities and traveled together -[2502.08 --> 2503.74] to this time and place. -[2504.36 --> 2510.38] If we had a time lapse tracking app, it would be fascinating to watch us converge in this -[2510.38 --> 2516.90] place, spread apart a few hours ago and going along various trails to meet together in this -[2516.90 --> 2517.70] central house. -[2518.44 --> 2524.96] We come here for many reasons, but most importantly, we come here to honor you, to worship you. -[2524.96 --> 2528.02] You are our God, and we are your people. -[2528.90 --> 2530.32] You created the universe. -[2530.64 --> 2532.02] You sustained all things. -[2532.56 --> 2533.42] But who are we? -[2534.74 --> 2538.16] Ordinary collection of people with the common struggles of humanity. -[2539.36 --> 2541.86] Some of us are in mourning. -[2542.24 --> 2549.70] We think of Joan and Jared and the Loberts and the Klosterhof and Mulder families and other -[2549.70 --> 2553.24] families who are mourning the loss of loved ones. -[2554.26 --> 2555.42] Some of us are worn. -[2555.92 --> 2556.50] Some stuck. -[2556.92 --> 2557.60] Some broken. -[2558.32 --> 2559.12] Some in despair. -[2560.32 --> 2562.18] Yet others who are healing. -[2562.82 --> 2564.04] There are some of us that are growing. -[2564.28 --> 2565.10] Some that are thriving. -[2566.10 --> 2568.30] But all of us, all of us are forgiven. -[2568.64 --> 2569.80] All of us are cared for. -[2570.56 --> 2572.76] And all of us are your children. -[2572.76 --> 2578.60] As we sang, as we just sang, I am who you say I am. -[2579.84 --> 2582.32] And who are we in comparison to your magnitude? -[2583.52 --> 2590.34] We're appreciative that we can gather in a sanctuary that only recently was renovated and brightened up. -[2590.76 --> 2592.32] And now we have these new chairs. -[2593.22 --> 2595.34] Those old chairs supported many people. -[2595.78 --> 2596.58] Countless stories. -[2596.58 --> 2599.90] May these new chairs also wear out too. -[2601.04 --> 2602.80] Seating a new generation of believers. -[2603.48 --> 2604.12] Resting in you. -[2605.32 --> 2607.54] Some of us gather here in person. -[2608.04 --> 2609.26] Some of us online. -[2611.10 --> 2618.56] It's another dimension to our Catholic Universal Church that now spans not just time, location, but now technology. -[2618.56 --> 2624.90] For those connected online, we pray that you too will be connected. -[2625.84 --> 2631.20] That you will also be devoted to the Apostles' teaching, to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayer. -[2632.54 --> 2635.54] Later, we'll gather around the Lord's Supper table. -[2636.36 --> 2642.78] As we come, group by croup, Lord, we pray that you inspire our memories of this memorial feast. -[2642.78 --> 2648.90] May we look around at those we break bread with and be encouraged by our fellow saints. -[2651.32 --> 2651.84] Grow. -[2652.30 --> 2655.72] We recognize what a privilege we have to grow this morning. -[2656.58 --> 2659.74] We praise you with the music of our songs. -[2660.20 --> 2661.86] We sang about the Ancient of Days. -[2662.48 --> 2664.26] We submit to you in our confession. -[2664.26 --> 2673.84] As much as our society tells us that we're not, and that we can fix ourselves, we know that we are in the wrong, and our help comes from you. -[2674.86 --> 2676.22] We give to you our offerings. -[2676.66 --> 2682.54] Thank you for the blessing of the Diaconal Ministries, and that we can be a part of this network across Canada. -[2684.08 --> 2686.92] Thank you that we can learn through your word. -[2687.66 --> 2693.50] We live in an awfully unbalanced world, and we depend on you to recenter us. -[2694.26 --> 2700.52] We praise you for the span of emotions of the Psalms, these words so long preserved. -[2701.30 --> 2702.82] They still speak to us today. -[2703.90 --> 2708.46] Open our hearts and minds to this morning's message as we speak on shame. -[2709.58 --> 2713.26] Speak through our misery that we may enter your majesty. -[2714.32 --> 2717.98] Father, we pray for those who enthusiastically left for children's worship. -[2718.96 --> 2720.98] May they be inspired to grow in their faith. -[2720.98 --> 2725.02] Come to an understanding of who you are and who they are in you. -[2726.46 --> 2730.06] Father, there are days we just go through the motions in our worship. -[2730.40 --> 2731.26] Church can be a habit. -[2732.04 --> 2732.98] It's so much more. -[2733.48 --> 2740.16] But we pray that even in those habits, that they nurture our faith, and that we'll be roused from our apathy, -[2740.36 --> 2742.96] and that in the long run that we will grow. -[2744.50 --> 2744.90] Go. -[2744.90 --> 2748.70] We recognize what a privilege we have to go this morning. -[2749.72 --> 2753.56] May our Sunday be a rest in you, and Monday a continue of our worship today. -[2754.50 --> 2758.84] Father, we pray for those specifically in our church. -[2759.94 --> 2767.60] We think of Sylvia in Maryland this week and their roles, often behind the scenes doing things that most of us are oblivious to, -[2767.60 --> 2774.24] whether that's doing things like reconciling a bank statement or putting together these automated emails that magically appear. -[2775.02 --> 2777.62] We thank you for their work, Lord, and we pray that you bless it. -[2778.00 --> 2781.96] We pray for grace doing the work that, by definition, we don't notice it. -[2782.88 --> 2787.16] Father, we pray for our pastors and elders as they provide spiritual leadership. -[2787.68 --> 2790.92] For the deacons as they connect with people and address their needs. -[2791.96 --> 2794.84] Father, we pray for the upcoming congregational meeting. -[2794.84 --> 2799.82] May it be a real enabler for the ministry going forward next year. -[2800.82 --> 2805.12] We think of the Faith and Work Seminar happening this week for the youth. -[2805.54 --> 2809.80] Lord, we pray that they may be inspired and see possibilities. -[2810.56 --> 2813.56] Thank you for the connections that can be built with other churches, too. -[2814.68 --> 2819.14] Father, we pray for the usher meeting, for the upcoming abuse prevention training later in November. -[2820.12 --> 2823.34] Father, we pray for the care groups that are meeting this week. -[2823.34 --> 2829.80] That these groups, too, will be devoted to the apostles' teaching, to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, to prayer. -[2831.48 --> 2836.82] As we go from this place, we pray that we may use the time that you have given us. -[2837.36 --> 2839.78] That we may use the talents you have given us. -[2840.20 --> 2842.44] That we may use the treasure you have given us. -[2842.44 --> 2848.08] That these things might be used to make a difference in your kingdom. -[2849.74 --> 2854.12] Father, as we go from here again today, as we re-scatter amongst our communities, -[2854.88 --> 2857.54] may we carry a bit of this fellowship with us. -[2858.08 --> 2863.04] And a whole lot of your light into this week, wherever we go and whatever we do. -[2863.82 --> 2866.66] In all these things, we pray in your name. -[2867.00 --> 2867.22] Amen. -[2872.44 --> 2873.44] Amen. -[2892.74 --> 2896.74] Can I just say that it's really good to be with you again. -[2896.74 --> 2903.12] if you're visiting with us my name is Chris I didn't say that at the beginning I'm one of the -[2903.12 --> 2908.56] pastors here but the last couple weeks I've been in other places in Mexico and then in Abbotsford -[2908.56 --> 2917.16] for an ordination and yeah two weeks away and being back with you this morning in worship -[2917.16 --> 2925.00] I'm just blessed to be among you and with you and so grateful that this can be our community together -[2925.00 --> 2932.76] we are indeed going to continue in our series on the Psalms in just a moment we're going to read -[2932.76 --> 2938.32] from Psalm 44 and so if you have a Bible I encourage you to open that up you can find Psalm 44 -[2938.32 --> 2946.66] read along with me and then keep it open or keep it on in front of you if it's a device that you use -[2946.66 --> 2953.92] before I get into the text just a little introduction to our topic this morning -[2953.92 --> 2962.58] now as many of you know I have two kids and whenever I use my kids as an illustration in -[2962.58 --> 2968.36] a sermon Nora always grabs me after church my daughter and she says dad you owe me a dollar -[2968.36 --> 2974.18] because one time she heard a pastor say whenever I use my kids in an illustration I pay them a dollar -[2974.18 --> 2978.96] and she thinks that I have to do that now my family's not here today because Nora's at home -[2978.96 --> 2989.14] six so this one's for free some time ago I don't exactly remember when but we were living here so -[2989.14 --> 2995.24] it's within the last couple years anyway Rachel and I were in the kitchen we were doing dishes or we -[2995.24 --> 3002.48] were sitting at the the island just chatting together when from the distance I hear Nora shout ow -[3002.48 --> 3011.46] and then we hear the little feet of Malachi her younger brother running out of her room and stopping -[3011.46 --> 3020.22] we go what did he do now you know how little boys can be so I went down the hall to see what was going -[3020.22 --> 3025.96] on I found Nora and she said that they were playing in their room and Malachi got excited and he hit her -[3025.96 --> 3034.42] and then he ran away so I went to his room to try and find him I opened the door and I said Malachi -[3034.42 --> 3043.46] are you in here and I didn't hear him or see him and so I said well I don't think he ran away -[3043.46 --> 3048.28] further than this so I went into the room one more time and I called out again Malachi -[3048.28 --> 3055.82] where are you and I didn't hear anything so I turned to leave when behind me I heard a small -[3055.82 --> 3063.94] shuffle coming from under the bed and so I knelt down on the ground and I had lifted up the blanket -[3063.94 --> 3072.60] and I said Malachi where are you and there he was hiding in the corner of his bed in the corner of his -[3072.60 --> 3083.42] room underneath with his shirt pulled up over his head and his back to me I said Malachi come come out -[3083.42 --> 3090.46] come to me and he let me slowly pull him out and I gathered him up and we sat down on his bed and I said -[3090.46 --> 3102.52] what's going on buddy it's like I hit Nora and I was sad so I ran away and I hid because I -[3102.52 --> 3110.40] didn't know what you were going to do and so my heart breaks in that moment for him and we sit and -[3110.40 --> 3117.88] we chat and we talk and what I help him see is that he ran away not because he was sad that was his word -[3117.88 --> 3123.98] for an emotion that he didn't know how to name the emotion he didn't know how to name was shame -[3123.98 --> 3132.18] he felt shame that he had done something and that shame caused him to hide from his father -[3132.18 --> 3142.16] who went searching for him and said where are you this morning we are going to talk about -[3142.16 --> 3149.14] shame now in our series on faith and all our feelings through the book of psalms we've gathered -[3149.14 --> 3154.44] up a whole bunch of different emotions and experiences of emotions and so today I want to -[3154.44 --> 3161.58] wrestle with you for a moment on shame what it is and how do we respond to it and to do that -[3161.58 --> 3168.68] we're going to look at psalm 44 we're going to read verse 9 through 17 -[3168.68 --> 3180.80] and I'm really going to focus in on verse 15 16 and 17 now I say that but we will end in the in the -[3180.80 --> 3187.08] rest of the psalm as well but that will be the lens through which we look at shame before we read -[3187.08 --> 3192.32] that together I want to give you what I hope can be our goal the sort of theme under which we will -[3192.32 --> 3198.70] operate this is where I hope we will come to land together so I want to give you the destination so -[3198.70 --> 3205.92] that along the journey you know where we're going that is this the reality of shame makes us hide -[3205.92 --> 3216.02] but instead of hiding from we can run to God and then what we will find is a God who has already -[3216.02 --> 3224.68] come to us so the reality of shame makes us hide but instead of hiding from we can run to God and -[3224.68 --> 3236.56] what we will find is a God who has already come to us and so with that let's read psalm 44 starting at verse 9 -[3236.56 --> 3248.30] but now you have rejected and humbled us you no longer go out with our armies you made us retreat -[3248.30 --> 3255.60] before the enemy and our adversaries have plundered us you gave us up to be devoured like sheep and have -[3255.60 --> 3262.88] scattered us among the nations you sold your people for a pittance gaining nothing from their sale you have -[3262.88 --> 3269.88] made us a reproach to our neighbors the scorn and derision of those around us you have made us a byword among -[3269.88 --> 3281.06] the nations the peoples shake their head at us I live in disgrace all day long and my face is covered with shame -[3281.06 --> 3289.12] at the taunts of those who reproach and revile me because of the enemy who is bent on revenge -[3289.12 --> 3299.14] all this came upon us though we had not forgotten you we had not been false to your covenant -[3299.14 --> 3301.28] this is the word of the Lord -[3301.28 --> 3311.38] now in this series that we have been working on in addition to particular psalms we have been using -[3311.38 --> 3319.12] the book by Allender and Longman the cry of the soul and in their chapter on shame which I think might -[3319.12 --> 3325.44] be the best chapter in the book in case you're waiting for a review and they write to be covered in -[3325.44 --> 3334.72] shame is to feel the self engulfed in something disgusting even hideous and the experience of -[3334.72 --> 3346.02] shame feels like a prolonged and torturous death now I named that at the beginning because what I'm aware -[3346.02 --> 3356.82] of and what I'm concerned for is that as we discuss shame as you begin to feel and hold up the sorts of -[3356.82 --> 3363.84] things that you are ashamed about in your own life or the kinds of shame that we carry as we sort of -[3363.84 --> 3373.94] expose those feelings to the light of the gospel some of us might be scared some of us might be terrified -[3373.94 --> 3381.14] at this sort of vulnerability that we are calling ourselves to and some of you may want a conversation -[3381.14 --> 3389.78] or a follow-up or may need to talk to a counselor or a pastor or an elder and so I want to I want you -[3389.78 --> 3396.40] to hear I am available for that pastor Kevin is available for that our elders are available for that -[3396.40 --> 3404.28] right you can contact me and us you can reach out pastor Kevin is not here but I know he also affirms -[3404.28 --> 3414.90] this and wants this so please please please even with the temptation to run and hide even with the -[3414.90 --> 3423.34] temptation to dive under our metaphorical beds and pull our shirts up over our heads instead of that can we -[3423.34 --> 3427.22] come together okay -[3427.22 --> 3437.00] now before we talk about shame and in order to do that well we need to know the difference between shame -[3437.00 --> 3446.12] and guilt all right what's the difference between shame and guilt and so to to highlight that difference -[3446.12 --> 3449.86] for us to make sure that we are on the right footing here we're going to do a little bit of biblical -[3449.86 --> 3455.98] theology and really this is a moment of biblical counseling with you and so please enter into this -[3455.98 --> 3468.14] guilt is our real legal reality because of sin our real legal reality because of sin this is clear -[3468.14 --> 3476.82] throughout the bible but here is just a quick sampling of a doctrine of sin for us right Romans 6 -[3476.82 --> 3486.12] the wages of sin is death there are none who are righteous not even one so all of us have sinned all have -[3486.12 --> 3493.12] sinned and fallen short of the glory of God or James who says that whoever keeps the whole law yet stumbles at -[3493.12 --> 3503.58] just one point is guilty of breaking it all right judgment followed once in uh and brought condemnation -[3503.58 --> 3513.28] sin one trespass resulted in condemnation for all people in Colossians Paul defines the effects of sin -[3513.28 --> 3520.32] as the the charge of our legal indebtedness which stood against us and condemned us -[3520.32 --> 3532.92] right sin and guilt is the real legal reality because of sin and apart from grace this is our shared reality -[3532.92 --> 3539.02] right we are sinful we are depraved is one of the words that theologians have sometimes used we are guilty -[3539.02 --> 3540.52] now -[3540.52 --> 3550.70] so much of our culture our therapeutic culture doesn't like that truth and so we don't usually -[3550.70 --> 3557.28] focus on that first part of guilt instead we focus on the second part of guilt which is the feeling part -[3557.28 --> 3564.40] and it's true because while there is this real legal reality to guilt there's also a felt reality -[3564.40 --> 3572.68] to guilt right we sometimes feel guilty and the difference between guilt and shame is that that God -[3572.68 --> 3581.44] will use our guilt and our feelings of guilt to drive us to himself in fact he will even send or give -[3581.44 --> 3589.30] guilt or conviction of guilt by the Holy Spirit in order to drive us to him let me give you an example -[3589.30 --> 3597.64] of what I mean some of you are familiar with the the beautiful words of Heidelberg Catechism question -[3597.64 --> 3603.24] and answer one right the question asks what is your only comfort in life and in death and then there's -[3603.24 --> 3609.56] this beautiful summary that has that for hundreds of years been speaking truth and love to the church of -[3609.56 --> 3615.86] Jesus in the reformed tradition that says that I am not my own but belong body and soul in life and in -[3615.86 --> 3622.62] death to my faithful Savior Jesus Christ by his precious blood he has set me free from the tyranny -[3622.62 --> 3628.00] of the devil and he also watches over me in such a way that not a hair can fall from my head without -[3628.00 --> 3635.60] the will of my Father in heaven in fact all things must work together for my salvation because I belong to -[3635.60 --> 3642.30] him Christ by his Holy Spirit assures me of eternal life and makes me wholeheartedly willing and ready -[3642.30 --> 3656.70] from now on to live for him those are beautiful beautiful words how many of you know the second question -[3656.70 --> 3664.24] of the catechism at the second question of the catechism or you hear the first question and answer -[3664.24 --> 3669.96] and you hear the beauty in it and you go I want that that's the second question and the second -[3669.96 --> 3677.84] question is what must I know to live and die in the joy of this comfort the joy of this comfort that's -[3677.84 --> 3688.86] a spelling mistake on my end and then the answer given is three things one I must know how great my sin -[3688.86 --> 3697.64] and misery are I must know my guilt and I must know how I am set free from all my sins and misery and -[3697.64 --> 3706.32] then three how I am to thank God for such deliverance the teaching of the catechism here is in short if you -[3706.32 --> 3715.78] want to know the joy and the comfort of the gospel it starts with the truth of our guilt and sin -[3715.78 --> 3725.02] right the depth of our guilt makes so much more of the majesty and the compelling glory of Jesus and -[3725.02 --> 3733.38] his gospel right our guilt reveals our need for grace which then together fuels our gratitude -[3733.38 --> 3743.86] now again our culture and the world apart from redemption apart from the the working of God and -[3743.86 --> 3749.94] the Holy Spirit doesn't like that idea right the idea that we are all guilty and under wrath the -[3749.94 --> 3757.92] idea that we are justly deserving of judgment doesn't fit with our cultural self-justifying anthropology -[3757.92 --> 3764.62] right in our world today we see ourselves in the best light whether it's because of human pride or -[3764.62 --> 3771.68] because we've finally made it in progress or the like now to be fair that idea that the world doesn't -[3771.68 --> 3781.48] like this isn't a new thing right and so particularly for you young people who will live in the midst of -[3781.48 --> 3791.78] this more explicitly than some of us older people hear this the world apart from God's revelation of -[3791.78 --> 3799.50] himself apart from God's redeeming work in the Holy Spirit has never liked this truth in fact Jesus says -[3799.50 --> 3806.86] that it goes even further than not liking it right in in John 7 Jesus says that the world hates him -[3806.86 --> 3812.34] because he testifies to the world that its works are evil -[3812.34 --> 3819.52] and in John 17 Jesus takes this idea and he draws a straight line and he says that the world hates his -[3819.52 --> 3829.12] disciples because they have been given the word of God to preach and that word starts with our sin and our -[3829.12 --> 3839.38] just condemnation and so this is the context in which we find ourselves and like Jesus and like the first -[3839.38 --> 3847.96] disciples part of the church's job then is to to clear our guilt because of sin and to guide people towards -[3847.96 --> 3861.06] God because like Isaiah says all our best efforts are filthy rags we can't do it and God will use our -[3861.06 --> 3870.42] feelings of guilt to reveal the legal reality of being guilty we can't get away from it and as Christians -[3870.42 --> 3873.94] we cannot be afraid of that part of the gospel -[3873.94 --> 3882.12] because as we've seen in order to know the comfort and joy we must start with the sin and misery we must -[3882.12 --> 3889.16] start with the guilt but now let's been making that distinction from guilt and shame let's come back to -[3889.16 --> 3901.70] the major theme in this series in this psalm on shame then as a perversion of the way guilt can be used by God -[3901.70 --> 3911.78] right so instead of guilt being a tool of God to draw us to himself our culture and even some of us -[3911.78 --> 3921.04] sitting here this morning weaponizes shame to drive people away from community to drive people away from -[3921.04 --> 3928.20] public spaces this is the root of the so-called cancel culture that is so prevalent and that it depends on -[3928.20 --> 3935.88] the power of shame as the force that isolates and excludes the power of shame that forces people -[3935.88 --> 3944.94] into hiding and personal shame does the same thing now I'm I mentioned at the beginning that our focus -[3944.94 --> 3950.60] is from verse 15 to 17 and so I want you to to see that and so please if you have bibles open -[3950.60 --> 3958.36] look at that with me together because I think this is a good snapshot of our experience of shame -[3958.36 --> 3968.20] and so the psalmist begins in verse 15 I live in disgrace all day long now one of the things that -[3968.20 --> 3976.74] the the shame voice does in our heads is that it constantly reminds us of our shame right literally -[3976.74 --> 3984.96] in in Hebrew that line says that all day long my humiliation my disgrace or my dishonor is in front -[3984.96 --> 3996.70] of me right our shame becomes our fixation right it's all we see it fills our vision our idea of ourself -[3996.70 --> 4003.80] and it fills our idea of ourself and it becomes all that we are able to see and because that's how we see -[4003.80 --> 4009.76] ourselves we begin to believe that that's the only way that people around us will ever see us -[4009.76 --> 4018.52] again allander and and longman they say shame attacks the self in terms of identity -[4018.52 --> 4026.14] i am a fill in the blank is the syntax of shame -[4026.14 --> 4035.00] the psalmist goes on he says my face is covered with shame at the taunts of those who reproach and -[4035.00 --> 4035.96] revile me -[4035.96 --> 4048.16] shame shame makes us afraid of what others might say about us or more accurately our shame makes us -[4048.16 --> 4054.88] believe that if they ever saw the real me if they ever saw the struggling me or the guilty me that they -[4054.88 --> 4059.78] could never love me right that i would revile them or i would repel them -[4059.78 --> 4067.96] and with all the pastoral sensitivity i can muster you know what i mean -[4067.96 --> 4077.40] when i say that i have lived that and felt that and i'm sure that you have too -[4077.40 --> 4088.58] and then the way that so many of us have learned to handle our shame is to dissociate from it right -[4088.58 --> 4092.96] and by that i mean we we blame someone else or we bury it deeper -[4092.96 --> 4102.32] the psalmist does the first he blames someone else and in fact the psalmist as we'll see he blames -[4102.32 --> 4109.72] god look at look at what he says right all this came upon us verse 17 that is he felt all that -[4109.72 --> 4116.32] shame all that reproach and revile though we had not forgotten you though we had not been false to -[4116.32 --> 4122.30] your covenant right and with your bibles open we can keep going through there right um our hearts had -[4122.30 --> 4129.66] not turned back our feet had not strayed but you crushed us you covered us in darkness right what is -[4129.66 --> 4136.00] the automatic default response of shame to blame someone else to blame god and then to call it an -[4136.00 --> 4144.18] injustice right he does this at the beginning in verse 9 you have rejected us and humbled us and in -[4144.18 --> 4149.40] fact in hebrew the word that's used there is stronger than humbled right which sometimes in -[4149.40 --> 4156.46] christian circles we hold up as a virtue here it's it's humiliated that you put us to shame -[4156.46 --> 4162.42] then he goes on he says you made us retreat and our enemies have plundered us you gave us up to be -[4162.42 --> 4169.76] devoured like sheep but here what the psalmist is doing in his shame he's making god the source -[4169.76 --> 4172.48] now -[4172.48 --> 4183.82] i'm going to say something here i'm going to slow down because i want you to hear it because i think the -[4183.82 --> 4195.24] distinction is critical god is the source of their circumstance right that's what it means when we -[4195.24 --> 4203.30] say god is sovereign god is the source of their circumstance but he is not the source of the -[4203.30 --> 4211.44] meaning that they make of their circumstance do you get what i mean when i make that distinction -[4211.44 --> 4216.70] let me give let me give you an example so we've already talked about from the heidelberg catechism -[4216.70 --> 4221.42] that not a hair can fall from my head without the will of my father in heaven that's the sovereignty of -[4221.42 --> 4233.44] god right but if i go bald and then i blame god for making me ugly because not a hair can fall from -[4233.44 --> 4239.54] my head sorry all you bald men out there but if i blame god for making me ugly because i'm bald -[4239.54 --> 4246.28] that i am making him the source of a meaning that i have made do you see the difference -[4246.28 --> 4253.80] now maybe that's a rather inane example but we do the same thing with more complex emotional -[4253.80 --> 4259.98] realities and feelings and the meanings that we make around them for instance -[4259.98 --> 4268.80] maybe maybe i struggle with certain particular temptations or maybe you struggle with certain -[4268.80 --> 4276.22] particular temptations maybe it's sexual desires or jealousy or coveting whatever the complex emotion -[4276.22 --> 4284.84] is the complex temptation is for you now we know right that that god allows temptations to come -[4284.84 --> 4291.90] that he permits certain desires to continue even though they aren't a reflection of his design -[4291.90 --> 4298.52] for creation but rather that they're the result of sin in the world and of all of creation groaning -[4298.52 --> 4304.60] under the weight of that sin right and part of why god does that is to show our need for him -[4304.60 --> 4310.50] right to show our dependence on him to show that he provides a way out in the face of these things -[4310.50 --> 4322.34] but if instead when we feel that temptation or when we have that desire and we make the meaning that god gave -[4322.34 --> 4328.74] it to me therefore it must be good therefore i must be allowed to act on it we've made a meaning of our -[4328.74 --> 4336.44] circumstances that attribute divine permission to the desire just because we feel that circumstance -[4336.44 --> 4343.38] just because it's come about right and because god is sovereign over the circumstance we've taken the -[4343.38 --> 4349.72] truth that god is sovereign over the circumstance and we've conflated it with the meaning that i am -[4349.72 --> 4354.30] making about the situation or the feelings i have about a situation -[4354.30 --> 4363.62] no we don't need to parse all of that out and i hope that you can see that that conflation is actually -[4363.62 --> 4369.94] applicable to so many more things than just our conversation around shame and the places that it -[4369.94 --> 4378.82] happens in our lives but taking this truth and bringing it back around to shame and how we handle it -[4378.82 --> 4388.62] what we do when we feel shame is make god responsible or at least we make someone else responsible as a proxy -[4388.62 --> 4397.46] for god and then it transforms what should be adding to our guilt right or should be increasing our shame -[4397.46 --> 4404.70] and then we turn it into a virtue we end up redefining sin as something that the world celebrates or at least -[4404.70 --> 4412.12] we try to do that we do it as a way to try to mitigate or lessen our experience of that shame -[4412.12 --> 4416.32] and yet somehow it just doesn't seem to work -[4416.32 --> 4420.50] now as i've said -[4420.50 --> 4429.34] if one of the first things we do is to blame someone else second thing we do is to bury it deeper or by -[4429.34 --> 4437.84] burying ourselves deeper we hide it or we hide ourselves and again this gets right at the root of -[4437.84 --> 4446.12] how shame functions in the cry of the soul the authors define shame as the the traumatic exposure -[4446.12 --> 4455.62] of nakedness and what is revealed we feel is an inner ugliness now this goes all the way back -[4455.62 --> 4465.22] to chapter 3 of genesis right in the garden of eden adam and eve's first sin they eat the fruit of the tree -[4465.22 --> 4470.76] that god told them not to eat and then god comes walking through the garden in the cool of the day -[4470.76 --> 4473.44] we read and he calls out for them he says where are you -[4473.44 --> 4482.92] and adam hiding answers i heard you in the garden and i was afraid because i was naked -[4482.92 --> 4484.48] so i hid -[4484.48 --> 4487.60] now notice this about the story -[4487.60 --> 4491.14] and adam and eve have always been naked -[4491.14 --> 4497.80] right they've always been naked in this story that symbolically right nothing is hidden from god -[4497.80 --> 4505.62] he knows and has always known their nakedness it is their experience of their nakedness or more -[4505.62 --> 4513.04] accurately it is the meaning that they make of their nakedness that makes them afraid and causes -[4513.04 --> 4523.38] them to hide that's shame right guilt should drive them towards god towards him in his open arms shame -[4523.38 --> 4532.18] makes them hide shame is the fear of being found out or exposed so we hide all right we've said it before -[4532.18 --> 4538.74] and in fact pastor kevin did an awesome job last week of restating this idea right that that one -[4538.74 --> 4545.54] definition of hell and this goes all the way back to augustine and to the apostle paul before him -[4545.54 --> 4550.18] one definition of hell is utter separation from god -[4550.18 --> 4562.42] shame is like a self-imposed hell as we run and hide from god and from others for fear of what they might say of us -[4562.42 --> 4569.14] now i know there's been a lot of quotes from the cry of the soul this morning -[4569.14 --> 4574.18] but i want to give you one more maybe one more maybe two more but this one's so good -[4574.18 --> 4583.94] they write shame is an acid that strips us of our dignity and dissolves hope -[4583.94 --> 4594.56] no other emotion better portrays hell the utter loss of intimacy wonder and joy its corrosive effect -[4594.56 --> 4601.12] is so strong that it can mold our souls and shake the shape the direction of our lives -[4601.12 --> 4609.78] in the story of the fall right the rebellion against god adam and eve hide in their shame and in fact -[4609.78 --> 4614.74] if you know that story right when god finds them and they come out what do they do -[4614.74 --> 4625.10] they blame god right adam says it's the woman he's not blaming the woman first because she is a proxy -[4625.10 --> 4636.60] it's the woman you put me here with right this is your fault god right then eve he turns to eve and eve said -[4636.60 --> 4643.56] it was the serpent right which again in in the context is also blaming god right she doesn't know -[4643.56 --> 4648.86] that the serpent is the devil in disguise we know that as the reader but to her it's just another of -[4648.86 --> 4659.00] the creatures that god made you made this thing it's your fault you put the temptation there it's your fault -[4659.00 --> 4666.16] right they hide and they blame others they blame god and when it comes to shame we have been doing the -[4666.16 --> 4676.82] same thing ever since and so what are we supposed to do and how do we handle our shame now we've -[4676.82 --> 4683.06] already mentioned how our culture likes to use shame or to weaponize shame and how many of us carry shame -[4683.06 --> 4688.78] in different places and around different circumstances and with that or in response to that -[4688.78 --> 4698.34] what our culture likes to do and teach is that the shame is generally understood as a poor self-esteem -[4698.34 --> 4707.72] or a wrong self-image or it's a misunderstanding of who you are so the the cultural solution to shame -[4707.72 --> 4715.06] is one to not do shameful things perhaps but but even more than that right it's two it's to flip your -[4715.06 --> 4721.38] understanding of yourself right because if it's ultimately about poor self-esteem what is needed -[4721.38 --> 4729.92] is to increase our esteem right we need to take on a perspective that says that ultimately i'm not -[4729.92 --> 4736.92] that bad right at times i do bad things perhaps but if i can wrap my head around the idea our culture -[4736.92 --> 4743.34] tells us that i am essentially lovable and lovely and pure then i can live in the confidence of that -[4743.34 --> 4749.18] understanding of myself rather than in the shame of an understanding based on poor self-esteem -[4749.18 --> 4758.48] but if what the bible says about our guilt is true this real legal indebtedness right you can see that -[4758.48 --> 4764.42] the bible is actually going to teach us something different about how to handle shame right the back -[4764.42 --> 4769.84] the bible comes in and actually gives us what i believe to be a better and a more on a more accurate -[4769.84 --> 4775.66] understanding of ourselves and and our vision for ourselves in relationship to the world and in -[4775.66 --> 4782.52] relationship to the god who created it and what i think the bible will come to show us is that our -[4782.52 --> 4789.70] shame is ultimately ultimately now and we might do some work and might have to do some work to dig deep -[4789.70 --> 4797.50] through it to see how this is so but it's ultimately rooted in our preference to trust false gods -[4797.50 --> 4805.64] rather than to depend on god for each and every moment of our existence again think of adam and eve -[4805.64 --> 4814.08] in the garden right all the serpent had to do was ask one question did god really say i don't know about -[4814.08 --> 4820.66] you that's not a really convincing argument right it's not like he won them over by the logic of his -[4820.66 --> 4828.06] words it was just a simple question and instead of trusting god they trusted that they could figure -[4828.06 --> 4834.54] out better they trusted their own discernment right they made god nothing and made themselves or their -[4834.54 --> 4842.56] intellect or their ability to discern they made that god when we feel or experience shame it means -[4842.56 --> 4848.74] that somewhere along the way we have exchanged the truth of who god is for a lie -[4848.74 --> 4856.64] maybe it was the idea that sexual fulfillment or sexual release would bring us deep joy -[4856.64 --> 4864.76] but then it didn't maybe it's the idea that if i just had this thing or or that thing or or it just -[4864.76 --> 4871.90] had this spouse or if i just had a child then i would be happy and so along the way in order to get -[4871.90 --> 4878.06] that thing we compromised our values in order to accomplish it or achieve it and then we got it -[4878.06 --> 4888.56] and it didn't feel worth it it didn't satisfy like we thought it would you see shame reveals our idols -[4888.56 --> 4894.58] and so how often then do do we trust in our finances or in our health or in our reputation -[4894.58 --> 4900.80] in children or in physical appearance or in some experience how often do we trust in those things to -[4900.80 --> 4904.80] satisfy the longings of our souls more than god -[4904.80 --> 4918.04] and even though these idols fail us over and over and shame is the consequence of that experience of -[4918.04 --> 4924.54] failure it is the same shame that keeps us trapped in them or with them and it's the same shame that -[4924.54 --> 4931.86] keeps us going back to them and in some ways the shame and and feeling shame is actually the easier -[4931.86 --> 4938.42] response and the easier reality to live in the midst of because one it's familiar -[4938.42 --> 4943.80] and we always have a tendency to stick with what we know -[4943.80 --> 4952.44] and two shame has a tendency to close off our hearts to the penetrating truth of the gospel -[4952.44 --> 4963.52] what if if instead of hiding from god that we humbled ourselves in confession -[4963.52 --> 4969.32] and turned to him if instead we we would look to god here's what we might see -[4969.32 --> 4981.86] this is verse 23 the psalmist prays he cries out awake lord why do you sleep rouse yourself -[4981.86 --> 4987.78] do not reject us why do you hide your face and forget our misery and oppression we are brought down -[4987.78 --> 4997.86] to the dust and our bodies cling to the ground here it is rise up and help us rescue us because of your -[4997.86 --> 5001.00] unfailing love -[5001.00 --> 5004.94] the unfailing love -[5004.94 --> 5007.98] unfailing love of god -[5007.98 --> 5011.42] moves him to rescue -[5011.42 --> 5013.40] his guilty -[5013.40 --> 5015.06] people -[5015.06 --> 5021.52] the unfailing love of god is what the psalmist relies on as he cries out -[5021.52 --> 5023.44] to god right that's the first thing -[5023.44 --> 5027.36] in his shame he cries out to god right he's been on a journey -[5027.36 --> 5031.72] that gets him to this place where he can finally do that -[5031.72 --> 5036.68] and in the end he cries out to god and because he comes -[5036.68 --> 5042.78] to realize that it is it is finally only god who can help him -[5042.78 --> 5044.64] and remember -[5044.64 --> 5047.86] like in the garden of eden right when adam and eve -[5047.86 --> 5052.20] hid notice it was god who first went looking -[5052.20 --> 5053.18] for them -[5053.18 --> 5056.42] right it was god who was walking through -[5056.42 --> 5058.58] the garden and calling out to them -[5058.58 --> 5060.44] it was god who was -[5060.44 --> 5061.84] kneeling down -[5061.84 --> 5063.90] beside lifting up -[5063.90 --> 5066.10] the blanket and saying where are you -[5066.10 --> 5067.58] my son -[5067.58 --> 5073.16] god is walking through the garden and when we turn to god -[5073.16 --> 5077.36] we will see that he has moved towards us -[5077.36 --> 5084.06] when we turn our hearts to god we will see jesus and when we see jesus when we see -[5084.06 --> 5088.32] the one who lived the life i should have lived and the one who who died the death that i -[5088.32 --> 5095.52] deserve when we fix our eyes on jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith like the author to the letter of hebrews says -[5095.52 --> 5107.52] we see jesus the one who for the joy set before him endured the cross scorning its shame and sat down at the right hand of the throne of god -[5107.52 --> 5113.12] he scorned the shame of the cross so that you might know victory -[5113.12 --> 5118.58] right true victory over not just your shame but your guilt -[5118.58 --> 5126.54] true victory the bible has a different solution to our feelings of shame than the world will offer you -[5126.54 --> 5131.64] the world will tell you that you are a good person and you just need to think more highly of yourself -[5131.64 --> 5133.00] the bible says -[5133.00 --> 5134.44] that you not -[5134.44 --> 5135.96] or you ought not to think -[5135.96 --> 5140.24] more highly of yourselves but rather you must put others ahead of yourselves -[5140.24 --> 5144.84] the bible holds up jesus and the gospel as the only real solution -[5144.84 --> 5146.30] to our shame -[5146.30 --> 5151.04] right on the cross jesus was willing to be shamed -[5151.04 --> 5152.92] for you -[5152.92 --> 5155.56] that is your value -[5155.56 --> 5157.98] that is your identity -[5157.98 --> 5162.76] remember your shame voice speaks against identity -[5162.76 --> 5168.92] the gospel speaks a new identity over you -[5168.92 --> 5174.32] a new identity in jesus christ one that -[5174.32 --> 5181.02] transforms you by the power of the holy spirit by the renewing of your mind into the -[5181.02 --> 5183.20] image of his son you -[5183.20 --> 5184.84] by grace -[5184.84 --> 5186.14] through faith -[5186.14 --> 5187.30] are a new -[5187.30 --> 5188.42] creation -[5188.42 --> 5189.98] a lavishly -[5189.98 --> 5190.82] loved -[5190.82 --> 5191.90] child -[5191.90 --> 5193.40] of the father -[5193.40 --> 5195.80] that is who you are -[5195.80 --> 5196.70] amen -[5196.70 --> 5198.62] amen -[5198.62 --> 5199.74] let's pray together -[5204.32 --> 5209.06] lord our god -[5209.06 --> 5216.38] help us to see who we are through your eyes -[5216.38 --> 5224.82] god even in the truth of our guilt -[5224.82 --> 5231.20] the truth of our sin and misery you have made new life possible -[5231.20 --> 5243.70] by living on our behalf perfectly by dying on the cross in our place and by being raised three days later victorious over sin and death you now -[5243.70 --> 5245.60] hand us -[5245.60 --> 5247.72] new birth -[5247.72 --> 5252.46] this is who we are -[5252.46 --> 5257.86] and so god when that voice of shame rises up -[5257.86 --> 5263.82] help us to press it back to push it away -[5263.82 --> 5267.12] help us to cry out to you -[5267.12 --> 5268.00] lord -[5268.00 --> 5270.68] rise up and help us -[5270.68 --> 5272.32] rescue us -[5272.32 --> 5273.66] because of your -[5273.66 --> 5275.06] unfailing -[5275.06 --> 5276.02] love -[5276.02 --> 5286.70] as we see the truth of your gospel more clearly this morning may we in it see the truth of who we are more clearly as well -[5286.70 --> 5288.14] and may our hearts -[5288.14 --> 5290.50] affections for you lord jesus -[5290.50 --> 5292.08] be stirred -[5292.08 --> 5294.36] may our confidence be found -[5294.36 --> 5295.30] in you -[5295.30 --> 5298.02] may our eyes forever be fixed -[5298.02 --> 5299.14] on -[5299.14 --> 5300.12] you -[5300.12 --> 5302.72] in jesus name we pray -[5302.72 --> 5304.20] amen -[5304.20 --> 5311.02] as we fix our eyes on -[5311.02 --> 5314.88] jesus we have the opportunity to come together to the table -[5314.88 --> 5316.32] of our lord -[5316.32 --> 5318.40] this table will provide -[5318.40 --> 5321.14] clarity of vision for us -[5321.14 --> 5325.28] that we might see and hear from jesus even as we -[5325.28 --> 5327.40] taste and see that the lord -[5327.40 --> 5328.32] is good -[5328.32 --> 5334.88] as we come to this table we are going to move through a bit of a liturgy that's on the screen overhead -[5334.88 --> 5340.36] there'll be parts for you to speak i encourage you to speak those as they come -[5340.36 --> 5343.50] lift up your hearts -[5343.50 --> 5348.66] let us give thanks to the lord our god -[5348.66 --> 5352.88] let's pray together -[5352.88 --> 5367.10] with joy we praise you gracious god for you have created heaven and earth you've made us in your image and you kept covenant with us even when we fell into sin -[5367.10 --> 5376.70] we give you thanks for jesus christ who by his life death and resurrection opened to us the way of everlasting life -[5376.70 --> 5377.42] life -[5377.42 --> 5378.78] amen -[5378.78 --> 5388.54] the lord jesus before he suffered gave us this memorial of his sacrifice until he -[5388.54 --> 5389.62] comes again -[5389.62 --> 5392.54] the lord jesus on the night that he was betrayed -[5392.54 --> 5393.70] took bread -[5393.70 --> 5396.18] and when he had given thanks -[5396.18 --> 5397.74] he broke it and said -[5397.74 --> 5399.22] this is my body -[5399.22 --> 5400.42] which is for you -[5400.42 --> 5401.74] do this -[5401.74 --> 5402.66] in remembrance -[5402.66 --> 5404.06] of me -[5404.06 --> 5407.32] in the same way after supper -[5407.32 --> 5408.96] he took the cup -[5408.96 --> 5409.52] saying -[5409.52 --> 5411.08] this cup -[5411.08 --> 5412.40] is the new covenant -[5412.40 --> 5413.96] in my blood -[5413.96 --> 5416.54] do this -[5416.54 --> 5418.38] in remembrance of me -[5418.38 --> 5419.68] for whenever you eat -[5419.68 --> 5420.92] and drink -[5420.92 --> 5422.38] of this cup -[5422.38 --> 5424.36] you proclaim the lord's death -[5424.36 --> 5426.26] until he comes -[5426.26 --> 5427.02] again -[5427.02 --> 5428.20] this -[5428.20 --> 5429.74] is the mystery -[5429.74 --> 5431.24] of our faith -[5431.24 --> 5436.64] resurrection -[5436.64 --> 5437.78] we affirm -[5437.78 --> 5438.40] with joy -[5438.40 --> 5439.90] you're coming -[5439.90 --> 5440.58] we await -[5440.58 --> 5441.20] with hope -[5441.20 --> 5442.60] you're going -[5442.60 --> 5443.14] to be you -[5443.14 --> 5444.04] lord jesus -[5444.04 --> 5446.20] church family -[5446.20 --> 5447.98] the lord has prepared his table -[5447.98 --> 5449.36] for all who love him -[5449.36 --> 5451.62] and for all who trust in him alone -[5451.62 --> 5452.86] for their salvation -[5452.86 --> 5453.54] and so -[5453.54 --> 5455.26] come to this table -[5455.26 --> 5457.38] you who have much faith -[5457.38 --> 5459.22] and you who would like to have more -[5459.22 --> 5460.72] come to this table -[5460.72 --> 5462.32] you who have been to this sacrament -[5462.32 --> 5462.98] often -[5462.98 --> 5465.90] and you who have not been for a long time -[5465.90 --> 5468.06] you who have tried to follow jesus -[5468.06 --> 5470.14] and you who have failed -[5470.14 --> 5471.42] come to this table -[5471.42 --> 5474.84] because jesus christ is raised -[5474.84 --> 5476.52] come if you are here -[5476.52 --> 5478.46] or if you are online -[5478.46 --> 5479.76] it is christ -[5479.76 --> 5481.34] who invites us -[5481.34 --> 5482.72] to meet him -[5482.72 --> 5483.52] here -[5483.52 --> 5486.14] these are the gifts of god -[5486.14 --> 5487.32] for the people -[5487.32 --> 5488.48] of god -[5488.48 --> 5491.32] if you are visiting with us -[5491.32 --> 5493.04] as we come to the table -[5493.04 --> 5493.64] the way that we -[5493.64 --> 5494.76] do that is -[5494.76 --> 5496.24] we gather up at the front -[5496.24 --> 5497.22] so there will be elders -[5497.22 --> 5498.10] who move through -[5498.10 --> 5499.28] indicating your row -[5499.28 --> 5500.60] to come up to the front -[5500.60 --> 5501.66] we'll gather in a circle -[5501.66 --> 5502.54] we will serve -[5502.54 --> 5503.98] to you the bread -[5503.98 --> 5504.56] and then -[5504.56 --> 5505.86] serve to you the juice -[5505.86 --> 5506.46] as you -[5506.46 --> 5508.26] pass the bread -[5508.26 --> 5509.66] to the person beside you -[5509.66 --> 5511.18] say the body of christ -[5511.18 --> 5511.96] given for you -[5511.96 --> 5513.04] and as you pass the -[5513.04 --> 5514.80] juice to the person beside you -[5514.80 --> 5516.08] say the blood of christ -[5516.08 --> 5517.34] shed for you -[5517.34 --> 5519.30] to begin i'd like to invite -[5519.30 --> 5520.42] the worship team -[5520.42 --> 5521.44] and the serving elders -[5521.44 --> 5523.00] and those with them -[5523.00 --> 5523.78] to come to the front -[5523.78 --> 5524.92] we will serve them first -[5524.92 --> 5526.10] and then we will -[5526.10 --> 5527.42] move through -[5527.42 --> 5528.46] as you are -[5528.46 --> 5529.30] indicated -[5529.30 --> 5530.98] with the worship team -[5530.98 --> 5532.28] leading us -[5532.28 --> 5533.44] in worship together -[5533.44 --> 5540.44] you -[5547.34 --> 5555.86] the body of christ -[5555.86 --> 5556.58] given for you -[5556.58 --> 5560.00] the body of christ -[5560.00 --> 5560.98] given for you -[5560.98 --> 5564.50] the body of christ -[5566.60 --> 5567.30] given for you -[5567.30 --> 5569.22] the body of christ -[5569.22 --> 5569.80] given for you -[5569.80 --> 5570.04] the body of christ -[5570.04 --> 5571.14] given for you -[5577.34 --> 5599.68] Eat and remember. -[5607.34 --> 5634.64] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[5637.34 --> 5667.32] Thank you. -[5667.34 --> 5675.92] Drink and believe. -[5675.92 --> 5705.90] Thank you. -[5705.92 --> 5735.90] Thank you. -[5735.92 --> 5737.92] Thank you. -[5737.92 --> 5745.92] My Lord, what love is this? -[5745.92 --> 5753.92] That pays so dearly. -[5753.92 --> 5767.92] That I, the guilty one, may go free. -[5767.92 --> 5781.92] Amazing love, oh, what sacrifice the Son of God given for me. -[5781.92 --> 5789.92] My daddy prays and my death he does. -[5789.92 --> 5795.92] That I find Him. -[5795.92 --> 5805.92] That I, the guilty one, may go free. -[5805.92 --> 5815.92] And so they watched and died. -[5815.92 --> 5831.92] I despise, rejected, but all the love is shared. -[5831.92 --> 5837.92] God, Lord, what sacrifice the Son of God given for me. -[5837.92 --> 5853.92] Amazing God, oh, what sacrifice the Son of God given for me. -[5853.92 --> 5855.92] My dad, he pays. -[5855.92 --> 5857.92] My dad, he pays. -[5857.92 --> 5861.92] And my death, he dies. -[5861.92 --> 5867.92] That I, the name. -[5867.92 --> 5869.92] That I, the name of God. -[5869.92 --> 5871.92] That I, the name of God. -[5871.92 --> 5873.92] That I, the name of God. -[5873.92 --> 5875.92] That I, the name of God. -[5875.92 --> 5879.92] That I, the name of God. -[5879.92 --> 5883.88] God, His name of God. -[5883.88 --> 5887.96] Amen, I love you. -[5888.98 --> 5891.98] Pow,ase look yearon, Nathan! -[5891.98 --> 5894.04] Now, the great thing shall see... -[5894.34 --> 5898.34] Vulcan e Lord. -[5898.34 --> 5900.30] See you again. -[5904.28 --> 5906.36] See you again. -[5906.36 --> 5923.36] Oh, yeah, amazing love, oh, what sacrifice the Son of God given for me. -[5923.36 --> 5945.52] My death He plays and my death He dies, that I might live, that I might live. -[5953.36 --> 5980.86] How deep the Father's love for us, how vast beyond all measure, -[5980.86 --> 5993.82] that He should give His only Son to make a wretch His treasure. -[5995.50 --> 6007.86] How great the pain of searing loss, the Father turns His face away, -[6007.86 --> 6019.78] as wounds which mar the Chosen One, bring many sons to glory. -[6019.78 --> 6041.78] Behold the man upon the cross, my sin upon His shoulders. -[6041.78 --> 6055.68] Ashamed, I hear my walking voice call out among the soft birds. -[6055.68 --> 6067.68] It was my sin that held Him bare, until it was accomplished. -[6069.28 --> 6080.34] His dying breath has brought me life, I know that it is finished. -[6080.34 --> 6104.26] I will not boast in anything, no gifts, no power, no wisdom. -[6104.26 --> 6117.18] But I will boast in Jesus Christ, His death and resurrection. -[6117.18 --> 6124.18] Why should I gain from His reward? -[6124.18 --> 6130.18] I cannot give an answer. -[6130.18 --> 6143.02] But this I know with all my heart, His wounds have made my ransom. -[6143.02 --> 6173.00] His wounds have made my ransom. -[6173.00 --> 6177.00] I am wide, once high and flying at his groan, and keep my permission. -[6177.58 --> 6187.30] I -[6187.30 --> 6217.28] Thank you. -[6217.30 --> 6237.26] I know a place, a wonderful place, where accused and condemned by mercy and grace, -[6237.26 --> 6251.26] where the wrongs we have done and the wrongs done to us were nailed there within, -[6251.26 --> 6258.26] there at the cross. -[6258.26 --> 6269.26] At the cross, we died for our sin. -[6270.06 --> 6279.26] At the cross, you gave us life again. -[6279.26 --> 6302.26] I know a place, a wonderful place, where accused and condemned by mercy and grace, -[6302.26 --> 6317.26] where the wrongs we have done and the wrongs done to us were nailed there with you, -[6317.26 --> 6323.26] there on the cross. -[6324.26 --> 6333.26] At the cross, you died for our sin. -[6333.26 --> 6343.26] At the cross, you gave us life again. -[6343.26 --> 6353.26] At the cross, you died for our sin. -[6353.26 --> 6364.26] At the cross, you gave us life again. -[6364.26 --> 6377.26] I know a place, a wonderful place. -[6377.26 --> 6398.26] At the cross, you gave us life again. -[6398.26 --> 6399.26] Living Hope. -[6399.26 --> 6414.26] How great the chasm that lay between us! -[6414.26 --> 6430.26] How high the mountain I could not climb! -[6430.26 --> 6444.26] In desperation, I turned to heaven, and spoke your name into the light. -[6444.26 --> 6458.26] Then through the darkness, your loving kindness tore through the shadows of my soul. -[6458.26 --> 6465.26] The world is finished, the end is written, -[6465.26 --> 6473.26] Jesus Christ, my living hope. -[6473.26 --> 6483.26] Who could imagine so great a mercy? -[6483.26 --> 6486.26] What heart could imagine so great a mercy? -[6486.26 --> 6490.26] What heart could fathom such proudest grace? -[6490.26 --> 6497.26] The God of ages, stepped down from glory, -[6497.26 --> 6504.26] To wear my sin and bear my shame. -[6504.26 --> 6506.26] The death, the grace of God. -[6506.26 --> 6507.26] The mother, I bring with me now! -[6507.26 --> 6508.26] The Wraith. -[6508.26 --> 6511.26] The wicked number I承è examination. -[6511.26 --> 6517.26] The hand, this is what will see. -[6517.26 --> 6525.26] Please say purpose boldly. -[6525.26 --> 6530.26] Who could imagine so great and du�ation? -[6530.26 --> 6532.26] Hallelujah -[6532.26 --> 6539.64] Praise the one who set me free -[6539.64 --> 6542.26] Hallelujah -[6542.26 --> 6546.50] Death has lost its grip on me -[6546.50 --> 6549.26] You are broken and reaching -[6549.82 --> 6553.28] There's salvation in your name -[6553.28 --> 6559.26] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[6559.26 --> 6561.26] Hallelujah -[6561.26 --> 6566.60] Praise the one who set me free -[6566.60 --> 6568.26] Hallelujah -[6568.26 --> 6573.26] Death has lost its grip on me -[6573.26 --> 6576.60] You are broken and reaching -[6576.60 --> 6580.00] There's salvation in your name -[6580.00 --> 6585.46] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[6589.26 --> 6596.60] Then came the morning that sealed the promise -[6596.60 --> 6603.26] Your buried body began to breathe -[6603.26 --> 6610.60] Out of the silence the roaring lion -[6610.60 --> 6616.60] Declared grave has no claim on me -[6616.60 --> 6623.60] Then came the morning that sealed the promise -[6623.60 --> 6630.94] Your buried body began to breathe -[6630.94 --> 6636.94] Out of the silence the roaring lion -[6636.94 --> 6643.94] Jesus, the great God's no claim on me -[6643.94 --> 6651.28] Jesus, the Lord, here is a great glory -[6651.28 --> 6655.94] Hallelujah -[6655.94 --> 6660.94] Praise the one who set me free -[6660.94 --> 6662.94] Hallelujah -[6662.94 --> 6667.66] Hallelujah, death has lost his grip on me. -[6667.66 --> 6671.04] You have broken every chain. -[6671.40 --> 6674.36] There's salvation in your name. -[6674.70 --> 6679.98] Jesus Christ, my living God. -[6682.74 --> 6687.66] Hallelujah, there's no one in second place. -[6687.66 --> 6694.36] Hallelujah, death has lost his grip on me. -[6694.36 --> 6697.78] You have broken every chain. -[6698.18 --> 6701.14] There's salvation in your name. -[6701.52 --> 6707.46] Jesus Christ, my living God. -[6707.90 --> 6714.42] Jesus Christ, my living God. -[6714.42 --> 6721.12] Oh, but you are my living God. -[6728.12 --> 6730.46] Amen. Hallelujah. -[6731.32 --> 6737.82] As we go this week, go with the blessing of God that goes over you. -[6737.82 --> 6744.76] Today, I'm going to bless you with the words of Numbers 6, the priestly blessing. -[6745.72 --> 6751.44] In that text, the Lord tells Moses, this is how you are to bless the Israelites. -[6751.72 --> 6758.76] And then at the end of the blessing, he says, so they will put my name on their heads. -[6758.76 --> 6764.96] This blessing is God writing his name on you. -[6765.28 --> 6768.78] This is our identity. -[6770.18 --> 6772.42] Receive the blessing of God. -[6773.86 --> 6777.50] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[6778.16 --> 6782.32] The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[6782.32 --> 6789.28] The Lord turn his face toward you and give you his peace. -[6790.46 --> 6791.38] Amen. -[6791.38 --> 6791.52] Amen. -[6791.52 --> 6791.68] Amen. -[6791.68 --> 6820.60] Salvation comes to our God -[6820.60 --> 6825.42] Who sits upon the throne -[6825.42 --> 6831.84] And unto the Lamb -[6831.84 --> 6836.98] Praise and glory, wisdom and praise -[6836.98 --> 6842.62] Honor and power and strength -[6842.62 --> 6848.16] Lead to our God forever and ever -[6848.16 --> 6853.16] Lead to our God forever and ever -[6853.16 --> 6858.98] Lead to our God forever and ever -[6858.98 --> 6869.16] And we the weak shall be strong -[6869.16 --> 6875.16] In purpose and unity -[6875.16 --> 6880.16] Declare in our love -[6880.16 --> 6886.16] Praise and glory, wisdom and praise -[6886.16 --> 6891.16] Honor and power and strength -[6891.16 --> 6896.16] Lead to our God forever and ever -[6896.16 --> 6901.16] Be to our God forever and ever -[6901.16 --> 6905.16] Be to our God forever and ever -[6905.16 --> 6907.16] Amen -[6907.16 --> 6909.16] Be to our God forever and ever -[6909.16 --> 6914.16] Amen -[6914.16 --> 6918.16] Be to our God forever and ever -[6918.16 --> 6920.16] Amen -[6920.16 --> 6924.16] Be to our God forever and ever -[6924.16 --> 6926.16] Be to our God forever and ever -[6926.16 --> 6928.16] Amen -[6928.16 --> 6933.16] Amen -[6933.16 --> 6937.16] Be to our God forever and ever -[6937.16 --> 6941.16] Amen -[6941.16 --> 6943.16] Be to our God forever and ever -[6943.16 --> 6944.16] Forever and ever -[6944.16 --> 6946.16] Forever and ever -[6946.16 --> 6948.16] Be to our God forever and ever -[6948.16 --> 6950.16] Amen -[6950.16 --> 6955.16] Amen -[6955.16 --> 6957.16] Be to our God forever and ever -[6957.16 --> 6959.16] Amen -[6959.16 --> 6963.16] Be to our God forever and ever -[6963.16 --> 6964.16] Amen -[6964.16 --> 6968.16] Be to our God forever and ever -[6968.16 --> 6969.16] Amen -[6969.16 --> 6970.16] All are fully in love -[6970.16 --> 6972.16] Amen -[6972.16 --> 6974.16] We love you -[6974.16 --> 6975.16] Amen -[6975.16 --> 6976.16] Be to our God forever and ever -[6976.16 --> 6977.16] Amen -[6977.16 --> 6978.16] Amen -[6978.16 --> 6979.16] Amen -[6979.16 --> 6980.16] Amen -[6980.16 --> 6982.16] Amen -[6982.16 --> 6983.16] Amen -[6983.16 --> 6984.16] Amen -[6984.16 --> 6985.16] Amen -[6985.16 --> 6986.16] Amen -[6986.16 --> 6987.16] Amen -[6987.16 --> 6988.16] Amen -[6988.16 --> 6990.16] Amen -[6990.16 --> 6991.16] Amen -[6991.16 --> 6992.16] Amen -[6992.16 --> 7022.14] Thank you. -[7022.16 --> 7052.14] Thank you. -[7052.16 --> 7082.14] Thank you. -[7082.16 --> 7112.14] Thank you. -[7112.16 --> 7142.14] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - November 20, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - November 20, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6ac5dd38a45861a2d2109b26fdc35c1b986cf182..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - November 20, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,96 +0,0 @@ -• Song lyrics about love, forgiveness, and relationships -• Announcement of fundraiser for Gems Girls and need for jar donations -• Request for volunteers to help with setup and assembly for fundraiser -• Plans for Gems event on December 1st, including preparing over 80 kilograms of flour -• Restarting and relaunching the Prayer Ministry during worship services -• New Members Class starting on December 5th for newcomers to the church community -• Safe Church Abuse Prevention Training on November 29th for volunteers -• Women's Christmas Event sign-up at the back of the room -• The speaker discusses a personal struggle with seeking comfort and material wealth, rather than living simply and trusting in God's provision. -• A confession is made based on Proverbs 30:7-9, asking God for neither poverty nor riches, but only daily bread. -• The importance of contentment and dependence on God is emphasized. -• The congregation prays to be forgiven for their selfishness and desire for more comfort. -• A prayer is offered to put God at the center of one's life and to teach them to be content with what they have. -• Worship continues with a song, "Holy, Holy, Holy", praising God's holiness and majesty. -• The congregation sings about God's glory, power, love, and purity, acknowledging that He is the only holy one. -• Worship service discussion and praise songs -• Special offering to UBCO Campus Reformed Okanagan (formerly Wellspring UBCO) -• Role of campus chaplains, led by Dr. Todd Statham -• Scripture reading from 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 -• Introduction of a new song for the Advent season -• Brief hello from a grade four class in attendance -• Discussion about trust and faith -• Renaming of Abram as Abraham and its significance -• Topic shift to promises in Children's Rural Time -• Prayer for the congregation, including requests for healing, comfort, and guidance -• Introduction to a teaching series on Psalms and emotions -• Explanation of the purpose of humanity: glorifying God and enjoying Him forever -• Reimagining the relationship between faith and feelings to understand how God's presence impacts our emotions -• Exploring hard truths about suffering, including pain caused by God's sovereignty -• Discussing the idea that sometimes God hurts us intentionally (severe mercy) -• Addressing questions of punishment vs. accident as causes of suffering -• Considering Job's dilemma in accepting good from God despite evil and injustice -• Discussion on the Heidelberg Catechism's understanding of providence -• Definition of sovereignty as God's rule and reign over the world -• Explanation of how providence is God's intimate action in human life, making His sovereignty real -• The role of suffering in bringing about or being used by God for a larger purpose -• The idea that suffering does not surprise God and does not spoil His plan for individuals and the world -• The concept that struggling with God through suffering allows people to get close enough to see His face -• How suffering helps identify what has been substituted for God in life and understand that only God can fill the longing and hole left by these substitutions. -• The sovereignty of God in all aspects of life -• Meaning and purpose in suffering and struggle -• God's plans and purposes for individuals -• God's control over all circumstances -• The hope and comfort that come from trusting in God's sovereignty -• The ability to cry out, contend with, or run to God in times of trouble -• The speaker discusses why it doesn't make sense when bad things happen and how to respond -• God's sovereignty and providence mean that his purposes may be beyond human understanding -• It is not possible for humans to know the reason behind all events, but they can trust in God's goodness and purpose -• Even in difficult circumstances, there is a "peculiar glory" being developed in those who face them -• This glory is eternal and comes from God, even if it cannot be seen or understood at the time -• The purpose of life is to glorify God and find joy in him. -• Human desires are often driven by a deeper desire for God, even if that's not consciously acknowledged. -• Life is either moving towards or away from God, with no middle ground or neutral option. -• Emotions such as anger, fear, anxiety, and shame can drive people towards or away from God. -• God reveals himself through human experiences, including emotions and struggles. -• The presence of God is often met with loneliness and silence -• God reveals Himself through struggle and suffering -• His goodness is revealed in the midst of darkness -• Glory and love are intensified against a backdrop of suffering and darkness -• There can be no resurrection without crucifixion, no glory without suffering -• Psalm readings illustrate human emotions and cries to God in times of struggle -• God's revelation is an expression of emotions and experiences that can be used by Him to reveal truth about Himself. -• The truth revealed through scripture becomes real in our experience together with others. -• God comes to us when we're unable to handle things, but He wants us to turn to Him and surrender. -• It's what we were created for, and it's available even in the midst of pain, shame, fear, or anger. -• We are welcome to join the family of God and His church, where we can be honest and authentic. -• The concept of God's presence in times of despair and suffering -• The truth that God reveals himself to us through our shame and suffering -• The idea that desperation and loneliness are not the end, but rather a stepping stone to something greater -• The ultimate culmination of all creation shouting for joy to God at the end of history -• The declaration that God is the true reality and that we are his people, created by him and dependent on him -• Worship of Jesus as Lord -• Judgment or redemption through worship -• Being a sheep of God's pasture and chosen people -• Knowing Jesus and living according to his life and death -• Redemption through sin and resurrection of Jesus -• Resurrection as the end of the story, not current circumstances -• The purpose of life is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever -• A severe mercy now may be better than an eternal judgment later -• Afflictions in the present can produce an eternal weight of glory -• Fix your eyes on things unseen, not just those seen or rational -• Trust in God who guides and holds creation together -• The Lord is good, His love endures forever, and His faithfulness continues through all generations -• Prayer for faithfulness and trust -• Recognition of being God's people, the sheep of His pasture -• Request for guidance in finding those who have wandered away -• Worship and praise to God through Jesus Christ -• Reflection on the wonder of creation and recognition of God as saviour -• Expression of gratitude and love for God -• Discussion of God's greatness and praise -• The significance of Christ's sacrifice on the cross -• Comfort and reassurance in difficult times -• Reminders to follow up with fellowship after the service -• Upcoming church events (children's choir practice, 20-20) -• Blessing and protection from God for those leaving -There is no transcript provided for me to summarize. Please provide the transcript, and I will summarize it into a short list of main topics discussed or mentioned. \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - November 20, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - November 20, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6af1032853e5aa601f491bc37e6d8c5757070df0..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - November 20, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1839 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.00] . -[30.00 --> 32.00] . -[60.00 --> 62.00] . -[90.00 --> 92.00] . -[120.00 --> 122.00] . -[122.00 --> 124.00] . -[124.00 --> 126.00] . -[126.00 --> 128.00] . -[128.00 --> 130.00] . -[131.26 --> 137.00] . -[137.00 --> 141.00] . -[141.00 --> 143.00] . -[143.00 --> 145.00] . -[145.00 --> 147.00] . -[147.00 --> 149.00] . -[149.00 --> 149.50] . -[149.50 --> 179.48] Thank you. -[179.50 --> 209.48] Thank you. -[209.50 --> 211.50] Thank you. -[239.50 --> 241.50] Thank you. -[269.50 --> 271.50] Thank you. -[271.50 --> 273.50] Thank you. -[301.50 --> 303.50] Thank you. -[331.50 --> 333.50] Thank you. -[333.50 --> 335.50] Thank you. -[335.50 --> 337.50] Thank you. -[337.50 --> 339.50] Thank you. -[339.50 --> 365.30] I want you as you are not as you ought to be -[365.30 --> 370.24] Won't you lay down your guard and come to me -[370.24 --> 375.90] The shame that grips you now is crippling -[375.90 --> 381.26] It breaks my heart to see you suffering -[381.26 --> 384.74] Cause I am for you -[384.74 --> 388.64] I'm not against you -[388.64 --> 394.02] If you wanna know how far my love can go -[394.02 --> 397.60] Just how deep, just how wide -[397.60 --> 401.50] If you wanna see how much you mean to me -[401.50 --> 405.28] Look at my hands, look at my side -[405.28 --> 410.50] If you could count the times that day you are forgiven -[410.50 --> 413.98] It's more than the drops in the ocean -[413.98 --> 425.66] Don't think you need to settle for a substitute -[425.66 --> 431.14] When I'm the only love that changes you -[431.14 --> 433.86] And I am for you -[433.86 --> 437.88] I'm not against you -[437.88 --> 441.54] I am for you -[441.54 --> 445.12] I'm not against you -[445.12 --> 447.12] I'm not against you -[447.12 --> 451.02] If you wanna know how far my love can go -[451.02 --> 454.60] Just how deep, just how wide -[454.60 --> 458.50] If you wanna see how much you mean to me -[458.50 --> 462.28] Look at my hands, look at my side -[462.28 --> 467.86] If you could count the times that day you are forgiven -[467.86 --> 471.34] More than the drops in the ocean -[471.34 --> 474.82] Open your heart -[474.82 --> 477.82] It's time that we start again -[477.82 --> 482.56] Open your heart, it's time that we start again -[482.56 --> 490.10] Open your heart, it's time that we start again -[490.10 --> 496.08] If you wanna know how far my love can go -[496.08 --> 499.28] Just how deep, just how wide -[499.28 --> 503.54] If you wanna see how much you mean to me -[503.54 --> 506.86] Look at my hands, look at my side -[506.86 --> 512.52] If you could count the times that day you are forgiven -[512.52 --> 515.82] It's more than the drops in the ocean -[515.82 --> 524.10] The drops in the ocean -[524.10 --> 532.14] I am for you -[532.14 --> 536.34] I'm not against you -[536.34 --> 539.74] I am for you -[539.74 --> 543.92] I'm not against you -[545.82 --> 553.80] Can an extent -[554.02 --> 555.06] Agh -[555.06 --> 556.02] S ship -[556.02 --> 556.74] G -[556.74 --> 557.30] Day -[557.30 --> 557.66] And -[557.66 --> 558.16] Still -[558.16 --> 558.86] Again -[558.86 --> 562.82] That limitation -[562.82 --> 563.02] S ship -[564.76 --> 565.98] añ -[565.98 --> 566.36] Pole -[566.36 --> 569.06] Ang -[569.06 --> 569.76] G -[570.92 --> 571.12] Ch -[571.12 --> 572.06] Sl -[572.06 --> 572.64] ob -[572.64 --> 573.12] cellphone -[573.12 --> 575.20] en -[575.20 --> 584.80] tried but never arrived i'm telling you something this racing this running oh you're working way -[584.80 --> 591.04] too hard and this perfection you're chasing just energy wasted -[591.04 --> 607.98] good morning welcome to worship we are so glad for the chance to gather together as a church family -[607.98 --> 613.46] and to worship our god if you're visiting with us or if you're joining us online for the first time -[613.46 --> 620.22] my name is chris i'm one of the pastors on staff here and it's our pleasure to lead you -[620.22 --> 625.82] in worship this morning before we begin in earnest there's a couple announcements that -[625.82 --> 633.96] need to be made first of all a number of you actually so many of you have responded -[633.96 --> 643.90] in extraordinary ways to the fundraiser that the gems girls are doing they have sold over 600 -[643.90 --> 656.00] jars of cookie recipes yeah that's amazing um but if i remember correctly that means we need 30 more -[656.00 --> 658.18] dozen jars -[658.18 --> 668.02] did i stress the anxiousness of the planners a little bit enough in there so if you are able to help -[668.02 --> 676.16] provide uh court-sized jars um we asked originally for wide mouth uh we may have cleaned langley out of -[676.16 --> 683.72] wide mouth court-sized jars so we're adjusting if you're able to provide a dozen or so or however many -[683.72 --> 692.12] you can of those please do so before this wednesday and then maybe connect with rachel and nikki ladies -[692.12 --> 696.54] can you raise your hands there you go connect with them tell them that you're able to do that -[696.54 --> 705.32] so that they know exactly how many they might need to buy to fill up the missing number as well -[705.32 --> 711.90] if you are able to help with the setup or the assembly that the gems girls are going to do that's -[711.90 --> 717.88] going to happen on december 1st which is the thursday night of gems they're going to put all those -[717.88 --> 724.34] recipes together rachel and i did the math uh we think we need over 80 kilograms of flour for -[724.34 --> 729.86] instance that has to be like sifted and separated and so it's it's going to be a thing and they need -[729.86 --> 735.92] some help and so again please talk to rachel and nikki if that's something that you can do -[735.92 --> 738.72] rachel and nikki did i say everything -[738.72 --> 748.20] just help please just help and then also thank you that's amazing and it's awesome to -[748.20 --> 754.64] see the gems girls supported in that way as well i want to bring your attention to -[754.64 --> 764.62] the not a new thing but a renewed thing we are restarting relaunching prayer ministry here -[764.62 --> 770.54] to take place during worship to have people available for someone to go back and connect -[770.54 --> 776.64] in prayer and during lord's supper to have people available for that and so we are currently working -[776.64 --> 783.80] on surrounding the leader arlene has agreed to be the leader there and surrounding her with a team -[783.80 --> 788.00] of people we've reached out to a number already but if that's something that you are interested in -[788.00 --> 794.66] participating in the commitment is once every couple months if we get a big enough team in there -[794.66 --> 799.86] and then you just sort of hang out and let people approach you and you pray with them you meet with -[799.86 --> 805.12] them in their need we're really excited about the opportunity to relaunch this here in our midst and so -[805.12 --> 810.76] if that's something that you are interested in participating in grab me or talk to arlene arlene are you -[810.76 --> 820.22] here somewhere not yet she's at the bridge right there you go so talk to me or email myself or arlene -[820.22 --> 827.32] roarsma on that additionally at the back there's a sign up for the women's christmas event that's -[827.32 --> 832.82] happening on december 9th you can get to that table sign up there you can also sign up to set a table -[832.82 --> 838.36] which is apparently a thing i don't fully understand but the details are available at the back you can grab -[838.36 --> 844.60] some of the women that are there they will explain it and then lastly for the last number of weeks -[844.60 --> 852.28] and months we've noticed and experienced a lot of guests in our midst a lot of people checking us out -[852.28 --> 858.58] for the first time or coming back regularly and so we wanted to welcome you and offer you a chance to -[858.58 --> 865.00] connect more formally and in covenant relationship with us and so beginning on december 5th we're going -[865.00 --> 871.88] to run a new members class and so i just want to encourage you if you are new to our fellowship or -[871.88 --> 878.04] if you've been checking us out we want to connect with you and draw you into our church family together -[878.04 --> 883.36] and so december 5th will be a new members class where you can ask any questions we can sort of outline -[883.36 --> 890.12] what this looks like to covenant together to partner together in our ministry with god in the community -[890.12 --> 895.88] here and so if you have any questions about that you can also grab me after the service i believe -[895.88 --> 901.24] those are the announcements that i have been given and so i'm going to invite you as you are able to -[901.24 --> 908.84] stand oh one more safe church thank you so you can stand because it's time to stretch anyway maybe -[908.84 --> 917.72] on november 29 there is a another safe church abuse prevention training we have done two of these -[917.72 --> 923.32] already back in october we really do need all of our volunteers to have gone through this training -[923.32 --> 929.40] and so if you were unable to attend on the previous ones which were on monday this one is on tuesday -[929.96 --> 937.88] for adjusting schedules and so on november 29 which is a tuesday there's a training here you can grab -[937.88 --> 943.16] whether marguerite or others on the safe church team and ask them questions there's also been a thing in the -[943.16 --> 953.48] church bulletin there so thank you for that anyone else it's dangerous time all right we gather in the -[953.48 --> 962.44] presence of our god who gathers us into himself and we mark that gathering with his blessing receive the -[962.44 --> 972.84] blessing of god grace mercy and peace to you from god our father from the lord jesus christ through the -[972.84 --> 980.76] presence and power of the holy spirit amen i'm going to invite you to just turn to those around you -[980.76 --> 986.44] and welcome them into worship you can do that with a fist bump or a handshake just make eye contact and -[986.44 --> 987.48] discern what's appropriate -[991.32 --> 992.36] morning peace of christ -[995.08 --> 996.12] morning peace of christ -[1002.84 --> 1032.52] good morning psalm 89 verses 5 to 8 we read the heavens praise your wonders lord your faithfulness too in the -[1032.52 --> 1037.00] assembly of the assembly of the holy ones for who in the skies above can compare with the lord -[1037.56 --> 1044.20] who is like the lord among the heavenly beings in the council of the holy ones god is greatly feared -[1044.20 --> 1049.88] he is more awesome than all who surround him who is like you lord god almighty -[1053.32 --> 1053.72] father -[1053.72 --> 1063.16] help us join with all of creation in praise and worship as we stand in awe of you -[1064.76 --> 1069.56] by your spirit open our eyes to see your everlasting love and faithfulness -[1071.00 --> 1074.52] who is like you oh lord amen -[1074.52 --> 1083.80] enter -[1083.80 --> 1084.80] Amen. -[1113.80 --> 1115.80] Amen. -[1143.80 --> 1145.80] Amen. -[1173.80 --> 1175.80] Amen. -[1203.80 --> 1205.80] Amen. -[1233.80 --> 1235.80] Amen. -[1263.80 --> 1265.80] Amen. -[1293.80 --> 1295.80] Amen. -[1323.80 --> 1325.80] Amen. -[1353.80 --> 1355.80] Amen. -[1383.80 --> 1385.80] Amen. -[1413.80 --> 1415.80] Amen. -[1443.80 --> 1460.32] You are holy, holy, Lord of heaven and blue, Lord of heaven and blue. -[1460.32 --> 1463.12] and -[1476.80 --> 1483.12] us -[1483.12 --> 1489.92] You are holy, holy -[1489.92 --> 1494.80] Yes, you are in your heart to me -[1494.80 --> 1501.34] You are holy, holy -[1501.34 --> 1513.10] You are holy, holy -[1513.12 --> 1524.12] You are holy, holy -[1524.12 --> 1528.18] Heaven and heaven -[1528.18 --> 1535.12] Lord of heaven and heaven -[1543.12 --> 1546.46] Our confession comes to us this morning from Proverbs 30 -[1546.46 --> 1550.28] Where it says, two things I ask of you, Lord -[1550.28 --> 1552.86] Do not refuse me before I die -[1552.86 --> 1556.74] Keep falsehood and lies far from me -[1556.74 --> 1559.84] Give me neither poverty nor riches -[1559.84 --> 1562.48] But give me only my daily bread -[1562.48 --> 1566.22] Otherwise I may have too much and disown you -[1566.22 --> 1567.80] And say, who is the Lord? -[1568.88 --> 1570.90] Or I may become poor and steal -[1570.90 --> 1573.38] And so dishonor the name of my God -[1573.38 --> 1577.84] You know, if I'm honest with myself -[1577.84 --> 1581.12] Asking God for neither poverty or riches scares me -[1581.12 --> 1584.10] I know in my head it's the right answer -[1584.10 --> 1585.42] And it's the right thing to say -[1585.42 --> 1589.78] But my old self wants more than my daily needs -[1589.78 --> 1591.58] I want to be comfortable -[1591.58 --> 1594.78] I want comfort to be important, right? -[1596.20 --> 1597.82] When I hear myself saying that -[1597.82 --> 1600.78] I recognize that pursuing life's comforts -[1601.44 --> 1603.74] Making that my passion -[1603.74 --> 1605.90] Could lead me away from the Lord -[1605.90 --> 1608.64] Replacing him as the center of my life -[1608.64 --> 1609.88] Let's pray -[1609.88 --> 1614.04] Father -[1614.04 --> 1618.52] Forgive our inclination to be selfish -[1618.52 --> 1621.20] And to want more for ourselves -[1621.20 --> 1624.26] Forgive us for trying to manipulate you -[1624.26 --> 1626.54] Into doing our bidding for our comfort -[1626.54 --> 1631.16] Lord, take your rightful place in our lives -[1631.16 --> 1633.22] And teach us to be content -[1633.22 --> 1637.98] Help us to enjoy resting in what you daily provide us -[1637.98 --> 1640.62] Captivate us with your beauty -[1640.62 --> 1644.46] May your glory shine as we continue to worship you today -[1644.46 --> 1645.58] Amen -[1645.58 --> 1649.20] Rise and sing this last song -[1649.20 --> 1651.68] Beverly Hills, Musicbee Ho satt alone -[1651.68 --> 1654.20] Glory, Naomi, Holy, Holy -[1654.20 --> 1657.10] Holy, Holyer, God, Almighty -[1657.10 --> 1663.78] Dude, Rabbi Joyce -[1663.78 --> 1664.04] Holy, Holy, Holy -[1664.04 --> 1669.70] Holy, Holy準, Holy Sunday -[1669.70 --> 1678.40] Holy, holy, Lord God Almighty -[1678.40 --> 1684.02] Early in the morning -[1684.02 --> 1688.74] God's song shall rise to thee -[1688.74 --> 1695.26] Holy, holy, holy -[1695.26 --> 1701.10] Mercy bold and mighty -[1701.10 --> 1710.56] God in three birds of blessed Trinity -[1710.56 --> 1717.82] Holy, holy, holy -[1717.82 --> 1724.24] All the saints adore thee -[1724.24 --> 1730.08] Routing down their golden crowns -[1730.08 --> 1734.08] Around the glassy sea -[1734.08 --> 1741.28] Share of him and share of him -[1741.28 --> 1746.08] Falling down before thee -[1746.08 --> 1750.92] Blue, word and heart -[1750.92 --> 1755.92] And evermore shall be -[1755.92 --> 1762.92] Holy, holy, holy -[1762.92 --> 1768.76] Though the darkness hide thee -[1768.76 --> 1772.76] Though the eye made blind -[1772.76 --> 1778.76] By sin thy glory may not see -[1778.76 --> 1786.60] Only thou art holy -[1786.60 --> 1791.60] There is none beside thee -[1791.60 --> 1796.60] Perfect in power -[1796.60 --> 1802.44] In love and purity -[1802.44 --> 1804.44] In love and purity -[1804.44 --> 1806.44] In love and purity -[1806.44 --> 1810.28] Holy, holy, holy -[1810.28 --> 1814.28] Lord God Almighty -[1814.28 --> 1816.28] All thy thanks shall praise thy name -[1816.28 --> 1818.28] In earth and sky and sea -[1818.28 --> 1828.12] Lord shall praise thy name -[1828.12 --> 1830.12] Lord shall praise thy name -[1830.12 --> 1832.12] In earth and sky and sea -[1832.12 --> 1833.96] Holy, holy, holy -[1833.96 --> 1834.96] Lord shall praise thy name -[1834.96 --> 1837.96] Lord shall praise thy name -[1837.96 --> 1839.96] All thy thanks shall praise thy name -[1839.96 --> 1841.96] Lord shall praise thy name -[1841.96 --> 1855.36] Jesus Thee, blessed and bao'li pigwi 19807 -[1871.96 --> 1892.44] Worthy is the Lamb of the Slave -[1892.44 --> 1895.80] Holy, holy is He -[1895.80 --> 1905.32] Sing a new song to Him the same song -[1905.32 --> 1909.28] Heaven's mercy sing -[1909.28 --> 1917.28] Worthy is the Lamb of the Slave -[1917.28 --> 1922.00] Holy, holy is He -[1922.00 --> 1930.80] Sing a new song to Him who sings on -[1930.80 --> 1934.52] Heaven's mercy sing -[1934.52 --> 1942.98] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty -[1942.98 --> 1947.78] Was and is and is to come -[1947.78 --> 1952.72] With all creation I sing -[1952.72 --> 1955.36] Praise to the King and King -[1955.36 --> 1958.40] You are my everything -[1958.40 --> 1961.46] And I will adore You -[1961.46 --> 1979.54] Oh, good rainbow, baby color -[1979.54 --> 1984.26] Flashes of lightning close the thunder -[1984.26 --> 1990.20] Blessing and honor, strength and glory -[1990.20 --> 1996.94] Empower me to You the only wise me -[1996.94 --> 2003.98] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty -[2003.98 --> 2008.78] Was and is and is to come -[2008.78 --> 2013.58] All creation I sing -[2013.58 --> 2016.10] Praise to the King and King -[2016.10 --> 2018.86] You are my everything -[2018.86 --> 2021.66] And I will adore You -[2021.66 --> 2037.40] Filled with wonder -[2037.40 --> 2040.14] Awestruck wonder -[2040.14 --> 2045.34] At the mention of Your name -[2045.34 --> 2047.22] Here to leant you -[2047.22 --> 2047.30] Pší in the weary -[2047.30 --> 2049.08] mandato -[2049.08 --> 2050.08] Have your face -[2050.08 --> 2052.34] You take His power -[2052.34 --> 2054.02] Breath of the ill Abi -[2054.02 --> 2054.46] 辛me -[2054.46 --> 2055.48] In the existent -[2055.48 --> 2055.88] Of the kingdom of the Holy -[2055.88 --> 2056.82] dump -[2056.82 --> 2058.32] cribing -[2058.32 --> 2059.46] You'll -[2059.46 --> 2070.40] Czy bag -[2070.40 --> 2071.50] give His power -[2071.50 --> 2072.52] God -[2072.52 --> 2081.52] Holy, holy, holy, the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come. -[2084.40 --> 2088.76] All creation I sing, praise to the King. -[2088.76 --> 2095.70] You are my everything, and I will adore you. -[2095.70 --> 2105.74] Holy, holy, holy, the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is and is to come. -[2107.86 --> 2113.36] All creation I sing, praise to the King of kings. -[2114.36 --> 2119.66] You are my everything, and I will adore you. -[2125.70 --> 2139.72] All creation I sing, praise to the King. -[2139.72 --> 2139.80] Amen. -[2139.80 --> 2167.68] We are a moment, you are a moment, but our vision, that we go to earth. -[2167.68 --> 2183.78] We are a moment, you are eternal, love and mercy, reigning on us. -[2183.78 --> 2197.62] Glory, holy, Lord God Almighty, worthy is the Lamb of the Lamb. -[2197.62 --> 2203.62] God has raised us, and now we are glory. -[2205.62 --> 2211.62] We are the broken, you are the nearer. -[2211.62 --> 2217.62] We are true, O Lord, we are the nearer. -[2217.62 --> 2224.62] We are the broken, you are the nearer. -[2224.62 --> 2231.62] Jesus, redeemer, I need you to save. -[2231.62 --> 2238.62] You are the love song, we'll sing forever. -[2238.62 --> 2248.62] We are the broken, you are the nearer. -[2248.62 --> 2260.62] Glory, holy, Lord God Almighty, worthy is the Lamb of the Lamb. -[2260.62 --> 2270.62] We are the broken, you are the nearer. -[2270.62 --> 2281.62] We are the broken, you are the nearer. -[2281.62 --> 2294.62] Glory, holy, Lord God Almighty, worthy is the Lamb of the world's sin. -[2294.62 --> 2307.62] Highest praises, honor, and glory be unto your name. -[2307.62 --> 2315.62] Be unto your name. -[2315.62 --> 2335.62] Good morning. -[2335.62 --> 2339.62] My name is Brenda, and I am one of the deacons here at Emmanuel. -[2339.62 --> 2346.62] We continue our worship with the giving of our gifts to the budget, which covers the administration of the church and its ministries. -[2346.62 --> 2353.62] And our special offering this morning is to UBCO Campus Reformed Okanagan. -[2353.62 --> 2357.62] This is formerly called Wellspring UBCO. -[2357.62 --> 2362.62] It's the chaplaincy of the UBC Campus Okanagan. -[2362.62 --> 2367.62] Embracing students, faculty, and staff in intentional community, -[2367.62 --> 2372.62] campus chaplaincies engage their campuses, bringing the gospel in word and deed. -[2372.62 --> 2379.62] Campus chaplains are there to facilitate faith formation, worship, and gospel proclamation, -[2379.62 --> 2384.62] servant leadership, global mission, mercy, and justice. -[2384.62 --> 2389.62] Chaplains are supportive listeners who are on campus to support campus well-being -[2389.62 --> 2393.62] and encourage students, faculty, and staff on their spiritual journey. -[2393.62 --> 2400.62] Kelowna CRC supports and is in partnership with this ministry on the UBCO Campus. -[2400.62 --> 2403.62] This ministry is led by Dr. Todd Statham. -[2403.62 --> 2409.62] He loves to explore with students and faculty how all things, what we study, what we research, -[2409.62 --> 2413.62] what we imagine and hope, how they hold together in Christ. -[2413.62 --> 2419.62] He seeks to equip and encourage students, staff, and faculty to be lifelong disciples of Jesus. -[2419.62 --> 2428.62] 2 Corinthians 9, verse 6 to 8 says, -[2428.62 --> 2435.62] Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. -[2435.62 --> 2441.62] Each of you can give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, -[2441.62 --> 2443.62] for God loves a cheerful giver. -[2443.62 --> 2449.62] And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, -[2449.62 --> 2451.62] you will abound in every good work. -[2451.62 --> 2459.62] The song that we're going to sing during the offering is the song we've chosen for Advent. -[2459.62 --> 2463.62] So we'll sing it throughout the Advent season, and we thought we'd introduce it to you this morning, -[2463.62 --> 2467.62] so it's all familiar a little bit next week when Advent begins. -[2467.62 --> 2475.62] We'll sing it in on the Kashmir Atkinson to sing the beginning. -[2475.62 --> 2482.62] They have aan the остр ranges for the redemption par Naharашke Donna Haddad Kir singe en Legisl mode in January -[2482.62 --> 2485.62] the sows popular season at the Autumn party. -[2485.62 --> 2490.62] There are companions after the talking counter relaxation about Jesus their host, -[2490.62 --> 2494.62] The pockets of Jesus' home implicitly have the connection processes -[2494.62 --> 2495.62] Amen. -[2524.62 --> 2525.62] Amen. -[2554.62 --> 2556.62] Amen. -[2584.62 --> 2586.62] Amen. -[2614.62 --> 2616.62] Amen. -[2644.62 --> 2646.62] Amen. -[2674.62 --> 2676.92] Let's go to grade four to the front for a quick hello. -[2676.92 --> 2677.92] Oh my goodness. -[2677.92 --> 2681.38] I almost couldn't get up here you guys are so busy rushing the aisles. -[2683.12 --> 2684.52] It's good to see so many of you. -[2684.52 --> 2687.62] I was a little worried some people might be home sick. -[2687.62 --> 2690.62] We probably have a few sick friends from school and stuff. -[2690.62 --> 2692.62] Hey, but good to have you guys here today. -[2692.62 --> 2696.32] Do you guys remember what we've been learning about in children's worship time? -[2696.32 --> 2698.32] What Hayley? -[2698.32 --> 2701.32] Some big ideas. -[2701.32 --> 2703.32] I know it's tricky. -[2703.32 --> 2710.76] Trust. Trust. And who was the character we learned about last week? His name was Abram, right? -[2711.32 --> 2717.50] And what did he get renamed? Abraham. Yeah, he got a new name, and that means father of many, -[2717.74 --> 2725.44] right? Yeah, huge, huge thing that he had to trust God for a really, really big promise. So we're -[2725.44 --> 2731.42] going to talk about promises today in Children's Rural Time, but I won't ask you here to confess -[2731.42 --> 2736.70] any big promises you've made or ones maybe you've broken. Okay, we won't do that here. We'll have a -[2736.70 --> 2740.58] little chat and watch some videos and have an activity in Children's Worship Time. But before -[2740.58 --> 2746.92] we do that, let's bless our moms and dads and brothers and sisters as they stay here to hear -[2746.92 --> 2754.80] a bigger message, and they will bless us in return, I think. Ready, guys? The Lord be with you. -[2755.38 --> 2758.26] All right, let's go to Children's Worship Time. -[2761.42 --> 2765.96] All right. -[2791.42 --> 2807.74] Lord, we come to you in prayer this morning. Truly, my soul finds rest in God. My salvation -[2807.74 --> 2814.72] comes from him. Truly, he is my rock and my salvation. In my fortress, I will not be shaken. -[2814.72 --> 2821.14] Our merciful Father in heaven, we thank you for providing faithful and gifted pastors, elders, -[2821.34 --> 2826.56] and deacons here at Emmanuel. Continue to fill them with your wisdom and grant them strength. -[2827.40 --> 2834.08] Make them faithful workers in your vineyard. This week, our elders will be meeting on Tuesday. -[2834.56 --> 2839.90] Bless them in this meeting. Also this week, we pray for a blessing over our congregational meeting -[2839.90 --> 2847.66] on Wednesday. Lord, at this time of year, we begin to travel abroad on our roads and start to become -[2847.66 --> 2852.10] more dangerous with the cooler weather. We think of the students in the local schools who are traveling -[2852.10 --> 2857.08] for provincials. Keep those teams safe in their playing and in their driving to and from the -[2857.08 --> 2864.14] provincials. This is the time of year when the colds and flus affect many. Please comfort and heal -[2864.14 --> 2870.72] those in need of your healing power. We also think of Harry Baumann as he's undergoing surgery on Monday -[2870.72 --> 2876.24] morning to reset the previously broken bones in his left elbow. We pray that the surgeons will be -[2876.24 --> 2883.60] able to fix his arm and that his recovery goes well. We also pray for Robin as she continues to help -[2883.60 --> 2890.72] Harry in his recovery. We pray for many people in our congregation who are dealing with all sorts of -[2890.72 --> 2897.78] stress. Stress of finding work, stress of finding accommodations for housing, awaiting test results, -[2898.72 --> 2905.00] awaiting just simply awaiting. We ask for your comfort, Lord. As many of us in this congregation -[2905.00 --> 2911.20] have been dealing with lost as loved ones recently or long ago, Lord, it's always can be a difficult time. -[2912.26 --> 2917.20] Lord, we pray that you prepare us for the upcoming Advent seasons and the next weekend. -[2917.20 --> 2923.60] May you bless us and go throughout this week and be grounded and rooted in your word. -[2924.10 --> 2926.00] In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. -[2947.20 --> 2960.82] If you have been with us for the last number of weeks, we have been in a series in the book of Psalms, -[2960.98 --> 2969.50] primarily a particular few Psalms, a series that we have called Faith and All Our Feelings. And through -[2969.50 --> 2976.18] that we have looked at the mix of our emotions and feelings and the sorts of reactions and the -[2976.18 --> 2982.88] emotional realities that surround them. And we've been doing that through the lens of a number of -[2982.88 --> 2989.54] key Psalms, as well as with the aid of a book called The Cry of the Soul by Allender and Longman. -[2991.12 --> 2999.80] This morning is the final teaching in that series. Now, normally when we begin a teaching, -[2999.80 --> 3006.64] when we have a message up here, we start with a little bit of an explanation perhaps, but then we, -[3006.82 --> 3015.58] at the beginning, read a text that we then explain and apply. Today, however, we're going to do that a -[3015.58 --> 3020.54] little bit differently. And so if you have your Bibles with you and you've already turned to Psalm -[3020.54 --> 3028.44] 100 because you know that's where we're going, excellent work. Hang on to it. The text is going to -[3028.44 --> 3035.36] come at the end. Okay, so we're going to build to what the text says for us and then we will let -[3035.36 --> 3043.80] that sort of culminate our journey this morning. Now, that said, I do want to give a bit of a road -[3043.80 --> 3052.44] map for where we're going and maybe a little bit of direction for how we might get there. What I hope -[3052.44 --> 3061.12] that we will see together this morning at the end is that the end of this journey of faith and feelings, -[3061.50 --> 3071.98] the purpose of all of this together, is found in this idea that the purpose of redeemed humanity -[3071.98 --> 3090.44] is found in praise and thanksgiving to God. Or to put it another way, the way that the Westminster -[3090.44 --> 3097.14] Shorter Catechism summarizes it, the Westminster Shorter Catechism is a confessional and historical -[3097.14 --> 3103.16] statement of faith from the Presbyterian branch of the Reformed Church. And in the Shorter Catechism, -[3103.26 --> 3111.82] it begins with this question. It asks, what is the chief end of humanity? What is our purpose? What is -[3111.82 --> 3119.92] our goal? Where are we going? And how are we going to get there? Why are we here? Now, the answer that -[3119.92 --> 3130.30] that catechism gives is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. The chief end of humanity, the telos, -[3130.46 --> 3139.52] the reason for which we were created, is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. But especially if you've -[3139.52 --> 3148.26] been with us these last couple weeks, we know and have been living in the reality that there are certain -[3148.26 --> 3157.58] things or circumstances or situations that seem to rob us, that seem to remove that end from being -[3157.58 --> 3165.24] realistic or at least expressive. It seems to stop us from getting there, right? To wall us off from the -[3165.24 --> 3171.56] experience of the truth of God and applying the truth of who God is to the everyday stuff of our life, -[3171.56 --> 3181.28] sometimes the sorts of things that we feel and experience seem to be a barrier to accessing or -[3181.28 --> 3190.64] encountering God. And our work for these last number of weeks has been to, in some ways, reimagine or -[3190.64 --> 3198.46] reframe the relationship between faith and feelings that allows the depths of our feelings to be -[3198.46 --> 3205.62] impacted by the depths and the scope of God's presence and His Spirit in our midst. -[3207.70 --> 3215.26] And I don't know about you, but as we've explored some of these emotional realities together, -[3216.10 --> 3225.66] we've seen hard things, we've remembered hard things, we've felt hard things, right? We've remembered -[3225.66 --> 3235.16] and felt truly awful things. We've pierced the dark corners of our emotions and we have tried to find -[3235.16 --> 3241.98] God in the midst of our anger and our shame, in the midst of our fear and our despair, right? Our souls -[3241.98 --> 3249.32] have cried out at the seeming impossibility of it all and at the injustice of it all. And throughout -[3249.32 --> 3258.34] that entire experience and expression and reality lived together, we have tried to hold on to the truth -[3258.34 --> 3267.02] that God holds on to us. That somehow in the midst of all of that, He is present, that He is active, -[3267.02 --> 3276.62] and that He somehow is always in control. That is, that He is always sovereign. -[3278.36 --> 3287.28] And holding the sovereign power of God over history and the sovereign power of God over the hairs on my -[3287.28 --> 3292.46] head, right? So that is not just in the big things and the big movements and sweeping motions of history, -[3292.46 --> 3298.38] but in the little things and the tiny things, right? Holding that truth of who God is in one hand, -[3298.66 --> 3309.14] and then holding the reality lived, the heartbreak of everyday life, creates in our experience, -[3309.48 --> 3317.58] almost paradoxical tension. One that Pastor Kevin helped us see that maybe our job is to -[3317.58 --> 3327.04] live in the midst of more than try to solve. Where we found ourselves staring face long into this hard -[3327.04 --> 3336.98] truth. One that I want to state here, say here explicitly, but I'm realizing that when I say that, -[3337.28 --> 3343.54] it might offend some of you. And what I'm quite sure is that when I say what I'm about to say, -[3343.54 --> 3350.14] that some of you are going to think it's heresy. And some of you are going to want to get me in -[3350.14 --> 3354.82] trouble with the denominational authorities. I want to acknowledge that -[3354.82 --> 3364.52] if what I say next offends you, that might be because your view of God is more therapeutic -[3364.52 --> 3373.02] than it is transcendent. But please give me some patience and let's dig in together. Because here it is. -[3373.54 --> 3378.60] Sometimes God hurts us. -[3383.14 --> 3388.28] Sometimes God hurts us intentionally. -[3391.28 --> 3398.56] Now the old Puritans used to call this the severe mercy of God. Now before we dig in, don't hear what -[3398.56 --> 3403.38] I'm not saying. Okay? Because I know some of you are triggered right now. Right? This doesn't mean -[3403.38 --> 3409.68] that all pain comes from God. Right? The devil, for one, is real and he is active. Although I do want -[3409.68 --> 3414.10] to say that the devil's not under every stone or behind every cancer, like some people might say. -[3418.42 --> 3420.06] But when we wrestle in this moment, -[3420.06 --> 3422.30] we inevitably ask the question, -[3422.30 --> 3425.00] is the death of my child -[3425.00 --> 3426.78] a punishment from God? -[3428.22 --> 3429.18] And we'll say, no, -[3429.38 --> 3431.82] not likely. In fact, I will say with -[3431.82 --> 3434.06] conviction and confidence that if you are a Christian, -[3434.44 --> 3436.48] I can guarantee you that your suffering, -[3436.60 --> 3438.14] whatever it may be, whatever form -[3438.14 --> 3440.40] it takes, is not a punishment -[3440.40 --> 3441.56] for your sin. -[3442.70 --> 3443.68] Let me say that again. -[3443.92 --> 3446.24] Whatever suffering you face, if you are a believer, -[3446.36 --> 3447.74] is not a punishment for your sin. -[3447.74 --> 3450.02] Because we believe that Jesus on the cross -[3450.02 --> 3451.66] bore the full punishment -[3451.66 --> 3452.98] for all our sins. -[3453.64 --> 3455.76] That's what Romans 8 verse 1 means -[3455.76 --> 3457.14] when Paul says, -[3457.36 --> 3459.06] there is now no condemnation -[3459.06 --> 3460.70] for those who are in Christ Jesus. -[3460.90 --> 3462.60] Right? No condemnation means -[3462.60 --> 3464.98] no judgment, no punishment. -[3465.14 --> 3466.92] That Jesus has already borne -[3466.92 --> 3468.38] the punishment for your sins -[3468.38 --> 3469.44] if you believe. -[3472.46 --> 3473.84] And so then we start to wonder, -[3473.96 --> 3474.96] well, if it's not punishment, -[3475.90 --> 3476.94] is this the work of the devil? -[3478.08 --> 3478.48] Maybe. -[3479.44 --> 3480.54] If it's not punishment -[3480.54 --> 3481.80] and not the work of the devil, -[3482.18 --> 3483.52] is it the result of sin -[3483.52 --> 3484.38] in a broken world -[3484.38 --> 3485.88] now full of tragic accidents -[3485.88 --> 3486.86] and unfair causes? -[3487.30 --> 3487.66] Probably. -[3488.64 --> 3490.34] But that doesn't solve the question. -[3490.94 --> 3491.06] Right? -[3491.10 --> 3493.48] That doesn't answer the dilemma for us -[3493.48 --> 3494.62] because we're still left with it. -[3494.66 --> 3495.72] And it's the same question -[3495.72 --> 3496.90] that Job asked -[3496.90 --> 3498.38] in the midst of all of his struggling -[3498.38 --> 3500.10] with God and with the devil -[3500.10 --> 3501.42] and with the reality of evil -[3501.42 --> 3502.00] in the world. -[3502.36 --> 3502.46] Right? -[3502.56 --> 3503.04] Job said, -[3503.36 --> 3505.70] shall we accept good from God -[3505.70 --> 3507.04] and not trouble? -[3507.74 --> 3513.80] Sometimes God hurts us. -[3514.62 --> 3515.94] To put it another way, -[3516.78 --> 3516.90] right, -[3517.22 --> 3518.36] do we believe -[3518.36 --> 3520.28] what the Heidelberg Catechism says -[3520.28 --> 3522.18] is the proper understanding -[3522.18 --> 3524.36] of the doctrine of providence? -[3525.16 --> 3525.40] Right? -[3525.44 --> 3527.64] If sovereignty is God's big rule -[3527.64 --> 3529.24] and reign over the world -[3529.24 --> 3530.56] such that nothing happens -[3530.56 --> 3531.40] without his will, -[3531.40 --> 3534.12] providence is God's intimate action -[3534.12 --> 3535.28] in your life. -[3536.22 --> 3536.36] Right? -[3536.46 --> 3537.82] Providence is God's sovereignty -[3537.82 --> 3539.02] made real. -[3539.12 --> 3540.02] And in the Catechism, -[3540.78 --> 3541.48] it asks, -[3541.84 --> 3542.50] what do you believe -[3542.50 --> 3543.88] concerning the providence of God? -[3543.92 --> 3544.82] And the answer it gives, -[3544.86 --> 3546.22] and this is a quick summary, -[3546.90 --> 3548.22] that rain and drought, -[3548.90 --> 3550.60] fruitful and lean years, -[3550.74 --> 3551.90] health and sickness, -[3552.24 --> 3554.10] prosperity and poverty, -[3554.50 --> 3555.42] beautiful prayer, -[3555.78 --> 3555.98] Pete. -[3555.98 --> 3558.34] prosperity and poverty, -[3558.66 --> 3559.42] all things, -[3559.56 --> 3559.96] in fact, -[3560.04 --> 3560.70] come to us -[3560.70 --> 3561.90] not by chance -[3561.90 --> 3564.08] but by His -[3564.08 --> 3565.30] fatherly -[3565.30 --> 3566.32] hand. -[3568.50 --> 3568.66] Right? -[3568.70 --> 3570.18] Whatever the immediate cause -[3570.18 --> 3570.64] may be, -[3570.72 --> 3571.36] the truth is, -[3571.40 --> 3572.48] because God is sovereign, -[3572.64 --> 3573.98] and can I be bold with you again, -[3574.18 --> 3574.30] right, -[3574.44 --> 3576.00] He must be sovereign. -[3577.04 --> 3577.56] Right? -[3577.56 --> 3578.82] Because God is sovereign, -[3579.00 --> 3579.92] all suffering -[3579.92 --> 3581.34] is brought about -[3581.34 --> 3582.18] or used by -[3582.18 --> 3582.90] or permitted -[3582.90 --> 3583.90] for some -[3583.90 --> 3586.12] larger purpose. -[3586.72 --> 3587.66] Your suffering, -[3587.80 --> 3589.02] no matter how tragic, -[3589.44 --> 3591.00] does not surprise God. -[3592.04 --> 3593.52] It does not surprise God -[3593.52 --> 3594.78] and it does not spoil -[3594.78 --> 3595.54] His plan -[3595.54 --> 3596.22] for you -[3596.22 --> 3597.40] and for the world. -[3598.24 --> 3599.12] In fact, -[3599.62 --> 3600.22] what I hope -[3600.22 --> 3600.92] we might have seen -[3600.92 --> 3601.56] in this journey -[3601.56 --> 3602.28] in the Psalms -[3602.28 --> 3604.42] is that all of our suffering -[3604.42 --> 3605.84] invites us -[3605.84 --> 3606.84] to struggle -[3606.84 --> 3609.02] with God. -[3610.22 --> 3611.66] And it's in struggling -[3611.66 --> 3612.74] with God, -[3612.84 --> 3613.68] like Jacob -[3613.68 --> 3614.90] who wrestled with Him, -[3615.18 --> 3615.34] right, -[3615.40 --> 3616.12] it's in struggling -[3616.12 --> 3616.86] with God -[3616.86 --> 3618.48] that we get close enough -[3618.48 --> 3620.66] to see His face. -[3623.22 --> 3623.38] Now, -[3623.44 --> 3623.82] suffering -[3623.82 --> 3625.98] also helps us see -[3625.98 --> 3627.40] how the things -[3627.40 --> 3628.14] that we have -[3628.14 --> 3629.96] substituted for God -[3629.96 --> 3631.52] aren't God -[3631.52 --> 3631.94] and that -[3631.94 --> 3632.80] those things -[3632.80 --> 3633.86] don't and won't -[3633.86 --> 3634.98] and can't fill -[3634.98 --> 3635.82] the longing -[3635.82 --> 3637.72] and the hole -[3637.72 --> 3639.02] that only God can fill. -[3639.74 --> 3640.92] That this is that mystery -[3640.92 --> 3642.00] of the paradox -[3642.00 --> 3642.78] continued, -[3643.78 --> 3643.92] right, -[3644.00 --> 3645.20] that God uses -[3645.20 --> 3646.62] our darker emotions, -[3647.08 --> 3648.80] He uses our experiences -[3648.80 --> 3649.80] of His silence -[3649.80 --> 3650.96] and His abandonment -[3650.96 --> 3652.18] of struggle -[3652.18 --> 3653.74] to win -[3653.74 --> 3655.50] our hearts -[3655.50 --> 3657.80] for His glory. -[3661.20 --> 3662.86] Let me put it this way. -[3663.86 --> 3668.56] the only way -[3668.56 --> 3670.96] for any -[3670.96 --> 3672.76] of our suffering -[3672.76 --> 3674.22] and struggling -[3674.22 --> 3675.72] to have meaning, -[3676.38 --> 3677.30] the only way -[3677.30 --> 3678.22] for any of it -[3678.22 --> 3678.86] to have meaning -[3678.86 --> 3680.34] is if God -[3680.34 --> 3681.04] is sovereign -[3681.04 --> 3682.52] over everything. -[3683.90 --> 3685.48] Because if He's not, -[3686.04 --> 3687.60] there's always a chance -[3687.60 --> 3689.12] that what you face, -[3689.30 --> 3689.96] what you suffer, -[3690.08 --> 3690.80] what you struggle -[3690.80 --> 3692.32] is meaningless. -[3692.32 --> 3694.82] And we can never know. -[3696.60 --> 3698.02] But it's not meaningless. -[3699.38 --> 3699.48] Right? -[3699.72 --> 3700.60] God fills -[3700.60 --> 3702.46] everything you do -[3702.46 --> 3703.60] and everything -[3703.60 --> 3704.40] that happens -[3704.40 --> 3704.94] to you -[3704.94 --> 3705.48] with -[3705.48 --> 3706.60] not just -[3706.60 --> 3707.76] an immediate purpose -[3707.76 --> 3709.10] but an eternal -[3709.10 --> 3710.16] purpose. -[3712.08 --> 3712.80] Maybe it's -[3712.80 --> 3713.24] cliche -[3713.24 --> 3714.30] for some of you -[3714.30 --> 3714.72] but that doesn't -[3714.72 --> 3715.72] make it any less true. -[3716.12 --> 3717.38] Jeremiah 29, 11 -[3717.38 --> 3717.82] says, -[3718.22 --> 3719.18] I know the plans -[3719.18 --> 3720.10] I have for you, -[3720.36 --> 3721.04] declares the Lord. -[3721.04 --> 3723.30] That means that God -[3723.30 --> 3724.80] has plans for you. -[3724.90 --> 3725.94] He has a purpose -[3725.94 --> 3726.96] for you. -[3727.72 --> 3729.10] In 1 Corinthians 15, -[3729.46 --> 3730.24] Paul says, -[3730.48 --> 3731.66] your labor in the Lord -[3731.66 --> 3732.64] is not in vain. -[3733.30 --> 3733.42] Right? -[3733.44 --> 3734.62] That means what you do -[3734.62 --> 3735.80] has purpose. -[3736.26 --> 3737.14] That what you do -[3737.14 --> 3738.22] has meaning. -[3740.50 --> 3741.52] And this next one -[3741.52 --> 3742.94] is one of my favorite -[3742.94 --> 3743.92] verses in all -[3743.92 --> 3744.94] of Scripture. -[3745.24 --> 3746.08] And I'm going to -[3746.08 --> 3747.12] read it to you, -[3747.20 --> 3747.84] share it with you -[3747.84 --> 3749.28] from the ESV, -[3749.28 --> 3750.46] English Standard Version -[3750.46 --> 3751.04] translation. -[3751.84 --> 3752.18] Normally, -[3752.68 --> 3753.82] I and we here -[3753.82 --> 3755.04] read from the NIV -[3755.04 --> 3756.12] but I think that -[3756.12 --> 3757.32] the way the ESV -[3757.32 --> 3758.24] translates this -[3758.24 --> 3759.62] section really -[3759.62 --> 3760.58] just makes it sing -[3760.58 --> 3761.38] and I want to -[3761.38 --> 3761.94] share it with you -[3761.94 --> 3762.50] in that language. -[3762.62 --> 3763.50] But 2 Corinthians -[3763.50 --> 3765.96] 4, 17 and 18 -[3765.96 --> 3766.44] says, -[3766.44 --> 3790.96] This is the perspective -[3790.96 --> 3792.10] I want to take -[3792.10 --> 3793.60] on my sufferings, -[3793.68 --> 3794.64] on my afflictions, -[3794.74 --> 3795.80] on my emotions -[3795.80 --> 3797.10] that swirl around -[3797.10 --> 3797.96] my struggling. -[3798.42 --> 3799.48] And when I do, -[3799.78 --> 3801.06] then I can say -[3801.06 --> 3801.90] with Job, -[3802.08 --> 3803.46] as he says in Job 13, -[3803.86 --> 3805.22] though he slay me, -[3806.22 --> 3808.40] I will hope in him. -[3809.88 --> 3811.34] God is not surprised. -[3811.58 --> 3812.72] He's not caught off guard. -[3813.24 --> 3814.10] Nothing happens -[3814.10 --> 3814.90] without his will -[3814.90 --> 3815.66] to permit it -[3815.66 --> 3816.84] or to bring it about. -[3816.84 --> 3821.56] God is not -[3821.56 --> 3822.12] in fact, -[3822.92 --> 3825.26] this is exactly -[3825.26 --> 3826.52] why -[3826.52 --> 3828.28] when you are -[3828.28 --> 3829.60] in deep despair, -[3830.16 --> 3831.84] you can cry out -[3831.84 --> 3832.22] to God. -[3833.42 --> 3834.54] This is exactly -[3834.54 --> 3835.42] why when you are -[3835.42 --> 3837.18] raging with anger, -[3837.56 --> 3838.58] you can contend -[3838.58 --> 3839.26] with God. -[3839.82 --> 3840.58] That's exactly -[3840.58 --> 3841.32] why when you are -[3841.32 --> 3841.80] afraid, -[3842.14 --> 3842.78] you can run -[3842.78 --> 3843.20] to God -[3843.20 --> 3844.08] because he -[3844.08 --> 3845.06] and he alone -[3845.06 --> 3846.22] is the only one -[3846.22 --> 3847.08] who can actually -[3847.08 --> 3847.98] do something -[3847.98 --> 3849.18] about whatever it is -[3849.18 --> 3850.02] that you are facing -[3850.02 --> 3850.80] and feeling. -[3853.88 --> 3854.48] Look, -[3855.48 --> 3859.44] God's sovereignty -[3859.44 --> 3861.32] and his providence -[3861.32 --> 3862.60] are exactly -[3862.60 --> 3863.42] the reason -[3863.42 --> 3864.34] why you can -[3864.34 --> 3865.32] get angry -[3865.32 --> 3866.14] at him -[3866.14 --> 3867.08] when it doesn't -[3867.08 --> 3868.00] make sense -[3868.00 --> 3868.52] to you. -[3870.44 --> 3871.74] But God, -[3872.00 --> 3873.30] being God, -[3873.82 --> 3874.50] his sovereignty -[3874.50 --> 3875.56] and his providence -[3875.56 --> 3876.52] also means -[3876.52 --> 3876.54] also means -[3876.54 --> 3877.46] that he has -[3877.46 --> 3878.20] a purpose -[3878.20 --> 3879.30] beyond your -[3879.30 --> 3880.08] understanding, -[3880.26 --> 3881.38] beyond your ability -[3881.38 --> 3882.26] to see -[3882.26 --> 3883.90] in whatever it is -[3883.90 --> 3884.58] you are facing. -[3887.78 --> 3888.94] And I get it. -[3890.28 --> 3892.28] When your husband -[3892.28 --> 3892.80] leaves -[3892.80 --> 3894.20] or when your child -[3894.20 --> 3894.72] dies, -[3894.84 --> 3895.98] when you lose -[3895.98 --> 3896.52] a job, -[3896.78 --> 3898.22] I can't give you -[3898.22 --> 3899.38] the reason for that. -[3900.40 --> 3901.20] And I wish -[3901.20 --> 3901.80] that I could, -[3902.80 --> 3903.72] but it will never -[3903.72 --> 3904.20] make sense -[3904.20 --> 3904.70] to me either. -[3904.78 --> 3905.62] I can't see it -[3905.62 --> 3906.18] either. -[3906.44 --> 3907.30] All I can do -[3907.30 --> 3908.40] is cry with you -[3908.40 --> 3911.88] and I do. -[3915.08 --> 3916.02] And yet, -[3917.02 --> 3919.10] and yet, -[3919.18 --> 3919.58] no matter -[3919.58 --> 3921.94] what you face, -[3922.20 --> 3923.32] you can know -[3923.32 --> 3924.40] that it is not -[3924.40 --> 3925.20] meaningless. -[3926.30 --> 3927.34] That it is producing -[3927.34 --> 3927.90] in you -[3927.90 --> 3929.68] a peculiar glory. -[3929.68 --> 3931.84] So when your mom -[3931.84 --> 3932.16] dies, -[3932.24 --> 3933.08] don't look to -[3933.08 --> 3933.92] things that are seen. -[3934.02 --> 3934.76] Look to eternal -[3934.76 --> 3935.16] things, -[3935.40 --> 3936.16] the things of God. -[3936.26 --> 3937.20] When you get cancer, -[3937.32 --> 3938.58] it's not meaningless. -[3940.16 --> 3941.04] God is doing -[3941.04 --> 3942.36] something eternal -[3942.36 --> 3943.30] in you. -[3943.56 --> 3944.48] You can't see it. -[3944.54 --> 3945.42] Of course you can't -[3945.42 --> 3945.86] see it, -[3946.20 --> 3947.68] but you can believe -[3947.68 --> 3948.68] that he is. -[3949.40 --> 3950.48] In your desperation -[3950.48 --> 3951.60] and despair, -[3951.78 --> 3952.92] God is developing -[3952.92 --> 3954.18] and deepening -[3954.18 --> 3955.76] a peculiar glory -[3955.76 --> 3956.36] in you -[3956.36 --> 3957.76] beyond compare -[3957.76 --> 3959.26] to anything else. -[3961.16 --> 3961.64] And sure, -[3961.90 --> 3963.88] you can't see what, -[3964.88 --> 3966.02] but you can know -[3966.02 --> 3966.82] that. -[3967.72 --> 3968.60] You don't know -[3968.60 --> 3969.90] what he is doing. -[3970.06 --> 3970.72] I don't know -[3970.72 --> 3971.92] what he is doing, -[3972.02 --> 3972.56] but I know -[3972.56 --> 3973.66] that he is doing -[3973.66 --> 3974.48] something -[3974.48 --> 3975.44] and it's not -[3975.44 --> 3976.38] a meaningless thing. -[3976.46 --> 3977.42] It is an eternal -[3977.42 --> 3979.08] glory thing. -[3981.62 --> 3983.02] Allender and Longman -[3983.02 --> 3983.66] in the book -[3983.66 --> 3984.40] that we have been using, -[3984.92 --> 3985.66] they say this. -[3986.44 --> 3986.64] They say, -[3986.64 --> 3988.18] part of the mystery -[3988.18 --> 3988.88] of God -[3988.88 --> 3990.60] is his disruptive -[3990.60 --> 3991.62] intrusion -[3991.62 --> 3993.08] to provide us -[3993.08 --> 3993.70] with what we -[3993.70 --> 3995.58] desperately desire, -[3995.92 --> 3997.08] not what we think -[3997.08 --> 3998.04] we require. -[3999.38 --> 4000.08] He does so -[4000.08 --> 4000.72] by use -[4000.72 --> 4002.60] of a paradox. -[4003.84 --> 4004.92] And you need to see this, -[4004.98 --> 4005.30] which is why -[4005.30 --> 4005.90] it's on the screen. -[4006.66 --> 4007.58] He draws us -[4007.58 --> 4008.24] to darkness -[4008.24 --> 4009.26] and in the midst -[4009.26 --> 4010.04] of what appears -[4010.04 --> 4010.68] awful, -[4011.26 --> 4012.18] he shows us -[4012.18 --> 4013.16] something of his -[4013.16 --> 4013.74] awe, -[4014.10 --> 4014.74] full, -[4014.74 --> 4015.94] bright -[4015.94 --> 4017.18] goodness. -[4019.98 --> 4020.98] You might not -[4020.98 --> 4022.62] know it -[4022.62 --> 4023.78] sitting here -[4023.78 --> 4024.44] in the depths -[4024.44 --> 4025.56] of heartache -[4025.56 --> 4026.64] and pain, -[4026.80 --> 4026.94] but -[4026.94 --> 4029.36] what you desperately -[4029.36 --> 4030.24] desire -[4030.24 --> 4031.88] is God. -[4032.72 --> 4033.74] You were made -[4033.74 --> 4035.18] to glorify -[4035.18 --> 4035.98] him -[4035.98 --> 4036.60] and to find -[4036.60 --> 4037.34] absolute -[4037.34 --> 4038.18] and utter -[4038.18 --> 4039.20] eternal -[4039.20 --> 4039.96] joy -[4039.96 --> 4041.08] in him. -[4041.08 --> 4042.06] you were made -[4042.06 --> 4042.70] for his -[4042.70 --> 4043.26] praise -[4043.26 --> 4044.44] and thanksgiving -[4044.44 --> 4046.00] and everything, -[4046.44 --> 4047.04] absolutely -[4047.04 --> 4048.66] everything you do -[4048.66 --> 4049.70] drives you -[4049.70 --> 4050.72] towards him -[4050.72 --> 4052.48] or away -[4052.48 --> 4052.94] from him. -[4054.02 --> 4054.78] Your life -[4054.78 --> 4055.46] is either -[4055.46 --> 4056.60] working out -[4056.60 --> 4058.30] towards a glorifying -[4058.30 --> 4059.16] of God -[4059.16 --> 4059.82] and enjoying -[4059.82 --> 4060.52] him forever -[4060.52 --> 4062.06] or your heart -[4062.06 --> 4063.98] is pursuing -[4063.98 --> 4064.76] God -[4064.76 --> 4065.90] or it's -[4065.90 --> 4066.54] pursuing -[4066.54 --> 4068.38] lesser glories -[4068.38 --> 4070.04] or other -[4070.04 --> 4070.84] substitutes. -[4071.96 --> 4072.88] There is no -[4072.88 --> 4073.78] middle ground -[4073.78 --> 4074.74] in this. -[4074.84 --> 4075.26] There is no -[4075.26 --> 4076.08] neutral option. -[4076.24 --> 4076.76] There is no -[4076.76 --> 4077.80] third way. -[4077.88 --> 4078.32] We get really -[4078.32 --> 4078.82] good at trying -[4078.82 --> 4079.28] to find -[4079.28 --> 4079.86] and navigate -[4079.86 --> 4080.60] a third way -[4080.60 --> 4081.08] through this, -[4081.16 --> 4081.58] but there really -[4081.58 --> 4082.64] is only two. -[4083.04 --> 4083.82] Either you are -[4083.82 --> 4084.70] living and -[4084.70 --> 4085.56] working and -[4085.56 --> 4087.22] breathing towards -[4087.22 --> 4088.18] God and with -[4088.18 --> 4089.12] God or -[4089.12 --> 4090.54] away from him -[4090.54 --> 4091.16] and for -[4091.16 --> 4092.30] something or -[4092.30 --> 4093.56] someone else. -[4095.22 --> 4095.76] And so take -[4095.76 --> 4096.80] this truth back -[4096.80 --> 4097.64] to our feelings. -[4098.38 --> 4098.82] emotions. -[4099.34 --> 4099.48] Right? -[4099.82 --> 4100.84] The emotions -[4100.84 --> 4101.36] that we've -[4101.36 --> 4102.14] looked at in -[4102.14 --> 4102.66] this series. -[4103.36 --> 4104.00] That means -[4104.00 --> 4104.78] that your -[4104.78 --> 4105.92] anger will -[4105.92 --> 4106.62] drive you -[4106.62 --> 4107.58] towards God -[4107.58 --> 4109.30] or away. -[4109.98 --> 4110.94] Your fear -[4110.94 --> 4111.62] will pull you -[4111.62 --> 4112.22] into closer -[4112.22 --> 4112.82] relationship -[4112.82 --> 4113.68] with God -[4113.68 --> 4115.24] or you will -[4115.24 --> 4115.58] push him -[4115.58 --> 4115.84] away. -[4116.96 --> 4117.70] And it's the -[4117.70 --> 4118.10] same thing -[4118.10 --> 4118.42] with our -[4118.42 --> 4118.92] anxiety, -[4119.24 --> 4119.50] with our -[4119.50 --> 4119.88] shame, -[4120.02 --> 4120.74] with despair, -[4120.92 --> 4121.48] with whatever -[4121.48 --> 4122.04] it is that -[4122.04 --> 4122.66] we are -[4122.66 --> 4123.32] experiencing. -[4123.32 --> 4124.04] Right? -[4126.04 --> 4127.26] God doesn't -[4127.26 --> 4128.38] just use -[4128.38 --> 4129.38] our anxiety -[4129.38 --> 4129.98] or our -[4129.98 --> 4130.54] fear or -[4130.54 --> 4131.34] our desperation. -[4132.10 --> 4133.22] God reveals -[4133.22 --> 4134.84] himself through -[4134.84 --> 4135.14] them. -[4136.44 --> 4136.54] Right? -[4136.62 --> 4137.98] God meets us -[4137.98 --> 4139.38] with loneliness. -[4139.70 --> 4140.24] Wrap your mind -[4140.24 --> 4140.98] around that for a -[4140.98 --> 4141.06] minute. -[4141.16 --> 4141.26] Right? -[4141.52 --> 4142.76] It's not just -[4142.76 --> 4143.98] in our loneliness. -[4144.36 --> 4145.26] He meets us -[4145.26 --> 4147.16] with our -[4147.16 --> 4147.56] loneliness. -[4148.20 --> 4148.86] He meets you -[4148.86 --> 4150.06] with silence. -[4150.18 --> 4150.78] He reveals -[4150.78 --> 4151.80] himself through -[4151.80 --> 4152.62] struggle. -[4152.62 --> 4153.28] in our -[4153.28 --> 4153.76] suffering. -[4154.10 --> 4154.98] He reveals -[4154.98 --> 4156.14] his goodness. -[4156.42 --> 4157.46] His absolute, -[4157.96 --> 4158.28] utter, -[4158.92 --> 4160.28] eternal goodness. -[4160.82 --> 4161.54] The darkness -[4161.54 --> 4162.44] of the valley -[4162.44 --> 4163.14] of the shadow -[4163.14 --> 4163.90] of death -[4163.90 --> 4164.80] makes the -[4164.80 --> 4165.36] intensity -[4165.36 --> 4166.60] of his glory -[4166.60 --> 4167.56] and of his -[4167.56 --> 4168.54] love shine -[4168.54 --> 4169.98] with even -[4169.98 --> 4170.86] greater -[4170.86 --> 4171.74] lumosity, -[4172.10 --> 4172.82] even greater -[4172.82 --> 4173.50] brightness. -[4173.76 --> 4174.46] The reality -[4174.46 --> 4175.24] of who God -[4175.24 --> 4176.06] is shines -[4176.06 --> 4177.10] brightest -[4177.10 --> 4178.44] against the -[4178.44 --> 4178.82] darkness -[4178.82 --> 4180.48] that we feel -[4180.48 --> 4181.74] and live in. -[4181.74 --> 4184.94] there is no -[4184.94 --> 4185.60] resurrection -[4185.60 --> 4186.76] without -[4186.76 --> 4187.60] crucifixion. -[4188.88 --> 4189.66] There is no -[4189.66 --> 4190.16] glory -[4190.16 --> 4192.10] without suffering. -[4194.38 --> 4194.60] And so, -[4194.98 --> 4195.26] again, -[4195.46 --> 4196.10] frame that. -[4196.22 --> 4196.80] Think about -[4196.80 --> 4197.32] where we've -[4197.32 --> 4198.04] been in this -[4198.04 --> 4198.34] series. -[4198.48 --> 4198.66] And I'm -[4198.66 --> 4198.88] going to do -[4198.88 --> 4199.58] a super -[4199.58 --> 4200.62] quick recap -[4200.62 --> 4201.00] here. -[4201.46 --> 4202.12] Looking at -[4202.12 --> 4202.56] the Psalms -[4202.56 --> 4202.90] that we've -[4202.90 --> 4203.30] looked at. -[4204.02 --> 4204.38] We'll see -[4204.38 --> 4204.74] them on the -[4204.74 --> 4204.96] screen. -[4205.58 --> 4206.18] Out of the -[4206.18 --> 4207.04] depths I cry -[4207.04 --> 4207.46] to you, -[4207.58 --> 4207.78] Lord. -[4208.04 --> 4208.56] Lord, -[4208.74 --> 4209.70] hear my -[4209.70 --> 4210.18] voice. -[4210.18 --> 4211.84] Will you -[4211.84 --> 4212.46] reject me -[4212.46 --> 4212.90] forever? -[4213.30 --> 4213.62] Will he -[4213.62 --> 4214.30] never show -[4214.30 --> 4214.88] his favor -[4214.88 --> 4215.28] again? -[4215.96 --> 4216.62] How long -[4216.62 --> 4217.00] must I -[4217.00 --> 4217.52] wrestle with -[4217.52 --> 4218.12] my thoughts -[4218.12 --> 4218.56] and day -[4218.56 --> 4219.12] after day -[4219.12 --> 4219.76] have sorrow -[4219.76 --> 4220.44] in my -[4220.44 --> 4220.78] heart? -[4221.26 --> 4221.78] When you -[4221.78 --> 4222.30] hid your -[4222.30 --> 4222.78] face, -[4222.90 --> 4223.34] I was -[4223.34 --> 4224.18] dismayed. -[4224.38 --> 4224.76] I have -[4224.76 --> 4225.40] borne your -[4225.40 --> 4225.86] terrors -[4225.86 --> 4226.44] and in -[4226.44 --> 4228.30] despair. -[4228.98 --> 4229.32] Darkness -[4229.32 --> 4230.26] is my -[4230.26 --> 4231.44] closest friend. -[4231.56 --> 4232.02] I live -[4232.02 --> 4232.70] in disgrace -[4232.70 --> 4233.34] all day -[4233.34 --> 4233.82] long and -[4233.82 --> 4234.40] my face -[4234.40 --> 4235.26] is covered -[4235.26 --> 4236.20] with shame. -[4237.14 --> 4237.70] All of -[4237.70 --> 4238.12] these are -[4238.12 --> 4238.62] the true -[4238.62 --> 4239.30] voice of -[4239.30 --> 4239.50] our -[4239.50 --> 4239.96] feelings -[4239.96 --> 4240.30] and the -[4240.30 --> 4240.62] cries -[4240.62 --> 4241.00] of our -[4241.00 --> 4241.28] faith. -[4241.66 --> 4241.80] And in -[4241.80 --> 4242.14] the midst -[4242.14 --> 4242.52] of the -[4242.52 --> 4242.94] Psalter, -[4243.68 --> 4243.98] in the -[4243.98 --> 4244.38] midst of -[4244.38 --> 4245.18] God's -[4245.18 --> 4245.80] book of -[4245.80 --> 4246.00] his -[4246.00 --> 4246.64] revelation -[4246.64 --> 4247.28] to himself, -[4247.64 --> 4248.22] God gives -[4248.22 --> 4248.68] us a -[4248.68 --> 4249.32] divinely -[4249.32 --> 4250.22] authored -[4250.22 --> 4250.92] expression -[4250.92 --> 4251.64] of whatever -[4251.64 --> 4252.22] emotion -[4252.22 --> 4253.08] you find -[4253.08 --> 4253.82] yourself in -[4253.82 --> 4254.30] and an -[4254.30 --> 4254.90] experience -[4254.90 --> 4255.90] of whatever -[4255.90 --> 4257.00] emotion -[4257.00 --> 4257.72] that may -[4257.72 --> 4258.78] be is -[4258.78 --> 4259.60] used by -[4259.60 --> 4260.24] God as -[4260.24 --> 4261.16] a revelation -[4261.16 --> 4262.78] of himself. -[4262.96 --> 4263.46] He uses -[4263.46 --> 4264.36] these to -[4264.36 --> 4265.36] reveal the -[4265.36 --> 4266.00] truth of -[4266.00 --> 4266.46] who he -[4266.46 --> 4267.02] is and -[4267.02 --> 4267.96] the truth -[4267.96 --> 4268.60] that is -[4268.60 --> 4269.32] revealed to -[4269.32 --> 4269.82] us is -[4269.82 --> 4270.40] the truth -[4270.40 --> 4270.86] of -[4270.86 --> 4271.34] scripture -[4271.34 --> 4271.84] and it -[4271.84 --> 4272.14] becomes -[4272.14 --> 4273.04] real in -[4273.04 --> 4273.18] our -[4273.18 --> 4274.08] experience -[4274.08 --> 4274.84] together. -[4275.96 --> 4276.16] God -[4276.16 --> 4276.86] comes to -[4276.86 --> 4277.38] you -[4277.38 --> 4279.84] when you -[4279.84 --> 4280.22] can't -[4280.22 --> 4280.86] handle it -[4280.86 --> 4282.26] but he -[4282.26 --> 4282.56] can. -[4284.14 --> 4284.74] He wants -[4284.74 --> 4285.22] you to -[4285.22 --> 4286.04] turn to -[4286.04 --> 4286.50] him and -[4286.50 --> 4286.86] in fact -[4286.86 --> 4287.92] turning to -[4287.92 --> 4289.04] him is -[4289.04 --> 4289.58] what you -[4289.58 --> 4290.58] are desperate -[4290.58 --> 4291.02] for. -[4291.12 --> 4291.36] It's what -[4291.36 --> 4291.62] you are -[4291.62 --> 4292.52] created for -[4292.52 --> 4293.16] and so -[4293.16 --> 4293.74] maybe you -[4293.74 --> 4294.06] are in -[4294.06 --> 4294.58] the depths -[4294.58 --> 4295.44] right now, -[4295.52 --> 4295.98] the pit of -[4295.98 --> 4296.32] despair, -[4296.32 --> 4297.04] the blackness -[4297.04 --> 4297.62] of the grave, -[4297.72 --> 4298.26] the chaos -[4298.26 --> 4298.78] of Sheol. -[4299.04 --> 4299.46] Maybe you -[4299.46 --> 4300.24] feel abandoned -[4300.24 --> 4301.20] or alone, -[4301.32 --> 4301.60] maybe you -[4301.60 --> 4302.06] feel covered -[4302.06 --> 4302.66] in shame -[4302.66 --> 4303.30] or wrapped -[4303.30 --> 4303.78] in fear, -[4303.90 --> 4304.58] maybe you -[4304.58 --> 4305.40] are seething -[4305.40 --> 4306.12] and overcome -[4306.12 --> 4307.18] by anger -[4307.18 --> 4308.22] and if that's -[4308.22 --> 4308.52] you, -[4309.46 --> 4309.80] welcome. -[4311.84 --> 4312.78] Welcome to -[4312.78 --> 4313.28] the family -[4313.28 --> 4313.72] of God, -[4313.84 --> 4314.58] welcome to -[4314.58 --> 4314.96] the church -[4314.96 --> 4315.20] of his -[4315.20 --> 4315.54] people. -[4315.88 --> 4316.20] You are -[4316.20 --> 4316.62] in good -[4316.62 --> 4317.12] company -[4317.12 --> 4318.32] because that's -[4318.32 --> 4318.68] me. -[4320.20 --> 4320.90] On my best -[4320.90 --> 4321.48] days, -[4321.78 --> 4322.28] it doesn't -[4322.28 --> 4322.82] look like -[4322.82 --> 4323.10] that, -[4324.10 --> 4325.58] but it -[4325.58 --> 4326.00] is. -[4327.04 --> 4327.66] You are -[4327.66 --> 4328.48] welcome -[4328.48 --> 4329.18] here. -[4329.30 --> 4329.68] You are -[4329.68 --> 4330.08] in the -[4330.08 --> 4330.56] company of -[4330.56 --> 4331.04] others who -[4331.04 --> 4331.86] feel and -[4331.86 --> 4332.68] experience the -[4332.68 --> 4333.12] same thing -[4333.12 --> 4333.60] and the -[4333.60 --> 4334.08] truth is -[4334.08 --> 4334.86] knowing that -[4334.86 --> 4335.50] we don't -[4335.50 --> 4335.88] have to -[4335.88 --> 4336.64] wear masks, -[4337.02 --> 4337.44] knowing that -[4337.44 --> 4337.72] we don't -[4337.72 --> 4338.02] have to -[4338.02 --> 4338.42] pretend, -[4338.72 --> 4339.00] we don't -[4339.00 --> 4339.24] have to -[4339.24 --> 4339.64] look like -[4339.64 --> 4339.90] we have -[4339.90 --> 4340.12] it all -[4340.12 --> 4340.76] put together. -[4342.98 --> 4343.68] But this -[4343.68 --> 4344.12] morning, -[4344.50 --> 4346.44] this morning -[4346.44 --> 4346.96] hear the -[4346.96 --> 4347.54] good news -[4347.54 --> 4350.50] is that -[4350.50 --> 4352.46] that truth -[4352.46 --> 4353.04] of being -[4353.04 --> 4354.24] welcomed into -[4354.24 --> 4354.78] the presence -[4354.78 --> 4355.46] of God -[4355.46 --> 4356.20] in the -[4356.20 --> 4356.58] midst of -[4356.58 --> 4357.28] our despair, -[4357.64 --> 4357.92] that the -[4357.92 --> 4358.40] truth of -[4358.40 --> 4359.00] being welcomed -[4359.00 --> 4359.50] into the -[4359.50 --> 4359.96] presence of -[4359.96 --> 4360.54] God through -[4360.54 --> 4361.58] our shame, -[4361.72 --> 4362.42] that God -[4362.42 --> 4363.36] reveals himself -[4363.36 --> 4364.60] to us in -[4364.60 --> 4365.72] our suffering, -[4366.10 --> 4366.64] that truth -[4366.64 --> 4367.94] is not the -[4367.94 --> 4369.02] end of the -[4369.02 --> 4369.46] story. -[4369.78 --> 4370.46] Your desperation -[4370.46 --> 4371.48] is not the -[4371.48 --> 4372.14] end and so -[4372.14 --> 4373.14] please don't -[4373.14 --> 4373.84] let it be an -[4373.84 --> 4374.06] end. -[4374.18 --> 4374.70] Your loneliness -[4374.70 --> 4375.48] is not the -[4375.48 --> 4375.68] end. -[4375.94 --> 4376.90] There is more -[4376.90 --> 4377.76] for you -[4377.76 --> 4378.78] and for us. -[4379.42 --> 4380.10] I don't know -[4380.10 --> 4381.32] exactly what -[4381.32 --> 4381.70] it's going to -[4381.70 --> 4382.28] take to get -[4382.28 --> 4382.64] there, -[4383.36 --> 4384.04] but I do -[4384.04 --> 4384.36] know where -[4384.36 --> 4384.96] there is. -[4390.24 --> 4391.06] Shout for -[4391.06 --> 4391.86] joy to -[4391.86 --> 4392.44] the Lord -[4392.44 --> 4393.96] all the -[4393.96 --> 4394.32] earth. -[4395.38 --> 4395.70] Worship -[4395.70 --> 4396.50] the Lord -[4396.50 --> 4397.82] with gladness. -[4398.00 --> 4398.86] Come before -[4398.86 --> 4399.92] him with -[4399.92 --> 4401.74] joyful songs. -[4402.64 --> 4403.44] The end -[4403.44 --> 4404.24] of history -[4404.24 --> 4406.06] is that -[4406.06 --> 4407.12] reality. -[4409.08 --> 4409.96] The end -[4409.96 --> 4410.64] of history -[4410.64 --> 4411.68] is all -[4411.68 --> 4412.48] creation -[4412.48 --> 4414.08] shouting for -[4414.08 --> 4414.98] joy to -[4414.98 --> 4415.34] the Lord. -[4415.44 --> 4415.86] All of -[4415.86 --> 4416.74] this chaos, -[4416.96 --> 4417.44] the wars, -[4417.60 --> 4418.00] the death, -[4418.18 --> 4418.62] the famine, -[4418.74 --> 4419.26] the dying, -[4419.62 --> 4420.22] all of this -[4420.22 --> 4420.94] heartbreak, -[4421.34 --> 4422.70] the births and -[4422.70 --> 4423.34] the celebrations -[4423.34 --> 4424.28] and the triumphs -[4424.28 --> 4425.08] and the rejoicing, -[4425.34 --> 4426.46] all of this, -[4426.90 --> 4428.16] gathering up -[4428.16 --> 4429.00] everything that -[4429.00 --> 4429.80] is, all of -[4429.80 --> 4431.18] it culminates -[4431.18 --> 4432.18] in everything -[4432.18 --> 4432.74] that has -[4432.74 --> 4433.14] breath, -[4433.14 --> 4434.86] praising God. -[4436.36 --> 4437.10] Know that -[4437.10 --> 4437.64] the Lord -[4437.64 --> 4439.00] is God. -[4439.00 --> 4439.64] It is -[4439.64 --> 4440.28] he who -[4440.28 --> 4441.02] made us -[4441.02 --> 4441.64] and we -[4441.64 --> 4443.18] are his. -[4443.38 --> 4444.32] We are -[4444.32 --> 4445.34] his people, -[4445.54 --> 4446.10] the sheep -[4446.10 --> 4447.52] of his pasture. -[4448.70 --> 4449.52] Know that -[4449.52 --> 4450.06] the Lord -[4450.06 --> 4450.94] is God. -[4451.06 --> 4451.42] Accept -[4451.42 --> 4452.56] no substitute. -[4452.88 --> 4453.08] Settle -[4453.08 --> 4453.54] for no -[4453.54 --> 4454.60] lesser glories. -[4454.78 --> 4455.20] Know that -[4455.20 --> 4455.64] the Lord -[4455.64 --> 4456.56] is God. -[4456.64 --> 4456.86] It is -[4456.86 --> 4457.44] he who -[4457.44 --> 4458.12] made us -[4458.12 --> 4458.60] and we -[4458.60 --> 4459.08] are his. -[4459.26 --> 4459.88] We are -[4459.88 --> 4460.48] his people, -[4460.58 --> 4461.00] the sheep -[4461.00 --> 4462.06] of his pasture. -[4462.90 --> 4463.60] All the earth -[4463.60 --> 4464.04] is called -[4464.04 --> 4464.76] to worship him -[4464.76 --> 4465.56] and that's true. -[4465.82 --> 4466.32] All the earth -[4466.32 --> 4466.94] one day -[4466.94 --> 4467.98] will worship him. -[4468.06 --> 4468.58] Every knee -[4468.58 --> 4469.02] will bow -[4469.02 --> 4469.66] and every tongue -[4469.66 --> 4470.32] confess that -[4470.32 --> 4471.04] Jesus Christ -[4471.04 --> 4471.88] is Lord -[4471.88 --> 4472.58] to the glory -[4472.58 --> 4473.48] of God the Father. -[4473.92 --> 4474.36] One day, -[4474.46 --> 4474.84] whether you -[4474.84 --> 4475.56] believe this -[4475.56 --> 4476.12] in life -[4476.12 --> 4477.42] now or not, -[4477.68 --> 4478.34] you will -[4478.34 --> 4479.08] bow down -[4479.08 --> 4479.72] in worship. -[4480.14 --> 4480.64] The question -[4480.64 --> 4481.12] is, -[4481.34 --> 4482.14] will your worship -[4482.14 --> 4483.30] be a consequence -[4483.30 --> 4484.14] of judgment -[4484.14 --> 4485.08] or will your -[4485.08 --> 4485.88] worship be -[4485.88 --> 4486.60] the reality -[4486.60 --> 4487.78] of a redeemed -[4487.78 --> 4488.36] life -[4488.36 --> 4489.22] that knows -[4489.22 --> 4489.70] Jesus? -[4491.00 --> 4492.66] To be the -[4492.66 --> 4493.58] people of God, -[4493.74 --> 4495.04] to be a sheep -[4495.04 --> 4496.42] of his pasture -[4496.42 --> 4497.24] is to be -[4497.24 --> 4498.82] his chosen people, -[4498.94 --> 4500.16] his royal priesthood, -[4500.22 --> 4501.70] his special possession. -[4502.04 --> 4502.86] It is to be -[4502.86 --> 4503.42] the people -[4503.42 --> 4504.26] of whom God -[4504.26 --> 4504.60] says, -[4504.78 --> 4506.06] I am your God, -[4506.36 --> 4507.80] you are my people. -[4507.90 --> 4508.44] It is to be -[4508.44 --> 4509.62] the lavishly loved -[4509.62 --> 4510.96] son or daughter -[4510.96 --> 4512.08] of the Father -[4512.08 --> 4513.18] who calls us -[4513.18 --> 4513.86] by name. -[4513.96 --> 4514.50] It is to be -[4514.50 --> 4515.14] the child -[4515.14 --> 4515.84] to whom -[4515.84 --> 4516.36] the Father -[4516.36 --> 4517.06] runs. -[4517.20 --> 4518.00] It is to know -[4518.00 --> 4519.48] in this life -[4519.48 --> 4520.38] here and now, -[4520.38 --> 4521.42] already now, -[4521.52 --> 4522.24] that Jesus -[4522.24 --> 4523.16] lived the life -[4523.16 --> 4523.96] I should have lived -[4523.96 --> 4525.08] and died the death -[4525.08 --> 4526.34] that I deserved -[4526.34 --> 4527.42] and that in living -[4527.42 --> 4528.30] perfectly, -[4528.56 --> 4529.46] he grants you -[4529.46 --> 4530.80] his righteousness -[4530.80 --> 4532.00] and in dying -[4532.00 --> 4532.56] the death -[4532.56 --> 4533.68] that you deserve, -[4533.78 --> 4534.46] that I deserve, -[4534.84 --> 4536.36] we hand on to -[4536.36 --> 4537.64] him our sin -[4537.64 --> 4538.54] that he who knew -[4538.54 --> 4539.08] no sin -[4539.08 --> 4539.90] became sin -[4539.90 --> 4540.42] for us -[4540.42 --> 4540.94] that we -[4540.94 --> 4541.66] might become -[4541.66 --> 4542.36] the righteousness -[4542.36 --> 4543.76] of God. -[4544.38 --> 4545.56] This same -[4545.56 --> 4546.20] Jesus, -[4546.52 --> 4547.56] though he suffered -[4547.56 --> 4548.50] and died, -[4548.64 --> 4549.60] rose victorious -[4549.60 --> 4550.82] over sin -[4550.82 --> 4551.72] and death. -[4551.84 --> 4552.56] There is no -[4552.56 --> 4553.24] resurrection -[4553.24 --> 4555.20] without crucifixion, -[4556.20 --> 4558.00] but there is -[4558.00 --> 4558.60] resurrection. -[4560.04 --> 4560.76] Amen? -[4560.76 --> 4560.92] Amen? -[4562.20 --> 4563.26] So whatever -[4563.26 --> 4564.20] you're facing, -[4564.90 --> 4565.78] it isn't the end -[4565.78 --> 4566.38] of the story. -[4567.22 --> 4568.24] Resurrection is. -[4569.84 --> 4570.50] And so enter -[4570.50 --> 4571.30] his gates -[4571.30 --> 4572.40] with thanksgiving -[4572.40 --> 4573.40] and his courts -[4573.40 --> 4574.08] with praise. -[4574.08 --> 4575.62] Give thanks to him -[4575.62 --> 4577.72] and praise his name. -[4577.84 --> 4579.46] The goal of redeemed -[4579.46 --> 4580.44] humanity -[4580.44 --> 4581.42] is praise -[4581.42 --> 4582.40] and thanksgiving. -[4582.58 --> 4583.44] The purpose -[4583.44 --> 4584.88] of your life -[4584.88 --> 4586.00] in Jesus Christ -[4586.00 --> 4587.36] is to glorify God -[4587.36 --> 4588.72] and enjoy him forever. -[4589.06 --> 4589.92] And it might -[4589.92 --> 4591.50] take a severe -[4591.50 --> 4592.12] mercy -[4592.12 --> 4592.98] to see -[4592.98 --> 4594.22] that truth. -[4596.00 --> 4597.26] But a severe -[4597.26 --> 4598.06] mercy now -[4598.06 --> 4598.72] is better -[4598.72 --> 4599.82] than an eternal -[4599.82 --> 4600.28] judgment -[4600.28 --> 4601.04] then. -[4602.24 --> 4602.98] The affliction -[4602.98 --> 4604.00] you experience -[4604.00 --> 4604.50] now -[4604.50 --> 4605.64] is producing -[4605.64 --> 4606.46] in you -[4606.46 --> 4607.34] an eternal -[4607.34 --> 4608.12] weight -[4608.12 --> 4609.02] of glory -[4609.02 --> 4610.02] that far -[4610.02 --> 4610.78] outweighs -[4610.78 --> 4612.04] whatever struggle -[4612.04 --> 4613.18] we are in -[4613.18 --> 4613.76] now. -[4613.88 --> 4614.34] And so -[4614.34 --> 4616.22] fix your eyes -[4616.22 --> 4617.14] not on things -[4617.14 --> 4618.06] that are seen, -[4618.44 --> 4619.08] on things that -[4619.08 --> 4619.94] make sense -[4619.94 --> 4621.28] to your brain, -[4621.42 --> 4622.32] but fix them -[4622.32 --> 4622.88] on things -[4622.88 --> 4623.80] that are unseen. -[4624.36 --> 4625.40] Trust in the one -[4625.40 --> 4626.68] who guides -[4626.68 --> 4627.40] and holds -[4627.40 --> 4628.28] all creation -[4628.28 --> 4628.70] together. -[4628.92 --> 4630.36] Fix your eyes -[4630.36 --> 4631.14] on the Lord -[4631.14 --> 4632.12] Jesus Christ, -[4632.26 --> 4632.74] the author -[4632.74 --> 4633.82] and perfecter -[4633.82 --> 4634.56] of our faith. -[4634.70 --> 4635.56] Fix your eyes -[4635.56 --> 4636.20] on God -[4636.20 --> 4637.20] and know -[4637.20 --> 4638.42] that the Lord -[4638.42 --> 4640.36] is good. -[4641.36 --> 4642.42] His love -[4642.42 --> 4643.76] endures -[4643.76 --> 4644.86] forever. -[4645.82 --> 4647.04] His faithfulness -[4647.04 --> 4647.88] continues -[4647.88 --> 4648.88] through all -[4648.88 --> 4649.44] generations. -[4651.06 --> 4651.90] And that's why -[4651.90 --> 4652.90] on Sundays -[4652.90 --> 4653.60] when we gather -[4653.60 --> 4654.12] to worship -[4654.12 --> 4655.26] we can sing -[4655.26 --> 4655.84] as we're going to do -[4655.84 --> 4656.24] in a moment -[4656.24 --> 4657.44] how great that art. -[4657.44 --> 4660.24] because maybe -[4660.24 --> 4661.46] you can't -[4661.46 --> 4662.98] feel that -[4662.98 --> 4663.44] true -[4663.44 --> 4664.34] right now -[4664.34 --> 4666.08] but you sing it -[4666.08 --> 4667.22] as a statement -[4667.22 --> 4667.74] of faith -[4667.74 --> 4669.06] longing for it -[4669.06 --> 4669.70] to be true. -[4670.08 --> 4671.24] As an aspiration -[4671.24 --> 4672.94] for a reality -[4672.94 --> 4674.06] of an experience -[4674.06 --> 4674.56] of God -[4674.56 --> 4675.24] and maybe -[4675.24 --> 4676.22] you are in the place -[4676.22 --> 4676.96] where that is -[4676.96 --> 4678.40] completely and utterly -[4678.40 --> 4679.14] true for you -[4679.14 --> 4679.60] right now -[4679.60 --> 4680.94] and so you sing -[4680.94 --> 4682.16] with a boldness -[4682.16 --> 4683.76] and a volume -[4683.76 --> 4685.02] that gathers up -[4685.02 --> 4685.58] those of us -[4685.58 --> 4686.06] who can't. -[4686.06 --> 4688.20] the Lord -[4688.20 --> 4689.86] is good. -[4690.30 --> 4691.06] His love -[4691.06 --> 4692.22] endures forever. -[4692.40 --> 4693.32] His faithfulness -[4693.32 --> 4693.90] continues -[4693.90 --> 4694.44] through all -[4694.44 --> 4695.00] generations -[4695.00 --> 4697.28] and so we sing -[4697.28 --> 4698.82] how great -[4698.82 --> 4701.00] thou art. -[4701.78 --> 4702.08] Amen. -[4703.08 --> 4704.10] Let's pray together. -[4712.10 --> 4712.90] Holy, -[4713.40 --> 4714.54] holy God. -[4716.06 --> 4717.02] we stand -[4717.02 --> 4718.32] in your presence -[4718.32 --> 4719.40] amazed -[4719.40 --> 4721.04] at who you are -[4721.04 --> 4722.14] and at what you -[4722.14 --> 4722.74] have done. -[4723.48 --> 4724.12] Help us -[4724.12 --> 4725.06] to trust -[4725.06 --> 4726.20] in things -[4726.20 --> 4726.98] that are not -[4726.98 --> 4727.76] seen. -[4727.90 --> 4728.32] Help us -[4728.32 --> 4729.06] to trust -[4729.06 --> 4730.28] in your -[4730.28 --> 4731.72] faithfulness -[4731.72 --> 4732.66] that continues -[4732.66 --> 4733.92] through all -[4733.92 --> 4734.58] generations. -[4735.12 --> 4735.62] May we -[4735.62 --> 4736.98] be a generation -[4736.98 --> 4738.40] of faith. -[4739.40 --> 4739.90] May we -[4739.90 --> 4740.42] here -[4740.42 --> 4741.20] and now -[4741.20 --> 4742.12] know -[4742.12 --> 4743.40] that you -[4743.40 --> 4744.18] are -[4744.18 --> 4744.90] God. -[4745.86 --> 4746.38] That you -[4746.38 --> 4746.94] have made -[4746.94 --> 4747.30] us -[4747.30 --> 4747.98] that we -[4747.98 --> 4748.92] belong -[4748.92 --> 4749.88] to you. -[4750.72 --> 4751.44] That we -[4751.44 --> 4751.82] are your -[4751.82 --> 4752.26] people. -[4753.22 --> 4753.80] The sheep -[4753.80 --> 4754.48] of your -[4754.48 --> 4754.90] pasture. -[4756.76 --> 4757.24] And that because -[4757.24 --> 4757.58] of your -[4757.58 --> 4758.34] great love -[4758.34 --> 4759.06] for us -[4759.06 --> 4759.76] by grace -[4759.76 --> 4760.40] through faith -[4760.40 --> 4761.08] you will -[4761.08 --> 4762.42] wander far -[4762.42 --> 4762.92] afield -[4762.92 --> 4763.54] leaving the -[4763.54 --> 4764.38] 99 to -[4764.38 --> 4764.78] come and -[4764.78 --> 4765.48] get us -[4765.48 --> 4766.38] the one -[4766.38 --> 4767.28] who is -[4767.28 --> 4767.98] away. -[4768.18 --> 4768.70] Find -[4768.70 --> 4769.54] us -[4769.54 --> 4770.26] today -[4770.26 --> 4770.98] Lord -[4770.98 --> 4771.40] Jesus -[4771.40 --> 4771.68] whether -[4771.68 --> 4772.04] for the -[4772.04 --> 4772.36] first -[4772.36 --> 4772.82] time -[4772.82 --> 4773.46] or the -[4773.46 --> 4774.44] 501st -[4774.44 --> 4774.86] time -[4774.86 --> 4776.22] find us -[4776.22 --> 4776.82] today -[4776.82 --> 4777.48] that we -[4777.48 --> 4778.06] might -[4778.06 --> 4778.62] sing -[4778.62 --> 4779.26] as a -[4779.26 --> 4779.70] statement -[4779.70 --> 4780.44] of faith -[4780.44 --> 4781.04] and a -[4781.04 --> 4781.28] sure -[4781.28 --> 4781.84] conviction -[4781.84 --> 4782.86] how -[4782.86 --> 4783.86] great -[4783.86 --> 4784.94] thou -[4784.94 --> 4786.00] art. -[4786.76 --> 4787.00] Shout -[4787.00 --> 4787.82] for joy -[4787.82 --> 4788.24] to the -[4788.24 --> 4788.60] Lord -[4788.60 --> 4789.64] all -[4789.64 --> 4790.64] the -[4790.64 --> 4791.00] earth. -[4791.80 --> 4792.08] Worship -[4792.08 --> 4792.72] the Lord -[4792.72 --> 4793.30] with -[4793.30 --> 4793.88] gladness. -[4794.08 --> 4794.26] Come -[4794.26 --> 4794.84] before -[4794.84 --> 4795.38] him -[4795.38 --> 4796.00] with -[4796.00 --> 4796.60] joyful -[4796.60 --> 4797.86] song. -[4798.78 --> 4798.94] In -[4798.94 --> 4799.64] Jesus name -[4799.64 --> 4800.20] we pray. -[4801.10 --> 4801.46] Amen. -[4829.64 --> 4832.26] Lord -[4832.26 --> 4833.90] my God -[4833.90 --> 4835.06] when I -[4835.06 --> 4836.06] in awesome -[4836.06 --> 4837.52] wonder -[4837.52 --> 4839.48] consider -[4839.48 --> 4840.76] all -[4840.76 --> 4841.56] my -[4841.56 --> 4842.00] words -[4842.00 --> 4842.42] I -[4842.42 --> 4842.88] have -[4842.88 --> 4843.38] to -[4843.38 --> 4844.14] see -[4844.14 --> 4845.70] I -[4845.70 --> 4846.26] see -[4846.26 --> 4846.70] the -[4846.70 --> 4847.64] star -[4847.64 --> 4848.36] I -[4848.36 --> 4848.90] hear -[4848.90 --> 4849.32] the -[4849.32 --> 4850.08] rolling -[4850.08 --> 4851.26] thunder -[4851.26 --> 4852.72] I -[4852.72 --> 4853.30] love -[4853.30 --> 4855.26] the -[4855.26 --> 4856.68] universe -[4856.68 --> 4857.06] to -[4857.06 --> 4857.94] say -[4857.94 --> 4860.70] me -[4860.70 --> 4861.32] in -[4861.32 --> 4861.60] sense -[4861.60 --> 4861.98] my soul -[4861.98 --> 4862.20] my -[4862.20 --> 4863.08] saviour -[4863.08 --> 4863.72] God -[4863.72 --> 4863.94] to -[4863.94 --> 4864.82] me -[4864.82 --> 4866.48] how -[4866.48 --> 4866.88] great -[4866.88 --> 4867.30] thou -[4867.30 --> 4868.74] art -[4868.74 --> 4869.78] how -[4869.78 --> 4870.32] great -[4870.32 --> 4870.78] thou -[4870.78 --> 4872.26] art -[4872.26 --> 4873.08] in -[4873.08 --> 4873.60] sense -[4873.60 --> 4875.10] my soul -[4875.10 --> 4875.66] my -[4875.66 --> 4876.54] saviour -[4876.54 --> 4877.16] God -[4877.16 --> 4877.42] to -[4877.42 --> 4878.58] me -[4878.58 --> 4879.84] how -[4879.84 --> 4880.26] great -[4880.26 --> 4880.76] thou -[4880.76 --> 4882.32] art -[4882.32 --> 4883.14] how -[4883.14 --> 4883.56] great -[4883.56 --> 4884.02] thou -[4884.02 --> 4885.52] art -[4885.52 --> 4895.36] When through the woods and forest streets I wander -[4895.36 --> 4901.82] I hear the birds sing sweetly in the sky -[4901.82 --> 4908.94] When I look down, come walk me out in wonder -[4908.94 --> 4915.14] Then hear the birds and hear the birds of the earth -[4915.14 --> 4922.76] And sings my soul, my Savior God to me -[4922.76 --> 4928.90] How great the world, how great the world -[4928.90 --> 4935.68] Then sings my soul, my Savior God to me -[4935.68 --> 4942.42] How great the world, how great the world -[4942.42 --> 4953.04] But when I see that God his Son not sparing -[4953.04 --> 4959.80] Sends him to die, I scarce can take it in -[4959.80 --> 4966.42] That on the cross my burden gladly bearing -[4966.42 --> 4973.42] He bled and died to take away my sin -[4973.42 --> 4981.04] Then sings my soul, my Savior God to thee -[4981.04 --> 4987.66] How great thou art, how great thou art -[4987.66 --> 4993.66] Then sings my soul, my Savior God to thee -[4993.66 --> 5000.66] How great thou art, how great thou art -[5000.66 --> 5011.28] When Christ shall come, his shout of acclimation -[5011.28 --> 5018.28] And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart -[5018.28 --> 5024.62] Then I shall bow in a full adoration -[5024.62 --> 5032.24] And there will be my heart, how great thou art -[5032.24 --> 5038.24] Then sings my soul, my Savior God to me -[5038.24 --> 5044.24] How great thou art, how great thou art -[5044.24 --> 5055.86] How great thou art, how great thou art -[5055.86 --> 5073.70] As you go into this week, as you come from here -[5073.70 --> 5078.18] Experiencing and feeling whatever it is that you do -[5078.18 --> 5081.32] And going to wherever it is that you go -[5081.32 --> 5085.74] Know that God himself goes with you -[5085.74 --> 5090.36] As you go, go also with an invitation -[5090.36 --> 5093.00] To stick around in fellowship afterwards -[5093.00 --> 5094.04] There's coffee -[5094.04 --> 5097.04] I was reminded of an announcement that I didn't make -[5097.04 --> 5099.32] There is also children's choir practice -[5099.32 --> 5102.48] So if you are in the children's choir -[5102.48 --> 5103.94] If your kids are in the children's choir -[5103.94 --> 5105.76] They are meeting in the multi-purpose room -[5105.76 --> 5107.00] Following service -[5107.00 --> 5109.10] And there's 20-20 tonight -[5109.10 --> 5111.04] So if you're a youth person -[5111.04 --> 5112.20] That's 20-20 tonight -[5112.20 --> 5114.34] Here at church beginning at 6-30 -[5114.34 --> 5115.48] If you have questions about that -[5115.48 --> 5116.80] Pastor Kevin will answer them -[5116.80 --> 5120.52] Go then in the power of the Spirit -[5120.52 --> 5122.74] With the blessing of God -[5122.74 --> 5126.10] May God go before you -[5126.10 --> 5128.06] To prepare a way for you -[5128.06 --> 5130.68] May God go behind you -[5130.68 --> 5131.88] To protect you -[5131.88 --> 5134.48] May God go beneath you -[5134.48 --> 5135.44] To support you -[5135.44 --> 5137.96] And may God go beside you -[5137.96 --> 5139.18] To befriend you -[5139.18 --> 5141.22] Do not be afraid -[5141.22 --> 5143.70] Let the blessing of God come upon you today -[5143.70 --> 5145.38] Do not be afraid -[5145.38 --> 5147.56] But go in peace -[5147.56 --> 5150.80] To love and serve the Lord -[5150.80 --> 5152.82] Amen -[5173.70 --> 5181.94] Monterebee -[5181.94 --> 5185.90] Now up to the King eternal -[5185.90 --> 5197.58] Into the Kingаго -[5197.58 --> 5200.58] His death alone -[5201.16 --> 5206.24] The only wise soul -[5206.24 --> 5213.58] The only wise soul -[5213.58 --> 5222.58] Now unto the King eternal -[5222.58 --> 5229.58] Unto the King eternal -[5229.58 --> 5235.58] Unto the King eternal -[5235.58 --> 5241.58] The only wise soul -[5241.58 --> 5247.58] The only wise soul -[5247.58 --> 5254.58] Come unto the King -[5254.58 --> 5258.58] The glory and honor -[5258.58 --> 5262.58] Unto the King forever -[5262.58 --> 5268.58] Come to the King -[5268.58 --> 5269.58] The only wise soul -[5269.58 --> 5270.58] The only wise soul -[5270.58 --> 5271.58] Come to the King eternal -[5271.58 --> 5274.58] For the King eternal -[5274.58 --> 5288.52] For ever my hvad -[5288.52 --> 5318.50] Thank you. -[5318.52 --> 5348.50] Thank you. -[5348.52 --> 5378.50] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - November 6, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - November 6, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 998d3c5400235838eb5d497b3a5dc1b2cf35e817..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - November 6, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,115 +0,0 @@ -• Repeating praise and worship to God -• Jesus' resurrection and reign -• God's blessings and favor on individuals and families -• Prayer and blessing for the congregation -• Introduction by Pastor Kevin Lover -• Transitioning into church service -• Youth coffee event at Fran and John Skipper's house after the service -• Choir auditions for Christmas performance in two weeks, led by Mark -• Collection of mason jars for gems ministry cookie fundraiser -• Call to worship from 2 Samuel chapter 22, emphasizing God as rock and redeemer -• Reading of Revelation 1:4-6, quoting "Grace and peace to you" -• Worship and praise of God -• Recognition of sin and need for forgiveness -• Confession and prayer -• Assurance of God's love, mercy, and faithfulness -• Praise and worship of God -• Faithfulness of God -• Provision and mercy of God -• Greatness and majesty of God -• Holiness of God -• Worship and devotion to God -• Redemption through Jesus Christ -• Invitation to come and worship God -• Call to be holy and follow God -• The speaker is a deacon in the church -• The worship service continues with the giving of gifts to support various ministries and projects -• Seeds of Hope Children's Ministry is mentioned, which was started by Reverend John and Susan Chakias to help children orphaned due to AIDS in Africa -• The ministry has opened homes for HIV-AIDS infected children in Thailand and provides a secure environment for women affected by the disease -• Other projects mentioned include Grace Academy, a boarding school and home for over 170 orphaned children in Zambia, and orphanages in Myanmar -• The importance of giving generously is emphasized with quotes from Proverbs -• The next week's offering will be for the Budget and Diaconal Ministries Canada -• Various thank yous are given by the speaker -• An announcement is made regarding Pastor Chris's absence due to his ordination at another church -• AGM congregational meeting on November 23rd to discuss the budget -• Josh Chamberlain appointed as young adult ministry leader -• Prayers for Stacy's mother, Joan, who had an aneurysm stroke and is not doing well -• Prayers for Nikki and Jared's grandfather Tony, who passed away in his late 80s -• Prayers for the Hanson family after the loss of their brother and son Aaron -• Request to lead into a family prayer to express gratitude and ask for God's guidance and comfort -• Personal and church struggles with physical ailments and difficult life events -• Request for God's support and guidance during challenging times -• Need for words of comfort and community in times of grief -• Scripture reference to Philippians 4:6-7 on anxiety and prayer -• Reflections on recent accidents, conferences, and funerals that have affected the church community -• Acknowledgement of ongoing grief and mourning within the church family -• Introduction to Psalm 88 as a "Dark Psalm" that challenges traditional assumptions about biblical content. -• Discussion of Psalm 88 and its themes of hopelessness and despair -• Description of the psalmist's language and emotions in expressing suffering and loneliness -• Analysis of how the psalmist feels abandoned by God and experiences His absence in times of need -• Exploration of the concept of despair and how it can lead to feelings of isolation -• The concept of despair as described by Allender and Longman -• Despair as the passive cousin of jealousy, triggered by abandonment -• A spectrum of feelings that despair falls onto, including regret, sadness, depression, and despair -• Definition of each step on the spectrum: - - Regret: acknowledging loss without sadness - - Sadness: feeling sorrow in response to life events - - Depression: feeling sad without a reason to feel sad - - Despair: emptiness, brokenness, loneliness, hopelessness -• Comparison between depression and despair, noting that people can live with depression but not despair -• Despair is a common emotion experienced by people due to the loss of relationship -• The loss of loved ones, death, divorce, and estrangement can all contribute to feelings of despair -• Despair can also be caused by trying to cover up or ignore one's emotions through busyness or platitudes -• When we feel despair, it is easy to fall into loneliness and a lack of hope -• However, even in the midst of despair, there is always hope for healing and connection with others. -• The feeling of despair and how Jesus enters into it -• Faith in Jesus Christ allows Him to reveal His hope -• Jesus is big enough to enter into our despair -• Story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead (John 11:1-44) -• Why Jesus wept at Lazarus' tomb despite knowing He had the power to raise him -• Death as inevitable in a fallen world, and its impact on relationships and emotions -• Jesus is in a state of despair during his final hours before crucifixion, as described in Matthew 26 and Psalm 88. -• He asks his friends to stay with him but they fall asleep, abandoning him in his time of need. -• Jesus is also abandoned by God the Father on the cross. -• Despite experiencing despair, Jesus still lives and rose from the dead three days later. -• Jesus now sits in heaven interceding for people who cry out to him in their times of despair. -• The necessity of Jesus' death and suffering -• Matthew 26, 39 reference to Jesus' request to God to take the cup from him -• Jesus' understanding and willingness to endure suffering for human salvation -• The transformative power of Jesus' cries of despair on the cross -• The promise of hope through Jesus for humanity and individual suffering -• Despair as a means to lead people to Jesus and the heart-opening potential of sorrow -• The concept of despair and its relationship to hope -• The distinction between ungodly and godly despair -• The role of seeking God in the midst of turmoil and loss -• The importance of addressing God even in feeling abandoned or forgotten -• The theme of hope entering lives when crying out to God in despair, as seen throughout Scripture -• The presence and power of God/Jesus in times of despair -• Stories of people turning to Jesus at their last resort -• Testimonies from individuals who have found hope in Jesus during difficult times -• Examples from various organizations and events, including the Gateway of Hope and Union Gospel Mission -• The gospel being preached and people responding to it in situations of grief and loss -• Despair is a common experience for many people -• Being present with someone in despair is key to helping them -• The speaker emphasizes the importance of not giving platitudes or trying to "cure" someone's feelings, but rather being there with them -• Jesus' approach to despair is cited as an example to follow -• Misquoting 1 Corinthians 10:13 to justify saying God won't give you more than you can handle is criticized -• The real meaning of the passage is about temptation and provision, not trials or handling emotions -• Sometimes people need to be comforted in their despair, rather than told they're strong enough to handle it -• The importance of being vulnerable with someone, such as a friend or mentor, when feeling overwhelmed -• Availability of church elders for prayer and support during the service -• Encouragement to seek out prayer from church leaders if feeling despair -• Importance of seeking eternal hope in Jesus Christ amidst difficult circumstances -• Despair and darkness -• God's presence as a refuge from despair -• Prayer for comfort and guidance during difficult emotions -• Praise to God in both light and darkness -• Worship and song to God despite struggles and pain -• Reaching out to those struggling with despair through the church -• Despair and hope -• Jesus as the one who saves and redeems -• The priestly blessing from Numbers 6 -• Faith and trust in God -• Redemption through Christ's blood -• Glory and faith in God -• Praise and worship of God \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - November 6, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - November 6, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 1c77d87359c912c82970dbf8491706167b2df090..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - November 6, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1953 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 20.88] With a thousand hallelujahs we magnify your name. You alone deserve the glory, the honor and the praise. Lord Jesus, this song is forever yours. -[20.88 --> 42.26] A thousand hallelujahs and a thousand more. Who else would go for a redemption? Whose resurrection means a rise. -[42.26 --> 56.26] There isn't time enough to sing of all you've done. But I have eternity to try. -[56.26 --> 72.26] With a thousand hallelujahs we magnify your name. You alone deserve the glory, the honor and the praise. -[72.26 --> 86.26] Lord Jesus, this song is forever yours. A thousand hallelujahs and a thousand more. -[86.26 --> 92.26] Praise to the Lord. -[92.26 --> 96.26] Praise to the Lord. -[96.26 --> 104.26] Praise to the Lord. -[104.26 --> 108.26] To the Lamb. -[108.26 --> 113.26] To the King of heaven. -[113.26 --> 115.26] Praise. -[115.26 --> 119.26] For He rose. -[119.26 --> 122.26] Now He raised. -[122.26 --> 127.26] We will sing forever. -[127.26 --> 133.26] Praise to the Lord. -[133.26 --> 134.26] Praise to the Lord. -[134.26 --> 135.26] Praise to the Lord. -[135.26 --> 136.26] To the Lamb. -[136.26 --> 141.26] To the King of heaven. -[141.26 --> 142.26] Praise. -[142.26 --> 147.26] For He rose. -[147.26 --> 151.26] Now He raised. -[151.26 --> 156.26] We will sing forever. -[156.26 --> 164.44] With a thousand hallelujahs, we magnify your name -[164.44 --> 171.66] You all deserve the glory, the honor and the praise -[171.66 --> 177.78] For Jesus, this song is forever yours -[177.78 --> 184.82] A thousand hallelujahs and a thousand more -[184.82 --> 200.18] We sing praise, we sing praise -[200.18 --> 211.68] To the Lord, to the Lamb, to the King of heaven -[211.68 --> 214.08] Praise -[214.08 --> 225.66] When He rose, now He reigns, we will sing forever -[225.66 --> 235.22] With a thousand hallelujahs, we magnify your name -[235.22 --> 242.30] You all deserve the glory, the honor and the praise -[242.30 --> 248.44] Lord Jesus, this song is forever yours -[248.44 --> 255.52] A thousand hallelujahs and a thousand more -[255.52 --> 264.82] A thousand hallelujahs and a thousand more -[264.82 --> 268.74] A thousand hallelujahs and a thousand more -[268.74 --> 279.82] The Lord bless you -[279.82 --> 294.90] The Lord bless you -[294.90 --> 301.98] The Lord bless you and keep you -[301.98 --> 308.48] Make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you -[308.48 --> 315.56] The Lord turn His face toward you -[315.56 --> 322.64] And give His face toward you -[322.64 --> 337.72] And give you peace -[337.72 --> 352.80] Amen -[352.80 --> 359.88] Amen -[359.88 --> 363.88] Amen -[363.88 --> 365.88] Amen -[365.88 --> 367.88] Amen -[367.88 --> 369.88] Amen -[369.88 --> 386.96] Amen -[386.96 --> 390.96] Amen -[390.96 --> 408.54] Amen -[408.54 --> 409.54] Amen -[409.54 --> 426.62] Amen -[426.62 --> 428.62] Amen -[428.62 --> 430.62] Amen -[430.62 --> 431.12] Amen -[431.12 --> 432.12] Amen -[432.12 --> 433.12] Amen -[433.12 --> 455.70] Amen -[455.70 --> 456.70] Amen -[456.70 --> 471.78] Amen -[479.28 --> 481.16] May His favor be upon you -[481.16 --> 488.26] May His favor be upon you And a thousand generations -[488.26 --> 495.46] And your family, and your children And their children, and their children -[495.46 --> 501.84] May His favor be upon you And a thousand generations -[501.84 --> 522.56] Give us a break for you. -[531.84 --> 537.26] And the children of His presence come before you -[537.26 --> 540.62] And behind you and beside you -[540.62 --> 544.18] All around you and within you -[544.18 --> 547.54] He is in you, He is in you -[547.54 --> 550.70] In the morning and the evening -[550.70 --> 554.20] And you're coming and you're going -[554.20 --> 557.84] And you're leaving and rejoicing -[557.84 --> 573.20] He is for you, He is for you -[573.20 --> 573.98] Amen -[573.98 --> 579.42] Amen -[579.42 --> 582.86] Amen -[582.86 --> 586.28] Amen -[587.84 --> 593.12] Amen -[593.12 --> 596.84] Amen -[596.84 --> 600.06] Amen -[600.06 --> 605.78] May His favor be upon you -[605.78 --> 608.92] Yet a thousand generations -[608.92 --> 610.82] And your family -[610.82 --> 612.42] And your children -[612.42 --> 614.24] And their children -[614.24 --> 615.78] And their children -[615.78 --> 617.70] And these praises -[617.70 --> 619.46] Come before you -[619.46 --> 621.20] And behind you -[621.20 --> 622.92] And beside you -[622.92 --> 624.50] All around you -[624.50 --> 630.00] Good morning everyone -[630.00 --> 633.26] We'll try that again -[633.26 --> 634.80] Good morning everyone -[634.80 --> 638.16] We're still nestling into the comfy chairs -[638.16 --> 639.16] Oh my shoes! -[639.34 --> 639.88] Thanks Isla -[639.88 --> 641.72] I'll bring those to the chair in a second -[641.72 --> 644.00] It's good to see you all this morning -[644.00 --> 645.36] Good to be here in church today -[645.36 --> 646.62] My name is Kevin Lover -[646.62 --> 647.70] And I'm one of the pastors here -[647.70 --> 648.94] The youth pastor at this church -[648.94 --> 651.08] And it's a joy to be here this morning -[651.08 --> 653.28] Maybe some of you were here an hour early -[653.28 --> 654.26] That's good -[654.26 --> 656.76] You could take a nap on these super comfortable chairs -[656.76 --> 659.10] We're super glad they came in a little bit early -[659.10 --> 660.64] Which is awesome -[660.64 --> 660.94] So -[660.94 --> 663.52] A few announcements this morning -[663.52 --> 664.62] Before we begin our service -[664.62 --> 666.08] First of all, youth -[666.08 --> 667.46] We have youth coffee today -[667.46 --> 669.24] It'll be at Fran and John Skipper's house -[669.24 --> 671.06] So you can head there after the service -[671.06 --> 672.20] We'll hang out -[672.20 --> 672.78] We'll have some food -[672.78 --> 673.54] It'll be wonderful -[673.54 --> 674.72] Hope to see you all there -[674.72 --> 678.14] If you are a parent or a child -[678.14 --> 679.64] Who is interested -[679.64 --> 681.70] I mean the parents are interested for their children -[681.70 --> 682.60] I should clarify that -[682.60 --> 684.50] But if you're a child who's interested in singing -[684.50 --> 686.90] In the choir this coming Christmas -[686.90 --> 689.32] Rehearsals for that are going to start in two weeks -[689.32 --> 691.28] And so if you are interested in doing that -[691.28 --> 693.58] Please sort of circle that date in your calendar -[693.58 --> 694.54] Two weeks today -[694.54 --> 696.10] It'll be happening after the service -[696.10 --> 696.94] You can talk to Mark -[696.94 --> 697.66] Is Mark here? -[697.78 --> 698.58] Mark's going to wave -[698.58 --> 700.38] He was here -[700.38 --> 700.90] He's running -[700.90 --> 701.42] Oh there he is -[701.42 --> 701.88] He's in the back -[701.88 --> 702.82] See hey there's Mark -[702.82 --> 704.44] Go talk to Mark about that -[704.44 --> 707.00] We look forward to hearing all of the kids -[707.00 --> 708.80] And the choir sing at Christmas time -[708.80 --> 709.66] Finally -[709.66 --> 711.74] There's been an announcement in the bulletin -[711.74 --> 712.70] The past couple weeks -[712.70 --> 715.12] About needing some jars -[715.12 --> 716.86] For the gems ministry -[716.86 --> 718.52] They're doing a cookie fundraiser -[718.52 --> 720.38] To help with the gems camp this year -[720.38 --> 722.54] They have sold a ton of gems jars -[722.54 --> 723.12] Cookie jars -[723.12 --> 725.86] But we need a bunch more mason jars -[725.86 --> 726.90] If you have them -[726.90 --> 728.86] So they are looking for either wide mouth -[728.86 --> 730.38] Or regular mouth -[730.38 --> 732.16] Court sized jars -[732.16 --> 733.08] So if you have those -[733.08 --> 734.62] You can bring them into the church in the next week -[734.62 --> 735.36] That would be wonderful -[735.36 --> 738.42] And then if you want to buy some cookies from them -[738.42 --> 739.66] That would also be wonderful -[739.66 --> 741.40] So I'm going to invite you all now -[741.40 --> 742.38] To please stand -[742.38 --> 745.16] And hear God's greeting this morning -[745.16 --> 750.78] God's greeting this morning -[750.78 --> 752.56] Comes from Revelation 1 -[752.56 --> 753.34] Where it says -[753.34 --> 755.18] Grace and peace to you -[755.18 --> 756.46] From him who is -[756.46 --> 757.62] And who was -[757.62 --> 758.88] And who is to come -[758.88 --> 760.58] And from the seven spirits -[760.58 --> 761.78] Before his throne -[761.78 --> 763.50] And from Jesus Christ -[763.50 --> 765.30] Who is the faithful witness -[765.30 --> 767.36] The firstborn of the dead -[767.36 --> 768.56] And the ruler -[768.56 --> 770.42] Of the kings of the earth -[770.42 --> 772.04] And all God's people said -[772.04 --> 772.96] Amen -[772.96 --> 774.56] Please take a moment to greet one another -[774.56 --> 775.30] Those around you -[775.30 --> 775.42] Amen -[775.42 --> 805.32] Our calls to worship this morning -[805.32 --> 808.08] Comes from 2 Samuel chapter 22 -[808.08 --> 811.42] The Lord is my rock -[811.42 --> 812.76] My fortress -[812.76 --> 813.88] And my redeemer -[813.88 --> 815.88] My God is my rock -[815.88 --> 817.62] In whom I take refuge -[817.62 --> 818.50] My shield -[818.50 --> 820.66] And the horn of my salvation -[820.66 --> 822.84] He is my stronghold -[822.84 --> 824.02] My refuge -[824.02 --> 824.84] And my savior -[824.84 --> 826.54] For who is God -[826.54 --> 827.44] Besides the Lord -[827.44 --> 829.38] And who is the rock -[829.38 --> 830.58] Except our God -[830.58 --> 832.12] The Lord lives -[832.12 --> 833.90] Praise be to the rock -[833.90 --> 835.76] Exalted be my God -[835.76 --> 836.52] The rock -[836.52 --> 837.30] My savior -[837.30 --> 839.66] Therefore I will praise you Lord -[839.66 --> 840.84] Among the nations -[840.84 --> 842.60] I will sing the praises -[842.60 --> 843.46] Of your name -[843.46 --> 849.84] Oooh -[851.56 --> 852.12] Let us seal you in the twine -[852.12 --> 853.02] Lord -[853.02 --> 854.06] Thank you -[854.06 --> 854.76] Thank you -[854.76 --> 856.34] My savior -[856.34 --> 856.84] Thank you -[856.84 --> 858.08] Thank you -[858.08 --> 858.96] Thank you -[859.08 --> 871.00] Thanks for my -[871.00 --> 876.70] I am a man -[876.70 --> 880.94] Swept down into darkness -[880.94 --> 886.46] Open my eyes as we see -[886.46 --> 891.46] Beauty that made me -[891.46 --> 894.50] This heart of love -[894.50 --> 899.50] Open my eyes as we see -[899.50 --> 906.76] So here I am to worship -[906.76 --> 910.38] Here I am to follow -[910.38 --> 913.88] Here I am to stay -[913.88 --> 917.32] Love my God -[917.32 --> 920.78] All together love -[920.78 --> 924.44] All together glory -[924.44 --> 928.06] All together hunger -[928.06 --> 935.32] He through our faith -[935.32 --> 937.44] King of allWE -[937.44 --> 938.94] King of all maps -[938.94 --> 943.98] なんです -[943.98 --> 947.28] Lord, I'll sing you. -[950.88 --> 957.40] I'll be a king to the earth, please. -[958.12 --> 961.56] Father, I'll sing you. -[965.90 --> 969.74] So here I am to worship. -[969.74 --> 973.22] Here I am to bow. -[973.22 --> 977.22] Here I am to sing you. -[977.58 --> 980.22] Lord, I'll sing you. -[980.94 --> 984.22] All together love me. -[984.50 --> 987.84] All together love me. -[988.12 --> 991.22] All together love me. -[991.22 --> 995.22] All together love me. -[995.22 --> 1002.22] I'll never know how much it comes. -[1002.22 --> 1006.22] To see my sin. -[1006.22 --> 1009.22] How far I've lost. -[1009.22 --> 1016.22] I'll never know how much it comes. -[1016.22 --> 1020.22] To see my sin. -[1020.22 --> 1024.22] I'll never know how much it comes. -[1024.22 --> 1028.22] Here I am to worship. -[1028.22 --> 1030.22] Here I am to worship. -[1030.22 --> 1032.22] Here I am to bow down. -[1032.22 --> 1038.22] Here I am to say that you're my God. -[1038.22 --> 1039.22] Here I am to worship. -[1039.22 --> 1042.22] Here I am to worship. -[1042.22 --> 1044.22] Here I am to bow down. -[1044.22 --> 1045.22] Here I am to sing. -[1045.22 --> 1048.22] Matthew, too. -[1048.22 --> 1052.10] Okay. -[1052.10 --> 1061.86] is -[1068.58 --> 1077.86] together -[1077.86 --> 1101.22] For Thou, O Lord, art high -[1101.22 --> 1107.56] Above all the earth -[1107.56 --> 1110.72] Thou art exalted -[1110.72 --> 1118.36] Far above all God -[1118.36 --> 1126.76] Thou, O Lord, art high -[1126.76 --> 1131.16] Above all the earth -[1131.16 --> 1136.32] Thou art exalted -[1136.32 --> 1143.48] Far above all God -[1143.48 --> 1150.64] I exalt Thee -[1150.64 --> 1154.64] I exalt Thee -[1154.64 --> 1160.64] I exalt Thee -[1160.64 --> 1167.80] I exalt Thee -[1167.80 --> 1173.80] I exalt Thee -[1173.80 --> 1175.80] I exalt Thee -[1175.80 --> 1182.96] I exalt Thee -[1182.96 --> 1184.96] I exalt Thee -[1184.96 --> 1188.96] I exalt Thee -[1188.96 --> 1202.12] I exalt Thee -[1202.12 --> 1203.12] I exalt Thee -[1203.12 --> 1204.28] I exalt Thee -[1204.28 --> 1205.28] I exalt Thee -[1205.28 --> 1209.28] I exalt Thee -[1210.18 --> 1219.30] For Thou, O Lord, O Lord, all기 Gay. -[1221.58 --> 1229.78] Thou, I sheltered by, O God. -[1229.78 --> 1237.56] I adore Thee -[1237.56 --> 1247.62] I adore Thee -[1247.62 --> 1252.76] I adore Thee -[1252.76 --> 1257.62] I adore Thee -[1257.62 --> 1262.06] I exalt thee. -[1263.36 --> 1268.06] I exalt thee. -[1269.42 --> 1270.96] Amen. -[1274.96 --> 1276.68] You may have a seat. -[1280.04 --> 1282.56] Please join me in our prayer of confession. -[1283.06 --> 1283.92] Let's pray together. -[1283.92 --> 1290.02] God, we can often be too busy or preoccupied, -[1290.50 --> 1294.20] and we need reminders to take the time for what is important, -[1295.24 --> 1296.86] our relationship with you. -[1298.24 --> 1300.72] In a time now of silent prayer, Lord, -[1301.34 --> 1302.90] we take time to be still -[1302.90 --> 1307.00] and to be with you alone in a time of confession. -[1313.92 --> 1339.32] Dear God, silence can be hard. -[1339.32 --> 1344.04] Confession can be hard, and life can be hard. -[1344.96 --> 1346.46] Faithful God, as believers, -[1346.84 --> 1350.88] you promise to stay with us through all the difficult parts of life. -[1351.68 --> 1355.76] You have heard our confessions and been with us in our silent prayers. -[1356.98 --> 1360.86] For your forgiveness, faithfulness, and love, we are grateful. -[1360.86 --> 1364.22] In the name of Jesus, we pray. -[1365.04 --> 1365.36] Amen. -[1366.64 --> 1371.08] Please stand as we hear some more words of assurance. -[1372.08 --> 1375.92] As Christians, we can rejoice in good news. -[1376.70 --> 1378.30] And the good news is this. -[1378.98 --> 1382.18] The steadfast love of God never ceases. -[1383.16 --> 1385.84] God's mercies never come to an end. -[1385.84 --> 1388.04] They are new every morning. -[1388.90 --> 1390.86] Great is God's faithfulness. -[1390.86 --> 1391.86] Amen. -[1415.84 --> 1421.46] Just not let no questions be careful. -[1421.46 --> 1428.74] As God has fear, the forever will be. -[1429.82 --> 1433.54] Great is thy faithfulness. -[1433.54 --> 1437.34] Great is thy faithfulness. -[1437.82 --> 1444.10] Morning by morning, the mercies I see. -[1444.10 --> 1451.96] All I have needed, thy hand hath provided. -[1452.96 --> 1456.66] Great is thy faithfulness. -[1456.66 --> 1459.16] Joy unto me. -[1462.16 --> 1469.40] Summer and winter and springtime and harvest. -[1469.40 --> 1476.40] Sun, moon and stars, where forces above. -[1476.40 --> 1484.40] Join with all nature in manifold witness. -[1484.40 --> 1492.04] To thy great faithfulness, mercy and love. -[1492.04 --> 1494.04] Great is thy faithfulness. -[1494.04 --> 1498.04] Great is thy faithfulness. -[1498.04 --> 1502.04] Great is thy faithfulness. -[1502.04 --> 1503.04] Great is thy faithfulness. -[1503.04 --> 1509.04] Morning by morning, new mercies I see. -[1509.04 --> 1516.04] All I have needed, thy hand hath provided. -[1516.04 --> 1517.04] Great is thy faithfulness. -[1517.04 --> 1518.04] Great is thy faithfulness. -[1518.04 --> 1519.04] Great is thy faithfulness. -[1519.04 --> 1521.04] Great is thy faithfulness. -[1521.04 --> 1523.04] Lord, unto me. -[1523.04 --> 1525.04] Ng efectivines praying for my wisdom. -[1525.04 --> 1526.04] header and cover made. -[1526.04 --> 1527.04] God bless thee. -[1527.04 --> 1527.36] Far Goes, Lord, to me. -[1527.36 --> 1527.98] Oh heaven. -[1527.98 --> 1529.04] For sin, sea. -[1529.04 --> 1530.04] Reason that thy faithfulness. -[1530.04 --> 1531.38] rhinos. -[1531.38 --> 1532.00] tree or scow. -[1532.00 --> 1536.54] in His faithfulness, -[1536.54 --> 1538.86] Bae all dear paths, To cheer and to guide. -[1538.86 --> 1542.06] Strength for today, and line nophor. -[1542.06 --> 1549.04] Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow -[1549.04 --> 1557.04] Blessings of my ten thousand stars -[1557.04 --> 1567.04] Great is thy goodness, great is thy fullness -[1567.04 --> 1574.62] Morning by morning will mercies I sing -[1574.62 --> 1582.06] All I have needed, I have had provided -[1582.06 --> 1589.38] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord and King -[1597.04 --> 1627.02] All I have needed, I have had provided -[1627.02 --> 1629.02] Great is thy goodness, great is thy goodness -[1629.02 --> 1635.02] The grace of God, who has made everything bow down -[1635.02 --> 1642.02] Who has the whisper and darkness drowns -[1642.02 --> 1646.02] Only a holy God -[1646.02 --> 1655.02] What a beauty to this such great soul -[1655.02 --> 1661.02] What a splendor that shines the sun -[1661.02 --> 1667.02] What a majesty rules it just in -[1667.02 --> 1673.02] Only a holy God -[1673.02 --> 1683.02] Love and behold me, the wonder we are -[1683.02 --> 1694.02] Thy hope sing glory forever a holy God -[1694.02 --> 1700.02] And I worship the holy God -[1700.02 --> 1704.02] What a glory consumes like fire -[1704.02 --> 1714.02] What a glory consumes like fire -[1714.02 --> 1716.02] What a glory consumes like fire -[1716.02 --> 1720.02] What a power can blaze the death -[1720.02 --> 1722.02] What a glory consumes like fire -[1722.02 --> 1726.02] What a glory consumes like fire -[1726.02 --> 1728.02] What a glory consumes like fire -[1728.02 --> 1732.02] What a glory consumes like fire -[1732.02 --> 1734.02] And I worship the holy God -[1734.02 --> 1738.02] Come and behold me, the wonder we are -[1738.02 --> 1744.02] Come and behold me, the wonder we are -[1744.02 --> 1746.02] Who cry and behold me, the wonder we are -[1746.02 --> 1750.02] Who cry and behold me, the wonder we are -[1750.02 --> 1752.02] Who cry and behold me, the wonder we are -[1752.02 --> 1754.02] Who cry and behold me, the wonder we are -[1754.02 --> 1756.02] Who cry and behold me, the wonder we are -[1756.02 --> 1762.02] Who who cry and behold me, the wonder we are -[1762.02 --> 1764.02] Who cry and behold me, the wonder we are -[1764.02 --> 1769.02] And I worship the holy God -[1769.02 --> 1775.02] Who cry and behold me, the wonder we are -[1775.02 --> 1777.02] Holy God -[1777.02 --> 1779.22] Come and worship -[1779.22 --> 1781.02] the Holy God -[1805.02 --> 1808.18] Who else could rescue me -[1808.18 --> 1810.22] from my failing -[1810.22 --> 1813.84] Who else would offer -[1813.84 --> 1816.42] his only son -[1816.42 --> 1819.94] Who else invites me -[1819.94 --> 1822.30] to call him father -[1822.30 --> 1827.54] Only a holy God -[1827.54 --> 1832.58] Only my holy God -[1832.58 --> 1839.58] Come and be holy -[1839.58 --> 1842.58] The one here -[1842.58 --> 1844.58] The one here -[1844.58 --> 1846.58] Who else would offer -[1846.58 --> 1848.58] his only son -[1848.58 --> 1850.58] Come and worship -[1850.58 --> 1852.58] the Holy God -[1852.58 --> 1854.58] And bless you -[1854.58 --> 1856.58] The Holy God -[1856.58 --> 1858.58] Come and be holy -[1858.58 --> 1860.58] Come and be holy -[1860.58 --> 1862.58] Come and be holy -[1862.58 --> 1864.58] Come and be holy -[1864.58 --> 1866.58] Come and be holy -[1866.58 --> 1868.58] Come and be holy -[1868.58 --> 1870.58] I am -[1870.58 --> 1872.92] See you -[1874.12 --> 1874.58] forever -[1874.58 --> 1876.58] With me -[1876.58 --> 1878.58] Come and be holy -[1878.58 --> 1880.82] Let's worship the Lord. -[1882.26 --> 1885.60] Let's worship the Lord. -[1885.60 --> 1886.72] Let's worship the Lord. -[1889.26 --> 1890.52] You can have a seat. -[1908.58 --> 1910.56] Good morning. -[1916.56 --> 1917.46] Good morning. -[1918.10 --> 1918.88] I'm Emil. -[1919.22 --> 1920.52] I'm a deacon in the church. -[1921.28 --> 1924.82] We continue our worship with the giving of our gifts. -[1925.18 --> 1930.40] First of all, to the budget, which covers the administration of the church and its ministries, -[1930.92 --> 1935.42] and the special offering, which is Seeds of Hope Children's Ministry. -[1935.42 --> 1945.20] It was started in 1995 by an Abbotsford couple, Reverend John and Susan Chakias, -[1945.50 --> 1951.14] after seeing the plight of children orphaned because of AIDS in Africa. -[1951.92 --> 1960.46] In 1996, Seeds of Hope Children's Ministry opened the first home for HIV-AIDS-infected children in Thailand. -[1960.46 --> 1970.82] Also in Thailand, at Nu Reign, HIV-infected and affected women who had been cast out from their families and society -[1970.82 --> 1972.88] are able to live in a secure environment. -[1973.74 --> 1981.96] These women receive love and hope through the mentorship program, a comfortable and secure home, medical care, and life skills. -[1981.96 --> 1989.26] The goal is to empower the ladies to be able to one day safely integrate back into society. -[1990.18 --> 1996.06] Most importantly, the ladies get to experience the love and gospel of Jesus Christ. -[1996.80 --> 2003.70] Some of these women have children, and Rays of Hope provides for them as well by keeping the family together -[2003.70 --> 2006.96] and making sure the children get to go to school. -[2008.40 --> 2018.86] Seeds of Hope's biggest project is Grace Academy, a boarding school and home to over 170 orphaned children in Zambia. -[2019.76 --> 2028.00] Grace Academy, also known as the Place of Grace, is where children are given a loving home, medical care, and good nutrition, -[2028.00 --> 2036.96] which will break the cycle of poverty for the children by providing a high level of education and a mentoring program. -[2037.80 --> 2044.06] Children that suffer from AIDS are given antiviral medication to improve their chances for a healthier life. -[2044.70 --> 2051.28] The vision is to raise children to be the future leaders of their country and to impact their nation -[2051.28 --> 2055.66] with the grace and love of Christ, which they have also received. -[2055.66 --> 2060.72] We believe the way to do this is through education and opportunity. -[2061.82 --> 2067.70] Seeds of Hope also has orphanages in Myanmar, which is previously known as Burma. -[2068.50 --> 2069.60] Please give generously. -[2070.86 --> 2074.04] One person gives freely, yet gains even more. -[2074.78 --> 2077.94] Another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. -[2078.82 --> 2080.54] A generous person will prosper. -[2081.30 --> 2084.38] Whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. -[2084.38 --> 2087.90] Proverbs 11, 24, and 25. -[2089.74 --> 2093.94] Next week's offering is for the Budget and Diaconal Ministries Canada. -[2093.94 --> 2123.92] Thank you. -[2123.94 --> 2153.92] Thank you. -[2153.94 --> 2155.94] Thank you. -[2183.94 --> 2185.94] Thank you. -[2213.94 --> 2215.94] Thank you. -[2243.94 --> 2245.94] Thank you. -[2273.94 --> 2275.94] Thank you. -[2303.94 --> 2305.94] Thank you. -[2305.94 --> 2307.94] Thank you. -[2307.94 --> 2309.94] Thank you. -[2309.94 --> 2311.94] Thank you. -[2311.94 --> 2313.94] Thank you. -[2313.94 --> 2314.94] All right. -[2314.94 --> 2319.94] Kids are already up, but if you haven't come up and you are age 3 up to grade 4, come on -[2319.94 --> 2321.94] up. -[2321.94 --> 2325.46] I thought it looked kind of empty here, but there's lots of kids here, which is really -[2325.46 --> 2325.86] great. -[2329.36 --> 2336.22] So today we are going to go off to our large group and learn more about God and God's story -[2336.22 --> 2336.88] in the Bible. -[2337.50 --> 2343.00] Before we do that, though, let's take a minute to pray together and then we will do the blessing. -[2343.00 --> 2348.82] Lord God, thank you for this day and that we can come here to church, God, and that we -[2348.82 --> 2352.46] can learn more about you and your great love for us that never ends. -[2352.94 --> 2358.36] We pray that we would have open hearts and open ears to hear and learn today. -[2358.36 --> 2359.36] Amen. -[2359.36 --> 2360.36] Amen. -[2360.36 --> 2361.36] All right. -[2361.36 --> 2362.36] Let's stand up. -[2362.36 --> 2363.36] Ready? -[2363.36 --> 2365.36] The Lord has given me. -[2365.36 --> 2368.36] All the Spirit is ready. -[2368.36 --> 2369.36] The Lord has given me. -[2369.36 --> 2371.36] And we are going to come to our Lord. -[2371.36 --> 2374.36] And we are going to come to our Lord. -[2374.36 --> 2375.36] Amen. -[2375.36 --> 2376.36] Amen. -[2376.36 --> 2377.36] Amen. -[2377.36 --> 2378.36] Amen. -[2378.36 --> 2379.36] Amen. -[2379.36 --> 2381.36] Amen. -[2381.36 --> 2383.36] Amen. -[2383.36 --> 2384.36] Amen. -[2384.36 --> 2385.36] Amen. -[2385.36 --> 2386.36] Amen. -[2386.36 --> 2387.36] Amen. -[2387.36 --> 2388.34] Amen. -[2388.36 --> 2395.06] Good morning, everyone. My name's Eric. I'm an elder here at the church. -[2397.36 --> 2402.02] First I want to ask, how about those chairs? How are they? They're good? Not bad? -[2403.80 --> 2409.48] Spent about 10 minutes sitting down. The rest of the morning we've been standing up, but they're still kind of comfortable, so that's all good. -[2410.30 --> 2415.32] Just want to thank those who contributed to the chair fund to allow us to have these chairs here. -[2415.32 --> 2420.16] They're really nice, and they look great in here, so thank you for those who've done that. -[2421.66 --> 2425.00] Just a couple announcements before I get into the family prayer. -[2425.74 --> 2428.26] Some of you may be wondering where Pastor Chris is this morning. -[2430.96 --> 2437.34] He's in Abbotsford for the ordination of Ben Wimmers at Living Hope as the youth and family pastor there at that church. -[2437.82 --> 2442.24] He'll be working with Steve Birkenpass, who's an alumni of here, of Emmanuel. -[2442.24 --> 2450.24] We have just another announcement. We have an AGM congregational meeting coming up on November 23rd. -[2450.82 --> 2454.86] That's a Wednesday night, so we're encouraging everyone to come and be a part of that. -[2454.96 --> 2459.48] We're going to be talking a lot about the budget, so that would be good to have your input there. -[2460.30 --> 2464.48] Packages will be emailed out, but if you wanted printed coffee, please contact the office. -[2464.48 --> 2471.74] We have exciting news. Josh Chamberlain has been offered the position of the young adult, a ministry leader at the church, -[2471.74 --> 2477.82] so he successfully passed all the tests, and we offered him the job, so that's exciting. -[2481.32 --> 2486.72] We're excited to see what God has planned for you in this position over the months to come. -[2486.72 --> 2495.48] A couple of other things. For some of you who are not aware, Stacy, we got word, or the Klosterhoffs got word early this week -[2495.48 --> 2502.90] that Stacy's mom, Joan, had an aneurysm stroke this week, and she's not doing well, -[2503.04 --> 2509.58] so our prayers go out to them as they prepare to go there to see her in the days to come. -[2509.58 --> 2517.52] As well, we heard this morning from Kevin that Nikki and Jared's grandpa and Joan's dad passed away this week. -[2517.60 --> 2528.40] His name's Tony. He lives in Penticton. He's in his 80s, late 80s, so prayers go out to that family as well as they mourn the loss there. -[2529.94 --> 2533.80] Also, yesterday, if I know some of you were there at the Hanson funeral yesterday, -[2533.80 --> 2539.12] we want to pray for the Hanson family through these difficult times ahead as they lost a brother and a son, -[2539.12 --> 2545.50] a young man there, and he was an incredible man, so if you were there yesterday, that was quite something. -[2546.12 --> 2549.10] So, if I can lead you into family prayer now. -[2550.48 --> 2551.86] Dear God, thank you for this day. -[2553.58 --> 2558.40] Thank you for this time we have together to be in fellowship with one another and to also worship you. -[2559.54 --> 2563.00] As the leaves fall and the days get shorter and the days get cooler, -[2563.14 --> 2567.22] we are reminded of your faithfulness and steadfastness through the changing season. -[2567.22 --> 2572.92] It is a reminder that you are in control and we need to trust you for all things. -[2574.94 --> 2578.14] We thank you, Lord, for all the many blessings you have given us. -[2578.24 --> 2582.52] The gift of children, as we have seen here this morning, just a minute ago. -[2583.58 --> 2587.54] The gifts of work, holidays, friends, community, and health. -[2587.54 --> 2593.18] When we watch or hear the news, we can be thankful for living in this great country. -[2594.14 --> 2599.94] When you hear about what's going on around the world in places like Ukraine and Russia, China, and other countries, -[2600.02 --> 2601.82] we are thankful for this country, Canada. -[2603.82 --> 2608.30] As recessions and slowing economy predictions are starting to become more common, -[2608.30 --> 2612.30] we can be thankful that we can trust in you to help us wither the unpredictability. -[2613.92 --> 2617.62] We are thankful, Lord, that Josh Chamberlain is our new young adult ministry leader. -[2618.44 --> 2622.62] He's done great work here through you, Lord, in this ministry here at Emmanuel in the past, -[2622.68 --> 2626.64] and we are excited to see what your plan is for him in the days, weeks, and months to come. -[2626.64 --> 2632.62] We pray, Lord, for the handsome family this morning who shared with their community yesterday -[2632.62 --> 2635.22] the life of their wonderful brother and son, Aaron. -[2636.32 --> 2640.88] What a wonderful testament Aaron was to the joy and peace of following you -[2640.88 --> 2643.04] and the witness he was to those around him. -[2644.80 --> 2647.10] Lord, as none of us enjoy losing loved ones, -[2647.24 --> 2650.62] funerals are often a great way to reflect on what's really important in life. -[2651.98 --> 2655.22] At Aaron's funeral, it was clear that family, community, -[2655.22 --> 2658.08] and a life of following you is what is most important. -[2659.30 --> 2663.76] Chasing after material wealth or likes on social media or power at the end of the day -[2663.76 --> 2667.34] are little importance when you lose a friend and a loved one. -[2668.64 --> 2671.86] Lord, we ask that you would work in all of us through your Holy Spirit -[2671.86 --> 2674.24] that we will continually work to follow you more -[2674.24 --> 2677.84] and to live out your plan for us each and every day. -[2679.54 --> 2682.06] We pray, Lord, for the Klosterhof family this morning -[2682.06 --> 2685.14] as we heard that Stacey's mom had a stroke earlier this week. -[2686.10 --> 2687.98] This will be difficult for the family, Lord, -[2688.02 --> 2690.28] and we ask that you will give the family traveling mercies -[2690.28 --> 2692.20] as they plan to see Stacey's mom -[2692.20 --> 2696.06] and that they will feel your comforting presence through this difficult time. -[2697.46 --> 2701.64] And Lord, with the recent news of Joan's dad, Jared, and Nikki's grandpa -[2701.64 --> 2703.18] who passed away this week, Tony, -[2703.88 --> 2705.50] pray that you be close to them too, Lord, -[2705.56 --> 2710.56] as they work through and mourn the passing of a loved one. -[2710.56 --> 2715.62] Lord, I ask that this week you prepare our hearts, Lord, -[2715.72 --> 2718.32] for us celebrating Lord's Supper next Sunday. -[2719.02 --> 2720.80] Please prepare our hearts and minds -[2720.80 --> 2723.98] as we anticipate the sharing of the sacrament together as believers. -[2726.20 --> 2729.28] Lord, as many of us has much to be thankful for in this life, -[2729.38 --> 2731.78] all of us have things that are on our minds -[2731.78 --> 2735.48] and add stress, anxiety, or keep us awake at night. -[2736.38 --> 2738.86] It may be children that are making poor decisions, -[2739.08 --> 2740.90] choices, and are struggling in life. -[2741.54 --> 2743.70] It may be marriages that are on rocky ground. -[2744.66 --> 2747.60] It may be a conflict at work or employment challenges. -[2747.60 --> 2749.58] It may be loneliness. -[2750.88 --> 2752.60] It may be mental health struggles. -[2753.68 --> 2756.08] It may be difficult financial dynamics. -[2757.26 --> 2758.92] It may be physical ailments. -[2759.96 --> 2762.42] And it may just be the challenges of just getting older. -[2764.14 --> 2766.08] Whatever it is, Lord, we bring them all to you. -[2766.30 --> 2768.66] We can't make it through any of this without your support, -[2768.78 --> 2771.32] and we need you to walk beside us through these trials. -[2772.34 --> 2775.98] For those of us, Lord, who know a friend, a colleague, or neighbor -[2775.98 --> 2777.60] that is going through a difficult time, -[2777.70 --> 2779.24] please give us the words to say, -[2779.64 --> 2783.02] to have that shoulder for someone to lean on or cry on -[2783.02 --> 2786.44] or a hug to offer when it is needed. -[2787.90 --> 2789.48] Lord, help us to live in community -[2789.48 --> 2793.08] and help each other through challenging times. -[2794.78 --> 2798.22] Lord, in Philippians 4, 6-7, your words from Paul say, -[2798.36 --> 2799.84] Do not be anxious about anything, -[2800.18 --> 2802.94] but in every situation, by prayer and petition, -[2802.94 --> 2806.22] with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. -[2807.02 --> 2810.24] And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, -[2810.36 --> 2812.84] will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. -[2814.68 --> 2818.80] May your spirit continue to do its work in us this coming week. -[2819.50 --> 2821.42] Help us be a light for you in all we do, -[2821.60 --> 2824.08] and help us to glorify you in all our works and deeds. -[2825.00 --> 2826.52] We ask all this in Jesus' name. -[2826.86 --> 2827.08] Amen. -[2832.94 --> 2833.38] Amen. -[2848.26 --> 2850.28] It's good to be back with you all this morning. -[2850.52 --> 2856.24] It's been a difficult, fairly heavy last couple of weeks, hasn't it? -[2857.34 --> 2859.92] Personally, I think all of you heard a couple weeks ago -[2859.92 --> 2862.54] some youth leaders and I were in a fairly scary car accident -[2862.54 --> 2865.34] on the way to a youth leader's retreat. -[2866.12 --> 2868.86] We changed lanes to go around a vehicle that had overturned -[2868.86 --> 2871.18] and hit some black ice and fishtailed for quite a while -[2871.18 --> 2874.20] and then ended up upside down in a ditch on the side of the highway -[2874.20 --> 2876.82] on the connector between Merritt and Kelowna. -[2877.68 --> 2878.38] It got as good. -[2878.54 --> 2879.46] We all walked away. -[2879.72 --> 2880.86] Miraculously, to be honest, -[2880.96 --> 2882.92] only a couple scratches and a little bit of stiffness. -[2884.02 --> 2885.96] Then a week ago, last weekend, -[2885.96 --> 2888.58] many women here attended a very good, -[2888.68 --> 2890.52] but again, fairly intense weekend -[2890.52 --> 2893.04] at the Women's Fellowship Conference, -[2893.20 --> 2894.68] which was hosted by a number of women here. -[2895.62 --> 2897.56] Main topic of that weekend was grief. -[2897.74 --> 2899.84] And while every report I've heard -[2899.84 --> 2902.22] was how good of a weekend that was, -[2903.54 --> 2904.96] weekends like that and events like that -[2904.96 --> 2905.94] can certainly be heavy. -[2906.68 --> 2907.96] On top of those things, -[2908.64 --> 2911.78] yesterday I know many of us attended Aaron Hansen's funeral, -[2911.94 --> 2913.54] which Eric just alluded to -[2913.54 --> 2915.00] and prayed for a second ago. -[2915.00 --> 2916.42] It was a hard day -[2916.42 --> 2918.54] as we mourned and celebrated someone -[2918.54 --> 2920.24] who was taken at such a young age. -[2921.24 --> 2923.34] Yet the testimony shared yesterday were unbelievable -[2923.34 --> 2927.10] and Aaron's life truly reflected God's light in this world. -[2927.88 --> 2928.66] But it was still hard. -[2930.14 --> 2931.26] It also reminds me of the many -[2931.26 --> 2933.14] who are still grieving and mourning the loss -[2933.14 --> 2934.68] of other family members, -[2934.78 --> 2938.02] some passing away recently within the last days or weeks -[2938.02 --> 2940.54] and others passing away months ago, -[2940.70 --> 2941.50] even years ago. -[2941.50 --> 2945.46] Now, I just wanted to name that reality here today -[2945.46 --> 2947.84] because I know many of us are sitting in that. -[2948.84 --> 2951.82] I also want to acknowledge that when life is rocky, -[2952.24 --> 2953.90] we all want from a church service -[2953.90 --> 2956.92] some sort of nice and fluffy and light passage -[2956.92 --> 2959.74] that might just bring us a little bit of respite -[2959.74 --> 2961.22] from the difficulty of life. -[2961.56 --> 2962.72] And while that might make sense, -[2963.08 --> 2965.04] I also want to name something else right now. -[2965.04 --> 2969.08] As we continue through the psalms and our feelings, -[2969.46 --> 2974.80] today's psalm is not that light, fluffy, cheery Bible passage -[2974.80 --> 2976.78] some of us might be yearning for. -[2976.86 --> 2978.58] It's not jolly or merry. -[2978.68 --> 2980.30] Christmas is not quite here yet. -[2982.68 --> 2983.84] Now, sometimes we get the impression -[2983.84 --> 2986.28] that only psalms that sort of push through -[2986.28 --> 2987.72] the doom and gloom of this world -[2987.72 --> 2990.02] and end on this note of praise to our God -[2990.02 --> 2991.04] make it into the Bible. -[2991.04 --> 2993.96] But Psalm 88, the psalm we're going to read today, -[2994.22 --> 2995.82] flies in the face of that assumption. -[2997.02 --> 2999.38] Psalm 88 is called the Dark Psalm. -[3000.24 --> 3001.52] And it's called that for a reason. -[3001.84 --> 3003.98] So let's read it today and we'll see why. -[3004.52 --> 3005.68] So if you've got your Bibles in front of you, -[3005.74 --> 3006.64] please open those up. -[3006.72 --> 3007.58] Please turn on your phones, -[3007.68 --> 3008.74] read it on your Bible app, -[3009.08 --> 3009.92] whatever you have. -[3010.00 --> 3011.74] Please keep that open throughout this message. -[3012.26 --> 3015.28] And I hope that we will be able to find -[3015.28 --> 3017.80] the hope seen in this Dark Psalm today. -[3017.80 --> 3020.56] And for those of you that were hoping -[3020.56 --> 3021.72] for that light passage, -[3021.86 --> 3026.06] hoping for that cheery, happy Bible text today, -[3026.18 --> 3027.62] please do stay with me. -[3027.82 --> 3029.32] Because I do believe that the hope found -[3029.32 --> 3030.54] at the end of Psalm 88 -[3030.54 --> 3033.18] is going to be worth it for you today. -[3034.26 --> 3034.86] So Psalm 88, -[3035.54 --> 3037.12] please listen to the language -[3037.12 --> 3038.94] that the psalmist uses here. -[3040.68 --> 3042.84] Lord, you are the God who saves me. -[3043.22 --> 3045.36] Day and night I cry out to you. -[3045.36 --> 3048.06] May my prayer come before you. -[3048.40 --> 3050.24] Turn your ear to my cry. -[3051.12 --> 3053.00] I am overwhelmed with troubles -[3053.00 --> 3054.94] and my life draws near to death. -[3055.22 --> 3057.78] I am counted among those who go down to the pit. -[3058.12 --> 3060.44] I am like one without strength. -[3061.24 --> 3062.84] I am set apart with the dead, -[3062.92 --> 3065.26] like the slain who lie in the grave, -[3065.50 --> 3066.90] whom you remember no more, -[3067.48 --> 3069.04] who are cut off from your care. -[3070.46 --> 3072.88] You have put me in the lowest pit, -[3072.88 --> 3074.82] in the darkest depths. -[3075.66 --> 3077.94] Your wrath lies heavily on me. -[3078.58 --> 3081.02] You have overwhelmed me with all your waves. -[3081.12 --> 3083.48] You have taken from me my closest friends -[3083.48 --> 3086.02] and have made me repulsive to them. -[3087.02 --> 3089.16] I am confined and cannot escape. -[3089.30 --> 3091.50] My eyes are dim with grief. -[3091.50 --> 3094.98] I call to you, Lord. -[3095.04 --> 3097.06] Every day I spread out my hands to you. -[3097.10 --> 3098.82] Do you show your wonders to the dead? -[3098.90 --> 3101.24] Do their spirits rise up and praise you? -[3101.50 --> 3103.42] Is your love declared in the grave, -[3103.52 --> 3105.44] your faithfulness in destruction? -[3105.80 --> 3108.32] Are your wonders known in the place of darkness? -[3109.00 --> 3111.74] Or your righteous deeds in the land of oblivion? -[3114.24 --> 3116.22] But I cry to you for help, Lord. -[3116.38 --> 3119.26] In the morning, my prayer comes before you. -[3119.26 --> 3123.98] Why, Lord, do you reject me and hide your face from me? -[3125.22 --> 3128.54] From my youth I have suffered and been close to death. -[3129.16 --> 3131.96] I have borne your terrors and am in despair. -[3132.44 --> 3134.76] Your wrath has swept over me. -[3135.16 --> 3137.82] Your terrors have destroyed me. -[3139.02 --> 3141.62] All day long they surround me like a flood. -[3142.30 --> 3144.16] They have completely engulfed me. -[3145.16 --> 3148.24] You have taken from me friend and neighbor. -[3148.24 --> 3152.06] Darkness is my closest friend. -[3154.38 --> 3155.64] That is the word of the Lord. -[3157.86 --> 3160.18] There's not a lot of hope in those words, though, is there? -[3161.60 --> 3163.48] Listen to how the psalmist feels. -[3163.82 --> 3165.78] Verse 3, his soul is full of troubles. -[3165.90 --> 3167.46] His life draws near to death. -[3167.68 --> 3169.30] In the ESV and other translations, -[3169.76 --> 3171.68] he says he draws near to Sheol, -[3171.82 --> 3174.96] which in the Jewish tradition was sort of the underworld of darkness -[3174.96 --> 3176.26] that comes after death. -[3176.26 --> 3179.72] Verses 4 to 6, he says he's been put in the pit, -[3180.60 --> 3182.24] like one without strength, -[3183.24 --> 3185.24] like those who lie in a grave. -[3185.40 --> 3186.80] Verse 8, he feels shunned, -[3187.38 --> 3188.32] taken from friends, -[3188.44 --> 3190.62] made to be repulsive to them. -[3192.06 --> 3194.32] Verse 14, his soul feels cast away. -[3194.44 --> 3197.94] He feels rejected by the very God he is speaking to. -[3197.94 --> 3204.16] Verses 15 to 17, he feels like he's been suffering the wrath of God since his youth. -[3204.90 --> 3206.34] He is close to death. -[3207.14 --> 3208.72] Terrors have destroyed him. -[3209.78 --> 3214.78] He's been taken from his friends and his neighbors. -[3214.78 --> 3217.64] He is alone. -[3220.24 --> 3225.56] And verse 18 concludes with perhaps one of the most heartbreaking lines in all of Scripture. -[3226.70 --> 3233.12] After countless expressions of how alone and hurt and troubled and broken he is, -[3234.42 --> 3237.74] the psalmist doesn't end by turning to God in hope. -[3237.74 --> 3240.28] But he ends with the line, -[3240.50 --> 3242.14] darkness is my only friend. -[3244.00 --> 3246.36] His friends, his community, they've all abandoned him. -[3247.20 --> 3247.96] He blames God. -[3248.42 --> 3251.40] What's worse is that in his suffering, -[3251.56 --> 3253.40] God does not seem to be drawing close to him. -[3253.54 --> 3255.78] In fact, God appears to be painfully absent. -[3257.32 --> 3258.32] His closest companion, -[3260.32 --> 3261.96] darkness is his only friend. -[3261.96 --> 3266.22] Church, we have a word for this feeling. -[3268.00 --> 3268.48] Despair. -[3270.52 --> 3272.30] As the psalmist describes to us, -[3272.42 --> 3274.46] despair pulls us into isolation. -[3274.62 --> 3277.72] It makes us feel lonely or hollow inside. -[3278.90 --> 3281.38] But what I pray we will hopefully see today -[3281.38 --> 3283.52] is that when we are wallowing in despair, -[3284.08 --> 3285.98] when life is so overwhelming, -[3286.66 --> 3289.40] when we feel alone or we feel hopeless -[3289.40 --> 3292.14] or when we feel that darkness is our only friend, -[3293.48 --> 3296.10] only Jesus can enter into that hollowness -[3296.10 --> 3297.62] and truly draw us near. -[3298.86 --> 3300.72] When we are in the pit of despair, -[3301.58 --> 3305.34] only Jesus can enter into our hearts -[3305.34 --> 3306.24] and draw us close. -[3308.60 --> 3310.76] So let's have fun -[3310.76 --> 3312.98] and talk about despair for a second. -[3314.70 --> 3316.00] In Allender and Longman's book, -[3316.08 --> 3316.94] The Cry of the Soul, -[3317.02 --> 3318.76] which we've been using as a bit of a companion -[3318.76 --> 3319.84] along with the Psalms -[3319.84 --> 3321.38] as a guide for this sermon series, -[3321.88 --> 3323.12] they describe despair as this. -[3323.46 --> 3324.66] The passive cousin, -[3324.88 --> 3327.60] despair is the passive cousin of jealousy. -[3328.34 --> 3330.06] Both are triggered by abandonment, -[3330.12 --> 3332.70] which leads to a loss of hope and loneliness. -[3333.26 --> 3336.10] But while jealousy fights against the loss, -[3337.26 --> 3338.70] despair turns and runs. -[3339.70 --> 3341.28] It's a refusal to struggle, -[3342.46 --> 3343.98] deafening our hearts to the hope -[3343.98 --> 3345.14] that we will be rescued, -[3345.84 --> 3346.26] redeemed, -[3346.50 --> 3347.36] and happy. -[3347.36 --> 3349.76] Now further to that, -[3349.82 --> 3350.94] they go on to describe -[3350.94 --> 3352.52] a spectrum of feelings, -[3352.62 --> 3352.88] sort of, -[3352.92 --> 3354.10] that despair falls onto. -[3354.20 --> 3355.82] And that spectrum looks like this. -[3356.18 --> 3357.02] You've got regret, -[3357.78 --> 3358.14] sadness, -[3358.64 --> 3359.02] depression, -[3359.58 --> 3360.42] and then despair. -[3361.48 --> 3362.78] So when we regret something, -[3362.88 --> 3364.56] we acknowledge that we've lost something. -[3364.64 --> 3364.98] For example, -[3365.10 --> 3367.12] I regret not taking piano lessons. -[3367.92 --> 3368.14] Right? -[3368.24 --> 3368.90] When I was a kid, -[3368.94 --> 3370.38] I regret not taking piano lessons. -[3370.52 --> 3371.94] I listened to Megan here this morning -[3371.94 --> 3372.54] play piano, -[3372.58 --> 3373.42] and it brings me joy. -[3373.64 --> 3374.70] And I look back on my life, -[3374.70 --> 3374.96] and I think, -[3375.04 --> 3375.28] man, -[3375.44 --> 3376.98] probably should have taken piano lessons. -[3377.06 --> 3377.80] That would have been good. -[3378.46 --> 3379.64] I'm not sad, -[3379.72 --> 3380.26] necessarily. -[3380.98 --> 3382.60] I get that life's gone on, -[3382.64 --> 3383.86] and things filled up my life. -[3383.86 --> 3384.60] Instead of that, -[3385.30 --> 3387.34] but that's regret. -[3389.10 --> 3390.80] Sadness is the next step down. -[3390.90 --> 3391.22] Sadness, -[3391.28 --> 3393.10] we feel when things happen in our life -[3393.10 --> 3393.92] which are sad. -[3394.12 --> 3396.00] We are sad if someone lies to us, -[3396.08 --> 3397.36] sad if someone we are close to -[3397.36 --> 3398.42] moves away from us. -[3398.58 --> 3400.90] We're sad when we lose something important to us. -[3400.90 --> 3402.40] It's good to be sad -[3402.40 --> 3403.70] because when we feel it, -[3403.82 --> 3406.84] we feel sadness in moments of life -[3406.84 --> 3407.56] that are troublesome. -[3409.44 --> 3412.68] Depression is the next step on the spectrum. -[3413.42 --> 3415.86] Now, many people live with some form of depression. -[3416.82 --> 3418.32] Depression itself is a spectrum. -[3420.00 --> 3422.92] Now, I'm going to be oversimplifying -[3422.92 --> 3424.50] a very complex emotion here, -[3424.58 --> 3425.90] so please forgive me for that, -[3426.00 --> 3428.04] but depression is feeling sad -[3428.04 --> 3429.68] without a reason to feel sad. -[3429.68 --> 3432.96] If this were a sermon series on depression -[3432.96 --> 3434.20] or a sermon on depression, -[3434.26 --> 3435.40] we would go into this a lot more, -[3435.52 --> 3438.12] so please know I'm not being dismissive here, -[3438.44 --> 3440.50] and I'm not minimizing this difficult emotion. -[3440.62 --> 3441.66] Depression is very hard, -[3442.10 --> 3443.34] and people can live in depression -[3443.34 --> 3444.58] for a very long time, -[3444.84 --> 3446.50] but again, oversimplifying, -[3446.64 --> 3448.54] depression is this feeling of sadness -[3448.54 --> 3451.70] in seasons when there's nothing to be sad about -[3451.70 --> 3453.24] around you. -[3455.64 --> 3457.76] And then one step down from that is despair. -[3457.76 --> 3460.66] Despair is emptiness. -[3461.24 --> 3464.02] It's brokenness, loneliness, hopelessness. -[3465.24 --> 3468.54] People can and have learned to live with depression, -[3469.14 --> 3470.88] not so much with despair. -[3471.84 --> 3472.78] Despair is paralyzing. -[3472.92 --> 3475.74] It lives in both the head and the heart, -[3476.42 --> 3478.26] and it can drive us, -[3478.30 --> 3479.86] and often does drive us, -[3479.90 --> 3481.40] into intense isolation. -[3481.40 --> 3485.38] Now, despair is often experienced -[3485.38 --> 3487.02] because of the loss of relationship. -[3487.18 --> 3488.76] In Psalm 88, which we just read, -[3488.82 --> 3490.48] it was the abandonment of his friends, -[3490.76 --> 3491.94] his family, and his community, -[3492.02 --> 3492.86] and even his God -[3492.86 --> 3494.58] that brought him despair, -[3494.72 --> 3496.60] brought him into intense isolation -[3496.60 --> 3498.66] where darkness was his only friend. -[3498.74 --> 3501.52] Again, read verses 8 and 18 of this passage. -[3502.08 --> 3503.46] But that's why it's so important -[3503.46 --> 3504.64] to talk about this emotion, -[3504.64 --> 3506.30] because church, -[3506.54 --> 3509.66] we will likely all feel despair -[3509.66 --> 3511.10] at some point in our lives. -[3512.60 --> 3514.16] The loss of relationship -[3514.16 --> 3516.64] is a real threat to every one of us. -[3517.32 --> 3518.82] We all know people close to us -[3518.82 --> 3520.28] who have lost loved ones recently. -[3520.70 --> 3522.54] We attended Aaron's funeral yesterday, -[3522.86 --> 3524.62] parents' and siblings' funerals -[3524.62 --> 3526.46] within the last month or years. -[3526.60 --> 3528.62] We've read about those in our congregation -[3528.62 --> 3531.48] who are mourning the deaths of loved ones, -[3531.48 --> 3534.18] but it goes beyond death. -[3536.26 --> 3539.20] Divorce slices relationships in half. -[3540.70 --> 3541.94] Stubbornness and pride -[3541.94 --> 3545.20] splits families and friends for years, -[3545.46 --> 3546.30] even generations. -[3547.68 --> 3550.04] The cliche of sex, drugs, and alcohol -[3550.04 --> 3551.94] have ripped people from their homes -[3551.94 --> 3553.14] and plummeted others -[3553.14 --> 3555.02] far away from people who love them. -[3557.62 --> 3558.90] Despair finds its roots -[3558.90 --> 3560.32] when we lose relationships -[3560.32 --> 3561.48] with people we love, -[3561.52 --> 3563.14] no matter how we lose them. -[3565.48 --> 3566.84] And we have all, -[3567.40 --> 3568.18] or more accurately, -[3568.32 --> 3569.60] we will all experience -[3569.60 --> 3571.08] this loss of relationship -[3571.08 --> 3573.04] and the subsequent loss of hope -[3573.04 --> 3574.74] that can come from that. -[3575.28 --> 3576.88] Again, as Allender and Longman say, -[3577.16 --> 3578.02] some people attempt -[3578.02 --> 3579.32] to cover up their feelings -[3579.32 --> 3581.78] by muttering pious platitudes, -[3581.94 --> 3583.56] like, praise the Lord anyway, -[3583.80 --> 3585.70] or by shooing away sadness -[3585.70 --> 3587.70] through immersion -[3587.70 --> 3589.62] of the hectic busyness of life. -[3590.32 --> 3592.04] But every once in a while, -[3592.72 --> 3593.72] life catches us -[3593.72 --> 3595.44] and brings us face to face -[3595.44 --> 3596.12] with the reality, -[3596.28 --> 3597.72] and we feel what appears to be -[3597.72 --> 3599.74] an inconsolable sadness. -[3601.98 --> 3603.06] Despair is out there -[3603.06 --> 3604.76] and it's lurking for us. -[3604.86 --> 3605.92] The temptation of despair -[3605.92 --> 3607.80] is to move towards loneliness. -[3608.04 --> 3608.76] The psalmist says, -[3609.16 --> 3610.54] he was set apart with the dead -[3610.54 --> 3612.02] like the slain who lie in the grave. -[3612.24 --> 3613.98] He was remembered no more, -[3614.14 --> 3615.52] cut off from God's care. -[3615.74 --> 3616.54] He was confined. -[3616.66 --> 3617.60] He could not escape. -[3617.60 --> 3619.36] He was taken from his friends, -[3619.68 --> 3620.74] taken from his neighbors, -[3620.84 --> 3622.50] and he submitted to darkness -[3622.50 --> 3624.08] because that was his only friend. -[3626.84 --> 3628.08] Despair looks at the world -[3628.08 --> 3628.42] and says, -[3628.54 --> 3629.14] I am alone. -[3630.32 --> 3631.54] No one can help me. -[3631.64 --> 3632.92] No one cares about me. -[3632.96 --> 3633.22] It says, -[3633.42 --> 3634.40] I have no hope. -[3635.00 --> 3636.46] Things are not going to get better. -[3638.28 --> 3638.92] And because of this, -[3638.96 --> 3640.06] I must not allow myself -[3640.06 --> 3640.72] to hope again -[3640.72 --> 3641.88] because I will only -[3641.88 --> 3643.32] be bitterly disappointed. -[3643.32 --> 3646.16] loneliness becomes -[3646.16 --> 3647.00] the breeding ground -[3647.00 --> 3647.64] for despair. -[3650.08 --> 3651.58] And when we feel despair, -[3652.36 --> 3654.08] it is hard to feel -[3654.08 --> 3654.90] anything else. -[3656.74 --> 3657.70] And at its worst, -[3658.66 --> 3659.94] even what we know -[3659.94 --> 3660.84] to be true -[3660.84 --> 3663.36] often isn't enough -[3663.36 --> 3664.06] to mitigate -[3664.06 --> 3666.00] this crippling feeling. -[3668.32 --> 3669.80] But here's the shift -[3669.80 --> 3670.86] that is so important. -[3670.86 --> 3674.26] Even if what we know -[3674.26 --> 3675.22] to be true -[3675.22 --> 3676.30] isn't enough -[3676.30 --> 3676.82] to mitigate -[3676.82 --> 3678.04] the feeling of despair, -[3679.00 --> 3680.84] faith in Jesus Christ -[3680.84 --> 3682.44] allows him -[3682.44 --> 3683.40] to enter -[3683.40 --> 3684.58] into our despair -[3684.58 --> 3686.20] and reveal his hope -[3686.20 --> 3686.64] to us. -[3686.82 --> 3687.62] It becomes not -[3687.62 --> 3688.30] what we know -[3688.30 --> 3689.06] to be true -[3689.06 --> 3690.12] that will heal us, -[3690.26 --> 3692.12] but he who is truth -[3692.12 --> 3694.42] who comes to heal us. -[3694.82 --> 3695.76] That's the difference. -[3695.88 --> 3696.72] That's the shift here -[3696.72 --> 3697.66] because Jesus -[3697.66 --> 3698.58] is big enough. -[3698.58 --> 3700.20] If Jesus is big enough -[3700.20 --> 3701.84] to enter into our despair -[3701.84 --> 3702.72] because of this truth, -[3703.74 --> 3706.40] Jesus knows despair -[3706.40 --> 3707.44] like no other. -[3709.12 --> 3709.42] All right, -[3709.52 --> 3709.90] here we go. -[3711.06 --> 3711.94] John 11, -[3712.02 --> 3713.14] verses 1 to 44. -[3713.38 --> 3714.56] It's a story about Jesus -[3714.56 --> 3715.96] and his friend Lazarus. -[3717.64 --> 3718.62] Most Christians, -[3718.82 --> 3719.28] and in fact, -[3719.42 --> 3720.32] most non-Christians -[3720.32 --> 3721.16] know this story. -[3721.38 --> 3722.32] Lazarus gets sick -[3722.32 --> 3723.58] and he eventually dies -[3723.58 --> 3724.36] from this illness. -[3724.90 --> 3725.98] As many people know, -[3725.98 --> 3727.22] at the end of the story, -[3727.34 --> 3729.78] Jesus then raises Lazarus -[3729.78 --> 3730.56] from the dead. -[3730.64 --> 3731.86] But what also takes place -[3731.86 --> 3732.58] in this story -[3732.58 --> 3733.64] is the answer -[3733.64 --> 3735.48] to one of the most popular -[3735.48 --> 3736.80] pub trivia night questions -[3736.80 --> 3737.36] out there -[3737.36 --> 3738.78] that is told in bars -[3738.78 --> 3739.66] across the globe, -[3740.00 --> 3741.44] what is the shortest verse -[3741.44 --> 3742.10] in the Bible? -[3742.46 --> 3742.72] Anyone? -[3744.52 --> 3745.42] Jesus wept. -[3746.22 --> 3746.84] John 11, -[3747.62 --> 3748.28] verse 35. -[3749.22 --> 3750.20] Now here's a question -[3750.20 --> 3750.80] for you today. -[3750.80 --> 3754.50] Why would Jesus weep -[3754.50 --> 3756.16] when he knew -[3756.16 --> 3757.54] that he had the power -[3757.54 --> 3758.48] to resurrect people -[3758.48 --> 3759.08] from the dead -[3759.08 --> 3760.56] and was minutes away -[3760.56 --> 3761.34] from doing that? -[3763.50 --> 3764.48] Why didn't he just -[3764.48 --> 3765.76] crack his knuckles, -[3766.00 --> 3766.86] crick his neck, -[3767.00 --> 3767.64] shake it off, -[3767.70 --> 3768.32] look at the disciples -[3768.32 --> 3768.70] and say, -[3768.76 --> 3769.00] all right, -[3769.10 --> 3769.82] buckle up everyone, -[3770.14 --> 3770.68] watch this, -[3771.00 --> 3771.26] boom. -[3771.26 --> 3771.34] Boom. -[3775.94 --> 3777.18] Why would sadness -[3777.18 --> 3777.98] consume him -[3777.98 --> 3779.36] so much in that moment -[3779.36 --> 3781.54] that he would weep? -[3781.68 --> 3782.82] Not just cry, -[3783.32 --> 3784.26] but weep -[3784.26 --> 3786.38] when he knew -[3786.38 --> 3788.12] he was going to raise -[3788.12 --> 3789.20] Lazarus from the dead. -[3791.04 --> 3792.32] Because of one thing. -[3793.62 --> 3795.02] Jesus knew that death -[3795.02 --> 3795.94] was inevitable -[3795.94 --> 3797.42] in this fallen world -[3797.42 --> 3798.00] that we live in. -[3798.22 --> 3798.86] He understood -[3798.86 --> 3800.64] that though Lazarus -[3800.64 --> 3801.46] would be raised -[3801.46 --> 3802.06] from the dead -[3802.06 --> 3803.02] in mere moments, -[3804.12 --> 3804.90] Lazarus would also -[3804.90 --> 3805.50] die again. -[3807.58 --> 3808.10] Jesus wept -[3808.10 --> 3809.00] because he understood -[3809.00 --> 3810.10] that death was real, -[3810.18 --> 3811.22] that death severs -[3811.22 --> 3812.10] relationships, -[3812.28 --> 3813.44] that death brings -[3813.44 --> 3814.26] despair. -[3815.02 --> 3815.64] Jesus understood -[3815.64 --> 3816.80] that the emotions -[3816.80 --> 3817.78] death bring to people -[3817.78 --> 3818.50] and the magnitude -[3818.50 --> 3819.74] of despair in this world. -[3820.98 --> 3821.58] The fact is, -[3821.68 --> 3823.14] Jesus lived this reality -[3823.14 --> 3824.40] on the way to the cross too. -[3825.56 --> 3826.44] Before his death, -[3826.80 --> 3828.44] which was this horrific, -[3828.82 --> 3829.78] horrific death -[3829.78 --> 3830.98] involving physical -[3830.98 --> 3832.02] and emotional torture, -[3832.64 --> 3833.68] his best friends -[3833.68 --> 3834.90] would sever their relationships -[3834.90 --> 3835.70] from him as well. -[3836.58 --> 3837.50] In Matthew 26, -[3837.50 --> 3838.16] verse 38, -[3838.28 --> 3839.94] Jesus is in despair. -[3840.16 --> 3840.98] Listen to what he says -[3840.98 --> 3841.50] to his disciples. -[3841.64 --> 3841.88] He says, -[3842.22 --> 3844.10] my soul is overwhelmed -[3844.10 --> 3844.90] with sorrow -[3844.90 --> 3846.34] to the point of death. -[3847.54 --> 3848.90] That sounds like Psalm 88. -[3849.84 --> 3851.04] My soul is overwhelmed -[3851.04 --> 3851.70] with sorrow -[3851.70 --> 3852.62] to the point of death. -[3852.78 --> 3853.58] And then he asks them, -[3853.68 --> 3855.46] please stay here -[3855.46 --> 3857.28] and keep watch with me. -[3858.56 --> 3859.72] He asks his friends -[3859.72 --> 3860.90] to stay with him, -[3860.96 --> 3862.04] be present with me, -[3862.68 --> 3864.04] keep watch with me. -[3864.04 --> 3866.12] But his friends -[3866.12 --> 3866.82] couldn't do that. -[3868.12 --> 3870.04] They kept falling asleep. -[3871.14 --> 3872.04] In his despair, -[3872.48 --> 3873.10] they struggled -[3873.10 --> 3873.98] to be with him. -[3875.06 --> 3875.70] Worse than that, -[3876.04 --> 3877.00] Jesus gets arrested -[3877.00 --> 3877.92] moments later -[3877.92 --> 3879.48] and we read in Luke 22 -[3879.48 --> 3881.18] that his closest friends -[3881.18 --> 3883.86] denied that they ever knew him. -[3884.62 --> 3886.02] They denied any connections -[3886.02 --> 3887.08] to Jesus at all. -[3887.90 --> 3888.82] They just left him. -[3888.82 --> 3891.68] Jesus was abandoned -[3891.68 --> 3893.14] at the peak of his despair -[3893.14 --> 3894.38] by those who loved him most. -[3895.82 --> 3896.50] And church, -[3896.58 --> 3897.28] not only was Jesus -[3897.28 --> 3898.48] abandoned by his friends, -[3898.68 --> 3899.52] but he was abandoned -[3899.52 --> 3901.00] by God the Father as well. -[3901.18 --> 3901.84] On the cross, -[3902.22 --> 3903.40] after he had been beaten -[3903.40 --> 3904.52] and mocked -[3904.52 --> 3905.94] and he'd been abandoned -[3905.94 --> 3906.78] by his friends -[3906.78 --> 3907.40] and he's hanging -[3907.40 --> 3908.42] on this piece of wood, -[3908.78 --> 3910.00] nails in his hand, -[3910.56 --> 3911.90] pushing up on the nail -[3911.90 --> 3912.52] in his legs -[3912.52 --> 3913.32] to keep his lungs -[3913.32 --> 3914.12] from collapsing. -[3914.44 --> 3915.32] And at the very end -[3915.32 --> 3915.86] of his life, -[3916.06 --> 3917.08] with whatever energy -[3917.08 --> 3918.00] he has left, -[3918.00 --> 3919.02] he musters up -[3919.02 --> 3919.70] some strength, -[3920.10 --> 3920.80] whatever strength -[3920.80 --> 3922.22] is left in his mangled body -[3922.22 --> 3923.62] and he cries out -[3923.62 --> 3924.88] in a loud voice, -[3925.18 --> 3925.82] My God! -[3925.98 --> 3926.66] My God! -[3926.72 --> 3928.32] Why have you forsaken me? -[3931.66 --> 3932.74] My God! -[3932.92 --> 3933.62] My God! -[3934.04 --> 3936.30] Why have you abandoned me? -[3940.84 --> 3942.12] The psalmist today -[3942.12 --> 3943.40] felt like God -[3943.40 --> 3944.24] had abandoned him -[3944.24 --> 3945.22] in his despair. -[3945.70 --> 3946.80] But on the cross, -[3946.80 --> 3949.82] Jesus was abandoned -[3949.82 --> 3951.68] in his despair. -[3951.86 --> 3954.64] Jesus knew despair. -[3957.10 --> 3958.26] And better yet, -[3958.78 --> 3960.62] Jesus knows despair. -[3960.78 --> 3962.52] He knows despair, -[3962.66 --> 3963.32] present tense, -[3963.42 --> 3965.14] because that horrific death -[3965.14 --> 3965.84] on the cross -[3965.84 --> 3966.98] was not the end for him. -[3967.38 --> 3968.74] He knows despair -[3968.74 --> 3969.98] because he still lives. -[3970.34 --> 3971.32] He knows despair -[3971.32 --> 3972.54] because three days later, -[3972.86 --> 3974.28] Jesus rose from the dead, -[3974.28 --> 3975.94] he atoned for our sins, -[3976.10 --> 3977.70] he defeated sin and death -[3977.70 --> 3978.74] once and for all, -[3978.76 --> 3979.80] and now he sits in heaven -[3979.80 --> 3980.82] and he is currently -[3980.82 --> 3982.60] interceding for you -[3982.60 --> 3984.22] whenever you cry out to him -[3984.22 --> 3985.40] in your despair, -[3985.78 --> 3987.34] entering into whatever it is -[3987.34 --> 3988.28] you are going through -[3988.28 --> 3989.82] when asked. -[3990.44 --> 3991.06] See, Jesus, -[3991.22 --> 3992.46] he went through this pit -[3992.46 --> 3992.94] of despair -[3992.94 --> 3993.86] and he fulfilled -[3993.86 --> 3995.24] the redemption plan -[3995.24 --> 3996.44] that he had known -[3996.44 --> 3998.12] was necessary all along. -[3998.64 --> 3998.88] Jesus, -[3999.12 --> 3999.92] he didn't want to go -[3999.92 --> 4000.56] through all of that. -[4000.56 --> 4001.52] He didn't want -[4001.52 --> 4002.56] to have to die -[4002.56 --> 4003.26] in that way -[4003.26 --> 4004.00] to go through -[4004.00 --> 4005.16] that type of torture, -[4005.50 --> 4005.88] to go through -[4005.88 --> 4007.10] that type of despair. -[4007.42 --> 4008.66] Matthew 26, 39 -[4008.66 --> 4009.48] tells us that. -[4009.74 --> 4010.36] He asked God -[4010.36 --> 4011.64] to take that cup from him, -[4011.84 --> 4012.48] but he knew -[4012.48 --> 4013.28] that he had to. -[4013.86 --> 4014.96] He knew that he had -[4014.96 --> 4015.74] to endure it -[4015.74 --> 4016.74] because that kind -[4016.74 --> 4017.32] of suffering -[4017.32 --> 4018.68] he needed to go through -[4018.68 --> 4019.26] in order -[4019.26 --> 4021.68] for us to be saved. -[4022.60 --> 4024.24] He had to go through that -[4024.24 --> 4027.80] to save us. -[4028.46 --> 4029.52] He didn't want to, -[4029.52 --> 4031.24] but he willingly did it -[4031.24 --> 4032.26] for you and for me. -[4033.10 --> 4035.14] He went into the pits -[4035.14 --> 4036.00] of despair -[4036.00 --> 4038.32] so that he could enter -[4038.32 --> 4039.62] our despair with us. -[4040.68 --> 4042.34] See, Jesus knows despair -[4042.34 --> 4044.72] because Jesus conquered despair. -[4045.50 --> 4047.22] Jesus' cries of despair -[4047.22 --> 4047.92] on the cross -[4047.92 --> 4049.54] were a promise to us all -[4049.54 --> 4050.34] which transformed -[4050.34 --> 4051.30] all humanity -[4051.30 --> 4053.50] and all human suffering -[4053.50 --> 4055.16] for those who believe in him. -[4056.62 --> 4057.40] His death -[4057.40 --> 4058.84] was a down payment -[4058.84 --> 4059.54] on hope. -[4061.36 --> 4062.26] Jesus suffered -[4062.26 --> 4063.30] and so will we, -[4063.88 --> 4064.84] but he has been there -[4064.84 --> 4065.36] before us -[4065.36 --> 4066.50] and he waits for us -[4066.50 --> 4067.46] at the end of our sorrow. -[4067.78 --> 4069.20] He has been perfectly -[4069.20 --> 4071.18] resurrected -[4071.18 --> 4073.02] through his suffering -[4073.02 --> 4076.20] and so will we. -[4078.20 --> 4079.14] With Jesus, -[4079.28 --> 4080.32] all hopelessness -[4080.32 --> 4081.02] is lost. -[4082.42 --> 4083.20] With Jesus, -[4083.30 --> 4083.86] all hope -[4083.86 --> 4084.68] is found. -[4086.42 --> 4087.02] Despair then, -[4087.12 --> 4087.88] as hard -[4087.88 --> 4089.04] and as isolating -[4089.04 --> 4089.90] and as tragic -[4089.90 --> 4090.72] as it is, -[4092.18 --> 4093.20] despair can lead us -[4093.20 --> 4093.72] to Jesus. -[4093.94 --> 4094.80] Despair can break -[4094.80 --> 4096.08] the heart open enough -[4096.08 --> 4097.18] to let the hope -[4097.18 --> 4097.70] of Jesus -[4097.70 --> 4098.66] in. -[4098.66 --> 4101.22] When things are going -[4101.22 --> 4102.02] well in our lives, -[4102.10 --> 4103.10] we often put our hope -[4103.10 --> 4104.02] in earthly things, -[4104.14 --> 4104.26] right? -[4104.96 --> 4105.88] Especially people, -[4106.04 --> 4106.36] actually. -[4106.56 --> 4107.66] My marriage is good -[4107.66 --> 4108.72] or he or she -[4108.72 --> 4109.64] provides me the love -[4109.64 --> 4110.04] I need. -[4110.30 --> 4111.40] My friends are good. -[4111.48 --> 4112.42] They bring me fun -[4112.42 --> 4113.98] and joy in my life. -[4114.04 --> 4114.92] My family is good. -[4114.96 --> 4115.56] They care for me. -[4115.62 --> 4116.12] They make sure -[4116.12 --> 4117.20] that I am looked after. -[4117.26 --> 4118.40] Even my boss is good -[4118.40 --> 4119.42] because he provides me -[4119.42 --> 4120.32] or she provides me -[4120.32 --> 4121.74] the financial security -[4121.74 --> 4122.88] that I do. -[4123.00 --> 4123.56] And sometimes -[4123.56 --> 4124.44] when things aren't good, -[4124.50 --> 4126.06] we desire earthly hope -[4126.06 --> 4127.56] in the form of relationships. -[4127.56 --> 4128.52] Maybe sometimes -[4128.52 --> 4129.66] we long for that spouse. -[4129.76 --> 4129.98] We think, -[4130.06 --> 4130.90] oh, if I just had a spouse, -[4131.02 --> 4131.54] things would be better. -[4131.72 --> 4132.80] Or if I just had a kid, -[4133.10 --> 4133.70] things would be better. -[4133.76 --> 4134.72] If I just had a friend, -[4135.16 --> 4135.80] things would be better. -[4135.88 --> 4137.40] If I just had a better community, -[4137.72 --> 4138.48] I would be better. -[4138.82 --> 4139.98] But the problem is -[4139.98 --> 4141.22] those relationships, -[4141.42 --> 4142.14] whether we have them -[4142.14 --> 4142.90] or we seek them, -[4142.96 --> 4143.62] they break down. -[4145.38 --> 4146.28] And when they do, -[4146.42 --> 4148.50] our earthly hope dissipates. -[4150.62 --> 4151.66] And that's when despair -[4151.66 --> 4152.76] is lurking around the corner. -[4154.10 --> 4155.08] But hope in Jesus, -[4155.42 --> 4157.22] hope in Jesus' gospel truth, -[4157.22 --> 4158.40] hope in the understanding -[4158.40 --> 4159.52] that our Savior knows -[4159.52 --> 4160.32] what it means -[4160.32 --> 4161.64] to live in despair. -[4162.02 --> 4163.70] Hope in Jesus -[4163.70 --> 4165.66] goes past earthly hope. -[4166.74 --> 4167.84] And it points us -[4167.84 --> 4168.82] to an eternal hope. -[4170.56 --> 4171.90] Again, Allender and Longman, -[4171.94 --> 4172.48] they say this. -[4172.84 --> 4173.16] They say, -[4173.36 --> 4174.46] ungodly despair -[4174.46 --> 4176.62] is a flight from desire. -[4177.42 --> 4178.40] It is a refusal -[4178.40 --> 4179.66] to embrace loss -[4179.66 --> 4180.42] as a deepening -[4180.42 --> 4181.32] of the hollowness -[4181.32 --> 4182.42] that makes more room -[4182.42 --> 4182.90] for God. -[4182.90 --> 4185.26] Godly despair, -[4185.36 --> 4185.56] though, -[4185.84 --> 4187.10] cries out for perspective. -[4188.54 --> 4189.50] But it allows -[4189.50 --> 4191.54] the hollowness of loss -[4191.54 --> 4192.22] to move the heart -[4192.22 --> 4193.04] to seek God. -[4195.36 --> 4196.14] Godly despair -[4196.14 --> 4196.88] seeks God -[4196.88 --> 4197.88] in the midst of turmoil. -[4199.40 --> 4200.06] Questioning God -[4200.06 --> 4200.92] in the midst of despair -[4200.92 --> 4202.04] actually honors Him. -[4203.00 --> 4203.84] It turns our hearts -[4203.84 --> 4205.36] away from ungodly despair -[4205.36 --> 4206.84] and towards -[4206.84 --> 4208.04] a passionate desire -[4208.04 --> 4209.62] to comprehend God -[4209.62 --> 4210.66] and His actions -[4210.66 --> 4211.28] in our lives. -[4211.28 --> 4212.42] That's the beauty -[4212.42 --> 4213.40] of Psalm 88. -[4213.64 --> 4215.34] As dark as it is, -[4215.46 --> 4218.34] as hard as it is to read, -[4218.42 --> 4219.24] despite everything -[4219.24 --> 4220.44] that the psalmist is feeling, -[4221.60 --> 4222.82] he's crying out to God. -[4224.10 --> 4225.28] Even feeling as though -[4225.28 --> 4226.08] God has left him, -[4226.14 --> 4227.38] he starts the psalm with, -[4227.54 --> 4227.74] Lord, -[4227.88 --> 4228.66] You are the God -[4228.66 --> 4229.42] who saves me. -[4230.44 --> 4231.26] Even if that is -[4231.26 --> 4232.14] simply an address, -[4233.60 --> 4234.84] he is still addressing God. -[4237.54 --> 4238.76] When we turn to God -[4238.76 --> 4239.18] in despair, -[4239.18 --> 4240.04] when we cry -[4240.04 --> 4241.24] to the only being -[4241.24 --> 4242.32] who can fill -[4242.32 --> 4243.06] the hollowness -[4243.06 --> 4244.06] left in our hearts, -[4245.06 --> 4247.70] when we do that, -[4247.74 --> 4248.72] we see this theme -[4248.72 --> 4250.30] of hope -[4250.30 --> 4251.62] enter our lives. -[4251.86 --> 4252.52] We actually see -[4252.52 --> 4253.36] this theme -[4253.36 --> 4254.02] throughout Scripture -[4254.02 --> 4254.92] time and time again. -[4255.18 --> 4256.24] You see it elsewhere -[4256.24 --> 4256.78] in the psalm, -[4256.86 --> 4257.48] Psalm 77, -[4257.72 --> 4258.74] I cried out to God -[4258.74 --> 4259.14] for help. -[4259.38 --> 4260.44] I cried out to the God -[4260.44 --> 4260.86] to hear me. -[4260.92 --> 4261.64] When I was in distress, -[4261.76 --> 4262.60] I sought the Lord. -[4262.84 --> 4263.18] At night, -[4263.18 --> 4264.00] I stretched out -[4264.00 --> 4265.10] on tiring hands. -[4265.80 --> 4266.20] Psalm 30, -[4266.32 --> 4266.70] David says, -[4266.78 --> 4267.42] To you, Lord, -[4267.42 --> 4268.14] I called out. -[4268.52 --> 4269.10] To the Lord, -[4269.18 --> 4270.00] I cried for mercy. -[4270.14 --> 4270.78] Hear, Lord, -[4270.84 --> 4272.00] and be merciful to me. -[4272.10 --> 4272.40] Lord, -[4272.64 --> 4273.50] be my help. -[4274.22 --> 4274.70] You see it -[4274.70 --> 4275.34] with the prophets, -[4276.34 --> 4277.12] the entire book -[4277.12 --> 4277.72] of Jeremiah. -[4278.64 --> 4278.98] You see it -[4278.98 --> 4279.92] with the prophet Ezekiel. -[4280.00 --> 4280.36] You see it -[4280.36 --> 4281.38] with the prophet Hosea. -[4282.26 --> 4282.68] And of course, -[4282.72 --> 4283.24] we see it -[4283.24 --> 4284.54] in Jesus, -[4284.66 --> 4285.12] as mentioned, -[4285.20 --> 4285.82] in his life -[4285.82 --> 4286.80] and his death -[4286.80 --> 4287.78] and his resurrection. -[4289.16 --> 4289.70] When we turn -[4289.70 --> 4290.56] to God in despair, -[4290.68 --> 4291.36] he is there. -[4292.06 --> 4292.66] Our Savior -[4292.66 --> 4293.38] is there. -[4294.16 --> 4294.28] Now, -[4294.28 --> 4294.70] maybe we need -[4294.70 --> 4295.26] to pray like -[4295.26 --> 4295.94] the psalmist -[4295.94 --> 4296.62] in Psalm 88. -[4296.72 --> 4297.24] Maybe we just need -[4297.24 --> 4298.04] to cry out -[4298.04 --> 4299.22] and demand -[4299.22 --> 4300.08] God's attention. -[4301.48 --> 4302.82] But Jesus is there. -[4303.86 --> 4304.52] And he fills -[4304.52 --> 4305.26] that place -[4305.26 --> 4305.98] with his presence. -[4307.74 --> 4308.82] There are so many -[4308.82 --> 4309.92] stories in our world -[4309.92 --> 4310.46] of this truth. -[4310.60 --> 4312.00] We see broken people -[4312.00 --> 4313.40] in the pit of despair -[4313.40 --> 4314.22] turning to Jesus -[4314.22 --> 4315.06] at the last resort. -[4315.34 --> 4316.06] And what happens? -[4317.08 --> 4317.66] They meet him. -[4318.86 --> 4319.92] They meet him. -[4321.68 --> 4322.46] If you've spent -[4322.46 --> 4323.08] any time -[4323.08 --> 4323.88] at Gateway of Hope -[4323.88 --> 4324.40] down the road -[4324.40 --> 4325.56] or Union Gospel Mission -[4325.56 --> 4326.14] in Vancouver -[4326.14 --> 4327.52] or Night Shift -[4327.52 --> 4328.12] in Surrey, -[4329.16 --> 4330.26] you hear stories -[4330.26 --> 4330.64] like that -[4330.64 --> 4331.62] over and over again. -[4332.56 --> 4333.36] I just had the pleasure -[4333.36 --> 4334.26] of chatting with Uriel -[4334.26 --> 4335.30] and Jody Gonzalez -[4335.30 --> 4336.02] down in Mexico. -[4336.64 --> 4338.06] Uriel runs a rehab, -[4338.22 --> 4339.02] a transition house, -[4339.10 --> 4339.22] sorry, -[4339.32 --> 4340.72] for rehabilitating men. -[4341.10 --> 4342.12] And he's got story -[4342.12 --> 4342.92] after story -[4342.92 --> 4343.66] after story -[4343.66 --> 4345.54] of these broken men -[4345.54 --> 4346.72] in the pits of despair -[4346.72 --> 4348.24] asking Jesus -[4348.24 --> 4348.90] to enter in. -[4349.00 --> 4349.72] And he does. -[4349.72 --> 4350.72] He does. -[4353.88 --> 4354.80] Jesus enters in -[4354.80 --> 4355.28] and people are -[4355.28 --> 4356.08] turning to him. -[4359.08 --> 4359.84] The testimony -[4359.84 --> 4360.88] from the Hanson family -[4360.88 --> 4362.16] yesterday afternoon -[4362.16 --> 4362.90] at Aaron's funeral -[4362.90 --> 4363.96] speaks to this truth too. -[4364.88 --> 4365.54] If you were there -[4365.54 --> 4366.28] or you followed them -[4366.28 --> 4366.66] online, -[4366.72 --> 4367.44] you saw the posts -[4367.44 --> 4367.92] from them, -[4368.70 --> 4369.46] you see the hope -[4369.46 --> 4370.26] they have in Jesus. -[4370.84 --> 4371.58] Even in the midst -[4371.58 --> 4372.28] of this despair -[4372.28 --> 4373.10] that they're going through. -[4373.74 --> 4374.68] You see the testimony -[4374.68 --> 4375.82] of Aaron's life. -[4376.92 --> 4377.92] You heard the gospel -[4377.92 --> 4379.12] preached over and over -[4379.12 --> 4380.44] and over and over again -[4380.44 --> 4380.96] yesterday -[4380.96 --> 4382.28] after his death. -[4382.40 --> 4382.70] Jesus -[4382.70 --> 4385.06] was with them -[4385.06 --> 4387.08] and the people there -[4387.08 --> 4387.70] at that funeral -[4387.70 --> 4388.70] were turning to him. -[4390.24 --> 4390.82] It doesn't mean -[4390.82 --> 4391.86] it's easy. -[4392.78 --> 4393.18] The Hansons -[4393.18 --> 4394.26] are still heartbroken. -[4396.02 --> 4396.46] But Jesus -[4396.46 --> 4397.50] is filling them up -[4397.50 --> 4398.60] because it is Jesus -[4398.60 --> 4399.60] who enters in -[4399.60 --> 4400.74] to that despair. -[4403.72 --> 4404.64] I'm going to conclude -[4404.64 --> 4405.02] right here -[4405.02 --> 4405.62] with just a couple -[4405.62 --> 4406.52] of final thoughts. -[4406.82 --> 4407.34] Just a couple -[4407.34 --> 4408.26] of maybe take-homes -[4408.26 --> 4408.74] today. -[4409.90 --> 4410.36] We're going to start -[4410.36 --> 4410.92] with this one. -[4412.62 --> 4413.40] Some of you, -[4413.86 --> 4415.10] perhaps even many of you -[4415.10 --> 4415.92] listening today, -[4416.04 --> 4417.24] you might not find -[4417.24 --> 4418.36] yourself in this place -[4418.36 --> 4418.80] right now, -[4418.86 --> 4420.06] in this place of despair. -[4420.64 --> 4421.64] You might not be there. -[4422.80 --> 4423.30] And that's good. -[4425.14 --> 4426.16] But I would almost -[4426.16 --> 4426.68] guarantee -[4426.68 --> 4428.12] that everyone -[4428.12 --> 4429.02] is an arm's length -[4429.02 --> 4429.90] away from someone -[4429.90 --> 4430.38] who is. -[4431.98 --> 4433.24] So how do we then -[4433.24 --> 4433.90] help those -[4433.90 --> 4435.80] who are feeling -[4435.80 --> 4437.54] despair right now? -[4437.54 --> 4439.40] And the answer -[4439.40 --> 4440.32] is to be like Jesus. -[4440.44 --> 4441.40] The answer is to be -[4441.40 --> 4442.86] present with them. -[4442.96 --> 4443.84] Know that you are -[4443.84 --> 4444.48] not Jesus. -[4444.68 --> 4445.86] You cannot cure them -[4445.86 --> 4446.90] of their despair. -[4447.00 --> 4447.62] You're not called to. -[4447.66 --> 4448.46] You're not called -[4448.46 --> 4449.84] to cure that feeling. -[4450.38 --> 4451.28] But we do need -[4451.28 --> 4451.92] to be as hands -[4451.92 --> 4452.66] and feet there. -[4453.22 --> 4454.38] So enter into -[4454.38 --> 4455.10] that despair -[4455.10 --> 4455.60] with them. -[4456.36 --> 4457.50] That's what Jesus does. -[4457.56 --> 4457.92] That's what we're -[4457.92 --> 4458.48] called to do. -[4458.72 --> 4459.42] Be present. -[4459.90 --> 4460.84] Enter into the way -[4460.84 --> 4461.50] that they feel. -[4461.92 --> 4462.66] Weep with them. -[4463.84 --> 4464.70] Sit with them. -[4464.86 --> 4465.72] Be with them. -[4466.12 --> 4467.00] Speak the truth -[4467.00 --> 4467.80] with them. -[4468.66 --> 4469.34] Be Jesus -[4469.34 --> 4470.78] for them. -[4472.94 --> 4473.36] Sometimes -[4473.36 --> 4474.42] well-meaning Christians -[4474.42 --> 4475.28] will say to those -[4475.28 --> 4475.62] struggling, -[4476.10 --> 4477.00] the classic platitude, -[4477.14 --> 4477.80] God won't give you -[4477.80 --> 4478.80] more than you can handle. -[4479.22 --> 4480.04] But that's bunk. -[4480.36 --> 4481.78] That is not -[4481.78 --> 4482.76] how that passage -[4482.76 --> 4484.10] in 1 Corinthians 10-13 -[4484.10 --> 4484.44] goes. -[4484.74 --> 4485.58] Read that again with me. -[4485.62 --> 4486.22] Maybe it's on the screen. -[4486.28 --> 4487.08] I don't know if I put it up there. -[4487.32 --> 4487.96] But it says this, -[4488.22 --> 4489.40] And God is faithful. -[4489.58 --> 4490.36] He will not let you -[4490.36 --> 4490.90] be tempted -[4490.90 --> 4492.08] beyond what you can hear, -[4492.70 --> 4493.62] beyond what you can bear. -[4493.62 --> 4495.82] But when you are tempted, -[4495.94 --> 4496.94] He will provide a way out -[4496.94 --> 4497.64] so that you can endure it. -[4497.66 --> 4498.78] That's the text people quote -[4498.78 --> 4499.22] when they say, -[4499.28 --> 4499.96] God won't give you more -[4499.96 --> 4500.86] than you can handle. -[4501.02 --> 4502.34] That's a text about temptation. -[4503.02 --> 4504.40] That's not a text about trials. -[4506.92 --> 4508.14] There are and there will be -[4508.14 --> 4509.76] many, many times -[4509.76 --> 4511.00] and many, many trials -[4511.00 --> 4512.46] that happen in our lives -[4512.46 --> 4513.82] that we can't handle. -[4515.92 --> 4516.74] But there's nothing -[4516.74 --> 4517.56] that Jesus can't. -[4517.56 --> 4520.10] So plenty will happen -[4520.10 --> 4521.36] to people that they can't handle. -[4521.42 --> 4521.96] And our calling -[4521.96 --> 4523.14] is not to attempt -[4523.14 --> 4524.10] to cure them -[4524.10 --> 4525.00] with platitudes, -[4525.46 --> 4526.96] but to enter into that despair -[4526.96 --> 4527.76] as Jesus does. -[4529.10 --> 4530.84] If the temptation of despair -[4530.84 --> 4532.08] is to move people -[4532.08 --> 4533.16] towards isolation, -[4533.50 --> 4534.28] to move people -[4534.28 --> 4535.10] towards loneliness, -[4535.92 --> 4537.38] we need to be present -[4537.38 --> 4537.76] with them -[4537.76 --> 4539.28] so that they don't feel alone, -[4539.64 --> 4540.56] so that they know -[4540.56 --> 4541.46] they are not alone. -[4541.46 --> 4546.34] Finally, -[4546.72 --> 4547.84] for any of you -[4547.84 --> 4548.48] who feels as though -[4548.48 --> 4549.10] you might be living -[4549.10 --> 4550.16] in despair right now, -[4550.42 --> 4551.34] I want to encourage you -[4551.34 --> 4552.00] with three things. -[4552.90 --> 4553.92] The first is this. -[4555.14 --> 4556.00] Please, please -[4556.00 --> 4557.00] reach out to someone. -[4557.60 --> 4558.44] Find someone -[4558.44 --> 4559.42] you can talk to. -[4559.70 --> 4560.30] Maybe it's me, -[4560.40 --> 4561.32] maybe it's Pastor Chris, -[4561.40 --> 4562.22] maybe it's your elder, -[4562.62 --> 4563.44] maybe it's a mentor -[4563.44 --> 4564.50] or a different leader, -[4564.62 --> 4565.46] maybe it's a friend -[4565.46 --> 4566.74] that you know really well, -[4566.82 --> 4567.52] maybe it's a friend -[4567.52 --> 4568.60] that you haven't been -[4568.60 --> 4569.60] very vulnerable with -[4569.60 --> 4570.20] for a while. -[4570.82 --> 4571.38] Or maybe, -[4571.46 --> 4572.20] it's actually someone -[4572.20 --> 4572.90] that you've observed -[4572.90 --> 4573.58] from afar. -[4575.02 --> 4575.84] But you know -[4575.84 --> 4576.50] that they could help -[4576.50 --> 4577.46] enter into this season -[4577.46 --> 4577.90] with you. -[4578.80 --> 4579.60] Whoever that is, -[4579.70 --> 4580.54] please don't delay. -[4581.18 --> 4582.50] Don't hide in isolation. -[4582.72 --> 4584.28] Don't run to the darkness. -[4586.14 --> 4586.94] Find someone -[4586.94 --> 4587.90] and speak to them -[4587.90 --> 4588.72] about what you're feeling. -[4588.88 --> 4590.16] Ask them to be present -[4590.16 --> 4590.74] with you. -[4590.84 --> 4591.44] Talk to them. -[4592.00 --> 4592.62] Sit with them. -[4593.60 --> 4594.00] And again, -[4594.08 --> 4594.82] to that point, church, -[4594.86 --> 4595.52] if someone comes -[4595.52 --> 4596.08] and talks to you -[4596.08 --> 4596.80] about how they're feeling -[4596.80 --> 4597.24] this week, -[4597.28 --> 4598.36] or any week for that matter, -[4599.20 --> 4600.16] please enter into that -[4600.16 --> 4600.52] with them. -[4601.46 --> 4602.66] Be vulnerable and present. -[4602.80 --> 4603.52] Pray with them. -[4604.96 --> 4605.56] Which that segues -[4605.56 --> 4606.44] to our second point. -[4607.74 --> 4608.10] Second, -[4608.18 --> 4609.46] if you're feeling despair today, -[4609.96 --> 4611.56] please receive prayer. -[4612.48 --> 4613.18] There's many ways -[4613.18 --> 4613.68] you can do that, -[4613.74 --> 4614.32] but today there's -[4614.32 --> 4615.08] a specific way. -[4615.12 --> 4615.60] There's going to actually -[4615.60 --> 4616.62] be elders available -[4616.62 --> 4617.80] pretty quick -[4617.80 --> 4619.32] after the service. -[4619.42 --> 4620.36] And if you feel so led, -[4620.40 --> 4621.88] if Jesus has stirred -[4621.88 --> 4622.96] in your heart this morning, -[4623.02 --> 4624.52] I want to encourage you today -[4624.52 --> 4625.96] to go up to one of our elders -[4625.96 --> 4626.56] for prayer. -[4626.56 --> 4628.46] So they're actually, -[4628.54 --> 4628.90] they're going to make -[4628.90 --> 4629.56] their way to those spots -[4629.56 --> 4629.88] right now. -[4629.94 --> 4630.32] So there's going to be -[4630.32 --> 4631.50] an elder in this corner here, -[4631.52 --> 4631.98] and there's going to be -[4631.98 --> 4632.60] an elder over there -[4632.60 --> 4633.18] in the back corner. -[4633.24 --> 4633.50] There's going to be -[4633.50 --> 4634.06] another elder -[4634.06 --> 4635.52] in the multi-purpose room, -[4635.58 --> 4636.34] kind of in the back -[4636.34 --> 4637.54] to the right there -[4637.54 --> 4638.00] in the hallway. -[4638.56 --> 4639.66] And I encourage you, -[4639.76 --> 4640.20] please, -[4641.20 --> 4643.22] please seek them out. -[4643.56 --> 4644.24] Allow them to pray -[4644.24 --> 4644.84] for you today. -[4645.58 --> 4646.64] They're available right now, -[4646.72 --> 4648.02] during the last couple songs -[4648.02 --> 4648.50] we're going to sing -[4648.50 --> 4648.88] in a moment, -[4649.02 --> 4650.04] and then after the service -[4650.04 --> 4650.46] as well. -[4650.46 --> 4653.12] I know that some of us -[4653.12 --> 4654.18] are feeling in despair -[4654.18 --> 4654.70] right now. -[4654.92 --> 4656.12] Allow the body of Christ -[4656.12 --> 4656.72] to lift you up. -[4656.76 --> 4657.22] And finally, -[4657.32 --> 4657.86] and really quickly, -[4658.48 --> 4659.78] in the midst of everything -[4659.78 --> 4660.82] you might be going through -[4660.82 --> 4661.34] right now, -[4661.98 --> 4662.78] please seek out -[4662.78 --> 4663.60] your eternal hope. -[4664.00 --> 4665.22] Find that hope in Jesus -[4665.22 --> 4666.74] who knows what despair -[4666.74 --> 4667.38] looks like. -[4668.40 --> 4669.16] Through our sadness -[4669.16 --> 4669.68] and despair, -[4669.80 --> 4670.54] we learn something -[4670.54 --> 4671.36] about the heart -[4671.36 --> 4672.26] of our Lord, -[4672.36 --> 4673.50] and when we connect -[4673.50 --> 4674.64] our despair to Christ, -[4674.72 --> 4675.34] when we seek -[4675.34 --> 4676.78] and cry out to God, -[4677.90 --> 4678.88] we can trust -[4678.88 --> 4679.38] He will enter -[4679.38 --> 4680.14] into our despair. -[4680.46 --> 4681.28] He helps us out -[4681.28 --> 4681.80] of the pit. -[4683.48 --> 4684.26] And so in this way, -[4685.08 --> 4686.26] let despair catapult us, -[4686.32 --> 4687.78] not into the dark abyss, -[4688.44 --> 4689.84] but into the bright presence -[4689.84 --> 4691.54] of God. -[4691.98 --> 4692.24] Amen? -[4693.24 --> 4693.90] Let me pray. -[4694.26 --> 4694.84] Father God, -[4696.12 --> 4697.10] in a world -[4697.10 --> 4698.36] where so much happens, -[4699.76 --> 4700.92] in a world where, -[4701.12 --> 4701.20] sure, -[4701.30 --> 4702.28] we experience good, -[4702.68 --> 4703.44] but we also -[4703.44 --> 4704.84] experience hardship, -[4705.98 --> 4706.24] Lord, -[4706.32 --> 4706.86] when the loss -[4706.86 --> 4707.54] of relationship -[4707.54 --> 4707.86] or, -[4709.10 --> 4709.90] when the loss -[4709.90 --> 4710.46] of relationship -[4710.46 --> 4710.98] brings us -[4710.98 --> 4711.54] into the pits -[4711.54 --> 4712.00] of despair, -[4712.12 --> 4712.38] God, -[4713.02 --> 4713.76] may we not -[4713.76 --> 4715.46] turn to loneliness. -[4715.96 --> 4716.88] May we not run -[4716.88 --> 4717.90] to isolation -[4717.90 --> 4719.08] or seek out darkness -[4719.08 --> 4719.74] as our friend. -[4720.96 --> 4721.16] God, -[4721.20 --> 4721.96] may we cry out -[4721.96 --> 4722.36] to you. -[4723.50 --> 4723.74] Jesus, -[4723.86 --> 4724.50] may you enter -[4724.50 --> 4725.44] into the hearts -[4725.44 --> 4726.52] of anyone today -[4726.52 --> 4727.96] who is feeling despair. -[4729.64 --> 4731.16] May your glory shine, -[4731.64 --> 4732.88] and may you fill them up. -[4733.08 --> 4733.36] And Lord, -[4733.40 --> 4734.42] may you be with them -[4734.42 --> 4735.94] as they go through -[4735.94 --> 4736.62] this hard -[4736.62 --> 4738.00] and difficult emotion. -[4738.64 --> 4738.84] And Lord, -[4738.88 --> 4739.50] as the church, -[4739.62 --> 4740.82] may we be your hands -[4740.82 --> 4741.22] and feet -[4741.22 --> 4742.04] in the lives -[4742.04 --> 4742.72] of those struggling -[4742.72 --> 4743.72] with despair right now. -[4744.32 --> 4744.98] May we enter -[4744.98 --> 4747.20] into that situation -[4747.20 --> 4749.08] and be your presence there. -[4750.94 --> 4751.36] God, -[4751.40 --> 4752.02] we know you live. -[4753.46 --> 4754.36] May we praise you -[4754.36 --> 4757.40] in the light, -[4758.24 --> 4759.36] and may we praise you -[4759.36 --> 4759.92] in the darkness. -[4760.40 --> 4760.92] In your name, -[4761.40 --> 4761.60] Amen. -[4761.60 --> 4761.70] Amen. -[4761.70 --> 4761.74] Amen. -[4761.74 --> 4761.76] Amen. -[4761.76 --> 4761.80] Amen. -[4761.80 --> 4761.84] Amen. -[4761.84 --> 4761.88] Amen. -[4766.62 --> 4767.62] Amen. -[4796.62 --> 4798.62] Amen. -[4822.66 --> 4823.00] Amen. -[4823.18 --> 4823.46] Amen. -[4823.46 --> 4827.46] Oh, you are so lonely -[4827.46 --> 4833.46] Oh, you save me -[4833.46 --> 4837.46] Let my help raise you -[4837.46 --> 4841.46] Oh, you take from me -[4841.46 --> 4844.46] Though I will bless your name -[4844.46 --> 4848.46] Though you will be -[4848.46 --> 4852.46] Still I will worship -[4852.46 --> 4854.46] To sing a song -[4854.46 --> 4858.46] To the Lord I need -[4858.46 --> 4867.46] My heart's flesh may fail -[4867.46 --> 4871.46] The earth below His way -[4871.46 --> 4875.46] Let my eyes, my eyes -[4875.46 --> 4879.46] To sing a song -[4879.46 --> 4883.46] To the high of my feet -[4883.46 --> 4887.46] And hope the prayer of God's sake -[4887.46 --> 4891.46] That our love can reach you -[4891.46 --> 4895.46] Is working alone -[4895.46 --> 4899.46] Oh, you save me -[4899.46 --> 4903.46] Let my help raise you -[4903.46 --> 4907.46] Oh, you take from me -[4907.46 --> 4910.46] Though I will bless your name -[4910.46 --> 4913.46] Though you will be -[4913.46 --> 4915.46] To sing a song -[4915.46 --> 4917.46] To sing a song -[4917.46 --> 4919.46] To sing a song -[4919.46 --> 4921.46] To sing a song -[4921.46 --> 4923.46] To sing a song -[4923.46 --> 4925.46] To sing a song -[4925.46 --> 4927.46] To sing a song -[4927.46 --> 4929.46] To sing a song -[4929.46 --> 4931.46] To sing a song -[4931.46 --> 4933.46] To sing a song -[4933.46 --> 4935.46] To sing a song -[4935.46 --> 4937.46] To sing a song -[4937.46 --> 4941.46] And in the Lord -[4941.46 --> 4942.46] Oh, you're in the Lord -[4942.46 --> 4945.46] Oh, you're in the Lord -[4945.46 --> 4947.46] Oh, you're in the Lord -[4947.46 --> 4955.14] The One. -[4955.14 --> 4962.34] The One. -[4962.34 --> 4966.34] Oh, you can save me -[4966.34 --> 4969.34] Heaven and praise me -[4969.34 --> 4973.34] Heaven and take from me -[4973.34 --> 4977.34] I will bless you in me -[4977.34 --> 4981.34] Oh, you will look at me -[4981.34 --> 4985.34] This time I will bless you -[4985.34 --> 4990.34] Sing a song to the one who's above me -[4990.34 --> 4999.34] Sing a song to the one who's above me -[5006.34 --> 5010.34] And so, brothers and sisters in Christ, -[5010.34 --> 5012.34] as we leave this place today -[5012.34 --> 5015.34] After talking about the hard emotion of despair -[5015.34 --> 5017.34] May we know that our hope -[5017.34 --> 5020.34] Is in the one who's all we need -[5020.34 --> 5022.34] May we sing a song to the one who's all we need -[5022.34 --> 5025.34] May we lift up our prayers and our cries -[5025.34 --> 5027.34] To the one who's all we need -[5027.34 --> 5030.34] Because we know that our Savior and Redeemer lives -[5030.34 --> 5034.34] And our hope can be found in Him -[5034.34 --> 5036.34] And that hope is assured -[5036.34 --> 5038.34] So, may we go from this place -[5038.34 --> 5040.34] Whether we are feeling despair -[5040.34 --> 5043.34] Or whether we are helping those who are feeling despair -[5043.34 --> 5047.34] With the understanding that Jesus is all we need -[5047.34 --> 5050.34] Please hear this final blessing -[5050.34 --> 5053.34] The priestly blessing from number six -[5053.34 --> 5057.34] The Lord bless you and keep you -[5057.34 --> 5060.34] The Lord make His face shine upon you -[5060.34 --> 5062.34] And be gracious to you -[5062.34 --> 5064.34] The Lord turn His face toward you -[5064.34 --> 5067.34] And give you His peace -[5067.34 --> 5068.34] Peace -[5068.34 --> 5070.34] And all God's people said -[5070.34 --> 5071.34] Amen -[5071.34 --> 5072.34] Amen -[5073.34 --> 5074.34] Amen -[5074.34 --> 5076.34] Amen -[5076.34 --> 5077.34] Amen -[5077.34 --> 5092.34] Amen -[5092.34 --> 5097.34] I believe -[5097.34 --> 5102.34] I believe -[5102.34 --> 5107.34] I share this day -[5107.34 --> 5109.34] I share this day -[5109.34 --> 5112.34] I share this day -[5112.34 --> 5115.34] I believe -[5115.34 --> 5121.34] I believe -[5121.34 --> 5125.34] I raise the hand of -[5125.34 --> 5128.34] I love His power to the rain -[5128.34 --> 5132.34] I redeem the lips -[5132.34 --> 5136.34] I redeem the lips -[5136.34 --> 5140.34] I redeem the lips -[5140.34 --> 5146.34] I redeem the lips -[5146.34 --> 5150.34] I know He has been sold -[5150.34 --> 5153.34] His blood is covered by sin -[5153.34 --> 5156.34] I believe -[5156.34 --> 5161.34] I believe -[5161.34 --> 5163.34] I share this day -[5163.34 --> 5167.34] I blame his children -[5167.34 --> 5168.34] I believe -[5168.34 --> 5170.34] I believe -[5170.34 --> 5172.34] I believe -[5172.34 --> 5178.34] I raise the hand of God -[5178.34 --> 5182.34] I love His glory and faith -[5182.34 --> 5184.34] His glory and faith -[5184.34 --> 5185.34] I redeem the lips -[5185.34 --> 5187.34] I redeem the lips -[5187.34 --> 5190.34] I redeem the lips -[5190.34 --> 5193.34] I redeem the lips -[5193.34 --> 5195.34] I redeem the lips -[5195.34 --> 5203.98] i -[5212.70 --> 5223.02] hello -[5225.34 --> 5230.76] This is how I'm so proud to see your kingdom come. -[5230.76 --> 5246.76] My Redeemer, my Redeemer, my Redeemer, my Redeemer. -[5246.76 --> 5261.76] My Redeemer, my Redeemer, my Redeemer. -[5276.76 --> 5306.74] My Redeemer, my Redeemer, my Redeemer. -[5306.76 --> 5336.74] My Redeemer, my Redeemer. -[5336.76 --> 5366.74] My Redeemer, my Redeemer. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 1, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 1, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d77da788b8b2979d7b9ae495c0bc40218507cca2..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 1, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,94 +0,0 @@ -• Volunteer -• Salvation and redemption through Jesus Christ -• Overcoming darkness and despair -• God's power and guidance in times of need -• Trusting in Jesus as Savior and Lord -• Hope and faith in the midst of challenges and weaknesses -• Victory over adversity through Christ's love and strength -• The congregation sings a song about faith and forgiveness -• Deacon Brenda introduces herself and mentions the morning's offering, which will go towards the budget and refugee sponsorship program -• Peter Van Heusen gives an update on the refugee sponsorship committee, specifically mentioning the Niemer family and their efforts to sponsor them -• Discussion of refugees and asylum seekers, including a mention of the Armenians being displaced from Azerbaijan -• Peter shares about his meeting with a family who fled Afghanistan and are seeking to come to Canada -• He explains that the church can support people in need, particularly those feeling lonely or isolated after arriving in their new country -• A request for financial support is made, aiming to raise $35,000 to $40,000 -• Discussion of preferences for eating certain foods (e.g., banana, apple, cake) -• Introduction to children's worship time lesson on Cain and Abel -• Explanation that the lesson will focus on making choices from one's heart versus external appearances -• Prayer time in children's worship time -• Congregational prayer announcements -• Memorial announcement for Amanda's mother Thelma who passed away -• Announcement of upcoming Thanksgiving Day service and Lord's Supper -• Reflection and anticipation of communion -• Prayer for world leaders, freedom, and peace -• Confession of fallen state and need for God's grace -• Prayers for specific individuals and families in the congregation -• Prayers for health, safety, and travel for church members -• Invitation to open Bibles to John chapter 10 -• Jesus refers to himself as the good shepherd, who lays down his life for his sheep. -• The good shepherd knows and cares for his sheep, while a hired hand does not. -• Jesus claims to have authority over his own life, which he can lay down and take up again. -• Some people in the audience questioned whether Jesus was demon-possessed or raving mad due to his claims. -• A passage from Psalm 23 is referenced as an example of the comfort found in being in the presence of a good shepherd. -• The speaker reflects on the experience of being vulnerable and helpless, comparing humans to sheep -• The vulnerability and need for guidance that comes with feeling small and helpless -• The reminder from Psalm 23 that God is our shepherd, providing protection and care -• Times in life where we feel small and helpless, such as near death, mental health crisis, or global uncertainty -• The speaker acknowledges the universality of these feelings across various situations -• Fears about change -• Feeling stuck and uncertain about the future -• Image of God as a shepherd -• Jesus' statement "I am the good shepherd" and its significance -• Contrast between human capabilities and God's guidance -• Idea that God is infinitely more capable than humans of guiding us -• Good shepherds vs bad shepherds -• Jesus heals a blind person on the Sabbath -• Religious leaders object to Jesus' actions -• Pharisees remove the healed person from community -• Misuse of power by religious leaders -• Comparison with Ezekiel 34 and Psalm 23 imagery -• Referencing Ezekiel 34 -• Criticism of self-serving religious leaders -• Failure to care for the flock, prioritizing own interests -• God's judgment on shepherds who only take care of themselves -• Lack of compassion and service among leaders -• Contrast with Jesus' teachings and example -• Sheep and shepherd imagery in a passage -• Verse 11 of a story and its significance to Jewish people -• A promise made by God to care for his people -• Criticism of religious leaders for not caring for their flock -• Jesus' use of the language of shepherd to condemn self-serving leaders -• Discussion of Jesus' healing of a man and his connection to God -• Jesus as the true shepherd who comes to shepherd his people -• Importance of understanding God's character through biblical passages (John 10) -• Emphasis on listening and following God's voice, as illustrated in John 10:3-4 -• Biblical context of shepherding -• Differences between traditional and modern sheep herding practices -• Unique relationships between sheep and their shepherds -• The importance of recognizing and calling individual sheep by name -• Distinction between pushing from behind and leading from the front in sheep herding -• The image of a shepherd calling sheep to follow him illustrates how we can find encouragement in life's chaos -• The shepherd is present in the chaotic situation, giving the sheep confidence to proceed -• Jesus' statement that "my sheep listen to my voice" emphasizes his presence and guidance in uncertain times -• He calls us to places he has already been, rather than blindly pushing into the unknown -• This principle extends beyond life's challenges, even to death, as Jesus has gone ahead of us and conquered it -• The passage emphasizes knowing the shepherd's voice rather than focusing on the sheep's abilities. -• Jesus assures those who feel vulnerable that no one can snatch them from his hand or the Father's hands. -• Being held in Christ's hands is equivalent to being held in God's hands, reflecting their unity. -• Jesus identifies himself completely with God, stating "I and the Father are one". -• The shepherd's power is characterized as serving others, giving life for the benefit of others. -• The response of those listening to Jesus was divided, with some wanting to kill him due to his claim to be God. -• Jesus claiming to be God in the Gospel of John -• Understanding what it means for God to take on flesh -• The security of belonging to the Good Shepherd, not power or numbers -• Listening to and following the voice of the Shepherd -• Belonging to Christ as our faithful Savior -• The Heidelberg Catechism's emphasis on personal comfort and belonging -• Praying for guidance and boldness in following God's call -• Belonging to God and being known by Him -• Trusting God's voice and presence in life -• Being sent with a blessing from God -• The blessing is God's word spoken through the preacher -• Receiving the blessing as a gift to be shared -• Prayers for guidance, protection, and peace -• Praise and worship of God's faithfulness and goodness \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 1, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 1, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 5ef5485bd557348587ce4faf4202efdd4349b516..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 1, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1784 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 1.76] I volunteer. -[30.00 --> 59.98] I volunteer. -[60.00 --> 89.98] I volunteer. -[90.00 --> 119.98] I volunteer. -[120.00 --> 149.98] I volunteer. -[150.00 --> 179.98] I volunteer. -[180.00 --> 209.98] I volunteer. -[210.00 --> 239.98] I volunteer. -[239.98 --> 269.96] I volunteer. -[269.96 --> 299.94] I volunteer. -[299.94 --> 329.92] I volunteer. -[329.92 --> 359.90] I volunteer. -[359.90 --> 389.88] I volunteer. -[389.88 --> 419.86] I volunteer. -[419.86 --> 449.84] I volunteer. -[449.84 --> 479.82] I volunteer. -[479.82 --> 509.80] I volunteer. -[509.80 --> 539.78] I volunteer. -[539.78 --> 569.76] I volunteer. -[569.76 --> 599.74] I volunteer. -[599.74 --> 629.72] I volunteer. -[629.72 --> 659.70] I volunteer. -[659.70 --> 689.68] I volunteer. -[689.68 --> 719.66] I volunteer. -[719.66 --> 749.64] I volunteer. -[749.64 --> 779.62] I volunteer. -[779.62 --> 781.62] I volunteer. -[809.62 --> 839.60] I volunteer. -[839.60 --> 869.58] I volunteer. -[869.60 --> 899.58] I volunteer. -[899.58 --> 929.56] I volunteer. -[929.58 --> 931.58] I volunteer. -[959.58 --> 989.56] I volunteer. -[989.58 --> 1019.56] I volunteer. -[1019.56 --> 1049.54] I volunteer. -[1049.54 --> 1079.52] I volunteer. -[1079.54 --> 1109.52] I volunteer. -[1109.52 --> 1139.50] I volunteer. -[1139.52 --> 1169.50] I volunteer. -[1169.50 --> 1199.48] I volunteer. -[1199.48 --> 1229.46] I volunteer. -[1229.46 --> 1259.44] I volunteer. -[1259.46 --> 1289.44] I volunteer. -[1289.44 --> 1319.42] I volunteer. -[1319.44 --> 1325.44] I volunteer. -[1325.44 --> 1326.44] I volunteer. -[1326.44 --> 1349.42] I volunteer. -[1349.44 --> 1351.44] I volunteer. -[1379.44 --> 1409.42] I volunteer. -[1409.42 --> 1411.42] I volunteer. -[1439.42 --> 1441.42] I volunteer. -[1469.42 --> 1471.42] I volunteer. -[1471.42 --> 1472.42] I volunteer. -[1472.42 --> 1499.40] I volunteer. -[1499.42 --> 1502.42] I volunteer. -[1502.42 --> 1506.42] I volunteer. -[1506.42 --> 1509.88] follows me -[1509.88 --> 1511.74] your goodness -[1511.74 --> 1514.62] will lead me -[1514.62 --> 1515.98] home -[1515.98 --> 1538.14] your gift of grace -[1538.14 --> 1539.66] is Jesus -[1539.66 --> 1541.90] my redeemer -[1541.90 --> 1544.28] there is no -[1544.28 --> 1546.60] Lord for heaven -[1546.60 --> 1548.54] now to give -[1548.54 --> 1552.14] he is my joy -[1552.14 --> 1553.74] my righteousness -[1553.74 --> 1555.64] and freedom -[1555.64 --> 1558.02] my steadfast -[1558.02 --> 1560.28] love my deep -[1560.28 --> 1561.58] and boundless -[1561.58 --> 1563.12] peace -[1563.12 --> 1565.98] to this I hold -[1565.98 --> 1567.66] my hope is -[1567.66 --> 1569.50] only Jesus -[1569.50 --> 1571.90] for my -[1571.90 --> 1573.66] life is -[1573.66 --> 1574.98] only bound -[1574.98 --> 1577.10] to his -[1577.10 --> 1578.80] oh how -[1578.80 --> 1579.72] strange -[1579.72 --> 1580.92] and divine -[1580.92 --> 1582.70] I can see -[1582.70 --> 1583.78] all is -[1583.78 --> 1584.56] blind -[1584.56 --> 1585.50] yet no -[1585.50 --> 1586.12] die -[1586.12 --> 1587.16] but through -[1587.16 --> 1588.04] Christ -[1588.04 --> 1588.98] we may -[1588.98 --> 1601.42] the night -[1601.42 --> 1602.46] the night is -[1602.46 --> 1603.44] dark -[1603.44 --> 1605.52] but I am not -[1605.52 --> 1606.92] forsaken -[1606.92 --> 1609.36] for by my -[1609.36 --> 1610.30] side -[1610.30 --> 1611.66] the Savior -[1611.66 --> 1614.24] he will save -[1614.24 --> 1615.56] I labor -[1615.56 --> 1615.82] I labor -[1615.82 --> 1615.88] I labor -[1615.88 --> 1616.98] on -[1616.98 --> 1617.68] in -[1617.68 --> 1618.56] weakness -[1618.56 --> 1620.56] and rejoicing -[1620.56 --> 1622.40] for in -[1622.40 --> 1623.70] thy need -[1623.70 --> 1625.28] his power -[1625.28 --> 1626.10] is -[1626.10 --> 1626.56] to say -[1626.56 --> 1629.34] to this -[1629.34 --> 1629.88] I hope -[1629.88 --> 1632.04] my shepherd -[1632.04 --> 1633.88] will defend -[1633.88 --> 1635.08] me -[1635.08 --> 1636.74] through the -[1636.74 --> 1638.38] deepest -[1638.38 --> 1639.88] valley -[1639.88 --> 1643.66] but I -[1643.66 --> 1647.32] UN -[1647.32 --> 1647.96] I -[1647.96 --> 1648.28] shall -[1648.28 --> 1648.74] overcome -[1648.74 --> 1650.26] and -[1650.26 --> 1650.82] and -[1650.82 --> 1650.94] what I -[1650.94 --> 1651.54] the -[1651.54 --> 1652.68] Christ -[1652.68 --> 1653.26] in -[1653.26 --> 1654.08] love -[1654.08 --> 1654.64] ters -[1654.88 --> 1657.12] no -[1657.12 --> 1671.98] O fate I dread, I know I am forgiven -[1671.98 --> 1679.22] The future's sure, the price it has been paid -[1679.22 --> 1686.48] For Jesus bled and suffered for my body -[1686.48 --> 1693.18] And He was raised to overcome the grave -[1693.18 --> 1700.02] To the disciples and sinners with the leader -[1700.02 --> 1706.74] Jesus, my Lord, we never enter the grave -[1706.74 --> 1712.60] O Lord, we change the limits of the love we see -[1712.60 --> 1719.30] I am free and God I need God's strength -[1719.30 --> 1728.54] With every man I long to follow Jesus -[1728.54 --> 1737.86] With every man I long to love with Jesus -[1737.86 --> 1744.78] For He has said that He will make me whole -[1744.78 --> 1751.96] And day by day I know He will forgive me -[1751.96 --> 1757.90] Until I stand rejoining for the Lord -[1757.90 --> 1765.98] To this I want my hope is only Jesus -[1765.98 --> 1772.26] For the glory evermore to Him -[1772.26 --> 1776.82] When the race is complete -[1776.82 --> 1780.56] Still my list shall be beat -[1780.56 --> 1785.92] Can not I come through Christ in me -[1785.92 --> 1794.00] To this I hold my hope is only Jesus -[1794.00 --> 1800.88] All the glory evermore to Him -[1800.88 --> 1805.54] When the race is complete -[1805.54 --> 1809.38] Still my list shall be beat -[1809.38 --> 1815.46] Let not I come through Christ in me -[1815.46 --> 1823.46] Let not I come through Christ in me -[1823.46 --> 1831.54] Let not I come through Christ in me -[1831.54 --> 1854.86] My name is Brenda, and I'm the Deacon here. -[1854.86 --> 1864.22] And the offering this morning is for the budget as well as for the refugee sponsorship program here. -[1864.40 --> 1867.14] And Peter Van Heusen is going to share an update with us. -[1870.84 --> 1872.04] Thank you, Brenda. -[1873.38 --> 1874.34] Good morning, church. -[1875.52 --> 1880.00] This morning our collection is for the refugee sponsorship committee. -[1880.00 --> 1889.28] We are, as I've spoken to you about previously, is about the Niemer family who we're hoping to sponsor. -[1889.52 --> 1897.94] It's been given approval through World Renew, and it's been accepted initially through the way the Canadian government works. -[1898.42 --> 1900.74] And so we're awaiting what's happening there. -[1900.78 --> 1904.48] In the meantime, we are sponsoring the two children to go to school. -[1904.64 --> 1907.64] So they're in school, and they're very pleased with that. -[1907.64 --> 1915.34] I don't know about you, but whenever I see the news, there always seems to be an aspect of refugees, -[1916.04 --> 1920.80] people who have to flee asylum, who are looking for asylum, are moving. -[1921.52 --> 1924.08] And this week it was on the Armenians. -[1924.30 --> 1932.24] There's that little part of the parcel that's part of Azerbaijan, and the government came in and just pushed them. -[1932.24 --> 1938.90] And it looks like a good chunk of them are moving out of their country and moving to the main part of Armenia. -[1939.46 --> 1944.96] And if you know the history of Armenia, you will know that they've had a long history of that sort of thing. -[1945.58 --> 1954.96] The Murad family, the mother, her grandparents were part of the Armenian time where they were defeated, -[1954.96 --> 1957.04] and many of them lost their lives. -[1957.22 --> 1959.56] It was a huge massacre of those folk. -[1960.18 --> 1963.40] It always, it seems to be going on all the time. -[1964.04 --> 1967.36] Anyway, we're playing a very, very small part of that. -[1967.90 --> 1971.96] We've been able to sponsor some, but even we have the opportunity. -[1972.24 --> 1973.64] Calls go into the office. -[1974.26 --> 1979.40] Just this week, Jackie and I met with a family that came out of Afghanistan, -[1979.40 --> 1985.38] who had to flee into Pakistan, and they dearly desire, want to have their family coming here. -[1985.44 --> 1991.06] Of course, we can't help them, but these are people who worked and supported the Canadian Armed Forces. -[1991.74 --> 1996.10] Now they're here and they miss their families, and you just hear their, you just hear their grief. -[1996.54 --> 2002.46] So there's a whole area, if you're interested in being involved in, and have some interest in it, -[2002.46 --> 2008.94] there's a tremendous area of, that we can even as a church support people who are lonely, -[2009.10 --> 2013.86] who feel, who just feel, feel they need a sense of community, -[2013.86 --> 2017.36] because they come here and often have no one else to go to. -[2017.78 --> 2021.98] Anyway, I just thought I'd bring that to your attention, but we do need your support. -[2022.12 --> 2024.36] We're going to need about $35,000 to $40,000. -[2024.86 --> 2027.84] I think we've got 15 in the bank, so we've got a way to go. -[2027.98 --> 2028.40] Thank you. -[2032.46 --> 2062.44] Thank you. -[2062.46 --> 2064.46] Thank you. -[2064.46 --> 2092.44] Thank you. -[2092.46 --> 2094.46] Thank you. -[2094.46 --> 2122.44] Thank you. -[2122.46 --> 2124.46] Thank you. -[2124.46 --> 2152.44] Thank you. -[2152.46 --> 2156.46] Be the fire in my heart. -[2156.46 --> 2159.46] Be the wind in these sails. -[2159.46 --> 2163.96] Be the wind in these sails. -[2163.96 --> 2170.14] Be the reason that I live. -[2170.14 --> 2175.46] Jesus, Jesus. -[2175.46 --> 2185.46] Jesus, Jesus. -[2185.46 --> 2186.46] Be the fire in my heart. -[2186.46 --> 2196.54] Be the wind in these sails. -[2196.54 --> 2205.18] That I live, Jesus, Jesus. -[2222.14 --> 2223.62] Good morning, everybody. -[2226.54 --> 2230.44] Can all the kids from preschool to grade four come up to the front? -[2235.78 --> 2236.66] Hi, guys. -[2245.94 --> 2247.70] How is everybody doing this morning? -[2248.34 --> 2248.82] Good. -[2249.48 --> 2252.24] I have a question for you guys. -[2252.24 --> 2261.02] What is something that you like the inside of better than the outside? -[2265.66 --> 2266.26] Amelia. -[2266.26 --> 2271.58] What is something you like the inside better than the outside? -[2272.00 --> 2276.48] So is it some type of food or being outside your house? -[2276.60 --> 2277.14] What do you think? -[2280.04 --> 2280.48] Banana. -[2280.60 --> 2282.94] You like the inside of the banana better than the outside? -[2283.26 --> 2284.08] That's a good one. -[2284.16 --> 2285.20] Is anybody else? -[2287.68 --> 2287.98] Yeah. -[2287.98 --> 2292.88] You like the apple better than the core? -[2292.98 --> 2295.02] So that's the outside instead of the inside. -[2295.18 --> 2296.10] Is anybody else? -[2296.50 --> 2297.52] You get one more? -[2297.76 --> 2298.02] No? -[2298.72 --> 2299.86] Well, I think. -[2300.14 --> 2300.72] Yes, Malachi. -[2303.88 --> 2304.40] Cake. -[2305.24 --> 2307.18] You like the outside of the cake? -[2307.18 --> 2314.12] Well, I like the inside better than the outside in the Oreos. -[2315.06 --> 2317.90] So today, yeah, they're fun, hey? -[2318.32 --> 2322.92] Or a donut, the Boston cream donuts. -[2323.14 --> 2325.08] I like the filling better than the outside. -[2325.08 --> 2332.76] So today, in children's worship time, we are going to talk about Cain and Abel, -[2333.66 --> 2343.32] and how one of them made a choice that God saw in favor, -[2344.18 --> 2347.88] whether it was an outside choice or a choice from his heart. -[2348.20 --> 2350.88] So we're going to discuss that today in children's worship time, -[2350.96 --> 2353.44] and we're going to see what that is all about. -[2353.44 --> 2357.20] So right now, we're going to do a prayer, -[2357.64 --> 2361.38] and my prayer today is our memory verse for the month. -[2361.96 --> 2362.18] Okay? -[2362.40 --> 2366.78] So if everybody can close their eyes, put your hands in your lap, -[2367.02 --> 2370.06] and we're going to do a simple prayer here from the Bible. -[2371.04 --> 2373.48] God, see what is in my heart. -[2374.18 --> 2377.70] Help me live in the way that is always right. -[2378.70 --> 2379.26] Amen. -[2379.26 --> 2384.94] Can everybody stand up and look towards the congregation? -[2387.22 --> 2390.02] And everybody in children's worship time, what do we say? -[2390.54 --> 2391.60] The Lord. -[2391.72 --> 2392.80] He with you. -[2393.18 --> 2394.74] And also with you. -[2394.74 --> 2395.02] Amen. -[2395.02 --> 2395.08] Amen. -[2395.08 --> 2396.02] Amen. -[2396.02 --> 2397.02] Amen. -[2397.02 --> 2398.02] Amen. -[2398.02 --> 2398.08] Amen. -[2398.08 --> 2399.08] Amen. -[2399.08 --> 2400.08] Amen. -[2400.08 --> 2401.08] Amen. -[2401.08 --> 2402.08] Amen. -[2402.08 --> 2403.08] Amen. -[2403.08 --> 2404.08] Amen. -[2404.08 --> 2405.08] Amen. -[2405.08 --> 2406.08] Amen. -[2406.08 --> 2407.08] Amen. -[2407.08 --> 2408.08] Amen. -[2408.08 --> 2409.08] Amen. -[2409.08 --> 2416.04] Amen. -[2416.38 --> 2417.58] Amen. -[2424.74 --> 2425.14] Amen. -[2425.14 --> 2425.92] Amen. -[2425.92 --> 2430.78] May with you, I'm an elder here at Emmanuel C dar to me and I'm going to be leading us -[2430.84 --> 2432.26] on the congregational prayer this morning. -[2432.26 --> 2435.90] Before we begin, though, I just have a few announcements. -[2435.90 --> 2441.22] first of all as many of you have seen in our bulletin Amanda's mom Thelma was in -[2441.22 --> 2447.68] the hospital for some time in palliative care she did pass on yesterday and -[2447.68 --> 2451.58] and yesterday morning she passed away but the family is very grateful for all -[2451.58 --> 2455.62] the love and care and support and the meals that have been provided by -[2455.62 --> 2461.04] everyone throughout the past while we truly felt God's nearness through the -[2461.04 --> 2467.64] body of Christ and through all of your prayers and kindness also announcing -[2467.64 --> 2473.76] that next week Sunday we will have our Thanksgiving Day service so the in the -[2473.76 --> 2478.26] past we've had services on the Monday but we will be doing a special Thanksgiving -[2478.26 --> 2486.24] service next Sunday on October 8th and also as we're gathering together next -[2486.24 --> 2491.94] Sunday we'll be having the Lord's Supper so you're encouraged to take time to -[2491.94 --> 2496.68] reflect on and think about the sacrament with your families it's such an amazing -[2496.68 --> 2503.28] gift to allow us to touch and and taste and see this reminder that the elements -[2503.28 --> 2508.74] serve as as the reminder of the grace that Christ pours on out on us constantly I -[2508.74 --> 2514.76] always remember when my kids were littler and especially we were visiting a -[2514.76 --> 2517.26] church that did things a little differently than ours and they did -[2517.26 --> 2521.36] communion near the beginning of the service and my my boys hadn't really -[2521.36 --> 2525.74] seen the communion before as they were little toddlers and when they saw people -[2525.74 --> 2529.58] getting up kind of on their own to walk to the front receive the elements of the -[2529.58 --> 2532.70] corner of my eye I just saw one of my kids just bolt for the aisle and like full -[2532.70 --> 2536.30] on sprint like he was going to attack the elder that was at the front with the -[2536.30 --> 2539.94] elements and so I was still a little more quick and nimble at the time was able to -[2539.94 --> 2544.50] jump up in a few strides scoop him up and catch him before he got away and it was -[2544.50 --> 2551.28] like a full-on scream I want a snack too and and yeah it was kind of a nice quiet -[2551.28 --> 2555.32] reflective holy moment that there definitely wasn't a person in the church that -[2555.32 --> 2559.72] didn't hear that but at the same time I reflect on it's like wow two things one -[2559.72 --> 2563.82] that was a great time for us to start teaching our kids about what communion -[2563.82 --> 2568.26] was about and what it really meant and and number two is like wow I hope I can -[2568.26 --> 2574.30] come to the table with that sort of longing and hunger to participate next week so I -[2574.30 --> 2578.38] pray all that for for all of us that we will take time this week to really reflect -[2578.38 --> 2584.26] on on communion and and to anticipate and and come together around the table of -[2584.26 --> 2589.78] grace so at this time let's bow our heads and hearts and let's turn to our Lord in -[2589.78 --> 2598.62] prayer our Father in heaven our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ Holy Spirit we lift and -[2598.62 --> 2605.36] praise your holy name in worship we know that your name Lord is a strong and fortified tower -[2605.36 --> 2613.46] the righteous run to it and are safe you are our shepherd and we are your sheep as your flock -[2613.46 --> 2619.88] Lord we gather here to worship you knowing that you guide us on paths of righteousness for your name's -[2619.88 --> 2627.86] sake and Lord this morning as we have heard in the reading of Psalm 23 we know that your rod and staff -[2627.86 --> 2636.24] they comfort us as a community of believers at Emmanuel Church Lord we put our hope and trust in you alone and we -[2636.24 --> 2644.96] bring you our thanksgiving and sorrows alike asking you to be our comfort and guide for all things Lord we pray for -[2644.96 --> 2654.86] our world so many have become lost and gone astray we pray for people in places dealing with war hunger injustice and -[2654.86 --> 2674.86] persecution we pray for refugees who have been pushed out of their places where they live Lord in various struggles we thank you for the freedoms and peace that we experience here in our time but we pray that you forgive us Lord for any indifference we have toward the plights of so many of our brothers and sisters throughout the world -[2674.86 --> 2700.86] Lord we pray for world leaders that they would seek your will and lead with the authority that comes from you alone Lord we also confess that our fallen state brings each and every one of us to our knees in need of your grace lead us not into temptation Lord but deliver us from evil Lord we pray for those in our congregation who are in seasons of life's difficulties -[2700.86 --> 2728.86] we pray for those who have lost loved ones recently and those who mourn and grieve the loss of those who have been gone even for some time Lord we pray for the Viss family as Bob's sister passed away and they had the funeral this past week we pray also for the Tessemaker family as they enter a time of mourning and grieving the loss of Thelma Lord we know and trust that blessed are those who mourn for they will be comforted -[2728.86 --> 2758.84] for they will be comforted comforted comfort us Lord Jesus we pray for all those who are dealing with health challenges Lord we pray for Judy Dykstra with ongoing health issues and we also lift up Ellen White who has been dealing with a variety of health challenges over the past while Lord we lift up those struggling with mental and physical health we see so many struggles and challenges that come on us in this life but we trust that you give -[2758.84 --> 2788.82] you give us everything we stand in need of you restore our health and heal our diseases Lord we pray your healing in our lives and we that we would feel your nearness and presence in our lives in all circumstances Lord we pray for those who are traveling and we ask for safety and your hand on the youth leaders of this church who are attending a leaders retreat this weekend we also pray for Elam Paquette who's leaving this week to Australia for six months and Lord we pray for -[2788.82 --> 2818.80] safe travels that you would use Elam and his new community we pray for Emmanuel Church Lord this body and the ministry season that is starting up again Lord we pray for all the ministry leaders that you would use them to grow the knowledge and understanding and experience of your grace in each person that is ministered to and Lord we pray for the council and staff here at Emmanuel Holy Spirit draw us to serve willingly and use each one of us to grow your kingdom -[2818.80 --> 2848.80] and share the gospel of salvation and share the gospel of salvation in Jesus Christ to everyone we meet Lord we ask you to be with us this week as we prepare our hearts and as we look forward to celebrating the Lord's Supper together next week and Lord we pray for Pastor Steve as he leads us in opening the word and as he shares your message with us this morning we pray Father that your spirit move through us and to open our ears and hearts to hear and be challenged by your word for us today -[2848.80 --> 2850.80] Amen -[2850.80 --> 2867.52] I invite you to open up your Bibles to John chapter 10 -[2867.52 --> 2871.10] and as you're working your way there -[2871.10 --> 2877.48] just a little bit of notes about what's going on we're just jumping into the gospel of John here -[2877.48 --> 2881.44] and I think it's helpful just to know a little bit about the context -[2881.44 --> 2885.70] so right before John chapter 10 is chapter 9 -[2885.70 --> 2890.02] and we have this story of Jesus healing someone -[2890.02 --> 2893.86] but the religious leaders the shepherds of the day -[2893.86 --> 2897.08] end up kicking this guy out -[2897.08 --> 2902.32] the verse 34 of chapter 9 is pretty telling of what just happens -[2902.32 --> 2904.88] to him they replied -[2904.88 --> 2907.04] you were steeped in sin at birth -[2907.04 --> 2908.52] how dare you lecture us -[2908.52 --> 2910.00] and then they threw him out -[2910.00 --> 2912.76] so you kind of have this gatekeeping -[2912.76 --> 2915.54] of the shepherds of the day -[2915.54 --> 2917.08] that's happening -[2917.08 --> 2919.00] right before -[2919.00 --> 2922.64] Jesus starts speaking -[2922.64 --> 2925.54] and this is how Jesus responds -[2925.54 --> 2926.62] hear God's word -[2926.62 --> 2931.12] very truly I tell you Pharisees -[2931.12 --> 2935.04] anyone who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate -[2935.04 --> 2938.28] but climbs in by some other way is a thief or a robber -[2938.28 --> 2941.88] the one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep -[2941.88 --> 2944.40] the gatekeeper opens the gate for him -[2944.40 --> 2946.78] and the sheep listen to his voice -[2946.78 --> 2950.72] he calls his own sheep by name -[2950.72 --> 2951.80] and leads them out -[2951.80 --> 2954.74] when he has brought out all his own -[2954.74 --> 2955.92] he goes ahead of them -[2955.92 --> 2957.50] and the sheep follow them -[2957.50 --> 2959.18] because they know his voice -[2959.18 --> 2961.90] but they will never follow a stranger -[2961.90 --> 2963.56] in fact they will run away from him -[2963.56 --> 2966.08] because they do not recognize a stranger's voice -[2966.08 --> 2969.58] Jesus used this as a figure of speech -[2969.58 --> 2971.00] but the Pharisees didn't understand -[2971.00 --> 2972.32] what he was telling them -[2972.32 --> 2974.46] therefore Jesus said again -[2974.46 --> 2976.62] very truly I tell you -[2976.62 --> 2977.98] I am the gate for the sheep -[2977.98 --> 2979.74] all who have come before me -[2979.74 --> 2980.88] are thieves and robbers -[2980.88 --> 2983.10] but the sheep have not listened to them -[2983.10 --> 2985.48] I am the gate -[2985.48 --> 2987.80] whoever enters through me will be saved -[2987.80 --> 2990.20] they will come in and go out -[2990.20 --> 2991.14] and find pasture -[2991.14 --> 2993.30] the thief only comes to steal -[2993.30 --> 2994.34] and kill and destroy -[2994.34 --> 2995.42] I have come -[2995.42 --> 2997.30] that they may have life -[2997.30 --> 2999.08] and have it to the full -[2999.08 --> 3002.84] I am the good shepherd -[3002.84 --> 3004.76] the good shepherd -[3004.76 --> 3007.30] lays down his life for the sheep -[3007.30 --> 3009.52] the hired hand is not a shepherd -[3009.52 --> 3011.10] and does not own the sheep -[3011.10 --> 3013.48] so when he sees the wolf coming -[3013.48 --> 3014.74] he abandons the sheep -[3014.74 --> 3015.64] and runs away -[3015.64 --> 3018.32] then the wolf attacks the flock -[3018.32 --> 3019.22] and scatters it -[3019.22 --> 3020.16] the man runs away -[3020.16 --> 3021.30] because he is a hired hand -[3021.30 --> 3022.66] and cares nothing for the sheep -[3022.66 --> 3024.96] I am the good shepherd -[3024.96 --> 3027.46] I know my sheep -[3027.46 --> 3029.00] and my sheep know me -[3029.00 --> 3030.88] just as the father knows me -[3030.88 --> 3031.86] and I know the father -[3031.86 --> 3034.12] and I lay my life down -[3034.12 --> 3035.32] for the sheep -[3035.32 --> 3037.52] I have other sheep -[3037.52 --> 3038.98] that are not of this pen -[3038.98 --> 3040.86] I must bring them also -[3040.86 --> 3041.52] they too -[3041.52 --> 3042.94] listen to my voice -[3042.94 --> 3045.32] and there shall be one flock -[3045.32 --> 3046.22] and one shepherd -[3046.22 --> 3048.44] the reason my father loves me -[3048.44 --> 3049.98] is I lay down my life -[3049.98 --> 3051.20] only to take it up again -[3051.20 --> 3053.46] no one takes it from me -[3053.46 --> 3055.04] but I lay it down -[3055.04 --> 3056.24] of my own accord -[3056.24 --> 3057.18] I have the authority -[3057.18 --> 3058.42] to lay it down -[3058.42 --> 3059.30] and the authority -[3059.30 --> 3060.30] to take it up again -[3060.30 --> 3061.78] this command I received -[3061.78 --> 3062.96] from my father -[3062.96 --> 3065.70] the Jews who heard these words -[3065.70 --> 3066.66] were divided -[3066.66 --> 3068.24] many of them said -[3068.24 --> 3069.34] he is demon possessed -[3069.34 --> 3070.34] and raving mad -[3070.34 --> 3071.42] why listen to him -[3071.42 --> 3072.78] but others said -[3072.78 --> 3074.82] these are not the sayings -[3074.82 --> 3076.24] of a man possessed by a demon -[3076.24 --> 3079.08] can a demon open the eyes -[3079.08 --> 3079.84] of the blind -[3079.84 --> 3084.58] the word of the lord -[3084.58 --> 3086.96] thanks be to god -[3086.96 --> 3094.40] so in our passage -[3094.40 --> 3095.18] we had -[3095.18 --> 3097.46] Jesus referring to himself -[3097.46 --> 3099.60] as the good shepherd -[3099.60 --> 3100.88] and -[3100.88 --> 3102.88] I think it's kind of neat -[3102.88 --> 3104.18] that the -[3104.18 --> 3105.98] the idea of shepherd -[3105.98 --> 3106.60] shepherd -[3106.60 --> 3107.58] has a pretty good -[3107.58 --> 3108.34] staying power -[3108.34 --> 3109.40] for a metaphor -[3109.40 --> 3110.16] that this is -[3110.16 --> 3112.26] over 2,000 years ago -[3112.26 --> 3112.62] and -[3112.62 --> 3113.24] and Jesus -[3113.24 --> 3115.12] or about 2,000 years ago -[3115.12 --> 3116.68] and even though -[3116.68 --> 3116.90] we're -[3116.90 --> 3117.60] kind of people -[3117.60 --> 3118.36] living in cities -[3118.36 --> 3120.10] I don't own any sheep -[3120.10 --> 3120.60] I don't know -[3120.60 --> 3121.12] what it's like -[3121.12 --> 3122.32] really to be a shepherd -[3122.32 --> 3124.12] but there's something -[3124.12 --> 3125.10] about the metaphor -[3125.10 --> 3126.40] that is comforting -[3126.40 --> 3126.98] we were reading -[3126.98 --> 3128.14] the words earlier today -[3128.14 --> 3128.42] from -[3128.42 --> 3129.98] Psalm 23 -[3129.98 --> 3131.48] and we didn't need -[3131.48 --> 3132.66] to have this explained -[3132.66 --> 3133.44] any extra -[3133.44 --> 3134.10] we just know -[3134.10 --> 3134.92] of the comfort -[3134.92 --> 3135.40] that it is -[3135.40 --> 3136.16] to be in the presence -[3136.16 --> 3137.86] of the good shepherd -[3137.86 --> 3140.92] now this -[3140.92 --> 3142.28] simple observation -[3142.28 --> 3142.94] a lot of people -[3142.94 --> 3143.86] have tried to weigh in -[3143.86 --> 3144.46] like why -[3144.46 --> 3145.44] why does this -[3145.44 --> 3146.24] just immediately -[3146.24 --> 3147.72] make so much sense -[3147.72 --> 3148.34] to us -[3148.34 --> 3149.70] and one of my -[3149.70 --> 3150.70] favorite explanations -[3150.70 --> 3151.44] is -[3151.44 --> 3152.16] that -[3152.16 --> 3153.86] we know what it's like -[3153.86 --> 3154.64] to be sheep -[3154.64 --> 3155.72] that's my drawing -[3155.72 --> 3156.14] of a sheep -[3156.14 --> 3156.78] hopefully it -[3156.78 --> 3158.50] semi-resembles -[3158.50 --> 3159.32] your imagination -[3159.32 --> 3159.92] of a sheep -[3159.92 --> 3160.78] you can draw your own -[3160.78 --> 3161.28] if you like -[3161.28 --> 3163.32] but we know -[3163.32 --> 3163.84] what it's like -[3163.84 --> 3164.96] to be sheep -[3164.96 --> 3165.42] we know -[3165.42 --> 3166.30] that the vulnerability -[3166.30 --> 3168.42] that sheep have -[3168.42 --> 3169.46] the feeling -[3169.46 --> 3170.46] of helplessness -[3170.46 --> 3171.56] of just needing -[3171.56 --> 3172.38] a guide -[3172.38 --> 3173.70] needing something -[3173.70 --> 3174.70] beyond ourselves -[3174.70 --> 3175.72] we know how easily -[3175.72 --> 3177.06] we can get frightened -[3177.06 --> 3177.90] how easily -[3177.90 --> 3179.12] we can get distracted -[3179.12 --> 3180.26] that we are needy -[3180.26 --> 3180.82] and insecure -[3180.82 --> 3182.28] that we know -[3182.28 --> 3182.94] what it's like -[3182.94 --> 3184.44] to be sheep -[3184.44 --> 3185.42] and I'm sure -[3185.42 --> 3186.18] some of us -[3186.18 --> 3187.34] would prefer -[3187.34 --> 3188.40] it otherwise -[3188.40 --> 3189.68] we kind of try -[3189.68 --> 3190.86] to make ourselves -[3190.86 --> 3191.94] a little bit more secure -[3191.94 --> 3193.10] maybe we think -[3193.10 --> 3194.60] that we're more lions -[3194.60 --> 3195.92] or tigers -[3195.92 --> 3197.24] or bears -[3197.24 --> 3201.44] but I think -[3201.44 --> 3202.16] when we have -[3202.16 --> 3203.66] any sort of -[3203.66 --> 3205.54] pressures around us -[3205.54 --> 3206.22] when we're faced -[3206.22 --> 3206.80] with the really -[3206.80 --> 3207.90] challenging things -[3207.90 --> 3208.36] of life -[3208.36 --> 3209.48] that we -[3209.48 --> 3210.62] are reminded -[3210.62 --> 3211.54] that we really -[3211.54 --> 3212.08] are -[3212.08 --> 3213.78] like sheep -[3213.78 --> 3215.66] those images -[3215.66 --> 3216.36] of our strength -[3216.36 --> 3217.18] kind of fade -[3217.18 --> 3218.26] when we see -[3218.26 --> 3219.28] our own vulnerability -[3219.28 --> 3221.08] in times of crisis -[3221.08 --> 3223.14] when I come -[3223.14 --> 3224.08] and visit people -[3224.08 --> 3225.58] in hospice care -[3225.58 --> 3226.46] palliative care -[3226.46 --> 3227.32] or I'm doing -[3227.32 --> 3228.38] a graveside service -[3228.38 --> 3229.14] often people -[3229.14 --> 3230.20] will request -[3230.20 --> 3231.20] the words -[3231.20 --> 3232.52] from Psalm 23 -[3232.52 --> 3234.48] words that remind us -[3234.48 --> 3235.10] that God -[3235.10 --> 3236.06] is our shepherd -[3236.06 --> 3239.62] it's these reminders -[3239.62 --> 3240.42] that we need -[3240.42 --> 3241.06] in these times -[3241.06 --> 3241.82] where we feel -[3241.82 --> 3243.62] immensely small -[3243.62 --> 3244.66] and helpless -[3244.66 --> 3246.48] that we need -[3246.48 --> 3246.92] to know -[3246.92 --> 3248.20] that someone else -[3248.20 --> 3249.10] is in charge -[3249.10 --> 3250.18] someone who knows -[3250.18 --> 3250.52] us -[3250.52 --> 3252.40] and can protect us -[3252.40 --> 3253.58] we know -[3253.58 --> 3254.96] that we need -[3254.96 --> 3256.16] a shepherd -[3256.16 --> 3258.48] and of course -[3258.48 --> 3259.30] those times -[3259.30 --> 3260.74] kind of near death -[3260.74 --> 3262.18] are one time -[3262.18 --> 3262.90] that we can feel -[3262.90 --> 3263.26] small -[3263.26 --> 3264.28] but there's so many -[3264.28 --> 3265.26] other different instances -[3265.26 --> 3266.18] it can be -[3266.18 --> 3267.62] perhaps in a -[3267.62 --> 3268.94] mental health crisis -[3268.94 --> 3270.98] it can expose -[3270.98 --> 3271.98] that we might not -[3271.98 --> 3273.16] have as much control -[3273.16 --> 3274.06] as we would like -[3274.06 --> 3274.84] in our lives -[3274.84 --> 3276.48] it can be -[3276.48 --> 3277.20] uncertainty -[3277.20 --> 3277.98] and in global -[3277.98 --> 3278.52] politics -[3278.52 --> 3279.18] and following -[3279.18 --> 3279.76] the news -[3279.76 --> 3280.40] and just seeing -[3280.40 --> 3281.22] how quickly -[3281.22 --> 3282.32] things can change -[3282.32 --> 3283.14] in our world -[3283.14 --> 3285.18] maybe there's -[3285.18 --> 3286.12] fears around -[3286.12 --> 3286.96] movements in our -[3286.96 --> 3287.36] culture -[3287.36 --> 3288.72] that make us -[3288.72 --> 3289.24] feel kind of -[3289.24 --> 3290.02] smaller or -[3290.02 --> 3290.86] insignificant in the -[3290.86 --> 3291.22] midst of it -[3291.22 --> 3291.74] we have fears -[3291.74 --> 3292.64] of how things -[3292.64 --> 3293.28] are changing -[3293.28 --> 3294.56] or maybe it's -[3294.56 --> 3295.10] the other way -[3295.10 --> 3295.90] around where -[3295.90 --> 3297.30] you find yourself -[3297.30 --> 3298.50] that you're changing -[3298.50 --> 3300.16] and the people -[3300.16 --> 3300.82] around you -[3300.82 --> 3301.34] aren't -[3301.34 --> 3302.06] they're not -[3302.06 --> 3302.90] changing in the -[3302.90 --> 3303.66] same way -[3303.66 --> 3306.40] there's lots -[3306.40 --> 3306.92] of things -[3306.92 --> 3307.40] that can give -[3307.40 --> 3308.64] us an unsettled -[3308.64 --> 3309.36] feeling -[3309.36 --> 3311.10] there's lots -[3311.10 --> 3311.78] of things -[3311.78 --> 3312.54] that can make -[3312.54 --> 3313.24] us feel like -[3313.24 --> 3314.06] we are stuck -[3314.06 --> 3315.42] that we are -[3315.42 --> 3316.10] entering into -[3316.10 --> 3316.82] something that's -[3316.82 --> 3317.24] unknown -[3317.24 --> 3318.84] and in these -[3318.84 --> 3319.18] moments -[3319.18 --> 3319.90] it's nice -[3319.90 --> 3320.56] to know -[3320.56 --> 3322.40] that there is -[3322.40 --> 3323.32] a shepherd -[3323.32 --> 3327.40] and regardless -[3327.40 --> 3328.02] of what puts -[3328.02 --> 3328.42] us here -[3328.42 --> 3329.12] regardless -[3329.12 --> 3330.16] of what reminds -[3330.16 --> 3330.86] us that we -[3330.86 --> 3331.72] are like -[3331.72 --> 3332.12] sheep -[3332.12 --> 3336.56] we have -[3336.56 --> 3338.16] this image -[3338.16 --> 3340.92] there's comfort -[3340.92 --> 3341.54] in knowing -[3341.54 --> 3342.46] that there is -[3342.46 --> 3343.30] someone in -[3343.30 --> 3343.80] charge -[3343.80 --> 3344.70] and Jesus -[3344.70 --> 3345.62] gives this -[3345.62 --> 3346.10] twice -[3346.10 --> 3347.00] in our -[3347.00 --> 3347.62] passage -[3347.62 --> 3348.50] twice -[3348.50 --> 3349.18] he says -[3349.18 --> 3350.06] I am -[3350.06 --> 3350.68] the good -[3350.68 --> 3351.14] shepherd -[3351.14 --> 3352.42] giving that -[3352.42 --> 3352.96] emphasis -[3352.96 --> 3354.94] that reminder -[3354.94 --> 3356.02] that this -[3356.02 --> 3356.64] is something -[3356.64 --> 3357.10] true -[3357.10 --> 3357.50] this is -[3357.50 --> 3357.80] something -[3357.80 --> 3358.26] true -[3358.26 --> 3359.00] about -[3359.00 --> 3359.50] him -[3359.50 --> 3360.90] he wants -[3360.90 --> 3361.20] us to -[3361.20 --> 3361.38] know -[3361.38 --> 3361.68] that it's -[3361.68 --> 3362.00] not just -[3362.00 --> 3362.60] wishful -[3362.60 --> 3363.16] thinking -[3363.16 --> 3365.14] that that -[3365.14 --> 3365.74] is who -[3365.74 --> 3366.62] he is -[3366.62 --> 3368.32] and we -[3368.32 --> 3368.92] take comfort -[3368.92 --> 3369.36] in this -[3369.36 --> 3369.84] image -[3369.84 --> 3371.36] because God -[3371.36 --> 3372.42] also gives -[3372.42 --> 3372.96] that image -[3372.96 --> 3373.66] of himself -[3373.66 --> 3374.40] that God -[3374.40 --> 3375.22] is the one -[3375.22 --> 3375.94] who is -[3375.94 --> 3376.72] that good -[3376.72 --> 3377.04] shepherd -[3377.04 --> 3377.88] whether it's -[3377.88 --> 3378.70] from Psalm -[3378.70 --> 3379.60] 23 or -[3379.60 --> 3380.60] where we'll -[3380.60 --> 3381.20] see in a -[3381.20 --> 3381.86] moment from -[3381.86 --> 3382.84] Ezekiel 34 -[3382.84 --> 3384.20] God promises -[3384.20 --> 3384.98] to be -[3384.98 --> 3386.12] that good -[3386.12 --> 3386.62] shepherd -[3386.62 --> 3387.50] for us -[3387.50 --> 3389.58] and we -[3389.58 --> 3389.84] can be -[3389.84 --> 3390.18] reminded -[3390.18 --> 3390.52] that as -[3390.52 --> 3391.04] big of -[3391.04 --> 3391.48] a gap -[3391.48 --> 3392.00] as there -[3392.00 --> 3392.68] is between -[3392.68 --> 3393.38] sheep and -[3393.38 --> 3393.84] a shepherd -[3393.84 --> 3395.36] there's an -[3395.36 --> 3396.14] even bigger -[3396.14 --> 3397.24] gap between -[3397.24 --> 3398.04] ourselves -[3398.04 --> 3399.10] and God -[3399.10 --> 3399.74] that God -[3399.74 --> 3400.28] is kind of -[3400.28 --> 3401.32] infinitely more -[3401.32 --> 3402.52] capable of -[3402.52 --> 3403.56] guiding us -[3403.56 --> 3407.62] now Jesus' -[3407.84 --> 3408.52] statement of -[3408.52 --> 3409.24] being a good -[3409.24 --> 3410.76] shepherd adds -[3410.76 --> 3411.48] in that word -[3411.48 --> 3413.24] good and -[3413.24 --> 3414.20] that is there -[3414.20 --> 3415.42] to remind us -[3415.42 --> 3415.84] that there -[3415.84 --> 3416.48] are not -[3416.48 --> 3417.48] good shepherds -[3417.48 --> 3417.94] around -[3417.94 --> 3419.46] and we -[3419.46 --> 3420.12] could see -[3420.12 --> 3420.66] an example -[3420.66 --> 3421.00] of that -[3421.00 --> 3421.34] if we were -[3421.34 --> 3421.80] to read -[3421.80 --> 3422.40] the whole -[3422.40 --> 3423.60] of chapter -[3423.60 --> 3424.28] nine of -[3424.28 --> 3424.70] John -[3424.70 --> 3426.04] I kind of -[3426.04 --> 3426.54] pointed out -[3426.54 --> 3426.94] earlier -[3426.94 --> 3427.82] there's this -[3427.82 --> 3428.30] instance -[3428.30 --> 3429.60] Jesus heals -[3429.60 --> 3430.42] someone who -[3430.42 --> 3431.50] is blind -[3431.50 --> 3432.58] and the -[3432.58 --> 3433.38] problem with -[3433.38 --> 3433.98] that is that -[3433.98 --> 3434.44] he does it -[3434.44 --> 3434.68] on the -[3434.68 --> 3434.98] Sabbath -[3434.98 --> 3435.26] and the -[3435.26 --> 3435.70] religious -[3435.70 --> 3436.18] leaders -[3436.18 --> 3436.94] don't like -[3436.94 --> 3437.30] that -[3437.30 --> 3438.14] so when -[3438.14 --> 3438.44] they try -[3438.44 --> 3438.94] to correct -[3438.94 --> 3439.10] it -[3439.10 --> 3439.34] when they -[3439.34 --> 3439.88] confront -[3439.88 --> 3440.46] him on -[3440.46 --> 3440.62] it -[3440.62 --> 3441.34] they end -[3441.34 --> 3441.64] up -[3441.64 --> 3442.72] acting -[3442.72 --> 3443.30] like -[3443.30 --> 3444.64] not -[3444.64 --> 3444.98] good -[3444.98 --> 3445.66] shepherds -[3445.66 --> 3446.04] they end -[3446.04 --> 3446.28] up -[3446.28 --> 3446.88] kicking -[3446.88 --> 3447.20] this -[3447.20 --> 3447.52] person -[3447.52 --> 3447.76] out -[3447.76 --> 3447.96] who -[3447.96 --> 3448.16] was -[3448.16 --> 3448.46] healed -[3448.46 --> 3448.66] which -[3448.66 --> 3448.76] was -[3448.76 --> 3448.90] the -[3448.90 --> 3449.30] opposite -[3449.30 --> 3449.62] of what -[3449.62 --> 3449.80] you would -[3449.80 --> 3450.20] expect -[3450.20 --> 3450.58] from someone -[3450.58 --> 3450.78] that's -[3450.78 --> 3451.04] healed -[3451.04 --> 3452.18] when someone -[3452.18 --> 3452.48] was kind -[3452.48 --> 3452.68] of an -[3452.68 --> 3453.24] outcast -[3453.24 --> 3453.68] because -[3453.68 --> 3454.66] of a -[3454.66 --> 3455.06] sickness -[3455.06 --> 3455.80] of sorts -[3455.80 --> 3456.80] when they -[3456.80 --> 3457.26] get healed -[3457.26 --> 3457.96] they're supposed -[3457.96 --> 3458.96] to be re-entered -[3458.96 --> 3459.84] into community -[3459.84 --> 3461.00] but the opposite -[3461.00 --> 3462.24] takes place -[3462.24 --> 3462.58] here -[3462.58 --> 3464.00] they're removed -[3464.00 --> 3464.60] from it -[3464.60 --> 3466.18] as we saw -[3466.18 --> 3467.04] in verse 34 -[3467.04 --> 3467.94] they threw -[3467.94 --> 3468.60] him out -[3468.60 --> 3472.00] and we -[3472.00 --> 3472.66] find that -[3472.66 --> 3473.56] the Pharisees -[3473.56 --> 3474.22] the religious -[3474.22 --> 3474.92] shepherds -[3474.92 --> 3475.42] of Israel -[3475.42 --> 3475.82] are people -[3475.82 --> 3476.24] that have -[3476.24 --> 3476.80] it wrong -[3476.80 --> 3478.50] they're kind -[3478.50 --> 3479.56] of being -[3479.56 --> 3480.68] these gatekeepers -[3480.68 --> 3482.50] saying -[3482.50 --> 3483.84] we are the -[3483.84 --> 3484.50] ones who decide -[3484.50 --> 3485.10] who is in -[3485.10 --> 3485.68] and out -[3485.68 --> 3486.58] and they're -[3486.58 --> 3487.50] acting like -[3487.50 --> 3490.28] what the -[3490.28 --> 3491.16] description is -[3491.16 --> 3491.70] of the religious -[3491.70 --> 3492.30] leaders in -[3492.30 --> 3493.38] Ezekiel 34 -[3493.38 --> 3494.48] and I know -[3494.48 --> 3495.68] when we think -[3495.68 --> 3496.22] of the shepherd -[3496.22 --> 3496.64] imagery -[3496.64 --> 3497.94] we probably -[3497.94 --> 3498.64] first think -[3498.64 --> 3499.32] of Psalm 23 -[3499.32 --> 3500.04] because that's -[3500.04 --> 3500.36] the most -[3500.36 --> 3500.90] familiar -[3500.90 --> 3501.50] of our -[3501.50 --> 3501.96] passages -[3501.96 --> 3502.56] but if -[3502.56 --> 3503.10] you look -[3503.10 --> 3503.40] at the -[3503.40 --> 3503.60] people -[3503.60 --> 3504.06] that really -[3504.06 --> 3504.56] spend a lot -[3504.56 --> 3504.90] of time -[3504.90 --> 3505.46] with John -[3505.46 --> 3507.14] they often -[3507.14 --> 3507.80] say this is -[3507.80 --> 3509.16] actually referencing -[3509.16 --> 3510.90] Ezekiel 34 -[3510.90 --> 3511.88] a lot more -[3511.88 --> 3512.50] closely -[3512.50 --> 3513.48] and it fits -[3513.48 --> 3514.00] within the -[3514.00 --> 3514.32] narrative -[3514.32 --> 3514.82] it fits -[3514.82 --> 3515.80] within that -[3515.80 --> 3516.52] follow through -[3516.52 --> 3517.18] from that -[3517.18 --> 3518.00] context of -[3518.00 --> 3518.66] John chapter -[3518.66 --> 3519.08] 9 -[3519.08 --> 3523.08] so to -[3523.08 --> 3523.78] look at -[3523.78 --> 3525.04] Ezekiel 34 -[3525.04 --> 3526.00] for just a -[3526.00 --> 3526.36] moment -[3526.36 --> 3527.12] to hear -[3527.12 --> 3528.06] these words -[3528.06 --> 3528.78] in this -[3528.78 --> 3529.48] context -[3529.48 --> 3531.34] we have -[3531.34 --> 3532.10] God saying -[3532.10 --> 3533.28] this is -[3533.28 --> 3533.68] what the -[3533.68 --> 3534.04] sovereign -[3534.04 --> 3534.88] Lord says -[3534.88 --> 3536.84] woe to -[3536.84 --> 3537.08] you -[3537.08 --> 3537.72] shepherds -[3537.72 --> 3538.44] of Israel -[3538.44 --> 3539.04] who only -[3539.04 --> 3539.58] take care -[3539.58 --> 3540.22] of yourselves -[3540.22 --> 3541.86] should not -[3541.86 --> 3542.66] the shepherds -[3542.66 --> 3543.22] take care -[3543.22 --> 3543.54] of the -[3543.54 --> 3543.98] flock -[3543.98 --> 3546.10] so that -[3546.10 --> 3546.68] the religious -[3546.68 --> 3547.42] leaders of -[3547.42 --> 3547.60] the day -[3547.60 --> 3548.08] aren't doing -[3548.08 --> 3548.60] their job -[3548.60 --> 3548.94] of taking -[3548.94 --> 3549.26] care of -[3549.26 --> 3549.66] the flock -[3549.66 --> 3550.04] well what -[3550.04 --> 3550.28] are they -[3550.28 --> 3550.60] doing -[3550.60 --> 3550.96] they -[3550.96 --> 3551.18] says -[3551.18 --> 3551.70] you eat -[3551.70 --> 3552.38] the curds -[3552.38 --> 3552.60] and you -[3552.60 --> 3553.00] clothe -[3553.00 --> 3553.52] yourselves -[3553.52 --> 3553.88] with the -[3553.88 --> 3554.16] wool -[3554.16 --> 3554.78] and slaughter -[3554.78 --> 3555.28] the choice -[3555.28 --> 3555.74] animals -[3555.74 --> 3556.08] but you -[3556.08 --> 3556.34] don't -[3556.34 --> 3556.66] take care -[3556.66 --> 3556.88] of the -[3556.88 --> 3557.12] flock -[3557.12 --> 3557.52] so there's -[3557.52 --> 3558.00] a self -[3558.00 --> 3558.58] interest -[3558.58 --> 3559.38] that they -[3559.38 --> 3559.86] have -[3559.86 --> 3560.96] in contrast -[3560.96 --> 3561.52] to what -[3561.52 --> 3561.74] they're -[3561.74 --> 3562.36] supposed to -[3562.36 --> 3563.26] be doing -[3563.26 --> 3564.14] but more -[3564.14 --> 3564.72] than that -[3564.72 --> 3565.40] it says -[3565.40 --> 3566.04] in verse 4 -[3566.04 --> 3566.38] you have -[3566.38 --> 3567.20] not strengthened -[3567.20 --> 3567.80] the weak -[3567.80 --> 3568.48] or healed -[3568.48 --> 3569.04] the sick -[3569.04 --> 3569.68] or bound -[3569.68 --> 3570.32] the injured -[3570.32 --> 3570.78] you have -[3570.78 --> 3571.64] not brought -[3571.64 --> 3572.18] back -[3572.18 --> 3573.20] the strays -[3573.20 --> 3573.76] or even -[3573.76 --> 3574.26] searched -[3574.26 --> 3574.66] for the -[3574.66 --> 3575.04] lost -[3575.04 --> 3575.94] you have -[3575.94 --> 3576.36] ruled them -[3576.36 --> 3576.96] harshly -[3576.96 --> 3577.48] and brutally -[3577.48 --> 3578.20] so this -[3578.20 --> 3579.18] act of -[3579.18 --> 3579.64] caring -[3579.64 --> 3580.30] of going -[3580.30 --> 3580.68] out -[3580.68 --> 3581.58] and seeking -[3581.58 --> 3582.32] the lost -[3582.32 --> 3583.86] of bandaging -[3583.86 --> 3584.42] the sick -[3584.42 --> 3585.90] this is -[3585.90 --> 3586.26] what they -[3586.26 --> 3586.70] were called -[3586.70 --> 3587.22] to do -[3587.22 --> 3588.40] and they -[3588.40 --> 3588.80] weren't -[3588.80 --> 3589.50] doing it -[3589.50 --> 3592.64] it's no -[3592.64 --> 3593.20] mistake -[3593.20 --> 3594.04] that Jesus -[3594.04 --> 3594.72] picks up -[3594.72 --> 3595.28] shepherd -[3595.28 --> 3596.00] sheep and -[3596.00 --> 3596.32] shepherd -[3596.32 --> 3596.88] imagery -[3596.88 --> 3598.04] right after -[3598.04 --> 3598.76] the story -[3598.76 --> 3599.46] of the -[3599.46 --> 3599.82] religious -[3599.82 --> 3600.46] leaders -[3600.46 --> 3602.16] ruling -[3602.16 --> 3603.02] harshly -[3603.02 --> 3603.70] perhaps -[3603.70 --> 3604.24] brutally -[3604.24 --> 3606.90] and you -[3606.90 --> 3607.30] can read -[3607.30 --> 3607.88] the full -[3607.88 --> 3609.36] chapter -[3609.36 --> 3611.02] to get -[3611.02 --> 3611.36] the bigger -[3611.36 --> 3611.78] picture -[3611.78 --> 3612.32] but I -[3612.32 --> 3612.54] think -[3612.54 --> 3612.80] one of -[3612.80 --> 3613.26] the key -[3613.26 --> 3613.68] verses -[3613.68 --> 3614.62] is -[3614.62 --> 3615.86] verse 11 -[3615.86 --> 3616.64] one of -[3616.64 --> 3617.30] the reasons -[3617.30 --> 3617.88] why this -[3617.88 --> 3618.22] would have -[3618.22 --> 3618.56] been on -[3618.56 --> 3618.94] the minds -[3618.94 --> 3619.14] of the -[3619.14 --> 3619.34] Jewish -[3619.34 --> 3619.62] people -[3619.62 --> 3619.94] is because -[3619.94 --> 3620.28] of a -[3620.28 --> 3620.76] promise -[3620.76 --> 3621.10] that's -[3621.10 --> 3621.60] embedded -[3621.60 --> 3622.40] into this -[3622.40 --> 3622.74] passage -[3622.74 --> 3623.16] it's not -[3623.16 --> 3623.54] just an -[3623.54 --> 3624.08] indictment -[3624.08 --> 3624.66] against the -[3624.66 --> 3624.94] religious -[3624.94 --> 3625.22] leaders -[3625.22 --> 3625.44] of the -[3625.44 --> 3625.68] day -[3625.68 --> 3626.28] but there's -[3626.28 --> 3626.86] a promise -[3626.86 --> 3627.38] in here -[3627.38 --> 3627.88] and the -[3627.88 --> 3628.32] promise -[3628.32 --> 3628.90] is -[3628.90 --> 3630.86] this is -[3630.86 --> 3631.26] what the -[3631.26 --> 3631.70] sovereign -[3631.70 --> 3632.52] lord says -[3632.52 --> 3633.82] I myself -[3633.82 --> 3634.48] will search -[3634.48 --> 3634.96] for my -[3634.96 --> 3635.30] sheep -[3635.30 --> 3635.78] and look -[3635.78 --> 3636.50] after them -[3636.50 --> 3638.22] there's a -[3638.22 --> 3638.68] promise -[3638.68 --> 3639.32] that God -[3639.32 --> 3639.70] himself -[3639.70 --> 3640.36] would be -[3640.36 --> 3640.78] the sheep -[3640.78 --> 3641.24] that God -[3641.24 --> 3641.90] himself -[3641.90 --> 3643.10] would do -[3643.10 --> 3643.72] that work -[3643.72 --> 3644.52] of caring -[3644.52 --> 3644.98] for his -[3644.98 --> 3645.28] people -[3645.28 --> 3645.64] so the -[3645.64 --> 3645.96] people -[3645.96 --> 3646.96] are anticipating -[3646.96 --> 3647.68] a time -[3647.68 --> 3648.30] where God -[3648.30 --> 3648.56] will be -[3648.56 --> 3648.92] present -[3648.92 --> 3649.54] where God -[3649.54 --> 3650.06] will be -[3650.06 --> 3650.68] the shepherd -[3650.68 --> 3653.64] so when -[3653.64 --> 3654.42] Jesus picks -[3654.42 --> 3654.76] up the -[3654.76 --> 3655.34] language of -[3655.34 --> 3656.06] shepherd here -[3656.06 --> 3657.80] right after -[3657.80 --> 3658.30] the shepherds -[3658.30 --> 3658.82] of the day -[3658.82 --> 3659.42] show that -[3659.42 --> 3659.88] they're not -[3659.88 --> 3660.34] caring for -[3660.34 --> 3660.82] the flock -[3660.82 --> 3661.50] it's a -[3661.50 --> 3662.64] very loaded -[3662.64 --> 3663.22] statement -[3663.22 --> 3665.42] he's essentially -[3665.42 --> 3665.92] saying -[3665.92 --> 3667.34] you leaders -[3667.34 --> 3668.46] are acting -[3668.46 --> 3668.90] like the -[3668.90 --> 3669.52] leaders of -[3669.52 --> 3669.96] old -[3669.96 --> 3671.04] you're no -[3671.04 --> 3671.48] different than -[3671.48 --> 3671.90] the ones that -[3671.90 --> 3672.38] came before -[3672.38 --> 3672.78] you who -[3672.78 --> 3673.28] missed the -[3673.28 --> 3673.60] point -[3673.60 --> 3673.94] you are -[3673.94 --> 3674.46] shepherds -[3674.46 --> 3675.08] who are only -[3675.08 --> 3676.10] interested in -[3676.10 --> 3676.66] yourselves -[3676.66 --> 3677.28] your self -[3677.28 --> 3677.86] preservation -[3677.86 --> 3679.06] you're kicking -[3679.06 --> 3679.54] out someone -[3679.54 --> 3679.88] from the -[3679.88 --> 3680.24] flock -[3680.24 --> 3680.84] for what -[3680.84 --> 3682.12] for being -[3682.12 --> 3682.64] healed -[3682.64 --> 3683.54] because he -[3683.54 --> 3684.16] believes in -[3684.16 --> 3684.46] the one -[3684.46 --> 3685.02] who healed -[3685.02 --> 3685.30] him -[3685.30 --> 3687.66] he's saying -[3687.66 --> 3688.04] to the -[3688.04 --> 3688.78] Pharisees -[3688.78 --> 3689.86] remember -[3689.86 --> 3690.58] what God -[3690.58 --> 3691.26] promised -[3691.26 --> 3693.48] that he -[3693.48 --> 3694.26] would come -[3694.26 --> 3695.14] and shepherd -[3695.14 --> 3695.76] his people -[3695.76 --> 3696.14] that he -[3696.14 --> 3696.52] would be -[3696.52 --> 3697.02] the true -[3697.02 --> 3697.50] shepherd -[3697.50 --> 3698.82] well I -[3698.82 --> 3699.44] am -[3699.44 --> 3700.56] the shepherd -[3700.56 --> 3701.72] you throw -[3701.72 --> 3702.20] people out -[3702.20 --> 3702.66] you send -[3702.66 --> 3703.18] them away -[3703.18 --> 3703.96] to get -[3703.96 --> 3704.38] snatched -[3704.38 --> 3704.78] by the -[3704.78 --> 3705.12] wolves -[3705.12 --> 3705.58] but not -[3705.58 --> 3705.88] me -[3705.88 --> 3706.62] those who -[3706.62 --> 3706.96] come to -[3706.96 --> 3707.22] me -[3707.22 --> 3707.56] are -[3707.56 --> 3708.16] completely -[3708.16 --> 3708.78] secure -[3708.78 --> 3709.72] they'll -[3709.72 --> 3710.34] never be -[3710.34 --> 3710.78] snatched -[3710.78 --> 3711.24] away -[3711.24 --> 3713.26] and I -[3713.26 --> 3713.78] think that's -[3713.78 --> 3714.46] an important -[3714.46 --> 3715.28] image for -[3715.28 --> 3715.98] us to -[3715.98 --> 3716.32] capture -[3716.32 --> 3716.66] when we -[3716.66 --> 3717.30] read this -[3717.30 --> 3717.90] passage -[3717.90 --> 3719.78] that whatever -[3719.78 --> 3720.46] our picture -[3720.46 --> 3721.16] of who -[3721.16 --> 3722.08] God is -[3722.08 --> 3723.14] needs to -[3723.14 --> 3723.94] be informed -[3723.94 --> 3724.86] by John -[3724.86 --> 3725.54] chapter 10 -[3725.54 --> 3726.36] of God -[3726.36 --> 3727.54] being the -[3727.54 --> 3727.86] shepherd -[3727.86 --> 3728.58] of God -[3728.58 --> 3729.00] being the -[3729.00 --> 3729.62] one who -[3729.62 --> 3730.54] longs to -[3730.54 --> 3731.12] reach out -[3731.12 --> 3731.82] for those -[3731.82 --> 3732.50] who actually -[3732.50 --> 3733.68] searches for -[3733.68 --> 3734.74] the lost -[3734.74 --> 3735.34] and brings -[3735.34 --> 3735.86] them home -[3735.86 --> 3736.74] that bandages -[3736.74 --> 3737.16] them -[3737.16 --> 3741.12] earlier in -[3741.12 --> 3741.70] the passage -[3741.70 --> 3742.30] if we -[3742.30 --> 3742.82] look at -[3742.82 --> 3744.76] John 10 -[3744.76 --> 3745.62] verse 3 -[3745.62 --> 3746.80] there's also -[3746.80 --> 3747.20] a big -[3747.20 --> 3747.64] emphasis -[3747.64 --> 3749.52] on the -[3749.52 --> 3749.82] sheep -[3749.82 --> 3751.24] and what -[3751.24 --> 3751.76] the sheep -[3751.76 --> 3752.50] are doing -[3752.50 --> 3752.96] here and -[3752.96 --> 3753.34] it says -[3753.34 --> 3754.02] in verse -[3754.02 --> 3754.44] 3 -[3754.44 --> 3755.90] the gate -[3755.90 --> 3756.40] keeper -[3756.40 --> 3756.90] opens the -[3756.90 --> 3757.26] gate for -[3757.26 --> 3757.56] him and -[3757.56 --> 3758.06] the sheep -[3758.06 --> 3759.48] listen to -[3759.48 --> 3760.32] his voice -[3760.32 --> 3761.74] there's this -[3761.74 --> 3762.56] listening -[3762.56 --> 3763.28] emphasis -[3763.28 --> 3764.12] in here -[3764.12 --> 3765.74] he calls -[3765.74 --> 3766.18] the sheep -[3766.18 --> 3766.78] by name -[3766.78 --> 3767.32] and leads -[3767.32 --> 3767.88] them out -[3767.88 --> 3769.88] and when -[3769.88 --> 3770.42] he has -[3770.42 --> 3771.06] brought them -[3771.06 --> 3772.12] out all -[3772.12 --> 3772.54] on his -[3772.54 --> 3772.94] own -[3772.94 --> 3774.38] he goes -[3774.38 --> 3775.06] on ahead -[3775.06 --> 3775.48] of them -[3775.48 --> 3776.60] and the -[3776.60 --> 3777.40] sheep follow -[3777.40 --> 3778.22] him because -[3778.22 --> 3779.44] they know -[3779.44 --> 3780.74] his voice -[3780.74 --> 3786.24] now -[3786.24 --> 3790.14] knowing the -[3790.14 --> 3790.70] good shepherd -[3790.70 --> 3791.56] here is an -[3791.56 --> 3792.52] important thing -[3792.52 --> 3794.26] but also -[3794.26 --> 3797.64] to know -[3797.64 --> 3798.60] in the -[3798.60 --> 3798.84] biblical -[3798.84 --> 3799.60] context -[3799.60 --> 3801.26] I said -[3801.26 --> 3801.56] earlier -[3801.56 --> 3802.28] we don't -[3802.28 --> 3802.74] necessarily -[3802.74 --> 3803.32] know too -[3803.32 --> 3803.68] many -[3803.68 --> 3804.80] shepherds -[3804.80 --> 3805.68] and if we -[3805.68 --> 3806.00] do it's -[3806.00 --> 3806.36] probably a -[3806.36 --> 3806.66] little bit -[3806.66 --> 3807.32] different than -[3807.32 --> 3808.28] what shepherding -[3808.28 --> 3808.92] looked like -[3808.92 --> 3809.90] back in the -[3809.90 --> 3810.18] day -[3810.18 --> 3811.64] maybe some -[3811.64 --> 3811.86] of our -[3811.86 --> 3812.76] pictures of -[3812.76 --> 3813.48] sheep and -[3813.48 --> 3813.86] shepherd -[3813.86 --> 3814.54] we kind of -[3814.54 --> 3815.12] think to -[3815.12 --> 3816.80] what might -[3816.80 --> 3817.46] be out there -[3817.46 --> 3818.16] in other -[3818.16 --> 3818.98] areas where -[3818.98 --> 3819.30] you have -[3819.30 --> 3819.60] like the -[3819.60 --> 3820.22] sheep dogs -[3820.22 --> 3820.62] and they -[3820.62 --> 3821.66] corral the -[3821.66 --> 3822.02] sheep by -[3822.02 --> 3822.72] going behind -[3822.72 --> 3823.82] and pointing -[3823.82 --> 3824.14] them in -[3824.14 --> 3824.64] directions -[3824.64 --> 3825.32] that way -[3825.32 --> 3826.22] but that's -[3826.22 --> 3826.72] not the -[3826.72 --> 3827.50] way that -[3827.50 --> 3827.96] shepherding -[3827.96 --> 3829.12] worked in -[3829.12 --> 3829.38] the Middle -[3829.38 --> 3829.74] East or -[3829.74 --> 3831.14] still works -[3831.14 --> 3831.70] that way -[3831.70 --> 3833.16] when I -[3833.16 --> 3833.84] lived in -[3833.84 --> 3834.62] Israel for -[3834.62 --> 3835.44] a time -[3835.44 --> 3835.86] we would -[3835.86 --> 3836.50] come across -[3836.50 --> 3837.22] shepherds -[3837.22 --> 3838.08] and I -[3838.08 --> 3838.54] remember one -[3838.54 --> 3839.32] conversation that -[3839.32 --> 3839.84] we had with -[3839.84 --> 3840.78] one of just -[3840.78 --> 3841.38] asking what -[3841.38 --> 3841.90] is the -[3841.90 --> 3842.32] relationship -[3842.32 --> 3843.12] with the -[3843.12 --> 3843.58] sheep like -[3843.58 --> 3845.06] what can -[3845.06 --> 3845.58] you tell us -[3845.58 --> 3846.06] about these -[3846.06 --> 3846.30] well he -[3846.30 --> 3846.70] could tell -[3846.70 --> 3847.70] us that he -[3847.70 --> 3848.16] had some of -[3848.16 --> 3848.68] his favorite -[3848.68 --> 3849.40] sheep he -[3849.40 --> 3849.76] knew which -[3849.76 --> 3850.10] sheep were -[3850.10 --> 3850.48] the leader -[3850.48 --> 3851.50] ones and -[3851.50 --> 3851.72] he could -[3851.72 --> 3852.04] demonstrate -[3852.04 --> 3852.46] that by -[3852.46 --> 3852.88] calling he -[3852.88 --> 3853.12] could say -[3853.12 --> 3853.52] okay that -[3853.52 --> 3853.90] sheep over -[3853.90 --> 3854.56] there I'll -[3854.56 --> 3855.02] call that -[3855.02 --> 3855.62] one's name -[3855.62 --> 3856.24] and it will -[3856.24 --> 3856.84] come to me -[3856.84 --> 3857.28] and that -[3857.28 --> 3857.62] one over -[3857.62 --> 3858.00] there well -[3858.00 --> 3858.38] that one's -[3858.38 --> 3858.76] the leader -[3858.76 --> 3859.54] sheep so -[3859.54 --> 3859.96] if I call -[3859.96 --> 3860.28] that one -[3860.28 --> 3860.66] to me I -[3860.66 --> 3861.08] know other -[3861.08 --> 3861.56] ones will -[3861.56 --> 3862.14] follow so -[3862.14 --> 3862.48] it can be -[3862.48 --> 3862.98] helpful if -[3862.98 --> 3863.20] we have -[3863.20 --> 3863.70] some stubborn -[3863.70 --> 3864.98] sheep to -[3864.98 --> 3865.44] know which -[3865.44 --> 3866.22] ones to -[3866.22 --> 3867.52] kind of call -[3867.52 --> 3868.10] by name -[3868.10 --> 3869.64] and one of -[3869.64 --> 3870.14] the interesting -[3870.14 --> 3871.16] things about -[3871.16 --> 3872.50] sheep listening -[3872.50 --> 3872.90] when they -[3872.90 --> 3874.08] call is that -[3874.08 --> 3874.68] it's not an -[3874.68 --> 3875.22] image of -[3875.22 --> 3876.02] pushing from -[3876.02 --> 3877.48] behind but -[3877.48 --> 3878.24] the shepherd has -[3878.24 --> 3879.12] to go ahead -[3879.12 --> 3879.54] of the -[3879.54 --> 3880.08] sheep and -[3880.08 --> 3881.24] sheep for -[3881.24 --> 3881.88] them to be -[3881.88 --> 3882.50] able to -[3882.50 --> 3883.12] follow where -[3883.12 --> 3883.90] they're going -[3883.90 --> 3886.10] this is -[3886.10 --> 3886.80] something that -[3886.80 --> 3887.20] could kind of -[3887.20 --> 3887.84] famously be -[3887.84 --> 3888.84] demonstrated in -[3888.84 --> 3889.68] the sheep pens -[3889.68 --> 3891.38] there if you -[3891.38 --> 3892.02] wanted to make -[3892.02 --> 3892.46] sure that your -[3892.46 --> 3893.06] sheep were taken -[3893.06 --> 3893.62] care of for the -[3893.62 --> 3894.62] night it didn't -[3894.62 --> 3895.62] matter if you -[3895.62 --> 3896.34] just threw them -[3896.34 --> 3897.54] in this big pen -[3897.54 --> 3899.28] with flocks from -[3899.28 --> 3900.06] many other -[3900.06 --> 3901.50] shepherds because -[3901.50 --> 3902.04] you didn't have to -[3902.04 --> 3902.68] worry about sorting -[3902.68 --> 3903.32] out which sheep -[3903.32 --> 3903.98] were yours all -[3903.98 --> 3904.56] you'd have to do -[3904.56 --> 3905.12] is step out of -[3905.12 --> 3905.94] the pen and -[3905.94 --> 3907.62] call the names -[3907.62 --> 3908.46] for your sheep and -[3908.46 --> 3909.08] they would all -[3909.08 --> 3909.96] just come out -[3909.96 --> 3911.00] naturally you -[3911.00 --> 3911.56] wouldn't have to -[3911.56 --> 3912.28] have little extra -[3912.28 --> 3913.10] dividers the -[3913.10 --> 3914.78] sheep know the -[3914.78 --> 3915.90] shepherd's voice -[3915.90 --> 3920.18] and it doesn't -[3920.18 --> 3920.92] just stop with -[3920.92 --> 3921.88] being in the pen -[3921.88 --> 3922.58] of course that -[3922.58 --> 3924.04] pattern happens the -[3924.04 --> 3925.64] whole day that the -[3925.64 --> 3926.48] sheep are always -[3926.48 --> 3927.46] following the -[3927.46 --> 3928.58] shepherd so to -[3928.58 --> 3930.20] have this in our -[3930.20 --> 3931.64] imagery here we -[3931.64 --> 3933.54] got the sheep and -[3933.54 --> 3935.58] if there's something -[3935.58 --> 3937.22] chaotic going on in -[3937.22 --> 3938.04] front of the sheep -[3938.04 --> 3939.26] we don't have the -[3939.26 --> 3941.10] shepherd coming from -[3941.10 --> 3942.04] behind and saying -[3942.04 --> 3943.30] I go go into the -[3943.30 --> 3944.32] chaos go into that -[3944.32 --> 3946.74] uncertain place what -[3946.74 --> 3948.72] we have is the image -[3948.72 --> 3950.48] of the shepherd that -[3950.48 --> 3953.34] invites the sheep to -[3953.34 --> 3955.56] come to come where he -[3955.56 --> 3958.40] already is and I like -[3958.40 --> 3960.20] this image not just -[3960.20 --> 3962.18] because I drew it but -[3962.18 --> 3963.52] because I think it -[3963.52 --> 3965.94] gives a good picture of -[3965.94 --> 3967.40] how we can find some -[3967.40 --> 3968.44] encouragement in this -[3968.44 --> 3970.48] passage notice that in -[3970.48 --> 3971.94] this context that the -[3971.94 --> 3973.50] chaos the messiness of -[3973.50 --> 3974.08] life doesn't -[3974.08 --> 3975.22] necessarily disappear -[3975.22 --> 3978.76] what happens here is -[3978.76 --> 3980.24] that the shepherd is -[3980.24 --> 3981.52] present in it what -[3981.52 --> 3982.50] gives the sheep the -[3982.50 --> 3983.56] confidence to go up -[3983.56 --> 3984.50] there isn't that they -[3984.50 --> 3985.58] have a shepherd behind -[3985.58 --> 3986.60] them pushing them to -[3986.60 --> 3988.10] go but the shepherd is -[3988.10 --> 3990.68] present it's inviting them -[3990.68 --> 3992.14] to go into something -[3992.14 --> 3994.30] that is already known -[3994.30 --> 3998.56] my sheep listen to my -[3998.56 --> 4000.90] voice I know them and -[4000.90 --> 4003.54] they follow me Jesus -[4003.54 --> 4007.10] says the shepherd does -[4007.10 --> 4008.52] not and will not call us -[4008.52 --> 4009.82] to a place where he has -[4009.82 --> 4013.12] not already been we can -[4013.12 --> 4014.88] walk we can move ahead -[4014.88 --> 4016.44] with confidence knowing -[4016.44 --> 4017.78] that the shepherd doesn't -[4017.78 --> 4019.32] just tell us to blindly -[4019.32 --> 4020.94] push ourselves into the -[4020.94 --> 4022.46] unknown instead the -[4022.46 --> 4024.54] shepherd is present in -[4024.54 --> 4025.74] the places that might -[4025.74 --> 4027.84] seem or might feel very -[4027.84 --> 4029.18] uncertain for you -[4029.18 --> 4033.00] now this extends into -[4033.00 --> 4034.16] everything this extends -[4034.16 --> 4036.24] even into death -[4036.24 --> 4038.28] Jesus is the one who has -[4038.28 --> 4039.52] gone ahead of us who has -[4039.52 --> 4040.56] died who has conquered -[4040.56 --> 4042.76] death what is unknown to -[4042.76 --> 4044.02] us is something that is -[4044.02 --> 4045.30] certain for him -[4045.30 --> 4049.36] as sheep of the good -[4049.36 --> 4051.04] shepherd we are free to -[4051.04 --> 4053.90] wander ahead wander towards -[4053.90 --> 4055.28] him with full confidence -[4055.28 --> 4057.80] that God has things in -[4057.80 --> 4059.74] control that regardless of -[4059.74 --> 4060.88] how things may appear -[4060.88 --> 4063.78] regardless of how it might -[4063.78 --> 4065.18] appear that something else is -[4065.18 --> 4067.98] in charge that we will in -[4067.98 --> 4070.18] fact never be snatched away -[4070.18 --> 4074.38] now we might think if it's -[4074.38 --> 4075.60] kind of up to us the -[4075.60 --> 4076.64] strength of the sheep that -[4076.64 --> 4077.60] that maybe we're not strong -[4078.22 --> 4080.52] enough that we haven't done -[4080.52 --> 4081.68] enough that we don't have -[4081.68 --> 4082.82] enough certainty enough -[4082.82 --> 4083.74] conviction -[4083.74 --> 4087.22] but what's interesting in this -[4087.22 --> 4088.68] passage is that the emphasis -[4088.68 --> 4090.66] is not on the sheep or their -[4090.66 --> 4091.60] abilities -[4091.60 --> 4095.06] it points towards simply -[4095.06 --> 4097.10] knowing the shepherd's voice -[4097.10 --> 4100.90] are the sheep able to -[4100.90 --> 4102.46] identify are they familiar -[4102.46 --> 4105.66] enough with the one who is -[4105.66 --> 4106.48] the good shepherd -[4106.48 --> 4112.10] now Jesus gives this assurance -[4112.10 --> 4114.58] for those who are feeling -[4114.58 --> 4117.90] vulnerable for us sheep -[4117.90 --> 4123.60] in chapter 10 he notes no one -[4123.60 --> 4126.30] can snatch them from my hand -[4126.30 --> 4129.24] we can think of this no one -[4129.24 --> 4131.70] we can think of I think Paul -[4131.70 --> 4134.58] in Romans chapter 8 maybe -[4134.58 --> 4136.36] reflecting back on Jesus's -[4136.36 --> 4138.18] words of the security that we -[4138.18 --> 4139.88] have in Christ that no one or -[4139.88 --> 4141.30] nothing can separate us from -[4141.30 --> 4143.60] him and how he just extends -[4143.60 --> 4146.04] that Paul kind of goes on his -[4146.04 --> 4148.10] own ideas they're saying that -[4148.10 --> 4149.22] nothing can separate us from -[4149.22 --> 4150.32] the love of God that is in -[4150.32 --> 4152.46] Christ Jesus no height or depth -[4152.46 --> 4155.90] no power no authority or anything -[4155.90 --> 4157.78] can get between you and Jesus -[4157.78 --> 4161.86] this image I think I have it -[4161.86 --> 4163.60] written down here no one can -[4163.60 --> 4166.76] snatch me from his hand it's an -[4166.76 --> 4170.62] intensely personal image it's one -[4170.62 --> 4174.52] of being close it's not just that -[4174.52 --> 4176.64] you are guarded but you are in his -[4176.64 --> 4179.26] hand you are held and protected and -[4179.26 --> 4183.98] secure in the hands of Christ and -[4183.98 --> 4186.52] and when we look at where does -[4186.52 --> 4188.76] where's Jesus coming from to make -[4188.76 --> 4192.12] this level of statement what gives -[4192.12 --> 4195.36] him this sort of authority well -[4195.36 --> 4198.04] because being held in Jesus hands is -[4198.04 --> 4201.26] one in the same of being held in -[4201.26 --> 4204.94] God's hands and this is something you -[4204.94 --> 4206.86] see over and over again in the gospel -[4206.86 --> 4209.16] of John when you read it and as a whole -[4209.16 --> 4211.92] just how closely Jesus will say one -[4211.92 --> 4213.70] thing about himself and then say the -[4213.70 --> 4217.00] next line the very same thing about -[4217.00 --> 4219.60] God and this happens in this passage -[4219.60 --> 4221.58] where he talks about how no one can -[4221.58 --> 4223.96] snatch me from my hand or from the -[4223.96 --> 4227.86] father's hands and in case it's not -[4227.86 --> 4230.36] clear that he is one who is identifying -[4230.36 --> 4232.92] himself completely with God he says I -[4232.92 --> 4236.04] and the father are one he wants to -[4236.04 --> 4238.32] make it abundantly clear that he is God -[4238.32 --> 4242.38] finally come find finally come as the -[4242.38 --> 4245.98] shepherd who was promised to do away -[4245.98 --> 4247.84] with the shepherds who selfishly use -[4247.84 --> 4248.88] their power for gain -[4248.88 --> 4254.56] as God he is showing them what God -[4254.56 --> 4258.10] really looks like God's power is one -[4258.10 --> 4262.02] that has its power to serve one that -[4262.02 --> 4267.38] gives his life for others now if you're -[4267.38 --> 4268.96] wondering if that's how it was -[4268.96 --> 4271.40] understood in that day you can just -[4271.40 --> 4273.14] look at the response of the people that -[4273.14 --> 4276.24] were listening to him they respond like -[4276.24 --> 4279.80] they understand these people are -[4279.80 --> 4280.72] divided -[4280.72 --> 4285.10] that you could picture them kind of -[4285.10 --> 4288.78] picking up stones to kill him over this -[4288.78 --> 4291.32] it's one thing to claim to be the -[4291.32 --> 4293.48] messiah to but to claim to be God that's -[4293.48 --> 4295.92] going too far they say you are a man -[4295.92 --> 4301.28] you a mere man claim to be God and they -[4301.28 --> 4303.44] see this claim this outward claim -[4303.44 --> 4305.84] outright claim just to be God and they -[4305.84 --> 4308.12] are surprised they're offended by it -[4308.12 --> 4311.46] but if you read the gospel of John if -[4311.46 --> 4313.32] you've been following in the story you're -[4313.32 --> 4316.06] probably not as surprised as these first -[4316.06 --> 4317.60] hearers because John's been dropping -[4317.60 --> 4320.08] hints or just saying outright throughout -[4320.08 --> 4324.48] the gospel of John that this Jesus is God he -[4324.48 --> 4327.34] says it in the first chapter in verse 14 he -[4327.34 --> 4330.12] has this famous declaration the word or -[4330.12 --> 4334.40] God God became flesh and dwelt among us -[4334.40 --> 4338.60] so as as once by the time we get to -[4338.60 --> 4340.58] chapter 10 we might not be as surprised -[4340.58 --> 4345.08] with Jesus claiming to be God but what -[4345.08 --> 4349.98] might be a little bit surprising is what God -[4349.98 --> 4355.28] taking on flesh looks like that God taking -[4355.28 --> 4357.44] on flesh was only the beginning of the -[4357.44 --> 4359.44] depths that God was willing to do to -[4359.44 --> 4363.20] rescue his people the shepherd is one who -[4363.20 --> 4367.66] also lays down his life for the sheep like -[4367.66 --> 4374.92] that's the type of God that this is now what what -[4374.92 --> 4378.88] gives this final security for us we who are -[4378.88 --> 4383.68] sheep I think it's it's helpful for us to -[4383.68 --> 4389.04] finish with this image again remembering that the -[4389.04 --> 4393.50] security doesn't come from being transformed into -[4393.50 --> 4396.22] anything more powerful it's not about the -[4396.22 --> 4399.06] sheep becoming something different the -[4399.06 --> 4400.86] sheep remain sheep -[4400.86 --> 4405.20] it's not even about gathering ourselves -[4405.20 --> 4407.30] together so there's just more of us and -[4407.30 --> 4409.08] then maybe we'll be protected maybe we'll be -[4409.08 --> 4409.92] safe that way -[4409.92 --> 4413.88] the security has nothing to do with the -[4413.88 --> 4417.44] ability or the number of the sheep it is in -[4417.44 --> 4421.76] their belonging to the shepherd those who have -[4421.76 --> 4424.04] heard his voice those who believed him those -[4424.04 --> 4425.12] who followed him -[4425.12 --> 4429.62] we only need to listen to what the shepherd -[4429.62 --> 4433.88] says follow his voice and go where he -[4433.88 --> 4438.00] leads remember the one who calls us -[4438.00 --> 4441.70] invites us forward doesn't do so as one -[4441.70 --> 4444.40] kind of pushing us from behind telling us to -[4444.40 --> 4448.12] go somewhere unfamiliar Jesus calls us to -[4448.12 --> 4449.58] come to him -[4449.58 --> 4455.40] and my encouragement my hope the prayer for -[4455.40 --> 4457.88] you is that you may know this security -[4457.88 --> 4461.70] may you know that no matter what our -[4461.70 --> 4464.24] vulnerability is whatever that draws that -[4464.24 --> 4469.74] out that nobody can snatch you from him -[4469.74 --> 4474.20] we may have our hardships and that that -[4474.20 --> 4478.62] chaos still stays there we may know our set of -[4478.62 --> 4481.56] challenges but we trust that the good shepherd is -[4481.56 --> 4484.44] present in it and through it -[4484.44 --> 4488.58] that the good shepherd ultimately has all in -[4488.58 --> 4492.10] control after all we do belong to him -[4492.10 --> 4496.94] and with that knowledge of belonging in him -[4496.94 --> 4500.82] that's nothing new especially for those in the -[4500.82 --> 4503.12] christian reform church who are forced to -[4503.12 --> 4505.74] memorize the heidelberg catechism question and -[4505.74 --> 4509.04] answer number one it's it's something that we're -[4509.04 --> 4513.76] going to read together to finish the service here and -[4513.76 --> 4520.58] it's it's a really interesting kind of catechism note for catechism is -[4520.58 --> 4525.22] something for teaching and for those if you don't know kind of what the heidelberg -[4525.22 --> 4531.60] catechism is it was written 450 plus years ago for children to educate -[4531.60 --> 4535.78] children on who god is so they don't -[4535.78 --> 4539.42] approach it in the way that a lot of the textbooks of the day did if it was in the -[4539.42 --> 4542.72] textbooks they would say this is who god is and they would start with all -[4542.72 --> 4546.68] these definitions about god but instead the heidelberg catechism was -[4546.68 --> 4553.00] kind of unique in its approach saying well where is our comfort it points back to the -[4553.00 --> 4558.18] person it's something that's very personal in its nature and its first -[4558.18 --> 4561.88] question and answer ends up being something quite popular something that -[4561.88 --> 4565.40] points back to a great summary of where our comfort -[4565.40 --> 4567.08] truly is -[4567.08 --> 4572.32] it's a statement of belonging pointing towards -[4572.32 --> 4575.56] this ultimate belonging to our good shepherd -[4575.56 --> 4580.98] so i invite you to say these words with me hopefully you can see it from where -[4580.98 --> 4586.30] your sitting i'll read the question you can read the answer what is your only -[4586.30 --> 4593.58] comfort in life and in death that i am not my own but belong -[4593.58 --> 4602.08] body and soul in life and in death to my faithful savior jesus christ he has fully -[4602.08 --> 4608.06] paid for all my sins with his precious blood and has set me free from the -[4608.06 --> 4615.62] tyranny of the devil he also watches over me in such a way that not a hair can fall -[4615.62 --> 4623.06] from my head without the will of my father in heaven in fact all things must work together -[4623.06 --> 4633.06] for my salvation because i belong to him christ by his holy spirit assures me of eternal life and -[4633.06 --> 4638.74] makes me wholeheartedly willing and ready from now on to live for him -[4638.74 --> 4641.10] let's pray -[4641.10 --> 4651.14] lord may our belonging to you bring us to follow you where you call us -[4651.14 --> 4659.28] in the messiness of life give us the boldness we need to go where you guide -[4659.28 --> 4664.14] knowing that nothing can snatch us from your hand -[4664.14 --> 4669.34] and trusting that we know your voice when you call -[4669.34 --> 4671.02] amen -[4671.02 --> 4671.26] m -[4671.26 --> 4679.56] a -[4679.56 --> 4681.02] m -[4681.02 --> 4682.32] o -[4682.32 --> 4682.74] o -[4682.74 --> 4682.94] m -[4682.94 --> 4685.54] o -[4685.54 --> 4686.76] o -[4686.76 --> 4687.38] o -[4687.38 --> 4687.66] o -[4687.66 --> 4688.62] o -[4688.62 --> 4690.08] â -[4690.08 --> 4690.88] o -[4690.88 --> 4691.04] o -[4691.04 --> 4693.48] o -[4693.48 --> 4694.28] o -[4694.28 --> 4696.08] o -[4696.08 --> 4696.64] o -[4696.64 --> 4698.84] o -[4698.84 --> 4709.84] I have the Maker before my heart. -[4709.84 --> 4720.84] Before even time began, my life was in His hand. -[4720.84 --> 4728.84] He knows my name. -[4728.84 --> 4734.84] He knows my every thought. -[4734.84 --> 4740.84] He sees each tear that falls, -[4740.84 --> 4746.84] and hears me when I call. -[4750.84 --> 4757.84] I have a Father. -[4757.84 --> 4763.84] He calls me His own. -[4763.84 --> 4768.84] You'll never meet me, -[4768.84 --> 4775.84] no matter where I go. -[4775.84 --> 4782.84] He knows my name. -[4782.84 --> 4788.84] He knows my every thought. -[4788.84 --> 4794.84] He sees each tear that falls, -[4794.84 --> 4801.84] and hears me when I call. -[4801.84 --> 4807.84] He knows my name. -[4807.84 --> 4814.84] He knows my every thought. -[4814.84 --> 4819.84] He sees each tear that falls, -[4819.84 --> 4826.84] and hears me when I call. -[4826.84 --> 4832.84] And hears me when I call. -[4832.84 --> 4847.84] He knows my every thought. -[4847.84 --> 4849.84] He knows my every thought. -[4849.84 --> 4854.84] We are sent from here with God's word of blessing. -[4854.84 --> 4857.84] This is what the blessing is. -[4857.84 --> 4862.84] The blessing is God's word spoken through the preacher to you here, -[4862.84 --> 4866.84] so that you can be a blessing where you go. -[4866.84 --> 4868.84] It is a blessing, not a prayer, -[4868.84 --> 4872.84] so you can receive it with your eyes open and hands out, -[4872.84 --> 4874.84] as a blessing. -[4874.84 --> 4878.84] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[4878.84 --> 4881.84] The Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you. -[4881.84 --> 4885.84] The Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace. -[4885.84 --> 4887.84] Amen. -[4887.84 --> 4896.84] you round eight of citians forinci褀dinários. -[4896.84 --> 4901.42] Second playing by the -[4901.42 --> 4906.84] flames of destiny. -[4906.84 --> 4909.58] Then bring God away develop. -[4909.84 --> 4911.50] Take me by your hand, -[4911.50 --> 4914.62] hammer him toward your side, -[4914.62 --> 4925.76] I want to trust in you and all I do bring you honor and praise. -[4925.76 --> 4934.46] How I love you, great and mighty be. -[4934.46 --> 4944.62] You are faithful, through the ages he ever changed. -[4951.62 --> 4960.10] Be my guide in the dark of night, set of fear to fright you or hope and truth. -[4960.10 --> 4969.44] I want to trust in you and all I do bring you honor and praise. -[4969.44 --> 4977.44] How I love you, great and mighty be. -[4978.10 --> 4988.10] You are faithful, through the ages he ever changed. -[4988.10 --> 5003.10] Be my guide for the road ahead, share of illness, let you are just and good. -[5004.68 --> 5012.54] I want to trust in you and all I do bring you honor and praise. -[5012.54 --> 5019.54] How I love you, great and mighty be. -[5019.54 --> 5029.76] You are faithful, through the ages he ever changed. -[5029.76 --> 5036.76] How I love you, great and mighty be. -[5036.76 --> 5046.76] You are faithful, through the ages he ever changed. -[5046.76 --> 5053.76] You are faithful, through the ages he ever changed. -[5053.76 --> 5060.76] You are faithful, through the ages he ever changed. -[5061.76 --> 5065.76] You are faithful, through you and all I do now. -[5065.76 --> 5068.76] Those who are faithful, through the ages he ever changed. -[5068.76 --> 5070.76] Amen. -[5098.76 --> 5100.76] Amen. -[5128.76 --> 5130.76] Amen. -[5158.76 --> 5160.76] Amen. -[5188.76 --> 5190.76] Amen. -[5218.76 --> 5220.76] Amen. -[5248.76 --> 5250.76] Amen. -[5278.76 --> 5280.76] Amen. -[5308.76 --> 5310.76] Amen. -[5338.76 --> 5340.76] Amen. -[5368.76 --> 5370.76] Amen. -[5398.76 --> 5400.76] Amen. -[5428.76 --> 5430.76] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 15, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 15, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 791640bdf181ca4995f9cde4b45a8c0ba7af3970..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 15, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,124 +0,0 @@ -• Theme of unwavering love and acceptance from a higher power -• Emphasis on being valued and forgiven beyond measure -• Critique of striving for perfection and feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges -• Encouragement to live freely, unafraid to be oneself, in God's grace -• Reiteration of the sufficiency of God's love and mercy -• Feeling lost and uncertain at the end of a road -• Exhaustion of options and feeling like falling -• Hope and miracles in times of struggle -• God's presence and love in difficult situations -• Finding worth and identity in God's eyes -• Believing what God says about oneself despite feelings of weakness or failure -• Upcoming worship service "Revival Hymns" on October 29th at 6 p.m. -• Community art project: submit photos of non-church places for a collective art display -• Mexico mission trip details: - + Dates: March 16-25/26 - + Cost: $11.50 - + Changes due to COVID: fewer accommodations available, must book early -• Mexico mission trip activities: - + Partnering with local churches in Rosarito - + Working at an orphanage - + Breaking ground on a single-family homeless shelter for Abilino -• Reactivating the "Go" program for Mexico missions -• Age restrictions for attending an event -• Accommodations and sign-ups for the event -• Family and adult participation in the event -• Postponement of campfire worship night due to youth attendance -• Upcoming events, including Bible study and a funeral -• Introductions and welcomes from various church leaders -• Call to worship from Psalm 47 -• Clapping and shouting in joy for the Lord Most High -• Singing praises to God as King of the world -• Waiting upon the Lord for strength and deliverance -• References to God's characteristics: loving, strong, enduring, and comforting -• Invitation to come to the well of living water and satisfy spiritual thirst -• Call to bring failures and addictions to the foot of the cross -• Jesus waiting to open up to save us -• Praise and worship through song -• Reference to John 3:16 and God's love for the world -• Discussion of confessing sins and seeking forgiveness -• Reading from Psalm 66 and invitation to shout for joy -• Reflection on focusing on God's goodness in times of trouble -• Prayer for renewal and worship, with a focus on praising God's name -• Singing hymns and worship songs -• Worship song lyrics mentioning "Holy, holy forever" and "King of kings" -• Testimony from Isaac Hogewoning, a grade 10 student -• Isaac's experience at Rev Camp, led by the CLA Church -• Discussion of his Christian upbringing and personal faith journey -• The speaker struggled with living out their Christian faith and felt like they were only "talking the talk" but not "walking the walk" -• A series of events, including a friend's passing and the loss of other loved ones, led to feelings of anger, frustration, and sadness -• The speaker began questioning the meaning of life and blamed God for their struggles -• At summer camp, the speaker experienced a dramatic turnaround as they witnessed the Holy Spirit moving through middle school children and felt called to lead and be a role model to others -• The speaker received several words and visions from God, including "beautiful" and "love", which gave them confidence and clarity about their purpose in ministry -• They shared these experiences with others, including a chapel audience of 200 people, and saw the impact it had on those who heard it -• Spiritual experiences and feelings of emptiness -• Hearing the word "beautiful" multiple times -• Speaking in tongues and receiving prayer -• Understanding spiritual gifts, including interpretation and visions -• Overcoming fear to return to everyday life with a new perspective -• Embracing joy and heavenly happiness rather than worldly happiness -• Returning from spiritual experience feeling changed and wanting to serve God -• The speaker reflects on how their life was transformed when they gave their plans to God and let His plan take over. -• The Romans 8-11 verse is mentioned as a significant passage that highlights the Holy Spirit living within them and giving life to their mortal bodies. -• The speaker expresses amazement at the fact that the same Holy Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead lives in them, and this realization gave them confidence to share God's goodness with others. -• The speaker shares about how they had to learn that God was never absent from their life, even when it felt like He wasn't there, and that He still loves them despite their flaws. -• The speaker mentions a conversation about Satan's pride leading to eternal damnation, and how this realization made them understand the importance of putting God on their throne and recognizing that earthly trophies are temporary but heavenly ones are lasting. -• C.S. Lewis' quote is mentioned as an inspiration for the speaker, quoting his prayer that when they die, hell rejoices because they were out fighting against Satan's influence. -• The speaker describes their spiritual journey and how they feel closer to God -• They use the analogy of a basketball player, comparing their growth in faith to making the bench and starting full rotation -• The importance of prayer and following God's spirit are emphasized -• The speaker shares personal experiences of being raised in a Christian home and having a relationship with God -• The significance of perspective change is discussed, highlighting how it transformed their life and led them to "live out" their faith rather than just using it as a title -• Prayer for Isaac's life and leadership -• Worship song and praise to God -• Message from Deacon Mike about giving back financially -• Introduction to the Campus Reformed Ministries (formerly UBCO Chaplaincy) -• Discussion of ministry leaders Todd Statham, Curtis Met, and others -• Discussion of a powerful ministry -• Worship song with lyrics about God's name and salvation -• Explanation that following God means going where He leads -• Children's worship time discussion on who we should follow (God) -• Prayer for the day, asking for God's guidance and presence -• The Lord's blessing said together by the group -• A speaker shares a personal story about their niece Jana who has never walked in her life but is one of the happiest people they know -• The group prays for DeWinters and Hoga Warnings, two families who are experiencing difficult times -• The speaker leads a prayer thanking God for various blessings and asking for His guidance and help in daily life -• The group prays for their ministry, staff, and individuals including Chris and Rachel, Hoga Woonings, Klaus, and Dr. Ed -• The speaker mentions the wars and rumors of wars and asks God to come quickly to put an end to them -• The group prays for conviction, motivation, and change, asking God to be with them and guide Dr. Ed as he brings His word -• Curtis's last name is remembered as "Belief" with a "st" at the end -• A message from chapel is being shared, originally given by Ike and condensed for Trinity students -• Abraham's story in Genesis chapter 22, where he is called to sacrifice Isaac -• The Akedah, or binding, of Isaac and God's substitute -• The author of Hebrews' description of Abraham's faith in Hebrews 11:17-19 -• Psalm 62:11 referencing God's power and love -• An anecdote about the speaker's mother experiencing God's power and love in a moment of clarity -• Abraham's experiences, such as rescuing his nephew Lot and having a child in old age -• The merging of God's power and love in human experience -• Recalling personal experiences where the reality of God's power and love became apparent -• A recent experience of the speaker's family walking on the Pembroke Shire coast in Wales and visiting St. David's Cathedral -• The speaker had an overwhelming experience of God's power and love merging together -• The reality of God's power and love can merge in a single moment of time -• There are times when it doesn't seem like God is using his power in the service of his love, leading to questioning and doubt -• Examples given include infertility struggles, physical disabilities, and loss of life -• Abraham's faith is cited as an example of persevering through challenging circumstances despite questioning God's love -• Discussion of Abraham's experience with God and his conviction about the merger of power and love in his life -• Explanation of how goodness defines reality, even amidst suffering and pain -• Personal story about an experience of community and goodness at a Young Life event -• Distinguishing between "reality" and what appears to be real on the surface -• Encouragement to hold onto experiences of goodness and love as a basis for faith in difficult times -• The reality of God's power and love merging at a single point in time, which is Jesus Christ -• Trusting God's love despite life's challenges, including walking through the valley of shadow -• A story about a man testing the ice on a frozen lake to illustrate trusting God, even when it seems impossible -• The idea that just as we can trust God with our lives, He will also help us live with radical faithfulness and hope for the future -• Prayer for hope and manifestation of God's power and love -• Request to equip the church with powerful love -• Trust in God's plan despite difficulties and uncertainty -• Acknowledgment that all hope is in Christ -• Confession of dependence on Christ as life and salvation -• Praise and worship through song and prayer -• Blessing and guidance for those going into a new day and week -• Invocation of "Amen" repeated multiple times -• Reference to a shield, sword, fire in spirit, and God's presence -• Quote from scripture ("for these you have died") and mention of Jesus Christ as king -• Earth replying with a list of titles for Jesus (king of kings, lord, etc.) \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 15, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 15, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index de3a67905e61a38dc47a9c5b0cd801d1b80da8fc..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 15, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1981 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.00] Let us pray... -[30.00 --> 49.40] I want you as you are not as you ought to be -[49.40 --> 54.44] Won't you lay down your guard and come to me -[54.44 --> 59.96] The shame that grips you now is crippling -[59.96 --> 65.44] It breaks my heart to see you suffering -[65.44 --> 72.86] Cause I am for you, I'm not against you -[72.86 --> 78.22] If you wanna know how far my love can go -[78.22 --> 81.78] Just how deep, just how wide -[81.78 --> 85.68] If you wanna see how much you mean to me -[85.68 --> 89.48] Look at my hands, look at my side -[89.48 --> 94.96] If you could count the times that day you are forgiven -[94.96 --> 98.44] It's more than the drops in the ocean -[98.44 --> 110.12] Don't think you need to settle for a substitute -[110.12 --> 115.60] When I'm the only love that changes you -[115.60 --> 122.08] And I am for you, I'm not against you -[122.08 --> 129.08] I am for you, I'm not against you -[129.08 --> 134.56] If you wanna know how far my love can go -[134.56 --> 138.56] Just how deep, just how wide -[138.56 --> 142.36] If you wanna see how much you mean to me -[142.36 --> 145.56] Look at my hands, look at my side -[145.56 --> 150.56] If you could count the times that day you are forgiven -[150.56 --> 154.04] It's more than the drops in the ocean -[154.04 --> 155.04] It's more than the drops in the ocean -[155.04 --> 162.04] Drops in the ocean -[162.04 --> 166.72] Open your heart, it's time that we start again -[166.72 --> 174.32] Open your heart, it's time that we start again -[174.32 --> 180.26] If you wanna know how far my life can go -[180.26 --> 183.50] Just how deep, just how wide -[183.50 --> 187.74] If you wanna see how much you mean to me -[187.74 --> 191.04] Look at my hands, look at my side -[191.04 --> 196.72] If you could count the times of day you are forgiven -[196.72 --> 200.18] It's more than the drops in the ocean -[200.18 --> 208.32] The drops in the ocean -[208.32 --> 216.32] I'm crying for you -[216.32 --> 220.38] I'm not against you -[220.38 --> 224.06] I am for you -[224.06 --> 228.06] I'm not against you -[228.06 --> 236.94] You're not the only one who feels like this -[236.94 --> 240.62] Feeling like you lose more than you win -[240.62 --> 244.62] Like life is just an endless hill you climb -[244.62 --> 248.62] You try and try but never arrive -[248.62 --> 252.30] I'm telling you something -[252.30 --> 254.30] This racing, this running -[254.30 --> 256.30] Oh, you're working way too hard -[256.30 --> 258.30] You're working way too hard -[258.30 --> 260.30] And this perfection you're chasing -[260.30 --> 273.98] Is just energy wasted -[273.98 --> 277.66] Cause he loves you like you are -[277.66 --> 279.66] So go ahead and live like you're loved -[279.66 --> 283.66] It's okay to act like you've been set free -[283.66 --> 287.34] His love has made you more than enough -[287.34 --> 289.34] So go ahead and be who he made you to be -[289.34 --> 291.34] And live like you're loved -[291.34 --> 301.02] Live like you're loved -[301.02 --> 303.02] Live like you're loved -[303.02 --> 306.46] Live like you're loved. -[306.46 --> 310.46] Live like you're loved. -[310.46 --> 314.70] And live like you know you're valuable. -[314.70 --> 318.46] Like you know the one that holds your soul. -[318.46 --> 322.46] Cause mercy has called you by your name. -[322.46 --> 326.94] Don't be afraid to live in that grace. -[326.94 --> 329.50] Oh, I'm telling you something. -[329.50 --> 331.50] This God we believe in. -[331.50 --> 335.02] Yeah, he changed everything. -[335.02 --> 337.14] No more guilt, no more shame. -[337.14 --> 339.98] He took all that away. -[339.98 --> 342.46] Gave us a reason to sing. -[342.46 --> 346.78] So go ahead and live like you're loved. -[346.78 --> 350.54] It's okay to act like you've been set free. -[350.54 --> 354.46] His love has made you more than enough. -[354.46 --> 358.54] So go ahead and be who he made you to be. -[358.54 --> 362.46] And live like you're loved. -[362.46 --> 365.98] Live like you're loved. -[365.98 --> 374.06] Live like you're loved. -[374.06 --> 378.28] Live like you're loved, walk like you're free -[378.28 --> 382.30] Stay like you know who we made you to be -[382.30 --> 386.26] Live like you're loved, like you believe -[386.26 --> 390.32] His love is all that you'll ever need -[390.32 --> 393.52] So go ahead and live like you're loved -[393.52 --> 401.54] His love has made you more than enough -[404.06 --> 409.50] So go ahead and live like you're loved -[409.50 --> 414.14] It's okay to act like you've been set free -[414.14 --> 417.84] His love has made you more than enough -[417.84 --> 422.36] So go ahead and be who he made you to be -[422.36 --> 424.22] And live like you're loved -[424.22 --> 428.22] Live like you're loved -[428.22 --> 430.24] Live like you're loved -[430.24 --> 432.24] Live like you're loved -[432.24 --> 436.24] Live like you're loved -[436.24 --> 438.48] Live like you're loved -[438.48 --> 440.38] Live like you're loved -[440.38 --> 442.28] Walk like you're free -[442.28 --> 446.32] Stay like you know who we made you to be -[446.32 --> 448.40] Live like you're loved -[448.40 --> 450.40] Like you believe -[450.40 --> 454.36] His love is all that you'll ever need -[454.36 --> 456.24] Live like you're loved -[456.24 --> 460.24] Live like you're loved -[460.24 --> 462.24] Live like you're loved -[462.24 --> 464.20] When you're at the end of the road -[464.20 --> 470.20] And it's not the one that you would have chosen -[470.20 --> 472.20] When you're at the end of your road -[472.20 --> 474.20] And you're holding on -[474.20 --> 476.20] But feel like you're falling -[476.20 --> 478.20] With every option -[478.20 --> 480.20] You tried everything you know -[480.20 --> 482.20] You saw light then you lost it -[482.20 --> 484.20] But there is still hope -[484.20 --> 486.20] Like the fire -[486.20 --> 488.20] And you're not the one that you would have chosen -[488.20 --> 490.20] When you're at the end of your road -[490.20 --> 492.20] And you're holding on -[492.20 --> 494.20] But feel like you're falling -[494.20 --> 496.20] With every option exhausted -[496.20 --> 498.20] You tried everything you know -[498.20 --> 500.20] You saw light then you lost it -[500.20 --> 502.20] You saw light then you lost it -[502.20 --> 504.20] But there is still hope -[504.20 --> 508.20] Like the fire in the night -[508.20 --> 512.20] Like the ocean parted wide -[512.20 --> 514.20] Like the grave empty inside -[514.20 --> 518.20] You will see he still does -[518.20 --> 522.20] You will see he still does -[522.20 --> 524.20] Miracles -[524.20 --> 526.20] Miracles -[526.20 --> 528.20] Miracles -[528.20 --> 530.20] Miracles -[530.20 --> 533.20] Even if you don't see it now -[533.20 --> 535.20] Without a doubt -[535.20 --> 538.20] He's already moving -[538.20 --> 541.20] There's not a pain that you hold -[541.20 --> 543.20] He doesn't know -[543.20 --> 546.20] And he isn't using -[546.20 --> 550.20] With every option exhausted -[550.20 --> 554.20] You tried everything you know -[554.20 --> 558.20] So reach for something beyond it -[558.20 --> 560.20] Cause he is our hope -[560.20 --> 564.20] Like the fire in the night -[564.20 --> 568.20] Like the ocean parted wide -[568.20 --> 572.20] Like the grave empty inside -[572.20 --> 574.20] You will see he still does -[574.20 --> 576.20] Miracles -[576.20 --> 578.20] Miracles -[578.20 --> 580.20] Miracles -[580.20 --> 582.20] Miracles -[582.20 --> 584.20] Miracles -[584.20 --> 586.20] Miracles -[586.20 --> 588.20] Miracles -[588.20 --> 590.20] Miracles -[590.20 --> 592.20] Miracles -[592.20 --> 594.20] Miracles -[594.20 --> 596.20] A broken heart can be restored -[596.20 --> 600.20] A broken soul can be reborn -[600.20 --> 602.20] And greater things -[602.20 --> 604.20] And greater things are still in store -[604.20 --> 606.20] For us -[606.20 --> 608.20] For us -[608.20 --> 610.20] For us -[610.20 --> 614.20] Like the fire in the night -[614.20 --> 618.20] Like the ocean parted wide -[618.20 --> 620.20] Like the grave empty inside -[620.20 --> 624.20] You will see he still does -[624.20 --> 626.20] Miracles -[626.20 --> 630.20] Miracles -[630.20 --> 632.20] Miracles -[632.20 --> 634.20] Miracles -[634.20 --> 635.20] Miracles -[635.20 --> 636.20] Miracles -[636.20 --> 637.20] Miracles -[637.20 --> 638.20] We still don't -[638.20 --> 640.20] We still don't -[640.20 --> 641.20] We still don't -[641.20 --> 642.20] Miracles -[642.20 --> 643.20] Yeah -[643.20 --> 644.20] More than you -[644.20 --> 646.18] I've ever dreamed -[646.18 --> 648.20] More than you -[648.20 --> 650.20] I've ever been -[650.20 --> 658.20] Destin-me, destin-me, miracle -[680.20 --> 692.20] Destin-me, miracle -[692.20 --> 703.20] Destin-me, miracle -[703.20 --> 709.20] Destin-me, miracle -[709.20 --> 711.82] Never measure up. -[717.52 --> 724.72] Am I more than just the sum of every high and every low? -[730.72 --> 737.92] Remind me once again just who I am because I need to know. -[739.20 --> 747.96] Ooh, you say I am loved when I can't feel a thing. -[748.62 --> 754.48] You say I am strong when I think I am weak. -[755.20 --> 760.94] And you say I am held when I am falling short. -[761.58 --> 767.66] And when I don't belong, oh, you say I am yours. -[767.66 --> 777.42] And I believe, oh, I believe what you say of me. -[777.42 --> 780.54] I believe, I believe. -[782.22 --> 789.42] The only thing that matters now is everything you think of me. -[789.42 --> 796.42] You say I am strong when I think I am weak. -[796.42 --> 798.76] I find my worth in you. -[798.96 --> 802.22] I find my identity. -[805.18 --> 806.18] Ooh, oh. -[807.18 --> 812.66] You say I am loved when I can't feel a thing. -[813.18 --> 819.32] You say I am strong when I think I am weak. -[819.32 --> 825.96] And you say I am held when I am falling short. -[826.68 --> 832.42] When I don't belong, oh, you say I am yours. -[833.08 --> 842.28] And I believe, oh, I believe what you say of me. -[842.28 --> 842.72] Ooh. -[843.44 --> 843.80] Ooh. -[843.80 --> 846.04] Oh, I believe what you say of me. -[846.04 --> 846.60] Ooh. -[846.60 --> 847.04] Ooh. -[849.46 --> 850.04] Ooh. -[853.46 --> 854.92] Good morning, everyone. -[855.22 --> 856.32] We're all awake now. -[856.90 --> 858.68] It's good to see so many of you here today. -[858.78 --> 861.50] Welcome to Emanuel CRC Church this morning. -[861.92 --> 862.78] My name is Kevin Lobert. -[862.84 --> 863.98] I'm the youth pastor here. -[864.36 --> 868.64] And it's a pleasure to be up here this morning in front of you all, -[868.74 --> 870.98] worshiping God together and opening his word today. -[870.98 --> 874.70] I'm going to invite Brandon Muller and Josh Chamberlain to the front. -[874.82 --> 876.34] They've got an announcement each to make. -[876.92 --> 881.48] As they make their way up here, on October the 29th, -[881.52 --> 887.50] we are having a little bit of a worship service at the evening time, 6 p.m., -[887.50 --> 889.32] and we've called it Revival Hymns. -[889.82 --> 893.42] We invite all of you to come out to that, invite your neighbors and your friends. -[893.56 --> 897.28] Revival Hymns is going to be an evening where we sing old hymns -[897.28 --> 900.06] in kind of a folk country style. -[900.06 --> 901.74] So it should be a pretty fun night. -[902.18 --> 905.08] We've got some excellent leaders leading the charge for that evening. -[905.28 --> 908.68] So circle that date on your calendar, October 29th at 6 p.m. -[909.06 --> 912.34] Also a reminder, we're still putting together that community art project. -[912.98 --> 916.74] Our mission statement here at LICRC is gather, grow, go. -[916.96 --> 922.20] And we are inviting you to send in a picture of the other places you spend your time -[922.20 --> 923.28] that aren't this church. -[923.68 --> 925.08] So perhaps it's where you work. -[925.30 --> 926.42] Perhaps it's where you play. -[926.42 --> 930.78] We invite you to snap a picture or two of those places and send them into the office, -[930.78 --> 933.90] and we're going to put together a bit of an art project with that. -[934.06 --> 937.48] So Brandon, why don't you come up here right now? -[939.36 --> 940.08] All right. -[940.18 --> 943.38] So it's probably a little bit weird seeing me up here this early, -[943.50 --> 944.92] but it does mean what it means. -[945.36 --> 948.96] Mexico sign-up is starting today and running until the end of October. -[948.96 --> 951.88] So things in Mexico changed a little bit. -[952.30 --> 953.62] Accommodations have shut down because of COVID. -[953.78 --> 955.22] As a result, there's not as many to book, -[955.32 --> 957.48] which means we've got to book it early so we can beat the other churches -[957.48 --> 959.48] and be the ones to go down there. -[959.76 --> 961.08] So it is competition. -[961.24 --> 962.66] Let's go over quickly a couple of the details. -[963.46 --> 966.10] So the trip cost will be $11.50 again this year. -[966.42 --> 968.30] We're not anticipating a change in that. -[969.06 --> 970.44] The dates as well. -[971.08 --> 973.70] LCS did not mess up spring break this year, which is great. -[974.14 --> 978.22] So we're going to do March 16th, which is the Saturday we'll be leaving. -[978.62 --> 980.18] Return date is a little bit up in the air. -[980.26 --> 981.80] We can't actually book that until later. -[981.92 --> 983.52] They don't actually have flights for it yet. -[983.88 --> 986.58] But usually we anticipate the 25th or the 26th, -[986.60 --> 989.00] which is a Saturday to a Monday or Tuesday. -[989.56 --> 990.70] So we're there for two Sundays. -[991.54 --> 992.66] This year is going to be pretty cool. -[992.66 --> 995.42] We've got a lot of stuff planned already. -[996.44 --> 998.76] So the biggest one, the biggest change is we're actually getting involved -[998.76 --> 1002.18] with a lot of churches in our local area that work in Rosarito now. -[1002.18 --> 1004.98] We're going to be building like a kind of a coalition of churches, -[1005.14 --> 1006.84] whatever you want to call it, where we partner together -[1006.84 --> 1008.70] and try to help each other out in their ministries. -[1009.34 --> 1012.22] As a result, this year we'll be working with Abilino, with Jody, -[1012.62 --> 1014.24] but we'll also be going to an orphanage again, -[1014.46 --> 1016.88] which is something I think we've been missing for the last bunch of years. -[1017.40 --> 1019.86] But there's a local church that runs an orphanage down there, -[1019.90 --> 1021.62] and we'll be working with them this year too. -[1022.50 --> 1024.50] Beyond that, we'll be breaking ground on, -[1024.54 --> 1026.82] I think we've been talking about it for years, COVID kind of messed it up, -[1026.86 --> 1030.82] but we're going to be doing a single-family, single-mother, homeless shelter for Abilino. -[1030.82 --> 1032.48] We'll be breaking ground on that this year. -[1033.12 --> 1036.14] So you adults that have construction experience, please sign up this year. -[1036.20 --> 1038.24] I know you guys have been saying it for years that have been bugging you, -[1038.30 --> 1038.84] but you never do. -[1040.52 --> 1043.00] Beyond that, we're also going to reactivate goes to Mexico. -[1043.42 --> 1045.26] We're going to try to do a smaller version of it. -[1045.60 --> 1047.24] Who knows, it is Mexico, maybe it goes bigger, -[1047.38 --> 1050.48] but we're going to try to bring kind of our youth convention stuff -[1050.48 --> 1053.64] to our youth program we do down there and the youth work we do with them. -[1053.84 --> 1055.24] So that'll be cool. -[1055.40 --> 1056.16] Who can sign up? -[1056.16 --> 1058.66] That's always the big one too that we've been after the last year. -[1059.30 --> 1061.28] Technically, so it's always been grade 10 and above, -[1061.42 --> 1064.20] all the way up to whatever age you want to go at. -[1064.82 --> 1067.20] But we also do allow families to go. -[1067.28 --> 1070.34] You don't have to be, like you can be younger than grade 10, -[1070.40 --> 1072.64] you can still go, you need a parent, guardian with you. -[1073.20 --> 1075.46] So for example, I bring my daughter every year. -[1076.18 --> 1077.40] Kevin Loebers brought his daughter. -[1078.04 --> 1079.32] We've had a lot of people who's wondering, -[1079.40 --> 1080.50] hey, can I bring my family? -[1080.74 --> 1081.32] Yes, you can. -[1081.32 --> 1084.18] So the costs do change for kids a little bit. -[1084.26 --> 1086.10] They don't eat as much so we don't get charged for them, -[1086.16 --> 1087.42] things like that for a lot of stuff. -[1088.18 --> 1089.76] But we can kind of talk about that. -[1089.82 --> 1091.84] I'll have the sign up back there at the Connect desk. -[1093.12 --> 1094.92] The sign up we're not going to be doing, like, -[1095.32 --> 1097.18] I get it's a long delay in the future -[1097.18 --> 1098.88] and you can't necessarily 100% confirm. -[1099.42 --> 1102.48] But if you are 70% I am going, please sign up for it -[1102.48 --> 1104.28] so we can get our accommodations down pat. -[1104.80 --> 1107.38] And then the actual true application sign up -[1107.38 --> 1109.04] will come out in this normal time in December. -[1109.04 --> 1112.46] But, yeah, I just want to encourage families, adults, -[1112.54 --> 1114.26] even if you aren't coming with your kids, -[1114.84 --> 1116.66] everybody to kind of come to this trip this year. -[1116.84 --> 1117.54] It's going to be a big one. -[1117.58 --> 1118.50] It's going to be an awesome one. -[1119.20 --> 1120.96] And it's kind of exciting to see. -[1121.12 --> 1122.34] So that is it for me. -[1125.52 --> 1128.38] So unfortunately we have to, for the young adults, -[1128.46 --> 1131.06] we have to postpone the campfire worship night -[1131.06 --> 1133.28] to a later date that we still have to find, -[1133.90 --> 1134.84] which is sad. -[1134.84 --> 1138.62] But next Sunday is the Bible study starting back up, -[1138.82 --> 1140.46] which we'd love to have you guys there, -[1140.96 --> 1142.68] resuming where we left off from 1 Corinthians -[1142.68 --> 1144.18] at my house. -[1144.98 --> 1145.18] Yeah. -[1147.06 --> 1148.18] Josh, you're so long-winded. -[1151.38 --> 1153.36] Just a few more announcements here this morning. -[1154.06 --> 1156.24] Youth, we have 2020 tonight, -[1156.36 --> 1158.84] so do come out to the church tonight at 6.30 p.m. -[1158.84 --> 1160.46] It's our first 2020 of the year. -[1160.46 --> 1163.46] I'd love to see you all out to that tonight. -[1164.30 --> 1166.56] Congregation, we're still looking for a few volunteers. -[1166.88 --> 1169.96] I am looking for a catechism teacher -[1169.96 --> 1172.26] for the grade 9 and 10 students. -[1172.36 --> 1174.82] If that's something that you have a heart for -[1174.82 --> 1176.24] or something you've got the gifts for, -[1176.30 --> 1177.48] please come chat with me. -[1177.84 --> 1178.82] That would be awesome. -[1179.94 --> 1181.74] Finally, you might be wondering -[1181.74 --> 1184.54] where the fellow with the bigger beard, -[1184.66 --> 1186.48] who speaks more eloquently than I, -[1186.64 --> 1187.62] is this morning. -[1187.62 --> 1190.66] Pastor Chris and Rachel have headed off to Ontario. -[1190.94 --> 1191.92] They took off on Friday -[1191.92 --> 1194.50] because Rachel's grandmother passed away this week. -[1195.04 --> 1197.40] And so Pastor Chris is going to be leading the funeral. -[1197.74 --> 1199.02] The visitation is tomorrow, -[1199.16 --> 1200.62] and the funeral will be on Tuesday, -[1200.62 --> 1203.00] so you can keep our pastor and his family -[1203.00 --> 1205.00] in your prayers this week. -[1205.42 --> 1207.94] That means today we get the pleasure -[1207.94 --> 1211.26] of having Reverend Dr. Ed Gerber to the pulpit, -[1211.36 --> 1213.66] so he will be leading us in God's Word today. -[1213.82 --> 1216.34] Ed is the chaplain and director of student ministries -[1216.34 --> 1217.88] at Trinity Western University, -[1218.10 --> 1220.28] and so it's a pleasure to have you here this morning. -[1220.38 --> 1221.80] Ed, thanks for being here. -[1222.32 --> 1225.12] I'm going to invite you all to rise now, please, -[1225.18 --> 1227.32] as we receive God's greeting this morning. -[1231.72 --> 1233.94] God's greeting comes from Revelation 1. -[1234.66 --> 1237.72] Grace and peace to you from him who is -[1237.72 --> 1240.24] and who was and who is to come, -[1240.50 --> 1243.36] and from the seven spirits that are before his throne, -[1243.36 --> 1246.78] and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, -[1247.24 --> 1248.54] the firstborn of the dead, -[1248.86 --> 1251.14] and the ruler of the kings of the earth. -[1251.98 --> 1252.32] Amen. -[1252.68 --> 1253.86] As God has greeted us this morning, -[1253.96 --> 1255.76] please take a moment to greet those around you. -[1255.76 --> 1255.96] Amen. -[1255.96 --> 1256.16] Amen. -[1256.16 --> 1256.26] Amen. -[1256.26 --> 1256.46] Amen. -[1256.46 --> 1257.06] Amen. -[1257.06 --> 1258.06] Amen. -[1258.06 --> 1258.46] Amen. -[1258.46 --> 1259.06] Amen. -[1259.06 --> 1260.06] Amen. -[1260.06 --> 1261.06] Amen. -[1261.06 --> 1262.06] Amen. -[1262.06 --> 1263.06] Amen. -[1263.06 --> 1264.06] Amen. -[1264.06 --> 1265.06] Amen. -[1265.06 --> 1266.06] Amen. -[1266.06 --> 1267.06] Amen. -[1267.06 --> 1268.06] Amen. -[1268.06 --> 1269.06] Amen. -[1269.06 --> 1270.06] Amen. -[1270.06 --> 1271.06] Amen. -[1271.06 --> 1272.06] Amen. -[1272.06 --> 1273.06] Amen. -[1273.06 --> 1274.06] Amen. -[1274.06 --> 1275.06] Amen. -[1275.06 --> 1276.06] Amen. -[1276.06 --> 1277.06] Amen. -[1277.06 --> 1278.06] Amen. -[1278.06 --> 1279.06] Amen. -[1279.06 --> 1280.06] Amen. -[1280.06 --> 1281.06] Amen. -[1281.06 --> 1282.06] Amen. -[1282.06 --> 1283.06] Amen. -[1283.06 --> 1284.06] Amen. -[1284.06 --> 1285.06] Amen. -[1285.06 --> 1286.06] Amen. -[1286.06 --> 1287.06] Amen. -[1287.06 --> 1288.16] Amen. -[1288.16 --> 1289.06] Amen. -[1289.06 --> 1289.26] Amen. -[1289.26 --> 1290.26] Amen. -[1290.26 --> 1291.36] Amen. -[1291.36 --> 1294.22] Our call to worship comes from Psalm 47. -[1294.22 --> 1295.22] Amen. -[1295.22 --> 1299.46] Clap your hands, all you nations, shout to God with cries of joy. -[1299.46 --> 1302.26] For the Lord Most High is awesome, the great King of the world, -[1302.26 --> 1304.26] the great King over all the earth. -[1304.26 --> 1308.26] He subdued nations under us, peoples under our feet. -[1308.26 --> 1313.26] He chose our inheritance for us, the pride of Jacob, whom he loved. -[1313.26 --> 1319.26] God has ascended amid shouts of joy, the Lord amid the sounding of trumpets. -[1319.26 --> 1322.26] Sing praises to God, sing praises. -[1322.26 --> 1325.26] Sing praises to our King, sing praises. -[1325.26 --> 1328.26] For God is the King of all the earth. -[1328.26 --> 1330.26] Sing to him a psalm of praise. -[1330.26 --> 1331.26] Sing praises to our King of all the earth. -[1331.26 --> 1332.26] Amen. -[1332.26 --> 1333.26] We will be singing a psalm of praise. -[1333.26 --> 1335.26] We will be singing a psalm of praise. -[1335.26 --> 1336.26] by His name for God -[1336.26 --> 1337.26] and that's why. -[1337.26 --> 1338.26] black with me. -[1338.26 --> 1341.26] You're never from a prophet to the desert. -[1341.26 --> 1343.26] And you andаете belle r uncles -[1343.26 --> 1344.26] together. -[1344.26 --> 1346.26] And youνοen's songs labour. -[1346.26 --> 1348.26] A voice of Solomonдо GREGuuuu -[1348.26 --> 1349.26] and a song for earth the Lord instead of Himselfri. -[1349.26 --> 1350.26] Amen. -[1350.26 --> 1354.76] And your name is and I say, -[1354.76 --> 1363.56] upon the lord we will wait upon the lord strength arises we wait upon the lord we will wait upon the -[1363.56 --> 1377.24] lord we will wait upon the lord our god you reign forever our hope our strong deliverer -[1377.24 --> 1396.84] you are the everlasting god the everlasting god you do not faint you won't grow weary -[1398.12 --> 1405.88] you're the defender of the weak you comfort those in need -[1407.24 --> 1413.48] you lift us up on wings like we go -[1422.84 --> 1430.04] strength will rise as we wait upon the lord we will wait upon the lord we will wait upon the lord -[1430.04 --> 1436.28] we will wait upon the lord we will wait upon the lord -[1436.28 --> 1442.52] we will wait upon the lord our god -[1442.52 --> 1446.52] our hope -[1446.52 --> 1450.52] our strong deliverer -[1450.52 --> 1450.76] strength will rayAlene Baptist earths -[1450.76 --> 1452.76] fire -[1452.76 --> 1454.76] him -[1454.76 --> 1456.76] up -[1456.76 --> 1463.76] him -[1463.76 --> 1464.76] bring toward theogi -[1464.76 --> 1466.76] in -[1466.76 --> 1468.76] vir twitter -[1468.76 --> 1470.76] up -[1470.76 --> 1479.64] the defender of the weak you comfort those in me -[1479.64 --> 1483.64] you lift us up -[1486.68 --> 1495.96] you are the everlasting god the everlasting god -[1495.96 --> 1503.00] you do not faint you won't grow weary -[1503.00 --> 1512.20] you're the defender of the weak you comfort those in me -[1512.20 --> 1514.12] you lift us up -[1525.96 --> 1530.12] the -[1530.12 --> 1560.10] Come all you weary, come all you thirsty, come to the well and never untried. -[1560.12 --> 1566.12] Drink of the water, come and thirst of all. -[1569.06 --> 1577.12] Come all you sinners, come find it dirty, come to the table, we will satisfy. -[1578.28 --> 1583.60] Taste of His goodness, find what you're looking for. -[1583.60 --> 1590.60] Oh God so loved the world that He gave us. -[1590.60 --> 1595.46] He's one and only, He's time to save us. -[1595.60 --> 1600.24] Heaven believe in Him, He'll live forever. -[1600.24 --> 1607.24] Bring all your failures, bring your addictions. -[1608.50 --> 1612.32] Come lay them down at the foot of the cross. -[1612.32 --> 1618.32] Jesus is waiting to open up. -[1620.32 --> 1625.48] Oh God so loved the world that He gave us. -[1625.48 --> 1629.32] He's one and only, He's time to save us. -[1629.32 --> 1634.32] He's willing to believe in Him, He'll live forever. -[1634.32 --> 1641.32] I'm far and found, forever we need. -[1641.32 --> 1646.32] And now it is well, I'm walking in freedom. -[1646.32 --> 1651.32] Oh God so loved, God so loved the world. -[1651.32 --> 1658.32] Praise God, praise God, praise God. -[1658.32 --> 1662.32] From Him all my things flow. -[1662.32 --> 1670.32] Praise Him, praise Him, for the wonders of His love. -[1670.32 --> 1691.32] God so loved, God so loved, God so loved, God so loved. -[1691.32 --> 1694.32] For God so loved, the world that He gave us. -[1694.32 --> 1698.32] His one and only, He's time to save us. -[1698.32 --> 1703.32] For God so loved, the world that He gave us. -[1703.32 --> 1707.32] His one and only, He's time to save us. -[1707.32 --> 1712.32] Whoever we need, He'll live forever. -[1712.32 --> 1716.32] For God so loved, the world that He gave us. -[1716.32 --> 1718.32] His one and only, He's time to save us. -[1718.32 --> 1720.32] His one and only, He's time to save us. -[1720.32 --> 1724.32] And now it is well, I'm walking in freedom. -[1724.32 --> 1733.32] For God so loved, God so loved the world. -[1733.32 --> 1737.32] Bring all your failures, bring your addictions. -[1738.32 --> 1741.32] Come lay them down at the foot of the cross. -[1741.32 --> 1743.32] Jesus is waiting. -[1743.32 --> 1744.32] Jesus is waiting. -[1744.32 --> 1749.32] God so loved the world. -[1753.32 --> 1759.32] I invite you to be seated. -[1759.32 --> 1763.32] Our confession this morning comes from Psalm 66, -[1763.32 --> 1764.32] where it says, -[1764.32 --> 1767.32] Shout for joy to God all the earth. -[1767.32 --> 1769.32] Sing the glory of His name. -[1769.32 --> 1771.32] Make His praise glorious. -[1771.32 --> 1775.32] Say to God, how awesome are your deeds. -[1775.32 --> 1780.32] So great is your power that your enemies cringe before you. -[1780.32 --> 1783.32] All the earth bows down to you. -[1783.32 --> 1785.32] They sing praise to you. -[1785.32 --> 1788.32] They sing the praises of your name. -[1788.32 --> 1792.32] When Doreen and I were doing our devotions, -[1792.32 --> 1798.32] the one line that caught my eye was, -[1798.32 --> 1801.32] Shout to God with cries of joy. -[1801.32 --> 1803.32] And shout for joy to God. -[1803.32 --> 1805.32] And I found myself thinking, -[1805.32 --> 1811.32] How often am I so captivated by God's beauty, -[1811.32 --> 1813.32] so awed by His power, -[1813.32 --> 1815.32] so amazed by His love, -[1815.32 --> 1818.32] and sheltered under His wing. -[1818.32 --> 1822.32] I hate it when I get emotional. -[1822.32 --> 1828.32] That the only response is to shout for joy. -[1828.32 --> 1834.32] That praise just bubbles up from my heart. -[1834.32 --> 1841.32] And my longing is to dwell in His presence all my days. -[1841.32 --> 1844.32] And how I long this for us. -[1844.32 --> 1849.32] That we can focus on the goodness of God within the world of trouble. -[1849.32 --> 1855.32] And that we can learn to rest in His love when we bow our heads. -[1855.32 --> 1857.32] When we bow our heads. -[1857.32 --> 1862.32] Father, how easy it is for us to focus our sight. -[1862.32 --> 1864.32] Sorry, let me start over. -[1864.32 --> 1868.32] Father, how easy it is for us to lose our sight of you. -[1868.32 --> 1872.32] Our whole culture is shouting that we can make it on our own. -[1872.32 --> 1874.32] That we don't need you, Abba Father. -[1874.32 --> 1879.32] And it's easy to start thinking that life is all about our success and our comfort. -[1879.32 --> 1884.32] Making it easy to place ourselves in the pinnacle of our lives. -[1884.32 --> 1889.32] Father, forgive us for not seeing who you are. -[1889.32 --> 1897.32] For pushing you on the sideline just in case we need you. -[1897.32 --> 1903.32] Father, once again, we ask that you show us your beauty. -[1903.32 --> 1909.32] Holy Spirit, renew our hearts to shout your praise. -[1909.32 --> 1915.32] And help us to offer our lives as a sacrifice of worship to you. -[1915.32 --> 1916.32] Amen. -[1916.32 --> 1920.32] Let us stand as we sing the next few songs. -[1920.32 --> 1925.32] volume of theシgos and pバイIch wil Jeremy -[1925.32 --> 1931.32] At the Jewish temple are near the Far� out, -[1931.32 --> 1933.32] we of the elders in our live town. -[1933.32 --> 1935.32] Let us stand as a miracle's grace. -[1935.32 --> 1937.32] Let us stand as we sing the same song. -[1937.32 --> 1944.82] Falling down in worship to sing the song of ages to the land. -[1946.50 --> 1952.64] And all who've gone before us and all who will believe -[1952.64 --> 1957.64] will sing the song of ages to the land. -[1958.76 --> 1966.64] Your name is the highest, your name is the greatest, your name. -[1967.32 --> 1970.38] It stands above all. -[1971.84 --> 1979.26] All thrones and dominions of God and positions of your name -[1979.26 --> 1982.54] stands above all. -[1982.54 --> 1985.02] You shall cry. -[1985.90 --> 1991.34] Falling all creation, Christ. -[1991.34 --> 1997.20] Falling, you are dead in Christ. -[1998.40 --> 2002.94] Falling, only forever. -[2002.94 --> 2004.94] Falling, only forever. -[2004.94 --> 2005.94] Falling, only forever. -[2005.94 --> 2007.94] Falling, only forever. -[2007.94 --> 2013.94] And if you've been forgiven, and if you've been redeemed, -[2013.94 --> 2018.94] sing the song forever to the land. -[2018.94 --> 2025.94] And if you are in freedom, and if you've been redeemed, -[2025.94 --> 2030.94] sing the song forever to the land. -[2030.94 --> 2031.94] Falling, only forever. -[2031.94 --> 2032.94] Falling, only forever. -[2032.94 --> 2033.94] Sing the song forever. -[2033.94 --> 2037.94] And if you've been redeemed, and if you've been redeemed, -[2037.94 --> 2039.94] I'm holding, only forever. -[2039.94 --> 2043.94] Falling, only forever. -[2043.94 --> 2044.94] Falling, only forever. -[2044.94 --> 2046.08] I'm holding, only forever. -[2046.08 --> 2050.94] Falling, only forever. -[2050.94 --> 2057.34] Holy, holy forever -[2057.34 --> 2063.34] Hear your people sing -[2063.34 --> 2069.16] Holy, holy to the King of kings -[2069.16 --> 2075.38] Holy, you will always sing -[2075.38 --> 2081.20] Holy, holy forever -[2081.20 --> 2090.14] It's the highest of your name -[2090.14 --> 2093.20] It's the greatest of your name -[2093.20 --> 2097.30] It stands above your own -[2097.30 --> 2102.22] All the world and the millions of dollars -[2102.22 --> 2105.14] And the nations of your name -[2105.14 --> 2108.82] It stands above your own -[2108.82 --> 2111.12] Holy, holy to the King of kings -[2111.12 --> 2114.02] It's the highest of your name -[2114.02 --> 2117.08] It's the greatest of your name -[2117.08 --> 2121.28] It stands above your own -[2121.28 --> 2125.90] All the world and the millions of dollars -[2125.90 --> 2128.86] And the nations of your name -[2128.86 --> 2132.08] It stands above your own -[2132.08 --> 2136.02] And the nations of your name -[2136.02 --> 2140.06] Holy, holy to the King of kings -[2140.06 --> 2142.02] And the nations of your name -[2142.02 --> 2144.02] Holy, holy to the King of kings -[2144.02 --> 2145.96] You are risen in the Lord -[2145.96 --> 2152.00] Holy, holy forever -[2152.00 --> 2157.96] You will always sing -[2157.96 --> 2161.96] Holy, holy forever -[2161.96 --> 2163.96] Holy, holy forever -[2163.96 --> 2167.94] You will always sing -[2167.94 --> 2169.96] Holy, holy forever -[2169.96 --> 2171.96] You will always sing -[2171.96 --> 2173.96] Holy, holy forever -[2173.96 --> 2175.96] Only forever -[2175.96 --> 2185.96] Holy, holy to the King of kings -[2185.96 --> 2189.94] You will always sing -[2189.94 --> 2191.94] Holy, holy forever -[2191.94 --> 2195.94] You will always sing -[2195.94 --> 2197.94] Holy, holy forever -[2197.94 --> 2199.88] You will always sing -[2199.88 --> 2201.88] Holy, holy forever -[2201.88 --> 2202.88] You will always sing -[2202.88 --> 2203.88] Holy, holy forever -[2203.88 --> 2204.88] You will always sing -[2204.88 --> 2209.88] Holy, holy forever -[2209.88 --> 2211.88] You will always sing -[2211.88 --> 2213.88] Worthy is the man -[2213.88 --> 2214.88] Worthy is the man -[2214.88 --> 2215.88] Man who once sang -[2215.88 --> 2216.88] Holy, holy is He -[2216.88 --> 2217.88] Holy, holy is He -[2217.88 --> 2219.88] Holy, holy is He -[2219.88 --> 2222.88] Sing a new song -[2222.88 --> 2223.88] To Him who sins on -[2223.88 --> 2226.88] Sing a new song -[2226.88 --> 2228.88] Sing a new song -[2228.88 --> 2230.88] To Him who sins on -[2230.88 --> 2233.88] Heavens first and seen -[2233.88 --> 2234.88] Holy, holy else -[2234.88 --> 2238.88] Sing a new song -[2238.88 --> 2243.88] To Him who sins on -[2243.88 --> 2245.88] Heaven who sins on -[2245.88 --> 2248.88] Heaven who sins on -[2248.88 --> 2249.88] Holy, holy is He -[2249.88 --> 2251.88] Oh -[2279.88 --> 2281.88] Oh -[2309.88 --> 2311.88] Oh -[2340.88 --> 2342.88] Oh -[2344.88 --> 2346.88] I -[2346.88 --> 2364.50] Filled with wonder, awestruck wonder -[2364.50 --> 2370.98] At the mention of your name -[2370.98 --> 2376.86] Filled with wonder, awestruck wonder -[2376.86 --> 2383.52] At the mention of your name -[2383.52 --> 2386.66] Jesus, your name is power -[2386.66 --> 2389.62] And we live in wonder -[2389.62 --> 2392.50] Struck your heart with mystery -[2392.50 --> 2398.60] Holy, holy, holy -[2398.60 --> 2401.44] It's the Lord God Almighty -[2401.44 --> 2406.10] Love for gifts, gifts to come -[2406.10 --> 2411.02] All creation I see -[2411.02 --> 2413.66] Great to the King of Me -[2413.66 --> 2416.20] You are my everything -[2416.20 --> 2419.94] I live and for you -[2419.94 --> 2445.30] We have an opportunity now to hear a testimony from someone in our church. I'm going to invite up Isaac Hogewoning to the front here. -[2445.30 --> 2449.46] Isaac is a grade 10 student in our church -[2449.46 --> 2452.18] He's been coming to youth since he was able to -[2452.18 --> 2453.68] You can come right on up there, man -[2453.68 --> 2456.70] And he had quite the summer that he wants to share with you -[2456.70 --> 2458.18] So I'm just going to pray for him quick -[2458.18 --> 2460.22] And then he's going to share with us that -[2460.22 --> 2462.36] God, I just lift up Isaac to you right now -[2462.36 --> 2464.24] God, I thank you that he is up here -[2464.24 --> 2466.80] And willing to share what it is you are doing in his life -[2466.80 --> 2468.52] And I pray God that as he speaks -[2468.52 --> 2470.24] You will have us have ears to listen -[2470.24 --> 2471.94] What you are doing in his life -[2471.94 --> 2474.80] And God, may we be encouraged and convicted even -[2474.80 --> 2478.28] To live for you through Isaac's story today -[2478.28 --> 2479.80] We lift this up to you in your name -[2479.80 --> 2480.30] Amen -[2480.30 --> 2493.78] I was raised in a Christian home -[2493.78 --> 2495.38] And had to go to a church -[2495.38 --> 2497.58] My Christianity was never my own -[2497.58 --> 2502.56] August 6th to 17th were some of the most life-changing things in my life -[2502.56 --> 2505.22] I went to a youth camp called Rev Camp -[2505.22 --> 2506.98] Which is led by the CLA Church -[2506.98 --> 2509.52] Going into it, I was a dual citizen -[2509.52 --> 2513.20] I could be on fire for God one second -[2513.20 --> 2515.84] The next, I could be blending in with the crowd -[2515.84 --> 2517.56] And not acknowledge God was there -[2517.56 --> 2519.26] I called myself a Christian -[2519.26 --> 2521.32] But I never fully lived like one -[2521.32 --> 2523.28] I was able to talk the talk -[2523.28 --> 2524.42] But never walk the walk -[2524.42 --> 2528.18] I was always thinking that I was able to do things by myself -[2528.18 --> 2530.80] I got to a really low point in my life -[2530.80 --> 2534.26] I had so much anger and frustration just bubbling up from sadness -[2534.26 --> 2535.64] That I was pushed over -[2535.64 --> 2538.42] Then I was pushed overboard when my friend passed away -[2538.42 --> 2541.68] Those were some of the hardest weeks of my life -[2541.68 --> 2544.34] I wasn't able to be in my English class -[2544.34 --> 2545.30] Because I kept crying -[2545.30 --> 2547.48] Of the thought of him not going to be there -[2547.48 --> 2549.20] It brought up so many things -[2549.20 --> 2550.54] Like when my oma passed away -[2550.54 --> 2552.20] And now it's kind of coming back -[2552.20 --> 2553.74] Now that my grandma passed away too -[2553.74 --> 2556.74] I started questioning the meaning of life -[2556.74 --> 2558.34] And why I was put through all this -[2558.34 --> 2559.96] And I blamed God for everything -[2559.96 --> 2562.38] And purposely went away from him -[2562.38 --> 2563.30] Because of my anger -[2563.30 --> 2565.82] But that all changed within two weeks -[2565.82 --> 2567.46] The first week of camp -[2567.46 --> 2569.78] I was volunteering as a cabin and tribe leader -[2569.78 --> 2571.88] I had the privilege to listen, watch -[2571.88 --> 2575.48] And be a part of so many middle school children's lives being changed -[2575.48 --> 2578.34] I felt the Holy Spirit moving through them -[2578.34 --> 2579.12] All of them -[2579.12 --> 2581.12] These kids that I was leading -[2581.12 --> 2583.18] Were so hungry to know God -[2583.18 --> 2584.22] Then it hit me -[2584.22 --> 2586.24] A big gust of overwhelming love -[2586.24 --> 2587.80] That just put me into tears -[2587.80 --> 2590.70] And I verbally heard God speaking to me -[2590.70 --> 2593.90] That he wants me to lead and be a role model to others -[2593.90 --> 2595.80] Not just to like younger kids -[2595.80 --> 2596.86] But to adults -[2596.86 --> 2598.86] And kids my age too -[2598.86 --> 2601.24] It's amazing to see how God can work -[2601.24 --> 2603.10] Through kids to get his work done -[2603.10 --> 2605.42] It's absolutely beautiful to see these kids -[2605.42 --> 2606.66] Want God so badly -[2606.66 --> 2608.38] And man was an experience -[2608.38 --> 2611.32] I had the privilege to hear some kids share -[2611.32 --> 2613.16] What they're feeling -[2613.16 --> 2615.76] And I just got to pray over them -[2615.76 --> 2618.02] Those kids experienced so much -[2618.02 --> 2619.76] And were pouring out their hearts for him -[2619.76 --> 2621.88] I've never seen something like that before -[2621.88 --> 2623.44] And I just thought to myself -[2623.44 --> 2627.34] These kids are like grade 6, grade 7, and grade 8 -[2627.34 --> 2629.58] On their knees crying and praying to God -[2629.58 --> 2632.12] So what's holding me back from doing the same? -[2632.12 --> 2633.72] A couple days go by -[2633.72 --> 2635.44] And it's my turn to go as a camper -[2635.44 --> 2637.62] It was a whole sequence of events -[2637.62 --> 2638.58] That connected -[2638.58 --> 2639.90] On the first day -[2639.90 --> 2641.12] God gave me a word -[2641.12 --> 2642.28] And that word was beautiful -[2642.28 --> 2643.76] I was confused -[2643.76 --> 2645.24] Because I didn't fully understand -[2645.24 --> 2646.04] What that meant -[2646.04 --> 2647.30] And I didn't share it -[2647.30 --> 2648.86] Because I didn't even know what it meant -[2648.86 --> 2650.14] So I was scared to see -[2650.14 --> 2651.36] How other people would respond -[2651.36 --> 2652.76] The second day -[2652.76 --> 2654.80] God gave me a vision of my friends -[2654.80 --> 2656.38] At the front of a chapel like this -[2656.38 --> 2659.68] Looking at all the people -[2659.68 --> 2661.48] God has saved through them -[2661.48 --> 2663.32] That night was a night -[2663.32 --> 2664.26] Where we got to share -[2664.26 --> 2666.00] What we've been hearing about God -[2666.00 --> 2667.58] God gave me another word -[2667.58 --> 2668.18] Love -[2668.18 --> 2670.66] I went up and shared that -[2670.66 --> 2672.32] In front of around 200 people -[2672.32 --> 2674.68] That he just gave me the word love -[2674.68 --> 2677.00] And that some people were called into ministry -[2677.00 --> 2678.02] After that -[2678.02 --> 2679.74] A couple of people came up to me -[2679.74 --> 2682.66] And said they felt touched by God -[2682.66 --> 2683.90] After I shared that -[2683.90 --> 2685.74] This gave me a confidence booster -[2685.74 --> 2688.72] And let me be able to think more confidently -[2688.72 --> 2690.30] About God working in my life -[2690.30 --> 2691.90] On the third day -[2691.90 --> 2693.24] I prayed for people -[2693.24 --> 2694.96] And kept receiving that word beautiful -[2694.96 --> 2695.88] In those prayers -[2695.88 --> 2697.54] I was praying to myself -[2697.54 --> 2698.90] And felt the call -[2698.90 --> 2701.16] To ministry and leadership -[2701.16 --> 2703.72] I prayed with my youth leader Owen -[2703.72 --> 2706.04] And he confirmed that God called me -[2706.04 --> 2706.86] Into ministry -[2706.86 --> 2707.60] When he said -[2707.60 --> 2709.24] God has a great plan for you -[2709.24 --> 2710.34] I know it -[2710.34 --> 2711.24] And I see it -[2711.24 --> 2714.18] You're going to be such a strong leader -[2714.18 --> 2714.88] In your faith -[2714.88 --> 2716.12] When I heard that -[2716.12 --> 2717.60] I knew it was from God -[2717.60 --> 2718.70] The fourth night -[2718.70 --> 2719.60] Was a prayer night -[2719.60 --> 2721.78] And I listened 90% of the time -[2721.78 --> 2722.68] And to be honest -[2722.68 --> 2723.10] That night -[2723.10 --> 2724.48] I didn't feel God's presence -[2724.48 --> 2726.18] And I just felt empty -[2726.18 --> 2728.04] The fifth day -[2728.04 --> 2728.82] Was a day -[2728.82 --> 2730.02] Everything connected -[2730.02 --> 2730.92] It was like -[2730.92 --> 2732.90] Someone laid the big puzzle piece down -[2732.90 --> 2733.78] To complete it -[2733.78 --> 2736.18] I heard the word beautiful again -[2736.18 --> 2738.44] That night -[2738.44 --> 2739.16] Was -[2739.16 --> 2741.14] We were talking about spiritual gifts -[2741.14 --> 2741.94] Interpretation -[2741.94 --> 2742.40] Visions -[2742.40 --> 2743.70] And speaking in tongues -[2743.70 --> 2744.90] When the speaker -[2744.90 --> 2745.66] Was speaking -[2745.66 --> 2747.16] About tongues -[2747.16 --> 2748.58] I was just sitting to myself -[2748.58 --> 2749.28] With my friends -[2749.28 --> 2750.54] When a couple of like -[2750.54 --> 2751.14] Random words -[2751.14 --> 2751.76] Just came in my -[2751.76 --> 2752.40] My head -[2752.40 --> 2753.38] And it just seemed like -[2753.38 --> 2753.74] Gibberish -[2753.74 --> 2754.14] And like -[2754.14 --> 2755.20] Silly thoughts -[2755.20 --> 2756.06] That I think about -[2756.06 --> 2757.18] And then -[2757.18 --> 2758.48] I went to a leader -[2758.48 --> 2759.86] And he prayed over me -[2759.86 --> 2760.80] And a sentence -[2760.80 --> 2762.00] Then formed in my head -[2762.00 --> 2763.70] And it started making more sense -[2763.70 --> 2764.82] The more and more -[2764.82 --> 2766.30] People prayed over me -[2766.30 --> 2768.38] The more it started making sense -[2768.38 --> 2769.30] Then I went to pray -[2769.30 --> 2770.50] With my friend Chase -[2770.50 --> 2771.62] And the Holy Spirit -[2771.62 --> 2772.48] Came over me -[2772.48 --> 2774.56] And I just started crying -[2774.56 --> 2775.76] And praying in tongues -[2775.76 --> 2777.00] The word beautiful -[2777.00 --> 2777.76] Came up again -[2777.76 --> 2779.10] I broke down in tears -[2779.10 --> 2780.24] I surrendered myself -[2780.24 --> 2781.14] To him that night -[2781.14 --> 2782.20] After this -[2782.20 --> 2783.12] I could understand -[2783.12 --> 2784.20] More things in my life -[2784.20 --> 2785.64] I was able to pray -[2785.64 --> 2786.52] Without thoughts -[2786.52 --> 2787.16] In my mind -[2787.16 --> 2789.10] God was able to use me -[2789.10 --> 2789.72] To pray -[2789.72 --> 2791.74] For and over others -[2791.74 --> 2793.24] I was able to see -[2793.24 --> 2794.50] My friend Matthew's -[2794.50 --> 2795.98] Passing as a growing moment -[2795.98 --> 2797.34] And I miss him a lot -[2797.34 --> 2798.02] But -[2798.02 --> 2799.80] I can now see that -[2799.80 --> 2800.50] Whenever I like -[2800.50 --> 2800.94] Give -[2800.94 --> 2802.30] Or like share in life -[2802.30 --> 2803.02] I feel like -[2803.02 --> 2804.62] He's like right beside me -[2804.62 --> 2805.70] During that -[2805.70 --> 2806.40] And uh -[2806.40 --> 2806.92] Yeah -[2806.92 --> 2808.64] It makes it a lot easier -[2808.64 --> 2810.02] Um -[2810.02 --> 2813.40] But I find joy in that now -[2813.40 --> 2814.40] And -[2814.40 --> 2814.86] Yeah -[2814.86 --> 2815.66] I miss him a lot -[2815.66 --> 2816.02] But -[2816.02 --> 2818.24] I can find joy through it -[2818.24 --> 2818.96] And it's -[2818.96 --> 2820.22] It's not happiness -[2820.22 --> 2821.60] Joy to me means -[2821.60 --> 2822.64] Great pleasure -[2822.64 --> 2822.96] And like -[2822.96 --> 2823.40] Heavenly -[2823.40 --> 2824.48] Happiness -[2824.48 --> 2826.14] I find joy -[2826.14 --> 2827.34] Through the heavenly things -[2827.34 --> 2828.40] When happiness -[2828.40 --> 2829.58] Is more of an emotion -[2829.58 --> 2830.24] Of the world -[2830.24 --> 2831.96] I love these weeks -[2831.96 --> 2832.60] So much -[2832.60 --> 2833.66] But I was scared -[2833.66 --> 2834.16] To leave -[2834.16 --> 2835.98] I was scared to be back -[2835.98 --> 2836.82] In everyday life -[2836.82 --> 2837.36] And slowly -[2837.36 --> 2838.46] Stray back -[2838.46 --> 2839.10] To the ways -[2839.10 --> 2839.98] Of the world -[2839.98 --> 2841.04] But this time -[2841.04 --> 2842.22] I knew it was different -[2842.22 --> 2843.80] I came back -[2843.80 --> 2844.82] And wanted to be -[2844.82 --> 2845.64] A holding offering -[2845.64 --> 2846.30] To God -[2846.30 --> 2848.30] I started reading my Bible -[2848.30 --> 2849.04] And doing plans -[2849.04 --> 2849.66] With my friends -[2849.66 --> 2851.30] I can smile with joy -[2851.30 --> 2852.08] Through the times -[2852.08 --> 2852.96] Of hardship -[2852.96 --> 2854.94] And my plan -[2854.94 --> 2855.86] For my future -[2855.86 --> 2856.98] Was so weak -[2856.98 --> 2857.86] But once I gave it -[2857.86 --> 2858.30] To God -[2858.30 --> 2858.92] His plan -[2858.92 --> 2860.24] Was so strong -[2860.24 --> 2861.06] That no one -[2861.06 --> 2862.06] Can understand it -[2862.06 --> 2862.84] But him -[2862.84 --> 2864.48] Romans 8-11 -[2864.48 --> 2865.26] Says -[2865.26 --> 2866.32] The spirit of God -[2866.32 --> 2867.48] Who raised Jesus -[2867.48 --> 2868.12] From the dead -[2868.12 --> 2868.82] Lives in you -[2868.82 --> 2870.10] And just as God -[2870.10 --> 2870.68] Raised Christ -[2870.68 --> 2871.24] From the dead -[2871.24 --> 2872.40] He will give life -[2872.40 --> 2872.84] To you -[2872.84 --> 2874.14] Your mortal bodies -[2874.14 --> 2875.50] By the same spirit -[2875.50 --> 2876.40] Living within you -[2876.40 --> 2877.24] And like -[2877.24 --> 2878.08] I love this verse -[2878.08 --> 2879.04] When I was reading it -[2879.04 --> 2880.02] I like -[2880.02 --> 2880.84] Had to read it -[2880.84 --> 2881.50] Three times -[2881.50 --> 2882.12] And then I went -[2882.12 --> 2882.86] Into ESV -[2882.86 --> 2884.14] And I had to read it again -[2884.14 --> 2884.56] Because it just -[2884.56 --> 2885.34] Hit me so hard -[2885.34 --> 2886.34] And it's so cool -[2886.34 --> 2887.96] Just to think that -[2887.96 --> 2889.98] The same Holy Spirit -[2889.98 --> 2890.86] That left Jesus -[2890.86 --> 2892.10] Out from the grave -[2892.10 --> 2893.34] Is living in us -[2893.34 --> 2895.12] To the day to day life -[2895.12 --> 2896.04] And like -[2896.04 --> 2896.60] This was like -[2896.60 --> 2897.42] Another big boost -[2897.42 --> 2897.94] Of confidence -[2897.94 --> 2899.16] Just to like -[2899.16 --> 2899.72] Go out -[2899.72 --> 2901.28] And share God's goodness -[2901.28 --> 2903.70] Something that has -[2903.70 --> 2904.28] Always been hard -[2904.28 --> 2904.64] For me -[2904.64 --> 2905.38] To learn -[2905.38 --> 2906.30] Is that -[2906.30 --> 2907.54] God never left us -[2907.54 --> 2908.62] He was never -[2908.62 --> 2909.96] Not present in our lives -[2909.96 --> 2911.72] When it feels like -[2911.72 --> 2912.68] He's not there -[2912.68 --> 2913.74] I had to know -[2913.74 --> 2914.12] That -[2914.12 --> 2915.30] I had to know -[2915.30 --> 2916.06] Here and here -[2916.06 --> 2916.42] That -[2916.42 --> 2918.26] He's still with me -[2918.26 --> 2919.78] I gave God -[2919.78 --> 2920.58] A million reasons -[2920.58 --> 2921.80] Not to love me -[2921.80 --> 2922.24] And he still -[2922.24 --> 2922.80] Find a way -[2922.80 --> 2923.90] To reach out to me -[2923.90 --> 2926.40] Another thing -[2926.40 --> 2927.58] That goes along -[2927.58 --> 2927.96] With that -[2927.96 --> 2928.36] Was -[2928.36 --> 2929.84] I was listening -[2929.84 --> 2930.42] In the chapel -[2930.42 --> 2930.78] And -[2930.78 --> 2932.26] It was -[2932.26 --> 2933.34] The speaker -[2933.34 --> 2933.92] Was saying -[2933.92 --> 2934.86] Satan got -[2934.86 --> 2936.02] Eternal damnation -[2936.02 --> 2937.22] For pride -[2937.22 --> 2937.66] And he -[2937.66 --> 2938.88] Went putting himself -[2938.88 --> 2940.08] In the place of God -[2940.08 --> 2940.90] And what I really -[2940.90 --> 2941.80] Needed to realize -[2941.80 --> 2942.86] Was for God -[2942.86 --> 2943.50] To be put on -[2943.50 --> 2944.34] My throne -[2944.34 --> 2946.02] I realized that -[2946.02 --> 2946.80] Any trophy -[2946.80 --> 2947.56] In this world -[2947.56 --> 2948.26] Looks nice -[2948.26 --> 2949.20] And it's a good -[2949.20 --> 2950.12] Temporary thing -[2950.12 --> 2951.26] But really -[2951.26 --> 2952.84] Any trophy of heaven -[2952.84 --> 2953.42] Is way -[2953.42 --> 2954.12] Way better -[2954.12 --> 2955.64] It really hit me -[2955.64 --> 2956.58] When C.S. Lewis -[2956.58 --> 2957.28] Said -[2957.28 --> 2958.54] My prayer is -[2958.54 --> 2960.42] My prayer is -[2960.42 --> 2961.88] That when I die -[2961.88 --> 2962.54] All of hell -[2962.54 --> 2963.04] Rejoices -[2963.04 --> 2964.04] That I'm out to fight -[2964.04 --> 2965.44] I love that -[2965.44 --> 2966.20] Because it's crazy -[2966.20 --> 2966.84] To see how -[2966.84 --> 2967.62] Scared like -[2967.62 --> 2968.48] The devil is -[2968.48 --> 2969.00] From us -[2969.00 --> 2970.04] To grow closer -[2970.04 --> 2971.06] In a relationship -[2971.06 --> 2971.68] With God -[2971.68 --> 2973.14] And that always -[2973.14 --> 2973.76] Just keeps -[2973.76 --> 2974.44] Keeps me -[2974.44 --> 2975.46] Wanting to get -[2975.46 --> 2976.28] Closer and closer -[2976.28 --> 2976.88] With God -[2976.88 --> 2981.24] How I see -[2981.24 --> 2982.00] It -[2982.00 --> 2982.60] Another way -[2982.60 --> 2983.20] For me to see -[2983.20 --> 2983.60] It is -[2983.60 --> 2984.30] Like basketball -[2984.30 --> 2985.36] Terms -[2985.36 --> 2985.72] Is -[2985.72 --> 2986.58] Before -[2986.58 --> 2987.36] I was -[2987.36 --> 2988.02] Like a reserve -[2988.02 --> 2988.66] On the team -[2988.66 --> 2990.02] To making the bench -[2990.02 --> 2991.64] Being the sixth man -[2991.64 --> 2992.74] And now I'm starting -[2992.74 --> 2994.02] To be in full rotation -[2994.02 --> 2995.86] And yeah -[2995.86 --> 2997.10] I really like that -[2997.10 --> 2997.66] Because it -[2997.66 --> 2998.60] Helps me -[2998.60 --> 2999.22] See it -[2999.22 --> 2999.92] Way easier -[2999.92 --> 3000.96] Because I'm a basketball guy -[3000.96 --> 3002.20] So it helps me -[3002.20 --> 3003.26] Like a physical -[3003.26 --> 3003.88] Thing -[3003.88 --> 3004.70] To see -[3004.70 --> 3006.00] And now I just -[3006.00 --> 3006.70] Always starting -[3006.70 --> 3007.30] To get better -[3007.30 --> 3008.88] I pray now -[3008.88 --> 3009.86] That I will be -[3009.86 --> 3010.54] A dual citizen -[3010.54 --> 3011.04] Still -[3011.04 --> 3012.16] But not to flip -[3012.16 --> 3012.46] Flop -[3012.46 --> 3013.18] Between -[3013.18 --> 3014.04] The things -[3014.04 --> 3014.50] Of the world -[3014.50 --> 3015.26] And God -[3015.26 --> 3016.62] But that I'm here -[3016.62 --> 3017.56] On this earth -[3017.56 --> 3018.50] Not of the world -[3018.50 --> 3019.38] But on the earth -[3019.38 --> 3020.40] And a citizen -[3020.40 --> 3021.00] At heaven -[3021.00 --> 3022.08] At the same time -[3022.08 --> 3023.26] I'll follow -[3023.26 --> 3024.32] Where his spirit -[3024.32 --> 3024.92] Leads me -[3024.92 --> 3026.18] Broken as I may be -[3026.18 --> 3027.14] I will give him -[3027.14 --> 3027.68] Everything -[3027.68 --> 3029.66] Philippians 2.13 -[3029.66 --> 3030.42] Says -[3030.42 --> 3031.42] For God is working -[3031.42 --> 3031.92] In you -[3031.92 --> 3033.04] Giving you desire -[3033.04 --> 3033.62] And the power -[3033.62 --> 3034.52] To do what -[3034.52 --> 3035.36] Pleases him -[3035.36 --> 3036.10] And man -[3036.10 --> 3036.88] Can I tell you -[3036.88 --> 3038.48] He sure is working -[3038.48 --> 3039.66] I am raised -[3039.66 --> 3040.52] In a Christian home -[3040.52 --> 3041.12] And I get -[3041.12 --> 3042.20] To go to church -[3042.20 --> 3043.36] I have a relationship -[3043.36 --> 3044.10] With God -[3044.10 --> 3045.40] Perspective changed -[3045.40 --> 3045.92] My life -[3045.92 --> 3047.38] I've never walked alone -[3047.38 --> 3048.48] And I can lean back -[3048.48 --> 3049.74] In his loving arms -[3049.74 --> 3051.34] Of a good father -[3051.34 --> 3052.52] I gave God -[3052.52 --> 3053.38] A million reasons -[3053.38 --> 3054.96] To not love me -[3054.96 --> 3055.52] And he still -[3055.52 --> 3055.96] Find a way -[3055.96 --> 3056.60] To reach out -[3056.60 --> 3058.64] And he chose me -[3058.64 --> 3060.70] I didn't find Jesus -[3060.70 --> 3061.88] Jesus found me -[3061.88 --> 3062.56] It's all about -[3062.56 --> 3063.26] My perspective -[3063.26 --> 3063.90] That changed -[3063.90 --> 3065.28] I felt the big change -[3065.28 --> 3065.80] When I started -[3065.80 --> 3066.46] Living out -[3066.46 --> 3067.58] Being a Christian -[3067.58 --> 3068.40] Not using it -[3068.40 --> 3069.02] As a title -[3069.02 --> 3070.34] I used my Christianity -[3070.34 --> 3071.16] For a title -[3071.16 --> 3073.08] For a very long time -[3073.08 --> 3074.36] And I went through -[3074.36 --> 3074.88] The motions -[3074.88 --> 3076.36] Of being that good kid -[3076.36 --> 3077.92] I followed Jesus -[3077.92 --> 3079.70] And we got a good -[3079.70 --> 3080.56] Strong relationship -[3080.56 --> 3081.76] Happening between us -[3081.76 --> 3083.38] It's not what we do -[3083.38 --> 3084.44] For him that matters -[3084.44 --> 3085.38] It's what he's -[3085.38 --> 3086.68] Done for us -[3086.68 --> 3087.72] And what he is doing -[3087.72 --> 3088.32] In us -[3088.32 --> 3101.52] I'm going to pray -[3101.52 --> 3102.22] Again for Ike -[3102.22 --> 3103.04] And then I'm going -[3103.04 --> 3103.50] To invite the worship -[3103.50 --> 3103.94] Team forward -[3103.94 --> 3104.34] We're going to sing -[3104.34 --> 3104.66] A song -[3104.66 --> 3106.28] God I thank you -[3106.28 --> 3107.04] So much for what -[3107.04 --> 3107.90] You're doing in Isaac's -[3107.90 --> 3108.60] Life and I thank you -[3108.60 --> 3109.26] For the spirit -[3109.26 --> 3110.30] That is moving in him -[3110.30 --> 3110.58] God -[3110.58 --> 3111.80] As he is feeling -[3111.80 --> 3112.98] Called into leadership -[3112.98 --> 3114.00] Called into ministry -[3114.00 --> 3114.74] And called just to -[3114.74 --> 3115.52] Serve you in his -[3115.52 --> 3116.02] Every day -[3116.02 --> 3117.52] We pray that your spirit -[3117.52 --> 3118.52] Always be in him -[3118.52 --> 3119.64] As you promised it to be -[3119.64 --> 3120.48] And may he continue -[3120.48 --> 3121.62] To seek you first -[3121.62 --> 3122.32] In all things -[3122.32 --> 3123.92] Thank you for his joy -[3123.92 --> 3124.62] For his heart -[3124.62 --> 3125.32] For his willingness -[3125.32 --> 3126.54] To share this story -[3126.54 --> 3127.74] God we pray that -[3127.74 --> 3128.62] All of us can leave -[3128.62 --> 3129.00] Here today -[3129.00 --> 3129.92] Just so encouraged -[3129.92 --> 3130.64] By what you're doing -[3130.64 --> 3131.28] In his life -[3131.28 --> 3132.88] And Lord -[3132.88 --> 3133.38] What you're doing -[3133.38 --> 3134.52] In our lives as well -[3134.52 --> 3136.08] May we share our stories -[3136.08 --> 3136.94] With each other -[3136.94 --> 3138.30] So that we can just be -[3138.30 --> 3140.86] So we can be encouraged -[3140.86 --> 3141.94] In our walk of faith -[3141.94 --> 3143.28] God thank you for Isaac -[3143.28 --> 3144.30] Continue to walk -[3144.30 --> 3145.08] Alongside him -[3145.08 --> 3146.58] And we pray a blessing -[3146.58 --> 3147.54] Over him in your name -[3147.54 --> 3148.06] Amen -[3148.06 --> 3152.40] Am I on? -[3152.94 --> 3154.10] Does that not want -[3154.10 --> 3155.26] That will make you want -[3155.26 --> 3156.48] To praise God? -[3156.78 --> 3157.80] Let's stand and worship -[3157.80 --> 3176.30] We are the moment -[3176.30 --> 3179.64] You are forever -[3179.64 --> 3183.48] Lord of the ages -[3183.48 --> 3185.80] God before time -[3185.80 --> 3189.68] We are a faithful -[3189.68 --> 3193.04] You are eternal -[3193.04 --> 3195.80] Love everlasting -[3195.80 --> 3200.80] Reigning on high -[3200.80 --> 3206.80] Holy, holy, Lord God Almighty -[3206.80 --> 3214.18] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[3214.18 --> 3219.08] I will pray to the earth -[3219.08 --> 3224.80] Be unto your name -[3224.80 --> 3230.80] Be unto your name -[3230.80 --> 3239.98] We are the broken -[3239.98 --> 3242.80] You are the healer -[3242.80 --> 3245.80] Jesus Redeemer -[3245.80 --> 3248.80] Mighty you save -[3248.80 --> 3253.04] You are the love song -[3253.04 --> 3255.80] We'll sing forever -[3255.80 --> 3257.04] Now lieber -[3257.04 --> 3257.12] Bow in before you -[3257.12 --> 3257.70] Vowing him -[3257.70 --> 3259.76] Beloved him -[3259.76 --> 3260.42] Whenever you are the third -[3260.42 --> 3261.82] Blessed your name -[3261.82 --> 3262.88] Amen -[3262.88 --> 3265.68] Lord for all -[3265.68 --> 3266.26] Holy, holy -[3266.26 --> 3267.22] Lord God almighty -[3267.22 --> 3269.00] You are the holy -[3269.00 --> 3269.80] Human -[3269.80 --> 3270.26] Baby you are the тр Ќle blood -[3270.26 --> 3270.92] Thank you, Steve and what得 -[3270.92 --> 3271.36] You are thecuaro -[3271.36 --> 3276.18] He is the last word once saved -[3276.18 --> 3282.50] Highest praises on earth and lowly -[3282.50 --> 3287.20] Be unto your name -[3287.20 --> 3294.18] Be unto your name -[3294.18 --> 3299.78] Holy, holy Lord God almighty -[3299.78 --> 3306.46] Worthy is the last word once saved -[3306.46 --> 3312.86] Highest praises on earth and lowly -[3312.86 --> 3318.46] Be unto your name -[3318.46 --> 3324.66] Be unto your name -[3324.66 --> 3330.34] Be unto your name -[3330.34 --> 3332.84] Invite you to be seated -[3332.84 --> 3349.66] Good morning, my name is Mike and I am a deacon here at the church -[3349.66 --> 3355.96] And we have an opportunity now to respond and give back financially in response to what God has done for us -[3355.96 --> 3363.40] So this morning we're going to collect a offering for the Campus Reformed Ministries -[3363.40 --> 3367.10] Which is formerly known as the UBCO Chaplaincy -[3367.10 --> 3370.80] I think our church has been supporting this ministry for many years -[3370.80 --> 3373.56] And it is run by Todd Statham -[3373.56 --> 3375.50] And actually more recently Curtis -[3375.50 --> 3376.72] Met left -[3376.72 --> 3377.74] I can never say -[3377.74 --> 3379.94] Melista -[3379.94 --> 3380.64] Oh yeah -[3380.64 --> 3384.00] Known the guy for years and I can still not say his last name -[3384.00 --> 3387.08] Anyway, he formerly he was working at Willoughby -[3387.08 --> 3389.46] He has actually moved up there and he's also part of it now too -[3389.46 --> 3390.24] So -[3390.24 --> 3397.32] Todd and Curtis and other ministry leaders get involved in leading discussion groups, prayer groups -[3397.32 --> 3406.92] And sort of meeting a lot of students where they're at in their day-to-day in in usually a time of exploration and figuring out faith and figuring out life -[3406.92 --> 3412.26] So it's a pretty powerful ministry that they run there. So thank you for giving up your gifts this morning -[3412.26 --> 3430.98] Lord I lift your name all high -[3430.98 --> 3435.86] Lord I love to sing your praises -[3435.86 --> 3441.86] I'm so glad you're in my life -[3441.86 --> 3447.46] I'm so glad you came to save us -[3447.46 --> 3453.56] You came from heaven to earth to show the way -[3453.56 --> 3459.04] From the earth to the cross I can't sing -[3459.04 --> 3461.90] From the cross to the grave -[3461.90 --> 3464.58] From the grave to the sky -[3464.58 --> 3469.04] Lord I lift your name all high -[3469.04 --> 3477.94] Lord I lift your name all high -[3477.94 --> 3481.72] Lord I love to sing your praises -[3481.72 --> 3483.72] I'm so glad you're in my life -[3483.72 --> 3488.72] I'm so glad you came to save us -[3488.72 --> 3493.72] I'm so glad you came to save us -[3493.72 --> 3499.72] You came from heaven to earth to show the way -[3499.72 --> 3504.72] From the earth to the cross I can't sing -[3504.72 --> 3506.72] I lift your name all high -[3506.72 --> 3507.72] From the cross to the grave -[3507.72 --> 3511.72] From the grave to the sky -[3511.72 --> 3515.72] Lord I lift your name all high -[3515.72 --> 3521.72] You came from heaven to earth to show the way -[3521.72 --> 3525.72] From the earth to the cross I can't sing -[3525.72 --> 3540.72] My name to the grave -[3540.72 --> 3542.72] From the cross to the grave -[3542.72 --> 3546.72] From the earth to the cross I can't sing -[3546.72 --> 3558.02] My name today, from the cross to the grave, from the grave to the sky, Lord, I lift your name on high. -[3560.30 --> 3564.02] Lord, I lift your name on high. -[3565.96 --> 3569.52] Lord, I lift your name on high. -[3569.52 --> 3599.50] Lord, I lift your name on high. -[3599.52 --> 3629.50] Lord, I lift your name on high. -[3629.50 --> 3659.48] Lord, I lift your name on high. -[3659.48 --> 3661.40] That's quite the trip. -[3661.78 --> 3663.10] How did you manage that? -[3663.64 --> 3667.38] Turns out when you follow someone, you go where they go. -[3667.90 --> 3670.76] Oh, well, that's just that simple, isn't it? -[3671.44 --> 3674.06] Do you know what we're going to talk about today in Children's Worship Time? -[3674.62 --> 3675.86] Who do we follow? -[3675.86 --> 3679.14] Yeah. -[3680.56 --> 3683.54] I don't know. I followed the guy with the stick. -[3684.00 --> 3687.18] Yeah. And where did that get you? Stuck in a suitcase. -[3689.60 --> 3691.90] So we're going to talk about who we should be -[3691.90 --> 3694.64] following today in children's worship time. Does that sound fun? -[3695.00 --> 3699.84] Does that sound good, kids? Yeah? Okay. I'm going to pray and then we're going to do the Lord's blessing -[3699.84 --> 3703.48] and then we'll head off to children's worship time, okay? Sounds good. Alright, let's pray. -[3703.48 --> 3707.84] Dear God, thank you so much for this day. Thank you that we could be in church this morning, -[3708.08 --> 3711.56] that we could already hear stories about how you're moving in people's life and how -[3711.56 --> 3715.58] when we follow you, you do wonderful things. God, we pray that you will be -[3715.58 --> 3719.64] with us as we learn that. Be with the adults who are staying back here. Be with -[3719.64 --> 3723.48] Reverend Dr. Ed Gerber too as he shares your word. May we all learn -[3723.48 --> 3727.56] how it is that we should be following you every day. We pray this in your name. -[3727.92 --> 3729.44] Amen. Say bye to Hank. -[3729.44 --> 3734.48] Bye. Bye, kids. Now stand up. Let's do the Lord's blessing together, okay? -[3735.48 --> 3739.26] Here we go. Hands out. And we'll say together one, two, three. -[3739.26 --> 3742.08] The Lord be with you. -[3742.08 --> 3744.08] And also with you. -[3744.08 --> 3745.48] Amen. -[3745.48 --> 3746.08] Amen. -[3746.08 --> 3747.08] Amen. -[3747.08 --> 3748.08] Amen. -[3748.08 --> 3749.08] Amen. -[3749.08 --> 3750.08] Amen. -[3750.08 --> 3751.08] Amen. -[3751.08 --> 3752.08] Amen. -[3752.08 --> 3753.08] Amen. -[3753.08 --> 3754.08] Amen. -[3754.08 --> 3755.08] Amen. -[3755.08 --> 3756.08] Amen. -[3756.08 --> 3757.08] Amen. -[3757.08 --> 3758.08] Amen. -[3758.08 --> 3759.08] Amen. -[3759.08 --> 3759.42] Amen. -[3759.44 --> 3770.02] Good. -[3770.02 --> 3772.06] He left it on. -[3772.06 --> 3774.80] Good. He left it on. -[3774.80 --> 3779.58] Morning. My name's Dick and I am a child of God, and I am a member here. -[3780.70 --> 3783.54] And, Isaac, praise God. -[3783.54 --> 3784.84] Awesome. -[3784.84 --> 3789.04] I just want to go over some of the stuff that was in the bulletin, -[3789.04 --> 3792.38] And we are very thankful for Grayson, the birth of Grayson. -[3793.30 --> 3799.58] He was premature, and we pray for him, his family, his entire family, that things may go well. -[3800.70 --> 3807.54] Rosavita and others who struggle with health concerns, some we know about, some we don't. -[3809.00 --> 3814.06] And we would also like to pray for those who are not as mobile as they would like to be. -[3814.06 --> 3823.80] I just want to mention, and I probably did this years ago already, but I have a niece, and her name is Jana. -[3824.30 --> 3826.56] And she's going to be 35 years old pretty quick. -[3827.36 --> 3831.38] And she has never walked a single step in her life. -[3831.86 --> 3838.50] So if you think you've got issues, and she is one of the happiest people I know, imagine that. -[3838.50 --> 3848.92] I want to pray for DeWinters, who are traveling today, as they say goodbye to Rachel's grandma. -[3849.96 --> 3856.14] And I want to pray also for Hoga Warnings, who this past week also said goodbye to a mom and grandma and wife. -[3858.16 --> 3859.36] And let's pray. -[3859.36 --> 3864.80] Our Father, Lord, in heaven, Lord, thank you. -[3865.70 --> 3867.46] Thank you we can be here this morning. -[3867.62 --> 3869.00] Thank you we can sing your praises. -[3869.58 --> 3870.74] Thank you we can worship you. -[3870.84 --> 3872.26] Thank you we can hear testimonies. -[3874.12 --> 3876.38] Lord, we pray we help and guide each one of us. -[3876.50 --> 3882.30] Lord, the stuff that's going on in the world, Israel, Ukraine, all these different places, Lord. -[3882.30 --> 3889.76] Lord, we pray for you to come quickly, because things don't get any better down here. -[3892.74 --> 3896.50] Lord, and will you give us lists of people to pray for? -[3896.74 --> 3899.58] Lord, the easiest thing we can do on our own is pray. -[3900.64 --> 3903.16] Nobody has to see us, nobody has to hear us except you. -[3903.66 --> 3905.02] We thank you that you do, Lord. -[3905.68 --> 3907.60] And if we don't have a list, help us to make one. -[3907.60 --> 3912.18] Lord, lead us and guide us in our walk. -[3912.32 --> 3918.14] If we go to school, or if we teach, or if we go to work, or if we work in the house, or whatever we do. -[3918.20 --> 3919.40] Whatever you have called us to do. -[3919.52 --> 3921.72] Maybe you haven't called us yet, but Lord, please do. -[3922.70 --> 3924.22] Lord, but we can all have your word. -[3924.32 --> 3929.60] We can all have your leading hand that you... -[3929.60 --> 3931.98] And then, Lord, just help us to trust and obey. -[3932.50 --> 3934.34] It's that simple, but it's not simple, Lord. -[3934.34 --> 3935.36] We make it so difficult. -[3935.36 --> 3939.50] Lord, we pray for our ministry here. -[3939.72 --> 3941.22] We pray for our staff here. -[3941.32 --> 3947.08] We pray for Chris and Rachel, especially right now, as they go say goodbye to someone who has meant a lot to them. -[3948.32 --> 3954.80] Lord, we thank you that we could share with Hoga Woonings and their family this week. -[3955.60 --> 3956.92] Lord, we pray for each one of them. -[3957.06 --> 3957.78] We pray for Klaus. -[3958.02 --> 3962.54] Lord, when you've been with somebody for so long, and then all of a sudden you're alone. -[3962.54 --> 3966.08] Lord, will you help and guide us? -[3966.16 --> 3967.84] Will you walk with us? -[3967.92 --> 3968.64] Will you lead us? -[3968.74 --> 3970.70] Will you take our hand, Lord? -[3970.94 --> 3972.18] Will you help us to trust you? -[3974.26 --> 3977.10] Lord, we pray for the wars, rumors of wars. -[3977.54 --> 3983.08] And we know there will never be an end to them until you come back, Lord. -[3983.18 --> 3984.68] And then all that stops. -[3986.08 --> 3989.54] Lord, sometimes we're a little bit nervous thinking about you coming back because are we ready? -[3989.54 --> 3993.40] Maybe we're having a good time down here. -[3993.52 --> 3994.60] Maybe we don't want you to come. -[3995.62 --> 3996.26] Lord, help us. -[3996.34 --> 3996.90] Change us. -[3999.76 --> 4000.44] Motivate us. -[4000.96 --> 4001.66] Convict us. -[4003.28 --> 4007.58] Lord, as we think about you today, thank you that you always think about us. -[4008.22 --> 4012.28] Lord, it's incomprehensible how you know each one of us. -[4012.34 --> 4012.98] You know our name. -[4013.12 --> 4016.14] You know what we're doing, what we're not doing, what we shouldn't be doing. -[4016.14 --> 4022.58] Lord, we ask you to be with Dr. Ed this morning as he brings your word. -[4023.72 --> 4024.84] Lord, may you convict us. -[4024.92 --> 4026.14] May you convict him. -[4026.30 --> 4029.26] Will you help lead and guide him? -[4029.36 --> 4031.32] Lord, thank you that we can be part of Emmanuel. -[4031.54 --> 4032.98] Thank you that you call us. -[4034.28 --> 4043.06] Give us the strength and the wisdom and the insight and the drive to share your word when we're able. -[4044.00 --> 4045.50] Thank you for your love and care, Lord. -[4046.16 --> 4047.18] Thank you in Jesus' name. -[4047.30 --> 4047.48] Amen. -[4067.04 --> 4067.78] Well, good morning. -[4068.82 --> 4070.84] It's good to see you and it's great to be with you. -[4070.90 --> 4071.90] A couple of things as I begin. -[4071.90 --> 4075.12] First of all, please feel free to simply call me Ed. -[4075.90 --> 4076.74] That's enough. -[4077.32 --> 4082.04] This Reverend Doctor stuff is great, but Ed is my name and you're free to use it. -[4082.10 --> 4083.34] Please feel free to use it. -[4084.04 --> 4086.76] Also, was it Tim who did the offering thing? -[4088.20 --> 4088.92] Here's Ike. -[4089.16 --> 4089.38] Sorry. -[4089.94 --> 4090.38] Mike. -[4090.52 --> 4092.22] Okay, so we have Mike and Ike, not Tim. -[4092.72 --> 4092.96] All right. -[4092.96 --> 4096.20] But here's a helpful way to remember Curtis's last name. -[4097.58 --> 4099.10] Belief with a st at the end. -[4101.10 --> 4103.00] It's belief-sta, malief-sta. -[4103.26 --> 4104.28] So that's one way there. -[4104.74 --> 4108.82] And then third, I don't know why you needed me here this morning. -[4108.82 --> 4114.14] I think Ike already brought a very profound, very deep, a very wonderful message. -[4114.60 --> 4115.70] So thank you for that. -[4116.18 --> 4117.42] That will stay with us. -[4117.84 --> 4119.66] And then finally, I'm just noticing the time. -[4120.54 --> 4123.14] Have I really got six minutes to preach this out? -[4123.14 --> 4129.14] I think I can do it, but it might not give the kids enough time, so I'll try and expand -[4129.14 --> 4129.76] a little bit. -[4130.04 --> 4134.30] And just in that regard, I want to say, are there any Trinity students here who were at -[4134.30 --> 4135.48] chapel a week and a half ago? -[4137.08 --> 4138.34] Just one, my own daughter. -[4138.48 --> 4138.92] Okay, good. -[4138.96 --> 4140.10] I'm not going to feel too badly. -[4141.30 --> 4145.34] Because what you're getting this morning, Chris called me on Friday morning and asked me if -[4145.34 --> 4145.90] I would do this. -[4145.94 --> 4147.10] I'm like, oh my goodness, I don't know. -[4147.16 --> 4148.08] That's not a lot of time. -[4148.08 --> 4154.80] So I am taking what was a seven-minute message in chapel and stretching it out and filling -[4154.80 --> 4156.96] it out a little bit more for us this morning. -[4157.24 --> 4163.92] So we at Trinity Western University in our chapel time have been looking at Hebrews chapter -[4163.92 --> 4168.80] 11, which talks about, as you may know, the heroes of the faith. -[4169.36 --> 4173.24] In chapter 12, those who are called the great cloud of witnesses. -[4173.24 --> 4180.80] The story behind the figure we're looking at today, who is Abraham, is when after Abraham -[4180.80 --> 4187.54] and Sarah had been given the gift of the long-awaited poor child, Isaac, God comes to Abraham in -[4187.54 --> 4191.60] Genesis chapter 22, and he speaks a nightmare. -[4192.50 --> 4195.10] He speaks a horror to Abraham. -[4195.28 --> 4201.20] He says, take your son, your only son, the son whom you love, up on Mount Moriah and sacrifice -[4201.20 --> 4202.42] your only son. -[4202.42 --> 4207.10] Jewish tradition calls this story the Akedah, and they call it the Akedah because it's called -[4207.10 --> 4208.20] the binding. -[4208.52 --> 4215.32] When Abraham goes so far as to lay his son down on the altar, ties him up to sacrifice -[4215.32 --> 4219.32] him, and then God stops him and brings about a substitute. -[4220.36 --> 4228.70] So I invite you to hear how the author of Hebrews remembers the nature of Abraham's faith in -[4228.70 --> 4231.42] this passage and how then we can learn from this as well. -[4231.42 --> 4234.64] So this is Hebrews 11 verses 17 through 19. -[4234.74 --> 4236.06] Beloved, listen to God's word. -[4236.06 --> 4242.92] By faith, Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice. -[4243.92 --> 4249.46] He who had received the promises was about to sacrifice his one and only son, even though -[4249.46 --> 4254.26] God had said to him, it is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned. -[4255.38 --> 4260.88] Abraham reasoned that God could raise the dead, and figuratively speaking, he did receive -[4260.88 --> 4261.88] Isaac back from death. -[4261.88 --> 4262.76] Isaac back from death. -[4262.76 --> 4264.44] The word of the Lord. -[4264.44 --> 4266.44] Thanks be to God. -[4266.44 --> 4272.32] In Psalm 62, 11, the psalmist says this, -[4272.32 --> 4274.90] One thing God has spoken. -[4274.90 --> 4277.10] Two things I have heard. -[4278.10 --> 4283.78] That you, O God, are powerful, and that you, O God, are loving. -[4285.16 --> 4293.62] When God speaks about his own essential nature, he can put it as simply as two words. -[4293.62 --> 4300.70] On the one hand, God is powerful, and on the other hand, God is loving. -[4300.86 --> 4304.06] We might say God is powerful love. -[4304.06 --> 4312.54] There are times in our lives, aren't there, when the reality of God's power and the reality -[4312.54 --> 4321.50] of God's love merge in our experience in a single moment in time, crystallize in our experience -[4321.50 --> 4329.02] in a single moment in time, or put it this way, become real, so real in our experience -[4329.02 --> 4337.74] in a single moment in time, and the effect is that we taste the goodness of God. -[4340.14 --> 4344.60] My mom tells the story when she was nine or ten years old, her mother had sent her out of the house -[4344.60 --> 4347.50] to get out and go do something. -[4348.26 --> 4350.32] It was a cloud-covered BC day. -[4350.42 --> 4357.28] It was dark, and my mom was skipping in the front driveway, and she wasn't feeling very good about herself, -[4357.28 --> 4359.02] wasn't feeling very good about life. -[4359.18 --> 4364.88] She continued to skip, and as she skipped, suddenly, she stopped because she noticed that the cloud, -[4365.28 --> 4370.30] a massive cloud, moved to the left, and a massive cloud moved to the right, -[4370.68 --> 4375.80] and a single opening came in the sky, and as she looked up in the sky, a beam of light, -[4375.92 --> 4379.28] the sun came into the hole, a beam of light came down on her, -[4379.28 --> 4386.50] and she experienced in that moment the reality of the power of God, and the reality of the love of God -[4386.50 --> 4394.84] merge in her experience in a single moment in time, and she was flooded with a sense of the goodness of God. -[4395.40 --> 4401.62] He who is powerful enough to make that fiery ball of gas shine down her with such warmth -[4401.62 --> 4404.36] and bathe her in light and warmth. -[4405.16 --> 4406.18] It's good. -[4406.86 --> 4407.70] It's so good. -[4408.66 --> 4415.26] I imagine that Abraham had times like these, times when, indeed, the reality of the power of God -[4415.26 --> 4420.86] and the reality of the love of God merged or crystallized or became real at a single moment in time -[4420.86 --> 4422.70] in his experience. -[4422.70 --> 4428.84] Like, for example, when his nephew Lot was kidnapped, taken off by five kings, -[4429.14 --> 4434.44] very, very powerful kings, Lot, his wife, his children, all of their possessions taken away. -[4434.96 --> 4438.56] Abraham embraces courage, and he goes and chases these five kings down. -[4439.50 --> 4442.02] Can you imagine the scene as he's coming back? -[4442.12 --> 4444.02] Tears are on Lot and his family's face. -[4444.98 --> 4451.50] Abraham, with only 300 men, exhibiting the power of God, rescuing his nephew Lot. -[4451.50 --> 4455.08] And, oh, the love of God, which gave him the strength to do it. -[4456.28 --> 4463.26] I think of Abraham when he and Sarah, after so long of waiting, after so many years of -[4463.26 --> 4469.06] disappointment with infertility, riding that roller coaster of despair and hope and hope -[4469.06 --> 4472.76] and despair every single month, year after year after year, and finally they hold this -[4472.76 --> 4478.48] little baby when they're in their 90s and 100 years old in their arms and seeing Isaac's -[4478.48 --> 4480.74] little eyes blinking back at them. -[4481.50 --> 4486.64] He asked the power of God who can bring life where there is no life, who can bring life -[4486.64 --> 4490.80] into a barren womb, and the goodness of God who would do such a thing, the love of God. -[4491.74 --> 4494.38] Indeed, it's the experience of goodness. -[4494.84 --> 4500.88] I wonder, as you think about it here, can you recall a time and make it real to yourself -[4500.88 --> 4505.68] when the reality of the power of God on the one hand and the reality of the love of God -[4505.68 --> 4515.62] and the other merged into one in your experience and gave you a feeling of the incredible, cascading -[4515.62 --> 4518.76] goodness of God and just how real that goodness is? -[4518.82 --> 4520.16] Can you recall a time like that? -[4521.76 --> 4523.78] I encourage you, bring it back into your mind. -[4524.82 --> 4526.02] Bring it back into your soul. -[4526.02 --> 4527.82] Let it wash over you for a moment. -[4529.96 --> 4532.34] Either a time long ago or maybe a time more recently. -[4535.86 --> 4539.42] One of my recent experiences of this came this summer. -[4539.42 --> 4545.68] My wife, Michelle, myself, and our four daughters had the extraordinary privilege of going to -[4545.68 --> 4548.24] the UK for a trip for three weeks. -[4548.78 --> 4553.32] I had done a PhD on the Isle of Anglesey in the north of Wales, and we had promised our -[4553.32 --> 4560.26] kids many moons ago at this point, 15 years ago basically, that one day we would come back. -[4560.38 --> 4562.22] And so Michelle and I had been saving and saving. -[4562.22 --> 4566.52] We were supposed to go during COVID, couldn't go, but our opportunity came this summer. -[4566.64 --> 4570.30] So we flew out, landed at Gatwick International Airport in London. -[4570.44 --> 4571.42] I rented a big bus. -[4571.72 --> 4572.94] It was like a nine-seater. -[4573.46 --> 4579.92] We drove from there to the Cotswolds and Bath, and then we went to an adorable little town -[4579.92 --> 4583.22] called Glandelo and walked around all these little shops. -[4583.38 --> 4588.24] And then we ended up going to a place called Solva, which is in an area called the Pembroke Shire, -[4588.80 --> 4590.64] the southwest coast of Wales. -[4590.64 --> 4592.74] It was stunningly beautiful. -[4593.60 --> 4599.00] The first full day that we had in Solva, we decided we were going to go for a 7.7-kilometer -[4599.00 --> 4603.94] walk up north the coast of the Pembroke Shire to a place called St. David's. -[4604.60 --> 4606.18] And so we got on our shorts. -[4606.32 --> 4607.22] It was a beautiful day. -[4607.32 --> 4608.24] The sky was blue. -[4608.34 --> 4609.18] The sun was out. -[4609.28 --> 4612.84] The wind was blowing as we were walking on the Pembroke Shire coast. -[4612.94 --> 4614.82] It wasn't blowing at our faces. -[4614.98 --> 4618.96] It wasn't blowing from behind, but it was blowing from the side, cooling us on this hot day. -[4618.96 --> 4620.60] And it was a glorious walk. -[4620.66 --> 4624.54] And we walked with quite some pace all the way to St. David's, walked another two kilometers -[4624.54 --> 4626.90] into the town, and we were famished. -[4627.00 --> 4628.18] We had this delicious pizza. -[4628.32 --> 4629.32] I'm like, oh, I want to go. -[4629.40 --> 4630.92] I hear there's a church in St. David's. -[4630.92 --> 4631.76] Let's go to the church. -[4632.16 --> 4633.82] We walked down a street, and we turned around. -[4633.92 --> 4634.70] Of course, it's not a church. -[4634.78 --> 4638.80] It's a cathedral that's a block long made in the 10th or 11th century. -[4638.92 --> 4644.66] We're walking around the back, spent an hour just mesmerized with a sense of transcendence -[4644.66 --> 4649.50] and eminence, all the artwork, the statues, and just marveling at our brothers and sisters -[4649.50 --> 4651.16] in the faith who put this thing together. -[4652.50 --> 4657.74] We walked back along the Pembroke Shire, now walking south again, and still the sun was -[4657.74 --> 4658.08] shining. -[4658.48 --> 4659.14] It was beautiful. -[4659.14 --> 4663.76] And I remember at one point, Michelle and I were walking out ahead, and our four daughters, -[4664.34 --> 4669.08] 2018, 16, and 15, were walking behind us. -[4669.64 --> 4670.54] No phones. -[4671.76 --> 4673.04] No devices. -[4674.46 --> 4675.02] Laughter. -[4676.02 --> 4677.16] Talking with one another. -[4678.92 --> 4680.20] Everything lined up. -[4681.12 --> 4687.80] The layers of beauty, the layers of the power of God, the layers of the love of God were all -[4687.80 --> 4692.10] there, and I was overwhelmed with a sense of the goodness of God. -[4693.38 --> 4697.42] Because, indeed, the reality of the power of God and the reality of the love of God merged in my -[4697.42 --> 4700.96] experience in a single moment of time, and it was overwhelming. -[4701.48 --> 4705.84] The goodness of God was so real in that moment, and we can have moments like that, right? -[4706.62 --> 4707.76] Oh, and they're precious. -[4708.52 --> 4709.32] They're so good. -[4710.24 --> 4712.10] But then we can have other moments as well. -[4712.10 --> 4719.64] We can have moments like Abraham surely had when God came to him and said, take your son, -[4719.72 --> 4723.22] your only son, the son whom you love, and sacrifice him. -[4723.38 --> 4729.50] Because even if, as we're told, it was only a test, what kind of God? -[4730.78 --> 4737.04] What kind of God would tell someone he loves to go and do something as horrific and atrocious -[4737.04 --> 4737.88] as that? -[4738.30 --> 4743.94] What kind of God would put a child he loves under a test like that? -[4744.86 --> 4748.52] But this is exactly and precisely what God does. -[4749.70 --> 4754.66] There are times in our life when, indeed, the power of God and the love of God merge in our -[4754.66 --> 4760.70] experience, but there are other times when we are made to question whether or not God is using -[4760.70 --> 4762.74] his power in the service of his love. -[4762.74 --> 4765.56] And we can begin to doubt. -[4766.44 --> 4770.68] It looks like God's power is one thing, but we begin to question that love. -[4771.80 --> 4776.08] Yes, there may still be light coming from the heavens, as my mom experienced, but it's more -[4776.08 --> 4779.98] like a lightning bolt, and it is a warm ray of sunshine. -[4780.38 --> 4784.60] And I can tell you, as somebody who's been a pastor for over 20 years, I have seen this -[4784.60 --> 4787.48] over and over and over again. -[4787.70 --> 4791.08] And the question has lurked into my heart sometimes, why? -[4791.08 --> 4797.00] Why, oh God, would you allow the couple in my church who will make such amazing parents, -[4797.08 --> 4799.02] why would you allow them to struggle with infertility? -[4799.42 --> 4803.40] It is a roller coaster of hope and despair, as I said before. -[4804.48 --> 4807.88] Not one year, not two, but three, four, five, six years. -[4808.14 --> 4809.30] Why would God allow that? -[4810.30 --> 4816.66] Why would God allow some people who so desperately desire to give love in the form of marriage? -[4816.66 --> 4819.38] They wouldn't find the right person. -[4819.90 --> 4821.18] And they're so lonely. -[4822.12 --> 4823.16] Why would God do this? -[4823.18 --> 4827.28] It doesn't look like God's power is being used in the service of God's love. -[4827.28 --> 4837.14] Why would God allow somebody to be cliff jumping and in a freak moment crack their neck and become -[4837.14 --> 4838.04] a quadriplegic? -[4839.16 --> 4844.68] Why would he allow somebody's son to hit a mountainside, another one's daughter to be killed -[4844.68 --> 4847.60] in a car crash so prematurely at 18 years old? -[4847.84 --> 4849.30] You have stories like this. -[4849.30 --> 4854.48] You know that there are times in our life where it does not look like God's power is being used -[4854.48 --> 4855.88] in the service of God's love. -[4856.64 --> 4859.08] And indeed, it makes us question that love itself. -[4860.20 --> 4864.26] Even on a world stage right now, I don't know if you've been listening or watching the images -[4864.26 --> 4870.50] coming out of Israel and out of Palestine, but all of the innocent life that is being lost. -[4870.58 --> 4871.76] I'm not trying to be political here. -[4871.86 --> 4872.56] Far from it. -[4872.56 --> 4879.60] But my goodness, the things that are going on, is God using his power in the service of love? -[4880.46 --> 4882.78] Sometimes we can begin to question that love. -[4883.48 --> 4887.96] And fair enough, because life is tough and the things that happen to certain people can -[4887.96 --> 4889.18] be unbelievably tough. -[4889.42 --> 4896.06] But the marvel of Hebrews 11, 17 through 19, the reason that Abraham is called a hero of -[4896.06 --> 4897.80] the faith in part is because of this. -[4897.80 --> 4904.80] We might question God's love and we might start losing our faith and beginning not wanting -[4904.80 --> 4907.50] to be faithful to God because what kind of God indeed? -[4907.96 --> 4910.34] But Abraham doesn't lose his faith. -[4911.14 --> 4914.76] He does not cease to act in faithfulness. -[4916.30 --> 4917.52] And we say, why? -[4919.12 --> 4927.70] Well, by faith, the author of Hebrews says, when God tested him, Abraham offered Isaac. -[4927.70 --> 4928.84] As a sacrifice. -[4929.96 --> 4934.76] Because he reasoned that God could raise the dead. -[4937.48 --> 4941.00] He believed that God had the power to raise the dead. -[4941.22 --> 4945.88] But not only could raise the dead, but indeed would raise the dead. -[4946.12 --> 4951.06] Because God promised that his offspring would come through Isaac. -[4951.06 --> 4955.24] You see the faith that Abraham had? -[4955.62 --> 4958.72] Abraham believed in his heart of hearts. -[4958.88 --> 4965.60] He was absolutely convicted that even though there may be darkness all around, even there -[4965.60 --> 4968.54] may be incomprehensible things happening to him. -[4969.54 --> 4975.00] There will come a time in the future when the reality of God's power and the reality of -[4975.00 --> 4979.42] God's love merged together again in his experience. -[4981.70 --> 4985.06] And so that ultimately, in this case, that Isaac would be raised from the dead. -[4985.32 --> 4988.70] And as the author says, figuratively, Isaac did come back from the dead. -[4989.14 --> 4994.98] In fact, in the story itself, God's power and love merged together in Abraham's experience -[4994.98 --> 4998.20] when a ram is caught in the thicket providentially. -[4998.20 --> 5002.36] And becomes the substitute sacrifice right there. -[5003.30 --> 5005.96] And we'll say, but where did he come upon this conviction? -[5007.18 --> 5012.64] That it must be that way that God's power and love, despite what we're going through right now, -[5012.76 --> 5014.34] will merge again in our experience. -[5014.76 --> 5016.00] How did he know it must happen? -[5016.06 --> 5017.80] And I think here is what Abraham had. -[5018.42 --> 5020.76] Which is why I spent time belaboring it earlier. -[5021.82 --> 5023.84] Abraham had had those moments -[5023.84 --> 5028.52] where the reality of God's power and love merged together in his experience -[5028.52 --> 5030.84] and became unbelievably real to him. -[5030.98 --> 5033.60] So real, in fact, that Abraham would say, -[5034.22 --> 5037.38] this goodness I am experiencing right now, -[5037.86 --> 5039.92] this defines reality. -[5041.24 --> 5046.24] This is what is at the center of the center of all things. -[5047.08 --> 5048.06] It is goodness. -[5048.42 --> 5050.90] Oh yes, we experience a lot of things that are not goodness. -[5051.18 --> 5053.82] We experience a lot of things that are unbelievably painful. -[5053.84 --> 5054.86] We go through suffering. -[5055.18 --> 5058.52] But that does not define reality with a capital R. -[5058.94 --> 5063.10] Reality with a capital R is defined by that goodness. -[5064.14 --> 5066.20] And he clung to that in faith. -[5066.98 --> 5069.24] And if goodness defines reality then, -[5069.84 --> 5073.10] and that experience you had was true, -[5074.00 --> 5075.12] then it must be true. -[5075.68 --> 5077.54] That after all things are burned away, -[5077.64 --> 5080.14] after all things have played themselves out, -[5080.14 --> 5082.28] the final tune, the final song, -[5082.40 --> 5083.50] is going to be that merger. -[5083.84 --> 5086.96] Of power and love to the experience of goodness once again. -[5088.40 --> 5091.64] It's a question about what do we hold to be truly real? -[5092.64 --> 5094.14] What is reality to you? -[5094.14 --> 5098.92] I was in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, -[5098.92 --> 5103.40] in I think it was 1998 or 1999 with Young Life. -[5103.52 --> 5105.48] It was Young Life or one of these groups, I can't remember. -[5106.28 --> 5109.40] We had driven down from the north in Calvin College in Michigan, -[5109.56 --> 5111.42] came all the way down into the panhandle. -[5111.48 --> 5113.10] I think we were in Miami, Daytona Beach. -[5113.16 --> 5113.98] I don't know where it was. -[5113.98 --> 5117.78] But we experienced such incredible community that week. -[5118.70 --> 5120.56] We had awesome days on the beaches. -[5120.94 --> 5122.30] We had Bible studies together. -[5122.48 --> 5123.80] People shared their stories. -[5124.42 --> 5125.88] We came to love each other. -[5126.00 --> 5127.44] There was about 15 of us. -[5127.56 --> 5129.38] And there was harmony in the group. -[5129.54 --> 5132.40] It was a time of pure sweetness and pure goodness. -[5132.54 --> 5133.22] It really was. -[5133.86 --> 5136.84] And I will never forget that as we were preparing to go home, -[5137.10 --> 5139.36] the long ride back up to Calvin into the cold, -[5139.44 --> 5140.82] because it was wintertime as well, -[5141.60 --> 5143.44] that one of the girls there said, -[5143.56 --> 5147.68] you know, I guess we just have to go back to reality, don't we? -[5148.14 --> 5148.92] Go back to Calvin. -[5149.02 --> 5150.02] We got to go back to reality. -[5150.14 --> 5150.96] Back to the tests. -[5151.22 --> 5153.06] Back to the strife that was in her family. -[5153.06 --> 5156.02] The conflict situation in her family system. -[5156.24 --> 5157.82] Yeah, we got to go back to reality. -[5158.94 --> 5159.76] And our youth leader said, -[5159.84 --> 5160.76] whoa, hold on a second. -[5160.76 --> 5162.22] And I know that that is real. -[5162.98 --> 5164.58] But you know, in another sense, -[5164.68 --> 5167.14] what we've been experiencing here this week, -[5167.90 --> 5169.46] with the love between us, -[5170.28 --> 5174.30] the intimacy, the joy, the tenderness, -[5175.12 --> 5176.28] this is reality. -[5177.02 --> 5180.18] And what we get to do is take this piece of reality -[5180.18 --> 5183.36] and go back and bring this real -[5183.36 --> 5186.02] into that, in a sense, unreal. -[5186.48 --> 5188.90] Because those things will pass away. -[5188.90 --> 5191.84] When you're in times that are difficult, -[5192.18 --> 5193.38] when you're suffering, -[5193.66 --> 5195.90] when you're beginning to question God's love, -[5196.76 --> 5198.28] how do you cope with that? -[5200.58 --> 5203.92] Can you go back to those experiences of goodness -[5203.92 --> 5206.50] where the reality of God's power and love -[5206.50 --> 5207.90] merged in your own experience? -[5209.18 --> 5211.24] And can you say, this is what defines reality? -[5211.24 --> 5216.72] And therefore, this is what we will come back to. -[5217.70 --> 5220.72] You know, friends, we have much greater basis -[5220.72 --> 5222.96] to have faith in this way -[5222.96 --> 5225.28] and to continue to be faithful because of this -[5225.28 --> 5226.54] than Abraham did. -[5227.24 --> 5228.18] And you'll say, why? -[5229.38 --> 5230.16] And you know the answer? -[5232.06 --> 5233.84] It's because we have the witness, -[5234.20 --> 5235.52] eyewitness testimony -[5235.52 --> 5238.92] that the reality of God's power -[5238.92 --> 5240.34] and the reality of God's love -[5240.34 --> 5242.74] has merged at a single point in time -[5242.74 --> 5244.22] in a climactic way, -[5244.36 --> 5246.02] in the supreme way, -[5246.94 --> 5248.30] in Jesus Christ our Lord. -[5248.84 --> 5251.80] He who lived the life that we were supposed to live, -[5251.92 --> 5253.88] died the death that we were supposed to die, -[5254.80 --> 5257.00] and ushered in, yes, -[5257.38 --> 5259.66] ushered in God's new creation. -[5259.66 --> 5263.52] We have already been given a picture -[5263.52 --> 5265.42] in the resurrection of Christ -[5265.42 --> 5268.80] of what the future for us will look like -[5268.80 --> 5270.54] who have aligned ourselves with this goodness. -[5271.36 --> 5272.80] It looks very good indeed. -[5273.12 --> 5274.68] It looks like resurrection life. -[5274.86 --> 5276.56] It looks like the overcoming of death. -[5276.80 --> 5279.08] It looks like the wiping away of all tears, -[5279.36 --> 5281.42] all mourning, and all reasons for sadness. -[5282.86 --> 5285.80] Oh yes, we have great reason for hope. -[5286.56 --> 5289.34] We have great reason to cling to faith. -[5289.66 --> 5292.10] That at the center of the center of all things is goodness. -[5292.28 --> 5293.84] And ask yourself the question, -[5294.34 --> 5296.74] what if you trusted God's love in this way? -[5297.34 --> 5298.90] What if you really believed -[5298.90 --> 5300.46] that at the center of all things -[5300.46 --> 5302.50] was this word of goodness, -[5302.64 --> 5304.68] and it will have the final word, -[5305.02 --> 5306.48] despite the fact that you're walking -[5306.48 --> 5308.62] through the valley of the shadow right now, -[5308.90 --> 5310.22] despite the fact that our world -[5310.22 --> 5312.24] is walking through that shadow right now. -[5313.00 --> 5315.02] My former professor, Bruce Waltke, -[5315.02 --> 5318.42] tells a story of a man in the 1800s -[5318.42 --> 5320.90] who had lived his whole life in the deep south. -[5321.74 --> 5323.36] There were no TVs in those days. -[5323.46 --> 5325.12] There was no phones, no cell phones. -[5326.08 --> 5328.58] But he had heard that in northern Canada, -[5329.20 --> 5331.12] the lakes get so cold -[5331.12 --> 5333.34] that the water freezes to the point -[5333.34 --> 5335.80] where a human being can even walk on the water. -[5336.32 --> 5337.68] But he found this unbelievable. -[5337.98 --> 5338.24] Really? -[5338.38 --> 5338.60] Wow. -[5338.66 --> 5340.82] You could walk on water in the form of ice. -[5340.92 --> 5342.48] Does it really get that cold in places? -[5342.48 --> 5344.36] And the lakes really get that hard. -[5344.56 --> 5347.22] So one winter, he takes a train -[5347.22 --> 5348.80] and he goes up into northern Canada -[5348.80 --> 5352.04] and he stands out on the shore -[5352.04 --> 5353.58] of this very, very large lake. -[5353.62 --> 5355.36] And he looks out over and it's frozen. -[5356.06 --> 5358.02] And he just stands there marveling for a while. -[5358.86 --> 5360.52] And then he kind of puts his foot out -[5360.52 --> 5361.84] and he tests it. -[5362.94 --> 5364.44] And then he takes his other foot and he tests it. -[5364.48 --> 5365.86] Then he comes on with both feet -[5365.86 --> 5367.00] where it's very, very shallow. -[5367.62 --> 5369.28] And then he gets down on hands and knees -[5369.28 --> 5370.48] as the water's getting deeper below -[5370.48 --> 5371.72] and he starts crawling out, -[5372.14 --> 5375.06] hand over hand, knee pulling, knee up over knee. -[5375.60 --> 5379.26] From behind him, he hears the sound of something. -[5380.20 --> 5381.78] And it gets louder and louder -[5381.78 --> 5383.18] as he continues to listen. -[5383.80 --> 5385.80] It's the sound of horses and gallop. -[5385.84 --> 5387.74] And as he turns around to look at what's coming, -[5388.10 --> 5390.26] he sees four Clydesdale horses, -[5390.40 --> 5392.08] which are some of the biggest horses you can imagine. -[5392.46 --> 5393.88] Four Clydesdale horses. -[5394.64 --> 5396.82] And a wagon behind it, -[5396.82 --> 5400.08] a man driving these Clydesdales forward. -[5400.24 --> 5401.32] They go out onto the lake -[5401.32 --> 5403.82] and into the distance, -[5404.04 --> 5405.74] charging full steam ahead. -[5406.78 --> 5407.92] And Bruce Waltke says, -[5408.00 --> 5408.70] he says, you know, -[5409.20 --> 5410.96] friends, sometimes I feel like that man -[5410.96 --> 5412.92] on all fours in my relationship with God. -[5413.00 --> 5413.70] Can I trust you? -[5414.62 --> 5415.94] Can I trust you with this? -[5416.36 --> 5418.00] Can I really trust you with that? -[5419.48 --> 5421.16] God's work in Christ -[5421.16 --> 5424.24] and God's giving us the gift -[5424.24 --> 5426.74] of experience of goodness in the past as well. -[5426.82 --> 5431.14] It says that we can charge full steam ahead. -[5431.84 --> 5433.90] We can live with radical faithfulness today -[5433.90 --> 5435.30] to our Lord, -[5435.84 --> 5438.00] for he is coming again. -[5438.66 --> 5439.46] And in that day, -[5439.54 --> 5442.10] the future will break in in its consummation. -[5442.78 --> 5443.90] And all will be well. -[5444.22 --> 5445.84] And all manner of things will be well. -[5447.22 --> 5448.14] Thanks be to God. -[5448.26 --> 5448.76] Let us pray. -[5448.82 --> 5449.22] Amen. -[5451.46 --> 5452.66] Lord God, we thank you -[5452.66 --> 5454.86] that you have given us this incredible hope. -[5454.86 --> 5458.50] Hope that one day, -[5458.72 --> 5460.34] the reality of your power and love -[5460.34 --> 5462.30] will be manifest in our lives. -[5462.34 --> 5464.30] Not that we question that you are powerful -[5464.30 --> 5465.20] and that you are loving, -[5465.80 --> 5468.78] but that it will be fully within our experience -[5468.78 --> 5470.70] in the future time. -[5470.70 --> 5474.40] Lord, we pray that until that time, -[5474.52 --> 5475.64] you would equip your church -[5475.64 --> 5480.22] to manifest powerful love in our own lives -[5480.22 --> 5483.84] so that people would there have a third witness, -[5484.46 --> 5486.18] Lord, that we can trust what is coming. -[5486.98 --> 5489.60] And that even though things are so difficult right now, -[5489.66 --> 5491.66] even though we live in a veil of tears sometimes, -[5491.66 --> 5494.82] that we can trust that you indeed will make all things well. -[5494.82 --> 5497.58] hearten us unto faith, we pray, -[5497.70 --> 5499.08] for the sake of Jesus Christ -[5499.08 --> 5500.30] and in the power of your spirit. -[5501.14 --> 5502.50] It is in his name we pray. -[5503.08 --> 5503.36] Amen. -[5509.36 --> 5511.00] I invite you all to stand -[5511.00 --> 5514.94] and let's confess each one of us -[5514.94 --> 5516.80] that all we have is Christ. -[5516.80 --> 5527.00] Hallelujah. -[5527.00 --> 5529.00] Hallelujah. -[5530.44 --> 5534.92] All I have is Christ. -[5535.44 --> 5536.82] Hallelujah. -[5540.16 --> 5545.40] Jesus is my life. -[5546.80 --> 5556.18] I once was lost to the darkest night, -[5556.18 --> 5560.70] yet but I knew the way. -[5561.08 --> 5564.98] The sin that promised joy in life -[5564.98 --> 5569.54] had led me to the grave. -[5569.90 --> 5574.14] I had no hope that you would own, -[5574.14 --> 5578.38] the rebel do your will. -[5578.38 --> 5582.92] And if you had a lovely voice, -[5583.26 --> 5587.30] I would refuse you to stand. -[5593.30 --> 5596.30] But as I ran, -[5596.40 --> 5598.26] I held a place -[5598.26 --> 5602.60] in difference to the cross. -[5602.60 --> 5606.96] You looked upon my helpless state -[5606.96 --> 5611.34] and led me to the cross. -[5611.64 --> 5615.72] And I beheld God's love this way. -[5615.88 --> 5620.00] You suffered in my place. -[5620.00 --> 5622.30] You poured my wrath, -[5622.30 --> 5624.34] You served for me. -[5624.34 --> 5630.70] Now all I know is grace. -[5631.38 --> 5632.30] Hallelujah. -[5635.30 --> 5639.38] All I have is Christ. -[5641.88 --> 5642.76] Hallelujah. -[5642.76 --> 5647.14] Jesus is my life. -[5647.14 --> 5654.14] Now Lord, I would be yours alone -[5654.14 --> 5658.56] and live the whole bright sea. -[5658.92 --> 5662.82] The strength to follow your commands -[5662.82 --> 5667.00] would never come from me. -[5667.00 --> 5671.38] So Father, you, my ransom, I -[5671.38 --> 5675.62] in any way you choose. -[5675.62 --> 5679.84] And that my love forever be -[5679.84 --> 5685.46] my only hope is true. -[5687.46 --> 5688.26] Hallelujah. -[5690.26 --> 5694.56] Oh, my God is Christ. -[5694.56 --> 5696.56] Hallelujah. -[5696.56 --> 5697.56] Hallelujah. -[5698.76 --> 5702.76] Jesus is my life. -[5703.30 --> 5704.40] Hallelujah. -[5707.10 --> 5710.86] All I have is Christ. -[5711.52 --> 5712.56] Hallelujah. -[5715.52 --> 5719.56] Jesus is my life. -[5719.56 --> 5720.56] Hallelujah. -[5724.56 --> 5725.74] Sisters and brothers in Christ, -[5725.84 --> 5727.14] as you go into this day -[5727.14 --> 5728.00] and into a new week, -[5728.14 --> 5729.34] know that our Lord goes with you -[5729.34 --> 5730.72] and he puts his blessing over you. -[5731.26 --> 5732.84] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[5733.02 --> 5734.60] The Lord make his face shine upon you -[5734.60 --> 5735.62] and be gracious to you. -[5736.14 --> 5737.50] The Lord turn his face fully -[5737.50 --> 5738.30] in your direction -[5738.30 --> 5739.66] and grant you his peace -[5739.66 --> 5741.46] both now and forevermore. -[5741.68 --> 5742.72] And all God's people say, -[5743.38 --> 5743.62] Amen. -[5743.62 --> 5743.74] Amen. -[5743.74 --> 5743.78] Amen. -[5743.78 --> 5745.78] Amen. -[5745.78 --> 5745.82] Amen. -[5745.82 --> 5745.86] Amen. -[5745.86 --> 5745.92] Amen. -[5745.92 --> 5746.74] Amen. -[5746.74 --> 5747.78] Amen. -[5747.78 --> 5747.86] Amen. -[5747.86 --> 5748.74] Amen. -[5748.74 --> 5748.78] Amen. -[5748.78 --> 5749.78] Amen. -[5749.78 --> 5750.78] Amen. -[5750.78 --> 5750.86] Amen. -[5750.86 --> 5751.78] Amen. -[5751.78 --> 5752.78] Amen. -[5752.78 --> 5752.82] Amen. -[5754.62 --> 5755.22] Amen. -[5755.22 --> 5758.70] Amen. -[5758.88 --> 5759.38] Amen. -[5763.38 --> 5763.40] Amen. -[5777.82 --> 5781.82] Amen. -[5782.22 --> 5782.38] Amen. -[5782.38 --> 5782.52] Amen. -[5782.56 --> 5782.80] Amen. -[5783.20 --> 5793.10] y -[5793.64 --> 5795.10] right -[5795.10 --> 5795.56] and the -[5795.56 --> 5805.56] hail -[5808.92 --> 5813.56] and the earth will reply -[5825.56 --> 5836.28] there's a shield in our hand and a sword at our side there's a fire in our spirit that cannot be -[5836.28 --> 5853.56] denied that the father has told us for these you have died -[5855.56 --> 5869.56] is -[5876.60 --> 5883.56] and the earth -[5885.56 --> 5895.56] of all kings -[5895.56 --> 5899.56] who was slain for the world -[5899.56 --> 5901.56] holy -[5901.56 --> 5907.56] and the earth will reply -[5907.56 --> 5913.56] shall we -[5913.56 --> 5917.56] and the -[5917.56 --> 5919.56] king of all kings -[5919.56 --> 5921.56] and the lord of all -[5921.56 --> 5925.56] and the -[5925.56 --> 5927.56] and the -[5927.56 --> 5929.56] and the -[5929.56 --> 5931.56] and the -[5931.56 --> 5933.56] and the -[5933.56 --> 5939.56] and the -[5939.56 --> 5941.56] and the -[5941.56 --> 5943.56] and the -[5943.56 --> 5945.56] and the -[5945.56 --> 5951.56] and the -[5951.56 --> 5953.56] and the -[5953.56 --> 5955.56] and the -[5955.56 --> 5957.56] and the -[5957.56 --> 5959.56] and the -[5959.56 --> 5965.56] and the -[5965.56 --> 5969.56] and the -[5969.56 --> 5971.56] and the -[5971.56 --> 5973.56] and the -[5973.56 --> 5975.56] and the -[5975.56 --> 5977.56] and the -[5977.56 --> 5981.56] and the -[5981.56 --> 5983.56] and the -[5983.56 --> 5985.56] and the -[5985.56 --> 5987.56] and the -[5987.56 --> 5989.56] and the -[5989.56 --> 5993.56] and the -[5993.56 --> 5995.56] and the -[5995.56 --> 5997.56] and the -[5997.56 --> 5999.56] and the -[5999.56 --> 6011.56] and the -[6011.56 --> 6013.56] and the -[6013.56 --> 6015.56] and the -[6015.56 --> 6017.56] and the diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 16, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 16, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 775a5bf9854a3152874cb87a008850ee52f394ed..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 16, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,157 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction by Pastor Chris -• Announcement about connecting with visitors and getting involved in church activities -• Linda's announcement for Women's Ministry event on October 28-29 -• Reminder to apply for Young Adult Coordinator position before Tuesday -• Welcome and opening prayer by Pastor Chris -• Reflecting on the goodness of God -• Praise and thanksgiving for God's promises and faithfulness -• The Lord's compassion and love for all creation -• Worship and praise to God -• Confidence in Jesus as the name above every other name -• Trust in God's love and sovereignty over life -• Confession of struggles with reconciling God's ways with personal desires and plans -• Praying for help in weakness, forgiveness for unbelief, and a heart filled with faith -• Worship song about loving and following God -• Discussion of Jesus' sacrifice and forgiveness -• Mention of Jesus as the King -• Introduction to a guest speaker (deacon Yap) at Emmanuel church -• Announcement of offerings for Night Shift Ministries and Wagner Hills -• Scripture reading from Matthew 25 -• Praise and worship song about seeking mercy and hope in God -• Church council meeting summary -• Ministry leaders and coordinator list review -• Safe Church training sessions update -• New facility use policy for rentals -• Budget preparation and presentation to congregation -• Pastor reports -• Children's worship time activities -• Discussion about rest and God's creation in Genesis -• Election results discussed -• Church member Marg Kuntz's re-election acknowledged -• Prayers offered for grieving families, including the Hubertz family and John Trass -• John Trass's accident and hospitalization mentioned -• Discussion of rest and children's worship time to follow -• The group is gathering to pray -• They are praying for those who cannot gather in groups due to persecution or fear of death or arrest -• They are asking God to protect and preserve those being persecuted -• They are seeking to change the world around them, just as they gather together -• They are thankful for opportunities to serve and praise God with others -• They are praying for the power of God's holy name to reveal His kingdom -• Praise for good weather -• Request for rain in a dry period -• Prayer for those affected by fires, including damage to property and loss of life -• Thanksgiving for an election outcome -• Prayer for humility and effectiveness among leaders -• Prayer for those serving without recognizing God or His Spirit -• Prayer for emboldenment and protection of those who serve as examples of Christ -• Prayer for Marg's new service role -• Prayer for the new mayors of Langley Township and City, asking for God's work in them -• Celebration with the Agile family -• Praise for new Canadian citizens -• Praying for the journey of those who have gone from refugees to citizens -• Prayer for Talal's citizenship paperwork to be expedited -• Intercession in the lives of those mourning -• Thinking of specific families in their time of grief -• Asking for peace and testimony of God's nearness during difficult decisions -• Drawing near to families making plans after loss -• Praying for comfort, hope, and healing for ongoing grief and for a person named John Trass -• Prayers for the family and loved ones of a person who has passed away -• Updates on church members serving in various mission areas (Costa Rica, Mauritius) -• Requests for God's blessing and presence with missionaries and church members serving abroad -• Thanks for the privilege to serve God through ministry connections in Mexico -• Prayer for others called to be missionaries in the world -• Support and love for those absent from service due to illness or health concerns -• Praying for humbled hearts to trust in God -• Reading Psalm 13 and exploring emotional experiences -• Understanding the power of the gospel to transform emotions -• Discussing Anna Shane Stardick's essay on her experience with bipolar disorder and Christianity -• Exploring the relationship between faith, feelings, and the Christian life -• Discussion of Anna's essay about God's death and her experience with anger -• Importance of having a safe community for vulnerable people to process emotions and struggles -• Need for a church family to be a place for questions, doubt, and anger -• Gratitude for the Women's Fellowship organizing an event for processing grief -• The importance of sharing pain and heartache with others -• The concept that being angry at God is an act of faith, but expressing it in a healthy way is crucial -• Analysis of Psalm 13, specifically the repetition of the question "how long" in verses 1-2 -• Discussion of the emotional depth packed into the short verses of Psalm 13 -• Discussion of David crying out the name "Adana" four times -• Analysis of Adana as a Hebrew name for God and its poetic significance -• Interpretation of David's repetition as a plaintive cry for God's absence and death -• Reflection on how our own experiences are often exaggerated in hindsight -• Consideration of the theme of prolonged suffering with no end in sight -• Frustration and anger towards God or a situation -• Use of platitudes or easy Christian answers that don't provide real comfort -• Feeling worse or more guilty and ashamed when these responses don't help -• Tendency to become more angry at God, self, others, or the situation due to unmet expectations -• Discussion of Bible verses referencing God's plan and purpose -• Platitudes vs truth in the context of personal pain -• The difference between truth and platitudes when shared with others who feel unheard or ununderstood -• Scripture quotes from Jeremiah, Psalm, Romans, Isaiah, and other books -• A professor's quote about the wrong answer at the right time and its application to grieving people -• Pushing truth on someone who is struggling can lead them further into despair -• Not rushing a person through their emotions and pain, but instead allowing them to process it first -• Living through the first steps of hardship before reaching hope and understanding -• The importance of acknowledging and accepting anger, crying out, and other intense emotions before speaking words of comfort or wisdom -• The priestly blessing in Numbers 6:24-26 -• God's presence, face shining upon the people, and giving peace -• David's experience of feeling distant from God's presence -• David's cry for help and wrestling with his thoughts -• Inner turmoil and mental stuckness, unable to grasp or understand ideas -• Emotions and anxiety manifest physically -• Recognizing physical sensations as cues for emotional state -• Anger can lead to tension in specific body areas -• Describing the experience of intense anger and sorrow -• Psalm 13 describes a similar emotional state of anger, sadness, and frustration -• Analysis of Psalm 13 and its connection to the priestly blessing -• Discussion of the phrase "make my eyes shine" and its significance in Psalm 13 -• Connection between Psalm 13 and a verse from the priestly blessing -• Examination of David's plea for God's presence and glory in his life -• Exploration of anger as a held emotion, including its various facets and sides -• Analysis of the core of unrighteous anger according to "The Cry of the Soul" book -• Discussion of the relationship between vulnerability, control, and unrighteous anger -• Anger and its sources -• Relationship between anger and control -• Powerlessness to change situations or people -• Anger towards God or self -• Trust in God's unfailing love -• The role of the cross in good news -• Difficulty understanding trust as an emotion -• Discussion of trust as a good emotion -• Explanation of the perfect tense in Hebrew grammar -• Description of how the perfect tense is used to describe actions settled in the past with ongoing effects in the present -• Analysis of David's statement "I trusted you" and its implications for understanding faith and reality -• Use of the perfect tense to convey a profession of faith made in the past that defines one's current reality -• The concept of conversion and profession of faith -• The reality of being justified as a son or daughter of God after making a profession of faith -• The change that occurs in one's world when they experience conversion -• The idea that doubts do not change the reality of one's justification -• Reference to 2 Timothy 2:13 -• Trust and faithfulness -• Salvation and love -• Grammar and tense usage -• Belief and reality -• Instruction and trust -• Anger and pain in the midst of belief -• The importance of preaching the gospel to oneself -• The voice in one's head can be overwhelming and condemning -• Jesus' message of rest and forgiveness is needed for a weary heart and mind -• Jesus bore the full wrath of God on behalf of humanity, taking the punishment deserved for sin -• Sometimes it's necessary to silence Satan and hear the words of Jesus -• The author reflects on the pain and shame of Christ's crucifixion -• Discussion of the word "salvation" in Psalm 16 and its connection to Jesus/Yeshua/Joshua/Jesus/Christ -• Importance of preaching the gospel to oneself, especially in times of anger or apparent absence of God -• Reference to Tim Keller's book on walking with God through pain and suffering -• The gospel is a source of comfort and hope in times of suffering -• God's ability to handle anger and have reasons for experiences -• Turning anger into prayer as an act of faith towards God -• Jesus' sacrifice on the cross and resurrection offer hope for redemption and new life -• Patience and trust are required, as healing may not happen immediately -• Prayer to God for comfort and guidance -• Song "Precious Lord, Take My Hand" -• Emergency exit instructions due to an unspecified situation -• Final instructions and warnings to exit the building calmly -• nothing -• stars -• Greek word -• snow -• present moment \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 16, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 16, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 77bf524da0e3aa3a9bee21ee7c977a2618ce0513..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 16, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3271 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 212.00] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 272.00] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 302.00] Thank you. -[302.00 --> 306.00] Thank you. -[306.00 --> 308.00] Thank you. -[308.00 --> 310.00] Thank you. -[310.00 --> 312.00] Thank you. -[312.00 --> 316.00] Thank you. -[316.00 --> 318.00] Thank you. -[318.00 --> 320.00] Thank you. -[320.00 --> 330.00] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 340.00] Thank you. -[340.00 --> 350.00] Thank you. -[350.00 --> 360.00] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 362.00] Thank you. -[380.00 --> 382.00] Thank you. -[410.00 --> 412.00] Thank you. -[440.00 --> 442.00] Thank you. -[470.00 --> 472.00] Thank you. -[500.00 --> 502.00] Thank you. -[530.00 --> 532.00] Thank you. -[532.00 --> 536.00] Thank you. -[536.00 --> 538.00] Thank you. -[538.00 --> 540.00] Good. -[540.00 --> 542.00] Good. -[542.00 --> 544.00] Good. -[544.00 --> 550.00] Good. -[550.00 --> 551.00] Good. -[551.00 --> 552.00] Good. -[552.00 --> 554.00] Good. -[554.00 --> 556.00] Good. -[556.00 --> 558.00] It's good. -[558.00 --> 559.00] Good. -[559.00 --> 561.76] How about there? Sort of. -[565.24 --> 567.94] I'll keep talking. Courtney, you figured it. Perfect. Good morning. -[569.68 --> 576.28] Welcome to church. We're really excited that you are here, especially if you are here visiting -[576.28 --> 581.26] with us this morning. As people are making their way in, there's lots of room up front. -[581.26 --> 590.14] Come on in. No? No takers? No? Okay. We are really excited to worship with you this morning. -[590.36 --> 596.06] My name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors here, and this morning it's my privilege to lead you -[596.06 --> 601.98] along with these others and some who you don't yet see in our shared worship together today. -[602.34 --> 606.58] If you are visiting with us this morning, we would love to connect with you. -[607.04 --> 611.22] We can do that a couple ways. Of course, you can just grab me or someone with a name tag, -[611.26 --> 616.28] after the service, and touch base with them. Or you can grab one of these cards, fill it out, -[616.34 --> 621.38] and leave it by the church office, or put it in the collection bag. Or there's a QR code you can -[621.38 --> 627.00] scan, and you can do the form online. We would just love to connect with you and hear your story of life -[627.00 --> 633.46] and faith and engage you and wonder how we can walk alongside you in whatever it is you're facing -[633.46 --> 638.88] this morning. There are a number of things that are happening in the life of our church, and so I'm -[638.88 --> 642.76] going to invite Linda to come to the front. She's going to make an announcement on behalf of the -[642.76 --> 649.92] Women's Ministry. Why don't you do that now? And as she's making her way up, this is the final week -[649.92 --> 656.04] for us to receive applications for the Young Adult Coordinator position. And so if you've been around, -[656.12 --> 661.16] you know that that's happening. Applications close this week on Tuesday, technically. And so if you know -[661.16 --> 667.04] someone, or if you were planning to apply, please get that application in to us as quick as you can. -[667.54 --> 669.96] Thank you. Linda, why don't you use that? Oh, you have a microphone. Even better. -[670.74 --> 674.36] Good morning. My name is Linda Molenkamp, and I'm part of the Women's Ministry team. -[674.90 --> 680.80] And we are super excited about a women's event coming up. We realize it's been since December 2019 -[680.80 --> 688.26] we've gotten together, so we are so excited to be hosting this event. It is October, Friday, October 28th, -[688.26 --> 695.46] from 7 to 10 p.m. And Saturday, October 29th, from 9 to 2 p.m. And if you can only come to one of those evenings, -[695.58 --> 701.20] that's fantastic. We will really welcome you. We have a table at the back, so if you want to come, -[701.64 --> 706.44] if you have any questions after church, we'll be at the table there, and you can ask us questions about the speaker -[706.44 --> 713.36] and what's happening that weekend. And we invite all women to please join us. We're just really wanting to get together, -[713.96 --> 718.18] spend some time together that weekend. There's a notice in the bulletin that has a -[718.18 --> 724.54] few more details. We have a few requests for volunteers, but if you want to check the bulletin -[724.54 --> 730.40] for the details, there's phone numbers from all of us ladies. You can reach us, you can text us, -[730.52 --> 736.66] you can phone us, or email us. So I don't think you should want to text me, because my number's wrong -[736.66 --> 741.78] in the bulletin. So if you text me, you might be signing up for something different, like square -[741.78 --> 747.40] dancing or something. So you'd probably rather come to this event. Please talk to us after church, -[747.40 --> 749.48] and we look forward to seeing you. Thank you. -[753.76 --> 758.44] Linda reminds me, you do need to RSVP so we know how much food to prepare for you. Thank you. -[758.44 --> 769.90] As you are able, and where you are, I'm going to invite you to stand. We can be welcomed by God in our -[769.90 --> 770.68] worship together. -[775.20 --> 783.40] God speaks his name over us and ushers into this place where two or three are gathered in his name, -[783.40 --> 793.08] and so receive his greeting. Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus -[793.08 --> 801.54] Christ, Son and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Let's worship God together. -[801.54 --> 813.30] In Psalm 145, David calls us to look back on our lives and the generations before us, and reflect on the -[813.30 --> 821.24] goodness of God. We're encouraged to praise God for his greatness, his compassion, and his faithfulness, -[821.80 --> 829.12] and to thank him for his promises, promises that we can count on, not only in good times, but also in -[829.12 --> 836.78] times of trial and sorrow. The Lord is good to all. He has compassion on all that he has made. -[837.20 --> 838.24] Let's worship together. -[838.24 --> 838.36] Amen. -[838.36 --> 839.36] Amen. -[839.36 --> 840.36] Amen. -[848.36 --> 852.44] The Lord is gracious and compassionate. -[852.44 --> 874.60] Slow to anger and rich in love. The Lord is gracious and compassionate. Slow to anger and rich in love. -[874.60 --> 888.60] And the Lord is good to all. He has compassion on all that he has made. -[888.60 --> 901.60] As far as peace is from the land, and so far, he's removed your transmissions from us. -[901.60 --> 924.60] Praise the Lord, O my soul. Praise the Lord. -[924.60 --> 928.66] Praise the Lord. -[928.66 --> 943.06] Praise the Lord, all my soul, praise the Lord -[943.06 --> 948.96] The Lord is gracious and compassionate -[948.96 --> 957.26] So to anger and rich in love -[957.26 --> 962.56] The Lord is gracious and compassionate -[962.56 --> 971.36] So to anger and rich in love -[971.36 --> 977.46] And the Lord is good to all -[977.46 --> 983.96] He has compassion for all that He has made -[983.96 --> 991.16] As far as He is from the West -[991.16 --> 998.56] And so far He has removed our transgressions from us -[998.56 --> 1005.76] As far as He is from the West -[1005.76 --> 1011.76] And so far He has removed our transgressions from us -[1011.76 --> 1020.96] Praise the Lord, all my soul -[1020.96 --> 1024.96] Praise the Lord -[1024.96 --> 1034.96] Praise the Lord, all my soul -[1034.96 --> 1042.16] Praise the Lord -[1042.16 --> 1050.16] Praise the Lord, all my soul -[1050.16 --> 1056.16] Praise the Lord -[1056.16 --> 1063.36] Praise the Lord -[1063.36 --> 1070.56] Praise the Lord -[1070.56 --> 1077.76] Praise the Lord -[1077.76 --> 1092.96] Praise the Lord -[1092.96 --> 1096.96] Worthy of every song we could ever sing -[1096.96 --> 1103.96] Worthy of all the praise we could ever bring -[1103.96 --> 1111.16] Worthy of every song we could ever bring -[1111.16 --> 1113.16] We live for you -[1113.16 --> 1125.16] Jesus, the name above every other name -[1125.16 --> 1130.36] Jesus, the name above every other name -[1130.36 --> 1135.36] Jesus, the name above every other name -[1135.36 --> 1138.48] the great breath we could ever breathe -[1138.48 --> 1141.92] we live for you -[1141.92 --> 1146.56] we live for you -[1146.56 --> 1151.84] holy there is no one like you -[1151.84 --> 1155.36] there is none beside you -[1155.36 --> 1159.36] open up my eyes -[1165.36 --> 1169.36] with your heart and needy -[1169.36 --> 1175.36] give your love to those around me -[1175.36 --> 1181.36] Jesus the name above every other name -[1181.36 --> 1189.36] Jesus the only one who could ever save -[1189.36 --> 1193.36] worthy of every breath we could ever breathe -[1193.36 --> 1197.36] we live for you -[1197.36 --> 1201.36] we live for you -[1201.36 --> 1207.36] holy there is no one like you -[1207.36 --> 1211.36] there is none beside you -[1211.36 --> 1215.36] open up my eyes in wonder -[1215.36 --> 1219.36] show me who you are -[1219.36 --> 1223.36] and fill me with your heart -[1223.36 --> 1225.36] and needy -[1225.36 --> 1229.36] give love to those around me -[1229.36 --> 1255.36] olur -[1255.36 --> 1264.62] I will build my life upon your love -[1264.62 --> 1270.08] It is a birth foundation -[1270.08 --> 1278.14] I will put my trust in you alone -[1278.14 --> 1283.76] And I will not be shaken -[1283.76 --> 1291.66] I will build my life upon your love -[1291.66 --> 1297.12] It is a birth foundation -[1297.12 --> 1305.06] I will put my trust in you alone -[1305.06 --> 1310.48] And I will not be shaken -[1310.48 --> 1315.98] Holy, there is no one like you -[1315.98 --> 1319.52] There is none beside you -[1319.52 --> 1324.62] Open up my eyes in wonder -[1324.62 --> 1328.44] And show me who you are -[1328.44 --> 1331.38] And fill me with your heart -[1331.38 --> 1339.28] And lead me in your love to those around me -[1339.28 --> 1343.78] Let's pray together -[1343.78 --> 1348.24] We love you, Lord -[1348.24 --> 1352.18] But we confess that we can struggle -[1352.18 --> 1354.96] With reconciling your ways -[1354.96 --> 1357.04] With our desires and plans -[1357.04 --> 1362.34] We confess that we don't always fully place our trust in you -[1362.34 --> 1365.94] That in times of trial and weakness -[1365.94 --> 1370.06] We can be short-sighted and impatient in our faith -[1370.06 --> 1373.56] Help us in our weakness, we pray, Lord -[1373.56 --> 1376.26] Forgive our times of unbelief -[1376.26 --> 1379.24] And doubt in your sovereignty over our lives -[1379.24 --> 1385.02] Lord, may our hearts be filled with the final words of Psalm 13 -[1385.02 --> 1388.48] But I trust in your unfailing love -[1388.48 --> 1391.82] My heart rejoices in your salvation -[1391.82 --> 1394.94] I will sing the Lord's praise -[1394.94 --> 1397.12] For he has been good to me -[1397.12 --> 1427.10] I cry out for your hand of mercy to heal me -[1427.10 --> 1430.80] I am free, I am free -[1430.80 --> 1436.06] I need your love to free me -[1436.06 --> 1439.52] Oh, Lord, my Lord -[1439.52 --> 1443.90] My strength and weakness -[1443.90 --> 1448.74] Have rescued me -[1448.74 --> 1452.08] Oh, Lord -[1452.08 --> 1454.80] You are my hope -[1454.80 --> 1460.10] Your promise never fails -[1460.10 --> 1463.46] And my desire -[1463.46 --> 1468.96] Is to follow you forever -[1468.96 --> 1471.76] For you are good -[1471.76 --> 1473.92] For you are good -[1473.92 --> 1477.76] For you are good to me -[1477.76 --> 1480.56] For you are good -[1480.56 --> 1482.76] For you are good -[1482.76 --> 1487.26] For you are good to me -[1487.26 --> 1499.22] I cry out for your hand of mercy to heal me -[1499.22 --> 1502.52] I am free -[1502.52 --> 1507.88] I need your love to free me -[1507.88 --> 1510.06] Oh, Lord -[1510.06 --> 1511.18] My God -[1511.18 --> 1515.52] Do my strength and weakness -[1515.52 --> 1520.30] And rescue me -[1520.30 --> 1521.30] Oh, Lord -[1521.30 --> 1525.60] You are my hope -[1525.60 --> 1527.10] You are my hope -[1527.10 --> 1533.14] Your promise never fails me -[1533.14 --> 1534.96] And my desire -[1534.96 --> 1541.46] Is to follow you forever -[1541.46 --> 1542.44] For you are good -[1542.44 --> 1559.32] For you are good, for you are good, for you are good to me. -[1559.32 --> 1578.58] For you are good, for you are good, for you are good to me. -[1589.32 --> 1619.30] For you are good, for you are good, for you are good. -[1620.30 --> 1630.06] Because you were forsaken, I'm accepted, you were condemned. -[1632.28 --> 1643.02] I'm alive and builds in your spirit as within me, because you die and rose again. -[1643.02 --> 1647.76] I'm forgiven -[1647.76 --> 1651.60] Because you were forsaken -[1651.60 --> 1654.84] I'm accepted -[1654.84 --> 1658.52] You were condemned -[1658.52 --> 1662.62] I'm alive and well -[1662.62 --> 1665.82] Your spirit is within me -[1665.82 --> 1670.62] Because you died and rose again -[1670.62 --> 1676.72] Amazing love -[1676.72 --> 1679.86] How can it be -[1679.86 --> 1685.98] That you, my King, would die for me -[1685.98 --> 1690.84] Amazing love -[1690.84 --> 1693.42] I know it's true -[1693.42 --> 1699.62] It's my joy to honor you -[1699.62 --> 1702.62] In all I do -[1703.30 --> 1706.06] I honor you -[1706.06 --> 1710.74] I'm forgiven -[1710.74 --> 1714.62] Because you were forsaken -[1714.62 --> 1717.96] I'm accepted -[1717.96 --> 1721.62] You were condemned -[1721.62 --> 1725.88] I'm alive and well -[1725.88 --> 1729.06] Your spirit is within me -[1729.06 --> 1733.74] Because you died and rose again -[1733.74 --> 1738.94] Amazing love -[1738.94 --> 1743.38] How long can it be -[1743.38 --> 1749.38] That you, my King, would die for me -[1749.38 --> 1753.94] Amazing love -[1753.94 --> 1756.94] I know it's true -[1756.94 --> 1757.94] I know it's true -[1757.94 --> 1762.38] It's my joy to honor you -[1762.38 --> 1765.94] In all I do -[1765.94 --> 1769.94] I honor you -[1769.94 --> 1776.38] You are my King -[1776.38 --> 1781.62] You are my King -[1781.62 --> 1784.06] You are my King -[1784.06 --> 1790.10] Jesus, you are my King -[1790.10 --> 1803.78] Jesus, you are my King -[1803.78 --> 1808.22] Jesus, you are my King -[1808.22 --> 1810.30] Jesus, you are my King -[1810.30 --> 1812.44] Jesus, you are my King -[1812.44 --> 1820.18] Praise and love, I know it's true -[1820.18 --> 1825.94] It's my joy to honor you -[1825.94 --> 1829.10] In all I do -[1829.10 --> 1832.64] I honor you -[1832.64 --> 1836.36] In all I do -[1836.36 --> 1840.26] I honor you -[1842.44 --> 1843.58] I invite you to be seated -[1843.58 --> 1866.70] Good morning, my name is Yap, I'm a deacon here at Emmanuel -[1866.70 --> 1870.26] We continue our worship with the giving of our gifts -[1870.26 --> 1875.30] First to the budget and the special offering will be for Night Shift Ministries -[1875.30 --> 1886.78] Night Shift is a non-profit organization offering food, clothing, crisis counseling, basic nursing, prayer, and other services to those in need -[1886.78 --> 1892.12] The outreach happens 365 days a year -[1892.12 --> 1895.62] They have a volunteer base of over 2,500 people -[1895.62 --> 1898.62] And your financial support is greatly appreciated -[1898.62 --> 1902.96] Matthew 25, verse 35 and 36 -[1902.96 --> 1905.74] For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat -[1905.74 --> 1908.44] I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink -[1908.44 --> 1911.24] I was a stranger and you invited me in -[1911.24 --> 1913.14] I needed clothes and you clothed me -[1913.14 --> 1915.74] I was sick and you looked after me -[1915.74 --> 1918.22] I was in prison and you came to visit me -[1918.22 --> 1922.42] Next week's offering will be for Wagner Hills -[1922.42 --> 1923.26] Thank you -[1923.26 --> 1924.26] Thank you -[1924.26 --> 1925.26] Thank you -[1925.26 --> 1926.26] Thank you -[1926.26 --> 1928.26] Thank you -[1928.26 --> 1930.26] Thank you -[1930.26 --> 1943.94] Thank you -[1943.94 --> 1948.08] Thank you -[1948.08 --> 1958.68] In the depths I cry to you, in darkest places I will call. -[1959.48 --> 1967.78] Inclined your ear to be a new, and here I cry for mercy. -[1967.78 --> 1979.78] Oh, how could I come before your throne? -[1980.86 --> 1990.18] Yet full forgiveness meets my name, I stand redeemed by grace alone. -[1990.18 --> 2001.10] I will wait for you, I will wait for you, on your word I will rely. -[2002.66 --> 2011.82] I will wait for you, surely wait for you, till my soul is satisfied. -[2020.18 --> 2031.24] So push your hope in God alone, take courage in His power to stay. -[2032.44 --> 2042.02] Completely and forever won, by Christ emerging from the grave. -[2042.02 --> 2052.94] I will wait for you, I will wait for you, on your word I will rely. -[2054.32 --> 2063.56] I will wait for you, surely wait for you, till my soul satisfies. -[2063.56 --> 2093.54] I will wait for you, till my soul satisfies. -[2093.56 --> 2107.04] I will wait for you, I will wait for you, through the storm and through the night. -[2107.58 --> 2116.96] I will wait for you, surely wait for you, for your love is my delight. -[2117.12 --> 2134.18] I will wait for you, I will wait for you, I will wait for you, I will wait for you, till my soul satisfies. -[2134.18 --> 2140.42] Till my soul is satisfied. -[2164.18 --> 2166.32] Good morning, everyone. -[2166.48 --> 2168.28] Before we get to Kids Corner this morning, -[2168.44 --> 2170.24] we had a council meeting this week, -[2170.30 --> 2175.42] so at this time I just want to give you all a summary of what we were talking about, -[2175.42 --> 2179.84] what was on the agenda this week, so I will do that this time. -[2181.00 --> 2184.52] Some of the highlights from this meeting this week on Tuesday -[2184.52 --> 2187.36] was we reviewed the ministry leader and coordinator list, -[2187.42 --> 2189.88] so we have a nice list of ministry leaders at this church, -[2189.88 --> 2194.68] and it was great to see all the people who are involved in all the ministries here -[2194.68 --> 2197.38] making the programs and stuff happen at this church, -[2197.48 --> 2199.10] so that was great to be able to review that. -[2201.02 --> 2205.58] We had a report on the Safe Church training sessions -[2205.58 --> 2208.30] that have been going on here over the last little bit. -[2208.38 --> 2210.36] I think there might be one more coming up or no? -[2210.96 --> 2211.32] Hopefully. -[2211.96 --> 2212.16] Okay. -[2213.04 --> 2215.30] We have an updated facility use policy. -[2215.42 --> 2217.26] We've got a lot of interest in our church right now. -[2217.36 --> 2218.62] We're renting some facilities here, -[2218.62 --> 2222.78] so we are working on a policy for rentals. -[2224.94 --> 2226.84] Spent a considerable time reviewing. -[2226.96 --> 2228.02] This is budget time of the year, -[2228.06 --> 2230.16] so we spent a considerable time reviewing the budget -[2230.16 --> 2231.96] at our council meeting -[2231.96 --> 2235.00] and preparing it to present to you, to the congregation. -[2236.36 --> 2238.12] Our pastors gave us some reports. -[2239.72 --> 2241.20] For your information, -[2241.36 --> 2244.32] classes is happening this week in Surrey at Fleetwood. -[2245.74 --> 2246.88] And good news, I guess, -[2246.88 --> 2249.18] the new chairs have been ordered for the sanctuary, -[2249.38 --> 2251.00] so they should be coming sometime. -[2252.00 --> 2254.80] I think Sylvie said it might take 14 weeks or something like that, -[2254.84 --> 2257.04] so that's on the schedule. -[2257.46 --> 2258.96] So that's what happens. -[2260.06 --> 2261.72] All right, I'm taking my council hat off, -[2261.74 --> 2265.38] and now we're going to do children's worship time activities. -[2265.54 --> 2267.10] So if all the kids want to come up front -[2267.10 --> 2268.66] to hear for children's worship time, -[2268.66 --> 2270.40] that would be great. -[2277.78 --> 2278.80] Awesome, you're fast. -[2282.02 --> 2283.50] If you're a visitor here, -[2284.06 --> 2286.42] I think it's anyone who's eligible -[2286.42 --> 2289.00] to go to children's worship time up to grade four? -[2290.00 --> 2290.92] Up to grade four. -[2291.04 --> 2291.30] All right. -[2292.12 --> 2293.72] Oh, we got a nice crew of kids here this morning. -[2293.78 --> 2294.68] This morning, kids, -[2294.98 --> 2295.86] how's everybody doing? -[2295.86 --> 2298.22] Can we do that louder? -[2298.78 --> 2299.22] Yes! -[2299.90 --> 2300.60] I like that. -[2301.16 --> 2301.98] All right. -[2303.02 --> 2304.08] This morning, -[2304.38 --> 2306.50] we are talking about -[2306.50 --> 2308.88] Genesis in the Bible, -[2309.28 --> 2313.40] and God created the earth in six days, -[2313.44 --> 2314.30] and on the seventh day, -[2314.38 --> 2314.92] he rested. -[2315.04 --> 2317.12] So we're going to talk a little bit about rest today. -[2318.44 --> 2319.86] Now, I used to have, -[2320.02 --> 2320.64] or I had, -[2320.76 --> 2322.06] kids that were about your age, -[2322.10 --> 2323.48] and I remember when they were little, -[2323.48 --> 2325.62] they often needed a lot of rest. -[2325.68 --> 2326.50] Do you guys need rest, -[2326.54 --> 2327.28] or can you guys, like, -[2327.32 --> 2328.82] stay up pretty late at night and stuff? -[2329.98 --> 2330.46] Oh, yeah? -[2330.52 --> 2330.88] You can? -[2331.82 --> 2332.38] Okay, well, -[2332.48 --> 2333.66] I did a little bit of research -[2333.66 --> 2334.94] because I had some good memories -[2334.94 --> 2336.32] of what my kids were like -[2336.32 --> 2337.66] when they were a little younger -[2337.66 --> 2338.46] than maybe you guys, -[2338.52 --> 2339.70] and they would just be playing -[2339.70 --> 2340.60] as hard as they could, -[2340.66 --> 2341.72] and then they would kind of, like, -[2341.78 --> 2342.58] just pass out -[2342.58 --> 2343.60] and need a lot of rest. -[2344.18 --> 2345.42] So can everybody see -[2345.42 --> 2346.96] the screen up front there? -[2348.90 --> 2349.54] We're going to roll. -[2349.62 --> 2350.86] Does any of this look like you? -[2350.94 --> 2351.56] Have any of you guys -[2351.56 --> 2353.14] ever been in this kind of position before? -[2353.68 --> 2354.70] I bet you your parents -[2354.70 --> 2355.40] would say otherwise. -[2355.60 --> 2356.54] Okay, the next one. -[2356.70 --> 2357.32] How about that? -[2357.40 --> 2357.92] Is that you? -[2359.58 --> 2360.52] Never done that? -[2361.00 --> 2362.02] How about the next one? -[2362.66 --> 2363.46] How about that one? -[2364.28 --> 2365.72] How about at this time of the year? -[2365.98 --> 2367.28] There's lots of pumpkins out there. -[2367.34 --> 2368.18] Nobody's done that? -[2368.94 --> 2369.82] How about the next one? -[2370.60 --> 2371.68] How about that? -[2371.94 --> 2372.98] Going for a walk? -[2374.16 --> 2374.78] Never did that. -[2374.82 --> 2375.64] How about the next one? -[2376.16 --> 2376.86] How about that one? -[2376.86 --> 2376.88] How about that one? -[2376.88 --> 2380.90] Nobody's done that? -[2383.12 --> 2384.66] I think I caught one of my boys -[2384.66 --> 2385.50] doing that one time. -[2385.60 --> 2386.44] Okay, next one. -[2386.96 --> 2387.76] How about that one? -[2387.80 --> 2388.82] Going shopping with mom. -[2391.06 --> 2392.28] How about the next one? -[2393.34 --> 2393.98] How about a... -[2393.98 --> 2394.78] Have you ever seen a... -[2394.78 --> 2395.54] What about that line? -[2395.60 --> 2396.82] Is he taking a nice little nap -[2396.82 --> 2397.60] there on that log? -[2398.10 --> 2398.46] Never. -[2398.90 --> 2399.24] No. -[2399.94 --> 2401.04] And I think there's one more. -[2401.12 --> 2401.90] Another pet one. -[2402.32 --> 2403.04] How about that guy? -[2403.04 --> 2404.56] He's taking a break there, too. -[2404.56 --> 2407.62] All right, so today we're going to -[2407.62 --> 2408.78] talk a bit about rest -[2408.78 --> 2409.78] and children's worship time, -[2409.86 --> 2410.88] but before we do that, -[2410.96 --> 2411.90] we're going to do the blessings, -[2412.06 --> 2413.28] so can everyone stand up -[2413.28 --> 2414.34] and face the congregation? -[2419.48 --> 2419.84] Ready? -[2420.06 --> 2420.56] The... -[2420.56 --> 2422.56] The... -[2422.56 --> 2423.56] The... -[2423.56 --> 2424.56] The... -[2424.56 --> 2425.56] The... -[2434.56 --> 2460.30] Before we open God's Word together, -[2460.30 --> 2461.98] I'm going to lead us -[2461.98 --> 2463.80] in our church family prayer. -[2467.98 --> 2468.98] In this prayer, -[2469.16 --> 2471.40] we're going to pray for a few things. -[2472.10 --> 2472.90] First of all, -[2473.48 --> 2474.90] we are going to pray -[2474.90 --> 2476.82] for the election -[2476.82 --> 2477.98] that took place yesterday -[2477.98 --> 2479.14] and the leaders -[2479.14 --> 2480.96] who were elected there. -[2482.30 --> 2483.74] I don't see her this morning, -[2483.88 --> 2484.64] but Marg Kuntz, -[2484.74 --> 2485.10] who is... -[2485.10 --> 2485.64] There you are. -[2485.74 --> 2486.06] Thank you. -[2486.14 --> 2487.12] Marg was re-elected, -[2487.12 --> 2488.66] so congratulations to you. -[2488.66 --> 2488.78] Thank you. -[2491.98 --> 2495.06] You can chat with her -[2495.06 --> 2495.84] after the service. -[2495.92 --> 2497.38] I'm sure she would appreciate that. -[2498.18 --> 2499.38] Also, we're going to pray -[2499.38 --> 2500.16] for some people -[2500.16 --> 2502.96] who need our intercession -[2502.96 --> 2504.40] and who are mourning, -[2504.62 --> 2505.60] and so we're going to pray -[2505.60 --> 2507.20] with Elsa Hubertz. -[2508.04 --> 2509.30] Her father, Cornelius, -[2509.38 --> 2509.98] passed away, -[2510.68 --> 2512.40] 94 years old, -[2512.74 --> 2515.18] this past Friday, -[2515.18 --> 2516.38] and so they are -[2516.38 --> 2518.06] in the midst of mourning -[2518.06 --> 2519.68] and making plans there, -[2519.68 --> 2520.70] and so we're going to pray -[2520.70 --> 2522.44] for the Hubertz family -[2522.44 --> 2523.82] and the Verkike families -[2523.82 --> 2524.32] as well, -[2524.66 --> 2525.76] Case and Anna Marie, -[2525.98 --> 2528.22] who are nephews to Cornelius. -[2529.02 --> 2531.16] There's lots of connections there. -[2531.98 --> 2533.52] We're also going to pray -[2533.52 --> 2536.00] this morning for John Trass. -[2536.34 --> 2537.70] John used to be a member here. -[2537.80 --> 2539.72] He's Ivan, Kim's father, -[2540.76 --> 2541.84] brother-in-law, right, -[2541.92 --> 2543.40] Dolores, brother-in-law to you. -[2543.64 --> 2544.24] Connected here. -[2544.24 --> 2547.26] He fell into his mechanics pit -[2547.26 --> 2550.18] and is in the hospital, -[2550.44 --> 2551.56] has broken ribs -[2551.56 --> 2552.78] and broken vertebrae -[2552.78 --> 2554.96] and will need surgery, -[2555.70 --> 2559.94] and right now is sleeping, -[2560.44 --> 2563.14] but they're asking for our prayers -[2563.14 --> 2564.10] and for intercession -[2564.10 --> 2564.80] on their behalf, -[2564.88 --> 2566.26] so we're going to pray -[2566.26 --> 2567.92] for them as well. -[2568.64 --> 2569.68] There are other things -[2569.68 --> 2570.44] that will come up -[2570.44 --> 2571.48] in our prayer -[2571.48 --> 2572.32] that you can find -[2572.32 --> 2574.16] also made reference to -[2574.16 --> 2575.26] in our e-bulletin -[2575.26 --> 2576.40] that goes out. -[2576.70 --> 2577.46] Will you join your heart -[2577.46 --> 2578.52] with me in prayer? -[2584.02 --> 2587.04] Holy and almighty God, -[2587.68 --> 2588.76] we gather here -[2588.76 --> 2590.74] as your bride, -[2591.46 --> 2592.60] as the church family, -[2593.16 --> 2595.40] because you are most worthy -[2595.40 --> 2596.42] to be praised. -[2597.22 --> 2598.38] We gather here -[2598.38 --> 2600.18] because you are God alone -[2600.18 --> 2601.66] and to you alone -[2601.66 --> 2603.40] may we cry out for help. -[2603.76 --> 2604.78] To you alone -[2604.78 --> 2606.30] should we cry out for help -[2606.30 --> 2607.52] because you alone -[2607.52 --> 2609.02] are the only one -[2609.02 --> 2611.56] able to do anything about it. -[2611.62 --> 2612.72] And so, Lord God, -[2612.80 --> 2614.10] in your majesty, -[2614.34 --> 2616.22] in your sovereign power, -[2616.46 --> 2618.26] hear our prayers -[2618.26 --> 2619.86] and use them -[2619.86 --> 2622.36] to guide and to shape history -[2622.36 --> 2624.66] towards your ends -[2624.66 --> 2625.94] for your glory -[2625.94 --> 2627.20] and for the good -[2627.20 --> 2628.18] of all those -[2628.18 --> 2629.20] whom you have called. -[2631.04 --> 2631.82] Father God, -[2631.90 --> 2632.76] as we gather -[2632.76 --> 2633.86] in this place, -[2634.06 --> 2634.82] we know that there -[2634.82 --> 2636.60] are places -[2636.60 --> 2637.50] around the world -[2637.50 --> 2638.24] that are unable -[2638.24 --> 2638.98] to do so. -[2640.28 --> 2640.96] There are Christians -[2640.96 --> 2642.56] who cannot gather -[2642.56 --> 2644.14] in groups of this size -[2644.14 --> 2645.66] or in groups at all -[2645.66 --> 2646.98] for fear of death -[2646.98 --> 2648.00] or being arrested -[2648.00 --> 2649.46] because of persecution. -[2650.36 --> 2650.70] And so, -[2650.80 --> 2651.62] we pray for them -[2651.62 --> 2653.06] both for the boldness -[2653.06 --> 2653.92] of their faith -[2653.92 --> 2655.52] in still yet gathering -[2655.52 --> 2656.40] as well, -[2656.54 --> 2656.96] Lord God, -[2657.02 --> 2658.42] that you would protect them -[2658.42 --> 2660.06] and preserve them. -[2662.50 --> 2663.34] And God, -[2663.48 --> 2665.94] through their mighty influence, -[2666.82 --> 2668.88] may they change -[2668.88 --> 2670.16] the world around them. -[2671.28 --> 2672.68] May we be inspired -[2672.68 --> 2673.98] to change the world -[2673.98 --> 2674.88] around us -[2674.88 --> 2676.48] even as we gather -[2676.48 --> 2678.04] here in this place. -[2678.18 --> 2678.72] We thank you -[2678.72 --> 2679.52] for the opportunity -[2679.52 --> 2680.40] to do so -[2680.40 --> 2681.42] and we thank you -[2681.42 --> 2682.04] for the brothers -[2682.04 --> 2682.70] and sisters -[2682.70 --> 2684.28] with whom we gather. -[2684.28 --> 2685.16] We thank you -[2685.16 --> 2685.90] for the questions -[2685.90 --> 2687.46] that draw us here, -[2687.62 --> 2688.60] for the praises -[2688.60 --> 2690.18] that emanate from here, -[2690.28 --> 2691.64] and as we go -[2691.64 --> 2692.50] later today, -[2692.64 --> 2693.46] may we do so -[2693.46 --> 2694.22] in the power -[2694.22 --> 2695.92] of your holy name -[2695.92 --> 2696.50] to reveal -[2696.50 --> 2697.56] your kingdom come -[2697.56 --> 2698.98] and your kingdom coming, -[2699.38 --> 2700.28] that we might be -[2700.28 --> 2700.80] ambassadors -[2700.80 --> 2701.80] of reconciliation -[2701.80 --> 2702.78] and agents -[2702.78 --> 2703.48] of transformation -[2703.48 --> 2705.34] in our homes -[2705.34 --> 2706.28] and our neighborhoods, -[2706.56 --> 2707.36] our workplaces, -[2707.48 --> 2708.60] and wherever it is, -[2708.72 --> 2709.08] Lord God, -[2709.14 --> 2709.82] that you call us, -[2709.88 --> 2710.28] whether that is -[2710.28 --> 2711.14] around the world -[2711.14 --> 2712.80] or close to home. -[2712.80 --> 2715.74] Father, -[2715.84 --> 2716.54] as we look -[2716.54 --> 2718.12] close to home, -[2718.28 --> 2719.30] we know that there are -[2719.30 --> 2720.74] still wildfires -[2720.74 --> 2721.64] that are persisting -[2721.64 --> 2722.26] and new fires -[2722.26 --> 2723.08] that are starting up -[2723.08 --> 2723.50] and that are, -[2723.80 --> 2724.62] once again, -[2724.74 --> 2725.70] we are experiencing -[2725.70 --> 2727.18] a season of drought. -[2728.50 --> 2729.00] And so, God, -[2729.06 --> 2732.24] we praise your name -[2732.24 --> 2733.40] for the weather -[2733.40 --> 2734.24] that we have had -[2734.24 --> 2735.14] and for the blessing -[2735.14 --> 2735.88] that it has been -[2735.88 --> 2736.72] into October -[2736.72 --> 2738.80] to enjoy it as such -[2738.80 --> 2740.68] and yet we need rain. -[2741.86 --> 2742.48] Father God, -[2742.48 --> 2743.80] we have only had -[2743.80 --> 2745.38] 20 millimeters of rain -[2745.38 --> 2746.26] since July -[2746.26 --> 2747.56] and we ask -[2747.56 --> 2748.38] that you would -[2748.38 --> 2750.06] send rain. -[2752.76 --> 2753.24] God, -[2753.30 --> 2754.42] we pray for those -[2754.42 --> 2755.08] who are affected -[2755.08 --> 2756.54] by these fires, -[2756.78 --> 2758.06] both in the damage -[2758.06 --> 2759.26] of property -[2759.26 --> 2761.28] and the loss of life, -[2761.36 --> 2763.16] but also for the quality -[2763.16 --> 2763.82] of life -[2763.82 --> 2764.38] and the air, -[2764.56 --> 2765.72] the impact on air -[2765.72 --> 2766.32] and the struggle -[2766.32 --> 2767.60] that some have to breathe -[2767.60 --> 2768.80] during these times. -[2768.92 --> 2770.70] We pray that you would -[2770.70 --> 2772.22] be near to them -[2772.22 --> 2773.36] and restore them -[2773.36 --> 2774.92] and protect them -[2774.92 --> 2775.94] in this season. -[2777.58 --> 2778.32] As well, -[2778.38 --> 2778.80] Lord God, -[2778.92 --> 2779.50] here, -[2779.92 --> 2781.18] we thank you -[2781.18 --> 2783.46] for yesterday's election. -[2784.02 --> 2785.00] We thank you -[2785.00 --> 2785.56] for the way -[2785.56 --> 2787.30] that you are at work -[2787.30 --> 2787.94] among us -[2787.94 --> 2789.20] through elected officials -[2789.20 --> 2790.24] and public servants. -[2790.76 --> 2791.46] We pray, -[2791.72 --> 2791.92] Lord, -[2792.02 --> 2792.98] for the humility -[2792.98 --> 2793.92] of leaders -[2793.92 --> 2795.16] to serve you -[2795.16 --> 2797.06] in their office. -[2797.68 --> 2798.10] God, -[2798.16 --> 2798.56] even though -[2798.56 --> 2799.66] not all -[2799.66 --> 2801.00] acknowledge you -[2801.00 --> 2801.70] as Lord, -[2801.84 --> 2802.22] even though -[2802.22 --> 2803.30] not all who serve -[2803.30 --> 2804.28] do so -[2804.28 --> 2805.18] out of the power -[2805.18 --> 2805.78] of your name -[2805.78 --> 2806.82] and your Holy Spirit, -[2807.32 --> 2808.26] we pray that you -[2808.26 --> 2809.48] would use them -[2809.48 --> 2810.52] mightily. -[2812.00 --> 2812.66] And God, -[2812.72 --> 2813.58] for those who do -[2813.58 --> 2815.68] serve from that way, -[2815.78 --> 2816.30] for those who -[2816.30 --> 2818.10] walk into this position -[2818.10 --> 2819.70] holding up Jesus Christ -[2819.70 --> 2820.42] as the example -[2820.42 --> 2821.24] of what it means -[2821.24 --> 2821.78] to serve -[2821.78 --> 2822.46] and to lead, -[2823.04 --> 2823.74] we pray that you -[2823.74 --> 2824.82] would embolden them -[2824.82 --> 2825.66] in their faith, -[2825.80 --> 2827.02] that you would protect them -[2827.02 --> 2827.90] in their commitments, -[2828.18 --> 2828.84] and we pray, -[2828.98 --> 2829.30] Lord God, -[2829.36 --> 2830.78] that you would inspire them -[2830.78 --> 2832.28] to serve well. -[2834.28 --> 2834.74] God, -[2834.82 --> 2835.26] for Marg -[2835.26 --> 2835.82] and the service -[2835.82 --> 2837.06] that she is entering into, -[2837.20 --> 2839.08] we pray your hand upon her. -[2839.80 --> 2840.30] Bless her -[2840.30 --> 2841.06] and keep her. -[2841.18 --> 2841.86] Make your face -[2841.86 --> 2842.82] to shine upon her. -[2843.22 --> 2844.32] Be gracious to her. -[2845.12 --> 2846.12] Turn your face -[2846.12 --> 2846.68] toward her -[2846.68 --> 2847.50] in this task -[2847.50 --> 2849.40] and give her peace. -[2851.72 --> 2852.38] Father God, -[2852.44 --> 2853.60] we pray much the same -[2853.60 --> 2855.42] for the new mayor -[2855.42 --> 2856.72] of Langley Township, -[2856.82 --> 2857.24] for Eric, -[2857.34 --> 2858.00] and the new mayor -[2858.00 --> 2858.86] of Langley City, -[2859.00 --> 2859.46] for Nathan. -[2859.92 --> 2860.90] We ask God -[2860.90 --> 2861.58] that you would -[2861.58 --> 2863.14] work in them -[2863.14 --> 2863.74] and through them -[2863.74 --> 2864.46] and may they -[2864.46 --> 2866.30] experience blessing -[2866.30 --> 2867.26] and may we -[2867.26 --> 2868.10] by them -[2868.10 --> 2869.36] be blessed. -[2872.54 --> 2873.28] Father God, -[2873.34 --> 2875.38] we celebrate -[2875.38 --> 2876.88] today -[2876.88 --> 2877.56] with the -[2877.56 --> 2878.70] Agile family -[2878.70 --> 2879.66] and the -[2879.66 --> 2880.22] citizenship, -[2880.40 --> 2881.28] the Canadian citizenship -[2881.28 --> 2882.52] that they have received. -[2882.52 --> 2884.02] we praise God, -[2884.42 --> 2885.42] we praise you God -[2885.42 --> 2886.12] for this -[2886.12 --> 2888.28] opportunity to celebrate -[2888.28 --> 2889.12] with them -[2889.12 --> 2889.88] for the journey -[2889.88 --> 2890.98] that we have been on -[2890.98 --> 2891.56] with them -[2891.56 --> 2893.00] from refugees -[2893.00 --> 2894.42] now to citizens -[2894.42 --> 2895.94] and to brothers -[2895.94 --> 2896.70] and sisters. -[2897.38 --> 2897.78] We pray, -[2897.92 --> 2898.26] Lord God, -[2898.30 --> 2898.74] that you would -[2898.74 --> 2900.42] continue to -[2900.42 --> 2901.54] hold them -[2901.54 --> 2902.38] and uphold them -[2902.38 --> 2903.82] and as -[2903.82 --> 2905.24] Talal waits -[2905.24 --> 2906.24] for his -[2906.24 --> 2906.88] citizenship -[2906.88 --> 2907.48] paperwork, -[2908.12 --> 2909.12] we pray that you would -[2909.12 --> 2910.40] expedite that process -[2910.40 --> 2911.18] so he can -[2911.18 --> 2913.30] join in -[2913.30 --> 2914.42] this celebration -[2914.42 --> 2915.10] with the rest -[2915.10 --> 2916.14] of his family -[2916.14 --> 2917.08] as well. -[2919.08 --> 2919.92] Lord our God, -[2920.00 --> 2920.86] we pray for -[2920.86 --> 2922.40] intercession -[2922.40 --> 2923.32] in the lives -[2923.32 --> 2923.94] of those -[2923.94 --> 2925.00] who are mourning. -[2926.14 --> 2926.94] We think of -[2926.94 --> 2928.18] Cornelius' family, -[2929.14 --> 2929.90] we think of the -[2929.90 --> 2930.26] Hubert's -[2930.26 --> 2930.44] and the -[2930.44 --> 2930.88] Kikes, -[2931.12 --> 2932.04] Case and Marie -[2932.04 --> 2932.78] and ask, -[2932.92 --> 2933.32] Lord God, -[2933.40 --> 2934.64] that you would -[2934.64 --> 2935.68] draw near to them -[2935.68 --> 2936.60] in these days. -[2936.60 --> 2938.36] we ask, -[2938.46 --> 2938.80] Lord God, -[2938.86 --> 2940.36] that there would -[2940.36 --> 2941.14] be throughout -[2941.14 --> 2942.28] this time of -[2942.28 --> 2943.50] grief a testimony -[2943.50 --> 2945.16] of your nearness. -[2946.80 --> 2948.20] And as plans -[2948.20 --> 2948.80] are made -[2948.80 --> 2949.48] and as families -[2949.48 --> 2950.10] come together -[2950.10 --> 2951.00] to make decisions, -[2951.56 --> 2951.90] Lord God, -[2951.96 --> 2952.92] we pray for peace -[2952.92 --> 2954.16] in that process. -[2955.78 --> 2956.86] Draw near to all -[2956.86 --> 2957.70] that they might -[2957.70 --> 2958.82] receive from you -[2958.82 --> 2960.08] what they need. -[2962.28 --> 2962.80] Father, -[2962.92 --> 2963.44] as we -[2963.44 --> 2964.98] mourn this -[2964.98 --> 2965.84] loss with them, -[2965.84 --> 2966.54] we are mindful -[2966.54 --> 2967.38] of all those -[2967.38 --> 2968.60] who continue -[2968.60 --> 2969.30] in mourning. -[2970.12 --> 2970.74] We are mindful -[2970.74 --> 2973.04] of anniversaries -[2973.04 --> 2974.30] of deaths -[2974.30 --> 2975.00] that are -[2975.00 --> 2976.00] upcoming. -[2977.12 --> 2977.64] And we pray, -[2977.78 --> 2978.14] Lord God, -[2978.20 --> 2979.12] that in these days -[2979.12 --> 2979.70] and weeks, -[2980.18 --> 2981.50] even as our grief -[2981.50 --> 2982.44] persists, -[2982.70 --> 2983.48] we would know -[2983.48 --> 2984.76] your nearness. -[2985.42 --> 2985.92] We would know -[2985.92 --> 2986.54] your presence. -[2989.38 --> 2990.70] Speak words -[2990.70 --> 2991.30] of hope -[2991.30 --> 2992.40] and comfort -[2992.40 --> 2994.34] to our souls -[2994.34 --> 2995.70] as we walk -[2995.70 --> 2996.48] through the valley -[2996.48 --> 2997.14] of the shadow -[2997.14 --> 2997.58] of death. -[2999.30 --> 3000.06] Lord our God, -[3000.12 --> 3001.06] we pray also -[3001.06 --> 3002.50] for John Trass, -[3003.30 --> 3004.08] asking that you -[3004.08 --> 3005.34] would heal him, -[3006.14 --> 3006.74] asking that you -[3006.74 --> 3008.22] would protect him -[3008.22 --> 3009.08] and restore him, -[3009.14 --> 3009.62] whether it is -[3009.62 --> 3010.88] through the hands -[3010.88 --> 3011.76] of the surgeons, -[3011.98 --> 3012.46] the doctors, -[3012.60 --> 3013.58] and the hospital staff -[3013.58 --> 3014.94] who will provide -[3014.94 --> 3015.38] for him, -[3015.42 --> 3016.64] or through miraculous -[3016.64 --> 3017.16] means, -[3017.28 --> 3017.64] we pray, -[3017.78 --> 3018.20] Lord God, -[3018.30 --> 3020.10] hold him in your care -[3020.10 --> 3021.26] and may he know -[3021.26 --> 3023.02] your healing hand -[3023.02 --> 3023.70] upon him. -[3025.02 --> 3026.82] We pray for the family -[3026.82 --> 3027.68] and extended family -[3027.68 --> 3028.20] and friends -[3028.20 --> 3029.10] who will support -[3029.10 --> 3030.08] during this time. -[3030.22 --> 3030.78] May they too -[3030.78 --> 3032.44] know and see you -[3032.44 --> 3033.96] at work in the world, -[3034.10 --> 3035.42] in and through them, -[3035.84 --> 3036.92] as they serve John -[3036.92 --> 3037.48] in prayer -[3037.48 --> 3039.20] and in ministry. -[3041.80 --> 3042.62] Holy God, -[3042.62 --> 3045.96] we have a number -[3045.96 --> 3047.64] of members -[3047.64 --> 3049.34] and family -[3049.34 --> 3051.18] who are stepping -[3051.18 --> 3053.14] into intentional areas -[3053.14 --> 3053.76] of mission -[3053.76 --> 3054.78] and ministry -[3054.78 --> 3055.36] for you. -[3055.90 --> 3056.74] We think of Jared -[3056.74 --> 3057.70] with Cape and Ray -[3057.70 --> 3058.62] in Costa Rica. -[3058.80 --> 3059.94] We think of Cameron -[3059.94 --> 3061.60] who will be with -[3061.60 --> 3062.44] Athletes in Action -[3062.44 --> 3063.62] going to -[3063.62 --> 3065.96] Mauritius -[3065.96 --> 3067.48] and we pray, -[3067.70 --> 3068.04] Lord God, -[3068.10 --> 3068.72] that you would -[3068.72 --> 3070.26] be near to them -[3070.26 --> 3071.46] and bless them -[3071.46 --> 3072.60] in those efforts. -[3073.52 --> 3074.16] We think too -[3074.16 --> 3075.80] of Jody -[3075.80 --> 3076.38] and Uriel -[3076.38 --> 3077.22] and everyone -[3077.22 --> 3079.38] in Tijuana -[3079.38 --> 3080.48] and Rosarito -[3080.48 --> 3081.28] whom we know -[3081.28 --> 3081.90] and serve -[3081.90 --> 3082.84] and connect with -[3082.84 --> 3083.64] there. -[3084.20 --> 3085.42] We pray as well, -[3085.54 --> 3085.94] Lord God, -[3086.04 --> 3087.94] as Brandon -[3087.94 --> 3088.80] and Aaron, -[3089.02 --> 3089.56] Pastor Kevin -[3089.56 --> 3090.06] and myself -[3090.06 --> 3090.72] have a chance -[3090.72 --> 3091.38] in a little while -[3091.38 --> 3092.36] to head to Mexico -[3092.36 --> 3095.06] and to get engaged -[3095.06 --> 3095.96] in those connections -[3095.96 --> 3096.74] and connect with -[3096.74 --> 3097.14] the leaders -[3097.14 --> 3097.84] and the ministries -[3097.84 --> 3098.08] there, -[3098.18 --> 3099.16] that that relationship -[3099.16 --> 3100.86] would be bolstered -[3100.86 --> 3101.54] and we would -[3101.54 --> 3103.16] foster that -[3103.16 --> 3103.96] for the service -[3103.96 --> 3104.64] of your kingdom -[3104.64 --> 3106.12] and the proclaiming -[3106.12 --> 3106.74] of your gospel. -[3107.26 --> 3107.84] We thank you -[3107.84 --> 3109.38] for that unique privilege -[3109.38 --> 3111.36] as we serve you -[3111.36 --> 3112.12] in this way. -[3113.48 --> 3113.80] God, -[3113.92 --> 3114.98] we know and trust -[3114.98 --> 3115.70] that there are -[3115.70 --> 3116.42] many others -[3116.42 --> 3117.44] whom you are calling -[3117.44 --> 3118.88] to serve as missionaries -[3118.88 --> 3119.46] in the world -[3119.46 --> 3120.36] and so if they are -[3120.36 --> 3121.60] among us this morning, -[3121.70 --> 3122.86] may they hear that call -[3122.86 --> 3123.76] clearly -[3123.76 --> 3125.24] and may we, -[3125.44 --> 3126.26] as a church family, -[3126.42 --> 3127.30] surround them -[3127.30 --> 3128.60] in love -[3128.60 --> 3129.60] and support. -[3131.82 --> 3132.38] Finally, -[3132.62 --> 3132.90] Father, -[3133.04 --> 3134.36] we know that -[3134.36 --> 3136.96] there are -[3136.96 --> 3137.98] a number of us -[3137.98 --> 3139.16] this morning -[3139.16 --> 3142.24] who are not here -[3142.24 --> 3143.74] because of sickness, -[3144.02 --> 3144.58] because of -[3144.58 --> 3146.08] some sorts of illness -[3146.08 --> 3147.04] or treatments -[3147.04 --> 3148.94] or ongoing struggles, -[3149.04 --> 3149.72] whether it's flu -[3149.72 --> 3150.36] or COVID -[3150.36 --> 3151.76] or other health concerns. -[3152.18 --> 3152.66] We pray, -[3152.78 --> 3152.98] God, -[3153.04 --> 3154.66] just for a general healing -[3154.66 --> 3155.82] of all those -[3155.82 --> 3157.74] who need you now. -[3157.74 --> 3159.00] we pray for -[3159.00 --> 3161.00] the health -[3161.00 --> 3162.92] of our church family, -[3163.82 --> 3164.50] trusting that you -[3164.50 --> 3165.36] hear our prayer -[3165.36 --> 3166.36] and that you will act -[3166.36 --> 3167.56] according to your goodwill. -[3168.52 --> 3168.92] And God, -[3168.98 --> 3169.52] when it is -[3169.52 --> 3170.38] that your goodwill -[3170.38 --> 3171.26] does not match -[3171.26 --> 3172.10] our ideas -[3172.10 --> 3173.32] of what it should be, -[3173.62 --> 3175.22] we pray for humbled hearts -[3175.22 --> 3176.32] to trust -[3176.32 --> 3177.68] in you. -[3178.68 --> 3179.94] So we put our hope -[3179.94 --> 3180.82] in you. -[3181.32 --> 3183.24] We trust in your salvation -[3183.24 --> 3184.92] and we sing -[3184.92 --> 3185.68] your praises. -[3185.68 --> 3187.34] in Jesus Christ -[3187.34 --> 3187.96] we pray. -[3188.78 --> 3189.18] Amen. -[3189.18 --> 3201.56] We're going to -[3201.56 --> 3203.34] open together -[3203.34 --> 3204.50] and spend some time -[3204.50 --> 3207.08] in God's word. -[3207.24 --> 3207.94] We're going to read -[3207.94 --> 3208.60] this morning -[3208.60 --> 3210.32] from Psalm 13. -[3211.42 --> 3213.00] We are in our -[3213.00 --> 3216.34] series on the Psalms -[3216.34 --> 3217.04] called Faith -[3217.04 --> 3218.62] and All Our Feelings -[3218.62 --> 3219.72] and we're looking -[3219.72 --> 3220.34] at different -[3220.34 --> 3221.82] emotional experiences -[3221.82 --> 3222.72] and realities, -[3222.90 --> 3223.64] holding them up -[3223.64 --> 3225.12] to the word of God -[3225.12 --> 3225.88] and then asking -[3225.88 --> 3227.30] how we might be -[3227.30 --> 3228.32] encouraged -[3228.32 --> 3230.62] both to hold out -[3230.62 --> 3231.70] those emotions -[3231.70 --> 3232.94] to understand them -[3232.94 --> 3233.64] and then also -[3233.64 --> 3235.16] to be transformed -[3235.16 --> 3235.96] by the power -[3235.96 --> 3236.58] of the gospel -[3236.58 --> 3237.60] in that. -[3237.96 --> 3238.38] So we're going -[3238.38 --> 3239.32] to read Psalm 13. -[3239.46 --> 3239.92] We're going to read -[3239.92 --> 3240.72] the whole psalm -[3240.72 --> 3241.76] and then I'm going -[3241.76 --> 3242.46] to refer back -[3242.46 --> 3243.30] variously throughout. -[3243.44 --> 3244.28] So if you have a Bible -[3244.28 --> 3245.34] I encourage you -[3245.34 --> 3246.12] to have that -[3246.12 --> 3246.76] in front of you -[3246.76 --> 3247.44] as we go. -[3247.44 --> 3261.94] Psalm 13. -[3263.64 --> 3265.08] How long, Lord? -[3265.80 --> 3266.88] Will you forget me -[3266.88 --> 3267.20] forever? -[3268.14 --> 3269.08] How long -[3269.08 --> 3269.76] will you hide -[3269.76 --> 3270.40] your face -[3270.40 --> 3271.02] from me? -[3271.64 --> 3272.28] How long -[3272.28 --> 3273.04] must I wrestle -[3273.04 --> 3274.00] with my thoughts -[3274.00 --> 3275.32] and day after day -[3275.32 --> 3276.04] have sorrow -[3276.04 --> 3277.30] in my heart? -[3277.72 --> 3278.70] How long -[3278.70 --> 3279.72] will my enemy -[3279.72 --> 3281.82] triumph over me? -[3283.04 --> 3283.96] Look on me -[3283.96 --> 3284.88] and answer, -[3285.34 --> 3285.80] O God. -[3286.84 --> 3287.64] Give light -[3287.64 --> 3288.36] to my eyes -[3288.36 --> 3289.34] or I will sleep -[3289.34 --> 3290.50] in death. -[3291.10 --> 3291.80] And my enemy -[3291.80 --> 3292.26] will say, -[3292.40 --> 3293.78] I have overcome him -[3293.78 --> 3295.22] and my foes -[3295.22 --> 3296.18] will rejoice -[3296.18 --> 3297.10] when I fall. -[3298.68 --> 3299.88] But I trust -[3299.88 --> 3301.78] in your unfailing love. -[3301.78 --> 3303.52] my heart -[3303.52 --> 3304.18] rejoices -[3304.18 --> 3305.38] in your salvation. -[3306.74 --> 3307.88] I will sing -[3307.88 --> 3308.90] the Lord's praise -[3308.90 --> 3309.80] for he -[3309.80 --> 3310.88] has been good -[3310.88 --> 3311.42] to me. -[3312.30 --> 3313.10] This is the word -[3313.10 --> 3313.54] of the Lord. -[3313.54 --> 3322.02] This week, -[3322.20 --> 3322.44] I, -[3322.86 --> 3323.80] in preparation -[3323.80 --> 3324.44] for this, -[3324.72 --> 3325.92] read an essay -[3325.92 --> 3327.36] by Anna -[3327.36 --> 3328.06] Shane -[3328.06 --> 3329.02] Stardick. -[3331.02 --> 3332.04] Anna's essay -[3332.04 --> 3333.04] was called -[3333.04 --> 3334.46] If God -[3334.46 --> 3335.38] is alive, -[3336.18 --> 3336.76] I hate -[3336.76 --> 3337.08] him. -[3339.08 --> 3339.80] Now, -[3339.86 --> 3340.08] Anna -[3340.08 --> 3340.94] was diagnosed -[3340.94 --> 3342.40] with bipolar -[3342.40 --> 3343.22] one disorder -[3343.22 --> 3344.96] in her 20s. -[3346.30 --> 3347.30] And she writes, -[3348.26 --> 3350.12] I found myself -[3350.12 --> 3351.08] lying in a hospital -[3351.08 --> 3352.40] bed on suicide -[3352.40 --> 3352.94] watch. -[3353.58 --> 3354.40] There was no -[3354.40 --> 3355.58] meaning in my pain. -[3355.70 --> 3356.42] There couldn't be. -[3357.04 --> 3358.12] I couldn't pair it -[3358.12 --> 3358.68] with the Christian -[3358.68 --> 3359.48] answers anymore. -[3359.98 --> 3360.88] All I could think -[3360.88 --> 3361.88] was God is dead, -[3362.02 --> 3362.68] God is dead, -[3362.80 --> 3363.50] God is dead. -[3363.66 --> 3364.48] And what I meant -[3364.48 --> 3364.98] was, -[3365.62 --> 3366.64] if God is alive, -[3367.32 --> 3367.94] I hate him. -[3369.26 --> 3370.14] She goes on -[3370.14 --> 3370.50] to say, -[3371.26 --> 3372.02] I wallowed -[3372.02 --> 3372.64] in my -[3372.64 --> 3373.80] purposelessness, -[3374.32 --> 3374.96] comfortable -[3374.96 --> 3376.78] only in my -[3376.78 --> 3377.32] anger -[3377.32 --> 3378.76] at God. -[3381.18 --> 3381.52] Anna, -[3381.66 --> 3382.34] in that essay, -[3383.14 --> 3383.92] also writes -[3383.92 --> 3385.36] that the wrestling -[3385.36 --> 3386.42] I've done -[3386.42 --> 3387.36] isn't always -[3387.36 --> 3388.06] welcome -[3388.06 --> 3389.24] in Christian -[3389.24 --> 3390.24] circles. -[3391.50 --> 3392.02] Now, -[3392.06 --> 3392.44] I get -[3392.44 --> 3393.12] that that's -[3393.12 --> 3394.16] her perspective, -[3394.44 --> 3395.26] and it's probably -[3395.26 --> 3395.96] true that -[3395.96 --> 3396.96] had she talked -[3396.96 --> 3397.58] to a good -[3397.58 --> 3398.10] pastor -[3398.10 --> 3398.90] or a good -[3398.90 --> 3399.60] Christian friend, -[3399.60 --> 3400.06] she might -[3400.06 --> 3400.80] be surprised. -[3401.88 --> 3402.56] But I also -[3402.56 --> 3403.14] know that -[3403.14 --> 3403.66] when it comes -[3403.66 --> 3404.46] to our own -[3404.46 --> 3405.08] experience -[3405.08 --> 3406.18] of emotions, -[3406.70 --> 3407.70] our inner -[3407.70 --> 3408.36] perceptions -[3408.36 --> 3409.12] have the -[3409.12 --> 3409.64] tendency -[3409.64 --> 3410.94] to define -[3410.94 --> 3411.62] what's real. -[3412.74 --> 3412.86] Right? -[3412.96 --> 3413.54] So the point -[3413.54 --> 3414.16] being there -[3414.16 --> 3414.98] that she -[3414.98 --> 3416.04] experienced -[3416.04 --> 3416.86] her community -[3416.86 --> 3417.94] as unwelcoming -[3417.94 --> 3418.68] of the sorts -[3418.68 --> 3419.30] of wrestling -[3419.30 --> 3419.90] that she -[3419.90 --> 3420.88] needed to do, -[3421.16 --> 3421.62] and so that -[3421.62 --> 3422.64] means for her, -[3422.98 --> 3423.64] her community -[3423.64 --> 3425.16] was unwelcoming -[3425.16 --> 3425.86] of the sorts -[3425.86 --> 3426.38] of struggles -[3426.38 --> 3427.16] and questions -[3427.16 --> 3427.88] and cries -[3427.88 --> 3428.54] that she -[3428.54 --> 3428.84] had. -[3430.42 --> 3430.60] Now, -[3430.64 --> 3430.90] in this -[3430.90 --> 3431.30] series, -[3431.62 --> 3431.98] and we've -[3431.98 --> 3432.42] said this -[3432.42 --> 3433.06] so many -[3433.06 --> 3433.50] times, -[3433.60 --> 3433.92] but I say -[3433.92 --> 3434.22] it again -[3434.22 --> 3434.76] because it's -[3434.76 --> 3435.30] critical, -[3435.56 --> 3436.08] I hope -[3436.08 --> 3436.70] that's not -[3436.70 --> 3437.24] us. -[3438.24 --> 3438.76] And I hope -[3438.76 --> 3439.12] that's not -[3439.12 --> 3440.00] your experience -[3440.00 --> 3440.92] of this -[3440.92 --> 3441.72] church family. -[3441.84 --> 3441.94] Right? -[3441.96 --> 3442.36] I hope -[3442.36 --> 3442.64] that we -[3442.64 --> 3443.06] can keep -[3443.06 --> 3443.60] going -[3443.60 --> 3444.40] in our -[3444.40 --> 3444.92] ability -[3444.92 --> 3445.52] to be -[3445.52 --> 3446.08] a place -[3446.08 --> 3446.42] that is -[3446.42 --> 3446.74] safe -[3446.74 --> 3447.64] for vulnerable -[3447.64 --> 3448.14] people -[3448.14 --> 3448.54] and for -[3448.54 --> 3448.86] hurting -[3448.86 --> 3449.44] people -[3449.44 --> 3449.84] and for -[3449.84 --> 3450.30] questions -[3450.30 --> 3450.76] and for -[3450.76 --> 3451.10] doubt -[3451.10 --> 3451.74] and for -[3451.74 --> 3452.16] anger. -[3453.10 --> 3453.32] And that's -[3453.32 --> 3453.52] one of the -[3453.52 --> 3453.82] reasons why -[3453.82 --> 3454.14] I'm so -[3454.14 --> 3455.00] grateful for -[3455.00 --> 3455.58] the Women's -[3455.58 --> 3455.92] Fellowship -[3455.92 --> 3456.52] for organizing -[3456.52 --> 3458.14] this processing -[3458.14 --> 3459.12] grief event -[3459.12 --> 3459.98] because this -[3459.98 --> 3460.56] needs to be -[3460.56 --> 3461.04] the place -[3461.04 --> 3461.48] where we can -[3461.48 --> 3462.40] enter into -[3462.40 --> 3463.24] the pain -[3463.24 --> 3464.08] of others. -[3465.10 --> 3465.78] And as we -[3465.78 --> 3466.80] celebrate together, -[3466.94 --> 3467.42] as we share -[3467.42 --> 3467.82] joys, -[3467.92 --> 3468.36] as we share -[3468.36 --> 3468.82] encouragement, -[3468.94 --> 3469.34] as we share -[3469.34 --> 3469.62] hope, -[3469.88 --> 3470.68] I pray that we -[3470.68 --> 3471.40] can also -[3471.40 --> 3472.78] share pain -[3472.78 --> 3474.18] and heartache -[3474.18 --> 3475.12] and sorrow. -[3475.94 --> 3476.38] And that's -[3476.38 --> 3476.78] been my -[3476.78 --> 3477.68] experience of -[3477.68 --> 3478.30] you all -[3478.30 --> 3479.26] in my time -[3479.26 --> 3479.52] here. -[3479.62 --> 3480.04] I hope -[3480.04 --> 3481.32] that's yours -[3481.32 --> 3481.86] as well. -[3483.82 --> 3484.14] Now, -[3484.14 --> 3484.56] what I hope -[3484.56 --> 3484.84] that we -[3484.84 --> 3485.24] will see -[3485.24 --> 3485.94] today from -[3485.94 --> 3486.78] Psalm 13 -[3486.78 --> 3488.48] is that -[3488.48 --> 3490.02] being angry -[3490.02 --> 3490.98] at God -[3490.98 --> 3492.02] is still -[3492.02 --> 3492.76] an act -[3492.76 --> 3493.38] of faith. -[3494.90 --> 3495.68] But it's -[3495.68 --> 3496.40] important to -[3496.40 --> 3496.84] whom -[3496.84 --> 3498.80] and how -[3498.80 --> 3500.02] we express -[3500.02 --> 3500.56] that anger. -[3502.40 --> 3502.54] So, -[3502.60 --> 3503.30] Psalm 13 -[3503.30 --> 3504.14] teaches us -[3504.14 --> 3504.76] how to -[3504.76 --> 3505.74] express our -[3505.74 --> 3506.22] anger, -[3506.38 --> 3507.36] even anger -[3507.36 --> 3508.74] towards God, -[3508.86 --> 3509.66] and it teaches -[3509.66 --> 3510.46] us what to do -[3510.46 --> 3510.82] with those -[3510.82 --> 3511.24] feelings. -[3512.66 --> 3512.80] Now, -[3512.86 --> 3513.32] notice, -[3513.32 --> 3513.90] if you have -[3513.90 --> 3514.26] that in -[3514.26 --> 3514.58] front of -[3514.58 --> 3514.80] you, -[3515.14 --> 3516.58] the four-fold -[3516.58 --> 3517.16] repetition -[3517.16 --> 3517.94] of the -[3517.94 --> 3518.44] question, -[3518.84 --> 3519.48] how long, -[3519.54 --> 3519.88] in the -[3519.88 --> 3520.86] first two -[3520.86 --> 3521.18] verses. -[3522.34 --> 3522.98] Actually, -[3523.24 --> 3524.06] this is the -[3524.06 --> 3525.60] longest string -[3525.60 --> 3526.50] of consecutive -[3526.50 --> 3527.48] questions of -[3527.48 --> 3528.60] God in the -[3528.60 --> 3528.94] Psalter. -[3530.22 --> 3530.44] So, -[3530.50 --> 3530.98] it's a short -[3530.98 --> 3531.48] psalm, -[3531.68 --> 3532.02] yes, -[3532.80 --> 3533.26] but there's -[3533.26 --> 3534.30] a ton of -[3534.30 --> 3535.44] emotion packed -[3535.44 --> 3535.92] into these -[3535.92 --> 3536.52] short verses. -[3537.52 --> 3538.44] How long -[3538.44 --> 3538.80] will you -[3538.80 --> 3539.44] forget me? -[3540.20 --> 3541.18] How long -[3541.18 --> 3541.80] will you hide -[3541.80 --> 3542.30] your face -[3542.30 --> 3542.84] from me? -[3542.98 --> 3543.76] How long -[3543.76 --> 3544.22] must I -[3544.22 --> 3545.16] wrestle with -[3545.16 --> 3545.74] these thoughts? -[3546.00 --> 3546.76] How long -[3546.76 --> 3547.24] will my -[3547.24 --> 3547.72] enemy -[3547.72 --> 3548.52] triumph -[3548.52 --> 3549.66] over me? -[3552.06 --> 3552.58] Now, -[3552.60 --> 3553.02] there's something -[3553.02 --> 3555.00] really neat -[3555.00 --> 3556.28] that's happening -[3556.28 --> 3557.92] in this text -[3557.92 --> 3558.74] that you can't -[3558.74 --> 3559.64] fully understand -[3559.64 --> 3560.22] or grasp -[3560.22 --> 3560.94] unless you -[3560.94 --> 3561.88] know Hebrew. -[3562.96 --> 3563.28] And so, -[3563.42 --> 3564.04] for just a few -[3564.04 --> 3564.40] seconds, -[3564.52 --> 3564.76] I'm going to -[3564.76 --> 3565.36] teach you a -[3565.36 --> 3565.86] little bit of -[3565.86 --> 3567.00] Hebrew so that -[3567.00 --> 3567.64] you can see it. -[3567.64 --> 3569.36] the question, -[3569.60 --> 3570.42] how long, -[3570.62 --> 3571.40] in Hebrew, -[3571.68 --> 3572.58] is Adana. -[3573.50 --> 3574.38] Adana. -[3574.72 --> 3574.96] So, -[3575.04 --> 3575.84] David cries -[3575.84 --> 3576.48] four times, -[3576.62 --> 3577.24] Adana, -[3577.50 --> 3578.30] Adana, -[3578.54 --> 3579.30] Adana, -[3579.56 --> 3580.34] Adana. -[3581.94 --> 3582.42] Now, -[3582.62 --> 3583.06] if you have -[3583.06 --> 3583.74] ears to hear, -[3583.98 --> 3584.44] that might -[3584.44 --> 3585.30] sound familiar -[3585.30 --> 3585.84] to you. -[3586.32 --> 3587.12] Because one -[3587.12 --> 3587.74] of the Hebrew -[3587.74 --> 3588.80] names for God -[3588.80 --> 3589.40] that you might -[3589.40 --> 3590.24] know is -[3590.24 --> 3591.74] Adana. -[3593.38 --> 3593.66] Adana. -[3593.66 --> 3594.60] And so, -[3594.72 --> 3595.08] there's this -[3595.08 --> 3595.90] beautiful, -[3596.38 --> 3597.80] poetic crying -[3597.80 --> 3598.48] out that -[3598.48 --> 3599.74] David is doing -[3599.74 --> 3600.46] here that's -[3600.46 --> 3601.34] a crying out, -[3601.46 --> 3601.98] Adana, -[3602.34 --> 3604.32] to almost -[3604.32 --> 3604.76] God. -[3605.96 --> 3606.46] Right? -[3606.52 --> 3606.78] Or to -[3606.78 --> 3607.92] distant God. -[3608.08 --> 3608.82] Not quite -[3608.82 --> 3609.52] there. -[3610.94 --> 3611.74] And these -[3611.74 --> 3612.20] words, -[3612.32 --> 3612.92] Adana, -[3613.24 --> 3613.88] Adana, -[3614.04 --> 3614.52] over and -[3614.52 --> 3615.24] over is a -[3615.24 --> 3616.30] plaintive -[3616.30 --> 3617.42] crying out. -[3617.52 --> 3617.84] It's a sort -[3617.84 --> 3619.60] of onomatopoetic -[3619.60 --> 3620.86] mourning over -[3620.86 --> 3621.82] God's absence -[3621.82 --> 3622.84] and death. -[3622.84 --> 3624.16] absence -[3624.16 --> 3625.54] and distance. -[3627.66 --> 3628.86] And in -[3628.86 --> 3629.76] this repetition -[3629.76 --> 3631.08] four times -[3631.08 --> 3631.58] over and -[3631.58 --> 3631.90] over, -[3632.20 --> 3632.76] we see that -[3632.76 --> 3633.48] this isn't -[3633.48 --> 3634.06] just a -[3634.06 --> 3635.18] passing thought. -[3635.86 --> 3635.92] Right? -[3635.94 --> 3636.26] This isn't -[3636.26 --> 3636.78] just one -[3636.78 --> 3637.32] or two -[3637.32 --> 3638.90] hard experiences -[3638.90 --> 3640.12] for David. -[3641.18 --> 3641.66] And yes, -[3641.80 --> 3642.46] of course, -[3642.56 --> 3642.92] it's true, -[3643.02 --> 3643.18] right? -[3643.24 --> 3643.86] That our -[3643.86 --> 3644.56] own hearts, -[3644.64 --> 3645.14] and mine -[3645.14 --> 3646.02] is just -[3646.02 --> 3646.58] as guilty -[3646.58 --> 3647.06] as this -[3647.06 --> 3647.36] is the -[3647.36 --> 3647.92] next person, -[3648.18 --> 3648.74] our own -[3648.74 --> 3649.04] hearts -[3649.04 --> 3650.00] exaggerate -[3650.00 --> 3651.20] our plights. -[3651.86 --> 3651.98] Right? -[3651.98 --> 3652.96] We exaggerate -[3652.96 --> 3653.46] our own -[3653.46 --> 3654.20] victimhood. -[3655.40 --> 3655.76] But what -[3655.76 --> 3656.36] is being -[3656.36 --> 3656.90] talked about -[3656.90 --> 3657.44] here is -[3657.44 --> 3658.22] this season -[3658.22 --> 3658.94] of life -[3658.94 --> 3660.08] and experience -[3660.08 --> 3660.58] of life -[3660.58 --> 3660.90] that has -[3660.90 --> 3661.40] been going -[3661.40 --> 3662.34] on for -[3662.34 --> 3662.92] a long -[3662.92 --> 3663.78] time. -[3664.74 --> 3665.50] But even -[3665.50 --> 3665.94] more than -[3665.94 --> 3666.42] going on -[3666.42 --> 3666.88] for a long -[3666.88 --> 3667.28] time, -[3667.36 --> 3667.92] more importantly, -[3668.20 --> 3669.00] it seems -[3669.00 --> 3669.66] like there's -[3669.66 --> 3670.06] going to be -[3670.06 --> 3670.82] no end -[3670.82 --> 3671.70] to it. -[3673.50 --> 3674.12] And when -[3674.12 --> 3674.66] there's no -[3674.66 --> 3675.62] end to -[3675.62 --> 3676.78] our struggle, -[3677.54 --> 3677.68] right, -[3677.72 --> 3678.00] when there's -[3678.00 --> 3678.60] no end -[3678.60 --> 3679.22] in sight -[3679.22 --> 3679.58] to the -[3679.58 --> 3680.14] pain and -[3680.14 --> 3680.52] the hurt -[3680.52 --> 3680.82] and the -[3680.82 --> 3681.30] hardship, -[3681.68 --> 3683.00] that's when -[3683.00 --> 3683.38] we get -[3683.38 --> 3683.80] angry. -[3685.08 --> 3685.70] That's when -[3685.70 --> 3686.32] frustration -[3686.32 --> 3686.96] starts to -[3686.96 --> 3687.60] boil over. -[3688.04 --> 3688.46] That's when -[3688.46 --> 3689.08] we start to -[3689.08 --> 3689.66] say things -[3689.66 --> 3690.02] like, -[3690.42 --> 3690.74] if God -[3690.74 --> 3691.42] is alive, -[3692.04 --> 3692.46] I hate -[3692.46 --> 3692.70] him. -[3695.26 --> 3695.74] Now, -[3695.78 --> 3696.14] I also -[3696.14 --> 3697.68] know that -[3697.68 --> 3698.12] this kind -[3698.12 --> 3698.64] of talk -[3698.64 --> 3699.12] makes some -[3699.12 --> 3699.38] of us -[3699.38 --> 3699.94] uncomfortable. -[3701.32 --> 3702.04] And entering -[3702.04 --> 3702.54] into these -[3702.54 --> 3702.88] kind of -[3702.88 --> 3703.32] moments -[3703.32 --> 3704.10] makes some -[3704.10 --> 3704.36] of us -[3704.36 --> 3704.48] go, -[3704.60 --> 3704.78] nope, -[3704.96 --> 3705.16] nope, -[3705.54 --> 3705.96] not doing -[3705.96 --> 3706.16] it. -[3707.08 --> 3707.54] And there's -[3707.54 --> 3708.28] a temptation -[3708.28 --> 3709.24] when you -[3709.24 --> 3709.80] feel this -[3709.80 --> 3710.22] way or -[3710.22 --> 3710.66] when people -[3710.66 --> 3711.00] in your -[3711.00 --> 3711.56] life feel -[3711.56 --> 3712.14] this way -[3712.14 --> 3713.10] to rush -[3713.10 --> 3713.80] through, -[3713.96 --> 3714.38] right, -[3714.48 --> 3714.80] to verse -[3714.80 --> 3715.24] five and -[3715.24 --> 3715.64] six of -[3715.64 --> 3716.04] the psalm. -[3717.52 --> 3718.14] And so -[3718.14 --> 3718.58] we say -[3718.58 --> 3719.34] things like, -[3719.80 --> 3720.42] don't worry, -[3720.56 --> 3720.86] it's going -[3720.86 --> 3721.48] to be okay, -[3721.64 --> 3722.16] God has a -[3722.16 --> 3722.62] plan for -[3722.62 --> 3722.86] you. -[3724.06 --> 3724.44] Sometimes -[3724.44 --> 3725.16] we hear -[3725.16 --> 3725.80] things like, -[3726.20 --> 3726.88] God will -[3726.88 --> 3727.36] use this -[3727.36 --> 3727.90] for good. -[3727.90 --> 3729.70] And this -[3729.70 --> 3730.04] is the -[3730.04 --> 3730.38] sort of -[3730.38 --> 3731.10] parroting -[3731.10 --> 3731.96] of easy -[3731.96 --> 3732.42] Christian -[3732.42 --> 3733.10] answers that -[3733.10 --> 3733.98] really frustrated -[3733.98 --> 3734.62] Anna, -[3734.74 --> 3735.04] that made -[3735.04 --> 3735.44] her so -[3735.44 --> 3735.96] angry in -[3735.96 --> 3736.50] her story. -[3737.40 --> 3738.32] And we -[3738.32 --> 3738.74] can relate -[3738.74 --> 3739.16] to that, -[3739.22 --> 3739.42] right? -[3739.50 --> 3739.94] In your -[3739.94 --> 3740.36] anger, -[3740.54 --> 3740.92] in your -[3740.92 --> 3741.42] heart, -[3741.54 --> 3742.14] you know -[3742.14 --> 3742.64] that those -[3742.64 --> 3743.14] kind of -[3743.14 --> 3743.82] platitudes -[3743.82 --> 3744.56] don't make -[3744.56 --> 3745.02] you feel -[3745.02 --> 3745.36] better. -[3745.70 --> 3746.22] In fact, -[3746.30 --> 3746.70] in my -[3746.70 --> 3747.28] experience -[3747.28 --> 3747.66] anyway, -[3747.92 --> 3748.26] they just -[3748.26 --> 3748.68] make us -[3748.68 --> 3749.36] feel worse. -[3750.38 --> 3750.66] And then -[3750.66 --> 3751.14] we feel -[3751.14 --> 3751.80] guilt and -[3751.80 --> 3752.50] shame, -[3752.78 --> 3753.30] that we -[3753.30 --> 3754.04] feel worse. -[3755.18 --> 3755.56] And then -[3755.56 --> 3756.02] because we -[3756.02 --> 3756.30] have this -[3756.30 --> 3756.84] guilt and shame -[3756.84 --> 3757.14] in us, -[3757.16 --> 3757.40] we just -[3757.40 --> 3757.78] get more -[3757.78 --> 3758.22] angry, -[3758.88 --> 3759.28] either at -[3759.28 --> 3760.16] God or -[3760.16 --> 3760.84] at ourselves, -[3761.06 --> 3761.60] or at the -[3761.60 --> 3762.16] people around -[3762.16 --> 3762.48] us, -[3762.60 --> 3763.28] or nebulously -[3763.28 --> 3763.54] at the -[3763.54 --> 3764.06] situation -[3764.06 --> 3764.68] that's out -[3764.68 --> 3764.90] of our -[3764.90 --> 3765.28] control. -[3767.98 --> 3768.50] Reality -[3768.50 --> 3768.96] is, -[3769.22 --> 3770.38] we can't -[3770.38 --> 3770.88] rush to -[3770.88 --> 3771.40] verse 5 -[3771.40 --> 3771.96] and 6. -[3773.84 --> 3774.66] Because here's -[3774.66 --> 3775.06] the thing -[3775.06 --> 3776.24] about these -[3776.24 --> 3776.82] platitudes. -[3779.12 --> 3779.80] They're not -[3779.80 --> 3780.66] actually wrong. -[3782.40 --> 3782.54] Right? -[3782.64 --> 3782.80] Like, -[3782.80 --> 3783.48] it is true -[3783.48 --> 3783.90] that God -[3783.90 --> 3784.44] does have -[3784.44 --> 3784.82] a plan -[3784.82 --> 3785.36] for you. -[3786.18 --> 3786.46] For I -[3786.46 --> 3786.92] know the -[3786.92 --> 3787.44] plans I -[3787.44 --> 3787.90] have for -[3787.90 --> 3788.06] you, -[3788.18 --> 3788.46] declares -[3788.46 --> 3788.92] the Lord. -[3789.22 --> 3789.50] Jeremiah -[3789.50 --> 3789.96] 29, -[3790.06 --> 3790.32] 11. -[3791.12 --> 3791.24] Right? -[3791.32 --> 3791.54] Many -[3791.54 --> 3793.02] are the -[3793.02 --> 3793.46] things you -[3793.46 --> 3793.98] have planned -[3793.98 --> 3794.42] for us. -[3794.48 --> 3795.12] Psalm 40, -[3795.60 --> 3796.22] verse 5. -[3797.06 --> 3797.74] The plans -[3797.74 --> 3798.04] of the -[3798.04 --> 3798.82] Lord stand -[3798.82 --> 3799.38] forever. -[3799.86 --> 3800.52] Psalm 33, -[3800.74 --> 3801.04] 11. -[3801.88 --> 3802.02] Right? -[3802.04 --> 3802.28] And it -[3802.28 --> 3802.76] is true -[3802.76 --> 3803.22] that God -[3803.22 --> 3804.22] does and -[3804.22 --> 3805.00] will turn -[3805.00 --> 3805.82] all things -[3805.82 --> 3806.38] for the -[3806.38 --> 3806.84] good of -[3806.84 --> 3807.42] those who -[3807.42 --> 3807.78] love him -[3807.78 --> 3809.48] and for -[3809.48 --> 3810.08] his glory. -[3810.68 --> 3810.80] Right? -[3810.86 --> 3811.40] Romans 8, -[3811.40 --> 3811.76] 28. -[3811.90 --> 3812.24] We know -[3812.24 --> 3812.60] that in -[3812.60 --> 3813.06] all things -[3813.06 --> 3813.62] God works -[3813.62 --> 3813.90] for the -[3813.90 --> 3814.22] good of -[3814.22 --> 3814.56] those who -[3814.56 --> 3815.02] love him, -[3815.08 --> 3815.34] who have -[3815.34 --> 3816.08] been called -[3816.08 --> 3816.64] according to -[3816.64 --> 3817.26] his purpose. -[3818.02 --> 3818.82] Or Isaiah -[3818.82 --> 3819.32] 48, -[3819.52 --> 3819.84] 11. -[3820.18 --> 3820.48] For my -[3820.48 --> 3821.12] own sake, -[3821.20 --> 3821.58] for my -[3821.58 --> 3822.20] own sake, -[3822.26 --> 3822.62] I do -[3822.62 --> 3822.88] this. -[3822.96 --> 3823.36] I will -[3823.36 --> 3824.04] not yield -[3824.04 --> 3824.86] my glory -[3824.86 --> 3825.82] to another. -[3827.30 --> 3827.52] Right? -[3827.54 --> 3827.88] That's all -[3827.88 --> 3828.20] true. -[3828.42 --> 3828.88] That's all -[3828.88 --> 3829.26] in the -[3829.26 --> 3829.54] Bible. -[3829.70 --> 3829.92] And so, -[3830.02 --> 3830.30] of course, -[3830.36 --> 3830.94] I believe -[3830.94 --> 3831.28] it and -[3831.28 --> 3831.64] know it -[3831.64 --> 3831.96] to be -[3831.96 --> 3832.28] true. -[3832.86 --> 3833.64] But those -[3833.64 --> 3834.32] truths -[3834.32 --> 3835.44] become -[3835.44 --> 3836.24] platitudes -[3836.24 --> 3837.70] when the -[3837.70 --> 3838.40] person you -[3838.40 --> 3839.08] say them -[3839.08 --> 3840.22] to doesn't -[3840.22 --> 3841.22] feel heard -[3841.22 --> 3842.38] or understood -[3842.38 --> 3843.34] in the -[3843.34 --> 3844.08] context of -[3844.08 --> 3844.46] their own -[3844.46 --> 3844.76] pain. -[3847.12 --> 3847.70] Do I -[3847.70 --> 3847.90] need to -[3847.90 --> 3848.14] say that -[3848.14 --> 3848.36] again? -[3848.42 --> 3848.88] Because that's -[3848.88 --> 3849.26] profound. -[3850.76 --> 3851.28] Those -[3851.28 --> 3851.94] truths of -[3851.94 --> 3852.30] Scripture -[3852.30 --> 3853.00] become -[3853.00 --> 3853.72] platitudes -[3853.72 --> 3854.98] when the -[3854.98 --> 3855.52] person you -[3855.52 --> 3855.90] say them -[3855.90 --> 3856.48] to doesn't -[3856.48 --> 3857.24] feel heard -[3857.24 --> 3858.00] or understood -[3858.00 --> 3859.02] in their -[3859.02 --> 3859.64] own pain. -[3860.64 --> 3861.34] I used to -[3861.34 --> 3861.54] have a -[3861.54 --> 3862.16] professor in -[3862.16 --> 3862.80] seminary who -[3862.80 --> 3863.06] said, -[3863.48 --> 3863.78] the right -[3863.78 --> 3864.26] answer at -[3864.26 --> 3864.60] the wrong -[3864.60 --> 3866.06] time is -[3866.06 --> 3866.38] the wrong -[3866.38 --> 3866.72] answer. -[3866.72 --> 3869.30] right? -[3869.34 --> 3869.60] When you -[3869.60 --> 3870.40] rush a -[3870.40 --> 3870.78] grieving -[3870.78 --> 3871.96] person to -[3871.96 --> 3872.42] the right -[3872.42 --> 3872.94] answer, -[3873.94 --> 3874.58] they become -[3874.58 --> 3874.80] bitter. -[3876.12 --> 3876.78] When you -[3876.78 --> 3877.14] push a -[3877.14 --> 3877.66] truth on -[3877.66 --> 3878.32] someone who -[3878.32 --> 3878.96] is staring -[3878.96 --> 3879.64] into the -[3879.64 --> 3880.14] abyss, -[3881.26 --> 3881.94] the abyss -[3881.94 --> 3882.58] grows, -[3883.12 --> 3883.46] not the -[3883.46 --> 3883.72] truth. -[3885.10 --> 3885.76] When you -[3885.76 --> 3886.20] tell a -[3886.20 --> 3886.58] person who -[3886.58 --> 3887.16] is raging -[3887.16 --> 3887.56] at the -[3887.56 --> 3887.90] apparent -[3887.90 --> 3888.52] absence of -[3888.52 --> 3889.10] God to -[3889.10 --> 3889.48] just get -[3889.48 --> 3890.10] over it, -[3890.84 --> 3891.38] they get -[3891.38 --> 3892.06] more upset -[3892.06 --> 3894.90] or they -[3894.90 --> 3895.42] walk away. -[3895.42 --> 3897.10] either from -[3897.10 --> 3898.46] you or -[3898.46 --> 3898.88] from God. -[3900.98 --> 3901.46] Instead, -[3902.06 --> 3903.10] we can't -[3903.10 --> 3903.66] rush to -[3903.66 --> 3904.30] verse 5 and -[3904.30 --> 3904.62] 6. -[3905.04 --> 3905.20] Now, -[3905.92 --> 3906.24] don't hear -[3906.24 --> 3906.44] what I'm -[3906.44 --> 3906.76] not saying -[3906.76 --> 3907.22] because we -[3907.22 --> 3907.62] will get -[3907.62 --> 3907.92] there. -[3909.28 --> 3910.30] But only -[3910.30 --> 3911.38] after living -[3911.38 --> 3912.02] in the -[3912.02 --> 3912.54] first four -[3912.54 --> 3912.86] verses -[3912.86 --> 3913.38] together. -[3914.52 --> 3915.02] Right? -[3915.08 --> 3915.26] And so -[3915.26 --> 3915.74] hear that -[3915.74 --> 3916.10] as a -[3916.10 --> 3916.38] metaphor. -[3916.78 --> 3917.46] Only after -[3917.46 --> 3918.52] living into -[3918.52 --> 3919.28] the pain -[3919.28 --> 3919.82] and the -[3919.82 --> 3920.22] hardship -[3920.22 --> 3920.92] and the -[3920.92 --> 3921.46] struggle -[3921.46 --> 3922.18] together -[3922.18 --> 3923.36] can we -[3923.36 --> 3923.58] get to -[3923.58 --> 3923.92] the hope. -[3924.62 --> 3925.00] Let's -[3925.00 --> 3925.90] understand -[3925.90 --> 3926.54] the anger -[3926.54 --> 3926.94] and the -[3926.94 --> 3927.62] crying out -[3927.62 --> 3928.28] and only -[3928.28 --> 3929.24] then will -[3929.24 --> 3929.70] we have -[3929.70 --> 3930.16] the right -[3930.16 --> 3930.70] words to -[3930.70 --> 3931.76] speak into -[3931.76 --> 3932.18] someone's -[3932.18 --> 3932.46] heart. -[3933.82 --> 3934.66] How long? -[3935.32 --> 3935.80] Ad -[3935.80 --> 3936.38] anah. -[3936.90 --> 3938.02] How long -[3938.02 --> 3938.56] will you -[3938.56 --> 3939.28] hide your -[3939.28 --> 3940.44] face from -[3940.44 --> 3940.68] me? -[3942.80 --> 3943.68] So there's -[3943.68 --> 3944.22] layers of -[3944.22 --> 3945.32] meaning to -[3945.32 --> 3946.02] that phrase. -[3947.02 --> 3947.90] Hide your -[3947.90 --> 3948.82] face from -[3948.82 --> 3950.26] me is more -[3950.26 --> 3950.86] than just an -[3950.86 --> 3952.18] experience of -[3952.18 --> 3953.18] God not -[3953.18 --> 3953.84] helping when -[3953.84 --> 3954.24] we want -[3954.24 --> 3954.26] we want -[3954.26 --> 3954.66] him to. -[3955.40 --> 3956.06] Hide your -[3956.06 --> 3956.98] face from -[3956.98 --> 3958.10] me recalls -[3958.10 --> 3958.54] God's -[3958.54 --> 3959.74] blessing to -[3959.74 --> 3960.38] the people -[3960.38 --> 3961.12] in number -[3961.12 --> 3961.62] six. -[3961.98 --> 3962.36] Maybe you -[3962.36 --> 3962.94] remember that. -[3963.04 --> 3963.60] It's called -[3963.60 --> 3964.14] the priestly -[3964.14 --> 3964.70] blessing. -[3964.88 --> 3965.56] God says to -[3965.56 --> 3966.18] Moses and -[3966.18 --> 3966.44] Aaron, -[3967.02 --> 3967.70] this is how -[3967.70 --> 3968.08] you will -[3968.08 --> 3968.52] bless the -[3968.52 --> 3968.76] people. -[3968.86 --> 3969.44] This is how -[3969.44 --> 3970.10] they will -[3970.10 --> 3970.64] know that -[3970.64 --> 3970.94] they are -[3970.94 --> 3971.26] mine. -[3971.36 --> 3971.78] This is how -[3971.78 --> 3972.16] I will -[3972.16 --> 3972.72] write my -[3972.72 --> 3973.32] name on -[3973.32 --> 3973.52] them. -[3973.54 --> 3973.72] And he -[3973.72 --> 3974.14] says the -[3974.14 --> 3974.76] Lord bless -[3974.76 --> 3975.74] you and -[3975.74 --> 3976.44] keep you. -[3976.78 --> 3977.02] The Lord -[3977.02 --> 3977.56] make his -[3977.56 --> 3978.52] face shine -[3978.52 --> 3979.68] upon you and -[3979.68 --> 3980.26] be gracious -[3980.26 --> 3980.74] to you. -[3980.82 --> 3981.22] The Lord -[3981.22 --> 3982.00] turn his -[3982.00 --> 3982.90] face toward -[3982.90 --> 3983.80] you and -[3983.80 --> 3984.42] give you -[3984.42 --> 3986.16] his peace. -[3987.90 --> 3988.68] The Lord -[3988.68 --> 3989.10] make his -[3989.10 --> 3989.76] face shine -[3989.76 --> 3990.50] upon you and -[3990.50 --> 3990.76] the Lord -[3990.76 --> 3991.42] turn his -[3991.42 --> 3992.04] face toward -[3992.04 --> 3992.42] you. -[3992.76 --> 3993.64] The psalmist -[3993.64 --> 3994.48] no longer -[3994.48 --> 3996.00] understands and -[3996.00 --> 3996.92] sees God's -[3996.92 --> 3997.56] face as -[3997.56 --> 3998.72] turned towards -[3998.72 --> 3998.98] him. -[3999.22 --> 3999.94] He no longer -[3999.94 --> 4001.00] feels God's -[4001.00 --> 4002.16] face shining -[4002.16 --> 4002.90] upon him and -[4002.90 --> 4003.58] so he doesn't -[4003.58 --> 4004.08] have any -[4004.08 --> 4005.16] grace and -[4005.16 --> 4005.66] he has no -[4005.66 --> 4006.54] experience of -[4006.54 --> 4007.10] peace. -[4009.26 --> 4010.08] The turning -[4010.08 --> 4010.88] of God's -[4010.88 --> 4011.74] face is his -[4011.74 --> 4013.46] presence and -[4013.46 --> 4014.24] his presence -[4014.24 --> 4014.94] is supposed -[4014.94 --> 4015.70] to bring -[4015.70 --> 4016.68] grace and -[4016.68 --> 4017.24] peace and -[4017.24 --> 4018.04] right now -[4018.04 --> 4019.52] David knows -[4019.52 --> 4020.34] neither. -[4021.90 --> 4022.70] God promised -[4022.70 --> 4024.80] presence and -[4024.80 --> 4025.70] it feels like -[4025.70 --> 4026.16] God has -[4026.16 --> 4026.98] failed that -[4026.98 --> 4027.54] promise. -[4029.84 --> 4030.38] And out of -[4030.38 --> 4031.14] that failed -[4031.14 --> 4032.44] experience of -[4032.44 --> 4033.20] God's promise -[4033.20 --> 4034.22] David literally -[4034.22 --> 4034.92] cries out -[4034.92 --> 4036.22] how long -[4036.22 --> 4036.92] must I -[4036.92 --> 4038.12] wrestle with -[4038.12 --> 4038.80] my thoughts? -[4040.18 --> 4040.64] Now literally -[4040.64 --> 4041.32] it says there -[4041.32 --> 4042.34] how long -[4042.34 --> 4042.68] must I -[4042.68 --> 4044.16] counsel with -[4044.16 --> 4045.04] my soul? -[4045.90 --> 4046.52] Counsel with -[4046.52 --> 4047.02] my inner -[4047.02 --> 4047.52] being? -[4048.58 --> 4049.10] Do you know -[4049.10 --> 4049.74] what that is -[4049.74 --> 4049.98] like? -[4050.04 --> 4050.26] Do you ever -[4050.26 --> 4050.74] have that? -[4050.86 --> 4051.74] Where you're -[4051.74 --> 4052.80] stuck kind of -[4052.80 --> 4053.46] in your mind -[4053.46 --> 4054.08] space just -[4054.08 --> 4054.84] going back and -[4054.84 --> 4055.28] forth and -[4055.28 --> 4055.80] back and -[4055.80 --> 4056.42] forth and -[4056.42 --> 4057.28] this idea is -[4057.28 --> 4058.06] bouncing around -[4058.06 --> 4058.64] all over the -[4058.64 --> 4059.06] place and you -[4059.06 --> 4059.58] can't get a -[4059.58 --> 4060.14] handle on it and -[4060.14 --> 4060.58] when you think -[4060.58 --> 4061.18] you've grasped -[4061.18 --> 4062.02] it you look at -[4062.02 --> 4062.34] it and there's -[4062.34 --> 4062.94] nothing there and -[4062.94 --> 4064.00] it pops up over -[4064.00 --> 4065.02] here and there's -[4065.02 --> 4065.66] just this -[4065.66 --> 4069.40] angst or -[4069.40 --> 4070.20] anxiety -[4070.20 --> 4072.42] this hurt -[4072.42 --> 4074.60] and brokenness -[4074.60 --> 4076.40] and then -[4076.40 --> 4078.12] that begins to -[4078.12 --> 4079.12] show itself -[4079.12 --> 4080.68] in you -[4080.68 --> 4080.94] right? -[4080.98 --> 4081.46] Whenever we have -[4081.46 --> 4082.14] these internal -[4082.14 --> 4082.98] emotions they -[4082.98 --> 4083.78] have a tendency -[4083.78 --> 4084.50] to manifest -[4084.50 --> 4085.18] themselves -[4085.18 --> 4086.12] physiologically -[4086.12 --> 4086.66] and I'm not -[4086.66 --> 4087.06] just talking -[4087.06 --> 4087.74] about crying -[4087.74 --> 4089.10] right? -[4089.20 --> 4089.98] So for me -[4089.98 --> 4091.14] when I get -[4091.14 --> 4092.76] anxious I -[4092.76 --> 4093.32] start to feel -[4093.32 --> 4093.72] that in my -[4093.72 --> 4095.18] hands like -[4095.18 --> 4095.76] my hands -[4095.76 --> 4097.04] feel cold -[4097.04 --> 4097.78] and tingly -[4097.78 --> 4098.62] and that's -[4098.62 --> 4099.20] a cue for -[4099.20 --> 4099.52] me that -[4099.52 --> 4100.14] there's some -[4100.14 --> 4100.80] anxiety going -[4100.80 --> 4101.20] on here -[4101.20 --> 4102.40] and I have -[4102.40 --> 4102.80] to learn how -[4102.80 --> 4103.60] to get aware -[4103.60 --> 4104.06] of that -[4104.06 --> 4104.34] right? -[4104.46 --> 4105.06] And how to -[4105.06 --> 4105.84] take that -[4105.84 --> 4106.52] and to use -[4106.52 --> 4106.96] that but then -[4106.96 --> 4107.46] when that -[4107.46 --> 4108.42] anxiety grows -[4108.42 --> 4109.44] and turns -[4109.44 --> 4110.28] into anger -[4110.28 --> 4111.06] and I start -[4111.06 --> 4111.62] to feel that -[4111.62 --> 4112.40] in my chest -[4112.40 --> 4114.08] right? -[4114.16 --> 4114.38] And then when -[4114.38 --> 4115.04] I get really -[4115.04 --> 4115.76] angry it comes -[4115.76 --> 4116.20] up to my -[4116.20 --> 4117.32] neck and it -[4117.32 --> 4118.66] sits here in -[4118.66 --> 4119.40] my neck and -[4119.40 --> 4120.32] it's tight and -[4120.32 --> 4120.86] there's nothing -[4120.86 --> 4121.58] I can do about -[4121.58 --> 4122.20] it and that's -[4122.20 --> 4122.78] just the way it -[4122.78 --> 4123.28] is and -[4123.28 --> 4124.00] here I am -[4124.00 --> 4126.04] and that's -[4126.04 --> 4126.58] what's happening -[4126.58 --> 4128.36] in Psalm 13. -[4129.72 --> 4130.50] He's holding -[4130.50 --> 4131.00] his anger -[4131.00 --> 4131.60] tight -[4131.60 --> 4134.62] and again -[4134.62 --> 4136.78] not just -[4136.78 --> 4137.44] for a short -[4137.44 --> 4138.44] passing -[4138.44 --> 4139.60] moment -[4139.60 --> 4140.60] right? -[4140.74 --> 4141.16] Day -[4141.16 --> 4142.66] after day -[4142.66 --> 4144.10] I have sorrow -[4144.10 --> 4145.44] in my heart -[4145.44 --> 4146.94] and this is -[4146.94 --> 4147.48] long -[4147.48 --> 4148.84] and ongoing -[4148.84 --> 4150.52] and then -[4150.52 --> 4150.90] building -[4150.90 --> 4151.60] through the -[4151.60 --> 4151.98] Psalm -[4151.98 --> 4152.50] right? -[4152.50 --> 4152.84] in these -[4152.84 --> 4153.78] short verses -[4153.78 --> 4154.74] by verse -[4154.74 --> 4155.12] 3 -[4155.12 --> 4155.96] either -[4155.96 --> 4157.62] he's shouting -[4157.62 --> 4158.50] and shaking -[4158.50 --> 4159.02] his fist -[4159.02 --> 4159.52] at the heavens -[4159.52 --> 4160.54] look on me -[4160.54 --> 4161.22] and answer -[4161.22 --> 4161.96] oh God -[4161.96 --> 4163.76] or -[4163.76 --> 4165.50] maybe he's -[4165.50 --> 4165.86] broken -[4165.86 --> 4167.22] and he's -[4167.22 --> 4167.80] weeping -[4167.80 --> 4168.70] and he's -[4168.70 --> 4169.08] hiding -[4169.08 --> 4170.18] in the corner -[4170.18 --> 4170.58] and he's -[4170.58 --> 4171.04] saying give -[4171.04 --> 4171.78] light to my -[4171.78 --> 4172.32] eyes -[4172.32 --> 4173.18] or I will -[4173.18 --> 4173.66] sleep -[4173.66 --> 4174.90] in death -[4174.90 --> 4177.36] either way -[4177.36 --> 4177.98] he has -[4177.98 --> 4178.72] come to -[4178.72 --> 4179.56] the fullest -[4179.56 --> 4180.70] expression -[4180.70 --> 4182.02] of his -[4182.02 --> 4182.68] feeling -[4182.68 --> 4186.12] and then again -[4186.12 --> 4187.98] in that verse -[4187.98 --> 4188.36] there -[4188.36 --> 4188.80] in verse -[4188.80 --> 4189.74] 3 -[4189.74 --> 4190.40] says -[4190.40 --> 4191.16] make my -[4191.16 --> 4191.56] eyes -[4191.56 --> 4192.24] shine -[4192.24 --> 4193.08] lest I -[4193.08 --> 4193.50] sleep -[4193.50 --> 4194.18] in death -[4194.18 --> 4195.76] right? -[4195.76 --> 4196.16] it's the -[4196.16 --> 4196.92] same word -[4196.92 --> 4197.40] from the -[4197.40 --> 4197.86] priestly -[4197.86 --> 4198.64] blessing -[4198.64 --> 4199.04] that we've -[4199.04 --> 4199.24] already -[4199.24 --> 4199.70] seen -[4199.70 --> 4200.44] right? -[4200.56 --> 4200.84] may the -[4200.84 --> 4201.04] Lord -[4201.04 --> 4201.52] make his -[4201.52 --> 4201.88] face -[4201.88 --> 4202.64] shine -[4202.64 --> 4203.54] upon you -[4203.54 --> 4203.82] David -[4203.82 --> 4204.38] is saying -[4204.38 --> 4205.22] look on me -[4205.22 --> 4205.72] and answer -[4205.72 --> 4206.24] turn your -[4206.24 --> 4206.90] face towards -[4206.90 --> 4207.06] me -[4207.06 --> 4207.42] that I -[4207.42 --> 4208.28] may again -[4208.28 --> 4209.22] reflect the -[4209.22 --> 4209.82] shine -[4209.82 --> 4210.72] of your -[4210.72 --> 4211.18] presence -[4211.18 --> 4211.64] that I -[4211.64 --> 4212.10] may again -[4212.10 --> 4212.82] reflect the -[4212.82 --> 4213.28] shine -[4213.28 --> 4213.92] of your -[4213.92 --> 4214.28] glory -[4214.28 --> 4214.70] and your -[4214.70 --> 4214.98] peace -[4214.98 --> 4215.66] and if -[4215.66 --> 4216.06] you do -[4216.06 --> 4216.66] not -[4216.66 --> 4218.10] I -[4218.10 --> 4218.84] will -[4218.84 --> 4219.84] die -[4219.84 --> 4224.82] and so -[4224.82 --> 4225.34] now -[4225.34 --> 4228.18] now -[4228.18 --> 4228.60] we're at -[4228.60 --> 4229.22] the place -[4229.22 --> 4230.96] where we've -[4230.96 --> 4231.30] held -[4231.30 --> 4232.38] that emotion -[4232.38 --> 4233.64] we've held -[4233.64 --> 4234.20] that anger -[4234.20 --> 4234.64] and we've -[4234.64 --> 4235.22] looked at -[4235.22 --> 4235.44] it -[4235.44 --> 4236.08] and we've -[4236.08 --> 4236.84] looked at -[4236.84 --> 4237.18] it from -[4237.18 --> 4238.14] various sides -[4238.14 --> 4238.72] and facets -[4238.72 --> 4239.24] we've -[4239.24 --> 4239.80] entered -[4239.80 --> 4240.66] into it -[4240.66 --> 4241.08] with the -[4241.08 --> 4241.60] psalmist -[4241.60 --> 4241.98] right? -[4242.08 --> 4242.80] and seeing -[4242.80 --> 4243.84] our anger -[4243.84 --> 4244.68] more clearly -[4244.68 --> 4245.76] allows us -[4245.76 --> 4246.24] to begin -[4246.24 --> 4246.96] to see -[4246.96 --> 4247.68] what it -[4247.68 --> 4248.46] truly is -[4248.46 --> 4250.18] and I -[4250.18 --> 4251.22] I'll share -[4251.22 --> 4251.74] this one -[4251.74 --> 4252.24] with you -[4252.24 --> 4253.16] I love -[4253.16 --> 4253.54] the way -[4253.54 --> 4254.10] that Allender -[4254.10 --> 4254.68] and Longman -[4254.68 --> 4255.90] in their -[4255.90 --> 4256.14] book -[4256.14 --> 4256.48] The Cry -[4256.48 --> 4256.98] of the Soul -[4256.98 --> 4257.80] they summarize -[4257.80 --> 4258.14] it -[4258.14 --> 4258.60] they say -[4258.60 --> 4260.50] the core -[4260.50 --> 4261.44] of unrighteous -[4261.44 --> 4261.90] anger -[4261.90 --> 4262.68] is a -[4262.68 --> 4263.08] hatred -[4263.08 --> 4264.10] of vulnerability -[4264.10 --> 4265.54] and a -[4265.54 --> 4265.98] love -[4265.98 --> 4266.86] of control -[4266.86 --> 4269.42] so as -[4269.42 --> 4269.82] you look -[4269.82 --> 4270.14] at your -[4270.14 --> 4270.90] own life -[4270.90 --> 4271.36] here -[4271.36 --> 4272.32] in this -[4272.32 --> 4272.68] moment -[4272.68 --> 4273.78] or maybe -[4273.78 --> 4274.36] this is a -[4274.36 --> 4274.64] point of -[4274.64 --> 4275.10] application -[4275.10 --> 4275.48] for you -[4275.48 --> 4275.90] to take -[4275.90 --> 4276.50] throughout -[4276.50 --> 4276.94] the week -[4276.94 --> 4277.70] as you -[4277.70 --> 4278.04] look at -[4278.04 --> 4278.36] your own -[4278.36 --> 4278.56] life -[4278.56 --> 4279.18] where does -[4279.18 --> 4279.90] your anger -[4279.90 --> 4281.06] come from? -[4282.00 --> 4282.30] does your -[4282.30 --> 4283.30] anger show up -[4283.30 --> 4284.12] when you realize -[4284.12 --> 4284.64] your own -[4284.64 --> 4285.06] weakness -[4285.06 --> 4285.66] or your own -[4285.66 --> 4286.10] inability? -[4286.68 --> 4287.16] does anger -[4287.16 --> 4287.70] show up -[4287.70 --> 4288.08] when you are -[4288.08 --> 4288.78] bumping up -[4288.78 --> 4289.30] against the -[4289.30 --> 4289.62] limits -[4289.62 --> 4290.26] of your -[4290.26 --> 4291.20] control -[4291.20 --> 4291.72] or the -[4291.72 --> 4292.66] area over -[4292.66 --> 4293.12] which you -[4293.12 --> 4294.12] have exercised -[4294.12 --> 4294.66] control? -[4295.74 --> 4295.90] right? -[4295.92 --> 4296.72] when you realize -[4296.72 --> 4297.08] that you are -[4297.08 --> 4297.82] powerless to -[4297.82 --> 4298.22] change a -[4298.22 --> 4298.74] situation -[4298.74 --> 4299.94] or let's -[4299.94 --> 4300.72] get practical -[4300.72 --> 4301.16] when you are -[4301.16 --> 4301.88] powerless to -[4301.88 --> 4302.38] change your -[4302.38 --> 4302.78] spouse -[4302.78 --> 4303.32] or you are -[4303.32 --> 4304.04] powerless to -[4304.04 --> 4304.50] change your -[4304.50 --> 4304.88] kids -[4304.88 --> 4305.58] or when you -[4305.58 --> 4306.08] figure out -[4306.08 --> 4306.44] that you are -[4306.44 --> 4307.10] powerless to -[4307.10 --> 4307.48] change your -[4307.48 --> 4308.14] boss -[4308.14 --> 4308.88] right? -[4309.04 --> 4309.68] is that when -[4309.68 --> 4310.32] you get angry? -[4311.94 --> 4312.74] or let's -[4312.74 --> 4313.60] put a finer -[4313.60 --> 4314.28] point on it -[4314.28 --> 4316.52] are you angry -[4316.52 --> 4317.14] at God -[4317.14 --> 4317.82] who is in -[4317.82 --> 4318.32] control -[4318.32 --> 4319.58] or are you -[4319.58 --> 4320.50] really angry -[4320.50 --> 4321.36] that you are -[4321.36 --> 4321.70] not? -[4327.12 --> 4327.70] and so -[4327.70 --> 4328.40] having entered -[4328.40 --> 4330.52] into the -[4330.52 --> 4331.02] anger -[4331.02 --> 4332.64] to the point -[4332.64 --> 4333.26] of death -[4333.26 --> 4335.90] right? -[4335.90 --> 4336.54] having entered -[4336.54 --> 4337.42] into what -[4337.42 --> 4338.08] seems like -[4338.08 --> 4338.64] the victory -[4338.64 --> 4339.14] of his -[4339.14 --> 4339.44] enemy -[4339.44 --> 4340.10] having walked -[4340.10 --> 4340.54] the road -[4340.54 --> 4340.84] together -[4340.84 --> 4341.52] having heard -[4341.52 --> 4342.62] and understood -[4342.62 --> 4343.58] his pain -[4343.58 --> 4344.48] now -[4344.48 --> 4346.64] now we -[4346.64 --> 4346.98] can -[4346.98 --> 4348.20] speak -[4348.20 --> 4348.74] verse 5 -[4348.74 --> 4349.22] and 6 -[4349.22 --> 4350.88] right? -[4350.96 --> 4351.46] now we -[4351.46 --> 4352.06] can say -[4352.06 --> 4353.20] but I -[4353.20 --> 4353.58] trust in -[4353.58 --> 4354.14] your unfailing -[4354.14 --> 4354.60] love -[4354.60 --> 4355.10] my heart -[4355.10 --> 4355.78] rejoices in -[4355.78 --> 4356.42] your salvation -[4356.42 --> 4357.54] or to put it -[4357.54 --> 4358.00] another way -[4358.00 --> 4359.94] it's not -[4359.94 --> 4360.84] good news -[4360.84 --> 4362.00] if you skip -[4362.00 --> 4362.40] over the -[4362.40 --> 4362.78] cross -[4362.78 --> 4366.28] but I -[4366.28 --> 4366.88] trust -[4366.88 --> 4368.20] in your -[4368.20 --> 4368.80] unfailing -[4368.80 --> 4369.24] love -[4369.24 --> 4372.32] now there -[4372.32 --> 4372.84] are times -[4372.84 --> 4373.22] when we -[4373.22 --> 4373.64] hear this -[4373.64 --> 4374.06] verse -[4374.06 --> 4375.74] and I -[4375.74 --> 4376.12] think that -[4376.12 --> 4376.60] it remains -[4376.60 --> 4377.44] difficult for -[4377.44 --> 4378.02] our hearing -[4378.02 --> 4378.74] because we -[4378.74 --> 4379.14] think of -[4379.14 --> 4379.70] trust -[4379.70 --> 4380.96] as another -[4380.96 --> 4381.56] emotion -[4381.56 --> 4383.24] right? -[4383.24 --> 4383.94] if anger -[4383.94 --> 4384.64] is usually -[4384.64 --> 4385.24] a negative -[4385.24 --> 4385.84] emotion -[4385.84 --> 4386.58] we think -[4386.58 --> 4387.00] of trust -[4387.00 --> 4387.46] as a good -[4387.46 --> 4387.84] emotion -[4387.84 --> 4388.14] and so -[4388.14 --> 4388.50] instead of -[4388.50 --> 4388.90] this negative -[4388.90 --> 4389.34] emotion -[4389.34 --> 4390.08] have this -[4390.08 --> 4390.52] positive -[4390.52 --> 4390.88] one -[4390.88 --> 4391.46] in its -[4391.46 --> 4391.84] place -[4391.84 --> 4392.52] and while -[4392.52 --> 4392.94] there are -[4392.94 --> 4393.56] emotional -[4393.56 --> 4394.22] or emotive -[4394.22 --> 4394.62] aspects -[4394.62 --> 4395.26] to our -[4395.26 --> 4395.68] trust -[4395.68 --> 4396.10] and to -[4396.10 --> 4396.36] our -[4396.36 --> 4397.02] faith -[4397.02 --> 4397.44] that's -[4397.44 --> 4397.76] not -[4397.76 --> 4398.02] what -[4398.02 --> 4398.30] this -[4398.30 --> 4398.56] is -[4398.56 --> 4398.98] about -[4398.98 --> 4400.28] right? -[4400.30 --> 4400.64] the word -[4400.64 --> 4401.26] trust -[4401.26 --> 4402.22] is used -[4402.22 --> 4402.66] in this -[4402.66 --> 4403.04] text -[4403.04 --> 4403.46] in the -[4403.46 --> 4404.38] perfect -[4404.38 --> 4404.98] tense -[4404.98 --> 4405.22] now -[4405.22 --> 4406.18] again -[4406.18 --> 4406.42] we're -[4406.42 --> 4406.64] dealing -[4406.64 --> 4407.10] with grammar -[4407.10 --> 4407.42] and so -[4407.42 --> 4407.62] I don't -[4407.62 --> 4408.04] expect you -[4408.04 --> 4408.34] to know -[4408.34 --> 4408.64] what that -[4408.64 --> 4408.88] means -[4408.88 --> 4409.08] but -[4409.08 --> 4409.86] in Hebrew -[4409.86 --> 4410.20] grammar -[4410.20 --> 4410.74] the perfect -[4410.74 --> 4411.08] tense -[4411.08 --> 4411.82] is used -[4411.82 --> 4412.84] to describe -[4412.84 --> 4413.56] an action -[4413.56 --> 4414.20] that is -[4414.20 --> 4415.10] settled -[4415.10 --> 4415.94] in the -[4415.94 --> 4416.40] past -[4416.40 --> 4417.26] that is -[4417.26 --> 4417.88] done -[4417.88 --> 4418.88] and accomplished -[4418.88 --> 4419.40] and then -[4419.40 --> 4419.76] has -[4419.76 --> 4420.58] ongoing -[4420.58 --> 4421.12] effects -[4421.12 --> 4421.58] into -[4421.58 --> 4422.20] the -[4422.20 --> 4422.58] present -[4422.58 --> 4424.04] and so -[4424.04 --> 4424.38] what that -[4424.38 --> 4424.58] means -[4424.58 --> 4424.92] is the -[4424.92 --> 4425.36] trust -[4425.36 --> 4425.76] here -[4425.76 --> 4426.38] is a -[4426.38 --> 4426.90] decision -[4426.90 --> 4427.66] that was -[4427.66 --> 4428.06] made -[4428.06 --> 4428.48] in the -[4428.48 --> 4429.00] past -[4429.00 --> 4430.00] that now -[4430.00 --> 4430.84] defines -[4430.84 --> 4431.36] your -[4431.36 --> 4431.78] current -[4431.78 --> 4432.48] reality -[4432.48 --> 4434.72] right? -[4434.82 --> 4435.18] David is -[4435.18 --> 4435.46] saying -[4435.46 --> 4436.18] I trusted -[4436.18 --> 4436.44] you -[4436.44 --> 4437.08] I believe -[4437.08 --> 4437.52] you -[4437.52 --> 4438.36] I know -[4438.36 --> 4438.68] you -[4438.68 --> 4439.06] and I -[4439.06 --> 4439.26] am -[4439.26 --> 4439.60] known -[4439.60 --> 4439.90] by -[4439.90 --> 4440.18] you -[4440.18 --> 4440.74] he's -[4440.74 --> 4441.38] relying -[4441.38 --> 4441.92] on a -[4441.92 --> 4442.38] profession -[4442.38 --> 4442.70] of -[4442.70 --> 4443.02] faith -[4443.02 --> 4443.60] made -[4443.60 --> 4443.78] in -[4443.78 --> 4443.92] the -[4443.92 --> 4444.32] past -[4444.32 --> 4444.58] that -[4444.58 --> 4445.24] defines -[4445.24 --> 4446.18] reality -[4446.18 --> 4447.22] for the -[4447.22 --> 4447.60] present -[4447.60 --> 4449.06] and so -[4449.06 --> 4449.24] there's -[4449.24 --> 4449.60] a really -[4449.60 --> 4449.86] good -[4449.86 --> 4450.38] example -[4450.38 --> 4451.04] for those -[4451.04 --> 4451.30] of us -[4451.30 --> 4451.60] in -[4451.60 --> 4452.68] Christian -[4452.68 --> 4453.06] faith -[4453.06 --> 4453.32] right? -[4453.76 --> 4454.32] the idea -[4454.32 --> 4454.52] of -[4454.52 --> 4455.22] conversion -[4455.22 --> 4456.10] is the -[4456.10 --> 4456.50] example -[4456.50 --> 4456.80] here -[4456.80 --> 4457.58] conversion -[4457.58 --> 4457.90] in the -[4457.90 --> 4458.10] life -[4458.10 --> 4458.34] of the -[4458.34 --> 4458.62] believer -[4458.62 --> 4459.00] is a -[4459.00 --> 4459.12] good -[4459.12 --> 4459.42] example -[4459.42 --> 4459.66] of what -[4459.66 --> 4459.76] we're -[4459.76 --> 4460.10] talking -[4460.10 --> 4460.42] about -[4460.42 --> 4460.82] or -[4460.82 --> 4461.38] accepting -[4461.38 --> 4461.66] the -[4461.66 --> 4462.04] truths -[4462.04 --> 4462.52] of -[4462.52 --> 4462.78] faith -[4462.78 --> 4463.28] making -[4463.28 --> 4463.58] a -[4463.58 --> 4464.12] profession -[4464.12 --> 4464.54] of -[4464.54 --> 4465.00] faith -[4465.00 --> 4465.48] that's -[4465.48 --> 4465.64] maybe -[4465.64 --> 4466.04] language -[4466.04 --> 4466.32] you're -[4466.32 --> 4466.62] more -[4466.62 --> 4466.96] familiar -[4466.96 --> 4467.20] with -[4467.20 --> 4467.42] is what -[4467.42 --> 4467.52] we're -[4467.52 --> 4467.84] talking -[4467.84 --> 4468.10] about -[4468.10 --> 4468.34] here -[4468.34 --> 4468.78] right? -[4468.84 --> 4468.92] that -[4468.92 --> 4469.48] profession -[4469.48 --> 4469.74] of -[4469.74 --> 4469.98] faith -[4469.98 --> 4470.30] moment -[4470.30 --> 4470.70] is a -[4470.70 --> 4471.26] reality -[4471.26 --> 4472.12] defining -[4472.12 --> 4473.04] moment -[4473.04 --> 4473.70] your -[4473.70 --> 4474.44] experience -[4474.44 --> 4474.74] of -[4474.74 --> 4475.12] faith -[4475.12 --> 4475.54] at -[4475.54 --> 4475.80] some -[4475.80 --> 4476.14] point -[4476.14 --> 4476.38] in -[4476.38 --> 4476.56] the -[4476.56 --> 4477.04] future -[4477.04 --> 4478.20] right? -[4478.64 --> 4479.18] at some -[4479.18 --> 4479.52] moment -[4479.52 --> 4479.74] will -[4479.74 --> 4480.20] probably -[4480.20 --> 4480.64] wane -[4480.64 --> 4481.52] you -[4481.52 --> 4481.76] will -[4481.76 --> 4482.04] have -[4482.04 --> 4482.54] doubts -[4482.54 --> 4483.94] but -[4483.94 --> 4484.14] your -[4484.14 --> 4484.68] doubts -[4484.68 --> 4485.20] don't -[4485.20 --> 4485.74] change -[4485.74 --> 4485.98] the -[4485.98 --> 4486.78] reality -[4486.78 --> 4487.72] that -[4487.72 --> 4487.90] when -[4487.90 --> 4488.06] you -[4488.06 --> 4488.30] make -[4488.30 --> 4488.50] that -[4488.50 --> 4488.94] profession -[4488.94 --> 4489.16] when -[4489.16 --> 4489.28] you -[4489.28 --> 4489.86] experience -[4489.86 --> 4490.22] conversion -[4490.22 --> 4490.44] you -[4490.44 --> 4490.68] are -[4490.68 --> 4490.88] a -[4490.88 --> 4491.34] called -[4491.34 --> 4492.22] justified -[4492.22 --> 4493.00] son -[4493.00 --> 4493.48] and -[4493.48 --> 4493.94] daughter -[4493.94 --> 4494.48] of -[4494.48 --> 4494.96] God -[4494.96 --> 4497.18] right? -[4497.22 --> 4497.32] the -[4497.32 --> 4497.72] one -[4497.72 --> 4498.08] whom -[4498.08 --> 4498.28] you -[4498.28 --> 4498.58] have -[4498.58 --> 4499.40] professed -[4499.40 --> 4499.60] to -[4499.60 --> 4500.00] believe -[4500.00 --> 4500.40] and -[4500.40 --> 4500.58] to -[4500.58 --> 4500.98] trust -[4500.98 --> 4501.46] and -[4501.46 --> 4501.64] that -[4501.64 --> 4502.28] changes -[4502.28 --> 4503.00] the -[4503.00 --> 4503.58] entire -[4503.58 --> 4504.12] world -[4504.12 --> 4504.64] for -[4504.64 --> 4504.98] you -[4504.98 --> 4507.94] one of -[4507.94 --> 4508.08] my -[4508.08 --> 4508.36] favorite -[4508.36 --> 4508.64] verses -[4508.64 --> 4508.98] in all -[4508.98 --> 4509.12] of -[4509.12 --> 4509.42] scripture -[4509.42 --> 4510.06] 2 -[4510.06 --> 4510.40] Timothy -[4510.40 --> 4510.70] 2 -[4510.70 --> 4511.18] 13 -[4511.18 --> 4512.48] if we -[4512.48 --> 4512.76] are -[4512.76 --> 4513.48] faithless -[4513.48 --> 4513.82] he -[4513.82 --> 4514.30] remains -[4514.30 --> 4514.78] faithful -[4514.78 --> 4515.14] for -[4515.14 --> 4515.40] he -[4515.40 --> 4515.90] cannot -[4515.90 --> 4516.50] disown -[4516.50 --> 4517.46] himself -[4517.46 --> 4519.36] that's -[4519.36 --> 4519.56] the -[4519.56 --> 4519.98] basis -[4519.98 --> 4521.20] of -[4521.20 --> 4521.50] our -[4521.50 --> 4522.08] trust -[4522.08 --> 4523.04] that -[4523.04 --> 4523.66] he -[4523.66 --> 4524.56] remains -[4524.56 --> 4525.38] faithful -[4525.38 --> 4527.50] but -[4527.50 --> 4527.64] I -[4527.64 --> 4528.12] trust -[4528.12 --> 4528.48] in -[4528.48 --> 4528.78] your -[4528.78 --> 4529.64] unfailing -[4529.64 --> 4530.38] love -[4530.38 --> 4530.64] my -[4530.64 --> 4531.06] heart -[4531.06 --> 4531.88] rejoices -[4531.88 --> 4532.70] in -[4532.70 --> 4532.90] your -[4532.90 --> 4533.44] salvation -[4533.44 --> 4535.34] I -[4535.34 --> 4535.48] think -[4535.48 --> 4535.62] a -[4535.62 --> 4535.78] better -[4535.78 --> 4535.94] way -[4535.94 --> 4536.10] to -[4536.10 --> 4536.54] translate -[4536.54 --> 4537.04] that -[4537.04 --> 4537.40] second -[4537.40 --> 4537.78] half -[4537.78 --> 4537.88] of -[4537.88 --> 4538.04] that -[4538.04 --> 4538.32] line -[4538.32 --> 4538.54] there -[4538.54 --> 4539.44] is -[4539.44 --> 4539.98] may -[4539.98 --> 4540.34] my -[4540.34 --> 4540.66] heart -[4540.66 --> 4541.24] rejoice -[4541.24 --> 4541.84] in -[4541.84 --> 4542.04] your -[4542.04 --> 4542.56] salvation -[4542.56 --> 4543.34] and -[4543.34 --> 4543.56] again -[4543.56 --> 4544.00] grammar -[4544.00 --> 4544.60] matters -[4544.60 --> 4545.00] the -[4545.00 --> 4545.26] tense -[4545.26 --> 4545.46] here -[4545.46 --> 4545.66] is -[4545.66 --> 4546.28] josev -[4546.28 --> 4546.48] which -[4546.48 --> 4546.70] means -[4546.70 --> 4546.84] it's -[4546.84 --> 4546.98] an -[4546.98 --> 4547.38] indirect -[4547.38 --> 4547.94] command -[4547.94 --> 4548.64] right -[4548.64 --> 4548.76] and -[4548.76 --> 4548.96] so -[4548.96 --> 4549.54] David -[4549.54 --> 4549.80] is -[4549.80 --> 4550.14] saying -[4550.14 --> 4551.10] I -[4551.10 --> 4551.58] believe -[4551.58 --> 4551.94] this -[4551.94 --> 4552.34] about -[4552.34 --> 4552.64] you -[4552.64 --> 4552.96] and -[4552.96 --> 4553.24] have -[4553.24 --> 4553.64] believed -[4553.64 --> 4553.90] this -[4553.90 --> 4554.20] about -[4554.20 --> 4554.38] you -[4554.38 --> 4554.50] and -[4554.50 --> 4554.64] that -[4554.64 --> 4555.22] defines -[4555.22 --> 4555.78] reality -[4555.78 --> 4556.14] for -[4556.14 --> 4556.40] me -[4556.40 --> 4556.92] and -[4556.92 --> 4557.22] so -[4557.22 --> 4557.58] because -[4557.58 --> 4558.00] of -[4558.00 --> 4558.20] that -[4558.20 --> 4558.58] belief -[4558.58 --> 4559.44] may -[4559.44 --> 4560.14] I -[4560.14 --> 4562.16] rejoice -[4562.16 --> 4563.44] in -[4563.44 --> 4563.64] your -[4563.64 --> 4564.20] salvation -[4564.20 --> 4565.42] right -[4565.42 --> 4565.60] it's -[4565.60 --> 4566.20] it's -[4566.20 --> 4566.50] it's -[4566.50 --> 4566.72] an -[4566.72 --> 4567.52] instruction -[4567.52 --> 4568.10] to -[4568.10 --> 4568.78] himself -[4568.78 --> 4569.44] right -[4569.44 --> 4569.92] that out -[4569.92 --> 4570.24] of the -[4570.24 --> 4570.74] trust -[4570.74 --> 4570.98] that -[4570.98 --> 4571.12] he -[4571.12 --> 4571.68] believed -[4571.68 --> 4571.96] in -[4571.96 --> 4572.64] even -[4572.64 --> 4572.90] in -[4572.90 --> 4573.06] the -[4573.06 --> 4573.34] midst -[4573.34 --> 4573.66] of -[4573.66 --> 4573.84] his -[4573.84 --> 4574.30] anger -[4574.30 --> 4574.76] and -[4574.76 --> 4575.12] pain -[4575.12 --> 4575.30] right -[4575.30 --> 4575.50] because -[4575.50 --> 4575.88] the -[4575.88 --> 4576.18] first -[4576.18 --> 4576.68] four -[4576.68 --> 4577.08] verses -[4577.08 --> 4577.38] here -[4577.38 --> 4577.54] are -[4577.54 --> 4577.72] not -[4577.72 --> 4578.24] dismissed -[4578.24 --> 4578.60] they're not -[4578.60 --> 4579.00] forgotten -[4579.00 --> 4579.48] when we get -[4579.48 --> 4579.78] to verse -[4579.78 --> 4580.10] five -[4580.10 --> 4580.80] they're brought -[4580.80 --> 4581.60] into it -[4581.60 --> 4583.60] and in -[4583.60 --> 4584.02] bringing it -[4584.02 --> 4584.36] in he -[4584.36 --> 4584.72] says -[4584.72 --> 4585.00] may -[4585.00 --> 4585.44] even -[4585.44 --> 4585.84] here -[4585.84 --> 4586.10] and -[4586.10 --> 4586.50] now -[4586.50 --> 4586.92] I -[4586.92 --> 4587.76] worship -[4587.76 --> 4588.96] you -[4588.96 --> 4591.10] I think -[4591.10 --> 4591.58] the lesson -[4591.58 --> 4592.18] here for -[4592.18 --> 4592.44] us -[4592.44 --> 4593.00] the application -[4593.00 --> 4593.40] here for -[4593.40 --> 4593.60] us -[4593.60 --> 4594.10] is that -[4594.10 --> 4594.62] sometimes -[4594.62 --> 4595.38] we just -[4595.38 --> 4595.92] gotta preach -[4595.92 --> 4596.42] the gospel -[4596.42 --> 4597.22] to ourselves -[4597.22 --> 4598.46] right -[4598.46 --> 4598.70] you know -[4598.70 --> 4599.00] how it -[4599.00 --> 4599.26] is -[4599.26 --> 4599.52] you know -[4599.52 --> 4600.00] that the -[4600.00 --> 4600.30] voice -[4600.30 --> 4600.68] in your -[4600.68 --> 4600.86] own -[4600.86 --> 4601.16] head -[4601.16 --> 4601.62] works -[4601.62 --> 4602.06] right -[4602.06 --> 4602.98] that it -[4602.98 --> 4603.64] overwhelms -[4603.64 --> 4603.92] you -[4603.92 --> 4604.62] with saying -[4604.62 --> 4604.90] that you -[4604.90 --> 4605.18] are not -[4605.18 --> 4605.58] enough -[4605.58 --> 4606.10] you are -[4606.10 --> 4606.50] not good -[4606.50 --> 4606.80] enough -[4606.80 --> 4607.04] you are -[4607.04 --> 4607.60] not worthy -[4607.60 --> 4608.30] it overwhelms -[4608.30 --> 4608.58] you by -[4608.58 --> 4608.84] saying -[4608.84 --> 4609.36] that was -[4609.36 --> 4609.94] unfair -[4609.94 --> 4610.44] that shouldn't -[4610.44 --> 4610.58] have -[4610.58 --> 4611.08] happened -[4611.08 --> 4611.44] to you -[4611.44 --> 4611.76] that was -[4611.76 --> 4612.38] unjust -[4612.38 --> 4613.38] and perhaps -[4613.38 --> 4614.22] just like -[4614.22 --> 4614.90] Jesus says -[4614.90 --> 4615.30] to Peter -[4615.30 --> 4615.70] sometimes -[4615.70 --> 4616.30] we need -[4616.30 --> 4616.68] to say -[4616.68 --> 4617.16] to our -[4617.16 --> 4617.52] own -[4617.52 --> 4618.00] hearts -[4618.00 --> 4618.22] and -[4618.22 --> 4618.84] imaginations -[4618.84 --> 4619.74] get behind -[4619.74 --> 4620.02] me -[4620.02 --> 4620.34] Satan -[4620.34 --> 4621.52] right -[4621.52 --> 4621.88] we need -[4621.88 --> 4622.22] to hear -[4622.22 --> 4622.72] the words -[4622.72 --> 4623.28] of Jesus -[4623.28 --> 4623.84] for our -[4623.84 --> 4624.10] own -[4624.10 --> 4624.40] heart -[4624.40 --> 4624.86] and mind -[4624.86 --> 4625.50] Jesus -[4625.50 --> 4626.08] who said -[4626.08 --> 4626.62] come to -[4626.62 --> 4626.84] me -[4626.84 --> 4627.22] all -[4627.22 --> 4627.46] who -[4627.46 --> 4627.64] are -[4627.64 --> 4628.02] weary -[4628.02 --> 4628.80] and heavy -[4628.80 --> 4629.14] laden -[4629.14 --> 4629.60] and I -[4629.60 --> 4630.06] will -[4630.06 --> 4630.42] give -[4630.42 --> 4630.74] you -[4630.74 --> 4631.58] rest -[4631.58 --> 4632.62] Jesus -[4632.62 --> 4632.90] who -[4632.90 --> 4633.28] entered -[4633.28 --> 4633.68] into -[4633.68 --> 4633.88] the -[4633.88 --> 4634.30] pain -[4634.30 --> 4634.88] and the -[4634.88 --> 4635.50] brokenness -[4635.50 --> 4635.96] of our -[4635.96 --> 4636.26] world -[4636.26 --> 4636.72] and lived -[4636.72 --> 4637.12] the life -[4637.12 --> 4637.74] I should -[4637.74 --> 4638.18] have lived -[4638.18 --> 4638.66] and died -[4638.66 --> 4639.18] the death -[4639.18 --> 4639.56] that I -[4639.56 --> 4640.22] deserved -[4640.22 --> 4640.90] Jesus -[4640.90 --> 4641.48] who bore -[4641.48 --> 4642.04] the full -[4642.04 --> 4642.48] wrath -[4642.48 --> 4642.90] of God -[4642.90 --> 4643.18] the full -[4643.18 --> 4643.58] anger -[4643.58 --> 4644.08] of God -[4644.08 --> 4644.96] for my -[4644.96 --> 4645.36] sin -[4645.36 --> 4646.14] he bore -[4646.14 --> 4646.32] it -[4646.32 --> 4646.94] on the -[4646.94 --> 4647.36] cross -[4647.36 --> 4647.84] endured -[4647.84 --> 4648.12] its -[4648.12 --> 4648.52] pain -[4648.52 --> 4649.42] and scored -[4649.42 --> 4649.72] its -[4649.72 --> 4650.08] shame -[4650.08 --> 4652.12] may my -[4652.12 --> 4652.68] heart -[4652.68 --> 4653.50] rejoice -[4653.50 --> 4654.64] in your -[4654.64 --> 4655.34] salvation -[4655.34 --> 4657.10] and when -[4657.10 --> 4657.56] David wrote -[4657.56 --> 4658.04] that line -[4658.04 --> 4658.58] he didn't -[4658.58 --> 4658.98] know the -[4658.98 --> 4659.48] full scope -[4659.48 --> 4659.82] of what -[4659.82 --> 4660.14] he was -[4660.14 --> 4660.48] talking -[4660.48 --> 4660.78] about -[4660.78 --> 4660.96] here -[4660.96 --> 4661.58] but there's -[4661.58 --> 4662.02] this beautiful -[4662.02 --> 4662.58] thing going -[4662.58 --> 4663.16] on in that -[4663.16 --> 4663.74] phrase -[4663.74 --> 4664.36] the word -[4664.36 --> 4664.78] that David -[4664.78 --> 4665.38] uses for -[4665.38 --> 4665.86] salvation -[4665.86 --> 4666.72] is Yeshua -[4666.72 --> 4668.58] which becomes -[4668.58 --> 4669.08] a name -[4669.08 --> 4669.90] Joshua -[4669.90 --> 4671.08] which in -[4671.08 --> 4671.48] Greek -[4671.48 --> 4672.12] and it's -[4672.12 --> 4672.28] Greek -[4672.28 --> 4672.68] pronunciation -[4672.68 --> 4673.36] we know -[4673.36 --> 4673.70] as -[4673.70 --> 4674.80] Jesus -[4674.80 --> 4677.10] may I -[4677.10 --> 4677.78] rejoice -[4677.78 --> 4679.10] in your -[4679.10 --> 4680.28] Jesus -[4680.28 --> 4682.32] Yeshua -[4682.32 --> 4683.56] Messiah -[4683.56 --> 4684.00] Jesus -[4684.00 --> 4684.78] Messiah -[4684.78 --> 4685.34] Jesus -[4685.34 --> 4686.40] Christ -[4686.40 --> 4687.04] we need -[4687.04 --> 4687.50] to preach -[4687.50 --> 4688.10] the gospel -[4688.10 --> 4688.80] to ourselves -[4688.80 --> 4689.36] in these -[4689.36 --> 4689.84] moments of -[4689.84 --> 4690.24] anger -[4690.24 --> 4691.02] in these -[4691.02 --> 4691.88] moments of -[4691.88 --> 4692.38] the apparent -[4692.38 --> 4693.22] absence of -[4693.22 --> 4693.56] God -[4693.56 --> 4694.40] and remember -[4694.40 --> 4695.28] who it was -[4695.28 --> 4695.94] that cried -[4695.94 --> 4696.28] out -[4696.28 --> 4696.86] my God -[4696.86 --> 4697.42] my God -[4697.42 --> 4698.22] why have -[4698.22 --> 4698.88] you forsaken -[4698.88 --> 4699.10] me -[4699.10 --> 4699.72] remember -[4699.72 --> 4700.12] that the -[4700.12 --> 4700.60] one who -[4700.60 --> 4701.48] experienced -[4701.48 --> 4702.44] God's face -[4702.44 --> 4703.50] being turned -[4703.50 --> 4704.18] away from -[4704.18 --> 4704.38] him -[4704.38 --> 4705.02] did so -[4705.02 --> 4705.44] so that -[4705.44 --> 4705.92] you and -[4705.92 --> 4706.22] I -[4706.22 --> 4707.04] would never -[4707.04 --> 4708.14] have to -[4708.14 --> 4711.54] in his -[4711.54 --> 4713.40] most excellent -[4713.40 --> 4713.92] book -[4713.92 --> 4714.98] walking with -[4714.98 --> 4715.28] God -[4715.28 --> 4715.86] through pain -[4715.86 --> 4716.48] and suffering -[4716.48 --> 4717.98] Tim Keller -[4717.98 --> 4718.44] writes -[4718.44 --> 4720.70] if you go -[4720.70 --> 4721.26] into the -[4721.26 --> 4721.56] furnace -[4721.56 --> 4722.16] without the -[4722.16 --> 4722.56] gospel -[4722.56 --> 4724.00] it will not -[4724.00 --> 4724.64] be possible -[4724.64 --> 4725.22] to find -[4725.22 --> 4725.84] God there -[4725.84 --> 4727.50] you will be -[4727.50 --> 4728.14] sure he -[4728.14 --> 4728.62] has done -[4728.62 --> 4729.08] a terrible -[4729.08 --> 4729.48] wrong -[4729.48 --> 4730.32] or you -[4730.32 --> 4730.72] have -[4730.72 --> 4731.22] and you -[4731.22 --> 4731.66] will feel -[4731.66 --> 4732.12] alone -[4732.12 --> 4733.02] you will -[4733.02 --> 4733.50] be mad -[4733.50 --> 4733.98] at God -[4733.98 --> 4734.40] or mad -[4734.40 --> 4734.94] at yourself -[4734.94 --> 4735.86] or mad -[4735.86 --> 4736.74] at both -[4736.74 --> 4738.90] but -[4738.90 --> 4740.92] if you -[4740.92 --> 4741.60] go into -[4741.60 --> 4742.26] the furnace -[4742.26 --> 4742.88] with -[4742.88 --> 4743.96] the gospel -[4743.96 --> 4745.22] you will -[4745.22 --> 4745.88] find -[4745.88 --> 4746.84] a God -[4746.84 --> 4747.10] who -[4747.10 --> 4747.76] entered -[4747.76 --> 4748.74] the furnace -[4748.74 --> 4749.62] for you -[4749.62 --> 4750.38] you will -[4750.38 --> 4750.80] find -[4750.80 --> 4751.26] Jesus -[4751.26 --> 4752.04] who knows -[4752.04 --> 4752.74] your hurt -[4752.74 --> 4753.66] because he -[4753.66 --> 4754.26] endured -[4754.26 --> 4754.88] the same -[4754.88 --> 4755.88] you will -[4755.88 --> 4756.66] find a God -[4756.66 --> 4757.28] who is big -[4757.28 --> 4757.60] enough -[4757.60 --> 4758.50] to handle -[4758.50 --> 4759.12] your anger -[4759.12 --> 4760.22] and a God -[4760.22 --> 4760.80] who is big -[4760.80 --> 4761.08] enough -[4761.08 --> 4761.70] to have -[4761.70 --> 4762.32] reasons -[4762.32 --> 4763.16] for your -[4763.16 --> 4763.90] experience -[4763.90 --> 4764.34] that you -[4764.34 --> 4764.84] might not -[4764.84 --> 4765.18] be able -[4765.18 --> 4765.76] to comprehend -[4765.76 --> 4766.96] or understand -[4766.96 --> 4767.52] you will -[4767.52 --> 4768.24] find a God -[4768.24 --> 4768.82] who has -[4768.82 --> 4769.66] been good -[4769.66 --> 4770.12] to you -[4770.12 --> 4770.66] and so -[4770.66 --> 4771.36] you can -[4771.36 --> 4771.80] walk -[4771.80 --> 4772.30] forward -[4772.30 --> 4773.22] with him -[4773.22 --> 4776.22] turning -[4776.22 --> 4776.88] your anger -[4776.88 --> 4777.38] into -[4777.38 --> 4778.34] prayer -[4778.34 --> 4779.00] is an -[4779.00 --> 4779.58] act of -[4779.58 --> 4780.10] faith -[4780.10 --> 4780.96] towards -[4780.96 --> 4781.44] the one -[4781.44 --> 4781.90] and in -[4781.90 --> 4782.32] the one -[4782.32 --> 4783.06] the only -[4783.06 --> 4783.38] one -[4783.38 --> 4783.74] who can -[4783.74 --> 4783.94] do -[4783.94 --> 4784.38] something -[4784.38 --> 4785.08] about -[4785.08 --> 4785.38] it -[4785.38 --> 4788.04] and so -[4788.04 --> 4789.54] maybe you -[4789.54 --> 4789.88] can't -[4789.88 --> 4790.20] sing -[4790.20 --> 4790.64] today -[4790.64 --> 4794.90] maybe -[4794.90 --> 4795.18] today -[4795.18 --> 4795.54] is not -[4795.54 --> 4795.96] that day -[4795.96 --> 4796.42] for you -[4796.42 --> 4799.50] but you -[4799.50 --> 4799.98] will sing -[4799.98 --> 4800.34] again -[4800.34 --> 4802.08] on the -[4802.08 --> 4802.56] confidence -[4802.56 --> 4803.16] of the -[4803.16 --> 4803.58] gospel -[4803.58 --> 4804.20] of Jesus -[4804.20 --> 4804.82] Christ -[4804.82 --> 4805.74] I can -[4805.74 --> 4806.10] say -[4806.10 --> 4806.88] you will -[4806.88 --> 4807.60] sing -[4807.60 --> 4808.38] again -[4808.38 --> 4810.66] we can't -[4810.66 --> 4810.96] skip -[4810.96 --> 4811.58] the cross -[4811.58 --> 4814.12] but if -[4814.12 --> 4814.42] you look -[4814.42 --> 4814.66] at the -[4814.66 --> 4814.94] cross -[4814.94 --> 4815.36] today -[4815.36 --> 4816.50] you will -[4816.50 --> 4816.84] see that -[4816.84 --> 4817.02] it's -[4817.02 --> 4817.30] empty -[4817.30 --> 4819.54] and you -[4819.54 --> 4819.86] will see -[4819.86 --> 4820.14] that the -[4820.14 --> 4820.50] tomb -[4820.50 --> 4820.84] that they -[4820.84 --> 4821.24] laid his -[4821.24 --> 4821.84] body in -[4821.84 --> 4822.96] is also -[4822.96 --> 4823.96] empty -[4823.96 --> 4826.60] and maybe -[4826.60 --> 4827.24] not today -[4827.24 --> 4829.34] maybe not -[4829.34 --> 4829.82] tomorrow -[4829.82 --> 4831.50] but one -[4831.50 --> 4832.16] day soon -[4832.16 --> 4832.80] Lord willing -[4832.80 --> 4833.32] one day -[4833.32 --> 4834.50] very soon -[4834.50 --> 4835.96] he will -[4835.96 --> 4836.50] raise us -[4836.50 --> 4837.36] all up -[4837.36 --> 4838.32] again -[4838.32 --> 4840.28] how long -[4840.28 --> 4840.76] oh Lord -[4840.76 --> 4841.12] will you -[4841.12 --> 4841.64] forget me -[4841.64 --> 4841.96] forever -[4841.96 --> 4843.68] no -[4843.68 --> 4845.84] he won't -[4845.84 --> 4847.08] amen -[4847.08 --> 4848.48] let's -[4848.48 --> 4848.72] pray -[4848.72 --> 4858.10] Lord our -[4858.10 --> 4858.52] God we -[4858.52 --> 4859.58] come to -[4859.58 --> 4859.92] you -[4859.92 --> 4860.98] now -[4860.98 --> 4862.32] whether -[4862.32 --> 4862.94] crying out -[4862.94 --> 4863.44] in pain -[4863.44 --> 4864.10] or anger -[4864.10 --> 4865.14] or crying -[4865.14 --> 4865.50] out in -[4865.50 --> 4866.00] celebration -[4866.00 --> 4866.48] and joy -[4866.48 --> 4866.94] we come -[4866.94 --> 4867.36] to you -[4867.36 --> 4867.98] together -[4867.98 --> 4868.80] as a -[4868.80 --> 4869.06] body -[4869.06 --> 4869.98] that rejoices -[4869.98 --> 4870.42] together -[4870.42 --> 4871.48] and mourns -[4871.48 --> 4871.80] together -[4871.80 --> 4872.12] as a -[4872.12 --> 4872.34] body -[4872.34 --> 4872.54] that -[4872.54 --> 4873.12] celebrates -[4873.12 --> 4873.76] together -[4873.76 --> 4874.56] and endures -[4874.56 --> 4875.08] pain -[4875.08 --> 4875.48] together -[4875.48 --> 4875.84] as a -[4875.84 --> 4876.06] body -[4876.06 --> 4876.26] that -[4876.26 --> 4877.54] encourages -[4877.54 --> 4877.84] one -[4877.84 --> 4878.16] another -[4878.16 --> 4879.98] and endures -[4879.98 --> 4880.64] scorn -[4880.64 --> 4881.42] with one -[4881.42 --> 4881.76] another -[4881.76 --> 4883.98] we come -[4883.98 --> 4884.38] to you -[4884.38 --> 4884.86] Lord God -[4884.86 --> 4885.34] because you -[4885.34 --> 4885.84] have first -[4885.84 --> 4886.36] come to -[4886.36 --> 4886.82] us -[4886.82 --> 4887.32] and so -[4887.32 --> 4888.02] hear the -[4888.02 --> 4888.56] cries -[4888.56 --> 4889.34] of our -[4889.34 --> 4889.72] heart -[4889.72 --> 4890.98] even the -[4890.98 --> 4891.34] angry -[4891.34 --> 4891.84] ones -[4891.84 --> 4895.64] we come -[4895.64 --> 4896.08] to you -[4896.08 --> 4899.34] may we -[4899.34 --> 4899.80] rest -[4899.80 --> 4900.08] rest -[4900.08 --> 4901.74] in your -[4901.74 --> 4902.28] presence -[4902.28 --> 4904.14] as you -[4904.14 --> 4904.82] come -[4904.82 --> 4905.72] to us -[4905.72 --> 4907.26] in Jesus -[4907.26 --> 4907.60] name -[4907.60 --> 4908.10] we pray -[4908.10 --> 4909.50] amen -[4909.50 --> 4938.32] shoot -[4939.50 --> 4951.32] Precious Lord, take my hand -[4951.32 --> 4955.38] Lead me on, help me stand -[4955.38 --> 4962.82] I am tired, I am weak, I am warm -[4962.82 --> 4967.02] Through the storm, through the night -[4967.02 --> 4971.10] Lead me on to the night -[4971.10 --> 4977.42] Take my hand, Precious Lord, lead me on -[4977.42 --> 4982.98] When my way grows near -[4982.98 --> 4987.18] Precious Lord, lay beneath him -[4987.18 --> 4993.50] When my life is almost gone -[4993.50 --> 4999.02] Hear my cry, hear my call -[4999.02 --> 5003.12] Hold my hand as I call -[5003.12 --> 5009.58] Make my hand, Precious Lord, lead me on -[5009.58 --> 5015.22] When the darkness appears -[5015.22 --> 5019.24] And the night draws near -[5019.24 --> 5026.26] And the day is past and long -[5026.26 --> 5031.12] At the river I stand -[5031.12 --> 5035.38] Guide my feet, hold my hand -[5035.38 --> 5041.62] Take my hand, Precious Lord, lead me on -[5041.62 --> 5047.08] And the day is past and long -[5047.08 --> 5051.32] I am weak, I am weak, I am weak -[5051.32 --> 5067.96] Please remain calm -[5067.96 --> 5071.08] Exit the building through these side doors here -[5071.08 --> 5073.18] Ushers, please open these doors -[5073.18 --> 5076.28] Elders, help those who need assistance exiting -[5076.28 --> 5080.20] Parents, your children are already leaving the building -[5080.20 --> 5083.42] With children, worship time and nursery volunteers -[5083.42 --> 5087.02] Everyone please meet at the gathering point -[5087.02 --> 5089.42] North of the playground outside -[5089.42 --> 5091.98] The gathering point north of the playground -[5091.98 --> 5093.84] Exit calmly -[5093.84 --> 5097.86] Elders, duty elders, please check -[5097.86 --> 5098.96] Guardie students -[5098.96 --> 5100.28] Let me dis Aaah -[5100.98 --> 5104.54] Jazz BJ -[5104.54 --> 5106.10] Now if you very Garden -[5106.10 --> 5108.72] Watch these guys -[5108.72 --> 5109.94] at the time -[5109.94 --> 5111.28] Let me dis -[5111.28 --> 5112.64] A gonna touch -[5112.64 --> 5114.24] A pack -[5114.24 --> 5114.52] The night -[5114.52 --> 5116.92] Deque -[5116.92 --> 5118.16] guns -[5118.16 --> 5119.54] nichts -[5119.54 --> 5122.02] Stars -[5122.02 --> 5123.52] αν -[5123.52 --> 5124.84] Snow -[5124.84 --> 5124.98] Present -[5124.98 --> 5126.44] �� diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 2, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 2, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index e2d72bb58e02b2a8a38ea8dfd5b8c1c39a0cb22b..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 2, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,135 +0,0 @@ -• The song "I Can Sing of Your Love Forever" is repeated multiple times -• Introduction to church service, including a welcome for visitors -• Announcement of new teaching series and children's worship program starting up again -• Information on GEMS (Girls' Education and Ministry Support) program for girls grades 3-7 -• Brief meeting for church members over 18 to discuss proposal for young adult ministry -• Introduction to Roots and Routes, an adult education program studying the book "Secular Creed" -• Discussion about a session on October 26th led by Pastor Chris -• Announcements for worship service and Lord's Supper next week -• Invitation to reflect on relationship with God as a family -• Thanksgiving weekend worship service invitation -• Safe Church training meeting on October 27th, required for volunteers working with youth and vulnerable populations -• Call to worship from Psalm 97 -• Hymns of praise to God's redeeming love -• Reference to the Heidelberg Catechism, question and answer number 60 -• Discussion of justification by faith in Jesus Christ -• Scriptural passage about trusting in God despite life's challenges -• References to Psalm 23 and other biblical texts -• Reflections on God as a rock and redeemer -• Acknowledgment of God's sovereignty over nature and human circumstances -• Discussion of a hymn or song with repeated phrases "It is well with my soul" -• Reference to the storm and its impact -• Introduction of speaker Clem and their role as a deacon -• Explanation of special offerings for Langley Emanuel's ministries and missions, including the benevolence fund -• Discussion of the definition of benevolence and its importance in the church community -• Mention of a passage from Galatians 6.10 -• Introduction to next week's special offering for the Langley Food Bank -• Prayers and calls to God for help and guidance, referencing biblical figures such as Moses, Mary, and David -• Faithfulness of God mentioned -• Children discuss summer experiences: small things seen (e.g. flies, ladybugs) -• Discussion about biggest thing seen during summer (e.g. moon, sun, sky) -• Introduction to new children's worship time and fresh start -• Discussion about choosing a story from the Bible for the first day -• Creation story from Genesis -• Church family prayer and confession -• National Day for Truth and Reconciliation -• Thanksgiving for good things in life -• Prayer for church ministries and leadership -• Upcoming congregational meeting and proposal for young adults ministry -• Prayers for those affected by natural disasters (Hurricane Fiona, Ian) -• Prayers for international efforts to rebuild and care for those affected -• Prayers for the war in Ukraine and its impact on Ukrainians and Russians -• Discussion of people upset about the possibility of conscription and some leaving the country -• Prayer for strength, peace, and guidance in times of struggle -• Introduction to Psalm 130 and its significance -• Story of visiting Sunridge Retirement Living Community and leading worship with residents -• Reflection on the beauty and importance of songs of worship, regardless of age or familiarity -• Discussion of memorizing Psalms as an immigrant from Holland -• Introduction to a new series using the book of Psalms to understand emotions and feelings -• Explanation that each week will focus on a different emotional experience or feeling -• The Bible as the divinely authorized voice of God -• The Psalms as a true and unfiltered representation of human emotions -• The importance of considering the historical and cultural context in which the Bible was written -• The concept of divine inspiration vs. human mediation in the creation of scripture -• The tension between the authority of Scripture and its humanity and imperfections -• The doctrine of inspiration and how it relates to the Bible -• How God's word about himself can be understood through scripture -• The Psalms as a clear example of this doctrine in action -• The influence of the book "The Cry of the Soul" by Dr. Dan Allender on planning and discerning the series -• The current cultural context of feelings of isolation, loneliness, hopelessness, and despair, and how to live faithfully through it using biblical principles -• Reading from Psalm 130 to start the series -• Discussing the theme of crying out to God in times of need -• Exploring God's nature: holy, transcendent, imminent, and present -• Understanding human emotions and experiences in relation to God -• The importance of approaching God with reverence and humility -• Encouraging readers to read and memorize the Psalms -• The importance of the Psalms in worship and liturgy -• The history and tradition surrounding the use of Psalms in worship across cultures -• Connection between Psalms and Jesus' birth, life, death, resurrection, and exaltation -• Brief historical lesson on the early church and Saint Athanasius' influence on the Council of Nicaea -• Athanasius wrote a letter to Marcellinus about the book of Psalms -• The psalms contain all movements of the soul, its changes, failures, and recoveries -• A person can select words from the psalms to remedy their specific needs or troubles -• Martin Luther saw the psalms as a treasure hidden in the field, containing everything in the Bible -• Luther considered the psalms to be like a little Bible, with all promises of Christ's death and resurrection revealed -• The speaker describes a book as an "anatomy of all parts of the soul" -• Calvin is quoted as saying that emotions are represented in the book like reflections in a mirror -• The Psalter is mentioned as a collection of words from God to his people and vice versa -• The series on faith and feelings will explore how to understand oneself and one's emotions through the Christian tradition and biblical teaching -• The speaker distinguishes their approach from pop psychology or modern anthropology, instead drawing on ancient Christian wisdom. -• The importance of considering a higher power or divine creator in understanding human nature and behavior -• Critique of modern psychology and therapy as not being based on divine principles -• Importance of questioning the presuppositions of modern ways of seeing the world -• Need to test all truths against scripture -• Value of biblical and spiritual counsel over therapy -• Practical value of seeking guidance from pastors or community rather than therapists -• Importance of community in therapy and counseling -• Difference between superficial Bible reading and genuine application of God's word -• Role of listening and asking good questions in counseling -• Power of God's word to bring change and fulfillment in life -• Trusting that God's word will accomplish its purposes when received and applied -• The concept that emotions are amoral and it's not what we feel, but rather how we act on those feelings that can be sinful -• Criticism of this view for assuming that some part of our personality escaped the consequences of the fall -• Discussion of how sin entered the world and its impact on everything -• Examples of phrases used to describe emotions, such as "I just feel this way" or "I'm feeling this, I can't help it" -• The issue of not being able to control our feelings -• Human depravity and the effects of sin -• The fall's impact on human emotions, thoughts, and behaviors -• How people are affected by sin, even unconsciously -• Recognizing and resisting the influence of sin in one's life -• The importance of understanding and addressing the role of sin in personal struggles and emotions. -• The Lord looks down from heaven to see if there are any who understand and seek God, but all have turned away and become corrupt. -• Psalm 50 says that no one in their heart devises injustice, but they do met out violence on the earth. -• The wicked go astray from birth and spread lies. -• People are born into a reality of sin and its effects, affecting our hearts, emotions, and minds. -• With the help of the Holy Spirit, God's voice, and Psalm 50, we can master, learn about, reflect on, and hold up these scriptures to the light of Jesus Christ. -• We should be transformed by the renewing of our minds, making us look more like Jesus. -• Jesus prays to God in the Garden of Gethsemane before his betrayal and crucifixion -• He refers to a "cup" that he requests be taken from him, which is a prophetic image used in other biblical passages to show God's judgment for sin -• On the cross, Jesus cries out to God and asks why he has been forsaken -• Psalm 22 is mentioned as a passage where Jesus' words on the cross are echoed -• The importance of worship being sincere and not just joyful or happy is discussed -• The speaker is in a state of emotional pain and grief, comparing it to the depths of the shadow of death. -• They cry out to their father (presumably God) for comfort and relief from their suffering. -• The speaker promises that when one cries out to God in their darkest moments, he will hear them and come to them. -• God's promise is reiterated as a guarantee that he will never leave or forsake those who cry out to him. -• The speaker emphasizes the Lord's role as the one who hears and responds to prayers. -• The importance of speaking in holiness and faith -• Turning darkness into dancing through God's mercies -• The voice of Jesus as the psalter, always available to the heart in worship -• God hears the cries of the soul and comes in times of need -• Praying from the depths, seeking to hear God's voice and find guidance -• Seeking comfort and help in dark times, turning to the light of God's word -• Coming to Jesus as a good shepherd in times of struggle and death -• Hope in Christ as the sole source of comfort -• Trust in God's goodness and grace -• Assurance that souls belong to Christ -• Confidence in Christ's command and promise -• Love of Christ as a constant presence -• Eternal life with Christ as a future reward -• Discussion of hope in Christ -• Reflections on the depths of emotions and struggles -• The promise of God's restoration of all things -• Invitation to come to Christ through Revelation 22 -• Praise and worship, including hymns and scripture readings -• Brief meeting announcement for guests and members \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 2, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 2, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a4af68c4b6365245d6e236ee10237211fddffe70..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 2, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2593 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] I can sing of your love forever -[30.00 --> 37.00] I can sing of your love forever -[37.00 --> 41.00] I can sing of your love forever -[41.00 --> 47.00] I can sing of your love forever -[47.00 --> 52.00] I can sing of your love -[52.00 --> 57.00] Oh I feel like dancing -[57.00 --> 62.00] It's foolishness I know -[62.00 --> 65.00] But when the world is in light -[65.00 --> 68.00] They will dance with joy -[68.00 --> 72.00] Like we're dancing now -[72.00 --> 77.00] I can sing of your love forever -[77.00 --> 82.00] I can sing of your love forever -[82.00 --> 87.00] I can sing of your love forever -[87.00 --> 92.00] I can sing of your love forever -[92.00 --> 97.00] I will sing of your love forever -[97.00 --> 101.00] I can sing of your love forever -[101.00 --> 104.00] I can sing of your love forever -[104.00 --> 108.00] I can sing of your love forever -[108.00 --> 111.00] I can sing of your love forever -[111.00 --> 118.00] I can sing of your love forever -[118.00 --> 121.00] I can sing of your love forever -[121.00 --> 126.00] I can sing of your love forever -[126.00 --> 133.00] I can sing of your love forever -[133.00 --> 136.00] I can sing of your love forever -[136.00 --> 139.00] I can sing of your love forever -[139.00 --> 146.00] I can sing of your love forever -[146.00 --> 150.00] I can sing of your love forever -[150.00 --> 152.00] I can sing of your love forever -[152.00 --> 159.00] I can sing of your love forever -[159.00 --> 160.94] forever -[189.00 --> 218.98] Thank you. -[219.00 --> 248.98] Thank you. -[249.00 --> 278.98] Thank you. -[279.00 --> 281.00] Thank you. -[309.00 --> 311.00] Thank you. -[339.00 --> 341.00] Thank you. -[369.00 --> 371.00] Thank you. -[399.00 --> 401.00] Thank you. -[429.00 --> 431.00] Thank you. -[459.00 --> 461.00] Thank you. -[489.00 --> 491.00] Thank you. -[519.00 --> 521.00] Thank you. -[521.00 --> 523.00] Thank you. -[523.00 --> 525.00] Thank you. -[525.00 --> 527.00] Thank you. -[527.00 --> 528.00] Good morning. -[528.00 --> 529.00] How's everyone doing? -[529.00 --> 530.00] Great. -[530.00 --> 531.00] All right. -[531.00 --> 532.00] All right. -[532.00 --> 533.00] So the people behind me are doing good. -[533.00 --> 535.00] Jerry's doing okay. -[535.00 --> 537.00] How about the rest of y'all? -[537.00 --> 538.00] Okay. -[538.00 --> 539.00] The people behind me are doing okay. -[539.00 --> 540.00] And Jerry's doing okay. -[540.00 --> 542.00] How about the rest of y'all? -[542.00 --> 543.00] There we go. -[543.00 --> 544.00] Thank you. -[544.00 --> 545.00] My goodness. -[545.00 --> 547.00] Welcome to church. -[547.00 --> 548.00] A special welcome. -[548.00 --> 554.00] If you are visiting with us this morning, we are really excited to worship together this week. -[554.00 --> 557.00] We're excited as we dig into a new teaching series. -[557.00 --> 562.00] We're excited as today's the first Sunday that children's worship time is back up and running. -[562.00 --> 568.00] And so kids are very excited and parents are even more excited for that. -[568.00 --> 579.00] If you don't know what I'm talking about and you're visiting with us, that table back there, you can sign up your kids up to grade four to participate in our children's worship. -[579.00 --> 583.00] They leave through the service and you can get them involved there. -[583.00 --> 593.00] This week, the GEMS program begins on Thursday, which is a girls program for girls from grade three, three to seven. -[593.00 --> 594.00] Thank you. -[594.00 --> 598.00] And so you can get ready for that and sign up for that. -[598.00 --> 600.00] If you have questions about that, Courtney is there. -[600.00 --> 601.00] She'll gladly answer them. -[601.00 --> 605.00] Or my daughter, Nora, will tell you everything about GEMS as well. -[605.00 --> 615.00] Following our worship together this morning, we have a brief special meeting for the members of Emmanuel. -[615.00 --> 628.00] And so if you are a member over 18, we're going to ask that you stay for a few minutes after our worship together so we can have a quick discussion about a proposal from council for the young adult ministry. -[628.00 --> 631.00] Eric will give more explanation on that later. -[631.00 --> 634.00] If you are visiting with us, you have two choices. -[634.00 --> 641.00] You can stay here and hang out and hear about the awesome things that are happening in our midst in that ministry and program. -[641.00 --> 649.00] Or you can grab a coffee and hang out at the back and then the rest of us will join you as quickly as we can there. -[649.00 --> 651.00] I'm going to invite Perry to the front. -[651.00 --> 655.00] He's going to make an announcement on behalf of Roots and Routes as well. -[655.00 --> 673.00] Hello. -[673.00 --> 674.00] Good morning. -[674.00 --> 677.00] Okay, Roots and Routes. -[677.00 --> 683.00] This is a thing that we've been having going for a few years before the pandemic. -[683.00 --> 684.00] It's starting up. -[684.00 --> 689.00] Roots and Routes is basically an adult education form and you get to grow in knowledge. -[689.00 --> 691.00] You get to grow in discipleship. -[691.00 --> 694.00] You get to grow in your relationship with God. -[694.00 --> 697.00] We tend to follow a particular book. -[697.00 --> 701.00] The book this time is Secular Creed. -[701.00 --> 706.00] We had about 30 copies of the book and they've been all given out. -[706.00 --> 709.00] Hopefully those who still owe $5 will pay that yet. -[709.00 --> 712.00] And we look forward to having you all there. -[712.00 --> 716.00] What else can I say about Roots and Routes? -[716.00 --> 721.00] Oh, it's October 26th on a Wednesday at 7.15 in the evening. -[721.00 --> 723.00] So we have a date pegged for that. -[723.00 --> 727.00] And Pastor Chris will be leading the session. -[727.00 --> 729.00] There's usually a presenter related to the book. -[729.00 --> 732.00] So Pastor Chris will be presenting on the book. -[732.00 --> 736.00] And we look to see as many people out as possible on that evening. -[736.00 --> 738.00] Thank you very much. -[738.00 --> 741.00] Thank you, Perry. -[741.00 --> 745.00] Just two more quick announcements. -[745.00 --> 750.00] First, next week in our worship together, we will be celebrating Lord's Supper. -[750.00 --> 756.00] And so we encourage you over this next week to reflect on your relationship to God. -[756.00 --> 764.00] And as you have the opportunity and ability in your homes with your kids to reflect on what it means to come to the table together. -[764.00 --> 769.00] So we can do that next week as a body and family together. -[769.00 --> 773.00] And then also next weekend is Thanksgiving weekend. -[773.00 --> 788.00] And so that means for us on Thanksgiving Monday, there is a worship service here at 10 o'clock, which you and your families are all invited to join and participate in as we gather to give thanks to our God for all that he has done for us. -[788.00 --> 791.00] I think that's it. -[791.00 --> 792.00] I think that's it. -[792.00 --> 794.00] I think that's it. -[794.00 --> 795.00] Safe Church. -[795.00 --> 797.00] I knew there was one more. -[797.00 --> 801.00] Tomorrow, October 3rd in the evening is a Safe Church training meeting. -[801.00 --> 814.00] And this is for all of us who volunteer and who serve in this church community, primarily for those of us who deal with youth and vulnerable sector populations. -[814.00 --> 815.00] But it is open to all. -[815.00 --> 820.00] And you are, I want to say strongly encouraged, but actually it's more than that. -[820.00 --> 825.00] You are required to attend this event if you volunteer in that capacity. -[825.00 --> 829.00] And so we had one previously and there were some 30, 40 people there, which was a great turnout. -[829.00 --> 834.00] We need probably three times that amount to get all the volunteers who serve in different capacities. -[834.00 --> 840.00] So please come tomorrow night for that training event here at the church. -[840.00 --> 842.00] At 7? -[842.00 --> 843.00] 7. -[843.00 --> 844.00] Very good. -[844.00 --> 845.00] Thank you. -[845.00 --> 849.00] Sylvia and you both are nodding, so I'm just going to go with that. -[849.00 --> 851.00] 7 o'clock, be here. -[851.00 --> 855.00] Now I think that's it, unless someone else wants to raise their hand. -[855.00 --> 856.00] All right. -[856.00 --> 858.00] Let's stand together. -[858.00 --> 865.00] Father, we can be greeted by God in our worship this morning. -[867.00 --> 871.00] We come into God's presence and he welcomes us here. -[872.00 --> 876.00] Grace, mercy, and peace to you. -[876.00 --> 881.00] From God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[882.00 --> 883.00] Amen. -[883.00 --> 889.00] As God has welcomed us into his presence, I'm going to invite you to turn to those around you and welcome them into worship. -[889.00 --> 892.00] Be mindful of how someone might be comfortable with that. -[892.00 --> 895.00] So fist bump or hug or holy kiss, but don't cross lines. -[895.00 --> 896.00] Amen. -[913.00 --> 926.00] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 97, verses 9 to 12. -[926.00 --> 931.00] For you, Lord, are the most high over all the earth. -[931.00 --> 935.00] You are exalted far above all gods. -[935.00 --> 944.00] Let those who love the Lord hate evil, for he guards the lives of his faithful ones and delivers them from the hand of the wicked. -[944.00 --> 949.00] Light shines on the righteous and joy on the upright in heart. -[949.00 --> 954.00] Rejoice in the Lord, you who are righteous, and praise his holy name. -[954.00 --> 957.00] Let those who love the Lord, you who are righteous, and praise his holy name. -[957.00 --> 960.00] Let those who love the Lord, you who are righteous, and praise his holy name. -[960.00 --> 962.00] Let that make out of the wicked and holy name. -[962.00 --> 990.00] From the ends of the earth, from the depths of the sea, from the heights of the heavens, your name be praised. -[990.00 --> 1009.00] From the hearts of the weak, from the shouts of the strong, from the lips of all people, this song we praise, Lord. -[1009.00 --> 1018.00] Throughout the endless ages, you will be crowned with praises, Lord. -[1018.00 --> 1032.04] Most high, exalted in every nation, sovereign of all creation, Lord. -[1032.04 --> 1041.04] Most high, be magnified, be magnified. -[1041.04 --> 1060.04] From the ends of the earth, from the depths of the sea, from the heights of the heavens, your name be praised. -[1060.04 --> 1080.04] From the hearts of the weak, from the shouts of the strong, from the lips of all people, this song we praise, Lord. -[1080.04 --> 1089.04] Throughout the endless ages, you will be crowned with praises, Lord. -[1089.04 --> 1102.98] Most high, exalted in every nation, sovereign of all creation, Lord. -[1102.98 --> 1104.98] Most high, be magnified. -[1104.98 --> 1116.30] Most high, throughout the endless ages, you will be crowned with praises, Lord. -[1116.30 --> 1118.30] Most high, be magnified. -[1118.30 --> 1120.30] Most high, be magnified. -[1120.30 --> 1121.30] Most high, be magnified. -[1121.30 --> 1129.30] Exalted in every nation, sovereign of all creation, Lord. -[1129.30 --> 1136.30] Most high, be magnified. -[1136.30 --> 1138.30] Be magnified. -[1138.30 --> 1140.30] Be magnified. -[1140.30 --> 1142.30] Be magnified. -[1142.30 --> 1170.40] Only my care, from the hearts of thy sins. -[1170.40 --> 1182.98] Come, Thou fount of every blessing, tune my heart to sing Thy grace. -[1182.98 --> 1194.82] Streams of mercy never ceasing, call for songs of loudest praise. -[1194.82 --> 1206.06] Teach me song, melodious sonnet, sung by flaming tongues above. -[1206.62 --> 1217.02] Praise the mount, I'm fixed upon it, mount of Thy redeeming love. -[1224.82 --> 1236.68] Here I raise my Ebenezer, hither by Thy help I've come. -[1237.12 --> 1247.68] And I hope by Thy good pleasure, safely to arrive at home. -[1247.68 --> 1259.40] Jesus sought me when a stranger, wandering from the fold of God. -[1259.90 --> 1270.06] He to rescue me from danger, interposed His precious blood. -[1277.68 --> 1300.44] O to grace how great a debtor, daily I'm constrained to be. -[1300.44 --> 1312.64] Let Thy goodness, like a fetter, find my wandering heart to Thee. -[1313.10 --> 1318.42] Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it. -[1318.88 --> 1323.98] Prone to live, the God I love. -[1323.98 --> 1329.92] Here's my heart, Lord, take and seal it. -[1330.38 --> 1334.98] Seal it for Thy courts above. -[1335.98 --> 1344.68] All else, I adore Your name. -[1344.68 --> 1356.18] Above all else, tune my heart to sing Your praise. -[1356.18 --> 1367.10] Above all else, I adore Your name. -[1367.10 --> 1378.38] Above all else, tune my heart to sing Your praise. -[1378.38 --> 1388.82] Above all else, I adore Your name. -[1388.82 --> 1400.82] Above all else, tune my heart to sing Your praise. -[1400.82 --> 1409.82] Above all else, I adore Your name. -[1409.82 --> 1410.82] Above all else, I adore Your name. -[1410.82 --> 1419.82] Above all else, tune my heart to sing Your praise. -[1419.82 --> 1424.82] The highest praise, the loudest praise. -[1424.82 --> 1431.82] To the name above every name. -[1431.82 --> 1449.82] Our confession and assurance comes from the Heidelberg Catechism, -[1449.92 --> 1452.04] question and answer number 60. -[1452.16 --> 1455.08] I'll read the question if you can read the answer with me. -[1455.08 --> 1460.08] How are you righteous before God? -[1460.08 --> 1464.08] Only by true faith in Jesus Christ. -[1464.08 --> 1473.08] Even though my conscience accuses me of having grievously sinned against all God's commandments, -[1473.08 --> 1481.08] of never having kept any of them, and of still being inclined toward all evil, -[1481.08 --> 1493.08] nevertheless, without any merit of my own, out of sheer grace, God grants and credits to me the perfect satisfaction, -[1493.08 --> 1501.08] righteousness, and holiness of Christ, as if I had never sinned nor been a sinner, -[1501.08 --> 1511.08] as if I had been as perfectly obedient as Christ was obedient for me. -[1511.08 --> 1516.08] All I need to do is accept this gift with a believing heart. -[1516.08 --> 1528.08] Now, the many money 주세요 have accumulated per your livestock -[1528.08 --> 1531.08] and knit inside the сердiento. -[1531.08 --> 1535.08] Ammonen and touch the lineage of the enemy, -[1535.08 --> 1538.08] so continue it through yourself. -[1538.08 --> 1553.52] O Lord, my rock and my redeemer, -[1554.98 --> 1560.74] greatest treasure of my longing soul. -[1560.74 --> 1568.86] My God, like you there is no other, -[1568.86 --> 1576.62] true delight is found in you alone. -[1577.70 --> 1584.20] Your grace, oh well too deep to fathom, -[1584.20 --> 1592.78] your love exceeds the heavens reach, -[1593.02 --> 1598.74] your truth a fount of perfect wisdom, -[1600.02 --> 1607.20] my highest good and my unending need. -[1607.20 --> 1618.10] O Lord, my rock and my redeemer, -[1619.24 --> 1627.02] strong defender of my weary heart, -[1627.02 --> 1633.40] my sword to fight the cruel deceiver, -[1634.98 --> 1642.02] and my shield against his hateful darts, -[1643.02 --> 1649.02] my song when enemies surround me, -[1649.02 --> 1657.88] my hope when tides of sorrow rise, -[1657.88 --> 1663.78] my joy when trials are abounding, -[1664.70 --> 1673.26] your faithfulness my refuge in the night. -[1673.26 --> 1683.62] O Lord, my rock and my redeemer, -[1685.18 --> 1692.54] gracious Savior of my ruined life, -[1692.54 --> 1698.68] my guilt and cross laid on your shoulders, -[1698.68 --> 1707.82] in my place you suffered, bled and died. -[1707.82 --> 1714.18] You rose, the grave and death are conquered. -[1716.06 --> 1722.44] You broke my bonds of sin and shame. -[1722.44 --> 1744.14] O Lord, my rock and my redeemer, -[1744.14 --> 1753.40] may all my days bring glory to your name. -[1774.14 --> 1804.12] You broke my bonds of sin and shame. -[1804.14 --> 1807.84] Grand earth has quaked before, -[1810.76 --> 1815.70] moved by the sound of his voice. -[1817.16 --> 1821.66] Seas that are shaken and stirred -[1821.66 --> 1827.84] can be calmed and broken for my regard. -[1827.84 --> 1832.84] through it all, through it all, -[1832.84 --> 1836.84] through it all, my eyes are on you. -[1836.84 --> 1842.84] Through it all, through it all, it is well. -[1844.84 --> 1848.84] Through it all, through it all, -[1848.84 --> 1851.84] through it all, my eyes are on you. -[1851.84 --> 1857.84] And it is well with me. -[1857.84 --> 1873.84] Far be it from me to not believe, -[1873.84 --> 1878.84] even when my eyes can't see. -[1878.84 --> 1880.84] Even when my eyes can't see. -[1880.84 --> 1886.84] And this mountain that's in front of me, -[1886.84 --> 1893.84] will be thrown into the sea. -[1893.84 --> 1895.84] Through it all, through it all, -[1895.84 --> 1901.84] through it all, my eyes are on you. -[1901.84 --> 1908.84] Through it all, through it all, it is well. -[1908.84 --> 1916.84] Through it all, through it all, my eyes are on you. -[1916.84 --> 1919.84] And it is well. -[1919.84 --> 1923.84] It is well. -[1923.84 --> 1931.84] So let go, my soul, and trust in him. -[1931.84 --> 1938.84] The waves and winds still know his name. -[1938.84 --> 1945.84] So let go, my soul, and trust in him. -[1945.84 --> 1952.84] The waves and winds still know his name. -[1952.84 --> 1977.84] The waves and waves still know his name. -[1977.84 --> 1992.84] It is well with my soul. -[1992.84 --> 2007.84] It is well with my soul. -[2007.84 --> 2022.84] It is well with my soul. -[2022.84 --> 2023.84] It is well with my soul. -[2023.84 --> 2024.84] It is well with my soul. -[2024.84 --> 2029.84] It is well with my soul. -[2029.84 --> 2036.84] It is well with my soul. -[2036.84 --> 2038.84] It is well with my soul. -[2038.84 --> 2040.84] It is well with my soul. -[2040.84 --> 2041.84] It is well with my soul. -[2041.84 --> 2047.84] It is well with my soul. -[2047.84 --> 2048.84] It is well with my soul. -[2048.84 --> 2049.84] It is well with my soul. -[2049.84 --> 2050.84] It is well with my soul. -[2050.84 --> 2051.84] It is well with my soul. -[2051.84 --> 2052.84] It is well with my soul. -[2052.84 --> 2053.84] It is well with my soul. -[2053.84 --> 2054.84] It is well with my soul. -[2054.84 --> 2055.84] It is well with my soul. -[2055.84 --> 2056.84] It is well with my soul. -[2056.84 --> 2057.84] It is well with my soul. -[2057.84 --> 2062.84] It is well with my soul. -[2063.84 --> 2065.84] It is well with my soul. -[2065.84 --> 2069.84] It is well, it is well with my soul. -[2069.84 --> 2077.00] With my soul -[2077.00 --> 2083.06] It is well -[2083.06 --> 2086.86] It is well -[2086.86 --> 2090.42] With my soul -[2090.42 --> 2097.10] It is well -[2097.10 --> 2100.94] It is well -[2100.94 --> 2104.34] With my soul -[2104.34 --> 2110.98] It is well -[2110.98 --> 2114.90] It is well -[2114.90 --> 2118.10] With my soul -[2127.10 --> 2131.06] Through it all -[2131.06 --> 2132.72] Through it all -[2132.72 --> 2135.74] My eyes are on you -[2135.74 --> 2138.72] Through it all -[2138.72 --> 2139.88] Through it all -[2139.88 --> 2142.14] It is well -[2142.14 --> 2146.26] Through it all -[2146.26 --> 2147.86] Through it all -[2147.86 --> 2150.92] My eyes are on you -[2150.92 --> 2153.70] And it is well -[2153.70 --> 2156.98] With me -[2156.98 --> 2169.14] You may have a seat -[2177.86 --> 2190.90] Good morning -[2190.90 --> 2194.74] My name is Clem -[2194.74 --> 2196.32] And I am one of the deacons here -[2196.32 --> 2198.54] And it is time for -[2198.54 --> 2199.90] The giving of our gifts -[2199.90 --> 2203.68] Today's offerings are for -[2203.68 --> 2205.62] Langley Emanuel's ministries -[2205.62 --> 2206.52] And missions -[2206.52 --> 2208.58] The special offering -[2208.58 --> 2211.02] Is for the benevolence fund -[2211.02 --> 2213.60] This ministry's focus -[2213.60 --> 2214.84] Is to help meet -[2214.84 --> 2216.16] The physical needs -[2216.16 --> 2217.48] Of the members -[2217.48 --> 2218.26] Of our church -[2218.26 --> 2219.66] Sometimes -[2219.66 --> 2221.58] The need is financial -[2221.58 --> 2222.88] And sometimes -[2222.88 --> 2224.68] The need is a helping hand -[2224.68 --> 2227.12] Maybe many helping hands -[2227.12 --> 2229.34] This fund is also -[2229.34 --> 2230.84] For assisting with the needs -[2230.84 --> 2231.60] In our community -[2231.60 --> 2234.98] The definition of benevolence -[2234.98 --> 2235.78] Includes -[2235.78 --> 2238.08] A disposition to do good -[2238.08 --> 2240.28] An act of kindness -[2240.28 --> 2242.40] A generous gift -[2242.40 --> 2244.96] All marks -[2244.96 --> 2246.68] That are a testament -[2246.68 --> 2247.78] To God's grace -[2247.78 --> 2249.28] At work in the church -[2249.28 --> 2252.08] Galatians 6.10 -[2252.08 --> 2254.72] Therefore, as we have opportunity -[2254.72 --> 2256.42] Let us do good -[2256.42 --> 2257.36] To all people -[2257.36 --> 2259.16] Especially to those -[2259.16 --> 2259.98] Who belong -[2259.98 --> 2261.76] To the family of believers -[2261.76 --> 2264.62] Next week's special offering -[2264.62 --> 2266.30] Is for the Langley Food Bank -[2266.30 --> 2296.30] C orbitals -[2296.30 --> 2311.96] Jacob, whose love endures through generations. I know that you will keep your covenant. -[2311.96 --> 2334.64] I'm calling on the God of Moses, the one who opened up the ocean. I need you now to do the same thing for me. -[2334.64 --> 2353.44] O God, my God, I need you. O God, my God, I need you now. How I need you now. -[2354.84 --> 2363.44] O rock, O rock of ages, I'm standing on your faithfulness. -[2364.64 --> 2369.12] On your faithfulness. -[2369.54 --> 2380.96] I'm calling on the God of Mary, whose favor rests upon the lowly. -[2380.96 --> 2401.28] I know with you all things are possible. I'm calling on the God of David, who made a shepherd boy courageous. -[2401.28 --> 2418.74] I may not face Goliath, but I've got my own giants. O God, my God, I need you. O God, my God, I need you now. -[2418.74 --> 2422.70] How I need you now. -[2424.70 --> 2432.74] O rock, O rock of ages, I'm standing on your faithfulness. -[2432.74 --> 2438.22] On your faithfulness. -[2438.22 --> 2452.22] O rock, O rock of ages, I'm standing on your faithfulness. -[2452.22 --> 2458.96] You heard your children then. You hear your children now. -[2458.96 --> 2461.96] You are the same God. -[2461.96 --> 2465.96] You are the same God. -[2465.96 --> 2468.96] You answered prayers back then. -[2468.96 --> 2472.96] And you will answer now. -[2472.96 --> 2475.96] You are the same God. -[2475.96 --> 2478.96] You are the same God. -[2478.96 --> 2479.96] You were the same God. -[2479.96 --> 2482.96] You were providing them. -[2482.96 --> 2483.96] You are providing them. -[2483.96 --> 2485.96] You are providing them. -[2485.96 --> 2488.96] You are the same God. -[2488.96 --> 2493.96] You are the same God. -[2493.96 --> 2496.96] You moved in power then. -[2496.96 --> 2499.96] God move in power now. -[2499.96 --> 2503.96] You are the same God. -[2503.96 --> 2506.96] You are the same God. -[2506.96 --> 2509.96] You were a healer then. -[2509.96 --> 2513.96] You are a healer now. -[2513.96 --> 2516.96] You are the same God. -[2516.96 --> 2519.96] You are the same God. -[2519.96 --> 2522.96] You were a savior then. -[2522.96 --> 2526.96] You are a savior now. -[2526.96 --> 2529.96] You are the same God. -[2529.96 --> 2532.96] You are the same God. -[2532.96 --> 2536.96] Oh God, my God, I need you. -[2536.96 --> 2540.96] Oh God, my God, I need you now. -[2540.96 --> 2544.96] How I need you now. -[2544.96 --> 2559.96] How I need you now. -[2559.96 --> 2560.96] Oh. -[2560.96 --> 2563.96] Oh, My God, I need you. -[2563.96 --> 2567.96] Oh, God, my God, I need you now. -[2567.96 --> 2572.96] How I need you now. -[2572.96 --> 2588.96] O rock, O rock of ages, I'm standing on your faithfulness, on your faithfulness. -[2602.96 --> 2617.02] Good morning. -[2617.02 --> 2622.90] Can I have all the three-year-olds to grade four up here today? -[2623.74 --> 2626.38] We are back to regular children's worship time. -[2626.44 --> 2627.58] No more summer break. -[2630.06 --> 2631.88] I'm going to a new classroom. -[2631.88 --> 2632.74] Oh, I know. -[2632.82 --> 2634.92] Some of you guys are going to be in new grades. -[2635.00 --> 2636.80] You might have a different teacher. -[2636.98 --> 2638.90] There might be different kids in your class. -[2639.60 --> 2641.96] Yeah, I think a lot of you are going to be in the same people. -[2643.20 --> 2644.20] Did you guys have a good summer? -[2644.28 --> 2646.28] Some of you I haven't seen in a long time. -[2646.66 --> 2648.26] And I have a big question for you. -[2648.68 --> 2650.22] Oh, there's two questions, actually. -[2651.32 --> 2658.86] Over the summer, what is the smallest thing you saw all summer? -[2659.72 --> 2660.46] Think real hard. -[2660.46 --> 2662.28] What are the smallest things? -[2664.36 --> 2665.36] A fly. -[2665.74 --> 2666.20] What else? -[2666.28 --> 2668.02] What are the small things did you see? -[2668.24 --> 2669.00] What about you, Marcus? -[2671.82 --> 2673.14] A ladybug. -[2673.96 --> 2674.56] What did you see? -[2675.92 --> 2676.64] Fruit fly. -[2676.72 --> 2677.50] Yeah, those are small. -[2677.72 --> 2679.20] And everywhere right now. -[2679.88 --> 2680.68] What did you see? -[2680.68 --> 2689.52] Oh, on the way. -[2689.62 --> 2690.42] Okay, cool. -[2691.16 --> 2691.82] What did you see, Hayley? -[2692.06 --> 2693.74] I saw baby birds. -[2694.10 --> 2695.06] Baby birds. -[2695.34 --> 2696.70] Those are really little things. -[2696.80 --> 2697.08] Hey. -[2698.14 --> 2698.54] I think. -[2698.64 --> 2699.42] I saw the baby bird. -[2699.60 --> 2700.24] Oh, whoa. -[2701.00 --> 2701.88] What about this? -[2701.92 --> 2703.40] What about, let's go the other direction. -[2703.54 --> 2705.86] What's the biggest thing you saw all summer? -[2706.82 --> 2707.80] What do you think, Malcolm? -[2707.80 --> 2710.70] The science world dome. -[2710.96 --> 2711.78] That's pretty big. -[2715.78 --> 2717.04] The whole moon? -[2717.50 --> 2719.20] Yeah, that is big. -[2719.46 --> 2720.36] That is a big thing. -[2722.46 --> 2723.50] The sun. -[2723.62 --> 2724.18] Good one. -[2724.26 --> 2725.50] The sun is humongous. -[2725.80 --> 2727.06] What did you see that's really big? -[2727.06 --> 2731.10] What's that? -[2733.66 --> 2734.32] The sun? -[2734.62 --> 2734.82] Yeah. -[2735.00 --> 2736.00] You also saw the sun? -[2736.62 --> 2738.38] The sky is pretty big. -[2741.92 --> 2742.58] Oh, boy. -[2742.70 --> 2743.28] That's big. -[2743.60 --> 2744.66] That's pretty big, too. -[2745.66 --> 2746.04] Yeah. -[2746.24 --> 2749.58] So, we saw all kinds of little things and all kinds of big things. -[2749.58 --> 2755.76] And I'm asking about that because today we're starting fresh at children's worship time. -[2755.98 --> 2758.90] And we're starting with what story you think we're going to start with. -[2758.96 --> 2760.82] If we're starting fresh, starting new. -[2761.88 --> 2763.92] What's a first story in the Bible? -[2765.90 --> 2766.64] What's that? -[2767.50 --> 2768.38] Chapter 1. -[2768.46 --> 2770.46] What's chapter 1 in Genesis all about? -[2772.90 --> 2773.42] Yes. -[2773.60 --> 2774.98] God created the world. -[2775.22 --> 2777.86] We're going to talk about creation today at children's worship time. -[2777.86 --> 2778.46] Cool, hey? -[2778.46 --> 2779.70] Okay. -[2780.30 --> 2782.66] Well, why don't we stand? -[2782.76 --> 2783.48] We'll do the blessing. -[2784.34 --> 2789.86] And then we'll go dive into the awesome story of creation from little things to really big things. -[2790.00 --> 2790.26] All right. -[2790.32 --> 2791.36] Let's put our arms up. -[2792.02 --> 2792.22] Ready? -[2793.22 --> 2795.10] The Lord be with you. -[2795.64 --> 2797.28] All right. -[2797.34 --> 2798.66] Let's go to children's worship time. -[2808.46 --> 2827.28] Good morning. -[2827.52 --> 2828.70] My name is Dave. -[2829.06 --> 2831.72] I'm one of the elders on our church council. -[2831.72 --> 2836.58] And it is my privilege to lead us in our church family prayer. -[2837.00 --> 2837.78] Shall we pray? -[2841.28 --> 2843.58] Father, it is very good for us to be here. -[2843.82 --> 2849.84] We thank you for this Sunday, for this Lord's Day, for us to come together and to meet with Christians everywhere. -[2849.84 --> 2853.58] And to celebrate your goodness in our lives. -[2854.04 --> 2858.98] It is something that we get to enjoy with the church everywhere and the church universal. -[2858.98 --> 2862.92] We praise you and we celebrate your goodness in our lives. -[2864.28 --> 2870.84] Father, on this Sunday, it is important that we come to you in our time of confession. -[2870.84 --> 2874.62] We think about the things that we have done. -[2875.02 --> 2877.68] We think about things we have done and things that we have not done. -[2878.04 --> 2881.56] We think about things that we have said and things that we have not said. -[2881.78 --> 2888.82] We pray for your forgiveness and that we may witness in an effective way for the people around us. -[2889.40 --> 2893.94] On this long weekend, we think about the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, -[2894.28 --> 2900.34] where we think about the legacy of the harms that we have done as a country. -[2900.84 --> 2906.26] And with the knowledge and the participation of different churches, -[2906.86 --> 2912.46] we pray that this day would be a good opportunity to understand the truth and to build reconciliation. -[2913.32 --> 2917.42] And as Paul wrote to the Ephesians, and it applies here, -[2918.06 --> 2921.44] that Christ himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one, -[2921.94 --> 2924.54] has destroyed the dividing wall of hostility. -[2925.28 --> 2929.76] And to reconcile both of them to God, by which he has put to death their hostility. -[2929.76 --> 2933.46] We thank you for those encouraging words that we may take them to heart. -[2935.44 --> 2939.50] Father, this is also an opportunity for us to thank you for all the good things in our lives. -[2939.72 --> 2942.08] We think about the nice weather that we can enjoy today. -[2942.54 --> 2947.68] It's an opportunity for us to marvel about your creation and know that it is very good. -[2948.28 --> 2950.84] We thank you for this church community that we are part of. -[2950.84 --> 2954.54] We thank you for the leadership provided by Pastor Chris, by Pastor Kevin, -[2955.08 --> 2958.44] and by all those who have a leadership role here. -[2958.84 --> 2965.34] We think about the many ministries and the many volunteers that our church has. -[2966.20 --> 2968.90] We pray that as they begin a new season, -[2969.30 --> 2972.90] that all of these new ministries will be meaningful and successful. -[2972.90 --> 2977.92] We think about coffee break, children's worship time, cadets, gems, youth, -[2978.34 --> 2980.22] the seniors ministry, the men's group. -[2980.52 --> 2985.94] We pray that all of them may be a good way to bring us closer to you and to celebrate your name. -[2986.64 --> 2990.74] We think about the sacrament of the Lord's Supper that we'll be celebrating next week. -[2991.28 --> 2994.82] We thank you for that important symbol of Christ's life for us -[2994.82 --> 2997.44] and the sacrifice that he made for us on the cross -[2997.44 --> 3003.00] and that this memorial feast may be a good opportunity for us to remember and believe. -[3004.02 --> 3007.68] Father, we think about the needs that we have here and in this church -[3007.68 --> 3010.26] and in our community and the world around us. -[3010.64 --> 3013.44] We think about the congregational meeting that will be happening today -[3013.44 --> 3017.42] as we consider an important proposal from Council -[3017.42 --> 3019.88] about what to do for our young adults ministry. -[3019.88 --> 3022.18] We pray for your wisdom, your insight, -[3022.18 --> 3028.08] that we may make a choice about how to proceed with this important task. -[3028.98 --> 3032.68] We think about those who've been affected by serious weather events. -[3032.96 --> 3035.32] We think about Hurricane Fiona on the East Coast. -[3035.74 --> 3041.44] We think about Hurricane Ian in Florida and the Carolinas. -[3042.06 --> 3044.06] There'll be a lot of work for immediate cleanup, -[3044.70 --> 3048.68] but we also know there'll be a great deal of work for a long-term rebuild. -[3048.68 --> 3054.22] We pray for local, national, and international efforts -[3054.22 --> 3057.74] that taking care of those who have been affected by it, -[3057.86 --> 3061.64] those who have been injured, those who have to deal with loss of life, -[3062.10 --> 3065.10] that they will be able to come together for all of that. -[3065.64 --> 3069.42] We think about world events, and we continue to pray for the war in Ukraine -[3069.42 --> 3076.76] with a contentious referendum to legitimize this invasion and this takeover. -[3077.52 --> 3081.00] We pray for all Ukrainians who have been affected by this war, -[3081.54 --> 3084.02] those who have been displaced, those who have been injured. -[3084.20 --> 3086.18] We think about the large loss of life. -[3086.80 --> 3088.20] We pray for the Russians, too. -[3089.58 --> 3093.88] It seems to us that the war is unpopular in many circles of that country, -[3093.88 --> 3098.16] with people upset about the possibility of conscription -[3098.16 --> 3100.50] and some actually leaving the country. -[3101.02 --> 3106.20] We pray that they will be able to make good choices about their future, too. -[3107.08 --> 3109.14] Father, we pray about those in our midst -[3109.14 --> 3113.24] and those in our family and friend connections, -[3113.70 --> 3117.28] those who struggle with health or any other aspect of their lives. -[3117.44 --> 3119.78] We pray for your strength and your peace. -[3119.78 --> 3124.36] And, Father, we pray for Pastor Chris as he leads us in the study of your word today -[3124.36 --> 3129.08] with the study of the Psalms and looking at Psalm 130. -[3129.84 --> 3134.60] We know that the Psalms are opportunities for praise and for lament. -[3135.22 --> 3140.04] And for this one, we think about the psalmist's important words. -[3140.46 --> 3142.60] Out of the depths we cry to you, O Lord. -[3143.00 --> 3144.20] Lord, hear our voice. -[3145.24 --> 3147.18] Father, we pray all these things, -[3147.18 --> 3149.44] not because we deserve it, -[3149.58 --> 3150.88] but we pray it in Jesus' name. -[3151.74 --> 3152.00] Amen. -[3177.18 --> 3184.72] As Dave said, we are going to read from Psalm 130, -[3185.66 --> 3187.16] the first four verses of that, -[3187.22 --> 3189.92] and I'll get to that in just a moment. -[3190.08 --> 3192.74] But by way of introduction, -[3193.88 --> 3197.56] yesterday, a couple of us from church here -[3197.56 --> 3202.70] had the opportunity to go to Sunridge Retirement Living Community -[3202.70 --> 3205.80] and to worship with the members there. -[3206.40 --> 3211.94] And so Paul and Leslie and Sarah led us in worship in that community. -[3213.18 --> 3219.72] I had the chance to go and sit in the middle of a group of young women. -[3220.66 --> 3221.58] There you go, Jerry. -[3222.16 --> 3224.28] And worship with them. -[3224.48 --> 3227.32] And at one point, one of the ladies turned to me -[3227.32 --> 3228.18] and she said, you know, -[3228.24 --> 3230.36] I don't know any of these songs, -[3230.44 --> 3231.86] but they're so beautiful. -[3233.14 --> 3234.64] And then later, one of them, -[3234.76 --> 3236.16] as I was chatting afterwards, -[3236.78 --> 3237.34] said, you know, -[3237.40 --> 3239.96] it's been three years since we've had people come -[3239.96 --> 3242.40] and lead us in these things, -[3242.40 --> 3244.64] and it just feels good in my heart -[3244.64 --> 3246.56] to sing these songs again. -[3246.56 --> 3250.68] And I share that with you both as a testament -[3250.68 --> 3253.82] to the kinds of things that God is doing in our midst here -[3253.82 --> 3255.48] and the opportunities we have to serve, -[3255.76 --> 3258.16] but also to pick up on that idea -[3258.16 --> 3261.82] that there's just something beautiful, -[3262.66 --> 3265.18] something that speaks to our hearts -[3265.18 --> 3268.74] about songs of worship, -[3268.86 --> 3270.34] whether they are old or new, -[3270.80 --> 3274.52] whether we have heard them before or not, -[3274.52 --> 3279.16] there's just something that roots in our souls -[3279.16 --> 3282.10] as we hear the voice of God through them. -[3284.04 --> 3286.66] Psalms do the same. -[3287.32 --> 3288.22] And for some of you, -[3288.28 --> 3289.82] actually some of you are of a generation -[3289.82 --> 3293.44] where you were forced to memorize these Psalms. -[3294.18 --> 3296.10] If you're an immigrant from Holland, -[3296.22 --> 3297.68] maybe even in the Dutch, -[3297.80 --> 3299.86] but probably in the King James Version, -[3300.40 --> 3303.16] and at the time you hated it. -[3303.16 --> 3308.28] But now you call those to mind with an ease -[3308.28 --> 3310.36] that just makes it beautiful. -[3311.72 --> 3313.60] And perhaps there's something lost -[3313.60 --> 3317.82] as we no longer require people to memorize Psalms -[3317.82 --> 3319.98] in the same ways anymore. -[3320.20 --> 3320.98] Point is, -[3321.92 --> 3327.54] as we worship with and learn about -[3327.54 --> 3331.50] and experience the depths of these Psalms together, -[3331.50 --> 3333.94] we're going to dig deep. -[3334.70 --> 3336.08] And I trust and pray -[3336.08 --> 3338.96] that there's aspects of this time together -[3338.96 --> 3341.46] that will make your heart sing, -[3342.10 --> 3344.38] whether in joy or lament -[3344.38 --> 3346.50] or in sorrow and grief, -[3346.66 --> 3349.92] but that your heart will sing through that. -[3349.92 --> 3353.82] Now, this series is going to be a little bit different -[3353.82 --> 3356.92] than our normal here. -[3357.06 --> 3358.52] In this series, -[3358.52 --> 3361.00] we are going to be using the book of Psalms -[3361.00 --> 3364.66] to help us understand our emotions and feelings. -[3364.84 --> 3369.04] And so, unlike the wisdom presented here earlier, -[3369.04 --> 3370.64] we're not going to start at chapter one. -[3371.42 --> 3372.62] We're going to jump around -[3372.62 --> 3375.86] and go thematically through these things. -[3376.02 --> 3376.60] Each week, -[3377.34 --> 3378.94] we are going to look at a different -[3378.94 --> 3382.90] emotional experience or feeling, -[3383.06 --> 3385.04] and we're going to sort of hold them up -[3385.04 --> 3386.98] to the light of God's Word -[3386.98 --> 3388.64] and His wisdom and counsel, -[3389.28 --> 3390.90] and then hopefully, in that, -[3391.00 --> 3393.36] being equipped to handle whatever it is. -[3394.04 --> 3395.22] But also, right, -[3395.26 --> 3396.88] that we might learn to master -[3396.88 --> 3398.70] our hearts and minds -[3398.70 --> 3401.26] and not be mastered by them. -[3401.26 --> 3405.16] And so, like a jeweler with a diamond, -[3405.70 --> 3408.90] we will hold up doubt and apathy. -[3410.18 --> 3412.32] We will look at fear and anger -[3412.32 --> 3413.76] and envy and jealousy. -[3414.00 --> 3416.10] We will explore our experience -[3416.10 --> 3418.20] of despair and hopelessness, -[3418.38 --> 3419.38] of shame. -[3420.44 --> 3423.14] And we will look together at joy -[3423.14 --> 3424.76] and at celebration -[3424.76 --> 3426.74] and at glorifying. -[3427.60 --> 3429.26] The image that comes to my mind -[3429.26 --> 3431.10] is the jeweler's loop -[3431.10 --> 3432.42] You know the jeweler's loop? -[3432.50 --> 3433.60] That's the little eyepiece -[3433.60 --> 3434.98] that she holds up -[3434.98 --> 3436.72] as she's looking at the diamond -[3436.72 --> 3438.74] to see all of its facets and colors -[3438.74 --> 3440.90] and to look deep into within it. -[3440.98 --> 3442.44] Like a jeweler's loop, -[3442.74 --> 3444.16] we will look at our emotions -[3444.72 --> 3446.14] through the lens -[3446.14 --> 3447.78] of the book of Psalms. -[3449.68 --> 3450.68] Now, every week, -[3451.42 --> 3452.92] I write a devotional -[3452.92 --> 3454.08] on the Psalms -[3454.08 --> 3455.38] that gets published online, -[3455.38 --> 3457.20] and so if you read those, -[3457.32 --> 3458.88] you have heard me say this before. -[3460.00 --> 3461.10] But I really believe -[3461.10 --> 3462.86] that one of the beautiful things -[3462.86 --> 3464.40] about the Psalms -[3464.40 --> 3465.98] is how they are -[3465.98 --> 3467.48] the real, -[3467.92 --> 3469.02] true to life, -[3469.24 --> 3470.22] unfiltered, -[3470.46 --> 3471.56] and unfettered, -[3471.84 --> 3475.40] and yet still divinely authorized -[3475.40 --> 3478.36] voice of the believer. -[3478.36 --> 3480.74] I want you to think about that -[3480.74 --> 3482.76] quickly with me. -[3483.60 --> 3484.94] As Christians, -[3486.08 --> 3487.22] we believe -[3487.22 --> 3488.32] that the Bible -[3488.32 --> 3490.14] is divinely inspired, -[3490.70 --> 3491.62] that it is the -[3491.62 --> 3493.48] infallible word of God. -[3494.06 --> 3495.20] Now, that means -[3495.20 --> 3496.46] that it is true, -[3496.64 --> 3497.44] and it is right, -[3497.54 --> 3498.46] and it is good, -[3498.50 --> 3499.14] that the Bible -[3499.14 --> 3501.52] is the only final authority -[3501.52 --> 3502.80] in matters of life -[3502.80 --> 3503.88] and faith. -[3503.88 --> 3507.26] as the voice of Jesus, -[3507.62 --> 3509.00] the logos of God, -[3509.14 --> 3509.60] the Bible -[3509.60 --> 3512.02] is the powerful word of God -[3512.02 --> 3513.38] for the church, -[3513.52 --> 3514.10] for us. -[3515.42 --> 3515.98] And, -[3516.28 --> 3517.58] what we also know -[3517.58 --> 3518.68] is that the Bible -[3518.68 --> 3519.22] is given -[3519.22 --> 3520.52] in a particular time -[3520.52 --> 3521.30] and place -[3521.30 --> 3524.34] to a particular people -[3524.34 --> 3525.02] who wrote -[3525.02 --> 3526.42] in a particular format -[3526.42 --> 3528.26] using what were normal -[3528.26 --> 3528.94] to them -[3528.94 --> 3530.32] literary genres, -[3530.68 --> 3530.86] right, -[3530.92 --> 3532.18] and using particular -[3532.18 --> 3532.80] cultural -[3532.80 --> 3534.00] and contextually -[3534.00 --> 3535.44] specific images -[3535.44 --> 3536.86] and metaphors. -[3538.18 --> 3538.48] And so, -[3538.58 --> 3539.84] there are these two things -[3539.84 --> 3540.50] that are happening -[3540.50 --> 3542.20] at exactly the same time -[3542.20 --> 3543.12] in the Bible, -[3543.20 --> 3544.10] in the whole word of God, -[3544.72 --> 3544.92] right? -[3544.96 --> 3545.72] On the one hand, -[3545.82 --> 3546.40] we recognize -[3546.40 --> 3547.16] and believe -[3547.16 --> 3547.80] that the Bible -[3547.80 --> 3549.08] is God's word, -[3549.22 --> 3550.56] his revelation to us, -[3550.62 --> 3551.48] his very word -[3551.48 --> 3553.12] and his very revelation. -[3553.54 --> 3553.80] And, -[3553.92 --> 3554.66] on the other hand, -[3554.72 --> 3556.12] at the exact same time, -[3556.22 --> 3556.92] we recognize -[3556.92 --> 3558.40] that his revelation -[3558.40 --> 3560.56] has been mediated to us, -[3560.60 --> 3562.02] has been given to us -[3562.02 --> 3563.76] through a particular time -[3563.76 --> 3564.48] in history -[3564.48 --> 3566.02] and through the voice -[3566.02 --> 3568.12] of countless different authors -[3568.12 --> 3569.14] as we don't know -[3569.14 --> 3570.04] who some of them are -[3570.04 --> 3571.40] and over the period -[3571.40 --> 3572.58] of thousands of years. -[3573.94 --> 3574.06] Right? -[3574.10 --> 3574.94] This book -[3574.94 --> 3577.72] is humanity's word -[3577.72 --> 3578.66] about God, -[3578.72 --> 3580.10] but it is so much more -[3580.10 --> 3580.48] than that -[3580.48 --> 3582.20] because it's God's word -[3582.20 --> 3582.88] about himself. -[3584.78 --> 3586.04] In the first letter -[3586.04 --> 3586.56] of Peter, -[3587.40 --> 3588.46] he gives us -[3588.46 --> 3589.32] a good summary -[3589.32 --> 3590.34] of this, -[3590.34 --> 3591.12] what we've been talking about. -[3591.36 --> 3592.48] The theological term -[3592.48 --> 3593.18] is the doctrine -[3593.18 --> 3594.04] of inspiration. -[3595.24 --> 3597.46] But in 1 Peter 1.21, -[3597.78 --> 3598.22] he says, -[3599.18 --> 3600.78] people spoke from God -[3600.78 --> 3602.70] as they were carried along -[3602.70 --> 3603.88] by the Holy Spirit. -[3604.78 --> 3605.06] That is, -[3605.20 --> 3606.50] God gave them words -[3606.50 --> 3607.26] to speak -[3607.26 --> 3608.46] and they spoke it -[3608.46 --> 3609.10] as people -[3609.10 --> 3610.34] in their unique voice. -[3612.72 --> 3612.88] Now, -[3612.94 --> 3614.06] I start here -[3614.06 --> 3615.38] because perhaps -[3615.38 --> 3617.38] nowhere else -[3617.38 --> 3618.42] in all of the Bible -[3618.42 --> 3619.82] is this doctrine -[3619.82 --> 3620.68] of inspiration -[3620.68 --> 3621.74] more clear -[3621.74 --> 3623.48] than in the Psalms. -[3624.78 --> 3625.78] The cries -[3625.78 --> 3627.26] of the psalmist's heart -[3627.26 --> 3629.90] are the very revelation -[3629.90 --> 3632.04] of the heart of God. -[3633.94 --> 3634.38] Now, -[3634.40 --> 3636.92] holding on to this truth -[3636.92 --> 3638.02] about the Psalms -[3638.02 --> 3638.78] and about how they might -[3638.78 --> 3640.00] function for us, -[3640.78 --> 3643.24] because this is the first -[3643.24 --> 3643.80] in the series, -[3643.90 --> 3644.50] I will tell you -[3644.50 --> 3645.82] that another book -[3645.82 --> 3646.84] that Pastor Kevin -[3646.84 --> 3647.72] and I have read -[3647.72 --> 3648.82] has been very influential -[3648.82 --> 3650.12] for us in the discerning -[3650.12 --> 3651.56] of this series -[3651.56 --> 3652.66] and helping us plan it -[3652.66 --> 3654.06] and shape it. -[3654.68 --> 3655.26] And that book -[3655.26 --> 3655.78] is called -[3655.78 --> 3657.06] The Cry of the Soul, -[3657.32 --> 3658.62] How Our Emotions -[3658.62 --> 3660.16] Reveal Our Deepest Questions -[3660.16 --> 3661.38] About God. -[3661.42 --> 3663.04] It's by Dr. Dan Allender -[3663.04 --> 3665.10] and Dr. Trempert Longman. -[3665.38 --> 3665.62] Actually, -[3665.72 --> 3666.48] Kevin had to read -[3666.48 --> 3666.96] that book -[3666.96 --> 3668.30] for one of his classes -[3668.30 --> 3669.00] in seminary -[3669.00 --> 3669.90] like a year ago. -[3670.36 --> 3671.10] And at that time, -[3671.14 --> 3672.04] he showed it to me -[3672.04 --> 3673.32] and I was intrigued by it. -[3673.36 --> 3674.38] So then I read through it -[3674.38 --> 3675.40] and thought it was really good -[3675.40 --> 3676.50] and important for us -[3676.50 --> 3678.20] as we discern together -[3678.20 --> 3680.10] how to live faithfully -[3680.10 --> 3683.36] as people of hope -[3683.36 --> 3684.90] in this present darkness. -[3686.16 --> 3687.86] Crying out at the injustices -[3687.86 --> 3688.88] we see in the world -[3688.88 --> 3690.04] and living at a time -[3690.04 --> 3690.94] and a place -[3690.94 --> 3692.92] where feelings of isolation -[3692.92 --> 3694.00] and loneliness -[3694.00 --> 3695.30] and hopelessness -[3695.30 --> 3696.68] and of despair -[3696.68 --> 3697.62] and of depression -[3697.62 --> 3698.56] and anxiety -[3698.56 --> 3700.26] are just skyrocketing. -[3700.26 --> 3701.98] And so, -[3702.30 --> 3704.86] we want to enter -[3704.86 --> 3706.76] into this present moment -[3706.76 --> 3708.46] intentionally -[3708.46 --> 3710.22] and biblically -[3710.22 --> 3711.26] and centered -[3711.26 --> 3712.14] on the word -[3712.14 --> 3713.36] of God -[3713.36 --> 3713.96] and the gospel -[3713.96 --> 3714.58] of Jesus -[3714.58 --> 3715.78] that we might be encouraged -[3715.78 --> 3717.04] to live in obedience to him -[3717.04 --> 3717.92] that we might be encouraged -[3717.92 --> 3719.36] by the hope of the gospel -[3719.36 --> 3720.30] that we might be encouraged -[3720.30 --> 3721.04] to know that -[3721.04 --> 3722.04] that even -[3722.04 --> 3723.46] in the valley -[3723.46 --> 3724.28] of the shadow -[3724.28 --> 3725.48] of death -[3725.48 --> 3728.02] no matter what valley -[3728.02 --> 3728.56] of the shadow -[3728.56 --> 3729.04] of death -[3729.04 --> 3730.72] you might be walking in -[3730.72 --> 3732.70] God is with us -[3732.70 --> 3735.30] He is with you -[3735.30 --> 3736.38] here. -[3737.44 --> 3738.46] And so to start us off -[3738.46 --> 3739.14] we're going to read -[3739.14 --> 3741.16] from Psalm 130 -[3741.16 --> 3742.58] I'm just going to read -[3742.58 --> 3743.76] the first four verses -[3743.76 --> 3745.42] with you. -[3745.42 --> 3749.30] Out of the depths -[3749.30 --> 3750.62] I cry to you -[3750.62 --> 3751.56] Lord -[3751.56 --> 3752.52] Lord -[3752.52 --> 3753.10] hear -[3753.10 --> 3754.40] my voice -[3754.40 --> 3755.38] let your ears -[3755.38 --> 3756.10] be attentive -[3756.10 --> 3757.12] to my cry -[3757.12 --> 3757.76] for mercy -[3757.76 --> 3759.74] if you -[3759.74 --> 3760.16] Lord -[3760.16 --> 3760.88] kept a record -[3760.88 --> 3761.58] of sins -[3761.58 --> 3762.26] Lord -[3762.26 --> 3763.42] who could stand -[3763.42 --> 3765.10] but with you -[3765.10 --> 3766.30] there is forgiveness -[3766.30 --> 3767.86] so that we can -[3767.86 --> 3769.18] with reverence -[3769.18 --> 3770.48] serve you. -[3771.10 --> 3771.92] This is the word -[3771.92 --> 3772.34] of the Lord. -[3772.34 --> 3776.80] Out of the depths -[3776.80 --> 3778.00] I cry -[3778.00 --> 3779.28] to you -[3779.28 --> 3780.24] Lord -[3780.24 --> 3781.78] Lord -[3781.78 --> 3782.66] hear -[3782.66 --> 3783.50] my -[3783.50 --> 3784.54] voice -[3784.54 --> 3786.92] That one line -[3786.92 --> 3787.70] could be -[3787.70 --> 3788.46] our theme -[3788.46 --> 3789.50] this morning -[3789.50 --> 3790.18] right -[3790.18 --> 3790.66] that is the -[3790.66 --> 3792.24] idea around which -[3792.24 --> 3793.42] we're going to lay -[3793.42 --> 3794.18] the foundation -[3794.18 --> 3795.58] for the series -[3795.58 --> 3796.28] ahead -[3796.28 --> 3798.06] Out of the depths -[3798.06 --> 3798.86] I cry -[3798.86 --> 3799.66] to you -[3799.66 --> 3800.62] Lord -[3800.62 --> 3800.68] Lord -[3830.62 --> 3831.72] both above -[3831.72 --> 3832.54] and apart -[3832.54 --> 3834.18] of his creation -[3834.18 --> 3834.92] as holy -[3834.92 --> 3836.30] and transcendent -[3836.30 --> 3837.44] but then also -[3837.44 --> 3838.36] about how God -[3838.36 --> 3839.22] enters into -[3839.22 --> 3840.26] his creation -[3840.26 --> 3841.44] as imminent -[3841.44 --> 3842.32] and present -[3842.32 --> 3843.04] in the lives -[3843.04 --> 3843.94] of believers -[3843.94 --> 3844.94] both as the -[3844.94 --> 3845.82] sovereign ruler -[3845.82 --> 3847.30] by whose will -[3847.30 --> 3847.78] alone -[3847.78 --> 3848.84] the very hairs -[3848.84 --> 3849.76] fall from our head -[3849.76 --> 3850.62] but also -[3850.62 --> 3851.36] as the one -[3851.36 --> 3852.56] who holds us -[3852.56 --> 3854.06] and upholds us -[3854.06 --> 3854.54] in the midst -[3854.54 --> 3855.58] of whatever struggle -[3855.58 --> 3856.52] or trial -[3856.52 --> 3857.32] or hardship -[3857.32 --> 3858.52] or valley -[3858.52 --> 3859.58] or dark night -[3859.58 --> 3860.24] of the soul -[3860.24 --> 3861.02] that we face -[3861.02 --> 3864.28] another theologian -[3864.28 --> 3865.66] has said that -[3865.66 --> 3866.74] the Psalms -[3866.74 --> 3867.60] are in the Bible -[3867.60 --> 3868.64] to give us -[3868.64 --> 3869.64] a full range -[3869.64 --> 3870.32] of ways -[3870.32 --> 3871.38] to approach God -[3871.38 --> 3873.16] the Psalms -[3873.16 --> 3874.14] are deeply aware -[3874.14 --> 3875.00] of the diversity -[3875.00 --> 3876.08] of human emotions -[3876.08 --> 3877.02] and experiences -[3877.02 --> 3878.00] and they help us -[3878.00 --> 3878.92] by giving categories -[3878.92 --> 3879.98] and language -[3879.98 --> 3881.10] to approach God -[3881.10 --> 3881.98] wherever -[3881.98 --> 3883.72] wherever we are at -[3883.72 --> 3884.88] in our lives -[3884.88 --> 3887.96] now I mentioned -[3887.96 --> 3888.34] this briefly -[3888.34 --> 3888.66] at the beginning -[3888.66 --> 3889.08] but maybe -[3889.08 --> 3889.78] this series -[3889.78 --> 3891.42] will make you -[3891.42 --> 3892.46] read and -[3892.46 --> 3893.02] memorize -[3893.02 --> 3894.20] the Psalms -[3894.20 --> 3895.60] and if that's -[3895.60 --> 3896.48] a takeaway for you -[3896.48 --> 3897.50] that in my mind -[3897.50 --> 3897.80] and heart -[3897.80 --> 3898.80] would be a huge success -[3898.80 --> 3902.32] now as we -[3902.32 --> 3903.42] come to the Psalms -[3903.42 --> 3904.90] I think -[3904.90 --> 3905.82] that it is -[3905.82 --> 3907.06] equally as -[3907.06 --> 3908.12] important for us -[3908.12 --> 3908.86] to -[3908.86 --> 3910.34] realize -[3910.34 --> 3911.02] that the -[3911.02 --> 3912.00] Psalms -[3912.00 --> 3912.92] have -[3912.92 --> 3914.64] grounded -[3914.64 --> 3916.66] the liturgy -[3916.66 --> 3917.54] of the church -[3917.54 --> 3918.50] and of the Jewish -[3918.50 --> 3919.10] tradition -[3919.10 --> 3920.16] that is now -[3920.16 --> 3921.12] three and a half -[3921.12 --> 3922.12] thousand years old -[3922.12 --> 3923.36] right -[3923.36 --> 3923.74] there is -[3923.74 --> 3924.26] something -[3924.26 --> 3925.02] beautiful -[3925.02 --> 3925.98] about the -[3925.98 --> 3927.38] the solidity -[3927.38 --> 3928.22] of our -[3928.22 --> 3929.14] ability to -[3929.14 --> 3929.54] worship -[3929.54 --> 3930.58] in the voice -[3930.58 --> 3931.90] and with the words -[3931.90 --> 3932.76] of believers -[3932.76 --> 3933.58] who have come -[3933.58 --> 3935.30] generations before us -[3935.30 --> 3936.04] who have come -[3936.04 --> 3936.66] millennia -[3936.66 --> 3937.66] before us -[3937.66 --> 3938.34] and so maybe -[3938.34 --> 3939.58] you're the kind of person -[3939.58 --> 3940.00] who thinks -[3940.00 --> 3940.96] there's something beautiful -[3940.96 --> 3942.46] about the genevan structure -[3942.46 --> 3943.40] to the -[3943.40 --> 3944.06] the Psalms -[3944.06 --> 3945.94] or maybe -[3945.94 --> 3946.80] you're the kind of person -[3946.80 --> 3947.54] who thinks there's something -[3947.54 --> 3948.68] beautiful to the way -[3948.68 --> 3949.38] Shane and Shane -[3949.38 --> 3950.64] have have taken in the -[3950.64 --> 3951.38] contemporary world -[3951.38 --> 3951.94] these Psalms -[3951.94 --> 3952.74] and made them -[3952.74 --> 3953.52] majestic -[3953.52 --> 3954.58] to sing again -[3954.58 --> 3956.76] the point there -[3956.76 --> 3957.52] is right -[3957.52 --> 3958.18] through -[3958.18 --> 3959.78] thousands of years -[3959.78 --> 3961.36] the church has used -[3961.36 --> 3961.86] these words -[3961.86 --> 3962.54] in some form -[3962.54 --> 3963.06] or another -[3963.06 --> 3964.38] to worship -[3964.38 --> 3966.30] and what's more -[3966.30 --> 3967.46] the early church -[3967.46 --> 3968.86] very clearly -[3968.86 --> 3969.38] saw -[3969.38 --> 3970.80] how these Psalms -[3970.80 --> 3971.76] foreshadowed -[3971.76 --> 3971.96] that is -[3971.96 --> 3972.84] anticipated -[3972.84 --> 3973.82] and ultimately -[3973.82 --> 3974.92] found their fulfillment -[3974.92 --> 3976.08] in the birth -[3976.08 --> 3976.58] life -[3976.58 --> 3976.92] death -[3976.92 --> 3977.46] resurrection -[3977.46 --> 3978.38] and exaltation -[3978.38 --> 3979.22] of Jesus -[3979.22 --> 3979.96] and his kingdom -[3979.96 --> 3980.36] come -[3980.36 --> 3981.14] and his kingdom -[3981.14 --> 3981.60] coming -[3981.60 --> 3982.08] which he -[3982.08 --> 3982.94] ushered in -[3982.94 --> 3986.00] now -[3986.00 --> 3987.76] I want to -[3987.76 --> 3989.34] just acknowledge -[3989.34 --> 3990.06] that I'm going to -[3990.06 --> 3991.02] pause for a second -[3991.02 --> 3992.10] and give you just a -[3992.10 --> 3993.46] brief history lesson -[3993.46 --> 3994.96] now I know not all of you -[3994.96 --> 3995.68] love that the way -[3995.68 --> 3996.34] I love that -[3996.34 --> 3997.58] and so you can get -[3997.58 --> 3998.42] mad at me afterwards -[3998.42 --> 3999.70] but that's fine -[3999.70 --> 4000.18] we're going to do it -[4000.18 --> 4000.88] anyway because I'm up -[4000.88 --> 4001.06] here -[4001.06 --> 4004.74] but I think it's -[4004.74 --> 4005.46] important for us -[4005.46 --> 4005.88] to hear -[4005.88 --> 4007.96] and I'll draw a thread -[4007.96 --> 4008.40] through -[4008.40 --> 4009.60] so listen for the thread -[4009.60 --> 4012.20] in the fourth -[4012.20 --> 4012.84] century -[4012.84 --> 4014.36] there was a -[4014.36 --> 4015.46] church leader -[4015.46 --> 4016.84] who became a church -[4016.84 --> 4017.14] father -[4017.14 --> 4017.68] and was named -[4017.68 --> 4018.72] eventually as a saint -[4018.72 --> 4020.12] called Athanasius -[4020.12 --> 4021.28] right -[4021.28 --> 4022.02] whose teaching -[4022.02 --> 4023.38] in the early church -[4023.38 --> 4024.26] would be instrumental -[4024.26 --> 4025.26] in the council -[4025.26 --> 4025.98] of Nicaea -[4025.98 --> 4026.50] which was in -[4026.50 --> 4027.36] 325 -[4027.36 --> 4028.42] and then -[4028.42 --> 4029.58] though after his death -[4029.58 --> 4030.28] would also be -[4030.28 --> 4031.58] influential in the next -[4031.58 --> 4032.64] ecumenical council -[4032.64 --> 4033.80] in Constantinople -[4033.80 --> 4034.32] in 3 -[4034.32 --> 4035.74] oh Josh -[4035.74 --> 4036.22] 83 -[4036.22 --> 4037.70] something like that -[4037.70 --> 4039.32] perfect -[4039.32 --> 4043.22] Athanasius wrote a -[4043.22 --> 4043.90] short letter -[4043.90 --> 4044.50] to -[4044.50 --> 4046.30] Marcellinus -[4046.30 --> 4047.34] on the book -[4047.34 --> 4047.88] of Psalms -[4047.88 --> 4049.36] and I want to share -[4049.36 --> 4050.02] his words -[4050.02 --> 4051.14] for you -[4051.14 --> 4052.56] he writes -[4052.56 --> 4053.66] in the book -[4053.66 --> 4054.28] of Psalms -[4054.28 --> 4055.18] you will find -[4055.18 --> 4055.70] depicted -[4055.70 --> 4057.08] in it -[4057.08 --> 4058.16] all the movements -[4058.16 --> 4059.44] of your soul -[4059.44 --> 4060.94] all its changes -[4060.94 --> 4062.18] its ups and downs -[4062.18 --> 4062.94] its failures -[4062.94 --> 4063.88] and recoveries -[4063.88 --> 4065.10] moreover -[4065.10 --> 4066.16] whatever your -[4066.16 --> 4067.28] particular need -[4067.28 --> 4067.84] or trouble -[4067.84 --> 4069.06] from this same book -[4069.06 --> 4070.00] you can select -[4070.00 --> 4071.12] a form of word -[4071.12 --> 4071.88] to fit it -[4071.88 --> 4073.08] so that you do not -[4073.08 --> 4073.96] merely hear -[4073.96 --> 4075.02] and then pass on -[4075.02 --> 4076.38] but learn the way -[4076.38 --> 4077.48] to remedy -[4077.48 --> 4079.42] your will -[4079.42 --> 4082.30] as those -[4082.30 --> 4083.06] who have come -[4083.06 --> 4084.08] before us -[4084.08 --> 4085.20] can testify -[4085.20 --> 4085.98] my prayer -[4085.98 --> 4086.76] in this series -[4086.76 --> 4087.26] is that we will -[4087.26 --> 4088.28] not only hear -[4088.28 --> 4089.06] the truth -[4089.06 --> 4089.92] of our emotions -[4089.92 --> 4091.04] we will not only -[4091.04 --> 4092.00] see how God -[4092.00 --> 4093.62] enters into them -[4093.62 --> 4094.64] but as -[4094.64 --> 4095.70] Athanasius said -[4095.70 --> 4096.56] we will learn -[4096.56 --> 4097.08] the way -[4097.08 --> 4097.86] to remedy -[4097.86 --> 4098.88] your will -[4098.88 --> 4100.18] or your desires -[4100.18 --> 4101.80] now -[4101.80 --> 4103.22] continuing the history lesson -[4103.22 --> 4103.84] jump forward -[4103.84 --> 4104.48] a little over -[4104.48 --> 4105.38] a thousand years -[4105.38 --> 4106.02] to the time -[4106.02 --> 4106.84] of the reformation -[4106.84 --> 4108.78] in the 16th century -[4108.78 --> 4109.92] you have -[4109.92 --> 4110.62] Martin Luther -[4110.62 --> 4113.46] who many would say -[4113.46 --> 4115.68] is the instigator -[4115.68 --> 4116.30] the starter -[4116.30 --> 4117.70] of the reformation -[4117.70 --> 4118.30] he says -[4118.30 --> 4119.22] of the psalms -[4119.22 --> 4119.88] that they are -[4119.88 --> 4120.98] like a treasure -[4120.98 --> 4122.22] hidden in the field -[4122.22 --> 4122.92] and he goes on -[4122.92 --> 4123.36] to say -[4123.36 --> 4125.68] the psalms -[4125.68 --> 4126.58] could well be -[4126.58 --> 4127.14] entitled -[4127.14 --> 4128.34] a little bible -[4128.34 --> 4129.54] since everything -[4129.54 --> 4130.36] contained in the -[4130.36 --> 4131.06] entire bible -[4131.06 --> 4131.78] is beautifully -[4131.78 --> 4132.82] and briefly -[4132.82 --> 4133.60] comprehended -[4133.60 --> 4134.50] and compacted -[4134.50 --> 4135.24] into a short -[4135.24 --> 4135.78] handbook -[4135.78 --> 4137.02] you can see -[4137.02 --> 4138.06] and it is precious -[4138.06 --> 4138.56] to us -[4138.56 --> 4139.18] because most -[4139.18 --> 4139.64] clearly -[4139.64 --> 4140.34] the promises -[4140.34 --> 4141.14] of the death -[4141.14 --> 4142.14] and the resurrection -[4142.14 --> 4142.82] of Christ -[4142.82 --> 4143.76] and the descriptions -[4143.76 --> 4144.90] of his kingdom -[4144.90 --> 4145.58] and the nature -[4145.58 --> 4146.18] and standing -[4146.18 --> 4147.14] of all Christian -[4147.14 --> 4147.58] people -[4147.58 --> 4148.64] are revealed -[4148.64 --> 4151.36] at the same time -[4151.36 --> 4152.22] as Luther -[4152.22 --> 4153.62] you have -[4153.62 --> 4154.30] John Calvin -[4154.30 --> 4155.64] who will say -[4155.64 --> 4157.32] what various -[4157.32 --> 4158.26] and resplendent -[4158.26 --> 4158.58] riches -[4158.58 --> 4159.38] are contained -[4159.38 --> 4160.40] in this treasury -[4160.40 --> 4161.66] it were difficult -[4161.66 --> 4162.44] to describe -[4162.44 --> 4163.74] I have been -[4163.74 --> 4164.60] want to call -[4164.60 --> 4165.14] this book -[4165.14 --> 4166.48] not inappropriately -[4166.48 --> 4167.60] an anatomy -[4167.60 --> 4168.92] of all parts -[4168.92 --> 4169.72] of the soul -[4169.72 --> 4172.14] I think Calvin -[4172.14 --> 4173.02] is away with words -[4173.02 --> 4173.32] there -[4173.32 --> 4174.50] an anatomy -[4174.50 --> 4176.12] of all parts -[4176.12 --> 4177.48] of the soul -[4177.48 --> 4178.88] for there is not -[4178.88 --> 4179.46] an emotion -[4179.46 --> 4180.42] of which anyone -[4180.42 --> 4181.28] can be conscious -[4181.28 --> 4182.68] that is not here -[4182.68 --> 4183.38] represented -[4183.38 --> 4185.00] as in a mirror -[4185.00 --> 4187.86] now like I said -[4187.86 --> 4188.40] I know that -[4188.40 --> 4189.38] not everyone -[4189.38 --> 4190.24] loves history -[4190.24 --> 4190.78] the way that -[4190.78 --> 4191.64] I do -[4191.64 --> 4192.96] but I think -[4192.96 --> 4193.54] this is really -[4193.54 --> 4194.52] important for us -[4194.52 --> 4194.94] to see -[4194.94 --> 4195.92] that throughout -[4195.92 --> 4197.20] all the ages -[4197.20 --> 4198.28] the Christian faith -[4198.28 --> 4198.94] and tradition -[4198.94 --> 4200.04] as we connect -[4200.04 --> 4200.74] even back -[4200.74 --> 4201.60] to Moses -[4201.60 --> 4202.54] and the very first -[4202.54 --> 4203.56] words recorded -[4203.56 --> 4204.48] in the Bible -[4204.48 --> 4205.46] that the Psalter -[4205.46 --> 4206.74] has been the voice -[4206.74 --> 4207.86] of God -[4207.86 --> 4208.90] to his people -[4208.90 --> 4209.88] and the voice -[4209.88 --> 4210.92] of his people -[4210.92 --> 4212.28] in all of our struggles -[4212.28 --> 4213.70] right the Psalter -[4213.70 --> 4214.70] has been our voice -[4214.70 --> 4215.16] to God -[4215.16 --> 4215.62] in the midst -[4215.62 --> 4216.68] of whatever we face -[4216.68 --> 4217.70] and so now -[4217.70 --> 4218.54] as we begin -[4218.54 --> 4219.14] a series -[4219.14 --> 4220.02] on faith -[4220.02 --> 4221.66] and all our feelings -[4221.66 --> 4223.28] what I really -[4223.28 --> 4224.78] hope you hear -[4224.78 --> 4226.92] is that -[4226.92 --> 4228.34] the sorts of things -[4228.34 --> 4229.22] we teach -[4229.22 --> 4230.52] myself and Pastor Kevin -[4230.52 --> 4231.86] the things that we say -[4231.86 --> 4232.56] up here -[4232.56 --> 4234.20] we're not -[4234.20 --> 4235.50] providing -[4235.50 --> 4236.96] a form -[4236.96 --> 4238.08] of pop psychology -[4238.08 --> 4240.16] right -[4240.16 --> 4240.52] we're not -[4240.52 --> 4241.38] living into -[4241.38 --> 4242.20] a fad -[4242.20 --> 4242.52] or -[4242.52 --> 4244.16] a new -[4244.16 --> 4244.70] sort of -[4244.70 --> 4245.40] constructed -[4245.40 --> 4246.02] modern -[4246.02 --> 4246.78] anthropology -[4246.78 --> 4247.22] we're not -[4247.22 --> 4247.92] operating out -[4247.92 --> 4248.68] of that kind -[4248.68 --> 4249.30] of understanding -[4249.30 --> 4250.12] of the human -[4250.12 --> 4250.46] person -[4250.46 --> 4250.90] but what we're -[4250.90 --> 4251.60] talking about -[4251.60 --> 4252.18] what we are -[4252.18 --> 4252.80] experiencing -[4252.80 --> 4253.20] together -[4253.20 --> 4253.60] what we're -[4253.60 --> 4253.98] offering -[4253.98 --> 4254.22] is -[4254.22 --> 4255.40] the very -[4255.40 --> 4256.32] word -[4256.32 --> 4257.24] and revelation -[4257.24 --> 4258.40] of God -[4258.40 --> 4259.62] to your heart -[4259.62 --> 4260.40] and the words -[4260.40 --> 4260.76] that have been -[4260.76 --> 4261.60] with the church -[4261.60 --> 4262.10] of Jesus -[4262.10 --> 4262.78] since her -[4262.78 --> 4263.88] very beginning -[4263.88 --> 4265.58] if you are -[4265.58 --> 4266.42] ever wondering -[4266.42 --> 4267.34] how to best -[4267.34 --> 4268.16] understand -[4268.16 --> 4269.26] yourself -[4269.26 --> 4270.26] and your emotions -[4270.26 --> 4270.90] how to best -[4270.90 --> 4272.22] see your life -[4272.22 --> 4273.06] and your feelings -[4273.06 --> 4274.18] and all of their -[4274.18 --> 4274.58] facets -[4274.58 --> 4275.46] as we hold up -[4275.46 --> 4276.26] the jeweler's loop -[4276.26 --> 4278.80] it should be -[4278.80 --> 4279.56] through the eyes -[4279.56 --> 4280.24] of God -[4280.24 --> 4281.18] who created -[4281.18 --> 4281.80] you -[4281.80 --> 4283.92] who created -[4283.92 --> 4285.34] your heart -[4285.34 --> 4287.14] and has spelled -[4287.14 --> 4287.98] out for us -[4287.98 --> 4289.18] our faith -[4289.18 --> 4291.58] because you see -[4291.58 --> 4292.70] if we were to -[4292.70 --> 4293.50] base our -[4293.50 --> 4294.44] counsel here -[4294.44 --> 4295.06] and what we say -[4295.06 --> 4296.14] here on a modern -[4296.14 --> 4297.26] understanding of the world -[4297.26 --> 4297.86] or a secular -[4297.86 --> 4298.38] understanding -[4298.38 --> 4298.82] of the human -[4298.82 --> 4299.16] person -[4299.16 --> 4300.04] our counsel -[4300.04 --> 4300.72] would be a lot -[4300.72 --> 4301.28] different -[4301.28 --> 4303.40] now -[4303.40 --> 4304.84] hear me -[4304.84 --> 4305.38] when I say -[4305.38 --> 4305.68] this -[4305.68 --> 4307.02] and I'm -[4307.02 --> 4307.68] going to -[4307.68 --> 4308.80] lean forward -[4308.80 --> 4310.22] and I'm -[4310.22 --> 4310.42] going to -[4310.42 --> 4312.00] slow down -[4312.00 --> 4313.22] so that you -[4313.22 --> 4313.80] get that I'm -[4313.80 --> 4314.50] being very -[4314.50 --> 4315.24] intentional -[4315.24 --> 4316.60] and I want -[4316.60 --> 4317.44] you to hear -[4317.44 --> 4317.98] right -[4317.98 --> 4318.40] I'm going to -[4318.40 --> 4319.16] make eye -[4319.16 --> 4319.52] contact -[4319.52 --> 4320.32] with as many -[4320.32 --> 4320.80] of you -[4320.80 --> 4321.90] as possible -[4321.90 --> 4324.02] I am not -[4324.02 --> 4325.64] in this moment -[4325.64 --> 4326.68] from this stage -[4326.68 --> 4327.96] dismissing the value -[4327.96 --> 4328.48] of therapy -[4328.48 --> 4330.24] I am not -[4330.24 --> 4331.00] in this moment -[4331.00 --> 4331.80] from this stage -[4331.80 --> 4333.18] decrying -[4333.18 --> 4334.26] modern psychology -[4334.26 --> 4335.94] I am not -[4335.94 --> 4336.48] undermining -[4336.48 --> 4337.10] the value -[4337.10 --> 4338.14] and the benefits -[4338.14 --> 4339.02] of modern medicine -[4339.02 --> 4339.62] for helping -[4339.62 --> 4340.34] things -[4340.34 --> 4341.08] and help -[4341.08 --> 4341.86] things like -[4341.86 --> 4342.30] depression -[4342.30 --> 4343.24] or anxiety -[4343.24 --> 4345.10] now I do think -[4345.10 --> 4345.64] we need to ask -[4345.64 --> 4346.60] some hard questions -[4346.60 --> 4347.82] I do think -[4347.82 --> 4348.20] we need to -[4348.20 --> 4349.16] wonder about -[4349.16 --> 4350.16] the presuppositions -[4350.16 --> 4350.82] and the -[4350.82 --> 4351.94] foundations of -[4351.94 --> 4352.66] these ways -[4352.66 --> 4353.12] of seeing -[4353.12 --> 4353.60] the world -[4353.60 --> 4353.96] that we need -[4353.96 --> 4354.44] to test -[4354.44 --> 4355.30] every truth -[4355.30 --> 4355.90] against what -[4355.90 --> 4356.68] scripture says -[4356.68 --> 4357.66] that we need -[4357.66 --> 4358.40] to discern -[4358.40 --> 4359.10] God's will -[4359.10 --> 4360.00] and deconstruct -[4360.00 --> 4360.80] what the Bible -[4360.80 --> 4361.56] calls hollow -[4361.56 --> 4362.20] and deceptive -[4362.20 --> 4362.76] philosophy -[4362.76 --> 4366.60] I will say -[4366.60 --> 4367.16] that I have -[4367.16 --> 4367.70] benefited -[4367.70 --> 4368.64] from counseling -[4368.64 --> 4369.74] and from therapy -[4369.74 --> 4371.94] but I also -[4371.94 --> 4372.32] think -[4372.32 --> 4374.28] that a lot -[4374.28 --> 4375.84] of therapy -[4375.84 --> 4376.26] bills -[4376.26 --> 4377.74] could be -[4377.74 --> 4378.44] at least -[4378.44 --> 4379.24] mitigated -[4379.24 --> 4380.44] if you just -[4380.44 --> 4380.72] talk to -[4380.72 --> 4381.18] your pastors -[4381.18 --> 4382.60] or -[4382.60 --> 4383.42] more importantly -[4383.42 --> 4383.92] if you just -[4383.92 --> 4384.26] talk to -[4384.26 --> 4384.68] each other -[4384.68 --> 4385.68] with the -[4385.68 --> 4385.98] psalter -[4385.98 --> 4386.30] in your -[4386.30 --> 4386.62] hands -[4386.62 --> 4388.84] I do think -[4388.84 --> 4389.26] that there is -[4389.26 --> 4389.94] an eminently -[4389.94 --> 4391.28] practical value -[4391.28 --> 4391.80] to the sort -[4391.80 --> 4392.22] of biblical -[4392.22 --> 4392.88] and spiritual -[4392.88 --> 4393.32] counseling -[4393.32 --> 4393.82] that we can -[4393.82 --> 4394.68] do here -[4394.68 --> 4395.50] and I do -[4395.50 --> 4395.80] believe -[4395.80 --> 4396.18] that one -[4396.18 --> 4396.40] of the -[4396.40 --> 4396.64] reasons -[4396.64 --> 4397.06] why so -[4397.06 --> 4397.64] many people -[4397.64 --> 4398.34] are in -[4398.34 --> 4398.66] therapy -[4398.66 --> 4398.98] today -[4398.98 --> 4399.40] is because -[4399.40 --> 4399.80] so many -[4399.80 --> 4400.08] people -[4400.08 --> 4400.58] don't have -[4400.58 --> 4400.94] the kind -[4400.94 --> 4401.48] of community -[4401.48 --> 4402.06] that you're -[4402.06 --> 4402.64] sitting in -[4402.64 --> 4403.66] right now -[4403.66 --> 4405.20] the kind -[4405.20 --> 4405.60] of people -[4405.60 --> 4406.20] who long -[4406.20 --> 4406.64] for your -[4406.64 --> 4407.28] well-being -[4407.28 --> 4408.60] and wholeness -[4408.60 --> 4409.64] and restoration -[4409.64 --> 4410.80] and strength -[4410.80 --> 4411.74] and integrity -[4411.74 --> 4414.08] and then finally -[4414.08 --> 4415.78] in this little -[4415.78 --> 4416.16] caveat -[4416.16 --> 4417.88] I also hope -[4417.88 --> 4418.62] that you don't -[4418.62 --> 4419.42] hear me saying -[4419.42 --> 4420.00] in the midst -[4420.00 --> 4420.72] of your struggles -[4420.72 --> 4421.94] just read your -[4421.94 --> 4422.20] bible -[4422.20 --> 4423.94] and I'm not -[4423.94 --> 4424.48] trying to quote -[4424.48 --> 4425.18] a couple verses -[4425.18 --> 4425.84] at you -[4425.84 --> 4426.54] and put a -[4426.54 --> 4427.28] band-aid over -[4427.28 --> 4428.36] whatever it is -[4428.36 --> 4428.94] that you're facing -[4428.94 --> 4429.80] send you on your -[4429.80 --> 4430.62] way out the door -[4430.62 --> 4431.26] and then kind of -[4431.26 --> 4431.72] just check -[4431.72 --> 4432.72] my own box -[4432.72 --> 4433.26] and say good -[4433.26 --> 4433.80] work pastor -[4433.80 --> 4434.42] chris another -[4434.42 --> 4434.98] job well -[4434.98 --> 4435.28] done -[4435.28 --> 4437.46] if you've -[4437.46 --> 4438.04] actually ever -[4438.04 --> 4438.62] sat with me -[4438.62 --> 4439.22] for counseling -[4439.22 --> 4440.58] you know that -[4440.58 --> 4441.02] what I do -[4441.02 --> 4441.56] mostly is -[4441.56 --> 4441.96] listen -[4441.96 --> 4443.74] and then maybe -[4443.74 --> 4444.64] ask a good -[4444.64 --> 4445.24] question or -[4445.24 --> 4445.88] hopefully a -[4445.88 --> 4446.46] good question -[4446.46 --> 4447.34] or two -[4447.34 --> 4449.52] and yet -[4449.52 --> 4450.70] I also want -[4450.70 --> 4451.08] to be clear -[4451.08 --> 4451.42] because I -[4451.42 --> 4451.78] really do -[4451.78 --> 4452.80] believe that -[4452.80 --> 4453.70] if we knew -[4453.70 --> 4454.38] God's word -[4454.38 --> 4455.08] more that is -[4455.08 --> 4455.82] if our heart -[4455.82 --> 4456.30] of hearts -[4456.30 --> 4456.88] were filled -[4456.88 --> 4457.40] with the -[4457.40 --> 4458.06] very voice -[4458.06 --> 4458.58] of God -[4458.58 --> 4458.92] if our -[4458.92 --> 4459.74] imaginations -[4459.74 --> 4460.38] could readily -[4460.38 --> 4461.24] call to mind -[4461.24 --> 4461.84] the very -[4461.84 --> 4462.24] voice -[4462.24 --> 4462.88] of Jesus -[4462.88 --> 4463.60] that would -[4463.60 --> 4463.92] make a -[4463.92 --> 4464.42] difference -[4464.42 --> 4465.70] in your -[4465.70 --> 4466.10] life -[4466.10 --> 4467.04] and in -[4467.04 --> 4467.18] your -[4467.18 --> 4467.80] experiences -[4467.80 --> 4469.28] I do -[4469.28 --> 4469.88] believe -[4469.88 --> 4470.16] that -[4470.16 --> 4470.90] God's -[4470.90 --> 4471.14] word -[4471.14 --> 4471.74] goes out -[4471.74 --> 4472.28] and does -[4472.28 --> 4472.96] not return -[4472.96 --> 4473.40] to him -[4473.40 --> 4473.64] without -[4473.64 --> 4474.18] accomplishing -[4474.18 --> 4474.70] the purposes -[4474.70 --> 4475.30] for which -[4475.30 --> 4476.12] he sent -[4476.12 --> 4476.42] it -[4476.42 --> 4478.28] if that -[4478.28 --> 4478.74] sounds like -[4478.74 --> 4478.98] God's -[4478.98 --> 4479.16] word -[4479.16 --> 4479.32] it's -[4479.32 --> 4479.50] because -[4479.50 --> 4479.92] it is -[4479.92 --> 4480.76] Isaiah -[4480.76 --> 4481.18] 55 -[4481.18 --> 4481.96] 11 -[4481.96 --> 4485.88] now -[4485.88 --> 4487.78] lastly -[4487.78 --> 4488.82] for our -[4488.82 --> 4489.02] time -[4489.02 --> 4489.22] this -[4489.22 --> 4489.50] morning -[4489.50 --> 4490.22] and I'll -[4490.22 --> 4491.42] begin to -[4491.42 --> 4491.76] land the -[4491.76 --> 4492.00] plane -[4492.00 --> 4492.48] here with -[4492.48 --> 4492.76] this -[4492.76 --> 4493.86] and I'll -[4493.86 --> 4494.16] quote -[4494.16 --> 4494.72] from -[4494.72 --> 4495.86] Allender -[4495.86 --> 4496.34] and Longman -[4496.34 --> 4496.58] again -[4496.58 --> 4496.90] the cry -[4496.90 --> 4497.10] of the -[4497.10 --> 4497.32] soul -[4497.32 --> 4499.38] the authors -[4499.38 --> 4499.68] write -[4499.68 --> 4501.50] our -[4501.50 --> 4501.92] culture -[4501.92 --> 4502.60] presumes -[4502.60 --> 4503.34] that -[4503.34 --> 4503.94] emotions -[4503.94 --> 4504.34] are -[4504.34 --> 4505.10] amoral -[4505.10 --> 4505.72] that is -[4505.72 --> 4505.88] they're -[4505.88 --> 4506.04] neither -[4506.04 --> 4506.48] right -[4506.48 --> 4507.00] nor -[4507.00 --> 4507.32] wrong -[4507.32 --> 4508.28] and -[4508.28 --> 4508.54] according -[4508.54 --> 4508.92] to this -[4508.92 --> 4509.44] perspective -[4509.44 --> 4510.42] it's not -[4510.42 --> 4511.02] what we -[4511.02 --> 4511.56] feel -[4511.56 --> 4511.94] that is -[4511.94 --> 4512.34] potentially -[4512.34 --> 4512.78] sinful -[4512.78 --> 4513.64] but rather -[4513.64 --> 4514.04] what we -[4514.04 --> 4514.46] do -[4514.46 --> 4514.96] with our -[4514.96 --> 4515.36] feelings -[4515.36 --> 4516.90] the problem -[4516.90 --> 4517.34] with this -[4517.34 --> 4517.62] view -[4517.62 --> 4518.10] is its -[4518.10 --> 4518.58] assumption -[4518.58 --> 4519.22] that some -[4519.22 --> 4519.64] element -[4519.64 --> 4520.08] of our -[4520.08 --> 4520.76] personality -[4520.76 --> 4521.38] escaped -[4521.38 --> 4521.64] the -[4521.64 --> 4522.30] consequences -[4522.30 --> 4523.20] of the -[4523.20 --> 4523.50] fall -[4523.50 --> 4526.30] in the -[4526.30 --> 4526.60] church -[4526.60 --> 4526.94] when we -[4526.94 --> 4527.20] say -[4527.20 --> 4527.74] the fall -[4527.74 --> 4527.96] we're -[4527.96 --> 4528.28] talking -[4528.28 --> 4528.72] about -[4528.72 --> 4529.46] how -[4529.46 --> 4529.78] sin -[4529.78 --> 4530.10] entered -[4530.10 --> 4530.30] the -[4530.30 --> 4530.56] world -[4530.56 --> 4531.20] and how -[4531.20 --> 4531.42] sin -[4531.42 --> 4531.74] has -[4531.74 --> 4532.84] impacted -[4532.84 --> 4533.46] everything -[4533.46 --> 4534.30] right -[4534.30 --> 4534.50] and so -[4534.50 --> 4535.14] sometimes -[4535.14 --> 4536.28] when talking -[4536.28 --> 4536.60] about our -[4536.60 --> 4536.94] feelings -[4536.94 --> 4538.04] we say -[4538.04 --> 4538.88] things like -[4538.88 --> 4539.84] I just -[4539.84 --> 4540.36] feel this -[4540.36 --> 4540.62] way -[4540.62 --> 4541.40] or we -[4541.40 --> 4541.54] say -[4541.54 --> 4541.92] things like -[4541.92 --> 4542.28] I can't -[4542.28 --> 4542.72] help how -[4542.72 --> 4542.90] I'm -[4542.90 --> 4543.22] feeling -[4543.22 --> 4543.68] or -[4543.68 --> 4544.74] this -[4544.74 --> 4544.92] one -[4544.92 --> 4545.34] I hear -[4545.34 --> 4546.02] you can't -[4546.02 --> 4546.44] tell me -[4546.44 --> 4546.82] that what -[4546.82 --> 4546.98] I'm -[4546.98 --> 4547.26] feeling -[4547.26 --> 4547.70] is right -[4547.70 --> 4548.14] or wrong -[4548.14 --> 4549.36] and in -[4549.36 --> 4549.54] some -[4549.54 --> 4549.84] cases -[4549.84 --> 4550.14] that's -[4550.14 --> 4550.46] true -[4550.46 --> 4551.40] right -[4551.40 --> 4551.74] it's -[4551.74 --> 4551.94] hard -[4551.94 --> 4552.12] to -[4552.12 --> 4552.44] control -[4552.44 --> 4552.70] our -[4552.70 --> 4553.16] feelings -[4553.16 --> 4553.62] and -[4553.62 --> 4553.96] when -[4553.96 --> 4554.24] it's -[4554.24 --> 4554.50] hard -[4554.50 --> 4554.70] to -[4554.70 --> 4555.00] control -[4555.00 --> 4555.20] our -[4555.20 --> 4555.48] feelings -[4555.48 --> 4555.74] it -[4555.74 --> 4556.00] might -[4556.00 --> 4556.28] be -[4556.28 --> 4556.44] in -[4556.44 --> 4556.58] that -[4556.58 --> 4556.80] moment -[4556.80 --> 4557.06] more -[4557.06 --> 4557.54] important -[4557.54 --> 4558.16] to -[4558.16 --> 4558.92] work -[4558.92 --> 4559.10] on -[4559.10 --> 4559.46] controlling -[4559.46 --> 4559.66] how -[4559.66 --> 4559.78] you -[4559.78 --> 4560.26] respond -[4560.26 --> 4560.52] to -[4560.52 --> 4560.70] them -[4560.70 --> 4561.42] or -[4561.42 --> 4561.52] how -[4561.52 --> 4561.68] you -[4561.68 --> 4562.06] handle -[4562.06 --> 4562.40] them -[4562.40 --> 4563.90] but -[4563.90 --> 4564.16] and -[4564.16 --> 4564.34] this -[4564.34 --> 4564.72] is -[4564.72 --> 4565.20] Allender -[4565.20 --> 4565.44] and -[4565.44 --> 4566.10] Longman's -[4566.10 --> 4566.46] point -[4566.46 --> 4567.96] human -[4567.96 --> 4568.96] depravity -[4568.96 --> 4569.94] is -[4569.94 --> 4570.52] pervasive -[4570.52 --> 4571.86] that is -[4571.86 --> 4572.64] the effects -[4572.64 --> 4573.20] of sin -[4573.20 --> 4573.84] have spread -[4573.84 --> 4574.62] into every -[4574.62 --> 4575.16] aspect -[4575.16 --> 4575.80] of who -[4575.80 --> 4576.24] you are -[4576.24 --> 4576.52] and so -[4576.52 --> 4577.12] our minds -[4577.12 --> 4577.94] have fallen -[4577.94 --> 4578.54] have been -[4578.54 --> 4578.84] affected -[4578.84 --> 4579.36] by sin -[4579.36 --> 4579.56] our -[4579.56 --> 4580.58] wills -[4580.58 --> 4581.26] have fallen -[4581.26 --> 4581.88] and are -[4581.88 --> 4582.06] now -[4582.06 --> 4583.10] plagued -[4583.10 --> 4583.54] with the -[4583.54 --> 4584.10] struggle -[4584.10 --> 4584.76] of sin -[4584.76 --> 4585.34] and our -[4585.34 --> 4585.78] hearts -[4585.78 --> 4586.24] and our -[4586.24 --> 4586.94] desires -[4586.94 --> 4588.10] have fallen -[4588.10 --> 4588.64] our -[4588.64 --> 4589.46] feelings -[4589.46 --> 4590.64] are affected -[4590.64 --> 4591.02] by the -[4591.02 --> 4591.30] fall -[4591.30 --> 4594.40] and some -[4594.40 --> 4594.70] of you -[4594.70 --> 4595.52] intuitively -[4595.52 --> 4596.38] know this -[4596.38 --> 4596.70] but have -[4596.70 --> 4597.02] not been -[4597.02 --> 4597.30] able to -[4597.30 --> 4597.72] put words -[4597.72 --> 4597.94] to it -[4597.94 --> 4598.30] before -[4598.30 --> 4599.94] because -[4599.94 --> 4600.34] intuitively -[4600.34 --> 4600.70] you go -[4600.70 --> 4602.08] I know -[4602.08 --> 4602.56] I don't -[4602.56 --> 4603.06] I shouldn't -[4603.06 --> 4603.48] feel this -[4603.48 --> 4603.68] way -[4603.68 --> 4603.88] and I -[4603.88 --> 4604.06] don't -[4604.06 --> 4604.38] want -[4604.38 --> 4604.74] to feel -[4604.74 --> 4604.94] this -[4604.94 --> 4605.12] way -[4605.12 --> 4605.40] but I'm -[4605.40 --> 4605.60] still -[4605.60 --> 4606.02] feeling -[4606.02 --> 4606.28] this -[4606.28 --> 4606.44] way -[4606.44 --> 4606.70] and that's -[4606.70 --> 4606.82] not -[4606.82 --> 4607.34] me -[4607.34 --> 4607.76] again -[4607.76 --> 4608.32] passively -[4608.32 --> 4608.78] accepting -[4608.78 --> 4609.02] that -[4609.02 --> 4609.26] that's -[4609.26 --> 4609.42] just -[4609.42 --> 4609.70] saying -[4609.70 --> 4610.48] yeah -[4610.48 --> 4611.32] exactly -[4611.32 --> 4613.46] the fall -[4613.46 --> 4614.26] has affected -[4614.26 --> 4615.64] our hearts -[4615.64 --> 4616.44] and what we -[4616.44 --> 4616.66] feel -[4616.66 --> 4617.20] and the -[4617.20 --> 4617.64] psalms -[4617.64 --> 4618.10] themselves -[4618.10 --> 4618.42] we could -[4618.42 --> 4618.80] go anywhere -[4618.80 --> 4619.14] in scripture -[4619.14 --> 4619.46] to make -[4619.46 --> 4619.82] this point -[4619.82 --> 4620.04] but I'll -[4620.04 --> 4620.54] just give -[4620.54 --> 4620.86] you two -[4620.86 --> 4621.50] psalms -[4621.50 --> 4622.06] to make -[4622.06 --> 4622.48] this point -[4622.48 --> 4623.12] to keep -[4623.12 --> 4623.48] us in -[4623.48 --> 4623.90] this book -[4623.90 --> 4624.30] psalm -[4624.30 --> 4625.38] 14 -[4625.38 --> 4626.46] says -[4626.46 --> 4626.86] the lord -[4626.86 --> 4627.40] looks down -[4627.40 --> 4628.10] from heaven -[4628.10 --> 4628.76] on mankind -[4628.76 --> 4629.44] to see -[4629.44 --> 4629.84] if there -[4629.84 --> 4630.40] are any -[4630.40 --> 4631.42] who understand -[4631.42 --> 4631.82] any -[4631.82 --> 4632.42] who seek -[4632.42 --> 4632.80] god -[4632.80 --> 4634.00] but all -[4634.00 --> 4634.46] have turned -[4634.46 --> 4634.80] away -[4634.80 --> 4635.84] all have -[4635.84 --> 4636.24] become -[4636.24 --> 4636.80] corrupt -[4636.80 --> 4637.80] there is -[4637.80 --> 4638.42] no one -[4638.42 --> 4638.92] who does -[4638.92 --> 4639.34] good -[4639.34 --> 4640.42] not even -[4640.42 --> 4641.30] one -[4641.30 --> 4642.94] right -[4642.94 --> 4643.12] that -[4643.12 --> 4644.52] the depravity -[4644.52 --> 4645.38] has affected -[4645.38 --> 4646.06] everyone -[4646.06 --> 4647.14] in every -[4647.14 --> 4648.18] aspect -[4648.18 --> 4649.16] 50 -[4649.16 --> 4649.96] psalm 58 -[4649.96 --> 4650.40] says -[4650.40 --> 4651.26] no -[4651.26 --> 4651.98] in your -[4651.98 --> 4652.38] heart -[4652.38 --> 4652.62] you -[4652.62 --> 4653.26] devise -[4653.26 --> 4653.92] injustice -[4653.92 --> 4654.36] and your -[4654.36 --> 4654.68] hands -[4654.68 --> 4655.20] met out -[4655.20 --> 4655.72] violence -[4655.72 --> 4656.02] on the -[4656.02 --> 4656.22] earth -[4656.22 --> 4656.70] even -[4656.70 --> 4657.06] from -[4657.06 --> 4657.60] birth -[4657.60 --> 4657.96] the -[4657.96 --> 4658.26] wicked -[4658.26 --> 4658.66] go -[4658.66 --> 4659.24] astray -[4659.24 --> 4659.82] from -[4659.82 --> 4660.04] the -[4660.04 --> 4660.46] womb -[4660.46 --> 4660.70] they -[4660.70 --> 4660.92] are -[4660.92 --> 4661.52] wayward -[4661.52 --> 4662.18] spreading -[4662.18 --> 4663.16] lies -[4663.16 --> 4663.90] we -[4663.90 --> 4663.92] we -[4663.92 --> 4663.94] we -[4663.94 --> 4663.96] we -[4663.96 --> 4663.98] we -[4663.98 --> 4664.06] are -[4664.06 --> 4664.76] born -[4664.76 --> 4665.22] into -[4665.22 --> 4665.66] this -[4665.66 --> 4666.36] reality -[4666.36 --> 4666.78] of -[4666.78 --> 4667.08] sin -[4667.08 --> 4667.38] and so -[4667.38 --> 4667.98] of course -[4667.98 --> 4668.82] that affects -[4668.82 --> 4669.38] our hearts -[4669.38 --> 4669.90] and our -[4669.90 --> 4670.32] emotions -[4670.32 --> 4670.92] and our -[4670.92 --> 4671.26] minds -[4671.26 --> 4671.66] right -[4671.66 --> 4672.22] our emotions -[4672.22 --> 4673.14] don't escape -[4673.14 --> 4673.96] depravity -[4673.96 --> 4674.52] and its -[4674.52 --> 4675.10] effects -[4675.10 --> 4676.18] and so -[4676.18 --> 4676.92] with the help -[4676.92 --> 4677.24] of the -[4677.24 --> 4677.96] holy spirit -[4677.96 --> 4678.80] with the power -[4678.80 --> 4679.52] of the voice -[4679.52 --> 4680.04] of god -[4680.04 --> 4680.94] with the book -[4680.94 --> 4681.48] of psalms -[4681.48 --> 4682.10] we are called -[4682.10 --> 4682.88] to master -[4682.88 --> 4683.36] them -[4683.36 --> 4684.58] right -[4684.58 --> 4685.04] that is to -[4685.04 --> 4685.84] learn about -[4685.84 --> 4686.10] them -[4686.10 --> 4686.40] and to -[4686.40 --> 4687.16] reflect -[4687.16 --> 4687.92] on them -[4687.92 --> 4688.80] to hold -[4688.80 --> 4689.30] them up -[4689.30 --> 4690.00] to the light -[4690.00 --> 4690.50] that is -[4690.50 --> 4691.36] jesus christ -[4691.36 --> 4691.94] and to be -[4691.94 --> 4692.78] transformed -[4692.78 --> 4693.64] by the renewing -[4693.64 --> 4694.22] of our minds -[4694.22 --> 4694.80] so that even -[4694.80 --> 4695.70] our emotional -[4695.70 --> 4696.24] selves -[4696.24 --> 4697.00] look more -[4697.00 --> 4698.10] like jesus -[4698.10 --> 4699.12] out of the depths -[4699.12 --> 4700.50] i cry to you -[4700.50 --> 4701.28] lord -[4701.28 --> 4703.22] lord -[4703.22 --> 4703.86] hear -[4703.86 --> 4704.52] my -[4704.52 --> 4705.52] voice -[4705.52 --> 4708.04] jesus -[4708.04 --> 4708.86] did this -[4708.86 --> 4710.28] and he -[4710.28 --> 4711.06] he cried -[4711.06 --> 4712.12] this prayer -[4712.12 --> 4715.34] in -[4715.34 --> 4717.34] in luke 22 -[4717.34 --> 4719.40] jesus is in the -[4719.40 --> 4719.74] garden -[4719.74 --> 4720.82] before he -[4720.82 --> 4721.38] is betrayed -[4721.38 --> 4722.28] before he -[4722.28 --> 4722.76] goes to the -[4722.76 --> 4723.14] cross -[4723.14 --> 4723.44] and he -[4723.44 --> 4723.80] prays -[4723.80 --> 4724.24] father -[4724.24 --> 4725.06] if it -[4725.06 --> 4725.40] is at all -[4725.40 --> 4725.84] possible -[4725.84 --> 4727.00] take this -[4727.00 --> 4727.42] cup -[4727.42 --> 4728.34] from me -[4728.34 --> 4730.34] now the -[4730.34 --> 4730.84] cup -[4730.84 --> 4731.34] that jesus -[4731.34 --> 4732.02] is referring -[4732.02 --> 4732.40] to -[4732.40 --> 4733.12] is a -[4733.12 --> 4733.46] prophetic -[4733.46 --> 4734.00] image -[4734.00 --> 4735.06] that is -[4735.06 --> 4735.28] used -[4735.28 --> 4735.72] in places -[4735.72 --> 4735.94] like -[4735.94 --> 4736.68] psalm 75 -[4736.68 --> 4738.58] or isaiah 51 -[4738.58 --> 4739.92] to show -[4739.92 --> 4741.14] the wrath -[4741.14 --> 4741.76] of god's -[4741.76 --> 4742.16] judgment -[4742.16 --> 4742.76] for sin -[4742.76 --> 4744.38] right -[4744.38 --> 4744.92] and on -[4744.92 --> 4745.64] the cross -[4745.64 --> 4746.38] breathing -[4746.38 --> 4746.98] out his -[4746.98 --> 4747.48] last -[4747.48 --> 4748.08] jesus -[4748.08 --> 4748.96] cries out -[4748.96 --> 4749.74] my god -[4749.74 --> 4750.32] my god -[4750.32 --> 4750.98] why have -[4750.98 --> 4751.58] you forsaken -[4751.58 --> 4752.00] me -[4752.00 --> 4754.06] that's -[4754.06 --> 4754.92] psalm 22 -[4754.92 --> 4757.18] right -[4757.18 --> 4759.56] in his -[4759.56 --> 4760.48] deepest -[4760.48 --> 4761.74] depths -[4761.74 --> 4763.94] in the -[4763.94 --> 4764.48] darkest -[4764.48 --> 4765.62] moments -[4765.62 --> 4766.50] of jesus -[4766.50 --> 4767.64] life -[4767.64 --> 4769.72] he cries -[4769.72 --> 4770.26] out -[4770.26 --> 4771.78] with the -[4771.78 --> 4772.56] songs -[4772.56 --> 4773.76] and prayers -[4773.76 --> 4774.96] of his -[4774.96 --> 4775.42] people -[4775.42 --> 4778.80] and his -[4778.80 --> 4779.18] father -[4779.18 --> 4779.68] hears -[4779.68 --> 4780.04] him -[4780.04 --> 4782.70] and his -[4782.70 --> 4783.06] father -[4783.06 --> 4783.60] raises -[4783.60 --> 4784.06] him -[4784.06 --> 4785.18] from the -[4785.18 --> 4785.46] dead -[4785.46 --> 4787.36] and on -[4787.36 --> 4788.20] the cross -[4788.20 --> 4788.98] jesus -[4788.98 --> 4789.56] cries -[4789.56 --> 4789.94] out -[4789.94 --> 4790.82] with words -[4790.82 --> 4791.62] of worship -[4791.62 --> 4793.88] in his -[4793.88 --> 4794.44] grief -[4794.44 --> 4797.64] he uses -[4797.64 --> 4799.90] a song -[4799.90 --> 4800.50] of worship -[4800.50 --> 4802.56] you see -[4802.56 --> 4802.80] there's a -[4802.80 --> 4803.12] mistake -[4803.12 --> 4803.84] that persists -[4803.84 --> 4804.22] in the -[4804.22 --> 4804.48] modern -[4804.48 --> 4804.96] church -[4804.96 --> 4806.04] that our -[4806.04 --> 4806.26] worship -[4806.26 --> 4806.74] has to be -[4806.74 --> 4807.18] joyful -[4807.18 --> 4807.96] it has to -[4807.96 --> 4808.44] be happy -[4808.44 --> 4809.26] and clappy -[4809.26 --> 4809.70] and that if -[4809.70 --> 4810.42] we can't -[4810.42 --> 4810.92] raise our -[4810.92 --> 4811.24] hands -[4811.24 --> 4811.78] with smiles -[4811.78 --> 4812.12] on our -[4812.12 --> 4812.40] faces -[4812.40 --> 4813.20] that anything -[4813.20 --> 4813.62] other than -[4813.62 --> 4814.10] that is not -[4814.10 --> 4814.38] worship -[4814.38 --> 4814.78] but in the -[4814.78 --> 4815.14] bible -[4815.14 --> 4815.78] worship -[4815.78 --> 4816.18] is -[4816.18 --> 4816.66] my god -[4816.66 --> 4817.14] my god -[4817.14 --> 4817.62] why have -[4817.62 --> 4818.20] you forsaken -[4818.20 --> 4818.50] me -[4818.50 --> 4819.70] in the -[4819.70 --> 4820.02] bible -[4820.02 --> 4820.40] worship -[4820.40 --> 4820.84] is the -[4820.84 --> 4821.40] depths -[4821.40 --> 4822.06] of your -[4822.06 --> 4822.64] pain -[4822.64 --> 4823.50] being brought -[4823.50 --> 4823.84] to the -[4823.84 --> 4824.30] presence -[4824.30 --> 4825.54] of our -[4825.54 --> 4825.88] father -[4825.88 --> 4828.90] and so -[4828.90 --> 4830.28] I ask -[4830.28 --> 4830.60] you -[4830.60 --> 4832.28] whatever -[4832.28 --> 4832.68] your -[4832.68 --> 4833.24] grief -[4833.24 --> 4835.32] whatever -[4835.32 --> 4836.02] your cross -[4836.02 --> 4836.26] whatever -[4836.26 --> 4836.76] your dark -[4836.76 --> 4837.06] night -[4837.06 --> 4837.30] whatever -[4837.30 --> 4837.94] your valley -[4837.94 --> 4838.32] of the -[4838.32 --> 4838.62] shadow -[4838.62 --> 4839.32] of death -[4839.32 --> 4843.46] are you -[4843.46 --> 4843.84] crying -[4843.84 --> 4844.30] out -[4844.30 --> 4845.98] to your -[4845.98 --> 4846.42] father -[4846.42 --> 4848.86] out -[4848.86 --> 4849.24] of the -[4849.24 --> 4849.62] depths -[4849.62 --> 4850.36] I cry -[4850.36 --> 4851.04] to you -[4851.04 --> 4851.92] lord -[4851.92 --> 4853.56] lord -[4853.56 --> 4854.24] hear -[4854.24 --> 4855.20] my -[4855.20 --> 4856.24] voice -[4856.24 --> 4858.28] and this -[4858.28 --> 4858.98] is the -[4858.98 --> 4859.36] promise -[4859.36 --> 4859.92] of god -[4859.92 --> 4861.26] that when -[4861.26 --> 4861.88] you cry -[4861.88 --> 4862.56] out to him -[4862.56 --> 4862.90] in the -[4862.90 --> 4863.40] blackest -[4863.40 --> 4863.76] night -[4863.76 --> 4864.38] when you -[4864.38 --> 4864.90] cry out -[4864.90 --> 4865.16] to him -[4865.16 --> 4865.70] from the -[4865.70 --> 4866.68] mountaintops -[4866.68 --> 4867.08] right -[4867.08 --> 4867.40] when you -[4867.40 --> 4868.08] cry out -[4868.08 --> 4868.46] from the -[4868.46 --> 4868.84] valley -[4868.84 --> 4869.48] of the -[4869.48 --> 4869.82] shadow -[4869.82 --> 4870.44] of death -[4870.44 --> 4871.04] he -[4871.04 --> 4871.80] hears -[4871.80 --> 4872.42] your -[4872.42 --> 4873.24] voice -[4873.24 --> 4873.84] and he -[4873.84 --> 4874.22] comes -[4874.22 --> 4874.70] to you -[4874.70 --> 4876.70] to hold -[4876.70 --> 4877.14] you in -[4877.14 --> 4877.94] his arms -[4877.94 --> 4878.74] to hold -[4878.74 --> 4879.10] you in -[4879.10 --> 4879.74] his love -[4879.74 --> 4880.42] he comes -[4880.42 --> 4880.70] to you -[4880.70 --> 4881.48] to lift -[4881.48 --> 4882.04] you up -[4882.04 --> 4882.48] from the -[4882.48 --> 4882.78] pit -[4882.78 --> 4883.56] he comes -[4883.56 --> 4883.86] to you -[4883.86 --> 4884.58] maybe he -[4884.58 --> 4885.06] comes to -[4885.06 --> 4885.38] you to -[4885.38 --> 4885.82] knock you -[4885.82 --> 4886.32] down a -[4886.32 --> 4886.66] peg or -[4886.66 --> 4886.88] two -[4886.88 --> 4887.76] I know -[4887.76 --> 4888.08] I need -[4888.08 --> 4888.42] that from -[4888.42 --> 4888.80] him every -[4888.80 --> 4889.12] once in -[4889.12 --> 4889.38] a while -[4889.38 --> 4891.12] but he -[4891.12 --> 4891.52] comes -[4891.52 --> 4893.60] he comes -[4893.60 --> 4894.04] and he -[4894.04 --> 4894.84] will never -[4894.84 --> 4895.86] leave -[4895.86 --> 4896.16] you -[4896.16 --> 4897.10] he will -[4897.10 --> 4897.78] never -[4897.78 --> 4898.70] forsake -[4898.70 --> 4898.98] you -[4898.98 --> 4900.80] and so -[4900.80 --> 4901.18] when you -[4901.18 --> 4901.84] cry out -[4901.84 --> 4902.20] when your -[4902.20 --> 4903.06] soul -[4903.06 --> 4904.08] cries out -[4904.08 --> 4904.70] know that -[4904.70 --> 4904.98] it is -[4904.98 --> 4905.80] the Lord -[4905.80 --> 4906.84] our God -[4906.84 --> 4907.80] your Father -[4907.80 --> 4908.44] in heaven -[4908.44 --> 4909.08] himself -[4909.08 --> 4910.26] who hears -[4910.26 --> 4910.64] you -[4910.64 --> 4912.00] and know -[4912.00 --> 4912.52] that this -[4912.52 --> 4913.82] same Lord -[4913.82 --> 4914.82] our God -[4914.82 --> 4915.34] our Father -[4915.34 --> 4915.84] in heaven -[4915.84 --> 4916.38] himself -[4916.38 --> 4917.28] has given -[4917.28 --> 4918.14] you words -[4918.14 --> 4919.00] to speak -[4919.00 --> 4919.90] in holiness -[4919.90 --> 4921.12] and faith -[4921.12 --> 4922.06] so that he -[4922.06 --> 4923.28] might be -[4923.28 --> 4924.38] glorified -[4924.38 --> 4927.12] so that -[4927.12 --> 4928.74] the dark -[4928.74 --> 4929.26] night of -[4929.26 --> 4929.98] your soul -[4929.98 --> 4931.32] might be -[4931.32 --> 4931.92] turned to -[4931.92 --> 4932.44] dancing -[4932.44 --> 4933.54] as his -[4933.54 --> 4934.06] mercies -[4934.06 --> 4934.82] are made -[4934.82 --> 4935.14] new -[4935.14 --> 4935.96] every -[4935.96 --> 4937.04] morning -[4937.04 --> 4939.20] that too -[4939.20 --> 4940.68] is a -[4940.68 --> 4941.24] psalm -[4941.24 --> 4943.68] the voice -[4943.68 --> 4944.72] of the -[4944.72 --> 4945.14] psalter -[4945.14 --> 4946.60] the voice -[4946.60 --> 4947.18] of Jesus -[4947.18 --> 4948.32] for your -[4948.32 --> 4948.74] heart -[4948.74 --> 4949.88] in worship -[4949.88 --> 4952.12] no matter -[4952.12 --> 4952.80] when -[4952.80 --> 4954.22] or what -[4954.22 --> 4955.14] you are -[4955.14 --> 4955.68] facing -[4955.68 --> 4958.16] the cries -[4958.16 --> 4959.12] of your -[4959.12 --> 4959.74] soul -[4959.74 --> 4960.68] are heard -[4960.68 --> 4962.04] by the -[4962.04 --> 4962.60] ears of -[4962.60 --> 4962.98] God -[4962.98 --> 4964.58] and he -[4964.58 --> 4965.04] comes to -[4965.04 --> 4965.28] you -[4965.28 --> 4966.12] he comes -[4966.12 --> 4966.40] to you -[4966.40 --> 4966.70] now -[4966.70 --> 4967.14] he comes -[4967.14 --> 4967.42] to you -[4967.42 --> 4967.82] here -[4967.82 --> 4969.12] and he -[4969.12 --> 4969.44] holds -[4969.44 --> 4969.76] you -[4969.76 --> 4972.12] let me -[4972.12 --> 4972.38] pray -[4972.38 --> 4979.88] out of -[4979.88 --> 4980.34] the depths -[4980.34 --> 4981.08] we cry -[4981.08 --> 4981.66] to you -[4981.66 --> 4982.32] oh -[4982.32 --> 4982.64] Lord -[4982.64 --> 4983.64] Lord -[4983.64 --> 4984.18] hear -[4984.18 --> 4985.24] our -[4985.24 --> 4986.22] voice -[4986.22 --> 4989.06] out of -[4989.06 --> 4989.40] the depths -[4989.40 --> 4989.86] we cry -[4989.86 --> 4990.32] to you -[4990.32 --> 4990.58] oh -[4990.58 --> 4990.90] Lord -[4990.90 --> 4991.64] oh -[4991.64 --> 4991.96] Lord -[4991.96 --> 4992.48] may we -[4992.48 --> 4993.02] hear -[4993.02 --> 4993.58] your -[4993.58 --> 4994.36] voice -[4994.36 --> 4998.60] and so -[4998.60 --> 4998.94] in our -[4998.94 --> 4999.36] grief -[4999.36 --> 5001.76] help us -[5001.76 --> 5002.24] to pray -[5002.24 --> 5004.62] in our -[5004.62 --> 5005.18] dark night -[5005.18 --> 5005.60] help us -[5005.60 --> 5005.98] to turn -[5005.98 --> 5006.30] to the -[5006.30 --> 5006.56] light -[5006.56 --> 5006.84] of your -[5006.84 --> 5007.22] word -[5007.22 --> 5008.22] Lord -[5008.22 --> 5009.18] in the -[5009.18 --> 5009.52] valley -[5009.52 --> 5009.92] of the -[5009.92 --> 5010.22] shadow -[5010.22 --> 5010.76] of death -[5010.76 --> 5011.22] may we -[5011.22 --> 5011.74] come to -[5011.74 --> 5012.04] you -[5012.04 --> 5012.38] Lord -[5012.38 --> 5012.74] Jesus -[5012.74 --> 5013.18] our -[5013.18 --> 5013.54] good -[5013.54 --> 5014.06] shepherd -[5014.06 --> 5017.28] and may -[5017.28 --> 5017.62] we know -[5017.62 --> 5017.84] your -[5017.84 --> 5018.26] love -[5018.26 --> 5023.60] with all -[5023.60 --> 5024.14] that our -[5024.14 --> 5024.88] hearts -[5024.88 --> 5025.78] feel -[5025.78 --> 5028.00] we pray -[5028.00 --> 5028.30] Lord -[5028.30 --> 5028.70] Jesus -[5028.70 --> 5029.44] hear -[5029.44 --> 5030.74] us -[5030.74 --> 5032.84] and now -[5032.84 --> 5033.46] transform -[5033.46 --> 5034.00] us -[5034.00 --> 5035.24] by our -[5035.24 --> 5035.54] worship -[5035.54 --> 5035.96] together -[5035.96 --> 5037.28] in Christ -[5037.28 --> 5038.26] Jesus name -[5038.26 --> 5038.82] we pray -[5038.82 --> 5040.22] amen -[5040.22 --> 5064.02] what is -[5064.02 --> 5065.66] our hope -[5065.66 --> 5066.74] in life -[5066.74 --> 5068.18] and death -[5068.18 --> 5069.24] Christ -[5069.24 --> 5070.24] alone -[5070.24 --> 5071.74] Christ -[5071.74 --> 5072.24] alone -[5072.24 --> 5074.18] what is -[5074.18 --> 5074.62] our -[5074.62 --> 5076.10] only -[5076.10 --> 5077.30] confidence -[5077.30 --> 5079.24] that -[5079.24 --> 5080.96] our souls -[5080.96 --> 5082.08] to him -[5082.08 --> 5083.20] belong -[5083.20 --> 5084.44] who holds -[5084.44 --> 5086.06] our days -[5086.06 --> 5086.54] within -[5086.54 --> 5088.18] his hands -[5088.18 --> 5089.40] who comes -[5089.40 --> 5090.20] apart -[5090.20 --> 5091.40] from -[5091.40 --> 5092.02] his -[5092.02 --> 5092.44] command -[5092.44 --> 5093.88] and -[5093.88 --> 5094.30] what -[5094.30 --> 5094.68] will -[5094.68 --> 5096.02] keep -[5096.02 --> 5096.38] us -[5096.38 --> 5096.82] to -[5096.82 --> 5097.30] the -[5097.30 --> 5098.12] end -[5098.12 --> 5098.80] the -[5098.80 --> 5099.58] love -[5099.58 --> 5100.92] of Christ -[5100.92 --> 5102.00] in which -[5102.00 --> 5102.38] we -[5102.38 --> 5103.74] stand -[5103.74 --> 5106.66] oh -[5106.66 --> 5107.62] sing -[5107.62 --> 5110.08] hallelujah -[5110.08 --> 5112.24] our hope -[5112.24 --> 5112.80] springs -[5112.80 --> 5114.78] eternal -[5114.78 --> 5115.80] oh -[5115.80 --> 5116.92] sing -[5116.92 --> 5118.80] hallelujah -[5119.34 --> 5119.80] now -[5120.68 --> 5121.60] and ever -[5121.60 --> 5122.28] we -[5122.28 --> 5122.80] confess -[5122.80 --> 5123.80] Christ -[5123.80 --> 5125.54] our hope -[5125.54 --> 5126.38] in life -[5126.38 --> 5127.80] and death -[5127.80 --> 5135.34] what truth -[5135.34 --> 5135.80] can calm -[5135.80 --> 5138.14] the troubled -[5138.14 --> 5138.80] soul -[5138.80 --> 5140.78] God is -[5140.78 --> 5140.80] good -[5140.80 --> 5143.16] God is -[5143.16 --> 5144.06] good -[5144.06 --> 5145.12] where is -[5145.12 --> 5146.68] his grace -[5146.68 --> 5147.92] and goodness -[5147.92 --> 5148.80] known -[5148.80 --> 5150.36] in our -[5150.36 --> 5151.46] great -[5151.46 --> 5152.88] redeemer's -[5152.88 --> 5153.60] blood -[5153.60 --> 5154.72] who holds -[5154.72 --> 5156.04] our faith -[5156.04 --> 5157.42] when fears -[5157.42 --> 5158.42] arise -[5158.42 --> 5159.66] who stands -[5159.66 --> 5160.36] above -[5160.36 --> 5162.46] the stormy -[5162.46 --> 5163.24] trial -[5163.24 --> 5164.50] who sends -[5164.50 --> 5165.88] the ways -[5165.88 --> 5167.26] that bring -[5167.26 --> 5168.42] us nigh -[5168.42 --> 5169.90] unto the -[5169.90 --> 5170.76] shore -[5170.76 --> 5172.14] the rock -[5172.14 --> 5173.58] of Christ -[5173.58 --> 5176.58] oh -[5176.58 --> 5177.82] sing -[5177.82 --> 5180.44] hallelujah -[5180.44 --> 5182.62] our hope -[5182.62 --> 5183.94] springs -[5183.94 --> 5185.22] eternal -[5185.22 --> 5186.52] oh -[5186.52 --> 5187.38] sing -[5187.38 --> 5189.86] hallelujah -[5189.86 --> 5191.24] now -[5191.24 --> 5192.08] and ever -[5192.08 --> 5192.74] we -[5192.74 --> 5194.06] confess -[5194.06 --> 5195.06] Christ -[5195.06 --> 5195.92] our hope -[5195.92 --> 5196.76] in life -[5196.76 --> 5198.58] and death -[5198.58 --> 5205.58] unto -[5205.58 --> 5207.32] the grave -[5207.32 --> 5207.74] what -[5207.74 --> 5208.36] will -[5208.36 --> 5209.68] we sing -[5209.68 --> 5210.84] Christ -[5210.84 --> 5212.48] he lives -[5212.48 --> 5213.24] Christ -[5213.24 --> 5214.44] he lives -[5214.44 --> 5215.54] and what -[5215.54 --> 5216.54] reward -[5216.54 --> 5217.68] will -[5217.68 --> 5218.48] heaven -[5218.48 --> 5219.66] bring -[5219.66 --> 5221.12] everlasting -[5221.12 --> 5223.30] life -[5223.30 --> 5224.50] with him -[5224.50 --> 5225.48] then we -[5225.48 --> 5225.90] will -[5225.90 --> 5227.18] rise -[5227.18 --> 5228.20] to meet -[5228.20 --> 5229.34] the Lord -[5229.34 --> 5230.52] then sin -[5230.52 --> 5232.04] and death -[5232.04 --> 5233.00] will be -[5233.00 --> 5234.06] destroyed -[5234.06 --> 5235.18] and we -[5235.18 --> 5236.82] will feast -[5236.82 --> 5238.00] in endless -[5238.00 --> 5238.94] joy -[5238.94 --> 5240.24] when Christ -[5240.24 --> 5241.44] is ours -[5241.44 --> 5242.18] forever -[5242.18 --> 5244.18] more -[5244.18 --> 5247.18] oh -[5247.18 --> 5248.18] sing -[5248.18 --> 5250.18] hallelujah -[5250.66 --> 5252.18] our hope -[5252.78 --> 5253.18] springs -[5254.04 --> 5254.18] eternal -[5255.28 --> 5256.18] oh -[5256.18 --> 5257.36] sing -[5257.36 --> 5259.36] hallelujah -[5259.36 --> 5260.36] now -[5260.36 --> 5261.96] and ever -[5261.96 --> 5262.50] we -[5262.50 --> 5263.36] confess -[5263.36 --> 5264.36] Christ -[5264.98 --> 5265.78] our hope -[5265.78 --> 5266.60] in life -[5266.60 --> 5267.90] and death -[5267.90 --> 5268.82] oh -[5268.82 --> 5269.68] sing -[5269.68 --> 5272.10] hallelujah -[5272.10 --> 5274.22] our hope -[5274.22 --> 5275.48] springs -[5275.48 --> 5276.70] eternal -[5276.70 --> 5277.36] oh -[5278.00 --> 5278.84] sing -[5278.84 --> 5281.32] hallelujah -[5281.32 --> 5282.70] now -[5282.70 --> 5283.54] and ever -[5283.54 --> 5284.04] we -[5284.04 --> 5284.36] confess -[5284.36 --> 5286.36] Christ -[5286.36 --> 5287.36] our hope -[5287.36 --> 5288.18] in life -[5288.18 --> 5289.50] and death -[5289.50 --> 5290.52] now -[5290.52 --> 5291.40] and ever -[5291.40 --> 5291.98] we -[5291.98 --> 5293.40] confess -[5293.40 --> 5294.52] Christ -[5294.52 --> 5295.42] our hope -[5295.42 --> 5296.34] in life -[5296.34 --> 5298.36] and death -[5298.36 --> 5299.38] when our -[5299.38 --> 5303.56] amen -[5303.56 --> 5316.90] in my heart and in my life, I'm trying to be attentive to the moving of the Spirit and -[5316.90 --> 5323.94] the voice of God, and so I'm going off script a little bit to change the closing blessing -[5323.94 --> 5329.88] and to end our service this morning with the concluding words of the Bible from Revelation -[5329.88 --> 5338.46] 22, because even as we reflect on the depths of our emotions and struggles, even as we go, -[5338.98 --> 5354.52] sometimes we go hearing and feeling that I have to change my heart. Sometimes we go hearing and -[5354.52 --> 5365.22] feeling in guilt because our vision of hope is too small. So the hope we are offered, the light at -[5365.22 --> 5373.92] the end of the tunnel, as it were, is the restoration of all things, when all will be made new. And so -[5373.92 --> 5379.40] hear this promise of God as our closing blessing this morning. -[5379.40 --> 5389.00] The Spirit and the Bride say, Come. And let the one who hears say, Come. Let the one who is thirsty, -[5389.18 --> 5394.60] come. And let the one who wishes to take the free gift of the water of life, come. -[5396.72 --> 5406.72] He who testifies to these things says, Yes, I am coming soon. Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. The grace of -[5406.72 --> 5413.72] the Lord Jesus be with God's people forever. Amen. Amen. -[5436.72 --> 5466.70] Praise the Lord, from whom all blessings flow. He has washed and made me white as snow. I'm redeemed from the -[5466.70 --> 5496.68] from all my sin and shame. Now and forever. Praise His holy name. Praise His holy name. Praise His holy name. -[5496.68 --> 5526.66] Praise the Lord, from whom all blessings flow. He has washed and made me white as snow. I'm redeemed from the -[5526.66 --> 5556.64] from all my sin and shame. I'm redeemed from all my sin and shame. Now and forever. Praise His holy name. Praise His holy name. -[5556.64 --> 5586.62] Praise His holy name. Praise His holy name. Praise His holy name. To God be the glory, now and forever. Praise His holy name. Praise His holy name. -[5586.62 --> 5591.62] Praise His holy name. To God be the glory, now and forever. Praise His holy name. -[5591.62 --> 5593.62] To God be the glory, now and forever. Praise His holy name. -[5593.62 --> 5598.62] To God be the glory, now and forever. Praise His holy name. -[5598.62 --> 5612.06] Praise His holy name. Just a reminder for all of you 18 and up, and remember, here we're having a brief meeting right now. -[5612.06 --> 5618.20] So if you're a guest here, here we're having a brief meeting right now. So if you're a guest here, need to grab a coffee, please make your way to the foyer. Otherwise, please stick around as we have a quick meeting here. -[5642.06 --> 5663.48] Good morning, everyone. -[5663.48 --> 5680.16] Good morning, everyone. My intention is to make this quick so we can have coffee and get outside and enjoy the sunshine. So thank you for all being here this morning for this exciting time where we get to present this young adult proposal to you, and we can vote on it this morning. -[5680.16 --> 5682.08] Thank you. -[5682.08 --> 5683.92] I just want to give you a little bit of an overview. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 22, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 22, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 1b3761beeda6fa6afae6d497d6a8b2d4b7c26c70..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 22, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,129 +0,0 @@ -• Bible study for young adults at 1 p.m. on Sundays at the speaker's house -• Care packages for students away at school, need volunteers and donations -• Mexico mission trip, Brandon is available to discuss participation in the foyer after service -• Revival Hymns event on October 29th at 6pm -• Call to worship from Revelation 4 -• Praise to God for being holy and worthy of glory and honor -• Confession of sin and prayer for forgiveness through Jesus -• Prayer for the Holy Spirit to help walk in God's ways -• Praise to God with repetition of "thank you" -• Personal prayer/ conversation with a mom (final section) -• Introduction to Yap, a deacon at Langley Emanuel -• Announcement of an offering for Night Shift Ministries -• Reading from John 15:12 and request for generosity -• Children's worship time discussion on creation and favorite animals -• Elder Seth leads family prayer and invites the Lord's Prayer recitation -• Prayers for the congregation, thanking God for his presence and work in their ministries -• Requests for volunteers and leadership in various areas of the church -• Prayer for those who mourn, specifically mentioning the Hogawonings and DeWinters -• Request for healing for Sai -• Thanking God for blessings and strength in various aspects of life -• Discussion of prayer as a tool given by God to His people -• Introduction to reading Romans chapters 9-11, noting their difficulty and importance -• Choosing to persevere in challenges or giving up -• Approaching difficult biblical topics (Romans 9-11) with a willingness to learn and dig deeper -• Paul's introduction of himself to the Roman church in Romans 1:1 -• Background on how the church in Rome was established and its significance in the context of Paul's writings -• Overview of the main themes in Romans, including sin, redemption, and the contrast between law and faith. -• Paul discusses the contrast between those who are under sin and law, and those who belong to Jesus -• He contrasts this with Adam and Christ/Jesus as the "second Adam" -• Paul emphasizes that believers in Christ are no longer ruled by sin, but rather raised to life in Christ through the Holy Spirit -• He explains that this new life is lived according to the Spirit, who calls believers children of God -• Paul discusses predestination, justification, and glorification in light of God's great love for humanity -• He assures believers that nothing can separate them from God's love -• Romans 1 for faith -• Journey of guilt, God's grace, and gratitude -• Framework of indicative (gospel) and imperative (life living response) -• Difficulty in chapters 9-11 being out of place or not as expected -• Chapters 9-11 can be read together as a unit for a new perspective -• The sovereignty of God and human free will are discussed in relation to chapters 9, 10, and 11 of Romans. -• Different interpretations of God's role in salvation based on these three chapters. -• The section of Romans being studied has a complex and debated theme. -• Chapter 11 ends with a reference to the depth and richness of God's wisdom and knowledge. -• A conclusion that everything comes from God and is for God's glory. -• The sovereignty of God and human mission/responsibility -• Exposition of God's plan and promises to his people in chapters 9-11 -• Connection between theology and doxology (worship) -• Learning about God leads to praise and worship -• Importance of remembering that all is praise for God, even in sin -• The theme of God's word not failing in chapter 9 verse 6 -• The speaker discusses God's promises and their fulfillment in relation to the Israelites and Jesus -• Paul is highlighted as a teacher and rhetorician who anticipates questions about God's love and promise -• The majority of Jews have rejected Jesus as Messiah, leading to a challenge for Paul's understanding of God's promise -• Paul responds with an empathetic and definitive explanation that God's promise has not failed or been broken -• Discussion of Paul's affirmation of God's promise as true -• Explanation of Paul's statement "in Christ I am it" and its meaning -• Analysis of Paul's conscience confirming his truth through the Holy Spirit -• Reference to the High Leopard Patechism, a document defining faith in the 16th century Reformed churches -• Faith is defined as a whole heart of trust created by God through the Holy Spirit. -• The Holy Spirit speaks to our consciences, affirming the truth of God's word. -• Trust in God leads to experiencing the same thing every time, even in the face of fear or doubt. -• The Holy Spirit confirms the truth of God's word in our conscience. -• The speaker explains that it's not necessary to know why they believe, but rather trusting in the Holy Spirit. -• The Apostle Paul's writings and the Bible can be seen as dry or dusty, but in this context, Paul is a heartbroken man who betrayed God's promises. -• Paul invites listeners into his anguish and sorrow over having betrayed Jesus' encounter on the Damascus road to save his brothers and sisters. -• Paul expresses profound love for Christ and wishes he could be cursed from Christ for the sake of his own people. -• The passion and heart of Paul is compelling, making Christianity a more understandable concept. -• Prison sentence and fine for foreigners who commit crimes -• Foreign national deported immediately upon conviction -• Example of an individual who was kicked out of Nepal previously -• Discussion of sharing Jesus with people, including those close to the speaker -• Importance of friends and family knowing Jesus in their lives -• Concern for faith life or lack of expression -• Longing and desire for truth -• Recognition that some are asking questions but not taking action to seek out answers -• Pretending to worship when hearts are not genuinely involved -• Some individuals have never considered their faith or the implications of Jesus' teachings -• The law, temple worship, and promises of God -• Patriarchs as ancestors of Jesus Christ -• Human ancestry of Messiah and biblical promises -• Christian upbringing and parental influence -• Baptism and covenant community -• Coming to faith by grace and repentance -• Worship and participation in church life -• Questioning the effectiveness of baptismal promises -• The relationship between faith, community, and God's sovereignty -• The idea that God's sovereignty is not just a concept, but an active force in the world -• Citing Romans 8:28 to support the idea that God works for those who love him -• Explaining the order of God's sovereignty, including predestination, calling, justification, and glorification -• Discussing the scope of God's sovereign action as both cosmic and microscopic -• The major machinations of planets and small movements of planets are reflected in human lives. -• Being dead in sin means being unable to choose God or raise oneself to new life. -• Spiritual death requires the Holy Spirit to breathe life into one's heart. -• The story of Adam and Eve illustrates how humanity fell into sin. -• New beginnings and birth -• Transformation of life from deathliness to newness -• Testimony of miraculous change in a moment or over time -• God's transforming power to bring about newness of life -• Paul's journey of exposition revealing God's identity, actions, and methods -• Anticipation of questions and skepticism, including human expectations vs. God's ways -• The speaker is discussing the relationship between physical descent and spiritual inheritance -• Abraham's children are not all physically descended from him, including Ishmael -• The promise of God is not automatically received by virtue of birth -• God's choice to bless Jacob over Esau was made before their good or bad actions were known -• Spiritual inheritance comes through faith, not physical descent -• The speaker reflects on the idea that God's purpose and election are sovereign choices, not influenced by human opinion or decision-making. -• The concept of God's sovereignty can be difficult to accept, even though it is easy to understand intellectually. -• Theology is deeply connected to personal life experiences, making it challenging to separate faith from emotions and relationships. -• The speaker anticipates questions from the audience about the idea of God's sovereignty. -• Election by God's choice -• Reasons for election are not based on human actions or decisions -• God's reasons are based on his glory and good intentions -• Human understanding of these reasons is limited, if possible at all -• Believing in the doctrine of election can bring comfort and salvation -• God's character and sovereignty are the foundation of salvation -• The security of salvation is not based on human goodness or effort, but on God's character -• Sovereignty and election mean God gives everything, including freedom to ask for more -• God can ask anything in return, as he has given everything -• Trusting in God's sovereignty means trusting him with every decision and action -• Conversation with friends about a difficult situation -• Needing to spend time in prayer for the case in question -• The goal of prayer is to end in prayer, even if understanding scripture's depth is not fully possible -• Worshiping God brings rest in His promises and sovereignty -• God's promises are always realized, making worship and prayer essential -• Acknowledging God's holiness and attributes (mighty, majestic, sovereign, transcendent) -• Recognizing the limitations of human understanding compared to God's ways and judgments -• Prayer and benediction -• Hymn singing, specifically "All Creatures of Our Life" and repetition of "Alleluia" -• Emotional response with repeated expressions of "Oh, my God" -• Prolonged expression of gratitude with repeated "Thank you"s \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 22, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 22, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 31c4091491cc87a5f1afeeac31b256c2e3c5be90..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 22, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3017 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 152.00] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 182.00] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 212.00] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 242.00] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 272.00] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 302.00] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 332.00] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 362.00] Thank you. -[362.00 --> 364.00] Thank you. -[392.00 --> 394.00] Thank you. -[394.00 --> 398.00] Thank you. -[422.00 --> 451.98] Thank you. -[452.00 --> 481.98] Thank you. -[482.00 --> 511.98] Thank you. -[512.00 --> 541.98] Thank you. -[542.00 --> 544.00] Thank you. -[572.00 --> 574.00] Thank you. -[574.00 --> 576.00] Thank you. -[576.00 --> 578.00] Thank you. -[578.00 --> 580.00] Thank you. -[580.00 --> 580.50] Okay. -[581.00 --> 583.00] So I have two announcements for the young adults. -[583.38 --> 585.44] Well, one for the whole congregation and one for the young adults. -[585.86 --> 589.86] The one for the young adults is the Bible studies today at 1 p.m. at my house. -[590.34 --> 591.82] I'll get you the address if you don't know it. -[592.04 --> 592.88] And it's out there. -[592.88 --> 594.88] Come prepared. -[594.88 --> 595.32] Come prepared. -[595.56 --> 596.38] Lunch will be there. -[596.88 --> 600.02] And we'll be resuming our first Corinthians Bible study at chapter 12. -[601.12 --> 604.94] The announcement for the whole congregation is the, it's about the time of the year where -[604.94 --> 608.12] we do the care packages for the young adults that are away abroad at school. -[608.12 --> 612.16] We have more students that are gone this year than previous years. -[612.16 --> 614.12] We have about 13 gone this year. -[615.18 --> 617.30] And I still need about eight more volunteers. -[617.80 --> 621.56] And so what you need to know if you want to volunteer and help me with this, first, come -[621.56 --> 624.30] and contact me after the service or email me or message me. -[624.30 --> 626.78] And second, this is what I need. -[627.50 --> 631.70] The care packages should be about the size of a shoe box because that's about the size -[631.70 --> 633.80] of the package we send to the young adults. -[634.46 --> 640.80] Don't buy a box from like shoppers or like Canada Post or pay for shipping because that's -[640.80 --> 641.58] what I'll be doing. -[642.04 --> 642.74] Saves you money. -[644.90 --> 647.50] No more than $50 worth of stuff. -[647.64 --> 649.60] You guys go over every year and that's great. -[649.86 --> 653.62] But just try to, you know, limit it to $50 if we can. -[653.62 --> 656.26] We don't, it's not, you know, it's not Christmas. -[657.04 --> 669.62] So, and then aim to bring it by next Sunday, January 20, October, October 29th. -[671.66 --> 673.60] But if you can't make it, that's fine. -[673.64 --> 675.16] I'm shipping them out the following Tuesday. -[675.48 --> 676.90] So you have a little wiggle room. -[677.90 --> 679.36] Yeah, that's all. -[679.68 --> 680.28] Thank you very much. -[683.62 --> 684.62] Thank you. -[684.62 --> 685.62] Thank you. -[685.62 --> 686.62] Thank you. -[686.62 --> 687.62] Thank you. -[687.62 --> 688.62] Thank you. -[688.62 --> 689.62] Thank you. -[689.62 --> 690.62] Thank you. -[690.62 --> 691.62] Thank you. -[691.62 --> 692.62] Thank you. -[692.62 --> 693.62] Thank you. -[693.62 --> 705.62] This happens during the break every year. It's often a group of youth and leaders, but it's not limited to youth and leaders. -[705.62 --> 711.62] So if you are interested in participating in this year's Mexico mission trip, Brandon is here. -[711.62 --> 717.62] There you go. That's the guy you want to talk to. He'll be in the foyer afterwards having coffee. -[717.62 --> 728.62] Grab him, talk with him. You want to try to get early info and sign up so we can know how many people want to participate in that trip this year. -[728.62 --> 732.62] I think that's it. Oh, no, one more. -[732.62 --> 743.62] Next Sunday, October 29th at 6pm, we are hosting Revival Hymns, a folk-style traditional hymn worship event. -[743.62 --> 749.62] And so we invite you all to participate and to come 6pm next Sunday. -[749.62 --> 757.62] It's also a good opportunity to invite friends, family, or neighbors that you've been talking to, maybe about faith or about church, -[757.62 --> 766.62] and to bring them into this kind of event, a little bit more casual and a little bit more of an opportunity for us to gather and pray for God's gift. -[766.62 --> 774.62] Believe that today. As you're able, I'm going to invite you to stand, and we can be welcomed into God's presence together. -[774.62 --> 776.62] Amen. -[776.62 --> 786.62] We're standing together with the body of Christ Jesus who welcomes us into this time of worship with His reason. -[786.62 --> 798.62] grace, mercy, and peace to you, from God our Father, to the Lord, to the Christ, Son, and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[798.62 --> 799.62] Amen. -[799.62 --> 809.62] We've been greeted by God and by the eternal of those around you and greet them in the name of Jesus Christ. -[809.62 --> 811.62] Amen. -[811.62 --> 812.62] Amen. -[812.62 --> 814.62] Amen. -[814.62 --> 815.62] Amen. -[815.62 --> 816.62] Amen. -[816.62 --> 817.62] Amen. -[817.62 --> 818.62] Amen. -[818.62 --> 819.62] Amen. -[821.62 --> 823.62] Amen. -[823.62 --> 824.62] Amen. -[824.62 --> 827.64] Amen. -[827.64 --> 829.30] Amen. -[829.30 --> 834.78] gene -[834.78 --> 835.78] Amen. -[835.78 --> 836.82] Amen. -[836.82 --> 837.82] Amen. -[837.82 --> 838.82] Amen. -[838.82 --> 839.78] Amen. -[839.78 --> 840.82] Amen. -[840.82 --> 841.46] Amen. -[841.46 --> 841.56] Amen. -[841.62 --> 846.10] Good morning. -[850.66 --> 851.80] Good morning. -[852.14 --> 859.62] Our call to worship this morning is taken from a vision of heavenly worship before the throne of God. -[860.36 --> 866.74] A vision that John received while on the island of Patmos and is recorded for us in Revelation 4. -[866.74 --> 871.72] Let's begin our worship with these words of praise from Revelation 4. -[872.78 --> 879.54] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come. -[880.40 --> 885.40] You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power. -[886.00 --> 891.88] For you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being. -[892.72 --> 894.56] Let's worship our Lord and God together. -[896.74 --> 898.74] Amen. -[926.74 --> 928.74] Amen. -[928.74 --> 929.74] Amen. -[929.74 --> 931.74] Amen. -[959.74 --> 961.74] Amen. -[989.74 --> 991.74] Amen. -[1019.74 --> 1021.74] Amen. -[1049.74 --> 1051.74] Amen. -[1079.74 --> 1081.74] Amen. -[1109.74 --> 1111.74] Amen. -[1139.74 --> 1141.74] Amen. -[1169.74 --> 1171.74] Amen. -[1199.74 --> 1201.74] Amen. -[1229.74 --> 1231.74] Amen. -[1259.74 --> 1261.74] Amen. -[1289.74 --> 1291.74] Amen. -[1319.74 --> 1321.74] Amen. -[1349.74 --> 1351.74] Amen. -[1379.74 --> 1381.74] Amen. -[1409.74 --> 1411.74] Amen. -[1439.74 --> 1441.74] Amen. -[1469.74 --> 1471.74] Amen. -[1499.74 --> 1501.74] Amen. -[1529.74 --> 1531.74] Amen. -[1531.74 --> 1533.74] Amen. -[1533.74 --> 1535.74] Amen. -[1535.74 --> 1539.74] Amen. -[1539.74 --> 1541.74] Amen. -[1541.74 --> 1543.74] Amen. -[1543.74 --> 1545.74] Amen. -[1545.74 --> 1547.74] Amen. -[1547.74 --> 1549.74] Amen. -[1551.74 --> 1553.74] Let's pray together. -[1553.74 --> 1559.32] Mercyful God, we love you and we exalt your name. -[1560.06 --> 1563.20] When we read the record of John's vision before the throne in heaven, -[1563.30 --> 1566.18] we can't help but join together in worship of you. -[1567.36 --> 1570.60] Almighty, all-powerful God, we are in awe of you. -[1571.10 --> 1575.00] We're humbled and in awe of your love and compassion and mercy to us -[1575.00 --> 1577.18] who believe in the saving grace of Jesus. -[1577.98 --> 1581.86] You have promised that you're slow to anger and you're abounding in love, -[1581.86 --> 1585.52] a love that's so strong that nothing can separate us from it. -[1586.74 --> 1590.80] We confess that we've each sinned and we continue to sin in our hearts -[1590.80 --> 1592.84] and in the things that we say and we do. -[1593.88 --> 1595.80] And through Jesus, we pray for your forgiveness. -[1596.98 --> 1599.10] Holy Spirit, help us to delight in you. -[1599.24 --> 1600.82] Help us to walk in your ways. -[1601.30 --> 1603.62] To the glory of Jesus' name, amen. -[1611.86 --> 1628.94] Do you notice and trust in you? -[1628.94 --> 1638.26] Go ahead and pray for your forgiveness. -[1638.26 --> 1645.30] Something vain,풀zzling time -[1646.72 --> 1651.10] The world is of temptation -[1652.62 --> 1658.52] Something vain! -[1659.40 --> 1663.60] More into all -[1663.60 --> 1689.54] immer -[1689.54 --> 1719.52] Thank you. -[1719.54 --> 1749.52] Thank you. -[1749.54 --> 1779.52] Thank you. -[1779.54 --> 1781.54] Thank you. -[1781.54 --> 1809.52] Thank you. -[1809.54 --> 1821.54] Praise the Lord, O my soul. Praise the Lord. -[1821.54 --> 1823.54] Thank you. -[1823.54 --> 1825.54] Thank you. -[1825.54 --> 1827.54] Thank you. -[1827.54 --> 1829.54] Thank you. -[1829.54 --> 1831.54] Thank you. -[1831.54 --> 1833.54] Thank you. -[1833.54 --> 1835.54] Thank you. -[1835.54 --> 1837.54] Thank you. -[1837.54 --> 1839.54] Thank you. -[1839.54 --> 1849.54] Thank you. -[1849.54 --> 1851.54] Thank you. -[1851.54 --> 1881.52] Thank you. -[1881.54 --> 1911.52] Thank you. -[1911.54 --> 1941.52] Thank you. -[1941.54 --> 1943.54] Thank you. -[1971.54 --> 1973.54] Thank you. -[1973.54 --> 1975.54] Thank you. -[1975.54 --> 1981.54] Thank you. -[1981.54 --> 1983.54] Thank you. -[1983.54 --> 1987.54] Thank you. -[1987.54 --> 1989.54] Thank you. -[1989.54 --> 1991.54] Thank you. -[1991.54 --> 1997.54] Thank you. -[1997.54 --> 1999.54] Thank you. -[1999.54 --> 2001.54] Thank you. -[2001.54 --> 2003.54] Thank you. -[2003.54 --> 2014.56] Mom, come in, love, my hands, and the laatst, I AM today. -[2014.56 --> 2026.04] Mom, come in, love, my sins, when we are Jaime's world, I AM today. -[2026.04 --> 2031.20] oul, let me just pray in your love. -[2031.20 --> 2059.22] You may be seated. -[2061.20 --> 2076.70] Good morning. -[2076.70 --> 2078.06] My name is Yap. -[2078.12 --> 2080.58] I'm a deacon here at Langley Emanuel. -[2080.94 --> 2083.68] This morning's offering will be for Night Shift Ministries. -[2084.72 --> 2089.92] Night Shift Ministries is a local organization dedicated to providing meal, shelter, and counseling -[2089.92 --> 2090.74] to those in need. -[2091.86 --> 2097.26] From John 15 verse 12, my command is this, love each other as I have loved you. -[2098.20 --> 2099.06] Please give generously. -[2099.28 --> 2099.58] Thank you. -[2099.58 --> 2107.44] Thank you. -[2107.44 --> 2115.30] Thank you. -[2115.30 --> 2123.16] Thank you. -[2123.16 --> 2125.16] Thank you. -[2125.16 --> 2127.26] Thank you. -[2127.26 --> 2135.12] Thank you. -[2135.12 --> 2137.12] Thank you. -[2137.12 --> 2139.12] Thank you. -[2139.12 --> 2146.98] Thank you. -[2146.98 --> 2148.98] Thank you. -[2148.98 --> 2150.98] Thank you. -[2150.98 --> 2158.84] Thank you. -[2158.84 --> 2160.84] Thank you. -[2160.84 --> 2162.84] Thank you. -[2162.84 --> 2164.84] Thank you. -[2164.84 --> 2174.70] Thank you. -[2174.70 --> 2176.70] Thank you. -[2176.70 --> 2186.56] Thank you. -[2186.56 --> 2188.56] Thank you. -[2188.56 --> 2189.56] Thank you. -[2189.56 --> 2199.42] Thank you. -[2199.42 --> 2201.42] Thank you. -[2201.42 --> 2202.42] Thank you. -[2202.42 --> 2214.28] Thank you. -[2214.28 --> 2216.28] Thank you. -[2216.28 --> 2218.28] Thank you. -[2218.28 --> 2222.28] Thank you. -[2222.28 --> 2234.14] Thank you. -[2234.14 --> 2236.14] Thank you. -[2236.14 --> 2238.14] Thank you. -[2238.14 --> 2252.00] Thank you. -[2252.00 --> 2258.00] Thank you. -[2258.00 --> 2260.34] Thank you. -[2260.34 --> 2286.20] Thank you. -[2286.20 --> 2286.68] Thank you. -[2286.80 --> 2287.32] Thank you. -[2287.32 --> 2288.10] Thank you. -[2288.10 --> 2288.98] Thank you. -[2288.98 --> 2290.98] Thank you. -[2290.98 --> 2293.08] Okay. -[2293.08 --> 2302.84] Good morning, everybody. How's everybody? Yeah. -[2306.42 --> 2309.68] Today in children's worship time, we're going to talk a little bit about creation, -[2309.86 --> 2312.50] and we're going to talk a little bit about God's creation. -[2312.62 --> 2316.36] And in creation, there's lots of animals and reptiles and stuff. -[2316.40 --> 2319.26] Does anybody here have any pets at home? Does anybody have a dog? -[2320.14 --> 2322.64] Who has a dog? Does anybody have a cat? -[2323.74 --> 2327.76] Yeah. Does anybody have a pet that is not a dog or a cat? -[2327.94 --> 2330.96] What do you have? A fish? How about you guys? -[2332.40 --> 2335.66] A who? A goat. Cool. -[2336.94 --> 2340.98] Does anybody have a gerbil or a guinea pig or any of those kind of things? -[2341.40 --> 2342.98] Okay. No. What do you got? -[2344.90 --> 2348.16] You're going to get a guinea pig? All right. How about you? -[2350.22 --> 2352.12] You're getting a cat for your birthday. Nice. -[2352.12 --> 2359.28] Well, today we're going to talk about some of our favorite animals in creation. -[2359.46 --> 2365.92] But you know what? I know there's some men in this group who've got a favorite animal in creation. -[2366.40 --> 2369.74] And I got a couple pictures up here. We're going to put the first picture up here. -[2369.84 --> 2372.74] Look it. There's some guys in this church who like doing this kind of stuff. -[2372.78 --> 2373.78] You know what that is up there? -[2374.50 --> 2375.90] That's a big fish, isn't it? -[2375.90 --> 2381.58] This Mr. Woltzer's up there with this big sturgeon fish. -[2382.12 --> 2383.32] We got another one up there too. -[2384.24 --> 2386.12] I'm up there in the middle. Look at those fish. -[2387.00 --> 2387.66] Isn't that cool? -[2388.16 --> 2390.32] In creation, there's lots of cool animals in there. -[2390.42 --> 2393.16] And a lot of people like to go fish and a lot of the men in this church. -[2393.40 --> 2395.88] So they like that kind of fish. -[2395.88 --> 2400.46] So when we go in the back, we're going to talk a bit about some of the animals in creation that you guys like. -[2400.90 --> 2401.94] All right? Should we do that? -[2402.40 --> 2404.24] All right. Let's stand up and do the blessing. -[2407.24 --> 2407.86] You guys ready? -[2407.86 --> 2437.84] Good morning. -[2437.86 --> 2438.22] Good morning, everybody. -[2438.78 --> 2444.54] My name is Seth, and I'm an elder here at our church, and it's my privilege to lead you in our family prayer. -[2445.78 --> 2452.50] Before we start, just to let you know that at the end, I would be grateful if you would join me in reciting the Lord's Prayer to wrap it up. -[2453.20 --> 2453.78] Let's pray. -[2456.14 --> 2464.18] God of glory, God of grace, God of power, and God of love, we thank you for the opportunity to be here this morning, -[2464.18 --> 2470.84] to follow your call to gather together as your body here on earth, as this part of your body in this corner of the world. -[2470.84 --> 2476.12] We thank you for your goodness and your grace. -[2476.48 --> 2480.10] Thank you for the love that you've bestowed upon us this whole last week. -[2480.10 --> 2486.32] And as we look ahead to this next week, we may look ahead with some fear, with some trepidation, -[2486.78 --> 2488.84] maybe some excitement for things that are ahead. -[2489.58 --> 2494.74] But in all of these feelings that we have, we know that you are constant and you are always good, -[2494.74 --> 2497.32] and we can put our faith and our trust in you. -[2497.32 --> 2501.78] Lord, we lift up our congregation to you in thanksgiving. -[2502.46 --> 2507.18] Thank you for the wonderful evidence of your spirit working in our ministries here. -[2507.90 --> 2513.40] We thank you for all of the volunteers, all of the leaders, all of the coordinators, -[2513.52 --> 2517.56] and we thank you for your work in their hearts and pray that you continue to inspire, -[2518.28 --> 2523.68] continue to give us a vision of what it means as Langley Emanuel to gather and go and grow. -[2523.68 --> 2527.54] So, we pray where there is need in our ministries. -[2528.06 --> 2530.78] We pray where we need volunteers that you will provide, -[2531.42 --> 2534.66] that you will motivate people to step into those roles, -[2534.82 --> 2536.80] and that you will empower them as well. -[2538.36 --> 2539.82] We pray for those who mourn. -[2540.26 --> 2541.58] We think of the Hogawonings. -[2541.78 --> 2543.00] We also think of the DeWinters. -[2543.68 --> 2547.48] And we also put our faith and trust again in you, -[2548.02 --> 2551.66] knowing that you hold all of things in your hands, even death. -[2551.66 --> 2554.74] And we pray for comfort for those families. -[2555.28 --> 2560.70] Thank you for the blessing that it has been for them to be able to witness lives of faith -[2560.70 --> 2564.08] and to witness running the race well. -[2565.86 --> 2569.28] Lord, we pray for Sai, that you will bring him healing, -[2569.70 --> 2573.14] that you will enable his heart to have a steady and calm beat, -[2573.78 --> 2576.58] that you will give him and Greta peace as well. -[2576.58 --> 2580.96] Thank you for the wealthings. -[2581.28 --> 2586.70] Thank you for the strength and health and comfort that you have brought so far. -[2586.90 --> 2589.92] And we continue to pray for the young life, -[2590.30 --> 2594.84] and that you will sustain and give them hope as well, -[2595.22 --> 2597.42] and rest and comfort too. -[2597.42 --> 2602.14] Lord, you are good. -[2603.68 --> 2605.50] And we know that we can depend on you. -[2606.62 --> 2609.48] And you have even taught us how to pray, saying, -[2610.48 --> 2611.10] Our Father, -[2611.10 --> 2611.16] Our Father, -[2611.16 --> 2630.62] how to pray, -[2630.68 --> 2631.88] oh, -[2631.96 --> 2635.82] how to pray, -[2635.82 --> 2636.82] Amen. -[2665.82 --> 2666.82] Amen. -[2695.82 --> 2696.82] Amen. -[2725.82 --> 2736.26] And so we are returning to the book of Romans in our teaching for now up until we begin our Advent Christmas season. -[2737.06 --> 2741.98] We're going to live in Romans chapters 9 through 11. -[2741.98 --> 2764.36] And before we read the first section, let me just say that chapters 9 through 11 of Romans are considered by many to be some of the hardest and most disputed chapters in the whole Bible. -[2764.36 --> 2773.42] And so it's not just for temperature, but by example, I'm going to ask you all to roll up your sleeves. -[2774.72 --> 2782.50] If you dig in to God's Word together, to start, we're going to read the first 13 verse. -[2782.90 --> 2788.88] So if you have a Bible, I encourage you to have that open and keep it open, that word on, whatever the case can be. -[2789.76 --> 2791.42] The first time through, you'll be on the screen. -[2791.42 --> 2793.42] Let's pray. -[2796.86 --> 2799.36] I speak the truth in Christ. -[2800.00 --> 2801.04] I am not lying. -[2801.72 --> 2804.78] My conscience confirms it through the Holy Spirit. -[2805.72 --> 2810.56] I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart. -[2810.56 --> 2822.48] For I could wish that I myself will curse and cut off from Christ for the sake of my people, those of my own grace, the people of Israel. -[2823.44 --> 2825.78] Theirs is the adoption of sonship. -[2826.14 --> 2832.10] Theirs is the divine glory, the covenant, the receiving of the law, the temple worship, and the promises. -[2832.10 --> 2844.14] Theirs are the patriarchs, and from them is grace, the human ancestry of the Messiah, who is God over all, forever praised in them. -[2844.14 --> 2850.14] It is not as though God's Word has faith. -[2850.14 --> 2859.92] For not all who are descended from Israel are Israel, nor because they are his descendants are they all Abraham's children. -[2861.02 --> 2865.42] On contrary, it is through Isaac that your offspring was reckoned. -[2865.42 --> 2875.96] In other words, it is not the children by physical descent who are God's children, but it is the children of the promise who are regarded as Abraham's offspring. -[2876.92 --> 2880.08] For this was how the promise was stated. -[2880.74 --> 2884.66] At the appointed time, I will return and Sarah will have a promise. -[2884.66 --> 2891.56] Not only that, but the better children were conceived at the same time by her father Isaac. -[2892.34 --> 2899.42] Yet before the twins were born, or had done anything good or bad, in order that God's purpose and election might stand, -[2899.96 --> 2905.74] not by birth, but by whom he calls, she was told, the older, the third, the younger. -[2906.40 --> 2911.48] Just as it is written, Jacob, I love you, but he saw you. -[2911.48 --> 2935.48] I don't know if you have ever learned a musical instrument, but especially as a young child, -[2935.48 --> 2941.44] learning a musical instrument can be a particular kind of challenge. -[2942.32 --> 2946.64] There's very few of us, and the covalent notwithstanding, -[2947.04 --> 2952.18] who can sit down at an instrument and sound like a prodigy the first time they touch it. -[2955.00 --> 2957.24] It takes a lot of really hard work. -[2958.34 --> 2964.38] And it can be really frustrating, and you can want to quit pretty quickly. -[2965.48 --> 2968.90] And I'll be clear, I'm not talking about anyone in particular. -[2970.36 --> 2978.24] But generally, it's very hard to do things that are hard, and that we don't know how to do. -[2980.02 --> 2982.70] And so in that moment, you have a choice to make. -[2983.66 --> 2983.94] Right? -[2984.06 --> 2990.02] Will you persevere in the face of the challenge, or will you wash your hands with it and walk away? -[2990.02 --> 2994.16] That kind of broke mindset. -[2995.36 --> 2999.90] I want to reply to our work here in Romans 9 through 11. -[3000.96 --> 3002.78] Because it's hard work. -[3003.36 --> 3008.06] It's hard thinking, and it's going to be difficult for some of us. -[3008.06 --> 3014.78] And there's going to be various levels of comprehension and grasping as we wrestle. -[3015.16 --> 3020.78] And so, instead of washing your hands and walking away, maybe consider, -[3021.04 --> 3023.40] how can I try more? -[3024.20 --> 3026.24] How can I learn other? -[3026.40 --> 3028.44] How can I dig deeper? -[3028.56 --> 3033.92] And whether that's calling me and setting up a meeting where we can get together. -[3034.08 --> 3035.86] And you can ask questions and we can talk about. -[3036.36 --> 3040.54] Whether that's bringing it up in your parents or in your other Bible study groups. -[3040.78 --> 3042.14] However you should do that. -[3042.28 --> 3047.78] And at least for right now, agree that we're going to press into the heart. -[3047.78 --> 3050.56] we're going to do the work -[3050.56 --> 3052.80] that might count -[3052.80 --> 3054.24] now -[3054.24 --> 3056.70] to help lay the best foundation we can -[3056.70 --> 3057.84] and because it has been -[3057.84 --> 3060.16] I was reminded earlier today -[3060.16 --> 3061.88] it has been months and months and months -[3061.88 --> 3064.08] since we've looked at the book of Romans -[3064.08 --> 3066.74] I'm going to do a quick survey -[3066.74 --> 3069.78] for the next three to five minutes -[3069.78 --> 3071.66] of where we've been -[3071.66 --> 3073.66] in order to ensure -[3073.66 --> 3075.86] that we're all starting from the same place -[3075.86 --> 3078.48] so really quickly -[3078.48 --> 3079.86] first -[3079.86 --> 3082.94] Paul didn't start -[3082.94 --> 3085.66] or implant the church in Rome -[3085.66 --> 3087.32] so -[3087.32 --> 3088.66] when he writes this letter -[3088.66 --> 3090.36] it's kind of his introduction -[3090.36 --> 3092.72] to them of himself -[3092.72 --> 3094.90] now shortly they've heard about the apostle Paul -[3094.90 --> 3096.50] because the leaders in the church of Rome -[3096.50 --> 3098.42] were taught by him in other places -[3098.42 --> 3100.26] and they then came to Rome -[3100.26 --> 3101.90] and established the church there -[3101.90 --> 3105.32] but this is his first communication -[3105.32 --> 3106.56] with them -[3106.56 --> 3109.24] now at the time of writing -[3109.24 --> 3112.00] Paul likely didn't know -[3112.00 --> 3113.46] that one day -[3113.46 --> 3114.82] he would be in Rome -[3114.82 --> 3115.78] as a prisoner -[3115.78 --> 3117.74] in fact he would be in Rome -[3117.74 --> 3118.96] as a prisoner twice -[3118.96 --> 3120.82] and the second time -[3120.82 --> 3121.56] in all likelihood -[3121.56 --> 3122.70] he was killed -[3122.70 --> 3124.32] by the emperor Nero -[3124.32 --> 3126.96] during the mid-60s AD -[3126.96 --> 3129.24] for being a Christian leader -[3129.24 --> 3131.34] for being a teacher -[3131.34 --> 3132.26] in the church -[3132.26 --> 3135.02] so this letter -[3135.02 --> 3136.66] is both his introduction -[3136.66 --> 3139.70] and his summary -[3139.70 --> 3141.84] of Christian teaching -[3141.84 --> 3145.38] so the first three chapters -[3145.38 --> 3146.10] of Romans -[3146.10 --> 3148.30] are an example -[3148.30 --> 3149.64] or an exposition -[3149.64 --> 3152.64] of the pervasive truth -[3152.64 --> 3153.84] and reality -[3153.84 --> 3155.44] of sin -[3155.44 --> 3158.94] everyone is affected -[3158.94 --> 3160.16] Jew -[3160.16 --> 3161.16] Gentile -[3161.16 --> 3162.16] all humanity -[3162.16 --> 3163.38] have fallen short -[3163.38 --> 3164.74] of God's glory -[3164.74 --> 3165.82] of his perfection -[3165.82 --> 3168.54] and in doing so -[3168.54 --> 3170.26] that we do so -[3170.26 --> 3172.02] because we have exchanged -[3172.02 --> 3174.14] the truth of God -[3174.14 --> 3175.06] for a lie -[3175.06 --> 3176.28] we've exchanged -[3176.28 --> 3177.46] his purposes -[3177.46 --> 3178.60] for life -[3178.60 --> 3180.14] for something other -[3180.14 --> 3181.48] than his design -[3181.48 --> 3182.32] and a pen -[3182.32 --> 3185.32] and the next four chapters -[3185.32 --> 3186.14] more or less -[3186.14 --> 3187.70] are chapters -[3187.70 --> 3189.10] that walk us through -[3189.10 --> 3190.14] the contrast -[3190.14 --> 3191.54] in the law -[3191.54 --> 3193.40] given to Moses -[3193.40 --> 3194.56] and how it -[3194.56 --> 3195.52] can fix us -[3195.52 --> 3196.82] of this sin -[3196.82 --> 3198.94] and faith -[3198.94 --> 3200.26] by grace -[3200.26 --> 3202.52] so he picks a -[3202.52 --> 3206.18] he shows to us -[3206.18 --> 3207.16] a character -[3207.16 --> 3207.86] Adam -[3207.86 --> 3209.72] as the head -[3209.72 --> 3211.48] of the first group -[3211.48 --> 3212.30] that is those -[3212.30 --> 3213.82] who are under sin -[3213.82 --> 3214.84] and under the law -[3214.84 --> 3216.54] and then he contrasts -[3216.54 --> 3218.02] that picture of Adam -[3218.02 --> 3219.78] with the second Adam -[3219.78 --> 3220.24] he calls -[3220.24 --> 3221.18] with Christ -[3221.18 --> 3222.20] who is Jesus -[3222.20 --> 3223.72] as the head -[3223.72 --> 3224.98] of the grace -[3224.98 --> 3226.20] by faith -[3226.20 --> 3229.00] for those of us -[3229.00 --> 3230.00] in the second group -[3230.00 --> 3230.98] those who belong -[3230.98 --> 3231.60] to Jesus -[3231.60 --> 3233.52] while we still struggle -[3233.52 --> 3234.46] with sin -[3234.46 --> 3235.40] and sinfulness -[3235.40 --> 3236.20] in the world -[3236.20 --> 3237.60] Paul makes it -[3237.60 --> 3238.68] abundantly clear -[3238.68 --> 3239.46] that we're no longer -[3239.46 --> 3240.90] ruled by sin -[3240.90 --> 3241.52] that we're no longer -[3241.52 --> 3242.26] identified -[3242.26 --> 3243.68] by our sin -[3243.68 --> 3244.90] we're not slaves -[3244.90 --> 3245.96] to sin -[3245.96 --> 3247.00] the people -[3247.00 --> 3247.72] Paul says -[3247.72 --> 3248.18] who have been -[3248.18 --> 3248.98] raised in the life -[3248.98 --> 3249.48] of Jesus -[3249.48 --> 3250.58] by the Holy Spirit -[3250.58 --> 3251.68] are beginning -[3251.68 --> 3252.52] to glitz -[3252.52 --> 3253.98] God's original purpose -[3253.98 --> 3255.02] for humanity -[3255.02 --> 3256.94] albeit unveiled -[3256.94 --> 3258.16] and still fractured -[3258.16 --> 3259.02] today -[3259.02 --> 3261.88] so let me build up -[3261.88 --> 3263.46] chapter 8 -[3263.46 --> 3265.12] which becomes -[3265.12 --> 3266.28] the theological -[3266.28 --> 3266.98] ground -[3266.98 --> 3268.26] for our new life -[3268.26 --> 3268.94] in Jesus -[3268.94 --> 3269.94] by the Holy Spirit -[3269.94 --> 3271.60] right -[3271.60 --> 3272.48] since there is -[3272.48 --> 3273.94] now no condemnation -[3273.94 --> 3274.56] for those -[3274.56 --> 3275.78] in Christ Jesus -[3275.78 --> 3276.58] we live -[3276.58 --> 3277.42] according to -[3277.42 --> 3277.86] the Spirit -[3277.86 --> 3278.70] who raised us -[3278.70 --> 3279.70] we live -[3279.70 --> 3280.26] as children -[3280.26 --> 3281.38] of God -[3281.38 --> 3282.24] calling him -[3282.24 --> 3283.06] Father -[3283.06 --> 3283.88] right -[3283.88 --> 3284.90] heirs of God -[3284.90 --> 3286.22] and co-heirs of Christ -[3286.22 --> 3288.84] and even in -[3288.84 --> 3289.50] our present -[3289.50 --> 3290.54] sufferings -[3290.54 --> 3291.56] we can know -[3291.56 --> 3292.28] that there is -[3292.28 --> 3293.36] glory coming -[3293.36 --> 3294.58] right -[3294.58 --> 3295.76] and because -[3295.76 --> 3296.54] of his -[3296.54 --> 3297.58] great love -[3297.58 --> 3298.68] for us -[3298.68 --> 3299.98] and because -[3299.98 --> 3300.68] nothing -[3300.68 --> 3301.86] not anything -[3301.86 --> 3303.06] no person -[3303.06 --> 3303.66] or power -[3303.66 --> 3304.82] or principality -[3304.82 --> 3305.54] nothing -[3305.54 --> 3306.68] in all of creation -[3306.68 --> 3307.92] can separate us -[3307.92 --> 3309.02] from his love -[3309.02 --> 3311.82] so out of that love -[3311.82 --> 3313.58] he predestined -[3313.58 --> 3315.18] now that means -[3315.18 --> 3315.96] he chose -[3315.96 --> 3316.80] you -[3316.80 --> 3318.04] before time -[3318.04 --> 3318.54] he began -[3318.54 --> 3319.66] right -[3319.66 --> 3321.04] out of that love -[3321.04 --> 3322.58] may be called -[3322.58 --> 3323.92] now that means -[3323.92 --> 3325.00] he may be able -[3325.00 --> 3325.74] to respond -[3325.74 --> 3327.70] and out of -[3327.70 --> 3329.02] that love -[3329.02 --> 3330.04] he justified -[3330.04 --> 3331.40] and that means -[3331.40 --> 3332.92] because he responded -[3332.92 --> 3333.94] you've been saved -[3333.94 --> 3335.00] from sin and death -[3335.00 --> 3335.64] and that moment -[3335.64 --> 3337.06] out of that love -[3337.06 --> 3338.00] he also -[3338.00 --> 3339.14] glorified -[3339.14 --> 3340.60] and that means -[3340.60 --> 3341.80] he will -[3341.80 --> 3342.76] and is -[3342.76 --> 3344.34] preserving you -[3344.34 --> 3345.26] again -[3345.26 --> 3348.58] so in summary -[3348.58 --> 3349.58] quick recap -[3349.58 --> 3350.60] Paul said -[3350.60 --> 3351.42] that -[3351.42 --> 3352.94] those people -[3352.94 --> 3354.06] those of us -[3354.06 --> 3354.82] about whom -[3354.82 --> 3355.46] he writes -[3355.46 --> 3356.50] in these chapters -[3356.50 --> 3357.76] are more -[3357.76 --> 3359.34] than comparable -[3359.34 --> 3362.18] that's who we are -[3362.18 --> 3362.94] because of -[3362.94 --> 3363.70] who that is -[3363.70 --> 3364.58] and what that is -[3364.58 --> 3366.52] that's the journey -[3366.52 --> 3367.28] of Romans 1 -[3367.28 --> 3367.82] for faith -[3367.82 --> 3369.34] and I get it -[3369.34 --> 3369.92] it's a lot -[3369.92 --> 3372.10] and it's awesome -[3372.10 --> 3375.80] and ordinarily -[3375.80 --> 3377.12] and when I say -[3377.12 --> 3377.56] ordinarily -[3377.56 --> 3378.36] I mean in every -[3378.36 --> 3378.96] other letter -[3378.96 --> 3379.52] that we have -[3379.52 --> 3380.20] from Paul -[3380.20 --> 3381.26] right -[3381.26 --> 3382.12] he will shift -[3382.12 --> 3382.92] the discussion -[3382.92 --> 3384.66] about how -[3384.66 --> 3385.48] we should then -[3385.48 --> 3387.44] live in response -[3387.44 --> 3388.68] to this amazing -[3388.68 --> 3389.58] new reality -[3389.58 --> 3390.96] to this truth -[3390.96 --> 3391.82] that we are -[3391.82 --> 3393.22] children of God -[3393.22 --> 3394.18] who cry out -[3394.18 --> 3395.24] and have a father -[3395.24 --> 3396.10] heirs of God -[3396.10 --> 3397.40] and co-heirs of Christ -[3397.40 --> 3398.06] that we are more -[3398.06 --> 3398.94] than conquerors -[3398.94 --> 3400.08] right -[3400.08 --> 3401.68] he has taken us -[3401.68 --> 3402.30] on a journey -[3402.30 --> 3403.32] that starts with -[3403.32 --> 3404.08] our guilt -[3404.08 --> 3405.22] and then he's -[3405.22 --> 3405.84] discussed -[3405.84 --> 3406.82] God's grace -[3406.82 --> 3408.02] revealed in the gospel -[3408.02 --> 3409.20] and then he finishes -[3409.20 --> 3410.88] often ordinarily -[3410.88 --> 3412.14] with an instruction -[3412.14 --> 3413.06] on how we should -[3413.06 --> 3414.20] live in gratitude -[3414.20 --> 3415.34] for what God -[3415.34 --> 3415.76] has done -[3415.76 --> 3417.56] but that framework -[3417.56 --> 3418.12] of guilt -[3418.12 --> 3418.90] grace -[3418.90 --> 3419.72] gratitude -[3419.72 --> 3421.60] is pretty consistent -[3421.60 --> 3422.14] for Paul -[3422.14 --> 3422.46] right -[3422.46 --> 3422.92] you've got people -[3422.92 --> 3423.36] who guilt -[3423.36 --> 3424.26] God's grace -[3424.26 --> 3424.82] and the church -[3424.82 --> 3425.82] is gratitude -[3425.82 --> 3427.34] to put it -[3427.34 --> 3428.56] another way -[3428.56 --> 3430.36] it always -[3430.36 --> 3431.26] starts -[3431.26 --> 3432.70] with the indicative -[3432.70 --> 3434.06] of the gospel -[3434.06 --> 3435.50] that's the story -[3435.50 --> 3436.92] of the gospel -[3436.92 --> 3438.06] and then -[3438.06 --> 3439.58] comes the imperative -[3439.58 --> 3440.56] for life -[3440.56 --> 3441.70] living response -[3441.70 --> 3443.88] and based on -[3443.88 --> 3444.74] the way chapter 8 -[3444.74 --> 3445.20] ends -[3445.20 --> 3446.48] you would actually -[3446.48 --> 3447.30] expect -[3447.30 --> 3449.22] chapter 12 -[3449.22 --> 3450.58] to come in -[3450.58 --> 3453.76] but there's this -[3453.76 --> 3454.92] weird -[3454.92 --> 3456.02] difficult -[3456.02 --> 3456.66] happening -[3456.66 --> 3458.30] in the chapter -[3458.30 --> 3461.52] now not only -[3461.52 --> 3462.30] do most -[3462.30 --> 3463.02] scholars -[3463.02 --> 3464.12] agree -[3464.12 --> 3465.74] that chapters -[3465.74 --> 3466.68] 9 through -[3466.68 --> 3467.24] 11 -[3467.24 --> 3469.58] are difficult -[3469.58 --> 3470.88] and seem -[3470.88 --> 3471.98] out of place -[3471.98 --> 3473.22] they're also -[3473.22 --> 3474.44] recognized -[3474.44 --> 3475.00] by most -[3475.00 --> 3475.42] scholars -[3475.42 --> 3476.08] to be -[3476.08 --> 3477.04] one -[3477.04 --> 3478.12] big -[3478.12 --> 3479.02] unit -[3479.02 --> 3480.96] that is -[3480.96 --> 3481.54] they're meant -[3481.54 --> 3482.20] to be read -[3482.20 --> 3482.72] together -[3482.72 --> 3484.38] so maybe -[3484.38 --> 3485.22] if you're looking -[3485.22 --> 3486.02] for something new -[3486.02 --> 3486.62] in your personal -[3486.62 --> 3487.50] devotional history -[3487.50 --> 3489.22] read chapters 9 -[3489.22 --> 3489.88] through 11 -[3489.88 --> 3491.12] so that we can -[3491.12 --> 3492.62] stay in this -[3492.62 --> 3493.52] together -[3493.52 --> 3494.60] right -[3494.60 --> 3495.32] because the reality -[3495.32 --> 3495.72] is -[3495.72 --> 3497.16] if you focus -[3497.16 --> 3497.70] too much -[3497.70 --> 3498.50] on the threes -[3498.50 --> 3499.86] you'll miss -[3499.86 --> 3500.26] the four -[3500.26 --> 3502.66] so in this -[3502.66 --> 3503.08] case -[3503.08 --> 3503.74] what that means -[3503.74 --> 3505.18] if you read -[3505.18 --> 3506.40] only chapter 9 -[3506.40 --> 3508.96] you might think -[3508.96 --> 3509.94] that God's -[3509.94 --> 3510.52] sovereignty -[3510.52 --> 3512.58] makes humans -[3512.58 --> 3513.46] pre-determined -[3513.46 --> 3514.00] robots -[3514.00 --> 3515.94] but then -[3515.94 --> 3516.52] in contrast -[3516.52 --> 3517.22] if you read -[3517.22 --> 3518.22] only chapter 10 -[3518.22 --> 3519.40] you might think -[3519.40 --> 3519.90] that God -[3519.90 --> 3520.94] just doesn't know -[3520.94 --> 3522.26] who will respond -[3522.26 --> 3523.24] and he's up there -[3523.24 --> 3524.26] openly waiting -[3524.26 --> 3524.90] for history -[3524.90 --> 3525.80] to happen -[3525.80 --> 3526.62] so he can try -[3526.62 --> 3527.38] out a response -[3527.38 --> 3527.92] and that makes -[3527.92 --> 3528.44] you happy -[3528.44 --> 3530.48] and then -[3530.48 --> 3531.16] if you only -[3531.16 --> 3532.66] read chapter 11 -[3532.66 --> 3533.28] you're going to -[3533.28 --> 3533.80] end up with -[3533.80 --> 3534.48] a strange -[3534.48 --> 3535.16] conclusion -[3535.18 --> 3536.52] about Israel -[3536.52 --> 3537.70] or a strange -[3537.70 --> 3538.54] conclusion -[3538.54 --> 3539.12] about some -[3539.12 --> 3539.64] sort of -[3539.64 --> 3540.82] universalism -[3540.82 --> 3542.08] that undermines -[3542.08 --> 3543.56] the righteousness -[3543.56 --> 3544.20] of God -[3544.20 --> 3545.00] that's so clearly -[3545.00 --> 3545.70] communicated -[3545.70 --> 3546.40] in the first -[3546.40 --> 3546.94] chapter 12 -[3546.94 --> 3549.52] so -[3549.52 --> 3551.48] even as we -[3551.48 --> 3552.46] have rolled up -[3552.46 --> 3553.18] our sleeves -[3553.18 --> 3554.48] and are looking -[3554.48 --> 3555.20] at these chapters -[3555.20 --> 3555.68] over the next -[3555.68 --> 3556.40] couple of weeks -[3556.40 --> 3557.72] keep in mind -[3557.72 --> 3558.92] this overarching -[3558.92 --> 3560.30] theme and role -[3560.30 --> 3561.72] of this dense -[3561.72 --> 3562.72] and important -[3562.72 --> 3563.38] section -[3563.38 --> 3565.20] of Romans -[3565.20 --> 3567.02] and with that -[3567.02 --> 3567.34] in mind -[3567.34 --> 3568.24] one last -[3568.24 --> 3568.94] big picture -[3568.94 --> 3569.72] goal comment -[3569.72 --> 3570.90] here it will -[3570.90 --> 3571.28] be helpful -[3571.28 --> 3571.98] about the world -[3571.98 --> 3572.44] although I -[3572.44 --> 3572.88] think you can -[3572.88 --> 3573.24] get it -[3573.24 --> 3573.96] on screen -[3573.96 --> 3575.30] even though -[3575.30 --> 3576.14] chapters 9 -[3576.14 --> 3576.72] through 11 -[3576.72 --> 3577.86] are super tough -[3577.86 --> 3578.78] and sometimes -[3578.78 --> 3579.58] really dense -[3579.58 --> 3580.20] theology -[3580.20 --> 3580.66] and they have -[3580.66 --> 3581.24] been debated -[3581.24 --> 3582.80] for generations -[3582.80 --> 3584.86] look at how -[3584.86 --> 3585.98] chapter 11 -[3585.98 --> 3586.82] ends -[3586.82 --> 3588.92] chapter 11 -[3588.92 --> 3589.32] ends -[3589.32 --> 3590.62] in verse 33 -[3590.62 --> 3591.08] with -[3591.08 --> 3592.64] oh the depths -[3592.64 --> 3593.36] of the riches -[3593.36 --> 3594.32] of the wisdom -[3594.32 --> 3595.14] and knowledge -[3595.14 --> 3595.80] of God -[3595.80 --> 3597.08] how unsearchable -[3597.08 --> 3597.72] this judgment -[3597.72 --> 3598.92] and this path -[3598.92 --> 3599.72] beyond crazy -[3599.72 --> 3600.08] count -[3600.08 --> 3601.30] who has -[3601.30 --> 3601.78] known the -[3601.78 --> 3602.12] mind -[3602.12 --> 3602.62] the Lord -[3602.62 --> 3603.30] who has -[3603.30 --> 3603.56] been -[3603.56 --> 3604.20] counselor -[3604.20 --> 3605.02] who has -[3605.02 --> 3605.64] ever given -[3605.64 --> 3606.20] to God -[3606.20 --> 3606.72] that God -[3606.72 --> 3607.34] should repay -[3607.34 --> 3607.60] him -[3607.60 --> 3608.84] for from -[3608.84 --> 3609.16] him -[3609.16 --> 3610.08] and through -[3610.08 --> 3610.44] him -[3610.44 --> 3611.28] and for -[3611.28 --> 3611.90] him are -[3611.90 --> 3613.22] all things -[3613.22 --> 3613.90] to him -[3613.90 --> 3615.26] be glory -[3615.26 --> 3616.34] forever -[3616.34 --> 3618.02] amen -[3618.02 --> 3621.70] the exalting -[3621.70 --> 3622.62] in God's -[3622.62 --> 3623.30] sovereignty -[3623.30 --> 3624.46] and then -[3624.46 --> 3625.38] the exposition -[3625.38 --> 3626.36] of human -[3626.36 --> 3626.82] mission -[3626.82 --> 3627.32] and our -[3627.32 --> 3628.12] responsibility -[3628.12 --> 3628.64] and God's -[3628.64 --> 3628.94] plan -[3628.94 --> 3629.56] and then -[3629.56 --> 3630.48] the exclamation -[3630.48 --> 3631.48] of God's -[3631.48 --> 3631.86] promises -[3631.86 --> 3632.48] to all -[3632.48 --> 3633.22] his people -[3633.22 --> 3634.18] chapters 9 -[3634.18 --> 3635.08] 10 and 11 -[3635.08 --> 3636.12] all of that -[3636.12 --> 3636.40] together -[3636.40 --> 3637.46] causes Paul -[3637.46 --> 3638.32] to seemingly -[3638.32 --> 3639.40] spontaneously -[3639.40 --> 3640.58] break out -[3640.58 --> 3641.24] in worship -[3641.24 --> 3643.78] you've heard -[3643.78 --> 3644.14] me say -[3644.14 --> 3644.58] before -[3644.58 --> 3647.12] that all -[3647.12 --> 3647.94] would be -[3647.94 --> 3648.38] theology -[3648.38 --> 3649.88] leads to -[3649.88 --> 3650.88] doxology -[3650.88 --> 3653.32] all good -[3653.32 --> 3653.92] theology -[3653.92 --> 3654.56] studying -[3654.56 --> 3655.10] of God -[3655.10 --> 3655.92] leads to -[3655.92 --> 3656.90] doxology -[3656.90 --> 3657.50] giving and -[3657.50 --> 3657.80] praise -[3657.80 --> 3659.36] learning -[3659.36 --> 3659.88] something -[3659.88 --> 3660.28] of the -[3660.28 --> 3660.66] depths -[3660.66 --> 3661.48] and riches -[3661.48 --> 3661.98] of God -[3661.98 --> 3662.74] moves us -[3662.74 --> 3663.08] or just -[3663.08 --> 3663.64] ought to -[3663.64 --> 3664.50] move our -[3664.50 --> 3664.90] hearts -[3664.90 --> 3666.02] to worship -[3666.02 --> 3666.72] him -[3666.72 --> 3668.12] and so -[3668.12 --> 3668.54] with all -[3668.54 --> 3669.00] of our -[3669.00 --> 3669.70] learning -[3669.70 --> 3670.00] and the -[3670.00 --> 3670.52] whole work -[3670.52 --> 3671.18] of theology -[3671.18 --> 3671.78] that we do -[3671.78 --> 3672.40] don't -[3672.40 --> 3672.86] forget -[3672.86 --> 3674.16] that -[3674.16 --> 3674.54] all -[3674.54 --> 3675.26] is -[3675.26 --> 3676.12] praise -[3676.12 --> 3678.38] we will -[3678.38 --> 3678.88] keep on -[3678.88 --> 3679.22] sinning -[3679.22 --> 3679.60] like we -[3679.60 --> 3679.82] can -[3679.82 --> 3680.02] our -[3680.02 --> 3680.38] service -[3680.38 --> 3680.84] hold -[3680.84 --> 3681.82] hold -[3681.82 --> 3682.78] hold -[3682.78 --> 3682.88] hold -[3682.88 --> 3685.08] even as -[3685.08 --> 3685.66] some of -[3685.66 --> 3685.96] what we -[3685.96 --> 3686.70] learn are -[3686.70 --> 3687.60] and may -[3687.60 --> 3688.18] not yet -[3688.18 --> 3688.56] change -[3688.56 --> 3692.40] as we -[3692.40 --> 3692.60] do -[3692.60 --> 3695.88] notice -[3695.88 --> 3698.12] chapter 9 -[3698.12 --> 3699.18] verse 6 -[3699.18 --> 3701.00] really gives -[3701.00 --> 3702.00] us the theme -[3702.00 --> 3703.44] for all of -[3703.44 --> 3704.12] chapter 9 -[3704.12 --> 3704.50] 10 -[3704.50 --> 3705.22] and 11 -[3705.22 --> 3705.68] together -[3705.68 --> 3706.24] and it's -[3706.24 --> 3707.00] the focus -[3707.00 --> 3707.64] of our -[3707.64 --> 3708.38] first look -[3708.38 --> 3709.22] today -[3709.22 --> 3710.66] Paul -[3710.66 --> 3710.68] Paul -[3710.68 --> 3711.10] prevents -[3711.10 --> 3711.94] that theme -[3711.94 --> 3713.32] in the -[3713.32 --> 3713.84] form of -[3713.84 --> 3714.46] a statement -[3714.46 --> 3715.92] he says -[3715.92 --> 3716.60] in verse 6 -[3716.60 --> 3717.42] it is not -[3717.42 --> 3718.08] as though -[3718.08 --> 3719.22] God's word -[3719.22 --> 3720.80] has failed -[3720.80 --> 3723.58] God's word -[3723.58 --> 3724.54] doesn't -[3724.54 --> 3725.48] fail -[3725.48 --> 3726.40] that's the -[3726.40 --> 3726.60] point -[3726.60 --> 3727.08] that's the -[3727.08 --> 3728.04] big idea -[3728.04 --> 3728.52] of this whole -[3728.52 --> 3728.86] section -[3728.86 --> 3730.36] and to be -[3730.36 --> 3730.76] clear -[3730.76 --> 3731.82] when Paul -[3731.82 --> 3732.74] here says -[3732.74 --> 3733.44] that God's -[3733.44 --> 3733.72] word -[3733.72 --> 3734.40] doesn't -[3734.40 --> 3734.96] fail -[3734.96 --> 3736.10] he's talking -[3736.10 --> 3736.84] about -[3736.84 --> 3737.96] that God's -[3737.96 --> 3738.48] promises -[3738.48 --> 3740.34] promise -[3740.34 --> 3740.84] that was -[3740.84 --> 3741.80] first spoken -[3741.80 --> 3742.78] to Adam -[3742.78 --> 3743.28] but then -[3743.28 --> 3743.78] that was -[3743.78 --> 3744.50] focused -[3744.50 --> 3745.06] in the -[3745.06 --> 3745.42] person -[3745.42 --> 3746.12] of Abraham -[3746.12 --> 3746.94] and then -[3746.94 --> 3747.74] from Abraham -[3747.74 --> 3748.76] was expanded -[3748.76 --> 3749.62] wide -[3749.62 --> 3749.96] to be -[3749.96 --> 3750.32] for all -[3750.32 --> 3750.84] of Israel -[3750.84 --> 3752.88] really -[3752.88 --> 3753.44] Paul -[3753.44 --> 3754.78] is an -[3754.78 --> 3755.56] excellent -[3755.56 --> 3756.40] teacher -[3756.40 --> 3756.92] and -[3756.92 --> 3757.86] rhetorician -[3757.86 --> 3758.80] and he's -[3758.80 --> 3759.82] anticipating -[3759.82 --> 3760.52] a kind -[3760.52 --> 3761.18] of question -[3761.18 --> 3762.46] there's -[3762.46 --> 3763.64] a sort -[3763.64 --> 3764.44] of rhetorical -[3764.44 --> 3764.96] question -[3764.96 --> 3765.54] that Paul -[3765.54 --> 3767.20] is anticipating -[3767.20 --> 3768.48] that kind -[3768.48 --> 3768.56] of -[3768.56 --> 3769.06] is structured -[3769.06 --> 3769.66] like this -[3769.66 --> 3771.60] if -[3771.60 --> 3772.26] as you -[3772.26 --> 3772.68] have said -[3772.68 --> 3773.08] Paul -[3773.08 --> 3773.68] nothing -[3773.68 --> 3774.34] can ever -[3774.34 --> 3774.70] ever -[3774.70 --> 3775.58] separate us -[3775.58 --> 3776.08] from the -[3776.08 --> 3776.60] love of -[3776.60 --> 3777.00] God -[3777.00 --> 3778.12] and -[3778.12 --> 3778.84] if -[3778.84 --> 3779.54] as you -[3779.54 --> 3780.02] have said -[3780.02 --> 3780.44] Paul -[3780.44 --> 3780.82] God -[3780.82 --> 3781.22] chose -[3781.22 --> 3781.78] Israel -[3781.78 --> 3782.30] to be -[3782.30 --> 3782.96] his people -[3782.96 --> 3783.42] for the -[3783.42 --> 3783.84] world -[3783.84 --> 3784.86] and -[3784.86 --> 3785.72] since -[3785.72 --> 3786.40] what we -[3786.40 --> 3786.90] see -[3786.90 --> 3787.84] in this -[3787.84 --> 3788.40] life -[3788.40 --> 3789.12] and moment -[3789.12 --> 3789.58] is that -[3789.58 --> 3790.32] the majority -[3790.32 --> 3791.06] of -[3791.06 --> 3791.74] the -[3791.74 --> 3792.76] Jews -[3792.76 --> 3793.28] have -[3793.28 --> 3794.02] rejected -[3794.02 --> 3794.56] Jesus -[3794.56 --> 3794.96] as -[3794.96 --> 3795.50] Messiah -[3795.50 --> 3796.28] and God -[3796.28 --> 3797.26] then -[3797.26 --> 3797.90] therefore -[3797.90 --> 3798.84] either -[3798.84 --> 3800.02] God's -[3800.02 --> 3800.56] love -[3800.56 --> 3801.30] has -[3801.30 --> 3802.24] failed -[3802.24 --> 3803.20] and someone -[3803.20 --> 3804.12] was separated -[3804.12 --> 3804.88] from him -[3804.88 --> 3805.80] or -[3805.80 --> 3806.74] God's -[3806.74 --> 3807.38] promise -[3807.38 --> 3808.16] has -[3808.16 --> 3808.70] failed -[3808.70 --> 3809.52] or it's -[3809.52 --> 3809.92] wrong -[3809.92 --> 3810.82] or it's -[3810.82 --> 3811.28] a lie -[3811.28 --> 3812.50] or more -[3812.50 --> 3812.94] likely -[3812.94 --> 3813.96] both of -[3813.96 --> 3814.26] those things -[3814.26 --> 3814.52] have -[3814.52 --> 3816.56] that's -[3816.56 --> 3817.26] the challenge -[3817.26 --> 3817.76] that is -[3817.76 --> 3818.94] brought -[3818.94 --> 3819.50] to Paul -[3819.50 --> 3820.34] as he -[3820.34 --> 3820.88] worked -[3820.88 --> 3821.42] through -[3821.42 --> 3822.20] to this -[3822.20 --> 3822.62] point -[3822.62 --> 3823.64] in his life -[3823.64 --> 3824.52] and Paul's -[3824.52 --> 3825.00] response -[3825.00 --> 3826.10] is empathetic -[3826.10 --> 3826.94] and definitive -[3826.94 --> 3827.46] he says -[3827.46 --> 3827.92] no -[3827.92 --> 3829.08] no -[3829.08 --> 3829.60] God's -[3829.60 --> 3829.76] word -[3829.76 --> 3830.20] has -[3830.20 --> 3830.78] not -[3830.78 --> 3831.38] failed -[3831.38 --> 3831.84] God's -[3831.84 --> 3832.18] promise -[3832.18 --> 3832.88] is still -[3832.88 --> 3833.62] true -[3833.62 --> 3834.60] just -[3834.60 --> 3835.16] not -[3835.16 --> 3835.72] maybe -[3835.72 --> 3836.74] in the -[3836.74 --> 3836.98] way -[3836.98 --> 3837.40] you first -[3837.40 --> 3837.74] thought -[3837.74 --> 3839.10] or maybe -[3839.10 --> 3839.48] in the way -[3839.48 --> 3840.02] you assumed -[3840.02 --> 3840.84] it happened -[3840.84 --> 3842.76] to make -[3842.76 --> 3843.34] this point -[3843.34 --> 3844.48] let's start -[3844.48 --> 3845.10] at the beginning -[3845.10 --> 3847.16] verse 1 -[3847.16 --> 3848.60] Paul said -[3848.60 --> 3850.28] I speak -[3850.28 --> 3850.88] the truth -[3850.88 --> 3851.74] in Christ -[3851.74 --> 3852.48] I am -[3852.48 --> 3853.08] it online -[3853.08 --> 3853.90] my conscience -[3853.90 --> 3855.20] confirms it -[3855.20 --> 3855.72] through -[3855.72 --> 3856.44] the Holy -[3856.44 --> 3856.96] Spirit -[3856.96 --> 3858.94] to put it -[3858.94 --> 3859.50] colloquially -[3859.50 --> 3860.58] this is Paul's -[3860.58 --> 3861.14] way of saying -[3861.14 --> 3861.72] for real -[3861.72 --> 3863.54] this is -[3863.54 --> 3864.00] true -[3864.00 --> 3866.26] I'm -[3866.26 --> 3867.76] going to -[3867.76 --> 3868.64] embarrass myself -[3868.64 --> 3869.02] but now -[3869.02 --> 3869.66] I might say -[3869.66 --> 3870.32] no path -[3870.32 --> 3872.84] did I get -[3872.84 --> 3873.30] that right -[3873.30 --> 3876.06] did you get -[3876.06 --> 3876.54] that right -[3876.54 --> 3877.04] you know -[3877.04 --> 3877.56] you're even -[3877.56 --> 3877.88] older -[3877.88 --> 3880.32] I have no -[3880.32 --> 3880.62] idea -[3880.62 --> 3881.18] either -[3881.18 --> 3882.24] the point -[3882.24 --> 3882.84] is Paul -[3882.84 --> 3883.22] to say -[3883.22 --> 3883.92] this is -[3883.92 --> 3884.36] true -[3884.36 --> 3886.34] for real -[3886.34 --> 3887.02] this is -[3887.02 --> 3887.90] who God -[3887.90 --> 3888.22] is -[3888.22 --> 3888.82] for real -[3888.82 --> 3889.32] this is -[3889.32 --> 3889.76] what God -[3889.76 --> 3890.26] has done -[3890.26 --> 3891.34] it's really -[3891.34 --> 3891.78] true -[3891.78 --> 3892.44] there really -[3892.44 --> 3893.24] is nothing -[3893.24 --> 3893.66] that can -[3893.66 --> 3894.44] separate us -[3894.44 --> 3894.94] from the love -[3894.94 --> 3895.36] of God -[3895.36 --> 3896.38] in Christ -[3896.38 --> 3896.98] Jesus -[3896.98 --> 3898.20] and then -[3898.20 --> 3898.42] Paul -[3898.42 --> 3898.88] adds -[3898.88 --> 3900.14] my conscience -[3900.14 --> 3901.10] confirms it -[3901.10 --> 3901.86] by the Holy -[3901.86 --> 3902.26] Spirit -[3902.26 --> 3903.84] that is -[3903.84 --> 3904.90] he knows -[3904.90 --> 3905.70] it's true -[3905.70 --> 3906.64] in his mind -[3906.64 --> 3907.36] and soul -[3907.36 --> 3908.24] that the Holy -[3908.24 --> 3908.80] Spirit -[3908.80 --> 3910.06] confirms it -[3910.06 --> 3910.84] to him -[3910.84 --> 3913.12] so I was -[3913.12 --> 3913.54] thinking about -[3913.54 --> 3913.74] it -[3913.74 --> 3914.88] I was reminded -[3914.88 --> 3915.64] that one of -[3915.64 --> 3916.28] the ways -[3916.28 --> 3916.86] the High -[3916.86 --> 3917.12] Leopard -[3917.12 --> 3917.84] Patechism -[3917.84 --> 3919.52] defines faith -[3919.52 --> 3920.10] the High -[3920.10 --> 3920.26] Leopard -[3920.26 --> 3921.02] Patechism -[3921.02 --> 3923.52] is a document -[3923.52 --> 3924.42] that comes -[3924.42 --> 3925.46] to our church -[3925.46 --> 3926.04] from the -[3926.04 --> 3927.20] 16th century -[3927.20 --> 3928.00] churches -[3928.00 --> 3930.08] in Geneva -[3930.08 --> 3931.04] Switzerland -[3931.04 --> 3931.58] and the -[3931.58 --> 3932.18] Netherlands -[3932.18 --> 3933.54] as a summary -[3933.54 --> 3934.08] of the -[3934.08 --> 3934.56] Reformed -[3934.56 --> 3934.94] faith -[3934.94 --> 3936.30] and one -[3936.30 --> 3936.86] of the ways -[3936.86 --> 3937.16] the High -[3937.16 --> 3937.36] Leopard -[3937.36 --> 3937.94] Patechism -[3937.94 --> 3939.28] defines faith -[3939.28 --> 3941.00] is as a -[3941.00 --> 3941.76] whole heart -[3941.76 --> 3942.48] of trust -[3942.48 --> 3943.36] which the -[3943.36 --> 3944.18] Holy Spirit -[3944.18 --> 3945.12] creates in -[3945.12 --> 3946.02] me by -[3946.02 --> 3946.34] God -[3946.34 --> 3949.04] so the -[3949.04 --> 3949.92] Holy Spirit -[3949.92 --> 3950.82] speaks to -[3950.82 --> 3951.10] our -[3951.10 --> 3951.84] consciences -[3951.84 --> 3953.10] as a way -[3953.10 --> 3954.28] of affirming -[3954.28 --> 3954.92] the truth -[3954.92 --> 3955.46] of God's -[3955.46 --> 3955.76] word -[3955.76 --> 3957.54] Paul's -[3957.54 --> 3958.24] experiencing -[3958.24 --> 3958.78] that in -[3958.78 --> 3959.36] this moment -[3959.36 --> 3959.92] right here -[3959.92 --> 3960.74] right now -[3960.74 --> 3961.92] and he -[3961.92 --> 3962.38] will say -[3962.38 --> 3963.98] you experience -[3963.98 --> 3964.56] that same -[3964.56 --> 3964.90] thing -[3964.90 --> 3965.98] every time -[3965.98 --> 3967.14] you trust -[3967.14 --> 3968.10] in the face -[3968.10 --> 3968.56] of fear -[3968.56 --> 3970.24] right every -[3970.24 --> 3970.74] time you -[3970.74 --> 3971.72] believe in -[3971.72 --> 3972.10] the face -[3972.10 --> 3972.60] of doubt -[3972.60 --> 3973.80] right every -[3973.80 --> 3975.18] time what -[3975.18 --> 3975.86] you see in -[3975.86 --> 3976.60] front of you -[3976.60 --> 3977.26] either the -[3977.26 --> 3977.96] world or -[3977.96 --> 3978.68] your reason -[3978.68 --> 3979.32] tells you -[3979.32 --> 3979.94] should not -[3979.94 --> 3980.64] make sense -[3980.64 --> 3981.42] or should -[3981.42 --> 3981.90] not come -[3981.90 --> 3982.36] together -[3982.36 --> 3983.04] or you -[3983.04 --> 3983.62] should not -[3983.62 --> 3984.18] agree with -[3984.18 --> 3984.54] or you -[3984.54 --> 3984.98] should not -[3984.98 --> 3985.42] believe -[3985.42 --> 3986.40] and yet you -[3986.40 --> 3986.94] still do -[3986.94 --> 3987.78] every time -[3987.78 --> 3988.42] that happens -[3988.42 --> 3988.92] that's -[3988.92 --> 3989.60] Holy Spirit -[3989.60 --> 3990.78] confirming -[3990.78 --> 3991.68] the truth -[3991.68 --> 3992.50] of God's -[3992.50 --> 3992.76] word -[3992.76 --> 3993.20] in your -[3993.20 --> 3994.16] conscience -[3994.16 --> 3998.08] has anyone -[3998.08 --> 3998.60] ever asked -[3998.60 --> 3998.84] you -[3998.84 --> 4000.52] why are -[4000.52 --> 4000.84] you a -[4000.84 --> 4001.14] Christian -[4001.14 --> 4002.76] and in -[4002.76 --> 4003.46] that moment -[4003.46 --> 4004.66] right all -[4004.66 --> 4005.22] you can -[4005.22 --> 4006.40] say is -[4006.40 --> 4007.50] I don't -[4007.50 --> 4007.88] know -[4007.88 --> 4009.20] like I -[4009.20 --> 4009.54] stand -[4009.54 --> 4011.72] I don't -[4011.72 --> 4012.20] know why -[4012.20 --> 4012.78] exactly -[4012.78 --> 4013.68] I just -[4013.68 --> 4014.04] believe -[4014.04 --> 4016.48] that's the -[4016.48 --> 4017.28] Holy Spirit -[4017.28 --> 4018.56] confirming -[4018.56 --> 4019.58] the truth -[4019.58 --> 4020.24] the gospel -[4020.24 --> 4021.48] in your -[4021.48 --> 4021.86] heart -[4021.86 --> 4022.38] and in -[4022.38 --> 4022.82] your mind -[4022.82 --> 4024.86] now I -[4024.86 --> 4025.12] want to be -[4025.12 --> 4025.74] really clear -[4025.74 --> 4026.92] right like I -[4026.92 --> 4027.46] don't want you -[4027.46 --> 4028.22] to stay in -[4028.22 --> 4028.70] that place -[4028.70 --> 4029.06] where that's -[4029.06 --> 4029.38] your only -[4029.38 --> 4029.78] answer -[4029.78 --> 4031.84] but if that's -[4031.84 --> 4032.18] your only -[4032.18 --> 4032.62] answer -[4032.62 --> 4033.64] that's alright -[4033.64 --> 4034.94] that's the -[4034.94 --> 4035.54] Holy Spirit -[4035.54 --> 4036.96] working in you -[4036.96 --> 4037.84] right you also -[4037.84 --> 4038.82] don't need any -[4038.82 --> 4039.76] other explanation -[4039.76 --> 4041.18] the Holy Spirit -[4041.18 --> 4042.12] confirms it -[4042.12 --> 4046.56] now of course -[4046.56 --> 4046.96] in your -[4046.96 --> 4047.52] conversation -[4047.52 --> 4048.18] the person -[4048.18 --> 4048.70] who asks you -[4048.70 --> 4049.16] that's not -[4049.16 --> 4049.88] going to make -[4049.88 --> 4050.58] sense to the -[4050.58 --> 4051.02] unbeliever -[4051.02 --> 4051.46] that's not -[4051.46 --> 4052.28] going to add -[4052.28 --> 4052.72] up to the -[4052.72 --> 4053.18] person who -[4053.18 --> 4053.88] doesn't yet -[4053.88 --> 4054.50] have the -[4054.50 --> 4055.24] Holy Spirit -[4055.24 --> 4056.98] but when you -[4056.98 --> 4057.68] say you have -[4057.68 --> 4059.02] to be -[4059.02 --> 4060.54] that it's -[4060.54 --> 4061.48] your conscience -[4061.48 --> 4063.40] being confirmed -[4063.40 --> 4064.16] by the word -[4064.16 --> 4065.76] of the Holy Spirit -[4065.76 --> 4069.02] then Paul -[4069.02 --> 4070.86] invites us -[4070.86 --> 4071.76] into the -[4071.76 --> 4072.48] anguish -[4072.48 --> 4073.70] of his -[4073.70 --> 4074.60] heart -[4074.60 --> 4074.90] right -[4074.90 --> 4075.78] the sorrow -[4075.78 --> 4076.52] of his -[4076.52 --> 4076.92] soul -[4076.92 --> 4079.24] sometimes -[4079.24 --> 4080.36] a lot of -[4080.36 --> 4080.78] here people -[4080.78 --> 4081.54] talk about -[4081.54 --> 4082.56] the writings -[4082.56 --> 4082.88] of the -[4082.88 --> 4083.70] Apostle Paul -[4083.70 --> 4085.16] or even -[4085.16 --> 4086.16] just reading -[4086.16 --> 4086.70] the Bible -[4086.70 --> 4087.36] generally -[4087.36 --> 4088.34] as a kind -[4088.34 --> 4089.02] of dry -[4089.02 --> 4089.86] and dusty -[4089.86 --> 4090.54] book -[4090.54 --> 4092.28] that's not -[4092.28 --> 4092.60] what we -[4092.60 --> 4093.10] do here -[4093.10 --> 4094.68] right here -[4094.68 --> 4095.04] is a -[4095.04 --> 4095.62] heartbroken -[4095.62 --> 4096.46] man who -[4096.46 --> 4097.30] betrayed all -[4097.30 --> 4097.86] the promises -[4097.86 --> 4098.90] of God -[4098.90 --> 4099.90] who betrayed -[4099.90 --> 4100.66] all the truths -[4100.66 --> 4101.20] that he had -[4101.20 --> 4101.74] received -[4101.74 --> 4102.72] who betrayed -[4102.72 --> 4104.02] his very own -[4104.02 --> 4104.66] encounter -[4104.66 --> 4105.60] with the -[4105.60 --> 4106.66] living Jesus -[4106.66 --> 4107.84] onto Damascus -[4107.84 --> 4108.06] road -[4108.06 --> 4108.54] who betrayed -[4108.54 --> 4109.44] all of that -[4109.44 --> 4110.18] to save -[4110.18 --> 4110.70] his brothers -[4110.70 --> 4111.26] and sisters -[4111.26 --> 4112.24] right this -[4112.24 --> 4113.20] is a profound -[4113.20 --> 4114.08] love -[4114.08 --> 4114.60] there's nothing -[4114.60 --> 4115.84] dry or dusty -[4115.84 --> 4116.40] about the -[4116.40 --> 4117.22] Apostle Paul -[4117.22 --> 4117.82] here -[4117.82 --> 4118.88] he says -[4118.88 --> 4119.80] for I -[4119.80 --> 4120.64] wish that I -[4120.64 --> 4121.20] myself -[4121.20 --> 4121.88] were cursed -[4121.88 --> 4122.68] and cut off -[4122.68 --> 4123.22] from Christ -[4123.22 --> 4123.66] for the -[4123.66 --> 4124.70] sake of my -[4124.70 --> 4125.66] own people -[4125.66 --> 4126.98] those of -[4126.98 --> 4127.66] my own -[4127.66 --> 4128.72] sin -[4128.72 --> 4132.66] and that -[4132.66 --> 4133.42] kind of -[4133.42 --> 4134.02] heart -[4134.02 --> 4135.26] for people -[4135.26 --> 4135.86] to know -[4135.86 --> 4136.40] Christ -[4136.40 --> 4137.56] is so -[4137.56 --> 4138.60] compelling -[4138.60 --> 4143.00] and let's -[4143.00 --> 4143.36] have the -[4143.36 --> 4143.80] opportunity -[4143.80 --> 4145.66] to talk -[4145.66 --> 4145.98] to -[4145.98 --> 4146.98] someone -[4146.98 --> 4147.18] who -[4147.18 --> 4147.30] had -[4147.30 --> 4147.66] become -[4147.66 --> 4148.04] the -[4148.04 --> 4148.90] head -[4148.90 --> 4149.08] of -[4149.08 --> 4149.20] a -[4149.20 --> 4149.58] missionary -[4149.58 --> 4150.22] agency -[4150.22 --> 4153.26] before that -[4153.26 --> 4153.66] he had -[4153.66 --> 4154.48] served -[4154.48 --> 4154.94] in -[4154.94 --> 4155.40] Nepal -[4155.40 --> 4156.78] now in -[4156.78 --> 4157.22] Nepal -[4157.22 --> 4159.16] if you -[4159.16 --> 4159.92] convert to -[4159.92 --> 4160.54] Christianity -[4160.54 --> 4162.58] or if you -[4162.58 --> 4163.06] talk to -[4163.06 --> 4163.72] people about -[4163.72 --> 4164.48] converting to -[4164.48 --> 4164.98] Christianity -[4164.98 --> 4166.16] you will -[4166.16 --> 4167.30] receive up to -[4167.30 --> 4168.18] five years in -[4168.18 --> 4169.44] prison and a -[4169.44 --> 4170.94] $50,000 in -[4170.94 --> 4171.30] Polly -[4171.30 --> 4171.92] Ruby -[4171.92 --> 4173.56] fine that -[4173.56 --> 4173.90] works up -[4173.90 --> 4174.50] about $700 -[4174.50 --> 4175.18] a day -[4175.18 --> 4177.18] if you're a -[4177.18 --> 4178.06] foreign national -[4178.06 --> 4179.10] who does that -[4179.10 --> 4179.86] you will be -[4179.86 --> 4180.40] deported -[4180.40 --> 4181.24] immediately -[4181.24 --> 4183.20] and your visa -[4183.20 --> 4183.64] will be -[4183.64 --> 4184.02] permanent -[4184.02 --> 4184.54] suspended -[4184.54 --> 4186.34] the last -[4186.34 --> 4187.22] time this -[4187.22 --> 4188.26] man went -[4188.26 --> 4189.40] to Nepal -[4189.40 --> 4190.18] he was -[4190.18 --> 4190.68] kicked out -[4190.68 --> 4190.94] of the -[4190.94 --> 4191.26] country -[4191.26 --> 4193.36] and that's -[4193.36 --> 4193.64] why he -[4193.64 --> 4193.96] took the -[4193.96 --> 4194.34] job -[4194.34 --> 4195.10] of being -[4195.10 --> 4195.60] ahead of -[4195.60 --> 4195.68] the -[4195.68 --> 4195.98] people -[4195.98 --> 4196.96] and as -[4196.96 --> 4197.26] he and -[4197.26 --> 4197.54] I were -[4197.54 --> 4198.12] talking -[4198.12 --> 4199.10] his heart -[4199.10 --> 4199.94] was breaking -[4199.94 --> 4200.84] from these -[4200.84 --> 4201.28] Nepalese -[4201.28 --> 4201.70] people -[4201.70 --> 4203.10] and there -[4203.10 --> 4203.58] he was -[4203.58 --> 4204.54] through tears -[4204.54 --> 4206.04] wishing that -[4206.04 --> 4206.48] he could go -[4206.48 --> 4206.92] back to -[4206.92 --> 4207.06] them -[4207.06 --> 4208.10] wishing that -[4208.10 --> 4208.62] he could be -[4208.62 --> 4209.24] in their midst -[4209.24 --> 4209.70] again -[4209.70 --> 4211.06] sharing Jesus -[4211.06 --> 4212.28] revealing God -[4212.28 --> 4215.10] and let's -[4215.10 --> 4215.94] be honest -[4215.94 --> 4216.18] right -[4216.18 --> 4217.34] maybe it's -[4217.34 --> 4217.88] not as -[4217.88 --> 4218.62] far reaching -[4218.62 --> 4219.00] as -[4219.00 --> 4219.46] global -[4219.46 --> 4219.94] missions -[4219.94 --> 4220.74] to the -[4220.74 --> 4221.06] Nepal -[4221.06 --> 4221.38] and -[4221.38 --> 4221.96] unreached -[4221.96 --> 4222.32] people -[4222.32 --> 4222.74] groups -[4222.74 --> 4223.86] maybe it's -[4223.86 --> 4224.28] closer to -[4224.28 --> 4224.52] home -[4224.52 --> 4226.86] or maybe -[4226.86 --> 4227.24] as you're -[4227.24 --> 4227.80] sitting here -[4227.80 --> 4228.18] you're thinking -[4228.18 --> 4228.60] about your -[4228.60 --> 4228.98] friends -[4228.98 --> 4229.86] and your -[4229.86 --> 4230.60] heart breaks -[4230.60 --> 4231.14] for your -[4231.14 --> 4231.72] friends to -[4231.72 --> 4232.36] know Jesus -[4232.36 --> 4233.00] in the way -[4233.00 --> 4233.84] that you do -[4233.84 --> 4235.50] we got a little -[4235.50 --> 4236.08] glimpse of that -[4236.08 --> 4236.58] last week -[4236.58 --> 4237.02] when Isaac -[4237.02 --> 4237.64] stood up here -[4237.64 --> 4238.04] in front of -[4238.04 --> 4238.16] us -[4238.16 --> 4238.66] driving and -[4238.66 --> 4238.92] shared -[4238.92 --> 4239.68] his testimony -[4239.68 --> 4240.32] and his -[4240.32 --> 4241.04] longing for -[4241.04 --> 4241.58] others to -[4241.58 --> 4242.32] see the same -[4242.32 --> 4243.00] that he is -[4243.00 --> 4243.72] seeing God -[4243.72 --> 4245.04] what a beautiful -[4245.04 --> 4245.42] thing -[4245.42 --> 4245.86] and again -[4245.86 --> 4247.82] thank you for -[4247.82 --> 4248.12] sharing -[4248.12 --> 4250.20] that we -[4250.20 --> 4250.94] want these -[4250.94 --> 4251.58] people in -[4251.58 --> 4252.40] our lives -[4252.40 --> 4253.78] to know -[4253.78 --> 4254.70] Jesus -[4254.70 --> 4256.26] and parents -[4256.26 --> 4256.60] right -[4256.60 --> 4256.96] you know -[4256.96 --> 4257.34] this too -[4257.34 --> 4258.42] maybe some -[4258.42 --> 4258.70] of your -[4258.70 --> 4259.22] kids have -[4259.22 --> 4259.86] left church -[4259.86 --> 4261.48] or maybe -[4261.48 --> 4262.14] some of them -[4262.14 --> 4262.90] are in -[4262.90 --> 4263.44] university -[4263.44 --> 4264.06] right now -[4264.06 --> 4265.06] and you're -[4265.06 --> 4265.90] really concerned -[4265.90 --> 4266.42] for their -[4266.42 --> 4267.28] faith life -[4267.28 --> 4267.72] or their -[4267.72 --> 4268.28] lack of -[4268.28 --> 4268.46] their -[4268.46 --> 4268.94] expressed -[4268.94 --> 4270.16] faith life -[4270.16 --> 4271.44] you know -[4271.44 --> 4271.86] this -[4271.86 --> 4272.76] longing -[4272.76 --> 4274.08] you know -[4274.08 --> 4274.70] this -[4274.70 --> 4276.04] desire -[4276.04 --> 4285.22] the truth -[4285.22 --> 4288.12] the truth -[4288.12 --> 4288.62] that breaks -[4288.62 --> 4289.38] my heart -[4289.38 --> 4293.68] is that some -[4293.68 --> 4293.92] of you -[4293.92 --> 4294.48] sitting here -[4294.48 --> 4295.04] right now -[4295.04 --> 4296.92] are asking -[4296.92 --> 4297.46] these questions -[4297.46 --> 4298.18] for yourself -[4298.18 --> 4299.84] but you'll -[4299.84 --> 4300.28] never ask -[4300.28 --> 4300.44] that -[4300.44 --> 4300.74] out -[4300.74 --> 4302.66] you'll -[4302.66 --> 4303.08] never reach -[4303.08 --> 4303.36] out -[4303.36 --> 4304.80] and talk -[4304.80 --> 4305.12] to someone -[4305.12 --> 4307.30] the truth -[4307.30 --> 4307.76] that breaks -[4307.76 --> 4308.34] my heart -[4308.34 --> 4308.68] and I'm -[4308.68 --> 4308.74] going to -[4308.74 --> 4309.16] repeat -[4309.16 --> 4309.56] so you -[4309.56 --> 4310.36] stand here -[4310.36 --> 4310.82] in worship -[4310.82 --> 4311.30] together -[4311.30 --> 4311.94] is that -[4311.94 --> 4313.32] some of you -[4313.32 --> 4313.78] are just -[4313.78 --> 4314.28] pretending -[4314.28 --> 4318.08] and the truth -[4318.08 --> 4318.52] that breaks -[4318.52 --> 4319.12] my heart -[4319.12 --> 4321.40] is that some -[4321.40 --> 4321.90] of you have -[4321.90 --> 4322.60] never even -[4322.60 --> 4323.42] thought for one -[4323.42 --> 4323.76] year -[4323.76 --> 4325.78] is this -[4325.78 --> 4326.06] really -[4326.06 --> 4328.48] is this -[4328.48 --> 4328.88] truth -[4328.88 --> 4333.12] in some -[4333.12 --> 4333.52] way -[4333.52 --> 4335.32] we all -[4335.32 --> 4335.80] know -[4335.80 --> 4336.16] this -[4336.16 --> 4336.68] longing -[4336.68 --> 4337.54] of all -[4337.54 --> 4338.92] and in -[4338.92 --> 4339.22] some -[4339.22 --> 4339.58] way -[4339.58 --> 4340.58] our hearts -[4340.58 --> 4341.78] are breaking -[4341.78 --> 4342.68] in this -[4342.68 --> 4343.30] manner -[4343.30 --> 4344.02] and we -[4344.02 --> 4345.34] can understand -[4345.34 --> 4346.16] why Paul -[4346.16 --> 4347.22] is crying -[4347.22 --> 4347.60] out -[4347.60 --> 4347.98] because -[4347.98 --> 4349.18] day after -[4349.18 --> 4349.50] day -[4349.50 --> 4350.94] that is -[4350.94 --> 4351.54] my prayer -[4351.54 --> 4352.08] for -[4352.08 --> 4352.52] the -[4352.52 --> 4352.90] gathering -[4352.90 --> 4353.42] him -[4353.42 --> 4356.42] Paul's -[4356.42 --> 4357.10] longing -[4357.10 --> 4358.06] for his -[4358.06 --> 4358.38] fellow -[4358.38 --> 4358.94] Israelites -[4358.94 --> 4360.86] intensifies -[4360.86 --> 4362.08] as he -[4362.08 --> 4362.78] lists -[4362.78 --> 4363.56] the reasons -[4363.56 --> 4364.32] why they -[4364.32 --> 4365.02] really should -[4365.02 --> 4365.84] know that -[4365.84 --> 4366.14] that's what -[4366.14 --> 4366.54] he does -[4366.54 --> 4367.34] next -[4367.34 --> 4368.68] right -[4368.68 --> 4369.12] as he -[4369.12 --> 4370.38] shows -[4370.38 --> 4371.10] why they -[4371.10 --> 4371.46] should -[4371.46 --> 4371.92] have -[4371.92 --> 4372.84] recognized -[4372.84 --> 4373.56] Jesus -[4373.56 --> 4374.74] notice -[4374.74 --> 4375.12] in verse -[4375.12 --> 4375.62] 4 -[4375.62 --> 4376.14] he says -[4376.14 --> 4376.98] theirs -[4376.98 --> 4377.76] is the -[4377.76 --> 4378.30] adoption -[4378.30 --> 4378.70] to -[4378.70 --> 4379.20] sonship -[4379.20 --> 4379.70] theirs -[4379.70 --> 4380.26] is the -[4380.26 --> 4380.70] divine -[4380.70 --> 4381.46] glory -[4381.46 --> 4381.76] the -[4381.76 --> 4382.16] covenant -[4382.16 --> 4382.58] the -[4382.58 --> 4383.02] receiving -[4383.02 --> 4383.24] of -[4383.24 --> 4383.36] the -[4383.36 --> 4383.68] law -[4383.68 --> 4383.88] the -[4383.88 --> 4384.14] temple -[4384.14 --> 4384.52] worship -[4384.52 --> 4384.82] and the -[4384.82 --> 4385.20] promises -[4385.20 --> 4386.14] theirs -[4386.14 --> 4386.54] are the -[4386.54 --> 4387.30] patriarchs -[4387.30 --> 4387.76] and from -[4387.76 --> 4388.08] them -[4388.08 --> 4388.28] he -[4388.28 --> 4388.56] raised -[4388.56 --> 4388.76] the -[4388.76 --> 4389.06] human -[4389.06 --> 4389.68] ancestry -[4389.68 --> 4390.48] of the -[4390.48 --> 4390.92] Messiah -[4390.92 --> 4393.12] and they -[4393.12 --> 4393.28] have -[4393.28 --> 4393.64] every -[4393.64 --> 4394.40] opportunity -[4394.40 --> 4395.44] to see -[4395.44 --> 4396.14] and to -[4396.14 --> 4396.58] know -[4396.58 --> 4398.16] and in -[4398.16 --> 4399.00] some way -[4399.00 --> 4399.42] right -[4399.42 --> 4399.74] again -[4399.74 --> 4400.00] we'll come -[4400.00 --> 4400.38] back to -[4400.38 --> 4401.24] parents -[4401.24 --> 4401.50] and -[4401.50 --> 4402.86] Christian -[4402.86 --> 4403.36] parents -[4403.36 --> 4403.54] of -[4403.54 --> 4404.08] children -[4404.08 --> 4404.48] right -[4404.48 --> 4405.54] this is -[4405.54 --> 4405.76] our -[4405.76 --> 4406.70] reality -[4406.70 --> 4408.40] our -[4408.40 --> 4408.62] kids -[4408.62 --> 4408.70] our -[4408.70 --> 4409.12] kids -[4409.12 --> 4409.78] are -[4409.78 --> 4409.84] baptized -[4409.84 --> 4410.02] into -[4410.02 --> 4410.22] a -[4410.22 --> 4410.52] covenant -[4410.52 --> 4411.06] community -[4411.06 --> 4412.26] they're -[4412.26 --> 4412.86] raised -[4412.86 --> 4413.26] in -[4413.26 --> 4413.60] the -[4413.60 --> 4413.96] truths -[4413.96 --> 4414.14] of -[4414.14 --> 4414.26] the -[4414.26 --> 4414.66] promises -[4414.66 --> 4414.90] of -[4414.90 --> 4415.02] the -[4415.02 --> 4415.38] forgiveness -[4415.38 --> 4415.68] of -[4415.68 --> 4416.10] God -[4416.10 --> 4416.60] that are -[4416.60 --> 4416.84] coming -[4416.84 --> 4417.46] by grace -[4417.46 --> 4417.96] and faith -[4417.96 --> 4418.24] and they -[4418.24 --> 4418.80] are taught -[4418.80 --> 4419.36] that over -[4419.36 --> 4419.86] and over -[4419.86 --> 4420.26] and over -[4420.26 --> 4420.66] again -[4420.66 --> 4421.10] from -[4421.10 --> 4422.36] jeds and cadets -[4422.36 --> 4422.84] to Sunday -[4422.84 --> 4423.20] school -[4423.20 --> 4423.70] to youth -[4423.70 --> 4424.02] groups -[4424.02 --> 4425.48] to gatherings -[4425.48 --> 4426.60] in small groups -[4426.60 --> 4427.26] and characters -[4427.26 --> 4428.00] and the like -[4428.00 --> 4428.82] they worship -[4428.82 --> 4429.30] with us -[4429.30 --> 4430.22] every week -[4430.22 --> 4431.72] maybe they even -[4431.72 --> 4432.50] come into your -[4432.50 --> 4433.48] home and talk -[4433.48 --> 4434.34] about life -[4434.34 --> 4434.86] and faith -[4434.86 --> 4435.52] with the -[4435.52 --> 4435.84] baby -[4435.84 --> 4436.46] they even -[4436.46 --> 4436.80] go to -[4436.80 --> 4437.32] kindergarten -[4437.32 --> 4437.84] to -[4437.84 --> 4438.70] grade 12 -[4438.70 --> 4438.94] to -[4438.94 --> 4439.26] Christian -[4439.26 --> 4439.72] school -[4439.72 --> 4440.74] but now -[4440.74 --> 4441.60] for whatever -[4441.60 --> 4442.12] reason -[4442.12 --> 4442.92] they're just -[4442.92 --> 4443.74] not practicing -[4443.74 --> 4444.36] the faith -[4444.36 --> 4444.92] that they -[4444.92 --> 4445.46] were raised -[4445.46 --> 4445.74] in -[4445.74 --> 4446.50] the faith -[4446.50 --> 4446.90] of their -[4446.90 --> 4447.28] youth -[4447.28 --> 4448.48] not believing -[4448.48 --> 4450.44] does that -[4450.44 --> 4450.92] mean -[4450.92 --> 4452.04] that the -[4452.04 --> 4452.60] promises of -[4452.60 --> 4452.98] baptism -[4452.98 --> 4453.60] have failed -[4453.60 --> 4455.92] right -[4455.92 --> 4456.28] that's the -[4456.28 --> 4456.76] question -[4456.76 --> 4457.80] right -[4457.80 --> 4458.50] to put it -[4458.50 --> 4459.20] into our -[4459.20 --> 4459.70] context -[4459.70 --> 4460.76] that's the -[4460.76 --> 4461.22] exact -[4461.22 --> 4461.92] same -[4461.92 --> 4462.70] question -[4462.70 --> 4463.52] right -[4463.52 --> 4464.20] since there -[4464.20 --> 4464.82] are some -[4464.82 --> 4465.22] who are -[4465.22 --> 4466.14] clearly raised -[4466.14 --> 4466.76] with every -[4466.76 --> 4467.52] image of -[4467.52 --> 4467.82] faith -[4467.82 --> 4468.36] and a -[4468.36 --> 4468.80] community -[4468.80 --> 4469.46] you don't -[4469.46 --> 4469.92] end up -[4469.92 --> 4470.40] believing -[4470.40 --> 4471.34] does that -[4471.34 --> 4472.26] mean God -[4472.26 --> 4473.90] has faith -[4473.90 --> 4479.34] when we put it -[4479.34 --> 4479.90] that way -[4479.90 --> 4481.72] I trust you -[4481.72 --> 4482.46] can see and -[4482.46 --> 4483.06] share all -[4483.06 --> 4483.64] anguish -[4483.64 --> 4487.58] now you can -[4487.58 --> 4488.08] see that this -[4488.08 --> 4489.16] isn't dusty -[4489.16 --> 4489.80] or dry -[4489.80 --> 4490.40] theology -[4490.40 --> 4491.82] right -[4491.82 --> 4492.66] the answer -[4492.66 --> 4493.08] to this -[4493.08 --> 4493.68] question -[4493.68 --> 4495.10] quite literally -[4495.10 --> 4496.28] status is -[4496.28 --> 4497.10] eternity -[4497.10 --> 4500.72] the answer -[4500.72 --> 4501.04] to this -[4501.04 --> 4501.40] question -[4501.40 --> 4501.98] comes -[4501.98 --> 4503.24] to Paul -[4503.24 --> 4504.00] in the -[4504.00 --> 4505.16] focus of -[4505.16 --> 4506.20] God's -[4506.20 --> 4506.88] sovereignty -[4506.88 --> 4509.44] back in -[4509.44 --> 4509.98] Romans 8 -[4509.98 --> 4510.60] 28 -[4510.60 --> 4512.04] we look at -[4512.04 --> 4512.56] God's -[4512.56 --> 4513.06] sovereignty -[4513.06 --> 4513.76] in the -[4513.76 --> 4514.06] world -[4514.06 --> 4515.36] you can read -[4515.36 --> 4515.62] there -[4515.62 --> 4517.04] and we -[4517.04 --> 4517.76] know that -[4517.76 --> 4518.26] in all -[4518.26 --> 4518.66] things -[4518.66 --> 4519.50] God works -[4519.50 --> 4520.64] for those -[4520.64 --> 4521.14] who love -[4521.14 --> 4521.38] him -[4521.38 --> 4521.86] who have -[4521.86 --> 4522.44] been called -[4522.44 --> 4523.14] for him -[4523.14 --> 4523.94] to his -[4523.94 --> 4524.36] purpose -[4524.36 --> 4525.70] and then -[4525.70 --> 4526.24] we saw -[4526.24 --> 4526.96] this order -[4526.96 --> 4527.66] work itself -[4527.66 --> 4527.88] out -[4527.88 --> 4528.30] we saw -[4528.30 --> 4529.22] this activity -[4529.22 --> 4529.88] of God's -[4529.88 --> 4530.30] sovereignty -[4530.30 --> 4531.24] those he -[4531.24 --> 4531.82] predestined -[4531.82 --> 4532.30] he also -[4532.30 --> 4532.74] called -[4532.74 --> 4533.26] those he -[4533.26 --> 4533.56] called -[4533.56 --> 4534.08] he also -[4534.08 --> 4535.00] justified -[4535.00 --> 4535.58] those he -[4535.58 --> 4536.12] justified -[4536.12 --> 4536.92] he also -[4536.92 --> 4538.12] glorified -[4538.12 --> 4539.56] sovereignty -[4539.56 --> 4540.90] is the -[4540.90 --> 4541.60] exercise -[4541.60 --> 4542.58] of God's -[4542.58 --> 4543.24] reign in -[4543.24 --> 4543.80] the world -[4543.80 --> 4545.28] God is -[4545.28 --> 4545.78] who he -[4545.78 --> 4546.22] is -[4546.22 --> 4547.00] and so -[4547.00 --> 4547.86] therefore -[4547.86 --> 4549.00] must be -[4549.00 --> 4549.60] sovereign -[4549.60 --> 4551.10] let me say -[4551.10 --> 4551.44] that again -[4551.44 --> 4552.04] if God -[4552.04 --> 4552.56] is not -[4552.56 --> 4553.18] sovereign -[4553.18 --> 4554.14] if he's -[4554.14 --> 4555.14] not exercising -[4555.14 --> 4555.84] his reign -[4555.84 --> 4556.16] in the -[4556.16 --> 4556.44] world -[4556.44 --> 4557.24] he's not -[4557.24 --> 4557.72] God -[4557.72 --> 4560.30] and then -[4560.30 --> 4561.14] the scope -[4561.14 --> 4562.22] of God's -[4562.22 --> 4562.98] action in -[4562.98 --> 4563.42] the world -[4563.42 --> 4564.02] is both -[4564.02 --> 4564.58] cosmic -[4564.58 --> 4565.38] and -[4565.38 --> 4566.02] microscopic -[4566.02 --> 4567.74] the scope -[4567.74 --> 4568.30] of God's -[4568.30 --> 4568.68] sovereign -[4568.68 --> 4569.42] action in -[4569.42 --> 4569.76] the world -[4569.76 --> 4570.24] is both -[4570.24 --> 4571.24] the major -[4571.24 --> 4572.02] machinations -[4572.02 --> 4573.06] of planets -[4573.06 --> 4574.10] and the -[4574.10 --> 4574.62] small -[4574.62 --> 4575.28] movements -[4575.28 --> 4576.04] of planets -[4576.04 --> 4578.36] and that -[4578.36 --> 4578.72] meaning -[4578.72 --> 4581.52] is also -[4581.52 --> 4582.68] in the -[4582.68 --> 4583.12] hearts -[4583.12 --> 4584.10] of many -[4584.10 --> 4585.14] women -[4585.14 --> 4587.58] part of -[4587.58 --> 4588.04] this first -[4588.04 --> 4588.56] two chapters -[4588.56 --> 4590.14] that grounded -[4590.14 --> 4590.68] us here -[4590.68 --> 4591.32] and has -[4591.32 --> 4591.80] caused us -[4591.80 --> 4592.28] to come to -[4592.28 --> 4592.72] this place -[4592.72 --> 4593.08] with this -[4593.08 --> 4593.52] particular -[4593.52 --> 4594.08] question -[4594.08 --> 4594.88] helps us -[4594.88 --> 4595.32] to see -[4595.32 --> 4596.20] that apart -[4596.20 --> 4597.08] from God -[4597.08 --> 4598.24] first choosing -[4598.24 --> 4598.88] us -[4598.88 --> 4600.54] we stay -[4600.54 --> 4601.52] dead in -[4601.52 --> 4602.78] our sins -[4602.78 --> 4603.70] being -[4603.70 --> 4604.30] dead in -[4604.30 --> 4604.94] our sins -[4604.94 --> 4605.90] means we -[4605.90 --> 4606.68] can't do -[4606.68 --> 4607.40] anything -[4607.40 --> 4608.88] I don't -[4608.88 --> 4609.26] know if -[4609.26 --> 4609.58] you've ever -[4609.58 --> 4610.36] seen a -[4610.36 --> 4610.90] dead body -[4610.90 --> 4612.26] but they -[4612.26 --> 4612.58] don't do -[4612.58 --> 4613.06] anything -[4613.06 --> 4614.56] I'm not -[4614.56 --> 4614.86] trying to -[4614.86 --> 4615.16] crash -[4615.16 --> 4615.54] I don't -[4615.54 --> 4616.30] oversimplify -[4616.30 --> 4616.66] it but -[4616.66 --> 4617.62] the reality -[4617.62 --> 4618.98] is if -[4618.98 --> 4619.52] we are -[4619.52 --> 4619.88] dead -[4619.88 --> 4620.30] there's -[4620.30 --> 4620.64] nothing -[4620.64 --> 4621.08] we can -[4621.08 --> 4621.32] do -[4621.32 --> 4621.72] and the -[4621.72 --> 4622.04] same -[4622.04 --> 4622.90] is true -[4622.90 --> 4624.18] spiritually -[4624.18 --> 4626.12] in the -[4626.12 --> 4626.78] deathliness -[4626.78 --> 4627.66] of our -[4627.66 --> 4628.30] sin -[4628.30 --> 4629.10] we are -[4629.10 --> 4629.72] unable -[4629.72 --> 4630.40] to choose -[4630.40 --> 4631.16] God -[4631.16 --> 4631.84] we cannot -[4631.84 --> 4632.26] raise -[4632.26 --> 4632.88] ourselves -[4632.88 --> 4633.56] to new -[4633.56 --> 4633.94] life -[4633.94 --> 4634.76] we need -[4634.76 --> 4635.18] to be -[4635.18 --> 4635.82] raised -[4635.82 --> 4636.60] to new -[4636.60 --> 4637.02] life -[4637.02 --> 4638.46] or to -[4638.46 --> 4638.80] use -[4638.80 --> 4639.16] the -[4639.16 --> 4639.74] Old Testament -[4639.74 --> 4640.26] tradition -[4640.26 --> 4642.58] before the -[4642.58 --> 4643.00] work of the -[4643.00 --> 4643.64] Holy Spirit -[4643.64 --> 4644.70] our hearts -[4644.70 --> 4645.44] are stoned -[4645.44 --> 4647.28] and the -[4647.28 --> 4647.92] only way -[4647.92 --> 4648.32] to get a -[4648.32 --> 4649.22] heart flesh -[4649.22 --> 4650.16] is for that -[4650.16 --> 4650.92] Holy Spirit -[4650.92 --> 4652.00] to breathe -[4652.00 --> 4652.64] life -[4652.64 --> 4654.08] into you -[4654.08 --> 4655.44] in the -[4655.44 --> 4655.80] beginning -[4655.80 --> 4656.66] God -[4656.66 --> 4657.30] breathes -[4657.30 --> 4657.68] life -[4657.68 --> 4658.08] into -[4658.08 --> 4658.44] Adam -[4658.44 --> 4659.02] and Eve -[4659.02 --> 4659.60] our first -[4659.60 --> 4659.98] parents -[4659.98 --> 4660.26] and when -[4660.26 --> 4660.44] they -[4660.44 --> 4660.82] fell -[4660.82 --> 4661.62] against -[4661.62 --> 4662.20] God -[4662.20 --> 4663.12] they -[4663.12 --> 4663.50] fell -[4663.50 --> 4663.86] into -[4663.86 --> 4664.26] sin -[4664.26 --> 4664.68] and all -[4664.68 --> 4665.16] humanity -[4665.16 --> 4665.60] with them -[4665.60 --> 4666.12] has fallen -[4666.12 --> 4666.76] now into -[4666.76 --> 4667.06] the -[4667.06 --> 4667.62] deathliness -[4667.62 --> 4668.92] of sin -[4668.92 --> 4669.64] and so -[4669.64 --> 4670.22] in our -[4670.22 --> 4671.28] new beginnings -[4671.28 --> 4671.98] our new -[4671.98 --> 4672.32] birth -[4672.32 --> 4672.78] he -[4672.78 --> 4673.20] breathes -[4673.20 --> 4673.74] to breathe -[4673.74 --> 4674.16] life -[4674.16 --> 4674.86] into us -[4674.86 --> 4675.50] afresh -[4675.50 --> 4677.56] and sometimes -[4677.56 --> 4678.16] that happens -[4678.16 --> 4678.78] in a moment -[4678.78 --> 4679.86] right -[4679.86 --> 4680.58] sometimes -[4680.58 --> 4681.50] maybe this -[4681.50 --> 4681.82] is your -[4681.82 --> 4682.38] testimony -[4682.38 --> 4683.28] you wake -[4683.28 --> 4683.80] up from -[4683.80 --> 4684.36] a slumber -[4684.36 --> 4685.12] of deathliness -[4685.12 --> 4685.68] and sin -[4685.68 --> 4686.02] with an -[4686.02 --> 4686.66] immediacy -[4686.66 --> 4687.48] and a -[4687.48 --> 4687.86] newness -[4687.86 --> 4688.34] of life -[4688.34 --> 4688.86] and you -[4688.86 --> 4690.30] are amazing -[4690.30 --> 4690.78] and your -[4690.78 --> 4691.38] testimony -[4691.38 --> 4692.22] and life -[4692.22 --> 4692.90] transformed -[4692.90 --> 4694.18] is amazing -[4694.18 --> 4695.42] and obvious -[4695.42 --> 4696.26] and drastic -[4696.26 --> 4697.58] and so clear -[4697.58 --> 4698.02] for everyone -[4698.02 --> 4698.46] to see -[4698.46 --> 4700.34] and sometimes -[4700.34 --> 4701.38] in fact -[4701.38 --> 4702.68] more often -[4702.68 --> 4703.64] than the -[4703.64 --> 4704.04] other day -[4704.04 --> 4705.96] sometimes -[4705.96 --> 4707.24] that waking -[4707.24 --> 4707.52] up -[4707.52 --> 4708.04] that new -[4708.04 --> 4708.64] and new -[4708.64 --> 4708.96] life -[4708.96 --> 4709.74] happens over -[4709.74 --> 4710.18] the course -[4710.18 --> 4710.66] of a period -[4710.66 --> 4711.28] of time -[4711.28 --> 4711.78] right -[4711.78 --> 4712.66] whether it's -[4712.66 --> 4714.04] just a -[4714.04 --> 4714.38] moment -[4714.38 --> 4714.90] or a -[4714.90 --> 4715.26] process -[4715.26 --> 4715.90] that takes -[4715.90 --> 4716.60] 20 or -[4716.60 --> 4717.54] 25 or -[4717.54 --> 4718.12] 30 or -[4718.12 --> 4719.04] 40 years -[4719.04 --> 4719.50] right -[4719.50 --> 4720.18] whether it's -[4720.18 --> 4720.54] a need -[4720.54 --> 4721.20] or it -[4721.20 --> 4721.64] takes a -[4721.64 --> 4721.98] lifetime -[4721.98 --> 4723.22] it's still -[4723.22 --> 4724.02] a miracle -[4724.02 --> 4724.96] of God -[4724.96 --> 4725.76] transforming -[4725.76 --> 4726.66] us into -[4726.66 --> 4727.36] newness -[4727.36 --> 4728.36] of life -[4728.36 --> 4729.62] he -[4729.62 --> 4730.38] must -[4730.38 --> 4731.48] do it -[4731.48 --> 4733.32] and so -[4733.32 --> 4734.02] right -[4734.02 --> 4735.24] Paul is -[4735.24 --> 4735.72] on this -[4735.72 --> 4736.14] journey -[4736.14 --> 4736.44] of -[4736.44 --> 4737.16] exposition -[4737.16 --> 4737.66] revealing -[4737.66 --> 4738.20] to us -[4738.20 --> 4738.76] just -[4738.76 --> 4739.24] exactly -[4739.24 --> 4739.72] who God -[4739.72 --> 4740.02] is -[4740.02 --> 4740.30] and what -[4740.30 --> 4740.52] he's -[4740.52 --> 4741.08] doing -[4741.08 --> 4741.48] and how -[4741.48 --> 4741.80] he has -[4741.80 --> 4742.86] done it -[4742.86 --> 4743.82] he's -[4743.82 --> 4744.42] anticipating -[4744.42 --> 4745.22] the question -[4745.22 --> 4746.30] of Israel -[4746.30 --> 4747.18] not the -[4747.18 --> 4747.46] human -[4747.46 --> 4748.22] in the -[4748.22 --> 4748.64] Messiah -[4748.64 --> 4749.14] even though -[4749.14 --> 4749.60] they had -[4749.60 --> 4750.56] all the -[4750.56 --> 4751.34] advantages -[4751.34 --> 4753.52] right -[4753.52 --> 4753.74] he's -[4753.74 --> 4754.28] anticipating -[4754.28 --> 4754.90] the question -[4754.90 --> 4755.32] that we -[4755.32 --> 4755.60] have -[4755.60 --> 4757.36] didn't I -[4757.36 --> 4757.58] do -[4757.58 --> 4758.10] everything -[4758.10 --> 4758.88] in the -[4758.88 --> 4758.90] time -[4758.90 --> 4760.00] why -[4760.00 --> 4760.22] do -[4760.22 --> 4760.50] they -[4760.50 --> 4760.82] believe -[4760.82 --> 4763.22] he's -[4763.22 --> 4763.82] anticipating -[4763.82 --> 4765.32] the response -[4765.32 --> 4766.22] to the -[4766.22 --> 4766.58] anguish -[4766.58 --> 4766.82] of our -[4766.82 --> 4767.20] hearts -[4767.20 --> 4767.98] God -[4767.98 --> 4768.54] he -[4768.54 --> 4769.06] claims -[4769.06 --> 4770.72] he -[4770.72 --> 4771.42] clarifies -[4771.42 --> 4771.64] he -[4771.64 --> 4772.88] says -[4772.88 --> 4774.98] for not -[4774.98 --> 4775.72] all who -[4775.72 --> 4775.88] are -[4775.88 --> 4776.34] descended -[4776.34 --> 4776.78] from -[4776.78 --> 4777.32] Israel -[4777.32 --> 4777.78] are -[4777.78 --> 4778.26] Israel -[4778.26 --> 4779.18] nor -[4779.18 --> 4779.62] because -[4779.62 --> 4779.82] they -[4779.82 --> 4779.96] are -[4779.96 --> 4780.14] his -[4780.14 --> 4780.52] descendants -[4780.52 --> 4780.92] are they -[4780.92 --> 4781.10] all -[4781.10 --> 4781.64] Abraham's -[4781.64 --> 4781.98] children -[4781.98 --> 4783.06] it -[4783.06 --> 4787.10] is not -[4787.10 --> 4787.30] the -[4787.30 --> 4787.68] children -[4787.68 --> 4788.00] who are -[4788.00 --> 4788.54] physical -[4788.54 --> 4789.00] descent -[4789.00 --> 4789.40] to our -[4789.40 --> 4789.72] God's -[4789.72 --> 4790.02] children -[4790.02 --> 4790.78] but it -[4790.78 --> 4791.08] is the -[4791.08 --> 4791.48] children -[4791.48 --> 4792.16] from -[4792.16 --> 4792.66] who are -[4792.66 --> 4792.78] the -[4792.78 --> 4793.06] garden -[4793.06 --> 4793.40] of -[4793.40 --> 4793.78] Abraham -[4793.78 --> 4794.82] also -[4794.82 --> 4797.42] remember -[4797.42 --> 4798.94] or here -[4798.94 --> 4800.20] Abraham -[4800.20 --> 4800.96] had two -[4800.96 --> 4801.32] sons -[4801.32 --> 4802.52] Isaac -[4802.52 --> 4803.84] and Ishmael -[4803.84 --> 4804.60] Isaac -[4804.60 --> 4805.14] born to -[4805.14 --> 4805.42] Sarah -[4805.42 --> 4806.26] and Ishmael -[4806.26 --> 4806.74] born to -[4806.74 --> 4807.10] Hagar -[4807.10 --> 4808.44] the promise -[4808.44 --> 4809.12] is offered -[4809.12 --> 4810.40] to Isaac -[4810.40 --> 4811.22] and not -[4811.22 --> 4811.84] to Ishmael -[4811.84 --> 4813.46] the whole -[4813.46 --> 4813.86] point is -[4813.86 --> 4814.72] just because -[4814.72 --> 4815.14] you are -[4815.14 --> 4816.16] a descendant -[4816.16 --> 4817.00] of Abraham -[4817.00 --> 4818.12] does not -[4818.12 --> 4818.88] mean you -[4818.88 --> 4820.18] receive the -[4820.18 --> 4820.70] promise -[4820.70 --> 4821.40] in him -[4821.40 --> 4822.30] it's not -[4822.30 --> 4822.94] automatic -[4822.94 --> 4823.34] at least -[4823.34 --> 4823.74] it's not -[4823.74 --> 4824.26] automatic -[4824.26 --> 4824.80] by virtue -[4824.80 --> 4825.32] of birth -[4825.32 --> 4827.52] he makes -[4827.52 --> 4827.98] the same -[4827.98 --> 4828.96] point again -[4828.96 --> 4829.36] he uses -[4829.36 --> 4829.66] another -[4829.66 --> 4830.32] example -[4830.32 --> 4832.18] of Isaac -[4832.18 --> 4832.62] and -[4832.62 --> 4833.04] Rebecca -[4833.04 --> 4834.20] children -[4834.20 --> 4835.96] here -[4835.96 --> 4836.86] it's even -[4836.86 --> 4837.16] more -[4837.16 --> 4837.88] difficult -[4837.88 --> 4838.28] notice -[4838.28 --> 4839.68] verse 11 -[4839.68 --> 4841.38] God's -[4841.38 --> 4842.12] choice -[4842.12 --> 4843.42] to bless -[4843.42 --> 4844.20] Jacob -[4844.20 --> 4845.16] and not -[4845.16 --> 4845.88] Esau -[4845.88 --> 4847.20] was made -[4847.20 --> 4848.42] before -[4848.42 --> 4848.68] the -[4848.68 --> 4848.96] sons -[4848.96 --> 4849.50] were born -[4849.50 --> 4851.54] it was -[4851.54 --> 4852.06] made -[4852.06 --> 4852.66] before -[4852.66 --> 4853.08] they had -[4853.08 --> 4853.30] done -[4853.30 --> 4853.88] anything -[4853.88 --> 4854.46] good -[4854.46 --> 4855.92] or bad -[4855.92 --> 4858.24] in fact -[4858.24 --> 4858.68] it was -[4858.68 --> 4859.30] made -[4859.30 --> 4860.30] not even -[4860.30 --> 4861.02] from the -[4861.02 --> 4862.00] mind of -[4862.00 --> 4862.24] God -[4862.24 --> 4862.54] that said -[4862.54 --> 4862.94] I knew -[4862.94 --> 4863.46] what choice -[4863.46 --> 4863.74] they would -[4863.74 --> 4864.26] have made -[4864.26 --> 4864.80] good or -[4864.80 --> 4865.08] bad -[4865.08 --> 4866.64] instead -[4866.64 --> 4868.16] it happened -[4868.16 --> 4869.64] in order -[4869.64 --> 4870.50] that God's -[4870.50 --> 4870.82] purpose -[4870.82 --> 4871.34] and election -[4871.34 --> 4872.30] might stand -[4872.30 --> 4872.98] and that he -[4872.98 --> 4873.54] lists that -[4873.54 --> 4874.02] purpose -[4874.02 --> 4875.26] that it's -[4875.26 --> 4876.04] not by -[4876.04 --> 4876.68] worse -[4876.68 --> 4877.86] but by -[4877.86 --> 4878.30] him -[4878.30 --> 4878.80] who -[4878.80 --> 4879.38] calls -[4879.38 --> 4880.78] that is -[4880.78 --> 4881.30] to say -[4881.30 --> 4882.96] not -[4882.96 --> 4883.36] a team -[4883.36 --> 4885.70] it's God's -[4885.70 --> 4886.00] sovereign -[4886.00 --> 4886.42] choice -[4886.42 --> 4890.20] no -[4890.20 --> 4892.54] if you -[4892.54 --> 4892.64] were -[4892.64 --> 4892.96] tracking -[4892.96 --> 4893.28] with -[4893.28 --> 4895.02] and you -[4895.02 --> 4895.70] hear that -[4895.70 --> 4897.20] I know -[4897.20 --> 4897.66] there is -[4897.66 --> 4898.26] temptation -[4898.26 --> 4899.06] to say -[4899.06 --> 4900.24] how is -[4900.24 --> 4900.66] that -[4900.66 --> 4901.18] fair -[4901.18 --> 4902.54] that's -[4902.54 --> 4902.78] not -[4902.78 --> 4903.22] fair -[4903.22 --> 4904.78] and you -[4904.78 --> 4905.04] know what -[4905.04 --> 4905.28] we're going -[4905.28 --> 4905.56] to have -[4905.56 --> 4906.00] the cabinet -[4906.00 --> 4906.38] for that -[4906.38 --> 4912.42] but for -[4912.42 --> 4912.66] real -[4912.66 --> 4914.88] this is -[4914.88 --> 4915.34] hard -[4915.34 --> 4918.00] Tim Keller -[4918.00 --> 4918.90] in his -[4918.90 --> 4919.68] commentary -[4919.68 --> 4920.00] on the -[4920.00 --> 4920.26] text -[4920.26 --> 4920.50] says -[4920.50 --> 4920.76] this -[4920.76 --> 4922.26] teaching -[4922.26 --> 4922.80] is easy -[4922.80 --> 4923.66] to understand -[4923.66 --> 4925.06] but not -[4925.06 --> 4925.34] easy -[4925.34 --> 4925.98] to accept -[4925.98 --> 4929.04] how -[4929.04 --> 4929.60] do you -[4929.60 --> 4930.28] make it -[4930.28 --> 4930.98] make sense -[4930.98 --> 4933.88] it's hard -[4933.88 --> 4935.34] in our hearts -[4935.34 --> 4937.64] it's hard in our hearts -[4937.64 --> 4939.26] because -[4939.26 --> 4940.46] theology -[4940.46 --> 4941.26] isn't -[4941.26 --> 4941.90] divorced -[4941.90 --> 4943.06] from the people -[4943.06 --> 4944.10] in our lives -[4944.10 --> 4948.68] our hearts -[4948.68 --> 4949.30] broke in -[4949.30 --> 4949.62] and I'm -[4949.62 --> 4949.88] giving -[4949.88 --> 4950.28] our -[4950.28 --> 4950.76] truth -[4950.76 --> 4952.92] because of -[4952.92 --> 4953.36] our sons -[4953.36 --> 4953.82] and our -[4953.82 --> 4955.86] friends -[4955.86 --> 4957.04] and our -[4957.04 --> 4957.28] friends -[4957.28 --> 4957.78] and our -[4957.78 --> 4957.90] friends -[4957.90 --> 4958.50] and our -[4958.50 --> 4958.78] friends -[4958.78 --> 4966.00] and I'm not -[4966.00 --> 4966.38] sure -[4966.38 --> 4968.78] that at this -[4968.78 --> 4969.48] point I want -[4969.48 --> 4969.72] you to -[4969.72 --> 4970.62] alleviate that -[4970.62 --> 4974.42] probably -[4974.42 --> 4975.00] some -[4975.00 --> 4976.38] maturing -[4976.38 --> 4976.80] wisdom -[4976.80 --> 4977.46] in the city -[4977.46 --> 4978.12] in the back -[4978.12 --> 4979.38] for a moment -[4979.38 --> 4981.88] but -[4981.88 --> 4983.24] as we -[4983.24 --> 4983.78] include our -[4983.78 --> 4984.34] time together -[4984.34 --> 4984.88] let me -[4984.88 --> 4986.00] anticipate -[4986.00 --> 4986.72] some of your -[4986.72 --> 4987.28] questions -[4987.28 --> 4988.60] and then -[4988.60 --> 4989.08] invite you -[4989.08 --> 4989.40] to the -[4989.40 --> 4989.72] conversation -[4989.72 --> 4991.36] so one -[4991.36 --> 4992.26] first question -[4992.26 --> 4993.22] does this -[4993.22 --> 4993.88] mean God -[4993.88 --> 4994.20] is our -[4994.20 --> 4994.52] church -[4994.52 --> 4995.76] does this -[4995.76 --> 4996.40] mean God -[4996.40 --> 4996.90] essentially -[4996.90 --> 4997.70] chooses by -[4997.70 --> 4998.24] flipping a -[4998.24 --> 4998.90] coin or by -[4998.90 --> 4999.50] going eat -[4999.50 --> 5000.36] me money -[5000.36 --> 5000.94] bone -[5000.94 --> 5004.58] absolutely -[5004.58 --> 5005.70] not -[5005.70 --> 5006.76] right -[5006.76 --> 5007.66] Paul is -[5007.66 --> 5008.66] not saying -[5008.66 --> 5009.30] that God -[5009.30 --> 5010.24] has no -[5010.24 --> 5011.22] reasons -[5011.22 --> 5013.14] all we are -[5013.14 --> 5013.78] being told -[5013.78 --> 5014.56] is that God's -[5014.56 --> 5015.18] reasons are -[5015.18 --> 5016.10] not in us -[5016.10 --> 5019.24] right -[5019.24 --> 5019.82] the reasons -[5019.82 --> 5020.48] are not based -[5020.48 --> 5021.20] on you -[5021.20 --> 5023.24] God's -[5023.24 --> 5024.02] reason for -[5024.02 --> 5024.68] choosing is -[5024.68 --> 5025.58] based on him -[5025.58 --> 5026.56] and his -[5026.56 --> 5027.32] glory -[5027.32 --> 5033.86] you may -[5033.86 --> 5034.26] not -[5034.26 --> 5035.68] ever -[5035.68 --> 5036.74] know -[5036.74 --> 5038.80] but he -[5038.80 --> 5039.22] has -[5039.22 --> 5040.36] to know -[5040.36 --> 5040.78] that -[5040.78 --> 5041.38] with -[5041.38 --> 5042.32] certainty -[5042.32 --> 5043.56] and because -[5043.56 --> 5044.26] God is -[5044.26 --> 5044.90] who he is -[5044.90 --> 5045.54] because God -[5045.54 --> 5045.98] is good -[5045.98 --> 5046.86] his reasons -[5046.86 --> 5048.00] are always -[5048.00 --> 5048.86] good -[5048.86 --> 5050.14] and not just -[5050.14 --> 5050.72] good in the -[5050.72 --> 5051.20] way that we -[5051.20 --> 5051.86] use that term -[5051.86 --> 5052.40] globally -[5052.40 --> 5054.00] but maximally -[5054.00 --> 5054.68] good -[5054.68 --> 5056.04] the goodest -[5056.04 --> 5056.56] of all -[5056.56 --> 5057.06] goods -[5057.06 --> 5058.06] the greatest -[5058.06 --> 5058.72] good -[5058.72 --> 5060.92] always -[5060.92 --> 5064.42] second -[5064.42 --> 5065.82] you might -[5065.82 --> 5066.40] come to me -[5066.40 --> 5066.78] and be like -[5066.78 --> 5067.22] oh man -[5067.22 --> 5068.02] that is way -[5068.02 --> 5069.10] too hard -[5069.10 --> 5070.14] do I really -[5070.14 --> 5070.92] have to believe -[5070.92 --> 5071.30] this -[5071.30 --> 5072.48] can't I just -[5072.48 --> 5073.02] go and do -[5073.02 --> 5073.62] my best -[5073.62 --> 5076.26] yes of course -[5076.26 --> 5077.58] we want you -[5077.58 --> 5078.14] to go and -[5078.14 --> 5078.84] do your best -[5078.84 --> 5081.10] but the -[5081.10 --> 5081.48] truth -[5081.48 --> 5082.28] of the -[5082.28 --> 5082.76] whole lot -[5082.76 --> 5083.60] from beginning -[5083.60 --> 5084.08] to end -[5084.08 --> 5084.90] is that your -[5084.90 --> 5085.74] best isn't -[5085.74 --> 5086.26] going to be -[5086.26 --> 5086.84] good enough -[5086.84 --> 5089.40] and so -[5089.40 --> 5089.76] yeah -[5089.76 --> 5090.50] the reality -[5090.50 --> 5091.12] is if you -[5091.12 --> 5091.94] want salvation -[5091.94 --> 5093.08] to be possible -[5093.08 --> 5094.50] for anyone -[5094.50 --> 5096.58] you have to -[5096.58 --> 5097.28] believe in this -[5097.28 --> 5097.68] truth -[5097.68 --> 5098.32] in the -[5098.32 --> 5098.62] doctrine -[5098.62 --> 5099.86] of election -[5099.86 --> 5102.98] then -[5102.98 --> 5104.30] the comfort -[5104.30 --> 5104.82] of this -[5104.82 --> 5105.06] truth -[5105.06 --> 5105.60] don't miss -[5105.60 --> 5106.12] the comfort -[5106.12 --> 5107.12] of this -[5107.12 --> 5107.42] truth -[5107.42 --> 5108.00] right -[5108.00 --> 5108.44] because the -[5108.44 --> 5109.00] reality is -[5109.00 --> 5109.84] if I -[5109.84 --> 5110.66] can't do -[5110.66 --> 5111.34] anything -[5111.34 --> 5112.00] to gain -[5112.00 --> 5112.28] it -[5112.28 --> 5113.28] then I -[5113.28 --> 5113.52] can't -[5113.52 --> 5113.76] believe -[5113.76 --> 5113.92] you -[5113.92 --> 5114.30] lose -[5114.30 --> 5114.54] it -[5114.54 --> 5116.30] right -[5116.30 --> 5116.72] if it -[5116.72 --> 5117.48] is true -[5117.48 --> 5118.36] because God -[5118.36 --> 5119.24] has declared -[5119.24 --> 5120.18] you his -[5120.18 --> 5120.96] own -[5120.96 --> 5121.94] then you -[5121.94 --> 5122.52] cannot -[5122.52 --> 5123.74] lose that -[5123.74 --> 5124.50] because God -[5124.50 --> 5125.12] cannot be -[5125.12 --> 5125.42] wrong -[5125.42 --> 5127.28] it would be -[5127.28 --> 5127.86] against his -[5127.86 --> 5128.32] character -[5128.32 --> 5129.22] so the -[5129.22 --> 5129.94] security -[5129.94 --> 5130.80] of our -[5130.80 --> 5131.50] salvation -[5131.50 --> 5132.28] isn't how -[5132.28 --> 5133.04] good I am -[5133.04 --> 5133.84] or how hard -[5133.84 --> 5134.54] I believe -[5134.54 --> 5135.42] or even how -[5135.42 --> 5136.22] humble I am -[5136.22 --> 5136.66] in admitting -[5136.66 --> 5137.14] that I don't -[5137.14 --> 5137.92] understand it -[5137.92 --> 5139.06] the security -[5139.06 --> 5139.52] of your -[5139.52 --> 5140.02] salvation -[5140.02 --> 5140.70] is the -[5140.70 --> 5141.26] character -[5141.26 --> 5142.02] of God -[5142.02 --> 5142.58] himself -[5142.58 --> 5144.40] there is -[5144.40 --> 5144.76] no more -[5144.76 --> 5145.18] secure -[5145.18 --> 5146.06] truth -[5146.06 --> 5148.94] now -[5148.94 --> 5150.80] the doctrine -[5150.80 --> 5151.24] of -[5151.24 --> 5152.16] sovereignty -[5152.16 --> 5153.34] and election -[5153.34 --> 5154.36] means that -[5154.36 --> 5155.10] he gives -[5155.10 --> 5156.32] you everything -[5156.32 --> 5159.82] the flip side -[5159.82 --> 5160.16] of that -[5160.16 --> 5161.04] also of course -[5161.04 --> 5161.48] means that -[5161.48 --> 5162.28] he can ask -[5162.28 --> 5163.24] of you -[5163.24 --> 5164.02] anything -[5164.02 --> 5166.58] he can give -[5166.58 --> 5167.14] you everything -[5167.14 --> 5169.28] so there is -[5169.28 --> 5169.90] nothing that -[5169.90 --> 5170.32] you can't -[5170.32 --> 5170.60] ask -[5170.60 --> 5174.02] so even -[5174.02 --> 5175.28] as simple -[5175.28 --> 5176.38] as when that -[5176.38 --> 5177.10] offering plate -[5177.10 --> 5177.68] comes by -[5177.68 --> 5177.98] and the -[5177.98 --> 5178.18] deacon -[5178.18 --> 5178.72] goes up -[5178.72 --> 5178.96] and you -[5178.96 --> 5179.34] go oh -[5179.34 --> 5179.76] this is my -[5179.76 --> 5180.20] time to -[5180.20 --> 5180.74] come out -[5180.74 --> 5182.38] this is my -[5182.38 --> 5182.96] time to -[5182.96 --> 5183.58] check my -[5183.58 --> 5183.94] phone -[5183.94 --> 5185.54] maybe -[5185.54 --> 5186.46] maybe -[5186.46 --> 5187.60] God is -[5187.60 --> 5187.86] asking -[5187.86 --> 5188.28] something -[5188.28 --> 5190.88] even as -[5190.88 --> 5191.28] we stand -[5191.28 --> 5191.68] up here -[5191.68 --> 5192.40] and look -[5192.40 --> 5193.06] to volunteers -[5193.06 --> 5193.54] to round -[5193.54 --> 5194.10] out the -[5194.10 --> 5194.48] needs that -[5194.48 --> 5194.80] we have -[5194.80 --> 5195.38] in our -[5195.38 --> 5195.74] church -[5195.74 --> 5196.24] family -[5196.24 --> 5197.06] maybe -[5197.06 --> 5197.70] God is -[5197.70 --> 5199.00] asking -[5199.00 --> 5199.38] something -[5199.38 --> 5200.06] to do -[5200.06 --> 5202.62] he's -[5202.62 --> 5203.06] given you -[5203.06 --> 5203.60] everything -[5203.60 --> 5204.16] there is -[5204.16 --> 5204.66] nothing -[5204.66 --> 5205.34] he can't -[5205.34 --> 5205.60] ask -[5205.60 --> 5206.00] you to do -[5206.00 --> 5207.66] and then -[5207.66 --> 5208.26] lastly here -[5208.26 --> 5208.76] he's done -[5208.76 --> 5209.24] it all -[5209.24 --> 5210.28] there is -[5210.28 --> 5210.60] nothing -[5210.60 --> 5211.00] that he -[5211.00 --> 5211.24] can't -[5211.24 --> 5211.42] ask -[5211.42 --> 5211.64] you to -[5211.64 --> 5211.90] do -[5211.90 --> 5213.06] and maybe -[5213.06 --> 5213.38] that's -[5213.38 --> 5213.58] going to -[5213.58 --> 5214.08] look like -[5214.08 --> 5214.50] going to -[5214.50 --> 5214.92] Nepal -[5214.92 --> 5215.84] as a -[5215.84 --> 5216.34] missionary -[5216.34 --> 5218.44] maybe that's -[5218.44 --> 5218.64] going to -[5218.64 --> 5219.14] look like -[5219.14 --> 5219.52] having the -[5219.52 --> 5219.70] hard -[5219.70 --> 5220.22] conversation -[5220.22 --> 5220.94] with friends -[5220.94 --> 5221.38] that we -[5221.38 --> 5221.76] offer -[5221.76 --> 5222.56] difficult -[5222.56 --> 5223.18] maybe that's -[5223.18 --> 5223.40] going to -[5223.40 --> 5224.00] look like -[5224.00 --> 5224.86] getting up -[5224.86 --> 5225.32] an hour -[5225.32 --> 5225.80] earlier -[5225.80 --> 5226.50] every day -[5226.50 --> 5227.16] just to -[5227.16 --> 5227.72] spend it -[5227.72 --> 5228.28] in prayer -[5228.28 --> 5229.04] for your -[5229.04 --> 5229.42] case -[5229.42 --> 5231.36] if he's -[5231.36 --> 5231.64] done it -[5231.64 --> 5231.88] all -[5231.88 --> 5232.20] there is -[5232.20 --> 5232.50] nothing -[5232.50 --> 5233.12] he can't -[5233.12 --> 5233.84] ask us -[5233.84 --> 5234.50] to do -[5234.50 --> 5235.64] in prayer -[5235.64 --> 5237.36] and then -[5237.36 --> 5240.20] finally -[5240.20 --> 5242.18] remember -[5242.18 --> 5243.74] the goal -[5243.74 --> 5244.36] of all -[5244.36 --> 5245.02] of this -[5245.02 --> 5246.36] is to -[5246.36 --> 5246.92] end -[5246.92 --> 5247.82] in -[5247.82 --> 5248.64] prayer -[5248.64 --> 5250.56] and so -[5250.56 --> 5251.50] even if -[5251.50 --> 5252.34] or when -[5252.34 --> 5253.32] we can't -[5253.32 --> 5254.32] fully understand -[5254.32 --> 5254.80] the depth -[5254.80 --> 5255.10] of the -[5255.10 --> 5255.38] truths -[5255.38 --> 5255.92] of scripture -[5255.92 --> 5256.74] even -[5256.74 --> 5257.48] when we -[5257.48 --> 5257.80] can't -[5257.80 --> 5258.78] fully comprehend -[5258.78 --> 5259.36] the depth -[5259.36 --> 5259.90] of the truth -[5259.90 --> 5260.54] of being -[5260.54 --> 5260.98] and the -[5260.98 --> 5261.44] sovereignty -[5261.44 --> 5262.64] of God -[5262.64 --> 5263.62] we still -[5263.62 --> 5264.90] come together -[5264.90 --> 5265.90] and worship -[5265.90 --> 5266.58] him -[5266.58 --> 5268.30] and in -[5268.30 --> 5268.90] worshiping -[5268.90 --> 5269.56] him -[5269.56 --> 5271.04] we can -[5271.04 --> 5272.74] rest secure -[5272.74 --> 5273.84] in the promises -[5273.84 --> 5274.94] of him -[5274.94 --> 5276.38] we can rest -[5276.38 --> 5277.16] secure in the -[5277.16 --> 5278.46] promises given -[5278.46 --> 5279.36] and we can rest -[5279.36 --> 5280.80] secure that the -[5280.80 --> 5282.02] promises of God -[5282.02 --> 5283.30] are always -[5283.30 --> 5284.34] realized -[5284.34 --> 5285.16] for that -[5285.16 --> 5286.46] is who -[5286.46 --> 5287.20] God -[5287.20 --> 5287.98] is -[5287.98 --> 5289.88] so maybe -[5289.88 --> 5290.86] all we can -[5290.86 --> 5291.14] sing -[5291.14 --> 5292.44] is holy -[5292.44 --> 5293.56] holy -[5293.56 --> 5294.56] holy -[5294.56 --> 5295.74] Lord -[5295.74 --> 5296.92] God -[5296.92 --> 5298.00] Almighty -[5298.00 --> 5299.10] Amen -[5299.10 --> 5309.68] Lord -[5309.68 --> 5310.90] our -[5310.90 --> 5311.90] God -[5311.90 --> 5315.72] you are -[5315.72 --> 5316.48] mighty -[5316.48 --> 5317.64] and majestic -[5317.64 --> 5318.32] you are -[5318.32 --> 5319.04] sovereign -[5319.04 --> 5319.66] and -[5319.66 --> 5320.48] transcendent -[5320.48 --> 5321.22] you are -[5321.22 --> 5321.90] holy -[5321.90 --> 5322.64] holy -[5322.64 --> 5323.18] holy -[5323.18 --> 5327.74] your ways -[5327.74 --> 5328.60] are not -[5328.60 --> 5329.76] our ways -[5329.76 --> 5330.88] your judgments -[5330.88 --> 5333.00] are unsearchable -[5333.00 --> 5333.96] your path -[5333.96 --> 5334.62] beyond -[5334.62 --> 5335.22] who prays -[5335.22 --> 5335.62] to count -[5335.62 --> 5338.30] who has -[5338.30 --> 5338.90] known the -[5338.90 --> 5339.32] mind -[5339.32 --> 5339.88] of the Lord -[5339.88 --> 5340.62] who has -[5340.62 --> 5341.00] been -[5341.00 --> 5341.88] counseled -[5341.88 --> 5344.84] and so -[5344.84 --> 5345.66] for the -[5345.66 --> 5345.90] evening -[5345.90 --> 5346.62] we come -[5346.62 --> 5349.24] we come -[5349.24 --> 5351.24] we pray -[5351.24 --> 5353.24] for from you -[5353.24 --> 5354.30] and through you -[5354.30 --> 5355.22] and for you -[5355.22 --> 5356.00] are all -[5356.00 --> 5356.48] saints -[5356.48 --> 5357.54] to you -[5357.54 --> 5358.56] be the -[5358.56 --> 5359.06] glory -[5359.06 --> 5359.76] of heaven -[5359.76 --> 5361.16] and heaven -[5361.16 --> 5362.78] in your name -[5362.78 --> 5363.26] we pray -[5363.26 --> 5364.32] Amen -[5371.88 --> 5373.58] please stand -[5373.58 --> 5374.00] and join -[5374.00 --> 5374.26] us -[5374.26 --> 5374.76] in singing -[5374.76 --> 5403.24] All creatures of our life -[5404.76 --> 5409.40] The pure voice with us and sing -[5409.40 --> 5415.48] Alleluia, Alleluia -[5415.48 --> 5420.52] Open in sun with all delight -[5420.52 --> 5426.20] Sun shining moon with love and love -[5426.20 --> 5432.48] Alleluia, Alleluia -[5432.48 --> 5439.48] Alleluia, Alleluia -[5439.48 --> 5444.48] Alleluia -[5444.48 --> 5448.48] O rushing and so on and strong -[5448.48 --> 5454.48] He in crowds not sailing for the Lord -[5454.48 --> 5460.48] Alleluia, Alleluia -[5460.48 --> 5464.48] O rushing and so on and strong -[5464.48 --> 5466.48] Alleluia -[5466.48 --> 5470.48] O rushing and so on and strong -[5470.48 --> 5472.48] Alleluia -[5472.48 --> 5476.48] Alleluia -[5476.48 --> 5478.48] Alleluia -[5478.48 --> 5480.48] Alleluia -[5480.48 --> 5482.48] Alleluia -[5482.48 --> 5486.48] Alleluia -[5486.48 --> 5488.48] Alleluia -[5488.48 --> 5490.48] Alleluia -[5490.48 --> 5492.48] Alleluia -[5492.48 --> 5494.48] Alleluia -[5494.48 --> 5498.48] Alleluia -[5498.48 --> 5500.48] Alleluia -[5500.48 --> 5502.48] Alleluia -[5502.48 --> 5504.48] Alleluia -[5504.48 --> 5511.14] Alleluia, just for so nice to know and cry -[5511.14 --> 5531.18] Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia -[5534.48 --> 5564.46] Alleluia, alleluia -[5564.48 --> 5566.48] Alleluia, alleluia -[5566.48 --> 5570.48] Alleluia, alleluia -[5570.48 --> 5574.48] Alleluia, alleluia -[5574.48 --> 5576.48] Alleluia -[5576.48 --> 5578.48] Alleluia -[5578.48 --> 5580.48] Alleluia -[5580.48 --> 5582.48] Alleluia -[5582.48 --> 5612.48] -[5612.48 --> 5614.48] Alleluia -[5614.48 --> 5616.48] Alleluia -[5616.48 --> 5618.48] Alleluia -[5618.48 --> 5620.48] Alleluia -[5620.48 --> 5622.48] Alleluia -[5622.48 --> 5624.48] Alleluia -[5624.48 --> 5626.48] Alleluia -[5626.48 --> 5628.48] Alleluia -[5628.48 --> 5630.48] Alleluia -[5630.48 --> 5660.46] Oh, my God. -[5660.48 --> 5690.46] Oh, my God. -[5690.48 --> 5720.46] Oh, my God. -[5720.46 --> 5750.44] Oh, my God. -[5750.44 --> 5780.42] Oh, my God. -[5780.42 --> 5782.42] Oh, my God. -[5782.42 --> 5810.40] Oh, my God. -[5810.40 --> 5812.40] Oh, my God. -[5812.40 --> 5816.40] Oh, my God. -[5816.40 --> 5818.40] Oh, my God. -[5818.40 --> 5820.40] Oh, my God. -[5820.40 --> 5822.40] Oh, my God. -[5822.40 --> 5830.40] Oh, my God. -[5830.40 --> 5832.40] Oh, my God. -[5832.40 --> 5834.40] Oh, my God. -[5834.40 --> 5836.40] Oh, my God. -[5836.40 --> 5840.40] What? -[5840.40 --> 5842.40] Oh, my God. -[5842.40 --> 5848.40] Oh, my God. -[5848.40 --> 5862.40] Oh, my God. -[5862.40 --> 5892.38] Thank you. -[5892.40 --> 5922.38] Thank you. -[5922.40 --> 5952.38] Thank you. -[5952.40 --> 5982.38] Thank you. -[5982.40 --> 6012.38] Thank you. -[6012.40 --> 6042.38] Thank you. -[6042.40 --> 6072.38] Thank you. -[6072.40 --> 6102.38] Thank you. -[6102.40 --> 6132.38] Thank you. -[6132.40 --> 6162.38] Thank you. -[6162.40 --> 6192.38] Thank you. -[6192.40 --> 6222.38] Thank you. -[6222.40 --> 6252.38] Thank you. -[6252.40 --> 6282.38] Thank you. -[6282.40 --> 6312.38] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 23, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 23, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index affde0721bab691c5106fa024be6957b36af5c46..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 23, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,89 +0,0 @@ -• Reminder for high school-aged youth about an event at the church (HCBC) -• Call to worship and praising God, citing Psalm 18 -• Praise and adoration of God as worthy to be praised and exalted -• Reference to Christ's sacrifice and crucifixion -• Reflection on life, death, and rejection in relation to God -• Praying for a sense of God's presence and guidance -• Acknowledging human tendency to forget God's importance in times of prosperity -• Recognizing the role of fear and its effects on the heart -• Seeking comfort and reassurance through Christ's victory over death -• Repeating phrases from the hymn "Abide with Me" -• Expressing trust in God despite uncertainty and pain -• Affirming faith in God's steadfastness and protection -• Prayers and hymns are sung -• Collections are made for the budget and Wagner Hill Farm, a faith-based recovery center -• The Bible verse 2 Corinthians 9:7 is read and discussed -• Next week's special offering is for seafarers ministry -• A song about God's love and presence is sung -• A children's story is told about making mistakes and learning from them -• A prayer is led to ask for open hearts and ears to learn more about God -• The church family received news of a car accident involving Aaron Hansen and are praying for his recovery -• A prayer is offered to God for various aspects of the community's lives, including safety, healing, and guidance -• The pastor leads the congregation in thanking God for blessings such as rain and fall days -• Prayers are also offered for specific individuals including Amanda, Kevin, Chris, Brandon, John, and Cameron -• The church family is asked to bless and pray for two upcoming mission trips to Mexico and May -• The congregation is reminded of God's sovereign rule over the world and His promise to bring justice and shalom -• A teaching series on the book of Psalms is mentioned, specifically focusing on Psalm 30 and exploring different emotions and experiences -• Experience with a horror maze and a haunted house -• Difference in response to fear between narrator and others -• Explanation of fight, flight, and freeze as responses to fear -• Discussion on when fear is real vs less so -• Importance of recognizing the impact of lesser fears on one's life -• Fear as a response to perceived or real danger -• Types of fear: nervousness, worry, anxiety, terror, horror -• Fear vs control: rooted in lack of control or threat to experience of control -• Worry and fear are related: people fear what they cannot control -• David's experience of security in Psalm 30: God's favor makes him feel secure -• Difference between feeling secure and having God's favor -• Danger of thinking you can achieve security on your own, without God's favor -• David's security and sense of God's favor is shaken -• The phrase "God's face is hidden" means God's presence, grace, and peace are absent -• David feels dismayed, which means to tremble inwardly or be terrified -• He experiences physical danger, relational danger, and perceived danger -• David recalls his prayer in verse 8, calling out to God for mercy -• He expresses a fear of death, both physically and symbolically -• Death is seen as a threat to one's identity and core values -• Death as a euphemism -• Experiences of death and their impact on fear -• Fear and control -• The role of comfort zones in managing anxiety and fears -• Staying stuck in comfort zones vs. expanding one's horizons -• God as security and comfort, not just a personal creation -• Walking up to the edge of one's comfort zone and seeing what happens when taking the next step -• Fear changing the way we see the world and ourselves -• The story of the Israelites in Numbers 13 -• God's power and presence experienced by the Israelites over time -• The spies' report and the people's fear, which redefined their reality about themselves and God -• David's response to fear: going to God in prayer and worship -• The importance of community in facing fears: bringing fears to God and to others in confession -• God's promise to never leave or forsake us, fulfilled through giving us each other in the church family -• The Bible's repeated command to "do not fear" is often misquoted as being said 365 times. -• A word study found that this phrase is actually used around 150-140 times in the Bible. -• Fear is rooted in a false story or narrative that individuals tell themselves about their place in the world and God's power. -• The antidote to fear is hearing and internalizing true stories, such as God's story and the gospel. -• Memorizing Scripture and the teachings of Scripture can be especially helpful in combating fears. -• A key comfort and truth for facing fears is recognizing that one belongs body and soul to a faithful Savior, Jesus Christ. -• Defeat of the devil and God's protection -• Faith and trust in God for salvation -• Fear vs love, with perfect love driving out fear -• The story of the spies and Joshua/Caleb's faithfulness -• The Holy Spirit and sonship through adoption -• The antidote to false stories: a true story of God's love -• Caleb's story as an example of faith -• Overcoming fear and stepping into the unknown -• Understanding God's goodness and trust in it -• The difference between idolized safety and comfort vs. faith in God's goodness -• A prayer to be open to truth, expose lies of fear, and have hearts captivated by love -• Prayer and invocation of God's presence -• Confidence in Christ alone for life and death -• Celebration of Christ's love and redemption -• Assurance of eternal life and victory over sin and death -• Invitation to sing Alleluia and praise God -• Acknowledgment of God's goodness, grace, and provision -• Expression of hope and trust in Christ as Savior and Lord -• Prayers for love and connection with God -• Confession of guilt and sin -• Request for forgiveness and cleansing through Christ's blood -• Call to arise from spiritual death and live a new life in Christ -• Affirmation of God's reconciling power and love -• Praise and worship of God's mercy and sovereignty \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 23, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 23, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d9f0760595a7dc77557dce28aae4ce666a0631d6..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 23, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1285 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[239.98 --> 269.96] Thank you. -[269.96 --> 271.96] Thank you. -[299.96 --> 301.96] Thank you. -[329.96 --> 331.96] Thank you. -[359.96 --> 361.96] Thank you. -[389.96 --> 391.96] Thank you. -[391.96 --> 392.96] Thank you. -[392.96 --> 394.96] Thank you. -[394.96 --> 396.96] Thank you. -[396.96 --> 398.96] Thank you. -[426.96 --> 428.96] Thank you. -[428.96 --> 430.96] Thank you. -[430.96 --> 432.96] Thank you. -[432.96 --> 434.96] Thank you. -[434.96 --> 436.96] Thank you. -[436.96 --> 438.96] Thank you. -[438.96 --> 440.96] Thank you. -[440.96 --> 442.96] Thank you. -[442.96 --> 444.96] Thank you. -[444.96 --> 446.96] Thank you. -[446.96 --> 448.96] Thank you. -[448.96 --> 449.96] Thank you. -[449.96 --> 451.96] Thank you. -[451.96 --> 453.96] Thank you. -[453.96 --> 455.96] Thank you. -[455.96 --> 459.96] Thank you. -[459.96 --> 461.96] Thank you. -[461.96 --> 463.96] Thank you. -[463.96 --> 472.26] And lastly, just a reminder for high school-aged youth, you have HCBC tonight here at the church. -[472.44 --> 480.44] And so that starts at some time. I don't know offhand. Someone help me? Seven? Don't quote me. -[480.58 --> 485.16] You know when it is if you're supposed to be here. If you don't, talk to me after and I'll figure it -[485.16 --> 492.50] out for actualities then. Let's stand together and we can worship our God as we gather in his -[492.50 --> 503.32] presence. Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, -[503.32 --> 509.20] and our Savior through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. -[509.20 --> 509.30] Amen. -[515.02 --> 522.60] Psalm 18 welcomes us this morning, looking at our call to worship and praising our Lord. -[522.60 --> 531.12] I will love thee, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my strength, -[531.58 --> 539.04] in whom I will trust. My buckler and the horn of my salvation and my high tower. I will call upon the -[539.04 --> 545.60] Lord who's worthy to be praised. So shall I be saved from mine enemies. For thou wilt light my candle. -[545.60 --> 552.38] The Lord my God will enlighten my darkness. The Lord liveth, and blessed be the rock, and let -[552.38 --> 554.68] the God of my salvation be exalted. -[554.68 --> 584.66] I will call upon the Lord who is worthy to be praised. So shall I be saved from my enemies. -[584.66 --> 609.66] The Lord liveth, and blessed be the rock, and let the God of my salvation be exalted. The Lord liveth, and blessed be the rock, and let the God of my salvation be exalted. -[609.66 --> 631.66] The Lord will enlighten my life. I will call upon the Lord who is worthy to be praised. So shall I be saved from my enemies. -[631.66 --> 641.66] The Lord liveth, and blessed be the rock, and let the God of my salvation be exalted. -[641.66 --> 653.66] The Lord liveth, and blessed be the rock, and let the God of my salvation be exalted. -[653.66 --> 683.64] Thank you. -[683.66 --> 694.06] O power of all peace, -[694.06 --> 701.16] upon all nature and all three things, -[701.82 --> 708.84] upon all wisdom and all the ways of man, -[708.84 --> 715.84] you hear the Father will be there. -[715.84 --> 722.84] Above all kingdoms, above all truth, -[722.84 --> 729.84] above all wonders, the world has never known, -[729.84 --> 737.84] above all wealth, the treasures of the earth. -[737.84 --> 744.84] There's no way to ensure what pure world. -[744.84 --> 752.84] Close to pride, laid behind the stone, -[752.84 --> 759.84] you live to die, protected and alone, -[759.84 --> 766.84] like a rose trampled on the ground. -[766.84 --> 773.84] It's a work of joy, with God and me, -[773.84 --> 780.84] above all. -[780.84 --> 788.84] Above all powers, above all needs, -[788.84 --> 794.84] above all nature and all three things, -[794.84 --> 803.84] above all wisdom and all the ways of man, -[803.84 --> 809.84] you are given for the world to care. -[809.84 --> 816.84] above all kingdoms, above all worlds, -[816.84 --> 824.84] above all wonders the world has ever known, -[824.84 --> 831.84] above all wealth and treasures of the earth. -[831.84 --> 834.84] above all passting and waits for the earth, -[834.84 --> 836.84] above all tôm't fighting on the ground. -[836.84 --> 838.84] I come alive. -[842.26 --> 842.84] Crucify. -[844.68 --> 846.84] Leave me like a song. -[848.06 --> 851.22] You live to die. -[851.70 --> 855.84] Rejected and not like the rose. -[857.22 --> 859.84] Trampled on the ground. -[861.32 --> 862.60] You talk about. -[862.60 --> 871.60] You are the king of the Lord. -[874.60 --> 875.60] Crucified. -[877.00 --> 879.60] Laid behind the stone. -[880.48 --> 882.60] You live to die. -[884.06 --> 888.60] Rejected and not like the rose. -[888.60 --> 892.60] Traveled on the ground. -[893.60 --> 895.60] It's not the Lord. -[897.60 --> 900.60] The Lord of me. -[901.60 --> 904.60] Above all. -[904.60 --> 913.60] The Lord of me. -[913.60 --> 914.60] The Lord of me. -[914.60 --> 915.60] Lord above all. -[916.60 --> 917.60] High above all powers and kings. -[918.60 --> 920.60] Above all nature and all created things. -[921.60 --> 922.60] We need you every passing hour. -[923.60 --> 926.60] When life is going well, we sometimes forget who you are. -[926.60 --> 930.60] We forget that we need you and think we are managing on our own. -[931.60 --> 934.60] Until the darkness deepens and we see our weakness so evidently. -[935.60 --> 937.60] The ebb and flow of our days have joys that come and go. -[938.60 --> 941.60] And when sorrow fills our vision, the world seems void of your love. -[941.60 --> 944.60] It is in these times that we give away to fear. -[945.60 --> 947.60] Fear torments us and disquiets our hearts. -[948.60 --> 950.60] We have fear of what's happening in our lives. -[951.60 --> 952.60] Our relationships. -[953.60 --> 954.60] Our families. -[954.60 --> 955.60] Our jobs. -[955.60 --> 956.60] Our school. -[956.60 --> 957.60] Our finances. -[957.60 --> 958.60] Our health. -[958.60 --> 959.60] And what is happening in our world. -[960.60 --> 963.60] The weight of fear puts us through a thousand griefs in our minds. -[963.60 --> 966.60] O to the Lord who does not change. -[966.60 --> 968.60] Make your presence known within our hearts. -[969.60 --> 971.60] Turn our eyes towards the cross. -[971.60 --> 973.60] Christ's victory over the grave. -[973.60 --> 974.60] Abide with us, Lord. -[975.60 --> 977.60] Through the cloud and through the sunshine. -[978.60 --> 979.60] Abide with us. -[993.60 --> 994.60] Christ's victory over the grave. -[994.60 --> 995.60] Christ's victory over the grave. -[995.60 --> 996.60] The darkness deepens, Lord with me, Abide with me. -[996.60 --> 998.60] The darkness deepens, Lord with me, Abide. -[998.60 --> 999.60] When other hands, Lord with me, Abide. -[999.60 --> 1004.60] Abide with me, Abide with me. -[1004.60 --> 1010.60] Abide with me, as falls, even tight. -[1011.60 --> 1014.60] The darkness deepens, Lord with me, Abide. -[1014.60 --> 1023.60] The darkness deepens, Lord with me, Abide. -[1023.60 --> 1035.00] When other helpers fail and comforts flee, -[1036.84 --> 1046.82] Help of the helpless, so abide with thee. -[1046.82 --> 1060.02] Swift to its blows, ebbs of life's little day, -[1061.10 --> 1070.62] Earth's joys grow dim in, glories pass away. -[1070.62 --> 1083.78] Change and decay in all around I see, -[1085.14 --> 1095.42] O thou who changest not, abide with me. -[1095.42 --> 1109.42] I need thy presence every passing hour, -[1110.06 --> 1120.42] What but thy grace can for the tempest's power, -[1120.42 --> 1132.42] Who, like thyself, my guidance day can be. -[1133.78 --> 1144.42] Through cloud and sunshine, O abide with me. -[1144.42 --> 1157.72] I hear no call with thee and hunt to bless, -[1158.72 --> 1168.42] Ills have no weight and tears forbidden us, -[1168.42 --> 1179.42] Where is the sting, where is thy victory? -[1182.42 --> 1192.42] Our triumph still if thou abides with me. -[1192.42 --> 1204.42] Hold thou thy cross before my closing eyes, -[1204.42 --> 1216.42] Shine through the gloom and point me to the sky, -[1216.42 --> 1221.42] And thine's morning grace, -[1221.42 --> 1227.42] And earth's pain shadows flee, -[1227.42 --> 1234.42] In life, in death, O Lord, -[1234.42 --> 1239.42] Abide with me. -[1239.42 --> 1241.42] Soon other things are your time school, -[1241.42 --> 1244.42] To be of your sovereign来ive, -[1244.42 --> 1246.42] Love myги and 쓸ia rune for your protection. -[1246.42 --> 1249.42] I have another day in love in his home, -[1249.42 --> 1250.42] To be of your children close to the house. -[1250.42 --> 1257.42] I hear my sophomore year menace in the drum, -[1257.66 --> 1259.42] While you are gonna die, -[1259.42 --> 1260.42] I know also ye dove, -[1260.42 --> 1261.42] doen'atuus dreams your self. -[1261.42 --> 1262.76] strich the town of the castle of the queen, -[1262.76 --> 1264.42] I know. -[1264.42 --> 1278.60] I'm still, my soul be still, and do not fear, -[1278.60 --> 1283.66] no hills of change may rage tomorrow. -[1284.52 --> 1292.60] God is at your side, no longer tell, -[1292.60 --> 1298.00] no fires of unexpected sorrow. -[1298.56 --> 1310.66] God, you are my God, and I will trust in you and not be shaken. -[1312.26 --> 1321.78] God is renewed, my steadfast spirit will be healed, -[1321.78 --> 1327.74] and I will trust in you and not be shaken. -[1327.74 --> 1340.74] I'm still, my soul be still, and do not believe, -[1340.74 --> 1346.70] but less will rise and fleeting shadows. -[1346.70 --> 1355.66] Oh, Lord, to his ways, we'll shield the pain, -[1355.66 --> 1360.62] against temptations, plain and geckos. -[1361.62 --> 1373.40] God, you are my God, and I will trust in you and not be shaken. -[1373.40 --> 1383.36] Lord, I will be free, but steadfast spirit will be healed, -[1383.36 --> 1387.36] and do not fear, and do not fear, and do not fear. -[1387.36 --> 1393.32] God, you are my God, and do not fear. -[1393.32 --> 1398.38] God, you are my God, and do not fear. -[1398.38 --> 1406.82] God, I will trust in you and not fear, and do not fear. -[1406.82 --> 1409.90] You learned in the beginning. -[1410.78 --> 1415.86] Wait upon the Lord. -[1416.22 --> 1419.38] And hope will rise. -[1419.38 --> 1422.56] This time's a pure and pure. -[1424.04 --> 1429.74] God, you are my God. -[1430.02 --> 1433.96] And I will trust in you and love. -[1433.96 --> 1437.64] You share them. -[1438.16 --> 1443.14] Lord, you are my God. -[1443.14 --> 1447.64] Blessed by spirit, you are my God. -[1448.02 --> 1461.44] And I will trust in you and love. -[1461.44 --> 1465.00] You share their heart. -[1465.48 --> 1469.76] Lord, a peace renew. -[1469.76 --> 1474.62] Blessed by spirit, you are my God. -[1474.62 --> 1480.62] Blessed by spirit, you are my God. -[1480.62 --> 1495.28] Let us pray for love. -[1495.38 --> 1498.44] Blessed by spirit, you are my God. -[1498.58 --> 1500.42] Should we pray for love? -[1500.42 --> 1502.88] Blessed by spirit, you are my God. -[1502.96 --> 1507.76] valGHz -[1507.76 --> 1529.76] Good morning. The collections today are for the budget and for Wagner Hill Farm. It is a faith-based recovery center located in Langley. -[1529.76 --> 1556.50] They are a working farm providing a one-year program for both men and women. Seeing people through the process with classes, counseling and rehabilitation. With work programs and also community programs. They strive to bring healing, growth and transformation on the road to recovery. -[1556.50 --> 1565.38] Not all residents can afford the cost. So collections like today help those in need of the treatments offered. -[1566.28 --> 1578.84] 2 Corinthians 9 7. Each one should give what they have decided in their heart to give. Not reluctantly or under compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver. -[1579.70 --> 1583.72] Next week's special offering is for seafarers ministry. -[1586.50 --> 1604.50] 3 Corinthians 10 6BA Webم -[1604.50 --> 1611.50] and a light unto my heart -[1611.50 --> 1617.50] I've heard it's a hand to my feet -[1617.50 --> 1624.50] and a light unto my heart -[1624.50 --> 1631.50] When I feel afraid, I think I've lost my way -[1631.50 --> 1638.50] Still you're there, I'm beside you -[1638.50 --> 1645.50] Nothing will appear as long to argue -[1645.50 --> 1653.50] Please be near me to the end -[1653.50 --> 1662.50] I've heard it's a hand to my feet -[1662.50 --> 1668.50] and a light unto my heart -[1668.50 --> 1675.50] I've heard it's a hand to my feet -[1675.50 --> 1682.50] and a light unto my heart -[1682.50 --> 1689.50] I will not forget your love for me yet -[1689.50 --> 1696.50] My heart forever is lonely -[1696.50 --> 1704.50] Jesus, we point mine and hold me to your side -[1704.50 --> 1711.50] And I will love you to the end -[1711.50 --> 1716.50] I will not forget your love for me -[1716.50 --> 1721.50] My heart is a hand to my feet -[1721.50 --> 1728.50] And a light unto my heart -[1728.50 --> 1731.50] Lord, I will not forget your love for me -[1731.50 --> 1735.50] My heart is a hand unto my feet -[1735.50 --> 1741.50] And a light unto my heart -[1741.50 --> 1743.50] You're a light unto my heart -[1743.50 --> 1749.50] You're a light unto my heart -[1749.50 --> 1765.50] Good morning, everybody. All the kids. -[1765.50 --> 1768.50] If you're age three up to grade four, you can come on up. -[1768.50 --> 1771.50] I'm going to sit over here because it's a little squishy there today. -[1771.50 --> 1773.50] So you can come this way. -[1773.50 --> 1783.50] I'm going to start by telling you a little story -[1783.50 --> 1788.50] of something that happened to my family a little while ago -[1788.50 --> 1792.50] We were here one day and we were playing at the playground over there -[1792.50 --> 1793.50] Maybe some of you have played there -[1793.50 --> 1796.50] It wasn't Sunday, it was a different day of the week -[1796.50 --> 1799.50] and we brought our dog because he likes to play in the field -[1799.50 --> 1803.50] And when it was time to go, we were, it was, it got a little crazy -[1803.50 --> 1806.50] Sometimes when leaving the park is hard for kids and parents -[1806.50 --> 1810.50] So we got into the car, we finally got all the kids in the car -[1810.50 --> 1812.50] And we're like, okay, let's go, it's time to go -[1812.50 --> 1813.50] And we drove down the road -[1813.50 --> 1818.50] And we got about to the end of the roundabout there -[1818.50 --> 1820.50] And we were like, where's the dog? -[1820.50 --> 1823.50] He wasn't in the car -[1823.50 --> 1826.50] And we had to turn around, drive back -[1826.50 --> 1828.50] Luckily he was just running around in the field having fun -[1828.50 --> 1831.50] Call the dog and go home -[1831.50 --> 1833.50] It was a little bit of a mistake -[1833.50 --> 1835.50] It could have been a really big mistake -[1835.50 --> 1837.50] But we were lucky that he was okay and safe -[1837.50 --> 1841.50] In the Bible today we are going to talk about another mistake -[1841.50 --> 1844.50] It's a little, it's a bigger mistake than forgetting the dog -[1844.50 --> 1847.50] But you might have heard the story -[1847.50 --> 1849.50] And we're going to talk about making mistakes -[1849.50 --> 1851.50] And our own mistakes -[1851.50 --> 1853.50] And a mistake that happened in the Bible -[1853.50 --> 1855.50] So let's take a minute to pray -[1855.50 --> 1858.50] And then we'll stand up for the blessing -[1858.50 --> 1861.50] Lord God, we thank you for this day -[1861.50 --> 1864.50] That we can come and learn more about you -[1864.50 --> 1867.50] Thank you God that you have given us forgiveness -[1867.50 --> 1870.50] And that we can bring each mistake to you -[1870.50 --> 1873.50] We pray that we would have open hearts and ears -[1873.50 --> 1876.50] To learn more about you today, amen -[1876.50 --> 1881.50] All right, let's stand up -[1881.50 --> 1883.50] All right -[1883.50 --> 1891.50] The Lord be with you -[1891.50 --> 1906.50] Thank you -[1906.50 --> 1908.50] Thank you -[1908.50 --> 1910.50] Thank you -[1910.50 --> 1925.36] Good morning. -[1925.90 --> 1929.52] My name is Seth, and I'm an elder here at Langley Emanuel. -[1930.10 --> 1933.46] It's my privilege to be able to lead you in our church family prayer. -[1934.24 --> 1940.16] Before I do, while we got the good news that God provided traveling mercies for our -[1940.16 --> 1945.94] young adults when they went on their trip, we also received news this morning that Aaron -[1945.94 --> 1949.30] Hansen, many of you know the Hansen family, Dr. Hansen. -[1950.08 --> 1954.16] Aaron was involved in a car accident near Kamloops, and he is hospitalized. -[1955.80 --> 1960.40] And the family is gathering because it appears that these may be his last moments. -[1960.40 --> 1963.72] So keep them near and in your hearts and in your prayers. -[1967.50 --> 1968.60] Please join me in prayer. -[1970.16 --> 1983.48] God of glory, God of grace, God of justice, God of mercy, God of power and might, God -[1983.48 --> 1984.80] of tenderness and love. -[1986.38 --> 1991.56] It's beyond our comprehension, but you are all of these things, and we praise you. -[1991.56 --> 1998.80] You are holy, awesome, and majestic, and may you be praised forever. -[2000.80 --> 2006.84] We praise you for your goodness, seen in abundance this week in the beautiful fall days, including -[2006.84 --> 2013.34] the prayed for rain, and in the lives of your people as you continue to inspire and sustain -[2013.34 --> 2019.34] us into faithful service in all areas of life through the gift of your spirit as we are your -[2019.34 --> 2020.38] body here on earth. -[2022.62 --> 2027.94] We praise you for your loving care, both in how you have given us the gift of eternal life -[2027.94 --> 2033.72] with you because of Jesus, and in how you are present with us even in our day-to-day experiences. -[2033.72 --> 2041.00] We know that our times are in your hand, and we put our trust in you, for you are good. -[2042.46 --> 2048.00] You kept Amanda safe and brought timely care to her, and we pray that you will bring continued -[2048.00 --> 2048.70] healing to her. -[2048.70 --> 2054.64] You protected our youth leaders and Kevin from serious harm while traveling this weekend, -[2054.84 --> 2060.14] and we pray for continued healing and providence for them in their important work and in their -[2060.14 --> 2060.98] travels home today. -[2063.06 --> 2067.90] We thank you for our pastoral staff, and we ask for continued blessing on their work and -[2067.90 --> 2072.54] on their families, and we also pray for your blessing on the interview process this week -[2072.54 --> 2074.50] ahead for the Young Adult Ministry Coordinator. -[2074.50 --> 2082.94] We praise you for your faithful power, which extends beyond the grave, and for how you always -[2082.94 --> 2083.78] keep your promises. -[2085.64 --> 2090.54] While Elsa and her family mourn the loss of her dad, we pray that your comfort will dwell -[2090.54 --> 2091.66] richly with them. -[2093.50 --> 2098.98] We also grieve with the Hanson family, following the news of Aaron's crash, and we pray for your -[2098.98 --> 2100.62] comfort and presence to be near to them. -[2100.62 --> 2109.18] We also pray for your power to extend in healing ways to John after his fall, and to all in -[2109.18 --> 2112.20] our church that struggle with physical and mental health. -[2113.10 --> 2116.42] Be near to those who can't be with us today because of those things. -[2118.62 --> 2124.24] As Kevin, Chris, Brandon, and Aaron prepare to travel to Mexico this week, we ask that you -[2124.24 --> 2127.24] bless their travels, their experiences, and their encounters. -[2127.24 --> 2132.98] May this trip be encouraging, especially in the relationships we have as a part of your -[2132.98 --> 2134.00] worldwide church. -[2135.24 --> 2139.56] Please extend these blessings to Cameron as well as she prepares for her mission trip in -[2139.56 --> 2139.70] May. -[2142.30 --> 2145.10] We praise you for your sovereign rule over the world. -[2145.10 --> 2151.56] Even though all of creation groans for the day, you make all things new, and we see brokenness -[2151.56 --> 2154.76] in our neighborhoods and in places like Haiti and the Ukraine. -[2155.48 --> 2160.70] We know that you will bring justice, and we know that your heart is for the oppressed, -[2161.14 --> 2162.64] the downtrodden, and the weary. -[2164.40 --> 2169.24] May we follow your call to bring shalom while we await your majestic return. -[2169.24 --> 2177.30] As we hear your word proclaimed today, refocus our eyes to see your kingdom come. -[2177.94 --> 2179.92] In Jesus' name, amen. -[2199.24 --> 2213.24] We here at Emmanuel have been in a teaching series in the book of Psalms, using the Psalms to -[2213.24 --> 2218.76] explore and understand our different experiences of emotion. -[2218.96 --> 2222.34] And so the series is called Faith and All Our Feelings. -[2222.34 --> 2229.74] And really, just as much as we have been exegeting, looking at and explaining and digging into -[2229.74 --> 2236.44] the truths of Scripture, we've been in that also exegeting our own hearts and minds right -[2236.44 --> 2236.88] alongside. -[2237.88 --> 2244.96] This morning, we're going to do that work through Psalm 30, in particular through a few verses -[2244.96 --> 2246.34] from Psalm 30. -[2246.54 --> 2251.20] And so if you have a Bible handy, I encourage you to have that open and to keep that open. -[2251.20 --> 2257.16] You can also read along with me as you see it on the screen behind me. -[2257.34 --> 2261.60] I'm going to read Psalm 30, verse 6 through 10. -[2264.58 --> 2266.04] It's the Psalm of David. -[2266.82 --> 2267.32] He writes, -[2267.32 --> 2273.68] When I felt secure, I said, I will never be shaken. -[2274.64 --> 2279.24] Lord, when you favored me, you made my royal mountain stand firm. -[2279.24 --> 2285.20] But when you hid your face, I was dismayed. -[2286.38 --> 2288.56] To you, Lord, I called. -[2289.18 --> 2291.10] To the Lord, I cried for mercy. -[2291.58 --> 2295.84] What is gained if I am silenced, if I go down to the pit? -[2296.92 --> 2298.52] Will the dust praise you? -[2299.20 --> 2301.28] Will it proclaim your faithfulness? -[2302.28 --> 2306.26] Hear, Lord, and be merciful to me. -[2306.26 --> 2310.52] Lord, be my help. -[2311.24 --> 2312.52] This is the word of the Lord. -[2319.82 --> 2328.76] When I was younger, principally when I was a teenager, I used to love being scared. -[2328.76 --> 2329.92] Right? -[2329.98 --> 2333.28] And so horror movies and haunted houses, all of it. -[2333.42 --> 2334.36] I loved it. -[2335.50 --> 2341.80] Now, I realized that I loved it because I wasn't actually, like there was nothing to actually be afraid of. -[2342.14 --> 2342.34] Right? -[2342.36 --> 2343.72] There wasn't a real threat of danger. -[2343.82 --> 2345.26] And so caveat all of this with that. -[2345.26 --> 2351.58] One year, it was close to Halloween, a season kind of like we're in right now. -[2351.58 --> 2366.00] But there was a, outside of the town that I grew up in, there was a farm that would convert their cornfield and their barn into like a horror maze experience. -[2366.68 --> 2366.82] Right? -[2366.82 --> 2376.96] And as you walked through the maze, you would end up in the barn and then there would be people and these things all set up and they would be hiding in different boxes or around things. -[2377.04 --> 2380.36] And as you walked by, they would grab you or try to pull you in. -[2380.44 --> 2382.72] And the whole intent was to terrify you. -[2382.72 --> 2391.20] Parts of it would be pitch black and you had to kind of fumble your way through. -[2391.62 --> 2397.92] One year, the way it ended is the last like third of the walk through the barn was just in the dark. -[2398.64 --> 2399.62] You could barely see. -[2399.70 --> 2402.20] And this is before all of us had cell phones in our pockets, right? -[2402.24 --> 2403.58] Like I'm old enough for that to be true. -[2403.66 --> 2405.50] So I didn't have a flashlight, just handy. -[2406.42 --> 2408.56] And so we had to fumble our way out. -[2408.56 --> 2414.50] And so you came around the last corner and then the hallway out was clear and it was lit. -[2414.84 --> 2420.40] And you could see framed like what was probably the tractor door or something like that and just the outside. -[2420.62 --> 2422.90] So you were like, finally, I've made it. -[2422.98 --> 2428.28] And so, you know, we and my buddies were all walking down this hallway and excited for how we've made it through. -[2428.36 --> 2429.44] And all of a sudden we hear a, -[2429.98 --> 2433.82] and we turn around. -[2433.82 --> 2442.40] And behind us, what we thought was a wall turns out to be a secret door framing a perfectly pitch black rectangle. -[2443.96 --> 2445.08] We kind of froze. -[2446.44 --> 2447.28] And then we hear, -[2447.46 --> 2456.22] Someone with a chainsaw comes running out, the biggest man I have ever seen in my entire life, -[2456.60 --> 2462.40] waving a chainsaw around, running after us with the hockey mask on, like the old Jason hockey masks, right? -[2462.40 --> 2464.36] And he comes barreling after us. -[2464.50 --> 2467.82] And we scream and we got out of there as fast as we possibly could. -[2469.26 --> 2469.70] Terrified. -[2473.20 --> 2474.62] Now fast forward a couple years. -[2476.50 --> 2480.74] Our church youth group was in Niagara Falls on Clifton Hill. -[2480.88 --> 2484.04] If you're familiar with that, there's all sorts of tourist areas and traps. -[2484.28 --> 2487.38] And the youth decided that they wanted to go through a haunted house. -[2487.38 --> 2490.50] And so we went through a haunted house. -[2490.68 --> 2492.94] And the experience was similar. -[2493.20 --> 2497.06] You, at the end, had to walk through a narrow hallway that was pitch black. -[2497.22 --> 2499.60] And people would reach out and grab you. -[2499.68 --> 2501.28] And I wasn't scared. -[2502.24 --> 2503.32] It didn't phase me. -[2503.44 --> 2505.42] Now, the youth that we were with, some of them were screaming. -[2505.84 --> 2506.42] Maybe I was old. -[2506.48 --> 2509.46] Maybe I just didn't care and knew that it was safe. -[2509.66 --> 2513.46] And so, but people behind me yelled, -[2513.66 --> 2515.02] Someone touched my hand! -[2515.02 --> 2518.34] And so then I turned around to see what was going on. -[2518.44 --> 2521.58] And someone grabbed my hand from behind a curtain. -[2522.14 --> 2525.26] And instinctively, without thought, I just turned around and went, -[2525.42 --> 2531.06] straight into the curtain where I assumed the center of mass for that person would be. -[2531.34 --> 2534.76] And as I did that crunch, it was a brick wall. -[2535.90 --> 2537.24] I thought I broke my hand. -[2538.20 --> 2541.68] Point is, two different responses to fear. -[2541.68 --> 2542.16] Right? -[2543.54 --> 2545.94] Flight or fight. -[2547.08 --> 2548.90] Now, in the end, both were kind of stupid. -[2549.78 --> 2551.94] And there was no real fear there. -[2552.02 --> 2554.02] Or no real need to be afraid there. -[2554.70 --> 2558.16] Now, as we talk about fear this morning, because that's where we're at, -[2558.42 --> 2560.30] there's fight and flight. -[2560.38 --> 2563.38] And there's also a third way that people might respond. -[2563.48 --> 2564.72] That's sometimes called freeze. -[2565.22 --> 2565.42] Right? -[2565.48 --> 2567.04] So fight, flight, or freeze. -[2567.04 --> 2567.48] Right? -[2567.48 --> 2568.08] Right? -[2568.24 --> 2571.60] Like a deer in the headlights of a car in oncoming traffic. -[2571.92 --> 2572.10] Right? -[2572.20 --> 2576.98] You are terrified and you cannot move or act in any meaningful way. -[2577.04 --> 2582.02] Even though your mind is racing and telling you to jump, you just don't. -[2582.02 --> 2592.82] Now, as we talk about fear this morning, I want to recognize that sometimes our fears are real. -[2593.78 --> 2595.04] Sometimes they're less so. -[2595.88 --> 2599.04] Sometimes the response of fear is good. -[2599.16 --> 2599.30] Right? -[2599.36 --> 2603.38] Like in the case of being attacked, fleeing, that's a good response. -[2603.38 --> 2610.70] I want us to focus in our hearts and imaginations on the not so good or the less good. -[2612.02 --> 2616.66] And so our life is full of fears. -[2617.40 --> 2617.86] Right? -[2617.94 --> 2623.26] And we might experience that fear under a variety of names or a variety of levels or ways. -[2623.36 --> 2629.68] We might think about that as nervousness or worry or anxiety or terror or even horror. -[2629.68 --> 2630.12] Right? -[2631.02 --> 2640.50] But fear, in its sort of basic sense, is the response to a threat of danger. -[2641.36 --> 2646.38] And then fear is animated as flight or fight or freeze. -[2646.50 --> 2647.94] Now, let me be clarifying. -[2648.04 --> 2649.42] Here's just a bit of psychology. -[2649.92 --> 2650.00] Right? -[2650.08 --> 2655.14] That freezing can show up in us in what's called under-functioning. -[2655.52 --> 2655.74] Right? -[2655.74 --> 2659.54] Which is you don't do much of anything or you don't do anything at all. -[2659.54 --> 2661.08] That's a literal sense of freezing. -[2661.48 --> 2665.20] But also, freezing can show up in what is called caretaking. -[2666.38 --> 2666.82] Right? -[2666.86 --> 2670.08] Which is sort of micromanaging the little things that we can control. -[2671.68 --> 2677.66] So it doesn't particularly matter if the danger is real or if it's perceived or if it's exaggerated. -[2678.50 --> 2678.62] Right? -[2678.62 --> 2689.00] But fear is rooted in our experience of control or particularly the lack of control. -[2689.54 --> 2696.30] Fear is rooted in a threat to our experience of control. -[2696.30 --> 2707.40] Now, like I said, fear is a sort of umbrella term that encapsulates within it worry and nervousness and angst and terror. -[2708.44 --> 2716.04] You will recall that alongside of the Scripture, we are working through the book, Allender and Longman, The Cry of the Soul. -[2716.04 --> 2722.20] They help us see our emotions more clearly and learn how to handle them with the gospel. -[2723.70 --> 2727.16] In their book, The Cry of the Soul, they say, -[2727.58 --> 2730.50] Worry and fear are first cousins. -[2730.50 --> 2739.08] Different people fear different things with different levels of intensity, but all of us fear what we cannot control. -[2740.90 --> 2747.12] And so fear is that almost natural response to uncertainty. -[2747.64 --> 2749.10] Uncertainty of our resources. -[2749.10 --> 2761.18] Fear is the response when we are overcome by something, whether it's a force or a situation, whatever it is, when we experience helplessness or we are unable to control. -[2762.22 --> 2764.96] Fear is a response to a threat, right? -[2765.00 --> 2769.54] Whether it's real or perceived, whether it is physical, emotional, or relational. -[2769.54 --> 2781.26] It is uncertainty and the lack of or the loss of or the realization of the loss of control that makes us afraid. -[2782.74 --> 2785.36] David knows that in this psalm as he writes. -[2785.44 --> 2787.54] You see that in Psalm 30. -[2788.26 --> 2790.34] Look at verse 6 again. -[2792.44 --> 2798.92] When I felt secure, I said, I will never be shaken. -[2799.54 --> 2802.14] If we could paraphrase that, right? -[2802.36 --> 2805.68] When everything was good, everything was good. -[2806.90 --> 2812.32] And when everything was good, everything only would be good. -[2812.94 --> 2815.62] He says, I will never be shaken. -[2816.84 --> 2823.00] And then he goes on, Lord, when you favored me, you made my royal mountain stand firm. -[2823.00 --> 2832.52] Now, David's kingdom is first established in Jerusalem or becomes the city of Jerusalem. -[2832.64 --> 2835.82] Jerusalem is also known as the city of David, right? -[2835.86 --> 2839.20] It's the city on top of a mountain sort of in central Israel. -[2839.32 --> 2841.82] Actually, the mountain is Mount Moriah. -[2842.36 --> 2845.72] Now, you might know that from the story of Abraham and Isaac, right? -[2845.76 --> 2848.24] Where Abraham takes Isaac up a mountain. -[2848.40 --> 2850.00] That's the same mountain. -[2850.00 --> 2857.24] Mount Moriah, the city of Jerusalem, is also where in the next generation, David's son Solomon would build the temple. -[2858.90 --> 2863.42] And so, if you take what David says here in a literal sense, -[2864.10 --> 2872.48] he's saying that God has established his kingdom and will uphold it as an everlasting covenant, -[2872.64 --> 2876.36] as a promise for all time, which, of course, is what God did. -[2876.36 --> 2876.66] Right? -[2876.66 --> 2877.26] Right? -[2877.28 --> 2879.98] He made that promise to David in 2 Samuel 7. -[2880.84 --> 2886.88] But if we take that literal meaning and then fill it up or spill it out in a metaphorical sense, -[2887.76 --> 2891.46] it also means that God has given him security. -[2891.68 --> 2894.06] God has held him secure more generally. -[2895.08 --> 2895.40] Right? -[2895.46 --> 2896.76] He's held him fast. -[2897.48 --> 2902.24] That God's favor makes David feel secure. -[2904.44 --> 2905.84] Now, make sure you hear that, right? -[2905.84 --> 2908.08] God's favor makes him feel secure. -[2908.22 --> 2912.96] And I state that again because, and I'll do this quickly because it's not the main point for us, -[2913.02 --> 2914.14] but it's a good reminder. -[2915.08 --> 2915.18] Right? -[2915.76 --> 2919.46] David rightly knows that God's favor makes him secure, -[2920.40 --> 2924.74] but the inverse isn't necessarily true. -[2926.36 --> 2927.30] You follow that? -[2927.84 --> 2927.98] Right? -[2927.98 --> 2928.02] Right? -[2928.06 --> 2932.82] So, meaning just because you feel secure or just because you have a lot of stuff, -[2933.04 --> 2936.68] that doesn't mean you have God's favor, at least not necessarily. -[2938.44 --> 2938.60] Right? -[2938.64 --> 2940.76] And in the extreme form of that way of thinking, -[2941.10 --> 2944.36] we end up getting to the place where we don't need God's favor -[2944.36 --> 2946.48] because you've already got it on your own. -[2947.18 --> 2947.36] Right? -[2947.36 --> 2948.40] You've already figured it out. -[2948.64 --> 2949.42] You've already earned it. -[2949.42 --> 2955.52] David, however, recognizes that when, -[2955.76 --> 2959.36] that he is secure because of God's favor. -[2960.04 --> 2960.80] So David says, -[2960.80 --> 2963.66] When I felt secure, I thought it would be forever. -[2964.30 --> 2964.60] Right? -[2964.68 --> 2967.20] When God favored him, David was immovable. -[2967.66 --> 2970.90] When things felt under control, he was all right. -[2971.32 --> 2978.60] But now, he recalls a time when the secure ground beneath him shook. -[2979.80 --> 2982.96] When the mountain trembled. -[2983.68 --> 2985.80] Notice the end of verse 7. -[2985.80 --> 2993.80] But when you hid your face from me, I was dismayed. -[2995.56 --> 3002.82] Now, remember that God's turning his face toward you is a symbol for his presence, -[3003.20 --> 3004.54] his grace, and his peace. -[3004.88 --> 3008.86] And this comes from the priestly blessing in Numbers 6, 24 to 26. -[3008.98 --> 3009.98] We've seen this a couple times. -[3009.98 --> 3015.60] And so, when David says that God's face is hidden from him, -[3015.80 --> 3019.14] what he means is God's presence, his grace, and his peace, -[3019.26 --> 3023.14] his favor and security are no longer felt. -[3023.98 --> 3027.48] It feels like God is in control, and neither is David. -[3028.50 --> 3030.36] And so, what does the text say? -[3031.12 --> 3033.08] I was dismayed. -[3034.00 --> 3035.88] He feels dismayed. -[3035.88 --> 3040.80] Now, dismay is one of those words that, I mean, I could ask you, -[3040.84 --> 3042.70] when was the last time you used the word dismay? -[3043.86 --> 3044.92] Probably not regularly. -[3045.14 --> 3048.90] It's not a word we ordinarily use in our language anymore. -[3049.10 --> 3051.12] And to be honest, even as I think about it, -[3051.80 --> 3054.00] it sort of seems a little bit sanitized. -[3054.52 --> 3056.32] Like, we're not sure what it means. -[3056.38 --> 3059.20] But the word that David uses is anything but. -[3059.20 --> 3064.04] The word that he uses means to tremble inwardly, -[3064.20 --> 3066.78] to shake with fear, right? -[3066.78 --> 3067.60] To be terrified. -[3068.78 --> 3072.26] Have you ever had a moment like that where you just have no idea what's going on -[3072.26 --> 3078.94] and you just can't seem to control your visceral physiological reaction? -[3079.28 --> 3080.56] That's what David is feeling. -[3082.16 --> 3083.84] He has no control. -[3083.84 --> 3088.14] And it seems to him as though God has no control. -[3088.66 --> 3090.40] And there's danger all around him. -[3090.54 --> 3091.40] It's physical danger. -[3091.52 --> 3092.48] There's relational danger. -[3092.68 --> 3093.78] There's real danger. -[3093.92 --> 3095.26] And there's perceived danger. -[3095.60 --> 3097.14] And so, he is terrified. -[3098.20 --> 3099.22] He is afraid. -[3101.02 --> 3103.78] And this goes a level deeper for him, too. -[3105.26 --> 3107.54] In recalling his prayer, -[3108.56 --> 3110.72] in his recalling this circumstance, -[3110.72 --> 3112.82] he remembers his prayer. -[3113.84 --> 3114.84] In verse 8, -[3114.94 --> 3116.48] To you, Lord, I called. -[3116.88 --> 3119.62] To the Lord, I cried for mercy. -[3119.94 --> 3121.46] And he prays and he pleads, -[3122.04 --> 3124.62] What is gained if I am silenced? -[3124.92 --> 3126.48] If I go down to the pit? -[3127.00 --> 3128.64] Will the dust praise you? -[3128.90 --> 3130.94] Will it proclaim your faithfulness? -[3133.08 --> 3136.80] Do you remember that in Genesis 3, -[3137.70 --> 3140.60] after the rebellion of Adam and Eve in the garden, -[3140.60 --> 3142.88] The snake has deceived them? -[3142.88 --> 3144.58] And they've rebelled against God. -[3144.64 --> 3145.78] And God comes to Adam. -[3146.78 --> 3147.84] And he says, -[3148.66 --> 3150.02] In part, -[3151.06 --> 3152.26] For dust you are, -[3153.26 --> 3155.58] And to dust you will return. -[3156.96 --> 3158.52] Even to this day, -[3158.90 --> 3160.36] At a committal service, -[3160.52 --> 3162.50] At a funeral or an interment, -[3162.58 --> 3163.98] Where the casket or the urn -[3163.98 --> 3165.98] Is being placed into the ground, -[3165.98 --> 3168.24] The pastor might stand and pray, -[3168.40 --> 3169.32] Something like, -[3169.76 --> 3172.26] We commit this body to the ground. -[3172.66 --> 3173.64] Earth to earth, -[3174.30 --> 3175.18] Ashes to ashes, -[3175.88 --> 3177.62] Dust to dust. -[3179.92 --> 3183.36] David is recalling a fear of death. -[3184.50 --> 3188.20] A fear of the experience of death. -[3188.70 --> 3190.08] Looming before him, -[3191.16 --> 3192.24] Happening around him. -[3192.24 --> 3195.36] He feared death. -[3195.52 --> 3199.00] And he doesn't hide that fear from God. -[3200.66 --> 3203.92] Let's not miss the truth here, -[3204.02 --> 3206.80] The deeper and more comprehensive truth. -[3206.94 --> 3210.00] Because death is a physical reality, -[3210.26 --> 3212.16] But it also is symbolic, -[3212.48 --> 3214.70] And it is present in so much more. -[3214.92 --> 3216.68] We feel death, -[3216.78 --> 3217.64] And we fear it, -[3217.86 --> 3218.94] When the things, -[3219.08 --> 3219.78] Or the dreams, -[3219.90 --> 3220.48] Or the people, -[3220.66 --> 3221.64] Or the ideas, -[3221.64 --> 3225.22] That have been core to our identity, -[3225.72 --> 3226.54] Are taken away. -[3227.44 --> 3228.16] Are threatened. -[3229.84 --> 3229.98] Right? -[3230.24 --> 3231.74] To take that away, -[3231.88 --> 3234.00] Is a euphemism that we use for death, -[3234.12 --> 3235.04] All the time. -[3236.12 --> 3236.28] Right? -[3236.36 --> 3238.50] Oma was taken from us. -[3239.92 --> 3240.14] Right? -[3240.18 --> 3243.10] My job was taken from me. -[3244.98 --> 3248.20] These little experiences of death, -[3248.82 --> 3250.80] Bring fear. -[3252.46 --> 3252.76] Again, -[3253.70 --> 3254.98] Allender and Longman, -[3255.04 --> 3255.92] They summarize it, -[3256.28 --> 3256.86] And they say, -[3257.64 --> 3258.82] We want control, -[3259.56 --> 3260.68] We hate failure. -[3261.74 --> 3265.28] And the more we sense the possibility of personal or physical death, -[3265.38 --> 3266.86] The greater our helplessness. -[3267.28 --> 3267.52] Therefore, -[3267.68 --> 3270.00] The more impotent we see ourselves, -[3270.36 --> 3272.60] The greater our fear. -[3272.60 --> 3276.12] And so, -[3276.20 --> 3277.26] What are we supposed to do with that? -[3278.30 --> 3282.44] What do we do with these kinds of fears? -[3283.66 --> 3283.78] Right? -[3283.82 --> 3284.00] And so, -[3284.06 --> 3284.24] Again, -[3284.30 --> 3284.70] I'll say it, -[3284.72 --> 3286.98] In a sort of basic biological sense, -[3287.40 --> 3289.24] Fear can be helpful. -[3289.50 --> 3296.58] Fear is the trigger that causes you to run from the rock slide that's coming down the mountain that you're sleeping at the base of. -[3296.58 --> 3298.02] That's good. -[3299.48 --> 3299.96] Right? -[3300.10 --> 3307.18] Fear is the trigger that causes you to jump in and fight when your child is being attacked by a dog. -[3307.60 --> 3308.20] That's good. -[3309.82 --> 3317.10] Fear is even the trigger, right, when you nest, right, to get all those things in order in your home before the baby comes. -[3317.10 --> 3317.54] Right? -[3318.54 --> 3321.72] That's a trigger of fear and a response of caretaking. -[3323.50 --> 3330.76] But there's also the kinds of fear that keep you stuck in your comfort zones. -[3333.08 --> 3333.24] Yep. -[3333.70 --> 3344.34] Almost everything that we do in this life is to increase our security and our safety and to increase our comfort. -[3344.34 --> 3355.08] The entire Western social worldview is built on this value, to increase our security and to increase our comfort. -[3355.24 --> 3363.90] And we manage our anxiety and our fears by knowing the limits of our comfort zone and then not going past them. -[3366.08 --> 3372.02] And again, to be clear, a comfort zone in many cases is good for us and is beneficial for a time. -[3372.02 --> 3373.02] Right? -[3373.02 --> 3377.52] Our comfort zones can stop us from doing stupid and unwise things. -[3378.76 --> 3391.04] However, getting stuck in our comfort zones can also have the impact of keeping us trapped in certain parts of life or in certain experiences of life. -[3392.22 --> 3392.32] Right? -[3392.40 --> 3401.02] Comfort zones, properly understood, are meant to be a sort of like porous bubble that can expand and contract as required. -[3402.02 --> 3411.12] But when they become solid, they trap us in that place. -[3412.74 --> 3417.44] Comfort zones can easily become walls that keep us locked in. -[3418.82 --> 3427.84] Now, I've said this before, but God doesn't live in your comfort zone. -[3427.84 --> 3428.84] Right? -[3428.84 --> 3431.64] It's because you don't need him there. -[3432.80 --> 3433.30] Right? -[3433.32 --> 3436.32] When we're in our comfort zones, we've got it all figured out. -[3436.84 --> 3442.08] We've set everything up perfectly to keep us secure and to keep us comfortable. -[3442.76 --> 3444.02] And so we don't need God. -[3445.56 --> 3445.76] Right? -[3445.76 --> 3450.14] But God wants us to see that he is our security. -[3450.60 --> 3452.74] That he is our comfort. -[3453.28 --> 3455.46] Not the zone that you've created. -[3455.56 --> 3459.08] Not the bubble of your life and experience of life. -[3459.58 --> 3467.34] And so part of a life of faith, right, is walking up to the edge of your comfort zone and then seeing what happens when you take the next step. -[3467.34 --> 3469.82] Because that's where God is. -[3470.90 --> 3472.24] That's where you need him. -[3473.04 --> 3477.30] And where you see that need and can live into that need. -[3478.98 --> 3479.30] Right? -[3479.34 --> 3491.28] In the case of our comfort zones, the fear that was the reason for creating it is no longer there to protect us. -[3491.28 --> 3493.80] The comfort zone no longer protects us. -[3494.12 --> 3496.06] It ends up imprisoning us. -[3501.68 --> 3509.28] Fear also has a tendency to change the way you see the world. -[3510.44 --> 3512.68] And to change the way we see ourselves in the world. -[3514.04 --> 3515.36] We looked at anger previously. -[3515.82 --> 3517.86] Anger makes us blame others. -[3518.48 --> 3520.36] Fear makes us blame ourselves. -[3521.28 --> 3532.40] And we blame ourselves, right, because even a perceived failure of ourselves is an attempt to see the world through that lens of control. -[3533.76 --> 3534.24] Right? -[3534.26 --> 3536.40] Because, well, I made the mistake. -[3536.76 --> 3537.68] So I can fix it. -[3538.20 --> 3538.40] Right? -[3538.42 --> 3540.20] I can manage my fear. -[3540.58 --> 3540.72] Right? -[3540.72 --> 3547.34] But fear distorts our perception of the nature of the dangers that are facing us. -[3547.42 --> 3549.76] It distorts our sense of reality. -[3551.28 --> 3552.68] Let me give you an example of this. -[3554.14 --> 3562.60] One of my favorite stories in the Bible, not because of this particular story, but because of the second part of it, is in Numbers 13. -[3563.88 --> 3564.00] Right? -[3564.06 --> 3565.02] It's the story. -[3566.14 --> 3567.14] Let's give a context. -[3567.26 --> 3570.36] So the Israelites have left Egypt. -[3570.78 --> 3571.00] Right? -[3571.06 --> 3572.62] They were slaves for 400 years. -[3572.76 --> 3575.16] Moses comes and he leads the people out. -[3575.16 --> 3576.64] So they've left Egypt. -[3576.78 --> 3579.44] That is, they've seen the ten plagues and the power of God. -[3579.56 --> 3582.80] They've walked through the Sea of Reeds in the power of God. -[3582.88 --> 3586.98] They've seen and won the battle with the Amalekites in the power of God. -[3586.98 --> 3594.84] They've seen God show up on Sinai and Moses radiate his glory from after that with lightning and thunder cracking. -[3595.32 --> 3595.40] Right? -[3595.48 --> 3597.54] They've seen water from a rock. -[3597.54 --> 3602.00] They have seen day in and day out manna and quail as God provides. -[3602.70 --> 3609.86] They have seen God go before them in a pillar of cloud and a pillar of fire for probably a year or more by this point. -[3610.06 --> 3615.12] And they get to the land, the border of the land that God has promised to give them. -[3615.12 --> 3620.64] And so they send 12 spies into the land to check it out. -[3620.70 --> 3622.56] And the spies go in for 40 days. -[3623.56 --> 3627.92] After 40 days, those spies return with their report. -[3629.06 --> 3634.28] Now Caleb and Joshua, at the time young men, come back and they say, -[3634.60 --> 3635.26] We should go in. -[3635.34 --> 3638.08] We should take the land because surely God is with us. -[3638.36 --> 3639.46] Think of everything we've seen. -[3639.46 --> 3647.82] But the rest of the spies call the people that they have explored a land of giants. -[3649.10 --> 3650.16] In fact, they go even further. -[3650.32 --> 3650.58] They say, -[3650.98 --> 3653.24] They are descendants of fallen angels. -[3654.48 --> 3655.20] And then they say, -[3656.58 --> 3662.90] We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked to them the same. -[3662.90 --> 3669.78] They had just spent the previous year seeing all of those amazing things from God, -[3669.94 --> 3676.34] but their fear redefined reality about themselves and about God. -[3676.96 --> 3682.54] Their fear turned them into grasshoppers, but also, right, even more significantly here, -[3682.64 --> 3685.04] their fear turned God into a grasshopper. -[3686.38 --> 3687.74] That's what fear does. -[3687.74 --> 3695.24] So what does the Bible tell us to do with our fears? -[3695.90 --> 3703.78] For you, now, here, where does this leave the context of this conversation and fill out to the rest of your life? -[3705.48 --> 3708.92] Now, in actuality, I think the answer is pretty simple, -[3710.04 --> 3714.02] but it proves to be very difficult in life. -[3714.02 --> 3718.02] I think there are primarily here two answers. -[3718.78 --> 3721.46] The first answer is modeled to us by David. -[3721.94 --> 3722.68] David says, -[3723.18 --> 3725.88] When you hid your face, I was terrified. -[3727.04 --> 3730.12] To you, Lord, I called. -[3730.70 --> 3733.32] To the Lord, I cried for mercy. -[3734.58 --> 3738.76] I think the first answer, when we face fears, is to go to God. -[3739.18 --> 3740.20] It is to pray. -[3740.52 --> 3742.64] It is to come into his presence in worship. -[3742.64 --> 3746.16] Our friendship is to submit ourselves to the truth of who he is, right, -[3746.20 --> 3750.56] as defined by his own revelation, not by our experience of him, -[3750.74 --> 3753.04] not by our experience of the world around him, -[3753.26 --> 3758.04] but because, remember here, right, fear redefines our perceptions of the world, -[3758.10 --> 3760.96] so we need to come to God who defines the world. -[3760.96 --> 3769.34] And I get how easy that can sound. -[3770.72 --> 3773.06] And I know how hard that can be to do, -[3773.68 --> 3778.42] especially because in our fear, we have a tendency to isolate, right, -[3778.44 --> 3782.26] to pull back from community and to pull back from God. -[3782.26 --> 3787.28] But the truth is, and look around, literally look around, look beside you, -[3787.62 --> 3789.46] look at the people here with you, -[3789.76 --> 3793.30] because God has given you a community to be part of. -[3793.38 --> 3798.54] He's given you a community to experience his presence in and through. -[3799.88 --> 3804.54] God has given us brothers and sisters who will help us see our fear -[3804.54 --> 3809.18] and the things that make us afraid and help us see God in the midst of them. -[3809.18 --> 3813.62] God has given us brothers and sisters who will carry us when we can't carry ourselves. -[3813.80 --> 3817.84] God has given us a church family through whom he gives us himself. -[3819.84 --> 3823.72] And so, just as you are here called to bring your fears to God, -[3823.88 --> 3827.00] bring your fears to the community in confession. -[3827.92 --> 3832.96] Just as you cry out to God, cry out with your brothers and sisters in the faith. -[3834.26 --> 3838.90] God promises that he will never leave us nor forsake us. -[3839.18 --> 3843.94] And one of the main ways, the most concrete ways that he fulfills that promise -[3843.94 --> 3845.68] is by giving you each other. -[3847.10 --> 3850.12] By giving you a family to be part of. -[3851.88 --> 3857.90] The reality is, there is no such thing as an individualist Christian. -[3857.90 --> 3868.36] To be Christian is to belong to Christ, to be his bride, to be part of the body made up of every tribe, tongue, and nation. -[3868.50 --> 3872.40] It is to stand together as the great cloud of witnesses. -[3872.98 --> 3876.54] You are never alone in that. -[3876.54 --> 3887.68] And the second thing the Bible tells us to do with our fear, and in our experience of fear, is to don't. -[3890.08 --> 3894.18] Over and over, the Bible seems to say, just don't. -[3895.18 --> 3896.12] Don't be afraid. -[3896.54 --> 3897.30] Do not fear. -[3897.30 --> 3903.22] In fact, because I know that some of you are going to pull me aside after if I don't mention this, -[3903.64 --> 3905.92] there's an idea that goes around, right? -[3906.00 --> 3908.12] And people have mentioned this to me before, that, -[3908.54 --> 3910.08] do you know that the Bible says, -[3910.56 --> 3913.04] do not fear 365 times? -[3913.82 --> 3915.32] One for every day of the year? -[3917.24 --> 3920.40] Now, I don't know where that idea comes from, -[3920.40 --> 3924.12] but because I know some of us are perpetuating it, -[3924.40 --> 3925.72] I did a word study this week, -[3926.28 --> 3927.10] and I looked at it. -[3927.42 --> 3930.36] And not to burst your meme Christian bubble, -[3931.48 --> 3932.50] but it's just not true. -[3933.76 --> 3933.92] Right? -[3934.04 --> 3936.86] So, just be careful what you quote, right, -[3936.94 --> 3940.28] as you Pinterest post your gospel summaries. -[3940.76 --> 3941.36] Make sure it's true. -[3942.46 --> 3945.38] Now, what I did do was explore the various ways -[3945.38 --> 3948.04] that the expression, do not be afraid, -[3948.58 --> 3949.70] is used in the Bible. -[3949.70 --> 3952.22] And I did count over 150 times. -[3953.52 --> 3953.92] Right? -[3953.98 --> 3954.62] And there's different ways. -[3954.74 --> 3955.58] Do not be afraid. -[3956.04 --> 3956.92] Don't be afraid. -[3957.02 --> 3957.64] Do not fear. -[3957.82 --> 3958.80] No one to make you afraid. -[3959.34 --> 3960.44] You can see them behind me. -[3960.70 --> 3963.04] The numbers there are the amount of times that they are used. -[3963.96 --> 3965.36] Now, it's not 365. -[3966.16 --> 3966.82] It's about 150. -[3967.42 --> 3968.90] And I may have missed one or two, -[3969.08 --> 3971.94] and the research that I did seems to verify -[3971.94 --> 3974.06] that it numbers between 140 and 150. -[3974.74 --> 3977.86] The point isn't the number. -[3977.86 --> 3980.08] Remember, it's the fact. -[3981.72 --> 3982.90] The Bible says, -[3983.18 --> 3984.26] when we are afraid, -[3984.88 --> 3985.90] to not be afraid. -[3986.64 --> 3988.68] Now, again, I get that that sounds circular. -[3988.84 --> 3990.06] It sounds like a tautology. -[3990.44 --> 3992.76] At minimum, it sounds too easy -[3992.76 --> 3995.72] or even dismissive of the real fears that we have. -[3995.72 --> 3998.08] But remember, right, -[3998.32 --> 4001.40] that the root of our wrong fear -[4001.40 --> 4003.24] is a story, -[4003.84 --> 4005.50] is a false story -[4005.50 --> 4007.80] that we are telling ourselves -[4007.80 --> 4009.04] about ourselves. -[4009.76 --> 4010.16] Right? -[4010.16 --> 4011.14] It's a false story -[4011.14 --> 4012.12] that we are telling ourselves -[4012.12 --> 4013.60] about our place in the world, -[4013.68 --> 4015.30] about the strength of our enemies -[4015.30 --> 4017.14] or the challenges that we face -[4017.14 --> 4019.20] or the lack of strength that we have -[4019.20 --> 4021.02] or the lack of strength that God has. -[4021.92 --> 4022.04] Right? -[4022.04 --> 4024.26] Fear is rooted in a false story -[4024.26 --> 4025.34] that we tell ourselves. -[4025.44 --> 4026.16] And so the false -[4026.16 --> 4028.70] or the antidote to false stories -[4028.70 --> 4030.94] is true stories. -[4032.34 --> 4032.46] Right? -[4032.54 --> 4035.62] Don't fear by hearing God's story, -[4035.94 --> 4037.62] the true and better story, -[4037.88 --> 4040.40] over and over and over again. -[4040.58 --> 4042.96] And then put that in your pocket. -[4043.48 --> 4043.70] Right? -[4043.78 --> 4045.20] Put that in your heart. -[4045.20 --> 4048.22] Let that deeply plant in who you are. -[4048.22 --> 4050.82] Like, if there was ever a call -[4050.82 --> 4052.94] to memorize Scripture -[4052.94 --> 4054.44] and the teachings of Scripture, -[4054.68 --> 4056.12] it's in the face of our fears. -[4057.18 --> 4059.92] Because so easily those stories get loud, -[4060.00 --> 4061.74] we need to make the gospel story louder. -[4064.06 --> 4065.56] And so what is your only comfort -[4065.56 --> 4067.24] in life and in death? -[4068.90 --> 4069.08] Right? -[4069.12 --> 4070.20] That I am not my own, -[4070.28 --> 4071.94] but belong body and soul -[4071.94 --> 4073.80] in life and in death -[4073.80 --> 4075.76] to my faithful Savior, -[4076.16 --> 4076.96] Jesus Christ. -[4076.96 --> 4079.56] that He has fully paid -[4079.56 --> 4080.94] for all my sins -[4080.94 --> 4081.96] with His precious blood. -[4082.02 --> 4083.62] That He has set me free -[4083.62 --> 4085.70] from the tyranny of the devil. -[4087.14 --> 4088.92] Notice how that rightly orders -[4088.92 --> 4090.40] our enemy. -[4091.62 --> 4092.76] Rightly defines -[4092.76 --> 4095.42] who has the power. -[4096.28 --> 4098.14] He also watches over me, -[4098.22 --> 4099.80] this one who defeated the devil. -[4099.80 --> 4101.56] He also watches over me -[4101.56 --> 4102.32] in such a way -[4102.32 --> 4103.82] that not a hair can fall -[4103.82 --> 4104.48] from my head -[4104.48 --> 4105.52] without the will -[4105.52 --> 4106.82] of my Father in heaven. -[4106.96 --> 4107.80] In fact, -[4108.10 --> 4109.08] all things, -[4109.56 --> 4111.14] really? -[4111.96 --> 4112.94] All things -[4112.94 --> 4114.02] must work together -[4114.02 --> 4115.58] for my salvation. -[4116.58 --> 4118.22] Because I belong to Him, -[4118.42 --> 4118.70] Christ, -[4118.82 --> 4119.74] by His Holy Spirit, -[4120.04 --> 4120.74] assures me -[4120.74 --> 4121.56] of eternal life -[4121.56 --> 4122.68] and makes me ready -[4122.68 --> 4123.36] and willing -[4123.36 --> 4124.36] from now on -[4124.36 --> 4125.90] to live for Him. -[4127.38 --> 4128.74] That's Heidelberg Catechism -[4128.74 --> 4129.60] question and answer -[4129.60 --> 4130.40] one. -[4130.40 --> 4132.88] put that in your chamber -[4132.88 --> 4134.50] to combat fear. -[4136.10 --> 4137.62] Memorize that story, -[4137.84 --> 4138.48] that truth, -[4138.54 --> 4139.38] and tell it to yourself -[4139.38 --> 4140.46] over and over -[4140.46 --> 4141.50] and over again. -[4142.86 --> 4143.32] Therefore, -[4143.54 --> 4144.76] we will not fear. -[4145.44 --> 4146.30] Though the earth -[4146.30 --> 4147.10] give way, -[4147.46 --> 4148.30] the mountains fall -[4148.30 --> 4149.10] into the heart -[4149.10 --> 4149.66] of the sea, -[4149.80 --> 4150.58] though its waters -[4150.58 --> 4151.94] roar and foam -[4151.94 --> 4152.76] and the mountains -[4152.76 --> 4154.32] quake with their surging. -[4154.32 --> 4157.48] put that in your brain. -[4159.20 --> 4159.98] Hold that -[4159.98 --> 4161.08] in your heart. -[4162.42 --> 4163.16] The Spirit -[4163.16 --> 4164.00] that you receive -[4164.00 --> 4165.36] does not make you slaves -[4165.36 --> 4166.48] so that you will live again -[4166.48 --> 4167.20] in fear. -[4167.92 --> 4168.30] Rather, -[4168.84 --> 4169.42] the Spirit -[4169.42 --> 4170.62] you received -[4170.62 --> 4171.48] brought about -[4171.48 --> 4172.24] your adoption -[4172.24 --> 4173.36] to sonship -[4173.36 --> 4174.52] and by Him -[4174.52 --> 4175.48] that is the Spirit -[4175.48 --> 4176.16] we cry, -[4176.38 --> 4176.86] Abba, -[4177.28 --> 4177.82] Father. -[4177.82 --> 4184.64] The antidote -[4184.64 --> 4186.38] to false stories -[4186.38 --> 4188.78] is a true story. -[4189.78 --> 4191.30] The true story says -[4191.30 --> 4192.32] there is no fear -[4192.32 --> 4193.38] in love -[4193.38 --> 4194.62] but perfect love -[4194.62 --> 4196.10] drives out -[4196.10 --> 4197.28] fear. -[4198.56 --> 4200.10] I mentioned that story -[4200.10 --> 4201.64] of the spies -[4201.64 --> 4202.80] going into -[4202.80 --> 4204.02] the land -[4204.02 --> 4205.04] and coming back -[4205.04 --> 4205.88] and allowing their fear -[4205.88 --> 4206.66] to dictate them. -[4206.66 --> 4208.14] because Caleb -[4208.14 --> 4209.46] and Joshua -[4209.46 --> 4210.78] were the only ones -[4210.78 --> 4211.86] who faithfully said -[4211.86 --> 4212.64] we can do this, -[4212.92 --> 4213.58] you will recall -[4213.58 --> 4214.88] the Lord said -[4214.88 --> 4216.00] this generation -[4216.00 --> 4216.98] will pass away -[4216.98 --> 4217.62] before you -[4217.62 --> 4218.90] enter into the land. -[4219.02 --> 4219.84] So 40 years -[4219.84 --> 4220.38] of wandering -[4220.38 --> 4221.52] was the punishment -[4221.52 --> 4222.70] for them making God -[4222.70 --> 4223.38] a grasshopper -[4223.38 --> 4224.62] for not seeing Him -[4224.62 --> 4225.58] as He truly was -[4225.58 --> 4226.12] in their midst -[4226.12 --> 4226.90] but He said -[4226.90 --> 4228.10] Joshua and Caleb -[4228.10 --> 4229.44] you will get to go. -[4230.50 --> 4231.08] So do a little bit -[4231.08 --> 4231.62] of math here -[4231.62 --> 4233.14] because it's likely -[4233.14 --> 4234.22] that by the time -[4234.22 --> 4234.74] the Israelites -[4234.74 --> 4235.62] now come to enter -[4235.62 --> 4235.96] the land -[4235.96 --> 4236.76] Joshua and Caleb -[4236.76 --> 4238.08] are near their 80s. -[4239.62 --> 4240.52] Joshua is -[4240.52 --> 4241.34] Moses' successor -[4241.34 --> 4242.16] he gets to lead -[4242.16 --> 4242.50] the people -[4242.50 --> 4243.34] Caleb is still -[4243.34 --> 4244.40] representative -[4244.40 --> 4245.56] and head of his tribe -[4245.56 --> 4247.82] and as that story -[4247.82 --> 4248.62] comes about -[4248.62 --> 4250.54] Caleb is probably 80 -[4250.54 --> 4252.50] and he begs -[4252.50 --> 4254.42] he begs Joshua -[4254.42 --> 4255.32] who's their leader -[4255.32 --> 4256.70] to be the first one -[4256.70 --> 4257.46] into the land -[4257.46 --> 4258.88] to be the first one -[4258.88 --> 4259.68] across the Jordan -[4259.68 --> 4260.48] to be the one -[4260.48 --> 4261.04] who marches -[4261.04 --> 4261.40] at the head -[4261.40 --> 4262.08] of his armies -[4262.08 --> 4263.78] because he knows -[4263.78 --> 4264.76] he remembers -[4264.76 --> 4264.78] he remembers -[4264.78 --> 4265.78] he has seen -[4265.78 --> 4266.58] God show up. -[4267.52 --> 4268.64] That's the faith -[4268.64 --> 4269.88] of an 80 year old -[4269.88 --> 4271.02] who has rightly -[4271.02 --> 4272.52] understood his fears -[4272.52 --> 4273.76] and subjected them -[4273.76 --> 4274.90] to who God -[4274.90 --> 4276.52] truly is. -[4279.04 --> 4280.58] Whether you're 14 -[4280.58 --> 4282.58] or 84 -[4282.58 --> 4286.02] hear the story -[4286.02 --> 4287.78] the true story -[4287.78 --> 4289.10] of who God is -[4289.10 --> 4291.16] and let that -[4291.16 --> 4292.72] speak power -[4292.72 --> 4294.74] to the stories -[4294.74 --> 4295.66] we tell ourselves -[4295.66 --> 4296.24] of fear -[4296.24 --> 4298.68] and let us -[4298.68 --> 4299.92] like Caleb -[4299.92 --> 4302.06] march into -[4302.06 --> 4303.12] whatever battle -[4303.12 --> 4303.96] for life -[4303.96 --> 4304.54] and faith -[4304.54 --> 4305.34] awaits -[4305.34 --> 4306.30] and we will -[4306.30 --> 4307.04] see -[4307.04 --> 4308.16] God -[4308.16 --> 4309.16] is -[4309.16 --> 4310.26] faithful. -[4310.26 --> 4312.28] we may not -[4312.28 --> 4313.20] go in safety -[4313.20 --> 4314.82] but we will -[4314.82 --> 4315.34] go in his -[4315.34 --> 4315.80] goodness -[4315.80 --> 4317.32] and his -[4317.32 --> 4317.86] goodness -[4317.86 --> 4318.68] is worth -[4318.68 --> 4319.44] more than -[4319.44 --> 4320.68] any idol -[4320.68 --> 4321.40] of safety -[4321.40 --> 4322.50] or comfort -[4322.50 --> 4323.80] you may -[4323.80 --> 4324.76] have created. -[4325.24 --> 4325.52] Go -[4325.52 --> 4326.80] in the -[4326.80 --> 4327.18] goodness -[4327.18 --> 4328.74] of God. -[4329.62 --> 4330.24] Do not -[4330.24 --> 4331.32] be -[4331.32 --> 4332.40] afraid. -[4333.10 --> 4333.34] Amen? -[4334.34 --> 4335.10] Let's pray -[4335.10 --> 4335.44] together. -[4335.44 --> 4340.28] Lord our God -[4340.28 --> 4341.70] open our eyes -[4341.70 --> 4343.02] open our hearts -[4343.02 --> 4343.96] to the truth -[4343.96 --> 4344.94] of who -[4344.94 --> 4346.30] you are -[4346.30 --> 4347.60] and may the -[4347.60 --> 4348.40] truth of who -[4348.40 --> 4349.02] you are -[4349.02 --> 4350.16] the truth -[4350.16 --> 4351.24] of your word -[4351.24 --> 4352.26] also expose -[4352.26 --> 4353.42] the lies -[4353.42 --> 4354.76] of our fears -[4354.76 --> 4358.60] and may you -[4358.60 --> 4360.14] by your -[4360.14 --> 4361.12] Holy Spirit -[4361.12 --> 4362.02] in your -[4362.02 --> 4363.10] perfect love -[4363.10 --> 4364.60] drive out -[4364.60 --> 4365.74] our wrong -[4365.74 --> 4366.74] fears. -[4368.42 --> 4369.68] So order -[4369.68 --> 4370.96] our hearts -[4370.96 --> 4371.84] that we -[4371.84 --> 4373.22] are overwhelmed -[4373.22 --> 4374.66] by who -[4374.66 --> 4375.40] you are -[4375.40 --> 4376.06] and what -[4376.06 --> 4377.22] you are -[4377.22 --> 4377.58] doing. -[4378.54 --> 4379.06] Captivate -[4379.06 --> 4379.80] our hearts -[4379.80 --> 4380.58] with your -[4380.58 --> 4381.26] love that -[4381.26 --> 4381.80] we might -[4381.80 --> 4382.70] love you -[4382.70 --> 4383.56] in response -[4383.56 --> 4383.92] and that -[4383.92 --> 4384.28] we might -[4384.28 --> 4384.84] go from -[4384.84 --> 4385.44] this place -[4385.44 --> 4386.48] not afraid -[4386.48 --> 4386.78] that we -[4386.78 --> 4387.20] might go -[4387.20 --> 4387.60] from this -[4387.60 --> 4387.84] place -[4387.84 --> 4388.48] spurred out -[4388.48 --> 4388.74] of our -[4388.74 --> 4389.40] comfort zones -[4389.40 --> 4390.08] taking that -[4390.08 --> 4390.88] step in -[4390.88 --> 4391.62] faith and -[4391.62 --> 4392.06] that we -[4392.06 --> 4392.96] might with -[4392.96 --> 4393.92] heart and -[4393.92 --> 4394.36] hands -[4394.36 --> 4395.18] open wide -[4395.18 --> 4396.38] see you -[4396.38 --> 4397.48] at work -[4397.48 --> 4398.32] in the -[4398.32 --> 4398.62] world. -[4399.84 --> 4400.48] Go before -[4400.48 --> 4400.90] us Lord -[4400.90 --> 4401.54] God and -[4401.54 --> 4402.56] go in -[4402.56 --> 4403.18] us that -[4403.18 --> 4403.74] we might -[4403.74 --> 4404.52] not be -[4404.52 --> 4405.44] afraid. -[4406.40 --> 4406.74] In Jesus -[4406.74 --> 4407.36] Christ I -[4407.36 --> 4407.60] pray. -[4408.22 --> 4408.56] Amen. -[4408.56 --> 4408.66] Amen. -[4408.66 --> 4408.68] Amen. -[4408.68 --> 4408.72] Amen. -[4408.72 --> 4408.76] Amen. -[4408.76 --> 4408.78] Amen. -[4408.78 --> 4408.80] Amen. -[4408.80 --> 4410.72] Amen. -[4410.72 --> 4412.66] Amen. -[4412.66 --> 4412.72] Amen. -[4412.72 --> 4414.72] Amen. -[4414.72 --> 4416.72] Amen. -[4416.72 --> 4417.72] Amen. -[4417.72 --> 4418.72] Amen. -[4418.72 --> 4419.72] Amen. -[4419.72 --> 4420.72] Amen. -[4420.72 --> 4421.72] Amen. -[4421.72 --> 4422.72] Amen. -[4422.72 --> 4422.76] Amen. -[4422.76 --> 4423.76] Amen. -[4423.76 --> 4424.34] Amen. -[4424.34 --> 4427.50] Amen. -[4427.50 --> 4427.58] Amen. -[4434.58 --> 4436.06] Amen. -[4436.06 --> 4439.14] in life and death -[4439.14 --> 4443.88] Christ alone, Christ alone -[4443.88 --> 4449.10] What is our holy confidence -[4449.10 --> 4454.16] Matters all to Him belong -[4454.16 --> 4459.46] Who holds our days within His hand -[4459.46 --> 4464.22] What comes upon from His command -[4464.22 --> 4469.44] And what will lead us to the end -[4469.44 --> 4475.06] The love of Christ in which we stand -[4475.06 --> 4482.62] O sing Alleluia -[4482.62 --> 4487.10] Our host brings eternal -[4487.10 --> 4492.46] O sing Alleluia -[4492.46 --> 4496.54] Now and ever we confess -[4496.54 --> 4500.68] Christ our hope and life and death -[4500.68 --> 4512.94] What truth can calm the troubled soul -[4512.94 --> 4518.48] God is good, God is good -[4518.48 --> 4523.16] Where is His grace and goodness known -[4523.16 --> 4529.10] In our grace, Redeemer's blood -[4529.10 --> 4534.16] Who holds our faith when fears arise -[4534.16 --> 4539.38] Who stands above the stormy trine -[4539.38 --> 4544.54] Who sends the wings that bring us light -[4544.54 --> 4552.38] Unto the shoulder of God and Christ -[4552.38 --> 4557.60] O sing Alleluia -[4557.60 --> 4562.72] Our host brings eternal -[4562.72 --> 4567.38] O sing Alleluia -[4567.38 --> 4568.60] Alleluia -[4568.60 --> 4572.60] Now and ever we have rest -[4572.60 --> 4577.60] Christ our hope and life and death -[4577.60 --> 4583.82] Christ our hope and life and death -[4583.82 --> 4585.82] Unto the grave -[4585.82 --> 4588.82] What will we say -[4588.82 --> 4591.82] Christ He lives -[4591.82 --> 4593.82] Christ He lives -[4593.82 --> 4594.96] Christ He lives -[4594.96 --> 4599.82] And what reward will heaven bring -[4599.82 --> 4608.04] Everlasting life and death -[4608.04 --> 4610.04] And we will rise to meet the Lord -[4610.04 --> 4616.04] And sin and death will be destroyed -[4616.04 --> 4621.26] And we will feast in endless joy -[4621.26 --> 4626.26] When Christ He lives forevermore -[4626.26 --> 4635.26] Oh sing Alleluia -[4635.26 --> 4639.26] Our host brings eternal -[4639.26 --> 4644.48] All sing Alleluia -[4644.48 --> 4648.48] Now and ever we have rest -[4648.48 --> 4653.48] Christ our hope and life and death -[4653.48 --> 4658.48] O sing Alleluia -[4658.48 --> 4663.14] Our host brings eternal -[4663.14 --> 4668.36] All sing Alleluia -[4668.36 --> 4672.36] Now and ever we have rest -[4672.36 --> 4676.36] Christ our hope and life and death -[4676.36 --> 4680.36] Now and ever we have rest -[4680.36 --> 4686.36] Christ our hope and life and death -[4686.36 --> 4701.62] As you go into this week -[4701.62 --> 4704.22] Go with God -[4704.22 --> 4707.84] Receive His blessing -[4707.84 --> 4711.04] For the days and week to come -[4711.04 --> 4714.78] May God go before you -[4714.78 --> 4716.82] To prepare a way for you -[4716.82 --> 4719.22] May God go behind you -[4719.22 --> 4720.66] To protect you -[4720.66 --> 4723.34] May God go beneath you -[4723.34 --> 4724.38] To support you -[4724.38 --> 4726.82] May God go beside you -[4726.82 --> 4728.10] To befriend you -[4728.10 --> 4730.82] Do not be afraid -[4730.82 --> 4732.62] Let the blessing of God -[4732.62 --> 4733.42] Come upon you today -[4733.42 --> 4735.12] Do not be afraid -[4735.12 --> 4738.12] But go in His peace -[4738.12 --> 4741.20] To love and serve the Lord -[4741.20 --> 4742.68] Amen -[4744.78 --> 4748.74] Lord I come to love and hear you -[4748.74 --> 4748.82] If e HAVE Deus -[4748.82 --> 4751.60] Beoration would -[4751.60 --> 4753.44] You may be afraid -[4753.44 --> 4753.60] Lord I come to future -[4753.60 --> 4754.78] Please God -[4754.78 --> 4762.34] Be -[4762.34 --> 4762.60] Lord I come to love and hear you -[4762.66 --> 4763.12] I come to you -[4763.12 --> 4763.50] starch Jesus -[4763.50 --> 4764.50] Would -[4764.50 --> 4765.92] To save to life -[4765.92 --> 4767.26] To t e -[4767.26 --> 4767.88] tierra -[4767.88 --> 4769.34] Unless you -[4769.34 --> 4771.08] Would -[4771.08 --> 4772.64] 주는 -[4772.64 --> 4785.82] Behold, bless all, but find him guilty beers Le weakings and orphons and lindging of their fears -[4786.82 --> 4802.14] Before the cross 어떡hae States, Saint, he has knit it on his hands -[4802.64 --> 4812.64] Oh -[4832.64 --> 4836.82] His precious blood to clean -[4836.82 --> 4841.08] His blood atone for every breath -[4841.08 --> 4844.56] His blood atone for every breath -[4844.56 --> 4849.52] And wrinkles down a full-blown grave -[4849.52 --> 4854.32] Arise, arise -[4854.32 --> 4857.64] Arise, arise, my soul -[4857.64 --> 4861.64] Arise, arise -[4861.64 --> 4864.82] Arise, arise, my soul -[4864.82 --> 4867.64] Arise, you've loved your guilty -[4867.64 --> 4870.64] Please have died -[4870.64 --> 4875.78] Beed in whom's he bears -[4875.78 --> 4878.64] The secret of Calvary -[4878.64 --> 4883.00] Before it fash your prayers -[4883.00 --> 4886.64] He's strong and good for me -[4886.64 --> 4890.96] Forbidden, Lord, Lord, give me crown -[4890.96 --> 4893.96] Forgive them all, forgive me, crown -[4893.96 --> 4896.96] And that breath of sin -[4896.96 --> 4898.96] And die -[4898.96 --> 4903.96] Arise, arise -[4903.96 --> 4907.96] Arise, arise, arise, my soul -[4907.96 --> 4911.96] Arise, arise, arise, arise -[4911.96 --> 4913.96] Arise, arise, my soul -[4913.96 --> 4915.96] Arise, arise, my soul -[4915.96 --> 4919.96] Arise, take up your guilty fears and cries -[4919.96 --> 4925.96] My God is reconciled -[4925.96 --> 4926.96] His smiling voice -[4926.96 --> 4927.96] His smiling voice I hear -[4927.96 --> 4931.96] He owns me for His child -[4931.96 --> 4932.96] His child -[4932.96 --> 4937.96] I tend -[4937.96 --> 4939.96] In the small moon -[4939.96 --> 4943.96] Arise,kurод ene's, cream -[4943.96 --> 4944.96] Our God is Answer -[4944.96 --> 4945.96] His lips -[4945.96 --> 4946.96] The Israelis -[4946.96 --> 4948.96] season -[4948.96 --> 4950.96] breve -[4950.96 --> 4951.96] Age -[4951.96 --> 4968.66] Arise, arise, arise, arise, my soul, arise, arise, arise, arise, arise, arise, my soul, arise, you've got your guilty views and lies. -[4968.66 --> 4987.96] Arise, arise, arise, arise, arise, my soul, arise, arise, arise, arise, arise, arise, my soul, arise, you've got your guilty views and lies. -[4998.66 --> 5013.52] Arise, arise, arise,ектur, and mother. -[5013.66 --> 5025.20] Arise, arise, arise, arise, Paramountazo,phinx, and Limb生, Christ God red be your mercy on his hand. -[5025.20 --> 5055.18] Thank you. -[5055.20 --> 5085.18] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 29, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 29, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3557d79d9abcde74aa8f60052188ef2d0531d8f6..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 29, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,65 +0,0 @@ -• Discussion of a service or worship session -• A speaker talking about potatoes and their versatility -• Mention of using a potato to soothe burns and making deodorant from it -• The discovery that the first vegetable grown in space was a potato -• Reflection on how God can use ordinary, normal things for great purposes -• Introduction to a theme about God choosing a special person who was "super normal" -• Introduction to prayer and unity among believers -• Discussion of fallen humanity and reliance on God -• Prayer for world leaders and resolution of conflicts (Israel-Hamas, Russia-Ukraine) -• Prayer for church members with health issues and personal concerns -• Announcement about upcoming worship service at Sunridge Gardens -• Introduction to the sermon topic: what is fair? -• Western society values fairness, but differently on right and left -• Two types of fairness: equality (left) and proportionality (right) -• Romans 9 passage explores eternal fairness and election/predestination -• God's mercy is based on his will, not human desire or effort -• The concept of unfairness raised by doubters is addressed by Paul in the passage -• The limitations of human understanding and control -• God's sovereignty over humanity and creation -• Human tendency to blame God rather than themselves for their circumstances -• The importance of recognizing one's place as a created being -• The concept of God's justice and fairness in relation to human morality and behavior -• The West's emphasis on defining reality, morality, and righteousness independently of God -• The limitations of humanity's ability to define what is good or bad without God -• The need for reliance on God's definition of reality and morality -• God's sovereignty, mercy, and power in salvation and redemption -• The doctrine of election and reprobation, as taught in the Canons of Dort -• God's mercy vs. human desire: why some receive faith while others do not -• Pharaoh's hardened heart and its purpose for displaying God's power and glorifying His name -• God's plan to save His people through Christ and offer redemption to all nations -• The passage in Romans 9 highlighting the unfairness of God choosing to save anyone, but showing the depth of God's love and mercy -• The nature of sin and its depth -• God's mercy and sovereignty -• The role of God's intervention in salvation -• The concept of grace and forgiveness through Jesus Christ -• The relationship between sin, death, and God's justice -• The importance of trusting God with His answers and plans -• God's kingdom was established by His choice, not by birth -• Being a chosen people is central to one's identity and faith -• Scripture repeatedly emphasizes that God chooses His people (over 100 references) -• Belonging to God is fundamental to one's comfort and security in life and death -• The nature of identity and how it is given by God -• The relationship between faith and seeing God for who He is -• The concept of belonging to God through His kingdom -• The fairness of Jesus' death and sacrifice on behalf of humanity -• The role of unconditional love in God's decision-making -• The concept of God's sovereignty and choice in salvation -• The responsibility that comes with being chosen by God -• The response to being chosen: gather, grow, and go -• Finding hope and trust in the answers we can't comprehend -• Prayer for guidance and understanding in difficult realities -• Acknowledging God's sovereignty over all creation -• Defining love, trust, truth, and justice according to God's design -• Expressing gratitude for being called by God -• Praying for those who have not yet accepted God's call -• Asking forgiveness for sins and seeking to step forward in truth -• Praising God's mercy and redemption through Jesus Christ -• Invitation for prayer from the congregation -• Attributes of God: holy, mighty, worthy, great -• Commitment to follow and worship God -• Recognition of God as Lord and King -• Praise and adoration of God's glory -• Living life in devotion to God as Prince of Peace -• Repetition of phrases such as "I will" and "you are worthy" -• Closing with repeated expressions of gratitude \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 29, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 29, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b77ee78b5a87e10a27b3cc2ee678e01d6056d2eb..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 29, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,962 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[389.98 --> 419.96] Thank you. -[419.98 --> 449.96] Thank you. -[449.98 --> 479.96] Thank you. -[479.98 --> 509.96] Thank you. -[509.98 --> 539.96] Thank you. -[539.98 --> 569.96] Thank you. -[569.96 --> 599.94] Thank you. -[599.96 --> 629.94] Thank you. -[629.96 --> 659.94] Good morning. -[659.94 --> 689.92] Thank you. -[689.94 --> 719.92] Join us in worship. -[719.94 --> 749.92] Thank you. -[749.94 --> 779.92] Thank you. -[779.94 --> 809.92] Thank you. -[809.92 --> 839.90] Thank you. -[839.90 --> 869.88] Thank you. -[869.88 --> 899.86] Thank you. -[899.86 --> 929.84] Thank you. -[929.86 --> 959.84] Thank you. -[959.86 --> 989.84] Thank you. -[989.84 --> 1019.82] Thank you. -[1019.84 --> 1049.82] Thank you. -[1049.84 --> 1079.82] We proclaim. -[1079.84 --> 1109.82] Thank you. -[1109.82 --> 1139.80] Thank you. -[1139.82 --> 1169.80] God, we look to the world. -[1169.80 --> 1199.78] Thank you. -[1199.78 --> 1229.76] Thank you. -[1229.76 --> 1259.76] Thank you. -[1259.76 --> 1289.74] Thank you. -[1289.76 --> 1319.74] Thank you. -[1319.74 --> 1349.74] God, -[1349.74 --> 1379.72] Amen. -[1379.72 --> 1409.70] Thank you. -[1409.72 --> 1439.70] Thank you. -[1439.72 --> 1469.70] Thank you. -[1469.70 --> 1499.68] Thank you. -[1499.68 --> 1529.66] Thank you. -[1529.66 --> 1559.64] Thank you. -[1559.66 --> 1589.64] Christ, Lord, have mercy. -[1589.66 --> 1619.64] Thank you. -[1619.64 --> 1649.62] Thank you. -[1649.64 --> 1679.62] Thank you. -[1679.64 --> 1709.62] Thank you. -[1709.64 --> 1739.62] Thank you. -[1739.62 --> 1769.60] Thank you. -[1769.62 --> 1799.60] Thank you. -[1799.62 --> 1829.60] Thank you. -[1829.62 --> 1859.60] Thank you. -[1859.62 --> 1889.60] Thank you. -[1889.62 --> 1919.60] Good morning. -[1919.60 --> 1949.60] Thank you. -[1949.60 --> 1979.60] Thank you. -[1979.60 --> 2009.60] Thank you. -[2009.60 --> 2039.58] Thank you. -[2039.58 --> 2069.58] Thank you. -[2069.58 --> 2099.56] Thank you. -[2099.58 --> 2129.56] I called, I called, -[2129.56 --> 2159.54] Thank you. -[2159.54 --> 2189.52] Thank you. -[2189.54 --> 2219.52] Thank you. -[2219.54 --> 2249.54] Thank you. -[2249.54 --> 2279.52] Thank you. -[2279.54 --> 2309.54] Thank you. -[2309.54 --> 2339.52] Thank you. -[2339.54 --> 2369.52] Thank you. -[2369.54 --> 2399.52] Thank you. -[2399.54 --> 2429.52] Do a blessing. -[2429.52 --> 2459.52] I have a little something to do, -[2459.52 --> 2489.50] 피� those, he'll, -[2489.50 --> 2493.94] Rough crowd? No, just two kids like potato chips. What else, you guys, what else can you make with -[2493.94 --> 2503.44] this? One of my wife's favorite things is mashed potatoes. Oh, your mom makes that. Look at this. -[2503.50 --> 2511.92] I have this book that I brought from home. 500 potato recipes. 500 ways. We only named three. -[2512.88 --> 2517.08] There's 500 ways you can make a potato. Scallop potatoes, that's another good one. -[2517.08 --> 2522.42] You know what else is crazy about potatoes? I looked up a few things. Hey guys, you want to paint it? -[2524.80 --> 2529.22] There's other crazy things I've done with potatoes over the years. Did you know you can use a potato -[2529.22 --> 2535.76] to soothe a burn? If you have an owie on, you can use it to soothe that. I even looked up a recipe, -[2535.94 --> 2543.60] you can make deodorant out of potatoes. Right? I mean, maybe it's better smelling than some things. -[2543.60 --> 2548.52] I even looked up, there was, what else did I find on the internet? All kinds of crazy stuff. -[2548.72 --> 2556.90] I learned that the potato was the very first vegetable people grew in space. Not this potato, but. -[2558.58 --> 2565.74] Right? Isn't that crazy? Who knew that? It's just a potato. It can be 500 recipes. It can grow in space. -[2565.74 --> 2574.20] It can do all these great things. Sometimes the most simple, normal things can be used for amazing -[2574.20 --> 2581.26] things. Sometimes the most unsuspecting, that's kind of a big word, God can use for great, great things. -[2581.34 --> 2586.34] So we're going to talk a little bit more about that today, how God chose a special person who was -[2586.34 --> 2592.68] super normal, but he wasn't normal because God used him for great things. Yeah? Okay, let's stand and we'll -[2592.68 --> 2596.00] do the blessing and then we'll talk some more about that at children's worship time. -[2598.22 --> 2602.24] Okay, we're going to raise our hands with the congregation. Ready? -[2602.24 --> 2606.52] The Lord be with you. And also with you. -[2606.60 --> 2608.10] Okay. Time. -[2622.68 --> 2637.72] Good morning. I'm Steve, an elder here. Pleased to lead me in prayer this morning. -[2640.54 --> 2646.28] Eternal God, we come before you again this Sunday morning as a group of believers united in you. -[2646.28 --> 2652.78] A group of people with a wide variety of emotions and feelings. Some of us come with joy, with reasons -[2652.78 --> 2659.48] to be thankful, some with a deep sense of contentment. Others have concerns and worries, are sad and are -[2659.48 --> 2665.08] weary, are burdened and frustrated. We are your people and we know that in the end we need to trust -[2665.08 --> 2671.60] that you'll make all things right. But Lord, we are also a fallen people who live in, are, and -[2671.60 --> 2676.32] influenced by the world around us. We live in a world that bombards us with many messages. -[2677.20 --> 2682.16] We are told to put on our head down and keep on working and if we just try hard enough, -[2683.36 --> 2689.40] we will, if we never give up, we keep fighting to strive to attain our goals. Eternal God, remind us -[2689.40 --> 2694.38] again this morning that the work has already been done on the cross, that you have paid the price for -[2694.38 --> 2699.24] us and that rather than striving, you call us to a life of submission, obedience, and trust. -[2699.24 --> 2705.72] Help us to let go of our many gods that we set up and worship in our lives and instead love you with -[2705.72 --> 2710.60] all our heart, with all our soul, with all our mind, with all our strength, and to love our neighbors -[2710.60 --> 2717.02] as ourselves. Loving God, we confess that at times we are selective in who we consider our neighbor. -[2717.54 --> 2723.26] We pick and choose who we feel most comfortable with. Help us to see the needs of all those around us -[2723.26 --> 2728.74] and to reach out with words and actions. Grant us the ability to heal rather than through wound. -[2729.24 --> 2735.08] To build up rather than tear down. To be quicker to listen than to speak and open our hands in -[2735.08 --> 2740.28] generosity rather than holding tight into the abundance we have. Forgive us our shortcomings. -[2741.56 --> 2747.32] Father, we pray for our world, our nation, our province, and our communities. We pray for an end of -[2747.32 --> 2754.20] the war in Israel, between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, and the resulting human tragedy. The scale of violence and -[2754.20 --> 2760.04] destruction is hard for us to comprehend. We pray for the resolution end of the ongoing war in Russia -[2760.04 --> 2766.28] with Ukraine. We pray for the many refugees who have been forced to leave their homes and countries -[2766.28 --> 2773.48] and start lives in new countries. And we bring all the leaders, those who govern before you. We pray that -[2773.48 --> 2779.32] you bless them and guide them as they work towards solutions that we face, or the many challenges that -[2779.32 --> 2786.36] we face in this world. We also continue to bring the concerns and joys of our church family before you. -[2787.00 --> 2792.52] We pray those in our church body who struggle with their health, both physical and mental. We pray for -[2792.52 --> 2798.44] strength and comfort for those who have lost family and friends. Lord, comfort them and all send a -[2798.44 --> 2804.84] message of a measure of your healing grace. We pray for Greta Kuypers and the rest of the family as -[2804.84 --> 2814.04] her mom is in palliative care. We pray for Tini Freen, mom of Brenda, Linda, and Jody, as Tini's cancer has -[2814.60 --> 2821.24] returned and she'll be starting chemotherapy this week. We pray for Rosita as she continues to struggle -[2821.24 --> 2828.84] with her with her health. We pray for comfort for the Kunst family as Margaret Kunst's dad, Ted Vanderhoek, has -[2828.84 --> 2834.68] passed away and they prepare for the funeral service this coming week. We are thankful -[2834.68 --> 2841.32] Cy Visser has come home after recently spending nine days in hospital. We pray for continuous strength and -[2841.32 --> 2848.76] healing for Cy. And we pray for Frank and Sylvia Welfing's daughter Kim and their husband Ryan and their -[2848.76 --> 2855.16] prematurely born son, Grayson. And we pray for all those who suffer in silence. We bring them a measure of -[2855.16 --> 2861.96] your healing power. Lord, help us to remember that you're always there for us, that you call us to follow your -[2861.96 --> 2870.68] teaching, to live in fellowship and communion with you and one another. And in all things, pray continually. Be with -[2870.68 --> 2876.76] Pastor Kevin as he leads us this morning. Lord, thank you for his willingness to share his gifts, talents, and insights -[2876.76 --> 2884.60] with us here at Emmanuel. And we ask you bless him and his message this morning. Hear our prayers, both spoken -[2884.60 --> 2897.16] and unspoken. We pray this all in your great and holy name. Amen. -[2897.16 --> 2912.18] Good morning, everyone. It's good to be here with you all. I was reminded right after I left at the -[2912.18 --> 2916.28] opening of the service that I forgot one announcement. And that is that this coming -[2916.28 --> 2921.24] Saturday, a group of people are going to be leading worship at Sunridge Gardens, just up the hill at a -[2921.24 --> 2926.92] complex where a few of our members live. And so they'll be leading worship there next week, Saturday, I believe at -[2926.92 --> 2933.58] 2 p.m. All are welcome to join them for that, too. So if you want to join a nice little worship service at Sunridge -[2933.58 --> 2941.08] Gardens, please remember that as well. Today, we're going to be looking at a fairly challenging topic in the world -[2941.08 --> 2949.08] today, and a passage of scripture that is equally as challenging. But let's be honest, what passage in this sermon series -[2949.08 --> 2956.38] throughout Romans has not been challenging, right? Here's the question of the day. What is fair? -[2957.70 --> 2963.36] What is fair? Now, this is a question that's been echoed throughout history, or at least recent history. -[2963.80 --> 2969.02] There's many good quotes throughout time about the concept of fairness, but one of my favorites -[2969.02 --> 2975.56] actually comes from the comic strip Calvin and Hobbes. Calvin says to his dad, -[2975.56 --> 2982.04] why can't I stay up late? You guys get to. It's not fair. To which his dad replies, the world isn't fair, -[2982.20 --> 2987.96] Calvin, which he then grumbles away, saying, I know, but why isn't ever unfair in my favor? -[2989.00 --> 2992.80] Good old Calvin and Hobbes, teaching philosophy to young kids for a long time. -[2994.04 --> 2999.20] See, everybody thinks of fairness in some shape or form. We think of fairness in the workplace. -[2999.20 --> 3005.52] We think of it in our families. We think of it in our athletics. We even think of it politically. -[3006.88 --> 3012.56] Jonathan Haidt, he's the author of a book called The Righteous Mind, Why Good People Are Divided by -[3012.56 --> 3017.42] Politics and Religion. He keenly highlights that in the Western society, whether you're on the right or -[3017.42 --> 3023.50] the left, you value fairness. It just looks differently depending on what side you find yourself on. He says, -[3023.50 --> 3030.66] everyone cares about fairness, but there are two major kinds. On the left, fairness often implies -[3030.66 --> 3036.24] equality, but on the right, it means proportionality. People should be rewarded in proportion to what they -[3036.24 --> 3042.36] contribute, even if that guarantees unequal outcomes. I'm not here to debate one side or the -[3042.36 --> 3051.54] other. Both have merits, both have faults, but the point is this. Both value fairness. -[3051.54 --> 3058.10] It's an underlying concept, no matter where you land on that spectrum. Our text today, Romans 9, -[3058.26 --> 3064.98] 14 to 29, it concerns itself with eternal fairness, and it's a passage that's caused many questions. -[3065.32 --> 3071.04] It's about election, predestination, and the connotations and realities of this concept -[3071.04 --> 3078.52] in our lives, and so let's open up our Bibles and see why. You've got your Bibles now. Please open it -[3078.52 --> 3083.38] up to Romans 9. You can also open up your Bible apps, of course. If you don't have a Bible with you, -[3083.42 --> 3087.50] I strongly encourage you, grab one from the back, because we are going to be looking at this passage -[3087.50 --> 3091.90] and going back to it over and over again, and the words aren't always going to be on the screen -[3091.90 --> 3099.16] behind me. But keep that Bible open. Follow along with me. This time it will be behind me. Romans 9, -[3099.16 --> 3100.82] 14 to 29 says this, -[3100.82 --> 3111.04] What then shall we say? Is God unjust? Not at all. For he says to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I -[3111.04 --> 3117.90] have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion. It does not therefore depend -[3117.90 --> 3126.30] on human desire or effort, but on God's mercy. For Scripture says to Pharaoh, I raised you up for this -[3126.30 --> 3131.76] very purpose, that I might display my power in you, and that my name might be proclaimed in all the -[3131.76 --> 3139.74] earth. Therefore, God has mercy on whom he wants to have mercy, and he hardens who he wants to harden. -[3141.54 --> 3146.06] One of you will say to me, Then why does God still blame us? For who is able to resist his will? -[3146.28 --> 3153.64] But who are you, a human being, to talk to God? Shall what is formed say to the one who formed it, -[3153.64 --> 3158.56] why did you make me like this? Does not the potter have the right to make out the same lump of clay, -[3159.02 --> 3165.02] some pottery for special purposes and some for common use? What if God, although choosing to -[3165.02 --> 3170.58] show his wrath and make his power known, bore with great patience the objects of his wrath, -[3171.30 --> 3178.28] prepared for destruction? What if he did this to make the riches of his glory known to the objects -[3178.28 --> 3185.92] of his mercy, whom he prepared in advance for glory? Even us, whom he also called, not only from the Jews, -[3186.04 --> 3192.72] but also from the Gentiles. As he says in Hosea, I will call them my people who are not my people. I will -[3192.72 --> 3197.96] call her my loved one who is not my loved one. And in the very place where it was said to them, -[3198.02 --> 3205.18] you are not my people, there they will be called children of the living God. Isaiah cries out concerning -[3205.18 --> 3211.18] Israel, though the number of the Israelites be like the sand by the sea, only the remnant will be saved, -[3211.74 --> 3219.40] for the Lord will carry out his sentence on earth with speed and finality. It is just as Isaiah said -[3219.40 --> 3225.18] previously, unless the Lord Almighty has left us descendants, who would have become, or we, sorry, -[3225.18 --> 3231.62] would have become like Sodom? We would have become like Gomorrah. The word of the Lord. -[3231.62 --> 3244.72] Now, this passage starts with the very question we've been looking at. Is God unjust? Unjust means -[3244.72 --> 3254.90] unfair. Just is fair. Fair is just. So, is God fair? Or rather, is God unfair? Is it fair that God saves -[3254.90 --> 3264.42] some, but not others? Worse, is it fair that God chooses to save some, but not others? Now, this is a -[3264.42 --> 3269.32] question that Paul anticipates his readers asking, and so he gets ahead of it, in fact, and he asks it -[3269.32 --> 3278.96] himself. He asks on behalf of the doubters, is God unfair? And his answer, perhaps somewhat uncomfortably, -[3278.96 --> 3285.86] is actually fairly clear. Listen to how Paul answers this question, straight from our text today, -[3286.16 --> 3294.50] verses 15 to 18. Is God unfair? Paul says, no, not at all. He then quotes Exodus 33, 19, and he says, -[3294.84 --> 3301.30] God will have mercy on whom he has mercy, and God will have compassion on whom he has compassion. -[3301.30 --> 3312.08] He continues, and he says, salvation does not depend on human desire or effort, but only on God's mercy. -[3313.32 --> 3318.70] And then he uses an example from the Old Testament, again from Exodus, and explains that God used Pharaoh -[3318.70 --> 3324.62] for this very purpose, that God might display his power in you, and that his name might be proclaimed -[3324.62 --> 3331.60] in all the earth. Paul then concludes this little chunk by simply stating that God has mercy on whom -[3331.60 --> 3340.02] he wants to have mercy, and he hardens whom he wants to harden. So what does all this mean? What does the -[3340.02 --> 3346.94] answer that Paul gives here in Romans 9 mean for us today? And how can we take comfort in this answer? -[3348.66 --> 3354.50] Today, my prayer is that we will come away with a clearer picture of this beautiful, yet perhaps -[3354.50 --> 3361.66] uncomfortable truth, that it is not unfair. It's a double negative, so hear and read that correctly. -[3362.42 --> 3370.82] It is not unfair that some, through God's sovereignty and mercy, are chosen by grace through Christ Jesus. -[3371.06 --> 3380.78] It is not unfair that some, through God's sovereignty and mercy, are chosen by grace through Christ Jesus. -[3380.78 --> 3388.24] And we're going to look at three ways that help frame this reality for us today, and hopefully that helps -[3388.24 --> 3396.10] shape this answer a little clearer by the end. The first is this. God is sovereign. -[3398.08 --> 3406.48] We are not. That means God sees all and has ultimate authority, power, and control over the created -[3406.48 --> 3415.68] universe. We do not. Not only do we not, we don't come close. We can't even control our toddlers, -[3416.22 --> 3425.04] or our finances, or our ankles when the pavement's slightly uneven. God is sovereign. We are not. -[3426.38 --> 3430.18] Verse 20 and 21 of our text, Paul gets very blunt with this reality. He says, -[3430.18 --> 3436.40] But who are you, a human being, to talk back to God? Shall what is formed say to the one who formed it, -[3436.52 --> 3442.18] why did you make me like this? Does not the potter have the right to make out the same lump of clay, -[3442.50 --> 3449.92] some pottery for special purposes, and some for common use? John Calvin, he's equally as blunt about -[3449.92 --> 3458.74] this. He says, monstrous, surely, is the madness of the human mind that it is more disposed to charge -[3458.74 --> 3467.70] God with unrighteousness than to blame itself for blindness. Or to maybe 2023, that quote up a bit. -[3468.32 --> 3475.80] It's outrageously insane that we think it makes more sense to blame God with being unfair than to blame -[3475.80 --> 3486.48] ourselves for being so blind to sin. God is God. We are not. God is immortal. We all die. God is just. -[3486.48 --> 3494.40] We are broken. God is love. We are selfish. God is almighty. We are weak. God is creator. -[3495.44 --> 3505.30] We are created. God is the potter. We are the clay. God is God. We are not. -[3507.00 --> 3512.68] This is such an important reality for us to wrap our heads around when we engage this discussion. -[3512.68 --> 3520.50] And even if it's impossible to actually fully comprehend it, the opposite of doing so, choosing -[3520.50 --> 3527.10] to ignore it or to minimize it or to forget that God is sovereign altogether is madness. -[3527.10 --> 3537.56] When we resist God as God, when we choose to minimize that reality, when we rebel against his godness, -[3538.06 --> 3543.38] we make the exact same mistake that Adam and Eve made in the garden all over again. -[3544.48 --> 3550.34] We are but creatures God created. And unless we see ourselves in that light, -[3550.34 --> 3559.16] we elevate ourselves into these little deities and we seek the knowledge of good and evil instead of the truth -[3559.16 --> 3572.80] that God is God. But still, we dare to ask, is God just? Is God unfair? -[3572.80 --> 3588.90] God created everything. He created reality. That means that God gets to define reality. -[3590.88 --> 3598.42] God gets to define what reality is. Now, this brushes up against our worldview here in the West -[3598.42 --> 3604.20] because we want to define reality. We want to define what morality is. We want to define what -[3604.20 --> 3610.72] righteousness is. We want equality or proportionality. We want equal outcomes or equal opportunities. -[3610.90 --> 3618.02] But to what end? And for who? See, our world is pushing us to move towards a collective greater good. -[3618.58 --> 3622.70] And that's what secular humanism sort of is. Always striving to be better than before. -[3623.16 --> 3627.16] Better today than you were yesterday. And that sounds good and maybe even is good. -[3627.16 --> 3634.84] But who defines what is better? Better from what? Or to where? Or to what end? Or for what people? -[3635.66 --> 3643.56] Or through what lens? We're told to make this world a better place, but beyond the algorithms that -[3643.56 --> 3651.96] control what you see and hear online, who chooses what is good? And how do they decide that? -[3651.96 --> 3660.40] We can't put our hope in humanity's concept of good or bad because all of humanity falls short of the -[3660.40 --> 3668.56] righteousness of God. In a world that is totally depraved, looking within ourselves or our systems or even -[3668.56 --> 3673.58] other people for what is good will always come up short. It is doomed to fail. -[3673.58 --> 3684.02] Apart from God, questions of morality, questions of justice, questions of fairness or righteousness, -[3684.20 --> 3692.24] they all fall apart. We cannot ask these questions apart from God because God created reality and -[3692.24 --> 3702.86] therefore God defines reality. God defines morality. And that is glorious. That is glorious. -[3702.86 --> 3710.42] The glorious truth is we are not gods and the future does not depend or lie in our incapable hands. -[3710.72 --> 3717.96] What we do will not affect the ultimate eternal outcome of Christ's second coming where he will fully -[3717.96 --> 3725.22] redeem the universe and usher in the new heaven and the new earth for all of time. Only God created the -[3725.22 --> 3735.78] world and when we sinned we broke it. Only he defines and fulfills how to save it. Only he could come into this -[3735.78 --> 3742.60] world both fully God and fully man and live the life we should have lived. Only he could have died the death -[3742.60 --> 3748.60] that we all deserve to die in order to save us. Not because we deserve it but because he is merciful. -[3748.60 --> 3757.08] Only he could raise from the dead again because only he has the power over life and death. And only he -[3757.08 --> 3763.84] could offer us that grace. Offer us the grace that we get because of his life, death, and resurrection. -[3763.84 --> 3779.14] God is love. And so he defines what love is. God is truth. And so he defines what ultimate truth is. -[3780.76 --> 3790.38] God is just. Which means that this question of whether God is fair or not is absurd because God defines -[3790.38 --> 3797.68] what is fair. So the big question for us and it's a question we're going to ask several times today is -[3797.68 --> 3810.08] this. Can you trust him with his definition of fair? So first, God is sovereign. Second, God is merciful. -[3811.44 --> 3818.68] Now Paul frames this whole conversation, this whole text today with God's mercy. Right out of the gate, -[3818.68 --> 3825.14] verse 15, Paul quotes Exodus and says that God will show mercy and compassion on whomever he chooses. -[3825.94 --> 3834.46] This whole text today, which is so often viewed with judgment or ridicule, it's misunderstood -[3834.46 --> 3840.48] primarily because we don't frame it with the same lens that Paul does here. -[3840.48 --> 3851.02] mercy reigns and God does all things, even hardening some people's hearts to show his patience and his -[3851.02 --> 3861.28] mercy. Read verse 16 with me again. It does not therefore depend on human desire or effort, but God's -[3861.28 --> 3868.08] mercy. So again, Paul is pointing out that all of this, salvation, justice, mercy, it's up to God -[3868.08 --> 3875.14] and it's up to his choosing, not our longings, not our longings, not our efforts, not anything we do -[3875.14 --> 3883.20] or wish for or perhaps, and I think for some of us this is the kicker, not even what we desire to be true. -[3884.96 --> 3891.88] It is not up to human desire or effort, but only on God's mercy. -[3891.88 --> 3898.88] The canons of Dort, it's one of those confessions that our church and denomination use to help -[3898.88 --> 3905.04] summarize scripture and sort of aid us in understanding theology. It has this to say, -[3905.34 --> 3908.80] article 6 of part 1 says this, it's a bit of a chunk, so follow along here. -[3909.36 --> 3914.78] The fact that some receive from God the gift of faith within time and that others do not -[3914.78 --> 3921.64] stems from his eternal decree, for all his works are known to God from eternity. Acts 15, 18 and -[3921.64 --> 3926.88] Ephesians 1, 11 say that. In accordance with this decree, God graciously softens the hearts, -[3926.88 --> 3934.82] however hard, of the elect or those he chooses and inclines them to believe. But by a just judgment, -[3934.96 --> 3941.16] God leaves in their wickedness and hardness of heart those who have not been chosen. And this is -[3941.16 --> 3950.20] especially, and in this especially, is disclosed to us God's act, unfathomable, as merciful as it is just, -[3950.92 --> 3958.40] of distinguishing people equally lost. This is the well-known decree of election and reprobation -[3958.40 --> 3966.98] revealed in God's word. Again, God defines reality. God defines justice. And so even if our brains can't -[3966.98 --> 3975.82] grasp this, God in his mercy both hardens hearts and softens them. Paul uses the story of Pharaoh to -[3975.82 --> 3981.16] highlight this. In the next verse, verse 17, it says this, for scripture says to Pharaoh, I raised you -[3981.16 --> 3987.64] up for this very purpose, that I might display my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in -[3987.64 --> 3995.10] all the earth. This is a question that gets asked by all ages. I've been asked this question by parents, -[3995.10 --> 4001.16] by youth, even by my own kids in my time here. The question, why did God harden Pharaoh's heart? -[4001.64 --> 4008.56] Why didn't God just soften Pharaoh's heart? And the answer scripture gives us is that Pharaoh's heart -[4008.56 --> 4014.70] needed to be hardened so that God could do two things. One, display his power, and two, and perhaps -[4014.70 --> 4024.04] more importantly, have his name glorified in all the earth. God hardened Pharaoh's heart so that he, -[4024.04 --> 4032.04] God, could save the people whom God had chosen. His people survived the exodus, escaped slavery and -[4032.04 --> 4038.54] genocide from the Egyptians, and grew. The family line continued from Abraham to David and eventually -[4038.54 --> 4048.06] came to Christ, who saved all nations. Now, maybe we don't understand all of the whys and the hows, -[4048.06 --> 4054.84] but scripture tells us that God hardened Pharaoh's hearts so that his people, the royal Davidic line, -[4055.16 --> 4060.74] could survive all the way to Christ, and his redemption plan could end in Christ's life, -[4061.06 --> 4070.00] death, and resurrection, offering grace for all nations. God's plan ends for all people -[4070.00 --> 4079.04] so his name could be proclaimed by all people over all the earth. This passage that we read today, -[4079.14 --> 4085.36] this Romans 9 passage, is not meant for us to compare God's wrath against God's grace and pit -[4085.36 --> 4091.88] them against one another. This is a passage, and in fact, the whole narrative of scripture is a testament -[4091.88 --> 4101.24] to one thing only, the grace and mercy found in Jesus. Grace is held high here. Mercy is the focal -[4101.24 --> 4105.70] point throughout this whole book, this whole book of Romans, and if you've been following along in this -[4105.70 --> 4113.32] servant series, I pray that you've seen this. Romans has pointed emphatically to the fact that it is all -[4113.32 --> 4120.02] about grace. In this letter so far, you can see this behind me, Paul highlights that grace comes -[4120.02 --> 4128.20] to those who don't deserve it. That grace is more abundant than sin. That grace breaks the power of -[4128.20 --> 4135.64] sin and death. That grace is unbeatable. Nothing can defeat God's grace. That grace is undeserved by those -[4135.64 --> 4144.54] who receive it. That is our text today. This is not a passage where we're meant to get stuck in asking if -[4144.54 --> 4155.96] God is fair or not. This is a passage meant to highlight how unbelievably unfair it is that God chooses to save -[4155.96 --> 4166.36] anyone. This passage, once again, is meant to show us how high and deep and wide and far the love of God is -[4166.36 --> 4172.78] and how merciful His actions are to those whom He calls His children. -[4178.66 --> 4181.16] Some want God just to save everyone. -[4183.30 --> 4186.64] They think maybe that would be the most fair. -[4188.26 --> 4194.54] But sin needs justice. It's not fair if people do terrible things and are not held responsible for -[4194.54 --> 4201.04] them. Our society actually gets this. It's a place where cancel culture reigns right now. -[4202.06 --> 4206.16] To a fault, we understand that bad actions deserve consequences. -[4207.36 --> 4210.16] If God just saves everyone, He is not just. -[4212.46 --> 4220.08] Or, people want God to save everyone who chooses Him. At least everyone's got a shot. -[4220.08 --> 4227.02] But the problem is, no one would choose God without His intervention. -[4230.42 --> 4236.50] I'll give you an example. I think most of us are self-aware enough to think of that sin in our hearts -[4236.50 --> 4242.74] right now that we keep choosing over and over. I think most of us are self-aware enough to think -[4242.74 --> 4247.90] of that sin in our lives that we just can't seem to shake. No matter how hard we choose to, -[4247.90 --> 4259.46] we still choose it. Maybe it's pride. Maybe it's pornography. Maybe it's gossip. Maybe it's gluttony. -[4260.08 --> 4266.58] Maybe it's the pursuit of wealth or the pursuit of power or the pursuit of status. Maybe it's -[4266.58 --> 4274.44] envy. Maybe it's apathy. But many of you are self-aware enough to know that there is sin in your life -[4274.44 --> 4277.54] that you continuously choose over God. -[4281.18 --> 4282.94] Many of you are self-aware enough -[4282.94 --> 4284.76] that that sin -[4284.76 --> 4288.02] has either only been overcome by God -[4288.02 --> 4290.54] or will only be overcome -[4290.54 --> 4292.04] by God's intervention. -[4293.62 --> 4296.38] It will not be because you choose to get over it. -[4299.04 --> 4300.84] Many of you know that truth already. -[4300.84 --> 4302.76] And to those of you who don't, -[4303.82 --> 4305.98] maybe pride's rooted a little deeper than we thought. -[4310.18 --> 4316.18] Knowing there are sins out there that you keep choosing over God is why God simply can't show mercy -[4316.18 --> 4317.70] to those who choose Him. -[4318.54 --> 4320.86] Because no one would ever choose Him. -[4322.00 --> 4324.82] No one would ever choose Him first without His intervention, -[4325.26 --> 4327.06] without God coming to you first. -[4327.06 --> 4331.04] Our world is too depraved. -[4332.12 --> 4333.34] Sin runs too deep. -[4333.98 --> 4335.10] Which is why -[4335.10 --> 4337.40] the clean slate -[4337.40 --> 4339.30] of grace and mercy -[4339.30 --> 4341.42] granted to us by God, -[4341.56 --> 4342.34] our Father, -[4342.50 --> 4343.82] through Jesus Christ -[4343.82 --> 4344.88] in His life, -[4345.22 --> 4345.44] death, -[4345.60 --> 4346.36] and resurrection -[4346.36 --> 4348.52] is so unbelievably wonderful -[4348.52 --> 4350.30] because it crushes -[4350.30 --> 4351.58] that sin. -[4352.30 --> 4353.42] It crushes -[4353.42 --> 4354.96] that sin -[4354.96 --> 4356.96] that so easily entangles. -[4357.88 --> 4358.90] Those sins -[4358.90 --> 4360.08] that you just thought of -[4360.08 --> 4361.38] are wiped away -[4361.38 --> 4363.62] due to the mercy -[4363.62 --> 4364.62] and love -[4364.62 --> 4365.48] and grace -[4365.48 --> 4367.84] of Jesus' gospel truth. -[4367.96 --> 4368.94] In order for people -[4368.94 --> 4370.38] to get free from sin, -[4371.14 --> 4372.40] God must choose -[4372.40 --> 4373.56] to grant them mercy. -[4375.04 --> 4376.20] But in order -[4376.20 --> 4378.22] for the wages of sin -[4378.22 --> 4379.76] to be death, -[4380.60 --> 4382.22] God's justice against sin -[4382.22 --> 4383.20] must also prevail. -[4383.20 --> 4387.32] God does what He does -[4387.32 --> 4388.28] for the good -[4388.28 --> 4389.44] of His creation -[4389.44 --> 4390.70] and its final healing -[4390.70 --> 4391.68] and redemption. -[4392.22 --> 4393.08] He sees all -[4393.08 --> 4393.92] and in His sovereignty -[4393.92 --> 4395.56] has shown His mercy. -[4396.82 --> 4398.14] To question God -[4398.14 --> 4398.88] and His election, -[4399.04 --> 4399.16] though, -[4399.22 --> 4400.18] is to question -[4400.18 --> 4402.10] that exact redemption plan -[4402.10 --> 4403.02] that He has laid out. -[4404.02 --> 4404.86] So please, -[4404.98 --> 4406.28] I am not telling you -[4406.28 --> 4407.58] to stop wrestling with this. -[4407.58 --> 4409.52] I am not telling you -[4409.52 --> 4410.74] to stop asking questions -[4410.74 --> 4411.36] about this. -[4411.90 --> 4412.34] Please, -[4412.50 --> 4413.70] ask your questions. -[4414.40 --> 4415.30] Wrestle with this. -[4415.70 --> 4417.36] Engage this conversation. -[4417.90 --> 4418.78] But do so -[4418.78 --> 4419.70] with the framework -[4419.70 --> 4420.52] that in order -[4420.52 --> 4421.52] for God -[4421.52 --> 4422.42] to be God, -[4423.50 --> 4424.98] He's going to have answers -[4424.98 --> 4425.78] that are beyond -[4425.78 --> 4426.94] our understanding -[4426.94 --> 4427.78] of this eternity. -[4428.94 --> 4429.54] And so again, -[4429.90 --> 4430.40] our question -[4430.40 --> 4431.38] coming out of this -[4431.38 --> 4433.56] is can you trust Him -[4433.56 --> 4435.56] with those answers? -[4438.56 --> 4439.52] So number one, -[4439.62 --> 4440.40] God is sovereign. -[4440.62 --> 4441.04] Number two, -[4441.14 --> 4441.90] God is merciful. -[4442.36 --> 4443.04] And finally, -[4443.24 --> 4443.66] thirdly, -[4444.12 --> 4444.82] something we've actually -[4444.82 --> 4445.24] been covering -[4445.24 --> 4445.84] this whole time -[4445.84 --> 4446.28] is this. -[4446.88 --> 4447.70] God's kingdom -[4447.70 --> 4449.58] is not defined -[4449.58 --> 4450.14] by you, -[4451.08 --> 4452.42] but by God. -[4454.30 --> 4455.36] From way back -[4455.36 --> 4455.90] in Genesis, -[4456.12 --> 4456.74] God's promise -[4456.74 --> 4457.46] was always -[4457.46 --> 4458.32] that there would be -[4458.32 --> 4459.08] a people -[4459.08 --> 4460.18] specially chosen -[4460.18 --> 4461.04] by God. -[4462.00 --> 4462.62] Pastor Chris -[4462.62 --> 4463.58] read this last week -[4463.58 --> 4464.08] in his sermon, -[4464.20 --> 4464.82] Romans 9, -[4464.88 --> 4465.30] verse 8, -[4465.44 --> 4466.28] where it says this, -[4467.22 --> 4467.98] in other words, -[4468.52 --> 4469.58] it is not the children -[4469.58 --> 4470.54] by physical descent -[4470.54 --> 4471.50] who are God's children, -[4471.80 --> 4472.86] but it is the children -[4472.86 --> 4473.72] of the promise -[4473.72 --> 4474.40] who are regarded -[4474.40 --> 4475.72] as Abraham's offspring. -[4477.78 --> 4478.50] God's kingdom -[4478.50 --> 4479.24] was not designed -[4479.24 --> 4479.88] by birth, -[4480.36 --> 4481.16] but by God. -[4482.08 --> 4482.86] This was part -[4482.86 --> 4483.52] of God's covenant -[4483.52 --> 4484.02] to Abraham, -[4484.16 --> 4485.44] part of His redemption plan -[4485.44 --> 4487.22] to redeem the world. -[4488.00 --> 4488.34] However, -[4488.46 --> 4489.46] it's particularly -[4489.46 --> 4490.50] important for us -[4490.50 --> 4490.96] to see that -[4490.96 --> 4491.84] whether we look back -[4491.84 --> 4492.42] to Genesis -[4492.42 --> 4493.56] and Exodus -[4493.56 --> 4494.80] and the Old Testament -[4494.80 --> 4495.56] within the nation -[4495.56 --> 4496.14] of Israel, -[4496.34 --> 4497.98] or we skip ahead here -[4497.98 --> 4498.86] to Romans, -[4498.98 --> 4499.72] to the New Testament, -[4499.82 --> 4500.94] after Jesus' life, -[4501.30 --> 4502.10] death, and resurrection, -[4502.58 --> 4504.22] apart from God choosing, -[4505.42 --> 4505.84] there would be -[4505.84 --> 4506.74] no chosen people. -[4508.48 --> 4510.08] There can't be chosen people -[4510.08 --> 4511.34] if God doesn't choose. -[4512.92 --> 4513.86] Now, this is huge -[4513.86 --> 4516.02] because being a chosen people, -[4516.14 --> 4517.90] being chosen by God, -[4517.90 --> 4519.28] gets to the heart -[4519.28 --> 4520.80] of our identities. -[4521.82 --> 4522.46] God tells us -[4522.46 --> 4524.24] over and over again -[4524.24 --> 4525.00] in His Word -[4525.00 --> 4525.94] that He has chosen -[4525.94 --> 4526.78] His people. -[4526.88 --> 4527.98] It is throughout Scripture. -[4528.80 --> 4529.32] We see that -[4529.32 --> 4530.90] in Deuteronomy 14.2. -[4532.26 --> 4534.34] We see it in Psalm 33.12. -[4534.92 --> 4535.80] There's a list here. -[4536.08 --> 4536.58] I'm not going to read -[4536.58 --> 4536.90] all of them, -[4537.00 --> 4538.38] but Deuteronomy 14.2. -[4538.62 --> 4539.78] The Lord has chosen you -[4539.78 --> 4540.38] to be a people -[4540.38 --> 4541.92] for His treasured possession. -[4542.32 --> 4543.24] Psalm 33.12. -[4543.32 --> 4544.24] The people whom -[4544.24 --> 4545.08] He has chosen -[4545.08 --> 4546.28] as His heritage. -[4546.28 --> 4547.76] Isaiah 43.20. -[4548.18 --> 4548.70] To give drink -[4548.70 --> 4550.42] to my chosen people. -[4551.10 --> 4552.12] John 15.16. -[4552.56 --> 4553.84] I chose you -[4553.84 --> 4555.02] and appointed you. -[4555.34 --> 4556.22] Ephesians 1.4. -[4556.50 --> 4557.96] He chose us in Him -[4557.96 --> 4558.98] before the foundation -[4558.98 --> 4559.48] of the world. -[4559.78 --> 4560.72] 1 Peter 2.9. -[4561.12 --> 4563.24] But you are a chosen race, -[4563.34 --> 4565.20] a people for His own possession. -[4565.82 --> 4566.68] And according to this -[4566.68 --> 4567.78] fun little Greek tool -[4567.78 --> 4568.52] that I get to use -[4568.52 --> 4569.48] for school right now, -[4569.68 --> 4570.50] those are six -[4570.50 --> 4573.26] of over 107 references. -[4573.26 --> 4577.28] that Scripture speaks -[4577.28 --> 4578.72] of the people God chooses. -[4580.04 --> 4582.86] We belong to God. -[4583.88 --> 4585.34] This is foundational -[4585.34 --> 4586.36] to our identity. -[4587.74 --> 4589.14] Our only comfort -[4589.14 --> 4591.12] in life and in death -[4591.12 --> 4593.30] is that we are not our own, -[4593.42 --> 4595.34] but we belong body and soul -[4595.34 --> 4596.78] in life and in death -[4596.78 --> 4598.60] to our faithful Savior, -[4598.78 --> 4599.54] Jesus Christ. -[4599.54 --> 4600.92] He has fully paid -[4600.92 --> 4602.12] for all our sins -[4602.12 --> 4603.34] with His precious blood -[4603.34 --> 4605.26] and He has set us free -[4605.26 --> 4606.04] from the tyranny -[4606.04 --> 4606.66] of the devil. -[4607.02 --> 4608.46] He also watches over us -[4608.46 --> 4609.26] in such a way -[4609.26 --> 4610.86] that not a hair -[4610.86 --> 4612.24] can fall from our heads -[4612.24 --> 4614.06] without the will -[4614.06 --> 4615.30] of our Father -[4615.30 --> 4616.20] in heaven. -[4618.08 --> 4619.26] Our only comfort -[4619.26 --> 4620.44] in this world -[4620.44 --> 4621.54] is that our identities -[4622.18 --> 4624.00] belong to God. -[4624.92 --> 4627.08] We are chosen by Him. -[4627.08 --> 4630.08] Our identities -[4630.08 --> 4631.68] are not earned. -[4632.74 --> 4633.94] They are not achieved. -[4634.82 --> 4635.98] They are not won. -[4636.40 --> 4637.38] They are not discovered. -[4637.90 --> 4638.46] Our identities -[4638.46 --> 4639.88] are given to us. -[4640.80 --> 4642.48] They are not found within. -[4643.14 --> 4644.44] They are found from Him. -[4645.08 --> 4646.40] We belong to God -[4646.40 --> 4647.56] fully known, -[4648.28 --> 4649.22] fully loved, -[4650.10 --> 4650.90] fully saved. -[4653.22 --> 4654.94] Our faith is given to us -[4654.94 --> 4656.06] once we see God -[4656.06 --> 4657.20] for who He is. -[4657.44 --> 4657.64] Sorry, -[4657.76 --> 4659.36] once faith is given to us, -[4660.12 --> 4661.12] once we see God -[4661.12 --> 4662.24] for who He really is, -[4662.54 --> 4663.48] full of grace, -[4663.86 --> 4664.74] full of mercy, -[4665.30 --> 4666.18] sovereignly reigning -[4666.18 --> 4667.22] over His creation, -[4667.62 --> 4668.32] moving towards -[4668.32 --> 4669.26] the eternal hope -[4669.26 --> 4670.56] found in His kingdom come -[4670.56 --> 4671.72] and His kingdom coming, -[4672.08 --> 4673.08] we can know -[4673.08 --> 4674.80] that we belong to Him. -[4676.16 --> 4676.80] And therefore, -[4677.04 --> 4678.06] as our text says, -[4678.70 --> 4679.44] make the riches -[4679.44 --> 4680.24] of His kingdom -[4680.24 --> 4682.02] known to those around us. -[4682.02 --> 4683.80] So once again, -[4684.58 --> 4686.04] can you trust -[4686.04 --> 4688.66] that you belong to Him? -[4691.92 --> 4693.84] It is not unfair -[4693.84 --> 4695.22] that some, -[4695.64 --> 4696.62] through God's sovereignty -[4696.62 --> 4697.26] and mercy, -[4697.76 --> 4699.50] are chosen by grace -[4699.50 --> 4701.06] through Christ Jesus. -[4704.06 --> 4704.76] You know, -[4704.78 --> 4706.10] it's not uncommon -[4706.10 --> 4708.30] for us to ask, -[4708.70 --> 4709.82] is it unfair -[4709.82 --> 4711.58] that God only chooses some? -[4711.58 --> 4712.18] I get it. -[4712.28 --> 4713.12] I wonder that myself, -[4713.20 --> 4713.64] to be honest. -[4715.08 --> 4716.24] But I think it's important -[4716.24 --> 4717.28] to spin this question -[4717.28 --> 4717.84] for a moment -[4717.84 --> 4719.40] and ask this one instead. -[4721.12 --> 4722.20] Is it fair -[4722.20 --> 4724.86] that Jesus had to die -[4724.86 --> 4725.46] for anyone? -[4727.06 --> 4728.10] Is it fair -[4728.10 --> 4729.60] that Jesus -[4729.60 --> 4731.02] had to come down -[4731.02 --> 4732.64] from the thrones of heaven, -[4733.60 --> 4735.58] put on this skin costume -[4735.58 --> 4736.80] that we call flesh, -[4737.98 --> 4739.58] dwell in this corrupt world -[4739.58 --> 4741.60] world that we've all cultivated, -[4742.48 --> 4744.34] commit no sins of His own, -[4744.78 --> 4745.94] but take on the sins -[4745.94 --> 4747.50] not just of a few people, -[4747.74 --> 4749.26] but of all of humanity -[4749.26 --> 4751.00] throughout all of history -[4751.00 --> 4752.36] onto His shoulders, -[4753.28 --> 4754.34] get whipped -[4754.34 --> 4755.84] and flogged -[4755.84 --> 4756.74] and beaten -[4756.74 --> 4757.84] and pierced -[4757.84 --> 4758.88] and spat on -[4758.88 --> 4759.66] and ridiculed -[4759.66 --> 4760.46] and mocked -[4760.46 --> 4761.28] and stabbed -[4761.28 --> 4762.56] and hung on a cross -[4762.56 --> 4763.40] to die -[4763.40 --> 4764.92] one of the most painful -[4764.92 --> 4766.90] and most public deaths -[4766.90 --> 4767.66] imaginable. -[4768.66 --> 4770.04] Is it fair -[4770.04 --> 4770.74] that Jesus -[4770.74 --> 4771.66] had to do -[4771.66 --> 4772.84] all of that -[4772.84 --> 4774.22] to save anyone? -[4775.96 --> 4777.18] Because He did. -[4778.32 --> 4779.48] He lived -[4779.48 --> 4780.46] that out. -[4782.34 --> 4783.50] And then -[4783.50 --> 4785.14] He miraculously -[4785.14 --> 4785.90] rose again -[4785.90 --> 4786.94] from the grave. -[4786.94 --> 4790.28] He didn't simply -[4790.28 --> 4791.10] do that. -[4791.44 --> 4792.18] He did it -[4792.18 --> 4792.66] out of His -[4792.66 --> 4794.10] unconditional love -[4794.10 --> 4795.52] for humanity -[4795.52 --> 4796.24] and the world -[4796.24 --> 4796.94] that He created. -[4797.06 --> 4798.40] He was not angry. -[4798.54 --> 4799.12] He was not bitter. -[4799.22 --> 4800.04] He was not resentful. -[4800.10 --> 4800.74] He was full -[4800.74 --> 4801.78] of love -[4801.78 --> 4802.80] and mercy. -[4806.36 --> 4807.36] One last question -[4807.36 --> 4808.82] before we conclude. -[4810.40 --> 4811.36] If election -[4811.36 --> 4812.68] is not up to us, -[4813.64 --> 4814.36] if God -[4814.36 --> 4815.52] chooses us, -[4815.58 --> 4816.58] not the other way around, -[4816.58 --> 4818.28] if choosing God -[4818.28 --> 4819.34] was God's doing -[4819.34 --> 4820.74] and not my responsibility, -[4821.70 --> 4823.08] then what is -[4823.08 --> 4823.86] my responsibility? -[4825.32 --> 4826.90] If God chooses us -[4826.90 --> 4828.26] and yet we are not robots, -[4829.36 --> 4831.70] what is our responsibility? -[4833.72 --> 4834.52] Pastor Chris -[4834.52 --> 4835.06] is going to talk -[4835.06 --> 4836.08] about that next week -[4836.08 --> 4836.58] as we look -[4836.58 --> 4837.10] at the end -[4837.10 --> 4838.12] of chapter 9 -[4838.12 --> 4839.02] and the beginning -[4839.02 --> 4840.24] of chapter 10. -[4843.34 --> 4844.12] Everyone loves -[4844.12 --> 4844.64] a cliffhanger. -[4844.64 --> 4846.76] But for now, -[4846.82 --> 4847.58] let's remember this. -[4848.98 --> 4850.92] It is not unfair -[4850.92 --> 4852.60] that some, -[4852.82 --> 4853.34] through God's -[4853.34 --> 4854.50] sovereignty and mercy, -[4854.96 --> 4856.62] are chosen by grace -[4856.62 --> 4858.26] through Christ Jesus. -[4859.52 --> 4860.44] And in light -[4860.44 --> 4861.30] of that reality, -[4861.70 --> 4862.20] the reality -[4862.20 --> 4862.90] which God, -[4863.14 --> 4864.02] our Creator, -[4864.18 --> 4865.02] has defined, -[4866.02 --> 4867.52] our response -[4867.52 --> 4868.42] should be -[4868.42 --> 4869.20] these three things. -[4869.20 --> 4870.58] one, -[4870.66 --> 4871.04] we are called -[4871.04 --> 4871.54] to gather, -[4872.20 --> 4873.76] to be with His people -[4873.76 --> 4875.18] and to worship Him. -[4875.74 --> 4876.08] Remember, -[4876.22 --> 4877.32] all good theology -[4877.32 --> 4878.42] leads to doxology. -[4878.58 --> 4879.28] All of this -[4879.28 --> 4880.24] leads to us -[4880.24 --> 4881.42] worshiping God. -[4881.50 --> 4882.18] Your identity -[4882.18 --> 4882.94] is in Him. -[4883.16 --> 4883.98] Your salvation -[4883.98 --> 4884.92] is in Him. -[4885.02 --> 4885.62] Your hope -[4885.62 --> 4886.72] is in Him. -[4887.64 --> 4888.54] Let us gather -[4888.54 --> 4889.94] and praise -[4889.94 --> 4891.00] our God. -[4891.88 --> 4892.28] Second, -[4892.38 --> 4892.66] we're called -[4892.66 --> 4893.10] to grow, -[4893.60 --> 4894.26] to ask -[4894.26 --> 4895.16] these questions -[4895.16 --> 4895.84] that are hard -[4895.84 --> 4897.04] and trust Him -[4897.04 --> 4897.94] with the answers -[4897.94 --> 4898.34] that maybe -[4898.34 --> 4899.32] we don't understand. -[4900.20 --> 4901.24] We can find -[4901.24 --> 4902.84] rest and solitude -[4902.84 --> 4904.10] in the answers -[4904.10 --> 4905.28] we can comprehend. -[4906.40 --> 4907.20] And I hope -[4907.20 --> 4907.86] that we can find -[4907.86 --> 4909.12] hope and trust -[4909.12 --> 4910.30] and rest -[4910.30 --> 4911.20] in the ones -[4911.20 --> 4912.12] that maybe we can't. -[4913.82 --> 4914.32] And finally, -[4914.46 --> 4914.74] thirdly, -[4914.78 --> 4915.22] we are called -[4915.22 --> 4915.62] to go, -[4916.24 --> 4917.72] to be present -[4917.72 --> 4918.40] in our community -[4918.40 --> 4919.14] and make -[4919.14 --> 4919.84] the riches -[4919.84 --> 4920.42] of His kingdom -[4920.42 --> 4921.08] known to those -[4921.08 --> 4921.70] around us -[4921.70 --> 4923.28] in order -[4923.28 --> 4924.18] that God -[4924.18 --> 4925.06] can work -[4925.06 --> 4925.68] through us -[4925.68 --> 4926.90] and plant -[4926.90 --> 4927.54] the gift -[4927.54 --> 4928.30] of faith -[4928.30 --> 4929.42] into others, -[4930.04 --> 4930.56] others -[4930.56 --> 4931.78] whom He has -[4931.78 --> 4932.74] already called -[4932.74 --> 4933.92] to be His people. -[4934.64 --> 4934.88] Amen. -[4935.12 --> 4935.56] Let me pray. -[4940.04 --> 4941.06] Father in heaven, -[4941.90 --> 4944.32] God, -[4944.40 --> 4945.24] there are realities -[4945.24 --> 4945.94] in this world -[4945.94 --> 4946.66] that we cannot -[4946.66 --> 4947.44] fully wrap -[4947.44 --> 4948.28] our minds around. -[4949.46 --> 4950.10] And God, -[4950.22 --> 4951.38] sometimes we look -[4951.38 --> 4952.48] at this world -[4952.48 --> 4953.30] and we do ask -[4953.30 --> 4953.74] ourselves, -[4953.92 --> 4954.72] is this fair? -[4954.72 --> 4956.58] is this just? -[4958.78 --> 4959.76] But God, -[4960.34 --> 4961.58] please instill -[4961.58 --> 4962.26] in our hearts -[4962.26 --> 4963.00] and our minds -[4963.00 --> 4964.52] that You are God. -[4964.84 --> 4966.14] You are sovereignly -[4966.14 --> 4966.84] reigning over -[4966.84 --> 4967.94] all Your creation -[4967.94 --> 4970.02] and that this reality -[4970.02 --> 4971.48] is defined by You, -[4971.94 --> 4972.80] that love -[4972.80 --> 4974.24] is defined by You, -[4974.30 --> 4974.96] that trust -[4974.96 --> 4975.66] is designed -[4975.66 --> 4976.34] by You, -[4976.40 --> 4976.98] that truth -[4976.98 --> 4977.68] is designed -[4977.68 --> 4978.22] by You, -[4978.94 --> 4980.26] and that justice -[4980.26 --> 4981.04] is designed -[4981.04 --> 4981.48] by You. -[4981.48 --> 4982.14] God, -[4982.20 --> 4983.18] may that imprint -[4983.18 --> 4984.18] upon our hearts -[4984.18 --> 4985.64] and may we know -[4985.64 --> 4986.32] without a shadow -[4986.32 --> 4986.76] of a doubt -[4986.76 --> 4988.44] that You are a God -[4988.44 --> 4989.58] of mercy -[4989.58 --> 4990.92] and a God -[4990.92 --> 4991.48] of grace. -[4992.76 --> 4993.20] Lord, -[4993.28 --> 4994.48] we are so -[4994.48 --> 4996.22] unbelievably grateful -[4996.22 --> 4996.76] that You have -[4996.76 --> 4997.96] called us Your own. -[4999.54 --> 5000.16] And Lord, -[5000.22 --> 5000.74] for those -[5000.74 --> 5002.34] whom You have not called, -[5002.60 --> 5003.64] whom we love dearly, -[5004.36 --> 5005.82] we pray that You will -[5005.82 --> 5006.84] plant that seed of faith -[5006.84 --> 5007.56] into their hearts. -[5008.06 --> 5009.00] May we be vessels -[5009.00 --> 5009.96] for that, -[5010.10 --> 5010.28] God. -[5011.38 --> 5012.62] May You reach out -[5012.62 --> 5013.10] to them. -[5015.44 --> 5016.06] And Lord, -[5016.14 --> 5016.82] may we know -[5016.82 --> 5019.14] that You -[5019.14 --> 5019.88] reign -[5019.88 --> 5020.78] on the throne. -[5024.82 --> 5025.26] God, -[5025.30 --> 5026.28] we continue to ask You -[5026.28 --> 5027.00] to forgive us -[5027.00 --> 5027.84] our sins -[5027.84 --> 5029.34] as we know You do. -[5029.92 --> 5030.88] And may we always -[5030.88 --> 5031.58] step forward -[5031.58 --> 5032.44] in that truth, -[5032.56 --> 5033.66] knowing that we are saved, -[5033.86 --> 5034.66] that we are forgiven, -[5034.98 --> 5036.18] and that we are called -[5036.18 --> 5037.22] to gather, -[5037.40 --> 5037.78] to grow, -[5037.78 --> 5038.36] and to go. -[5038.52 --> 5039.14] In Your name, -[5039.32 --> 5039.96] we pray this. -[5040.36 --> 5040.58] Amen. -[5046.40 --> 5047.04] Please rise -[5047.04 --> 5048.06] as we respond in song. -[5048.06 --> 5078.04] Thank you. -[5078.06 --> 5108.04] Thank you. -[5108.06 --> 5110.06] Thank you. -[5138.06 --> 5140.06] Thank you. -[5168.06 --> 5170.06] Praise the Lord. -[5172.06 --> 5176.06] His mercy is Lord. -[5178.06 --> 5182.06] Stronger than darkness, new every morn. -[5182.06 --> 5188.06] Our sins, they are many. His mercy is Lord. -[5188.06 --> 5196.30] What riches of kindness He lavished on us. -[5196.70 --> 5201.44] His blood was the payment, His life was the cost. -[5201.90 --> 5207.06] We stood with a debt we could never afford. -[5207.06 --> 5213.06] Our sins, they are many. His mercy is Lord. -[5215.06 --> 5219.06] Praise the Lord. -[5219.06 --> 5225.06] His mercy is Lord. -[5225.06 --> 5231.06] Stronger than darkness, new every morn. -[5231.06 --> 5235.06] Our sins, they are many. His mercy is Lord. -[5235.06 --> 5239.06] Praise the Lord. -[5239.06 --> 5243.06] His mercy is Lord. -[5243.06 --> 5251.06] Stronger than darkness, new every morn. -[5251.06 --> 5256.90] Our sins, they are many. His mercy is Lord. -[5256.90 --> 5264.90] Our sins, they are many. His mercy is Lord. -[5264.90 --> 5266.90] Amen. -[5266.90 --> 5267.90] Amen. -[5267.90 --> 5268.90] Amen. -[5268.90 --> 5270.90] If you have found yourself this morning in need of prayer, -[5270.90 --> 5272.90] there are going to be prayer people available, -[5272.90 --> 5274.90] both here at the front and also in the back. -[5274.90 --> 5278.90] They'll be wearing name tags with like yellow name tags on the front. -[5278.90 --> 5280.90] So please feel free to reach out to one of them for prayer. -[5280.90 --> 5282.90] Or honestly, turn to your neighbor and ask them to pray for you as well. -[5282.90 --> 5284.90] We are a praying church. -[5284.90 --> 5286.90] We can do that for one another. -[5286.90 --> 5291.90] Please hear God's parting blessing today from number six. -[5291.90 --> 5294.90] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[5294.90 --> 5298.90] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[5298.90 --> 5303.90] The Lord turn his face toward you and give you his peace. -[5303.90 --> 5306.90] And all God's people said, Amen. -[5316.90 --> 5326.90] you are holy -[5326.90 --> 5331.90] you are mighty -[5331.90 --> 5333.90] you are mighty -[5333.90 --> 5335.90] you are worthy -[5335.90 --> 5337.90] you are worthy -[5337.90 --> 5338.90] you are worthy -[5338.90 --> 5341.90] worthy of praise -[5341.90 --> 5342.90] you are great -[5342.90 --> 5344.90] I will follow -[5344.90 --> 5345.90] I will follow -[5345.90 --> 5346.90] I will follow -[5346.90 --> 5348.90] I will listen -[5348.90 --> 5349.90] I will listen -[5349.90 --> 5350.90] i will listen -[5350.90 --> 5352.90] I will love you -[5352.90 --> 5353.90] I will love you -[5353.90 --> 5354.90] you -[5354.90 --> 5356.90] I will all of my days -[5356.90 --> 5358.90] all of my days -[5358.90 --> 5361.90] you are guard, are Lord -[5361.90 --> 5362.90] you are King of you -[5362.90 --> 5365.90] you are glory -[5365.90 --> 5366.86] you are worthy -[5366.86 --> 5367.90] you are Lord of everything -[5367.90 --> 5368.86] you are worthy -[5368.86 --> 5369.90] You are worthy -[5369.90 --> 5379.50] after -[5379.50 --> 5386.54] and worship the king who is worthy and i will -[5394.54 --> 5404.54] you're my prince of peace and i will live my life for you -[5404.54 --> 5413.50] you are mighty -[5416.22 --> 5417.50] you are worthy -[5419.98 --> 5421.50] worthy of praise -[5424.70 --> 5427.50] i will follow -[5427.50 --> 5440.38] oh -[5440.38 --> 5448.36] I will sing and worship the great God, -[5448.48 --> 5452.54] Lord of every, and I will love you well. -[5452.90 --> 5458.38] For the great I am, I will bow down before me. -[5459.18 --> 5464.78] And I will sing and worship the King, -[5464.78 --> 5469.78] For the great I am, I will love you well. -[5469.78 --> 5476.78] For the great I am, I will bow down before me. -[5476.78 --> 5482.78] And you're my Prince of Peace, and I will live my life for you. -[5484.78 --> 5491.78] You're my Prince of Peace, and I will live my life for you. -[5494.78 --> 5524.78] And I will -[5524.78 --> 5554.76] Thank you. -[5554.78 --> 5584.76] Thank you. -[5584.78 --> 5614.76] Thank you. -[5614.78 --> 5644.76] Thank you. -[5644.78 --> 5674.76] Thank you. -[5674.78 --> 5681.78] Thank you. -[5681.78 --> 5682.10] Thank you. -[5682.10 --> 5689.10] Thank you. -[5689.10 --> 5691.10] Thank you. -[5691.10 --> 5698.10] Thank you. -[5698.10 --> 5700.10] Thank you. -[5700.10 --> 5702.10] Thank you. -[5702.10 --> 5706.10] Thank you. -[5706.10 --> 5713.10] Thank you. -[5713.10 --> 5715.10] Thank you. -[5715.10 --> 5717.10] Thank you. -[5717.10 --> 5719.10] Thank you. -[5736.10 --> 5737.10] Thank you. -[5766.10 --> 5767.10] Thank you. -[5796.10 --> 5797.10] Thank you. -[5826.10 --> 5827.10] Thank you. -[5856.10 --> 5857.10] Thank you. -[5886.10 --> 5887.10] Thank you. -[5916.10 --> 5917.10] Thank you. -[5946.10 --> 5947.10] Thank you. -[5976.10 --> 5977.10] Thank you. -[6006.10 --> 6007.10] Thank you. -[6036.10 --> 6037.10] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 3 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 3 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a0163d1393087bb3092616b513de61e1babde1c0..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 3 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,224 +0,0 @@ -• The importance of worshiping God as a church family -• Confession of sin and temptation, asking for God's presence in times of struggle -• Acknowledging God's love and faithfulness, even when understanding it is difficult -• Singing hymns of praise to God, including "One Thing Remains" -• Discussion of unwavering love and faithfulness from God -• Overcoming fear with God's love and protection -• Identity as a child of God, free from slavery to sin and fear -• Worship through music and scripture -• Tithes and offerings for church budget and Seeds of Hope Children's Ministry -• Mission work of Seeds of Hope Children's Ministry in providing care for children affected by HIV/AIDS -• Scripture reading from James 1:27 -• Welcoming new families to the church -• Acknowledging God's goodness and blessings -• Inviting members of the congregation to make a commitment to God and to the church -• Asking new members to affirm their faith and commitment -• Presenting the three questions: - - Do you believe in Jesus as your Savior and Lord? - - Do you believe the Bible is the word of God revealing his plan for redemption in Jesus Christ? - - Will you commit yourself to serve the Lord with us in this church? -• Invitation to join Langley Emmanuel church -• Promise of love, support, and welcome into the fellowship -• Children's blessing and morning announcements -• Test question about previous Sunday's Sunday school lesson -• Review of lessons taught in Sunday school -• Discussion about animals and lions -• Introduction to the next part of a story involving a crazy slithery creature in the Garden of Eden -• Reference to the snake from the biblical story of Adam and Eve -• Mention of a movie (Indiana Jones) with snake scenes that may have caused fear of snakes for some people -• Discussion about the children's blessing -• Transition to prayer, mentioning people affected by COVID-19 -• Link to the spa family got sorted out -• Confusion about connecting with the spa family was resolved -• Prayer for the spa family was offered -• Discussion on the abundance of life and its source -• Importance of knowing God's presence in one's life -• Request to see Jesus more clearly and hear from Him today -• Renewed life and what it should look like -• The role of the church in revealing God's restoration of all things -• Living as faithful servants of Jesus Christ until His return -• Witnessing to God's coming and kingdom through words and actions -• Welcoming new members into the church family and praying for their blessing -• Praying for the mission of the church around the world -• Praying for missionaries and those serving in difficult places -• Praying that God's kingdom would advance through unreached people and in own neighborhoods, workplaces, and life -• Asking to be used as missionaries from this place into God's world -• Praying for daily bread and trust in God's providential hand -• Praying for healing for those in need, including Patrick (Sarah's brother) who is recovering from COVID-19 -• Prayer for Martin and Karen's Dad in the ICU -• Update on adjustments made to his ventilator -• Praying for God to work in changes and bring healing -• Requesting restoration of parts of his body while on dialysis -• Prayers for the Spa family remembering Deb's life and their current struggles with COVID -• Prayer for peace during this time of turmoil and chaos -• Prayer for peace and abundance -• Request for protection and healing for individuals with health issues (Bob, Willie) -• Supplication for ongoing treatments and tests to be successful -• Intercession for rest and endurance in the midst of challenges -• Prayers for various individuals (Benita, Emo) -• Protection and restoration of a person (Benita) -• Request for God's healing to move in power -• Prayer for forgiveness and pardon -• Commemoration of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation -• Reflection on death, resurrection, and overcoming fear and sin -• Call to live with newness of life and not repeat the past. -• Reference is made to an unknown evil or temptation -• Prayer for healing and truth through the gospel of Jesus Christ -• Request for transformation through the spirit and word of God -• Prayer for Pastor Kevin's guidance in opening God's word -• Request for hearing the voice of Jesus speaking life to souls -• Prayer for faithfulness in the name of Jesus Christ -• Introducing a Bible study that will not perfectly align with the sermon series -• Explaining the purpose of the study is to dig deeper into First Peter -• Noting it's okay to engage with the material in multiple ways, not just on Sundays -• Announcing the book is free and encouraging participants to use it at their discretion -• Beginning the sermon series by reviewing the first chapter of First Peter -• Discussion of a book being written -• Plans to beat Pastor Chris's record time for recording -• Mention of editing video and potential slow pace -• Exhortation to follow along with First Peter One verses 1-9 -• Explanation of the purpose and meaning of the passage from First Peter -• A message of rejoicing and comfort in the face of suffering -• The value of faith, even if not visibly rewarded or seen -• The difference between worldly wealth (like gold) and spiritual worth -• The joy and glory that comes from believing in Jesus Christ, even when not physically present -• The authenticity and age of the book of 1 Peter in the Bible -• The authorship and writing date of the book of 1 Peter -• Nero and his persecution of Christians -• Peter writing a letter to the converted Jewish community -• Addressing them as "elect exiles" from the Roman Empire -• Comparing their situation to traditional exile where people are taken into captivity in a foreign land -• The contrast between being taken captive by a foreign power versus being called out and chosen by God -• Cultural differences between the recipient's old and new culture -• Need to conform to new laws and customs in the new home -• Comparison of the recipient's situation to Jesus as an exile -• Importance of believing in one God and Jesus' role as God's son -• Salvation through Jesus' death for sins -• Adaptation to a new culture that believes in multiple gods -• Ancient agricultural practices and their relation to deity worship -• Difference in religious beliefs between Christians and polytheistic cultures of the past -• Historical farming communities' offerings and prayers to gods related to weather and agriculture -• Social implications for a Christian farmer living in an ancient polytheistic community -• Potential consequences of not conforming to local customs and traditions -• Community and cultural differences -• Farmers' market in ancient times -• Influence of culture on daily life -• Jewish history and tradition -• Exiles and places of exile (Babylon, Persia) -• Faith and pillars of faith (Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego) -• Stories of faith and perseverance -• Conflict between faith and cultural norms -• The story of Daniel being cast into a lion's den because he was caught praying to God -• Comparison between Daniel and others who were in exile due to their faith in Jesus Christ -• How God called these individuals, like Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, to demonstrate faithfulness -• The lesson that God calls people to serve Him differently in various cultures -• Exiles living in a pagan culture -• Being called to remain steadfast in their faith -• Born again into a new hope -• Peter's writings and the text of the Bible -• Reading from the ESV (English Standard Version) translation -• Comparing different translations and versions of the Bible -• The resurrection of Jesus Christ -• Being born again into a living hope through the resurrection -• Inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading -• Salvation by faith -• Believing in Jesus Christ to receive salvation -• Peter highlighting the importance of believing in Jesus Christ -• Death and sin -• Jesus' death and resurrection -• Belief in Jesus as savior -• Being born again through faith in Christ -• Living hope that comes from Christ's life, death, and resurrection -• Inheritance and notes of understanding -• Discussion about a TV show on Netflix -• Show's focus on comedy and dealing with philosophical and ethical themes -• Main concept of the show: going to a perfect, dream house where people meet their soulmates -• The show is set in a utopian world with frozen yogurt shops on every corner -• Afterlife as a concept -• Viewing the afterlife in different ways (e.g. heaven, soulmates) -• The idea of living in a nice house with people who are like soulmates -• Enjoying pleasures in the afterlife (e.g. ice cream flavors) -• Discussion of a new earth and its characteristics -• Presence of rivers, trees, gardens, and various forms of life -• Existence of food, drink, and sustenance for all living things -• Absence of pain, memory, darkness, temptation, guilt, shame, fear, with only love, fulfillment, peace, and light present. -• Jesus is our living hope and inheritance -• He gives us the ability to endure life as exiles in this world and look forward to a future with Him -• Jesus became flesh, lived among us, died for us, and rose again, making it impossible for death or sin to hold Him down -• He is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, shining in glory now and throughout all time -• Eternity and the afterlife -• God's love and grace -• Hope in Christ for eternal futures -• Need to focus on hope in the future -• Challenge of living in a temporal world -• Difficulty seeing beyond the present -• The fleeting nature of life and time -• Finding eternal focus in a world full of uncertainty -• Understanding and accepting inheritance as a certainty -• Fearing for one's future and potential outcomes -• Overthinking and procrastination due to fear and anxiety -• Difficulty in coping with pain and suffering -• Reflection on past tragedies, particularly residential schools -• Uncertainty about how to work through reconciliation with others -• Importance of reconciliation with family, neighbors, and those who have been hurt -• Challenges in moving forward towards a glorious future -• Struggling with past mistakes and trauma -• Haunted by social media and online presence -• Fear of being judged or haunted for past mistakes -• Difficulty shaking off the weight of past decisions -• Burdened by the past affecting current life and future -• Implications of living with online documentation and scrutiny -• The security of one's future -• The impact of past experiences on current life -• Hope and eternity with God -• Forgiveness of sins and suffering -• Trust in Jesus Christ as the living hope -• Assuredness of Christ's return and living with certainty -• Rejoicing in God despite suffering and frustration -• The gospel truth is valid even in pagan cultures -• Peter's writings about living as a Christian in a pagan culture are relevant today -• Dissecting what it means to live as Christians in a pagan culture -• Debunking myths about paganism, both past and present -• Transcendent world vs. material reality -• Beliefs of atheism and paganism -• Greco-Roman gods and their characteristics -• Modern equivalents to ancient gods (e.g. Jeff as the god of pizza) -• Existence and nature of gods in various contexts -• The idea of gods existing and being appeased for personal benefit -• Paganism as a spiritual concept that exists for individuals and their earthly success or harm -• Tapping into the transcendent to affect one's life and imminence -• Peter's writing about growing popularity in Western culture -• Belief in practices like astrology, witchcraft, and ouija boards -• Trust in spirits and spiritual guidance -• Different approach to spirituality in modern culture compared to traditional Christianity -• Exile status of Christians in a pagan land -• Influence of paganism on current times and blending with traditional values -• Living as outsiders in a pagan society while maintaining one's faith. -• The concept of being "called" to live a holy life and be an example of Christ -• Being born again into this living hope and the importance of eternal life with Jesus as inheritance -• Persecution and suffering may come, but one is called to live holy lives and not let past or present circumstances define them -• The future with Christ is certain and should give hope and freedom from being confined by the past or present -• Living holy lives -• Being slandered, judged, or persecuted for one's beliefs -• Recognizing God's glory in the midst of a pagan culture -• The importance of standing up for one's faith in a world that may not understand it -• Mission to spread truth and live out Christianity in everyday life -• The importance of living for Christ and knowing one's future is secured in the living hope that is Jesus Christ -• Gratitude for God's gift of life, death, and resurrection through Jesus Christ -• Freedom from sin and death, and the ability to look ahead to eternal life with God -• Fear and anxiety about the past and future, but asking God to penetrate one's heart with reality -• Seeking to live in accordance with God's will and presence in their lives -• A prayer or hymn to God, referencing Jesus Christ and salvation -• Description of a person's spiritual journey, including feeling lost and turning to heaven for help -• References to sin, shame, forgiveness, and being called one of the King's own -• Expressions of praise and worship, including mentions of death losing its grip and chains being broken -• A description of Jesus Christ rising from the dead and sealing a promise with his resurrection -• Jesus Christ is our living hope -• Praise and worship through song -• Salvation in Jesus' name -• Breaking free from death's grip -• God's blessing and peace -• Reciting the Aaronic Blessing (Numbers 6:24-26) -• Repeated amen responses -• Prolonged repetition of the word "Amen" -• Final phrases of a conversation or meeting ("Thank you") \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 3 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 3 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2f6385af0fa55d0c68ed89f1ec12ab6e891c73e5..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 3 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,5379 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[569.98 --> 599.96] Thank you. -[599.98 --> 629.96] Thank you. -[629.98 --> 659.96] Thank you. -[659.98 --> 689.96] Thank you. -[689.98 --> 719.96] Thank you. -[719.98 --> 749.96] Thank you. -[749.96 --> 779.94] Thank you. -[779.96 --> 809.94] Thank you. -[809.94 --> 839.92] Thank you. -[839.94 --> 869.92] Amen. -[869.92 --> 899.90] And so, -[899.92 --> 929.90] So, if you are sort of, -[929.92 --> 959.90] with our, you know, -[959.90 --> 989.88] Tuesday, you know, -[989.88 --> 1019.86] and we're going to do, you know, -[1019.86 --> 1049.84] we're going to do, you know, -[1049.84 --> 1079.82] and we're going to do, you know, -[1079.82 --> 1109.80] and we're going to do, you know, -[1109.80 --> 1139.78] call, you know, we're going to do, you know, -[1139.78 --> 1169.78] and we're going to do, you know, -[1169.78 --> 1199.76] we can do, you know, we can do, you know, we can do, you know, we're going to do, you know, -[1199.76 --> 1229.76] and we're going to, you know, you know, we're going to do, you know, and we're going to do, you know, -[1229.76 --> 1238.62] together. So after one day, we reflect on that together. We continue to commit in those patterns -[1238.62 --> 1245.20] of being together. I'm going to invite you to stand. We're going to carry this heart and mind -[1245.20 --> 1249.08] into worship of our God as he greets us in his presence. -[1249.08 --> 1261.88] Amen. We receive the greeting of God because he is here gathering us together as a church family. -[1263.88 --> 1274.28] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father through his Son, Jesus Christ our Savior -[1274.28 --> 1282.26] in the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. All God's people said, amen. Let's continue -[1282.26 --> 1283.26] worshiping our God together. -[1286.86 --> 1292.16] Our call to worship today says, let us worship the eternal God, the source of love and life who -[1292.16 --> 1298.18] creates us. Let us worship Jesus Christ, the risen one who lives among us. Let us worship the spirit, -[1298.18 --> 1303.64] the holy fire who renews us. To the one true God be praise in all times and places, -[1304.28 --> 1306.04] through the grace of Jesus Christ. -[1306.04 --> 1310.22] O Lord -[1310.22 --> 1311.04] you -[1311.04 --> 1325.56] O -[1325.56 --> 1341.90] All hail King Jesus, all hail Emmanuel, King of kings, Lord of lords, bright morning star. -[1341.90 --> 1358.86] And throughout eternity I'll sing your praises, and I'll reign with you throughout eternity. -[1358.86 --> 1378.16] All hail King Jesus, all hail Emmanuel, King of kings, Lord of lords, bright morning star. -[1378.16 --> 1395.44] And throughout eternity I'll sing your praises, and I'll reign with you throughout eternity. -[1395.44 --> 1405.32] Dear God, we come before you to worship you, our King, our Lord. -[1405.88 --> 1409.62] You are worthy of all glory and honor and praise. -[1410.18 --> 1415.10] But God, we confess that we so easily turn our eyes away from you. -[1416.34 --> 1421.02] Our temptations, our fear, our anger, they get the best of us more often than not. -[1421.02 --> 1427.66] In these moments when our brokenness overwhelms us, we feel lost and without options, -[1428.24 --> 1431.38] remind us that you are there with us. -[1432.36 --> 1435.72] You are there when we feel like giving up, caving in. -[1436.24 --> 1439.78] You are there when we feel hopeless, helpless, worthless. -[1441.02 --> 1442.02] You are there. -[1442.90 --> 1443.92] You are here. -[1444.88 --> 1448.44] And your love remains the constant that we can come back to. -[1448.44 --> 1450.94] We may not understand it. -[1451.04 --> 1452.18] We may wrestle with it. -[1452.28 --> 1454.16] But you still love us. -[1455.20 --> 1456.54] One thing remains. -[1457.14 --> 1457.70] Your love. -[1457.70 --> 1466.38] Most clean and live. -[1466.38 --> 1467.16] Thank you. -[1467.16 --> 1479.78] And your love. -[1479.86 --> 1480.84] Amen. -[1480.84 --> 1481.72] Amen. -[1481.72 --> 1486.08] Amen. -[1486.08 --> 1492.18] Higher than the mountains that I face -[1492.18 --> 1498.78] And stronger than the power of the grave -[1498.78 --> 1505.64] Constant in the trial and the change -[1505.64 --> 1511.60] One thing remains -[1511.60 --> 1518.40] One thing remains -[1520.06 --> 1522.80] Your love never fails -[1522.80 --> 1524.26] It never gives up -[1524.26 --> 1527.08] It never runs out on me -[1527.08 --> 1529.82] Your love never fails -[1529.82 --> 1531.22] It never gives up -[1531.22 --> 1534.34] It never runs out on me -[1534.34 --> 1536.30] Your love never fails -[1536.88 --> 1538.30] It never gives up -[1538.30 --> 1541.22] It never runs out on me -[1541.22 --> 1544.98] your love. -[1548.42 --> 1555.46] On and on and on and on it goes. -[1555.46 --> 1561.38] It overwhelms and satisfies my soul. -[1562.80 --> 1567.88] And I never ever have to be afraid. -[1567.88 --> 1574.88] One thing remains. -[1574.88 --> 1582.88] One thing remains. -[1582.88 --> 1589.88] Your love never fails, it never gives up, it never runs out on me. -[1589.88 --> 1596.88] Your love never fails, it never gives up, it never runs out on me. -[1596.88 --> 1603.88] Your love never fails, it never gives up, it never runs out on me. -[1603.88 --> 1610.88] Your love never fails, it never gives up, it never gives up, it never gives up. -[1610.88 --> 1640.88] -[1640.88 --> 1670.88] -[1670.88 --> 1677.88] Your love never fails, it never gives up, it never runs out on me. -[1677.88 --> 1679.88] Your love never fails, it never gives up, it never runs out on me. -[1679.88 --> 1686.88] Your love never fails, it never gives up, it never runs out on me. -[1686.88 --> 1688.88] Your love never fails, it never gives up, it never runs out on me. -[1688.88 --> 1695.88] Your love never fails, it never gives up, it never runs out on me. -[1695.88 --> 1702.88] Your love never fails, it never gives up, it never runs out on me. -[1702.88 --> 1708.88] Your love never fails, it never gives up, it never runs out on me. -[1708.88 --> 1710.88] Your love. -[1710.88 --> 1723.88] Yes, Lord, your love remains, and you cover us with your love. -[1723.88 --> 1731.88] We can hold firm to that promise, that we are no longer slaves to sin, but that we are made new, living in that truth, a new life. -[1731.88 --> 1736.88] Even when we stumble, it is you who brings us back into that life, into that love. -[1736.88 --> 1740.88] For we are children of God, and nothing can ever change that. -[1740.88 --> 1742.88] In your name we pray, amen. -[1761.88 --> 1782.88] You unravel me with a melody. -[1782.88 --> 1804.88] You surround me with a song of deliverance from my enemies, till all my fears are gone. -[1804.88 --> 1813.88] I'm no longer a slave to fear. -[1813.88 --> 1819.88] I am a child of God. -[1819.88 --> 1827.88] I'm no longer a slave to fear. -[1827.88 --> 1833.88] I am a child of God. -[1833.88 --> 1846.88] I am a child of God. -[1846.88 --> 1853.88] In my mother's womb, you have chosen me. -[1853.88 --> 1859.88] Love has called my name. -[1859.88 --> 1866.88] I've been born again into your family. -[1866.88 --> 1867.88] I've been born again into your family. -[1867.88 --> 1872.88] Your blood flows through my veins. -[1872.88 --> 1880.88] I'm no longer a slave to fear. -[1880.88 --> 1890.88] I am a child of God. -[1890.88 --> 1893.88] I am a child of God. -[1893.88 --> 1900.88] I am a child of God. -[1900.88 --> 1913.88] I am a child of God. -[1913.88 --> 1920.88] You split the sea so I could walk right through it. -[1920.88 --> 1926.88] My fears were drowned in perfect love. -[1926.88 --> 1933.88] You rescued me so I could stand and sing. -[1933.88 --> 1939.88] I am a child of God. -[1939.88 --> 1940.88] I am a child of God. -[1940.88 --> 1949.88] You split the sea so I could walk right through it. -[1949.88 --> 1952.88] My fears were drowned in perfect love. -[1952.88 --> 1962.88] You rescued me so I could stand and sing. -[1962.88 --> 1967.88] I am a child of God. -[1967.88 --> 1977.88] I am a child of God. -[1977.88 --> 1982.88] I am a child of God. -[1982.88 --> 1997.88] I am a child of God. -[1997.88 --> 2002.88] I am a child of God. -[2002.88 --> 2012.88] I am a child of God. -[2032.88 --> 2041.88] I am a child of God. -[2041.88 --> 2045.88] We continue our worship this morning with the giving of our tithes and offerings. -[2045.88 --> 2051.88] This morning's offerings are first for our church's budget and second for Seeds of Hope Children's Ministry. -[2051.88 --> 2059.88] Seeds of Hope Children's Ministry started in 1995 after hearing about the flight of children orphaned because of AIDS. -[2059.88 --> 2066.88] In 1996, they opened their first house, HIV-AIDS children in Thailand. -[2066.88 --> 2073.88] Since they have been involved in bringing AIDS to children in several countries, including their biggest projects in Zambia. -[2073.88 --> 2080.88] Their aim is to save the lives of children by taking care by the care that they provide -[2080.88 --> 2085.88] and to give sustainable hope for the children and their communities by the program that they put in place. -[2085.88 --> 2094.88] With your generous support today, they will be able to provide excellent medical care for all the children affected by HIV in Africa and in Asia. -[2094.88 --> 2097.88] From James 1.27, it reads, -[2097.88 --> 2105.88] Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this, to look after orphans and widows in their distress, -[2105.88 --> 2109.88] and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. -[2109.88 --> 2112.88] Next week's special offering is for the Langley Food Bank. -[2112.88 --> 2114.88] Please give generously. -[2114.88 --> 2116.88] Please live. -[2116.88 --> 2117.88] Please. -[2117.88 --> 2118.88] Please join me. -[2118.88 --> 2119.88] Please join me. -[2119.88 --> 2120.88] Please join me. -[2120.88 --> 2124.88] Please join me -[2124.88 --> 2127.88] 2 -[2127.88 --> 2129.88] Please join me. -[2129.88 --> 2134.88] And join me in the past -[2134.88 --> 2144.00] His affection never wearies -[2144.00 --> 2148.44] And His mercy never ends -[2148.44 --> 2153.22] He reminds me every morning -[2153.22 --> 2157.66] I am still your faithful friend -[2157.66 --> 2163.48] He is good to those who seek Him -[2163.48 --> 2167.90] I will wait for Him to bless -[2167.90 --> 2172.82] And the Lord will be my portion -[2172.82 --> 2176.50] In the empty wilderness -[2176.50 --> 2182.58] In the goodness of the Lord -[2182.58 --> 2186.90] In the goodness of the Lord -[2186.90 --> 2192.74] I will wait for Him and set my hope -[2192.74 --> 2197.16] In the goodness of the Lord -[2197.16 --> 2205.10] His affection never wearies -[2205.10 --> 2208.74] And His mercy never ends -[2208.74 --> 2213.74] He reminds me every morning -[2213.74 --> 2218.74] I am still your faithful friend -[2218.74 --> 2224.80] He is good to those who seek Him -[2224.80 --> 2228.74] I will wait for Him to bless -[2228.74 --> 2233.74] And the Lord will be my portion -[2233.74 --> 2237.96] In the empty wilderness -[2237.96 --> 2243.74] In the goodness of the Lord -[2243.74 --> 2248.16] In the goodness of the Lord -[2248.16 --> 2253.16] I will wait for Him and set my hope -[2253.16 --> 2258.58] In the goodness of the Lord -[2258.58 --> 2263.16] In the goodness of the Lord -[2263.16 --> 2267.16] In the goodness of the Lord -[2267.16 --> 2273.16] I will wait for Him and set my hope -[2273.16 --> 2278.16] In the goodness of the Lord -[2278.16 --> 2291.30] We're going to take a moment -[2291.30 --> 2294.44] And acknowledge the goodness of God -[2294.44 --> 2296.06] To us as we welcome -[2296.06 --> 2297.88] A couple new families -[2297.88 --> 2299.90] Here to our church family -[2299.90 --> 2301.50] And so I'm going to invite -[2301.50 --> 2303.52] John and Helen Van Bergeyk -[2303.52 --> 2304.58] To come on to the front -[2304.58 --> 2306.58] And Tim and Petra Bonkis -[2306.58 --> 2308.44] Along with their four kids -[2308.44 --> 2309.94] To come up to the front -[2309.94 --> 2311.88] John and Helen -[2311.88 --> 2313.56] Why don't you take this side over here -[2313.56 --> 2315.54] Tim and Petra -[2315.54 --> 2319.36] Why don't your brood take this side over here -[2319.36 --> 2324.04] These are probably familiar faces -[2324.04 --> 2325.06] To many of you -[2325.06 --> 2326.10] They have been worshipping -[2326.10 --> 2328.30] With us for a little while now -[2328.30 --> 2331.10] And in different ways -[2331.10 --> 2333.66] Strangely so through our COVID seasons -[2333.66 --> 2335.26] And all of the like -[2335.26 --> 2337.38] But we are excited here -[2337.38 --> 2338.76] To welcome you guys -[2338.76 --> 2340.14] Officially and formally -[2340.14 --> 2341.96] Into our church fellowship -[2341.96 --> 2343.02] And to do that -[2343.02 --> 2344.64] We mark that welcome -[2344.64 --> 2346.08] By asking you a few questions -[2346.08 --> 2347.98] And then getting your commitment -[2347.98 --> 2349.42] First to the Lord -[2349.42 --> 2350.84] And to us as church -[2350.84 --> 2352.26] And then also -[2352.26 --> 2354.14] In you making commitment -[2354.14 --> 2355.90] To us here -[2355.90 --> 2357.22] In that -[2357.22 --> 2358.84] And in this ceremony here -[2358.84 --> 2360.56] Also our commitment to you -[2360.56 --> 2363.52] As members of this church family -[2363.52 --> 2365.60] And so John and Helen -[2365.60 --> 2366.74] And Tim and Petra -[2366.74 --> 2368.54] I'm going to ask a series of questions -[2368.54 --> 2372.00] And then following those questions -[2372.00 --> 2374.24] I will invite your response -[2374.24 --> 2376.08] We want to welcome you -[2376.08 --> 2377.00] Into the fellowship -[2377.00 --> 2378.68] Of this church -[2378.68 --> 2380.28] And it's our hope and prayer -[2380.28 --> 2380.96] That here -[2380.96 --> 2382.62] Your faith in God -[2382.62 --> 2383.40] Will be strengthened -[2383.40 --> 2384.74] Your love for Jesus -[2384.74 --> 2385.52] Will be grown -[2385.52 --> 2386.78] And that you will find -[2386.78 --> 2387.48] An opportunity -[2387.48 --> 2388.56] To serve -[2388.56 --> 2390.10] In the power of the spirit -[2390.10 --> 2391.26] As you join us -[2391.26 --> 2392.58] On mission with God -[2392.58 --> 2394.12] To this community -[2394.12 --> 2395.36] And through here -[2395.36 --> 2396.26] To the world -[2396.26 --> 2397.98] As we welcome you -[2397.98 --> 2399.08] Into our church family -[2399.08 --> 2400.28] We ask that you -[2400.28 --> 2401.44] Affirm the faith -[2401.44 --> 2403.10] That you have professed -[2403.10 --> 2404.30] And your commitment -[2404.30 --> 2405.24] To God's mission -[2405.24 --> 2406.46] In and through -[2406.46 --> 2407.28] Langley Emmanuel -[2407.28 --> 2409.00] To our city and region -[2409.00 --> 2410.72] And then to the world -[2410.72 --> 2411.62] To do so -[2411.62 --> 2412.36] We're going to ask you -[2412.36 --> 2414.20] These three questions -[2414.20 --> 2415.00] And so I will ask -[2415.00 --> 2416.26] All three questions -[2416.26 --> 2417.16] And then I will invite you -[2417.16 --> 2417.76] To respond -[2417.76 --> 2418.86] And then I will invite you -[2418.86 --> 2419.98] To respond together -[2419.98 --> 2421.38] First -[2421.38 --> 2422.88] Do you believe -[2422.88 --> 2424.12] In Jesus as your -[2424.12 --> 2425.06] Savior and Lord -[2425.06 --> 2426.78] And that in him only -[2426.78 --> 2428.12] Is hope and freedom -[2428.12 --> 2429.34] From sin found -[2429.34 --> 2430.96] Do you believe -[2430.96 --> 2431.58] That the Bible -[2431.58 --> 2432.64] Is the word of God -[2432.64 --> 2433.86] Revealing his plan -[2433.86 --> 2434.54] For redemption -[2434.54 --> 2435.64] In Jesus Christ -[2435.64 --> 2436.74] And that the preaching -[2436.74 --> 2437.32] And teaching -[2437.32 --> 2438.34] Of Langley Emmanuel -[2438.34 --> 2439.90] Reflect this truth -[2439.90 --> 2441.92] And do you promise -[2441.92 --> 2442.56] With the help -[2442.56 --> 2443.56] Of the Holy Spirit -[2443.56 --> 2445.04] To do all that you can -[2445.04 --> 2445.96] To strengthen -[2445.96 --> 2446.80] Your relationship -[2446.80 --> 2447.32] To Jesus -[2447.32 --> 2448.74] By being part of -[2448.74 --> 2450.64] The life of this church -[2450.64 --> 2453.08] Recognizing its oversight -[2453.08 --> 2453.84] And authority -[2453.84 --> 2455.22] And joining with us -[2455.22 --> 2456.38] On mission for Jesus -[2456.38 --> 2457.46] In this community -[2457.46 --> 2458.62] This city -[2458.62 --> 2459.66] And to the world -[2459.66 --> 2461.08] John and Helen -[2461.08 --> 2461.92] What is your answer? -[2465.44 --> 2466.64] Tim and Petra -[2466.64 --> 2467.42] What is your answer? -[2469.76 --> 2470.40] Amen -[2470.40 --> 2472.28] Langley Emmanuel -[2472.28 --> 2474.10] These brothers and sisters -[2474.10 --> 2475.58] Have now become -[2475.58 --> 2477.06] Officially and formally -[2477.06 --> 2478.28] Brothers and sisters -[2478.28 --> 2479.80] To you -[2479.80 --> 2480.32] And so I'm going to -[2480.32 --> 2481.32] Invite you to -[2481.32 --> 2483.04] As one body -[2483.04 --> 2484.20] Also to stand -[2484.20 --> 2490.08] And I'm going to -[2490.08 --> 2491.74] Ask you the same question -[2491.74 --> 2493.82] Or a similar question -[2493.82 --> 2494.72] And invite you to -[2494.72 --> 2496.62] Respond by saying -[2496.62 --> 2498.44] We do with God's help -[2498.44 --> 2500.28] And so do you -[2500.28 --> 2501.24] Brothers and sisters -[2501.24 --> 2502.24] Of Langley Emmanuel -[2502.24 --> 2504.04] Promise these people -[2504.04 --> 2505.48] Your love and support -[2505.48 --> 2506.94] And welcome into -[2506.94 --> 2507.70] The fellowship -[2507.70 --> 2509.82] That is our church -[2509.82 --> 2510.48] Family -[2510.48 --> 2511.56] What is your answer? -[2514.60 --> 2515.12] Amen -[2515.12 --> 2516.42] And amen -[2516.42 --> 2517.28] Let's welcome -[2517.28 --> 2518.86] These folks together -[2518.86 --> 2520.88] Thank you guys -[2520.88 --> 2521.58] You may be seated -[2521.58 --> 2522.90] You may go back -[2522.90 --> 2523.42] To your seats -[2523.42 --> 2527.36] You may all have a seat -[2527.36 --> 2528.22] I encourage you -[2528.22 --> 2529.52] As it is safe -[2529.52 --> 2531.22] And as they are available -[2531.22 --> 2532.82] To welcome them -[2532.82 --> 2534.08] After our service -[2534.08 --> 2535.74] Together today -[2535.74 --> 2537.60] Eric where are you? -[2537.64 --> 2538.06] There you are -[2538.06 --> 2542.92] Alright kids -[2542.92 --> 2543.72] Come on up front -[2543.72 --> 2545.14] For the children's blessing -[2545.14 --> 2559.38] Good morning everybody -[2559.38 --> 2560.24] How's everyone doing -[2560.24 --> 2560.72] This morning? -[2561.62 --> 2562.10] Yeah? -[2563.06 --> 2563.88] Everybody had a good -[2563.88 --> 2564.68] Sleep last night? -[2566.62 --> 2567.34] That's good -[2567.34 --> 2567.94] That's good -[2567.94 --> 2571.04] I got a test question -[2571.04 --> 2571.62] For you guys -[2571.62 --> 2572.40] About last Sunday -[2572.40 --> 2572.90] I thought I did -[2572.90 --> 2573.62] A pretty good job -[2573.62 --> 2574.48] Teaching the Sunday -[2574.48 --> 2575.10] School lesson -[2575.10 --> 2575.78] In the back there -[2575.78 --> 2576.18] So I'm going to -[2576.18 --> 2576.78] Check to see -[2576.78 --> 2577.18] If you guys -[2577.18 --> 2577.74] Remember what we -[2577.74 --> 2578.12] Talked about -[2578.12 --> 2578.58] Does anybody -[2578.58 --> 2579.10] Remember what -[2579.10 --> 2579.98] The story was about -[2579.98 --> 2580.70] In the back room -[2580.70 --> 2581.08] What were we -[2581.08 --> 2581.64] Talking about? -[2582.92 --> 2583.64] You can put your -[2583.64 --> 2584.04] Hand up -[2584.04 --> 2584.28] Yeah -[2584.28 --> 2584.88] There we go -[2584.88 --> 2585.46] What were we -[2585.46 --> 2585.92] Talking about? -[2586.84 --> 2587.48] We were talking -[2587.48 --> 2587.98] About Jesus -[2587.98 --> 2588.54] Yes -[2588.54 --> 2589.48] That's a good answer -[2589.48 --> 2592.16] We were talking -[2592.16 --> 2592.66] About the Bible -[2592.66 --> 2593.14] That's another -[2593.14 --> 2593.70] Good answer -[2593.70 --> 2594.36] Yeah -[2594.36 --> 2595.80] We were talking -[2595.80 --> 2596.42] About creation -[2596.42 --> 2596.94] Thanks -[2596.94 --> 2598.36] And we were talking -[2598.36 --> 2598.90] About all the -[2598.90 --> 2599.86] Different crazy -[2599.86 --> 2600.52] Looking -[2600.52 --> 2601.70] What in the world? -[2603.82 --> 2604.30] Animals -[2604.30 --> 2604.86] Remember we were -[2604.86 --> 2605.54] Talking about -[2605.54 --> 2605.82] All the -[2605.82 --> 2606.40] We were talking -[2606.40 --> 2606.78] About all the -[2606.78 --> 2607.64] Crazy animals -[2607.64 --> 2608.82] And the lions -[2608.82 --> 2609.22] Yeah -[2609.22 --> 2610.64] Anyway -[2610.64 --> 2611.44] That was cool -[2611.44 --> 2611.94] That was fun -[2611.94 --> 2613.60] Today we are -[2613.60 --> 2614.24] Talking about -[2614.24 --> 2615.00] The next part -[2615.00 --> 2615.58] Of the story -[2615.58 --> 2616.28] And there's a -[2616.28 --> 2617.62] Crazy slithery -[2617.62 --> 2618.34] Creature that -[2618.34 --> 2619.32] Comes into the -[2619.32 --> 2619.90] Garden of Eden -[2619.90 --> 2620.36] Does anybody -[2620.36 --> 2620.88] Know what that -[2620.88 --> 2621.38] Thing is? -[2622.14 --> 2622.52] Malachi -[2622.52 --> 2624.54] Pardon me? -[2625.48 --> 2626.18] The snake -[2626.18 --> 2626.52] We're going to -[2626.52 --> 2627.10] Talk about the snake -[2627.10 --> 2627.96] Who likes snakes? -[2628.30 --> 2628.88] I don't -[2628.88 --> 2629.60] I do -[2629.60 --> 2630.00] There's some -[2630.00 --> 2630.88] People like snakes -[2630.88 --> 2631.84] Really? -[2632.64 --> 2632.88] That's -[2632.88 --> 2635.64] They're only good -[2635.64 --> 2636.10] To look at -[2636.10 --> 2636.90] I would agree -[2636.90 --> 2637.26] With you -[2637.26 --> 2639.04] You know -[2639.04 --> 2639.62] When I was -[2639.62 --> 2641.14] Young and -[2641.14 --> 2641.56] Your guys -[2641.56 --> 2641.78] Age -[2641.78 --> 2642.18] I watched -[2642.18 --> 2642.68] This movie -[2642.68 --> 2643.44] Called Indiana -[2643.44 --> 2643.96] Jones -[2643.96 --> 2644.54] And I bet -[2644.54 --> 2645.06] Your parents -[2645.06 --> 2645.68] Watched that movie -[2645.68 --> 2646.26] There was some -[2646.26 --> 2647.22] Crazy snake -[2647.22 --> 2647.90] Scenes in that -[2647.90 --> 2648.28] Story -[2648.28 --> 2649.42] Kind of made us -[2649.42 --> 2649.78] All a little -[2649.78 --> 2650.50] Scared of snakes -[2650.50 --> 2650.88] When we were -[2650.88 --> 2651.16] Young -[2651.16 --> 2652.68] Still kind of -[2652.68 --> 2653.34] Am about that -[2653.34 --> 2653.82] Because of that -[2653.82 --> 2654.06] Show -[2654.06 --> 2654.90] But anyway -[2654.90 --> 2656.74] So we're going -[2656.74 --> 2657.24] To talk about -[2657.24 --> 2657.60] The -[2657.60 --> 2659.24] When the serpent -[2659.24 --> 2659.88] Comes into the -[2659.88 --> 2660.38] Garden of Eden -[2660.38 --> 2660.92] Back in the -[2660.92 --> 2661.54] Sunday school room -[2661.54 --> 2662.12] But right now -[2662.12 --> 2662.42] We're going to -[2662.42 --> 2663.00] Stand up and -[2663.00 --> 2663.30] We're going to -[2663.30 --> 2663.96] Do the children's -[2663.96 --> 2664.28] Blessing -[2664.28 --> 2664.82] Can we do that? -[2671.14 --> 2671.74] All right -[2671.74 --> 2672.22] Everybody -[2672.22 --> 2672.70] Kids -[2672.70 --> 2673.52] Let's face the -[2673.52 --> 2674.44] Adults out there -[2674.44 --> 2675.60] And we know -[2675.60 --> 2676.18] What we got to do -[2676.18 --> 2677.20] Put your hands out -[2677.20 --> 2679.28] The Lord -[2679.28 --> 2684.24] All right -[2684.24 --> 2684.88] Let's go -[2684.88 --> 2714.86] Let's go -[2714.86 --> 2722.04] As the kids -[2722.04 --> 2722.66] Are making their -[2722.66 --> 2723.30] Way out -[2723.30 --> 2724.80] It's my privilege -[2724.80 --> 2725.58] To lead us -[2725.58 --> 2726.40] In prayer -[2726.40 --> 2726.96] This morning -[2726.96 --> 2727.36] And -[2727.36 --> 2729.82] Over the last -[2729.82 --> 2731.20] Few weeks -[2731.20 --> 2732.08] We have been -[2732.08 --> 2732.96] Mentioning a number -[2732.96 --> 2733.52] Of people -[2733.52 --> 2734.72] In our community -[2734.72 --> 2735.32] Are closely -[2735.32 --> 2736.24] Connected to our -[2736.24 --> 2736.64] Community -[2736.64 --> 2737.30] Who have been -[2737.30 --> 2738.82] Deeply affected -[2738.82 --> 2739.76] Either in -[2739.76 --> 2740.62] Being in hospital -[2740.62 --> 2744.06] Or dying -[2744.06 --> 2745.06] From COVID -[2745.06 --> 2745.70] And so -[2745.70 --> 2746.46] We're going to -[2746.46 --> 2747.52] Continue in that -[2747.52 --> 2748.22] Prayer -[2748.22 --> 2749.48] And trust that -[2749.48 --> 2749.96] Some of you -[2749.96 --> 2750.76] Were able to -[2750.76 --> 2752.06] Participate in the -[2752.06 --> 2753.30] Celebration of life -[2753.30 --> 2753.96] That took place -[2753.96 --> 2754.70] For Deb's spa -[2754.70 --> 2755.14] Yesterday -[2755.14 --> 2756.46] As you were able -[2756.46 --> 2757.24] To get the link -[2757.24 --> 2757.62] Online -[2757.62 --> 2758.06] There was some -[2758.06 --> 2758.76] Confusion about the -[2758.76 --> 2759.20] Link but that -[2759.20 --> 2760.10] Did get sorted out -[2760.10 --> 2760.48] And so -[2760.48 --> 2761.76] Hope that you -[2761.76 --> 2762.42] Were able to -[2762.42 --> 2764.12] Connect with the -[2764.12 --> 2764.72] Spa family -[2764.72 --> 2765.66] In that regard -[2765.66 --> 2766.58] We will remember -[2766.58 --> 2767.26] Them in our -[2767.26 --> 2767.90] Prayer together -[2767.90 --> 2768.38] This morning -[2768.38 --> 2768.84] I'm going to -[2768.84 --> 2769.28] Invite you to -[2769.28 --> 2769.80] Join your heart -[2769.80 --> 2770.26] With mine -[2770.26 --> 2770.98] And we might -[2770.98 --> 2771.68] Pray to our -[2771.68 --> 2772.20] God together -[2772.20 --> 2773.16] Let's pray -[2773.16 --> 2783.40] Our father -[2783.40 --> 2784.94] Who art -[2784.94 --> 2785.64] In -[2785.64 --> 2786.66] Heaven -[2786.66 --> 2788.80] Hallowed -[2788.80 --> 2790.12] Be your name -[2790.12 --> 2792.54] Lord God -[2792.54 --> 2793.18] Make much -[2793.18 --> 2793.98] Of yourself -[2793.98 --> 2794.88] In our -[2794.88 --> 2795.78] Midst this -[2795.78 --> 2796.08] Morning -[2796.08 --> 2799.02] Magnify -[2799.02 --> 2799.64] Yourself -[2799.64 --> 2800.30] By our -[2800.30 --> 2801.06] Praises -[2801.06 --> 2801.78] Here -[2801.78 --> 2803.88] Stir our -[2803.88 --> 2804.48] Hearts -[2804.48 --> 2805.12] That we might -[2805.12 --> 2806.12] Encounter -[2806.12 --> 2806.62] Your -[2806.62 --> 2807.42] Spirit -[2807.42 --> 2808.60] That today -[2808.60 --> 2809.38] We might -[2809.38 --> 2809.78] Know -[2809.78 --> 2810.60] Life -[2810.60 --> 2812.76] And life -[2812.76 --> 2814.04] Abundant -[2814.04 --> 2817.32] May we know -[2817.32 --> 2817.80] That the -[2817.80 --> 2818.70] Abundancy -[2818.70 --> 2819.68] Of life -[2819.68 --> 2820.44] Comes from -[2820.44 --> 2821.02] Living for -[2821.02 --> 2821.58] The glory -[2821.58 --> 2822.02] Of your -[2822.02 --> 2822.30] Name -[2822.30 --> 2823.92] It never -[2823.92 --> 2824.52] Comes by -[2824.52 --> 2825.02] The abundance -[2825.02 --> 2825.84] Of things -[2825.84 --> 2826.74] It never -[2826.74 --> 2827.44] Comes by -[2827.44 --> 2829.78] The abundance -[2829.78 --> 2830.88] Of wealth -[2830.88 --> 2832.46] Never comes -[2832.46 --> 2833.98] In the abundance -[2833.98 --> 2834.58] Of food -[2834.58 --> 2835.26] Or in the -[2835.26 --> 2835.70] Surplus -[2835.70 --> 2836.34] Of others -[2836.34 --> 2837.34] But it -[2837.34 --> 2837.66] Comes -[2837.66 --> 2839.40] From knowing -[2839.40 --> 2840.32] You -[2840.32 --> 2842.22] And so -[2842.22 --> 2842.58] Today -[2842.58 --> 2843.44] Lord Jesus -[2843.44 --> 2844.60] Help us -[2844.60 --> 2845.32] To see -[2845.32 --> 2846.20] You -[2846.20 --> 2847.00] More -[2847.00 --> 2847.80] Clearly -[2847.80 --> 2850.22] Open our -[2850.22 --> 2850.70] Eyes -[2850.70 --> 2851.54] And our -[2851.54 --> 2852.10] Ears -[2852.10 --> 2852.48] That we -[2852.48 --> 2853.38] Might hear -[2853.38 --> 2854.16] From you -[2854.16 --> 2854.86] Today -[2854.86 --> 2857.60] Speak -[2857.60 --> 2858.12] In the -[2858.12 --> 2858.52] Power -[2858.52 --> 2859.38] Of our -[2859.38 --> 2859.98] Songs -[2859.98 --> 2860.96] Speak -[2860.96 --> 2861.42] In the -[2861.42 --> 2861.74] Power -[2861.74 --> 2862.54] Of our -[2862.54 --> 2863.60] Prayers -[2863.60 --> 2864.34] Speak -[2864.34 --> 2864.76] In the -[2864.76 --> 2865.08] Power -[2865.08 --> 2865.60] Of your -[2865.60 --> 2866.04] Word -[2866.04 --> 2867.06] That in -[2867.06 --> 2867.68] This -[2867.68 --> 2868.40] Place -[2868.40 --> 2868.98] Together -[2868.98 --> 2871.08] It might -[2871.08 --> 2871.86] Be for us -[2871.86 --> 2872.60] A sacred -[2872.60 --> 2873.48] Space -[2873.48 --> 2874.60] Where we -[2874.60 --> 2875.10] Encounter -[2875.10 --> 2875.82] A holy -[2875.82 --> 2876.98] And living -[2876.98 --> 2877.92] God -[2877.92 --> 2881.44] Your kingdom -[2881.44 --> 2881.92] Come -[2881.92 --> 2884.36] Reveal your -[2884.36 --> 2884.72] Kingdom -[2884.72 --> 2885.88] Through us -[2885.88 --> 2886.74] To the world -[2886.74 --> 2888.62] And use us -[2888.62 --> 2889.50] As your church -[2889.50 --> 2890.54] To show -[2890.54 --> 2891.48] What a -[2891.48 --> 2892.52] Renewed life -[2892.52 --> 2893.64] Ought to -[2893.64 --> 2894.58] Look like -[2894.58 --> 2895.46] Use us -[2895.46 --> 2896.16] As your -[2896.16 --> 2896.66] Church -[2896.66 --> 2898.20] To reveal -[2898.20 --> 2899.28] How you -[2899.28 --> 2900.34] Restore -[2900.34 --> 2901.42] All things -[2901.42 --> 2902.30] To yourself -[2902.30 --> 2904.84] And until -[2904.84 --> 2905.40] The day -[2905.40 --> 2905.98] Lord God -[2905.98 --> 2906.38] When you -[2906.38 --> 2906.88] Do that -[2906.88 --> 2907.74] In fullness -[2907.74 --> 2909.52] Embolden -[2909.52 --> 2910.80] Our faith -[2910.80 --> 2912.84] Strengthen -[2912.84 --> 2914.00] Our resolve -[2914.00 --> 2914.94] And help -[2914.94 --> 2915.52] Us to -[2915.52 --> 2916.34] Fix our -[2916.34 --> 2916.78] Eyes -[2916.78 --> 2917.72] More clearly -[2917.72 --> 2918.50] On Jesus -[2918.50 --> 2919.34] And the -[2919.34 --> 2920.28] New heavens -[2920.28 --> 2920.82] And new -[2920.82 --> 2921.18] Earth -[2921.18 --> 2921.80] To come -[2921.80 --> 2923.72] That as -[2923.72 --> 2924.16] We are -[2924.16 --> 2924.96] Captivated -[2924.96 --> 2925.52] By the -[2925.52 --> 2925.92] Glory -[2925.92 --> 2927.00] Of your -[2927.00 --> 2927.46] Kingdom -[2927.46 --> 2927.96] Coming -[2927.96 --> 2929.80] We might -[2929.80 --> 2930.76] Live in -[2930.76 --> 2931.22] The present -[2931.22 --> 2932.06] As faithful -[2932.06 --> 2932.74] Servants -[2932.74 --> 2933.80] Of that -[2933.80 --> 2934.50] Day -[2934.50 --> 2936.90] Here is -[2936.90 --> 2937.54] Your church -[2937.54 --> 2938.20] Lord God -[2938.20 --> 2938.58] As we -[2938.58 --> 2939.52] Have opportunity -[2939.52 --> 2940.38] To witness -[2940.38 --> 2941.14] To your -[2941.14 --> 2941.64] Coming -[2941.64 --> 2942.92] Because of -[2942.92 --> 2943.52] Your first -[2943.52 --> 2944.20] Coming in -[2944.20 --> 2944.92] Jesus Christ -[2944.92 --> 2945.46] And your -[2945.46 --> 2946.00] Continued -[2946.00 --> 2946.56] Coming to -[2946.56 --> 2946.78] Us -[2946.78 --> 2947.44] Through your -[2947.44 --> 2947.86] Spirit -[2947.86 --> 2948.34] As your -[2948.34 --> 2948.96] Word is -[2948.96 --> 2949.34] At work -[2949.34 --> 2949.68] In the -[2949.68 --> 2949.98] World -[2949.98 --> 2951.06] We also -[2951.06 --> 2951.52] Give you -[2951.52 --> 2952.02] Thanks -[2952.02 --> 2953.14] That this -[2953.14 --> 2953.66] Morning we -[2953.66 --> 2954.16] Could welcome -[2954.16 --> 2955.36] New members -[2955.36 --> 2956.42] Into our -[2956.42 --> 2957.54] Church family -[2957.54 --> 2958.40] Fellowship -[2958.40 --> 2959.92] We pray -[2959.92 --> 2960.36] Lord God -[2960.36 --> 2960.60] That you -[2960.60 --> 2961.18] Would continue -[2961.18 --> 2961.90] To bless -[2961.90 --> 2962.56] John and -[2962.56 --> 2963.52] Helen and -[2963.52 --> 2964.16] Tim and -[2964.16 --> 2965.20] Petra and -[2965.20 --> 2965.62] Their four -[2965.62 --> 2966.50] Kids Josh -[2966.50 --> 2966.90] Ryan -[2966.90 --> 2967.50] Megan and -[2967.50 --> 2967.76] Abby -[2967.76 --> 2969.34] Continue to -[2969.34 --> 2970.00] Bless them -[2970.00 --> 2971.08] Through us -[2971.08 --> 2971.88] Here as -[2971.88 --> 2972.60] Church and -[2972.60 --> 2972.92] Through the -[2972.92 --> 2973.92] Ministries and -[2973.92 --> 2974.72] Mission of -[2974.72 --> 2975.08] Langley -[2975.08 --> 2976.16] Emmanuel but -[2976.16 --> 2977.12] Also Lord God -[2977.12 --> 2978.12] Allow them -[2978.12 --> 2979.10] To be a -[2979.10 --> 2979.90] Blessing to -[2979.90 --> 2980.46] Us -[2980.46 --> 2981.32] Allow them -[2981.32 --> 2982.24] To come -[2982.24 --> 2983.04] Into the -[2983.04 --> 2983.68] Fellowship -[2983.68 --> 2984.52] And mission -[2984.52 --> 2985.60] And service -[2985.60 --> 2986.40] Of your -[2986.40 --> 2987.18] Kingdom -[2987.18 --> 2989.22] Lord God -[2989.22 --> 2989.98] May we -[2989.98 --> 2990.98] Not just -[2990.98 --> 2991.94] Make space -[2991.94 --> 2992.66] For them -[2992.66 --> 2993.38] Here but -[2993.38 --> 2994.20] May we -[2994.20 --> 2995.62] Integrate -[2995.62 --> 2996.40] Them as -[2996.40 --> 2996.96] Members -[2996.96 --> 2998.16] Of our -[2998.16 --> 2999.16] Family -[2999.16 --> 3001.38] Your will -[3001.38 --> 3001.78] Be done -[3001.78 --> 3002.42] On earth -[3002.42 --> 3003.02] As it is -[3003.02 --> 3003.40] In heaven -[3003.40 --> 3005.54] And so -[3005.54 --> 3006.06] Lord God -[3006.06 --> 3006.50] We pray -[3006.50 --> 3006.84] For the -[3006.84 --> 3007.26] Mission of -[3007.26 --> 3007.68] Your church -[3007.68 --> 3008.26] Around the -[3008.26 --> 3008.50] World -[3008.50 --> 3010.38] We pray -[3010.38 --> 3010.88] For those -[3010.88 --> 3011.28] Who have -[3011.28 --> 3012.60] Given themselves -[3012.60 --> 3013.40] Holy -[3013.40 --> 3014.50] In vocational -[3014.50 --> 3016.74] Missionary -[3016.74 --> 3017.34] Service -[3017.34 --> 3018.20] To your -[3018.20 --> 3018.72] Church -[3018.72 --> 3019.14] We pray -[3019.14 --> 3019.66] For those -[3019.66 --> 3020.00] Who are -[3020.00 --> 3020.94] Serving in -[3020.94 --> 3021.66] Places where -[3021.66 --> 3022.36] It is not -[3022.36 --> 3023.14] Even legal -[3023.14 --> 3023.68] To be -[3023.68 --> 3024.36] Christian -[3024.36 --> 3024.70] Where it -[3024.70 --> 3024.96] Is not -[3024.96 --> 3025.52] Even legal -[3025.52 --> 3026.20] To say -[3026.20 --> 3026.94] The name -[3026.94 --> 3027.80] Jesus -[3027.80 --> 3029.90] We pray -[3029.90 --> 3030.20] That your -[3030.20 --> 3030.56] Kingdom -[3030.56 --> 3031.38] Would advance -[3031.38 --> 3032.34] In those -[3032.34 --> 3033.10] Places and -[3033.10 --> 3033.72] Through those -[3033.72 --> 3035.10] Yet unreached -[3035.10 --> 3035.76] People -[3035.76 --> 3037.68] Similarly -[3037.68 --> 3038.18] God we -[3038.18 --> 3038.58] Pray that -[3038.58 --> 3038.98] Your kingdom -[3038.98 --> 3039.50] Would advance -[3039.50 --> 3039.86] In our -[3039.86 --> 3040.06] Own -[3040.06 --> 3040.68] Neighborhoods -[3040.68 --> 3040.90] In our -[3040.90 --> 3041.08] Own -[3041.08 --> 3041.66] Workplaces -[3041.66 --> 3042.76] And third -[3042.76 --> 3043.30] Places -[3043.30 --> 3044.06] Of life -[3044.06 --> 3044.36] And that -[3044.36 --> 3044.60] You would -[3044.60 --> 3045.40] Use us -[3045.40 --> 3046.30] Sent as -[3046.30 --> 3047.06] Well as -[3047.06 --> 3047.68] Missionaries -[3047.68 --> 3048.30] From this -[3048.30 --> 3048.84] Place -[3048.84 --> 3050.14] Into -[3050.14 --> 3051.20] Your world -[3051.20 --> 3054.18] As we -[3054.18 --> 3054.36] Go -[3054.36 --> 3054.82] Lord God -[3054.82 --> 3055.18] We pray -[3055.18 --> 3055.76] Give us -[3055.76 --> 3056.44] This day -[3056.44 --> 3057.02] Our daily -[3057.02 --> 3057.32] Bread -[3057.32 --> 3060.72] May we -[3060.72 --> 3061.40] Trust in -[3061.40 --> 3061.76] Your -[3061.76 --> 3062.74] Providential -[3062.74 --> 3063.16] Hand -[3063.16 --> 3064.16] Providing -[3064.16 --> 3064.52] What we -[3064.52 --> 3064.94] Need for -[3064.94 --> 3065.30] Today -[3065.30 --> 3066.66] May we -[3066.66 --> 3067.40] Trust in -[3067.40 --> 3067.72] Your -[3067.72 --> 3068.40] Healing -[3068.40 --> 3068.82] Hand -[3068.82 --> 3069.74] Providing -[3069.74 --> 3070.44] What we -[3070.44 --> 3070.98] Need for -[3070.98 --> 3071.54] Our bodies -[3071.54 --> 3072.08] And for -[3072.08 --> 3072.56] Our health -[3072.56 --> 3074.28] We continue -[3074.28 --> 3074.94] In prayer -[3074.94 --> 3075.54] This morning -[3075.54 --> 3076.26] For Patrick -[3076.26 --> 3077.26] Sarah's -[3077.26 --> 3077.54] Brother -[3077.54 --> 3078.74] Who keeps -[3078.74 --> 3079.24] Taking a -[3079.24 --> 3079.82] Step forward -[3079.82 --> 3080.34] But then -[3080.34 --> 3081.32] Taking a -[3081.32 --> 3081.96] Step back -[3081.96 --> 3082.58] With his -[3082.58 --> 3083.42] COVID -[3083.42 --> 3084.12] Diagnosis -[3084.12 --> 3084.52] We pray -[3084.52 --> 3084.82] For his -[3084.82 --> 3085.36] Continued -[3085.36 --> 3085.76] Care -[3085.76 --> 3086.18] In -[3086.18 --> 3087.86] ICU -[3087.86 --> 3088.06] You -[3088.06 --> 3089.44] Pray that -[3089.44 --> 3089.82] You would -[3089.82 --> 3090.66] Bring healing -[3090.66 --> 3091.96] To him -[3091.96 --> 3092.78] We pray -[3092.78 --> 3093.32] As well -[3093.32 --> 3094.08] That you -[3094.08 --> 3094.42] Would be -[3094.42 --> 3094.88] Near to -[3094.88 --> 3095.24] Sarah -[3095.24 --> 3095.64] And to -[3095.64 --> 3096.02] The rest -[3096.02 --> 3096.26] Of the -[3096.26 --> 3096.58] Family -[3096.58 --> 3097.02] As they -[3097.02 --> 3097.50] Care for -[3097.50 --> 3097.74] Him -[3097.74 --> 3098.30] As they -[3098.30 --> 3100.24] Try to -[3100.24 --> 3101.02] Discern how -[3101.02 --> 3101.54] Best to -[3101.54 --> 3102.14] Provide for -[3102.14 --> 3102.38] Him -[3102.38 --> 3102.92] And Lord -[3102.92 --> 3103.34] God we -[3103.34 --> 3103.74] Pray that -[3103.74 --> 3104.16] You would -[3104.16 --> 3104.74] Provide -[3104.74 --> 3105.68] For them -[3105.68 --> 3108.20] Continue in -[3108.20 --> 3108.62] Prayer for -[3108.62 --> 3109.00] Martin -[3109.00 --> 3109.88] Karen's -[3109.88 --> 3110.48] Dad who -[3110.48 --> 3111.54] Remains in -[3111.54 --> 3112.30] The ICU -[3112.30 --> 3113.06] On life -[3113.06 --> 3113.46] Support -[3113.46 --> 3115.04] God this -[3115.04 --> 3115.38] Week they -[3115.38 --> 3115.68] Made some -[3115.68 --> 3116.20] Adjustments -[3116.20 --> 3117.00] To his -[3117.00 --> 3118.54] Ventilator -[3118.54 --> 3119.48] So that he -[3119.48 --> 3119.90] Can breathe -[3119.90 --> 3120.36] A little bit -[3120.36 --> 3120.62] On his -[3120.62 --> 3121.04] Own and -[3121.04 --> 3121.34] To see -[3121.34 --> 3121.68] How he -[3121.68 --> 3122.04] Handles -[3122.04 --> 3122.52] That and -[3122.52 --> 3122.86] So we -[3122.86 --> 3123.42] Pray that -[3123.42 --> 3125.34] You would -[3125.34 --> 3126.32] Work in -[3126.32 --> 3126.90] The midst -[3126.90 --> 3127.66] Of these -[3127.66 --> 3128.64] Changes and -[3128.64 --> 3129.24] Adjustments -[3129.24 --> 3129.64] That you -[3129.64 --> 3130.60] Would bring -[3130.60 --> 3131.66] Healing to -[3131.66 --> 3131.86] Him -[3131.86 --> 3133.40] We know -[3133.40 --> 3133.82] To God -[3133.82 --> 3134.04] That he -[3134.04 --> 3134.38] Is on -[3134.38 --> 3135.38] Dialysis to -[3135.38 --> 3135.70] Give his -[3135.70 --> 3136.34] Kidneys a -[3136.34 --> 3137.66] Break and -[3137.66 --> 3137.96] So we -[3137.96 --> 3138.48] Pray that -[3138.48 --> 3140.14] In this -[3140.14 --> 3141.60] Opportunity to -[3141.60 --> 3142.78] Rest parts -[3142.78 --> 3143.18] Of his -[3143.18 --> 3143.72] Body you -[3143.72 --> 3144.38] Would restore -[3144.38 --> 3145.04] The rest -[3145.04 --> 3145.72] Of his -[3145.72 --> 3146.18] Body and -[3146.18 --> 3146.68] So bring -[3146.68 --> 3148.20] Healing to -[3148.20 --> 3148.42] Him -[3148.42 --> 3151.40] Lord God -[3151.40 --> 3151.72] On and -[3151.72 --> 3152.12] On this -[3152.12 --> 3152.94] List goes -[3152.94 --> 3153.56] We pray -[3153.56 --> 3154.56] For the -[3154.56 --> 3155.26] Spa family -[3155.26 --> 3156.00] As they -[3156.00 --> 3156.52] Remembered -[3156.52 --> 3156.86] Deb's -[3156.86 --> 3157.64] Life yesterday -[3157.64 --> 3158.62] We pray -[3158.62 --> 3159.12] For Peter -[3159.12 --> 3159.66] And for -[3159.66 --> 3160.20] Their kids -[3160.20 --> 3161.46] Along with -[3161.46 --> 3161.76] Peter's -[3161.76 --> 3162.24] Parents who -[3162.24 --> 3162.56] Are still -[3162.56 --> 3163.38] Dealing with -[3163.38 --> 3163.94] COVID -[3163.94 --> 3165.22] We pray -[3165.22 --> 3165.70] Lord God -[3165.70 --> 3166.20] In the -[3166.20 --> 3166.74] Midst of -[3166.74 --> 3167.14] This -[3167.14 --> 3168.64] Turmoil -[3168.64 --> 3169.54] Heartbreak -[3169.54 --> 3169.88] In the -[3169.88 --> 3170.26] Midst of -[3170.26 --> 3170.54] This -[3170.54 --> 3171.08] Chaos -[3171.08 --> 3172.46] That you -[3172.46 --> 3173.24] Would enter -[3173.24 --> 3174.02] In and -[3174.02 --> 3174.66] Provide -[3174.66 --> 3175.56] Peace -[3175.56 --> 3177.80] God we -[3177.80 --> 3178.22] Heard this -[3178.22 --> 3178.72] Week about -[3178.72 --> 3179.36] A change -[3179.36 --> 3180.84] To that -[3180.84 --> 3181.42] Impacts many -[3181.42 --> 3181.68] Of our -[3181.68 --> 3182.28] Kids in -[3182.28 --> 3182.68] School -[3182.68 --> 3184.46] As a -[3184.46 --> 3185.04] Response -[3185.04 --> 3185.72] Again another -[3185.72 --> 3186.38] Measure in -[3186.38 --> 3187.64] Trying to -[3187.64 --> 3188.40] Keep the -[3188.40 --> 3189.34] Full effects -[3189.34 --> 3190.18] Of COVID -[3190.18 --> 3190.70] At bay -[3190.70 --> 3191.64] And so we -[3191.64 --> 3192.04] Pray for -[3192.04 --> 3192.54] Our kids -[3192.54 --> 3192.98] And we -[3192.98 --> 3193.32] Pray for -[3193.32 --> 3193.94] Our families -[3193.94 --> 3194.32] As we -[3194.32 --> 3194.78] Now have -[3194.78 --> 3195.44] To navigate -[3195.44 --> 3197.06] New realities -[3197.06 --> 3198.32] We pray -[3198.32 --> 3198.84] Lord God -[3198.84 --> 3199.16] For an -[3199.16 --> 3199.68] Abundance -[3199.68 --> 3200.08] Of your -[3200.08 --> 3200.54] Peace -[3200.54 --> 3200.92] In the -[3200.92 --> 3201.30] Midst of -[3201.30 --> 3201.48] This -[3201.48 --> 3201.82] Time -[3201.82 --> 3202.80] And we -[3202.80 --> 3203.26] Pray that -[3203.26 --> 3203.72] We would -[3203.72 --> 3204.14] Be a -[3204.14 --> 3204.46] People -[3204.46 --> 3205.68] Of grace -[3205.68 --> 3207.22] That we -[3207.22 --> 3207.46] Would be -[3207.46 --> 3207.90] A people -[3207.90 --> 3209.20] Who live -[3209.20 --> 3210.18] In love -[3210.18 --> 3210.76] For one -[3210.76 --> 3211.04] Another -[3211.04 --> 3212.82] And that -[3212.82 --> 3213.38] Our hearts -[3213.38 --> 3213.90] Would really -[3213.90 --> 3214.88] Be as -[3214.88 --> 3215.36] Your heart -[3215.36 --> 3215.82] Is Lord -[3215.82 --> 3216.16] Jesus -[3216.16 --> 3216.90] For the -[3216.90 --> 3217.16] Other -[3217.16 --> 3221.06] Lord God -[3221.06 --> 3221.40] We know -[3221.40 --> 3222.02] Too that -[3222.02 --> 3222.96] It's not -[3222.96 --> 3223.72] Just COVID -[3223.72 --> 3224.20] But that -[3224.20 --> 3224.46] There are -[3224.46 --> 3224.86] So many -[3224.86 --> 3225.22] Others -[3225.22 --> 3226.00] Who are -[3226.00 --> 3226.22] In the -[3226.22 --> 3226.56] Midst of -[3226.56 --> 3227.08] Treatments -[3227.08 --> 3227.56] Or in -[3227.56 --> 3227.68] The -[3227.68 --> 3228.14] Midst of -[3228.14 --> 3228.88] Waiting -[3228.88 --> 3229.68] For surgeries -[3229.68 --> 3230.32] Or needing -[3230.32 --> 3231.06] Health care -[3231.06 --> 3231.38] And your -[3231.38 --> 3231.78] Provision -[3231.78 --> 3233.70] We continue -[3233.70 --> 3234.10] In prayer -[3234.10 --> 3234.66] For Bob -[3234.66 --> 3235.16] Who has -[3235.16 --> 3236.12] Finished his -[3236.12 --> 3236.54] Treatments -[3236.54 --> 3236.98] But is now -[3236.98 --> 3237.58] Waiting to -[3237.58 --> 3238.12] See what -[3238.12 --> 3238.50] The full -[3238.50 --> 3239.20] Impact of -[3239.20 --> 3239.66] That was -[3239.66 --> 3240.12] Waiting for -[3240.12 --> 3241.48] Those results -[3241.48 --> 3242.62] And to -[3242.62 --> 3242.96] Make a -[3242.96 --> 3243.50] Plan for -[3243.50 --> 3244.14] Going forward -[3244.14 --> 3244.62] And so -[3244.62 --> 3246.02] Continue to -[3246.02 --> 3246.58] Be with -[3246.58 --> 3246.84] Him -[3246.84 --> 3249.00] Lord God -[3249.00 --> 3249.96] May the -[3249.96 --> 3250.62] Plans going -[3250.62 --> 3251.22] Forward be -[3251.22 --> 3252.52] Ones that -[3252.52 --> 3253.50] Are we -[3253.50 --> 3253.82] Are full -[3253.82 --> 3254.48] Of confidence -[3254.48 --> 3255.24] In with -[3255.24 --> 3256.30] Him because -[3256.30 --> 3256.56] We have -[3256.56 --> 3256.98] Seen you -[3256.98 --> 3257.52] At work -[3257.52 --> 3257.88] In the -[3257.88 --> 3258.22] Midst of -[3258.22 --> 3258.54] All of -[3258.54 --> 3258.80] This -[3258.80 --> 3260.52] Similarly -[3260.52 --> 3261.02] We pray -[3261.02 --> 3261.48] For Willie -[3261.48 --> 3262.08] Who also -[3262.08 --> 3262.74] Has ongoing -[3262.74 --> 3263.26] Treatments -[3263.26 --> 3263.68] And tests -[3263.68 --> 3263.96] And we -[3263.96 --> 3264.20] Pray that -[3264.20 --> 3264.38] You would -[3264.38 --> 3265.32] Help his -[3265.32 --> 3265.74] Lungs -[3265.74 --> 3267.24] And allow -[3267.24 --> 3268.10] Him to -[3268.10 --> 3268.78] Breathe -[3268.78 --> 3269.26] Well -[3269.26 --> 3270.10] Give him -[3270.10 --> 3270.64] The rest -[3270.64 --> 3271.48] That he -[3271.48 --> 3271.96] Needs -[3271.96 --> 3272.72] In order -[3272.72 --> 3273.42] To endure -[3273.42 --> 3273.92] With -[3273.92 --> 3274.80] Perseverance -[3274.80 --> 3275.50] And patience -[3275.50 --> 3276.32] All that -[3276.32 --> 3276.70] Is yet -[3276.70 --> 3277.32] Before him -[3277.32 --> 3279.32] We pray -[3279.32 --> 3279.78] To for -[3279.78 --> 3280.18] Benita -[3280.18 --> 3280.72] And for -[3280.72 --> 3281.08] Emo -[3281.08 --> 3281.80] And we -[3281.80 --> 3282.32] Ask there -[3282.32 --> 3282.90] To God -[3282.90 --> 3283.20] That you -[3283.20 --> 3283.58] Would bring -[3283.58 --> 3283.96] Healing -[3283.96 --> 3284.26] That you -[3284.26 --> 3284.52] Would put -[3284.52 --> 3284.88] A hand -[3284.88 --> 3285.96] Of protection -[3285.96 --> 3286.68] Over them -[3286.68 --> 3287.04] And that you -[3287.04 --> 3287.70] Would restore -[3287.70 --> 3288.14] Benita -[3288.14 --> 3288.76] And give her -[3288.76 --> 3289.20] What she -[3289.20 --> 3289.48] Needs -[3289.48 --> 3289.86] That she -[3289.86 --> 3290.28] Would know -[3290.28 --> 3290.76] Peace -[3290.76 --> 3294.18] God -[3294.18 --> 3294.32] God we -[3294.32 --> 3294.62] Know that -[3294.62 --> 3294.90] There are -[3294.90 --> 3295.28] Others -[3295.28 --> 3295.92] Whom we -[3295.92 --> 3296.28] Have not -[3296.28 --> 3296.66] Named -[3296.66 --> 3297.74] We know -[3297.74 --> 3298.00] That there -[3298.00 --> 3298.34] Are others -[3298.34 --> 3298.90] Who wish -[3298.90 --> 3299.52] To remain -[3299.52 --> 3300.04] Anonymous -[3300.04 --> 3301.40] And so -[3301.40 --> 3301.96] We pray -[3301.96 --> 3303.08] For all -[3303.08 --> 3303.80] Lord God -[3303.80 --> 3304.36] Who need -[3304.36 --> 3304.72] Your -[3304.72 --> 3305.56] Healing -[3305.56 --> 3306.28] Move -[3306.28 --> 3306.70] In -[3306.70 --> 3307.78] Power -[3307.78 --> 3308.40] Move -[3308.40 --> 3309.28] In response -[3309.28 --> 3309.64] To the -[3309.64 --> 3310.16] Prayers -[3310.16 --> 3311.08] Of your -[3311.08 --> 3311.62] Church -[3311.62 --> 3312.52] And bring -[3312.52 --> 3313.84] Healing -[3313.84 --> 3315.26] In Jesus -[3315.26 --> 3315.80] Name -[3315.80 --> 3316.74] We pray -[3316.74 --> 3319.48] Forgive us -[3319.48 --> 3319.94] Our debts -[3319.94 --> 3320.60] As we -[3320.60 --> 3320.92] Have also -[3320.92 --> 3321.26] Forgiven -[3321.26 --> 3321.86] Our debtors -[3321.86 --> 3324.46] Father God -[3324.46 --> 3325.44] This past -[3325.44 --> 3325.98] Week we -[3325.98 --> 3326.42] Did -[3326.42 --> 3328.18] Commemorate -[3328.18 --> 3328.84] The first -[3328.84 --> 3329.40] National -[3329.40 --> 3329.90] Day for -[3329.90 --> 3330.46] Truth and -[3330.46 --> 3331.24] Reconciliation -[3331.24 --> 3332.54] And may -[3332.54 --> 3332.94] We as -[3332.94 --> 3333.52] Your church -[3333.52 --> 3334.20] As Christians -[3334.20 --> 3334.64] In the -[3334.64 --> 3334.90] World -[3334.90 --> 3335.36] Be the -[3335.36 --> 3335.90] First -[3335.90 --> 3336.98] To walk -[3336.98 --> 3337.64] Into the -[3337.64 --> 3338.18] Valley of -[3338.18 --> 3338.60] The shadow -[3338.60 --> 3339.12] Of death -[3339.12 --> 3339.78] With others -[3339.78 --> 3340.90] May we -[3340.90 --> 3341.32] Be the -[3341.32 --> 3341.66] First -[3341.66 --> 3342.24] To walk -[3342.24 --> 3342.80] Into the -[3342.80 --> 3343.08] Valley -[3343.08 --> 3343.70] Precisely -[3343.70 --> 3344.34] Because we -[3344.34 --> 3345.12] Know exactly -[3345.12 --> 3345.54] What it -[3345.54 --> 3346.30] Takes to -[3346.30 --> 3346.86] Walk out -[3346.86 --> 3347.24] Of the -[3347.24 --> 3347.48] Valley -[3347.48 --> 3348.04] Because we -[3348.04 --> 3348.58] Have seen -[3348.58 --> 3349.32] The empty -[3349.32 --> 3349.66] Tomb -[3349.66 --> 3350.36] We have -[3350.36 --> 3350.96] Seen the -[3350.96 --> 3351.24] Risen -[3351.24 --> 3351.90] Savior -[3351.90 --> 3352.82] We know -[3352.82 --> 3353.74] That in -[3353.74 --> 3354.90] Jesus Christ -[3354.90 --> 3355.48] There is -[3355.48 --> 3356.26] No fear -[3356.26 --> 3356.90] Of death -[3356.90 --> 3357.26] And there -[3357.26 --> 3357.96] Is victory -[3357.96 --> 3358.94] Over all -[3358.94 --> 3359.22] Sin -[3359.22 --> 3359.60] That we -[3359.60 --> 3360.14] Are no -[3360.14 --> 3360.86] Longer -[3360.86 --> 3361.90] Slaves -[3361.90 --> 3362.22] But we -[3362.22 --> 3362.46] Have been -[3362.46 --> 3363.06] Raised -[3363.06 --> 3364.56] To newness -[3364.56 --> 3365.78] Of life -[3365.78 --> 3366.38] And so -[3366.38 --> 3367.18] Lord God -[3367.18 --> 3367.70] May we -[3367.70 --> 3368.86] Not fear -[3368.86 --> 3370.04] The past -[3370.04 --> 3370.78] Or -[3370.78 --> 3371.68] History -[3371.68 --> 3374.10] And may -[3374.10 --> 3374.26] We -[3374.26 --> 3374.86] Not repeat -[3374.86 --> 3375.14] It -[3375.14 --> 3377.16] May we -[3377.16 --> 3377.50] Not be -[3377.50 --> 3378.36] Part of -[3378.36 --> 3379.30] Perpetuating -[3379.30 --> 3379.88] Those -[3379.88 --> 3380.72] Attitudes -[3380.72 --> 3383.00] That led -[3383.00 --> 3384.12] To such -[3384.12 --> 3385.26] Evils -[3385.26 --> 3386.14] Taking -[3386.14 --> 3386.60] Place -[3386.60 --> 3389.10] And so -[3389.10 --> 3389.38] God -[3389.38 --> 3389.84] Use -[3389.84 --> 3390.82] Us -[3390.82 --> 3392.98] To bring -[3392.98 --> 3393.88] Healing -[3393.88 --> 3395.44] Use -[3395.44 --> 3395.90] Us -[3395.90 --> 3396.60] To bring -[3396.60 --> 3397.50] The truth -[3397.50 --> 3398.36] The gospel -[3398.36 --> 3399.42] Of Jesus -[3399.42 --> 3401.40] Lead us -[3401.40 --> 3401.98] Not into -[3401.98 --> 3402.70] Temptation -[3402.70 --> 3403.46] But deliver -[3403.46 --> 3404.00] Us -[3404.00 --> 3405.02] From evil -[3405.02 --> 3406.68] We rely -[3406.68 --> 3407.14] On your -[3407.14 --> 3407.60] Spirit -[3407.60 --> 3408.06] And on -[3408.06 --> 3408.62] Your word -[3408.62 --> 3409.54] To transform -[3409.54 --> 3410.16] Us now -[3410.16 --> 3410.64] And so -[3410.64 --> 3411.06] We pray -[3411.06 --> 3411.52] For Pastor -[3411.52 --> 3411.84] Kevin -[3411.84 --> 3412.48] As he -[3412.48 --> 3412.86] Opens -[3412.86 --> 3413.30] That word -[3413.30 --> 3413.78] For us -[3413.78 --> 3415.42] Give him -[3415.42 --> 3415.76] What he -[3415.76 --> 3416.14] Needs -[3416.14 --> 3417.70] And in -[3417.70 --> 3418.54] His words -[3418.54 --> 3419.10] May we -[3419.10 --> 3419.54] Hear -[3419.54 --> 3420.40] The voice -[3420.40 --> 3420.96] Of Jesus -[3420.96 --> 3421.56] Speaking -[3421.56 --> 3422.26] Life -[3422.26 --> 3423.38] To our -[3423.38 --> 3423.86] Souls -[3423.86 --> 3425.48] We pray -[3425.48 --> 3426.08] This in -[3426.08 --> 3426.46] The name -[3426.46 --> 3427.02] Of Jesus -[3427.02 --> 3427.64] Christ -[3427.64 --> 3428.40] Alone -[3428.40 --> 3429.86] Amen -[3429.86 --> 3451.82] Today we're -[3451.82 --> 3452.04] Going to -[3452.04 --> 3452.34] Start -[3452.34 --> 3453.08] Wow -[3453.08 --> 3453.42] There's -[3453.42 --> 3453.60] My -[3453.60 --> 3454.02] Voice -[3454.02 --> 3455.96] Today -[3455.96 --> 3456.54] We're -[3456.54 --> 3456.72] Going to -[3456.72 --> 3457.00] Start -[3457.00 --> 3457.60] A new -[3457.60 --> 3458.48] Sermon -[3458.48 --> 3458.86] Series -[3458.86 --> 3459.28] On -[3459.28 --> 3459.78] First -[3459.78 --> 3460.22] Peter -[3460.22 --> 3460.48] And it's -[3460.48 --> 3460.90] My pleasure -[3460.90 --> 3461.36] To be -[3461.36 --> 3462.44] Kicking that -[3462.44 --> 3463.00] Off with -[3463.00 --> 3463.32] You today -[3463.32 --> 3463.66] Right off -[3463.66 --> 3464.02] The bat -[3464.02 --> 3464.26] Though -[3464.26 --> 3464.94] I want -[3464.94 --> 3465.40] To mention -[3465.40 --> 3466.38] That we -[3466.38 --> 3467.00] Have this -[3467.00 --> 3468.12] Bible study -[3468.12 --> 3468.80] Here -[3468.80 --> 3469.42] And it is -[3469.42 --> 3470.62] Available to -[3470.62 --> 3470.94] You to -[3470.94 --> 3471.40] Go along -[3471.40 --> 3471.90] With this -[3471.90 --> 3472.22] Series -[3472.22 --> 3473.44] Pastor Chris -[3473.44 --> 3473.84] And a bunch -[3473.84 --> 3474.08] Of his -[3474.08 --> 3474.76] Pastor buddies -[3474.76 --> 3475.76] Wrote it -[3475.76 --> 3476.14] And it's -[3476.14 --> 3476.90] Available to -[3476.90 --> 3477.26] You if -[3477.26 --> 3477.64] You like -[3477.64 --> 3477.88] I know -[3477.88 --> 3478.40] Coffee break -[3478.40 --> 3478.66] Is going -[3478.66 --> 3478.80] To be -[3478.80 --> 3479.26] Using that -[3479.26 --> 3479.80] This year -[3479.80 --> 3480.64] But maybe -[3480.64 --> 3480.98] Your care -[3480.98 --> 3481.26] Group's -[3481.26 --> 3481.62] Looking for -[3481.62 --> 3482.08] Something to -[3482.08 --> 3482.62] Go through -[3482.62 --> 3483.46] Or perhaps -[3483.46 --> 3483.76] You're just -[3483.76 --> 3484.14] Looking for -[3484.14 --> 3484.96] Something for -[3484.96 --> 3485.52] Your own -[3485.52 --> 3486.34] Studies -[3486.34 --> 3486.76] Your own -[3486.76 --> 3487.36] Devotions -[3487.36 --> 3488.34] And this -[3488.34 --> 3488.66] Would be a -[3488.66 --> 3489.66] Perfect thing -[3489.78 --> 3490.18] Come chat -[3490.18 --> 3490.54] With Pastor -[3490.54 --> 3490.86] Chris or -[3490.86 --> 3491.20] Myself -[3491.20 --> 3491.44] And we -[3491.44 --> 3492.14] Will set -[3492.14 --> 3492.36] You up -[3492.36 --> 3492.58] With that -[3492.58 --> 3492.98] It is a -[3492.98 --> 3493.20] Little bit -[3493.20 --> 3493.50] Good to -[3493.50 --> 3493.88] Note though -[3493.88 --> 3494.28] That this -[3494.28 --> 3494.96] Study isn't -[3494.96 --> 3495.28] Going to -[3495.28 --> 3496.36] Line up -[3496.36 --> 3496.92] Perfectly -[3496.92 --> 3497.22] With the -[3497.22 --> 3497.50] Sermon -[3497.50 --> 3497.86] Series -[3497.86 --> 3498.42] It's not -[3498.42 --> 3498.68] Like we're -[3498.68 --> 3498.76] Going to -[3498.76 --> 3499.12] Be preaching -[3499.12 --> 3499.64] On something -[3499.64 --> 3499.96] And then -[3499.96 --> 3500.18] There's going -[3500.18 --> 3500.40] To be a -[3500.40 --> 3500.98] Big breakdown -[3500.98 --> 3501.36] Of that -[3501.36 --> 3501.70] Sermon -[3501.70 --> 3502.14] In this -[3502.14 --> 3503.74] It's also -[3503.74 --> 3504.42] Not necessary -[3504.42 --> 3505.08] To use -[3505.08 --> 3505.60] The sermons -[3505.60 --> 3506.52] Sorry to -[3506.52 --> 3507.02] Use this -[3507.02 --> 3507.80] Bible study -[3507.80 --> 3508.84] To understand -[3508.84 --> 3509.24] The sermon -[3509.24 --> 3509.70] Series -[3509.70 --> 3511.30] And yet -[3511.30 --> 3512.26] Consider it -[3512.26 --> 3512.62] Sort of -[3512.62 --> 3513.88] An avenue -[3513.88 --> 3514.34] That will let -[3514.34 --> 3514.76] You dig -[3514.76 --> 3515.26] Into -[3515.26 --> 3515.84] First Peter -[3515.84 --> 3516.34] A little bit -[3516.34 --> 3516.82] Deeper -[3516.82 --> 3517.04] So that -[3517.04 --> 3517.30] You're not -[3517.30 --> 3517.54] Only going -[3517.54 --> 3517.70] To be -[3517.70 --> 3517.98] Hearing -[3517.98 --> 3518.38] About it -[3518.38 --> 3518.90] On Sundays -[3518.90 --> 3519.64] But you -[3519.64 --> 3520.08] Can engage -[3520.08 --> 3520.42] It in -[3520.42 --> 3520.88] Multiple -[3520.88 --> 3521.16] Ways -[3521.16 --> 3521.58] So consider -[3521.58 --> 3521.86] That -[3521.86 --> 3522.82] Your not -[3522.82 --> 3523.44] So subtle -[3523.44 --> 3523.76] Plug -[3523.76 --> 3524.70] Also it's -[3524.70 --> 3524.92] Free -[3524.92 --> 3526.56] So I -[3526.56 --> 3526.84] Just saw -[3526.84 --> 3527.22] Like a dozen -[3527.22 --> 3527.74] Heads pop -[3527.74 --> 3528.00] Up and -[3528.00 --> 3528.14] They're like -[3528.14 --> 3528.52] Oh free -[3528.52 --> 3528.74] Yeah -[3528.74 --> 3529.04] No I -[3529.04 --> 3529.54] Should have -[3529.54 --> 3529.82] Led with -[3529.82 --> 3530.10] That I -[3530.10 --> 3530.32] Guess -[3530.32 --> 3531.22] I didn't -[3531.22 --> 3531.48] Need the -[3531.48 --> 3532.14] Long preamble -[3532.14 --> 3532.60] But it's -[3532.60 --> 3532.84] A free -[3532.84 --> 3533.12] Book -[3533.12 --> 3533.72] So grab -[3533.72 --> 3533.94] It -[3533.94 --> 3535.02] And use -[3535.02 --> 3535.58] It at -[3535.58 --> 3536.52] Your -[3536.52 --> 3537.18] Discretion -[3537.18 --> 3537.36] And your -[3537.36 --> 3537.52] Will -[3537.52 --> 3538.66] So we're -[3538.66 --> 3538.72] Going to -[3538.72 --> 3539.14] Start this -[3539.14 --> 3539.48] Sermon -[3539.48 --> 3540.16] Series off -[3540.16 --> 3540.44] Right where -[3540.44 --> 3540.62] You'd -[3540.62 --> 3540.98] Expect -[3540.98 --> 3541.42] Chapter -[3541.42 --> 3541.74] One -[3541.74 --> 3542.48] We're -[3547.04 --> 3547.34] Of today -[3547.34 --> 3547.66] Is a bit -[3547.66 --> 3547.90] Of an -[3547.90 --> 3548.68] Overview -[3548.68 --> 3549.20] Of the -[3549.20 --> 3550.08] Whole book -[3550.08 --> 3550.54] Of first -[3550.54 --> 3550.88] Peter -[3550.88 --> 3551.30] And so the -[3551.30 --> 3551.68] Sermon's -[3551.68 --> 3551.90] Going to -[3551.90 --> 3552.52] Follow suit -[3552.52 --> 3553.00] Just a -[3553.00 --> 3553.50] Little bit -[3553.50 --> 3554.36] The goal -[3554.36 --> 3554.76] For today -[3554.76 --> 3555.14] Is to get -[3555.14 --> 3555.94] An understanding -[3555.94 --> 3556.50] Of a number -[3556.50 --> 3557.00] Of questions -[3557.00 --> 3557.68] To figure out -[3557.68 --> 3558.62] Who Peter -[3558.62 --> 3559.20] Is writing -[3559.20 --> 3559.76] To what -[3559.76 --> 3560.42] He's writing -[3560.42 --> 3561.24] About and -[3561.24 --> 3561.98] What we -[3561.98 --> 3562.72] Can expect -[3562.72 --> 3563.56] To hear -[3563.56 --> 3564.02] Over the -[3564.02 --> 3564.62] Coming weeks -[3564.62 --> 3565.24] As we dig -[3565.24 --> 3565.90] Into this -[3565.90 --> 3566.82] Book a -[3566.82 --> 3567.32] Lot further -[3567.32 --> 3567.92] And I'm -[3567.92 --> 3568.08] Going to -[3568.08 --> 3568.40] Do my -[3568.40 --> 3568.82] Darnedest -[3568.82 --> 3569.32] To try to -[3569.32 --> 3569.48] Beat -[3569.48 --> 3570.06] Pastor Chris -[3570.06 --> 3570.88] Record time -[3570.88 --> 3571.48] Of 42 -[3571.48 --> 3571.86] Minutes -[3571.86 --> 3572.08] That he -[3572.08 --> 3572.54] Accomplished -[3572.54 --> 3573.10] Last week -[3573.10 --> 3574.24] So I -[3574.24 --> 3574.50] May be -[3574.50 --> 3574.86] Slow at -[3574.86 --> 3575.88] Editing -[3575.88 --> 3576.52] Video but -[3576.52 --> 3577.06] We'll see -[3577.06 --> 3577.62] About preaching -[3577.62 --> 3579.46] Pull out -[3579.46 --> 3579.80] Your bibles -[3579.80 --> 3580.20] With me -[3580.20 --> 3580.78] Turn to -[3580.78 --> 3581.32] First Peter -[3581.32 --> 3582.32] And please -[3582.32 --> 3583.10] Follow along -[3583.10 --> 3583.70] First Peter -[3583.70 --> 3584.82] One verses -[3584.82 --> 3585.26] One to -[3585.26 --> 3586.58] Nine and -[3586.58 --> 3586.94] It's there -[3586.94 --> 3587.32] We read -[3587.32 --> 3587.60] This -[3587.60 --> 3589.62] Peter an -[3589.62 --> 3590.18] Apostle -[3590.18 --> 3590.76] Of Jesus -[3590.76 --> 3591.28] Christ -[3591.28 --> 3592.58] To God's -[3592.58 --> 3593.58] Elect exile -[3593.58 --> 3594.12] Scattered -[3594.12 --> 3594.84] Throughout the -[3594.84 --> 3595.74] Provinces of -[3595.74 --> 3596.24] Pontus -[3596.24 --> 3596.92] Galatia -[3596.92 --> 3597.94] Cappadocia -[3597.94 --> 3598.48] Asia -[3598.48 --> 3598.98] And -[3598.98 --> 3600.60] Bithentia -[3600.60 --> 3601.18] Nailed it -[3601.18 --> 3601.92] Who have -[3601.92 --> 3602.56] Been chosen -[3602.56 --> 3603.42] According to -[3603.42 --> 3604.28] The foreknowledge -[3604.28 --> 3604.92] Of God the -[3604.92 --> 3605.26] Father -[3605.26 --> 3606.26] Through the -[3606.26 --> 3606.88] Sanctifying -[3606.88 --> 3607.34] Work of -[3607.34 --> 3607.82] The spirit -[3607.82 --> 3608.34] To be -[3608.34 --> 3609.02] Obedient -[3609.02 --> 3609.70] To Jesus -[3609.70 --> 3611.02] And sprinkled -[3611.02 --> 3611.48] With his -[3611.48 --> 3611.78] Blood -[3611.78 --> 3613.14] Grace and -[3613.14 --> 3613.80] Peace be -[3613.80 --> 3614.56] Yours in -[3614.56 --> 3615.22] Abundance -[3615.22 --> 3616.58] Praise be -[3616.58 --> 3616.92] To the -[3616.92 --> 3617.42] God and -[3617.42 --> 3617.90] Father of -[3617.90 --> 3618.56] Our Lord -[3618.56 --> 3619.52] Jesus Christ -[3619.52 --> 3620.32] In his -[3620.32 --> 3621.08] Great mercy -[3621.08 --> 3621.52] He has -[3621.52 --> 3622.00] Given us -[3622.00 --> 3622.50] New birth -[3622.50 --> 3623.04] Into a -[3623.04 --> 3623.62] Living hope -[3623.62 --> 3624.24] Through the -[3624.24 --> 3624.80] Resurrection -[3624.80 --> 3625.26] Of Jesus -[3625.26 --> 3625.84] Christ from -[3625.84 --> 3626.20] The dead -[3626.20 --> 3627.02] And into -[3627.02 --> 3627.18] An -[3627.18 --> 3627.86] Inheritance -[3627.86 --> 3628.24] That can -[3628.24 --> 3628.48] Never -[3628.48 --> 3629.00] Perish -[3629.00 --> 3630.00] Foil -[3630.00 --> 3630.98] Or fade -[3630.98 --> 3631.80] This -[3631.80 --> 3632.56] Inheritance -[3632.56 --> 3633.08] Is kept -[3633.08 --> 3633.60] In heaven -[3633.60 --> 3634.42] For you -[3634.42 --> 3635.32] Who through -[3635.32 --> 3635.86] Faith are -[3635.86 --> 3636.48] Shielded by -[3636.48 --> 3636.90] God's -[3636.90 --> 3637.26] Power -[3637.26 --> 3637.80] Until the -[3637.80 --> 3638.26] Coming of -[3638.26 --> 3638.84] The salvation -[3638.84 --> 3639.62] That is -[3639.62 --> 3640.24] Ready to be -[3640.24 --> 3640.78] Revealed -[3640.78 --> 3641.62] In the -[3641.62 --> 3642.00] Last -[3642.00 --> 3642.52] Time -[3642.52 --> 3644.18] In all -[3644.18 --> 3644.76] This you -[3644.76 --> 3645.20] Greatly -[3645.20 --> 3645.80] Rejoice -[3645.80 --> 3646.78] Though now -[3646.78 --> 3647.20] For a little -[3647.20 --> 3647.72] While you -[3647.72 --> 3648.04] May have -[3648.04 --> 3648.46] Had to -[3648.46 --> 3648.80] Suffer -[3648.80 --> 3649.20] Grief -[3649.20 --> 3649.80] In all -[3649.80 --> 3649.82] In all -[3649.82 --> 3650.36] Kinds -[3650.36 --> 3651.40] Trials -[3651.40 --> 3653.46] These have -[3653.46 --> 3653.92] Come so -[3653.92 --> 3654.14] That the -[3654.14 --> 3654.48] Proven -[3654.48 --> 3655.16] Genuineness -[3655.16 --> 3655.40] Of your -[3655.40 --> 3655.74] Faith -[3655.74 --> 3656.34] Of greater -[3656.34 --> 3656.74] Worth -[3656.74 --> 3657.38] Than gold -[3657.38 --> 3658.14] Which perishes -[3658.14 --> 3658.74] Even though -[3658.74 --> 3659.38] Refined by -[3659.38 --> 3659.74] Fire -[3659.74 --> 3661.56] May result -[3661.56 --> 3662.26] In praise -[3662.26 --> 3662.82] Glory -[3662.82 --> 3663.64] And honor -[3663.64 --> 3664.54] When Jesus -[3664.54 --> 3665.02] Christ -[3665.02 --> 3665.68] Is revealed -[3665.68 --> 3667.22] Though you -[3667.22 --> 3667.70] Have not -[3667.70 --> 3668.40] Seen him -[3668.40 --> 3669.66] You love -[3669.66 --> 3669.96] Him -[3669.96 --> 3670.88] And even -[3670.88 --> 3671.18] Though you -[3671.18 --> 3671.56] Do not -[3671.56 --> 3671.98] See him -[3671.98 --> 3672.46] Now -[3672.46 --> 3673.34] You believe -[3673.34 --> 3673.70] In him -[3673.70 --> 3673.96] And are -[3673.96 --> 3674.52] Filled with -[3674.52 --> 3675.80] An inexpressible -[3675.80 --> 3676.94] And glorious -[3676.94 --> 3677.44] Joy -[3677.44 --> 3678.48] For you -[3678.48 --> 3679.08] Are -[3679.08 --> 3679.94] Receiving -[3679.94 --> 3680.76] The end -[3680.76 --> 3681.14] Result -[3681.14 --> 3681.44] Of your -[3681.44 --> 3681.76] Faith -[3681.76 --> 3683.26] The salvation -[3683.26 --> 3684.46] Of your -[3684.46 --> 3684.78] Soul -[3684.78 --> 3686.40] The word -[3686.40 --> 3686.56] Of the -[3686.56 --> 3686.74] Lord -[3686.74 --> 3689.36] Now -[3689.36 --> 3690.54] Almost every -[3690.54 --> 3691.30] Time you -[3691.30 --> 3691.94] Open up a -[3691.94 --> 3692.34] New book -[3692.34 --> 3692.68] Of the -[3692.68 --> 3693.14] Bible -[3693.14 --> 3693.96] Whether it's -[3693.96 --> 3694.24] For a -[3694.24 --> 3694.82] Bible study -[3694.82 --> 3695.12] Or for -[3695.12 --> 3695.66] Another reason -[3695.66 --> 3696.14] The first -[3696.14 --> 3696.84] Questions we -[3696.84 --> 3697.14] Need to -[3697.14 --> 3697.54] Ask -[3697.54 --> 3698.78] Are these -[3698.78 --> 3699.12] Who -[3699.12 --> 3699.62] Was writing -[3699.62 --> 3699.96] This -[3699.96 --> 3701.42] When was -[3701.42 --> 3701.62] This -[3701.62 --> 3701.98] Written -[3701.98 --> 3702.34] And who -[3702.34 --> 3702.68] Were they -[3702.68 --> 3703.24] Writing it -[3703.24 --> 3703.52] To -[3703.52 --> 3704.24] Well we -[3704.24 --> 3704.52] Know the -[3704.52 --> 3705.14] Author -[3705.14 --> 3705.54] Is the -[3705.54 --> 3705.96] Apostle -[3705.96 --> 3706.30] Peter -[3706.30 --> 3706.76] So that -[3706.76 --> 3707.20] Was Jesus -[3707.20 --> 3708.00] Like right -[3708.00 --> 3708.36] Hand -[3708.36 --> 3708.90] Man his -[3708.90 --> 3709.12] Main -[3709.12 --> 3709.64] Disciple -[3709.64 --> 3710.04] From when -[3710.04 --> 3710.28] Jesus -[3710.28 --> 3710.82] Was alive -[3710.82 --> 3711.12] And doing -[3711.12 --> 3711.52] Ministry -[3711.52 --> 3712.18] And it's -[3712.18 --> 3712.76] Believed that -[3712.76 --> 3713.32] This book -[3713.32 --> 3713.94] Itself was -[3713.94 --> 3714.24] Written at -[3714.24 --> 3714.96] About 60 -[3714.96 --> 3715.54] A.D. -[3715.70 --> 3716.36] There about -[3716.36 --> 3717.48] So it's -[3717.48 --> 3717.98] About 30 -[3717.98 --> 3718.76] Years after -[3718.76 --> 3719.38] Jesus has -[3719.38 --> 3719.58] Died -[3719.58 --> 3720.30] 30 years -[3720.30 --> 3720.58] Into -[3720.58 --> 3721.12] Peter's -[3721.12 --> 3721.84] Ministry -[3721.84 --> 3722.18] As a -[3722.18 --> 3722.74] Missionary -[3722.74 --> 3723.38] And a -[3723.38 --> 3723.76] Little bit -[3723.76 --> 3724.10] Before -[3724.10 --> 3724.46] Nero -[3724.46 --> 3725.22] Comes in -[3725.22 --> 3725.38] The -[3725.38 --> 3725.60] Roman -[3725.60 --> 3725.98] Emperor -[3725.98 --> 3726.18] Who -[3726.18 --> 3726.48] Started -[3726.48 --> 3726.84] Really -[3726.84 --> 3727.38] Torturing -[3727.38 --> 3728.06] And doing -[3728.06 --> 3728.34] Bad -[3728.34 --> 3728.72] Things to -[3728.72 --> 3729.04] Christians -[3729.04 --> 3729.52] So there's -[3729.52 --> 3730.18] Persecution -[3730.18 --> 3730.54] But it's -[3730.54 --> 3731.52] Not super -[3731.52 --> 3731.84] Hard -[3731.84 --> 3732.56] Persecution -[3732.56 --> 3732.88] Yet -[3732.88 --> 3734.14] But that's -[3734.14 --> 3734.40] Sort of -[3734.40 --> 3734.96] The time -[3734.96 --> 3735.38] Frame -[3735.38 --> 3736.54] And author -[3736.54 --> 3737.52] Of this -[3737.52 --> 3737.76] Letter -[3737.76 --> 3738.76] But who -[3738.76 --> 3739.22] Is Peter -[3739.22 --> 3739.96] Writing to -[3739.96 --> 3741.38] Well here -[3741.38 --> 3742.34] Peter is -[3742.34 --> 3742.98] Writing to -[3742.98 --> 3744.20] The converted -[3744.20 --> 3744.66] Jewish -[3744.66 --> 3745.18] Community -[3745.18 --> 3745.50] Who are -[3745.50 --> 3745.66] Now -[3745.66 --> 3746.08] Christians -[3746.08 --> 3746.80] So Jews -[3746.80 --> 3747.08] Who have -[3747.08 --> 3747.40] Now -[3747.40 --> 3748.28] Accepted -[3748.28 --> 3748.70] Christ -[3748.70 --> 3749.76] As their -[3749.76 --> 3749.98] Lord -[3749.98 --> 3750.24] But if -[3750.24 --> 3750.54] You read -[3750.54 --> 3751.08] Verse 1 -[3751.08 --> 3751.34] Notice -[3751.34 --> 3751.80] This right -[3751.80 --> 3752.10] Away -[3752.10 --> 3752.86] How does -[3752.86 --> 3753.16] Peter -[3753.16 --> 3753.54] Address -[3753.54 --> 3753.84] Them -[3753.84 --> 3755.30] He -[3755.30 --> 3755.80] Says -[3755.80 --> 3756.82] To those -[3756.82 --> 3757.14] Who are -[3757.14 --> 3757.62] Elect -[3757.62 --> 3758.68] Exiles -[3758.68 --> 3760.14] Of the -[3760.14 --> 3760.42] Roman -[3760.42 --> 3761.30] Or the -[3761.30 --> 3761.54] Reco -[3761.54 --> 3761.82] Roman -[3761.82 --> 3762.24] Empire -[3762.24 --> 3762.92] Some cities -[3762.92 --> 3763.22] One of -[3763.22 --> 3763.42] Them I -[3763.42 --> 3763.64] Couldn't -[3763.64 --> 3763.92] Pronounce -[3763.92 --> 3765.40] He -[3765.40 --> 3765.74] Calls -[3765.74 --> 3765.90] Them -[3765.90 --> 3766.64] Exiles -[3766.64 --> 3768.22] He's -[3768.22 --> 3768.48] Speaking -[3768.48 --> 3768.66] To -[3768.66 --> 3769.22] Christians -[3769.22 --> 3769.80] No doubt -[3769.80 --> 3770.22] Converted -[3770.22 --> 3770.54] Jews -[3770.54 --> 3770.90] Like we -[3770.90 --> 3771.10] Said -[3771.10 --> 3771.22] Who -[3771.22 --> 3771.44] Claimed -[3771.44 --> 3771.72] Christ -[3771.72 --> 3771.88] As -[3771.88 --> 3772.10] Lord -[3772.10 --> 3772.76] But he -[3772.76 --> 3773.24] Calls -[3773.24 --> 3773.54] Them -[3773.54 --> 3774.76] Exiles -[3774.76 --> 3775.28] Now -[3775.28 --> 3775.56] That's -[3775.56 --> 3776.04] Interesting -[3776.04 --> 3776.38] Isn't -[3776.38 --> 3776.60] It -[3776.60 --> 3778.04] Like when -[3778.04 --> 3778.18] We -[3778.18 --> 3778.38] Think -[3778.38 --> 3778.52] Of -[3778.52 --> 3779.04] Exiles -[3779.04 --> 3779.22] We -[3779.22 --> 3779.40] Think -[3779.40 --> 3779.56] Of -[3779.56 --> 3779.92] People -[3779.92 --> 3780.44] Who've -[3780.44 --> 3780.56] Been -[3780.56 --> 3780.98] Taken -[3780.98 --> 3781.20] Into -[3781.20 --> 3781.84] Captivity -[3781.84 --> 3782.42] They've -[3782.42 --> 3782.58] Been -[3782.58 --> 3782.92] They've -[3782.92 --> 3783.02] Been -[3783.02 --> 3783.38] Brought -[3783.38 --> 3783.58] Into -[3783.58 --> 3783.84] This -[3783.84 --> 3784.14] Land -[3784.14 --> 3784.40] That's -[3784.40 --> 3784.60] Not -[3784.60 --> 3784.82] Their -[3784.82 --> 3785.16] Own -[3785.16 --> 3785.56] And -[3785.56 --> 3785.70] They're -[3785.70 --> 3785.98] Living -[3785.98 --> 3786.14] In -[3786.14 --> 3786.26] A -[3786.26 --> 3786.54] Culture -[3786.54 --> 3786.84] That's -[3786.84 --> 3787.14] Different -[3787.14 --> 3787.34] Than -[3787.34 --> 3787.44] The -[3787.44 --> 3787.62] One -[3787.62 --> 3787.76] That -[3787.76 --> 3787.90] They -[3787.90 --> 3788.16] Were -[3788.16 --> 3788.54] Once -[3788.54 --> 3788.80] In -[3788.80 --> 3788.90] And -[3788.90 --> 3789.02] They're -[3789.02 --> 3789.48] Likely -[3789.48 --> 3789.76] Being -[3789.76 --> 3790.14] Told -[3790.14 --> 3790.58] That -[3790.58 --> 3790.74] They -[3790.74 --> 3790.94] Need -[3790.94 --> 3791.10] To -[3791.10 --> 3791.54] Forget -[3791.54 --> 3791.86] Their -[3791.86 --> 3792.32] Ways -[3792.32 --> 3792.84] And -[3792.84 --> 3793.56] Customs -[3793.56 --> 3793.90] And -[3793.90 --> 3794.46] Conform -[3794.46 --> 3794.66] To -[3794.66 --> 3794.82] The -[3794.82 --> 3795.02] New -[3795.02 --> 3795.52] Laws -[3795.52 --> 3795.70] And -[3795.70 --> 3795.86] The -[3795.86 --> 3796.10] New -[3796.10 --> 3796.60] Ways -[3796.60 --> 3797.08] Of -[3797.08 --> 3797.26] Their -[3797.26 --> 3797.50] New -[3797.50 --> 3797.98] Home -[3797.98 --> 3799.74] Now -[3799.74 --> 3799.86] While -[3799.86 --> 3799.98] The -[3799.98 --> 3800.58] Recipients -[3800.58 --> 3800.74] Of -[3800.74 --> 3800.94] This -[3800.94 --> 3801.30] Letter -[3801.30 --> 3801.62] Weren't -[3801.62 --> 3801.74] In -[3801.74 --> 3801.90] A -[3801.90 --> 3802.16] Foreign -[3802.16 --> 3802.70] Land -[3802.70 --> 3803.82] Being -[3803.82 --> 3804.22] Jesus -[3804.22 --> 3804.50] As -[3804.50 --> 3805.26] Disciples -[3805.26 --> 3806.02] Was -[3806.02 --> 3806.48] Like -[3806.48 --> 3807.28] Being -[3807.28 --> 3807.66] An -[3807.66 --> 3808.26] Exile -[3808.26 --> 3809.20] At -[3809.20 --> 3809.36] Least -[3809.36 --> 3809.56] In -[3809.56 --> 3809.98] Peter's -[3809.98 --> 3810.22] Mind -[3810.22 --> 3811.70] To -[3811.70 --> 3812.00] Believe -[3812.00 --> 3812.16] In -[3812.16 --> 3812.44] One -[3812.44 --> 3812.84] God -[3812.84 --> 3813.00] And -[3813.00 --> 3813.12] To -[3813.12 --> 3813.52] Believe -[3813.52 --> 3814.08] That -[3814.08 --> 3814.54] Jesus -[3814.54 --> 3815.20] God's -[3815.20 --> 3815.44] Son -[3815.44 --> 3815.76] Was -[3815.76 --> 3816.10] Also -[3816.10 --> 3816.58] God -[3816.58 --> 3817.38] Died -[3817.38 --> 3817.58] For -[3817.58 --> 3817.80] Their -[3817.80 --> 3818.14] Sins -[3818.14 --> 3818.32] And -[3818.32 --> 3818.46] Was -[3818.46 --> 3818.60] The -[3818.60 --> 3818.80] Only -[3818.80 --> 3818.98] Way -[3818.98 --> 3819.12] To -[3819.12 --> 3819.60] Salvation -[3819.60 --> 3820.46] That -[3820.46 --> 3820.58] Would -[3820.58 --> 3820.72] Have -[3820.72 --> 3821.18] Flown -[3821.18 --> 3821.32] In -[3821.32 --> 3821.46] The -[3821.46 --> 3821.88] Face -[3821.88 --> 3822.04] Of -[3822.04 --> 3822.18] The -[3822.18 --> 3822.66] Culture -[3822.66 --> 3823.40] That -[3823.40 --> 3823.56] These -[3823.56 --> 3823.86] People -[3823.86 --> 3824.16] Lived -[3824.16 --> 3824.36] In -[3824.36 --> 3824.84] A -[3824.84 --> 3825.24] Culture -[3825.24 --> 3825.80] That -[3825.80 --> 3826.26] Believed -[3826.26 --> 3826.88] Fairly -[3826.88 --> 3827.40] Loosely -[3827.40 --> 3828.28] In -[3828.28 --> 3828.46] A -[3828.46 --> 3828.96] Multitude -[3828.96 --> 3829.18] Of -[3829.18 --> 3829.64] Gods -[3829.64 --> 3830.10] Who -[3830.10 --> 3830.36] Looked -[3830.36 --> 3830.66] After -[3830.66 --> 3830.88] A -[3830.88 --> 3831.48] Multitude -[3831.48 --> 3831.66] Of -[3831.66 --> 3832.02] Things -[3832.02 --> 3833.52] In -[3833.52 --> 3833.64] The -[3833.64 --> 3833.90] Study -[3833.90 --> 3834.16] Guide -[3834.16 --> 3834.34] That -[3834.34 --> 3834.58] I -[3834.58 --> 3835.02] So -[3835.02 --> 3836.36] Brilliantly -[3836.36 --> 3837.16] Promoted -[3837.16 --> 3837.32] At -[3837.32 --> 3837.42] The -[3837.42 --> 3837.66] Beginning -[3837.66 --> 3837.82] Of -[3837.82 --> 3837.98] This -[3837.98 --> 3838.30] Message -[3838.30 --> 3838.58] There's -[3838.58 --> 3838.70] An -[3838.70 --> 3839.18] Example -[3839.18 --> 3839.36] In -[3839.36 --> 3839.50] There -[3839.50 --> 3839.64] That -[3839.64 --> 3839.78] If -[3839.78 --> 3839.90] You -[3839.90 --> 3840.02] Were -[3840.02 --> 3840.14] A -[3840.14 --> 3840.50] Christian -[3840.50 --> 3841.06] Farmer -[3841.06 --> 3841.32] Back -[3841.32 --> 3841.46] In -[3841.46 --> 3841.66] That -[3841.66 --> 3841.94] Day -[3841.94 --> 3842.34] You -[3842.34 --> 3842.46] Would -[3842.46 --> 3842.56] Have -[3842.56 --> 3842.84] Believed -[3842.84 --> 3843.14] In -[3843.14 --> 3843.38] God -[3843.38 --> 3844.04] But -[3844.04 --> 3844.16] In -[3844.16 --> 3844.28] The -[3844.28 --> 3844.72] Culture -[3844.72 --> 3844.96] If -[3844.96 --> 3845.06] You -[3845.06 --> 3845.16] Were -[3845.16 --> 3845.30] A -[3845.30 --> 3845.62] Farmer -[3845.62 --> 3845.76] In -[3845.76 --> 3845.88] That -[3845.88 --> 3846.02] Day -[3846.02 --> 3846.16] You -[3846.16 --> 3846.26] Would -[3846.26 --> 3846.36] Have -[3846.36 --> 3846.66] Believed -[3846.66 --> 3846.88] In -[3846.88 --> 3847.02] The -[3847.02 --> 3847.32] Sun -[3847.32 --> 3847.64] God -[3847.64 --> 3847.80] And -[3847.80 --> 3847.92] The -[3847.92 --> 3848.22] Rain -[3848.22 --> 3848.48] God -[3848.48 --> 3848.62] And -[3848.62 --> 3848.94] Gods -[3848.94 --> 3849.08] Of -[3849.08 --> 3849.20] The -[3849.20 --> 3849.46] Weather -[3849.46 --> 3849.92] And -[3849.92 --> 3850.14] So -[3850.14 --> 3850.80] In -[3850.80 --> 3850.96] Your -[3850.96 --> 3851.26] Farm -[3851.26 --> 3851.88] Community -[3851.88 --> 3852.26] You -[3852.26 --> 3852.42] Would -[3852.42 --> 3852.70] Be -[3852.70 --> 3853.52] Offering -[3853.52 --> 3854.06] Different -[3854.06 --> 3854.56] Whether -[3854.56 --> 3854.80] They -[3854.80 --> 3854.94] Are -[3854.94 --> 3855.74] Sacrifices -[3855.74 --> 3855.96] Or -[3855.96 --> 3856.48] Prayers -[3856.48 --> 3856.74] Or -[3856.74 --> 3857.10] Whatever -[3857.10 --> 3857.36] To -[3857.36 --> 3857.56] The -[3857.56 --> 3857.78] Sun -[3857.78 --> 3858.14] God -[3858.14 --> 3858.88] And -[3858.88 --> 3859.02] The -[3859.02 --> 3859.28] Rain -[3859.28 --> 3859.62] God -[3859.62 --> 3859.78] But -[3859.78 --> 3859.92] If -[3859.92 --> 3860.02] You -[3860.02 --> 3860.14] As -[3860.14 --> 3860.24] A -[3860.24 --> 3860.62] Christian -[3860.62 --> 3860.90] Were -[3860.90 --> 3861.08] Not -[3861.08 --> 3861.36] Doing -[3861.36 --> 3861.74] That -[3861.74 --> 3862.46] You -[3862.46 --> 3862.64] Would -[3862.64 --> 3862.76] Have -[3862.76 --> 3862.94] Been -[3862.94 --> 3863.54] Blamed -[3863.54 --> 3864.36] For -[3864.36 --> 3864.48] The -[3864.48 --> 3864.66] Weather -[3864.66 --> 3864.90] Not -[3864.90 --> 3865.22] Turning -[3865.22 --> 3865.48] Out -[3865.48 --> 3865.74] As -[3865.74 --> 3865.92] You -[3865.92 --> 3866.16] Saw -[3866.16 --> 3866.34] Fit -[3866.34 --> 3866.46] You -[3866.46 --> 3866.60] Would -[3866.60 --> 3866.70] Have -[3866.70 --> 3866.80] Been -[3866.80 --> 3867.90] Outcast -[3867.90 --> 3868.16] From -[3868.16 --> 3868.34] The -[3868.34 --> 3868.66] Culture -[3868.66 --> 3868.82] A -[3868.82 --> 3868.94] Little -[3868.94 --> 3869.18] Bit -[3869.18 --> 3869.52] You -[3869.52 --> 3869.66] Would -[3869.66 --> 3869.86] Have -[3869.86 --> 3869.98] Been -[3869.98 --> 3870.32] Welcome -[3870.32 --> 3870.60] Into -[3870.60 --> 3870.78] The -[3870.78 --> 3871.14] Market -[3871.14 --> 3871.72] Perhaps -[3871.72 --> 3872.16] You -[3872.16 --> 3872.28] Would -[3872.28 --> 3872.40] Have -[3872.40 --> 3872.54] Been -[3872.54 --> 3872.86] Banned -[3872.86 --> 3873.06] From -[3873.06 --> 3873.20] The -[3873.20 --> 3873.58] Facebook -[3873.58 --> 3873.96] Group -[3873.96 --> 3874.12] Of -[3874.12 --> 3874.24] The -[3874.24 --> 3874.64] Community -[3874.64 --> 3875.16] Farmers -[3875.16 --> 3875.52] Market -[3875.52 --> 3876.32] It -[3876.32 --> 3876.52] Would -[3876.52 --> 3876.66] Have -[3876.66 --> 3877.00] Caused -[3877.00 --> 3877.82] Problems -[3877.82 --> 3878.08] Because -[3878.08 --> 3878.30] You -[3878.30 --> 3878.58] Flew -[3878.58 --> 3878.70] In -[3878.70 --> 3878.82] The -[3878.82 --> 3879.16] Face -[3879.16 --> 3879.34] Of -[3879.34 --> 3879.50] The -[3879.50 --> 3879.82] Culture -[3879.82 --> 3880.02] That -[3880.02 --> 3880.52] Existed -[3880.52 --> 3881.28] Today -[3881.28 --> 3883.26] So -[3883.26 --> 3883.42] While -[3883.42 --> 3883.58] They -[3883.58 --> 3883.82] Weren't -[3883.82 --> 3883.94] In -[3883.94 --> 3884.08] A -[3884.08 --> 3884.32] Foreign -[3884.32 --> 3884.74] Land -[3884.74 --> 3885.36] Necessarily -[3885.36 --> 3885.54] They -[3885.54 --> 3885.80] Still -[3885.80 --> 3885.98] Had -[3885.98 --> 3886.12] To -[3886.12 --> 3886.24] Be -[3886.24 --> 3886.74] Faithful -[3886.74 --> 3886.92] To -[3886.92 --> 3887.16] God -[3887.16 --> 3887.30] In -[3887.30 --> 3887.44] The -[3887.44 --> 3887.88] Midst -[3887.88 --> 3888.24] Of -[3888.24 --> 3888.38] A -[3888.38 --> 3888.80] Culture -[3888.80 --> 3889.26] Which -[3889.26 --> 3889.80] Operated -[3889.80 --> 3890.08] Very -[3890.08 --> 3890.58] Differently -[3890.58 --> 3890.74] Than -[3890.74 --> 3890.88] How -[3890.88 --> 3891.24] Christ -[3891.24 --> 3891.62] Called -[3891.62 --> 3891.80] Them -[3891.80 --> 3892.00] To -[3892.00 --> 3892.30] Live -[3892.30 --> 3894.98] Now -[3894.98 --> 3895.30] Being -[3895.30 --> 3895.48] Of -[3895.48 --> 3895.76] Jewish -[3895.76 --> 3896.38] Descent -[3896.38 --> 3896.90] Peter's -[3896.90 --> 3897.18] Readers -[3897.18 --> 3897.48] They -[3897.48 --> 3897.84] Probably -[3897.84 --> 3898.08] Would -[3898.08 --> 3898.20] Have -[3898.20 --> 3898.62] Remembered -[3898.62 --> 3898.82] Their -[3898.82 --> 3899.30] History -[3899.30 --> 3899.54] And -[3899.54 --> 3899.66] That -[3899.66 --> 3899.82] Their -[3899.82 --> 3900.62] Forefathers -[3900.62 --> 3900.86] Were -[3900.86 --> 3902.46] Exiles -[3902.46 --> 3902.76] In -[3902.76 --> 3903.18] Babylon -[3903.18 --> 3903.88] And -[3903.88 --> 3904.02] Then -[3904.02 --> 3904.26] Later -[3904.26 --> 3904.50] In -[3904.50 --> 3904.90] Persia -[3904.90 --> 3905.64] It -[3905.64 --> 3905.78] Was -[3905.78 --> 3905.96] In -[3905.96 --> 3906.22] That -[3906.22 --> 3906.70] Place -[3906.70 --> 3906.90] Of -[3906.90 --> 3907.58] Exile -[3907.58 --> 3908.24] That -[3908.24 --> 3908.48] People -[3908.48 --> 3908.70] Like -[3908.70 --> 3909.20] Daniel -[3909.20 --> 3909.46] Or -[3909.46 --> 3909.68] People -[3909.68 --> 3909.90] Like -[3909.90 --> 3910.44] Shadrach -[3910.44 --> 3910.88] Meshach -[3910.88 --> 3911.02] And -[3911.02 --> 3911.58] Abednego -[3911.58 --> 3912.56] Became -[3912.56 --> 3913.18] Pillars -[3913.18 --> 3913.38] And -[3913.38 --> 3913.50] Were -[3913.50 --> 3913.78] Lifted -[3913.78 --> 3913.92] Up -[3913.92 --> 3914.06] As -[3914.06 --> 3914.42] Pillars -[3914.42 --> 3914.56] Of -[3914.56 --> 3914.68] The -[3914.68 --> 3914.94] Faith -[3914.94 --> 3915.78] And -[3915.78 --> 3915.86] For -[3915.86 --> 3916.00] Those -[3916.00 --> 3916.16] Who -[3916.16 --> 3916.42] Don't -[3916.42 --> 3916.56] Know -[3916.56 --> 3916.80] Those -[3916.80 --> 3917.12] Stories -[3917.12 --> 3917.62] Shadrach -[3917.62 --> 3918.00] Meshach -[3918.00 --> 3918.12] And -[3918.12 --> 3918.52] Abednego -[3918.52 --> 3918.70] They -[3918.70 --> 3918.82] Were -[3918.82 --> 3919.18] Cast -[3919.18 --> 3919.40] Into -[3919.40 --> 3919.60] A -[3919.60 --> 3919.90] Furnace -[3919.90 --> 3920.16] Because -[3920.16 --> 3920.34] They -[3920.34 --> 3920.44] Would -[3920.44 --> 3920.60] Not -[3920.60 --> 3920.94] Bow -[3920.94 --> 3921.28] Down -[3921.28 --> 3921.46] To -[3921.46 --> 3921.62] A -[3921.62 --> 3922.06] Statue -[3922.06 --> 3922.52] Of -[3922.52 --> 3922.64] The -[3922.64 --> 3922.84] King -[3932.46 --> 3932.68] Because -[3932.68 --> 3932.84] Of -[3932.84 --> 3932.94] Their -[3932.94 --> 3933.18] Faith -[3933.18 --> 3933.78] Daniel -[3933.78 --> 3934.00] Was -[3934.00 --> 3934.22] Also -[3934.22 --> 3934.70] Cast -[3934.70 --> 3935.08] Into -[3935.08 --> 3935.36] A -[3935.36 --> 3935.60] Pit -[3935.60 --> 3935.84] To -[3935.84 --> 3936.14] Die -[3936.14 --> 3936.58] This -[3936.58 --> 3936.78] Time -[3936.78 --> 3936.98] Into -[3936.98 --> 3937.16] A -[3937.16 --> 3937.68] Lion's -[3937.68 --> 3937.80] Den -[3937.80 --> 3938.02] Because -[3938.02 --> 3938.20] He -[3938.20 --> 3938.34] Was -[3938.34 --> 3938.60] Caught -[3938.60 --> 3939.08] Praying -[3939.08 --> 3939.68] To -[3939.68 --> 3940.08] God -[3940.08 --> 3940.84] Not -[3940.84 --> 3941.40] Worshipping -[3941.40 --> 3942.10] The -[3942.10 --> 3942.38] King -[3942.38 --> 3942.70] However -[3942.70 --> 3943.04] God -[3943.04 --> 3943.52] Closed -[3943.52 --> 3943.72] The -[3943.72 --> 3944.16] Lion's -[3944.16 --> 3944.48] Mouth -[3944.48 --> 3944.72] While -[3944.72 --> 3944.82] He -[3944.82 --> 3944.96] Was -[3944.96 --> 3945.14] In -[3945.14 --> 3945.30] The -[3945.30 --> 3945.62] Den -[3945.62 --> 3946.58] And -[3946.58 --> 3946.96] Daniel's -[3946.96 --> 3947.18] Life -[3947.18 --> 3947.48] Was -[3947.48 --> 3947.72] Spared -[3947.72 --> 3947.88] The -[3947.88 --> 3948.04] King -[3948.04 --> 3948.36] Actually -[3948.36 --> 3948.72] Appointed -[3948.72 --> 3948.90] Him -[3948.90 --> 3949.02] To -[3949.02 --> 3949.10] A -[3949.10 --> 3949.24] Very -[3949.24 --> 3949.60] High -[3949.60 --> 3950.04] Place -[3950.04 --> 3950.24] In -[3950.24 --> 3950.38] His -[3950.38 --> 3950.80] Office -[3950.80 --> 3951.26] So -[3951.26 --> 3951.44] Daniel -[3951.44 --> 3951.68] Was -[3951.68 --> 3952.38] Rewarded -[3952.38 --> 3953.12] For -[3953.12 --> 3953.30] His -[3953.30 --> 3953.80] Faithfulness -[3953.80 --> 3954.00] So -[3954.00 --> 3954.20] That's -[3954.20 --> 3954.34] What -[3954.34 --> 3954.74] Peter -[3954.74 --> 3955.42] Is -[3955.42 --> 3955.78] Initially -[3955.78 --> 3956.14] Getting -[3956.14 --> 3956.36] At -[3956.36 --> 3956.62] He's -[3956.62 --> 3957.30] Highlighting -[3957.30 --> 3957.74] That -[3957.74 --> 3958.04] These -[3958.04 --> 3958.50] People -[3958.50 --> 3959.02] Are -[3959.02 --> 3959.18] In -[3959.18 --> 3959.78] Exile -[3959.78 --> 3960.34] Because -[3960.34 --> 3960.54] They -[3960.54 --> 3960.88] Believe -[3960.88 --> 3961.06] In -[3961.06 --> 3961.32] Jesus -[3961.32 --> 3961.80] Christ -[3961.80 --> 3962.92] And -[3962.92 --> 3963.38] Yet -[3963.38 --> 3964.82] God -[3964.82 --> 3965.68] Calls -[3965.68 --> 3966.02] Them -[3966.02 --> 3966.70] To -[3966.70 --> 3967.24] Faithfulness -[3967.24 --> 3968.14] Just -[3968.14 --> 3968.34] Like -[3968.34 --> 3968.46] He -[3968.46 --> 3968.72] Called -[3968.72 --> 3969.14] Daniel -[3969.14 --> 3969.38] Just -[3969.38 --> 3969.56] Like -[3969.56 --> 3969.66] He -[3969.66 --> 3969.86] Called -[3969.86 --> 3970.44] Shadrach -[3970.44 --> 3971.22] Meshach -[3971.22 --> 3971.80] And -[3971.80 --> 3972.22] Abednego -[3972.22 --> 3974.62] They -[3974.62 --> 3974.78] Were -[3974.78 --> 3975.62] Called -[3975.62 --> 3976.00] To -[3976.00 --> 3976.28] Go -[3976.28 --> 3976.44] They -[3976.44 --> 3976.58] Were -[3976.58 --> 3976.76] Called -[3976.76 --> 3976.96] To -[3976.96 --> 3977.36] Live -[3977.36 --> 3977.80] In -[3977.80 --> 3977.98] These -[3977.98 --> 3978.62] Cultures -[3978.62 --> 3980.16] Differently -[3980.16 --> 3980.30] They -[3980.30 --> 3980.38] Were -[3980.38 --> 3980.54] To -[3980.54 --> 3980.92] Look -[3980.92 --> 3981.68] Different -[3981.68 --> 3981.86] They -[3981.86 --> 3982.00] Would -[3982.00 --> 3982.20] Be -[3982.20 --> 3982.42] The -[3982.42 --> 3982.80] Weird -[3982.80 --> 3983.08] Ones -[3983.08 --> 3983.22] They -[3983.22 --> 3983.50] Wouldn't -[3983.50 --> 3983.66] Be -[3983.66 --> 3984.24] Conforming -[3984.24 --> 3985.00] It -[3985.00 --> 3985.14] Would -[3985.14 --> 3985.42] Bring -[3985.42 --> 3985.70] On -[3985.70 --> 3986.18] Trouble -[3986.18 --> 3987.42] Be -[3987.42 --> 3987.58] Them -[3987.58 --> 3988.14] Economic -[3988.14 --> 3988.42] Or -[3988.42 --> 3988.86] Political -[3988.86 --> 3989.22] Or -[3989.22 --> 3989.66] Possibly -[3989.66 --> 3989.94] Even -[3989.94 --> 3990.30] Physical -[3990.30 --> 3991.02] Because -[3991.02 --> 3991.32] Of -[3991.32 --> 3991.48] Their -[3991.48 --> 3991.94] Faith -[3991.94 --> 3992.82] They -[3992.82 --> 3992.98] Were -[3992.98 --> 3993.20] Now -[3993.20 --> 3993.92] Exiles -[3993.92 --> 3994.34] In -[3994.34 --> 3994.50] Their -[3994.50 --> 3994.90] Own -[3994.90 --> 3995.52] Land -[3995.52 --> 3998.04] And -[3998.04 --> 3998.26] As -[3998.26 --> 3998.40] We're -[3998.40 --> 3998.50] Going -[3998.50 --> 3998.58] To -[3998.58 --> 3999.10] Discover -[3999.10 --> 3999.26] A -[3999.26 --> 3999.36] Little -[3999.36 --> 3999.50] Bit -[3999.50 --> 3999.70] Later -[3999.70 --> 4000.08] Today -[4000.08 --> 4000.30] But -[4000.30 --> 4000.70] Throughout -[4000.70 --> 4001.08] This -[4001.08 --> 4001.44] Series -[4001.44 --> 4002.76] This -[4002.76 --> 4002.92] Is -[4002.92 --> 4003.32] True -[4003.32 --> 4003.76] For -[4003.76 --> 4004.14] Us -[4004.14 --> 4004.80] Well -[4004.80 --> 4007.00] Now -[4007.00 --> 4007.14] This -[4007.14 --> 4007.44] Becomes -[4007.44 --> 4007.62] A -[4007.62 --> 4007.86] Major -[4007.86 --> 4008.20] Theme -[4008.20 --> 4008.52] Throughout -[4008.52 --> 4009.04] This -[4009.04 --> 4009.24] Whole -[4009.24 --> 4009.46] Book -[4009.46 --> 4009.62] Of -[4009.62 --> 4009.82] First -[4009.82 --> 4010.24] Peter -[4010.24 --> 4010.80] And -[4010.80 --> 4010.92] We're -[4010.92 --> 4011.02] Going -[4011.02 --> 4011.10] To -[4011.10 --> 4011.46] Dig -[4011.46 --> 4011.58] It -[4011.58 --> 4011.70] Up -[4011.70 --> 4012.04] However -[4012.04 --> 4013.94] Despite -[4013.94 --> 4014.76] Understanding -[4014.76 --> 4014.96] That -[4014.96 --> 4015.06] They -[4015.06 --> 4015.18] Are -[4015.18 --> 4015.74] Exiles -[4015.74 --> 4016.08] Living -[4016.08 --> 4016.26] In -[4016.26 --> 4016.38] A -[4016.38 --> 4016.64] Pagan -[4016.64 --> 4017.12] Culture -[4017.12 --> 4018.64] They -[4018.64 --> 4018.80] Were -[4018.80 --> 4019.08] Called -[4019.08 --> 4019.26] To -[4019.26 --> 4019.56] Remain -[4019.56 --> 4020.22] Steadfast -[4020.22 --> 4020.56] Because -[4020.56 --> 4020.94] They -[4020.94 --> 4021.18] Were -[4021.18 --> 4021.56] Born -[4021.56 --> 4021.98] Again -[4021.98 --> 4023.02] Into -[4023.02 --> 4023.20] A -[4023.20 --> 4023.64] Living -[4023.64 --> 4024.46] Hope -[4024.46 --> 4025.62] Verses -[4025.62 --> 4025.82] Three -[4025.82 --> 4026.36] To -[4026.36 --> 4026.82] Five -[4026.82 --> 4027.06] Of -[4027.06 --> 4027.20] Our -[4027.20 --> 4027.58] Text -[4027.58 --> 4027.90] Says -[4027.90 --> 4028.08] That -[4028.08 --> 4028.34] Peter -[4028.34 --> 4028.70] Writes -[4028.70 --> 4028.86] And -[4028.86 --> 4029.00] I'm -[4029.00 --> 4029.10] Going -[4029.10 --> 4029.18] To -[4029.18 --> 4029.40] Read -[4029.40 --> 4029.52] It -[4029.52 --> 4029.68] From -[4029.68 --> 4029.82] The -[4029.82 --> 4030.40] ESV -[4030.40 --> 4030.82] Because -[4030.82 --> 4030.92] I -[4030.92 --> 4031.08] Just -[4031.08 --> 4031.30] Kind -[4031.30 --> 4031.36] Of -[4031.36 --> 4031.52] Like -[4031.52 --> 4031.62] It -[4031.62 --> 4031.70] A -[4031.70 --> 4031.82] Little -[4031.82 --> 4031.96] Bit -[4031.96 --> 4032.14] Better -[4032.14 --> 4032.32] It's -[4032.32 --> 4032.42] Going -[4032.42 --> 4032.46] To -[4032.46 --> 4032.48] To -[4032.48 --> 4032.56] Be -[4032.56 --> 4032.66] On -[4032.66 --> 4032.78] The -[4032.78 --> 4032.98] Screen -[4032.98 --> 4033.44] It -[4033.44 --> 4033.62] Says -[4033.62 --> 4033.88] This -[4033.88 --> 4034.40] Verses -[4034.40 --> 4034.58] Three -[4034.58 --> 4034.70] To -[4034.70 --> 4034.94] Five -[4034.94 --> 4035.08] Of -[4035.08 --> 4035.20] Our -[4035.20 --> 4035.40] Text -[4035.40 --> 4036.04] According -[4036.04 --> 4036.24] To -[4036.24 --> 4036.44] His -[4036.44 --> 4036.74] Great -[4036.74 --> 4037.14] Mercy -[4037.14 --> 4037.94] He -[4037.94 --> 4038.32] God -[4038.32 --> 4038.48] The -[4038.48 --> 4038.78] Father -[4038.78 --> 4039.30] Has -[4039.30 --> 4039.76] Caused -[4039.76 --> 4040.04] Us -[4040.04 --> 4040.24] To -[4040.24 --> 4040.40] Be -[4040.40 --> 4040.88] Born -[4040.88 --> 4041.54] Again -[4041.54 --> 4042.08] Into -[4042.08 --> 4042.30] A -[4042.30 --> 4042.64] Living -[4042.64 --> 4043.08] Hope -[4043.08 --> 4043.56] Through -[4043.56 --> 4043.74] The -[4043.74 --> 4044.46] Resurrection -[4044.46 --> 4044.88] Of -[4044.88 --> 4045.28] Jesus -[4045.28 --> 4045.90] Christ -[4045.90 --> 4046.42] From -[4046.42 --> 4046.58] The -[4046.58 --> 4046.86] Dead -[4046.86 --> 4047.58] To -[4047.58 --> 4047.74] An -[4047.74 --> 4048.68] Inheritance -[4048.68 --> 4049.52] That -[4049.52 --> 4049.70] Is -[4049.70 --> 4050.76] Imperishable -[4050.76 --> 4052.08] Undefiled -[4052.08 --> 4052.62] And -[4052.62 --> 4053.42] Unfading -[4053.42 --> 4054.56] Kept -[4054.56 --> 4054.86] In -[4054.86 --> 4055.10] Heaven -[4055.10 --> 4055.38] For -[4055.38 --> 4055.62] You -[4055.62 --> 4055.98] Who -[4055.98 --> 4056.20] By -[4056.20 --> 4056.60] God's -[4056.60 --> 4056.94] Power -[4056.94 --> 4057.14] Are -[4057.14 --> 4057.34] Being -[4057.34 --> 4057.80] Guarded -[4057.80 --> 4058.08] Through -[4058.08 --> 4058.44] Faith -[4058.44 --> 4058.98] For -[4058.98 --> 4059.44] A -[4059.44 --> 4059.96] Salvation -[4059.96 --> 4060.34] Ready -[4060.34 --> 4061.10] Be -[4061.10 --> 4061.62] Revealed -[4061.62 --> 4062.28] In -[4062.28 --> 4062.40] The -[4062.40 --> 4062.68] Last -[4062.68 --> 4063.06] Time -[4063.06 --> 4065.62] Peter -[4065.62 --> 4065.84] Is -[4065.84 --> 4066.40] Highlighting -[4066.40 --> 4066.54] To -[4066.54 --> 4066.72] Us -[4066.72 --> 4066.92] All -[4066.92 --> 4067.02] And -[4067.02 --> 4067.16] Here -[4067.16 --> 4067.46] Comes -[4067.46 --> 4067.62] The -[4067.62 --> 4067.96] Gospel -[4067.96 --> 4068.28] Right -[4068.28 --> 4068.46] Off -[4068.46 --> 4068.58] The -[4068.58 --> 4068.84] Top -[4068.84 --> 4069.30] That -[4069.30 --> 4069.50] By -[4069.50 --> 4070.00] Believing -[4070.00 --> 4070.22] In -[4070.22 --> 4070.50] Jesus -[4070.50 --> 4070.98] Christ -[4070.98 --> 4071.44] Believing -[4071.44 --> 4071.60] That -[4071.60 --> 4071.72] He -[4071.72 --> 4071.88] Was -[4071.88 --> 4072.34] Born -[4072.34 --> 4072.52] To -[4072.52 --> 4072.72] This -[4072.72 --> 4072.94] Earth -[4072.94 --> 4073.10] The -[4073.10 --> 4073.26] Son -[4073.26 --> 4073.38] Of -[4073.38 --> 4073.66] God -[4073.66 --> 4074.04] And -[4074.04 --> 4074.14] That -[4074.14 --> 4074.28] He -[4074.28 --> 4074.66] Lived -[4074.66 --> 4074.84] On -[4074.84 --> 4075.02] This -[4075.02 --> 4075.24] Earth -[4075.24 --> 4075.42] A -[4075.42 --> 4075.78] Perfect -[4075.78 --> 4076.06] Life -[4076.06 --> 4076.22] That -[4076.22 --> 4076.40] We -[4076.40 --> 4076.58] Have -[4076.58 --> 4076.72] Been -[4076.72 --> 4076.94] Called -[4076.94 --> 4077.12] To -[4077.12 --> 4077.34] Live -[4077.34 --> 4077.74] Yet -[4077.74 --> 4078.06] Failed -[4078.06 --> 4078.24] To -[4078.24 --> 4078.42] Do -[4078.42 --> 4078.72] So -[4078.72 --> 4079.18] By -[4079.18 --> 4079.60] Believing -[4079.60 --> 4079.80] That -[4079.80 --> 4080.20] Despite -[4080.20 --> 4080.62] Living -[4080.62 --> 4080.88] That -[4080.88 --> 4081.28] Perfect -[4081.28 --> 4081.64] Life -[4081.64 --> 4082.18] Jesus -[4082.18 --> 4082.82] Died -[4082.82 --> 4083.14] On -[4083.14 --> 4083.30] A -[4083.30 --> 4083.74] Cross -[4083.74 --> 4084.24] That -[4084.24 --> 4084.54] You -[4084.54 --> 4085.30] A -[4085.30 --> 4085.56] Death -[4085.56 --> 4085.74] That -[4085.74 --> 4085.90] You -[4085.90 --> 4086.04] And -[4086.04 --> 4086.26] I -[4086.26 --> 4086.70] Deserve -[4086.70 --> 4086.90] To -[4086.90 --> 4087.12] Die -[4087.12 --> 4087.42] Because -[4087.42 --> 4087.60] Of -[4087.60 --> 4087.88] Sin -[4087.88 --> 4088.40] By -[4088.40 --> 4088.88] Believing -[4088.88 --> 4089.08] That -[4089.08 --> 4089.42] After -[4089.42 --> 4089.82] Jesus -[4089.82 --> 4090.40] Died -[4090.40 --> 4090.76] He -[4090.76 --> 4091.20] Rose -[4091.20 --> 4091.54] Again -[4091.54 --> 4091.72] On -[4091.72 --> 4091.88] The -[4091.88 --> 4092.12] Third -[4092.12 --> 4092.36] Day -[4092.36 --> 4092.94] Defeating -[4092.94 --> 4093.58] Sin -[4093.58 --> 4094.04] And -[4094.04 --> 4094.32] Death -[4094.32 --> 4094.78] For -[4094.78 --> 4094.92] Us -[4094.92 --> 4095.08] All -[4095.08 --> 4095.26] By -[4095.26 --> 4095.88] Believing -[4095.88 --> 4096.62] That -[4096.62 --> 4097.08] Jesus -[4097.08 --> 4097.60] Christ -[4097.60 --> 4097.94] Our -[4097.94 --> 4098.38] Savior -[4098.38 --> 4098.92] Rose -[4098.92 --> 4099.24] Again -[4099.24 --> 4099.42] On -[4099.42 --> 4099.54] The -[4099.54 --> 4099.76] Third -[4099.76 --> 4100.00] Day -[4100.00 --> 4100.40] And -[4100.40 --> 4100.58] Is -[4100.58 --> 4100.88] Seated -[4100.88 --> 4101.06] At -[4101.06 --> 4101.20] The -[4101.20 --> 4101.52] Right -[4101.52 --> 4101.90] Hand -[4101.90 --> 4102.26] Of -[4102.26 --> 4102.54] God -[4102.54 --> 4102.72] The -[4102.72 --> 4103.04] Father -[4103.04 --> 4103.56] Almighty -[4103.56 --> 4104.00] And -[4104.00 --> 4104.18] Did -[4104.18 --> 4104.50] All -[4104.50 --> 4104.78] These -[4104.78 --> 4105.06] Things -[4105.06 --> 4105.28] For -[4105.28 --> 4105.56] You -[4105.56 --> 4105.98] And -[4105.98 --> 4106.14] For -[4106.14 --> 4106.30] Me -[4106.30 --> 4106.44] And -[4106.44 --> 4106.60] For -[4106.60 --> 4106.90] All -[4106.90 --> 4107.06] Who -[4107.06 --> 4107.32] Call -[4107.32 --> 4107.52] Him -[4107.52 --> 4107.78] Lord -[4107.78 --> 4108.20] By -[4108.20 --> 4108.56] Believing -[4108.56 --> 4108.92] All -[4108.92 --> 4109.36] This -[4109.36 --> 4110.36] You -[4110.36 --> 4111.56] Are -[4111.56 --> 4112.46] Born -[4112.46 --> 4113.48] Again -[4113.48 --> 4115.40] And -[4115.40 --> 4115.52] You -[4115.52 --> 4115.66] Are -[4115.66 --> 4116.12] Born -[4116.12 --> 4116.66] Again -[4116.66 --> 4117.06] Into -[4117.06 --> 4117.34] A -[4117.34 --> 4117.94] Living -[4117.94 --> 4118.92] Hope -[4118.92 --> 4120.46] A -[4120.46 --> 4120.68] Hope -[4120.68 --> 4120.86] That -[4120.86 --> 4121.18] Comes -[4121.18 --> 4121.40] From -[4121.40 --> 4121.98] Christ's -[4121.98 --> 4122.24] Life -[4122.24 --> 4122.78] And -[4122.78 --> 4123.10] Death -[4123.10 --> 4123.54] And -[4123.54 --> 4124.24] Resurrection -[4124.24 --> 4126.08] And -[4126.08 --> 4126.24] That -[4126.24 --> 4126.66] Living -[4126.66 --> 4127.04] Hope -[4127.04 --> 4127.20] That -[4127.20 --> 4127.34] We -[4127.34 --> 4127.48] Are -[4127.48 --> 4127.70] Born -[4127.70 --> 4128.04] Into -[4128.04 --> 4129.88] Our -[4129.88 --> 4130.72] Inheritance -[4130.72 --> 4133.44] Taking -[4133.44 --> 4133.72] Notes -[4133.72 --> 4133.94] Write -[4133.94 --> 4134.14] Down -[4134.14 --> 4134.72] Inheritance -[4134.72 --> 4134.94] Put -[4134.94 --> 4135.06] A -[4135.06 --> 4135.32] Colon -[4135.32 --> 4135.68] Behind -[4135.68 --> 4135.80] It -[4135.80 --> 4135.88] And -[4135.88 --> 4136.08] Put -[4136.08 --> 4136.20] Your -[4136.20 --> 4136.42] Pens -[4136.42 --> 4136.64] Down -[4136.64 --> 4136.80] For -[4136.80 --> 4137.34] A -[4137.34 --> 4137.58] Second -[4137.58 --> 4138.16] We -[4138.16 --> 4138.22] Are -[4138.22 --> 4138.30] Going -[4138.30 --> 4138.34] To -[4138.34 --> 4138.44] Get -[4138.44 --> 4138.56] To -[4138.56 --> 4138.68] That -[4138.68 --> 4138.76] In -[4138.76 --> 4138.90] One -[4138.90 --> 4139.18] Second -[4139.18 --> 4140.88] Before -[4140.88 --> 4141.06] We -[4141.06 --> 4141.20] Do -[4141.20 --> 4141.42] That -[4141.42 --> 4141.58] Has -[4141.58 --> 4141.82] Anyone -[4141.82 --> 4142.16] Here -[4142.16 --> 4142.56] Watched -[4142.56 --> 4142.68] The -[4142.68 --> 4142.82] Show -[4142.82 --> 4142.98] The -[4142.98 --> 4143.12] Good -[4143.12 --> 4143.44] Place -[4143.44 --> 4145.08] Good -[4145.08 --> 4145.30] Place -[4145.30 --> 4145.50] Yeah -[4145.50 --> 4146.80] Good -[4146.80 --> 4147.08] Place -[4147.08 --> 4148.52] It -[4148.52 --> 4148.76] Deals -[4148.76 --> 4148.94] With -[4148.94 --> 4149.24] A lot -[4149.24 --> 4149.38] Of -[4149.38 --> 4149.74] Comedy -[4149.74 --> 4150.02] It's -[4150.02 --> 4150.12] On -[4150.12 --> 4150.48] Netflix -[4150.48 --> 4150.76] I'm -[4150.76 --> 4150.90] Not -[4150.90 --> 4151.28] Necessarily -[4151.28 --> 4151.70] Promoting -[4151.70 --> 4151.82] It -[4151.82 --> 4151.90] You -[4151.90 --> 4151.98] Don't -[4151.98 --> 4152.06] Have -[4152.06 --> 4152.14] To -[4152.14 --> 4152.60] Watch -[4152.60 --> 4152.70] It -[4152.70 --> 4152.86] But -[4152.86 --> 4153.00] What -[4153.00 --> 4153.12] It -[4153.12 --> 4153.16] Is -[4153.16 --> 4153.36] About -[4153.36 --> 4153.48] It -[4153.48 --> 4153.66] Deals -[4153.66 --> 4153.76] With -[4153.76 --> 4153.94] A lot -[4153.94 --> 4154.06] Of -[4154.06 --> 4154.50] Philosophy -[4154.50 --> 4154.68] And -[4154.68 --> 4155.04] Ethics -[4155.04 --> 4155.52] But -[4155.52 --> 4155.62] The -[4155.62 --> 4155.64] The -[4155.64 --> 4155.86] Main -[4155.86 --> 4156.16] Idea -[4156.16 --> 4156.32] Of -[4156.32 --> 4156.46] The -[4166.80 --> 4166.94] Go -[4166.94 --> 4167.10] To -[4167.10 --> 4167.22] The -[4167.22 --> 4167.40] Good -[4167.40 --> 4167.74] Place -[4167.74 --> 4168.26] And -[4168.26 --> 4168.42] This -[4168.42 --> 4168.62] Good -[4168.62 --> 4168.92] Place -[4168.92 --> 4169.08] Is -[4169.08 --> 4169.66] Crafted -[4169.66 --> 4169.84] For -[4169.84 --> 4170.08] Them -[4170.08 --> 4170.44] They -[4170.44 --> 4170.66] Live -[4170.66 --> 4170.82] In -[4170.82 --> 4171.20] A -[4171.20 --> 4171.60] Dream -[4171.60 --> 4171.94] House -[4171.94 --> 4172.22] That's -[4172.22 --> 4172.76] Perfectly -[4172.76 --> 4173.32] Designed -[4173.32 --> 4173.42] To -[4173.42 --> 4173.82] Them -[4173.82 --> 4174.22] They -[4174.22 --> 4174.42] Meet -[4174.42 --> 4174.60] Their -[4174.60 --> 4175.32] Soulmates -[4175.32 --> 4175.50] Who -[4175.50 --> 4175.66] They -[4175.66 --> 4176.00] Missed -[4176.00 --> 4176.26] Out -[4176.26 --> 4176.50] On -[4176.50 --> 4176.52] On -[4176.52 --> 4177.00] Earth -[4177.00 --> 4177.74] They -[4177.74 --> 4177.90] Can -[4177.90 --> 4178.18] Enter -[4178.18 --> 4178.68] Frozen -[4178.68 --> 4179.10] Yogurt -[4179.10 --> 4179.38] Shop -[4179.38 --> 4179.56] On -[4179.56 --> 4179.86] Any -[4179.86 --> 4180.26] Corner -[4180.26 --> 4180.48] Of -[4180.48 --> 4180.66] This -[4180.66 --> 4181.16] Neighborhood -[4181.16 --> 4181.36] They're -[4181.36 --> 4181.78] Everywhere -[4181.78 --> 4182.24] And -[4182.24 --> 4182.38] You -[4182.38 --> 4182.58] Can -[4182.58 --> 4182.88] Taste -[4182.88 --> 4183.18] All -[4183.18 --> 4183.50] Sorts -[4183.50 --> 4183.64] Of -[4183.64 --> 4184.02] Flavors -[4184.02 --> 4184.20] Of -[4184.20 --> 4184.48] Frozen -[4184.48 --> 4184.84] Yogurt -[4184.84 --> 4185.22] That -[4185.22 --> 4185.52] Taste -[4185.52 --> 4185.74] Like -[4185.74 --> 4185.90] The -[4185.90 --> 4186.24] Joys -[4186.24 --> 4186.38] Of -[4186.38 --> 4186.54] This -[4186.54 --> 4186.74] Earth -[4186.74 --> 4187.28] Flavors -[4187.28 --> 4187.54] Like -[4187.54 --> 4187.90] A -[4187.90 --> 4188.14] Four -[4188.14 --> 4188.28] Day -[4188.28 --> 4188.76] Weekend -[4188.76 --> 4189.26] Or -[4189.26 --> 4189.44] The -[4189.44 --> 4189.92] Softness -[4189.92 --> 4190.06] Of -[4190.06 --> 4190.18] A -[4190.18 --> 4190.42] Tiny -[4190.42 --> 4190.88] Puppy's -[4190.88 --> 4191.18] Ear -[4191.18 --> 4191.68] Or -[4191.68 --> 4191.84] The -[4191.84 --> 4192.18] Sound -[4192.18 --> 4192.32] Of -[4192.32 --> 4192.46] The -[4192.46 --> 4192.84] Ocean -[4192.84 --> 4193.24] Or -[4193.24 --> 4193.40] My -[4193.40 --> 4193.70] Personal -[4193.70 --> 4194.02] Favorite -[4194.02 --> 4194.34] A -[4194.34 --> 4194.64] Second -[4194.64 --> 4194.94] Kiss -[4194.94 --> 4195.20] Because -[4195.20 --> 4195.38] The -[4195.38 --> 4195.56] First -[4195.56 --> 4195.72] One -[4195.72 --> 4195.86] Was -[4195.86 --> 4196.20] Awkward -[4196.20 --> 4198.48] Anyways -[4198.48 --> 4199.30] This -[4199.30 --> 4199.62] Show -[4199.62 --> 4199.82] It's -[4199.82 --> 4199.96] An -[4199.96 --> 4200.36] Interesting -[4200.36 --> 4200.84] Take -[4200.84 --> 4201.22] On -[4201.22 --> 4201.36] The -[4201.36 --> 4202.06] Afterlife -[4202.06 --> 4202.78] It's -[4202.78 --> 4202.98] Not -[4202.98 --> 4203.68] Theologically -[4203.68 --> 4204.04] Sound -[4204.04 --> 4204.18] At -[4204.18 --> 4204.38] All -[4204.38 --> 4204.94] But -[4204.94 --> 4205.04] It -[4205.04 --> 4205.20] Is -[4205.20 --> 4205.84] Fascinating -[4205.84 --> 4206.52] Because -[4206.52 --> 4206.72] It -[4206.72 --> 4207.12] Tackles -[4207.12 --> 4207.26] The -[4207.26 --> 4207.60] Issue -[4207.60 --> 4207.76] Of -[4207.76 --> 4207.88] The -[4207.88 --> 4208.46] Afterlife -[4208.46 --> 4209.46] I -[4209.46 --> 4209.58] Think -[4209.58 --> 4210.40] Sometimes -[4210.40 --> 4210.60] We -[4210.60 --> 4210.90] Actually -[4210.90 --> 4211.34] View -[4211.34 --> 4211.62] The -[4211.62 --> 4212.22] Afterlife -[4212.22 --> 4212.46] In -[4212.46 --> 4212.68] This -[4212.68 --> 4213.24] Light -[4213.24 --> 4213.54] Don't -[4213.54 --> 4213.70] We -[4213.70 --> 4214.18] We -[4214.18 --> 4214.70] We -[4214.70 --> 4215.22] We -[4215.22 --> 4215.48] Believe -[4215.48 --> 4215.62] We're -[4215.62 --> 4215.92] Going -[4215.92 --> 4216.12] To -[4216.12 --> 4216.32] This -[4216.32 --> 4216.62] Heaven -[4216.62 --> 4216.86] To -[4216.86 --> 4217.10] Live -[4217.10 --> 4217.26] In -[4217.26 --> 4217.62] House -[4217.62 --> 4217.80] That -[4217.80 --> 4217.88] Are -[4217.88 --> 4218.10] Kind -[4218.10 --> 4218.18] Of -[4218.18 --> 4218.46] Nicely -[4218.46 --> 4218.98] Designed -[4218.98 --> 4219.10] For -[4219.10 --> 4219.40] Us -[4219.40 --> 4219.60] And -[4219.60 --> 4219.88] We -[4219.88 --> 4219.98] Get -[4219.98 --> 4220.12] To -[4220.12 --> 4220.34] Live -[4220.34 --> 4220.54] With -[4220.54 --> 4220.84] People -[4220.84 --> 4221.02] That -[4221.02 --> 4221.24] Maybe -[4221.24 --> 4221.46] We -[4221.46 --> 4221.90] Were -[4221.90 --> 4222.06] Our -[4222.06 --> 4222.38] Soulmates -[4222.38 --> 4222.54] That -[4222.54 --> 4222.64] We -[4222.64 --> 4222.86] Didn't -[4222.86 --> 4223.04] Meet -[4223.04 --> 4223.22] On -[4223.22 --> 4223.46] Earth -[4223.46 --> 4223.66] Or -[4223.66 --> 4225.20] At -[4225.20 --> 4225.28] At -[4225.28 --> 4225.30] At -[4225.30 --> 4225.32] At -[4225.32 --> 4226.36] We -[4226.36 --> 4226.76] Wanted -[4226.76 --> 4226.90] To -[4226.90 --> 4227.12] See -[4227.12 --> 4227.66] Or -[4227.66 --> 4227.76] We -[4227.76 --> 4227.88] Get -[4227.88 --> 4227.98] To -[4227.98 --> 4228.22] Enjoy -[4228.22 --> 4228.64] Flavors -[4228.64 --> 4228.82] Of -[4228.82 --> 4229.08] Ice -[4229.08 --> 4229.28] Cream -[4229.28 --> 4229.46] That -[4229.46 --> 4229.86] Tastes -[4229.86 --> 4230.44] Like -[4230.44 --> 4230.58] The -[4230.58 --> 4230.78] Band -[4230.78 --> 4231.14] Mumford -[4231.14 --> 4231.30] And -[4231.30 --> 4231.52] Sounds -[4231.52 --> 4231.94] Sounds -[4231.94 --> 4233.08] And -[4233.08 --> 4233.30] It's -[4233.30 --> 4233.58] True -[4233.58 --> 4234.06] Maybe -[4234.06 --> 4234.38] I -[4234.38 --> 4234.60] Mean -[4234.60 --> 4234.82] Maybe -[4234.82 --> 4234.98] Not -[4234.98 --> 4235.08] The -[4235.08 --> 4235.24] Ice -[4235.24 --> 4235.38] Cream -[4235.38 --> 4235.70] Tasting -[4235.70 --> 4235.92] Like -[4235.92 --> 4236.04] Your -[4236.04 --> 4236.26] Favorite -[4236.26 --> 4236.52] Band -[4236.52 --> 4236.78] Part -[4236.78 --> 4237.70] But -[4237.70 --> 4237.84] I -[4237.84 --> 4238.00] Guess -[4238.00 --> 4238.20] Maybe -[4238.20 --> 4238.42] That's -[4238.42 --> 4238.74] Possible -[4238.74 --> 4239.02] Too -[4239.02 --> 4240.02] But -[4240.02 --> 4240.14] The -[4240.14 --> 4240.28] New -[4240.28 --> 4240.58] Earth -[4240.58 --> 4241.26] Will -[4241.26 --> 4241.46] Be -[4241.46 --> 4241.98] Glorious -[4241.98 --> 4243.28] It -[4243.28 --> 4243.44] Will -[4243.44 --> 4243.64] Have -[4243.64 --> 4244.08] Rivers -[4244.08 --> 4244.36] And -[4244.36 --> 4244.82] Trees -[4244.82 --> 4245.06] And -[4245.06 --> 4245.60] Gardens -[4245.60 --> 4246.16] And -[4246.16 --> 4246.62] Life -[4246.62 --> 4246.92] And -[4246.92 --> 4247.06] Not -[4247.06 --> 4247.22] Just -[4247.22 --> 4247.54] Human -[4247.54 --> 4247.84] Life -[4247.84 --> 4248.06] But -[4248.06 --> 4248.28] All -[4248.28 --> 4248.74] Kinds -[4248.74 --> 4248.88] Of -[4248.88 --> 4249.16] Life -[4249.16 --> 4249.62] And -[4249.62 --> 4249.74] There -[4249.74 --> 4249.84] Will -[4249.84 --> 4249.96] Be -[4249.96 --> 4250.50] Food -[4250.50 --> 4250.94] And -[4250.94 --> 4251.06] There -[4251.06 --> 4251.18] Will -[4251.18 --> 4251.30] Be -[4251.30 --> 4251.78] Drink -[4251.78 --> 4251.98] And -[4251.98 --> 4252.58] Unending -[4252.58 --> 4253.38] Sustenance -[4253.38 --> 4253.92] And -[4253.92 --> 4254.02] We -[4254.02 --> 4254.16] Will -[4254.16 --> 4254.62] Dance -[4254.62 --> 4254.78] And -[4254.78 --> 4254.92] We'll -[4254.92 --> 4255.38] Sing -[4255.38 --> 4255.86] And -[4255.86 --> 4256.06] We'll -[4256.06 --> 4256.40] Laugh -[4256.40 --> 4256.52] And -[4256.52 --> 4256.66] We'll -[4256.66 --> 4257.04] Play -[4257.04 --> 4257.24] And -[4257.24 --> 4257.60] All -[4257.60 --> 4257.92] Our -[4257.92 --> 4258.48] Earthly -[4258.48 --> 4259.04] Wounds -[4259.04 --> 4259.58] And -[4259.58 --> 4260.04] The -[4260.04 --> 4260.40] Physical -[4260.40 --> 4260.82] Ones -[4260.82 --> 4261.08] The -[4261.08 --> 4261.58] Emotional -[4261.58 --> 4261.92] Ones -[4261.92 --> 4262.08] They're -[4262.08 --> 4262.16] Going -[4262.16 --> 4262.20] To -[4262.20 --> 4262.32] Be -[4262.32 --> 4262.58] Fully -[4262.58 --> 4262.92] Healed -[4262.92 --> 4263.26] In -[4263.26 --> 4263.42] Fact -[4263.42 --> 4263.58] You'll -[4263.58 --> 4263.70] Have -[4263.70 --> 4263.92] No -[4263.92 --> 4264.24] Memory -[4264.24 --> 4264.44] Of -[4264.44 --> 4264.62] Them -[4264.62 --> 4265.38] No -[4265.38 --> 4265.74] Memory -[4265.74 --> 4265.92] Of -[4265.92 --> 4266.16] Pain -[4266.16 --> 4266.34] Will -[4266.34 --> 4266.76] Exist -[4266.76 --> 4267.82] And -[4267.82 --> 4267.94] There'll -[4267.94 --> 4268.04] Be -[4268.04 --> 4268.22] No -[4268.22 --> 4268.64] Darkness -[4268.64 --> 4269.18] And -[4269.18 --> 4269.32] No -[4269.32 --> 4270.08] Temptation -[4270.08 --> 4270.46] And -[4270.46 --> 4270.66] No -[4270.66 --> 4270.98] Guilt -[4270.98 --> 4271.14] And -[4271.14 --> 4271.28] No -[4271.28 --> 4271.62] Shame -[4271.62 --> 4271.76] And -[4271.76 --> 4271.92] No -[4271.92 --> 4272.36] Fear -[4272.36 --> 4272.84] Only -[4272.84 --> 4273.28] Love -[4273.28 --> 4273.86] And -[4273.86 --> 4274.56] Fulfillment -[4274.56 --> 4275.12] And -[4275.12 --> 4275.60] Peace -[4275.60 --> 4276.40] And -[4276.40 --> 4276.88] Light -[4276.88 --> 4277.88] And -[4277.88 --> 4278.10] While -[4284.78 --> 4285.06] Our -[4285.06 --> 4286.00] Inheritance -[4286.00 --> 4286.26] As -[4286.26 --> 4286.54] Peter -[4286.54 --> 4286.92] Calls -[4286.92 --> 4287.04] It -[4287.04 --> 4287.38] Here -[4287.38 --> 4288.62] Is -[4288.62 --> 4288.82] A -[4288.82 --> 4289.08] Living -[4289.08 --> 4289.52] Hope -[4289.52 --> 4291.18] Not -[4291.18 --> 4291.34] A -[4291.34 --> 4291.78] Place -[4291.78 --> 4293.64] Not -[4293.64 --> 4293.78] A -[4293.78 --> 4294.20] Future -[4294.20 --> 4295.90] It's -[4295.90 --> 4296.18] A -[4296.18 --> 4296.66] Living -[4296.66 --> 4297.64] Hope -[4297.64 --> 4299.96] Jesus -[4299.96 --> 4300.90] Is -[4300.90 --> 4301.16] Our -[4301.16 --> 4301.92] Inheritance -[4301.92 --> 4303.24] And -[4303.24 --> 4303.48] He -[4303.48 --> 4303.70] Is -[4303.70 --> 4303.90] The -[4303.90 --> 4304.16] Living -[4304.16 --> 4304.44] Hope -[4304.44 --> 4304.62] That -[4304.62 --> 4304.74] We -[4304.74 --> 4304.86] Are -[4304.86 --> 4305.14] Born -[4305.14 --> 4305.48] Again -[4305.48 --> 4306.14] Into -[4306.14 --> 4306.38] This -[4306.38 --> 4307.22] Living -[4307.22 --> 4307.78] Hope -[4307.78 --> 4308.62] Jesus -[4308.62 --> 4308.90] Will -[4308.90 --> 4309.28] Allow -[4309.28 --> 4309.48] Us -[4309.48 --> 4309.66] To -[4309.66 --> 4310.04] Endure -[4310.04 --> 4310.40] Our -[4310.40 --> 4310.88] Lives -[4310.88 --> 4311.30] As -[4311.30 --> 4312.02] Exiles -[4312.02 --> 4312.30] In -[4312.30 --> 4312.50] This -[4312.50 --> 4312.84] World -[4312.84 --> 4313.92] And -[4313.92 --> 4314.18] Gives -[4314.18 --> 4314.40] Us -[4314.78 --> 4314.90] For -[4314.90 --> 4315.02] Our -[4315.02 --> 4315.40] Future -[4315.40 --> 4316.54] It's -[4316.54 --> 4316.74] Him -[4316.74 --> 4316.98] It's -[4316.98 --> 4317.36] Jesus -[4317.36 --> 4318.44] The -[4318.44 --> 4318.82] God -[4318.82 --> 4319.00] Who -[4319.00 --> 4319.38] Became -[4319.38 --> 4319.78] Flesh -[4319.78 --> 4320.22] And -[4320.22 --> 4320.68] Dwelled -[4320.68 --> 4320.96] With -[4320.96 --> 4321.16] Us -[4321.16 --> 4321.46] He -[4321.46 --> 4321.84] Lived -[4321.84 --> 4322.08] With -[4322.08 --> 4322.26] Us -[4322.26 --> 4322.74] Died -[4322.74 --> 4323.16] For -[4323.16 --> 4323.38] Us -[4323.38 --> 4323.56] In -[4323.56 --> 4323.78] Order -[4323.78 --> 4324.00] To -[4324.00 --> 4324.44] Save -[4324.44 --> 4324.78] Us -[4324.78 --> 4326.46] Jesus -[4326.46 --> 4326.74] Who -[4326.74 --> 4326.90] Is -[4326.90 --> 4327.68] Imperishable -[4327.68 --> 4327.96] As -[4327.96 --> 4328.10] Our -[4328.10 --> 4328.34] Text -[4328.34 --> 4328.64] Says -[4328.64 --> 4329.12] Death -[4329.12 --> 4329.36] Could -[4329.36 --> 4329.54] Not -[4329.54 --> 4329.78] Hold -[4329.78 --> 4329.94] Him -[4329.94 --> 4330.18] Down -[4330.18 --> 4330.74] Jesus -[4330.74 --> 4331.00] Who -[4331.00 --> 4331.14] Is -[4331.14 --> 4332.12] Undefiled -[4332.12 --> 4332.70] Satan -[4332.70 --> 4332.94] Could -[4332.94 --> 4333.12] Not -[4333.12 --> 4333.44] Taint -[4333.44 --> 4333.62] Him -[4333.62 --> 4333.84] With -[4333.84 --> 4334.10] Sin -[4334.10 --> 4334.74] Jesus -[4334.74 --> 4335.04] Who -[4335.04 --> 4335.20] Is -[4335.20 --> 4335.94] Unfading -[4335.94 --> 4336.52] He -[4336.52 --> 4337.04] Shines -[4337.04 --> 4337.24] In -[4337.24 --> 4337.60] Glory -[4337.60 --> 4338.08] Now -[4338.08 --> 4338.72] As -[4338.72 --> 4338.96] Much -[4338.96 --> 4339.20] Now -[4339.20 --> 4339.34] As -[4339.34 --> 4339.44] He -[4339.44 --> 4339.68] Did -[4339.68 --> 4339.88] When -[4344.78 --> 4345.18] Shine -[4345.18 --> 4346.00] Throughout -[4346.00 --> 4346.28] All -[4346.28 --> 4346.42] Of -[4346.42 --> 4346.78] Time -[4346.78 --> 4348.24] Jesus -[4348.24 --> 4348.68] Is -[4348.68 --> 4348.98] Our -[4348.98 --> 4349.74] Inheritance -[4349.74 --> 4350.26] Who -[4350.26 --> 4350.62] Doesn't -[4350.62 --> 4351.14] Perish -[4351.14 --> 4351.76] Or -[4351.76 --> 4352.42] Spoil -[4352.42 --> 4353.10] Or -[4353.10 --> 4353.60] Fade -[4353.60 --> 4354.80] And -[4354.80 --> 4356.36] We -[4356.36 --> 4356.66] Don't -[4356.66 --> 4357.02] Deserve -[4357.02 --> 4357.30] Him -[4357.30 --> 4358.44] We -[4358.44 --> 4358.88] Cannot -[4358.88 --> 4359.18] Earn -[4359.18 --> 4359.54] Him -[4359.54 --> 4361.12] We're -[4361.12 --> 4361.32] Not -[4361.32 --> 4361.74] Worthy -[4361.74 --> 4361.88] Of -[4361.88 --> 4362.08] Him -[4362.08 --> 4362.48] But -[4362.48 --> 4363.98] Is -[4363.98 --> 4364.92] Gracious -[4364.92 --> 4365.30] And -[4365.30 --> 4365.58] He -[4365.58 --> 4365.84] Has -[4365.84 --> 4366.34] Saved -[4366.34 --> 4366.52] Us -[4366.52 --> 4366.82] Because -[4366.82 --> 4367.20] He -[4367.20 --> 4368.08] Loves -[4368.08 --> 4368.70] You -[4368.70 --> 4369.78] He -[4369.78 --> 4370.08] Loves -[4370.08 --> 4370.32] Me -[4370.32 --> 4370.52] He -[4370.52 --> 4370.86] Loves -[4370.86 --> 4371.36] Us -[4371.36 --> 4373.82] By -[4373.82 --> 4374.04] His -[4374.04 --> 4374.38] Grace -[4374.38 --> 4374.58] He -[4374.58 --> 4375.18] Calls -[4375.18 --> 4375.42] Us -[4375.42 --> 4375.74] To -[4375.74 --> 4375.94] Him -[4375.94 --> 4376.10] He -[4376.10 --> 4377.42] Longs -[4377.42 --> 4377.64] For -[4377.64 --> 4377.98] Us -[4377.98 --> 4378.70] He -[4378.70 --> 4379.18] Is -[4379.18 --> 4379.62] Our -[4379.62 --> 4380.12] Living -[4380.12 --> 4380.86] Hope -[4380.86 --> 4385.20] This -[4385.20 --> 4385.46] Theme -[4385.46 --> 4385.76] Comes -[4385.76 --> 4385.94] Up -[4385.94 --> 4386.28] Like I -[4386.28 --> 4386.44] Said -[4386.44 --> 4386.74] Time -[4386.74 --> 4386.88] And -[4386.88 --> 4387.14] Time -[4387.14 --> 4387.46] Again -[4387.46 --> 4388.70] And -[4388.70 --> 4388.82] I -[4388.82 --> 4388.98] Think -[4388.98 --> 4389.16] The -[4389.16 --> 4389.44] Reason -[4389.44 --> 4389.64] It -[4389.64 --> 4389.84] Does -[4389.84 --> 4389.96] Is -[4389.96 --> 4390.18] Because -[4390.18 --> 4390.36] We -[4390.36 --> 4390.50] Need -[4390.50 --> 4390.60] To -[4390.60 --> 4390.72] Be -[4390.72 --> 4391.20] Reminded -[4391.20 --> 4391.36] Of -[4391.36 --> 4391.48] It -[4391.48 --> 4391.74] Time -[4391.74 --> 4391.90] And -[4391.90 --> 4392.16] Time -[4392.16 --> 4392.56] Again -[4392.56 --> 4394.22] Our -[4394.22 --> 4394.60] Eternal -[4394.60 --> 4395.12] Futures -[4395.12 --> 4395.50] With -[4395.50 --> 4395.82] Christ -[4395.82 --> 4396.28] Dwelling -[4396.28 --> 4396.46] In -[4396.46 --> 4396.58] The -[4396.58 --> 4396.74] New -[4396.74 --> 4397.04] Heaven -[4397.04 --> 4397.26] And -[4397.26 --> 4397.38] The -[4397.38 --> 4397.54] New -[4397.54 --> 4397.76] Earth -[4397.76 --> 4397.96] With -[4397.96 --> 4398.10] Him -[4398.10 --> 4398.32] Our -[4398.32 --> 4398.98] Inheritance -[4398.98 --> 4399.20] That -[4399.20 --> 4399.44] Is -[4399.44 --> 4399.82] Jesus -[4399.82 --> 4400.24] Christ -[4400.24 --> 4400.74] It's -[4400.74 --> 4400.96] Something -[4400.96 --> 4401.16] We -[4401.16 --> 4401.30] Have -[4401.30 --> 4401.44] A -[4401.44 --> 4401.72] Hard -[4401.72 --> 4402.00] Time -[4402.00 --> 4402.26] Doing -[4402.26 --> 4402.42] We -[4402.42 --> 4402.52] Have -[4402.52 --> 4402.64] A -[4402.64 --> 4402.92] Hard -[4402.92 --> 4403.24] Time -[4403.24 --> 4403.78] Focusing -[4403.78 --> 4404.46] On -[4404.46 --> 4404.74] That -[4404.74 --> 4405.28] Hope -[4405.28 --> 4405.80] In -[4405.80 --> 4405.92] The -[4405.92 --> 4406.26] Future -[4406.26 --> 4408.74] We -[4408.74 --> 4409.26] Exist -[4409.26 --> 4409.46] In -[4409.46 --> 4409.64] This -[4409.64 --> 4410.16] World -[4410.16 --> 4410.94] Victims -[4410.94 --> 4411.16] Of -[4411.16 --> 4411.60] Time -[4411.60 --> 4411.94] Don't -[4411.94 --> 4412.14] We -[4412.14 --> 4412.64] Because -[4412.64 --> 4412.80] Of -[4412.80 --> 4412.90] That -[4412.90 --> 4413.06] It's -[4413.06 --> 4413.50] Difficult -[4413.50 --> 4414.14] Seeing -[4414.14 --> 4414.68] Beyond -[4414.68 --> 4415.50] Our -[4415.50 --> 4415.96] Time -[4415.96 --> 4416.30] Here -[4416.30 --> 4416.56] On -[4416.56 --> 4416.80] This -[4416.80 --> 4417.32] World -[4417.32 --> 4417.60] As -[4417.60 --> 4418.38] Exiles -[4418.38 --> 4418.94] In -[4418.94 --> 4419.28] Langley -[4419.28 --> 4419.58] BC -[4419.58 --> 4419.82] We -[4419.82 --> 4420.38] Find -[4420.38 --> 4420.50] It -[4420.50 --> 4420.76] Hard -[4420.76 --> 4420.92] To -[4420.92 --> 4421.08] Have -[4421.08 --> 4421.26] That -[4421.26 --> 4421.74] Eternal -[4421.74 --> 4422.70] Focus -[4422.70 --> 4423.14] To -[4423.14 --> 4423.26] Put -[4423.26 --> 4423.40] Our -[4423.40 --> 4423.70] Hope -[4423.70 --> 4423.86] In -[4423.86 --> 4424.02] This -[4424.02 --> 4424.86] Inheritance -[4424.86 --> 4427.30] And -[4427.30 --> 4427.42] To -[4427.42 --> 4427.94] Understand -[4427.94 --> 4428.18] That -[4428.18 --> 4428.36] This -[4428.36 --> 4429.06] Inheritance -[4429.06 --> 4429.64] Is -[4429.64 --> 4429.80] A -[4429.80 --> 4430.36] Certainty -[4430.36 --> 4430.62] For -[4430.62 --> 4430.82] Us -[4430.82 --> 4430.96] If -[4430.96 --> 4431.08] We -[4431.08 --> 4431.42] Believe -[4431.42 --> 4432.94] We -[4432.94 --> 4433.04] Have -[4433.04 --> 4433.14] A -[4433.14 --> 4433.44] Difficult -[4433.44 --> 4433.72] Time -[4433.72 --> 4434.00] Wrapping -[4434.00 --> 4434.16] Our -[4434.16 --> 4434.36] Heads -[4434.36 --> 4434.58] Around -[4434.58 --> 4434.74] This -[4434.74 --> 4435.14] Glorious -[4435.14 --> 4435.52] Promise -[4435.52 --> 4435.74] For -[4435.74 --> 4435.86] Us -[4435.86 --> 4436.82] Because -[4436.82 --> 4436.96] We -[4436.96 --> 4437.22] Don't -[4437.22 --> 4437.68] Look -[4437.68 --> 4438.12] Far -[4438.12 --> 4438.36] Enough -[4438.36 --> 4438.72] Ahead -[4438.72 --> 4438.92] We -[4438.92 --> 4439.70] Look -[4439.70 --> 4439.98] To -[4439.98 --> 4440.12] The -[4440.12 --> 4440.60] Future -[4440.60 --> 4441.66] And -[4441.66 --> 4441.80] We -[4441.80 --> 4442.48] Fear -[4442.48 --> 4442.76] It -[4442.76 --> 4443.10] We -[4443.10 --> 4443.58] Fear -[4443.58 --> 4443.86] Our -[4443.86 --> 4444.40] Futures -[4444.40 --> 4444.60] And -[4444.60 --> 4445.10] Maybe -[4445.10 --> 4445.36] It's -[4445.36 --> 4446.14] Deadlines -[4446.14 --> 4446.42] For -[4446.42 --> 4446.68] Work -[4446.68 --> 4446.84] Or -[4446.84 --> 4447.58] Assignments -[4447.58 --> 4447.80] For -[4447.80 --> 4448.10] School -[4448.10 --> 4448.34] Maybe -[4448.34 --> 4448.80] It's -[4448.80 --> 4449.02] It's -[4449.02 --> 4449.50] Broken -[4449.50 --> 4450.74] Relationships -[4450.74 --> 4450.94] Or -[4450.94 --> 4451.12] It's -[4451.12 --> 4452.08] Unemployment -[4452.08 --> 4452.52] Maybe -[4452.52 --> 4452.80] It's -[4452.80 --> 4453.04] It's -[4453.04 --> 4453.44] Fear -[4453.44 --> 4453.58] Of -[4453.58 --> 4453.70] Where -[4453.70 --> 4453.86] The -[4453.86 --> 4454.18] World -[4454.18 --> 4454.40] Is -[4454.40 --> 4454.76] Going -[4454.76 --> 4455.08] Or -[4455.08 --> 4455.52] The -[4455.52 --> 4455.98] Government -[4455.98 --> 4456.22] Where -[4456.22 --> 4456.42] It's -[4456.42 --> 4456.82] Leading -[4456.82 --> 4457.18] Us -[4457.18 --> 4457.36] Or -[4457.36 --> 4457.76] The -[4457.76 --> 4457.96] Fear -[4457.96 --> 4458.10] Of -[4458.10 --> 4458.30] Not -[4458.30 --> 4458.68] Living -[4458.68 --> 4458.98] Up -[4458.98 --> 4459.18] To -[4459.18 --> 4459.46] People -[4459.46 --> 4459.64] In -[4459.64 --> 4459.78] Our -[4459.78 --> 4460.14] Lives -[4460.14 --> 4461.14] Expectations -[4461.14 --> 4463.18] Here -[4463.18 --> 4463.36] Our -[4463.36 --> 4463.74] Future -[4463.74 --> 4465.68] There's -[4465.68 --> 4465.94] Pain -[4465.94 --> 4466.06] In -[4466.06 --> 4466.18] Our -[4466.18 --> 4466.56] Present -[4466.56 --> 4466.92] Too -[4466.92 --> 4467.50] We -[4467.50 --> 4467.60] Have -[4467.60 --> 4467.72] A -[4467.72 --> 4467.92] Hard -[4467.92 --> 4468.14] Time -[4468.14 --> 4468.40] Looking -[4468.40 --> 4468.56] To -[4468.56 --> 4468.74] This -[4468.74 --> 4469.08] Eternal -[4469.08 --> 4469.36] Living -[4469.36 --> 4469.60] Hope -[4469.60 --> 4469.86] Because -[4469.86 --> 4470.10] There's -[4470.10 --> 4470.66] Pain -[4470.66 --> 4471.20] And -[4471.20 --> 4471.46] There's -[4471.46 --> 4472.04] Suffering -[4472.04 --> 4472.60] In -[4472.60 --> 4472.74] The -[4472.74 --> 4473.18] Now -[4473.18 --> 4475.24] This -[4475.24 --> 4475.50] Past -[4475.50 --> 4475.82] Thursday -[4475.82 --> 4476.00] Was -[4476.00 --> 4476.24] Truth -[4476.24 --> 4476.38] And -[4476.38 --> 4476.96] Reconciliation -[4476.96 --> 4477.26] Day -[4477.26 --> 4477.40] Our -[4477.40 --> 4477.62] First -[4477.62 --> 4478.32] Holiday -[4478.32 --> 4479.06] Where -[4479.06 --> 4479.20] We're -[4479.20 --> 4479.34] To -[4479.34 --> 4479.72] Reflect -[4479.72 --> 4479.84] On -[4479.84 --> 4479.98] The -[4479.98 --> 4480.42] Horrors -[4480.42 --> 4480.64] That -[4484.18 --> 4484.58] In -[4484.58 --> 4485.34] Residential -[4485.34 --> 4485.70] Schools -[4485.70 --> 4486.04] Throughout -[4486.04 --> 4486.28] This -[4486.28 --> 4486.66] Country -[4486.66 --> 4488.04] That's -[4488.04 --> 4488.58] Painful -[4488.58 --> 4490.68] Beyond -[4490.68 --> 4491.34] Tragic -[4491.34 --> 4491.94] And -[4491.94 --> 4492.04] I -[4492.04 --> 4492.14] Think -[4492.14 --> 4492.40] Most -[4492.40 --> 4492.52] Of -[4492.52 --> 4492.64] Us -[4492.64 --> 4492.82] Feel -[4492.82 --> 4492.92] A -[4492.92 --> 4493.02] Little -[4493.02 --> 4493.82] Paralyzed -[4493.82 --> 4494.10] Because -[4494.10 --> 4494.28] We're -[4494.28 --> 4494.70] Uncertain -[4494.70 --> 4494.90] With -[4494.90 --> 4495.02] How -[4495.02 --> 4495.16] To -[4495.16 --> 4495.46] Work -[4495.46 --> 4496.14] Through -[4496.14 --> 4496.60] That -[4496.60 --> 4499.00] God -[4499.00 --> 4499.38] Calls -[4499.38 --> 4499.50] Us -[4499.50 --> 4499.64] To -[4499.64 --> 4500.32] Reconciliation -[4500.32 --> 4500.90] With -[4500.90 --> 4501.42] Each -[4501.42 --> 4501.68] Other -[4501.68 --> 4501.86] With -[4501.86 --> 4502.24] People -[4502.24 --> 4502.46] Who -[4502.46 --> 4502.60] Are -[4502.60 --> 4503.00] Hurting -[4503.00 --> 4503.18] In -[4503.18 --> 4503.30] The -[4503.30 --> 4503.98] Present -[4503.98 --> 4504.54] The -[4504.54 --> 4504.84] People -[4504.84 --> 4505.42] Whom -[4505.42 --> 4505.58] We -[4505.58 --> 4505.76] Have -[4505.76 --> 4506.00] Hurt -[4506.00 --> 4506.22] The -[4506.22 --> 4506.54] Most -[4506.54 --> 4508.26] People -[4508.26 --> 4508.50] Who -[4508.50 --> 4508.68] Have -[4508.68 --> 4508.88] Hurt -[4508.88 --> 4509.26] Us -[4509.26 --> 4509.90] The -[4509.90 --> 4510.22] Most -[4510.22 --> 4512.94] We -[4512.94 --> 4513.04] Have -[4513.04 --> 4513.14] So -[4513.14 --> 4513.30] Much -[4513.30 --> 4514.00] Reconciliation -[4514.00 --> 4514.30] To -[4514.30 --> 4514.48] Do -[4514.48 --> 4514.66] Here -[4514.66 --> 4514.82] With -[4514.82 --> 4514.94] Our -[4514.94 --> 4515.38] Family -[4515.38 --> 4515.58] And -[4515.58 --> 4515.72] Our -[4515.72 --> 4516.14] Neighbors -[4516.14 --> 4516.32] And -[4516.32 --> 4516.44] Our -[4516.44 --> 4516.76] Brothers -[4516.76 --> 4516.98] And -[4516.98 --> 4517.14] Our -[4517.14 --> 4517.46] Sisters -[4517.46 --> 4517.86] Here -[4517.86 --> 4518.00] And -[4518.00 --> 4518.26] Now -[4518.26 --> 4519.90] That -[4519.90 --> 4520.06] It -[4520.06 --> 4520.66] Clouds -[4520.66 --> 4520.80] Our -[4520.80 --> 4521.06] View -[4521.06 --> 4521.26] Of -[4521.26 --> 4521.50] This -[4521.50 --> 4522.38] Glorious -[4522.38 --> 4522.82] Future -[4522.82 --> 4523.06] This -[4523.06 --> 4523.50] Living -[4523.50 --> 4523.94] Hope -[4523.94 --> 4525.94] We -[4525.94 --> 4526.14] Also -[4526.14 --> 4526.48] Struggle -[4526.48 --> 4526.74] Looking -[4526.74 --> 4527.08] Back -[4527.08 --> 4527.30] Don't -[4527.30 --> 4527.44] We -[4527.44 --> 4527.66] We -[4527.66 --> 4528.20] We -[4528.20 --> 4528.24] We -[4528.24 --> 4528.26] We -[4528.26 --> 4528.28] We -[4528.28 --> 4528.30] We -[4528.30 --> 4528.32] We -[4528.32 --> 4530.32] We -[4530.32 --> 4530.36] Second -[4530.36 --> 4530.72] Guess -[4530.72 --> 4531.32] Decisions -[4531.32 --> 4531.66] We've -[4531.66 --> 4531.94] Made -[4531.94 --> 4533.22] We've -[4533.22 --> 4533.42] Made -[4533.42 --> 4534.06] Mistakes -[4534.06 --> 4534.24] That -[4534.24 --> 4534.36] We -[4534.36 --> 4534.58] Think -[4534.58 --> 4534.74] We -[4534.74 --> 4535.00] Can't -[4535.00 --> 4535.16] Be -[4535.16 --> 4535.52] Free -[4535.52 --> 4535.96] From -[4535.96 --> 4536.60] We're -[4536.60 --> 4537.04] Haunted -[4537.04 --> 4537.26] By -[4537.26 --> 4537.74] Trauma -[4537.74 --> 4538.38] Maybe -[4538.38 --> 4538.58] We -[4538.58 --> 4538.86] Can't -[4538.86 --> 4539.34] Escape -[4544.00 --> 4544.22] We've -[4544.22 --> 4544.54] Committed -[4544.54 --> 4544.74] Our -[4544.74 --> 4545.10] Past -[4545.10 --> 4545.56] Stays -[4545.56 --> 4545.82] With -[4545.82 --> 4546.16] Us -[4546.16 --> 4547.78] Due -[4547.78 --> 4547.92] To -[4547.92 --> 4548.24] Social -[4548.24 --> 4548.56] Media -[4548.56 --> 4548.72] And -[4548.72 --> 4548.86] How -[4548.86 --> 4549.02] Our -[4549.02 --> 4549.28] Lives -[4549.28 --> 4549.42] Are -[4549.42 --> 4549.66] Playing -[4549.66 --> 4549.86] Out -[4549.86 --> 4550.26] Online -[4550.26 --> 4550.54] Right -[4550.54 --> 4550.76] Now -[4550.76 --> 4551.00] If -[4551.00 --> 4551.18] You're -[4551.18 --> 4551.40] Like -[4551.40 --> 4551.92] 23 -[4551.92 --> 4552.26] And -[4552.26 --> 4552.64] Younger -[4552.64 --> 4553.76] You're -[4553.76 --> 4553.88] The -[4553.88 --> 4554.08] First -[4554.08 --> 4554.62] Generation -[4554.62 --> 4554.86] Of -[4554.86 --> 4555.12] People -[4555.12 --> 4555.26] To -[4555.26 --> 4555.40] Have -[4555.40 --> 4555.64] All -[4555.64 --> 4555.80] Your -[4555.80 --> 4556.42] Mistakes -[4556.42 --> 4557.94] Documented -[4557.94 --> 4558.06] To -[4558.06 --> 4558.22] Be -[4558.22 --> 4558.56] Viewed -[4558.56 --> 4558.74] For -[4558.74 --> 4558.90] All -[4558.90 --> 4559.02] Of -[4559.02 --> 4559.42] History -[4559.42 --> 4561.84] That -[4561.84 --> 4562.26] Socks -[4562.26 --> 4564.06] We -[4564.06 --> 4564.14] Have -[4564.14 --> 4564.24] A -[4564.24 --> 4564.58] Hard -[4564.58 --> 4565.14] Time -[4565.14 --> 4565.42] Even -[4565.42 --> 4565.58] An -[4565.58 --> 4566.10] Impossible -[4566.10 --> 4566.46] Time -[4566.46 --> 4566.88] Shaking -[4566.88 --> 4567.22] Free -[4567.22 --> 4567.40] Of -[4567.40 --> 4567.72] That -[4567.72 --> 4570.08] So -[4570.08 --> 4570.16] We -[4570.16 --> 4570.48] Fear -[4570.48 --> 4570.68] Our -[4570.68 --> 4571.08] Future -[4571.08 --> 4572.56] We're -[4572.56 --> 4573.00] Burdened -[4573.00 --> 4573.18] From -[4573.18 --> 4573.34] Our -[4573.34 --> 4573.80] Past -[4573.80 --> 4574.64] And -[4574.64 --> 4574.72] It -[4574.72 --> 4575.22] Muddies -[4575.22 --> 4575.40] Our -[4575.40 --> 4575.90] Presence -[4575.90 --> 4578.38] Peter -[4578.38 --> 4578.60] In -[4578.60 --> 4578.78] This -[4578.78 --> 4579.14] Text -[4579.14 --> 4579.38] Is -[4579.38 --> 4579.96] Calling -[4579.96 --> 4580.28] Us -[4580.28 --> 4580.92] He's -[4580.92 --> 4581.22] Just -[4581.22 --> 4582.06] Imploring -[4582.06 --> 4582.46] Us -[4582.46 --> 4583.32] Look -[4583.32 --> 4583.74] Ahead -[4583.74 --> 4584.26] To -[4584.26 --> 4584.76] Seek -[4584.76 --> 4585.20] Our -[4585.20 --> 4585.76] Eternal -[4585.76 --> 4586.76] Living -[4586.76 --> 4587.48] Hope -[4587.48 --> 4587.88] To -[4587.88 --> 4588.22] Know -[4588.22 --> 4588.40] That -[4588.40 --> 4588.54] Our -[4588.54 --> 4589.04] Futures -[4589.04 --> 4589.40] Are -[4589.40 --> 4590.16] Secure -[4590.16 --> 4590.38] Our -[4590.38 --> 4590.82] Past -[4590.82 --> 4591.44] Are -[4591.44 --> 4591.76] For -[4591.76 --> 4591.98] Given -[4591.98 --> 4592.40] Our -[4592.40 --> 4592.88] Presence -[4592.88 --> 4593.04] Are -[4593.04 --> 4593.16] To -[4593.16 --> 4593.30] Be -[4593.30 --> 4593.66] Given -[4593.66 --> 4594.18] To -[4594.18 --> 4594.34] The -[4594.34 --> 4594.84] Living -[4594.84 --> 4595.72] King -[4595.72 --> 4596.12] Our -[4596.12 --> 4596.74] Living -[4596.74 --> 4597.44] Hope -[4597.44 --> 4598.10] Here -[4598.10 --> 4598.32] In -[4598.32 --> 4598.54] This -[4598.54 --> 4598.80] World -[4598.80 --> 4599.24] Here -[4599.24 --> 4599.48] In -[4599.48 --> 4599.76] Our -[4599.76 --> 4600.30] Lives -[4600.30 --> 4601.10] We're -[4601.10 --> 4601.20] To -[4601.20 --> 4601.40] Go -[4601.40 --> 4602.04] For -[4602.04 --> 4602.50] Free -[4602.50 --> 4602.76] From -[4602.76 --> 4602.94] The -[4602.94 --> 4603.44] Shackles -[4603.44 --> 4603.62] Of -[4603.62 --> 4603.98] Sin -[4603.98 --> 4604.48] And -[4604.48 --> 4604.68] Death -[4604.68 --> 4605.08] Not -[4605.08 --> 4605.68] Fearing -[4605.68 --> 4606.00] Our -[4606.00 --> 4606.58] Futures -[4606.58 --> 4607.48] But -[4607.48 --> 4608.08] Resting -[4608.08 --> 4608.26] In -[4608.26 --> 4608.40] The -[4608.40 --> 4608.74] Hope -[4608.74 --> 4609.30] Of -[4609.30 --> 4609.48] Our -[4609.48 --> 4610.06] Eternity -[4610.06 --> 4610.28] With -[4610.28 --> 4610.52] God -[4610.52 --> 4610.96] Not -[4610.96 --> 4611.58] Burdened -[4611.58 --> 4611.78] From -[4611.78 --> 4611.94] Our -[4611.94 --> 4612.38] Past -[4612.38 --> 4612.84] But -[4612.84 --> 4613.14] Knowing -[4613.14 --> 4613.34] That -[4613.34 --> 4613.46] Our -[4613.46 --> 4613.92] Sins -[4613.92 --> 4614.54] Are -[4614.54 --> 4615.22] Forgiven -[4615.22 --> 4615.36] And -[4615.36 --> 4615.52] The -[4615.52 --> 4615.90] Suffering -[4615.90 --> 4616.06] That -[4616.06 --> 4616.26] We've -[4616.26 --> 4616.56] Gone -[4616.56 --> 4616.84] Through -[4616.84 --> 4617.42] In -[4617.42 --> 4617.56] The -[4617.56 --> 4617.78] End -[4617.78 --> 4617.98] Will -[4617.98 --> 4618.44] Somehow -[4618.44 --> 4618.86] Bring -[4618.86 --> 4619.28] God -[4619.28 --> 4620.10] Glory -[4620.10 --> 4621.32] And -[4621.32 --> 4621.40] We're -[4621.40 --> 4621.42] We're -[4621.42 --> 4621.64] To -[4621.64 --> 4623.52] We're -[4623.52 --> 4625.44] To -[4625.44 --> 4626.40] We're -[4626.40 --> 4627.48] To -[4627.48 --> 4627.74] At -[4627.74 --> 4627.84] A -[4627.84 --> 4628.28] Time -[4628.28 --> 4629.42] Towards -[4629.42 --> 4629.66] The -[4629.66 --> 4629.86] Living -[4629.86 --> 4630.20] Hope -[4630.20 --> 4630.70] Who -[4630.70 --> 4630.80] Is -[4630.80 --> 4631.10] Jesus -[4631.10 --> 4631.48] Christ -[4631.48 --> 4633.42] First -[4633.42 --> 4633.84] Peter -[4633.84 --> 4634.94] Is -[4634.94 --> 4635.18] About -[4635.18 --> 4635.64] This -[4635.64 --> 4637.46] That -[4637.46 --> 4637.80] Hope -[4637.80 --> 4638.28] Our -[4638.28 --> 4639.08] Assuredness -[4639.08 --> 4639.32] That -[4639.32 --> 4639.72] Christ -[4639.72 --> 4640.42] Is -[4640.42 --> 4640.88] Our -[4640.88 --> 4641.16] Living -[4641.16 --> 4641.44] Hope -[4641.44 --> 4641.74] And -[4641.74 --> 4641.92] He -[4641.92 --> 4642.16] Will -[4642.16 --> 4642.40] Come -[4642.40 --> 4642.70] Again -[4642.70 --> 4643.84] We -[4643.84 --> 4644.06] Can -[4644.06 --> 4644.44] Live -[4644.44 --> 4644.86] With -[4644.86 --> 4645.06] The -[4645.06 --> 4645.68] Certainty -[4645.68 --> 4645.86] That -[4645.86 --> 4646.06] This -[4646.06 --> 4646.20] Is -[4646.20 --> 4646.50] True -[4646.50 --> 4649.08] We -[4649.08 --> 4649.24] Can -[4649.24 --> 4649.48] Love -[4649.48 --> 4649.80] God -[4649.80 --> 4649.92] And -[4649.92 --> 4650.04] We -[4650.04 --> 4650.16] Can -[4650.16 --> 4650.44] We -[4650.44 --> 4650.62] Can -[4650.62 --> 4651.08] Rejoice -[4651.08 --> 4651.24] In -[4651.24 --> 4651.40] Him -[4651.40 --> 4651.64] And -[4651.64 --> 4651.72] We -[4651.72 --> 4651.88] Can -[4651.88 --> 4652.22] Believe -[4652.22 --> 4652.50] In -[4652.50 --> 4652.68] This -[4652.68 --> 4653.06] Gospel -[4653.06 --> 4653.40] Truth -[4653.40 --> 4654.10] Even -[4654.10 --> 4654.78] While -[4654.78 --> 4655.90] We -[4655.90 --> 4656.00] Are -[4656.00 --> 4656.68] Furious -[4656.68 --> 4657.36] Or -[4657.36 --> 4658.04] Frustrated -[4658.04 --> 4658.28] With -[4658.28 --> 4658.64] God -[4658.64 --> 4659.20] And -[4659.20 --> 4659.32] The -[4659.32 --> 4659.84] Suffering -[4659.84 --> 4660.02] That -[4660.02 --> 4660.16] We -[4660.16 --> 4660.54] Endure -[4660.54 --> 4661.54] Or -[4661.54 --> 4661.66] If -[4661.66 --> 4661.72] We -[4661.72 --> 4661.80] Are -[4661.80 --> 4661.96] Being -[4661.96 --> 4662.68] Persecuted -[4662.68 --> 4662.82] In -[4662.82 --> 4662.96] Our -[4662.96 --> 4663.40] Culture -[4663.40 --> 4664.60] Which -[4664.60 --> 4664.72] Is -[4664.72 --> 4665.06] Becoming -[4665.06 --> 4665.32] More -[4665.32 --> 4665.46] And -[4665.46 --> 4665.62] More -[4665.62 --> 4666.00] Pagan -[4666.00 --> 4667.68] The -[4667.68 --> 4667.88] People -[4667.88 --> 4668.38] Peter -[4668.38 --> 4668.62] Is -[4668.62 --> 4668.90] Writing -[4668.90 --> 4669.12] To -[4669.12 --> 4669.28] Were -[4669.28 --> 4669.82] Suffering -[4669.82 --> 4670.42] In -[4670.42 --> 4670.58] A -[4670.58 --> 4671.00] Pagan -[4671.00 --> 4671.96] Culture -[4671.96 --> 4672.92] And -[4672.92 --> 4673.06] In -[4673.06 --> 4673.26] Many -[4673.26 --> 4673.76] Ways -[4673.76 --> 4674.40] That -[4674.40 --> 4674.54] Is -[4674.54 --> 4674.90] Happening -[4674.90 --> 4675.18] Now -[4675.18 --> 4675.52] Here -[4675.52 --> 4675.70] In -[4675.70 --> 4675.82] The -[4675.82 --> 4676.06] West -[4676.06 --> 4676.60] As -[4676.60 --> 4676.74] The -[4676.74 --> 4676.98] Sermon -[4676.98 --> 4677.20] Series -[4677.20 --> 4677.68] Continues -[4677.68 --> 4678.16] We're -[4678.16 --> 4678.24] Going -[4678.24 --> 4678.32] To -[4678.32 --> 4678.50] Keep -[4678.50 --> 4679.30] Dissecting -[4679.30 --> 4679.44] What -[4679.44 --> 4679.56] It -[4679.56 --> 4679.80] Means -[4679.80 --> 4680.00] To -[4680.00 --> 4680.18] Live -[4680.18 --> 4680.36] As -[4680.36 --> 4680.82] Christians -[4680.82 --> 4681.12] In -[4681.12 --> 4681.30] A -[4681.30 --> 4681.62] Pagan -[4681.62 --> 4682.08] Culture -[4682.08 --> 4682.86] And -[4682.86 --> 4683.02] We'll -[4683.02 --> 4683.42] Continue -[4683.42 --> 4683.60] To -[4683.60 --> 4683.78] Pick -[4683.78 --> 4684.08] Apart -[4684.08 --> 4684.30] What -[4684.30 --> 4684.42] A -[4684.42 --> 4684.66] Pagan -[4684.66 --> 4685.02] Culture -[4685.02 --> 4685.32] Even -[4685.32 --> 4685.56] Looks -[4685.56 --> 4685.80] Like -[4685.80 --> 4686.24] But -[4686.24 --> 4686.42] Just -[4686.42 --> 4686.60] Off -[4686.60 --> 4686.74] The -[4686.74 --> 4686.94] Top -[4686.94 --> 4687.16] Right -[4687.16 --> 4687.44] Here -[4687.44 --> 4688.84] We -[4688.84 --> 4689.04] Need -[4689.04 --> 4689.20] To -[4689.20 --> 4690.80] Dispel -[4690.80 --> 4691.14] Some -[4691.14 --> 4691.76] Myths -[4691.76 --> 4691.98] Many -[4691.98 --> 4692.40] People -[4692.40 --> 4692.78] Believe -[4692.78 --> 4692.92] That -[4692.92 --> 4693.04] A -[4693.04 --> 4693.28] Pagan -[4699.82 --> 4700.94] What -[4700.94 --> 4701.52] Paganism -[4701.52 --> 4701.84] Was -[4701.84 --> 4701.98] In -[4701.98 --> 4702.44] Peter's -[4702.44 --> 4702.74] Day -[4702.74 --> 4702.90] And -[4702.90 --> 4703.08] What -[4703.08 --> 4703.54] Is -[4703.54 --> 4703.86] Growing -[4703.86 --> 4704.18] More -[4704.18 --> 4704.28] And -[4704.28 --> 4704.40] More -[4704.40 --> 4704.96] Prevalent -[4704.96 --> 4705.10] In -[4705.10 --> 4705.22] Our -[4705.22 --> 4705.44] World -[4705.44 --> 4705.74] Today -[4705.74 --> 4706.26] Is -[4706.26 --> 4706.42] The -[4706.42 --> 4706.76] Belief -[4706.76 --> 4706.92] That -[4706.92 --> 4707.06] We -[4707.06 --> 4707.24] Can -[4707.24 --> 4707.54] Bring -[4707.54 --> 4708.06] The -[4708.06 --> 4709.10] Transcendent -[4709.10 --> 4709.54] World -[4709.54 --> 4710.22] Into -[4710.22 --> 4710.42] The -[4710.42 --> 4710.86] Imminent -[4710.86 --> 4711.24] World -[4711.24 --> 4711.46] Or -[4711.46 --> 4712.54] To -[4712.54 --> 4712.64] Say -[4712.64 --> 4712.74] It -[4712.74 --> 4712.86] Maybe -[4712.86 --> 4713.00] A -[4713.00 --> 4713.08] Little -[4713.08 --> 4713.22] More -[4713.22 --> 4713.48] Simply -[4713.48 --> 4713.68] To -[4713.68 --> 4713.82] Bring -[4713.82 --> 4713.96] The -[4713.96 --> 4714.36] Spiritual -[4714.36 --> 4714.88] World -[4714.88 --> 4715.22] And -[4715.22 --> 4715.54] What -[4715.54 --> 4715.74] That -[4715.74 --> 4716.26] Entails -[4716.26 --> 4717.06] Into -[4717.06 --> 4717.46] Our -[4717.46 --> 4718.02] Reality -[4718.02 --> 4721.24] And -[4721.24 --> 4721.40] So -[4721.40 --> 4721.88] While -[4721.88 --> 4722.58] Atheism -[4722.58 --> 4722.74] Is -[4722.74 --> 4722.86] The -[4722.86 --> 4723.08] Belief -[4723.08 --> 4723.24] That -[4723.24 --> 4723.36] There -[4723.36 --> 4723.56] Is -[4723.56 --> 4723.70] No -[4723.70 --> 4724.02] God -[4724.02 --> 4724.44] Pagan -[4724.44 --> 4724.70] Is -[4724.70 --> 4724.96] The -[4724.96 --> 4725.16] Belief -[4729.82 --> 4730.18] That -[4730.18 --> 4730.34] You -[4730.34 --> 4730.52] Can -[4730.52 --> 4730.90] Somehow -[4730.90 --> 4731.30] Draw -[4731.30 --> 4731.62] Into -[4731.62 --> 4731.88] This -[4731.88 --> 4732.26] Life -[4732.26 --> 4732.46] And -[4732.46 --> 4732.76] Use -[4732.76 --> 4732.92] To -[4732.92 --> 4733.02] Your -[4733.02 --> 4733.20] Own -[4733.20 --> 4733.56] Bidding -[4733.56 --> 4734.68] So -[4734.68 --> 4734.92] Back -[4734.92 --> 4735.06] In -[4735.06 --> 4735.16] The -[4735.16 --> 4735.76] Greco -[4735.76 --> 4736.06] Roman -[4736.06 --> 4736.42] World -[4736.42 --> 4736.64] Where -[4736.64 --> 4736.90] Peter -[4736.90 --> 4737.12] Was -[4737.12 --> 4737.40] Writing -[4737.40 --> 4737.58] They -[4737.58 --> 4737.74] Had -[4737.74 --> 4738.06] Gods -[4738.06 --> 4738.18] They -[4738.18 --> 4738.30] Had -[4738.30 --> 4738.54] Gods -[4738.54 --> 4738.78] Like -[4738.78 --> 4739.90] Dionysus -[4739.90 --> 4740.08] The -[4740.08 --> 4740.28] God -[4740.28 --> 4740.42] Of -[4740.42 --> 4740.82] Wine -[4740.82 --> 4740.98] And -[4740.98 --> 4741.32] Athena -[4741.32 --> 4741.52] The -[4741.52 --> 4741.70] God -[4741.70 --> 4741.86] Of -[4741.86 --> 4742.32] Wisdom -[4742.32 --> 4742.54] And -[4742.54 --> 4743.40] Aphrodite -[4743.40 --> 4743.60] Or -[4743.60 --> 4743.88] Venus -[4743.88 --> 4744.08] The -[4744.08 --> 4744.26] God -[4744.26 --> 4744.38] Of -[4744.38 --> 4744.80] There -[4744.80 --> 4744.92] Were -[4744.92 --> 4745.18] So -[4745.18 --> 4745.46] Many -[4745.46 --> 4745.92] So -[4745.92 --> 4746.14] Many -[4746.14 --> 4746.40] Gods -[4746.40 --> 4747.00] Like -[4747.00 --> 4747.58] Jeff -[4747.58 --> 4747.78] The -[4747.78 --> 4747.94] God -[4747.94 --> 4748.08] Of -[4748.08 --> 4748.30] Pizza -[4748.30 --> 4748.60] Pops -[4748.60 --> 4748.76] Like -[4748.76 --> 4748.88] There -[4748.88 --> 4749.20] So -[4749.20 --> 4749.50] Many -[4749.50 --> 4750.04] Gods -[4750.04 --> 4750.62] Back -[4750.62 --> 4750.76] In -[4759.82 --> 4760.68] How -[4760.68 --> 4760.96] These -[4760.96 --> 4761.32] Gods -[4761.32 --> 4761.52] All -[4761.52 --> 4761.76] Kind -[4761.76 --> 4761.88] Of -[4761.88 --> 4762.40] Existed -[4762.40 --> 4762.62] Who -[4762.62 --> 4762.82] They -[4762.82 --> 4763.22] Actually -[4763.22 --> 4763.66] Were -[4763.66 --> 4763.98] Where -[4763.98 --> 4764.22] They -[4764.22 --> 4764.76] Lived -[4764.76 --> 4764.98] What -[4764.98 --> 4765.46] Form -[4765.46 --> 4765.66] They -[4765.66 --> 4766.02] Took -[4766.02 --> 4766.40] How -[4766.40 --> 4766.62] One -[4766.62 --> 4766.82] Was -[4766.82 --> 4767.12] Supposed -[4767.12 --> 4767.28] To -[4767.28 --> 4767.56] Reach -[4767.56 --> 4767.90] Out -[4767.90 --> 4768.12] To -[4768.12 --> 4768.56] Them -[4768.56 --> 4769.06] What -[4769.06 --> 4769.26] Their -[4769.26 --> 4769.82] Manner -[4769.82 --> 4770.30] Was -[4770.30 --> 4770.62] How -[4770.62 --> 4770.74] They -[4770.74 --> 4771.28] Worked -[4771.28 --> 4771.50] So -[4771.50 --> 4771.64] To -[4771.64 --> 4771.98] Speak -[4771.98 --> 4772.50] But -[4772.50 --> 4772.62] The -[4772.62 --> 4772.96] General -[4772.96 --> 4773.54] Consensus -[4773.54 --> 4773.76] Of -[4773.76 --> 4773.86] The -[4773.86 --> 4774.16] Time -[4774.16 --> 4774.54] Was -[4774.54 --> 4774.86] Gods -[4774.94 --> 4775.40] Existed -[4775.40 --> 4776.60] And -[4776.60 --> 4776.72] You -[4776.72 --> 4776.90] Could -[4776.90 --> 4777.38] Appease -[4777.38 --> 4777.60] Them -[4777.60 --> 4778.20] Somehow -[4778.20 --> 4778.42] For -[4778.42 --> 4778.56] Your -[4778.56 --> 4778.76] Own -[4778.76 --> 4779.22] Benefit -[4779.22 --> 4779.82] And -[4779.82 --> 4780.44] Displease -[4780.44 --> 4780.70] Them -[4780.70 --> 4781.22] Somehow -[4781.22 --> 4781.42] To -[4781.42 --> 4781.56] Your -[4781.56 --> 4781.74] Own -[4781.74 --> 4782.18] Detriment -[4782.18 --> 4783.54] That -[4783.54 --> 4784.28] Paganism -[4784.28 --> 4785.34] The -[4785.34 --> 4785.56] Idea -[4785.56 --> 4785.72] The -[4785.72 --> 4786.18] Spiritual -[4786.18 --> 4786.64] World -[4786.64 --> 4787.50] Exists -[4787.50 --> 4787.86] For -[4787.86 --> 4788.16] You -[4788.16 --> 4788.64] And -[4788.64 --> 4788.76] Your -[4788.76 --> 4789.24] Immediate -[4789.24 --> 4789.40] And -[4789.40 --> 4789.88] Earthly -[4789.88 --> 4790.48] Success -[4790.48 --> 4790.82] Or -[4790.82 --> 4791.14] Harm -[4791.14 --> 4791.48] Pending -[4791.48 --> 4791.64] On -[4791.64 --> 4791.76] How -[4791.76 --> 4791.94] You -[4791.94 --> 4792.28] Tap -[4792.28 --> 4792.52] Into -[4792.52 --> 4792.82] That -[4792.82 --> 4794.48] The -[4794.48 --> 4795.40] Transcendent -[4795.40 --> 4795.70] Could -[4795.70 --> 4796.12] Come -[4796.12 --> 4796.94] And -[4796.94 --> 4797.24] Affect -[4797.24 --> 4797.42] Your -[4797.42 --> 4797.92] Imminence -[4797.92 --> 4799.36] That -[4799.36 --> 4799.50] Was -[4799.50 --> 4799.66] The -[4799.66 --> 4799.90] World -[4799.90 --> 4800.08] That -[4800.08 --> 4800.32] Peter -[4800.32 --> 4800.52] Was -[4800.52 --> 4800.90] Writing -[4800.90 --> 4801.20] To -[4801.20 --> 4801.36] And -[4801.36 --> 4801.48] That -[4801.48 --> 4802.84] Is -[4802.84 --> 4803.14] Growing -[4803.14 --> 4803.44] More -[4803.44 --> 4803.58] And -[4803.58 --> 4803.72] More -[4803.72 --> 4804.30] Popular -[4804.30 --> 4804.66] In -[4804.66 --> 4804.90] Our -[4804.90 --> 4805.30] Western -[4805.30 --> 4805.94] Culture -[4805.94 --> 4807.08] The -[4807.08 --> 4807.32] More -[4807.32 --> 4807.46] And -[4807.46 --> 4807.66] More -[4807.66 --> 4807.94] Here -[4807.94 --> 4808.24] People -[4808.24 --> 4808.42] Are -[4808.42 --> 4808.86] Believing -[4808.86 --> 4809.08] In -[4809.08 --> 4809.32] Things -[4809.32 --> 4809.56] Like -[4809.56 --> 4810.68] Astrology -[4810.68 --> 4811.12] Or -[4811.12 --> 4811.90] Witchcraft -[4811.90 --> 4812.10] Or -[4812.10 --> 4812.56] Ouija -[4812.56 --> 4813.02] Boards -[4813.02 --> 4813.50] People -[4813.50 --> 4813.66] Are -[4815.56 --> 4815.80] Natural -[4815.80 --> 4816.40] Whatever -[4816.40 --> 4816.64] That -[4816.64 --> 4816.94] Means -[4816.94 --> 4817.36] And -[4817.36 --> 4817.48] Are -[4817.48 --> 4817.92] Trusting -[4817.92 --> 4818.10] That -[4818.10 --> 4818.66] Spirits -[4818.66 --> 4819.16] Whoever -[4819.16 --> 4819.38] They -[4819.38 --> 4819.68] Are -[4819.68 --> 4820.22] Can -[4820.22 --> 4820.52] Help -[4820.52 --> 4820.92] Them -[4820.92 --> 4821.46] In -[4821.46 --> 4821.60] Their -[4821.60 --> 4821.94] Life -[4821.94 --> 4823.56] They're -[4823.56 --> 4823.86] Bowing -[4823.86 --> 4824.08] To -[4824.08 --> 4824.54] Trees -[4824.54 --> 4824.74] They're -[4824.74 --> 4824.94] Putting -[4824.94 --> 4825.24] Hope -[4825.24 --> 4825.70] In -[4825.70 --> 4826.40] Tarot -[4826.40 --> 4826.72] Card -[4826.72 --> 4827.04] Readers -[4827.04 --> 4827.36] They're -[4827.36 --> 4827.90] Living -[4827.90 --> 4828.14] By -[4828.14 --> 4828.28] The -[4828.28 --> 4828.58] Mantra -[4828.58 --> 4828.74] I -[4828.74 --> 4828.90] Can -[4828.90 --> 4829.26] Believe -[4829.26 --> 4829.46] In -[4829.46 --> 4829.64] Any -[4829.64 --> 4829.86] Sort -[4829.86 --> 4829.96] Of -[4829.96 --> 4830.24] Spiritual -[4830.24 --> 4830.48] Thing -[4830.48 --> 4830.60] I -[4830.60 --> 4830.86] Want -[4830.86 --> 4830.98] As -[4830.98 --> 4831.14] Long -[4831.14 --> 4831.24] As -[4831.24 --> 4831.34] It -[4831.34 --> 4831.60] Harms -[4831.60 --> 4831.80] No -[4831.80 --> 4832.00] One -[4832.00 --> 4833.50] Generally -[4833.50 --> 4833.94] That -[4833.94 --> 4834.24] Starting -[4834.24 --> 4834.40] To -[4834.40 --> 4834.68] Sweep -[4834.68 --> 4834.84] Our -[4834.84 --> 4835.26] Culture -[4835.26 --> 4837.72] So -[4837.72 --> 4837.82] The -[4837.82 --> 4838.18] Difference -[4838.18 --> 4838.54] Between -[4838.54 --> 4839.06] Peter's -[4839.06 --> 4839.20] Day -[4839.20 --> 4839.32] And -[4839.32 --> 4839.54] Our -[4839.54 --> 4839.70] Day -[4839.70 --> 4839.88] Is -[4845.56 --> 4845.88] Writing -[4845.88 --> 4846.06] To -[4846.06 --> 4846.50] Christians -[4846.50 --> 4846.70] Who -[4846.70 --> 4846.80] Are -[4846.80 --> 4847.24] Called -[4847.24 --> 4847.42] To -[4847.42 --> 4848.32] Be -[4848.32 --> 4848.90] Exiles -[4848.90 --> 4849.16] And -[4849.16 --> 4850.02] Infiltrate -[4850.02 --> 4850.20] Or -[4850.20 --> 4850.38] Be -[4850.38 --> 4850.80] Present -[4850.80 --> 4851.14] In -[4851.14 --> 4851.36] This -[4851.36 --> 4851.70] Pagan -[4851.70 --> 4852.16] Land -[4852.16 --> 4855.56] Here -[4855.56 --> 4855.76] It's -[4855.76 --> 4855.88] A -[4855.88 --> 4856.00] Little -[4856.00 --> 4856.48] Different -[4856.48 --> 4858.70] We -[4858.70 --> 4859.34] Have -[4859.34 --> 4859.70] A -[4859.70 --> 4860.16] Christianity -[4860.16 --> 4860.42] That's -[4860.42 --> 4860.58] Not -[4860.58 --> 4860.86] The -[4860.86 --> 4860.98] New -[4860.98 --> 4861.12] Kid -[4861.12 --> 4861.24] On -[4861.24 --> 4861.34] The -[4861.34 --> 4861.48] Block -[4861.48 --> 4861.72] People -[4861.72 --> 4861.88] Know -[4861.88 --> 4862.00] What -[4862.00 --> 4862.42] Christianity -[4862.42 --> 4862.60] Is -[4862.60 --> 4862.72] But -[4862.72 --> 4863.32] Paganism -[4863.32 --> 4863.50] Is -[4863.50 --> 4863.68] Sort -[4863.68 --> 4863.78] Of -[4863.78 --> 4864.18] Sweeping -[4864.18 --> 4864.50] In -[4864.50 --> 4864.72] And -[4864.72 --> 4865.02] Taking -[4865.02 --> 4865.34] Over -[4865.34 --> 4865.80] And -[4865.80 --> 4865.90] So -[4865.90 --> 4866.04] We're -[4866.04 --> 4866.32] Living -[4866.32 --> 4866.52] As -[4866.52 --> 4867.04] Exiles -[4867.04 --> 4867.24] In -[4867.24 --> 4867.40] This -[4867.40 --> 4867.74] Land -[4867.74 --> 4868.34] Not -[4868.34 --> 4868.48] As -[4868.48 --> 4868.62] The -[4868.62 --> 4868.76] New -[4868.76 --> 4868.94] Kid -[4868.94 --> 4869.10] But -[4869.10 --> 4869.24] The -[4869.24 --> 4869.46] Old -[4869.46 --> 4869.78] Kid -[4869.78 --> 4870.28] And -[4870.28 --> 4870.82] Paganism -[4870.82 --> 4871.02] Is -[4871.02 --> 4871.24] Starting -[4871.24 --> 4871.42] To -[4871.42 --> 4871.68] Take -[4871.68 --> 4872.02] Over -[4872.02 --> 4873.04] So -[4873.04 --> 4873.58] Peter's -[4873.58 --> 4873.92] Calling -[4873.92 --> 4874.18] Throughout -[4874.18 --> 4874.40] This -[4874.40 --> 4874.66] Book -[4874.66 --> 4875.20] Applies -[4875.20 --> 4875.38] To -[4875.38 --> 4875.66] Us -[4875.66 --> 4876.14] In -[4876.14 --> 4876.34] Much -[4876.34 --> 4876.54] The -[4876.54 --> 4876.78] Same -[4876.78 --> 4877.14] Way -[4877.14 --> 4877.94] Even -[4877.94 --> 4878.12] If -[4878.12 --> 4878.26] Our -[4878.26 --> 4878.56] Pagan -[4878.56 --> 4879.10] Cultures -[4879.10 --> 4879.40] Are -[4879.40 --> 4879.60] Being -[4879.60 --> 4879.96] Shaped -[4879.96 --> 4880.28] Around -[4880.28 --> 4880.50] Us -[4880.50 --> 4880.68] A -[4880.68 --> 4880.82] Little -[4880.82 --> 4881.00] Bit -[4881.00 --> 4881.44] Differently -[4881.44 --> 4884.88] Let -[4884.88 --> 4884.96] Me -[4884.96 --> 4885.20] Sum -[4885.20 --> 4885.36] Up -[4885.36 --> 4885.54] This -[4885.54 --> 4886.06] Introductory -[4886.06 --> 4886.26] Look -[4886.26 --> 4886.38] At -[4886.38 --> 4886.56] First -[4886.56 --> 4886.80] Peter -[4886.80 --> 4886.92] In -[4886.92 --> 4887.06] This -[4887.06 --> 4887.26] Way -[4887.26 --> 4888.44] Our -[4888.44 --> 4888.90] Calling -[4888.90 --> 4889.08] In -[4889.08 --> 4889.22] These -[4889.22 --> 4889.50] First -[4889.50 --> 4889.88] Nine -[4889.88 --> 4890.54] Verses -[4890.54 --> 4890.88] Is -[4890.88 --> 4891.04] To -[4891.04 --> 4891.40] Remember -[4891.40 --> 4891.66] That -[4891.66 --> 4891.98] We -[4891.98 --> 4892.48] Are -[4892.48 --> 4892.88] Born -[4892.88 --> 4893.34] Again -[4893.34 --> 4893.98] Into -[4893.98 --> 4894.22] This -[4894.22 --> 4894.84] Living -[4894.84 --> 4895.48] Hope -[4895.48 --> 4896.30] And -[4896.30 --> 4896.42] To -[4896.42 --> 4896.60] Go -[4896.60 --> 4896.90] Into -[4896.90 --> 4897.30] The -[4897.30 --> 4897.62] Pagan -[4897.62 --> 4897.92] World -[4897.92 --> 4898.28] Around -[4898.28 --> 4898.70] Us -[4898.70 --> 4899.72] Knowing -[4899.72 --> 4900.34] That -[4900.34 --> 4900.96] Persecution -[4900.96 --> 4901.14] And -[4901.14 --> 4901.52] Suffering -[4901.52 --> 4901.74] May -[4901.74 --> 4902.08] Come -[4902.08 --> 4903.08] But -[4903.08 --> 4903.22] That -[4903.22 --> 4903.40] We -[4903.40 --> 4903.54] Are -[4903.54 --> 4903.76] Called -[4903.76 --> 4903.96] To -[4903.96 --> 4904.12] Live -[4904.12 --> 4904.42] Holy -[4904.42 --> 4904.78] Lives -[4904.78 --> 4904.92] And -[4904.92 --> 4905.04] Be -[4905.04 --> 4905.46] Examples -[4905.46 --> 4905.66] Of -[4905.66 --> 4905.94] Christ -[4905.94 --> 4906.22] There -[4906.22 --> 4907.88] We -[4907.88 --> 4908.04] Can -[4908.04 --> 4908.32] Live -[4908.32 --> 4908.64] Our -[4908.64 --> 4909.06] Lives -[4909.06 --> 4909.30] In -[4909.30 --> 4909.48] This -[4909.48 --> 4909.72] World -[4909.72 --> 4910.00] Knowing -[4910.00 --> 4910.18] That -[4910.18 --> 4910.50] Our -[4910.50 --> 4910.98] Eternal -[4910.98 --> 4911.28] Hope -[4911.28 --> 4911.46] Is -[4911.46 --> 4911.80] Jesus -[4911.80 --> 4912.88] Our -[4912.88 --> 4913.52] Inheritance -[4913.52 --> 4913.90] And -[4913.90 --> 4914.02] That -[4914.02 --> 4914.14] Our -[4914.14 --> 4914.64] Past -[4914.64 --> 4915.34] Doesn't -[4915.34 --> 4915.72] Define -[4915.72 --> 4915.94] Us -[4915.94 --> 4916.32] Our -[4916.32 --> 4916.82] Present -[4916.82 --> 4917.30] Doesn't -[4917.30 --> 4917.80] Confine -[4917.80 --> 4918.02] Us -[4918.02 --> 4918.40] And -[4918.40 --> 4918.54] Our -[4918.54 --> 4919.00] Futures -[4919.00 --> 4919.26] With -[4919.26 --> 4919.72] Christ -[4919.72 --> 4920.46] Are -[4920.46 --> 4920.66] A -[4920.66 --> 4920.94] Certain -[4920.94 --> 4922.04] That -[4922.04 --> 4922.34] Is -[4922.34 --> 4922.74] Our -[4922.74 --> 4923.48] Living -[4923.48 --> 4923.80] Hope -[4923.80 --> 4925.60] And -[4926.90 --> 4927.04] First -[4956.90 --> 4957.20] Tree -[4957.20 --> 4957.58] And -[4957.58 --> 4957.78] Just -[4957.78 --> 4958.14] Chalk -[4958.14 --> 4958.36] Full -[4958.36 --> 4958.52] Of -[4958.52 --> 4958.90] Idols -[4958.90 --> 4959.64] And -[4959.64 --> 4959.76] How -[4959.76 --> 4959.90] In -[4959.90 --> 4960.16] Spite -[4960.16 --> 4960.30] Of -[4960.30 --> 4960.48] All -[4960.48 --> 4960.64] Of -[4960.64 --> 4961.02] This -[4961.02 --> 4962.84] We -[4962.84 --> 4962.94] Are -[4962.94 --> 4963.10] To -[4963.10 --> 4963.32] Live -[4963.32 --> 4963.92] Holy -[4963.92 --> 4964.70] Lives -[4964.70 --> 4966.58] Not -[4966.58 --> 4967.08] Stand -[4967.08 --> 4967.32] Out -[4967.32 --> 4967.50] But -[4967.50 --> 4967.88] Stand -[4967.88 --> 4968.16] Up -[4968.16 --> 4969.24] The -[4969.24 --> 4969.88] Examples -[4969.88 --> 4970.66] To -[4970.66 --> 4970.84] This -[4970.84 --> 4971.22] World -[4971.22 --> 4972.18] Around -[4972.18 --> 4972.48] Us -[4972.48 --> 4973.80] Not -[4973.80 --> 4973.96] Just -[4973.96 --> 4974.20] In -[4974.20 --> 4974.46] Indeed -[4974.46 --> 4974.66] But -[4974.66 --> 4974.80] In -[4974.80 --> 4975.16] Word -[4975.16 --> 4975.76] So -[4975.76 --> 4975.88] That -[4975.88 --> 4976.28] We -[4976.28 --> 4977.58] So -[4977.58 --> 4977.74] That -[4977.74 --> 4978.00] When -[4978.00 --> 4978.24] We -[4978.24 --> 4978.46] Are -[4978.46 --> 4978.96] Slandered -[4978.96 --> 4979.22] For -[4979.22 --> 4979.36] What -[4979.36 --> 4979.48] We -[4979.48 --> 4979.82] Believe -[4979.82 --> 4980.06] Or -[4980.06 --> 4980.20] We -[4980.20 --> 4980.64] Judged -[4980.64 --> 4980.84] Or -[4980.84 --> 4981.02] We're -[4981.02 --> 4981.66] Persecuted -[4981.66 --> 4981.86] Or -[4981.86 --> 4982.04] We're -[4982.04 --> 4982.36] Cast -[4982.36 --> 4982.76] Aside -[4982.76 --> 4983.02] Or -[4983.02 --> 4983.28] We're -[4983.28 --> 4985.00] Deleted -[4985.00 --> 4985.24] From -[4985.24 --> 4985.40] That -[4985.40 --> 4985.78] Facebook -[4986.90 --> 4987.06] Who -[4987.06 --> 4987.48] Thinks -[4987.48 --> 4987.92] More -[4987.92 --> 4988.16] Like -[4988.16 --> 4988.38] They -[4988.38 --> 4988.62] Do -[4988.62 --> 4989.88] They -[4989.88 --> 4989.98] Will -[4989.98 --> 4990.16] Still -[4990.16 --> 4990.32] Be -[4990.32 --> 4990.48] Able -[4990.48 --> 4990.64] To -[4990.64 --> 4990.82] Look -[4990.82 --> 4990.98] At -[4990.98 --> 4991.26] Us -[4991.26 --> 4991.60] And -[4991.60 --> 4991.84] See -[4991.84 --> 4992.02] How -[4992.02 --> 4992.20] We -[4992.20 --> 4992.54] Live -[4992.54 --> 4993.02] And -[4993.02 --> 4993.74] Recognize -[4993.74 --> 4993.98] That -[4993.98 --> 4994.40] God -[4994.40 --> 4995.10] Is -[4995.10 --> 4996.08] Glorious -[4996.08 --> 4997.92] Live -[4997.92 --> 4998.34] Christ -[4998.34 --> 4998.66] Like -[4998.66 --> 4999.20] Lives -[4999.20 --> 4999.78] In -[4999.78 --> 4999.92] A -[4999.92 --> 5000.24] Pagan -[5000.24 --> 5000.72] Culture -[5000.72 --> 5001.18] That's -[5001.18 --> 5001.42] What's -[5001.42 --> 5001.74] Coming -[5001.74 --> 5002.52] Throughout -[5002.52 --> 5002.76] This -[5002.76 --> 5003.06] Series -[5003.06 --> 5004.24] But -[5004.24 --> 5004.58] All -[5004.58 --> 5004.74] Of -[5004.74 --> 5004.94] That -[5004.94 --> 5005.12] Will -[5005.12 --> 5005.28] Be -[5005.28 --> 5005.76] Undergirded -[5005.76 --> 5005.88] By -[5005.88 --> 5006.08] This -[5006.08 --> 5006.40] Truth -[5006.40 --> 5007.52] That -[5007.52 --> 5007.62] We -[5007.62 --> 5007.76] Have -[5007.76 --> 5007.92] A -[5007.92 --> 5008.20] Mission -[5008.20 --> 5008.56] In -[5008.56 --> 5008.74] This -[5008.74 --> 5009.00] World -[5009.00 --> 5009.18] To -[5009.18 --> 5009.32] Live -[5009.32 --> 5009.62] Holy -[5009.62 --> 5010.00] Lives -[5010.00 --> 5010.20] For -[5010.20 --> 5010.58] Christ -[5010.58 --> 5011.98] And -[5011.98 --> 5012.10] That -[5012.10 --> 5012.22] We -[5012.22 --> 5012.34] Are -[5012.34 --> 5012.50] To -[5012.50 --> 5012.76] Live -[5012.76 --> 5013.00] Our -[5013.00 --> 5013.36] Lives -[5013.36 --> 5013.78] Knowing -[5013.78 --> 5014.24] That -[5014.24 --> 5014.56] Our -[5014.56 --> 5015.06] Future -[5015.06 --> 5015.60] Is -[5015.60 --> 5016.36] Secured -[5016.36 --> 5016.94] In -[5016.94 --> 5017.10] The -[5017.10 --> 5017.38] Living -[5017.38 --> 5017.76] Hope -[5017.76 --> 5018.26] That -[5018.26 --> 5018.64] Is -[5018.64 --> 5019.36] Jesus -[5019.36 --> 5019.82] Christ -[5019.82 --> 5021.32] Amen -[5021.32 --> 5026.88] Our -[5026.88 --> 5027.18] Father -[5027.18 --> 5027.46] In -[5027.46 --> 5027.72] Heaven -[5027.72 --> 5028.16] We -[5028.16 --> 5030.68] Don't -[5030.68 --> 5030.92] Even -[5030.92 --> 5031.24] Know -[5031.24 --> 5031.50] How -[5031.50 --> 5031.68] We -[5031.68 --> 5031.82] Can -[5031.82 --> 5032.28] Possibly -[5032.28 --> 5032.62] Thank -[5032.62 --> 5032.76] You -[5032.76 --> 5033.06] Enough -[5033.06 --> 5033.48] For -[5033.48 --> 5033.64] Your -[5033.64 --> 5033.90] Son -[5033.90 --> 5034.18] Jesus -[5034.18 --> 5034.64] Christ -[5034.64 --> 5035.90] For -[5035.90 --> 5036.08] His -[5036.08 --> 5036.44] Life -[5036.44 --> 5036.62] For -[5036.62 --> 5036.80] His -[5036.80 --> 5037.12] Death -[5037.12 --> 5037.32] For -[5037.32 --> 5037.50] His -[5037.50 --> 5038.20] Resurrection -[5038.20 --> 5038.54] For -[5038.54 --> 5038.72] The -[5038.72 --> 5039.18] Grace -[5039.18 --> 5039.94] That -[5039.94 --> 5040.04] He -[5040.04 --> 5040.22] Has -[5040.22 --> 5040.46] Given -[5040.46 --> 5040.74] To -[5040.74 --> 5041.14] Us -[5041.14 --> 5041.74] That -[5041.74 --> 5041.84] We -[5041.84 --> 5041.96] Are -[5041.96 --> 5042.28] Free -[5042.28 --> 5042.56] From -[5042.56 --> 5042.88] Sin -[5042.88 --> 5043.06] And -[5043.06 --> 5043.32] Free -[5043.32 --> 5043.66] From -[5043.66 --> 5044.04] Death -[5044.04 --> 5044.68] And -[5044.68 --> 5044.80] That -[5044.80 --> 5045.00] We -[5045.00 --> 5045.16] Can -[5045.16 --> 5045.34] Look -[5045.34 --> 5045.60] Ahead -[5045.60 --> 5045.76] To -[5045.76 --> 5045.92] The -[5045.92 --> 5046.20] Living -[5046.20 --> 5046.58] Hope -[5046.58 --> 5047.46] Our -[5047.46 --> 5047.86] Eternal -[5047.86 --> 5048.28] future -[5048.28 --> 5048.58] With -[5048.58 --> 5048.90] You -[5048.90 --> 5050.22] Our -[5050.22 --> 5050.84] Inheritance -[5050.84 --> 5054.42] Lord -[5054.42 --> 5054.74] Sometimes -[5054.74 --> 5055.02] It's -[5055.02 --> 5055.22] Hard -[5055.22 --> 5055.46] It's -[5055.46 --> 5055.66] Hard -[5055.66 --> 5055.84] To -[5055.84 --> 5056.02] Look -[5056.02 --> 5056.24] Ahead -[5056.24 --> 5056.48] That -[5056.48 --> 5056.80] Far -[5056.80 --> 5057.62] Lord -[5057.62 --> 5059.08] We -[5059.08 --> 5059.34] Fear -[5059.34 --> 5059.52] Our -[5059.52 --> 5060.02] Futures -[5060.02 --> 5061.06] Our -[5061.06 --> 5061.42] Past -[5061.42 --> 5061.84] Haunt -[5061.84 --> 5062.10] Us -[5062.10 --> 5063.18] Our -[5063.18 --> 5063.68] Presence -[5063.68 --> 5063.90] Are -[5063.90 --> 5064.10] Really -[5064.10 --> 5064.58] Muddied -[5064.58 --> 5065.80] But -[5065.80 --> 5065.94] God -[5065.94 --> 5066.08] We -[5066.08 --> 5066.28] Just -[5066.28 --> 5066.68] Ask -[5066.68 --> 5066.90] That -[5066.90 --> 5067.08] The -[5067.08 --> 5067.60] Reality -[5067.60 --> 5067.94] Of -[5067.94 --> 5068.24] You -[5068.24 --> 5070.00] Penetrate -[5070.00 --> 5070.24] Our -[5070.24 --> 5070.62] Hearts -[5070.62 --> 5071.84] That -[5071.84 --> 5072.04] We -[5072.04 --> 5072.26] Can -[5072.26 --> 5072.66] Live -[5072.66 --> 5073.16] In -[5073.16 --> 5073.50] Whatever -[5073.50 --> 5073.94] Mire -[5073.94 --> 5074.14] We -[5074.14 --> 5074.46] Find -[5074.46 --> 5074.58] Our -[5074.58 --> 5075.20] In -[5075.20 --> 5076.26] Shining -[5076.26 --> 5076.58] Your -[5076.58 --> 5076.94] Light -[5076.94 --> 5077.16] To -[5077.16 --> 5077.22] The -[5077.22 --> 5077.42] World -[5077.42 --> 5077.70] Around -[5077.70 --> 5078.00] Us -[5078.00 --> 5079.84] May -[5079.84 --> 5080.02] We -[5080.02 --> 5080.34] Give -[5080.34 --> 5080.58] You -[5080.58 --> 5080.78] The -[5080.78 --> 5081.20] Glory -[5081.20 --> 5081.76] In -[5081.76 --> 5082.02] All -[5082.02 --> 5082.34] Things -[5082.34 --> 5083.58] And -[5083.58 --> 5083.72] May -[5083.72 --> 5083.88] You -[5083.88 --> 5084.10] Be -[5084.10 --> 5084.36] With -[5084.36 --> 5084.66] Us -[5084.66 --> 5085.36] As -[5085.36 --> 5085.48] We -[5085.48 --> 5085.62] Go -[5085.62 --> 5085.82] Out -[5085.82 --> 5086.08] Into -[5086.08 --> 5086.34] This -[5086.34 --> 5086.66] Pagan -[5086.66 --> 5086.92] World -[5086.92 --> 5087.10] That -[5087.10 --> 5087.20] We -[5087.20 --> 5087.46] Find -[5087.46 --> 5087.62] Our -[5087.62 --> 5088.08] In -[5088.08 --> 5091.30] And -[5091.30 --> 5091.40] May -[5091.40 --> 5091.52] We -[5091.52 --> 5091.70] Draw -[5091.70 --> 5092.00] People -[5092.00 --> 5092.18] To -[5092.18 --> 5092.38] You -[5092.38 --> 5093.40] Pray -[5093.40 --> 5093.54] This -[5093.54 --> 5093.64] In -[5093.64 --> 5093.76] Your -[5093.76 --> 5093.96] Name -[5093.96 --> 5096.50] What -[5096.50 --> 5110.82] microbi -[5114.88 --> 5115.76] Chasm -[5115.76 --> 5119.76] That lay between us -[5119.76 --> 5122.24] How high the mountain -[5122.24 --> 5126.30] I could not climb -[5126.30 --> 5128.86] In desperation -[5128.86 --> 5132.26] I turned to heaven -[5132.26 --> 5135.66] And spoke your name -[5135.66 --> 5139.34] Into the night -[5139.34 --> 5142.34] And through the darkness -[5142.34 --> 5146.40] Your loving kindness -[5146.40 --> 5149.42] Tore through the shadows -[5149.42 --> 5152.82] Of my soul -[5152.82 --> 5156.60] The work is finished -[5156.60 --> 5159.54] The end is written -[5159.54 --> 5162.98] Jesus Christ -[5162.98 --> 5167.18] My living hope -[5167.18 --> 5173.38] Who could imagine -[5173.38 --> 5177.06] So great a mercy -[5177.06 --> 5180.90] What heart could fathom -[5180.90 --> 5184.24] Such boundless grace -[5184.24 --> 5187.14] The God of ages -[5187.14 --> 5190.66] Slept down from glory -[5190.66 --> 5193.66] To wear my sin -[5193.66 --> 5197.62] And give my shame -[5197.62 --> 5200.48] The cross has spoken -[5200.48 --> 5203.86] I am forgiven -[5203.86 --> 5207.08] The King of kings -[5207.08 --> 5211.02] Calls me his own -[5211.02 --> 5213.96] Beautiful Savior -[5213.96 --> 5217.30] I'm yours forever -[5217.30 --> 5220.04] Jesus Christ -[5220.04 --> 5224.04] My living Lord -[5224.04 --> 5226.56] Hallelujah -[5226.56 --> 5230.32] Praise the one -[5230.32 --> 5232.04] Who set me free -[5232.04 --> 5233.36] Hallelujah -[5233.36 --> 5238.82] Death has lost its grip on me -[5238.82 --> 5242.28] You have broken every chain -[5242.28 --> 5245.66] There's salvation in your name -[5245.66 --> 5247.68] Jesus Christ -[5247.68 --> 5252.48] My living hope -[5252.48 --> 5253.88] Hallelujah -[5253.88 --> 5257.54] Praise the one -[5257.54 --> 5259.26] Who set me free -[5259.26 --> 5260.60] Hallelujah -[5260.60 --> 5265.92] Death has lost its grip on me -[5265.92 --> 5269.40] You have broken every chain -[5269.40 --> 5272.78] There's salvation in your name -[5272.78 --> 5274.80] Jesus Christ -[5274.80 --> 5279.60] My living hope -[5279.60 --> 5285.36] Then came the morning -[5285.36 --> 5288.92] That sealed the promise -[5288.92 --> 5292.60] Your buried body -[5292.60 --> 5296.40] Began to breathe -[5296.40 --> 5299.40] Out of the silence -[5299.40 --> 5300.00] Out of the silence -[5300.00 --> 5303.00] The roaring lion -[5303.00 --> 5306.12] Declared the grave -[5306.12 --> 5309.80] Has no claim on me -[5309.80 --> 5313.40] When came the morning -[5313.40 --> 5317.00] That sealed the promise -[5317.00 --> 5320.54] Your buried body -[5320.54 --> 5324.40] Began to breathe -[5324.40 --> 5327.40] Out of the silence -[5327.40 --> 5328.00] Out of the silence -[5328.00 --> 5331.00] The roaring lion -[5331.00 --> 5334.12] Declared the grave -[5334.12 --> 5338.00] Has no claim on me -[5338.00 --> 5344.00] Jesus yours is for victory -[5344.00 --> 5347.00] Hallelujah -[5347.00 --> 5352.58] Praise the one who sent me free -[5352.58 --> 5356.18] Hallelujah -[5356.18 --> 5357.18] Hallelujah -[5357.18 --> 5359.18] Death has lost its grip on me -[5359.18 --> 5362.18] You have broken every chain -[5362.18 --> 5365.98] There's salvation in your name -[5365.98 --> 5368.02] Jesus Christ -[5368.02 --> 5372.18] My living hope -[5372.18 --> 5374.18] Hallelujah -[5374.18 --> 5379.58] Praise the one who sets me free -[5379.58 --> 5381.18] Hallelujah -[5381.18 --> 5383.18] Hallelujah -[5383.18 --> 5386.18] Death has lost its grip on me -[5386.18 --> 5389.18] You have broken every chain -[5389.18 --> 5393.18] There's salvation in your name -[5393.18 --> 5395.18] Jesus Christ -[5395.18 --> 5399.18] My living hope -[5399.18 --> 5401.18] Jesus Christ -[5401.18 --> 5405.18] My living hope -[5405.18 --> 5408.18] Oh God -[5408.18 --> 5413.78] You are my living hope -[5413.78 --> 5420.78] Oh God -[5420.78 --> 5422.98] So as we go out into our weeks -[5422.98 --> 5427.18] As we remember that Jesus is our living hope -[5427.18 --> 5430.04] May that truth penetrate our hearts -[5430.04 --> 5430.74] May we go out -[5430.74 --> 5431.42] Just a reminder -[5431.42 --> 5432.88] If you did want a copy of this -[5432.88 --> 5434.14] You are welcome to it -[5434.14 --> 5435.14] For your own study -[5435.14 --> 5436.10] For your care groups -[5436.10 --> 5437.32] For any Bible study -[5437.32 --> 5438.58] You find yourselves a part of -[5438.58 --> 5440.62] Just email Marilyn at the office -[5440.62 --> 5442.38] And she will make sure to make one for you -[5442.38 --> 5443.86] Or you can come chat with Pastor Chris -[5443.86 --> 5444.82] And myself -[5444.82 --> 5448.66] Now please receive the blessing of our Lord -[5448.66 --> 5452.04] The Lord bless you and keep you -[5452.04 --> 5454.90] The Lord make his face shine upon you -[5454.90 --> 5455.76] And be gracious -[5455.76 --> 5459.04] The Lord turn his face toward you -[5459.04 --> 5461.44] And give you his peace -[5461.44 --> 5463.46] And all God's people said -[5463.46 --> 5464.58] Amen -[5464.58 --> 5466.58] Amen -[5494.58 --> 5503.80] The Lord bless you and keep you -[5503.80 --> 5508.60] Make his face shine upon you -[5508.60 --> 5511.88] And be gracious to you -[5511.88 --> 5519.36] The Lord turn his face toward you -[5519.36 --> 5520.36] And give you peace -[5520.36 --> 5521.36] And give you peace -[5521.36 --> 5523.36] And give you peace -[5523.36 --> 5526.36] And give you peace -[5526.36 --> 5534.36] The Lord bless you and keep you -[5534.36 --> 5536.36] And keep you -[5536.36 --> 5537.36] And keep you -[5537.36 --> 5542.36] Make his face shine upon you -[5542.36 --> 5544.36] And be gracious to you -[5544.36 --> 5545.36] And be gracious to you -[5545.36 --> 5551.36] The Lord turn his face toward you -[5551.36 --> 5554.36] And give you peace -[5554.36 --> 5555.36] And give you peace -[5555.36 --> 5557.36] Amen -[5557.36 --> 5561.36] Amen -[5561.36 --> 5565.36] Amen -[5565.36 --> 5569.36] Amen -[5569.36 --> 5570.36] Amen -[5570.36 --> 5571.36] Amen -[5571.36 --> 5572.36] Amen -[5572.36 --> 5575.36] Amen -[5575.36 --> 5577.36] Amen -[5577.36 --> 5579.36] Amen -[5579.36 --> 5582.36] Amen -[5582.36 --> 5583.36] Amen -[5583.36 --> 5586.36] Amen -[5586.36 --> 5587.36] Amen -[5587.36 --> 5589.36] Amen -[5589.36 --> 5590.36] Amen -[5590.36 --> 5593.36] Amen -[5593.36 --> 5597.36] The Lord bless you -[5597.36 --> 5599.36] And keep you -[5599.36 --> 5605.36] Amen -[5605.36 --> 5606.36] Let pray -[5606.36 --> 5612.36] Amen -[5612.36 --> 5616.36] Amen -[5616.36 --> 5617.36] Amen -[5617.36 --> 5621.36] Amen -[5621.36 --> 5622.36] Themen -[5622.36 --> 5624.36] Hey -[5624.36 --> 5625.36] Yea -[5625.36 --> 5626.36] Amen -[5626.36 --> 5627.36] Amen -[5627.36 --> 5628.36] None -[5628.36 --> 5636.80] Amen, Amen, Amen. -[5636.80 --> 5651.02] Amen, Amen, Amen. -[5651.02 --> 5681.00] Amen, Amen. -[5681.02 --> 5711.00] Amen, Amen. -[5711.02 --> 5737.02] Amen, Amen, Amen. -[5737.02 --> 5739.02] Amen, Amen, Amen. -[5739.02 --> 5743.02] Amen, Amen. -[5743.02 --> 5749.02] Amen, Amen. -[5749.02 --> 5751.02] Amen, Amen. -[5751.02 --> 5755.02] Amen, Amen. -[5755.02 --> 5761.02] Amen, Amen. -[5761.02 --> 5767.02] Amen, Amen. -[5767.02 --> 5773.02] Amen, Amen. -[5773.02 --> 5777.02] Amen, Amen. -[5777.02 --> 5781.02] Amen, Amen. -[5781.02 --> 5803.02] Amen, Amen, Amen. -[5803.02 --> 5805.02] Amen, Amen. -[5805.02 --> 5819.02] Amen, Amen, Amen. -[5819.02 --> 5821.02] Amen, Amen. -[5821.02 --> 5823.02] Amen, Amen. -[5823.02 --> 5853.00] Thank you. -[5853.02 --> 5883.00] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 30, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 30, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index fbca7b17b6384e283f944062a508ad8d7c595f62..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 30, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,127 +0,0 @@ -• Song "God So Loved" from We the Kingdom -• Invitation to pray at the cross and bring redemption -• Worship songs about God's love and mercy -• Prayer for salvation through faith in Jesus Christ -• The power of hell defeated by God's love -• Praise and thanksgiving for blessings received -• Scripture reading (John 3:16) -• Confession of faith in Jesus Christ -• Testimony of women from the congregation about their experiences with God's presence in times of struggle and sorrow -• Invitation to Jesus and the Holy Spirit -• Prayer for refreshment, strength, and rest -• Confession of need for God's help and shelter -• Singing songs about dependence on God -• Acknowledging need for God every hour -• Seeking guidance and hope in times of temptation -• The speaker is Gary Roersma, who has previously served as a chaplain for seafarers. -• He shares personal anecdotes about his wife's conversion to Christianity 45 years ago. -• He discusses the challenges faced by people in giving up their independence and surrendering to God. -• He mentions his recent experience on a ship, where he spoke with crew members who expressed a sense of puniness and dependence. -• He quotes Psalm 93 to highlight the power and majesty of God. -• He talks about the ongoing efforts of seafarers centers in serving and vaccinating seafarers, including over 3,000 in British Columbia. -• Document requirements from Transport Canada regarding shore leave for seafarers -• Efforts to loosen up restrictions on ships and allow seafarers to come ashore -• Stories of seafarers experiencing shore leave and interacting with center staff -• Ministry activities, including Bible distribution and prayer sessions -• Internship program and hiring process for new staff member -• Request for prayers and support for the ministry -• Burden and rest -• Yoke is easy, burden is light -• Love and care for someone -• Trust and its concept -• Examples of trust (e.g. relying on a chair, trusting car brakes) -• Theme of creation vs new theme of trust in children's worship time -• Trust: discussing what it means to trust, including trusting others (such as parents) and trusting objects or systems (like toothpaste) -• Pool analogy: using going to the pool as an example of trusting that others will be there to help -• Toothpaste example: illustrating how we can trust things without fully understanding how they work -• Children's Worship Time: mentioning games and discussion on trust -• Congregational prayer: praying for various concerns, including health issues, mental illness, healing, loss of loved ones, and strength for those grieving -• Prayers for the ministry team's trip to Mexico and their connections with local groups -• Prayer for the women's conference and its impact on attendees -• Prayer for Bill Tuninghead's preaching and his role in sharing God's word -• Request that the congregation be welcoming to newcomers and strangers, and that they may be a blessing to those in need -• Acknowledgement of personal sinfulness and brokenness, and request for spiritual strengthening -• Discussion about the reading of Matthew 11:25-30 and its significance -• Introduction to Reformation Day and its connection to the Protestant movement -• Martin Luther's posting of the 95 statements in Wittenberg was a protest against Roman Catholic practices, particularly indulgences. -• Indulgences were seen as false teaching, leading to physical, economic, and spiritual abuse. -• The Catholic Church has acknowledged the need for reform within itself. -• Similar issues existed in Jesus' time, with the religious establishment needing serious correction. -• The first century's situation is compared to the 16th century, highlighting the ongoing need for reformation in churches. -• John the Baptist sent disciples to ask Jesus if he was truly the Messiah or someone else should be expected. -• Jesus responded by sending his followers back to John with a message of miracles and preaching the good news to the poor. -• Jesus compares himself to John the Baptist and explains why he is more accepted than John -• Jesus uses an analogy to describe how people of this generation are stubborn and resistant to change -• Jesus denounces cities where miracles were performed but the inhabitants did not repent -• Jesus issues warnings about judgment day, stating that it will be easier for Sodom on judgment day than for those who did not repent -• Jesus praises God for revealing truth to little children rather than the wise and learned -• Jesus is not rejoicing in people's unbelief, but rather calling for faith -• Intellectual power is not useless or condemned by Jesus, but rather pride and self-sufficiency are -• Humility and childlike trust are what Jesus values over intellectual pride -• Sharp minds can come to Christ if they have humility and a willingness to learn -• Jesus' teachings are profound and theological, going beyond Sunday school material -• The son knows the father except for those to whom he chooses to reveal him -• Importance of letting a message sink in and its connection to mystery and wonder -• Difference between adult and child's perspective on Jesus' teachings -• Comparison between adult's analytical approach and child's amazement at the unknown -• Personal anecdote about visiting the Milky Way with family, illustrating child's curiosity vs. adult's need for explanation -• Discussion of bookish theologians trying to discover historical Jesus vs. children wanting to hear his story -• Introduction of granddaughter Hadley and her interest in Santa Claus, which led to a conversation about false teaching -• A child is asked about Santa Claus and describes his alleged behavior -• The child's mother corrects the child after several months, revealing it was actually her sister who gave gifts to her cousin -• Discussion of children believing what they are told by adults, including fantastical or false information about their creator -• Jesus' unique relationship with the Father -• The theologians of his day trying to understand and figure him out -• His message about no one knowing the Father like he does, and vice versa -• The importance of receiving God's love and mercy as a gift through Christ -• Entering into the relationship that Jesus has with the Father -• The redemptive relationship with Christ is accessible to all, regardless of education or background. -• Understanding God's plan for the world and personal life requires listening to Jesus' voice and being ready to obey it. -• Jesus is the center of all thought, wisdom, and knowledge. -• God communicates through his son, Jesus, who offers rest and relief from burdens. -• The passage from Matthew 11:28-30 is often quoted due to its beauty and promise of rest. -• Jesus offers peace and rest to those exhausted by life's demands -• The world is burdened by COVID, politics, and conflicting ideologies -• People are worn out from trying to succeed in a competitive world -• Confusion and pressure exist in various areas of life (business, politics, education, church) -• The pastor admits to being guilty of creating unnecessary pressure and obligation -• Discussion on the meaning of being a follower of Christ and living in Christian community -• Criticism of modern culture's portrayal of evangelical Christians as legalistic and joyless -• Comparison between people without religion and those with a church-going lifestyle, noting that both may experience similar levels of peace -• The importance of Jesus' gentle yet firm nature as an example for followers -• Jesus' identification with humans through his humility and willingness to take on their burdens -• The depth and scope of God's love demonstrated through Jesus' actions -• The Call by Oskin -• Primary focus is not on doing something or going somewhere, but on being with someone (God) -• Jesus is the call to be in relationship with God -• Believing in Jesus brings rest and purpose -• Accepting the call does not mean becoming lazy or doing nothing -• Jesus gives us meaningful work to do when we come to him -• Injustice and hurt can be a call from God to take action -• Bringing matters to God and inviting Christ into our space is crucial for justice and healing -• The one who comforts us also leads us out of comfort zones to help others in need -• Accepting tasks from Jesus will not wear us out, but may require practice to discern His voice -• Responding to the Spirit of Jesus or giving in to personal desires requires self-reflection -• Relationship with the Lord -• Benefits to others and building up the kingdom -• Alignment with Scriptures -• Personal identity and trust in God's plan -• Seeking guidance from trusted friends -• Invitation of Christ and offer of rest and freedom -• Humility and childlike willingness to follow God's will -• Restlessness and finding rest in God -• Liberation from self to serve others through God's power, love, joy, and peace -• Hope and comfort found in Jesus Christ alone -• Union with God through faith in Christ -• Satisfaction of God's wrath against sin through the death of Christ -• The power of Christ's love and presence in one's life -• Resistance to Satan's schemes and hell's power -• Identity as a child of God and a follower of Christ -• Simple living and trust in God's plan -• Jesus' sacrifice and resurrection -• His role as the Lion of Judah, Lamb who was slain, and King of kings -• Reiteration of the title "King of all kings" -• References to biblical figures (David, the King) and institutions (University College London) -• Mention of specific individuals (Blessed of all kings, Angelica) -• Statements about reign or rule -• Expressions of gratitude (repeated instances of "Thank you") \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 30, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 30, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 1e2db9daacceceb803735b8b1dc937c573dfcd6c..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 30, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2372 +0,0 @@ -[0.48 --> 1.00] Amen. -[2.92 --> 6.26] So the first song is God So Loved from We the Kingdom, -[6.48 --> 8.14] if you want to check it out on your phone. -[12.44 --> 14.20] Never mind, we're on. -[14.20 --> 14.82] Woo-hoo! -[14.82 --> 30.42] Come all you weary, come all you thirsty, -[30.42 --> 34.74] come to the well, we're there on Christ. -[35.14 --> 39.56] Sing not the water, come all you thirst alone. -[39.56 --> 47.98] Come all you sinners, come find His mercy, -[48.38 --> 52.12] come to the table He will satisfy. -[52.84 --> 58.24] Praise God His goodness, find what you're looking for. -[61.30 --> 66.02] For God so loved the world that He gave us, -[66.02 --> 70.46] His one and only Son to save us. -[70.46 --> 76.68] Whoever believes in Him will live for the world. -[79.02 --> 83.58] Come on and pray, God, bring your redemption. -[84.10 --> 87.96] Come, pray the ground at the front of the cross. -[88.50 --> 93.88] Jesus is waiting there with love and heart. -[93.88 --> 95.88] Be the kingdom of God. -[95.88 --> 96.20] Amen. -[96.20 --> 97.28] Amen. -[97.28 --> 101.76] For God so loved the world that He gave us, -[101.84 --> 106.18] His one and only Son to save us. -[106.18 --> 111.88] Whoever believes in Him will live for the world. -[112.38 --> 113.02] Amen. -[113.02 --> 113.48] Amen. -[114.56 --> 119.14] The power of hell forever defeated. -[119.14 --> 137.40] When the heaven is full. -[137.40 --> 145.38] Amen. -[145.38 --> 149.96] For the wondrous heart is alone -[149.96 --> 154.42] Praise God, praise God -[154.42 --> 158.64] From all our blessings alone -[158.64 --> 162.38] Praise Him, praise Him -[163.00 --> 168.38] For the wondrous heart is alone -[168.38 --> 172.22] From God's soul, love -[172.22 --> 176.72] The world that He gave us is one and only -[176.72 --> 181.00] Son to save for God so long -[181.00 --> 185.62] The world that He gave us is one and only -[185.62 --> 187.82] Son to save us -[187.82 --> 192.98] Whoever believes in Him will live forever -[192.98 --> 200.60] The power of hell forever with me -[200.60 --> 202.84] Now it is well -[202.84 --> 205.10] I'm walking in freedom -[205.10 --> 207.18] For God's soul, love -[207.18 --> 210.82] God's soul of the world -[210.82 --> 216.54] Bring all your failures -[216.54 --> 218.60] Bring your addictions -[218.60 --> 220.64] Come lay them down -[220.64 --> 222.88] And the blood of the cross -[222.88 --> 225.14] Jesus is waiting -[225.14 --> 229.14] God's soul of the world -[229.14 --> 235.12] God's soul of the road -[235.12 --> 241.58] Like the Mullet of the world -[241.58 --> 246.70] From God's soul, love -[246.70 --> 247.64] For woíz we live forever -[247.64 --> 251.36] This land of the world -[251.36 --> 277.86] Our Father, everlasting, we are created right, God Almighty. -[281.36 --> 291.30] Through your Holy Spirit, conceived in Christ the Son, Jesus our Savior. -[293.42 --> 307.02] I believe in God our Father, I believe in Christ the Son, I believe in the Holy Spirit, our God is free in one. -[307.02 --> 319.14] I believe in the resurrection, and He will rise again, for I believe in the name of Jesus. -[319.14 --> 331.14] I believe in the Holy Spirit, His Son, I believe in the Holy Spirit, His Son, I believe in the Holy Spirit, His Son, He will rise again, for His Son. -[331.14 --> 353.14] I judge the Lord, His Son, He will rise again, for His Son, He will rise again, for His Son, He will rise again, for His Son. -[353.14 --> 357.14] I believe in the name of Jesus. -[357.14 --> 383.12] I believe in the Holy Spirit, His Son, He will rise again, for I believe in the name of Jesus. -[383.12 --> 405.12] I believe in the Holy Spirit, His Son, He will rise again, for His Son, He will rise again, for His Son, He will rise again, for His Son. -[405.12 --> 407.12] I believe in the name of Jesus. -[407.12 --> 435.10] I believe in the Holy Spirit, His Son, He will rise again, for His Son, He will rise again, for His Son, He will rise again, for His Son, He will rise again, for His Son. -[435.10 --> 437.10] I believe in the Holy Spirit, His Son, He will rise again again, for His Son. -[437.10 --> 439.10] I believe in the Holy Spirit, His Son, He will rise again again, for His Son, He will rise again again. -[439.10 --> 445.10] I believe in the saints' communion, and in the holy truth. -[445.90 --> 451.34] I believe in the resurrection, and Jesus comes again. -[451.62 --> 456.78] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[457.78 --> 460.18] I believe in God, O Father. -[460.70 --> 463.06] I believe in Christ, O Son. -[463.06 --> 466.06] I believe in the holy spirit. -[466.06 --> 474.90] I believe in the resurrection, and we'll rise again. -[475.44 --> 480.36] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[481.08 --> 486.88] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[496.06 --> 507.10] On Friday evening, and for most of yesterday, the women of this congregation had an opportunity to meet together. -[507.10 --> 514.98] And to listen to and to share in the life stories of some of the women in this church. -[514.98 --> 526.52] And they shared how the Lord wasn't just present in times of struggle and dismay and grief and sorrow, but that he carried them. -[527.42 --> 535.24] He walked alongside them, and he put specific people right into their lives at just the right time. -[535.24 --> 541.38] We talked about giving space to honor times of lament. -[543.38 --> 548.98] And instead of feeling shame, to realize that there is real richness in our weaknesses. -[550.12 --> 558.84] And so as we sing the next song, we can sing with confidence that our pain and sorrow is washed away in the waves of God's mercies. -[558.84 --> 588.82] And so as we sing the next song, we sing the next song. -[588.82 --> 618.80] We sing the next song. -[618.82 --> 624.42] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[627.30 --> 633.76] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[635.60 --> 646.36] All who are thirsty, all who are weak, come to the fountain. -[646.36 --> 660.30] Give your heart in the streams of life, let the pain and the sorrow be washed away. -[661.30 --> 675.30] In the waves of the sea, as he cries out to thee, we say, Holy Spirit. -[676.36 --> 688.50] Holy Spirit, come. -[688.50 --> 696.42] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[696.42 --> 705.56] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[705.56 --> 707.56] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[707.56 --> 709.70] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[709.70 --> 710.44] Pray with me. -[713.74 --> 716.12] Father, we come to you thirsty. -[717.28 --> 718.90] Refresh us by your spirit. -[719.70 --> 720.64] We come weak. -[721.92 --> 723.24] Strengthen us with your spirit. -[724.28 --> 725.50] We come weary. -[726.64 --> 728.24] Help us to find rest in you. -[728.24 --> 732.82] Father, we confess we need you. -[733.82 --> 735.54] You who first loved us. -[736.88 --> 741.94] Be our shelter, O Most High, for you are our refuge and our fortress. -[743.40 --> 746.74] Help us put our trust in you and rest. -[747.50 --> 749.00] Rest in you, Abba Father. -[750.44 --> 750.72] Amen. -[750.72 --> 753.84] We rise as we sing these last two songs. -[753.84 --> 783.82] Lord, I am -[783.84 --> 787.56] I am cast -[787.56 --> 790.02] Now in here -[790.02 --> 793.78] I find my rest -[793.78 --> 796.32] Without you -[796.32 --> 800.06] I fall apart -[800.06 --> 803.04] You're the one -[803.04 --> 807.18] Who guides my heart -[807.18 --> 813.82] Lord, I need you -[813.82 --> 818.30] Oh, I need you -[818.30 --> 821.04] Every hour -[821.04 --> 823.82] I need you -[824.54 --> 826.04] My one -[826.04 --> 827.96] It ends -[827.96 --> 829.82] My righteousness -[830.50 --> 835.82] Oh God, how I need you -[835.82 --> 846.92] Your grace is born -[846.92 --> 850.04] Your grace is done -[850.04 --> 853.42] It's where you are -[853.42 --> 855.90] And where you are -[855.90 --> 859.96] Lord, I am free -[859.96 --> 861.42] Holiness -[861.42 --> 865.42] Is Christ in me -[865.42 --> 868.42] And where you are -[868.42 --> 871.42] Lord, I am free -[871.42 --> 874.42] Holiness -[874.42 --> 878.90] Is Christ in me -[878.90 --> 884.42] Lord, I need you -[884.42 --> 885.52] Lord, I need you -[885.52 --> 889.42] Oh, I need you -[889.42 --> 892.80] Every hour -[892.80 --> 895.42] I need you -[895.42 --> 897.42] My one -[897.42 --> 898.36] I want you -[898.36 --> 901.64] My righteousness -[901.64 --> 907.42] Oh God, how I need you -[907.42 --> 913.64] Teach my song to rise for you -[913.64 --> 916.52] When temptation -[916.52 --> 916.54] When temptation -[916.54 --> 918.86] Loves my way -[918.86 --> 922.10] When I cannot stand -[922.10 --> 924.02] I'll follow you -[924.02 --> 929.64] Jesus, you're my hope and save -[929.64 --> 933.12] When I cannot stand -[933.12 --> 934.64] I'll follow you -[934.64 --> 941.64] Jesus, you're my hope and save -[941.64 --> 942.64] Jesus, you're my hope and save -[942.64 --> 944.64] Jesus, you're my hope and save -[944.64 --> 946.64] Lord, I need you -[946.64 --> 947.64] Lord, I need you -[947.64 --> 951.64] Oh, I need you -[951.64 --> 954.64] Every hour -[954.64 --> 956.64] I need you -[956.64 --> 959.64] My one -[959.64 --> 960.64] I need you -[960.64 --> 962.64] My righteousness -[962.64 --> 968.64] Oh, God, how I need you -[968.64 --> 972.64] Lord, I need you -[972.64 --> 976.64] Lord, I need you -[976.64 --> 979.64] Here we are -[979.64 --> 980.64] Every hour -[980.64 --> 983.64] I need you -[983.64 --> 985.64] My one -[985.64 --> 986.64] I need you -[986.64 --> 988.64] Lord, I need you -[988.64 --> 989.64] Here we are -[989.64 --> 991.64] I need you -[991.64 --> 994.64] My one -[994.64 --> 995.64] I need you -[995.64 --> 998.64] My one -[998.64 --> 999.64] I need you -[999.64 --> 1029.62] Thank you. -[1029.64 --> 1059.62] Thank you. -[1059.64 --> 1061.64] Thank you. -[1089.64 --> 1091.64] Thank you. -[1119.64 --> 1121.64] Thank you. -[1149.64 --> 1151.64] Thank you. -[1179.64 --> 1181.64] Thank you. -[1181.64 --> 1183.64] Thank you. -[1183.64 --> 1185.64] Thank you. -[1185.64 --> 1187.64] Thank you. -[1187.64 --> 1189.64] Thank you. -[1189.64 --> 1191.64] Thank you. -[1191.64 --> 1193.64] Thank you. -[1193.64 --> 1195.64] Thank you. -[1195.64 --> 1197.64] Thank you. -[1197.64 --> 1199.64] Thank you. -[1199.64 --> 1201.64] Thank you. -[1201.64 --> 1203.64] Thank you. -[1203.64 --> 1205.64] Thank you. -[1205.64 --> 1209.64] Thank you. -[1209.64 --> 1211.64] Thank you. -[1211.64 --> 1213.64] Thank you. -[1213.64 --> 1215.64] Oh, -[1215.64 --> 1235.58] In nanoA -[1245.64 --> 1254.94] Good morning. Today's offerings are for the regular church budget and also for the seafarers ministry. -[1255.60 --> 1260.36] And with that, we've got Gary Roersma to tell us about it. -[1265.26 --> 1272.18] Well, thank you and good morning. It's nice to be with you again. I see some familiar faces and it's good to be here. -[1272.18 --> 1279.88] It's been a while since I think I spoke or preached here, but I know it was during my time, certainly as chaplain with the Ministry of Seafarers. -[1280.72 --> 1287.14] It was quite a journey out here from Vancouver, the rain and everything. And it's raining, I think, even possible heavier in Vancouver. -[1288.56 --> 1293.34] This past week, my wife and I celebrated two anniversaries. -[1294.14 --> 1299.32] On Wednesday, we celebrated the anniversary of our engagement. -[1299.32 --> 1303.96] How many of you remember the day that you were engaged, got engaged on? -[1304.52 --> 1311.16] And then on Friday, actually, even more importantly, we, no, we didn't get married two days later. -[1311.28 --> 1311.98] Don't, don't. -[1312.98 --> 1323.52] On Friday, we celebrated with my wife the day she was not raised in a Christian home, very secular home, very secular atmosphere. -[1323.52 --> 1335.12] But the day 45 years ago that she went down to the beach near Spanish banks with an old high school friend who had recently become a Christian himself. -[1335.42 --> 1338.32] And she gave her life to the Lord Jesus 45 years ago. -[1338.82 --> 1345.02] And so we biked down to Spanish banks to that area and nearby somewhere around in that region. -[1345.02 --> 1347.02] And we reflected on that. -[1347.12 --> 1348.44] So a very big day. -[1349.06 --> 1353.18] But we sang earlier, I need thee, Lord. -[1353.30 --> 1354.06] I need you. -[1354.16 --> 1355.26] I need you, Lord. -[1355.82 --> 1363.90] And I don't think we realize how difficult it is for people to say those words initially. -[1363.90 --> 1371.34] Because my wife said her biggest resistance was not wanting to give up her independence. -[1372.20 --> 1375.36] Not wanting to lean on someone else. -[1375.50 --> 1378.44] Those are really difficult words to say for many people today. -[1379.44 --> 1387.68] But when it comes to ships and seafarers, I can tell you they say those words a lot. -[1387.68 --> 1391.38] I was just on a ship yesterday and I was talking with some of the guys. -[1391.52 --> 1394.06] I said, so how they just come over from Asia. -[1394.40 --> 1395.38] How was the journey? -[1395.78 --> 1397.56] And they just went like this. -[1398.78 --> 1405.60] And they said, and this is the season when things are getting really starting to get rough for seafarers. -[1406.14 --> 1409.58] And they, you know, they experience those seas. -[1409.84 --> 1414.26] And I tell you, I don't meet that many atheists on board ships. -[1414.26 --> 1417.30] I'm not saying they're all committed followers of Jesus. -[1417.54 --> 1428.40] But in terms of their sense of their own puniness, if I may say, and dependence, there is a real, real sense of that. -[1429.26 --> 1430.58] Here's a picture of a ship. -[1430.74 --> 1435.88] But a verse I often read when I'm with seafarers, among many others. -[1436.00 --> 1437.60] But this one from Psalm 93. -[1438.26 --> 1439.96] The floods have lifted up, O Lord. -[1440.02 --> 1441.96] The floods have lifted up their voice. -[1441.96 --> 1445.16] The floods have lifted up their roaring. -[1446.18 --> 1449.08] Mightier than the thunders of many waters. -[1449.78 --> 1451.96] Mightier than the waves of the sea. -[1452.32 --> 1455.24] The Lord on high is mighty. -[1455.86 --> 1458.04] And that's a good reminder for seafarers. -[1458.46 --> 1461.44] Anyway, so we're still on ships regularly. -[1461.62 --> 1463.40] This is a ship just recently heading out. -[1463.68 --> 1468.34] I got the tugboat in the back heading out of the port of Vancouver to back out to sea, -[1468.46 --> 1469.96] which they're going in and out constantly. -[1469.96 --> 1471.28] Next slide. -[1472.48 --> 1475.40] What we've been continuing to serve seafarers. -[1475.82 --> 1479.38] COVID was through some, you know, hiccups into the whole thing. -[1479.46 --> 1481.62] But we continue to go on board. -[1482.06 --> 1484.32] And more and more are coming to the centers. -[1484.80 --> 1489.26] One of the things we've been doing is helping with a lot of vaccinations. -[1489.26 --> 1491.46] Because they couldn't get them elsewhere. -[1491.46 --> 1495.98] And if they want to travel and get home even, they had to have those vaccinations for so long. -[1496.60 --> 1498.58] So, and getting them their boosters and everything. -[1498.68 --> 1499.82] So, we're still doing that. -[1499.94 --> 1500.98] I was on a ship yesterday. -[1501.10 --> 1503.14] They were just saying, can you help us arrange boosters? -[1503.28 --> 1504.46] They said, yeah, we can do that. -[1504.52 --> 1505.20] So, be in touch. -[1505.20 --> 1508.90] So, we're doing a lot of this with seafarers. -[1509.00 --> 1513.10] We've done over 3,000 seafarers just in British Columbia. -[1513.36 --> 1515.00] It's pushing up to 4,000. -[1515.52 --> 1516.38] Over 3,500. -[1517.02 --> 1525.06] In all of North America, seafarers centers and others have helped with the vaccination of over 90,000 seafarers. -[1525.18 --> 1527.42] So, it's been a big campaign of ours. -[1528.04 --> 1528.54] Next slide. -[1529.40 --> 1531.34] This is a guy coming into the center. -[1531.80 --> 1535.08] As I said, ships are, you know, we've been going on board the ships. -[1535.38 --> 1538.24] Now, ships are starting to give grant shore leave. -[1538.72 --> 1543.28] And if they don't, like yesterday, I was on the ship and the guy said, no, we're not allowed. -[1543.62 --> 1546.14] And I said, you need to take this document. -[1546.28 --> 1549.82] And I bring it on board with me from Transport Canada that says, -[1549.90 --> 1555.68] now Transport Canada is requiring ships to grant shore leave to their seafarers. -[1555.68 --> 1564.72] And if they don't, if a port state inspector comes on board, they can site that ship for a deficiency, which is a major thing. -[1565.06 --> 1569.88] And that's helping slowly to loosen up some of those ships. -[1569.98 --> 1578.08] Well, this guy happened to be, he was, the strictest ships, as you can probably understand, are often those from China, the Chinese companies. -[1578.52 --> 1579.62] But this guy was Chinese. -[1579.76 --> 1582.42] And he was, they were, for some reason, able to come ashore. -[1582.42 --> 1587.06] He was so excited, he got to the center and he said, I want my picture taken. -[1587.12 --> 1588.16] This is the first time I've been off. -[1588.30 --> 1592.88] You know, I was on the ship the other day and I got, we kept, one of those guys that got his vaccination. -[1593.46 --> 1599.42] And we got to the center to get his vaccine and he opened the door and he put his foot outside and he stepped down. -[1599.48 --> 1604.18] He said, this is the first time in six months that I've been on ground, on land, you know. -[1604.56 --> 1607.38] And he said that he'd been able to get off the ship. -[1607.38 --> 1610.54] And this guy, too, was so excited, he said, we have to take a picture, take a picture. -[1610.72 --> 1613.30] He actually initiated it, so I got one with my phone, too. -[1613.42 --> 1613.84] Next slide. -[1615.00 --> 1617.64] This is recently a guy, well, this was over summer. -[1618.30 --> 1622.84] Deepak was a guy who came in with, he was with one of the cruise ships. -[1622.90 --> 1625.70] And he used to come in almost every week to our center. -[1625.70 --> 1631.52] And he'd sit down and chat and he was, he'd come from a Hindu background, become a Christian. -[1632.24 --> 1634.70] None of his family were Christians, didn't have a lot of support. -[1634.78 --> 1638.36] So he said, you know, pray with me, share with me. -[1638.46 --> 1645.90] And the last day he was in port, he said, I'm leaving, we're going on to another journey, another destination now. -[1646.16 --> 1648.66] But he said, will you give me a word from the Lord? -[1648.86 --> 1649.54] Preach to me. -[1649.62 --> 1650.82] He literally said, preach to me. -[1650.84 --> 1652.44] I don't get many individuals saying that. -[1652.44 --> 1656.64] And he said, I said, well, I'm not going to preach a sermon, but let's read. -[1656.76 --> 1659.02] And we read God's word together and we prayed. -[1659.72 --> 1661.72] And then afterwards he said, do you have a Bible? -[1661.96 --> 1663.04] I said, yeah, I've got Bibles. -[1663.42 --> 1664.54] Let's look at what language. -[1664.70 --> 1672.62] And I went through and he's from India, but we found a Bible in the Marathi language of India. -[1672.78 --> 1675.02] And he was so excited, that's his mother tongue. -[1675.62 --> 1676.82] And he said, can I have this? -[1676.84 --> 1679.18] I said, of course, that's who it's for, it's for you. -[1679.46 --> 1681.78] And we gave him the scriptures. -[1681.78 --> 1684.24] So these are the kind of things that we're continuing to do. -[1684.46 --> 1686.24] We're getting ready for Christmas at sea. -[1687.02 --> 1689.78] So thank you for support for that as well. -[1690.52 --> 1695.38] I know I saw the newsletter that I sent out posted up on your bulletin board. -[1695.48 --> 1697.98] I hope you all were able to get access to that somehow. -[1698.32 --> 1702.44] If not, look on ministrytoseafarers.com and you will find it under newsletters. -[1702.56 --> 1703.12] Next slide. -[1703.12 --> 1708.08] Oh, we have an intern right now, Georgia, in the front there. -[1708.38 --> 1713.72] Georgia Omoa comes from sort of Uganda via Kenya and then studied at Regent. -[1713.88 --> 1715.66] And she's working with us, doing a great job. -[1716.02 --> 1719.28] She's with us at least until the end of the year, probably into the new year a little bit, -[1719.64 --> 1720.70] helping out a lot. -[1720.70 --> 1727.14] And we're actually looking to hire a new person to help more with our communications and things like that. -[1727.26 --> 1729.48] So if you know of anybody who's interested, let me know. -[1729.62 --> 1730.08] Next slide. -[1730.46 --> 1731.32] I think it's the last one. -[1731.40 --> 1733.66] Okay, there's my information. -[1734.16 --> 1735.76] If you want to be in touch. -[1735.92 --> 1737.66] But thank you so much for your support. -[1738.02 --> 1740.86] For Tukes, if you're sending those in. -[1740.86 --> 1743.02] For donations. -[1743.46 --> 1744.36] For your prayers. -[1745.68 --> 1747.70] Just do keep praying for the ministry. -[1748.52 --> 1750.26] We got with my wife and I. -[1750.42 --> 1756.00] When we went to that place where she gave her life to the Lord or near that area. -[1756.42 --> 1758.62] She said, I've got to find a rock. -[1758.78 --> 1760.04] And she stood on top of the rock. -[1760.04 --> 1769.44] She said, I remember 45 years ago standing on the rock and just knowing that God would be my rock. -[1769.82 --> 1770.26] Always. -[1770.26 --> 1772.02] And he always has been. -[1772.44 --> 1776.72] And that's the rock we want to make for the seafarers all the time. -[1776.80 --> 1779.50] So thank you so much for your prayers and for your support. -[1779.74 --> 1785.72] And continuing to care for seafarers who give so much to be away from their families. -[1786.02 --> 1788.94] And really appreciate the support that we can give. -[1788.94 --> 1789.44] Thank you. -[1789.44 --> 1805.24] As the offering is being taken, we're going to offer a song that I wrote quite a few years ago. -[1805.24 --> 1807.66] So I went through a bit of a rough spell. -[1808.26 --> 1813.04] And I just wanted to remind myself of God's love for me. -[1813.20 --> 1815.48] And I hope it resonates also for you. -[1815.48 --> 1843.74] To the weary I will give rest. -[1843.74 --> 1848.78] To the burden in me you'll find rest. -[1848.98 --> 1850.36] And you'll know. -[1852.36 --> 1855.26] I care for you. -[1855.26 --> 1856.26] And you'll know. -[1856.26 --> 1857.26] And you'll know. -[1857.26 --> 1858.26] And you'll know. -[1858.26 --> 1860.26] And you'll know. -[1860.26 --> 1862.02] My yoke is easy. -[1862.02 --> 1864.02] My burden is light. -[1864.02 --> 1865.02] My yoke is easy. -[1865.02 --> 1866.02] My burden is light. -[1866.02 --> 1872.02] My burden is light. -[1872.02 --> 1873.10] And I forever have found 다시 setsig pouvoirs who are therefore able to touch with me. -[1873.86 --> 1875.72] And if you DVD and learn this time, you will be Nieke's love for me. -[1876.16 --> 1877.60] anxiously Waterouch cannot identify how бывает zero tocing on the page bat. -[1878.68 --> 1879.62] And I hope that they won't listen. -[1879.76 --> 1880.78] We hope it hasn't boîte точ Truстаточно. -[1880.82 --> 1881.68] And we'll all know the way it's possible. -[1881.68 --> 1885.26] Yourativas whichETH быстро gelir are therefore Africa's grace. -[1885.26 --> 1887.18] So when a lump of money returns then tell us why it gives us Moore this letter seems to elect. -[1887.18 --> 1890.18] I love you. -[1894.18 --> 1900.54] Neither death nor life can separate us. -[1904.04 --> 1912.54] No height, no depth, no angel, no power in his love will always be. -[1917.18 --> 1921.04] You are my shelter, in you I find rest. -[1921.54 --> 1925.92] My heart will praise you, I offer my best. -[1926.22 --> 1932.22] Cause I know, you care for me. -[1935.22 --> 1946.82] And I know, and I know, oh yes I know, yes I know, you love me. -[1947.18 --> 1948.18] Mmm. -[1948.18 --> 1955.04] To the weary I will give rest. -[1955.04 --> 1961.58] To the burdened in me you'll find rest and you'll know. -[1961.58 --> 1966.58] I care for you. -[1966.58 --> 1974.98] My yoke is easy, my burden is light. -[1975.58 --> 1979.70] I'll be your shelter through the terror of night. -[1979.90 --> 1981.22] And you'll know. -[1981.22 --> 1985.96] I care for you. -[1985.96 --> 1990.76] And you'll know. -[1990.76 --> 1993.04] And you'll know. -[1993.18 --> 1995.54] Oh yes, you'll know. -[1996.46 --> 1997.88] Yes, you'll know. -[1998.78 --> 2000.32] I love you. -[2000.32 --> 2010.38] Neither death nor life can separate us. -[2014.38 --> 2022.22] No height, no depth, no angel, no power in his love will always be. -[2022.22 --> 2030.78] You are my shelter, in you I find rest. -[2031.22 --> 2035.44] My heart will praise you, I offer my best. -[2035.72 --> 2041.78] Cause I know, you care for me. -[2041.78 --> 2056.10] And I know, and I know, oh yes I know, yes I know, yes I know, you love me. -[2071.78 --> 2078.44] Good morning. -[2078.70 --> 2083.12] We can have the three year olds up to grade four come join me at the front for a few minutes. -[2083.24 --> 2084.18] Oh you guys are way over here. -[2085.26 --> 2088.56] Why don't you guys come over this way and we'll chat just a quick minute. -[2089.20 --> 2090.58] I can't even get to the chair. -[2093.78 --> 2096.56] Hi guys. -[2096.56 --> 2102.38] Hey, guess what, we're starting a new theme in children's worship time today. -[2102.90 --> 2105.06] Do you guys remember what we've done the last four weeks? -[2105.58 --> 2106.22] What have we done? -[2106.94 --> 2107.38] Creation. -[2107.60 --> 2109.44] We did a huge four weeks on creation. -[2109.78 --> 2112.44] And now we're starting a new theme. -[2112.72 --> 2114.86] And it's a little more complicated. -[2115.80 --> 2117.90] It's on the theme of trust. -[2118.74 --> 2120.68] It's a little word, but it's a big concept. -[2120.92 --> 2122.52] What do you guys think trust means? -[2122.56 --> 2124.10] What does it mean to trust something? -[2124.10 --> 2126.74] We trust in God. -[2126.80 --> 2127.40] What do you think Haley? -[2127.56 --> 2128.88] I know a song about trust. -[2128.90 --> 2130.14] We know a song about trust. -[2130.22 --> 2130.68] That's cool. -[2130.78 --> 2134.04] How would you explain trust to me? -[2134.82 --> 2136.92] What does it mean to trust something? -[2138.90 --> 2140.10] That's kind of tricky, hey? -[2140.36 --> 2147.72] Is it like if I go outside right now and I don't put my coat on and my umbrella, what will happen to me? -[2147.80 --> 2149.66] Do I trust the rain will make me wet? -[2150.36 --> 2151.46] No, we don't trust that. -[2151.58 --> 2151.64] No. -[2152.24 --> 2153.82] Well that's not really trust though, is it? -[2153.82 --> 2155.04] That's just something that will happen. -[2155.14 --> 2155.86] I'll just get wet. -[2156.02 --> 2157.08] We just figure that will happen. -[2157.08 --> 2164.10] But what about if I sit on this chair and I expect it to stay sitting up? -[2164.62 --> 2166.38] Is that trusting this chair to stay sitting? -[2167.38 --> 2168.16] Yeah, it is. -[2168.18 --> 2168.48] It is. -[2168.54 --> 2174.22] I'm trusting these legs that they're not going to fall to pieces on me and that I can sit in this chair properly. -[2174.22 --> 2174.70] Right? -[2174.70 --> 2175.14] Right? -[2175.14 --> 2181.94] Or like every day when your mom and dad's drive to work, they trust that their car is going to start. -[2182.26 --> 2184.62] They trust that the brakes are still good. -[2184.70 --> 2185.02] Right? -[2185.02 --> 2187.16] We put a lot of trust in a lot of things. -[2187.30 --> 2188.58] What do you trust, Hayley? -[2188.80 --> 2189.94] We wear seatbelts. -[2189.94 --> 2190.20] Yep. -[2190.34 --> 2192.48] That we trust that the seatbelt's going to work properly. -[2192.86 --> 2194.90] What about when you guys go to the pool? -[2195.54 --> 2196.62] Who here goes to the pool? -[2197.36 --> 2197.76] Lots. -[2198.00 --> 2198.14] Yeah. -[2198.24 --> 2200.10] It's like going to the pool every day outside right now. -[2200.98 --> 2201.26] Yeah. -[2201.26 --> 2207.86] And you run off the pool and you see your mom and dad right there and you jump into the water. -[2208.50 --> 2210.82] Are you trusting your mom and dad to be there to help you out? -[2211.58 --> 2211.98] No. -[2212.48 --> 2212.96] Oh boy. -[2213.18 --> 2216.14] Well, I think we have a couple sermons on our way then. -[2216.22 --> 2216.46] Hey? -[2216.66 --> 2216.94] Yeah. -[2217.46 --> 2218.26] Well, sure we do. -[2218.30 --> 2220.32] If you say, hey dad, you got to catch me. -[2220.92 --> 2222.48] We trust he's going to do that. -[2222.52 --> 2222.82] Right? -[2223.56 --> 2224.24] And guess what? -[2224.66 --> 2227.46] Sometimes people trust you guys to do stuff. -[2227.46 --> 2231.84] Sometimes your moms and dads ask you guys to do things or your sisters and brothers -[2231.84 --> 2235.66] or a grandma, grandpa or someone else and they expect you to do it. -[2235.74 --> 2235.82] Right? -[2235.94 --> 2236.20] Trust. -[2236.30 --> 2239.14] There's like you expect something to happen. -[2239.42 --> 2244.42] You believe something will follow through the way you think it's going to happen. -[2244.90 --> 2245.20] Right? -[2245.86 --> 2249.10] And trust is sometimes we have to do that without really knowing how it works. -[2249.50 --> 2249.68] Right? -[2249.70 --> 2251.04] I was thinking about that this morning. -[2251.08 --> 2252.16] I was brushing my teeth. -[2252.48 --> 2253.90] I was trushing the toothpaste. -[2253.98 --> 2255.56] It's going to make sure everything's clean. -[2255.84 --> 2257.06] I don't know how it works. -[2257.46 --> 2258.72] I just trust it. -[2258.86 --> 2259.92] I don't know how that stuff works. -[2259.98 --> 2260.66] It's like magic. -[2260.80 --> 2260.92] Right? -[2261.08 --> 2261.52] Toothpaste. -[2262.32 --> 2265.34] Anyway, we're going to talk more about that in Children's Worship Time. -[2265.40 --> 2269.16] We've got some games to try out and we're going to start talking all about what it means -[2269.16 --> 2273.40] to trust even sometimes when we don't really understand what's going on. -[2274.02 --> 2274.42] Yeah? -[2275.00 --> 2275.24] Okay. -[2275.28 --> 2278.90] Let's stand and we'll do the Children's Blessing and then we'll head to Children's Worship Time. -[2282.04 --> 2282.56] All right. -[2282.60 --> 2283.52] Let's put our arms up. -[2284.26 --> 2284.56] Ready? -[2284.56 --> 2284.64] Ready? -[2285.50 --> 2287.14] The Lord be with you. -[2287.46 --> 2289.28] And now what will you do? -[2289.28 --> 2319.26] Thank you. -[2319.28 --> 2322.02] And I'd like to lead you in our congregational prayer. -[2325.00 --> 2327.82] Lord, we come before you in this rainy morning. -[2328.48 --> 2331.62] Lord, we come because you are the one who draws us here. -[2332.12 --> 2333.78] You are the God of creation. -[2334.78 --> 2338.44] You've created everything and you've held everything up in your hands. -[2339.02 --> 2342.02] Lord, we see your hand in the changing of the seasons, -[2342.40 --> 2344.20] the fact that the rain has returned once again, -[2344.32 --> 2348.12] and we're thankful for that, that we can see the land replenished. -[2348.12 --> 2354.18] Lord, we are thankful for the opportunity to spend time here and worship together. -[2356.62 --> 2360.56] Lord, we have many concerns that we have in our hearts, -[2360.72 --> 2365.30] and sometimes those things are health-related, sometimes they're mental illness. -[2366.06 --> 2369.84] Lord, we have people in our church family who have undergone surgery -[2369.84 --> 2371.42] and are looking forward to healing. -[2371.92 --> 2375.48] We've had members that have broken bones and require healing that way. -[2375.48 --> 2379.12] We have members that are suffering with mental illness, -[2379.28 --> 2381.26] and we pray for healing in that way as well. -[2382.72 --> 2386.24] Lord, we have many challenges in our lives, -[2386.38 --> 2390.48] and some of those challenges including the loss of loved ones. -[2391.06 --> 2393.26] I think of the Hubert's and Verkaiq families -[2393.26 --> 2396.48] who have recently put to rest a father and grandfather. -[2396.48 --> 2401.50] Lord, there are many others in our church that have been through the same. -[2402.52 --> 2406.88] Sometimes it's a long ago, sometimes it's more recent. -[2407.22 --> 2409.86] But each time there's an ache in our hearts, -[2409.96 --> 2413.82] and we pray for your strength and a blessing in those families -[2413.82 --> 2415.72] as they go through this grieving process. -[2415.72 --> 2420.52] Lord, we're thankful for the many aspects of our church -[2420.52 --> 2422.56] that we can be blessing others with, -[2423.18 --> 2427.68] or whether that is in ministries to the children, -[2427.96 --> 2430.78] as the children have just gone to the children's worship time, -[2431.34 --> 2432.96] those who are leading cadets and gems, -[2433.34 --> 2437.46] those who are doing coffee break and leading Bible studies and care groups. -[2438.60 --> 2441.46] Lord, we ask that your hand be in each one of these groups, -[2441.46 --> 2442.76] each one of the leaders, -[2443.72 --> 2446.06] that you may be able to bless each one with the spirit -[2446.06 --> 2450.54] and the desire and the willingness to do your will in the jobs that they have. -[2451.86 --> 2459.04] Lord, we're thankful for Chris and Kevin and Brandon and Aaron -[2459.04 --> 2461.62] who have gone down to Mexico to Rosarito -[2461.62 --> 2468.20] to be able to connect with the group that our young people spend each spring with. -[2468.20 --> 2470.88] We pray that you may bless their connections, -[2471.46 --> 2475.60] that our church may be a blessing to those who are in need down there, -[2475.94 --> 2479.04] the leaders of churches and Bible study groups there. -[2479.98 --> 2483.10] We pray especially for Jody and Uriel and the work that they do, -[2483.72 --> 2486.20] as that is also an outreach of our church ministry. -[2487.82 --> 2492.08] Lord, we're thankful for the blessing of a women's conference in the last two days. -[2492.62 --> 2497.14] Lord, that that may have been a time of sharing, of learning, -[2497.14 --> 2502.10] of working through the process of grief sometimes, -[2502.24 --> 2504.16] sometimes difficulties that you experience. -[2504.98 --> 2509.20] We pray that that may have been an opportunity for healing, -[2510.02 --> 2513.50] that those who have come through that may have been blessed. -[2513.50 --> 2527.16] Lord, we're thankful once again for Bill Tuninghead to be able to preach your word. -[2527.64 --> 2533.94] Lord, we're thankful that we can have somebody on our pulpit to be able to preach your word, -[2534.34 --> 2539.86] or that your word may truly be words that are coming out of Bill's mouth this morning. -[2539.86 --> 2546.86] Lord, we pray that our congregation may be welcoming to newcomers, -[2547.74 --> 2549.12] to strangers in our community. -[2549.86 --> 2555.06] Lord, that we may be your hands in helping those that are in need. -[2558.42 --> 2561.70] Lord, we pray that we may be a blessing as we go out this week, -[2562.16 --> 2566.32] that we may be able to share your word and your gospel to those that we work with, -[2566.44 --> 2567.64] those we spend time with. -[2567.64 --> 2571.52] Lord, we pray all this not because we are worthy, -[2572.10 --> 2575.18] but because your Son, Jesus Christ, died for us on the cross. -[2576.28 --> 2577.86] Lord, we come as sinful people. -[2578.36 --> 2579.60] We come as brokenhearted. -[2580.30 --> 2585.12] And we pray that your Spirit may work with us in our hearts, in our lives, -[2585.46 --> 2589.80] that we may be further strengthened by our faith in you. -[2590.66 --> 2592.38] This we ask in your name alone. -[2592.78 --> 2593.10] Amen. -[2597.64 --> 2615.54] Churches used to have pulpits. -[2617.94 --> 2619.26] Gary, thank you for that. -[2619.84 --> 2621.10] You blessed me. -[2621.18 --> 2621.96] You blessed us. -[2621.96 --> 2624.22] I don't know how many years ago. -[2624.50 --> 2625.96] How many years have you been? -[2627.12 --> 2627.56] Five. -[2627.66 --> 2627.84] Okay. -[2628.10 --> 2633.02] I served on a committee to evaluate, you know, seafarers to ministry. -[2634.90 --> 2637.76] And so I got the big picture. -[2637.92 --> 2638.60] It was so beautiful. -[2638.98 --> 2646.42] And I am so grateful to God that you have accepted responsibility to serve in that ministry. -[2646.42 --> 2646.86] Wow. -[2647.46 --> 2647.90] Wow. -[2648.48 --> 2648.92] Beautiful. -[2658.92 --> 2667.66] Passage we're reading this morning is Matthew 11, verses 25 to 30. -[2669.88 --> 2673.84] I'd like to read it, give it a little introduction, and then get into the message. -[2673.84 --> 2679.50] Matthew 11. -[2680.50 --> 2684.46] At that time, at that time, Jesus said, -[2685.04 --> 2688.62] I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, -[2689.32 --> 2693.36] because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned -[2693.36 --> 2696.78] and revealed them to little children. -[2696.78 --> 2703.86] Yes, Father, for this is what you were pleased to do. -[2705.18 --> 2707.90] And since Jesus was there praying, -[2709.52 --> 2714.76] all things have been committed to me by my Father. -[2714.76 --> 2719.44] No one knows the Son except the Father, -[2719.84 --> 2723.92] and no one knows the Father except the Son, -[2724.58 --> 2728.94] and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him. -[2731.54 --> 2732.94] Come to me, -[2733.64 --> 2737.42] all you who are weary and burdened, -[2737.42 --> 2741.24] and I will give you rest. -[2742.24 --> 2745.24] Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, -[2745.34 --> 2748.60] for I am gentle and humble in heart, -[2749.04 --> 2753.16] and you will find rest for your souls. -[2754.26 --> 2755.90] For my yoke is easy, -[2756.58 --> 2758.66] and my burden is light. -[2758.66 --> 2760.82] The word of the Lord. -[2761.48 --> 2762.78] Thanks be to God. -[2764.88 --> 2766.38] Well, brothers and sisters, -[2766.72 --> 2768.48] you're probably aware of that, -[2768.56 --> 2772.46] that we're in that tradition called Protestants. -[2773.48 --> 2776.58] Now, that really means you're protest people. -[2776.80 --> 2778.60] We are protest ants. -[2780.50 --> 2781.34] The Catholics, -[2781.98 --> 2784.44] I don't know how we actually got the name, -[2784.44 --> 2789.46] but this is October 30, -[2790.14 --> 2792.24] and October 31st, -[2792.24 --> 2794.50] I don't know if we celebrate all that much anymore, -[2794.64 --> 2796.08] is really Reformation Day, -[2796.82 --> 2798.66] because that's the day -[2798.66 --> 2803.06] that the Protestant movement started. -[2804.18 --> 2805.88] You know, they didn't know quite how to mark it, -[2805.88 --> 2808.88] because a movement doesn't just start in an afternoon, -[2809.12 --> 2810.92] but they mark it by the time -[2810.92 --> 2812.36] when Martin Luther went -[2812.36 --> 2815.14] and he posted his 95 statements -[2815.14 --> 2817.20] on the door of the church in Wittenberg, -[2817.50 --> 2819.86] because he was taking exception -[2819.86 --> 2822.74] to some of the things that were going on -[2822.74 --> 2826.36] in the Roman Catholic or the Catholic church. -[2828.60 --> 2829.24] Particularly, -[2829.74 --> 2831.20] that's the one that shines out, -[2832.16 --> 2834.24] this matter of indulgences. -[2835.76 --> 2836.78] Now, think about that. -[2838.16 --> 2840.00] If this church was saying, -[2840.00 --> 2841.72] if you pay money, -[2842.72 --> 2844.90] your sins will be forgiven. -[2846.16 --> 2846.88] We'd say, -[2846.96 --> 2850.34] now that's pretty false teaching. -[2850.90 --> 2852.04] That's what they were doing. -[2853.60 --> 2854.66] Not only false, -[2855.00 --> 2856.66] it is physically, -[2857.20 --> 2858.46] you might say economically, -[2858.76 --> 2860.64] and spiritually abusive. -[2861.52 --> 2862.62] And even the Catholics -[2862.62 --> 2864.40] have come to see the need -[2864.40 --> 2867.36] of some reform within themselves. -[2867.36 --> 2871.38] As, connecting to our passage, -[2871.54 --> 2873.36] did the religious establishment -[2873.36 --> 2875.08] in Jesus' day -[2875.08 --> 2877.78] need serious reform? -[2879.46 --> 2881.50] Those who were in charge of the temple -[2881.50 --> 2882.26] and of worship -[2882.26 --> 2884.74] needed correction, -[2885.00 --> 2885.82] to put it lightly. -[2886.98 --> 2889.16] And our passage begins with the words, -[2889.60 --> 2890.88] at that time, -[2891.40 --> 2893.44] what was happening? -[2893.44 --> 2893.80] Well, -[2895.08 --> 2897.42] what was happening at that time -[2897.42 --> 2898.90] in the first century -[2898.90 --> 2900.88] is in many ways -[2900.88 --> 2902.26] similar to what was going on -[2902.26 --> 2903.80] in the 16th century. -[2904.36 --> 2906.18] We continually need -[2906.18 --> 2907.50] reformation -[2907.50 --> 2908.86] in our churches. -[2909.30 --> 2910.64] We never should become -[2910.64 --> 2911.66] smug, -[2912.44 --> 2912.72] lest -[2912.72 --> 2915.32] the force of religion -[2915.32 --> 2916.98] takes over -[2916.98 --> 2918.24] the power -[2918.24 --> 2919.58] of the gospel. -[2919.58 --> 2922.34] So what was happening -[2922.34 --> 2923.30] in the first century? -[2926.38 --> 2926.86] Well, -[2927.04 --> 2929.36] the beginning of chapter 11, -[2929.54 --> 2930.46] we discover, -[2930.80 --> 2931.82] if we just get a little bit -[2931.82 --> 2932.82] of context here, -[2932.98 --> 2933.18] that -[2933.18 --> 2937.20] Jesus' cousin John -[2937.20 --> 2938.18] was in prison -[2938.18 --> 2940.12] because -[2940.12 --> 2941.88] John had called out -[2941.88 --> 2943.08] his prime minister -[2943.08 --> 2943.74] of the day, -[2943.82 --> 2944.42] if you will, -[2944.76 --> 2946.08] for doing something -[2946.08 --> 2947.36] immoral. -[2947.36 --> 2948.70] and so here -[2948.70 --> 2949.30] he's sitting -[2949.30 --> 2950.44] in jail -[2950.44 --> 2951.90] and he's starting -[2951.90 --> 2952.76] to wonder, -[2953.72 --> 2953.96] you know, -[2954.76 --> 2956.60] solitary confinement -[2956.60 --> 2957.40] makes you have -[2957.40 --> 2959.12] second thoughts. -[2960.76 --> 2962.30] So he sends out -[2962.30 --> 2963.60] his disciples, -[2963.86 --> 2964.30] those who -[2964.30 --> 2965.60] he taught, -[2965.86 --> 2966.18] to say, -[2966.32 --> 2967.66] ask Jesus, -[2968.48 --> 2969.52] are you actually -[2969.52 --> 2970.94] the one who was to come? -[2971.74 --> 2972.52] Or should we yet -[2972.52 --> 2973.80] expect somebody else? -[2975.00 --> 2975.88] This is at the beginning -[2975.88 --> 2977.02] of Matthew 11. -[2977.36 --> 2978.22] And Jesus says, -[2978.30 --> 2978.76] you send, -[2979.50 --> 2980.18] you go back -[2980.18 --> 2981.56] to John -[2981.56 --> 2982.60] and you report -[2982.60 --> 2984.10] what you've seen -[2984.10 --> 2985.02] and heard. -[2985.14 --> 2986.42] And here's what Jesus said, -[2986.44 --> 2987.20] if we can have that -[2987.20 --> 2987.82] on the PowerPoint. -[2988.50 --> 2988.86] He said, -[2988.92 --> 2990.26] the blind receive sight. -[2990.36 --> 2991.32] I think I may have -[2991.32 --> 2991.96] sent that in. -[2992.44 --> 2993.84] The lame walk, -[2993.94 --> 2995.06] those who have leprosy -[2995.06 --> 2995.72] are cured. -[2996.14 --> 2997.38] The deaf hear, -[2997.58 --> 2998.92] the dead are raised, -[2999.26 --> 3000.66] and the good news -[3000.66 --> 3001.48] is preached -[3001.48 --> 3002.92] to the poor. -[3002.92 --> 3005.52] And he didn't add, -[3005.82 --> 3006.64] and don't worry, -[3006.74 --> 3008.06] I'll take care of Herod. -[3008.20 --> 3009.52] He added this, -[3010.12 --> 3011.58] blessed is the one -[3011.58 --> 3012.76] who does not -[3012.76 --> 3014.42] fall away -[3014.42 --> 3015.60] on account -[3015.60 --> 3017.18] of me. -[3019.38 --> 3020.50] And then after -[3020.50 --> 3022.18] he sends these folks away, -[3022.28 --> 3023.78] he turns to his own disciples -[3023.78 --> 3025.32] and he starts explaining -[3025.32 --> 3026.94] what was going on -[3026.94 --> 3027.84] with John, -[3027.84 --> 3030.12] how it is -[3030.12 --> 3031.10] that good people -[3031.10 --> 3031.84] like him -[3031.84 --> 3033.18] end up -[3033.18 --> 3034.20] in prison. -[3035.62 --> 3036.04] And Jesus, -[3036.20 --> 3036.68] I'll put it -[3036.68 --> 3037.64] in our own words, -[3037.84 --> 3038.04] says, -[3038.14 --> 3038.36] look, -[3039.90 --> 3040.78] John came -[3040.78 --> 3041.74] eating vegan -[3041.74 --> 3042.54] and sleeping -[3042.54 --> 3043.26] in the van -[3043.26 --> 3043.84] and they said -[3043.84 --> 3044.84] he's off his rocker. -[3045.60 --> 3046.58] I come accepting -[3046.58 --> 3047.42] all the extras -[3047.42 --> 3048.82] and they call me -[3048.82 --> 3049.30] a glutton, -[3049.88 --> 3050.42] a drunkard. -[3052.86 --> 3053.90] Jesus goes -[3053.90 --> 3054.54] and he says, -[3054.68 --> 3055.58] I want to compare -[3055.58 --> 3056.70] this generation -[3056.70 --> 3058.48] to little kids -[3058.48 --> 3059.98] who no matter -[3059.98 --> 3061.40] what game you offer, -[3061.76 --> 3062.70] it's not the one -[3062.70 --> 3063.52] they want to play. -[3066.18 --> 3067.00] After that, -[3067.10 --> 3068.14] Jesus goes on -[3068.14 --> 3069.24] to denounce -[3069.24 --> 3070.20] in verse 20 -[3070.20 --> 3071.02] the towns -[3071.02 --> 3073.06] in which -[3073.06 --> 3073.70] he had done -[3073.70 --> 3074.42] miracles. -[3075.30 --> 3076.24] He denounces -[3076.24 --> 3077.02] them because -[3077.02 --> 3078.38] they did not -[3078.38 --> 3079.34] repent. -[3080.82 --> 3081.80] And he issues -[3081.80 --> 3082.94] strong warnings. -[3083.50 --> 3083.96] This is -[3083.96 --> 3084.82] loving, -[3085.14 --> 3085.72] gentle Jesus -[3085.72 --> 3087.00] in verse 24 -[3087.00 --> 3087.62] saying, -[3088.10 --> 3088.70] it will be -[3088.70 --> 3089.78] more bearable -[3089.78 --> 3090.66] for Sodom -[3090.66 --> 3091.76] and on the -[3091.76 --> 3092.58] day of judgment -[3092.58 --> 3093.78] than for -[3093.78 --> 3095.20] those cities -[3095.20 --> 3096.74] in which people -[3096.74 --> 3097.24] did not -[3097.24 --> 3098.12] repent. -[3100.18 --> 3100.68] Well, -[3100.78 --> 3101.44] it's at -[3101.44 --> 3102.86] that time -[3102.86 --> 3104.90] that Jesus -[3104.90 --> 3105.58] says -[3105.58 --> 3107.14] in verse 25, -[3108.10 --> 3109.04] I praise you -[3109.04 --> 3109.50] Father, -[3111.18 --> 3112.84] Lord of heaven -[3112.84 --> 3113.40] and on earth -[3113.40 --> 3115.54] because you -[3115.54 --> 3116.06] have hidden -[3116.06 --> 3116.92] these things -[3116.92 --> 3118.00] from the wise -[3118.00 --> 3118.56] and learned -[3118.56 --> 3120.04] and revealed -[3120.04 --> 3121.06] them to -[3121.06 --> 3122.66] little children. -[3122.90 --> 3123.16] Yes, -[3123.26 --> 3123.60] Father, -[3124.32 --> 3125.02] for this -[3125.02 --> 3125.94] was your -[3125.94 --> 3126.70] good pleasure. -[3128.90 --> 3129.38] Well, -[3129.44 --> 3130.06] what are these -[3130.06 --> 3130.78] things that -[3130.78 --> 3131.46] Sunday school -[3131.46 --> 3132.52] children get -[3132.52 --> 3134.82] but the educated -[3134.82 --> 3135.82] are missing? -[3135.82 --> 3138.36] and why -[3138.36 --> 3138.96] would it be -[3138.96 --> 3140.14] actually God's -[3140.14 --> 3141.68] good pleasure -[3141.68 --> 3143.78] that the wise -[3143.78 --> 3144.92] and the learned -[3144.92 --> 3146.26] people are -[3146.26 --> 3147.20] not getting -[3147.20 --> 3147.82] what the -[3147.82 --> 3148.74] children did? -[3149.88 --> 3150.46] Shouldn't -[3150.46 --> 3151.54] everyone get -[3151.54 --> 3151.68] it? -[3151.76 --> 3152.70] In fact, -[3153.54 --> 3154.38] aren't these -[3154.38 --> 3155.62] educated ones -[3155.62 --> 3156.62] the very ones -[3156.62 --> 3157.16] who you would -[3157.16 --> 3159.12] prefer to -[3159.12 --> 3159.70] get it? -[3160.70 --> 3161.54] Intelligent, -[3162.10 --> 3163.24] well-educated, -[3163.62 --> 3164.82] influential people -[3164.82 --> 3165.66] with life -[3165.66 --> 3166.38] experience? -[3166.94 --> 3167.36] Yes, -[3167.82 --> 3168.52] give it to -[3168.52 --> 3168.88] them. -[3171.30 --> 3171.90] Well, -[3172.04 --> 3172.54] in answer -[3172.54 --> 3173.10] to that, -[3173.94 --> 3174.70] first of all, -[3174.86 --> 3175.68] Jesus never -[3175.68 --> 3176.62] rejoices and -[3176.62 --> 3177.30] he isn't here -[3177.30 --> 3178.24] rejoicing in -[3178.24 --> 3179.20] the unbelief -[3179.20 --> 3179.70] of these -[3179.70 --> 3180.14] people. -[3180.64 --> 3181.26] I thank you -[3181.26 --> 3181.76] God for -[3181.76 --> 3182.34] reprobates. -[3182.40 --> 3182.78] That's not -[3182.78 --> 3183.46] what's happening. -[3183.94 --> 3184.60] He's never -[3184.60 --> 3186.14] grateful when -[3186.14 --> 3187.08] people do -[3187.08 --> 3187.86] not believe. -[3188.28 --> 3189.02] Even here, -[3189.10 --> 3189.68] he's calling -[3189.68 --> 3190.46] for faith. -[3191.78 --> 3192.36] And neither -[3192.36 --> 3192.96] is Jesus -[3192.96 --> 3193.96] saying that -[3193.96 --> 3194.62] wisdom and -[3194.62 --> 3196.02] learning is -[3196.02 --> 3196.66] useless. -[3196.84 --> 3197.32] He's not -[3197.32 --> 3198.12] condemning -[3198.12 --> 3199.28] intellectual -[3199.28 --> 3200.28] power. -[3200.98 --> 3201.86] He himself -[3201.86 --> 3202.86] is all-wise. -[3203.54 --> 3203.82] Is there -[3203.82 --> 3204.64] any intellect -[3204.64 --> 3205.20] in the -[3205.20 --> 3205.76] universe -[3205.76 --> 3207.32] more powerful -[3207.32 --> 3208.26] or bright -[3208.26 --> 3209.10] than that -[3209.10 --> 3210.14] of Christ? -[3211.92 --> 3213.20] What Jesus -[3213.20 --> 3213.98] is speaking -[3213.98 --> 3214.86] against is -[3214.86 --> 3215.72] intellectual -[3215.72 --> 3216.88] pride. -[3218.88 --> 3219.66] Intellect -[3219.66 --> 3220.66] does not -[3220.66 --> 3222.00] shut Jesus -[3222.00 --> 3222.66] out. -[3222.66 --> 3224.16] Pride does. -[3225.34 --> 3225.68] Or as -[3225.68 --> 3226.12] was said -[3226.12 --> 3226.64] earlier, -[3227.52 --> 3228.34] the difficulty -[3228.34 --> 3229.30] of saying -[3229.30 --> 3230.24] I need -[3230.24 --> 3230.50] you. -[3232.10 --> 3233.30] That takes -[3233.30 --> 3233.80] humility. -[3235.80 --> 3236.98] Sharp minds -[3236.98 --> 3238.08] can and -[3238.08 --> 3238.82] they will -[3238.82 --> 3240.24] come to -[3240.24 --> 3240.82] Christ. -[3241.86 --> 3243.40] But self-made -[3243.40 --> 3244.50] know-it-alls -[3244.50 --> 3245.48] will have no -[3245.48 --> 3246.76] need for this -[3246.76 --> 3247.16] teacher. -[3248.68 --> 3249.46] Jesus isn't -[3249.46 --> 3250.10] looking for -[3250.10 --> 3250.76] ignorance, -[3251.22 --> 3252.32] but for -[3252.32 --> 3252.92] humility, -[3253.74 --> 3254.08] for the -[3254.08 --> 3254.94] trusting -[3254.94 --> 3256.70] innocence of -[3256.70 --> 3257.52] a child -[3257.52 --> 3258.56] that will -[3258.56 --> 3259.42] accept -[3259.42 --> 3261.02] these things. -[3262.62 --> 3263.44] What are -[3263.44 --> 3264.18] these things -[3264.18 --> 3265.36] that children -[3265.36 --> 3266.68] can comprehend? -[3269.06 --> 3269.70] Well, -[3269.76 --> 3270.84] at first glance, -[3270.90 --> 3271.58] when you hear -[3271.58 --> 3272.18] what Jesus -[3272.18 --> 3272.68] says, -[3272.76 --> 3273.02] you say, -[3273.10 --> 3273.26] oh, -[3273.34 --> 3274.00] this is not -[3274.00 --> 3274.96] what you call -[3274.96 --> 3276.56] Sunday school -[3276.56 --> 3277.70] type stuff, -[3277.80 --> 3278.24] it sounds -[3278.24 --> 3278.84] more like -[3278.84 --> 3279.70] seminary -[3279.70 --> 3280.64] material. -[3280.96 --> 3281.34] And we do -[3281.34 --> 3282.04] have to grant, -[3282.12 --> 3282.66] he's talking -[3282.66 --> 3283.80] to adults -[3283.80 --> 3284.12] here, -[3284.20 --> 3284.52] when he -[3284.52 --> 3285.08] makes this -[3285.08 --> 3286.38] next profound -[3286.38 --> 3287.30] and actually -[3287.30 --> 3288.48] deeply theological -[3288.48 --> 3289.20] statement -[3289.20 --> 3291.02] in verse 27. -[3293.20 --> 3294.72] All things -[3294.72 --> 3297.52] have been -[3297.52 --> 3298.12] committed -[3298.12 --> 3299.34] to me -[3299.34 --> 3301.84] by my -[3301.84 --> 3302.26] father. -[3302.26 --> 3304.26] All things -[3304.26 --> 3305.26] have been -[3305.26 --> 3306.26] committed -[3306.26 --> 3307.10] to me -[3307.10 --> 3307.40] no one -[3307.40 --> 3308.04] knows the -[3308.04 --> 3308.42] son -[3308.42 --> 3309.38] except the -[3309.38 --> 3309.76] father. -[3311.32 --> 3312.24] And no -[3312.24 --> 3312.82] one knows -[3312.82 --> 3313.54] the father -[3313.54 --> 3315.40] except the -[3315.40 --> 3315.78] son -[3315.78 --> 3318.52] and those -[3318.52 --> 3319.02] to whom -[3319.02 --> 3319.74] the son -[3319.74 --> 3320.98] chooses -[3320.98 --> 3322.80] to reveal -[3322.80 --> 3323.14] him. -[3326.14 --> 3326.98] We need -[3326.98 --> 3327.30] to let -[3327.30 --> 3328.02] that sinking, -[3328.32 --> 3329.64] that teaching -[3329.64 --> 3330.32] or doctrine -[3330.32 --> 3331.02] sink in. -[3331.02 --> 3333.72] because there's -[3333.72 --> 3334.36] some mystery, -[3334.60 --> 3335.52] there's wonder -[3335.52 --> 3336.24] attached, -[3336.80 --> 3337.32] not only to -[3337.32 --> 3337.82] what Jesus -[3337.82 --> 3338.46] is saying, -[3338.58 --> 3339.92] but to who -[3339.92 --> 3340.66] he is. -[3340.72 --> 3341.06] It's the -[3341.06 --> 3341.60] kind of -[3341.60 --> 3342.44] mystery that -[3342.44 --> 3343.68] adults will -[3343.68 --> 3344.54] try and figure -[3344.54 --> 3345.12] it all out -[3345.12 --> 3345.56] while kids -[3345.56 --> 3345.94] will just -[3345.94 --> 3346.36] sit there -[3346.36 --> 3347.10] in amazement. -[3348.94 --> 3349.34] It's like -[3349.34 --> 3350.60] an astronomer -[3350.60 --> 3351.20] looks at the -[3351.20 --> 3351.84] sky and is -[3351.84 --> 3352.26] trying to -[3352.26 --> 3352.82] figure everything -[3352.82 --> 3353.04] out. -[3353.28 --> 3353.30] Well, -[3353.70 --> 3353.98] you know, -[3354.06 --> 3354.92] the kid in -[3354.92 --> 3355.40] us just -[3355.40 --> 3355.92] looks up -[3355.92 --> 3356.38] as we did -[3356.38 --> 3356.70] the other -[3356.70 --> 3357.24] day when we -[3357.24 --> 3357.46] were on -[3357.46 --> 3357.84] vacation. -[3357.84 --> 3358.66] We saw -[3358.66 --> 3359.30] the Milky Way. -[3359.38 --> 3359.52] It was -[3359.52 --> 3360.54] unbelievable. -[3362.78 --> 3363.24] Bookish -[3363.24 --> 3364.18] theologians -[3364.18 --> 3364.80] try to -[3364.80 --> 3365.76] discover the -[3365.76 --> 3366.78] historical -[3366.78 --> 3367.52] Jesus. -[3368.08 --> 3368.70] Kids just -[3368.70 --> 3369.08] want to -[3369.08 --> 3369.48] hear his -[3369.48 --> 3369.92] story. -[3372.38 --> 3372.98] Let me -[3372.98 --> 3373.64] digress to -[3373.64 --> 3373.98] make a -[3373.98 --> 3374.22] point. -[3375.70 --> 3376.04] And I'm -[3376.04 --> 3376.54] really glad. -[3376.70 --> 3377.42] I didn't -[3377.42 --> 3377.88] know this -[3377.88 --> 3378.10] was going -[3378.10 --> 3378.24] to happen, -[3378.38 --> 3379.22] but the -[3379.22 --> 3379.54] one I'm -[3379.54 --> 3380.18] speaking about, -[3380.22 --> 3380.82] our granddaughter -[3380.82 --> 3381.34] Hadley, -[3381.44 --> 3381.94] she showed -[3381.94 --> 3382.32] up this -[3382.32 --> 3382.56] morning. -[3382.70 --> 3382.88] I thought, -[3382.98 --> 3383.16] oh, -[3383.22 --> 3383.44] what's -[3383.44 --> 3383.90] Hadley going -[3383.90 --> 3384.24] to do? -[3384.56 --> 3385.00] And you'll -[3385.00 --> 3385.90] know why I'm -[3385.90 --> 3386.18] a little -[3386.18 --> 3386.58] concerned. -[3386.66 --> 3386.94] But she -[3386.94 --> 3387.40] left for -[3387.40 --> 3387.70] Sunday -[3387.70 --> 3388.04] school, -[3388.22 --> 3388.74] so I -[3388.74 --> 3389.08] can now -[3389.08 --> 3389.76] talk about -[3389.76 --> 3389.94] her. -[3390.24 --> 3391.78] But Hadley, -[3391.90 --> 3392.74] our granddaughter, -[3392.92 --> 3394.04] was enamored -[3394.04 --> 3394.88] with Santa. -[3395.36 --> 3396.06] We came in -[3396.06 --> 3396.48] one day -[3396.48 --> 3397.48] talking about -[3397.48 --> 3397.96] him and -[3397.96 --> 3398.66] the elves -[3398.66 --> 3399.18] and everything -[3399.18 --> 3399.56] else, -[3399.66 --> 3400.28] and I -[3400.28 --> 3400.74] just saw -[3400.74 --> 3401.08] false -[3401.08 --> 3401.48] teaching. -[3402.70 --> 3403.46] My wife -[3403.46 --> 3403.64] said, -[3403.72 --> 3404.08] don't go -[3404.08 --> 3404.36] there. -[3405.16 --> 3405.90] But I -[3405.90 --> 3406.42] couldn't -[3406.42 --> 3406.86] resist. -[3407.06 --> 3407.40] I mean, -[3407.52 --> 3408.08] shucks, -[3408.22 --> 3408.50] false -[3408.50 --> 3409.04] teaching. -[3409.22 --> 3409.84] So I -[3409.84 --> 3410.22] took a -[3410.22 --> 3410.58] gentle -[3410.58 --> 3411.42] apologetic -[3411.42 --> 3411.96] approach, -[3412.08 --> 3412.32] and I -[3412.32 --> 3412.52] said, -[3412.60 --> 3412.96] Hadley, -[3413.84 --> 3414.32] tell me -[3414.32 --> 3414.98] about -[3414.98 --> 3415.36] Santa. -[3415.36 --> 3416.92] She -[3416.92 --> 3417.30] was more -[3417.30 --> 3417.74] than happy -[3417.74 --> 3417.96] to. -[3418.40 --> 3418.64] She -[3418.64 --> 3419.04] got up, -[3419.12 --> 3419.22] she -[3419.22 --> 3419.60] prompted -[3419.60 --> 3420.00] herself -[3420.00 --> 3420.32] on the -[3420.32 --> 3420.72] chair in -[3420.72 --> 3421.26] my office -[3421.26 --> 3421.52] there, -[3421.96 --> 3422.72] and she -[3422.72 --> 3423.22] went on -[3423.22 --> 3423.58] for a -[3423.58 --> 3423.88] good -[3423.88 --> 3424.24] minute. -[3425.20 --> 3425.42] She -[3425.42 --> 3425.60] was -[3425.60 --> 3426.12] describing -[3426.12 --> 3426.64] Santa, -[3427.06 --> 3427.36] who he -[3427.36 --> 3427.76] was, -[3428.28 --> 3428.48] how he -[3428.48 --> 3428.78] went all -[3428.78 --> 3429.12] over the -[3429.12 --> 3429.44] world, -[3429.84 --> 3430.30] gave gifts -[3430.30 --> 3430.80] to people, -[3430.92 --> 3431.38] went down -[3431.38 --> 3432.12] chimneys, -[3432.54 --> 3433.14] was very -[3433.14 --> 3433.72] generous, -[3434.10 --> 3434.36] and she -[3434.36 --> 3435.80] actually went -[3435.80 --> 3436.70] around and she -[3436.70 --> 3437.66] named all the -[3437.66 --> 3438.56] people in -[3438.56 --> 3439.20] our family, -[3439.32 --> 3439.70] she gave -[3439.70 --> 3440.70] gifts to all -[3440.70 --> 3441.08] this, -[3441.52 --> 3442.10] and then she -[3442.10 --> 3443.06] concluded by -[3443.06 --> 3443.70] saying, -[3444.22 --> 3445.14] he gives -[3445.14 --> 3445.62] gifts to -[3445.62 --> 3446.28] everyone in -[3446.28 --> 3446.64] the world, -[3446.76 --> 3447.04] and I -[3447.04 --> 3447.34] quote, -[3447.60 --> 3447.90] even -[3447.90 --> 3448.48] Americans. -[3453.30 --> 3453.94] Later I -[3453.94 --> 3454.30] asked her, -[3454.38 --> 3454.84] so what if, -[3455.14 --> 3455.60] because I was -[3455.60 --> 3456.26] still trying to -[3456.26 --> 3457.12] unearth her -[3457.12 --> 3458.16] bad theology, -[3458.46 --> 3459.18] so what if I -[3459.18 --> 3460.02] don't get a -[3460.02 --> 3460.42] gift? -[3461.44 --> 3462.10] Dead serious, -[3462.46 --> 3462.94] well I guess -[3462.94 --> 3463.56] that would mean -[3463.56 --> 3463.90] you were -[3463.90 --> 3464.32] naughty. -[3467.12 --> 3467.78] I had a -[3467.78 --> 3468.10] word with -[3468.10 --> 3468.48] her mother, -[3468.48 --> 3471.52] and in -[3471.52 --> 3472.42] the end, -[3472.80 --> 3473.38] truth went -[3473.38 --> 3473.76] out. -[3474.38 --> 3474.78] Yes, -[3475.08 --> 3476.08] not through -[3476.08 --> 3476.44] me, -[3476.74 --> 3477.16] but a few -[3477.16 --> 3478.04] months later -[3478.04 --> 3478.74] she discovered -[3478.74 --> 3479.20] it wasn't -[3479.20 --> 3479.80] true because -[3479.80 --> 3481.34] her cousin -[3481.34 --> 3482.54] Nico informed -[3482.54 --> 3482.92] her that it -[3482.92 --> 3483.32] was actually -[3483.32 --> 3484.10] his mom -[3484.10 --> 3484.72] that gave -[3484.72 --> 3485.00] him all -[3485.00 --> 3485.28] the gifts. -[3486.00 --> 3486.36] Oh, -[3486.78 --> 3487.18] that was, -[3488.12 --> 3488.70] here's the -[3488.70 --> 3488.96] point, -[3490.16 --> 3490.80] kids will -[3490.80 --> 3491.34] pretty much -[3491.34 --> 3491.92] believe whatever -[3491.92 --> 3492.40] you tell -[3492.40 --> 3492.62] them. -[3495.68 --> 3496.42] If you -[3496.42 --> 3497.48] tell children -[3497.48 --> 3499.32] this is -[3499.32 --> 3500.46] mind boggling, -[3501.46 --> 3502.30] the God -[3502.30 --> 3502.60] of the -[3502.60 --> 3503.16] universe -[3503.16 --> 3504.26] who created -[3504.26 --> 3504.90] everything -[3504.90 --> 3505.64] there is, -[3506.86 --> 3507.40] made a -[3507.40 --> 3508.26] decision in -[3508.26 --> 3509.38] time to -[3509.38 --> 3510.46] come down -[3510.46 --> 3511.62] as a -[3511.62 --> 3512.10] baby. -[3515.22 --> 3516.22] Get your -[3516.22 --> 3516.66] head around -[3516.66 --> 3516.98] that. -[3519.46 --> 3520.14] And through -[3520.14 --> 3521.12] this child -[3521.12 --> 3522.94] to accomplish -[3522.94 --> 3525.08] all things, -[3526.08 --> 3529.24] all things -[3529.24 --> 3530.00] have been -[3530.00 --> 3530.62] committed -[3530.62 --> 3531.92] to me, -[3532.44 --> 3533.36] Jesus said. -[3534.36 --> 3535.36] The kids -[3535.36 --> 3536.06] could sense -[3536.06 --> 3536.28] it. -[3537.26 --> 3537.86] They were in -[3537.86 --> 3538.14] awe. -[3539.72 --> 3540.38] They could -[3540.38 --> 3541.28] see his -[3541.28 --> 3542.02] approach, -[3542.54 --> 3543.44] his humility, -[3543.98 --> 3544.30] his -[3544.30 --> 3545.22] gentleness. -[3546.76 --> 3547.60] But the -[3547.60 --> 3548.52] theologians of -[3548.52 --> 3549.02] the day were -[3549.02 --> 3549.72] trying to figure -[3549.72 --> 3550.24] him out. -[3550.86 --> 3551.72] They didn't like -[3551.72 --> 3552.56] his competition. -[3552.86 --> 3553.32] The crowds -[3553.32 --> 3553.90] were following -[3553.90 --> 3554.20] him. -[3554.28 --> 3554.58] They were -[3554.58 --> 3555.76] dissecting -[3555.76 --> 3556.42] every move -[3556.42 --> 3557.02] he made. -[3557.38 --> 3557.58] And they -[3557.58 --> 3558.08] were keeping -[3558.08 --> 3558.68] him at a -[3558.68 --> 3559.52] safe distance. -[3561.80 --> 3562.22] Listen, -[3562.38 --> 3562.88] says Jesus, -[3563.06 --> 3563.66] no one knows -[3563.66 --> 3564.14] the Father -[3564.14 --> 3564.80] in heaven -[3564.80 --> 3565.56] like I do. -[3565.62 --> 3566.12] And no one -[3566.12 --> 3567.38] knows me -[3567.38 --> 3567.90] like the -[3567.90 --> 3568.56] Father does. -[3568.62 --> 3568.98] We have -[3568.98 --> 3569.96] this deep, -[3570.32 --> 3571.94] rich relationship -[3571.94 --> 3573.38] as Father -[3573.38 --> 3574.66] and Son. -[3576.28 --> 3576.76] And the -[3576.76 --> 3577.36] kicker is -[3577.36 --> 3577.84] that that -[3577.84 --> 3578.82] beautiful, -[3579.58 --> 3580.18] glorious -[3580.18 --> 3581.26] relationship -[3581.26 --> 3582.62] of love -[3582.62 --> 3583.94] and unity -[3583.94 --> 3585.32] is for -[3585.32 --> 3585.84] everyone. -[3588.20 --> 3589.38] But we -[3589.38 --> 3590.10] don't get -[3590.10 --> 3590.78] to set -[3590.78 --> 3591.86] the terms -[3591.86 --> 3593.52] of endearment. -[3594.44 --> 3595.50] Here's the -[3595.50 --> 3596.72] startling truth, -[3596.86 --> 3597.14] which, -[3597.82 --> 3598.50] if we will -[3598.50 --> 3599.84] receive at -[3599.84 --> 3601.08] face value, -[3602.18 --> 3603.20] will radically -[3603.20 --> 3604.12] alter our -[3604.12 --> 3605.62] life and -[3605.62 --> 3606.14] our -[3606.14 --> 3607.42] relationships -[3607.42 --> 3608.42] and how we -[3608.42 --> 3609.40] view ourselves -[3609.40 --> 3610.18] and the -[3610.18 --> 3611.12] truth is -[3611.12 --> 3612.00] that God -[3612.00 --> 3613.44] has come -[3613.44 --> 3614.20] to us -[3614.20 --> 3615.38] as a gift -[3615.38 --> 3616.46] from above -[3616.46 --> 3618.52] through Christ. -[3619.52 --> 3620.36] He's simply -[3620.36 --> 3620.94] living on -[3620.94 --> 3621.50] this earth. -[3622.66 --> 3623.34] The way -[3623.34 --> 3624.06] he died. -[3625.24 --> 3626.02] Powerful -[3626.02 --> 3629.12] resurrection. -[3630.28 --> 3630.54] His -[3630.54 --> 3631.06] descending -[3631.06 --> 3631.92] into heaven. -[3631.92 --> 3632.92] God -[3632.92 --> 3633.92] is -[3633.92 --> 3634.92] God -[3634.92 --> 3635.36] If you -[3635.36 --> 3636.06] believe -[3636.06 --> 3637.58] that that -[3637.58 --> 3638.32] happened -[3638.32 --> 3639.60] and that -[3639.60 --> 3640.16] that is -[3640.16 --> 3640.64] God -[3640.64 --> 3641.34] coming to -[3641.34 --> 3641.86] you and -[3641.86 --> 3642.24] me, -[3642.68 --> 3643.34] displaying -[3643.34 --> 3644.60] his love -[3644.60 --> 3645.40] and his -[3645.40 --> 3645.92] mercy, -[3646.44 --> 3647.10] you get -[3647.10 --> 3647.74] to enter -[3647.74 --> 3648.34] into -[3648.34 --> 3649.04] that -[3649.04 --> 3649.86] relationship -[3649.86 --> 3651.12] that Jesus -[3651.12 --> 3652.26] has. -[3653.26 --> 3654.20] If we -[3654.20 --> 3654.74] will not -[3654.74 --> 3655.70] resist -[3655.70 --> 3656.96] his inviting -[3656.96 --> 3657.80] spirit, -[3658.18 --> 3658.98] we will be -[3658.98 --> 3659.94] pulled into -[3659.94 --> 3661.56] this redemptive -[3661.56 --> 3662.36] relationship -[3662.36 --> 3663.70] through Christ. -[3668.36 --> 3669.18] Now this -[3669.18 --> 3669.54] isn't -[3669.54 --> 3670.86] something that -[3670.86 --> 3672.28] requires a -[3672.28 --> 3673.28] high IQ, -[3673.58 --> 3674.06] if you will. -[3675.22 --> 3675.78] You don't -[3675.78 --> 3676.28] need to go to -[3676.28 --> 3676.76] university. -[3676.98 --> 3677.38] In fact, -[3677.68 --> 3678.38] quite frankly, -[3678.92 --> 3679.54] most people -[3679.54 --> 3680.50] lose their -[3680.50 --> 3680.90] faith, -[3681.36 --> 3682.22] particularly at -[3682.22 --> 3682.64] today's -[3682.64 --> 3683.20] universities. -[3684.16 --> 3684.86] But you -[3684.86 --> 3685.32] don't have to -[3685.32 --> 3685.88] go there or -[3685.88 --> 3686.74] to seminary. -[3686.74 --> 3689.20] all you -[3689.20 --> 3689.64] and I -[3689.64 --> 3690.22] need to -[3690.22 --> 3690.62] know -[3690.62 --> 3692.16] about God -[3692.16 --> 3694.06] and to -[3694.06 --> 3694.42] live in -[3694.42 --> 3694.98] this world -[3694.98 --> 3695.46] that he's -[3695.46 --> 3696.14] placed us -[3696.14 --> 3696.54] in, -[3697.06 --> 3697.94] starts and -[3697.94 --> 3698.58] ends with -[3698.58 --> 3699.86] listening to -[3699.86 --> 3700.42] the voice -[3700.42 --> 3700.98] of Jesus -[3700.98 --> 3701.98] and being -[3701.98 --> 3703.06] ready to -[3703.06 --> 3703.70] obey it. -[3705.72 --> 3706.36] Again, -[3706.44 --> 3707.00] Jesus is -[3707.00 --> 3707.52] the center -[3707.52 --> 3707.96] of all -[3707.96 --> 3708.42] thought. -[3709.64 --> 3710.22] In him -[3710.22 --> 3710.90] are hidden -[3710.90 --> 3713.16] all the -[3713.16 --> 3713.64] treasures -[3713.64 --> 3714.72] of wisdom -[3714.72 --> 3716.32] and knowledge. -[3717.80 --> 3718.60] And no -[3718.60 --> 3718.98] one will -[3718.98 --> 3719.54] help you -[3719.54 --> 3720.08] or I -[3720.08 --> 3720.72] think more -[3720.72 --> 3721.32] clearly -[3721.32 --> 3722.92] than Jesus -[3722.92 --> 3724.14] because he -[3724.14 --> 3724.86] carries the -[3724.86 --> 3726.18] secret to -[3726.18 --> 3727.46] God's -[3727.46 --> 3728.36] predestined -[3728.36 --> 3729.62] plan for -[3729.62 --> 3730.44] this world -[3730.44 --> 3731.28] and for -[3731.28 --> 3731.76] our life -[3731.76 --> 3732.38] personally. -[3734.36 --> 3735.60] It's God's -[3735.60 --> 3737.26] choice to -[3737.26 --> 3737.94] do all his -[3737.94 --> 3738.70] communicating -[3738.70 --> 3739.46] of who he -[3739.46 --> 3740.92] is through -[3740.92 --> 3741.76] his son, -[3742.64 --> 3742.98] Jesus. -[3744.72 --> 3745.86] And so -[3745.86 --> 3746.30] that's what -[3746.30 --> 3747.00] Jesus does -[3747.00 --> 3747.48] next. -[3747.62 --> 3747.88] And this -[3747.88 --> 3748.32] is usually -[3748.32 --> 3748.92] the passage -[3748.92 --> 3750.00] we like to -[3750.00 --> 3750.42] quote the -[3750.42 --> 3751.16] most because -[3751.16 --> 3751.52] it's so -[3751.52 --> 3751.92] beautiful. -[3752.12 --> 3752.64] When Jesus -[3752.64 --> 3753.32] says in -[3753.32 --> 3754.26] verses 28 -[3754.26 --> 3755.18] and 29, -[3755.74 --> 3756.28] come to -[3756.28 --> 3757.36] me, all -[3757.36 --> 3757.98] you who -[3757.98 --> 3758.54] are weary -[3758.54 --> 3759.84] and burdened, -[3759.84 --> 3760.44] and I'll -[3760.44 --> 3760.80] give you -[3760.80 --> 3761.32] rest. -[3762.12 --> 3762.84] Take my -[3762.84 --> 3763.48] yoke upon -[3763.48 --> 3765.06] you and -[3765.06 --> 3766.40] learn from -[3766.40 --> 3768.04] me, from -[3768.04 --> 3769.38] gentle and -[3769.38 --> 3769.98] humble in -[3769.98 --> 3771.62] heart, and -[3771.62 --> 3772.16] you will -[3772.16 --> 3773.26] find rest -[3773.26 --> 3773.92] for your -[3773.92 --> 3774.46] souls. -[3774.72 --> 3776.04] for my -[3776.04 --> 3776.48] yoke is -[3776.48 --> 3777.78] easy and -[3777.78 --> 3778.52] my burden -[3778.52 --> 3779.76] is light. -[3782.12 --> 3782.98] What a -[3782.98 --> 3783.92] wonderful word -[3783.92 --> 3784.48] for our -[3784.48 --> 3785.46] weary world, -[3787.30 --> 3788.18] torn apart -[3788.18 --> 3789.70] by COVID, -[3790.78 --> 3791.62] politics, -[3793.20 --> 3793.96] and a -[3793.96 --> 3794.76] free-for-all -[3794.76 --> 3795.78] of ideologies -[3795.78 --> 3796.36] out there. -[3796.36 --> 3799.74] to those -[3799.74 --> 3800.92] exhausted with -[3800.92 --> 3801.88] the task -[3801.88 --> 3802.48] of trying -[3802.48 --> 3803.08] to eke -[3803.08 --> 3804.14] out a -[3804.14 --> 3804.48] living, -[3805.58 --> 3806.40] to anyone -[3806.40 --> 3807.48] tired of -[3807.48 --> 3808.50] never quite -[3808.50 --> 3810.20] measuring up -[3810.20 --> 3811.04] and burdened -[3811.04 --> 3811.48] by this -[3811.48 --> 3812.56] pressure to -[3812.56 --> 3813.34] succeed, -[3813.94 --> 3815.20] Jesus offers -[3815.20 --> 3817.52] himself as -[3817.52 --> 3818.56] peace and -[3818.56 --> 3818.96] rest. -[3818.96 --> 3819.06] rest. -[3820.28 --> 3821.04] There's a -[3821.04 --> 3821.46] lot of -[3821.46 --> 3822.30] confusion in -[3822.30 --> 3822.76] our world -[3822.76 --> 3824.58] today, and -[3824.58 --> 3824.94] it really -[3824.94 --> 3825.48] doesn't matter -[3825.48 --> 3825.86] where you -[3825.86 --> 3827.68] go, whether -[3827.68 --> 3828.20] it's in the -[3828.20 --> 3829.02] business world, -[3829.18 --> 3829.80] the political -[3829.80 --> 3831.58] world, education -[3831.58 --> 3833.44] world, the -[3833.44 --> 3834.26] church world, -[3835.26 --> 3836.62] we find people -[3836.62 --> 3837.60] pushing their -[3837.60 --> 3840.40] agendas, and -[3840.40 --> 3840.94] in our -[3840.94 --> 3843.28] competitive world -[3843.28 --> 3843.94] where some -[3843.94 --> 3845.16] win and too -[3845.16 --> 3845.96] many lose, -[3845.96 --> 3847.32] most everyone -[3847.32 --> 3847.98] gets worn -[3847.98 --> 3848.30] out. -[3849.70 --> 3850.14] And I think -[3850.14 --> 3850.64] that's why -[3850.64 --> 3851.98] folks are -[3851.98 --> 3853.00] often so eager -[3853.00 --> 3854.02] to get on -[3854.02 --> 3854.82] a plane and -[3854.82 --> 3856.36] not worry -[3856.36 --> 3857.34] too much, at -[3857.34 --> 3857.80] least for the -[3857.80 --> 3858.32] moment, how -[3858.32 --> 3858.86] much crude -[3858.86 --> 3859.34] oil it's -[3859.34 --> 3859.58] going to -[3859.58 --> 3860.22] take, just -[3860.22 --> 3861.14] bring me to -[3861.14 --> 3861.72] a sunny, -[3861.86 --> 3862.66] restful place. -[3865.40 --> 3865.60] You know, -[3865.66 --> 3866.04] the folks -[3866.04 --> 3866.80] Jesus spoke -[3866.80 --> 3867.94] to were -[3867.94 --> 3868.72] burdened by -[3868.72 --> 3870.62] a combination -[3870.62 --> 3871.82] of political -[3871.82 --> 3873.64] and religious -[3873.64 --> 3874.98] obligations. -[3875.96 --> 3880.36] church can -[3880.36 --> 3881.10] also be a -[3881.10 --> 3881.60] place like -[3881.60 --> 3881.84] that. -[3883.02 --> 3883.74] If we -[3883.74 --> 3884.40] aren't careful, -[3885.12 --> 3885.64] pressure, -[3886.58 --> 3887.16] obligation, -[3889.00 --> 3891.20] I confess -[3891.20 --> 3891.66] to being -[3891.66 --> 3892.04] guilty. -[3892.28 --> 3892.92] As a -[3892.92 --> 3893.48] pastor, I -[3893.48 --> 3894.06] wanted to -[3894.06 --> 3895.32] make things -[3895.32 --> 3895.98] happen. -[3896.92 --> 3897.66] We're going -[3897.66 --> 3898.34] to be a -[3898.34 --> 3899.86] going church. -[3901.48 --> 3902.40] And, you -[3902.40 --> 3903.48] know, whenever -[3903.48 --> 3904.32] we start, and -[3904.32 --> 3904.76] you have to be -[3904.76 --> 3906.00] careful, it -[3906.00 --> 3906.56] gets to be a -[3906.56 --> 3907.54] longer story, but -[3907.54 --> 3908.10] that's often -[3908.10 --> 3908.84] when things can -[3908.84 --> 3909.76] get ugly and -[3909.76 --> 3912.48] souls can get -[3912.48 --> 3914.04] scarred and -[3914.04 --> 3915.36] hearts can be -[3915.36 --> 3916.42] made weary by -[3916.42 --> 3917.22] the varying -[3917.22 --> 3919.70] obligations and -[3919.70 --> 3920.44] accompanying -[3920.44 --> 3921.70] tension. -[3923.78 --> 3924.98] I will -[3924.98 --> 3925.68] confess, I -[3925.68 --> 3926.38] haven't often -[3926.38 --> 3927.16] been patient -[3927.16 --> 3927.64] enough. -[3929.16 --> 3930.02] Willing to -[3930.02 --> 3930.56] live in -[3930.56 --> 3931.60] Christian community -[3931.60 --> 3932.60] and asking the -[3932.60 --> 3933.24] question, what -[3933.24 --> 3934.06] does it mean as -[3934.06 --> 3934.76] followers of -[3934.76 --> 3935.90] Christ to -[3935.90 --> 3936.44] take the -[3936.44 --> 3937.22] next step -[3937.22 --> 3939.82] together in -[3939.82 --> 3941.56] him, trusting -[3941.56 --> 3941.92] him? -[3945.64 --> 3946.96] And I -[3946.96 --> 3948.16] think this is -[3948.16 --> 3949.50] why our -[3949.50 --> 3950.30] culture has -[3950.30 --> 3951.54] thrown out, and -[3951.54 --> 3952.28] we hear a lot of -[3952.28 --> 3953.56] negative talk -[3953.56 --> 3954.54] today about -[3954.54 --> 3955.66] evangelical -[3955.66 --> 3957.26] Christians in -[3957.26 --> 3957.96] North America, -[3957.96 --> 3959.26] America, because -[3959.26 --> 3959.90] they've come to -[3959.90 --> 3960.88] see it as -[3960.88 --> 3962.90] legalistic, and -[3962.90 --> 3963.92] something that -[3963.92 --> 3965.00] strips joy and -[3965.00 --> 3966.24] peace from -[3966.24 --> 3967.00] their life. -[3968.78 --> 3969.32] Now, in all -[3969.32 --> 3970.58] fairness, if I -[3970.58 --> 3971.62] may, if we -[3971.62 --> 3972.84] ask whether -[3972.84 --> 3973.92] people today are -[3973.92 --> 3975.32] more at peace -[3975.32 --> 3977.04] without religion, -[3978.54 --> 3979.12] is this -[3979.12 --> 3980.26] churchless -[3980.26 --> 3982.46] generation, as -[3982.46 --> 3984.08] it's increasing, -[3984.62 --> 3985.60] are they more -[3985.60 --> 3986.42] at peace? -[3986.42 --> 3986.54] peace? -[3987.74 --> 3988.80] I think you -[3988.80 --> 3989.14] know the -[3989.14 --> 3989.58] answer. -[3990.76 --> 3991.12] But the -[3991.12 --> 3992.48] point being, it -[3992.48 --> 3992.94] doesn't matter -[3992.94 --> 3994.62] who we are, no -[3994.62 --> 3995.84] one is exempt -[3995.84 --> 3997.00] from the call -[3997.00 --> 3999.04] of Christ and -[3999.04 --> 4000.06] from our need -[4000.06 --> 4000.78] for him. -[4002.10 --> 4003.10] No better -[4003.10 --> 4004.22] person than -[4004.22 --> 4006.58] Jesus, so -[4006.58 --> 4008.76] gentle and -[4008.76 --> 4009.82] humble of -[4009.82 --> 4010.36] heart. -[4011.40 --> 4011.98] The word -[4011.98 --> 4012.58] gentle there -[4012.58 --> 4013.60] means meek, -[4014.76 --> 4015.08] and that -[4015.08 --> 4015.48] doesn't mean -[4015.48 --> 4016.10] pushover, -[4016.42 --> 4016.96] the Bible -[4016.96 --> 4017.62] says Moses -[4017.62 --> 4018.06] was the -[4018.06 --> 4018.66] meekest man -[4018.66 --> 4019.10] on all the -[4019.10 --> 4019.60] earth, and -[4019.60 --> 4020.68] if you don't -[4020.68 --> 4021.16] have to read -[4021.16 --> 4021.80] too long to -[4021.80 --> 4022.12] know that -[4022.12 --> 4022.88] Moses was no -[4022.88 --> 4023.46] pushover. -[4024.96 --> 4025.94] Jesus is the -[4025.94 --> 4027.30] meekest of -[4027.30 --> 4028.18] all servants, -[4028.58 --> 4028.94] he's very -[4028.94 --> 4030.36] gentle, but -[4030.36 --> 4031.00] he's also very -[4031.00 --> 4033.24] firm, revealing -[4033.24 --> 4034.64] to us the -[4034.64 --> 4036.04] tender heart -[4036.04 --> 4037.16] of God. -[4039.22 --> 4040.30] God's entire -[4040.30 --> 4043.14] approach in -[4043.14 --> 4044.40] identifying with -[4044.40 --> 4046.58] humans is -[4046.58 --> 4047.20] revealed to -[4047.20 --> 4047.74] us in -[4047.74 --> 4048.40] Jesus, where -[4048.40 --> 4049.84] we see his -[4049.84 --> 4051.60] heart, his -[4051.60 --> 4052.26] humility, -[4053.22 --> 4054.32] identifying with -[4054.32 --> 4056.18] us in our -[4056.18 --> 4057.70] flesh, taking -[4057.70 --> 4058.26] on our -[4058.26 --> 4059.02] burdens to -[4059.02 --> 4060.04] the point you -[4060.04 --> 4060.86] might say it -[4060.86 --> 4062.52] wearied him to -[4062.52 --> 4063.02] death. -[4065.10 --> 4066.52] There we see -[4066.52 --> 4068.14] how high and -[4068.14 --> 4069.16] wide and deep -[4069.16 --> 4070.36] and long is -[4070.36 --> 4071.54] the love of -[4071.54 --> 4072.06] the Father. -[4074.56 --> 4075.42] And it's this -[4075.42 --> 4076.26] Jesus who -[4076.26 --> 4077.06] calls us, -[4077.26 --> 4077.82] first of all, -[4077.90 --> 4078.74] simply to -[4078.74 --> 4079.76] come to -[4079.76 --> 4080.16] him. -[4081.40 --> 4081.94] I love -[4081.94 --> 4083.72] reading what -[4083.72 --> 4084.54] Oskin has -[4084.54 --> 4085.68] said in his -[4085.68 --> 4086.00] book. -[4086.12 --> 4086.68] It's a book -[4086.68 --> 4087.38] called The -[4087.38 --> 4087.82] Call. -[4088.32 --> 4088.78] He says, -[4089.32 --> 4089.96] we are not, -[4090.12 --> 4091.04] some of you may -[4091.04 --> 4091.72] know this author, -[4091.84 --> 4092.82] we're not primarily -[4092.82 --> 4094.52] called to do -[4094.52 --> 4096.18] something or -[4096.18 --> 4097.32] go somewhere, -[4097.80 --> 4099.50] we're called to -[4099.50 --> 4100.18] someone. -[4101.70 --> 4102.04] It's a little -[4102.04 --> 4102.86] bit like marriage, -[4102.92 --> 4103.40] if you will. -[4104.44 --> 4105.78] We don't marry -[4105.78 --> 4106.60] someone for what -[4106.60 --> 4107.26] they'll do for -[4107.26 --> 4108.48] us, but simply -[4108.48 --> 4109.22] to be with -[4109.22 --> 4109.42] them. -[4110.90 --> 4111.60] We're not -[4111.60 --> 4112.68] called first to -[4112.68 --> 4113.82] special work, -[4114.88 --> 4116.40] but to God. -[4117.76 --> 4119.24] And Jesus is -[4119.24 --> 4120.14] that call. -[4121.78 --> 4122.68] As Augustine -[4122.68 --> 4123.64] said, our hearts -[4123.64 --> 4124.46] will remain -[4124.46 --> 4125.68] restless until -[4125.68 --> 4126.96] we do come -[4126.96 --> 4128.46] to rest in -[4128.46 --> 4128.86] Jesus. -[4130.06 --> 4130.82] And when we -[4130.82 --> 4131.64] believe in him -[4131.64 --> 4132.52] and are embraced -[4132.52 --> 4133.16] by him, -[4133.90 --> 4134.72] then, yeah, -[4134.82 --> 4135.34] he'll give us -[4135.34 --> 4135.96] something to do. -[4136.08 --> 4136.70] Becoming a -[4136.70 --> 4137.30] Christian and -[4137.30 --> 4138.00] accepting the -[4138.00 --> 4138.56] call doesn't -[4138.56 --> 4139.82] mean we get -[4139.82 --> 4140.84] lazy and do -[4140.84 --> 4141.28] nothing. -[4143.04 --> 4143.98] No one who -[4143.98 --> 4144.62] enters the -[4144.62 --> 4145.42] kingdom of God -[4145.42 --> 4145.92] will find -[4145.92 --> 4146.84] themselves suddenly -[4146.84 --> 4147.54] bored to -[4147.54 --> 4148.66] death or -[4148.66 --> 4149.20] unemployed. -[4149.88 --> 4150.54] He, as it -[4150.54 --> 4151.90] were, yokes -[4151.90 --> 4152.58] us up. -[4152.74 --> 4153.56] Come to me, -[4153.64 --> 4154.30] and I'll -[4154.30 --> 4155.20] also give you -[4155.20 --> 4156.18] something meaningful -[4156.18 --> 4157.34] to do. -[4158.26 --> 4159.08] A yoke. -[4160.22 --> 4160.88] Jesus was -[4160.88 --> 4161.56] familiar with -[4161.56 --> 4161.72] them. -[4162.82 --> 4163.14] They were -[4163.14 --> 4164.06] measured carefully -[4164.06 --> 4164.96] like a suit -[4164.96 --> 4166.02] to fit a body. -[4167.50 --> 4168.30] Or, you might -[4168.30 --> 4168.90] say, like a -[4168.90 --> 4169.22] dentist. -[4169.50 --> 4169.86] You know, they -[4169.86 --> 4171.42] put a bridge -[4171.42 --> 4172.06] in or a -[4172.06 --> 4172.66] mold and they -[4172.66 --> 4174.18] make it just -[4174.18 --> 4175.72] right so that -[4175.72 --> 4176.42] you can bite -[4176.42 --> 4177.14] hard and not -[4177.14 --> 4177.94] have any pain. -[4178.78 --> 4179.46] That's what a -[4179.46 --> 4180.08] yoke is meant -[4180.08 --> 4180.56] to be. -[4182.04 --> 4182.52] And Jesus -[4182.52 --> 4183.40] does lay on -[4183.40 --> 4184.02] us burdens. -[4186.14 --> 4186.90] Put it this -[4186.90 --> 4187.28] way, and -[4187.28 --> 4187.66] we'll end -[4187.66 --> 4188.84] with just -[4188.84 --> 4189.50] talking about -[4189.50 --> 4189.94] what this -[4189.94 --> 4190.52] yoke might -[4190.52 --> 4190.84] be. -[4190.92 --> 4191.34] As our -[4191.34 --> 4191.90] hearts are -[4191.90 --> 4193.22] softened and -[4193.22 --> 4194.58] strengthened by -[4194.58 --> 4196.18] God's love, -[4197.08 --> 4197.68] we'll start -[4197.68 --> 4198.78] seeing needs. -[4199.82 --> 4200.44] Something will -[4200.44 --> 4201.30] stir in us. -[4202.84 --> 4204.16] It may be a -[4204.16 --> 4205.38] holy discontent. -[4205.38 --> 4205.98] It may even -[4205.98 --> 4206.38] be some -[4206.38 --> 4206.76] anger. -[4207.68 --> 4207.98] You see -[4207.98 --> 4211.46] things that's -[4211.46 --> 4212.02] not right. -[4212.92 --> 4213.80] That can be a -[4213.80 --> 4214.22] nudge from -[4214.22 --> 4214.80] God, by the -[4214.80 --> 4215.00] way. -[4216.88 --> 4218.38] Because you're -[4218.38 --> 4219.02] seeing often -[4219.02 --> 4220.06] an injustice -[4220.06 --> 4221.12] or a hurt -[4221.12 --> 4222.84] that needs to -[4222.84 --> 4223.60] be justified -[4223.60 --> 4224.68] or healed. -[4226.72 --> 4227.54] We need to -[4227.54 --> 4228.14] bring such -[4228.14 --> 4228.74] matters to -[4228.74 --> 4229.12] God. -[4230.62 --> 4231.58] Invite Christ -[4231.58 --> 4232.14] into our -[4232.14 --> 4232.98] space, whatever -[4232.98 --> 4233.68] it is that's -[4233.68 --> 4234.60] troubling us. -[4234.60 --> 4235.66] so that we -[4235.66 --> 4236.06] don't just -[4236.06 --> 4237.40] take it on -[4237.40 --> 4238.10] ourselves. -[4239.62 --> 4240.30] And then be -[4240.30 --> 4241.60] prepared that -[4241.60 --> 4242.22] the one who -[4242.22 --> 4243.02] comforts us, -[4243.04 --> 4243.72] as I believe -[4243.72 --> 4244.24] Chris was -[4244.24 --> 4245.24] talking about -[4245.24 --> 4245.98] last week, -[4246.06 --> 4246.56] the one who -[4246.56 --> 4247.46] comforts us -[4247.46 --> 4248.28] and gives -[4248.28 --> 4249.22] rest is also -[4249.22 --> 4250.12] the one who -[4250.12 --> 4250.80] will then lead -[4250.80 --> 4251.72] us out of -[4251.72 --> 4252.62] our comfort -[4252.62 --> 4254.16] zone to -[4254.16 --> 4254.94] help others -[4254.94 --> 4255.78] in their -[4255.78 --> 4256.24] time of -[4256.24 --> 4256.52] need. -[4257.80 --> 4258.46] And when -[4258.46 --> 4259.18] we accept -[4259.18 --> 4259.90] a task -[4259.90 --> 4261.18] from Jesus, -[4262.50 --> 4263.56] it will be -[4263.56 --> 4264.26] something that -[4264.26 --> 4264.66] we will -[4264.66 --> 4265.12] wear, -[4265.52 --> 4265.92] but it -[4265.92 --> 4266.70] won't wear -[4266.70 --> 4267.24] us out. -[4268.50 --> 4269.12] We may -[4269.12 --> 4269.78] get tired, -[4270.24 --> 4270.76] it's okay, -[4271.20 --> 4271.58] there's a -[4271.58 --> 4273.46] good tiredness, -[4273.64 --> 4274.02] but not, -[4275.00 --> 4275.74] Jesus doesn't -[4275.74 --> 4276.22] want us to -[4276.22 --> 4276.64] have this -[4276.64 --> 4277.72] frustrating -[4277.72 --> 4279.00] weariness that -[4279.00 --> 4280.00] makes us want -[4280.00 --> 4281.18] to quit. -[4282.64 --> 4283.36] In Him, -[4283.42 --> 4283.82] we will be -[4283.82 --> 4284.52] at peace. -[4286.20 --> 4286.66] So let me -[4286.66 --> 4287.20] ask, -[4287.20 --> 4289.32] is what -[4289.32 --> 4290.14] you're carrying -[4290.14 --> 4291.00] right now -[4291.00 --> 4294.20] something that -[4294.20 --> 4295.32] you have -[4295.32 --> 4296.06] picked up -[4296.06 --> 4297.28] or that -[4297.28 --> 4297.84] the Lord -[4297.84 --> 4298.40] has given -[4298.40 --> 4299.14] to you? -[4300.50 --> 4301.46] His yoke. -[4303.50 --> 4304.48] It's not -[4304.48 --> 4305.16] always easy -[4305.16 --> 4305.72] to know. -[4307.10 --> 4307.62] It takes -[4307.62 --> 4308.42] practice, -[4308.54 --> 4308.90] really, -[4309.78 --> 4310.94] to know -[4310.94 --> 4311.58] whether or -[4311.58 --> 4312.64] not we -[4312.64 --> 4313.68] are responding -[4313.68 --> 4314.80] in the -[4314.80 --> 4315.42] moment to -[4315.42 --> 4316.00] the Spirit -[4316.00 --> 4316.70] of Jesus -[4316.70 --> 4318.84] or to -[4318.84 --> 4319.50] the power -[4319.50 --> 4319.84] of our -[4319.84 --> 4320.56] own flesh -[4320.56 --> 4321.14] that simply -[4321.14 --> 4321.90] wants to -[4321.90 --> 4322.62] do something. -[4324.62 --> 4325.38] So it's -[4325.38 --> 4326.02] helpful to -[4326.02 --> 4327.50] ask yourself -[4327.50 --> 4327.92] that. -[4329.26 --> 4330.56] And these -[4330.56 --> 4331.06] kinds of -[4331.06 --> 4331.70] questions may -[4331.70 --> 4332.56] help also to -[4332.56 --> 4332.96] know whether -[4332.96 --> 4333.66] it's the yoke -[4333.66 --> 4334.26] of the Lord. -[4335.76 --> 4336.30] Does this, -[4336.68 --> 4337.34] what I'm -[4337.34 --> 4338.56] being asked -[4338.56 --> 4339.12] to do or -[4339.12 --> 4339.58] doing, -[4339.94 --> 4340.42] does it -[4340.42 --> 4342.04] actually bring -[4342.04 --> 4342.56] me in -[4342.56 --> 4342.96] closer -[4342.96 --> 4343.76] relationship -[4343.76 --> 4344.26] to the -[4344.26 --> 4344.64] Lord? -[4346.04 --> 4346.82] Or more -[4346.82 --> 4347.20] distant? -[4348.54 --> 4349.28] Is it -[4349.28 --> 4349.80] benefiting -[4349.80 --> 4351.48] others and -[4351.48 --> 4352.20] that way -[4352.20 --> 4352.98] building up -[4352.98 --> 4353.52] the kingdom? -[4355.22 --> 4356.06] Is it in -[4356.06 --> 4356.44] line with -[4356.44 --> 4356.94] the Scriptures? -[4357.74 --> 4358.26] If we are -[4358.26 --> 4358.96] not students -[4358.96 --> 4359.36] of the -[4359.36 --> 4359.96] Scriptures and -[4359.96 --> 4360.48] reading it -[4360.48 --> 4360.98] faithfully, -[4361.10 --> 4361.54] it's often -[4361.54 --> 4362.18] hard to know -[4362.18 --> 4362.76] what's right. -[4363.84 --> 4364.56] Does it -[4364.56 --> 4365.22] fit with -[4365.22 --> 4365.90] who God -[4365.90 --> 4367.56] has molded -[4367.56 --> 4368.30] me to be? -[4369.24 --> 4369.96] And what -[4369.96 --> 4370.30] am I -[4370.30 --> 4370.88] trusted -[4370.88 --> 4371.48] friends -[4371.48 --> 4373.14] think of -[4373.14 --> 4373.50] what I'm -[4373.50 --> 4374.14] doing or -[4374.14 --> 4374.66] about to -[4374.66 --> 4374.92] do? -[4376.00 --> 4376.40] Helpful -[4376.40 --> 4376.98] questions. -[4378.88 --> 4379.58] But more -[4379.58 --> 4380.08] importantly, -[4380.24 --> 4380.64] let's hear -[4380.64 --> 4381.44] this invitation -[4381.44 --> 4382.10] of Christ -[4382.10 --> 4382.52] again, -[4382.64 --> 4382.90] and I -[4382.90 --> 4383.32] end with -[4383.32 --> 4383.64] this. -[4384.00 --> 4384.46] It's from -[4384.46 --> 4385.08] the message. -[4386.66 --> 4387.06] Are you -[4387.06 --> 4387.40] tired? -[4389.58 --> 4390.14] Worn -[4390.14 --> 4390.56] out? -[4391.06 --> 4391.50] Perhaps -[4391.50 --> 4392.34] burned -[4392.34 --> 4392.78] out on -[4392.78 --> 4393.22] religion? -[4395.10 --> 4395.50] Jesus -[4395.50 --> 4395.92] says, -[4396.22 --> 4396.46] come to -[4396.46 --> 4396.78] me, -[4397.12 --> 4397.82] get away -[4397.82 --> 4398.38] with me, -[4398.48 --> 4398.80] and you'll -[4398.80 --> 4399.52] recover your -[4399.52 --> 4399.98] life. -[4400.80 --> 4401.22] I'll -[4401.22 --> 4401.64] show you -[4401.64 --> 4402.02] how to -[4402.02 --> 4402.92] take a -[4402.92 --> 4403.48] real -[4403.48 --> 4404.66] rest. -[4405.54 --> 4405.84] Walk -[4405.84 --> 4406.42] with me -[4406.42 --> 4407.02] and work -[4407.02 --> 4407.54] with me. -[4407.98 --> 4408.34] Watch -[4408.34 --> 4409.34] how I -[4409.34 --> 4409.84] do it. -[4410.56 --> 4410.92] Learn -[4410.92 --> 4411.28] the -[4411.28 --> 4412.64] unforced -[4412.64 --> 4413.16] rhythms -[4413.16 --> 4414.24] of grace. -[4415.04 --> 4415.60] I won't -[4415.60 --> 4416.54] lay anything -[4416.54 --> 4417.56] heavy or -[4417.56 --> 4418.14] ill-fitting -[4418.14 --> 4419.04] on you. -[4420.12 --> 4420.42] Keep -[4420.42 --> 4420.92] company -[4420.92 --> 4421.62] with me -[4421.62 --> 4422.82] and you'll -[4422.82 --> 4423.62] learn to -[4423.62 --> 4424.50] live freely -[4424.50 --> 4426.04] and lightly. -[4426.04 --> 4427.80] let's -[4427.80 --> 4428.10] pray. -[4429.22 --> 4429.60] Lord -[4429.60 --> 4429.94] Jesus, -[4430.12 --> 4430.72] help us -[4430.72 --> 4431.62] to have -[4431.62 --> 4432.38] ears for -[4432.38 --> 4432.78] what you -[4432.78 --> 4433.46] are saying -[4433.46 --> 4434.12] to us -[4434.12 --> 4435.34] through your -[4435.34 --> 4436.40] Holy Spirit. -[4437.66 --> 4437.96] In our -[4437.96 --> 4438.78] pride and -[4438.78 --> 4440.08] self-determination, -[4440.28 --> 4440.82] we all too -[4440.82 --> 4442.04] often will -[4442.04 --> 4442.74] avoid you -[4442.74 --> 4443.88] because we've -[4443.88 --> 4444.64] been impressed -[4444.64 --> 4446.04] by the offerings -[4446.04 --> 4446.88] of our world -[4446.88 --> 4447.64] and pursued -[4447.64 --> 4448.98] our own -[4448.98 --> 4449.88] plans. -[4450.78 --> 4451.40] Help us, -[4451.40 --> 4451.80] Jesus, -[4452.10 --> 4452.50] to be -[4452.50 --> 4453.16] humble -[4453.16 --> 4453.66] enough -[4453.66 --> 4455.02] to see -[4455.02 --> 4455.70] your heart -[4455.70 --> 4457.00] and quiet -[4457.00 --> 4457.48] enough -[4457.48 --> 4458.74] to hear -[4458.74 --> 4459.46] your voice -[4459.46 --> 4460.92] and give -[4460.92 --> 4461.38] us a -[4461.38 --> 4462.22] childlike -[4462.22 --> 4462.96] willingness -[4462.96 --> 4464.66] and adult -[4464.66 --> 4465.86] like courage -[4465.86 --> 4466.72] to do -[4466.72 --> 4467.80] what you -[4467.80 --> 4468.78] invite us -[4468.78 --> 4469.74] to do. -[4470.76 --> 4471.38] And as -[4471.38 --> 4472.12] our restless -[4472.12 --> 4472.84] spirits -[4472.84 --> 4473.54] more and -[4473.54 --> 4474.98] more find -[4474.98 --> 4476.02] their rest -[4476.02 --> 4476.76] in you, -[4477.50 --> 4478.14] liberate -[4478.14 --> 4479.24] us to -[4479.24 --> 4479.88] serve you -[4479.88 --> 4480.86] and others, -[4481.40 --> 4481.80] in the -[4481.80 --> 4482.26] power -[4482.26 --> 4483.22] of your -[4483.22 --> 4483.70] love, -[4484.12 --> 4484.52] joy, -[4484.76 --> 4485.92] and peace. -[4486.38 --> 4486.74] And it's -[4486.74 --> 4487.04] in your -[4487.04 --> 4487.40] name, -[4487.60 --> 4488.22] Lord Jesus, -[4488.44 --> 4489.16] your powerful -[4489.16 --> 4489.60] name, -[4489.98 --> 4490.52] we ask -[4490.52 --> 4490.94] this. -[4491.52 --> 4491.80] Amen. -[4497.08 --> 4498.02] In Christ -[4498.02 --> 4498.44] alone, -[4499.48 --> 4500.26] our hope -[4500.26 --> 4500.76] is found -[4500.76 --> 4501.12] in our -[4501.12 --> 4501.44] rest. -[4501.70 --> 4501.98] Let's -[4501.98 --> 4502.52] rise as -[4502.52 --> 4502.94] we sing. -[4511.40 --> 4520.52] Christ -[4520.52 --> 4521.28] alone, -[4521.28 --> 4523.22] my hope -[4523.22 --> 4525.02] is found, -[4525.02 --> 4526.48] He is my -[4526.48 --> 4526.90] light, -[4527.00 --> 4528.66] my strength, -[4528.80 --> 4530.08] my soul, -[4530.60 --> 4530.98] His -[4530.98 --> 4531.64] border -[4531.64 --> 4532.84] stone, -[4533.38 --> 4534.34] His solid -[4534.34 --> 4535.56] crown, -[4535.56 --> 4536.88] firm -[4536.88 --> 4537.34] through the -[4537.34 --> 4537.78] tears -[4537.78 --> 4538.20] and -[4538.20 --> 4539.04] stride -[4539.04 --> 4539.92] and -[4539.92 --> 4540.88] storm, -[4541.38 --> 4541.76] what -[4541.76 --> 4542.28] heights -[4542.28 --> 4544.04] of love, -[4544.16 --> 4545.02] what depths -[4545.02 --> 4546.38] of peace, -[4546.74 --> 4547.78] when fears -[4547.78 --> 4549.46] are still -[4549.46 --> 4550.58] with striving -[4550.58 --> 4551.92] seas, -[4552.32 --> 4552.66] my -[4552.66 --> 4554.10] comforter, -[4554.90 --> 4555.36] my -[4555.36 --> 4556.32] all in -[4556.32 --> 4557.60] all, -[4558.06 --> 4558.98] here in the -[4558.98 --> 4559.86] love of -[4559.86 --> 4561.18] Christ -[4561.18 --> 4563.08] thou stand. -[4573.08 --> 4574.66] In Christ -[4574.66 --> 4575.80] alone, -[4576.30 --> 4577.08] new to -[4577.08 --> 4577.64] God's -[4577.64 --> 4578.90] flesh, -[4579.38 --> 4580.26] fullness of -[4580.26 --> 4581.12] God in -[4581.12 --> 4582.56] helpless -[4582.56 --> 4583.76] name, -[4584.20 --> 4584.58] His -[4584.58 --> 4585.58] spirit of -[4585.58 --> 4587.24] love and -[4587.24 --> 4588.18] righteousness, -[4589.70 --> 4590.50] stormed -[4590.50 --> 4590.72] the -[4590.72 --> 4591.44] ones He -[4591.44 --> 4593.20] came to -[4593.20 --> 4594.20] save. -[4594.58 --> 4595.54] Till on -[4595.54 --> 4597.24] that cross -[4597.24 --> 4598.22] where Jesus -[4598.22 --> 4599.42] died, -[4599.84 --> 4600.74] the wrath -[4600.74 --> 4602.46] of God -[4602.46 --> 4604.24] was satisfied, -[4604.98 --> 4606.32] for every -[4606.32 --> 4608.14] sin on -[4608.14 --> 4609.00] Him was -[4609.00 --> 4610.26] laid, -[4610.66 --> 4611.54] here in -[4611.54 --> 4612.12] the death -[4612.12 --> 4613.86] of Christ -[4613.86 --> 4615.14] thou stand. -[4615.14 --> 4616.14] Amen. -[4620.50 --> 4621.24] His -[4621.24 --> 4629.72] body -[4629.72 --> 4631.32] laid, -[4631.32 --> 4632.48] light of -[4632.48 --> 4633.12] the world -[4633.12 --> 4635.04] of darkness -[4635.04 --> 4636.32] slain, -[4636.76 --> 4637.74] and there -[4637.74 --> 4637.94] is -[4637.94 --> 4638.82] become -[4638.82 --> 4639.88] His -[4639.88 --> 4640.76] glorious -[4640.76 --> 4642.14] flame, -[4642.54 --> 4643.20] up from -[4643.20 --> 4643.82] the grave -[4643.82 --> 4644.28] He -[4644.28 --> 4645.60] rose -[4645.60 --> 4646.90] again, -[4646.90 --> 4648.22] and as -[4648.22 --> 4648.54] He -[4648.54 --> 4649.94] stands -[4649.94 --> 4650.38] in -[4650.38 --> 4651.50] victory, -[4652.50 --> 4652.94] His -[4652.94 --> 4653.40] prayers -[4653.40 --> 4653.80] has -[4653.80 --> 4655.06] lost -[4655.06 --> 4655.52] its -[4655.52 --> 4655.94] grip -[4655.94 --> 4656.40] on -[4656.40 --> 4657.18] me, -[4657.50 --> 4658.72] for I -[4658.72 --> 4659.02] am -[4659.02 --> 4659.76] His -[4659.76 --> 4661.12] and He -[4661.12 --> 4661.60] is -[4661.60 --> 4662.72] mine, -[4663.24 --> 4663.70] locked -[4663.70 --> 4664.14] with a -[4664.14 --> 4664.64] precious -[4664.64 --> 4666.70] blood of -[4666.70 --> 4667.48] crown. -[4667.48 --> 4686.34] God -[4686.34 --> 4687.12] His -[4687.12 --> 4688.00] faith -[4688.00 --> 4688.82] through -[4688.82 --> 4689.40] labor -[4689.40 --> 4690.92] strife -[4690.92 --> 4691.56] to -[4691.56 --> 4692.98] request -[4692.98 --> 4693.66] praise -[4694.30 --> 4694.92] to -[4694.92 --> 4695.22] the -[4695.22 --> 4697.86] It's my destiny. -[4698.92 --> 4701.74] No power of hell. -[4701.82 --> 4703.86] No scheme of man. -[4704.32 --> 4709.04] Can ever walk me from his hand. -[4709.04 --> 4714.58] Till he returns on those he want. -[4715.04 --> 4719.34] Here in the power of Christ thou stand. -[4719.72 --> 4722.32] No power of hell. -[4722.42 --> 4724.48] No scheme of man. -[4724.48 --> 4729.88] Can ever pluck me from his hand -[4729.88 --> 4735.70] Till he returns or calls me home -[4735.70 --> 4741.12] Here in the power of Christ I'll stand -[4741.12 --> 4756.38] As you go on your way into this week, -[4756.38 --> 4759.32] whatever it may bring for you, -[4761.10 --> 4764.04] try not make life too complicated. -[4765.56 --> 4770.36] Keep it as simple as Christ intended it to be. -[4771.86 --> 4774.74] And when you're wondering about who you are -[4774.74 --> 4775.82] or what you want to do, -[4776.42 --> 4778.00] look into the face of Jesus -[4778.00 --> 4783.92] and realize he really is for you and for me. -[4784.48 --> 4787.56] And his desire is to bless you. -[4788.50 --> 4792.08] So go and the Lord bless you and keep you. -[4792.70 --> 4794.58] The Lord make his face shine upon you -[4794.58 --> 4795.88] and be gracious to you. -[4796.28 --> 4798.62] The Lord turn his face right in your direction -[4798.62 --> 4802.08] and give you his power now and always, -[4802.24 --> 4803.70] to which we God's people say, -[4804.32 --> 4804.66] Amen. -[4804.66 --> 4828.44] You're the Lion of Judah, the Lamb who was slain. -[4828.44 --> 4832.44] You descended to heaven and evermore away. -[4832.44 --> 4836.78] At the end of the age when the earth will be declared, -[4837.24 --> 4840.36] gather all nations before you. -[4841.22 --> 4848.14] And the eyes of all men may be near of the Lamb who was crucified. -[4849.74 --> 4855.14] With wisdom and mercy and justice will reign at the cross. -[4855.14 --> 4857.14] And the earth will be declared, -[4857.14 --> 4860.34] And the angels will cry, -[4860.34 --> 4868.54] Hail the Lamb who was slain for the world, -[4868.54 --> 4872.26] Rolling by. -[4872.26 --> 4877.46] And the earth will be declared, -[4877.46 --> 4881.46] You shall reign, -[4881.46 --> 4887.54] And the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords. -[4887.54 --> 4899.84] There's a shield in our hand and a sword at our side, -[4899.84 --> 4904.14] There's a fire in our spirits that cannot be denied, -[4904.14 --> 4908.38] Because the Father that stole us for these you will rise, -[4908.38 --> 4911.98] For the nations to gather before you. -[4912.92 --> 4915.34] And the ears of all men may be dear, -[4915.34 --> 4920.14] Hear of the Lamb who was crucified, -[4921.14 --> 4923.44] Their descendants who held it, -[4923.52 --> 4928.14] But made like the rain and his song's line. -[4928.14 --> 4931.62] And the angels will cry, -[4931.62 --> 4939.84] Hail the Lamb who was slain for the world, -[4939.84 --> 4943.62] Ruling by. -[4945.30 --> 4948.04] And the earth will reply, -[4948.72 --> 4951.80] You shall reign, -[4951.80 --> 4981.78] You shall reign, -[4981.80 --> 4987.58] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords. -[4987.58 --> 4993.08] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords. -[4993.08 --> 4999.08] You shall reign, -[4999.82 --> 5000.02] Unto the King of all kings and the Lord of all that. -[5000.16 --> 5001.78] Imagine the King of all kings. -[5001.78 --> 5002.32] The King of all kings and the Lord of all kings and consolations. -[5002.32 --> 5002.74] You shall reign UCL of all kings and conv Awesome King of all kings and millennia. -[5002.74 --> 5005.50] dro Walken David by. -[5005.50 --> 5007.36] And the King of all kings and vice College trust. -[5007.36 --> 5008.46] Please bear' social Kerr on whom kings and gentlemen all rights and Methodists. -[5008.46 --> 5009.30] Peaceful people take their regards and Dis går due to rights. -[5009.30 --> 5011.40] It you shall reignperform. -[5011.76 --> 5013.92] In the ordinary Kings and viewers of all kings andcca today. -[5014.00 --> 5017.10] To be turned over in Advent America and Angelica -[5017.10 --> 5022.18] Comeback to the people of the Blessed of all kings and — -[5022.18 --> 5052.16] Thank you. -[5052.18 --> 5073.68] Thank you. -[5082.18 --> 5112.16] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 8, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 8, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 678d080b25964bd57035a5cb1c96aa8dd8075fba..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 8, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,122 +0,0 @@ -• Praise and worship -• God's favor and presence -• His protection and peace -• Redemption through His grace -• Joy and celebration in praising Him -• Shouting out praise and thanks to God -• Introduction to the service -• Welcome and invitation to participate in communion -• Cancellation of youth Bible study for Thanksgiving weekend -• Announcements: - + Pastor Kevin's announcement - + Availability of forms for youth ministry - + Starting of new youth program in 2020 - + Community art project (Gather, Grow, Go, Here) -• Upcoming event: Revival Hymns on October 29 at 6pm -• Invitation to greet God and welcome Him into worship -• Reading of Psalm 66:1-5, 8-9, 16-17, 19-20 -• Singing of hymns including "Great is Thy Faithfulness" -• Recitation of scripture verses with emphasis on God's faithfulness -• Thanksgiving and praise for God's love and faithfulness -• The exalted love of God above the heavens -• The glory of God over all the earth -• A liturgy of thanksgiving through song and prayer -• God's greatness, wisdom, power, and love -• Invitation to join in a thanksgiving service -• Responsive liturgy led by the worship team -• Celebration of Thanksgiving feast with worship -• Reflection on the significance of feasting and celebration as acts of war against evil and death -• Thanksgiving prayer and hymns -• The importance of gratitude -• Salvation through Jesus Christ -• Overcoming struggles and difficulties -• Giving thanks for blessings received -• Financial support for a local food bank -• Community involvement and service -• Food Bank and kindness -• Thanking God for blessings -• Children's worship on the theme of peace -• Sharing personal thanks and reflections -• Family prayer and gratitude to God -• Thanking God for abundance and blessings -• Expressing gratitude for sun, rains, and land flourishing -• Appreciating God's saving grace through Jesus Christ -• Praying for guidance, wisdom, and healing for individuals -• Seeking comfort and peace in times of trouble -• Interceding for those struggling with health issues, relationships, and grief -• Requesting protection, blessing, and guidance for the congregation and church ministries -• Asking for peace and an end to war and strife -• Praying for growth in love, truth, righteousness, and faith -• Introduction and welcome to the service -• Discussion of the speaker's absence last week at church -• Personal gratitude for the congregation and community -• Reading from Luke 17:11-19, a story about Jesus healing ten men with leprosy -• Reflection on faith and thankfulness in daily life -• Recycling of things, including food and tradition -• Importance of alone time on Thanksgiving -• Cultural practice of Thanksgiving in North America -• Distinction between traditional Thanksgiving values and modern practices -• Reading from verse 15 as a focus for the morning service -• The text discusses how giving thanks is a distinctive characteristic of true Christians. -• The passage in question is about a man who was healed by Jesus and praised God loudly, thanking him at his feet. -• A video shared with the speaker challenges commonly held beliefs among Christians on whether Thanksgiving is distinctly Christian or not. -• The video shows a person walking up to professing Christians and asking them to show where the Bible says Jesus is God. -• Jesus is often considered God, but it's not explicitly stated in all accounts -• The man who returned to praise God was unique among those healed by Jesus -• The Greek word "kathorizo" means cleansing or healing, particularly for lepers -• Lepers were considered unclean under the Levitical law and thus kept at a distance from others -• The origin of the word "catharsis" and its evolution in meaning -• Difference between physical purging and emotional release -• Jesus' healing power and emotional response to his touch -• Purpose of the gospel: providing peace with God, not just peace of mind -• Connection between righteousness, purity from sin, and peace with God -• The importance of understanding the true meaning and purpose of Christianity -• The gospel is about purity before God, not just physical or emotional comfort -• Jesus' sacrifice purifies us from sin and unrighteousness -• Many people in modern churches focus on feeling good, secure, or happy rather than purity with God -• Isaiah 1:18-19 prophesies that our sins can be washed away like scarlet become white as snow -• The functional purpose of religion is to make people better and soothe consciences, not true Christianity -• The gospel is about doing what one cannot do but needs to do -• Jesus lived the life and died the death that humanity deserves, serving as a perfect sacrifice for atonement -• Atonement means Jesus' death in our place to restore relationship with God broken by sin -• Sin's effects are minimized in modern culture, while physical and emotional healing are prioritized over reconciliation with God -• The gospel looks deeper than temporary solutions like physical or emotional healing, instead emphasizing restoration of relationship with God through faith -• The concept of healing through faith is discussed -• The possibility that the other nine individuals were also healed, but didn't return to praise Jesus -• The idea that God knows a person's faithfulness beforehand and responds accordingly -• The translation of the Greek word "sozo" as meaning "to save" rather than just "heal" -• Examples from Acts 4:12 and Luke 7:50 where salvation is emphasized over physical healing. -• The gospel is about salvation and faith, not just physical healing or emotional response -• One man's experience of being healed and praising God shows the greater healing and purification available through Jesus -• Giving thanks to God in worship is a distinctive characteristic of true Christians -• In a post-Christian age, Christians are often identified and treated with suspicion and are seen as being on the wrong side of history due to past abuses and scandals -• A survey was conducted to gather opinions from people about what they think of Christians today -• Initial expectations vs actual responses to questions about Christianity -• Positive reactions to the word "church" -• Neutral or apathetic responses when asked about Christianity and its history in Canada -• Split opinions on whether Christians are a positive force for good in the world -• Reflections on the implications of people's lack of strong emotions or opinions about Christianity -• Comparisons between polite apathy towards Christianity and the reactions of those healed by Jesus in the Bible -• The importance of having a "polite attitude" as Christians -• A quote from the epistle to Dionysus referencing Christians being like the soul to the body, and what this means for the city -• Thanksgiving as a battle for the soul of the church -• Expressing gratitude to God and being known as the people of Thanksgiving -• The coming together at the table in liturgy and prayer, including the Lord's Supper -• Giving thanks for God's blessings, Jesus Christ, and His sacrifice -• Remembrance of Christ's death and resurrection in the Eucharist -• Invitation to come to the communion table regardless of faith level or frequency of participation -• Instructions for participating in the Eucharist -• Invitation for worship volunteers and ushers to come forward -• Opportunity for prayer with individuals before or during communion -• Gratitude expressed for those serving and participating -• Praise and worship -• The cross and sacrifice of Christ -• Jesus' reign and victory -• Redemption and salvation through Jesus -• Prayer and thanksgiving to God -• Benediction and final song -• Sending out to worship God -• Praying for a tender heartedness to touch the world with God's grace -• Acknowledging God's presence and protection in all aspects of life -• Praise and worship through song (specifically, the Doxology) -• Expressions of gratitude and thanksgiving \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 8, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 8, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 43caf69962c9d8185e38129bbcee7876675df9fd..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 8, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2203 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 10.82] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[11.72 --> 18.06] Make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[18.06 --> 29.44] The Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace. -[30.00 --> 37.10] You can praise Him beside Him and be grateful to you and give you peace W childcare. -[37.10 --> 40.86] To receive re blankets from Dear God. -[40.86 --> 51.34] To receive lunch from Btw thatполне is full of activities togin the Lord. -[51.34 --> 59.28] Amen, amen, amen. -[62.28 --> 69.12] Lord bless you and keep you. -[70.02 --> 73.50] Make his face shine upon you. -[73.50 --> 76.50] Be gracious to you. -[76.50 --> 83.04] Lord turn his face toward you. -[83.74 --> 88.28] And give you peace. -[89.94 --> 100.42] Amen, amen, amen. -[100.42 --> 103.46] We sing, we sing. -[103.46 --> 114.10] Amen, amen, amen. -[114.10 --> 116.74] Amen, amen. -[116.74 --> 130.42] Amen, amen. -[130.42 --> 133.32] May his favor be a pardon -[133.32 --> 136.76] And a thousand generations -[136.76 --> 140.26] And your family and your children -[140.26 --> 143.66] And their children and their children -[143.66 --> 147.34] May his favor be upon you -[147.34 --> 150.44] And a thousand generations -[150.44 --> 154.00] And your family and your children -[154.00 --> 157.38] And their children and their children -[157.38 --> 161.08] May his presence go before you -[161.08 --> 162.72] And behind you -[162.72 --> 164.52] And beside you -[164.52 --> 164.58] And beside you -[164.58 --> 166.28] All around you -[166.28 --> 168.02] And within you -[168.02 --> 169.72] He is with you -[169.72 --> 171.56] He is with you -[171.56 --> 174.52] In the morning and evening -[174.52 --> 176.22] And you're coming -[176.22 --> 177.92] And you're coming -[177.92 --> 179.94] And you're weeping -[179.94 --> 181.70] And rejoicing -[181.70 --> 183.30] He is for you -[183.30 --> 196.74] He is for you -[196.74 --> 198.74] Amen, amen, amen, amen -[198.74 --> 210.16] Amen, amen, amen -[210.16 --> 217.64] Amen, amen, amen -[217.64 --> 224.54] Amen, amen, amen -[224.54 --> 226.48] Amen, amen, amen -[226.48 --> 228.82] May his presence go before you -[228.82 --> 230.82] And behind you -[230.82 --> 231.60] And behind you -[231.60 --> 233.06] And beside you -[233.06 --> 234.82] All around you -[234.82 --> 235.86] And within you -[235.86 --> 252.86] He's with you, He's with you in the morning, in the evening, and you're calling, and you're dying, and you're leaving, and you're rejoicing, He's for you. -[265.86 --> 295.84] He's going to be here, and you're going to be here. -[295.84 --> 300.24] We worship the God who evermore will be. -[301.26 --> 306.96] He opened the prison door, He parted the raging sea. -[307.52 --> 311.06] My God, He holds the victory. -[313.48 --> 316.24] Let's join the house of the Lord. -[316.54 --> 319.06] Let's join the house of the Lord today. -[320.00 --> 321.60] And we won't be quiet. -[322.60 --> 324.64] We shout out your praise. -[324.64 --> 327.44] Let's join the house of the Lord. -[327.82 --> 330.96] Our God is surely in this place. -[331.18 --> 332.80] And we won't be quiet. -[334.00 --> 336.08] We shout out your praise. -[337.52 --> 338.64] Oh, oh, oh. -[339.30 --> 341.84] We shout out your praise. -[341.84 --> 348.90] We sing to the God who heals. -[348.90 --> 351.72] We sing to the God who saves. -[351.72 --> 356.08] We sing to the God who always makes a way. -[356.08 --> 358.28] Cause He holds up on that cross. -[358.28 --> 360.06] Cause He holds up on that cross. -[360.06 --> 362.84] Then He rose up from that grave. -[362.84 --> 364.84] My God is still rolling stone. -[364.84 --> 367.84] My God is still rolling stones away. -[367.84 --> 372.12] ThyLE, he means to him. -[372.12 --> 373.74] tiol Lucy Hyistenia -[374.30 --> 374.82] McFlde is still rolling territory. -[374.88 --> 375.24] If you do, He eliminements natale and vi LA -[375.24 --> 377.14] Thтра, we sing to the God who makes a way. -[377.14 --> 377.94] We sing to the God who erase les dés巴at. -[377.94 --> 382.62] We Hotards to the God who saves y morwali for. -[382.86 --> 383.00] We're not readable. -[383.00 --> 385.84] We sing to the God who saves y mor valor of food. -[385.84 --> 415.82] We are forgiven, accepted, redeemed by His grace. -[415.84 --> 445.82] Let the house of the Lord sing praise. -[445.84 --> 475.82] Let the house of the Lord sing praise. -[475.82 --> 479.40] There is joy, there is joy -[479.40 --> 482.02] Shurning in this flame -[482.02 --> 484.26] If we won't be crying -[484.26 --> 487.02] Shout out your parade -[487.02 --> 492.88] We shout out your parade -[492.88 --> 495.42] There is joy in this hour -[495.42 --> 497.72] There is joy in this hour today -[497.72 --> 503.50] We shout out your parade -[503.50 --> 509.02] We shout out your parade -[509.02 --> 517.08] We shout out your parade -[517.08 --> 522.60] We shout out your parade -[522.60 --> 526.60] We shout out your parade -[526.60 --> 538.12] We shout out your parade -[538.12 --> 542.92] We shout out your parade -[542.92 --> 546.44] And my heart digs a little bit deeper -[546.44 --> 552.44] And my faith just ain't a little bit weaker -[552.44 --> 557.08] Where could I ride to? -[557.08 --> 566.60] Good morning everyone -[566.60 --> 571.10] Welcome to church -[571.10 --> 574.86] Special welcome if you are visiting with us this morning -[574.86 --> 576.60] For Thanksgiving weekend -[576.60 --> 579.56] Let me just say happy Thanksgiving to you -[579.56 --> 581.36] My name is Chris -[581.36 --> 583.24] I'm one of the pastors here -[583.24 --> 584.74] And it's my privilege -[584.74 --> 586.80] Along with me and others on stage -[586.80 --> 591.28] To lead in our worship together this morning -[591.28 --> 593.14] As you can see today -[593.14 --> 595.36] We will come to the Lord's table -[595.36 --> 598.04] We'll be in invitation later in our service -[598.04 --> 598.62] To join -[598.62 --> 600.78] If you're participating online -[600.78 --> 602.80] I'd like you to take a moment -[602.80 --> 605.24] And get some stuff ready for that -[605.24 --> 608.42] Before we begin our worship together -[608.42 --> 609.72] We have a couple announcements -[609.72 --> 611.74] So I'm going to invite Pastor Kevin to come up -[611.74 --> 613.30] He has one for you -[613.30 --> 615.70] And as he's making his way up -[615.70 --> 617.04] I will just say that -[617.04 --> 618.94] To you young adults -[618.94 --> 621.58] Who are participating in the Bible study -[621.58 --> 622.68] That Josh is leading -[622.68 --> 624.96] That is cancelled for today -[624.96 --> 627.94] Probably because it's Thanksgiving weekend -[627.94 --> 629.78] And your friends and friends -[629.78 --> 631.12] Want to gather you up for that -[631.12 --> 632.40] But that's cancelled for today -[632.40 --> 634.50] And we'll resume on schedule -[634.50 --> 636.46] That you've been here -[636.46 --> 640.16] Good morning everyone -[640.16 --> 641.60] Here it's going to come on -[641.60 --> 642.50] I can tell -[642.50 --> 643.42] We're running down -[643.42 --> 643.98] The microphone -[643.98 --> 646.08] There it is -[646.08 --> 647.24] Good morning everyone -[647.24 --> 649.44] Brief, brief announcement -[649.44 --> 649.92] Parents -[649.92 --> 651.34] If you were unable to attend -[651.34 --> 652.78] The parents meeting this past week -[652.78 --> 653.62] I'm going to be available -[653.62 --> 654.90] In the multi-purpose room -[654.90 --> 656.04] After the service -[656.04 --> 657.66] To answer any questions -[657.66 --> 658.78] You've got about the youth ministry -[658.78 --> 660.44] But also from my perspective -[660.44 --> 662.92] To receive any paperwork -[662.92 --> 663.66] I need from you -[663.66 --> 666.40] So I will have those forms available for you -[666.40 --> 667.20] In the multi-purpose room -[667.20 --> 667.90] If you don't have them -[667.90 --> 669.08] Or if you have them on you -[669.08 --> 669.86] You can just give them in -[669.86 --> 671.00] But I will be in that room -[671.00 --> 671.80] After the service -[671.80 --> 672.88] For a little bit -[672.88 --> 674.58] So please come and see me there -[674.58 --> 675.52] And youth -[675.52 --> 676.60] We are going to start -[676.60 --> 678.92] With our first 2020 next week -[678.92 --> 680.12] So youth is going to start -[680.12 --> 681.50] Rolling next week with 2020 -[681.50 --> 683.24] I'm very excited for that -[683.24 --> 684.74] And I look forward to seeing you all there -[684.74 --> 685.30] Thank you -[685.30 --> 691.58] As we continue with a couple of announcements -[691.58 --> 693.42] Just a reminder -[693.42 --> 696.06] That we are working on -[696.06 --> 698.80] The community art project right now -[698.80 --> 700.80] The liturgical arts team -[700.80 --> 702.32] Is working on something -[702.32 --> 705.26] We're calling Gather, Grow, Go, Here -[705.26 --> 707.50] And so we're asking for your photos -[707.50 --> 710.42] Please submit those to the office -[710.42 --> 711.44] You can email them -[711.44 --> 714.40] To communications at LICRC.ca -[714.40 --> 715.72] Or you can text myself -[715.72 --> 716.60] Or pass my credit -[716.60 --> 719.12] And we'll make sure that it gets to the right place -[719.12 --> 721.76] And then we will put that project together -[721.76 --> 725.02] As a reminder of what we do here -[725.02 --> 726.66] And what we are called to do -[726.66 --> 728.38] As we go from here together -[728.38 --> 734.04] Lastly, I just want to offer to you -[734.04 --> 735.84] Save the date -[735.84 --> 738.40] And so recently we hosted -[738.40 --> 741.42] A new song worship concert here -[741.42 --> 746.72] On Sunday evening of September 24 at 6pm -[746.72 --> 749.16] We're going to do something like that again -[749.16 --> 750.54] At the end of October -[750.54 --> 753.68] And so on October 29 at 6pm -[753.68 --> 756.96] We're hosting another worship event here -[756.96 --> 759.06] That we're calling Revival Hymns -[759.06 --> 761.14] And that's all I'm going to say for right now -[761.14 --> 762.56] But mark your calendar -[762.56 --> 765.78] For October 29 at 6pm -[765.78 --> 767.98] And we can gather here for worship -[767.98 --> 770.02] I'm going to invite you to stand -[770.02 --> 772.00] And we can be called together -[772.00 --> 773.44] By our God -[773.44 --> 775.66] And met by Him in this place -[775.66 --> 779.10] We are met by God -[779.10 --> 780.54] And we will receive His greeting -[780.54 --> 782.00] After receiving His greeting -[782.00 --> 783.06] I'm going to invite you to turn -[783.06 --> 784.20] To those around you -[784.20 --> 785.54] And to welcome Him -[785.54 --> 786.62] Into worship -[786.62 --> 787.32] And maybe even say -[787.32 --> 788.14] Happy Thanksgiving -[788.14 --> 790.28] As we begin our time together -[790.28 --> 792.18] Receive the greeting of God -[792.18 --> 794.66] Grace -[794.66 --> 796.14] Mercy -[796.14 --> 797.66] And peace to you -[797.66 --> 798.88] From God our Father -[798.88 --> 800.08] From the Lord Jesus Christ -[800.08 --> 800.62] His Son -[800.62 --> 801.64] And our Savior -[801.64 --> 803.38] Through the presence and power -[803.38 --> 804.74] Of the Holy Spirit -[804.74 --> 806.28] Amen -[806.28 --> 807.88] God bless you -[808.22 --> 808.28] Amen -[808.44 --> 809.86] God bless you -[810.22 --> 811.38] God bless you -[811.38 --> 811.52] And they will thank you -[811.52 --> 812.46] For you -[812.46 --> 813.42] Amen -[813.42 --> 813.76] Amen -[813.76 --> 815.34] Well -[815.34 --> 815.56] Amen -[815.58 --> 815.64] Amen -[815.64 --> 845.62] Thank you. -[845.64 --> 849.40] I love to hear the joy and all the discussion. -[850.46 --> 856.18] It's beautiful to hear your voices and to join together in worship this morning. -[856.68 --> 860.56] Our call to worship comes from Psalm 66. -[862.28 --> 865.22] Shout with joy to the Lord, all the earth. -[865.66 --> 867.70] Sing the glory of his name. -[868.06 --> 869.64] Make his praise glorious. -[869.96 --> 872.44] Say to God, how awesome are your deeds. -[872.44 --> 876.46] So great is your power that your enemies cringe before you. -[876.94 --> 878.78] All the earth bows down to you. -[878.88 --> 880.30] They sing praises to you. -[880.60 --> 882.26] They sing praise to your name. -[882.66 --> 884.82] Come and see what God has done. -[885.24 --> 888.16] How awesome his works in man's behalf. -[888.84 --> 891.20] He turned the sea into dry land. -[891.58 --> 893.58] They passed through the waters on foot. -[894.14 --> 896.12] Come, let us rejoice in him. -[896.90 --> 899.54] He rules forever by his power. -[899.54 --> 901.84] His eyes watch the nations. -[902.54 --> 905.26] Let not the rebellious rise up against him. -[906.46 --> 910.02] Sing praises to the Lord with thanksgiving in your hearts. -[911.06 --> 914.06] Join us together as we sing, Great is Thy Faithfulness. -[914.06 --> 916.80] Amen. -[917.02 --> 917.80] Amen. -[917.80 --> 920.90] For our kingdom we sing, Power is holy and omega by his name. -[920.98 --> 922.42] Amen. -[922.42 --> 922.66] Amen. -[922.78 --> 923.46] Amen. -[923.46 --> 923.98] Amen. -[924.12 --> 924.14] Amen. -[924.14 --> 924.30] Amen. -[924.30 --> 924.68] Amen. -[924.72 --> 925.46] Amen. -[925.46 --> 925.84] Amen. -[926.04 --> 926.52] Amen. -[927.96 --> 927.98] Amen. -[927.98 --> 928.50] Amen. -[928.50 --> 928.58] Amen. -[928.58 --> 929.00] Amen. -[934.62 --> 938.58] Amen. -[938.66 --> 938.68] Amen. -[938.68 --> 939.00] Amen. -[939.00 --> 939.32] Amen. -[941.76 --> 942.98] Amen. -[942.98 --> 943.56] Amen. -[943.56 --> 958.82] There is thy faithfulness, O God my Father. -[958.82 --> 967.54] There is no shadow of turning with thee. -[967.54 --> 976.24] Thou changest not, thy compassions may fail not. -[976.66 --> 983.76] As thou hast been, thou forever wilt be. -[985.16 --> 992.88] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[992.88 --> 1000.86] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[1001.56 --> 1008.64] All I have needed, I have yet provided. -[1009.90 --> 1016.88] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me. -[1016.88 --> 1027.70] Summer and winter and springtime and harvest. -[1028.92 --> 1035.70] Sun, moon and stars in their courses above. -[1035.70 --> 1044.52] Join with all nature in manifold witness. -[1045.60 --> 1052.70] To thy great faithfulness, mercy and love. -[1053.92 --> 1060.70] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[1060.70 --> 1068.70] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[1069.70 --> 1076.70] All I have needed, thy hand hath provided. -[1076.70 --> 1085.70] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me. -[1085.70 --> 1086.70] Lord unto me. -[1086.70 --> 1096.70] Pardon for sin and the peace that endured. -[1096.70 --> 1106.20] My own dear presence to cheer and to guide. -[1106.20 --> 1107.20] Lord unto me. -[1107.20 --> 1113.20] Save for today and bright hope, Lord tomorrow. -[1113.20 --> 1114.20] Lord unto me. -[1114.20 --> 1122.20] Blessings all my words and thousand beside. -[1122.20 --> 1131.20] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[1131.20 --> 1132.20] Lord unto me. -[1132.20 --> 1133.20] Lord unto me. -[1133.20 --> 1147.20] All I have needed, thy hand hath provided. -[1147.20 --> 1156.20] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me. -[1156.20 --> 1157.20] Amen. -[1186.20 --> 1204.32] I will give thanks to Thee, O Lord, among the people. -[1204.32 --> 1213.32] I will sing praises to Thee among the nations. -[1213.32 --> 1227.32] For Thy steadfast love is great in its reign to the heavens, -[1227.32 --> 1238.32] and Thy faithfulness, Thy faithfulness to the clouds. -[1238.32 --> 1250.32] Thee exalted love of God above the heavens, -[1250.32 --> 1260.32] let Thy glory be over all the earth. -[1260.32 --> 1273.32] Thee exalted love of God above the heavens, -[1273.32 --> 1285.32] let Thy glory be over all the earth. -[1285.32 --> 1297.32] I will give thanks to Thee, O Lord, among the people. -[1297.32 --> 1309.32] I will sing praises to Thee among the nations. -[1309.32 --> 1321.32] For Thy steadfast love is great in its reign to the heavens, -[1321.32 --> 1331.32] and Thy faithfulness, Thy faithfulness to the clouds. -[1331.32 --> 1343.32] Thee exalted love of God above the heavens, -[1343.32 --> 1353.32] let Thy glory be over all the heavens. -[1353.32 --> 1365.32] Thee exalted love of God above the heavens, -[1365.32 --> 1375.32] let Thy glory be over all the earth. -[1375.32 --> 1387.32] And thee exalted love of God above the heavens. -[1387.32 --> 1391.32] And thee exalted love of God above the heavens. -[1391.32 --> 1407.32] Thee exalted love of God above the heavens. -[1407.32 --> 1419.32] Thee exalted love of God above the heavens. -[1419.32 --> 1429.32] Thee exalted love of God above the heavens. -[1429.32 --> 1430.32] Thee exalted love of God above the heavens. -[1430.32 --> 1434.32] Thee exalted love of God above the heavens. -[1434.32 --> 1437.32] I o doubt, x�� awfully great in the heavens. -[1437.32 --> 1439.32] I open upuliين to the heavens. -[1439.32 --> 1441.32] And thee exalted love of God above the heavens. -[1441.32 --> 1442.32] And thee exalted love of God above the heavens. -[1442.32 --> 1443.32] I open the forest love of God above the heavens. -[1443.32 --> 1444.32] Thee exalted love of God above the heavens. -[1444.32 --> 1447.32] He exalted love of God above the heavens. -[1447.32 --> 1449.32] And thee exalted love of God above the heavens. -[1449.32 --> 1451.32] And thee exalted love of God above the heavens. -[1451.32 --> 1452.68] Thee exalted love of God above the heavens. -[1452.68 --> 1453.32] And thee exalted love of God above the heavens. -[1453.32 --> 1454.58] Thee exalted love of God above the heavens. -[1454.58 --> 1455.18] Thee exalted love of goodness. -[1455.18 --> 1456.82] God below the heavens and above the heavens. -[1456.82 --> 1457.68] Thee exalted love of God above the heavens. -[1457.68 --> 1472.04] From heaven above with wisdom, power, and love, our God is an awesome God. -[1472.04 --> 1486.04] Our God is an awesome God, He reigns from heaven above with wisdom. -[1486.04 --> 1499.48] Our God is an awesome God, our God is an awesome God. -[1504.60 --> 1511.04] I invite you to join your hearts and voices in a liturgy of thanksgiving through song and prayer. -[1511.04 --> 1520.96] We will start by singing together Give Thanks, a song that grounds our thanksgiving first and foremost in what God has done in Jesus for us. -[1521.90 --> 1524.62] A connection and experience we now share together. -[1525.64 --> 1530.18] After, we will speak a responsive liturgy together, led by the worship team. -[1530.86 --> 1533.76] We encourage you to speak the words on screen indicated for you. -[1534.48 --> 1536.56] And then we will finish with Give Thanks again. -[1536.56 --> 1544.66] The liturgy we will share is adapted from Feasting with Friends in Every Moment Holy. -[1544.66 --> 1572.76] Give thanks with a grateful heart. -[1572.76 --> 1578.16] Give thanks to the Holy One. -[1578.16 --> 1589.12] Give thanks because He's given Jesus Christ to the Son. -[1589.80 --> 1595.18] Give thanks with a grateful heart. -[1595.62 --> 1600.80] Give thanks to the Holy One. -[1600.80 --> 1610.80] Give thanks because He's given Jesus Christ to the Son. -[1610.80 --> 1611.80] Give thanks because He's given Jesus Christ to the Son. -[1611.80 --> 1620.60] And now let the weak say I am strong. -[1620.60 --> 1625.80] Let the poor say I am rich. -[1625.80 --> 1655.78] Because of what the Lord has done. -[1655.78 --> 1661.78] For us give thanks. -[1661.78 --> 1669.96] To gather joyfully is indeed a serious affair. -[1670.78 --> 1677.32] For feasting and all enjoyments gratefully taken are, at their heart, acts of war. -[1677.32 --> 1678.32] For feasting and all the Lord has done. -[1678.32 --> 1679.32] And now let the Lord have a great joy. -[1679.32 --> 1692.32] To celebrate the Thanksgiving feast with worship, we declare that evil and death, suffering and loss, sorrow and tears, will not have the final word. -[1692.32 --> 1694.32] For feasting and all the Lord have a great joy. -[1694.32 --> 1714.14] The fellowship of worship, the celebrations of thanksgiving, the rumble of prayers sung and spoken with joy and laughter are the true evidences of things eternal and are the first fruits of that great glad joy that is to come and that will be unending. -[1714.14 --> 1721.14] So let our thanksgiving feast with us today. -[1721.14 --> 1722.14] May this thanksgiving feast with us today. -[1722.14 --> 1726.14] May this thanksgiving feast with us today. -[1726.14 --> 1727.14] May this thanksgiving feast with us today. -[1727.14 --> 1728.14] May this thanksgiving feast with us today. -[1728.14 --> 1735.26] May this thanksgiving feast of worship, through word and table, fall like a great hammer blow against the dark night, shattering the gloom. -[1735.98 --> 1741.48] We are awakening our hearts, stirring our imaginations, focusing our vision. -[1741.48 --> 1754.48] May this thanksgiving feast with us today. -[1754.48 --> 1754.50] May this thanksgiving feast with us today. -[1754.50 --> 1764.00] May this thanksgiving feast of worship be an echo of that great supper of the Lamb, a foreshadowing of the great celebration that awaits the children of God. -[1764.00 --> 1773.52] May this thanksgiving feast with us today. -[1773.56 --> 1777.38] May this thanksgiving feast with us today. -[1778.26 --> 1783.40] May we have changed our mind to a sudden, but God's faith with us today. -[1785.00 --> 1789.74] May this thanksgiving feast with us today. -[1789.74 --> 1793.88] May this thanksgiving feast with us today. -[1793.88 --> 1799.90] In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. -[1811.84 --> 1817.20] Give thanks with a grateful heart. -[1817.56 --> 1821.88] Give thanks to the Holy One. -[1821.88 --> 1833.12] Give thanks because He's given Jesus Christ in His Son. -[1833.62 --> 1838.88] Give thanks with a grateful heart. -[1839.26 --> 1844.24] Give thanks to the Holy One. -[1844.24 --> 1854.98] Give thanks because He's given Jesus Christ in His Son. -[1854.98 --> 1862.86] And now let the weak say I am strong. -[1863.18 --> 1868.22] Let the poor say I am rich. -[1868.22 --> 1876.22] Because of what the Lord has done for us. -[1876.96 --> 1884.22] And now let the weak say I am strong. -[1884.22 --> 1889.72] Let the poor say I am rich. -[1889.96 --> 1898.56] Because of what the Lord has done for us. -[1898.56 --> 1902.64] Give thanks. -[1902.64 --> 1930.64] Thank you for saving me. -[1930.64 --> 1935.64] What can I say? -[1935.64 --> 1942.52] You are my everything. -[1942.52 --> 1948.52] I will sing your praise. -[1948.52 --> 1955.26] You shed your blood for me. -[1955.26 --> 1960.52] What can I say? -[1960.52 --> 1967.52] You took my sin and shame. -[1967.52 --> 1972.52] A sinner called my name. -[1972.52 --> 1985.52] Great is the Lord. -[1985.52 --> 1995.52] Great is the Lord. -[1995.52 --> 1997.52] God. -[1997.52 --> 2000.52] For we know your truth. -[2000.52 --> 2005.52] The set must be. -[2005.52 --> 2018.52] You set your hope in me. -[2018.52 --> 2019.52] God is with the Lord. -[2019.52 --> 2021.52] God is with you. -[2021.52 --> 2022.52] God is with us. -[2022.52 --> 2023.52] God is with us. -[2023.52 --> 2025.52] For me and grace are mine. -[2025.52 --> 2026.52] God is with us. -[2026.52 --> 2027.52] For me and grace are mine. -[2027.52 --> 2031.52] For forgiven is my sin. -[2031.52 --> 2038.20] Jesus my only Lord -[2038.20 --> 2043.32] Savior of the world -[2043.32 --> 2049.64] Great is the Lord we cry -[2049.64 --> 2054.14] Let your kingdom come -[2054.14 --> 2060.76] Your word has let me see -[2060.76 --> 2065.98] Thank you for saving me -[2065.98 --> 2077.86] Great is the Lord -[2077.86 --> 2087.94] Great is the Lord -[2087.94 --> 2097.16] For we know your truth has set us free -[2097.16 --> 2106.38] You set your home -[2106.38 --> 2108.38] In me -[2108.38 --> 2118.38] Thank you for saving me -[2118.38 --> 2123.60] What can I say -[2123.60 --> 2134.82] When I'm found of every blessing -[2134.82 --> 2138.04] Give me the Lord -[2138.04 --> 2140.04] Give me the Lord -[2140.04 --> 2141.04] Give me the Lord -[2141.04 --> 2142.04] Give me the Lord -[2142.04 --> 2148.04] And I'll count of every blessing -[2148.04 --> 2153.04] Tick my heart to sing thy praise -[2153.04 --> 2158.20] Saints of mercy, mercy, sing -[2158.20 --> 2163.42] Call for songs of loudest praise -[2163.42 --> 2167.42] Teach me so, God, how you saw it -[2167.42 --> 2172.42] Stuck my faith in tongues of God -[2172.42 --> 2177.42] Raise the mountain, face upon it -[2177.42 --> 2181.42] Mount of thy holy divine -[2181.42 --> 2190.64] Here I raise my Ebenezer -[2190.64 --> 2194.64] Hither by thy help I come -[2194.64 --> 2200.52] And I hope by thy good pleasure -[2200.52 --> 2205.74] Safely to arrive at home -[2205.74 --> 2210.74] Jesus sought me when a stranger -[2210.74 --> 2215.50] Wandering from the fold of God -[2215.50 --> 2220.60] He to rescue me from danger -[2221.74 --> 2225.74] Interposed his precious blood -[2225.74 --> 2233.22] Prove to grace, how great a debtor -[2233.22 --> 2237.82] Daily I am constrained to thee -[2237.82 --> 2243.02] Let thy grace, like a feather -[2243.02 --> 2247.96] Bind my one great heart to thee -[2247.96 --> 2253.18] Prove to wonder, Lord, I feel it -[2253.18 --> 2257.62] Prove to leave the God alone -[2257.62 --> 2262.98] Here's my heart, Lord, take and steal it -[2262.98 --> 2267.40] Seal it for thy courts above -[2267.40 --> 2275.16] Come, thou fount of every blessing -[2275.16 --> 2280.00] Tune my heart to sing thy praise -[2280.00 --> 2285.02] Streams of mercy never ceasing -[2285.02 --> 2289.80] Call for songs of loudest praise -[2289.80 --> 2294.80] Teach me so, God, how you saw it -[2294.80 --> 2299.32] From thy waving tongues above -[2299.32 --> 2304.00] Raise the mountain, face upon it -[2304.00 --> 2309.00] Mount of thy redeeming love -[2309.00 --> 2314.74] Fade the mountain, face upon it -[2314.74 --> 2321.00] Mount of thy redeeming love -[2321.00 --> 2322.92] I invite you to receive it -[2322.92 --> 2347.72] Good morning -[2347.72 --> 2349.50] Happy Thanksgiving -[2349.50 --> 2353.84] The first offering is for the church -[2353.84 --> 2356.42] Budget and today's special offering -[2356.42 --> 2358.06] Is for the Langley Food Bank -[2358.06 --> 2360.44] An organization that is close to -[2360.44 --> 2361.74] This congregation's heart -[2361.74 --> 2364.60] This past summer we held a food drive -[2364.60 --> 2366.48] Along with our community fair -[2366.48 --> 2369.14] And many in this church family -[2369.14 --> 2370.24] Help out there -[2370.24 --> 2373.38] Today we have a chance to help out -[2373.38 --> 2374.78] This ministry financially -[2374.78 --> 2378.96] Sadly, the number of families seeking basic groceries -[2378.96 --> 2382.40] And supplies has increased in the past year -[2382.40 --> 2384.84] Due to the current economic climate -[2384.84 --> 2388.66] But more than food provisions -[2388.66 --> 2394.32] The Food Bank offers kindness, conversations, and relational connections to prayer -[2394.32 --> 2396.48] Local churches, and more -[2396.48 --> 2399.20] Our support helps make this happen -[2399.20 --> 2402.64] Thank you for giving as the Lord leads -[2402.64 --> 2407.70] Just a reminder that all donations and the offering bags -[2407.70 --> 2410.86] Will go to the food bank unless otherwise designated -[2410.86 --> 2411.66] Thank you -[2411.66 --> 2411.88] Thank you -[2411.88 --> 2413.04] Thank you -[2413.04 --> 2413.60] Thank you -[2413.60 --> 2425.80] Thank you -[2425.80 --> 2427.12] Thank you -[2427.12 --> 2427.86] Thank you -[2427.86 --> 2450.58] I will offer up my life in spirit and truth -[2450.58 --> 2457.42] Pouring out the oil of love as my worship to you -[2457.42 --> 2464.52] Be surrender, I must give my every heart -[2464.52 --> 2471.46] Lord, receive the sacrifice of a broken heart -[2471.46 --> 2478.28] Jesus, what can I give? What can I bring? -[2478.28 --> 2484.88] Too so faithful a friend, too so loving a king -[2484.88 --> 2491.78] Savior, what can be said? What can be sung? -[2492.26 --> 2498.42] As the praise of your name, all the things you have done -[2498.42 --> 2506.32] All my words could not tell, not even in part -[2506.32 --> 2515.90] Of the debt of love that is owed by this thankful heart -[2515.90 --> 2528.64] You deserve my every breath, for you paid the great cost -[2528.64 --> 2535.24] Giving up your life to death, even death on a cross -[2535.24 --> 2541.80] You took all my shame away, and you flee in my sin -[2541.80 --> 2548.40] Open up the days of grace, and they'll beckon me in -[2548.40 --> 2554.94] Jesus, what can I give? What can I bring? -[2554.94 --> 2561.54] You so faithful a friend, too so loving a king -[2561.54 --> 2568.22] Savior, what can be said? What can be sung? -[2568.22 --> 2574.72] As the praise of your name, all the things you have done -[2574.72 --> 2582.10] All my words could not tell, not even in part -[2582.10 --> 2588.36] Of the debt of love that is owed -[2588.36 --> 2594.74] Of the debt of love that is owed -[2594.74 --> 2601.78] Of the debt of love that is owed -[2601.78 --> 2605.28] By this thankful heart -[2605.28 --> 2632.54] Good morning, everyone. If you are age three up into grade four, I'd like to invite you to come up front for a minute for Kids Corner. -[2635.28 --> 2643.88] Happy Thanksgiving to everybody -[2643.88 --> 2650.06] So I thought we'd just start up here by just thinking of some things we're thankful for -[2650.06 --> 2652.38] Since it's Thanksgiving, and we've been talking about that -[2652.38 --> 2654.82] Probably at school, or maybe even at home -[2654.82 --> 2657.04] Does anyone have something they could share? -[2657.18 --> 2658.50] Something that you're thankful for? -[2659.50 --> 2659.98] Malachi? -[2659.98 --> 2660.12] Malachi? -[2660.12 --> 2667.12] The food you eat. Excellent. I have to agree with that, too. Yes, Karis? -[2668.72 --> 2673.84] For your family. Maybe some of you are thinking, oh, I'm thankful for those things, too. Does anyone else have an idea? -[2673.84 --> 2675.08] Naila? -[2675.08 --> 2677.18] For your friends? -[2677.18 --> 2678.26] Yeah. -[2678.26 --> 2679.86] Yes. -[2679.86 --> 2683.10] Family? You guys have such great answers. -[2683.10 --> 2689.22] So today in children's worship, we're going to talk about something I'm thankful for, which is peace -[2689.22 --> 2691.84] Now we can think of peace -[2691.84 --> 2695.34] About ourselves, like things that make ourself feel peaceful -[2695.34 --> 2698.26] Maybe there's what we'll talk about there, so I won't give you too many ideas -[2698.26 --> 2699.86] But how can you be peaceful yourself? -[2699.86 --> 2703.26] But what does peace also look like in your family, with your friends -[2703.26 --> 2707.12] In our city or your school and in our world? -[2707.12 --> 2709.74] And what does God say about peace in the Bible? -[2710.34 --> 2712.38] So that will be our theme today as we go -[2712.38 --> 2714.98] But before, I'd like you guys to stand up -[2714.98 --> 2719.12] Will everyone please stand up and we'll do the children's blessing -[2719.12 --> 2720.12] Amen -[2720.12 --> 2724.12] Amen -[2724.12 --> 2728.12] Amen -[2728.12 --> 2730.12] Amen -[2730.12 --> 2732.12] Amen -[2732.12 --> 2734.12] Amen -[2734.12 --> 2736.12] Amen -[2736.12 --> 2737.10] Amen -[2737.10 --> 2767.08] Amen -[2767.08 --> 2770.90] I'd like to invite you to pray together with me in our family prayer -[2770.90 --> 2779.50] Gracious Heavenly Father -[2779.50 --> 2782.86] You are our sovereign God -[2782.86 --> 2784.90] Who created all things for our -[2784.90 --> 2786.06] For your pleasure -[2786.06 --> 2788.80] And who gives us all life -[2788.80 --> 2789.56] Breath -[2789.56 --> 2791.34] And every good thing -[2791.34 --> 2794.34] We thank you for the world you created -[2794.34 --> 2795.20] Which we live -[2795.20 --> 2795.94] Lord -[2795.94 --> 2796.04] Lord -[2796.04 --> 2799.28] We have the privilege to live in this beautiful place -[2799.28 --> 2803.10] We only have to look around us to see your handiwork -[2803.10 --> 2808.84] We give thanks for all of this world and its immense beauty -[2808.84 --> 2811.42] Its staggering strength -[2811.42 --> 2816.30] Its heights and depths and breaths of it -[2816.30 --> 2819.00] Beyond our knowing -[2819.00 --> 2821.94] And yet -[2821.94 --> 2822.02] And yet -[2822.02 --> 2824.24] You know it -[2824.24 --> 2826.00] You know us -[2826.00 --> 2828.58] You have made yourself known -[2828.58 --> 2833.08] For the abundance of the gifts you give us -[2833.08 --> 2834.18] We thank you -[2834.18 --> 2835.56] For the sun -[2835.56 --> 2837.10] For the rains -[2837.10 --> 2838.94] That allow the land to flourish -[2838.94 --> 2841.06] Your blessings -[2841.06 --> 2842.08] Poured out -[2842.08 --> 2844.38] On each and every one of us -[2844.38 --> 2845.68] Regardless of what we do -[2845.68 --> 2845.70] Regardless of what we do -[2845.70 --> 2846.94] And how we live our lives -[2846.94 --> 2850.10] We thank you -[2850.10 --> 2853.06] Also in times of disappointments -[2853.06 --> 2855.14] And failures that lead us to the knowledge -[2855.14 --> 2857.86] And of that -[2857.86 --> 2859.48] We depend on you alone -[2859.48 --> 2862.26] And especially we thank you -[2862.26 --> 2863.60] For your saving grace -[2863.60 --> 2865.64] That you've shown us -[2865.64 --> 2866.34] Through your son -[2866.34 --> 2867.22] Jesus Christ -[2867.22 --> 2869.66] Open our hearts -[2869.66 --> 2872.20] So that we allow your spirit to lead us -[2872.20 --> 2874.90] So that we may walk in your ways -[2874.90 --> 2878.44] With your spirit help us to pray -[2878.44 --> 2881.02] Because we don't know how to pray as we should -[2881.02 --> 2883.68] But intercede for us -[2883.68 --> 2886.24] With sighs too deep for words -[2886.24 --> 2891.98] Father we give you thanks for bringing us together as a church -[2891.98 --> 2896.40] We pray that you would bless us in our worship -[2896.40 --> 2898.76] Bless us in our fellowship -[2898.76 --> 2902.68] We give you thanks for this place to meet -[2902.68 --> 2905.44] That has been provided for us -[2905.44 --> 2907.88] We thank you -[2907.88 --> 2908.72] Oh God -[2908.72 --> 2910.92] For Christ's church -[2910.92 --> 2911.74] As we know it -[2911.74 --> 2913.22] And see it throughout the world -[2913.22 --> 2915.38] And pray for your blessing on it -[2915.38 --> 2919.24] Thank you for your mercy and grace -[2919.24 --> 2921.34] For always being there when we need you -[2921.34 --> 2923.28] When the days are long -[2923.28 --> 2924.74] And our troubles heavy -[2924.74 --> 2926.34] You are there -[2926.34 --> 2927.80] To walk beside us -[2927.80 --> 2931.42] We have all come with individual -[2931.42 --> 2932.68] And personal needs -[2932.68 --> 2934.52] Needs that we may not have shared -[2934.52 --> 2935.48] With anyone else -[2935.48 --> 2937.12] But you know us -[2937.12 --> 2938.36] And the struggles -[2938.36 --> 2939.86] And the burdens we are facing -[2939.86 --> 2943.78] We especially think of -[2943.78 --> 2945.04] And pray for Judy Dykstra -[2945.04 --> 2947.64] As she continues to deal with health issues -[2947.64 --> 2951.28] Lord we pray also for Rose Vita -[2951.28 --> 2953.62] Who's having a difficult time right now -[2953.62 --> 2956.88] We ask that you will give healing and comfort -[2956.88 --> 2965.34] We pray for students that are traveling to and from school for this weekend -[2965.34 --> 2966.72] To be with family -[2966.72 --> 2970.72] We pray for Klaus Tessemacher -[2970.72 --> 2973.36] And Amanda and Ken and the kids -[2973.36 --> 2975.24] And their extended family and friends -[2975.24 --> 2976.50] Through this time of mourning -[2976.50 --> 2978.16] Of Thelma -[2978.16 --> 2982.82] We pray for those who are struggling with relationships -[2982.82 --> 2983.88] And grief -[2983.88 --> 2987.28] Or other issues -[2987.28 --> 2989.92] Lord we ask that you will continue to bless -[2989.92 --> 2991.02] And give comfort -[2991.02 --> 2993.20] And grace and strength where it's needed -[2993.20 --> 2997.02] And Lord we think of the war and strife -[2997.02 --> 2997.76] In the Middle East -[2997.76 --> 3000.00] And we pray for peace -[3000.00 --> 3003.16] And we pray that it may come quickly -[3003.16 --> 3008.92] We ask for your protection on this congregation -[3008.92 --> 3011.86] We pray that you will continue to bless -[3011.86 --> 3013.98] The ongoing ministries of this church -[3013.98 --> 3016.96] Sustain us in the present -[3016.96 --> 3019.08] And guide us into the future -[3019.08 --> 3022.80] As we hear your word for us this morning -[3022.80 --> 3026.24] Through the word preached by Pastor Chris -[3026.24 --> 3029.40] Bind us together in Christ -[3029.40 --> 3032.28] Keep us focused on the purpose -[3032.28 --> 3036.28] And fill us with your Holy Spirit -[3036.28 --> 3041.16] We pray that we will grow in love and truth -[3041.16 --> 3043.12] Righteousness and peace -[3043.12 --> 3044.70] Hope and faith -[3044.70 --> 3047.50] Help us to grow in Jesus -[3047.50 --> 3050.38] That we may become more and more like him -[3050.38 --> 3052.96] In character and in soul -[3052.96 --> 3057.24] Fulfill your will and purposes through us -[3057.24 --> 3059.38] Advance your kingdom -[3059.38 --> 3061.20] Through us -[3061.20 --> 3063.88] So that your Holy Name is glorified -[3063.88 --> 3066.56] Who are we -[3066.56 --> 3068.32] That we should share -[3068.32 --> 3070.00] In your love and tender care -[3070.00 --> 3072.46] Raised to an exalted height -[3072.46 --> 3074.46] And crowned with honor -[3074.46 --> 3075.86] In your sight -[3075.86 --> 3078.58] How great your name -[3078.58 --> 3081.18] Come quickly Lord -[3081.18 --> 3083.98] And bring our redemption to completeness -[3083.98 --> 3087.50] We pray for all these things -[3087.50 --> 3088.92] In your Holy Name -[3088.92 --> 3090.22] Amen -[3090.22 --> 3111.98] As you can see on the screen behind you -[3111.98 --> 3114.08] We're going to read together this morning -[3114.08 --> 3115.74] From Luke 17 -[3115.74 --> 3118.60] Verse 11 through 19 -[3118.60 --> 3120.42] Before we do that -[3120.42 --> 3121.50] Let me just say -[3121.50 --> 3122.98] It is good to be with you -[3122.98 --> 3123.56] Again -[3123.56 --> 3125.80] If you were not here last week -[3125.80 --> 3128.20] I also was not here last week -[3128.20 --> 3129.92] I was preaching at Living Hope -[3129.92 --> 3130.58] And that was very -[3130.58 --> 3132.08] Pastor Steve was here -[3132.08 --> 3134.94] And he is grateful for you -[3134.94 --> 3136.06] And for his time here -[3136.06 --> 3136.88] And his celebration -[3136.88 --> 3140.04] I had an excellent time at Living Hope -[3140.04 --> 3141.08] But I was reminded -[3141.08 --> 3142.26] While I was there -[3142.26 --> 3144.30] Just how grateful I am for you guys -[3144.30 --> 3146.48] And for our church family here -[3146.48 --> 3147.28] And the community -[3147.28 --> 3148.56] And culture -[3148.56 --> 3149.82] That we have -[3149.82 --> 3151.56] Built together -[3151.56 --> 3152.58] And so -[3152.58 --> 3154.38] This Thanksgiving weekend -[3154.38 --> 3155.26] Let me just say -[3155.26 --> 3156.26] That one of the things -[3156.26 --> 3157.60] I am thankful for -[3157.60 --> 3158.32] Is you -[3158.32 --> 3159.86] And for our time together -[3159.86 --> 3163.50] Let's read -[3163.50 --> 3165.58] From Luke 17 -[3165.58 --> 3166.46] Together -[3166.46 --> 3168.80] I'm going to start at verse 11 -[3168.80 --> 3172.00] Now -[3172.00 --> 3173.14] On his way -[3173.14 --> 3173.90] To Jerusalem -[3173.90 --> 3175.62] Jesus traveled -[3175.62 --> 3176.74] Along the border -[3176.74 --> 3177.88] Between Samaria -[3177.88 --> 3178.78] And Galilee -[3178.78 --> 3180.94] As he was going -[3180.94 --> 3181.94] Into a village -[3181.94 --> 3182.72] Ten men -[3182.72 --> 3183.76] Who had leprosy -[3183.76 --> 3184.36] Met him -[3184.36 --> 3186.28] They stood at a distance -[3186.28 --> 3187.26] And called out -[3187.26 --> 3188.10] In a loud voice -[3188.10 --> 3188.88] Jesus -[3188.88 --> 3189.62] Master -[3189.62 --> 3191.06] Have pity on us -[3191.06 --> 3193.40] When he saw them -[3193.40 --> 3194.06] He said -[3194.06 --> 3195.00] Go -[3195.00 --> 3196.08] Show yourselves -[3196.08 --> 3197.20] To the priests -[3197.20 --> 3199.26] And as they went -[3199.26 --> 3200.90] They were cleansed -[3200.90 --> 3203.50] Now one of them -[3203.50 --> 3204.44] When he saw -[3204.44 --> 3205.28] He was healed -[3205.28 --> 3206.34] Came back -[3206.34 --> 3207.58] Praising God -[3207.58 --> 3208.60] In a loud voice -[3208.60 --> 3209.64] He threw himself -[3209.64 --> 3210.68] At Jesus' feet -[3210.68 --> 3211.86] And thanked him -[3211.86 --> 3214.02] And he was a Samaritan -[3214.02 --> 3216.20] Jesus asked -[3216.20 --> 3217.54] Were not all ten -[3217.54 --> 3218.40] Cleansed? -[3218.40 --> 3219.16] Where are you -[3219.16 --> 3220.16] And he said -[3220.16 --> 3220.92] Has no one -[3220.92 --> 3222.16] Returned to give praise -[3222.16 --> 3222.66] To God -[3222.66 --> 3223.80] Except for this -[3223.80 --> 3224.58] Foreigner? -[3225.30 --> 3225.94] And then he said -[3225.94 --> 3226.30] To him -[3226.30 --> 3227.88] Rise and go -[3227.88 --> 3229.22] For your faith -[3229.22 --> 3230.44] Has made you -[3230.44 --> 3231.24] Well -[3231.24 --> 3232.92] This is the word -[3232.92 --> 3233.36] Lord -[3233.36 --> 3240.36] As it is -[3240.36 --> 3241.26] Thanksgiving -[3241.26 --> 3242.86] We can -[3242.86 --> 3244.06] It's probable -[3244.06 --> 3244.88] That you're going -[3244.88 --> 3245.72] To gather -[3245.72 --> 3246.46] With family -[3246.46 --> 3247.36] With friends -[3247.36 --> 3247.88] With group -[3247.88 --> 3248.52] Of people -[3248.52 --> 3249.86] And maybe -[3249.86 --> 3250.74] You have -[3250.74 --> 3251.60] Particular -[3251.60 --> 3252.74] Thanksgiving -[3252.74 --> 3253.74] Traditions -[3253.74 --> 3255.18] In your family -[3255.18 --> 3256.76] Maybe you're -[3256.76 --> 3257.74] One of those -[3257.74 --> 3258.70] Groups of people -[3258.70 --> 3260.26] Who go around -[3260.26 --> 3260.90] The table -[3260.90 --> 3262.14] Before everyone -[3262.14 --> 3262.62] Is allowed -[3262.62 --> 3263.20] To eat -[3263.20 --> 3263.74] And you have -[3263.74 --> 3264.48] To give something -[3264.48 --> 3265.28] That you're thankful -[3265.28 --> 3265.70] For -[3265.70 --> 3266.46] And then if you -[3266.46 --> 3267.00] Have more than -[3267.00 --> 3267.64] Four people -[3267.64 --> 3268.24] At the table -[3268.24 --> 3268.80] By the time -[3268.80 --> 3269.28] You get to the -[3269.28 --> 3269.82] Fifth one -[3269.82 --> 3270.84] You're recycling -[3270.84 --> 3271.72] All things -[3271.72 --> 3272.20] And nobody -[3272.20 --> 3272.92] Meals original -[3272.92 --> 3273.42] Anymore -[3273.42 --> 3273.98] And they get to -[3273.98 --> 3274.46] You at the end -[3274.46 --> 3274.76] You're like -[3274.76 --> 3277.04] You guys have -[3277.04 --> 3277.68] Said all the cool -[3277.68 --> 3278.10] Things -[3278.10 --> 3279.94] I'm thankful -[3279.94 --> 3281.06] For this food -[3281.06 --> 3282.44] Or -[3282.44 --> 3282.96] I'm thankful -[3282.96 --> 3283.66] For my mom and -[3283.66 --> 3284.00] Dad -[3284.00 --> 3285.24] Mom and dad -[3285.24 --> 3285.88] Usually end up -[3285.88 --> 3286.48] Down the bottom -[3286.48 --> 3286.92] Of the list -[3286.92 --> 3287.38] Somewhere -[3287.38 --> 3289.68] Maybe your -[3289.68 --> 3290.84] Tradition is -[3290.84 --> 3291.34] To -[3291.34 --> 3293.42] Eat so much -[3293.42 --> 3294.24] And then have -[3294.24 --> 3295.32] A three hour nap -[3295.32 --> 3296.12] While magically -[3296.12 --> 3296.84] Everything is -[3296.84 --> 3297.32] Cleamed up -[3297.32 --> 3297.90] Afterwards -[3297.90 --> 3301.28] Maybe your -[3301.28 --> 3302.12] Tradition is -[3302.12 --> 3302.92] To go out -[3302.92 --> 3303.64] And play -[3303.64 --> 3304.26] Cash -[3304.26 --> 3305.24] Or football -[3305.24 --> 3306.08] Or something -[3306.08 --> 3307.90] With your -[3307.90 --> 3308.42] Family -[3308.42 --> 3309.24] And friends -[3309.24 --> 3310.72] Maybe your -[3310.72 --> 3311.20] Tradition is -[3311.20 --> 3311.58] To go for -[3311.58 --> 3311.88] Hive -[3311.88 --> 3313.94] I recently -[3313.94 --> 3315.60] Follow this -[3315.60 --> 3316.24] Account on -[3316.24 --> 3316.66] Instagram -[3316.66 --> 3317.70] Outdoors -[3317.70 --> 3318.18] Account -[3318.18 --> 3318.74] Anybody -[3318.74 --> 3319.00] They're -[3319.00 --> 3319.42] Showing -[3319.42 --> 3320.28] Beautiful -[3320.28 --> 3320.70] Pictures -[3320.70 --> 3321.24] And videos -[3321.24 --> 3322.14] Of these -[3322.14 --> 3322.90] Massive -[3322.90 --> 3323.70] Landscapes -[3323.70 --> 3324.36] Mountainous -[3324.36 --> 3326.36] Forested -[3326.36 --> 3326.92] And there's -[3326.92 --> 3327.62] No people -[3327.62 --> 3327.94] There -[3327.94 --> 3328.28] And they -[3328.28 --> 3328.48] Said -[3328.48 --> 3329.08] Have you ever -[3329.08 --> 3329.52] Noticed -[3329.52 --> 3329.88] That the -[3329.88 --> 3330.60] Further you -[3330.60 --> 3331.16] Get from -[3331.16 --> 3331.60] People -[3331.60 --> 3332.46] The better -[3332.46 --> 3332.96] You feel -[3332.96 --> 3334.56] Maybe that's -[3334.56 --> 3335.06] Thanksgiving -[3335.06 --> 3335.18] Thanksgiving -[3335.18 --> 3336.02] To be -[3336.02 --> 3336.44] Alone -[3336.44 --> 3337.72] Just leave -[3337.72 --> 3338.40] Me alone -[3338.40 --> 3339.66] Maybe that's -[3339.66 --> 3340.06] Your tradition -[3340.06 --> 3341.80] We all have -[3341.80 --> 3342.42] These kinds -[3342.42 --> 3342.90] Of traditions -[3342.90 --> 3343.36] And to be -[3343.36 --> 3343.76] Honest -[3343.76 --> 3344.38] It's not -[3344.38 --> 3344.96] Particularly -[3344.96 --> 3345.88] A Christian -[3345.88 --> 3347.32] To have -[3347.32 --> 3347.82] These kinds -[3347.82 --> 3348.38] Of traditions -[3348.38 --> 3349.54] Right -[3349.54 --> 3350.74] Thanksgiving -[3350.74 --> 3351.82] And at least -[3351.82 --> 3352.56] North America -[3352.56 --> 3354.20] Is a cultural -[3354.20 --> 3355.42] Practice -[3355.42 --> 3359.62] What I hope -[3359.62 --> 3360.22] We will see -[3360.22 --> 3360.86] This morning -[3360.86 --> 3362.24] Though -[3362.24 --> 3362.80] Is that -[3362.80 --> 3363.52] There ought to be -[3363.52 --> 3364.76] Something distinct -[3364.76 --> 3366.06] About our -[3366.06 --> 3367.08] Thanksgiving -[3367.08 --> 3369.12] Now our focus -[3369.12 --> 3369.66] This morning -[3369.66 --> 3370.32] Is going to come -[3370.32 --> 3371.28] From verse -[3371.28 --> 3372.02] 15 -[3372.02 --> 3372.84] Primarily -[3372.84 --> 3373.78] Although we will -[3373.78 --> 3374.48] Of course look -[3374.48 --> 3375.04] And bounce -[3375.04 --> 3375.56] Through all -[3375.56 --> 3375.96] Of what we -[3375.96 --> 3376.22] Read -[3376.22 --> 3377.46] But the -[3377.46 --> 3378.38] Principle -[3378.38 --> 3379.04] That I would -[3379.04 --> 3379.74] Like us to -[3379.74 --> 3380.32] See -[3380.32 --> 3381.08] At work -[3381.08 --> 3381.48] In this -[3381.48 --> 3381.82] Text -[3381.82 --> 3382.16] And then -[3382.16 --> 3382.92] In application -[3382.92 --> 3383.58] For our -[3383.58 --> 3384.02] Lives -[3384.02 --> 3384.54] Is this -[3384.54 --> 3385.98] That though -[3385.98 --> 3386.60] Thanksgiving -[3386.60 --> 3387.88] Isn't distinctly -[3387.88 --> 3388.50] Christian -[3388.50 --> 3389.32] Or Thanksgiving -[3389.32 --> 3390.40] Isn't distinctly -[3390.40 --> 3390.84] Christian -[3390.84 --> 3392.26] But giving -[3392.26 --> 3393.02] Thanks -[3393.02 --> 3394.44] Is a distinctive -[3394.44 --> 3396.90] Of the true -[3396.90 --> 3397.66] Christian -[3397.66 --> 3400.36] Now to set -[3400.36 --> 3400.68] That up -[3400.68 --> 3401.14] Let's read -[3401.14 --> 3402.08] Verse 15 -[3402.08 --> 3403.06] Again -[3403.06 --> 3404.46] Verse 15 -[3404.46 --> 3404.90] Says -[3404.90 --> 3406.40] One of them -[3406.40 --> 3407.34] When he saw -[3407.34 --> 3408.22] He was healed -[3408.22 --> 3409.30] Came back -[3409.30 --> 3410.48] Praising God -[3410.48 --> 3411.10] In a loud -[3411.10 --> 3411.92] Voice -[3411.92 --> 3412.56] He threw -[3412.56 --> 3412.94] Himself -[3412.94 --> 3413.78] At the feet -[3413.78 --> 3414.76] Of Jesus -[3414.76 --> 3415.70] At Jesus' feet -[3415.70 --> 3416.78] And thanked him -[3416.78 --> 3418.24] And then Jesus -[3418.24 --> 3418.88] Picks up -[3418.88 --> 3419.48] On this -[3419.48 --> 3420.40] Thanksgiving -[3420.40 --> 3421.06] Again -[3421.06 --> 3422.08] In verse 18 -[3422.08 --> 3423.00] Where Jesus -[3423.00 --> 3423.28] Says -[3423.28 --> 3424.00] Has no one -[3424.00 --> 3424.68] Returned -[3424.68 --> 3425.88] To praise God -[3425.88 --> 3426.38] Except -[3426.38 --> 3427.20] This -[3427.20 --> 3427.98] Forward -[3427.98 --> 3430.68] Now there's a lot -[3430.68 --> 3431.40] Going on in this -[3431.40 --> 3432.00] Text that we can -[3432.00 --> 3432.78] Spend our time -[3432.78 --> 3433.06] With -[3433.06 --> 3433.76] But I want to -[3433.76 --> 3434.24] Notice -[3434.24 --> 3435.28] A couple -[3435.28 --> 3436.32] Two things -[3436.32 --> 3437.28] With you -[3437.28 --> 3438.48] This morning -[3438.48 --> 3439.76] First -[3439.76 --> 3440.32] Notice -[3440.32 --> 3441.68] That this man -[3441.68 --> 3442.92] And Jesus -[3442.92 --> 3444.26] Connect -[3444.26 --> 3445.14] Together -[3445.14 --> 3446.62] Praising God -[3446.62 --> 3447.82] Thanking Jesus -[3447.82 --> 3449.20] And then returning -[3449.20 --> 3450.42] To praise God -[3450.42 --> 3451.72] While at Jesus' feet -[3451.72 --> 3454.26] Someone -[3454.26 --> 3455.48] Shared a video -[3455.48 --> 3455.96] With me -[3455.96 --> 3456.50] Recently -[3456.50 --> 3457.98] About a person -[3457.98 --> 3458.84] Who was -[3458.84 --> 3459.70] Kind of -[3459.70 --> 3461.58] Walking around -[3461.58 --> 3462.30] In a public -[3462.30 --> 3463.30] Area -[3463.30 --> 3464.16] I think it might have been -[3464.16 --> 3465.06] A Christian university -[3465.06 --> 3465.66] Actually -[3465.66 --> 3467.84] And this person -[3467.84 --> 3468.62] Was challenging -[3468.62 --> 3469.30] Christians -[3469.30 --> 3470.76] On these commonly held -[3470.76 --> 3471.20] Beliefs -[3471.20 --> 3471.90] And in the video -[3471.90 --> 3473.04] This person -[3473.04 --> 3473.88] Would walk up to -[3473.88 --> 3475.20] A professing Christian -[3475.20 --> 3476.18] And they would say -[3476.18 --> 3477.32] Here's a Bible -[3477.32 --> 3478.56] Show me -[3478.56 --> 3479.28] In the Bible -[3479.28 --> 3479.98] Where Jesus -[3479.98 --> 3480.70] Says -[3480.70 --> 3481.74] That he is God -[3481.74 --> 3483.62] And then -[3483.62 --> 3484.24] Under the mounting -[3484.24 --> 3484.86] Pressure -[3484.86 --> 3485.42] Of someone -[3485.42 --> 3486.32] Like standing -[3486.32 --> 3487.14] Right in front of them -[3487.14 --> 3487.78] And forcing them -[3487.78 --> 3488.90] To think on their toes -[3488.90 --> 3490.28] And challenging them -[3490.28 --> 3491.12] They can't do it -[3491.12 --> 3491.62] Or at least -[3491.62 --> 3492.30] In the particular -[3492.30 --> 3493.38] Edits of the video -[3493.38 --> 3493.96] That ends up -[3493.96 --> 3494.64] On social media -[3494.64 --> 3495.74] They can't do it -[3495.74 --> 3497.60] And then the person -[3497.60 --> 3498.44] In the video -[3498.44 --> 3499.22] Concludes -[3499.22 --> 3499.68] See -[3499.68 --> 3501.00] Even Jesus -[3501.00 --> 3501.58] Didn't think -[3501.58 --> 3502.24] He was God -[3502.24 --> 3503.84] But -[3503.84 --> 3504.26] Even just -[3504.26 --> 3505.18] From this text -[3505.18 --> 3506.92] The way that Luke -[3506.92 --> 3507.46] Is writing -[3507.46 --> 3509.06] He's setting up -[3509.06 --> 3510.20] What you might call -[3510.20 --> 3510.92] The grammatical -[3510.92 --> 3511.80] Equivalency -[3511.80 --> 3512.76] And so notice -[3512.76 --> 3513.30] The character -[3513.30 --> 3515.52] The man returns -[3515.52 --> 3516.78] Praising God -[3516.78 --> 3518.28] He throws himself -[3518.28 --> 3519.58] At Jesus' feet -[3519.58 --> 3520.96] And then Jesus says -[3520.96 --> 3522.54] Only one returned -[3522.54 --> 3523.98] To give praise to God -[3523.98 --> 3525.26] Right -[3525.26 --> 3526.50] He is praising -[3526.50 --> 3527.80] And giving thanks -[3527.80 --> 3529.06] At the foot of God -[3529.06 --> 3530.40] Who we see -[3530.40 --> 3531.32] Is named Jesus -[3531.32 --> 3534.56] Jesus is God -[3534.56 --> 3537.18] Now the second thing -[3537.18 --> 3538.06] Out of that -[3538.06 --> 3538.42] Right -[3538.42 --> 3539.38] Is notice -[3539.38 --> 3540.74] What is distinct -[3540.74 --> 3542.84] About this man -[3542.84 --> 3545.64] He is the only one -[3545.64 --> 3546.66] Who comes back -[3546.66 --> 3547.78] To worship God -[3547.78 --> 3549.38] And to thank him -[3549.38 --> 3550.74] Right -[3550.74 --> 3551.56] All of them -[3551.56 --> 3553.60] Were healed physically -[3553.60 --> 3554.38] Right -[3554.38 --> 3555.54] The text tells us -[3555.54 --> 3556.12] Very carefully -[3556.12 --> 3558.52] They were cleansed -[3558.52 --> 3559.98] Now that word -[3559.98 --> 3560.88] Cleansed -[3560.88 --> 3562.18] Is a neat word -[3562.18 --> 3562.88] In Greek -[3562.88 --> 3564.82] The word in Greek -[3564.82 --> 3566.18] Is Josh -[3566.18 --> 3566.70] Is the only one -[3566.70 --> 3567.22] Who's going to care -[3567.22 --> 3567.96] About this right now -[3567.96 --> 3568.76] Is kathorizo -[3568.76 --> 3570.12] Josh is studying -[3570.12 --> 3571.46] Greek in seminary -[3571.46 --> 3571.90] Right now -[3571.90 --> 3572.36] So I was going to -[3572.36 --> 3573.38] Ask him to translate that -[3573.38 --> 3573.84] But I didn't want -[3573.84 --> 3574.70] To put him on the spot -[3574.70 --> 3576.84] Didn't know -[3576.84 --> 3577.28] Yeah see -[3577.28 --> 3577.96] There you go -[3577.96 --> 3579.38] Kakorizo -[3579.38 --> 3581.40] Is a word -[3581.40 --> 3581.44] Is a word -[3581.44 --> 3582.64] That is used -[3582.64 --> 3583.94] It means cleansing -[3583.94 --> 3584.84] Or healing -[3584.84 --> 3585.56] When it's used -[3585.56 --> 3587.16] Of people with leprosy -[3587.16 --> 3588.46] It means to heal -[3588.46 --> 3590.00] Because lepers -[3590.00 --> 3591.84] Are considered unclean -[3591.84 --> 3593.32] By the Levitical law -[3593.32 --> 3594.12] Right -[3594.12 --> 3594.94] The Levitical law -[3594.94 --> 3596.10] Given in the Old Testament -[3596.10 --> 3598.20] Found in Leviticus 13 -[3598.20 --> 3599.14] Verse 45 -[3599.14 --> 3599.86] Numbers 5 -[3599.86 --> 3600.40] Verses 2 -[3600.40 --> 3600.86] And 3 -[3600.86 --> 3603.76] Declares lepers unclean -[3603.76 --> 3605.08] That's why Jesus -[3605.08 --> 3606.84] When he walks to the village -[3606.84 --> 3608.58] Leaves these people outside -[3608.58 --> 3609.96] Because they're not -[3609.96 --> 3610.90] Allowed to be part -[3610.90 --> 3611.78] Of the normal -[3611.78 --> 3612.98] Gathering people -[3612.98 --> 3613.94] That's why -[3613.94 --> 3614.70] Even when Jesus -[3614.70 --> 3615.62] Approaches them -[3615.62 --> 3617.32] They stand at a distance -[3617.32 --> 3618.44] And have to call out -[3618.44 --> 3619.36] In a loud voice -[3619.36 --> 3620.62] Because they can't -[3620.62 --> 3621.24] Get close -[3621.24 --> 3622.48] To Jesus -[3622.48 --> 3624.26] Ceremonial law -[3624.26 --> 3625.40] Forbid there be -[3625.40 --> 3626.54] Inside the village -[3626.54 --> 3627.96] And near others -[3627.96 --> 3629.20] That's also why -[3629.20 --> 3629.88] When Jesus -[3629.88 --> 3631.32] Speaks to them -[3631.32 --> 3631.68] He says -[3631.68 --> 3632.74] Go present yourselves -[3632.74 --> 3633.54] To the priest -[3633.54 --> 3634.78] Right -[3634.78 --> 3635.64] Because the priest -[3635.64 --> 3637.38] Needs to declare them -[3637.38 --> 3637.88] Clean -[3637.88 --> 3638.76] So that they don't -[3638.76 --> 3639.72] Function again -[3639.72 --> 3641.36] In normal society -[3641.36 --> 3643.26] That's the word -[3643.26 --> 3644.04] Catherine Bezo -[3644.04 --> 3645.58] Now Catherine Bezo -[3645.58 --> 3646.54] In English -[3646.54 --> 3647.66] Is also -[3647.66 --> 3648.52] Where we get -[3648.52 --> 3649.08] The word -[3649.08 --> 3650.18] Or the English word -[3650.18 --> 3651.08] Catharsis -[3651.08 --> 3652.76] Or cathartic -[3652.76 --> 3654.90] So here's an interesting -[3654.90 --> 3655.86] Language fact -[3655.86 --> 3656.38] For you -[3656.38 --> 3658.02] Catharsis -[3658.02 --> 3660.02] Entered the English -[3660.02 --> 3660.98] Lexicon -[3660.98 --> 3662.66] As a medical term -[3662.66 --> 3664.36] For purging the body -[3664.36 --> 3666.18] For you young boys -[3666.18 --> 3667.60] Especially the ballast -[3667.60 --> 3670.24] As a way of releasing -[3670.24 --> 3671.20] Unwanted interior -[3671.20 --> 3673.86] Now today -[3673.86 --> 3675.34] Catharsis means something -[3675.34 --> 3676.02] A little different -[3676.02 --> 3676.88] Right -[3676.88 --> 3678.08] We use the word -[3678.08 --> 3678.94] Cathartic -[3678.94 --> 3679.60] When we're talking -[3679.60 --> 3680.18] About releasing -[3680.18 --> 3681.54] Tent of emotions -[3681.54 --> 3683.22] Right -[3683.22 --> 3683.82] To say something -[3683.82 --> 3684.98] Is cathartic -[3684.98 --> 3686.18] It means it's a release -[3686.18 --> 3687.18] It's a letting go -[3687.18 --> 3687.66] Of something -[3687.66 --> 3688.24] That we've been -[3688.24 --> 3689.20] Hanging on to -[3689.20 --> 3690.76] Often in our subconscious -[3690.76 --> 3692.00] Or in our emotional -[3692.00 --> 3692.40] Cells -[3692.40 --> 3695.70] Now of the ten men -[3695.70 --> 3697.10] Who were cleansed -[3697.10 --> 3697.54] Catharic -[3697.54 --> 3699.50] Nine of them -[3699.50 --> 3700.78] Experienced that -[3700.78 --> 3702.88] Only as healing -[3702.88 --> 3704.56] And only as a return -[3704.56 --> 3705.02] To health -[3705.02 --> 3707.02] They experienced -[3707.02 --> 3708.46] Physical healing -[3708.46 --> 3709.94] What's pretty clear -[3709.94 --> 3710.80] From the story -[3710.80 --> 3712.38] Is that the ten men -[3712.38 --> 3713.72] Experienced something -[3713.72 --> 3715.02] More than physical -[3715.02 --> 3715.68] Healing -[3715.68 --> 3716.88] From this Jesus -[3716.88 --> 3717.76] Who is God -[3717.76 --> 3719.78] And yes -[3719.78 --> 3720.94] Very clearly -[3720.94 --> 3722.18] This man has -[3722.18 --> 3722.92] An emotional -[3722.92 --> 3723.88] Reaction -[3723.88 --> 3724.82] He has an emotional -[3724.82 --> 3725.54] Response -[3725.54 --> 3726.14] To Jesus -[3726.14 --> 3726.44] Right -[3726.44 --> 3727.02] Praising -[3727.02 --> 3727.94] And thanking -[3727.94 --> 3729.00] He threw himself -[3729.00 --> 3729.48] Down -[3729.48 --> 3730.64] At the feet of Jesus -[3730.64 --> 3731.30] That ain't just -[3731.30 --> 3732.26] Any old reaction -[3732.26 --> 3734.30] But -[3734.30 --> 3735.86] And this is a big -[3735.86 --> 3736.18] Odd -[3736.18 --> 3736.48] Here -[3736.48 --> 3739.46] Too many people -[3739.46 --> 3740.50] Think -[3740.50 --> 3741.82] Of Jesus -[3741.82 --> 3743.24] And the gospel -[3743.24 --> 3744.68] As providing -[3744.68 --> 3745.62] A sort of -[3745.62 --> 3746.62] Catharsis -[3746.62 --> 3749.28] The gospel -[3749.28 --> 3750.12] Isn't about -[3750.12 --> 3750.66] Giving you -[3750.66 --> 3751.58] Peace of mind -[3751.58 --> 3752.28] Or relieving -[3752.28 --> 3753.22] Your anxiety -[3753.22 --> 3754.82] Now let me be -[3754.82 --> 3755.36] Pretty clear -[3755.36 --> 3755.60] Right -[3755.60 --> 3756.48] Trusting God -[3756.48 --> 3757.50] Might do that -[3757.50 --> 3758.60] Right -[3758.60 --> 3759.84] But your peace of mind -[3759.84 --> 3760.60] Your emotional -[3760.60 --> 3761.24] Catharsis -[3761.24 --> 3762.26] Is not the point -[3762.26 --> 3762.88] Of the gospel -[3762.88 --> 3764.88] Jesus didn't come -[3764.88 --> 3765.34] To give you -[3765.34 --> 3766.10] Peace of mind -[3766.10 --> 3766.78] He came -[3766.78 --> 3767.48] To give you -[3767.48 --> 3768.54] Peace with God -[3768.54 --> 3772.24] Peace with God -[3772.24 --> 3773.82] Only comes -[3773.82 --> 3774.64] When you are -[3774.64 --> 3775.92] Made righteous -[3775.92 --> 3776.72] When you are -[3776.72 --> 3777.64] Made pure -[3777.64 --> 3779.22] From sin -[3779.22 --> 3781.66] Nine men -[3781.66 --> 3782.98] Were cleansed -[3782.98 --> 3783.72] That day -[3783.72 --> 3785.20] But I believe -[3785.20 --> 3785.62] One -[3785.62 --> 3787.16] Got more than that -[3787.16 --> 3789.72] Titus 2 -[3789.72 --> 3790.52] Verse 14 -[3790.52 --> 3790.88] Says -[3790.88 --> 3793.62] Our great God -[3793.62 --> 3794.20] And Savior -[3794.20 --> 3795.16] Jesus Christ -[3795.16 --> 3796.30] Gave himself -[3796.30 --> 3796.98] For us -[3796.98 --> 3798.08] To redeem us -[3798.08 --> 3799.24] From all wickedness -[3799.24 --> 3800.54] And to purify -[3800.54 --> 3801.72] For himself -[3801.72 --> 3802.40] The people -[3802.40 --> 3803.50] That are his -[3803.50 --> 3804.42] Very normal -[3804.42 --> 3805.90] That word -[3805.90 --> 3806.74] Purify -[3806.74 --> 3807.92] Is -[3807.92 --> 3808.72] Capplicism -[3808.72 --> 3810.08] The same -[3810.08 --> 3810.88] Word -[3810.88 --> 3812.54] Shows up again -[3812.54 --> 3813.30] In 1 John -[3813.30 --> 3813.66] 1 -[3813.66 --> 3813.96] 7 -[3813.96 --> 3814.46] 9 -[3814.46 --> 3815.98] The blood -[3815.98 --> 3816.62] Of Jesus -[3816.62 --> 3817.40] His son -[3817.40 --> 3818.94] Purifies us -[3818.94 --> 3819.94] From all sin -[3819.94 --> 3821.10] If we confess -[3821.10 --> 3821.82] Our sins -[3821.82 --> 3823.18] He is faithful -[3823.18 --> 3823.76] And just -[3823.76 --> 3824.60] And will forgive -[3824.60 --> 3825.50] Us our sins -[3825.50 --> 3827.30] And purify us -[3827.30 --> 3828.28] From all -[3828.28 --> 3829.46] Unrighteousness -[3829.46 --> 3832.40] Too many times -[3832.40 --> 3833.16] In the church -[3833.16 --> 3833.64] Today -[3833.64 --> 3834.20] We think -[3834.20 --> 3834.72] That the main -[3834.72 --> 3835.28] Point of the -[3835.28 --> 3835.62] Gospel -[3835.62 --> 3836.54] Is to feel -[3836.54 --> 3837.02] Good -[3837.02 --> 3837.92] Or secure -[3837.92 --> 3838.76] Or happy -[3838.76 --> 3839.52] Or comfortable -[3839.52 --> 3840.52] In this -[3840.52 --> 3841.24] Life -[3841.24 --> 3844.52] But for the -[3844.52 --> 3845.34] True Christian -[3845.34 --> 3846.84] The gospel -[3846.84 --> 3848.04] Is purity -[3848.04 --> 3849.84] Before God -[3849.84 --> 3850.68] The gospel -[3850.68 --> 3851.64] Is peace -[3851.64 --> 3853.10] With God -[3853.10 --> 3855.14] If all -[3855.14 --> 3855.64] You think -[3855.64 --> 3855.90] About -[3855.90 --> 3856.66] Christianity -[3856.66 --> 3858.12] If all -[3858.12 --> 3858.52] You think -[3858.52 --> 3858.98] Christianity -[3858.98 --> 3859.56] Is for -[3859.56 --> 3860.40] Or about -[3860.40 --> 3861.54] Is your -[3861.54 --> 3862.44] Physical healing -[3862.44 --> 3863.58] Or an emotional -[3863.58 --> 3864.52] Catharsis -[3864.52 --> 3865.28] You've missed -[3865.28 --> 3865.76] The message -[3865.76 --> 3866.46] Of Jesus -[3866.46 --> 3868.80] Isaiah the prophet -[3868.80 --> 3869.06] Says -[3869.06 --> 3870.00] Though your sins -[3870.00 --> 3871.12] Are like scarlet -[3871.12 --> 3871.92] They shall be -[3871.92 --> 3873.30] As white as snow -[3873.30 --> 3874.38] Though they are -[3874.38 --> 3875.86] As red as crimson -[3875.86 --> 3876.66] They shall be -[3876.66 --> 3877.92] Like wool -[3877.92 --> 3880.32] There's so many -[3880.32 --> 3881.52] People in the world -[3881.52 --> 3882.28] Today -[3882.28 --> 3883.22] Maybe even for -[3883.22 --> 3883.68] Some of us -[3883.68 --> 3884.38] Sitting here -[3884.38 --> 3885.56] The functional -[3885.56 --> 3886.28] Purpose -[3886.28 --> 3887.42] Of religion -[3887.42 --> 3888.80] That the reason -[3888.80 --> 3889.84] Religion exists -[3889.84 --> 3890.58] In the world -[3890.58 --> 3891.86] Is to make -[3891.86 --> 3892.96] Good people -[3892.96 --> 3893.88] Or to make -[3893.88 --> 3894.62] People a little -[3894.62 --> 3895.16] Bit better -[3895.16 --> 3897.28] And to soothe -[3897.28 --> 3898.56] Our consciences -[3898.56 --> 3899.94] When we feel -[3899.94 --> 3900.34] Bad -[3900.34 --> 3902.90] Gospel Christianity -[3902.90 --> 3903.68] Is not something -[3903.68 --> 3904.70] Different than that -[3904.70 --> 3906.46] Now again -[3906.46 --> 3907.58] Don't hear -[3907.58 --> 3908.08] What I'm not -[3908.08 --> 3908.46] Saying -[3908.46 --> 3909.66] Right -[3909.66 --> 3910.90] Gospel Christianity -[3910.90 --> 3911.94] Produces -[3911.94 --> 3913.58] Good out of us -[3913.58 --> 3914.70] Gospel Christianity -[3914.70 --> 3916.60] Soothes our consciences -[3916.60 --> 3918.80] As we are reconciled to God -[3918.80 --> 3920.16] But the purpose -[3920.16 --> 3921.32] Of the gospel -[3921.32 --> 3922.26] Is to do -[3922.26 --> 3923.28] Precisely -[3923.28 --> 3924.56] What I cannot -[3924.56 --> 3926.66] But need to do -[3926.66 --> 3927.98] The gospel says -[3927.98 --> 3928.58] That Jesus -[3928.58 --> 3929.44] Lived the life -[3929.44 --> 3930.22] I should have lived -[3930.22 --> 3931.32] And done the death -[3931.32 --> 3932.32] That I deserve -[3932.32 --> 3933.12] That Jesus -[3933.12 --> 3934.06] Is the perfect -[3934.06 --> 3935.00] Sacrifice -[3935.00 --> 3936.34] Of atonement -[3936.34 --> 3937.00] That is to say -[3937.00 --> 3938.44] He was perfect -[3938.44 --> 3939.40] In that he was -[3939.40 --> 3941.44] Perfectly obedient -[3941.44 --> 3942.62] And he was perfect -[3942.62 --> 3944.44] In that only he -[3944.44 --> 3945.74] As God -[3945.74 --> 3947.54] Could save humanity -[3947.54 --> 3949.02] By his death -[3949.02 --> 3950.44] In our place -[3950.44 --> 3951.00] That's what -[3951.00 --> 3952.48] Atonement means -[3952.48 --> 3953.62] The gospel is -[3953.62 --> 3955.22] First and foremost -[3955.22 --> 3957.32] The action of God -[3957.32 --> 3958.06] In the world -[3958.06 --> 3959.06] To restore -[3959.06 --> 3960.48] People like you -[3960.48 --> 3961.42] And me -[3961.42 --> 3962.92] In relationship -[3962.92 --> 3964.08] To him -[3964.08 --> 3965.64] A relationship -[3965.64 --> 3966.48] That was broken -[3966.48 --> 3967.68] Because of sin -[3967.68 --> 3968.64] And in a relationship -[3968.64 --> 3969.86] That stays broken -[3969.86 --> 3970.86] Because of our -[3970.86 --> 3972.24] Unloving sin -[3972.24 --> 3972.90] Right -[3972.90 --> 3974.46] Over and over -[3974.46 --> 3975.50] And over again -[3975.50 --> 3976.44] The Bible makes it -[3976.44 --> 3977.52] Abundantly clear -[3977.52 --> 3979.20] How our sin need -[3979.20 --> 3980.18] Is greater -[3980.18 --> 3981.08] Than any of our -[3981.08 --> 3981.88] Physical needs -[3981.88 --> 3982.88] Any of our -[3982.88 --> 3983.96] Emotional needs -[3983.96 --> 3985.98] Especially -[3985.98 --> 3987.76] In a culture -[3987.76 --> 3989.52] That has adopted -[3989.52 --> 3990.72] Their values -[3990.72 --> 3991.46] Like ours -[3991.46 --> 3992.36] That has adopted -[3992.36 --> 3993.74] Christian values -[3993.74 --> 3994.38] And virtues -[3994.38 --> 3995.64] While disconnecting -[3995.64 --> 3996.42] Them from a biblical -[3996.42 --> 3996.90] Basis -[3996.90 --> 3997.88] While removing them -[3997.88 --> 3999.04] From the character -[3999.04 --> 4000.24] And being of God -[4000.24 --> 4000.74] Right -[4000.74 --> 4002.72] We live in a time -[4002.72 --> 4003.58] And place -[4003.58 --> 4004.76] That assumes -[4004.76 --> 4005.66] A relative -[4005.66 --> 4007.26] Goodness of people -[4007.26 --> 4009.76] And so minimizes -[4009.76 --> 4011.28] The perversity -[4011.28 --> 4012.38] Of sin -[4012.38 --> 4013.68] And its effect -[4013.68 --> 4014.74] In our life -[4014.74 --> 4016.60] Simply put -[4016.60 --> 4017.20] Right -[4017.20 --> 4018.38] We don't believe -[4018.38 --> 4019.04] That sin -[4019.04 --> 4019.56] Or -[4019.56 --> 4021.00] To put it more strongly -[4021.00 --> 4021.90] We don't believe -[4021.90 --> 4022.78] That our relationship -[4022.78 --> 4023.60] To God -[4023.60 --> 4024.20] Which is broken -[4024.20 --> 4024.84] By sin -[4024.84 --> 4026.94] Is our greatest need -[4026.94 --> 4027.78] Anymore -[4027.78 --> 4029.52] Instead -[4029.52 --> 4031.00] We look for -[4031.00 --> 4031.78] Physical healing -[4031.78 --> 4033.16] We look for -[4033.16 --> 4034.50] Therapeutic healing -[4034.50 --> 4035.02] We look for -[4035.02 --> 4035.84] Cathartic -[4035.84 --> 4036.86] Release -[4036.86 --> 4040.42] But the gospel -[4040.42 --> 4041.98] And the true -[4041.98 --> 4042.52] Christian -[4042.52 --> 4043.66] Look even -[4043.66 --> 4044.64] Even deeper -[4044.64 --> 4046.18] Than those things -[4046.18 --> 4048.56] Physical healing -[4048.56 --> 4049.12] Is good -[4049.12 --> 4050.86] Emotional healing -[4050.86 --> 4051.52] Is good -[4051.52 --> 4053.54] Reconciliation -[4053.54 --> 4054.14] To God -[4054.14 --> 4055.10] Is even -[4055.10 --> 4055.88] Better -[4055.88 --> 4058.94] At the end -[4058.94 --> 4059.78] Of this exchange -[4059.78 --> 4061.46] Jesus says -[4061.46 --> 4062.34] To the man -[4062.34 --> 4063.00] Rise -[4063.00 --> 4063.62] And go -[4063.62 --> 4064.90] For your faith -[4064.90 --> 4066.06] Has made you well -[4066.06 --> 4067.66] Now -[4067.66 --> 4069.24] To be clear -[4069.24 --> 4072.48] This can't mean -[4072.48 --> 4074.04] That his faith -[4074.04 --> 4075.18] Healed him -[4075.18 --> 4076.70] Okay -[4076.70 --> 4077.60] This can't mean -[4077.60 --> 4078.32] That his faith -[4078.32 --> 4079.28] Healed him -[4079.28 --> 4080.26] One -[4080.26 --> 4081.60] He was healed -[4081.60 --> 4082.92] Before displaying -[4082.92 --> 4083.98] Any acts of faith -[4083.98 --> 4085.88] Two -[4085.88 --> 4087.60] The other nine -[4087.60 --> 4088.34] Were also -[4088.34 --> 4089.14] Cleansed -[4089.14 --> 4090.68] And they didn't -[4090.68 --> 4091.56] Return to -[4091.56 --> 4092.56] Praise and -[4092.56 --> 4093.50] Thank Jesus -[4093.50 --> 4094.92] And so -[4094.92 --> 4096.08] Even if -[4096.08 --> 4096.80] Like what some -[4096.80 --> 4097.52] People say -[4097.52 --> 4098.26] His -[4098.26 --> 4099.64] Faith -[4099.64 --> 4102.82] Has healed him -[4102.82 --> 4103.40] Even if -[4103.40 --> 4104.06] That is -[4104.06 --> 4105.32] In response -[4105.32 --> 4106.00] To an -[4106.00 --> 4107.02] Anticipated -[4107.02 --> 4107.88] Faithfulness -[4107.88 --> 4108.74] That is known -[4108.74 --> 4109.40] By God -[4109.40 --> 4110.48] Before the -[4110.48 --> 4111.08] Offering -[4111.08 --> 4112.16] And the other -[4112.16 --> 4112.58] Nine -[4112.58 --> 4113.26] Who didn't -[4113.26 --> 4113.94] Respond -[4113.94 --> 4114.62] In faith -[4114.62 --> 4115.22] Are still -[4115.22 --> 4115.64] Healed -[4115.64 --> 4115.98] And so -[4115.98 --> 4116.18] Again -[4116.18 --> 4116.84] That just proves -[4116.84 --> 4117.46] That idea -[4117.46 --> 4118.42] False -[4118.42 --> 4119.64] Instead -[4119.64 --> 4121.08] I think -[4121.08 --> 4121.52] Jesus -[4121.52 --> 4122.42] Is looking -[4122.42 --> 4122.94] At the -[4122.94 --> 4123.40] Bigger -[4123.40 --> 4124.02] Picture -[4124.02 --> 4124.68] He's looking -[4124.68 --> 4125.62] Deeper -[4125.62 --> 4126.22] And at a -[4126.22 --> 4126.66] Fuller -[4126.66 --> 4127.16] Gospel -[4127.16 --> 4128.08] Than the -[4128.08 --> 4128.54] Idea -[4128.54 --> 4129.28] That his -[4129.28 --> 4129.84] Faith -[4129.84 --> 4130.44] Healed -[4130.44 --> 4130.68] His -[4130.68 --> 4131.06] Physical -[4131.06 --> 4131.50] Needs -[4131.50 --> 4133.10] In fact -[4133.10 --> 4133.64] Again -[4133.64 --> 4134.14] The word -[4134.14 --> 4135.18] Spelled -[4135.18 --> 4135.50] This out -[4135.50 --> 4135.88] The word -[4135.88 --> 4136.72] Translated -[4136.72 --> 4137.60] May you -[4137.60 --> 4138.02] Well -[4138.02 --> 4139.98] In this -[4139.98 --> 4141.14] Text -[4141.14 --> 4142.06] Is a -[4142.06 --> 4143.22] Particular -[4143.22 --> 4143.82] Form -[4143.82 --> 4144.32] Of the -[4144.32 --> 4144.60] Greek -[4144.60 --> 4144.90] Word -[4144.90 --> 4145.62] Sozo -[4145.62 --> 4146.36] Which means -[4146.36 --> 4146.96] To save -[4146.96 --> 4148.00] The root -[4148.00 --> 4148.92] Is used -[4148.92 --> 4149.58] For instance -[4149.58 --> 4150.14] In Acts -[4150.14 --> 4150.64] 4 -[4150.64 --> 4151.76] Verse 12 -[4151.76 --> 4152.50] By Peter -[4152.50 --> 4152.98] When he -[4152.98 --> 4153.52] Preaches -[4153.52 --> 4154.92] Salvation -[4154.92 --> 4155.62] Is found -[4155.62 --> 4156.32] In no one -[4156.32 --> 4156.68] Else -[4156.68 --> 4157.34] For there's -[4157.34 --> 4157.72] No other -[4157.72 --> 4158.04] Name -[4158.04 --> 4158.60] Under heaven -[4158.60 --> 4159.14] Given to -[4159.14 --> 4159.52] Mankind -[4159.52 --> 4160.48] By which -[4160.48 --> 4161.34] We must -[4161.34 --> 4161.94] Be -[4161.94 --> 4164.02] Saved -[4164.02 --> 4165.06] The translator -[4165.06 --> 4165.40] Says -[4165.40 --> 4166.30] The NIP -[4166.30 --> 4167.72] Make this -[4167.72 --> 4168.16] Clear -[4168.16 --> 4168.94] For instance -[4168.94 --> 4169.44] In Luke -[4169.44 --> 4170.16] 7 -[4170.16 --> 4171.10] Verse 50 -[4171.10 --> 4172.28] Where Jesus -[4172.28 --> 4172.94] Says -[4172.94 --> 4173.68] To the woman -[4173.68 --> 4174.96] Who was -[4174.96 --> 4175.60] Healed -[4175.60 --> 4176.22] Just by -[4176.22 --> 4176.96] Reaching out -[4176.96 --> 4177.44] And touching -[4177.44 --> 4178.12] His road -[4178.12 --> 4179.16] He says -[4179.16 --> 4179.98] Your faith -[4179.98 --> 4181.24] Has saved -[4181.24 --> 4181.62] You -[4181.62 --> 4184.06] Luke -[4184.06 --> 4184.72] 50 -[4184.72 --> 4185.90] Or 7 -[4185.90 --> 4186.94] Verse 50 -[4186.94 --> 4187.66] And Luke -[4187.66 --> 4188.26] 17 -[4188.26 --> 4188.82] 19 -[4188.82 --> 4190.16] Are exactly -[4190.16 --> 4190.70] The same -[4190.70 --> 4191.40] Sentence in -[4191.40 --> 4191.66] Greek -[4191.66 --> 4193.10] Korston -[4193.10 --> 4195.90] Your faith has saved you. -[4196.00 --> 4203.84] And I think the point that Jesus is showing is just how big the gospel is for this man. -[4204.44 --> 4204.56] Right? -[4204.66 --> 4207.60] Ten were healed, but that's not the gospel. -[4208.80 --> 4213.30] One had an emotional response, but catharsis isn't the gospel either. -[4213.92 --> 4221.18] Instead, faith and salvation go hand in love that the man returns to worship and give thanks -[4221.18 --> 4224.56] as an invitation of being saved. -[4225.82 --> 4228.94] Darrell Loffel says, so succinctly, he says, -[4229.28 --> 4235.70] the deliverance Jesus affirms here is greater than the healing the man has experienced. -[4237.60 --> 4243.42] The healing points to a greater healing for this man. -[4244.14 --> 4247.02] A purifying from all unrighteousness. -[4247.02 --> 4254.58] Jesus is purifying for himself a people who belong to him as his own. -[4255.96 --> 4256.96] Ten were healed. -[4258.12 --> 4259.88] One was purified. -[4260.16 --> 4261.10] Ten were healed. -[4261.60 --> 4265.00] One praised God and thanked Jesus. -[4266.34 --> 4274.28] Thanksgiving isn't distinctly Christian, but giving thanks to God in worship is distinctive -[4274.28 --> 4276.92] of the true Christian. -[4279.80 --> 4287.26] And you know, that idea that giving thanks to God in worship is a distinctive of the true -[4287.26 --> 4287.64] Christian. -[4287.78 --> 4290.30] That idea got me wondering. -[4292.02 --> 4299.24] If Thanksgiving is a distinctive of the Christian, is that what Christians in the world today are -[4299.24 --> 4299.88] known for? -[4299.88 --> 4303.78] Is that how you are known at work? -[4305.26 --> 4309.76] And on your soccer team, does your coach think of you as the thankful one? -[4311.30 --> 4314.76] How are Christians known in the world today? -[4316.32 --> 4322.66] You know, in our increasingly post-Christian age, we've all heard, I've even talked about, -[4322.66 --> 4327.44] how Christians are identified and treated with suspicion. -[4328.52 --> 4328.68] Right? -[4328.74 --> 4332.38] And how sometimes people think that we are, what's wrong with the world? -[4333.38 --> 4338.56] A couple weeks ago, we had a leadership training event that I got to speak on the main stage -[4338.56 --> 4338.88] for. -[4339.50 --> 4342.68] We talked about just this reality that you were finding yourself in. -[4342.68 --> 4347.24] And a gentleman who goes to one of the Christian Reformed churches in the area, who works for -[4347.24 --> 4351.04] the federal government, came up to me afterwards and said, you are bang on. -[4351.50 --> 4358.28] There is a place for everyone in this society of ours except for the believing Christian. -[4361.58 --> 4361.82] Right? -[4361.82 --> 4367.40] Sometimes people think that we, as Christians, are what's wrong with the world. -[4367.86 --> 4367.98] Right? -[4368.28 --> 4373.14] Christians, especially if you are a conservative Christian, are often told that we're on the -[4373.14 --> 4374.06] wrong side of history. -[4375.60 --> 4375.72] Right? -[4375.72 --> 4382.26] And let's be abundantly clear and transparent because things like abuse scandals or sexual -[4382.26 --> 4383.38] abuse cover-up. -[4383.70 --> 4383.86] Right? -[4384.00 --> 4385.44] It's prevalent in the church. -[4385.70 --> 4390.28] There's a history of racism in things like residential schools or in child slavery or in -[4390.28 --> 4390.70] segregation. -[4391.40 --> 4391.56] Right? -[4391.64 --> 4394.28] All of these things have been done by Christians. -[4394.28 --> 4399.84] And some of them in our history even have Christians at the helm setting the lead for them, -[4399.90 --> 4402.18] setting the course of history in a particular era. -[4402.18 --> 4408.04] And let me be abundantly clear, this isn't just the past, but continues in the present. -[4410.44 --> 4413.32] But it's also not just Christians. -[4414.48 --> 4419.60] Now I will say that it's more grievous when it isn't Christian because we ought to know better -[4419.60 --> 4423.04] and by the Holy Spirit we can actually do better. -[4424.26 --> 4425.94] And so we confess our sins. -[4429.66 --> 4432.08] But this is where my thinking is being born. -[4432.18 --> 4433.36] Got a little bit more interesting. -[4434.10 --> 4440.10] Because if that's the sort of 30,000 foot view of Christians in our post-Christian age, -[4440.56 --> 4443.98] what is the ground level view here in Murray? -[4444.98 --> 4447.90] What's the ground level view here in Langley? -[4448.66 --> 4448.88] Right? -[4448.94 --> 4451.18] That's the thing that interested me this week. -[4451.18 --> 4457.72] And so I put together a little survey of five questions. -[4458.64 --> 4463.10] And I went up to the square on top of the hill on Thursday afternoon. -[4463.68 --> 4468.98] And I walked around and I asked people what they thought of Christians in the world today. -[4468.98 --> 4473.12] So I asked them these five questions. -[4473.36 --> 4475.30] When you hear the word Christian, what do you think? -[4476.90 --> 4480.04] When you think the history of Christianity in Canada, what comes to mind? -[4481.62 --> 4482.00] Right? -[4482.08 --> 4483.80] When you hear that in Jesus, what do you think? -[4484.82 --> 4487.00] When you hear the word church, what comes to mind? -[4487.00 --> 4493.30] And then the last question I asked, are Christians a positive force for good in the world? -[4494.48 --> 4500.30] And I've got to tell you, I went up there expecting to hear things like bigotry, -[4501.18 --> 4507.14] expecting to hear things like racist, expecting to hear things like backwards or traditional -[4507.14 --> 4510.20] or slow, whatever the case may be. -[4510.20 --> 4515.38] I went up there expecting to not get in a fight because I told myself I would take a posture -[4515.38 --> 4520.00] of just asking questions and walking away, but to leave feeling kind of bad afterwards. -[4521.58 --> 4522.76] Can I tell you that didn't happen? -[4525.52 --> 4525.74] Right? -[4525.78 --> 4531.40] So for instance, when I asked the question, what do you hear when you hear the word Christian, -[4531.92 --> 4532.64] what do you think? -[4534.02 --> 4536.60] People said things like, I don't know, church? -[4537.74 --> 4538.18] God? -[4539.72 --> 4540.16] Hope? -[4540.86 --> 4541.30] Jesus? -[4542.50 --> 4545.08] One person said, all religions are the same. -[4545.26 --> 4545.44] Can you? -[4547.26 --> 4548.14] Think of heaven? -[4548.98 --> 4550.62] One person even said, my religion? -[4554.04 --> 4555.32] That was an awful one. -[4557.50 --> 4561.56] When I asked the question, what do you think about the history of Christianity in Canada -[4561.56 --> 4562.90] and what comes to mind? -[4563.64 --> 4565.08] Or what do you think about the history of Christianity? -[4565.30 --> 4567.70] When do you think about the history of Christianity and what comes to mind? -[4567.70 --> 4571.48] Again, I was expecting to hear some pretty awful things. -[4572.58 --> 4573.18] Right? -[4573.18 --> 4575.98] Maybe because I lived in the midst of hearing those things. -[4575.98 --> 4577.76] But here's what people said. -[4577.82 --> 4579.74] They said, nothing. -[4583.74 --> 4583.98] Religion? -[4584.38 --> 4585.26] Another religion? -[4585.50 --> 4585.74] Sorry. -[4586.84 --> 4588.10] One of them said Christmas. -[4588.10 --> 4595.90] Now, one person did say, priests, and they were talking about the sex abuse and scandal. -[4597.08 --> 4600.70] But one person also said explicitly, not negative things. -[4600.70 --> 4603.20] I try not to believe the negative things. -[4605.88 --> 4609.52] I asked the question, when you hear the name of Jesus, what do you think? -[4610.80 --> 4612.82] One person said, why? -[4612.82 --> 4621.00] Another person said, and this is more characteristic, honestly, not much. -[4623.78 --> 4626.46] So when you hear the word church, what comes to mind? -[4627.68 --> 4629.04] One person said, glory? -[4630.82 --> 4631.48] I said, yeah. -[4632.66 --> 4633.76] Unless you come to our church. -[4633.76 --> 4639.76] One person said, I don't know how to explain it. -[4641.82 --> 4648.06] One man I talked to said, the first word that comes to mind when I hear the word church is institutional zoning. -[4649.94 --> 4651.04] So are you a civil engineer? -[4651.14 --> 4651.54] He was gay. -[4651.54 --> 4660.20] What I asked the last question, are Christians a positive force in the world? -[4662.50 --> 4666.30] The answers were split right down the middle. -[4668.68 --> 4680.02] Between yes, and sometimes, maybe, overall yes, but also not so good. -[4681.54 --> 4683.10] There was no no's. -[4684.34 --> 4685.74] There was no absence and no's. -[4689.10 --> 4693.72] Now, the reason I think this is important, a number of things that I think are important, -[4693.88 --> 4702.42] but one of them is, I went through the expectation of getting into a fight or appearing on the negative things. -[4702.72 --> 4705.64] And I'm not denying that there are people in the world who treat those things. -[4706.06 --> 4710.84] I'm not denying that in some places in the world, that's probably a majority opinion. -[4711.54 --> 4717.04] But for all y'all who are scared to talk to your neighbors and unbelieving friends about Christianity, -[4717.18 --> 4719.26] because that's what you hear, hear this. -[4721.04 --> 4721.70] Hear this. -[4724.68 --> 4729.34] Second, what I want us to hear out of this, -[4729.34 --> 4734.72] is actually how boring these answers are. -[4737.72 --> 4739.96] And I hope that's a conviction to you. -[4741.56 --> 4747.56] Because if being thankful is a distinctive of a true Christian, -[4747.56 --> 4753.52] people are politely apathetic towards us, -[4755.20 --> 4760.80] is there something missing from our thanksgiving in the world and how he expresses it? -[4761.84 --> 4763.80] If this is what people think of us, -[4763.86 --> 4765.64] because Kevin and I were reflecting on this, -[4765.70 --> 4766.68] and he came up with the phrase, -[4766.78 --> 4767.54] polite apathy. -[4768.38 --> 4770.04] If this is how people think of us, -[4770.04 --> 4773.14] what can we do differently? -[4776.58 --> 4778.24] In the context of our story, -[4779.26 --> 4783.18] nine people received the cleansing, -[4783.82 --> 4785.08] and they went on their way. -[4785.88 --> 4789.02] Nine people received the healing from Jesus, -[4789.18 --> 4789.80] and they're like, great. -[4791.52 --> 4792.82] Man, move on. -[4794.06 --> 4796.30] Nine people received that healing from Jesus, -[4796.42 --> 4797.98] and they're like, sure, thanks. -[4797.98 --> 4799.50] Now, whatever. -[4803.34 --> 4807.32] I suggest that the vast majority of people in our circles -[4807.32 --> 4811.96] are kind of like Jesus overall, -[4812.20 --> 4813.46] but man. -[4814.20 --> 4817.50] But not much, honestly, kind of people. -[4819.52 --> 4824.00] Nine people have this polite attitude. -[4824.00 --> 4827.16] I said a couple weeks ago, -[4827.74 --> 4830.14] in one of our kick-off sermons, -[4830.66 --> 4834.34] a quote from the epistle to Dionysus, -[4835.14 --> 4837.36] from the second century AD, -[4837.90 --> 4839.44] where he says, -[4840.00 --> 4842.24] as the soul is to the body, -[4842.90 --> 4845.24] Christians are to the city. -[4845.24 --> 4851.40] If this is what people in our city think of Christians, -[4852.20 --> 4854.48] what's the state of our soul -[4854.48 --> 4855.46] being expressed? -[4858.96 --> 4861.60] In our Thanksgiving liturgy earlier in the service, -[4862.28 --> 4866.72] we call this a war for gratitude. -[4866.72 --> 4872.76] Thanksgiving is a battle for the soul of the church. -[4874.08 --> 4878.84] We have a chance to express our deep gratitude to God, -[4878.92 --> 4883.32] and to be known as the people of Thanksgiving. -[4883.32 --> 4888.10] It's not as scary as you might think it is, -[4889.06 --> 4892.36] but it is as awesome as you're dreaming about it. -[4893.40 --> 4895.34] That is the gospel. -[4896.30 --> 4899.04] And that is why we give thanks. -[4899.62 --> 4902.08] When we come to this table in just a moment, -[4902.24 --> 4906.72] we are here at the Thanksgiving feast of the King, -[4906.72 --> 4911.24] who meets us in this moment and at this place, -[4911.24 --> 4915.48] so that our Thanksgiving might be experienced -[4915.48 --> 4918.60] in something that we can taste and see. -[4919.00 --> 4923.24] We taste and see that the Lord is good. -[4923.40 --> 4928.94] We come to this table because He first came to us. -[4929.68 --> 4931.70] And so as you come to this table today, -[4931.84 --> 4935.06] come with hearts full of thanksgiving -[4935.06 --> 4937.68] for what He has done and in both. -[4939.12 --> 4941.04] And be the soul of the city, -[4941.78 --> 4944.60] giving thanks to God for who He is. -[4945.18 --> 4945.44] Amen? -[4946.34 --> 4947.40] Let's pray together. -[4952.18 --> 4956.70] Lord our God, we thank You for leading us here. -[4957.94 --> 4960.00] We thank You for who You are -[4960.00 --> 4962.34] and for what You've done in Jesus Christ. -[4962.34 --> 4965.24] We thank You for the countless blessings -[4965.24 --> 4968.32] that You have bestowed on us. -[4968.50 --> 4971.48] One of them living here in Murrayville, -[4971.60 --> 4975.36] in Langley, in this region together. -[4977.40 --> 4979.86] We thank You for this church family -[4979.86 --> 4982.24] that now goes with You -[4982.24 --> 4985.56] to proclaim Your kingdom come and Your kingdom come. -[4985.56 --> 4991.56] May we be a people distinctly Christian -[4991.56 --> 4994.18] in our thanksgiving. -[4996.32 --> 4999.40] May we overcome a life fantasy -[4999.40 --> 5004.60] with our joy and worship of You. -[5005.44 --> 5007.94] In Your name we pray, Lord Jesus. -[5008.78 --> 5009.22] Amen. -[5009.22 --> 5009.30] Amen. -[5009.30 --> 5010.64] Amen. -[5010.64 --> 5010.66] Amen. -[5010.66 --> 5012.52] Amen. -[5012.52 --> 5012.58] Amen. -[5012.58 --> 5012.60] Amen. -[5012.60 --> 5012.66] Amen. -[5012.66 --> 5012.70] Amen. -[5015.56 --> 5018.12] Amen. -[5021.08 --> 5022.60] We come to the table. -[5022.92 --> 5028.28] We will, of course, move through a liturgy for us -[5028.28 --> 5030.78] and invite you to speak the words -[5030.78 --> 5033.64] that are given to you on the screen behind. -[5033.78 --> 5035.78] As we come to the table, -[5035.94 --> 5038.48] we come here to meet Jesus -[5038.48 --> 5040.30] and be met by Him. -[5040.38 --> 5043.30] We come here as family together, -[5043.30 --> 5047.14] brothers and sisters sharing in this table -[5047.14 --> 5051.46] so that our faith might be nourished and we might be sent -[5051.46 --> 5055.50] out in faith together. We come to this table -[5055.50 --> 5059.32] and we pray and we say together, lift -[5059.32 --> 5063.06] up your hearts. We lift up to the Lord. -[5063.58 --> 5067.24] Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right -[5067.24 --> 5069.78] for us to give thanks. Let's pray. -[5069.78 --> 5073.78] With joy we praise -[5073.78 --> 5076.78] and thank you, gracious God. -[5077.66 --> 5081.82] For you have created heaven and earth and have made us in your image -[5081.82 --> 5085.96] and you have kept covenant with us even when we fell into sin. -[5087.12 --> 5089.66] We give you thanks and perhaps -[5089.66 --> 5093.82] today especially but every day we give you thanks for Jesus -[5093.82 --> 5097.50] Christ who by his life, death and resurrection opened -[5097.50 --> 5100.44] to us the way of everlasting life. -[5101.44 --> 5101.66] Amen. -[5101.66 --> 5109.82] Jesus, before he suffered, gave us this memorial of his sacrifice -[5109.82 --> 5112.44] until he comes again. -[5113.28 --> 5117.64] The Lord Jesus, on the night that he was betrayed, took bread -[5117.64 --> 5121.58] and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, -[5121.94 --> 5124.86] this is my body which is for you. -[5125.36 --> 5127.98] Do this in remembrance of me. -[5127.98 --> 5132.16] And in the same way, he took the cup -[5132.16 --> 5136.26] after supper, saying, this cup is the new covenant -[5136.26 --> 5137.92] in my heart. -[5138.66 --> 5140.76] Do this whenever you drink -[5140.76 --> 5143.04] in remembrance of me. -[5144.12 --> 5145.94] For whenever you eat this bread -[5145.94 --> 5147.64] and drink this cup, -[5147.78 --> 5149.50] you proclaim the Lord's death -[5149.50 --> 5152.42] until he comes again. -[5152.42 --> 5157.64] This, then, is the mystery of our faith. -[5159.20 --> 5161.80] Your death, O Christ, be your lame. -[5162.42 --> 5165.06] Your resurrection, be a turn of joy. -[5165.80 --> 5167.96] Your coming, be a way of hope. -[5168.70 --> 5170.90] Glory be to you, Lord Jesus. -[5172.48 --> 5177.58] Church, the Lord has prepared his table for all who love him -[5177.58 --> 5180.42] and who trust in him alone for their salvation. -[5180.70 --> 5184.36] And so, come to this Thanksgiving table. -[5184.56 --> 5186.06] You who have much faith -[5186.06 --> 5189.02] and you who would like to have more. -[5189.36 --> 5191.44] Come to this Thanksgiving table. -[5191.60 --> 5193.90] You who have been to the sacrament often -[5193.90 --> 5197.14] and you who have not been in a long time. -[5197.50 --> 5199.16] Come to this Thanksgiving table. -[5199.50 --> 5201.62] You who have tried to follow Jesus -[5201.62 --> 5203.58] and you who have failed. -[5203.76 --> 5204.96] Come to this table -[5204.96 --> 5208.26] because Jesus Christ is raised -[5208.26 --> 5211.12] and it is him we praise. -[5211.82 --> 5212.24] Come. -[5212.52 --> 5214.18] If you are here with us -[5214.18 --> 5216.08] or if you are at home and online, -[5216.52 --> 5216.82] come. -[5217.00 --> 5220.60] It is Christ himself who leads us here. -[5221.34 --> 5222.40] The gifts of God -[5222.40 --> 5224.58] for the people of God. -[5225.86 --> 5227.68] As we come to this table here -[5227.68 --> 5229.22] at Emmanuel Church, -[5229.22 --> 5232.80] we do so gathering around in circles. -[5233.16 --> 5234.76] And so, there are elders -[5234.76 --> 5236.02] who will act as ushers. -[5236.18 --> 5238.00] They will indicate when your row -[5238.00 --> 5239.42] is to come forward -[5239.42 --> 5241.30] and that you gather in a circle. -[5242.00 --> 5244.50] We will pass the bread around -[5244.50 --> 5246.42] and the juice around. -[5246.64 --> 5248.00] And as you pass the bread, -[5248.14 --> 5250.42] we encourage you to say to the person, -[5250.96 --> 5252.86] the body of Christ given for you. -[5252.86 --> 5254.46] And as you pass the juice, -[5254.58 --> 5258.00] you say the blood of Christ shed for you. -[5259.22 --> 5260.92] As we participate together, -[5261.06 --> 5262.84] I invite the first group -[5262.84 --> 5265.40] to be the worship volunteers -[5265.40 --> 5267.46] and those who are ushering -[5267.46 --> 5268.24] and coming forward -[5268.24 --> 5269.82] so that they can be served -[5269.82 --> 5271.44] and then they will play some music -[5271.44 --> 5273.16] and sing along to -[5273.16 --> 5274.66] as you wait for your turn -[5274.66 --> 5275.50] to come to the front. -[5275.50 --> 5277.02] If you are here -[5277.02 --> 5278.74] and you would like to be prayed over -[5278.74 --> 5279.66] or prayed with, -[5280.16 --> 5281.76] either before coming to the table -[5281.76 --> 5283.60] or in the space of coming to the table, -[5283.74 --> 5284.90] there are people at the back -[5284.90 --> 5286.88] who have name tags on, -[5287.06 --> 5288.48] yellow squares on them. -[5288.76 --> 5289.70] They'd love to meet you -[5289.70 --> 5291.72] and pray with you as we go through. -[5291.96 --> 5293.50] I invite the worship leaders -[5293.50 --> 5294.56] and volunteers out there -[5294.56 --> 5295.42] to run this time. -[5295.42 --> 5325.40] Thank you. -[5325.42 --> 5355.40] Thank you. -[5355.42 --> 5361.38] thanks, -[5361.38 --> 5367.56] eat and remember -[5367.56 --> 5383.72] I need to add a question -[5383.72 --> 5389.10] I need to add a question -[5389.10 --> 5419.08] I need to add a question -[5419.10 --> 5449.08] I need to add a question -[5449.10 --> 5479.08] I need to add a question -[5479.10 --> 5509.08] I need to add a question -[5509.10 --> 5511.10] I need to add a question -[5511.10 --> 5515.10] I need to add a question -[5515.10 --> 5517.10] I need to add a question -[5517.10 --> 5547.10] -[5547.10 --> 5577.10] -[5577.10 --> 5585.10] I need to add a question -[5585.10 --> 5615.10] -[5615.10 --> 5645.10] -[5645.10 --> 5653.10] I need to add a question -[5653.10 --> 5683.10] -[5683.10 --> 5713.10] -[5713.10 --> 5743.10] -[5743.10 --> 5751.10] I need to add a question -[5751.10 --> 5759.10] I need to add a question -[5759.10 --> 5767.10] Jesus, thank you -[5767.10 --> 5797.10] -[5797.10 --> 5827.10] -[5827.10 --> 5857.10] -[5857.10 --> 5887.10] -[5887.10 --> 5917.10] -[5917.10 --> 5947.10] -[5947.10 --> 5977.10] -[5977.10 --> 5985.10] Jesus, thank you -[5985.10 --> 5995.10] Jesus, thank you -[5995.10 --> 5997.10] Jesus, thank you -[5997.10 --> 5999.10] we praise your name -[6027.10 --> 6029.10] see him -[6029.10 --> 6031.10] see him there -[6031.10 --> 6035.10] the great I am -[6035.10 --> 6039.10] the crown of thorns -[6039.10 --> 6043.10] upon his head -[6043.10 --> 6045.10] the Father's heart -[6045.10 --> 6047.10] the Lord -[6047.10 --> 6051.10] displayed for us -[6051.10 --> 6053.10] oh God -[6053.10 --> 6057.10] we thank you for the cross -[6057.10 --> 6063.10] lift it up -[6063.10 --> 6065.10] on Calvary -[6065.10 --> 6067.10] on Calvary still -[6067.10 --> 6071.10] we curse your name -[6071.10 --> 6073.10] and even still -[6073.10 --> 6075.10] and even still -[6075.10 --> 6077.10] you bore our shame -[6077.10 --> 6081.10] and paid the cost -[6081.10 --> 6083.10] oh God -[6083.10 --> 6087.10] we thank you for the cross -[6087.10 --> 6093.10] me -[6093.10 --> 6097.10] the influence -[6097.10 --> 6115.10] of Christ -[6115.10 --> 6122.20] Endless hallelujahs to your holy name. -[6122.54 --> 6127.12] Jesus, you will reign forevermore. -[6127.56 --> 6132.10] The victory is yours. -[6134.10 --> 6144.10] Offer us this sacrifice for every sin. -[6145.10 --> 6147.94] Our Savior died. -[6147.94 --> 6154.72] The Lord of life can't be contained. -[6155.62 --> 6160.58] Our God has risen from the grave. -[6161.94 --> 6168.74] Our God has risen from the grave. -[6168.74 --> 6171.58] The Lord of life can't be contained. -[6171.58 --> 6175.42] Behold the Lamb. -[6175.82 --> 6181.98] The story of redemption written on His hands. -[6182.64 --> 6186.58] Jesus, you will reign forevermore. -[6187.10 --> 6190.42] The victory is yours. -[6190.42 --> 6194.42] We sing your praise. -[6195.78 --> 6201.44] Endless hallelujahs to your holy name. -[6202.06 --> 6205.42] Jesus, you will reign forevermore. -[6206.42 --> 6210.26] The victory is yours. -[6210.26 --> 6224.02] When the age of death is done, we'll see your face. -[6224.10 --> 6234.26] Bright as the sun will bow before the King of kings. -[6234.26 --> 6241.98] Oh God, forever we will sing. -[6245.98 --> 6249.88] Behold the Lamb. -[6250.10 --> 6256.94] The story of redemption written on His hands. -[6256.94 --> 6261.94] Jesus, you will reign forevermore. -[6261.94 --> 6266.94] The victory is yours. -[6266.94 --> 6270.28] Behold the Lamb. -[6270.28 --> 6277.00] The story of redemption written on His hands. -[6277.00 --> 6281.82] Jesus, you will reign forevermore. -[6281.82 --> 6283.82] The victory is yours. -[6283.82 --> 6285.82] The victory is yours. -[6285.82 --> 6286.82] The victory is yours. -[6286.82 --> 6290.28] We sing your praise. -[6291.04 --> 6296.82] Endless hallelujahs to your holy name. -[6296.82 --> 6300.82] Jesus, you will reign forevermore. -[6301.82 --> 6305.00] The victory is yours. -[6305.00 --> 6308.14] You will reign forevermore. -[6308.14 --> 6310.14] The victory is yours. -[6310.14 --> 6311.14] The victory is yours. -[6311.14 --> 6314.14] Jesus reigns forevermore. -[6314.14 --> 6315.14] The victory is yours. -[6315.14 --> 6320.14] The victory is yours. -[6338.14 --> 6340.14] God, I Counselor, and He Counselor. -[6340.14 --> 6341.14] Amen. -[6341.14 --> 6342.14] Amen. -[6342.14 --> 6342.18] Amen. -[6343.14 --> 6344.14] Amen. -[6352.14 --> 6353.14] Amen. -[6354.14 --> 6355.90] Amen. -[6355.90 --> 6357.28] Amen. -[6358.14 --> 6359.14] Amen. -[6365.82 --> 6367.54] Amen. -[6367.54 --> 6379.84] There is a Redeemer, Jesus, God's own Son. -[6379.84 --> 6392.38] Precious Lamb of God, Messiah, Holy One. -[6392.38 --> 6405.88] Thank You, O my Father, for giving us Your Son. -[6405.88 --> 6418.48] Believe in Your Spirit's name, the work on earth is done. -[6418.48 --> 6432.20] Jesus, my Redeemer, name of all names. -[6432.98 --> 6444.26] Precious Lamb of God, Messiah, all poor sinners slain. -[6444.26 --> 6457.26] Thank You, O my Father, for giving us Your Son. -[6458.36 --> 6469.26] And believe in Your Spirit's name, the work on earth is done. -[6469.26 --> 6483.76] When I stand in glory, I will see His grace. -[6483.76 --> 6495.76] There, I'll serve my King forever in that holy way. -[6495.76 --> 6508.76] Thank You, O my Father, for giving us Your Son. -[6508.76 --> 6520.76] And believe in Your Spirit's name, the work on earth is done. -[6520.76 --> 6534.76] Thank You, O my Father, for giving us Your Son. -[6534.76 --> 6549.76] And believe in Your Spirit's name, the work on earth is done. -[6555.76 --> 6556.26] Amen. -[6556.26 --> 6572.02] We want to close our time in a word of prayer. -[6572.34 --> 6577.24] And that prayer will end with the parting blessing of God. -[6577.68 --> 6580.60] And then we will sing our last song together. -[6580.60 --> 6581.60] Amen. -[6581.60 --> 6585.18] Please join your hearts with mine first in prayer. -[6589.22 --> 6599.46] Amazing God, you come into our ordinary lives and set the holy table among us. -[6600.32 --> 6605.58] Filling our plates with the bread of life and our cups with salvation. -[6605.58 --> 6607.58] Send us out now. -[6607.58 --> 6608.58] Send us out now. -[6608.58 --> 6612.58] Full of thanksgiving and praise. -[6612.58 --> 6615.58] Send us out now to worship You. -[6615.58 --> 6626.58] Send us out with a tender heartedness to touch an ordinary everyday world with the promise of Your extraordinary grace. -[6626.58 --> 6629.58] In Jesus' name we pray. -[6629.58 --> 6630.58] Amen. -[6630.58 --> 6631.22] Amen. -[6633.58 --> 6635.74] And so you go. -[6636.42 --> 6640.46] Know that God goes before you to lead you. -[6640.98 --> 6643.88] God goes behind you to protect you. -[6644.40 --> 6646.84] God goes beneath you to support you. -[6647.12 --> 6650.22] And God goes beside you to befriend you. -[6650.50 --> 6652.58] Do not be afraid. -[6652.58 --> 6665.64] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. Do not be afraid, but go in peace with thanksgiving to love and praise the Lord. Amen. -[6665.64 --> 6685.40] Praise God from whom all blessings flow. -[6685.40 --> 6693.74] Praise Him, all creatures here below. -[6693.74 --> 6703.28] Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts. -[6704.08 --> 6713.60] Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. -[6713.60 --> 6722.84] Praise God from whom all blessings flow. -[6723.74 --> 6732.74] Praise Him, all creatures here below. -[6732.74 --> 6743.18] Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts. -[6743.18 --> 6753.18] Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. -[6753.18 --> 6764.18] Praise God from whom all blessings flow. -[6764.18 --> 6774.18] Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts. -[6774.18 --> 6781.18] Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts. -[6781.18 --> 6795.18] Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. -[6795.18 --> 6802.18] Praise God from whom all blessings flow. -[6802.18 --> 6807.18] Praise God from whom all blessings flow. -[6807.18 --> 6814.18] Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts. -[6814.18 --> 6828.18] Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts. -[6828.18 --> 6829.18] Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. -[6829.18 --> 6838.18] Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. -[6838.18 --> 6840.50] Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. -[6840.50 --> 6847.86] Amen. -[6847.86 --> 6849.10] Amen. -[6849.10 --> 6879.08] Thank you. -[6879.10 --> 6909.08] Thank you. -[6909.10 --> 6939.08] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 9, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 9, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 34b8ed421b71388b5394c8aff2f29b5c8e239cf2..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 9, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,151 +0,0 @@ -• Worship through praise -• Importance of loving one's neighbor as oneself -• Walking humbly with God in all things -• Being God's hands and feet in the world -• Sharing good news to all people -• The truth setting people free -• Praising God even in difficult times -• Acknowledging God's mercy, blessings, and glory -• Worship service announcements -• Lord's Supper participation -• QR code connections for visitors -• Thanksgiving Monday worship service invitation -• GEMS Camp fundraiser (Mason jar collection) -• Welcoming God's greeting and receiving blessing -• Praise for God's steadfast love and deliverance from death -• Fear of the Lord and awe in His presence -• Beauty and majesty of God, too wonderful to comprehend -• Tender compassion and mercy of God -• Storm and struggle, prayer for God's presence and help -• Lifting hands in praise, acknowledging God's sovereignty -• Trusting God's goodness despite affliction and sorrow -• Psalm-like prayer of lament and hope -• Expression of downcast soul, but trust in God's love and compassion -• Request for forgiveness and reminder of God's steadfast love -• Prayer for guidance to wait on God and rely on His word -• Assurance that God's love and salvation are available to those who seek Him -• Acknowledgment of sin and request for mercy -• Reflections on the value of faith in trials and tribulations -• Expression of trust in God's power and presence in times of darkness -• Praise for God's steadfast love and redemption through Christ -• Affirmation of God's victory over sin and His presence in all seasons -• Song-like repetition of themes, including praise, worship, and declaration of God's sovereignty -• The speaker, Brenda, leads a worship service and announces the special offering is for the Langley Food Bank. -• The Langley Food Bank is described as a non-profit organization that relies on local church support and helps those in need through volunteers' good works. -• God's concern for the poor is highlighted, and the church's role in identifying with and serving them is emphasized. -• The long-term goal of the Food Bank is to effect lasting transformation in clients' lives, bringing them from poverty to productivity and hope. -• Volunteers are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to support the Food Bank's needs. -• Prayer for upcoming general election -• Thanksgiving prayer -• Prayers for hurricane victims (Hurricane Ian and Fiona) -• Prayers for world conflicts (Ukraine, etc.) -• Prayers for relationships and families -• Prayers for those mourning the loss of loved ones -• Prayers for healing and comfort from pain and illness -• Prayers for mental health challenges -• Opening of God's word together through Psalm 77 -• The speaker shares a personal anecdote about encountering an elderly woman with her skirt stuck in her underwear at a mall. -• The story is used to illustrate how sometimes others need to help us see things we're blind to and that such moments can be awkward but necessary. -• The speaker suggests that the experience may relate to what some people are going through emotionally, specifically struggling with sorrow, heartbreak, or shame. -• The group begins reading Psalm 77 together. -• The psalm is discussed in relation to its historical context, specifically the Israelites' experience of exile and the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians. -• The first temple built by Solomon was magnificent and beyond compare -• Old people weep over the new foundations of the second temple because it pales in comparison to the first -• Asaph wrote Psalm 74 while standing in the rubble of the old temple before its rebuild -• Asaph cried out to God for help, feeling like God is absent after the destruction of the temple -• The image of praying with untiring hands (Exodus 17) is used by Asaph to express his desire for God's help and presence -• Connection to the story of Job, where friends try to make sense of evil in the world and tell Job that he must have done something wrong -• Job's friends say that if he purifies himself, God will restore him, but this is not what Asaph says in Psalm 74 -• The speaker discusses the relationship between faith/obedience and a positive life outcome. -• A quote from Psalm 77 is analyzed, where the psalmist expresses frustration that despite following God's commands, their situation did not improve. -• The psalmist describes their distress and despair in Psalm 77, including feeling comfortless and seeing no light at the end of their struggles. -• The concept of meditation and its meaning in a biblical context is discussed. -• The speaker explains how the Word of God brings life and should be a source of hope. -• Ezekiel is asked by God if dead bones can live -• God tells Ezekiel to prophesy to the bones, and they come back to life -• The story anticipates the Gospel of John, where Jesus' disciples are tempted to leave him -• A psalmist meditates on the Word of God but feels faint and drained rather than filled with life -• The speaker suggests that this is a reflection of human experience, where we struggle to connect with the power and faithfulness of God -• The speaker reflects on the idea that emotions reveal what our heart is doing with God, referencing a quote from Allender and Longman's book "The Cry of the Soul". -• The psalm 77 helps to illustrate how we can respond to difficult situations and big emotions by turning to God as more than just a help or vending machine. -• Examples are given, such as treating God like a phone-a-friend helpline or a vending machine, illustrating a transactional view of prayer rather than a relational one. -• The story of Job is mentioned as an example of why bad things happen to good people and how it challenges the idea that faith means getting what we want from God. -• The idea that good people shouldn't experience bad things -• The presumption of protection from hardships in modern culture -• The concept of God owing humans because they have been "good" -• Examples of people feeling entitled to certain outcomes despite being good, including relationships, health, and success -• The implication that this thinking reveals a manipulative relationship with God. -• Projecting human expectations onto God's behavior -• Disappointment and absolute conclusions resulting from unmet expectations -• Cynicism and apathy as a result of feeling God has rejected or failed us -• The danger of drawing absolutes in relationships with God -• The importance of self-reflection to distinguish between genuine struggles and projected expectations -• The opposite of love isn't hate, it's apathy and cynicism -• Apathy and cynicism are believing the bad in life can't be changed -• It's okay to struggle, doubt, and ask questions in life -• The Psalms make it clear that even in struggles, it's okay to feel despair -• Despair can quickly become apathy if operating with a wrong idea of God -• Apathy and cynicism can lead to an underfunctioning response and giving up -• It's essential to examine one's own life and default responses to hardships -• Apathy and cynicism are present in the speaker's heart -• The distinction between knowing biblical truth about God and living out of that truth is made -• Jesus faced despair, hardship, weeping, and crying out to God despite his love for others -• Psalm 22 is quoted and compared to similar words in Psalm 77 -• The Heidelberg Catechism summarizes the truth that Jesus' experience on the cross teaches about God's relationship with humanity -• The document in question is a summary of the Christian faith, particularly within the Reformed tradition. -• It was written in the 16th century and is structured as a series of questions and answers. -• One question discusses Jesus' descent into hell, with an answer that interprets it as his experience of suffering on the cross. -• The speaker emphasizes that Jesus knew anguish, pain, and terror, but never gave up or showed apathy. -• The passage then considers what would have happened if Jesus had not gone to the cross, concluding that humanity would still be in sin and death. -• The concept of God giving up and letting apathy and cynicism win -• Comparison to the God of the Bible, who does not give up or let evil prevail -• The distinction between humans trying to be like God and accepting their own limitations -• The importance of handling emotions and functioning in the world according to one's true identity -• Transformation into the Lord's image -• The fruit of the Spirit and its effects on emotions -• Apathy and cynicism, and the need for reminders about Jesus' character -• Psalm 77:13-15, describing God's holy ways and mighty acts -• Contrasting views of God in different parts of the Bible -• God's power and redemption through the gospel -• Salvation from sin and death through faith in Jesus Christ -• The promise that sorrow, hardship, and despair will not have the last word -• Jesus' assurance of making all things new -• The disappointment of human relationships and idols compared to God's reliability -• Isaiah 49:13-14 as a source of comfort and hope in God's presence -• Asking God to help them see the truth of who He is and who Jesus Christ is -• Seeking transformation into the image of Jesus Christ -• Discussing taking the truth of God's character deeper in their lives -• Mentioning participating in liturgy and speaking specific words together as a group -• Expressing gratitude to God for allowing them to give thanks and praise Him -• Gratitude for God's creation and covenant -• Thanksgiving for Jesus Christ's sacrifice and resurrection -• The Last Supper and Communion as a memorial of Jesus' sacrifice -• Invitation to come to the table, regardless of faith level or frequency of attendance -• Jesus Christ is raised and invites people to the table -• Groups will come forward to gather in a circle or oval around the table -• Ushers will guide the process of coming forward and passing trays with bread and juice -• Specific instructions are given for saying the body and blood of Christ as you pass the elements -• The worship team, elders, and others will be invited to come forward first -• Music and singing will take place during this time -• The blood of Christ shed for you -• Praying for hunger and thirst to be satisfied -• Requesting Christ's light to shine in hearts and church -• Yearning for belonging and unity among people -• Serving one another to make God's kingdom come -• Christ's promise of resurrection, life, and eternal life -• Being freed from fear and becoming a child of God -• Freedom from fear and slavery to God -• Being a child of God and walking through challenges with perfect love -• Rescue and standing/singing in faith -• The body of Christ being beautiful and holy -• Sacrifice, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus -• Humble hearts giving fruit of pure light for others -• Praise for God's greatness, truth, mercy, and grace -• Hope, forgiveness, and salvation through Jesus -• Gratitude for freedom in Christ -• Reflection on nourishment and transformation through worship -• Invitation to stand and conclude with prayer -• Parting blessing and song -• Prayer for God's presence and guidance -• Song of praise to Jesus as hope, comfort, and strength -• Celebration of Jesus' resurrection and victory over fear \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - October 9, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - October 9, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 311e3044a49c560329a39b883fb27c9c39f15723..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - October 9, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2764 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 16.60] Oh, praise the Father, praise the Son, praise the Spirit, three in one. -[16.60 --> 30.66] God of glory, majesty, praise forever to the King of kings. -[30.66 --> 38.68] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[46.60 --> 58.60] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, praise the Lord, praise the Lord, praise the Lord. -[58.60 --> 75.60] And it all comes down to this, what you require of me. -[75.60 --> 85.66] Love my neighbor as my soul, and you above all things. -[85.66 --> 94.74] Act justly, love mercy, walk humbly with you, God. -[95.56 --> 104.10] In all things, in all ways, walk humbly with you, God. -[104.10 --> 113.16] It all comes down to this, to be your hands and feet. -[113.16 --> 117.16] Good news to all the world. -[117.16 --> 126.22] Oh, the truth will set us free. -[126.22 --> 135.28] Love my neighbor as my soul, and you above all things. -[135.28 --> 136.28] It's beautiful. -[136.28 --> 137.28] It's beautiful. -[137.28 --> 138.28] It's beautiful. -[138.28 --> 147.34] It's beautiful. -[147.34 --> 149.34] It's beautiful. -[149.34 --> 150.34] It's beautiful. -[150.34 --> 151.34] It's beautiful. -[151.34 --> 152.34] It's beautiful. -[152.34 --> 152.48] альную stuff. -[152.48 --> 153.34] It's beautiful. -[153.34 --> 155.44] It's beautiful. -[155.44 --> 156.44] Whatever it is. -[156.44 --> 156.56] That's right. -[156.56 --> 161.72] Closer and closer the kingdom of heaven. -[169.30 --> 178.08] And years from now we'll see the fruit our hands have sown. -[178.08 --> 188.96] Faith just like a seed, the only way it grows. -[188.96 --> 206.88] I just see the mercy, walk on me with you, God. -[206.88 --> 215.90] In all things, in all ways, walk on me with you, God. -[218.96 --> 223.96] trends. -[224.96 --> 225.96] �� -[228.96 --> 230.96] ac Region -[230.96 --> 254.74] Blessed be your name -[254.74 --> 258.62] In the land that is plentiful -[258.62 --> 262.90] Where your streams of abundance flow -[262.90 --> 265.06] Blessed be your name -[265.06 --> 271.30] Blessed be your name -[271.30 --> 275.48] When I'm found in the desert place -[275.48 --> 279.10] Though I walk through the wilderness -[279.10 --> 281.46] Blessed be your name -[281.46 --> 288.14] Every blessing you pour out -[288.14 --> 291.40] Our time back to praise -[291.40 --> 296.30] When the darkness closes in -[296.30 --> 299.42] Lord, still I will say -[299.42 --> 303.34] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[303.34 --> 306.18] Blessed be your name -[306.18 --> 311.86] Blessed be your name -[311.86 --> 314.46] Blessed be your glory -[314.46 --> 316.26] I can name -[316.26 --> 323.00] Blessed be your name -[323.00 --> 327.06] When the sun is shining down on me -[327.06 --> 331.24] When the world's all as it should be -[331.24 --> 333.18] Blessed be your name -[333.18 --> 337.46] Blessed be your name -[337.46 --> 339.46] Blessed be your name -[339.46 --> 343.46] On the road marked with suffering -[343.46 --> 347.46] Though there's pain in the offering -[347.46 --> 349.46] Blessed be your name -[349.46 --> 351.46] Yes, Lord -[351.46 --> 355.46] Every blessing you pour out -[355.46 --> 356.90] All out all -[356.90 --> 359.74] Turn back to praise -[359.74 --> 364.66] When the darkness closes in -[364.66 --> 367.70] Lord, still I will say -[367.70 --> 369.74] Blessed be your name -[369.74 --> 371.74] Blessed be your name -[371.74 --> 373.74] Blessed be your name -[373.74 --> 375.74] Blessed be your name -[375.74 --> 377.74] Blessed be your name -[377.74 --> 382.02] Have you home -[382.02 --> 384.22] What is 내 name -[384.22 --> 386.02] Quel'er the worldiant -[386.02 --> 387.18] ellos are by you -[387.18 --> 388.02] You give and take away -[388.02 --> 388.04] God and all -[388.04 --> 388.42] 웁selvando -[388.42 --> 389.58] Oicia -[389.58 --> 390.40] Of your versus -[390.40 --> 391.36] People who Ein Courtney -[391.36 --> 392.06] ��면 -[392.06 --> 393.18] Donccional -[393.18 --> 394.18] 、、 Montcional -[394.18 --> 395.66] Tell and -[395.66 --> 396.26] Your sexuality -[396.26 --> 397.10] uencia -[397.10 --> 398.22] Of your -[398.22 --> 399.50] Bethel -[399.50 --> 400.44] Nos -[400.44 --> 401.12] earth -[401.12 --> 402.70] People -[402.70 --> 403.34] George -[403.34 --> 404.96] Give and -[404.96 --> 405.60] wave -[405.60 --> 407.60] 환 -[407.60 --> 411.20] You give and take away -[411.20 --> 415.36] My heart will choose to say -[415.36 --> 419.64] Oh, blessed be your name -[419.64 --> 423.60] Don't you give and take away -[423.60 --> 427.78] Oh, you give and take away -[427.78 --> 431.94] My heart will choose to say -[431.94 --> 437.04] Oh, blessed be your name -[437.60 --> 442.06] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[442.06 --> 444.38] Blessed be your name -[444.38 --> 448.58] Blessed be your name -[448.58 --> 452.98] Blessed be your glory -[452.98 --> 456.86] Blessed be the name -[456.86 --> 461.16] Blessed be your name -[461.16 --> 463.02] My truth is said -[463.02 --> 466.84] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[466.84 --> 472.68] Blessed be the glory of the name -[472.68 --> 475.68] Blessed be your name -[475.68 --> 481.50] You give and take away -[481.50 --> 485.52] God, you give and take away -[485.52 --> 489.72] My heart will choose to say -[489.72 --> 494.04] Lord, blessed be your name -[494.04 --> 498.08] God, you give and take away -[498.08 --> 502.16] You give and you take away -[502.16 --> 506.44] But my heart will choose to say -[506.44 --> 510.80] Lord, blessed be your name -[510.80 --> 514.68] Oh, you give and take away -[514.68 --> 518.38] You give and take away -[518.38 --> 522.92] For you, God, my heart will choose to say -[522.92 --> 524.38] Oh, it will be, God -[524.38 --> 524.96] Let's get away -[524.96 --> 529.00] Blessed be your name -[529.00 --> 533.32] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[533.32 --> 542.20] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[542.20 --> 546.04] Blessed be the glory of the name -[546.04 --> 549.92] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[549.92 --> 552.18] Blessed be your name. -[553.98 --> 558.06] Blessed be the name of the Lord. -[558.56 --> 562.76] Blessed be your glorious name. -[564.08 --> 565.84] Blessed be your name. -[579.92 --> 586.42] Good morning. -[588.42 --> 596.04] Welcome to worship on this beautiful, sunny, long weekend Sunday. -[596.76 --> 602.62] Special welcome if you are here visiting with us this morning, either here in person or online. -[602.62 --> 608.40] We are going to let that settle itself. -[609.00 --> 609.82] Very good. -[610.10 --> 612.92] We are glad that you are here with us this morning. -[613.64 --> 617.64] As you can see later in our worship service, we're going to be participating in the Lord's Supper. -[618.12 --> 624.08] And so we encourage you here or at home to join us in that time together. -[624.94 --> 629.80] Also, especially if you're visiting with us this morning, but we have these cards available. -[629.80 --> 632.70] They're on the back table and variously around the church. -[632.80 --> 638.34] You'll find these QR codes that you can scan and that will give you the opportunity to connect with us. -[638.34 --> 641.80] And we can connect with you and maybe meet with you or pray for you. -[641.92 --> 646.06] Find out how we can serve you in some way together. -[646.18 --> 649.34] And so please, if you would like to, take the opportunity to do that. -[650.02 --> 656.98] As well, I want to just mention quickly that tomorrow, on Thanksgiving Monday, we are having a worship service here. -[656.98 --> 658.48] It begins at 10 a.m. -[658.48 --> 662.32] And so everyone is invited to come to that service. -[662.32 --> 663.04] We'll gather. -[663.20 --> 667.20] We'll give thanks to our God and worship his name together. -[668.58 --> 675.88] As we gather in the presence of God, we do so as those whom are called and as those whom are welcomed by God. -[675.88 --> 678.20] And so I'm going to invite you, as you're able, to stand. -[679.06 --> 681.24] We can receive together God's greeting. -[686.94 --> 689.06] Before I do that, there's one more announcement. -[689.80 --> 690.86] This is me looking at my list. -[691.00 --> 691.88] Nikki, don't get mad at me. -[691.94 --> 692.32] I remembered. -[693.68 --> 700.30] The GEMS are doing their GEMS Camp fundraiser again this year. -[700.30 --> 705.96] And so, if you don't know, GEMS is a girls' ministry here among us. -[706.06 --> 713.56] And they get together every other Thursday, do crafts and Bible study, and grow together in faith and in community. -[714.46 --> 718.30] And they, every year, do... -[718.82 --> 721.46] What's the actual name of the fundraiser? -[721.58 --> 721.76] Anyone? -[722.98 --> 723.94] Cookie Jars. -[724.08 --> 725.06] There, Jar Fundraiser. -[725.16 --> 726.96] That seems like it needs a better name, Courtney. -[726.96 --> 734.46] But we're looking for Mason jars to help facilitate this. -[734.54 --> 736.68] We need something like 400, maybe more. -[736.78 --> 738.22] Depends how generous you want to be. -[738.84 --> 740.92] And they need to be a particular Mason jar. -[741.34 --> 745.72] So they need the quart-sized jar with a wide mouth. -[747.00 --> 748.28] Apparently that means something. -[749.30 --> 750.34] I don't know. -[751.06 --> 752.36] But that's what they need. -[752.36 --> 758.26] I was told that you can get them from the thrift store or wherever you happen to find them. -[758.42 --> 761.98] What matters is that they are quart-sized with a wide mouth. -[762.74 --> 766.96] If you have any questions about that, you can talk to Nikki or Rachel. -[767.24 --> 768.52] Nikki, Rachel, wave your hands. -[768.70 --> 769.46] Oh, they're both over here. -[769.54 --> 769.82] Perfect. -[770.30 --> 770.88] Talk to them. -[770.96 --> 773.10] They're figuring that out for the GEMS this year. -[773.10 --> 780.58] If you do bring some to give to us and to donate, you can leave them in Pastor Kevin's office. -[781.80 --> 783.64] I was told that's also the case. -[786.22 --> 786.80] All right. -[786.86 --> 788.76] I think that's it. -[790.06 --> 790.50] Perfect. -[791.50 --> 795.76] We gather together in the presence of our God and so receive his greeting. -[797.14 --> 801.26] Grace, mercy, and peace to you. -[801.26 --> 807.56] From God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[808.64 --> 809.02] Amen. -[809.90 --> 816.40] As God has greeted us, I invite you to turn to each other and greet those with whom we are worshiping this morning. -[822.40 --> 823.48] Hello, everybody. -[829.42 --> 830.18] Hello, Kevin. -[831.26 --> 831.98] Good morning. -[833.64 --> 834.56] Mark, morning. -[835.18 --> 835.56] Again. -[836.16 --> 836.74] It's been a while. -[847.24 --> 853.12] Behold, the eye of the Lord is on those who fear him, on those whose hope in his steadfast love, -[853.54 --> 857.12] that he may deliver their soul from death and keep them alive in famine. -[857.12 --> 859.30] Let all the earth fear the Lord. -[859.30 --> 862.44] Let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him. -[862.44 --> 864.28] Good morning. -[864.28 --> 864.44] Okay. -[865.36 --> 866.20] If a great guest now has asked for you, the man Of the spiritual I am by His pulpitins. -[866.20 --> 881.22] You are beautiful beyond description -[881.22 --> 889.30] Too marvelous for words -[889.30 --> 894.62] Too wonderful for comprehension -[894.62 --> 901.62] Like nothing ever seen or heard -[902.30 --> 907.74] Who can grasp your infinite wisdom -[907.74 --> 914.70] Who can problem the depths of your love -[914.70 --> 920.62] You are beautiful beyond description -[920.62 --> 927.62] Majesty and throne of all -[927.62 --> 935.62] And I stand, I stand in awe of you -[935.62 --> 942.62] I stand, I stand in awe of you -[942.62 --> 949.62] Holy God to whom all praise is due -[949.62 --> 954.62] I stand in awe of you -[954.62 --> 963.62] You are beautiful beyond description -[963.62 --> 970.62] Till God hurts you in for my sin -[970.62 --> 977.62] In agony and deep affliction -[977.62 --> 984.62] Cut off that I might enter in -[984.62 --> 991.62] Who can grasp such tender compassion -[991.62 --> 997.62] Who can fathom this mercy so free -[997.62 --> 1003.62] You are beautiful beyond description -[1003.62 --> 1010.62] I stand, I stand in awe of you -[1010.62 --> 1014.62] I stand, I stand in awe of you -[1014.62 --> 1021.62] I stand, I stand in awe of you -[1021.62 --> 1025.62] I stand, I stand in awe of you -[1025.62 --> 1032.62] Holy God to whom all praise is due -[1032.62 --> 1039.62] I stand in awe of you -[1039.62 --> 1046.62] I stand, I stand in awe of you -[1046.62 --> 1049.62] I stand, I stand in awe of you -[1049.62 --> 1067.08] I wish so by now that you would have reached down -[1067.08 --> 1070.70] And wiped away your tears away -[1070.70 --> 1074.40] Stepped in and saved the day -[1074.40 --> 1080.22] But once again I'll say Amen -[1080.22 --> 1083.76] And it's still raining -[1083.76 --> 1089.50] As the thunder rolls -[1089.50 --> 1094.94] I dare to hear you whisper through the rain -[1094.94 --> 1098.30] I'm with you -[1098.30 --> 1103.28] And as your mercy falls -[1103.28 --> 1108.90] I'll raise my hands and praise the God who gives -[1108.90 --> 1111.10] And takes away -[1111.10 --> 1117.94] I'll praise you with this storm -[1117.94 --> 1121.94] And I will lift my hands -[1121.94 --> 1125.28] For you are who you are -[1125.28 --> 1128.64] No matter where I am -[1128.64 --> 1131.26] And every tear I cry -[1131.26 --> 1134.26] You hold in your hand -[1134.26 --> 1138.70] You've never left my time -[1138.70 --> 1141.80] Though my heart is torn -[1141.80 --> 1148.42] I will praise you in this storm -[1148.42 --> 1161.42] I remember when I stumbled in the wind -[1161.42 --> 1163.42] You heard my cry -[1163.42 --> 1165.04] I will praise you -[1165.04 --> 1167.04] And raise me up again -[1167.04 --> 1171.08] But my strength is almost gone -[1171.08 --> 1174.36] How can I carry on -[1174.36 --> 1178.04] If I can't find you -[1178.04 --> 1180.66] And as the thunder rolls -[1180.66 --> 1182.46] And as the thunder rolls -[1182.46 --> 1187.98] I barely hear you whisper through the rain -[1187.98 --> 1190.86] I'm with you -[1190.86 --> 1194.66] And as your mercy falls -[1194.66 --> 1199.86] I'll raise my hands and praise the God who gives -[1199.86 --> 1201.48] And change the wind -[1201.48 --> 1203.48] And change the wind -[1203.48 --> 1209.48] And I'll praise you with this storm -[1209.48 --> 1212.48] And I will lift my hands -[1212.48 --> 1216.48] And you are who you are -[1216.48 --> 1220.10] No matter where I am -[1220.10 --> 1223.10] And every tear I cry -[1223.10 --> 1227.10] You hold in your hand -[1227.10 --> 1230.10] You've never left my side -[1230.10 --> 1233.10] And all my heart is torn -[1233.10 --> 1240.00] I will praise you in this storm -[1240.00 --> 1249.34] I lift my eyes until it is -[1249.34 --> 1252.66] Where does my health come from? -[1252.66 --> 1255.54] My health comes from the Lord -[1255.54 --> 1258.88] The maker of heaven and earth -[1258.88 --> 1262.52] I lift my eyes until it is -[1262.52 --> 1265.78] Where does my health come from? -[1266.00 --> 1268.62] My health comes from the Lord -[1268.62 --> 1272.78] The maker of heaven and earth -[1272.78 --> 1289.74] And I'll praise you with this storm -[1289.74 --> 1293.00] And I will lift my hands -[1293.00 --> 1296.24] For you are who you are -[1296.24 --> 1299.54] No matter where I am -[1299.54 --> 1302.40] And every tear I cry -[1302.40 --> 1305.94] You hold in your hand -[1305.94 --> 1309.20] You've never left my side -[1309.20 --> 1312.24] And though my heart is torn -[1312.24 --> 1319.24] I will praise you in this storm -[1319.24 --> 1325.40] And though my heart is torn -[1325.40 --> 1331.54] I will praise you in this storm -[1331.54 --> 1344.64] I remember my affliction and my wanderings -[1344.64 --> 1346.04] The bitterness and the gall -[1346.04 --> 1347.88] I well remember them -[1347.88 --> 1350.74] And my soul is downcast within me -[1350.74 --> 1353.30] Yet this I will call to mind -[1353.30 --> 1354.62] And therefore I have hope -[1354.62 --> 1356.78] Because of the Lord's great love -[1356.78 --> 1358.00] We are not consumed -[1358.00 --> 1360.32] For his compassions never fail -[1360.32 --> 1362.20] They are new every morning -[1362.20 --> 1364.06] Great is your faithfulness -[1364.06 --> 1365.60] I say to myself -[1365.60 --> 1367.00] The Lord is my portion -[1367.00 --> 1369.20] Therefore I will wait for him -[1369.20 --> 1370.88] Forgive us Lord -[1370.88 --> 1373.82] Then when we forget your steadfast love -[1373.82 --> 1377.46] When our affliction is too great in our mind -[1377.46 --> 1379.26] When our struggle and doubt -[1379.26 --> 1381.08] When we struggle and doubt -[1381.08 --> 1382.08] Alone in the dark -[1382.08 --> 1383.62] As we allow ourselves -[1383.62 --> 1384.98] To wander from you -[1384.98 --> 1387.30] Wondering if we'll wander back to you -[1387.30 --> 1388.46] Or be lost in darkness -[1388.46 --> 1389.96] Teach us again -[1389.96 --> 1391.36] To wait on you -[1391.36 --> 1394.00] For the Lord is good to those -[1394.00 --> 1395.08] Whose hope is in him -[1395.08 --> 1396.66] To the one who seeks him -[1396.66 --> 1398.48] It is good to wait quietly -[1398.48 --> 1400.32] For the salvation of the Lord -[1400.32 --> 1403.74] Father -[1403.74 --> 1433.72] Thank you. -[1433.74 --> 1443.34] Out of the depths I cry to you, in darkest places I will call. -[1444.40 --> 1455.00] Incline your ear to me anew, and hear my cry for mercy, Lord. -[1455.00 --> 1466.10] For you to count my sinful ways, how could I come before your throne? -[1466.80 --> 1471.00] Yet full forgiveness meets my gaze. -[1471.00 --> 1476.80] I stand redeemed by grace alone. -[1478.02 --> 1483.48] I will wait for you, I will wait for you. -[1483.80 --> 1487.78] On your word I will rely. -[1487.78 --> 1499.78] I will wait for you, surely wait for you, till my soul is satisfied. -[1499.78 --> 1513.78] So put your hope in God alone. -[1513.78 --> 1524.84] Take courage in his power to say, completely and forever won. -[1525.38 --> 1529.78] By Christ's dematching crown of grace. -[1529.78 --> 1535.84] I will wait for you, I will wait for you. -[1536.02 --> 1539.98] On your word I will rely. -[1541.34 --> 1550.60] I will wait for you, surely wait for you, till my soul is satisfied. -[1550.60 --> 1565.34] His steadfast love has made a way. -[1565.34 --> 1570.74] And God himself has paid the price. -[1571.40 --> 1579.98] That all who trust in him today, find healing in his sacrifice. -[1579.98 --> 1586.60] I will wait for you, I will wait for you. -[1586.60 --> 1591.66] Through the storm and through the night. -[1591.66 --> 1597.06] I will wait for you, surely wait for you. -[1597.24 --> 1602.30] For your love is my delight. -[1602.66 --> 1607.80] I will wait for you, I will wait for you. -[1608.16 --> 1611.90] On your word I will rely. -[1611.90 --> 1618.68] I will wait for you, surely wait for you. -[1618.68 --> 1623.26] Till my soul is satisfied. -[1641.90 --> 1647.48] Shoot. -[1647.48 --> 1649.78] I will wait for you, Peter. -[1665.68 --> 1666.62] I will wait for you, Billy. -[1666.62 --> 1672.92] This is my prayer in the desert -[1672.92 --> 1679.94] When all that's within me feels dry -[1679.94 --> 1688.06] This is my prayer in my hunger and need -[1688.06 --> 1693.18] My God is the God who provides -[1693.18 --> 1698.80] This is my prayer in the fire -[1698.80 --> 1704.92] In weakness or trial or rain -[1704.92 --> 1712.02] There is a faith proved of more worth and gold -[1712.02 --> 1716.78] So we finally, Lord, through the flame -[1716.78 --> 1722.68] I will bring praise, I will bring praise -[1722.68 --> 1728.30] The weapon formed against me shall remain -[1728.30 --> 1733.68] I will rejoice, I will declare -[1733.68 --> 1739.80] God is my victory and He is free -[1739.80 --> 1754.42] This is my prayer in the battle -[1754.42 --> 1759.42] When triumph is still on its way -[1759.42 --> 1767.04] I am a conqueror and cold air with Christ -[1767.04 --> 1771.04] So firm on His promise I'll stand -[1771.04 --> 1777.04] I will bring praise, I will bring praise -[1777.04 --> 1782.66] No weapon formed against me shall remain -[1782.66 --> 1788.04] I will rejoice, I will defend -[1788.04 --> 1794.04] God is my victory and He is here -[1794.04 --> 1799.66] All of my life -[1799.66 --> 1801.66] All of my life -[1801.66 --> 1803.66] In every season -[1803.66 --> 1806.66] You are still God -[1806.66 --> 1811.66] I have a reason to sing -[1811.66 --> 1817.04] I have a reason to worship -[1817.04 --> 1823.66] All of my life -[1823.66 --> 1824.66] All of my life -[1824.66 --> 1825.66] In every season -[1825.66 --> 1828.66] You are still God -[1828.66 --> 1831.66] I have a reason to sing -[1831.66 --> 1835.66] I have a reason to worship -[1835.66 --> 1843.28] I have a reason to worship -[1843.28 --> 1846.28] All of my life -[1846.28 --> 1848.28] In every season -[1848.28 --> 1851.28] You are still God -[1851.28 --> 1855.28] I have a reason to sing -[1855.28 --> 1856.28] I have a reason to sing -[1856.28 --> 1857.28] I have a reason to sing -[1857.28 --> 1862.28] I will bring praise -[1862.28 --> 1867.28] I will bring praise -[1867.28 --> 1870.10] I will bring praise -[1870.10 --> 1874.90] No weapon formed against me shall remain -[1874.90 --> 1877.28] I will rejoice -[1877.28 --> 1878.28] I will rejoice -[1878.28 --> 1880.44] I will declare -[1880.44 --> 1883.28] God is my victory -[1883.82 --> 1887.14] And He is here -[1887.14 --> 1901.38] This is my prayer in the harvest -[1901.38 --> 1906.58] When favor and providence glow -[1906.58 --> 1913.38] I know I feel to be emptied again -[1913.94 --> 1916.38] The seed I've received -[1917.04 --> 1919.08] I will sow -[1919.08 --> 1923.48] Please be seated -[1931.38 --> 1941.58] Good morning -[1941.58 --> 1943.22] My name is Brenda -[1943.22 --> 1944.80] And I am a deacon here at Emanuel -[1944.80 --> 1946.66] We continue our worship -[1946.66 --> 1948.04] With the giving of our gifts -[1948.04 --> 1949.92] First to the budget -[1949.92 --> 1951.56] Which is for the administration -[1951.56 --> 1953.20] Of the church and its ministries -[1953.20 --> 1955.16] And our special offering today -[1955.16 --> 1956.82] Is for the Langley Food Bank -[1956.82 --> 1958.52] The Langley Food Bank -[1958.52 --> 1960.10] Is a non-profit organization -[1960.10 --> 1961.68] And is entirely funded -[1961.68 --> 1962.58] Through the support -[1962.58 --> 1963.52] Of local churches -[1963.52 --> 1964.80] Organizations -[1964.80 --> 1965.78] And individuals -[1965.78 --> 1967.52] It does not receive -[1967.52 --> 1968.32] Any support -[1968.32 --> 1969.76] From any government bodies -[1969.76 --> 1971.72] The vision and mission -[1971.72 --> 1972.54] Of the Food Bank -[1972.54 --> 1973.62] Is to establish -[1973.62 --> 1974.52] Maintain -[1974.52 --> 1975.56] And conduct -[1975.56 --> 1977.12] A practical helping ministry -[1977.12 --> 1978.42] To the needy in Langley -[1978.42 --> 1980.24] And to facilitate -[1980.24 --> 1981.42] The effective preaching -[1981.42 --> 1982.98] Of the gospel of Jesus Christ -[1982.98 --> 1984.06] To the poor -[1984.06 --> 1985.22] Through the good works -[1985.22 --> 1986.12] Of its volunteers -[1986.12 --> 1988.34] At the Food Bank -[1988.34 --> 1989.22] We believe -[1989.22 --> 1990.84] God has a special concern -[1990.84 --> 1992.24] For those who cannot care -[1992.24 --> 1993.28] For their own needs -[1993.28 --> 1995.48] He clearly calls his people -[1995.48 --> 1996.70] To share his concern -[1996.70 --> 1998.42] And express his compassion -[1998.42 --> 1999.70] To the poor and needy -[1999.70 --> 2001.86] God's call to the church -[2001.86 --> 2004.30] Is to identify with the poor -[2004.30 --> 2004.80] The weak -[2004.80 --> 2005.50] And the vulnerable -[2005.50 --> 2007.26] And to invest our time -[2007.26 --> 2008.30] Energy and money -[2008.30 --> 2009.28] In serving them -[2009.28 --> 2011.22] The long-term objective -[2011.76 --> 2013.06] In all that we do -[2013.06 --> 2013.88] At the Food Bank -[2013.88 --> 2015.42] Is to effect -[2015.42 --> 2016.76] Lasting transformation -[2016.76 --> 2017.84] In the lives -[2017.84 --> 2018.72] Of our clients -[2018.72 --> 2019.80] To bring them -[2019.80 --> 2021.14] From a life of poverty -[2021.14 --> 2022.94] To a life of productivity -[2022.94 --> 2023.84] And hope -[2023.84 --> 2025.74] We recognize -[2025.74 --> 2027.14] The absolute need -[2027.14 --> 2028.24] For the intervention -[2028.24 --> 2029.84] And work of the Holy Spirit -[2029.84 --> 2031.94] As crucial to this process -[2031.94 --> 2033.92] As well as the vital necessity -[2033.92 --> 2035.62] For a new and ongoing -[2035.62 --> 2037.20] Relationship with God the Father -[2037.20 --> 2039.16] Through Jesus Christ his Son -[2039.16 --> 2041.26] The Langley Food Bank -[2041.26 --> 2042.90] Is a very effective voice -[2042.90 --> 2044.26] In preaching the gospel -[2044.26 --> 2044.92] To the poor -[2044.92 --> 2046.06] Through the good works -[2046.06 --> 2047.22] Of its volunteers -[2047.22 --> 2048.68] Because actions -[2048.68 --> 2050.56] Speak louder than words -[2050.56 --> 2053.94] Actions will often create -[2053.94 --> 2054.78] The pathway -[2054.78 --> 2056.82] For the words to be heard -[2056.82 --> 2058.80] Tomorrow -[2058.80 --> 2060.68] We have a service here -[2060.68 --> 2061.62] As Pastor Chris said -[2061.62 --> 2062.72] And our offering -[2062.72 --> 2063.52] Will also be -[2063.52 --> 2064.54] For the Food Bank -[2064.54 --> 2066.30] And we encourage you -[2066.30 --> 2066.90] To bring in -[2066.90 --> 2068.60] Non-perishable food items -[2068.60 --> 2069.50] And they can be brought up -[2069.50 --> 2070.06] To the front -[2070.06 --> 2071.30] Tomorrow -[2071.30 --> 2072.72] If you go to -[2072.72 --> 2073.72] The Langley Food Bank -[2073.72 --> 2074.48] Website -[2074.48 --> 2075.30] You will see -[2075.30 --> 2076.00] That currently -[2076.00 --> 2077.00] There is a need -[2077.00 --> 2077.92] For baby food -[2077.92 --> 2079.10] For diapers -[2079.10 --> 2080.72] For pasta -[2080.72 --> 2081.60] And craft dinner -[2081.60 --> 2083.28] And for cereal -[2083.28 --> 2086.10] 1 John 3 -[2086.10 --> 2087.90] Verse 18 -[2087.90 --> 2088.36] Says -[2088.36 --> 2089.52] Dear children -[2089.52 --> 2090.60] Let us not love -[2090.60 --> 2091.22] With words -[2091.22 --> 2092.24] Or speech -[2092.24 --> 2093.44] But with actions -[2093.44 --> 2094.24] And in truth -[2094.24 --> 2094.52] Instead -[2094.52 --> 2095.22] 희 -[2095.22 --> 2125.20] Thank you. -[2125.22 --> 2155.20] Thank you. -[2155.22 --> 2185.20] Thank you. -[2185.22 --> 2215.20] Thank you. -[2215.22 --> 2245.20] Thank you. -[2245.22 --> 2247.22] Thank you. -[2275.22 --> 2277.22] Thank you. -[2305.22 --> 2307.22] Thank you. -[2335.22 --> 2337.22] Thank you. -[2365.22 --> 2367.22] Thank you. -[2395.22 --> 2397.22] Thank you. -[2397.22 --> 2399.22] Thank you. -[2399.22 --> 2403.22] Thank you. -[2425.22 --> 2427.22] Thank you. -[2427.22 --> 2429.22] Thank you. -[2429.22 --> 2431.22] Thank you. -[2431.22 --> 2433.22] Thank you. -[2433.22 --> 2435.22] Thank you. -[2435.22 --> 2437.22] Thank you. -[2437.22 --> 2439.22] Thank you. -[2439.22 --> 2441.22] Thank you. -[2441.22 --> 2443.22] Thank you. -[2443.22 --> 2447.22] Thank you. -[2447.22 --> 2449.22] Thank you. -[2449.22 --> 2451.22] Thank you. -[2451.22 --> 2453.22] Thank you. -[2453.22 --> 2460.40] bow our heads and go to our God in prayer. Our Lord and our God, we praise and worship your holy -[2460.40 --> 2467.10] name on this beautiful sunny morning. Your name alone is exalted. Your splendor is above the earth -[2467.10 --> 2473.04] and the heavens. As we've been experiencing an extended season of warmth and sunny weather, -[2473.34 --> 2479.74] we can't help but see the beauty of the creation all around us. From the mighty oceans to the -[2479.74 --> 2485.80] majestic mountains and everything in between, all of the earth worships you. With the psalmist and as -[2485.80 --> 2490.98] we sung this morning, we lift our eyes up to the mountains and say, where does our help come from? -[2491.60 --> 2496.90] Our help comes from you, Lord, maker of heaven and earth, you who will not let our foot slip. -[2497.60 --> 2502.92] You watch over us without slumber, and so we lift up our praise and our requests to you this morning -[2502.92 --> 2509.44] as your people. Lord, we pray for our upcoming general election that's going to take place on -[2509.44 --> 2514.76] Saturday locally. And we thank you, Lord, for all the candidates who are running. We pray for your -[2514.76 --> 2519.40] blessing and for success for the candidates who seek your will in positions of leadership. -[2520.66 --> 2525.90] Lord, encourage us as voters to put in our preparation time and to seek your will as we vote. -[2526.94 --> 2532.96] We pray for all political leaders at all levels of government. Lord, we know that all authority -[2532.96 --> 2541.00] comes from you. We pray, Lord, as we enter the season of Thanksgiving, a prayer of thanks. We have so much -[2541.00 --> 2548.02] to be thankful for. Here in this place, we have peace, prosperity, freedoms. Lord, help us to use -[2548.02 --> 2553.82] these things for your kingdom. Bless us as we gather again tomorrow as a congregation in our Thanksgiving -[2553.82 --> 2562.54] service, and let it be a time of uplifting time for us to give thanks to you. Lord, there are so many -[2562.54 --> 2569.42] concerns we have for our world and for each other in this time as well. We pray, Lord, for the hurricanes -[2569.42 --> 2575.84] that have been taking place and for the people who were impacted by Hurricane Ian and here in Canada by -[2575.84 --> 2582.84] Hurricane Fiona. Lord, livelihoods and possessions have been damaged. We pray for all those who are working -[2582.84 --> 2589.70] on the cleanup efforts and those who are patiently waiting for the next outcome of this situation. -[2591.22 --> 2597.00] Lord, we pray for the situations throughout the world of strife and unrest and war. We continue to -[2597.00 --> 2602.64] uphold Ukraine. Lord, this ongoing struggle has gone on for so long, and there's no end in sight. -[2602.92 --> 2611.22] We pray, Lord, for peace. We also pray for our relationships and for ourselves here at home in our -[2611.22 --> 2615.80] families and amongst each other. Lord, many relationships are strained and some broken, -[2616.08 --> 2623.76] and God, we pray for healing and reconciliation. Lord, we also pray with those who mourn the loss of -[2623.76 --> 2631.70] loved ones. Some have lost many who are just, who have gone too soon, and Lord, we pray for comfort and -[2631.70 --> 2639.20] peace. We're not always ready to see our loved ones go on before us, Lord, and we pray for your help to be -[2639.20 --> 2644.98] our support, Lord, that you would give us comfort and bring us to you in this time of mourning. -[2646.18 --> 2652.32] We also pray for everyone in our midst, Lord, who's dealing with pain and illness. Lord, you are the God -[2652.32 --> 2659.48] of healing. We ask for healing for those who have illness and injury and bodies that are growing older -[2659.48 --> 2665.28] and dealing with challenges and struggles that come with that. And Lord, we also pray for those -[2665.28 --> 2670.72] who are dealing with different challenges with mental health. Lord, we sometimes experience deep -[2670.72 --> 2678.60] sorrow in our hearts. Some feel forgotten and alone. Some feel anxiety and depression and to some extent -[2678.60 --> 2685.04] defeated. And sometimes, Lord, we find ourselves wrestling every day with our thoughts. Bring us your -[2685.04 --> 2690.68] peace, your comfort, and your healing that we can say with the psalmist, though all these things are -[2690.68 --> 2697.40] happening. But I will trust in your unfailing love. My heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing the -[2697.40 --> 2706.76] Lord's praise, for you have been good to us. And Lord, as we go into our message now from our pastor, -[2706.90 --> 2712.14] and Lord, as you lead us into your word, we pray that you would speak to us. And then as we have -[2712.14 --> 2716.90] communion together, Lord, we pray that we would experience nourishment, strength, and comfort together -[2716.90 --> 2721.34] through the sacrament. And Lord, we ask all these things in Jesus' name. Amen. -[2721.34 --> 2721.46] Amen. -[2721.46 --> 2722.46] Amen. -[2741.96 --> 2750.24] We are indeed going to open God's word together, continue in that time of worship. -[2750.24 --> 2758.34] we're going to read from Psalm 77, the first nine verses. It will be on the screen overhead, -[2758.66 --> 2763.20] but I encourage you to have a Bible in your hands, either one that you flip open or one -[2763.20 --> 2771.56] that you flick open, and we can have that together. Before I begin with the text, -[2772.56 --> 2778.98] I was thinking about this week and the kinds of things that we're doing here together, and -[2780.24 --> 2787.50] the work of preaching through the Psalms and exploring our emotions, and I was reminded of a -[2787.50 --> 2794.80] story. This happened to Rachel and I and my wife a number of years ago. I think actually I was trying -[2794.80 --> 2800.74] to place it when we were living in Grand Rapids, so that's like 20 years ago. I'm getting old. -[2801.64 --> 2803.00] That just hit me. -[2806.20 --> 2808.96] Whatever, it says someone older than me. Grave, thank you. -[2810.24 --> 2818.86] So we were walking through a mall, just casually out for a walk. We haven't been casually out for -[2818.86 --> 2825.00] a walk to a mall since we had kids, but here we were walking through this mall, and we were just -[2825.00 --> 2831.78] chatting away, and then off in front of us, coming around a corner, you know how malls are sort of -[2831.78 --> 2839.06] arranged like labyrinthianly, so you get lost in them. Anyway, this older woman came around the -[2839.06 --> 2846.38] corner. She must have been 70, 75 years old, and she started walking, and as she walked by, everybody -[2846.38 --> 2853.36] kind of kept looking at her, and we were like, what's going on? And then she got in front of us, and -[2853.36 --> 2863.98] somehow she was wearing this like long, flowy skirt, and somehow, I'm assuming when she had gone to the -[2863.98 --> 2872.60] bathroom previously, the back of her skirt got stuck in the top of her underwear. So here's a 75-year-old -[2872.60 --> 2878.52] woman walking through the mall with her, I mean, I don't know what you call it anymore, but when we -[2878.52 --> 2884.08] were kids, we called them granny panties, like just hanging out for everyone to see, and it was -[2884.08 --> 2889.64] kind of embarrassing, and it was a little awkward, right? And people were looking and talking and -[2889.64 --> 2895.66] whispering and not sure, should we go and talk, and no one's saying anything. So finally, Rachel, because -[2895.66 --> 2900.24] she's super gracious and can enter into moments like that, walks up beside this woman and puts her -[2900.24 --> 2905.90] hand on her shoulder and just whispers, your dress is stuck in your underwear, and then she tries to -[2905.90 --> 2910.54] get it out and can't get it, so Rachel has to help her get it out. Anyway, it got clear, but it was awkward, -[2910.54 --> 2920.66] right? And it was weird. Now, what made it even more awkward is that before Rachel went over to help -[2920.66 --> 2928.94] her get it out, she stopped to tie her shoe, and that's what did it. That's when we went over and we, -[2930.54 --> 2940.06] why do I share this story? Good question, right? Sometimes we need people -[2940.06 --> 2948.84] to help us see things that we're blind to, and sometimes it's really awkward and hard to have -[2948.84 --> 2953.26] those kinds of conversations. Now, that may be a funny anecdote about that, but the reality is -[2953.26 --> 2959.52] sometimes someone comes along and tells us something about ourself or about what's going on in our life, -[2959.52 --> 2967.62] and we don't really want to hear it, and it's awkward, and it's embarrassing, or it's hard. -[2967.62 --> 2975.82] This series through the Psalms and talking about our emotions may be that for some of you. -[2978.40 --> 2984.52] Right? The things that we're talking about here are real, and they are raw, and for some, -[2984.82 --> 2993.48] you may want to talk after, and I just pray that you find someone, whether it's me or Pastor Kevin, -[2993.48 --> 3004.14] or it's a care group or an elder. What I know and believe is that God is going to speak this morning, -[3004.14 --> 3012.36] and that when his word goes out, it accomplishes the purpose for which he sends it, and so if we -[3012.36 --> 3016.80] need to talk together, or if you need to process that, or if you need to have someone come alongside -[3016.80 --> 3026.06] you, I just pray that you would hear that and set something up. Now, as we enter into this Psalm, -[3027.20 --> 3030.82] let's read together from Psalm 77. -[3030.82 --> 3060.80] Psalm 77. -[3060.82 --> 3090.80] Psalm 77. -[3090.80 --> 3098.72] Has his unfailing love vanished forever? Has his promise failed for all time? Has God forgotten -[3098.72 --> 3106.06] to be merciful? Has he, in anger, withheld his compassion? -[3108.80 --> 3110.10] This is the word of the Lord. -[3110.10 --> 3122.14] Now, this is one of those psalms that if you have the ears to hear it as you read it, or at least as I read it, -[3122.82 --> 3126.40] my heart breaks for the psalmist. -[3126.40 --> 3156.38] There is a crying out that takes place here, and in fact, it's a crying out that I know that some of you are living in the midst of right now. Some of you are sharing right now. And the reality here is that if I know that some of you are struggling with it, you can believe and you can bet that there are others whom we don't know about, but who are nonetheless right here with Asaph, who is the psalmist. -[3156.40 --> 3186.40] He writes this. -[3186.40 --> 3194.18] That's what we're saying. That's what we feel. And then finally, what are we supposed to do instead, or what are we supposed to avoid? -[3194.18 --> 3203.94] And so we are experiencing and looking at sorrow and heartbreak. And you can hear the words of the psalmist again, right? -[3204.18 --> 3207.30] I cried out to God for help. -[3209.06 --> 3216.44] Now, we don't know the exact situation of Asaph in this time, but we can extrapolate a few things. -[3216.44 --> 3226.10] And so we can make a pretty informed guess as to what's going on based on where this psalm is located in the Psalter. -[3227.44 --> 3231.50] The first 11 psalms of book 3, which is this. -[3231.56 --> 3236.48] If you flip back a few pages, you can see the Psalter is broken up into book 1, 2, 3, 4. -[3236.48 --> 3249.06] And then this psalm, and particularly in that section, Psalm 74, helps us see that maybe what's going on here is Asaph, as an Israelite, -[3249.86 --> 3254.10] is reflecting on his experience of the exile, right? -[3254.14 --> 3259.58] His experience of the Babylonians marching down from the north and just destroying Jerusalem. -[3259.58 --> 3268.62] Now, if you know the history, in 586 BC, the Babylonian army, right, led by Nebuchadnezzar, marched down, come to Israel, -[3268.92 --> 3274.58] and they destroyed Jerusalem, and they lay to waste the temple on the top of the mountain. -[3275.52 --> 3280.88] Now, the temple is the crown jewel of Hebrew religion and society. -[3281.88 --> 3284.96] The first temple, we call it because they did rebuild eventually, -[3284.96 --> 3290.68] the first temple, the one built by Solomon, was magnificent and beyond compare. -[3292.06 --> 3295.26] In fact, there's a story told in the book of Ezra, -[3296.08 --> 3301.56] that even as the second temple was being built, 70 years later, after the exile, -[3302.12 --> 3306.56] and people are celebrating the end of the exile and their return to the land, -[3306.90 --> 3310.96] there are some who are old enough to have seen the first temple, -[3310.96 --> 3313.44] and even as they're looking at the new foundations, -[3313.86 --> 3316.22] even as they're celebrating the temple walls going up, -[3316.30 --> 3319.22] these people who remember the old temple weep -[3319.22 --> 3323.70] because it just paled in comparison. -[3326.34 --> 3333.14] The point is that Asaph is probably sometime before the rebuild, -[3333.14 --> 3337.18] and so you can picture him standing in the rubble, -[3337.88 --> 3340.84] in the ruins of the temple, -[3341.44 --> 3345.56] and it feels to him in that moment as he looks around, right, -[3345.64 --> 3351.46] the dwelling place of God, the place where God resides with his people is gone, -[3351.70 --> 3355.24] and so it feels to him like God is gone. -[3355.24 --> 3359.56] I cried out to God for help. -[3360.12 --> 3362.88] I cried out to God to hear me. -[3364.00 --> 3369.78] Not only does he need help, but he doesn't feel heard in his need. -[3370.80 --> 3371.68] Do you know that feeling? -[3373.04 --> 3375.40] Right, where you just don't understand. -[3375.94 --> 3377.66] You're not hearing what I'm saying. -[3377.66 --> 3383.86] And then, Asaph does everything right. -[3385.42 --> 3386.60] Look at verse 2. -[3387.88 --> 3390.56] When I was in distress, I sought the Lord. -[3391.88 --> 3395.40] At night, I stretched out untiring hands. -[3396.56 --> 3400.50] He's in distress, he needs help, and he craves to be heard, -[3400.82 --> 3402.04] and so he goes to God. -[3403.44 --> 3407.24] That phrase, at night, I stretched out untiring hands, -[3407.98 --> 3410.26] that's a posture of prayer. -[3411.98 --> 3415.28] There's a story in Exodus 17 -[3415.28 --> 3419.14] where the Israelites are wandering through the Sinai Peninsula, -[3419.36 --> 3421.98] and they're being harangued by the Amalekites throughout, -[3422.16 --> 3423.56] and there's a battle that takes place -[3423.56 --> 3426.78] between the Israelites and the Amalekites. -[3427.76 --> 3430.82] And Moses is standing on a ridge overlooking this battle, -[3430.82 --> 3434.46] and as long as Moses is stretching out his hands, -[3434.88 --> 3436.64] the Israelites are winning the battle. -[3437.24 --> 3441.26] They're able to defeat the superior enemy that is the Amalekites. -[3441.34 --> 3444.72] But as Moses gets tired and his hands start to fall, -[3445.14 --> 3446.80] the Israelites are losing the battle. -[3447.82 --> 3450.70] And so God is with them in the battle, -[3450.80 --> 3452.60] insofar as Moses, their leader, -[3452.72 --> 3455.60] is able to pray and hold his hands up. -[3455.72 --> 3457.72] And so Aaron and Hur, -[3458.16 --> 3460.58] Moses' left and right-hand men, -[3460.94 --> 3463.68] hold up his hands for him as he gets tired. -[3463.68 --> 3468.62] Point is, that image of praying with untiring hands, -[3468.96 --> 3471.30] is Asaph's way of saying, -[3471.72 --> 3473.38] God, fight my battle. -[3476.38 --> 3479.46] Now there's also a connection in this image -[3479.46 --> 3483.16] to the story of Job and his friends, -[3483.84 --> 3486.00] and what his friends tell Job. -[3486.00 --> 3488.48] Now maybe you remember the story of Job. -[3489.08 --> 3493.18] It's a story that is told and recorded in the Bible -[3493.18 --> 3497.06] as an attempt to try and make sense -[3497.06 --> 3499.10] of why there is evil in the world. -[3500.12 --> 3500.32] Right? -[3500.38 --> 3503.60] Why bad things happen to good people. -[3504.54 --> 3507.04] Now it's worth a look if you haven't read it before, -[3507.42 --> 3509.84] but Job in that story has lost everything. -[3510.62 --> 3512.68] He's had everything taken from him by the devil. -[3512.68 --> 3512.98] Right? -[3513.64 --> 3514.98] His possessions have been taken. -[3515.34 --> 3516.72] His children have died. -[3517.02 --> 3518.16] His wife, at one point, -[3518.22 --> 3520.18] tells him to curse God and die. -[3521.14 --> 3522.50] That's how bad it gets for him. -[3523.58 --> 3526.02] And sitting in sackcloth and ashes, -[3526.56 --> 3528.98] he curses the day of his birth. -[3529.56 --> 3530.92] Says it would have been better, -[3530.96 --> 3531.72] it would have been better -[3531.72 --> 3534.06] if he'd not been born at all. -[3534.76 --> 3535.40] And he says, -[3535.40 --> 3539.02] What I feared has come upon me. -[3539.54 --> 3541.76] What I dreaded has happened to me. -[3542.12 --> 3544.28] I have no peace, no quietness. -[3544.40 --> 3547.22] I have no rest, but only turmoil. -[3548.48 --> 3549.72] Now here's the part I want you to hear. -[3551.08 --> 3552.92] Into this circumstance, -[3553.14 --> 3555.10] into this moment of Job's experience, -[3555.44 --> 3556.44] his friends come. -[3556.98 --> 3558.78] And they sit with him for a few days, -[3558.96 --> 3560.40] and then they start to speak. -[3560.70 --> 3561.98] And that's when it all goes to pop. -[3561.98 --> 3563.82] They sit with him, -[3563.86 --> 3565.68] and eventually one of them says to him, -[3567.00 --> 3568.08] this is in Job 11, -[3569.48 --> 3572.04] Yet, if you devote your heart to him, -[3572.14 --> 3572.92] that is to God, -[3573.18 --> 3575.30] if you stretch out your hands to him, -[3575.36 --> 3576.96] there's that image, right? -[3577.00 --> 3577.66] And what's he saying? -[3577.74 --> 3579.24] If you really believe, -[3579.52 --> 3581.02] if you have enough faith, -[3581.22 --> 3582.92] if you pray hard enough, -[3583.72 --> 3586.96] if you put away the sin that is in your hand, -[3587.00 --> 3589.24] and allow no evil to dwell in your tent, -[3589.24 --> 3590.06] again, right? -[3590.08 --> 3591.20] If you do good, -[3591.38 --> 3593.94] and work really hard at being obedient, -[3594.56 --> 3595.56] here's the implication, -[3595.72 --> 3596.30] or the conclusion. -[3597.10 --> 3599.54] Life will be brighter than noonday, -[3599.72 --> 3601.74] and darkness will become like morning. -[3602.38 --> 3603.66] You will be secure, -[3603.84 --> 3604.94] because there is hope. -[3605.30 --> 3606.40] You will look about you, -[3606.48 --> 3608.08] and take rest in safety. -[3608.50 --> 3609.54] You will lie down, -[3609.68 --> 3610.34] and no one, -[3610.50 --> 3611.98] with no one to make you afraid, -[3612.32 --> 3615.22] and many will count your favor. -[3615.22 --> 3621.40] Now read that back over top of Psalm 77. -[3622.54 --> 3624.04] When I was in distress, -[3624.38 --> 3625.36] I sought the Lord. -[3626.02 --> 3628.98] At night, I stretched out untiring hands. -[3629.48 --> 3630.98] I did everything right. -[3632.56 --> 3636.66] I asked God with untiring religious effort. -[3636.98 --> 3638.64] I prayed, and prayed, and prayed, -[3638.78 --> 3639.74] and I did good, -[3639.94 --> 3642.98] and I followed all the advice of Job's friends. -[3642.98 --> 3645.78] And then what does Psalm 77 has Asaph say? -[3645.86 --> 3647.08] After doing everything right, -[3648.48 --> 3652.90] I would not be comforted. -[3655.14 --> 3657.18] You said life would be better, -[3658.18 --> 3660.24] but it only got darker. -[3661.56 --> 3663.42] You said that I would have rest, -[3663.72 --> 3664.12] and hope, -[3664.24 --> 3665.30] and have nothing to fear, -[3665.58 --> 3667.68] that this would work out for my favor. -[3667.82 --> 3669.04] You said it would go away, -[3669.26 --> 3670.50] but that's not what's happening. -[3670.50 --> 3673.42] Look at verse 3. -[3675.24 --> 3676.68] I remembered you, God, -[3677.40 --> 3678.96] and I groaned. -[3680.10 --> 3682.50] Now, this isn't just a dismissive, -[3683.38 --> 3685.42] pre-teen girl, -[3685.52 --> 3687.44] rolling of the eyes kind of groaning. -[3688.48 --> 3689.34] I know that one well. -[3690.68 --> 3693.58] Isaiah and Jeremiah used this same word -[3693.58 --> 3696.98] to describe the roaring of the sea's waves. -[3696.98 --> 3699.52] They used this same word -[3699.52 --> 3701.58] to describe the growling of a bear. -[3703.00 --> 3705.12] So this groaning is a visceral, -[3705.38 --> 3707.16] guttural, soul-crushing, -[3707.48 --> 3709.80] and soul-crushed groan. -[3711.26 --> 3712.06] The psalmist goes on, -[3712.78 --> 3713.14] and he says, -[3713.76 --> 3714.54] I meditated, -[3715.08 --> 3717.26] and my spirit grew faint. -[3718.84 --> 3719.80] Now, in the Bible, -[3719.80 --> 3723.78] almost every time the word -[3723.78 --> 3725.14] meditated is used, -[3726.38 --> 3728.34] it refers to reflecting on -[3728.34 --> 3729.46] the Word of God. -[3730.48 --> 3730.94] So when he says, -[3731.06 --> 3731.66] I meditated, -[3731.76 --> 3733.32] it means he went to the Word of God. -[3733.40 --> 3734.22] He went to the Torah. -[3734.68 --> 3736.50] He dove into what God had to say. -[3736.84 --> 3737.62] I meditated, -[3737.78 --> 3739.02] and my spirit grew faint. -[3740.46 --> 3741.18] In the Bible, -[3741.50 --> 3742.08] again, right, -[3742.26 --> 3743.48] we'll zoom out a little bit here, -[3743.58 --> 3744.68] the Word of God -[3744.68 --> 3746.26] brings life. -[3747.32 --> 3748.82] Think about the very beginning -[3748.82 --> 3749.60] of the story. -[3749.92 --> 3750.68] In Genesis 1, -[3751.32 --> 3752.52] in the creation of the world, -[3752.64 --> 3753.14] God said, -[3753.38 --> 3754.20] let there be light, -[3754.32 --> 3756.68] and there was light. -[3757.50 --> 3757.70] Right? -[3757.78 --> 3758.16] God said, -[3758.28 --> 3759.10] let there be life, -[3759.16 --> 3760.38] and there was life. -[3760.52 --> 3762.54] God's Word brings life. -[3762.64 --> 3763.96] He speaks life. -[3764.82 --> 3766.70] In Ezekiel 37, -[3767.54 --> 3768.54] there's this beautiful -[3768.54 --> 3770.08] and powerful -[3770.08 --> 3772.48] illustration of this. -[3773.24 --> 3774.40] It's a story of God -[3774.40 --> 3776.18] appearing to Ezekiel -[3776.18 --> 3777.20] and showing him -[3777.20 --> 3779.80] a valley full of dry bones, -[3780.20 --> 3780.34] right, -[3780.40 --> 3781.26] in an ancient army, -[3781.46 --> 3781.82] probably. -[3783.26 --> 3784.74] And God asks Ezekiel, -[3785.12 --> 3785.50] he says, -[3785.58 --> 3786.76] can these bones live? -[3787.88 --> 3788.62] And Ezekiel says, -[3788.74 --> 3789.50] only you know, -[3789.96 --> 3790.20] God. -[3791.20 --> 3792.56] And so God tells Ezekiel, -[3792.94 --> 3794.78] prophesy to these bones. -[3795.48 --> 3796.50] And Ezekiel starts -[3796.50 --> 3797.50] prophesying to them, -[3797.62 --> 3798.18] and the bones -[3798.18 --> 3799.36] start coming together, -[3799.36 --> 3800.94] and they start standing up, -[3801.04 --> 3801.72] and then sinew, -[3801.84 --> 3802.28] and muscle, -[3802.46 --> 3802.94] and flesh -[3802.94 --> 3804.44] starts surrounding -[3804.44 --> 3805.14] these bones -[3805.14 --> 3806.12] as they stand there, -[3806.26 --> 3807.92] and then God says again to him, -[3808.22 --> 3810.02] can these bones have life? -[3810.36 --> 3811.10] And Ezekiel says, -[3811.30 --> 3811.96] only you know, -[3812.10 --> 3812.24] Lord. -[3813.02 --> 3813.80] And God says, -[3814.02 --> 3815.28] preach to these bones. -[3815.40 --> 3816.58] And so Ezekiel preaches, -[3816.86 --> 3818.12] and the spirit wind -[3818.12 --> 3818.80] blows down -[3818.80 --> 3819.80] through that valley, -[3820.04 --> 3822.18] and these beings -[3822.18 --> 3824.00] now come back to life. -[3825.08 --> 3825.26] Right? -[3825.28 --> 3826.44] The Word of God -[3826.44 --> 3827.92] brings life. -[3828.96 --> 3829.98] And all of this -[3829.98 --> 3831.16] sort of anticipates, -[3831.16 --> 3832.44] for those of you -[3832.44 --> 3833.82] who have read -[3833.82 --> 3835.22] the Gospel of John, -[3835.88 --> 3838.70] Peter and the twelve -[3838.70 --> 3839.74] are walking with Jesus, -[3839.90 --> 3840.60] and a number of people -[3840.60 --> 3841.32] have left -[3841.32 --> 3842.86] and fled away -[3842.86 --> 3843.74] from helping Jesus, -[3843.90 --> 3844.72] and Jesus turns -[3844.72 --> 3845.46] to the twelve, -[3845.84 --> 3846.36] and he says, -[3846.44 --> 3847.20] are you too -[3847.20 --> 3848.68] going to leave me? -[3849.90 --> 3850.98] And Peter answers, -[3851.16 --> 3851.48] he says, -[3851.48 --> 3852.78] where shall we go, -[3853.08 --> 3853.18] Lord? -[3854.04 --> 3855.74] For you have the words -[3855.74 --> 3857.32] of eternal life. -[3858.66 --> 3859.64] The Word of God -[3859.64 --> 3861.42] is supposed to bring life, -[3861.52 --> 3863.08] but where the psalmist is, -[3863.58 --> 3864.50] I meditated, -[3864.70 --> 3865.94] and my spirit grew faint. -[3866.20 --> 3867.32] Where the psalmist is, -[3867.40 --> 3868.06] he meditates -[3868.06 --> 3869.10] on the words of God, -[3869.16 --> 3869.80] and his spirit -[3869.80 --> 3870.86] grows faint. -[3871.14 --> 3872.24] It saps him. -[3872.44 --> 3873.74] It doesn't give him life. -[3874.00 --> 3874.90] There's something going on -[3874.90 --> 3875.80] that makes it draining -[3875.80 --> 3876.74] and oppressive, -[3876.86 --> 3877.54] not filling -[3877.54 --> 3878.38] and abundant. -[3878.84 --> 3880.54] He's not in a place -[3880.54 --> 3882.56] where he can hear -[3882.56 --> 3883.70] these truths -[3883.70 --> 3885.74] as an encouragement. -[3887.10 --> 3887.54] Instead, -[3888.04 --> 3888.74] in his heart, -[3888.74 --> 3890.04] he is in a place -[3890.04 --> 3891.00] where he looks -[3891.00 --> 3891.86] at the faithfulness -[3891.86 --> 3892.34] of God, -[3892.44 --> 3893.30] he looks at the power -[3893.30 --> 3893.84] of God, -[3893.94 --> 3894.70] and he says, -[3894.92 --> 3895.68] what's up with that? -[3896.52 --> 3897.18] Why aren't you -[3897.18 --> 3898.00] doing that again? -[3899.74 --> 3900.54] Why aren't you -[3900.54 --> 3901.30] doing that here? -[3902.26 --> 3903.44] I know who you are. -[3903.52 --> 3904.14] Why aren't you -[3904.14 --> 3905.26] doing this? -[3907.58 --> 3907.92] If you -[3907.92 --> 3910.14] haven't seen it, -[3910.18 --> 3910.78] haven't figured out -[3910.78 --> 3912.04] where we're going, -[3913.04 --> 3914.34] I believe that there's -[3914.34 --> 3916.56] something of us all -[3916.56 --> 3917.22] here, -[3918.22 --> 3918.80] how we can relate -[3918.80 --> 3919.64] to this circumstance -[3919.64 --> 3920.78] and this situation. -[3921.40 --> 3922.22] We can relate -[3922.22 --> 3922.92] to the cries -[3922.92 --> 3923.76] of Asaph -[3923.76 --> 3924.98] in this moment. -[3925.32 --> 3925.96] Maybe that's you -[3925.96 --> 3926.34] right now. -[3927.62 --> 3928.36] Maybe this is -[3928.36 --> 3929.02] your voice. -[3929.86 --> 3930.56] Or maybe you are -[3930.56 --> 3931.70] remembering a time -[3931.70 --> 3933.28] when that was you. -[3933.48 --> 3934.82] But I am confident -[3934.82 --> 3935.98] that each and every -[3935.98 --> 3936.74] one of us -[3936.74 --> 3937.80] can relate to -[3937.80 --> 3938.38] what's happening -[3938.38 --> 3939.66] in this psalm. -[3939.66 --> 3945.38] Allender and Longman -[3945.38 --> 3946.76] in their book -[3946.76 --> 3947.76] The Cry of the Soul -[3947.76 --> 3949.36] have a quote -[3949.36 --> 3950.72] that cut me -[3950.72 --> 3951.72] this week. -[3951.80 --> 3952.32] And by that I mean -[3952.32 --> 3953.62] it spoke directly -[3953.62 --> 3954.84] to my heart. -[3956.06 --> 3956.52] If you were here -[3956.52 --> 3957.22] last week, -[3957.30 --> 3958.52] you will recall -[3958.52 --> 3959.24] that their book -[3959.24 --> 3960.06] The Cry of the Soul -[3960.06 --> 3960.98] is one of the books -[3960.98 --> 3961.80] that we are using -[3961.80 --> 3962.60] to help frame -[3962.60 --> 3963.48] this series -[3963.48 --> 3964.22] to provide -[3964.22 --> 3964.64] a sort of -[3964.64 --> 3965.70] biblical and spiritual -[3965.70 --> 3967.34] counseling conversation -[3967.34 --> 3968.22] about our emotions -[3968.22 --> 3969.16] and how to handle -[3969.16 --> 3969.66] them well -[3969.66 --> 3970.78] and process them -[3970.78 --> 3971.92] in faithfulness -[3971.92 --> 3972.26] to God. -[3973.08 --> 3973.66] And they write, -[3974.94 --> 3976.02] Emotions are the -[3976.02 --> 3977.12] cry of the soul. -[3977.96 --> 3978.50] They expose -[3978.50 --> 3979.40] what we are doing -[3979.40 --> 3980.04] with the sorrow -[3980.04 --> 3980.74] of life -[3980.74 --> 3982.14] and in turn -[3982.14 --> 3983.36] reveal what our -[3983.36 --> 3984.38] heart is doing -[3984.38 --> 3985.40] with God. -[3986.80 --> 3987.76] It's the second -[3987.76 --> 3988.62] half of that line -[3988.62 --> 3989.30] that gets me. -[3990.60 --> 3991.22] Our emotions -[3991.22 --> 3992.00] in turn -[3992.00 --> 3993.16] reveal what our -[3993.16 --> 3994.52] heart is doing -[3994.52 --> 3995.52] with God. -[3996.88 --> 3997.56] Psalm 77 -[3997.56 --> 3998.46] helps me see -[3998.46 --> 3999.28] how I do that. -[4000.34 --> 4000.88] How we all -[4000.88 --> 4002.14] do that. -[4003.40 --> 4004.12] When things are -[4004.12 --> 4004.90] hard -[4004.90 --> 4005.64] and the emotions -[4005.64 --> 4006.36] are big -[4006.36 --> 4007.54] and they are raw, -[4007.90 --> 4008.72] how easily -[4008.72 --> 4010.24] do we turn -[4010.24 --> 4010.82] God -[4010.82 --> 4011.76] into a kind of -[4011.76 --> 4012.96] phone-a-friend -[4012.96 --> 4013.96] helpline? -[4016.16 --> 4016.64] Right? -[4016.68 --> 4016.82] Or -[4016.82 --> 4017.82] another -[4017.82 --> 4018.72] illustration -[4018.72 --> 4019.76] that came to me -[4019.76 --> 4020.24] that -[4020.24 --> 4022.24] who among us -[4022.24 --> 4023.70] thinks of God -[4023.70 --> 4024.56] kind of like -[4024.56 --> 4025.38] a vending machine? -[4026.54 --> 4026.78] Right? -[4026.78 --> 4027.64] Where you put -[4027.64 --> 4028.46] the quarter -[4028.46 --> 4029.36] or the dollar -[4029.36 --> 4030.54] of your obedience -[4030.54 --> 4031.02] in. -[4032.22 --> 4032.44] Right? -[4032.48 --> 4033.16] And then we enter -[4033.16 --> 4033.88] in the number -[4033.88 --> 4035.18] of our right -[4035.18 --> 4035.92] prayer and -[4035.92 --> 4037.02] religious attitudes -[4037.02 --> 4037.76] and actions -[4037.76 --> 4038.98] and then we get -[4038.98 --> 4039.40] what we want -[4039.40 --> 4039.84] in return. -[4041.56 --> 4042.06] Right? -[4042.06 --> 4042.70] Remember the story -[4042.70 --> 4043.10] of Job. -[4043.94 --> 4044.82] The story that was -[4044.82 --> 4045.52] written to answer -[4045.52 --> 4046.06] the question -[4046.06 --> 4046.56] in part -[4046.56 --> 4047.26] why do bad -[4047.26 --> 4047.78] things happen -[4047.78 --> 4048.48] to good people? -[4049.66 --> 4050.48] The reason -[4050.48 --> 4051.94] that that is a -[4051.94 --> 4052.34] question -[4052.34 --> 4053.00] why do bad -[4053.00 --> 4053.42] things happen -[4053.42 --> 4054.00] to good people -[4054.00 --> 4054.68] is because -[4054.68 --> 4055.14] there is a -[4055.14 --> 4055.68] presumption -[4055.68 --> 4056.26] that exists -[4056.26 --> 4056.90] in our -[4056.90 --> 4057.54] culture -[4057.54 --> 4057.98] Christian -[4057.98 --> 4059.24] and increasingly -[4059.24 --> 4059.72] otherwise -[4059.72 --> 4060.92] that exists -[4060.92 --> 4061.66] in our culture -[4061.66 --> 4063.22] that assumes -[4063.22 --> 4065.20] that good -[4065.20 --> 4066.06] people -[4066.06 --> 4067.00] shouldn't have -[4067.00 --> 4067.58] bad things -[4067.58 --> 4068.20] happen to them. -[4069.24 --> 4069.32] Right? -[4069.34 --> 4069.90] That because -[4069.90 --> 4070.96] we do good -[4070.96 --> 4071.66] right -[4071.66 --> 4072.62] God should only -[4072.62 --> 4073.54] give us good things. -[4074.12 --> 4075.04] There's a presumption -[4075.04 --> 4075.70] that exists -[4075.70 --> 4076.28] like I said -[4076.28 --> 4077.10] in our prosperous -[4077.10 --> 4078.52] 21st century world -[4078.52 --> 4079.68] that we ought to be -[4079.68 --> 4080.20] protected -[4080.20 --> 4081.04] from hardships. -[4081.04 --> 4082.50] And maybe -[4082.50 --> 4083.08] that protection -[4083.08 --> 4083.86] comes from God -[4083.86 --> 4084.46] maybe it's from -[4084.46 --> 4084.92] family -[4084.92 --> 4085.84] maybe it's by -[4085.84 --> 4087.10] our work -[4087.10 --> 4087.84] and our efforts -[4087.84 --> 4088.58] and our labors -[4088.58 --> 4089.38] maybe it's our jobs -[4089.38 --> 4090.74] maybe it's by the government -[4090.74 --> 4092.40] either way -[4092.40 --> 4095.02] we easily -[4095.02 --> 4096.26] believe -[4096.26 --> 4097.76] that these sorts -[4097.76 --> 4098.08] of things -[4098.08 --> 4098.80] shouldn't happen. -[4103.24 --> 4103.84] Why? -[4105.68 --> 4106.80] Why should that -[4106.80 --> 4107.26] be true? -[4109.46 --> 4109.76] In fact -[4109.76 --> 4110.78] what about -[4110.78 --> 4111.80] your experience -[4111.80 --> 4112.48] of life -[4112.48 --> 4113.42] says that -[4113.42 --> 4114.24] that has to be true? -[4116.56 --> 4116.76] I mean -[4116.76 --> 4117.24] if we're honest -[4117.24 --> 4117.96] I think probably -[4117.96 --> 4118.60] the opposite -[4118.60 --> 4119.92] for most of us -[4119.92 --> 4121.40] should be true. -[4121.78 --> 4121.98] And yet -[4121.98 --> 4122.76] for some reason -[4122.76 --> 4123.84] in our heart of hearts -[4123.84 --> 4124.96] that's how we -[4124.96 --> 4125.84] see the world -[4125.84 --> 4126.74] and then -[4126.74 --> 4128.64] that's how -[4128.64 --> 4129.72] we see God. -[4131.18 --> 4131.66] Right? -[4131.72 --> 4132.56] The impact -[4132.56 --> 4133.26] of that way -[4133.26 --> 4134.08] of thinking -[4134.08 --> 4135.46] puts God -[4135.46 --> 4136.34] in our debt. -[4137.38 --> 4137.52] Right? -[4137.54 --> 4138.30] That somehow -[4138.30 --> 4139.82] we have -[4139.82 --> 4141.20] power over God -[4141.20 --> 4142.60] to manipulate him -[4142.60 --> 4144.06] and to coerce him -[4144.06 --> 4145.00] into acting -[4145.00 --> 4145.84] on our behalf. -[4146.96 --> 4147.80] Now this shows up -[4147.80 --> 4148.66] so many ways -[4148.66 --> 4149.74] in our lives. -[4151.02 --> 4151.18] Right? -[4151.26 --> 4152.26] A couple examples -[4152.26 --> 4152.88] and these are just -[4152.88 --> 4153.60] scattershot. -[4154.16 --> 4155.14] I've been good -[4155.14 --> 4156.04] all my life -[4156.04 --> 4156.74] why doesn't God -[4156.74 --> 4157.44] give me a husband? -[4159.94 --> 4160.94] I've never cheated -[4160.94 --> 4161.58] on anything. -[4162.08 --> 4163.52] I did everything right. -[4163.52 --> 4164.80] why won't God -[4164.80 --> 4165.82] get me into that school? -[4167.98 --> 4168.18] Right? -[4168.20 --> 4168.66] I've prayed -[4168.66 --> 4169.44] all the prayers -[4169.44 --> 4170.00] and I've read -[4170.00 --> 4170.86] all the scriptures. -[4171.32 --> 4171.92] I read the Bible -[4171.92 --> 4172.58] back to back -[4172.58 --> 4173.32] to back to back -[4173.32 --> 4174.08] three times -[4174.08 --> 4175.06] in one year. -[4175.42 --> 4176.02] Why didn't God -[4176.02 --> 4176.68] heal my mom? -[4179.42 --> 4180.82] If God is good -[4180.82 --> 4182.14] why would he -[4182.14 --> 4182.84] let this happen -[4182.84 --> 4183.28] to me? -[4185.30 --> 4186.14] Remember that quote -[4186.14 --> 4187.66] from Allender and Longman? -[4187.98 --> 4188.12] Right? -[4188.72 --> 4189.86] This reveals -[4189.86 --> 4190.68] what our heart -[4190.68 --> 4191.38] is doing -[4191.38 --> 4192.42] with God. -[4194.32 --> 4195.22] And at best -[4195.22 --> 4196.84] this way of thinking -[4196.84 --> 4197.82] about our struggles -[4197.82 --> 4198.62] and our hardships -[4198.62 --> 4199.92] turns God -[4199.92 --> 4201.20] into a heavenly -[4201.20 --> 4201.92] grandparent -[4201.92 --> 4202.68] whose job it is -[4202.68 --> 4203.52] to spoil us. -[4203.80 --> 4204.44] At worst -[4204.44 --> 4206.08] it removes God -[4206.08 --> 4207.18] as God -[4207.18 --> 4208.22] and puts us -[4208.22 --> 4209.12] in his place. -[4211.46 --> 4211.86] And so -[4211.86 --> 4214.40] and here's the -[4214.40 --> 4215.14] counseling part -[4215.14 --> 4215.96] that comes in. -[4217.40 --> 4218.54] How do you know -[4218.54 --> 4220.24] when you are doing -[4220.24 --> 4221.26] this in your own heart? -[4222.16 --> 4223.16] How do you know -[4223.16 --> 4223.86] when this is what's -[4223.86 --> 4225.32] shaping your mind -[4225.32 --> 4225.88] and attitude -[4225.88 --> 4226.88] about God? -[4227.30 --> 4228.00] And to answer that -[4228.00 --> 4229.64] we have to look at -[4229.64 --> 4231.06] what comes next. -[4231.28 --> 4232.10] So what comes next -[4232.10 --> 4232.66] in the psalm -[4232.66 --> 4233.86] and what comes next -[4233.86 --> 4234.86] in our own lives -[4234.86 --> 4235.84] as we're operating -[4235.84 --> 4236.62] out of this way -[4236.62 --> 4237.08] of seeing -[4237.08 --> 4237.94] and being -[4237.94 --> 4239.00] in the world. -[4239.26 --> 4240.04] So first the psalm. -[4240.70 --> 4241.00] Look -[4241.00 --> 4242.70] look at verse 7 -[4242.70 --> 4244.84] in Psalm 77 -[4244.84 --> 4246.58] and as I read this again -[4246.58 --> 4247.76] pay attention -[4247.76 --> 4249.36] to the adverbs -[4249.36 --> 4252.74] will the Lord -[4252.74 --> 4253.56] reject me -[4253.56 --> 4255.82] forever? -[4257.82 --> 4258.60] Will he -[4258.60 --> 4260.02] never -[4260.02 --> 4261.54] show his face -[4261.54 --> 4261.90] again? -[4262.62 --> 4263.16] Has his -[4263.16 --> 4264.20] unfailing love -[4264.20 --> 4264.82] vanished -[4264.82 --> 4266.00] forever? -[4266.14 --> 4267.14] Has his promise -[4267.14 --> 4267.94] failed -[4267.94 --> 4269.02] for all -[4269.02 --> 4270.32] time? -[4270.32 --> 4274.58] never -[4274.58 --> 4276.42] forever -[4276.42 --> 4277.82] for all -[4277.82 --> 4278.28] time? -[4278.78 --> 4279.80] That's the language -[4279.80 --> 4281.56] of absolutes. -[4281.56 --> 4283.78] when we are -[4283.78 --> 4285.28] projecting on God -[4285.28 --> 4286.58] a way -[4286.58 --> 4288.40] that we believe -[4288.40 --> 4289.06] he should be -[4289.06 --> 4289.80] operating in the -[4289.80 --> 4290.10] world -[4290.10 --> 4290.82] and then he -[4290.82 --> 4291.52] doesn't do it -[4291.52 --> 4292.28] he doesn't act -[4292.28 --> 4293.06] according to our -[4293.06 --> 4293.38] will -[4293.38 --> 4294.88] that disappointment -[4294.88 --> 4296.50] has a tendency -[4296.50 --> 4298.18] to then exaggerate -[4298.18 --> 4299.08] and to draw -[4299.08 --> 4300.36] absolute -[4300.36 --> 4301.34] conclusions. -[4302.72 --> 4303.70] And then -[4303.70 --> 4304.80] because they are -[4304.80 --> 4305.34] absolute -[4305.34 --> 4306.24] by definition -[4306.24 --> 4306.68] they are -[4306.68 --> 4307.66] unchanging -[4307.66 --> 4308.54] and because -[4308.54 --> 4309.24] that means -[4309.24 --> 4310.34] that this reality -[4310.34 --> 4311.08] in front of us -[4311.08 --> 4312.32] is impossible -[4312.32 --> 4313.20] to change -[4313.20 --> 4314.14] we become -[4314.14 --> 4314.72] cynical -[4314.72 --> 4317.34] and apathetic. -[4318.50 --> 4319.38] I want to say -[4319.38 --> 4319.76] that again -[4319.76 --> 4320.50] because this is -[4320.50 --> 4320.92] the line -[4320.92 --> 4322.72] when we are -[4322.72 --> 4324.04] projecting on God -[4324.04 --> 4324.64] a way -[4324.64 --> 4326.26] that we believe -[4326.26 --> 4326.80] he should be -[4326.80 --> 4327.44] operating in the -[4327.44 --> 4327.72] world -[4327.72 --> 4328.38] and then he -[4328.38 --> 4328.92] doesn't do it -[4328.92 --> 4329.56] according to our -[4329.56 --> 4329.78] will -[4329.78 --> 4331.04] we become -[4331.04 --> 4331.50] cynical -[4331.50 --> 4333.32] and apathetic. -[4335.12 --> 4336.44] Now apathy -[4336.44 --> 4337.50] and apathetic -[4337.50 --> 4338.66] is not caring -[4338.66 --> 4340.00] right -[4340.00 --> 4341.76] someone -[4341.76 --> 4342.58] has said -[4342.58 --> 4343.14] that the -[4343.14 --> 4343.72] opposite of -[4343.72 --> 4344.32] love -[4344.32 --> 4345.30] isn't hate -[4345.30 --> 4346.84] it's apathy -[4346.84 --> 4348.96] right -[4348.96 --> 4349.74] and cynical -[4349.74 --> 4350.84] and cynicism -[4350.84 --> 4352.00] is believing -[4352.00 --> 4352.88] that the -[4352.88 --> 4353.54] bad that -[4353.54 --> 4354.12] is -[4354.12 --> 4355.76] is just -[4355.76 --> 4356.04] the way -[4356.04 --> 4356.54] it is -[4356.54 --> 4359.02] but it -[4359.02 --> 4359.34] can't be -[4359.34 --> 4359.70] changed. -[4361.10 --> 4361.68] Now hold -[4361.68 --> 4362.26] that same -[4362.26 --> 4362.70] lens -[4362.70 --> 4363.38] up to -[4363.38 --> 4363.96] your own -[4363.96 --> 4364.98] life -[4364.98 --> 4366.78] first -[4366.78 --> 4367.80] as you -[4367.80 --> 4368.06] do that -[4368.06 --> 4368.32] let me -[4368.32 --> 4368.58] say -[4368.58 --> 4369.10] that it -[4369.10 --> 4369.58] is okay -[4369.58 --> 4370.34] to struggle -[4370.34 --> 4371.14] and it -[4371.14 --> 4371.60] is okay -[4371.60 --> 4372.24] to doubt -[4372.24 --> 4372.58] and it -[4372.58 --> 4373.00] is okay -[4373.00 --> 4373.56] to ask -[4373.56 --> 4374.48] questions -[4374.48 --> 4375.36] it is okay -[4375.36 --> 4375.90] to struggle -[4375.90 --> 4376.50] with God -[4376.50 --> 4376.84] and to -[4376.84 --> 4377.28] doubt -[4377.28 --> 4377.84] with God -[4377.84 --> 4378.14] and to -[4378.14 --> 4378.36] ask -[4378.36 --> 4378.84] questions -[4378.84 --> 4379.54] of God -[4379.54 --> 4379.96] I believe -[4379.96 --> 4380.54] the Psalms -[4380.54 --> 4380.92] make that -[4380.92 --> 4381.54] abundantly -[4381.54 --> 4381.94] clear -[4381.94 --> 4382.44] right -[4382.44 --> 4382.98] it's even -[4382.98 --> 4383.38] okay -[4383.38 --> 4383.76] in the -[4383.76 --> 4383.96] midst -[4383.96 --> 4384.34] of that -[4384.34 --> 4385.16] to feel -[4385.16 --> 4385.66] a certain -[4385.66 --> 4385.94] measure -[4385.94 --> 4386.64] of despair -[4386.64 --> 4387.70] as you -[4387.70 --> 4387.94] do -[4387.94 --> 4390.52] but if -[4390.52 --> 4390.76] we are -[4390.76 --> 4391.24] operating -[4391.24 --> 4391.62] with the -[4391.62 --> 4392.22] wrong idea -[4392.22 --> 4392.64] of who -[4392.64 --> 4392.94] God -[4392.94 --> 4393.36] is -[4393.36 --> 4393.62] that -[4393.62 --> 4394.16] despair -[4394.16 --> 4394.72] will -[4394.72 --> 4395.14] quickly -[4395.14 --> 4395.72] become -[4395.72 --> 4396.54] apathy -[4396.54 --> 4398.26] and your -[4398.26 --> 4398.72] feelings -[4398.72 --> 4399.44] and your -[4399.44 --> 4399.90] questions -[4399.90 --> 4400.46] of doubt -[4400.46 --> 4401.32] and skepticism -[4401.32 --> 4402.08] will quickly -[4402.08 --> 4402.78] transform -[4402.78 --> 4404.40] into cynicism -[4404.40 --> 4407.04] apathy -[4407.04 --> 4408.22] and cynicism -[4408.22 --> 4409.04] are closely -[4409.04 --> 4410.34] related together -[4410.34 --> 4411.12] and they -[4411.12 --> 4411.68] have the -[4411.68 --> 4412.46] impact -[4412.46 --> 4413.02] in us -[4413.02 --> 4414.32] of creating -[4414.32 --> 4416.24] or engendering -[4416.24 --> 4416.80] a sort of -[4416.80 --> 4418.12] under functioning -[4418.12 --> 4418.92] response -[4418.92 --> 4420.16] to put it -[4420.16 --> 4420.56] simply -[4420.56 --> 4421.92] apathy -[4421.92 --> 4422.80] and cynicism -[4422.80 --> 4423.36] mean -[4423.36 --> 4424.16] we give -[4424.16 --> 4424.50] up -[4424.50 --> 4427.18] and so -[4427.18 --> 4427.34] now -[4427.34 --> 4427.64] look at -[4427.64 --> 4427.90] your own -[4427.90 --> 4428.20] life -[4428.20 --> 4431.38] if your -[4431.38 --> 4432.06] default -[4432.06 --> 4433.30] when you -[4433.30 --> 4433.54] face -[4433.54 --> 4434.14] hardships -[4434.14 --> 4434.92] when you -[4434.92 --> 4435.10] face -[4435.10 --> 4435.62] struggles -[4435.62 --> 4436.44] or sorrow -[4436.44 --> 4437.18] or despair -[4437.18 --> 4438.24] is to -[4438.24 --> 4438.82] give up -[4438.82 --> 4440.22] ask -[4440.22 --> 4440.72] yourself -[4440.72 --> 4442.18] where are -[4442.18 --> 4442.60] apathy -[4442.60 --> 4443.22] and cynicism -[4443.22 --> 4443.84] showing up -[4443.84 --> 4445.26] ask -[4445.26 --> 4445.62] yourself -[4445.62 --> 4445.80] are -[4445.80 --> 4446.60] apathy -[4446.60 --> 4447.54] and cynicism -[4447.54 --> 4448.06] in my -[4448.06 --> 4448.48] heart -[4448.48 --> 4449.20] because of -[4449.20 --> 4449.54] what I -[4449.54 --> 4449.72] am -[4449.72 --> 4450.12] really -[4450.12 --> 4450.72] genuinely -[4450.72 --> 4451.02] what I -[4451.02 --> 4451.12] am -[4451.12 --> 4452.06] functionally -[4452.06 --> 4452.90] believing -[4452.90 --> 4453.76] about God -[4453.76 --> 4454.12] and who -[4454.12 --> 4454.68] God is -[4454.68 --> 4456.18] now notice -[4456.18 --> 4456.84] the distinction -[4456.84 --> 4457.32] I'm making -[4457.32 --> 4457.80] there because -[4457.80 --> 4458.86] most of us -[4458.86 --> 4460.46] here know -[4460.46 --> 4461.34] the biblical -[4461.34 --> 4461.96] truth about -[4461.96 --> 4462.34] who God -[4462.34 --> 4462.62] is -[4462.62 --> 4464.30] many of us -[4464.30 --> 4464.78] here have -[4464.78 --> 4465.16] the right -[4465.16 --> 4466.10] ideas -[4466.10 --> 4467.10] about -[4467.10 --> 4467.84] who God -[4467.84 --> 4468.14] is -[4468.14 --> 4469.90] but we -[4469.90 --> 4470.66] live -[4470.66 --> 4471.60] out of that -[4471.60 --> 4472.10] other way -[4472.10 --> 4474.28] we're stuck -[4474.28 --> 4475.68] in our -[4475.68 --> 4475.88] own -[4475.88 --> 4476.42] ideas -[4476.42 --> 4477.14] about -[4477.14 --> 4477.30] who -[4477.30 --> 4477.54] God -[4477.54 --> 4477.88] ought -[4477.88 --> 4478.10] to -[4478.10 --> 4478.42] be -[4478.42 --> 4485.40] maybe -[4485.40 --> 4485.72] this is -[4485.72 --> 4485.94] how you -[4485.94 --> 4486.14] need to -[4486.14 --> 4486.36] see it -[4486.36 --> 4486.70] this morning -[4486.70 --> 4489.80] in his -[4489.80 --> 4490.14] death on -[4490.14 --> 4490.62] the cross -[4490.62 --> 4491.56] but also -[4491.56 --> 4491.86] in his -[4491.86 --> 4492.18] life -[4492.18 --> 4493.44] our Lord -[4493.44 --> 4493.72] Jesus -[4493.72 --> 4494.42] faced -[4494.42 --> 4495.48] despair -[4495.48 --> 4497.18] he knew -[4497.18 --> 4498.30] hardship -[4498.30 --> 4500.00] he wept -[4500.00 --> 4501.00] and he -[4501.00 --> 4501.90] cried out -[4501.90 --> 4502.72] to God -[4502.72 --> 4503.22] with his -[4503.22 --> 4503.66] friends -[4503.66 --> 4504.04] and on -[4504.04 --> 4504.62] behalf of -[4504.62 --> 4504.94] those -[4504.94 --> 4505.52] whom he -[4505.52 --> 4505.84] loved -[4505.84 --> 4506.68] and on -[4506.68 --> 4507.28] behalf of -[4507.28 --> 4507.78] strangers -[4507.78 --> 4508.72] and enemies -[4508.72 --> 4509.48] he wept -[4509.48 --> 4510.44] for them -[4510.44 --> 4511.54] Jesus -[4511.54 --> 4512.24] knew -[4512.24 --> 4513.10] anguish -[4513.10 --> 4514.34] and struggle -[4514.34 --> 4515.26] and from -[4515.26 --> 4515.96] the cross -[4515.96 --> 4516.26] right -[4516.26 --> 4516.86] he cried -[4516.86 --> 4517.16] out -[4517.16 --> 4517.96] my God -[4517.96 --> 4518.48] my God -[4518.48 --> 4519.20] why have -[4519.20 --> 4519.92] you forsaken -[4519.92 --> 4520.24] me -[4520.24 --> 4521.68] that's a -[4521.68 --> 4522.10] quote from -[4522.10 --> 4522.98] Psalm 22 -[4522.98 --> 4523.76] and it -[4523.76 --> 4524.40] sounds pretty -[4524.40 --> 4525.12] familiar to -[4525.12 --> 4525.46] some of the -[4525.46 --> 4525.84] words in -[4525.84 --> 4526.50] Psalm 77 -[4526.50 --> 4527.16] does it -[4527.16 --> 4527.38] not -[4527.38 --> 4530.74] look I -[4530.74 --> 4531.26] love the -[4531.26 --> 4532.30] I love the -[4532.30 --> 4532.82] way the -[4532.82 --> 4533.60] Heidelberg -[4533.60 --> 4534.22] Catechism -[4534.22 --> 4535.06] summarizes -[4535.06 --> 4535.70] this truth -[4535.70 --> 4537.10] the Heidelberg -[4537.10 --> 4537.58] Catechism -[4537.58 --> 4538.02] for those of -[4538.02 --> 4538.18] you who -[4538.18 --> 4538.56] don't know -[4538.56 --> 4538.88] is a -[4538.88 --> 4540.42] it's one -[4540.42 --> 4540.64] of the -[4540.64 --> 4541.30] three forms -[4541.30 --> 4541.78] of unity -[4541.78 --> 4542.32] it's a -[4542.32 --> 4542.68] document -[4542.68 --> 4543.20] that our -[4543.20 --> 4543.50] church -[4543.50 --> 4544.04] tradition -[4544.04 --> 4544.50] sort of -[4544.50 --> 4545.26] holds up -[4545.26 --> 4545.74] as an -[4545.74 --> 4546.18] accurate -[4546.18 --> 4546.64] and -[4546.64 --> 4547.36] succinct -[4547.36 --> 4547.90] summary -[4547.90 --> 4548.54] of the -[4548.54 --> 4548.92] Christian -[4548.92 --> 4549.40] faith -[4549.40 --> 4550.36] particularly -[4550.36 --> 4550.86] in the -[4550.86 --> 4551.36] reformed -[4551.36 --> 4551.64] tradition -[4551.64 --> 4551.92] it was -[4551.92 --> 4552.14] written -[4552.14 --> 4552.52] in the -[4552.52 --> 4553.00] 16th -[4553.00 --> 4553.30] century -[4553.30 --> 4554.02] and it's -[4554.02 --> 4554.30] structured -[4554.30 --> 4554.84] in question -[4554.84 --> 4555.28] and answer -[4555.28 --> 4555.64] some of -[4555.64 --> 4555.86] you know -[4555.86 --> 4556.08] that -[4556.08 --> 4557.88] it has -[4557.88 --> 4558.46] a question -[4558.46 --> 4559.98] a question -[4559.98 --> 4560.26] and answer -[4560.26 --> 4560.84] 44 -[4560.84 --> 4561.34] it says -[4561.34 --> 4561.90] what does -[4561.90 --> 4562.44] it mean -[4562.44 --> 4562.96] that Jesus -[4562.96 --> 4563.60] descended -[4563.60 --> 4564.36] into hell -[4564.36 --> 4564.96] which is a -[4564.96 --> 4565.36] line from -[4565.36 --> 4565.90] the Apostles -[4565.90 --> 4566.16] Creed -[4566.16 --> 4566.82] and then it -[4566.82 --> 4567.28] gives this -[4567.28 --> 4567.58] answer -[4567.58 --> 4568.08] you can see -[4568.08 --> 4569.06] it there -[4569.06 --> 4569.90] right -[4569.90 --> 4571.50] by suffering -[4571.50 --> 4572.66] unspeakable -[4572.66 --> 4573.28] anguish -[4573.28 --> 4573.72] pain -[4573.72 --> 4574.28] and terror -[4574.28 --> 4574.86] of soul -[4574.86 --> 4575.54] on the cross -[4575.54 --> 4576.32] but also -[4576.32 --> 4576.72] earlier -[4576.72 --> 4577.44] Jesus has -[4577.44 --> 4578.10] delivered me -[4578.10 --> 4578.78] from hellish -[4578.78 --> 4579.54] anguish -[4579.54 --> 4580.14] and torment -[4580.14 --> 4581.50] and the line -[4581.50 --> 4581.84] that I want -[4581.84 --> 4582.18] to highlight -[4582.18 --> 4582.62] there is -[4582.62 --> 4583.76] that unspeakable -[4583.76 --> 4584.34] anguish -[4584.34 --> 4585.06] pain -[4585.06 --> 4586.02] and terror -[4586.02 --> 4586.72] of soul -[4586.72 --> 4587.44] Jesus -[4587.44 --> 4588.32] knew -[4588.32 --> 4589.34] anguish -[4589.34 --> 4590.06] pain -[4590.06 --> 4590.68] and terror -[4590.68 --> 4591.14] of soul -[4591.14 --> 4591.80] he knew -[4591.80 --> 4592.54] despair -[4592.54 --> 4593.60] and sorrow -[4593.60 --> 4594.92] but he -[4594.92 --> 4595.88] never gave -[4595.88 --> 4596.28] up -[4596.28 --> 4597.64] right -[4597.64 --> 4598.14] apathy -[4598.14 --> 4599.02] never settled -[4599.02 --> 4599.70] in his heart -[4599.70 --> 4600.50] cynicism -[4600.50 --> 4601.36] never became -[4601.36 --> 4601.78] his way -[4601.78 --> 4602.14] of seeing -[4602.14 --> 4602.52] the world -[4602.52 --> 4603.48] can you imagine -[4603.48 --> 4604.42] if it had -[4604.42 --> 4606.86] can you imagine -[4606.86 --> 4607.40] what it would mean -[4607.40 --> 4607.70] for us -[4607.70 --> 4608.12] if it did -[4608.12 --> 4608.28] right -[4608.28 --> 4609.28] first of all -[4609.28 --> 4609.90] if it did -[4609.90 --> 4610.30] then Jesus -[4610.30 --> 4610.80] wouldn't have -[4610.80 --> 4611.52] gone to the cross -[4611.52 --> 4611.92] he would have -[4611.92 --> 4612.38] stepped down -[4612.38 --> 4612.70] he would have -[4612.70 --> 4613.20] saved himself -[4613.20 --> 4613.66] as he was -[4613.66 --> 4614.54] tempted to do -[4614.54 --> 4614.82] right -[4614.82 --> 4615.76] we would still -[4615.76 --> 4616.48] be in our -[4616.48 --> 4617.40] sin and death -[4617.40 --> 4619.22] and if he had -[4619.22 --> 4620.06] not gone to the cross -[4620.06 --> 4621.04] we would still be -[4621.04 --> 4621.84] under our -[4621.84 --> 4622.84] punishment for sin -[4622.84 --> 4623.68] but perhaps -[4623.68 --> 4624.82] even more -[4624.82 --> 4625.46] heartbreaking -[4625.46 --> 4627.16] is that if he -[4627.16 --> 4627.96] didn't see it -[4627.96 --> 4628.32] through -[4628.32 --> 4629.42] if he did -[4629.42 --> 4630.04] give up -[4630.04 --> 4630.66] if he let -[4630.66 --> 4631.18] apathy -[4631.18 --> 4632.12] and cynicism -[4632.12 --> 4632.44] win -[4632.44 --> 4633.40] that would mean -[4633.40 --> 4633.88] that he -[4633.88 --> 4634.92] either isn't -[4634.92 --> 4635.32] God -[4635.32 --> 4637.08] or worse -[4637.08 --> 4637.52] yet -[4637.52 --> 4638.28] it would mean -[4638.28 --> 4638.92] that God -[4638.92 --> 4639.46] gives up -[4639.46 --> 4642.32] it means -[4642.32 --> 4642.72] that God -[4642.72 --> 4643.42] lets apathy -[4643.42 --> 4644.84] and cynicism -[4644.84 --> 4645.16] win -[4645.16 --> 4646.56] but I don't -[4646.56 --> 4647.12] know about you -[4647.12 --> 4648.66] that's just -[4648.66 --> 4649.22] not the God -[4649.22 --> 4649.66] of the Bible -[4649.66 --> 4650.16] I read -[4650.16 --> 4651.76] right -[4651.76 --> 4652.36] God doesn't -[4652.36 --> 4652.68] give up -[4652.68 --> 4653.10] he doesn't -[4653.10 --> 4653.68] let apathy -[4653.68 --> 4654.66] and cynicism -[4654.66 --> 4655.22] win -[4655.22 --> 4656.50] and if our -[4656.50 --> 4657.14] God will -[4657.14 --> 4657.86] never give -[4657.86 --> 4658.28] up -[4658.28 --> 4659.66] maybe -[4659.66 --> 4660.86] just maybe -[4660.86 --> 4661.34] it means -[4661.34 --> 4661.88] neither should -[4661.88 --> 4662.14] we -[4662.14 --> 4663.94] now you -[4663.94 --> 4664.30] might hear -[4664.30 --> 4664.52] that -[4664.52 --> 4664.92] and I'm -[4664.92 --> 4665.44] anticipating -[4665.44 --> 4665.64] this -[4665.64 --> 4665.90] you might -[4665.90 --> 4666.18] hear that -[4666.18 --> 4666.34] and you -[4666.34 --> 4666.50] say -[4666.50 --> 4667.10] but I'm -[4667.10 --> 4667.80] not Jesus -[4667.80 --> 4669.48] yes and amen -[4669.48 --> 4670.16] I know it -[4670.16 --> 4671.40] right -[4671.40 --> 4672.02] that's absolutely -[4672.02 --> 4672.46] true -[4672.46 --> 4673.14] you're not -[4673.14 --> 4673.68] and that was -[4673.68 --> 4674.06] part of our -[4674.06 --> 4674.62] point earlier -[4674.62 --> 4674.94] right -[4674.94 --> 4675.66] that you -[4675.66 --> 4675.98] are not -[4675.98 --> 4676.22] God -[4676.22 --> 4676.46] and we -[4676.46 --> 4676.74] cannot -[4676.74 --> 4677.34] replace -[4677.34 --> 4678.10] God -[4678.10 --> 4678.44] with a -[4678.44 --> 4678.60] God -[4678.60 --> 4678.90] of our -[4678.90 --> 4679.42] own -[4679.42 --> 4679.76] making -[4679.76 --> 4681.44] but -[4681.44 --> 4682.50] and this -[4682.50 --> 4682.82] is so -[4682.82 --> 4683.22] important -[4683.22 --> 4683.90] for our -[4683.90 --> 4684.40] conversation -[4684.40 --> 4684.84] about how -[4684.84 --> 4685.24] we handle -[4685.24 --> 4685.78] our emotions -[4685.78 --> 4686.16] and our -[4686.16 --> 4686.54] functioning -[4686.54 --> 4687.20] in the -[4687.20 --> 4687.46] world -[4687.46 --> 4687.98] because in -[4687.98 --> 4688.20] a very -[4688.20 --> 4688.96] real sense -[4688.96 --> 4689.30] in a very -[4689.30 --> 4689.70] real -[4689.70 --> 4690.22] spiritual -[4690.22 --> 4690.76] sense -[4690.76 --> 4691.36] in a very -[4691.36 --> 4692.02] real sense -[4692.02 --> 4692.30] that will -[4692.30 --> 4692.78] be affirmed -[4692.78 --> 4693.14] for us -[4693.14 --> 4693.40] at the -[4693.40 --> 4693.74] table -[4693.74 --> 4694.40] in a few -[4694.40 --> 4694.88] moments -[4694.88 --> 4695.36] right -[4695.36 --> 4695.70] in a very -[4695.70 --> 4696.28] real sense -[4696.28 --> 4696.84] you are -[4696.84 --> 4697.78] being transformed -[4697.78 --> 4698.92] into the -[4698.92 --> 4699.46] image -[4699.46 --> 4700.36] of Jesus -[4700.36 --> 4701.16] you are -[4701.16 --> 4701.50] being -[4701.50 --> 4702.68] made -[4702.68 --> 4703.72] like him -[4703.72 --> 4704.26] if you -[4704.26 --> 4704.72] believe -[4704.72 --> 4705.78] 2nd -[4705.78 --> 4706.26] Corinthians -[4706.26 --> 4706.94] 3 18 -[4706.94 --> 4708.12] and we -[4708.12 --> 4708.84] all -[4708.84 --> 4709.50] who with -[4709.50 --> 4710.26] unveiled -[4710.26 --> 4710.88] faces -[4710.88 --> 4711.66] contemplate -[4711.66 --> 4712.18] the Lord's -[4712.18 --> 4712.52] glory -[4712.52 --> 4713.28] are being -[4713.28 --> 4714.08] transformed -[4714.08 --> 4715.14] into -[4715.14 --> 4716.52] his -[4716.52 --> 4717.82] image -[4717.82 --> 4718.38] with -[4718.38 --> 4718.86] ever -[4718.86 --> 4719.86] increasing -[4719.86 --> 4720.96] glory -[4720.96 --> 4721.94] which comes -[4721.94 --> 4723.68] from the -[4723.68 --> 4723.98] Lord -[4723.98 --> 4724.92] who is -[4724.92 --> 4725.38] the Spirit -[4725.38 --> 4727.04] we are -[4727.04 --> 4727.38] being -[4727.38 --> 4728.10] transformed -[4728.10 --> 4728.84] into -[4728.84 --> 4729.42] his -[4729.42 --> 4730.26] image -[4730.26 --> 4731.04] the fruit -[4731.04 --> 4731.64] of the -[4731.64 --> 4732.16] Spirit -[4732.16 --> 4733.06] changes -[4733.06 --> 4733.52] your -[4733.52 --> 4734.08] emotions -[4734.08 --> 4734.70] and how -[4734.70 --> 4734.92] you -[4734.92 --> 4735.38] handle -[4735.38 --> 4735.72] them -[4735.72 --> 4736.74] and so -[4736.74 --> 4737.34] when apathy -[4737.34 --> 4738.26] and cynicism -[4738.26 --> 4738.90] start to -[4738.90 --> 4739.56] creep in -[4739.56 --> 4740.34] we need a -[4740.34 --> 4740.82] reminder -[4740.82 --> 4741.84] of that -[4741.84 --> 4742.50] truth -[4742.50 --> 4744.12] a reminder -[4744.12 --> 4744.74] about who -[4744.74 --> 4745.52] Jesus is -[4745.52 --> 4746.24] and what -[4746.24 --> 4746.62] he has -[4746.62 --> 4746.94] done -[4746.94 --> 4748.46] a reminder -[4748.46 --> 4749.30] about who -[4749.30 --> 4750.38] Jesus is -[4750.38 --> 4750.72] and about -[4750.72 --> 4751.26] what Jesus -[4751.26 --> 4752.52] has done -[4752.52 --> 4752.86] and what -[4752.86 --> 4753.60] that means -[4753.60 --> 4754.58] for us -[4754.58 --> 4755.06] about how -[4755.06 --> 4755.86] we function -[4755.86 --> 4756.50] in the -[4756.50 --> 4756.82] world -[4756.82 --> 4757.88] now we -[4757.88 --> 4758.20] didn't -[4758.20 --> 4759.10] read it -[4759.10 --> 4760.78] but look -[4760.78 --> 4761.20] again -[4761.20 --> 4762.30] at Psalm -[4762.30 --> 4763.20] 77 -[4763.20 --> 4763.84] this time -[4763.84 --> 4765.08] verse 13 -[4765.08 --> 4766.06] to 15 -[4766.06 --> 4768.88] your ways -[4768.88 --> 4769.36] God -[4769.36 --> 4770.56] are holy -[4770.56 --> 4772.38] what God -[4772.38 --> 4772.96] is as great -[4772.96 --> 4773.68] as our God -[4773.68 --> 4774.64] you are the -[4774.64 --> 4775.04] God who -[4775.04 --> 4775.84] performs miracles -[4775.84 --> 4776.68] you display -[4776.68 --> 4777.24] your power -[4777.24 --> 4777.70] among the -[4777.70 --> 4778.04] peoples -[4778.04 --> 4778.74] with your -[4778.74 --> 4779.48] mighty arm -[4779.48 --> 4780.18] you redeemed -[4780.18 --> 4780.72] your people -[4780.72 --> 4781.66] the descendants -[4781.66 --> 4782.44] of Jacob -[4782.44 --> 4783.72] and Joseph -[4783.72 --> 4786.28] now this is a -[4786.28 --> 4787.30] completely different -[4787.30 --> 4788.26] picture of God -[4788.26 --> 4789.02] from what Asaph -[4789.02 --> 4789.82] spoke just a few -[4789.82 --> 4790.62] verses earlier -[4790.62 --> 4791.88] in 7 to 9 -[4791.88 --> 4793.46] right and this -[4793.46 --> 4794.24] is the second -[4794.24 --> 4794.96] picture -[4794.96 --> 4797.10] the second picture -[4797.10 --> 4797.82] is the one -[4797.82 --> 4798.74] that we need -[4798.74 --> 4799.54] to hold on to -[4799.54 --> 4801.30] right that God -[4801.30 --> 4802.04] is God -[4802.04 --> 4802.62] and that he -[4802.62 --> 4803.22] is holy -[4803.22 --> 4804.22] that somehow -[4804.22 --> 4805.66] in some way -[4805.66 --> 4807.30] all he does -[4807.30 --> 4808.44] is good -[4808.44 --> 4809.40] that there is -[4809.40 --> 4810.36] no one -[4810.36 --> 4811.22] being or -[4811.22 --> 4811.86] thing that -[4811.86 --> 4812.46] is God -[4812.46 --> 4813.06] like him -[4813.06 --> 4813.28] that he -[4813.28 --> 4814.68] is incomparable -[4814.68 --> 4816.74] that God -[4816.74 --> 4817.54] our God -[4817.54 --> 4818.46] has displayed -[4818.46 --> 4819.32] his mighty -[4819.32 --> 4820.46] acts of power -[4820.46 --> 4820.88] through the -[4820.88 --> 4821.42] miracle -[4821.42 --> 4822.52] of redemption -[4822.52 --> 4823.04] right -[4823.04 --> 4823.86] the gospel -[4823.86 --> 4824.44] truth -[4824.44 --> 4825.20] that all -[4825.20 --> 4825.86] who believe -[4825.86 --> 4826.48] by grace -[4826.48 --> 4827.04] through faith -[4827.04 --> 4827.76] are saved -[4827.76 --> 4828.28] from sin -[4828.28 --> 4829.10] and death -[4829.10 --> 4829.48] right -[4829.48 --> 4830.38] that sorrow -[4830.38 --> 4831.54] and hardship -[4831.54 --> 4832.68] and despair -[4832.68 --> 4833.48] or terror -[4833.48 --> 4834.32] of soul -[4834.32 --> 4835.26] will not -[4835.26 --> 4835.74] have the -[4835.74 --> 4836.36] last word -[4836.36 --> 4838.02] but that -[4838.02 --> 4838.80] the last word -[4838.80 --> 4839.68] belongs to -[4839.68 --> 4840.16] Jesus -[4840.16 --> 4841.12] who says -[4841.12 --> 4841.62] behold -[4841.62 --> 4843.44] I am -[4843.44 --> 4843.86] making -[4843.86 --> 4844.38] all -[4844.38 --> 4845.24] things -[4845.24 --> 4846.06] new -[4846.06 --> 4850.10] listen -[4850.10 --> 4852.86] and here's -[4852.86 --> 4854.12] the last word -[4854.12 --> 4854.44] for this -[4854.44 --> 4854.72] morning -[4854.72 --> 4857.84] in your -[4857.84 --> 4858.42] sorrow -[4858.42 --> 4860.02] in your -[4860.02 --> 4860.62] despair -[4860.62 --> 4863.04] I -[4863.04 --> 4863.64] will -[4863.64 --> 4864.14] disappoint -[4864.14 --> 4864.42] you -[4864.42 --> 4867.16] in your -[4867.16 --> 4867.62] sorrow -[4867.62 --> 4868.08] in your -[4868.08 --> 4868.60] despair -[4868.60 --> 4869.56] you will -[4869.56 --> 4869.94] disappoint -[4869.94 --> 4870.44] yourself -[4870.44 --> 4872.28] even your -[4872.28 --> 4873.16] best friends -[4873.16 --> 4873.90] will be a -[4873.90 --> 4874.38] disappointment -[4874.38 --> 4875.28] your parents -[4875.28 --> 4876.10] will be a -[4876.10 --> 4876.58] disappointment -[4876.58 --> 4877.88] the gods -[4877.88 --> 4878.98] we create -[4878.98 --> 4880.14] will always -[4880.14 --> 4881.16] disappoint us -[4881.16 --> 4881.86] in the end -[4881.86 --> 4883.50] the god -[4883.50 --> 4884.10] of the bible -[4884.10 --> 4885.42] the lord -[4885.42 --> 4886.40] jesus christ -[4886.40 --> 4887.56] he will -[4887.56 --> 4888.12] never -[4888.12 --> 4889.40] disappoint -[4889.40 --> 4891.18] let this -[4891.18 --> 4891.92] anthem -[4891.92 --> 4893.14] resound -[4893.14 --> 4893.66] in your -[4893.66 --> 4894.14] soul -[4894.14 --> 4894.78] as you go -[4894.78 --> 4895.26] this week -[4895.26 --> 4895.88] from isaiah -[4895.88 --> 4896.70] 49 -[4896.70 --> 4898.18] know that -[4898.18 --> 4898.94] i am -[4898.94 --> 4899.56] the lord -[4899.56 --> 4900.60] those who -[4900.60 --> 4901.26] hope in -[4901.26 --> 4901.70] me -[4901.70 --> 4903.10] will not -[4903.10 --> 4904.46] be -[4904.46 --> 4905.04] disappointed -[4905.04 --> 4906.52] amen -[4906.52 --> 4915.34] know that -[4915.34 --> 4915.92] i am -[4915.92 --> 4916.44] the lord -[4916.44 --> 4918.42] those who -[4918.42 --> 4919.04] hope in -[4919.04 --> 4919.50] me -[4919.50 --> 4920.78] will not -[4920.78 --> 4921.88] be -[4921.88 --> 4922.46] disappointed -[4922.46 --> 4924.36] amen -[4924.36 --> 4927.16] amen -[4927.16 --> 4927.80] let's pray -[4927.80 --> 4928.10] together -[4936.52 --> 4938.60] lord our -[4938.60 --> 4938.82] god -[4938.82 --> 4939.24] here -[4939.24 --> 4939.78] we -[4939.78 --> 4940.60] are -[4940.60 --> 4942.26] here -[4942.26 --> 4942.82] we -[4942.82 --> 4944.10] stand -[4944.10 --> 4946.58] help us -[4946.58 --> 4947.68] in life -[4947.68 --> 4949.00] and faith -[4949.00 --> 4949.54] to know -[4949.54 --> 4949.90] you -[4949.90 --> 4951.10] more -[4951.10 --> 4955.02] in the -[4955.02 --> 4955.46] cries -[4955.46 --> 4956.06] of our -[4956.06 --> 4956.58] soul -[4956.58 --> 4959.48] help us -[4959.48 --> 4960.08] both to -[4960.08 --> 4960.84] give voice -[4960.84 --> 4961.20] to the -[4961.20 --> 4961.66] truth -[4961.66 --> 4962.28] and the -[4962.28 --> 4962.78] authenticity -[4962.78 --> 4963.56] of what -[4963.56 --> 4963.96] we are -[4963.96 --> 4964.38] feeling -[4964.38 --> 4965.20] but help -[4965.20 --> 4965.86] us lord -[4965.86 --> 4966.18] god -[4966.18 --> 4966.94] to hold -[4966.94 --> 4967.64] at bay -[4967.64 --> 4968.48] apathy -[4968.48 --> 4969.54] and cynicism -[4969.54 --> 4972.70] help us -[4972.70 --> 4973.32] lord god -[4973.32 --> 4974.26] to see -[4974.26 --> 4975.14] the truth -[4975.14 --> 4975.86] of who -[4975.86 --> 4976.44] you are -[4976.44 --> 4977.14] the miracle -[4977.14 --> 4978.00] of your -[4978.00 --> 4978.38] redemption -[4978.38 --> 4979.02] help us -[4979.02 --> 4979.54] to see -[4979.54 --> 4980.08] jesus -[4980.08 --> 4980.66] christ -[4980.66 --> 4981.46] and then -[4981.46 --> 4981.90] lord -[4981.90 --> 4982.54] transform -[4982.54 --> 4983.20] us -[4983.20 --> 4983.82] with -[4983.82 --> 4984.12] ever -[4984.12 --> 4984.68] increasing -[4984.68 --> 4985.42] measure -[4985.42 --> 4986.06] into -[4986.06 --> 4986.82] his -[4986.82 --> 4987.78] image -[4987.78 --> 4990.62] you -[4990.62 --> 4991.70] are -[4991.70 --> 4991.90] the -[4991.90 --> 4992.22] lord -[4992.22 --> 4995.24] may we -[4995.24 --> 4995.70] who hope -[4995.70 --> 4996.20] and you -[4996.20 --> 4996.94] never -[4996.94 --> 4998.60] be disappointed -[4998.60 --> 4999.90] in jesus -[4999.90 --> 5000.40] we pray -[5000.40 --> 5001.78] amen -[5001.78 --> 5007.96] down here -[5007.96 --> 5010.00] we're gonna -[5010.00 --> 5011.44] take this -[5011.44 --> 5012.26] truth -[5012.26 --> 5013.56] of who -[5013.56 --> 5014.26] god is -[5014.26 --> 5015.36] and who -[5015.36 --> 5016.14] jesus -[5016.14 --> 5017.04] is revealed -[5017.04 --> 5017.76] to us -[5017.76 --> 5018.26] and we are -[5018.26 --> 5018.44] gonna -[5018.44 --> 5019.80] take that -[5019.80 --> 5020.34] deeper -[5020.34 --> 5021.44] and plant -[5021.44 --> 5022.00] it deeper -[5022.00 --> 5022.78] in us -[5022.78 --> 5023.34] as we -[5023.34 --> 5023.96] are -[5023.96 --> 5024.50] transformed -[5024.50 --> 5025.36] into the -[5025.36 --> 5025.70] image of -[5025.70 --> 5026.32] jesus christ -[5026.32 --> 5027.24] by coming -[5027.24 --> 5028.54] to the -[5028.54 --> 5028.88] table -[5028.88 --> 5030.42] and so -[5030.42 --> 5030.92] as we -[5030.92 --> 5031.50] come to -[5031.50 --> 5031.96] the table -[5031.96 --> 5032.46] there's -[5032.46 --> 5033.38] some liturgy -[5033.38 --> 5033.78] together -[5033.78 --> 5034.30] and then -[5034.30 --> 5035.22] we will -[5035.22 --> 5035.74] participate -[5035.74 --> 5036.68] around here -[5036.68 --> 5037.16] you will see -[5037.16 --> 5037.72] that on the -[5037.72 --> 5038.08] screen -[5038.08 --> 5038.82] i invite you -[5038.82 --> 5039.44] to speak -[5039.44 --> 5040.00] the words -[5040.00 --> 5040.90] that are -[5040.90 --> 5041.28] indicated -[5041.28 --> 5041.64] for you -[5041.64 --> 5042.10] to speak -[5042.10 --> 5044.18] lift up -[5044.18 --> 5044.80] your hearts -[5044.80 --> 5053.10] sounds to me -[5053.10 --> 5053.78] like last -[5053.78 --> 5054.54] month's -[5054.54 --> 5054.96] liturgy -[5054.96 --> 5055.70] not the -[5055.70 --> 5056.08] normal -[5056.08 --> 5056.68] liturgy -[5056.68 --> 5057.82] we lift -[5057.82 --> 5058.12] them up -[5058.12 --> 5058.40] to the -[5058.40 --> 5058.68] lord -[5058.68 --> 5061.08] hmm -[5061.08 --> 5062.58] all right -[5062.58 --> 5063.84] well y'all -[5063.84 --> 5064.10] are just -[5064.10 --> 5064.54] gonna follow -[5064.54 --> 5064.96] me -[5064.96 --> 5068.92] let us -[5068.92 --> 5069.38] give thanks -[5069.38 --> 5070.18] to the -[5070.18 --> 5070.70] lord our -[5070.70 --> 5071.12] god -[5071.12 --> 5071.68] for it -[5071.68 --> 5072.14] is right -[5072.14 --> 5072.96] for us -[5072.96 --> 5073.28] to give -[5073.28 --> 5073.64] thanks -[5073.64 --> 5074.60] let's pray -[5074.60 --> 5076.78] with joy -[5076.78 --> 5077.78] we praise -[5077.78 --> 5078.28] you -[5078.28 --> 5078.88] gracious -[5078.88 --> 5079.56] god -[5079.56 --> 5081.02] for you -[5081.02 --> 5081.76] have created -[5081.76 --> 5082.42] heaven and -[5082.42 --> 5082.70] earth -[5082.70 --> 5083.30] have made -[5083.30 --> 5083.98] us in -[5083.98 --> 5084.98] your image -[5084.98 --> 5085.52] and kept -[5085.52 --> 5085.98] covenant -[5085.98 --> 5086.62] with us -[5086.62 --> 5087.54] even when -[5087.54 --> 5088.22] we fell -[5088.22 --> 5089.36] into sin -[5089.36 --> 5091.18] we give -[5091.18 --> 5091.72] you thanks -[5091.72 --> 5092.22] for jesus -[5092.22 --> 5092.72] christ -[5092.72 --> 5093.78] who by -[5093.78 --> 5094.48] his life -[5094.48 --> 5094.88] death -[5094.88 --> 5095.58] and resurrection -[5095.58 --> 5096.48] open to -[5096.48 --> 5097.44] us the -[5097.44 --> 5098.10] way of -[5098.10 --> 5098.80] everlasting -[5098.80 --> 5099.94] life -[5099.94 --> 5101.42] amen -[5101.42 --> 5104.08] our lord -[5104.08 --> 5104.56] jesus -[5104.56 --> 5106.16] before he -[5106.16 --> 5106.98] suffered and -[5106.98 --> 5107.60] died gave -[5107.60 --> 5108.24] us this -[5108.24 --> 5109.14] memorial of -[5109.14 --> 5109.98] his sacrifice -[5109.98 --> 5111.32] until he -[5111.32 --> 5112.32] comes again -[5112.32 --> 5113.90] the lord -[5113.90 --> 5114.72] jesus on the -[5114.72 --> 5115.44] night that he -[5115.44 --> 5116.40] was betrayed -[5116.40 --> 5117.14] took bread -[5117.14 --> 5117.90] and when he -[5117.90 --> 5118.28] had given -[5118.28 --> 5118.84] thanks -[5118.84 --> 5119.98] he broke -[5119.98 --> 5120.52] it and -[5120.52 --> 5120.88] said -[5120.88 --> 5121.82] this is -[5121.82 --> 5122.56] my body -[5122.56 --> 5123.52] which is -[5123.52 --> 5124.08] for you -[5124.08 --> 5125.68] do this -[5125.68 --> 5126.90] in remembrance -[5126.90 --> 5128.36] of me -[5128.36 --> 5129.98] now in the -[5129.98 --> 5130.66] same way -[5130.66 --> 5132.08] after -[5132.08 --> 5133.18] supper -[5133.18 --> 5133.74] he took -[5133.74 --> 5134.32] the cup -[5134.32 --> 5134.94] and said -[5134.94 --> 5135.82] this cup -[5135.82 --> 5136.76] is the -[5136.76 --> 5137.44] new covenant -[5137.44 --> 5138.38] in my -[5138.38 --> 5138.78] blood -[5138.78 --> 5140.38] do this -[5140.38 --> 5141.56] in remembrance -[5141.56 --> 5142.86] of me -[5142.86 --> 5144.04] for whenever -[5144.04 --> 5144.58] you eat -[5144.58 --> 5145.28] this bread -[5145.28 --> 5146.10] and drink -[5146.10 --> 5147.02] this cup -[5147.02 --> 5147.78] you proclaim -[5147.78 --> 5148.60] the lord's -[5148.60 --> 5149.54] death and -[5149.54 --> 5150.04] resurrection -[5150.04 --> 5151.68] until he -[5151.68 --> 5152.92] comes again -[5152.92 --> 5155.56] this is the -[5155.56 --> 5157.14] mystery of -[5157.14 --> 5157.86] our faith -[5157.86 --> 5169.52] glory be to -[5169.52 --> 5170.72] you lord jesus -[5170.72 --> 5173.16] church family -[5173.16 --> 5174.60] the lord has -[5174.60 --> 5175.26] prepared his -[5175.26 --> 5175.82] table for -[5175.82 --> 5176.60] all who -[5176.60 --> 5177.84] believe and -[5177.84 --> 5178.68] love him -[5178.68 --> 5179.56] who trust in -[5179.56 --> 5180.52] him alone -[5180.52 --> 5181.26] for their -[5181.26 --> 5181.76] salvation -[5181.76 --> 5182.96] and so -[5182.96 --> 5183.74] come to -[5183.74 --> 5184.42] the table -[5184.42 --> 5185.18] you who -[5185.18 --> 5186.22] have much -[5186.22 --> 5187.12] faith and -[5187.12 --> 5187.60] you who -[5187.60 --> 5187.98] would like -[5187.98 --> 5188.28] to have -[5188.28 --> 5188.60] more -[5188.60 --> 5189.90] come to -[5189.90 --> 5190.38] the table -[5190.38 --> 5191.00] you who -[5191.00 --> 5191.44] have been -[5191.44 --> 5191.82] to this -[5191.82 --> 5192.24] sacrament -[5192.24 --> 5193.26] often and -[5193.26 --> 5193.70] you who -[5193.70 --> 5194.10] have not -[5194.10 --> 5194.56] been for -[5194.56 --> 5194.90] a long -[5194.90 --> 5195.26] time -[5195.26 --> 5196.72] come to -[5196.72 --> 5197.14] the table -[5197.14 --> 5197.68] you who -[5197.68 --> 5198.24] have tried -[5198.24 --> 5198.88] to follow -[5198.88 --> 5200.14] jesus and -[5200.14 --> 5200.64] you who -[5200.64 --> 5201.82] have failed -[5201.82 --> 5203.12] come to -[5203.12 --> 5204.40] this table -[5204.40 --> 5205.40] because jesus -[5205.40 --> 5206.90] christ is -[5206.90 --> 5207.72] raised -[5207.72 --> 5210.30] come if -[5210.30 --> 5211.00] you are here -[5211.00 --> 5212.40] or at home -[5212.40 --> 5214.66] it is christ -[5214.66 --> 5216.26] who invites you -[5216.26 --> 5217.12] and christ -[5217.12 --> 5218.40] who meets you -[5218.40 --> 5218.74] here -[5218.74 --> 5219.88] these are the -[5219.88 --> 5220.72] gifts of god -[5220.72 --> 5221.86] for the people -[5221.86 --> 5222.88] of god -[5222.88 --> 5224.68] as we come -[5224.68 --> 5225.26] to the table -[5225.26 --> 5225.78] we will do -[5225.78 --> 5226.66] that in -[5226.66 --> 5226.98] groups -[5226.98 --> 5227.64] coming to -[5227.64 --> 5228.10] the front -[5228.10 --> 5229.02] you will -[5229.02 --> 5229.46] be invited -[5229.46 --> 5230.50] to gather -[5230.50 --> 5231.26] in a circle -[5231.26 --> 5232.58] or an oval -[5232.58 --> 5233.34] around the -[5233.34 --> 5233.68] table -[5233.68 --> 5234.76] we will have -[5234.76 --> 5235.24] ushers -[5235.24 --> 5236.66] who will -[5236.66 --> 5237.40] tell the -[5237.40 --> 5238.56] next row -[5238.56 --> 5239.14] of chairs -[5239.14 --> 5239.60] when to -[5239.60 --> 5240.20] come forward -[5240.20 --> 5241.44] and then -[5241.44 --> 5243.02] as you -[5243.02 --> 5243.56] come and -[5243.56 --> 5244.06] we pass -[5244.06 --> 5244.72] the trays -[5244.72 --> 5245.50] around us -[5245.50 --> 5246.34] i invite you -[5246.34 --> 5246.80] to say -[5246.80 --> 5247.32] the body -[5247.32 --> 5247.92] of christ -[5247.92 --> 5248.46] given for -[5248.46 --> 5248.94] you when -[5248.94 --> 5249.26] you pass -[5249.26 --> 5249.70] the bread -[5249.70 --> 5250.40] and as you -[5250.40 --> 5250.84] pass the -[5250.84 --> 5251.40] juice to -[5251.40 --> 5251.76] say the -[5251.76 --> 5252.28] blood of -[5252.28 --> 5252.64] christ -[5252.64 --> 5253.56] shed for -[5253.56 --> 5253.78] you -[5253.78 --> 5254.94] on the -[5254.94 --> 5255.28] tray of -[5255.28 --> 5255.54] bread -[5255.54 --> 5256.26] in the -[5256.26 --> 5256.46] middle -[5256.46 --> 5256.88] there is -[5256.88 --> 5257.10] a little -[5257.10 --> 5257.40] cup -[5257.40 --> 5257.72] that has -[5257.72 --> 5258.34] gluten-free -[5258.34 --> 5258.72] bread -[5258.72 --> 5259.46] if that's -[5259.46 --> 5259.74] something -[5259.74 --> 5260.78] you need -[5260.78 --> 5261.96] we're going -[5261.96 --> 5262.40] to invite -[5262.40 --> 5263.34] the elders -[5263.34 --> 5263.72] and the -[5263.72 --> 5264.26] worship team -[5264.26 --> 5264.68] to come -[5264.68 --> 5265.72] forward first -[5265.72 --> 5266.38] so that -[5266.38 --> 5267.24] we can serve -[5267.24 --> 5267.78] them and -[5267.78 --> 5268.08] then they -[5268.08 --> 5268.54] will play -[5268.54 --> 5269.48] some music -[5269.48 --> 5270.24] for us -[5270.24 --> 5270.58] to sing -[5270.58 --> 5271.14] along with -[5271.14 --> 5271.80] as we -[5271.80 --> 5272.04] go -[5272.04 --> 5273.24] worship team -[5273.24 --> 5273.68] elders -[5273.68 --> 5274.66] and those -[5274.66 --> 5274.88] who would -[5274.88 --> 5275.34] join them -[5275.34 --> 5276.50] please come -[5276.50 --> 5276.74] to the -[5276.74 --> 5276.94] front -[5276.94 --> 5296.88] body of -[5296.88 --> 5297.12] christ -[5297.12 --> 5297.52] given for -[5297.52 --> 5297.76] you -[5297.76 --> 5299.96] body of -[5299.96 --> 5300.22] christ -[5300.22 --> 5300.62] given for -[5300.62 --> 5300.76] you -[5300.76 --> 5307.76] body of -[5307.76 --> 5307.98] christ -[5307.98 --> 5308.38] given for -[5308.38 --> 5308.60] you -[5308.60 --> 5310.22] body of -[5310.22 --> 5310.46] christ -[5310.46 --> 5310.88] given for -[5310.88 --> 5311.10] you -[5311.10 --> 5319.76] you -[5319.76 --> 5321.76] you -[5321.76 --> 5323.76] you -[5323.76 --> 5325.76] you -[5325.76 --> 5327.76] you -[5327.76 --> 5329.76] you -[5329.76 --> 5330.74] you -[5330.74 --> 5335.08] eat -[5335.08 --> 5335.70] and -[5335.70 --> 5336.20] remember -[5336.20 --> 5337.74] you -[5337.74 --> 5350.52] you -[5350.52 --> 5351.64] you -[5351.64 --> 5355.36] blood of -[5355.36 --> 5355.66] christ -[5355.66 --> 5356.16] shed for -[5356.16 --> 5356.32] you -[5356.32 --> 5360.00] blood of -[5360.00 --> 5360.24] christ -[5360.24 --> 5360.76] shed for you. -[5370.04 --> 5371.46] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[5372.60 --> 5374.00] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[5390.24 --> 5420.22] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[5420.24 --> 5450.22] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[5450.24 --> 5457.24] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[5457.24 --> 5462.24] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[5462.24 --> 5469.24] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[5469.24 --> 5476.24] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[5476.24 --> 5506.24] -[5506.24 --> 5513.24] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[5513.24 --> 5515.24] Blood of good many are hungry. -[5515.24 --> 5520.24] Longing for water many still thirst. -[5520.24 --> 5525.24] Make us your bread broken for others. -[5525.24 --> 5531.40] others shared until all are fed -[5531.40 --> 5541.80] christ be our light shine in our hearts shine through the darkness -[5541.80 --> 5553.80] christ be our light shine in your church gathered today -[5553.80 --> 5565.80] many the gifts many the people many the hearts that yearn to belong -[5565.80 --> 5576.76] let us be servants to one another making your kingdom come -[5576.76 --> 5588.76] christ be our light shine in our hearts shine through the darkness -[5588.76 --> 5594.76] be our light shine in your church -[5594.76 --> 5600.76] today -[5600.76 --> 5602.76] oh -[5602.76 --> 5604.76] oh -[5604.76 --> 5606.76] oh -[5606.76 --> 5608.76] oh -[5608.76 --> 5618.76] oh -[5618.76 --> 5620.76] oh -[5620.76 --> 5622.76] oh -[5622.76 --> 5624.76] oh -[5624.76 --> 5626.76] oh -[5626.76 --> 5628.76] oh -[5628.76 --> 5630.76] oh -[5630.76 --> 5632.76] oh -[5632.76 --> 5636.76] oh -[5636.76 --> 5638.76] oh -[5638.76 --> 5640.76] oh -[5640.76 --> 5642.76] oh -[5642.76 --> 5644.76] oh -[5644.76 --> 5646.76] oh -[5646.76 --> 5648.76] oh -[5648.76 --> 5650.76] oh -[5650.76 --> 5652.76] oh -[5652.76 --> 5664.76] oh -[5664.76 --> 5666.76] oh -[5666.76 --> 5668.76] oh -[5668.76 --> 5670.76] oh -[5670.76 --> 5672.76] oh -[5672.76 --> 5674.76] oh -[5674.76 --> 5675.76] oh -[5675.76 --> 5677.76] oh -[5677.76 --> 5682.66] that I give is my flesh -[5682.66 --> 5689.18] for the life of the world -[5689.18 --> 5695.82] and they who eat of this bread -[5695.82 --> 5701.78] they shall live forever -[5701.78 --> 5708.38] they shall live forever -[5708.38 --> 5715.98] and I will raise them up -[5715.98 --> 5722.80] and I will raise them up -[5722.80 --> 5729.30] and I will raise them up -[5729.30 --> 5737.04] on the last day -[5737.04 --> 5742.78] I am the resurrection -[5742.78 --> 5750.32] I am the life -[5750.32 --> 5757.30] they who believe in me -[5757.30 --> 5765.04] even if they die -[5765.04 --> 5769.78] they shall live forever -[5769.78 --> 5777.26] and I will raise them up -[5777.26 --> 5783.00] and I will raise them up -[5783.00 --> 5790.14] and I will raise them up -[5790.14 --> 5797.14] on the last day -[5797.14 --> 5802.88] and I will raise them up -[5802.88 --> 5809.88] and I will raise them up -[5809.88 --> 5816.88] and I will raise them up -[5816.88 --> 5824.62] upon the last day -[5824.62 --> 5839.00] you unravel me -[5839.00 --> 5842.10] with a melody -[5842.10 --> 5845.36] you surround me -[5845.36 --> 5849.10] with a song -[5849.10 --> 5853.10] of deliverance -[5853.10 --> 5856.10] from my enemies -[5856.10 --> 5860.84] till all my fears -[5860.84 --> 5862.84] are gone -[5862.84 --> 5869.84] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[5869.84 --> 5877.58] I am a child of God -[5877.58 --> 5879.58] I am a child of God -[5879.58 --> 5882.58] I am a child of God -[5882.58 --> 5892.32] from my mother's womb -[5892.32 --> 5905.06] from my mother's womb -[5905.06 --> 5909.06] you have chosen me -[5909.06 --> 5915.80] love has called my name -[5915.80 --> 5919.80] I've been born again -[5919.80 --> 5921.54] into your family -[5921.54 --> 5922.54] into your family -[5922.54 --> 5927.54] your blood flows through my veins -[5927.54 --> 5931.28] I am a child of my veins -[5931.28 --> 5935.28] I am no longer a slave to fear -[5935.28 --> 5941.28] I am a child of God -[5941.28 --> 5947.28] I am no longer a slave to fear -[5947.28 --> 5956.02] I am a child of God -[5956.02 --> 5957.02] I am a child of God -[5957.02 --> 5963.02] I am no longer a slave to fear -[5963.02 --> 5969.02] I am a child of God -[5969.02 --> 5971.02] I am a child of God -[5971.02 --> 5976.02] I am no longer a slave to fear -[5976.02 --> 5983.02] I am a child of God -[5983.02 --> 5995.76] I am a child of God -[5995.76 --> 6002.12] to split the sea so I could walk right through it -[6002.12 --> 6003.12] my fears were drowned in perfect love -[6003.12 --> 6009.12] my fears were drowned in perfect love -[6009.12 --> 6014.12] you rescued me so I could stand and sing -[6014.12 --> 6017.12] I am a child of God -[6017.12 --> 6022.12] I am a child of God -[6022.12 --> 6029.12] you split the sea so I could walk right through it -[6029.12 --> 6036.12] my fears were drowned in perfect love -[6036.12 --> 6038.12] my fears were drowned in perfect love -[6038.12 --> 6040.12] my fears were drowned in perfect love -[6040.12 --> 6042.12] you rescued me so I could stand and sing -[6042.12 --> 6044.12] I am a child of God -[6044.12 --> 6051.12] I am a child of God -[6051.12 --> 6055.12] you rescued me so I could stand and sing -[6055.12 --> 6059.12] I am a child of God -[6059.12 --> 6061.12] you rescued me so I could stand and sing -[6061.12 --> 6068.12] you rescued me so I could stand and sing -[6068.12 --> 6072.12] I am a child of God -[6072.12 --> 6076.12] I am a child of God -[6076.12 --> 6089.12] I am a child of God -[6089.12 --> 6095.62] I'm no longer a slave to fear. -[6097.18 --> 6103.00] I am a child of God. -[6103.00 --> 6109.22] I'm no longer a slave to fear. -[6110.96 --> 6115.96] I am a child of God. -[6119.12 --> 6149.10] I am a child of God. -[6149.10 --> 6154.10] How beautiful. -[6155.48 --> 6158.94] The feet that walked. -[6159.32 --> 6162.34] The long dusty roads. -[6162.70 --> 6165.92] And the hill to the cross. -[6166.26 --> 6168.66] How beautiful. -[6168.66 --> 6170.76] How beautiful. -[6170.76 --> 6174.76] How beautiful. -[6174.76 --> 6175.50] How beautiful. -[6175.50 --> 6175.76] How beautiful. -[6175.76 --> 6177.76] How beautiful. -[6177.76 --> 6181.76] How beautiful. -[6181.76 --> 6182.76] How beautiful. -[6182.76 --> 6184.76] How beautiful. -[6184.76 --> 6189.76] Is the body of Christ. -[6189.76 --> 6191.76] How beautiful. -[6191.76 --> 6194.76] How beautiful. -[6194.76 --> 6196.76] How beautiful. -[6196.76 --> 6197.76] How beautiful. -[6197.76 --> 6198.76] How beautiful. -[6198.76 --> 6199.76] How beautiful. -[6199.76 --> 6201.76] How beautiful. -[6201.76 --> 6202.76] How beautiful. -[6202.76 --> 6203.76] How beautiful. -[6203.76 --> 6204.76] How beautiful. -[6204.76 --> 6211.76] mitenставля00 -[6211.76 --> 6214.76] can rain out. -[6214.76 --> 6225.14] How beautiful. -[6225.14 --> 6242.28] How beautiful, how beautiful is the body of Christ. -[6242.28 --> 6255.08] And as He laid down His life, we offer this sacrifice. -[6255.64 --> 6261.28] That we will live just as He died. -[6261.28 --> 6274.02] Willing to pay the price, willing to pay the price. -[6276.04 --> 6289.26] How beautiful, the radiant bright, who waits for her groom at His light in her eyes. -[6289.26 --> 6302.40] How beautiful, when humble hearts give the fruit of pure light, so that others may live. -[6302.40 --> 6317.72] How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful. -[6319.26 --> 6324.26] Is the body of Christ. -[6327.26 --> 6334.12] How beautiful, the feet that bring. -[6334.50 --> 6340.20] The sound of good news, and the love of the King. -[6340.20 --> 6346.20] How beautiful, the hands that serve. -[6346.20 --> 6352.20] The white and the bread, and the sons of the earth. -[6352.20 --> 6359.20] How beautiful, how beautiful. -[6359.20 --> 6366.20] How beautiful, how beautiful. -[6366.20 --> 6374.20] How beautiful is the body of Christ. -[6374.20 --> 6376.20] How beautiful, how beautiful. -[6376.20 --> 6380.20] Yes, the light grills. -[6380.20 --> 6381.20] How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful. -[6381.20 --> 6382.20] How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful. -[6382.20 --> 6384.20] How beautiful, how beautiful. -[6384.20 --> 6385.44] How beautiful. -[6385.44 --> 6386.20] How beautiful, how beautiful. -[6386.20 --> 6387.50] How beautiful. -[6387.50 --> 6388.20] How beautiful. -[6388.20 --> 6388.30] How beautiful. -[6388.30 --> 6389.20] How beautiful. -[6389.20 --> 6391.20] How beautiful. -[6391.20 --> 6397.20] How beautiful how beautiful. -[6397.20 --> 6411.06] If you forsake me, what can I say? -[6411.06 --> 6421.14] You are my everything, I will sing your praise -[6421.14 --> 6430.26] You shed your blood for me, what can I say? -[6430.26 --> 6439.78] You took my sin and shamed, a sinner called by name -[6439.78 --> 6447.74] Great is the Lord -[6447.74 --> 6458.46] Great is the Lord -[6458.46 --> 6465.70] For we know your truth has set us free -[6465.70 --> 6474.70] You set your hope in me -[6474.70 --> 6485.42] Mercy and grace are mine, forgiven is my sin -[6485.42 --> 6496.14] Jesus, my only hope, the Savior of the world -[6496.14 --> 6504.14] Great is the Lord we cry, I let your kingdom come -[6504.14 --> 6514.86] Your word has set me free, thank you for saving me -[6514.86 --> 6525.58] Great is the Lord -[6525.58 --> 6531.58] Great is the Lord -[6531.58 --> 6542.30] For we know your truth has set us free -[6542.30 --> 6559.02] Thank you for saving me, what can I say? -[6559.02 --> 6561.02] Thank you for saving me, what can I say? -[6561.02 --> 6577.74] Thank you for saving me, what can I say? -[6577.74 --> 6583.74] Thank you for saving me, what can I say? -[6583.74 --> 6594.46] Having now come to this table, we leave nourished -[6594.46 --> 6605.18] Nourished in the word, nourished in sacrament, we leave transformed into the image of Jesus that we might be used of God to transform the world -[6605.18 --> 6610.86] To reveal his kingdom come and his kingdom coming in our hearts and beyond -[6610.86 --> 6613.90] I'm going to invite you as you're able now to stand -[6613.90 --> 6615.90] We're going to conclude this table in prayer -[6615.90 --> 6621.90] I will end the prayer with our parting blessing and we will be led in one more song -[6621.90 --> 6624.86] Let's pray -[6624.86 --> 6628.54] Amazing God -[6628.54 --> 6634.86] You come into our ordinary lives and set a holy table among us -[6634.86 --> 6639.42] Filling our plates with the bread of life and our cups with salvation -[6639.42 --> 6642.14] Send us out, O God -[6642.14 --> 6652.14] With tender heartedness to touch an ordinary everyday world with the extraordinary promise of your redemption -[6652.14 --> 6654.70] In Jesus name we pray -[6654.70 --> 6656.14] Amen -[6656.14 --> 6661.90] Go with the blessing of our God -[6661.90 --> 6665.58] May God go before you to lead you -[6665.58 --> 6668.86] May God go behind you to guard you -[6668.86 --> 6672.22] May God go beneath you to support you -[6672.22 --> 6675.50] May God go beside you to befriend you -[6675.50 --> 6679.74] Do not be afraid, but let the blessing of God come upon you today -[6679.74 --> 6681.88] Do not be afraid -[6681.88 --> 6683.24] But go -[6683.24 --> 6684.84] In peace -[6684.84 --> 6687.66] To love and serve the Lord -[6687.66 --> 6689.40] Amen -[6689.40 --> 6695.18] Jesus, hope of the nations -[6695.18 --> 6704.04] Jesus, comfort for all who are born -[6704.04 --> 6709.82] You are the source of man and hope on earth -[6709.82 --> 6713.82] Jesus, light in the darkness -[6713.82 --> 6715.32] Jesus, strength in circumcised hand -[6715.32 --> 6719.32] Jesus, strength in circumcised hand -[6719.32 --> 6725.10] You are the source of heaven's light on earth -[6725.10 --> 6730.60] Jesus, strength in circumcised hand -[6730.60 --> 6736.10] You are the source of heaven's light on earth -[6736.10 --> 6738.10] In victory you live and die -[6738.10 --> 6741.88] In victory you live and die -[6741.88 --> 6743.88] You broke the chains, you broke the lies -[6743.88 --> 6745.88] You broke the lies -[6745.88 --> 6747.38] You are the hope, living in heart -[6747.38 --> 6749.88] You are the rock, into the trust -[6749.88 --> 6762.66] You are the light, shining for all the world we see -[6762.66 --> 6764.30] Jesus, hope of the nations -[6764.30 --> 6764.54] You rose from the dead -[6764.54 --> 6766.76] You are the king, the durng of grief -[6766.76 --> 6767.44] Emotion in faith -[6767.44 --> 6768.34] Jesus, mourning for you -[6768.34 --> 6770.04] Jesus, our God, into the world we see -[6770.04 --> 6771.44] Jesus, life in heaven's light and we see -[6771.44 --> 6774.64] Jesus our hope, living for all who will receive -[6774.64 --> 6784.04] Hormよし Patch in through the air -[6784.04 --> 6791.90] Jesus, hope of the nations -[6791.90 --> 6796.84] Jesus, comfort for all who mourn -[6796.84 --> 6803.06] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth -[6803.06 --> 6806.84] Jesus, light in the darkness -[6806.84 --> 6811.10] Jesus, truth in each circumstance -[6811.10 --> 6818.28] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth -[6818.28 --> 6822.22] In history you live and die -[6822.22 --> 6827.46] You rose the chains you rose to life -[6827.46 --> 6831.12] You are the hope living in us -[6831.12 --> 6834.98] You are the rock in whom we trust -[6834.98 --> 6840.78] You are the light shining for all the world to see -[6840.78 --> 6844.72] You rose from the dead -[6844.72 --> 6846.58] Conquering fear -[6846.58 --> 6848.52] Our friends have seized -[6848.52 --> 6850.40] Drawing us in -[6850.40 --> 6852.36] Jesus, our hope -[6852.36 --> 6856.78] Living for all who will receive -[6856.78 --> 6859.96] Lord, we believe -[6859.96 --> 6863.76] Lord, we believe -[6863.76 --> 6867.70] Lord, we believe -[6867.70 --> 6897.68] Lord, we believe -[6897.68 --> 6917.68] MERCH корюч From GSMOk -[6919.68 --> 6924.68] very comfortable and lots of Gustafs -[6924.68 --> 6954.66] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 10, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 10, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a3a0595d791d94e9eaa90eaf3d011fb1f0898dcc..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 10, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,202 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction of Calvin University as a sponsor at the event -• Overview of Calvin's mission to teach students to think deeply, act justly, and live wholeheartedly -• Discussion on how students can bring God's justice and kingdom into their passions and careers -• Emphasis on living wholeheartedly by bringing people together and fostering community -• Call to action for students to become agents of renewal in Christ -• Introduction of a video showcasing Calvin University and its mission -• Opening prayer and worship -• Welcome to Emanuel CRC and Reactivate Youth leaders -• Church announcements (fellowship time, council meeting) -• Invitation to receive God's greeting in worship -• Practice of welcoming others into worship with a holy kiss or other gesture -• Brief interlude with audio issues -• Return to worship -• Call to worship and praise -• Salvation and God's love -• Invitation to come to God for mercy and satisfaction -• Assurance of God's presence and peace in times of trouble -• Personal testimony and trust in God's promises -• Praise and worship through music and lyrics -• Praise and worship -• Light and darkness contrasted (God is light, there is no darkness in him) -• Fellowship with God requires walking in the light -• The blood of Jesus purifies us from sin -• God gives life, hope, and restoration to broken hearts -• God's breath in our lungs is why we praise Him -• Earth and all creation will shout God's praise -• Loving kindness and the sacrifice of Jesus -• The Johnsons' work with North America Indigenous Ministries serving First Nations people -• Community response to recent wildfires in the area, including property loss and displacement -• Support efforts for affected individuals and communities -• Emphasis on bringing hope and loving people through prayer and presence -• Collaboration with community members -• Working alongside various professionals (e.g. counselors, addiction workers) -• Supporting and empowering youth in the community -• Sharing experiences and learning from others -• Leadership development and opportunities -• Gratitude for support, love, and prayers from others -• Importance of prayer and God's guidance -• Proclaiming salvation and spreading the message -• Worship song about Jesus and his power to free people from sin -• Invitation for children from Emanuel Church to come up front -• Discussion of the Children's Blessing ritual in church -• Explanation of how to participate in the Children's Blessing -• Introduction of Reactivate, a church-wide activity -• Transition to Children's worship time -• The church is a family united by the blood of Christ -• Prayer and worship in the presence of God -• Specific prayers for needs from the church family and others -• Updates on Ellen White's health -• Leadership training event for Christian Reformed churches -• Acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and providence -• Prayers for Reactivate and youth leaders -• Prayer for those impacted by encountering God over the weekend -• Request to use them as "light a fire" and start a revival in their midst -• Prayers for healing, restoration, and celebration of God's goodness -• Remembering Wendy Badge, who lost her 55-year-old daughter, and praying for comfort and peace -• Praying for health concerns, including Rose Vita, asking for healing, peace, and comfort -• Prayer for Ellen's health and recovery -• Request for God's guidance and healing through medical professionals -• Prayer for Amanda's mom's health, comfort, and peace -• Support for Kloss as he navigates challenging times in his life and marriage -• Prayer for Amy's continued strength and healing during treatment -• Prayer for Anne's physical and emotional recovery from injury -• General prayer for those experiencing emotional or mental struggles and difficulties -• The group is praying for people who are overwhelmed by life and circumstance. -• They thank God for His presence and the volunteers who made an event possible. -• They praise God for faithful servants of the church who serve quietly behind the scenes. -• The group thanks God for various individuals who have served in different ways, such as carrying tables, cleaning bathrooms, and preparing food. -• An invitation is extended to Tim and Charity to come forward and introduce themselves as speakers for the weekend's theme, proclaiming God's salvation. -• Glorifying God through revelation -• Key verse for the weekend: 1 Chronicles 16:23-24 -• Importance of sharing testimony and stories -• Encouragement to share where they are in their spiritual journey -• Being missional wherever God has planted them -• Sharing the gospel with others -• Examples of how God uses people to share the gospel with others -• Peter preaches about Jesus being the Messiah and Lord -• He reminds the audience that they crucified Jesus, but God made Him both Lord and Messiah -• Peter tells them to repent of their sins, turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for forgiveness -• He promises that those who receive baptism will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit -• Peter continues preaching to a large crowd -• Thousands are baptized and join the Church that day -• Believers devote themselves to the Apostles' teaching, fellowship, sharing meals, and prayer -• The Apostles perform many miracles and signs -• Believers share their property and possessions with each other, worship together at the Temple, and have the Lord's Supper in their homes -• Statistics on Christianity in Canada and North America -• Percentage of people identifying as Christian (64%) -• Comparison with other religions, specifically Islam and "other" religions -• Growth rate of different religions in North America -• Information from Wikipedia about demographics and religion in the US -• Decline of Christianity in Canada between 1976 and 2022 -• Christian population dropped from 91% to 73.7% -• Less than a quarter of Canadians attend religious services regularly -• Shift towards accepting non-traditional gender identities -• Pedophilia -• Human trafficking -• Statistics on these issues being comparable to statistics on death and heartbreak -• Sin as the root cause of all problems -• Jesus as the answer to sin and the only one who can redeem us -• Attempting to tackle and fix racism, hatred, sickness, death, and other social ills -• Sorting out different issues -• The importance of hope and being prepared to give answers -• Encouraging people with hope, specifically the hope in Jesus -• Issues addressed in the Book of Acts -• Living in a time similar to the Roman era -• Description of a fire burning in the backyard -• Fire jumping over the highway -• Discussion of fires in the area and homes being built into trees -• Reference to Jack Pine, Lodgepole Pine, and serotonous cones -• Fire is necessary for the germination of some plant species -• Pines depend on fire to regenerate and produce seeds -• Fire creates favorable conditions for seed germination by releasing nutrients into the soil -• The forest floor becomes exposed after a big fire, eliminating competing species and increasing sunlight -• Some plants require harsh conditions to make things happen and force them into a production stage -• Discussion of a daunting and depressing situation -• Complaining about everything -• Fear and anxiety -• Addiction to the internet -• Wasting time on useless things -• Importance of spending time in God's word for hope and guidance -• The Holy Spirit is mentioned as the source of empowerment for the church -• Acts 1:8 and Pentecost are referenced as key events in the early Christian church's history -• Devotion to being filled with the Holy Spirit, following the apostles' teaching, scriptures, and prayer are highlighted as important aspects of Christian living -• The Holy Spirit -• Devotion to the Bible and prayer -• Proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ -• A sudden realization that people need something or someone specific -• Hindrances in ministry -• Not being effective in one's work -• Being hindered by not moving forward or doing enough -• Leaning on one's strength to push forward -• Convinced people don't need God to work on their heart -• Strengthening and molding people in a certain way -• Need for devotion to prayer and proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ -• Reference to Acts 1:8 and receiving power from the Holy Spirit -• Ministry and serving others -• Good friends and relationships, including Peter and Elaine Yoon's work in Indonesia -• Encouragement to be involved with others and the impact of their service -• Desire for others to stay and contribute in a particular place -• Overjoyed about friends going overseas to share the gospel -• Seeing God's movement and action in one's life -• Reaching a large number of people, potentially thousands -• The importance of sharing the gospel with others -• Encouragement to share the gospel even if all answers aren't known -• Ministry involvement and separation -• Personal struggles with obedience and faith -• God's expectations for obedience and action -• Sharing the Gospel and its importance -• Encouragement to take action and follow God's will -• Discussion of the answer to a question that wasn't asked -• Reference to opening the Bible to find an answer -• Story about Peter being able to walk into a room and have a deep theological conversation with a stranger -• Comparison of this experience to dropping someone off and returning in five minutes -• The importance of being obedient to God's calling -• Understanding that following God's path may be uncomfortable at times -• Gaining spiritual strength and growth through sharing the Gospel and studying scripture -• Penn Jillette from the magic duo Penn and Teller -• Discussion of his self-proclaimed atheism -• Experience at a fan table where he was approached by a person who knew about his atheism -• The individual handed him a Bible with something written in it -• Salvation and the concept of heaven and hell -• Reaction to proselytizing and conversion attempts -• Disrespect for people who don't convert or share their beliefs -• Discussion on eternal life and afterlife consequences -• Request to leave someone alone and keep one's religion private -• Question about how much hate is required not to proselytize -• Existence of everlasting life -• Importance of faith and belief in Jesus -• A lot of people are unaware or uninformed about Jesus -• Availability of free gift related to knowledge of Jesus in Mark 16:15-17 -• The speaker has a video to share about the gospel -• No one has ever shared the gospel with the listener before -• The speaker is unsure if they have an understanding of the gospel since they've never read or been introduced to it before -• The listener may have had friends who shared the gospel with them -• Invitation to share and give -• It's an option, invitation, and gift -• One of the best invitations and gifts ever received -• Sharing and giving continue -• Closing with a word of prayer -• Gratitude for the weekend, people involved, and volunteers -• Acknowledgement of hard work by planning committee -• Prayers for empowerment and ability to stick words into the lives of others -• Encouragement to share testimony and what has been done in their life -• Request to be constantly looking for guidance from God -• Sharing words and actions with others, past and present -• Plea to continue ministering to souls and spirits -• Opening the eyes of the heart to see God -• Desire to know and experience God's presence -• Worship through singing "Holy, Holy, Holy" -• Prayer for power and love from God -• Reading Romans 15:13 for a blessing -• Sharing joy, peace, and confident hope with others -• Appreciation for worshiping together -• Chaos over the past weekend at the church -• Collective singing of a song by the congregation -• Encouragement to bring blessings and songs from the heart -• Praise for the Lord as He is Lord -• Reference to Jesus' love remaining through sorrow and sadness -• Discussion of a false ending to a song and its impact on faith -• Repeated expression of "Oh" -• Invitation to take a seat and attend to some brief matters -• Reference to fellowship and the foyer \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 10, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 10, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 10ce3361d2c31c4566df7e5d75b453bc86787481..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 10, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,4661 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 10.44] As you guys have noticed, we had the college draws early with the college tables there. -[10.44 --> 15.12] Every year at reactivate we invite these colleges to come and sponsor our event to help us keep -[15.12 --> 19.48] costs down but also because we love them to interact with our students and to have them -[19.48 --> 24.12] talk with our students and hopefully our students will go to some Christian higher education. So if -[24.12 --> 27.78] you're a parent here today this morning you're welcome to talk to them and learn more about -[27.78 --> 32.70] those institutions as well. And this morning we have Calvin University. This is the first time Calvin -[32.70 --> 37.44] has sponsored and been here so we're happy to have Calvin. I'm gonna hand it off to Ryan to share about Calvin. -[37.44 --> 47.54] Thank you so much Curtis. So first off for any like members or people that come to like Langley, -[47.54 --> 54.96] Emanuel, CRC, I hope every Sunday starts like this. This is the coolest church like like moment I've -[54.96 --> 60.84] had. So super glad to be here from Calvin. Calvin is our CRC liberal arts university all the way in -[60.84 --> 66.18] Grand Rapids, Michigan. This is my first time to Vancouver. Really glad to be here. But I think a -[66.18 --> 72.30] really cool thing for Calvin is that our mission has stayed the same through about 150 years and -[72.30 --> 77.16] it's that we want to teach students to think deeply, act justly, live wholeheartedly as Christ's agents of -[77.16 --> 82.32] renewal. And it's not just something for students, this is something for all of communities, right? When I visit -[82.32 --> 87.66] schools or churches, especially CRC churches, this is the mission we hold to. How do we think deeply -[87.66 --> 93.42] about the world, right? How do we take the passions God has given us and see how we can like dive deeper -[93.42 --> 98.50] into those, dive deeper into scripture, dive deeper into the calling he has for us. Act justly. How do we -[98.50 --> 104.58] live that out? How do we as a church here in Vancouver or Grand Rapids or Texas, how do we act justly? -[104.64 --> 108.50] How do we bring to light those things that we're thinking about? So as students, like if you're thinking -[108.50 --> 112.02] about what are the passions I have, what are the things that I am thinking about that I might want -[112.02 --> 116.78] to study or what are the jobs I want to go into, you're going to be able to to bring God's justice -[116.78 --> 122.20] and kingdom into all of the different things no matter what your passion is, no matter if you go -[122.20 --> 126.92] to university or you choose trade school or you do none of those, right? Like we always have that call -[126.92 --> 132.08] to act justly. And then I think that brings us to living wholeheartedly. Like one of the cool things -[132.08 --> 136.04] in students, I hope you reflect on this moment the rest of your school year, is you think about, -[136.04 --> 140.96] man, this community you've made, right? Living wholeheartedly is bringing people together. -[141.18 --> 146.30] And that's such a heartbeat for Calvin. That's a heartbeat for the CRC is how can we as a community, -[146.76 --> 151.16] right, like live out the mission of Christ where we've been planted, right? You guys are all going -[151.16 --> 154.44] to go back to the churches you're from, the youth groups you're from, the schools you're from, -[154.44 --> 160.04] but you still have this community and this moment to live into. And that's such a desire for Calvin -[160.04 --> 165.62] to foster that. And it's all wrapped together as being an agent of renewal in Christ, right? Like that's -[165.62 --> 171.70] the movement that we have as Christians, is that we're bringing that love into the world. Tim, who -[171.70 --> 177.76] did an excellent job speaking this weekend and his wife Charity, they talked about like, are you going -[177.76 --> 184.12] to live differently? Are you going to proclaim the kingdom? Are you going to showcase Christ in your -[184.12 --> 188.50] life? And that's the challenge we have for you guys that are here for this conference, but that's the -[188.50 --> 193.22] challenge we ask of all of our students at Calvin is like, how are you going to live that out? How are you -[193.22 --> 197.70] going to proclaim that? How are you going to bring that to all the places that you're from? So that's -[197.70 --> 202.26] a big heartbeat for Calvin. We're really glad to be at any of the CRC churches. We're always glad when -[202.26 --> 206.98] we host them in Grand Rapids, but it's great to be able to be out and hanging out with you. So like -[206.98 --> 212.64] all the adults in the rooms, like so glad you guys are here to support the students. This has been an -[212.64 --> 217.64] amazing weekend. So your guys like hosting this is excellent. We've got one video that's about Calvin, -[217.72 --> 222.34] about going beyond. And then I think that's like going to slide us right into church service. So -[222.34 --> 226.52] thanks for having myself, Trinity and Redeemer here, as well as all of these excellent students. -[229.34 --> 237.30] Where will the next revolutionary idea come from? That next breakthrough in scientific research -[237.30 --> 248.76] or that next literary masterpiece? At Calvin University, you can dream bigger, think deeper, aim higher. -[252.34 --> 260.76] Our world-class faculty push students to keep asking hard questions and never settle for the status quo. -[261.34 --> 270.34] Become part of the solution to the world's big problems. Become part of a university that challenges students -[270.34 --> 279.34] to go beyond themselves as Christ's agents of renewal in the world. Calvin University, go beyond. -[279.34 --> 280.34] Be beyond. -[280.34 --> 281.34] Be beyond. -[281.34 --> 282.34] Be beyond. -[282.34 --> 286.34] Be beyond. -[286.34 --> 288.34] world-class faculty描яжיך -[288.34 --> 291.34] citizens -[291.34 --> 293.34] Governors -[293.34 --> 294.34] de odd -[294.34 --> 296.34] de -[296.34 --> 297.34] block -[297.34 --> 300.30] de -[300.34 --> 301.34] Benjamin -[301.34 --> 302.34] Kimberly -[302.34 --> 303.34] Robert -[303.34 --> 305.56] Sho -[305.56 --> 310.62] To the suffering and the lead. -[311.52 --> 316.84] To the ones the world has cast aside. -[316.84 --> 322.94] Where you want me, I will be. -[323.26 --> 327.94] I will go, I will go, I will go, Lord. -[328.20 --> 332.84] Send me to the world, to the lost, to the poor. -[332.84 --> 337.72] And cause we take everything I am. -[338.02 --> 341.02] I'm great within your hands. -[341.02 --> 344.38] I will go, I will go, send me. -[351.80 --> 357.22] Let me not be blind with privilege. -[357.22 --> 363.26] Give me eyes to see the pain. -[364.06 --> 369.50] Let the blessing you've poured out on me. -[369.74 --> 374.34] Not be spent on me in vain. -[375.44 --> 380.22] Let this life be used for change. -[380.22 --> 386.48] I will go, I will go, I will go, Lord. -[386.74 --> 391.94] Send me to the world, to the lost, to the poor. -[392.94 --> 396.24] Hungry, take everything I am. -[396.64 --> 399.06] I'm great within your hands. -[399.06 --> 401.58] I will go, I will go. -[405.52 --> 406.00] Good. -[406.12 --> 406.60] Wow. -[406.78 --> 407.44] There it is. -[407.56 --> 409.66] Good morning, everyone. -[409.82 --> 413.34] Good morning, Reactivate Youth leaders who are here this weekend. -[413.56 --> 415.80] And good morning, Emanuel CRC. -[416.18 --> 420.90] This is such a cool time, such a cool service that we have here. -[420.90 --> 422.78] Because I want to actually Reactivate Youth. -[422.78 --> 429.88] Look behind you and just see that we are joined now by members of not just Emanuel CIC, but members of other churches as well. -[430.32 --> 435.94] And it is so cool to be able to do this church service, not just as youth and leaders, but as the body of Christ. -[436.34 --> 441.82] And Emanuel, take a peek in front of you at the over 200 youth and leaders who have come. -[442.20 --> 444.38] And they are going to worship with us today. -[444.92 --> 448.10] And I just think this is a beautiful picture of the body of Christ. -[448.10 --> 453.84] And so it is so cool that we can gather together in this place and do this service in this way. -[454.24 --> 457.02] For those who, I mean, all of you I think know who I am. -[457.08 --> 457.66] I'm Kevin Loverd. -[457.68 --> 458.80] I'm the youth pastor here. -[458.92 --> 464.40] And I'm going to invite Pastor Chris, who is our lead pastor, to lead us in our opening welcome. -[465.72 --> 466.36] Good morning. -[467.74 --> 468.42] Let's try it again. -[468.46 --> 468.92] Good morning. -[470.02 --> 471.24] Hey, there we go. -[472.12 --> 474.54] Welcome to Emanuel yet again. -[474.54 --> 478.00] I had a chance to welcome you guys here on Friday night. -[478.50 --> 481.82] And to the Emanuel people, welcome to church. -[481.92 --> 483.00] This weekend has been awesome. -[483.20 --> 488.94] It's been really great to connect and to see, to be part of the Learn It's yesterday, and to hear some of your stories. -[489.42 --> 492.48] What a huge blessing for me and for our church community. -[493.02 --> 496.36] I hope and pray that it was a huge blessing for you. -[497.10 --> 500.44] If you're joining us online, things look a little bit differently in here. -[500.54 --> 503.22] And we're excited that you are here as well. -[503.22 --> 507.38] Before we begin, just a couple church announcements to make. -[508.34 --> 511.60] And so everyone is invited to stick around afterwards for fellowship. -[511.82 --> 512.38] There's coffee. -[512.86 --> 519.74] I believe there's a bunch of, like, fruit and other refreshments that are left over from the weekend that you guys are providing for us. -[519.76 --> 520.56] So thank you for that. -[521.02 --> 525.58] And so stick around in the fellowship hall or in the courtyard or outside and the like. -[525.78 --> 527.78] Please enjoy that time together. -[527.78 --> 537.24] As well, just a reminder that this coming Tuesday night, we have our first full council meeting of the ministry season. -[537.42 --> 540.94] And so full council members, you are on notice. -[541.08 --> 542.50] You've received an agenda for that. -[542.60 --> 545.02] That's happening Tuesday night at 730. -[545.02 --> 548.18] I think that's it for ordinary announcements. -[548.18 --> 551.32] And so what I would like to do now is invite you all to stand. -[551.92 --> 556.82] And we're going to be ushered into God's presence by receiving his greeting. -[557.58 --> 562.56] Now, as we receive God's greeting, I'm going to invite you to take a posture of receipt. -[562.56 --> 567.00] And so maybe that looks like hands out and open in front of you. -[567.12 --> 570.86] Maybe that looks like up to your chest or prayer with your eyes closed. -[571.14 --> 575.28] Whoever that looks, know that God meets us in this place. -[576.12 --> 580.46] And that in worship, he is especially present in his spirit. -[581.12 --> 583.12] And we are filled by him. -[583.78 --> 586.30] And so we receive his greeting. -[586.30 --> 595.48] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior. -[596.14 --> 599.04] Through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[599.44 --> 600.00] Everyone said? -[600.64 --> 601.04] Amen. -[602.02 --> 606.90] Now, we have a practice here where you turn and welcome other people into worship. -[607.14 --> 610.20] Now, there's an ancient historical way of doing that. -[610.70 --> 612.84] And that's greeting each other with a holy kiss. -[612.84 --> 618.08] We're not going to do that because we've already seen what happened with the breath contest. -[619.10 --> 621.66] But I'm going to invite you to turn to those around you. -[621.76 --> 625.60] Maybe shake their hand or give them a fist bump or just a nod of the head. -[625.78 --> 628.24] And say, the peace of Christ be with you. -[628.24 --> 629.24] Amen. -[642.84 --> 661.80] Thank you. -[661.98 --> 662.84] Hold on. -[662.88 --> 667.04] Thank you. -[667.04 --> 671.86] Thank you. -[671.86 --> 680.86] I can see the words. -[680.86 --> 685.86] Okay, so someone says, -[685.86 --> 688.86] I can understand that the cherry would be just this tall. -[688.86 --> 692.86] I can see the words. -[692.86 --> 698.86] Okay, so someone says, -[698.86 --> 708.86] I can see the words. -[708.86 --> 711.86] People of God, sing to the Lord all the earth. -[711.86 --> 715.86] Proclaim his salvation day after day. -[715.86 --> 718.86] Declare his glory among the nations -[718.86 --> 722.86] and his marvelous deeds among all peoples. -[722.86 --> 727.86] For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise. -[728.86 --> 733.86] nationale of thyne -[734.86 --> 739.86] hills -[739.86 --> 741.86] Ministry -[741.86 --> 743.86] 陈然 -[743.86 --> 745.24] What kind of ramen practice do we need? -[746.36 --> 760.48] We need some d jaki -[761.26 --> 766.54] I'll pick up a new-size weight -[767.28 --> 769.80] Very nice -[769.80 --> 792.60] Come all you weary, come all you thirsty -[792.60 --> 797.68] Come to the world that never runs dry -[797.68 --> 803.56] Drink all the water and thirst no more -[803.56 --> 812.36] Come all you sinners, come find His mercy -[812.36 --> 816.88] Come to the table, He will satisfy -[816.88 --> 823.18] Take down His goodness, find what you're looking for -[823.18 --> 832.22] For God so loved, the world that He gave us -[832.22 --> 837.06] His heart and hope, He's done to save us -[837.06 --> 842.80] Whoever believes in Him will live forever -[842.80 --> 858.84] Bring all your fears, bring your addictions -[858.84 --> 875.72] Come lay them down at the foot of the cross -[875.72 --> 881.60] Jesus is with, with Lord God -[881.60 --> 890.60] For God so loved, the world that He gave us -[890.60 --> 895.48] His wine and hope, Son to save us -[895.48 --> 904.52] And forever live, we'll live forever -[904.52 --> 909.96] So let the power of hell forever defeat it -[909.96 --> 914.80] Now it is well, I'm walking in freedom -[914.80 --> 923.84] For God so loved, the God so loved, the world that He gave us -[923.84 --> 929.72] Praise God, praise God -[929.72 --> 933.72] From whom our blessings flow -[933.72 --> 938.72] Praise Him, praise Him -[938.72 --> 943.72] For the wonders of His love -[943.72 --> 948.76] Praise God, praise God -[948.76 --> 960.98] And for the wonders of His love -[960.98 --> 961.80] For God so loved, the world that He gave us -[961.80 --> 965.92] For the wonders of His love -[965.92 --> 969.92] For God so loved, the world that He gave us -[969.92 --> 973.92] is -[999.92 --> 1004.40] Now it is where I'm walking free -[1004.40 --> 1010.48] I'm not so lost, I'm not so found alone -[1029.92 --> 1051.44] guitar solo -[1051.44 --> 1060.80] In my wrestling and in my doubts -[1060.80 --> 1065.30] In my failures we won't walk out -[1065.30 --> 1069.94] Your great love will lead me through -[1069.94 --> 1074.42] You are the peace in my troubled sea -[1074.42 --> 1079.44] You are the peace in my troubled sea -[1079.44 --> 1087.64] In the silence you won't let go -[1087.64 --> 1092.32] In the questions your truth will hold -[1092.32 --> 1096.92] Your great love will lead me through -[1096.92 --> 1101.50] You are the peace in my troubled sea -[1101.50 --> 1106.50] You are the peace in my troubled sea -[1106.50 --> 1114.70] My lighthouse, my lighthouse -[1114.70 --> 1117.00] Shining in the darkness -[1117.00 --> 1119.08] I will follow you -[1119.08 --> 1123.64] Oh, my lighthouse, my lighthouse -[1123.64 --> 1126.14] I will trust the promise -[1126.14 --> 1129.84] You make me stay too short -[1129.84 --> 1134.64] Stay too short -[1134.64 --> 1139.64] Stay too short -[1139.64 --> 1143.64] Stay too short -[1143.64 --> 1148.64] I will trust the promise of -[1148.64 --> 1150.64] I will trust the promise of -[1150.64 --> 1151.84] Your great love will lead me through -[1151.84 --> 1153.84] You are the peace in my troubled sea -[1153.84 --> 1156.84] This morning, your eyes and wings -[1156.84 --> 1162.04] My God's love will lead me through -[1162.04 --> 1166.04] You are the peace in my troubled sea -[1166.04 --> 1174.24] Oh, you are the peace in my troubled sea -[1174.24 --> 1176.24] My lighthouse, my lighthouse -[1176.24 --> 1179.24] My lighthouse, my lighthouse -[1179.24 --> 1181.44] Shining in the darkness -[1181.44 --> 1182.44] I will follow you -[1182.44 --> 1187.24] Oh, my lighthouse, my lighthouse -[1187.24 --> 1189.24] I will trust the promise of -[1189.24 --> 1190.24] I will trust the promise of -[1190.24 --> 1195.44] You will carry me stay too short -[1195.44 --> 1197.24] Stay too short -[1197.24 --> 1199.24] Stay too short -[1199.24 --> 1203.24] Stay too short -[1203.24 --> 1205.24] Stay too short -[1205.24 --> 1207.24] Stay too short -[1207.24 --> 1216.24] Stay too short -[1216.24 --> 1216.74] Fire before us -[1216.74 --> 1218.44] You are the brightest -[1218.44 --> 1220.24] You will lead us through the storm -[1220.24 --> 1221.24] Hey! -[1221.24 --> 1223.48] Fire before us -[1223.48 --> 1225.44] You are the brightest -[1225.44 --> 1227.24] You will lead us through the storm -[1227.24 --> 1228.22] Hey! -[1228.22 --> 1228.84] Fire before us -[1228.84 --> 1231.28] You are the brightest -[1231.28 --> 1233.94] You will lead us through the storm -[1233.94 --> 1234.94] Hey! -[1234.94 --> 1235.84] Fire before us -[1235.84 --> 1239.84] You will lead us through the storm. -[1239.84 --> 1249.84] Fire before us, you're the light as you will lead us through the storm. -[1251.84 --> 1260.84] My lighthouse, my lighthouse, shining in the darkness, I will follow you. -[1260.84 --> 1273.84] My lighthouse, my lighthouse, I will trust the promise you will carry me safe and strong. -[1273.84 --> 1278.84] Safe and strong. -[1278.84 --> 1282.84] Safe and strong. -[1282.84 --> 1287.84] Safe and strong. -[1290.84 --> 1297.84] Safe and strong. -[1297.84 --> 1300.84] Safe and strong. -[1300.84 --> 1306.84] This is the message we have heard and declare to you. -[1306.84 --> 1309.84] God is light. -[1309.84 --> 1311.84] In him there is no darkness at all. -[1311.84 --> 1318.84] And if we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. -[1318.84 --> 1325.84] But if we walk in the light as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another. -[1325.84 --> 1330.84] And the blood of Jesus, his son, purifies us from all our sin. -[1330.84 --> 1331.84] Amen. -[1331.84 --> 1332.84] Amen. -[1332.84 --> 1343.84] You give light, you are Lord. -[1343.84 --> 1348.84] You bring light to the darkness. -[1348.84 --> 1349.84] Park the darkness. -[1349.84 --> 1350.84] You give hope. -[1350.84 --> 1351.84] You restore. -[1351.84 --> 1353.84] You restore. -[1353.84 --> 1358.84] Every heart that is broken. -[1358.84 --> 1364.84] Great are you. -[1364.84 --> 1366.84] you are you -[1370.84 --> 1372.84] you give life -[1372.84 --> 1374.84] you are love -[1374.84 --> 1376.84] you bring life -[1376.84 --> 1380.84] to the darkness -[1380.84 --> 1382.84] you give hope -[1382.84 --> 1384.84] you restore -[1384.84 --> 1386.84] any heart -[1386.84 --> 1388.84] that is -[1388.84 --> 1390.84] for him -[1390.84 --> 1394.84] great -[1394.84 --> 1396.84] are you -[1396.84 --> 1398.84] Lord -[1398.84 --> 1402.84] it's your breath -[1402.84 --> 1404.84] in our lives -[1404.84 --> 1408.84] so we pour out our praise -[1408.84 --> 1410.84] we pour out our praise -[1410.84 --> 1412.84] it's your breath -[1412.84 --> 1414.84] in our lives -[1414.84 --> 1416.84] so we pour out our praise -[1416.84 --> 1418.84] it's your breath -[1418.84 --> 1422.84] so we pour out our praise -[1422.84 --> 1424.84] you hold me -[1424.84 --> 1428.84] may need -[1428.84 --> 1430.84] are you -[1430.84 --> 1432.84] Lord -[1432.84 --> 1436.84] you give life -[1436.84 --> 1438.84] you are love -[1438.84 --> 1440.84] you bring life -[1440.84 --> 1442.84] you bring life -[1442.84 --> 1444.84] to the darkness -[1444.84 --> 1446.84] the darkness -[1446.84 --> 1448.84] you give up -[1448.84 --> 1450.84] you restore -[1450.84 --> 1452.84] every heart -[1452.84 --> 1454.84] that is broken -[1454.84 --> 1456.84] that is broken -[1456.84 --> 1458.84] great -[1458.84 --> 1460.84] great -[1460.84 --> 1462.84] are you -[1462.84 --> 1464.84] Lord -[1464.84 --> 1466.84] it's your breath -[1466.84 --> 1468.84] in our lungs -[1468.84 --> 1470.84] so we pour out our praise -[1470.84 --> 1472.84] in our lungs -[1472.84 --> 1474.84] in our lungs -[1474.84 --> 1476.84] so we pour out our praise -[1476.84 --> 1478.84] we pour out our praise -[1478.84 --> 1480.84] it's your breath -[1480.84 --> 1482.84] in our lungs -[1482.84 --> 1484.84] so we pour out our praise -[1484.84 --> 1486.84] you hold me -[1486.84 --> 1488.84] so we pour out our praise -[1488.84 --> 1490.84] you hold me -[1490.84 --> 1492.84] it's your breath -[1492.84 --> 1494.84] in our lungs -[1494.84 --> 1496.84] so we pour out our praise -[1496.84 --> 1498.84] we pour out our praise -[1498.84 --> 1500.84] it's your breath -[1500.84 --> 1502.84] in our lungs -[1502.84 --> 1504.84] so we pour out our praise -[1504.84 --> 1506.84] you hold me -[1506.84 --> 1508.84] so we pour out our praise -[1508.84 --> 1510.84] you hold me -[1510.84 --> 1524.84] and all the earth -[1524.84 --> 1526.84] will shout your praise -[1526.84 --> 1528.84] our hearts will cry -[1528.84 --> 1530.84] our hearts will cry -[1530.84 --> 1532.84] these bones will sing -[1532.84 --> 1534.84] our hearts will cry -[1534.84 --> 1536.84] These bones will sing -[1536.84 --> 1542.84] rain are you Lord -[1542.84 --> 1544.84] and all the earth will shout your praise -[1544.84 --> 1546.84] our hearts will cry -[1546.84 --> 1547.84] these bones will sing -[1547.84 --> 1549.84] our hearts will cry -[1549.84 --> 1570.46] your praise. Our hearts will cry, these bones will sing. Great are you, Lord. Now the earth -[1570.46 --> 1586.78] will shout your praise. Our hearts will cry, these bones will sing. Great are you, Lord. -[1590.78 --> 1600.44] Only earth will shout your praise. Our hearts will cry, these bones will sing. -[1600.46 --> 1622.74] Great are you, Lord. It's your breath in our lungs, so we pour out our praise, we pour out our -[1622.74 --> 1638.58] praise. Your breath in our lungs, so we pour out our praise. You're always in our lungs, -[1638.58 --> 1654.40] so we pour out our praise. You're always in our lungs, so we pour out our praise to you, -[1654.40 --> 1664.18] We are you poor -[1664.18 --> 1675.46] We are you, Lord. -[1679.46 --> 1687.10] We are you, Lord. -[1687.10 --> 1701.94] We are you, Lord. -[1701.94 --> 1709.02] Here is love, fast as the ocean. -[1709.02 --> 1716.02] Loving kindness as a flood. -[1716.02 --> 1723.02] Where the Prince of life are in so. -[1723.02 --> 1729.02] Shed for us his precious blood. -[1729.02 --> 1735.02] Who his love will not remember. -[1735.02 --> 1741.02] Who can cease to sing his praise. -[1741.02 --> 1748.02] He can never be forgotten. -[1748.02 --> 1754.02] Throughout heaven's eternal days. -[1754.02 --> 1769.02] And on the mount of crucifixion. -[1769.02 --> 1799.02] -[1799.02 --> 1800.02] He is the world in love. -[1800.02 --> 1806.02] Heaven's peace and perfect justice. -[1806.02 --> 1813.02] He is the world in love. -[1813.02 --> 1818.02] Who his love will not remember. -[1818.02 --> 1825.02] Who can cease to sing his praise. -[1825.02 --> 1830.02] He can never be forgotten. -[1830.02 --> 1837.02] Who has eternal days. -[1837.02 --> 1838.02] To let me mad... -[1838.02 --> 1844.02] Who BTR next... -[1844.02 --> 1864.32] So let me on -[1864.32 --> 1868.38] Thy love is sent in -[1868.38 --> 1875.46] Love thee ever all my days -[1875.46 --> 1878.70] Let me see -[1878.70 --> 1881.70] Thy kingdom only -[1881.70 --> 1886.84] And my life eternal -[1886.84 --> 1894.36] Thou alone shall be my glory -[1894.36 --> 1900.34] Nothing in the world I see -[1900.34 --> 1906.64] Thou hast friends and sanctified me -[1906.64 --> 1912.68] Thou alone hast set me free -[1912.68 --> 1918.58] Thou alone shall be my glory -[1918.58 --> 1924.56] Nothing in this world I see -[1924.56 --> 1930.58] Thou hast friends and sanctified me -[1930.58 --> 1936.58] Thou alone shall set me free -[1936.58 --> 1942.56] Thou alone shall set me free -[1942.56 --> 1952.56] Thou alone shall set me free -[1952.56 --> 1966.56] Thou alone shall set me free -[1966.56 --> 1970.56] Thou alone shall set me free -[1970.56 --> 1974.56] Thou alone shall set me free -[1974.56 --> 2004.54] Thou alone shall set me free -[2004.54 --> 2007.54] My name is Brenda and I'm a deacon here at Emmanuel -[2007.54 --> 2010.52] It's good to see all of you here this morning -[2010.52 --> 2012.52] And I'm assuming you've had a good weekend -[2012.52 --> 2017.32] Our offering this morning is for our budget -[2017.32 --> 2020.48] For the church here for ministries and such -[2020.48 --> 2022.52] And we have a special offering as well -[2022.52 --> 2025.52] And this morning it is for name -[2025.52 --> 2032.52] And I am happy to welcome Tim and Charity Johnson -[2032.52 --> 2036.52] And they're going to tell us a bit about their work with name -[2036.52 --> 2038.52] You have your own, okay -[2038.52 --> 2040.52] Good morning -[2040.52 --> 2042.52] Good morning, good morning, Langley Emmanuel -[2042.52 --> 2044.52] Good morning, Reactivate -[2044.52 --> 2048.52] This will be a recap for all you Reactivate kids -[2048.52 --> 2050.52] Unless you were sleeping the first night -[2050.52 --> 2053.16] Then this will be brand new and fresh -[2053.16 --> 2056.64] Our names are Tim and Charity Johnson -[2056.64 --> 2060.52] We get to serve with North America Indigenous Ministries -[2060.52 --> 2063.60] We serve the Sequetmik people, the Shushwap people -[2063.60 --> 2067.40] First Nations people up in the Shushwap area -[2067.40 --> 2069.08] Up in Salmon Arm, Chase area -[2069.08 --> 2072.00] We have two of our kids with us today -[2072.00 --> 2075.14] And the other two are back at home -[2075.14 --> 2078.32] A lot of people have been asking about the fires -[2078.32 --> 2081.46] The fires have been raging through our area -[2081.46 --> 2082.64] As we were driving out -[2082.64 --> 2084.80] It was like five minutes down the road from our place -[2084.80 --> 2086.92] As we were coming out on Friday -[2086.92 --> 2089.98] They were still dumping water on the mountainsides -[2089.98 --> 2091.28] And still putting out fires -[2091.28 --> 2093.76] So keep that in your prayer -[2093.76 --> 2097.28] There's still a lot of people that are living in fear -[2097.28 --> 2101.86] And terrified because it has destroyed a lot of homes -[2101.86 --> 2103.40] And a lot of property -[2103.40 --> 2106.18] One of the neighboring communities -[2106.18 --> 2107.88] Little Shushwap Indian Bend -[2107.88 --> 2110.22] They lost like 80 houses -[2110.22 --> 2112.48] And a gas station -[2112.48 --> 2114.90] A bunch of other buildings as well -[2114.90 --> 2118.46] So it's neat to see how the communities -[2118.46 --> 2119.94] Are trying to rally around -[2119.94 --> 2122.62] And trying to support and help -[2122.62 --> 2124.24] And so we're right in there -[2124.24 --> 2126.92] And looking for ways to be able to help people -[2126.92 --> 2129.72] Support people as they journey through the process -[2129.72 --> 2131.88] Of going through insurance -[2131.88 --> 2135.30] Going through getting some of these different things covered -[2135.30 --> 2137.60] And then just covering people in prayer -[2137.60 --> 2142.34] There's a big need for hope right now -[2142.34 --> 2145.80] So that's the big message that we've been preaching -[2145.80 --> 2147.56] And we've been sharing with people -[2147.56 --> 2149.76] But mostly coming alongside people -[2150.28 --> 2151.62] Loving them where they're at -[2151.62 --> 2153.72] And just journeying through that with them -[2153.72 --> 2156.08] As well as trying to support the community -[2156.08 --> 2157.22] As best as possible -[2157.22 --> 2161.60] So my part a lot to do -[2161.60 --> 2162.98] Is with the girls group -[2162.98 --> 2163.94] On the reserve -[2163.94 --> 2166.92] But Tim and I work simultaneously together -[2166.92 --> 2167.96] And with our kids -[2167.96 --> 2169.48] And we -[2169.48 --> 2170.66] I guess -[2170.66 --> 2171.92] We just kind of -[2171.92 --> 2173.50] Give them a childhood -[2173.50 --> 2175.36] And we support the parents -[2175.36 --> 2176.80] In the best ways we can -[2176.80 --> 2179.20] And we just come alongside the community -[2179.20 --> 2180.74] However that might look -[2180.74 --> 2181.74] And if Chiefing Council -[2181.74 --> 2183.66] Or other -[2183.66 --> 2185.00] Like counselors -[2185.00 --> 2186.32] Or addictions workers -[2186.32 --> 2186.82] Or anyone -[2186.82 --> 2188.12] Needs us -[2188.12 --> 2189.40] Then we just plunk in -[2189.40 --> 2191.14] And help out however we can -[2191.14 --> 2193.50] I'm really excited to share with you -[2193.50 --> 2195.30] Actually some of the youth -[2195.30 --> 2197.08] That we've gotten together with -[2197.08 --> 2198.20] Since they were just little -[2198.20 --> 2199.18] Are now -[2199.18 --> 2201.64] All your guys' age -[2201.64 --> 2202.72] At Reactivate here -[2202.72 --> 2204.22] And one of the girls -[2204.22 --> 2206.24] Was invited to go to -[2206.24 --> 2207.40] Thompson Rivers University -[2207.40 --> 2209.14] To talk about truth and reconciliation -[2209.14 --> 2210.76] With other -[2210.76 --> 2213.34] Other -[2213.34 --> 2215.48] Bands -[2215.48 --> 2216.52] And communities -[2216.52 --> 2217.24] And -[2217.24 --> 2219.24] Other youth were invited -[2219.24 --> 2220.22] That were her age -[2220.22 --> 2221.76] And she came back -[2221.76 --> 2222.94] To girls group one night -[2222.94 --> 2224.00] And just shared with us -[2224.00 --> 2224.34] Like -[2224.34 --> 2225.28] You guys -[2225.28 --> 2226.74] They were really excited -[2226.74 --> 2227.50] To hear about -[2227.50 --> 2228.24] What we do -[2228.24 --> 2229.12] With our youth group -[2229.12 --> 2229.78] And what we do -[2229.78 --> 2230.60] In our community -[2230.60 --> 2231.42] And they're like -[2231.42 --> 2231.84] Whoa -[2231.84 --> 2233.54] We would love to do that -[2233.54 --> 2234.48] We wish we could -[2234.48 --> 2234.88] You know -[2234.88 --> 2235.60] Do those things -[2235.60 --> 2236.34] And she's like -[2236.34 --> 2236.62] You guys -[2236.62 --> 2237.76] We got it really good -[2237.76 --> 2239.44] And she was just like -[2239.44 --> 2240.08] An inspiration -[2240.08 --> 2241.02] For all the others -[2241.02 --> 2241.34] Like -[2241.34 --> 2242.02] Hey -[2242.02 --> 2243.22] We're doing good -[2243.22 --> 2244.26] And it was nice -[2244.26 --> 2245.74] For her to be able to -[2245.74 --> 2247.08] Be invited there -[2247.08 --> 2247.80] Go there -[2247.80 --> 2248.74] She's being put into -[2248.74 --> 2249.94] More leadership positions -[2249.94 --> 2251.18] And we just praise God -[2251.18 --> 2251.66] For her -[2251.66 --> 2252.12] So -[2252.12 --> 2254.36] We thank you guys -[2254.36 --> 2254.38] We thank you guys -[2254.38 --> 2255.48] So much for your support -[2255.48 --> 2256.54] And your love -[2256.54 --> 2257.14] And your prayers -[2257.14 --> 2258.80] Without your prayers -[2258.80 --> 2260.22] We'd be dead in the water -[2260.22 --> 2261.44] We need God -[2261.44 --> 2262.38] Backing us up -[2262.38 --> 2263.98] And we need to be working -[2263.98 --> 2265.34] Through his spirit -[2265.34 --> 2266.52] As well -[2266.52 --> 2266.82] So -[2266.82 --> 2268.52] It is amazing -[2268.52 --> 2269.88] To be able to do -[2269.88 --> 2270.60] What we do -[2270.60 --> 2271.06] And -[2271.06 --> 2271.84] And that's why -[2271.84 --> 2272.92] It just fits so good -[2272.92 --> 2273.64] Into the theme -[2273.64 --> 2275.00] For this year -[2275.00 --> 2276.14] We get to -[2276.14 --> 2277.30] We get to -[2277.30 --> 2277.86] Proclaim -[2277.86 --> 2278.76] His salvation -[2278.76 --> 2279.46] Day after day -[2279.46 --> 2281.34] And so -[2281.34 --> 2281.66] Yeah -[2281.66 --> 2283.04] Continue to pray for us -[2283.04 --> 2284.70] Continue to uplift us -[2284.70 --> 2286.42] And pray for the communities -[2286.42 --> 2287.30] That are being affected -[2287.30 --> 2287.78] Right now -[2287.78 --> 2289.70] And thank you guys so much -[2289.70 --> 2290.72] We really appreciate it -[2290.72 --> 2292.72] Applause -[2292.72 --> 2293.72] Applause -[2293.72 --> 2295.72] Applause -[2295.72 --> 2296.72] Applause -[2296.72 --> 2297.72] Applause -[2297.72 --> 2299.72] Applause -[2299.72 --> 2301.72] Applause -[2309.46 --> 2326.38] Music -[2327.94 --> 2332.14] No -[2332.14 --> 2332.66] li -[2332.66 --> 2332.78] links -[2332.78 --> 2337.30] flatter -[2337.30 --> 2348.80] For a thousand tongues to sing -[2348.80 --> 2351.82] My great Redeemer's praise -[2351.82 --> 2355.66] The glories of my God and King -[2355.66 --> 2358.88] The triumphs of His name -[2358.88 --> 2364.24] My gracious Master and my God -[2364.24 --> 2366.94] Assist me to proclaim -[2366.94 --> 2370.20] To spread through all the earth -[2370.20 --> 2374.48] The promise the honors of my name -[2374.48 --> 2382.80] So come on, sing out a letter -[2382.80 --> 2386.30] And the Lord will allow them -[2386.30 --> 2393.74] One way to love Jesus -[2393.74 --> 2409.00] Jesus, the name that chants our fears -[2409.00 --> 2412.66] That rids our sorrows cease -[2412.66 --> 2416.34] Tis music in the sinner's ears -[2416.34 --> 2419.12] Tis life and love can be -[2419.12 --> 2424.80] He breaks the power of canceled sin -[2424.80 --> 2427.66] He sets the prisoners free -[2427.66 --> 2431.08] His blood can make the powers -[2431.08 --> 2433.50] Leave him blood availed -[2433.50 --> 2440.50] So come on, sing out a letter -[2440.50 --> 2443.76] And the Lord will allow them -[2443.76 --> 2448.02] One great Lord -[2448.02 --> 2453.30] To hold the arms of my love -[2453.30 --> 2456.92] And the hope I will -[2456.92 --> 2461.02] One great Lord -[2461.02 --> 2463.02] Jesus -[2463.02 --> 2480.28] He speaks in listening to His voice -[2480.28 --> 2482.90] New like the dead receive -[2482.90 --> 2486.88] The morning call when hearts rejoice -[2486.88 --> 2490.14] The humble poor believe -[2490.14 --> 2495.42] Glory to God and praise and love -[2495.42 --> 2498.34] Be ever, ever again -[2498.34 --> 2502.14] By saints below and saints above -[2502.14 --> 2505.14] The church in earth and heaven -[2505.14 --> 2513.68] So come on, sing out a letter -[2513.68 --> 2517.10] And the Lord will allow them -[2517.10 --> 2521.68] One great Lord -[2521.68 --> 2527.68] So come on, sing out a letter -[2527.68 --> 2529.06] And the Lord -[2529.06 --> 2530.94] And the Lord will allow them -[2530.94 --> 2535.38] One great Lord -[2535.38 --> 2539.98] So come on, sing out a letter -[2539.98 --> 2541.94] And the Lord will allow them -[2541.94 --> 2543.94] And the Lord will allow them -[2543.94 --> 2549.06] One great Lord -[2549.06 --> 2553.52] So come on, sing out a letter -[2553.52 --> 2557.04] Let on and to roll out -[2557.04 --> 2562.86] There is one great love -[2562.86 --> 2564.88] Jesus -[2583.52 --> 2602.20] I would love to invite any kids from Emanuel -[2602.20 --> 2606.32] If you're three-ish years old or up to kindergarten-ish age -[2606.32 --> 2608.30] Why don't you come up all the way to the front -[2608.30 --> 2610.14] You can come sit up here with me -[2610.14 --> 2613.12] Come on forward, come on forward -[2613.12 --> 2614.06] Good job -[2614.06 --> 2616.80] There's some more coming from the side I see -[2616.80 --> 2618.72] That's good -[2618.72 --> 2625.36] What do you think of all of the lights here today? -[2626.22 --> 2626.98] Isn't it cool? -[2627.86 --> 2628.04] Yeah? -[2628.24 --> 2630.18] We have some teaching to do this morning -[2630.18 --> 2632.72] Can you help me teach everybody here what we do up here? -[2633.38 --> 2633.60] Yeah? -[2633.90 --> 2634.46] Can we do it? -[2634.88 --> 2638.20] So we're going to teach everybody how we do the children's blessing here today, okay? -[2638.84 --> 2639.08] Yeah? -[2639.24 --> 2639.78] Does that work? -[2640.42 --> 2642.26] So stand up with me -[2642.26 --> 2644.24] And we'll turn and we're going to teach them, okay? -[2644.24 --> 2645.30] We're going to show everyone first -[2645.30 --> 2646.26] And then we're going to ask them -[2646.26 --> 2647.10] After we show them -[2647.10 --> 2648.70] We're going to ask them to stand -[2648.70 --> 2650.30] And then they're going to do it with us, okay? -[2650.38 --> 2651.60] So what we do up here -[2651.60 --> 2652.18] What do we do up here? -[2652.20 --> 2653.04] Where do we put our hands? -[2653.54 --> 2654.64] We put them up like this, right? -[2655.28 --> 2656.30] And then we say -[2656.30 --> 2657.64] What do we say together? -[2657.70 --> 2658.08] Do you remember? -[2658.08 --> 2660.12] That's right, we say -[2660.12 --> 2660.40] We say -[2660.40 --> 2662.78] The Lord be with you, right? -[2663.30 --> 2663.58] And so -[2663.58 --> 2665.28] And then they will respond by saying -[2665.28 --> 2666.50] And also with you -[2666.50 --> 2667.32] All right? -[2667.36 --> 2668.20] So I'm going to invite -[2668.20 --> 2669.02] Reactivate -[2669.02 --> 2670.72] And the entire church is going to stand -[2670.72 --> 2673.16] And then we're going to say -[2673.16 --> 2676.34] In our loudest, loudest voices together -[2676.34 --> 2677.08] Are you ready, kids? -[2677.52 --> 2679.40] One, two, three -[2679.40 --> 2682.22] The Lord be with you -[2682.22 --> 2684.66] And also with you -[2684.66 --> 2685.94] All right, you guys can head to -[2685.94 --> 2686.90] Children's worship time -[2686.90 --> 2688.24] If you are a little older -[2688.24 --> 2689.22] Than kindergarten age -[2689.22 --> 2689.92] Everybody can have a seat -[2689.92 --> 2690.78] If you're a little older -[2690.78 --> 2691.66] Than kindergarten age -[2691.66 --> 2693.72] There's some clipboards in the back -[2693.72 --> 2695.12] At the booth there in the back -[2695.12 --> 2695.64] So if you want to do -[2695.64 --> 2696.32] A little bit of coloring -[2696.32 --> 2698.10] While we hear a message today -[2698.10 --> 2698.74] You can go do that -[2698.74 --> 2700.08] Just go grab those in the back -[2700.08 --> 2709.24] One of the things that I love -[2709.24 --> 2710.14] About the church -[2710.14 --> 2712.08] Is that no matter where you are from -[2712.08 --> 2713.38] No matter what age you are -[2713.38 --> 2716.78] We come together as one family of God -[2716.78 --> 2718.26] It's the blood of Christ -[2718.26 --> 2719.72] That binds us together -[2719.72 --> 2721.42] And so when we gather -[2721.42 --> 2722.46] Even in this way -[2722.46 --> 2724.44] With people from all different parts -[2724.44 --> 2725.54] Of our province -[2725.54 --> 2727.38] And people of all different ages -[2727.38 --> 2728.70] And backgrounds -[2728.70 --> 2731.30] We come together in the presence of God -[2731.30 --> 2732.90] And we praise His name -[2732.90 --> 2736.64] We come together also to pray to our God -[2736.64 --> 2738.54] And so we're going to spend a moment -[2738.54 --> 2739.54] In prayer together -[2739.54 --> 2741.08] We're going to lift up -[2741.08 --> 2742.74] A couple particular needs -[2742.74 --> 2744.86] From our church family here -[2744.86 --> 2745.98] And so I'm going to invite you -[2745.98 --> 2746.68] If you're visiting -[2746.68 --> 2748.30] Just to hold out your heart -[2748.30 --> 2748.78] In prayer -[2748.78 --> 2750.92] As we pray for those people -[2750.92 --> 2752.70] For the Emmanuel people -[2752.70 --> 2754.78] In addition to what you saw -[2754.78 --> 2757.48] In our e-bulletins that went out -[2757.48 --> 2759.02] Just wanted to note -[2759.02 --> 2760.32] We found out this morning -[2760.32 --> 2761.20] That Ellen White -[2761.20 --> 2762.76] Is back in the hospital -[2762.76 --> 2764.92] She didn't have a fall -[2764.92 --> 2767.20] But she was experiencing pain -[2767.20 --> 2768.58] And severe headaches -[2768.58 --> 2771.56] And was unsure as to the cause of that -[2771.56 --> 2772.94] So she's back in the hospital -[2772.94 --> 2774.78] We hope to find out more details -[2774.78 --> 2776.20] Later today as well -[2776.20 --> 2777.52] But we're going to mention her -[2777.52 --> 2778.94] In our prayers together -[2778.94 --> 2780.90] Also -[2780.90 --> 2783.30] Just a note -[2783.30 --> 2784.98] Next week Saturday -[2784.98 --> 2788.46] A bunch of council leaders -[2788.46 --> 2790.70] From different Christian Reformed churches -[2790.70 --> 2791.88] Are getting together -[2791.88 --> 2793.64] For a leadership training event -[2793.64 --> 2796.54] So there's over 140 different leaders -[2796.54 --> 2797.98] From different CRC churches -[2797.98 --> 2799.88] In the lower mainland here -[2799.88 --> 2801.70] Who are coming together -[2801.70 --> 2802.70] For leadership training -[2802.70 --> 2804.06] And that's going to happen on Saturday -[2804.06 --> 2805.70] And so we cover your prayers -[2805.70 --> 2806.42] For that day -[2806.42 --> 2807.90] As those leaders come together -[2807.90 --> 2809.40] And are equipped -[2809.40 --> 2811.28] For their service among us -[2811.28 --> 2813.10] Would you join your heart with mine -[2813.10 --> 2813.84] In prayer -[2813.84 --> 2820.28] Holy God -[2820.28 --> 2821.94] We gather here -[2821.94 --> 2824.16] Because you have not only -[2824.16 --> 2825.66] Called us to this place -[2825.66 --> 2827.34] But by the power of your spirit -[2827.34 --> 2829.32] You have carried us here -[2829.32 --> 2833.14] You have ordained this moment -[2833.14 --> 2835.60] That we might be in this place -[2835.60 --> 2836.68] Worshipping you -[2836.68 --> 2839.08] And offering you our prayers -[2839.08 --> 2842.42] Precisely because -[2842.42 --> 2844.04] You are sovereign God -[2844.04 --> 2845.18] Precisely because -[2845.18 --> 2847.04] Of who you are -[2847.04 --> 2848.26] Precisely because -[2848.26 --> 2850.10] Your providential hand -[2850.10 --> 2851.34] Guides and moves -[2851.34 --> 2852.82] Through this place -[2852.82 --> 2854.34] Through this city -[2854.34 --> 2855.70] Through this world -[2855.70 --> 2857.68] Through each of our hearts -[2857.68 --> 2859.14] We come to you -[2859.14 --> 2861.46] With the cries of our hearts -[2861.46 --> 2862.28] We come to you -[2862.28 --> 2864.46] With the longings of our souls -[2864.46 --> 2865.66] We come to you -[2865.66 --> 2866.66] Lord Jesus -[2866.66 --> 2869.24] Because you first came to us -[2869.24 --> 2873.40] And so hear our prayers -[2873.40 --> 2876.70] Father God -[2876.70 --> 2878.56] As we gather here in worship -[2878.56 --> 2880.10] We are so grateful -[2880.10 --> 2881.76] For Reactivate -[2881.76 --> 2883.24] And for all of these youth -[2883.24 --> 2884.02] And their leaders -[2884.02 --> 2886.12] Who are here with us -[2886.12 --> 2887.80] And we just pray -[2887.80 --> 2888.20] Lord -[2888.20 --> 2889.50] That the gospel -[2889.50 --> 2890.32] That they heard -[2890.32 --> 2891.64] Proclaimed this week -[2891.64 --> 2893.82] Would plant itself -[2893.82 --> 2895.68] Deep in their hearts -[2895.68 --> 2897.58] That the Jesus -[2897.58 --> 2898.56] That they saw -[2898.56 --> 2899.42] Or perhaps even -[2899.42 --> 2900.42] Were introduced to -[2900.42 --> 2901.50] For the first time -[2901.50 --> 2902.90] Would be made more -[2902.90 --> 2903.80] And more real -[2903.80 --> 2904.62] In their lives -[2904.62 --> 2908.26] Captivate their hearts -[2908.26 --> 2909.28] With your love -[2909.28 --> 2912.64] Compel them -[2912.64 --> 2913.82] In relationship to you -[2913.82 --> 2914.70] By your beauty -[2914.70 --> 2915.42] And the beauty -[2915.42 --> 2916.52] Of your gospel -[2916.52 --> 2919.60] And as each one -[2919.60 --> 2920.64] Goes today -[2920.64 --> 2921.86] From this weekend -[2921.86 --> 2923.80] We pray Lord God -[2923.80 --> 2924.52] That the faith -[2924.52 --> 2925.80] Grown in them -[2925.80 --> 2926.66] Would blossom -[2926.66 --> 2928.02] And bear fruit -[2928.02 --> 2928.78] In the harvest -[2928.78 --> 2929.76] Thirty, sixty -[2929.76 --> 2930.94] And one hundred fold -[2930.94 --> 2935.22] God we pray -[2935.22 --> 2936.38] That as they go -[2936.38 --> 2937.46] From this place -[2937.46 --> 2939.40] Impacted -[2939.40 --> 2941.04] By encountering you -[2941.04 --> 2941.78] This weekend -[2941.78 --> 2943.50] That they would know -[2943.50 --> 2944.74] Your kingdom come -[2944.74 --> 2945.82] And your kingdom coming -[2945.82 --> 2947.00] And they would reveal it -[2947.00 --> 2947.94] To the world -[2947.94 --> 2951.48] Use them Lord God -[2951.48 --> 2953.00] To light a fire -[2953.00 --> 2954.52] And to start a revival -[2954.52 --> 2955.68] In our midst -[2955.68 --> 2958.64] Bless them we pray -[2958.64 --> 2959.60] In Jesus name -[2959.60 --> 2963.78] Father as we gather -[2963.78 --> 2964.98] We gather as those -[2964.98 --> 2966.20] Who are crying out -[2966.20 --> 2966.72] For healing -[2966.72 --> 2968.24] We gather as those -[2968.24 --> 2969.56] Who are crying out -[2969.56 --> 2970.42] For restoration -[2970.42 --> 2971.42] In relationships -[2971.42 --> 2973.18] We gather as those -[2973.18 --> 2974.34] Who are celebrating -[2974.34 --> 2975.26] Your goodness -[2975.26 --> 2976.14] And we gather -[2976.14 --> 2976.90] As those -[2976.90 --> 2977.42] Lord God -[2977.42 --> 2978.82] Who have experienced -[2978.82 --> 2979.58] Your blessing -[2979.58 --> 2980.82] In a special way -[2980.82 --> 2981.66] This week -[2981.66 --> 2984.28] One of the beauties -[2984.28 --> 2985.46] Of the body of Christ -[2985.46 --> 2986.40] Is that we mourn -[2986.40 --> 2987.48] With those who mourn -[2987.48 --> 2988.22] And we rejoice -[2988.22 --> 2990.02] With those who rejoice -[2990.02 --> 2992.20] And so Lord God -[2992.20 --> 2993.26] We enter into -[2993.26 --> 2994.16] The lives -[2994.16 --> 2994.82] Of those -[2994.82 --> 2995.58] Who are mourning -[2995.58 --> 2996.48] This week -[2996.48 --> 2998.48] We remember -[2998.48 --> 2998.50] We remember -[2998.50 --> 2999.72] Wendy Badge -[2999.72 --> 3001.12] Who was a member -[3001.12 --> 3002.56] Here for some time -[3002.56 --> 3003.92] And who reached out -[3003.92 --> 3004.34] This week -[3004.34 --> 3005.32] To let us know -[3005.32 --> 3006.44] That her daughter -[3006.44 --> 3007.82] Just 55 years old -[3007.82 --> 3008.58] Passed away -[3008.58 --> 3010.12] After a sudden aneurysm -[3010.12 --> 3011.74] And so we pray -[3011.74 --> 3012.24] Lord God -[3012.24 --> 3013.84] Speak your love -[3013.84 --> 3014.58] And peace -[3014.58 --> 3016.02] To Wendy's heart -[3016.02 --> 3017.64] Help her to know -[3017.64 --> 3018.80] Your nearness -[3018.80 --> 3021.72] Father God -[3021.72 --> 3022.72] We pray for those -[3022.72 --> 3024.38] Who are crying out -[3024.38 --> 3025.36] In health concerns -[3025.36 --> 3027.38] Who need your presence -[3027.38 --> 3029.42] Who need your healing hand -[3029.42 --> 3030.04] Upon them -[3030.04 --> 3032.48] God you promise -[3032.48 --> 3033.18] In your word -[3033.18 --> 3033.88] That the prayer -[3033.88 --> 3034.86] Offered in faith -[3034.86 --> 3036.06] Will make the sick person -[3036.06 --> 3037.76] Well and so we pray -[3037.76 --> 3039.10] Bring healing -[3039.10 --> 3041.02] We pray -[3041.02 --> 3042.16] Bring peace -[3042.16 --> 3043.70] And comfort -[3043.70 --> 3045.68] We pray that you -[3045.68 --> 3046.34] Would be near to -[3046.34 --> 3046.94] Rose Vita -[3046.94 --> 3047.70] And all of her -[3047.70 --> 3048.62] Health concerns -[3048.62 --> 3050.18] We pray that you -[3050.18 --> 3050.64] Would give her -[3050.64 --> 3051.38] What she needs -[3051.38 --> 3052.48] And surround her -[3052.48 --> 3053.54] With your love -[3053.54 --> 3054.76] Surround her -[3054.76 --> 3055.56] With the body -[3055.56 --> 3056.12] Of Christ -[3056.12 --> 3056.96] That she might know -[3056.96 --> 3058.78] She is not alone -[3058.78 --> 3059.76] That she might know -[3059.76 --> 3061.42] That you are with her -[3061.42 --> 3062.38] That you will never -[3062.38 --> 3063.06] Leave her -[3063.06 --> 3064.14] Nor forsake her -[3064.14 --> 3065.18] That she might know -[3065.18 --> 3066.52] That through the presence -[3066.52 --> 3067.60] Of your church -[3067.60 --> 3069.08] As we surround her -[3069.08 --> 3070.06] In this time -[3070.06 --> 3072.96] God we pray -[3072.96 --> 3073.66] Much the same -[3073.66 --> 3074.12] For Ellen -[3074.12 --> 3075.60] We don't know -[3075.60 --> 3076.20] What it is -[3076.20 --> 3077.26] That has caused -[3077.26 --> 3078.28] This visit -[3078.28 --> 3079.06] To the hospital -[3079.06 --> 3079.86] And we pray -[3079.86 --> 3081.04] That you would -[3081.04 --> 3082.24] Use the hands -[3082.24 --> 3082.86] Of the doctors -[3082.86 --> 3083.52] And the nurses -[3083.52 --> 3084.90] To figure that out -[3084.90 --> 3085.64] And to provide -[3085.64 --> 3086.72] A measure of healing -[3086.72 --> 3088.48] We pray God -[3088.48 --> 3089.10] That if they are -[3089.10 --> 3090.50] Unable to figure it out -[3090.50 --> 3091.08] That still -[3091.08 --> 3091.98] Miraculously -[3091.98 --> 3092.94] You would provide -[3092.94 --> 3093.92] A measure of healing -[3093.92 --> 3094.70] For her -[3094.70 --> 3096.74] And in the midst -[3096.74 --> 3097.14] Of this -[3097.14 --> 3097.84] God we pray -[3097.84 --> 3099.00] To for her -[3099.00 --> 3099.68] Heart -[3099.68 --> 3100.86] And for her -[3100.86 --> 3102.02] Sense of peace -[3102.02 --> 3103.04] Even as she -[3103.04 --> 3104.60] Lives in the midst -[3104.60 --> 3105.50] Of this unknown -[3105.50 --> 3109.02] God we want to pray -[3109.02 --> 3109.92] As well for -[3109.92 --> 3111.92] Amanda's mom -[3111.92 --> 3112.58] As she too -[3112.58 --> 3113.94] Is in the hospital -[3113.94 --> 3114.74] And we're not sure -[3114.74 --> 3115.82] What the future is -[3115.82 --> 3116.36] For her -[3116.36 --> 3118.02] We pray that you -[3118.02 --> 3119.72] Would give her -[3119.72 --> 3120.98] A sense of peace -[3120.98 --> 3121.66] That you would -[3121.66 --> 3123.04] Give the whole family -[3123.04 --> 3123.98] A sense of comfort -[3123.98 --> 3124.40] And for -[3124.40 --> 3125.56] Kloss too -[3125.56 --> 3126.04] As he -[3126.04 --> 3128.54] Is back in Abbotsford -[3128.54 --> 3129.22] To be near -[3129.22 --> 3129.98] And as he -[3129.98 --> 3131.00] Also wrestles -[3131.00 --> 3132.02] With this time -[3132.02 --> 3132.90] In their life -[3132.90 --> 3133.44] And marriage -[3133.44 --> 3133.82] Together -[3133.82 --> 3135.94] Give them -[3135.94 --> 3136.64] What they need -[3136.64 --> 3137.86] And support -[3137.86 --> 3138.82] The family -[3138.82 --> 3139.60] As they also -[3139.60 --> 3140.28] Come around -[3140.28 --> 3142.10] And draw near -[3142.10 --> 3142.52] To mom -[3142.52 --> 3144.56] Give them all -[3144.56 --> 3147.32] Your unimaginable -[3147.32 --> 3148.56] And immeasurable -[3148.56 --> 3149.02] Peace -[3149.02 --> 3151.86] God we pray too -[3151.86 --> 3152.62] For Amy -[3152.62 --> 3153.24] That you would -[3153.24 --> 3153.70] Continue -[3153.70 --> 3155.94] To be near -[3155.94 --> 3156.34] To her -[3156.34 --> 3156.98] Even as she -[3156.98 --> 3157.90] Receives treatment -[3157.90 --> 3159.92] Give her -[3159.92 --> 3160.60] All that she -[3160.60 --> 3161.00] Needs -[3161.00 --> 3161.70] And give her -[3161.70 --> 3162.20] Strength -[3162.20 --> 3162.86] Lord God -[3162.86 --> 3163.46] To endure -[3163.46 --> 3164.20] This moment -[3164.20 --> 3166.34] And we pray -[3166.34 --> 3167.64] Similarly for -[3167.64 --> 3167.98] Anne -[3167.98 --> 3168.86] As she has -[3168.86 --> 3170.42] Injured her back -[3170.42 --> 3170.90] Give her -[3170.90 --> 3171.78] What she needs -[3171.78 --> 3172.92] And help her -[3172.92 --> 3173.48] Lord God -[3173.48 --> 3174.06] To recover -[3174.06 --> 3174.56] Well -[3174.56 --> 3175.98] And to return -[3175.98 --> 3176.94] To her life -[3176.94 --> 3178.22] As ordinary -[3178.22 --> 3180.02] We pray that -[3180.02 --> 3181.38] For all of those -[3181.38 --> 3183.16] Who are experiencing -[3183.16 --> 3184.16] Emotional -[3184.16 --> 3186.22] Or mental -[3186.22 --> 3187.12] Struggles -[3187.12 --> 3187.86] And difficulties -[3187.86 --> 3188.54] As well -[3188.54 --> 3189.10] Lord God -[3189.10 --> 3190.90] The pain -[3190.90 --> 3191.68] And anxiety -[3191.68 --> 3192.82] Of these moments -[3192.82 --> 3193.98] Can seem -[3193.98 --> 3194.80] Unfathomable -[3194.80 --> 3196.28] And can be so hard -[3196.28 --> 3196.94] To communicate -[3196.94 --> 3198.16] To those around us -[3198.16 --> 3198.52] And so -[3198.52 --> 3199.80] For those in the midst -[3199.80 --> 3200.50] Of the dark night -[3200.50 --> 3201.04] Of the soul -[3201.04 --> 3202.22] For those in the midst -[3202.22 --> 3204.50] Of feeling -[3204.50 --> 3205.68] Overwhelmed -[3205.68 --> 3206.38] By life -[3206.38 --> 3207.18] And circumstance -[3207.18 --> 3208.24] We pray -[3208.24 --> 3208.90] That you would -[3208.90 --> 3209.96] Not only -[3209.96 --> 3211.76] Buoy them up -[3211.76 --> 3212.56] And hold them -[3212.56 --> 3213.16] In the palm -[3213.16 --> 3213.76] Of your hand -[3213.76 --> 3214.50] But that you would -[3214.50 --> 3215.44] Surround them -[3215.44 --> 3216.20] With the right -[3216.20 --> 3216.88] Person -[3216.88 --> 3217.96] Or people -[3217.96 --> 3219.76] To encourage them -[3219.76 --> 3220.42] In this time -[3220.42 --> 3224.68] Heavenly Father -[3224.68 --> 3227.92] We thank you -[3227.92 --> 3229.64] For your amazing -[3229.64 --> 3231.12] Presence among us -[3231.12 --> 3232.76] And we especially -[3232.76 --> 3233.98] Give you thanks -[3233.98 --> 3235.50] For the volunteers -[3235.50 --> 3236.58] Who have made -[3236.58 --> 3237.38] This weekend -[3237.38 --> 3237.96] Possible -[3237.96 --> 3239.76] We praise your name -[3239.76 --> 3241.02] For faithful servants -[3241.02 --> 3241.68] Of the church -[3241.68 --> 3243.32] Who see this need -[3243.32 --> 3244.62] And who see this priority -[3244.62 --> 3245.74] And who come alongside -[3245.74 --> 3247.36] And who make that happen -[3247.36 --> 3248.88] And God -[3248.88 --> 3249.94] We give you praise -[3249.94 --> 3250.84] For them -[3250.84 --> 3252.50] For those who have -[3252.50 --> 3254.40] Served quietly -[3254.40 --> 3256.00] And behind the scenes -[3256.00 --> 3257.20] We give you praise -[3257.20 --> 3258.16] For them -[3258.16 --> 3259.22] For those who have -[3259.22 --> 3260.52] Carried tables -[3260.52 --> 3261.64] And cleaned tables -[3261.64 --> 3263.08] We give you praise -[3263.08 --> 3263.68] For them -[3263.68 --> 3264.46] For those who have -[3264.46 --> 3265.32] Prepared food -[3265.32 --> 3266.24] Who have looked -[3266.24 --> 3266.94] After parking -[3266.94 --> 3267.90] Who have been -[3267.90 --> 3269.22] In so many different places -[3269.22 --> 3270.08] Have cleaned more -[3270.08 --> 3270.96] Bathrooms than they -[3270.96 --> 3271.66] Care to admit -[3271.66 --> 3273.00] We give you praise -[3273.00 --> 3273.94] For them -[3273.94 --> 3276.04] And we thank you -[3276.04 --> 3276.44] Lord God -[3276.44 --> 3277.28] For this chance -[3277.28 --> 3278.30] To be together -[3278.30 --> 3279.90] As your church -[3279.90 --> 3282.12] We pray this -[3282.12 --> 3282.70] In the name -[3282.70 --> 3283.74] Of Jesus Christ -[3283.74 --> 3284.90] Our Lord and Savior -[3284.90 --> 3286.08] Amen -[3286.08 --> 3288.98] I'm going to invite -[3288.98 --> 3289.88] Curtis to come up -[3289.88 --> 3291.04] And he's going to -[3291.04 --> 3292.66] Invite Tim to come up -[3292.66 --> 3294.48] And introduce him to us -[3294.48 --> 3295.50] For the third time -[3295.50 --> 3300.28] So our theme -[3300.28 --> 3300.74] This weekend -[3300.74 --> 3301.40] As you can see -[3301.40 --> 3302.70] Is proclaim his salvation -[3302.70 --> 3303.70] Day after day -[3303.70 --> 3304.98] And we chose that theme -[3304.98 --> 3305.88] Specifically because -[3305.88 --> 3307.52] We wanted Tim and Charity -[3307.52 --> 3308.26] To be our speakers -[3308.26 --> 3308.72] This weekend -[3308.72 --> 3309.80] Because they're involved -[3309.80 --> 3310.74] In that work -[3310.74 --> 3312.40] Day in and day out -[3312.40 --> 3313.18] So it's kind of -[3313.18 --> 3314.06] A two-fold thing -[3314.06 --> 3315.16] They do this in their work -[3315.16 --> 3315.88] And then they come here -[3315.88 --> 3317.06] And they proclaim it to us -[3317.06 --> 3318.02] Day after day -[3318.02 --> 3318.74] Friday, Saturday -[3318.74 --> 3319.56] And Sunday -[3319.56 --> 3320.64] So I want to offer -[3320.64 --> 3322.14] A prayer of illumination -[3322.14 --> 3323.94] This is for two reasons -[3323.94 --> 3324.58] One for us -[3324.58 --> 3325.38] To prepare ourselves -[3325.38 --> 3326.22] To hear the word -[3326.22 --> 3327.54] Of God from Tim -[3327.54 --> 3329.08] And also to pray over Tim -[3329.08 --> 3329.92] As he is anointed -[3329.92 --> 3331.60] To give the word to us -[3331.60 --> 3332.68] So let me pray -[3332.68 --> 3335.34] Father God in heaven -[3335.34 --> 3336.80] You know where we come from -[3336.80 --> 3338.02] And you know who we are -[3338.02 --> 3339.44] And you have brought us here -[3339.44 --> 3340.24] So I pray Lord -[3340.24 --> 3341.46] That you would open our hearts -[3341.46 --> 3342.20] And our minds -[3342.20 --> 3343.74] To receive the words -[3343.74 --> 3344.72] That you have prepared -[3344.72 --> 3345.94] On Tim's heart -[3345.94 --> 3347.88] Lord work in him -[3347.88 --> 3349.22] To speak your truth -[3349.22 --> 3350.16] And to speak the word -[3350.16 --> 3350.76] To us -[3350.76 --> 3352.26] And Lord we want to give you -[3352.26 --> 3353.88] All the glory and praise -[3353.88 --> 3354.70] For your revelation -[3354.70 --> 3355.48] To us today -[3355.48 --> 3356.76] In your name we pray -[3356.76 --> 3357.36] Amen -[3357.36 --> 3362.80] Good morning again -[3362.80 --> 3364.74] So one of the -[3364.74 --> 3366.02] The key main verse -[3366.02 --> 3367.16] For this weekend -[3367.16 --> 3368.92] Was 1 Chronicles 16 -[3368.92 --> 3370.36] 23 and 24 -[3370.36 --> 3371.90] Which says -[3371.90 --> 3372.88] Sing to the Lord -[3372.88 --> 3373.78] All the earth -[3373.78 --> 3375.34] Proclaim his salvation -[3375.34 --> 3376.66] Day after day -[3376.66 --> 3378.26] Declare his glory -[3378.26 --> 3379.78] Among the nations -[3379.78 --> 3381.04] His marvelous deeds -[3381.04 --> 3382.00] Among the people -[3382.00 --> 3384.44] One of the big things -[3384.44 --> 3385.24] That we can do that -[3385.24 --> 3386.28] Through is -[3386.28 --> 3387.34] Through our testimony -[3387.34 --> 3389.16] Through our stories -[3389.16 --> 3389.74] And that's kind of -[3389.74 --> 3390.24] The cool thing -[3390.24 --> 3391.14] So this weekend -[3391.14 --> 3392.08] We kind of touched on -[3392.08 --> 3392.66] Friday night -[3392.66 --> 3393.52] We were touching on -[3393.52 --> 3395.46] Getting to know this -[3395.46 --> 3396.82] Getting to know your bible -[3396.82 --> 3399.12] Getting to know God's word -[3399.12 --> 3399.80] Getting to be able -[3399.80 --> 3400.96] To hear his voice -[3400.96 --> 3402.68] And understand his voice -[3402.68 --> 3404.66] Also spending time in prayer -[3404.66 --> 3406.58] Which then you also -[3406.58 --> 3407.62] Be able to get to know -[3407.62 --> 3408.26] God's voice -[3408.26 --> 3409.28] And be able to see -[3409.28 --> 3410.06] Where he's leading -[3410.06 --> 3410.88] Where he's guiding -[3410.88 --> 3412.44] If he's opening up doors -[3412.44 --> 3413.64] And if he's telling you -[3413.64 --> 3414.90] Hey I need you to -[3414.90 --> 3415.88] Talk to so and so -[3415.88 --> 3416.72] Hey I need you to -[3416.72 --> 3417.66] Speak to so and so -[3417.66 --> 3420.86] And the cool thing is -[3420.86 --> 3422.50] And so what we really did -[3422.50 --> 3424.62] Is we encouraged everybody -[3424.62 --> 3427.34] To share where they are -[3427.34 --> 3428.86] Because we can't be -[3428.86 --> 3430.36] Where everybody else is -[3430.36 --> 3431.18] We don't know -[3431.18 --> 3431.98] All the people -[3431.98 --> 3433.30] That everybody else does -[3433.30 --> 3434.44] You guys are related -[3434.44 --> 3435.40] To people that we -[3435.40 --> 3436.52] That I probably -[3436.52 --> 3437.50] Will never talk to -[3437.50 --> 3439.74] Just because of proximity -[3439.74 --> 3441.54] Or you know people -[3441.54 --> 3442.72] Or you're friends with people -[3442.72 --> 3444.10] And so you have that -[3444.10 --> 3445.08] Relationship and you -[3445.08 --> 3446.10] Have that built in -[3446.10 --> 3448.70] And so what we're -[3448.70 --> 3450.40] Encouraging is -[3450.40 --> 3451.94] Be missional -[3451.94 --> 3453.40] Wherever God has -[3453.40 --> 3454.24] Planted you -[3454.24 --> 3454.74] Bloom -[3454.74 --> 3456.16] And so -[3456.16 --> 3458.04] Be God's light -[3458.04 --> 3459.26] In those different areas -[3459.26 --> 3460.70] And then it was neat -[3460.70 --> 3461.34] Last night -[3461.34 --> 3462.76] Charity was able to -[3462.76 --> 3463.64] Share her testimony -[3463.64 --> 3464.68] As well -[3464.68 --> 3465.82] And encourage the kids -[3465.82 --> 3467.60] As well to be able to -[3467.60 --> 3469.40] Proclaim the gospel -[3469.40 --> 3471.48] And she gave examples -[3471.48 --> 3472.84] Of how God -[3472.84 --> 3475.02] Had used other people -[3475.02 --> 3475.80] In the past -[3475.80 --> 3476.98] To be able to -[3476.98 --> 3477.94] Share the gospel -[3477.94 --> 3478.46] With her -[3478.46 --> 3479.98] And had reached out -[3479.98 --> 3480.40] To her -[3480.40 --> 3481.06] And had -[3481.06 --> 3483.44] Illuminated her life -[3483.44 --> 3484.76] With his -[3484.76 --> 3485.52] Truth -[3485.52 --> 3488.34] This morning -[3488.34 --> 3489.88] I'm going to dig into -[3489.88 --> 3492.14] A bit of -[3492.14 --> 3493.32] Acts -[3493.32 --> 3494.00] We're going to -[3494.00 --> 3494.42] We're going to -[3494.42 --> 3494.88] Check out -[3494.88 --> 3495.40] Acts -[3495.40 --> 3496.82] Chapter 2 -[3496.82 --> 3498.38] Verses 37 -[3498.38 --> 3499.52] Through 47 -[3499.52 --> 3500.80] So if you guys -[3500.80 --> 3501.70] Have your Bibles -[3501.70 --> 3502.36] Pull them out -[3502.36 --> 3503.28] And open up -[3503.28 --> 3504.58] To that passage -[3504.58 --> 3506.22] One of the cool -[3506.22 --> 3506.92] Things was -[3506.92 --> 3507.72] Is when I saw -[3507.72 --> 3508.48] That it was -[3508.48 --> 3509.64] About declaring -[3509.64 --> 3510.60] Or proclaiming -[3510.60 --> 3511.32] His salvation -[3511.32 --> 3512.18] Day after day -[3512.18 --> 3513.04] Right away -[3513.04 --> 3513.84] I started thinking -[3513.84 --> 3514.74] Of the early church -[3514.74 --> 3515.40] I'm like -[3515.40 --> 3516.14] How do we get -[3516.14 --> 3516.96] To be to where -[3516.96 --> 3517.78] The early church -[3517.78 --> 3518.20] Was -[3518.20 --> 3519.96] When they just -[3519.96 --> 3520.54] Got to -[3520.54 --> 3521.96] When they just -[3521.96 --> 3522.90] Started proclaiming -[3522.90 --> 3524.08] The gospel -[3524.08 --> 3525.80] And the cool -[3525.80 --> 3526.56] Thing was -[3526.56 --> 3528.72] It's kind of -[3528.72 --> 3529.24] Interesting -[3529.24 --> 3530.04] If you start -[3530.04 --> 3530.58] Looking in the -[3530.58 --> 3531.26] Book of Acts -[3531.26 --> 3532.56] Peter just keeps -[3532.56 --> 3533.20] Going on -[3533.20 --> 3533.72] And he's like -[3533.72 --> 3533.94] Hey -[3533.94 --> 3534.50] You guys -[3534.50 --> 3535.04] Remember that -[3535.04 --> 3535.46] Jesus -[3535.46 --> 3536.60] Remember Jesus -[3536.60 --> 3537.36] That came here -[3537.36 --> 3537.86] You know -[3537.86 --> 3538.40] The guy that -[3538.40 --> 3538.92] You killed -[3538.92 --> 3539.66] And crucified -[3539.66 --> 3540.68] You know -[3540.68 --> 3541.10] The one that -[3541.10 --> 3541.66] God sent -[3541.66 --> 3542.18] He was the -[3542.18 --> 3542.64] Messiah -[3542.64 --> 3543.86] And so -[3543.86 --> 3544.36] He actually -[3544.36 --> 3545.02] Goes around -[3545.02 --> 3545.54] And he just -[3545.54 --> 3546.86] Boldly proclaims -[3546.86 --> 3547.02] It -[3547.02 --> 3548.34] And so -[3548.34 --> 3549.00] It's -[3549.00 --> 3549.54] And so -[3549.54 --> 3550.04] We're jumping -[3550.04 --> 3550.56] Right into -[3550.56 --> 3551.46] The middle -[3551.46 --> 3551.90] Of the -[3551.90 --> 3552.66] Chapter -[3552.66 --> 3554.22] But where -[3554.22 --> 3555.06] He's talking -[3555.06 --> 3555.56] About these -[3555.56 --> 3555.90] Things -[3555.90 --> 3557.52] Actually -[3557.52 --> 3557.76] I'm going -[3557.76 --> 3559.54] To read -[3559.54 --> 3562.58] Yeah -[3562.58 --> 3562.86] I'm going -[3562.86 --> 3563.24] To read -[3563.24 --> 3563.96] Chapter -[3563.96 --> 3564.82] Or verse -[3564.82 --> 3565.90] 36 as well -[3565.90 --> 3568.16] But yeah -[3568.16 --> 3568.66] So let's -[3568.66 --> 3569.08] Start here -[3569.08 --> 3570.26] So let -[3570.26 --> 3570.98] Everyone in -[3570.98 --> 3571.68] Israel know -[3571.68 --> 3572.34] For certain -[3572.34 --> 3573.74] That God -[3573.74 --> 3574.34] Has made -[3574.34 --> 3575.04] This Jesus -[3575.04 --> 3575.62] Whom you -[3575.62 --> 3576.36] Crucified -[3576.36 --> 3577.08] To be both -[3577.08 --> 3577.88] Lord and -[3577.88 --> 3578.34] Messiah -[3578.34 --> 3579.46] Peter's -[3579.46 --> 3579.82] Words -[3579.82 --> 3580.34] Pierced -[3580.34 --> 3580.86] The hearts -[3580.86 --> 3581.84] And they -[3581.84 --> 3582.64] Said to him -[3582.64 --> 3583.72] And to the -[3583.72 --> 3584.44] Other disciples -[3584.44 --> 3585.52] Brothers -[3585.52 --> 3586.04] What should -[3586.04 --> 3586.50] We do -[3586.50 --> 3587.84] Peter replied -[3587.84 --> 3588.42] Each of you -[3588.42 --> 3589.16] Must repent -[3589.16 --> 3589.94] Of your sins -[3589.94 --> 3590.58] And turn -[3590.58 --> 3591.18] To God -[3591.18 --> 3591.64] And be -[3591.64 --> 3592.26] Baptized -[3592.26 --> 3592.72] In the name -[3592.72 --> 3593.12] Of Jesus -[3593.12 --> 3593.58] Christ -[3593.58 --> 3593.94] For the -[3593.94 --> 3594.40] Forgiveness -[3594.40 --> 3595.52] Of your -[3595.52 --> 3596.02] Sins -[3596.02 --> 3597.26] Then you -[3597.26 --> 3597.78] Will receive -[3597.78 --> 3598.28] The gift -[3598.28 --> 3598.54] Of the -[3598.54 --> 3599.20] Holy Spirit -[3599.20 --> 3600.62] This promise -[3600.62 --> 3601.50] Is to you -[3601.50 --> 3602.28] And to your -[3602.28 --> 3602.70] Children -[3602.70 --> 3603.34] And even -[3603.34 --> 3603.72] To the -[3603.72 --> 3604.36] Gentiles -[3604.36 --> 3606.16] All who -[3606.16 --> 3606.72] Have been -[3606.72 --> 3607.18] Called -[3607.18 --> 3608.02] By the -[3608.02 --> 3608.32] Lord -[3608.32 --> 3608.62] Our -[3608.62 --> 3609.02] God -[3609.02 --> 3609.90] Then -[3609.90 --> 3610.22] Peter -[3610.22 --> 3610.82] Continued -[3610.82 --> 3611.28] Preaching -[3611.28 --> 3611.78] For a -[3611.78 --> 3612.48] Long time -[3612.48 --> 3614.46] Strongly -[3614.46 --> 3614.90] Urging -[3614.90 --> 3615.20] His -[3615.20 --> 3615.72] Listeners -[3615.72 --> 3616.14] Save -[3616.14 --> 3616.62] Yourself -[3616.62 --> 3617.02] From this -[3617.02 --> 3617.40] Crooked -[3617.40 --> 3618.12] Generation -[3618.12 --> 3620.76] Those who -[3620.76 --> 3621.28] Believed -[3621.28 --> 3622.04] That what -[3622.04 --> 3622.78] Peter said -[3622.78 --> 3623.76] Were baptized -[3623.76 --> 3624.54] And added -[3624.54 --> 3624.88] To the -[3624.88 --> 3625.14] Church -[3625.14 --> 3625.62] That day -[3625.62 --> 3625.90] About -[3625.90 --> 3626.28] Three -[3626.28 --> 3626.86] Thousand -[3626.86 --> 3627.36] In all -[3627.36 --> 3628.82] All the -[3628.82 --> 3629.18] Believers -[3629.18 --> 3629.78] Devoted -[3629.78 --> 3630.44] Themselves -[3630.44 --> 3630.82] To the -[3630.82 --> 3631.36] Apostles -[3631.36 --> 3631.78] Teaching -[3631.78 --> 3632.64] And to -[3632.64 --> 3632.82] The -[3632.82 --> 3633.46] Fellowship -[3633.46 --> 3634.16] And to -[3634.16 --> 3634.30] The -[3634.30 --> 3634.66] Sharing -[3634.66 --> 3635.02] In -[3635.02 --> 3635.62] Meals -[3635.62 --> 3636.50] Including -[3636.50 --> 3636.76] The -[3636.76 --> 3637.16] Lord's -[3637.16 --> 3637.48] Supper -[3637.48 --> 3638.36] And to -[3638.36 --> 3638.68] Prayer -[3638.68 --> 3640.24] A deep -[3640.24 --> 3640.68] Sense -[3640.68 --> 3641.24] Of awe -[3641.24 --> 3641.56] Came -[3641.56 --> 3641.82] Over -[3641.82 --> 3642.14] Them -[3642.14 --> 3642.80] All -[3642.80 --> 3643.66] And the -[3643.66 --> 3644.58] Apostles -[3644.58 --> 3645.10] Performed -[3645.10 --> 3645.44] Many -[3645.44 --> 3645.96] Miracles -[3645.96 --> 3646.48] Signs -[3646.48 --> 3646.98] And wonders -[3646.98 --> 3648.20] And all -[3648.20 --> 3648.38] The -[3648.38 --> 3648.80] Believers -[3648.80 --> 3649.16] Met -[3649.16 --> 3649.56] Together -[3649.56 --> 3649.76] In -[3649.76 --> 3649.98] One -[3649.98 --> 3650.36] Place -[3650.36 --> 3650.54] And -[3650.54 --> 3650.76] Shared -[3650.76 --> 3651.24] Everything -[3651.24 --> 3651.56] They -[3651.56 --> 3651.94] Had -[3651.94 --> 3652.20] They -[3652.20 --> 3652.56] Sold -[3652.56 --> 3652.78] Their -[3652.78 --> 3653.24] Property -[3653.24 --> 3653.58] And -[3653.58 --> 3654.14] Possessions -[3654.14 --> 3654.56] And -[3654.56 --> 3654.96] Shared -[3654.96 --> 3655.14] The -[3655.14 --> 3655.38] Money -[3655.38 --> 3655.90] With -[3655.90 --> 3656.20] Those -[3656.20 --> 3656.40] In -[3656.40 --> 3656.64] Need -[3656.64 --> 3657.60] They -[3657.60 --> 3658.06] Worshiped -[3658.06 --> 3658.36] Together -[3658.36 --> 3658.56] At -[3658.56 --> 3658.68] The -[3658.68 --> 3659.02] Temple -[3659.02 --> 3659.42] Each -[3659.42 --> 3659.76] Day -[3659.76 --> 3660.52] Met -[3660.52 --> 3660.72] In -[3660.72 --> 3661.14] Homes -[3661.14 --> 3661.40] For -[3661.40 --> 3661.58] The -[3661.58 --> 3661.98] Lord's -[3661.98 --> 3662.28] Supper -[3662.28 --> 3662.74] And -[3662.74 --> 3663.12] Shared -[3663.12 --> 3663.88] Their -[3663.88 --> 3664.36] Meals -[3664.36 --> 3664.70] With -[3664.70 --> 3665.08] Great -[3665.08 --> 3665.50] Joy -[3665.50 --> 3665.90] And -[3665.90 --> 3666.60] Generosity -[3666.60 --> 3668.20] All -[3668.20 --> 3668.38] The -[3668.38 --> 3668.70] While -[3668.70 --> 3669.30] Praising -[3669.30 --> 3669.78] God -[3669.78 --> 3670.34] And -[3670.34 --> 3670.90] Enjoying -[3670.90 --> 3671.06] The -[3671.06 --> 3671.24] Good -[3671.24 --> 3671.56] Will -[3671.56 --> 3672.24] Of -[3672.24 --> 3672.50] All -[3672.50 --> 3672.68] The -[3672.68 --> 3673.04] People -[3673.04 --> 3673.60] And -[3673.60 --> 3673.90] Each -[3673.90 --> 3674.26] Day -[3674.26 --> 3674.68] The -[3676.98 --> 3677.42] Those -[3677.42 --> 3677.64] Who -[3677.64 --> 3677.80] Were -[3677.80 --> 3678.10] Being -[3678.10 --> 3678.72] Saved -[3678.72 --> 3682.94] One -[3682.94 --> 3683.04] Of -[3683.04 --> 3683.14] The -[3683.14 --> 3683.36] Neat -[3683.36 --> 3683.68] Things -[3683.68 --> 3683.98] About -[3683.98 --> 3684.64] Reading -[3684.64 --> 3685.08] In -[3685.08 --> 3685.40] The -[3685.40 --> 3685.96] New -[3685.96 --> 3686.42] Testament -[3686.42 --> 3686.74] Is -[3686.74 --> 3687.28] Seeing -[3687.28 --> 3688.20] That -[3688.20 --> 3688.70] Boost -[3688.70 --> 3690.02] Seeing -[3690.02 --> 3690.28] That -[3690.28 --> 3690.62] Boost -[3690.62 --> 3690.90] Of -[3690.90 --> 3691.62] Numbers -[3691.62 --> 3691.82] Of -[3691.82 --> 3692.20] People -[3692.20 --> 3693.34] Coming -[3693.34 --> 3693.80] To -[3693.80 --> 3695.62] Christ -[3695.62 --> 3696.92] I -[3696.92 --> 3697.42] Pulled -[3697.42 --> 3697.62] Up -[3697.62 --> 3698.46] A -[3698.46 --> 3698.72] Few -[3698.72 --> 3700.28] These -[3700.28 --> 3700.40] Are -[3700.40 --> 3700.68] Not -[3700.68 --> 3701.32] Encouraging -[3701.32 --> 3701.96] Statistics -[3701.96 --> 3702.36] I'm -[3702.36 --> 3702.60] Just -[3702.60 --> 3702.76] Going -[3702.76 --> 3702.84] To -[3702.84 --> 3703.08] Warn -[3703.08 --> 3703.20] You -[3703.20 --> 3703.42] About -[3703.42 --> 3703.82] This -[3703.82 --> 3704.84] But -[3704.84 --> 3706.20] So -[3706.20 --> 3706.58] I -[3706.58 --> 3706.96] Pulled -[3706.96 --> 3707.22] It Up -[3707.22 --> 3707.36] On -[3707.36 --> 3707.84] Wikipedia -[3707.84 --> 3708.28] Wikipedia -[3708.28 --> 3708.60] Is -[3708.60 --> 3708.86] Like -[3708.86 --> 3709.08] Hey -[3709.08 --> 3709.98] 64% -[3709.98 --> 3710.48] Of -[3710.48 --> 3710.96] People -[3710.96 --> 3711.38] In -[3711.38 --> 3711.80] Canada -[3711.80 --> 3712.10] Or -[3712.10 --> 3712.30] In -[3712.30 --> 3712.94] North -[3712.94 --> 3713.34] America -[3713.34 --> 3714.06] Identify -[3714.06 --> 3714.28] As -[3714.28 --> 3714.68] Christian -[3714.68 --> 3715.30] In -[3715.30 --> 3715.90] 2021 -[3715.90 --> 3717.52] I'll -[3717.52 --> 3717.74] Touch -[3717.74 --> 3717.88] On -[3717.88 --> 3718.04] That -[3718.04 --> 3718.20] One -[3718.20 --> 3718.32] In -[3718.32 --> 3718.48] Like -[3718.48 --> 3718.72] Two -[3718.72 --> 3718.90] More -[3718.90 --> 3719.20] Slides -[3719.20 --> 3719.38] Here -[3719.38 --> 3719.60] But -[3719.60 --> 3720.70] And -[3720.70 --> 3720.94] Then -[3720.94 --> 3721.28] The -[3721.28 --> 3721.54] Next -[3721.54 --> 3721.80] One -[3721.80 --> 3722.14] Was -[3722.14 --> 3722.70] Muslim -[3722.70 --> 3723.22] Or -[3723.22 --> 3723.64] Other -[3723.64 --> 3724.12] Religion -[3724.12 --> 3724.52] Is -[3724.52 --> 3724.78] Also -[3724.78 --> 3725.04] The -[3725.04 --> 3725.56] Fastest -[3725.56 --> 3725.94] Growing -[3725.94 --> 3726.60] Religion -[3726.60 --> 3727.10] In -[3727.10 --> 3727.40] North -[3727.40 --> 3727.92] America -[3727.92 --> 3729.74] The -[3729.74 --> 3730.08] Next -[3730.08 --> 3730.44] One -[3730.44 --> 3731.46] So -[3731.46 --> 3731.66] This -[3731.66 --> 3731.82] One -[3731.82 --> 3732.00] Kind -[3732.00 --> 3732.10] Of -[3732.10 --> 3732.38] Also -[3732.38 --> 3732.94] Backs -[3732.94 --> 3733.06] Up -[3733.06 --> 3733.22] That -[3733.22 --> 3733.98] 64% -[3733.98 --> 3734.34] Thing -[3734.34 --> 3734.90] But -[3734.90 --> 3735.02] It -[3735.02 --> 3735.26] Also -[3735.26 --> 3735.76] Shows -[3735.76 --> 3735.96] The -[3736.96 --> 3737.76] So -[3737.76 --> 3738.52] Christian -[3738.52 --> 3739.48] Christianity -[3739.48 --> 3739.86] The -[3739.86 --> 3740.32] Largest -[3740.32 --> 3740.78] Religion -[3740.78 --> 3741.16] In -[3741.16 --> 3741.28] The -[3741.28 --> 3741.64] United -[3741.64 --> 3742.08] States -[3742.08 --> 3742.86] Experienced -[3742.86 --> 3743.16] A -[3743.16 --> 3743.72] 20th -[3743.72 --> 3744.20] Century -[3744.20 --> 3744.80] High -[3744.80 --> 3745.60] Of -[3745.60 --> 3746.88] 91% -[3746.88 --> 3747.36] Of -[3747.36 --> 3747.50] The -[3747.50 --> 3747.82] Total -[3747.82 --> 3748.52] Population -[3748.52 --> 3749.06] In -[3749.06 --> 3749.88] 1976 -[3749.88 --> 3750.98] This -[3750.98 --> 3751.50] Declined -[3751.50 --> 3751.68] To -[3751.68 --> 3753.10] 73.7 -[3753.10 --> 3753.52] By -[3753.52 --> 3754.12] 2016 -[3754.12 --> 3754.66] And -[3754.66 --> 3755.22] 64 -[3755.22 --> 3756.20] In -[3756.20 --> 3756.70] 2022 -[3756.70 --> 3758.00] So -[3758.00 --> 3758.36] It's -[3758.36 --> 3758.60] Not -[3758.60 --> 3758.92] Going -[3758.92 --> 3759.24] In -[3759.24 --> 3759.58] The -[3759.58 --> 3759.80] Right -[3759.80 --> 3760.32] Direction -[3760.32 --> 3760.66] That -[3760.66 --> 3760.80] We're -[3760.80 --> 3761.08] Hoping -[3761.08 --> 3761.38] For -[3761.38 --> 3763.02] Christianity -[3763.02 --> 3763.04] Christianity -[3763.04 --> 3763.66] Is -[3763.66 --> 3764.00] Also -[3764.00 --> 3764.80] The -[3764.80 --> 3765.02] Most -[3765.02 --> 3765.54] Adhered -[3765.54 --> 3765.92] Religion -[3765.92 --> 3766.58] In -[3766.58 --> 3767.12] Canada -[3767.12 --> 3767.92] With -[3767.92 --> 3768.14] Over -[3768.14 --> 3768.64] 19 -[3768.64 --> 3768.98] Million -[3768.98 --> 3769.58] Canadians -[3769.58 --> 3769.92] Or -[3769.92 --> 3771.12] 53.3 -[3771.12 --> 3772.04] Identifying -[3772.04 --> 3772.58] Themselves -[3772.58 --> 3773.20] In -[3773.20 --> 3773.32] The -[3773.32 --> 3773.74] 21 -[3773.74 --> 3774.32] Or -[3774.32 --> 3774.76] 2021 -[3774.76 --> 3775.58] Census -[3775.58 --> 3776.84] And -[3776.84 --> 3777.00] Then -[3777.00 --> 3777.18] The -[3777.18 --> 3777.44] Next -[3777.44 --> 3777.84] One -[3777.84 --> 3778.26] Is -[3778.26 --> 3779.10] This -[3779.10 --> 3779.24] One -[3779.24 --> 3779.38] Was -[3779.38 --> 3779.54] From -[3779.54 --> 3780.06] CTV -[3780.06 --> 3781.00] Only -[3781.00 --> 3782.30] 23% -[3782.30 --> 3783.00] Of -[3783.00 --> 3783.48] Canadians -[3783.48 --> 3784.12] In -[3784.12 --> 3785.04] 2019 -[3785.04 --> 3786.32] Reported -[3786.32 --> 3786.90] Attending -[3786.90 --> 3787.38] Group -[3787.38 --> 3787.94] Religious -[3787.94 --> 3788.54] Activities -[3788.54 --> 3788.84] Such -[3788.84 --> 3789.06] As -[3789.06 --> 3789.44] Church -[3789.44 --> 3790.00] Services -[3790.00 --> 3790.94] At -[3790.94 --> 3791.22] Least -[3791.22 --> 3791.58] Once -[3791.58 --> 3791.86] A -[3791.86 --> 3792.14] Month -[3792.14 --> 3793.10] That's -[3793.10 --> 3793.44] That's -[3793.44 --> 3793.88] Crazy -[3793.88 --> 3794.28] Like -[3794.28 --> 3794.54] That's -[3794.54 --> 3794.98] Crazy -[3794.98 --> 3795.32] Low -[3795.32 --> 3797.56] So -[3797.56 --> 3798.42] As -[3798.42 --> 3798.54] You -[3798.54 --> 3798.70] Can -[3798.70 --> 3799.02] See -[3799.02 --> 3800.02] Not -[3800.02 --> 3800.34] Going -[3800.34 --> 3800.48] In -[3800.48 --> 3800.56] A -[3800.56 --> 3800.74] Great -[3800.74 --> 3801.20] Direction -[3801.20 --> 3802.60] But -[3802.60 --> 3803.66] What -[3803.66 --> 3803.88] We're -[3803.88 --> 3804.22] Looking -[3804.22 --> 3804.50] At -[3804.50 --> 3804.70] Is -[3804.70 --> 3804.88] We're -[3804.88 --> 3805.10] Looking -[3805.10 --> 3805.26] At -[3805.26 --> 3805.36] A -[3805.36 --> 3805.62] World -[3805.62 --> 3805.98] That's -[3805.98 --> 3806.46] Sitting -[3806.46 --> 3806.64] There -[3806.64 --> 3806.78] And -[3806.78 --> 3807.08] Telling -[3807.08 --> 3807.32] Us -[3807.32 --> 3807.62] That -[3807.62 --> 3807.96] Girls -[3807.96 --> 3808.12] Can -[3808.12 --> 3808.24] Be -[3808.24 --> 3808.56] Boys -[3808.56 --> 3808.84] Boys -[3808.84 --> 3809.02] Can -[3809.02 --> 3809.16] Be -[3809.16 --> 3809.52] Girls -[3809.52 --> 3810.84] And -[3810.84 --> 3811.40] They're -[3811.40 --> 3811.64] Trying -[3811.64 --> 3811.74] To -[3811.74 --> 3811.96] Push -[3811.96 --> 3812.76] Pedophilia -[3812.76 --> 3813.12] And -[3813.12 --> 3813.38] All -[3813.38 --> 3813.70] Sorts -[3813.70 --> 3813.86] Of -[3813.86 --> 3814.18] Other -[3814.18 --> 3814.78] Issues -[3814.78 --> 3816.26] And -[3816.26 --> 3816.56] Human -[3816.56 --> 3817.64] Trafficking -[3817.64 --> 3818.16] Is -[3818.16 --> 3818.42] Like -[3818.42 --> 3818.64] The -[3818.64 --> 3819.32] Statistics -[3819.32 --> 3819.64] On -[3819.64 --> 3819.86] That -[3819.86 --> 3820.10] Is -[3820.10 --> 3820.32] Just -[3820.32 --> 3820.62] Through -[3820.62 --> 3820.82] The -[3820.82 --> 3821.10] Roof -[3821.10 --> 3821.32] And -[3821.32 --> 3821.54] It's -[3821.54 --> 3821.74] Just -[3821.74 --> 3822.00] It's -[3822.00 --> 3822.88] Heartbreaking -[3822.88 --> 3823.88] When -[3823.88 --> 3824.00] You -[3824.00 --> 3824.28] Look -[3824.28 --> 3824.40] At -[3824.40 --> 3824.56] All -[3824.56 --> 3824.76] These -[3824.76 --> 3825.10] Different -[3825.10 --> 3825.50] Things -[3825.50 --> 3826.36] It's -[3826.36 --> 3826.60] Not -[3826.60 --> 3826.86] Those -[3826.86 --> 3827.20] Things -[3827.20 --> 3827.52] As -[3827.52 --> 3827.82] Much -[3827.82 --> 3828.28] As -[3828.28 --> 3828.52] As -[3828.52 --> 3828.76] Being -[3828.76 --> 3828.94] The -[3828.94 --> 3829.26] Problem -[3829.26 --> 3829.50] It's -[3829.50 --> 3829.68] That -[3829.68 --> 3830.00] Ripple -[3830.00 --> 3830.40] Effect -[3830.40 --> 3830.98] Right -[3830.98 --> 3831.20] And -[3831.20 --> 3831.36] The -[3831.36 --> 3831.66] Root -[3831.66 --> 3832.18] Cause -[3832.18 --> 3832.66] Of -[3832.66 --> 3832.86] All -[3832.86 --> 3833.12] These -[3833.12 --> 3833.48] Things -[3833.48 --> 3833.74] Is -[3833.74 --> 3834.06] Sin -[3834.06 --> 3835.38] And -[3835.38 --> 3835.62] What -[3835.62 --> 3835.96] Is -[3835.96 --> 3836.62] The -[3836.62 --> 3836.96] Main -[3836.96 --> 3837.60] The -[3837.60 --> 3837.92] Main -[3837.92 --> 3840.82] The -[3840.82 --> 3841.08] Main -[3841.08 --> 3841.54] I -[3841.54 --> 3842.10] Guess -[3842.10 --> 3842.32] The -[3842.32 --> 3842.52] Main -[3842.52 --> 3842.94] Answer -[3842.94 --> 3843.28] To -[3843.28 --> 3843.62] Sin -[3843.62 --> 3844.38] Is -[3844.38 --> 3845.12] Jesus -[3845.12 --> 3845.60] Jesus -[3845.60 --> 3846.14] Saves -[3846.14 --> 3846.38] Us -[3847.64 --> 3848.26] Redeems -[3848.26 --> 3848.54] Us -[3848.54 --> 3848.88] Jesus -[3848.88 --> 3849.16] Is -[3849.16 --> 3849.30] The -[3849.30 --> 3849.50] Only -[3849.50 --> 3849.72] One -[3849.72 --> 3849.88] That -[3849.88 --> 3850.10] Is -[3850.10 --> 3850.40] Able -[3850.40 --> 3850.68] To -[3850.68 --> 3851.14] Redeem -[3851.14 --> 3851.40] Us -[3851.40 --> 3852.48] And -[3852.48 --> 3852.76] So -[3852.76 --> 3853.48] My -[3853.48 --> 3853.72] Big -[3853.72 --> 3853.96] Thing -[3853.96 --> 3854.22] Is -[3854.22 --> 3855.12] We're -[3855.12 --> 3855.52] Trying -[3855.52 --> 3855.90] To -[3855.90 --> 3856.32] We're -[3856.32 --> 3856.58] Looking -[3856.58 --> 3856.84] At -[3856.84 --> 3857.86] Racism -[3857.86 --> 3858.06] And -[3858.06 --> 3858.70] Hatred -[3858.70 --> 3858.94] And -[3858.94 --> 3859.42] Sickness -[3859.42 --> 3859.60] And -[3859.60 --> 3860.04] Death -[3860.04 --> 3861.06] And -[3861.06 --> 3861.40] Sometimes -[3861.40 --> 3861.76] We -[3861.76 --> 3861.94] Look -[3861.94 --> 3862.06] At -[3862.06 --> 3862.26] These -[3862.26 --> 3862.54] Different -[3862.54 --> 3862.80] Things -[3862.80 --> 3862.92] And -[3862.92 --> 3863.60] We're -[3863.60 --> 3863.80] Like -[3863.80 --> 3863.92] We -[3863.92 --> 3864.08] Need -[3864.08 --> 3864.18] To -[3864.18 --> 3864.54] Tackle -[3864.54 --> 3864.76] These -[3864.76 --> 3865.00] Things -[3865.00 --> 3865.16] And -[3865.16 --> 3865.26] We -[3865.26 --> 3865.40] Need -[3865.40 --> 3865.52] To -[3865.52 --> 3865.74] Fix -[3865.74 --> 3865.98] These -[3865.98 --> 3866.26] Things -[3866.26 --> 3866.40] And -[3866.40 --> 3866.48] We -[3866.48 --> 3866.64] Need -[3866.64 --> 3866.76] To -[3866.76 --> 3867.30] Sort -[3867.30 --> 3867.54] These -[3867.54 --> 3867.84] Different -[3867.84 --> 3868.14] Things -[3868.14 --> 3868.36] Out -[3868.36 --> 3868.88] A -[3868.88 --> 3869.06] Lot -[3869.06 --> 3869.18] Of -[3869.18 --> 3869.56] Times -[3869.56 --> 3870.16] I -[3870.16 --> 3870.44] Think -[3870.44 --> 3870.82] There's -[3870.82 --> 3870.98] A -[3870.98 --> 3871.18] Big -[3871.18 --> 3871.56] Part -[3871.56 --> 3872.62] And -[3872.62 --> 3872.98] We -[3872.98 --> 3873.26] Just -[3873.26 --> 3873.50] We -[3873.50 --> 3873.84] Touched -[3873.84 --> 3873.94] On -[3873.94 --> 3874.04] It -[3874.04 --> 3874.16] The -[3874.16 --> 3874.32] Other -[3874.32 --> 3874.58] Day -[3874.58 --> 3874.88] Too -[3874.88 --> 3875.66] About -[3875.66 --> 3876.98] Man -[3876.98 --> 3877.26] People -[3877.26 --> 3877.48] Need -[3877.48 --> 3877.60] To -[3877.60 --> 3877.78] Hear -[3877.78 --> 3877.92] A -[3877.92 --> 3878.26] Hope -[3878.26 --> 3879.04] People -[3879.04 --> 3879.50] Are -[3879.50 --> 3880.20] Looking -[3880.20 --> 3880.48] For -[3880.48 --> 3880.70] That -[3880.70 --> 3880.98] Hope -[3880.98 --> 3881.18] And -[3881.18 --> 3881.32] It -[3881.32 --> 3882.00] Talks -[3882.00 --> 3882.22] About -[3882.22 --> 3882.36] It -[3882.36 --> 3882.46] In -[3882.46 --> 3882.56] The -[3882.56 --> 3882.80] Bible -[3882.80 --> 3883.06] Where -[3883.06 --> 3883.28] He's -[3883.28 --> 3883.94] Saying -[3883.94 --> 3884.82] Always -[3884.82 --> 3885.14] Be -[3885.14 --> 3885.48] Ready -[3885.48 --> 3885.80] Like -[3885.80 --> 3885.96] In -[3885.96 --> 3886.20] First -[3886.20 --> 3886.46] Peter -[3886.46 --> 3886.76] 3 -[3886.76 --> 3887.24] 15 -[3887.24 --> 3887.90] He's -[3887.90 --> 3888.12] Always -[3888.12 --> 3889.30] Be -[3889.30 --> 3889.60] Ready -[3889.60 --> 3889.82] To -[3889.82 --> 3890.06] Give -[3890.06 --> 3890.18] An -[3890.18 --> 3890.56] Answer -[3890.56 --> 3890.84] For -[3890.84 --> 3891.02] The -[3891.02 --> 3891.38] Hope -[3891.38 --> 3891.62] That -[3891.62 --> 3891.78] You -[3891.78 --> 3892.26] Have -[3892.26 --> 3893.18] Always -[3893.18 --> 3893.54] Be -[3893.54 --> 3893.90] Ready -[3893.90 --> 3894.28] To -[3894.28 --> 3895.28] Encourage -[3895.28 --> 3895.78] People -[3895.78 --> 3896.18] With -[3896.18 --> 3896.34] The -[3896.34 --> 3896.60] Hope -[3896.60 --> 3896.80] That -[3896.80 --> 3896.94] You -[3896.94 --> 3897.24] Have -[3897.24 --> 3897.38] And -[3897.38 --> 3897.54] That -[3897.54 --> 3897.86] Hope -[3897.86 --> 3898.06] Is -[3898.06 --> 3898.46] Jesus -[3898.46 --> 3899.58] That's -[3899.58 --> 3899.68] Going -[3899.68 --> 3899.72] To -[3899.72 --> 3899.82] Be -[3899.82 --> 3899.96] The -[3899.96 --> 3900.18] Main -[3900.18 --> 3900.42] Thing -[3900.42 --> 3900.62] That's -[3900.62 --> 3900.82] Going -[3900.82 --> 3901.06] To -[3901.06 --> 3901.50] To -[3901.50 --> 3902.12] Solve -[3902.12 --> 3902.42] All -[3902.42 --> 3902.58] Of -[3902.58 --> 3902.78] Those -[3902.78 --> 3903.10] Different -[3903.10 --> 3903.56] Issues -[3903.56 --> 3906.74] When -[3906.74 --> 3906.88] We -[3906.88 --> 3907.08] Look -[3907.08 --> 3907.18] At -[3907.18 --> 3907.32] The -[3907.32 --> 3907.84] Book -[3907.84 --> 3908.02] Of -[3908.02 --> 3908.46] Acts -[3908.46 --> 3909.22] In -[3909.22 --> 3909.70] Their -[3909.70 --> 3910.14] Time -[3910.14 --> 3910.72] They -[3910.72 --> 3910.84] Were -[3910.84 --> 3911.06] Living -[3911.06 --> 3911.28] In -[3911.28 --> 3911.54] Rome -[3911.54 --> 3912.08] And -[3912.08 --> 3912.26] So -[3912.26 --> 3912.66] Rome -[3912.66 --> 3912.88] Was -[3912.88 --> 3913.28] Very -[3913.28 --> 3913.76] Much -[3913.76 --> 3914.66] It -[3914.66 --> 3914.82] Was -[3914.82 --> 3915.02] Even -[3915.02 --> 3915.42] Worse -[3915.42 --> 3915.68] It -[3915.68 --> 3915.84] Was -[3915.84 --> 3916.02] Even -[3916.02 --> 3916.36] Worse -[3916.36 --> 3916.56] Than -[3916.56 --> 3916.74] What -[3916.74 --> 3916.88] We -[3916.88 --> 3917.20] Have -[3917.20 --> 3917.68] To -[3917.68 --> 3917.92] This -[3917.92 --> 3918.20] Day -[3918.20 --> 3919.42] And -[3919.42 --> 3919.80] And -[3919.80 --> 3920.36] And -[3920.36 --> 3920.56] It -[3920.56 --> 3920.72] Was -[3920.72 --> 3921.02] Cool -[3921.02 --> 3921.22] To -[3925.78 --> 3926.14] Lourish -[3926.14 --> 3926.82] So -[3926.82 --> 3927.28] Because -[3927.28 --> 3927.50] We -[3927.50 --> 3927.72] Have -[3927.72 --> 3927.94] These -[3927.94 --> 3928.34] Fires -[3928.34 --> 3928.50] In -[3928.50 --> 3928.64] Our -[3928.64 --> 3929.32] Backyard -[3929.32 --> 3930.26] I -[3930.26 --> 3930.50] Actually -[3930.50 --> 3930.68] Took -[3930.68 --> 3930.80] A -[3930.80 --> 3931.08] Picture -[3931.08 --> 3931.32] On -[3931.32 --> 3931.46] The -[3931.46 --> 3931.70] Way -[3931.70 --> 3932.22] Over -[3932.22 --> 3933.78] I -[3933.78 --> 3933.96] Think -[3933.96 --> 3934.10] It's -[3934.10 --> 3934.26] Up -[3934.26 --> 3934.42] There -[3934.42 --> 3934.72] There -[3934.72 --> 3934.84] It -[3934.84 --> 3935.02] Is -[3935.02 --> 3936.10] There -[3936.10 --> 3936.54] Is -[3936.54 --> 3936.74] One -[3936.74 --> 3936.82] Of -[3936.82 --> 3936.94] The -[3936.94 --> 3937.38] Sections -[3937.38 --> 3937.64] Where -[3937.64 --> 3937.80] The -[3937.80 --> 3938.28] Fire -[3938.28 --> 3938.52] Just -[3938.52 --> 3938.78] Blew -[3938.78 --> 3939.02] Through -[3939.02 --> 3939.20] It -[3939.20 --> 3939.40] Went -[3939.40 --> 3939.62] Right -[3939.62 --> 3939.84] Next -[3939.84 --> 3939.96] To -[3939.96 --> 3940.06] The -[3940.06 --> 3940.38] Highway -[3940.38 --> 3940.74] And -[3940.74 --> 3941.10] Jumped -[3941.10 --> 3941.20] The -[3941.20 --> 3941.50] Highway -[3941.50 --> 3942.08] And -[3942.08 --> 3942.42] Everything -[3942.42 --> 3943.62] But -[3943.62 --> 3943.82] One -[3943.82 --> 3943.90] Of -[3943.90 --> 3944.00] The -[3944.00 --> 3944.26] Things -[3944.26 --> 3944.52] That -[3944.52 --> 3945.20] What -[3945.20 --> 3945.32] I -[3945.32 --> 3945.62] Looked -[3945.62 --> 3945.82] At -[3945.82 --> 3946.10] Through -[3946.10 --> 3946.50] This -[3946.50 --> 3947.32] Is -[3947.32 --> 3947.72] We -[3947.72 --> 3947.98] Live -[3947.98 --> 3948.12] In -[3948.12 --> 3948.26] An -[3948.26 --> 3948.62] Area -[3948.62 --> 3949.26] That -[3955.78 --> 3956.28] And -[3956.28 --> 3956.66] Homes -[3956.66 --> 3956.88] And -[3956.88 --> 3957.24] Stuff -[3957.24 --> 3957.66] Built -[3957.66 --> 3957.98] Into -[3957.98 --> 3958.28] Those -[3958.28 --> 3958.58] Different -[3958.58 --> 3958.80] Are -[3958.80 --> 3959.72] But -[3959.72 --> 3961.34] You -[3961.34 --> 3961.58] Look -[3961.58 --> 3961.78] At -[3961.78 --> 3962.08] The -[3962.08 --> 3962.44] Jack -[3962.44 --> 3962.84] Pine -[3962.84 --> 3963.50] Okay -[3963.50 --> 3963.76] So -[3963.76 --> 3963.90] I -[3963.90 --> 3964.12] Looked -[3964.12 --> 3964.28] This -[3964.28 --> 3964.44] Up -[3964.44 --> 3964.56] The -[3964.56 --> 3964.70] Other -[3964.70 --> 3964.92] Day -[3964.92 --> 3965.04] And -[3965.04 --> 3965.16] It -[3965.16 --> 3965.32] Says -[3965.32 --> 3965.68] Jack -[3965.68 --> 3966.02] Pine -[3966.02 --> 3966.20] And -[3966.20 --> 3966.64] Lodgepole -[3966.64 --> 3967.02] Pine -[3967.02 --> 3967.66] Have -[3967.66 --> 3968.92] Serotonous -[3968.92 --> 3969.52] You -[3969.52 --> 3969.72] Guys -[3969.72 --> 3969.88] Can -[3969.88 --> 3970.12] Use -[3970.12 --> 3970.38] That -[3970.38 --> 3970.56] One -[3970.56 --> 3970.88] Later -[3970.88 --> 3972.38] Serotonous -[3972.38 --> 3972.90] Cones -[3972.90 --> 3973.70] Which -[3973.70 --> 3974.02] Means -[3974.02 --> 3974.26] They're -[3974.26 --> 3974.88] Protected -[3974.88 --> 3975.06] By -[3975.06 --> 3975.28] Like -[3975.28 --> 3975.42] A -[3975.42 --> 3975.84] Waxy -[3975.84 --> 3976.38] Coating -[3976.38 --> 3977.44] That -[3977.44 --> 3978.12] Requires -[3978.12 --> 3978.58] Heat -[3978.58 --> 3978.82] Of -[3978.82 --> 3979.00] The -[3979.00 --> 3979.34] Fire -[3979.34 --> 3979.84] To -[3979.84 --> 3980.38] Release -[3980.38 --> 3980.66] Their -[3980.66 --> 3981.24] Seeds -[3981.24 --> 3982.30] So -[3982.30 --> 3982.70] Fire -[3982.70 --> 3983.14] Also -[3983.14 --> 3983.78] Produces -[3983.78 --> 3984.42] Favorable -[3984.42 --> 3985.02] Conditions -[3985.02 --> 3985.24] For -[3985.24 --> 3985.42] The -[3985.42 --> 3985.78] Seeds -[3985.78 --> 3986.30] That -[3986.30 --> 3986.54] These -[3986.54 --> 3987.00] Pines -[3987.00 --> 3987.34] Need -[3987.34 --> 3987.56] To -[3987.56 --> 3988.06] Germinate -[3988.06 --> 3988.82] Nutrients -[3988.82 --> 3989.00] Are -[3989.00 --> 3989.44] Released -[3989.44 --> 3989.80] Into -[3989.80 --> 3990.04] The -[3990.04 --> 3990.46] Soil -[3990.46 --> 3991.14] Mineral -[3991.14 --> 3992.02] Soil -[3992.02 --> 3992.30] Is -[3992.30 --> 3992.90] Exposed -[3992.90 --> 3994.28] Complete -[3994.28 --> 3994.94] Competing -[3994.94 --> 3995.52] Species -[3995.52 --> 3995.86] Are -[3995.86 --> 3996.24] Also -[3996.24 --> 3997.02] Eliminated -[3997.02 --> 3997.60] And -[3997.60 --> 3997.70] The -[3997.70 --> 3997.96] Amount -[3997.96 --> 3998.12] Of -[3998.12 --> 3998.60] Sunlight -[3998.60 --> 3998.82] In -[3998.82 --> 3998.96] The -[3998.96 --> 3999.30] Forest -[3999.30 --> 3999.68] Floor -[3999.68 --> 3999.96] Is -[3999.96 --> 4000.68] Increased -[4000.68 --> 4001.46] Both -[4001.46 --> 4001.96] Jack -[4001.96 --> 4002.30] And -[4002.30 --> 4002.78] Lodgepole -[4002.78 --> 4003.16] Pine -[4003.16 --> 4003.92] Depend -[4003.92 --> 4004.28] On -[4004.28 --> 4004.72] Fire -[4004.72 --> 4005.36] To -[4005.36 --> 4006.32] Regenerate -[4006.32 --> 4007.12] So -[4007.12 --> 4007.26] You -[4007.26 --> 4007.54] Look -[4007.54 --> 4007.72] At -[4007.72 --> 4008.00] This -[4008.00 --> 4008.50] And -[4008.50 --> 4008.64] You -[4008.64 --> 4008.94] So -[4008.94 --> 4009.08] You -[4009.08 --> 4009.28] Look -[4009.28 --> 4009.38] At -[4009.38 --> 4009.48] A -[4009.48 --> 4009.62] Big -[4009.62 --> 4009.98] Fire -[4009.98 --> 4010.34] That -[4010.34 --> 4010.62] Rips -[4010.62 --> 4010.86] Through -[4010.86 --> 4011.02] And -[4011.02 --> 4017.22] You -[4017.22 --> 4018.04] Like -[4018.04 --> 4018.82] Sometimes -[4018.82 --> 4019.48] You -[4019.48 --> 4019.80] Need -[4019.80 --> 4020.10] Those -[4020.10 --> 4020.72] Really -[4020.72 --> 4021.76] Hard -[4021.76 --> 4022.06] And -[4022.06 --> 4022.36] Tough -[4022.36 --> 4023.02] Conditions -[4023.02 --> 4023.36] To -[4023.36 --> 4023.52] Be -[4023.52 --> 4023.72] Able -[4023.72 --> 4023.90] To -[4023.90 --> 4024.14] Make -[4024.14 --> 4024.52] Things -[4024.52 --> 4024.70] To -[4024.70 --> 4024.82] Be -[4024.82 --> 4024.96] Able -[4024.96 --> 4025.12] To -[4025.12 --> 4026.10] Help -[4026.10 --> 4026.76] Produce -[4026.76 --> 4027.60] And -[4027.60 --> 4027.74] It -[4027.74 --> 4028.08] Forces -[4028.08 --> 4028.54] Things -[4028.54 --> 4028.98] Into -[4028.98 --> 4029.40] A -[4029.40 --> 4029.82] Production -[4029.82 --> 4030.44] Stage -[4030.44 --> 4031.26] So -[4031.26 --> 4032.36] And -[4032.36 --> 4032.52] It's -[4032.52 --> 4032.66] The -[4032.66 --> 4032.84] Same -[4032.84 --> 4033.04] Thing -[4033.04 --> 4033.20] With -[4033.20 --> 4033.36] Our -[4033.36 --> 4033.62] Faith -[4033.62 --> 4033.94] There's -[4033.94 --> 4034.06] A -[4034.06 --> 4034.18] Lot -[4034.18 --> 4034.30] Of -[4034.30 --> 4034.60] Times -[4034.60 --> 4034.82] Where -[4034.82 --> 4034.98] We -[4034.98 --> 4035.20] Look -[4035.20 --> 4035.34] At -[4035.34 --> 4035.66] Things -[4035.66 --> 4036.00] Around -[4036.00 --> 4036.24] Us -[4036.24 --> 4036.34] And -[4036.34 --> 4036.48] We -[4036.48 --> 4036.72] Like -[4036.72 --> 4036.96] Man -[4036.96 --> 4037.12] This -[4037.12 --> 4037.26] Is -[4037.26 --> 4037.66] Daunting -[4037.66 --> 4038.48] Man -[4038.48 --> 4038.68] This -[4038.68 --> 4038.82] Is -[4038.82 --> 4039.34] Depressing -[4039.34 --> 4039.78] Oh -[4039.78 --> 4039.94] It's -[4039.94 --> 4040.10] So -[4040.10 --> 4040.40] Bad -[4040.40 --> 4040.54] To -[4040.54 --> 4040.72] See -[4040.72 --> 4040.94] That -[4040.94 --> 4041.18] This -[4041.18 --> 4041.32] Is -[4041.32 --> 4041.70] Happening -[4041.70 --> 4041.86] And -[4041.86 --> 4042.04] That -[4042.04 --> 4042.18] Is -[4042.18 --> 4042.46] Happening -[4042.46 --> 4042.60] And -[4042.60 --> 4042.70] I -[4042.70 --> 4042.86] Think -[4042.86 --> 4043.30] Everybody -[4043.30 --> 4043.72] Has -[4043.72 --> 4044.30] I -[4044.30 --> 4044.40] Don't -[4044.40 --> 4044.58] Know -[4044.58 --> 4044.96] We've -[4044.96 --> 4045.10] All -[4045.10 --> 4045.28] Had -[4045.28 --> 4045.48] Those -[4045.48 --> 4045.80] People -[4045.80 --> 4046.16] Around -[4046.16 --> 4046.36] Us -[4046.36 --> 4046.52] That -[4046.52 --> 4046.62] Are -[4046.62 --> 4046.86] Sitting -[4046.86 --> 4047.06] There -[4047.06 --> 4047.18] And -[4047.18 --> 4047.34] They're -[4047.34 --> 4047.52] Like -[4047.52 --> 4048.02] Complaining -[4048.02 --> 4048.32] About -[4048.32 --> 4048.72] Everything -[4048.72 --> 4049.52] And -[4049.52 --> 4049.62] They -[4049.62 --> 4049.82] Have -[4049.82 --> 4050.24] Everything -[4050.24 --> 4050.44] To -[4050.44 --> 4050.56] Be -[4050.56 --> 4050.92] Afraid -[4050.92 --> 4051.16] Of -[4051.16 --> 4051.26] And -[4051.26 --> 4051.38] They -[4051.38 --> 4051.54] Have -[4051.54 --> 4051.98] Everything -[4051.98 --> 4052.28] And -[4052.28 --> 4052.52] Then -[4052.52 --> 4052.92] Or -[4052.92 --> 4053.22] Or -[4053.22 --> 4053.38] They -[4053.38 --> 4053.62] Spend -[4053.62 --> 4053.72] A -[4053.72 --> 4053.80] Little -[4053.80 --> 4053.92] Bit -[4053.92 --> 4054.08] Too -[4054.08 --> 4054.24] Much -[4054.24 --> 4054.50] Time -[4054.50 --> 4054.68] On -[4054.68 --> 4055.04] Internet -[4055.04 --> 4055.44] And -[4055.44 --> 4055.48] And -[4055.48 --> 4055.90] They -[4055.90 --> 4056.12] Have -[4056.12 --> 4056.40] All -[4056.40 --> 4056.42] S -[4056.42 --> 4056.74] Of -[4056.74 --> 4057.10] Amazing -[4057.10 --> 4057.52] Theories -[4057.52 --> 4057.76] About -[4057.76 --> 4058.04] A lot -[4058.04 --> 4058.16] Of -[4058.16 --> 4058.40] Things -[4058.40 --> 4059.76] And -[4059.76 --> 4060.36] And -[4060.36 --> 4060.48] You -[4060.48 --> 4060.70] Sit -[4060.70 --> 4060.92] There -[4060.92 --> 4061.02] And -[4061.02 --> 4061.16] You're -[4061.16 --> 4061.38] Like -[4061.38 --> 4061.68] Man -[4061.68 --> 4062.12] Just -[4062.12 --> 4062.46] Shut -[4062.46 --> 4062.68] That -[4062.68 --> 4062.90] Off -[4062.90 --> 4063.02] For -[4063.02 --> 4063.18] A -[4063.18 --> 4063.48] Second -[4063.48 --> 4064.06] Pick -[4064.06 --> 4064.20] Up -[4064.20 --> 4064.32] Your -[4064.32 --> 4064.72] Bible -[4064.72 --> 4065.52] And -[4065.52 --> 4065.76] Just -[4065.76 --> 4066.30] Spend -[4066.30 --> 4066.50] Some -[4066.50 --> 4066.74] Time -[4066.74 --> 4066.88] In -[4066.88 --> 4067.20] God's -[4067.20 --> 4067.42] Word -[4067.42 --> 4067.98] He -[4067.98 --> 4068.38] Has -[4068.38 --> 4068.88] Words -[4068.88 --> 4069.14] Of -[4069.14 --> 4069.60] Hope -[4069.60 --> 4070.18] All -[4070.18 --> 4070.70] Through -[4070.70 --> 4071.08] The -[4071.08 --> 4071.44] Bible -[4071.44 --> 4073.14] The -[4073.14 --> 4073.52] Early -[4073.52 --> 4073.94] Church -[4073.94 --> 4074.56] Flourished -[4074.56 --> 4074.86] Because -[4074.86 --> 4075.18] Of -[4075.18 --> 4075.52] These -[4075.52 --> 4075.84] Four -[4075.84 --> 4076.32] Things -[4076.32 --> 4078.18] Okay -[4078.18 --> 4078.68] First -[4078.68 --> 4078.96] One -[4078.96 --> 4079.28] Was -[4079.28 --> 4079.50] The -[4079.50 --> 4079.76] Holy -[4079.76 --> 4080.26] Spirit -[4080.26 --> 4081.18] If -[4081.18 --> 4081.32] We -[4081.32 --> 4081.56] Look -[4081.56 --> 4081.76] In -[4081.76 --> 4082.22] Acts -[4082.22 --> 4082.82] 1 -[4082.82 --> 4083.18] Verse -[4083.18 --> 4083.60] 8 -[4083.60 --> 4084.76] It -[4084.76 --> 4085.36] Says -[4085.36 --> 4086.66] Which -[4086.66 --> 4086.76] I -[4086.76 --> 4086.90] Think -[4086.90 --> 4087.02] Is -[4087.02 --> 4087.12] The -[4087.12 --> 4087.34] Next -[4087.34 --> 4087.60] One -[4087.60 --> 4088.96] Might -[4088.96 --> 4089.10] Not -[4089.10 --> 4089.26] Be -[4089.26 --> 4090.26] Oh -[4090.26 --> 4090.84] Never -[4090.84 --> 4091.00] Mind -[4091.00 --> 4091.32] This -[4091.32 --> 4091.66] Wasn't -[4091.66 --> 4091.80] The -[4091.80 --> 4091.98] Next -[4091.98 --> 4092.18] One -[4092.18 --> 4092.74] I -[4092.74 --> 4092.96] Lied -[4092.96 --> 4094.22] Okay -[4094.22 --> 4094.88] So -[4094.88 --> 4095.80] They -[4095.80 --> 4097.44] Devoted -[4097.44 --> 4098.46] Themselves -[4098.46 --> 4098.76] To -[4098.76 --> 4100.32] Being -[4100.32 --> 4100.72] Filled -[4100.72 --> 4100.98] So -[4100.98 --> 4101.16] The -[4101.16 --> 4101.38] Holy -[4101.38 --> 4101.72] Spirit -[4101.72 --> 4102.12] Came -[4102.12 --> 4102.38] In -[4102.38 --> 4102.74] Acts -[4102.74 --> 4103.14] Right -[4103.14 --> 4103.96] And -[4103.96 --> 4104.16] So -[4104.16 --> 4104.34] That -[4104.34 --> 4104.48] Was -[4104.48 --> 4104.58] The -[4104.58 --> 4104.70] Day -[4104.70 --> 4104.84] Of -[4104.84 --> 4105.38] Pentecost -[4105.38 --> 4106.02] And -[4106.02 --> 4106.16] You -[4106.16 --> 4106.50] See -[4106.50 --> 4106.88] How -[4106.88 --> 4107.10] The -[4107.10 --> 4107.46] Church -[4107.46 --> 4107.76] Gets -[4107.76 --> 4108.56] Empowered -[4108.56 --> 4108.74] By -[4108.74 --> 4108.92] The -[4108.92 --> 4109.16] Holy -[4109.16 --> 4109.60] Spirit -[4109.60 --> 4110.24] The -[4110.24 --> 4110.54] Next -[4110.54 --> 4110.94] Stage -[4110.94 --> 4111.34] Was -[4111.34 --> 4111.82] They -[4111.82 --> 4112.20] Devoted -[4112.20 --> 4112.86] Themselves -[4112.86 --> 4113.18] To -[4113.18 --> 4113.34] The -[4113.34 --> 4113.90] Apostles -[4113.90 --> 4114.28] Teaching -[4114.28 --> 4114.50] They -[4114.50 --> 4114.88] Devoted -[4114.88 --> 4115.38] Themselves -[4115.38 --> 4115.64] To -[4115.64 --> 4116.06] Scriptures -[4116.06 --> 4116.38] And -[4116.38 --> 4116.50] They -[4116.50 --> 4116.62] Were -[4116.62 --> 4117.02] Digging -[4117.02 --> 4117.28] Into -[4117.28 --> 4117.78] Scripture -[4117.78 --> 4118.44] Which -[4118.44 --> 4118.66] Was -[4118.66 --> 4119.60] Huge -[4119.60 --> 4120.80] The -[4120.80 --> 4121.00] Other -[4121.00 --> 4121.24] One -[4121.24 --> 4121.46] Was -[4121.46 --> 4121.68] That -[4121.68 --> 4121.84] They -[4121.84 --> 4122.22] Devoted -[4122.22 --> 4122.80] Themselves -[4122.80 --> 4123.26] To -[4123.26 --> 4124.08] Prayer -[4124.08 --> 4125.50] And -[4125.50 --> 4125.88] That's -[4125.88 --> 4126.18] In -[4126.18 --> 4126.60] Acts -[4126.60 --> 4127.20] 1 -[4127.20 --> 4127.82] 14 -[4127.82 --> 4128.50] And -[4128.50 --> 4128.60] That -[4128.60 --> 4128.78] One -[4128.78 --> 4129.16] Says -[4129.16 --> 4129.40] They -[4129.40 --> 4129.72] All -[4129.72 --> 4129.92] Met -[4129.92 --> 4130.38] Together -[4130.38 --> 4130.68] And -[4130.68 --> 4130.84] Were -[4130.84 --> 4131.60] Constantly -[4131.60 --> 4132.12] United -[4132.12 --> 4132.46] In -[4132.46 --> 4132.82] Prayer -[4132.82 --> 4133.50] Along -[4133.50 --> 4133.68] With -[4133.68 --> 4134.00] Mary -[4134.00 --> 4134.18] The -[4134.18 --> 4134.34] Mother -[4134.34 --> 4134.56] Of -[4134.56 --> 4134.82] Jesus -[4134.82 --> 4135.32] Several -[4135.32 --> 4135.72] Other -[4135.72 --> 4136.02] Women -[4136.02 --> 4136.42] And -[4136.42 --> 4136.56] The -[4136.56 --> 4136.76] Brother -[4136.76 --> 4136.98] Of -[4136.98 --> 4137.44] Jesus -[4137.44 --> 4139.30] And -[4139.30 --> 4139.60] Then -[4139.60 --> 4140.24] To -[4140.24 --> 4141.00] Cap -[4141.00 --> 4141.14] It -[4141.14 --> 4141.38] All -[4141.38 --> 4141.80] Off -[4141.80 --> 4142.40] So -[4142.40 --> 4142.68] There's -[4142.68 --> 4142.88] These -[4143.34 --> 4143.50] Things -[4143.50 --> 4143.66] It -[4143.66 --> 4143.80] Was -[4143.80 --> 4143.96] The -[4143.96 --> 4144.22] Holy -[4144.22 --> 4144.66] Spirit -[4144.66 --> 4144.98] They -[4144.98 --> 4145.08] Were -[4145.08 --> 4145.42] Devoted -[4145.42 --> 4145.60] To -[4145.60 --> 4145.76] The -[4145.76 --> 4146.16] Bible -[4146.16 --> 4147.02] Devoted -[4147.02 --> 4147.22] To -[4147.22 --> 4147.58] Prayer -[4147.58 --> 4148.44] And -[4148.44 --> 4148.58] They -[4148.58 --> 4149.40] Proclaimed -[4149.40 --> 4149.80] The -[4149.80 --> 4150.32] Gospel -[4150.32 --> 4151.22] Of -[4151.22 --> 4151.50] Jesus -[4151.50 --> 4152.04] Christ -[4152.04 --> 4152.32] They -[4152.32 --> 4152.98] Proclaimed -[4152.98 --> 4153.26] His -[4153.26 --> 4153.54] Good -[4153.54 --> 4153.92] News -[4153.92 --> 4154.20] Day -[4154.20 --> 4154.48] After -[4154.48 --> 4154.82] Day -[4154.82 --> 4155.90] And -[4155.90 --> 4156.10] That -[4156.10 --> 4156.28] Was -[4156.28 --> 4156.94] A -[4156.94 --> 4157.40] Huge -[4157.40 --> 4157.70] Huge -[4157.70 --> 4158.06] Piece -[4158.06 --> 4158.30] That -[4158.30 --> 4158.68] Really -[4158.68 --> 4158.96] All -[4158.96 --> 4159.00] A -[4159.00 --> 4159.26] Sudden -[4159.26 --> 4159.58] People -[4159.58 --> 4159.90] Started -[4159.90 --> 4160.12] To -[4160.12 --> 4160.52] Realize -[4160.52 --> 4160.66] They -[4160.66 --> 4160.82] Like -[4160.82 --> 4161.00] Oh -[4161.00 --> 4161.10] My -[4161.10 --> 4161.40] Goodness -[4161.40 --> 4162.60] Oh -[4162.60 --> 4162.72] My -[4162.72 --> 4162.92] Goodness -[4162.92 --> 4163.06] I -[4163.06 --> 4163.28] Need -[4163.28 --> 4163.48] This -[4163.48 --> 4163.94] And -[4163.94 --> 4164.18] So -[4164.18 --> 4164.62] You -[4164.62 --> 4164.90] Look -[4164.90 --> 4165.08] At -[4165.08 --> 4165.20] It -[4165.20 --> 4165.40] If -[4165.40 --> 4165.48] You -[4165.48 --> 4165.74] Take -[4165.74 --> 4165.92] One -[4165.92 --> 4166.00] Of -[4166.00 --> 4166.18] Those -[4166.18 --> 4166.46] Things -[4166.46 --> 4166.76] Out -[4166.76 --> 4167.32] You -[4167.32 --> 4167.42] Are -[4167.42 --> 4167.54] Going -[4167.54 --> 4167.58] To -[4167.58 --> 4167.72] Be -[4167.72 --> 4168.12] Very -[4168.12 --> 4168.92] Strongly -[4168.92 --> 4169.30] Hindered -[4169.30 --> 4169.50] So -[4169.50 --> 4169.62] You -[4169.62 --> 4169.80] Look -[4169.80 --> 4169.94] At -[4169.94 --> 4170.06] The -[4170.06 --> 4170.28] Holy -[4170.28 --> 4170.74] Spirit -[4170.74 --> 4171.22] If -[4171.22 --> 4171.32] You -[4171.32 --> 4171.52] Pull -[4171.52 --> 4171.68] The -[4171.68 --> 4171.88] Holy -[4171.88 --> 4172.22] Spirit -[4172.22 --> 4172.48] Out -[4172.48 --> 4172.74] From -[4172.74 --> 4172.98] Any -[4172.98 --> 4173.24] Sort -[4173.24 --> 4173.34] Of -[4173.34 --> 4173.70] Ministry -[4173.70 --> 4173.92] That -[4173.92 --> 4174.12] We -[4174.12 --> 4174.38] Do -[4174.38 --> 4175.40] We're -[4175.40 --> 4175.62] Dead -[4175.62 --> 4175.76] In -[4175.76 --> 4175.86] The -[4175.86 --> 4176.10] Water -[4176.10 --> 4176.30] We're -[4176.30 --> 4176.48] Not -[4176.48 --> 4176.82] Moving -[4176.82 --> 4177.10] We're -[4177.10 --> 4177.30] Not -[4177.30 --> 4177.58] Doing -[4177.58 --> 4177.96] Anything -[4177.96 --> 4178.26] We're -[4178.26 --> 4178.36] Going -[4178.36 --> 4178.46] To -[4178.46 --> 4178.68] Burn -[4178.68 --> 4178.92] Out -[4178.92 --> 4179.10] In -[4179.10 --> 4179.40] Fact -[4179.40 --> 4180.16] If -[4180.16 --> 4180.28] We -[4180.28 --> 4180.44] Do -[4180.44 --> 4180.76] Anything -[4180.76 --> 4181.02] Like -[4181.02 --> 4181.26] That -[4181.26 --> 4181.82] Because -[4181.82 --> 4182.06] What -[4182.06 --> 4182.24] We -[4182.24 --> 4182.40] Are -[4182.40 --> 4182.52] Going -[4182.52 --> 4182.60] To -[4182.60 --> 4182.76] Do -[4182.76 --> 4182.90] Is -[4182.90 --> 4183.04] We're -[4183.04 --> 4183.12] Going -[4183.12 --> 4183.20] To -[4183.20 --> 4183.44] Lean -[4183.44 --> 4183.68] On -[4183.68 --> 4184.04] Our -[4184.04 --> 4184.76] Strength -[4184.76 --> 4184.92] And -[4184.92 --> 4185.04] We're -[4185.04 --> 4185.14] Going -[4185.14 --> 4185.24] To -[4185.24 --> 4185.42] Try -[4185.42 --> 4185.56] To -[4185.56 --> 4185.84] Push -[4185.84 --> 4186.00] It -[4186.00 --> 4186.32] Forward -[4186.32 --> 4186.56] And -[4186.56 --> 4186.68] We're -[4186.68 --> 4186.76] Going -[4186.76 --> 4186.82] To -[4186.82 --> 4186.96] Try -[4186.96 --> 4187.08] To -[4187.08 --> 4187.52] Convince -[4187.52 --> 4187.92] People -[4187.92 --> 4188.42] And -[4188.42 --> 4188.62] That's -[4188.62 --> 4188.74] Not -[4188.74 --> 4188.86] What -[4188.86 --> 4189.10] People -[4189.10 --> 4189.38] Need -[4189.38 --> 4189.66] People -[4189.66 --> 4189.92] Don't -[4189.92 --> 4190.14] Need -[4190.14 --> 4190.22] To -[4190.22 --> 4190.34] Be -[4190.34 --> 4190.88] Convinced -[4190.88 --> 4191.44] They -[4191.44 --> 4191.76] Need -[4191.76 --> 4192.32] God -[4192.32 --> 4192.50] To -[4192.50 --> 4192.72] Work -[4192.72 --> 4192.86] On -[4192.86 --> 4193.02] Their -[4193.02 --> 4193.34] Heart -[4193.34 --> 4193.76] And -[4193.76 --> 4194.08] And -[4194.08 --> 4195.14] Strengthen -[4195.14 --> 4195.30] And -[4195.30 --> 4195.56] Mold -[4195.56 --> 4195.78] Them -[4195.78 --> 4196.04] That -[4196.04 --> 4196.28] Way -[4196.28 --> 4197.34] So -[4197.34 --> 4197.72] They -[4197.72 --> 4198.10] Needed -[4198.10 --> 4198.22] The -[4198.22 --> 4198.40] Holy -[4198.40 --> 4198.74] Spirit -[4198.74 --> 4198.94] They -[4198.94 --> 4199.18] Needed -[4199.18 --> 4199.32] The -[4199.32 --> 4199.66] Bible -[4199.66 --> 4200.52] They -[4200.52 --> 4200.74] Needed -[4200.74 --> 4200.86] To -[4200.86 --> 4201.02] Be -[4201.02 --> 4201.36] Devoted -[4201.36 --> 4201.56] To -[4201.56 --> 4201.92] Prayer -[4201.92 --> 4202.68] And -[4202.68 --> 4203.12] Proclaim -[4203.12 --> 4203.30] The -[4203.30 --> 4203.88] Gospel -[4203.88 --> 4204.08] Of -[4204.08 --> 4204.32] Jesus -[4204.32 --> 4204.82] Christ -[4204.82 --> 4206.22] So -[4206.22 --> 4207.24] And -[4207.24 --> 4207.42] Then -[4207.42 --> 4207.58] I -[4207.58 --> 4207.72] Think -[4207.72 --> 4208.04] That's -[4208.04 --> 4208.16] When -[4208.16 --> 4208.30] We -[4208.30 --> 4208.46] Had -[4208.46 --> 4208.70] Yeah -[4208.70 --> 4209.14] So -[4209.14 --> 4210.02] And -[4210.02 --> 4210.32] In -[4210.32 --> 4210.60] Acts -[4210.60 --> 4210.86] 1 -[4210.86 --> 4211.12] 8 -[4211.12 --> 4211.32] It -[4211.32 --> 4211.54] Says -[4211.54 --> 4211.90] But -[4211.90 --> 4212.08] You -[4212.08 --> 4212.24] Will -[4212.24 --> 4212.88] Receive -[4212.88 --> 4213.42] Power -[4213.42 --> 4214.24] When -[4214.24 --> 4214.40] The -[4214.40 --> 4214.62] Holy -[4214.62 --> 4215.02] Spirit -[4215.02 --> 4215.44] Comes -[4215.44 --> 4215.94] Upon -[4215.94 --> 4216.30] You -[4216.30 --> 4216.98] And -[4216.98 --> 4217.08] You -[4217.08 --> 4217.22] Will -[4217.22 --> 4217.38] Be -[4217.38 --> 4217.60] My -[4217.60 --> 4218.38] Witnesses -[4218.38 --> 4218.96] Telling -[4218.96 --> 4219.38] People -[4219.38 --> 4219.76] About -[4219.76 --> 4220.04] Me -[4220.04 --> 4220.82] Everywhere -[4220.82 --> 4221.30] In -[4221.30 --> 4221.86] Jerusalem -[4221.86 --> 4222.46] Through -[4222.46 --> 4223.18] Judea -[4223.18 --> 4223.70] In -[4223.70 --> 4224.28] Samaria -[4224.28 --> 4225.00] And -[4225.00 --> 4225.14] To -[4225.14 --> 4225.32] The -[4225.32 --> 4225.74] Ends -[4225.74 --> 4225.98] Of -[4225.98 --> 4226.14] The -[4226.14 --> 4226.54] Earth -[4226.54 --> 4228.12] I'm -[4228.12 --> 4228.78] Always -[4228.78 --> 4229.96] So -[4229.96 --> 4230.70] Encouraged -[4230.70 --> 4230.98] When -[4230.98 --> 4231.14] I -[4231.14 --> 4231.34] See -[4231.34 --> 4231.90] People -[4231.90 --> 4233.48] Jumping -[4233.48 --> 4233.64] Into -[4233.64 --> 4234.12] Ministry -[4234.12 --> 4234.64] We -[4234.64 --> 4235.16] Need -[4235.16 --> 4235.78] So -[4235.78 --> 4236.00] Many -[4236.00 --> 4236.20] More -[4236.20 --> 4236.54] People -[4236.54 --> 4236.72] In -[4236.72 --> 4237.10] Ministry -[4237.10 --> 4238.12] Some -[4238.12 --> 4238.38] Really -[4238.38 --> 4238.58] Good -[4238.58 --> 4238.88] Friends -[4238.88 --> 4239.04] Of -[4239.04 --> 4239.34] Ours -[4239.34 --> 4240.28] Peter -[4240.28 --> 4240.44] And -[4240.44 --> 4240.72] Elaine -[4240.72 --> 4241.00] Yoon -[4241.00 --> 4241.58] They -[4241.58 --> 4242.12] Serve -[4242.12 --> 4242.72] With -[4242.72 --> 4244.22] Oh -[4244.22 --> 4244.74] Man -[4244.74 --> 4246.48] Blanking -[4246.48 --> 4246.66] On -[4246.66 --> 4246.82] It -[4246.82 --> 4247.46] Anyways -[4247.46 --> 4248.04] Oh -[4248.04 --> 4248.52] Ethnos -[4248.52 --> 4248.78] They -[4248.78 --> 4249.10] Serve -[4249.10 --> 4249.28] With -[4249.28 --> 4249.76] Ethnos -[4249.76 --> 4249.94] And -[4249.94 --> 4250.10] They -[4250.10 --> 4250.48] Go -[4250.48 --> 4251.66] To -[4251.66 --> 4252.16] Indonesia -[4252.16 --> 4252.80] Anyways -[4252.80 --> 4253.00] They -[4253.00 --> 4253.26] Came -[4253.26 --> 4253.54] Back -[4253.54 --> 4253.74] For -[4253.74 --> 4253.86] A -[4253.86 --> 4254.12] While -[4254.12 --> 4254.50] And -[4254.50 --> 4254.82] It -[4254.82 --> 4254.96] Was -[4254.96 --> 4255.36] Awesome -[4255.36 --> 4255.54] To -[4255.54 --> 4255.76] Have -[4255.76 --> 4255.96] Them -[4255.96 --> 4256.34] It -[4256.34 --> 4256.46] Was -[4256.46 --> 4256.72] So -[4256.72 --> 4257.26] Encouraging -[4257.26 --> 4257.46] To -[4257.46 --> 4257.60] Be -[4257.60 --> 4257.82] With -[4257.82 --> 4258.04] Them -[4258.04 --> 4259.22] And -[4259.22 --> 4259.38] It -[4259.38 --> 4259.52] Was -[4259.52 --> 4259.74] One -[4259.74 --> 4259.86] Of -[4259.86 --> 4260.06] Those -[4260.06 --> 4260.38] Things -[4260.38 --> 4260.66] Where -[4260.66 --> 4260.92] There -[4260.92 --> 4261.02] Was -[4261.02 --> 4261.12] A -[4261.12 --> 4261.54] Part -[4264.12 --> 4264.58] I -[4264.58 --> 4265.30] Want -[4265.30 --> 4265.38] You -[4265.38 --> 4265.66] To -[4265.66 --> 4265.84] Stay -[4265.84 --> 4266.26] Here -[4266.26 --> 4266.70] And -[4266.70 --> 4266.92] You -[4266.92 --> 4267.22] Can -[4267.22 --> 4267.36] Do -[4267.36 --> 4267.62] Stuff -[4267.62 --> 4267.94] Here -[4267.94 --> 4268.24] But -[4268.24 --> 4268.38] At -[4268.38 --> 4268.50] The -[4268.50 --> 4268.72] Same -[4268.72 --> 4269.04] Time -[4269.04 --> 4269.28] Dude -[4269.28 --> 4269.40] I -[4269.40 --> 4269.54] Was -[4269.54 --> 4269.88] So -[4269.88 --> 4270.34] Happy -[4270.34 --> 4270.64] And -[4270.64 --> 4270.88] So -[4270.88 --> 4271.24] Stoked -[4271.24 --> 4271.48] That -[4271.48 --> 4272.06] They -[4272.06 --> 4272.22] Are -[4272.22 --> 4272.58] Going -[4272.58 --> 4273.52] Overseas -[4273.52 --> 4273.72] To -[4273.72 --> 4274.20] Indonesia -[4274.20 --> 4275.28] To -[4275.28 --> 4275.44] A -[4275.44 --> 4275.76] Tribe -[4275.76 --> 4275.94] That -[4275.94 --> 4276.12] They -[4276.12 --> 4276.52] Built -[4276.52 --> 4277.42] Relationship -[4277.42 --> 4277.76] With -[4277.76 --> 4278.40] And -[4278.40 --> 4278.58] They -[4278.58 --> 4278.70] Are -[4278.70 --> 4279.04] Sharing -[4279.04 --> 4279.22] The -[4279.22 --> 4279.62] Gospel -[4279.62 --> 4279.82] And -[4279.82 --> 4279.98] They're -[4279.98 --> 4280.28] Seeing -[4280.28 --> 4280.62] Things -[4280.62 --> 4281.00] Happen -[4281.00 --> 4281.12] And -[4281.12 --> 4281.24] They're -[4281.24 --> 4281.54] Seeing -[4281.54 --> 4281.92] God -[4281.92 --> 4282.30] Move -[4282.30 --> 4282.56] And -[4282.56 --> 4282.76] I'm -[4282.76 --> 4282.98] Like -[4282.98 --> 4283.34] Oh -[4283.34 --> 4283.68] That's -[4283.68 --> 4283.88] So -[4283.88 --> 4284.36] Cool -[4284.36 --> 4284.68] Like -[4284.68 --> 4284.90] It's -[4284.90 --> 4285.12] Just -[4285.12 --> 4285.66] It's -[4285.66 --> 4285.96] Neat -[4285.96 --> 4286.12] To -[4294.12 --> 4294.26] That -[4294.26 --> 4294.36] We -[4294.36 --> 4294.52] Can -[4294.52 --> 4294.90] Reach -[4294.90 --> 4295.90] And -[4295.90 --> 4296.12] So -[4296.12 --> 4296.44] That's -[4296.44 --> 4296.58] The -[4296.58 --> 4296.86] Beautiful -[4296.86 --> 4297.26] Thing -[4297.26 --> 4297.48] Is -[4297.48 --> 4297.74] Like -[4297.74 --> 4298.04] Man -[4298.04 --> 4298.18] If -[4298.18 --> 4298.28] You -[4298.28 --> 4298.48] Look -[4298.48 --> 4298.58] At -[4298.58 --> 4298.92] Everybody -[4298.92 --> 4299.16] In -[4299.16 --> 4299.34] This -[4299.34 --> 4299.56] Room -[4299.56 --> 4300.90] Is -[4300.90 --> 4301.22] Sharing -[4301.22 --> 4301.44] To -[4301.44 --> 4301.74] Ten -[4301.74 --> 4302.24] People -[4302.24 --> 4302.84] Like -[4302.84 --> 4303.10] We're -[4303.10 --> 4303.42] We're -[4303.42 --> 4303.72] Reaching -[4303.72 --> 4303.90] A -[4303.90 --> 4304.28] Thousand -[4304.28 --> 4304.68] People -[4304.68 --> 4304.96] In -[4304.96 --> 4305.26] No -[4305.26 --> 4305.60] Time -[4305.60 --> 4306.34] Right -[4306.34 --> 4307.12] So -[4307.12 --> 4307.90] It's -[4307.90 --> 4308.06] A -[4308.06 --> 4308.30] It's -[4308.30 --> 4308.42] A -[4308.42 --> 4308.66] Big -[4308.66 --> 4308.98] Thing -[4308.98 --> 4309.20] Of -[4309.20 --> 4309.54] Just -[4309.54 --> 4309.90] Working -[4309.90 --> 4310.34] Together -[4310.34 --> 4310.80] As -[4310.80 --> 4311.08] The -[4311.08 --> 4311.48] As -[4311.48 --> 4311.60] The -[4311.60 --> 4311.86] Body -[4311.86 --> 4312.04] Of -[4312.04 --> 4312.52] Believers -[4312.52 --> 4314.06] One -[4314.06 --> 4314.16] Of -[4314.16 --> 4314.26] The -[4314.26 --> 4314.44] Other -[4314.44 --> 4314.90] Stats -[4314.90 --> 4315.08] That -[4315.08 --> 4315.34] Came -[4315.34 --> 4315.62] Up -[4315.62 --> 4316.00] And -[4316.00 --> 4316.58] And -[4316.58 --> 4316.94] This -[4316.94 --> 4317.06] One -[4317.06 --> 4317.22] Was -[4317.22 --> 4317.44] Kind -[4317.44 --> 4317.62] Of -[4317.62 --> 4318.32] Really -[4324.12 --> 4324.30] The -[4324.30 --> 4324.68] Gospel -[4324.68 --> 4324.96] To -[4324.96 --> 4325.34] Anyone -[4325.34 --> 4326.64] And -[4326.64 --> 4326.88] That's -[4326.88 --> 4326.98] A -[4326.98 --> 4327.54] Concerning -[4327.54 --> 4327.90] That's -[4327.90 --> 4327.98] A -[4327.98 --> 4328.46] Concerning -[4328.46 --> 4328.88] Stat -[4328.88 --> 4329.16] And -[4329.16 --> 4329.32] So -[4329.32 --> 4329.50] That's -[4329.50 --> 4329.66] One -[4329.66 --> 4329.74] Of -[4329.74 --> 4329.92] Those -[4329.92 --> 4330.12] Things -[4330.12 --> 4330.30] Where -[4330.30 --> 4330.42] I -[4330.42 --> 4330.54] Want -[4330.54 --> 4330.62] To -[4330.62 --> 4330.98] Encourage -[4330.98 --> 4331.14] You -[4331.14 --> 4331.40] Guys -[4331.40 --> 4332.32] If -[4332.32 --> 4332.44] You -[4332.44 --> 4332.86] Haven't -[4332.86 --> 4333.30] Shared -[4333.30 --> 4333.46] The -[4333.46 --> 4333.90] Gospel -[4333.90 --> 4334.52] Super -[4334.52 --> 4334.90] Easy -[4334.90 --> 4335.22] You -[4335.22 --> 4335.38] Don't -[4335.38 --> 4335.60] Have -[4335.60 --> 4335.72] To -[4335.72 --> 4335.88] Know -[4335.88 --> 4336.04] All -[4336.04 --> 4336.16] The -[4336.16 --> 4336.58] Answers -[4336.58 --> 4337.24] In -[4337.24 --> 4337.46] Fact -[4337.46 --> 4337.64] That -[4337.64 --> 4337.74] Was -[4337.74 --> 4337.90] One -[4337.90 --> 4337.98] Of -[4337.98 --> 4338.08] The -[4338.08 --> 4338.30] Things -[4338.30 --> 4338.48] That -[4338.48 --> 4338.78] Actually -[4338.78 --> 4339.04] Kept -[4339.04 --> 4339.18] Me -[4339.18 --> 4339.32] Out -[4339.32 --> 4339.44] Of -[4339.44 --> 4339.76] Ministry -[4339.76 --> 4340.02] For -[4340.02 --> 4340.14] A -[4340.14 --> 4340.40] While -[4340.40 --> 4341.50] I -[4341.50 --> 4341.60] Was -[4341.60 --> 4341.84] I -[4341.84 --> 4342.40] Can't -[4342.40 --> 4342.54] Be -[4342.54 --> 4342.74] A -[4342.74 --> 4343.50] I -[4343.50 --> 4343.98] Missionary -[4343.98 --> 4344.12] I -[4344.12 --> 4344.24] Don't -[4344.24 --> 4344.42] Know -[4344.42 --> 4344.60] All -[4344.60 --> 4344.76] The -[4344.76 --> 4345.18] Answers -[4345.18 --> 4345.38] What -[4345.38 --> 4345.48] If -[4345.48 --> 4345.70] Somebody -[4345.70 --> 4345.90] Has -[4345.90 --> 4346.00] A -[4346.00 --> 4346.14] Really -[4346.14 --> 4346.34] Hard -[4346.34 --> 4346.80] Question -[4346.80 --> 4348.52] And -[4348.52 --> 4348.68] They -[4348.68 --> 4348.94] Will -[4348.94 --> 4349.44] And -[4349.44 --> 4349.64] I -[4349.64 --> 4349.92] Still -[4349.92 --> 4350.12] Don't -[4350.12 --> 4350.28] Know -[4350.28 --> 4350.42] All -[4350.42 --> 4350.52] The -[4350.52 --> 4350.84] Answers -[4350.84 --> 4351.10] But -[4351.10 --> 4351.20] It -[4351.20 --> 4351.34] Was -[4351.34 --> 4351.48] One -[4351.48 --> 4351.56] Of -[4351.56 --> 4351.74] Those -[4351.74 --> 4351.98] Things -[4351.98 --> 4352.18] Where -[4352.18 --> 4352.44] God -[4352.44 --> 4352.60] Was -[4352.60 --> 4352.84] Like -[4352.84 --> 4353.06] Hey -[4353.06 --> 4353.46] I -[4353.46 --> 4353.64] Need -[4353.64 --> 4353.80] Your -[4353.80 --> 4354.36] Obedience -[4354.36 --> 4354.62] Here -[4354.62 --> 4355.16] I'm -[4355.16 --> 4355.48] Calling -[4355.48 --> 4355.70] You -[4355.70 --> 4355.90] Into -[4355.90 --> 4356.22] This -[4356.22 --> 4356.42] And -[4356.42 --> 4356.56] I'm -[4356.56 --> 4356.84] Saying -[4356.84 --> 4357.18] You -[4357.18 --> 4357.36] Need -[4357.36 --> 4357.46] To -[4357.46 --> 4357.66] Do -[4357.66 --> 4357.96] This -[4357.96 --> 4358.48] And -[4358.48 --> 4358.88] He -[4358.88 --> 4359.06] Was -[4359.06 --> 4359.30] Like -[4359.30 --> 4359.58] I -[4359.58 --> 4359.76] Need -[4359.76 --> 4359.88] To -[4359.88 --> 4359.92] To -[4359.92 --> 4360.48] Step -[4360.48 --> 4360.70] Out -[4360.70 --> 4360.86] And -[4360.86 --> 4361.38] Start -[4361.38 --> 4361.64] Doing -[4361.64 --> 4361.88] This -[4361.88 --> 4362.10] Rather -[4373.50 --> 4374.40] Proclaim -[4374.40 --> 4374.58] His -[4374.58 --> 4375.06] Salvation -[4375.06 --> 4375.36] Day -[4375.36 --> 4375.60] After -[4375.60 --> 4375.88] Day -[4375.88 --> 4377.76] And -[4377.76 --> 4378.08] So -[4378.08 --> 4378.54] That's -[4378.54 --> 4378.68] One -[4378.68 --> 4378.76] Of -[4378.76 --> 4378.84] The -[4378.84 --> 4379.02] Things -[4379.02 --> 4379.18] I -[4379.18 --> 4379.30] Want -[4379.30 --> 4379.38] To -[4379.38 --> 4379.68] Encourage -[4379.68 --> 4379.84] You -[4379.84 --> 4380.06] Guys -[4380.06 --> 4380.20] In -[4380.20 --> 4380.34] If -[4380.34 --> 4380.44] You -[4380.44 --> 4380.60] Guys -[4380.60 --> 4380.70] Are -[4380.70 --> 4380.90] Sitting -[4380.90 --> 4381.08] There -[4381.08 --> 4381.18] And -[4381.18 --> 4381.26] You -[4381.26 --> 4381.48] Are -[4381.48 --> 4381.64] Like -[4381.64 --> 4381.92] Oh -[4381.92 --> 4382.16] Man -[4382.16 --> 4382.32] What -[4382.32 --> 4382.44] If -[4382.44 --> 4382.60] I -[4382.60 --> 4383.26] Share -[4383.26 --> 4383.40] The -[4383.40 --> 4383.72] Gospel -[4383.72 --> 4383.90] And -[4383.90 --> 4384.12] All -[4384.12 --> 4384.38] They -[4384.38 --> 4384.52] Have -[4384.52 --> 4385.00] Questions -[4385.00 --> 4385.66] And -[4385.66 --> 4385.82] I -[4385.82 --> 4385.98] Don't -[4385.98 --> 4386.12] Know -[4386.12 --> 4386.26] The -[4386.26 --> 4386.46] Answer -[4386.46 --> 4386.74] It's -[4386.74 --> 4386.94] Okay -[4386.94 --> 4387.10] To -[4387.10 --> 4388.48] I -[4388.48 --> 4388.64] Don't -[4388.64 --> 4388.82] Know -[4388.82 --> 4389.30] I'm -[4389.30 --> 4389.44] Not -[4389.44 --> 4389.66] Sure -[4389.66 --> 4390.00] Let's -[4390.00 --> 4390.20] Dig -[4390.20 --> 4390.42] Into -[4390.42 --> 4390.60] That -[4390.60 --> 4390.92] Together -[4390.92 --> 4391.30] Let's -[4391.30 --> 4391.52] Open -[4391.52 --> 4391.68] Up -[4391.68 --> 4391.80] The -[4391.80 --> 4392.08] Bible -[4392.08 --> 4392.44] Let's -[4392.44 --> 4392.56] See -[4403.50 --> 4403.68] That -[4403.68 --> 4403.82] There -[4403.82 --> 4404.08] Some -[4404.08 --> 4404.40] People -[4404.40 --> 4404.70] That -[4404.70 --> 4404.86] They -[4404.86 --> 4404.98] Can -[4404.98 --> 4405.26] Walk -[4405.26 --> 4405.48] Into -[4405.48 --> 4405.68] A -[4405.68 --> 4405.82] Room -[4405.82 --> 4406.16] Actually -[4406.16 --> 4406.34] My -[4406.34 --> 4406.60] Buddy -[4406.60 --> 4407.38] Peter -[4407.38 --> 4407.60] You -[4407.60 --> 4407.70] In -[4407.70 --> 4407.88] There -[4407.88 --> 4408.42] Who -[4408.42 --> 4408.60] In -[4408.60 --> 4409.26] Indonesia -[4409.26 --> 4409.76] He -[4409.76 --> 4409.94] Could -[4409.94 --> 4410.22] Walk -[4410.22 --> 4410.46] Into -[4410.46 --> 4410.68] A -[4410.68 --> 4410.88] Room -[4410.88 --> 4411.00] And -[4411.00 --> 4411.16] In -[4411.16 --> 4411.36] Like -[4411.36 --> 4411.70] Five -[4411.70 --> 4411.86] I -[4411.86 --> 4412.26] Dropped -[4412.26 --> 4412.42] Him -[4412.42 --> 4412.70] Off -[4412.70 --> 4413.10] One -[4413.10 --> 4413.42] Time -[4413.42 --> 4414.58] And -[4414.58 --> 4414.74] I -[4414.74 --> 4414.88] Was -[4414.88 --> 4415.04] Like -[4415.04 --> 4415.20] I'll -[4415.20 --> 4415.32] Be -[4415.32 --> 4415.56] Right -[4415.56 --> 4415.82] Back -[4415.82 --> 4415.94] In -[4415.94 --> 4416.38] Five -[4416.38 --> 4416.78] Minutes -[4416.78 --> 4416.98] I -[4416.98 --> 4417.22] Came -[4417.22 --> 4417.46] Back -[4417.46 --> 4417.60] In -[4417.60 --> 4417.84] Five -[4417.84 --> 4418.22] Minutes -[4418.22 --> 4418.42] And -[4418.42 --> 4418.58] He -[4418.58 --> 4419.18] Had -[4419.18 --> 4419.56] This -[4419.56 --> 4420.12] Deep -[4420.12 --> 4420.98] Theological -[4420.98 --> 4421.78] Conversation -[4421.78 --> 4422.00] With -[4422.00 --> 4422.32] A -[4422.32 --> 4422.76] Random -[4422.76 --> 4423.42] Stranger -[4423.42 --> 4423.96] At -[4423.96 --> 4424.16] This -[4424.16 --> 4424.44] Place -[4424.44 --> 4424.60] And -[4424.60 --> 4424.70] I -[4424.70 --> 4424.82] Was -[4424.82 --> 4425.00] Like -[4425.00 --> 4425.22] Oh -[4425.22 --> 4425.36] My -[4425.36 --> 4425.62] Goodness -[4425.62 --> 4425.82] I -[4425.82 --> 4425.90] Was -[4425.90 --> 4426.00] Like -[4426.00 --> 4426.20] This -[4426.20 --> 4426.32] Is -[4426.32 --> 4426.60] Awesome -[4426.60 --> 4426.76] And -[4426.76 --> 4426.86] He -[4426.86 --> 4427.84] Was -[4427.84 --> 4428.08] Just -[4428.08 --> 4428.84] Beaming -[4428.84 --> 4429.00] And -[4429.00 --> 4429.10] He -[4429.10 --> 4429.14] Is -[4429.14 --> 4429.28] Like -[4429.28 --> 4429.92] I -[4429.92 --> 4430.18] Think -[4430.18 --> 4430.78] Anybody -[4430.78 --> 4431.22] That -[4431.22 --> 4431.76] Me -[4431.76 --> 4432.40] Should -[4432.40 --> 4432.68] Know -[4432.68 --> 4432.88] Who -[4432.88 --> 4433.06] My -[4433.06 --> 4433.40] First -[4433.40 --> 4433.70] Love -[4433.70 --> 4433.96] Is -[4433.96 --> 4434.62] Should -[4434.62 --> 4434.96] Know -[4434.96 --> 4435.78] That -[4435.78 --> 4436.22] Main -[4436.22 --> 4436.66] Piece -[4436.66 --> 4437.00] About -[4437.00 --> 4437.26] Me -[4437.26 --> 4437.46] And -[4437.46 --> 4437.56] I -[4437.56 --> 4437.68] Was -[4437.68 --> 4437.80] Like -[4437.80 --> 4438.46] 100% -[4438.46 --> 4438.66] I -[4438.66 --> 4439.08] Totally -[4439.08 --> 4439.46] Agree -[4439.46 --> 4441.38] So -[4441.38 --> 4441.88] God -[4441.88 --> 4442.22] Knows -[4442.22 --> 4443.54] Who -[4443.54 --> 4443.74] You -[4443.74 --> 4444.00] Are -[4444.00 --> 4444.48] When -[4444.48 --> 4444.64] He -[4444.64 --> 4445.02] Calls -[4445.02 --> 4445.16] You -[4445.16 --> 4445.34] Into -[4445.34 --> 4445.74] Things -[4445.74 --> 4446.12] God -[4446.12 --> 4446.40] Knows -[4446.40 --> 4446.68] Each -[4446.68 --> 4446.90] One -[4446.90 --> 4447.02] Of -[4447.02 --> 4447.18] Us -[4447.18 --> 4447.44] God -[4447.44 --> 4447.68] Knows -[4447.68 --> 4447.86] Our -[4447.86 --> 4448.44] Failings -[4448.44 --> 4448.58] And -[4448.58 --> 4448.70] Our -[4448.70 --> 4449.14] Strengths -[4454.82 --> 4455.24] Those -[4455.24 --> 4455.88] Weaknesses -[4455.88 --> 4456.16] Look -[4456.16 --> 4456.50] Past -[4456.50 --> 4456.76] Those -[4456.76 --> 4457.06] Different -[4457.06 --> 4457.42] Things -[4457.42 --> 4458.10] And -[4458.10 --> 4458.50] And -[4458.50 --> 4459.02] Still -[4459.02 --> 4459.24] Be -[4459.24 --> 4459.70] Obedient -[4459.70 --> 4459.86] To -[4459.86 --> 4460.26] God's -[4460.26 --> 4460.60] Calling -[4460.60 --> 4461.10] And -[4461.10 --> 4461.76] Understand -[4461.76 --> 4462.12] That -[4462.12 --> 4462.40] It's -[4462.40 --> 4462.50] Going -[4462.50 --> 4462.56] To -[4462.56 --> 4462.68] Be -[4462.68 --> 4463.32] Uncomfortable -[4463.32 --> 4463.94] Sometimes -[4463.94 --> 4465.34] But -[4465.34 --> 4465.50] You're -[4465.50 --> 4465.68] Not -[4465.68 --> 4465.84] Going -[4465.84 --> 4465.96] To -[4465.96 --> 4466.32] Lose -[4466.32 --> 4467.98] Out -[4467.98 --> 4468.10] Of -[4468.10 --> 4468.22] The -[4468.22 --> 4468.38] Whole -[4468.38 --> 4468.68] Thing -[4468.68 --> 4469.32] If -[4469.32 --> 4469.60] Anything -[4469.60 --> 4469.84] You -[4469.84 --> 4470.24] Gain -[4470.24 --> 4470.92] Every -[4470.92 --> 4471.14] Time -[4471.14 --> 4471.30] That -[4471.30 --> 4471.40] You -[4471.40 --> 4471.64] Share -[4471.64 --> 4471.80] The -[4471.80 --> 4472.28] Gospel -[4472.28 --> 4472.78] It -[4472.78 --> 4473.42] Builds -[4473.42 --> 4473.58] Up -[4473.58 --> 4473.74] Your -[4473.74 --> 4474.18] Strength -[4474.18 --> 4474.36] It -[4474.36 --> 4474.64] Builds -[4474.64 --> 4474.78] Up -[4474.78 --> 4474.94] Your -[4474.94 --> 4475.36] Faith -[4475.36 --> 4475.98] And -[4475.98 --> 4476.08] It -[4476.08 --> 4476.38] Also -[4476.38 --> 4476.84] Builds -[4476.84 --> 4477.02] Up -[4477.02 --> 4477.24] Your -[4477.24 --> 4477.64] Ability -[4477.64 --> 4477.86] To -[4477.86 --> 4478.50] Dig -[4478.50 --> 4478.68] Into -[4478.68 --> 4479.04] Scripture -[4479.04 --> 4479.30] Because -[4479.30 --> 4479.74] Sometimes -[4479.74 --> 4479.98] They'll -[4479.98 --> 4480.20] Hit -[4480.20 --> 4480.32] You -[4480.32 --> 4480.50] With -[4480.50 --> 4481.00] Questions -[4481.00 --> 4481.20] That -[4481.20 --> 4481.30] You're -[4481.30 --> 4481.46] Like -[4481.46 --> 4481.64] Oh -[4481.64 --> 4481.78] I -[4481.78 --> 4481.94] Didn't -[4481.94 --> 4482.24] Think -[4482.24 --> 4482.48] About -[4482.48 --> 4482.76] That -[4482.76 --> 4483.48] Now -[4483.48 --> 4483.74] You're -[4483.74 --> 4484.08] Digging -[4484.08 --> 4484.30] Into -[4484.30 --> 4484.50] The -[4484.50 --> 4484.80] Scripture -[4484.80 --> 4485.14] Now -[4485.14 --> 4485.44] You're -[4485.44 --> 4485.76] Actually -[4485.76 --> 4486.14] Learning -[4486.14 --> 4486.34] And -[4486.34 --> 4486.54] You're -[4486.54 --> 4487.02] Edifying -[4487.02 --> 4487.24] Your -[4487.24 --> 4487.48] Life -[4487.48 --> 4487.70] Through -[4487.70 --> 4487.90] That -[4487.90 --> 4488.06] As -[4488.06 --> 4488.26] Well -[4488.26 --> 4489.64] I -[4489.64 --> 4491.88] Just -[4491.88 --> 4492.02] Want -[4492.02 --> 4492.12] To -[4492.12 --> 4493.44] End -[4493.44 --> 4493.66] With -[4493.66 --> 4493.86] This -[4493.86 --> 4494.14] Little -[4494.14 --> 4495.36] I -[4495.36 --> 4495.52] Don't -[4495.52 --> 4496.12] With -[4496.12 --> 4496.30] This -[4496.30 --> 4496.62] Bit -[4496.62 --> 4496.72] Of -[4496.72 --> 4496.86] A -[4496.86 --> 4497.20] Story -[4497.20 --> 4497.58] There's -[4497.58 --> 4497.98] A -[4497.98 --> 4500.42] There's -[4500.42 --> 4500.50] A -[4500.50 --> 4500.70] Guy -[4500.70 --> 4501.22] So -[4501.22 --> 4501.74] If -[4501.74 --> 4502.26] You -[4502.26 --> 4502.52] Are -[4502.52 --> 4502.86] Familiar -[4502.86 --> 4503.08] With -[4503.08 --> 4503.32] Penn -[4503.32 --> 4503.46] And -[4503.46 --> 4503.80] Teller -[4503.80 --> 4504.16] It's -[4504.16 --> 4504.78] That -[4504.78 --> 4505.34] Little -[4505.34 --> 4505.96] Magician -[4505.96 --> 4506.40] Duo -[4509.30 --> 4510.84] Penn Jillette -[4510.84 --> 4511.64] Is -[4511.64 --> 4512.04] He's -[4512.04 --> 4513.02] A -[4513.02 --> 4514.52] Self -[4514.52 --> 4515.08] Proclaimed -[4515.08 --> 4515.86] Atheist -[4515.86 --> 4517.42] But -[4517.42 --> 4517.50] It -[4517.50 --> 4517.62] Was -[4517.62 --> 4518.14] Interesting -[4518.14 --> 4518.36] Because -[4518.36 --> 4518.46] He -[4518.46 --> 4518.58] Was -[4518.58 --> 4518.86] Talking -[4518.86 --> 4519.08] About -[4519.08 --> 4519.28] This -[4519.28 --> 4519.88] Experience -[4519.88 --> 4520.08] That -[4520.08 --> 4520.20] He -[4520.20 --> 4520.54] Had -[4520.54 --> 4521.16] Where -[4521.16 --> 4522.26] He -[4522.26 --> 4522.42] Was -[4522.42 --> 4522.62] At -[4522.62 --> 4523.12] A -[4523.12 --> 4523.50] Fan -[4523.50 --> 4523.84] A -[4523.84 --> 4524.12] Fan -[4524.12 --> 4524.52] Table -[4524.52 --> 4524.86] A -[4524.86 --> 4525.10] Fan -[4525.10 --> 4525.42] Booth -[4525.42 --> 4525.68] Where -[4525.68 --> 4526.78] They -[4526.78 --> 4527.00] Were -[4527.00 --> 4527.48] They -[4527.48 --> 4527.64] Were -[4527.64 --> 4527.94] Like -[4527.94 --> 4528.16] It -[4528.16 --> 4528.34] Was -[4528.34 --> 4528.76] A -[4528.76 --> 4528.96] Time -[4528.96 --> 4529.08] To -[4529.08 --> 4529.16] Be -[4529.16 --> 4529.28] Able -[4529.28 --> 4529.38] To -[4529.38 --> 4529.60] Come -[4529.60 --> 4529.76] Up -[4529.76 --> 4529.96] Get -[4529.96 --> 4530.10] An -[4530.10 --> 4530.64] Autograph -[4530.64 --> 4530.90] And -[4530.90 --> 4531.14] Then -[4531.14 --> 4531.88] Take -[4531.88 --> 4532.14] Off -[4532.14 --> 4532.28] Or -[4532.28 --> 4532.52] Whatever -[4532.52 --> 4533.30] This -[4533.30 --> 4533.58] Guy -[4533.58 --> 4534.10] Showed -[4534.10 --> 4534.38] Up -[4534.38 --> 4534.88] And -[4534.88 --> 4535.36] He's -[4535.36 --> 4535.62] Like -[4535.62 --> 4535.98] Hey -[4535.98 --> 4536.50] He's -[4536.50 --> 4536.70] Like -[4536.70 --> 4536.90] I -[4536.90 --> 4537.10] Know -[4537.10 --> 4537.28] You're -[4537.28 --> 4537.40] An -[4537.40 --> 4537.86] Atheist -[4537.86 --> 4538.16] But -[4538.16 --> 4539.06] Here -[4539.06 --> 4539.56] And -[4539.56 --> 4539.66] He -[4539.66 --> 4539.84] Just -[4539.84 --> 4540.22] Hands -[4540.22 --> 4540.44] Him -[4540.44 --> 4540.96] And -[4540.96 --> 4541.06] He -[4541.06 --> 4541.42] Handed -[4541.42 --> 4541.56] Him -[4541.56 --> 4541.68] A -[4541.68 --> 4541.90] Little -[4541.90 --> 4542.66] Gideon's -[4542.66 --> 4542.96] Bible -[4542.96 --> 4544.26] And -[4544.26 --> 4544.44] He -[4544.44 --> 4544.58] Had -[4544.58 --> 4544.84] Wrote -[4544.84 --> 4545.38] Written -[4545.38 --> 4545.96] Written -[4545.96 --> 4546.32] Something -[4546.32 --> 4546.58] In -[4546.58 --> 4546.72] It -[4546.72 --> 4547.06] And -[4547.06 --> 4547.36] He's -[4547.36 --> 4547.50] Like -[4547.50 --> 4547.62] I -[4547.62 --> 4547.76] Just -[4547.76 --> 4547.90] Want -[4547.90 --> 4548.00] To -[4548.00 --> 4548.20] I -[4548.20 --> 4548.40] Want -[4548.40 --> 4548.52] You -[4548.52 --> 4548.64] To -[4548.64 --> 4548.88] Know -[4548.88 --> 4549.16] That -[4549.16 --> 4549.44] There -[4549.44 --> 4549.64] Is -[4549.64 --> 4550.24] Salvation -[4550.24 --> 4551.16] And -[4551.16 --> 4551.46] There -[4551.46 --> 4551.64] Is -[4551.64 --> 4551.76] A -[4551.76 --> 4551.92] Way -[4551.92 --> 4552.08] To -[4552.08 --> 4552.40] Heaven -[4552.40 --> 4553.32] And -[4553.32 --> 4553.40] It -[4553.40 --> 4553.56] Was -[4553.56 --> 4554.04] Interesting -[4554.04 --> 4554.40] To -[4554.40 --> 4554.82] See -[4554.82 --> 4556.36] Pendulet -[4556.36 --> 4556.72] His -[4556.72 --> 4559.34] Reaction -[4559.34 --> 4559.62] To -[4559.62 --> 4559.80] It -[4559.80 --> 4560.26] He -[4560.26 --> 4560.54] Wasn't -[4560.54 --> 4561.00] Offended -[4561.00 --> 4561.26] He -[4561.26 --> 4561.62] Wasn't -[4561.62 --> 4561.84] Like -[4566.90 --> 4568.08] Prosthelotizing -[4568.08 --> 4568.50] So -[4568.50 --> 4568.84] Which -[4568.84 --> 4569.08] Is -[4569.08 --> 4569.72] Essentially -[4569.72 --> 4570.12] Trying -[4570.12 --> 4570.26] To -[4570.26 --> 4570.66] Convert -[4570.66 --> 4571.62] But -[4571.62 --> 4571.82] He -[4571.82 --> 4572.18] Said -[4572.18 --> 4572.56] He -[4572.56 --> 4572.78] Said -[4572.78 --> 4572.92] That -[4572.92 --> 4573.06] He -[4573.06 --> 4573.36] He's -[4573.36 --> 4573.50] Like -[4573.50 --> 4573.68] I -[4573.68 --> 4574.12] Don't -[4574.12 --> 4574.70] Respect -[4574.70 --> 4576.30] People -[4576.30 --> 4576.64] Who -[4576.64 --> 4576.92] Don't -[4576.92 --> 4577.98] Prosthelotize -[4577.98 --> 4578.58] I -[4578.58 --> 4578.72] Don't -[4578.72 --> 4579.08] Respect -[4579.08 --> 4579.34] That -[4579.34 --> 4579.48] At -[4579.48 --> 4579.70] All -[4579.70 --> 4580.24] If -[4580.24 --> 4580.36] You -[4580.36 --> 4580.74] Believe -[4580.74 --> 4580.98] That -[4580.98 --> 4581.18] There -[4581.18 --> 4581.32] Is -[4581.32 --> 4581.48] A -[4581.48 --> 4581.86] Heaven -[4581.86 --> 4582.14] And -[4582.14 --> 4582.30] A -[4582.30 --> 4582.58] Hell -[4582.58 --> 4583.12] And -[4583.12 --> 4583.40] People -[4583.40 --> 4583.62] Could -[4583.62 --> 4583.82] Be -[4583.82 --> 4584.14] Going -[4584.14 --> 4584.38] To -[4584.38 --> 4584.72] Hell -[4584.72 --> 4585.52] And -[4585.52 --> 4586.12] And -[4586.12 --> 4586.50] Or -[4586.50 --> 4586.82] Not -[4586.82 --> 4587.18] Going -[4587.18 --> 4588.00] Or -[4588.00 --> 4588.26] Not -[4588.26 --> 4588.60] Getting -[4588.60 --> 4589.12] Eternal -[4589.12 --> 4589.62] Life -[4589.62 --> 4589.88] Or -[4589.88 --> 4590.22] Whatever -[4590.22 --> 4591.06] And -[4591.06 --> 4591.20] You -[4596.90 --> 4597.02] Who -[4597.02 --> 4597.34] Think -[4597.34 --> 4597.54] That -[4597.54 --> 4597.84] People -[4597.84 --> 4598.36] Shouldn't -[4598.36 --> 4600.10] Prosthelotize -[4600.10 --> 4600.76] Just -[4600.76 --> 4601.04] Leave -[4601.04 --> 4601.18] Me -[4601.18 --> 4601.56] Alone -[4601.56 --> 4602.30] Keep -[4602.30 --> 4602.44] Your -[4602.44 --> 4602.72] Religion -[4602.72 --> 4602.94] To -[4602.94 --> 4603.50] Yourself -[4603.50 --> 4604.58] How -[4604.58 --> 4604.86] Much -[4604.86 --> 4605.06] Do -[4605.06 --> 4605.18] You -[4605.18 --> 4605.44] Have -[4605.44 --> 4605.58] To -[4605.58 --> 4605.96] Hate -[4605.96 --> 4606.52] Somebody -[4606.52 --> 4607.48] Not -[4607.48 --> 4607.76] To -[4607.76 --> 4608.70] Prosthelotize -[4608.70 --> 4608.92] Not -[4608.92 --> 4609.08] To -[4609.08 --> 4609.30] Share -[4609.30 --> 4609.44] The -[4609.44 --> 4609.88] Gospel -[4609.88 --> 4611.80] Gillette -[4611.80 --> 4612.30] Asked -[4612.30 --> 4612.52] How -[4612.52 --> 4612.80] Much -[4612.80 --> 4612.98] Do -[4612.98 --> 4613.10] You -[4613.10 --> 4613.42] Have -[4613.42 --> 4613.62] To -[4613.62 --> 4613.88] Hate -[4613.88 --> 4614.38] Somebody -[4614.38 --> 4615.30] To -[4615.30 --> 4615.72] Believe -[4615.72 --> 4616.02] That -[4616.02 --> 4616.72] Everlasting -[4616.72 --> 4617.20] Life -[4617.20 --> 4617.52] Is -[4617.52 --> 4618.10] Possible -[4618.10 --> 4618.76] But -[4618.76 --> 4619.04] Not -[4619.04 --> 4619.38] Tell -[4619.38 --> 4619.64] Them -[4619.64 --> 4619.92] About -[4619.92 --> 4620.24] That -[4620.24 --> 4621.66] If -[4621.66 --> 4621.88] I -[4621.88 --> 4622.32] Believed -[4622.32 --> 4622.72] Beyond -[4622.72 --> 4622.92] A -[4622.92 --> 4623.32] Shadow -[4623.32 --> 4623.52] Of -[4623.52 --> 4623.66] A -[4623.66 --> 4623.88] Doubt -[4623.88 --> 4624.18] That -[4624.18 --> 4624.46] A -[4624.46 --> 4624.78] Truck -[4624.78 --> 4624.98] Was -[4624.98 --> 4625.30] Coming -[4625.30 --> 4625.54] At -[4625.54 --> 4625.76] You -[4625.76 --> 4626.22] And -[4626.22 --> 4626.94] You -[4626.94 --> 4627.26] Didn't -[4627.26 --> 4627.62] Believe -[4627.62 --> 4627.90] It -[4627.90 --> 4628.28] And -[4628.28 --> 4628.44] That -[4628.44 --> 4628.76] Truck -[4628.76 --> 4628.96] Was -[4628.96 --> 4629.34] Bearing -[4629.34 --> 4629.70] Down -[4629.70 --> 4629.92] On -[4629.92 --> 4630.12] You -[4630.12 --> 4630.64] There's -[4630.64 --> 4630.80] A -[4630.80 --> 4631.10] Certain -[4631.10 --> 4631.52] Point -[4631.52 --> 4631.88] Where -[4631.88 --> 4632.12] I -[4632.12 --> 4632.60] Tackle -[4632.60 --> 4632.84] You -[4632.84 --> 4633.94] And -[4633.94 --> 4634.36] This -[4634.36 --> 4634.82] Is -[4634.82 --> 4635.10] Way -[4635.10 --> 4635.40] More -[4635.40 --> 4635.92] Important -[4635.92 --> 4636.50] Than -[4636.50 --> 4636.80] That -[4636.80 --> 4638.92] One -[4638.92 --> 4639.04] Of -[4639.04 --> 4639.16] The -[4639.16 --> 4639.42] Things -[4639.42 --> 4639.64] That -[4639.64 --> 4639.76] I'm -[4639.76 --> 4640.08] Saying -[4640.08 --> 4640.36] Is -[4640.36 --> 4641.08] There's -[4641.08 --> 4641.26] A -[4641.26 --> 4641.52] Lot -[4641.52 --> 4641.66] Of -[4641.66 --> 4642.02] People -[4642.02 --> 4642.58] Who -[4642.58 --> 4642.86] Need -[4642.86 --> 4643.02] To -[4643.02 --> 4643.18] Know -[4643.18 --> 4643.44] About -[4643.44 --> 4643.78] Jesus -[4643.78 --> 4644.34] There's -[4644.34 --> 4644.50] A -[4644.50 --> 4644.72] Lot -[4644.72 --> 4644.84] Of -[4644.84 --> 4645.06] People -[4645.06 --> 4645.24] Who -[4645.24 --> 4645.62] Don't -[4645.62 --> 4645.80] Know -[4645.80 --> 4646.08] About -[4646.08 --> 4646.42] Jesus -[4646.42 --> 4646.88] There's -[4646.88 --> 4647.04] A -[4647.04 --> 4647.22] Lot -[4647.22 --> 4647.34] Of -[4647.34 --> 4647.62] People -[4647.62 --> 4647.94] Who -[4647.94 --> 4648.46] Want -[4648.46 --> 4648.62] To -[4648.62 --> 4648.92] Know -[4648.92 --> 4649.64] About -[4649.64 --> 4649.84] The -[4655.30 --> 4656.12] This -[4656.12 --> 4656.24] Is -[4656.24 --> 4656.38] A -[4656.38 --> 4656.60] Free -[4656.60 --> 4657.02] Gift -[4657.02 --> 4657.38] You -[4657.38 --> 4657.58] Guys -[4657.58 --> 4657.76] Can -[4657.76 --> 4658.06] Have -[4658.06 --> 4658.38] This -[4658.38 --> 4659.24] And -[4659.24 --> 4659.42] It's -[4659.42 --> 4659.82] Huge -[4659.82 --> 4661.82] In -[4661.82 --> 4662.08] Mark -[4662.08 --> 4662.66] 16 -[4662.66 --> 4662.92] Verse -[4662.92 --> 4663.36] 15 -[4663.36 --> 4663.58] It -[4663.58 --> 4663.78] Says -[4663.78 --> 4664.00] He -[4664.00 --> 4664.36] Said -[4664.36 --> 4664.68] He -[4664.68 --> 4665.00] Said -[4665.00 --> 4665.18] To -[4665.18 --> 4665.48] Them -[4665.48 --> 4666.84] Go -[4666.84 --> 4667.06] Into -[4667.06 --> 4667.40] All -[4667.40 --> 4667.58] The -[4667.58 --> 4667.90] World -[4667.90 --> 4668.30] And -[4668.30 --> 4668.72] Preach -[4668.72 --> 4668.96] The -[4668.96 --> 4669.42] Gospel -[4669.42 --> 4669.90] To -[4669.90 --> 4670.14] All -[4670.14 --> 4670.72] Creation -[4670.72 --> 4672.14] I -[4672.14 --> 4672.24] Have -[4672.24 --> 4672.32] A -[4672.32 --> 4672.52] Quick -[4672.52 --> 4672.74] Little -[4672.74 --> 4673.10] Video -[4673.10 --> 4673.76] Right -[4673.76 --> 4673.96] Here -[4673.96 --> 4674.10] At -[4674.10 --> 4674.24] The -[4674.24 --> 4674.56] End -[4674.56 --> 4674.98] That -[4674.98 --> 4675.16] I -[4675.16 --> 4675.36] Will -[4675.36 --> 4676.64] Share -[4676.64 --> 4676.84] With -[4676.84 --> 4676.92] You -[4676.92 --> 4677.36] No -[4677.36 --> 4678.04] Never -[4678.04 --> 4678.32] Not -[4678.32 --> 4678.46] Even -[4678.46 --> 4678.88] Once -[4678.88 --> 4680.06] No -[4680.06 --> 4681.30] Has -[4681.30 --> 4681.62] Anyone -[4681.62 --> 4681.92] Ever -[4681.92 --> 4682.20] Shared -[4682.20 --> 4682.36] The -[4682.36 --> 4682.66] Gospel -[4682.66 --> 4682.96] With -[4682.96 --> 4683.12] You -[4683.12 --> 4684.32] No -[4684.32 --> 4685.86] I -[4685.86 --> 4688.22] Haven't -[4688.22 --> 4688.36] Had -[4688.36 --> 4688.58] One -[4688.58 --> 4688.82] Share -[4688.82 --> 4689.00] With -[4689.00 --> 4689.08] Me -[4689.08 --> 4689.26] But -[4689.26 --> 4689.30] I -[4689.30 --> 4689.38] Have -[4689.38 --> 4689.54] Tried -[4689.54 --> 4689.64] To -[4689.64 --> 4689.78] Share -[4689.78 --> 4689.96] With -[4689.96 --> 4690.30] Others -[4690.30 --> 4690.86] No -[4690.86 --> 4692.08] I -[4692.08 --> 4693.58] Don't -[4693.58 --> 4693.76] Think -[4693.76 --> 4693.90] I -[4693.90 --> 4694.08] Have -[4694.08 --> 4694.54] That -[4694.54 --> 4694.96] Happened -[4694.96 --> 4697.26] What -[4697.26 --> 4697.46] Is -[4697.46 --> 4697.68] Kind -[4697.68 --> 4697.74] Of -[4697.74 --> 4697.86] Your -[4697.86 --> 4698.42] Understanding -[4698.42 --> 4698.66] Of -[4698.66 --> 4698.78] The -[4698.78 --> 4699.10] Gospel -[4699.10 --> 4699.82] Since -[4699.82 --> 4700.00] I -[4700.00 --> 4700.14] Guess -[4700.14 --> 4700.36] No -[4700.36 --> 4700.54] One -[4700.54 --> 4700.74] Has -[4700.74 --> 4700.96] Ever -[4700.96 --> 4701.26] Really -[4701.26 --> 4701.56] Kind -[4701.56 --> 4701.64] Of -[4701.64 --> 4701.88] Shared -[4701.88 --> 4701.98] It -[4701.98 --> 4702.18] With -[4702.18 --> 4702.36] You -[4702.36 --> 4702.78] I -[4702.78 --> 4703.30] Wouldn't -[4703.30 --> 4703.48] Say -[4703.48 --> 4703.62] I -[4703.62 --> 4703.82] Have -[4703.82 --> 4703.92] An -[4703.92 --> 4704.28] Understanding -[4704.28 --> 4704.52] Because -[4704.52 --> 4704.60] I -[4704.60 --> 4704.82] Never -[4704.82 --> 4705.50] Read -[4705.50 --> 4705.66] It -[4705.66 --> 4705.80] Or -[4705.80 --> 4707.04] Been -[4707.04 --> 4707.40] Introduced -[4707.40 --> 4707.54] To -[4707.54 --> 4707.66] It -[4707.66 --> 4707.80] I -[4707.80 --> 4708.06] Guess -[4708.06 --> 4708.70] Have -[4708.70 --> 4708.86] You -[4708.86 --> 4709.14] Ever -[4709.14 --> 4709.40] Had -[4709.40 --> 4709.52] A -[4709.52 --> 4709.80] Friend -[4709.80 --> 4710.12] Share -[4710.12 --> 4710.28] The -[4710.28 --> 4710.54] Gospel -[4710.54 --> 4710.78] With -[4710.78 --> 4710.94] You -[4710.94 --> 4711.66] Ever -[4711.66 --> 4711.94] Had -[4711.94 --> 4712.08] A -[4712.08 --> 4712.34] Friend -[4712.34 --> 4712.68] Share -[4712.68 --> 4712.82] The -[4712.82 --> 4713.08] Gospel -[4713.08 --> 4713.32] With -[4713.32 --> 4713.46] You -[4713.46 --> 4714.40] No -[4714.40 --> 4718.80] Anyways -[4718.80 --> 4719.54] That's -[4719.54 --> 4719.98] It's -[4719.98 --> 4720.20] It's -[4720.20 --> 4720.54] Amazing -[4720.54 --> 4720.76] To -[4720.76 --> 4720.94] See -[4720.94 --> 4721.14] How -[4721.14 --> 4721.36] Some -[4721.36 --> 4721.64] People -[4721.64 --> 4723.10] They're -[4723.10 --> 4723.34] Not -[4723.34 --> 4723.58] They're -[4723.58 --> 4723.76] Not -[4723.76 --> 4723.98] Put -[4723.98 --> 4724.26] Off -[4724.26 --> 4724.50] By -[4724.50 --> 4724.68] It -[4724.68 --> 4725.30] They -[4725.30 --> 4725.34] They -[4725.34 --> 4726.18] Actually -[4726.18 --> 4726.50] Want -[4726.50 --> 4726.62] It -[4726.62 --> 4726.78] They -[4726.78 --> 4727.20] Encourage -[4727.20 --> 4727.46] It -[4727.46 --> 4727.66] And -[4727.66 --> 4727.84] They -[4727.84 --> 4728.30] Look -[4728.30 --> 4728.64] Forward -[4728.64 --> 4728.90] To -[4728.90 --> 4729.06] It -[4729.06 --> 4729.26] And -[4729.26 --> 4729.38] It's -[4729.38 --> 4729.50] An -[4729.50 --> 4729.84] Option -[4729.84 --> 4730.42] It's -[4730.42 --> 4730.54] I -[4730.54 --> 4730.68] Mean -[4730.68 --> 4730.84] It's -[4730.84 --> 4730.96] An -[4730.96 --> 4731.56] Invitation -[4731.56 --> 4732.08] It's -[4732.08 --> 4732.74] One -[4732.74 --> 4732.82] Of -[4732.82 --> 4732.92] The -[4732.92 --> 4733.20] Best -[4733.20 --> 4733.92] Biggest -[4733.92 --> 4734.60] Invitations -[4734.60 --> 4734.88] That -[4734.88 --> 4735.08] I -[4735.08 --> 4735.28] Ever -[4735.28 --> 4735.56] Got -[4735.56 --> 4736.70] And -[4736.70 --> 4737.46] It's -[4737.46 --> 4737.60] One -[4737.60 --> 4737.68] Of -[4737.68 --> 4737.80] The -[4737.80 --> 4738.12] Best -[4738.12 --> 4738.46] Gifts -[4738.46 --> 4738.68] That -[4738.68 --> 4738.80] We -[4738.80 --> 4738.96] Can -[4738.96 --> 4739.34] Give -[4739.34 --> 4739.88] And -[4739.88 --> 4740.36] Continue -[4740.36 --> 4740.60] To -[4740.60 --> 4740.84] Share -[4740.84 --> 4741.12] And -[4741.12 --> 4741.56] Continue -[4741.56 --> 4741.82] To -[4741.82 --> 4743.92] Continue -[4743.92 --> 4744.42] To -[4744.42 --> 4745.12] Give -[4745.12 --> 4745.32] That -[4745.32 --> 4745.54] To -[4745.54 --> 4745.84] Others -[4745.84 --> 4746.08] As -[4746.08 --> 4746.30] Well -[4746.30 --> 4748.82] I'm -[4748.82 --> 4748.90] Going -[4748.90 --> 4749.00] To -[4749.00 --> 4749.52] Close -[4749.52 --> 4749.84] Us -[4749.84 --> 4750.30] With -[4750.30 --> 4750.60] A -[4750.60 --> 4751.16] Word -[4751.16 --> 4751.32] Of -[4751.32 --> 4751.54] Prayer -[4751.54 --> 4754.10] Father -[4754.10 --> 4754.48] God -[4754.48 --> 4754.86] We -[4754.86 --> 4755.08] Thank -[4755.08 --> 4755.20] You -[4755.20 --> 4755.44] So -[4755.44 --> 4755.78] Much -[4755.78 --> 4756.50] For -[4756.50 --> 4756.74] This -[4756.74 --> 4757.26] Weekend -[4757.26 --> 4758.14] We -[4758.14 --> 4758.38] Thank -[4758.38 --> 4758.50] You -[4758.50 --> 4758.66] For -[4758.66 --> 4758.96] Each -[4758.96 --> 4759.42] Person -[4759.42 --> 4760.02] That -[4760.02 --> 4760.26] Has -[4760.26 --> 4760.52] Been -[4760.52 --> 4760.74] Able -[4760.74 --> 4760.96] To -[4760.96 --> 4761.24] Be -[4761.24 --> 4761.76] Part -[4761.76 --> 4761.86] Of -[4761.86 --> 4762.04] This -[4762.04 --> 4762.42] Weekend -[4762.42 --> 4762.62] We -[4762.62 --> 4762.80] Thank -[4762.80 --> 4762.90] You -[4762.90 --> 4763.04] For -[4763.04 --> 4763.30] The -[4763.30 --> 4764.14] Volunteers -[4764.14 --> 4764.32] We -[4764.32 --> 4764.52] Thank -[4764.52 --> 4764.66] You -[4764.66 --> 4764.96] For -[4764.96 --> 4766.36] Those -[4766.36 --> 4766.50] Who -[4766.50 --> 4766.64] Have -[4766.64 --> 4766.78] Put -[4766.78 --> 4766.98] In -[4766.98 --> 4767.24] So -[4767.24 --> 4767.40] Much -[4767.40 --> 4767.68] Hard -[4767.68 --> 4767.96] Work -[4767.96 --> 4768.12] In -[4768.12 --> 4768.24] The -[4768.24 --> 4768.60] Planning -[4768.60 --> 4769.10] Committee -[4769.10 --> 4770.30] And -[4770.30 --> 4770.88] And -[4770.88 --> 4771.04] God -[4771.04 --> 4771.20] We -[4771.20 --> 4771.38] Thank -[4771.38 --> 4771.48] You -[4771.48 --> 4771.62] So -[4771.62 --> 4771.82] Much -[4771.82 --> 4772.06] Just -[4772.06 --> 4772.28] For -[4772.28 --> 4772.98] All -[4772.98 --> 4773.14] The -[4773.14 --> 4773.40] Youth -[4773.40 --> 4773.56] That -[4773.56 --> 4773.68] Have -[4773.68 --> 4773.80] Been -[4773.80 --> 4774.12] Here -[4774.12 --> 4774.76] God -[4774.76 --> 4774.90] I -[4774.90 --> 4775.00] Pray -[4775.00 --> 4775.20] That -[4775.20 --> 4775.42] You -[4775.42 --> 4775.82] Would -[4775.82 --> 4776.56] Empower -[4776.56 --> 4777.14] Your -[4777.14 --> 4777.60] Words -[4777.60 --> 4778.90] To -[4778.90 --> 4779.04] Be -[4779.04 --> 4779.20] Able -[4779.20 --> 4779.44] To -[4779.44 --> 4780.26] Stick -[4780.26 --> 4780.52] Into -[4780.52 --> 4780.72] The -[4780.72 --> 4781.08] Lives -[4781.08 --> 4781.40] Of -[4781.40 --> 4781.62] Each -[4781.62 --> 4781.82] One -[4781.82 --> 4781.98] Of -[4781.98 --> 4782.18] Us -[4782.18 --> 4782.44] God -[4782.44 --> 4782.60] I -[4782.60 --> 4782.74] Pray -[4782.74 --> 4782.90] That -[4782.90 --> 4783.04] We -[4783.04 --> 4783.20] Would -[4783.20 --> 4783.34] Be -[4783.34 --> 4783.54] Able -[4783.54 --> 4784.00] To -[4784.00 --> 4786.08] Be -[4786.08 --> 4786.84] Encouraged -[4786.84 --> 4788.48] Pray -[4788.48 --> 4788.64] That -[4788.64 --> 4788.76] We -[4788.76 --> 4788.98] Would -[4788.98 --> 4789.22] Just -[4789.22 --> 4789.62] Be -[4789.62 --> 4790.58] Constantly -[4790.58 --> 4792.08] Looking -[4794.66 --> 4795.30] Day -[4795.30 --> 4795.54] After -[4795.54 --> 4795.78] Day -[4795.78 --> 4796.12] God -[4796.12 --> 4796.28] I -[4796.28 --> 4796.44] Pray -[4796.44 --> 4796.60] That -[4796.60 --> 4796.68] We -[4796.68 --> 4796.86] Be -[4796.86 --> 4797.24] Sharing -[4797.24 --> 4797.90] Our -[4797.90 --> 4798.58] Testimony -[4798.58 --> 4798.86] Of -[4798.86 --> 4799.12] What -[4799.12 --> 4799.32] You -[4799.32 --> 4799.52] Been -[4799.52 --> 4799.80] Doing -[4799.80 --> 4799.96] In -[4799.96 --> 4800.10] Our -[4800.10 --> 4800.46] Life -[4800.46 --> 4800.84] And -[4800.84 --> 4801.02] How -[4801.02 --> 4801.18] You -[4801.18 --> 4801.42] Been -[4801.42 --> 4802.02] Active -[4802.02 --> 4803.34] And -[4803.34 --> 4803.58] Also -[4803.58 --> 4804.06] Sharing -[4804.06 --> 4804.56] Sharing -[4804.56 --> 4804.78] From -[4804.78 --> 4804.94] Your -[4804.94 --> 4805.22] Word -[4805.22 --> 4805.42] As -[4805.42 --> 4805.64] Well -[4805.64 --> 4806.00] And -[4806.00 --> 4806.20] What -[4806.20 --> 4806.50] You've -[4806.50 --> 4806.80] Done -[4806.80 --> 4808.86] In -[4808.86 --> 4809.00] The -[4809.00 --> 4809.38] Past -[4809.38 --> 4809.58] As -[4809.58 --> 4809.82] Well -[4809.82 --> 4810.18] And -[4810.18 --> 4810.40] God -[4810.40 --> 4810.54] I -[4810.54 --> 4810.66] Pray -[4810.66 --> 4810.84] That -[4810.84 --> 4810.96] You -[4810.96 --> 4811.10] Would -[4811.10 --> 4811.24] Just -[4811.24 --> 4811.72] Continue -[4811.72 --> 4812.36] To -[4812.36 --> 4813.36] Minister -[4813.36 --> 4813.64] To -[4813.64 --> 4813.86] Our -[4813.86 --> 4814.22] Souls -[4814.22 --> 4814.76] Minister -[4814.76 --> 4815.06] To -[4815.06 --> 4815.24] Our -[4815.24 --> 4815.80] Spirits -[4815.80 --> 4816.64] Encourage -[4816.64 --> 4817.00] Us -[4817.00 --> 4817.42] In -[4817.42 --> 4818.30] In -[4818.30 --> 4818.96] In -[4818.96 --> 4819.20] Some -[4819.20 --> 4819.32] Of -[4819.32 --> 4819.42] The -[4819.42 --> 4819.70] Are -[4819.70 --> 4819.94] That -[4819.94 --> 4820.10] We -[4824.66 --> 4824.78] Just -[4824.78 --> 4824.96] Give -[4824.96 --> 4825.14] Us -[4825.14 --> 4825.52] The -[4825.52 --> 4826.32] Boldness -[4826.32 --> 4826.66] And -[4826.66 --> 4826.76] The -[4826.76 --> 4827.18] Ability -[4827.18 --> 4827.70] To -[4827.70 --> 4829.30] Be -[4829.30 --> 4829.56] Filled -[4829.56 --> 4829.74] By -[4829.74 --> 4829.90] Your -[4829.90 --> 4830.12] Holy -[4830.12 --> 4830.50] Spirit -[4830.50 --> 4830.80] To -[4830.80 --> 4831.26] Share -[4831.26 --> 4831.44] The -[4831.44 --> 4831.88] Gospel -[4831.88 --> 4832.52] To -[4832.52 --> 4833.64] Understand -[4833.64 --> 4833.94] Your -[4833.94 --> 4834.30] Gospel -[4834.30 --> 4834.64] More -[4834.64 --> 4834.78] And -[4834.78 --> 4834.96] More -[4834.96 --> 4835.50] And -[4835.50 --> 4835.92] To -[4835.92 --> 4837.14] Fully -[4837.14 --> 4838.86] Embrace -[4838.86 --> 4839.60] Embrace -[4839.60 --> 4839.78] It -[4839.78 --> 4840.08] God -[4840.08 --> 4841.76] We -[4841.76 --> 4841.92] Love -[4841.92 --> 4842.04] You -[4842.04 --> 4842.44] Jesus -[4842.44 --> 4843.08] In -[4843.08 --> 4843.18] Your -[4843.18 --> 4843.32] Name -[4843.32 --> 4843.46] We -[4843.46 --> 4843.66] Pray -[4843.66 --> 4844.40] Amen -[4854.66 --> 4856.24] Please -[4856.24 --> 4874.06] Be -[4874.06 --> 4875.42] To -[4875.42 --> 4877.42] To -[4877.42 --> 4877.84] Open -[4877.84 --> 4878.00] In -[4878.00 --> 4878.48] The -[4878.48 --> 4879.16] Arms -[4879.16 --> 4879.52] Of -[4879.52 --> 4879.84] My -[4879.84 --> 4880.34] Heart -[4880.34 --> 4881.22] Lord -[4881.22 --> 4887.20] Open the eyes of my heart -[4887.20 --> 4891.52] I want to see you -[4891.52 --> 4897.96] I want to see you -[4897.96 --> 4906.74] Open the eyes of my heart, Lord -[4906.74 --> 4912.00] Open the eyes of my heart -[4912.00 --> 4916.16] I want to see you -[4916.16 --> 4922.76] I want to see you -[4922.76 --> 4930.40] To see you high and lifted up -[4930.40 --> 4936.60] Shining in the light of your glory -[4936.60 --> 4942.70] Pour out your power and love -[4942.70 --> 4948.86] As we sing holy, holy, holy -[4948.86 --> 4958.60] Open the eyes of my heart, Lord -[4958.60 --> 4963.86] Open the eyes of my heart -[4963.86 --> 4968.70] I want to see you -[4968.70 --> 4974.70] I want to see you -[4974.70 --> 4982.96] Open the eyes of my heart, Lord -[4982.96 --> 4988.96] Open the eyes of my heart -[4988.96 --> 4992.80] I want to see you -[4992.80 --> 5000.06] I want to see you -[5000.06 --> 5002.06] I want to see you -[5002.06 --> 5007.06] To see you high and lifted up -[5007.06 --> 5013.16] Shining in the light of your glory -[5013.16 --> 5015.32] I want to see you -[5015.32 --> 5016.32] I want to see you -[5016.32 --> 5017.32] I want to see you -[5017.32 --> 5019.32] I want to see you -[5019.32 --> 5021.32] I want to see you -[5021.32 --> 5034.66] I want to see you -[5034.66 --> 5035.56] I want to see you -[5035.56 --> 5035.58] I want to see you -[5035.58 --> 5038.78] In the light of your glory -[5038.78 --> 5044.68] Pour out your power and love -[5044.68 --> 5050.92] As we sing holy, holy, holy -[5050.92 --> 5060.58] Holy, holy, holy -[5060.58 --> 5066.58] Holy, holy, holy -[5066.58 --> 5072.64] Holy, holy, holy -[5072.64 --> 5075.58] I want to sing -[5075.58 --> 5085.58] Holy, holy, holy -[5085.58 --> 5091.58] Holy, holy, holy -[5091.58 --> 5097.58] Holy, holy, holy -[5097.58 --> 5100.58] I want to sing -[5100.58 --> 5102.58] To see you -[5102.58 --> 5104.58] To see you -[5104.58 --> 5106.58] I live -[5106.58 --> 5108.58] I live -[5108.58 --> 5112.58] I live -[5112.58 --> 5129.58] To see you -[5129.58 --> 5132.58] I live -[5132.58 --> 5134.58] Lifted up -[5134.58 --> 5140.58] Shining in the light of your glory -[5140.58 --> 5146.58] Pour out your power and love -[5146.58 --> 5152.58] As we sing holy, holy, holy -[5152.58 --> 5154.58] To see you -[5154.58 --> 5156.58] I live -[5156.58 --> 5159.78] and lift it up -[5159.78 --> 5165.94] shining in the light of the glory -[5165.94 --> 5172.06] pour out your power and love -[5172.06 --> 5178.56] as we sing holy, holy, holy -[5178.56 --> 5185.50] as we sing holy, holy, holy -[5185.50 --> 5193.30] as we sing holy, holy, holy -[5193.30 --> 5213.26] I want to give you guys a blessing -[5213.26 --> 5218.60] from Romans 15 verse 13 -[5218.60 --> 5225.56] and it says I pray that God the source of hope -[5225.56 --> 5228.84] will fill you completely with joy and peace -[5228.84 --> 5230.70] because you trust in him -[5230.70 --> 5233.88] then you will overflow with confident hope -[5233.88 --> 5235.84] through the power of the Holy Spirit -[5235.84 --> 5249.84] well -[5249.84 --> 5253.86] it was a lot of fun being here with you guys -[5253.86 --> 5256.62] thank you again for having us -[5256.62 --> 5258.24] it was wonderful -[5258.24 --> 5262.16] I enjoyed hearing everyone sing so beautifully -[5262.16 --> 5264.38] because you sing so good -[5264.38 --> 5267.74] should we sing one more song together? -[5268.74 --> 5269.76] sounds good -[5269.76 --> 5274.50] so for the church members here -[5274.50 --> 5278.10] that may not know of the chaos that happened -[5278.10 --> 5279.46] over this past weekend -[5279.46 --> 5282.34] we're going to share a little bit of that chaos with you -[5282.34 --> 5284.86] it's a beautiful chaos though -[5284.86 --> 5287.58] so these kids know this part -[5287.58 --> 5289.84] and they will teach you the next part -[5289.84 --> 5293.40] so we'll do this kind of collectively -[5293.40 --> 5297.92] I think the kids know where this is going -[5297.92 --> 5302.68] so let's give them a taste of how loud you sang -[5302.68 --> 5303.72] this last weekend -[5303.72 --> 5304.86] I know it's still morning -[5304.86 --> 5306.26] I'm still waking up -[5306.26 --> 5310.84] but let's see if we can shake ourselves out of this a little bit -[5310.84 --> 5312.90] so shall we sing this part again together? -[5312.90 --> 5337.56] let's sing it one more time -[5337.56 --> 5340.10] just to make sure everyone knows those O's -[5340.10 --> 5364.06] beautiful -[5364.06 --> 5366.28] so much -[5366.28 --> 5367.64] so beautiful -[5367.64 --> 5369.66] Matthew -[5369.66 --> 5371.50] guitar working? -[5372.54 --> 5374.04] because you can't do it without you -[5374.04 --> 5375.52] oh, you need you -[5375.52 --> 5380.60] guitar playing in the same way -[5381.40 --> 5381.90] I feel like you can bring that heast -[5381.90 --> 5383.34] so beautiful -[5383.34 --> 5385.56] so you can shake even your throat -[5385.56 --> 5388.30] and if you can shake myself -[5388.30 --> 5389.52] along the same thing -[5389.52 --> 5390.96] hopefully you can catch him -[5390.96 --> 5391.06] and let me on down -[5391.06 --> 5391.48] before we start -[5391.48 --> 5391.94] you can use them -[5391.94 --> 5393.54] as if you can shop -[5393.80 --> 5394.90] and charge yourself -[5395.04 --> 5395.90] and Norway -[5395.90 --> 5396.44] if you can become -[5396.44 --> 5397.32] I feel like you -[5397.32 --> 5397.80] that's enough -[5397.80 --> 5398.30] great -[5398.30 --> 5398.88] for you -[5398.88 --> 5400.52] and if you can -[5400.52 --> 5401.22] you can get -[5401.32 --> 5402.24] cut -[5402.24 --> 5403.56] over -[5403.56 --> 5415.76] No found grace sought us here -[5415.76 --> 5421.42] What can we bring to you who drives us near -[5421.42 --> 5425.38] Blessings or songs from our hearts -[5425.38 --> 5430.40] Songs resounding grace that tore our shame apart -[5430.40 --> 5435.44] Let us all praise the Lord -[5435.44 --> 5439.54] He is Lord -[5439.54 --> 5440.06] Everybody -[5440.06 --> 5440.98] Oh -[5440.98 --> 5443.06] Oh -[5443.06 --> 5445.74] Oh -[5445.74 --> 5447.74] Oh -[5447.74 --> 5449.74] Oh -[5449.74 --> 5450.74] Oh -[5450.74 --> 5451.74] Oh -[5451.74 --> 5453.74] Oh -[5453.74 --> 5458.74] Blessings -[5458.74 --> 5472.62] Such love you have showed -[5472.62 --> 5477.84] This is the greatest love the world has ever known -[5477.84 --> 5481.84] This melody we lend to you -[5481.84 --> 5487.16] A song of adoration declaring repentance -[5487.16 --> 5492.36] Let us all praise the Lord -[5492.36 --> 5495.72] He is Lord -[5495.72 --> 5497.72] Oh -[5497.72 --> 5499.72] Oh -[5499.72 --> 5502.72] Oh -[5502.72 --> 5504.72] Oh -[5504.72 --> 5505.72] Oh -[5505.72 --> 5507.72] Oh -[5507.72 --> 5513.18] Oh -[5513.18 --> 5515.26] Oh -[5515.26 --> 5516.12] What -[5516.12 --> 5518.04] Brace waves down -[5518.04 --> 5519.18] These luck surrounding -[5519.18 --> 5523.12] Your peace Please tell me -[5523.12 --> 5530.48] Jesus My anything -[5530.48 --> 5532.48] May -[5554.48 --> 5558.48] Though some scars may remain -[5558.48 --> 5560.48] Through sorrow and sadness -[5560.48 --> 5563.48] Your love remains the same -[5563.48 --> 5571.48] You are who we long for -[5575.48 --> 5577.48] We call that a false ending -[5579.48 --> 5582.48] And it just prolongs for a long time -[5583.48 --> 5586.48] And you wonder, is that how the song ends? -[5586.48 --> 5588.48] No, it doesn't -[5589.48 --> 5592.48] We claim to be across the foundation -[5592.48 --> 5594.48] Assured -[5594.48 --> 5598.48] And the song is great as the Lord -[5598.48 --> 5602.48] He is Lord -[5602.48 --> 5604.48] And it's a song -[5604.48 --> 5608.48] Oh -[5608.48 --> 5610.48] Oh -[5610.48 --> 5612.48] Oh -[5612.48 --> 5614.48] Oh -[5614.48 --> 5616.48] Oh -[5617.48 --> 5619.48] Oh -[5619.48 --> 5621.48] Oh -[5621.48 --> 5623.48] Oh -[5623.48 --> 5625.48] Oh -[5625.48 --> 5627.48] Oh -[5627.48 --> 5629.48] Oh -[5629.48 --> 5631.48] Oh -[5631.48 --> 5633.48] Oh -[5633.48 --> 5635.48] Oh -[5636.48 --> 5637.48] Oh -[5637.48 --> 5639.48] Oh -[5639.48 --> 5641.48] Oh -[5641.48 --> 5643.48] Oh -[5643.48 --> 5645.48] Oh -[5645.48 --> 5646.48] Oh -[5646.48 --> 5647.48] Oh -[5647.48 --> 5648.48] Oh -[5648.48 --> 5649.48] Oh -[5649.48 --> 5650.48] Oh -[5650.48 --> 5651.48] Oh -[5651.48 --> 5653.48] Oh -[5653.48 --> 5654.48] Oh -[5654.48 --> 5655.48] Oh -[5655.48 --> 5656.48] Oh -[5656.48 --> 5657.48] Oh -[5657.48 --> 5658.48] Oh -[5658.48 --> 5659.48] Amen. Amen. Amen. -[5659.48 --> 5666.48] Please just have a quick seat. A couple quick housekeeping things before we go enjoy fellowship in the foy -[5666.48 --> 5667.02] in the four diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 11, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 11, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 800f0dfb6e73b6d396228a08a750c565fdba7a22..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 11, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,118 +0,0 @@ -• Discussion about a song, specifically "Revelation Song", with plans to shorten it -• Reference to the song "Holy, Holy, Holy" -• Introduction and welcome by pastor Chris -• Mention of a special event called "reactivate" being hosted at another location, which affected attendance -• Acknowledgment of volunteers who helped make the event successful -• Children's Worship Time returns to normal schedule on October 1st -• Sign-ups needed for volunteers and teachers in Children's Worship Time -• Choir practice begins tomorrow in the multi-purpose room at 6:45am -• Council meeting will take place on Tuesday night at 7:30pm -• Opportunity for visitors to connect with the church through cards or QR code -• Invitation to stand, greet neighbors, and welcome them into worship -• Opening prayer and introduction to worship -• Praise to the king of kings -• Jesus' name is power and living water -• The lord god almighty is holy -• All creation sings praise to the king of kings -• God's glory is beyond human understanding -• There is none beside God, perfect in power and love -• God is holy, holy, holy -• The blessed trinity is praised and adored -• Prayers from Psalm 69 -• Jesus' call to come to the altar and find forgiveness -• Salvation through the precious blood of Jesus Christ -• Praise and worship of God, singing hallelujah -• Assurance of salvation through Hebrews 10 -• Encouragement to hold unswervingly to hope and spur one another on towards love and good deeds -• Reflection on Calvary and Jesus' sacrifice for sinners -• Song about praising the Lord -• Commission for budget and global mission work -• Update on missionaries Jody and Yurel Gonzalez -• Updates on local ministry, including recovery home El Faro -• Testimonies of success in ministry, specifically with individual named El Milo -• Announcements of upcoming collections and thank yous to donors -• Discussion of a child's school experience -• Church service and prayer -• Congregational prayers for various groups and individuals -• Prayer for students returning to school -• Prayers for missionaries and church members abroad -• Prayer for world events, including the pandemic and war in Ukraine -• Reading from Matthew 18:15-20 -• Discussion of a ministry town hall meeting -• Discussion of a ministry position and plan from the council -• Hearing stories from young adults in the church community and asking them why they attend -• Expanding on the question "Why are you here?" for the entire congregation -• Exploring the reasons behind gathering at Emmanuel Church, including the present moment and new ministry year -• Importance of posture and intentionality when asking questions like "What's the point?" -• Reading from Matthew 18:15-20 and exploring its relevance to the church community -• The four reasons for gathering discussed in the transcript are accountability, discipline, sacralizing, and presence -• Jesus redefines family in Matthew 12:48-50, stating that brothers and sisters are those who do God's will, not just biological relatives -• As adopted children of God through Jesus Christ, Christians have a new spiritual reality as part of the household or family of God -• The speaker discusses adoption as gospel, explaining that it means being chosen by God before creation to be holy and blameless -• Gathering together is necessary for accountability, as individuals need help remembering their identity in Christ and holding each other accountable for living out that identity -• No one is more skilled at justifying sin than oneself, making external accountability crucial for personal growth and spiritual development -• The importance of accountability and calling out sin within community -• The need for scripture to back up accusations of sin -• The process of checking one's own heart and actions before holding others accountable -• Church discipline as a means of restoration, rather than punishment -• The proper way to handle refusal to listen or change after being confronted with sin -• Decline of church attendance in Canada, with only 11% attending as of 2019 -• Growth of traditional Roman Catholicism and Greek Orthodox Church in North America -• Increase in young men joining these growing religious communities -• Importance of high demands and expectations within a faith community for attracting new members -• Historical precedent: early Christian church growth despite being part of a sex-saturated culture -• Nominations and selection process for spiritual authority -• Responsibilities of elders to encourage and ensure holiness -• Discipline and accountability within the community -• Repentance, restoration, and seeking forgiveness in response to discipline -• Importance of treating those who refuse to listen with love and compassion -• Jesus' example of eating with tax collectors and sinners as a model for treatment of those receiving discipline -• Jesus treats individuals as disciples after repentance -• Removal of fellowship with Jesus doesn't mean complete separation, but rather withholding of disciple identity and opportunities until repentance happens -• Discipline is a sign of love and a necessary part of spiritual growth, not just hard to speak words -• The author of the letter to the Hebrews emphasizes that God disciplines those he treats as sons -• Sacralizing means imbuing ordinary things with deep and spiritual meaning, demonstrated by Jesus in the Lord's Supper -• The spiritual presence of Jesus is experienced through ordinary elements -• Ordinary means of preaching can be transformed into extraordinary encounters with God -• Worship involves singing, praising, and encouraging one another in God's presence -• Our worship participates in the heavenly realm, where creation gives glory to God -• The image of the church as a bride being prepared for Jesus is described in Revelation and the New Testament -• The church is considered holy and set apart for God's purpose -• The purpose of gathering as a church is to hear the truth proclaimed about Jesus Christ and how he lived, died, and was raised from the dead. -• Through this proclamation, believers receive an identity that will last forever as sons and co-heirs with Christ. -• Gathering in church equips individuals to cast off the bonds of sin and run the race marked out for them with perseverance. -• The holy church's focus on Jesus makes even mundane actions sacred and worshipful in God's glory. -• The fourth reason for gathering, according to Jesus, is that when two or three gather in his name, he is present with them and their requests will be granted by the Father in heaven. -• The purpose of prayer in Jesus' name -• Jesus' presence with us, both past and present -• Seeing Jesus in others and receiving spiritual food through gathered worship -• The importance of gathering together for accountability, discipline, and to be made holy -• Receiving spiritual nourishment and faith in Jesus through communal worship -• The Lord's Supper is a time of remembrance for Jesus' sacrifice -• Liturgy is the word used in church, and it can come from ancient sources like the Didache -• The Didache is an ancient Greek document that dates back to the first century of the church -• Practices mentioned in the Didache are still observed today -• The Lord's Supper is a time of thanksgiving for grace and joy received through Jesus -• Intro to the liturgy and invitation to participate -• Prayer of thanksgiving for the holy vine of Christ and the church gathered from all nations -• Thanksgiving for life, knowledge, and everlasting life revealed through Jesus -• Acknowledgment of God's creation and provision for all people -• Gratitude for spiritual food and drink received through Jesus -• Expression of thanks to God for His power and mightiness -• Introduction to a gathering or service -• Instructions for elders on serving the gathering -• Invitation to worship leaders and elders to serve first -• Singing hymns, specifically "My Hope is Built" and other songs -• Expressions of gratitude ("Thank you") -• Biblical references and lyrics to Christ's love and righteousness -• The speaker describes their faith in God and Jesus Christ, emphasizing the idea that they are under the care of a high priest who pleads on their behalf. -• The speaker references the idea that Jesus died for their sins and that through his blood, their soul is purchased and their life is hidden with Christ. -• The speaker reflects on the story of Jesus' birth and resurrection, praising God's glory and majesty. -• The speaker expresses gratitude for salvation through Jesus' death and resurrection. -• The speaker references an ancient liturgy from the Didache and prays for the church to be delivered from evil and perfected in love. -• Prayer for repentance and turning to Jesus -• Invitation to receive a blessing from God -• Blessing of God for the days, week, and ministry/mission ahead -• Invocation of God's presence in various aspects of life (leading, guarding, supporting, befriending) -• Encouragement not to be afraid, but to go in peace and serve the Lord -• Praise and worship of God, with a focus on glorifying His name in all the earth. \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 11, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 11, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 686130b17f368d596ee965f2fe158e145c4b9f39..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 11, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2045 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.00] 세요 -[30.00 --> 39.76] I'm glad you think that they do the culture and that I do. -[39.76 --> 41.10] Oh, so which one do I do? -[43.38 --> 44.78] Henry, come to me last night. -[48.62 --> 51.22] I like the revelation song, which we did at the very beginning. -[60.00 --> 62.08] It's going to be short, right? -[62.20 --> 64.60] So we want something that we can chop pretty short. -[65.94 --> 68.46] Yeah, it's only going to need like two minutes, really. -[79.46 --> 80.28] Revelation song? -[80.76 --> 82.42] Okay, I'll see where we go. -[90.00 --> 91.00] Amen. -[120.00 --> 122.00] Amen. -[150.00 --> 152.00] Amen. -[180.00 --> 182.00] Amen. -[210.00 --> 211.00] Amen. -[240.00 --> 241.00] Amen. -[270.00 --> 270.60] Amen. -[271.34 --> 272.12] Amen. -[272.18 --> 274.36] Amen. -[282.68 --> 283.04] Amen. -[283.04 --> 293.86] Open the eyes of my heart, Lord -[293.86 --> 297.28] Open the eyes of my heart -[297.28 --> 300.38] I want to see you -[300.38 --> 304.48] I want to see you -[304.48 --> 310.22] Open the eyes of my heart, Lord -[310.22 --> 313.48] Open the eyes of my heart -[313.48 --> 317.04] I want to see you -[317.04 --> 321.30] I want to see you -[321.30 --> 326.12] See you highly lifted up -[326.12 --> 329.94] Shining in the light of your glory -[329.94 --> 334.12] Watch your body, love -[334.12 --> 337.90] As we sing holy, holy, holy -[340.22 --> 350.88] Open the eyes of my heart, Lord -[350.88 --> 354.28] Open the eyes of my heart -[354.28 --> 357.48] I want to see you -[357.48 --> 361.04] I want to see you -[361.04 --> 366.96] Open the eyes of my heart, Lord -[366.96 --> 369.38] Open the eyes of my heart, Lord -[369.38 --> 387.58] Open the eyes of my heart, Lord -[387.60 --> 390.94] Power up so far and long -[390.94 --> 395.08] As we sing holy, holy, holy -[395.08 --> 399.16] I lift it up -[399.16 --> 403.96] Shining in the light of your glory -[403.96 --> 407.24] Pour out your power and love -[407.24 --> 411.50] As we sing holy, holy, holy -[411.50 --> 415.94] Holy, holy, holy -[415.94 --> 419.36] Holy, holy, holy -[420.94 --> 424.06] Holy, holy, holy -[424.06 --> 429.10] I want to see you -[429.10 --> 433.18] Holy, holy, holy -[433.18 --> 437.26] Holy, holy, holy -[437.26 --> 440.38] Holy, holy, holy -[440.38 --> 445.34] I want to see you -[445.34 --> 449.42] Open the eyes of my heart, Lord -[449.42 --> 452.04] Open the eyes of my heart -[452.04 --> 454.70] I want to see you -[454.70 --> 459.58] I want to see you -[459.58 --> 461.58] I want to see you -[461.58 --> 464.38] High and lifted up -[464.38 --> 468.54] Shining in the light of your glory -[468.54 --> 472.36] Pour out your power and love -[472.36 --> 475.48] As we sing holy, holy, holy -[475.48 --> 477.48] Holy, holy, holy -[477.48 --> 480.52] High and lifted up -[480.52 --> 484.64] Oh, shining in the light of your glory -[484.64 --> 488.64] Pour out your power and love -[488.64 --> 492.60] As we sing holy, holy, holy -[492.60 --> 496.64] Holy, holy, holy -[496.64 --> 497.64] Holy, holy, holy, holy -[497.64 --> 498.80] Holy, holy, holy -[498.80 --> 499.40] Holy, holy, holy -[499.40 --> 500.68] Holy, holy, holy -[500.68 --> 504.14] Holy, holy, holy -[504.80 --> 505.34] Holy, holy, holy -[505.34 --> 506.74] Holy, holy, holy -[506.74 --> 508.82] I want to see you -[508.88 --> 513.12] Holy, holy, holy -[513.18 --> 515.54] Holy, holy, holy -[515.54 --> 515.90] Holy, holy, holy -[515.90 --> 517.30] Holy, holy, holy -[517.30 --> 519.40] Holy, holy, holy -[519.40 --> 519.70] Holy, holy, holy -[519.70 --> 521.22] Holy, holy, holy -[521.22 --> 525.92] I won't see you -[525.92 --> 529.30] We say, holy, holy, holy -[529.30 --> 533.38] Holy, holy, holy -[533.38 --> 537.44] Holy, holy, holy -[537.44 --> 539.92] I won't see you -[539.92 --> 543.92] I won't see you -[551.22 --> 581.20] I won't see you -[581.20 --> 582.24] Everyone got really quiet, eh? -[586.70 --> 589.08] Good morning. How we doing? -[590.64 --> 597.04] I want to welcome you to church this morning. A special welcome if you are visiting here with us. -[597.44 --> 605.34] My name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors here and it's my privilege, along with these others, to lead us in worship this morning. -[605.34 --> 609.70] As you can see, later in our service, we're going to celebrate Lord's Supper together. -[609.70 --> 618.80] And so you can already now begin preparing your heart and soul to receive this meal from Jesus as we worship together. -[618.80 --> 624.92] You may look around and realize that our average age is slightly higher than normal. -[624.92 --> 631.92] And that's because this weekend was reactivate or is reactivate being hosted at Willoughby on the other side of town. -[631.92 --> 637.34] So a bunch of our teenagers and youth leaders are over there this morning. -[637.42 --> 638.46] They've had an excellent weekend. -[639.46 --> 650.26] And Kevin will do this next week, but I just want to do it now and say thank you to all of you who volunteered and who made that happen and who came together to make that event the success that it was. -[650.26 --> 659.86] And it is great to see that I had the opportunity to be there yesterday morning and to teach a learned event and to see some faces from here helping and volunteering. -[660.04 --> 664.62] And then I went again last night with my daughter to worship and to see some more faces there. -[664.84 --> 667.90] It was a great pleasure for us to all be part of that. -[669.10 --> 672.88] There are a couple of announcements we want to also share with you this morning. -[672.88 --> 685.78] The first is that Children's Worship Time, which is our worship ministry for kids running from preschool all the way to grade four, returns to its normal schedule. -[685.98 --> 689.88] So that includes the grade ones through grade fours on October 1st. -[690.82 --> 695.58] And so for the rest of September, we have the condensed schedule. -[695.58 --> 701.66] And so there are clipboards at the back for the younger kids among us who want to participate in worship that way. -[701.66 --> 707.98] But to return on October 1st and to do that well, we need people to sign up to teach and to volunteer there. -[708.08 --> 709.56] And so there's a sign-up sheet at the back. -[710.20 --> 711.94] Amy can answer any questions you have. -[712.02 --> 713.06] Amy, just raise your hand real quick. -[713.12 --> 713.46] There you go. -[713.54 --> 714.00] That's Amy. -[714.20 --> 715.04] She'll help you. -[715.56 --> 720.78] If she's not at that table afterwards, the sign-up sheet is there and you can sign up at the back. -[721.88 --> 729.08] Also wanted to let you know that choir practice begins tomorrow here at church. -[729.24 --> 730.54] It will be in the multi-purpose room. -[730.54 --> 732.60] You can be here at 645. -[733.16 --> 736.42] And if you have questions, you can talk to Mark DeGeis about that. -[737.56 --> 742.84] And then also on Tuesday night at 730, Council of this church. -[742.92 --> 744.46] It's our governing board. -[744.72 --> 747.12] They're going to have a meeting as well. -[747.24 --> 751.86] And so you can pray for that this week in your prayers also. -[754.42 --> 754.84] There. -[754.96 --> 755.38] We have one more. -[755.68 --> 757.88] If you were visiting with us, we would love to connect with you. -[758.18 --> 759.04] We would love to hear from you. -[759.04 --> 760.58] These cards are available at the back. -[760.68 --> 762.50] There's also a QR code that you can scan. -[763.20 --> 767.68] It gives us the opportunity to connect with you and pray with you and hear what you might -[767.68 --> 771.46] need from us or how we can be together intentionally. -[773.06 --> 774.38] I think that's all I have. -[774.38 --> 775.68] So I'm going to ask you to stand. -[776.72 --> 779.54] And we are going to be welcomed into worship. -[779.72 --> 781.00] We're going to be greeted by God. -[781.08 --> 785.36] But before we do that, I want to give you a chance just to those people around you to -[785.36 --> 786.92] greet them and to welcome them. -[787.36 --> 788.06] And now be mindful. -[788.22 --> 789.80] Maybe not everyone wants to shake hands. -[789.88 --> 791.04] And so maybe they want to fist bump. -[791.08 --> 792.34] Or maybe they don't want to hug. -[792.40 --> 794.78] And so you can nod your head politely to them. -[795.12 --> 796.48] But just turn to your neighbors. -[796.74 --> 797.66] Welcome them to worship. -[797.86 --> 799.46] Greet them in the name of Jesus. -[799.46 --> 805.12] Or even if you want to do the really old liturgical practice, say the peace of Christ be with you. -[806.92 --> 807.58] Like this. -[808.02 --> 809.34] Peace of Christ be with you. -[810.42 --> 811.76] Peace of Christ be with you. -[812.82 --> 813.74] Peace of Christ be with you. -[813.74 --> 814.34] Peace of Christ be with you. -[829.46 --> 830.98] All right. -[831.20 --> 837.66] As we gather together, we do so as the family of God to worship him. -[837.80 --> 841.50] And God welcomes us into this place. -[841.68 --> 843.00] Into his presence. -[843.22 --> 847.64] And so with hearts open, receive the greeting of God. -[848.62 --> 852.02] Grace, mercy, and peace to you. -[852.02 --> 854.52] From God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ. -[854.88 --> 857.46] Through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[858.60 --> 858.96] Amen. -[859.46 --> 860.34] Let's worship God. -[864.60 --> 868.52] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty. -[869.38 --> 872.82] Who was and is and is to come. -[873.94 --> 879.66] You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power. -[879.66 --> 882.88] For you created all things. -[883.72 --> 887.62] And by your will, they were created and have their being. -[887.62 --> 891.46] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain. -[891.46 --> 900.10] To receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise. -[900.10 --> 904.98] To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb. -[904.98 --> 911.46] Be praise and honor and glory and power forever and ever. -[911.46 --> 926.30] Amen. -[926.30 --> 933.42] slay holy holy is he -[936.14 --> 946.22] sing a new song to him who sits on heaven's mercy see -[946.22 --> 961.34] worthy is the lamb who was slain holy holy is he -[961.34 --> 976.22] sing a new song to him who sits on heaven's mercy see -[981.02 --> 990.94] holy holy holy is the lord god almighty who was and is and is -[990.94 --> 995.58] to come -[995.58 --> 1018.94] with all creation i sing praise to the king of kings you are my everything and i will adore you -[1021.50 --> 1035.42] julius -[1035.42 --> 1036.14] thunder -[1036.14 --> 1041.34] blessing and honor -[1041.34 --> 1042.78] strength and -[1042.78 --> 1045.10] glory and power -[1045.10 --> 1045.68] be -[1045.68 --> 1048.86] to you the only -[1048.86 --> 1051.42] wise king -[1051.42 --> 1055.52] holy -[1055.52 --> 1057.34] holy holy -[1057.34 --> 1059.18] is the lord -[1059.18 --> 1060.72] god almighty -[1060.72 --> 1063.68] who was and is -[1063.68 --> 1065.40] and is to come -[1065.40 --> 1071.16] with all creation -[1071.16 --> 1073.52] I sing praise to -[1073.52 --> 1075.60] the king of kings -[1075.60 --> 1077.28] you are -[1077.28 --> 1078.20] my everything -[1078.20 --> 1080.60] and I will -[1080.60 --> 1082.60] adore you -[1082.60 --> 1084.60] you -[1095.40 --> 1100.16] filled with wonder -[1100.16 --> 1104.02] awe-struck wonder -[1104.02 --> 1107.32] at the mention -[1107.32 --> 1109.60] of your name -[1109.60 --> 1114.36] Jesus your name -[1114.36 --> 1115.36] your name is power -[1115.36 --> 1119.36] breath and living water -[1119.36 --> 1121.98] such a marvelous -[1121.98 --> 1123.72] mystery -[1123.72 --> 1130.36] holy holy holy -[1130.36 --> 1132.12] is the lord god -[1132.12 --> 1133.60] is the lord god almighty -[1133.60 --> 1138.48] who was and is and is to come -[1138.48 --> 1144.78] with all creation I sing -[1144.78 --> 1148.24] praise to the king of kings -[1148.24 --> 1153.00] you are my everything -[1153.00 --> 1155.00] and I will adore you -[1155.00 --> 1158.44] holy holy holy holy -[1158.44 --> 1161.44] is the lord god almighty -[1161.44 --> 1166.00] who was and is and is to come -[1166.00 --> 1171.76] with all creation -[1171.76 --> 1173.54] with all creation I sing -[1173.54 --> 1177.00] praise to the king of kings -[1177.00 --> 1179.54] you are my everything -[1179.54 --> 1183.76] and I will adore you -[1183.76 --> 1204.84] Godgano -[1204.84 --> 1233.66] Holy, holy, holy -[1234.84 --> 1241.02] Lord God Almighty -[1241.02 --> 1248.34] Early in the morning -[1248.34 --> 1254.44] Our song shall rise to thee -[1254.44 --> 1262.58] Holy, holy, holy -[1262.58 --> 1270.02] Merciful and mighty -[1270.02 --> 1277.76] God in three persons -[1277.76 --> 1282.40] Blessed Trinity -[1282.40 --> 1291.52] Holy, holy, holy -[1291.52 --> 1299.28] All the saints adore thee -[1299.28 --> 1306.72] Casting down their golden crowns -[1306.72 --> 1312.72] Around the glassy sea -[1312.72 --> 1320.54] Cherubim and seraphim -[1320.54 --> 1327.98] Falling down before thee -[1327.98 --> 1339.98] Who earth and earth and evermore shall be -[1339.98 --> 1349.10] Holy, holy, holy -[1349.10 --> 1355.76] Though the darkness hide thee -[1355.76 --> 1362.36] Though the eye made blind by sin -[1362.36 --> 1367.98] Thy glory may not see -[1367.98 --> 1375.70] Only thou art holy -[1375.70 --> 1383.24] There is none beside thee -[1383.24 --> 1389.26] Perfect in power -[1389.26 --> 1394.64] In love and purity -[1394.64 --> 1424.62] I bow before thee -[1424.62 --> 1425.62] For thee -[1425.62 --> 1432.34] King of glory -[1432.34 --> 1434.34] Holy, holy, holy -[1434.34 --> 1436.84] Holy, holy are you, Lord -[1436.84 --> 1440.34] None beside thee -[1440.34 --> 1447.34] Perfect in power -[1447.34 --> 1448.34] My God forever -[1448.34 --> 1454.34] My God forever -[1454.34 --> 1464.34] You are and are and you will be -[1464.34 --> 1465.34] I bow before thee -[1465.34 --> 1466.34] King of glory -[1466.34 --> 1471.34] King of glory -[1471.34 --> 1472.34] King of glory -[1472.34 --> 1474.34] King of glory -[1474.34 --> 1475.34] King of glory -[1475.34 --> 1476.34] King of glory -[1476.34 --> 1477.34] Holy are you, Lord -[1477.34 --> 1478.34] King of glory -[1478.34 --> 1479.34] Lord, holy are you, Lord -[1479.34 --> 1480.34] None beside thee -[1480.34 --> 1481.34] None beside thee -[1481.34 --> 1482.34] Perfect in power -[1482.34 --> 1488.34] Perfect in power -[1488.34 --> 1489.34] Lord, holy, holy, holy -[1489.34 --> 1495.34] My God forever -[1495.34 --> 1496.34] You were and are and you will be -[1496.34 --> 1505.34] You were and are and you will be -[1505.34 --> 1515.34] Holy, holy, holy, holy -[1515.34 --> 1516.34] Lord, holy, holy -[1516.34 --> 1522.34] Lord, God almighty -[1522.34 --> 1525.34] All thy works shall praise thy name in earth and sky and sea -[1525.34 --> 1538.34] All thy works shall praise thy name in earth and sky and sea -[1538.34 --> 1540.34] Holy, holy, holy, holy -[1540.34 --> 1545.34] Holy, holy, holy -[1545.34 --> 1551.34] Merciful and mighty -[1551.34 --> 1559.34] God in three persons -[1559.34 --> 1561.34] Blessed trinity -[1561.34 --> 1564.34] Blessed trinity -[1564.34 --> 1569.34] I stand before thee -[1569.34 --> 1574.34] King of glory -[1574.34 --> 1578.34] Holy are you, Lord -[1578.34 --> 1583.34] None beside thee -[1583.34 --> 1584.34] Lord, holy, holy -[1584.34 --> 1585.34] My God forever -[1585.34 --> 1587.34] My God forever -[1587.34 --> 1588.34] My God forever -[1588.34 --> 1593.34] My God forever -[1593.34 --> 1605.34] You were and are and you will be -[1605.34 --> 1610.34] I stand before thee -[1610.34 --> 1623.66] King of glory, holy are you, Lord, none beside thee. -[1623.66 --> 1645.26] Perfect in power, my God forever, you were and are and you will be. -[1645.26 --> 1658.78] You were and are and you will be. -[1675.26 --> 1679.80] Please pray with me with the words from Psalm 69. -[1681.64 --> 1685.96] Save me, O God, for the waters have come up to my neck. -[1686.62 --> 1689.98] I sink in the miry depths where there is no foothold. -[1690.70 --> 1694.40] I have come into the deep waters, the floods engulf me. -[1695.18 --> 1697.38] I am worn out, calling for help. -[1698.06 --> 1699.42] My throat is parched. -[1700.06 --> 1702.50] My eyes fail, looking for my God. -[1702.50 --> 1705.16] You, God, know my folly. -[1705.90 --> 1707.82] My guilt is not hidden from you. -[1709.04 --> 1714.82] Lord, the Lord Almighty, may those who hope in you not be disgraced because of me. -[1715.54 --> 1720.76] God of Israel, may those who seek you not be put to shame because of me. -[1721.70 --> 1727.48] But I pray to you, Lord, in the time of your favor, in your great love, O God, -[1728.38 --> 1730.66] answer me with your sure salvation. -[1730.66 --> 1732.08] Amen. -[1732.50 --> 1736.32] Amen. -[1736.32 --> 1757.20] Unmoving and broken within -[1757.20 --> 1762.00] Overwhelmed by the weight of your sin -[1762.00 --> 1764.62] Jesus is calling -[1764.62 --> 1771.68] Have you come to the end of yourself? -[1772.44 --> 1776.28] Do you thirst for a drink from the well? -[1776.72 --> 1778.88] Jesus is calling -[1778.88 --> 1786.98] O come to the altar -[1786.98 --> 1791.54] The Father's arms are open -[1791.54 --> 1796.76] Why forgiveness was bought with -[1796.76 --> 1803.24] The precious blood of Jesus Christ -[1803.24 --> 1815.24] Leave behind your regrets and mistakes -[1815.24 --> 1820.22] Come today, there's no reason to wait -[1820.22 --> 1822.68] Jesus is calling -[1822.68 --> 1829.74] Bring your sorrows and trade them for joy -[1829.74 --> 1834.02] From the ashes a new life is born -[1834.02 --> 1836.54] Jesus is calling -[1836.54 --> 1842.60] Oh come to the altar -[1842.60 --> 1847.90] The Father's arms are open wide -[1847.90 --> 1852.40] Forgiveness was bought with -[1852.40 --> 1857.06] The precious blood of Jesus Christ -[1857.06 --> 1861.28] Oh come to the altar -[1861.28 --> 1866.16] The Father's arms are open wide -[1866.16 --> 1870.66] Forgiveness was bought with -[1870.66 --> 1876.06] The precious blood of Jesus Christ -[1876.06 --> 1889.60] Oh what a Savior -[1889.60 --> 1895.20] Isn't he wonderful -[1895.20 --> 1898.64] Sing hallelujah -[1898.64 --> 1901.70] Christ is risen -[1901.70 --> 1909.20] Bow down before him -[1909.20 --> 1913.66] For he is Lord of all -[1913.66 --> 1916.48] Sing hallelujah -[1916.48 --> 1919.70] Christ is risen -[1919.70 --> 1925.36] Oh what a Savior -[1925.36 --> 1925.42] Oh what a Savior -[1925.42 --> 1926.92] Isn't he wonderful -[1926.92 --> 1927.92] Oh what a Savior -[1927.92 --> 1930.92] Isn't he wonderful -[1930.92 --> 1933.92] Sing hallelujah -[1933.92 --> 1937.92] Christ is risen -[1937.92 --> 1951.92] Oh come to the altar -[1951.92 --> 1967.90] The Father's arms are open wide -[1967.90 --> 1973.90] Forgiveness was bought with -[1973.90 --> 1978.54] The precious blood of Jesus Christ -[1978.54 --> 1982.46] Oh come to the altar -[1982.46 --> 1987.78] The Father's arms are open wide -[1987.78 --> 1992.28] Forgiveness was bought with -[1992.28 --> 1997.88] The precious blood of Jesus Christ -[1997.88 --> 2011.88] Bear your cross as you wait for the crown -[2011.88 --> 2017.88] Tell the world of the treasure you found -[2017.88 --> 2032.94] Our words of assurance today come from Hebrews 10 -[2032.94 --> 2036.26] Therefore brothers and sisters -[2036.26 --> 2042.12] Since we have confidence to enter the most holy place by the blood of Jesus -[2042.12 --> 2048.12] By a new and living way opened for us through the curtain that is his body -[2048.12 --> 2053.70] And since we have a great priest over the house of God -[2053.70 --> 2057.84] Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart -[2057.84 --> 2060.84] And with the full assurance that faith brings -[2060.84 --> 2067.32] Having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience -[2067.32 --> 2071.64] And having our bodies washed with pure water -[2071.64 --> 2076.40] Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess -[2076.40 --> 2079.56] For he who promised is faithful -[2079.56 --> 2086.48] And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds -[2086.48 --> 2091.82] Not giving up meeting together as some are in the habit of doing -[2091.82 --> 2094.30] But encouraging one another -[2094.30 --> 2098.12] And all the more as you see the day approaching -[2098.12 --> 2120.52] I cast my mind to Calvary -[2120.52 --> 2128.52] Where Jesus bled and died for me -[2128.52 --> 2136.40] I see his wounds, his hands, his feet -[2136.40 --> 2143.52] My Savior on that cursed tree -[2143.52 --> 2154.70] His body bowed and drenched in tears -[2154.70 --> 2161.52] They laid him down in Joseph's tomb -[2161.52 --> 2168.52] The entrance sealed by heavy stone -[2168.52 --> 2172.52] Messiah still -[2172.52 --> 2176.52] And all alone -[2176.52 --> 2184.56] Oh praise the name -[2184.56 --> 2188.44] Of the Lord our God -[2188.44 --> 2191.52] Oh praise his name -[2191.52 --> 2194.52] Forevermore -[2194.52 --> 2198.52] For endless days -[2198.52 --> 2202.52] We will sing your praise -[2202.52 --> 2204.52] Oh Lord -[2204.52 --> 2208.52] Oh Lord our God -[2208.52 --> 2214.52] Then on the third -[2214.52 --> 2218.52] At break of dawn -[2218.52 --> 2220.52] The Son of Heaven -[2220.52 --> 2224.52] The Son of Heaven -[2224.52 --> 2225.52] Rose again -[2225.52 --> 2226.52] Oh trampled death -[2226.52 --> 2229.52] O trampled death -[2229.52 --> 2234.52] Where is your sting -[2234.52 --> 2236.52] The angels roar -[2236.52 --> 2240.52] For Christ the King -[2240.52 --> 2253.06] O praise the name of the Lord our God -[2253.06 --> 2260.20] O praise His name forevermore -[2260.20 --> 2267.20] For endless days we will sing Your praise -[2267.20 --> 2274.54] O Lord, O Lord our God -[2274.54 --> 2284.88] You shall return in robes of white -[2284.88 --> 2292.48] The blazing sun shall pierce the night -[2292.48 --> 2299.82] And I will rise among the saints -[2299.82 --> 2307.82] My face transfixed on Jesus' face -[2307.82 --> 2315.16] guitar solo -[2315.16 --> 2322.50] O praise the name of the Lord our God -[2322.50 --> 2337.84] O praise the name of the Lord our God -[2337.84 --> 2341.84] O praise His name forevermore -[2341.84 --> 2349.18] For endless days we will sing Your praise -[2349.18 --> 2357.18] O Lord, O Lord our God -[2357.18 --> 2361.18] O praise the name of the Lord our God -[2361.18 --> 2367.52] O Lord, O Lord our God -[2367.52 --> 2374.52] O praise the name of the Lord our God -[2374.52 --> 2381.52] O praise His name forevermore -[2381.52 --> 2387.86] For endless days we will sing Your praise -[2387.86 --> 2393.86] O Lord, O Lord our God -[2393.86 --> 2403.86] O Lord, O Lord our God -[2403.86 --> 2433.84] O Lord our God -[2433.84 --> 2435.84] commission today is for the budget -[2435.84 --> 2438.64] for all the work that's done in our church -[2438.64 --> 2442.56] The second is for commission to every nation -[2442.56 --> 2446.66] It is a servant organization which helps -[2446.66 --> 2450.18] missionaries like Jody and Yurel Gonzalez -[2450.18 --> 2453.82] fulfill the unique vision God has given them -[2453.82 --> 2456.14] through administrative support -[2456.14 --> 2459.14] they provide accountability and help -[2459.16 --> 2461.80] the missionary get to the field -[2462.56 --> 2467.94] Through pastoral care, they help them remain effective and healthy while there. -[2469.52 --> 2471.16] Jody sends a message. -[2472.06 --> 2476.70] This year marks 10 years of ministry in Mexico for me, Jody. -[2477.44 --> 2482.84] So much has happened, so much has changed, but one thing remains the same, -[2482.84 --> 2486.28] and that is God and his faithfulness to us. -[2486.28 --> 2492.68] After a summer of cooking for teams at the Connections house and family visiting, -[2493.20 --> 2497.40] we are now ready to start the fall school routine. -[2498.56 --> 2503.00] Jonathan is being homeschooled one more year and is in grade 3. -[2503.82 --> 2510.56] Anthony is still doing some grade 1 catch-up work, but is well on his way to grade 2. -[2510.56 --> 2520.74] We are praying that the full year of one-on-one with his tutor will get him ready for classroom setting next year. -[2521.40 --> 2528.88] Both boys are bilingual and not afraid to jump in and help translate when needed. -[2529.44 --> 2535.92] We currently have 16 men in our third-phase recovery home, El Faro. -[2535.92 --> 2545.92] This ministry is hard as we watch some of our men go back to drugs and alcohol after being clean for months. -[2546.32 --> 2547.00] It hurts. -[2547.86 --> 2550.92] But then you meet El Milo. -[2551.40 --> 2556.20] He is deported and lost on the streets in Tijuana. -[2556.64 --> 2559.26] His family had no hope for him. -[2559.26 --> 2566.54] El Milo found his way to our home and has worked hard for the past year and a half. -[2567.06 --> 2568.68] He is clean and sober. -[2569.36 --> 2571.22] He's reunited with his family. -[2572.28 --> 2577.24] He's working full-time and has become Uriel's partner in ministry. -[2577.98 --> 2582.06] El Milo's dad stays with us one weekend every month. -[2582.70 --> 2584.92] Can't believe he has his son back. -[2585.38 --> 2587.72] This is why we do what we do. -[2587.72 --> 2592.88] Langley Emanuel family, thank you, capital letters. -[2593.44 --> 2601.56] Your prayers and financial support are very much needed and appreciated as we do the work God has called us to do. -[2602.38 --> 2606.54] Next week's special collection is for Cascade Family Counseling. -[2606.54 --> 2608.54] Thank you. -[2609.26 --> 2610.26] Thank you. -[2610.26 --> 2612.26] Thank you. -[2612.26 --> 2615.98] Thank you. -[2615.98 --> 2617.98] Thank you. -[2617.98 --> 2621.70] Thank you. -[2621.70 --> 2623.70] Thank you. -[2623.70 --> 2627.42] Thank you. -[2627.42 --> 2629.42] Thank you. -[2629.42 --> 2633.14] Thank you. -[2633.14 --> 2635.14] Thank you. -[2635.14 --> 2637.14] Thank you. -[2637.14 --> 2639.14] Thank you. -[2639.14 --> 2646.86] Thank you. -[2646.86 --> 2648.86] Thank you. -[2648.86 --> 2650.86] Thank you. -[2650.86 --> 2652.86] Thank you. -[2652.86 --> 2666.58] Thank you. -[2666.58 --> 2678.30] Thank you. -[2678.30 --> 2684.30] Thank you. -[2684.30 --> 2702.02] Thank you. -[2702.02 --> 2719.74] Thank you. -[2719.74 --> 2737.46] Thank you. -[2737.46 --> 2739.46] Thank you. -[2739.46 --> 2757.18] Thank you. -[2757.18 --> 2759.18] Thank you. -[2759.18 --> 2776.90] Thank you. -[2776.90 --> 2778.90] Thank you. -[2778.90 --> 2796.62] Thank you. -[2796.62 --> 2797.62] All right. -[2797.62 --> 2798.62] All right. -[2798.62 --> 2808.74] We're going to ask the preschool and kindergarten aged kids to come on up or all the kids can come on up and receive the blessing. -[2808.74 --> 2816.62] But those who are aged three to five are going to head out to a worship time down the way. -[2816.62 --> 2817.78] Excellent. -[2817.78 --> 2821.38] Come on up. -[2821.44 --> 2822.12] You want to sit there? -[2822.62 --> 2822.94] Do it. -[2823.06 --> 2823.94] You can ask all the questions. -[2823.94 --> 2828.44] So who went to school this week? -[2830.72 --> 2833.10] One, two, four. -[2834.32 --> 2835.04] Was it fun? -[2835.92 --> 2836.88] Did you love it? -[2837.80 --> 2839.20] Are you excited the weekend came? -[2840.78 --> 2841.22] No. -[2843.66 --> 2844.64] You didn't go to school? -[2844.70 --> 2845.16] I think you did. -[2845.22 --> 2848.36] I'm pretty sure I saw a picture of you actually at school this week. -[2848.46 --> 2849.18] Checking it out. -[2850.24 --> 2850.90] Very cool. -[2850.98 --> 2851.14] Okay. -[2851.14 --> 2856.52] So you guys are going to go to church school and you're going to learn at the back about Jesus. -[2856.68 --> 2858.08] And some of you might stay here. -[2858.40 --> 2861.90] But before you do that, we're going to pray and we're going to say a blessing with you. -[2861.94 --> 2862.38] Is that cool? -[2863.60 --> 2864.06] All right. -[2864.12 --> 2867.04] Let's fold our hands and pray together. -[2868.64 --> 2873.46] Dear Jesus, we pray for the hearts and minds of these little ones here. -[2873.46 --> 2877.88] May they too see you in worship. -[2878.92 --> 2883.20] May they too know your love and know that they are loved. -[2883.94 --> 2889.36] Be with their teachers and leaders and help them to speak the truth of your gospel. -[2890.02 --> 2891.18] In Jesus' name we pray. -[2891.86 --> 2892.16] Amen. -[2892.16 --> 2893.54] All right. -[2893.60 --> 2894.54] I'm going to ask you guys to stand up. -[2895.94 --> 2897.22] And you know how this works, right? -[2897.28 --> 2898.58] We turn around and we face everyone. -[2898.88 --> 2901.84] We hold our hands up and then we're going to say the Lord be with you. -[2901.92 --> 2905.18] And then they're going to respond in the same way. -[2905.26 --> 2905.46] Ready? -[2906.24 --> 2907.92] The Lord be with you. -[2908.64 --> 2909.86] And also with you. -[2910.22 --> 2910.54] Amen. -[2910.54 --> 2910.64] Amen. -[2922.16 --> 2932.26] Good morning. -[2932.78 --> 2933.68] My name is Daryl. -[2933.76 --> 2935.02] I'm one of the elders here at Emanuel. -[2935.78 --> 2937.74] Let's go to God in our church family prayer. -[2941.86 --> 2946.14] Father in heaven, we are thankful to gather here together this morning to worship you. -[2946.82 --> 2949.38] We thank you for a summer with many days of sunshine. -[2949.38 --> 2956.56] As summer ends and fall begins, we look forward to the many ministries starting back up after the summer break. -[2957.02 --> 2963.48] We pray for coffee break, cadets, gems, youth, young adults, seniors, care groups, and other ministries. -[2963.86 --> 2971.10] We pray that leaders and volunteers will feel a clear calling and desire to serve and use the gifts you have given them. -[2972.56 --> 2977.74] Please also be with the elders, deacons, and pastoral care workers as they continue after the summer. -[2977.74 --> 2982.68] We continue to pray for all the students and teachers as they transition back to school. -[2983.36 --> 2987.80] May you bless them in their efforts and help them to continue to grow in their knowledge and faith. -[2988.66 --> 2993.28] Please be with Rika Emmons as she mourns the loss of her mother and bless her time in the Netherlands. -[2994.22 --> 2999.28] Please also continue to be with the Riesbos family and friends as they grieve the loss of Louise. -[3000.02 --> 3003.12] Many others, Lord, continue to grieve lost loved ones. -[3003.12 --> 3005.76] And we pray you surround them with your love and comfort. -[3006.96 --> 3013.00] May you be strengthened with all power according to his glorious might for all endurance and patience with joy. -[3014.24 --> 3019.34] Please be with the youth at the Reactivate event as they wrap up their time together this morning. -[3019.84 --> 3025.06] We pray that it was a blessing to the youth and leaders and that the lessons learned will remain with them. -[3025.06 --> 3028.74] Thank you for the missionaries that are spreading your word throughout the world. -[3029.50 --> 3035.62] We pray for those connected to our church, such as Jody and Ariel in Mexico, Tim and Charity and Sam and Arm, -[3035.88 --> 3039.10] and Jared as he does his discipleship training in Costa Rica. -[3039.54 --> 3040.86] Please continue to bless them. -[3041.76 --> 3046.84] As the world continues to deal with the aftermath and ongoing effects of the pandemic and war in Ukraine, -[3047.58 --> 3049.86] please help us to trust that you are in control. -[3049.86 --> 3054.26] As we hear your word this morning, may you give us ears to hear. -[3054.88 --> 3058.08] Be with Pastor Chris as he delivers your message of hope and love. -[3058.80 --> 3061.38] Let us not only hear, but also be your hands and feet. -[3062.26 --> 3065.06] May your spirit give us power to show your love to one another. -[3065.82 --> 3067.94] We pray all these things in Jesus' glorious name. -[3068.70 --> 3068.92] Amen. -[3068.92 --> 3069.04] Amen. -[3073.64 --> 3074.36] Thanks, Daryl. -[3079.86 --> 3094.34] In just a moment, we're going to read together in the scriptures from Matthew 18. -[3095.22 --> 3097.88] We're going to read at verse 15 through 20. -[3098.08 --> 3102.38] If you have a Bible with you, of course, I encourage you to open that up and to have that. -[3102.38 --> 3107.62] And then even when I finish reading, leave that open on your lap or on the chair beside you, -[3107.62 --> 3112.34] if there's room for that, because we're going to refer back pretty regularly throughout. -[3112.66 --> 3116.40] If you don't have a Bible and would like one, there are a few on the back wall there. -[3116.48 --> 3117.44] You can grab one there. -[3119.42 --> 3121.32] If you go quickly, you can get one. -[3121.92 --> 3124.30] Otherwise, you're going to have to have remembered your own. -[3124.30 --> 3136.78] A few weeks ago, or a week and a half ago, we hosted here a ministry town hall -[3136.78 --> 3143.24] to discuss the young adult ministry among us and the hoped-for plan from council -[3143.24 --> 3146.46] for a ministry position to coordinate that work. -[3146.46 --> 3151.90] As part of that evening, and if I'm honest, what I think was the best part, -[3152.80 --> 3155.44] we heard from a number of young adults. -[3156.34 --> 3158.98] Now, for those of you who are unfamiliar with that phrase, -[3159.10 --> 3166.38] a young adult is somebody sort of post-high school and then sort of in their early to mid-30s. -[3167.26 --> 3170.30] A young adult is pretty easy to start in its definition. -[3170.56 --> 3172.60] It's less easy to figure out when that ends. -[3172.60 --> 3179.94] But we heard stories from people in our church family who are young adults. -[3182.00 --> 3186.92] And as part of that sharing, we ask the question, -[3187.74 --> 3188.84] why are you here? -[3190.40 --> 3191.90] Why do you keep coming here? -[3192.56 --> 3194.10] And why do you stay? -[3195.36 --> 3199.66] Now, this morning, I want to expand on that question for us -[3199.66 --> 3202.10] and to do that for all of us, right? -[3202.10 --> 3203.78] Why are you here? -[3204.92 --> 3210.26] Both here in the sense of Emmanuel, right, at this particular church. -[3210.30 --> 3212.40] Why do you call this your church family? -[3212.50 --> 3217.22] But also here in the sense of the immediate present, the right now. -[3217.28 --> 3218.50] Why are you here right now? -[3219.44 --> 3220.28] Why do we gather? -[3220.28 --> 3229.12] As we start together a new ministry and mission year, it's worth asking that question. -[3230.20 --> 3231.40] Why are you here? -[3231.86 --> 3232.86] Why do we gather? -[3233.00 --> 3233.90] What's the point? -[3234.30 --> 3237.32] What is the hoped-for outcome in all of this? -[3237.36 --> 3239.62] What is the goal of all of this together? -[3239.62 --> 3247.04] Now, as we dive into this conversation, I want to be clear because I really believe that when asking this question, -[3247.62 --> 3251.90] posture, right, heart posture matters. -[3251.90 --> 3262.20] And when I was a teenager, on Sundays, I would wake up maybe with enough time to get to church, -[3262.20 --> 3263.52] and I would always whine, -[3263.92 --> 3265.58] why do I have to go to church? -[3265.58 --> 3268.46] I don't get anything out of it anyways. -[3268.92 --> 3269.74] What's the point? -[3271.14 --> 3276.10] Now, as I got a little older, I have learned the impact that us three boys, -[3276.48 --> 3279.60] being that way every Sunday morning, had on my mom in particular. -[3280.04 --> 3284.32] She was trying to get ready for worship, and for that I have apologized and continue to apologize. -[3284.88 --> 3286.88] Mom, you just waved, so we're good. -[3286.88 --> 3295.60] But maybe, whether you're a teenager or you're a parent of teenagers, or even if you're not, -[3295.98 --> 3298.58] maybe that's how you ask the question. -[3299.16 --> 3299.80] What's the point? -[3301.22 --> 3305.34] And like I said, I think it's a worthwhile question, -[3306.02 --> 3308.54] and I really do want you to ask it, right? -[3308.98 --> 3313.08] You've heard me say this before, but no question is off limits here -[3313.08 --> 3316.14] if you're genuinely asking it. -[3317.88 --> 3320.34] Because what I know when I asked that question as a kid, -[3320.48 --> 3321.24] what's the point? -[3321.42 --> 3322.80] I didn't really want an answer. -[3323.16 --> 3326.24] I was using it as a justification for my own apathy. -[3328.34 --> 3330.78] Instead, and here's why I said posture matters, -[3331.80 --> 3334.28] instead, let's really ask the question. -[3335.08 --> 3337.26] Why do we gather? -[3338.56 --> 3342.68] Now, there are all sorts of ways that you can answer this question from the Bible. -[3342.82 --> 3346.78] There are all sorts of places that we could go in the Bible to answer this question. -[3346.88 --> 3351.38] And in particular, if you're part of the worship ministries of this church, -[3351.38 --> 3353.74] you've heard me talk about this a bunch of times. -[3354.98 --> 3358.22] And so this morning, I want to go to a different place. -[3358.98 --> 3364.50] Now, at first blush, this might seem like a strange place to go in asking this question, -[3364.50 --> 3371.26] but I think that there is something particularly important for our particular gathering, -[3371.88 --> 3379.02] especially as we try to do so in this 21st century, increasingly post-Christian world that we find ourselves. -[3379.96 --> 3383.20] And so to do that, we're going to read from Matthew 18. -[3384.20 --> 3387.08] We're going to read verse 15 to 20. -[3387.08 --> 3391.58] Hear the words of Jesus. -[3391.58 --> 3399.74] If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. -[3400.92 --> 3403.54] If they listen to you, you have won them over. -[3404.46 --> 3407.34] But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, -[3407.50 --> 3411.60] so that every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses. -[3411.60 --> 3415.86] If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church. -[3416.18 --> 3421.30] And if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or tax collector. -[3422.94 --> 3427.22] Truly, I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, -[3427.34 --> 3430.52] and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. -[3431.98 --> 3438.22] Again, truly, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, -[3438.22 --> 3441.56] it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. -[3441.56 --> 3448.14] For where two or three gather in my name, there I am with them. -[3449.26 --> 3450.56] This is the word of the Lord. -[3454.64 --> 3458.72] Now, in this text, like I said, these aren't the only reasons, -[3458.98 --> 3460.50] but the ones we're going to focus on today. -[3460.64 --> 3465.40] In this text, I see for us four reasons why we gather. -[3466.26 --> 3467.64] And this will be our outline. -[3468.88 --> 3473.26] And as we go through, don't worry, each one gets progressively shorter in content. -[3475.10 --> 3477.26] First, accountability. -[3478.88 --> 3481.24] The second reason from this text that we're going to see is discipline. -[3482.20 --> 3486.04] The third reason that we're going to see from this text is sacralizing. -[3486.34 --> 3488.84] Now, I know that that's a weird word and probably not one you're familiar with. -[3488.90 --> 3490.58] I will explain what that means when we get there. -[3490.58 --> 3495.06] And then the fourth reason where we will end is presence. -[3495.62 --> 3500.50] So, accountability, discipline, sacralizing, and presence. -[3500.50 --> 3502.54] And so, let's start with accountability. -[3504.26 --> 3506.20] Verse 15 says, -[3507.30 --> 3512.06] If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault. -[3512.06 --> 3516.08] Now, first of all, notice Jesus is addressing. -[3516.32 --> 3516.60] It says, -[3516.72 --> 3519.28] If your brother or sister sins. -[3520.02 --> 3526.68] First, Jesus redefines relationship and changes who your family is. -[3526.68 --> 3531.86] In Matthew 12, if you flip over just a couple pages. -[3532.98 --> 3539.18] In Matthew 12, at verse 48, Jesus says, -[3540.18 --> 3543.44] Who is my mother and who are my brothers? -[3544.16 --> 3545.92] And pointing to his disciples, he said, -[3545.92 --> 3548.10] Here are my mother and my brothers. -[3548.10 --> 3554.60] For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and my sister and my mother. -[3556.70 --> 3562.12] To be a believing disciple of Jesus is to gain a new family. -[3563.56 --> 3569.20] Listen to Paul, the Apostle Paul, in Ephesians 2, verse 19. -[3570.10 --> 3570.60] He says, -[3570.60 --> 3589.38] The word that's originally written in Greek there, the word meaning household, can also be translated family. -[3590.54 --> 3596.44] In fact, some scholars even include in the range of meaning of that word, related by blood. -[3596.44 --> 3603.16] And so for Christians, it is the blood of Jesus that makes us one family. -[3604.86 --> 3613.92] Explaining this new spiritual reality, Paul says just before in chapter 1 of Ephesians, in verse 4 and 5, he says, -[3613.92 --> 3620.36] For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. -[3620.36 --> 3627.74] In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ. -[3629.32 --> 3634.60] We have all been adopted by God through Jesus and to each other. -[3635.58 --> 3637.72] Adoption is the gospel. -[3638.26 --> 3639.90] And let's be really clear about this, right? -[3639.98 --> 3642.82] Not as less than another, right? -[3642.96 --> 3645.88] After the adoption happens, it's over. -[3647.10 --> 3648.84] He's not an adopted son. -[3648.84 --> 3650.30] He is a son. -[3651.96 --> 3654.34] You are not my adopted sister. -[3654.74 --> 3655.70] You are my sister. -[3656.18 --> 3656.80] Full stop. -[3657.98 --> 3667.42] And as brothers and sisters, mothers and father, all of you, all of us, one to the other, we gather together. -[3668.38 --> 3670.06] Families gather. -[3670.06 --> 3673.80] And part of why we gather. -[3674.52 --> 3684.02] Part of why we gather is because I, for one, and I suspect all of you, need help remembering who you are. -[3684.02 --> 3690.32] I forget that I have been predestined in love for adoption to sonship. -[3690.48 --> 3696.78] I forget that before the foundation of the world, I was chosen to be holy and blameless in his sight. -[3697.16 --> 3701.98] And yes, surprising to all of you, except for maybe my wife, I sin. -[3704.48 --> 3705.44] I sin. -[3705.44 --> 3707.80] I am declared holy. -[3707.90 --> 3708.12] Amen. -[3708.94 --> 3710.44] I am born again blameless. -[3711.16 --> 3712.78] Amen and amen. -[3713.12 --> 3717.08] But there are times in my life when it doesn't look like that is true. -[3718.12 --> 3724.80] And I need you, my gathered Jesus family, to point that out and to hold me accountable. -[3730.14 --> 3731.40] We all need that. -[3732.90 --> 3733.14] Right? -[3733.14 --> 3733.72] Right? -[3735.44 --> 3735.84] Right? -[3735.96 --> 3736.78] That's a real question. -[3737.70 --> 3738.30] Okay, thank you. -[3738.66 --> 3739.54] Not the only one. -[3740.60 --> 3740.76] Right? -[3740.78 --> 3744.70] We may not always want it, but we all need it. -[3746.50 --> 3752.88] And part of why we gather in worship, but also perhaps especially why we gather in small groups -[3752.88 --> 3757.90] and in Bible studies and as mentors and mentees in different ministries like Coffee Break, -[3757.90 --> 3764.42] which is primarily young women, but not only young women's ministry that takes place on Tuesday mornings -[3764.42 --> 3769.84] here at church with coffee and Bible study, primarily why the seniors group gathers together. -[3771.10 --> 3771.20] Right? -[3771.28 --> 3778.66] Part of why we gather is because as a family in the household of God, we are called to be -[3778.66 --> 3785.26] holy and blameless, even as we are already by grace through faith made holy and blameless. -[3785.26 --> 3792.62] And for each of us to live that out well and to do so more and more ever increasingly comprehensively -[3792.62 --> 3796.02] in every corner of our lives, we need each other's help. -[3796.76 --> 3798.18] We need accountability. -[3800.10 --> 3802.54] Because, and listen here, right? -[3802.54 --> 3811.26] No one, no one is more winsome to you in justifying your own sin than you are. -[3813.02 --> 3814.12] Follow what I mean there? -[3815.76 --> 3821.02] We are all really, really good at justifying ourself. -[3821.54 --> 3825.64] It's really easy to say, oh, no one's getting hurt. -[3826.72 --> 3827.90] And it's only a little bit. -[3828.76 --> 3830.04] It's only on the weekends. -[3830.04 --> 3832.42] Sometimes, I deserve this. -[3833.94 --> 3834.06] Right? -[3834.14 --> 3836.56] Sometimes we are really good at saying, that's not greed. -[3836.90 --> 3838.28] That's just business savvy. -[3839.84 --> 3841.20] Or that's not pride. -[3841.72 --> 3842.98] I'm just really competent. -[3844.68 --> 3845.16] Right? -[3845.22 --> 3850.60] Whatever it is, and you know how easy it is to justify yourself. -[3850.60 --> 3856.86] And that's why we need someone who is not us to tell us and to point out our blind spots. -[3856.86 --> 3861.16] Because we get blind to these things in our own hearts and to hold us accountable. -[3863.40 --> 3865.70] But, please hear this. -[3866.24 --> 3868.20] Because this is critically important for accountability. -[3869.44 --> 3876.46] If you are going to call out someone's sin, which in case you haven't heard that yet, that's what we're talking about. -[3876.46 --> 3878.12] That's what this text is telling us to do. -[3878.66 --> 3878.88] Right? -[3878.88 --> 3884.36] What is foundational to our purpose for gathering is calling out each other's sin. -[3884.54 --> 3891.26] If you were going to call out the sin of a brother or sister, you better make sure that it's actually a sin. -[3892.18 --> 3892.62] Right? -[3892.64 --> 3894.52] And not something that you would just do differently. -[3895.94 --> 3896.38] Right? -[3896.38 --> 3900.56] Or not something that you would just choose otherwise if it was your choice. -[3902.06 --> 3902.52] So hear me. -[3902.58 --> 3904.18] We have to call sin a sin. -[3904.24 --> 3905.10] And we cannot be afraid. -[3905.22 --> 3907.30] We must call sin and sin. -[3907.58 --> 3914.24] But we must do so being sure that we have scripture to back it up and to prove it. -[3914.24 --> 3919.12] And so before you go holding anyone to account for their sin, check your own heart. -[3919.40 --> 3920.70] And then check the word. -[3920.90 --> 3922.74] And then pray for insight and clarity. -[3923.34 --> 3925.76] And then do it all again. -[3926.22 --> 3927.28] Check your own heart. -[3927.40 --> 3928.44] And check the word. -[3928.58 --> 3930.02] And then check in with the Holy Spirit. -[3930.02 --> 3940.42] And then only then with gentleness and respect and with as much humility as you can muster, ask the hard questions. -[3940.64 --> 3942.88] Or ask the heart questions. -[3944.24 --> 3946.42] Remember the goal. -[3947.94 --> 3951.56] If they listen to you, Jesus says, you have won them over. -[3953.06 --> 3962.52] That is, if you are right and they know that you are right and repent, you have drawn them back to the household of God, to the family. -[3962.84 --> 3974.16] The goal of accountability is to restore them to identity of adoption, to sonship, to being holy and blameless. -[3974.24 --> 3977.96] And maybe this is a truism now, but I think it's also just true. -[3978.28 --> 3983.06] That if we don't gather, we can't practice accountability. -[3984.00 --> 3986.94] And if we're never with each other, you can never say what I need to hear. -[3988.04 --> 3989.46] We need accountability. -[3989.82 --> 3992.28] And so we need to gather. -[3992.28 --> 3996.42] Sometimes accountability has to go a step further. -[3996.66 --> 3999.56] And that's our second reason why we gather. -[4000.40 --> 4000.96] Discipline. -[4000.96 --> 4014.90] Now, I know that discipline is a hard word for many of us, especially when we talk about church discipline. -[4015.00 --> 4023.58] And I'm very aware and have lived through and seen some awful instances of churches abusing power of discipline. -[4023.58 --> 4030.66] And I know that because of that, there is a type of church person who is in the modern era who doesn't like the word discipline. -[4031.02 --> 4040.50] And if I'm really candid with you this morning, there is a generation of, let's be bold and prophetic, -[4040.66 --> 4045.40] there is a generation of boomer Christian leader or liberal Christian or progressive Christian -[4045.40 --> 4048.98] who hides a cheap grace behind the phrase, -[4049.30 --> 4050.12] Who am I to judge? -[4052.00 --> 4052.22] Right? -[4052.28 --> 4053.68] Or who hides behind the phrase, -[4053.78 --> 4055.34] We've all been set free from the law. -[4055.78 --> 4057.86] But listen to the words of Jesus here. -[4061.58 --> 4064.56] But if they will not listen, Jesus says. -[4067.26 --> 4070.08] But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, -[4070.22 --> 4073.62] so that every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses. -[4073.62 --> 4076.92] And if they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church. -[4077.24 --> 4079.42] And if they refuse to listen even to the church, -[4079.56 --> 4082.66] treat them as you would a pagan or tax collector. -[4084.02 --> 4090.74] And so you see, the gospel is indeed about freedom from sin and death. -[4090.88 --> 4092.92] And yes, even freedom from the law. -[4093.24 --> 4097.30] But the gospel is also about freedom to holiness, -[4097.94 --> 4099.74] to a disciplined life, -[4100.12 --> 4102.98] freedom to not going on in sin. -[4102.98 --> 4103.64] Right? -[4103.76 --> 4106.30] Freedom from and freedom to. -[4107.30 --> 4109.70] Now here's an interesting test case in this, right? -[4110.96 --> 4115.34] It is demonstrably true, right, -[4115.40 --> 4118.92] that church-going religious faith, -[4119.12 --> 4121.56] not just Christian, but generally religious faith, -[4121.70 --> 4123.70] is on the decline in Canada. -[4123.70 --> 4126.32] After World War II, -[4127.08 --> 4131.74] more than two-thirds of Canadians attended weekly religious services -[4131.74 --> 4134.78] of whatever variety and type or religion they were part of. -[4134.84 --> 4136.52] More than two-thirds of Canadians. -[4136.66 --> 4139.86] In 1996, that was already down to one-third. -[4141.64 --> 4144.30] And in 2019, the number for which we, -[4144.42 --> 4146.56] the most recent number for which we have actual data on this, -[4146.94 --> 4148.62] that's down to 11%. -[4148.62 --> 4153.04] And now, perhaps after COVID, right, -[4153.08 --> 4154.02] that number is even lower. -[4154.02 --> 4157.70] The trend of decline is pretty steeply downward. -[4158.98 --> 4161.76] And in the CRC, the Christian Reformed Church, -[4162.04 --> 4165.40] we are lagging a little bit behind that general trend, -[4165.56 --> 4166.60] but it is also downwards. -[4166.60 --> 4171.50] But, fascinating to me, -[4171.98 --> 4174.78] there are pockets within our society, -[4175.20 --> 4176.62] pockets of religious communities, -[4177.00 --> 4179.82] that are experiencing growth. -[4180.64 --> 4182.92] And not just immigration growth, -[4183.16 --> 4185.54] because that's a place where religion often tends to grow. -[4186.24 --> 4186.78] For instance, -[4187.72 --> 4192.56] old-school, traditional Roman Catholicism. -[4192.56 --> 4193.12] Right? -[4193.94 --> 4195.32] This is like pre-Vatican II, -[4195.64 --> 4197.34] Latin-only Roman Catholicism, -[4197.38 --> 4199.84] is experiencing growth right now. -[4200.72 --> 4202.82] The Greek Orthodox Church, -[4203.48 --> 4207.82] right, which boasts on not having changed their liturgy for 2,000 years, -[4208.52 --> 4209.56] is growing right now. -[4210.76 --> 4214.12] There's even a smaller segment of super conservative, -[4214.54 --> 4218.08] small and specific Presbyterian and Reformed churches -[4218.08 --> 4220.10] that are experiencing growth right now. -[4220.10 --> 4222.34] And do you know where this growth is primarily happening? -[4223.52 --> 4224.88] Among young people. -[4227.22 --> 4228.52] Especially young men. -[4229.82 --> 4230.96] Why is that? -[4232.98 --> 4239.64] I suggest that when people inherit a faith, -[4239.72 --> 4242.54] or experience a faith from their parents, -[4242.74 --> 4243.56] or from their community, -[4243.84 --> 4245.96] that has no requirements on them, -[4246.92 --> 4249.22] that doesn't demand something from them, -[4249.22 --> 4252.32] in a matter of time, -[4252.40 --> 4253.10] they start asking, -[4253.32 --> 4254.22] why should I be required? -[4254.84 --> 4256.16] Or why should anything be required of me? -[4257.94 --> 4261.92] Why should I heed the discipline and the demand? -[4262.88 --> 4264.70] What we can learn from this, right, -[4264.72 --> 4267.42] is that it is actually the high demand -[4267.42 --> 4270.54] and an expectation of accountability and discipline -[4270.54 --> 4274.14] that is compelling to so many people. -[4274.94 --> 4276.36] In a world that says, -[4276.68 --> 4277.44] anything goes, -[4278.28 --> 4279.36] do whatever you want, -[4279.46 --> 4280.54] just don't hurt others. -[4280.88 --> 4282.14] Or, I mean, probably more accurate, -[4282.22 --> 4282.82] do whatever you want, -[4282.86 --> 4284.46] just don't hurt others without their consent. -[4286.46 --> 4287.54] A group, then, -[4287.58 --> 4289.48] that comes into this culture and moment -[4289.48 --> 4291.66] and has expectations on each other, -[4291.94 --> 4292.60] that has limited, -[4292.94 --> 4295.02] legitimate demands on those who participate, -[4295.32 --> 4297.68] that holds us to a high standard, -[4297.98 --> 4298.12] right, -[4298.12 --> 4300.10] that actually lives those demands well, -[4300.38 --> 4301.52] and yes, absolutely, -[4301.78 --> 4303.02] lives them gracefully, -[4303.52 --> 4305.36] is actually really, -[4305.60 --> 4307.26] deeply compelling -[4307.26 --> 4308.74] and beautiful. -[4310.84 --> 4312.34] And, let me be clear, -[4312.48 --> 4314.50] that shouldn't really surprise any of us -[4314.50 --> 4316.64] who have studied church history. -[4317.70 --> 4319.04] Right, in the early church, -[4319.70 --> 4321.04] especially in the first few centuries -[4321.04 --> 4323.08] when the Roman Empire -[4323.08 --> 4325.32] is sort of at its zenith, right, -[4325.62 --> 4327.88] that's also a sex-saturated, -[4328.06 --> 4329.42] promiscuous culture. -[4329.82 --> 4331.58] And the Christian church comes along -[4331.58 --> 4334.54] and it raises the bar of sexual ethics, -[4334.68 --> 4337.50] primarily for men in that society, -[4337.50 --> 4339.00] to what was previously thought -[4339.00 --> 4341.58] impossible levels. -[4343.02 --> 4343.98] And that was compelling, -[4344.10 --> 4344.96] not only for men, -[4345.08 --> 4347.42] but for women and for households -[4347.42 --> 4348.98] and for countless people -[4348.98 --> 4350.98] and the church grew exponentially -[4351.74 --> 4353.20] in that time. -[4356.54 --> 4357.34] And so, -[4357.76 --> 4359.58] as a church, -[4359.82 --> 4361.14] there are ways -[4361.14 --> 4362.20] and there are systems -[4362.20 --> 4362.98] that we have developed -[4363.90 --> 4366.66] to sort of institutionalize discipline. -[4367.20 --> 4368.08] And that's important -[4368.08 --> 4369.44] and that is good, right? -[4369.74 --> 4371.32] We have elders here -[4371.32 --> 4372.60] who are people -[4372.60 --> 4373.60] who have been nominated -[4373.60 --> 4375.48] and then selected by lot -[4375.48 --> 4376.06] to serve -[4376.06 --> 4377.30] and have been given -[4377.30 --> 4378.64] spiritual authority -[4378.64 --> 4379.48] over myself -[4379.48 --> 4380.90] and over us all -[4380.90 --> 4382.28] as members together. -[4382.40 --> 4384.00] Our elders have the responsibility -[4384.00 --> 4384.90] to encourage -[4384.90 --> 4386.72] and ensure holiness. -[4386.72 --> 4389.58] and so, -[4389.72 --> 4390.42] in the past, -[4390.94 --> 4393.44] we have needed to have conversations -[4393.44 --> 4394.86] about discipline -[4394.86 --> 4396.54] and about what that looks like. -[4397.42 --> 4398.46] And some people, -[4398.78 --> 4398.94] right, -[4399.00 --> 4399.98] instead of choosing -[4399.98 --> 4401.38] to receive that discipline, -[4401.60 --> 4402.72] have chosen to withdraw -[4402.72 --> 4403.56] from the fellowship -[4403.56 --> 4404.94] and they've walked away. -[4405.32 --> 4406.98] And that should break our hearts. -[4406.98 --> 4409.36] that does break our hearts. -[4410.18 --> 4410.66] And yet, -[4410.72 --> 4412.06] there have also been times -[4412.06 --> 4413.28] where some people -[4413.28 --> 4414.24] have entered into -[4414.24 --> 4415.62] that conversation, -[4415.76 --> 4417.52] have received that accountability -[4417.52 --> 4418.68] and discipline -[4418.68 --> 4419.88] and have repented -[4419.88 --> 4421.70] and started making deep changes -[4421.70 --> 4422.80] to their life, -[4422.86 --> 4423.58] who've recognized -[4423.58 --> 4424.62] and heeded the wisdom -[4424.62 --> 4426.04] and are now living into -[4426.04 --> 4427.38] and out of it, -[4427.50 --> 4428.32] seeking restoration -[4428.32 --> 4429.16] to Jesus -[4429.16 --> 4430.16] and the body. -[4430.34 --> 4430.96] And that, -[4431.18 --> 4432.96] that is a beautiful picture -[4432.96 --> 4434.36] of life together -[4434.36 --> 4436.06] lived in the gospel. -[4436.98 --> 4438.66] And this isn't just -[4438.66 --> 4439.66] for the elders now, -[4439.78 --> 4440.12] right? -[4440.16 --> 4441.66] This is for all of us -[4441.66 --> 4443.94] in different capacities -[4443.94 --> 4445.06] and in different ways. -[4445.18 --> 4446.24] But we all -[4446.24 --> 4447.32] have the responsibility -[4447.32 --> 4449.76] to encourage one another -[4449.76 --> 4451.58] with these words. -[4453.48 --> 4454.06] Now, again, -[4454.76 --> 4455.70] one last point here -[4455.70 --> 4457.06] because sometimes -[4457.06 --> 4457.82] you'll start to hear -[4457.82 --> 4458.60] what I'm not saying. -[4459.02 --> 4460.10] In verse 17, -[4460.98 --> 4461.80] Jesus says, -[4462.30 --> 4463.52] if they still refuse to listen, -[4463.66 --> 4464.36] tell it to the church -[4464.36 --> 4465.52] and if they refuse to listen -[4465.52 --> 4466.36] even to the church, -[4466.36 --> 4467.54] treat them as you would -[4467.54 --> 4469.80] a pagan or tax collector. -[4471.16 --> 4471.34] Now, -[4471.36 --> 4472.20] sometimes people -[4472.20 --> 4473.20] hear that word -[4473.20 --> 4474.98] and especially church people, -[4475.10 --> 4476.04] we know that pagan -[4476.04 --> 4476.96] is supposed to be -[4476.96 --> 4478.06] like a dirty word -[4478.06 --> 4479.40] and tax collector -[4479.40 --> 4480.26] for a Jewish person -[4480.26 --> 4481.32] was a dirty word. -[4482.12 --> 4482.56] Right? -[4482.60 --> 4483.24] And so then we think, -[4483.30 --> 4483.48] pssh, -[4484.00 --> 4484.90] have nothing to do with them. -[4485.66 --> 4485.78] Right? -[4485.82 --> 4486.50] Do not associate -[4486.50 --> 4487.70] even with them. -[4489.04 --> 4490.60] But remember who Jesus is. -[4491.98 --> 4493.22] Remember what Jesus did. -[4494.04 --> 4495.12] Jesus ate -[4495.12 --> 4496.46] with tax collectors -[4496.46 --> 4497.48] and sinners. -[4497.84 --> 4498.98] Jesus shared his life -[4498.98 --> 4499.62] with pagans -[4499.62 --> 4501.04] and prostitutes. -[4503.52 --> 4504.60] Even those people -[4504.60 --> 4505.90] who are receiving discipline, -[4506.04 --> 4506.96] perhaps especially -[4506.96 --> 4507.62] those people -[4507.62 --> 4509.04] who are receiving discipline, -[4509.24 --> 4510.12] we need to eat with them. -[4511.28 --> 4512.62] We need to share life with them. -[4513.78 --> 4515.62] And these people -[4515.62 --> 4516.70] who are in the middle -[4516.70 --> 4517.42] of struggle -[4517.42 --> 4518.68] and who are facing sin -[4518.68 --> 4519.58] in a hard way, -[4519.68 --> 4521.92] even if you're losing -[4521.92 --> 4522.64] the battle. -[4523.52 --> 4525.08] Jesus regularly -[4525.08 --> 4526.58] treats people -[4526.58 --> 4528.40] in this situation -[4528.40 --> 4529.60] with remarkable -[4529.60 --> 4532.28] and unparalleled compassion. -[4533.04 --> 4534.24] And we need to do the same. -[4536.46 --> 4537.06] But, -[4537.82 --> 4539.44] Jesus doesn't treat them -[4539.44 --> 4540.20] as disciples -[4540.20 --> 4541.80] until they repent. -[4543.50 --> 4543.66] Right? -[4543.70 --> 4544.70] The removal of fellowship -[4544.70 --> 4545.72] that Jesus has in mind -[4545.72 --> 4546.52] doesn't mean -[4546.52 --> 4547.70] no further contact. -[4548.54 --> 4548.90] Instead, -[4549.20 --> 4549.64] it means -[4549.64 --> 4550.52] it's not allowing them -[4550.52 --> 4552.40] to have the identity -[4552.40 --> 4553.24] of disciple, -[4553.44 --> 4554.24] to have the opportunity -[4554.24 --> 4555.06] that is reserved -[4555.06 --> 4555.78] for disciples, -[4556.00 --> 4556.56] for Christians -[4556.56 --> 4557.88] until repentance happens. -[4559.40 --> 4559.50] Right? -[4559.54 --> 4560.48] We have -[4560.48 --> 4561.54] and have -[4561.54 --> 4564.00] as a family here, -[4564.70 --> 4566.00] we cannot be afraid -[4566.00 --> 4567.28] of words -[4567.28 --> 4568.32] of discipline -[4568.32 --> 4569.30] because they're hard -[4569.30 --> 4569.88] to speak. -[4571.18 --> 4571.84] The author -[4571.84 --> 4572.30] of the letter -[4572.30 --> 4573.58] to the Hebrew -[4573.58 --> 4574.28] says that -[4574.28 --> 4575.24] God disciplines -[4575.24 --> 4575.98] those whom -[4575.98 --> 4576.46] he treats -[4576.46 --> 4577.08] as a son. -[4578.24 --> 4578.84] Remember that -[4578.84 --> 4579.80] conversation about adoption? -[4579.92 --> 4580.98] There is a straight line -[4580.98 --> 4581.90] from adoption -[4581.90 --> 4582.98] to sonship -[4582.98 --> 4584.26] and that line -[4584.26 --> 4584.86] is discipline. -[4585.92 --> 4586.70] And like a parent -[4586.70 --> 4587.72] of any child, -[4587.80 --> 4588.64] if you have had -[4588.64 --> 4589.18] the opportunity -[4589.18 --> 4589.80] to parent -[4589.80 --> 4590.92] and to need -[4590.92 --> 4591.52] to discipline -[4591.52 --> 4592.02] your child, -[4592.14 --> 4592.54] you know -[4592.54 --> 4593.28] that that is -[4593.28 --> 4594.26] the line -[4594.26 --> 4595.26] of love. -[4599.60 --> 4600.26] And so, -[4600.36 --> 4600.68] yes, -[4601.12 --> 4601.94] it is hard -[4601.94 --> 4604.82] and it is intimidating. -[4604.82 --> 4606.92] but it is -[4606.92 --> 4607.92] what we must -[4607.92 --> 4609.02] do -[4609.02 --> 4610.04] together. -[4613.36 --> 4614.20] Third reason -[4614.20 --> 4614.52] why -[4614.52 --> 4615.86] Jesus gives -[4615.86 --> 4616.64] us -[4616.64 --> 4617.18] for -[4617.18 --> 4618.52] the reason -[4618.52 --> 4619.50] why we gather -[4619.50 --> 4620.22] is that word -[4620.22 --> 4620.82] that I used -[4620.82 --> 4621.56] earlier, -[4621.70 --> 4621.96] that word -[4621.96 --> 4622.98] sacralizing. -[4623.86 --> 4624.60] Jesus says -[4624.60 --> 4625.74] in verse 18, -[4626.78 --> 4627.58] truly I tell you, -[4627.66 --> 4628.34] whatever you bind -[4628.34 --> 4628.84] on earth -[4628.84 --> 4629.40] will be bound -[4629.40 --> 4629.80] in heaven -[4629.80 --> 4630.82] and whatever you -[4630.82 --> 4631.60] loose on earth -[4631.60 --> 4632.34] will be loosed -[4632.34 --> 4633.52] in heaven. -[4634.60 --> 4634.74] Now, -[4634.78 --> 4635.88] to sacralize -[4635.88 --> 4636.96] means to -[4636.96 --> 4637.76] imbue -[4637.76 --> 4639.24] with spiritual -[4639.24 --> 4640.64] and sacred -[4640.64 --> 4641.56] meaning. -[4642.64 --> 4643.38] And I think -[4643.38 --> 4643.90] that's part -[4643.90 --> 4644.50] of what Jesus -[4644.50 --> 4645.84] means in this -[4645.84 --> 4646.22] phrase. -[4646.64 --> 4647.40] Jesus takes -[4647.40 --> 4648.20] the ordinary -[4648.20 --> 4649.82] and he imbues -[4649.82 --> 4650.70] it with deep -[4650.70 --> 4652.00] and spiritual -[4652.00 --> 4653.00] sacred -[4653.00 --> 4653.76] meaning. -[4655.16 --> 4655.96] In a moment -[4655.96 --> 4656.58] as we come -[4656.58 --> 4657.14] to the table -[4657.14 --> 4657.82] we will see -[4657.82 --> 4658.54] how he does -[4658.54 --> 4659.26] this with bread -[4659.26 --> 4660.14] and juice -[4660.14 --> 4660.66] saying that -[4660.66 --> 4661.64] this bread -[4661.64 --> 4663.00] is his flesh -[4663.00 --> 4664.46] and this juice -[4664.46 --> 4665.84] is his blood. -[4665.96 --> 4666.76] In the Lord's Supper -[4666.76 --> 4667.76] in the Eucharist -[4667.76 --> 4669.32] we truly receive -[4669.32 --> 4670.30] the spiritual -[4670.30 --> 4671.30] presence of Jesus -[4671.30 --> 4672.10] through these -[4672.10 --> 4673.52] otherwise ordinary -[4673.52 --> 4674.46] elements. -[4675.44 --> 4675.94] Likewise, -[4676.22 --> 4676.62] right now -[4676.62 --> 4677.34] in this moment -[4677.34 --> 4678.34] in the preaching -[4678.34 --> 4679.10] of the word -[4679.10 --> 4680.18] Jesus uses -[4680.18 --> 4680.92] the ordinary -[4680.92 --> 4682.18] means of preaching -[4682.18 --> 4683.22] of speaking -[4683.22 --> 4683.88] the gospel -[4683.88 --> 4685.06] and transforms -[4685.06 --> 4685.88] that into -[4685.88 --> 4686.98] the extraordinary -[4686.98 --> 4687.88] encounter -[4687.88 --> 4688.84] with the living God. -[4690.10 --> 4691.34] God comes alive -[4691.34 --> 4692.74] on the pages -[4692.74 --> 4694.50] of his revelation. -[4695.96 --> 4696.38] And likewise -[4696.38 --> 4697.62] in our worship -[4697.62 --> 4698.72] we gather -[4698.72 --> 4699.50] as believers -[4699.50 --> 4700.34] and disciples -[4700.34 --> 4701.74] to sing songs -[4701.74 --> 4702.38] and hymns -[4702.38 --> 4703.54] and spiritual songs -[4703.54 --> 4704.20] in praise -[4704.20 --> 4704.90] of our God -[4704.90 --> 4705.92] and to encourage -[4705.92 --> 4706.68] one another -[4706.68 --> 4707.42] with these things. -[4708.78 --> 4710.56] But as we do so -[4710.56 --> 4712.76] in a very real sense -[4712.76 --> 4715.08] we hear about this -[4715.08 --> 4715.96] in the book -[4715.96 --> 4716.58] of Revelations -[4716.58 --> 4717.60] chapter 4 and 5 -[4717.60 --> 4719.10] as we come together -[4719.10 --> 4720.20] in our worship -[4720.20 --> 4721.62] we see that -[4721.62 --> 4723.02] we're participating -[4723.02 --> 4724.14] in the heavens -[4724.14 --> 4725.68] themselves opening up -[4725.68 --> 4726.94] and the angels -[4726.94 --> 4728.58] and the 24 elders -[4728.58 --> 4729.32] and the creatures -[4729.32 --> 4730.84] praising God. -[4731.52 --> 4732.86] In a very sense -[4732.86 --> 4734.36] our worship here -[4734.36 --> 4735.86] participates -[4735.86 --> 4737.28] in all of creation -[4737.28 --> 4739.18] giving glory to God -[4739.18 --> 4740.56] and in this act -[4740.56 --> 4741.46] of our voices -[4741.46 --> 4742.44] being lifted up -[4742.44 --> 4743.82] the stones themselves -[4743.82 --> 4744.92] are crying out -[4744.92 --> 4745.54] and the trees -[4745.54 --> 4746.10] of the field -[4746.10 --> 4747.54] are clapping their hands -[4747.54 --> 4748.08] and the sun -[4748.08 --> 4748.82] and the moon -[4748.82 --> 4749.44] and the stars -[4749.44 --> 4751.14] twinkle in praises -[4751.14 --> 4752.46] ushering forth -[4752.46 --> 4753.62] in glory to God. -[4753.70 --> 4754.48] We are joining -[4754.48 --> 4756.00] in all of that -[4756.00 --> 4757.28] here and now -[4757.28 --> 4757.98] together. -[4759.76 --> 4761.02] And here too -[4761.02 --> 4762.70] the image -[4762.70 --> 4763.56] of the church -[4763.56 --> 4764.46] that we get -[4764.46 --> 4765.36] in the New Testament -[4765.36 --> 4766.88] as a bride -[4766.88 --> 4768.28] who is being prepared -[4768.28 --> 4769.22] for the groom -[4769.22 --> 4770.28] who is Jesus -[4770.28 --> 4771.66] that when Jesus -[4771.66 --> 4772.96] returns one day -[4772.96 --> 4773.62] at the sound -[4773.62 --> 4774.14] of the trumpet -[4774.14 --> 4775.30] with the call -[4775.30 --> 4776.18] of the archangel -[4776.18 --> 4777.06] as he returns -[4777.06 --> 4777.80] to earth -[4777.80 --> 4779.02] he will receive -[4779.02 --> 4780.00] the prize -[4780.00 --> 4781.04] for which he died -[4781.04 --> 4782.06] and that is you -[4782.06 --> 4782.84] and me. -[4783.54 --> 4784.52] That is the church -[4784.52 --> 4785.18] Catholic -[4785.18 --> 4786.14] throughout all times -[4786.14 --> 4786.76] and places -[4786.76 --> 4788.02] and we are being -[4788.02 --> 4789.26] prepared as a bride -[4789.26 --> 4791.10] beautifully adorned -[4791.10 --> 4792.08] for the bridegroom. -[4793.34 --> 4794.86] That is we are set apart. -[4796.06 --> 4797.90] We are made holy. -[4798.64 --> 4799.60] That's what the word -[4799.60 --> 4800.78] holy means -[4800.78 --> 4801.84] to be set apart -[4801.84 --> 4802.84] for a purpose. -[4803.22 --> 4803.90] Peter says -[4803.90 --> 4805.28] you are a chosen people -[4805.28 --> 4806.56] a royal priesthood -[4806.56 --> 4808.16] a holy nation -[4808.16 --> 4810.92] a special possession. -[4812.32 --> 4814.36] We are made sacred -[4814.36 --> 4816.62] and so our gathering here -[4816.62 --> 4819.02] is a mark of that being made holy -[4819.02 --> 4820.00] and an expression -[4820.00 --> 4822.20] of that sacral meaning. -[4823.98 --> 4826.04] And so each week -[4826.04 --> 4826.82] when we come -[4826.82 --> 4828.46] and we hear the truth -[4828.46 --> 4829.28] proclaimed -[4829.28 --> 4831.12] that Jesus lived the life -[4831.12 --> 4831.92] I should have lived -[4831.92 --> 4833.10] and that same Jesus -[4833.10 --> 4833.96] died the death -[4833.96 --> 4834.62] that I deserve -[4834.62 --> 4835.58] because of sin -[4835.58 --> 4836.52] and that same Jesus -[4836.52 --> 4837.90] was three days later -[4837.90 --> 4838.92] raised victorious -[4838.92 --> 4840.00] over sin and death -[4840.00 --> 4840.86] and that same Jesus -[4840.86 --> 4841.76] has ascended -[4841.76 --> 4842.58] to the right hand -[4842.58 --> 4843.26] of God the Father -[4843.26 --> 4844.20] and that same Jesus -[4844.20 --> 4845.24] from the right hand -[4845.24 --> 4845.82] of God the Father -[4845.82 --> 4846.66] along with the Father -[4846.66 --> 4847.56] has sent the Spirit -[4847.56 --> 4849.58] now to live in you -[4849.58 --> 4850.76] and that same Jesus -[4850.76 --> 4852.36] will one day return -[4852.36 --> 4853.60] when we hear that -[4853.60 --> 4854.96] week in and week out. -[4855.26 --> 4856.20] Not only are we -[4856.20 --> 4857.78] proclaiming a news -[4857.78 --> 4858.64] that is true -[4858.64 --> 4859.30] for the world -[4859.30 --> 4860.42] but we are hearing -[4860.42 --> 4861.30] and receiving -[4861.30 --> 4862.30] an identity -[4862.30 --> 4864.36] that will last -[4864.36 --> 4865.22] forever -[4865.22 --> 4867.18] because He -[4867.18 --> 4868.10] has called you -[4868.10 --> 4868.54] Son -[4868.54 --> 4871.12] He has made you -[4871.12 --> 4872.68] an heir of God -[4872.68 --> 4873.68] and a co-heir -[4873.68 --> 4875.04] with Christ -[4875.04 --> 4876.12] that -[4876.12 --> 4877.36] is who -[4877.36 --> 4878.32] we -[4878.32 --> 4879.48] are -[4879.48 --> 4881.68] and in our -[4881.68 --> 4882.26] gathering -[4882.26 --> 4883.90] we are given -[4883.90 --> 4885.16] a heavenly -[4885.16 --> 4886.40] purpose -[4886.40 --> 4887.96] in our gathering -[4887.96 --> 4889.28] we are equipped -[4889.28 --> 4891.40] to cast off -[4891.40 --> 4892.72] the bonds of sin -[4892.72 --> 4893.62] which so easily -[4893.62 --> 4894.14] entangle -[4894.14 --> 4895.18] and we are encouraged -[4895.18 --> 4896.12] to run the race -[4896.12 --> 4897.62] that was marked out -[4897.62 --> 4898.20] before us -[4898.20 --> 4899.04] with perseverance -[4899.04 --> 4901.70] in our holy -[4901.70 --> 4902.56] gathering -[4902.56 --> 4903.92] the holy church -[4903.92 --> 4906.06] fixes her holy eyes -[4906.06 --> 4907.40] on the holy Jesus -[4907.40 --> 4908.58] so that even -[4908.58 --> 4909.48] what we do -[4909.48 --> 4910.78] in this profane -[4910.78 --> 4911.92] and unholy world -[4911.92 --> 4912.96] is made sacred -[4912.96 --> 4914.40] is made worshipful -[4914.40 --> 4915.08] worshipful -[4915.08 --> 4915.84] is brought -[4915.84 --> 4916.68] into the -[4916.68 --> 4917.34] glory -[4917.34 --> 4918.28] of God -[4918.28 --> 4919.56] or to put it -[4919.56 --> 4920.02] another way -[4920.02 --> 4920.56] a way that you've -[4920.56 --> 4921.12] heard me say -[4921.12 --> 4921.82] before -[4921.82 --> 4922.72] we gather -[4922.72 --> 4923.60] in order to -[4923.60 --> 4924.02] scatter -[4924.02 --> 4925.02] because all of -[4925.02 --> 4925.36] life -[4925.36 --> 4926.50] is worship -[4926.50 --> 4929.68] finally -[4929.68 --> 4930.36] lastly -[4930.36 --> 4932.14] the fourth reason -[4932.14 --> 4932.62] we gather -[4932.62 --> 4933.36] from this text -[4933.36 --> 4935.12] Jesus says -[4935.12 --> 4936.44] here in -[4936.44 --> 4937.94] verse -[4937.94 --> 4938.84] 19 -[4938.84 --> 4940.48] again -[4940.48 --> 4941.62] truly I tell you -[4941.62 --> 4942.54] that if two of you -[4942.54 --> 4943.28] on earth agree -[4943.28 --> 4943.88] about anything -[4943.88 --> 4944.74] they ask for it -[4944.74 --> 4945.74] it will be done -[4945.74 --> 4946.18] for them -[4946.18 --> 4946.90] by my father -[4946.90 --> 4947.36] in heaven -[4947.36 --> 4948.68] for where two -[4948.68 --> 4949.58] or three gather -[4949.58 --> 4950.80] in my name -[4950.80 --> 4952.60] there I am -[4952.60 --> 4953.12] with them -[4953.12 --> 4956.66] this is why we -[4956.66 --> 4957.00] gather -[4957.00 --> 4958.52] in Jesus name -[4958.52 --> 4959.66] this is why we -[4959.66 --> 4959.98] pray -[4959.98 --> 4960.52] and why we -[4960.52 --> 4961.42] teach our kids -[4961.42 --> 4961.96] to pray -[4961.96 --> 4963.24] in Jesus name -[4963.24 --> 4964.14] because when we -[4964.14 --> 4964.92] gather in -[4964.92 --> 4966.10] Jesus name -[4966.10 --> 4967.40] he is -[4967.40 --> 4968.10] here -[4968.10 --> 4970.26] here and now -[4970.26 --> 4971.20] Jesus is -[4971.20 --> 4971.72] here -[4971.72 --> 4972.40] he meets -[4972.40 --> 4972.88] you -[4972.88 --> 4973.64] in this -[4973.64 --> 4973.82] place -[4973.82 --> 4974.14] even -[4974.14 --> 4975.40] 2000 years -[4975.40 --> 4976.04] later -[4976.04 --> 4977.18] after he -[4977.18 --> 4978.40] has ascended -[4978.40 --> 4979.16] he has sent -[4979.16 --> 4980.48] his Holy Spirit -[4980.48 --> 4981.24] and he -[4981.24 --> 4982.46] is here -[4982.46 --> 4983.52] and if you -[4983.52 --> 4983.86] have trouble -[4983.86 --> 4984.58] believing that -[4984.58 --> 4985.64] if you have -[4985.64 --> 4986.22] trouble seeing -[4986.22 --> 4986.62] that -[4986.62 --> 4987.70] look to the -[4987.70 --> 4988.16] person on -[4988.16 --> 4988.60] your left -[4988.60 --> 4990.30] look to your -[4990.30 --> 4990.52] left -[4990.52 --> 4990.96] look at that -[4990.96 --> 4991.26] person -[4991.26 --> 4993.28] there's Jesus -[4993.28 --> 4994.58] if you have -[4994.58 --> 4995.08] trouble believing -[4995.08 --> 4995.46] that look to -[4995.46 --> 4995.76] the person -[4995.76 --> 4996.28] on your right -[4996.28 --> 4998.14] there's Jesus -[4998.14 --> 4999.84] as Jesus -[4999.84 --> 5000.82] lives by the -[5000.82 --> 5001.12] Spirit -[5001.12 --> 5001.90] in your -[5001.90 --> 5002.32] hearts -[5002.32 --> 5002.94] and as we -[5002.94 --> 5003.76] come together -[5003.76 --> 5004.64] there's this -[5004.64 --> 5005.60] movement -[5005.60 --> 5006.48] this beauty -[5006.48 --> 5007.20] this power -[5007.20 --> 5007.98] of Jesus -[5007.98 --> 5008.58] coming -[5008.58 --> 5009.78] to us -[5009.78 --> 5010.76] right in the -[5010.76 --> 5011.46] heart of -[5011.46 --> 5012.36] those who -[5012.36 --> 5012.70] believe -[5012.70 --> 5013.02] and there's -[5013.02 --> 5013.72] something unique -[5013.72 --> 5014.86] and special -[5014.86 --> 5015.44] about when -[5015.44 --> 5015.92] those who -[5015.92 --> 5016.64] carry Jesus -[5016.64 --> 5017.54] in their -[5017.54 --> 5017.88] hearts -[5017.88 --> 5018.62] come together -[5018.62 --> 5019.28] that the -[5019.28 --> 5019.90] presence of -[5019.90 --> 5020.20] Jesus -[5020.20 --> 5021.48] is magnified -[5021.48 --> 5022.40] it grows -[5022.40 --> 5023.32] it is increased -[5023.32 --> 5024.08] exponentially -[5024.08 --> 5025.40] in our midst -[5025.40 --> 5025.88] there is -[5025.88 --> 5027.00] something special -[5027.00 --> 5028.16] about gathered -[5028.16 --> 5028.82] worship -[5028.82 --> 5029.62] and that is -[5029.62 --> 5030.32] that Jesus -[5030.32 --> 5031.60] meets you -[5031.60 --> 5032.32] here -[5032.32 --> 5036.40] we gather -[5036.40 --> 5037.54] because we -[5037.54 --> 5038.16] need accountability -[5038.16 --> 5040.36] we gather -[5040.36 --> 5040.82] because we -[5040.82 --> 5041.86] require discipline -[5041.86 --> 5043.56] we gather -[5043.56 --> 5044.26] to be made -[5044.26 --> 5045.00] holy and to -[5045.00 --> 5045.64] be sent out -[5045.64 --> 5046.32] with a sacred -[5046.32 --> 5047.20] purpose -[5047.20 --> 5048.24] and we gather -[5048.24 --> 5049.20] because here -[5049.20 --> 5050.30] we are welcomed -[5050.30 --> 5051.22] in the presence -[5051.22 --> 5052.04] of Jesus -[5052.04 --> 5053.52] here we receive -[5053.52 --> 5054.96] spiritual food -[5054.96 --> 5055.78] that we need -[5055.78 --> 5056.38] for life -[5056.38 --> 5057.28] and faith -[5057.28 --> 5057.96] in him -[5057.96 --> 5058.70] here -[5058.70 --> 5059.52] Jesus -[5059.52 --> 5060.80] is made -[5060.80 --> 5061.54] real -[5061.54 --> 5062.46] here -[5062.46 --> 5063.54] we see -[5063.54 --> 5064.04] Jesus -[5064.04 --> 5064.88] and so when we -[5064.88 --> 5066.10] pick up the bread -[5066.10 --> 5067.22] like Jesus did -[5067.22 --> 5068.54] when after supper -[5068.54 --> 5069.44] he had given thanks -[5069.44 --> 5070.12] he took the bread -[5070.12 --> 5070.82] and he broke it -[5070.82 --> 5071.26] and he said -[5071.26 --> 5072.60] this is my body -[5072.60 --> 5073.98] which is for you -[5073.98 --> 5074.92] do this -[5074.92 --> 5075.64] in remembrance -[5075.64 --> 5076.34] of me -[5076.34 --> 5077.08] Jesus -[5077.08 --> 5078.54] is here -[5078.54 --> 5079.96] in the supper -[5079.96 --> 5082.34] and in the same way -[5082.34 --> 5083.70] he took the cup -[5083.70 --> 5084.58] when they had finished -[5084.58 --> 5086.38] and he gave thanks -[5086.38 --> 5086.84] and he said -[5086.84 --> 5087.44] this cup -[5087.44 --> 5088.72] is the new covenant -[5088.72 --> 5090.00] in my blood -[5090.00 --> 5091.20] do this -[5091.20 --> 5092.34] in remembrance -[5092.34 --> 5093.64] of me -[5093.64 --> 5095.48] for whenever we -[5095.48 --> 5096.18] eat this bread -[5096.18 --> 5096.90] and drink -[5096.90 --> 5097.96] this cup -[5097.96 --> 5098.66] we proclaim -[5098.66 --> 5099.46] the Lord's death -[5099.46 --> 5100.56] until he comes again -[5100.56 --> 5101.58] and -[5101.58 --> 5104.18] we meet -[5104.18 --> 5105.32] Jesus -[5105.32 --> 5107.76] we gather -[5107.76 --> 5108.62] at this table -[5108.62 --> 5111.14] because Jesus -[5111.14 --> 5112.98] is here -[5112.98 --> 5114.24] with us -[5114.24 --> 5115.20] Christians -[5115.20 --> 5116.40] throughout -[5116.40 --> 5117.36] history -[5117.36 --> 5118.40] have gathered -[5118.40 --> 5119.40] at this table -[5119.40 --> 5120.50] because Jesus -[5120.50 --> 5121.58] is here -[5121.58 --> 5122.74] with us -[5122.74 --> 5124.30] today -[5124.30 --> 5125.62] we're going to -[5125.62 --> 5126.76] celebrate the Lord's -[5126.76 --> 5127.00] Supper -[5127.00 --> 5128.40] using -[5128.40 --> 5130.24] different liturgy -[5130.24 --> 5131.22] than what you might -[5131.22 --> 5131.78] be used to -[5131.78 --> 5132.36] now -[5132.36 --> 5132.92] liturgy -[5132.92 --> 5133.86] is the church -[5133.86 --> 5134.34] word -[5134.34 --> 5135.68] the word that we use -[5135.68 --> 5136.12] in church -[5136.12 --> 5136.68] for those things -[5136.68 --> 5137.32] that we say -[5137.32 --> 5138.16] and speak -[5138.16 --> 5138.88] or those actions -[5138.88 --> 5139.52] that we take -[5139.52 --> 5141.18] this morning -[5141.18 --> 5142.30] our liturgy -[5142.30 --> 5143.18] comes from -[5143.18 --> 5144.02] the Didache -[5144.02 --> 5145.44] Didache -[5145.44 --> 5146.66] is a Greek word -[5146.66 --> 5147.66] and a Greek document -[5147.66 --> 5148.70] called the teachings -[5148.70 --> 5149.32] sometimes called -[5149.32 --> 5149.78] the teachings -[5149.78 --> 5150.48] of the apostles -[5150.48 --> 5152.20] and it dates -[5152.20 --> 5153.56] back to the first -[5153.56 --> 5154.28] century -[5154.28 --> 5155.46] of the church -[5155.46 --> 5156.92] that means -[5156.92 --> 5157.90] that some of the -[5157.90 --> 5158.86] writings in the Didache -[5158.86 --> 5159.62] are older -[5159.62 --> 5160.70] than the New Testament -[5160.70 --> 5161.60] writings that we have -[5161.60 --> 5163.82] my point is -[5163.82 --> 5164.98] these practices -[5164.98 --> 5166.50] are ancient -[5166.50 --> 5167.70] the words that we -[5167.70 --> 5168.60] are about to speak -[5168.60 --> 5169.64] being ancient -[5169.64 --> 5171.04] are uniting us -[5171.04 --> 5172.00] with the church -[5172.00 --> 5173.38] of 2,000 years -[5173.38 --> 5174.40] of history -[5174.40 --> 5175.76] because we all -[5175.76 --> 5176.34] gather -[5176.34 --> 5177.28] here -[5177.28 --> 5178.28] at this -[5178.28 --> 5179.36] table -[5179.36 --> 5181.60] now the early -[5181.60 --> 5182.94] Greek speaking church -[5182.94 --> 5184.28] called the Lord's -[5184.28 --> 5184.52] Supper -[5184.52 --> 5185.48] the Eucharist -[5185.48 --> 5186.42] which means -[5186.42 --> 5186.92] in Greek -[5186.92 --> 5187.84] the Thanksgiving -[5187.84 --> 5189.40] and the root -[5189.40 --> 5190.06] of the word -[5190.06 --> 5190.60] Eucharist -[5190.60 --> 5191.32] is charis -[5191.32 --> 5191.78] we have some -[5191.78 --> 5192.54] charises here -[5192.54 --> 5193.82] it means grace -[5193.82 --> 5195.12] or sometimes joy -[5195.12 --> 5196.82] at the table -[5196.82 --> 5197.64] of the Lord -[5197.64 --> 5198.88] we give thanks -[5198.88 --> 5199.70] for grace -[5199.70 --> 5201.60] and joy -[5201.60 --> 5202.78] that we have -[5202.78 --> 5203.42] received -[5203.42 --> 5204.48] in the person -[5204.48 --> 5205.52] of Jesus Christ -[5205.52 --> 5206.80] and Christians -[5206.80 --> 5207.40] have been doing -[5207.40 --> 5208.34] this for millennia -[5208.34 --> 5209.00] and today -[5209.00 --> 5210.42] we join -[5210.42 --> 5211.30] them -[5211.30 --> 5213.42] throughout the liturgy -[5213.42 --> 5214.14] that I'm about to -[5214.14 --> 5215.14] lead us in -[5215.14 --> 5215.56] there will be -[5215.56 --> 5216.04] opportunities -[5216.04 --> 5217.38] for you to respond -[5217.38 --> 5218.08] those words -[5218.08 --> 5219.54] will be on screen -[5219.54 --> 5221.24] and so I invite -[5221.24 --> 5222.46] you to join -[5222.46 --> 5223.00] your heart -[5223.00 --> 5223.94] and your voice -[5223.94 --> 5224.52] with mine -[5224.52 --> 5225.54] as we come -[5225.54 --> 5226.50] to the table -[5226.50 --> 5227.74] of God -[5227.74 --> 5230.76] so we pray -[5230.76 --> 5231.16] together -[5231.16 --> 5233.66] we give thanks -[5233.66 --> 5234.14] to you -[5234.14 --> 5234.74] father -[5234.74 --> 5235.96] for the holy -[5235.96 --> 5236.82] vine of your -[5236.82 --> 5237.30] servant -[5237.30 --> 5238.08] David -[5238.08 --> 5239.18] for the church -[5239.18 --> 5240.08] gathered from -[5240.08 --> 5241.14] all the nations -[5241.14 --> 5242.04] which you have -[5242.04 --> 5242.64] made known -[5242.64 --> 5243.22] to us -[5243.22 --> 5243.72] through -[5243.72 --> 5244.84] Jesus -[5244.84 --> 5249.18] glory to you -[5249.18 --> 5250.08] for all -[5250.08 --> 5250.88] without him -[5250.88 --> 5253.68] we give thanks -[5253.68 --> 5254.20] to you -[5254.20 --> 5255.28] our father -[5255.28 --> 5256.46] for the life -[5256.46 --> 5257.14] and knowledge -[5257.14 --> 5257.78] you have made -[5257.78 --> 5258.58] known to us -[5258.58 --> 5259.58] through your -[5259.58 --> 5260.10] servant -[5260.10 --> 5261.12] Jesus -[5261.12 --> 5264.12] glory to you -[5264.12 --> 5264.94] for all -[5264.94 --> 5265.70] without him -[5265.70 --> 5268.38] as this -[5268.38 --> 5269.54] broken bread -[5269.54 --> 5270.88] once dispersed -[5270.88 --> 5271.66] over the hills -[5271.66 --> 5272.18] was brought -[5272.18 --> 5272.62] together -[5272.62 --> 5273.46] to make -[5273.46 --> 5274.34] one loaf -[5274.34 --> 5275.00] so may -[5275.00 --> 5275.76] your church -[5275.76 --> 5276.72] be brought -[5276.72 --> 5277.16] together -[5277.16 --> 5277.94] from the ends -[5277.94 --> 5278.46] of the earth -[5278.46 --> 5279.94] into your -[5279.94 --> 5280.82] kingdom -[5280.82 --> 5290.58] thanks be to you -[5290.58 --> 5291.66] God our holy -[5291.66 --> 5292.52] father for your -[5292.52 --> 5293.54] sacred name -[5293.54 --> 5294.38] which you have -[5294.38 --> 5295.76] caused to dwell -[5295.76 --> 5297.02] in our hearts -[5297.02 --> 5298.06] and for the -[5298.06 --> 5298.72] knowledge and -[5298.72 --> 5299.56] faith and -[5299.56 --> 5300.60] everlasting life -[5300.60 --> 5301.36] which you have -[5301.36 --> 5302.56] revealed to us -[5302.56 --> 5303.66] through your -[5303.66 --> 5304.18] servant -[5304.18 --> 5305.28] Jesus -[5305.28 --> 5308.40] glory to you -[5308.40 --> 5309.18] forever -[5309.18 --> 5312.48] you oh lord -[5312.48 --> 5313.74] have created -[5313.74 --> 5314.58] all things -[5314.58 --> 5315.66] for your name's -[5315.66 --> 5316.06] sake -[5316.06 --> 5317.54] and to all -[5317.54 --> 5318.20] people you have -[5318.20 --> 5318.82] given food -[5318.82 --> 5319.34] and drink -[5319.34 --> 5319.86] to joy -[5319.86 --> 5320.40] that they may -[5320.40 --> 5320.94] give thanks -[5320.94 --> 5321.44] to you -[5321.44 --> 5323.06] but to us -[5323.06 --> 5323.66] you have -[5323.66 --> 5324.66] graciously given -[5324.66 --> 5325.90] spiritual food -[5325.90 --> 5326.82] and drink -[5326.82 --> 5328.74] together with -[5328.74 --> 5329.56] life eternal -[5329.56 --> 5330.62] we receive -[5330.62 --> 5331.22] these through -[5331.22 --> 5332.16] your servant -[5332.16 --> 5333.38] especially -[5333.38 --> 5334.12] and above -[5334.12 --> 5335.20] all do we -[5335.20 --> 5335.82] give thanks -[5335.82 --> 5336.86] to you -[5336.86 --> 5337.42] for the -[5337.42 --> 5338.08] mightiness -[5338.08 --> 5339.20] of your -[5339.20 --> 5340.16] power -[5340.16 --> 5343.28] glory to you -[5343.28 --> 5343.98] forever -[5343.98 --> 5347.98] as we come -[5347.98 --> 5348.80] to the table -[5348.80 --> 5349.38] there will be -[5349.38 --> 5350.36] elders up here -[5350.36 --> 5350.84] with me -[5350.84 --> 5351.32] who will -[5351.32 --> 5352.42] serve the -[5352.42 --> 5352.98] gathering -[5352.98 --> 5353.80] we'll move -[5353.80 --> 5354.38] through sort -[5354.38 --> 5354.96] of row by -[5354.96 --> 5355.30] row -[5355.30 --> 5356.46] there will be -[5356.46 --> 5356.98] a couple other -[5356.98 --> 5357.56] elders who will -[5357.56 --> 5358.26] indicate your -[5358.26 --> 5359.70] opportunity to -[5359.70 --> 5360.18] come to the -[5360.18 --> 5360.40] front -[5360.40 --> 5360.98] as you are -[5360.98 --> 5361.60] called to the -[5361.60 --> 5361.82] front -[5361.82 --> 5362.80] you come up -[5362.80 --> 5364.42] and gather -[5364.42 --> 5365.02] around this -[5365.02 --> 5365.30] table -[5365.30 --> 5365.60] and I -[5365.60 --> 5366.40] encourage you -[5366.40 --> 5367.38] as you pass -[5367.38 --> 5367.78] the bread -[5367.78 --> 5368.36] to the person -[5368.36 --> 5369.08] beside you -[5369.08 --> 5370.44] say the body -[5370.44 --> 5371.00] of Christ -[5371.00 --> 5371.96] given for you -[5371.96 --> 5373.00] as you pass -[5373.00 --> 5373.48] the juice -[5373.48 --> 5374.14] to the person -[5374.14 --> 5374.80] beside you -[5374.80 --> 5375.82] say the blood -[5375.82 --> 5376.44] of Christ -[5376.44 --> 5377.72] shed for you -[5377.72 --> 5379.50] the first table -[5379.50 --> 5379.92] I'm going to -[5379.92 --> 5380.94] invite those -[5380.94 --> 5381.68] elders and -[5381.68 --> 5382.34] worship leaders -[5382.34 --> 5383.14] up to the front -[5383.14 --> 5384.00] so that they -[5384.00 --> 5384.58] might receive -[5384.58 --> 5385.42] first and then -[5385.42 --> 5386.92] serve the rest -[5386.92 --> 5387.78] of us in that -[5387.78 --> 5389.22] time together -[5401.96 --> 5404.00] for you -[5431.96 --> 5461.94] Thank you. -[5461.96 --> 5491.94] Thank you. -[5491.96 --> 5521.94] Thank you. -[5521.96 --> 5551.94] Thank you. -[5551.96 --> 5581.94] Thank you. -[5581.96 --> 5611.94] Thank you. -[5611.96 --> 5613.96] Thank you. -[5641.96 --> 5643.96] Thank you. -[5671.96 --> 5673.96] Thank you. -[5701.96 --> 5703.96] Thank you. -[5731.96 --> 5733.96] Thank you. -[5761.96 --> 5763.96] Thank you. -[5763.96 --> 5765.96] Thank you. -[5765.96 --> 5767.96] Thank you. -[5767.96 --> 5769.96] Thank you. -[5769.96 --> 5771.96] Thank you. -[5771.96 --> 5773.96] Thank you. -[5773.96 --> 5775.96] Thank you. -[5775.96 --> 5779.96] Thank you. -[5779.96 --> 5781.96] And double and -[5781.96 --> 5789.96] my debt and raise this life up from the dead. -[5811.96 --> 5828.24] My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness. -[5828.24 --> 5844.00] I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly trust in Jesus' name. -[5844.00 --> 5858.20] My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness. -[5860.60 --> 5872.40] I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly trust in Jesus' name. -[5874.00 --> 5888.00] Christ alone, cornerstone, weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[5888.46 --> 5898.12] Through the storm, he is Lord, Lord of all. -[5898.12 --> 5915.12] When darkness seems to hide his face, I rest on his unchanging grace. -[5915.12 --> 5928.86] In every high and stormy gale, my anchor holds within the veil. -[5928.86 --> 5935.66] My anchor holds within the veil. -[5936.86 --> 5949.56] Christ alone, cornerstone, weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[5949.56 --> 5960.56] Through the storm, he is Lord, Lord of all. -[5960.56 --> 5962.56] Christ alone, weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[5962.56 --> 5976.56] When he shall come with trumpet sound, O may I then in him be found. -[5976.56 --> 5988.56] Dressed in his righteousness alone, fogless stand before the throne. -[5988.56 --> 6018.54] Christ alone, we shall come with trumpet sound, O may I then in him be found. -[6018.54 --> 6025.54] Christ alone, cornerstone, weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[6025.54 --> 6029.54] Weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[6029.54 --> 6041.54] Through the storm, he is Lord, Lord of all. -[6041.54 --> 6046.54] Christ alone, cornerstone, weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[6046.54 --> 6051.54] Christ alone, cornerstone, weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[6051.54 --> 6066.54] Through the storm, he is Lord, Lord of all. -[6066.54 --> 6068.54] And I was really 있다는 for all the wrath of his wings. -[6068.54 --> 6070.54] Over the storm, aprèsственный götttes, imp stereo'erât the Ciabas. -[6070.54 --> 6071.54] Prime здоров,CTация wiring allá. -[6071.54 --> 6073.54] Ratherом, we could not docourse to the sun's love. -[6073.54 --> 6074.54] Yet, let me just pause and pause and pause and pause, -[6074.54 --> 6075.54] Reack Lublin is in thecip 호 Cadreером i teksty. -[6075.54 --> 6085.14] For example, I can also face where I can only wash my sands -[6085.14 --> 6110.30] Before the throne of God above -[6110.30 --> 6114.66] I have a strong and perfectly -[6114.66 --> 6120.42] A great high priest whose name is love -[6120.42 --> 6125.36] Whoever lives and pleads for me -[6125.36 --> 6130.46] My name is graven on his hands -[6130.46 --> 6135.44] My name is written on his heart -[6135.44 --> 6140.32] I know that while in heaven he stands -[6140.32 --> 6144.44] No tongue can bid me thence depart -[6144.44 --> 6149.44] No tongue can bid me thence depart -[6149.44 --> 6161.80] When Satan tempts me to despair -[6161.80 --> 6167.20] And tells me of the guilt within -[6167.20 --> 6171.44] Upward I look and see him there -[6171.44 --> 6176.44] Who made an end of all my sin -[6177.08 --> 6181.44] Because the sinless Savior died -[6182.10 --> 6186.44] My sinful soul is counted free -[6186.96 --> 6191.44] For God the just is satisfied -[6191.44 --> 6196.76] To look on him and pardon me -[6196.76 --> 6202.44] To look on him and pardon me -[6202.44 --> 6213.44] Behold him there the risen Lamb -[6214.24 --> 6218.44] My perfect spotless righteousness -[6218.44 --> 6223.88] The great unchangeable I am -[6223.88 --> 6228.88] The King of glory and of grace -[6228.88 --> 6233.82] One with himself I cannot die -[6233.82 --> 6238.76] My soul is purchased by his blood -[6238.76 --> 6243.48] My life is hid with Christ on high -[6243.48 --> 6247.92] With Christ my Savior and my God -[6247.92 --> 6252.92] With Christ my Savior and my God -[6252.92 --> 6258.30] One with himself I cannot die -[6258.30 --> 6263.28] My soul is purchased by his blood -[6263.28 --> 6268.04] My life is hid with Christ on high -[6268.04 --> 6273.12] With Christ my Savior and my God -[6273.12 --> 6279.56] With Christ my Savior and my God -[6279.56 --> 6297.58] What was my son is -[6297.78 --> 6298.78] Your voicesana -[6298.78 --> 6304.66] Who made one between you -[6304.66 --> 6322.80] Yes, we were waiting without hope, without light -[6322.80 --> 6326.16] Till from heaven you came running -[6326.16 --> 6330.20] There was mercy in your eyes -[6330.20 --> 6333.58] To fulfill the law and prophets -[6333.58 --> 6337.24] To a virgin came the word -[6337.24 --> 6340.68] From a throne of endless glory -[6340.68 --> 6344.74] To a cradle in the dirt -[6344.74 --> 6357.46] Praise the Father, praise the Son -[6357.46 --> 6364.56] Praise the Spirit, three in one -[6364.56 --> 6370.56] God of glory, majesty -[6370.56 --> 6378.56] Praise forever to the King of kings -[6378.56 --> 6385.66] To reveal the kingdom coming -[6385.66 --> 6389.66] And to reconcile the lost -[6389.66 --> 6393.82] To redeem the whole creation -[6393.82 --> 6397.82] You did not despise the cross -[6397.82 --> 6401.10] For even in your suffering -[6401.10 --> 6403.72] You sought to the other side -[6403.72 --> 6407.38] Knowing this was our salvation -[6407.38 --> 6412.82] Jesus, for our sake you died -[6412.82 --> 6423.92] Praise the Father, praise the Son -[6423.92 --> 6431.98] Praise the Spirit, three in one -[6431.98 --> 6438.08] God of glory, majesty -[6438.08 --> 6447.02] Praise forever to the King of kings -[6447.02 --> 6454.12] And the morning that you rose -[6454.12 --> 6458.18] All of heaven held its breath -[6458.18 --> 6461.52] Till that stone was moved for good -[6461.52 --> 6465.36] For the Lamb had conquered death -[6465.36 --> 6468.12] And the dead rose from their tombs -[6468.12 --> 6471.78] And the angels stood in awe -[6471.78 --> 6475.58] For the souls of all who come -[6475.58 --> 6478.72] To the Father are restored -[6478.72 --> 6482.52] And the church of Christ was born -[6482.52 --> 6486.18] Then the Spirit lit the flame -[6486.18 --> 6489.30] Now this gospel truth of old -[6489.30 --> 6492.28] Shall not kneel, shall not faint -[6492.28 --> 6496.22] By His blood and in His name -[6496.22 --> 6499.54] In His freedom I am free -[6499.54 --> 6503.02] For the love of Jesus Christ -[6503.02 --> 6506.94] Who has resurrected me -[6506.94 --> 6515.58] Praise the Father -[6515.58 --> 6519.00] Praise the Son -[6519.00 --> 6526.00] Praise the Spirit, three in one -[6526.00 --> 6531.74] God of glory, majesty -[6531.74 --> 6539.86] Praise forever to the King of kings -[6539.86 --> 6548.98] Praise forever to the King of kings -[6548.98 --> 6570.72] As we turn back to the 2,000 year old liturgy -[6570.72 --> 6571.46] From the Didache -[6571.46 --> 6573.56] Again, there will be words for you to speak -[6573.56 --> 6574.98] On the screen -[6574.98 --> 6576.34] We pray -[6576.34 --> 6579.84] O Lord, remember your church -[6579.84 --> 6582.54] Deliver her from all evil -[6582.54 --> 6584.44] Perfect her in your love -[6584.44 --> 6585.68] Sanctify her -[6585.68 --> 6588.42] And gather her from the four winds -[6588.42 --> 6589.28] Into the kingdom -[6589.28 --> 6592.16] Which you have prepared for us -[6592.16 --> 6600.28] Let grace come -[6600.28 --> 6602.46] May Jesus come quickly -[6602.46 --> 6604.12] And this present world -[6604.12 --> 6604.14] And this present world -[6604.14 --> 6605.00] Pass away -[6605.00 --> 6610.90] Let the Holy One approach -[6610.90 --> 6612.74] And whoever is not -[6612.74 --> 6613.98] May they repent -[6613.98 --> 6615.30] And turn to you -[6615.30 --> 6616.50] Lord Jesus -[6616.50 --> 6618.38] Maranatha -[6618.38 --> 6619.84] Come quickly -[6619.84 --> 6620.88] Lord Jesus -[6620.88 --> 6622.34] Amen -[6622.34 --> 6625.56] Standing where you are -[6625.56 --> 6627.16] I invite you to receive now -[6627.16 --> 6628.02] The blessing -[6628.02 --> 6629.90] Blessing of God -[6629.90 --> 6632.52] Blessing of God for the days -[6632.52 --> 6633.86] And week ahead -[6633.86 --> 6635.36] The blessing of God for the ministry -[6635.36 --> 6636.32] And mission year -[6636.32 --> 6637.92] To come in our midst -[6637.92 --> 6640.22] The blessing of God spoken to you -[6640.22 --> 6641.36] His church -[6641.36 --> 6642.42] The household -[6642.42 --> 6643.82] And family of God -[6643.82 --> 6646.10] Receive his words now -[6646.10 --> 6648.66] May God go before you -[6648.66 --> 6649.64] To lead you -[6649.64 --> 6651.76] May God go behind you -[6651.76 --> 6652.72] To guard you -[6652.72 --> 6654.78] May God go beneath you -[6654.78 --> 6655.64] To support you -[6655.64 --> 6657.56] And may God go beside you -[6657.56 --> 6658.74] To befriend you -[6658.74 --> 6661.18] Do not be afraid -[6661.18 --> 6662.90] Let the blessing of God -[6662.90 --> 6663.82] Come upon you today -[6663.82 --> 6665.46] Do not be afraid -[6665.46 --> 6667.46] But go in peace -[6667.46 --> 6671.00] To love and serve the Lord -[6671.00 --> 6672.86] Amen -[6685.64 --> 6695.46] Nice -[6695.46 --> 6710.12] Where's my name tag? -[6710.78 --> 6711.06] Alright -[6711.06 --> 6720.76] Glorify your name -[6720.76 --> 6726.72] Glorify your name -[6726.72 --> 6732.10] Glorify your name -[6732.10 --> 6736.60] In all the earth -[6736.60 --> 6766.58] Glorify your name -[6766.58 --> 6772.00] Glorify your name -[6772.00 --> 6773.58] Glorify your name -[6773.58 --> 6778.28] Glorify your name -[6778.28 --> 6782.66] Glorify your name -[6782.66 --> 6788.06] In all the earth -[6788.06 --> 6793.48] Glorify your name -[6793.48 --> 6796.48] Spirit we love you -[6796.48 --> 6798.98] We worship -[6798.98 --> 6803.14] We adore you -[6803.14 --> 6805.48] Glorify your name -[6805.48 --> 6807.48] Glorify your name -[6807.48 --> 6810.76] In all the earth -[6810.76 --> 6818.04] Glorify your name -[6818.04 --> 6821.36] Glorify your name -[6821.36 --> 6828.08] Glorify thy name -[6828.08 --> 6832.88] Glorify thy name -[6832.88 --> 6838.36] In all the earth -[6838.36 --> 6847.30] Glorify thy name -[6847.30 --> 6853.86] Glorify thy name -[6853.86 --> 6859.10] Glorify thy name -[6859.10 --> 6864.16] In all the earth -[6877.30 --> 6887.30] Glorify thy name -[6887.30 --> 6896.98] Glorify thy name -[6896.98 --> 6901.76] Glorify thy name -[6901.76 --> 6905.82] Glorify thy name -[6905.82 --> 6909.76] Glorify thy name -[6909.76 --> 6910.76] Amen. -[6939.76 --> 6940.76] Amen. -[6969.76 --> 6970.76] Amen. -[6999.76 --> 7000.76] Amen. -[7029.76 --> 7030.76] Amen. -[7059.76 --> 7060.76] Amen. -[7089.76 --> 7090.76] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 12 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 12 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index af4d9c09b53fc61bc1365251ceddaebd7afe7f86..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 12 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,42 +0,0 @@ -• Repetition of "Thank you" -• Questioning one's ability to sing or give attention -• Use of phrases such as "Oh, will I sing?" and "I give all the singing" -• Mention of being surrounded by glory and having one's own will -• Prolonged repetition of "Thank you" towards the end -• COVID restrictions on gatherings -• Difficulty in worshiping from home during lockdown -• Apathy and laziness in some individuals -• Question of "what's the point" in worship -• Isaiah 50, a servant song that reveals the reason for being here -• The name phrase "sovereign Lord" is used four times in this chapter -• The servant has a "well-instructed tongue" or "discipled tongue" -• The servant gives life and not death through their word -• Comparison to Jesus' preaching and promise of rest -• The servant (Jesus) brings life through God's word and sacraments -• The word of Jesus transforms people from death to life -• The relationship between the servant and the sovereign Lord is one of unity and obedience -• The servant is obedient to the sovereign Lord, who teaches and instructs him -• To hear and obey are used interchangeably in Hebrew language -• The words of the servant (Jesus) are the same as the words of the sovereign Lord -• The servant in the Old Testament is seen as obedient, but Israel fails to obey -• This obedience is demonstrated by Jesus, who hears and obeys God's voice -• The deeper narrative of the Old Testament reveals God's gospel story through the servant figure -• Jesus' life, death, and resurrection demonstrate his perfect obedience to God's will -• Through Jesus' suffering and death, sinners are made righteous and God's love is demonstrated -• Coming to hear the Word and participate in communion helps believers remember God's love and commitment -• The importance of holding onto Christ in times of struggle and doubt -• Reading scripture (Romans 8) as a prayer for guidance and comfort -• The assurance of God's love and salvation through Christ Jesus -• Personal testimony of being lost but finding hope in Jesus' love and sacrifice -• Recognizing that all one has is Christ, leading to declarations of praise and worship -• Invitation to participate in the liturgy and receive communion -• Explanation of the significance of Jesus' last supper and the sacrament -• Invitation to those who are truly sorry for their sins, believe in Jesus as Savior, and desire to live in obedience to him -• Communion service with elders serving at the table -• Singing of hymns, including "Holy, Holy, Holy" and a song about the love of Christ -• Prayer and blessings before parting -• God's presence and power in daily life -• Faith and worship through song -• Overcoming challenges and hardships with God's help -• Jesus as Savior and Lord of heaven and earth -• The church rising up with faith and song \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 12 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 12 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 86e6490e385dcf1ae45654d1252cf5b58aee4ced..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 12 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,555 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.00] . -[30.00 --> 32.00] . -[60.00 --> 62.00] . -[90.00 --> 92.00] . -[92.00 --> 94.00] . -[94.00 --> 96.00] . -[96.00 --> 98.00] . -[98.00 --> 100.00] . -[100.00 --> 102.00] . -[102.00 --> 104.00] . -[104.00 --> 106.00] . -[106.00 --> 108.00] . -[108.00 --> 110.00] . -[110.00 --> 112.00] . -[112.00 --> 114.00] . -[114.00 --> 116.00] . -[116.00 --> 118.00] . -[118.20 --> 122.00] . -[122.00 --> 124.00] . -[124.00 --> 125.30] . -[125.30 --> 125.98] . -[125.98 --> 136.28] . -[136.28 --> 136.92] . -[136.92 --> 138.98] . -[138.98 --> 141.44] . -[141.44 --> 143.18] . -[143.18 --> 145.64] . -[145.64 --> 147.58] . -[147.58 --> 147.64] . -[147.64 --> 150.32] Oh, will I sing? -[150.74 --> 151.78] How do I sing? -[152.28 --> 154.14] Will I give all the singing? -[154.36 --> 156.96] Oh, I give all the attention. -[158.42 --> 158.82] Yeah. -[160.66 --> 162.44] I give all the attention. -[167.64 --> 169.78] Surrounded by your glory. -[170.52 --> 172.64] One will, my one will. -[173.20 --> 174.28] Will I sing? -[174.28 --> 176.24] Oh, you give me. -[176.24 --> 178.24] Oh, will I give me. -[179.10 --> 180.50] Oh, will I stand? -[180.62 --> 181.72] It's your pleasure. -[182.30 --> 183.36] I give all the attention. -[183.44 --> 186.30] Oh, will I sing? -[186.56 --> 187.32] Hallelujah. -[188.44 --> 190.12] I give all the singing. -[190.84 --> 192.34] I give all the attention. -[194.18 --> 194.68] Yeah. -[196.44 --> 198.38] I give all the attention. -[198.38 --> 199.38] Yeah. -[202.26 --> 204.32] I give all the attention. -[204.32 --> 204.36] What did I do? -[208.84 --> 210.70] I give all the attention. -[214.70 --> 216.30] I give all the attention. -[220.50 --> 222.24] I give all the attention. -[222.24 --> 252.22] Thank you. -[252.24 --> 282.22] Thank you. -[282.24 --> 312.22] Thank you. -[312.24 --> 342.22] Thank you. -[342.24 --> 372.22] Thank you. -[372.24 --> 402.22] Thank you. -[402.24 --> 432.22] Thank you. -[432.24 --> 462.22] Thank you. -[462.24 --> 492.22] Thank you. -[492.24 --> 522.22] Thank you. -[522.24 --> 552.22] Thank you. -[552.24 --> 582.22] Thank you. -[582.24 --> 612.22] Thank you. -[612.24 --> 642.22] Thank you. -[642.24 --> 672.22] Thank you. -[672.24 --> 674.24] Thank you. -[702.24 --> 732.22] Thank you. -[732.24 --> 762.22] Thank you. -[762.24 --> 792.22] Thank you. -[792.24 --> 822.22] Thank you. -[822.24 --> 852.22] Thank you. -[852.24 --> 882.22] Thank you. -[882.24 --> 912.22] Thank you. -[912.24 --> 942.22] Thank you. -[942.24 --> 972.22] Thank you. -[972.24 --> 1002.22] Thank you. -[1002.24 --> 1032.22] Thank you. -[1032.24 --> 1062.22] Thank you. -[1062.24 --> 1092.22] Thank you. -[1092.24 --> 1122.22] Thank you. -[1122.24 --> 1152.22] Thank you. -[1152.24 --> 1182.22] Thank you. -[1182.24 --> 1212.22] Thank you. -[1212.24 --> 1242.22] Thank you. -[1242.24 --> 1272.22] Thank you. -[1272.22 --> 1302.20] Thank you. -[1302.22 --> 1332.20] Thank you. -[1332.20 --> 1362.18] Thank you. -[1362.20 --> 1392.18] Thank you. -[1392.20 --> 1422.18] Thank you. -[1422.18 --> 1452.16] Thank you. -[1452.16 --> 1482.14] This week. -[1482.16 --> 1512.14] Thank you. -[1512.14 --> 1542.12] Thank you. -[1542.12 --> 1572.12] Thank you. -[1572.12 --> 1602.12] Thank you. -[1602.12 --> 1632.10] Thank you. -[1632.10 --> 1662.10] Thank you. -[1662.10 --> 1692.08] Thank you. -[1692.10 --> 1722.08] Thank you. -[1722.10 --> 1752.08] Thank you. -[1752.08 --> 1782.06] Thank you. -[1782.08 --> 1812.06] Thank you. -[1812.06 --> 1842.04] Thank you. -[1842.06 --> 1872.04] Thank you. -[1872.06 --> 1902.04] Thank you. -[1902.06 --> 1932.04] Thank you. -[1932.06 --> 1962.04] Thank you. -[1962.06 --> 1992.04] Thank you. -[1992.06 --> 2022.04] Thank you. -[2022.04 --> 2052.02] Thank you. -[2052.04 --> 2082.02] Thank you. -[2082.04 --> 2112.02] Thank you. -[2112.04 --> 2142.02] Thank you. -[2142.04 --> 2172.02] Thank you. -[2172.04 --> 2202.02] Thank you. -[2202.02 --> 2232.00] Thank you. -[2232.00 --> 2261.98] Thank you. -[2261.98 --> 2291.98] Thank you. -[2292.00 --> 2321.96] Thank you. -[2321.96 --> 2351.94] Thank you. -[2351.96 --> 2381.94] Good morning, everyone. -[2381.94 --> 2411.94] Thank you. -[2411.94 --> 2441.94] Thank you. -[2441.94 --> 2471.94] Thank you. -[2471.94 --> 2501.94] Thank you. -[2501.94 --> 2531.94] Thank you. -[2531.94 --> 2561.94] Thank you. -[2561.94 --> 2591.92] Thank you. -[2591.94 --> 2621.94] Thank you. -[2621.94 --> 2651.94] Thank you. -[2651.94 --> 2681.94] Thank you. -[2681.94 --> 2711.94] We pray. -[2711.94 --> 2741.94] Thank you. -[2741.94 --> 2771.94] Thank you. -[2771.94 --> 2801.94] Thank you. -[2801.94 --> 2831.92] God bless you. -[2831.94 --> 2832.94] Thank you. -[2861.94 --> 2862.94] Thank you. -[2891.94 --> 2921.94] Thank you. -[2921.94 --> 2951.92] Thank you. -[2951.94 --> 2981.94] Thank you. -[2981.94 --> 3011.94] Thank you. -[3011.94 --> 3012.94] What's the point. -[3012.94 --> 3041.92] What's the point. -[3041.94 --> 3042.06] -[3071.94 --> 3075.22] when people say, you know, it just doesn't do anything for me. -[3077.18 --> 3080.80] And I think part of the reason I get frustrated with that is because I get it. -[3082.08 --> 3089.76] What is the point? Why are we here? Now, asking that question at a time like this is really -[3089.76 --> 3095.92] interesting, right? Because we've been in this last almost two years in this weird, -[3095.92 --> 3104.00] changing circumstances of ability to gather as worship because of COVID, right? And we've spent -[3104.00 --> 3113.74] time figuring out how to do worship well at home from our living rooms, on couches, or wherever you -[3113.74 --> 3121.44] held your phone and participated in the live stream. And for some of us, right, engaging in worship that -[3121.44 --> 3128.18] way was really, really hard, right? Almost impossible. And so, when we had the chance to -[3128.18 --> 3132.76] come back like this, we took it immediately, and we were here, and we were front row. Thanks, ladies. -[3137.04 --> 3145.18] For others of us, that experience of worship turned into a sort of apathy and laziness, and -[3145.18 --> 3148.34] I mean, I don't even have to say it because they're not listening. -[3148.34 --> 3154.82] But you know who they are, and you felt that temptation in your own life. -[3156.44 --> 3157.56] Why are we here? -[3159.96 --> 3165.86] I phrased that question by way of introduction to this message because I think, I mean, there's -[3165.86 --> 3172.10] multiple reasons, and many of them are good, some of them are less good, but there is one reason -[3172.10 --> 3179.84] why we are here, ultimately. And I think Isaiah is introducing us to that reason. -[3181.92 --> 3192.98] And so, this text from Isaiah in verse 4 through 9 of chapter 50 is the third of the Isaiah servant -[3192.98 --> 3201.56] songs. And so, there are four chapters or sections of Isaiah that are called the servant songs. -[3201.56 --> 3211.28] Isaiah 42 is one, Isaiah 49, 1 through 7 is one, here this text, and then Isaiah 53 is one. And they are -[3211.28 --> 3222.14] given to reveal the servant redeemer of God's chosen people, right? And he's revealed to us in these pages -[3222.14 --> 3229.22] as personally innocent, we see that in our text, but nonetheless willing to suffer pain and shame for the -[3229.22 --> 3236.24] people that he saves. And he's able to do this because his help, his vindication, his strength come -[3236.24 --> 3244.96] from above. So, as we dig into this text, we're going to structure it loosely around the name phrase -[3244.96 --> 3251.84] that's there. So, if you've got your Bibles open, you will see four times in these verses the name -[3251.84 --> 3259.72] phrase, sovereign Lord, is used. And then that name phrase isn't used in any of the other servant songs. -[3260.28 --> 3265.72] And so, I think it's fitting that we draw that out and highlight it here because that seems to be what Isaiah -[3265.72 --> 3273.70] wants us to do. We're going to use it as a guide then to understand who this servant is, how he changes our life -[3273.70 --> 3283.56] in the world through the word, and then why we are here today. Now, in the first place, the sovereign Lord, -[3283.74 --> 3292.50] we read, has given me a well-instructed tongue to know the word that sustains the weary. That little phrase, -[3292.78 --> 3300.50] well-instructed tongue, translates a Hebrew phrase. This was originally written in Hebrew. That means -[3300.50 --> 3309.06] a discipled tongue or a discipling tongue. It literally means a tongue that is taught. One -[3309.06 --> 3315.30] translator that I read this week suggested that we translate that instead of well-instructed, but as -[3315.30 --> 3323.32] a teacher's tongue, right? The servant has a teacher's tongue, or you might say a preacher's tongue -[3323.32 --> 3332.02] that gives life and not death. And the task of the servant really is a prophetic one because God -[3332.02 --> 3341.16] speaks life. God creates the world by speaking his word. His word brings life. In the most beautiful -[3341.16 --> 3347.84] illustration of this truth, you get the story out of Ezekiel 36 and 37. Maybe you're familiar with it. -[3347.84 --> 3354.36] Ezekiel is another prophet, and God takes him to this valley of dry bones, right, where an old army has -[3354.36 --> 3361.00] fallen down, and before him are just all countless skeletal corpses. And God says to Ezekiel, -[3361.30 --> 3369.80] Ezekiel, preach to these dry bones and they will live. And Ezekiel preaches, and the spirit wind blows, -[3370.10 --> 3376.08] and in this beautiful text, the joints start re-articulating together, and he preaches again, and sinew and -[3376.08 --> 3383.28] muscle forms, and he preaches, and the word of God, the breath of life goes into them. That's what God's -[3383.28 --> 3396.42] word does. Takes dead skeletal structures and brings them new life. And so here, the servant reveals God -[3396.42 --> 3404.86] by his word. He is the revealed word of God, right? You come to the servant, and you hear, and his word is -[3404.86 --> 3411.96] transformational. It is life-giving. Now, you can probably see where I'm going with this, right? -[3412.02 --> 3416.32] Because that probably sounds like someone, or at least part of your mind is tingling, or your heart -[3416.32 --> 3421.56] is stirring, because as I read that, that sounds a lot like Jesus, right? Jesus who preached, -[3421.56 --> 3433.04] come to me all who are weary, and I will give you rest. In fact, I think that this text here in Isaiah 50, -[3433.04 --> 3440.22] and perhaps even all the other servant songs in Isaiah, are what John has when he writes his gospel, -[3440.58 --> 3445.92] sort of in the back of his mind, right? I think it's that John has this language permeates throughout -[3445.92 --> 3453.36] his writing. And so maybe you remember John 1. John 1 begins, in the beginning was the word, and the word -[3453.36 --> 3461.16] was with God, and the word was God. And then in verse 14 of chapter 1, the word became flesh and made his -[3461.16 --> 3467.92] dwelling among us. And then John 5 verse 24 says, very truly I tell you, this is Jesus speaking, -[3468.32 --> 3474.22] whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged, but has -[3474.22 --> 3484.92] crossed over from death to life. The word of Jesus transforms you from death to life. John 6, 63, -[3484.92 --> 3493.32] the words I have spoken to you, they are full of spirit and life. Peter cries out in John 6, 68, -[3493.44 --> 3502.62] Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. God sends his word to bring life to -[3502.62 --> 3511.00] the world, a life of rest for the weary, an eternal life full of the spirit that comes by the word, -[3511.00 --> 3520.52] right? That's the servant and his responsibility in the prophet Isaiah, and that is Jesus and his work -[3520.52 --> 3530.48] in the history of redemption. And I think that we can use a goodly and a godly reminder of that -[3530.48 --> 3540.24] right now. Jesus is still speaking to his church, and the way that he does that primarily, ordinarily, -[3540.24 --> 3548.70] is through the word and through the sacrament. In traditional theology, we talk about the preached -[3548.70 --> 3555.82] word and the sacrament as the ordinary means of grace. And that's not to say that they are -[3555.82 --> 3561.68] anything less than supernatural, that is to say that this is the regular way that God communicates to us, -[3561.80 --> 3569.34] and we need to be reminded of that, because some of us have let our faith grow cold. Some of us have -[3569.34 --> 3583.96] found apathy more familiar than vitality. The word and the sacrament bring life, and so come and hear -[3583.96 --> 3590.90] and see and taste and know this newness of life that God has for you. -[3590.90 --> 3604.00] See, the servant is helping us to see what we can't do, but still try and do, and that's why we feel so -[3604.00 --> 3611.52] tired or weary or beat down. We are blind to the truth, and then we live out of that blindness. -[3612.36 --> 3619.74] We are captive to our own efforts at self-justification, and we are trapped in prisons of our own making, -[3619.74 --> 3626.00] whether it's the stockade of religiosity as we strive to earn God's favor, or it's the chains of -[3626.00 --> 3632.30] irreligion as we try to cast off any claim to the divine or any claim the divine has on us. -[3632.60 --> 3640.84] We are bound in our sinfulness to a path that goes nowhere, but neither of these are the rest and the -[3640.84 --> 3652.74] freedom that God has designed for us. In the gospel of Luke, Jesus begins his ministry by preaching, -[3653.74 --> 3660.56] and the words then speaks a word, and he says, and we already read it actually in our litany earlier, -[3661.10 --> 3666.66] the spirit of the Lord is on me because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. -[3666.66 --> 3672.00] He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, -[3672.12 --> 3680.72] to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor. The servant is your hope because -[3680.72 --> 3687.80] he is something new, he is something different, he is something you can't do and yet try over and over -[3687.80 --> 3697.40] and over again. That's the one thing about that phrase, the sovereign Lord, right, and Isaiah repeating -[3697.40 --> 3705.40] it, is that the servant is your hope because he is one with the sovereign Lord, right? The servant of -[3705.40 --> 3714.30] Isaiah 42 and 49, 50 and 53 is ultimately familiar with the sovereign Lord, that is maximally familiar -[3714.30 --> 3725.42] with the sovereign Lord as a father and son. The servant is the agent of the sovereign, the son is the voice of the father. -[3729.42 --> 3738.64] Verse 4 and 5 are giving us a glimpse or a window into the relationship between the servant -[3738.64 --> 3744.44] and the sovereign, between the sovereign, between the father and the son. We read, -[3744.78 --> 3750.62] he wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed. -[3752.32 --> 3757.98] And if you are familiar with the story of Jesus, you know that already at 12 years old, -[3758.22 --> 3764.70] everyone was amazed at his understanding, everyone was amazed at the kinds of questions he asked, -[3764.70 --> 3768.94] even as he was found in the temple. And he said, when he was found in the temple, -[3769.18 --> 3775.60] did you not know I had to be, had to be in my father's house? Right, Luke tells us in that same -[3775.60 --> 3783.18] text that Jesus grew in wisdom and stature. Hebrews 5 verse 8 says that he learned obedience. -[3784.62 --> 3792.86] Right, you see it here. What we get in the gospels and the story of Jesus is what Isaiah said we would get -[3792.86 --> 3804.28] with the servant in verse 4 and 5. But it goes even further. The sovereign Lord has opened my ears. -[3804.46 --> 3811.98] He has made me learn. He's learned obedience. And I've heard this teaching and I pass it on to you, -[3812.70 --> 3820.62] says the servant. And get this, this is exactly what Jesus says in John 12. John 12, Jesus says, -[3820.62 --> 3826.86] for I did not speak on my own, but the father who sent me commanded me to say all that I have spoken. -[3827.54 --> 3835.04] I know that his commands lead to eternal life. So whatever I say is just what the father has told me to say. -[3835.60 --> 3842.50] The words of the servant are the very same words of the sovereign Lord because they are one and the same. -[3842.50 --> 3852.44] And it goes deeper still. Right, in Hebrew, again, the language of Isaiah, to hear is to obey. -[3853.58 --> 3861.20] Right, they're almost used interchangeably. And to say, I heard you, is to say, I obey you. -[3861.96 --> 3869.76] To say, you didn't hear me, is to say, you disobeyed me. I gotta tell you, I wish for my kids -[3869.76 --> 3875.54] that hear meant obey as well. Because I don't know how many times I've told, hey, did you clean your -[3875.54 --> 3881.42] room? I heard you, dad. I don't care if you heard me. I cared if you did it. But in Hebrew, they are the -[3881.42 --> 3888.82] same. To hear is to obey. And so when the servant points out that, and the point of the servant hearing -[3888.82 --> 3897.20] then is that the servant has obeyed. Hearing, being obeying, makes sense of that last line in verse 5. -[3897.20 --> 3903.42] Right, where the servant says, I have not been rebellious. I have not turned away. Because throughout -[3903.42 --> 3909.70] the entire Old Testament, people are instructed over and over again to be careful to do what the Lord -[3909.70 --> 3916.90] your God has commanded you. Do not turn to the left or to the right. Right, Proverbs 4, 27 says, do not -[3916.90 --> 3925.40] turn to the right or to the left. Keep your foot from evil. And yet, what we also know from Romans 3, -[3925.40 --> 3930.76] for instance, is that there is no one righteous, not even one. There is no one who understands, no one -[3930.76 --> 3937.44] who seeks God. All have turned away. They together have become worthless. There is no one who does good, -[3937.72 --> 3944.84] not even one. Right, the surface narrative of the Old Testament is Israel failing to stay on that -[3944.84 --> 3949.50] straight and narrow. Is Israel failing to not turn to the left or to the right, but to going left and to -[3949.50 --> 3954.54] going right and to going further left and further right. Right, the men and the women of the Old Testament -[3954.54 --> 3961.10] prove the point. And to be frank with you, right, my own life, my own struggle to obedience, to really -[3961.10 --> 3969.28] hear the voice of God, proves the point. From the beginning, all of history proves Romans 3, 23 true -[3969.28 --> 3977.02] when it says, all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. What we need, we can't do, but the -[3977.02 --> 3984.10] servant does. I have not been rebellious. I have not turned away. The servant is Jesus. Jesus hears, -[3984.10 --> 3993.00] and obeys. In 1 John 2, Jesus is called the righteous one. And so, if the surface narrative of the -[3993.00 --> 4000.50] Old Testament tells one story, our story of inability, the deeper narrative of the Old Testament tells -[4000.50 --> 4008.90] God's gospel story. From the very beginning, the servant is being revealed. Right, God creates sons -[4008.90 --> 4015.12] and daughters in Adam and Eve, and all sons and daughters fall into sin because of their rebellion. -[4015.24 --> 4021.54] But God promises in that moment a true and better son who will crush the head of the serpent and who -[4021.54 --> 4030.22] will restore us to the Father. For just as disobedience of one man brought the many, the many were made -[4030.22 --> 4038.96] sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man, the many will be made righteous. This is the servant. -[4040.14 --> 4048.30] Jesus hears and obeys. The life I should have lived, but daily prove that I can't. He lives in perfect -[4048.30 --> 4055.68] obedience. The death that I deserve, He bears. Right, for just as through the disobedience of the one man, the many were made -[4055.68 --> 4063.76] sinners. So also through the obedience of the one man, the many will be made righteous. This is the servant. -[4065.84 --> 4074.44] And this is what He done, what He has done. But how? How did He do it? -[4074.44 --> 4085.94] I offered my back to those who beat me, my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard. I did not hide my face -[4085.94 --> 4096.10] from mocking and spitting. Mark 10, Jesus tells His disciples, we are going to Jerusalem, and the Son of -[4096.10 --> 4101.64] Man will be delivered. And Jesus says this, they will condemn Him to death and hand Him over. They will mock -[4101.64 --> 4114.64] Him and spit on Him, flog Him, and kill Him. The suffering servant is the suffering Savior, and He suffers -[4114.64 --> 4123.48] for you. I hear that this morning, if you hear anything from me. Jesus suffered and died for you. -[4124.62 --> 4130.90] It doesn't matter what your sins are, His death washes over them. Even when you don't really believe that to -[4130.90 --> 4139.70] be true, it is true. Even when you feel unworthy or unloved, His love is greater, and His love is for you. -[4141.46 --> 4149.34] Even if it seems like chaos and everything is out of control, remember the deeper narrative of God's -[4149.34 --> 4159.70] gospel story. And here's the thing, I can't remember that on my own, right? I forget the love of God for me, -[4159.70 --> 4169.84] right? And apart from hearing Him, I can't obey. And I'm sure that I'm not alone in that. -[4171.24 --> 4181.04] We come here every week to hear the voice of Jesus. We come here every week, hopefully not because the -[4181.04 --> 4186.48] kids' programs will give you a break, though I hope it does do that. Right? We come here every week not -[4186.48 --> 4192.20] only because we are alone throughout the week or we need a deep experience of community, though I pray -[4192.20 --> 4197.78] that we are that for everyone. We come here not because you're looking for a boyfriend or a -[4197.78 --> 4203.26] girlfriend and the church is a good place for that, maybe the best place for that. And if that's what -[4203.26 --> 4208.78] God has in store for you, I hope you find that. We come here not because the speaker is moderately okay -[4208.78 --> 4216.52] and the worship is great. We come here because here you hear Jesus. -[4218.60 --> 4224.78] And when we forget that His grace is greater than all my sins, when we forget that we are lavishly -[4224.78 --> 4231.46] loved children of the Father, when we forget that God is in control, not my fears, not my anxieties, -[4231.46 --> 4239.78] we need to come here to the Word and to the table so we can be reminded. We come here for a Word from the -[4239.78 --> 4249.16] Word that sustains the weary. When we are close to giving up, we have to come to the servant who never -[4249.16 --> 4258.34] gives up. Because the sovereign Lord helps me, I will not be disgraced. Now hear this, -[4258.34 --> 4267.82] therefore I have set my face like flint and I know I will not be put to shame. -[4269.48 --> 4278.52] This is the hard face of Jesus. This is His devotion, His commitment, His unflinching, -[4278.80 --> 4285.26] enduring for the path that was set before Him. Right? Even when He prayed, Father, if at all possible, -[4285.26 --> 4293.20] remove this cup from me, He said, yet not my will be done but Yours. And He walked to that cross -[4293.20 --> 4306.10] thinking of you and me and you. This is who we come to hear from. Right? Jesus endured. He didn't give up. -[4306.10 --> 4314.34] Jesus endured. And He will not leave you behind. He will cause you to endure. He won't give up on you. -[4315.76 --> 4323.16] And because Jesus won't give up on you, neither will I. Because Jesus won't give up on you, neither will we. -[4323.84 --> 4333.30] But we will come together to come to Jesus. When our sins testify against us, when our life tells us -[4333.30 --> 4341.32] a false story, when the promises of the world fail, our only comfort is to look to the suffering servant, -[4341.46 --> 4347.72] who, though innocent, was stricken on our behalf. Even though He was just and pure, He bore the weight -[4347.72 --> 4356.74] of our injustice. He took our condemnation to give you new life. That is why we are here. -[4356.74 --> 4368.78] All I have is Christ. Hallelujah. All I have is Christ. I'm going to ask you to stand. -[4370.06 --> 4376.76] For our prayer, I'm going to read a text over you. While we are reading this text team, worship team, -[4376.80 --> 4380.82] I want you to come up here so that we can jump right into the song immediately following you. -[4380.82 --> 4390.84] We will take that as our prayer. All I have is Christ. What then shall we say in response to -[4390.84 --> 4399.14] these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but gave Him -[4399.14 --> 4406.06] up for us all, how will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring -[4406.06 --> 4413.32] any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? -[4413.82 --> 4419.72] No one. Christ Jesus, who died more than that, who was raised to life, is at the right hand of God and -[4419.72 --> 4428.40] is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or -[4428.40 --> 4436.36] persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written, for your sake we face death -[4436.36 --> 4443.46] all day long. We are considered as sheep to be slaughtered. But no, in all these things we are -[4443.46 --> 4450.68] more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither -[4450.68 --> 4455.42] angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, -[4455.42 --> 4461.58] nor anything else, in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus -[4461.58 --> 4468.88] our Lord. All I have is Christ. Amen. -[4468.88 --> 4468.98] Amen. -[4468.98 --> 4470.98] Hallelujah. -[4474.98 --> 4479.38] Hallelujah. -[4479.38 --> 4501.34] All I have is Christ. Hallelujah. All I have is Christ. Hallelujah. Jesus is my Lord. -[4501.34 --> 4520.24] I once was lost in the darkest night, yet thought I knew the way. The sin that promised joy and light -[4520.24 --> 4531.32] had led me to the grave. I had no hope that you would have been to the grave. I had no hope that you would have been to the grave. -[4531.32 --> 4539.52] digo to Jesus built on us when you would have void in the grave. I was not a rebel to be LORD -[4539.52 --> 4554.14] And if you had not love me first, I would refuse you still own will soon have agreed to face -[4554.14 --> 4558.56] But as I ran, I have a grace to live enough's life of mine. And if you would burn upon us at a stone, thank you should have fought well -[4558.56 --> 4567.16] I have a grace indifferent to the cross. -[4567.16 --> 4579.52] You looked upon my helpless state and led me to the cross. -[4579.98 --> 4585.04] And I beheld God's love displayed. -[4585.04 --> 4591.56] You suffered in my face. -[4591.56 --> 4597.56] You bore the wrath of Christ upon me. -[4598.08 --> 4606.42] Now all I know is grace. -[4606.42 --> 4611.94] Hallelujah. -[4611.94 --> 4618.74] All my hand is Christ. -[4618.74 --> 4623.94] Hallelujah. -[4623.94 --> 4630.96] Jesus is my life. -[4630.96 --> 4635.90] Hallelujah. -[4635.90 --> 4642.92] All I have is Christ. -[4642.92 --> 4646.44] Hallelujah. -[4646.44 --> 4648.44] Hallelujah. -[4648.44 --> 4655.44] Jesus is my life. -[4655.44 --> 4662.96] Now Lord, I would be yours someday. -[4662.96 --> 4669.48] And live so long I see. -[4669.48 --> 4681.48] The strength to follow your commands could never come from me. -[4681.48 --> 4693.88] Oh, Father, you choose my handsome life in any way you choose. -[4693.88 --> 4706.00] And let my soul forever be my only hope still to. -[4706.00 --> 4708.00] Hallelujah. -[4708.00 --> 4709.00] Hallelujah. -[4709.00 --> 4711.00] Hallelujah. -[4711.00 --> 4713.00] Hallelujah. -[4713.00 --> 4715.00] Hallelujah. -[4715.00 --> 4720.60] All I have is Christ. -[4720.60 --> 4722.52] Hallelujah. -[4722.52 --> 4724.52] Hallelujah. -[4724.52 --> 4732.52] Jesus is my life. -[4732.52 --> 4733.52] Hallelujah. -[4733.52 --> 4734.52] Hallelujah. -[4734.52 --> 4735.52] Hallelujah. -[4735.52 --> 4736.52] Hallelujah. -[4736.52 --> 4737.52] Hallelujah. -[4737.52 --> 4738.52] Hallelujah. -[4738.52 --> 4743.52] All I have is Christ. -[4743.52 --> 4748.52] Hallelujah. -[4748.52 --> 4753.52] Jesus is my life. -[4753.52 --> 4754.52] Hallelujah. -[4754.52 --> 4776.52] Jesus is my life. -[4776.52 --> 4777.96] Hallelujah. -[4777.96 --> 4778.62] Hallelujah. -[4778.62 --> 4779.40] Hallelujah. -[4779.40 --> 4783.88] Hallelujah. -[4783.88 --> 4790.92] Have a seat. We come to the table of our Lord. -[4793.36 --> 4799.32] Here we are reminded what the suffering servant has done. -[4800.04 --> 4807.02] Here we are invited to remember, but not only as a passive act of the mind, -[4807.02 --> 4818.66] but as an act of God to your heart that would sign and seal your faith and your experience of him. -[4819.62 --> 4823.72] As we come to the table, we will invite you to participate with the liturgy, -[4824.44 --> 4829.54] and then we will have the elders come forward and they will serve you in your seats together. -[4830.90 --> 4835.52] At his last supper, our Lord Jesus took bread, -[4835.52 --> 4840.94] and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, -[4841.34 --> 4844.82] This is my body, which is for you. -[4845.80 --> 4848.64] Do this in remembrance of me. -[4850.16 --> 4854.30] In the same way, he took the cup after supper, -[4854.90 --> 4859.54] and he said, This cup is the new covenant in my blood. -[4860.40 --> 4863.68] Do this in remembrance of me. -[4863.68 --> 4867.54] For whenever we eat this bread and drink this cup, -[4867.66 --> 4872.82] we proclaim the Lord's death and resurrection until he comes again. -[4873.76 --> 4881.06] Therefore, we proclaim our faith as signed and sealed in this sacrament. -[4881.06 --> 4895.26] Church family, the Lord has prepared his table for all who love him, -[4895.56 --> 4898.70] for all who trust in him alone for their salvation. -[4899.42 --> 4901.42] If you are truly sorry for your sins, -[4901.48 --> 4904.76] if you sincerely believe in the Lord Jesus as your Savior, -[4904.88 --> 4907.38] and you desire to live in obedience to him, -[4907.38 --> 4910.56] whether you are here in this sanctuary together, -[4910.68 --> 4914.30] or participating at home, part of our community online, -[4914.36 --> 4919.30] you are invited to come with gladness to the table of our Lord. -[4920.12 --> 4923.96] The gifts of God for the people of God. -[4924.70 --> 4926.08] I'd like to invite the elders forward. -[4926.08 --> 4939.20] Joseph document a ropeack and hand in thanks. -[4939.20 --> 4941.20] Amen. -[4969.20 --> 4984.74] Holy, Lord, God Almighty, early in the morning, our song shall rise to thee. -[4984.74 --> 5005.26] Holy, Holy, Holy, merciful and mighty, our victory, present blessed Trinity. -[5005.26 --> 5028.26] Holy, Holy, Holy, all the saints are holy, passing down their golden cross upon the blessed sea. -[5028.26 --> 5040.24] Share them and send them, falling down before thee. -[5040.90 --> 5051.12] Who are them all, and their turn more shall be. -[5051.12 --> 5074.12] Holy, Holy, Holy, though the darkness hide thee, though thee are made blind by sin, thy glory may not see. -[5074.12 --> 5087.12] Only thou art holy, there is none beside thee. -[5088.26 --> 5097.76] Perfect in power in love and purity. -[5097.76 --> 5099.76] Perfect in power in love and purity. -[5099.76 --> 5100.76] Perfect in power in peace. -[5100.76 --> 5112.76] Perfect in power in glory, O Lord, God Almighty, Lord, God Almighty. -[5112.76 --> 5118.76] Perfect in power in power in glory, O Lord, God, every joy shall rise to thee. -[5118.76 --> 5132.98] His flag is shining -[5132.98 --> 5140.32] in your handparent as I see -[5140.32 --> 5142.12] Holy, holy, holy -[5142.12 --> 5153.36] Lord, healing, our Son, blessed Trinity. -[5164.04 --> 5169.28] Of the suffering servant, this is the body of Christ broken for you. -[5169.28 --> 5178.18] And so take, eat, remember, and believe that the body of Christ was given for the complete forgiveness of all our sins. -[5199.28 --> 5201.28] Amen. -[5201.28 --> 5202.28] Amen. -[5202.28 --> 5203.28] Amen. -[5203.28 --> 5204.28] Amen. -[5204.28 --> 5207.28] Amen. -[5207.28 --> 5209.28] Amen. -[5209.28 --> 5229.70] Here is love vast as the ocean -[5229.70 --> 5235.16] Loving kindness as the cloud -[5235.16 --> 5239.56] When the Prince of life our ransom -[5239.56 --> 5245.50] Shed for us His precious blood -[5245.50 --> 5253.06] Here is love vast as the ocean -[5253.06 --> 5258.20] Loving kindness as the cloud -[5258.20 --> 5262.80] When the Prince of life our ransom -[5262.80 --> 5268.62] Shed for us His precious blood -[5268.62 --> 5273.20] Who His love will not remember -[5273.20 --> 5279.28] Who can cease to sing His praise -[5279.28 --> 5283.78] He can never be forgotten -[5283.78 --> 5289.50] Throughout death's eternal day -[5289.50 --> 5297.60] On the mount of grace and fiction -[5297.60 --> 5303.44] Fountains open deep and wide -[5303.44 --> 5308.32] Through the floodgates of God's mercy -[5308.32 --> 5314.26] Float a vast and gracious tide -[5314.26 --> 5320.08] Grace and love thy mighty river -[5320.08 --> 5324.66] Born incessant from above -[5324.66 --> 5330.56] Heaven's peace and perfect justice -[5330.56 --> 5336.38] Kiss the guilty world in love -[5336.38 --> 5340.96] Who His love will not remember -[5340.96 --> 5346.86] Who can cease to sing His praise -[5346.86 --> 5351.66] He can never be forgotten -[5351.66 --> 5357.48] Throughout death's eternal day -[5357.48 --> 5362.66] Who His love will not remember -[5362.66 --> 5368.48] Who can cease to sing His praise -[5368.48 --> 5374.30] He can never be forgotten -[5374.30 --> 5380.48] Throughout death's eternal day -[5380.48 --> 5382.08] Love of Christ's ship -[5382.08 --> 5402.48] Brothers and sisters -[5402.48 --> 5406.02] Children of our sovereign Lord -[5406.02 --> 5407.68] Lord lavishly loved -[5407.68 --> 5408.82] Love of the Father in heaven -[5408.82 --> 5411.10] This is the blood of Christ -[5411.10 --> 5412.74] Shed for you -[5412.74 --> 5416.82] Take, drink, remember and believe -[5416.82 --> 5417.76] That the precious blood -[5417.76 --> 5418.88] Of our Lord Jesus Christ -[5418.88 --> 5420.78] Was shed for the complete forgiveness -[5420.78 --> 5423.20] Of all our sins -[5423.20 --> 5434.28] Amen -[5434.28 --> 5437.56] As you're able -[5437.56 --> 5438.82] I'm going to invite you to stand -[5438.82 --> 5441.08] And I will conclude our experience -[5441.08 --> 5442.40] Here at the table with a prayer -[5442.40 --> 5445.58] And then we will finish -[5445.58 --> 5449.62] With our parting blessing -[5449.62 --> 5455.66] Loving God -[5455.66 --> 5458.92] We thank you that you have fed us -[5458.92 --> 5460.82] In this sacrament -[5460.82 --> 5463.46] That at this table -[5463.46 --> 5466.26] You have united us with Christ -[5466.26 --> 5469.22] You have united us with one another -[5469.22 --> 5472.28] And that here we have a foretaste -[5472.28 --> 5473.40] Of the heavenly banquet -[5473.40 --> 5475.72] In your eternal kingdom to come -[5475.72 --> 5478.70] Send us out now -[5478.70 --> 5480.42] In the power of your spirit -[5480.42 --> 5482.08] To live and to work -[5482.08 --> 5485.26] To your praise and glory -[5485.26 --> 5488.74] For Jesus' sake we pray -[5488.74 --> 5490.22] Amen -[5490.22 --> 5496.40] Family of God -[5496.40 --> 5499.70] From our table to your tables -[5499.70 --> 5502.76] Go with the blessing of God -[5502.76 --> 5505.52] May God go before you -[5505.52 --> 5506.68] To guide you -[5506.68 --> 5508.58] May God go behind you -[5508.58 --> 5509.62] To protect you -[5509.62 --> 5511.34] May God go beneath you -[5511.34 --> 5512.24] To support you -[5512.24 --> 5514.00] And may God go beside you -[5514.00 --> 5515.06] To befriend you -[5515.06 --> 5517.02] Do not be afraid -[5517.02 --> 5518.88] Let the blessing of God -[5518.88 --> 5519.86] Come upon you today -[5519.86 --> 5521.80] Do not be afraid -[5521.80 --> 5524.44] But go in peace -[5524.44 --> 5527.42] To love and serve the Lord -[5527.42 --> 5528.94] Everyone said -[5528.94 --> 5530.32] Amen -[5530.32 --> 5553.98] Then of faith rise up and sing -[5553.98 --> 5558.46] Of the great and glorious King -[5558.46 --> 5562.80] You are strong when you feel weak -[5562.80 --> 5567.30] In your brokenness complete -[5567.30 --> 5568.24] Give me -[5568.24 --> 5572.20] If we shout to you -[5572.20 --> 5594.54] No part of tua -[5594.54 --> 5597.28] Till broken hearts -[5597.28 --> 5601.68] You can know the healing blood -[5601.68 --> 5607.16] Of the lost and big of the world -[5607.16 --> 5613.14] He shone to the earth and the sun -[5613.14 --> 5617.52] Sing to the east and the west -[5617.52 --> 5622.02] Jesus is singing to all -[5622.02 --> 5625.72] Lord of heaven and earth -[5625.72 --> 5630.84] We've been through fire -[5630.84 --> 5632.90] We've been through rain -[5632.90 --> 5637.38] We've been required by the cloud of His name -[5637.38 --> 5641.64] We've fallen deeper in love with You -[5641.64 --> 5647.44] You burn the truth on our land -[5647.44 --> 5652.56] Shout to the north and the south -[5652.56 --> 5656.92] Sing to the east and the west -[5656.92 --> 5661.44] Jesus is Savior to all -[5661.44 --> 5665.14] Lord of heaven and earth -[5665.14 --> 5671.92] Rise up church with broken wings -[5671.92 --> 5676.36] Fill this place with songs again -[5676.36 --> 5680.94] Of our God who reigns on high -[5680.94 --> 5685.42] By His grace again we'll fly -[5685.42 --> 5692.42] Shout to the north and the south -[5692.42 --> 5696.92] Sing to the east and the west -[5696.92 --> 5701.42] Jesus is Savior to all -[5701.42 --> 5705.62] Lord of heaven and earth -[5705.62 --> 5710.24] Shout to the north and the south -[5710.24 --> 5714.72] Sing to the east and the west -[5714.72 --> 5719.28] Jesus is Savior to all -[5719.28 --> 5724.42] His light on the earth and earth -[5724.42 --> 5730.04] man of heaven and earth -[5730.04 --> 5732.16] Hurricane from his friends -[5732.16 --> 5735.92] Arbeits wild -[5735.92 --> 5765.90] Thank you. -[5765.92 --> 5795.90] Thank you. -[5795.92 --> 5825.90] Thank you. -[5825.92 --> 5855.90] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 17, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 17, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 257e33c572b76b3e82b5f71f81299494e4e4267e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 17, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,149 +0,0 @@ -• Lord's Supper celebration -• Ministry and mission year kickoff -• Worship service announcements -• Upcoming events: ministry and mission table meeting, deacons' meeting, ministry and mission fair, Sing a New Song worship concert -• Meetings for specific groups: - + Grade eights and parents with Pastor Kevin - + Care and connection group for Ellen White - + GEMS girls group counselor recruitment -• Inviting congregation to stand together in God's presence -• Greeting and worshiping God -• Inviting congregation to greet each other -• Worshiping in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit -• Singing hymns and praising God -• Encouraging unity and joy among believers -• Living a worthy life according to God's will -• Unity and maturity in faith, knowledge, and love -• Avoiding false teachings and deceitful scheming -• Growing into the mature body of Christ through truth and love -• Prayer for forgiveness, guidance, and revival -• Calling on God to restore the church and bring hearts back to Him -• Repentance and mercy -• Cleansing and joy in faith -• Thirst for restoration of the church -• Spiritual revival in the nation -• Breathe on us again, spiritual awakening -• Almost home, near to promised land -• No stopping now, journey almost over -• Bringing out our souls, kingdom grown -• No turning back, almost home repeatedly -• Journey together, doom and great forever -• Some will sing at the happy throne -• Life is a journey, take courage for darkness -• Jesus says "Peace be with you" and "I am sending you" -• A photo of Kev at a youth event is shown, and he is remembered as being part of the church for 15 years -• The pastor reflects on how much Kev has grown and been involved in the church's ministry -• The congregation is encouraged to share words of appreciation or memories of Kev -• A prayer is offered for Kev and his family -• A prayer is said for Kevin, Nikki, and their family -• A special gift is given to the congregation -• A children's blessing takes place, involving kids saying "The Lord be with you" and adults responding with "And also with you" -• Paul, an elder at Emmanuel Church, gives notes from a council meeting, mentioning: - • The first full council meeting of the season took place - • Strategic thinking for the church's future was discussed - • Classes is coming up on October 17-18 at Willoughby Church - • An abuse awareness and prevention policy was approved for implementation - • Reactivate was a successful event, with plans to hold it again next year - • A multi-church leadership training event took place at New Life Church in Abbotsford -• The speaker discusses a prayer time where they express gratitude and ask for God's guidance and blessings. -• They pray for specific individuals and families who are going through difficulties and seeking comfort and healing. -• The speaker announces that the church will be reflecting on its identity and purpose over the next year, using Philippians 1:27-30 as a guiding text. -• He mentions that community and life together events are a priority for the church. -• The importance of community and shared life in the church -• The church's mission statement: gather, grow, go -• The meaning of gather, grow, go as guiding principles for the focus of the church's work -• The concept of collective shared life: coming together with one spirit, as one body, in faith and gospel -• The Bible's emphasis on the church being a collective community (e.g. 1 Corinthians 12:12-31) -• The importance of gathering not just for worship on Sundays, but also throughout the week through various activities -• The importance of community within the church -• The idea that the church provides a sense of belonging and connection even when moving to a new place -• The value of unity and shared life among church members despite differences -• The role of shared life in witnessing to Christ to those who do not know him -• The extension of shared life beyond the church community, including connections with unbelieving friends and neighbors -• Difficulty sharing life with neighbors in a suburban community -• Comparison of living in St. Catharines (downtown, close-knit) vs. Murrayville (suburban, commuter-oriented) -• Challenges of building relationships in a neighborhood where people keep to themselves -• Sharing personal experience with an 8-year-old son making friends and gathering a group of boys -• Proposing "micro-experiments" to learn how to build shared life together in neighborhoods and communities -• The concept of shared life in the church -• Contrasting Christian lives with the world -• Being "strange" or "peculiar" as a result of following Jesus -• The importance of standing out in a positive way for God's glory -• Embracing being different and inspirational as Christians -• Avoiding sinful desires and living good lives among non-believers -• Christians living a contrastive life in the world -• Sexual abstinence and purity as a contrast to modern culture -• Generosity and not accumulating wealth as a contrast to consumerism -• Living in intentional diversity and multicultural realities -• Practicing Sabbath as a contrast to idolizing busyness -• Prioritizing community over individual pursuits -• Living a contrastive life -• Being convicting to others and oneself -• God's design and plan for lives -• Choice between following God or not -• Contrastive lives as examples of faith -• Shared, collective life together in faith -• Conducting oneself worthy of the gospel of Christ -• The concept of being "called out" or summoned is central to the identity of the church -• The word "church" originates from the Greek word "ekklesia", meaning "called out" -• Being called out or summoned means being sent, and is a fundamental aspect of Christianity -• The church's mission and purpose are rooted in witness to God and what Jesus has done -• Every individual within the church is considered sent, and this is foundational to the church's identity -• The concept of being sent with a message or identity -• Experiments and micro-experiments to understand living into this shared life together -• Collective, contrastive, and called out nature of shared life -• Conducting oneself in a manner worthy of the gospel -• Being part of something compelling when individuals conduct themselves worthily -• The importance of being unafraid to follow one's calling -• Citing Bible verses (Matthew 5:16 and 1 Peter) to illustrate the value of living good lives and glorifying God -• The impact of doing good deeds on others and the world around us -• The church's long history of testifying to these principles across generations and millennia -• Warning about returning themes and challenges, and the need for careful listening -• Discussion of the Roman pantheon and its influence on the empire -• Comparison between pagan virtues and Christian practices -• The concept of benevolence, care for graves, and pretended holiness as virtues attributed to Christians by a pagan high priest -• The Roman label of Christianity as "atheism" due to worshiping one God -• A call to practice virtues such as benevolence, care for the dead, and pretended holiness in order to draw people into who Jesus is -• Reflection on the importance of embodying Christian virtues in daily life -• Living lives that demand a gospel explanation -• Goal for the next year is to live in such a way that it demands a gospel explanation no matter where they are -• Encouraging people to follow and lead in this direction, standing out to call others towards where God has called them -• Introducing an initiative to remind of shared life and witness through liturgical arts -• Meeting someone at a place you frequent -• Mission field is wherever you spend your time -• Gathering, growing, and going in that place -• Pictures of mission fields to be submitted -• Displaying pictures with the mission statement "gather, grow, go" on them -• Witnessing in shared life where you are -• Discussing upcoming installation and reminders about picture submissions -• Symbolism of the shared life table in community gatherings -• Inspiring others to reveal Christ through daily actions -• Prayer for building up the community, drawing closer to God, and being a witness to the world -• Requesting use as instruments to show God's presence to others -• Prayers to Jesus for guidance and power -• Requests for God's kingdom to be built on earth -• Praise and thanksgiving for creation and redemption through Christ -• Invitation to participate in a liturgy or ritual at the table of the Lord -• Communion or Eucharist celebration with remembrance of Christ's sacrifice -• Invitation to come to the table for Communion, regardless of faith or previous attendance -• Instructions on how to participate in Communion: passing elements and saying specific phrases -• Option for those unable to come forward to receive Communion from elders -• Availability of prayer services before or after Communion -• Worship team and elders participating in Communion service -• Musical elements throughout the service -• The promise of forgiveness through faith in Jesus Christ -• The sacrifice of Jesus Christ and its significance -• Sharing in the bread of life and dreaming of Jesus' sacrifice -• The body of Christ as a symbol of unity and peace -• The blood of God that cleanses every saint -• Receiving the life of God through faith -• Responding with thankfulness and faith to the promise of forgiveness -• Following in the steps of Christ as His body on earth -• Proclaiming Christ will come again and join in the feast of bread -• Jesus' name and attributes (Messiah, Lord of all, Blessed Redeemer) -• Love and mercy for sinners -• The power of God's name and blessing -• Being sent by God through the gospel and in the power of the Holy Spirit -• Protection, support, and guidance from God -• Encouragement to go in peace and serve the Lord -• Invitation to join hands in prayer and declaration of faith \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 17, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 17, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 781f71a4fa8be28c892af28e319a956083a57d49..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 17, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2528 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 7.00] Great I am -[7.00 --> 14.00] Great I am -[14.00 --> 20.00] Great I am -[30.00 --> 36.00] It was a good moderation -[36.00 --> 43.00] Notice how the哪 borrow? -[43.00 --> 47.00] It is a good clarity -[47.00 --> 53.00] What time do you mean theners for coming from last day? -[53.00 --> 56.00] I have taken care of -[56.00 --> 65.10] The one who pledged to save me and walk with him for all eternity. -[68.90 --> 75.50] There will be a day when all will bow before him. -[75.50 --> 82.20] There will be a day when death will be no more. -[82.20 --> 90.20] Standing face to face with he who died and rose again. -[90.20 --> 95.20] Holy, holy is the Lord. -[99.20 --> 105.20] And every prayer we prayed in desperation. -[105.20 --> 111.20] The songs of faith we sang through doubt and fear. -[112.20 --> 118.20] In the end, we'll see that it was worth it. -[118.20 --> 125.20] When he returns to wipe away our tears. -[125.20 --> 135.20] There will be a day when all will bow before him. -[135.20 --> 141.20] There will be a day when death will be no more. -[141.20 --> 149.20] Standing face to face with he who died and rose again. -[149.20 --> 155.20] Holy, holy is the Lord. -[155.20 --> 165.20] And on that day, join the resurrection. -[165.20 --> 171.20] And stand beside the heroes of the faith. -[171.20 --> 179.20] With one voice, a thousand generations. -[179.20 --> 185.20] Seeing the holy is the Lamb who was slain. -[185.20 --> 191.72] Forever ye shall reign -[191.72 --> 196.76] So let it be today -[196.76 --> 200.02] We shall be in the city -[200.02 --> 202.46] With angels' kingdom -[202.46 --> 206.38] Good morning. -[207.38 --> 209.64] You guys are very chatty this morning. -[209.76 --> 210.86] I love this energy. -[212.16 --> 214.14] Welcome to worship. -[214.14 --> 218.38] A special welcome if you are here visiting with us this morning. -[218.54 --> 220.54] We are very excited that you are here. -[220.66 --> 223.76] Excited to gather together to worship our God. -[223.90 --> 224.66] My name is Chris. -[224.96 --> 226.62] I'm one of the pastors here. -[227.08 --> 231.26] And it's my privilege to lead in our shared worship this morning. -[231.70 --> 235.20] You look up front and you can tell we are celebrating Lord's Supper today. -[235.34 --> 237.74] We're excited to gather around that table. -[237.74 --> 247.08] And we are beginning our two-part, two-Sunday kickoff to the ministry and mission year. -[247.36 --> 252.88] And so our service today and next week will be focused on all of that stuff together. -[253.50 --> 258.22] Before we begin our worship, we have a couple announcements that we would like to make. -[258.22 --> 267.34] First, just a reminder, as we're getting back into the rhythms of regular meetings and connecting and life in the ministry year, -[267.34 --> 274.54] this Thursday, the ministry and mission table has its first meeting. -[274.54 --> 279.22] And so if you are a leader or a committee chair or a coordinator of a ministry here, -[279.70 --> 287.94] you got an email from me last week sometime talking about this and setting it and saving the date for you. -[288.02 --> 290.28] That's this Thursday evening. -[290.94 --> 295.48] If you are a leader or coordinator or a chair of some committee and didn't hear from me, -[295.82 --> 299.08] grab me after the service and I will share that information with you. -[299.08 --> 302.34] Also on Thursday, the deacons have a meeting. -[302.88 --> 305.10] And so if you're a deacon, be prepared for that. -[306.36 --> 312.42] Next Sunday, after our worship, we are also going to have our ministry and mission fair. -[312.84 --> 321.30] And so that's the time where the different ministries and places to serve or volunteer and connect will be in the back in the foyer. -[321.62 --> 325.52] They'll have a table there set up and you can sign up or register. -[325.52 --> 330.20] So you can sign up to volunteer or register or register your kids to participate. -[330.82 --> 336.04] And so they're going to be on display for you to see how you might plug in to our church community. -[337.22 --> 342.06] And then as well, next Sunday evening, we are very excited to share. -[342.64 --> 346.80] We are hosting here what we're calling Sing a New Song. -[347.46 --> 350.88] It's a new song worship concert. -[350.88 --> 358.84] And so we're going to gather together Sunday evening at 6 p.m. with as many people as come and as many as you invite. -[359.00 --> 365.30] This is an awesome opportunity for you to invite people that you have maybe been talking to about faith, church, Jesus, -[365.50 --> 368.38] and say, come on in and see part of what we do. -[368.44 --> 376.02] And we're going to sing or be led in singing a bunch of newer style songs and worship. -[376.02 --> 379.44] And so some of them probably won't be familiar to many of you. -[379.78 --> 384.32] This is a chance to, as we're commanded in the Psalms, sing a new song unto the Lord. -[384.92 --> 391.74] And so we really want to encourage you to come out Sunday evening next week at 6 p.m. to participate in that. -[393.20 --> 397.88] Also, moving through this list, grade eights and parents of grade eights, -[397.88 --> 402.34] you have a meeting with Pastor Kevin after worship today in the Multipurpose Room, -[402.52 --> 407.74] which is down the, what's that, east, west hallway, down the west hallway over there. -[408.08 --> 409.26] And you can meet him. -[410.60 --> 415.64] And then for the group who has been providing some care and connection for Ellen White, -[415.78 --> 420.62] we are going to have a meeting in my study after worship this morning too. -[420.86 --> 423.32] About 15 minutes for 15 minutes. -[423.32 --> 426.12] 15 minutes after worship for about 15 minutes. -[426.46 --> 428.08] Just meet in my study around the corner. -[429.08 --> 433.98] And then lastly, the GEMS girls group is looking for counselors. -[434.76 --> 439.20] And so if you would like to serve in the girls group and be a GEMS counselor, -[439.74 --> 441.66] you can grab Courtney after the service. -[441.76 --> 442.44] She's in the back. -[442.78 --> 443.88] Everyone can see Courtney. -[444.04 --> 445.00] She's standing there waving. -[445.60 --> 449.22] You can grab her, talk to her, and get connected in that regard. -[450.80 --> 451.88] I think that's it. -[451.88 --> 452.92] That was a lot of announcements. -[453.32 --> 455.96] If you missed them, you can check the live stream after service. -[457.24 --> 461.74] Can we stand together as we are welcomed and ushered into God's presence? -[464.42 --> 469.40] Our God welcomes us and he greets us in worship this morning. -[469.56 --> 471.48] Receive the greeting of our God. -[472.52 --> 476.04] Grace, mercy, and peace to you. -[476.04 --> 477.42] From God our Father. -[477.42 --> 480.30] From the Lord Jesus Christ, Son and our Savior. -[480.72 --> 483.42] Through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[483.96 --> 484.54] Everyone said? -[485.32 --> 485.84] Amen. -[486.44 --> 490.60] As God has greeted you, I invite you to greet those you're worshiping around. -[490.60 --> 510.32] Thank you. -[510.32 --> 512.76] Our work is working. -[512.76 --> 513.90] Take care. -[513.90 --> 523.10] Our worship this morning is in the name of the Father, -[523.50 --> 528.52] the one eternal God in whom we live and move and have our being, -[529.64 --> 533.64] and of the Son, our crucified and risen Lord, Jesus Christ, -[534.36 --> 537.86] through whom the love of God is made manifest among us, -[538.36 --> 542.70] and of the Holy Spirit, the counselor by whom we become, -[542.70 --> 546.40] the people of God and the Church of Jesus Christ. -[546.86 --> 548.20] Worship with us this morning. -[572.70 --> 581.88] Come all and tune your hearts to sing to the morning's hour of praise. -[582.22 --> 590.36] From the shifting shadows of the earth we will lift our eyes to Him, -[590.36 --> 599.06] where steady arms of mercy reach to gather children in. -[600.06 --> 607.36] Rejoice! Rejoice! Let every tongue rejoice! -[608.36 --> 615.36] One heart! One voice! O Church of Christ, rejoice! -[615.36 --> 617.36] One voice! -[617.36 --> 619.36] One voice! -[619.36 --> 621.36] One voice! -[621.36 --> 631.06] Come those whose joy is born in time, and those weeping through the night. -[631.06 --> 639.44] Come those who tell of battle's walk, and those struggling in the fight. -[639.44 --> 647.44] For His perfect love will never sing, and those words He never cease. -[647.44 --> 655.44] But follow us through all our years with a certain hope of peace. -[655.44 --> 657.44] Rejoice! Rejoice! Rejoice! -[657.44 --> 663.44] Rejoice! Rejoice! Let every tongue rejoice! -[663.44 --> 672.44] But heart! One voice! O Church of Christ, rejoice! -[672.44 --> 680.44] Rejoice! Rejoice! Rejoice! Rejoice! Rejoice! -[680.44 --> 688.44] Come young and old from every land, men and women of the arch. -[688.44 --> 696.44] Come those with full or empty hands turn the riches of His grace. -[696.44 --> 701.02] Over all the world, his people sing, -[701.20 --> 704.86] Shore to shore, we hear them call. -[705.30 --> 709.50] The truth that cries through every age, -[709.70 --> 713.30] Our God is all in all. -[714.76 --> 721.90] Rejoice, rejoice, let every son rejoice. -[721.90 --> 729.54] One love, one voice, O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[731.54 --> 738.74] Rejoice, rejoice, let every son rejoice. -[739.06 --> 746.66] One love, one voice, O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[751.90 --> 754.90] We stand and lift up our hands, -[754.90 --> 757.54] For the joy of the Lord, -[757.54 --> 765.96] We stand and lift up our hands, -[765.96 --> 784.60] For the joy of the Lord is our strength. -[784.60 --> 790.70] We bow down and worship him now, -[790.96 --> 794.86] How great, how awesome is he, -[795.24 --> 797.60] Together we sing, -[800.36 --> 803.60] Everyone will sing. -[805.36 --> 809.72] Holy is the Lord, God Almighty, -[809.72 --> 814.78] The earth is filled with his glory, -[814.78 --> 819.52] Holy is the Lord, God Almighty, -[819.52 --> 824.42] The earth is filled with his glory, -[825.48 --> 829.36] The earth is filled with his glory, -[829.36 --> 834.36] We stand and lift up our hands, -[834.36 --> 840.00] For the joy of the Lord is our strength. -[840.00 --> 840.50] For the joy of the Lord is our strength. -[840.50 --> 845.34] We bow down and worship him now, -[845.34 --> 849.52] How great, how awesome is he, -[849.52 --> 852.50] Together we sing, -[854.62 --> 857.68] Everyone will sing. -[857.68 --> 863.92] Holy is the Lord, God Almighty, -[863.92 --> 868.98] The earth is filled with his glory, -[868.98 --> 873.66] Holy is the Lord, God Almighty, -[874.82 --> 878.72] The earth is filled with his glory, -[879.72 --> 883.66] The earth is filled with his glory, -[883.66 --> 889.50] It's rising up all around, -[889.62 --> 894.40] It's the anthem of the Lord's renown, -[894.40 --> 899.20] It's rising up all around, -[899.30 --> 905.40] It's the anthem of the Lord's renown, -[905.40 --> 908.46] Together we sing, -[908.46 --> 912.76] Everyone will sing, -[912.76 --> 914.68] Everyone will sing, -[914.68 --> 915.26] Everyone will sing, -[915.26 --> 916.66] Everyone will sing, -[916.66 --> 919.82] Holy is the Lord, God Almighty, -[919.82 --> 924.60] The earth is filled with his glory, -[924.60 --> 929.32] Holy is the Lord, God Almighty, -[929.32 --> 934.04] The earth is filled with his glory, -[934.04 --> 939.00] The earth is filled with his glory, -[939.00 --> 950.32] In Ephesians 4, Paul says, -[950.78 --> 953.66] As a prisoner for the Lord then, -[954.32 --> 957.56] I urge you to live a worthy, -[958.06 --> 960.24] I urge you to live a life -[960.24 --> 963.18] worthy of the calling you have received. -[964.04 --> 967.06] Be completely humble and gentle, -[967.90 --> 968.78] Be patient, -[969.50 --> 971.26] Bearing with one another in love, -[972.14 --> 975.48] Make every effort to keep the unity of the spirit, -[975.98 --> 977.74] Through the bond of peace, -[978.40 --> 979.88] There is one body, -[980.60 --> 981.58] One spirit, -[982.44 --> 984.92] Just as you were called to one hope, -[985.32 --> 986.12] When you were called, -[987.00 --> 987.76] One Lord, -[988.64 --> 989.58] One faith, -[990.28 --> 991.14] One baptism, -[991.94 --> 993.84] One God and Father of all, -[994.04 --> 995.64] Who is over all, -[995.64 --> 996.64] And through all, -[996.64 --> 997.82] And in all, -[997.82 --> 1001.24] So Christ himself gave the apostles, -[1002.20 --> 1002.88] The prophets, -[1003.70 --> 1004.78] The evangelists, -[1005.32 --> 1006.70] The pastors and teachers, -[1007.48 --> 1010.64] To equip his people for works of service, -[1011.28 --> 1014.56] So that the body of Christ may be built up -[1014.56 --> 1017.06] Until all reach unity in faith, -[1017.48 --> 1019.68] And in the knowledge of the Son of God, -[1019.68 --> 1022.22] And become mature, -[1022.22 --> 1022.28] And become mature, -[1022.28 --> 1022.68] And become mature, -[1022.68 --> 1023.28] And become mature, -[1023.28 --> 1024.82] Attaining to the whole measure, -[1025.42 --> 1026.76] Of the fullness of Christ. -[1027.84 --> 1029.76] There will no longer be infants, -[1030.12 --> 1032.40] Tossed back and forth by the waves, -[1032.96 --> 1034.36] And blown here and there, -[1034.50 --> 1035.84] By every wind of teaching, -[1036.40 --> 1038.34] And by cunning and craftiness, -[1038.68 --> 1040.90] Of people in their deceitful scheming. -[1040.90 --> 1042.36] Instead, -[1043.00 --> 1045.18] Speaking the truth in love, -[1045.70 --> 1047.18] We will grow to become, -[1047.40 --> 1048.56] In every respect, -[1049.24 --> 1050.76] The mature body of him, -[1051.12 --> 1052.22] Who is the head, -[1052.80 --> 1053.68] That is Christ. -[1054.56 --> 1055.76] For him, -[1056.14 --> 1057.54] The whole body joined, -[1057.98 --> 1058.94] And held together, -[1059.40 --> 1061.10] By every supporting ligament, -[1061.90 --> 1064.60] Grows and builds itself up in love, -[1065.30 --> 1067.64] As each part does its work. -[1067.64 --> 1071.08] Let's pray. -[1072.74 --> 1073.32] Father, -[1073.48 --> 1075.38] You have shown us the way to live, -[1075.54 --> 1077.28] According to your will and calling. -[1078.02 --> 1079.30] There is one hope, -[1079.92 --> 1080.54] One Lord, -[1080.86 --> 1081.74] One faith, -[1082.26 --> 1082.88] One God. -[1083.84 --> 1085.72] But we have gone our own way. -[1086.34 --> 1088.00] We have put ourselves first. -[1088.90 --> 1091.72] We have allowed ourselves to be tossed back and forth. -[1093.68 --> 1094.84] Forgive us, Lord, -[1095.28 --> 1096.54] And draw us to you. -[1096.54 --> 1098.38] Draw us together, -[1098.90 --> 1102.04] That we may build each other up in love, -[1102.50 --> 1104.50] And work together for your glory. -[1105.26 --> 1107.06] In Jesus' name we pray. -[1107.62 --> 1107.90] Amen. -[1109.02 --> 1111.12] I invite you to stand and sing with us. -[1111.12 --> 1122.80] O Lord, -[1122.80 --> 1136.80] O Lord, -[1136.80 --> 1137.80] O Lord, -[1137.80 --> 1138.80] O Lord, -[1138.80 --> 1140.76] O Lord, -[1140.76 --> 1142.76] O Lord, -[1142.76 --> 1144.76] Forgive us, -[1144.76 --> 1150.28] We have lost beyond you. -[1150.28 --> 1152.84] Have mercy, -[1152.84 --> 1154.84] Have mercy, -[1154.84 --> 1155.84] Have mercy, -[1155.84 --> 1160.60] O Lord, -[1160.60 --> 1177.88] Lord, -[1177.88 --> 1179.24] with thirsty -[1179.24 --> 1181.84] O -[1181.84 --> 1183.36] Lord -[1183.36 --> 1184.68] restore -[1184.68 --> 1187.98] the church -[1187.98 --> 1189.18] that bears -[1189.18 --> 1192.02] your name -[1192.02 --> 1193.08] O -[1193.08 --> 1194.82] spirit -[1194.82 --> 1197.02] send -[1197.02 --> 1199.40] a revival -[1199.40 --> 1201.08] to this -[1201.08 --> 1202.82] nation -[1202.82 --> 1204.46] bring -[1204.46 --> 1206.50] our hearts -[1206.50 --> 1207.86] again -[1207.88 --> 1210.32] breathe -[1210.32 --> 1212.32] on us -[1212.32 --> 1213.76] again -[1213.76 --> 1219.10] O -[1219.10 --> 1220.32] Lord -[1220.32 --> 1222.04] hear -[1222.04 --> 1224.76] O -[1224.76 --> 1226.60] Lord -[1226.60 --> 1228.32] forgive us -[1228.90 --> 1230.32] we have lost -[1231.12 --> 1232.18] the awe -[1232.18 --> 1234.26] of you -[1234.26 --> 1236.32] have mercy -[1236.32 --> 1238.76] have mercy -[1238.76 --> 1239.76] have mercy -[1239.76 --> 1240.76] have mercy -[1240.76 --> 1241.76] have mercy -[1241.76 --> 1242.76] have mercy -[1242.76 --> 1243.76] have mercy -[1243.76 --> 1244.76] have mercy -[1244.76 --> 1245.76] have mercy -[1245.76 --> 1246.76] O Lord -[1246.76 --> 1247.76] cleanse -[1247.76 --> 1248.76] our hearts -[1248.76 --> 1249.76] with joy -[1249.76 --> 1250.76] divided -[1250.76 --> 1254.10] serve the faith -[1254.10 --> 1255.14] that we -[1255.14 --> 1255.76] consume -[1255.76 --> 1257.76] with mercy -[1257.76 --> 1259.20] we're thirsty -[1259.20 --> 1261.20] we're thirsty -[1261.20 --> 1262.20] we're thirsty -[1262.20 --> 1264.20] we're thirsty -[1264.20 --> 1265.20] O -[1265.20 --> 1266.20] Lord -[1266.20 --> 1267.20] restore -[1267.20 --> 1270.20] the church -[1270.20 --> 1271.20] that bears -[1271.20 --> 1273.20] your name -[1273.20 --> 1276.20] O -[1276.20 --> 1290.64] ambassadors -[1290.64 --> 1292.58] for war -[1292.58 --> 1293.36] let you -[1295.36 --> 1296.68] see -[1296.68 --> 1298.64] and -[1298.64 --> 1299.64] what -[1299.64 --> 1301.66] more -[1301.66 --> 1308.46] The church that heads your name -[1308.46 --> 1313.46] Oh, spirit, and strength -[1313.46 --> 1318.98] The revival to this nation -[1318.98 --> 1324.14] Breathe on us again -[1324.14 --> 1329.42] Breathe on us again -[1331.66 --> 1361.64] Breathe on us again -[1361.66 --> 1370.78] Don't drop a single anchor -[1370.78 --> 1373.28] We're almost home -[1373.28 --> 1376.04] Through every toilet teacher -[1376.04 --> 1378.54] We're almost home -[1378.54 --> 1381.10] How many children sing -[1381.10 --> 1383.74] Something for us not -[1383.74 --> 1385.52] No stopping now -[1385.52 --> 1387.66] We're almost home -[1387.66 --> 1394.28] The promised land is strong -[1394.28 --> 1396.78] We're almost home -[1396.78 --> 1399.28] And not a tear shall fall -[1399.28 --> 1402.04] And we're almost home -[1402.04 --> 1404.70] We're bringing out our souls -[1404.70 --> 1406.78] That our kingdom's grown -[1406.78 --> 1408.78] No turning back -[1408.78 --> 1411.40] We're almost home -[1411.40 --> 1413.40] We're almost home -[1413.40 --> 1417.40] We're almost home -[1417.40 --> 1420.74] No person for the blessed show -[1420.74 --> 1422.24] We're raising love -[1422.24 --> 1425.78] We're almost home -[1425.78 --> 1427.40] We're almost home -[1427.40 --> 1428.40] We're almost home -[1428.40 --> 1429.40] We're almost home -[1429.40 --> 1431.02] This journey ours together -[1431.02 --> 1434.02] We're almost home -[1434.02 --> 1436.02] A doom and great forever -[1436.02 --> 1439.02] We're almost home -[1439.02 --> 1441.64] But some of you will sing -[1441.64 --> 1442.02] But some of you will sing -[1442.02 --> 1444.72] At the happy throne -[1444.72 --> 1446.48] And make a part -[1446.48 --> 1448.64] We're almost home -[1448.64 --> 1452.26] This life is just a paper -[1452.26 --> 1454.26] We're almost home -[1454.26 --> 1455.88] We're almost home -[1455.88 --> 1457.88] That sun is setting under -[1457.88 --> 1460.88] We're almost home -[1460.88 --> 1463.38] Take courage for this darkness -[1463.38 --> 1465.88] She'll pray to dawn -[1465.88 --> 1467.88] No wind your eyes -[1467.88 --> 1469.88] We're almost home -[1469.88 --> 1471.88] We're almost home -[1471.88 --> 1475.88] We're almost home -[1475.88 --> 1477.88] No price on door -[1477.88 --> 1480.88] The message over our ways alone -[1480.88 --> 1483.88] We're almost home -[1483.88 --> 1486.50] We're almost home -[1486.50 --> 1490.50] We're almost home -[1490.50 --> 1491.50] No price on door -[1491.50 --> 1494.50] The message over our ways alone -[1494.50 --> 1498.50] We're almost home -[1502.50 --> 1504.50] I invite you to be seated -[1513.88 --> 1522.24] Good morning -[1522.24 --> 1523.00] My name is Yap -[1523.00 --> 1524.22] I'm a deacon here -[1524.22 --> 1526.88] Today's special offering -[1526.88 --> 1527.64] Will be for -[1527.64 --> 1529.84] Resonate Global Mission -[1529.84 --> 1531.74] Resonate Global Missions -[1531.74 --> 1532.78] Is an organization -[1532.78 --> 1534.06] That works alongside -[1534.06 --> 1536.32] Christian Reformed churches -[1536.32 --> 1538.56] As they join God's mission -[1538.56 --> 1539.64] In their own neighborhoods -[1539.64 --> 1540.64] And around the world -[1540.64 --> 1542.98] In preparing missionaries -[1542.98 --> 1543.64] And volunteers -[1543.64 --> 1545.32] Supporting church planters -[1545.32 --> 1547.32] And campus ministers -[1547.32 --> 1549.92] Connecting with ministries overseas -[1549.92 --> 1551.40] Engaging church members -[1551.40 --> 1554.34] And younger generations -[1554.34 --> 1555.18] In mission work -[1555.18 --> 1557.64] And following the spirit -[1557.64 --> 1558.58] By discerning -[1558.58 --> 1560.98] New ways to proclaim the gospel -[1560.98 --> 1565.82] From John 20 verse 21 -[1565.82 --> 1567.74] Again Jesus said -[1567.74 --> 1568.88] Peace be with you -[1568.88 --> 1571.02] As the Father sent me -[1571.02 --> 1571.98] I am sending you -[1571.98 --> 1574.52] Again Jesus said -[1574.52 --> 1584.22] I am sending you -[1584.22 --> 1585.22] Amen. -[1614.22 --> 1616.22] Amen. -[1644.22 --> 1646.22] Amen. -[1674.22 --> 1676.22] Amen. -[1704.22 --> 1732.02] Good morning. -[1732.02 --> 1736.90] My name is Mike and I'm an elder here and I have a special announcement that involves -[1736.90 --> 1737.76] the Lowberg family. -[1737.90 --> 1740.62] But we're going to show a photo first, I think. -[1741.20 --> 1745.82] I wonder if any of the kids and youth can guess who some of, well, the one guy on the -[1745.82 --> 1748.12] right who that young dapper fellow is. -[1750.08 --> 1750.86] Any guesses? -[1751.40 --> 1752.94] No one knows. -[1753.94 --> 1757.04] Aging, aging differently at different, yeah. -[1757.34 --> 1758.62] Well, there's Pastor Kev. -[1758.62 --> 1762.10] So there's a few other photos we can look at here. -[1762.18 --> 1767.56] I went digging through my coffers of photos to find a few shots. -[1767.72 --> 1772.46] Here's Kevin and Nikki at like an initial youth leaders, I think, team building event. -[1773.28 --> 1776.98] And I think this actually, it's, yeah, it's impossible to see. -[1776.98 --> 1787.36] But way over here in the back corner is Kev at, this was a summer youth event before you -[1787.36 --> 1793.24] were hired where you came out and sort of, yeah, like what's the word when you trial out? -[1793.36 --> 1794.78] You meet us, we meet you. -[1795.34 --> 1796.64] Yeah, we judged him. -[1797.42 --> 1797.56] Yeah. -[1797.56 --> 1799.08] Yeah. -[1799.26 --> 1800.00] So, yeah. -[1800.18 --> 1800.66] So, yeah. -[1800.80 --> 1802.78] You know, a little ringer on the rose, whatever we were doing. -[1803.10 --> 1803.88] So, same event. -[1803.98 --> 1807.80] And he's also hidden in the dark, I believe, on the far right. -[1809.06 --> 1809.42] Yeah. -[1809.48 --> 1810.68] He's a little bit closer up there. -[1811.00 --> 1821.02] So, this was also the photo that we were introduced to when Kev initially applied and then also was -[1821.02 --> 1823.56] sent out to the church when we announced that Kev was hired. -[1823.56 --> 1825.82] And this is the milestone we're celebrating this week. -[1825.90 --> 1829.68] So, last week, Kev hit 15 years at Langley-Emmanuel. -[1834.92 --> 1835.36] Yeah. -[1835.58 --> 1841.24] So, Kev and Nikki and the girls, if you want to come up just briefly, we won't spend all -[1841.24 --> 1842.20] morning on this, of course. -[1842.32 --> 1844.98] But 15 years is a fantastic milestone. -[1845.94 --> 1849.82] That photo, Kevin and Nikki weren't even married yet at the time, I think. -[1849.88 --> 1850.96] You were still dating. -[1851.78 --> 1851.94] Yeah. -[1851.94 --> 1854.90] And, like, youth and, like, kids. -[1854.98 --> 1858.02] Like, just to put it in perspective, like, 15 years was, like, kind of a long time. -[1858.40 --> 1861.68] So, like, 2008, right, there was no Instagram. -[1862.48 --> 1866.00] Netflix and, like, flat screens weren't really a thing. -[1866.40 --> 1868.06] What else did I dig out of the old? -[1869.34 --> 1872.06] Obama was elected that year. -[1872.46 --> 1874.26] I'm sure the kids cared about that. -[1875.68 --> 1876.08] Yeah. -[1876.08 --> 1878.54] And, like, the iPhone didn't even, wasn't a thing either. -[1878.54 --> 1881.38] I got my first cell phone when I started. -[1882.74 --> 1885.14] First cell phone was here at Langley-Emmanuel. -[1885.30 --> 1886.52] There's a milestone, eh? -[1886.72 --> 1887.64] So, yeah. -[1887.70 --> 1893.80] And you guys as a family have grown and been a huge part of our family here at Langley-Emmanuel. -[1893.80 --> 1898.28] So, we just want to take a moment to acknowledge that and thank you guys and appreciate you. -[1898.84 --> 1902.80] And for all of us, just to think of all the amazing things you guys have been a part of. -[1903.26 --> 1907.58] Pastor Bill, Pastor Dan, now Pastor Chris, working with those guys. -[1907.58 --> 1919.20] And probably hundreds of youth over these 15 years that Kev has been a part of their walk with the Lord and God has worked through them. -[1919.40 --> 1924.56] So, there's probably just way too many words we could say and way too many people we could yank up. -[1924.78 --> 1926.64] We don't have time for an open mic. -[1927.04 --> 1930.80] But I would like to encourage the church, if you have a word of encouragement or a word of appreciation -[1930.80 --> 1937.34] or just a quirky story or a photo you've dug out of your own coffers that you want to share with Kev this week or the coming month, -[1937.46 --> 1938.24] please do that. -[1938.56 --> 1940.00] And I think that would be a great highlight. -[1940.68 --> 1943.90] So, there was a photo I wasn't able to find, but I'd seen it somewhere. -[1943.98 --> 1947.70] So, I dug and dug and dug, but couldn't find it, of the initial commissioning. -[1948.40 --> 1956.54] And we had done this goofy sort of activity where I think a bunch of people came up and bestowed articles of clothing on Kev -[1956.54 --> 1960.50] as different sort of symbols of the ways we were commissioning. -[1960.50 --> 1966.84] We're not going to repeat that again here today, but I would like to take some time to pray for you guys. -[1967.32 --> 1970.48] And well-acknowledged, Nikki, this isn't just a job, right? -[1970.60 --> 1974.46] And Nikki came alongside Kev, and you've been a huge part of this church and this ministry too. -[1974.66 --> 1976.00] So, thank you guys. -[1976.12 --> 1977.40] Thank you so, so much. -[1977.54 --> 1981.56] And of course, we praise God for all that he has done through you both and through your family. -[1982.70 --> 1984.22] And we go for many more years. -[1984.22 --> 1984.80] Yeah. -[1985.80 --> 1986.16] Yeah. -[1986.16 --> 1986.26] Yeah. -[1986.26 --> 1986.32] Yeah. -[1986.32 --> 1986.76] Yeah. -[1986.76 --> 1987.32] Yeah. -[1990.50 --> 1992.30] So, let me pray for you guys. -[1992.74 --> 1994.84] And then also, we have a bit of a special gift. -[1996.66 --> 1997.02] Yeah. -[1999.06 --> 2000.54] We have a bit of a special gift for you guys. -[2000.60 --> 2002.12] I'll give that to you now before I pray. -[2002.22 --> 2005.72] It's a kind of a night out that you can, on behalf of the church and the council. -[2006.12 --> 2008.42] And after the service, there is a cake. -[2008.96 --> 2010.92] So, make sure you hang around for that. -[2011.22 --> 2012.24] But let me pray for you guys. -[2012.24 --> 2019.72] And if you wish to extend your hand or other gesture of joining in on this prayer, please do so. -[2020.68 --> 2024.74] Heavenly Father, we come before you this morning, and we just thank you so much for Kevin, Nikki, and the girls. -[2025.14 --> 2027.86] And for 15 years of just fantastic faithfulness. -[2028.22 --> 2036.06] We especially thank you, God, for the way you have worked through this family and how you have been present in their lives and taken them through so much. -[2036.06 --> 2042.68] So, Lord, we just pray again over them, and thank you for them, and just pray for that continued blessing. -[2043.80 --> 2047.88] For the many, many ways we know you're going to use them in big and little and obvious and unobvious ways. -[2048.22 --> 2049.58] We leave that before you this morning, Lord. -[2050.28 --> 2051.00] In your name, amen. -[2052.00 --> 2052.48] Amen. -[2061.18 --> 2061.90] Me first. -[2061.90 --> 2067.78] We're going to do the children's blessing at this time. -[2067.92 --> 2072.60] And so, what that means is kids who are going to head out to children's worship time. -[2072.70 --> 2077.34] And so, we're looking at like three-year-olds to kindergarten-ish kind of age. -[2077.42 --> 2078.68] So, come on up to the front. -[2079.26 --> 2080.58] We're going to do a blessing together. -[2080.70 --> 2081.20] Come on up. -[2085.66 --> 2086.28] All right. -[2086.64 --> 2087.82] You don't even have to sit down. -[2087.82 --> 2090.40] We're going to stand and be quick together. -[2091.90 --> 2093.16] Why don't you face everyone? -[2093.34 --> 2095.28] And then you guys can all stand as well. -[2096.10 --> 2098.02] And so, we're going to hold our hands up. -[2098.34 --> 2101.44] And the kids are going to say, the Lord be with you. -[2101.50 --> 2105.12] And then we will respond by saying, and also with you. -[2105.24 --> 2105.44] All right. -[2105.50 --> 2106.40] So, loud voices ready. -[2107.06 --> 2109.26] The Lord be with you. -[2109.72 --> 2111.34] And also with you. -[2111.62 --> 2112.00] Awesome. -[2112.18 --> 2112.76] Thanks, guys. -[2112.76 --> 2114.76] Now you can... -[2114.76 --> 2134.04] My name is Paul, and I'm an elder here at Emmanuel Church. -[2134.04 --> 2143.08] Normally, Eric would give the notes from the council meeting. -[2143.18 --> 2147.02] We had our first full council meeting this week. -[2147.50 --> 2148.76] First one for the season. -[2149.78 --> 2153.66] Eric is away, so he asked me to convey those to you. -[2153.66 --> 2163.10] Pastor Chris first led us in a time of strategic thinking for Emmanuel. -[2164.38 --> 2172.48] And we spent a bit of time thinking about ways to make some ideas happen for the future of our church. -[2172.56 --> 2173.28] A bit of visioning. -[2173.28 --> 2183.36] As well, classes is coming up October 17 and 18 at Willoughby Church. -[2183.46 --> 2184.14] They're hosting it. -[2184.96 --> 2187.88] So, we talked about who was going to go there for that. -[2188.38 --> 2195.26] If you have anything that you want to bring forward that you let either myself or Eric or Pastor Chris know that. -[2195.26 --> 2205.34] We also passed a final addition, if you will, made a few changes have been made. -[2205.58 --> 2214.96] But the abuse awareness and prevention and response policy was approved for its implementation and use. -[2215.96 --> 2220.56] And we thank the committee that did a lot of work for that. -[2220.56 --> 2227.24] Also, Kevin gave us a debrief on Reactivate last week. -[2227.58 --> 2229.76] We heard all kinds of stories about how that went. -[2230.88 --> 2232.64] And it was very positive. -[2233.34 --> 2239.40] And we passed, as a council, approval to do that again here next year. -[2243.36 --> 2247.46] Yesterday, at New Life Church in Abbotsford, -[2247.46 --> 2252.42] most of council was there, I believe. -[2252.42 --> 2263.30] We participated in a multi-church leadership training event that went really well. -[2265.24 --> 2275.96] And I was struck when the Ephesians 4 was read this morning in the call in the confession and assurances in the service. -[2275.96 --> 2278.46] And I go, that was the theme of yesterday. -[2279.52 --> 2280.58] Funny how that works. -[2286.14 --> 2290.06] Let us come together for our church family prayer. -[2290.06 --> 2307.86] Lord, our Lord, through your glorious name and all your wondrous works are proclaimed. -[2309.30 --> 2314.42] In the heavens with radiant signs evermore your glory shines. -[2315.46 --> 2318.02] How great is your name. -[2318.02 --> 2324.20] Lord, our Lord, in all the earth, how great your name. -[2326.00 --> 2331.00] Yours is the name of matchless worth, excellent in all the earth. -[2331.88 --> 2334.36] How great is your name. -[2334.36 --> 2341.24] We gather in your name this morning to bring you our prayers and petitions. -[2342.24 --> 2346.04] To sing your praises, to hear and study your word. -[2347.04 --> 2351.54] As we have confessed our sin and accepted by faith your promised forgiveness. -[2351.54 --> 2354.98] Thank you, Father, for this day. -[2356.50 --> 2361.38] For bringing your people into a preview of the established kingdom. -[2362.52 --> 2366.94] For giving us this foretaste of glory divine. -[2366.94 --> 2373.08] We know we cannot truly comprehend the nature of your established kingdom. -[2374.08 --> 2381.22] But on this day, here and now, we know that it is wonderful and glorious beyond belief. -[2381.22 --> 2388.10] As we wait, we are mindful of our task here on earth. -[2388.10 --> 2391.80] You did not create us to be idle. -[2391.80 --> 2396.58] You gave us dominion and responsibility over creation. -[2396.58 --> 2403.08] And ask that you will equip us for this task of developing and caring for this world. -[2405.08 --> 2407.52] Work in our hearts as we do our daily work. -[2407.52 --> 2409.68] And help us to do that work. -[2409.78 --> 2413.86] Keeping in mind that all we do is for you, Lord. -[2415.92 --> 2420.26] Raise up the church to do deeds of faith and generosity. -[2423.06 --> 2428.50] We pray for our nation and its leaders that they would follow after justice and righteousness. -[2430.62 --> 2432.28] We pray for your church. -[2433.12 --> 2436.06] Grant your leaders your wisdom and discernment. -[2436.06 --> 2437.60] Strength for the day. -[2437.60 --> 2439.78] And faith in troubled times. -[2441.16 --> 2444.54] We pray for the ongoing ministries here at Emmanuel. -[2445.24 --> 2450.78] So that as we gather, we may continue to grow in faith and love. -[2451.76 --> 2455.84] We pray that we would all grow into the grace and knowledge of Jesus. -[2456.74 --> 2459.44] Doing good works to his glory. -[2461.54 --> 2464.38] Father of mercies and God of all comfort. -[2464.38 --> 2472.92] We humbly ask you to visit and relieve those who are sick and suffering from chronic conditions. -[2473.86 --> 2476.92] That are recovering from surgery or are grieving. -[2476.92 --> 2482.00] We are thankful that Ellen White is back home. -[2482.20 --> 2483.38] And we pray for Ellen. -[2483.38 --> 2487.98] She needs some extra support and love due to some confusion and transitions. -[2490.54 --> 2496.28] We pray for Wendy Vachke who lost her youngest daughter, Elise Asher. -[2496.28 --> 2499.64] Give her the comfort that she needs right now. -[2502.06 --> 2505.36] We pray for Rose Vita who is struggling with some health concerns. -[2505.66 --> 2506.62] We pray for peace. -[2506.98 --> 2509.06] That she can feel God's presence. -[2509.06 --> 2514.46] We thank you that Anne Prince is healing and getting more mobile. -[2516.58 --> 2519.14] Father, we ask that you also be with Amy Crown. -[2519.14 --> 2523.76] We know that with you all things are possible. -[2524.32 --> 2529.44] We pray for healing and comfort for Amy and her family as they all go through this difficult time. -[2529.44 --> 2535.10] And Lord, we pray for those of us that are broken and hurting. -[2535.78 --> 2537.04] For broken relationships. -[2537.88 --> 2538.98] Families that are struggling. -[2539.92 --> 2545.46] We ask that you will help them to feel your presence walking alongside them through their difficulties. -[2545.46 --> 2552.90] We ask now that you will bless the word we are about to hear. -[2553.84 --> 2559.60] And we pray that you will pour out your spirit on Pastor Chris as he preaches that word here today. -[2561.44 --> 2565.16] And Father, we pray that our eyes would be fixed on Jesus. -[2566.38 --> 2572.78] We pray that by your spirit you might bring into our hearts to believe and to trust in you. -[2572.78 --> 2576.96] For all these things we pray them not because we are worthy. -[2577.54 --> 2579.08] But in Jesus name alone. -[2580.04 --> 2580.40] Amen. -[2600.40 --> 2602.52] Each year in September. -[2602.78 --> 2608.42] We spend some time digging into who we are as a church. -[2608.90 --> 2618.82] And we're going to do that this morning through the lens and through the calling of Philippians 1, 27 to 30. -[2618.96 --> 2622.32] And so if you have a Bible handy, I encourage you to open that up. -[2623.10 --> 2625.14] It will be on the screen behind me. -[2625.64 --> 2627.42] But that will eventually disappear. -[2627.52 --> 2630.02] If you have it in your hands, you can keep it in front of you. -[2630.02 --> 2633.14] You can grab your device if you like as well. -[2633.22 --> 2637.52] If that's where you read your Bible and get that and follow along. -[2638.30 --> 2643.40] I'm going to begin by reading from Philippians 1, 27 together. -[2646.56 --> 2649.96] Paul writes to the church in Philippians. -[2649.96 --> 2655.78] And he writes this from a jail cell while in Rome. -[2655.78 --> 2664.30] Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. -[2664.30 --> 2671.64] Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, -[2671.90 --> 2676.14] I will know that you stand firm in the one spirit, -[2676.76 --> 2679.78] striving together as one for the faith of the gospel, -[2680.20 --> 2683.76] without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. -[2683.76 --> 2687.56] This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, -[2687.90 --> 2691.10] but that you will be saved, and that by God. -[2691.82 --> 2694.66] For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ, -[2694.74 --> 2698.70] not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him. -[2699.24 --> 2703.04] Since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, -[2703.34 --> 2705.90] and now hear that I still have. -[2706.70 --> 2707.92] This is the word of the Lord. -[2707.92 --> 2717.92] As Paul mentioned, this past week we had our first council meeting of the season, -[2717.92 --> 2722.24] and we began that season reflecting together, -[2722.44 --> 2724.96] and maybe even anticipating together, -[2724.96 --> 2730.32] how we might see God work in our midst over the next year -[2730.32 --> 2732.98] in our life and ministry together. -[2732.98 --> 2738.96] We spent some time wondering what God might be calling us to do. -[2739.82 --> 2744.56] And one thing, one theme that came up over and over and over again -[2744.56 --> 2749.40] that is abundantly clear in my almost three years here -[2749.40 --> 2753.82] is that this church loves community. -[2754.68 --> 2759.66] That this church loves community and life together events. -[2759.66 --> 2762.56] And that we want more of that. -[2763.62 --> 2766.60] Whether it's potlucks or baseball, -[2767.14 --> 2769.84] we love shared life together. -[2771.12 --> 2774.54] And in fact, that's one of the things that I think is really compelling -[2774.54 --> 2777.46] about Emmanuel and about life here. -[2778.08 --> 2783.64] But we also are realizing that as a church grows, -[2784.72 --> 2789.22] those intentional communities and an experience of community -[2789.22 --> 2793.90] is one of the things that requires more and more intentionality -[2793.90 --> 2796.28] on our part, both as leaders, -[2796.66 --> 2799.32] but on everyone who's here. -[2802.12 --> 2804.16] Now, every year, like we've said, -[2804.16 --> 2811.40] we look back and we wonder forward around our mission statement. -[2811.40 --> 2817.58] Now, there's all sorts of ways that churches have captured their purpose -[2817.58 --> 2823.54] or summarized what they are longing to do or be in pithy little ways. -[2824.28 --> 2829.42] Ours is gather, grow, go. -[2830.44 --> 2831.88] You'll find that on our website. -[2832.00 --> 2832.98] You'll find it in our branding. -[2833.24 --> 2835.92] You'll find this around the building, in different places. -[2835.92 --> 2842.92] And we talk here about gather, grow, go as a sort of guiding principle -[2842.92 --> 2845.60] for the focus of our work together. -[2847.20 --> 2849.54] Now, when we do that, this is what we mean. -[2849.64 --> 2850.90] And I'll do this really quickly. -[2851.10 --> 2853.60] You can find this information on our website. -[2853.60 --> 2854.80] But just as a reminder, -[2855.36 --> 2858.98] because not all of you live in this space the same way that I do, -[2858.98 --> 2863.72] but we gather to worship God and glorify Him with our lives, -[2863.76 --> 2866.94] not just on Sundays, but every day throughout the week, -[2867.02 --> 2871.90] we want to be a community of disciples coming together in life and story. -[2872.42 --> 2876.50] We grow in our relationship to God through Jesus and the gospel -[2876.50 --> 2879.94] and in our relationships to each other and the community around us. -[2880.34 --> 2884.74] And we go out on mission with God to make disciples of all nations -[2884.74 --> 2889.20] and to reveal His kingdom to the world as we live out of God's love -[2889.20 --> 2891.02] and service to our neighbors. -[2892.54 --> 2898.62] For today and for next week, that's the sort of big frame in which we operate. -[2899.14 --> 2903.78] And then, in particular, what I would like us to focus on -[2903.78 --> 2907.76] is this idea of community, or I'm going to expand it -[2907.76 --> 2911.62] and use the idea of shared life together. -[2911.62 --> 2915.74] And so, the banner for today that we're going to operate under -[2915.74 --> 2918.82] is that the shared life together is collective, -[2919.32 --> 2922.58] it is contrastive, it is called out, -[2923.02 --> 2928.00] and all of those things together, Lord willing, makes it compelling. -[2929.02 --> 2932.52] Collective, contrastive, called out, and compelling. -[2933.36 --> 2938.42] Now, we can see this in the text from Philippians, I think, pretty clearly. -[2938.42 --> 2943.48] And so, in this first heading, under the banner of collective, -[2943.82 --> 2946.08] our shared life is collective. -[2946.34 --> 2949.34] Notice from our text, right? -[2949.44 --> 2952.66] Paul writes, whatever happens, conduct yourselves. -[2953.20 --> 2955.16] And so, even the plural pronoun used there, -[2955.20 --> 2958.58] he's talking to a group of people together. -[2958.98 --> 2960.74] Conduct yourselves, and then he says, -[2960.88 --> 2964.28] in one spirit, together as one. -[2964.28 --> 2968.20] As one for the faith of the gospel. -[2968.48 --> 2971.64] So, he's saying, you are together as one. -[2971.76 --> 2975.46] And then, he says, you saw that I was going through struggles, -[2975.62 --> 2977.10] and now you're going through them. -[2977.18 --> 2980.94] You see that we share in these struggles. -[2982.34 --> 2985.54] The shared life of the church is collective. -[2986.72 --> 2989.38] This is our gather. -[2989.38 --> 2994.34] Now, to be really clear, this idea that the shared life is collective -[2994.34 --> 2996.12] is all over the Bible. -[2996.78 --> 2998.74] We have a slide that I'm going to throw up there -[2998.74 --> 3000.16] that has a bunch of verses. -[3000.44 --> 3001.62] I'm not going to read them all, -[3002.28 --> 3005.74] but let me just say the first one there. -[3005.90 --> 3009.24] In Christ, we, though many, form one body, -[3010.04 --> 3013.00] and each member belongs to all the others. -[3014.24 --> 3019.00] This theme is repeated throughout the New Testament expression of the church. -[3019.38 --> 3022.76] All the believers were together and had everything in common. -[3022.92 --> 3027.58] They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. -[3028.32 --> 3030.44] The shared life of the church is collective. -[3031.98 --> 3034.98] And what we need to notice today, -[3036.04 --> 3040.30] the collective aspect of our shared life together, -[3041.36 --> 3046.06] the gathering that we do isn't just about Sundays. -[3046.06 --> 3053.80] Now, the gathering of believers for worship is vital for who we are as Christians -[3053.80 --> 3055.80] and vital for our lives as disciples. -[3056.34 --> 3061.22] Here, when we gather, God is present and in power in a special way. -[3061.44 --> 3063.56] He promises that in our worship. -[3063.56 --> 3068.08] But our gathering, our shared life together, -[3068.54 --> 3071.88] collectively continues six days a week. -[3071.98 --> 3073.66] And maybe that's sharing meals together. -[3073.80 --> 3076.00] Maybe that's doing ministry and mission together. -[3076.14 --> 3077.82] Maybe that's being in small groups together. -[3077.96 --> 3080.84] Maybe that's volunteering at different ministries or teaching, -[3081.18 --> 3083.66] different classes or mentoring, right? -[3083.90 --> 3087.32] Participating wherever you are called to plug in. -[3087.32 --> 3094.10] The shared life together is about more than an hour and a half one day a week. -[3095.12 --> 3098.34] It's, in fact, about all of life. -[3099.92 --> 3106.20] And as I said, I think this is critical for the identity of the church. -[3106.20 --> 3112.00] I've told this story before in some other contexts, -[3112.28 --> 3116.34] but I'll repeat it again because it conveys the point well. -[3117.44 --> 3121.68] Before my family moved out here almost three years ago, -[3122.46 --> 3126.12] we were talking to some of our neighbors in our old community, -[3126.24 --> 3127.22] our old neighborhood. -[3127.34 --> 3130.52] And there's two older women who were not church members, -[3130.64 --> 3133.20] who were not Christian, who lived across the road from us. -[3133.20 --> 3137.28] They became sort of honorary grandmas to our kids. -[3139.06 --> 3142.14] And they've never really been part of a church community. -[3142.60 --> 3146.24] And as we were talking with them about moving out west, -[3146.76 --> 3148.66] Sue looked at me and she said, -[3148.84 --> 3150.96] I don't know how you can move across the country -[3150.96 --> 3152.56] to a place that you've never been, -[3152.80 --> 3154.90] to a people that you have no idea about. -[3155.02 --> 3156.12] That's got to be terrifying. -[3157.58 --> 3159.26] And I was able to tell her, -[3159.78 --> 3161.58] yeah, it's a little intimidating, -[3161.58 --> 3164.94] but it's not terrifying because we know -[3164.94 --> 3167.96] that we have a ready-made community -[3167.96 --> 3170.12] where we're going to land. -[3170.80 --> 3174.74] We have a people that we're going to be immediately part of -[3174.74 --> 3178.08] who are for us and who want to support us and uphold us. -[3178.32 --> 3180.56] And that's part of what being the church means. -[3182.44 --> 3187.00] And I got to tell you that over the last two and a half years, -[3187.00 --> 3190.56] you've proven that true time and time again. -[3191.04 --> 3193.88] You have been family to us. -[3194.34 --> 3195.68] In fact, this past summer, -[3195.78 --> 3198.62] I was able to go visit with Sue and Cheryl -[3198.62 --> 3201.32] on our old street in Ontario. -[3201.64 --> 3202.66] And she asked, -[3202.74 --> 3206.04] and I was able to proudly and boldly boast in the Lord -[3206.04 --> 3208.84] about your goodness to us in this regard -[3208.84 --> 3212.46] and the strength of the church family here. -[3212.46 --> 3220.68] And in an increasingly divided and polarized world, -[3221.08 --> 3225.40] where communities are split across political spectrums, -[3225.44 --> 3229.40] where families are divided across those same political perspectives, -[3229.64 --> 3233.46] or where families are divided across different religious perspectives -[3233.46 --> 3235.12] or ideological perspectives, -[3235.12 --> 3241.08] the church becomes this really incredible and unique place -[3241.08 --> 3243.98] for the unity that we have in Christ -[3243.98 --> 3247.28] to be realized and emphasized and on display. -[3248.76 --> 3251.28] Now, very clearly, that doesn't mean we all agree, -[3252.28 --> 3256.52] but it does mean that we are committed to each other -[3256.52 --> 3257.70] in face of disagreement. -[3259.10 --> 3261.82] It doesn't even mean that we'll always like each other, -[3261.82 --> 3265.74] but it does mean that we will always love each other, -[3266.52 --> 3270.18] and that we will always make the decision to love one another, -[3270.26 --> 3272.78] that we will always, as Paul says in a different letter, -[3272.90 --> 3275.66] submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. -[3277.30 --> 3279.66] This is our shared life together, -[3279.82 --> 3282.72] and it is collective, and it defines who we are, -[3282.80 --> 3286.52] but it also sustains who we are as disciples of Jesus -[3286.52 --> 3288.98] in a world that seeks to divide. -[3288.98 --> 3301.40] But also, this shared life isn't only about us here at Emmanuel. -[3301.88 --> 3306.00] It isn't only about our connection to the global church, -[3306.10 --> 3309.22] to brothers and sisters who believe in Jesus around the world, -[3309.28 --> 3311.32] although that is another aspect of it, right? -[3311.40 --> 3314.66] That we belong to the church Catholic -[3314.66 --> 3317.56] that is Christians of all times and all places, -[3317.56 --> 3321.78] and that's part of our collective identity, -[3321.78 --> 3329.96] but your shared life is also part of your witness, -[3330.30 --> 3333.52] part of your connecting around the world. -[3335.26 --> 3338.32] Mark Glanville is a professor at Regent College, -[3338.32 --> 3341.76] and I had the privilege of interviewing him yesterday -[3341.76 --> 3343.94] at this council training event that we did. -[3343.94 --> 3347.08] He's written a book called Improvising Church -[3347.08 --> 3348.88] that was the focus of our second session, -[3349.20 --> 3350.94] and one of the things he says in that book, -[3351.02 --> 3351.96] which I just love, -[3352.12 --> 3357.12] is that our shared life is the beginning of witness. -[3358.56 --> 3360.14] And so not only does that mean -[3360.14 --> 3362.48] that the life we share here is on display -[3362.48 --> 3363.84] to the world around us, -[3364.22 --> 3366.70] but that your shared life -[3366.70 --> 3371.76] is part of your witnessing of Christ -[3371.76 --> 3373.64] to the people who don't yet know him. -[3374.98 --> 3378.06] Your life is shared with your unbelieving friends -[3378.06 --> 3379.40] and neighbors and coworkers. -[3380.42 --> 3382.56] Your life is shared with your soccer team, -[3382.86 --> 3384.10] with your cornhole league. -[3384.44 --> 3387.72] Your life is shared wherever you find yourself, -[3388.12 --> 3389.02] wherever you are. -[3389.98 --> 3393.74] You are invited to share life with those people -[3393.74 --> 3396.44] as a witness to who Jesus is -[3396.44 --> 3398.20] and what he has done in your life -[3398.20 --> 3400.00] and what he is doing in your midst. -[3401.92 --> 3405.72] Now, I confess that this area -[3405.72 --> 3409.20] is a growing edge for me. -[3410.76 --> 3412.26] I'm pretty good, I think, -[3412.34 --> 3414.86] at sharing my life with all y'all here. -[3415.58 --> 3417.62] I'm pretty good at sharing my life -[3417.62 --> 3418.74] with the random people -[3418.74 --> 3420.70] who come into my study -[3420.70 --> 3422.64] and who want to talk to me -[3422.64 --> 3424.36] either in a moment of crisis -[3424.36 --> 3426.54] or looking for a dispute -[3426.54 --> 3427.90] or a fight of some kind. -[3428.18 --> 3430.10] I'm good at being present there, -[3431.22 --> 3433.28] but I'm still learning -[3433.28 --> 3436.18] how to share my life in my neighborhood. -[3437.74 --> 3439.20] I've mentioned this neighborhood already, -[3439.32 --> 3440.26] but in my old neighborhood, -[3440.44 --> 3441.28] in St. Catharines, -[3441.36 --> 3444.56] we lived like right downtown of the city. -[3444.76 --> 3447.02] Our house was 125 years old, -[3447.32 --> 3450.20] which means we were all front porch communities. -[3451.70 --> 3453.42] We didn't have much of a backyard, -[3453.70 --> 3454.92] but we all had front porches. -[3455.56 --> 3456.84] And so I would sit on the front porch -[3456.84 --> 3458.32] with my book or a glass of wine -[3458.32 --> 3459.50] and then neighbors would come over -[3459.50 --> 3461.04] and I would offer them a glass of wine -[3461.04 --> 3461.80] and we would chat -[3461.80 --> 3463.66] because everyone was out -[3463.66 --> 3464.68] and in each other's space. -[3465.62 --> 3466.70] We knew everybody -[3466.70 --> 3468.50] and we lived life together -[3468.50 --> 3469.64] because we were so close -[3469.64 --> 3470.54] and on top of each other. -[3471.90 --> 3473.88] Now, I live in Murrayville, -[3475.14 --> 3476.96] which is, and I invented this word, -[3476.96 --> 3479.38] the suburban-iest suburb -[3479.38 --> 3480.80] of the neighborhood, -[3481.56 --> 3482.84] right, of Langley. -[3483.96 --> 3485.38] People commute to work -[3485.38 --> 3487.26] and they commute home. -[3487.88 --> 3489.42] They walk from their car. -[3490.30 --> 3492.30] They nod to me as neighbor -[3492.30 --> 3494.48] and then they walk in their door -[3494.48 --> 3496.38] and then I don't see them -[3496.38 --> 3498.30] until the next day at 5.15 -[3498.30 --> 3500.10] when we're both coming home from work again -[3500.10 --> 3501.46] and we nod at each other. -[3501.46 --> 3503.94] And maybe you'll hear people -[3503.94 --> 3505.06] hanging out in their backyard. -[3505.96 --> 3507.00] And in fact, sometimes we hear -[3507.00 --> 3508.46] those teenagers who are having parties -[3508.46 --> 3509.10] in their backyard -[3509.10 --> 3510.64] and then we just complain. -[3513.36 --> 3513.80] Right? -[3514.00 --> 3516.14] That's a harder community -[3516.14 --> 3518.98] to do shared life with. -[3519.26 --> 3520.58] And so that's a growing edge to me. -[3520.80 --> 3522.16] That's a place I'm called -[3522.16 --> 3523.28] to share my life -[3523.28 --> 3524.30] and I have to learn -[3524.30 --> 3525.60] how to get better in that. -[3526.24 --> 3527.38] Now, gratefully, -[3527.78 --> 3529.16] some of you who are parents -[3529.16 --> 3529.96] will know this -[3529.96 --> 3531.22] and know what this is like. -[3531.22 --> 3532.22] I have an eight-year-old son -[3532.22 --> 3533.78] who just goes out -[3533.78 --> 3534.40] and makes friends -[3534.40 --> 3535.52] with whomever he meets -[3535.52 --> 3536.80] and so slowly -[3536.80 --> 3538.46] we're gathering together -[3538.46 --> 3539.60] a gaggle of boys -[3539.60 --> 3540.72] who run all over the street -[3540.72 --> 3541.22] and we're starting -[3541.22 --> 3542.14] to meet their parents -[3542.14 --> 3542.88] and we're exchanging -[3542.88 --> 3543.64] cell phone numbers -[3543.64 --> 3545.22] so I can text Elise -[3545.22 --> 3545.76] down the road -[3545.76 --> 3546.10] and be like, -[3546.20 --> 3547.02] hey, is Malachi there? -[3547.10 --> 3547.92] Can you please send him home? -[3547.98 --> 3548.52] It's dinner time. -[3549.32 --> 3550.70] So maybe there's an opportunity -[3550.70 --> 3552.18] to start growing -[3552.18 --> 3553.46] and connecting. -[3554.70 --> 3556.66] But in our life together -[3556.66 --> 3557.52] as we think about -[3557.52 --> 3558.40] what this might look like -[3558.40 --> 3559.24] for all of us, -[3559.24 --> 3560.94] my hope is that -[3560.94 --> 3561.68] over the next year -[3561.68 --> 3563.42] we can start experimenting -[3563.42 --> 3564.10] together -[3564.10 --> 3564.66] and running -[3564.66 --> 3565.28] what I'm going to call -[3565.28 --> 3566.40] micro-experiments -[3566.40 --> 3567.34] in your neighborhoods, -[3567.64 --> 3568.26] in your homes, -[3568.38 --> 3569.36] in your soccer teams, -[3569.54 --> 3570.52] in wherever -[3570.52 --> 3571.72] so that we can learn -[3571.72 --> 3573.20] how to do this together. -[3575.08 --> 3576.12] The shared life -[3576.12 --> 3576.86] is collective -[3576.86 --> 3579.54] and as a collective -[3579.54 --> 3580.52] shared life -[3580.52 --> 3581.96] we are witnessing -[3581.96 --> 3583.94] to Jesus. -[3583.94 --> 3585.28] the shared life -[3585.28 --> 3587.18] is also contrastive -[3587.18 --> 3588.10] and you see this again -[3588.10 --> 3589.58] in our text, right? -[3589.66 --> 3590.32] Whatever happens, -[3590.46 --> 3591.24] conduct yourselves -[3591.24 --> 3592.74] in a manner worthy -[3592.74 --> 3594.78] of the gospel of Christ. -[3596.94 --> 3597.38] Right? -[3597.44 --> 3597.76] And then, -[3598.08 --> 3600.28] then whether I come -[3600.28 --> 3601.12] and see you -[3601.12 --> 3602.04] or only hear about you -[3602.04 --> 3602.62] in my absence, -[3602.76 --> 3603.38] I will know -[3603.38 --> 3605.14] that you stand firm -[3605.14 --> 3606.72] in the one spirit, -[3606.96 --> 3607.90] striving together -[3607.90 --> 3608.52] as one -[3608.52 --> 3609.10] for the faith -[3609.10 --> 3609.62] of the gospel -[3609.62 --> 3610.78] without being frightened -[3610.78 --> 3611.76] in any way -[3611.76 --> 3612.32] by those -[3612.32 --> 3613.54] who oppose you. -[3614.42 --> 3615.00] And he goes on to say, -[3615.12 --> 3615.96] this is a sign -[3615.96 --> 3616.50] to them -[3616.50 --> 3617.74] that they will be destroyed -[3617.74 --> 3618.32] but that you -[3618.32 --> 3619.06] will be saved -[3619.06 --> 3620.90] and that by God. -[3622.70 --> 3623.50] In the gather, -[3623.66 --> 3623.82] grow, -[3623.96 --> 3624.44] go model, -[3624.52 --> 3625.24] this is our grow. -[3626.52 --> 3627.40] This is our grow. -[3627.50 --> 3627.80] And again, -[3627.94 --> 3628.78] this idea -[3628.78 --> 3629.98] of the shared life -[3629.98 --> 3631.16] being contrastive -[3631.16 --> 3632.20] is all over the Bible. -[3632.60 --> 3633.26] We have a slide, -[3633.34 --> 3633.98] we'll throw that up. -[3634.06 --> 3634.22] Again, -[3634.38 --> 3635.22] there's lots of texts, -[3635.30 --> 3636.22] I'm not going to read them all -[3636.22 --> 3637.50] but let me just read -[3637.50 --> 3638.24] the first one there. -[3639.02 --> 3639.70] Dear friends, -[3639.92 --> 3640.64] I urge you -[3640.64 --> 3641.32] as foreigners -[3641.32 --> 3642.16] and exiles -[3642.16 --> 3642.92] to abstain -[3642.92 --> 3644.06] from sinful desires -[3644.06 --> 3645.62] which wage war -[3645.62 --> 3646.58] against your souls. -[3647.06 --> 3648.52] Live such good lives -[3648.52 --> 3649.58] among the pagans -[3649.58 --> 3650.96] and here's the contrastive part -[3650.96 --> 3652.42] that though they accuse you -[3652.42 --> 3653.22] of doing wrong, -[3653.82 --> 3655.44] they may see your good deeds -[3655.44 --> 3656.70] and glorify God -[3656.70 --> 3658.50] on the day he visits. -[3660.54 --> 3662.02] The shared life -[3662.02 --> 3663.86] of the church together -[3663.86 --> 3665.70] is contrastive -[3665.70 --> 3667.76] and part of what makes Christians -[3667.76 --> 3670.00] stand out in the world today -[3670.00 --> 3672.46] is our peculiar lives. -[3673.76 --> 3674.44] Now I know -[3674.44 --> 3675.50] that that terrifies -[3675.50 --> 3676.38] some of us. -[3677.48 --> 3677.90] This idea -[3677.90 --> 3679.00] of being strange -[3679.00 --> 3680.08] or peculiar -[3680.08 --> 3681.66] of being called out -[3681.66 --> 3682.52] as weird -[3682.52 --> 3683.88] or different. -[3685.54 --> 3687.84] But can I just say plainly -[3687.84 --> 3688.60] that it ought -[3688.60 --> 3689.72] to be the case -[3689.72 --> 3691.16] that people -[3691.16 --> 3693.26] who don't yet know Jesus, -[3693.48 --> 3694.02] who don't have -[3694.02 --> 3694.72] the Holy Spirit -[3694.72 --> 3695.56] in their lives, -[3695.74 --> 3696.68] look at us -[3696.68 --> 3697.66] who do know Jesus, -[3697.80 --> 3698.50] who are empowered -[3698.50 --> 3699.24] by the Holy Spirit, -[3699.46 --> 3699.92] and go, -[3700.46 --> 3700.96] there's something -[3700.96 --> 3701.90] different about them. -[3702.52 --> 3702.82] And yes, -[3702.90 --> 3703.62] sometimes that means -[3703.62 --> 3704.04] they're weird, -[3705.08 --> 3705.90] but sometimes -[3705.90 --> 3706.80] it also means -[3706.80 --> 3709.38] something compelling. -[3709.58 --> 3710.16] Sometimes it's going -[3710.16 --> 3710.64] to be negative, -[3710.78 --> 3711.26] sometimes it's going -[3711.26 --> 3711.92] to be insulting, -[3712.30 --> 3712.88] but sometimes -[3712.88 --> 3714.50] it should be inspirational. -[3716.44 --> 3717.14] And this truth, -[3717.24 --> 3717.60] actually, -[3717.74 --> 3719.64] it's always been this way. -[3721.10 --> 3721.58] Again, -[3721.66 --> 3722.60] this is a quote -[3722.60 --> 3723.66] that came up yesterday. -[3725.14 --> 3727.60] In the second century AD, -[3727.60 --> 3729.14] there's a letter -[3729.14 --> 3731.08] written to someone -[3731.08 --> 3732.38] named Diognetus -[3732.38 --> 3733.80] where he's discussing -[3733.80 --> 3735.86] Christians in the church, -[3736.06 --> 3736.88] and he highlights -[3736.88 --> 3739.04] this contrastive life. -[3739.38 --> 3739.60] He says, -[3740.06 --> 3740.78] they, Christians, -[3741.06 --> 3742.06] love all men -[3742.06 --> 3743.74] and are persecuted -[3743.74 --> 3744.56] by all. -[3745.28 --> 3746.08] They are poor, -[3746.26 --> 3747.92] yet they make many rich. -[3748.22 --> 3750.06] They lack in all things, -[3750.20 --> 3751.26] and yet they abound -[3751.26 --> 3752.16] in all. -[3753.12 --> 3754.12] There's a contrast -[3754.12 --> 3755.84] to our life, -[3755.90 --> 3758.16] not only in the world, -[3758.26 --> 3760.02] but also in how we be -[3760.02 --> 3761.52] and portray. -[3762.90 --> 3763.18] And so, -[3763.38 --> 3764.00] for instance, -[3764.60 --> 3765.52] in a world -[3765.52 --> 3766.90] that is saturated -[3766.90 --> 3768.24] with sex -[3768.24 --> 3769.36] and sexuality -[3769.36 --> 3770.58] or promiscuity, -[3771.12 --> 3772.30] Christians waiting -[3772.30 --> 3774.22] to give their sexual experience -[3774.22 --> 3775.40] to their spouse -[3775.40 --> 3777.52] is contrastive. -[3778.16 --> 3779.88] It doesn't make sense, -[3780.26 --> 3780.88] and yet, -[3781.20 --> 3782.36] there's something compelling -[3782.36 --> 3783.46] about that. -[3783.52 --> 3783.94] And in fact, -[3784.84 --> 3785.90] when I was younger, -[3786.32 --> 3787.00] hookup culture -[3787.00 --> 3788.38] was more profound -[3788.38 --> 3789.56] than it is now. -[3789.66 --> 3790.52] The younger generation -[3790.52 --> 3791.50] is starting to realize -[3791.50 --> 3793.02] that there's something here. -[3793.88 --> 3794.90] There's something compelling -[3794.90 --> 3797.48] about being more intentional -[3797.48 --> 3799.82] with our sexual experiences. -[3800.06 --> 3800.54] Christians -[3800.54 --> 3802.28] have always said this -[3802.28 --> 3803.02] from the beginning. -[3803.58 --> 3804.10] Or, -[3804.22 --> 3804.74] in a world -[3804.74 --> 3805.54] that's driven -[3805.54 --> 3806.62] by consumerism -[3806.62 --> 3807.80] and by the accumulation -[3807.80 --> 3808.96] of more and more -[3808.96 --> 3809.86] and more stuff, -[3809.86 --> 3811.40] being generous, -[3811.90 --> 3812.32] right, -[3812.38 --> 3812.94] with our money -[3812.94 --> 3813.98] or with our time -[3813.98 --> 3815.78] is a contrastive -[3815.78 --> 3816.60] way of being -[3816.60 --> 3817.30] in the world. -[3818.82 --> 3819.66] And so, -[3819.78 --> 3820.88] when your colleagues -[3820.88 --> 3821.90] are celebrating -[3821.90 --> 3823.94] their $12,000 vacation -[3823.94 --> 3825.20] to Hawaii, -[3826.34 --> 3828.76] you can celebrate -[3828.76 --> 3829.68] with church -[3829.68 --> 3831.92] your $12,000 gift -[3831.92 --> 3833.20] to our next -[3833.20 --> 3834.48] growth project. -[3834.48 --> 3840.82] That is contrastive. -[3841.62 --> 3842.40] In a world, -[3842.56 --> 3843.06] for instance, -[3843.18 --> 3844.40] that defaults -[3844.40 --> 3845.08] to the homogeneous -[3845.08 --> 3846.18] unit principle, -[3846.38 --> 3846.56] right, -[3846.62 --> 3847.40] where like gathers -[3847.40 --> 3848.00] onto like, -[3848.10 --> 3848.80] where we surround -[3848.80 --> 3850.38] ourselves with echo chambers, -[3851.60 --> 3852.56] Christians living -[3852.56 --> 3854.18] in intentional diversity -[3854.18 --> 3856.24] and multicultural realities, -[3856.46 --> 3857.52] prioritizing -[3857.52 --> 3859.54] the lifting up -[3859.54 --> 3860.22] and celebrating -[3860.22 --> 3861.02] of every tribe, -[3861.16 --> 3861.42] tongue, -[3861.52 --> 3862.20] and nation -[3862.20 --> 3864.18] is contrastive. -[3864.48 --> 3866.44] In a culture -[3866.44 --> 3868.22] that celebrates -[3868.22 --> 3869.10] busyness, -[3869.28 --> 3870.62] idolizes busyness, -[3870.80 --> 3872.08] practicing Sabbath -[3872.08 --> 3874.26] is contrastive. -[3875.60 --> 3876.74] In a world -[3876.74 --> 3877.56] where the loudest -[3877.56 --> 3879.46] voice gets attention, -[3880.02 --> 3880.50] and this is -[3880.50 --> 3881.28] my growing edge, -[3881.46 --> 3881.70] again, -[3881.82 --> 3882.44] I have one in here -[3882.44 --> 3883.60] for each section, -[3884.36 --> 3885.38] choosing to be -[3885.38 --> 3886.24] quick to listen -[3886.24 --> 3888.10] and slow to speak -[3888.10 --> 3889.82] is contrastive. -[3889.82 --> 3889.88] contrastive. -[3892.82 --> 3893.82] But also, -[3894.86 --> 3895.92] contrastive -[3895.92 --> 3898.12] is convicting. -[3899.34 --> 3899.98] Paul writes -[3899.98 --> 3900.46] that this -[3900.46 --> 3901.28] is a sign -[3901.28 --> 3901.78] to them -[3901.78 --> 3902.20] that they -[3902.20 --> 3903.02] will be destroyed -[3903.02 --> 3904.00] and that you -[3904.00 --> 3904.86] will be saved, -[3904.98 --> 3906.46] and that by God. -[3907.56 --> 3908.52] As we live -[3908.52 --> 3909.18] these kinds -[3909.18 --> 3910.08] of lives, -[3911.08 --> 3912.08] it says -[3912.08 --> 3912.88] in Proverbs, -[3913.34 --> 3915.14] to heap -[3915.14 --> 3915.98] burning coals -[3915.98 --> 3916.60] on someone, -[3916.74 --> 3917.58] you do good -[3917.58 --> 3918.20] to them. -[3919.54 --> 3919.98] Right? -[3920.04 --> 3921.10] To reveal -[3921.10 --> 3922.26] God's design -[3922.26 --> 3922.76] and plan -[3922.76 --> 3923.12] and will -[3923.12 --> 3923.78] for our lives -[3923.78 --> 3924.48] and the reality -[3924.48 --> 3925.10] of what happens -[3925.10 --> 3926.76] when we choose -[3926.76 --> 3928.02] other than Him. -[3929.54 --> 3931.10] Our contrastive -[3931.10 --> 3932.04] lives -[3932.04 --> 3933.28] are also -[3933.28 --> 3934.42] meant to be -[3934.42 --> 3935.26] convicting. -[3935.26 --> 3936.38] even as people -[3936.38 --> 3937.06] look at that -[3937.06 --> 3937.44] and go, -[3937.58 --> 3937.74] oh, -[3937.78 --> 3938.64] I want that, -[3938.82 --> 3939.48] they also -[3939.48 --> 3940.42] need to -[3940.42 --> 3941.06] one day -[3941.06 --> 3941.84] look at that -[3941.84 --> 3942.14] and go, -[3942.24 --> 3942.44] oh, -[3942.54 --> 3943.44] I missed -[3943.44 --> 3944.56] that. -[3946.70 --> 3947.34] And so, -[3947.48 --> 3947.90] my hope -[3947.90 --> 3948.46] for the next -[3948.46 --> 3948.88] year -[3948.88 --> 3949.42] is that we'll -[3949.42 --> 3950.20] run experiments -[3950.20 --> 3950.86] and we'll run -[3950.86 --> 3951.80] micro experiments, -[3952.22 --> 3952.54] you're going to -[3952.54 --> 3953.08] notice a theme -[3953.08 --> 3953.32] here, -[3953.44 --> 3954.00] where we can -[3954.00 --> 3954.72] practice those -[3954.72 --> 3955.46] things and learn -[3955.46 --> 3956.32] how to do that -[3956.32 --> 3957.56] and lean into -[3957.56 --> 3958.30] equipping each -[3958.30 --> 3958.64] other -[3958.64 --> 3960.06] for how to -[3960.06 --> 3960.70] live these -[3960.70 --> 3961.78] contrastive, -[3961.94 --> 3962.40] collective, -[3963.12 --> 3963.80] shared life -[3963.80 --> 3964.66] together. -[3966.24 --> 3966.62] Then, -[3966.82 --> 3967.24] the shared -[3967.24 --> 3967.98] life together -[3967.98 --> 3968.74] is also -[3968.74 --> 3969.72] called out. -[3970.44 --> 3970.72] And again, -[3970.80 --> 3971.32] we see that -[3971.32 --> 3972.16] in our text, -[3972.28 --> 3972.42] right? -[3973.18 --> 3974.14] Conduct yourselves -[3974.14 --> 3974.60] in a manner -[3974.60 --> 3975.84] worthy of -[3975.84 --> 3976.40] the gospel -[3976.40 --> 3977.04] of Christ, -[3977.68 --> 3977.92] right? -[3978.16 --> 3979.00] Conduct yourselves -[3979.00 --> 3979.42] in a manner -[3979.42 --> 3980.72] worthy of -[3980.72 --> 3981.22] the gospel -[3981.22 --> 3981.72] of Christ -[3981.72 --> 3982.26] to stand -[3982.26 --> 3982.88] firm -[3982.88 --> 3983.72] in one's -[3983.72 --> 3983.98] spirit, -[3984.16 --> 3985.34] striving together -[3985.34 --> 3985.98] as one -[3985.98 --> 3986.60] for the faith. -[3986.68 --> 3987.28] These are words -[3987.28 --> 3988.00] of being called -[3988.00 --> 3988.98] out so that -[3988.98 --> 3989.78] you will be -[3989.78 --> 3990.94] saved and -[3990.94 --> 3991.88] that by God, -[3992.10 --> 3992.58] Paul writes. -[3993.48 --> 3993.94] For it has been -[3993.94 --> 3994.72] granted to you -[3994.72 --> 3995.14] on behalf -[3995.14 --> 3995.52] of Christ, -[3995.58 --> 3996.12] not only to -[3996.12 --> 3997.38] believe in -[3997.38 --> 3997.72] him, -[3997.78 --> 3998.82] but also to -[3998.82 --> 4000.20] suffer for -[4000.20 --> 4000.46] him. -[4001.34 --> 4002.26] We are called -[4002.26 --> 4002.92] out, -[4002.92 --> 4003.94] right, -[4004.02 --> 4004.82] of our comfort -[4004.82 --> 4005.34] zones. -[4005.46 --> 4006.06] We are called -[4006.06 --> 4008.12] out as a sent -[4008.12 --> 4008.64] people, -[4008.88 --> 4010.14] and this is -[4010.14 --> 4011.06] our go. -[4012.44 --> 4012.98] And again, -[4013.18 --> 4014.08] it's all over the -[4014.08 --> 4014.32] Bible. -[4014.42 --> 4014.84] We have another -[4014.84 --> 4015.20] slide. -[4015.26 --> 4015.78] You can see it. -[4015.80 --> 4016.20] I'm not going to -[4016.20 --> 4016.70] read them all. -[4017.52 --> 4018.06] And in fact, -[4018.10 --> 4018.72] we've already heard -[4018.72 --> 4019.20] the first, -[4019.34 --> 4019.46] right? -[4019.54 --> 4020.28] As the Father -[4020.28 --> 4021.26] has sent me, -[4021.26 --> 4022.74] I am sending -[4022.74 --> 4023.50] you. -[4025.18 --> 4026.28] This is the -[4026.28 --> 4027.20] very identity -[4027.20 --> 4028.74] of the church. -[4029.08 --> 4029.56] The word -[4029.56 --> 4030.08] church, -[4030.20 --> 4031.10] that comes to -[4031.10 --> 4031.88] us from the -[4031.88 --> 4032.16] Greek. -[4033.04 --> 4033.46] It's -[4033.46 --> 4034.98] ekklesia in the -[4034.98 --> 4035.18] Greek. -[4035.32 --> 4036.12] It's a compound -[4036.12 --> 4036.86] word from -[4036.86 --> 4037.84] ek and -[4037.84 --> 4038.32] kalo, -[4038.88 --> 4039.48] which means -[4039.48 --> 4040.18] out of -[4040.18 --> 4040.74] and to -[4040.74 --> 4041.20] call. -[4041.20 --> 4042.12] So the word -[4042.12 --> 4043.02] means called -[4043.02 --> 4043.46] out, -[4044.18 --> 4044.48] summoned. -[4044.98 --> 4045.44] It means -[4045.44 --> 4046.04] sent, -[4046.60 --> 4046.74] right? -[4046.74 --> 4047.54] Being called -[4047.54 --> 4048.10] out or -[4048.10 --> 4049.20] summoned is -[4049.20 --> 4050.04] our very -[4050.04 --> 4050.78] identity. -[4051.26 --> 4051.74] That's what -[4051.74 --> 4052.86] church means. -[4053.90 --> 4054.28] And so when -[4054.28 --> 4054.62] you say, -[4054.74 --> 4055.12] I'm going to -[4055.12 --> 4055.56] church on -[4055.56 --> 4055.90] Sunday, -[4056.06 --> 4056.48] what you're -[4056.48 --> 4056.96] saying is, -[4057.10 --> 4057.76] I'm going to -[4057.76 --> 4058.14] the called -[4058.14 --> 4058.44] out, -[4059.76 --> 4060.04] or I'm -[4060.04 --> 4060.42] going to -[4060.42 --> 4061.18] be called -[4061.18 --> 4061.62] out. -[4062.44 --> 4062.84] I'm going -[4062.84 --> 4063.42] to be -[4063.42 --> 4064.00] summoned -[4064.00 --> 4065.28] in witness -[4065.28 --> 4066.04] to who -[4066.04 --> 4066.56] God is -[4066.56 --> 4066.84] and what -[4066.84 --> 4067.10] Jesus -[4067.10 --> 4067.94] has done. -[4068.16 --> 4068.58] Everything -[4068.58 --> 4069.56] we do -[4069.56 --> 4070.64] is characterized -[4070.64 --> 4071.88] by witness. -[4072.12 --> 4072.46] Sometimes -[4072.46 --> 4073.14] we have -[4073.14 --> 4074.48] this idea -[4074.48 --> 4074.84] in the -[4074.84 --> 4075.46] church that -[4075.46 --> 4076.22] mission, -[4076.74 --> 4077.36] or missions -[4077.36 --> 4078.00] is done -[4078.00 --> 4078.40] by a -[4078.40 --> 4078.72] committee -[4078.72 --> 4079.16] or by -[4079.16 --> 4079.70] a team -[4079.70 --> 4080.28] or by -[4080.28 --> 4080.82] a pastor -[4080.82 --> 4081.24] or by -[4081.24 --> 4081.68] a staff -[4081.68 --> 4082.04] person -[4082.04 --> 4082.34] or by -[4082.34 --> 4082.66] someone -[4082.66 --> 4083.06] we sent -[4083.06 --> 4083.66] to Mexico -[4083.66 --> 4084.44] or to -[4084.44 --> 4085.00] Costa Rica -[4085.00 --> 4085.94] or across -[4085.94 --> 4086.30] the world -[4086.30 --> 4086.68] somewhere. -[4088.54 --> 4089.02] You -[4089.02 --> 4090.22] are -[4090.22 --> 4091.14] sent. -[4091.90 --> 4092.54] Every one -[4092.54 --> 4092.94] of us -[4092.94 --> 4093.90] is sent. -[4094.06 --> 4094.60] This is -[4094.60 --> 4095.82] foundational -[4095.82 --> 4096.84] to what -[4096.84 --> 4097.30] it means -[4097.30 --> 4097.98] to be -[4097.98 --> 4098.90] the called -[4098.90 --> 4099.96] out ones. -[4100.66 --> 4100.94] Called -[4100.94 --> 4101.90] out of -[4101.90 --> 4102.42] the world, -[4102.62 --> 4102.88] called -[4102.88 --> 4103.64] out of -[4103.64 --> 4104.06] our sin, -[4104.26 --> 4104.54] called -[4104.54 --> 4105.02] out of -[4105.02 --> 4105.50] darkness -[4105.50 --> 4106.58] and sent -[4106.58 --> 4107.76] with the -[4107.76 --> 4108.06] message -[4108.06 --> 4108.60] of his -[4108.60 --> 4109.50] redemption, -[4110.12 --> 4110.38] sent -[4110.38 --> 4110.72] with the -[4110.72 --> 4111.14] gospel -[4111.14 --> 4112.08] of his -[4112.08 --> 4113.20] salvation. -[4114.42 --> 4115.12] So again, -[4115.26 --> 4115.82] my hope -[4115.82 --> 4116.22] over the -[4116.22 --> 4116.74] next year -[4116.74 --> 4117.16] is to run -[4117.16 --> 4117.76] experiments -[4117.76 --> 4118.32] and micro -[4118.32 --> 4118.78] experiments -[4118.78 --> 4119.20] about how -[4119.20 --> 4119.74] we might -[4119.74 --> 4120.76] do this, -[4121.16 --> 4121.44] about how -[4121.44 --> 4121.76] we can -[4121.76 --> 4122.24] live into -[4122.24 --> 4122.66] this -[4122.66 --> 4123.82] identity -[4123.82 --> 4125.12] together -[4125.12 --> 4125.72] as our -[4125.72 --> 4126.50] shared -[4126.50 --> 4127.16] life -[4127.16 --> 4127.76] also -[4127.76 --> 4128.62] includes -[4128.62 --> 4129.50] being -[4129.50 --> 4130.42] sent. -[4130.42 --> 4131.88] And -[4131.88 --> 4132.50] then lastly, -[4133.40 --> 4133.58] our -[4133.58 --> 4134.06] shared -[4134.06 --> 4134.92] life -[4134.92 --> 4135.38] is -[4135.38 --> 4136.08] collective, -[4136.68 --> 4137.12] it is -[4137.12 --> 4138.14] contrastive, -[4138.44 --> 4138.98] it is -[4138.98 --> 4139.34] called -[4139.34 --> 4139.74] out, -[4140.12 --> 4140.62] and then -[4140.62 --> 4141.60] when all -[4141.60 --> 4142.10] of those -[4142.10 --> 4142.82] things come -[4142.82 --> 4143.38] together, -[4143.68 --> 4144.32] I really -[4144.32 --> 4145.20] believe it -[4145.20 --> 4145.52] is -[4145.52 --> 4146.34] compelling. -[4147.42 --> 4147.92] It is -[4147.92 --> 4148.34] compelling. -[4148.58 --> 4148.78] Notice -[4148.78 --> 4149.84] what Paul -[4149.84 --> 4151.42] has written. -[4152.16 --> 4152.80] Whatever -[4152.80 --> 4153.50] happens, -[4153.96 --> 4154.22] conduct -[4154.22 --> 4154.86] yourselves -[4154.86 --> 4155.22] in a -[4155.22 --> 4155.48] manner -[4155.48 --> 4156.08] worthy -[4156.08 --> 4156.38] of the -[4156.38 --> 4156.68] gospel -[4156.68 --> 4157.22] of Christ. -[4157.22 --> 4157.94] Then -[4157.94 --> 4158.38] whether -[4158.38 --> 4159.14] I come -[4159.14 --> 4159.64] and see -[4159.64 --> 4159.96] you or -[4159.96 --> 4160.48] only hear -[4160.48 --> 4160.86] about you -[4160.86 --> 4161.14] in my -[4161.14 --> 4161.46] absence, -[4161.60 --> 4162.38] I will -[4162.38 --> 4162.98] know. -[4163.88 --> 4164.06] There is -[4164.06 --> 4164.24] something -[4164.24 --> 4164.82] compelling -[4164.82 --> 4165.84] about being -[4165.84 --> 4166.60] called to -[4166.60 --> 4167.08] conduct -[4167.08 --> 4167.64] ourselves -[4167.64 --> 4168.08] worthy -[4168.08 --> 4168.50] and then -[4168.50 --> 4168.96] seeing -[4168.96 --> 4169.18] that -[4169.18 --> 4169.54] happen. -[4169.90 --> 4169.98] And -[4169.98 --> 4170.12] there is -[4170.12 --> 4170.30] something -[4170.30 --> 4170.78] compelling -[4170.78 --> 4171.12] about -[4171.12 --> 4171.60] hearing -[4171.60 --> 4171.94] that -[4171.94 --> 4172.58] happening -[4172.58 --> 4172.90] in the -[4172.90 --> 4173.22] lives -[4173.22 --> 4173.40] of -[4173.40 --> 4173.78] people -[4173.78 --> 4174.36] and -[4174.36 --> 4174.74] seeing -[4174.74 --> 4175.02] that -[4175.02 --> 4175.36] happen -[4175.36 --> 4175.88] in the -[4175.88 --> 4176.12] lives -[4176.12 --> 4176.30] of -[4176.30 --> 4176.64] people -[4176.64 --> 4177.14] and -[4177.14 --> 4177.34] then -[4177.34 --> 4177.86] striving -[4177.86 --> 4178.32] together -[4178.32 --> 4178.60] as -[4178.60 --> 4178.90] one -[4178.90 --> 4179.10] for -[4179.10 --> 4179.24] the -[4179.24 --> 4179.48] faith -[4179.48 --> 4179.62] in -[4179.62 --> 4179.74] the -[4179.74 --> 4180.08] gospel -[4180.08 --> 4180.80] without -[4180.80 --> 4181.36] being -[4181.36 --> 4181.86] frightened -[4181.86 --> 4182.24] in -[4182.24 --> 4182.64] any -[4182.64 --> 4183.00] way -[4183.00 --> 4184.16] by those -[4184.16 --> 4184.30] who -[4184.30 --> 4184.66] oppose -[4184.66 --> 4184.88] you. -[4185.96 --> 4186.18] A -[4186.18 --> 4186.52] church -[4186.52 --> 4187.24] unafraid -[4187.24 --> 4187.68] of -[4187.68 --> 4188.14] this -[4188.14 --> 4188.78] calling -[4188.78 --> 4189.62] is -[4189.62 --> 4190.78] compelling. -[4192.24 --> 4192.54] And -[4192.54 --> 4192.84] again, -[4194.54 --> 4194.82] right, -[4194.92 --> 4195.44] this is -[4195.44 --> 4195.76] our -[4195.76 --> 4196.18] gather, -[4196.38 --> 4196.60] grow, -[4196.74 --> 4197.04] go -[4197.04 --> 4197.58] all -[4197.58 --> 4198.00] together. -[4198.82 --> 4199.48] And -[4199.48 --> 4199.86] yes, -[4200.02 --> 4200.50] this too -[4200.50 --> 4201.56] is all -[4201.56 --> 4202.14] over -[4202.14 --> 4202.74] the -[4202.74 --> 4203.14] Bible. -[4203.88 --> 4204.24] Let me -[4204.24 --> 4204.64] show you -[4204.64 --> 4205.34] just two. -[4206.02 --> 4206.24] Matthew -[4206.24 --> 4206.74] 5, -[4206.82 --> 4207.38] 16. -[4207.58 --> 4207.84] In the -[4207.84 --> 4208.50] same way, -[4208.64 --> 4209.00] let your -[4209.00 --> 4209.76] light shine -[4209.76 --> 4210.60] before others -[4210.60 --> 4211.02] that they -[4211.02 --> 4211.58] may see -[4211.58 --> 4212.16] your good -[4212.16 --> 4212.56] deeds -[4212.56 --> 4213.96] and glorify -[4213.96 --> 4214.54] your -[4214.54 --> 4214.94] Father -[4214.94 --> 4215.68] in heaven. -[4216.52 --> 4216.82] And -[4216.82 --> 4217.42] 1 Peter, -[4217.50 --> 4217.76] I think -[4217.76 --> 4218.06] we read -[4218.06 --> 4218.42] this already, -[4218.52 --> 4218.88] live such -[4218.88 --> 4219.38] good lives -[4219.38 --> 4219.74] among the -[4219.74 --> 4220.16] pagans that -[4220.16 --> 4220.42] though they -[4220.42 --> 4220.94] accuse you -[4220.94 --> 4221.24] of doing -[4221.24 --> 4221.62] wrong, -[4221.98 --> 4222.26] they may -[4222.26 --> 4222.78] see your -[4222.78 --> 4223.34] good deeds -[4223.34 --> 4224.52] and glorify -[4224.52 --> 4225.18] God on -[4225.18 --> 4225.56] the day -[4225.56 --> 4226.56] he visits. -[4227.98 --> 4228.34] Doing -[4228.34 --> 4228.92] these -[4228.92 --> 4229.52] good -[4229.52 --> 4230.20] deeds, -[4230.38 --> 4231.10] living in -[4231.10 --> 4231.54] this -[4231.54 --> 4232.20] shared -[4232.20 --> 4232.80] life -[4232.80 --> 4233.36] together, -[4233.36 --> 4234.08] is -[4234.08 --> 4234.74] compelling -[4234.74 --> 4235.74] to the -[4235.74 --> 4235.92] world -[4235.92 --> 4236.22] around -[4236.22 --> 4236.56] us. -[4236.96 --> 4237.06] And -[4237.06 --> 4237.26] again, -[4237.34 --> 4237.76] this has -[4237.76 --> 4238.32] been the -[4238.32 --> 4238.78] testimony -[4238.78 --> 4239.80] of the -[4239.80 --> 4240.28] church -[4240.28 --> 4240.90] for -[4240.90 --> 4241.96] generations -[4241.96 --> 4242.62] and -[4242.62 --> 4243.34] millennia. -[4243.34 --> 4245.64] again, -[4245.76 --> 4246.10] I quoted -[4246.10 --> 4246.40] this -[4246.40 --> 4246.80] yesterday, -[4246.96 --> 4247.40] but as -[4247.40 --> 4248.30] Paul already -[4248.30 --> 4248.86] alluded to, -[4248.98 --> 4249.38] these things -[4249.38 --> 4250.08] are returning, -[4250.24 --> 4250.66] these themes -[4250.66 --> 4251.62] are repeating, -[4251.94 --> 4252.68] and so we -[4252.68 --> 4253.50] listen with -[4253.50 --> 4254.40] careful ears. -[4255.38 --> 4256.00] The Roman -[4256.00 --> 4256.58] emperor -[4256.58 --> 4257.26] Julian, -[4258.38 --> 4258.92] who -[4258.92 --> 4260.26] reigned in -[4260.26 --> 4260.76] the fourth -[4260.76 --> 4261.34] century, -[4261.72 --> 4262.24] who had -[4262.24 --> 4263.02] no love -[4263.02 --> 4263.78] loss for -[4263.78 --> 4264.28] Christians, -[4264.78 --> 4265.58] and worked -[4265.58 --> 4266.00] and took -[4266.00 --> 4266.34] it upon -[4266.34 --> 4267.18] himself to -[4267.18 --> 4268.20] bring a -[4268.20 --> 4268.94] resurgence, -[4269.16 --> 4270.32] a revitalization, -[4270.48 --> 4271.08] a revival, -[4271.26 --> 4271.70] if you will, -[4271.70 --> 4272.38] of the -[4272.38 --> 4272.98] Roman -[4272.98 --> 4273.76] religion, -[4273.90 --> 4274.24] the Roman -[4274.24 --> 4275.00] pantheon. -[4275.70 --> 4276.82] He was -[4276.82 --> 4277.96] the -[4277.96 --> 4279.02] Josiah of -[4279.02 --> 4279.36] the Old -[4279.36 --> 4280.08] Testament to -[4280.08 --> 4280.46] the Roman -[4280.46 --> 4280.90] Empire. -[4281.20 --> 4281.66] That was -[4281.66 --> 4282.16] his goal, -[4282.44 --> 4283.44] to restore -[4283.44 --> 4284.78] to Rome -[4284.78 --> 4285.82] the practice -[4285.82 --> 4286.36] of their -[4286.36 --> 4286.74] pagan -[4286.74 --> 4287.56] religion. -[4287.70 --> 4287.96] And he -[4287.96 --> 4288.48] writes a -[4288.48 --> 4288.86] letter that -[4288.86 --> 4289.28] we have -[4289.28 --> 4289.80] saved in -[4289.80 --> 4291.04] history to -[4291.04 --> 4291.44] the high -[4291.44 --> 4292.52] priest of -[4292.52 --> 4293.02] Galatia. -[4293.94 --> 4294.64] He says, -[4294.88 --> 4295.90] of Christians, -[4296.06 --> 4296.70] it is their -[4296.70 --> 4297.64] benevolence to -[4297.64 --> 4298.12] strangers, -[4298.68 --> 4299.34] their care for -[4299.34 --> 4299.90] the graves of -[4299.90 --> 4300.26] the dead, -[4300.38 --> 4300.92] their pretended -[4300.92 --> 4301.68] holiness of -[4301.68 --> 4302.14] their lives, -[4302.24 --> 4302.72] that have -[4302.72 --> 4303.48] done most to -[4303.48 --> 4304.10] increase -[4304.10 --> 4304.76] atheism. -[4305.54 --> 4305.66] Now, -[4305.68 --> 4306.54] atheism is what -[4306.54 --> 4306.90] the Romans -[4306.90 --> 4307.90] called Christianity -[4307.90 --> 4309.32] because we only -[4309.32 --> 4310.10] worship one God. -[4310.72 --> 4311.08] And so they -[4311.08 --> 4311.60] thought that was -[4311.60 --> 4311.96] atheist. -[4312.82 --> 4313.48] He goes on to -[4313.48 --> 4313.96] say that, -[4314.36 --> 4315.26] I believe we, -[4315.58 --> 4316.26] the pagans, -[4316.76 --> 4318.10] ought really to -[4318.10 --> 4319.36] truly practice -[4319.36 --> 4320.14] every one of -[4320.14 --> 4320.72] these virtues. -[4322.14 --> 4322.64] And so what -[4322.64 --> 4323.80] he's saying is -[4323.80 --> 4324.06] that, -[4324.30 --> 4324.70] you see what -[4324.70 --> 4325.24] those Christians -[4325.24 --> 4325.70] are doing? -[4326.30 --> 4327.06] That's exactly -[4327.06 --> 4327.56] what we need -[4327.56 --> 4327.90] to do. -[4329.08 --> 4329.58] And it was -[4329.58 --> 4330.50] compelling to -[4330.50 --> 4330.76] him. -[4331.68 --> 4332.46] Even if -[4332.46 --> 4333.16] he longed -[4333.16 --> 4334.20] for an -[4334.20 --> 4334.90] application in -[4334.90 --> 4335.26] a totally -[4335.26 --> 4335.56] different -[4335.56 --> 4336.00] direction. -[4337.64 --> 4339.26] He is -[4339.26 --> 4340.82] seeing that -[4340.82 --> 4341.56] our shared -[4341.56 --> 4342.68] life together -[4342.68 --> 4343.80] as a witness -[4343.80 --> 4345.66] is compelling, -[4347.14 --> 4348.20] draws people -[4348.20 --> 4349.16] into who -[4349.16 --> 4350.16] Jesus is. -[4350.24 --> 4350.82] He says -[4350.82 --> 4353.54] that we -[4353.54 --> 4354.22] ought to -[4354.22 --> 4355.18] practice every -[4355.18 --> 4356.02] one of these -[4356.02 --> 4356.92] virtues. -[4356.92 --> 4356.98] believers. -[4357.56 --> 4357.94] And so, -[4358.72 --> 4360.74] if you're -[4360.74 --> 4361.46] here today -[4361.46 --> 4362.40] and your -[4362.40 --> 4363.18] practice of -[4363.18 --> 4363.72] Christianity -[4363.72 --> 4364.78] has not -[4364.78 --> 4365.42] included these -[4365.42 --> 4365.84] virtues, -[4366.24 --> 4366.74] has not -[4366.74 --> 4367.36] included these -[4367.36 --> 4367.90] disciplines, -[4368.84 --> 4369.32] maybe it -[4369.32 --> 4369.70] takes the -[4369.70 --> 4370.18] word of a -[4370.18 --> 4370.78] pagan emperor -[4370.78 --> 4371.96] to call you -[4371.96 --> 4372.30] back to -[4372.30 --> 4372.68] service, -[4373.44 --> 4374.44] to call you -[4374.44 --> 4374.86] out on -[4374.86 --> 4375.70] witness and -[4375.70 --> 4376.74] mission with -[4376.74 --> 4377.06] Jesus. -[4377.74 --> 4378.38] For this is -[4378.38 --> 4378.90] who we are. -[4380.28 --> 4380.50] Jeff -[4380.50 --> 4381.02] Vanderstelt -[4381.02 --> 4381.88] summarizes all -[4381.88 --> 4382.20] of this. -[4382.30 --> 4382.64] He says, -[4382.64 --> 4383.16] live your -[4383.16 --> 4383.80] lives in -[4383.80 --> 4384.40] such a way -[4384.40 --> 4384.78] that it -[4384.78 --> 4386.02] demands a -[4386.02 --> 4386.52] gospel -[4386.52 --> 4387.50] explanation. -[4388.62 --> 4389.14] That's our -[4389.14 --> 4390.04] goal in -[4390.04 --> 4390.50] this next -[4390.50 --> 4390.94] year, that -[4390.94 --> 4391.76] together we -[4391.76 --> 4392.28] live our -[4392.28 --> 4392.74] lives in -[4392.74 --> 4393.26] such a way -[4393.26 --> 4393.54] that no -[4393.54 --> 4393.96] matter where -[4393.96 --> 4394.46] we are, -[4395.42 --> 4396.62] it demands -[4396.62 --> 4397.10] a gospel -[4397.10 --> 4397.76] explanation. -[4399.40 --> 4399.96] We're going -[4399.96 --> 4400.40] to live in -[4400.40 --> 4400.90] this way, -[4401.38 --> 4402.10] and I hope -[4402.10 --> 4402.84] and pray -[4402.84 --> 4403.60] that you -[4403.60 --> 4404.36] will follow -[4404.36 --> 4405.34] along. -[4405.70 --> 4406.18] But not only -[4406.18 --> 4406.68] follow, I -[4406.68 --> 4407.22] hope and pray -[4407.22 --> 4407.66] that you will -[4407.66 --> 4408.78] lead in this -[4408.78 --> 4409.46] direction or -[4409.46 --> 4410.32] lead in this -[4410.32 --> 4410.78] area, that -[4410.78 --> 4411.90] you will stand -[4411.90 --> 4412.44] out there and -[4412.44 --> 4413.62] call us -[4413.62 --> 4415.36] towards where -[4415.36 --> 4415.78] God has -[4415.78 --> 4416.28] called you, -[4417.00 --> 4417.50] because we -[4417.50 --> 4418.14] do this -[4418.14 --> 4419.04] together. -[4420.46 --> 4421.02] I'm going to -[4421.02 --> 4421.94] end here and -[4421.94 --> 4422.74] want to -[4422.74 --> 4423.26] introduce -[4423.26 --> 4423.96] something to -[4423.96 --> 4424.12] you. -[4424.96 --> 4425.52] I've been -[4425.52 --> 4426.04] communicating -[4426.04 --> 4426.54] with the -[4426.54 --> 4427.08] liturgical -[4427.08 --> 4427.92] arts team, -[4428.96 --> 4430.32] and we -[4430.32 --> 4431.02] are working -[4431.02 --> 4431.82] on a way -[4431.82 --> 4433.88] to remind -[4433.88 --> 4434.82] us of -[4434.82 --> 4436.06] this mission, -[4436.36 --> 4437.00] remind us -[4437.00 --> 4437.62] of this -[4437.62 --> 4438.50] shared life -[4438.50 --> 4439.18] and witness -[4439.18 --> 4439.90] to wherever -[4439.90 --> 4440.68] we go -[4440.68 --> 4442.12] each week -[4442.12 --> 4442.76] over the -[4442.76 --> 4443.10] course of -[4443.10 --> 4443.36] the next -[4443.36 --> 4443.60] year. -[4444.66 --> 4445.12] And so, -[4445.36 --> 4445.92] what we -[4445.92 --> 4446.44] are asking -[4446.44 --> 4447.04] of you -[4447.04 --> 4447.76] is for -[4447.76 --> 4448.48] you to -[4448.48 --> 4449.78] take a -[4449.78 --> 4450.92] picture of -[4450.92 --> 4451.54] a place -[4451.54 --> 4452.38] that you -[4452.38 --> 4453.26] love, -[4453.34 --> 4454.06] or a place -[4454.06 --> 4454.48] that has -[4454.48 --> 4455.14] meaning to -[4455.14 --> 4455.66] you, -[4456.06 --> 4456.80] either in -[4456.80 --> 4457.26] our church -[4457.26 --> 4457.68] neighborhood, -[4457.98 --> 4458.36] or in the -[4458.36 --> 4458.68] neighborhoods -[4458.68 --> 4459.32] around your -[4459.32 --> 4459.78] homes, -[4460.10 --> 4460.68] or your -[4460.68 --> 4460.98] work -[4460.98 --> 4461.54] neighborhoods, -[4461.90 --> 4462.54] a place -[4462.54 --> 4462.90] that has -[4462.90 --> 4463.54] meaning to -[4463.54 --> 4463.98] you, -[4464.78 --> 4465.52] and somewhere -[4465.52 --> 4465.98] that you -[4465.98 --> 4467.34] return to, -[4467.44 --> 4467.98] that you do -[4467.98 --> 4468.82] life in, -[4468.82 --> 4470.30] we want -[4470.30 --> 4470.48] you to -[4470.48 --> 4470.76] take a -[4470.76 --> 4471.18] picture of -[4471.18 --> 4471.40] that. -[4472.28 --> 4472.50] And so, -[4472.58 --> 4473.18] maybe it's -[4473.18 --> 4473.56] a park -[4473.56 --> 4474.22] bench that -[4474.22 --> 4474.46] you love -[4474.46 --> 4474.78] to sit -[4474.78 --> 4474.98] on, -[4475.04 --> 4475.18] or you -[4475.18 --> 4475.48] love to -[4475.48 --> 4475.86] meet someone -[4475.86 --> 4476.20] at and -[4476.20 --> 4476.46] have a -[4476.46 --> 4476.90] conversation -[4476.90 --> 4477.22] with, -[4477.62 --> 4478.10] maybe it's -[4478.10 --> 4478.54] a hike -[4478.54 --> 4478.92] that you -[4478.92 --> 4479.28] like to -[4479.28 --> 4479.58] walk, -[4480.10 --> 4481.02] maybe it's -[4481.02 --> 4481.32] your -[4481.32 --> 4481.98] workplace, -[4482.68 --> 4483.62] maybe it's -[4483.62 --> 4484.12] Starbucks, -[4484.40 --> 4484.94] or a corner -[4484.94 --> 4485.66] of Starbucks, -[4486.22 --> 4486.76] maybe it's a -[4486.76 --> 4487.30] sports field, -[4487.42 --> 4487.80] or a rink, -[4487.88 --> 4488.30] or a running -[4488.30 --> 4488.66] track, -[4488.76 --> 4489.20] or a park -[4489.20 --> 4489.46] that you -[4489.46 --> 4489.84] play at, -[4489.86 --> 4490.22] or a pool -[4490.22 --> 4490.66] you like to -[4490.66 --> 4491.06] swim in, -[4491.36 --> 4492.28] wherever you -[4492.28 --> 4492.80] spend your -[4492.80 --> 4493.28] time, -[4494.58 --> 4494.82] right, -[4494.82 --> 4495.34] whether that's -[4495.34 --> 4497.00] on Saturday -[4497.00 --> 4497.94] at Porter's, -[4498.10 --> 4499.16] or on Tuesday -[4499.16 --> 4500.00] at A and W -[4500.00 --> 4500.68] for breakfast, -[4500.98 --> 4501.32] or wherever -[4501.32 --> 4501.80] you spend -[4501.80 --> 4502.28] your time, -[4503.00 --> 4503.62] that's your -[4503.62 --> 4504.32] mission field, -[4505.04 --> 4506.12] that's where -[4506.12 --> 4506.82] you are sent, -[4507.64 --> 4508.58] that is where -[4508.58 --> 4509.42] you are called -[4509.42 --> 4510.10] to gather, -[4510.52 --> 4510.74] grow, -[4510.88 --> 4511.34] and go. -[4512.50 --> 4512.80] And so, -[4512.86 --> 4513.16] we're going to -[4513.16 --> 4513.68] ask you to -[4513.68 --> 4514.18] submit those -[4514.18 --> 4514.62] pictures, -[4515.14 --> 4515.78] and then we're -[4515.78 --> 4516.12] going to put -[4516.12 --> 4517.10] them up along -[4517.10 --> 4518.46] the back wall -[4518.46 --> 4519.10] on the valence -[4519.10 --> 4519.58] or above, -[4519.66 --> 4519.98] we're still -[4519.98 --> 4520.50] working out the -[4520.50 --> 4520.88] details, -[4521.44 --> 4522.54] and throughout -[4522.54 --> 4523.18] it will say -[4523.18 --> 4523.52] gather, -[4523.98 --> 4524.22] grow, -[4524.56 --> 4524.80] go, -[4524.82 --> 4524.94] grow, -[4525.44 --> 4525.82] hear. -[4527.32 --> 4527.94] And so, -[4528.02 --> 4528.40] we're taking -[4528.40 --> 4528.98] the mission -[4528.98 --> 4529.46] statement of -[4529.46 --> 4530.00] this church, -[4530.04 --> 4530.46] and we are -[4530.46 --> 4531.86] walking out -[4531.86 --> 4532.52] under it -[4532.52 --> 4533.32] each week, -[4533.68 --> 4534.76] so that those -[4534.76 --> 4535.30] places, -[4536.18 --> 4537.10] your hears, -[4537.38 --> 4537.84] wherever that -[4537.84 --> 4538.18] is, -[4538.48 --> 4539.18] is where you -[4539.18 --> 4539.90] are witnessing -[4539.90 --> 4540.70] in shared -[4540.70 --> 4541.28] life, -[4541.32 --> 4541.74] and where you -[4541.74 --> 4542.80] are reminded, -[4543.22 --> 4543.42] right? -[4543.46 --> 4543.62] So, -[4543.74 --> 4544.18] wherever you -[4544.18 --> 4544.42] are, -[4544.56 --> 4545.14] wherever you -[4545.14 --> 4546.10] already love, -[4546.84 --> 4547.54] that's where -[4547.54 --> 4548.14] God is sending -[4548.14 --> 4548.38] you. -[4549.60 --> 4550.04] And so, -[4550.10 --> 4550.24] please, -[4550.32 --> 4550.80] take a picture -[4550.80 --> 4551.18] of it, -[4551.72 --> 4552.32] and send it -[4552.32 --> 4552.50] in, -[4552.56 --> 4553.02] you can send -[4553.02 --> 4553.46] it in via -[4553.46 --> 4554.34] email to -[4554.34 --> 4555.44] communications -[4555.44 --> 4555.92] at -[4555.92 --> 4557.34] l-i-c-r-c.ca, -[4557.50 --> 4557.96] or you can -[4557.96 --> 4558.50] text it to -[4558.50 --> 4558.76] me, -[4558.92 --> 4559.40] and then I -[4559.40 --> 4559.86] will forward -[4559.86 --> 4560.12] it, -[4560.30 --> 4560.88] and we will -[4560.88 --> 4561.88] gather them -[4561.88 --> 4562.18] up, -[4562.80 --> 4563.62] and we will -[4563.62 --> 4565.20] work on this -[4565.20 --> 4566.22] installation -[4566.22 --> 4567.46] together. -[4567.80 --> 4568.22] You will get -[4568.22 --> 4568.98] regular reminders -[4568.98 --> 4569.70] for this, -[4569.84 --> 4570.30] but if you were -[4570.30 --> 4571.22] to send an -[4571.22 --> 4572.08] influx of two -[4572.08 --> 4572.68] or three hundred -[4572.68 --> 4573.52] pictures over the -[4573.52 --> 4573.94] next week, -[4574.02 --> 4574.64] then the liturgical -[4574.64 --> 4575.20] arts team would -[4575.20 --> 4575.58] know how much -[4575.58 --> 4576.16] wall space they -[4576.16 --> 4576.34] need. -[4576.34 --> 4581.24] as we go -[4581.24 --> 4583.28] in this -[4583.28 --> 4584.42] shared life, -[4585.26 --> 4586.04] this table -[4586.04 --> 4587.68] becomes for us -[4587.68 --> 4588.32] a picture -[4588.32 --> 4589.34] of what's -[4589.34 --> 4589.66] happening. -[4590.26 --> 4590.66] So, -[4590.72 --> 4591.12] we gather -[4591.12 --> 4591.86] around this -[4591.86 --> 4592.58] table to be -[4592.58 --> 4593.66] sustained and -[4593.66 --> 4594.14] nourished, -[4594.18 --> 4594.68] and then we -[4594.68 --> 4596.00] go to our -[4596.00 --> 4596.84] various other -[4596.84 --> 4597.26] tables, -[4597.56 --> 4598.82] and we gather -[4598.82 --> 4599.50] around them, -[4599.68 --> 4600.32] and we share -[4600.32 --> 4600.80] what happens -[4600.80 --> 4601.06] here. -[4601.80 --> 4602.00] And so, -[4602.08 --> 4602.52] as we come -[4602.52 --> 4603.22] to this table -[4603.22 --> 4604.12] in our Lord's -[4604.12 --> 4604.68] Supper now, -[4604.68 --> 4606.90] keep that in -[4606.90 --> 4607.54] your mind, -[4608.02 --> 4608.60] that as you -[4608.60 --> 4609.36] gather here, -[4610.02 --> 4610.26] right, -[4610.34 --> 4611.84] as Jesus is -[4611.84 --> 4612.82] revealed to you -[4612.82 --> 4613.32] in the breaking -[4613.32 --> 4614.02] of bread and -[4614.02 --> 4614.74] the drinking -[4614.74 --> 4615.46] of the juice, -[4616.28 --> 4617.62] be inspired -[4617.62 --> 4619.00] to go and -[4619.00 --> 4620.02] reveal Him -[4620.02 --> 4620.92] wherever you -[4620.92 --> 4621.48] break bread, -[4622.06 --> 4622.44] wherever you -[4622.44 --> 4623.14] drink juice -[4623.14 --> 4624.14] throughout the -[4624.14 --> 4624.40] week. -[4625.26 --> 4625.50] Amen? -[4626.70 --> 4627.30] Amen. -[4627.48 --> 4628.14] Let me lead -[4628.14 --> 4628.68] you in prayer. -[4632.82 --> 4633.80] Holy God, -[4633.80 --> 4634.94] Heavenly Father, -[4635.72 --> 4636.82] we come to -[4636.82 --> 4637.62] you now at -[4637.62 --> 4638.18] this time -[4638.18 --> 4640.02] because you -[4640.02 --> 4641.04] have first -[4641.04 --> 4642.12] come to -[4642.12 --> 4642.48] us. -[4643.78 --> 4644.56] And so, -[4644.64 --> 4644.92] we pray, -[4645.04 --> 4645.54] Lord God, -[4645.92 --> 4646.94] build us -[4646.94 --> 4647.44] up. -[4649.26 --> 4650.10] Build us -[4650.10 --> 4650.56] up and -[4650.56 --> 4651.22] draw us -[4651.22 --> 4651.88] closer to -[4651.88 --> 4652.40] you and -[4652.40 --> 4653.48] closer to -[4653.48 --> 4653.84] each other, -[4653.90 --> 4654.30] that our -[4654.30 --> 4655.20] shared life -[4655.20 --> 4655.58] might, -[4655.90 --> 4656.16] in fact, -[4656.24 --> 4656.86] be a -[4656.86 --> 4658.10] witness to -[4658.10 --> 4658.48] the world. -[4660.62 --> 4661.56] That as we -[4661.56 --> 4662.94] display our -[4662.94 --> 4664.02] collective -[4664.02 --> 4665.14] lives together, -[4665.22 --> 4665.56] as we -[4665.56 --> 4666.26] display our -[4666.26 --> 4667.08] contrastive, -[4667.44 --> 4667.86] called-out -[4667.86 --> 4668.20] lives, -[4668.26 --> 4668.58] that they -[4668.58 --> 4669.18] would be -[4669.18 --> 4669.92] compelling -[4669.92 --> 4671.60] to a world -[4671.60 --> 4672.46] that is hungry -[4672.46 --> 4673.26] to encounter -[4673.26 --> 4673.62] you. -[4674.34 --> 4675.38] Use us -[4675.38 --> 4677.40] that people -[4677.40 --> 4678.26] might see -[4678.26 --> 4678.86] you, -[4679.20 --> 4679.64] Lord Jesus. -[4680.80 --> 4681.58] Nourish us -[4681.58 --> 4682.34] at this table -[4682.34 --> 4683.70] that we -[4683.70 --> 4684.40] might go -[4684.40 --> 4685.08] and be -[4685.08 --> 4685.68] salt and -[4685.68 --> 4686.68] light in -[4686.68 --> 4687.04] the world. -[4687.78 --> 4688.26] In Jesus' -[4688.46 --> 4688.76] name we -[4688.76 --> 4689.00] pray. -[4689.66 --> 4690.04] Amen. -[4690.04 --> 4690.12] Amen. -[4690.12 --> 4690.16] Amen. -[4690.16 --> 4690.18] Amen. -[4690.18 --> 4690.20] Amen. -[4690.20 --> 4690.24] Amen. -[4692.94 --> 4693.38] Amen. -[4704.18 --> 4705.52] Come send -[4705.52 --> 4706.30] your rule -[4706.30 --> 4707.64] and reign -[4707.64 --> 4708.98] in our -[4709.02 --> 4710.06] hearts -[4710.06 --> 4711.26] again. -[4711.84 --> 4713.06] Increase -[4713.06 --> 4713.70] in us -[4713.70 --> 4714.94] we pray. -[4715.26 --> 4716.10] Unveil -[4716.88 --> 4717.92] why we're -[4717.92 --> 4718.90] gay. -[4719.38 --> 4719.98] Come send -[4719.98 --> 4721.36] our hearts -[4721.36 --> 4723.14] Our place in gold -[4723.14 --> 4727.26] Our choir in our 865 -[4727.26 --> 4732.50] Holy Spirit, come, in need of sand -[4732.50 --> 4738.14] We are your churches -[4738.14 --> 4744.30] And we need your power in us -[4744.30 --> 4764.30] We sing your kingdom first, we hunger and we thirst, we refuse to waste our lives, for you're our joy and pride. -[4764.30 --> 4778.22] To see the captives' hearts to peace, to hurt the sick, the poor at peace, we may tell our lives for heaven's call. -[4780.56 --> 4789.14] We are your church, we pray revive this earth. -[4794.30 --> 4801.56] Build your kingdom here, let the darkness hear. -[4801.88 --> 4809.08] Show your mighty hand, ye Lord's free and land. -[4809.08 --> 4816.42] Let your church apply with this nation back. -[4816.86 --> 4824.22] Change the atmosphere, build your kingdom here. -[4824.30 --> 4826.30] We pray. -[4831.88 --> 4835.44] Unleash your kingdom's power. -[4835.82 --> 4839.18] Reaching the here and far. -[4839.60 --> 4842.72] No force of crown can stop. -[4843.26 --> 4846.72] Your beauty changing hearts. -[4846.72 --> 4850.94] You've made us more much more than this. -[4850.94 --> 4854.74] A way that he's out seeing us. -[4854.74 --> 4861.36] Fill us with the strength of our Christ. -[4861.36 --> 4864.98] We are your church. -[4864.98 --> 4872.18] We are the hope on earth. -[4872.18 --> 4876.76] Fill us with the strength of our God. -[4876.76 --> 4879.76] Build your kingdom here. -[4879.76 --> 4883.32] Let the darkness hear. -[4883.32 --> 4887.08] Show your mighty hand. -[4887.48 --> 4890.86] Heal our streets and land. -[4890.86 --> 4894.56] Set your church up high. -[4894.56 --> 4898.18] With this nation back. -[4898.18 --> 4901.94] Take the atmosphere. -[4902.14 --> 4905.70] Build your kingdom here. -[4905.70 --> 4907.90] We pray. -[4907.90 --> 4908.24] We pray. -[4908.24 --> 4910.08] We pray. -[4910.08 --> 4912.20] We pray. -[4912.20 --> 4931.98] As we come now to the table of our Lord, we have the opportunity to do so together. -[4931.98 --> 4938.70] And we do so with a little bit of a liturgy words that you are invited to speak and hear -[4938.70 --> 4939.66] as we go through. -[4939.66 --> 4941.08] You'll see it on the screen. -[4941.52 --> 4946.24] Please speak those words that are indicated by people for you to say. -[4947.14 --> 4950.30] And so we lift up our hearts. -[4950.96 --> 4953.06] We lift up our hearts. -[4953.06 --> 4955.30] Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. -[4955.94 --> 4958.28] It is right for us to give thanks. -[4958.96 --> 4959.74] Let's pray together. -[4961.26 --> 4964.76] With joy, we praise you, gracious God. -[4965.34 --> 4967.90] For you have created heaven and earth. -[4968.64 --> 4973.50] You have made us in your image and kept covenant with us even when we fell into sin. -[4974.20 --> 4979.86] We give you thanks for Jesus Christ, who by his life, death, and resurrection opened to -[4979.86 --> 4982.50] us the way of life everlasting. -[4983.06 --> 4983.82] Amen. -[4986.14 --> 4994.12] Jesus, before he suffered, gave us this memorial of his sacrifice until he comes again. -[4995.00 --> 4999.18] And the Lord Jesus, on the night that he was betrayed, took bread. -[4999.92 --> 5002.82] And when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, -[5003.24 --> 5006.10] This is my body, which is for you. -[5006.76 --> 5009.18] Do this in remembrance of me. -[5009.18 --> 5015.00] In the same way, he took the cup after supper and said, -[5015.48 --> 5018.80] This cup is the new covenant in my blood. -[5019.94 --> 5025.14] Do this whenever you drink it in remembrance of me. -[5025.14 --> 5034.66] For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes again. -[5035.60 --> 5039.18] This is the mystery of our faith. -[5039.18 --> 5042.84] Your death, O Christ, we proclaim. -[5043.46 --> 5045.58] Your resurrection, we affirm. -[5046.68 --> 5049.12] Your coming, we await with hope. -[5049.94 --> 5052.06] Glory be to you, Lord Jesus. -[5052.06 --> 5058.52] Church family, shared brothers and sisters. -[5058.94 --> 5066.12] The Lord has prepared his table for all who trust in him, for all who trust in him alone for their salvation. -[5066.12 --> 5072.40] And so, come to this table, you who have much faith and you who would like to have more. -[5072.96 --> 5081.04] Come to this table, you who have been to the sacrament often and you who have not been in a long time but are hearing the invitation of Jesus. -[5081.40 --> 5086.08] Come, you who have tried to follow Jesus and you who have failed. -[5086.26 --> 5090.90] Come to this table because Jesus Christ is raised. -[5090.90 --> 5097.40] Come to this table if you are here in person or if you are online and at home. -[5097.68 --> 5102.10] Because it is Christ who invites us to meet him here. -[5102.86 --> 5106.24] The gifts of God for the people of God. -[5107.86 --> 5114.56] As we gather at this table, we do so in a very particular way, meaningful way to us here. -[5114.70 --> 5118.66] We gather in groups that come up to the front in a circle around the table. -[5118.66 --> 5125.00] And so, we have elders who will act as ushers indicating when you come up to the front. -[5125.12 --> 5128.20] And then we have elders who will help serve here at the table. -[5128.38 --> 5133.12] And so, when you are indicated in your row, please come up to the front and gather around. -[5133.92 --> 5141.58] As you pass the elements one to the other, we invite you to say, when passing the bread, the body of Christ given for you. -[5141.84 --> 5146.12] And then when passing the juice, to say, the blood of Christ shed for you. -[5146.12 --> 5153.64] If you are unable to come up to the front but would like to receive supper, please indicate that to the elder who is out there. -[5153.74 --> 5158.20] And they will meet you at your spot and they will serve you there. -[5158.94 --> 5162.20] Additionally, there are people around and available for prayer. -[5162.48 --> 5170.56] If you would like to receive prayer, to be prayed over or prayed with, either before coming up or if you're not coming up this morning, -[5170.56 --> 5176.04] there are people who will be available in the foyer at the back to engage you there. -[5176.88 --> 5183.58] We're going to invite those who are volunteering in the service to come forward, the worship team and the elders who are serving. -[5183.72 --> 5188.88] We will serve that table first and then they will help facilitate our serving in a moment. -[5189.04 --> 5191.50] And there will be songs to sing throughout as we go. -[5191.50 --> 5194.14] So come on down and up to the front. -[5198.86 --> 5200.30] Come right in here. -[5202.72 --> 5203.34] He'll come. -[5203.66 --> 5204.54] Save a spot for him. -[5208.18 --> 5209.24] He's not going to do it. -[5216.24 --> 5217.60] Body of Christ given for you. -[5217.60 --> 5217.62] Thank you. -[5217.62 --> 5217.64] Thank you. -[5217.64 --> 5217.68] Thank you. -[5221.50 --> 5223.06] Body, right. -[5225.56 --> 5230.52] Right here. -[5243.66 --> 5248.74] Thank you. -[5251.50 --> 5271.40] Eat and remember. -[5281.50 --> 5287.98] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[5292.60 --> 5293.92] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[5311.50 --> 5341.48] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[5341.50 --> 5343.52] Drink and believe. -[5356.62 --> 5359.82] As this group is making their way back to their seats, -[5360.76 --> 5364.30] just a reminder that this is a feast unto the Lord, -[5364.42 --> 5366.40] and so when you're up front, you don't have to whisper to each other. -[5366.40 --> 5371.92] You could celebrate that this is the blood of Christ shed for you. -[5371.92 --> 5372.92] Amen. -[5372.92 --> 5373.92] Amen. -[5402.92 --> 5422.38] All who are thirsty, all who are weak, come to the fountain, take your heart in the stream of life, and lay out his sorrow. -[5422.38 --> 5444.26] He washed the earth away in the way that we perceive, as he was down to thee, sing, God, Lord Jesus, come. -[5444.26 --> 5452.26] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[5454.26 --> 5461.26] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[5463.26 --> 5468.26] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[5468.26 --> 5470.26] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[5470.26 --> 5489.26] All who are thirsty, all who are weak, come to the fountain, dip your heart in the stream of life, and lay out his sorrow. -[5489.26 --> 5496.26] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[5496.26 --> 5499.26] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[5499.26 --> 5504.42] As he cries out to me -[5504.42 --> 5510.70] Sing Holy Spirit, Lord -[5510.70 --> 5520.56] Holy Spirit, Lord -[5520.56 --> 5527.70] Come, Lord Jesus, Lord -[5527.70 --> 5535.84] Come, Lord Jesus, Lord -[5535.84 --> 5539.18] All who are thirsty -[5557.70 --> 5566.84] Let us pray, pray together -[5566.84 --> 5570.98] On our knees -[5570.98 --> 5574.98] Let us pray, pray together -[5574.98 --> 5578.98] On our knees -[5579.98 --> 5583.98] When I fall on my knees -[5584.60 --> 5586.98] With my face to the Lord -[5586.98 --> 5589.12] And I fall on my knees -[5589.12 --> 5595.12] O Lord, have mercy on me -[5595.12 --> 5601.80] Let us drink wine together -[5601.80 --> 5604.12] On our knees -[5604.12 --> 5610.24] Let us drink wine together -[5610.24 --> 5614.38] On our knees -[5614.38 --> 5618.38] When I fall on thy feet -[5618.38 --> 5621.38] With my face to the Lord -[5621.38 --> 5630.38] O Lord, have mercy on me -[5630.38 --> 5635.38] Let us praise God together -[5635.38 --> 5640.52] On our knees -[5640.52 --> 5643.52] Let us praise God together -[5643.52 --> 5647.52] On our knees -[5647.52 --> 5652.52] When I fall on my knees -[5652.52 --> 5655.38] With my face to the Lord -[5655.38 --> 5657.52] Let us pray, Lord -[5657.52 --> 5658.52] Let us pray, Lord -[5658.52 --> 5663.52] O Lord, have mercy on me -[5663.52 --> 5672.74] We Him -[5672.74 --> 5700.02] A land who fears our sins away -[5700.02 --> 5703.74] Slain for us -[5703.74 --> 5709.26] And we remember the promise made -[5709.26 --> 5712.32] That all who come in faith -[5712.32 --> 5718.06] Find forgiveness at the cost -[5718.06 --> 5724.02] Though we share in His bread of life -[5724.02 --> 5729.02] And we dream of His sacrifice -[5729.02 --> 5732.42] As the sun -[5732.42 --> 5736.24] Of our hearts of peace -[5736.24 --> 5740.02] Around the table of peace -[5740.02 --> 5753.34] The body of our Savior -[5753.34 --> 5755.50] Jesus Christ -[5755.50 --> 5758.90] Born for you -[5758.90 --> 5764.68] He can remember the wounds that heal the death -[5764.68 --> 5766.90] That praise us not -[5766.90 --> 5768.66] Faith of Christ -[5768.66 --> 5771.90] To make us run -[5771.90 --> 5778.02] Though we share in His bread of life -[5778.02 --> 5783.12] And we dream of His sacrifice -[5783.12 --> 5787.68] At the time of our own -[5787.68 --> 5789.08] The blood of God -[5789.08 --> 5793.08] Around the table of peace -[5793.08 --> 5808.66] The blood that cleanses every saint I'll see -[5808.66 --> 5810.48] Shed for you -[5810.48 --> 5813.88] Drink and remember -[5813.88 --> 5814.88] Drink and remember -[5814.88 --> 5820.14] He drink that stuff that all may enter in -[5820.14 --> 5825.76] To receive the life of God -[5825.76 --> 5831.50] So we share in His bread of life -[5831.50 --> 5836.90] And we dream of His sacrifice -[5836.90 --> 5843.40] And He's sign of our arms of grace -[5843.40 --> 5846.96] Around the table of peace -[5846.96 --> 5860.86] And so with thankfulness and faith -[5860.86 --> 5863.36] We are to respond -[5863.36 --> 5867.76] And to remember -[5867.76 --> 5868.76] And to remember -[5868.76 --> 5873.24] Our hope we fall in the steps of Christ -[5873.24 --> 5878.26] As His body here on earth -[5878.26 --> 5880.76] As we share -[5880.76 --> 5883.22] His days in suffering -[5883.22 --> 5885.72] We proclaim -[5885.72 --> 5889.44] Christ will come again -[5889.44 --> 5892.08] And we'll join -[5892.08 --> 5895.22] With the feast of bread -[5895.22 --> 5899.22] Around the table of peace -[5899.22 --> 5929.20] And we'll join -[5929.22 --> 5943.18] How beautiful -[5943.18 --> 5948.62] The heavens are answered -[5948.62 --> 5952.12] The wide air and the heavens -[5952.12 --> 5956.18] And the sun's on the earth -[5956.18 --> 5958.54] How beautiful -[5958.54 --> 5959.10] How beautiful -[5959.10 --> 5964.00] The feet that are caught -[5964.00 --> 5967.60] The long-dusty road -[5967.60 --> 5971.50] And the hill to the cross -[5971.50 --> 5974.34] How beautiful -[5974.34 --> 5981.14] How beautiful -[5981.14 --> 5981.62] How beautiful -[5981.62 --> 5985.62] How beautiful -[5985.62 --> 5987.00] How beautiful -[5987.00 --> 5987.18] How beautiful -[5987.18 --> 5988.12] How beautiful -[5988.12 --> 5988.42] How beautiful -[5988.42 --> 5990.68] Is the body of Christ -[5990.68 --> 6002.36] How beautiful -[6002.36 --> 6004.00] How beautiful -[6004.00 --> 6004.52] How beautiful -[6004.52 --> 6007.10] the heart that fell -[6007.10 --> 6016.24] That took all my sin and bore it instead -[6016.24 --> 6023.10] How beautiful the tender eyes -[6023.74 --> 6030.10] That chose to bargain and never decide -[6030.10 --> 6033.10] How beautiful -[6037.10 --> 6047.10] How beautiful -[6047.10 --> 6054.10] How beautiful is the body of Christ -[6054.10 --> 6061.10] And as he laid down his life -[6061.10 --> 6067.10] We offer this sacrifice -[6067.10 --> 6071.10] That we will live -[6071.10 --> 6075.10] Just as he died -[6075.10 --> 6081.10] Willing to pay the price -[6081.10 --> 6091.10] Willing to pay the price -[6091.10 --> 6099.10] How beautiful the radiant bride -[6099.10 --> 6101.10] Who waits for her groom -[6101.10 --> 6105.10] With its light in her eyes -[6105.10 --> 6109.10] How beautiful -[6109.10 --> 6115.10] When humble hearts in the fruit of your life -[6115.10 --> 6119.10] So that others may live -[6119.10 --> 6123.10] How beautiful -[6123.10 --> 6125.10] How beautiful -[6125.10 --> 6129.10] How beautiful -[6129.10 --> 6131.10] How beautiful -[6131.10 --> 6141.10] Is the body of Christ -[6141.10 --> 6143.10] How beautiful -[6143.10 --> 6147.10] How beautiful -[6147.10 --> 6149.10] How beautiful -[6149.10 --> 6151.10] How beautiful -[6151.10 --> 6153.10] The feet that bring -[6153.10 --> 6155.10] The sound of good news -[6155.10 --> 6157.10] And the love of the King -[6157.10 --> 6159.10] How beautiful -[6159.10 --> 6161.10] The Lord -[6161.10 --> 6165.10] How beautiful -[6165.10 --> 6167.10] How beautiful -[6167.10 --> 6169.10] The hands that serve -[6169.10 --> 6171.10] The white and the bread -[6171.10 --> 6173.10] And the sons of the earth -[6173.10 --> 6198.60] How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful is the party of Christ. -[6203.10 --> 6223.10] How beautiful, how beautiful is the party of Christ. -[6223.10 --> 6248.10] He became sin, who knew not sin, that we might become. -[6248.10 --> 6256.10] His righteousness, he humbled himself and carried across. -[6256.10 --> 6265.10] Love so amazing, love so amazing. -[6265.10 --> 6275.10] Jesus Messiah, name above all names. -[6275.10 --> 6282.10] Blessed Redeemer, Emmanuel. -[6282.10 --> 6293.10] The mercy for sinners, the ransom from heaven. -[6293.10 --> 6303.10] Jesus Messiah, Lord of all. -[6303.10 --> 6310.10] His body of bread, his blood of wine. -[6310.10 --> 6314.10] Broken and poured out, all for love. -[6314.10 --> 6321.10] The cold and tremble, and the veil of stone. -[6321.10 --> 6329.10] Love so amazing, love so amazing. -[6329.10 --> 6339.10] Jesus Messiah, name above all names. -[6339.10 --> 6344.10] Blessed Redeemer, Emmanuel. -[6344.10 --> 6345.10] Emmanuel. -[6345.10 --> 6357.10] The mercy for sinners, the ransom from heaven. -[6357.10 --> 6364.10] Jesus Messiah, name above all names. -[6364.10 --> 6367.10] Jesus Messiah, Lord of all. -[6367.10 --> 6372.10] His name, Lord of all names. -[6372.10 --> 6377.10] Jesus Messiah, you are the one of our hearts. -[6377.10 --> 6380.10] Jesus Messiah, you are the one of our hearts. -[6380.10 --> 6386.10] His name, Jesus Messiah, you are the one of our hearts. -[6386.10 --> 6391.10] Jesus Messiah -[6391.10 --> 6397.10] Name above all names -[6397.72 --> 6401.10] Blessed Redeemer -[6401.78 --> 6403.78] Amen -[6403.78 --> 6410.10] The ransom for sinners -[6410.10 --> 6414.10] The ransom from heaven -[6414.10 --> 6418.54] Jesus Messiah -[6418.54 --> 6423.98] Lord of all -[6423.98 --> 6427.96] Jesus Messiah -[6427.96 --> 6434.10] Lord of all -[6440.10 --> 6443.20] As you go, we go together -[6443.20 --> 6447.10] Sent by God through the gospel -[6447.10 --> 6449.26] In the power of the Holy Spirit -[6449.26 --> 6453.90] Sent to witness to the Lord -[6453.90 --> 6457.86] Go in the power of His name and with His blessing -[6457.86 --> 6461.64] God go before you to lead you -[6461.64 --> 6464.16] God go behind you to protect you -[6464.16 --> 6466.66] God go beneath you to support you -[6466.66 --> 6469.98] And God go beside you to befriend you -[6469.98 --> 6472.54] Do not be afraid -[6472.54 --> 6474.92] Let the blessing of God come upon you today -[6474.92 --> 6476.52] Do not be afraid -[6476.52 --> 6481.94] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord -[6481.94 --> 6483.72] Amen -[6483.72 --> 6489.10] I invite you to join hands together -[6489.10 --> 6491.24] Across the aisles if you will -[6491.24 --> 6492.34] If you're comfortable -[6492.34 --> 6494.20] For this last one -[6494.20 --> 6512.10] May the peace of God our Heavenly Father -[6512.10 --> 6516.90] And the grace of Christ our risen Son -[6516.90 --> 6523.28] And the fellowship of God our Heavenly Father -[6523.28 --> 6527.90] Keep our hearts and minds within His love -[6527.90 --> 6534.96] And to Him He prays for His glorious strength -[6534.96 --> 6540.42] From the depths of earth to the heights of earth -[6540.42 --> 6545.72] We declare the name of the land once slain -[6545.72 --> 6551.18] Christ eternal, the King of kings -[6551.18 --> 6558.66] Faith is peace that passes understanding -[6558.66 --> 6563.90] And His grace which makes us what we are -[6563.90 --> 6569.28] And His fellowship of His communion -[6569.28 --> 6574.66] Make us one in spirit and in heart -[6574.66 --> 6580.34] And to Him He prays for His glorious strength -[6580.34 --> 6585.52] From the depths of earth to the heights of earth -[6585.52 --> 6590.68] We declare the name of the land once slain -[6590.68 --> 6596.10] Christ eternal, the King of kings -[6596.10 --> 6601.76] The King of kings -[6601.76 --> 6612.14] our show here -[6612.14 --> 6614.14] And us will prepare a different spirit -[6614.14 --> 6618.46] And us will prepare a different spirit -[6618.46 --> 6620.86] Make us one in spirit -[6620.86 --> 6650.84] Thank you. -[6650.86 --> 6680.84] Thank you. -[6680.86 --> 6710.84] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 18, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 18, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d1a933099e9de4a382b2755e5d7a6b2f99b7bfaa..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 18, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,109 +0,0 @@ -• Loss and grief -• Spiritual connection and dependence on a higher power -• Hope in times of darkness and pain -• Yearning for comfort and protection -• Gratitude for love and presence in life -• Introduction to a video from a youth conference -• The speaker is singing a song about God being above the world and salvation being here -• A story is told about an event called Reactivate that took place at Willoughby CRC with over 160 teens in attendance -• The theme of the event was "enough" and how Jesus is enough for everyone -• The church where the event took place stepped up to provide volunteers and help make it happen -• A thank you is given to the volunteers who helped with food, parking, setup, etc. -• Other announcements are made about a children's worship time coordinator position still available -• Introduction to the ministry fair and volunteering opportunities -• Distribution of visitor cards for new attendees -• Announcement about upcoming Safe Church training on September 17th and October 3rd -• Invitation from Marguerite, with a brief greeting -• Prayer and worship service -• Jesus Christ as savior and Lord -• The cross and resurrection as the center of history -• The Holy Trinity (God, Jesus Christ, Holy Spirit) -• Salvation through faith in Jesus Christ -• The power and authority of God over evil -• Worship and praise to God Almighty -• Personal surrender and devotion to God -• The importance of kindness, gentleness, and sacrifice -• Renewing of hearts through a deepening understanding and application of God's Word -• Authenticity and sincerity in prayer, asking for what is truly desired -• Human tendency to hide from the truth about one's sin and lack of desire for change -• God's love and redemption through Jesus Christ -• Praise and worship of God's love and character -• Introduction of a special offering for Cascade Christian Counseling -• Gratitude and thanks given by the speaker -• Discussion about school and summer activities among children -• Explanation of the blessing ritual and need for adult assistance -• Council meeting notes discussed, including: - + Welcome of new council members - + Training on roles and responsibilities as elders, deacons, and council members - + Review of town hall meeting on young adult position - + Vote on young adult ministry position scheduled for October 2nd -• Announcement of package with information on proposed young adult position -• Thanking of Josh for his work in the young adult position -• Discussion of staff review and upcoming budget requests -• The church celebrated the three-year anniversary of the Murad family's arrival -• Hadil Murad graduated from high school and will attend Langara College -• The Agile family marked five years in the community with their citizenship test completion -• The Nehmer family is being sponsored by the church for resettlement -• Community concerns were shared, including the drug crisis, gang violence, mental health, and faith waning -• The church reflected on the life and legacy of Queen Elizabeth II -• Prayers were offered for guidance, leadership, and hope in difficult times -• Current events, such as Ukraine's conflict and environmental disasters, were mentioned -• The congregation is in a new ministry year series called "This Is Our Church" and are exploring what they are as a church. -• They discussed how they are a church that loves to sing and have opportunities for worship. -• They also mentioned their involvement with safe church ministries and sponsoring refugees. -• The pastor referenced the church's mission statement: "gather, grow, and go" and began discussing the second part of this, which is "grow". -• He used examples from his personal life to illustrate how growth can be visible or invisible and intentional. -• The sermon will focus on Ephesians 4:11-16. -• The purpose of the church is to equip its people for works of service, building up the body of Christ until unity in faith and knowledge is reached -• Christ is the foundation and ultimate goal of the church's growth and maturity -• Churches should not be built around personalities or traditions, but on a living faith in Jesus -• Tradition can be helpful when it serves as a foundation for growth into the future, rather than being focused solely on past practices -• The church should reflect the multi-ethnic reality of its community, gathering people from diverse backgrounds to become one body in Christ -• Personalities and ethnic identities are not the defining characteristics of a healthy church. -• The church needs to prioritize its mission and not just focus on social programs and service projects -• The primary task of the church is to open and close the kingdom of heaven through preaching and church discipline -• The church has specific offices such as apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers that are given by Christ for the equipping of his people -• Jesus is the one who gives growth and equips his people through these offices and spiritual gifts -• Growing in faith and becoming part of Christ's body is unavoidable and happens when drawing near to Jesus -• Christians grow and are transformed by the renewal of their minds and the power of the Holy Spirit into the image of Jesus Christ. -• The work that God is doing in and through believers is to equip them for works of service, which means serving others as a way of growing in faith. -• The word "service" (diakonia) refers to servanthood or being a servant, specifically a table servant who provides food for others. -• Growth and serving go hand in hand, with practice of service leading to growth in faith. -• Ways to serve include volunteering, joining small groups, helping in the nursery, and participating in programs like GEMS. -• The ultimate goal is not just individual growth but also building up the body of Christ through serving others. -• The importance of spiritual growth and maturity in becoming like Christ -• Growth means Jesus is real to the individual and active in their life -• Connection to Christ is necessary for producing fruit and spiritual growth -• Deconstruction, instruction, and reconstruction are steps towards spiritual growth -• Spiritual growth involves becoming mature and fully-formed as a Christian -• The importance of truth and love in speaking and living out faith. -• Traditional orthodox Christian faith and its influence on people who grew up in it -• Exvangelical movement: people leaving the faith they were raised in and becoming evangelists for secularism or de-churching -• Deconstruction: a modern movement of questioning and challenging traditional beliefs, especially among young people -• Difference between deconstructionism (philosophy) and evangelical version of deconstruction -• Importance of critical thinking and taking responsibility for one's own beliefs, particularly in the context of social media influence -• Deconstructing old religious norms and understanding they are products of social constructs -• Importance of face-to-face discussion and community engagement in deconstruction -• Relaunching a book study group called Roots and Routes to facilitate discussion on various topics -• Reading "The Secular Creed" and its relevance to the conversation on deconstruction and social constructs -• Applying critical thinking and questioning to one's own beliefs and the creeds of their culture -• The importance of growth through confrontation with difficult conversations and questioning -• Replacing old beliefs requires holding onto a new or correct belief -• Understanding "speaking the truth in love" as receiving an instruction that is both true and compelling -• The need to sit under preached word, allow for transformation by the Holy Spirit, and study scripture -• Recognizing that media and social platforms are not neutral and shape one's vision of reality -• Discerning whether one receives instruction from worldly "sages" or from Jesus, the "true rabbi" -• Considering what shapes one into a kingdom of heaven or a self-made kingdom -• Discipleship as growth in every respect to become the mature body of Christ -• Deconstruction, instruction, and reconstruction as a rhythm of discipleship -• Transformation and growth over time through community support -• Asking hard questions and wrestling with faith together -• Prayer for growth in grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ -• Prayer for heart change, renewal, and love to surround the speaker -• Seeking knowledge of God's love and seeing Him face-to-face -• Renewing the mind to live according to God's will -• Blessing of God being invoked -• Reassurance against fear and encouragement to serve the Lord -• Prayer for spiritual fire and worship -• Praise and adoration of Jehovah God and Jesus Christ as King and Comforter -• Repetition of thanksgiving and praise throughout the transcript \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 18, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 18, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0a03af003736936e83ae9297559ffb410d9fa87e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 18, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1514 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.00] Oh -[6.16 --> 8.16] Chase down my -[17.68 --> 19.68] You create -[21.12 --> 25.24] Out of the world abandoned in darkness to -[30.00 --> 34.00] And as you speak -[36.00 --> 40.00] A hundred billion things disappear -[43.00 --> 48.00] Well you lost your life so I can find it here -[50.00 --> 55.00] If you left the grave behind you so alive -[55.00 --> 62.00] I can see your heart in everything you've done -[62.00 --> 68.00] Every part designed in the work of God -[69.00 --> 70.00] Call my heart -[71.00 --> 77.00] If you're glad that you'll surrender so will I -[77.00 --> 84.00] I can see your heart and fill you different away -[84.00 --> 86.00] Every precious one -[86.00 --> 89.00] A child you died to save -[90.00 --> 94.00] If you gave your life to love them so loud -[94.00 --> 100.00] If you gave your life to love them so loud -[101.00 --> 108.00] Like you would again a hundred billion times -[108.00 --> 114.00] But what measure could amount to your desire -[115.00 --> 120.00] You're the one who never leaves the one behind -[121.00 --> 125.00] You're the one who never leaves the one behind -[126.00 --> 127.00] Now outside -[127.00 --> 128.00] Now we go to town -[128.00 --> 129.00] You're the one who appears to be -[129.00 --> 131.20] Your -[132.00 --> 133.00] That's why -[134.00 --> 137.00] It's about -[138.00 --> 139.00] Now -[139.00 --> 140.00] See -[140.00 --> 144.36] Does -[146.00 --> 148.00] Any -[148.00 --> 149.00] The -[149.00 --> 154.04] you up some days it'll call you bluff man most of my days i ain't got enough -[157.72 --> 158.76] and all i know -[161.80 --> 164.76] is you're my only home -[166.84 --> 174.04] when i'm up when i'm down when the wolves come around when my feet hit the ground i just need -[174.04 --> 187.08] i just need you -[192.52 --> 199.08] lord i need you -[199.08 --> 203.08] yeah i just need you -[203.08 --> 209.24] yeah though i walk through the valley of the shadow of death i will fear no evil for thou art with me -[209.88 --> 216.28] thy rod and thy staff they comfort me when i'm beat down broken hold my heart when it's split wide -[216.28 --> 220.28] open turn these eyes to my soul protector and break the will of this boy -[220.28 --> 227.32] lord -[228.12 --> 240.12] bye -[240.12 --> 244.48] On the darkest day, when I'm losing pain -[244.48 --> 246.70] No, it ain't gon' change -[246.70 --> 249.42] I just need, I just need you -[249.42 --> 258.96] Lord, I need you -[258.96 --> 267.90] Yeah, I just need you -[267.90 --> 270.16] When you pull me closer -[270.16 --> 272.06] I come to life -[272.06 --> 274.80] When you pull me closer -[274.80 --> 276.66] I come to life -[276.66 --> 279.46] When you pull me closer -[279.46 --> 281.30] I come to life -[281.30 --> 284.06] When you pull me closer -[284.06 --> 285.68] I come to life -[287.14 --> 288.30] When I'm up, when I'm down -[288.30 --> 292.94] When my thing hit the ground -[292.94 --> 297.54] On the darkest day -[297.54 --> 304.54] Oh Lord, I need you -[305.16 --> 306.80] When I'm up, when I'm down -[306.80 --> 308.88] When the woods come around -[308.88 --> 313.54] When I'm busy, I need, I need, I need you -[314.28 --> 315.96] I'm an artist, girl -[315.96 --> 318.16] When I'm using, girl -[318.16 --> 320.42] No, it ain't gonna change -[320.42 --> 322.72] Ain't no way this thing gonna change -[322.72 --> 324.96] It's you, I need you -[324.96 --> 326.96] It's you, I'm good -[326.96 --> 329.22] On my darkest days -[329.22 --> 331.06] When I'm losing, girl -[331.06 --> 334.78] I need you, I need you -[334.78 --> 335.96] I'm an artist, girl -[335.96 --> 338.32] Every single day -[338.32 --> 340.24] Every breath I take -[340.24 --> 341.46] I need you -[341.46 --> 346.46] I need you -[346.46 --> 356.94] Good morning, everyone -[356.94 --> 360.40] I am going to introduce to you right now -[360.40 --> 362.10] As you're filtering into the church -[362.10 --> 363.06] And making your way -[363.06 --> 364.24] And looking at the countdown -[364.24 --> 366.32] And thinking, I still have three minutes -[366.32 --> 367.20] What's going on? -[367.48 --> 368.56] We're gonna play a video -[368.56 --> 369.96] From this past weekend -[369.96 --> 371.70] There was a youth conference -[371.70 --> 372.20] Called Reactivate -[372.78 --> 374.70] That myself and three other youth pastors -[374.70 --> 376.40] Put on with a number of volunteers -[376.40 --> 379.06] And a number of churches across BC -[379.06 --> 381.10] And so I wanted to introduce that video -[381.10 --> 382.24] We're gonna watch it right now -[382.24 --> 383.52] And then we will start -[383.52 --> 385.08] Church the normal way -[385.08 --> 385.70] Thank you -[385.70 --> 385.78] Thank you -[385.78 --> 390.68] Thanks, mention -[391.68 --> 391.94] Thank you -[391.94 --> 392.78] Hey, you about you -[392.84 --> 406.44] Hello позвол -[406.44 --> 407.50] And so you'll probably put that away -[407.50 --> 408.42] You're doing -[408.52 --> 409.26] Chrome -[409.26 --> 410.02] And so my hoje -[410.02 --> 411.00] We're gonna be -[411.14 --> 411.18] - -[411.48 --> 412.08] Thanks, Moi -[412.08 --> 426.58] God above the world, no sin -[426.58 --> 429.08] God above the world -[442.08 --> 456.08] God above the world, no sin -[456.08 --> 460.08] God above the world, no sin -[460.08 --> 465.08] I don't care what the world does at me -[465.08 --> 469.08] I'm gonna be your right -[469.08 --> 482.08] I feel the sound of generations -[482.08 --> 486.08] Making right our feelings hard -[486.08 --> 491.08] Falling on with the world we know you're -[491.08 --> 494.08] What could it be your right? -[494.08 --> 497.08] Cause I know you're mine -[497.08 --> 499.08] God save your day -[499.08 --> 502.08] And I know you're worth it -[502.08 --> 505.08] And I know you're mine -[505.08 --> 507.08] God in the way -[507.08 --> 510.08] You know that you're mine -[510.08 --> 513.08] And salvation is here -[513.08 --> 525.08] God above the world in motion -[525.08 --> 527.08] God above the world in motion -[527.08 --> 529.08] God above the hopes and fears -[529.08 --> 533.08] And I don't care what the world does at me -[533.08 --> 535.08] And I know you're mine -[535.08 --> 537.08] I'm gonna be your right -[537.08 --> 541.08] Cause I know my God's every day -[541.08 --> 543.08] And I know you're worth it -[543.08 --> 545.08] And I know you're worth it -[545.08 --> 550.08] And I know my God's been waiting for me -[550.08 --> 580.06] I can't wait for you. -[580.08 --> 610.06] I can't wait for you. -[610.08 --> 612.08] Salvation is here. -[612.08 --> 614.08] Salvation is here. -[614.08 --> 617.08] Salvation is here. -[617.08 --> 622.96] You are alive and you live to me. -[623.46 --> 626.32] Salvation is here. -[627.42 --> 631.98] Salvation is here and you live to me. -[632.36 --> 635.74] Salvation is here. -[635.74 --> 640.76] Cause you are alive and you live in me -[640.76 --> 647.74] Cause I know I'm not saying that I know it -[647.74 --> 654.74] You're alive and I know I'm not saying that I know it -[654.74 --> 658.88] You're gonna be alright -[658.88 --> 664.74] Cause I know I'm not saying that I know it -[664.74 --> 666.74] You're gonna be alright -[666.74 --> 672.74] Cause I know I'm not saying that I know it -[672.74 --> 674.74] You're gonna be alright -[674.74 --> 678.74] Salvation is here -[678.74 --> 683.74] Salvation is here and you live in me -[683.74 --> 686.74] Salvation is here -[686.74 --> 691.74] Cause you are alive and you live in me -[691.74 --> 695.74] Salvation is here -[695.74 --> 698.74] Sub ceiling I can see that I know it -[698.74 --> 702.74] Malty -[702.74 --> 703.74] Seventh -[703.74 --> 706.74] Rooster -[706.74 --> 707.74] Tenth -[707.74 --> 709.74] Paul -[709.74 --> 710.74] Mam -[710.74 --> 716.34] So that is what the last weekend was like at Reactivate, -[716.34 --> 718.18] which was hosted at Willoughby CRC. -[718.34 --> 721.86] We had about 160 teens from across BC come out. -[722.74 --> 726.70] The theme was enough, and we talked about how Jesus was enough for us all, -[726.76 --> 728.76] that we have enough, that they are enough, -[729.16 --> 733.68] and we used the passage of Jesus feeding the 5,000 as sort of the theme for that. -[733.74 --> 737.38] And then on the one night, we were able to give all of the youth and leaders there -[737.38 --> 740.28] a piece of bread and fish, which was pretty fun as well. -[740.28 --> 742.34] And then you saw all the other fun stuff that we were up to. -[742.48 --> 746.72] So what I do want to do, though, is highlight that this church stepped up -[746.72 --> 748.82] in a huge way for that weekend to happen. -[749.06 --> 753.86] So the majority of the volunteers that came out to make that event run -[753.86 --> 755.74] and function as it was from this church. -[756.08 --> 759.40] So I just wanted to say a huge thank you to all of you who came out -[759.40 --> 763.42] and helped prep food, helped with the parking lot, helped set up stuff, -[763.52 --> 768.26] helped turn rooms into workshop areas or eating areas. -[768.26 --> 771.12] There was just a great number of you to come up. -[771.16 --> 774.00] So I do want to thank you all so much for making that weekend happen. -[774.10 --> 776.62] It was a huge blessing for all of the youth who came out. -[776.72 --> 778.94] So you guys can clap for yourself if you want, -[779.02 --> 780.38] because it was a pretty incredible weekend. -[780.52 --> 781.58] So thank you so much for that. -[781.58 --> 789.58] A couple of other announcements this morning before I have you stand for God's greeting. -[789.80 --> 794.20] The first is that we are still looking for one more children's worship time coordinator. -[794.48 --> 801.42] So Amy Hubert, she's out in there already, and then Cameron Vischer is doing it as well. -[801.48 --> 803.32] But we're looking for one more to help with that. -[803.38 --> 807.42] A lot of it will be on the admin side of things, helping with schedules, sending emails. -[807.42 --> 811.90] It will happen behind the scenes, but we would love to round out that team and make it a team of three. -[812.02 --> 816.30] So if that's something that you're interested in, children's worship time we're hoping gets going next week. -[816.98 --> 819.70] But we would love one more person to help join that team. -[819.78 --> 822.38] So if that's something you think you can help with, you can be any age. -[822.96 --> 824.54] We are just looking for one more person. -[824.68 --> 827.20] So please chat with me or with Amy or with Cameron. -[827.68 --> 829.72] You can talk to me after the service or send me an email. -[829.82 --> 830.54] That would be wonderful. -[830.54 --> 835.78] You may have noticed when you came into the church, all those tables out there. -[835.84 --> 837.88] So we're having our little ministry fair this morning. -[838.42 --> 843.64] Please, after the service, grab some coffee and take a look at all the different ministries going on there. -[843.66 --> 848.18] There's different ministries that are also looking for volunteers to help out with throughout the year. -[848.54 --> 852.08] Or maybe there's a ministry you want to get involved in and plugged in with and attend to. -[852.16 --> 853.12] So please check that out. -[853.44 --> 856.10] See what we've got going on there as well. -[856.10 --> 859.16] And before I invite Marguerite, shown up. -[860.70 --> 861.46] Marguerite's in the back there. -[861.48 --> 863.22] Marguerite's going to come make an announcement in just a moment. -[864.26 --> 865.28] We have these little cards. -[865.36 --> 871.28] So if you are new with us this morning or you're checking us out either online or here in the sanctuary here for the first time, -[871.60 --> 872.84] we have these cards available. -[872.92 --> 874.32] We would love to connect with you. -[874.74 --> 876.14] We would love for you to fill this out. -[876.46 --> 878.08] Find someone wearing a name tag. -[878.50 --> 880.96] Find an elder or an usher or one of us pastors. -[881.50 --> 882.90] And we will get you one of these. -[882.90 --> 888.86] We'd love to connect with you and get to know you and your story a little bit more and tell you a little bit more about this place. -[888.92 --> 890.72] So please do fill that out for us. -[891.12 --> 891.96] That would be wonderful. -[892.16 --> 892.38] All right. -[892.40 --> 893.44] I'm going to invite Marguerite out. -[893.72 --> 895.58] And she's got an announcement to make as well. -[902.78 --> 903.40] Good morning. -[904.46 --> 908.38] This is just an announcement about the upcoming training. -[908.38 --> 915.24] And so on behalf of the Safe Church team, I want to remind you that that is taking place tomorrow night at 7 o'clock. -[916.52 --> 925.32] If you volunteer in any capacity here in the church working with youth, with children or anybody like considered vulnerable, -[926.02 --> 927.56] then this workshop is for you. -[927.56 --> 930.22] We have over 100 people volunteering here. -[930.56 --> 933.16] So I am expecting a full house tomorrow. -[933.78 --> 936.82] The same training will take place on October the 3rd. -[937.00 --> 940.10] So if you can't make it tomorrow night, then please come out on the 3rd. -[941.42 --> 944.30] We would love it if you register with Sylvia. -[944.42 --> 945.34] She's here this morning. -[945.42 --> 947.90] So you could even talk to her right after the service. -[947.90 --> 952.26] It's supposed to be a really dynamic workshop. -[952.76 --> 956.80] And you can come with your questions and with your ears. -[957.06 --> 957.32] Listen. -[957.50 --> 959.08] And we all have stuff to learn. -[959.60 --> 960.88] So please, please come out. -[960.96 --> 962.42] It's mandatory to take this training. -[962.54 --> 964.78] If you volunteer here, you have to come out. -[964.84 --> 968.40] So don't think you can get away with it and just ask somebody else what it was all about. -[968.76 --> 969.72] You have to come. -[970.10 --> 971.08] So please come tomorrow. -[971.18 --> 972.66] I'm looking forward to seeing you here. -[975.94 --> 976.68] Thanks, Marguerite. -[976.68 --> 981.54] I would love to invite you all to stand now and receive God's greeting for us this morning. -[986.94 --> 989.92] God's greeting this morning comes from Revelation 1. -[990.42 --> 995.04] Grace and peace to you from him who is and who was and who is to come. -[995.54 --> 997.92] And from the seven spirits before his throne. -[998.20 --> 1004.66] And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. -[1005.66 --> 1005.96] Amen. -[1005.96 --> 1010.38] And once again, as God has greeted us this morning, please take this time to greet those around you. -[1010.44 --> 1014.96] Be sensitive to hugs and kisses and handshakes perhaps, but say hello to those around you. -[1014.96 --> 1044.94] Thank you. -[1044.96 --> 1074.94] Thank you. -[1074.96 --> 1076.96] Thank you. -[1104.96 --> 1106.96] Thank you. -[1134.96 --> 1136.96] Thank you. -[1164.96 --> 1166.96] Thank you. -[1194.96 --> 1196.96] Thank you. -[1224.96 --> 1226.96] Thank you. -[1226.96 --> 1228.96] Thank you. -[1228.96 --> 1230.96] Thank you. -[1230.96 --> 1232.96] Thank you. -[1232.96 --> 1234.96] Thank you. -[1234.96 --> 1236.96] Thank you. -[1236.96 --> 1238.96] Thank you. -[1238.96 --> 1240.96] Thank you. -[1240.96 --> 1242.96] Thank you. -[1242.96 --> 1244.96] Thank you. -[1245.10 --> 1246.96] Okay. -[1246.96 --> 1247.96] Come. -[1247.96 --> 1252.96] Now is a time to worship. -[1252.96 --> 1254.96] Come. -[1254.96 --> 1262.30] Now is a time to give your hearts. -[1262.30 --> 1265.96] Come. -[1265.96 --> 1274.82] We come before God in praise and confession of our faith. -[1275.82 --> 1282.44] For I believe in God the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. -[1295.96 --> 1317.92] I want to be close, close to your side. -[1317.92 --> 1325.12] So heaven is real and death is a lie. -[1325.12 --> 1336.02] I want to hear voices of angels above singing as one. -[1336.58 --> 1346.12] Hallelujah, holy, holy, God Almighty. -[1346.12 --> 1350.42] The great I am. -[1350.76 --> 1353.48] Who is worthy? -[1354.60 --> 1357.02] None beside thee. -[1358.02 --> 1360.52] God Almighty. -[1361.32 --> 1365.02] The great I am. -[1365.02 --> 1378.82] I want to be near, near to your heart. -[1378.82 --> 1384.82] Love in the world and hate in the dark. -[1385.78 --> 1391.82] I want to see dry bones living again. -[1393.02 --> 1396.22] Singing as one. -[1396.22 --> 1405.82] Hallelujah, holy, holy, God Almighty. -[1406.68 --> 1410.12] The great I am. -[1410.12 --> 1412.92] Who is worthy? -[1414.08 --> 1416.98] None beside thee. -[1417.52 --> 1419.80] God Almighty. -[1419.80 --> 1424.80] The great I am. -[1424.80 --> 1429.70] The mountains shake before you. -[1429.70 --> 1433.00] The demons run and flee. -[1433.00 --> 1439.40] At the mention of your name, King of majesty. -[1439.40 --> 1443.68] There is no power in hell. -[1443.68 --> 1447.12] Or any who can stand. -[1447.12 --> 1454.90] Before the power and the presence of the great I am. -[1454.90 --> 1468.80] The great I am. -[1468.80 --> 1471.90] The great I am. -[1471.90 --> 1474.70] The great I am. -[1474.70 --> 1480.46] Hallelujah -[1480.46 --> 1484.72] Holy, holy -[1484.72 --> 1487.96] God almighty -[1487.96 --> 1492.08] The greater I am -[1492.08 --> 1494.92] Who is worthy -[1494.92 --> 1498.68] None beside thee -[1498.68 --> 1501.40] God almighty -[1501.40 --> 1505.56] The great I am -[1505.56 --> 1507.32] Hallelujah -[1507.32 --> 1511.72] Holy, holy -[1511.72 --> 1515.24] God almighty -[1515.24 --> 1519.64] The great I am -[1519.64 --> 1522.60] Who is worthy -[1522.60 --> 1526.68] None beside thee -[1526.68 --> 1529.74] God almighty -[1529.74 --> 1533.90] The great I am -[1533.90 --> 1552.56] I believe in Jesus Christ, his only son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit and was born of the Virgin Mary. -[1552.56 --> 1558.88] He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. -[1559.58 --> 1560.84] He descended to hell. -[1561.54 --> 1564.32] The third day he rose again from the dead. -[1564.90 --> 1570.40] He ascended to heaven and is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty. -[1571.20 --> 1575.10] From there he will come to judge the living and the dead. -[1575.10 --> 1575.18] Amen. -[1575.18 --> 1575.22] Amen. -[1582.56 --> 1590.42] The center of all history -[1590.42 --> 1596.62] Your cross and resurrection -[1596.62 --> 1603.64] Humiliation lifted me -[1603.64 --> 1609.24] Into a new creation -[1609.24 --> 1615.56] I am a new creation -[1615.56 --> 1625.52] My life now yielded to my King -[1625.52 --> 1630.62] My will to him surrender -[1630.62 --> 1638.28] I'm broken open at your feet -[1638.28 --> 1643.32] Your presence is my treasure -[1643.32 --> 1649.62] It's you alone I treasure -[1649.62 --> 1654.84] Holy -[1654.84 --> 1654.86] Holy -[1654.86 --> 1659.62] Worthy -[1659.62 --> 1667.84] You have no end -[1667.84 --> 1669.62] Holy -[1669.62 --> 1673.62] Worthy -[1673.62 --> 1680.32] We sing -[1680.32 --> 1680.62] Amen -[1680.62 --> 1682.62] Amen -[1682.62 --> 1684.62] Amen -[1684.62 --> 1694.16] Let every knee on earth bend low -[1694.16 --> 1699.62] And join the host of heaven -[1699.62 --> 1706.62] To him who sits upon the throne -[1706.62 --> 1711.68] Give praise and adoration -[1711.68 --> 1719.28] The gates of hell are overthrown -[1719.28 --> 1724.08] The yoke of slavery shattered -[1724.08 --> 1728.40] For Christ our King -[1728.40 --> 1731.08] He reigns alone -[1731.08 --> 1732.34] For Christ our King -[1732.34 --> 1733.34] He reigns alone -[1733.34 --> 1736.52] Now and forever after -[1736.52 --> 1738.66] Now and forever after -[1738.66 --> 1742.84] Now and forever after -[1742.84 --> 1743.84] Holy -[1743.84 --> 1747.84] Holy -[1747.84 --> 1749.84] Holy -[1749.84 --> 1753.84] Worthy -[1753.84 --> 1759.84] You have no end -[1759.84 --> 1760.84] Holy -[1760.84 --> 1763.84] Worthy -[1763.84 --> 1777.84] You have no end -[1777.84 --> 1778.84] Holy -[1778.84 --> 1785.84] You have no end -[1785.84 --> 1786.84] Holy -[1786.84 --> 1789.84] You have no end -[1789.84 --> 1790.84] Holy -[1790.84 --> 1793.84] You have no end -[1793.84 --> 1794.84] Holy -[1794.84 --> 1795.84] Holy -[1795.84 --> 1798.84] We sing -[1798.84 --> 1800.84] Amen -[1800.84 --> 1801.84] Amen -[1801.84 --> 1802.84] Amen -[1802.84 --> 1804.84] The center of all history -[1804.84 --> 1806.84] Amen. -[1809.84 --> 1820.84] The center of all history, your cross and resurrection. -[1820.84 --> 1844.84] I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. -[1850.84 --> 1852.84] Amen. -[1880.84 --> 1910.84] -[1910.84 --> 1922.84] Holy Spirit, come abide within. May your joy be seen in all I do. -[1922.84 --> 1934.84] Love enough to cover everything in each thought and deed and attitude. -[1934.84 --> 1936.84] Amen. -[1936.84 --> 1948.84] Kindness to the greatest and the least. Gentleness that sows the path of peace. -[1948.84 --> 1960.84] Turn my strivings into works of grace. Breath of God, show Christ in all I do. -[1962.84 --> 1974.84] Holy Spirit, from creation's birth, giving life to all that God has made. -[1974.84 --> 1988.84] Show your power once again on earth. Cause your church to hunger for your ways. -[1988.84 --> 2002.84] Let the fragrance of our prayers arise. Lead us on the road of sacrifice. -[2002.84 --> 2016.84] That in unity the face of Christ may be clear for all the world to see. -[2016.84 --> 2018.84] Pray with me. -[2018.84 --> 2035.84] Holy Spirit, living breath of God, we sing with passion for a renewing of our hearts, that your word may come alive in us, that Christ may be shown in all we do for all the world to see. -[2035.84 --> 2039.84] Do we know of what we sing? -[2039.84 --> 2041.84] Do we know of what we ask of you, God? -[2041.84 --> 2045.84] Or do the words pass through our lips in mindless motion? -[2045.84 --> 2055.84] Do we truly desire a renewing of our hearts and minds, a putting off of the old self and living into the new self in Christ? -[2055.84 --> 2063.84] Or are we comfortable in our sin and justify our ways in our wayward hearts? -[2063.84 --> 2071.84] Deep down in the vulnerability we never show, do we hide in the dark corners of our sin in fear of what the light will reveal? -[2071.84 --> 2081.84] Did we not just profess our belief in you, God the Father, Christ the Son, and the Holy Spirit? -[2081.84 --> 2084.84] What more do you ask of us, God? -[2084.84 --> 2089.84] Our life, all of it? -[2089.84 --> 2096.84] Your Son took your righteous wrath in its fullness that we might choose eternity with you. -[2096.84 --> 2102.84] O God, we are a wicked people and have rebelled, turning away from your commands. -[2102.84 --> 2111.84] And yet, your deep, deep love, vast, unmeasured, boundless, free, awaits our wayward hearts. -[2111.84 --> 2119.84] The current of your love tearing us from our sin and our hold on the world, replacing our desires heavenward. -[2119.84 --> 2121.84] Lead us on, O Lord. -[2126.84 --> 2155.84] O the deep, deep love of Jesus, vast, unmeasured, boundless, free, -[2155.84 --> 2157.84] O the deep, deep love of Jesus, vast, unmeasured, boundless, free, -[2157.84 --> 2172.84] Rolling as a mighty ocean in its fullness over me. -[2172.84 --> 2188.84] Underneath me, all around me, is the current of thy love. -[2188.84 --> 2205.84] Leading onward, leading homeward, leading homeward, to thy glorious rest above. -[2205.84 --> 2223.84] O the deep, deep love of Jesus, spread His praise from shore to shore. -[2223.84 --> 2239.84] How He loves us, ever loves us, changes never, nevermore. -[2239.84 --> 2256.84] How He watches for His loved ones, died to call them all His own. -[2256.84 --> 2274.84] How for them, He's interceding, washes on them from the throne. -[2274.84 --> 2294.04] O the deep, deep love of Jesus, love of every love the best. -[2294.04 --> 2303.04] Tis an ocean, vast of blessing. -[2303.04 --> 2304.04] Tis an ocean, vast of blessing. -[2304.04 --> 2312.04] Tis a haven, sweet of rest. -[2312.04 --> 2323.04] Oh, the deep, deep love of Jesus. -[2323.04 --> 2330.04] Tis a haven, of heaven, too high. -[2330.04 --> 2346.14] And it lifts me up to glory, for it lifts me up to thee. -[2348.88 --> 2350.16] You may be seated. -[2359.00 --> 2359.84] Good morning. -[2361.04 --> 2364.78] Today's special offering is for Cascade Christian Counseling. -[2365.30 --> 2369.96] It's a non-profit organization that's been in operation for over 35 years. -[2370.56 --> 2376.64] They offer a caring, faith-based approach to helping clients move towards healing. -[2377.48 --> 2384.42] They exist to provide psychologically valid Christian counseling and counseling services -[2384.42 --> 2386.26] to the whole community. -[2386.26 --> 2393.24] We raise funds in order to provide lower session fees to those who can't afford to get the help they need. -[2393.46 --> 2393.80] Thank you. -[2393.80 --> 2401.54] Thank you. -[2401.54 --> 2402.54] Thank you. -[2402.54 --> 2403.54] Thank you. -[2403.54 --> 2404.54] Thank you. -[2404.54 --> 2406.54] Thank you. -[2406.54 --> 2407.54] Thank you. -[2407.54 --> 2408.54] Thank you. -[2408.54 --> 2409.54] Thank you. -[2409.54 --> 2411.54] Thank you. -[2411.54 --> 2412.54] Thank you. -[2412.54 --> 2413.54] Thank you. -[2413.54 --> 2414.54] Thank you. -[2414.54 --> 2415.54] Thank you. -[2415.54 --> 2416.54] Thank you. -[2416.54 --> 2417.54] Thank you. -[2417.54 --> 2418.54] Thank you. -[2418.54 --> 2419.54] Thank you. -[2419.54 --> 2420.54] Thank you. -[2420.54 --> 2421.54] Thank you. -[2421.54 --> 2422.54] Thank you. -[2422.54 --> 2423.54] Thank you. -[2423.54 --> 2428.70] You are my hiding place. -[2429.42 --> 2439.38] You always fill my heart with songs of deliverance. -[2439.38 --> 2447.00] Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in you. -[2449.06 --> 2453.30] I will trust in you. -[2453.54 --> 2466.78] Let the weak say I am strong in the strength of the Lord. -[2467.12 --> 2469.54] I will trust in you. -[2469.54 --> 2475.14] You are my hiding place. -[2475.14 --> 2485.14] You always fill my heart with songs of deliverance. -[2485.14 --> 2493.14] Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in you. -[2493.14 --> 2499.14] I will trust in you. -[2499.14 --> 2512.16] Let the weak say I am strong in the strength of the Lord. -[2512.16 --> 2514.16] I will trust in you. -[2514.16 --> 2519.16] I will trust in you. -[2519.16 --> 2523.16] I will trust in you. -[2523.16 --> 2535.16] Let the weak say I am strong in the strength of the Lord. -[2535.16 --> 2540.16] I will trust in you. -[2540.16 --> 2544.18] Let the weak say I am strong -[2544.18 --> 2552.98] All right. -[2553.16 --> 2557.18] If we can get all of the children up here this morning for the children's blessing that would -[2557.18 --> 2558.46] Come on up, kids. -[2573.42 --> 2575.20] How's everybody doing this morning? -[2575.70 --> 2577.42] Who likes the sunshine out there? -[2577.84 --> 2578.32] Yeah? -[2579.28 --> 2581.70] Anybody going to go outside and play in the park today maybe? -[2582.18 --> 2582.44] Yeah? -[2582.58 --> 2583.50] It's going to be cool and fun? -[2584.14 --> 2584.40] Yeah? -[2584.82 --> 2585.52] That's good. -[2585.52 --> 2585.68] Okay. -[2586.84 --> 2589.36] How many of you kids are going to school already? -[2589.96 --> 2590.22] Yeah? -[2590.44 --> 2590.66] Yeah? -[2591.90 --> 2592.22] Yeah? -[2592.78 --> 2593.86] Has it been a good start? -[2593.92 --> 2594.44] Has it been fun? -[2594.94 --> 2595.30] Yeah? -[2595.44 --> 2596.88] Better than being at home all summer? -[2598.68 --> 2600.06] Not so sure about that one. -[2600.18 --> 2600.46] Okay. -[2602.12 --> 2607.22] We are, so just the preschoolers have children's worship time this morning. -[2607.32 --> 2609.20] So what we're going to do right now is we're going to do the blessing. -[2609.28 --> 2610.22] You guys know how to do the blessing? -[2610.64 --> 2613.26] I know usually a lot of the older kids here and help you out, but do you think you guys -[2613.26 --> 2613.80] can do this? -[2613.80 --> 2614.62] Help me out? -[2614.62 --> 2618.08] Because my memory's not so good, so you're going to have to help me out with this one. -[2618.56 --> 2619.06] Should we do that? -[2619.18 --> 2619.42] Okay. -[2619.56 --> 2620.44] Everybody stand up. -[2622.46 --> 2624.04] We're going to face the congregation. -[2624.24 --> 2624.78] Turn that way. -[2625.54 --> 2626.44] Put your hands out. -[2626.44 --> 2629.86] The Lord be with you. -[2629.86 --> 2631.50] And all of you. -[2631.50 --> 2644.42] All right. -[2644.42 --> 2644.44] All right. -[2644.50 --> 2650.04] As the children are exiting the room here, I'm just going to, we had a council meeting -[2650.04 --> 2651.04] this week. -[2651.04 --> 2654.30] So I thought it's a good time this morning to share some of the council notes that are -[2654.30 --> 2658.62] summaries that summary of what we were talking about and what we were up to this week at -[2658.62 --> 2659.64] our first council meeting. -[2659.64 --> 2666.10] It was our first council meeting of the season, so it was great to be able to welcome new council -[2666.10 --> 2672.42] members, those that were affirmed in the summer and have them with us for their first meeting. -[2673.42 --> 2678.06] Pastor Chris did a little training session at the beginning of the meeting talking about -[2678.06 --> 2683.00] what our roles and responsibilities are as elders, deacons, and as council members. -[2683.00 --> 2690.18] We also spent quite a bit of time talking about the town hall meeting that we had a few weeks -[2690.18 --> 2692.46] back pertaining to the young adult position. -[2693.32 --> 2698.52] So we felt that that meeting, that town hall went really well and we were encouraged by that -[2698.52 --> 2698.88] evening. -[2700.46 --> 2705.82] On October 2nd, we're going to have a special general meeting after the service to vote on -[2705.82 --> 2707.66] the young adult ministry position. -[2707.90 --> 2710.98] So make sure you put that in your calendar. -[2710.98 --> 2716.48] In your emails this morning, I think it went out about 9.30, the package for the young -[2716.48 --> 2721.42] adult position that we're proposing is all in there, all the information is there. -[2721.52 --> 2726.94] If there's anything you want to know or have any questions, the town hall meeting was videoed -[2726.94 --> 2731.02] and there's a link in the package and you can watch that. -[2731.70 --> 2733.40] It's good to see, good to watch. -[2735.84 --> 2737.34] I also want to thank Josh. -[2737.42 --> 2738.94] We didn't really have a, is Josh here this morning? -[2739.00 --> 2739.28] There he is. -[2739.28 --> 2740.66] We want to thank Josh this morning. -[2740.78 --> 2746.86] Like, we, we just want to thank him for the work he did in the past couple of years with -[2746.86 --> 2747.76] the young adult position. -[2747.90 --> 2751.88] It was pretty evident at the town hall meeting that the work he's been doing is very valuable -[2751.88 --> 2754.48] and the young adults here really appreciate the work he's done. -[2754.60 --> 2756.24] So we want to thank Josh for that. -[2756.24 --> 2764.66] I bet you weren't expecting that applause, but hey, everybody likes you. -[2764.66 --> 2765.08] That's good. -[2765.08 --> 2770.52] I just want to let you guys know, I know this is something that's been a lot on your mind -[2770.52 --> 2771.40] that's been mentioned to me. -[2771.46 --> 2774.08] We did have an opportunity this summer to do staff review. -[2774.20 --> 2775.44] So a lot of that work's been done. -[2775.50 --> 2778.30] Over COVID, we didn't, there wasn't a lot of great opportunity to do that. -[2778.36 --> 2779.90] So we've made that a priority this year. -[2780.44 --> 2781.44] So that's all been done. -[2781.50 --> 2784.12] So there's going to be some recommendations coming from that. -[2784.12 --> 2789.62] And the last thing I want to say is that for many of you who are involved in ministries, -[2789.80 --> 2795.12] that there's a, your budget requests have to be in on the 6th. -[2796.40 --> 2796.80] ASAP. -[2797.86 --> 2799.04] ASAP, like yesterday. -[2799.58 --> 2802.70] So if you get that in as soon as possible to Sylvia, that would be fantastic. -[2802.90 --> 2803.24] Thank you. -[2814.12 --> 2818.30] My name's Peter Van Heusen. -[2819.36 --> 2821.44] I'm going to lead you in congregational prayer. -[2821.54 --> 2826.40] Before I do that, I just want to draw attention that Wendy Piquet, -[2826.62 --> 2830.38] who's sitting at the back of the church there somewhere, maybe you could wave Wendy. -[2830.96 --> 2833.30] She's been worshiping with us for a couple of years, -[2833.30 --> 2838.38] and she leaves this week, Friday, for Soasen, closer to her daughter. -[2838.68 --> 2840.98] But we've enjoyed having her worship with us, -[2841.04 --> 2843.58] and she assures me she's certainly enjoyed our fellowship. -[2844.98 --> 2852.10] Today, this week, we also marked a three-year anniversary of the Murad family coming to us. -[2852.18 --> 2858.58] Maybe you could just stand for a moment there, just so that we just want to acknowledge three years. -[2858.58 --> 2858.92] Yeah. -[2862.12 --> 2867.46] And Hadil in the middle there, she graduated from high school, and she's going to Langara. -[2867.74 --> 2869.26] So we are very excited. -[2869.26 --> 2879.62] This coming week on the 19th will have been five years that the Agile family came to us, -[2879.84 --> 2881.20] and so we're thankful to them. -[2881.30 --> 2887.56] They also passed their citizenship test, and so they'll soon be receiving their citizenship, -[2887.84 --> 2892.00] so they've played a big role in our committee's life as well. -[2892.34 --> 2893.48] I'll lead you in prayer now. -[2893.48 --> 2897.14] Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be your name. -[2898.00 --> 2902.58] Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. -[2903.34 --> 2910.34] We thank you for this day and this opportunity to come to you in our church family prayer. -[2910.34 --> 2919.06] We give you praise that through the sacrifice of Jesus, we have access to your forgiveness and empowerment through the work of the Holy Spirit. -[2920.20 --> 2927.74] You encourage us to pray, and where words fail, your spirit enables even the most simple of words, -[2928.12 --> 2935.42] in whatever language we may use, to express our love, our fears, and our concerns to you. -[2935.42 --> 2940.82] This beautiful morning, we are reminded that life looks so good. -[2941.58 --> 2943.46] Our barns are full of grain. -[2944.18 --> 2946.16] The harvest looks good this September. -[2947.00 --> 2949.46] Our bank accounts for most of us are healthy. -[2950.44 --> 2954.36] Although inflation makes it hard for those on the margins in our community, -[2954.96 --> 2961.06] we have our deacons, the food bank, and the gateway of hope to ensure no one goes hungry. -[2961.06 --> 2968.96] Yet painful reminders that not all is well stalks our communities, province, and nation. -[2969.86 --> 2974.40] All our efforts at trying to solve the drug crisis seems to fall flat. -[2975.48 --> 2977.92] Gangs stalk our streets and shoot to kill. -[2978.68 --> 2982.20] Our medical resources are stretched to the breaking point. -[2983.10 --> 2986.38] Mental health concerns seem to be ever more present today. -[2986.38 --> 2991.28] Marriages fail, and family conflict can be ever present. -[2992.34 --> 2996.32] Faith in God and in faithful commitment to the church seems waning. -[2997.04 --> 2998.70] The list goes on and on. -[2999.66 --> 3000.76] What is one to do? -[3001.68 --> 3004.68] We lay these concerns at your feet, O Holy Father. -[3005.52 --> 3009.76] Provide our church family with the love, the counsel, and the leadership -[3009.76 --> 3016.86] to help each other discern the times we are living in and to keep our focus on Jesus. -[3019.42 --> 3022.94] Yet we rejoice that there is something we can do. -[3023.60 --> 3027.02] And as a church, we are thankful for the ministries that we offer. -[3028.06 --> 3034.94] Five years ago, September 19, the Agile family came to our community, sponsored by our church. -[3034.94 --> 3040.70] Three years ago, the Murads, on September the 16th, they were refugees, -[3041.38 --> 3044.62] and our sponsorship provided a way out of a horrible situation. -[3045.64 --> 3049.84] Today, we are ready to sponsor another family, the Nehmer family of four, -[3050.42 --> 3054.10] whose sponsorship through World Renew we entrust to your providence. -[3054.98 --> 3061.84] This morning, our lobby will provide a space where ministry opportunities will speak to places where we can volunteer. -[3061.84 --> 3070.04] We thank you that this church is a place where anyone can do something to carry out the mission of our church. -[3070.76 --> 3077.04] The church can show and direct each other so that we may have confidence in moving forward, -[3077.14 --> 3079.46] regardless of the challenges we may face. -[3080.82 --> 3085.74] These past ten days, we've been reflecting on the life work of Queen Elizabeth. -[3085.74 --> 3094.66] We thank you for her witness of you, her true sovereign, and her example of daily faithfulness and service. -[3095.58 --> 3101.08] History shows that there were many monarchs who were despots and had huge moral failings. -[3101.68 --> 3106.46] But we are thankful that our queen has not been a failure, but graceful and loving. -[3107.18 --> 3111.76] We thank you for her seven years of service to her country and also to ours. -[3111.76 --> 3118.48] We pray the new king, Charles III, will acknowledge you and rule with a desire to serve. -[3119.98 --> 3126.66] In grieving the loss of the queen, many speak of how this event also triggers for them memories of those who have passed away. -[3127.74 --> 3132.58] Some too soon, we could say, Dave Alexander and Louise Rezobos, -[3133.06 --> 3136.46] but others later in life who have shaped our hearts and minds. -[3136.46 --> 3141.08] Rika Emmons is coming back after being present for her mom's funeral. -[3142.00 --> 3145.56] We all have memories of loved ones who have gone before us. -[3146.32 --> 3151.50] Remind us each day, Lord, that our times are in your hands. -[3152.46 --> 3158.76] We continue to hear news from Ukraine that is encouraging, but also brutal, -[3159.24 --> 3162.70] in seeing how destructive and inhumane mankind can be. -[3162.70 --> 3166.04] We long to see peace between Ukraine and Russia. -[3166.92 --> 3171.54] We know that from the human heart can come the most despicable atrocities. -[3172.38 --> 3174.56] How long, Lord, must this go on? -[3175.40 --> 3177.90] Even the environment seems out of control. -[3178.72 --> 3182.10] We had our floods last November, and now it's Pakistan's turn. -[3182.10 --> 3187.60] Every year, there's another corner of the world that takes it in the chin with either a flood, -[3188.22 --> 3193.10] a fire, drought, pestilent tornado, or an earthquake. -[3194.18 --> 3200.44] Reminders that the creation groans and that it awaits the day of salvation, as we do. -[3201.38 --> 3204.36] May our actions treat our creation with respect -[3204.36 --> 3209.90] and mitigate through our lifestyle choices the care our natural environment craves. -[3210.80 --> 3213.90] We thank you, our Father, for listening to us. -[3214.68 --> 3216.38] Hear our prayers, O Lord. -[3217.08 --> 3219.04] Incline your ear to us. -[3219.80 --> 3224.68] We desire to grow more deeply into your presence and providence. -[3225.36 --> 3227.04] In Jesus' name we pray. -[3227.70 --> 3228.06] Amen. -[3228.06 --> 3228.18] Amen. -[3234.36 --> 3236.36] Amen. -[3256.36 --> 3263.84] During the month of September, we are in a beginning of the year, -[3263.84 --> 3267.98] a new ministry year series called This Is Our Church. -[3268.08 --> 3270.52] And we are looking at who we are. -[3270.84 --> 3274.58] And as I was reflecting on that this morning, I was reminded of it. -[3275.14 --> 3277.52] I just want to say thank you and bless you. -[3278.24 --> 3281.50] Because this is one of those mornings where it was really clear to me -[3281.50 --> 3284.56] that one of the things we are is a church that loves to sing. -[3285.62 --> 3287.48] And so singing this morning was great. -[3287.60 --> 3289.28] And thank you for blessing me with that. -[3289.36 --> 3290.78] I hope that you were blessed. -[3290.78 --> 3294.42] And we will have a chance to do that again following our worship. -[3294.48 --> 3298.62] I was also reminded this morning as Marguerite came up and as Peter reminded us -[3298.62 --> 3300.60] that we are a church that's doing things. -[3301.16 --> 3301.26] Right? -[3301.30 --> 3302.88] That there's things happening here. -[3302.96 --> 3306.32] We are a church that longs for the safety of your kids as they come. -[3306.42 --> 3308.60] And so we have safe church ministries, which is important. -[3308.72 --> 3311.58] We are a church that has sponsored refugees in the past. -[3311.58 --> 3316.78] And if you didn't catch it in the prayer, there is some good news coming out of the refugee sponsorship team -[3316.78 --> 3321.44] that we do have another family that we've committed to and are in process of. -[3321.52 --> 3324.60] And so Peter will give you details of that if you want and ask him. -[3324.70 --> 3326.58] He's going to be in the back following service. -[3326.98 --> 3331.94] And we've got all of those things back there for you to sign up and see and to engage in. -[3331.94 --> 3342.30] It is a beautiful testimony of God at work in us and of you at work in the world for him. -[3342.30 --> 3347.54] As we reflect this morning on what we do and why we do it, -[3347.68 --> 3353.54] it's loosely in these three weeks around the mission statement of our church, -[3353.62 --> 3360.54] which you may know is gather, grow, and go. -[3361.08 --> 3365.48] The exuberance on y'all this morning is just spilling forward. -[3366.82 --> 3368.92] Gather, grow, and go. -[3368.92 --> 3370.50] Last week we looked at gather. -[3370.50 --> 3373.50] This week we're looking at the question of grow. -[3373.82 --> 3378.24] And more particularly, why and how do we grow? -[3378.96 --> 3386.00] Now I was reminded this past summer that sometimes growth is incredibly visible. -[3387.08 --> 3389.28] So I have a daughter, she's nine years old. -[3389.96 --> 3395.74] And we went this summer back to Ontario where we were from to visit family and friends. -[3395.74 --> 3402.88] And my daughter in the last year has grown like a foot and four or five shoe sizes. -[3403.66 --> 3411.02] It is impossible to keep her in clothes for longer than one or two months, it seems. -[3411.12 --> 3412.24] And then she has to get new clothes. -[3412.32 --> 3413.22] Now she loves that. -[3414.62 --> 3416.18] The laundry pile does not. -[3416.18 --> 3418.40] I heard her just say now from the back, yes, see? -[3420.90 --> 3425.56] And when we went to visit people, they were blown away. -[3426.28 --> 3429.98] Oh my, Nora, look how big you've gotten, they would say. -[3430.54 --> 3433.38] Now, sometimes growth is visible too. -[3433.50 --> 3436.82] And I'm going to say this as well, rather to my own shame. -[3436.82 --> 3439.62] But my little niece, who's four, sat in my lap. -[3439.72 --> 3442.74] She poked me in this tummy and said, my, look how you've grown. -[3446.46 --> 3447.96] She's five now, thank you. -[3449.54 --> 3451.32] Point is, sometimes you can see it. -[3452.72 --> 3457.36] Sometimes growth is slower and it's more longer term. -[3457.36 --> 3462.72] And it takes an intentionality to see when it's happening. -[3463.48 --> 3470.20] And yet, we believe that growth has to be happening. -[3470.82 --> 3474.88] And so this morning, as we look at how we grow and how we are grown, -[3475.16 --> 3480.30] we will see both visible and invisible markers of that growth. -[3480.72 --> 3484.18] We're going to do that by looking at a text from Ephesians 4. -[3484.18 --> 3487.42] So if you have a Bible, I'm going to encourage you to open that up. -[3488.10 --> 3489.82] We'll turn to Ephesians 4. -[3490.30 --> 3493.22] For those of you who are new or maybe have not paid attention before, -[3493.30 --> 3495.68] but if you look at the screen, when you see the text, -[3495.76 --> 3497.22] and that little graph along the bottom, -[3497.92 --> 3503.06] that tells you approximately where in your Bible the text we're reading from is. -[3503.34 --> 3505.16] So if you're unfamiliar with Bibles, -[3505.48 --> 3509.12] and you see Ephesians is kind of in the latter, you know, fifth over there, -[3509.16 --> 3511.94] if you open up to the back fifth, you'll be pretty close to where you can find it. -[3511.94 --> 3514.80] So just a little, maybe you've never paid attention to that. -[3515.00 --> 3521.12] Anyway, Ephesians 4, I'm going to read verse 11 through 16. -[3521.46 --> 3524.94] That will be on the screen, but I do always encourage you to have it in your hands -[3524.94 --> 3527.26] because we will refer back pretty regularly. -[3528.30 --> 3531.28] So God's Word for us this morning. -[3531.28 --> 3540.24] So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors, and teachers -[3540.24 --> 3546.52] to equip his people for works of service so that the body of Christ may be built up -[3546.52 --> 3551.46] until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God -[3551.46 --> 3557.08] and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. -[3557.08 --> 3562.98] Then we will no longer be infants tossed back and forth by the waves -[3562.98 --> 3565.54] and blown here and there by every wind of teaching -[3565.54 --> 3569.50] and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. -[3570.72 --> 3573.90] Instead, speaking the truth in love, -[3574.32 --> 3580.90] we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head that is Christ. -[3580.90 --> 3587.64] From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, -[3588.00 --> 3593.90] grows and builds itself up in love as each part does its work. -[3594.36 --> 3595.58] This is the Word of the Lord. -[3599.52 --> 3606.66] Now this morning we're going to draw our application from the second half of the text that we read, -[3606.66 --> 3611.18] but in order to get there, I'm going to walk us through the first part as we go. -[3615.08 --> 3621.74] Now as I mentioned, the big question for us this September has been, who are we? -[3622.44 --> 3627.10] As a church, what are we about and why do we do it the way that we do it? -[3628.10 --> 3632.82] In a very real way, these couple weeks at the beginning of this ministry year, -[3632.82 --> 3635.14] we are saying, this is us. -[3635.98 --> 3636.96] This is our church. -[3637.06 --> 3641.14] This is who we are and who we are becoming, Lord willing. -[3642.46 --> 3647.30] And so, in this text, let's start with the foundation. -[3648.04 --> 3653.10] In verse 11, Paul, who wrote this letter to the church, he writes, -[3653.44 --> 3660.26] So Christ himself gave the apostles and the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors, and the teachers. -[3660.26 --> 3666.30] Now the first thing to see here is that it is Christ himself, right? -[3666.48 --> 3669.82] The foundation is Christ himself. -[3670.22 --> 3675.52] Christ himself gave the apostles and the teachers and the pastors. -[3675.74 --> 3676.94] Christ himself gave. -[3677.02 --> 3682.58] It starts with Jesus, and then, hold that in your mind, looking at verse 12, right? -[3682.58 --> 3692.84] But, to equip his people for works of service so that the body of Christ may be built up until we reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature. -[3693.20 --> 3694.14] Hear this last line. -[3694.68 --> 3699.44] Attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. -[3701.54 --> 3705.46] It starts with Jesus, and it ends with Jesus. -[3706.86 --> 3709.10] He is the beginning and the end. -[3709.10 --> 3716.94] He is the Alpha and the Omega, or as the author to Hebrews puts it, he is the author and finisher of our faith. -[3717.28 --> 3721.14] We're starting in him, ending up like him. -[3723.10 --> 3737.30] Now, I make this point because sometimes churches have worked really hard, or church leaders, particularly pastors, have worked really hard to build a church around the personality of the leader. -[3737.30 --> 3746.48] Now, that's not us, and may God forbid that ever becomes us, and if you see me tending in that direction, stop me. -[3747.80 --> 3748.90] Hold me accountable. -[3750.96 --> 3758.08] And sometimes, right, churches are built around a particular tradition or a particular expression of a tradition. -[3758.08 --> 3762.22] Time out. -[3763.18 --> 3766.00] Let's pause, because I believe tradition is good. -[3767.00 --> 3769.82] If you know me, you know that I have a university degree in history. -[3770.26 --> 3774.70] Last week, in our celebration of the Lord's Supper, we used a 2,000-year-old liturgy. -[3775.54 --> 3784.64] This morning's service, beautifully crafted by Sarah, was structured around the Apostles' Creed, a 1,500 to 1,800-year-old statement of faith. -[3784.64 --> 3795.86] Right, tradition is important, but tradition functions well when it is the firm foundation off of which we can step confidently into the future. -[3796.82 --> 3807.42] If all we are doing is looking into the past with rose-colored glasses, and we decry the loss of the good old days, remember when? -[3807.42 --> 3811.86] If that's our focus, it's actually in the wrong direction. -[3813.42 --> 3816.94] To paraphrase Yaroslav Peligan, he says, -[3817.06 --> 3819.74] Tradition is the living faith of the dead. -[3819.94 --> 3822.82] Traditionalism is the dead faith of the living. -[3824.46 --> 3828.18] Dead faith in churches results in dead churches. -[3828.18 --> 3838.14] Instead, we start and finish with a Jesus who is alive. -[3840.00 --> 3842.72] And so our faith is alive. -[3844.56 --> 3852.14] Now, sometimes as well, churches will identify themselves by a particular ethnic identity. -[3852.14 --> 3860.10] Now, some people in our neighborhood around here, right, will call this the Dutch church beside the school. -[3862.10 --> 3865.62] Some of you laugh and you hear that, and some of you are like, yeah, it is. -[3867.18 --> 3870.62] Some of you still think that way and take pride in that way. -[3870.84 --> 3874.04] And don't get me wrong, again, this is one of those don't hear what I'm not saying moments, right? -[3874.04 --> 3886.50] Especially for first wave immigrants into a new country, having your church family feel like a family is so important for your thriving and surviving in a totally new country. -[3887.84 --> 3899.84] But, and I really believe this to be true, the future of the Christian church in the West is multi-ethnic because the current reality of the West is multi-ethnic. -[3899.84 --> 3904.08] And so if our churches aren't, we've missed something. -[3906.44 --> 3911.52] Jesus is gathering a bride from every tribe and tongue and nation. -[3911.68 --> 3918.70] And if we are focused on Jesus, we will begin to manifest every tribe and tongue and nation already now. -[3920.12 --> 3921.12] And I was thinking about this. -[3921.20 --> 3927.16] In my two years here, I have spoken more Spanish or Korean from this stage than I have ever spoken Dutch. -[3927.16 --> 3931.48] And so why is there this reputation that persists? -[3934.50 --> 3941.32] Sometimes churches are built on a particular social need or a particular justice ministry. -[3941.62 --> 3943.54] And again, don't hear what I'm not saying, right? -[3943.62 --> 3949.16] Churches, and more specifically Christians, need and must, what does the prophet Micah say? -[3949.40 --> 3952.58] Love, mercy, act justly, and walk humbly with our God. -[3952.58 --> 3952.98] Right? -[3953.02 --> 3958.18] In relationship to and in service with disenfranchised people and marginalized people. -[3958.54 --> 3967.10] A comprehensive vision of the gospel, including both the king and his kingdom come and coming, will do that for us. -[3968.46 --> 3977.52] But it can easily happen that people, even those of us who profess to be Christian, want the kingdom without the king. -[3977.52 --> 3978.52] Right? -[3980.32 --> 3983.64] We want the good without the need for a savior. -[3985.94 --> 3993.66] Now, the primary task of the church, right, is to open and close the kingdom of heaven with the keys that God has given us. -[3993.70 --> 3996.64] And those keys are preaching and church discipline. -[3996.86 --> 4002.44] And so, yes and amen, we have a refugee sponsorship team and they are doing amazing work. -[4002.44 --> 4009.24] Yes and amen, we have food drives and we do food drives and we send people out on service trips and we must do these things. -[4009.54 --> 4015.12] But they cannot become the main thing, or at least the only thing, that the church does. -[4016.24 --> 4017.74] We aren't designed for that. -[4019.46 --> 4022.42] Now, as individuals, you are. -[4024.18 --> 4025.08] Let me put it this way. -[4025.08 --> 4031.28] The mission of the gathered church is different than the mission of the scattered church. -[4032.76 --> 4037.88] But they work together towards the goal of our maturity. -[4039.08 --> 4042.08] In fact, that's the point of this text in Ephesians. -[4042.74 --> 4043.08] Right? -[4043.20 --> 4048.00] We read Christ himself gave, so he is the foundation, right, and the goal. -[4048.12 --> 4049.26] He is the foundation. -[4049.42 --> 4054.38] Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors, and the teachers. -[4054.38 --> 4058.50] And notice that those are specifically church offices. -[4060.02 --> 4070.86] Apostles refers to the 12 disciples of Jesus after Matthias was added to replace Judas, after he betrayed Jesus. -[4071.84 --> 4077.60] Apostles can refer to Paul and Timothy and Silvanus, who is also known as Silas. -[4077.86 --> 4080.82] Apostles can refer to Barnabas and Titus. -[4080.82 --> 4088.26] Maybe, Apostles refers to Andronicus and Junia, depending on how you interpret the Greek of Romans 16. -[4088.70 --> 4091.24] We can have a special pastor's class for that after, if you're interested. -[4092.00 --> 4095.90] Point is, it's a particular office for particular people. -[4096.42 --> 4097.24] Likewise, prophets. -[4097.58 --> 4104.18] In the New Testament era, prophets refers to a group of people who are associated with the apostles, -[4104.18 --> 4108.84] who usually traveled with them or would be established wherever they ended up. -[4109.16 --> 4112.08] And they would sometimes speak the future in prophecy. -[4112.32 --> 4114.06] That's the way we commonly use the word. -[4114.40 --> 4123.20] But most often, they would gather to speak and encourage and strengthen and rebuke and hold to account believers at their particular gatherings. -[4123.20 --> 4131.50] Evangelists, again, we can trace this through the book of Acts and into early church history, -[4132.04 --> 4138.66] refers to those people who went around the known world as missionaries, but who weren't apostles. -[4140.34 --> 4146.12] And then we get pastors and teachers, which is maybe one we're more familiar with in our everyday language. -[4146.12 --> 4153.90] Pastors and teachers here is a word pairing, and the word translated pastor is actually shepherd. -[4155.84 --> 4162.92] Now, Peter says that it's the elders of the church who are to be shepherds of God's flock that is under their care. -[4163.76 --> 4168.72] And so I, as a pastor here, am one of the elders in this church. -[4168.86 --> 4174.08] Pastor Kevin is an elder here, and so are seven other men who have been called by God -[4174.08 --> 4177.28] and installed into that position here in the work that we do. -[4178.30 --> 4180.90] And so, follow the logic of this text. -[4181.96 --> 4187.60] Christ himself, as the foundation and goal, gave these specific offices, -[4188.30 --> 4191.44] plus others that are not mentioned in this text, right, like deacons, -[4192.24 --> 4199.64] and he gave specific gifts, like prophecy or tongues or teaching or giving or hospitality, -[4199.64 --> 4207.02] to equip his people for works of service. -[4208.92 --> 4212.92] About that, works of service, notice two things. -[4213.02 --> 4218.36] First, Jesus is the one equipping, right? -[4218.42 --> 4223.06] The specific offices, whatever they are, are offices of means. -[4223.44 --> 4226.44] That is, they're through whom Jesus is working. -[4226.44 --> 4229.24] Jesus gives and causes the growth. -[4229.70 --> 4232.48] That's why Paul will say in 1 Corinthians 3, -[4232.94 --> 4236.92] one plants, one waters, God gives the growth, right? -[4237.00 --> 4241.16] Jesus equips his people by using his people. -[4243.02 --> 4246.38] And so now, in the big question, right, of why grow, -[4246.92 --> 4250.32] the first answer is, because Jesus is growing us. -[4250.32 --> 4250.96] Right? -[4251.68 --> 4258.14] Draw near to Jesus, become part of his body, and you will grow and be grown. -[4258.40 --> 4260.84] It's unavoidable. -[4262.58 --> 4267.00] And somehow, if you manage to avoid growing, -[4269.22 --> 4273.88] and you've been a Christian, or at least you've been attending church for a really long time, -[4273.88 --> 4277.66] the question you need to be asking yourself right now is, -[4279.04 --> 4281.84] why am I holding Jesus at arm's length? -[4283.70 --> 4286.62] Because when you're close to him, you grow. -[4288.28 --> 4289.98] Now, it might be slow, right? -[4290.82 --> 4292.08] It might be incremental. -[4292.66 --> 4298.14] It might be almost impossible to notice in the moment that you find yourself right now. -[4298.14 --> 4301.32] But over the course of a lifetime, it will be clear. -[4301.52 --> 4303.52] Because Christians grow. -[4304.38 --> 4308.98] We are constantly being transformed by the renewal of our minds -[4308.98 --> 4312.54] and the power of the Holy Spirit into the image of Jesus Christ. -[4312.92 --> 4317.80] This is the work that God is doing in you and through you right now, right here. -[4318.08 --> 4321.34] And this is the work that we, together, get to witness -[4321.34 --> 4324.98] and to be part of in church life together. -[4324.98 --> 4328.78] And second, notice, -[4330.08 --> 4335.62] Christ gave to equip the saints, his people, for works of service. -[4336.44 --> 4339.92] That phrase, works of service, is really interesting. -[4341.14 --> 4346.66] First of all, all of the offices, all of the leadership, all of the direction, -[4346.92 --> 4349.24] all of the discipleship, all of the pouring into, -[4349.64 --> 4351.30] all of the preaching and teaching, -[4351.30 --> 4354.86] all of the opening and closing of the kingdom of heaven through the keys, -[4354.98 --> 4357.54] all of the gathering that we do, -[4357.82 --> 4361.26] is to equip his people for works of service. -[4362.44 --> 4368.20] That word, service, that Paul uses here in Greek is the word diakonia, -[4369.08 --> 4372.26] which maybe sounds like a word we're more familiar with here -[4372.26 --> 4374.18] because that's where we get the word deacon from. -[4375.68 --> 4378.82] Now, a deacon, someone who serves, -[4378.82 --> 4381.06] the word literally means servant. -[4382.34 --> 4387.20] Specifically, in the New Testament, it is a table servant, right? -[4387.20 --> 4392.24] Someone who brings and provides food for those who are reclining at the table. -[4393.32 --> 4394.38] And so, here in that, right, -[4394.42 --> 4398.32] that the life of the Christian who is growing in his or her faith -[4398.32 --> 4400.66] is a life of servanthood to Christ -[4400.66 --> 4403.10] and a life of service in Christ. -[4403.10 --> 4406.88] And so, the question really is, for you this morning, -[4407.08 --> 4409.30] what is your area of service? -[4409.98 --> 4411.48] Where are you serving? -[4412.14 --> 4416.18] Because growth and serving go hand in glove together. -[4417.14 --> 4417.58] Right? -[4417.60 --> 4420.18] If you're looking to grow, then practice service. -[4421.04 --> 4422.64] If you want to grow in your faith, -[4422.78 --> 4425.84] exercise that faith in service to the people around you, -[4425.88 --> 4427.48] whether they're here in our church community -[4427.48 --> 4429.42] or broader in our neighborhood community. -[4429.42 --> 4431.86] If you want to grow in your faith, -[4433.12 --> 4434.98] consider signing up after the service, -[4435.92 --> 4437.32] right, to be a GEMS counselor. -[4438.10 --> 4441.90] Or, if you're a young girl, to participate in the GEMS program. -[4442.76 --> 4447.02] Consider signing up after the service to be a sound or media technician -[4447.02 --> 4450.30] or to volunteer or to join up into a small group. -[4451.16 --> 4453.22] One of the ways you grow, -[4453.36 --> 4456.48] one of the ways that you are grown as Jesus does this work, -[4456.48 --> 4459.96] is not just by Bible studies and by coffee break, -[4460.06 --> 4460.94] both of which are awesome, -[4461.12 --> 4463.40] and you have opportunities to sign up for both of those -[4463.40 --> 4464.94] after service today, too. -[4465.90 --> 4470.12] But it's by helping in the nursery that you are grown. -[4470.60 --> 4474.04] It's by volunteering for kitchen cleanup after coffee -[4474.04 --> 4475.34] that you are grown. -[4475.34 --> 4480.56] And then finally, in this first section, -[4482.80 --> 4486.36] Christ, as the foundation and the goal, -[4486.50 --> 4488.74] has given us these offices and leaders -[4488.74 --> 4491.52] in order that we, all his people, -[4491.68 --> 4493.38] might be equipped for works of service. -[4493.68 --> 4494.66] And we read, -[4497.66 --> 4502.46] so that the body of Christ may be built up. -[4505.34 --> 4506.58] So I'll say it again. -[4507.76 --> 4511.70] Your serving leads to your growing. -[4513.06 --> 4513.74] But there's more, -[4514.06 --> 4515.46] because there's another way, -[4515.56 --> 4516.60] maybe a better way, -[4516.66 --> 4518.66] to translate this line here. -[4519.32 --> 4520.54] I'm going to read the whole thing again, -[4520.62 --> 4523.94] but I'll translate it in my own words here. -[4524.80 --> 4526.80] Christ himself gave the apostles, -[4527.02 --> 4528.32] the prophets, the evangelists, -[4528.42 --> 4529.66] the shepherds and teachers -[4529.66 --> 4532.70] to equip his people for works of service, -[4532.70 --> 4536.38] that is, to build up the body of Christ, -[4537.12 --> 4539.20] until we all reach unity in the faith -[4539.20 --> 4541.78] that have the knowledge of the Son of God -[4541.78 --> 4542.80] and become mature, -[4543.28 --> 4544.70] attaining to the whole measure -[4544.70 --> 4546.38] of the fullness of Christ. -[4546.96 --> 4548.24] Did you catch the difference? -[4549.50 --> 4551.94] To equip his people for works of service, -[4551.94 --> 4555.30] that is, to build up the body of Christ. -[4555.30 --> 4557.92] What Paul is saying here -[4557.92 --> 4561.24] is that the works of service -[4561.24 --> 4563.74] that you are being equipped for -[4563.74 --> 4565.14] is the building up of the body. -[4566.06 --> 4567.50] It's not another thing. -[4567.60 --> 4568.86] It's not an extra thing. -[4569.06 --> 4570.14] It's not an add-on. -[4570.26 --> 4571.84] Sometimes we hear messages like this -[4571.84 --> 4572.16] and we go, -[4572.50 --> 4573.68] oh, really, another thing? -[4574.64 --> 4575.68] But that's not what this is. -[4576.00 --> 4577.74] This is the building up of the body. -[4577.96 --> 4578.72] This is growing. -[4578.94 --> 4579.82] This is strengthening. -[4580.20 --> 4581.24] This is discipleship. -[4581.34 --> 4582.40] This is the transformation -[4582.40 --> 4584.08] that has been promised to you. -[4584.30 --> 4585.16] This is the work. -[4585.72 --> 4587.74] And it is work that God is doing -[4587.74 --> 4589.52] in you and through you -[4589.52 --> 4590.44] and in our midst. -[4591.32 --> 4592.98] And it's work that you are called to. -[4593.68 --> 4593.80] Right? -[4593.90 --> 4596.24] Everyone who professes to believe. -[4598.84 --> 4600.10] And so the end of which, -[4600.30 --> 4601.56] the goal of which, -[4601.70 --> 4603.08] the telos of which, -[4603.80 --> 4606.10] is that we all might become mature, -[4607.30 --> 4608.88] attaining to the whole measure -[4608.88 --> 4611.04] of the fullness of Christ. -[4611.20 --> 4614.30] Now, that's a beautiful, poetic language. -[4614.30 --> 4616.60] But it's also growth language. -[4618.24 --> 4620.50] And I want you to become mature. -[4622.30 --> 4624.02] So why grow? -[4625.22 --> 4629.04] Because growth means Jesus is real to you. -[4629.46 --> 4633.04] Because growth means Jesus is really here in our midst. -[4633.40 --> 4635.54] Because growth means something is happening -[4635.54 --> 4636.52] in your transformation, -[4636.52 --> 4638.24] and that's happening here. -[4638.24 --> 4638.92] Right? -[4639.06 --> 4640.90] Through us and in you. -[4641.90 --> 4645.28] To use another metaphor of Jesus from John 15, -[4645.98 --> 4647.96] we grow in the fruit of faith -[4647.96 --> 4649.96] because we are genuinely connected -[4649.96 --> 4651.38] to the vine, -[4651.50 --> 4652.86] who is Jesus. -[4653.52 --> 4655.46] If you are connected to the vine, -[4655.46 --> 4659.16] it is impossible not to produce fruit. -[4662.46 --> 4663.20] And so, -[4663.54 --> 4665.26] here we come -[4665.26 --> 4666.84] to the heart of the matter. -[4667.68 --> 4668.14] Right? -[4668.18 --> 4668.88] The application -[4668.88 --> 4670.48] of the principle. -[4670.94 --> 4672.46] Here we move from why grow -[4672.46 --> 4673.76] to how. -[4674.60 --> 4675.50] How do I grow? -[4675.50 --> 4679.90] Paul writes in verse 14. -[4680.44 --> 4681.94] Then we will no longer be infants -[4681.94 --> 4683.12] tossed back and forth -[4683.12 --> 4683.76] by the waves, -[4684.26 --> 4685.34] blown here and there -[4685.34 --> 4686.54] by every wind of teaching -[4686.54 --> 4687.22] and by the cunning -[4687.22 --> 4688.44] and craftiness of people -[4688.44 --> 4689.74] in their deceitful scheming. -[4690.34 --> 4690.74] Instead, -[4691.06 --> 4692.90] speaking the truth in love, -[4693.42 --> 4694.74] we will grow to become -[4694.74 --> 4695.66] in every respect -[4695.66 --> 4696.94] the mature body of him -[4696.94 --> 4698.08] who is the head. -[4698.46 --> 4699.28] That is Christ. -[4700.16 --> 4700.86] From him, -[4700.94 --> 4701.62] the whole body, -[4701.74 --> 4702.76] joined and held together -[4702.76 --> 4704.10] by every supporting ligament, -[4704.10 --> 4705.98] grows and builds itself up -[4705.98 --> 4706.58] in love -[4706.58 --> 4707.90] as each part -[4707.90 --> 4709.74] does its work. -[4711.70 --> 4712.54] So right now, -[4712.58 --> 4713.38] I'm going to suggest -[4713.38 --> 4714.54] to you -[4714.54 --> 4715.68] a grid -[4715.68 --> 4717.78] which we can sort of overlay -[4717.78 --> 4719.62] on these verses here -[4719.62 --> 4720.92] through which -[4720.92 --> 4722.04] we can understand -[4722.04 --> 4723.06] this -[4723.06 --> 4724.94] how to grow. -[4725.06 --> 4726.42] The three steps -[4726.42 --> 4727.94] of these verses. -[4728.08 --> 4729.02] Now, those three steps -[4729.02 --> 4729.66] are one, -[4729.90 --> 4730.70] deconstruction, -[4731.16 --> 4731.54] two, -[4731.76 --> 4732.32] instruction, -[4732.76 --> 4733.84] and then three, -[4734.10 --> 4735.02] reconstruction. -[4736.64 --> 4737.34] So we'll start -[4737.34 --> 4737.86] with number one, -[4739.44 --> 4740.16] deconstruction. -[4740.72 --> 4742.00] Now, you've probably, -[4742.16 --> 4743.02] if you've been around here -[4743.02 --> 4743.72] for a little while, -[4743.82 --> 4744.82] have heard me talk -[4744.82 --> 4745.68] about this before, -[4746.28 --> 4748.30] but in our culture, -[4748.68 --> 4749.44] right now, -[4749.56 --> 4752.66] there's a progressive movement -[4752.66 --> 4754.32] or some other movement -[4754.32 --> 4755.30] away from -[4755.30 --> 4757.06] kind of traditional -[4757.06 --> 4759.20] orthodox Christian faith -[4759.20 --> 4760.38] by people -[4760.38 --> 4761.44] who grew up -[4761.44 --> 4762.70] in that tradition. -[4762.70 --> 4764.94] and these people, -[4765.16 --> 4765.26] right, -[4765.30 --> 4766.28] not only are they -[4766.28 --> 4767.66] claiming no faith -[4767.66 --> 4768.94] or a general -[4768.94 --> 4770.32] secular creed -[4770.32 --> 4771.34] in its place, -[4772.42 --> 4773.24] what is happening -[4773.24 --> 4774.68] is that they're advocating -[4774.68 --> 4775.64] for other people -[4775.64 --> 4776.32] to do the same, -[4776.86 --> 4777.00] right? -[4777.00 --> 4777.94] They're teaching people -[4777.94 --> 4778.82] how to leave -[4778.82 --> 4779.52] the faith -[4779.52 --> 4780.68] that they were raised in. -[4780.76 --> 4781.46] They're becoming -[4781.46 --> 4782.76] evangelists -[4782.76 --> 4784.20] for what is called -[4784.20 --> 4785.24] the exvangelical -[4785.24 --> 4786.60] or the de-churched. -[4786.60 --> 4787.66] Now, -[4787.86 --> 4790.42] in this modern movement, -[4790.50 --> 4791.26] or maybe it's -[4791.26 --> 4792.68] a smaller movement, -[4793.18 --> 4794.24] but it's called -[4794.24 --> 4795.28] deconstruction. -[4796.12 --> 4796.26] Now, -[4797.08 --> 4797.80] for those of you -[4797.80 --> 4798.28] who have training -[4798.28 --> 4799.32] or have read -[4799.32 --> 4800.04] some philosophy, -[4800.18 --> 4800.80] I want to be clear here, -[4801.06 --> 4802.14] this is not the same -[4802.14 --> 4803.20] deconstructionism -[4803.20 --> 4804.38] of French philosophy -[4804.38 --> 4805.66] in the late 20th century -[4805.66 --> 4806.36] with people like -[4806.36 --> 4806.88] Jacques Derrida, -[4807.44 --> 4808.44] although the -[4808.44 --> 4809.86] evangelical modern version -[4809.86 --> 4810.92] might be -[4810.92 --> 4811.50] the sort of -[4811.50 --> 4812.36] pop culture fruit -[4812.36 --> 4812.84] of that, -[4813.10 --> 4813.64] but again, -[4813.68 --> 4814.32] we can talk about -[4814.32 --> 4814.72] that after. -[4815.78 --> 4816.74] The idea here -[4816.74 --> 4818.26] is that you -[4818.26 --> 4819.38] deconstruct, -[4819.60 --> 4820.52] you take apart, -[4820.76 --> 4821.70] you disassemble -[4821.70 --> 4822.36] the beliefs -[4822.36 --> 4823.06] that were handed -[4823.06 --> 4823.66] to you. -[4824.44 --> 4825.44] Some of their language -[4825.44 --> 4826.08] is the beliefs -[4826.08 --> 4826.90] that were projected -[4826.90 --> 4827.50] to you -[4827.50 --> 4828.64] are forced on you -[4828.64 --> 4829.68] at a young age. -[4829.82 --> 4831.08] You deconstruct them -[4831.08 --> 4832.56] in order to cast them off, -[4833.14 --> 4834.28] and then what you do -[4834.28 --> 4835.20] is you take on -[4835.20 --> 4835.68] the modern, -[4835.84 --> 4836.22] progressive, -[4836.88 --> 4837.98] secular creed. -[4839.90 --> 4840.32] Now, -[4840.36 --> 4841.16] this is a reality -[4841.16 --> 4842.90] that we all find -[4842.90 --> 4844.02] ourselves living -[4844.02 --> 4844.48] in the midst -[4844.48 --> 4845.14] of right now, -[4845.22 --> 4845.98] but this is -[4845.98 --> 4847.52] particularly important -[4847.52 --> 4848.36] of a conversation, -[4848.52 --> 4849.22] and particularly -[4849.22 --> 4851.02] this is affecting -[4851.02 --> 4851.78] those of you -[4851.78 --> 4852.58] who are teenagers -[4852.58 --> 4853.78] and in your early -[4853.78 --> 4854.50] 20s right now, -[4854.56 --> 4855.14] because this is all -[4855.14 --> 4856.50] over your social -[4856.50 --> 4857.06] media world. -[4858.06 --> 4858.26] And so, -[4858.34 --> 4859.02] especially you, -[4859.22 --> 4860.18] I want you to hear this. -[4861.78 --> 4862.98] As you differentiate -[4862.98 --> 4863.70] yourself, -[4863.80 --> 4864.46] maybe from your -[4864.46 --> 4865.64] parents' belief, -[4865.96 --> 4867.60] as you differentiate -[4867.60 --> 4868.80] yourself and decide -[4868.80 --> 4870.70] to take responsibility -[4870.70 --> 4872.48] for what you believe -[4872.48 --> 4874.42] to the faith -[4874.42 --> 4875.94] that was told to you, -[4876.44 --> 4877.00] Lord willing, -[4877.16 --> 4877.78] that becomes -[4877.78 --> 4878.96] the faith that is -[4878.96 --> 4880.18] held in you. -[4881.86 --> 4883.10] And as you do that, -[4883.16 --> 4883.96] I want you to ask -[4883.96 --> 4885.12] those hard questions. -[4886.20 --> 4886.96] And I want this -[4886.96 --> 4887.62] to be a place -[4887.62 --> 4888.64] where we can wrestle -[4888.64 --> 4890.16] with those hard questions, -[4890.26 --> 4891.88] where we can deconstruct -[4891.88 --> 4893.20] what people had once -[4893.20 --> 4894.50] considered religious norms -[4894.50 --> 4895.04] and are, -[4895.16 --> 4895.64] in fact, -[4895.94 --> 4897.86] products of social constructs. -[4897.86 --> 4898.76] Let's talk about -[4898.76 --> 4899.54] that kind of stuff. -[4900.50 --> 4901.56] Let's talk about -[4901.56 --> 4902.46] that together, -[4902.94 --> 4903.10] right, -[4903.22 --> 4904.20] face to face. -[4905.36 --> 4906.18] Because doing this -[4906.18 --> 4907.54] as a keyboard warrior, -[4907.70 --> 4908.32] doing this in your -[4908.32 --> 4908.94] echo chamber, -[4909.08 --> 4910.48] doing this on your own, -[4910.78 --> 4912.92] is not helpful -[4912.92 --> 4914.86] and perhaps even dangerous. -[4916.02 --> 4916.72] Let's get together -[4916.72 --> 4917.38] in a room -[4917.38 --> 4918.58] so that we can come -[4918.58 --> 4919.54] out the other side -[4919.54 --> 4920.70] better together. -[4921.84 --> 4922.32] In fact, -[4923.14 --> 4925.76] we are relaunching here -[4925.76 --> 4926.64] a ministry called -[4926.64 --> 4927.80] Roots and Routes. -[4927.86 --> 4929.38] Which is a book study group. -[4929.56 --> 4930.20] It's an opportunity -[4930.20 --> 4931.58] to get informed -[4931.58 --> 4932.10] on something, -[4932.18 --> 4932.86] to come together -[4932.86 --> 4934.02] and then just hash it out, -[4934.12 --> 4935.40] to wonder and to talk about it. -[4936.36 --> 4937.22] You can sign up -[4937.22 --> 4937.96] for that at the back. -[4938.60 --> 4939.40] Perry and Bert -[4939.40 --> 4940.20] will be back there. -[4940.28 --> 4941.10] You can get information -[4941.10 --> 4941.64] from them. -[4941.74 --> 4942.48] And the first book -[4942.48 --> 4942.94] that we are going -[4942.94 --> 4943.48] to read together -[4943.48 --> 4944.00] is called -[4944.00 --> 4945.10] The Secular Creed -[4945.10 --> 4946.20] and it engages -[4946.20 --> 4947.72] this conversation exactly. -[4948.66 --> 4949.66] So I'm going to invite you -[4949.66 --> 4950.38] to that table, -[4951.38 --> 4951.54] right, -[4951.62 --> 4953.20] to talk to someone there -[4953.20 --> 4954.40] and get signed up. -[4954.46 --> 4955.88] Become part of that conversation, -[4956.04 --> 4957.04] especially if you are -[4957.04 --> 4957.82] a young person here -[4957.82 --> 4958.54] because your voice -[4958.54 --> 4959.38] is so important -[4959.38 --> 4960.44] and matters for us -[4960.44 --> 4961.78] to hear in that. -[4963.30 --> 4963.78] But, -[4964.06 --> 4966.12] even as we deconstruct -[4966.12 --> 4966.88] old beliefs, -[4967.06 --> 4968.20] even as we differentiate -[4968.20 --> 4969.62] to our own unique expression -[4969.62 --> 4970.26] of belief, -[4970.70 --> 4972.14] we need to take -[4972.14 --> 4973.58] that same engagement, -[4974.46 --> 4974.58] right, -[4974.62 --> 4976.32] that same desire -[4976.32 --> 4977.82] to ask hard questions, -[4978.04 --> 4979.08] that same impulse -[4979.08 --> 4980.04] to deconstruct, -[4980.86 --> 4981.78] we need to take that -[4981.78 --> 4982.58] and apply it -[4982.58 --> 4983.18] to the beliefs -[4983.18 --> 4983.90] and the creeds -[4983.90 --> 4984.56] of our culture. -[4985.36 --> 4986.10] That's what Paul -[4986.10 --> 4986.90] is saying here. -[4987.66 --> 4988.96] That the fruit of growing, -[4989.10 --> 4990.04] the result of growing, -[4990.18 --> 4991.02] of becoming mature, -[4991.16 --> 4992.26] of no longer being infants, -[4992.64 --> 4993.76] means that we don't have -[4993.76 --> 4994.38] to be tossed -[4994.38 --> 4995.14] back and forth -[4995.14 --> 4995.82] by the waves -[4995.82 --> 4997.28] and blown here and there -[4997.28 --> 4998.62] by every wind of teaching -[4998.62 --> 4999.32] or by the cunning -[4999.32 --> 5000.52] and craftiness of people -[5000.52 --> 5002.10] into their disqueful steaming. -[5003.06 --> 5005.10] We need to deconstruct -[5005.10 --> 5006.14] the teachings, -[5006.46 --> 5007.26] all the teachings, -[5007.26 --> 5008.64] that we come across. -[5008.74 --> 5009.30] We need to test -[5009.30 --> 5010.06] every spirit. -[5010.32 --> 5010.78] This is what we're -[5010.78 --> 5011.46] encouraged to do -[5011.46 --> 5012.04] in the Bible -[5012.04 --> 5013.08] and we need to ask -[5013.08 --> 5013.78] the hard questions -[5013.78 --> 5014.80] of every idea. -[5015.24 --> 5016.44] That's what we do here. -[5018.12 --> 5019.16] And can I tell you, -[5019.28 --> 5019.54] again, -[5019.80 --> 5021.10] because I do love tradition, -[5021.54 --> 5022.10] the tradition -[5022.10 --> 5023.14] of the Christian faith -[5023.14 --> 5024.78] is to not shy away -[5024.78 --> 5026.10] from hard conversations -[5026.10 --> 5027.40] and these kinds of questions. -[5028.38 --> 5030.04] And that's how growth starts. -[5032.08 --> 5033.36] But it's not enough -[5033.36 --> 5034.28] just to cast off -[5034.28 --> 5035.38] these old beliefs -[5035.38 --> 5036.36] or to deconstruct -[5036.36 --> 5037.06] other beliefs. -[5037.96 --> 5039.22] We have to cling -[5039.22 --> 5040.92] to a new belief -[5040.92 --> 5042.24] or a right belief. -[5043.12 --> 5044.10] In the words of my grid, -[5044.24 --> 5045.10] we need to receive -[5045.10 --> 5045.80] an instruction. -[5046.86 --> 5048.00] That's step two, right? -[5048.06 --> 5048.48] Paul says, -[5048.92 --> 5049.28] instead, -[5049.60 --> 5050.78] speaking the truth -[5050.78 --> 5051.74] in love. -[5052.70 --> 5053.62] Now that's a phrase, -[5053.78 --> 5054.50] truth in love -[5054.50 --> 5055.52] or truth in grace -[5055.52 --> 5056.98] that sometimes gets bandied about -[5056.98 --> 5057.56] and we haven't done -[5057.56 --> 5058.78] a good job of defining it. -[5059.44 --> 5060.60] But that means -[5060.60 --> 5062.68] hearing a word of truth -[5062.68 --> 5064.14] spoken in a way -[5064.14 --> 5065.88] that compels my imagination -[5065.88 --> 5067.54] and captivates my heart. -[5067.54 --> 5069.00] It means receiving -[5069.00 --> 5070.32] an instruction -[5070.32 --> 5071.60] that I know -[5071.60 --> 5072.78] not only intuitively -[5072.78 --> 5073.72] to be true, -[5073.92 --> 5075.34] but that I can see -[5075.34 --> 5077.06] working out logically -[5077.06 --> 5078.82] also as true. -[5079.96 --> 5080.90] We need to sit -[5080.90 --> 5082.06] under the preached word -[5082.06 --> 5083.42] week in and week out. -[5083.64 --> 5084.30] We need to allow -[5084.30 --> 5085.00] the Holy Spirit -[5085.00 --> 5086.14] to transform us. -[5086.24 --> 5087.34] We need to sit with mentors -[5087.34 --> 5088.46] and with other disciples -[5088.46 --> 5089.54] and we need to study -[5089.54 --> 5090.02] the scriptures. -[5090.46 --> 5091.30] We need to be students -[5091.30 --> 5091.98] of the word -[5091.98 --> 5093.68] so that we can be disciples -[5093.68 --> 5095.28] who live the word. -[5095.28 --> 5098.68] Do this -[5098.68 --> 5100.94] and in doing this -[5100.94 --> 5103.34] we need to ask ourselves -[5103.34 --> 5106.40] what are you consuming? -[5107.40 --> 5108.58] What are you taking in? -[5108.62 --> 5110.50] What are you being instructed in? -[5110.56 --> 5111.74] Whether it's on social media, -[5112.16 --> 5112.96] Instagram or TikTok -[5112.96 --> 5113.96] or Facebook, -[5114.40 --> 5115.26] maybe Facebook is one -[5115.26 --> 5115.94] of the worst places -[5115.94 --> 5116.76] right now for that. -[5117.46 --> 5118.64] Whether it's in podcasts -[5118.64 --> 5119.60] or TV shows, -[5119.68 --> 5120.34] what are the places -[5120.34 --> 5121.60] that you are taking in? -[5121.68 --> 5122.84] Because these things, -[5123.18 --> 5123.86] these spaces, -[5123.86 --> 5124.94] are not neutral. -[5125.38 --> 5126.38] They're all shaping us -[5126.38 --> 5128.02] in a particular way -[5128.02 --> 5129.56] into a particular vision -[5129.56 --> 5130.28] of the true -[5130.28 --> 5131.00] and the good -[5131.00 --> 5131.88] and the beautiful. -[5133.58 --> 5134.94] And I guess the question -[5134.94 --> 5136.66] for you to discern -[5136.66 --> 5138.88] is are you receiving -[5138.88 --> 5139.54] instruction -[5139.54 --> 5140.80] from the sages -[5140.80 --> 5141.78] of this world -[5141.78 --> 5143.12] or are you receiving -[5143.12 --> 5143.68] instruction -[5143.68 --> 5144.48] from the true -[5144.48 --> 5145.82] and better rabbi -[5145.82 --> 5146.80] whose name is Jesus? -[5147.18 --> 5147.90] Are you receiving -[5147.90 --> 5148.44] instruction -[5148.44 --> 5150.02] from the good shepherd? -[5151.02 --> 5151.76] Are you receiving -[5151.76 --> 5152.36] an instruction -[5152.36 --> 5153.40] that shapes you -[5153.40 --> 5154.30] into the kingdom -[5154.30 --> 5154.94] of heaven -[5154.94 --> 5157.28] or are you receiving -[5157.28 --> 5157.82] an instruction -[5157.82 --> 5158.82] that shapes you -[5158.82 --> 5159.84] into a kingdom -[5159.84 --> 5160.66] of your own making? -[5162.10 --> 5162.30] Right? -[5162.38 --> 5165.06] That's full of lesser glories -[5165.06 --> 5166.36] that will fade away. -[5169.16 --> 5170.72] Where are you being instructed? -[5172.72 --> 5173.20] Finally, -[5173.36 --> 5174.60] having deconstructed -[5174.60 --> 5175.36] false beliefs, -[5175.50 --> 5176.14] having been -[5176.14 --> 5176.68] and committed -[5176.68 --> 5177.40] to instruction -[5177.40 --> 5178.58] in the truth, -[5178.58 --> 5180.52] we are reconstructed -[5180.52 --> 5181.48] into the image -[5181.48 --> 5182.78] of Jesus Christ. -[5183.52 --> 5183.84] Instead, -[5184.50 --> 5185.44] speaking the truth -[5185.44 --> 5185.98] in love, -[5186.10 --> 5186.68] we will grow -[5186.68 --> 5187.28] to become -[5187.28 --> 5188.32] in every respect -[5188.32 --> 5189.44] the mature body -[5189.44 --> 5190.00] of him -[5190.00 --> 5191.12] who is the head -[5191.12 --> 5192.66] that is Christ. -[5193.54 --> 5194.62] This is the goal -[5194.62 --> 5196.04] of all discipleship. -[5196.58 --> 5197.58] This is the purpose -[5197.58 --> 5199.56] of works of service -[5199.56 --> 5201.90] that you are invited to, -[5202.04 --> 5202.90] that we could sign up -[5202.90 --> 5203.84] for afterward, -[5204.14 --> 5205.98] that you would grow -[5205.98 --> 5206.92] to become -[5206.92 --> 5208.52] in every respect -[5208.52 --> 5209.80] the mature body -[5209.80 --> 5210.20] of him -[5210.20 --> 5211.08] who is the head -[5211.08 --> 5212.22] that is Christ. -[5213.16 --> 5214.46] This is the rhythm -[5214.46 --> 5216.12] of discipleship, -[5216.46 --> 5216.58] right? -[5217.12 --> 5217.52] Deconstruction, -[5217.76 --> 5218.36] instruction, -[5219.14 --> 5219.64] reconstruction. -[5220.40 --> 5221.54] And then you do it again. -[5222.72 --> 5223.12] Deconstruction, -[5223.56 --> 5224.10] instruction, -[5224.74 --> 5225.18] reconstruction. -[5225.70 --> 5226.72] And then you do it again. -[5227.30 --> 5227.76] Deconstruction, -[5228.22 --> 5228.66] instruction, -[5229.22 --> 5229.62] reconstruction. -[5229.98 --> 5230.86] And then you do it again. -[5230.92 --> 5231.40] I'm going to do this -[5231.40 --> 5232.16] until you join me. -[5232.76 --> 5233.28] Deconstruction, -[5233.66 --> 5234.16] instruction, -[5234.80 --> 5235.30] reconstruction. -[5235.98 --> 5243.66] on and on it goes and then you see over the course of a lifetime -[5243.66 --> 5250.36] or maybe over the course of a year over the course of a lifetime or maybe over the course of 10 -[5250.36 --> 5262.96] there is transformation there is growth that takes place visible demonstrable real growth -[5262.96 --> 5269.38] and yes there will be a falling back there will be doubts there will be real questions there will be -[5269.38 --> 5276.88] seasons when you cannot believe let me say i know those seasons i have lived them and i have -[5276.88 --> 5282.32] walked them and i have walked through them and and more truthfully i have been carried -[5282.32 --> 5287.74] through them by the community of believers around me and i've walked others through them as well -[5287.74 --> 5298.28] but together here we can doubt our doubts together here we can ask hard questions together here we can -[5298.28 --> 5306.78] wrestle with the faith and together here we can grow amen let's pray together -[5306.78 --> 5321.86] lord jesus right here right now allow us to ask hard questions about ourselves our hearts and our -[5321.86 --> 5328.48] souls allow us to deconstruct both the the lies that we have created and the ones that are being spoken -[5328.48 --> 5335.18] around us allow us to be instructed in the truth of your gospel in the truth of your kingdom come and -[5335.18 --> 5342.26] your kingdom coming and allow us to be reconstructed to be transformed by the renewing of our minds that we -[5342.26 --> 5348.94] might go from this place growing in the grace and knowledge of our lord and savior jesus christ -[5348.94 --> 5358.74] you give the growth and so grow us in jesus name we pray amen -[5358.74 --> 5373.82] o -[5373.82 --> 5378.68] so -[5378.68 --> 5394.04] Lord, I come to you. -[5394.04 --> 5408.04] Let my heart be changed, renewed, flowing from the grace that I found in you. -[5408.68 --> 5423.68] And Lord, I come to know the weaknesses I see in me. -[5423.68 --> 5436.68] We'll be stripped away by the power of your love. -[5436.68 --> 5446.68] Hold me close, let your love surround me. -[5446.68 --> 5476.68] -[5476.68 --> 5483.68] Lord, I come to know the knowledge of your love. -[5483.68 --> 5486.68] Lord, unpale my eyes. -[5486.68 --> 5502.68] Let me see you face to face the knowledge of your love as you live in me. -[5502.68 --> 5518.68] Lord, renew my mind as your will unfolds in my life, in living every day. -[5518.68 --> 5525.68] By the power of your love. -[5525.68 --> 5537.68] Hold me close, let your love surround me. -[5537.68 --> 5549.68] Bring me near, draw me to your side. -[5549.68 --> 5559.68] And as I wait, I'll rise up like evil. -[5559.68 --> 5561.68] And I will soar with you. -[5561.68 --> 5571.68] Your spirit leads me on in the power of your love. -[5571.68 --> 5574.68] And I will soar with you. -[5574.68 --> 5581.68] Your spirit leads me on in the power of your love. -[5581.68 --> 5593.68] As you go, know that God himself goes with you. -[5593.68 --> 5599.68] And so receive his blessing for the journey of life and faith ahead. -[5599.68 --> 5601.68] Following worship, please do stick around. -[5601.68 --> 5604.68] Connect with our different ministry and mission opportunities. -[5604.68 --> 5609.68] See how you might be grown in our community together. -[5609.68 --> 5612.68] Receive the blessing of God. -[5613.68 --> 5616.68] May God go before you to lead you. -[5617.68 --> 5619.68] May God go behind you to protect you. -[5620.68 --> 5622.68] May God go beneath you to support you. -[5623.68 --> 5626.68] May God go beside you to befriend you. -[5626.68 --> 5627.68] Do not be afraid. -[5627.68 --> 5630.68] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5630.68 --> 5631.68] Do not be afraid. -[5631.68 --> 5637.68] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5637.68 --> 5638.68] Amen. -[5660.68 --> 5669.68] To the Lord. -[5669.68 --> 5670.68] Amen. -[5670.68 --> 5674.68] Come upon you, Jesus, Holy Spirit, with you 샘�ORE. -[5674.68 --> 5684.68] gemontraub죠混合 our ng-lubote along -[5684.68 --> 5687.68] Retreats Mighty rougui in the house of God Hmg are as your smile -[5687.68 --> 5696.52] and cold, and yet for me your love is still the same. -[5699.52 --> 5716.52] Lord, I bend my knee in awe and fear of thee, my hair bow down in reverence to your name. -[5717.68 --> 5736.82] I lift your name, your holy name, Jehovah God and the Lord here. -[5736.82 --> 5754.82] The great I am, the risen Lamb, my Comforter and King. -[5754.82 --> 5764.82] Lord, my heart's desire is to be filled with spirit fire. -[5764.82 --> 5772.64] My purpose is to worship you alone. -[5775.38 --> 5783.82] Open up my soul to worship and adore, -[5783.82 --> 5791.82] To be a fragrance offered to your throne. -[5791.82 --> 5811.82] I lift your name, your holy name, Jehovah God and the Lord here. -[5811.82 --> 5829.82] The great I am, the risen Lamb, my Comforter and King. -[5829.82 --> 5848.82] I lift your name, your holy name, Jehovah God and the Lord here. -[5848.82 --> 5867.82] The great I am, the risen Lamb, my Comforter and King. -[5867.82 --> 5879.60] The great I am, the risen Lamb, my loving name. -[5879.60 --> 5882.84] The great I am, the risen Lamb, my loving name, Jehovah God and King. -[5882.84 --> 5912.82] Thank you. -[5912.84 --> 5942.82] Thank you. -[5942.84 --> 5972.82] Thank you. -[5972.84 --> 6002.82] Thank you. -[6002.84 --> 6032.82] Thank you. -[6032.84 --> 6062.82] Thank you. -[6062.84 --> 6092.82] Thank you. -[6092.84 --> 6122.82] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 19 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 19 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 17658e26798ddff39dd4d471651412edf5e6341b..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 19 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,112 +0,0 @@ -• Desire to follow and obey God's way -• Chasing feelings and trusting in the Spirit -• Letting go of control and surrendering to God -• Trusting in God's word and promises -• Seeking revival and a deeper relationship with God -• Calling out for God's glory and presence -• Breaking down walls and barriers to spiritual growth -• Recognizing Jesus as Lord and Savior -• The cross and Jesus' sacrifice -• History changed by Jesus' actions -• Nails in Jesus' hands -• The power of Jesus' blood -• Gratitude for Jesus' sacrifice and love -• Hallelujah, praise to God -• Heaven's freedom and love -• Surrendering to God's love -• Recap of the BC-wide youth conference "Reactivate" -• Ministry fair after service -• Upcoming community festival on a specific date -• Needs for volunteers at the community festival, particularly for supervising attractions -• Restarted church choir looking for additional sopranos and tenors -• Grade eight youth and parents meet-and-greet social event later that day -• Council meeting on Tuesday -• Reminder to wear masks during worship -• Church community safety measures -• Intentional response to current reality -• Wearing masks during singing and at the ministry fair -• Being mindful of space and cognizant of masking -• Worship service invitation to stand and receive God's greeting -• Song about the name of Jesus Christ -• Praise and worship of God's power and glory -• The song "Yours Is the Name" is sung, referencing Revelation 4 and praising God's holiness -• The importance of worshiping God with all creation is emphasized -• The name of Jesus Christ is highlighted as a beautiful and powerful name -• Praise is given to God for creating all things by His will -• A prayer is offered to forgive sins and acknowledge God's mercy and sacrifice -• Prayer for God's mercy and forgiveness -• Discussion of human sin and the need for mercy -• Praise for God's mercy being stronger than darkness -• Haiti disaster relief efforts -• Mention of World Renewal organization providing aid to affected Haitians -• Scripture reading from Hebrews 13:16 -• Announcement of next week's offerings for budget and safe church ministry -• Faithfulness of God -• Morning worship service -• Interaction with children, discussion of jumping on stage and taking photos -• Children's participation in a staged photo opportunity on the new stage -• People participating in a jump activity on stage -• Encouragement and guidance from an adult to perform the jumps -• Completion of the jump activity by various groups of people -• Transition to Children's Worship Time and gathering the congregation -• Congregational prayer led by Elder Ken, including praise, thanksgiving, and confession of sins -• Prayers for families affected by COVID-19 -• Requests for healing and comfort for individuals suffering from illness -• Prayer for healthcare workers and community amidst hardships and turmoil -• Devastation caused by hurricanes and storms in North America -• Ongoing prayer for Haitian people following earthquake and hurricane -• Situation in Afghanistan with those unable to flee the country -• Support for congregation members experiencing isolation, loneliness, and hardship -• Prayers for upcoming election and guidance for leaders -• Celebration of church ministries and families receiving Canadian citizenship -• Prayer for Eritrean family's new initiative -• Gratitude for schools and youth sports reopening -• Growth in children's faith and knowledge of God -• Discussion of a partridge that hatches eggs it did not lay as an example of gaining riches by unjust means -• The fleeting nature of wealth and its tendency to desert those who gained it unfairly -• A glorious throne is the place of our sanctuary, and God is the hope of Israel -• Consequences for turning away from God, including being put to shame and written in the dust -• A conversation about faith and Christianity between two individuals with different perspectives -• One person's love for Christianity as a way of understanding the world and life within it -• The idea that theology can be seen as poetry, as expressed by C.S. Lewis -• A discussion on the difference between having facts and needing faith to answer questions -• Different worldviews and perspectives, including those who believe in nature or materialism, and those who are spiritual but not necessarily Christian -• Discussion of the nature of faith and trust -• Reference to Jeremiah text asking "who do you trust?" -• Analysis of Jesus' statement in Luke 8, "where is your faith?" -• Comparison of faith being either in oneself or in a higher power -• Description of two images: the bush in the wasteland (disappointment of misplaced faith) and the tree planted by water -• The concept of barrenness and emptiness is connected to the Garden of Eden story -• Turning away from God leads to a lack of prosperity, which is seeing God's presence -• Prosperity is not about external circumstances but about having a relationship with God -• A new "prosperity gospel" has emerged on social media, focusing on personal fulfillment and happiness rather than faith in God -• The Christian faith promises God's presence in the midst of hard times, not protection from difficulties -• Believing in God's sovereignty over all things is essential to understanding prosperity and suffering -• Conviction vs shame for not living up to professed faith -• Living according to one's profession of faith as a powerful force in the world -• Trusting God's sovereignty and purposes even in difficult circumstances -• The concept of God being sovereign over all things, including trials and hardships -• The comfort and joy that comes from knowing God is in control -• George Muller's example of trusting God for provision through prayer -• George Muller's wife died from rheumatic fever at age 57 -• Muller preached at her funeral that even in death, God can bring good and glory -• He believed the Bible when it said no good thing would be withheld from those who walk uprightly -• His heart was at rest knowing that if his wife was not restored to health, it was because it wasn't a good thing for him -• The key to this trust is taking God at his word and believing what he says in the Bible -• The human heart is deceitful and beyond cure, making it impossible to save oneself through one's own efforts -• The Bible emphasizes that all have sinned and fallen short of God's glory, and that true hope lies in a God who has done it for us. -• Jesus' role as the perfect sacrifice who died for our sins and was raised victorious -• Our new identity in Christ: no longer defined by sin, but as a new creation with a new life -• The presence of God's love and redemption in our lives, bringing healing and salvation -• The challenge to trust and believe in God, despite doubts and uncertainties -• The call to live out our faith in the city, wherever we are, and serve God's mission -• The God of angel armies is always present and by the speaker's side. -• God's faithfulness and promises are emphasized, particularly in times of need or fear. -• Jesus Christ's blood has covered the speaker's sin, and their soul has been rescued. -• The concept of redemption through Christ is repeatedly mentioned. -• A blessing is invoked for those embarking on a journey of life and faith. -• God's presence is invoked to go before, behind, beneath, and beside them. -• Worship and praise to God -• Declaration of God's sovereignty and kingdom coming -• Affirmation of Jesus as the Redeemer -• Expression of gratitude ("Thank you") repeated multiple times \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 19 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 19 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2cf27493b0d2eeb6fe1f892a11b99270aed58cfc..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 19 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1476 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.14] I'll sing, if you say release, I'm letting go. -[6.78 --> 10.08] If you're in here with me, I'll be here. -[10.68 --> 14.24] And when you say to jump, I'm diving in. -[14.84 --> 18.52] If you say you're still, then I will wait. -[19.08 --> 22.36] If you say to trust, I will obey. -[23.06 --> 26.48] I don't want to follow my own way. -[26.48 --> 29.42] I'm done chasing feelings. -[30.24 --> 31.54] Spirit. -[37.58 --> 39.00] Spirit. -[46.86 --> 49.62] It felt like a burden. -[51.54 --> 53.34] The л jätte I can grasp. -[55.32 --> 57.38] Read the focus. -[57.38 --> 61.66] I'm going to go further, further than I was asking. -[63.78 --> 70.44] Simply to see you, the door of God. -[71.94 --> 78.04] My life is an altar, let your fire fall. -[80.52 --> 84.00] If you say it's wrong, then I'll say no. -[84.00 --> 88.26] If you say release, I'm letting go. -[88.84 --> 92.16] If you're in it with me, I'll be there. -[92.70 --> 96.30] And when you say to jump, I'm diving in. -[96.96 --> 100.54] If you say be still, then I will wait. -[100.98 --> 104.58] If you say to trust, I will obey. -[105.14 --> 108.60] Teach me how to follow in your way. -[108.60 --> 111.42] I'm done chasing feelings. -[111.42 --> 116.26] Spirit, be me. -[116.26 --> 123.26] Spirit, be me. -[123.26 --> 132.42] Spirit, be me. -[132.42 --> 141.26] Spirit, be me. -[141.26 --> 151.68] I know hope needs more. -[151.68 --> 155.94] And your word is all I've got. -[157.02 --> 159.96] I have to believe. -[160.96 --> 164.12] You still bring water from the rock. -[165.40 --> 168.12] To satisfy my heart. -[169.40 --> 172.10] To love me as my girl. -[172.10 --> 176.22] Even when I don't remember. -[176.94 --> 180.62] You remind me of my worth. -[181.88 --> 184.94] I don't trust my ways. -[185.94 --> 189.06] I'm trading in my thoughts. -[190.06 --> 192.66] I lay down everything. -[192.66 --> 196.62] らい by car. -[198.64 --> 205.00] We're taking呢. -[205.00 --> 205.50] You still bring what I want. -[205.50 --> 214.00] And even when it don't make sense, I'm going to let the Spirit lead. -[217.50 --> 222.00] I'm going to let the Spirit lead. -[225.60 --> 230.00] I'm going to let the Spirit lead. -[230.00 --> 238.00] I'm going to love the Spirit lead. -[239.00 --> 241.00] The Spirit lead. -[242.00 --> 242.50] Essex éma! -[243.00 --> 246.28] I'm going to let the Spirit lead. -[246.78 --> 254.28] I'm going to let the Spirit lead. -[254.28 --> 284.26] Spirit break up. -[284.28 --> 314.26] Spirit break up. -[314.28 --> 316.28] Spirit break up. -[316.28 --> 324.28] Spirit break up. -[324.28 --> 328.28] Spirit break up. -[328.28 --> 330.28] Spirit break up. -[330.28 --> 332.28] Spirit break up. -[332.28 --> 336.28] Spirit break up. -[336.28 --> 338.28] Spirit break. -[338.28 --> 343.60] Father, all of heaven roars your name. -[343.92 --> 350.56] Sing louder, and this praise he roars with praise. -[350.56 --> 353.44] Can you hear it? -[353.96 --> 358.38] The sound of heaven touching us. -[359.96 --> 364.34] The sound of heaven touching us. -[364.34 --> 371.22] King Jesus, you're the name we're lifting high. -[371.22 --> 378.02] Your glory shaking up the earth and sky. -[379.14 --> 385.36] Revival, we want to see your kingdom again. -[387.42 --> 392.28] We want to see your kingdom again. -[392.28 --> 394.44] Spirit breaker. -[399.16 --> 403.50] Break our walls down. -[406.00 --> 408.16] Spirit breaker. -[408.16 --> 410.86] Fill this room tonight. -[412.96 --> 415.04] Fill this room tonight. -[415.04 --> 421.38] Fill this room tonight. -[421.38 --> 430.56] With your glory. -[430.56 --> 438.90] All glory done in you, Jesus. -[438.90 --> 453.44] Oh, our Father, all of heaven roars your name. -[453.80 --> 455.64] Sing louder. -[457.14 --> 460.28] Let this place erupt with grace. -[460.56 --> 462.86] Can you hear it? -[462.86 --> 467.20] The sound of heaven touching earth. -[469.44 --> 474.04] The sound of heaven touching earth. -[474.38 --> 480.96] King Jesus, you're the name we're lifting high. -[481.32 --> 487.72] Your glory, sinking of the earth and sky. -[487.72 --> 489.94] Revival. -[489.94 --> 490.02] Revival. -[490.02 --> 490.52] Revival. -[490.52 --> 494.94] We want to see your kingdom here. -[497.48 --> 501.20] We want to see your kingdom here. -[501.20 --> 505.20] Spirit break out. -[505.20 --> 512.42] Break our walls down. -[512.42 --> 518.26] Spirit break out. -[518.26 --> 531.44] Joe Biden. -[531.44 --> 533.48] Jesus, you're the name we're seat. -[533.48 --> 537.70] Lord, can you do the wrong life, -[537.82 --> 538.98] hear Jesus? -[538.98 --> 541.10] Lord is here, if you are heaven. -[541.10 --> 543.66] Nothing that matters, Lord. -[543.90 --> 546.78] Nothing that matters, Lord. -[547.14 --> 550.30] Be glorified, God. -[556.66 --> 559.74] Spirit, break up. -[563.70 --> 566.80] Break up, all that's come. -[571.10 --> 573.58] Spirit, break up. -[578.02 --> 580.18] Heaven, come on, girl. -[580.18 --> 584.18] Be glorified, God. -[601.10 --> 614.08] Heaven, come on, girl. -[614.08 --> 617.18] Carried the cross upon your back. -[617.18 --> 621.56] Bleeding tail, fine breath. -[621.56 --> 623.56] tears -[651.56 --> 653.88] more than enough -[653.88 --> 655.50] oh the cross -[655.50 --> 657.88] the one you've done -[657.88 --> 661.32] the power of your blood -[661.32 --> 663.68] it's more than enough -[663.68 --> 665.18] you've done -[665.18 --> 669.04] the sacrifice -[669.04 --> 671.38] changed history -[671.38 --> 674.26] the nails in your hands -[674.26 --> 676.36] the hands that saved me -[676.36 --> 678.34] the grave was -[678.34 --> 681.14] the death lost its sting -[681.14 --> 685.38] With the Lion Lord in victory -[685.38 --> 690.10] The sacrifice that changed history -[690.10 --> 695.14] The nails in your hands, the hands that saved me -[695.14 --> 700.08] And that grave was sealed, where death lost its name -[700.08 --> 704.36] With the Lion Lord in victory -[704.36 --> 711.92] Oh, the cross, what you've done -[711.92 --> 717.44] It was more than enough, it's more than enough -[717.44 --> 721.94] Oh, the cross, what you've done -[721.94 --> 726.80] The power of your blood is more than enough -[726.80 --> 730.62] Oh, the cross, what you've done -[730.62 --> 736.22] It's more than enough, it's more than enough -[736.22 --> 740.32] Oh, the cross, what you've done -[740.32 --> 747.18] The power of your blood is more than enough -[747.18 --> 754.18] We're so thankful, Jesus -[754.18 --> 758.86] We say thank you, thank you, Jesus -[758.86 --> 762.26] Come on, let's let this roar tonight -[762.26 --> 766.52] Thank you -[766.52 --> 771.02] For breaking the bread of your body -[771.02 --> 775.82] Spilling the wine of your blood -[775.82 --> 778.36] Thank you -[778.36 --> 782.24] Oh, my heart will sing forever -[782.24 --> 785.90] Thank you -[785.90 --> 789.56] For breaking the bread of your body -[789.56 --> 790.56] Oh, my heart will sing forever -[790.56 --> 791.56] Oh, my heart will sing forever -[791.56 --> 796.56] Oh, my heart will sing forever -[796.56 --> 799.56] Oh, my heart will sing forever -[799.56 --> 801.22] Oh, thank you -[801.22 --> 804.22] For breaking the bread of your body -[804.22 --> 807.88] Breaking the bread of your body -[807.88 --> 809.88] Oh, my heart will sing forever -[809.88 --> 811.88] Oh, my heart will sing forever -[811.88 --> 813.88] Oh, my heart will sing forever -[813.88 --> 814.88] Thank you -[814.88 --> 815.88] Thank you -[815.88 --> 817.88] Oh, my heart will sing forever -[817.88 --> 819.88] Oh, my heart will sing forever -[819.88 --> 821.88] It is finished -[821.88 --> 823.88] It is done -[823.88 --> 824.88] It is done -[824.88 --> 825.88] We sing hallelujah -[825.88 --> 827.88] We sing hallelujah -[827.88 --> 828.88] We sing hallelujah -[828.88 --> 831.88] It is finished -[831.88 --> 833.88] It is done -[833.88 --> 837.88] We sing hallelujah -[837.88 --> 838.88] All my days -[838.88 --> 840.88] It is finished -[840.88 --> 842.88] It is done -[842.88 --> 844.88] We sing hallelujah -[844.88 --> 846.88] Hallelujah -[846.88 --> 847.88] We sing hallelujah -[847.88 --> 848.88] We sing hallelujah -[848.88 --> 849.88] We sing hallelujah -[849.88 --> 856.50] We sing hallelujah -[856.50 --> 856.82] We sing hallelujah -[856.82 --> 861.88] All the cross -[861.88 --> 863.88] What you've done -[863.88 --> 867.88] It was more than enough -[867.88 --> 869.88] More than enough -[869.88 --> 870.88] All the cross -[870.88 --> 872.88] What you've done -[872.88 --> 886.88] what you've done -[902.88 --> 926.88] i'm coming back to the star where you found me i'm coming back to your heart -[926.88 --> 940.88] i surrender take me this is all i can bring -[940.88 --> 968.88] i'm coming back to the star our god is freedom and he will feel your heart your heart before us take me -[968.88 --> 972.88] this is all i can bring -[972.88 --> 976.88] you never stop loving us -[976.88 --> 980.88] no matter how far we run -[980.88 --> 984.88] you never gave up on us -[984.88 --> 988.88] all of heaven shout let the future begin -[988.88 --> 990.88] you -[990.88 --> 994.88] you -[994.88 --> 996.88] you -[996.88 --> 998.88] you -[998.88 --> 1000.88] you -[1000.88 --> 1002.88] you -[1002.88 --> 1006.88] you -[1006.88 --> 1008.88] you -[1008.88 --> 1010.88] you -[1010.88 --> 1012.88] you -[1012.88 --> 1014.88] you -[1014.88 --> 1016.88] you -[1016.88 --> 1032.88] you -[1032.88 --> 1034.88] you -[1034.88 --> 1036.88] you -[1036.88 --> 1043.88] Give up the glass, follow heaven, show, let the future begin -[1043.88 --> 1066.64] I feel alive, I come alive, I am alive, I am alive, I'm God's great dance floor -[1066.64 --> 1083.38] I feel alive, I come alive, I am alive, I'm God's great dance floor -[1083.38 --> 1096.56] I feel alive, come alive, and am alive, and guys break this road -[1096.56 --> 1104.16] I feel alive, and come alive, and am alive, and guys break this road -[1104.16 --> 1111.90] And guys break this road -[1113.38 --> 1138.26] We had a BC-wide youth conference called Reactivate -[1138.26 --> 1140.10] That was just a little bit of a recap -[1140.10 --> 1145.84] And I can promise you, contrary to what seeing Adrian asleep on the couch might have looked like -[1145.84 --> 1149.12] It was a lot of fun for everyone who was there -[1149.12 --> 1153.88] If you find a youth later on today, you can ask them how it was -[1153.88 --> 1156.52] You can get Pastor Kevin to give you a fuller report -[1156.52 --> 1158.76] It was an excellent weekend had by all -[1158.76 --> 1161.62] And so we were just so privileged to be part of that -[1161.62 --> 1162.78] And to share in that experience -[1162.78 --> 1165.12] And we wanted to share that with you this morning -[1165.12 --> 1169.14] For those of you who are visiting with us, or if this is your first time here -[1169.14 --> 1171.00] Or checking us out online, my name is Chris -[1171.00 --> 1172.78] I'm one of the pastors here -[1172.78 --> 1176.28] It's my privilege to lead in worship with you this morning -[1176.28 --> 1178.12] And with this team here on stage -[1178.12 --> 1181.06] Before we do that, I have just a few announcements -[1181.06 --> 1185.06] You probably saw on your way in or walked through the fog -[1185.06 --> 1186.36] In order to get into here -[1186.36 --> 1188.56] But today is the ministry fair -[1188.56 --> 1190.62] And so following our service -[1190.62 --> 1194.24] We have the different ministries and missions of our church -[1194.24 --> 1196.74] Out there to tell you the story -[1196.74 --> 1198.96] Of how God is at work in our community -[1198.96 --> 1202.76] And to our community through them -[1202.76 --> 1205.80] And so engage with different groups and tables -[1205.80 --> 1209.58] Some of them even have ways to earn your affection -[1209.58 --> 1213.86] And so you can get one of these at certain tables and the like -[1213.86 --> 1215.56] And they will share stories with you -[1215.56 --> 1218.00] I'm keeping this one right here -[1218.00 --> 1221.30] And so please, stick around after the service -[1221.30 --> 1222.56] And do that together -[1222.56 --> 1225.14] We do want to say next week -[1225.14 --> 1227.42] We are also, Lord willing -[1227.42 --> 1229.10] Because we're hoping that the break in the rain -[1229.10 --> 1230.86] That is currently forecasted will be the case -[1230.86 --> 1232.40] Doing our community festival -[1232.40 --> 1234.64] From 1pm to 4pm -[1234.64 --> 1237.04] And so that's going to happen next week -[1237.04 --> 1238.24] After service, outdoors -[1238.24 --> 1239.60] In the backspace there -[1239.60 --> 1241.52] So please come for that -[1241.52 --> 1244.08] Invite friends, family, neighbors, co-workers -[1244.08 --> 1245.10] Whatever the like -[1245.10 --> 1246.36] And join us -[1246.36 --> 1249.00] There is a couple needs yet for that -[1249.00 --> 1250.66] And these are really awesome needs -[1250.66 --> 1252.12] And so if you can help -[1252.12 --> 1255.50] By being the sort of point person supervisor -[1255.50 --> 1258.22] At either the giant slide in bouncy castle -[1258.22 --> 1259.62] Or the obstacle course -[1259.62 --> 1261.26] Or the jousting station -[1261.26 --> 1262.60] We need you -[1262.60 --> 1265.70] Jousting is a lot of fun apparently -[1265.70 --> 1267.18] If you don't mind getting hit in the head -[1267.18 --> 1269.72] But please talk to Pastor Kevin -[1269.72 --> 1270.40] After that -[1270.40 --> 1272.84] And he will help get that organized -[1272.84 --> 1274.70] Also -[1274.70 --> 1280.00] We have recently restarted our choir here -[1280.00 --> 1282.88] And they are working on a Christmas concert -[1282.88 --> 1286.52] But they are in need of some more sopranos and tenors -[1286.52 --> 1289.14] And so if you've been looking for a place to sing -[1289.14 --> 1290.84] Or trying to figure out -[1290.84 --> 1292.78] If maybe that's something you might be interested in -[1292.78 --> 1294.76] Please talk to myself -[1294.76 --> 1296.06] Or I can connect you with Mark -[1296.06 --> 1297.44] Who's leading the choir -[1297.44 --> 1299.88] As we work towards a Christmas concert -[1299.88 --> 1301.12] And so think about that -[1301.12 --> 1302.84] Maybe you can be part of that -[1302.84 --> 1304.68] They usually meet on Monday nights -[1304.68 --> 1306.42] Here to practice -[1306.42 --> 1308.64] Also -[1308.64 --> 1311.20] Later today -[1311.20 --> 1312.26] At two o'clock -[1312.26 --> 1313.52] There is a grade eight -[1313.52 --> 1315.38] Youth and parents -[1315.38 --> 1316.80] Meet and greet -[1316.80 --> 1318.18] Social event with Pastor Kevin -[1318.18 --> 1319.36] That's happening here at church -[1319.36 --> 1321.02] So you were emailed that a week ago -[1321.02 --> 1322.12] This is your reminder -[1322.12 --> 1324.64] And then on Tuesday -[1324.64 --> 1325.88] There is council -[1325.88 --> 1327.92] And so we're going to have a meeting -[1327.92 --> 1329.58] As council -[1329.58 --> 1330.16] As the board -[1330.16 --> 1331.68] We wanted to put that in front of you -[1331.68 --> 1332.32] You can remember that -[1332.32 --> 1333.40] In your prayers -[1333.40 --> 1334.70] Finally -[1334.70 --> 1337.16] I just want to take a moment -[1337.16 --> 1338.18] And remind you -[1338.18 --> 1339.82] That during our worship -[1339.82 --> 1341.24] We are asking you to -[1341.24 --> 1342.70] Wear your masks -[1342.70 --> 1344.02] Especially while we are singing -[1344.02 --> 1345.78] This past week -[1345.78 --> 1347.36] Some of you may have heard -[1347.36 --> 1348.06] But there was -[1348.06 --> 1349.34] A few cases -[1349.34 --> 1350.52] At a church community -[1350.52 --> 1352.30] That we are really close with -[1352.30 --> 1352.96] That a number of us -[1352.96 --> 1353.98] Have contacts with -[1353.98 --> 1356.28] And so we want to -[1356.28 --> 1357.64] Make sure that we remain -[1357.64 --> 1358.54] Intentional -[1358.54 --> 1360.58] In our response -[1360.58 --> 1361.58] And in the reality -[1361.58 --> 1362.78] That we find ourselves in here -[1362.78 --> 1363.14] And so -[1363.14 --> 1365.22] Especially for while we are singing -[1365.22 --> 1366.56] Please continue to wear -[1366.56 --> 1368.02] Your masks in our time -[1368.02 --> 1368.62] And then also -[1368.62 --> 1369.74] While we're in the ministry fair -[1369.74 --> 1371.18] Be mindful of space -[1371.18 --> 1372.70] And cognizant of masking -[1372.70 --> 1373.66] And the life there too -[1373.66 --> 1375.32] Thank you very much for that -[1375.32 --> 1377.06] I'm going to invite you to stand -[1377.06 --> 1378.78] And we can be called -[1378.78 --> 1379.60] Into God's presence -[1379.60 --> 1380.32] We can be welcomed -[1380.32 --> 1381.14] Into his presence -[1381.14 --> 1382.40] With his greeting -[1382.40 --> 1384.02] And so here you might -[1384.02 --> 1385.34] Hold your hands out -[1385.34 --> 1386.40] As you receive -[1386.40 --> 1386.98] The greeting -[1386.98 --> 1389.62] Of our good God -[1389.62 --> 1391.48] Grace -[1391.48 --> 1392.98] Mercy -[1392.98 --> 1394.46] And peace to you -[1394.46 --> 1395.50] From God our Father -[1395.50 --> 1396.70] From the Lord Jesus Christ -[1396.70 --> 1397.26] His Son -[1397.26 --> 1398.52] And our Savior -[1398.52 --> 1399.82] Through the presence -[1399.82 --> 1400.34] And power -[1400.34 --> 1401.76] Of the Holy Spirit -[1401.76 --> 1402.92] Everyone said -[1402.92 --> 1404.34] Amen -[1404.34 --> 1408.04] Amen -[1408.04 --> 1434.02] Thank you -[1434.34 --> 1438.78] Were the word at the beginning -[1438.78 --> 1446.60] One with God the Lord most high -[1446.60 --> 1453.22] Hidden glory in creation -[1453.22 --> 1460.04] Now revealed in you our Christ -[1460.04 --> 1463.64] What a beautiful name it is -[1463.64 --> 1467.20] What a beautiful name it is -[1467.20 --> 1473.44] The name of Jesus Christ mighty -[1473.44 --> 1478.20] What a beautiful name it is -[1478.20 --> 1481.50] Nothing compares to this -[1481.50 --> 1484.90] What a beautiful name it is -[1484.90 --> 1488.72] The name of Jesus -[1488.72 --> 1496.28] Didn't want heaven without us -[1496.28 --> 1504.28] So Jesus you were on heaven down -[1504.28 --> 1509.84] Sing what's great your love is greater -[1509.84 --> 1517.40] What a beautiful name it is -[1517.40 --> 1519.40] What a beautiful name it is -[1519.40 --> 1523.40] What a beautiful name it is -[1523.40 --> 1526.96] What a beautiful name it is -[1526.96 --> 1530.52] Jesus Christ my King -[1530.52 --> 1534.52] What a beautiful name it is -[1534.52 --> 1536.52] What a beautiful name it is -[1536.52 --> 1538.46] What a beautiful name it is -[1538.46 --> 1541.52] What a beautiful name it is -[1541.52 --> 1549.82] What a beautiful name it is -[1549.82 --> 1551.04] What a beautiful name it is -[1551.04 --> 1561.66] What a beautiful name it is -[1561.66 --> 1564.66] ит -[1578.82 --> 1581.26] doo -[1581.26 --> 1583.26] took the morning -[1583.26 --> 1585.12] built the door -[1585.12 --> 1586.92] before you -[1586.92 --> 1588.92] silenced the -[1588.92 --> 1591.36] voices of sin -[1591.36 --> 1593.36] and grace -[1593.36 --> 1595.04] the heavens -[1595.04 --> 1596.58] are roaring -[1596.58 --> 1599.26] the rays of your glory -[1600.06 --> 1601.78] for you -[1601.78 --> 1603.34] are raised -[1603.34 --> 1604.68] to life -[1604.68 --> 1606.30] again -[1606.30 --> 1608.76] you have no -[1608.76 --> 1609.80] rival -[1609.80 --> 1613.22] you have no equal -[1613.22 --> 1616.22] now and forever -[1616.94 --> 1619.22] God you pray -[1619.80 --> 1622.22] yours is the -[1622.22 --> 1623.22] evil -[1623.22 --> 1625.56] yours is the -[1625.56 --> 1626.56] calling -[1626.56 --> 1630.22] yours is the name -[1630.22 --> 1632.22] of all -[1632.22 --> 1633.22] name -[1633.22 --> 1634.88] what a powerful -[1634.88 --> 1635.78] name -[1635.78 --> 1638.28] what a powerful -[1638.28 --> 1639.10] name -[1639.10 --> 1640.24] it is -[1640.24 --> 1641.80] the name -[1641.80 --> 1643.52] of jesus -[1643.52 --> 1644.80] christ -[1644.80 --> 1646.52] my king -[1646.52 --> 1648.42] what a powerful -[1648.42 --> 1650.52] name it is -[1650.52 --> 1652.52] nothing can stand -[1652.52 --> 1653.52] against -[1653.52 --> 1655.20] what a powerful -[1655.20 --> 1656.52] name it is -[1656.52 --> 1658.62] the name -[1658.62 --> 1660.52] of jesus -[1660.52 --> 1661.66] you have -[1661.66 --> 1663.94] you have no rival -[1663.94 --> 1664.94] you have no rival -[1664.94 --> 1667.26] you have no people -[1667.26 --> 1669.94] now and forever -[1670.94 --> 1673.58] not you reign -[1673.58 --> 1677.10] yours is the kingdom -[1677.10 --> 1679.94] yours is the glory -[1679.94 --> 1683.76] yours is the name -[1683.76 --> 1691.08] Among all kings -[1691.08 --> 1697.60] Holy, holy -[1697.60 --> 1703.28] Are you, Lord God Almighty -[1703.28 --> 1708.10] Worthy is the Lamb -[1708.10 --> 1710.90] Worthy is the Lamb -[1710.90 --> 1713.42] You are holy -[1713.42 --> 1716.74] Holy -[1716.74 --> 1723.10] Are you, Lord God Almighty -[1723.10 --> 1727.98] Worthy is the Lamb -[1727.98 --> 1730.82] Worthy is the Lamb -[1730.82 --> 1733.08] You are holy -[1743.42 --> 1746.74] What a beautiful name it is -[1746.74 --> 1750.34] What a beautiful name it is -[1750.34 --> 1756.42] The name of Jesus Christ my King -[1756.42 --> 1761.02] What a beautiful name it is -[1761.02 --> 1764.30] Nothing compares to this -[1764.30 --> 1767.70] What a beautiful name it is -[1767.70 --> 1771.38] The name of Jesus -[1771.38 --> 1774.70] What a beautiful name it is -[1774.70 --> 1780.02] The name of Jesus -[1780.02 --> 1786.68] In Revelation 4 -[1786.68 --> 1791.30] We get a beautiful picture of all the earth and angels -[1791.30 --> 1794.96] Saints and saved singing praise to God -[1794.96 --> 1797.36] Worthy are you -[1797.36 --> 1797.38] Worthy are you -[1797.38 --> 1798.50] Our Lord -[1798.50 --> 1799.56] And our God -[1799.56 --> 1801.28] To receive glory -[1801.28 --> 1802.62] And honor -[1802.62 --> 1803.64] And power -[1803.64 --> 1805.96] For you created all things -[1805.96 --> 1807.70] And by your will -[1807.70 --> 1809.94] They existed -[1809.94 --> 1811.34] And were created -[1811.34 --> 1813.10] Today -[1813.10 --> 1813.12] Today -[1813.12 --> 1814.90] We join in that praise -[1814.90 --> 1817.44] As -[1817.44 --> 1818.18] And -[1818.22 --> 1819.80] styled -[1819.80 --> 1820.24] way -[1820.50 --> 1820.72] That -[1820.72 --> 1824.72] amongst all the earth and earth -[1824.72 --> 1825.32] We do -[1825.62 --> 1825.72] Hence -[1825.72 --> 1826.66] Our Lord -[1826.66 --> 1826.68] Thank you -[1826.68 --> 1827.38] Our Lord -[1827.38 --> 1828.16] ă estado -[1828.16 --> 1828.82] O -[1828.82 --> 1837.76] à -[1837.76 --> 1853.86] Worthy is the man who was slain -[1853.86 --> 1858.06] Holy, holy is he -[1858.06 --> 1864.06] Sing a new song -[1864.06 --> 1872.06] To him who sits on heaven's mercy seat -[1872.06 --> 1881.06] Worthy is the man who was slain -[1881.06 --> 1886.06] Holy, holy is he -[1886.06 --> 1891.06] Sing a new song -[1891.06 --> 1899.06] To him who sits on heaven's mercy seat -[1899.06 --> 1908.56] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty -[1908.56 --> 1913.06] Who was and is and is to come -[1913.06 --> 1922.06] With all creation I sing praise to the King of kings -[1922.06 --> 1929.06] You are my everything and I will adore you -[1929.06 --> 1949.06] Oh, the rainbows of living color -[1949.06 --> 1957.06] Blushes of lightning rolls the thunder -[1957.06 --> 1963.06] Blessing and honor, strength and glory and power be -[1963.06 --> 1969.06] To you the only wise king -[1969.06 --> 1976.06] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty -[1976.06 --> 1982.06] Who was and is and is to come -[1982.06 --> 1990.06] With all creation I sing praise to the King of kings -[1990.06 --> 1999.06] You are my everything and I will adore you -[1999.06 --> 2013.06] Filled with wonder -[2013.06 --> 2017.06] Awestruck wonder -[2017.06 --> 2023.06] At the mention of your name -[2023.06 --> 2027.06] Jesus, your name is power -[2027.06 --> 2028.06] His power -[2028.06 --> 2030.06] Breath of living water -[2030.06 --> 2031.06] Breath of living water -[2031.06 --> 2035.06] Such a marvelous mystery -[2035.06 --> 2045.06] Holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty -[2045.06 --> 2051.06] Who was and is and is and is to come -[2051.06 --> 2058.06] With all creation I sing praise to the King of kings -[2058.06 --> 2066.06] You are my everything and I will adore you -[2066.06 --> 2069.06] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty -[2069.06 --> 2073.06] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty -[2073.06 --> 2079.06] Who was and is and is and is to come -[2079.06 --> 2087.06] With all creation I sing praise to the King of kings -[2087.06 --> 2095.06] You are my everything and I will adore you -[2095.06 --> 2098.06] Holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty -[2098.06 --> 2099.06] Holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty -[2099.06 --> 2100.06] You are my everything and I will adore you -[2100.06 --> 2101.06] Holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty -[2101.06 --> 2102.06] Amen -[2102.06 --> 2104.06] This is our confession and assurance. Please join me in prayer. -[2104.06 --> 2124.06] Gracious and merciful God, we bring before you now, in a few moments of silent reflection and prayer, our sins which have been done in prayer. -[2124.06 --> 2131.06] Our sins which may be many, or can often feel too heavy to carry, or too real to hide. -[2131.06 --> 2136.06] Our sins which may not be many, or can often feel too heavy to carry, or can often feel too heavy to carry. -[2136.06 --> 2137.06] It's our sins which may not be many, or can often feel too heavy to carry. -[2137.06 --> 2144.06] Please Lord, forgive us of our sins. -[2144.06 --> 2165.18] Please, Lord, forgive us of our sins, -[2165.76 --> 2168.58] even the sins that our lips find difficult to mean. -[2169.32 --> 2171.68] We know that through your sacrifice for us, -[2171.68 --> 2174.84] we are set free from a past we feel helpless to change. -[2175.86 --> 2178.52] Lord, we thank you that through your mercy, -[2178.72 --> 2182.04] you opened for us a future filled by your spirit -[2182.04 --> 2184.26] in which we are forever changed. -[2185.02 --> 2187.80] Grant us your grace that we may grow more and more -[2187.80 --> 2189.34] in your likeness and image. -[2190.04 --> 2191.92] We pray this in your precious name alone. -[2192.68 --> 2192.96] Amen. -[2201.68 --> 2202.68] Amen. -[2202.68 --> 2203.68] Amen. -[2203.68 --> 2212.90] Mercy is long -[2212.90 --> 2219.30] Stronger darkness to everyborn -[2219.30 --> 2222.80] Since they had he had mercy -[2222.80 --> 2230.08] What love could remember -[2230.08 --> 2232.30] No wrongs we have done -[2232.30 --> 2235.02] Omniscient, oh no weak -[2235.02 --> 2237.04] He counts not their sum -[2237.04 --> 2239.42] No need to a seed -[2239.42 --> 2242.56] With a bottom or shore -[2242.56 --> 2245.56] The sins they are many -[2245.56 --> 2247.68] His mercy is more -[2247.68 --> 2249.80] Praise the Lord -[2249.80 --> 2254.62] His mercy is more -[2254.62 --> 2262.28] Stronger darkness to everyborn -[2262.28 --> 2264.86] For sins they are many -[2264.86 --> 2267.02] His mercy is more -[2267.02 --> 2273.00] What patience would wait -[2273.00 --> 2275.38] As we constantly roam -[2275.38 --> 2278.00] What father so tender -[2278.00 --> 2280.22] Is calling us home -[2280.22 --> 2282.68] He welcomes the weakest -[2282.68 --> 2285.26] The vilest, the vilest, the bold -[2285.26 --> 2288.74] Our sins they are many -[2288.74 --> 2290.86] His mercy is more -[2290.86 --> 2292.86] Praise the Lord -[2292.86 --> 2297.58] His mercy is more -[2297.58 --> 2305.26] Stronger darkness to everyborn -[2305.26 --> 2307.84] Our sins they are many -[2307.84 --> 2308.84] His mercy is more -[2308.84 --> 2310.52] His mercy is more -[2310.52 --> 2312.66] His mercy is more -[2312.66 --> 2314.66] For riches of kindness -[2314.66 --> 2314.98] For riches of kindness -[2314.98 --> 2317.24] He banished on us -[2317.24 --> 2319.78] His blood was the payment -[2319.78 --> 2322.08] His life was the cost -[2322.08 --> 2324.38] He stood with a debt -[2324.38 --> 2327.04] He could never afford -[2327.04 --> 2330.46] Our sins they are many -[2330.46 --> 2332.20] His mercy is more -[2332.20 --> 2332.62] His mercy is more -[2332.62 --> 2334.34] His mercy is more -[2334.34 --> 2340.62] His mercy is more -[2340.62 --> 2345.10] Stronger than darkness -[2345.10 --> 2347.16] To every born -[2347.16 --> 2349.70] For sins they are many -[2349.70 --> 2351.76] His mercy is more -[2351.76 --> 2354.20] Praise the Lord -[2354.20 --> 2359.86] His mercy is more -[2359.86 --> 2364.04] Stronger than darkness -[2364.04 --> 2366.36] To every born -[2366.36 --> 2368.88] For sins they are many -[2368.88 --> 2371.20] His mercy is more -[2371.20 --> 2373.74] For sins they are many -[2373.74 --> 2376.94] His mercy is more -[2376.94 --> 2379.98] I invite you to be seated -[2394.04 --> 2412.14] Our offerings this morning are for budget and for world renewed Haiti disaster relief -[2412.14 --> 2434.84] After months of civil unrest violence and recent assassination of President Mosey suffering continues in Haiti as people sort through the rubble of a massive 7.2 magnitude earthquake that hit Saturday August the 14th at 8.29 a.m. local time. -[2434.84 --> 2452.16] The epicenter of the earthquake was located in Nipi's department near the city of Lekai 150 kilometers southwest of Port-au-Prince for many Haitians this earthquake was reminiscent of the deadly earthquake that struck Haiti in 2010 which killed anywhere between 250,000 to 300,000 people. -[2452.16 --> 2467.48] As for this year's earthquake recent numbers indicated at least 2200 people are dead and at least 12,200 people are injured and an unknown number of people are still missing. -[2467.48 --> 2474.48] In the south department of Haiti where La Quay is situated more than 50,000 homes have been completely destroyed and 77,000 damaged. -[2474.48 --> 2481.48] Thousands of people are left homeless and many are left homeless and many are living out in the open without any protection. -[2481.48 --> 2489.48] The count of those dead in the area is in the area of the city of Lekai 150,000 people are still missing. -[2489.48 --> 2495.48] Thousands of people are left homeless and many are living out in the open without any protection. -[2495.48 --> 2508.48] The count of those dead injured and displaced is expected to continue to climb. -[2508.48 --> 2521.48] Further complications, relief and rescue efforts, tropical depression grace drenched the earthquake area with up to 10 inches of rainfall. -[2521.48 --> 2538.48] World Renewal has been in Haiti since 1976 and they welcome donations to assist affected Haitians by building temporary shelter and providing kits that contain household and personal care items. -[2538.48 --> 2546.48] Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. -[2546.48 --> 2549.48] Hebrews 13 verse 16. -[2549.48 --> 2553.48] Next week offerings are budget and safe church ministry. -[2553.48 --> 2557.48] Beij pinkie su Tiago -[2557.48 --> 2559.48] Lynese -[2559.48 --> 2562.48] Rosetta -[2562.48 --> 2563.48] Rosetta -[2563.48 --> 2566.48] Rosetta -[2566.48 --> 2568.42] Rosetta -[2569.48 --> 2570.48] Rosetta -[2570.48 --> 2580.48] Rosetta -[2580.48 --> 2581.48] Rosetta -[2581.48 --> 2598.50] Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father. -[2598.50 --> 2606.58] There is no shadow of journey with thee. -[2606.58 --> 2614.38] Thou changest not, thy compassion's faith will not. -[2614.92 --> 2621.68] As thou hast been, come forever in me. -[2621.68 --> 2629.94] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[2629.94 --> 2637.16] Morning by morning new blessings I see. -[2637.16 --> 2644.66] All I have needed, thy hand hath provided. -[2645.86 --> 2652.42] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[2652.42 --> 2662.64] Summer and winter and springtime and harvest. -[2662.64 --> 2670.18] Seven and stars in their forces are loved. -[2671.04 --> 2677.76] Joined with all nature in pleniful goodness. -[2677.76 --> 2685.40] To thy great faithfulness, mercy and love. -[2686.66 --> 2693.94] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[2693.94 --> 2701.36] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[2701.36 --> 2709.08] All I have needed, thy hand hath provided. -[2709.08 --> 2716.58] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[2716.58 --> 2727.64] Lord, and for sin and a peace that am current. -[2727.64 --> 2735.86] Thy own dear presence to cheer unto thine. -[2736.66 --> 2743.46] Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow. -[2743.46 --> 2751.36] Blessings all mine, blessings all mine with ten thousand beside. -[2751.36 --> 2760.10] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[2760.10 --> 2767.36] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[2767.36 --> 2775.26] All I have needed, thy hand hath provided. -[2775.26 --> 2784.94] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[2784.94 --> 2795.16] Good morning everyone. -[2795.16 --> 2795.56] Whoa. -[2795.56 --> 2798.74] If I could have all the kids up front here. -[2799.30 --> 2799.84] What are we doing? -[2800.12 --> 2802.36] Little kids up to grade four. -[2803.12 --> 2805.64] Unless some of you older kids want to come up, we'd be happy to have you. -[2806.92 --> 2807.74] Come on up. -[2807.74 --> 2807.76] Come on up. -[2807.76 --> 2807.80] Come on up. -[2807.80 --> 2809.80] Come on up. -[2809.80 --> 2811.80] Come on up. -[2811.80 --> 2814.92] Come on up. -[2814.94 --> 2816.84] How's everybody doing this morning? -[2816.84 --> 2816.94] Good? -[2816.94 --> 2817.94] Good? -[2817.94 --> 2818.94] Good? -[2818.94 --> 2822.94] You guys all liked my special shirt last time I was up here so I decided to wear it again -[2822.94 --> 2823.94] this morning. -[2823.94 --> 2824.94] So it's my summer shirt. -[2824.94 --> 2825.94] You like it? -[2825.94 --> 2826.94] All right. -[2826.94 --> 2827.94] Right on. -[2827.94 --> 2831.94] You're in grade three? -[2831.94 --> 2832.94] That's awesome. -[2832.94 --> 2834.94] School started, eh? -[2834.94 --> 2835.94] Good. -[2835.94 --> 2843.94] So I want to do something kind of fun with you guys this morning before we go to children's worship time. -[2843.94 --> 2846.94] You guys see this fancy new stage we got up front here? -[2846.94 --> 2847.94] Yeah. -[2847.94 --> 2849.94] Kind of cool looking, eh? -[2849.94 --> 2852.94] When I was sitting in church last Sunday, I was looking at that stage and I'm thinking, -[2852.94 --> 2853.94] you know what? -[2853.94 --> 2854.94] If I was a kid, you know what I'd want to do? -[2854.94 --> 2856.94] I want to jump off that thing. -[2856.94 --> 2857.94] What do you think? -[2857.94 --> 2859.94] Would you want to jump off that thing? -[2859.94 --> 2860.94] Yeah. -[2860.94 --> 2861.94] Is it too high? -[2861.94 --> 2862.94] No. -[2862.94 --> 2869.94] So this summer we, I was out with some friends and we were at some beach and we were jumping -[2869.94 --> 2872.94] off stuff, old people. -[2872.94 --> 2873.94] And we took some pictures. -[2873.94 --> 2876.94] So I'm just wondering if you guys have ever done one of these pictures in the past. -[2876.94 --> 2878.94] William's going to put it up on the screen. -[2878.94 --> 2879.94] So this is kind of the picture. -[2879.94 --> 2880.94] You see that picture right there? -[2880.94 --> 2884.94] Has anybody ever done one of those still photo pictures off a log or off something like -[2884.94 --> 2885.94] that? -[2885.94 --> 2886.94] Jumping in the air? -[2886.94 --> 2887.94] What do you think? -[2887.94 --> 2890.94] Should we do that off the stage here this morning? -[2890.94 --> 2891.94] Who's up for that? -[2891.94 --> 2892.94] Yeah? -[2892.94 --> 2893.94] We're doing it? -[2893.94 --> 2894.94] Let's do it. -[2894.94 --> 2895.94] Okay. -[2895.94 --> 2897.94] I think we got too many kids here so we're going to do it in two groups. -[2897.94 --> 2898.94] Okay? -[2898.94 --> 2900.94] I need, let's get a bunch of kids up on the stage there. -[2900.94 --> 2905.94] Up on the front here, right up here. -[2905.94 --> 2906.94] Right up here like this. -[2906.94 --> 2907.94] We're going to do it in two groups. -[2907.94 --> 2910.94] So half you guys can go up there first and I'm going to take a video or maybe I can get -[2910.94 --> 2912.94] Jared here to take a video for me. -[2912.94 --> 2915.94] Jared's my fancy assistant here. -[2915.94 --> 2916.94] Okay. -[2916.94 --> 2921.94] Let's line everybody up on the front here. -[2921.94 --> 2922.94] Can you move all the way over? -[2922.94 --> 2924.94] All the way over, over, over, over. -[2924.94 --> 2926.94] Good, good, good, good. -[2926.94 --> 2927.94] Okay. -[2927.94 --> 2928.94] You guys have to wait. -[2928.94 --> 2929.94] You can come up front here. -[2929.94 --> 2931.94] Haley, you can come up front. -[2931.94 --> 2932.94] All right. -[2932.94 --> 2937.94] You guys got to listen to me real close because I'm on the count of three you're going to jump. -[2937.94 --> 2939.94] So I say one, two, three, then you're all going to jump. -[2939.94 --> 2942.94] Did you see that picture up there where guys were doing funny stuff in the air? -[2942.94 --> 2943.94] Can you do that? -[2943.94 --> 2946.94] Or you're just going to jump? -[2946.94 --> 2948.94] Who's the craziest one up here? -[2948.94 --> 2949.94] Cole? -[2949.94 --> 2950.94] All right. -[2950.94 --> 2951.94] All right. -[2951.94 --> 2952.94] On the count of three. -[2952.94 --> 2954.94] So at three you're going to jump. -[2954.94 --> 2955.94] Ready? -[2955.94 --> 2957.94] One, two, three, go. -[2957.94 --> 2958.94] Okay. -[2958.94 --> 2959.94] You guys got to do that again. -[2959.94 --> 2960.94] Get back up there. -[2960.94 --> 2961.94] Go back up there. -[2961.94 --> 2962.94] Come on. -[2962.94 --> 2963.94] Go back up there. -[2963.94 --> 2964.94] Go back up there. -[2964.94 --> 2965.94] Go back up there. -[2965.94 --> 2966.94] It's got to be something like this. -[2966.94 --> 2967.94] I got to do it for you guys. -[2967.94 --> 2968.94] Got to go like this. -[2968.94 --> 2971.94] Can you do that? -[2971.94 --> 2972.94] Can you do that? -[2972.94 --> 2973.94] All right. -[2973.94 --> 2975.94] On the count of three. -[2975.94 --> 2977.94] One, two, three, go. -[2977.94 --> 2978.94] Not bad. -[2978.94 --> 2979.94] Not bad. -[2979.94 --> 2980.94] Okay. -[2980.94 --> 2981.94] Next group up. -[2981.94 --> 2982.94] You guys can move over to the side there. -[2982.94 --> 2983.94] Next group. -[2983.94 --> 2984.94] All right. -[2984.94 --> 2985.94] That's good. -[2985.94 --> 2986.94] We'll do this in three. -[2986.94 --> 2987.94] Okay. -[2987.94 --> 2988.94] You low bird kids. -[2988.94 --> 2989.94] Come on. -[2989.94 --> 2990.94] Give me something here. -[2990.94 --> 2991.94] Okay. -[2991.94 --> 2992.94] Something crazy. -[2992.94 --> 2993.94] On the count of three. -[2993.94 --> 2996.94] One, two, three. -[2996.94 --> 2998.94] I'm not a great coordinator here. -[2998.94 --> 2999.94] I can see. -[2999.94 --> 3000.94] Okay. -[3000.94 --> 3001.94] Everybody else move over. -[3001.94 --> 3002.94] Next group. -[3002.94 --> 3003.94] Last group. -[3003.94 --> 3004.94] Okay. -[3004.94 --> 3005.94] Zoe? -[3005.94 --> 3006.94] Okay. -[3006.94 --> 3007.94] Zoe? -[3007.94 --> 3008.94] Okay. -[3008.94 --> 3009.94] Okay. -[3009.94 --> 3010.94] Okay. -[3010.94 --> 3011.94] Okay. -[3011.94 --> 3014.94] Zoe, you coming over? -[3014.94 --> 3015.94] Come on. -[3015.94 --> 3016.94] You don't want to? -[3016.94 --> 3017.94] Okay. -[3017.94 --> 3020.94] You guys are the last ones. -[3020.94 --> 3022.94] Olivia, something crazy in the air. -[3022.94 --> 3023.94] You doing it? -[3023.94 --> 3024.94] All right. -[3024.94 --> 3025.94] On the count of three. -[3025.94 --> 3028.94] One, two, three, go. -[3028.94 --> 3029.94] Yes. -[3029.94 --> 3030.94] All right. -[3030.94 --> 3031.94] Okay. -[3031.94 --> 3034.94] Let's, everybody come. -[3034.94 --> 3036.94] We're going to do the blessing now and then we're going to head off to Children's -[3036.94 --> 3037.94] Worship Time. -[3037.94 --> 3038.94] Thanks for helping me with that. -[3038.94 --> 3039.94] That was awesome. -[3039.94 --> 3040.94] So let's face the congregation. -[3040.94 --> 3044.94] If everybody could stand up please for us. -[3044.94 --> 3047.94] You guys all know how to do this? -[3047.94 --> 3053.94] Remember Pastor Chris taught us last week you have to like do this kind of action. -[3053.94 --> 3054.94] Remember? -[3054.94 --> 3055.94] All right. -[3055.94 --> 3056.94] Ready? -[3056.94 --> 3057.94] The Lord be with you. -[3057.94 --> 3060.94] All right. -[3060.94 --> 3062.94] Let's go to Children's Worship Time. -[3062.94 --> 3064.36] Thank you. -[3070.94 --> 3071.94] Good morning everybody. -[3071.94 --> 3072.94] My name's Ken. -[3072.94 --> 3073.94] I'm an elder here. -[3073.94 --> 3083.94] I have terrible name tag management so I don't have it. -[3083.94 --> 3084.94] And I would like to lead you in congregational prayer. -[3084.94 --> 3085.94] So please pray with me. -[3085.94 --> 3098.94] Our Father in heaven, holy is your great name. -[3098.94 --> 3099.94] You are worthy of all praise and thanks. -[3099.94 --> 3103.94] And so we gather here today to thank you, to praise you, to worship your name and to gather -[3103.94 --> 3105.94] as your people to learn more about you. -[3105.94 --> 3112.94] Father, it is only because of your great gift of Jesus Christ that we can gather here and -[3112.94 --> 3114.94] know that you have taken our sins away. -[3114.94 --> 3137.94] Father, we continue to sin against you daily and we acknowledge these sins before you and pray that through your spirit we may truly repent of these sins and work to live a life of thankfulness before you. -[3137.94 --> 3143.94] Father, this time of prayer is a time to bring before you the needs, hurts, and lives of our congregation. -[3143.94 --> 3152.94] There are many times when the church bulletin comes out and I hope that the list of prayer requests is short or perhaps not there at all. -[3152.94 --> 3157.94] As if the only thing we had to do was thank you because only good things are happening. -[3157.94 --> 3160.94] But we know, however, that is not the case. -[3160.94 --> 3164.94] That sin and Satan still spread hurt and pain throughout our lives. -[3164.94 --> 3171.94] And so we want to and need to bring these things before you as you are the only source of true peace and comfort. -[3171.94 --> 3178.94] So, Father, we continue to grieve with the Spa family as Deb Spa passed away from COVID recently. -[3178.94 --> 3185.94] Peter and Deb and their family were former members of this church and moved to Grand Fork some years ago. -[3185.94 --> 3192.94] Our hearts break for the family and friends and we pray that you will be near to them and surround them with your comfort and grace. -[3192.94 --> 3200.94] We also pray for Sarah's brother Patrick who is in the interior in hospital right now also suffering from COVID. -[3200.94 --> 3212.94] Father, you are the only one who determines the outcomes of these things and Father, therefore, we pray that you will be with him and grant him healing. -[3212.94 --> 3219.94] We pray for our healthcare community and workers as they are in the midst of hardships and the turmoils that are affecting their daily lives. -[3219.94 --> 3225.94] And Father, the stresses of these jobs are only growing and so we pray to be near them during this time. -[3225.94 --> 3235.94] We pray for those impacted by the various hurricanes and storms that have wreaked havoc in many communities in North America, claiming lives, homes and communities. -[3235.94 --> 3244.94] We pray be with world renewed disaster response volunteers who are working hard to help in the cleanup, rebuilding and recovery of these communities. -[3244.94 --> 3251.94] Continue to be with the Haitian people who are suffering greatly following the earthquake and that claimed many lives. -[3251.94 --> 3255.94] And then the hurricane that came through on the heels of the earthquake. -[3255.94 --> 3261.94] Father, give us a heart to contribute in any way we can to help those people rebuild their lives. -[3261.94 --> 3266.94] We remember those suffering in Afghanistan and those who are unable to flee the country. -[3266.94 --> 3269.94] We pray that there will be a way for them to escape. -[3269.94 --> 3279.94] We pray for safety and provision for them in these extremely volatile and uncertain times. -[3279.94 --> 3286.94] Father, we pray for your nearness to all those in our congregation who are isolated, shut in, -[3286.94 --> 3292.94] who may be experiencing loneliness, depression and anxiety, illness or other daily hardships. -[3292.94 --> 3299.94] We pray for strength and encouragement in their difficulties and protection over them and their caregivers. -[3299.94 --> 3305.94] May we also consider how we can reach out and show Christ's love to them. -[3305.94 --> 3319.94] We pray for all of us that we will continue to have the patience to practice measures required to be safe and considerate of those with whom we are in contact for the benefit and for the safety of all. -[3319.94 --> 3324.94] Father, we pray for this country as we will be having an election tomorrow. -[3324.94 --> 3330.94] Father, it is difficult to vote when most of the options do not stand for you and your ways. -[3330.94 --> 3334.94] Father, guide our hearts and our pens as we take to the polls. -[3334.94 --> 3339.94] And may the new government look to you for guidance in their leadership of this country. -[3339.94 --> 3343.94] Father, we also have things to celebrate and be thankful for. -[3343.94 --> 3346.94] We give thanks today for the many ministries that are active in this church. -[3346.94 --> 3353.94] May we be a blessing and show the love of Christ not only to those in our church, but to the greater community around us. -[3353.94 --> 3363.94] We celebrate with the Murad and Ajeel families their arrival in Canada on September 16, 2019 and September 19, 2017 respectively. -[3363.94 --> 3367.94] The Ajeels are in the process of acquiring their Canadian citizenship. -[3367.94 --> 3374.94] We are thankful to you for seeing them thrive in this new country, in their new country. -[3374.94 --> 3380.94] May you continue to bless them and us in our relationship with each, with these families. -[3380.94 --> 3389.94] Father, we also pray for a new initiative that the committee is working on with an Eritrean family, a mother and her two children. -[3389.94 --> 3394.94] Father, we pray that you will guide this work and help the committee see this through to a positive outcome. -[3394.94 --> 3401.94] We are thankful that schools and youth sport are open and our children can experience these gifts again. -[3401.94 --> 3409.94] We pray that you will continue to keep these doors open and strengthen our children through education, sport, social gatherings and our church community. -[3409.94 --> 3414.94] Father, may we as a church grow our children's faith and their knowledge of you. -[3414.94 --> 3420.94] Father, as we continue in our worship, will you be with us this day? -[3420.94 --> 3424.94] Will you strengthen your servant Pastor Chris as he brings us your word? -[3424.94 --> 3429.94] Help him to speak clearly and boldly the words that you want us to hear. -[3429.94 --> 3433.94] We pray all these things in Jesus' name. Amen. -[3444.94 --> 3459.94] So, as we pray, we are going to spend some time together in God's word. -[3459.94 --> 3466.94] And so if you've got a Bible, I'm going to encourage you to grab that, open it up or turn it on, whatever the case may be. -[3466.94 --> 3470.94] And we're going to spend some time in Jeremiah 17. -[3470.94 --> 3473.94] The text that we read will be on the screen. -[3473.94 --> 3480.94] But of course, I always encourage you to keep that in front of you as we're going to go back and forth in this text together. -[3480.94 --> 3484.94] So you'll have that there. -[3484.94 --> 3488.94] With God's word open, let's read together. -[3488.94 --> 3493.94] Jeremiah 17, I'm going to begin at verse 5. -[3493.94 --> 3496.94] This is what the Lord says. -[3496.94 --> 3505.94] Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh, and whose heart turns away from the Lord. -[3505.94 --> 3508.94] That person will be like a bush in the wasteland. -[3508.94 --> 3512.94] They will not see prosperity when it comes. -[3512.94 --> 3519.94] They will dwell in the parched places of the desert, in a salt land where no one lives. -[3519.94 --> 3524.94] But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. -[3524.94 --> 3531.94] They will be like a tree planted by water that sends out its roots by the stream. -[3531.94 --> 3533.94] It does not fear when heat comes. -[3533.94 --> 3536.94] Its leaves are always green. -[3536.94 --> 3542.94] It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit. -[3542.94 --> 3549.94] The heart, deceitful above all things and beyond cure. -[3549.94 --> 3553.94] Who can understand it? -[3553.94 --> 3567.94] I, the Lord, search the heart and examine the mind to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve. -[3567.94 --> 3574.94] Like a partridge that hatches eggs it did not lay, are those who gain riches by unjust means. -[3574.94 --> 3578.94] When their lives are half gone, their riches desert them. -[3578.94 --> 3583.94] And in the end, they will prove to be fools. -[3583.94 --> 3590.94] A glorious throne, exalted from the beginning, is the place of our sanctuary. -[3590.94 --> 3594.94] Lord, you are the hope of Israel. -[3594.94 --> 3596.94] All who forsake you will be put to shame. -[3596.94 --> 3604.94] Those who turn away from you will be written in the dust, because they have forsaken the Lord, the spring of living water. -[3604.94 --> 3614.94] They keep saying to me, -[3614.94 --> 3616.94] They keep saying to me, -[3616.94 --> 3618.94] Where is the word of the Lord? -[3618.94 --> 3621.94] Let it now be fulfilled. -[3621.94 --> 3623.94] I have not run away from being your shepherd. -[3623.94 --> 3626.94] You know I have not desired the day of despair. -[3626.94 --> 3631.94] What passes my lips is open before you. -[3631.94 --> 3634.94] Do not be a terror to me. -[3634.94 --> 3638.94] You are my refuge in the day of disaster. -[3638.94 --> 3642.94] That my persecutors be put to shame, but keep me from shame. -[3642.94 --> 3645.94] Let them be terrified, but keep me from terror. -[3645.94 --> 3648.94] Bring on the day of disaster. -[3648.94 --> 3652.94] Destroy them with double destruction. -[3652.94 --> 3655.94] This is the word of the Lord. -[3655.94 --> 3667.94] I was in a conversation with someone, and he was a relatively young man. -[3667.94 --> 3672.94] He was the new boyfriend of one of the young adults from our church. -[3672.94 --> 3677.94] And we started together talking about faith and Christianity. -[3677.94 --> 3686.94] And at some point in our conversation, I mentioned to him that the reason I love Christianity is because it helps me to see the world. -[3686.94 --> 3692.94] It helps me make sense of the world and to understand my life in the midst of it. -[3692.94 --> 3707.94] And in that conversation, I wanted to make clear that this was really more than a God of the gaps kind of worldview or argument, but it really it's about making sense of the whole world and life lived within it. -[3707.94 --> 3721.94] If you have received an email from me, from my personal email, not from my church work email, at the very bottom of my email page, there's a quote from C.S. Lewis that says, -[3721.94 --> 3725.94] I believe in Christianity as I believe the sun has risen. -[3725.94 --> 3732.94] Not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else. -[3732.94 --> 3739.94] And that's what we're talking about here when we talk about how I love Christianity and our faith. -[3739.94 --> 3744.94] Now that quote from Lewis comes in an essay that he wrote called Is Theology Poetry? -[3744.94 --> 3745.94] It is a beautiful essay. -[3745.94 --> 3746.94] I encourage you to check it out. -[3746.94 --> 3749.94] I'll share it with you afterwards if you like. -[3749.94 --> 3757.94] But Lewis's conclusion there at the end is that theology is poetry because I believe it to be so. -[3757.94 --> 3758.94] Right? -[3758.94 --> 3763.94] It's a beautiful essay that he's guided me and so I see a beauty in it. -[3763.94 --> 3768.94] And the gentleman that I was talking with, he looked at me and he said, that's good for you. -[3768.94 --> 3770.94] But I don't have faith. -[3770.94 --> 3772.94] I have facts. -[3772.94 --> 3776.94] And I don't need faith for my unanswered questions. -[3776.94 --> 3779.94] I have a scientific method for finding answers. -[3779.94 --> 3784.94] Because if I don't know something, I know that it can be learned. -[3784.94 --> 3791.94] Now, for right now, I'm not going to say too much about that line that says, if I don't know something, I know it can be learned. -[3791.94 --> 3797.94] Because in reality, it would be more correct to say, if I don't know something, I believe it can be learned. -[3797.94 --> 3802.94] Which is a different category and a different conversation and we can get into that later. -[3802.94 --> 3808.94] But it's not just that kind of conversation or that kind of world view. -[3808.94 --> 3814.94] Because I've also had people say to me things like, I don't believe in the Christian faith. -[3814.94 --> 3816.94] I just believe in nature. -[3816.94 --> 3818.94] I believe in the material world. -[3818.94 --> 3821.94] The world is and eventually it won't be. -[3821.94 --> 3822.94] Right? -[3822.94 --> 3823.94] Right? -[3823.94 --> 3829.94] Maybe rather bleakly, they will say something like, I am and eventually I won't be. -[3829.94 --> 3832.94] That's what I think will happen. -[3832.94 --> 3838.94] Now, again, I want to say, that's what you trust will happen. -[3838.94 --> 3839.94] Right? -[3839.94 --> 3847.94] And there's also an area where we can dig into the presumption that says, if there's something to know in the world, it's something that then should be known by all of us. -[3847.94 --> 3860.94] Also, in this sort of category of world and life view, I've had conversations with people, and this last one is becoming more and more common in the world today. -[3860.94 --> 3866.94] With people who say, something like, I don't need anything like the Christian faith. -[3866.94 --> 3867.94] Right? -[3867.94 --> 3868.94] I'm spiritual. -[3868.94 --> 3869.94] Right? -[3869.94 --> 3870.94] I'm a Pisces. -[3870.94 --> 3872.94] So, of course, I believe this is true. -[3872.94 --> 3873.94] What they say. -[3873.94 --> 3874.94] Right? -[3874.94 --> 3876.94] This practice of astrology. -[3876.94 --> 3877.94] Right? -[3877.94 --> 3886.94] People believe in ghosts and in spirits and even in the ability to access and use some sort of immaterial power or force, whatever it's called. -[3886.94 --> 3891.94] But then they will then say, there's nothing like an all-powerful transcendent God above it. -[3891.94 --> 3892.94] Right? -[3892.94 --> 3895.94] What is, is, and there isn't some other. -[3895.94 --> 3896.94] Right? -[3896.94 --> 3901.94] The spirits that exist in the world in this frame are neutral. -[3901.94 --> 3903.94] What matters is how you use them. -[3903.94 --> 3908.94] What matters is what you put out into the universe and try to manifest for yourself. -[3908.94 --> 3910.94] Does this sound familiar? -[3910.94 --> 3911.94] Right? -[3911.94 --> 3916.94] If you are on Instagram or other social media, you hear this kind of gospel all the time. -[3916.94 --> 3926.94] The point is, right, there are many ways in which all sorts of people exercise all sorts of trust. -[3926.94 --> 3927.94] Right? -[3927.94 --> 3931.94] Many ways in which people know and people believe. -[3931.94 --> 3940.94] The text that we read in Jeremiah asks the question, who do you trust? -[3940.94 --> 3943.94] Trust here meaning, who do you have confidence in? -[3943.94 --> 3944.94] Who do you believe? -[3944.94 --> 3949.94] Or what or whom will you put your faith in? -[3949.94 --> 3955.94] Because the truth of the matter is that everybody has faith. -[3956.94 --> 3961.94] Everybody trusts in something outside of them, apart from them, or in them. -[3961.94 --> 3962.94] Right? -[3962.94 --> 3974.94] Everybody has something or someone or some idea or some sense or some belief or some faith out of which we operate in the world. -[3974.94 --> 3977.94] It's impossible to be human otherwise. -[3977.94 --> 3989.94] Now, we may not use that language because of a particular aversion or other, but the reality is we all operate out of some sort of deeply held assumptions about how the world works. -[3989.94 --> 3991.94] Everyone has some sort of faith. -[3991.94 --> 3995.94] This text wants to ask, where is yours? -[3995.94 --> 4001.94] As we come into this, I'm reminded of the story of Jesus from the New Testament, Luke 8. -[4001.94 --> 4002.94] Right? -[4002.94 --> 4005.94] They're in, Jesus and his disciples get in a boat together. -[4005.94 --> 4012.94] The wind and the waves rise up and it looks like the boat is going to be overturned, like it's going to capsize. -[4012.94 --> 4013.94] The disciples are terrified. -[4013.94 --> 4019.94] They're afraid that they're going to drown and they cry out to Jesus, Lord, don't you care that we're going to die? -[4019.94 --> 4022.94] Jesus gets up. -[4022.94 --> 4026.94] He rebukes the wind and the waves and immediately they calm down. -[4026.94 --> 4034.94] He turns to his disciples and he says, where is your faith? -[4034.94 --> 4035.94] Now, notice that, right? -[4035.94 --> 4038.94] Jesus says, where is your faith? -[4038.94 --> 4042.94] He doesn't say, don't you have faith? -[4042.94 --> 4043.94] He says, but where is it? -[4043.94 --> 4044.94] Right? -[4044.94 --> 4046.94] In Jesus' statement there, faith is the given. -[4046.94 --> 4049.94] It's presumed that people are operating out of it. -[4049.94 --> 4050.94] Right? -[4050.94 --> 4053.94] Faith in the people around you or faith in the disciples themselves. -[4053.94 --> 4056.94] Faith in the strength of the storm and the natural order of things. -[4056.94 --> 4057.94] Where is your faith? -[4057.94 --> 4058.94] Jesus says. -[4058.94 --> 4062.94] Either it's in me or it's not. -[4062.94 --> 4065.94] Where is your faith? -[4065.94 --> 4071.94] In the boat story that Jesus, that we get in Luke 8, the question is where is your faith? -[4071.94 --> 4072.94] Right? -[4072.94 --> 4075.94] Is it in the Lord, in the one who can calm the wind and the waves? -[4075.94 --> 4081.94] Or if he doesn't calm the wind and the waves, the one who has a good reason for you to be in the storm in the first place. -[4081.94 --> 4085.94] Is your faith in him or is it somewhere else? -[4085.94 --> 4091.94] Or as Jeremiah asked it, is your faith or your trust in man? -[4091.94 --> 4092.94] Right? -[4092.94 --> 4098.94] In people, in yourself, in your own ability, your own strength, your own prowess. -[4098.94 --> 4106.94] Is your trust in the Lord and is your confidence in him or is it in yourself? -[4106.94 --> 4112.94] There's an image that Jeremiah gives that we're going to hang on to and I'm going to put it in your mind. -[4112.94 --> 4119.94] It says, are you a bush in the wasteland, dry and weary and dying? -[4119.94 --> 4123.94] Or are you a tree planted by water? -[4123.94 --> 4130.94] So it would be good as we dig here in this first point to look at what it means to be that bush in the wasteland. -[4130.94 --> 4133.94] I'm going to call that the disappointment of misplaced faith. -[4133.94 --> 4138.94] And so if you're writing notes, you can write that, the disappointment of misplaced faith. -[4138.94 --> 4141.94] What does it mean to be a bush in the wasteland? -[4143.94 --> 4145.94] You are a bush in the wasteland. -[4145.94 --> 4148.94] We read that you don't see true prosperity. -[4148.94 --> 4151.94] You will not see prosperity when it comes. -[4151.94 --> 4154.94] We read that you're always parched. -[4154.94 --> 4156.94] You live in the parched places. -[4156.94 --> 4159.94] That's an image that says you will always be parched. -[4159.94 --> 4161.94] You are never satisfied. -[4161.94 --> 4165.94] Ecclesiastes uses the image of chasing after the wind. -[4165.94 --> 4169.94] And when you try and grab hold of it, finally you open your hands just to realize that it's empty. -[4169.94 --> 4171.94] Never satisfied. -[4172.94 --> 4174.94] It doesn't work. -[4174.94 --> 4178.94] Because the truth is, right, you aren't created to live like this. -[4178.94 --> 4183.94] You aren't created for the desert of barrenness or of emptiness. -[4183.94 --> 4193.94] The language here and the images here in verse 5 and 6 and then tying in 7 and 8, in my mind anyway, as I read it, takes us all the way back to the Garden of Eden. -[4193.94 --> 4194.94] Right? -[4194.94 --> 4206.94] Where Adam and Eve first walked with God in the cool of the day, surrounded by his presence and the beauty of an unmarred creation, an unstained by sin creation. -[4206.94 --> 4210.94] And then when sin comes into the world, they are expelled from this beautiful garden. -[4210.94 --> 4213.94] They're told that working will be a toil. -[4213.94 --> 4214.94] It will be hard. -[4214.94 --> 4216.94] The ground will be rough. -[4218.94 --> 4223.94] And it all happens because they put their faith in someone other than God. -[4223.94 --> 4225.94] They believed in themselves. -[4225.94 --> 4228.94] They believed that they knew better than God. -[4228.94 --> 4233.94] That they could figure out a better life than the creator of life himself. -[4234.94 --> 4239.94] Fundamentally, that's the pride at root of every sin. -[4240.94 --> 4247.94] From Satan's sin to your sin, the idea at root is that you have a better idea than God. -[4247.94 --> 4264.94] And as long as we are operating out of this world view, as long as we are operating out of this stuck place, we will always be that bush in the wasteland, chasing after the wind, never satisfied, never filled, always part. -[4265.94 --> 4271.94] Now, I want you to see something because at this point, we can start creating our own stories. -[4271.94 --> 4276.94] In this text, that person will be like a bush in the wasteland. -[4276.94 --> 4279.94] They will not see prosperity when it comes. -[4283.94 --> 4284.94] What did that person do before? -[4285.94 --> 4286.94] In verse 5, -[4286.94 --> 4294.94] Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh, and whose heart turns away from the Lord. -[4294.94 --> 4304.94] Right? Seeing prosperity, or not being able to see prosperity, happens because we've turned away from the Lord. -[4305.94 --> 4309.94] And so, if we're going to see prosperity, we need to turn back to the Lord. -[4309.94 --> 4312.94] And again, prosperity is seeing the Lord. -[4313.94 --> 4315.94] It's not having more of one thing or another. -[4315.94 --> 4317.94] It's not having the nicest car or the nicest house. -[4317.94 --> 4322.94] Prosperity is seeing God for who he is. -[4322.94 --> 4327.94] So easily, we make it about something else. -[4327.94 --> 4328.94] Right? -[4328.94 --> 4334.94] I've already alluded to this, but in the sort of Instagrammification of culture that has happened, -[4335.94 --> 4338.94] a new prosperity gospel has emerged. -[4339.94 --> 4340.94] Right? -[4340.94 --> 4343.94] One that says, you've got to live your joy. -[4343.94 --> 4344.94] Right? -[4344.94 --> 4345.94] Seek your passion. -[4345.94 --> 4346.94] Right? -[4346.94 --> 4347.94] Find your best life now. -[4347.94 --> 4349.94] Do what sparks joy. -[4349.94 --> 4350.94] Right? -[4350.94 --> 4357.94] The spirituality of places like Instagram is full of nebulous one-liners and an anemic promise of faith. -[4357.94 --> 4359.94] But there's nothing there. -[4360.94 --> 4371.94] And yet, as of the way social media works, because of the way these sorts of things have the tendency to speak to our programmed mind, -[4371.94 --> 4380.94] we like it, we share it, and we contribute to this passing on of this new prosperity gospel. -[4380.94 --> 4387.94] But the reality is, right, of our Christian faith is that Jesus doesn't promise ease or comfort. -[4388.94 --> 4389.94] Right? -[4389.94 --> 4392.94] He doesn't promise protection from bad or hard things. -[4392.94 --> 4397.94] What he promises is his presence in the midst of those hard things. -[4400.94 --> 4405.94] And that is the strength of a planted faith. -[4406.94 --> 4407.94] Right? -[4407.94 --> 4410.94] The image of a tree by streams of water. -[4411.94 --> 4412.94] Right? -[4412.94 --> 4415.94] That does not fear when the heat comes. -[4415.94 --> 4417.94] Notice, the heat comes. -[4417.94 --> 4420.94] But why can you not be afraid? -[4421.94 --> 4422.94] Right? -[4422.94 --> 4424.94] That has no worries in a year of drought. -[4424.94 --> 4426.94] Notice, the drought comes. -[4426.94 --> 4427.94] But why don't we worry? -[4431.94 --> 4433.94] Now, how many of you believe the Bible to be true? -[4433.94 --> 4434.94] I want interactive here. -[4434.94 --> 4435.94] Raise your hand. -[4435.94 --> 4437.94] If you believe the Bible to be true, raise your hand. -[4437.94 --> 4438.94] If you don't, I'm taking notes. -[4438.94 --> 4439.94] We're going to talk after. -[4441.94 --> 4442.94] Right? -[4442.94 --> 4443.94] How many of you believe the Bible to be true? -[4444.94 --> 4447.94] And now, if you raise your hand, I want to ask you, really? -[4452.94 --> 4456.94] What about God works all things for the good of those who love him who have been called according to his purpose? -[4457.94 --> 4458.94] Because all things means all things. -[4458.94 --> 4460.94] So what about that thing that broke you? -[4463.94 --> 4464.94] Believe that? -[4464.94 --> 4469.94] What about Philippians 2, verse 14? -[4469.94 --> 4474.94] And I think this is a great one for today in the midst of this protracted COVID conversation where it says, -[4475.94 --> 4477.94] Do everything without grumbling or arguing. -[4479.94 --> 4480.94] How many of you believe the Bible to be true? -[4483.94 --> 4484.94] Really? -[4485.94 --> 4487.94] Because everything means everything. -[4487.94 --> 4488.94] Right? -[4489.94 --> 4491.94] Now, don't hear what I'm not saying. -[4491.94 --> 4492.94] Right? -[4492.94 --> 4493.94] I don't want to guilt us or shame us. -[4493.94 --> 4495.94] I want to convict us, maybe. -[4495.94 --> 4496.94] But I don't want to shame us. -[4496.94 --> 4501.94] But imagine, with me, imagine what our church would look like. -[4501.94 --> 4506.94] Imagine what your life would look like if we actually believed what we say we believed. -[4507.94 --> 4508.94] Right? -[4509.94 --> 4514.94] If we lived like our profession of faith was true all the time, everywhere, in every circumstance. -[4514.94 --> 4520.94] Imagine what kind of force that would be in this world for God. -[4521.94 --> 4533.94] But if the Bible is true, and I believe it is, and I trust that you want to believe it is, when the heat comes, you don't need to be afraid. -[4533.94 --> 4534.94] Right? -[4534.94 --> 4539.94] But if the Bible is true, when the drought comes, you don't need to worry. -[4540.94 --> 4542.94] When the storm comes, you don't have to have fear. -[4543.94 --> 4544.94] Right? -[4544.94 --> 4545.94] You can have faith. -[4545.94 --> 4548.94] Faith that God has a purpose, and His purpose is good. -[4548.94 --> 4549.94] Right? -[4549.94 --> 4560.94] If God is sovereign, and I believe that He is, and I believe that the Bible clearly states that He is, if God is sovereign, that means everything that happens, happens according to His will. -[4560.94 --> 4567.94] Now, some of you are immediately getting triggered, and so we can have a conversation later about the philosophy of active and passive will. -[4567.94 --> 4572.94] We can parse out the finer distinctions of efficient causality and final causality. -[4572.94 --> 4582.94] We can do all of that if you want, or not, because at the end of the day, and at the beginning, if God is sovereign, what happens, happens only because He willed it. -[4582.94 --> 4589.94] And if He willed it, that means somehow, in some way, it is meant for your good. -[4591.94 --> 4601.94] Even a global pandemic is somehow meant, in the sovereign will of God, for your good. -[4602.94 --> 4607.94] Is your God big enough for that to be true? -[4607.94 --> 4611.94] Because I've got to tell you, the God of the Bible certainly is. -[4612.94 --> 4614.94] Now think about that for a moment. -[4614.94 --> 4615.94] Right? -[4615.94 --> 4623.94] Think about the comfort and the joy and the unshakable truth that God is in control of all things, and how that changes your life. -[4623.94 --> 4632.94] Think about how that changes how you see life, whether it's your struggles, or your diseases, your depression, your illnesses, right? -[4632.94 --> 4634.94] The death of a loved one. -[4634.94 --> 4639.94] If God is that big, if He is really that sovereign, right? -[4639.94 --> 4650.94] This big and sovereign God who works all things for His glory and our good, that means somehow, in some way, God is always in the mix. -[4650.94 --> 4653.94] God is in the darkest moment of your life. -[4653.94 --> 4656.94] God is in the hardest moment of your life. -[4656.94 --> 4661.94] God is in the most difficult, atrocious things that have ever happened to you. -[4661.94 --> 4666.94] He is there. -[4666.94 --> 4669.94] You may not see Him. -[4669.94 --> 4677.94] And you may not ever, this side of heaven, know why or how, but He is there. -[4677.94 --> 4680.94] And you don't need to be afraid. -[4680.94 --> 4682.94] You don't need to worry. -[4682.94 --> 4688.94] You don't need to be scared or to hide in a corner or to isolate yourself and to give up hope. -[4688.94 --> 4691.94] Because God is there. -[4693.94 --> 4700.94] That's what Jeremiah means when he says that a glorious throne is our sanctuary. -[4700.94 --> 4714.94] The absolute, all-sovereign power of God, the God who rules and reigns over everything, is the only sanctuary in the midst of a storm and trial. -[4714.94 --> 4716.94] And let's be really clear, right? -[4716.94 --> 4720.94] Sanctuary doesn't come by being saved from the storm. -[4720.94 --> 4727.94] Sanctuary comes by being saved in the storm. -[4727.94 --> 4743.94] In the 19th century, there was a pastor and orphanage worker in England whose name was George Muller. -[4743.94 --> 4752.94] George Muller founded an institute called the Scripture Knowledge Institute for Home and Abroad. -[4752.94 --> 4760.94] The primary goals of this institute were teaching the Bible, giving away Bibles, supporting missionaries, and providing orphan care. -[4760.94 --> 4770.94] In 1834, when George started, there was 3,600 orphans that had housing in all of England. -[4770.94 --> 4774.94] And twice as many under the age of eight were in prison. -[4774.94 --> 4777.94] The rest lived on the streets. -[4777.94 --> 4785.94] In his lifetime, Muller built five orphan houses that cared for over 10,000 new orphans. -[4785.94 --> 4790.94] He, in this work, tripled the care of orphans in England. -[4790.94 --> 4791.94] One man. -[4791.94 --> 4794.94] But that's not what I want you to hear about him. -[4794.94 --> 4798.94] Do you know how he funded his operation? -[4798.94 --> 4805.94] An operation that housed more than 10,000 orphans, that taught over 16,000 kids and adults, that supported missionaries around the world. -[4805.94 --> 4807.94] How did he fund that? -[4807.94 --> 4809.94] He prayed. -[4809.94 --> 4811.94] That's all he did. -[4811.94 --> 4815.94] Not once did he ask people for money. -[4815.94 --> 4821.94] Not once did he ask his teams to go out and fundraise. -[4821.94 --> 4822.94] Right? -[4822.94 --> 4824.94] He didn't ask his employees for money. -[4824.94 --> 4829.94] He prayed with the need and time and time again, God satisfied. -[4829.94 --> 4833.94] He tells incredible stories of praying and then somebody showing up with a banknote. -[4833.94 --> 4835.94] He never took out a loan from a bank. -[4835.94 --> 4837.94] He never borrowed in private interest. -[4837.94 --> 4846.94] He prayed and his prayer was answered over and over and over again to the tune of what, by today's standards, would be millions of dollars. -[4846.94 --> 4850.94] But that's still not what I want you to hear about him. -[4850.94 --> 4859.94] Because you see, George Muller's wife contracted rheumatic fever. -[4859.94 --> 4863.94] And she died from it at age 57. -[4863.94 --> 4866.94] These are the words that he preached at her funeral. -[4866.94 --> 4868.94] This is what I want you to hear. -[4868.94 --> 4870.94] He said, -[4870.94 --> 4875.94] When I heard the doctor's judgment that it was rheumatic fever, I expected the worst. -[4875.94 --> 4879.94] My heart was nigh to be broken on account of the depth of my affection. -[4879.94 --> 4884.94] And when he went on, he then goes on to explain how he was strengthened during these times. -[4884.94 --> 4886.94] And this is from him. -[4886.94 --> 4891.94] The last portion of scripture which I read to my precious wife was this. -[4891.94 --> 4893.94] This is from Psalm 84. -[4893.94 --> 4897.94] The Lord God is a sun and shield. -[4897.94 --> 4899.94] The Lord will give grace and glory. -[4899.94 --> 4904.94] No good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. -[4904.94 --> 4906.94] Muller goes on. -[4906.94 --> 4913.94] Now, if we have believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, we have received grace and we are partakers of grace. -[4913.94 --> 4917.94] And to all such he will give glory also. -[4917.94 --> 4920.94] I said to myself with regard to the latter part, -[4920.94 --> 4923.94] No good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. -[4923.94 --> 4929.94] I in myself am a poor and worthless sinner, but I have been saved by the blood of Christ. -[4929.94 --> 4931.94] And I do not live in sin. -[4931.94 --> 4933.94] I walk uprightly before God. -[4933.94 --> 4934.94] And here it is. -[4934.94 --> 4935.94] Here it is. -[4935.94 --> 4941.94] Therefore, if it is really good for me, my darling wife will be raised up again, sick as she is. -[4941.94 --> 4944.94] God will restore her again. -[4944.94 --> 4949.94] But if she is not restored again, then it would not be a good thing for me. -[4949.94 --> 4952.94] And so my heart is at rest. -[4952.94 --> 4955.94] And I will be satisfied with God. -[4955.94 --> 4962.94] And all this springs, Muller concludes, from taking God at his word. -[4962.94 --> 4965.94] From believing what he says. -[4965.94 --> 4968.94] You believe the Bible. -[4968.94 --> 4981.94] The one who got millions of dollars in response to his prayers for the orphans did not get his one prayer answered for healing in his wife. -[4981.94 --> 4987.94] Instead, he got something which he believed to be better. -[4987.94 --> 4992.94] To know a great God who gives only good gifts. -[4992.94 --> 5008.94] Muller believed because the Bible told him that even this heartbreak, even this tragedy, somehow, in some way, for God's glory is good. -[5008.94 --> 5014.94] Now, I don't know how that that is true. -[5014.94 --> 5018.94] But I do know that it is true. -[5018.94 --> 5020.94] Here's the catch. -[5020.94 --> 5027.94] You can't become this kind of person on your own. -[5027.94 --> 5034.94] The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. -[5034.94 --> 5036.94] We try to trick ourselves. -[5036.94 --> 5037.94] Right? -[5037.94 --> 5040.94] We convince ourselves that it's all right. -[5040.94 --> 5041.94] That we don't need God. -[5041.94 --> 5042.94] That there's another way. -[5042.94 --> 5043.94] A better way. -[5043.94 --> 5044.94] An easier way. -[5044.94 --> 5047.94] But the truth is all over the Bible. -[5047.94 --> 5052.94] The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. -[5052.94 --> 5057.94] And Obadiah says, the pride of your heart has deceived you. -[5057.94 --> 5060.94] You who say to yourself, who can bring me down to the ground? -[5060.94 --> 5061.94] Right? -[5061.94 --> 5066.94] 1 John 1, if we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. -[5066.94 --> 5071.94] James 1, do not merely listen to the word and so deceive yourselves. -[5071.94 --> 5072.94] Do what it says. -[5072.94 --> 5075.94] The heart is deceitful and beyond cure. -[5075.94 --> 5080.94] This is what the reformers 500 years ago began to call the bondage of the will. -[5080.94 --> 5083.94] You cannot save yourself. -[5083.94 --> 5089.94] Jeremiah doesn't pull any punches this morning. -[5089.94 --> 5099.94] I, the Lord, search the heart and examine the mind to reward each person according to their conduct. -[5099.94 --> 5105.94] Lord, you are the hope of Israel. -[5105.94 --> 5108.94] All who forsake you will be put to shame. -[5108.94 --> 5113.94] Those who turn away from you will be ridden in the dust because they have forsaken the Lord. -[5113.94 --> 5118.94] All have sinned. -[5118.94 --> 5121.94] Fall short of the glory of God. -[5121.94 --> 5125.94] Make no mistake about it. -[5125.94 --> 5127.94] This morning. -[5127.94 --> 5134.94] In a culture and a time and place that wants everything to be easy and comfortable, -[5134.94 --> 5140.94] that wishes the reality of sin and the consequence of sin in the doctrine of hell wasn't true, -[5140.94 --> 5143.94] the Bible comes along and says, -[5143.94 --> 5147.94] this is the word of the Lord. -[5147.94 --> 5153.94] But because we can't do it ourselves, -[5153.94 --> 5161.94] we cling to a God who has done it for us. -[5161.94 --> 5166.94] Heal me, Lord, and I will be healed. -[5166.94 --> 5169.94] Save me, and I will be saved. -[5169.94 --> 5173.94] This God who gives us this promise, who asks the question, -[5173.94 --> 5179.94] who do you trust, displays over and over again in the person of Jesus Christ -[5179.94 --> 5185.94] why he is ultimately trustworthy, why he is ultimately worthy of our praise. -[5185.94 --> 5189.94] Because Jesus, God himself, the second person of the eternal trinity, -[5189.94 --> 5192.94] took on flesh and made his dwelling among us. -[5192.94 --> 5197.94] Jesus who came into this world perfect and lived the life I should have lived. -[5197.94 --> 5204.94] Jesus who died the death that I deserve, that you deserve, who paid the punishment for our sin. -[5204.94 --> 5210.94] Jesus who was raised victorious three days later and is now seated at the right hand of God the Father. -[5210.94 --> 5213.94] This same Jesus reaches out to you and says, -[5213.94 --> 5216.94] new creation, new life reaches out to you and says, -[5216.94 --> 5218.94] you are no longer defined by sin. -[5218.94 --> 5222.94] You are no longer slaves and bound in your will to this old way of being. -[5222.94 --> 5225.94] You are mine. -[5225.94 --> 5228.94] You are new. -[5228.94 --> 5233.94] The brokenness of our relationship, Jesus brings. -[5233.94 --> 5238.94] Healing in the reality of our sin, Jesus brings salvation. -[5238.94 --> 5244.94] To the loneliness and isolation we feel, Jesus brings family. -[5245.94 --> 5246.94] New family. -[5246.94 --> 5247.94] Together. -[5247.94 --> 5250.94] It's God's people. -[5256.94 --> 5262.94] For those of us who know this new life. -[5262.94 --> 5265.94] For those of us who are struggling to believe and crying out, -[5265.94 --> 5267.94] Lord, help my unbelief. -[5267.94 --> 5271.94] For those of us who know what it is to be healed and saved. -[5271.94 --> 5276.94] We live in a time and place, not unlike Jeremiah, who had people surrounding him saying, -[5276.94 --> 5277.94] where is the word of the Lord? -[5277.94 --> 5279.94] Where is your God? -[5279.94 --> 5288.94] We live in a time and place where we are challenged in our trust and in our belief. -[5288.94 --> 5292.94] Jeremiah says, I have not run away from being your shepherd. -[5293.94 --> 5297.94] I have not given up in the task that you have called me to. -[5297.94 --> 5304.94] So, here, today, we are challenged in our belief. -[5304.94 --> 5309.94] We are challenged out of the love of God for us. -[5309.94 --> 5317.94] We are challenged that our belief might lead to an affection, to a heart for God's purposes and God's work in the world. -[5317.94 --> 5320.94] And we are called to the city. -[5320.94 --> 5330.94] Now, the city here is a placeholder for Murrayville, for Langley, for wherever you happen to be in your life, in your context of mission. -[5330.94 --> 5332.94] And so, maybe it's a farm. -[5332.94 --> 5333.94] Maybe it's a classroom. -[5333.94 --> 5334.94] Maybe it's an office. -[5334.94 --> 5336.94] Maybe it's a coffee shop. -[5336.94 --> 5357.94] But each and every one of us, all of you, are sent out with this belief in this love and with this love from God's heart for you to your heart and then out of your heart to whomever and wherever you go. -[5357.94 --> 5363.94] And God has healed himself in power. -[5363.94 --> 5368.94] Will you live in that power? -[5368.94 --> 5372.94] Will you live in the truth of his word? -[5374.94 --> 5380.94] After service, we have ministries and missions who are out there in the foyer. -[5380.94 --> 5391.94] All of those opportunities and places are instances of God at work in the world through our church. -[5391.94 --> 5401.94] They are part of how we and how you live your belief and love in the city. -[5401.94 --> 5407.94] Langley, Surrey, Vancouver, wherever you are, you're online wherever you are. -[5407.94 --> 5412.94] This is God's mission. -[5412.94 --> 5419.94] And on the firm foundation of his word, he invites us to go with him. -[5419.94 --> 5422.94] I'm going to go. -[5422.94 --> 5423.94] You want to come? -[5423.94 --> 5426.94] You want to see what God's going to do? -[5426.94 --> 5428.94] Because I'm excited. -[5428.94 --> 5429.94] Let's see what God's going to do. -[5429.94 --> 5431.94] Let's pray together. -[5431.94 --> 5438.94] Lord our God, do your thing. -[5438.94 --> 5444.94] Exercise your sovereign power and call us out of darkness into your wonderful light. -[5444.94 --> 5448.94] Call us out of our comfort zones into the places where you are leading and guiding. -[5448.94 --> 5458.94] God, we don't know exactly where you are taking us, but we want to follow in devotion. -[5458.94 --> 5465.94] We want to come after you even as you have come after us in Jesus Christ. -[5465.94 --> 5471.94] And so, Lord God, send us out today in the power of your Holy Spirit. -[5471.94 --> 5474.94] Send us out in the conviction of your truth. -[5474.94 --> 5479.94] Send us out in the belief that you are God. -[5479.94 --> 5491.94] God, you, good, that you go with us wherever you go. -[5491.94 --> 5500.94] You call us and promise to provide and equip us for the journey of life and faith. -[5500.94 --> 5502.94] Where is your faith? -[5502.94 --> 5504.94] Where is your faith? -[5504.94 --> 5505.94] There is in you. -[5505.94 --> 5508.94] May it always, only, ever be. -[5508.94 --> 5511.94] In Jesus' name we pray. -[5511.94 --> 5513.94] Amen. -[5513.94 --> 5515.94] Amen. -[5515.94 --> 5540.94] You hear me when I call. -[5540.94 --> 5542.94] Are you still like, Lord, only song -[5542.94 --> 5546.06] Though darkness kills the night -[5546.06 --> 5549.36] Yes, come on, like this, child -[5549.36 --> 5553.12] Who shall I be? -[5555.54 --> 5557.94] You crushed the enemy -[5557.94 --> 5561.76] Underneath my feet -[5561.76 --> 5564.84] You are my storage shield -[5564.84 --> 5567.94] The troubled, printers still -[5567.94 --> 5572.24] Who shall I be? -[5574.32 --> 5577.50] I know He's looking for me -[5577.50 --> 5580.58] I know He stands in mind -[5580.58 --> 5583.88] The God of angel armies -[5583.88 --> 5586.94] Is always by my side -[5586.94 --> 5589.92] The one who reigns forever -[5589.92 --> 5593.18] He is a friend of mine -[5593.18 --> 5596.56] The God of angel armies -[5596.56 --> 5600.16] Is always by my side -[5600.16 --> 5609.20] The grace is in your name -[5609.20 --> 5612.32] For you alone can stay -[5612.32 --> 5615.50] You will deliver me -[5615.50 --> 5618.64] Yours is the victory -[5618.64 --> 5622.70] Who shall I be? -[5626.56 --> 5629.52] Who shall I be? -[5632.74 --> 5635.92] I know He calls me glory -[5635.92 --> 5639.20] I know He stands behind -[5639.20 --> 5642.80] The God of angel armies -[5642.80 --> 5645.66] Is always by my side -[5645.66 --> 5648.84] The one who reigns forever -[5648.84 --> 5652.16] He is a friend of mine -[5652.16 --> 5655.44] The God of angel armies -[5655.44 --> 5659.40] Is always by my side -[5659.40 --> 5665.00] Against me shall I be? -[5665.00 --> 5673.00] You hold the whole world in your hand -[5673.00 --> 5678.60] I'm holding on to your promises -[5678.60 --> 5681.96] You are faithful -[5681.96 --> 5685.24] You are faithful -[5685.24 --> 5689.60] And nothing formed against me -[5689.60 --> 5693.20] He shall stand -[5693.20 --> 5699.20] You hold the whole world in your hands -[5699.20 --> 5704.48] I'm holding on to your promises -[5704.48 --> 5707.08] You are faithful -[5707.08 --> 5708.08] You are faithful -[5708.08 --> 5710.96] You are faithful -[5710.96 --> 5714.16] You are faithful -[5714.16 --> 5714.64] You are faithful -[5717.76 --> 5719.84] I know He will deliver me -[5719.84 --> 5721.60] I know He is faithful -[5721.60 --> 5722.84] I know He will come -[5722.84 --> 5725.70] I know who stands behind. -[5725.70 --> 5732.38] The God of angel armies is always by my side. -[5732.50 --> 5738.84] The one who reigns forever, he is a friend of mine. -[5739.38 --> 5745.52] The God of angel armies is always by my side. -[5745.52 --> 5753.58] The God of angel armies is always by my side. -[5761.58 --> 5766.68] As you go, know that God goes with you. -[5767.12 --> 5773.68] And so receive his blessing, his provision for the journey of life and faith ahead. -[5775.52 --> 5778.44] May God go before you to lead you. -[5779.18 --> 5781.48] May God go behind you to protect you. -[5782.38 --> 5784.52] May God go beneath you to support you. -[5785.14 --> 5787.58] May God go beside you to befriend you. -[5787.94 --> 5789.84] Do not be afraid. -[5790.64 --> 5792.60] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5792.72 --> 5794.30] Do not be afraid. -[5795.16 --> 5799.36] Go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5800.70 --> 5801.30] Amen. -[5805.52 --> 5823.36] I know he rescued my soul. -[5824.36 --> 5826.96] His blood covered my sin. -[5826.96 --> 5827.96] I believe. -[5827.96 --> 5828.18] I believe. -[5828.18 --> 5828.24] I believe. -[5828.24 --> 5828.74] I believe. -[5828.74 --> 5829.88] I believe. -[5829.88 --> 5831.74] I believe. -[5831.74 --> 5838.66] My shame is taken away. -[5838.66 --> 5842.32] His pain is healed in his name. -[5842.32 --> 5843.06] I believe. -[5843.06 --> 5844.06] I believe. -[5844.06 --> 5845.06] I believe. -[5845.06 --> 5846.06] I believe. -[5846.06 --> 5847.06] I believe. -[5847.06 --> 5848.06] I believe. -[5848.06 --> 5849.06] I believe. -[5849.06 --> 5850.06] I believe. -[5850.06 --> 5853.06] I'll raise the banner. -[5853.06 --> 5857.92] My Lord has conquered the grave. -[5857.92 --> 5861.34] My Redeemer lives. -[5861.34 --> 5864.34] My Redeemer lives. -[5864.34 --> 5868.34] My Redeemer lives. -[5868.34 --> 5869.34] My Redeemer lives. -[5869.34 --> 5873.34] My Redeemer lives. -[5873.34 --> 5878.02] He rescued my soul. -[5878.02 --> 5881.78] His blood has covered my sin. -[5881.78 --> 5882.78] I believe. -[5882.78 --> 5883.78] I believe. -[5883.78 --> 5884.78] My Redeemer lives. -[5884.78 --> 5885.78] I believe. -[5885.78 --> 5886.78] I believe. -[5886.78 --> 5887.78] I believe. -[5887.78 --> 5888.78] I believe. -[5888.78 --> 5892.78] My shame is taken away. -[5892.78 --> 5893.78] My pain is healed in his name. -[5893.78 --> 5894.78] I believe. -[5894.78 --> 5895.78] I believe. -[5895.78 --> 5897.78] I believe. -[5897.78 --> 5898.78] I believe. -[5898.78 --> 5899.78] I believe. -[5899.78 --> 5900.78] I believe. -[5900.78 --> 5901.78] I believe. -[5901.78 --> 5902.78] I believe. -[5902.78 --> 5904.78] I believe. -[5904.78 --> 5906.78] I believe. -[5906.78 --> 5907.78] I'll raise the banner. -[5907.78 --> 5911.80] My Lord has conquered the grave. -[5911.80 --> 5913.78] My Redeemer lives. -[5913.78 --> 5925.80] My Redeemer lives. -[5925.80 --> 5946.10] My Redeemer is -[5946.10 --> 5950.80] You lift my burdens -[5950.80 --> 5954.46] I'll rise with You -[5954.46 --> 5958.46] Dancing on this mountaintop -[5959.32 --> 5963.46] To see Your kingdom come -[5963.46 --> 5968.46] My Redeemer lives -[5968.46 --> 5972.46] My Redeemer lives -[5972.46 --> 5976.46] My Redeemer lives -[5976.46 --> 5980.46] My Redeemer lives -[5980.46 --> 5984.46] My Redeemer lives -[5984.46 --> 5988.46] My Redeemer lives -[5988.46 --> 5992.46] My Redeemer lives -[5992.46 --> 5996.46] My Redeemer lives -[5996.46 --> 6002.46] My Redeemer lives -[6002.46 --> 6004.46] My Redeemer lives -[6004.46 --> 6034.44] Thank you. -[6034.46 --> 6064.44] Thank you. -[6064.46 --> 6094.44] Thank you. -[6094.46 --> 6124.44] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 24, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 24, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 1095fed1b5b760571b041213be83f86f7597b269..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 24, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,83 +0,0 @@ -• Gratitude expressed multiple times -• Acknowledgment of God's presence -• Children's blessing prayer -• Congregation gathering for church family prayer -• Thanking God for creation and daily opportunities -• Reference to the covenant and Lord's presence in everyday life -• Gratitude for the changing seasons and time with family -• Confession of sins against God and others -• Recognition and renunciation of personal idols and distractions from God -• Thanksgiving for new school year and opportunities for growth in faith -• Intercession for church leaders, ministries, and volunteers -• Prayers for global events, including natural disasters, wars, and political crises -• Giving thanks for specific individuals, their needs, and those affected by HIV/AIDS and other health issues -• Discussion of the importance of slowing down and sabbathing in the presence of God, especially in a culture that idolizes busyness -• Reading from Deuteronomy 4:5-8 about Moses' final message to the people before entering the Promised Land -• Explanation of how gathering as a church is essential for worship, celebration of God's work, and growth in faith -• Discussion of the shared witness and mission of the church, with an emphasis on scattering and going out to share the Gospel -• Ministry and mission are encouraged by God -• Over 330 volunteer positions available at the church, with around 60% of members actively volunteering (approximately 144 people) -• Average volunteers hold 2.29 volunteer positions -• This high level of volunteering is unusual compared to institutional norms -• Many opportunities exist for new volunteers to get involved and add to the shared witness of the church -• Application of biblical promises to the church -• Hosea 11:1 and its connection to Matthew 2:13-15 and Jesus' flight to Egypt -• Fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in Jesus Christ -• Romans 6:6-9 and its discussion on union with Christ in death and resurrection -• New life in Christ and freedom from sin -• The promise of God to Abraham is the same as the fulfillment in Jesus Christ -• Israel was a slave in Egypt but promised freedom by God -• Jesus became obedient unto death to set us free from being slaves to sin -• The devil attempted to circumvent this promise by tempting Jesus with power and wealth -• Philippians 2:5-11 describes how Jesus humbled himself, becoming obedient to death on the cross -• The promise of God is now applied to the life of the church -• Revelation 3:12 mentions the new name written on believers as a sign of their salvation -• The multitude from every nation and tribe standing before the throne and Lamb in white robes -• The fulfillment of promises made to Israel in Jesus and its application to the church -• The temple as a place where God dwells among His people, including the body of Christ -• The Bible's principle that what is promised to Israel is fulfilled in Jesus and applied to the church -• The magnetic nature of God's presence being revealed through obedience and perfect life -• The compelling nature of Jesus' obedience and its drawing power to Himself -• The presence of God among us is revealed through our obedience, shared life together, and beauty alongside scars. -• This reveals the kingdom of God in our hearts and lives, drawing others to encounter Him. -• Moses commands Israel to observe God's laws carefully, as they will show wisdom and understanding to other nations. -• Israel is to lead by example, drawing others to the truth of who God is and His plan for how to live. -• Protecting children is connected to honoring God's name, reflecting God's special place in His heart for them. -• The promise to drown unwanted children, mentioned in Psalm 137 -• God's passion for children and the Christian church's practice of baptizing infants -• Infanticide and infant exposure in Roman culture during the Roman Empire period -• Early Christian response to infanticide, including collecting abandoned children and raising them as their own -• The early church's efforts to write letters to the emperor to stop the practice of infanticide -• Modern-day continuation of the work of protecting children from sacrifice and trafficking -• The principle of a nation's God being near to them is reflected in biblical accounts -• God hears the prayers and sees the tears of His people, including Israelites and others mentioned in Isaiah and Exodus -• Scripture also emphasizes that prayer can be answered, with examples from Proverbs and James -• The effectiveness of prayer is demonstrated by healing when prayed for by saints and elders -• The importance of praying over oil and anointing for spiritual work -• Shared witness is magnified through prayer, obedience, and declaration of God's work -• Witness is also made magnetic and compelling when hearts are changed by God -• Shared life with others strengthens witness to the world -• The church should be in places where God's presence is acknowledged or lacking -• A faithful church prioritizes displaying Christ's tenderness and beauty in its community -• The concept of Jesus' life and obedience as a model for Christians -• The idea that Christians are like the soul to the body in the world -• Bringing life and beauty to a "lifeless" world through faith and obedience -• The role of Jesus' obedience in revealing God and making salvation possible -• The connection between Jesus' death on the cross and redemption -• The responsibility of Christians to share their witness of the kingdom of God -• Launching an art project for the community -• Asking people to submit photos of places they love and spend time in -• Creating a piece that calls them to remember why they gather, grow, and go out -• Focusing on mission fields and gathering places as part of their shared witness -• Submitting photos to the office or communicating team for creation of a new piece -• The speaker expresses their faith and trust in God, citing Bible verses and prayers -• The congregation is encouraged to go forward in confidence, trusting that God hears their prayers and is present in their lives -• A hymn or song is sung, with repetitive lyrics emphasizing following God's lead -• A message of encouragement and invitation to connect with others for prayer and community is given -• Invitation to pray with prayer partners -• Blessing of God and going before, behind, beneath, and beside -• Do not be afraid, let God's blessing come upon you today -• Song invitation for tonight at 6 p.m. -• Worship song lyrics -• Personal testimony of being a servant of God -• Declaration of belonging to God body and soul in life and death \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 24, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 24, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a48528149a0e808a001cb0ea7fd85ee8bdb15d30..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 24, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1564 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[299.98 --> 329.96] Thank you. -[329.98 --> 359.96] Thank you. -[359.98 --> 389.96] Thank you. -[389.98 --> 419.96] Thank you. -[419.98 --> 449.96] Thank you. -[449.98 --> 479.96] Thank you. -[479.98 --> 509.96] Thank you. -[509.98 --> 539.96] Thank you. -[539.98 --> 569.96] Thank you. -[569.96 --> 599.94] Thank you. -[599.96 --> 629.94] Thank you. -[629.98 --> 659.94] Thank you. -[659.94 --> 689.92] Thank you. -[689.94 --> 694.86] So just a huge, so just a huge, huge thank you to all of you for coming out and doing -[694.86 --> 695.12] that. -[719.94 --> 749.92] Thank you. -[749.94 --> 779.94] Thank you. -[779.94 --> 809.94] Thank you. -[809.94 --> 839.92] Thank you. -[839.94 --> 869.92] Thank you. -[869.92 --> 899.90] Thank you. -[899.90 --> 929.88] Thank you. -[929.90 --> 959.88] Thank you. -[959.90 --> 989.88] Thank you. -[989.90 --> 1019.88] Thank you. -[1019.88 --> 1049.86] Thank you. -[1049.88 --> 1079.86] Thank you. -[1079.88 --> 1109.86] Thank you. -[1109.88 --> 1139.86] Thank you. -[1139.88 --> 1169.86] Thank you. -[1169.88 --> 1199.86] Thank you. -[1199.88 --> 1229.86] Thank you. -[1229.88 --> 1259.86] Thank you. -[1259.88 --> 1289.86] Thank you. -[1289.88 --> 1319.86] Thank you. -[1319.88 --> 1349.86] Thank you. -[1349.86 --> 1379.86] Thank you. -[1379.86 --> 1409.84] Thank you for your stead, thank you for your stead, thank you. -[1409.84 --> 1439.82] Thank you. -[1439.84 --> 1469.82] Thank you. -[1469.84 --> 1499.84] Thank you. -[1499.84 --> 1529.82] Thank you. -[1529.84 --> 1559.82] Thank you. -[1559.84 --> 1589.82] Thank you. -[1589.84 --> 1619.82] Thank you. -[1619.84 --> 1649.82] Thank you. -[1649.84 --> 1679.82] Thank you. -[1679.84 --> 1709.82] Thank you. -[1709.84 --> 1739.82] Thank you. -[1739.82 --> 1769.80] Thank you. -[1769.82 --> 1799.80] Thank you. -[1799.82 --> 1829.80] Thank you. -[1829.80 --> 1859.78] Thank you. -[1859.80 --> 1889.78] Thank you. -[1889.78 --> 1919.78] Thank you. -[1919.78 --> 1949.76] Thank you. -[1949.78 --> 1979.78] Thank you. -[1979.78 --> 2009.76] Thank you. -[2009.78 --> 2039.76] Thank you. -[2039.78 --> 2069.76] We do with God. -[2069.76 --> 2099.76] Thank you. -[2099.76 --> 2129.74] Thank you. -[2129.76 --> 2159.74] Did I say, you know, I'm going to say, you know, I'm going to say, you know, I'm going to say, -[2159.74 --> 2189.74] God, we praise you. -[2189.74 --> 2219.74] Thank you. -[2219.74 --> 2249.72] Thank you. -[2249.74 --> 2256.74] Good morning. -[2256.74 --> 2286.74] Good morning. -[2286.74 --> 2316.72] Thank you. -[2316.74 --> 2317.74] for your support. -[2317.74 --> 2318.74] Thank you. -[2318.74 --> 2346.72] Thank you. -[2346.74 --> 2348.74] Thank you. -[2376.74 --> 2378.74] Thank you. -[2406.74 --> 2408.74] Thank you. -[2436.74 --> 2438.74] Thank you. -[2466.74 --> 2468.74] Thank you. -[2496.74 --> 2498.74] Thank you. -[2526.74 --> 2528.74] Thank you. -[2556.74 --> 2558.74] Thank you. -[2586.74 --> 2616.74] I would love to, -[2616.74 --> 2646.74] here, -[2646.74 --> 2648.74] we're here in the sanctuary, you know, I'm going to say, you know, I'm going to say, you know, -[2648.74 --> 2650.74] you, I'm going to go with it, but I'll do so I happen to the Lord, I'm going to hear this, God any of the Lord this is 후, you know, I'm going to do one day, the covenant right, you know, IВотtey, You know the Lord be with you. -[2650.74 --> 2656.86] live as you call us to in this world. We pray this in your son's name. Amen. Okay, we're going to do -[2656.86 --> 2661.90] the children's blessing. Are you ready? So let's stand up. The congregation's going to, too. Look -[2661.90 --> 2665.70] at them all. They know the drill, right? All right, and we'll put our hands up, and we're going to say -[2665.70 --> 2670.84] the Lord be with you together. Nice and loud, okay? Really loud this time. Here we go. One, two, three. -[2670.84 --> 2676.64] The Lord be with you. And also with you. All right, you guys can go to children's worship time. -[2680.74 --> 2702.04] Good morning. My name is Dave. I am one of the elders for this congregation. Let's join -[2702.04 --> 2710.26] together in our church family prayer. Father, this is the day that you have made. We rejoice, -[2710.74 --> 2715.48] and we are glad at it. Father, we thank you for the opportunity to meet as your church -[2715.48 --> 2720.68] and the church universal to celebrate the body of believers and to celebrate your name. -[2721.92 --> 2727.20] Father, we praise you for your creation and the place where we live. We think about the summer -[2727.20 --> 2732.94] that we just enjoyed, an opportunity to travel, to enjoy the outdoors, and to spend time with family. -[2733.64 --> 2740.72] We thank you for fall, for the change of seasons, and another opportunity to enjoy the world around -[2740.72 --> 2749.08] us. And we really take meaning from the words that God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. -[2750.64 --> 2755.34] Father, it's important for us to have a time of confession where we think about the sins that we've -[2755.34 --> 2760.30] committed against each other. And when we sin against each other, we are also sinning against you. -[2761.04 --> 2766.88] We confess there are things that we have done and things that we have not done. We confess that there -[2766.88 --> 2773.92] are things that we have said and things that we have not said that have been our failing. Father, we confess -[2773.92 --> 2782.76] that we all have our idols, an idol being anything that we put before you. We confess that there are -[2782.76 --> 2791.28] times where we put work and career, possessions, status, nation, politics, ideology, and our own sacred -[2791.28 --> 2802.32] cows, that we place them all before you. Help us to put those aside so that we can serve you and so that we can serve others. -[2803.20 --> 2814.62] Father, this is a good time for us to give thanks. We give thanks for a new school year, an opportunity for our students to learn more about the creation, about their world, -[2814.62 --> 2823.04] to learn more about their country, community, their own lives, and their relationship with you. -[2824.18 --> 2829.52] Father, we thank you for the leadership in this church. We think about Pastor Chris and Kevin and Josh. -[2829.74 --> 2835.10] We ask that you help them to faithfully share your word with us so that we may grow in our faith with you. -[2835.10 --> 2843.10] We think about our council, the elders and deacons, those who have the responsibilities for governance, pastoral care, and benevolence. -[2843.48 --> 2847.88] We pray for wisdom for them as they make their decisions and serve this church community. -[2848.30 --> 2853.98] We think about the many ministries that this church supports and the volunteers who make those happen. -[2854.46 --> 2857.88] We think about missions, our local needs and charities. -[2857.88 --> 2866.74] We think about those who volunteer for nursery, children's worship time, gems, cadets, the youth, the young adults, care groups, and seniors, -[2866.94 --> 2869.78] and all the ministries that we know are important. -[2870.32 --> 2875.40] We pray that all of them will serve our community and bring us closer to you. -[2876.04 --> 2883.20] We ask that you will move those who can serve to volunteer for any of these important ministries. -[2884.30 --> 2886.98] Father, we also pray for the needs that we have. -[2886.98 --> 2889.78] We pray for the needs that we have both here and around the world. -[2890.26 --> 2896.40] We think about the serious earthquake in Morocco, and we think about the terrible flooding that took place in Libya. -[2896.86 --> 2901.18] For both of those occasions, we grieve the loss of life. -[2901.52 --> 2904.84] We pray that you'll be very close to those who are grieving and mourning. -[2905.44 --> 2909.72] And for all the damage and number of people who have been displaced from their homes, -[2909.72 --> 2913.90] we pray that national and international efforts will fall into place, -[2914.00 --> 2917.08] that they'll be able to provide the relief to those who need it. -[2917.64 --> 2921.04] We think about political uncertainty in Niger and Gabon, -[2921.42 --> 2924.66] where they're wondering what kind of leadership their countries will have. -[2925.00 --> 2926.88] We pray for wisdom for those in charge, -[2927.28 --> 2930.46] and that they'll be able, whether they acknowledge you or not, -[2930.94 --> 2934.40] that they will take seriously the message to act justly, -[2934.40 --> 2937.26] to love mercy and to walk humbly with their God. -[2937.86 --> 2940.70] We think about the ongoing war in Ukraine. -[2942.24 --> 2945.16] And aside from all the politics and geopolitics of it, -[2945.32 --> 2949.64] we remember that it's the innocents caught in the middle who are going to suffer. -[2950.04 --> 2953.26] We pray that this war can come to an end, -[2953.50 --> 2956.84] and a real meaningful peace can be achieved between those two countries. -[2956.84 --> 2959.72] Father, we think about our offering today, -[2960.20 --> 2965.40] where we give our funds to the seeds of hope, -[2965.78 --> 2968.48] where we think about those who have been affected by HMV and AIDS. -[2968.80 --> 2972.86] We thank you for that ministry and the difference that we can make in those lives. -[2973.44 --> 2977.26] We think about the needs of those in our own congregation and their family members. -[2977.84 --> 2980.32] We pray for Thelma Tassemacher, -[2980.84 --> 2985.34] Amanda's mom who is in palliative care and facing the end of life. -[2985.34 --> 2989.26] We pray that you'll give her the peace and comfort that she needs. -[2991.60 --> 2997.16] And we pray for God's presence for all those who know her and who love her. -[2997.64 --> 2999.96] We thank you, Lord, that Ellen White is at home. -[3000.52 --> 3004.42] We ask that you'll help us to provide the support and the love that she needs -[3004.42 --> 3005.88] as she faces her health needs. -[3006.30 --> 3008.74] We think about Rose Vita with her health concerns. -[3008.74 --> 3015.74] We do pray for healing and better quality of life with that. -[3016.08 --> 3020.74] Father, we think about Amy Cron, a former member of this church who is dealing with cancer -[3020.74 --> 3023.48] and in the midst of chemotherapy. -[3024.24 --> 3027.48] We thank you for the treatment that she is able to give. -[3027.48 --> 3032.54] We pray that we'll ultimately be successful and she could be restored to full health before too long. -[3032.86 --> 3038.28] We think about those in our midst and those that we know who are broken and hurting. -[3038.74 --> 3041.72] We ask that you be with them in their current situation. -[3042.50 --> 3045.52] And Father, we pray for Chris as he leads us in your word. -[3045.90 --> 3051.72] We pray that we'll seriously respond to our mission to gather, grow, and go. -[3051.72 --> 3059.52] Father, Father, we pray all these things not because we deserve it, -[3059.70 --> 3063.14] but we pray it in the name of Jesus who loved us and died for us. -[3063.90 --> 3064.14] Amen. -[3081.72 --> 3093.80] I don't know about you, but this morning before worship, -[3093.98 --> 3096.86] I had five or six different conversations with different people, -[3097.46 --> 3106.58] and every one of them was around the idea of just how busy life is right now, -[3107.58 --> 3110.46] just how hectic things can feel. -[3110.46 --> 3113.14] And so as we come to God's word, -[3113.32 --> 3118.00] I just want to take a minute and allow you to take a deep breath, -[3119.00 --> 3123.40] to hold it, and to exhale slowly, -[3124.22 --> 3128.26] and to still your heart, -[3129.66 --> 3134.64] to still your mind as we enter into the presence of God, -[3134.64 --> 3140.42] as we hear the Father speak his word of hope and love over us, -[3140.54 --> 3146.00] and as he fills us with his purpose and power, -[3146.00 --> 3154.96] in a culture that idolizes busyness, -[3154.96 --> 3158.06] slowing down, -[3158.06 --> 3160.36] stopping, -[3161.80 --> 3164.48] sabbathing in the presence of God, -[3164.96 --> 3166.72] and hearing his voice, -[3167.52 --> 3170.90] is not only counter-cultural, -[3171.72 --> 3177.26] it's not only a witness that we offer to the world of a sense of peace -[3177.26 --> 3180.68] that surpasses the chaos of life, -[3181.12 --> 3186.38] but is a chance for you to just rest. -[3186.38 --> 3193.02] And so rest in the presence and words of Jesus this morning. -[3194.06 --> 3197.70] We're going to read together from Deuteronomy 4. -[3198.46 --> 3201.12] We're going to read just a few verses, -[3201.32 --> 3202.86] verses 5 through 8. -[3202.86 --> 3207.38] As we have prayed and said already, -[3207.62 --> 3209.44] at the beginning of the ministry year, -[3209.84 --> 3217.50] we focus in and launch out of a reflection on our mission or purpose together, -[3217.66 --> 3219.72] to gather, grow, and go. -[3220.98 --> 3226.42] Last week, we focused in and looked at our shared life together. -[3227.08 --> 3231.80] This week, we will focus in and look at how our shared life -[3231.80 --> 3235.08] leads to a shared witness. -[3236.02 --> 3240.82] And we'll see that starting in Deuteronomy 4, 5 through 8. -[3240.90 --> 3242.56] And so let's read together. -[3246.56 --> 3253.28] See, I taught you decrees and laws as the Lord my God commanded me. -[3254.44 --> 3259.78] What you need to know is that Moses is standing in front of the people of Israel. -[3259.78 --> 3264.08] They have exiled out of Egypt. -[3264.28 --> 3267.02] They have wandered through the wilderness, -[3267.30 --> 3270.20] came to Sinai, received the Ten Commandments, -[3270.38 --> 3273.54] disobeyed God, and spent 40 years wandering -[3273.54 --> 3275.56] before they could enter the Promised Land. -[3275.70 --> 3282.20] And Deuteronomy is a second telling of God's word to them -[3282.20 --> 3284.80] before they enter the land. -[3285.14 --> 3289.04] In many ways, this is Moses' final message to the people. -[3289.04 --> 3291.98] Hear what the Lord has said for you, -[3292.48 --> 3295.22] that you may live well in the land he has promised. -[3296.58 --> 3301.16] See, I have taught you decrees and laws as the Lord my God commanded me, -[3301.54 --> 3304.56] so that you may follow them in the land you are entering, -[3304.78 --> 3306.12] to take possession of it. -[3307.06 --> 3308.42] Observe them carefully, -[3308.90 --> 3312.50] for this will show your wisdom and understanding to the nations, -[3312.50 --> 3315.86] who will hear about all these decrees and say, -[3315.94 --> 3320.52] surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people. -[3321.32 --> 3324.68] What other nation is so great as to have their gods near them -[3324.68 --> 3328.44] the way the Lord our God is near us whenever we pray to him? -[3328.44 --> 3333.72] And what other nation is so great as to have such righteous decrees and laws -[3333.72 --> 3338.18] as this body of laws I am setting before you today? -[3339.18 --> 3340.76] This is the word of the Lord. -[3340.76 --> 3351.12] Now, as a church, we gather here every week, -[3351.62 --> 3356.14] and we gather together in the little places throughout the week. -[3356.68 --> 3359.60] We gather together to worship God. -[3359.70 --> 3363.28] We gather together to celebrate his work in our lives. -[3363.40 --> 3368.04] We gather together as the fellowship of the Holy Spirit in our midst. -[3368.04 --> 3372.84] We gather together as brothers and sisters in Christ, -[3372.94 --> 3376.34] made so by the blood of Jesus. -[3377.92 --> 3383.04] And whether we gather around this table here in this fellowship -[3383.04 --> 3387.64] or around tables in your homes or tables in your offices -[3387.64 --> 3389.50] or wherever it is that you might be, -[3389.60 --> 3395.58] however we gather, we do so to grow in the grace and knowledge -[3395.58 --> 3397.02] of our Lord and Savior Jesus. -[3397.02 --> 3403.46] We do so in order to be grown and to bear fruit as we abide in Jesus. -[3404.58 --> 3407.16] And then, together, we go. -[3408.24 --> 3412.16] As Jesus sent the disciples, so he is sending us. -[3412.28 --> 3416.56] The church is the called-out, sent people of God. -[3416.68 --> 3421.12] We gather and grow in order to scatter and go. -[3421.12 --> 3424.90] Worship in the Word and through prayer. -[3425.10 --> 3431.96] Worship in spirit and in truth is used by God to fuel us for mission, -[3432.20 --> 3435.48] to fuel us as his sent people. -[3437.08 --> 3439.86] Last week, we looked at our shared life. -[3440.08 --> 3443.74] This week, we look at our shared witness. -[3443.74 --> 3452.76] Now, as part of this launch season that we are in the midst of, -[3453.76 --> 3462.30] this last Thursday, we hosted the first ministry and mission table here, -[3462.30 --> 3467.94] which is a gathering of all the leaders and coordinators and team captains and committee chairs. -[3467.94 --> 3473.02] The goal at that gathering is to sort of celebrate what God is doing -[3473.02 --> 3479.42] and to help equip leaders as they face challenges in our ministry and mission together, -[3479.42 --> 3483.52] as they face what it is that we're doing here in our midst, -[3483.58 --> 3486.26] as they're encouraged by God to do that work. -[3486.26 --> 3490.06] And one of the things that we talked about that evening, -[3490.38 --> 3491.60] I'm not going to recap at all, -[3491.86 --> 3495.22] is just how amazing all y'all are. -[3497.36 --> 3500.26] Did you know that in this church, -[3500.78 --> 3505.46] we have over 330 volunteer positions? -[3506.24 --> 3507.88] That's places to serve. -[3509.02 --> 3511.64] Now, that doesn't include things like night shift -[3511.64 --> 3516.08] or the mission thrift store or the food bank, right? -[3516.08 --> 3518.38] That's just sort of internal stuff. -[3518.38 --> 3520.32] And that doesn't include reactivate, -[3521.08 --> 3524.00] which would add 150 opportunities. -[3525.36 --> 3528.94] We have 330 opportunities to serve here. -[3529.22 --> 3532.96] And I'm sure that I've missed a few because some people work so well -[3532.96 --> 3538.12] and serve so quietly in their places that it goes unnoticed. -[3539.54 --> 3542.78] Did you know that we also have approximately, -[3543.50 --> 3544.56] for the same reasons, -[3544.56 --> 3550.32] approximately 144 members volunteering in these positions? -[3551.60 --> 3554.76] And that's not including the youth helpers -[3554.76 --> 3556.04] that we have in the different places. -[3558.04 --> 3559.76] And so for those of you doing the quick math, -[3559.86 --> 3563.96] that's approximately 60% of our members are active, -[3564.08 --> 3564.76] are volunteering, -[3564.96 --> 3567.00] and are serving in our church community. -[3567.58 --> 3568.82] And this is amazing. -[3568.82 --> 3574.54] Like, what you need to hear is how much higher that number is -[3574.54 --> 3579.32] than the average sort of institutional realities. -[3580.40 --> 3580.90] Right? -[3580.98 --> 3584.30] Sometimes you talk about the 80-20 split, right, -[3584.34 --> 3587.06] where 80% of the work is done by 20% of the people. -[3588.02 --> 3590.46] Now, I admit that our top 20% of volunteers -[3590.46 --> 3592.54] are incredibly high-functioning people. -[3592.54 --> 3596.94] But with 60% of you guys active in the life of this church, -[3597.04 --> 3598.60] that's something worth celebrating. -[3598.60 --> 3604.06] Also, the kinds of volunteers we have here are amazing. -[3604.20 --> 3605.78] Again, for those of you who are doing the math, -[3606.40 --> 3611.22] on average, our volunteers are doing 2.29 volunteer positions. -[3612.44 --> 3613.90] So that means you're working hard. -[3614.84 --> 3615.78] And that's awesome. -[3616.98 --> 3617.10] Right? -[3617.16 --> 3621.68] This working together is part of our shared witness, -[3622.36 --> 3623.60] part of our shared reality. -[3623.60 --> 3627.28] And to be honest, I think most of us get it. -[3628.56 --> 3628.68] Right? -[3628.78 --> 3630.56] God is calling us to serve, -[3630.78 --> 3632.08] and y'all are responding. -[3633.92 --> 3635.54] Now, what this also means, -[3636.02 --> 3639.10] remember, 330 to 144, -[3639.50 --> 3640.38] what this also means, -[3640.46 --> 3642.24] if you are a guest here, -[3642.30 --> 3644.48] or if you are looking for a place to plug in, -[3645.14 --> 3646.54] there's lots of room for you. -[3647.44 --> 3648.84] There's lots of opportunity. -[3649.80 --> 3649.94] Right? -[3649.96 --> 3651.42] If God's been laying on your heart -[3651.42 --> 3653.82] a way to participate in the life of this church, -[3653.96 --> 3657.20] to add to our shared witness together, -[3657.80 --> 3659.40] there's a chance for you to do that, -[3659.42 --> 3660.90] and there's lots of places to connect. -[3661.02 --> 3662.28] And following worship, -[3662.74 --> 3664.58] you'll see many of those places, -[3664.70 --> 3666.94] and you'll have opportunity to sign up -[3666.94 --> 3668.50] for those places to connect. -[3668.50 --> 3674.78] What I want us to see together this morning -[3674.78 --> 3678.98] comes from the theological, -[3679.54 --> 3682.00] the biblical underpinnings, -[3682.66 --> 3684.70] foundations that call us -[3684.70 --> 3688.10] to this kind of life together. -[3689.46 --> 3690.26] And so for just a moment, -[3690.42 --> 3692.90] I want to do some biblical theology with you -[3692.90 --> 3695.08] to ground us in this. -[3695.08 --> 3697.44] And so for those of you -[3697.44 --> 3699.54] who are less interested in this work, -[3699.98 --> 3701.86] just bear with me for a few minutes -[3701.86 --> 3704.28] because it will help ground us -[3704.28 --> 3706.48] and I think give us a firmer foundation -[3706.48 --> 3707.78] for what we do. -[3708.48 --> 3710.00] But here to start -[3710.00 --> 3712.08] is a theological principle -[3712.08 --> 3714.16] that applies not just to this morning -[3714.16 --> 3714.80] and to our life, -[3714.88 --> 3716.48] but to your study of the Bible. -[3717.76 --> 3717.96] Right? -[3718.00 --> 3719.78] So if you study the Bible on your own -[3719.78 --> 3720.58] or in small group, -[3720.80 --> 3721.78] remember this principle -[3721.78 --> 3723.34] and it will help make sense -[3723.34 --> 3725.06] of what you read and hear. -[3726.00 --> 3726.96] Here's the principle. -[3729.06 --> 3731.64] What was promised to Israel -[3731.64 --> 3734.72] is fulfilled in Jesus -[3734.72 --> 3738.30] and is now applied to the church. -[3740.20 --> 3740.50] Okay? -[3740.68 --> 3741.42] Let me say that again. -[3741.52 --> 3744.32] What was promised to Israel -[3744.32 --> 3746.62] is fulfilled in Jesus -[3746.62 --> 3749.20] and is now applied to the church. -[3749.20 --> 3751.52] Let me give you an example -[3751.52 --> 3752.60] of what I'm talking about here. -[3752.74 --> 3753.50] Again, we're doing the work -[3753.50 --> 3754.38] of biblical theology. -[3755.50 --> 3757.52] Hosea 11 verse 1. -[3758.42 --> 3760.54] One of the so-called minor prophets, -[3760.70 --> 3761.98] not because he was less important, -[3762.08 --> 3764.22] but because he wrote smaller books. -[3765.16 --> 3766.36] Hosea says, -[3766.62 --> 3768.30] when Israel was a child, -[3768.40 --> 3769.84] or God says through Hosea, -[3770.34 --> 3770.88] Hosea, -[3770.96 --> 3772.18] when Israel was a child, -[3772.30 --> 3773.16] I loved him -[3773.16 --> 3774.50] and out of Egypt -[3774.50 --> 3776.16] I called my son. -[3777.50 --> 3777.76] Right? -[3777.76 --> 3779.04] The prophet is saying -[3779.04 --> 3781.38] that God has called Israel -[3781.38 --> 3782.56] out of Egypt. -[3783.64 --> 3783.98] Right? -[3784.02 --> 3785.04] We've already grounded ourselves -[3785.04 --> 3785.86] in that story. -[3786.88 --> 3788.00] They were taken away. -[3788.94 --> 3790.12] They fled there -[3790.12 --> 3790.96] because of a famine. -[3791.10 --> 3792.38] They became slaves in Egypt -[3792.38 --> 3794.08] and then they were exodus. -[3795.04 --> 3797.16] They were carried out by God. -[3798.88 --> 3799.44] Then, -[3799.44 --> 3804.40] if you jump to Matthew 2 -[3804.40 --> 3806.50] verse 13 and 15, -[3806.68 --> 3807.32] and you can just write -[3807.32 --> 3808.68] Hosea 11 verse 1, -[3808.78 --> 3810.34] Matthew 2, 13 and 15 down. -[3810.44 --> 3811.16] You can see it later. -[3812.12 --> 3812.88] Matthew writes, -[3813.06 --> 3814.50] when they had gone, -[3814.66 --> 3815.64] an angel of the Lord -[3815.64 --> 3816.74] appeared to Joseph -[3816.74 --> 3817.64] in a dream. -[3818.28 --> 3819.00] The angel said, -[3819.06 --> 3819.48] get up, -[3819.62 --> 3820.58] take the child -[3820.58 --> 3821.34] and his mother -[3821.34 --> 3822.54] and escape to Egypt. -[3823.04 --> 3823.96] Stay there -[3823.96 --> 3825.30] until I tell you -[3825.30 --> 3826.42] for Herod is going -[3826.42 --> 3827.58] to search for the child -[3827.58 --> 3828.46] and to kill him. -[3828.92 --> 3829.32] So, -[3829.58 --> 3830.64] Joseph got up, -[3830.86 --> 3831.56] took the child -[3831.56 --> 3832.24] and his mother -[3832.24 --> 3833.00] during the night -[3833.00 --> 3834.48] and left for Egypt -[3834.48 --> 3835.54] where he stayed -[3835.54 --> 3837.08] until the death of Herod. -[3837.32 --> 3838.56] And then hear what Matthew writes, -[3838.98 --> 3840.70] and so was fulfilled -[3840.70 --> 3841.62] what the Lord -[3841.62 --> 3842.26] had said -[3842.26 --> 3843.02] through the prophet, -[3843.74 --> 3844.80] out of Egypt -[3844.80 --> 3846.14] I have called -[3846.14 --> 3847.28] my son. -[3848.60 --> 3849.66] What was promised -[3849.66 --> 3850.58] to Israel -[3850.58 --> 3851.84] is fulfilled -[3851.84 --> 3853.08] in Jesus -[3853.08 --> 3854.38] and now is applied -[3854.38 --> 3855.56] to the church. -[3855.76 --> 3855.82] So, -[3855.96 --> 3856.12] let's, -[3856.58 --> 3857.46] Hosea 11, -[3857.68 --> 3858.54] Matthew 2, -[3858.68 --> 3860.30] now Romans 6. -[3860.48 --> 3862.14] Romans 6 verse 6 to 9. -[3863.14 --> 3864.80] For if we have been united -[3864.80 --> 3865.46] with him -[3865.46 --> 3867.02] in a death like his, -[3867.08 --> 3867.82] we will certainly -[3867.82 --> 3869.02] also be united -[3869.02 --> 3869.60] with him -[3869.60 --> 3870.44] in a resurrection -[3870.44 --> 3871.42] like his. -[3871.74 --> 3872.66] For we know -[3872.66 --> 3873.82] that our old self -[3873.82 --> 3875.34] was crucified with him -[3875.34 --> 3876.22] so that the body -[3876.22 --> 3877.54] ruled by sin -[3877.54 --> 3878.64] might be done away with -[3878.64 --> 3879.84] that we should no longer -[3879.84 --> 3882.82] be slaves to sin. -[3883.76 --> 3884.50] Because anyone -[3884.50 --> 3885.32] who has died -[3885.32 --> 3886.52] has been set free -[3886.52 --> 3887.32] from sin. -[3887.74 --> 3887.94] Now, -[3888.00 --> 3889.16] if we died with Christ, -[3889.22 --> 3889.66] we believe -[3889.66 --> 3890.30] that we will also -[3890.30 --> 3891.26] live with him -[3891.26 --> 3892.34] for we know -[3892.34 --> 3893.28] that since Christ -[3893.28 --> 3894.46] was raised from the dead, -[3894.56 --> 3896.24] he cannot die again. -[3896.52 --> 3897.70] Death no longer -[3897.70 --> 3898.96] has mastery -[3898.96 --> 3900.48] over them. -[3901.86 --> 3902.38] So, -[3902.38 --> 3904.14] Israel was a slave -[3904.14 --> 3905.70] in Egypt -[3905.70 --> 3906.74] and they were -[3906.74 --> 3908.40] promised freedom -[3908.40 --> 3909.54] from slavery. -[3909.78 --> 3910.72] Jesus came, -[3911.06 --> 3912.00] took on the nature -[3912.00 --> 3913.16] of a slave -[3913.16 --> 3914.52] and became -[3914.52 --> 3917.12] obedient unto death -[3917.12 --> 3918.26] and has now -[3918.26 --> 3920.06] set us free -[3920.06 --> 3921.76] from being slaves -[3921.76 --> 3922.96] to sin. -[3923.90 --> 3924.72] What was promised -[3924.72 --> 3925.30] to Israel -[3925.30 --> 3926.36] is fulfilled in Jesus -[3926.36 --> 3927.32] and is now applied -[3927.32 --> 3928.72] to the life -[3928.72 --> 3929.32] of the church. -[3929.32 --> 3931.28] you can see this again -[3931.28 --> 3932.78] in Genesis 12, -[3932.98 --> 3933.14] right? -[3933.18 --> 3933.72] The promise -[3933.72 --> 3935.02] of God spoken -[3935.02 --> 3936.00] to Abraham. -[3936.40 --> 3937.14] It's the founding, -[3937.46 --> 3938.48] the first patriarch -[3938.48 --> 3939.26] of the nation -[3939.26 --> 3940.02] of Israel. -[3940.16 --> 3940.72] God says, -[3941.56 --> 3942.38] I will make you -[3942.38 --> 3943.70] into a great nation -[3943.70 --> 3944.90] and I will bless you -[3944.90 --> 3945.72] and I will make your name -[3945.72 --> 3947.08] great and you will be -[3947.08 --> 3947.84] a blessing. -[3949.14 --> 3949.96] And then, -[3950.06 --> 3951.18] in Matthew 4, -[3951.90 --> 3952.72] in the story -[3952.72 --> 3953.34] where Jesus -[3953.34 --> 3954.48] goes into the wilderness -[3954.48 --> 3955.22] to be tempted -[3955.22 --> 3956.48] by the devil, -[3956.48 --> 3957.56] there's an attempt -[3957.56 --> 3959.46] to circumvent -[3959.46 --> 3960.26] or shortcut -[3960.26 --> 3961.48] this promise. -[3961.64 --> 3962.70] The devil says, -[3962.82 --> 3963.96] the devil took Jesus -[3963.96 --> 3965.20] to a very high mountain -[3965.20 --> 3965.92] and showed him -[3965.92 --> 3966.58] all the kingdoms -[3966.58 --> 3967.18] of the world -[3967.18 --> 3968.04] and their splendor -[3968.04 --> 3968.76] and said, -[3969.12 --> 3970.50] all this I will give you -[3970.50 --> 3971.68] if you bow down -[3971.68 --> 3972.58] and worship me. -[3973.34 --> 3974.20] And Jesus said, -[3974.26 --> 3974.94] away from me, -[3974.98 --> 3975.16] Satan, -[3975.26 --> 3975.84] for it is written, -[3976.06 --> 3977.20] worship the Lord your God -[3977.20 --> 3978.94] and serve him only. -[3979.76 --> 3980.84] The devil is tempting -[3980.84 --> 3982.16] Jesus with a shortcut -[3982.16 --> 3983.46] to the fulfillment -[3983.46 --> 3984.20] of the promise -[3984.20 --> 3985.54] spoken to Israel, -[3985.54 --> 3986.14] but instead, -[3986.66 --> 3988.02] as we read in Philippians 2 -[3988.02 --> 3989.34] and I've already alluded to it, -[3990.20 --> 3990.90] Philippians 2, -[3991.12 --> 3992.08] and being found -[3992.08 --> 3993.46] in appearance as a man, -[3993.86 --> 3995.72] Jesus humbled himself -[3995.72 --> 3997.50] becoming obedient to death, -[3997.64 --> 3999.18] even death on the cross. -[3999.70 --> 4000.22] Therefore, -[4000.68 --> 4001.80] God exalted him -[4001.80 --> 4002.92] to the highest place -[4002.92 --> 4004.14] and gave him the name -[4004.14 --> 4005.34] that is above every name -[4005.34 --> 4006.80] that at the name of Jesus -[4006.80 --> 4008.10] every knee should bow -[4008.10 --> 4009.42] in heaven and on earth -[4009.42 --> 4010.54] and under the earth -[4010.54 --> 4012.58] and every tongue acknowledge -[4012.58 --> 4014.84] that Jesus Christ is Lord -[4014.84 --> 4016.68] to the glory of God, -[4017.00 --> 4017.50] the Father. -[4019.42 --> 4021.60] What was promised to Israel -[4021.60 --> 4024.58] is fulfilled in Jesus -[4024.58 --> 4027.36] and then applied to the church. -[4027.88 --> 4030.24] In Revelation 3, verse 12, -[4030.38 --> 4030.76] we read, -[4030.76 --> 4035.28] I will write the name of my God, -[4035.38 --> 4036.64] the name of my city, -[4036.72 --> 4037.46] of my God, -[4037.54 --> 4038.96] the new Jerusalem on them, -[4039.02 --> 4040.14] which is coming down -[4040.14 --> 4041.46] out of heaven from my God, -[4041.58 --> 4043.90] and I will also write on them -[4043.90 --> 4045.54] my new name. -[4046.54 --> 4047.32] And after this, -[4047.38 --> 4047.74] I looked, -[4047.80 --> 4048.62] and there before me -[4048.62 --> 4049.54] was a great multitude -[4049.54 --> 4050.66] that no one can count -[4050.66 --> 4051.54] from every nation, -[4051.96 --> 4052.28] tribe, -[4052.34 --> 4052.76] and people, -[4052.84 --> 4053.50] and language -[4053.50 --> 4055.28] standing before the throne -[4055.28 --> 4056.20] and before the Lamb, -[4056.20 --> 4057.30] and they were wearing -[4057.30 --> 4058.16] white robes -[4058.16 --> 4058.84] and were holding -[4058.84 --> 4059.70] palm branches -[4059.70 --> 4061.00] in their hands. -[4062.26 --> 4063.22] What was promised -[4063.22 --> 4064.26] to Israel -[4064.26 --> 4065.52] is fulfilled in Jesus -[4065.52 --> 4067.08] and applied to the church. -[4067.60 --> 4068.54] And you can do this -[4068.54 --> 4069.82] all throughout the Bible. -[4069.88 --> 4070.18] You can do it -[4070.18 --> 4071.42] with the temple, right? -[4071.48 --> 4072.52] The Garden of Eden -[4072.52 --> 4073.36] was a temple. -[4073.52 --> 4073.96] The people -[4073.96 --> 4075.10] had a tabernacle -[4075.10 --> 4075.80] and a temple -[4075.80 --> 4076.76] where God dwelled -[4076.76 --> 4077.46] among them. -[4077.78 --> 4079.00] And then Jesus says, -[4079.12 --> 4080.26] destroy this temple -[4080.26 --> 4081.76] and I will rebuild it. -[4082.34 --> 4083.12] John tells us -[4083.12 --> 4084.16] that Jesus was referring -[4084.16 --> 4084.82] to the temple -[4084.82 --> 4085.86] of His body -[4085.86 --> 4086.58] because Jesus -[4086.58 --> 4087.80] is the place -[4087.80 --> 4088.90] where God dwells -[4088.90 --> 4089.70] with His people. -[4090.20 --> 4091.24] John 1, 14, -[4091.36 --> 4092.46] the Word became flesh -[4092.46 --> 4093.34] and made His dwelling -[4093.34 --> 4094.12] among us. -[4094.96 --> 4096.46] And then Paul writes, -[4097.36 --> 4098.44] do you not know -[4098.44 --> 4099.94] that your bodies -[4099.94 --> 4101.56] are a temple -[4101.56 --> 4102.90] of the Holy Spirit -[4102.90 --> 4104.26] who is in you, -[4104.56 --> 4105.38] whom you have received -[4105.38 --> 4106.00] from God? -[4106.26 --> 4107.94] You are not your own. -[4109.22 --> 4109.94] You see it -[4109.94 --> 4111.08] over and over again. -[4111.18 --> 4111.80] What is promised -[4111.80 --> 4112.44] to Israel -[4112.44 --> 4113.16] is fulfilled -[4113.16 --> 4113.98] in Jesus -[4113.98 --> 4114.58] and is now -[4114.58 --> 4115.56] applied to the church. -[4115.66 --> 4117.10] And if you take -[4117.10 --> 4117.96] this principle, -[4118.22 --> 4119.14] this principle -[4119.14 --> 4120.08] for interpretation, -[4121.00 --> 4122.40] you will get -[4122.40 --> 4123.42] so much more -[4123.42 --> 4125.06] out of your Bible study -[4125.06 --> 4126.14] and so much more -[4126.14 --> 4127.60] out of the questions -[4127.60 --> 4128.24] you have -[4128.24 --> 4129.18] for certain texts -[4129.18 --> 4129.92] and how they might -[4129.92 --> 4131.50] apply to your life. -[4132.34 --> 4133.48] What was promised -[4133.48 --> 4134.48] to Israel -[4134.48 --> 4135.20] is fulfilled -[4135.20 --> 4135.82] in Jesus -[4135.82 --> 4136.88] and now applied -[4136.88 --> 4138.20] to the church. -[4138.62 --> 4139.16] And so, -[4139.30 --> 4140.04] of course, -[4140.60 --> 4142.04] the same is true -[4142.04 --> 4144.42] for Deuteronomy 4 -[4144.42 --> 4146.14] verses 5 through 8 -[4146.14 --> 4147.36] for the text -[4147.36 --> 4147.98] that we read -[4147.98 --> 4149.28] this morning. -[4150.32 --> 4151.38] The idea here -[4151.38 --> 4152.54] is that the people's -[4152.54 --> 4153.06] obedience, -[4153.56 --> 4155.20] their beautiful life -[4155.20 --> 4155.76] together, -[4155.76 --> 4157.90] is supposed to reveal -[4157.90 --> 4158.82] God's presence -[4158.82 --> 4159.60] among them. -[4159.78 --> 4160.92] It's supposed to be -[4160.92 --> 4161.56] magnetic -[4161.56 --> 4163.10] in order to draw -[4163.10 --> 4163.94] other nations -[4163.94 --> 4164.62] to God. -[4164.62 --> 4164.66] God. -[4166.30 --> 4167.86] And in the same way, -[4168.12 --> 4169.18] Jesus' obedience, -[4169.46 --> 4170.72] His perfect life, -[4170.90 --> 4171.72] reveals God's -[4171.72 --> 4172.86] perfect righteousness. -[4173.14 --> 4173.72] And there's something -[4173.72 --> 4175.40] beautiful and compelling -[4175.40 --> 4177.02] about Jesus' obedience -[4177.02 --> 4178.24] as you read the Gospels. -[4178.50 --> 4178.98] There's something -[4178.98 --> 4180.28] magnetic about Him -[4180.28 --> 4182.12] that draws people -[4182.12 --> 4183.14] to Himself, -[4183.56 --> 4184.10] which is, -[4184.20 --> 4184.58] of course, -[4184.66 --> 4185.24] we believe, -[4185.32 --> 4186.94] a drawing to God. -[4188.18 --> 4189.06] And then the same -[4189.06 --> 4190.86] is true for us, -[4190.98 --> 4191.70] for the church, -[4191.90 --> 4193.36] not only globally -[4193.36 --> 4194.24] and historically, -[4194.40 --> 4196.50] but here at Langley-Emmanuel, -[4196.64 --> 4198.04] right in our midst, -[4198.14 --> 4199.18] our obedience, -[4199.42 --> 4201.62] our shared life together, -[4202.24 --> 4203.70] hopefully beautiful, -[4204.96 --> 4205.62] but beauty -[4205.62 --> 4208.02] and scars together, -[4208.86 --> 4210.66] reveals the presence -[4210.66 --> 4212.62] of God among us. -[4213.06 --> 4214.94] It reveals His kingdom come -[4214.94 --> 4216.16] and His kingdom coming -[4216.16 --> 4217.46] in our hearts -[4217.46 --> 4218.42] and in our lives. -[4218.90 --> 4220.36] And there's something, -[4220.64 --> 4221.20] Lord willing, -[4221.44 --> 4222.36] there's something -[4222.36 --> 4224.02] magnetic about that -[4224.02 --> 4225.86] that draws other people -[4225.86 --> 4227.36] to encounter God, -[4227.46 --> 4228.48] to encounter Jesus, -[4229.14 --> 4230.82] to encounter God -[4230.82 --> 4232.30] at work in the world -[4232.30 --> 4234.50] through us, -[4235.20 --> 4235.80] His church. -[4237.40 --> 4237.76] And again, -[4237.84 --> 4238.40] look carefully -[4238.40 --> 4240.04] at what Moses says -[4240.04 --> 4240.76] to the people -[4240.76 --> 4241.64] in our text. -[4241.64 --> 4242.38] He says, -[4243.38 --> 4244.64] observe them carefully, -[4244.76 --> 4245.60] that is the commands -[4245.60 --> 4246.12] and the laws -[4246.12 --> 4247.52] that I have given you. -[4247.96 --> 4249.00] Observe them carefully, -[4249.20 --> 4250.24] for this will show -[4250.24 --> 4251.02] your wisdom -[4251.02 --> 4251.78] and understanding -[4251.78 --> 4252.46] to the nations -[4252.46 --> 4253.78] who will hear about -[4253.78 --> 4254.62] all these decrees -[4254.62 --> 4255.16] and say, -[4255.40 --> 4257.98] surely this is a great nation -[4257.98 --> 4258.84] or this great nation -[4258.84 --> 4259.48] is wise -[4259.48 --> 4261.08] and understanding people. -[4263.08 --> 4265.24] By her contrast, -[4266.84 --> 4269.34] by her life -[4269.34 --> 4270.90] standing apart -[4270.90 --> 4272.28] from the other nations, -[4272.96 --> 4274.26] Israel is supposed -[4274.26 --> 4276.42] to lead by example -[4276.42 --> 4279.60] and in so doing -[4279.60 --> 4281.44] draw others -[4281.44 --> 4282.72] to the truth -[4282.72 --> 4283.74] of who God is -[4283.74 --> 4284.40] and His plan -[4284.40 --> 4285.18] and purpose -[4285.18 --> 4286.06] for how to live -[4286.06 --> 4286.52] in the world. -[4287.82 --> 4288.12] And so, -[4288.24 --> 4288.70] for example, -[4289.50 --> 4291.36] in a time of history -[4291.36 --> 4292.42] and a part -[4292.42 --> 4294.96] of the history -[4294.96 --> 4295.96] of civilization -[4295.96 --> 4298.02] where child sacrifice -[4298.02 --> 4299.14] is common, -[4300.38 --> 4302.08] Israel is commanded -[4302.08 --> 4303.50] in Leviticus 18, -[4304.28 --> 4305.12] do not give -[4305.12 --> 4306.28] any of your children -[4306.28 --> 4307.40] to be sacrificed -[4307.40 --> 4308.28] to Molech -[4308.28 --> 4309.48] for you must not -[4309.48 --> 4310.40] profane the name -[4310.40 --> 4311.06] of your God. -[4311.44 --> 4312.52] I am the Lord. -[4313.52 --> 4313.88] Now, -[4313.94 --> 4314.74] notice carefully, -[4315.12 --> 4315.26] right, -[4315.30 --> 4315.94] that there is -[4315.94 --> 4317.10] a straight line -[4317.10 --> 4318.50] between protecting -[4318.50 --> 4319.18] children -[4319.18 --> 4320.48] and honoring -[4320.48 --> 4321.40] the name of God. -[4322.96 --> 4323.18] Right, -[4323.24 --> 4324.36] God has a special -[4324.36 --> 4325.56] place in His heart -[4325.56 --> 4326.56] for children. -[4327.68 --> 4328.24] And Jesus -[4328.24 --> 4329.52] says the same thing. -[4329.62 --> 4330.32] Jesus says -[4330.32 --> 4331.22] in Matthew 19, -[4331.22 --> 4332.90] let the little children -[4332.90 --> 4333.72] come to me -[4333.72 --> 4335.18] and do not hinder them -[4335.18 --> 4335.76] for the kingdom -[4335.76 --> 4336.70] of heaven belongs -[4336.70 --> 4338.00] to such as these. -[4338.08 --> 4338.92] Or in Matthew 18, -[4339.02 --> 4339.44] He says, -[4340.00 --> 4341.36] rather explicitly, -[4341.78 --> 4343.06] if anyone causes -[4343.06 --> 4344.46] one of these little ones, -[4344.60 --> 4345.40] those who believe -[4345.40 --> 4345.80] in me, -[4345.92 --> 4346.56] to stumble, -[4347.04 --> 4347.80] it would be better -[4347.80 --> 4348.56] for them to have -[4348.56 --> 4349.60] a large millstone -[4349.60 --> 4350.56] hung around their neck -[4350.56 --> 4351.76] and to be drowned -[4351.76 --> 4352.76] in the depths -[4352.76 --> 4353.60] of the sea. -[4357.18 --> 4358.10] It was promised -[4358.10 --> 4358.62] to Israel, -[4359.02 --> 4359.76] it was fulfilled -[4359.76 --> 4360.26] in Jesus -[4360.26 --> 4361.28] and applies -[4361.28 --> 4361.84] to the church. -[4362.16 --> 4362.44] Peter, -[4362.64 --> 4364.20] in his Acts 2 sermon -[4364.20 --> 4365.48] on the day of Pentecost, -[4365.58 --> 4365.92] says, -[4366.98 --> 4367.54] in Acts 2, -[4367.58 --> 4368.14] verse 39, -[4368.30 --> 4369.44] the promise is for you -[4369.44 --> 4370.96] and for your children, -[4371.14 --> 4372.62] for all who are far off, -[4372.64 --> 4373.42] for all whom -[4373.42 --> 4374.46] the Lord our God -[4374.46 --> 4375.26] will call. -[4376.34 --> 4376.62] Now, -[4376.66 --> 4377.48] this truth, -[4377.62 --> 4377.88] right, -[4377.96 --> 4379.68] that God is passionate -[4379.68 --> 4381.12] for children -[4381.12 --> 4382.42] is part of why -[4382.42 --> 4383.42] the Christian church -[4383.42 --> 4384.46] through millennia -[4384.46 --> 4386.10] has baptized infants. -[4386.10 --> 4389.12] but also, -[4389.98 --> 4390.26] right, -[4390.32 --> 4391.76] in this same time frame, -[4392.16 --> 4393.92] in the early church -[4393.92 --> 4395.92] during the Roman period, -[4396.04 --> 4397.54] the Roman Empire period, -[4397.78 --> 4399.70] there's a cultural practice -[4399.70 --> 4401.38] of infanticide -[4401.38 --> 4402.92] or of infant exposure. -[4403.98 --> 4404.44] That is, -[4404.54 --> 4405.46] in Roman culture, -[4405.60 --> 4406.68] it was very common -[4406.68 --> 4408.88] for unwanted children, -[4409.24 --> 4409.90] and honestly, -[4410.06 --> 4411.08] usually it was girls, -[4411.94 --> 4412.18] right, -[4412.20 --> 4413.14] who were born to people -[4413.14 --> 4413.94] that didn't want them -[4413.94 --> 4415.18] to be taken outside -[4415.18 --> 4416.08] the city walls -[4416.08 --> 4416.98] and to be left -[4416.98 --> 4417.76] on a garbage heap -[4417.76 --> 4419.80] and then just walked away. -[4420.92 --> 4422.48] This act of infant exposure -[4422.48 --> 4423.46] is common, -[4423.78 --> 4424.56] it is accepted, -[4424.78 --> 4425.72] and it is normalized -[4425.72 --> 4427.22] in the Roman world. -[4428.48 --> 4429.90] In the early church, -[4430.46 --> 4431.94] the Christians refused -[4431.94 --> 4433.40] to let that stand, -[4434.24 --> 4436.02] refused to let that happen. -[4436.80 --> 4436.96] Now, -[4436.98 --> 4437.60] sometimes, -[4437.88 --> 4438.82] slavers would go -[4438.82 --> 4439.82] to those garbage heaps -[4439.82 --> 4441.34] and they would take the kids -[4441.34 --> 4442.86] and then they would raise -[4442.86 --> 4443.92] those kids as slaves -[4443.92 --> 4445.64] usually in some form -[4445.64 --> 4446.18] of trafficking. -[4447.64 --> 4448.58] But also, -[4448.92 --> 4450.24] early Christian families -[4450.24 --> 4450.98] would go out -[4450.98 --> 4451.76] to these places -[4451.76 --> 4452.78] and they would collect -[4452.78 --> 4453.32] these children -[4453.32 --> 4454.38] and they would raise them -[4454.38 --> 4455.48] as their own. -[4456.00 --> 4457.04] And there are so many -[4457.04 --> 4458.16] amazing stories -[4458.16 --> 4459.32] from the early church -[4459.32 --> 4460.80] of these children -[4460.80 --> 4461.94] who were gathered -[4461.94 --> 4463.46] from the exposure piles -[4463.46 --> 4464.52] who grow up -[4464.52 --> 4465.42] and become leaders. -[4465.96 --> 4466.88] One becomes a bishop -[4466.88 --> 4468.20] in the early church. -[4470.14 --> 4471.96] The church even started -[4471.96 --> 4473.14] writing letters -[4473.14 --> 4474.00] to the emperor -[4474.00 --> 4476.12] to stop the practice. -[4478.34 --> 4478.82] Now, -[4478.86 --> 4479.64] let me be clear -[4479.64 --> 4480.64] that this work -[4480.64 --> 4481.88] continues today, -[4482.00 --> 4482.28] right, -[4482.34 --> 4483.56] as children -[4483.56 --> 4484.84] are being sacrificed -[4484.84 --> 4485.68] to all sorts -[4485.68 --> 4486.62] of different molex -[4486.62 --> 4487.38] in the world -[4487.38 --> 4488.22] that we live in. -[4489.28 --> 4490.74] The work of pro-life, -[4490.88 --> 4492.26] of protecting children -[4492.26 --> 4493.24] in trafficking, -[4493.68 --> 4495.46] the work of protecting -[4495.46 --> 4497.26] the least -[4497.26 --> 4498.30] and the smallest -[4498.30 --> 4499.04] among us -[4499.04 --> 4500.48] continues as part -[4500.48 --> 4501.72] of our shared -[4501.72 --> 4503.48] responsibility together. -[4504.62 --> 4505.14] But again, -[4505.20 --> 4506.12] we can keep going here -[4506.12 --> 4506.88] because you trace -[4506.88 --> 4508.24] the same for laws -[4508.24 --> 4508.92] in Israel -[4508.92 --> 4509.90] around refugees -[4509.90 --> 4511.00] or strangers -[4511.00 --> 4511.82] or aliens, -[4512.38 --> 4512.50] right? -[4512.52 --> 4513.16] You can even make -[4513.16 --> 4513.98] the case for the -[4513.98 --> 4514.96] dietary laws -[4514.96 --> 4515.58] that were given -[4515.58 --> 4516.52] to the people -[4516.52 --> 4517.38] as a reflection -[4517.38 --> 4518.48] of some sort of wisdom -[4518.48 --> 4519.56] to protect them -[4519.56 --> 4521.10] from certain diseases. -[4522.88 --> 4524.10] This is the point -[4524.10 --> 4525.28] that is going on -[4525.28 --> 4525.90] and it continues -[4525.90 --> 4526.36] for Moses -[4526.36 --> 4527.06] in our text -[4527.06 --> 4528.44] where he says, -[4529.16 --> 4530.12] what other nation -[4530.12 --> 4531.04] is so great -[4531.04 --> 4532.28] as to have their gods -[4532.28 --> 4533.18] near them -[4533.18 --> 4534.52] the way the Lord -[4534.52 --> 4535.34] our God -[4535.34 --> 4536.24] is near us -[4536.24 --> 4537.82] when we pray to Him? -[4538.86 --> 4539.30] Again, -[4539.40 --> 4539.80] remember -[4539.80 --> 4541.24] the principle here, -[4541.32 --> 4541.50] right, -[4541.56 --> 4542.88] that their beautiful -[4542.88 --> 4543.78] life together -[4543.78 --> 4545.40] is supposed to reveal -[4545.40 --> 4546.26] God's presence -[4546.26 --> 4546.84] among them, -[4546.90 --> 4548.16] supposed to be magnetic -[4548.16 --> 4549.22] in order to draw -[4549.22 --> 4550.16] the other nations -[4550.16 --> 4551.22] to God. -[4552.80 --> 4553.92] And God's presence -[4553.92 --> 4556.10] is especially clear -[4556.10 --> 4557.34] when He answers -[4557.34 --> 4558.10] their prayers. -[4559.54 --> 4560.60] Exodus 6, -[4560.78 --> 4561.42] verse 5, -[4561.84 --> 4562.38] God says, -[4562.50 --> 4563.14] I have heard -[4563.14 --> 4563.82] the groaning -[4563.82 --> 4564.78] of the Israelites -[4564.78 --> 4566.04] whom the Egyptians -[4566.04 --> 4566.94] are enslaving -[4566.94 --> 4568.06] and I have remembered -[4568.06 --> 4569.24] my covenant. -[4570.00 --> 4571.10] Isaiah 38, -[4571.20 --> 4571.78] verse 5, -[4571.90 --> 4572.96] I have heard -[4572.96 --> 4573.74] your prayers -[4573.74 --> 4574.72] and seen -[4574.72 --> 4576.48] your tears. -[4580.12 --> 4581.02] I don't know -[4581.02 --> 4582.58] where every one of you -[4582.58 --> 4583.40] is at right now, -[4583.40 --> 4585.76] but I am confident -[4585.76 --> 4587.02] that we all need -[4587.02 --> 4588.36] to know a God -[4588.36 --> 4589.68] who hears our prayers -[4589.68 --> 4592.38] and sees our tears. -[4593.72 --> 4595.84] That's who this God is. -[4596.00 --> 4596.10] He, -[4596.42 --> 4597.48] in Proverbs 15, -[4597.54 --> 4597.88] 29, -[4598.08 --> 4599.18] hears the prayer -[4599.18 --> 4600.58] of the righteous. -[4601.12 --> 4602.16] Or James 5, -[4602.22 --> 4602.96] into the New Testament -[4602.96 --> 4603.50] community, -[4603.86 --> 4604.44] James 5, -[4604.50 --> 4604.92] 15, -[4605.02 --> 4605.38] promises, -[4605.56 --> 4606.30] the prayer offered -[4606.30 --> 4606.78] in faith -[4606.78 --> 4607.90] will make the sick -[4607.90 --> 4608.58] person well -[4608.58 --> 4609.26] and the Lord -[4609.26 --> 4611.44] will raise them up. -[4613.04 --> 4613.42] Now, -[4613.48 --> 4614.14] I will be the first -[4614.14 --> 4614.90] to say that sometimes -[4614.90 --> 4615.48] our prayers -[4615.48 --> 4616.44] don't get answered -[4616.44 --> 4616.96] in the way -[4616.96 --> 4617.70] that we think -[4617.70 --> 4618.70] they should be. -[4619.64 --> 4620.02] And sometimes -[4620.02 --> 4621.02] we pray for healing -[4621.02 --> 4621.54] and healing -[4621.54 --> 4622.28] doesn't come -[4622.28 --> 4622.80] in the way -[4622.80 --> 4624.40] that we expect it to. -[4626.30 --> 4627.96] But it is still true -[4627.96 --> 4629.24] that when healing -[4629.24 --> 4630.02] does come -[4630.02 --> 4630.72] and the saints -[4630.72 --> 4631.46] have prayed, -[4631.66 --> 4632.26] it's because -[4632.26 --> 4633.16] the saints have prayed. -[4634.22 --> 4635.12] That when healing -[4635.12 --> 4635.94] does come -[4635.94 --> 4636.72] and the elders -[4636.72 --> 4637.36] have been called -[4637.36 --> 4638.02] and the person's -[4638.02 --> 4638.46] been anointed -[4638.46 --> 4639.02] with oil -[4639.02 --> 4639.80] and prayed over -[4639.80 --> 4641.26] like we're commanded to, -[4641.46 --> 4642.26] that it comes -[4642.26 --> 4642.98] because the elders -[4642.98 --> 4643.62] have been called -[4643.62 --> 4644.30] and the person -[4644.30 --> 4644.90] has been anointed -[4644.90 --> 4645.78] with oil. -[4649.50 --> 4652.26] Our shared witness -[4652.26 --> 4655.38] is magnified -[4655.38 --> 4657.16] when we, -[4657.74 --> 4658.82] on our knees, -[4659.04 --> 4660.62] cry out to the Lord -[4660.62 --> 4664.44] and then see Him work -[4664.44 --> 4666.78] and then declare -[4666.78 --> 4667.72] to the world -[4667.72 --> 4668.66] that we have seen -[4668.66 --> 4669.66] Him work -[4669.66 --> 4670.68] when we proclaim -[4670.68 --> 4671.72] with boldness -[4671.72 --> 4673.06] that God has heard -[4673.06 --> 4673.92] and answered -[4673.92 --> 4675.66] the cries of my heart. -[4677.50 --> 4678.60] But also, -[4678.86 --> 4680.32] our witness to the world -[4680.32 --> 4681.72] is exemplified, -[4682.14 --> 4684.16] is made magnetic -[4684.16 --> 4685.24] and compelling -[4685.24 --> 4687.14] when we offer up -[4687.14 --> 4688.68] these cries of our heart -[4688.68 --> 4689.78] and instead of getting -[4689.78 --> 4690.74] the answer we want, -[4690.88 --> 4692.68] God changes our heart -[4692.68 --> 4695.20] to give us the answer -[4695.20 --> 4697.82] of His heart. -[4701.06 --> 4703.24] Shared life together -[4703.24 --> 4706.32] is our shared witness -[4706.32 --> 4707.42] to the world. -[4708.12 --> 4709.74] You have stories -[4709.74 --> 4711.04] of God at work. -[4711.78 --> 4712.58] You do -[4712.58 --> 4713.52] because I have the privilege -[4713.52 --> 4714.92] to hear many of them. -[4715.92 --> 4717.56] But that's our witness. -[4717.70 --> 4718.94] That's your witness. -[4718.94 --> 4722.16] Mark Glanville -[4722.16 --> 4724.66] in his book -[4724.66 --> 4725.64] Improvising Church, -[4725.76 --> 4726.30] he says, -[4726.66 --> 4729.22] by their beautiful life, -[4729.58 --> 4730.44] ancient Israel -[4730.44 --> 4732.04] was supposed to be magnetic -[4732.04 --> 4734.06] and the nations would come -[4734.06 --> 4736.50] to Yahweh their God. -[4738.50 --> 4739.66] We gather, -[4739.98 --> 4740.24] grow, -[4740.40 --> 4741.20] and go -[4741.20 --> 4741.98] here -[4741.98 --> 4743.38] and out there -[4743.38 --> 4745.58] in order that -[4745.58 --> 4747.76] our witness -[4747.76 --> 4749.74] might be used of God -[4749.74 --> 4751.14] to reveal Him -[4751.14 --> 4752.58] to the world, -[4752.64 --> 4753.58] might be used of God -[4753.58 --> 4754.78] to draw others -[4754.78 --> 4756.04] to Him. -[4756.12 --> 4758.20] And that can only happen -[4758.20 --> 4761.38] if you are going -[4761.38 --> 4762.24] to places -[4762.24 --> 4765.88] where the acknowledgement -[4765.88 --> 4766.50] of God -[4766.50 --> 4768.10] is not happening. -[4769.50 --> 4770.74] If you are going -[4770.74 --> 4771.40] to places -[4771.40 --> 4771.68] places -[4771.68 --> 4773.80] where God -[4773.80 --> 4774.76] has been pushed -[4774.76 --> 4775.42] out of -[4775.42 --> 4776.30] the conversation. -[4779.04 --> 4779.74] That's how -[4779.74 --> 4780.50] our shared life -[4780.50 --> 4780.98] turns into -[4780.98 --> 4781.62] shared witness -[4781.62 --> 4782.46] because we are -[4782.46 --> 4783.94] in these places. -[4785.94 --> 4786.46] Again, -[4786.74 --> 4787.68] Mark writes, -[4788.50 --> 4788.82] he says, -[4788.90 --> 4789.48] let's not pray -[4789.48 --> 4790.62] for a large church, -[4791.54 --> 4792.30] let's pray -[4792.30 --> 4793.52] for a faithful church, -[4794.24 --> 4795.42] whether large -[4795.42 --> 4795.96] or small. -[4796.96 --> 4797.42] He says, -[4797.50 --> 4797.84] let's pray -[4797.84 --> 4798.42] for a church -[4798.42 --> 4799.02] that displays -[4799.02 --> 4799.66] the tenderness -[4799.66 --> 4800.22] of Christ -[4800.22 --> 4801.02] in the neighborhood -[4801.02 --> 4801.64] you love, -[4801.72 --> 4802.50] wherever that happens -[4802.50 --> 4802.92] to be. -[4803.64 --> 4804.90] Beautiful lives -[4804.90 --> 4806.92] raising curiosity, -[4807.32 --> 4808.38] stirring questions -[4808.38 --> 4809.34] about what -[4809.34 --> 4810.56] is behind it all. -[4813.08 --> 4813.68] This -[4813.68 --> 4815.20] is the task -[4815.20 --> 4816.62] of the church. -[4817.12 --> 4817.74] What was promised -[4817.74 --> 4818.30] to Israel -[4818.30 --> 4818.92] and fulfilled -[4818.92 --> 4819.36] in Jesus -[4819.36 --> 4820.32] is now applied -[4820.32 --> 4821.92] to us. -[4823.12 --> 4824.12] And it has always -[4824.12 --> 4824.70] been so, -[4824.76 --> 4825.38] and it has always -[4825.38 --> 4826.68] been compelling. -[4826.88 --> 4827.54] This is part -[4827.54 --> 4828.20] of what it means -[4828.20 --> 4829.00] when Jesus says -[4829.00 --> 4829.52] that we are -[4829.52 --> 4830.32] to be salt -[4830.32 --> 4831.26] and light -[4831.26 --> 4832.14] in the world. -[4833.82 --> 4834.56] Last week, -[4834.62 --> 4835.24] I made reference -[4835.24 --> 4837.24] to a letter -[4837.24 --> 4837.80] that was written -[4837.80 --> 4838.96] in the second century, -[4839.62 --> 4841.44] the epistle -[4841.44 --> 4843.00] to Diognetus. -[4843.46 --> 4844.46] In that letter, -[4844.62 --> 4845.52] we read, -[4846.38 --> 4847.54] to sum it all up -[4847.54 --> 4848.46] in one word, -[4848.96 --> 4849.76] what the soul -[4849.76 --> 4850.92] is to the body, -[4851.44 --> 4852.34] Christians are -[4852.34 --> 4853.42] in the world. -[4853.42 --> 4853.48] world. -[4855.70 --> 4856.92] Our task -[4856.92 --> 4858.38] is to bring -[4858.38 --> 4859.26] a sense -[4859.26 --> 4860.12] of life -[4860.12 --> 4861.66] to this world -[4861.66 --> 4863.26] that because of sin -[4863.26 --> 4864.48] is currently -[4864.48 --> 4865.14] lifeless. -[4866.22 --> 4867.48] A sense of soul -[4867.48 --> 4868.66] and beauty -[4868.66 --> 4870.16] and magnetism -[4870.16 --> 4871.28] that is so compelling -[4871.28 --> 4873.30] that even dead -[4873.30 --> 4874.64] hearts are raised -[4874.64 --> 4875.82] up in response -[4875.82 --> 4876.52] to the grace -[4876.52 --> 4877.78] of our good God. -[4877.78 --> 4881.24] Israel's obedience -[4881.24 --> 4881.80] was meant -[4881.80 --> 4882.84] to reveal God -[4882.84 --> 4883.84] in the midst -[4883.84 --> 4884.86] of their life -[4884.86 --> 4885.52] and to draw -[4885.52 --> 4886.84] others to Him. -[4887.68 --> 4888.92] Jesus' obedience -[4888.92 --> 4889.90] reveals God -[4889.90 --> 4890.58] and He makes -[4890.58 --> 4891.96] salvation possible. -[4892.38 --> 4893.20] That's what it means -[4893.20 --> 4894.10] that Jesus lived -[4894.10 --> 4895.28] the life I should have lived -[4895.28 --> 4896.22] and died the death -[4896.22 --> 4897.20] that I deserved. -[4897.78 --> 4898.62] That even though -[4898.62 --> 4899.82] He was perfect -[4899.82 --> 4900.50] and innocent, -[4900.72 --> 4901.28] He died -[4901.28 --> 4902.68] a sinner's death, -[4902.78 --> 4903.94] a cursed death -[4903.94 --> 4904.52] for you, -[4904.76 --> 4905.32] for me, -[4905.46 --> 4906.60] in our place, -[4906.60 --> 4907.98] hanging on that tree -[4907.98 --> 4909.30] so that we might -[4909.30 --> 4910.70] be raised with Him -[4910.70 --> 4912.12] into newness -[4912.12 --> 4913.20] of life. -[4913.32 --> 4913.86] And now, -[4913.94 --> 4915.02] our new life, -[4915.14 --> 4916.08] our obedience, -[4916.28 --> 4917.10] which is made possible -[4917.10 --> 4918.24] only by Him -[4918.24 --> 4919.00] and His Spirit, -[4919.66 --> 4920.60] our obedience -[4920.60 --> 4922.66] is to tell -[4922.66 --> 4924.66] of the kingdom come -[4924.66 --> 4926.12] and the kingdom coming. -[4926.70 --> 4929.38] This is our shared witness. -[4930.94 --> 4931.64] And in a world -[4931.64 --> 4932.76] that sometimes feels -[4932.76 --> 4933.70] like it has lost -[4933.70 --> 4934.40] its soul, -[4935.30 --> 4936.28] the foolishness -[4936.28 --> 4937.10] of the gospel -[4937.10 --> 4937.94] is compelling. -[4939.36 --> 4940.22] In a world -[4940.22 --> 4941.14] that sometimes feels -[4941.14 --> 4941.96] like it has lost -[4941.96 --> 4942.68] its mooring, -[4943.08 --> 4944.02] the rootedness -[4944.02 --> 4944.88] of the Bible -[4944.88 --> 4947.28] is grounding -[4947.28 --> 4948.74] for life -[4948.74 --> 4950.02] and for purpose. -[4953.24 --> 4956.06] As we go, -[4956.06 --> 4960.70] as we grow -[4960.70 --> 4962.72] and as we gather, -[4963.16 --> 4963.98] we do so -[4963.98 --> 4965.10] from here -[4965.10 --> 4967.34] but also -[4967.34 --> 4968.90] out there, -[4969.20 --> 4969.96] also from -[4969.96 --> 4970.96] wherever the here's -[4970.96 --> 4972.96] are in your life. -[4973.36 --> 4974.10] And so last week, -[4974.16 --> 4974.70] if you were here, -[4974.80 --> 4975.74] you heard me announce, -[4976.20 --> 4977.76] if you received -[4977.76 --> 4978.34] the bulletin, -[4978.40 --> 4978.96] the e-bulletin, -[4979.08 --> 4980.28] you will have read this -[4980.28 --> 4980.80] hopefully -[4980.80 --> 4981.92] or seen it online -[4981.92 --> 4982.54] this week. -[4982.54 --> 4984.34] we are launching -[4984.34 --> 4985.88] as part of this season -[4985.88 --> 4987.60] an art project, -[4987.70 --> 4989.12] a community art project -[4989.12 --> 4990.72] where we are asking you -[4990.72 --> 4992.06] to submit photos -[4992.06 --> 4993.86] of the places you love, -[4993.94 --> 4994.86] the places where you -[4994.86 --> 4996.72] spend your days -[4996.72 --> 4997.86] or your nights, -[4998.00 --> 4998.78] the places where you -[4998.78 --> 4999.60] hang out together -[4999.60 --> 5000.20] with people. -[5000.48 --> 5001.88] It could be a swimming pool -[5001.88 --> 5002.90] or an ice rink. -[5003.30 --> 5005.12] It can be the park bench -[5005.12 --> 5006.20] where you play chess. -[5006.78 --> 5008.66] It can be where you go to work -[5008.66 --> 5010.34] if that's what you truly love -[5010.34 --> 5011.68] and find joy in -[5011.68 --> 5012.78] because these places -[5012.78 --> 5014.96] are your mission field. -[5015.12 --> 5015.96] These are the places -[5015.96 --> 5016.78] that you are called -[5016.78 --> 5017.28] to gather, -[5017.50 --> 5017.70] grow, -[5017.82 --> 5019.48] and go here. -[5020.56 --> 5021.24] And so submit -[5021.24 --> 5023.44] to the office, -[5023.56 --> 5024.30] to communications -[5024.30 --> 5026.08] at licrc.ca -[5026.08 --> 5027.18] a photo -[5027.18 --> 5029.28] of these places -[5029.28 --> 5030.86] and then we will create -[5030.86 --> 5032.64] or the liturgical arts team -[5032.64 --> 5033.36] will create -[5033.36 --> 5034.34] a piece -[5034.34 --> 5035.26] on the back there -[5035.26 --> 5036.72] that calls us -[5036.72 --> 5037.44] to remember -[5037.44 --> 5038.84] each time we go out -[5038.84 --> 5040.34] that we gather, -[5040.68 --> 5040.92] grow, -[5041.06 --> 5042.26] and go here. -[5042.72 --> 5043.90] Not just in this space -[5043.90 --> 5044.72] but in all of those -[5044.72 --> 5045.64] other little places -[5045.64 --> 5046.64] as well. -[5047.18 --> 5047.94] That's where God -[5047.94 --> 5049.64] has called us to. -[5050.40 --> 5050.90] And so if you -[5050.90 --> 5052.08] email those -[5052.08 --> 5053.86] to Maria -[5053.86 --> 5054.54] in the office, -[5054.66 --> 5055.22] communications -[5055.22 --> 5056.70] at licrc.ca -[5056.70 --> 5057.48] or text them -[5057.48 --> 5058.48] to me -[5058.48 --> 5059.14] or to Kevin, -[5059.26 --> 5059.70] we'll make sure -[5059.70 --> 5060.38] that they get there. -[5060.80 --> 5061.76] We've received some -[5061.76 --> 5062.48] already this week -[5062.48 --> 5063.14] and for those of you -[5063.14 --> 5063.74] who have sent some, -[5063.84 --> 5064.22] thank you. -[5064.56 --> 5065.42] Keep that coming -[5065.42 --> 5066.96] so we can get that going -[5066.96 --> 5068.06] and so that we can -[5068.06 --> 5069.00] throughout the year -[5069.00 --> 5069.92] be reminded -[5069.92 --> 5072.40] that this is -[5072.40 --> 5074.32] why we gather. -[5074.82 --> 5075.48] This is -[5075.48 --> 5077.12] why we grow -[5077.12 --> 5078.04] and this is -[5078.04 --> 5079.86] why we go. -[5081.80 --> 5083.38] That what we do -[5083.38 --> 5084.20] here, -[5086.80 --> 5088.26] that our obedience -[5088.26 --> 5089.76] to Jesus -[5089.76 --> 5091.28] in this life, -[5091.44 --> 5091.88] that our -[5091.88 --> 5093.62] beautiful life -[5093.62 --> 5094.14] together, -[5094.36 --> 5095.30] our shared -[5095.30 --> 5096.26] witness, -[5096.66 --> 5097.98] reveals God's -[5097.98 --> 5098.80] presence -[5098.80 --> 5100.16] among us -[5100.16 --> 5102.38] and draws -[5102.38 --> 5102.96] others -[5102.96 --> 5104.14] to Him. -[5105.24 --> 5106.42] This is -[5106.42 --> 5107.70] why we -[5107.70 --> 5108.62] exist -[5108.62 --> 5110.64] because that -[5110.64 --> 5111.48] is who -[5111.48 --> 5112.24] God -[5112.24 --> 5113.02] is. -[5113.94 --> 5114.70] And so we go -[5114.70 --> 5115.04] with Him. -[5115.54 --> 5115.76] Amen? -[5116.76 --> 5117.84] Let's pray together. -[5121.84 --> 5122.92] Lord our God, -[5123.86 --> 5124.40] holy, -[5124.40 --> 5125.72] heavenly Father, -[5125.72 --> 5125.74] heavenly Father, -[5126.74 --> 5127.52] as we begin -[5127.52 --> 5128.40] this year, -[5128.90 --> 5130.16] we do so -[5130.16 --> 5131.40] in the power -[5131.40 --> 5132.02] of Your name, -[5133.00 --> 5134.00] in the hope -[5134.00 --> 5134.82] of Your promise, -[5135.52 --> 5136.52] in the truth -[5136.52 --> 5137.20] of its being -[5137.20 --> 5138.24] fulfilled in Jesus, -[5138.84 --> 5139.70] and the mission -[5139.70 --> 5140.70] now being applied -[5140.70 --> 5141.26] to us -[5141.26 --> 5142.24] as a church. -[5143.40 --> 5144.22] We go, -[5144.38 --> 5144.76] Lord God, -[5145.16 --> 5145.76] in the power -[5145.76 --> 5146.62] of Your Spirit -[5146.62 --> 5148.00] into these next -[5148.00 --> 5149.04] days and weeks, -[5149.40 --> 5150.58] whatever it is -[5150.58 --> 5151.66] that we may face. -[5151.66 --> 5153.40] we go trusting -[5153.40 --> 5153.98] that You -[5153.98 --> 5155.00] hear our prayers, -[5155.12 --> 5155.60] that You hear -[5155.60 --> 5156.16] the cries -[5156.16 --> 5157.02] of our heart. -[5157.10 --> 5157.84] We go trusting -[5157.84 --> 5158.48] that You -[5158.48 --> 5159.76] are with us -[5159.76 --> 5160.82] never to leave us -[5160.82 --> 5161.84] nor forsake us, -[5161.98 --> 5163.02] that with You -[5163.02 --> 5163.90] we can be -[5163.90 --> 5165.18] strong and -[5165.18 --> 5165.80] courageous -[5165.80 --> 5166.72] because You -[5166.72 --> 5167.64] have overcome -[5167.64 --> 5168.26] the world, -[5168.34 --> 5169.06] and as You say -[5169.06 --> 5170.12] in the revelations, -[5170.12 --> 5171.28] You have made -[5171.28 --> 5172.26] us an -[5172.26 --> 5173.08] overcomer. -[5173.08 --> 5175.80] And so now, -[5176.04 --> 5176.52] Lord God, -[5176.58 --> 5178.66] we go in confidence, -[5179.58 --> 5181.70] following Your lead, -[5182.80 --> 5184.86] following after You, -[5185.70 --> 5186.66] that in our -[5186.66 --> 5188.34] following after You, -[5189.10 --> 5190.12] others, too, -[5190.26 --> 5191.60] might be gathered up -[5191.60 --> 5193.28] to see the beauty -[5193.28 --> 5194.64] of Your gospel, -[5194.82 --> 5196.00] to see the beauty -[5196.00 --> 5197.50] of our shared life -[5197.50 --> 5197.92] together, -[5197.92 --> 5199.32] and to receive -[5199.32 --> 5200.28] the beauty -[5200.28 --> 5202.10] of Your grace. -[5203.08 --> 5204.30] In Jesus' name -[5204.30 --> 5204.78] we pray, -[5205.46 --> 5206.06] and all God's people -[5206.06 --> 5206.36] said, -[5207.32 --> 5207.64] Amen. -[5207.64 --> 5217.18] Please stand as we sing. -[5217.18 --> 5219.90] Where you go, I'll go, -[5219.90 --> 5222.52] Where you stay, I'll stay, -[5222.52 --> 5224.52] When you do, I'll go, -[5224.52 --> 5225.52] I'll go, -[5225.52 --> 5226.52] I'll go, -[5226.52 --> 5227.52] I'll go, -[5227.52 --> 5228.52] where you stay, I'll stay, -[5228.52 --> 5231.52] When you do, I'll go, -[5231.52 --> 5233.52] I'll go, -[5233.52 --> 5234.52] I'll go, -[5234.52 --> 5235.52] where you stay, I'll stay, -[5235.52 --> 5236.62] When you do, I'll go, -[5236.62 --> 5237.52] I'll go, -[5237.52 --> 5238.52] I'll go, -[5238.52 --> 5239.40] I'll go, -[5239.40 --> 5247.40] I'll go, -[5247.62 --> 5248.40] Where you go, -[5248.40 --> 5249.40] Where you go, I'll go, -[5249.40 --> 5250.38] I'll go, -[5250.38 --> 5251.40] I'll go, -[5251.40 --> 5253.40] Oh -[5281.40 --> 5283.40] Oh -[5311.40 --> 5313.40] Oh -[5341.40 --> 5343.40] Oh -[5371.40 --> 5375.32] Oh -[5375.32 --> 5389.32] is -[5391.00 --> 5403.32] i will follow where you go i'll go where you stay i'll stay when you move i'll move i will follow -[5405.32 --> 5410.20] how you serve i'll serve in this life i will -[5410.20 --> 5420.28] i will follow where you go i'll go where you stay i'll stay when you move i will -[5420.28 --> 5429.80] i will follow who you have i'll know how you serve i'll serve in this life i will -[5429.80 --> 5434.68] i will follow you -[5434.68 --> 5438.68] i will follow you -[5438.68 --> 5440.68] yeah -[5440.68 --> 5444.68] i will follow you -[5444.68 --> 5448.68] i will follow you -[5448.68 --> 5452.68] yeah -[5452.68 --> 5471.56] as you go into this week know that god goes with you and so receive his blessing for the -[5471.56 --> 5476.84] journey ahead go also with an invitation and reminder to stick around for the ministry and -[5476.84 --> 5481.80] mission fair to check out where you might be able to plug in and connect or where you might -[5481.80 --> 5491.00] sign up to join a group or to participate in a ministry as well if you are looking to -[5491.00 --> 5496.36] connect with someone for prayer following worship together there will be someone here at the front -[5496.36 --> 5503.08] wearing a name tag with the yellow block on it their prayer partner they're more than happy to -[5503.08 --> 5508.20] pray with you or for you over you however you need to be met by god they will do that -[5508.20 --> 5514.68] here after service together and then lastly go with an invitation again to join us tonight -[5514.68 --> 5524.04] 6 p.m for sing a new song go with the blessing of god god go before you to lead you god go behind -[5524.04 --> 5530.76] you to protect you god go beneath you to support you and may god go beside you to befriend you -[5530.76 --> 5539.72] do not be afraid let the blessing of god come upon you today do not be afraid but go in peace to love -[5539.72 --> 5551.72] and serve the lord amen -[5554.04 --> 5576.76] this is my only effort in my life -[5576.76 --> 5579.10] will it be -[5590.84 --> 5593.44] the sea -[5593.44 --> 5595.88] time -[5595.88 --> 5622.12] I am not my own, but beyond, crying and soaring in the eyes, and His name to the Lord, Christ my Lord. -[5622.12 --> 5640.56] You preserved my life in such a way that I was born, and I am every fall that I am a servant too, even when I'm blessed with creation. -[5640.56 --> 5650.56] You all can turn together when the hell breaks down, I am your son. -[5650.56 --> 5652.56] You all can turn together when the hell breaks down, I am every fall that I am a servant too, even when I'm blessed with creation. -[5652.56 --> 5656.56] You all can turn together when the hell breaks down, I am every fall that I am a servant too, even when I'm blessed with creation. -[5656.56 --> 5662.56] You all can turn together when the hell breaks down, I am every fall that I am a servant too, even when I'm blessed with creation. -[5662.56 --> 5668.56] You all can turn together when the hell breaks down, I am every fall that I am a servant too, even when I'm blessed with creation. -[5668.56 --> 5680.56] you all can turn together when the hell breaks down, I am beneficiario, even when it's rare for graphics in the world. -[5680.56 --> 5684.56] You try to get a했다 that you can turn together.... -[5684.56 --> 5703.26] Always by your holy spirit you assure me -[5703.26 --> 5709.26] I'll return your life and leave me willing and ready -[5709.26 --> 5714.52] Even when I can't see my way through -[5714.52 --> 5719.22] From now on to always -[5719.22 --> 5728.54] I am not my home -[5728.54 --> 5734.78] I belong on you and so -[5734.78 --> 5741.04] In my life and in my life -[5741.04 --> 5747.04] To you Lord, my Lord -[5747.04 --> 5753.52] I am not my own -[5753.52 --> 5760.04] But belong, body and soul -[5760.04 --> 5766.30] In my life and in death -[5766.30 --> 5774.30] To you Lord, Christ my Lord -[5774.30 --> 5778.56] I am not my own -[5778.56 --> 5784.56] I belong, body and soul -[5784.56 --> 5790.56] In my life and in death -[5790.56 --> 5796.56] To you Lord, Christ my Lord -[5796.56 --> 5802.90] And you already -[5802.90 --> 5805.82] In your life and in death -[5805.82 --> 5806.66] I am not my own -[5806.66 --> 5810.82] I am not my own -[5810.82 --> 5840.80] Thank you. -[5840.82 --> 5870.80] Thank you. -[5870.82 --> 5900.80] Thank you. -[5900.82 --> 5918.60] Thank you. -[5918.60 --> 5948.58] Thank you. -[5948.60 --> 5978.58] Thank you. -[5978.60 --> 6008.58] Thank you. -[6008.60 --> 6038.58] Thank you. -[6038.60 --> 6068.58] Thank you. -[6068.60 --> 6098.58] Thank you. -[6098.60 --> 6128.58] Thank you. -[6128.60 --> 6158.58] Thank you. -[6158.60 --> 6188.58] Thank you. -[6188.60 --> 6218.58] Thank you. -[6218.60 --> 6248.58] Thank you. -[6248.60 --> 6278.58] Thank you. -[6278.60 --> 6308.58] Thank you. -[6308.60 --> 6338.58] Thank you. -[6338.60 --> 6368.58] Thank you. -[6368.60 --> 6398.58] Thank you. -[6398.60 --> 6428.58] Thank you. -[6428.58 --> 6458.56] Thank you. -[6458.58 --> 6488.56] Thank you. -[6488.58 --> 6518.56] Thank you. -[6518.58 --> 6548.56] Thank you. -[6548.58 --> 6578.56] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 25, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 25, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 05cf5774c85a3c919cc5629b22d159198f44e1de..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 25, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,67 +0,0 @@ -• Death and resurrection of Jesus -• Joy in the presence of God -• Worship of a powerful and victorious God -• Forgiveness and redemption through God's love -• Overcoming darkness and unbelief with faith and praise -• Announcements for new ministries starting this year -• Children's Worship Time begins next week, still seeking teachers -• Gems and Cadets programs start soon, youth parents meeting on Tuesday night -• Youth coffee on Sunday, upcoming event at Berkham passes on Friday night -• Safe Church meeting on October 3rd is mandatory for certain church members -• New chapel or worship session at Sunridge Gardens starts this Saturday -• Congregational meeting next Sunday to discuss young adult ministry and new position -• The splendor of God and His majesty -• Darkness trying to be light -• God's greatness and power -• The Godhead: Father, Spirit, Son -• Jesus as the Lion and Lamb -• God's name above all names -• Worshiping and singing about God's greatness -• Living in God's holy presence -• Being desperate for God and needing His presence -• Praying for forgiveness and restoration -• Praising God's holiness and majesty -• Inviting people to worship and behold God -• Recognizing God's power and glory -• Expressing gratitude for salvation through Jesus Christ -• Interceding for healing, love, and a revival -• Giving thanks during worship service -• Request to support a ministry assisting those with homelessness -• Scriptural references to generosity and honoring one's maker -• Personal testimony of reliance on God and salvation -• Reflection on the transition into fall at church and activities for children -• Congregational prayer led by an elder, expressing gratitude for creation and blessings -• Prayer for congregation's needs and blessings -• Acknowledgment of brokenness in the world (natural disasters, wars) -• Request for support and comfort for those affected by loss and suffering -• Gratitude for church community's service and volunteer efforts -• Prayers for young adult ministry and preaching the word -• Mission statement discussion: "gather, grow, go" -• Bible text from Matthew 5, verses 38-48 (Jesus' teachings on loving enemies and serving others) -• The speaker reflects on their experience during the COVID-19 pandemic in May 2020 -• A church member surprises them with a gift basket and card from six couples, boosting their morale -• Jesus' teachings on "an eye for an eye" are discussed in relation to the Old Testament context -• The Pharisees were misinterpreting the law, using it as a basis for personal revenge rather than a guide for judges -• Jesus changes the audience for his teachings from judges to those who have been wronged, emphasizing compassion and forgiveness -• Jesus teaches that when wronged, one should not seek revenge but instead seek peace and act righteously. -• He gives three examples: turning the other cheek in physical altercations, not responding to violence with violence; cutting losses and giving up possessions rather than seeking to steal them back; and going above and beyond in helping others with their needs. -• Jesus teaches that one should be meek, holy, righteous, and selfless, and live by doing good for all people rather than just avoiding harm. -• He emphasizes the importance of loving one's enemies and praying for those who persecute them. -• Loving those who love you isn't a high bar -• Jesus calls for loving and praying for enemies -• Who are our enemies as Christians? -• Creating enemies through cultural polarization and lies -• Fighting online instead of discussing with tact and love -• The internet's algorithms can create echo chambers that reinforce our existing views and lead to polarization. -• Confirmation bias and the other side being perceived as an enemy are consequences of this phenomenon. -• The culture has become intolerant of differences, viewing debates and disagreements as assaults on self-sovereignty. -• Polarization creates fake enemies and prevents meaningful listening to opposing viewpoints. -• Jesus' command to love one's enemies is relevant in countering polarization, and his example should be followed. -• The goal is to go above and beyond for others, not just physically, but also through acts of service and generosity. -• Following Jesus' example of selfless love for enemies -• Importance of living a posture of love, not vengefulness -• Calling to go above and beyond for others -• Prayer for guidance in loving enemies and escaping harm when necessary -• Going in the name of God, serving and loving people -• Song lyrics referencing servanthood, friendship, and prayer -• References to biblical figures (Elijah, Moses, Ezekiel, David) and themes of salvation and harvest \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 25, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 25, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 440ddb413739977890a336ea14303ce209c9a2cf..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 25, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,827 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 3.00] Where you lost your life, so... -[4.68 --> 10.40] Every part designed in the work of art called love -[10.40 --> 19.00] If you gladly chose surrender, so will I -[19.00 --> 24.56] I can see your heart, it fill you in a different way -[24.56 --> 32.92] Every precious one, a child you died to save -[32.92 --> 39.68] If you gave your life to love them so loud -[39.68 --> 48.28] Like you would again a hundred billion times -[48.28 --> 55.28] But what measure could amount to your desire -[55.28 --> 62.28] You're the one who never leaves the one behind -[62.28 --> 76.40] I raise a hallelujah -[76.40 --> 82.36] In the presence of my enemies -[82.36 --> 88.12] I raise a hallelujah -[88.12 --> 94.60] Louder than the unbelief -[94.60 --> 99.82] I raise a hallelujah -[99.82 --> 105.36] My weapon is a melody -[105.36 --> 112.36] I raise a hallelujah -[112.36 --> 117.36] Heaven comes to fight for me -[117.36 --> 122.36] I'm gonna sing -[122.36 --> 125.36] In the middle of the storm -[125.36 --> 128.36] Louder and louder -[128.36 --> 131.36] You're gonna hear my praising roar -[131.36 --> 134.36] Up from the ashes -[134.36 --> 137.36] Hope will arise -[137.36 --> 140.36] Death is defeated -[140.36 --> 146.36] The king is alive -[146.36 --> 147.36] I raise a hallelujah -[147.36 --> 151.36] I raise a hallelujah -[151.36 --> 156.36] I raise a hallelujah -[156.36 --> 161.36] With everything inside of me -[161.36 --> 167.36] I raise a hallelujah -[167.36 --> 173.36] I will watch the darkness flee -[173.36 --> 174.36] I raise a hallelujah -[174.36 --> 176.36] I raise a hallelujah -[176.36 --> 180.36] I raise a hallelujah -[180.36 --> 184.36] In the middle of the mystery -[184.36 --> 186.36] I raise a hallelujah -[186.36 --> 188.36] I raise a hallelujah -[188.36 --> 190.36] I feel you lost your hold on me -[190.36 --> 192.36] I'm gonna sing -[192.36 --> 195.36] I feel you lost your hold on me -[195.36 --> 197.36] I'm gonna sing -[197.36 --> 199.36] In the middle of the storm -[199.36 --> 201.36] I'm gonna sing -[201.36 --> 203.36] In the middle of the storm -[203.36 --> 205.36] Louder and louder -[205.36 --> 207.36] You're gonna hear my praising roar -[207.36 --> 209.36] Up from the ashes -[209.36 --> 210.36] Hope will arise -[210.36 --> 211.36] Hope will arise -[211.36 --> 212.36] Death is defeated -[212.36 --> 214.36] The king is alive -[214.36 --> 215.36] Sing a little louder -[215.36 --> 217.36] In the presence of my enemies -[217.36 --> 218.36] Sing a little louder -[218.36 --> 219.36] Louder than the unbelievers -[219.36 --> 220.36] Sing a little louder -[220.36 --> 221.36] My weapon is a melody -[221.36 --> 222.36] Sing a little louder -[222.36 --> 226.36] Heaven comes to fight for me -[226.36 --> 227.36] I'm gonna sing -[227.36 --> 228.36] My weapon is a melody -[228.36 --> 229.36] Sing a little louder -[229.36 --> 231.36] The king is alive -[231.36 --> 232.36] The king is alive -[232.36 --> 234.36] Sing a little louder -[234.36 --> 237.70] Louder than the unbelief -[237.70 --> 239.42] Sing a little louder -[239.42 --> 243.16] My weapon is a melody -[243.16 --> 245.36] Sing a little louder -[245.36 --> 249.32] Heaven comes to fight for me -[249.32 --> 251.06] Sing a little louder -[251.06 --> 255.28] In the presence of my enemies -[255.28 --> 256.88] Sing a little louder -[256.88 --> 261.12] Louder than the unbelief -[261.12 --> 262.68] Sing a little louder -[262.68 --> 266.50] My weapon is a melody -[266.50 --> 268.88] Sing a little louder -[268.88 --> 272.96] Heaven comes to fight for me -[272.96 --> 274.62] Sing a little louder -[274.62 --> 280.68] I'm gonna sing in the middle of a storm -[280.68 --> 283.70] Louder and louder -[283.70 --> 287.02] You're gonna hear my praises roar -[287.02 --> 289.94] Up from the ashes -[289.94 --> 292.66] Hope will arise -[292.66 --> 295.40] Death is defeated -[295.40 --> 298.22] The king is alive -[298.22 --> 304.62] Aleans Monique -[304.84 --> 307.60] Love you -[307.60 --> 309.04] Ann欸 -[309.04 --> 310.88] Es dreaming -[313.10 --> 314.16] Tningen -[314.16 --> 342.94] We worship the God who was, we worship the God who is, we worship the God who evermore -[342.94 --> 354.70] will be. He opened the prison door, he parted the raging sea, my God, he holds the victory. -[357.12 --> 368.38] There's joy in the house of the Lord, there's joy in the house of the Lord today. And we won't be quiet, we shout out your praise. -[368.38 --> 379.74] There's joy in the house of the Lord, our God is surely in this place. And we won't be quiet, we shout out your praise. -[379.74 --> 399.74] We sing to the God who heals, we sing to the God who saves, we sing to the God who always makes a way. -[399.74 --> 411.74] Cause he hung up on that cross, then he rose up from that grave. My God's still rolling stones away. -[412.74 --> 423.74] There's joy in the house of the Lord, there's joy in the house of the Lord today. And we won't be quiet, we shout out your praise. -[423.74 --> 435.68] There's joy in the house of the Lord, our God is surely in this place. And we won't be quiet, we shout out your praise. -[435.68 --> 437.68] We were the beggars. -[437.68 --> 450.68] We were the beggars, now we're royalty. We were the prisoners, now we're running free. -[450.68 --> 457.68] We are forgiven, we are forgiven. We are forgiven. We are forgiven, we're forgiven. We are forgiven, we are forgiven, we are forgiven, we are forgiven, we are forgiven. -[457.68 --> 472.68] Let the house of the Lord sing praise. Cause we were the beggars, now we're royalty. We were the prisoners, now we're running free. -[480.68 --> 490.68] We are forgiven, we are forgiven, we are forgiven. We are forgiven, we are forgiven, we are forgiven. -[490.68 --> 494.68] Well, there it is. Good morning everyone. -[494.68 --> 495.68] Morning. -[495.68 --> 498.68] Hey, we did it. We made it through the first few seconds. -[498.68 --> 503.68] I've got a couple of announcements this morning. My name's Kevin Lobert, I'm the youth pastor here. -[503.68 --> 508.68] I've got a few announcements about ministries starting off this ministry year. -[508.68 --> 514.68] The first is for children's worship time. Children's worship time will be starting in full next week. -[514.68 --> 519.68] So now that we've got our coordinators, we're up and rolling. We're still looking for a couple more teachers though. -[519.68 --> 524.68] One to teach the preschool aged kids and one to teach either K to four. -[524.68 --> 530.68] So if that's something that you're interested in doing, please chat with myself or with Amy Hubert or Marlene Bilinga. -[530.68 --> 533.68] That would be wonderful. We're still looking for those two as well. -[533.68 --> 538.68] So that will get going though again. Children's worship time will start in full next week, Sunday. -[538.68 --> 542.68] Gems and Cadets is going to get rolling again too. Cadets starts this week Thursday. -[542.68 --> 547.68] Gems starts next week Thursday. I know emails and stuff have either gone out or are coming out. -[547.68 --> 550.68] So keep your eyes on that if you're Gems or Cadets. -[550.68 --> 554.68] Youth is also starting this week. There's a parents meeting on Tuesday night. -[554.68 --> 559.68] And then youth, we actually have an event that you haven't heard of yet that I will be emailing about this coming week on Friday night. -[559.68 --> 562.68] We'll be meeting at the Berkham passes Friday night. -[562.68 --> 564.68] And then we have youth coffee on Sunday as well. -[564.68 --> 568.68] So a big youth week this week. Parents, I hope to see you Tuesday night. -[568.68 --> 570.68] And then youth this weekend coming up. -[570.68 --> 574.68] And finally, we have another safe church meeting next week Monday. -[574.68 --> 576.68] So that's October the 3rd. -[576.68 --> 581.68] That's for anyone in this church, especially if you are working with youth or vulnerable or children. -[581.68 --> 587.68] Please do. If you didn't go out last week, you are required to come out on October 3rd. -[587.68 --> 589.68] So please sign up with the office for that event. -[589.68 --> 591.68] We hope to see you there as well. -[591.68 --> 593.68] A couple more quick ones. -[593.68 --> 601.68] The first is we are starting to lead a sort of a, we'll call them a chapel or a worship session at Sunridge Gardens. -[601.68 --> 603.68] And that starts this coming Saturday. -[603.68 --> 607.68] So if you're interested in joining that, Leslie Cool is heading there. -[607.68 --> 608.68] There she is. -[608.68 --> 612.68] You can chat with Leslie or you can just come to Sunridge Gardens next week. -[612.68 --> 615.68] This coming, sorry, Saturday at 2 p.m. -[615.68 --> 619.68] We're hoping to sing some songs with the people who live there, which would be great. -[619.68 --> 629.68] And finally, in one week, next week Sunday, there will be a congregational meeting after the service to discuss the young adult ministry and a new young adult ministry position. -[629.68 --> 630.68] So that's coming out. -[630.68 --> 632.68] A packet was emailed out to you. -[632.68 --> 638.68] So please check that over in your emails and come to Church Ready next week to discuss that after the service. -[638.68 --> 641.68] That's all the announcements I've got for you this morning. -[641.68 --> 645.68] But now I would love to invite you to please stand and hear God's greeting this morning. -[645.68 --> 655.68] God's greeting this morning comes from Revelation 1. -[655.68 --> 670.68] Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come and from the seven spirits that are before his throne and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead and the ruler of the kings of the earth. -[670.68 --> 673.68] And all God's people said, amen. -[673.68 --> 676.68] Please take this time to greet and say hello to those around you. -[676.68 --> 680.68] Let's start reading early. -[680.68 --> 681.68] In Exodus chapter 15. -[681.68 --> 682.68] We're greeting. -[682.68 --> 683.68] We're greeting. -[683.68 --> 684.68] Tell me to go. -[684.68 --> 685.68] Let's read first. -[685.68 --> 686.68] We'll try. -[686.68 --> 687.68] Take two. -[687.68 --> 690.68] This greeting part is renewed and new. -[690.68 --> 691.68] I know. -[691.68 --> 692.68] Which is great. -[692.68 --> 693.68] All right. -[693.68 --> 695.68] Good morning, everybody. -[695.68 --> 696.68] I'm ready to go. -[696.68 --> 697.68] I'm ready to go. -[697.68 --> 698.68] We're greeting. -[698.68 --> 699.68] We're greeting. -[699.68 --> 700.68] We're greeting. -[700.68 --> 701.68] We're greeting. -[701.68 --> 702.68] We're greeting. -[702.68 --> 703.68] We're greeting. -[703.68 --> 704.68] We're greeting. -[704.68 --> 705.68] We're greeting. -[705.68 --> 706.68] We're greeting. -[706.68 --> 709.68] In Exodus chapter 15. -[709.68 --> 710.68] We read. -[710.68 --> 713.68] I will sing to the Lord for he is highly exalted. -[713.68 --> 716.68] The Lord is my strength and my defense. -[716.68 --> 718.68] He has become my salvation. -[718.68 --> 722.68] He is my God and I will praise him. -[722.68 --> 725.68] Who among the gods is like you, Lord? -[725.68 --> 727.68] Who is like you? -[727.68 --> 729.68] Majestic in holiness. -[729.68 --> 731.68] Awesome in glory. -[731.68 --> 732.68] Working wonders. -[732.68 --> 735.68] Let's worship our good and great God together. -[735.68 --> 736.68] The splendor of the King. -[736.68 --> 737.68] Clothed in majesty. -[737.68 --> 738.68] Let all the earth rejoice. -[738.68 --> 739.68] All the earth rejoice. -[739.68 --> 740.68] He wraps himself in light. -[740.68 --> 741.68] And darkness tries to be the light. -[741.68 --> 742.68] He wraps himself in light. -[742.68 --> 743.68] And darkness tries to be the light. -[743.68 --> 745.68] The splendor of the King. -[745.68 --> 747.68] The splendor of the King. -[747.68 --> 749.68] The splendor of the King. -[749.68 --> 750.68] Clothed in majesty. -[750.68 --> 752.68] Let all the earth rejoice. -[752.68 --> 753.68] The splendor of the King. -[753.68 --> 754.68] Let all the earth rejoice. -[754.68 --> 755.68] Let all the earth rejoice. -[755.68 --> 757.68] Let all the earth rejoice. -[757.68 --> 759.68] All the earth rejoice. -[759.68 --> 763.68] He wraps himself in light. -[763.68 --> 770.68] And darkness tries to hide. -[770.68 --> 773.68] And trembles at his voice. -[773.68 --> 778.68] And trembles at his voice. -[778.68 --> 782.68] How great is our God. -[782.68 --> 789.68] Sing with me how great is our God. -[789.68 --> 793.68] And all will see how great. -[793.68 --> 799.68] How great is our God. -[799.68 --> 808.68] From age to age he stands. -[808.68 --> 813.68] And time is in his hands. -[813.68 --> 816.68] Beginning and the end. -[816.68 --> 819.68] Beginning and the end. -[819.68 --> 826.68] The Godhead three in one. -[826.68 --> 830.68] Father, Spirit, Son. -[830.68 --> 833.68] The Lion and the Lamb. -[833.68 --> 837.68] The Lion and the Lamb. -[837.68 --> 842.68] How great is our God. -[842.68 --> 848.68] Sing with me how great is our God. -[848.68 --> 852.68] And all will see how great. -[852.68 --> 858.68] How great is our God. -[858.68 --> 863.68] Name above all names. -[863.68 --> 869.68] Worthy of all praise. -[869.68 --> 874.68] My heart will sing. -[874.68 --> 875.68] How great is our God. -[875.68 --> 876.68] My heart will sing. -[876.68 --> 877.68] How great is our God. -[877.68 --> 878.68] My heart will sing. -[878.68 --> 879.68] How great is our God. -[879.68 --> 884.68] How great is our God. -[884.68 --> 888.68] Name above all names. -[888.68 --> 889.68] Worthy of all praise. -[889.68 --> 897.04] Worthy of all praise -[897.04 --> 900.58] My heart will sing -[900.58 --> 906.98] How great is our God -[906.98 --> 914.66] How great is our God -[914.66 --> 920.84] Sing with me how great is our God -[920.84 --> 924.80] And all will see how great -[924.80 --> 930.14] How great is our God -[944.66 --> 974.64] This is the air I breathe -[974.64 --> 980.82] This is the air I breathe -[980.82 --> 985.64] Your holy presence -[985.64 --> 992.64] Living in me -[992.64 --> 998.82] This is my daily bread -[998.82 --> 1005.64] This is my daily bread -[1005.64 --> 1011.82] Your very word -[1011.82 --> 1018.00] Spoken to me -[1018.00 --> 1020.82] And I -[1020.82 --> 1027.82] I'm desperate for you -[1027.82 --> 1034.00] And I -[1034.00 --> 1039.82] I'm lost without you -[1039.82 --> 1049.82] This is the air I breathe -[1049.82 --> 1057.82] This is the air I breathe -[1057.82 --> 1061.82] Your holy presence -[1061.82 --> 1068.00] Living in me -[1068.00 --> 1074.82] This is my daily bread -[1074.82 --> 1080.82] This is my daily bread -[1080.82 --> 1087.00] Your very word -[1087.00 --> 1093.18] Spoken to me -[1093.18 --> 1097.00] And I -[1097.00 --> 1104.00] I'm desperate for you -[1104.00 --> 1109.00] And I -[1109.00 --> 1115.00] I'm desperate for you -[1115.00 --> 1122.00] And I -[1122.00 --> 1129.00] I'm desperate for you -[1129.00 --> 1134.00] And I -[1134.00 --> 1135.00] I'm desperate for you -[1135.00 --> 1137.00] And I -[1137.00 --> 1139.00] I'm desperate for you -[1139.00 --> 1141.00] And I -[1141.00 --> 1143.00] I'm lost without you -[1143.00 --> 1149.00] You -[1149.00 --> 1151.46] You are the air I breathe -[1151.46 --> 1158.00] You are the air I breathe -[1158.00 --> 1163.42] You may be seated -[1163.42 --> 1169.26] In our -[1169.26 --> 1171.68] Time of confession and insurance -[1171.68 --> 1172.34] This morning -[1172.34 --> 1173.74] We draw on -[1173.74 --> 1175.54] The mystery of our faith -[1175.54 --> 1177.10] And God's love for us -[1177.10 --> 1178.56] That cannot be undone -[1178.56 --> 1179.34] By our sin -[1179.34 --> 1182.24] We trust in God's mercy -[1182.24 --> 1183.06] And grace -[1183.06 --> 1184.84] As we come to him now -[1184.84 --> 1186.06] In a few moments -[1186.06 --> 1187.24] Of silent prayer -[1187.24 --> 1188.04] And confession -[1188.04 --> 1189.42] Please pray with me -[1189.42 --> 1219.40] You are the air I breathe -[1219.40 --> 1234.74] Holy Lord, God of life, hear our prayer. -[1236.38 --> 1240.02] Forgive us when we follow the paths that lead us away from you. -[1241.38 --> 1244.88] Forgive us when we forget that you offer us life, -[1245.16 --> 1247.22] life that is abundant and eternal, -[1247.22 --> 1250.72] life that began at the creation of all things. -[1251.70 --> 1254.42] Forgive us and turn our hearts to you. -[1256.26 --> 1260.70] May your love and grace flow over us and through us -[1260.70 --> 1263.68] as we strive to be your hands and feet in this world. -[1264.68 --> 1267.76] Help us to be your willing servants as we serve others. -[1269.02 --> 1272.98] We pray this in the name of Jesus and for his sake. Amen. -[1277.22 --> 1291.22] Who else commands all the hosts of heaven? -[1291.22 --> 1304.02] Who else commands all the hosts of heaven? -[1305.24 --> 1310.14] Who else can make every king bow down? -[1310.14 --> 1316.98] Who else can whisper and darkness trembles? -[1316.98 --> 1322.00] Only a holy God -[1322.00 --> 1328.76] What other beauty demands such praises? -[1330.38 --> 1335.10] What other splendor outshines the sun? -[1335.10 --> 1340.42] What other majesty rules with justice? -[1341.78 --> 1346.82] Only a holy God -[1346.82 --> 1353.30] Come and behold him -[1353.30 --> 1357.84] The one and the only -[1357.84 --> 1362.40] Cry out, sing holy -[1362.40 --> 1366.84] Forever a holy God -[1366.84 --> 1371.50] Come and worship the holy God -[1371.50 --> 1386.52] What other glory consumes like fire? -[1386.52 --> 1393.00] What other power can raise the dead? -[1393.00 --> 1398.20] What other name remains undefeated? -[1398.20 --> 1404.68] Only a holy God -[1404.68 --> 1411.16] Come and behold him -[1411.16 --> 1417.64] The one and the only -[1417.64 --> 1419.64] Cry out, sing holy -[1419.64 --> 1424.12] Forever a holy God -[1424.12 --> 1426.12] Come and behold him -[1426.12 --> 1429.12] Come and worship the holy God -[1429.12 --> 1433.12] Come and behold him -[1433.12 --> 1435.12] Come and behold him -[1435.12 --> 1436.12] Come and behold him -[1436.12 --> 1439.60] The one and the only -[1439.60 --> 1441.60] And the only -[1441.60 --> 1442.60] And the only -[1442.60 --> 1446.08] Cry out, sing holy -[1446.08 --> 1448.08] God -[1448.08 --> 1449.52] Come and behold him -[1449.56 --> 1451.02] And he of the trust essa -[1451.02 --> 1452.36] The one and the only -[1452.36 --> 1452.80] Come and Lord -[1452.80 --> 1453.56] For holy God -[1453.56 --> 1454.68] Come and behold him -[1454.68 --> 1454.82] Come and behold him -[1454.82 --> 1455.08] Come and behold him -[1455.08 --> 1481.22] Who else could rescue me from my failing? -[1481.22 --> 1487.22] Who else would offer his only Son? -[1487.22 --> 1493.22] Who else invites me to call him Father? -[1493.22 --> 1504.22] Only a holy God, only my holy God. -[1504.22 --> 1515.22] Come and behold him, the one and the only. -[1515.22 --> 1524.22] Cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[1524.22 --> 1531.22] Then worship a holy God. -[1531.22 --> 1539.22] Come and behold him, the one and the only. -[1539.22 --> 1550.22] Cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[1550.22 --> 1554.22] Come and worship a holy God. -[1554.22 --> 1560.22] Come and worship a holy God. -[1560.22 --> 1575.22] You need to stand for this one. -[1575.22 --> 1581.22] You gotta stand up for this one. -[1581.22 --> 1604.22] I see the King of glory -[1604.22 --> 1609.22] coming on the clouds with fire. -[1609.22 --> 1617.22] The whole earth shakes, the whole earth shakes. -[1617.22 --> 1623.22] I see his love and mercy -[1623.22 --> 1628.22] washing over all our sin. -[1628.22 --> 1635.22] The people sing, the people sing. -[1635.22 --> 1647.22] Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest. -[1647.22 --> 1660.22] Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest. -[1660.22 --> 1664.22] Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest. -[1664.22 --> 1665.22] I see, Sasha. -[1665.22 --> 1670.54] I see a generation -[1670.54 --> 1674.22] rising up to take their place -[1674.22 --> 1677.22] with selfless faith, -[1677.22 --> 1682.72] with selfless faith. -[1682.72 --> 1692.38] I see a near revival, stirring as we pray and sing. -[1692.38 --> 1699.34] We're on our knees, we're on our knees. -[1700.18 --> 1709.74] Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest. -[1709.74 --> 1722.58] Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest. -[1724.72 --> 1729.70] Heal my heart and make it clean. -[1731.64 --> 1736.40] Open up my eyes to the things unseen. -[1736.40 --> 1745.40] Show me how to love like you have loved me. -[1746.30 --> 1751.40] Break my heart for what breaks yours. -[1752.94 --> 1757.40] Everything I am for your kingdom come. -[1757.40 --> 1780.40] Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest. -[1780.40 --> 1793.30] Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest. -[1793.30 --> 1804.98] Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest. -[1804.98 --> 1818.38] Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest. -[1818.38 --> 1825.10] Hosanna in the highest. -[1825.10 --> 1829.68] May be seated. -[1831.00 --> 1849.78] Good morning. -[1849.78 --> 1852.44] My name is Yap and I'm a deacon here at Langley-Emmanuel. -[1853.30 --> 1858.68] We continue our worship with the giving of our gifts to the budget and the special offering -[1858.68 --> 1860.42] today is for the Gateway of Hope. -[1861.52 --> 1864.94] The Gateway of Hope is a ministry of the Salvation Army in Canada. -[1865.28 --> 1869.80] Serving the city and the township of Langley, their mission is to help the homeless and -[1869.80 --> 1875.24] those at risk with material assistance and other crucial supports in order to help them -[1875.24 --> 1876.42] find hope and move forward. -[1876.42 --> 1881.62] Over the years since they've opened, they have assisted many men and women to move out -[1881.62 --> 1884.38] of homelessness for good and into healthy living. -[1884.92 --> 1887.78] Please consider giving to this ministry as you are able to. -[1889.46 --> 1895.80] Proverbs 14, verse 31, whoever oppresses a poor man insults his maker, but he who is generous -[1895.80 --> 1897.08] to the needy honors him. -[1898.16 --> 1898.72] Thank you. -[1906.42 --> 1934.50] This is my only comfort in my life and in my death. -[1934.50 --> 1940.60] You are fully paid for all my sins and all my debt. -[1940.60 --> 1950.80] Even when I struggle to believe, with your precious blood you set me free. -[1950.80 --> 1962.80] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul. -[1962.80 --> 1969.80] In my life and in death. -[1969.80 --> 1976.80] To you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[1976.80 --> 1990.48] You preserve my life in such a way that without you, not a hair can fall from me unless you will it too. -[1990.48 --> 2003.48] Even when I'm lost in desperation, all things work together for my salvation. -[2003.48 --> 2017.48] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul. -[2017.48 --> 2024.48] In my life and in death. -[2024.48 --> 2032.48] To you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[2032.48 --> 2061.48] Always by your Holy Spirit you assure me of eternal life and make me willing and ready. -[2061.48 --> 2066.48] Even when I can't see my way through. -[2066.48 --> 2073.48] From now on to always live for you. -[2073.48 --> 2078.48] To you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[2078.48 --> 2080.48] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul. -[2080.48 --> 2086.48] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul. -[2086.48 --> 2087.48] In my life and in death. -[2087.48 --> 2088.48] In my life and in death. -[2088.48 --> 2093.48] In my life and in death. -[2093.48 --> 2099.48] To you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[2099.48 --> 2105.48] To you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[2105.48 --> 2120.48] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul. -[2120.48 --> 2121.48] In my life and in death. -[2121.48 --> 2122.48] In my life and in death. -[2122.48 --> 2127.48] In my life and in death. -[2127.48 --> 2137.48] To you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[2137.48 --> 2142.48] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul. -[2142.48 --> 2147.48] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul. -[2147.48 --> 2152.48] In my life and in death. -[2152.48 --> 2153.48] In my life and in death. -[2153.48 --> 2154.48] In my life and in death. -[2154.48 --> 2155.48] In my life and in death. -[2155.48 --> 2157.48] To you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[2157.48 --> 2169.48] To you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[2169.48 --> 2179.48] Good morning, everybody. -[2179.48 --> 2184.48] If you haven't noticed already, because the weather is pretty warm, -[2184.48 --> 2185.48] it's not summer anymore. -[2185.48 --> 2188.48] This week was the first week of autumn or fall, -[2188.48 --> 2191.48] which means that we're starting that transition at church -[2191.48 --> 2193.48] to moving back into our ministry starting. -[2193.48 --> 2197.48] So with that being said, I would like all of the kids to come forward. -[2197.48 --> 2201.48] So even if you're not in preschool, like we've been doing, -[2201.48 --> 2206.48] but if you're in grade kindergarten or grade one or grade two or grade three -[2206.48 --> 2210.48] or grade four, I know it's a little empty today with some of the families, -[2210.48 --> 2213.48] but please come up and join me at the front. -[2213.48 --> 2218.48] Oh, great. I see some big kids. I love it. -[2218.48 --> 2224.48] We have to kind of practice doing this again because we've just had the youngest kids going to children's worship time. -[2224.48 --> 2228.48] And it's a little bit of a trick because there is no children's worship time today. -[2228.48 --> 2233.48] It's still just for the preschool and those who are in kindergarten this year. -[2233.48 --> 2238.48] But next week we will be starting children's worship time again for all the kids. -[2238.48 --> 2243.48] So we are looking forward to all the teachers being able to see you guys again and hearing about your summer -[2243.48 --> 2246.48] and looking at God's word together. -[2246.48 --> 2252.48] So what we're going to do is just say a quick little nice important prayer -[2252.48 --> 2255.48] and then we'll do the blessing before some of you guys head off. -[2255.48 --> 2261.48] Lord God, we thank you that we can come and sing and worship you at church -[2261.48 --> 2264.48] and learn more about your word and your love for us. -[2264.48 --> 2269.48] Thank you for the chance to listen to all these different grown-ups who can teach us. -[2269.48 --> 2273.48] And we pray God that those who are going to children's worship time, -[2273.48 --> 2276.48] that you would bless them as they learn in their classroom. -[2276.48 --> 2278.48] In Jesus name, amen. -[2278.48 --> 2280.48] All right, let's stand up. -[2280.48 --> 2283.48] You guys don't know how to do it. -[2283.48 --> 2284.48] Ready? -[2284.48 --> 2288.48] The Lord is with you. -[2288.48 --> 2291.48] And all will be with you. -[2291.48 --> 2292.48] Amen. -[2308.48 --> 2316.48] My name is John and I'm one of the elders of the church here. -[2316.48 --> 2319.48] And I'd like to lead you in our congregational prayer. -[2322.48 --> 2324.48] Oh Lord God, we come before you. -[2324.48 --> 2329.48] You are our great and awesome God, creator of this world. -[2329.48 --> 2331.48] We see the beauty of your creation around us. -[2331.48 --> 2336.48] As we see the transition into fall, we still see the sunshine and the warm weather today. -[2336.48 --> 2338.48] We're thankful for that blessing. -[2338.48 --> 2343.48] Thankful for the blessing of crops coming in, gardens being harvested. -[2343.48 --> 2345.48] Lord, we see your hand in all these things. -[2346.48 --> 2349.48] Lord, your love for us is truly beyond measure. -[2349.48 --> 2351.48] And we are thankful for that. -[2351.48 --> 2357.48] And Lord, we come as a congregation today to be able to give you the praise -[2357.48 --> 2360.48] and the honor and the glory that is due your name. -[2360.48 --> 2362.48] We humble ourselves before you. -[2362.48 --> 2369.48] And we come as a broken people, those who are in need of salvation. -[2369.48 --> 2375.48] Lord, we need your blessing on us as we live our lives according to your will. -[2375.48 --> 2382.48] We need your comfort and your strength, Lord, for each day as we try to serve you. -[2382.48 --> 2387.48] Lord, those of us who are grieving, those who are suffering the loss of loved ones, -[2387.48 --> 2390.48] Lord, whether that was recent or long-term in the past, -[2390.48 --> 2397.48] Lord, those hurts are still there and we need your comfort, your blessing on those who are hurting. -[2397.48 --> 2406.48] Lord, that we as a family of believers may be able to support and bring comfort to those who are in need that way. -[2406.48 --> 2423.48] Lord, we live in a broken world and we see that, Lord, manifest in the weather that we have seen affecting the Maritimes, the Caribbean, even Bangladesh, Lord, with the floods and strong winds. -[2423.48 --> 2434.48] Lord, many people are affected by that and we pray for your blessing on those who have to regroup their lives, have to suffer through losses of homes and businesses. -[2434.48 --> 2442.48] Lord, we pray that, as a church community, we may be able to support and help those who are in need. -[2442.48 --> 2455.48] Lord, we also see brokenness in wars and we see the difficulties that are happening in Ukraine with Russia trying to take control of other lands that are not theirs. -[2455.48 --> 2458.48] We pray for peace in that situation there. -[2458.48 --> 2468.48] Lord, we are as a church community starting in a new year of our new church year. -[2468.48 --> 2476.48] We're thankful for the many blessings of people who are willing to give of their hearts and time and talents to serve in this community. -[2476.48 --> 2486.48] Lord, that whether that's elders and deacons, whether that's Sunday school teachers, gems and cadet counselors, others who are stepping forward to fill the gaps. -[2486.48 --> 2506.48] Lord, we pray a blessing on those that your spirit may give strength and energy to those who are doing those tasks, that they may do that joyfully, be able to enjoy that time of fellowship and spreading your word to those who are in need. -[2506.48 --> 2516.48] Lord, we pray also for the young adult ministry that is, we're looking for part-time position for working with our young adults in this church. -[2516.48 --> 2525.48] We pray that people may come together next week to give a vote for whether we do this or not. -[2525.48 --> 2533.48] Lord, we ask that we may be able to come to pass, that we may indeed have somebody to be able to work with our young adults in this church. -[2537.48 --> 2541.48] Lord, we pray for preaching the word this morning. -[2541.48 --> 2545.48] We're thankful for Kevin who will be bringing your word this morning. -[2545.48 --> 2550.48] Lord, we pray for the Lord, that we may be able to ask a blessing on his words, that whatever he speaks may be your words, Lord. -[2550.48 --> 2559.48] That those words may be able to go into our hearts and minds, that we may be able to take that to heart, that we may be able to live that in our coming week. -[2559.48 --> 2566.48] Lord, we ask that we may earnestly seek you in everything that we do. -[2566.48 --> 2580.48] Lord, we ask that your face may be shining on us, that your blessing may be in our hearts, in our minds, in our actions as we go out to serve you in this coming week. -[2580.48 --> 2584.48] Lord, this we ask in your name alone. Amen. -[2589.48 --> 2616.48] Thank you. -[2616.48 --> 2624.88] If you've been joining us these past couple of weeks, you'll know that we've been working our -[2624.88 --> 2631.24] way through a little sermon series called This Is Our Church. During this series, Pastor Chris -[2631.24 --> 2637.92] has looked at our church's mission statement, gather, grow, go. Two weeks ago, Pastor Chris -[2637.92 --> 2643.74] discussed why we gather, which was to be edified by each other as Christ works through us, especially -[2643.74 --> 2650.22] in the areas of accountability and discipline, presence, and this new fun word called sacralizing. -[2650.90 --> 2654.68] Last week, Pastor Chris led us through the second word of our mission statement called -[2654.68 --> 2661.86] grow, which we learned that when we grow, sorry, because of Christ and to Christ and through Christ, -[2662.30 --> 2667.08] as we serve our church and as we serve our communities around us. Today, we're going to -[2667.08 --> 2673.74] be looking at that third word, go. Where do we go? Now, our Bible text this morning comes -[2673.74 --> 2679.70] from Matthew 5, verses 38 to 48. It'll be on the screen behind me, but as always, I do encourage -[2679.70 --> 2683.98] you, please, if you have your Bibles with you or your Bible apps on your phone, please open them up -[2683.98 --> 2688.10] and have them accessible throughout the message because we're going to be going in and out of -[2688.10 --> 2692.52] this text for the next little bit. So it's always good to have your Bibles at the ready. But here we -[2692.52 --> 2696.68] go. Jesus says in Matthew 5, verse 38 to 48, -[2696.68 --> 2704.96] You have heard that it was said, eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth. But I tell you, do not resist an -[2704.96 --> 2711.48] evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if -[2711.48 --> 2718.36] anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go -[2718.36 --> 2724.92] one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you and do not turn away from the one who -[2724.92 --> 2730.80] wants to borrow from you. You have heard that it was said, love your neighbor and hate your enemy. -[2730.90 --> 2736.56] But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children -[2736.56 --> 2743.76] of your Father in heaven. He causes his Son to rise on the evil and the good and sends rain on the -[2743.76 --> 2749.30] righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are you, -[2749.52 --> 2754.92] are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing -[2754.92 --> 2763.14] more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. -[2764.14 --> 2765.12] The Word of the Lord. -[2768.42 --> 2773.74] So it was May of 2020, and the whole world had shut down for about two and a half months, -[2773.76 --> 2779.62] and on this week in May, I was preoccupied with a few different things. I was planning my next youth -[2779.62 --> 2785.10] ministry night over Zoom and preparing a sermon that was going to be recorded in an empty room -[2785.10 --> 2791.82] on my phone, held up by a music stand and supported by two Psalter hymnals in the back room 108 back -[2791.82 --> 2797.98] there in a church that had been empty for 10 weeks. Most of my time back then was spent learning the -[2797.98 --> 2803.60] intricacies of shooting videos on your phones or teaching people how to transfer files from their phone -[2803.60 --> 2810.10] to the iCloud or organizing church devotions, devotions and services, sorry, for 300-ish people. -[2810.64 --> 2815.88] I was busy writing stuff up for youth and figuring out how to engage 40 teenagers on a screen that's the -[2815.88 --> 2820.62] size of a loaf of bread, when most of them honestly were coming with their cameras off because let's -[2820.62 --> 2824.04] face it, we were all operating out of our pajamas back then and nobody wanted to be seen looking like -[2824.04 --> 2832.52] that anyways. This was not my most favorite season of life, but this church was great. People were super -[2832.52 --> 2837.98] patient as we did what we could. I got encouraging emails from members of this congregation for the -[2837.98 --> 2842.84] church services that they watched and from youth and the parents of youth for the dumb games we were -[2842.84 --> 2848.22] trying to do over Zoom and engage the youth in that way. Honestly, even though I hung out in this building -[2848.22 --> 2853.46] by myself far more than I ever want to again, this church was very understanding. They were very patient, -[2853.82 --> 2860.26] very encouraging. But that one week in May felt different. The context of the pandemic was sort of -[2860.26 --> 2865.38] getting to me and after working so hard to bring some sort of semblance of community to people who we -[2865.38 --> 2871.10] haven't been able to see in so long, I found myself at a tipping point then. The encouragement from -[2871.10 --> 2876.44] the church, from you all, was very good. It was there. People were kind. They were gracious and understanding, -[2876.44 --> 2883.06] but I was fading. But one evening at the end of that week in May when I was fading, there was a -[2883.06 --> 2887.08] knock on my door and a member of this church, who will remain nameless because I didn't ask for -[2887.08 --> 2892.86] permission to share this story, they were standing at my door with a big basket in hand. She told me -[2892.86 --> 2897.86] that six couples in this church, all of them parents of youth, had gotten together and put this gift -[2897.86 --> 2903.50] basket together to say thanks to Nikki and myself for those 10 weeks. There's a beautiful card inside -[2903.50 --> 2908.32] full of encouragement, some delicious food, gift cards to different places. Now, I didn't deserve -[2908.32 --> 2914.26] that. I didn't think. It wasn't something that these wonderful people had to do. But they went above -[2914.26 --> 2919.04] and beyond. They went the extra mile and reached out to me and encouraged me in a moment that I really, -[2919.14 --> 2923.32] really needed it. It changed my week. Actually, to be honest with you, it changed the next few months -[2923.32 --> 2927.70] of that pandemic. It jolted me forward. It helped me persevere in the midst of these pandemic -[2927.70 --> 2932.10] restrictions. And now, today, that we are on the other side of those intense restrictions, -[2932.10 --> 2937.52] I still think of that gift as a huge blessing and a huge moment that really helped me persevere -[2937.52 --> 2946.00] forward through that pandemic. And that's what this text is about, going above and beyond for everyone. -[2947.46 --> 2952.60] The thrust of this text this morning teaches us not necessarily where to go, but how we are to go. -[2953.60 --> 2956.42] So we're going to look at that for the next minute or, I don't know, 19. -[2956.42 --> 2961.20] So Jesus starts off by quoting the Old Testament in his text. He says, -[2961.26 --> 2965.26] you've heard it said, an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. And he's right, of course. I'm not -[2965.26 --> 2968.88] going to stand up here and say Jesus was wrong. Of course he was right. An eye for an eye and a tooth -[2968.88 --> 2973.72] for a tooth is in the Old Testament. It's actually in the Old Testament a bunch of times. Exodus 21, -[2973.82 --> 2980.66] 24 says that. So does Leviticus 24, 20 and Deuteronomy 19, 21. The thing with all of those passages, -[2980.88 --> 2985.92] though, is they're written to a specific audience. They're written to judges or to magistrates or to -[2985.92 --> 2992.58] people who are in charge of doling out punishments in the court of law. See, the point of those passages -[2992.58 --> 2999.00] is to inform those judges, those ruling over those conflicts, informing them on how to rule -[2999.00 --> 3006.36] equitably, how to discern proper punishments for injustices. So those Old Testament passages are -[3006.36 --> 3011.68] there basically saying, make sure to dole out those punishments equitably. Don't take a life for -[3011.68 --> 3015.34] someone's eye. Don't take someone's limb because they knocked out someone's tooth. -[3015.92 --> 3022.52] That's the context of those passages. Now the problem in Jesus' time was the Pharisees were -[3022.52 --> 3026.54] getting a little overexcited with those laws and they really started to lean into them a little bit. -[3026.70 --> 3031.46] Rather than those laws be used just by the discerning courts as the Old Testament lays out, -[3031.66 --> 3035.62] the Pharisees were becoming kind of overzealous. They were becoming a little bit like vigilantes, -[3035.80 --> 3038.58] kind of like Batman but without the money or the detective skills or the eye makeup. -[3038.58 --> 3044.94] So in one way Jesus is looking at these Pharisees and he's trying to set the record straight here -[3044.94 --> 3049.16] that this is not every Pharisee's job to dole out these punishments this way. -[3049.90 --> 3055.70] But he does something so interesting here. He does something so interesting. He doesn't -[3055.70 --> 3059.98] change the law. He changes the audience. -[3059.98 --> 3065.66] See, he's still talking about eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth, but now instead of addressing -[3065.66 --> 3074.18] the judges on how to issue fair punishments, he's talking to those who were wronged and how -[3074.18 --> 3079.78] they should respond. That's an important shift because he's talking about the same law here -[3079.78 --> 3084.98] but to different people or to different side of those contexts. The lesson here is not that those -[3084.98 --> 3089.40] who commit wrongdoings should get away with their crimes, that those in authority should simply -[3089.40 --> 3095.36] turn their heads to the side and let people strike blows to people's faces or steal people's possessions -[3095.36 --> 3102.44] or take advantage of people's time. This is a message of instruction to those who have been wronged -[3102.44 --> 3109.20] and how to go about their lives in the midst of their troubles. This is a message about humility and -[3109.20 --> 3114.28] selflessness. When we're wronged, we're not supposed to seek revenge. -[3114.28 --> 3119.32] We're not supposed to seek reward. We are to seek peace and act righteously. -[3120.78 --> 3123.86] Jesus uses three examples here, and we're going to look at each one quick. -[3124.72 --> 3130.36] Jesus says when someone physically harms you or strikes you on the cheek, do not seek revenge by -[3130.36 --> 3136.34] hitting them back. Don't repay violence with violence or injury with injury. Instead, turn the other -[3136.34 --> 3143.02] cheek, Jesus says. Now, I think it's really important to pause here for a moment because I want to make -[3143.02 --> 3148.70] sure I'm very clear. Some of you might be hearing this and might be in a position where you are being -[3148.70 --> 3153.82] abused or you are in a position where you are being bullied. Kids, if you're at school and getting -[3153.82 --> 3159.10] bullied, this might be ringing some bells for you or if you're someone else getting physically taken -[3159.10 --> 3165.98] advantage of you. I want to be very responsible here. Turning the other cheek does not mean remaining in a -[3165.98 --> 3173.08] position where you are being abused by someone or bullied by someone. If someone is really hurting you, -[3173.66 --> 3176.26] this is not saying simply take it on the cheek over and over again. -[3177.86 --> 3182.36] If you're experiencing physical abuse or if you're being bullied or anything of that sort, -[3183.20 --> 3190.82] it is important, it is vital for you to be safe. So please hear that. So if that's you, please don't think -[3190.82 --> 3197.60] this is a message or a passage about you remaining in that abusive relationship. Instead, go to someone, -[3197.72 --> 3202.36] go to an authority, be it the police, be it your teachers, be it a pastor or a mentor or a friend -[3202.36 --> 3209.98] or a family member you trust and let them help. Your safety in that important is the most important -[3209.98 --> 3217.50] thing. Turning the other cheek still means not responding in violence, but if you're in that position, -[3217.50 --> 3223.08] you're still called to respond. Finding someone to help you is that response. Remember, that's why -[3223.08 --> 3228.16] these laws in the Old Testament are there in the first place, to have systems in place so that judges -[3228.16 --> 3234.36] and authorities can help keep people safe from perpetual violence, not just rendering that law of equitable -[3234.36 --> 3240.18] punishment void. Jesus isn't doing that. He's teaching us how to respond when we get hurt. So what turning -[3240.18 --> 3246.20] the other cheek means here is that in physical altercations, don't respond with violence. -[3247.50 --> 3252.50] You don't lower the ceiling of holiness or righteousness and repay insult with insult. -[3253.64 --> 3259.02] Instead, turn the other cheek. Respond with meekness. Respond to violence with peace. -[3259.50 --> 3263.14] Turn the other cheek and walk away to someone who can help you. -[3263.14 --> 3269.24] I really pray that that is clear today. So if it's not, please come speak to me after the service. -[3270.16 --> 3275.52] So that's the first example Jesus uses. He's talking about physical harm, not responding to -[3275.52 --> 3283.50] violence with violence. And the second example is about possessional harm. When someone harms your -[3283.50 --> 3290.04] stuff, your estate, or tries to steal your church, don't try to steal it back. Don't return selfishness -[3290.04 --> 3294.96] with more selfishness. If matters are small, and honestly, I do think so many of the squabbles we -[3294.96 --> 3300.14] find ourselves in are small. It says, cut your losses. Give of your stuff. Trust in God. Move on. -[3300.92 --> 3306.52] We see these situations often when relationships break down or when family fights over inheritances or -[3306.52 --> 3313.00] corrupt business deals in those sort of situations. Now, don't be a doormat, but respond to selfishness -[3313.00 --> 3320.38] with selflessness. Let the petty stuff like your jacket go. People matter more than stuff. Jesus is -[3320.38 --> 3327.84] saying, seek peace, not property. The third example Jesus gives here has to do with our time. -[3328.80 --> 3334.18] If someone needs your time, don't just walk one mile with them. Walk two. This is where the saying, -[3334.26 --> 3340.58] go the extra mile, comes from. Do more than what people ask of you. Give to the one who asks of you, -[3340.58 --> 3344.76] and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. That's what Jesus says. -[3345.42 --> 3351.70] Be a willing servant. Help people who need your help. Don't just do the minimum. Go above and beyond. -[3352.44 --> 3358.84] Give more to them than even they ask. Essentially, what Jesus is saying with all of these examples is -[3358.84 --> 3365.84] we are to be meek. We are to be holy and righteous and selfless. Don't live in this world by the -[3365.84 --> 3371.40] Western mantra of do no harm, but actually do more than that. That's a very low bar. -[3373.68 --> 3379.64] Go above and beyond. Be charitable. Be generous with your time, with your money, with your stuff, -[3379.86 --> 3386.78] with yourself. Because this message is more than do no harm. This message is do good for all people -[3386.78 --> 3393.40] and do all the good you can. Again, it's not saying be a doormat or a pushover and don't remain in those -[3393.40 --> 3402.26] toxic relationships, but don't simply just do no harm. Do good. Live righteously. Let the ultimate -[3402.26 --> 3405.08] judge rule over your life as you live this way. -[3405.08 --> 3414.02] Jesus doubles down on this message in the next chunk of text because he calls us to love our -[3414.02 --> 3419.70] enemies. Now, I don't think Jesus pulls any punches here. He's very clear. Listen to what he says in -[3419.70 --> 3425.62] verses 43 to 48, and I kind of summarize a little bit here. He says, I tell you, love your enemies and -[3425.62 --> 3430.32] pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of the Father in heaven. If you love those -[3430.32 --> 3435.72] who love you, what reward will you get? If you only greet your own people, what are you doing more -[3435.72 --> 3441.12] than the others? Don't even the pagans do that? He's saying rather boldly, everyone loves those who -[3441.12 --> 3448.16] are good to them. Everyone loves those who loves them back. If you're loving those who love you, great. -[3448.40 --> 3454.48] Like, keep doing that. But also, kind of, who cares? That's not a very high bar again. -[3454.48 --> 3462.08] Jesus is telling you, love your enemies. Pray for them. Pray for their well-being, their lives, -[3462.40 --> 3467.24] the things that they are going through. That's the bar of holiness that Jesus is setting. That's the -[3467.24 --> 3475.94] bar that we're to aim to here. So when we go, that's where it means. We are to go to our enemies, -[3476.36 --> 3481.58] to live selflessly with those who we call enemies. Now, this isn't the only time Jesus calls for this. -[3481.58 --> 3484.96] We actually did a whole sermon series in the summer, if you recall, on the parables. -[3485.52 --> 3488.44] And one of the parables we talked about was the parable of the good Samaritan. -[3489.06 --> 3493.84] Now, there's a lot in that parable, but one of the key points was that it was the Samaritan -[3493.84 --> 3498.64] that saved this beaten man. It was the Samaritan who was the enemy -[3498.64 --> 3507.14] who saved this man. The enemy was the neighbor. The enemy was the one who cared. -[3507.14 --> 3513.10] That's who we are called to be, the one who cares for those who are our enemies. -[3515.08 --> 3522.44] But it begs the question, doesn't it? Who are our enemies? As Christians, who are our enemies? -[3525.10 --> 3529.40] Now, again, for some of you sitting today, you might have some very clear ideas about who your -[3529.40 --> 3533.90] enemies are, and I am not here to minimize that. Maybe it's someone who has wronged you or treated you -[3533.90 --> 3538.50] unfairly in the past. Maybe it's someone who's taken advantage of you or abused you. Some of you -[3538.50 --> 3545.26] have real enemies. Enemies we need to turn the other cheek and remove ourselves from, as we discussed -[3545.26 --> 3551.78] earlier. Enemies we need to find help so that we remain safe. And yet also, enemies that Jesus calls -[3551.78 --> 3560.26] us to pray for, as hard as that may be. Some of you have lived through wars. Some of our older members -[3560.26 --> 3565.42] here might remember World War II and have lived through the horrors of that day, of that season, -[3565.56 --> 3572.56] sorry. Watching evil rain down on people. Real tangible enemies. We've helped refugee families -[3572.56 --> 3578.28] in this church. Families who've lived through similar horrors. I mean, right now, there's stories of -[3578.28 --> 3583.92] Christians around the world who have enemies persecuting you. They know who they are. A quick Google -[3583.92 --> 3589.32] search found stories of Ukrainian Christians helping wounded Russian soldiers or Christians praying -[3589.32 --> 3596.38] for peace in Myanmar amongst sort of the ongoing war happening there. Or Christians feeding those -[3596.38 --> 3601.72] who persecute them in Nigeria. You can get stuck in an internet wormhole hearing these stories. We know -[3601.72 --> 3609.70] they're happening. We hear it all the time. Christians serving their enemies when war rains down. -[3609.70 --> 3619.88] But who are our enemies here? Like for many of us here today, we're pretty blessed. As Christians who -[3619.88 --> 3624.46] have lived in Canada most of our lives, even for some of us lived in this Fraser Valley most of our -[3624.46 --> 3631.10] lives, if not all of it. Who are our enemies? We don't really have any, do we? -[3631.10 --> 3638.48] The thing is, we do. Because you see, what's happening in our culture, and this isn't just -[3638.48 --> 3644.32] Christians, though we as Christians are as included in this group as anybody else, but in our culture, we -[3644.32 --> 3650.94] create our enemies. We've been taught by the world around us a bunch of lies. We've been taught that if -[3650.94 --> 3655.62] someone thinks differently than you, you must fear or hate them. Or if someone disagrees with you, you are -[3655.62 --> 3661.66] intolerant, and then they must hate you. Or we're taught, if you don't submit to my views on social -[3661.66 --> 3667.20] matters, or identity politics, or hot-button issues surrounding political affairs, or human rights, or -[3667.20 --> 3674.88] pandemic restrictions, if I dare say, you must be my enemy. See, we're so polarized in our culture right now. -[3674.88 --> 3679.12] If they don't think or act like we do, we isolate from them. -[3679.12 --> 3687.76] If we disagree with a stance, we remove ourselves from the equation. Actually, we're told that if, -[3688.42 --> 3694.84] we're not told, sorry, to remove ourselves from the equation, we are told to remove them from the equation. -[3696.12 --> 3703.08] If internet message boards have taught us anything over the past five to ten years, we go on tirades over articles -[3703.08 --> 3705.90] that we actually never read, or videos that we actually never watched. -[3705.90 --> 3713.58] And instead of turning the cheek, we see headlines of issues that we disagree with, and out comes the -[3713.58 --> 3722.76] keyboard warrior in all of us. Before you disagree with me, I see it happen a lot, over and over again -[3722.76 --> 3728.00] on Facebook mostly, but Instagram as well, with members of this church, and people I know beyond this -[3728.00 --> 3735.32] church too, with issues that quite frankly, just don't need engaging online. And instead of turning that -[3735.32 --> 3740.76] proverbial cheek, we lean into our screens and we damage our keyboards or our phones because we're -[3740.76 --> 3750.60] typing so hard. We just go at people. Because if we disagree, we've got to fight for our truths, for our -[3750.60 --> 3760.04] views, for our beliefs. But you don't have to fight, especially online. We need to discuss, not fight. The -[3760.04 --> 3765.08] problem is, not only do people engage these discussions poorly, without tact and without -[3765.08 --> 3771.96] love, but we're also now starting to not engage these things at all. We're becoming so polarized as a -[3771.96 --> 3781.40] culture that the algorithms that are used to feed you the information online are just pumping you stuff -[3781.40 --> 3786.28] that you already agree with. Because that's what matters online, is your engagement. That's how the -[3786.28 --> 3791.00] internet works. It gives you what you want to read. It's why when you start watching like a cooking video, -[3791.32 --> 3795.66] or you watch like four of those in a row on Facebook or on Instagram, guess what's going to be in your -[3795.66 --> 3801.96] feed the next three weeks? Cooking videos. The thing is, that's happening with the political articles you're -[3801.96 --> 3807.24] reading, and it's happening with the pandemic news you're receiving the past few years. It's happening -[3807.24 --> 3814.68] with everything. You're not getting both sides of the story. Just one very loud side that you already -[3814.68 --> 3821.08] kind of agree with and lean towards. So confirmation bias, no matter what side of the argument you're on, -[3821.08 --> 3826.28] wins out. And echo chambers start ringing very loudly, and that creates a massive problem, because -[3826.28 --> 3834.92] the other side of the argument has now become your enemy. We're so polarized already as a culture, -[3834.92 --> 3840.52] and we're creating false enemies that, and we don't even know because we don't ever really -[3840.52 --> 3849.48] meaningfully listen to the other side. Craig Turnbull, in an article titled The Anti-Fragile -[3849.48 --> 3855.76] Christian, speaks to this truth when he's discussing how we have become a culture that creates -[3855.76 --> 3857.88] our own enemies. He says this, he says, -[3857.88 --> 3866.12] Intolerant of differences, words are viewed as violence, debates as toxic, and disagreements -[3866.12 --> 3872.92] as assaults on self-sovereignty. The concept of trauma is bloated to now include anything that's -[3872.92 --> 3878.60] done against individual truths. And the obsession with eliminating threats, both real and perceived, -[3879.16 --> 3882.60] celebrates the title of victim whenever it is convenient to do so. -[3882.60 --> 3889.48] Now again, just stepping away from this for a second, there are real victims out there. There is -[3889.48 --> 3895.88] real trauma out there. Some of you have experienced both or are experiencing both, and to you we want -[3895.88 --> 3900.60] to help you. Please understand that we know that there are real people hurting, real victims out there, -[3900.60 --> 3902.84] and real trauma that exists. And yet, -[3902.84 --> 3913.32] those real situations are minimized by exactly what Craig is saying here. That we are celebrating -[3913.32 --> 3919.32] victimhood to the point that we are creating enemies out of good, well-meaning people who might just think -[3919.32 --> 3925.80] differently than you. We don't actually have enemies, but we create them every day because our world is -[3925.80 --> 3932.68] divided on everything. And one last thing, if you're sitting here today thinking, oh man, I really hope -[3932.68 --> 3937.32] the left-wingers are hearing this, or I really hope the right-wingers are, or I hope the pro-choice -[3937.32 --> 3943.40] people are tuned in, or the pro-life folks are, or the anti-this or the alt-that or the other side of -[3943.40 --> 3948.52] the argument is listening very clearly, you are emphatically proving my point. -[3948.52 --> 3957.56] If you are thinking the other side right now, wishing them to understand this, you are guilty of -[3957.56 --> 3965.00] victimizing yourself right in this moment and making an enemy of the other side. Because that is how -[3965.00 --> 3972.60] polarization works. You see, the majority of us don't really have enemies. But we live in a culture that -[3972.60 --> 3977.08] sure likes to create them for us. And we are guilty of following that culture. -[3981.88 --> 3988.76] And so those enemies, or more accurately, to those people who might think or act differently than you, -[3988.76 --> 3999.08] or have different opinions than you, Jesus gives this command. Love them and pray for them. But don't -[3999.08 --> 4008.04] just love them. Go above and beyond for them. Walk the extra mile for them, or with them. Give them -[4008.04 --> 4015.64] your coat. Serve them. Be with them. Don't fight back. Whether you're online reading some dumb Facebook -[4015.64 --> 4023.16] article or stepping into an actual physical altercation, don't fight back. Be the bringer of peace. -[4023.16 --> 4031.56] Please engage the conversation with love. Jesus is our example here. He led in this way. Jesus not only -[4031.56 --> 4039.64] led in this way, he lived this way. And he died this way. Read 1 Peter with me. 1 Peter 2, 21 to 24, -[4039.64 --> 4046.76] it says this, To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example that you -[4046.76 --> 4053.00] should follow in his steps. He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth. When they hurled -[4053.00 --> 4060.52] their insults at him, he did not retaliate. When he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted -[4060.52 --> 4069.56] himself to him who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross so that we might die to -[4069.56 --> 4080.44] sin and live for righteousness. He hurled no insults. He made no threats. He died for the love of all he -[4080.44 --> 4089.24] created so that we might live for righteousness. That's the gospel message. Jesus came to this earth. -[4089.24 --> 4094.60] He lived a perfect life that we could not live, and he died the death that we all deserve to die, -[4094.60 --> 4100.52] and he did that in our place. Three days later, he rose again from the grave and defeated sin -[4100.52 --> 4108.12] and death in order that we may live for righteousness. That is our goal, to go and live for righteousness. -[4110.04 --> 4117.24] When we say gather, grow, go, we don't just mean go out. We don't just mean go into the neighborhood, -[4117.24 --> 4122.84] or go into your communities or your work. This message is not just simply go to a place. -[4122.84 --> 4132.76] Go is a posture. When we go, we go to our neighbors, the friends and the enemies, those who think like us, -[4132.76 --> 4140.04] those who think unlike us, who we disagree with. When we go, we go to bring peace, not engage in vitriol -[4140.04 --> 4147.96] conversations and add to the polarization of this world. When we go, we go above and beyond for the -[4147.96 --> 4155.64] people God has placed in our lives. We give more of ourselves, more of our stuff, more of our money, -[4155.64 --> 4165.32] more of our time, more of us. Because when we go, we go in the name of Jesus Christ, who never wavered in -[4165.32 --> 4171.24] his mission to love those and serve those around him. He didn't hurl insults back. He never threatened -[4171.24 --> 4177.72] those who beat him or who humiliated him. In fact, he went as far as any person could go. -[4178.84 --> 4186.28] He went right to death. For not just those who loved him, but to those who were his enemies as well. -[4188.52 --> 4193.96] That's why we go, and that's how we go, because it is Jesus who we follow. So as we go, -[4193.96 --> 4201.80] let's remember that going isn't just a place. We're called to go with a posture. Jesus is led by not -[4201.80 --> 4207.80] being vengeful, and so we are called to do the same, living selfless lives of love for all people -[4207.80 --> 4214.92] and going above and beyond for them. As we go, let us remember that Jesus came and endured the cross -[4214.92 --> 4224.12] for us all, for you, for me. Now we must go above and beyond for him. Amen? Let me pray. -[4228.84 --> 4233.88] Our great God in heaven, we come to you today after reading this text, -[4236.36 --> 4239.08] understanding a little bit more of what you call us to do. -[4239.08 --> 4246.60] Lord, we live in a world where it becomes easy, even accidental, to create enemies out of people -[4246.60 --> 4252.60] who disagree with us, who think differently than us. God, let us not get sucked into that trap. -[4255.16 --> 4261.96] Lord, you have created all, and you have called us to not simply love those who love us, but love -[4261.96 --> 4268.84] our enemies. God, may we do that well. God, may we do that with discernment. If we're in -[4268.84 --> 4273.16] places we need to escape, let us escape, but let us pray for those who persecute us. -[4276.20 --> 4283.64] And so God, today, as we leave this building in a little while, and we go into the world that you -[4283.64 --> 4291.56] have made for us, the communities that you have given us, God, may we go in your name. May we go -[4291.56 --> 4297.56] above and beyond, and may we go serving you and loving your people in your name. Amen. -[4298.84 --> 4306.20] Let's stand and sing together. -[4306.20 --> 4336.18] Let's stand and sing together. -[4336.18 --> 4354.18] Let me be my servant. Let me be as Christ to you. Pray that I may have the grace to let you be my servant too. -[4354.18 --> 4356.18] Let me be as Christ to you. -[4356.18 --> 4372.98] We are pilgrims on a journey. We are travelers on the road. We are here to help each other, -[4372.98 --> 4379.86] walk the mile and bear the load. -[4379.86 --> 4381.86] I will hold the grace to you. -[4381.86 --> 4385.86] I will hold the grace to you. -[4385.86 --> 4391.86] In the night time of your fear. -[4391.86 --> 4397.86] I will hold my hand out to you. -[4397.86 --> 4403.86] Speak the peace you long to hear. -[4403.86 --> 4417.86] I will weep when you are weeping. When you laugh, I'll laugh with you. -[4417.86 --> 4431.86] I will share your joy and sorrow. Till we've seen this journey through. -[4431.86 --> 4443.86] While you let me be your servant. Let me be as Christ to you. -[4443.86 --> 4457.86] Pray that I may have the grace to let you be my servant too. -[4457.86 --> 4459.86] Amen. -[4459.86 --> 4461.86] Amen. -[4461.86 --> 4463.86] Amen. -[4463.86 --> 4464.86] Amen. -[4464.86 --> 4466.86] Amen. -[4466.86 --> 4468.86] Amen. -[4468.86 --> 4470.86] Amen. -[4470.86 --> 4472.86] Amen. -[4472.86 --> 4474.86] Amen. -[4494.86 --> 4498.86] Amen. -[4498.86 --> 4502.86] Amen. -[4502.86 --> 4510.86] Amen. -[4510.86 --> 4516.86] Amen. -[4516.86 --> 4522.86] Amen. -[4522.86 --> 4543.00] These are the days of Elijah, declaring the word of the Lord. -[4543.00 --> 4552.04] And these are the days of your servant Moses, righteousness being restored. -[4552.86 --> 4562.82] And though these are days of great trials, of famine and darkness and sorrow, -[4563.18 --> 4571.42] still we are the voice in the desert, crying, prepare ye the way of the Lord. -[4571.42 --> 4579.56] Behold, He comes, rising like a child, shining like a sun, -[4579.56 --> 4591.84] at the trumpet call, lift your voice, hear of jubilee, and out of sight till salvation comes. -[4591.84 --> 4605.32] And these are the days of Ezekiel, the dry bones becoming as flesh. -[4605.32 --> 4615.28] And these are the days of your servant David, rebuilding a temple of praise. -[4615.28 --> 4620.56] And these are the days of the harvest. -[4620.56 --> 4625.72] The fields are as white in the world. -[4625.72 --> 4634.58] And we are your labors in your vineyard, declaring the word of the Lord. -[4635.00 --> 4644.72] Behold, He comes, riding on the clouds, shining like a sun, as the trumpet call. -[4644.72 --> 4654.72] Lift your voice, hear of jubilee, and out of sight till salvation comes. -[4654.72 --> 4669.52] There's no God like Jehovah. -[4669.52 --> 4684.72] believe salvation come there's no god like jehovah there's no god like jehovah there's no god like -[4684.72 --> 4697.04] jehovah there's no god like jehovah there's no god like jehovah there's no god like jehovah -[4697.04 --> 4707.04] he holds me he comes riding on the clouds shining like the sun at the trumpet call -[4707.04 --> 4717.36] lift your voice and hear of jubilee and out of science hill salvation come -[4718.08 --> 4729.36] behold he comes riding on the clouds shining like the sun at the core lift your voice -[4729.36 --> 4741.68] fear of jubilee and out of science hill salvation come -[4759.36 --> 4766.64] during the deep deep deep deep deep deep deep deep deep deep deep deep deep deep deep deep -[4766.64 --> 4775.68] journalists морals of balance you whisper would just change as being he seems to -[4775.68 --> 4778.72] you know -[4779.04 --> 4787.76] so -[4787.76 --> 4817.74] Thank you. -[4817.76 --> 4847.74] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 26 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 26 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ecf60f27fd60c4d9e37f2f862c54d68d1073023e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 26 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,101 +0,0 @@ -• Establishing a safe and healthy church community -• Safe Church Ministry equipping congregations in abuse awareness, prevention, and response -• Emanuel Christian Reformed Church's expansion of the Safe Church Committee role to include overall safety measures -• Improving security with cameras and establishing a first aid equipment room -• Earthquake preparedness and emergency supplies for 40 people for three days or 80 people for a day and a half -• Converting from COVID response team back to Safe Church Committee -• Needing additional members for the Safe Church Committee -• Upcoming budget offering and Seeds of Hope Children's Ministry collection -• Discussion about a worship service with children -• Mention of a video being unable to be shown due to "technological difficulties" -• Reference to an activity from the previous Sunday's children's worship time, where they were starting to learn about the book Genesis in the Bible -• A prayer was led by Kevin Lobert, the youth pastor, asking for blessings and restoration for those affected by disasters and persecution. -• Christians being killed for proclaiming faith -• Refugees and their struggles -• Election aftermath in the country -• Church concerns: individuals struggling, church issues with flooding and renovation -• Pandemic's impact on the community, prayer for those affected -• Mental health and silent health concerns -• Request to maintain unity within the church despite differing opinions -• Introduction and prayer for volunteers in the church -• Ministry year kickoff and reflection on why they do what they do -• Discussing the impact of COVID-19 on ministry and mission -• Celebrating God's work in the church and community, expecting Him to show up -• Reviewing the church's history and development of its mission statement -• Revealing the church's current mission statement: "Gather, grow, go" -• Explaining what each part of the mission statement means -• Reviewing and understanding the church's mission statement -• Reflecting on current practices and how they align with the mission statement -• Exploring what it means to live a life that is radically obedient to God's Word -• Discussing two types of radical obedience: connecting with God's original design and intent, and living counter-culturally -• Examining examples of counter-cultural living in a world that often celebrates opposing values (e.g. Sabbath rest, submitting to covenant community, raising sexual ethics) -• Emphasizing the need for God's work and community in order to live a life of radical obedience -• The importance of gathering together in church -• Reference to Hebrews 10:23-25 on holding fast to hope and spurring one another on -• A campfire illustration used to describe the importance of community in sustaining faith -• Discussion on the need for deep, gathered communities in a post-Christian reality -• The power of liturgy and regular worship in shaping Christians and driving their identity -• The importance of worship and music in the church -• Growing together in worship, both physically and online -• Expanding community beyond Sunday services to other spaces and activities -• Fostering deeper connections and relationships within the church -• Strengthening prayer ministry and inviting more people to participate -• Encouraging mentorship, discipleship, and studying together -• The importance of serving others and being connected to people who think differently -• The need for the church to be different and better, and to promote connection and understanding over echo chambers and polarization -• The value of disagreeing with others in a loving and respectful manner -• The importance of seeking reconciliation and talking through struggles with others -• The challenge of navigating disagreements and finding common ground -• The role of the Holy Spirit in making us better and transforming us into the image of Christ -• The connection between gathering as a church and growing in faith, with growth being measured by transformation into Christ's image -• The Christian life is one of growth, with both incremental and rapid progress -• God's Spirit works through the Gospel to transform hearts and minds -• Church growth is a result of lives being transformed by the Spirit and the Word -• A discipleship model based on relationships between teacher, disciple, and community is most effective in promoting church growth and health -• The importance of relationships in the church community, including small groups, disciple groups, friend groups, and mentorship -• The interconnectedness of these groups and how people transition through them as they grow spiritually -• The concept of a "porous community" where people are welcomed and encouraged to move from one group to another -• The need for facilitators or leaders who can help new people get involved in the church's small groups and care groups -• The importance of growing and connecting within the church community, which will lead to going out on mission with God -• The Great Commission -• Making room for doubt and uncertainty -• Overcoming fear and doubt with faith and trust in God's goodness -• Worshiping God even when facing challenges or uncertainty -• Proclaiming the truth of God's love and presence despite feelings of doubt or uncertainty -• The Great Commission is to go and make disciples, teaching them to obey -• Jesus' command to "go" is connected to his creation and authority as the Father's sent one -• Mission work arises from a sense of being sent, not arrogance or self-importance -• Missional Christianity is redundant because being Christian inherently means being missional -• The church exists through mission and has no identity without it -• Evangelism is an expression of love for something, including God and Jesus Christ -• The speaker reminisces about a friend who enthusiastically showed off his watch collection -• The speaker notes that people often don't show their enthusiasm for Jesus or church in the same way they do for other hobbies -• The speaker shares an anecdote about her son's enthusiasm for showing off his remote control monster truck to guests -• The speaker suggests that when people treasure something, they naturally want to share it with others -• The speaker asks why people don't apply this principle to Jesus or church -• The speaker notes a cultural phenomenon in the CRC church where people say "I invite them to my church" instead of saying "I invite them to church" -• The speaker expresses sadness and frustration at this kind of language, and suggests that it reflects an underlying fear or insecurity -• Recognizing God's work in one's life and letting go of personal stumbling blocks -• Sharing faith journeys and stories to spread the gospel -• Remembering first love for Jesus and loving what He loves (His church) -• Going out and seeking to save the lost, whether locally or globally -• Identifying mission fields, including homes, neighborhoods, workplaces, and communities -• Addressing unreached people groups and missionary work -• Considering being called to global missions -• The importance of being who God is calling us to be -• Gathering, growing, and going as a community -• Seeking and saving the lost through the gospel -• Transformation of communities by revealing God's kingdom -• Trusting in God to lead and complete His work -• Prayer for guidance and empowerment to fulfill God's will -• The mission and purpose of a group or community -• The guidance and presence of God -• Overcoming fear, shame, and past mistakes -• Spiritual healing and redemption through God's power -• Praise and worship to God's glory and honor -• Redemption and transformation through faith -• The power of truth and belief in one's heart -• Personal struggles with sin and mistakes -• Shared human experiences with pain and hurt -• The importance of honesty and relationships -• Loss and recovery from past experiences \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 26 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 26 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 7d7d34d5de61391248db21b7fa4074029d4eb1a5..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 26 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1601 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[479.98 --> 509.96] Thank you. -[509.96 --> 539.94] Thank you. -[539.96 --> 569.94] Thank you. -[569.96 --> 599.94] Thank you. -[599.96 --> 629.96] Thank you. -[629.96 --> 659.94] Thank you. -[659.96 --> 689.94] Thank you. -[689.96 --> 719.94] Thank you. -[719.96 --> 749.94] Thank you. -[749.94 --> 779.92] Thank you. -[779.92 --> 809.90] Thank you. -[809.92 --> 839.90] Thank you. -[839.92 --> 869.90] Thank you. -[869.92 --> 899.90] Thank you. -[899.90 --> 929.88] Thank you. -[929.90 --> 959.88] Thank you. -[959.90 --> 989.88] Thank you. -[989.90 --> 1019.88] Thank you. -[1019.90 --> 1049.88] Thank you. -[1049.90 --> 1079.88] Thank you. -[1079.90 --> 1109.88] Thank you. -[1109.90 --> 1139.88] Thank you. -[1139.90 --> 1169.88] Thank you. -[1169.88 --> 1199.86] Thank you. -[1199.88 --> 1229.86] Thank you. -[1229.86 --> 1259.84] Thank you. -[1259.84 --> 1289.82] Thank you. -[1289.84 --> 1319.82] Thank you. -[1319.84 --> 1349.82] Thank you. -[1349.84 --> 1379.82] Thank you. -[1379.82 --> 1409.80] Thank you. -[1409.82 --> 1439.80] Thank you. -[1439.82 --> 1469.80] Thank you. -[1469.80 --> 1499.78] Thank you. -[1499.78 --> 1505.02] Church is to establish a safe and healthy church, a community where abuse -[1505.02 --> 1509.92] itself becomes unthinkable and where survivors feel supported and safe. The -[1509.92 --> 1514.66] Safe Church Ministry equips congregations in abuse awareness, -[1514.66 --> 1519.88] prevention and response. They're from our denomination. They also -[1519.88 --> 1526.30] offer workshops that are free to any of the members and I -[1526.30 --> 1534.10] encourage you if you see them to join up and participate in that. The Emanuel -[1534.10 --> 1539.68] Christian Reformed Church here also has kind of expanded the role of the Safe -[1539.68 --> 1544.40] Church Committee and we just look at safety as a whole not only abuse where -[1544.40 --> 1550.58] we equip the team leaders and so forth with teaching and awareness and they all -[1550.58 --> 1554.98] have binders with information and so forth but we've also done some other things. -[1554.98 --> 1560.62] We look at church as a whole as a safe environment so we've done things like -[1560.62 --> 1566.26] improve security with security cameras. We work with the deacons and the Board of -[1566.26 --> 1573.76] Stewards and we have established now a first aid equipment room especially with -[1573.76 --> 1578.02] a bed and everything so that if someone needs that that's available to them and -[1578.02 --> 1583.22] along with that is an earthquake preparedness in that same room. That room -[1583.22 --> 1588.92] is on the east side south of the bathrooms and in case of an earthquake when there -[1588.92 --> 1594.26] is a meeting here or something happens there is enough food and water for 40 for -[1594.26 --> 1598.22] three days or 80 for a day and a half so that'll just hopefully get people -[1598.22 --> 1604.22] through to be able to get back to their homes or to access other services. So -[1604.22 --> 1613.70] we've been doing a lot of other things as well. We have also yeah I won't go into -[1613.70 --> 1617.34] all of the things but the other thing that I wanted to ask was if anybody's -[1617.34 --> 1622.40] interested we have now converted back from the COVID response team because we -[1622.40 --> 1628.68] did that for 18 months back into the Safe Church Committee so since restrictions are -[1628.68 --> 1633.24] gone now that all the programs are open so if you're interested please contact me. -[1633.24 --> 1637.44] We do need a few more members. I want to thank Heather Vartstra for stepping up. -[1637.44 --> 1641.40] She's going to be taking care of all the medical aspects and the disaster relief -[1641.40 --> 1648.18] section and also Marguerite Scone has stepped up to help as well. So we do need -[1648.18 --> 1653.70] two or three more people so if you could find your heart for that we appreciate that. -[1653.70 --> 1658.74] And next week's offering I will go to that will be for the budget and Seeds of Hope -[1658.74 --> 1664.02] Children's Ministry. Please give as the Lord has given you. -[1683.70 --> 1690.20] good news as the prime minister. -[1690.20 --> 1710.60] Hurry up take the Lord from the -[1710.60 --> 1713.00] of Jesus -[1713.00 --> 1715.12] We cry -[1715.12 --> 1716.26] holy -[1716.26 --> 1717.48] holy -[1717.48 --> 1718.74] holy -[1718.74 --> 1721.32] And we cry -[1721.32 --> 1722.26] holy -[1722.26 --> 1723.64] holy -[1723.64 --> 1724.92] holy -[1724.92 --> 1727.44] And we cry -[1727.44 --> 1728.48] holy -[1728.48 --> 1729.52] holy -[1729.52 --> 1731.08] holy -[1731.08 --> 1733.42] Israel -[1733.42 --> 1737.60] Amen -[1737.60 --> 1739.60] Amen -[1739.60 --> 1742.02] We call down -[1742.02 --> 1743.92] And we are -[1743.92 --> 1744.82] Christ -[1744.82 --> 1745.74] And we -[1745.74 --> 1749.24] Of Jesus -[1749.24 --> 1751.74] And we -[1751.74 --> 1752.94] Bring this -[1752.94 --> 1754.06] Son -[1754.06 --> 1755.22] And we -[1755.22 --> 1757.68] Have a -[1757.68 --> 1757.84] The -[1757.84 --> 1761.28] Of Jesus -[1761.28 --> 1763.12] And we -[1763.12 --> 1763.86] Cry -[1763.86 --> 1764.92] Holy -[1764.92 --> 1766.06] Holy -[1766.06 --> 1766.60] Holy -[1766.60 --> 1768.60] And we -[1768.60 --> 1769.86] Cried -[1769.86 --> 1770.04] 崇 Yeti -[1770.04 --> 1774.16] We -[1774.16 --> 1775.24] S solid -[1776.24 --> 1779.02] The -[1779.02 --> 1779.94] True -[1779.94 --> 1782.80] But we -[1784.80 --> 1785.98] Or -[1785.98 --> 1786.90] We -[1786.90 --> 1788.88] Save The -[1788.88 --> 1808.32] Holy, holy, holy, and we cry, Holy, holy, holy, and we cry, Holy, holy, holy is the Lamb. -[1818.88 --> 1822.90] It's time now for the children's blessing. -[1823.16 --> 1825.10] Everyone, all the kids up to age, what is it? -[1825.20 --> 1825.72] Grade four? -[1825.90 --> 1826.52] Come on up. -[1840.56 --> 1841.20] You're good? -[1841.40 --> 1841.84] All right. -[1842.14 --> 1844.20] Well, it's good to see all the kids this morning. -[1844.20 --> 1851.98] I already had a question here this morning from one kid who wants to know if we're jumping off the stage again this morning. -[1854.06 --> 1855.16] That was fun, wasn't it? -[1855.60 --> 1856.28] You know what? -[1856.36 --> 1867.04] I got some great video last week, and I was going to put it up on the screen, but does anybody, any of you kids ever heard the word technological difficulties? -[1867.92 --> 1869.02] You heard of that before? -[1869.50 --> 1870.54] Well, that's what I had. -[1870.68 --> 1873.48] Basically, I couldn't figure out how to get the picture off my phone. -[1874.66 --> 1876.58] So I'm going to be working on that this week. -[1876.72 --> 1879.90] So next week, maybe we'll have some pictures of you guys jumping off. -[1881.02 --> 1885.50] Does anybody remember what we were working on in children's worship time last Sunday in the backroom? -[1885.54 --> 1886.76] What were we going to start talking about? -[1886.82 --> 1887.68] Does anybody remember? -[1889.64 --> 1889.84] What? -[1889.84 --> 1894.40] That's good. -[1894.48 --> 1895.80] We remember that part of the morning. -[1895.88 --> 1896.34] That's good. -[1897.86 --> 1899.16] What were we talking about in the backroom? -[1899.18 --> 1900.56] What are we going to start learning about? -[1900.64 --> 1901.74] What's the first book in the Bible? -[1901.80 --> 1902.72] Remember we talked about that? -[1902.78 --> 1903.74] What's the name of that book? -[1903.86 --> 1904.34] Nora, do you know? -[1905.28 --> 1905.60] Genesis. -[1905.76 --> 1907.36] So we're going to start talking about Genesis today. -[1907.44 --> 1908.20] Are you excited about that? -[1908.84 --> 1909.16] Yeah? -[1909.30 --> 1909.76] That's good. -[1910.44 --> 1910.78] All right. -[1910.88 --> 1912.26] How about we do the children's... -[1912.26 --> 1914.62] Actually, I'm going to pray with you guys first, and then we'll do the blessings. -[1914.72 --> 1915.24] Does that sound good? -[1916.06 --> 1916.36] All right. -[1916.84 --> 1918.30] Heavenly Father, thank you for this day. -[1918.50 --> 1919.48] Thank you for these children. -[1919.82 --> 1922.56] Thank you that we had the opportunity to be here this morning to learn about you. -[1923.36 --> 1929.90] Please bless the teachers and all of us in the rooms in the back as we share your word with these children. -[1930.10 --> 1931.04] For Jesus' sake, amen. -[1932.62 --> 1935.74] Okay, if we can get everybody to stand up, including the kids here. -[1937.10 --> 1938.36] We know how to do this, right? -[1940.72 --> 1941.34] Everybody ready? -[1942.54 --> 1944.94] The Lord be with you. -[1945.24 --> 1947.20] And all of us will be. -[1969.46 --> 1972.96] It's nice seeing all these kids leave the sanctuary again, isn't it? -[1972.96 --> 1975.86] I feel like that's been a little while since we've been able to do that. -[1977.14 --> 1980.66] For those of you who are perhaps watching online or sitting here today, my name is Kevin Lobert. -[1980.70 --> 1983.48] I'm the youth pastor here at Langley Emanuel CRC. -[1983.94 --> 1986.30] And it's my honor to be able to bring you... -[1986.30 --> 1988.88] To lead you, sorry, in our church family prayer. -[1989.00 --> 1990.96] So if you'll all bow your heads with me, we'll pray. -[1994.70 --> 1995.62] Our Father in heaven, -[1995.62 --> 1997.26] God, you are so great. -[1997.26 --> 1998.34] God, you are so great. -[1998.92 --> 2004.52] Lord, your gift of your son on the cross is something that we cannot even imagine. -[2004.86 --> 2007.94] We cannot even fathom or begin to understand. -[2008.04 --> 2011.40] And yet we know that because of that gift, Lord, we are saved. -[2012.62 --> 2014.34] God, you have saved us from our sins. -[2014.44 --> 2015.68] You saved us from death. -[2015.68 --> 2020.82] And you will come back again to restore your world as you created it in the beginning. -[2022.10 --> 2024.38] But God, it seems so far away sometimes. -[2024.66 --> 2025.94] Lord, we think of the world right now. -[2026.02 --> 2033.14] We think of so many of the disasters, the storms, the hurricanes, the earthquakes. -[2033.34 --> 2034.66] We think of countries like Haiti. -[2036.44 --> 2040.04] And God, sometimes it's so hard to imagine that you can come and restore this. -[2040.26 --> 2041.58] God, we pray for the people of Haiti. -[2041.58 --> 2047.30] We pray for the people around the world who are struggling because of weather, because of storms, -[2047.86 --> 2049.34] or people who have been displaced. -[2050.66 --> 2052.26] And God, we lift them up to you. -[2052.50 --> 2054.14] God, may you restore their homes. -[2054.68 --> 2055.82] May you restore their families. -[2056.22 --> 2059.78] Lord, we think of places in the world where people are experiencing persecution. -[2060.20 --> 2061.84] Christians, but other religions as well. -[2061.92 --> 2063.60] People who are dying for what they believe. -[2064.70 --> 2070.42] Lord, we pray especially for those Christians in the world who are being killed for proclaiming you as Lord. -[2071.58 --> 2078.14] God, may you continue to give them the conviction that they have. -[2078.74 --> 2083.08] And may you somehow work in the midst of all of this for your kingdom's glory. -[2083.54 --> 2084.88] Lord, there are many people who are scared. -[2085.04 --> 2088.10] There are people living in refugee camps who aren't home anymore, God. -[2088.12 --> 2089.90] And again, we ask that you be with them. -[2089.96 --> 2090.72] We think of our churches. -[2090.90 --> 2093.96] We are looking to sponsor another refugee family, hopefully soon down the road. -[2094.32 --> 2100.12] God, may you be with that process as well and be with that family as they await news and more information on that. -[2100.12 --> 2102.20] Lord, we think of our country right now. -[2102.26 --> 2103.70] This past week we had an election, Lord. -[2103.98 --> 2105.16] Some of us are perhaps happy. -[2105.26 --> 2106.48] Some of us are perhaps frustrated. -[2106.62 --> 2107.68] Some of us are perhaps angry. -[2108.24 --> 2111.84] Lord, whatever the case, this is the leadership that is in our country. -[2111.90 --> 2113.30] And we pray that you will be with them. -[2113.90 --> 2115.68] God, bring your kingdom to this country. -[2115.82 --> 2117.18] Help them lead with integrity. -[2118.46 --> 2122.76] God, put the right people in the ears of these leaders to whisper your truth. -[2122.76 --> 2124.00] The truth. -[2125.20 --> 2126.66] So that they will lead out of that. -[2129.20 --> 2130.40] Lord, we lift up this church. -[2130.52 --> 2132.38] There are some concerns in this church as well. -[2132.44 --> 2133.28] People who are struggling. -[2133.44 --> 2136.74] We think of Chris and Rachel and Bill and Miriam today, God. -[2136.80 --> 2138.06] Their house was flooded this week. -[2138.94 --> 2143.52] And they are now relocating and renovating for the next little while for the foreseeable future, God. -[2143.54 --> 2144.82] We pray for patience for them. -[2144.92 --> 2146.66] We pray for expedience for this process. -[2146.66 --> 2154.12] We pray for integrity for the workers and those who are helping with the insurance side of things and the construction side of things. -[2154.22 --> 2157.66] And just pray that that all comes together smoothly. -[2159.46 --> 2165.42] Lord, this pandemic has dominated our conversations over the past year and a half, Lord. -[2165.52 --> 2167.32] And it is striking very close to home. -[2167.58 --> 2173.00] We pray for the many people in our church right now who are dealing with this disease. -[2173.00 --> 2176.20] For those who have family members who are sick. -[2176.20 --> 2178.70] God, we think especially of Karen. -[2178.88 --> 2185.98] We pray for her and her family as they think of Martin, her dad, who is in the hospital on life support on a ventilator right now. -[2186.16 --> 2189.52] God, may your miraculous healing enter his body. -[2190.22 --> 2195.12] We pray for the family as they patiently wait to see if that will help. -[2195.16 --> 2199.02] We think of Sarah's brother, Patrick, who is also in critical condition in CAMU because of COVID. -[2199.32 --> 2200.46] God, bring healing to him. -[2200.72 --> 2202.26] Be with Sarah and her family as well. -[2202.26 --> 2210.66] Lord, we think especially of Peter and Grace and Lucy in Grand Forks, Lord, who lost their wife and their mom to COVID just two weeks ago. -[2211.56 --> 2212.68] Lord, it's so hard. -[2212.82 --> 2213.42] Be near them. -[2213.56 --> 2217.50] Surround them with people who love them, who reach out to them, who encourage them. -[2217.56 --> 2218.50] God, who can help them. -[2219.22 --> 2223.14] Be especially with Peter and those girls as they learn to live life. -[2223.40 --> 2228.28] Learn to live their lives without their mom and without their wife. -[2228.28 --> 2229.82] Lord, we think of Clary's dad. -[2229.90 --> 2234.36] We're thankful that he is back home right now, but he has a long road of recovery as well from COVID. -[2234.78 --> 2237.48] Help that recovery to happen, to go well, to go smoothly. -[2238.34 --> 2241.22] Just be with him as he looks like he's going to be a long hauler right now too. -[2241.34 --> 2245.08] And Lord, there are many others who are affected by this pandemic, and we just ask that you bring healing. -[2246.02 --> 2248.94] Lord, be with us all during this time. -[2250.38 --> 2253.84] Let this pandemic not divide us, Lord. -[2253.84 --> 2258.14] We all have different opinions on this. -[2259.12 --> 2262.10] Different opinions on how we are to go about living because of this. -[2263.14 --> 2266.26] But God, let this not sever our church. -[2266.66 --> 2269.34] Let this not sever our relationships. -[2269.62 --> 2271.10] Let this not sever the body. -[2272.26 --> 2278.30] Give us gracious hearts, listening ears, sympathetic minds. -[2279.70 --> 2282.28] Let us be united even when we see this differently. -[2282.28 --> 2285.98] God, we think of other health concerns that are happening right now. -[2286.28 --> 2288.78] There are many struggling in silence, Lord. -[2288.90 --> 2292.02] The silent health concerns like anxiety, depression, mental health, God. -[2292.08 --> 2294.22] Be present in those situations. -[2294.38 --> 2295.58] Be present in those lives. -[2296.04 --> 2301.38] Surround them too with people who can listen and be near and support as best as they know how. -[2301.54 --> 2306.36] We think of those who are struggling with cancer or dementia or heart conditions, Lord. -[2306.40 --> 2308.18] There's many other physical afflictions. -[2308.18 --> 2310.16] God, we just pray for them too. -[2311.92 --> 2315.88] Be near to everyone, Lord, who is struggling with their health right now. -[2316.94 --> 2318.12] And God, we lift up this church. -[2318.24 --> 2319.94] It's the start of a new ministry year today. -[2320.04 --> 2322.90] God, we are saddened that we can't have this festival to kick off the year. -[2322.96 --> 2324.74] And yet, we are still moving forward, God. -[2324.94 --> 2330.12] Thank you for so many volunteers in this church willing to step up in another fairly uncertain year, God. -[2330.16 --> 2334.02] And we just pray that you continue to be with them and motivate them in their ministries. -[2334.02 --> 2339.62] May they lead these ministries and serve in these ministries seeking you first. -[2340.10 --> 2343.32] And may your spirit move amongst them so that others are drawn closer to God. -[2343.64 --> 2349.38] And, Lord, those that are in need of more volunteers, we pray that you'll stir in the hearts of those members in this church who could serve in those capacities. -[2349.58 --> 2354.72] May you encourage them and bring them to these coordinators so that they can serve. -[2354.86 --> 2358.62] And, God, may these ministries bring you glory and draw others to you. -[2358.62 --> 2363.28] And now, God, as we turn to your word, be with Pastor Chris as he brings us your word. -[2363.34 --> 2366.20] May he step out of the way so that your words come through. -[2366.58 --> 2372.28] And may you give us all open ears and minds and hearts to receive what it is that you are teaching us today. -[2373.52 --> 2376.40] We pray this all in your son's precious and holy name. -[2377.08 --> 2377.34] Amen. -[2388.62 --> 2403.82] As Kevin prayed, we're going to spend some time in God's word this morning. -[2403.90 --> 2408.66] We're going to do it a little bit differently this morning because of the Sunday that it is. -[2409.54 --> 2412.34] And so you've heard it a couple times. -[2412.44 --> 2414.52] It's the ministry year kickoff. -[2414.52 --> 2429.14] We're starting different ministries over the next week or two as we return back into some form of life lived together, doing ministry together. -[2429.94 --> 2441.02] And for myself, I think this is a really good time to reflect on why we do what we do and the direction that we are setting in the midst of that. -[2441.02 --> 2451.92] And so this morning will be for us a little bit like, if you're familiar with American politics, I'll be careful what I say next. -[2451.96 --> 2452.26] Don't worry. -[2453.02 --> 2458.62] Every year, the sort of season of work begins with the State of the Union Address. -[2459.32 --> 2470.80] In Canadian politics, we have the throne speech that happens, right, where the government sort of outlines their agenda based on the celebrations and successes of the past and how they're going to go forward. -[2471.02 --> 2473.78] And this is sort of the same thing. -[2474.20 --> 2482.24] And so for us, this is a state of the vision or a state of the mission as we step into this next year. -[2482.24 --> 2499.34] Now, we all know that this next year of ministry and mission together is going to look different, not only because we've got new things and we're excited about where God is taking us, but because we continue to deal with the effects of COVID and the pandemic. -[2499.34 --> 2503.70] And that impacts how we do ministry and mission together. -[2503.70 --> 2526.64] And yet, recognizing that some of those things will be different for good reasons and some of those things will be different for bad reasons, I still think it's important for us at the beginning to both celebrate what God is doing in our midst and to look at the stories of God at work in the world through us, his church, here individually in our own lives. -[2526.64 --> 2538.14] And through us and through us and through us and through us and through us and through us and through us in the community beyond and even further than that in the world as we partner with different agencies and denominations and even send people out from this place. -[2538.14 --> 2543.74] And so we begin in celebration and we begin in anticipation. -[2546.00 --> 2557.32] One of the beautiful truths about being a Christian, about living life out of our particular faith, is that we expect God to show up. -[2558.84 --> 2563.70] We really believe that God is an active agent in the world. -[2563.70 --> 2570.74] And so what would it look like for us as a church to operate in that way in all that we do? -[2571.92 --> 2581.34] Expecting that God will show up and maybe even adding a little bit of urgency to what we do, leading God to show up. -[2582.52 --> 2591.38] And so like we said, every once in a while it's important to reflect on the mission statement of the church and to see how we are doing what we are doing, -[2591.38 --> 2593.86] to see why we are doing what we are doing. -[2593.98 --> 2603.76] And so in the grand scheme of things, because this is ministry year kickoff and because we are in the midst and Lord willing at coming out of, -[2603.84 --> 2611.20] but definitely in a time of change with this pandemic, this is exactly the time to ask these kinds of questions. -[2612.20 --> 2620.58] To wonder about what we do and to wonder if we should keep doing it or to wonder if we should keep doing it in the way that we have been doing it. -[2621.38 --> 2628.96] And so to ground us, just a little bit of history and then we'll spend some time together. -[2629.96 --> 2632.70] Now this history, most of it predates me. -[2633.30 --> 2637.96] And so I'm coming alongside of work that's been done for years in advance. -[2638.08 --> 2643.44] But in 2015 in this community, there was a discernment committee. -[2644.84 --> 2646.28] Naming is hard for churches. -[2646.28 --> 2648.92] And so we stick with things like discernment committee. -[2649.54 --> 2659.52] But this discernment committee was tasked with looking at the old mission statement and in doing so found that it was time for a change. -[2660.22 --> 2666.36] In 2018, there was a town hall meeting that happened that the church participated in. -[2666.36 --> 2674.50] And it was decided to add a third element or aspect to that previous mission statement, a specifically missional one. -[2675.60 --> 2681.68] And then coming out of that, there was a number of changes that took place and new teams and committees were started. -[2681.94 --> 2689.44] And then in 2019, the council, which is the group that sort of governs the activity and function of church, -[2690.02 --> 2694.48] council approved and presented the following mission statement. -[2694.48 --> 2695.80] Now don't put it on the screen yet. -[2697.70 --> 2700.76] Because before we put it on the screen, this is always telling. -[2701.92 --> 2703.60] Can anyone tell me what it is? -[2703.74 --> 2706.80] Now preferably not a staff person or a council person. -[2707.78 --> 2710.02] What is our church mission statement? -[2715.16 --> 2718.30] Okay, with a little bit more confidence because I think one of you knows it. -[2720.72 --> 2722.96] Gather, grow, go. -[2722.96 --> 2726.26] I'm not going to say very good because it was adequate. -[2728.42 --> 2730.46] Gather, grow, go. -[2730.60 --> 2731.58] Now, what does that mean? -[2731.68 --> 2732.54] We can flesh that out. -[2732.62 --> 2733.94] Now you can put it on the screen, Levi. -[2734.10 --> 2734.56] Thank you. -[2735.16 --> 2735.30] Right? -[2735.62 --> 2739.36] Gathering together to glorify God and encourage one another. -[2740.04 --> 2746.58] Being Christ's disciples by uniting with each other for worship services, fellowship events, and social occasions. -[2746.58 --> 2748.16] Or grow. -[2748.16 --> 2751.76] Growing in our trust, knowledge, and love of the Lord. -[2751.88 --> 2758.22] Building up as Christ's disciples by engaging each other in biblical teaching, discussions, and prayer. -[2758.68 --> 2765.16] And then go, this is what was added later, and explicitly going out as Christ's ambassadors in this world. -[2765.16 --> 2772.42] Making disciples of all nations by sharing the gospel, living lives of service, and caring for people's needs. -[2772.42 --> 2776.14] Now, that sounds beautiful. -[2777.22 --> 2778.46] That sounds lovely. -[2779.50 --> 2780.58] But what does it mean? -[2781.34 --> 2786.24] And really, if you're involved in the ministry and mission of this church, when was the last time you thought about it? -[2787.18 --> 2793.94] When was the last time it was brought in front of your work together as different teams or committees or opportunities to serve? -[2793.94 --> 2801.74] And then, after we realized that maybe we could be doing a more adequate job, how are we living it out? -[2803.08 --> 2812.80] What is a new thing or the new way or a new direction that God might be calling us to in faithful response to this mission statement? -[2813.94 --> 2818.50] That's what I want us to reflect on this morning at the beginning of this ministry year. -[2818.50 --> 2840.26] Now, it's important to say that what we do and who we are as a church, we want to be shaped by and informed by and determined by what the Bible teaches. -[2840.96 --> 2845.22] What the Bible shows us as Christians. -[2845.22 --> 2851.10] What the Bible says is that we believe as Christians that the Bible is the Word of God. -[2852.02 --> 2859.98] And that this means for us that it is God's Word for life and for new life and for redemption in Jesus. -[2860.64 --> 2868.00] And it is God's Word for how we are to live this new life, this redemption life in Him. -[2868.00 --> 2877.30] The gospel is the grace of God for new life and it is the life that we live out of grace. -[2879.20 --> 2893.62] What I want to suggest to you that for us this morning to live this gospel mission life is to live a life that is radically obedient to the Word of God. -[2893.62 --> 2906.06] Now, for some of you, you hear language like radical obedience and flags start going up and you're going to challenge me on legalism and you're going to push back and you're not going to like what I'm about to say and that's good. -[2906.42 --> 2913.74] I want you to be a little bit uncomfortable here because maybe we've grown a little apathetic in our life and faith. -[2913.74 --> 2919.58] But when I talk about radical obedience to God in the gospel, I mean that in two ways. -[2919.70 --> 2921.12] Radical in two ways. -[2921.22 --> 2927.36] Now, the word radical comes from the Latin word meaning from radix, which means root. -[2927.94 --> 2928.12] Right? -[2928.16 --> 2929.30] So like the root of a tree. -[2929.78 --> 2941.46] And here, when we talk about radical obedience, what we're talking about is connecting to God's original design and intent and purposes for human flourishing. -[2941.46 --> 2942.38] Right? -[2942.54 --> 2952.14] Connecting back to the creational norms and structures that God built into the world order when he spoke it into being. -[2953.90 --> 2965.86] What it means to be fully human, fully alive, is to live in the design of God for life, for his glory. -[2967.48 --> 2969.88] That's one sense of radical obedience. -[2969.88 --> 2981.58] But also radical in the sense of outlandish or peculiar or otherworldly. -[2982.54 --> 2982.64] Right? -[2983.04 --> 2986.98] One way to put it is to say that it's counter-cultural. -[2987.94 --> 2988.02] Right? -[2988.08 --> 2998.20] As Christians striving to live as faithful witnesses of Jesus in the world, there are certain aspects of our culture that we just have to say no to. -[2998.20 --> 3001.76] That we have to look different than. -[3002.08 --> 3010.62] Because the reality, of course, is that if the church of Jesus looks exactly the same as the non-church of Jesus, what's the point of the church of Jesus? -[3010.62 --> 3022.06] And so, in a world of perpetual busyness, which is clearly an idol that is held up and celebrated in our culture, and as Christians we are not immune to this. -[3022.06 --> 3032.60] But in a world that is celebrating perpetual busyness, something like Sabbath rest, like resting in Jesus, is counter-cultural. -[3032.60 --> 3045.36] In a world of what social philosophers are calling expressive individualism, submitting yourself to a covenant community is counter-cultural. -[3045.36 --> 3056.88] In a world full of sexual promiscuity, raising the bar of our sexual ethics is not normal, and yet that's exactly what the scriptures do. -[3058.48 --> 3067.72] In a world of casual and unreflected upon consumption, fasting doesn't make sense. -[3067.72 --> 3073.34] And yet Jesus presumes that we will be doing it. -[3074.54 --> 3076.94] And on and on goes. -[3076.94 --> 3089.12] And as Christians, who believe in the word of God, who believe in the spirit of God to make that word true in our hearts and in our lives, -[3089.48 --> 3097.90] we actually believe that this kind of radical obedience is not only good and right, but it's possible for how we live in the world. -[3098.72 --> 3098.86] Right? -[3098.86 --> 3102.30] You can actually live this way. -[3103.56 --> 3105.06] But you can't do it alone. -[3106.52 --> 3109.38] But you need God to work in you. -[3109.48 --> 3113.24] We need the word of God and the work of the spirit on you. -[3114.42 --> 3116.74] And that work makes us part of a community. -[3117.44 --> 3120.20] Part of a church family. -[3122.32 --> 3123.72] And we get together. -[3124.94 --> 3128.04] In fact, we get to gather. -[3128.04 --> 3132.98] So that's the first point of our mission statement. -[3133.18 --> 3133.70] To gather. -[3134.28 --> 3134.42] Right? -[3134.52 --> 3140.76] From the very beginning of the church of Jesus, we gathered. -[3141.54 --> 3142.10] Right? -[3142.16 --> 3152.48] From the upper room waiting for the Holy Spirit on Pentecost to other rooms and homes and back corners of temples in Judaism early on throughout the Roman Empire. -[3152.96 --> 3156.42] Christians gather as brothers and sisters. -[3156.42 --> 3160.94] Hear this from Hebrews 10. -[3162.76 --> 3164.92] I'm going to read starting in verse 23. -[3164.92 --> 3171.42] Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess. -[3171.42 --> 3173.68] For he who promised is faithful. -[3173.68 --> 3181.00] And let us consider how we may spur one another onward toward love and good deeds. -[3181.26 --> 3186.48] Not giving up meeting together as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another. -[3186.94 --> 3191.56] And all the more as you see the day approaching. -[3191.56 --> 3197.34] Consider how we may spur one another on. -[3197.90 --> 3199.00] That's why we gather. -[3199.50 --> 3199.64] Right? -[3199.64 --> 3201.70] To spur one another on. -[3202.52 --> 3202.66] Right? -[3202.72 --> 3207.68] And then not giving up meeting as some are in the habit of doing. -[3207.68 --> 3215.48] Church of Jesus Christ exists to gather together. -[3217.48 --> 3225.52] The first place we do that is here on Sunday, on the Lord's Day, around his word. -[3226.02 --> 3227.36] Sing praises to him. -[3227.84 --> 3228.66] Offer prayers. -[3229.02 --> 3232.56] Respond in our gratitude and charity in giving. -[3233.06 --> 3235.72] And to submit ourselves to God. -[3235.72 --> 3240.28] There's a quote from Martin Luther. -[3241.28 --> 3243.08] It says, Luther says, -[3243.40 --> 3248.12] At home, in my own house, there is no warmth or vigor in me. -[3248.98 --> 3260.20] But in the church, when the multitude is gathered together, a fire is kindled in my heart and it breaks its way through. -[3261.16 --> 3263.76] There's a beautiful image here. -[3263.76 --> 3281.00] And in fact, this image was made really clear to me in a conversation I had a number of years ago with a person who was trying to talk to me about how they were trying to be a Christian without being part of a church. -[3281.00 --> 3288.88] And so this illustration is that you've got a campfire burning when it is safe and seasonally appropriate to do so. -[3288.88 --> 3292.88] You've got a campfire burning with a campfire burning with a number of logs on it. -[3292.88 --> 3296.64] And you pull one of those logs out of the fire and you set it off by the side. -[3296.64 --> 3299.96] Now that log is going to continue to burn for a little while. -[3301.46 --> 3303.40] And this fire is just going to keep burning. -[3304.14 --> 3305.24] It's going to keep going. -[3306.40 --> 3310.22] But in due order, this individual log burns out. -[3311.26 --> 3316.44] It had enough self-sustaining fuel which it could consume for a period of time. -[3316.44 --> 3318.42] And then it peters out. -[3318.54 --> 3321.12] And then this one kept on burning. -[3323.40 --> 3326.74] So how can you be a Christian or how long can you be a Christian without a church? -[3327.44 --> 3328.38] Not very long. -[3329.20 --> 3334.18] But one of the beautiful testimonies about this illustration too is if you take that log after it's gone out and put it back in the fire, -[3334.18 --> 3338.16] almost instantly it's burning again bright with the rest of them. -[3339.94 --> 3340.04] Right? -[3340.34 --> 3345.32] Gathering together in the large body is critical for who we are. -[3345.62 --> 3348.92] And so let us not give up meeting together as some are in the habit of doing, -[3349.00 --> 3353.68] but encourage one another and all the more as you see the day approaching. -[3354.80 --> 3357.20] This struck me this week as I was reflecting on this, right? -[3357.26 --> 3360.18] This all the more as you see the day approaching. -[3360.18 --> 3365.52] The reality is we need more of our gathering together, not less. -[3366.34 --> 3375.44] Because the day in scriptures, that phrase, the day is used as a way to refer to the full inbreaking of the kingdom of God, -[3375.50 --> 3382.52] the return of Jesus Christ, the end of history as it were, the consummation of God's drama of redemption. -[3382.94 --> 3386.48] As we wait for that day, what we know is that every day we're getting closer. -[3386.48 --> 3391.24] And so because it's closer today than it was when this was first written, -[3391.42 --> 3394.16] we need to be getting together more, not less. -[3394.26 --> 3400.60] And yet there's some impulse in our culture to try and do less and less and less. -[3400.60 --> 3412.52] And even so, increasingly we find ourselves living in the midst of what many are calling a post-Christian reality. -[3412.52 --> 3421.56] And if that's true, that we are finding ourselves in this post-Christian reality and will only in increasing measure, -[3421.94 --> 3427.24] what we need are thick and deep communities in order to endure that reality. -[3427.24 --> 3434.20] Right now things are still relatively safe and easy for us as Christians. -[3434.62 --> 3438.00] There are challenges and some of us face more of them in different ways. -[3438.10 --> 3441.06] If you're involved in politics, particularly when you try to be a faithful Christian, -[3441.32 --> 3443.50] you know the challenges that you face. -[3445.00 --> 3450.00] The way and the only way, I believe, that we might endure this ever-increasing reality -[3450.00 --> 3453.74] is to have these deep gathered communities. -[3453.74 --> 3458.72] There's something here about the power of liturgy, -[3458.84 --> 3462.98] the power of the regular coming into the presence of God -[3462.98 --> 3467.72] and being ushered to Him as He welcomes us and greets us, -[3467.82 --> 3470.94] as we are called to sing praises to Him, -[3471.16 --> 3475.66] as we acknowledge our utter dependence upon Him in prayer and in confession, -[3476.00 --> 3477.74] as we long to encounter God. -[3477.74 --> 3485.06] There's a power to this regular, habitual forming that God can do. -[3489.40 --> 3494.18] Another quote from John Piper who talks about worship -[3494.18 --> 3501.54] and how this shapes us and drives and defines us as Christians. -[3501.74 --> 3502.26] Piper says, -[3502.26 --> 3532.26] -[3532.26 --> 3537.66] And that remains true and vital for who we are. -[3539.36 --> 3544.46] But it's not just in our worship, at least not just in our worship here, right? -[3544.48 --> 3547.26] Because we're pretty good at that here, right? -[3547.30 --> 3549.52] Our church loves to sing. -[3549.52 --> 3555.12] One of the things that in my interview process and time and time again in meetings -[3555.12 --> 3558.84] and as we're making adjustments to services over and over and over again, -[3558.88 --> 3559.92] it becomes abundantly clear. -[3559.98 --> 3560.60] As people say to me, -[3560.90 --> 3562.20] We love to sing. -[3563.08 --> 3564.74] And there are times where we are gathered here -[3564.74 --> 3568.24] and I really believe that our singing is pushing back the gates of hell. -[3569.80 --> 3570.96] We're good at singing. -[3570.96 --> 3577.36] And we have been growing in our capacity to experience and to provide worship -[3577.36 --> 3582.40] from the physical space that's been changing to our online space, right? -[3582.42 --> 3587.96] We've been working hard in this and to connecting again in gathered worship, right? -[3588.02 --> 3592.76] To experience the heart of God in worship, right? -[3592.80 --> 3596.22] And like Psalm 33 calls us, Psalm 33 says, -[3596.22 --> 3600.88] Sing to Him a new song, play skillfully, and shout for joy, right? -[3600.88 --> 3605.14] We have been learning new songs and we've been singing powerful old songs. -[3605.26 --> 3611.16] We are playing skillfully and ever trying to increase our standard of excellence, right? -[3611.16 --> 3614.98] We are shouting for joy and we are crying in sorrow. -[3616.08 --> 3619.46] And maybe you're not a hand raiser or a crier in worship, -[3619.46 --> 3624.22] but we are all being drawn closer to God and a meaningful experience of Him. -[3625.68 --> 3627.78] And maybe you haven't started that journey -[3627.78 --> 3631.36] or maybe you're on a temporary way station along that journey. -[3631.50 --> 3633.60] Maybe you are standing on a mountaintop -[3633.60 --> 3635.36] and you are calling down to the rest of us -[3635.36 --> 3638.48] the glories of the goodness of God and calling us up. -[3638.98 --> 3644.20] The point is, right, we are together journeying in our worship. -[3646.16 --> 3649.50] But it's more than just the worship that we gather for. -[3651.24 --> 3651.38] Right? -[3651.52 --> 3654.42] Gather means also other spaces. -[3654.42 --> 3658.38] Yes, Lord's Supper tables, but also dining tables. -[3659.36 --> 3660.58] Yes, church chairs. -[3660.98 --> 3663.60] These ones are maybe, Lord willing, sometime in the future new ones, -[3663.74 --> 3665.12] but also living room chairs. -[3666.02 --> 3666.14] Right? -[3666.20 --> 3667.04] Living room sofas. -[3667.94 --> 3672.48] Meeting rooms and waiting rooms as you're in the hospital. -[3673.98 --> 3676.56] Small groups or other groups. -[3676.56 --> 3677.22] Right? -[3677.22 --> 3685.88] If your experience of church community is only from 10 a.m. to 1130, 1145, I don't know, -[3685.94 --> 3689.70] we'll see how the time goes this morning, on Sunday, you're not really getting it. -[3691.08 --> 3691.52] Right? -[3691.56 --> 3693.68] And I'm not saying that we all need to be best friends. -[3694.64 --> 3694.82] Right? -[3694.82 --> 3698.28] I'm not saying that you all need to invite everybody else here to your birthday parties. -[3699.06 --> 3700.58] Although I would love a birthday invitation. -[3700.58 --> 3704.54] What I'm saying is that we are brothers and sisters. -[3705.34 --> 3709.56] And that doesn't stop when you walk out the doors after service on Sunday. -[3710.04 --> 3712.60] In fact, that's when it really starts to matter. -[3713.94 --> 3717.52] And in this area, I believe we can grow. -[3718.62 --> 3720.74] In this area, we can do more. -[3720.74 --> 3724.94] I've been meeting with some of the leaders of the different ministries and teams, -[3725.14 --> 3726.10] committees around here. -[3726.94 --> 3729.42] And we know that we can do more. -[3730.54 --> 3730.66] Right? -[3730.70 --> 3736.62] And in part of that, we're rebranding and expanding some of the work of what was called the fellowship -[3736.62 --> 3737.02] committee. -[3737.18 --> 3740.06] And we're now going to identify that as a manual connect. -[3740.54 --> 3743.08] Because we recognize this reality. -[3743.36 --> 3743.46] Right? -[3743.50 --> 3744.90] We need connection. -[3745.52 --> 3747.64] We need an experience of belonging. -[3748.04 --> 3749.66] We need more meals together. -[3749.66 --> 3751.60] Big meals and little meals. -[3751.74 --> 3756.94] Here after service, but also on Thursday where two or three might just gather. -[3758.36 --> 3761.70] We need to connect in prayer groups more than we are. -[3762.08 --> 3765.82] And to that end, I'm looking for more people to step into the prayer ministry. -[3765.96 --> 3767.74] And so if that's on your heart, connect with me. -[3768.98 --> 3769.14] Right? -[3769.14 --> 3770.26] We need to study together. -[3770.36 --> 3773.58] We need to enter into relationships of mentoring and discipleship. -[3774.46 --> 3776.38] Now, let me be really clear on this. -[3776.38 --> 3780.44] Don't hear what I'm not saying because I know that some of you, I know that a bunch of you, -[3780.56 --> 3782.16] are already doing this. -[3783.08 --> 3785.32] And we need your leadership and we need your example. -[3786.52 --> 3790.22] And I know that many of you are doing this in your little spheres of influence and you -[3790.22 --> 3795.04] are content to work quietly in the dark corners of need and you don't want recognition. -[3795.40 --> 3798.18] And I just want to say, I praise God for your faithfulness. -[3798.18 --> 3801.50] And I know that all of that is true. -[3801.86 --> 3808.22] And yet, I also know that the best antidote to a consumer Christianity that makes it about me -[3808.22 --> 3812.98] and what I can get out of it is to serve others and to be connected to others. -[3814.08 --> 3817.56] People who are different than you, who think different than you, who are older than you, -[3817.62 --> 3818.58] who are younger than you. -[3819.08 --> 3819.20] Right? -[3819.20 --> 3823.20] To share a table and a prayer with someone who has more wisdom than you, -[3823.28 --> 3826.68] with someone who has totally different life experiences than you. -[3826.68 --> 3829.40] And if you heard me say that and you thought, -[3829.50 --> 3832.36] there's nobody here with more wisdom than me, you need this more than everyone. -[3834.00 --> 3834.16] Right? -[3834.20 --> 3839.04] This is what it means to be radically obedient in a culture of echo chambers -[3839.04 --> 3844.30] and entrenched, homogeneous communities that are just perpetuated by algorithms -[3844.30 --> 3846.52] and polarization and Google and Facebook. -[3846.80 --> 3848.56] The church needs to be different. -[3848.68 --> 3849.92] The church should be better. -[3850.22 --> 3851.98] We can be better. -[3853.84 --> 3856.08] And when we disagree with each other, -[3856.68 --> 3858.20] we should come together. -[3859.50 --> 3860.70] Not drive away. -[3861.34 --> 3862.16] Not drive apart. -[3863.12 --> 3863.86] But connect. -[3864.32 --> 3867.74] And with gentleness and respect, seek to understand. -[3868.40 --> 3868.54] Right? -[3868.54 --> 3871.80] When we get hurt or when we hurt someone, -[3872.50 --> 3876.12] we need to come together in love and reconciliation. -[3877.20 --> 3877.30] Right? -[3877.36 --> 3879.64] Instead of gossiping in the corners, -[3879.64 --> 3882.44] we need to bring this struggle into the light. -[3883.10 --> 3883.22] Right? -[3883.22 --> 3885.14] We need to talk to different people, -[3885.40 --> 3886.78] people who are different than us, -[3886.88 --> 3889.10] and loving them and trying to understand them. -[3889.28 --> 3891.24] Even if we may never agree, -[3891.50 --> 3894.38] we need to push in rather than push away. -[3894.38 --> 3899.56] A couple weeks ago, -[3899.60 --> 3902.16] I was talking to a friend of mine. -[3902.24 --> 3904.06] He's not a believer, -[3904.20 --> 3905.56] not a member of our church. -[3906.52 --> 3911.20] We were talking about this whole COVID thing. -[3911.98 --> 3913.60] He and I don't see eye to eye on this. -[3913.76 --> 3914.56] That's very clear. -[3915.44 --> 3917.00] But at the beginning of our conversation, -[3917.16 --> 3917.78] he said to me, -[3918.22 --> 3920.10] I believe that we as a society -[3920.10 --> 3921.84] have forgotten how to disagree. -[3922.88 --> 3925.00] That we've forgotten how to have good conversations -[3925.00 --> 3926.86] wherein we can disagree -[3926.86 --> 3928.98] and still be closely connected to each other. -[3929.54 --> 3931.04] And I think he's absolutely right. -[3931.26 --> 3933.30] But the unique thing about this conversation was, -[3933.72 --> 3935.34] almost in the next breath, -[3935.46 --> 3936.20] he said to me, -[3936.74 --> 3938.48] you're not going to convince me of your way, -[3938.56 --> 3940.20] and I know I'm not going to convince you of my way, -[3940.24 --> 3940.92] so there's no point. -[3940.92 --> 3943.52] You see the disconnect. -[3945.50 --> 3947.12] But that's where we find ourselves. -[3947.70 --> 3949.24] We know we should be doing better, -[3949.94 --> 3951.76] and yet we don't make ourselves any better. -[3952.84 --> 3953.42] Let me be clear. -[3954.36 --> 3957.04] We need the Spirit to be made better. -[3957.38 --> 3959.66] But this is the church, brothers and sisters. -[3959.86 --> 3960.86] The Spirit is here. -[3961.40 --> 3962.38] The Spirit is in you. -[3963.50 --> 3965.86] We can be different. -[3966.52 --> 3967.70] That's what it is to gather, -[3967.82 --> 3969.88] whether it's on Sunday or every day. -[3969.88 --> 3971.42] Not just for worship services, -[3971.56 --> 3974.52] but in service of all of life as worship. -[3976.16 --> 3977.28] Don't miss this. -[3978.82 --> 3982.40] Our gatherer has to serve a greater purpose. -[3983.16 --> 3984.62] Otherwise, it's just another social club. -[3985.42 --> 3989.82] Our gathering must lead to our growing. -[3991.84 --> 3993.88] Gather, grow. -[3995.02 --> 3999.08] The Christian life is measured by growth. -[3999.88 --> 4001.62] Listen to this. -[4001.72 --> 4003.22] This is from 2 Corinthians 3. -[4003.22 --> 4010.00] Now the Lord is Spirit. -[4010.00 --> 4013.34] And where the Spirit of the Lord is, -[4013.46 --> 4014.14] there is freedom. -[4015.14 --> 4017.34] And we all, with unveiled face, -[4017.46 --> 4019.64] beholding the glory of the Lord, -[4019.74 --> 4022.62] are being transformed into the same image -[4022.62 --> 4025.72] from one degree of glory to another. -[4026.64 --> 4028.58] For this comes from the Lord, -[4028.96 --> 4030.62] who is Spirit. -[4030.62 --> 4030.72] Spirit. -[4031.96 --> 4034.60] You are being transformed. -[4035.68 --> 4035.84] Right? -[4035.88 --> 4038.70] Not just at the beginning of your faith life, -[4038.78 --> 4040.86] not just at the beginning of your relationship -[4040.86 --> 4043.00] into Jesus where we are transported from death -[4043.00 --> 4045.40] into life when you first became a Christian, -[4045.66 --> 4046.66] but throughout it all, -[4047.42 --> 4050.76] right, God is making you more like Jesus. -[4051.60 --> 4051.80] Right? -[4051.80 --> 4054.18] And He does this in us through the Spirit -[4054.18 --> 4055.36] and by the Gospel. -[4055.58 --> 4056.66] Not just at the beginning, -[4056.92 --> 4057.62] but all along. -[4057.70 --> 4059.42] It is the Spirit and it is the Gospel, -[4059.56 --> 4060.32] time and time again, -[4060.62 --> 4062.34] transforming our hearts and minds. -[4062.96 --> 4065.96] The Christian life is one of growth. -[4067.10 --> 4069.36] Now it may be incremental growth, -[4069.36 --> 4070.82] and you may go through periods -[4070.82 --> 4073.12] where it's growth by leaps and bounds. -[4073.52 --> 4073.62] Right? -[4073.64 --> 4075.72] Not unlike if you've raised kids before. -[4076.04 --> 4077.80] You know that sometimes they just slowly, -[4078.22 --> 4078.90] slowly grow, -[4079.20 --> 4080.52] but then you know sometimes, -[4080.66 --> 4082.22] like we're in right now with my kids, -[4082.32 --> 4083.36] that three months later, -[4083.48 --> 4084.86] their pants are six inches short. -[4085.72 --> 4086.60] What happens? -[4087.10 --> 4087.22] Right? -[4087.26 --> 4088.80] Sometimes we jump like that. -[4089.00 --> 4090.08] Now, in our faith, -[4090.30 --> 4092.14] we also have lots of backsliding. -[4092.24 --> 4093.42] There's also lots of failure. -[4094.06 --> 4096.32] In fact, we're definitely going to have all of that, -[4096.32 --> 4097.16] of incremental growth, -[4097.22 --> 4098.08] and leaps and bounds growth, -[4098.18 --> 4098.94] and failure, -[4099.08 --> 4099.76] and backsliding. -[4100.18 --> 4103.24] But, looking back on your life, -[4104.12 --> 4106.60] you should see growth. -[4108.84 --> 4110.72] Because God is faithful to His promise. -[4112.18 --> 4114.98] The Spirit is here at work. -[4116.18 --> 4118.08] The Christian life is one of growth, -[4118.46 --> 4122.42] and the Christian church is one of growth. -[4123.36 --> 4125.70] When people's lives are being transformed -[4125.70 --> 4127.18] by the Spirit through the Word, -[4127.50 --> 4131.64] when you are living examples of Christ come down, -[4131.92 --> 4133.38] all other things being equal, -[4133.64 --> 4135.30] the church will grow. -[4135.70 --> 4138.14] People will be convicted and captivated. -[4138.44 --> 4139.44] The beauty of God, -[4139.54 --> 4141.00] and the beauty of the Gospel, -[4141.16 --> 4142.94] and the beauty of His community, -[4143.30 --> 4146.46] will touch people's imaginations and hearts, -[4146.70 --> 4151.52] and will be drawn into a relationship to God. -[4151.52 --> 4155.22] Now, even as I say that, -[4155.28 --> 4156.78] I know that the problem is -[4156.78 --> 4158.88] that not all things are equal. -[4161.30 --> 4165.74] And that church growth -[4165.74 --> 4169.36] can't be the only measure for church health. -[4170.12 --> 4171.30] I am aware of that. -[4173.56 --> 4176.06] And yet, we still want to hold out the reality. -[4176.06 --> 4179.68] This is how God has formed us to be. -[4180.48 --> 4182.12] God has designed us to be in particular -[4182.12 --> 4183.74] sets of relationships -[4183.74 --> 4186.40] that are going to allow for that -[4186.40 --> 4187.70] to happen more easily -[4187.70 --> 4190.32] in the church than in other places. -[4191.54 --> 4193.50] Here, there's a discipleship model -[4193.50 --> 4195.30] that I'm going to put in front of you -[4195.30 --> 4197.18] that really is the discipleship model -[4197.18 --> 4199.24] that our youth ministry here is based upon. -[4199.76 --> 4201.10] And it's the discipleship model -[4201.10 --> 4202.30] that I believe is most effective -[4202.30 --> 4203.92] because it's the one that I think -[4203.92 --> 4205.52] the scriptures most clearly reveal. -[4205.86 --> 4207.56] It's the one that Jesus' own life -[4207.56 --> 4209.50] was patterned after. -[4210.98 --> 4211.34] Right? -[4211.50 --> 4213.36] We've got a slide to put up. -[4213.66 --> 4214.00] There you go. -[4214.06 --> 4215.84] Now, I realize for those of you here, -[4215.96 --> 4216.80] that might be hard to see. -[4216.88 --> 4217.66] For those of you online, -[4217.74 --> 4219.28] you're getting the better experience right now. -[4220.32 --> 4222.10] But here is our discipleship model. -[4222.60 --> 4224.56] And so, in the center, there is you. -[4225.20 --> 4226.76] So, you or you or you. -[4227.38 --> 4227.62] Right? -[4227.70 --> 4230.56] And then, above is a teacher. -[4230.56 --> 4232.72] And so, all of us ought to be -[4232.72 --> 4234.74] in a relationship with a teacher. -[4235.54 --> 4237.56] Someone with whom we have deep, -[4237.86 --> 4239.92] meaningful, intentional, Christ-forming, -[4240.26 --> 4242.58] Christ-transforming kinds of relationships. -[4243.06 --> 4245.96] And below you in the center is a disciple. -[4246.76 --> 4248.98] All of us should be in relationships -[4248.98 --> 4250.10] where we are the teacher, -[4250.98 --> 4252.44] where we are discipling someone, -[4252.54 --> 4254.66] whether they're younger than us -[4254.66 --> 4256.08] or younger than us in the faith. -[4256.54 --> 4256.74] Right? -[4256.76 --> 4258.68] There needs to be a relationship that way. -[4258.68 --> 4260.98] And then, to the right and to the left, -[4261.10 --> 4262.24] you've got small groups, -[4262.32 --> 4264.06] as we are part of small groups -[4264.06 --> 4264.90] of growing and learning. -[4265.02 --> 4266.70] And to the left, you've got friend groups. -[4267.20 --> 4267.34] Right? -[4267.38 --> 4269.54] The people whom you socially hang out with. -[4269.64 --> 4272.42] And again, it's hard to see here in the space, -[4272.52 --> 4273.50] but those bottom three, -[4273.64 --> 4274.94] the friend group, the disciple, -[4275.18 --> 4277.42] and the small groups, -[4278.36 --> 4280.12] they have a mesh on them. -[4280.22 --> 4282.04] It's intended to convey -[4282.04 --> 4283.52] that it's a porous community, -[4283.76 --> 4285.52] that you are welcoming people in -[4285.52 --> 4286.92] and people are transitioning -[4286.92 --> 4288.78] to the next phase -[4288.78 --> 4289.74] in their spiritual development. -[4289.80 --> 4290.88] That is normal and good -[4290.88 --> 4292.30] and it happens, right, -[4292.32 --> 4293.82] as you are embracing people. -[4294.48 --> 4296.06] But what this does, right, -[4296.10 --> 4297.54] if you see yourself in the you, -[4298.00 --> 4300.72] also has the opportunity built within it -[4300.72 --> 4301.74] to replicate itself. -[4301.86 --> 4302.88] And so, go to the next one. -[4304.96 --> 4307.78] And so, you become the disciple -[4307.78 --> 4309.56] for someone else -[4309.56 --> 4312.52] and or you become the teacher -[4312.52 --> 4314.32] for someone else -[4314.32 --> 4315.44] and then go to the next one. -[4316.34 --> 4317.46] And then exponentially, -[4318.02 --> 4320.60] this model begins to grow -[4320.60 --> 4321.68] and then the final one -[4321.68 --> 4323.82] where you have everybody -[4323.82 --> 4325.22] in the church community, -[4325.46 --> 4326.56] which is that big white circle -[4326.56 --> 4327.22] that surrounds, -[4327.34 --> 4328.34] because that's the context -[4328.34 --> 4329.78] wherein these relationships -[4329.78 --> 4331.30] are provided and happen. -[4332.58 --> 4334.26] Everybody who's in the church community -[4334.26 --> 4335.98] who is gathered up -[4335.98 --> 4338.00] into this way -[4338.00 --> 4341.92] of being a faithful disciple of Jesus. -[4344.34 --> 4347.46] And this is where we can grow. -[4348.76 --> 4349.28] Because not all of us -[4349.28 --> 4350.30] are connected in this way. -[4350.64 --> 4351.72] Not all of us really believe -[4351.72 --> 4353.68] we need to be connected in this way. -[4353.76 --> 4354.86] And I know that it's really easy -[4354.86 --> 4356.84] for some to sit on the peripheries, -[4357.18 --> 4358.60] but we want to draw you in -[4358.60 --> 4362.32] as we experience God together. -[4362.32 --> 4365.24] So, our small groups -[4365.24 --> 4366.08] and care groups -[4366.08 --> 4368.22] have been working hard -[4368.22 --> 4370.08] to invite new people. -[4371.20 --> 4372.04] But what we need -[4372.04 --> 4372.84] are people who are willing -[4372.84 --> 4373.96] to facilitate. -[4375.30 --> 4376.64] And let me be really clear, right? -[4376.76 --> 4378.24] Facilitate doesn't have to mean lead. -[4378.50 --> 4379.06] It doesn't have to mean -[4379.06 --> 4380.30] that you run a curriculum -[4380.30 --> 4380.80] and teach, -[4380.88 --> 4381.64] but it means that you are -[4381.64 --> 4382.54] the first person to email -[4382.54 --> 4382.96] and say, hey, -[4382.98 --> 4384.04] let's get together on this day. -[4385.16 --> 4386.10] Or you're the first person -[4386.10 --> 4386.80] to say, hey, you know what? -[4386.92 --> 4388.20] I have a couch that's big enough -[4388.20 --> 4389.50] to fit at least half of you on. -[4389.74 --> 4390.80] Let's gather in my living room. -[4392.32 --> 4395.20] We need to grow in this. -[4396.34 --> 4397.40] And then I believe -[4397.40 --> 4398.68] that becomes the context -[4398.68 --> 4400.10] wherein we can also invite -[4400.10 --> 4401.24] other people. -[4401.40 --> 4402.90] So, we might begin again -[4402.90 --> 4405.92] to experience growing number. -[4409.32 --> 4414.68] Finally, and I'll say lastly, -[4414.68 --> 4417.08] just like our gather -[4417.08 --> 4418.80] has led to our grow, -[4419.74 --> 4421.12] both of those together, -[4421.26 --> 4422.16] gather and grow, -[4422.62 --> 4425.02] must connect to go. -[4426.60 --> 4427.58] Gathering together -[4427.58 --> 4428.90] in worship and life, -[4429.32 --> 4430.18] growing together -[4430.18 --> 4432.06] in discipleship and mentoring -[4432.06 --> 4433.94] will lead us out -[4433.94 --> 4436.74] on mission with God. -[4437.24 --> 4438.64] It will and it must. -[4441.14 --> 4442.70] Matthew 28, 17. -[4442.70 --> 4444.66] When they saw him, -[4445.20 --> 4446.10] they worshipped him, -[4447.04 --> 4448.48] but some doubted. -[4449.32 --> 4450.54] Then Jesus came to them -[4450.54 --> 4451.02] and said, -[4451.50 --> 4452.70] all authority in heaven -[4452.70 --> 4453.20] and on earth -[4453.20 --> 4454.06] has been given to me. -[4454.48 --> 4454.80] Therefore, -[4455.60 --> 4457.36] go and make disciples -[4457.36 --> 4458.56] of all nations, -[4458.74 --> 4459.54] baptizing them -[4459.54 --> 4460.54] in the name of the Father -[4460.54 --> 4461.64] and of the Son -[4461.64 --> 4462.98] and of the Holy Spirit -[4462.98 --> 4464.24] and teaching them -[4464.24 --> 4465.56] to obey everything -[4465.56 --> 4466.90] I have commanded you. -[4467.30 --> 4468.00] And surely, -[4468.26 --> 4469.40] I am with you -[4469.40 --> 4471.32] always to the end -[4471.32 --> 4472.24] of the age. -[4474.54 --> 4475.88] Now, here is what we have -[4475.88 --> 4476.48] come to call -[4476.48 --> 4477.64] the Great Commission. -[4477.78 --> 4478.72] But before we get into that, -[4478.76 --> 4479.56] I want you to notice -[4479.56 --> 4481.18] this mark. -[4481.52 --> 4482.58] They saw him, -[4482.88 --> 4483.96] they worshipped him, -[4484.10 --> 4486.20] but some doubted. -[4487.66 --> 4488.64] As a church, -[4488.68 --> 4489.86] we have to make room -[4489.86 --> 4490.76] for doubt. -[4490.76 --> 4492.98] The disciples, -[4493.62 --> 4494.52] people who lived -[4494.52 --> 4495.34] with Jesus, -[4495.56 --> 4496.60] who saw him -[4496.60 --> 4497.66] after the resurrection, -[4498.08 --> 4499.12] whom he appeared to -[4499.12 --> 4500.78] and promised the power -[4500.78 --> 4501.86] of the Holy Spirit to, -[4502.34 --> 4503.12] they doubted. -[4504.16 --> 4505.52] And if they doubted, -[4506.62 --> 4507.46] surely we will too. -[4508.76 --> 4509.54] And as a church, -[4509.60 --> 4510.64] we need to make room -[4510.64 --> 4511.72] for the doubter. -[4511.80 --> 4512.64] We need to make room -[4512.64 --> 4513.90] for the unbeliever -[4513.90 --> 4515.60] to come into this place -[4515.60 --> 4517.94] and experience -[4517.94 --> 4519.44] that doubt -[4519.44 --> 4520.68] to come into this place -[4520.68 --> 4522.16] and to find answers. -[4522.24 --> 4523.34] But not just for the unbeliever, -[4523.44 --> 4524.22] for us. -[4524.32 --> 4524.98] Earlier today, -[4525.06 --> 4525.98] I was struck by this -[4525.98 --> 4527.18] because we're singing -[4527.18 --> 4528.72] the chorus in that song, -[4528.88 --> 4529.62] For You Are Good, -[4530.00 --> 4531.22] For You Are Good to Me. -[4532.20 --> 4534.34] I'm singing that song today -[4534.34 --> 4535.66] after a week -[4535.66 --> 4536.46] where you heard -[4536.46 --> 4538.20] that I had a -[4538.20 --> 4540.30] water issue. -[4541.44 --> 4542.82] And so most of my house -[4542.82 --> 4544.44] needs to be gutted now -[4544.44 --> 4545.46] and we're in the midst -[4545.46 --> 4547.02] of this insurance thing -[4547.02 --> 4548.14] and praise God, -[4548.22 --> 4549.40] Rachel is taking the lead -[4549.40 --> 4549.78] on that -[4549.78 --> 4550.74] and so you can pray for her -[4550.74 --> 4551.72] because she's a much better -[4551.72 --> 4552.46] person than I am. -[4553.48 --> 4554.48] But here we are -[4554.48 --> 4555.96] in the midst of this chaos -[4555.96 --> 4558.94] and I'm singing -[4558.94 --> 4559.98] For You Are Good, -[4560.08 --> 4560.96] For You Are Good to Me. -[4561.50 --> 4562.30] Am I singing that -[4562.30 --> 4562.86] as a believer? -[4563.02 --> 4563.72] No, I'm singing that -[4563.72 --> 4564.56] as I need to -[4564.56 --> 4565.76] for this to be true. -[4567.12 --> 4568.92] I need this to be true -[4568.92 --> 4569.42] right now -[4569.42 --> 4570.60] because the things -[4570.60 --> 4571.12] in my life -[4571.12 --> 4573.34] are making me wonder. -[4574.44 --> 4577.40] we come together -[4577.40 --> 4580.52] when we aren't sure, -[4580.90 --> 4582.28] when we can't be sure -[4582.28 --> 4583.92] to proclaim the truth -[4583.92 --> 4584.42] that we know -[4584.42 --> 4586.74] in spite of what we feel -[4586.74 --> 4588.28] or in spite of those things -[4588.28 --> 4589.10] that seem like evidence -[4589.10 --> 4589.76] to the contrary -[4589.76 --> 4591.42] because that's who God is, -[4591.60 --> 4593.24] that's what His church does. -[4593.30 --> 4594.00] We need to make room -[4594.00 --> 4594.48] for doubt, -[4594.72 --> 4595.30] make room -[4595.30 --> 4597.22] to experience -[4597.22 --> 4598.84] that reality. -[4598.84 --> 4601.26] And then, -[4601.80 --> 4603.70] in that context -[4603.70 --> 4604.84] of worship and doubt, -[4605.48 --> 4607.00] we hear that all authority -[4607.00 --> 4607.66] in heaven and earth -[4607.66 --> 4608.22] has been given -[4608.22 --> 4609.10] to Jesus. -[4609.32 --> 4609.92] And so the one -[4609.92 --> 4611.10] whom has been given -[4611.10 --> 4612.48] all things -[4612.48 --> 4613.76] and who has created -[4613.76 --> 4614.38] all things -[4614.38 --> 4615.28] and for whom -[4615.28 --> 4616.44] all things were created -[4616.44 --> 4618.20] says to you now, -[4618.58 --> 4618.78] go. -[4618.78 --> 4622.62] Go and make disciples. -[4623.32 --> 4624.76] Go and teach them -[4624.76 --> 4625.88] to obey. -[4626.08 --> 4626.62] And notice that. -[4626.62 --> 4627.72] The Great Commission is both, -[4627.94 --> 4628.12] right? -[4628.18 --> 4629.34] It's disciples -[4629.34 --> 4630.34] making new disciples -[4630.34 --> 4631.48] and teaching them -[4631.48 --> 4633.18] to obey. -[4633.66 --> 4634.00] Jesus, -[4634.30 --> 4635.46] in John 20, -[4635.54 --> 4636.10] verse 21, -[4636.26 --> 4636.44] says, -[4636.58 --> 4637.92] As the Father has sent me, -[4638.38 --> 4640.18] so I am sending you. -[4640.34 --> 4642.36] We are all sent. -[4643.04 --> 4644.66] There's a beautiful quote -[4644.66 --> 4646.14] from Emile Bruner -[4646.14 --> 4646.74] and it picks up -[4646.74 --> 4647.62] on that fire image -[4647.62 --> 4648.42] from the beginning. -[4648.58 --> 4649.88] Emile Bruner says, -[4650.08 --> 4650.70] Mission work -[4650.70 --> 4651.60] does not arise -[4651.60 --> 4652.58] from any arrogance -[4652.58 --> 4653.68] in the Christian church. -[4654.08 --> 4655.62] Mission is its cause -[4655.62 --> 4656.62] and its life. -[4657.50 --> 4658.56] The church exists -[4658.56 --> 4659.20] by mission -[4659.20 --> 4660.42] just as fire -[4660.42 --> 4661.78] exists by burning. -[4662.66 --> 4663.90] Where there is no mission, -[4664.08 --> 4665.26] there is no church. -[4665.46 --> 4666.52] Where there is neither church -[4666.52 --> 4667.16] nor mission, -[4667.58 --> 4669.46] there is no faith. -[4671.84 --> 4672.60] Some people, -[4672.78 --> 4673.50] and this became -[4673.50 --> 4674.16] really popular -[4674.16 --> 4675.22] in the 90s -[4675.22 --> 4676.30] and early 2000s, -[4676.56 --> 4676.70] right, -[4676.74 --> 4677.72] like to talk about -[4677.72 --> 4679.20] missional Christianity. -[4680.16 --> 4681.02] But I want to tell you, -[4681.06 --> 4682.16] that's just redundant. -[4682.16 --> 4684.58] To be Christian -[4684.58 --> 4686.24] is to be missional. -[4686.54 --> 4687.56] And I get the need, -[4687.62 --> 4687.76] right, -[4687.78 --> 4689.24] because we forgot about that -[4689.24 --> 4689.64] and we became -[4689.64 --> 4690.74] really insular communities. -[4690.90 --> 4691.30] We didn't become -[4691.30 --> 4692.56] outward-facing communities -[4692.56 --> 4693.52] and so we need to be -[4693.52 --> 4694.20] reminded of that truth. -[4694.26 --> 4695.10] I understand that. -[4696.60 --> 4698.62] But core to our identity -[4698.62 --> 4700.10] as disciples of Jesus -[4700.10 --> 4700.72] is the people -[4700.72 --> 4702.12] who are sent -[4702.12 --> 4703.02] and we cannot -[4703.02 --> 4704.66] forget that. -[4705.80 --> 4706.54] And I know that -[4706.54 --> 4707.10] there are challenges. -[4707.22 --> 4707.86] I hear it all the time, -[4707.92 --> 4708.02] right? -[4708.04 --> 4708.66] What if I don't have -[4708.66 --> 4709.08] the answers? -[4709.66 --> 4710.24] What if I don't know -[4710.24 --> 4710.84] what to say? -[4711.72 --> 4712.48] Which I want to say, -[4712.54 --> 4713.20] well then learn. -[4714.72 --> 4714.94] Right? -[4715.02 --> 4716.08] I offer a class -[4716.08 --> 4717.54] called How to Tell the Gospel. -[4718.78 --> 4719.40] Maybe take that. -[4719.72 --> 4721.14] But even more than that, -[4721.36 --> 4721.84] hear this, -[4722.12 --> 4723.90] if you really love something, -[4724.90 --> 4726.04] you evangelize it. -[4727.82 --> 4729.22] And I have a friend of mine -[4729.22 --> 4731.60] who collects watches. -[4732.90 --> 4733.66] Now, he is, -[4733.96 --> 4735.20] he's a pastor -[4735.20 --> 4735.98] in a small Christian -[4735.98 --> 4736.50] Reformed church -[4736.50 --> 4737.18] so he does not have -[4737.18 --> 4737.84] the kind of money -[4737.84 --> 4738.42] that it takes -[4738.42 --> 4739.20] to be a really good -[4739.20 --> 4739.88] watch collector. -[4740.72 --> 4741.70] But he knows -[4741.70 --> 4742.22] where the local -[4742.22 --> 4743.28] watch shops are -[4743.28 --> 4744.64] and where those -[4744.64 --> 4745.98] $12,000 Rolexes -[4745.98 --> 4746.68] are on display. -[4747.60 --> 4748.30] Once a week, -[4748.36 --> 4748.96] he goes there -[4748.96 --> 4749.96] just to see -[4749.96 --> 4750.60] what the collection -[4750.60 --> 4751.28] might be like. -[4752.46 --> 4752.58] Right? -[4752.64 --> 4752.92] And he, -[4753.44 --> 4754.68] one time, -[4754.80 --> 4755.42] I sat down -[4755.42 --> 4755.92] in his house -[4755.92 --> 4756.66] and he showed me -[4756.66 --> 4757.84] his developing -[4757.84 --> 4759.04] watch collection -[4759.04 --> 4759.60] and he started -[4759.60 --> 4760.42] talking about -[4760.42 --> 4761.34] these watches -[4761.34 --> 4762.00] and how they were -[4762.00 --> 4762.74] handcrafted -[4762.74 --> 4763.34] in Switzerland -[4763.34 --> 4764.04] or how they were, -[4764.74 --> 4764.94] you know, -[4765.02 --> 4765.98] watches that could go -[4765.98 --> 4767.12] 10,000 feet -[4767.12 --> 4767.64] underwater -[4767.64 --> 4768.46] and whatever -[4768.46 --> 4769.38] the case may be. -[4769.38 --> 4771.20] And I gotta tell you, -[4771.42 --> 4773.78] I don't really care -[4773.78 --> 4774.22] all that much -[4774.22 --> 4774.88] about watches -[4774.88 --> 4776.80] but in that moment, -[4776.94 --> 4778.14] I was captivated -[4778.14 --> 4779.46] by his excitement. -[4780.84 --> 4781.32] Right? -[4781.38 --> 4782.58] Because he loved it -[4782.58 --> 4783.24] so much -[4783.24 --> 4784.12] the way he talked -[4784.12 --> 4784.58] about it -[4784.58 --> 4785.40] and his need -[4785.40 --> 4786.62] to just know more -[4786.62 --> 4787.70] and to share -[4787.70 --> 4788.46] that knowledge -[4788.46 --> 4789.72] was just compelling. -[4789.72 --> 4792.52] If you treasure -[4792.52 --> 4793.12] something, -[4793.46 --> 4794.72] you show it off. -[4796.72 --> 4796.88] I have, -[4797.00 --> 4798.00] my son Malachi, -[4798.14 --> 4798.56] he's six, -[4798.96 --> 4799.64] he has a remote -[4799.64 --> 4800.78] control monster truck -[4800.78 --> 4802.12] that he saved up -[4802.12 --> 4803.00] all his money for. -[4803.08 --> 4803.62] It cost him like -[4803.62 --> 4804.54] 80 something dollars -[4804.54 --> 4805.90] and he loves it -[4805.90 --> 4806.86] and whenever people -[4806.86 --> 4807.82] come over to our house, -[4808.18 --> 4808.90] he gets it out -[4808.90 --> 4809.48] of his room -[4809.48 --> 4810.90] and he shows it to them -[4810.90 --> 4811.80] and he invites them -[4811.80 --> 4812.68] to play with it. -[4813.64 --> 4814.00] Right? -[4814.04 --> 4815.02] When you treasure something, -[4815.12 --> 4815.58] you love it -[4815.58 --> 4816.62] and you show it off. -[4816.92 --> 4817.92] You invite other people -[4817.92 --> 4818.26] to it -[4818.26 --> 4819.46] and so here's the question. -[4820.34 --> 4821.24] Why don't we all -[4821.24 --> 4821.98] do that with church? -[4823.78 --> 4824.58] Why don't we all -[4824.58 --> 4825.22] do that with Jesus? -[4827.58 --> 4828.52] Do it with soccer. -[4829.88 --> 4830.54] Do it with your -[4830.54 --> 4831.64] fantasy football team. -[4833.02 --> 4833.94] Why not with Jesus? -[4836.02 --> 4836.26] You know, -[4836.32 --> 4837.96] I think in the CRC church, -[4838.08 --> 4838.78] maybe it's not -[4838.78 --> 4839.92] particular to us -[4839.92 --> 4840.70] but in my experience -[4840.70 --> 4841.92] it's particular to the CRC -[4841.92 --> 4844.08] and so I hear people -[4844.08 --> 4844.96] say things like, -[4845.54 --> 4846.50] I want to invite people -[4846.50 --> 4847.04] to church -[4847.04 --> 4848.44] but I don't want -[4848.44 --> 4848.88] to invite them -[4848.88 --> 4849.58] to my church. -[4853.80 --> 4854.98] I've got to tell you, -[4855.72 --> 4856.54] that kind of language -[4856.54 --> 4859.20] breaks my heart. -[4862.98 --> 4864.10] Why are you here? -[4866.16 --> 4867.68] Why did you start here? -[4868.58 --> 4870.18] Why do you stay here? -[4871.80 --> 4872.00] Right? -[4872.02 --> 4872.96] Tell that story. -[4874.58 --> 4874.98] Right? -[4874.98 --> 4876.18] You keep coming back -[4876.18 --> 4876.96] and sure, -[4877.04 --> 4877.64] maybe it's not all -[4877.64 --> 4878.52] perfect and rosy -[4878.52 --> 4879.76] but it's enough for you -[4879.76 --> 4880.58] so maybe -[4880.58 --> 4881.56] it'll be enough -[4881.56 --> 4882.66] for your friend -[4882.66 --> 4883.48] or for your neighbor -[4883.48 --> 4884.62] because guess who's -[4884.62 --> 4885.48] doing the work here? -[4885.76 --> 4886.54] It's not you. -[4886.68 --> 4887.34] It's God. -[4887.50 --> 4888.36] It's the Spirit -[4888.36 --> 4889.14] at work. -[4890.10 --> 4890.32] And so, -[4890.38 --> 4891.68] stop being your own -[4891.68 --> 4892.60] stumbling block -[4892.60 --> 4893.70] and let God work -[4893.70 --> 4894.22] through you. -[4894.56 --> 4895.74] Tell that story, -[4895.98 --> 4896.16] right, -[4896.20 --> 4897.48] of your faith journey -[4897.48 --> 4897.96] and you don't need -[4897.96 --> 4898.60] to have all the answers -[4898.60 --> 4899.24] because no one -[4899.24 --> 4900.48] has all the answers. -[4901.10 --> 4901.94] God will use -[4901.94 --> 4903.22] that story -[4903.22 --> 4904.24] and it's here -[4904.24 --> 4905.28] in the go -[4905.28 --> 4906.44] that we must be -[4906.44 --> 4907.18] better, -[4907.40 --> 4907.52] right? -[4907.54 --> 4908.40] We must remember -[4908.40 --> 4909.80] our first love -[4909.80 --> 4910.60] for Jesus -[4910.60 --> 4912.40] and we must love -[4912.40 --> 4913.80] what He loves, -[4914.36 --> 4914.98] His church. -[4916.14 --> 4917.10] And like Him, -[4917.26 --> 4917.40] then, -[4917.48 --> 4918.12] we must go -[4918.12 --> 4918.64] and seek -[4918.64 --> 4920.42] and save the lost. -[4920.84 --> 4922.22] Whether it's here -[4922.22 --> 4923.46] in your homes, -[4923.78 --> 4923.98] right, -[4924.02 --> 4924.52] as parents, -[4924.64 --> 4925.64] your first mission field -[4925.64 --> 4926.48] is to your kids. -[4926.94 --> 4928.10] Whether it's in your neighborhoods, -[4928.10 --> 4929.48] your workplaces -[4929.48 --> 4930.72] or your third places -[4930.72 --> 4931.62] and third places -[4931.62 --> 4932.28] is a word -[4932.28 --> 4932.98] for those places -[4932.98 --> 4934.78] that you frequent regularly -[4934.78 --> 4935.26] where you have -[4935.26 --> 4936.36] sort of sub-communities -[4936.36 --> 4937.20] whether it's karate -[4937.20 --> 4938.12] or soccer -[4938.12 --> 4939.38] or Porter's Coffee House -[4939.38 --> 4940.22] up the road. -[4940.42 --> 4941.70] That is your mission field. -[4944.10 --> 4944.66] And, -[4945.32 --> 4946.54] make no mistake, -[4947.68 --> 4948.52] some of you -[4948.52 --> 4949.88] may be, -[4950.00 --> 4951.08] some of you will be -[4951.08 --> 4951.76] called -[4951.76 --> 4953.12] to global mission. -[4954.22 --> 4955.66] Some of you will be called -[4955.66 --> 4957.02] to go around the world -[4957.02 --> 4958.14] with the gospel -[4958.14 --> 4958.62] to help -[4958.62 --> 4959.90] in community -[4959.90 --> 4961.06] or to bring Jesus -[4961.06 --> 4961.62] to a place -[4961.62 --> 4962.38] that He has never -[4962.38 --> 4963.98] yet been brought. -[4965.04 --> 4966.52] According to the Joshua Project, -[4967.42 --> 4968.34] there are over -[4968.34 --> 4970.52] 7,400 -[4970.52 --> 4972.20] unreached people groups -[4972.20 --> 4973.64] still left in the world -[4973.64 --> 4974.18] that make up -[4974.18 --> 4975.40] over 41% -[4975.40 --> 4976.80] of the world's population. -[4977.16 --> 4977.28] Now, -[4977.36 --> 4977.82] unreached -[4977.82 --> 4978.66] is defined as -[4978.66 --> 4979.78] people with like -[4979.78 --> 4981.80] 0.2 or less -[4981.80 --> 4982.56] Christian -[4982.56 --> 4984.40] opportunities -[4984.40 --> 4985.08] for encounter -[4985.08 --> 4986.00] in their communities. -[4986.00 --> 4987.32] The vast majority -[4987.32 --> 4987.98] of these people, -[4988.12 --> 4989.02] 85% -[4989.02 --> 4989.80] of these -[4989.80 --> 4991.18] unreached people groups -[4991.18 --> 4992.46] exist in what's called -[4992.46 --> 4994.60] the 1040 window -[4994.60 --> 4996.00] and less than -[4996.00 --> 4996.98] 10% -[4996.98 --> 4997.60] of current -[4997.60 --> 4998.28] missionary work -[4998.28 --> 4998.78] is done -[4998.78 --> 5000.02] to those people groups. -[5001.04 --> 5002.16] God may call you there. -[5004.42 --> 5004.92] In fact, -[5004.96 --> 5005.54] I pray He does. -[5006.98 --> 5007.84] And I pray that we -[5007.84 --> 5008.86] can support -[5008.86 --> 5009.64] those whom -[5009.64 --> 5010.02] God -[5010.02 --> 5010.82] calls. -[5012.98 --> 5014.14] Let me land this plane. -[5014.14 --> 5016.06] in conclusion. -[5017.78 --> 5018.34] Overall, -[5018.84 --> 5019.40] the state -[5019.40 --> 5020.46] of our mission -[5020.46 --> 5021.36] is -[5021.36 --> 5022.32] strong. -[5023.38 --> 5024.60] But more importantly, -[5025.60 --> 5026.42] the state -[5026.42 --> 5027.00] of our mission -[5027.00 --> 5028.02] is clear. -[5029.02 --> 5029.70] We know -[5029.70 --> 5030.44] who we are -[5030.44 --> 5032.46] and we can be -[5032.46 --> 5033.46] and become -[5033.46 --> 5034.24] more -[5034.24 --> 5034.88] of who God -[5034.88 --> 5035.74] is calling us. -[5035.74 --> 5037.86] We know -[5037.86 --> 5038.94] what we must do -[5038.94 --> 5039.84] and we can -[5039.84 --> 5040.90] trust God -[5040.90 --> 5041.72] to lead us -[5041.72 --> 5042.52] and to complete -[5042.52 --> 5043.02] the work -[5043.02 --> 5043.90] that He began -[5043.90 --> 5044.78] in you. -[5045.78 --> 5046.86] And we know -[5046.86 --> 5047.44] where we -[5047.44 --> 5048.86] must go. -[5049.72 --> 5050.48] And now, -[5051.06 --> 5052.36] we must step. -[5053.84 --> 5054.24] Gather, -[5054.98 --> 5055.40] grow, -[5056.28 --> 5056.62] go. -[5057.62 --> 5057.92] Amen. -[5058.92 --> 5059.60] Let's pray. -[5059.60 --> 5066.00] Lord our God, -[5066.24 --> 5067.96] send us -[5067.96 --> 5068.92] out -[5068.92 --> 5069.92] now. -[5072.60 --> 5073.72] We have gathered. -[5074.52 --> 5075.66] Help us to gather. -[5077.50 --> 5078.84] We have been grown. -[5079.12 --> 5080.34] Help us to continue -[5080.34 --> 5081.90] in our growth. -[5083.00 --> 5083.78] And now, -[5083.88 --> 5084.26] Lord God, -[5084.32 --> 5084.70] we go. -[5086.18 --> 5086.90] Send us out -[5086.90 --> 5087.46] in the power -[5087.46 --> 5088.08] of your name. -[5088.08 --> 5088.74] Send us out -[5088.74 --> 5089.22] on the firm -[5089.22 --> 5089.70] foundation -[5089.70 --> 5091.30] of your word. -[5091.48 --> 5092.40] Send us out -[5092.40 --> 5093.70] with the good news -[5093.70 --> 5094.40] of the gospel -[5094.40 --> 5095.78] to seek and save -[5095.78 --> 5096.28] the lost -[5096.28 --> 5097.48] and to transform -[5097.48 --> 5098.80] communities -[5098.80 --> 5099.60] by revealing -[5099.60 --> 5100.82] your kingdom come -[5100.82 --> 5102.18] and your kingdom -[5102.18 --> 5103.04] coming. -[5104.52 --> 5106.10] This is who we are. -[5107.66 --> 5108.50] Help it also -[5108.50 --> 5110.00] to be who we will become. -[5110.80 --> 5111.74] Jesus Christ, -[5111.88 --> 5112.26] we pray. -[5113.10 --> 5113.42] Amen. -[5118.08 --> 5121.00] Amen. -[5121.00 --> 5122.60] Do not -[5122.60 --> 5123.00] hope for our -[5123.00 --> 5123.56] Lord, -[5123.56 --> 5124.60] love you -[5124.60 --> 5126.92] will comeись -[5126.92 --> 5128.72] again. -[5129.00 --> 5129.62] Amen. -[5129.62 --> 5130.10] Amen. -[5132.50 --> 5132.80] Amen. -[5132.80 --> 5133.12] Amen. -[5133.20 --> 5133.46] Amen. -[5133.46 --> 5134.08] Amen. -[5134.08 --> 5134.10] Amen. -[5134.20 --> 5134.46] Amen. -[5135.12 --> 5135.62] Amen. -[5135.70 --> 5136.26] Amen. -[5136.26 --> 5138.20] Amen. -[5138.20 --> 5140.20] Amen. -[5141.10 --> 5141.46] Amen. -[5141.46 --> 5141.96] Amen. -[5141.96 --> 5142.16] Amen. -[5142.16 --> 5142.36] Amen. -[5142.44 --> 5142.68] Amen. -[5142.68 --> 5142.92] Amen. -[5143.48 --> 5143.84] Amen. -[5143.84 --> 5144.98] Amen. -[5144.98 --> 5147.98] Amen. -[5147.98 --> 5151.20] Lord, I'll reign in me again -[5151.20 --> 5155.22] Lord, I'll reign in me again -[5155.22 --> 5157.76] Lord, reign in me -[5157.76 --> 5160.18] Bleeding in your power -[5160.18 --> 5162.86] Over all my dreams -[5162.86 --> 5165.16] In my darkest hour -[5165.16 --> 5167.72] You are the Lord -[5167.72 --> 5171.06] Of all my days -[5171.06 --> 5174.72] So won't you reign in me again -[5174.72 --> 5186.70] For every heart -[5186.70 --> 5188.92] Of every word -[5188.92 --> 5191.24] In my life, grace, grace -[5191.24 --> 5193.66] The beauty of my Lord -[5193.66 --> 5195.98] Consuming more to me -[5195.98 --> 5198.90] Than any earthly thing -[5198.90 --> 5203.14] So won't you reign in me again -[5203.14 --> 5205.60] Lord, reign in me -[5205.60 --> 5208.14] Reign in your power -[5208.14 --> 5210.64] Over all my dreams -[5210.64 --> 5212.98] In my darkest hour -[5212.98 --> 5215.44] You are the Lord -[5215.44 --> 5218.76] Of all I have -[5218.76 --> 5222.38] So won't you reign in me again -[5222.38 --> 5224.98] Lord, reign in me -[5224.98 --> 5227.38] Reign in your power -[5227.38 --> 5229.80] Over all my dreams -[5229.80 --> 5232.10] In my darkest night -[5232.10 --> 5234.56] You are the Lord -[5234.56 --> 5237.80] Of all I am -[5237.80 --> 5241.38] So won't you reign in me again -[5241.38 --> 5246.26] So won't you reign in me again -[5246.26 --> 5269.80] Our mission is clear -[5269.80 --> 5274.36] But where God is sending us -[5274.36 --> 5276.26] We may not yet know -[5276.26 --> 5278.76] But we go together -[5278.76 --> 5280.86] And we go with God -[5280.86 --> 5285.48] That is an unstoppable force -[5285.48 --> 5287.32] For good in the world -[5287.32 --> 5289.92] So receive the blessing -[5289.92 --> 5292.18] Of our God as we go -[5292.18 --> 5296.14] God goes before you -[5296.14 --> 5297.26] To lead you -[5297.26 --> 5299.72] God goes behind you -[5299.72 --> 5300.88] To protect you -[5300.88 --> 5303.56] God goes beneath you -[5303.56 --> 5304.52] To support you -[5304.52 --> 5306.88] And God goes beside you -[5306.88 --> 5308.06] To befriend you -[5308.06 --> 5311.46] And so do not be afraid -[5311.46 --> 5313.58] Let the blessing of God -[5313.58 --> 5314.54] Come upon you today -[5314.54 --> 5316.52] Do not be afraid -[5316.52 --> 5319.30] Go in peace -[5319.30 --> 5322.18] To love and serve the Lord -[5322.18 --> 5324.38] Amen -[5327.26 --> 5332.00] God goes beyond you -[5332.00 --> 5332.46] Don't be afraid -[5332.46 --> 5333.46] Let you hang out -[5333.54 --> 5334.76] You stand there -[5334.76 --> 5335.30] You may need you -[5335.30 --> 5335.90] To blessing you -[5335.90 --> 5336.28] To inspiration you -[5336.28 --> 5337.00] Let you trust -[5337.00 --> 5337.30] Even the Lord -[5337.30 --> 5337.92] God goes beyond you -[5337.92 --> 5338.58] 發�� -[5338.58 --> 5340.10] fucking -[5340.10 --> 5341.86] In Jesus -[5341.86 --> 5341.90] Who llive you -[5341.90 --> 5342.44] Do not be precedence -[5342.44 --> 5342.70] By a judgment -[5342.70 --> 5343.12] How that does -[5343.12 --> 5343.56] Oh -[5343.56 --> 5344.06] Oh -[5344.06 --> 5344.66] And so do not -[5344.66 --> 5344.92] Give me -[5344.92 --> 5345.48] To -[5345.48 --> 5346.08] Am -[5346.10 --> 5346.22] All -[5346.22 --> 5346.26] You -[5346.26 --> 5347.58] Don't be -[5347.58 --> 5348.42] Or -[5348.42 --> 5348.52] Lord -[5348.52 --> 5349.76] отнош -[5349.76 --> 5350.14] We -[5350.14 --> 5350.72] Place -[5350.72 --> 5351.76] Rich -[5351.98 --> 5352.52] And now -[5352.52 --> 5352.92] Two -[5352.92 --> 5353.12] of -[5353.14 --> 5354.00] justice -[5354.00 --> 5354.50] You -[5354.64 --> 5357.16] Are -[5357.16 --> 5383.16] Now unto the King eternal, unto the King immortal, unto the King invisible, the only wise God. -[5383.16 --> 5413.14] Now unto the King eternal, unto the King immortal, unto the King invisible, the only wise God. -[5413.16 --> 5415.16] The only wise God. -[5417.16 --> 5423.16] The only wise God. -[5423.16 --> 5437.16] Now unto the King, be glory and honor unto the King forever. -[5437.16 --> 5447.16] Until the King, be glory and honor forever. -[5447.16 --> 5449.16] Amen. -[5449.16 --> 5451.16] Amen. -[5451.16 --> 5453.16] Amen. -[5453.16 --> 5455.16] Amen. -[5455.16 --> 5457.16] Amen. -[5457.16 --> 5459.16] Amen. -[5459.16 --> 5469.16] Amen. -[5469.16 --> 5475.16] Amen. -[5475.16 --> 5483.16] Amen. -[5483.16 --> 5484.12] Amen. -[5489.16 --> 5506.16] Look what you've done -[5506.16 --> 5510.64] How could you fall so far? -[5511.32 --> 5513.60] You should be ashamed of yourself -[5513.60 --> 5516.74] So I was ashamed of myself -[5516.74 --> 5519.14] The lies I believed -[5519.14 --> 5523.16] They got some roots, they run deep -[5523.16 --> 5526.24] I let them take a hold of my life -[5526.24 --> 5529.54] I let them take control of my life -[5529.54 --> 5532.42] Standing in your presence, Lord -[5532.42 --> 5534.90] I can feel you digging all the roots up -[5534.90 --> 5538.04] I feel you healing all my wounds up -[5538.04 --> 5540.80] All I can say is hallelujah -[5540.80 --> 5543.74] Look what you've done -[5543.74 --> 5547.70] Look what you've done in me -[5547.70 --> 5551.72] You spoke your truth into the lies -[5551.72 --> 5553.82] I let my heart believe -[5553.82 --> 5556.14] Look at me now -[5556.14 --> 5560.32] Look how you made me new -[5560.32 --> 5566.36] The enemy did everything that he could do -[5566.36 --> 5568.98] Oh, but look what you've done -[5568.98 --> 5573.56] Suddenly all the shame is gone -[5573.56 --> 5576.52] I thought I was too broke and now I see -[5576.52 --> 5580.06] You were breaking new ground inside of me -[5580.06 --> 5582.64] Standing in your presence, Lord -[5582.64 --> 5585.08] I can feel you digging all my roots up -[5585.08 --> 5588.32] I feel you healing all my wounds up -[5588.32 --> 5590.96] All I can say is hallelujah -[5590.96 --> 5593.74] Look what you've done -[5593.74 --> 5597.92] Look what you've done in me -[5597.92 --> 5601.92] You spoke your truth into the lies -[5601.92 --> 5603.92] So let my heart believe -[5603.92 --> 5605.88] Look at me now -[5605.88 --> 5609.88] Look how you made me new -[5609.88 --> 5615.88] Oh, the enemy did everything that he could do -[5615.88 --> 5617.88] Oh, but look what you've done -[5617.88 --> 5619.88] Look what you've done -[5619.88 --> 5621.88] On the cross, in a grave -[5621.88 --> 5624.88] With a stone, thrown away -[5624.88 --> 5627.88] All my debt, it was pain -[5627.88 --> 5630.88] Look what you've done -[5630.88 --> 5633.88] In my heart, in my mind -[5633.88 --> 5636.88] In my soul, in my life -[5636.88 --> 5640.88] With my hands lifted high, I'm singing -[5640.88 --> 5642.88] Look what you've done -[5642.88 --> 5644.88] Look what you've done -[5644.88 --> 5647.88] Look what you've done in me -[5647.88 --> 5651.88] You spoke your truth into the lies -[5651.88 --> 5653.88] I let my heart believe -[5653.88 --> 5656.88] Look at me now -[5656.88 --> 5660.88] Look how you made me new -[5660.88 --> 5665.88] Oh, the enemy did everything that he could do -[5665.88 --> 5668.88] Oh, but look what you've done -[5668.88 --> 5674.30] On a cross, in a grave, with a stone -[5674.30 --> 5679.06] All my way, all my dead, it was pain -[5679.06 --> 5681.96] Look what you've done -[5681.96 --> 5688.20] In my heart, in my mind, in my soul, in my life -[5688.20 --> 5692.06] With my hands lifted high, I'm singing -[5692.06 --> 5694.38] Look what you've done -[5698.88 --> 5728.86] In my heart, in my heart, I'm singing -[5728.88 --> 5731.00] I've been a sinner, been a saint -[5731.00 --> 5737.22] I've been right, I've been so, so wrong -[5737.22 --> 5740.12] Yeah, I made my mistakes -[5740.12 --> 5742.88] I don't know what it's like to be you -[5742.88 --> 5747.88] You don't know what it's like to be me -[5747.88 --> 5752.54] What if we're all the same -[5752.54 --> 5754.82] In different kinds of ways -[5754.82 --> 5757.02] Can you, can you relate? -[5758.88 --> 5762.26] We both know what it's like to be hurt -[5762.26 --> 5767.22] We both know what it's like to feel pain -[5767.22 --> 5771.58] But I think it's safe to say -[5771.58 --> 5774.06] We're on to better days -[5774.06 --> 5776.22] Can you, can you relate? -[5777.12 --> 5778.36] Can you relate? -[5778.36 --> 5783.58] Have you ever been left when you should have been loved? -[5785.44 --> 5788.36] Has there ever been a time when you stayed but you should have run? -[5788.36 --> 5790.98] Cause I've been real, I've been fake -[5790.98 --> 5795.78] Been a sinner, been a saint -[5795.78 --> 5806.30] Attention please everyone, attention please -[5806.30 --> 5807.86] A phone was found -[5807.86 --> 5809.86] Someone has lost their phone -[5809.86 --> 5811.30] I have possession of it -[5811.30 --> 5813.02] You need to prove that it's yours -[5813.02 --> 5815.38] But come and see me if you're missing your phone -[5815.38 --> 5816.00] Thank you -[5816.00 --> 5817.38] You need to be honest -[5817.38 --> 5818.38] I have to be honest -[5818.38 --> 5819.38] I have to be honest -[5819.38 --> 5825.38] We both know what it's like to be hurt -[5825.38 --> 5829.38] We both know what it's like to feel pain -[5829.38 --> 5832.34] But I think it's safe to say -[5832.34 --> 5838.84] We're on to better days -[5838.84 --> 5841.14] Can you, can you relate? -[5841.64 --> 5843.34] Can you relate? diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 3, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 3, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f22c5608568d57106664c89a24cc41add35c7410..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 3, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,51 +0,0 @@ -• Thank you repeated extensively -• Good morning mentioned -• There's a lot of you mentioned -• Hope and hope in the truth discussed -• Repeated phrases: "And we're here" -• The concept of God giving and taking away, as referenced in Genesis 48 -• The importance of humility and endurance in the face of loss or adversity -• Warning against complaining or whining about perceived injustices or privileges lost -• The story of Joseph and its significance for Christians in understanding power, privilege, and place -• The concept of faithfulness in obedience to God's will -• The connection between faithfulness and hope, as seen in the story of Jacob and his blessing of Ephraim and Manasseh -• The idea that faith is demonstrated through actions and testimony, including martyrdom -• The importance of telling one's story of faith and faithfulness, both individually and collectively. -• God's promises are fixed and sure -• Jacob learns that the promises of God are reliable over time -• When God says something, it is as good as done -• Faith means hope because of God's firm and fixed promises -• In times of uncertainty or fear, remembering God's promises can provide comfort and assurance -• The speaker describes a sense of hopelessness and despair, comparing it to being lost in the valley of mourning or experiencing a prolonged dark night of the soul. -• God's promise is offered as a source of comfort and hope, stating that God is who God is and will wipe away every tear from our eyes. -• A reference is made to Revelation 21:4-5, where God makes everything new and promises an end to mourning, crying, or pain. -• The story of Jacob blessing Ephraim over Manasseh is used as a metaphor for God's pattern of choosing the unexpected and doing things that seem impossible. -• This theme is repeated in various biblical stories, including Isaac over Ishmael, Jacob over Esau, and Joseph over Reuben. -• The speaker emphasizes that God does the unexpected and chooses what seems weak or foolish to shame the strong. -• A quote from 1 Corinthians 1:27-31 is referenced, where Paul writes about God choosing the foolish things of the world to shame the wise. -• The idea is reinforced that when we are weak, God's strength is made perfect in us. -• The speaker concludes a series about faith and hope from the life of Jacob. -• They warn against giving up trying due to comparing oneself unfavorably with faith heroes. -• Faith heroes, including biblical figures and individuals from the speaker's congregation, have their own flaws and shortcomings. -• Their stories of faith are primarily about God's faithfulness rather than their own perfection. -• Each week's story of a faith hero is meant to inspire listeners to live out heroic faith in their own lives. -• A "cloud of witnesses" surrounds and commends each other to faith -• One's story is their own, yet God uses it to draw out faith in others -• Faith involves weakness, disobedience, and struggles with God -• Commendable faith pursues God and wrestles with him even in doubt or uncertainty -• God's faithfulness in the face of human unfaithfulness -• The promise that God remains faithful even when humans fail to be faithful -• Faith as confidence in what is hoped for and assurance about what is unseen, rooted in God's faithfulness -• Encouragement to step out in faith and see what God will do -• Prayer for hope, faith, and obedience, using the community of believers to declare God's kingdom -• Invocation -• Song lyrics with repetitive theme of God holding one fast in times of fear and doubt -• Prayer for blessing before service concludes -• Invitation to fellowship time and refreshments after service -• Encouragement to share testimonies of how God has been seen in one's life that week -• Invitation for prayer during fellowship time -• Prayers for God's blessing and protection -• Request to be led, protected, supported, and befriended by God -• Affirmation of faith and trust in God's presence -• Praise and worship of God as the Lord of all -• Repetition of "reign in me" as a request for spiritual guidance and empowerment \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 3, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 3, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 88fe4791b8243378d89be466d18ce3cf9b5588b9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 3, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,917 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 4.98] Music -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[299.98 --> 329.96] Thank you. -[329.98 --> 359.96] Thank you. -[359.98 --> 389.96] Thank you. -[389.96 --> 419.94] Thank you. -[419.94 --> 449.92] Thank you. -[449.94 --> 479.92] Thank you. -[479.94 --> 509.92] Thank you. -[509.92 --> 539.90] Thank you. -[539.92 --> 569.90] Thank you. -[569.92 --> 599.90] Thank you. -[599.90 --> 629.88] Thank you. -[629.88 --> 659.86] Thank you. -[659.88 --> 659.90] Thank you. -[689.88 --> 719.86] Thank you. -[719.88 --> 749.88] Thank you. -[749.88 --> 779.88] Thank you. -[779.88 --> 809.86] Thank you. -[809.88 --> 839.86] Thank you. -[839.88 --> 841.02] Amen. -[869.88 --> 899.86] Thank you. -[899.88 --> 929.86] Thank you. -[929.88 --> 959.86] Thank you. -[959.88 --> 989.86] Thank you. -[989.88 --> 1019.86] Thank you. -[1019.88 --> 1049.86] Thank you. -[1049.88 --> 1079.86] Thank you. -[1079.88 --> 1109.86] Thank you. -[1109.88 --> 1139.86] Thank you. -[1139.86 --> 1169.84] Thank you. -[1169.86 --> 1199.84] Thank you. -[1199.86 --> 1229.84] Thank you. -[1229.86 --> 1259.84] Thank you. -[1259.84 --> 1289.82] Thank you. -[1289.84 --> 1319.82] Thank you. -[1319.84 --> 1349.82] Thank you. -[1349.84 --> 1379.82] Thank you. -[1379.82 --> 1409.80] Thank you. -[1409.80 --> 1439.78] Thank you. -[1439.80 --> 1469.78] Thank you. -[1469.80 --> 1499.78] Thank you. -[1499.80 --> 1529.78] Thank you. -[1529.80 --> 1559.78] Thank you. -[1559.80 --> 1589.78] Thank you. -[1589.80 --> 1619.78] Thank you. -[1619.80 --> 1649.78] Thank you. -[1649.78 --> 1679.76] Thank you. -[1679.76 --> 1709.74] Thank you. -[1709.76 --> 1739.74] Thank you. -[1739.76 --> 1769.74] Thank you. -[1769.76 --> 1799.74] Thank you. -[1799.76 --> 1829.74] Thank you. -[1829.76 --> 1859.74] Thank you. -[1859.76 --> 1889.74] Thank you. -[1889.76 --> 1919.74] Thank you. -[1919.76 --> 1949.74] Thank you. -[1949.74 --> 1979.72] Thank you. -[1979.74 --> 2009.72] Thank you. -[2009.74 --> 2039.72] Thank you. -[2039.74 --> 2069.72] Thank you. -[2069.74 --> 2099.72] Thank you. -[2099.72 --> 2129.70] Thank you. -[2129.72 --> 2159.70] Thank you. -[2159.72 --> 2189.70] Thank you. -[2189.72 --> 2219.70] Good morning. -[2219.70 --> 2249.70] Thank you. -[2249.70 --> 2279.68] Thank you. -[2279.68 --> 2309.66] Thank you. -[2309.68 --> 2339.66] Thank you. -[2339.68 --> 2369.66] Thank you. -[2369.68 --> 2399.66] Thank you. -[2399.68 --> 2429.66] Thank you. -[2429.68 --> 2459.66] Thank you. -[2459.66 --> 2489.64] Thank you. -[2489.66 --> 2519.64] Thank you. -[2519.64 --> 2549.62] Thank you. -[2549.62 --> 2579.60] Thank you. -[2579.62 --> 2609.62] Thank you. -[2609.62 --> 2639.60] Thank you. -[2639.60 --> 2669.58] Thank you. -[2669.58 --> 2699.56] Thank you. -[2699.56 --> 2729.54] Thank you. -[2729.56 --> 2759.54] Thank you. -[2759.54 --> 2789.52] Thank you. -[2789.54 --> 2819.52] Thank you. -[2819.54 --> 2849.54] Thank you. -[2849.54 --> 2879.54] Thank you. -[2879.54 --> 2909.52] Thank you. -[2909.52 --> 2939.50] Thank you. -[2939.52 --> 2969.52] Thank you. -[2969.52 --> 2999.50] Thank you. -[2999.50 --> 3029.50] There's a lot of you. -[3029.50 --> 3059.48] Thank you. -[3059.50 --> 3089.50] Thank you. -[3089.50 --> 3119.48] Thank you. -[3119.48 --> 3149.46] And you. -[3149.46 --> 3179.46] Thank you. -[3179.46 --> 3209.44] Thank you. -[3209.44 --> 3239.42] Thank you. -[3239.42 --> 3269.42] Thank you. -[3269.42 --> 3299.40] And we're here. -[3299.40 --> 3329.40] Thank you. -[3329.40 --> 3359.40] So, -[3359.40 --> 3389.40] hope. -[3389.40 --> 3419.38] hope in the truth. -[3419.40 --> 3449.40] And we're here. -[3449.40 --> 3479.40] And we're here. -[3479.40 --> 3509.38] And we're here. -[3509.38 --> 3539.38] And we're here. -[3539.38 --> 3569.36] And we're here. -[3569.36 --> 3599.36] And we're here. -[3599.36 --> 3629.36] And we're here. -[3629.36 --> 3659.36] And we're here. -[3659.36 --> 3689.36] And we're here. -[3689.36 --> 3719.36] And we're here. -[3719.36 --> 3721.36] And we're here. -[3721.36 --> 3751.36] And we're here. -[3751.36 --> 3781.36] And we're here. -[3781.36 --> 3782.36] And we're here. -[3782.36 --> 3783.36] And we're here. -[3783.36 --> 3811.34] And we're here. -[3811.36 --> 3841.36] And we're here. -[3841.36 --> 3842.36] And we're here. -[3842.36 --> 3843.36] And we're here. -[3843.36 --> 3845.36] And we're here. -[3845.36 --> 3846.36] And we're here. -[3846.36 --> 3847.36] And we're here. -[3847.36 --> 3849.46] And we're here. -[3849.46 --> 3854.36] And we're here. -[3854.36 --> 3858.36] And we're here. -[3858.36 --> 3870.34] and that we could have none again so think about that for your own lives right if everything you -[3870.34 --> 3879.86] have is by grace right if everything you have is a gift from God if you lose it or if God takes it -[3879.86 --> 3894.68] away you can't be mad you can be humble right and you can and you can endure with God because God only -[3894.68 --> 3904.46] does good things but if you get mad when you lose all those things what is that saying about your -[3904.46 --> 3912.84] understanding of power or privilege or place let's take this another step further this is a good -[3912.84 --> 3921.38] reminder for Christians right in the world today because sometimes our complaining about justice -[3921.38 --> 3931.56] issues or our complaining about injustice is actually a veiled lament or a veiled not so veiled whining -[3931.56 --> 3934.12] for a loss of privilege -[3934.12 --> 3942.02] for those of you who will get this reference it's really easy for Christians to sound like a bunch -[3942.02 --> 3952.38] of Karens in the world today and pretend that they don't remember your origins remember where you've -[3952.38 --> 3960.74] come from remember that that it is God who gives and God who takes away blessed be the name -[3960.74 --> 3971.88] of the Lord again back in Genesis 48 let's keep going think of the people who in humility are waiting to enter -[3971.88 --> 3980.92] into the land of promise and Moses is telling them this story from their history right to a people waiting -[3980.92 --> 3985.06] who are waiting to enter into the land this is the people who are waiting to enter into the land this is a -[3985.06 --> 3993.86] lesson regarding the reward to protect Joseph not instigate selling him off into slavery so many years before -[3993.86 --> 4001.98] are punished right in the covenant language of the Old Testament this is about blessings and curses for -[4001.98 --> 4010.86] faithfulness and as a people who are then about to campaign into the land who are about to make war in Canaan this is a -[4010.86 --> 4021.20] really important reminder against the consequences of senseless selfish violence and pride if they are to remain -[4021.20 --> 4034.78] faithful to God the faith of Jacob in Joseph in the blessing of Ephraim and Manasseh serves as what we'll call a watch -[4034.78 --> 4045.82] point a calling out for Israel to be faithful in what comes before them and then for us to be faithful in what comes before us for us to be -[4045.82 --> 4062.78] faithful to God's will in the world this story is told to focus obedience the story is told to focus our faithfulness and really the same is true for all of Hebrews 11 -[4062.78 --> 4080.78] Hebrews 11 right we can read in the very beginning now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see and then note this line from Hebrews 11 this is what the ancients were commended for -[4080.78 --> 4109.78] commended for now that's an important word in this chapter actually it shows up three more times if you were to read the whole thing in verse 4 we read by faith Abel was commended as righteousness in verse 5 Enoch is commended as one who pleases God and then in verse 39 which all of this has been building to these were all that is the people in this list and the ones who didn't make this list -[4109.78 --> 4115.40] these were all that is the most accurate and all different and evidence for that is evident everyone in history -[4115.40 --> 4127.52] and capitons they're sent to this telling us to see andção to these women thathoda in the world of faith and Christian helen m przyron -[4127.54 --> 4134.14] the root of faith archaeth� do you know that the root Greek word so we looked at a Hebrew word and now we're in the new -[4134.14 --> 4142.54] These people are a witness of faith because in their lives they've witnessed the faithfulness of God. -[4143.92 --> 4149.34] And as a witness, their faith is a testimony for you and for me. -[4151.02 --> 4154.54] Now, interestingly, for those of you who are into this sort of thing, -[4154.74 --> 4159.42] marturio is also the word from which we get the English word martyr. -[4159.42 --> 4164.22] A martyr is someone who dies for what they believe. -[4165.38 --> 4169.40] Perhaps the ultimate witness of faith and faithfulness. -[4170.92 --> 4176.02] And so we tell these stories and you tell your stories of faith and faithfulness, -[4176.04 --> 4180.42] even as you fumble forward, in order to focus your faithfulness, -[4181.32 --> 4184.54] in order to make us a better witness to Christ. -[4184.54 --> 4192.02] And so then, how you tell your story matters. -[4194.00 --> 4199.44] Again, let's jump back to Genesis 48 and how this story is told. -[4199.56 --> 4204.32] Remember, you've got a bunch of people standing on the precipice of entering the promised land, -[4204.56 --> 4205.70] war in front of them. -[4206.64 --> 4210.82] And here's how this story is told, because it courses with hope. -[4210.82 --> 4216.98] Jacob begins by remembering God's promise in verse 3 and 4. -[4217.16 --> 4220.66] God Almighty appeared to me at Luz in the land of Canaan, -[4220.76 --> 4222.68] and there he blessed me and said to me, -[4223.14 --> 4226.64] I am going to make you fruitful and increase your numbers. -[4227.02 --> 4228.98] I will make you a community of peoples, -[4229.22 --> 4235.00] and I will give this land as an everlasting possession to your descendants after you. -[4235.00 --> 4241.86] And I imagine that it was hard for Jacob to trust in the promise of God -[4241.86 --> 4244.28] when he heard that Joseph was killed. -[4246.40 --> 4252.00] And yet, fast forward now to Joseph's sons, and he speaks in hope. -[4252.88 --> 4255.44] And then there's more hope in verse 11. -[4255.44 --> 4268.94] That's hope. -[4270.40 --> 4273.46] And then thirdly, we keep going, verse 21, right? -[4273.58 --> 4276.36] On the promises of God, even in the face of death, -[4276.36 --> 4279.66] Israel, Jacob says to Joseph, -[4280.12 --> 4281.48] I am about to die, -[4282.10 --> 4287.04] but God will be with you and take you back to the land of your fathers. -[4288.26 --> 4291.12] God has a plan in the midst of all of this. -[4291.26 --> 4294.38] God has given a promise in the midst of all of this. -[4294.54 --> 4296.26] And so, hope. -[4297.60 --> 4302.16] And for Jacob, what he has begun to learn over the course of his life -[4302.16 --> 4306.66] is that the promises of God are fixed and sure. -[4308.04 --> 4311.18] That's where his hope comes from. -[4312.44 --> 4316.50] He believes that because God said it, it's as good as done. -[4317.42 --> 4322.30] That because God said it, it is accomplished, it is fixed, and it is sure. -[4322.50 --> 4325.54] He said this before, that God cannot lie. -[4326.08 --> 4329.16] It is an ontological, universal impossibility. -[4329.16 --> 4333.00] It would be for God to deny his very nature. -[4333.52 --> 4337.28] For God to lie would be like seeing a pig fly, right? -[4337.30 --> 4337.88] It's impossible. -[4338.92 --> 4343.58] And so, when he says something, when he promises something, -[4343.80 --> 4345.92] it is fixed and sure. -[4346.64 --> 4348.38] You could take that to the bank. -[4349.82 --> 4354.52] Now again, think about this people who are standing on the precipice of this new land, -[4354.52 --> 4359.04] who are standing ready to enter into this promise, -[4359.16 --> 4361.70] who are about to war over what God has said. -[4362.06 --> 4363.12] And think about that. -[4363.24 --> 4367.28] The next time you are facing something that you are unsure of, -[4367.44 --> 4369.34] the next time that you are afraid, -[4370.16 --> 4372.22] the next time that you have to go to the hospital, -[4372.66 --> 4374.64] or on Tuesday when you start school. -[4374.64 --> 4380.88] Sometimes, sometimes when I do counseling, -[4381.62 --> 4384.86] I get people to remember, -[4385.52 --> 4387.34] and then even to memorize, -[4387.86 --> 4391.36] what God says to you about you. -[4392.08 --> 4392.52] Right? -[4392.56 --> 4393.64] About who he is, -[4393.76 --> 4397.16] and about what that means for who you are. -[4398.10 --> 4398.30] Right? -[4398.30 --> 4400.88] And sometimes we need to memorize these truths, -[4400.88 --> 4403.54] so that we can preach it to ourselves, -[4403.54 --> 4404.90] when that shame voice, -[4405.04 --> 4406.04] or that guilt voice, -[4406.12 --> 4407.10] or that fear voice, -[4407.18 --> 4409.74] or that voice that says that you are worthless. -[4410.24 --> 4410.38] Right? -[4410.42 --> 4411.90] When that gets so loud, -[4412.20 --> 4414.78] sometimes we need the voice of God to break through. -[4415.34 --> 4416.60] And the only way we can do that, -[4416.66 --> 4417.78] is if we have it in our heads, -[4417.96 --> 4418.84] and in our hearts. -[4420.22 --> 4422.10] And so we share texts like this. -[4423.24 --> 4425.52] My God will meet all your needs, -[4425.52 --> 4429.64] according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. -[4429.64 --> 4431.64] Remember, God said it. -[4432.52 --> 4433.22] It's done. -[4434.30 --> 4435.98] It's fixed and sure. -[4437.18 --> 4439.00] Never will I leave you. -[4439.66 --> 4441.40] Never will I forsake you. -[4442.48 --> 4443.18] God said it. -[4443.68 --> 4444.36] It's done. -[4445.16 --> 4445.94] It's fixed. -[4446.56 --> 4447.22] It's sure. -[4448.38 --> 4448.54] Right? -[4448.58 --> 4451.90] I can do all things through him who gives me strength. -[4452.04 --> 4452.86] God said it. -[4453.56 --> 4454.34] It's done. -[4454.34 --> 4457.46] And we know that in all things, -[4457.56 --> 4459.88] God works for the good of those who love him, -[4459.94 --> 4462.42] who have been called according to his purpose. -[4462.60 --> 4463.34] God said it. -[4463.98 --> 4464.74] It's done. -[4465.96 --> 4467.52] And this one, Isaiah 46, -[4467.74 --> 4470.42] which we heard from John a couple weeks ago. -[4470.42 --> 4473.80] Even to your old age and gray hairs, -[4473.98 --> 4475.28] I am he. -[4475.78 --> 4477.74] I am he who will sustain you. -[4477.82 --> 4478.64] I have made you. -[4478.72 --> 4479.60] I will carry you. -[4479.80 --> 4480.96] I will sustain you. -[4481.02 --> 4483.06] And I will rescue you. -[4483.14 --> 4483.92] God said it. -[4484.58 --> 4485.40] It's done. -[4487.36 --> 4487.48] Right? -[4487.70 --> 4489.66] Faith means hope, -[4490.08 --> 4494.98] because God's promises are firm and fixed and sure. -[4494.98 --> 4499.36] And in the midst of life's chaos or turmoil, -[4500.14 --> 4501.98] no matter how bad things get, -[4502.14 --> 4504.42] God's promises are fixed and firm. -[4504.56 --> 4506.60] They are as good as done. -[4506.72 --> 4509.76] And so maybe as you sit here listening to this, -[4509.80 --> 4511.82] or as you sit at home listening to this, -[4511.92 --> 4514.32] maybe you've been fighting off death -[4514.32 --> 4516.48] for what seems like years, -[4517.20 --> 4519.48] but now the end seems near. -[4519.48 --> 4525.34] Maybe you've been lost in the valley of mourning, -[4525.54 --> 4528.18] or it's been not just a dark night of the soul, -[4528.26 --> 4531.06] but a dark month or a dark year of the soul. -[4531.34 --> 4534.36] Maybe you've been crying yourself to sleep for weeks -[4534.36 --> 4535.94] because of something that hasn't happened. -[4536.30 --> 4537.58] Maybe you've lived in pain -[4537.58 --> 4539.42] because of an injury or an infection, -[4539.42 --> 4542.10] and now all you can think and experience -[4542.10 --> 4545.06] in your ordinary life is that life is pain. -[4547.38 --> 4548.88] If any of those are you, -[4549.48 --> 4553.12] God's promise is true. -[4555.34 --> 4558.22] God is who God is, -[4558.52 --> 4559.94] and so there is hope. -[4561.08 --> 4564.08] He will wipe away every tear from our eyes -[4564.08 --> 4566.10] and there will be no mourning or death -[4566.10 --> 4567.38] or crying or pain -[4567.38 --> 4569.86] for the old order of things has passed away. -[4570.12 --> 4571.92] He who was seated on the throne said, -[4572.06 --> 4574.14] I am making everything new. -[4574.36 --> 4575.62] That's a promise, -[4575.90 --> 4576.82] and that's firm, -[4576.94 --> 4577.96] and that's fixed -[4577.96 --> 4580.18] because God said it. -[4580.48 --> 4581.82] It's done. -[4584.82 --> 4586.12] And now I get it -[4586.12 --> 4587.98] because maybe -[4587.98 --> 4590.54] in the midst of all that, -[4590.92 --> 4592.46] you can't believe it. -[4593.90 --> 4595.56] Maybe whatever you are facing -[4595.56 --> 4597.46] seems so big or so far gone -[4597.46 --> 4598.38] or so impossible -[4598.38 --> 4599.48] or so broken -[4599.48 --> 4601.18] that it just can't be fixed. -[4601.18 --> 4602.90] But again, -[4603.40 --> 4605.70] look at the story of Jacob -[4605.70 --> 4608.14] blessing Ephraim and Manasseh -[4608.14 --> 4610.66] because there's something there for us too. -[4611.10 --> 4611.88] Because you see, -[4612.20 --> 4614.98] God is a God of the unexpected. -[4615.82 --> 4617.82] He's a God of the impossible. -[4617.82 --> 4621.80] And so in spite of society's expectations, -[4622.14 --> 4625.06] in spite of Joseph's own protests, -[4625.58 --> 4626.78] Israel, Jacob, -[4627.18 --> 4628.86] blesses the younger son -[4628.86 --> 4630.02] over the older. -[4630.16 --> 4632.18] He gives the younger boy prominence -[4632.18 --> 4633.72] and he puts Ephraim -[4633.72 --> 4635.24] before Manasseh. -[4636.02 --> 4636.92] Now we've seen this -[4636.92 --> 4637.74] in this series, -[4637.84 --> 4638.22] have we not? -[4638.56 --> 4638.76] Right? -[4638.80 --> 4639.86] This has been God's pattern -[4639.86 --> 4640.98] for four generations -[4640.98 --> 4641.62] in Genesis. -[4641.90 --> 4644.04] God put Isaac over Ishmael, -[4644.14 --> 4645.82] he put Jacob over Esau, -[4645.82 --> 4647.00] Joseph over Reuben, -[4647.26 --> 4649.88] and now Ephraim over Manasseh. -[4650.00 --> 4651.92] All of them younger sons -[4651.92 --> 4653.32] over the oldest. -[4654.78 --> 4655.16] Right? -[4655.22 --> 4656.06] This is the inversion -[4656.06 --> 4657.40] of primogeniture. -[4657.52 --> 4658.26] We've talked about it before. -[4658.40 --> 4660.44] God does the unexpected. -[4662.26 --> 4663.22] Or to put it -[4663.22 --> 4664.66] in the language -[4664.66 --> 4665.42] of the New Testament, -[4666.78 --> 4668.42] God chose the foolish things -[4668.42 --> 4669.04] of the world -[4669.04 --> 4670.10] to shame the wise. -[4670.58 --> 4672.26] The weak things of the world -[4672.26 --> 4673.70] to shame the strong. -[4673.70 --> 4675.88] And that is why, -[4676.06 --> 4676.82] for Christ's sake, -[4676.92 --> 4678.06] I delight in weaknesses, -[4678.38 --> 4679.12] in insults, -[4679.16 --> 4679.60] in hardships, -[4679.76 --> 4680.48] in persecutions, -[4680.60 --> 4681.24] in difficulties. -[4681.50 --> 4683.02] For when I am weak, -[4683.36 --> 4685.56] then I am strong. -[4686.92 --> 4688.74] For no word of God -[4688.74 --> 4690.44] will ever fail. -[4691.94 --> 4693.10] With man, -[4693.26 --> 4694.22] this is impossible, -[4694.84 --> 4696.96] but not with God. -[4697.42 --> 4699.08] All things are possible -[4699.08 --> 4700.26] with God. -[4700.26 --> 4702.40] As with Ephraim -[4702.40 --> 4703.20] over Manasseh, -[4703.50 --> 4705.20] God does the unexpected. -[4706.04 --> 4706.42] And so, -[4706.62 --> 4707.26] with God, -[4707.34 --> 4708.30] in whatever your life -[4708.30 --> 4710.04] is in the middle of, -[4710.34 --> 4711.72] expect the unexpected. -[4715.62 --> 4717.08] Because that's who God is. -[4718.06 --> 4719.24] And He can't deny Himself. -[4719.90 --> 4721.78] He can't deny His nature. -[4722.36 --> 4723.26] And that's what He does. -[4723.26 --> 4727.84] And I want to conclude this morning -[4727.84 --> 4729.82] with one last lesson -[4729.82 --> 4731.06] about faith and hope -[4731.06 --> 4732.84] and God -[4732.84 --> 4734.04] from the life of Jacob. -[4735.42 --> 4736.28] Because you see, -[4737.24 --> 4739.00] what can so easily happen, -[4739.08 --> 4740.60] and what I'm afraid happens -[4740.60 --> 4742.72] after a series like this, -[4743.12 --> 4744.38] after we hear stories -[4744.38 --> 4745.40] of great faith, -[4745.74 --> 4747.14] and as we lift up people -[4747.14 --> 4748.68] who have been great examples -[4748.68 --> 4749.92] to us, -[4749.92 --> 4750.88] I'm afraid -[4750.88 --> 4752.80] that some of us -[4752.80 --> 4753.88] might have the opposite -[4753.88 --> 4755.72] of the intended impact. -[4756.94 --> 4758.36] And we might hear stories -[4758.36 --> 4759.18] like that and go, -[4759.60 --> 4760.78] I could never be like that. -[4761.58 --> 4762.90] I could never do that. -[4763.56 --> 4764.42] I would never be -[4764.42 --> 4765.26] that kind of person -[4765.26 --> 4765.80] to someone. -[4766.72 --> 4767.88] And so we give up. -[4768.56 --> 4769.40] We stop trying. -[4770.14 --> 4771.30] But here's what we need to see. -[4771.68 --> 4771.78] Okay? -[4772.68 --> 4774.50] All of these faith heroes -[4774.50 --> 4775.22] that we've looked at -[4775.22 --> 4775.62] this summer, -[4775.92 --> 4777.40] even the amazing people -[4777.40 --> 4778.88] that we have talked about -[4778.88 --> 4780.32] from our own lives. -[4780.44 --> 4781.46] All of them -[4781.46 --> 4782.92] are at one point or another -[4782.92 --> 4784.82] dubious characters. -[4786.98 --> 4787.42] Right? -[4787.48 --> 4788.90] With the exception of Enoch, -[4789.14 --> 4791.62] we know that everyone -[4791.62 --> 4792.96] on this list -[4792.96 --> 4795.50] just aren't good people -[4795.50 --> 4796.34] all the time. -[4797.62 --> 4798.78] Now, we can guarantee -[4798.78 --> 4799.96] that Enoch wasn't -[4799.96 --> 4800.76] because he was also -[4800.76 --> 4801.50] impacted by the fall. -[4801.56 --> 4802.04] We just don't know -[4802.04 --> 4803.46] the details of his story. -[4804.28 --> 4804.98] But for instance, -[4805.16 --> 4806.38] Noah, he grumbled. -[4806.38 --> 4808.64] He got drunk. -[4809.14 --> 4810.18] And he passed out. -[4811.34 --> 4812.56] Abraham lied -[4812.56 --> 4814.14] multiple times. -[4814.80 --> 4815.68] Sarah laughed -[4815.68 --> 4816.78] at God's ability -[4816.78 --> 4817.58] and his power. -[4817.96 --> 4818.76] Isaac lied -[4818.76 --> 4819.80] just like his dad. -[4820.58 --> 4821.36] Jacob cheated -[4821.36 --> 4822.56] and he ankle-grabbed -[4822.56 --> 4823.90] his way through life -[4823.90 --> 4825.08] over and over again. -[4825.40 --> 4827.12] Moses had anger problems. -[4827.24 --> 4827.84] He killed a man. -[4828.96 --> 4829.80] Rahab, too, -[4829.88 --> 4830.70] was a sex worker -[4830.70 --> 4831.80] and a liar. -[4832.16 --> 4832.26] Right? -[4832.32 --> 4833.60] Every one of these people -[4833.60 --> 4834.50] that we've looked at -[4834.50 --> 4835.84] fall short. -[4838.88 --> 4840.30] But it's not about them. -[4842.16 --> 4842.36] Right? -[4842.42 --> 4843.08] Their faith -[4843.08 --> 4844.58] is first and foremost -[4844.58 --> 4846.50] about God's faithfulness. -[4847.64 --> 4847.78] Right? -[4847.84 --> 4849.34] Their stories of faith -[4849.34 --> 4850.82] fuel our faith -[4850.82 --> 4851.50] and then now -[4851.50 --> 4853.20] your stories of faith -[4853.20 --> 4854.68] fuel my faith -[4854.68 --> 4856.54] because they all -[4856.54 --> 4858.08] reveal a God -[4858.08 --> 4860.08] who is faithful. -[4860.08 --> 4864.36] And so each week -[4864.36 --> 4866.52] as we look at a story -[4866.52 --> 4867.38] of a faith hero -[4867.38 --> 4869.12] we end by talking -[4869.12 --> 4870.02] about a person -[4870.02 --> 4870.46] who has been -[4870.46 --> 4871.36] that kind of example -[4871.36 --> 4871.76] to us -[4871.76 --> 4872.78] who has shown -[4872.78 --> 4874.36] us heroic faith -[4874.36 --> 4875.04] in our lives. -[4875.14 --> 4876.02] We've heard this sort -[4876.02 --> 4877.20] of testimony -[4877.20 --> 4877.92] right? -[4877.98 --> 4878.46] Of a faith -[4878.46 --> 4879.34] that is commended -[4879.34 --> 4880.46] to us. -[4881.46 --> 4882.86] And on this last Sunday -[4882.86 --> 4886.00] you -[4886.00 --> 4888.70] are that story. -[4888.70 --> 4891.06] You -[4891.06 --> 4893.56] are those people. -[4894.72 --> 4894.96] You -[4894.96 --> 4896.26] are the great -[4896.26 --> 4897.36] cloud of witnesses -[4897.36 --> 4898.74] that surround -[4898.74 --> 4899.46] one another -[4899.46 --> 4900.84] that champion -[4900.84 --> 4901.92] each other -[4901.92 --> 4903.24] to fix our eyes -[4903.24 --> 4903.88] on Jesus. -[4904.16 --> 4904.40] You -[4904.40 --> 4905.48] are the great -[4905.48 --> 4906.24] cloud of witnesses -[4906.24 --> 4907.20] that commend -[4907.20 --> 4908.20] each other -[4908.20 --> 4908.98] to faith. -[4910.54 --> 4911.40] As we run -[4911.40 --> 4912.10] this race -[4912.10 --> 4913.06] that was marked -[4913.06 --> 4913.78] out for us -[4913.78 --> 4916.12] your story -[4916.12 --> 4917.54] is the one -[4917.54 --> 4918.22] that matters. -[4918.70 --> 4919.86] Your story -[4919.86 --> 4920.68] is the one -[4920.68 --> 4921.60] that God uses -[4921.60 --> 4922.96] to draw out -[4922.96 --> 4923.68] faith. -[4923.80 --> 4924.64] Your story -[4924.64 --> 4926.22] is your story -[4926.22 --> 4927.08] and your story -[4927.08 --> 4927.88] about God -[4927.88 --> 4928.54] and faith -[4928.54 --> 4929.14] and life -[4929.14 --> 4929.72] and Jesus -[4929.72 --> 4930.70] and church -[4930.70 --> 4931.54] and community -[4931.54 --> 4932.72] that's yours -[4932.72 --> 4933.60] to declare -[4933.60 --> 4934.42] because that's -[4934.42 --> 4935.26] the story -[4935.26 --> 4937.00] God uses. -[4938.10 --> 4938.92] In all your -[4938.92 --> 4939.56] weaknesses -[4939.56 --> 4940.88] your story -[4940.88 --> 4941.44] of faith -[4941.44 --> 4942.72] is God's story -[4942.72 --> 4943.48] of his strength -[4943.48 --> 4943.90] in you. -[4944.74 --> 4945.60] In all your -[4945.60 --> 4947.14] wandering disobedience -[4947.14 --> 4947.80] your story -[4947.80 --> 4948.30] of faith -[4948.30 --> 4949.38] is God's story -[4949.38 --> 4950.46] of Christ's -[4950.46 --> 4951.54] perfect obedience -[4951.54 --> 4952.76] for you. -[4954.10 --> 4954.90] And in your -[4954.90 --> 4955.44] striving -[4955.44 --> 4956.08] and your -[4956.08 --> 4956.80] stumbling -[4956.80 --> 4957.94] your story -[4957.94 --> 4958.42] of faith -[4958.42 --> 4959.20] is God's -[4959.20 --> 4959.84] story -[4959.84 --> 4960.76] of his plan -[4960.76 --> 4961.98] and his purpose -[4961.98 --> 4963.52] through you. -[4963.52 --> 4964.52] faith -[4964.52 --> 4965.52] is God's -[4965.52 --> 4966.18] God's story -[4966.18 --> 4967.30] Now you probably -[4967.30 --> 4967.72] know -[4967.72 --> 4969.12] many of you -[4969.12 --> 4970.60] that Jacob's name -[4970.60 --> 4971.74] was changed -[4971.74 --> 4972.46] to Israel. -[4972.62 --> 4973.20] We've seen that -[4973.20 --> 4973.94] even as we looked -[4973.94 --> 4974.76] at Genesis 48. -[4974.94 --> 4975.42] That story -[4975.42 --> 4977.06] is told in Genesis 32. -[4977.48 --> 4978.10] You can read it. -[4978.42 --> 4978.90] Israel -[4978.90 --> 4980.86] means in Hebrew -[4980.86 --> 4981.64] struggles -[4981.64 --> 4982.46] with God. -[4983.26 --> 4983.88] It comes from -[4983.88 --> 4984.42] the story -[4984.42 --> 4985.30] where Jacob -[4985.30 --> 4985.82] wrestled -[4985.82 --> 4986.36] with God. -[4987.46 --> 4988.14] So here's -[4988.14 --> 4988.54] what I want you -[4988.54 --> 4988.82] to hear. -[4988.82 --> 4990.56] faith -[4990.56 --> 4991.20] that is -[4991.20 --> 4992.02] commendable -[4992.02 --> 4993.52] is not -[4993.52 --> 4994.42] going to be -[4994.42 --> 4995.42] without struggle. -[4996.20 --> 4996.70] It's not -[4996.70 --> 4997.18] going to be -[4997.18 --> 4997.86] without doubt -[4997.86 --> 4998.74] or questions -[4998.74 --> 4999.44] or faltering. -[5000.20 --> 5000.50] Faith -[5000.50 --> 5001.00] that is -[5001.00 --> 5001.70] commendable -[5001.70 --> 5002.46] is a faith -[5002.46 --> 5003.70] that pursues -[5003.70 --> 5004.34] God -[5004.34 --> 5005.30] that wrestles -[5005.30 --> 5005.90] with him -[5005.90 --> 5007.00] in the midst -[5007.00 --> 5007.60] of those -[5007.60 --> 5008.34] feelings. -[5011.56 --> 5012.88] In 2 Timothy -[5012.88 --> 5014.22] Paul gives -[5014.22 --> 5014.96] these words -[5014.96 --> 5015.46] to his -[5015.46 --> 5015.94] young -[5015.94 --> 5016.64] protege -[5016.64 --> 5017.14] who had -[5017.14 --> 5017.62] questions -[5017.62 --> 5018.14] about what -[5018.14 --> 5018.46] it means -[5018.46 --> 5018.96] to lead -[5018.96 --> 5019.64] and to live -[5019.64 --> 5020.44] in faith -[5020.44 --> 5020.80] about the -[5020.80 --> 5021.54] promises of God. -[5021.64 --> 5022.06] He says -[5022.06 --> 5023.38] if we are -[5023.38 --> 5024.22] faithless -[5024.22 --> 5025.48] he will -[5025.48 --> 5026.48] remain faithful -[5026.48 --> 5027.36] for he -[5027.36 --> 5027.98] cannot -[5027.98 --> 5028.70] disown -[5028.70 --> 5029.60] himself. -[5030.82 --> 5031.54] God -[5031.54 --> 5032.08] said it. -[5032.94 --> 5033.68] It's -[5033.68 --> 5033.94] done. -[5035.62 --> 5036.34] That's -[5036.34 --> 5037.02] a promise -[5037.02 --> 5037.94] that we -[5037.94 --> 5038.48] can hang -[5038.48 --> 5039.72] our hearts -[5039.72 --> 5040.12] on. -[5040.92 --> 5041.54] That's -[5041.54 --> 5042.62] a reality -[5042.62 --> 5043.50] that -[5043.50 --> 5044.70] changes -[5044.70 --> 5046.08] things -[5046.08 --> 5046.62] for us. -[5046.74 --> 5047.10] That's -[5047.10 --> 5047.92] why we -[5047.92 --> 5048.34] can -[5048.34 --> 5048.94] have -[5048.94 --> 5049.68] hope. -[5050.82 --> 5051.12] Faith -[5051.12 --> 5051.50] is -[5051.50 --> 5052.36] confidence -[5052.36 --> 5052.86] in what -[5052.86 --> 5053.20] we hope -[5053.20 --> 5053.48] for -[5053.48 --> 5053.76] and an -[5053.76 --> 5054.28] assurance -[5054.28 --> 5055.00] about what -[5055.00 --> 5055.26] we do -[5055.26 --> 5055.66] not see -[5055.66 --> 5056.32] because -[5056.32 --> 5057.10] God -[5057.10 --> 5057.84] is -[5057.84 --> 5058.90] faithful. -[5060.70 --> 5061.20] And so -[5061.20 --> 5063.02] step out -[5063.02 --> 5063.26] of the -[5063.26 --> 5063.54] boat. -[5066.04 --> 5066.96] Step out -[5066.96 --> 5067.20] of the -[5067.20 --> 5067.48] boat -[5067.48 --> 5068.58] and see -[5068.58 --> 5070.04] God. -[5071.34 --> 5072.00] Step out -[5072.00 --> 5072.42] of the boat -[5072.42 --> 5073.12] in faith -[5073.12 --> 5074.62] and with hope -[5074.62 --> 5076.06] and see -[5076.06 --> 5077.32] what God -[5077.32 --> 5078.30] will do. -[5079.08 --> 5079.84] Because the -[5079.84 --> 5080.22] end of the -[5080.22 --> 5080.62] story -[5080.62 --> 5081.86] is this. -[5082.54 --> 5083.04] God -[5083.04 --> 5084.18] is -[5084.18 --> 5085.48] faithful. -[5086.54 --> 5086.80] Amen. -[5087.34 --> 5088.12] Let's pray -[5088.12 --> 5088.44] together. -[5091.14 --> 5091.90] Faithful, -[5092.56 --> 5092.98] holy -[5092.98 --> 5093.76] God, -[5094.96 --> 5095.46] fuel -[5095.46 --> 5096.78] our hope -[5096.78 --> 5097.66] in the world -[5097.66 --> 5098.46] as we share -[5098.46 --> 5099.66] stories of life -[5099.66 --> 5100.34] and faith -[5100.34 --> 5101.04] together. -[5101.26 --> 5101.98] Use us, -[5102.10 --> 5103.68] even us, -[5104.16 --> 5105.26] to declare -[5105.26 --> 5106.02] your kingdom -[5106.02 --> 5106.88] come and -[5106.88 --> 5107.52] your kingdom -[5107.52 --> 5108.42] coming. -[5109.94 --> 5111.40] Use these -[5111.40 --> 5112.76] faith stories -[5112.76 --> 5113.22] here, -[5113.40 --> 5114.26] cultivated in -[5114.26 --> 5114.94] this room -[5114.94 --> 5115.50] today, -[5116.00 --> 5117.32] to stir -[5117.32 --> 5118.36] up and -[5118.36 --> 5118.98] spur -[5118.98 --> 5120.56] on our -[5120.56 --> 5121.40] lives of -[5121.40 --> 5122.28] faith and -[5122.28 --> 5123.34] faithful obedience -[5123.34 --> 5124.08] together. -[5124.08 --> 5124.16] Father, -[5124.88 --> 5127.50] whether we -[5127.50 --> 5128.40] are standing -[5128.40 --> 5128.84] in the -[5128.84 --> 5129.34] valley of -[5129.34 --> 5129.78] the shadow -[5129.78 --> 5130.32] or you -[5130.32 --> 5131.02] are calling -[5131.02 --> 5131.88] us to -[5131.88 --> 5132.84] enter a -[5132.84 --> 5133.32] land we -[5133.32 --> 5133.82] know not -[5133.82 --> 5134.22] of, -[5135.36 --> 5136.18] may we -[5136.18 --> 5137.32] go in -[5137.32 --> 5138.98] hope and -[5138.98 --> 5139.70] in confidence -[5139.70 --> 5140.68] because of -[5140.68 --> 5141.60] who you -[5141.60 --> 5144.08] are and -[5144.08 --> 5144.94] because of -[5144.94 --> 5145.92] who you -[5145.92 --> 5147.02] have declared -[5147.02 --> 5148.50] us to -[5148.50 --> 5148.76] be. -[5149.66 --> 5150.10] In the -[5150.10 --> 5150.32] name of -[5150.32 --> 5150.96] Jesus Christ, -[5151.12 --> 5151.50] we pray. -[5152.34 --> 5152.76] Amen. -[5154.08 --> 5164.16] Please stand -[5164.16 --> 5164.66] with us. -[5178.34 --> 5180.06] When I -[5180.06 --> 5181.04] fear my -[5181.04 --> 5183.34] faithful faith, -[5183.34 --> 5185.00] Christ will -[5185.00 --> 5185.90] hold me -[5185.90 --> 5187.18] fast. -[5187.82 --> 5188.82] When the -[5188.82 --> 5189.68] tenter -[5189.68 --> 5190.34] will -[5190.34 --> 5191.42] prevail, -[5192.56 --> 5193.68] he will -[5193.68 --> 5194.72] hold me -[5194.72 --> 5195.98] fast. -[5196.62 --> 5197.66] I could -[5197.66 --> 5198.42] never -[5198.42 --> 5199.30] keep -[5199.30 --> 5199.64] the -[5199.64 --> 5200.72] Lord, -[5201.42 --> 5201.92] through -[5201.92 --> 5202.42] thy -[5202.42 --> 5203.22] fearful -[5203.22 --> 5204.80] path, -[5205.30 --> 5205.76] for -[5205.76 --> 5206.22] my -[5206.22 --> 5207.18] love is -[5207.18 --> 5208.04] after -[5208.04 --> 5209.10] Lord, -[5210.00 --> 5210.96] he will -[5210.96 --> 5211.96] hold me -[5211.96 --> 5212.96] fast. -[5212.96 --> 5216.80] He will -[5216.80 --> 5218.14] hold me -[5218.14 --> 5219.34] fast. -[5219.34 --> 5220.80] He will -[5220.80 --> 5222.18] hold me -[5222.18 --> 5223.30] fast. -[5223.30 --> 5224.24] For -[5224.24 --> 5224.80] thy -[5224.80 --> 5225.44] Savior -[5225.44 --> 5226.84] loves me -[5226.84 --> 5228.30] so. -[5228.72 --> 5229.82] He will -[5229.82 --> 5231.34] hold me -[5231.34 --> 5233.02] fast. -[5233.02 --> 5234.68] will -[5234.68 --> 5251.60] ensure -[5258.60 --> 5259.64] by -[5259.64 --> 5260.78] come -[5260.78 --> 5264.58] God, then my soul be lost. -[5264.88 --> 5268.60] His promises shall last. -[5269.08 --> 5273.32] But I live and start to pass. -[5273.32 --> 5276.82] He will hold me fast. -[5279.70 --> 5283.32] He will hold me fast. -[5283.66 --> 5287.16] He will hold me fast. -[5287.16 --> 5291.30] For my Savior must be so. -[5292.36 --> 5296.60] He will hold me fast. -[5305.62 --> 5311.38] For my life he bled and died. -[5311.80 --> 5315.52] Christ will hold me fast. -[5315.52 --> 5319.52] Justice has been satisfied. -[5321.32 --> 5324.52] He will hold me fast. -[5325.28 --> 5329.52] Raised with him to endless life. -[5330.66 --> 5333.52] He will hold me fast. -[5334.68 --> 5338.52] Till our faith is turned to side. -[5338.52 --> 5342.52] When he called and died. -[5342.52 --> 5344.52] He will hold me fast. -[5344.52 --> 5349.52] He will hold me fast. -[5349.52 --> 5353.52] He will hold me fast. -[5353.52 --> 5357.52] For my Savior loves me so. -[5357.52 --> 5361.52] He will hold me fast. -[5361.52 --> 5363.52] He will hold me fast. -[5363.52 --> 5368.52] He will hold me fast. -[5368.52 --> 5372.52] He will hold me fast. -[5372.52 --> 5376.52] For my Savior loves me so. -[5376.52 --> 5382.52] He will hold me fast. -[5382.52 --> 5383.52] He will hold me fast. -[5383.52 --> 5384.52] He will hold me fast. -[5384.52 --> 5386.52] For my Savior loves me so. -[5386.52 --> 5388.52] He will hold me fast. -[5388.52 --> 5389.52] He will hold me fast. -[5389.52 --> 5402.64] Before we receive God's blessing, just one quick word of encouragement. -[5402.64 --> 5410.64] Everyone is invited and please welcome if you're a guest here with us, especially to stick around following our worship. -[5410.64 --> 5412.64] We have some fellowship time. -[5412.64 --> 5414.64] There's coffee and some refreshments. -[5414.64 --> 5416.64] And so please stick around for that. -[5416.64 --> 5426.64] But I encourage you, as you chat together, ask, how have you seen God this past week? -[5426.64 --> 5433.64] Or if you get asked that question and you don't have an answer, maybe take a risk and share. -[5433.64 --> 5436.64] This is where I need to see God. -[5436.64 --> 5441.64] And maybe, just maybe, pray together. -[5441.64 --> 5446.64] If you would like prayer, there's going to be someone up here after service with the name tag on. -[5446.64 --> 5449.64] They'd love to meet you and pray with you. -[5449.64 --> 5460.64] But as we fellowship together, make that about more than, I'm going to say, average church coffee. -[5460.64 --> 5464.64] Make it about life and faith and hope. -[5464.64 --> 5473.64] And then also, as you go, remember, baseball, softball is happening following service at Topham Park. -[5473.64 --> 5477.64] We hope to throw first pitch around 1230. -[5477.64 --> 5484.64] And so if you need to run home and get changed or the like, or Andre's already got his jersey on, so he's ready to go. -[5484.64 --> 5489.64] Please meet us over at Topham Park there. -[5489.64 --> 5494.64] Receive God's blessing for the week ahead. -[5494.64 --> 5498.64] God, go before you to lead you. -[5498.64 --> 5501.64] God, go behind you to protect you. -[5501.64 --> 5504.64] God, go beneath you to support you. -[5504.64 --> 5507.64] And God, go beside you to befriend you. -[5507.64 --> 5510.64] Do not be afraid. -[5510.64 --> 5513.64] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5513.64 --> 5515.64] Do not be afraid. -[5515.64 --> 5522.64] But go in hope and faith to love and serve the Lord. -[5522.64 --> 5524.64] Amen. -[5531.64 --> 5535.64] I will go on the earth, you will wait on high. -[5535.64 --> 5543.64] Every mountain stream, every sunset's night. -[5543.64 --> 5552.92] Oh, Lord, we live with you, we'll reign on high -[5552.92 --> 5557.70] Every mountain stream, every sunset sky -[5557.70 --> 5562.64] But my one request, Lord, my holy name -[5562.64 --> 5569.80] I'm so to reign in me, Lord, reign in me -[5569.80 --> 5574.80] Reign in your crown, over all my dreams -[5574.80 --> 5583.02] In my darkest hour, you are the Lord of all I am -[5583.02 --> 5587.02] So you reign in me again -[5587.02 --> 5601.02] Over every cross, over every word -[5601.68 --> 5606.02] In my mind return, the beauty of my Lord -[5606.02 --> 5611.02] Excuse me, Lord, to me, than any earthly prayer -[5611.02 --> 5620.02] So won't you reign in me, reign in your crown -[5620.02 --> 5626.02] Over all my dreams, in my darkest hour -[5626.02 --> 5631.02] You are the Lord of all I am -[5631.02 --> 5635.02] So won't you reign in me again -[5635.02 --> 5636.02] So won't you reign in me again -[5636.02 --> 5640.02] Lord, reign in me, reign in your crown -[5640.02 --> 5644.02] Over all my dreams, in my darkest hour -[5644.02 --> 5650.02] You are the Lord of all I am -[5650.02 --> 5654.02] So won't you reign in me again -[5654.02 --> 5658.02] So won't you reign in me again -[5658.02 --> 5660.02] So won't you reign in me again -[5660.02 --> 5665.02] So won't you reign in me again -[5665.02 --> 5667.02] So won't you reign in me again -[5688.02 --> 5692.02] Maß Krysq erlebt you reign in me -[5692.02 --> 5695.04] So won't you reign in me again -[5695.04 --> 5696.02] So won't you reigns -[5696.02 --> 5697.02] See you here -[5697.02 --> 5698.02] Thatкрpes theternat -[5698.02 --> 5699.02] She's leading the church -[5699.02 --> 5701.02] Dy clinium -[5702.02 --> 5703.02] 看 içerisive -[5703.02 --> 5704.98] Viewer -[5705.02 --> 5707.34] Entenc esses -[5708.02 --> 5708.78] Frank -[5709.02 --> 5709.24] 악 -[5709.24 --> 5710.60] A -[5710.82 --> 5712.02] Y -[5712.02 --> 5714.02] Jul -[5714.02 --> 5716.02] High -[5716.02 --> 5746.00] Thank you. -[5746.02 --> 5776.00] Thank you. -[5776.02 --> 5778.02] Thank you. -[5806.02 --> 5808.02] Thank you. -[5836.02 --> 5838.02] Thank you. -[5866.02 --> 5868.02] Thank you. -[5896.02 --> 5898.02] Thank you. -[5926.02 --> 5928.02] Thank you. -[5956.02 --> 5958.02] Thank you. -[5986.02 --> 5988.02] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 4, 2022_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 4, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0e11a95672f43cfbc719b326c8c37fa916292df3..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 4, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,114 +0,0 @@ -• The Master/Savior/God's intervention in the speaker's life -• Redemption from sin and death -• Faith and trust in God's promises and plan -• Miracles and provision despite adversity -• The church service announcement and youth pastor's introduction -• Upcoming baseball and potluck picnic event -• Reactivate youth conference is happening next weekend at Willowby -• Volunteering opportunities available for the conference and other church events -• Over 150 youth from across BC are attending the Reactivate conference -• Announcements about volunteering in various capacities, including GEMS counselors and Children's Worship Time volunteers -• Upcoming mission fair on September 18th and Safe Church training night on September 19th -• Upcoming church events, specifically Safe Church night -• Call to worship from Isaiah chapter 65 -• Bible readings and quotes (Revelation 1 and Isaiah 65) -• Worship songs and hymns (including "Come Lord Jesus" and "What a Beautiful Name") -• Reflections on the power of God's name and love -• The power of God's name -• Recognition of human need for God -• Confession of sin and shortcomings -• Prayer for mercy, forgiveness, and steadfast love -• Praise of God's faithfulness and character -• Celebration of new blessings and provision in life -• Expression of gratitude and dependence on God -• Worship service recording -• Song lyrics from hymns and praise songs -• Deacon Emo introduces the offering for church budget and Safe Church Ministry -• Details about Safe Church Ministry's goals and activities -• Bible verse reading (Colossians 3:12) -• Announcement of next week's offering for the budget and C10 ministry in Mexico -• Worship service continues with more song lyrics and a guitar solo -• Prayer and blessing for children -• Introduction by Eric Huberts as elder at Emmanuel Church -• Prayer by Eric Huberts for church family and various groups within the community -• Upcoming events and conferences mentioned (Reactivate) -• Introduction by Pastor Chris to the worship service -• Discussion of the transition back into school schedules and ordinary routines -• Invitation to open Bibles to Mark 4 for further study and reflection -• Jesus uses everyday stories with spiritual and theological significance -• Parables are meant to make you rethink your assumptions -• The farmer sowing seed is a parable about how people respond to the word of God -• Parables can be misunderstood or oversimplified due to their metaphorical nature -• The intent of parables is to challenge assumptions and cause confusion, which indicates correct understanding -• The purpose of Jesus' parables is to challenge and deepen understanding, rather than simply present straightforward teachings. -• Parables are meant to be confusing, but this confusion is intended to draw people in, not drive them away. -• Christianity encourages questioning and doubt, and invites people to wrestle with complex issues and ideas. -• The goal of the parables is to reveal truth and understanding, rather than to hide or obscure it. -• The way one approaches the Bible and its teachings matters, including how they hear and interpret Jesus' words. -• Parables, such as the Parable of the Sower, can be misunderstood if taken literally or interpreted superficially. -• The parable of the soils is often misunderstood as being about the sower or farmer rather than the people they represent in life. -• The common interpretation of the farmer simply throwing seed without regard for where it lands is not supported by the text and can lead to a careless approach to sharing the gospel. -• This interpretation can result in absolving oneself of responsibility for discipleship, discipline, and connection with others. -• Discussion of Jesus' point about seeds sown along the path -• Explanation of farming practices in Palestine and Galilee around the time of Jesus -• Description of how a second farmer would follow with a plow to cover seeds -• Understanding why birds can only gather seeds that are not covered by the plow -• Details about the soil in Palestine and Galilee, including its shallow depth and rocky nature -• Comparison to more fertile regions like Glen Valley or Sumas Prairie -• Mention of the possibility of two plows being used in the process -• The parable of the sower and the seed is explained in Jesus' words -• The explanation focuses on the soils where the seed falls, not the farmer or the seed itself -• Three types of people are described based on how they respond to the word: those who hear it along the path, on rocky places, among thorns, or on good soil -• The key is not just hearing the word but having a certain kind of hearing that takes it home and results in fruitfulness -• The four kinds of hearing in a parable -• Seed sown along the path that Satan takes away -• People who don't give the word a chance to root -• Those who dismiss or close themselves off from truth -• Isaiah 6 and its quote about making people's hearts calloused and ears dull -• The Pharisees and teachers of the law missing Jesus as the Messiah -• Missing the truth of the gospel due to conflicting ideas or experiences -• The concept of God revealed in Jesus as a thought experiment -• The idea that some people are like seeds sown on rocky places who hear the word and receive it with joy but quickly fall away when trouble comes -• The distinction between emotional response and authentic belief -• The critique of an evangelical temptation to use emotional responses (such as crying, raising hands, or dancing) as a gauge of authenticity in faith -• The challenge that Jesus' words pose to this idea and the need for a more nuanced understanding of what it means to be a follower of Christ -• The importance of distinguishing between emotional response and authentic faith -• The danger of assuming an emotional response is the only way to affirm one's beliefs -• Jesus' emphasis on authenticity and whether or not someone has truly heard and believed his words -• The difference between feeling something is true and knowing it to be true in one's heart and life -• The need to ask questions about what one is hearing and believing, rather than relying solely on emotional response -• Death or loss and its impact on emotions -• The importance of a strong foundation for faith -• The parable of the third soil and seed sown among thorns -• The contrast between listening to the world and following Jesus -• The counterintuitive economy of the kingdom of Jesus -• Choosing whose word to believe: God's or the world's -• The importance of a community that will ask hard questions and challenge individuals to pursue God's truth -• Obedience as the mark of the "fourth soil" mentioned by Jesus in the parable of the sower -• The role of good soil in receiving the word of God and producing fruit, contrasted with the disobedient or hardened hearts that reject it -• Jesus' declaration that he is the way, truth, and life, and that no one comes to the Father except through him -• Jesus' statement that he has lived the life we should have lived, died the death we deserve for sin, and was raised victorious over sin and death -• The ascension of Jesus and his future return to judge the living and the dead -• The importance of obeying God's word and living according to Jesus' teachings -• The relationship between hearing God's word and obedience, with "hearing" often translated as "obeying" -• The need for a foundational understanding of faith based on obedience rather than emotional responses or experiences -• The expectation that true faith will result in a transformed life, manifesting the image of Jesus -• The ordinary expectation of a disciple to live an obedient and transformed life -• The relationship between belief and obedience -• The idea that belief precedes obedience and that obedience must follow from a genuine belief -• Struggling with sin, doubts, and obedience is a natural part of the Christian life -• The fruit of true belief can take many forms, such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and self-control -• Obedience to God's will is not about earning salvation or avoiding punishment, but about responding in faith to His sovereignty. -• The importance of mastering temptations and desires -• Hearing is more about obeying than feeling -• Responsibility for choosing to obey -• A parable or story can be a powerful tool for capturing one's heart and mind -• Importance of recognizing what is real and being captivated by the beauty of the gospel -• Calling to reveal the kingdom come and produce faithful obedience -• Prayer for living out truth and producing a crop of faithfulness and fruitfulness -• Recitation of a prayer or creed expressing faith in God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit -• Recitation of the Christian creed, including beliefs in Jesus and the Holy Spirit -• Opportunity to share faith with others -• Upcoming events: coffee social, baseball game, potluck picnic at McLeod Park -• Blessing for the congregation before dispersing -• Praise and worship of God's attributes: everlasting, holy, sovereign, faithful, eternal, immortal, invisible \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 4, 2022_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 4, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 04a347ccb02c20d8f8cef6342df11940844194f7..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 4, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2071 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 26.62] Our -[30.00 --> 34.68] He picked me up, He turned me around -[34.68 --> 37.88] He placed my feet on solid ground -[37.88 --> 41.00] I thank the Master, I thank the Savior -[41.00 --> 45.76] Because He killed my heart, He changed my name -[45.76 --> 48.94] Forever free, I am not the Savior -[48.94 --> 52.14] I thank the Master, I thank the Savior -[52.14 --> 54.18] I thank God -[60.00 --> 75.86] And if He did it for me, He can do it for you -[75.86 --> 81.40] If He did it for me, He can do it for you -[81.40 --> 86.44] Get up, get up, get up, get up out of that grave -[86.44 --> 93.88] Get up, get up, get up, get up out of that grave -[93.88 --> 104.22] Get up, get up, get up, get up家 tray -[107.10 --> 113.26] Get up, get up, get up, get up out of that grave -[113.26 --> 134.38] get up get up -[143.26 --> 154.60] Jesus -[173.26 --> 175.26] You can do it again -[203.26 --> 205.26] Oh -[233.26 --> 235.26] You can do it again -[235.26 --> 237.26] Because He killed my heart -[237.26 --> 239.26] Changed my name -[239.26 --> 241.26] Forever free -[241.26 --> 243.26] I love the sin -[243.26 --> 245.26] I thank the Master -[245.26 --> 247.26] I thank the sin -[247.26 --> 249.26] I thank God -[263.26 --> 276.26] We belly -[276.26 --> 278.26] To your bones -[278.26 --> 280.26] into pressure -[280.26 --> 282.26] to entire circumstances -[282.26 --> 285.26] You can figurezugre -[285.26 --> 286.26] i just did -[286.26 --> 288.14] чтобы -[288.58 --> 291.26] a few moments -[291.26 --> 293.90] See a way I don't -[293.90 --> 298.00] And it makes no sense -[298.00 --> 301.20] But you say that's what faith is for -[301.20 --> 307.38] When I see a flood, you see, I promise -[307.38 --> 310.82] When I see a grave, you see a door -[310.82 --> 312.92] When I'm at my end -[312.92 --> 316.48] You see where the future starts -[316.48 --> 321.16] I don't know how you make a way -[321.16 --> 323.36] But I know you will -[323.36 --> 328.56] I don't know how you make a way -[328.56 --> 330.90] But I know you will -[330.90 --> 334.56] You've been good on every promise -[334.56 --> 336.36] From Eden to Zion -[336.36 --> 338.18] Through every dead end -[338.18 --> 340.06] And out of that grave -[340.06 --> 343.06] I don't know how you make a way -[343.06 --> 345.90] But I know you will -[345.90 --> 350.36] When the world's on fire -[350.36 --> 353.88] It's not like you don't have a plan -[353.88 --> 358.94] And when the earth gives way on this rock -[358.94 --> 361.86] Your church will stand -[361.86 --> 367.66] And nothing has ever won't surprise you -[367.66 --> 370.78] Nothing has ever made you finish -[370.78 --> 372.86] To when it all shakes out -[372.86 --> 376.42] The gates of hell don't stand its chance -[376.42 --> 380.76] I don't know how you make a way -[380.76 --> 383.32] But I know you will -[383.32 --> 388.04] I don't know how you make a way -[388.04 --> 391.42] But I know you will -[391.42 --> 394.52] You've been good on every promise -[394.52 --> 396.26] From Eden to Zion -[396.26 --> 397.88] Through every dead end -[397.88 --> 400.04] And out of that grave -[400.04 --> 402.88] I don't know how you make a way -[402.88 --> 405.88] But I know you will -[405.88 --> 412.66] You've pulled my heart from the chain -[412.66 --> 415.98] You've got the road to the sea -[415.98 --> 417.86] From all I've said -[417.86 --> 423.06] Good morning, everyone. -[425.18 --> 426.06] That's pretty good. -[426.56 --> 428.92] It's good to be here in church this morning with you all. -[429.24 --> 430.44] My name is Kevin. -[430.54 --> 432.98] I'm the youth pastor here at Langley Manual CRC. -[433.08 --> 434.74] It's good to see so many of you here today. -[435.20 --> 437.18] Hopefully so many of you online as well. -[437.52 --> 438.94] Before we get started on our service, -[439.00 --> 440.32] I've got a couple of announcements. -[440.32 --> 448.52] The first is that today we are having our baseball and potluck picnic. -[449.10 --> 449.70] That's what it is. -[449.96 --> 451.58] Our baseball and potluck picnic -[451.58 --> 454.46] after the church from 12 till 3 at McLeod Park. -[454.54 --> 455.32] So just down the road. -[456.02 --> 457.80] Some of you have signed up, which is great. -[457.90 --> 458.70] You're going to play baseball. -[458.80 --> 459.50] It's going to be awesome. -[459.80 --> 462.02] If you haven't signed up and still want to play baseball, -[462.56 --> 463.04] absolutely. -[463.30 --> 463.76] Come on out. -[463.84 --> 464.64] Just bring your glove. -[465.08 --> 466.24] Bring a bat if you've got it. -[466.30 --> 466.96] We've got bases. -[467.08 --> 467.62] We've got balls. -[467.68 --> 468.40] It's going to be fun. -[468.40 --> 471.90] And anybody can come and just enjoy the game to watch -[471.90 --> 474.50] or hang out on the side or in the park or whatever. -[474.64 --> 476.06] So if you just want to come and hang out, -[476.38 --> 477.88] spend some time with your church family, -[478.28 --> 479.04] please do come. -[479.10 --> 481.24] We just ask, bring a little food to share -[481.24 --> 483.06] and we will have a good time together that way. -[483.12 --> 484.32] So that's 12 to 3 today. -[484.82 --> 485.72] Rain or rain. -[485.94 --> 487.92] Because it looks like it might rain a little bit. -[488.24 --> 488.90] But that's fine. -[488.94 --> 489.78] We're going to have fun anyways. -[491.66 --> 494.28] Reactivate is a youth conference -[494.28 --> 496.58] happening next weekend at Willowby. -[496.58 --> 498.38] It's hosted by Willowby, -[498.48 --> 500.14] but it's hosted by four of us youth pastors. -[500.30 --> 502.48] We've been putting it on for years now. -[502.60 --> 504.84] That happens next week for the weekend, -[504.96 --> 506.18] Friday to Sunday. -[506.30 --> 507.16] The youth have signed up. -[507.26 --> 508.48] Registration is closed. -[508.84 --> 512.56] However, there are some needs for volunteers. -[512.84 --> 515.18] So if you are able to help out with anything, -[515.56 --> 516.68] we need help in the kitchen. -[516.84 --> 518.74] We need help setting stuff up on certain days, -[518.84 --> 520.38] taking stuff down on certain days. -[520.66 --> 522.00] We need help with security. -[522.32 --> 523.30] We need help with parking. -[523.30 --> 526.34] If there's an area that you think you could help out with, -[526.64 --> 528.90] please check the bulletin that came out the other day. -[528.96 --> 530.10] There's a link you can click. -[530.50 --> 531.76] And there's different time slots -[531.76 --> 533.36] and different things that you can sign up for. -[533.46 --> 534.76] So if that's something you're able to do, -[534.98 --> 536.70] we would value your help for that weekend. -[537.18 --> 539.48] We have over 150 youth from across BC -[539.48 --> 540.54] coming out to this thing. -[540.80 --> 541.70] It's going to be very fun. -[542.10 --> 543.54] Please come and be a part of that. -[543.74 --> 545.34] If you join us for any of the volunteering, -[545.70 --> 546.74] you're also welcome to join us -[546.74 --> 547.96] for any of the general sessions -[547.96 --> 549.34] and hear a speaker -[549.34 --> 550.72] and join us in some worship there too. -[550.72 --> 552.96] So consider doing that, please. -[554.16 --> 555.92] Finally, a couple of announcements -[555.92 --> 557.30] regarding volunteers. -[557.82 --> 559.36] We are looking for a few more volunteers -[559.36 --> 560.36] in different capacities -[560.36 --> 561.86] as our church gets rolling. -[562.00 --> 564.06] Kickoff starts next week, Sunday. -[564.56 --> 565.96] There's an announcement slide looking. -[566.02 --> 567.38] We're looking for some GEMS counselors. -[567.58 --> 568.28] You can talk to Courtney. -[568.36 --> 568.88] She's in the back. -[568.94 --> 569.30] Wave, Courtney. -[570.06 --> 570.96] Everyone say hi, Courtney. -[572.54 --> 573.62] So talk to Courtney -[573.62 --> 575.42] if you can be a GEMS counselor this week. -[575.74 --> 576.56] This year, sorry. -[576.82 --> 577.80] We are also looking for -[577.80 --> 579.16] Children's Worship Time volunteers. -[579.16 --> 580.90] If that's something you can help out with, -[581.16 --> 582.48] you can talk to Amy Hubert, -[582.60 --> 584.20] who I don't see here right now, -[584.30 --> 586.30] but you can come talk to me as well. -[586.86 --> 589.12] We're also looking for one more coordinator -[589.12 --> 590.48] for Children's Worship Time. -[590.70 --> 593.58] So Amy Hubert and Cameron Vischer -[593.58 --> 594.64] are taking that on. -[594.70 --> 595.32] There's two of them. -[595.38 --> 596.48] We are looking for a third -[596.48 --> 597.96] to sort of round out the team. -[598.38 --> 599.42] So a lot of the legwork -[599.42 --> 601.08] has been done to get going on the year, -[601.20 --> 602.90] but we would love one more person -[602.90 --> 604.28] to join that awesome team of two. -[604.36 --> 604.98] So if that's something -[604.98 --> 605.96] you might be interested in, -[606.02 --> 607.10] please come chat with me -[607.10 --> 608.32] about that as well. -[608.74 --> 609.32] And finally, -[609.80 --> 612.34] there will be a mission fair -[612.34 --> 613.18] sort of happening -[613.18 --> 614.72] on September 18th here in church. -[614.78 --> 615.60] So you can kind of see -[615.60 --> 616.92] what's all going on this year. -[617.30 --> 618.26] Sign up for different ministries -[618.26 --> 619.96] you want to attend and volunteer. -[620.64 --> 621.34] And as well, -[621.44 --> 622.46] on the 19th, -[622.46 --> 624.66] there's a Safe Church training night. -[625.12 --> 626.12] And there's also going to be -[626.12 --> 627.30] a second one in October. -[627.50 --> 628.34] So those are mandatory -[628.34 --> 629.64] if you are in a ministry -[629.64 --> 630.86] with youth or young people -[630.86 --> 631.78] or vulnerable people -[631.78 --> 634.96] to sign up for that evening, -[635.04 --> 635.80] that Safe Church evening -[635.80 --> 636.90] on September 19th. -[636.90 --> 637.88] Please talk to Sylvia. -[638.04 --> 638.76] There's Sylvia there. -[638.88 --> 639.38] Wave Sylvia. -[639.48 --> 640.32] Everybody say hi, Sylvia. -[641.52 --> 642.26] Yeah, talk to her. -[642.40 --> 643.76] And then in October, -[643.84 --> 644.38] there's a second one. -[644.42 --> 645.04] So if you can't make -[645.04 --> 645.94] Monday the 19th, -[646.14 --> 647.04] make sure you can make -[647.04 --> 649.16] October's Safe Church night as well. -[649.48 --> 650.58] That is all the announcements -[650.58 --> 651.10] this morning. -[653.32 --> 654.74] I'm going to invite you to stand -[654.74 --> 656.50] and receive God's greeting. -[656.50 --> 663.60] God's greeting this morning -[663.60 --> 665.36] comes from Revelation 1 -[665.36 --> 666.00] where it says, -[666.44 --> 667.78] Grace and peace to you -[667.78 --> 668.82] from him who is -[668.82 --> 669.96] and who was -[669.96 --> 671.32] and who is to come -[671.32 --> 672.92] and from the seven spirits -[672.92 --> 674.08] before his throne -[674.08 --> 675.64] and from Jesus Christ -[675.64 --> 677.24] who is the faithful witness, -[677.72 --> 678.94] the firstborn of the dead -[678.94 --> 679.88] and the ruler -[679.88 --> 681.42] of the kings of the earth. -[682.28 --> 682.56] Amen. -[682.78 --> 683.54] Let's worship together. -[683.54 --> 683.64] Amen. -[683.64 --> 683.72] Amen. -[683.72 --> 683.76] Amen. -[686.50 --> 694.00] Good morning. -[694.40 --> 696.38] Our call to worship this morning -[696.38 --> 699.04] is inspired by Isaiah chapter 65. -[699.96 --> 700.94] Come to the water, -[701.20 --> 702.22] all you who thirst. -[702.58 --> 703.76] Come drink deeply -[703.76 --> 705.02] from the river of life. -[705.76 --> 706.78] Come to the water, -[707.00 --> 708.00] all who are weary. -[708.56 --> 710.24] Come rest in the quiet pools -[710.24 --> 711.12] of God's love. -[711.96 --> 713.04] Come to the water, -[713.04 --> 714.92] all you who long for justice. -[715.46 --> 716.36] Come be renewed -[716.36 --> 718.28] in God's ever-flowing stream. -[719.20 --> 720.94] For God is here among us, -[721.20 --> 722.42] washing away the dust -[722.42 --> 724.22] and grime of our lives -[724.22 --> 725.68] and pouring out the Spirit -[725.68 --> 727.30] on all of us who thirst. -[727.30 --> 740.70] All who are thirsty, -[740.70 --> 751.58] all who are weary, -[751.58 --> 755.48] Come to the fountain -[755.48 --> 761.58] If your heart in the stream of life -[761.58 --> 763.82] And the pain and the sorrow -[763.82 --> 768.32] Be washed away -[768.32 --> 772.54] In the waves of His mercy -[772.54 --> 778.58] As He cries out to thee -[778.58 --> 785.34] We sing, come Lord Jesus, come -[785.34 --> 794.86] Come Lord Jesus, come -[794.86 --> 797.80] You are thirsty -[797.80 --> 803.36] All who are weak -[803.36 --> 806.52] Come to the fountain -[806.52 --> 812.40] If your heart in the stream of life -[812.40 --> 814.96] And the pain and the sorrow -[814.96 --> 819.28] Be washed away -[819.28 --> 823.28] In the waves of His mercy -[823.28 --> 829.16] As He cries out to thee -[829.16 --> 836.16] We sing, Holy Spirit, come -[836.16 --> 846.04] Holy Spirit, come -[846.04 --> 853.04] We sing, come Lord Jesus, come -[853.04 --> 858.04] Come Lord Jesus, come -[858.04 --> 863.92] Lord Jesus, come -[863.92 --> 879.80] We sing, Holy Spirit, come -[879.80 --> 885.68] For the word at the beginning -[885.68 --> 894.24] One with God, the Lord most high -[894.24 --> 900.90] Your hidden glory in creation -[900.90 --> 905.78] Now revealed in you -[905.78 --> 908.66] You are Christ -[908.66 --> 912.62] What a beautiful name it is -[912.62 --> 916.58] What a beautiful name it is -[916.58 --> 923.66] The name of Jesus Christ my King -[923.66 --> 928.54] What a beautiful name it is -[928.54 --> 932.14] Nothing compares to this -[932.14 --> 935.66] What a beautiful name it is -[935.66 --> 939.62] The name of Jesus -[939.62 --> 941.50] Jesus Christ my King -[941.50 --> 945.50] You didn't want heaven -[945.50 --> 947.38] Heaven without us -[947.38 --> 948.38] Heaven without us -[948.38 --> 955.38] So Jesus, you brought heaven down -[955.38 --> 958.26] Your sin was greater -[958.26 --> 959.26] Your sin was greater -[959.26 --> 960.26] Your love was greater -[960.26 --> 962.26] Your love was greater -[962.26 --> 969.26] What could separate us now -[969.26 --> 973.26] What a wonderful name it is -[973.26 --> 977.32] What a wonderful name it is -[977.32 --> 984.26] The name of Jesus Christ my King -[984.26 --> 988.14] What a wonderful name it is -[988.14 --> 988.82] What a wonderful name it is -[988.82 --> 992.30] Nothing compares to this -[992.30 --> 995.66] What a wonderful name it is -[995.66 --> 999.36] The name of Jesus -[999.36 --> 1003.08] What a wonderful name it is -[1003.08 --> 1006.86] The name of Jesus -[1006.86 --> 1036.84] Death is a wonderful name it is -[1036.84 --> 1039.26] Death could not hold you -[1039.26 --> 1042.72] The veil tore before you -[1042.72 --> 1050.22] The silence, the boast of sin and grave -[1050.22 --> 1053.24] The heavens are rolling -[1053.24 --> 1056.76] The praise of your glory -[1056.76 --> 1063.16] For you are raised to life again -[1063.16 --> 1067.04] You have no rival -[1067.04 --> 1069.04] You have no rival -[1069.04 --> 1070.92] You have no equal -[1070.92 --> 1074.04] Now and forever -[1074.04 --> 1078.54] God you reign -[1078.54 --> 1081.48] Yours is the kingdom -[1081.48 --> 1085.14] Yours is the glory -[1085.14 --> 1088.90] Yours is the name -[1088.90 --> 1092.78] The name of Jesus Christ my King -[1092.78 --> 1094.78] What a powerful name it is -[1094.78 --> 1095.98] What a powerful name it is -[1095.98 --> 1098.78] What a powerful name it is -[1098.78 --> 1106.32] The name of Jesus Christ my King -[1106.32 --> 1110.22] What a powerful name it is -[1110.22 --> 1112.90] Nothing can stand against -[1112.90 --> 1116.78] What a powerful name it is -[1116.78 --> 1117.28] What a powerful name it is -[1117.28 --> 1118.28] What a powerful name it is -[1118.28 --> 1119.36] What a powerful name it is -[1119.36 --> 1120.28] The name of Jesus -[1120.28 --> 1123.78] You have no rival -[1123.78 --> 1125.28] You have no rival -[1125.28 --> 1127.32] You have no equal -[1127.32 --> 1131.20] Now and forever -[1131.20 --> 1133.20] God you reign -[1133.20 --> 1137.20] Yours is the kingdom -[1137.20 --> 1138.20] Yours is the kingdom -[1138.20 --> 1140.20] Yours is the glory -[1140.20 --> 1143.20] Yours is the name -[1143.20 --> 1153.08] What a powerful name it is -[1153.08 --> 1155.08] What a powerful name it is -[1155.08 --> 1156.08] What a powerful name it is -[1156.08 --> 1161.08] The name of Jesus Christ my King -[1161.08 --> 1166.08] What a powerful name it is -[1166.08 --> 1177.96] What a powerful name it is -[1177.96 --> 1181.96] What a powerful name it is -[1181.96 --> 1183.96] The name of Jesus -[1183.96 --> 1188.96] What a beautiful name it is -[1188.96 --> 1193.96] The name of Jesus -[1193.96 --> 1195.32] Jesus -[1195.32 --> 1198.78] I invite you to be seated -[1198.78 --> 1206.24] Let's pray together -[1206.24 --> 1212.34] Our Father in Heaven -[1212.34 --> 1215.40] We come before you this morning -[1215.40 --> 1218.06] Recognizing how much we need you -[1218.06 --> 1220.60] How much we need your love -[1220.60 --> 1222.20] Your mercy -[1222.20 --> 1223.84] And your grace -[1223.84 --> 1227.02] God each of us has sinned -[1227.86 --> 1229.32] Whether it be our thoughts -[1229.32 --> 1230.70] Or our words -[1230.70 --> 1231.62] Or our deeds -[1231.62 --> 1233.24] God -[1233.24 --> 1235.86] We are often so busy -[1235.86 --> 1236.86] With what we feel -[1236.86 --> 1238.06] Are the important things -[1238.06 --> 1238.72] In our lives -[1238.72 --> 1241.26] That we fail to recognize you -[1241.26 --> 1243.02] In each of our circumstances -[1243.02 --> 1246.42] Lord we confess -[1246.42 --> 1248.78] We have not loved you -[1248.78 --> 1249.80] With our whole heart -[1249.80 --> 1251.50] Nor served you -[1251.50 --> 1252.38] As we should -[1252.38 --> 1255.32] We have not always loved others -[1255.32 --> 1256.88] As we have loved ourselves -[1256.88 --> 1260.10] We have not always been salt -[1260.10 --> 1261.44] And light in this world -[1261.44 --> 1263.34] Father God -[1263.34 --> 1265.78] Through Jesus we pray for mercy -[1265.78 --> 1267.46] We pray for forgiveness -[1267.46 --> 1271.00] We thank you for your steadfast love -[1271.00 --> 1273.56] And mercies that never cease -[1273.56 --> 1276.16] And are new every morning -[1276.16 --> 1279.28] Great is your faithfulness -[1279.28 --> 1279.76] Oh God -[1279.76 --> 1282.00] In Jesus name alone we pray -[1282.00 --> 1282.94] Amen -[1282.94 --> 1293.98] Great is thy faithfulness -[1293.98 --> 1297.64] Oh God my Father -[1297.64 --> 1307.18] There is no shadow of turning with thee -[1307.18 --> 1311.60] Thou changest not -[1311.60 --> 1314.14] Thy compassions -[1314.14 --> 1316.98] They fail not -[1316.98 --> 1320.60] As thou hast been -[1320.60 --> 1325.60] Thou forever wilt be -[1325.60 --> 1330.92] Great is thy faithfulness -[1330.92 --> 1335.38] Great is thy faithfulness -[1335.38 --> 1365.36] Lord unto me -[1365.36 --> 1373.36] Summer and winter and springtime and harvest -[1373.36 --> 1374.36] Summer and winter and springtime and harvest -[1374.36 --> 1381.36] Sun, moon and stars in their forces above -[1381.36 --> 1382.36] Join with all nations -[1382.36 --> 1386.36] Join with all nations -[1386.36 --> 1388.36] In manifold witness -[1388.36 --> 1392.36] To thy great faithfulness -[1392.36 --> 1396.36] To thy great faithfulness -[1396.36 --> 1399.36] Mercy and love -[1399.36 --> 1404.36] Great is thy faithfulness -[1404.36 --> 1405.50] Great is thy faithfulness -[1405.50 --> 1409.36] Great is thy faithfulness -[1409.36 --> 1411.36] Great is thy faithfulness -[1411.36 --> 1413.30] Great is thy faithfulness -[1413.30 --> 1413.36] Great is thy faithfulness -[1413.36 --> 1414.36] Great by morning -[1414.36 --> 1414.94] Interesting, new blessings I see -[1414.94 --> 1415.36] Through fountволen andhn though flame among holy this -[1415.36 --> 1417.36] Great is thy faithfulness -[1417.36 --> 1435.98] All I have needed, thy hand hath provided. Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto thee. -[1435.98 --> 1456.46] Pardon for sin and the peace that endureth. Thy own dear presence to cheer unto life. -[1456.46 --> 1473.46] Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow. Blessings all bind with ten thousand beside. -[1473.46 --> 1490.96] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[1490.96 --> 1509.26] All I have needed, thy hand hath provided. Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto thee. -[1512.26 --> 1514.98] I invite you to rise as you are able for our next song. -[1520.96 --> 1550.94] Thank you. -[1550.96 --> 1552.96] Thank you. -[1552.96 --> 1553.96] Thank you. -[1553.96 --> 1555.96] Thank you. -[1580.96 --> 1583.96] Thank you. -[1583.96 --> 1587.96] Sing praise. -[1587.96 --> 1590.96] Sing praise. -[1590.96 --> 1592.96] Sing praise. -[1592.96 --> 1594.96] Sing praise. -[1594.96 --> 1595.96] Sing praise. -[1595.96 --> 1597.96] Sing praise. -[1597.96 --> 1598.96] Thank you. -[1598.96 --> 1599.96] Amen. -[1599.96 --> 1600.96] Thank you. -[1600.96 --> 1602.96] Thank you. -[1602.96 --> 1603.96] Thank you. -[1603.96 --> 1604.96] Thank you. -[1604.96 --> 1608.50] Forever God is with us. -[1608.84 --> 1609.66] Forever. -[1612.18 --> 1613.42] Forever. -[1616.48 --> 1620.20] We sing to the setting sun. -[1620.52 --> 1622.92] His love endures forever. -[1623.86 --> 1627.84] By the grace of God, He will carry on. -[1627.84 --> 1630.58] His love endures forever. -[1630.58 --> 1633.10] Sing praise. -[1635.06 --> 1637.02] Sing praise. -[1638.88 --> 1640.66] Sing praise. -[1642.84 --> 1644.56] Sing praise. -[1646.66 --> 1649.40] Forever God is able. -[1650.48 --> 1653.38] Forever God is strong. -[1653.38 --> 1657.74] Forever God is with us. -[1658.10 --> 1658.90] Forever. -[1660.58 --> 1664.58] Forever you are faithful. -[1665.70 --> 1668.50] Forever you are strong. -[1669.50 --> 1672.96] Forever you are with us. -[1673.30 --> 1674.08] Forever. -[1676.82 --> 1677.50] Forever. -[1677.50 --> 1678.02] Forever. -[1683.00 --> 1684.68] I请 to be seated. -[1684.68 --> 1705.98] Good morning. -[1707.20 --> 1710.80] My name is Emo, and I'm a deacon here at Emanuel. -[1710.80 --> 1718.28] Our first offering is for the church budget, which covers the administration of the church -[1718.28 --> 1724.62] and its ministries, and the special offering for today is for Safe Church Ministry. -[1725.94 --> 1731.66] Through Compassion, Safe Church Ministry helps build communities where people are free to -[1731.66 --> 1738.56] worship and grow free from abuse, as well as help heal those who have suffered abuse. -[1738.56 --> 1746.48] The Safe Church Committee for Classes BC Southeast, of which Langley Emanuel is a member church, -[1747.00 --> 1752.84] helps with consulting a church when abuse has occurred, offers coaching and networking -[1752.84 --> 1760.20] for Safe Church teams, supports training and hosting online training events, and offers -[1760.20 --> 1766.58] seed money for Safe Church coordinators and mini-grants to Safe Church teams to develop -[1766.58 --> 1768.08] Safe Church initiatives. -[1768.56 --> 1773.98] Please consider supporting this ministry financially and also in your daily prayers. -[1775.42 --> 1780.86] So as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, -[1781.18 --> 1784.40] kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. -[1785.20 --> 1787.02] Colossians 3, verse 12. -[1787.02 --> 1800.88] Next week's offering is for the budget and C10, which is the ministry in Mexico by Jody Gonzales and her husband. -[1800.88 --> 1804.12] for the United Nations Columbian Catorian Archbishop. -[1804.12 --> 1805.72] The Espanou of juniors andustasa.com -[1805.72 --> 1812.12] A -[1812.12 --> 1812.80] song and -[1812.80 --> 1814.46] along水 -[1814.54 --> 1814.86] political -[1814.86 --> 1816.36] combined -[1816.36 --> 1816.52] multikultural -[1816.52 --> 1816.70] claims -[1816.70 --> 1817.38] And -[1817.48 --> 1817.58] goodbye -[1817.58 --> 1818.18] 谷 -[1818.18 --> 1837.16] All these pieces broken and scattered -[1837.16 --> 1844.58] In mercy gathered, mended and whole -[1844.58 --> 1851.34] Empty-handed but not forsaken -[1851.34 --> 1859.04] I've been set free, I've been set free -[1859.04 --> 1867.00] Amazing grace, how sweet the sound -[1867.00 --> 1872.10] Has saved a wretch like me -[1872.10 --> 1880.86] Oh, I once was lost, but now I am found -[1880.86 --> 1885.10] Was blind, but now I see -[1885.10 --> 1889.86] Oh, I can see you now -[1889.86 --> 1899.62] Oh, I can see the love in your eyes -[1899.62 --> 1904.62] Laying yourself down -[1904.62 --> 1913.38] Raising up the broken to life -[1913.38 --> 1933.14] You take our failure, you take our weakness -[1933.14 --> 1939.90] You set your treasure in jars of clay -[1939.90 --> 1943.90] So take this heart, Lord -[1943.90 --> 1950.66] I'll be your vessel, the world to see -[1950.66 --> 1954.66] Your life in me -[1954.66 --> 1962.16] Amazing grace, how sweet the sound -[1962.16 --> 1966.92] That saved a wretch like me -[1966.92 --> 1974.92] Oh, I once was lost, but now I am found -[1974.92 --> 1979.68] Was blind, but now I am found -[1979.68 --> 1981.68] Was blind, but now I am found -[1981.68 --> 1983.68] Oh, I can see you now -[1983.68 --> 1985.68] Oh, I can see you now -[1985.68 --> 1996.44] Oh, I can see you now -[1996.44 --> 2000.44] Oh, I can see you now -[2000.44 --> 2007.20] Raising up the broken to life -[2007.20 --> 2017.96] guitar solo -[2017.96 --> 2038.72] Amazing grace, how sweet the sound -[2038.72 --> 2039.72] Has saved a wretch like me -[2039.72 --> 2043.48] Oh, I once was lost, but now I am found -[2043.48 --> 2047.48] Was blind, but now I see -[2047.48 --> 2050.48] Oh, I can see you now -[2050.48 --> 2054.48] Oh, I can see you now -[2054.48 --> 2059.48] Oh, I can see you now -[2059.48 --> 2063.48] Oh, I can see you now -[2063.48 --> 2081.64] Oh, I can see you now -[2081.64 --> 2084.68] Oh, I can see you now -[2084.68 --> 2087.04] Oh, I can see you now -[2087.04 --> 2090.02] Beating yourself down -[2090.02 --> 2101.04] Amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me. -[2114.72 --> 2116.78] It's time for the kids. -[2117.26 --> 2117.84] Come on up. -[2120.02 --> 2120.80] Oh, come on. -[2123.92 --> 2124.88] Nobody's coming? -[2126.82 --> 2128.18] Come on. -[2128.76 --> 2129.68] Thank you. -[2132.18 --> 2139.80] Okay, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine. -[2140.86 --> 2141.54] Awesome. -[2141.84 --> 2142.82] Thanks, guys, for coming. -[2143.30 --> 2145.52] I would have felt pretty lonely up here all by myself. -[2147.52 --> 2148.24] Yeah? -[2148.24 --> 2150.70] No reaction? -[2151.60 --> 2152.38] Okay, that's good. -[2153.02 --> 2157.30] You guys are going to go off if you're still part of the summer schedule. -[2158.32 --> 2161.50] So let's do a quick prayer, and then we'll do the blessing, okay? -[2162.50 --> 2162.70] Okay. -[2162.70 --> 2165.98] Lord, thank you for all these children in church today. -[2166.44 --> 2168.40] Thank you for the blessing that they are in our lives. -[2168.74 --> 2176.24] And Lord, we also pray a blessing on them and also on the teachers and the helpers that will be teaching them more about you today in their own classes. -[2176.70 --> 2177.34] Thank you, Lord. -[2177.66 --> 2178.86] Thank you for being our Father. -[2179.30 --> 2179.50] Amen. -[2179.50 --> 2181.74] Okay, let's stand up and do the blessing. -[2186.40 --> 2186.72] Ready? -[2186.72 --> 2186.80] Ready? -[2187.70 --> 2189.84] The Lord be with you. -[2190.68 --> 2192.14] The Lord be with you. -[2192.54 --> 2192.74] Okay. -[2209.50 --> 2224.88] My name's Eric Huberts. -[2225.06 --> 2226.32] I'm an elder here at Emmanuel. -[2226.62 --> 2229.22] I'll be leading you in our church family prayer. -[2229.22 --> 2235.22] Lord, you are our rock and our salvation, our fortress and our deliverer. -[2235.52 --> 2238.66] We thank you for being our stronghold and refuge. -[2239.10 --> 2243.56] We thank you that we can come to you as a church to worship and praise your name. -[2243.56 --> 2249.36] Today, we think of Rika Emmons' mother who passed away last week. -[2249.80 --> 2251.40] We pray for Rika. -[2251.68 --> 2260.86] She's still in the Netherlands with family and friends and thankful that Andy had an opportunity to hang out with his children this past week in Winnipeg and now that he's back with us. -[2262.16 --> 2265.16] This is the time of year as well when school is starting this week. -[2265.66 --> 2272.56] From preschool, elementary, middle school, high school, college and university, here and away. -[2272.56 --> 2278.58] This can be a very intimidating time for all ages and exciting as well. -[2279.10 --> 2282.20] We ask that you bless the teachers as well as the students. -[2285.02 --> 2288.74] I'd like to thank Pastor Chris and Kevin for the great work they have been doing here. -[2289.18 --> 2299.36] Now, with the starting of our new church year, I pray for full council here at Emmanuel, the deacons as they schedule and plan the seasons of givings and offerings, -[2299.68 --> 2302.20] elders as we plan our schedule and visits also. -[2302.56 --> 2305.60] Bless all Emmanuel ministries and volunteers. -[2306.38 --> 2314.68] Help Emmanuel bring all them together, all the helpers needed to make this year a success with nearly 35 different ministries this year. -[2316.06 --> 2320.40] We also want to remember Reactivate next weekend at Willoughby CRC. -[2320.40 --> 2327.32] that the youth are traveling from all over the province and that they will have safe traveling to getting there. -[2328.22 --> 2330.90] That the conference will have a great impact on their lives. -[2332.10 --> 2332.84] Praise the Lord. -[2333.08 --> 2335.00] Give thanks to the Lord for he is good. -[2335.36 --> 2336.40] His love endures forever. -[2336.84 --> 2337.02] Amen. -[2350.40 --> 2358.60] Oh, there's the church response that we're all used to, right? -[2360.88 --> 2363.08] It's really good to be with you guys this morning. -[2363.48 --> 2366.26] If you're visiting or checking us out for the first time, my name is Chris. -[2366.26 --> 2367.44] I'm one of the pastors here. -[2370.34 --> 2372.02] This has been one of those weeks, right? -[2372.12 --> 2378.94] Everything starts to, I want to say feel busy, but really what I mean is it starts to feel ordinary again for most of us, right? -[2378.98 --> 2381.42] As things kind of get back into the schedule. -[2381.54 --> 2384.02] And I love the schedule and the regular rhythms of it. -[2384.02 --> 2388.42] I'm super grateful that, you know, kids get to go back to school, for instance. -[2388.52 --> 2390.20] Just one thing, a random thing to name off. -[2390.26 --> 2390.68] No reason. -[2393.30 --> 2398.36] But with that, it is so good for us to get together like this. -[2398.36 --> 2404.70] It is so good for us to reflect on the Word of God and to dig into what He has to say for us. -[2404.84 --> 2412.10] And so, as we do that this morning, I'm going to invite you, if you have one, to grab your Bible, open it up. -[2412.10 --> 2414.88] If you use your phone, turn it on. -[2414.94 --> 2417.08] We're going to go to Mark 4 together. -[2418.34 --> 2426.36] I'm going to encourage you, if you have a Bible, to keep it open because we'll jump back and refer to that text throughout the message together. -[2428.44 --> 2435.84] We have been, this summer, in a series on parables, looking at the parables of Jesus. -[2435.84 --> 2447.08] And so, before I read this parable here, the final one in our series for the summer, just a quick recap to frame your mind about what a parable is. -[2448.42 --> 2459.22] Now, a parable is a story from everyday life to make a spiritual or theological point. -[2459.22 --> 2460.22] Right? -[2461.12 --> 2463.84] So, Jesus will talk about yeast and bread. -[2463.98 --> 2468.48] He will talk about lost sheep or lost coins or lost sons. -[2469.00 --> 2473.12] He will talk, in our case this morning, as we will see, about sowing seed. -[2473.78 --> 2473.94] Right? -[2474.20 --> 2484.12] Jesus takes ordinary, everyday stories common to the context of His audience and then imbues them with spiritual meaning. -[2484.12 --> 2491.62] Now, because it's to the context of His audience, some of that is lost on us because it's 2,000 years later. -[2491.78 --> 2491.96] Right? -[2492.02 --> 2502.10] I don't think any of us, to the best of my knowledge, are shepherds, right, free-ranging through Galilee and Palestine, worried about rocks and predatory animals. -[2503.00 --> 2503.26] Anyone? -[2504.84 --> 2505.62] Maybe online. -[2505.78 --> 2507.40] And I've never talked like this before. -[2507.48 --> 2509.60] But if you're online and that's you, leave it in the comments below. -[2509.68 --> 2510.32] I'd love to hear it. -[2511.54 --> 2512.46] Like and subscribe. -[2514.12 --> 2516.12] Like and subscribe. -[2516.12 --> 2523.98] Jesus takes everyday stories and imbues them with spiritual and theological significance. -[2524.46 --> 2525.40] That's a parable. -[2525.84 --> 2529.58] And so, with that, let's read from Mark 4 together. -[2541.90 --> 2543.74] Mark 4, I'll read the first 20 verses. -[2544.12 --> 2546.12] Mark 5, I'll read the first 20 verses. -[2546.12 --> 2549.20] Again, Jesus began to teach by the lake. -[2550.20 --> 2555.68] The crowd that gathered around Him was so large that He got into a boat and sat in it out on the lake, -[2556.26 --> 2559.12] while all the people were along the shore at the water's edge. -[2559.82 --> 2565.00] He taught them many things by parables, and in His teaching He said to them, -[2565.00 --> 2566.00] Listen, -[2566.00 --> 2566.02] Listen. -[2567.00 --> 2569.58] A farmer went out to sow his seed. -[2570.40 --> 2574.88] As he scattered the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. -[2575.34 --> 2578.44] Some fell on rocky places where it did not have much soil. -[2578.96 --> 2581.50] It sprang up quickly because the soil was shallow. -[2582.26 --> 2586.70] But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. -[2586.70 --> 2594.14] Other seed fell among the thorns, which grew up and choked the plants so that they did not bear grain. -[2594.78 --> 2597.08] Still other seed fell on good soil. -[2597.76 --> 2604.46] It came up and grew and produced a crop, some multiplying 30, some 60, some 100 times. -[2604.46 --> 2606.68] Then Jesus said, -[2607.16 --> 2610.64] Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear. -[2612.22 --> 2617.20] When He was alone, the twelve and the others around Him asked Him about the parables. -[2618.12 --> 2618.88] And He told them, -[2619.52 --> 2624.38] The secret, or the mystery, of the kingdom of God has been given to you. -[2624.98 --> 2628.56] But to those on the outside, everything is said in parables, -[2628.56 --> 2632.96] so that they may be ever seeing, but never perceiving, -[2633.48 --> 2635.62] and ever hearing, but never understanding. -[2635.82 --> 2638.16] Otherwise, they might turn and be forgiven. -[2639.30 --> 2640.68] Then Jesus said to them, -[2641.52 --> 2644.00] Don't you understand this parable? -[2644.58 --> 2646.32] How then will you understand any parable? -[2646.92 --> 2648.54] The farmer sows the word. -[2649.18 --> 2652.80] Some people are like seed along the path where the word is sown. -[2652.90 --> 2657.42] As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in them. -[2657.42 --> 2664.16] Others, like seed sown on rocky places, hear the word and at once receive it with joy. -[2664.58 --> 2667.64] But since they have no root, they last only a short time. -[2668.50 --> 2672.48] When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. -[2673.66 --> 2677.68] And still others, like seed sown among the thorns, hear the word. -[2678.28 --> 2683.46] But the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in -[2683.46 --> 2686.72] and choke the word, making it unfruitful. -[2687.42 --> 2695.44] Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop. -[2696.16 --> 2700.94] Some 30, some 60, some 100 times what was sown. -[2701.68 --> 2702.92] This is the word of the Lord. -[2702.92 --> 2716.70] So Jesus takes everyday stories like a farmer sowing seed and imbues them with spiritual and theological significance. -[2716.70 --> 2725.16] But what that means is we are working in the realm of metaphor and simile and analogy. -[2725.98 --> 2737.78] And so sometimes we miss the meaning that Jesus intended or we oversimplify the story and then we map onto it a wrong thing. -[2737.78 --> 2743.64] That's actually the second thing about parables that we've seen this summer, right? -[2743.70 --> 2747.62] That part of their intent is to make you think. -[2748.24 --> 2756.44] Or more specifically, part of the intent of parables is to make you rethink the sorts of things you thought you always knew. -[2756.44 --> 2765.02] Parables will introduce you to something that is meant to confuse and meant to challenge your assumptions. -[2766.54 --> 2767.96] We've said it here before. -[2769.02 --> 2775.16] If your reading of a parable doesn't do that, if it doesn't confuse you, if it doesn't challenge your assumptions, -[2775.40 --> 2777.72] you're probably misreading the parable. -[2777.72 --> 2786.32] Look again with your Bibles open at the words of Jesus, right in the middle of what we read in verse 11. -[2787.82 --> 2788.18] He says, -[2788.18 --> 2794.66] The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you, but to those on the outside everything is said in parables, -[2794.82 --> 2800.18] so that they may be ever seeing but never perceiving. -[2800.58 --> 2802.78] Ever hearing but never understanding. -[2803.08 --> 2805.96] Otherwise they might turn and be forgiven. -[2805.96 --> 2809.54] Seeing but not perceiving. -[2809.88 --> 2812.50] Hearing but not understanding. -[2813.62 --> 2819.12] And so when you read the parables of Jesus, if you are a little confused, that's the point. -[2820.50 --> 2821.98] But hear this, okay? -[2822.74 --> 2822.90] Right? -[2823.56 --> 2826.22] The confusion isn't meant to drive you away. -[2827.04 --> 2828.74] It's meant to draw you in. -[2830.32 --> 2830.48] Right? -[2830.48 --> 2834.48] Jesus wants you to think deeply about these kinds of things. -[2834.48 --> 2837.26] Not just to settle for what you've always known. -[2837.46 --> 2842.12] To just blindly and passively accept what you've always believed. -[2842.78 --> 2849.48] Again, let me be really clear because it seems like sometimes we don't hear this, right? -[2849.72 --> 2852.20] Jesus invites your questions. -[2853.20 --> 2853.32] Right? -[2853.36 --> 2855.26] Christianity invites your doubts. -[2856.02 --> 2858.68] In fact, so much so that I want you to doubt your doubts. -[2858.68 --> 2862.52] Christianity isn't afraid of your questions. -[2862.84 --> 2863.62] Let's ask them. -[2864.28 --> 2865.22] Let's wrestle together. -[2865.32 --> 2866.28] Let's dig deep. -[2866.48 --> 2867.80] That's the point of the parables. -[2868.86 --> 2868.98] Right? -[2869.06 --> 2873.20] We didn't read it, but again, this is why I ask you to keep your Bibles open. -[2873.32 --> 2878.06] Verse 22 or 21 and 22. -[2878.06 --> 2880.00] Jesus says, -[2880.00 --> 2883.44] Do you bring in a lamp to put it under a bowl or a bed? -[2883.88 --> 2885.62] Instead, don't you put it on its stand? -[2885.70 --> 2886.62] And here's what I want you to hear. -[2887.08 --> 2889.98] For whatever is hidden is meant to be disclosed. -[2890.14 --> 2893.94] And whatever is concealed is meant to be brought out into the open. -[2894.26 --> 2897.58] If anyone has ears to hear, let them hear. -[2899.48 --> 2902.34] Whatever is hidden is meant to be disclosed. -[2902.88 --> 2906.64] Whatever is concealed is meant to be brought out into the open. -[2906.64 --> 2910.82] And that Klein Snodgrass, he's a Bible scholar, he says really simply, -[2911.20 --> 2913.76] Parables hide in order to reveal. -[2915.72 --> 2920.20] Parables are inviting us to ask hard questions about life and faith in God, -[2920.26 --> 2924.60] about the kingdom, about what is right and what is truth and what is true. -[2925.06 --> 2928.56] Parables are inviting us to wrestle with the idea of what is the good life, -[2928.66 --> 2930.64] what is truly beautiful, -[2930.64 --> 2936.60] what is meaning and what is meaningful and what is meaning based on in life. -[2936.64 --> 2939.42] There's a case in point here. -[2939.52 --> 2943.08] The parable that we read invites you to consider, -[2943.60 --> 2948.48] are you really asking those questions? -[2949.24 --> 2953.24] Are you really hearing Jesus' invitation? -[2953.82 --> 2957.08] Are your questions really about truth? -[2957.08 --> 2961.26] Or is all of this, whatever this may be for you right now, -[2961.30 --> 2964.62] is all of this just an experience of confirmation bias, -[2964.76 --> 2965.78] of preconceived notions, -[2965.78 --> 2968.44] and really just an excuse in the end to walk away? -[2970.52 --> 2974.34] Parables hide in order to reveal. -[2974.34 --> 2980.92] And the first thing to be revealed is that your heart, -[2981.88 --> 2985.72] right, your willingness to hear matters. -[2986.66 --> 2990.36] That's the theme of this message, -[2990.44 --> 2992.78] this parable of what we're digging into, right? -[2992.86 --> 2997.48] That how you hear and how you set yourself up to hear -[2997.48 --> 3000.02] matters for what you hear. -[3000.02 --> 3004.10] And if you actually hear what Jesus has to say. -[3005.46 --> 3009.16] Now, most of you probably have the same Bible that I do, -[3009.24 --> 3010.78] or a similar one. -[3011.40 --> 3012.74] In most of your Bibles, -[3012.86 --> 3015.40] there's probably a heading at the top of chapter 4. -[3015.94 --> 3017.72] Someone with a heading at the top of chapter 4. -[3017.78 --> 3018.30] What does it say? -[3020.62 --> 3021.60] Parable of the sower. -[3021.94 --> 3022.30] Perfect. -[3022.70 --> 3023.04] Thank you. -[3023.10 --> 3024.52] I'm glad that didn't backfire on me. -[3025.02 --> 3026.12] If yours says something different, -[3026.24 --> 3026.40] shh! -[3026.40 --> 3029.22] Parable of the sower. -[3029.34 --> 3030.82] Now, let me be clear, -[3030.94 --> 3033.22] because some of us are new to this faith thing, right? -[3033.26 --> 3036.16] These headings aren't part of the original text. -[3036.38 --> 3039.40] The Bible was written mostly in Hebrew and Greek. -[3039.58 --> 3041.20] It didn't have chapters or verses -[3041.20 --> 3043.66] or these fancy headings in it to help us organize. -[3044.18 --> 3046.58] These headings are put in by an editorial board, -[3046.80 --> 3048.42] in this case from Zondervan, -[3048.84 --> 3051.26] to help organize the content within it. -[3051.58 --> 3052.20] Now, they're good. -[3052.20 --> 3054.32] The point is, -[3054.62 --> 3055.86] sometimes, -[3056.08 --> 3057.34] they're a little misleading. -[3058.14 --> 3060.60] Because this parable isn't actually about the sower, -[3060.74 --> 3061.74] at least not primarily. -[3063.14 --> 3064.82] And it's not even about the seed, -[3064.94 --> 3066.38] at least not primarily. -[3067.26 --> 3067.34] Right? -[3067.42 --> 3069.30] The verse 14 tells us that the seed, -[3069.44 --> 3071.00] simply put, is the word. -[3071.48 --> 3071.86] Rather, -[3072.32 --> 3075.48] this parable is about the soils, -[3076.08 --> 3078.84] and the people that they represent in life, -[3078.84 --> 3080.34] and what they do, -[3080.40 --> 3081.08] or we do, -[3081.18 --> 3081.80] to hear, -[3082.72 --> 3085.74] and to show that we've heard the word. -[3086.28 --> 3088.88] This parable invites you to introspect, -[3089.60 --> 3090.42] to ask, -[3090.84 --> 3093.22] what am I doing to cultivate a heart, -[3093.30 --> 3094.08] or a soil, -[3094.60 --> 3098.50] that's going to receive the word, -[3098.68 --> 3100.32] and produce fruit? -[3101.80 --> 3102.74] But because of that, -[3103.14 --> 3104.56] and because many of us have, -[3104.76 --> 3104.94] in fact, -[3104.98 --> 3106.64] been around these stories, -[3106.64 --> 3107.92] for a really long time, -[3108.42 --> 3110.24] it's actually really easy, -[3110.24 --> 3111.38] to get distracted, -[3111.72 --> 3112.82] about the sower, -[3113.06 --> 3113.84] about the farmer. -[3114.52 --> 3114.66] Right? -[3114.70 --> 3116.04] And especially about how this, -[3116.04 --> 3117.36] farmer goes about, -[3117.72 --> 3118.10] sowing. -[3118.98 --> 3119.18] Right? -[3119.24 --> 3120.46] Some of you have heard this parable, -[3120.56 --> 3121.16] so many times, -[3121.22 --> 3121.58] that you've been, -[3121.64 --> 3122.88] been trained to think, -[3122.96 --> 3124.20] that the farmer just goes out, -[3124.24 --> 3125.30] and he wantonly, -[3125.46 --> 3126.72] is flinging seed, -[3126.96 --> 3128.12] wherever he needs to go, -[3128.28 --> 3129.74] liberally casting it aside, -[3129.82 --> 3131.78] without a care for where it may land. -[3132.06 --> 3132.98] Maybe he's hoping, -[3133.10 --> 3134.60] just to see what sticks. -[3135.52 --> 3136.58] And then we ask the question, -[3136.64 --> 3137.54] is that responsible? -[3139.02 --> 3140.70] Would a farmer really do that? -[3141.02 --> 3141.30] And then, -[3141.54 --> 3143.36] seeing maybe that it's not responsible, -[3143.54 --> 3144.18] what we end up doing, -[3144.24 --> 3144.36] right, -[3144.38 --> 3145.78] is we turn this parable, -[3145.92 --> 3146.62] into sort of a, -[3146.62 --> 3148.42] a Christianese moralism, -[3148.42 --> 3148.96] that says, -[3149.10 --> 3150.54] just push the gospel out, -[3150.60 --> 3151.52] wherever you can, -[3151.80 --> 3152.44] without thought, -[3152.54 --> 3153.28] or without discipline, -[3153.42 --> 3154.40] or without discipleship, -[3154.44 --> 3155.58] and see what sticks. -[3156.02 --> 3157.84] That part's not my responsibility. -[3159.34 --> 3160.32] You see what we do, -[3160.36 --> 3162.44] when we read the parable that way. -[3163.16 --> 3165.38] We absolve ourselves of responsibility, -[3165.38 --> 3166.88] for discipleship, -[3167.20 --> 3167.92] and for discipline, -[3168.24 --> 3169.00] and for connection. -[3169.28 --> 3170.10] We just throw it out, -[3170.16 --> 3170.28] and say, -[3170.34 --> 3170.52] whatever, -[3171.42 --> 3172.06] that's on you, -[3172.48 --> 3172.70] neighbor. -[3173.26 --> 3173.84] That's on you, -[3173.94 --> 3175.30] not yet believing friend. -[3175.38 --> 3175.96] That's on you, -[3176.36 --> 3176.68] stranger, -[3176.82 --> 3177.72] on the street corner. -[3177.72 --> 3179.46] Now, -[3179.54 --> 3180.28] let me quickly, -[3180.44 --> 3181.98] give you three things, -[3182.06 --> 3183.18] in response to that idea, -[3183.30 --> 3184.22] that reading of the parable, -[3184.28 --> 3185.08] which is so common. -[3186.28 --> 3186.64] In fact, -[3186.70 --> 3187.52] when I was in seminary, -[3187.56 --> 3188.72] I wrote a sermon on this parable, -[3188.84 --> 3191.06] and that's the tack I took with it. -[3191.68 --> 3191.92] But, -[3192.00 --> 3193.14] let me say this. -[3193.30 --> 3193.56] First, -[3194.38 --> 3196.52] the text never actually says, -[3196.56 --> 3197.76] or really even implies, -[3197.86 --> 3198.60] that the farmer, -[3198.60 --> 3200.62] is just flippantly throwing seed, -[3200.72 --> 3201.96] without regard for where it lands. -[3203.42 --> 3203.56] Right, -[3203.56 --> 3204.00] and so, -[3204.18 --> 3204.76] even though, -[3204.92 --> 3207.66] the liberality of the act, -[3207.78 --> 3207.92] right, -[3207.98 --> 3209.16] the image of the sower, -[3209.30 --> 3210.58] just throwing it, -[3210.62 --> 3211.52] wherever it will go, -[3211.62 --> 3212.50] whatever it may do, -[3212.78 --> 3214.46] even though that's a good preaching device, -[3214.62 --> 3214.68] like, -[3214.94 --> 3215.24] I mean, -[3215.28 --> 3215.86] that'll preach, -[3215.96 --> 3216.08] right, -[3216.10 --> 3217.80] that's a good rhetorical move, -[3217.90 --> 3219.56] it's not actually clear from the text, -[3220.04 --> 3220.96] that that's Jesus' point. -[3222.60 --> 3222.92] Second, -[3222.92 --> 3225.28] what we know, -[3225.58 --> 3227.40] from the farming practices, -[3227.90 --> 3228.86] in Palestine, -[3229.04 --> 3229.48] and Galilee, -[3229.56 --> 3231.28] around the time of Jesus, -[3231.52 --> 3231.88] is that, -[3232.16 --> 3232.82] a farmer, -[3232.82 --> 3234.34] would walk the field, -[3234.52 --> 3235.48] with his seed, -[3235.88 --> 3236.84] scattering it out, -[3236.92 --> 3237.60] into rows, -[3237.76 --> 3238.90] and then another farmer, -[3238.90 --> 3240.74] would follow closely behind, -[3241.12 --> 3241.88] with a plow, -[3242.84 --> 3244.08] turning the soil over, -[3244.72 --> 3245.74] and covering the seed. -[3247.26 --> 3247.44] Now, -[3247.46 --> 3248.56] this helps us understand, -[3248.76 --> 3250.00] why the birds, -[3250.08 --> 3251.34] are only able to gather, -[3251.50 --> 3252.30] and eat the seeds, -[3252.30 --> 3253.78] that are sown along the path, -[3254.66 --> 3254.88] right, -[3254.90 --> 3256.26] that they don't get the other seeds, -[3256.70 --> 3257.82] because the second farmer, -[3257.94 --> 3258.82] has come along with the plow, -[3258.88 --> 3259.52] and turned it over, -[3259.64 --> 3259.86] and so, -[3260.12 --> 3261.60] those things that are along the path, -[3261.60 --> 3262.90] where the plow can't reach, -[3263.74 --> 3264.28] are going to let, -[3264.40 --> 3264.90] be exposed, -[3265.02 --> 3265.68] so birds can come, -[3265.78 --> 3266.48] and grab those, -[3266.76 --> 3267.44] but not the ones, -[3267.52 --> 3268.28] that get turned over, -[3268.78 --> 3269.50] into the soil. -[3271.04 --> 3271.64] Now again, -[3271.82 --> 3272.34] notice there, -[3272.44 --> 3272.94] Jesus says, -[3273.06 --> 3274.04] along the path, -[3274.68 --> 3274.92] right, -[3275.02 --> 3275.24] not, -[3275.62 --> 3276.34] where the seed, -[3276.40 --> 3277.12] couldn't be plowed in, -[3277.54 --> 3278.62] the rest, -[3279.98 --> 3281.34] it rests on a surface, -[3281.34 --> 3281.98] that's open, -[3282.10 --> 3283.10] and available to the birds, -[3283.24 --> 3284.66] but it's along the side, -[3284.68 --> 3285.14] of the path, -[3285.18 --> 3286.00] it's not like, -[3286.06 --> 3287.08] it's been thrown out, -[3287.16 --> 3288.12] onto the road. -[3288.12 --> 3290.52] Now we also know, -[3290.78 --> 3291.42] from this time, -[3291.54 --> 3292.38] that the soil, -[3292.72 --> 3293.26] of Palestine, -[3293.44 --> 3293.96] and Galilee, -[3294.56 --> 3296.26] is especially shallow, -[3296.50 --> 3297.10] and rocky. -[3297.28 --> 3297.88] Now it's, -[3297.88 --> 3299.20] productive soil, -[3299.44 --> 3300.30] but there are tons, -[3300.38 --> 3301.28] of rocks in this field, -[3301.64 --> 3303.02] and that makes sense, -[3303.34 --> 3303.50] right, -[3303.56 --> 3303.80] because, -[3304.34 --> 3305.30] I don't know if you've ever been, -[3305.50 --> 3306.08] to Palestine, -[3306.22 --> 3306.64] and Galilee, -[3306.72 --> 3307.56] but most of the region, -[3307.68 --> 3308.08] is desert, -[3308.72 --> 3308.90] right, -[3308.94 --> 3310.08] it's not the flood plain, -[3310.18 --> 3311.14] of Glen Valley, -[3311.26 --> 3312.18] or Sumas Prairie, -[3312.28 --> 3313.44] which is rich, -[3313.64 --> 3315.06] in nutrient soil, -[3315.26 --> 3316.46] because the water table, -[3316.46 --> 3317.12] is so high, -[3317.26 --> 3317.98] and because it's all, -[3318.16 --> 3318.82] flooded down, -[3318.92 --> 3319.46] from the mountains, -[3319.58 --> 3320.30] full of nutrients, -[3320.38 --> 3320.96] that it's collected, -[3321.36 --> 3322.02] along the way, -[3322.12 --> 3322.74] for millennia. -[3324.68 --> 3325.12] Finally, -[3325.42 --> 3326.50] we also know, -[3327.28 --> 3327.56] that, -[3327.94 --> 3328.90] sometimes, -[3329.76 --> 3330.50] there would be, -[3330.70 --> 3331.28] two plows, -[3331.60 --> 3332.52] in the process. -[3333.12 --> 3334.44] One would go through first, -[3334.54 --> 3335.30] the farmer would seed, -[3335.44 --> 3336.22] the other would follow, -[3336.50 --> 3337.26] and turn over, -[3337.70 --> 3338.14] but, -[3338.26 --> 3339.24] not always. -[3340.44 --> 3340.86] In fact, -[3341.22 --> 3342.24] it was about 50-50, -[3342.58 --> 3343.44] if there's two plows, -[3343.82 --> 3344.22] and so, -[3344.34 --> 3345.58] if there isn't two plows, -[3345.68 --> 3346.36] it's not really, -[3346.36 --> 3347.06] a surprise, -[3347.40 --> 3347.64] right, -[3347.68 --> 3348.54] that there's weeds, -[3348.64 --> 3349.28] and thorns, -[3349.38 --> 3350.66] that get plowed in, -[3350.94 --> 3351.98] with the seed, -[3352.12 --> 3353.20] when the following plow, -[3353.28 --> 3353.98] comes along, -[3354.06 --> 3354.84] and that it grows up, -[3354.92 --> 3355.48] with the seeds, -[3355.52 --> 3356.40] and then chokes it out. -[3357.74 --> 3358.08] Now, -[3358.12 --> 3358.64] like the seed, -[3358.72 --> 3359.56] along the path, -[3359.94 --> 3360.54] it's not like, -[3360.54 --> 3361.16] there's a pile, -[3361.28 --> 3361.94] of thorn bushes, -[3362.08 --> 3362.36] somewhere, -[3362.46 --> 3363.12] that the farmer's like, -[3363.16 --> 3363.26] yeah, -[3363.30 --> 3363.98] I'll throw some seed, -[3364.08 --> 3364.26] in there, -[3364.30 --> 3364.92] and see what happens. -[3365.82 --> 3366.38] This is just, -[3366.46 --> 3368.40] leftover, -[3369.12 --> 3370.12] from the previous cycle, -[3370.78 --> 3371.32] of cropping. -[3372.92 --> 3373.68] And then third, -[3373.80 --> 3374.68] and most significantly, -[3374.68 --> 3376.08] to dispel this, -[3376.14 --> 3377.32] way of reading the text, -[3377.82 --> 3379.18] in Jesus' explanation, -[3379.18 --> 3380.04] of the parable, -[3380.78 --> 3381.70] which is why it's so important, -[3381.78 --> 3382.62] to read the explanation, -[3383.26 --> 3383.40] right, -[3383.44 --> 3384.40] in Jesus' explanation, -[3384.52 --> 3384.90] of the parable, -[3385.06 --> 3386.02] he doesn't say, -[3386.10 --> 3386.62] a thing, -[3386.70 --> 3387.46] about the farmer, -[3388.00 --> 3389.38] right, -[3389.42 --> 3390.06] and the only thing, -[3390.14 --> 3391.04] he says about the seed, -[3391.16 --> 3392.00] is that it's the word. -[3392.74 --> 3393.98] All the explanation, -[3394.38 --> 3395.74] is focused on the soils, -[3396.58 --> 3397.24] the place, -[3397.30 --> 3398.02] where the seed falls. -[3399.10 --> 3399.42] Notice, -[3399.72 --> 3400.68] exactly, -[3400.68 --> 3401.06] then, -[3401.80 --> 3402.42] what he says, -[3402.62 --> 3404.44] in verse 15. -[3405.58 --> 3405.74] All right, -[3405.82 --> 3406.44] some people, -[3406.70 --> 3407.56] and so now we're focusing, -[3407.78 --> 3408.26] on people, -[3408.48 --> 3408.64] right, -[3408.68 --> 3409.26] not the sower, -[3409.64 --> 3410.30] some people, -[3410.44 --> 3411.38] are like the seed, -[3411.72 --> 3412.70] along the path, -[3412.72 --> 3414.28] as soon as they hear it. -[3414.60 --> 3414.92] And then, -[3415.04 --> 3415.68] the next one, -[3416.40 --> 3416.68] others, -[3416.92 --> 3417.50] like seed, -[3417.84 --> 3418.80] sown on rocky places, -[3418.94 --> 3419.72] hear the word, -[3419.98 --> 3420.76] and then the next one, -[3420.80 --> 3421.30] still others, -[3421.40 --> 3421.98] like seed, -[3422.66 --> 3425.06] sown among the thorns, -[3425.28 --> 3426.06] hear the word, -[3426.14 --> 3426.68] and then finally, -[3426.78 --> 3427.32] in the last one, -[3427.68 --> 3427.94] others, -[3428.14 --> 3428.66] like seed, -[3428.66 --> 3429.96] sown on good soil, -[3430.22 --> 3431.60] hear the word. -[3432.30 --> 3432.48] Right, -[3432.50 --> 3433.48] you see what's going on here. -[3433.76 --> 3434.48] Each time, -[3435.16 --> 3436.62] it's about how the word, -[3436.96 --> 3437.76] is heard. -[3438.98 --> 3439.12] Right, -[3439.16 --> 3440.10] and that makes sense, -[3440.30 --> 3441.14] given the context. -[3441.24 --> 3442.14] We've looked at it already, -[3442.20 --> 3443.06] we've pointed it out already, -[3443.14 --> 3444.54] but the parable, -[3444.70 --> 3446.22] the explanation of the parable, -[3446.56 --> 3447.64] is bracketed, -[3448.36 --> 3449.86] by a version of the phrase, -[3449.96 --> 3451.64] whoever has ears to hear, -[3452.00 --> 3454.28] let them hear. -[3456.20 --> 3457.30] And that's the thing. -[3458.66 --> 3460.44] Because what matters, -[3461.02 --> 3461.90] and what we see, -[3462.76 --> 3465.34] is that it's a very particular kind, -[3465.86 --> 3466.44] of hearing. -[3467.72 --> 3468.32] Because, -[3468.86 --> 3469.38] we read it, -[3469.42 --> 3469.56] right, -[3469.62 --> 3471.12] every one of the, -[3471.12 --> 3472.38] peoples, -[3472.74 --> 3473.52] and groups, -[3473.86 --> 3475.24] heard the word. -[3476.24 --> 3476.36] Right, -[3476.40 --> 3478.02] the hearing itself, -[3478.34 --> 3479.46] wasn't enough. -[3480.40 --> 3481.84] The hearing is minimally required, -[3482.02 --> 3482.98] and so it is still required, -[3483.26 --> 3485.60] but a certain kind of hearing, -[3485.60 --> 3486.44] is what sort of, -[3486.54 --> 3487.18] takes it home. -[3487.18 --> 3489.10] And then, -[3489.24 --> 3489.40] so, -[3490.10 --> 3491.74] with the time that we have, -[3492.34 --> 3493.32] remaining to us, -[3493.40 --> 3493.64] let's, -[3493.64 --> 3496.46] look at the four kinds of hearing, -[3496.92 --> 3498.24] in this parable. -[3499.00 --> 3499.98] And so first, -[3500.32 --> 3501.08] you have the seed, -[3501.22 --> 3501.70] that's sown, -[3501.92 --> 3503.02] along the path. -[3503.18 --> 3504.30] They hear the word, -[3504.70 --> 3505.30] but then Satan, -[3505.54 --> 3506.12] like a bird, -[3506.28 --> 3506.86] comes and, -[3507.20 --> 3508.12] takes it away from them. -[3509.28 --> 3510.38] These are the kinds of, -[3510.52 --> 3511.10] of people, -[3511.24 --> 3511.74] who don't, -[3511.94 --> 3513.00] even have a chance, -[3513.08 --> 3514.32] for it to root. -[3514.32 --> 3515.24] Now, -[3515.28 --> 3515.80] I think, -[3516.16 --> 3516.78] in application, -[3517.00 --> 3518.62] this is the kind of person, -[3518.98 --> 3521.04] who doesn't even give the word, -[3521.14 --> 3521.78] a chance. -[3522.14 --> 3522.54] The person, -[3522.62 --> 3523.42] who doesn't even bother, -[3523.42 --> 3524.58] to listen to you, -[3524.62 --> 3525.84] if you try to talk to them, -[3526.02 --> 3527.10] about life and faith, -[3527.16 --> 3527.48] but instead, -[3527.56 --> 3528.90] they just dismiss you. -[3529.86 --> 3530.46] And this is someone, -[3530.54 --> 3531.30] closed off, -[3531.36 --> 3532.92] from even the possibility, -[3532.92 --> 3533.98] of a truth, -[3534.06 --> 3535.28] that they don't already know. -[3536.74 --> 3536.92] Now, -[3536.96 --> 3537.20] if we, -[3537.32 --> 3538.70] look at the, -[3538.70 --> 3540.12] the quote from Isaiah 6, -[3540.20 --> 3540.48] in fact, -[3540.48 --> 3541.68] we expand out, -[3542.42 --> 3543.18] and we're not going to turn, -[3543.26 --> 3543.80] to Isaiah 6, -[3543.84 --> 3544.46] to look at it, -[3544.50 --> 3546.62] but Matthew 13, -[3546.62 --> 3547.56] there's also a telling, -[3547.56 --> 3548.56] of this parable, -[3549.30 --> 3550.06] and it includes, -[3550.16 --> 3551.34] this expanded quote, -[3551.42 --> 3551.86] from Isaiah, -[3551.98 --> 3553.32] but in Isaiah 6, -[3553.40 --> 3554.00] I think what, -[3554.24 --> 3555.44] this first seed group, -[3555.64 --> 3556.28] soil group, -[3556.32 --> 3557.14] is talking about, -[3557.50 --> 3558.20] is expanded, -[3558.50 --> 3559.10] Isaiah says, -[3559.26 --> 3560.24] in chapter 6, -[3560.30 --> 3560.68] verse 10, -[3561.22 --> 3561.98] make the heart, -[3562.06 --> 3563.62] of this people calloused, -[3564.02 --> 3565.12] make their ears dull, -[3565.24 --> 3566.40] and close their eyes. -[3567.96 --> 3568.14] Now, -[3568.20 --> 3569.24] in Isaiah's day, -[3569.64 --> 3569.86] right, -[3569.86 --> 3571.52] some 800 years, -[3571.64 --> 3571.88] 700, -[3571.94 --> 3572.70] 800 years before, -[3573.64 --> 3575.00] this is the religious, -[3575.00 --> 3575.98] leaders, -[3576.36 --> 3577.38] that caused, -[3577.58 --> 3578.70] the people of God, -[3578.74 --> 3579.34] the people of Israel, -[3579.42 --> 3580.16] to be carried off, -[3580.20 --> 3580.84] into exile. -[3582.00 --> 3583.32] And in Jesus' day, -[3583.40 --> 3584.44] this is the Pharisees, -[3584.50 --> 3585.56] and the teachers of the law, -[3585.66 --> 3586.64] who missed Jesus, -[3586.74 --> 3587.64] as the Messiah, -[3588.06 --> 3588.38] and who, -[3588.46 --> 3589.48] who missed him, -[3589.82 --> 3591.26] revealing the kingdom come, -[3591.28 --> 3591.96] even though, -[3592.08 --> 3592.96] he was right in front, -[3592.96 --> 3593.60] of their eyes. -[3594.84 --> 3595.64] And then maybe, -[3595.84 --> 3596.92] this carries forward, -[3597.36 --> 3598.48] maybe this is the person, -[3598.60 --> 3599.64] who misses the truth, -[3599.64 --> 3600.54] of the gospel, -[3600.92 --> 3602.02] because of an idea, -[3602.30 --> 3603.82] or an experience, -[3604.06 --> 3605.00] of Christians, -[3605.66 --> 3607.74] that didn't match up, -[3608.42 --> 3609.76] with the teachings of Christ. -[3610.84 --> 3611.38] And so now, -[3611.46 --> 3612.36] there's no changing, -[3612.48 --> 3613.50] that person's mind, -[3613.92 --> 3614.82] or heart. -[3614.92 --> 3616.26] There's no opportunity, -[3616.80 --> 3617.64] for conversation. -[3618.16 --> 3618.56] Maybe, -[3618.86 --> 3619.82] this is the, -[3619.82 --> 3621.26] the militant atheist, -[3621.62 --> 3623.02] who won't even fathom, -[3623.10 --> 3623.82] the possibility, -[3623.82 --> 3625.26] of God revealed in Jesus, -[3625.26 --> 3626.38] as an interesting, -[3626.38 --> 3627.36] thought experiment. -[3628.64 --> 3629.66] This is a person, -[3629.78 --> 3630.58] who refuses, -[3630.58 --> 3632.38] to engage. -[3635.42 --> 3636.38] This person, -[3636.54 --> 3637.26] could never hear, -[3638.18 --> 3639.18] and never gives themselves, -[3639.32 --> 3639.90] an opportunity, -[3640.42 --> 3641.32] to hear. -[3644.74 --> 3645.32] Now, -[3645.36 --> 3646.44] the second soil pipe, -[3646.96 --> 3648.16] is particularly, -[3648.16 --> 3649.42] interesting to me, -[3649.54 --> 3650.48] at least for this morning. -[3650.48 --> 3651.84] Right, -[3651.88 --> 3652.50] I think, -[3652.66 --> 3653.64] that in our, -[3653.64 --> 3656.40] post-Christian age, -[3656.50 --> 3657.30] of what, -[3657.44 --> 3658.30] demographers, -[3658.68 --> 3659.58] and sociologists, -[3659.76 --> 3660.68] called duns, -[3660.72 --> 3661.12] that is people, -[3661.24 --> 3662.24] who are done with church, -[3662.32 --> 3662.54] or the, -[3662.54 --> 3663.70] the de-churched, -[3663.76 --> 3664.12] sometimes, -[3664.22 --> 3664.50] that's people, -[3664.56 --> 3665.04] who grew up, -[3665.08 --> 3666.00] but have left, -[3666.26 --> 3667.20] in our age, -[3667.26 --> 3668.54] of deconstruction, -[3668.88 --> 3669.02] right, -[3669.06 --> 3669.64] that is people, -[3669.64 --> 3670.52] who at one time, -[3670.86 --> 3671.26] believed, -[3671.38 --> 3671.70] but now, -[3671.80 --> 3672.40] for a huge, -[3672.40 --> 3673.64] host of reasons, -[3674.20 --> 3674.84] some of them, -[3674.94 --> 3675.74] very legitimate, -[3676.16 --> 3676.74] no longer, -[3676.94 --> 3677.50] say they do. -[3678.30 --> 3678.84] Jesus says, -[3679.02 --> 3679.82] that these people, -[3680.06 --> 3681.20] are like seeds, -[3681.26 --> 3682.70] sown on rocky places, -[3682.70 --> 3683.86] they hear the word, -[3683.94 --> 3684.42] and at once, -[3684.54 --> 3685.60] receive it with joy, -[3686.44 --> 3687.68] but since they have no root, -[3688.20 --> 3689.58] they last only a short time, -[3689.70 --> 3690.54] and when trouble, -[3690.68 --> 3691.76] or persecution comes, -[3692.28 --> 3692.86] they quickly, -[3693.42 --> 3693.96] fall away. -[3695.32 --> 3695.98] And what I'm interested, -[3696.40 --> 3697.72] for our focus this morning, -[3698.22 --> 3699.72] is that part that Jesus says, -[3699.72 --> 3701.44] about receiving the word, -[3701.86 --> 3702.56] with joy. -[3703.98 --> 3704.78] Because you see, -[3704.78 --> 3707.82] in the church today, -[3708.48 --> 3709.18] and we are, -[3709.18 --> 3710.46] implicit in this, -[3710.82 --> 3711.62] there's a sort of, -[3712.44 --> 3713.38] I don't know what else to call it, -[3713.42 --> 3715.44] but an evangelical temptation, -[3716.22 --> 3716.36] right, -[3716.38 --> 3717.20] that kind of developed, -[3717.32 --> 3718.44] in the 20th century, -[3719.04 --> 3720.96] and got further, -[3721.08 --> 3722.14] ensconced in us, -[3722.26 --> 3723.10] in the rise, -[3723.16 --> 3723.60] and development, -[3723.72 --> 3724.56] of post-modernity, -[3724.66 --> 3725.94] carries into our own age, -[3726.32 --> 3726.52] right, -[3726.52 --> 3727.76] there's this idea, -[3728.30 --> 3730.22] that exists, -[3730.48 --> 3731.48] in the system, -[3731.66 --> 3733.32] that is a church community, -[3733.32 --> 3734.94] to make, -[3735.38 --> 3737.24] an emotional response, -[3738.16 --> 3738.94] the arbiter, -[3739.28 --> 3740.18] or the determiner, -[3740.56 --> 3741.86] of an authentic, -[3741.86 --> 3742.94] belief. -[3744.50 --> 3745.10] And so, -[3745.38 --> 3746.84] if I don't cry, -[3747.50 --> 3748.06] in worship, -[3748.88 --> 3750.38] if I don't raise my hands, -[3750.64 --> 3751.88] if I don't dance, -[3752.76 --> 3754.14] maybe I don't actually believe. -[3755.80 --> 3757.72] And what Jesus is saying here, -[3757.88 --> 3758.14] is that, -[3758.40 --> 3760.08] an emotional response, -[3760.44 --> 3761.50] in and of itself, -[3761.50 --> 3763.64] is not a good gauge, -[3763.76 --> 3764.38] of authenticity. -[3765.96 --> 3767.40] And I think that this is something, -[3767.54 --> 3768.32] we need to hear. -[3769.34 --> 3769.52] Right, -[3769.54 --> 3770.54] in my experience, -[3770.84 --> 3771.66] particularly, -[3772.56 --> 3773.94] in talking to young men, -[3774.86 --> 3775.80] though not exclusively, -[3776.84 --> 3778.04] but I have talked with a lot, -[3778.10 --> 3778.64] of young men, -[3779.10 --> 3780.46] people in their 20s, -[3780.46 --> 3781.44] who are like, -[3781.90 --> 3783.46] I don't feel, -[3784.46 --> 3785.86] my faith, -[3786.10 --> 3787.40] the way other people, -[3787.60 --> 3787.94] feel it, -[3787.98 --> 3788.76] and the way I see, -[3788.88 --> 3789.42] other people, -[3789.42 --> 3790.22] feel it. -[3790.36 --> 3791.38] And from that, -[3791.44 --> 3792.26] they wonder, -[3792.76 --> 3793.70] maybe that means, -[3793.78 --> 3794.58] it's not true for me. -[3795.32 --> 3796.46] Maybe it's not real, -[3796.46 --> 3797.18] for me. -[3798.46 --> 3798.88] Now, -[3798.94 --> 3800.02] I want to ask those questions, -[3800.02 --> 3800.52] with you. -[3801.88 --> 3802.66] But let's, -[3802.98 --> 3804.24] in asking those questions, -[3804.62 --> 3806.14] let's not make the mistake, -[3806.30 --> 3807.44] of assuming that joy, -[3807.60 --> 3808.88] or an emotional response, -[3809.10 --> 3810.16] is the only way, -[3810.32 --> 3811.02] to affirm, -[3811.36 --> 3812.14] your belief, -[3812.32 --> 3812.94] and your faith, -[3813.06 --> 3813.86] and the truth, -[3813.94 --> 3815.12] of that in you. -[3816.70 --> 3816.88] Right, -[3816.92 --> 3817.22] in fact, -[3817.22 --> 3818.40] Jesus' point here, -[3818.48 --> 3819.42] in this part of the parable, -[3819.70 --> 3821.64] is that there is a better gauge, -[3821.64 --> 3822.86] to authenticity, -[3822.86 --> 3823.88] of belief, -[3824.26 --> 3825.42] the gauge, -[3826.24 --> 3827.12] to whether or not, -[3827.22 --> 3827.90] you have heard, -[3828.10 --> 3828.70] and believe, -[3829.10 --> 3830.00] what Jesus says, -[3830.10 --> 3831.34] and we'll end with that. -[3832.28 --> 3833.00] But for now, -[3833.56 --> 3834.08] hear this, -[3835.24 --> 3836.62] an emotional response, -[3836.72 --> 3837.68] to the words of Jesus, -[3837.86 --> 3838.44] is not, -[3838.62 --> 3839.26] in and of itself, -[3839.60 --> 3840.46] determinative, -[3840.70 --> 3842.00] for the veracity, -[3842.48 --> 3843.02] of them, -[3843.10 --> 3844.30] in your own heart, -[3844.46 --> 3844.90] and life. -[3844.90 --> 3845.22] Right, -[3847.22 --> 3849.70] it is true, -[3850.10 --> 3852.34] even if it doesn't, -[3852.34 --> 3853.00] feel, -[3853.56 --> 3854.00] true, -[3854.50 --> 3855.08] in the moment. -[3856.12 --> 3856.32] Now, -[3856.38 --> 3857.18] I'm not minimizing, -[3857.32 --> 3858.28] the role of our emotions, -[3858.42 --> 3859.08] and our feelings, -[3859.36 --> 3860.20] don't hear that, -[3860.28 --> 3860.92] because that is, -[3861.14 --> 3861.72] critical, -[3862.10 --> 3862.74] for who we are, -[3862.78 --> 3863.76] as human beings. -[3864.92 --> 3865.84] But truth, -[3866.06 --> 3867.26] is not contingent, -[3867.30 --> 3868.26] upon my feeling, -[3868.34 --> 3869.34] like it is true. -[3869.68 --> 3870.02] And so, -[3870.14 --> 3871.00] if it doesn't, -[3871.08 --> 3872.02] feel the way, -[3872.10 --> 3873.08] you expect it, -[3873.18 --> 3874.00] to feel, -[3874.00 --> 3874.72] perhaps, -[3874.72 --> 3874.82] perhaps, -[3874.96 --> 3875.88] what we need to ask, -[3875.98 --> 3876.76] is the question of, -[3877.22 --> 3879.20] what are you hearing? -[3880.32 --> 3881.34] What are you, -[3881.34 --> 3882.64] believing? -[3883.74 --> 3884.04] Because, -[3884.28 --> 3887.06] if an emotional response, -[3887.26 --> 3888.56] becomes the target, -[3889.10 --> 3890.14] that might actually, -[3890.14 --> 3891.32] have the impact, -[3891.42 --> 3892.74] of becoming the foundation. -[3894.16 --> 3894.36] Right, -[3894.40 --> 3895.20] you see how that works? -[3895.62 --> 3895.78] Right, -[3895.80 --> 3896.92] if what we're shooting for, -[3896.98 --> 3898.44] is an emotional experience, -[3898.48 --> 3899.30] of something, -[3899.46 --> 3899.90] or other, -[3900.24 --> 3900.46] right, -[3900.46 --> 3901.94] then what we do, -[3902.02 --> 3902.76] is we build, -[3902.76 --> 3904.14] our experience of faith, -[3904.34 --> 3904.50] on that, -[3904.66 --> 3906.56] on those emotional experiences. -[3906.72 --> 3906.96] And then, -[3907.14 --> 3907.88] when we go through, -[3907.92 --> 3908.88] a season of trouble, -[3909.10 --> 3909.78] or hardship, -[3910.12 --> 3910.72] or doubt, -[3910.94 --> 3912.26] or a dark night of the soul, -[3912.30 --> 3912.90] when we go through, -[3912.94 --> 3914.12] an experience of death, -[3914.34 --> 3915.28] or loss, -[3915.58 --> 3917.26] or any form of tribulation, -[3917.58 --> 3918.50] where our emotions, -[3918.70 --> 3919.84] are vastly different, -[3920.00 --> 3921.00] than that mountaintop, -[3921.04 --> 3922.02] experience of joy, -[3922.14 --> 3923.62] that will rock your faith. -[3925.50 --> 3927.22] But there's a better foundation. -[3927.22 --> 3931.24] There's a stronger foundation. -[3932.42 --> 3933.74] There is a sure, -[3933.98 --> 3934.72] and certain, -[3935.72 --> 3936.60] foundation. -[3939.50 --> 3940.02] Now, -[3940.10 --> 3941.00] of the third soil, -[3941.98 --> 3942.66] Jesus says, -[3943.62 --> 3945.72] still others are like seed, -[3945.84 --> 3946.96] sown among thorns. -[3947.38 --> 3948.60] But the worries of this life, -[3948.70 --> 3949.78] the deceitfulness of wealth, -[3949.98 --> 3951.44] and the desires for other things, -[3951.54 --> 3951.98] come in, -[3952.08 --> 3953.20] and choke out the word, -[3953.60 --> 3955.36] making it unfruitful. -[3957.22 --> 3957.50] Now, -[3957.52 --> 3959.04] I think this is really about, -[3959.34 --> 3961.02] asking yourself the question, -[3961.48 --> 3962.50] whose word, -[3962.60 --> 3963.90] will you listen to? -[3965.24 --> 3966.06] Because life, -[3966.30 --> 3966.86] and culture, -[3967.10 --> 3967.76] and the world, -[3967.88 --> 3969.86] are speaking a word to us. -[3970.32 --> 3970.42] Right? -[3970.44 --> 3971.82] They're forming us, -[3972.06 --> 3973.68] and passively, -[3973.84 --> 3974.38] and actively, -[3974.82 --> 3975.74] in a message. -[3976.20 --> 3976.28] Right? -[3976.48 --> 3977.44] Will you believe, -[3977.76 --> 3978.94] what the world says, -[3978.96 --> 3979.92] about the good life? -[3980.16 --> 3980.98] Will you believe, -[3981.06 --> 3982.26] in the promises of wealth? -[3982.38 --> 3983.08] Will you believe, -[3983.14 --> 3984.90] in the vision of prosperity, -[3984.90 --> 3986.22] to bring you joy? -[3986.22 --> 3987.22] Or, -[3987.62 --> 3988.62] will you believe, -[3988.82 --> 3989.84] in the one who says, -[3990.18 --> 3991.38] do not worry? -[3992.12 --> 3993.54] Look at how your father in heaven, -[3993.66 --> 3995.26] cares for the birds of the air, -[3995.30 --> 3996.02] and provides for them. -[3996.26 --> 3997.28] Look at how your father in heaven, -[3997.38 --> 3999.08] clothes the hills, -[3999.20 --> 3999.78] and the valleys, -[3999.88 --> 4000.78] with beautiful flowers. -[4001.14 --> 4003.08] Will he not also care for you, -[4003.20 --> 4004.66] and provide for you? -[4004.78 --> 4006.14] Will you listen to the one, -[4006.22 --> 4007.12] who invites you, -[4007.40 --> 4009.00] to take up your cross daily, -[4009.24 --> 4010.22] and to follow him, -[4010.52 --> 4010.92] promising, -[4011.22 --> 4012.06] that the only way, -[4012.16 --> 4013.18] to gain life, -[4013.26 --> 4014.44] is to lose it. -[4014.44 --> 4015.76] That the only way, -[4015.80 --> 4017.22] to truly be rich, -[4017.22 --> 4018.42] in this life, -[4018.50 --> 4019.86] is to give your riches, -[4020.22 --> 4020.62] away. -[4020.74 --> 4021.42] That the only way, -[4021.52 --> 4022.44] to be great, -[4022.54 --> 4023.52] is to become the least. -[4023.62 --> 4024.18] The only way, -[4024.26 --> 4024.94] to win, -[4025.04 --> 4026.08] is to lose. -[4026.32 --> 4027.76] This counterintuitive, -[4027.76 --> 4028.96] economy of the kingdom, -[4029.06 --> 4029.46] of Jesus, -[4029.66 --> 4030.42] is calling us, -[4030.48 --> 4031.60] to something different. -[4031.74 --> 4032.86] But whose word, -[4032.96 --> 4034.38] will you listen to? -[4035.26 --> 4036.00] Which word, -[4036.08 --> 4036.74] will you believe? -[4037.70 --> 4038.60] That's the question, -[4038.66 --> 4039.42] of the third soil. -[4039.58 --> 4040.36] Is your heart, -[4040.48 --> 4041.04] compelled, -[4041.30 --> 4042.08] by the beauty, -[4042.08 --> 4042.84] of the gospel? -[4043.28 --> 4043.98] Or are you, -[4044.10 --> 4044.42] clinging, -[4044.70 --> 4046.04] to lesser glories, -[4046.04 --> 4047.58] that will fade away, -[4047.86 --> 4048.88] and will destroy, -[4049.20 --> 4049.96] and disappoint? -[4054.30 --> 4054.84] Now, -[4055.40 --> 4057.44] it is these kinds, -[4057.44 --> 4058.24] of questions, -[4058.80 --> 4061.26] that help us, -[4061.38 --> 4061.94] see why, -[4062.18 --> 4062.66] we need, -[4062.72 --> 4063.48] a community, -[4063.96 --> 4064.72] of believers, -[4064.88 --> 4065.62] around us. -[4066.76 --> 4066.94] Right? -[4066.98 --> 4067.50] Why we need, -[4067.58 --> 4068.68] a small group, -[4068.82 --> 4070.02] or a care group, -[4070.02 --> 4071.10] a solid group, -[4071.10 --> 4071.68] of people, -[4071.82 --> 4072.88] who will ask us, -[4072.96 --> 4074.02] the hard questions, -[4074.02 --> 4074.50] of life, -[4074.56 --> 4074.98] and faith, -[4075.12 --> 4076.38] who will challenge us, -[4076.40 --> 4077.26] if they see us, -[4077.32 --> 4078.32] not pursuing, -[4078.32 --> 4079.48] the things of God, -[4079.80 --> 4080.10] who will, -[4080.18 --> 4081.06] who will wonder, -[4081.18 --> 4081.62] with us, -[4081.72 --> 4082.74] why are you not, -[4082.74 --> 4084.00] engaging in the word, -[4084.10 --> 4084.62] or engaging, -[4084.80 --> 4085.30] in the community, -[4085.30 --> 4085.76] of faith, -[4085.98 --> 4086.74] even though you say, -[4086.90 --> 4087.54] you believe? -[4088.54 --> 4089.64] Why are you holding people, -[4089.80 --> 4090.20] here, -[4090.28 --> 4091.28] at arm's length? -[4091.38 --> 4091.82] Why are you not, -[4091.82 --> 4092.42] participating, -[4092.74 --> 4093.26] in the gathered, -[4093.58 --> 4093.88] body, -[4094.20 --> 4094.72] of believers? -[4094.92 --> 4095.44] Why are you, -[4095.52 --> 4096.68] not doing this? -[4096.72 --> 4097.10] We need, -[4097.10 --> 4097.76] the kinds of people, -[4097.76 --> 4098.36] to ask us, -[4098.36 --> 4099.40] these sorts of questions, -[4099.40 --> 4100.18] so that, -[4100.30 --> 4101.36] they can be used, -[4101.42 --> 4101.80] of God, -[4101.88 --> 4102.58] to turn us, -[4102.66 --> 4103.62] back to the truth, -[4103.70 --> 4104.40] when we wander, -[4104.82 --> 4105.28] away, -[4105.54 --> 4106.06] when we are, -[4106.06 --> 4106.82] disobedient, -[4107.50 --> 4107.96] to Jesus. -[4109.52 --> 4110.18] In fact, -[4111.92 --> 4112.36] obedience, -[4112.92 --> 4115.04] is the mark, -[4115.56 --> 4116.42] of the fourth, -[4117.08 --> 4117.38] soil. -[4118.72 --> 4118.94] Right? -[4119.00 --> 4119.46] Jesus said, -[4120.46 --> 4121.36] others are like, -[4121.40 --> 4121.76] seeds, -[4121.84 --> 4122.88] sown by good soil. -[4123.04 --> 4123.98] They hear the word, -[4123.98 --> 4124.94] they accept it, -[4125.06 --> 4125.74] and produce, -[4125.90 --> 4126.44] a crop, -[4126.86 --> 4127.46] some 30, -[4127.60 --> 4128.14] some 60, -[4128.14 --> 4129.50] some 100 times, -[4130.06 --> 4130.68] what is sowing, -[4131.32 --> 4132.52] what is sown. -[4133.44 --> 4133.82] Now, -[4133.86 --> 4134.52] I said at the beginning, -[4135.24 --> 4136.28] how you hear, -[4137.44 --> 4139.92] and how you set yourself up to hear, -[4140.28 --> 4142.24] matters for what you hear, -[4142.64 --> 4144.28] and if you are actually hearing, -[4144.48 --> 4145.70] what Jesus has to say. -[4146.74 --> 4147.62] What I want you to hear, -[4147.70 --> 4148.32] right now, -[4148.74 --> 4150.16] is what Jesus has to say. -[4150.66 --> 4151.86] Jesus says to you, -[4152.02 --> 4153.32] I am the way, -[4153.44 --> 4153.88] the truth, -[4153.94 --> 4154.44] and the life. -[4154.56 --> 4156.04] No one comes to the Father, -[4156.04 --> 4157.06] except through me. -[4157.32 --> 4158.08] Jesus says to you, -[4158.12 --> 4159.52] I am the resurrection, -[4159.96 --> 4160.82] and the life. -[4160.96 --> 4161.96] Jesus says to you, -[4162.02 --> 4163.48] I have come into the world, -[4163.60 --> 4164.48] and lived the life, -[4164.58 --> 4165.60] that you should have lived, -[4165.84 --> 4166.80] perfectly keeping, -[4166.86 --> 4168.00] all the commands of God, -[4168.12 --> 4169.00] on your behalf. -[4169.12 --> 4169.76] Jesus comes, -[4169.88 --> 4170.68] and he says to you, -[4170.90 --> 4172.34] I have died the death, -[4172.46 --> 4173.54] that you deserve, -[4173.60 --> 4174.32] as a punishment, -[4174.56 --> 4175.28] for your sin. -[4175.36 --> 4176.52] The reality of sin, -[4176.58 --> 4177.60] is that the wages of sin, -[4177.66 --> 4178.06] is death, -[4178.18 --> 4179.60] and Jesus has died it, -[4179.68 --> 4181.10] in your place. -[4181.10 --> 4184.24] And the same Jesus, -[4184.46 --> 4185.32] who lived the life, -[4185.68 --> 4186.24] we should have lived, -[4186.30 --> 4187.18] and who died the death, -[4187.40 --> 4187.88] that we deserve. -[4187.98 --> 4188.72] The same Jesus, -[4188.88 --> 4189.70] three days later, -[4189.76 --> 4191.46] was raised victorious, -[4191.82 --> 4193.12] over sin and death, -[4193.18 --> 4194.26] and he has ascended, -[4194.38 --> 4195.16] to the right hand, -[4195.30 --> 4196.10] of God the Father, -[4196.18 --> 4197.08] where he will one day, -[4197.16 --> 4198.08] come back to judge, -[4198.22 --> 4198.76] the living, -[4199.14 --> 4199.80] and the dead. -[4200.12 --> 4201.64] This is Jesus, -[4201.94 --> 4203.44] this is who he is, -[4203.52 --> 4205.28] and this is the word of him, -[4205.48 --> 4207.22] you need to hear, -[4207.50 --> 4208.22] and believe. -[4208.22 --> 4209.66] This is the gift, -[4209.66 --> 4210.50] of grace, -[4211.48 --> 4211.96] and faith. -[4216.24 --> 4217.88] And what this parable does, -[4219.32 --> 4221.48] it says that real hearing, -[4222.06 --> 4224.30] real hearing, -[4224.38 --> 4225.98] of that truth, -[4226.34 --> 4227.46] looks like, -[4228.38 --> 4228.88] obeying. -[4230.34 --> 4230.74] In fact, -[4231.04 --> 4231.82] in Hebrew, -[4232.24 --> 4233.30] the word to hear, -[4233.58 --> 4234.94] is often translated, -[4235.32 --> 4235.90] to obey. -[4237.20 --> 4237.76] And so, -[4237.76 --> 4238.78] let's come back, -[4239.04 --> 4240.02] full circle now, -[4240.24 --> 4241.16] if you are looking, -[4241.16 --> 4242.56] for a better foundation, -[4242.56 --> 4243.88] on which to question, -[4244.06 --> 4244.72] the authenticity, -[4245.18 --> 4246.08] of your faith, -[4246.28 --> 4247.18] rather than joy, -[4247.28 --> 4247.94] or an experience, -[4248.12 --> 4248.80] of some sort of, -[4248.92 --> 4249.98] emotional response, -[4250.38 --> 4250.48] right, -[4250.52 --> 4251.58] the question is, -[4251.64 --> 4253.06] the foundational question is, -[4253.28 --> 4254.50] am I obeying? -[4254.70 --> 4255.70] Am I striving, -[4255.70 --> 4256.80] to obey? -[4257.22 --> 4258.04] Am I trying, -[4258.04 --> 4259.22] to live the life, -[4259.50 --> 4260.52] that Jesus wants me, -[4260.60 --> 4260.92] to live, -[4260.98 --> 4261.44] in the way, -[4261.54 --> 4262.60] that Jesus wants me, -[4262.64 --> 4263.02] to live it? -[4263.14 --> 4264.14] That's the fruit, -[4264.20 --> 4264.90] of faith. -[4265.48 --> 4265.98] The fruit, -[4266.06 --> 4267.22] of hearing the word, -[4267.22 --> 4268.68] and it being planted, -[4268.68 --> 4269.92] deep in your heart, -[4270.08 --> 4271.20] and growing out, -[4271.32 --> 4272.58] and transforming you, -[4272.66 --> 4273.60] into the image, -[4274.10 --> 4274.68] of Jesus. -[4275.98 --> 4276.72] And again, -[4276.84 --> 4277.52] let me be, -[4277.68 --> 4278.98] really clear, -[4279.10 --> 4280.10] because sometimes, -[4280.28 --> 4281.06] you will hear, -[4281.22 --> 4282.24] preachers say, -[4282.94 --> 4283.78] that the multiplication, -[4283.78 --> 4284.68] of the fruit, -[4284.78 --> 4285.24] that 30, -[4285.42 --> 4285.92] 60, -[4286.04 --> 4286.84] or 100 times, -[4286.98 --> 4288.56] is a miraculous gift. -[4288.56 --> 4291.76] but it's not. -[4293.68 --> 4294.94] It's ordinary. -[4296.42 --> 4297.86] That's the expected, -[4297.86 --> 4299.40] yield of the crop. -[4300.34 --> 4300.44] Right, -[4300.50 --> 4301.30] 100 times, -[4301.36 --> 4302.50] would be a good harvest, -[4302.60 --> 4303.02] no doubt, -[4303.60 --> 4304.24] but it's not, -[4304.30 --> 4305.38] an unexpected one. -[4306.12 --> 4306.26] Right, -[4306.28 --> 4306.84] the point is, -[4306.92 --> 4308.40] this kind of fruit bearing, -[4308.88 --> 4310.00] this kind of hearing, -[4310.42 --> 4311.58] yielding to obedience, -[4311.86 --> 4313.44] is what you can expect, -[4313.74 --> 4315.66] as a disciple of Jesus, -[4316.14 --> 4316.98] who hears the gospel, -[4316.98 --> 4318.44] and lives in its truth. -[4318.66 --> 4319.56] That you manifest, -[4319.66 --> 4321.16] a transformed life. -[4321.26 --> 4322.22] This is the ordinary, -[4322.22 --> 4323.20] expectation, -[4323.52 --> 4324.48] of the disciple. -[4325.82 --> 4325.92] Right, -[4325.94 --> 4327.26] if you want to live, -[4327.34 --> 4327.80] obedient, -[4327.92 --> 4328.68] if you are struggling, -[4328.68 --> 4329.70] to live in the way, -[4329.70 --> 4330.20] that Jesus, -[4330.38 --> 4331.84] is calling you to live, -[4332.48 --> 4333.52] if there is a desire, -[4333.76 --> 4334.28] in you, -[4334.36 --> 4335.40] to more and more, -[4335.56 --> 4336.24] do that. -[4336.54 --> 4336.90] Perhaps, -[4337.02 --> 4337.58] especially, -[4337.92 --> 4339.08] when you don't feel, -[4339.18 --> 4339.66] like it. -[4340.42 --> 4340.84] That, -[4341.08 --> 4341.84] is a mark, -[4341.94 --> 4342.70] of the authenticity, -[4343.28 --> 4344.00] of belief, -[4344.18 --> 4345.32] that you can build, -[4345.40 --> 4346.50] a foundation upon. -[4346.50 --> 4346.64] Now, -[4347.30 --> 4348.74] now please, -[4349.50 --> 4351.34] hear what I'm saying, -[4351.92 --> 4353.76] because I'm not saying, -[4353.90 --> 4354.96] that what you have to do, -[4355.04 --> 4355.56] is obey, -[4355.68 --> 4356.50] in order to earn, -[4356.56 --> 4357.40] the right to hear. -[4357.62 --> 4358.76] Or that you have to obey, -[4358.88 --> 4359.62] in order to earn, -[4359.70 --> 4360.74] the gift of faith, -[4360.80 --> 4361.32] or to earn, -[4361.44 --> 4362.92] the grace of God. -[4363.52 --> 4363.76] Right, -[4363.80 --> 4364.30] or that, -[4364.82 --> 4365.06] right, -[4365.12 --> 4366.36] if you disobey, -[4366.46 --> 4367.08] that you're somehow, -[4367.26 --> 4368.88] outside of belief, -[4369.18 --> 4369.62] and believing. -[4369.70 --> 4370.92] Or that if you have doubts, -[4371.22 --> 4372.20] then your belief, -[4372.36 --> 4373.20] is uncertain. -[4373.20 --> 4373.40] And, -[4373.40 --> 4377.28] we all struggle, -[4377.66 --> 4379.02] with obedience. -[4379.90 --> 4380.90] We all struggle, -[4380.90 --> 4382.16] with sin. -[4382.30 --> 4383.06] We all struggle, -[4383.26 --> 4384.20] with doubts. -[4384.50 --> 4385.76] The mark of belief, -[4386.04 --> 4387.06] is that you struggle, -[4387.50 --> 4388.08] with it. -[4389.36 --> 4389.90] Right, -[4389.94 --> 4390.94] instead of just accepting, -[4391.96 --> 4392.98] or instead of just doing, -[4393.16 --> 4394.64] as culture has done, -[4394.74 --> 4395.74] which is turning vices, -[4395.74 --> 4396.94] into virtues, -[4397.10 --> 4397.88] or turning sins, -[4397.98 --> 4399.04] into celebrations. -[4400.02 --> 4400.44] Instead, -[4401.44 --> 4402.50] what I'm saying, -[4403.48 --> 4404.42] is that you hear, -[4404.54 --> 4406.06] with a receptive heart, -[4407.00 --> 4407.88] and so you obey. -[4408.54 --> 4409.04] Belief, -[4409.38 --> 4410.20] precedes, -[4410.58 --> 4411.10] obedience. -[4411.82 --> 4413.00] Even the possibility, -[4413.22 --> 4414.00] of obedience, -[4414.30 --> 4414.90] must come, -[4415.30 --> 4416.54] after belief. -[4416.66 --> 4418.08] Even if it is a full belief, -[4418.42 --> 4419.16] or a belief, -[4419.24 --> 4420.04] full of questions, -[4420.40 --> 4420.80] and doubts, -[4420.96 --> 4421.36] and struggles, -[4421.48 --> 4422.02] and setbacks. -[4422.18 --> 4422.90] Even then, -[4422.98 --> 4424.16] you can expect, -[4424.36 --> 4425.18] to produce, -[4425.44 --> 4425.96] the fruit, -[4426.24 --> 4426.84] of belief. -[4426.84 --> 4428.72] Now, -[4428.80 --> 4429.72] maybe that fruit, -[4430.04 --> 4432.32] is loving someone, -[4432.44 --> 4433.92] in an impossible situation. -[4435.48 --> 4436.64] Maybe that fruit, -[4436.78 --> 4437.76] is joy, -[4437.94 --> 4438.46] in the truth, -[4438.62 --> 4439.46] of the gospel, -[4439.70 --> 4440.42] in the sovereignty, -[4440.88 --> 4441.46] of God. -[4442.10 --> 4443.06] Maybe that truth, -[4443.32 --> 4443.34] is, -[4443.60 --> 4444.20] or that fruit, -[4444.34 --> 4445.32] is peace, -[4445.44 --> 4446.56] when all of life, -[4446.64 --> 4447.48] is chaos. -[4447.82 --> 4447.96] Right, -[4448.00 --> 4448.86] then we can sing, -[4449.00 --> 4449.76] it is well, -[4449.82 --> 4450.64] at a funeral. -[4453.52 --> 4454.60] Maybe that fruit, -[4454.78 --> 4455.66] is patience, -[4455.82 --> 4456.42] when your kids, -[4456.42 --> 4457.46] are driving you insane. -[4458.80 --> 4459.60] Maybe that fruit, -[4459.70 --> 4460.38] is kindness, -[4460.70 --> 4461.28] to those, -[4461.34 --> 4461.96] whom society, -[4461.96 --> 4462.62] has rejected, -[4462.76 --> 4463.22] or ignored. -[4463.36 --> 4463.98] Maybe that fruit, -[4464.20 --> 4465.02] is doing good, -[4465.08 --> 4466.22] when it would be so easy, -[4466.22 --> 4467.20] to do wrong. -[4467.30 --> 4467.90] Maybe that fruit, -[4468.02 --> 4468.82] is faithfulness, -[4469.04 --> 4469.94] when infidelity, -[4469.94 --> 4471.34] would be so easy. -[4471.46 --> 4472.06] Maybe that fruit, -[4472.18 --> 4472.88] is gentleness, -[4473.10 --> 4473.84] when you're angry. -[4474.00 --> 4474.60] Maybe that fruit, -[4474.70 --> 4475.62] is self-control, -[4475.96 --> 4476.68] as a mastery, -[4476.78 --> 4477.64] over temptations, -[4477.86 --> 4478.36] and desires. -[4478.44 --> 4478.82] Or at least, -[4478.90 --> 4479.72] a gaining of, -[4479.78 --> 4480.80] a working towards, -[4481.16 --> 4481.56] mastery, -[4481.82 --> 4482.90] over your temptations, -[4483.10 --> 4484.02] and desires. -[4484.02 --> 4485.82] And then, -[4486.94 --> 4487.74] and hear this, -[4487.78 --> 4488.62] this is the final point. -[4490.92 --> 4491.80] Because hearing, -[4491.94 --> 4493.08] is more about, -[4493.08 --> 4493.72] obeying, -[4493.80 --> 4494.48] than feeling, -[4495.48 --> 4496.90] how you hear, -[4497.90 --> 4499.12] is in your hands. -[4500.74 --> 4501.94] That's in your control. -[4503.30 --> 4504.14] Because whether, -[4504.34 --> 4505.36] or not you obey, -[4505.52 --> 4506.58] and choose to obey, -[4507.24 --> 4508.28] is up to you. -[4509.72 --> 4511.02] You are responsible, -[4511.02 --> 4512.54] for that. -[4518.42 --> 4519.76] The one who has ears, -[4520.50 --> 4521.02] to hear, -[4522.02 --> 4524.04] let them hear. -[4525.42 --> 4526.22] Do you hear me? -[4529.12 --> 4530.20] Let's try that again. -[4531.44 --> 4532.16] Do you hear me? -[4533.36 --> 4533.66] Amen. -[4534.22 --> 4534.86] Let's pray together. -[4534.86 --> 4534.94] Amen. -[4534.94 --> 4534.98] Let's pray together. -[4541.02 --> 4542.94] Lord our God, -[4543.72 --> 4546.72] may we hear you, -[4547.92 --> 4549.08] this morning. -[4550.98 --> 4552.90] May this parable, -[4553.10 --> 4553.68] this story, -[4553.82 --> 4554.80] this gospel, -[4555.08 --> 4556.36] truth of old, -[4556.48 --> 4558.08] may this statement, -[4558.08 --> 4559.14] of belief, -[4559.38 --> 4560.96] and recognition, -[4561.42 --> 4562.68] of what is real, -[4563.12 --> 4563.82] go deep, -[4563.82 --> 4565.40] into our hearts, -[4565.66 --> 4566.54] and minds, -[4566.70 --> 4567.30] this morning. -[4567.40 --> 4568.70] May we be captivated, -[4568.70 --> 4569.34] by the beauty, -[4569.34 --> 4570.02] of the gospel. -[4570.02 --> 4571.02] May we be compelled, -[4571.26 --> 4572.42] in our imaginations, -[4572.56 --> 4573.02] to reveal, -[4573.12 --> 4573.92] the kingdom come, -[4574.16 --> 4575.10] and the kingdom coming, -[4575.22 --> 4577.54] because we see you. -[4578.54 --> 4579.88] Because we have seen you, -[4579.96 --> 4581.68] and are seen by you. -[4583.42 --> 4584.96] Speak in truth, -[4585.46 --> 4586.18] to us. -[4586.76 --> 4587.84] And as we go, -[4588.44 --> 4589.18] may we live, -[4589.42 --> 4590.74] that truth, -[4590.84 --> 4591.60] and produce, -[4592.14 --> 4592.70] a crop, -[4592.96 --> 4593.30] 30, -[4593.76 --> 4594.30] 60, -[4594.90 --> 4595.88] 100 times, -[4596.00 --> 4596.74] of faithful, -[4597.36 --> 4597.76] fruitful, -[4597.76 --> 4598.76] obedience, -[4599.92 --> 4600.18] to you. -[4600.60 --> 4601.34] In Jesus name, -[4601.42 --> 4601.76] we pray. -[4602.58 --> 4602.84] Amen. -[4602.84 --> 4602.90] Amen. -[4602.90 --> 4602.92] Amen. -[4602.92 --> 4605.00] Amen. -[4605.00 --> 4607.00] You -[4635.00 --> 4650.50] Our Father everlasting, the all-creating one, God Almighty. -[4650.50 --> 4664.74] Through your Holy Spirit, conceiving Christ the Son, Jesus our Savior. -[4667.68 --> 4678.22] I believe in God the Father, I believe in Christ the Son, I believe in the Holy Spirit. -[4678.22 --> 4689.26] Our God is three in one, I believe in the resurrection, that we will rise again. -[4689.72 --> 4695.74] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[4708.22 --> 4717.48] Our judge and our defender, suffered and crucified. -[4719.28 --> 4722.22] Forgiveness is in you. -[4722.22 --> 4732.22] He said, live into darkness, you rose in glorious light. -[4733.22 --> 4737.22] Forever seated high. -[4737.22 --> 4748.22] I believe in God our Father, I believe in Christ the Son, I believe in the Holy Spirit. -[4748.22 --> 4752.22] Our God is three in one. -[4752.22 --> 4759.48] I believe in the resurrection, that we will rise again. -[4759.48 --> 4765.72] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[4765.72 --> 4769.48] I believe in God. -[4769.48 --> 4773.98] I believe in you. -[4773.98 --> 4777.04] I believe in you. -[4777.04 --> 4781.22] I believe in you rose again. -[4781.22 --> 4792.04] I believe that Jesus Christ is Lord. -[4794.46 --> 4801.62] I believe in you. -[4803.12 --> 4807.56] I believe you rose again. -[4807.56 --> 4818.56] I believe that Jesus Christ is Lord. -[4823.56 --> 4827.92] I believe in life eternal. -[4828.70 --> 4831.96] I believe in the virgin birth. -[4831.96 --> 4839.40] I believe in the saints communion and in your holy church. -[4839.60 --> 4846.36] I believe in the resurrection when Jesus comes again. -[4846.36 --> 4852.72] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[4853.72 --> 4856.60] I believe in God our Father. -[4857.22 --> 4860.26] I believe in Christ our Son. -[4860.68 --> 4863.48] I believe in the Holy Spirit. -[4864.20 --> 4867.34] Our God is three in one. -[4867.34 --> 4870.20] I believe in the resurrection. -[4870.90 --> 4873.34] That we will rise again. -[4874.54 --> 4880.18] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[4880.18 --> 4887.38] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[4888.90 --> 4889.40] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[4889.40 --> 4893.30] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[4893.30 --> 4897.28] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[4897.28 --> 4902.16] We have an opportunity now to go out into the world -[4902.16 --> 4907.04] and proclaim our Savior in whom we believe, -[4907.18 --> 4908.78] with whom we go. -[4908.78 --> 4912.08] He goes with us. -[4912.12 --> 4915.96] Before I give you our blessing for the days and week ahead, -[4916.06 --> 4918.10] just a reminder, following our worship together, -[4918.22 --> 4920.08] we are having some coffee and the like, -[4920.14 --> 4921.16] so stick around for that. -[4921.96 --> 4925.50] And then at 12-ish, we will be playing baseball. -[4925.66 --> 4926.78] For those of you who want to come, -[4926.84 --> 4929.28] or if you want to come, just hang out with a potluck picnic. -[4929.84 --> 4931.64] That's at McLeod Park. -[4931.64 --> 4936.94] And so 216 north of 56, there's a parking lot on the left. -[4936.94 --> 4937.72] You can park there. -[4937.80 --> 4940.12] We're at one of the South Diamonds. -[4940.20 --> 4941.80] Anyway, you'll find Kevin there. -[4941.86 --> 4943.40] He'll have a big tent set up for you. -[4944.10 --> 4944.98] And me as well. -[4945.28 --> 4946.74] Anyway, you'll find us there. -[4946.76 --> 4949.36] If you don't know where that is or need further instructions, -[4949.60 --> 4951.68] grab Kevin or myself after the service. -[4951.68 --> 4955.62] Receive God's blessing as we go this week. -[4956.70 --> 4960.86] May God go before you to lead you. -[4961.86 --> 4964.80] May God go behind you to guard you. -[4965.44 --> 4967.78] May God go beneath you to support you. -[4967.94 --> 4971.52] And may God go beside you to befriend you. -[4972.08 --> 4974.36] Do not be afraid. -[4974.36 --> 4976.76] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[4976.90 --> 4979.04] Do not be afraid. -[4979.58 --> 4984.86] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[4985.76 --> 4986.28] Amen. -[4986.28 --> 4986.38] Amen. -[5004.36 --> 5016.96] Everlasting, everlasting, you are God. -[5016.96 --> 5031.10] Everlasting, everlasting, you are God. -[5031.10 --> 5039.10] And holiness, you stand secure through culture-shifting cells. -[5039.44 --> 5045.10] Changed by all the manatees of men. -[5045.10 --> 5052.50] And as the nations rise and fall, your sovereignty remains. -[5052.50 --> 5063.50] You are, you are, you are, you are the one true God. -[5063.50 --> 5077.50] Everlasting, everlasting, you are God. -[5077.50 --> 5090.50] Everlasting, everlasting, you are God. -[5090.50 --> 5091.50] You are God. -[5091.50 --> 5098.50] Faithfulness, your love extends through times of turbulence. -[5098.50 --> 5105.50] The topic knows to call upon your name. -[5105.50 --> 5112.50] Every generation joins in songs of grateful praise. -[5112.50 --> 5125.50] You are, you are, you are the one true God. -[5125.50 --> 5126.50] Everlasting, everlasting, you are God. -[5126.50 --> 5132.50] You are, you are God. -[5132.50 --> 5138.58] you are God. -[5140.58 --> 5152.92] Everlasting, everlasting, you are God. -[5152.92 --> 5165.70] Eternal, immortal, invisible God. -[5167.70 --> 5178.76] Eternal, immortal, invisible God. -[5178.76 --> 5192.76] Eternal, immortal, invisible God. -[5194.76 --> 5205.76] Eternal, immortal, invisible God. -[5208.76 --> 5213.76] You are God. -[5213.76 --> 5218.76] Eternal, immortal, invisible God. -[5218.76 --> 5223.76] Eternal, immortal, reference to the urge for you. -[5223.76 --> 5224.76] In YouTube, by the increasing age, -[5224.76 --> 5228.76] bar'-char coordination is included in itself, -[5228.76 --> 5229.76] as a expectation. -[5230.76 --> 5231.76] It will be necessary. -[5231.76 --> 5261.74] Thank you. -[5261.76 --> 5291.74] Thank you. -[5291.76 --> 5321.74] Thank you. -[5321.76 --> 5351.74] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 5 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 5 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index da82ebe459b9be3ea1d43a4f4a4e219f648e1f23..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 5 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,160 +0,0 @@ -• Renovations at the church are ongoing -• Changes to the building's appearance -• Excitement for progress and new developments -• Introduction of Chris, a pastor leading worship -• Announcement of a teaching series with Pastor Kevin -• Appreciation for volunteers who contributed to renovation work -• Call for additional leaders in children's worship time -• Invitation to interested individuals to discuss serving in the ministry -• Looking for GEMS coordinator or co-coordinator to work with Courtney -• Seeking new cadet leaders for young boys ministry -• Reactivate youth conference next weekend and volunteer opportunities -• Hosting pancake breakfast fundraiser tomorrow morning -• Lord's Supper is next week, not this week -• Upcoming projects including replacing carpet and chairs in worship space -• Praise and worship songs -• Reference to God, Jesus Christ, and the Bible (1 John 1) -• Themes of light, darkness, sin, forgiveness, and purification -• Descriptions of God's love, life-giving nature, and restoration of broken hearts -• Invitations to pour out praise and shout His name -• Worship and praise to God -• Introduction to New Ground program and its purpose -• Explanation of offerings for church budget and New Ground -• Importance of love and community in Christianity -• Call to give generously to current offering (Resonate Global Missions) -• Prayer for the Holy Spirit's presence and guidance -• Invitation for children to come forward for a blessing -• Discussion about starting school on Tuesday -• Prayer for the kids as they go to Children's Worship Time or sit with their parents -• Blessing ritual for the children -• Church family prayer, including: - + Thanking God for abundance and freedom in Murrayville - + Asking for strength to be lights for God and good stewards of what has been given - + Praying for those affected by Hurricane Ida, the Haitian people after the earthquake, and the Afghan people after the Taliban takeover -• The pastor prays for those involved in the upcoming federal election, asking for a good understanding of what it means to serve the country and a measure of God's spirit. -• He also prays for individuals dealing with health struggles and treatments, as well as their caregivers. -• The congregation is prayed for, including seniors at Emmanuel, university students, and parents and students in the school system. -• The pastor asks for blessings on the offerings and encourages members to support the budget and other ministries. -• He expresses gratitude to God for meeting him on Sunday and thanks the congregation for participating in the "Ask Anything" series. -• Kevin is invited to facilitate answering remaining questions from the summer series, with an opportunity for further discussion after the service. -• Origin and authorship of the Bible -• Textual criticism and authorship theories (including redaction criticism) -• The Pentateuch's authorship and dating, with a focus on Moses' role -• Historical periods and archaeological evidence for the exodus -• Authorship and compilation of Old Testament historical books -• Wisdom literature and authorship attributions (e.g. David, Solomon) -• Prophetic writings and their authors (e.g. Isaiah, Malachi) -• The formation and compilation of the final Bible -• The canon of Scripture refers to the collection of writings recognized as authoritative or the voice of God to his people -• The Old Testament canon was fixed by about the 3rd century BC, and the New Testament canon was officially discerned at the Synod of Hippo in 393 AD -• The church "discerned" which books are authoritative, not decided based on human will or power -• Criteria for canonicity include Catholicity (applicable to the whole church), Antiquity (age), Orthodoxy (accuracy), and Apostolicity (relating to the apostles) -• Not all New Testament books were written by the apostles, but they contain their teaching -• The Bible's current formatting has its own history, with chapter divisions not standardized until the 3rd century AD and verse markings in the Old Testament standardized around 900 AD -• Debate among scholars about correct interpretation of Bible verses -• Standardization of Bible texts through conversations and printing press -• Canonization of the Bible after Christ's death -• Reliability of the Bible as a trustworthy representation of original authors' intentions -• Evidence from source criticism, including over 25,000 early manuscripts for the New Testament -• Comparison to Homer's Iliad, with only 643 manuscripts available -• Accuracy of the New Testament at 99.8% -• Discrepancies in minor areas not affecting doctrine -• Trustworthiness of the Bible requiring the Holy Spirit -• Dependence on the Holy Spirit to reveal and apply Scripture -• God's Word accomplishing its purpose when spoken -• Bible's trustworthiness and reliability -• Role of the Holy Spirit in applying faith -• Comparison between the Bible and the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as a cohesive story -• The Bible's unity in telling one story about Jesus Christ -• Managing anger towards God or at God -• Biblical guidance on handling anger, specifically Ephesians 4:26 -• Expressions of anger at God's presence or lack thereof -• Psalm 13 and Psalm 22 as examples of lamenting God's seeming abandonment -• Jeremiah's experience of feeling deceived by God and seeking revenge -• The importance of bringing anger towards God to God in a genuine and authentic way -• Clinging to God's sovereignty and covenant promises in the face of emotions -• Clinging to the covenant promises of God in times of anger -• The covenant identity of God as a refuge, strength, and help in trouble (Psalm 46) -• Moses' experience of God's character in Exodus 34: compassionate, gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love -• Trusting in God's character when feelings contradict it (e.g. Psalm 13) -• The catechism's teaching on clinging to the covenant identity of God in times of difficulty -• Expressing anger towards God is a valid response, but it's essential to understand that God has reasons and purposes beyond human understanding. -• The Bible gives people license to express their emotions to God, including anger. -• God's sovereignty is necessary for giving meaning and purpose in times of suffering or struggle. -• Community and the presence of others who can speak truth into our lives are crucial for navigating difficult emotions and circumstances. -• Christianity is distinct from other world religions. -• Distinction between religion, irreligion, and gospel -• Definition of religion as earning reward or achieving a goal through work or effort -• Irreligion defined as indifference, hostility, or lack of religious belief -• Contrast between modern secular West being more irreligious than religious -• Explanation of Christianity as the gospel, not about earning salvation but God's action to come to humanity -• Example from Dorothy Sayers' Lord Peter Whimsey Stories illustrating God's action in human history. -• She and Peter fall in love and get married -• Dorothy Sayers writes herself into her Lord Peter Wimsey stories after falling in love with the character's pain and loneliness -• The concept of God writing himself into human history through Jesus Christ -• Christianity is unique because it has a historical foundation, unlike other world religions -• The Bible contains a comprehensive history of the world and its structure -• Christianity is rooted in history and its claims can be historically tested and proven or disproven -• This makes Christianity the most falsifiable religion in the world -• The speaker argues that many religions rely on untestable claims and lack historic details about their central events -• Michael Payton's example is used to illustrate how a false religion would avoid making specific, falsifiable claims -• A hypothetical new religion is proposed, with its founder avoiding detailed, testable claims -• Christianity is presented as different from other religions due to its reliance on historical, verifiable events in the life of Jesus -• Reference to 1 Corinthians 15 and the resurrection of Jesus -• Discussion of Mark 4 and the story of Jesus in a boat -• Analysis of Peter's possible influence on Mark's writing -• Importance of historical rootedness in Christianity -• Claim that Christianity is the "religion that works" due to its transformative power -• The host attempts to break the ice with a joke about roast beef and pea soup -• Transition to Thunder Round 4, but it's delayed -• Discussion of Acts Chapter 2 in the Bible, specifically the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Peter and the disciples -• Question: Was the gift of tongues a permanent gift or temporary, given only to the crowd that heard Peter's speech? -• The absence of evidence in the book of Acts does not necessarily mean that speaking in tongues or understanding different languages did not occur. -• The cultural and geopolitical context of the time is relevant to understanding the Pentecost festival described in the book of Acts. -• Aramaic was a common language spoken by Jews in Palestine and Israel, Greek was the lingua franca of the region due to Alexander's conquests, and Latin may have been spoken by Roman officials and people from Rome. -• Hebrew was mainly used for specific religious or high-political events, and it is possible that many people did not understand what was being said during services. -• Neo-Phrygian dialects may also have been spoken, but this is a small chance and would likely be related to Greek. -• The idea of multilingualism and language understanding in ancient contexts -• Discussion of the word "tongues" (glosius) in Greek and its multiple meanings, including tongue, languages, and a special prayer language -• Reference to Acts 2, Acts 19, 1 Corinthians 11-14, and 1 Corinthians 13 -• Explanation that the New Testament's use of "tongues" encompasses both human languages and a special spiritual language for communication with God -• Clarification of Paul's statement in 1 Corinthians 13 that love is more important than speaking in tongues. -• Cessationism and the Spirit's operation -• Tongues having an end point to their usefulness -• Special gifts having a defined term of use, unlike love -• Questioning God's existence and seeking understanding through questioning -• The importance of doubting and questioning in perceiving truth and finding God -• The speaker shares a personal story of crisis of faith and existential doubt at age 26 while studying theology -• They describe how they were challenging to be around, and their friends allowed them to express anxiety and process through questioning and crying -• The importance of community in times of crisis of faith is emphasized, with the example that if it weren't for their supportive group, the speaker wouldn't be where they are today -• Quoting Diedrich Bonhoeffer, Christ in another person's heart can be stronger than one's own faith, and doubt is seen as a good thing -• Doubt is a natural part of faith -• Doubt can become toxic if internalized or shouted from the mountaintops without genuine discussion or engagement -• Internal struggles and improper coping mechanisms can result from unresolved doubt -• Evangelical deconversion stories have become more prevalent in recent years, often due to unresolved issues with doubt -• A person has apologized for past harm caused by their book -• They have gone through a public deconversion experience and now promotes deconstruction of faith -• Another example is Rhett and Link, who also went through a public deconversion experience on YouTube -• The importance of allowing people to doubt and question God's existence in order to grow in faith -• Being a place where it is okay to ask hard questions and be skeptical of answers given by the church -• Encouraging critical thinking and discernment in exploring one's faith -• Discussion of difficult topics -• Importance of community and unity -• Reference to Jesus and following His way -• Prayer for guidance, wisdom, and faithfulness in daily life -• Seeking God's presence and promises -• Encouragement to ask hard questions and seek God's truth -• Worthiness of Jesus -• God's love and presence -• Ability to break seals and open stones -• Judah, David, and the Lamb -• Kingdom of God and reign of the Son -• Worthy of blessing, honor, and glory -• Reminder to join a pancake breakfast and fundraiser -• Blessing and protection from God -• Recitation of a prayer or chant, possibly in multiple languages -• Invocation of God's favor and presence -• Reference to "your name" as power over darkness -• Mention of freedom for captives, mercy for the broken, and hopelessness -• Glory in struggle, mightiness, and faithfulness -• Expression of belief in change coming through divine intervention \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship - September 5 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship - September 5 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6bc43efcb7bdde3ce1db9135a991a4d8d522b8a4..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship - September 5 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2774 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.48] His power in the name of Jesus -[6.48 --> 16.54] Full of faith and wonder I will say -[16.54 --> 21.68] No other name but yours -[21.68 --> 25.14] Name but yours -[25.14 --> 28.02] Full of faith and wonder -[28.02 --> 29.84] I will say -[29.84 --> 34.96] No other name but yours -[34.96 --> 39.38] Name but yours -[39.38 --> 49.78] This name that storms the gates of hell -[49.78 --> 56.28] The only word my life will live to tell -[56.28 --> 64.60] On the earth will bow beneath the sun -[64.60 --> 67.14] Higher than the others -[67.14 --> 71.10] Higher than the others -[71.10 --> 75.92] Full of faith and wonder I will say -[75.92 --> 81.46] No other name but yours -[81.46 --> 84.46] Name but yours -[84.46 --> 89.92] Full of faith and wonder I will say -[89.92 --> 93.86] No other name but yours -[93.86 --> 97.86] Name but yours -[97.86 --> 100.78] Jesus -[100.78 --> 102.78] Jesus -[102.78 --> 104.74] Jesus -[104.74 --> 106.74] Jesus -[106.74 --> 108.86] Jesus -[108.86 --> 110.86] Jesus -[110.86 --> 115.24] Jesus -[115.24 --> 115.60] Jesus -[115.60 --> 119.74] Jesus -[119.74 --> 133.10] There is power in the name of Jesus -[133.10 --> 146.40] There is power in the name of Jesus -[146.40 --> 159.74] There is power in the name of Jesus -[159.74 --> 173.74] There is power in the name of Jesus -[173.74 --> 186.38] There is power in the name of Jesus -[189.74 --> 199.74] There is power in the name of Jesus -[199.74 --> 209.74] No faith and wonder I'll say -[209.74 --> 215.00] No other name but yours -[215.00 --> 217.74] Name but yours -[217.74 --> 222.74] No faith and wonder I'll say -[222.74 --> 227.74] No other name but yours -[227.74 --> 231.74] Name but yours -[231.74 --> 233.74] Jesus -[233.74 --> 235.74] Jesus -[235.74 --> 239.74] Jesus -[239.74 --> 241.74] Jesus -[241.74 --> 243.74] Jesus -[243.74 --> 247.74] There is power in the name of Jesus -[247.74 --> 251.74] Jesus -[251.74 --> 253.74] Jesus -[253.74 --> 257.74] There is power in the name of Jesus -[257.74 --> 261.74] There is power in the name of Jesus -[261.74 --> 267.74] There is power in the name of Jesus -[267.74 --> 277.74] There is power in the name of Jesus -[277.74 --> 279.74] We believe Lord -[279.74 --> 281.74] There is power in the name of Jesus -[281.74 --> 285.48] We believe, Lord, we sing. -[285.84 --> 293.12] There is power in the name of Jesus. -[295.62 --> 297.20] We declare. -[297.20 --> 306.56] There is power in the name of Jesus. -[306.56 --> 319.90] There is power in the name of Jesus. -[336.56 --> 338.56] Amen. -[366.56 --> 368.56] Amen. -[396.56 --> 398.32] It's who I am. -[399.04 --> 401.74] It's who I am. -[404.64 --> 411.80] Oh, and I've seen many searching for answers. -[413.02 --> 414.90] Good morning. -[415.82 --> 417.48] How's everyone doing this morning? -[417.98 --> 418.48] Good. -[419.44 --> 420.08] All right. -[420.20 --> 422.42] Welcome to church. -[422.52 --> 425.18] First of all, you can see some things have changed around here. -[425.18 --> 429.94] There's been a lot of work this week, but we are in the middle of that process. -[430.68 --> 436.34] And so forgive the in the middle of renovation look that we are here at. -[437.24 --> 438.72] It'll be this way for a little while. -[438.78 --> 443.94] We're waiting for carpet, but we are very excited to see some things progressing and happening -[443.94 --> 446.12] and coming about here. -[446.12 --> 452.98] So, also, sorry, someone was pointing over here. -[453.02 --> 453.66] I thought there was a problem. -[455.12 --> 457.14] Everyone's just impressed with the beautiful lights. -[459.96 --> 461.50] I would never say that, Kevin. -[461.50 --> 469.02] If you are visiting with us this morning or if you're participating online for the first time, -[469.08 --> 469.78] my name is Chris. -[470.00 --> 471.40] I'm one of the pastors here. -[471.62 --> 477.02] And along with these people on stage, it's my privilege to lead in worship this morning. -[477.68 --> 482.66] This morning, we are finishing our teaching series from the summer, and we're going to -[482.66 --> 486.88] do that a little bit differently with Pastor Kevin and myself on stage, but we'll come to -[486.88 --> 487.28] that later. -[487.28 --> 493.38] Before we begin, in earnest, I do want to just say a couple words of announcements and -[493.38 --> 493.88] thank you. -[493.96 --> 497.90] First of all, thank you to everyone who was involved in the project this week, who worked -[497.90 --> 499.14] long and late hours. -[500.42 --> 504.56] I'm not going to mention them by name because we want them to continue working long and late -[504.56 --> 508.28] hours for the next few weeks to finish this job, and so then you'll get named and we'll -[508.28 --> 509.48] celebrate you at that point. -[510.34 --> 515.02] But we do want to continue and thank God for all the people that he provides for volunteer -[515.02 --> 516.90] and for leading around here. -[517.28 --> 522.98] To that end, we are looking for a few more leaders to serve in different capacities. -[523.38 --> 527.48] And so we are looking for one more leader to serve in children's worship time. -[528.62 --> 533.20] We have Amy Humerts and Karis Verkaik who have stepped up and are going to share in that -[533.20 --> 536.42] leading, and we want one more person to work with them. -[536.50 --> 540.02] And so if you think you can do that or if you'd like to help in that ministry, you can -[540.02 --> 544.72] talk to either Amy or Karis or myself or Pastor Kevin, and we will get you connected -[544.72 --> 545.12] in that. -[545.12 --> 550.56] And as well, we're looking for one more GEMS coordinator or co-coordinator to work with -[550.56 --> 552.58] Courtney and provide there. -[552.64 --> 556.46] So if you think that's something you might be able to jump in and do, then we can plug -[556.46 --> 557.34] you in there as well. -[557.44 --> 561.24] So again, talk to myself or Pastor Kevin or Courtney, and we'll get you there. -[562.14 --> 566.70] And then additionally, new this week, we are looking for some new cadet leaders. -[566.70 --> 571.08] And so cadet is a young boys ministry that we do here. -[571.82 --> 573.66] Lots of hands-on projects. -[573.80 --> 577.72] You get to work with power tools and the like, and then also work with seven-year-olds working -[577.72 --> 578.52] with power tools. -[578.82 --> 581.70] So it's a great time of high-anxiety ministry. -[582.50 --> 586.34] But if you're interested in that, talk to myself or Pastor Kevin after service together. -[586.34 --> 592.04] Also, some of you have seen the announcement that came out in the e-bulletin for Reactivate, -[592.28 --> 597.12] which is a youth conference that's happening next weekend here in the Lower Mainland at -[597.12 --> 601.66] Willoughby Church, but it's inviting churches from all over BC to participate. -[602.18 --> 605.28] They need volunteers, and you can sign up for that in the e-bulletin. -[605.40 --> 607.42] If you have any questions, Pastor Kevin is your man. -[607.80 --> 608.58] He will answer them. -[608.58 --> 617.20] Finally, well, actually, penultimately, tomorrow morning, we are hosting a pancake breakfast -[617.20 --> 617.52] here. -[618.06 --> 621.42] So tomorrow morning is Labor Day, and so we want to invite you to rest from your labors -[621.42 --> 623.28] and allow us to labor for you. -[623.64 --> 628.54] And so myself and Pastor Kevin and Josh, our young adult ministry intern, we will be cooking -[628.54 --> 634.20] pancake breakfast for whoever shows up at 9 o'clock till whenever we're done. -[634.86 --> 636.44] And it'll be here in the foyer. -[636.66 --> 638.52] Lord willing, we'll be able to be outside in the courtyard. -[638.86 --> 640.50] And so come and join us for that. -[640.88 --> 642.60] We're doing this as a fundraiser. -[643.70 --> 650.52] Part of our ongoing projects here will be replacing the carpet and the chairs in our -[650.52 --> 651.42] worship space. -[651.42 --> 655.54] But we need to raise some capital in order to do that well and stewardly. -[655.54 --> 662.78] And so please come tomorrow, eat as many pancakes as you would like, and generously give as much -[662.78 --> 665.06] as you would like, or more. -[665.06 --> 670.50] The sooner we get that done, the sooner we can get the chairs and that project underway. -[670.50 --> 673.76] Now finally, last announcement. -[673.88 --> 678.18] Last week, we mistakenly announced that we would be having Lord's Supper this week. -[678.34 --> 679.10] That's on me. -[679.24 --> 680.34] I misspoke to the elder. -[680.88 --> 682.08] Lord's Supper is next week. -[682.08 --> 684.72] And so you've had a week to prepare your hearts. -[685.14 --> 688.04] Continue that preparation into this coming week. -[688.04 --> 693.28] If you have kids who participate, please talk to them about what it means to come to the table. -[693.28 --> 697.40] And if at any point throughout the week you have any questions about what it means to come to the table, -[697.64 --> 699.86] you can email or call or connect with me. -[700.10 --> 701.60] And I'm glad to speak with you as well. -[702.60 --> 703.92] I think I got them all. -[705.02 --> 707.24] It's Labor Day weekend, so we got to do lots of work, right? -[707.28 --> 707.92] That's what that means? -[708.84 --> 709.86] Let's stand together. -[709.86 --> 716.04] If you are able, and where you are, we'll be called into worship, and God will welcome us in his presence. -[716.92 --> 719.30] Receive the greeting of our good God. -[719.30 --> 728.56] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, -[729.32 --> 732.00] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[732.62 --> 734.80] All God's people said, amen. -[735.20 --> 735.90] Let's sing together. -[738.28 --> 743.54] Our call to worship this morning comes from the first two verses of Exodus 15. -[744.44 --> 748.30] I will sing to the Lord, for he is highly exalted. -[748.30 --> 752.74] Both horse and driver he has hurled into the sea. -[753.34 --> 755.96] The Lord is my strength and my defense. -[756.48 --> 758.30] He has become my salvation. -[759.00 --> 761.58] He is my God, and I will praise him. -[761.96 --> 764.54] My Father's God, and I will exalt him. -[764.54 --> 764.70] Amen. -[764.70 --> 791.32] I cast my line to Calvary, where Jesus bled and died for me. -[791.32 --> 799.66] I see his wounds, his hands, his feet. -[799.66 --> 806.36] My Savior, all that cursed and tree. -[806.36 --> 818.58] His body bowed and drenched in tears. -[818.58 --> 826.08] They laid him down in Joseph's tomb. -[826.08 --> 833.46] The entrance sealed by heavy stone. -[833.46 --> 840.42] Messiah still and all of all. -[840.42 --> 853.56] Oh, praise the name of the Lord our God. -[853.56 --> 860.56] Oh, praise his name forevermore. -[860.56 --> 868.66] For endless days we will sing your praise. -[868.66 --> 875.56] Oh, Lord, oh, Lord our God. -[875.56 --> 893.24] And on the earth at break of dawn, the Son of Heaven rose again. -[893.24 --> 896.92] Oh, trampled death. -[896.92 --> 900.48] Where is your sting? -[900.48 --> 907.62] The angel's woe for Christ the King. -[907.62 --> 918.62] Oh, praise the name of the Lord our God. -[918.62 --> 925.62] Oh, praise his name forevermore. -[925.62 --> 932.62] For endless days we will sing your praise. -[932.62 --> 939.62] Oh, Lord, oh, Lord our God. -[939.62 --> 940.62] God. -[940.62 --> 950.62] He shall return in robes of white. -[950.62 --> 958.62] The blazing sun shall pierce the night. -[958.62 --> 965.62] And I will rise among the saints. -[965.62 --> 975.62] My gaze transmits on Jesus' face. -[975.62 --> 981.30] The in Troy bowl. -[981.30 --> 984.72] Or read... -[985.04 --> 988.62] Or read... -[988.62 --> 994.10] Your, the son of God. -[994.10 --> 1002.58] Egypt shall pierce the night. -[1002.72 --> 1004.06] Pay God�im -[1004.06 --> 1013.82] Oh, praise the name of the Lord our God. -[1013.82 --> 1020.74] Oh, praise His name forevermore. -[1021.10 --> 1027.56] For endless days we will sing Your praise. -[1027.94 --> 1033.10] Oh, Lord, oh, Lord our God. -[1034.06 --> 1041.20] Oh, praise the name of the Lord our God. -[1041.20 --> 1048.00] Oh, praise His name forevermore. -[1048.34 --> 1054.20] For endless days we will sing Your praise. -[1055.18 --> 1060.70] Oh, Lord, oh, Lord our God. -[1060.70 --> 1067.84] Oh, Lord, oh, Lord our God. -[1067.84 --> 1074.98] Oh, Lord, oh, Lord our God. -[1074.98 --> 1076.98] Oh, Lord our God. -[1076.98 --> 1080.44] Confession and assurance comes to us from 1 John 1. -[1080.44 --> 1086.08] This is the message we have from Him and declare to you. -[1086.58 --> 1088.02] God is light. -[1088.58 --> 1091.54] In Him there is no darkness at all. -[1092.42 --> 1100.46] If we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. -[1100.46 --> 1108.46] But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another. -[1109.10 --> 1114.62] And the blood of Jesus, His Son, purifies us from all sin. -[1114.62 --> 1120.42] If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves. -[1120.76 --> 1123.26] And the truth is not in us. -[1123.76 --> 1134.50] If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. -[1134.50 --> 1149.18] If we confess our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness, we will forgive us from all unrighteousness. -[1149.44 --> 1153.46] We will forgive us from all unrighteousness and we will give you without sin. -[1153.46 --> 1154.08] You give up. -[1154.50 --> 1156.46] You are love. -[1156.72 --> 1161.40] You bring life to the darkness. -[1161.40 --> 1165.40] You give all, you restore -[1165.40 --> 1171.40] Every heart that is broken -[1171.40 --> 1178.40] Great are you, Lord -[1178.40 --> 1184.66] It's your breath in our lungs -[1184.66 --> 1187.86] So we pour out our praise -[1187.86 --> 1190.02] We pour out our praise -[1190.02 --> 1194.10] It's your breath in our lungs -[1194.10 --> 1197.32] So we pour out our praise -[1197.32 --> 1199.30] To you only -[1199.30 --> 1210.40] You give life -[1210.40 --> 1212.64] You are love -[1212.64 --> 1217.78] You bring light to the darkness -[1217.78 --> 1221.86] You give all, you restore -[1221.86 --> 1227.36] Every heart that is broken -[1227.36 --> 1235.86] Great are you, Lord -[1235.86 --> 1241.40] It's your breath in our lungs -[1241.40 --> 1244.56] So we pour out our praise -[1244.56 --> 1246.78] We pour out our praise -[1246.78 --> 1250.88] It's your breath in our lungs -[1250.88 --> 1254.08] So we pour out our praise -[1254.08 --> 1256.02] To you only -[1256.02 --> 1260.38] It's your breath in our lungs -[1260.38 --> 1263.66] So we pour out our praise -[1263.66 --> 1265.90] We pour out our praise -[1265.90 --> 1269.78] It's your breath in our lungs -[1269.78 --> 1273.26] So we pour out our praise -[1273.26 --> 1275.20] To you only -[1275.20 --> 1284.78] And all the earth will shout your praise -[1284.78 --> 1297.36] And all the earth will shout your praise -[1297.36 --> 1300.86] Our hearts will cry -[1300.86 --> 1304.00] These bones will sing -[1304.00 --> 1310.20] Great are you, Lord -[1310.20 --> 1314.28] Great are you, Lord -[1314.28 --> 1317.78] And all the earth will shout your praise -[1317.78 --> 1319.78] Our hearts will cry -[1319.78 --> 1322.78] These bones will sing -[1322.78 --> 1328.28] Great are you, Lord -[1328.28 --> 1337.86] Great are you, Lord -[1337.86 --> 1338.86] Great are you, Lord -[1338.86 --> 1339.86] Our hearts will cry -[1339.86 --> 1340.86] These bones will sing -[1340.86 --> 1344.86] Great are you, Lord -[1344.86 --> 1349.86] Great are you, Lord -[1349.86 --> 1359.44] And all the earth will shout your praise -[1359.44 --> 1360.38] God is broken -[1360.38 --> 1362.44] And all the earth will shout your praise -[1362.44 --> 1367.08] And all the earth will shout your praise -[1367.08 --> 1371.38] To you only -[1371.38 --> 1372.94] It's your breath in our lungs -[1372.94 --> 1377.08] So we pour out our praise -[1377.08 --> 1381.46] We pour out our praise, we pour out our praise. -[1381.52 --> 1385.60] It's your bread in our lives. -[1386.14 --> 1391.08] So we pour out our praise to you only. -[1407.08 --> 1409.08] Amen. -[1437.08 --> 1439.08] Amen. -[1467.08 --> 1469.08] Amen. -[1497.08 --> 1499.08] Amen. -[1499.08 --> 1500.08] Amen. -[1500.08 --> 1501.08] Amen. -[1501.08 --> 1502.08] Amen. -[1502.08 --> 1508.08] I am our God Almighty. -[1508.08 --> 1512.08] Worthy as the Lamb. -[1512.08 --> 1516.08] Worthy as the Lamb. -[1516.08 --> 1522.08] Amen. -[1522.08 --> 1527.08] Hallelujah. -[1527.08 --> 1529.08] Hallelujah. -[1529.08 --> 1536.08] Hallelujah. -[1536.08 --> 1541.08] For the Lord our right to raise. -[1541.08 --> 1546.08] Hallelujah. -[1546.08 --> 1551.08] Hallelujah. -[1551.08 --> 1556.84] For the Lord God Almighty raised -[1556.84 --> 1562.32] Alleluia -[1562.32 --> 1569.58] Glory, glory -[1569.58 --> 1575.96] The Lord God Almighty -[1575.96 --> 1580.54] Worthy as a man -[1580.54 --> 1583.34] Worthy as a man -[1583.34 --> 1586.32] For you are holy -[1586.32 --> 1590.04] Holy -[1590.04 --> 1596.98] Are you, Lord God Almighty? -[1599.12 --> 1601.84] Worthy as a man -[1601.84 --> 1604.46] Worthy as a man -[1604.46 --> 1607.34] For you are holy -[1607.34 --> 1611.12] Holy -[1611.12 --> 1618.12] Are you, Lord God Almighty? -[1620.26 --> 1623.32] Worthy as a man -[1623.32 --> 1626.28] Worthy as a man -[1626.28 --> 1629.02] Amen -[1629.02 --> 1636.74] You may have a seat -[1636.74 --> 1650.52] Good morning -[1650.52 --> 1657.12] Now is the opportunity for us to show Christ's love to others with the giving of our tithes and offerings -[1657.12 --> 1661.06] Today's offerings are for our church's budget and for New Ground -[1661.06 --> 1672.88] New Ground, formerly Operation Manna, is a program of the Diagonal Ministry Canada that helps churches across Canada reach beyond their walls and into their communities to show Christ's love -[1672.88 --> 1683.02] With the New Ground partnership churches receive coaching and seed money so that they can establish sustainable local ministries where it may not have been possible -[1683.02 --> 1688.06] When you give to New Ground, it's not just another offering to another cause -[1688.06 --> 1691.34] It's about the people who you reach out to through your gift -[1691.34 --> 1696.38] From John 13 verse 34 to 35, Jesus says -[1696.38 --> 1699.88] A new command I give you, love one another -[1699.88 --> 1703.76] As I have loved you, so you must love one another -[1703.76 --> 1709.04] By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another -[1709.04 --> 1715.48] Please refer to the church e-bulletin for the various options available to give to today's offerings -[1715.48 --> 1720.32] It's also important to remember that we use only one collection bag during the service -[1720.32 --> 1725.84] Anything not clearly marked budget will be automatically allocated towards the special offering -[1725.84 --> 1731.70] Should you require offering envelopes, please ask one of the deacons and they will be placed in your mailbox -[1731.70 --> 1736.14] Any questions for any of the deacons, we are here to help -[1736.14 --> 1740.90] Next week's offering is for Resonate Global Missions -[1740.90 --> 1741.90] Please give generously -[1766.14 --> 1772.90] Spirit of the Living God -[1772.90 --> 1776.90] Spirit of the Living God -[1776.90 --> 1780.90] Spirit of the Living God -[1780.90 --> 1783.90] We only want to hear your voice -[1783.90 --> 1786.90] We're hanging on every word -[1786.90 --> 1790.90] Spirit of the Living God -[1790.90 --> 1793.90] Spirit of the Living God -[1793.90 --> 1798.06] We want to know you more and more -[1798.06 --> 1800.66] You're hanging on every word -[1800.66 --> 1818.66] Spirit of the Living God -[1818.66 --> 1822.24] Spirit of the Living God -[1822.24 --> 1825.00] We only want to hear your voice -[1825.00 --> 1829.00] We're hanging on every word -[1829.00 --> 1833.00] Spirit of the Living God -[1833.00 --> 1836.00] Spirit of the Living God -[1836.00 --> 1839.48] We want to know you more and more -[1839.48 --> 1843.00] We're hanging on every word -[1843.00 --> 1844.76] Because when you speak -[1844.76 --> 1849.76] When you do what only you can do -[1849.76 --> 1851.68] It changes us -[1851.68 --> 1854.40] It changes what we see -[1854.40 --> 1856.50] And what we see -[1856.50 --> 1860.50] When you come in the room -[1860.50 --> 1863.76] When you do what only you can do -[1863.76 --> 1865.62] It changes us -[1865.62 --> 1868.38] It changes what we see -[1868.38 --> 1870.38] And what we see -[1870.38 --> 1879.14] Spirit of the Living God -[1879.14 --> 1885.14] Spirit of the Living God -[1885.14 --> 1897.86] spirit -[1897.86 --> 1902.48] Spirit of the living God -[1902.48 --> 1906.06] Spirit of the living God -[1906.06 --> 1909.46] Come now and breathe upon our hearts -[1909.46 --> 1912.52] Come now and have your way -[1912.52 --> 1916.44] Cause when you speak and when you move -[1916.44 --> 1919.66] When you do what only you can do -[1919.66 --> 1924.26] It changes us, it changes what we see -[1924.26 --> 1926.34] What we see -[1926.34 --> 1930.34] When you come in the room -[1930.34 --> 1933.68] When you do what only you can do -[1933.68 --> 1938.24] It changes us, it changes what we see -[1938.24 --> 1940.48] What we see -[1940.48 --> 1946.48] When you move, you move all our fears -[1946.48 --> 1958.48] When you move, you move all our fears -[1958.48 --> 1965.48] When you move, you move us to tears -[1965.48 --> 1971.48] When you move, you move all our fears -[1971.48 --> 1979.48] When you move, you move us to tears -[1979.48 --> 1986.48] And when you fall, we fall on our knees -[1986.48 --> 1993.48] When you fall, we fall at your knees -[1993.48 --> 2000.48] When you fall, we fall at your knees -[2000.48 --> 2006.48] When you fall, we fall at your knees -[2006.48 --> 2010.48] When you fall, we fall at your knees -[2010.48 --> 2011.48] When you fall, upon your knees -[2011.48 --> 2021.78] And when you move, when you do what only you can do, it changes us, it changes what we see. -[2022.18 --> 2035.66] And what we see when you come and move, when you do what only you can do, it changes us, it changes what we see. -[2035.66 --> 2037.84] What we see. -[2041.48 --> 2066.28] Spirit of the living God, Spirit of the living God, we only want to hear your voice, we're hanging on every word. -[2071.48 --> 2081.46] I'm going to invite the kids who are going to head out to Children's Worship Time to come up here so we can send them out with a blessing. -[2082.80 --> 2088.74] So I think that's like three to kindergarten or something like that for those who are going to Children's Worship Time. -[2088.80 --> 2093.22] But every other kid or young at heart, you can come on up and we'll give you a blessing as well. -[2093.22 --> 2101.02] Awesome. It's so good to see all you guys. How are you doing? -[2102.22 --> 2105.88] So I have a really important question for you. Who's ready for school on Tuesday? -[2108.58 --> 2112.82] Excited. So like 90% excited. There's one at the back who's kind of like, meh. -[2113.30 --> 2116.94] How about parents? Should I ask you? Who's ready for school on Tuesday? -[2116.94 --> 2122.86] None? Oh, okay. Three, four, one of you who's not. -[2123.94 --> 2125.94] They're not even in school anymore. I know. -[2127.86 --> 2129.68] So you guys are going to head, yeah? -[2131.26 --> 2133.82] When I'm five, I will go to kindergarten. -[2134.04 --> 2137.98] When you're five, you will go to kindergarten. You know what? I loved kindergarten. -[2138.82 --> 2140.08] That was so much fun. -[2140.08 --> 2146.08] It's been a long time since I've been in kindergarten. Yeah, thanks. Appreciate that. -[2148.78 --> 2155.80] Well, with that on our hearts and minds, we're going to pray for you as you guys head out to Children's Worship Time. -[2155.86 --> 2159.00] And then after I pray for you, we're going to do the blessing. -[2159.14 --> 2160.10] You remember how we do that? -[2160.10 --> 2166.04] We're going to stand up and we're going to face all the others here and we're going to say, the Lord be with you. -[2166.18 --> 2170.78] And then they're going to say, and also with you. Right? -[2171.20 --> 2173.86] Okay. I think they know how to do that, but we'll see when we get there. -[2173.92 --> 2175.60] Can I pray for you? Let's pray. -[2178.80 --> 2182.82] Good God, we come to you now in this prayer. -[2182.88 --> 2185.54] And we pray for our kids. -[2185.54 --> 2192.34] We pray for these little hearts as they go into Children's Worship or as they sit here with us. -[2192.54 --> 2194.84] May you work in them. -[2195.86 --> 2197.22] May they see you, Jesus. -[2198.32 --> 2199.60] May they know your love. -[2201.30 --> 2207.70] May they grow in faith here with us as we come together as a church. -[2209.06 --> 2211.12] Bless and keep their worship. -[2211.56 --> 2212.94] In Jesus' name we pray. -[2214.18 --> 2214.56] Amen. -[2215.54 --> 2216.34] Amen. -[2216.92 --> 2217.46] All right. -[2217.52 --> 2219.78] Why don't you guys stand and turn around. -[2221.40 --> 2225.00] And then all y'all can stand and you don't have to turn around. -[2226.76 --> 2230.06] We're going to hold our hands out and then together we will say, -[2231.18 --> 2233.34] The Lord be with you. -[2234.02 --> 2235.74] And also with you. -[2236.08 --> 2236.52] Amen. -[2237.34 --> 2239.12] Those of you who are going may go. -[2239.28 --> 2241.26] Those others can go back to your seats. -[2241.26 --> 2241.40] Amen. -[2245.54 --> 2247.44] Thank you. -[2247.44 --> 2248.24] Okay. -[2248.24 --> 2248.44] Okay. -[2250.86 --> 2250.90] Thank you. -[2250.92 --> 2265.02] Thank you. -[2265.02 --> 2278.38] okay let us go to our church family prayer today -[2278.38 --> 2286.08] triune god father the author of creation -[2286.08 --> 2294.34] jesus the earth's redeemer holy spirit the gift of strength for all people -[2295.02 --> 2300.46] we gather today as a community of your people here in murrayville -[2300.46 --> 2307.02] a community that is blessed abundantly with freedom to worship homes to live in -[2307.02 --> 2313.74] food in abundance opportunities to grow and share your word all around us -[2313.74 --> 2319.50] lord give us the strength to be lights for you -[2319.50 --> 2324.38] father we have to confess we miss so many opportunities to promote your word in our -[2324.38 --> 2330.94] walk of life please forgive us help us to be good stewards of what we have been -[2330.94 --> 2336.70] given help us to rely on the words of psalm 29 -[2336.70 --> 2342.62] the lord sits enthroned over the flood the lord is enthroned as king forever -[2342.62 --> 2350.06] the lord gives strength to his people the lord blesses his people with peace -[2350.06 --> 2356.62] we pray for all those that are affected by hurricane ida those that lost loved ones -[2356.62 --> 2362.94] those that are injured or lost their homes help them deal with this tragedy -[2362.94 --> 2369.50] give all the first responders that are dealing with this the means and strength -[2369.50 --> 2371.90] to help and support all those that need care -[2371.90 --> 2378.46] we continue to pray for all the haitian people who are dealing with the aftermath -[2378.46 --> 2385.74] from the earthquake and hurricane father provide what is needed there and stir in us to support -[2386.62 --> 2388.46] as well through the special offerings -[2390.30 --> 2396.30] we also remember all the afghanistan people whose lives were turned upside down with the taliban taking over -[2396.30 --> 2399.02] gipodelle who have assembled those that were taken cause of munitions -[2399.02 --> 2400.30] as этой tarde as the است which was appointed of thekin day -[2400.30 --> 2402.06] also were taken to bear with the councillors to build great voices -[2402.06 --> 2404.06] in offshea Village -[2404.38 --> 2408.86] lord give a sense of calm there too -[2409.02 --> 2412.06] we thank you that as we are nearing the end of summer -[2412.94 --> 2416.38] we are also seeing a calming in the forest fire situation -[2416.38 --> 2422.86] here thanks for the cooler temperatures and the moisture you have provided -[2422.86 --> 2427.46] But now as the next phase of clean up and rebuilding starts, -[2427.46 --> 2435.02] to happen, stir in each one of us of how we can help and support these efforts. -[2435.02 --> 2438.46] We ask you, Lord, to be with all those who are letting their names stand and wish to -[2438.46 --> 2442.30] serve in this upcoming federal election. -[2442.30 --> 2446.54] Give them a good understanding of what it means to serve this country in a way that -[2446.54 --> 2448.70] is pleasing to you. -[2448.70 --> 2454.94] Father, we ask for a good measure of your spirit in the lives of Bob, Willie, Emma, -[2454.94 --> 2461.30] Benita, Judy, everyone who is dealing with ongoing health struggles and treatments under -[2461.30 --> 2463.46] professionals' care. -[2463.46 --> 2467.18] Please provide what is needed in each of their lives. -[2467.18 --> 2474.14] Also give their caregivers the ability and strength to provide support and care. -[2474.14 --> 2477.38] We think of all our seniors here at Emmanuel. -[2477.38 --> 2481.94] Trust them as they deal with the different aspects of their lives as widows or widowers, -[2481.94 --> 2485.02] loneliness, daily struggles. -[2485.02 --> 2492.44] Be near to them all and provide friendship and support for everything they need. -[2492.44 --> 2497.76] As we are in the last days of summer vacations for many, protect them all in their travels -[2497.76 --> 2500.56] and bring them home safely. -[2500.56 --> 2506.26] Also be with all the university students who left this path to new grounds, new homes. -[2506.26 --> 2511.18] Grant them safety and care in their new ventures. -[2511.18 --> 2516.82] As we come to the beginning of a new school year, we ask for a blessing for parents, students, -[2516.82 --> 2523.44] teachers, support staff, bus drivers, everyone who is involved in the school system. -[2523.44 --> 2529.94] Grant everything and everyone what is needed and bless their efforts. -[2529.94 --> 2533.98] We ask for a blessing as well for the offerings of today. -[2533.98 --> 2539.30] Give each one of us a willingness to support the budget offering as well as the other offering -[2539.30 --> 2541.96] for new ground ministries. -[2541.96 --> 2548.00] Lord, we again ask to stir in members' hearts to offer their time and talents for the different -[2548.00 --> 2552.00] ministries that are looking for individuals to serve. -[2552.00 --> 2559.92] Let all of us use our talents which you have given us wisely and to our fullest extent. -[2559.92 --> 2566.52] Lord, be with all the youth leaders, youth and leaders who will be at the reactive event next weekend. -[2566.52 --> 2571.92] Bless these endeavors and let your name receive all the glory. -[2571.92 --> 2574.98] Lord, be near to us today as we worship. -[2574.98 --> 2577.68] Give us a good time of fellowship together. -[2577.68 --> 2581.68] We pray all this in Jesus' name. -[2581.68 --> 2582.68] Amen. -[2582.68 --> 2597.36] Noah are doing their thing. -[2597.36 --> 2600.12] Just right here. -[2600.12 --> 2601.12] Yep. -[2601.12 --> 2613.12] I just want to take a moment really and say, do you ever have one of those weeks where -[2613.12 --> 2615.12] like you just need Sunday to be good? -[2615.12 --> 2616.12] Right? -[2616.12 --> 2619.92] You've had one of those weeks where you're just like grinding through and nothing seems -[2619.92 --> 2623.96] to be working or adding up the way you want it and you're just praying that Lord meet me -[2623.96 --> 2624.96] on Sunday. -[2624.96 --> 2629.18] Well, I want to say that God's met me here on Sunday because of you and I think you guys -[2629.18 --> 2629.96] are singing great. -[2629.96 --> 2635.14] The team is doing really good work and so I'm just grateful to God to be here with you and -[2635.14 --> 2636.08] to participate in that. -[2636.20 --> 2637.54] I needed that after this week. -[2637.68 --> 2643.18] I hope at least one or two of you are experiencing the same and so thank you for letting me be part -[2643.18 --> 2646.54] of that and coming into this space with you together. -[2648.14 --> 2649.50] With that said, there's a chair. -[2649.50 --> 2659.18] So as many of you know and have been participating in with us this summer, we have been doing -[2659.18 --> 2665.22] a series that we've called Ask Anything that started with people submitting questions and -[2665.22 --> 2670.46] then throughout the summer, myself and Kevin and Josh have taken those questions on and -[2670.46 --> 2671.68] provided answers to them. -[2671.68 --> 2679.52] This is the final Sunday of that series and what we've done for today is kind of taken -[2679.52 --> 2686.20] four or five questions that didn't make it into the didn't make the cut for its own service -[2686.20 --> 2691.20] but ones that we can answer in three or four or maybe seven minutes. -[2691.20 --> 2692.80] And so we've piled a bunch together. -[2692.80 --> 2697.28] There's not necessarily any connection or order between them but we really did want -[2697.28 --> 2701.76] to try to make sure that we answered as many questions as we could that were submitted to -[2701.76 --> 2702.02] us. -[2702.12 --> 2707.04] And so Kevin is going to sort of facilitate that although there will be a little bit -[2707.04 --> 2710.64] of conversation back and forth and I'll ask him to answer a couple things. -[2712.34 --> 2718.68] And then so we are going to kind of finish up in this way and so hopefully your question -[2718.68 --> 2723.14] has been addressed that you submitted for the summer and I know that more questions have -[2723.14 --> 2729.84] popped up that is in part by design but also I know that some of you want further answers -[2729.84 --> 2734.56] and so I'm going to make myself available and I'm telling Kevin now that he's going to make -[2734.56 --> 2740.58] himself available and so if you have more questions or you want to talk or follow up let us know -[2740.58 --> 2745.82] and we'll have coffee and we'll sit down and we'll see what we can do in that regard. -[2745.82 --> 2748.58] I do also want to say thank you for participating this summer. -[2748.70 --> 2753.92] It's been a lot of fun for me and I hope it's been edifying for you as we've addressed some -[2753.92 --> 2755.48] of these questions together. -[2756.30 --> 2759.76] So Kevin, why don't you start us with a question or four? -[2759.98 --> 2760.12] Yeah. -[2760.34 --> 2762.82] So like we didn't test my microphone so thanks Matt. -[2762.90 --> 2763.40] That was quick. -[2763.56 --> 2763.96] We're good. -[2764.64 --> 2766.38] I come in hot all the time. -[2767.04 --> 2770.30] We're going to call these lightning rounds even though that's a bit of a misnomer because -[2770.30 --> 2774.18] these might not go like quick but we're going to we got five lightning rounds of questions. -[2774.18 --> 2776.14] Sometimes there's two or three questions per round. -[2776.72 --> 2778.50] So let's get started with number one. -[2778.60 --> 2779.38] It's a three-parter. -[2779.74 --> 2782.58] Pastor Chris, where did we get the Bible from? -[2782.70 --> 2783.58] When was it written? -[2785.16 --> 2785.44] Right. -[2785.58 --> 2790.76] So this, I guess this question has a long answer and a short answer. -[2790.88 --> 2792.18] I'll give you a medium answer. -[2792.52 --> 2792.74] Fair. -[2793.10 --> 2793.42] Excellent. -[2793.90 --> 2798.76] We could get into questions about text criticism or source criticism or redaction criticism. -[2798.76 --> 2801.86] We don't need to get into the weeds of all of that. -[2801.98 --> 2808.10] Suffice it to say that there's really good and strong arguments and reasons to agree with -[2808.10 --> 2813.50] or to hold what's generally considered to be the traditional understanding of authorship -[2813.50 --> 2814.70] and dating and the like. -[2815.64 --> 2820.16] But sort of starting from the beginning of the Bible, the Pentateuch, that's the first -[2820.16 --> 2821.66] five books of the Bible. -[2821.66 --> 2826.22] We generally know to have been authored by Moses. -[2826.44 --> 2831.18] Now there are obviously parts of the Pentateuch that Moses didn't write. -[2831.98 --> 2834.88] Like he probably didn't record his own death, for instance. -[2835.46 --> 2843.18] And so there are redactors or editors or people who have come along after that and added things -[2843.18 --> 2844.00] into the text. -[2844.00 --> 2850.82] But that period of history where Moses is alive and living is somewhere in the vicinity of -[2850.82 --> 2853.74] 1500 BC to 1100 BC. -[2853.98 --> 2856.76] And I know that that's a wide span of years. -[2857.82 --> 2862.14] But that's in part because in the last 30 years or so, there's been some archaeological -[2862.14 --> 2868.62] evidence that challenges when the exodus actually took place, which is a fascinating thing to -[2868.62 --> 2869.06] get into. -[2869.26 --> 2873.68] And if you're into Egyptology or archaeology, I can give you some resources on checking that -[2873.68 --> 2873.82] out. -[2873.86 --> 2877.48] But it's a really cool thing to think about and to learn about. -[2877.54 --> 2879.52] But generally in that time frame. -[2880.42 --> 2885.40] Moving forward from there, you get into the section of the Old Testament that's generally -[2885.40 --> 2886.88] referred to as the histories. -[2887.70 --> 2892.30] And those books could have been authored by their so-called titular authors, i.e. -[2892.32 --> 2896.30] Joshua could have wrote and Joshua, Ezra, Nehemiah could have been written by Ezra or -[2896.30 --> 2896.68] Nehemiah. -[2897.00 --> 2901.20] What's more likely, however, is that those were written by a court historian. -[2901.20 --> 2909.92] Somebody is part of the either temple system or the royal court system who's recording the -[2909.92 --> 2911.18] history of the people. -[2911.34 --> 2915.04] And that would have happened in sort of either a pre-exile time. -[2915.16 --> 2921.58] So before Israel was carried off by the Babylonians into exile in 586 BC or after. -[2921.58 --> 2928.66] And a good example of that, the books of Kings and Chronicles generally record the same sorts -[2928.66 --> 2934.14] of events, but they have a different sort of theological purpose behind why they are written. -[2934.52 --> 2937.50] And so Kings was likely written before the exile. -[2938.00 --> 2943.02] Chronicles was likely written after the exile as the people of Israel are trying to re-establish -[2943.02 --> 2944.42] their royal kingdom. -[2944.42 --> 2947.04] Then you get the wisdom literature. -[2948.48 --> 2951.58] Most of that was probably penned by David or by Solomon. -[2952.04 --> 2957.44] The Psalms, some very clearly identify being as of David or the sons of Korah, which is -[2957.44 --> 2959.42] a priestly class who were served in the temple. -[2960.72 --> 2963.16] And then you have a lot of books that don't name authors. -[2964.08 --> 2967.72] Ecclesiastes, for instance, Tradition says, was authored by Solomon. -[2967.72 --> 2971.74] Solomon, though there's reason to believe that that was written later than Solomon himself, -[2971.86 --> 2973.58] but in the tradition of Solomon. -[2974.44 --> 2979.60] And so the teacher, who is referred to in Ecclesiastes in Hebrew, is called Kohelet. -[2979.96 --> 2981.50] That's the Hebrew word for the teacher. -[2982.02 --> 2985.90] And so often people will say Ecclesiastes is authored by Kohelet, the teacher. -[2986.74 --> 2991.36] But that would be, again, in that sort of time either of the individual referred to. -[2991.44 --> 2994.00] So David obviously wrote the Psalms when he was alive. -[2994.00 --> 2998.36] And Isaiah likewise prophesied when he was alive. -[2998.80 --> 3005.74] The prophets are doing their ministry from the 8th century BC with Isaiah down to Malachi -[3005.74 --> 3008.54] around 300 BC. -[3009.52 --> 3012.60] And then the New Testament was written in the 1st century. -[3013.52 --> 3015.66] We don't need to get into further details on all of those. -[3016.14 --> 3016.58] That makes sense. -[3017.24 --> 3021.52] So knowing all of that, how did then all of those different authors, when those books -[3021.52 --> 3023.72] were all written throughout history, how did we get this? -[3023.72 --> 3029.16] How did we get all of those chapters, all of those authors, all of those books into the -[3029.16 --> 3030.96] Bible that we hold now in our hands? -[3031.28 --> 3031.38] Yeah. -[3033.20 --> 3037.34] Again, so I will say we could dig really deep into some of this stuff. -[3037.42 --> 3040.18] I'm a history nerd, particularly a church history nerd. -[3040.28 --> 3041.94] And so I geek out on this kind of thing. -[3041.94 --> 3045.16] I will give you a gloss history. -[3045.38 --> 3048.06] If you want to follow up, grab me and we can have more conversation. -[3048.80 --> 3054.70] First of all, I want to say sort of as a rule for understanding or a principle for understanding -[3054.70 --> 3060.68] that when we talk about the Bible, particularly the Bible that we hold up here, we're talking -[3060.68 --> 3062.36] about the canon of Scripture. -[3062.36 --> 3067.82] And so that refers to the collection of writings that we recognize as authoritative or as the -[3067.82 --> 3069.80] voice of God to his people. -[3070.60 --> 3074.18] Now, this canon was discerned. -[3075.04 --> 3081.00] The Old Testament or the Hebrew Bible, the canon was fixed and set by about the third century -[3081.00 --> 3081.52] B.C. -[3081.52 --> 3087.08] And then the New Testament canon, it is the letters and the Gospels in the New Testament, -[3087.80 --> 3093.72] was officially discerned by the Synod of Hippo in 393 A.D. -[3093.78 --> 3098.14] It was reconfirmed by the Ecumenical Council of Carthage in 397. -[3098.86 --> 3100.70] But I want to say two things here. -[3100.78 --> 3104.38] One, it's important that you hear me use the word discerned, right? -[3104.38 --> 3111.22] So the church has discerned which books are authoritative. -[3111.22 --> 3114.34] They haven't decided which books are authoritative. -[3114.44 --> 3118.20] And that's a very important distinction because it's not like a group of people with a will -[3118.20 --> 3122.36] to power, to use the Nietzschean phrase, came together and said, these particular letters -[3122.36 --> 3128.46] affirm our desire to be in control and to support the patriarchy or whatever language you want -[3128.46 --> 3128.78] to use. -[3129.46 --> 3131.56] And so we will elevate them. -[3132.12 --> 3138.62] Instead, they came together and prayerfully, with fasting, discerned which books spoke the -[3138.62 --> 3140.56] voice of God to his church. -[3141.22 --> 3149.10] And the official lists that were approved or recognized in the end of the fourth century -[3149.10 --> 3159.02] were as early as 140 A.D. in the response to Marcion's heresy at 180 A.D. with Irenaeus. -[3159.02 --> 3166.68] It's a recognition of books that have been long identified as authoritative. -[3167.68 --> 3168.84] In fact, F.F. -[3168.90 --> 3170.58] Bruce is a Bible scholar. -[3171.40 --> 3176.96] He says that when at last a church council listed the 27 books of the New Testament, it -[3176.96 --> 3182.58] did not confer upon them an authority which they already did not possess, but simply recorded -[3182.58 --> 3185.28] their previously established canonicity. -[3185.28 --> 3192.48] And so what that means is there are certain qualifiers for something being canonical. -[3192.48 --> 3197.02] There are certain checks that are boxes that have to be checked in order for people to -[3197.02 --> 3202.04] realize that this belongs as part of the revealed will of God. -[3202.14 --> 3207.00] And so for the New Testament letters, those rules were Catholicity. -[3207.00 --> 3211.26] Catholicity, which that Catholicity means like applicable to the whole church. -[3211.84 --> 3211.98] Yep. -[3212.06 --> 3214.52] And used around the known church at the time. -[3215.60 --> 3216.00] Antiquity. -[3216.34 --> 3217.06] How old it was. -[3218.64 --> 3219.04] Orthodoxy. -[3219.16 --> 3219.98] How correct it was. -[3220.76 --> 3222.88] Well, how consistent it was with what we knew to be true. -[3222.98 --> 3223.10] Yeah. -[3223.82 --> 3226.62] Especially in the doctrines of Christ as a test case. -[3226.88 --> 3228.42] And apostolicity. -[3228.74 --> 3230.40] Relating to the apostles. -[3230.40 --> 3231.16] Very good. -[3231.86 --> 3237.48] And so in Acts 2, 42, for instance, it says that the church in Jerusalem continues the teaching -[3237.48 --> 3238.30] of the apostles. -[3238.82 --> 3238.96] Right? -[3239.00 --> 3243.06] So it's not necessarily the case that the apostles wrote all of those books. -[3243.12 --> 3245.12] So for the vast majority of them, that is the case. -[3245.22 --> 3248.30] But it's the teaching of the apostles that continues. -[3249.12 --> 3254.64] Now, just really quickly, the Bible that you hold in your hands as such, formatted in the -[3254.64 --> 3257.66] way that it is, has its own history. -[3258.28 --> 3258.46] Right? -[3258.50 --> 3263.66] And so the Pentateuch and the histories, we referred to those earlier, they were divided -[3263.66 --> 3266.44] out into chapters, loosely termed. -[3267.36 --> 3270.80] Really, it was meant large sections for memorization. -[3271.22 --> 3272.28] But that wasn't standardized. -[3272.28 --> 3274.90] But that had already happened by the 6th century BC. -[3275.68 --> 3281.98] The prophets, continuing in the Old Testament, were divided out into, again, chapters, but for -[3281.98 --> 3286.72] memorization by 165 BC, and also not standardized. -[3287.68 --> 3289.74] In the New Testament, same thing. -[3290.34 --> 3296.40] The chapter divisions, or some divisions, appear to be recorded in the publication industry -[3296.40 --> 3298.36] around 250 BC. -[3298.56 --> 3303.34] But these, in the New Testament, aren't standardized until the 3rd century AD. -[3303.78 --> 3305.64] Sorry, I think I said BC there when I meant AD. -[3306.42 --> 3306.98] We're tracking. -[3306.98 --> 3312.84] And then the verse markings in the Old Testament were standardized around 900 AD. -[3313.10 --> 3317.58] And then the verse markings in the New Testament, which we have and are generally the same. -[3317.64 --> 3320.54] You notice that when you pick up translations of the Bible, it doesn't really matter which -[3320.54 --> 3320.72] one. -[3320.78 --> 3322.82] The verses are generally the same. -[3323.16 --> 3325.42] That was standardized around the 16th century. -[3326.16 --> 3327.66] And that's connected to two things. -[3327.76 --> 3332.98] One, connected to publication of the King James Bible, but also connected to the reinvigoration -[3332.98 --> 3337.80] of the study of the New Testament that's happening at that time because of the Reformation. -[3338.50 --> 3344.16] And you have scholars and Bible theologians from all over the place debating which verses -[3344.16 --> 3346.00] of their correct interpretation of what. -[3346.08 --> 3350.48] And so they need to be able to say, well, I'm talking about Galatians 3.23, for instance, -[3350.86 --> 3351.80] and that all be the same. -[3352.30 --> 3356.76] And so that standardization happens there because these conversations are happening. -[3356.76 --> 3362.60] And as well, the printing press is standardizing the way things are published, too. -[3363.58 --> 3367.22] So the Bible's been written over centuries by different authors. -[3368.88 --> 3371.32] After Christ, it's standardized. -[3371.66 --> 3372.18] It's put together. -[3372.30 --> 3372.86] It's discerned. -[3372.92 --> 3374.44] It's canonized. -[3374.68 --> 3375.18] Canonized. -[3375.24 --> 3375.72] That's the word. -[3376.00 --> 3376.52] And then... -[3376.52 --> 3377.64] It's recognized as canon. -[3379.32 --> 3380.30] Is it trustworthy? -[3381.26 --> 3382.58] Is the Bible trustworthy? -[3382.58 --> 3388.62] Can we take all of that history that you've just listed, and can we trust that this is the word of God? -[3388.80 --> 3389.14] Absolutely. -[3390.50 --> 3392.48] And so this is a really important question. -[3393.40 --> 3397.06] And to answer it, I want to break it actually into two categories. -[3397.58 --> 3400.42] And so I want to answer the question of, one, is the Bible reliable? -[3401.20 --> 3403.04] And then two, is the Bible trustworthy? -[3404.66 --> 3407.26] The question of, is the Bible reliable, is important. -[3407.26 --> 3414.90] Because you will have people and certain critical scholars who will look at that history of translation, -[3415.36 --> 3421.70] who will look at that history and say it's impossible that the Bible could accurately reflect what the original authors wrote, -[3421.80 --> 3424.00] or there's corruptions all over the place. -[3425.42 --> 3427.46] And so that's really a question of reliability. -[3427.46 --> 3441.94] And so is what we have here a reliable representation or transmission of what the original authors or redactors had intended? -[3443.08 --> 3447.70] And I think the evidence for that is overwhelmingly yes. -[3447.70 --> 3458.10] And so really quickly, the way that this source criticism works or text history, -[3458.18 --> 3459.52] and I know I said we wouldn't get into that, -[3459.82 --> 3463.76] but it looks at the old translations and how many of them we have, -[3464.18 --> 3466.40] and then compares them one to the other. -[3466.40 --> 3473.20] And so for the New Testament, we have over 25,000 early manuscripts. -[3473.86 --> 3476.86] 5,000 of them, over 5,000 of them, are Greek, -[3477.18 --> 3481.04] and from the first few centuries after Christ. -[3481.72 --> 3483.98] We have over 10,000, which are Latin, -[3484.42 --> 3489.04] and then over 10,000 others, which are in different languages as translations. -[3489.04 --> 3496.98] And so that is a huge amount of source material to be able to work back and discern the reliability. -[3497.56 --> 3502.80] By way of comparison, some of you have heard or read Homer's Iliad. -[3503.74 --> 3511.46] Homer's Iliad was written around the 7th or 8th century B.C., or sometime in that span. -[3511.84 --> 3517.32] It's speculated that it was a poem that was transmitted orally for many centuries before that. -[3517.32 --> 3523.70] But for Homer's Iliad, we currently have only 643 manuscripts. -[3525.10 --> 3531.10] And the earliest full manuscript that we have for Homer's Iliad is from the 13th century A.D. -[3531.62 --> 3534.88] This is almost 2,000 years removed from the source text. -[3535.74 --> 3538.92] When it comes to the New Testament, we have over 25,000, -[3539.22 --> 3543.80] and some of them are only less than 100 years removed from the source text. -[3543.80 --> 3549.58] And so Daniel Wallace, who's a New Testament scholar and into this sort of text criticism thing, -[3549.98 --> 3554.26] he says that based on the sheer volume of manuscripts that we have, -[3554.62 --> 3562.58] we can be sure, certain, that we have at least 99.8% accuracy to the autograph, -[3562.90 --> 3565.66] to what's the first author's writing. -[3565.66 --> 3571.88] And then he goes on to say where we do see that 0.2% of discrepancy, it's in minor areas. -[3572.16 --> 3576.24] It's in things not affecting one iota of doctrine for the church. -[3576.84 --> 3582.34] But it's in whether or not a scribe, you know, dotted their I or someplace like that. -[3583.36 --> 3590.18] And so overwhelmingly, right, the evidence says that the New Testament is reliable. -[3590.18 --> 3594.64] Whether or not it's trustworthy is a different question, -[3595.08 --> 3598.08] and it's a really important question. -[3599.04 --> 3605.64] Now, the Scriptures, as trustworthy, requires something else to be true. -[3606.44 --> 3607.98] Namely, it requires the Holy Spirit. -[3609.04 --> 3612.80] And so the Heidelberg Catechism defines faith, in part, -[3612.80 --> 3618.08] as a wholehearted trust which the Holy Spirit creates in me by the gospel. -[3618.08 --> 3627.04] The trustworthiness of the Bible is dependent upon the Holy Spirit revealing and opening it up -[3627.04 --> 3633.96] for your heart and for your life and for the Holy Spirit applying Scripture to transform you, right? -[3634.12 --> 3636.52] When God speaks, things happen. -[3636.66 --> 3637.74] Think of the creation story. -[3637.84 --> 3640.62] God said, let there be light, and there was light. -[3641.68 --> 3643.78] That was a good one for you. -[3643.78 --> 3647.34] When God speaks, things happen, right? -[3647.42 --> 3652.50] Isaiah 55, God says that His Word goes out and will not return to Him without accomplishing -[3652.50 --> 3653.80] that for which He sent it. -[3654.68 --> 3656.30] The Holy Spirit does that work. -[3657.04 --> 3661.16] Now, I also want to be really clear, because someone who doesn't believe in the trustworthiness -[3661.16 --> 3663.48] of the Scriptures or the reliability of the Scriptures will say, -[3663.82 --> 3666.20] well, that's a circular argument, right? -[3666.20 --> 3670.38] You're saying that the Bible is trustworthy because the Bible says it's trustworthy. -[3672.42 --> 3676.96] And I want to respond and say, well, no, it's not a circular argument or it's not a cop-out -[3676.96 --> 3680.06] if the Holy Spirit is real, right? -[3680.08 --> 3685.04] If the Holy Spirit genuinely has agency in our lives in applying the gift of faith, -[3685.20 --> 3689.28] then it's not a cop-out because the Holy Spirit is what makes the difference. -[3689.28 --> 3695.60] And so the Bible is not only reliable, but it is ultimately trustworthy. -[3696.60 --> 3701.36] But for it to be trustworthy, we need to allow the Holy Spirit to speak and to move in our hearts. -[3703.56 --> 3705.94] And so, real quick takeaway. -[3707.70 --> 3713.04] The Bible is 66 books authored by 40 different people, -[3713.04 --> 3716.64] the writing of which spans 1,500 years, -[3716.96 --> 3719.28] takes place over three different continents, -[3719.64 --> 3722.90] but it is one story. -[3724.22 --> 3725.34] By way of comparison, -[3726.34 --> 3728.68] not only am I a church history and a Bible nerd, -[3728.76 --> 3730.52] I'm also a Marvel movie nerd. -[3731.62 --> 3734.50] And so the MCU, the Marvel Cinematic Universe, -[3734.62 --> 3736.92] is 24 movies, three TV shows, -[3737.36 --> 3739.66] some shorts in there as well, -[3739.66 --> 3741.18] over 13 years, -[3741.30 --> 3743.38] starting in 2008 with Iron Man 1, -[3743.58 --> 3746.56] but it tells one story. -[3748.26 --> 3751.74] Saw the penultimate climax of that in Endgame, -[3751.88 --> 3754.08] and now we're into the next phase. -[3754.94 --> 3756.54] The Bible does the same thing. -[3757.54 --> 3758.80] It tells one story, -[3759.04 --> 3762.16] and that story is revealing Jesus Christ. -[3763.02 --> 3764.58] Genesis is about Jesus, -[3764.80 --> 3766.38] Exodus is about Jesus, -[3767.26 --> 3768.84] Isaiah is about Jesus, -[3768.84 --> 3770.64] Jeremiah is about Jesus, -[3770.84 --> 3774.10] Amos, Joel, and Malachi are all about Jesus. -[3775.14 --> 3776.52] The Gideon Bibles, -[3777.26 --> 3780.12] which for generations have been placed in hotel rooms -[3780.12 --> 3781.62] around North America and the world, -[3781.92 --> 3783.32] has a little paragraph in the beginning -[3783.32 --> 3784.88] that describes the Bible saying, -[3785.12 --> 3786.76] Christ is its grand subject, -[3787.34 --> 3788.88] our good is its design, -[3789.10 --> 3791.96] and the glory of God is its end. -[3793.32 --> 3794.82] The Bible is reliable, -[3795.12 --> 3796.04] and it is trustworthy. -[3796.04 --> 3799.88] It is the voice of God for our faith, -[3800.50 --> 3802.30] and you can hang your hat on that. -[3803.26 --> 3803.70] Amen. -[3804.64 --> 3807.32] So, that's lightning round one. -[3808.00 --> 3809.88] More like a long rolling thunder. -[3809.98 --> 3810.92] We'll call them thunder rounds. -[3811.24 --> 3812.40] That's thunder round one, -[3812.78 --> 3814.08] but I think we all need to stand up for a second. -[3814.16 --> 3814.74] Everybody stand up. -[3815.04 --> 3815.98] Up, quick, quick, quick. -[3816.34 --> 3816.66] Stretch. -[3816.92 --> 3817.24] The back. -[3817.34 --> 3817.54] Turn. -[3817.76 --> 3818.26] This turn. -[3818.50 --> 3818.70] Up. -[3819.18 --> 3819.78] This way. -[3820.00 --> 3820.54] Okay, sit down. -[3821.34 --> 3822.30] Thunder round two. -[3822.30 --> 3825.78] Moving on. -[3827.58 --> 3829.38] What do you do with your anger -[3829.38 --> 3831.40] if you are angry with God -[3831.40 --> 3833.38] or if you are angry at God? -[3834.42 --> 3835.66] What do you do with your anger? -[3836.02 --> 3836.14] Yeah. -[3837.60 --> 3838.56] And so, again, -[3838.64 --> 3842.02] I think this is a really important question, -[3842.48 --> 3844.12] and I think it's important -[3844.12 --> 3848.02] because sometimes I think we've been, -[3848.30 --> 3848.92] as Christians, -[3849.04 --> 3850.50] we've been misled on this, -[3850.50 --> 3852.32] and so let me start by simply saying -[3852.32 --> 3855.12] that Ephesians 4, verse 26 says, -[3855.52 --> 3857.24] in your anger do not sin. -[3859.16 --> 3859.82] And so, hear that. -[3859.98 --> 3861.56] In your anger do not sin. -[3862.72 --> 3864.90] So often we are told -[3864.90 --> 3867.74] that being angry is itself a sin. -[3869.02 --> 3870.28] What the Scriptures are saying -[3870.28 --> 3872.98] is that what you do with your anger, -[3873.44 --> 3876.16] how you respond in your anger, -[3876.38 --> 3878.78] is where sin may creep in. -[3878.78 --> 3881.88] And so the real question is, -[3882.44 --> 3885.36] how do we be angry at God -[3885.36 --> 3886.82] in the right way? -[3888.44 --> 3889.28] Now, let me, again, -[3889.44 --> 3890.76] be really clear here -[3890.76 --> 3893.46] because some of us can take that -[3893.46 --> 3896.82] and have license to abuse that reality, -[3897.02 --> 3898.28] but look at the Scriptures. -[3899.40 --> 3899.48] Right? -[3899.58 --> 3903.10] The psalmists are excellent examples at this. -[3903.52 --> 3903.66] Right? -[3903.66 --> 3905.90] You can read the book of Psalms -[3905.90 --> 3908.54] and find a number of different people -[3908.54 --> 3909.12] and authors -[3909.12 --> 3911.34] who express their anger -[3911.34 --> 3913.30] at what's going on around them, -[3913.36 --> 3915.04] but also their anger at God. -[3916.06 --> 3916.18] Right? -[3916.28 --> 3917.64] Psalm 13, -[3917.78 --> 3919.04] how long, O Lord, -[3919.10 --> 3920.16] will you forget me forever? -[3921.50 --> 3921.68] Right? -[3921.72 --> 3924.88] That's not a passive experience of God. -[3924.96 --> 3927.38] That's not a calm engagement -[3927.38 --> 3929.74] with the reality of God's presence -[3929.74 --> 3931.54] or his lack of experience in that. -[3931.54 --> 3932.56] My God, my God, -[3932.62 --> 3934.16] why have you forsaken me? -[3934.64 --> 3935.28] Psalm 22. -[3936.40 --> 3936.56] Right? -[3936.58 --> 3937.56] Psalm 42, right? -[3937.78 --> 3939.42] Deep cries out to deep. -[3939.76 --> 3939.90] Right? -[3939.92 --> 3941.16] Your waves and your breakers -[3941.16 --> 3941.92] are washing over me. -[3942.06 --> 3942.88] These are people -[3942.88 --> 3945.28] who are genuinely experiencing anger -[3945.28 --> 3946.64] at what's going on -[3946.64 --> 3948.54] and anger at God. -[3948.64 --> 3950.62] And in case you're not clear on this, -[3950.76 --> 3953.16] Job 7, verse 11, -[3953.30 --> 3953.76] Job says, -[3954.12 --> 3956.28] therefore I will not keep silent. -[3956.42 --> 3957.68] I will speak out -[3957.68 --> 3960.12] in the anguish of my spirit. -[3960.24 --> 3961.36] I will complain -[3961.36 --> 3964.04] in the bitterness of my soul. -[3967.20 --> 3970.04] Job complains to God. -[3970.38 --> 3971.90] He gets angry at God. -[3971.96 --> 3972.88] Or another one -[3972.88 --> 3975.06] from Jeremiah. -[3975.90 --> 3977.42] I'm going to read a couple verses here. -[3977.50 --> 3978.40] Jeremiah 15. -[3979.40 --> 3980.94] Jeremiah is crying out, -[3981.26 --> 3981.44] saying, -[3981.52 --> 3982.80] Lord, you understand. -[3983.18 --> 3984.60] Remember me and care for me. -[3984.82 --> 3986.46] Avenge me on my prosecutors. -[3986.46 --> 3988.48] You are long-suffering. -[3988.56 --> 3989.60] Do not take me away. -[3989.90 --> 3991.40] Think of how I suffer reproach -[3991.40 --> 3992.22] for your sake. -[3992.84 --> 3993.82] When your words came, -[3993.90 --> 3994.44] I ate them. -[3994.74 --> 3995.44] They were my joy -[3995.44 --> 3996.20] and my heart's delight. -[3996.44 --> 3997.62] For I bear your name, -[3997.76 --> 3998.56] Lord God Almighty. -[3999.10 --> 4000.82] I never sat in the company -[4000.82 --> 4001.52] of revelers, -[4001.60 --> 4002.82] never made merry with them. -[4003.02 --> 4003.94] I sat alone -[4003.94 --> 4005.54] because your hand was on me. -[4005.90 --> 4006.84] You had filled me -[4006.84 --> 4007.76] with indignation. -[4008.04 --> 4008.94] And then hear this, right? -[4008.98 --> 4009.84] This is Jeremiah saying, -[4010.08 --> 4011.16] I've done all things right. -[4011.16 --> 4015.44] Why is my pain unending -[4015.44 --> 4017.74] and my wound grievous -[4017.74 --> 4018.80] and incurable? -[4018.96 --> 4019.96] And here's what he says to God. -[4020.30 --> 4021.56] You are to me -[4021.56 --> 4023.84] like a deceptive brook, -[4024.62 --> 4026.90] a spring that fails. -[4029.70 --> 4030.86] That's anger -[4030.86 --> 4033.38] at his experience of God. -[4034.62 --> 4035.14] Right? -[4035.18 --> 4036.66] The example here, -[4037.04 --> 4038.24] the right way to deal -[4038.24 --> 4039.66] with your anger at God -[4039.66 --> 4042.36] is to bring it to God. -[4043.36 --> 4044.54] It's to come to him -[4044.54 --> 4045.76] with the genuineness -[4045.76 --> 4046.80] and the authenticness -[4046.80 --> 4048.56] of your emotions. -[4049.52 --> 4050.78] And we can do that -[4050.78 --> 4052.90] precisely because of who God is. -[4053.40 --> 4054.32] We can do that -[4054.32 --> 4056.62] clinging to the sovereignty -[4056.62 --> 4057.78] of God -[4057.78 --> 4059.66] and his covenant promises, -[4060.22 --> 4062.04] his covenant identity. -[4063.86 --> 4064.90] Earlier, actually, -[4065.02 --> 4066.66] when Frank was praying, -[4066.66 --> 4068.64] he prayed through Psalm 29 -[4068.64 --> 4069.46] and he said that -[4069.46 --> 4071.28] the Lord rules over the flood, -[4071.38 --> 4074.06] the Lord sits enthroned forever. -[4074.94 --> 4076.68] That's the sovereignty of God. -[4077.70 --> 4077.86] Right? -[4077.90 --> 4079.24] That's the rule of God -[4079.24 --> 4080.30] over all creation. -[4080.80 --> 4082.24] The catechism says that -[4082.24 --> 4084.86] not a hair can fall from my head -[4084.86 --> 4087.12] without the will of my Father in heaven. -[4087.86 --> 4089.06] And when we really believe -[4089.06 --> 4090.34] that that's who God is, -[4090.46 --> 4091.80] even when we are angry, -[4092.06 --> 4092.92] we will come to him. -[4092.92 --> 4095.62] And we will cling to -[4095.62 --> 4097.72] the covenant promises of God. -[4097.78 --> 4098.42] We will cling to -[4098.42 --> 4100.86] the covenant identity of God. -[4101.62 --> 4103.10] Again, covenant identity. -[4103.48 --> 4105.60] Psalm 46 is another great place to go. -[4105.70 --> 4105.80] Right? -[4105.86 --> 4106.34] We read that -[4106.34 --> 4108.86] God is our refuge and strength, -[4108.96 --> 4111.18] an ever-present help in trouble. -[4111.76 --> 4114.30] This is the covenant identity of God. -[4114.36 --> 4115.80] This is the ever-present -[4115.80 --> 4117.80] refuge and strength. -[4117.90 --> 4119.38] And in Exodus 34, -[4119.38 --> 4120.98] Moses sees God -[4120.98 --> 4121.68] and he knows that -[4121.68 --> 4122.68] it's the Lord, the Lord, -[4122.74 --> 4124.36] the compassionate and gracious God, -[4124.48 --> 4125.26] slow to anger, -[4125.40 --> 4126.84] abounding in love and faithfulness, -[4127.24 --> 4128.58] maintaining love to thousands, -[4128.84 --> 4130.18] and forgiving wickedness -[4130.18 --> 4131.24] and rebellion and sin. -[4131.48 --> 4133.32] This is our God. -[4134.92 --> 4135.86] But what do we do -[4135.86 --> 4137.62] when it doesn't feel that way? -[4139.12 --> 4140.36] Or when God doesn't feel -[4140.36 --> 4142.02] like he's slow to anger -[4142.02 --> 4142.98] or abounding in love? -[4143.00 --> 4144.24] When we can experience that, -[4144.28 --> 4144.92] when our experience -[4144.92 --> 4146.52] is more like Psalm 13. -[4146.98 --> 4147.12] Right? -[4147.18 --> 4148.08] How long, O Lord, -[4148.26 --> 4149.26] will you forget me forever? -[4149.38 --> 4153.68] Even when we don't feel it, -[4154.36 --> 4155.46] the truth is, -[4155.54 --> 4158.38] God is still that Psalm 46, -[4158.72 --> 4160.00] Isaiah 34, -[4160.86 --> 4162.12] Psalm 29, -[4162.72 --> 4163.10] God. -[4163.82 --> 4165.00] And so in our anger, -[4165.22 --> 4166.58] we must cling to -[4166.58 --> 4169.08] the covenant identity -[4169.08 --> 4170.66] of who God is. -[4172.64 --> 4173.48] But what about you? -[4173.90 --> 4175.00] You teach the catechism. -[4175.44 --> 4176.34] Does that have anything -[4176.34 --> 4177.24] to say about this? -[4177.24 --> 4178.22] He asks, -[4178.38 --> 4179.22] throwing a softball, -[4179.30 --> 4180.00] but really a test -[4180.00 --> 4180.84] to see if you can hit it -[4180.84 --> 4181.20] out of the park -[4181.20 --> 4182.22] and show off how awesome you are? -[4182.22 --> 4183.34] Well, technically, -[4183.82 --> 4185.38] Nick Coline teaches the catechism. -[4185.52 --> 4185.88] So Nick, -[4186.68 --> 4187.00] what's, -[4187.06 --> 4187.18] no, -[4187.24 --> 4187.90] he's saying, -[4187.98 --> 4188.22] no, go. -[4188.88 --> 4190.72] Lord's Day 9, -[4191.16 --> 4192.22] question and answer 26, -[4192.88 --> 4193.98] talking about clinging -[4193.98 --> 4194.80] to the identity, -[4194.94 --> 4196.16] the covenantal identity -[4196.16 --> 4196.82] of God. -[4197.22 --> 4198.12] Lord's Day 9, -[4198.52 --> 4199.26] question and answer 26, -[4199.26 --> 4199.94] says, -[4200.08 --> 4201.02] I trust God, -[4201.62 --> 4202.38] so we, -[4202.58 --> 4203.96] I trust God so much -[4203.96 --> 4205.30] that I do not doubt -[4205.30 --> 4206.02] he will provide -[4206.02 --> 4206.78] whatever I need -[4206.78 --> 4207.70] for body and soul -[4207.70 --> 4209.08] and will turn my good -[4209.08 --> 4209.84] whatever adversity -[4209.84 --> 4210.92] he sends upon me -[4210.92 --> 4211.76] in this sad world. -[4212.18 --> 4213.72] God is able to do this -[4213.72 --> 4215.80] because he is almighty God -[4215.80 --> 4218.06] and he desires to do this -[4218.06 --> 4219.80] because he is a faithful father. -[4221.18 --> 4222.54] So in the midst of our anger, -[4222.76 --> 4224.26] we need to remember -[4224.26 --> 4226.46] and cling to this identity of God. -[4226.46 --> 4228.24] Now, all of that said, -[4228.68 --> 4230.72] we can undergird this conversation -[4230.72 --> 4232.12] with the theological truths -[4232.12 --> 4232.60] from scripture -[4232.60 --> 4233.50] that you just mentioned, -[4233.56 --> 4235.02] the catechism that I just read. -[4237.02 --> 4237.86] Undergirding that, -[4237.98 --> 4238.14] though, -[4238.20 --> 4239.12] with that theology, -[4239.98 --> 4241.00] it's still hard -[4241.00 --> 4241.56] when we're angry -[4241.56 --> 4242.36] and there's probably people -[4242.36 --> 4243.34] sitting out here right now -[4243.34 --> 4244.44] that are angry at God. -[4244.54 --> 4245.82] So while that is all true -[4245.82 --> 4247.52] and we need to have that posture -[4247.52 --> 4248.92] or that stance, -[4249.80 --> 4251.52] it still sometimes seems -[4251.52 --> 4252.28] like it isn't true. -[4252.48 --> 4253.70] So then what do we do then? -[4254.00 --> 4254.84] What do we do, -[4254.84 --> 4256.56] how would you sum up -[4256.56 --> 4257.52] the catechism of the scriptures -[4257.52 --> 4258.28] to people who are angry -[4258.28 --> 4259.04] with God right now? -[4259.32 --> 4259.44] Yeah. -[4262.74 --> 4263.14] So, -[4264.34 --> 4267.34] the truth, -[4267.46 --> 4268.16] the reality is -[4268.16 --> 4270.24] that if we want a God -[4270.24 --> 4271.22] who's big enough -[4271.22 --> 4272.68] to be angry at -[4272.68 --> 4273.96] when things go wrong, -[4275.14 --> 4276.10] that same God -[4276.10 --> 4277.54] will also be big enough -[4277.54 --> 4278.38] to have reasons -[4278.38 --> 4280.16] that we can't understand. -[4280.16 --> 4282.72] And so if you want -[4282.72 --> 4283.38] to be angry, -[4284.14 --> 4284.80] be angry, -[4285.20 --> 4286.00] please, -[4286.10 --> 4286.98] and express that, -[4287.14 --> 4287.28] right? -[4287.30 --> 4288.12] The scriptures give us -[4288.12 --> 4289.36] license and voice -[4289.36 --> 4290.28] to express that. -[4292.76 --> 4293.56] But know -[4293.56 --> 4295.44] that God has his reasons -[4295.44 --> 4296.26] and his purposes -[4296.26 --> 4297.06] and they may be -[4297.06 --> 4298.38] beyond our understanding. -[4298.48 --> 4299.80] My ways are not your ways. -[4299.92 --> 4300.72] My thoughts are not -[4300.72 --> 4301.28] your thoughts. -[4302.22 --> 4303.24] And I don't offer that -[4303.24 --> 4303.92] as a cop-out -[4303.92 --> 4306.68] because I think -[4306.68 --> 4307.42] the reality -[4307.42 --> 4309.32] of that experience -[4309.32 --> 4310.54] has to be lived -[4310.54 --> 4311.60] in community -[4311.60 --> 4314.26] and that we are -[4314.26 --> 4315.54] together in this. -[4315.66 --> 4317.00] I've referenced -[4317.00 --> 4317.98] previously -[4317.98 --> 4319.34] a quote from -[4319.34 --> 4320.26] Dietrich Bonhoeffer -[4320.26 --> 4320.70] who says, -[4320.92 --> 4322.18] the Christ in the heart -[4322.18 --> 4322.64] of another -[4322.64 --> 4323.42] is stronger than -[4323.42 --> 4325.44] the Christ in my own heart. -[4325.90 --> 4326.58] And what that means -[4326.58 --> 4327.48] is I need people -[4327.48 --> 4328.58] to speak the truths -[4328.58 --> 4329.14] of God -[4329.14 --> 4330.10] and his sovereign power -[4330.10 --> 4331.10] and his covenant identity -[4331.10 --> 4332.16] into my life -[4332.16 --> 4334.76] when I don't feel it. -[4335.40 --> 4336.10] I know we'll come back -[4336.10 --> 4336.62] to this theme -[4336.62 --> 4337.96] in a different question. -[4341.08 --> 4342.14] But suffering -[4342.14 --> 4343.80] and struggling, -[4344.68 --> 4344.82] right, -[4344.90 --> 4345.24] circumstances -[4345.24 --> 4346.46] that make us angry -[4346.46 --> 4349.58] are only meaningful -[4349.58 --> 4351.44] if God is sovereign -[4351.44 --> 4352.02] over them. -[4353.24 --> 4354.64] If God isn't sovereign -[4354.64 --> 4355.56] and doesn't know -[4355.56 --> 4356.12] what's coming -[4356.12 --> 4356.70] or happening, -[4357.18 --> 4358.06] that means he's not -[4358.06 --> 4359.70] working those things -[4359.70 --> 4360.58] to his end. -[4361.10 --> 4361.70] For our good -[4361.70 --> 4362.62] and his glory. -[4363.36 --> 4364.88] Only when he is sovereign -[4364.88 --> 4366.20] can we find meaning -[4366.20 --> 4367.30] and purpose -[4367.30 --> 4368.34] in them. -[4369.36 --> 4369.62] Awesome. -[4370.08 --> 4371.12] So take that little note -[4371.12 --> 4371.62] on community, -[4371.78 --> 4372.42] file that away, -[4372.56 --> 4373.18] back of the head. -[4373.26 --> 4373.74] We're coming back -[4373.74 --> 4374.36] to that soon -[4374.36 --> 4374.86] in one of these -[4374.86 --> 4375.60] other Thunder Rounds. -[4376.10 --> 4376.82] But there's no break. -[4376.88 --> 4377.28] We're moving to -[4377.28 --> 4377.96] Thunder Round 3. -[4378.52 --> 4379.96] Thunder Round 3 says -[4379.96 --> 4381.40] or asks this question. -[4382.24 --> 4383.16] Just simply, -[4384.00 --> 4384.90] how is Christianity -[4384.90 --> 4385.64] different -[4385.64 --> 4387.12] than other world religions? -[4387.12 --> 4389.38] Yeah, -[4389.52 --> 4390.86] and so keeping -[4390.86 --> 4392.06] this simple -[4392.06 --> 4392.56] without doing -[4392.56 --> 4393.94] comparative religion -[4393.94 --> 4394.50] up here, -[4394.74 --> 4395.68] I'm going to borrow -[4395.68 --> 4396.44] a distinction -[4396.44 --> 4398.62] that Tim Keller makes -[4398.62 --> 4400.44] and he talks about -[4400.44 --> 4401.22] religion, -[4401.86 --> 4402.56] irreligion, -[4402.90 --> 4403.58] and the gospel. -[4404.72 --> 4405.66] And so religion, -[4406.18 --> 4407.08] sort of fundamentally -[4407.08 --> 4407.74] defined, -[4407.90 --> 4409.06] is the idea of -[4409.06 --> 4410.16] do this -[4410.16 --> 4411.22] and God -[4411.22 --> 4412.08] or the divine -[4412.08 --> 4414.00] or whatever reward -[4414.00 --> 4415.56] will be given to you. -[4415.56 --> 4416.68] And so you've got to -[4416.68 --> 4417.66] work your way up -[4417.66 --> 4418.40] and earn -[4418.40 --> 4420.40] your gift -[4420.40 --> 4421.78] from the God -[4421.78 --> 4423.46] or earn your way -[4423.46 --> 4424.46] into nirvana -[4424.46 --> 4425.10] or whatever -[4425.10 --> 4427.74] end goal -[4427.74 --> 4429.28] is brought there. -[4429.40 --> 4429.76] And when you say -[4429.76 --> 4430.14] religion, -[4430.24 --> 4430.84] we're talking like -[4430.84 --> 4431.84] that's world religion -[4431.84 --> 4432.62] across the board. -[4432.74 --> 4432.82] Yeah, -[4432.92 --> 4433.38] religion, -[4434.02 --> 4435.42] the religious identity. -[4436.98 --> 4437.58] Irreligion -[4437.58 --> 4438.80] is sort of the opposite, -[4439.36 --> 4439.50] right? -[4439.56 --> 4441.00] Irreligion is indifference -[4441.00 --> 4442.26] or hostility to religion -[4442.26 --> 4443.38] or it's a lack -[4443.38 --> 4444.92] of religious belief. -[4444.92 --> 4447.22] And so there are some -[4447.22 --> 4448.08] who might say, -[4448.18 --> 4448.64] for instance, -[4448.76 --> 4450.84] in the modern secular West -[4450.84 --> 4452.12] we are skewing more -[4452.12 --> 4452.82] irreligious -[4452.82 --> 4453.80] than we are religious, -[4453.92 --> 4455.22] although that can also be -[4455.22 --> 4456.02] up for debate. -[4457.54 --> 4459.08] And then you have gospel. -[4460.20 --> 4460.72] And Christianity, -[4461.20 --> 4461.68] of course, -[4461.78 --> 4463.00] is gospel -[4463.00 --> 4463.80] because Christianity -[4463.80 --> 4465.32] is not about -[4465.32 --> 4465.92] do this -[4465.92 --> 4467.34] and you will get to God. -[4467.50 --> 4468.24] Christianity, rather, -[4468.32 --> 4470.52] is how God came to us, -[4471.34 --> 4471.56] right? -[4471.62 --> 4473.14] Christianity is Jesus -[4473.14 --> 4473.96] living the life -[4473.96 --> 4474.54] I should have lived -[4474.54 --> 4475.30] and dying the death -[4475.30 --> 4475.92] that I deserved. -[4476.06 --> 4477.94] Christianity is God -[4477.94 --> 4479.68] doing what I could not -[4479.68 --> 4481.30] out of his great love -[4481.30 --> 4482.36] for us. -[4482.88 --> 4483.78] And so God, -[4484.06 --> 4484.98] quite literally, -[4485.26 --> 4486.16] writes himself -[4486.16 --> 4487.58] into the story -[4487.58 --> 4490.86] that he has created -[4490.86 --> 4491.50] and has written. -[4491.76 --> 4492.12] There's actually -[4492.12 --> 4493.26] a great illustration -[4493.26 --> 4494.92] for this point. -[4496.24 --> 4497.30] Dorothy Sayers. -[4497.70 --> 4498.40] Dorothy Sayers -[4498.40 --> 4499.36] was born in the late -[4499.36 --> 4500.20] 19th century -[4500.20 --> 4500.96] and she wrote -[4500.96 --> 4502.44] in the early 20th century. -[4502.44 --> 4503.90] She was one of the first -[4503.90 --> 4505.22] women to study -[4505.22 --> 4506.58] at Oxford in England -[4506.58 --> 4508.16] and she was the writer -[4508.16 --> 4509.74] of detective fiction. -[4510.16 --> 4510.86] She wrote a series -[4510.86 --> 4512.20] of stories and novels -[4512.20 --> 4512.64] called -[4512.64 --> 4513.86] The Lord Peter -[4513.86 --> 4515.32] Whimsey Stories. -[4516.16 --> 4516.80] Now, Lord Peter -[4516.80 --> 4518.20] was an aristocratic -[4518.20 --> 4518.84] detective. -[4519.46 --> 4520.24] He was single -[4520.24 --> 4521.50] and lonely. -[4522.52 --> 4523.26] And in the middle -[4523.26 --> 4524.10] of the series -[4524.10 --> 4524.96] of books, -[4525.64 --> 4526.30] a tall, -[4526.56 --> 4527.60] not particularly -[4527.60 --> 4528.68] attractive woman -[4528.68 --> 4529.86] named Harriet Vane -[4529.86 --> 4531.74] appears in the stories. -[4532.46 --> 4533.52] Now, Harriet's character -[4533.52 --> 4534.48] is, -[4534.84 --> 4536.04] in the world -[4536.04 --> 4537.64] of Lord Peter Whimsey, -[4537.86 --> 4538.92] one of the first women -[4538.92 --> 4539.68] to go to Oxford -[4539.68 --> 4541.36] and she is a writer -[4541.36 --> 4542.34] of detective fiction. -[4543.16 --> 4544.06] In the stories, -[4544.20 --> 4544.70] she and Peter -[4544.70 --> 4545.44] fall in love -[4545.44 --> 4546.08] and they get married -[4546.08 --> 4546.76] and they solve -[4546.76 --> 4547.62] mysteries together. -[4549.00 --> 4550.12] Now, what's going on? -[4550.84 --> 4550.96] Right? -[4551.58 --> 4552.82] Dorothy Sayers -[4552.82 --> 4554.24] looked at the world -[4554.24 --> 4555.04] she created -[4555.04 --> 4556.06] in her novels, -[4556.52 --> 4557.54] at the character -[4557.54 --> 4558.34] she created -[4558.34 --> 4559.88] in Lord Peter Whimsey -[4559.88 --> 4562.62] and saw his pain -[4562.62 --> 4563.94] and loneliness -[4563.94 --> 4565.34] and fell in love -[4565.34 --> 4565.74] with him. -[4566.20 --> 4566.44] And so, -[4566.54 --> 4567.52] she wrote herself -[4567.52 --> 4569.80] into that story. -[4570.18 --> 4570.94] She wrote herself -[4570.94 --> 4571.90] into the world -[4571.90 --> 4573.04] that she created. -[4573.26 --> 4574.14] That's the gospel. -[4574.78 --> 4574.88] Right? -[4574.94 --> 4575.22] That's what, -[4575.26 --> 4576.66] that's what God did. -[4576.76 --> 4577.92] He created this world -[4577.92 --> 4579.90] and loved us -[4579.90 --> 4580.98] in it so much -[4580.98 --> 4582.06] that he wrote himself -[4582.06 --> 4583.14] into the story -[4583.14 --> 4583.76] that he came -[4583.76 --> 4584.72] in Jesus Christ -[4584.72 --> 4585.76] taking on the very nature -[4585.76 --> 4586.38] of a slave -[4586.38 --> 4587.44] and being found -[4587.44 --> 4588.04] in obedience -[4588.04 --> 4588.78] became obedient -[4588.78 --> 4589.38] unto death, -[4589.48 --> 4590.14] even death -[4590.14 --> 4591.20] on a cross. -[4591.92 --> 4593.00] That's what God did. -[4594.12 --> 4594.56] Likewise, -[4594.70 --> 4595.62] Christianity is unique -[4595.62 --> 4596.52] because of the Bible. -[4597.22 --> 4597.44] Right? -[4597.52 --> 4598.60] The Bible is -[4598.60 --> 4599.88] actually unique -[4599.88 --> 4601.72] among the sacred books -[4601.72 --> 4602.84] of the world's religions -[4602.84 --> 4603.70] in that, -[4603.90 --> 4605.08] in it, -[4605.18 --> 4606.42] the whole history -[4606.42 --> 4607.64] of the world -[4607.64 --> 4608.74] and the structure -[4608.74 --> 4609.58] of the world -[4609.58 --> 4610.56] is revealed. -[4612.24 --> 4612.64] Actually, -[4612.66 --> 4612.98] why don't you -[4612.98 --> 4614.10] pick up on that -[4614.10 --> 4614.44] because I know -[4614.44 --> 4615.06] you have a thing here? -[4615.20 --> 4615.32] Well, -[4615.36 --> 4615.74] I think, -[4616.14 --> 4616.78] I think -[4616.78 --> 4618.12] Christianity's -[4618.12 --> 4619.28] rootedness in history -[4619.28 --> 4620.90] is such a massive difference -[4620.90 --> 4621.88] compared to other -[4621.88 --> 4622.46] world religions -[4622.46 --> 4623.06] is what sets -[4623.06 --> 4624.10] Christianity apart. -[4625.54 --> 4626.38] Christianity is just, -[4626.46 --> 4627.80] it's rooted in history. -[4627.94 --> 4628.56] It's easily -[4628.56 --> 4629.12] the most, -[4629.12 --> 4630.54] most falsifiable -[4630.54 --> 4631.56] religion -[4631.56 --> 4632.54] in the world. -[4632.66 --> 4633.32] Falsifiable means -[4633.32 --> 4634.56] it's the easiest religion -[4634.56 --> 4635.34] to prove wrong. -[4635.70 --> 4636.56] Christianity is -[4636.56 --> 4637.34] because of that, -[4637.36 --> 4638.40] because it roots itself -[4638.40 --> 4639.32] in history. -[4640.12 --> 4641.76] Its central claims, -[4641.76 --> 4642.58] the fact that Jesus -[4642.58 --> 4644.16] lived and died -[4644.16 --> 4645.12] and rose again, -[4645.28 --> 4645.86] they're historical. -[4646.16 --> 4646.90] No other religion -[4646.90 --> 4647.34] does this. -[4647.54 --> 4648.02] Islam, -[4648.16 --> 4648.78] you have to trust -[4648.78 --> 4650.26] in a private dream -[4650.26 --> 4651.26] that Muhammad had -[4651.26 --> 4651.90] and just trust -[4651.90 --> 4652.68] in that dream -[4652.68 --> 4654.26] as the central claim -[4654.26 --> 4654.78] to Islam. -[4655.60 --> 4656.34] Jehovah's Witnesses, -[4656.40 --> 4656.92] the same thing -[4656.92 --> 4657.74] but with Joseph Smith. -[4657.82 --> 4658.34] You have to trust -[4658.34 --> 4658.90] his dreams -[4658.90 --> 4659.82] and his visions -[4659.82 --> 4660.64] and you can't -[4660.64 --> 4661.56] historically test -[4661.56 --> 4662.20] those things. -[4662.74 --> 4664.52] Buddhism and Hinduism, -[4664.76 --> 4665.72] they're not historic -[4665.72 --> 4667.14] faiths, right? -[4667.24 --> 4668.88] They don't have -[4668.88 --> 4669.46] any claims -[4669.46 --> 4670.16] central to their -[4670.16 --> 4671.00] belief system -[4671.00 --> 4671.68] that are rooted -[4671.68 --> 4672.50] in history. -[4672.96 --> 4674.08] You either adopt -[4674.08 --> 4674.86] their philosophies, -[4674.98 --> 4675.66] adopt their way -[4675.66 --> 4676.20] of life -[4676.20 --> 4677.20] or you don't. -[4677.36 --> 4678.66] You can't test -[4678.66 --> 4679.92] that against history. -[4680.42 --> 4681.26] If you make your way -[4681.26 --> 4682.32] through all of the religions -[4682.32 --> 4683.00] in the world, -[4683.12 --> 4684.72] this theme rings true. -[4684.86 --> 4685.82] Either there's -[4685.82 --> 4687.10] no historic details -[4687.10 --> 4689.48] given to its central event, -[4689.54 --> 4690.48] to the central themes, -[4690.52 --> 4691.32] to the central cogs -[4691.32 --> 4691.82] of that religion -[4691.82 --> 4692.80] or there's no historic -[4692.80 --> 4694.72] events which form -[4694.72 --> 4695.36] the foundation -[4695.36 --> 4696.88] of the faith. -[4697.44 --> 4698.52] There's this really cool guy, -[4698.58 --> 4699.64] his name's Michael Payton. -[4699.64 --> 4702.68] He wrote a few notes on this. -[4702.74 --> 4703.36] He points this out -[4703.36 --> 4703.90] very nicely -[4703.90 --> 4704.96] and he uses this example -[4704.96 --> 4707.14] which I have now rewritten -[4707.14 --> 4708.62] to make it more applicable -[4708.62 --> 4709.58] to us here in Canada. -[4710.10 --> 4710.68] He says this. -[4710.74 --> 4711.02] He says, -[4711.42 --> 4712.56] if I decided to start -[4712.56 --> 4713.04] a religion, -[4713.38 --> 4714.50] deceptively or not, -[4715.04 --> 4715.70] so whether I'm trying -[4715.70 --> 4716.68] to deceive people or not, -[4716.72 --> 4717.74] if I decided to start -[4717.74 --> 4718.36] a new religion, -[4718.66 --> 4719.62] I would not make -[4719.62 --> 4720.50] false claims -[4720.50 --> 4722.38] to recent historic events -[4722.38 --> 4723.12] that didn't happen -[4723.12 --> 4724.42] because I know -[4724.42 --> 4725.18] that those claims -[4725.18 --> 4725.80] could be tested. -[4726.28 --> 4727.44] I would not give details -[4727.44 --> 4728.82] about time and place -[4728.82 --> 4729.66] and people involved. -[4729.94 --> 4730.60] So for example, -[4730.70 --> 4731.64] I would not say -[4731.64 --> 4732.90] that a man was born -[4732.90 --> 4735.00] in 1985 named Trent -[4735.00 --> 4736.22] and he was born -[4736.22 --> 4737.10] in Langley, BC. -[4737.42 --> 4738.44] He traveled about -[4738.44 --> 4739.34] the Fraser Valley -[4739.34 --> 4740.40] performing miracles -[4740.40 --> 4741.00] and gaining -[4741.00 --> 4742.16] a significant following. -[4742.82 --> 4743.80] This could be falsified. -[4743.90 --> 4744.64] This could be tested. -[4744.90 --> 4745.60] I would not say -[4745.60 --> 4746.92] that John Horgan, -[4747.16 --> 4748.18] the premier of BC -[4748.18 --> 4749.54] along with Justin Trudeau, -[4749.62 --> 4750.84] the prime minister of Canada, -[4751.18 --> 4752.60] had Trent electrocuted. -[4753.10 --> 4755.38] I would not detail that. -[4755.38 --> 4756.30] I would not detail -[4756.30 --> 4757.16] that the electrocution -[4757.16 --> 4758.74] took place in Port Moody, BC -[4758.74 --> 4759.94] and I would not say -[4759.94 --> 4760.40] that it happened -[4760.40 --> 4762.54] on January 13, 2019 -[4762.54 --> 4763.40] at 9 a.m. -[4764.08 --> 4765.06] I wouldn't claim -[4765.06 --> 4766.56] that Trent rose from the grave -[4766.56 --> 4767.86] and gained a significant -[4767.86 --> 4769.14] following afterwards -[4769.14 --> 4770.48] throughout British Columbia -[4770.48 --> 4771.34] that eventually spread -[4771.34 --> 4772.02] throughout Canada. -[4772.36 --> 4773.92] I wouldn't make these claims -[4773.92 --> 4774.68] as a foundation -[4774.68 --> 4775.62] of my new religion -[4775.62 --> 4776.86] because all of them -[4776.86 --> 4777.52] can be tested. -[4777.70 --> 4779.68] All of them can be falsified. -[4779.86 --> 4780.76] You can go back -[4780.76 --> 4781.46] and prove it. -[4781.92 --> 4783.38] But that's what Christianity does. -[4783.48 --> 4784.42] That's why Christianity -[4784.42 --> 4785.16] is different from -[4785.16 --> 4785.84] these other religions -[4785.84 --> 4787.54] is it takes the life of Jesus -[4787.54 --> 4788.38] and in fact it takes -[4788.38 --> 4789.70] the history of the world -[4789.70 --> 4792.02] and it plants it in God's story -[4792.02 --> 4793.18] which separates it -[4793.18 --> 4795.92] from other religions. -[4796.06 --> 4796.96] It's not private. -[4797.08 --> 4797.64] It's historical. -[4797.82 --> 4798.48] It's a story. -[4798.58 --> 4800.32] It's a true story. -[4801.24 --> 4802.60] I took up a bunch of your answer. -[4803.18 --> 4803.38] You did, -[4803.48 --> 4804.10] but I really, -[4804.20 --> 4804.94] I love that -[4804.94 --> 4806.20] and I think that's -[4806.20 --> 4808.12] in 1 Corinthians 15, -[4808.28 --> 4809.12] Paul's writing about -[4809.12 --> 4810.36] the resurrection of Jesus -[4810.36 --> 4810.92] and he says -[4810.92 --> 4812.44] there was 500 of us there. -[4812.44 --> 4813.76] He's basically saying -[4813.76 --> 4814.76] talk to him. -[4815.30 --> 4815.76] Test it. -[4816.04 --> 4817.50] See if this really happened. -[4817.60 --> 4818.96] He's challenging you -[4818.96 --> 4820.50] to go check it out. -[4821.20 --> 4821.84] The same thing -[4821.84 --> 4823.40] as you were -[4823.40 --> 4823.96] ranting. -[4824.12 --> 4824.80] Ranting, sure. -[4825.52 --> 4826.54] I thought about -[4826.54 --> 4827.92] Mark 4. -[4828.06 --> 4828.72] Mark 4, -[4829.24 --> 4829.52] Jesus, -[4829.90 --> 4831.02] he's in the boat -[4831.02 --> 4831.70] and he goes out -[4831.70 --> 4832.36] into the storm -[4832.36 --> 4834.82] and Mark writes, -[4834.98 --> 4836.32] leaving the crowd behind, -[4836.50 --> 4837.28] they took him along -[4837.28 --> 4838.00] just as he was -[4838.00 --> 4838.56] in the boat. -[4839.02 --> 4839.72] There were also -[4839.72 --> 4840.66] other boats with him. -[4840.66 --> 4842.74] And the question is, -[4843.28 --> 4844.64] why does that second line there, -[4844.68 --> 4845.14] there were also -[4845.14 --> 4845.82] other boats with him, -[4845.84 --> 4846.50] why does that matter? -[4847.16 --> 4847.68] It doesn't. -[4847.70 --> 4849.14] It doesn't advance the story. -[4849.48 --> 4850.84] It doesn't communicate -[4850.84 --> 4851.92] a greater truth. -[4852.54 --> 4853.62] But what it does do -[4853.62 --> 4855.96] is what's probably happening, -[4856.08 --> 4856.28] right, -[4856.32 --> 4857.18] is that Peter, -[4857.72 --> 4859.16] who's Mark's source -[4859.16 --> 4860.06] for this material, -[4860.46 --> 4861.62] is sort of standing -[4861.62 --> 4862.42] beside Mark -[4862.42 --> 4863.04] as he's writing -[4863.04 --> 4863.80] these things down. -[4864.06 --> 4865.08] He's telling this story, -[4865.16 --> 4865.28] right? -[4865.32 --> 4865.96] Oh, that one time -[4865.96 --> 4867.86] we were at the Sea of Galilee -[4867.86 --> 4869.04] and there was a, -[4869.16 --> 4870.42] Jesus wanted to get away -[4870.42 --> 4870.84] from the crowd -[4870.84 --> 4871.46] so we went out -[4871.46 --> 4872.02] into the water -[4872.02 --> 4872.78] and there was a bunch -[4872.78 --> 4873.26] of other boats -[4873.26 --> 4873.94] on the water too, -[4874.20 --> 4874.32] right? -[4874.32 --> 4875.68] Like it's just a casual aside -[4875.68 --> 4876.86] but Mark writes that down -[4876.86 --> 4878.24] because it really happened, -[4878.90 --> 4879.06] right? -[4879.10 --> 4879.70] That's evidence -[4879.70 --> 4880.62] that this actually -[4880.62 --> 4881.90] took place. -[4883.08 --> 4883.56] And so I think -[4883.56 --> 4884.96] the historical rootedness -[4884.96 --> 4885.36] is awesome -[4885.36 --> 4886.34] and you see that throughout. -[4886.68 --> 4887.98] I would also just quickly say -[4887.98 --> 4889.46] that Christianity -[4889.46 --> 4891.48] is the religion that works. -[4892.12 --> 4892.80] And what I mean by that -[4892.80 --> 4893.66] is that not only -[4893.66 --> 4894.42] in salvation, -[4894.68 --> 4894.84] right, -[4894.90 --> 4895.64] that no one comes -[4895.64 --> 4896.14] to the Father -[4896.14 --> 4897.02] except through me, -[4897.02 --> 4897.64] says Jesus, -[4898.10 --> 4898.60] but Christianity -[4898.60 --> 4899.18] is also the one -[4899.18 --> 4899.86] in which we see -[4899.86 --> 4901.48] lives transformed. -[4902.14 --> 4902.70] Some of you -[4902.70 --> 4903.94] have stories -[4903.94 --> 4905.94] of God transforming -[4905.94 --> 4907.18] your life dramatically -[4907.18 --> 4908.88] and miraculously, -[4909.60 --> 4910.58] of saving you, -[4910.96 --> 4912.08] of healing you, -[4912.40 --> 4912.56] right? -[4912.64 --> 4913.12] Christianity -[4913.12 --> 4914.52] is the one -[4914.52 --> 4915.12] that comes -[4915.12 --> 4916.36] with the transformation -[4916.36 --> 4917.86] of God. -[4918.64 --> 4920.92] And so I think -[4920.92 --> 4921.32] Christianity -[4921.32 --> 4922.00] is different -[4922.00 --> 4922.84] from other world religions -[4922.84 --> 4923.64] because it's right -[4923.64 --> 4925.20] and because it works. -[4925.20 --> 4926.96] All right, -[4927.00 --> 4927.56] we're going to pivot -[4927.56 --> 4929.10] to Thunder Round 4, -[4929.20 --> 4929.96] but before we do that, -[4930.02 --> 4930.80] can I just like -[4930.80 --> 4931.60] do a little ice break -[4931.60 --> 4933.26] and break the ice here again? -[4933.50 --> 4933.68] Yeah. -[4933.80 --> 4934.50] Just tell a joke. -[4934.60 --> 4935.20] Can I tell a joke? -[4935.28 --> 4935.68] Is that okay? -[4935.98 --> 4936.64] Because I heard this joke -[4936.64 --> 4937.60] this week that's really funny. -[4938.32 --> 4938.86] Can I do that? -[4939.02 --> 4939.78] See if you know the answer. -[4939.96 --> 4940.10] All right. -[4940.14 --> 4941.06] What's the difference -[4941.06 --> 4942.72] between roast beef -[4942.72 --> 4943.54] and pea soup? -[4944.96 --> 4945.32] Anybody? -[4946.36 --> 4946.98] Pastor Chris? -[4947.98 --> 4948.62] I'm not sure -[4948.62 --> 4949.58] I want to say the answer. -[4950.32 --> 4950.64] Can I? -[4950.88 --> 4951.10] Yeah, -[4951.34 --> 4952.38] you can do you, man. -[4952.38 --> 4953.58] Anyone can roast beef. -[4954.14 --> 4954.42] All right. -[4955.62 --> 4956.64] Thunder Round 4. -[4958.30 --> 4958.98] It's coming. -[4959.16 --> 4959.46] It's coming. -[4959.46 --> 4960.50] It's coming in waves. -[4960.68 --> 4960.98] There it is. -[4960.98 --> 4961.66] There it is. -[4961.70 --> 4962.16] It's clipped. -[4962.92 --> 4963.24] All right. -[4964.74 --> 4966.14] Thunder Round 4. -[4967.86 --> 4969.42] This question needs -[4969.42 --> 4969.82] a little bit -[4969.82 --> 4970.70] of a preamble here. -[4970.88 --> 4973.12] So it's about Acts Chapter 2. -[4973.58 --> 4975.14] It's a very cool chapter -[4975.14 --> 4975.66] in the Bible. -[4976.08 --> 4977.36] It describes the outpouring -[4977.36 --> 4978.30] of the Holy Spirit. -[4978.42 --> 4979.28] It comes down on Peter -[4979.28 --> 4980.46] and the disciples. -[4980.46 --> 4981.80] Peter then addresses -[4981.80 --> 4982.58] this crowd -[4982.58 --> 4983.72] full of the Holy Spirit -[4983.72 --> 4985.24] and he's able to speak -[4985.24 --> 4986.44] to all of them in tongues -[4986.44 --> 4987.90] in their own language. -[4988.00 --> 4988.76] Now the question -[4988.76 --> 4989.60] that was written down -[4989.60 --> 4990.00] was this. -[4990.32 --> 4991.90] Was this gifting of tongues -[4991.90 --> 4993.48] a permanent gift -[4993.48 --> 4994.40] given to Peter -[4994.40 --> 4995.32] and the apostles -[4995.32 --> 4996.64] or was it a gift -[4996.64 --> 4997.76] given to the crowd -[4997.76 --> 4999.32] who heard Peter's speech -[4999.32 --> 5000.04] and were able -[5000.04 --> 5001.22] to understand it -[5001.22 --> 5002.52] only to be then -[5002.52 --> 5003.04] taken away -[5003.04 --> 5004.04] when the sermon was over? -[5005.42 --> 5006.08] That track? -[5006.16 --> 5006.48] That question -[5006.48 --> 5006.96] makes sense? -[5007.56 --> 5008.54] Is the gift of tongues -[5008.54 --> 5009.48] a permanent gift -[5009.48 --> 5010.64] or was it taken away? -[5010.78 --> 5010.88] Right. -[5011.00 --> 5011.70] Was it for Peter -[5011.70 --> 5012.58] or was it for the crowd? -[5014.32 --> 5015.34] And so I think -[5015.34 --> 5018.42] there's a lot going on -[5018.42 --> 5018.88] in this question. -[5018.96 --> 5020.02] We'll probably have follow-ups. -[5020.86 --> 5022.78] But Acts 2 verse 4 -[5022.78 --> 5023.64] says that -[5023.64 --> 5025.04] all of them were filled -[5025.04 --> 5025.78] with the Holy Spirit -[5025.78 --> 5026.88] and began to speak -[5026.88 --> 5027.84] in other tongues -[5027.84 --> 5029.14] as the Spirit enabled them. -[5029.62 --> 5031.04] And so first answer, -[5031.38 --> 5031.56] right, -[5031.66 --> 5032.48] from the text -[5032.48 --> 5033.02] you can see -[5033.02 --> 5034.90] that it's the apostles -[5034.90 --> 5035.62] or the disciples -[5035.62 --> 5036.46] who are speaking -[5036.46 --> 5037.26] in tongues -[5037.26 --> 5038.04] that they all -[5038.04 --> 5039.36] were able to do it -[5039.36 --> 5041.04] such that everyone -[5041.04 --> 5041.96] who heard them -[5041.96 --> 5043.26] heard in their own tongue. -[5043.68 --> 5043.86] Right? -[5043.92 --> 5044.68] And now everyone -[5044.68 --> 5045.42] who heard them, -[5045.48 --> 5046.44] there's a large group -[5046.44 --> 5049.62] of Jewish diaspora -[5049.62 --> 5050.72] who have gathered -[5050.72 --> 5052.44] for the festival -[5052.44 --> 5053.38] of Pentecost. -[5053.48 --> 5054.20] They have come from -[5054.20 --> 5055.68] all over the place -[5055.68 --> 5056.68] to this is one -[5056.68 --> 5057.62] of the pilgrimage festivals -[5058.22 --> 5059.76] in the Jewish religion. -[5061.40 --> 5062.44] And yet, -[5062.78 --> 5065.12] after that particular event, -[5065.12 --> 5067.04] there is no evidence -[5067.04 --> 5068.70] from the rest -[5068.70 --> 5069.72] of the book of Acts -[5069.72 --> 5071.24] that the ability -[5071.24 --> 5072.60] to speak in tongues -[5072.60 --> 5073.64] or that the ability -[5073.64 --> 5074.56] to go into a place -[5074.56 --> 5075.72] with a different language -[5075.72 --> 5077.28] and they were heard -[5077.28 --> 5077.98] in their own tongue. -[5078.04 --> 5078.70] Now I get that -[5078.70 --> 5080.70] the absence of evidence -[5080.70 --> 5081.52] is not the evidence -[5081.52 --> 5082.10] of absence. -[5082.50 --> 5083.48] I understand that. -[5084.22 --> 5084.62] And yet, -[5084.86 --> 5085.68] there doesn't seem -[5085.68 --> 5086.18] to be... -[5086.18 --> 5086.52] Attract. -[5086.76 --> 5087.06] Good. -[5087.54 --> 5088.34] There doesn't seem -[5088.34 --> 5089.10] to be any indication -[5089.10 --> 5090.16] that that continued on. -[5091.38 --> 5092.46] That being said, -[5092.62 --> 5093.90] we could begin -[5093.90 --> 5094.40] to understand -[5094.40 --> 5095.08] a little bit more -[5095.08 --> 5098.04] when we look -[5098.04 --> 5098.78] at the cultural -[5098.78 --> 5100.10] and the sort of -[5100.10 --> 5101.42] geopolitical context -[5101.42 --> 5103.64] in which the book of Acts -[5103.64 --> 5105.06] and at the Pentecost festival -[5105.06 --> 5106.04] is taking place. -[5106.26 --> 5107.18] Because really, -[5107.42 --> 5108.84] there's probably only -[5108.84 --> 5110.22] a small handful -[5110.22 --> 5110.96] of languages -[5110.96 --> 5111.78] that would have been -[5111.78 --> 5112.54] represented there. -[5113.42 --> 5113.88] And so, -[5114.26 --> 5114.84] Aramaic -[5114.84 --> 5116.96] was the common tongue -[5116.96 --> 5118.56] of most of the Jews -[5118.56 --> 5121.06] who lived in that... -[5121.06 --> 5122.24] in the region -[5122.24 --> 5122.90] of Palestine -[5122.90 --> 5124.64] and Israel. -[5124.96 --> 5126.88] So that was language one. -[5127.54 --> 5128.06] Greek -[5128.06 --> 5129.20] is the -[5129.20 --> 5130.42] lingua franca -[5130.42 --> 5131.16] of the region -[5131.16 --> 5132.42] and so that area -[5132.42 --> 5133.10] of the empire -[5133.10 --> 5134.92] because of the exploits -[5134.92 --> 5136.02] of Alexander the Great, -[5136.30 --> 5136.48] you know, -[5136.52 --> 5137.48] 300 years before, -[5137.92 --> 5139.22] was the language -[5139.22 --> 5140.02] that everybody -[5140.02 --> 5141.28] spoke. -[5141.94 --> 5142.80] Also likely, -[5142.92 --> 5143.34] there was probably -[5143.34 --> 5143.86] some Latin -[5143.86 --> 5144.60] being spoke -[5144.60 --> 5145.12] as you have -[5145.12 --> 5146.32] people from Rome -[5146.32 --> 5147.24] and the governing officials -[5147.24 --> 5147.76] who are coming. -[5148.78 --> 5149.98] There's a possibility -[5149.98 --> 5151.22] that some -[5151.22 --> 5152.70] would have spoke Hebrew, -[5153.22 --> 5154.22] although that language -[5154.22 --> 5155.68] was mostly reserved -[5155.68 --> 5157.42] for specific religious -[5157.42 --> 5159.52] or high political events -[5159.52 --> 5160.94] and it may even -[5160.94 --> 5161.40] have been -[5161.40 --> 5163.22] not uncommon to... -[5163.22 --> 5163.84] If you're familiar -[5163.84 --> 5165.18] with the Roman Catholic tradition -[5165.18 --> 5167.22] prior to Second Vatican Council -[5167.22 --> 5168.46] when all the services -[5168.46 --> 5169.42] were held in Latin, -[5169.80 --> 5170.54] the average person -[5170.54 --> 5171.54] sitting in the pews -[5171.54 --> 5172.48] didn't understand -[5172.48 --> 5173.24] what was being said. -[5173.86 --> 5174.46] It's possible -[5174.46 --> 5175.48] that that was similar -[5175.48 --> 5176.66] in the Second Temple period -[5176.66 --> 5178.08] when they were using Hebrew -[5178.08 --> 5179.64] to do the services -[5179.64 --> 5180.88] that the average person -[5180.88 --> 5181.88] didn't fully understand -[5181.88 --> 5182.78] what was going on. -[5184.68 --> 5185.36] And then, -[5185.58 --> 5187.64] there is a small chance -[5187.64 --> 5188.34] that there's -[5188.34 --> 5189.06] what are called -[5189.06 --> 5190.64] Neo-Phrygian dialects -[5190.64 --> 5191.34] that are being spoken. -[5191.48 --> 5192.78] That's from modern-day Turkey, -[5193.00 --> 5194.32] but that's related to Greek -[5194.32 --> 5195.16] and so if you spoke Greek, -[5195.22 --> 5195.72] you would have been able -[5195.72 --> 5196.26] to understand. -[5197.00 --> 5197.28] And then, -[5197.60 --> 5197.98] maybe, -[5198.14 --> 5199.22] even less likely, -[5199.68 --> 5201.46] represented in Pentecost, -[5201.72 --> 5202.68] there would be -[5202.68 --> 5203.88] some forms of demotic, -[5203.88 --> 5204.52] which is -[5204.52 --> 5206.74] the then-contemporary -[5206.74 --> 5207.54] Egyptian. -[5209.06 --> 5209.58] But, -[5209.66 --> 5210.76] especially for those -[5210.76 --> 5211.44] who would travel -[5211.44 --> 5212.26] around the world, -[5212.54 --> 5213.42] it wouldn't be uncommon -[5213.42 --> 5214.22] for these citizens -[5214.22 --> 5215.26] to be at least -[5215.26 --> 5216.06] trilingual. -[5217.68 --> 5217.84] Right? -[5217.90 --> 5218.18] And so, -[5218.44 --> 5219.36] sometimes I think we, -[5220.00 --> 5220.68] and that's not to -[5220.68 --> 5222.16] mitigate the miracle, -[5222.30 --> 5224.14] but we overstate, -[5224.52 --> 5225.74] we presume -[5225.74 --> 5226.26] that there's, -[5226.44 --> 5226.68] you know, -[5226.92 --> 5228.28] 20s or hundreds -[5228.28 --> 5228.86] of languages -[5228.86 --> 5230.00] that are being understood there. -[5230.06 --> 5231.34] That's probably not the case. -[5231.34 --> 5233.30] Also, -[5233.60 --> 5234.90] we'll dig a little deep here -[5234.90 --> 5235.78] into language -[5235.78 --> 5237.70] and the word tongues -[5237.70 --> 5238.70] in Greek. -[5239.38 --> 5240.32] The word tongues -[5240.32 --> 5240.86] in Greek -[5240.86 --> 5241.60] is glosius, -[5242.26 --> 5243.80] and that's the word -[5243.80 --> 5245.02] that we get glosectomy -[5245.02 --> 5245.56] from, -[5245.90 --> 5246.06] right? -[5246.12 --> 5247.12] That's the surgery -[5247.12 --> 5248.02] that we have -[5248.02 --> 5248.80] to remove part -[5248.80 --> 5249.30] of our tongue, -[5249.74 --> 5250.02] right? -[5250.24 --> 5251.58] Or the word -[5251.58 --> 5252.30] where we get, -[5252.84 --> 5253.44] I want to make sure -[5253.44 --> 5253.94] I say this right, -[5254.42 --> 5255.36] ankyloglossia. -[5255.82 --> 5256.04] And so, -[5256.10 --> 5257.14] maybe some of your kids -[5257.14 --> 5258.32] were born with a tongue tie, -[5258.52 --> 5258.68] right? -[5258.70 --> 5259.50] The surgery to cut -[5259.50 --> 5260.30] that tongue tie -[5260.30 --> 5261.38] is ankyloglossia, -[5261.68 --> 5262.10] but in there -[5262.10 --> 5262.86] you hear the word -[5262.86 --> 5263.42] glosius, -[5263.66 --> 5264.94] but it's also the word -[5264.94 --> 5265.80] from which we get -[5265.80 --> 5266.48] glossary, -[5267.02 --> 5267.20] right? -[5267.26 --> 5267.96] You find that -[5267.96 --> 5268.78] at the back of a book -[5268.78 --> 5269.32] you might read -[5269.32 --> 5270.30] a list of subjects -[5270.30 --> 5271.40] pertaining to that -[5271.40 --> 5272.20] particular field. -[5272.78 --> 5272.92] So, -[5272.98 --> 5273.86] the word tongues, -[5274.04 --> 5274.42] glosius, -[5274.56 --> 5275.86] can mean tongue, -[5276.08 --> 5276.92] but it can also mean -[5276.92 --> 5277.44] languages, -[5278.16 --> 5278.42] right? -[5278.48 --> 5279.48] And here, -[5279.66 --> 5280.22] in Acts 2, -[5280.36 --> 5281.66] it's used for other languages, -[5281.66 --> 5282.94] that's clear from the context, -[5283.22 --> 5284.82] but in a place like Acts 19 -[5284.82 --> 5286.42] or 1 Corinthians 11 -[5286.42 --> 5287.22] through 14, -[5287.78 --> 5288.68] it's also clear -[5288.68 --> 5289.58] that it refers to -[5289.58 --> 5291.46] the speech of angels -[5291.46 --> 5292.90] or a special -[5292.90 --> 5294.58] sort of prayer language -[5294.58 --> 5296.24] used for talking to God. -[5297.38 --> 5297.64] Now, -[5298.42 --> 5299.46] recognizing that tongues -[5299.46 --> 5300.90] has multiple uses -[5300.90 --> 5301.54] and meanings, -[5301.66 --> 5302.48] I think it is important -[5302.48 --> 5302.92] to note -[5302.92 --> 5304.86] that in that conversation -[5304.86 --> 5305.64] in Corinthians, -[5306.08 --> 5306.78] in 1 Corinthians, -[5307.26 --> 5308.64] when Paul is talking, -[5308.90 --> 5309.82] 1 Corinthians 13 -[5309.82 --> 5310.84] is this famous chapter -[5310.84 --> 5311.36] on love, -[5311.44 --> 5311.62] right? -[5311.66 --> 5312.36] Love is patient, -[5312.36 --> 5314.40] and it says -[5314.40 --> 5316.80] that love never ceases, -[5316.80 --> 5318.18] but Paul goes on to say -[5318.18 --> 5319.40] where there is tongues, -[5319.68 --> 5320.74] they will cease. -[5321.96 --> 5322.36] Now, -[5322.48 --> 5323.54] don't hear what I'm not saying. -[5323.78 --> 5324.48] I'm not trying to say -[5324.48 --> 5325.80] that we are cessationists, -[5326.16 --> 5326.92] and by that I mean -[5326.92 --> 5328.10] that we believe -[5328.10 --> 5328.82] that the Spirit -[5328.82 --> 5329.94] doesn't operate -[5329.94 --> 5330.68] in that way. -[5331.42 --> 5332.70] I'm simply saying -[5332.70 --> 5334.04] that tongues -[5334.04 --> 5335.68] have an end point -[5335.68 --> 5336.94] to their usefulness, -[5337.22 --> 5337.40] right? -[5337.42 --> 5338.28] The special gifts -[5338.28 --> 5339.64] do have a stop -[5339.64 --> 5341.66] or a defined term -[5341.66 --> 5343.38] of their being used, -[5344.02 --> 5345.76] whereas love does not. -[5345.76 --> 5347.22] And so to answer -[5347.22 --> 5347.70] the question, -[5347.84 --> 5348.58] long story short, -[5348.92 --> 5349.90] it seems that -[5349.90 --> 5350.54] it is limited -[5350.54 --> 5352.02] to that encounter. -[5352.68 --> 5353.78] That's not to say -[5353.78 --> 5355.08] necessarily about tongues -[5355.08 --> 5356.04] being present -[5356.04 --> 5356.52] in the life -[5356.52 --> 5357.18] of the church today. -[5357.44 --> 5357.68] Perfect. -[5357.80 --> 5358.34] I was going to ask -[5358.34 --> 5358.74] a question -[5358.74 --> 5359.52] to end that one off, -[5359.56 --> 5360.44] but you answered it already, -[5360.54 --> 5361.72] so we're just going to -[5361.72 --> 5362.70] bypass that then, -[5362.80 --> 5362.88] right? -[5363.22 --> 5363.80] Anything I can -[5363.80 --> 5364.36] to cut you out. -[5364.74 --> 5365.98] That's what everybody says. -[5366.98 --> 5367.34] All right. -[5367.98 --> 5368.74] So we're on -[5368.74 --> 5369.56] to the final question. -[5370.18 --> 5370.34] So, -[5371.42 --> 5372.22] Thunder Round 5, -[5372.42 --> 5373.20] final question, -[5373.20 --> 5376.06] not just of today's adventure, -[5376.30 --> 5377.60] but also the sermon series -[5377.60 --> 5378.74] throughout the summer, -[5379.22 --> 5379.78] is this, -[5379.80 --> 5380.38] and it's a really, -[5380.58 --> 5381.24] really good question -[5381.24 --> 5381.90] to sort of end -[5381.90 --> 5383.52] this whole sermon series on. -[5383.94 --> 5384.20] It's, -[5384.48 --> 5385.14] what do you do -[5385.14 --> 5386.26] when you question -[5386.26 --> 5387.62] God's existence? -[5389.96 --> 5390.70] So you said -[5390.70 --> 5391.66] it was a really good question, -[5391.78 --> 5392.56] so what do you do? -[5394.12 --> 5395.20] I would say -[5395.20 --> 5395.82] keep questioning. -[5397.70 --> 5398.48] Keep questioning. -[5399.04 --> 5399.42] And I think -[5399.42 --> 5400.12] that's the right answer, -[5400.48 --> 5400.90] actually. -[5400.90 --> 5402.82] When you question -[5402.82 --> 5403.74] God's existence, -[5404.30 --> 5405.64] keep on questioning. -[5406.50 --> 5407.16] And let's be really -[5407.16 --> 5408.38] clear about this, -[5408.44 --> 5408.56] right? -[5408.60 --> 5409.48] As Christians, -[5410.04 --> 5411.10] we live -[5411.10 --> 5411.98] and operate -[5411.98 --> 5412.86] and exercise -[5412.86 --> 5413.64] our faith -[5413.64 --> 5415.46] in the long history -[5415.46 --> 5416.30] and tradition -[5416.30 --> 5418.34] of asking questions, -[5419.36 --> 5421.06] of seeking out answers. -[5421.78 --> 5423.94] Fides quarens intellectum. -[5424.46 --> 5425.42] You sound like Harry Potter. -[5425.72 --> 5426.18] I wish. -[5427.22 --> 5429.08] Faith-seeking understanding. -[5429.08 --> 5431.88] It's from Anselm -[5431.88 --> 5433.62] and it picks up -[5433.62 --> 5434.20] on the tradition -[5434.20 --> 5435.50] of Augustine before him -[5435.50 --> 5436.26] and Irenaeus -[5436.26 --> 5437.22] and Justin Martyr, -[5437.62 --> 5437.76] right? -[5438.18 --> 5439.10] Our faith -[5439.10 --> 5440.46] seeks understanding -[5440.46 --> 5441.86] and so we ask -[5441.86 --> 5442.82] questions. -[5443.46 --> 5444.44] Peter Abelard says, -[5444.80 --> 5445.38] by doubting, -[5445.50 --> 5446.34] we come to question -[5446.34 --> 5447.12] and by questioning, -[5447.30 --> 5448.58] we perceive truth. -[5449.32 --> 5450.76] Without questions, -[5451.06 --> 5452.08] we don't find truth. -[5452.08 --> 5452.76] truth. -[5454.04 --> 5454.88] And so if you're -[5454.88 --> 5455.78] questioning the existence -[5455.78 --> 5456.26] of God, -[5456.36 --> 5457.22] keep asking those -[5457.22 --> 5458.10] questions. -[5459.00 --> 5460.22] You have a story -[5460.22 --> 5460.80] from your life, -[5460.88 --> 5460.96] right? -[5460.96 --> 5461.08] I do. -[5461.08 --> 5462.18] That might highlight -[5462.18 --> 5462.84] this a little bit. -[5463.68 --> 5464.50] So when I, -[5465.14 --> 5466.04] some of you have heard -[5466.04 --> 5466.50] this story, -[5466.58 --> 5467.68] but when I was 26, -[5467.92 --> 5468.80] I was in seminary, -[5469.66 --> 5470.62] my final year -[5470.62 --> 5471.64] of seminary, -[5471.64 --> 5474.38] and I was studying -[5474.38 --> 5475.00] theology -[5475.00 --> 5476.02] and Christian philosophy -[5476.02 --> 5477.72] and deep in the midst -[5477.72 --> 5478.30] of this -[5478.30 --> 5479.50] all day, -[5479.72 --> 5480.44] every day, -[5481.28 --> 5482.70] and I went through -[5482.70 --> 5483.82] a deep, -[5484.18 --> 5485.20] deep crisis -[5485.20 --> 5485.82] of faith -[5485.82 --> 5487.92] to the point -[5487.92 --> 5489.88] where I was not sure -[5489.88 --> 5491.30] if I believed -[5491.30 --> 5492.38] or if I could believe. -[5493.48 --> 5494.40] It was -[5494.40 --> 5495.96] an existential -[5495.96 --> 5497.24] crisis of faith -[5497.24 --> 5499.02] that got really dark -[5499.02 --> 5501.02] and got really angry, -[5501.46 --> 5501.84] actually, -[5502.12 --> 5503.28] at the people -[5503.28 --> 5503.88] around me. -[5505.08 --> 5505.22] And -[5505.22 --> 5509.52] I'm trying to think -[5509.52 --> 5510.64] of a polite company -[5510.64 --> 5511.34] way to say this, -[5511.42 --> 5511.54] but -[5511.54 --> 5514.20] I was not pleasant -[5514.20 --> 5514.88] to be around, -[5515.50 --> 5516.46] and I was trying -[5516.46 --> 5517.40] to fight with everybody -[5517.40 --> 5518.96] about ideas -[5518.96 --> 5519.68] or doctrines -[5519.68 --> 5520.82] or what have you. -[5521.14 --> 5521.72] And I had a group -[5521.72 --> 5522.16] of friends -[5522.16 --> 5523.72] who I would -[5523.72 --> 5524.92] always challenge -[5524.92 --> 5526.08] and ask questions -[5526.08 --> 5528.00] and come up -[5528.00 --> 5528.52] with the most -[5528.52 --> 5530.64] ridiculous scenarios -[5530.64 --> 5532.18] and just force them -[5532.18 --> 5533.32] to process -[5533.32 --> 5534.72] my anxiety. -[5536.02 --> 5536.92] And yet, -[5537.46 --> 5538.22] they did. -[5539.10 --> 5540.02] They heard me, -[5540.14 --> 5540.62] they listened, -[5540.80 --> 5541.48] they challenged, -[5541.92 --> 5542.80] they cried, -[5543.60 --> 5544.36] they prayed, -[5544.84 --> 5546.30] and they just -[5546.30 --> 5547.36] walked alongside me -[5547.36 --> 5548.44] in the midst of that. -[5550.44 --> 5551.46] And if it weren't -[5551.46 --> 5552.08] for them, -[5552.36 --> 5553.54] I wouldn't be here today. -[5553.98 --> 5554.62] I wouldn't be sitting -[5554.62 --> 5555.32] on this stage. -[5555.32 --> 5557.74] If it weren't -[5557.74 --> 5558.24] for them, -[5559.12 --> 5560.82] yeah, -[5560.86 --> 5561.22] I don't know. -[5561.64 --> 5562.00] I don't even -[5562.00 --> 5562.60] want to speculate. -[5564.20 --> 5564.94] And remember -[5564.94 --> 5565.62] how we told you -[5565.62 --> 5566.30] back at the beginning, -[5566.42 --> 5566.96] question two, -[5567.04 --> 5567.34] we said, -[5567.40 --> 5568.10] remember that thing -[5568.10 --> 5568.98] in the back of your head -[5568.98 --> 5569.58] about community? -[5569.70 --> 5570.50] It's going to come back -[5570.50 --> 5570.78] later? -[5570.86 --> 5570.98] Well, -[5571.02 --> 5571.60] here it is. -[5572.12 --> 5573.26] And Pastor Chris, -[5573.30 --> 5573.80] your testimony -[5573.80 --> 5574.80] just speaks to that -[5574.80 --> 5575.34] so beautifully. -[5576.02 --> 5576.74] If you're having -[5576.74 --> 5577.66] a crisis of faith, -[5577.78 --> 5580.64] if you are questioning -[5580.64 --> 5581.68] God's existence, -[5581.96 --> 5582.60] keep questioning, -[5582.76 --> 5583.44] but question it -[5583.44 --> 5584.14] in community. -[5584.38 --> 5585.18] Question it with -[5585.18 --> 5586.38] people that you know, -[5586.48 --> 5587.48] people that you trust. -[5588.98 --> 5590.24] The importance -[5590.24 --> 5590.88] of the community -[5590.88 --> 5591.48] of faith really -[5591.48 --> 5592.50] comes out here -[5592.50 --> 5593.66] very vividly. -[5593.72 --> 5594.46] Diedrich Bonhoeffer -[5594.46 --> 5594.84] says this, -[5594.90 --> 5595.14] he says, -[5595.24 --> 5596.12] Christ in the heart -[5596.12 --> 5596.86] of your brother -[5596.86 --> 5598.04] or sister -[5598.04 --> 5599.62] is stronger -[5599.62 --> 5600.86] than Christ -[5600.86 --> 5601.86] in your own heart. -[5601.86 --> 5605.08] Doubt is good. -[5605.30 --> 5606.26] Doubt is a natural thing. -[5606.34 --> 5607.18] We believe in a God -[5607.18 --> 5607.80] that is beyond -[5607.80 --> 5608.58] our understanding. -[5608.72 --> 5609.40] If God is beyond -[5609.40 --> 5610.18] our understanding, -[5610.32 --> 5610.96] we will inevitably -[5610.96 --> 5611.92] doubt that. -[5612.10 --> 5612.88] That is a natural -[5612.88 --> 5613.50] part of faith. -[5613.56 --> 5614.60] It is a natural part -[5614.60 --> 5616.20] of faith in God. -[5616.78 --> 5618.24] But doubt is not bad. -[5618.46 --> 5619.18] Doubt is good. -[5619.26 --> 5620.00] It forces us -[5620.00 --> 5621.40] to ask these questions. -[5622.04 --> 5622.44] But, -[5622.60 --> 5623.52] as you just mentioned, -[5623.58 --> 5624.10] we need to ask -[5624.10 --> 5624.68] these questions -[5624.68 --> 5625.68] in community. -[5626.28 --> 5627.02] The only time -[5627.02 --> 5628.82] doubt becomes toxic -[5628.82 --> 5629.64] is if we do -[5629.64 --> 5630.40] one of two things -[5630.40 --> 5630.76] with it. -[5630.76 --> 5632.64] If we internalize doubt -[5632.64 --> 5634.00] and we leave it inside -[5634.00 --> 5634.76] to try to wrestle -[5634.76 --> 5635.54] with ourselves -[5635.54 --> 5636.50] and not deal -[5636.50 --> 5638.08] with our community, -[5638.34 --> 5639.38] it can become toxic. -[5639.56 --> 5641.02] It can cause anxieties. -[5641.24 --> 5642.70] It can cause improper -[5642.70 --> 5643.56] coping mechanisms. -[5644.24 --> 5645.12] And you will rarely -[5645.12 --> 5646.24] be able to head -[5646.24 --> 5647.32] to those answers -[5647.32 --> 5648.08] and find the truth -[5648.08 --> 5648.40] in them. -[5649.40 --> 5650.20] Doubt that you deal -[5650.20 --> 5650.78] with yourself -[5650.78 --> 5652.38] can become toxic. -[5652.58 --> 5653.10] We need to talk -[5653.10 --> 5653.42] to others. -[5653.56 --> 5654.30] Now, there's another -[5654.30 --> 5655.16] way that doubt -[5655.16 --> 5655.98] can become toxic -[5655.98 --> 5657.10] and that's if you go -[5657.10 --> 5657.92] to the mountaintops -[5657.92 --> 5658.98] and just shout it -[5658.98 --> 5660.16] to the world around you -[5660.16 --> 5662.06] without an attempt -[5662.06 --> 5663.46] to communicate -[5663.46 --> 5664.44] or converse -[5664.44 --> 5666.02] or dialogue about it. -[5667.18 --> 5667.72] If you're doing -[5667.72 --> 5668.20] those things, -[5668.28 --> 5668.62] if you're just -[5668.62 --> 5669.26] proclaiming it -[5669.26 --> 5669.70] to the world, -[5669.76 --> 5670.40] which is easier -[5670.40 --> 5671.24] than it's ever been -[5671.24 --> 5671.92] before because -[5671.92 --> 5672.92] of the good old internet, -[5673.56 --> 5675.02] that can also lead -[5675.02 --> 5675.64] to, again, -[5675.76 --> 5677.10] just internal struggles. -[5677.58 --> 5679.12] And it does not lead -[5679.12 --> 5680.18] to real genuine -[5680.18 --> 5680.94] discussion, -[5681.08 --> 5681.50] engagement, -[5681.96 --> 5682.24] discovery. -[5682.30 --> 5682.60] And it's something -[5682.60 --> 5683.38] actually we're seeing -[5683.38 --> 5685.24] quite prevalently -[5685.24 --> 5686.58] in our culture -[5686.58 --> 5687.08] these days -[5687.08 --> 5688.54] is this proclaiming -[5688.54 --> 5688.88] your doubt -[5688.88 --> 5689.86] from the mountaintops. -[5689.94 --> 5690.60] Maybe you can speak -[5690.60 --> 5691.38] to that a little bit more. -[5691.94 --> 5692.66] Yeah, and so -[5692.66 --> 5694.18] real quick, -[5694.30 --> 5695.12] and thank you -[5695.12 --> 5696.08] for your understanding -[5696.08 --> 5696.56] and patience. -[5696.84 --> 5697.76] I realize what time -[5697.76 --> 5698.12] it is, -[5698.22 --> 5699.30] although just now -[5699.30 --> 5699.98] as it popped up -[5699.98 --> 5700.42] on my screen. -[5702.46 --> 5703.36] In the last number -[5703.36 --> 5703.82] of years, -[5703.94 --> 5704.46] a few years, -[5704.46 --> 5705.34] we've heard all sorts -[5705.34 --> 5706.04] of what are called -[5706.04 --> 5707.70] evangelical deconversion -[5707.70 --> 5708.26] stories. -[5709.56 --> 5710.20] Some of you, -[5710.36 --> 5710.74] if you grew up -[5710.74 --> 5711.26] in the 90s -[5711.26 --> 5711.80] like I did, -[5711.88 --> 5712.30] you would know -[5712.30 --> 5713.38] the name Josh Harris, -[5714.08 --> 5714.26] right, -[5714.28 --> 5714.82] he wrote the book -[5714.82 --> 5716.02] I Kissed Dating Goodbye, -[5716.68 --> 5716.84] right, -[5716.88 --> 5717.90] he was an advocate -[5717.90 --> 5718.98] for purity culture -[5718.98 --> 5720.52] and the like. -[5720.80 --> 5721.68] A few years ago, -[5721.86 --> 5723.84] he apologized -[5723.84 --> 5724.90] for what he did -[5724.90 --> 5725.42] in that book -[5725.42 --> 5725.88] and the harm -[5725.88 --> 5727.00] that it caused people -[5727.00 --> 5727.72] and then just -[5727.72 --> 5729.34] a year ago, -[5729.60 --> 5731.86] he and his wife -[5731.86 --> 5732.66] split up. -[5732.74 --> 5733.30] He's now married -[5733.30 --> 5734.82] to a new woman -[5734.82 --> 5736.80] and he no longer -[5736.80 --> 5738.52] identifies as Christian, -[5738.72 --> 5739.18] his words. -[5740.20 --> 5741.24] And he's actually -[5741.24 --> 5742.16] just released -[5742.16 --> 5742.94] although he did -[5742.94 --> 5743.64] get pulled back -[5743.64 --> 5744.30] because of the -[5744.30 --> 5745.24] controversy it caused. -[5745.30 --> 5746.04] But he just released -[5746.04 --> 5747.96] a course on how -[5747.96 --> 5749.12] to deconstruct -[5749.12 --> 5749.76] your own faith. -[5750.36 --> 5751.02] And so he's become -[5751.02 --> 5751.72] an evangelist -[5751.72 --> 5752.52] for these deconversion -[5752.52 --> 5753.02] stories because -[5753.02 --> 5753.94] he's got that platform. -[5755.04 --> 5755.96] Another name -[5755.96 --> 5756.46] that you might be -[5756.46 --> 5757.98] familiar with -[5757.98 --> 5759.38] is Rhett and Link. -[5759.60 --> 5760.52] They have a YouTube channel. -[5761.56 --> 5762.34] They also went -[5762.34 --> 5763.88] through a very public -[5763.88 --> 5765.04] deconversion experience -[5765.04 --> 5766.06] and just gathered up -[5766.06 --> 5766.62] as many people -[5766.62 --> 5767.10] as they could -[5767.10 --> 5768.28] in the process. -[5769.30 --> 5770.08] These are stories -[5770.08 --> 5770.58] that are big -[5770.58 --> 5771.16] and are public -[5771.16 --> 5772.28] and if I'm -[5772.28 --> 5773.24] frank with you, -[5773.32 --> 5774.40] they listen -[5774.40 --> 5775.08] to the voice -[5775.08 --> 5775.68] of culture -[5775.68 --> 5776.44] more than they -[5776.44 --> 5777.20] listen to the voice -[5777.20 --> 5777.62] of Jesus -[5777.62 --> 5778.24] and the church. -[5779.32 --> 5779.76] And so we need -[5779.76 --> 5780.26] to let Jesus -[5780.26 --> 5781.00] and the church -[5781.00 --> 5781.98] speak into those -[5781.98 --> 5782.38] moments. -[5783.26 --> 5784.14] As you were talking, -[5784.38 --> 5786.14] I love this text -[5786.14 --> 5787.54] from 2 Timothy 2 -[5787.54 --> 5788.98] verse 13. -[5789.68 --> 5790.24] Paul writes -[5790.24 --> 5790.80] to Timothy -[5790.80 --> 5792.12] likely quoting -[5792.12 --> 5793.06] a poem -[5793.06 --> 5793.52] but saying, -[5793.70 --> 5794.76] if we are faithless, -[5794.94 --> 5795.96] he remains faithful -[5795.96 --> 5796.72] for he cannot -[5796.72 --> 5797.60] disown himself. -[5797.60 --> 5800.26] And so be full -[5800.26 --> 5800.80] of doubt. -[5801.20 --> 5802.36] Question God's existence. -[5802.90 --> 5803.58] Let your faith -[5803.58 --> 5804.96] grow and wane -[5804.96 --> 5806.76] because it's -[5806.76 --> 5807.86] Jesus -[5807.86 --> 5808.92] that matters. -[5809.92 --> 5810.48] He cannot -[5810.48 --> 5811.14] disown -[5811.14 --> 5812.04] himself. -[5812.56 --> 5813.22] He will -[5813.22 --> 5813.76] remain -[5813.76 --> 5814.66] faithful. -[5815.38 --> 5815.84] And so we -[5815.84 --> 5816.34] as a church, -[5816.44 --> 5817.16] we want to be -[5817.16 --> 5817.86] a place where -[5817.86 --> 5818.44] it is okay -[5818.44 --> 5819.10] to doubt. -[5819.44 --> 5820.12] We want to be -[5820.12 --> 5820.70] a place where -[5820.70 --> 5821.16] it's okay -[5821.16 --> 5822.30] to ask hard questions -[5822.30 --> 5823.52] and to be skeptical -[5823.52 --> 5824.30] of the answers -[5824.30 --> 5824.96] that you were given. -[5825.72 --> 5826.32] I want you to -[5826.32 --> 5827.42] test and discern -[5827.42 --> 5828.68] and to engage. -[5829.54 --> 5830.34] That's what this -[5830.34 --> 5831.34] series has been about. -[5832.42 --> 5833.48] Perhaps not so much -[5833.48 --> 5834.34] answering all of -[5834.34 --> 5835.02] your questions, -[5835.42 --> 5836.62] perhaps not spoon -[5836.62 --> 5837.60] feeding you answers, -[5837.76 --> 5838.62] but hopefully in the -[5838.62 --> 5839.88] end, this series -[5839.88 --> 5840.56] has been about -[5840.56 --> 5842.00] helping us ask -[5842.00 --> 5842.76] good questions -[5842.76 --> 5843.74] and then helping -[5843.74 --> 5844.54] us together -[5844.54 --> 5846.32] find answers. -[5847.34 --> 5848.42] We're not scared -[5848.42 --> 5849.38] of hard questions -[5849.38 --> 5850.54] or hard topics, -[5850.70 --> 5851.54] but let's do it -[5851.54 --> 5851.88] together. -[5852.50 --> 5853.18] Let's do it in -[5853.18 --> 5853.64] community -[5853.64 --> 5855.44] and for unity -[5855.44 --> 5856.48] and then looking -[5856.48 --> 5857.62] to Jesus -[5857.62 --> 5858.46] and the way -[5858.46 --> 5859.08] of Jesus -[5859.08 --> 5860.52] through it all. -[5861.20 --> 5861.46] Amen? -[5863.22 --> 5863.70] Amen. -[5864.90 --> 5865.26] Why don't you -[5865.26 --> 5865.68] close this in prayer? -[5865.68 --> 5866.06] Let me pray. -[5867.44 --> 5868.26] Father in heaven, -[5868.42 --> 5869.22] we are grateful -[5869.22 --> 5870.08] that we have -[5870.08 --> 5870.88] this community -[5870.88 --> 5871.94] in which we live -[5871.94 --> 5873.44] in to discuss -[5873.44 --> 5874.50] these things. -[5874.82 --> 5875.60] Thank you for -[5875.60 --> 5876.28] the community -[5876.28 --> 5876.62] that you have -[5876.62 --> 5877.10] given us. -[5877.72 --> 5878.44] Thank you for -[5878.44 --> 5879.26] your Holy Spirit, -[5879.64 --> 5880.70] for the story -[5880.70 --> 5881.54] that you have -[5881.54 --> 5882.96] given the world -[5882.96 --> 5883.58] and that we -[5883.58 --> 5884.02] are part -[5884.02 --> 5884.66] of this story. -[5885.76 --> 5886.46] God, as we -[5886.46 --> 5887.22] move from this -[5887.22 --> 5888.02] place, both -[5888.02 --> 5889.58] today, but also -[5889.58 --> 5890.14] into the week, -[5890.22 --> 5890.70] into the month, -[5890.76 --> 5891.36] into the year, -[5891.96 --> 5892.54] into the rest -[5892.54 --> 5893.06] of our lives, -[5893.12 --> 5893.56] God, we just -[5893.56 --> 5894.10] pray that you -[5894.10 --> 5895.60] continue to move -[5895.60 --> 5896.06] in our hearts. -[5896.18 --> 5896.78] May your Spirit -[5896.78 --> 5898.02] stir within us -[5898.02 --> 5899.20] if we find -[5899.20 --> 5899.98] ourselves angry, -[5900.18 --> 5900.68] if we find -[5900.68 --> 5902.62] ourselves doubting. -[5903.18 --> 5903.92] May we bring -[5903.92 --> 5904.46] that to you. -[5904.64 --> 5905.10] May we bring -[5905.10 --> 5906.46] that to each -[5906.46 --> 5906.70] other. -[5906.82 --> 5907.54] May we ask -[5907.54 --> 5908.48] hard questions. -[5908.76 --> 5909.08] But God, -[5909.08 --> 5910.56] we know, -[5910.92 --> 5911.72] as Pastor Chris -[5911.72 --> 5912.22] just read, -[5912.96 --> 5914.22] that you remain -[5914.22 --> 5914.64] faithful. -[5915.76 --> 5916.12] And so we -[5916.12 --> 5916.56] thank you for -[5916.56 --> 5916.74] that. -[5916.82 --> 5917.50] May you continue -[5917.50 --> 5919.62] to fulfill -[5919.62 --> 5920.20] the promises -[5920.20 --> 5920.88] that you've -[5920.88 --> 5921.62] given to us, -[5921.74 --> 5922.40] promised to us, -[5922.46 --> 5923.18] and may we -[5923.18 --> 5925.30] continue to -[5925.30 --> 5926.36] seek you first -[5926.36 --> 5927.62] in all of -[5927.62 --> 5927.98] these things. -[5928.72 --> 5929.16] We pray this -[5929.16 --> 5929.54] in your name. -[5929.78 --> 5929.96] Amen. -[5929.96 --> 5930.04] Amen. -[5930.70 --> 5930.76] Amen. -[5930.76 --> 5931.20] Amen. -[5931.20 --> 5932.38] Amen. -[5932.38 --> 5932.48] Amen. -[5932.48 --> 5934.48] Amen. -[5934.48 --> 5934.54] Amen. -[5934.54 --> 5934.98] Amen. -[5934.98 --> 5935.48] Amen. -[5935.48 --> 5936.48] Amen. -[5936.48 --> 5936.54] Amen. -[5936.54 --> 5937.04] Amen. -[5937.04 --> 5937.54] Amen. -[5937.54 --> 5938.04] Amen. -[5938.04 --> 5938.54] Amen. -[5938.54 --> 5939.04] Amen. -[5939.04 --> 5948.88] Amen. -[5966.86 --> 5967.80] Amen. -[5967.80 --> 5968.34] Amen. -[5968.34 --> 5968.80] Amen. -[5968.80 --> 5970.80] won't stop the light -[5970.80 --> 5972.80] from getting through -[5972.80 --> 5974.80] we do -[5974.80 --> 5978.90] do you wish -[5978.90 --> 5980.80] that we could see -[5980.80 --> 5982.80] it all make you -[5982.80 --> 5986.80] we do -[5986.80 --> 5988.80] we do -[5992.80 --> 5994.80] his -[5994.80 --> 5996.80] ovation -[5996.80 --> 5998.80] growing -[5998.80 --> 6002.80] is a new -[6002.80 --> 6004.80] creation -[6004.80 --> 6006.80] coming -[6006.80 --> 6010.80] is the glory -[6010.80 --> 6012.80] of the Lord -[6012.80 --> 6014.80] to be the light -[6014.80 --> 6016.80] within our midst -[6016.80 --> 6022.80] is it good -[6022.80 --> 6024.80] and we remind -[6024.80 --> 6026.80] ourselves of -[6026.80 --> 6028.80] his -[6028.80 --> 6030.80] it is -[6030.80 --> 6034.80] is anyone -[6034.80 --> 6036.80] worthy -[6036.80 --> 6038.80] is anyone -[6038.80 --> 6040.80] worthy -[6040.80 --> 6042.80] is anyone -[6042.80 --> 6044.80] whole -[6044.80 --> 6046.80] is anyone -[6046.80 --> 6048.80] able to break the -[6048.80 --> 6050.80] seal and open -[6050.80 --> 6052.80] the stone -[6052.80 --> 6054.80] the lion of -[6054.80 --> 6056.80] judeau -[6056.80 --> 6058.80] who conquered the grave -[6058.80 --> 6060.80] he is David's root -[6060.80 --> 6062.80] and the lamb who died -[6062.80 --> 6064.80] to ransom the slave -[6064.80 --> 6068.80] is he worthy -[6068.80 --> 6070.80] is he worthy -[6070.80 --> 6072.80] is he worthy -[6072.80 --> 6074.80] is he worthy -[6074.80 --> 6078.80] of all blessing and honor and glory -[6078.80 --> 6080.80] is he worthy -[6080.80 --> 6082.80] and honor and glory -[6082.80 --> 6084.80] is he worthy -[6084.80 --> 6086.80] of his -[6086.80 --> 6088.80] he is -[6088.80 --> 6090.80] he is -[6090.80 --> 6092.80] does the father truly love us -[6092.80 --> 6094.80] he does -[6094.80 --> 6096.80] does the -[6096.80 --> 6098.80] does the -[6098.80 --> 6100.80] father truly love us -[6100.80 --> 6102.80] he does -[6102.80 --> 6104.80] does the -[6104.80 --> 6106.80] spirit move among us -[6106.80 --> 6108.80] he does -[6108.80 --> 6110.80] does the spirit move among us -[6110.80 --> 6112.80] he does -[6112.80 --> 6114.80] and does jesus our messiah -[6114.80 --> 6116.80] for forever those he loves -[6116.80 --> 6126.80] does our -[6126.80 --> 6128.80] does our god intend -[6128.80 --> 6130.80] to dwell -[6130.80 --> 6132.80] again with us -[6132.80 --> 6138.80] he does -[6138.80 --> 6148.72] Is anyone worthy? Is anyone whole? -[6150.02 --> 6156.08] Is anyone able to break the seal and open the stone? -[6156.94 --> 6164.08] The Lion of Judah, who conquered the grave, -[6164.08 --> 6172.10] He is David's root of the Lamb who died to ransom the same. -[6172.84 --> 6180.32] From every people and child, from every nation and time, -[6180.82 --> 6186.96] He has raised the kingdom and raised to God to reign with the Son. -[6186.96 --> 6194.98] Is He worthy? Is He worthy? -[6195.98 --> 6200.88] Of all blessing and honor and glory? -[6201.94 --> 6208.52] Is He worthy? Is He worthy? -[6208.52 --> 6212.38] Is He worthy? -[6212.38 --> 6217.34] Of His? -[6221.34 --> 6225.00] He is. -[6225.20 --> 6228.38] He is. -[6229.16 --> 6231.94] Is He worthy? -[6231.94 --> 6235.80] Is He worthy? -[6236.96 --> 6240.80] He is. -[6240.80 --> 6244.52] He is. -[6244.52 --> 6247.52] He is worthy. -[6248.52 --> 6251.48] He is worthy. -[6251.48 --> 6255.48] He is. -[6261.94 --> 6270.66] As you go, know that God Himself goes with you. -[6271.56 --> 6276.58] And go also with a reminder and invitation to join us tomorrow morning at 9 o'clock -[6276.58 --> 6283.90] or anytime thereafter as you roll in on a holiday Monday for pancake breakfast and fundraiser. -[6284.08 --> 6286.66] Go with the blessing of our God. -[6288.12 --> 6290.58] May God go before you to lead you. -[6290.58 --> 6293.68] May God go behind you to guard you. -[6294.54 --> 6296.70] May God go beneath you to support you. -[6297.00 --> 6299.40] And may God go beside you to befriend you. -[6299.86 --> 6301.68] Do not be afraid. -[6302.24 --> 6303.98] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[6304.12 --> 6305.40] Do not be afraid. -[6306.12 --> 6310.22] Go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[6311.36 --> 6311.88] Amen. -[6311.88 --> 6311.98] Amen. -[6320.58 --> 6348.06] The Lord bless you. -[6348.06 --> 6348.56] God bless you. -[6348.56 --> 6352.34] God bless you. -[6352.34 --> 6356.70] Make His face shine upon you. -[6356.70 --> 6359.90] Be gracious to you. -[6359.90 --> 6366.86] The Lord turn His face toward you. -[6366.86 --> 6370.94] And give you peace. -[6370.94 --> 6380.58] God bless you. -[6380.58 --> 6381.52] The Lord bless you. -[6381.52 --> 6382.52] The Lord bless you. -[6382.52 --> 6385.42] And heal you. -[6386.10 --> 6390.32] Make His face shine upon you. -[6390.32 --> 6393.04] And be gracious to you. -[6393.04 --> 6404.28] The Lord turn His face toward you and give me -[6404.28 --> 6423.02] Amen, Amen, Amen -[6423.04 --> 6438.04] Amen, Amen, Amen -[6438.04 --> 6449.04] The Lord bless you and keep you -[6449.04 --> 6453.04] Make His face shine upon you -[6453.68 --> 6457.04] Be gracious to you -[6457.04 --> 6464.04] The Lord turn His face toward you -[6464.04 --> 6468.04] And give me -[6468.04 --> 6486.04] Amen, Amen, Amen -[6486.04 --> 6501.04] Amen, Amen, Amen -[6501.04 --> 6521.20] May His favor be upon you -[6521.20 --> 6524.36] And a thousand generations -[6524.36 --> 6526.20] And your family -[6526.20 --> 6528.04] And your children -[6528.04 --> 6529.20] And their children -[6529.90 --> 6531.20] And their children -[6531.76 --> 6535.20] May His favor be upon you -[6535.84 --> 6539.14] And a thousand generations -[6539.14 --> 6541.20] And your family -[6541.20 --> 6542.20] And your children -[6542.20 --> 6543.20] And their children -[6543.20 --> 6544.20] And their children -[6544.20 --> 6546.20] And their children -[6546.20 --> 6550.20] May His presence go before you -[6550.20 --> 6551.20] And behind you -[6551.20 --> 6553.20] And beside you -[6553.20 --> 6555.20] All around you -[6555.20 --> 6557.20] Within you -[6557.20 --> 6559.20] He is with you -[6559.20 --> 6560.20] He is with you -[6560.20 --> 6561.20] He is with you -[6561.20 --> 6562.20] In the morning -[6562.20 --> 6564.20] In the evening -[6564.20 --> 6566.20] In your loving -[6566.20 --> 6567.20] And your glory -[6567.20 --> 6569.20] In your weeping -[6569.20 --> 6571.20] Rejoicing -[6571.20 --> 6572.20] ��도록 10 -[6572.20 --> 6580.20] Is it свет, Jesus? -[6580.20 --> 6582.20] He is with You -[6582.20 --> 6591.20] His moisturizing -[6591.20 --> 6599.50] Amen, Amen, Amen. -[6599.50 --> 6615.80] Amen, Amen, Amen. -[6615.80 --> 6630.30] Amen, amen, amen -[6630.30 --> 6646.16] Amen, amen, amen -[6646.16 --> 6650.16] Amen, amen -[6650.16 --> 6654.16] Amen, amen -[6654.16 --> 6657.90] You're the only answer to the darkness -[6657.90 --> 6663.16] You're the only right among the wrong -[6663.16 --> 6669.16] You're the only hope among the chaos -[6669.16 --> 6674.52] You are the voice that calls me on -[6674.52 --> 6678.06] Louder than every lie -[6678.06 --> 6680.82] My sword in every fight -[6680.82 --> 6685.60] The truth will chase away the night -[6685.60 --> 6689.98] Your name is power over darkness -[6689.98 --> 6693.02] Freedom for the captives -[6693.02 --> 6696.70] Mercy for the broken and the hopeless -[6696.70 --> 6700.92] Your name is faithful in the battle -[6700.92 --> 6703.70] Glory in the struggle -[6703.70 --> 6708.54] Mighty it won't let us down or fail us -[6708.54 --> 6710.70] Your name is power -[6710.70 --> 6716.08] Your name is power -[6716.08 --> 6718.08] Your name is power -[6718.08 --> 6724.08] I know it is written over the sun -[6724.08 --> 6726.38] Yeah -[6726.38 --> 6730.08] I know that the world will never fail -[6730.08 --> 6731.50] Never fail -[6731.50 --> 6735.88] Oh, I know that in every situation -[6735.88 --> 6738.14] Yes, I know -[6738.14 --> 6741.16] Speak the power to prevail -[6741.16 --> 6745.02] Louder than every lie -[6745.02 --> 6747.76] My sword in every fight -[6747.76 --> 6752.64] The truth will chase away the night -[6752.64 --> 6754.02] Your name is power -[6754.02 --> 6755.02] Your name is power -[6755.02 --> 6756.44] Power over darkness -[6756.44 --> 6759.26] Freedom for the captives -[6759.26 --> 6763.80] The years, mercy for the broken and the hopeless -[6763.80 --> 6767.96] Your name is safer in the battle -[6767.96 --> 6770.76] Glory in the struggle -[6770.76 --> 6775.22] Mighty in one better sound of failures -[6775.22 --> 6777.74] Your name is power -[6777.74 --> 6783.26] Your name is power -[6783.26 --> 6790.26] When you speak, you scatter darkness -[6790.84 --> 6793.26] Light arrives and heaven opens -[6793.86 --> 6798.26] Holy Spirit, let us hear it -[6798.98 --> 6801.26] When you speak, the church awakens -[6801.96 --> 6804.60] We believe the change is coming -[6804.60 --> 6810.26] Holy Spirit, let us hear it -[6810.26 --> 6812.26] When you speak, you scatter darkness -[6812.26 --> 6815.26] Light arrives and heaven opens -[6815.26 --> 6820.26] Holy Spirit, let us hear it -[6820.26 --> 6823.26] When you speak, the church awakens -[6823.26 --> 6826.26] We believe the change is coming -[6826.26 --> 6832.26] Holy Spirit, let us hear it -[6832.26 --> 6837.26] Your name is power over darkness -[6837.26 --> 6840.26] Freedom for the captains -[6840.26 --> 6844.26] Larky for the broken and the hopeless -[6844.26 --> 6848.26] Your name is faithful in the battle -[6848.26 --> 6850.26] Glory in the struggle -[6850.26 --> 6855.26] Mighty in one better sound of failures -[6855.26 --> 6859.26] Your name is power over darkness -[6859.26 --> 6861.26] Over darkness -[6861.26 --> 6862.26] Your name is power over darkness -[6862.26 --> 6864.26] Your name is power -[6864.26 --> 6866.26] In the chaos -[6866.26 --> 6868.26] Your name is power -[6868.26 --> 6870.26] Your name is power -[6870.26 --> 6877.26] People go -[6877.26 --> 6895.26] People go -[6895.26 --> 6896.26] go -[6896.26 --> 6916.52] I will diff --git a/Sunday Worship April 9, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship April 9, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 5c3e5f3b509c5410a89291ae532699a51f104490..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship April 9, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,118 +0,0 @@ -• The crucifixion of Jesus Christ -• Jesus' death on the cross -• The burial of Jesus in a grave -• The resurrection of Jesus from the dead -• The significance of Sunday as a day of redemption and hope -• Praise and worship to God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit -• The gospel message that shall not fade or kneel -• The freedom and salvation brought by Jesus Christ's resurrection -• Introduction to Resurrection Sunday worship -• Invitation to connect with the church and learn more about Emanuel -• Gathering in God's presence for singing, prayer, praise, and hearing -• Easter anthem: "Christ is risen" -• Welcome from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness -• Invitation to welcome others into worship -• Multiple repetitions of amen for a total of 34 times -• Praise and worship song with repeated "Alleluia" -• Invitation to place flowers in vases at the front of the congregation -• Recitation of a creed or statement of faith -• Prayer asking for forgiveness, resurrection, and eternal life -• Discussion of Jesus Christ's victory over death and sin -• The congregation prays and sings hymns -• A sacrament of baptism is administered to a child named Gus -• The speaker explains that the water used in baptism does not wash away original sin or save the child, but rather symbolizes the life, death, resurrection, and exaltation of Jesus -• The baptism is seen as a sign of the covenant between God and his people, with the child being received as a member of the covenant community -• Parents of the child are asked questions before God and his people to affirm their faith and commitment to raise the child in the Christian faith -• Baptism ceremony for Gus -• Symbolic washing of Gus with water to represent forgiveness and new life in God -• Invitation for congregation to promise love, support, and teaching of the gospel to the Howling family, including Gus -• Prayer of blessing over Gus and his family -• Presentation of a gift or memento to Gus by Seth -• Introduction to a song about Jesus and His sacrifice -• Singing "Because He Lives" as a group -• Reflection on life, death, and eternity -• Discussion of war in Ukraine and its impact on civilians -• Announcement of donations for Ukraine response -• World Renew is providing aid to displaced people within Ukraine, working with other agencies and churches -• Request for generosity from listeners to support this effort -• Upcoming announcements and events at the church, including a full council meeting and welcome of new staff member Maria Nguyen -• Easter morning worship service focuses on John 20:24-31 -• Prayer request for focus on today, forgiveness of debts, and daily bread -• Thomas' skepticism about Jesus' resurrection -• Jesus appears to Thomas and proves his identity -• The significance of the empty tomb and the impact of the resurrection on history -• The changing nature of faith and fact in modern society, with blurred categories between the two -• The speaker reflects on the human desire for transcendence and a sense of something greater than oneself. -• Skepticism is a natural response to this longing, pulling us back down to earth. -• The story of Thomas doubting Jesus' resurrection serves as an example of skepticism. -• C.S. Lewis's concept of doubt and faith in "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" is referenced. -• The importance of relationships and trust in believing others is discussed. -• Logic and critical thinking are presented as tools to evaluate evidence and claims. -• The possibility that our assumptions about truth and reality may be incomplete or inaccurate. -• The importance of assuming people you know to be truthful and trusting them -• Thomas' struggle with believing in Jesus' resurrection without seeing proof -• The concept that faith is fraught and belief doesn't come easily, but rather while doubting -• The idea that we're all in a similar predicament as Thomas, struggling with faith and doubt -• The notion that faith is not just for Christians, but a human condition that affects everyone -• Doubt and faith are intertwined -• The resurrection of Jesus bursts through existential space -• Transcendence and the resurrection disrupt neat and organized pictures of reality -• Faith cannot be confined to propositional boxes, just like Jesus won't be confined to a grave -• Thomas' need for proof falls away when he encounters Jesus, revealing true worship -• Easter is about stirring, affect, and transformation, not just proving God's power over sin and death -• The speaker describes a vision where Jesus appears to them -• The historical evidence for Jesus' resurrection is discussed and its significance emphasized -• The importance of faith and belief in the face of doubt is highlighted -• Jesus' existence and actions are established as historical fact, independent of individual beliefs or feelings -• Scripture (likely John 20) is referenced to support the idea that Jesus performed many signs and miracles to demonstrate his divinity. -• The gospel is written and it's about Jesus living the life we should have lived and dying the death we deserve -• Jesus was raised victorious over sin and death because God's love for us is greater than His wrath against sin -• The tomb is empty, indicating God's power to bring new life -• In a culture of doubt and deconstruction, it's essential to "doubt your doubts" by treating them equally with professions of faith -• Worship and response to doubt should be directed towards Jesus, rather than seeking proofs or rational answers -• The speaker's heart is full of devotion. -• Doubts and questions are acknowledged as a natural part of faith. -• Worship, word, and sacrament are presented as ways to test doubts. -• Jesus' sacrifice and the Eucharist (Lord's Supper) are remembered. -• The importance of remembrance and proclamation of Christ's death until his return is emphasized. -• The Apostles' Creed -• The power of Jesus Christ's resurrection and its impact on believers -• Eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ -• The significance of breaking bread in faith, knowing the risen Christ among us -• Death being defeated by Christ's victory over the grave -• The congregation is invited to participate in communion, with the elders leading the process. -• Those who cannot come forward but want to receive the bread and juice can indicate to the ushers, who will serve them in their seats. -• As people come forward, they will be offered bread and juice, accompanied by statements such as "the body of Christ given for you" or "the blood of Christ shed for you". -• The congregation is instructed to pass the elements to each other, saying the same statement as they pass. -• Receiving the first table -• Big circle and movement of Lena and Wes -• The body of Christ given for you, with repeated mentions of "amen" -• Eating and remembering, followed by more repetitions of "amen" -• The blood of Christ shed for you, mentioned multiple times -• Jesus as the bread of life, offering eternal life and resurrection -• Invitations to come to the altar and receive forgiveness through Jesus -• Praise and worship of Jesus as Lord -• Hallelujah and singing praises -• Christ's resurrection and victory -• Forgiveness through the blood of Jesus -• Invitation to come to the altar for forgiveness -• Musically expressing gratitude and redemption -• Story of Jesus' crucifixion and sacrifice -• Redemption from sin and its curse -• Praise and honor to God for salvation -• Resurrection and empty tomb -• References to biblical themes and imagery -• The lion and lamb symbolism -• Worship and praise to God -• Jesus Christ as Savior and King -• Salvation and redemption through faith -• Overcoming evil and sin with God's power -• Assurance of eternal life with God -• Encouragement for believers to live out their faith -• Invitation to community and celebration -• Multipurpose room painting -• Stained glass windows -• Invitation to connect and ask questions after worship service -• Blessing prayer for God's presence in daily life -• Praise and thanksgiving for Jesus, the Redeemer and Lamb of God -• Thankfulness for God's gift of forgiveness and redemption \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship April 9, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship April 9, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c7c0f0d6d2f3f82e0e4e6e2f43eb306a4c0fbc82..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship April 9, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2028 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.72] And He shed His blood to set us free -[6.72 --> 12.48] As the nails waiting in the sky were dark -[12.48 --> 18.90] The redemption of the world was on His heart -[18.90 --> 24.18] Friday's good, good Sunday is coming -[24.18 --> 30.36] Don't lose hope, good Sunday is coming -[30.36 --> 36.34] Devil, you're done, you better start running -[36.34 --> 42.38] Friday's good, good Sunday is coming -[42.38 --> 54.42] Then He breathed His last and bowed His head -[54.42 --> 60.36] The Son of God and men were dead -[60.36 --> 66.68] With bloody hands, tears on their face -[66.68 --> 72.78] They laid Him down inside that grave -[72.78 --> 75.82] But that wasn't the end -[75.82 --> 78.92] That wasn't the end -[78.92 --> 81.40] That wasn't the end -[81.40 --> 84.38] Let me tell you what happened next -[84.38 --> 90.40] The women came before the dawn -[90.40 --> 96.24] To find that stone already gone -[96.24 --> 100.44] When they looked inside -[100.44 --> 102.44] The angels said -[102.44 --> 107.98] Why are you looking for the living among the dead? -[108.04 --> 110.50] He's alive, He's alive -[110.50 --> 113.50] Hallelujah, He's alive -[113.50 --> 116.54] Give Him praise, lift Him high -[116.54 --> 119.50] Hallelujah, He's alive -[119.50 --> 122.52] He's alive, He's alive -[122.52 --> 125.50] Hallelujah, He's alive -[125.50 --> 128.52] Give Him praise, lift Him high -[128.52 --> 132.26] Hallelujah, He's alive -[132.26 --> 138.04] Hallelujah, Hallelujah -[138.04 --> 144.10] Don't lose hope, good Sunday is coming -[144.10 --> 150.10] Hallelujah, Hallelujah -[150.10 --> 154.10] Hallelujah, Hallelujah -[154.12 --> 162.32] Now Jesus reigns upon the throne -[162.32 --> 168.26] Our heaven sings to Him alone -[168.26 --> 171.28] We watch and wait -[171.28 --> 174.26] Like a bride for a groom -[174.26 --> 177.26] Oh, church arise -[177.26 --> 180.26] He's coming soon -[180.26 --> 181.08] Yes, He's coming soon -[181.08 --> 181.60] After the death ends -[181.60 --> 186.24] Amen -[186.26 --> 190.26] Hopefully, he may have a room -[190.26 --> 192.26] Although, at the time of his death -[192.26 --> 194.24] I can pray -[194.24 --> 195.20] Like a bride -[195.20 --> 195.26] 今日 take in poetry -[195.26 --> 197.26] If there are a room -[197.26 --> 198.26] If there are any members -[198.26 --> 200.14] Anything Terry -[200.14 --> 201.26] That can pause -[201.26 --> 202.26] To stand for the clairement -[202.26 --> 203.40] There are end -[203.40 --> 204.32] 情况 -[204.32 --> 209.44] In the darkness we were waiting -[209.44 --> 212.94] Without hope, without light -[212.94 --> 216.40] Till from heaven you came running -[216.40 --> 220.04] There was mercy in your eyes -[220.04 --> 223.54] To fulfill the law and promise -[223.54 --> 226.84] To a virgin came the word -[226.84 --> 230.30] From a throne of endless glory -[230.30 --> 233.86] To a cradle in the dirt -[233.86 --> 243.14] Praise the Father -[243.14 --> 246.24] Praise the Son -[246.24 --> 250.24] Praise the Spirit -[250.24 --> 253.16] Three in one -[253.16 --> 257.16] God of glory -[257.16 --> 259.88] Majesty -[259.88 --> 263.52] Praise forever -[263.52 --> 265.66] To your kingdom -[265.66 --> 267.90] King -[267.90 --> 282.44] To reveal the kingdom come -[282.44 --> 286.16] And to rest out the lost -[286.16 --> 289.50] To redeem the whole creation -[289.50 --> 293.04] You did not spice the cross -[293.04 --> 296.42] For even in your suffering -[296.42 --> 299.98] You saw to the other side -[299.98 --> 303.40] Knowing this is our salvation -[303.40 --> 304.78] Jesus for our sake -[304.78 --> 305.90] Jesus for our sake -[305.90 --> 307.78] You died -[307.78 --> 316.16] Praise the Father -[316.16 --> 319.46] Praise the Son -[319.46 --> 323.14] Praise the Spirit -[323.14 --> 326.56] Three in one -[326.56 --> 327.56] God of glory -[327.56 --> 330.34] God of glory -[330.34 --> 330.94] God of glory -[330.94 --> 331.94] God of glory -[331.94 --> 332.94] Majesty -[332.94 --> 336.62] Praise forever -[336.62 --> 337.94] To the King -[337.94 --> 349.32] People Christ -[349.32 --> 354.62] And the own -[354.72 --> 354.92] White -[354.92 --> 357.26] K -[357.26 --> 370.44] its breath to that stone for the lamb and the dead rose from their tools and the -[370.44 --> 382.16] angels stood in awe the souls of the father are restored the church of Christ -[382.16 --> 390.40] was born then the spirit lit the flame now this gospel -[390.40 --> 399.04] shall not kneel and shall not fade and by his blood and in his name in his freedom -[399.04 --> 407.92] I am free for the love of Jesus Christ who has resurrected me -[412.16 --> 433.40] praise the father praise the son praise the spirit three in one God of glory majesty -[433.40 --> 449.40] praise forever to the king of kings praise forever to the king of kings -[449.40 --> 450.80] praise the lord Lord -[450.80 --> 452.88] praise the king of kings -[452.88 --> 454.94] praise the king of kings -[455.40 --> 457.10] choir justice -[457.10 --> 458.36] amen -[458.36 --> 458.80] only inram -[461.48 --> 462.32] �� -[462.32 --> 463.40] 率 -[463.40 --> 493.38] Thank you. -[493.40 --> 523.38] Thank you. -[523.40 --> 529.40] Oh, he's alive. -[530.74 --> 533.14] He lives. -[534.02 --> 539.38] All honor and power are his. -[539.38 --> 543.38] All glory forever. -[544.38 --> 544.96] Amen. -[547.96 --> 551.38] Jesus lives. -[551.38 --> 556.08] Hear the shackles breaking free. -[556.48 --> 559.54] Hear the song of the redeemed. -[559.96 --> 561.26] He is moving. -[561.60 --> 562.80] He is moving. -[563.26 --> 564.62] He's alive. -[565.16 --> 567.74] Oh, so take this freedom. -[568.22 --> 569.44] Take this love. -[569.84 --> 572.72] Can you feel it rising up? -[572.72 --> 574.42] He's here. -[574.72 --> 575.98] He's here. -[576.32 --> 577.86] He's alive. -[579.72 --> 582.38] Oh, he lives. -[583.38 --> 588.30] All honor and power are his. -[588.30 --> 592.80] All glory forever. -[593.30 --> 594.18] Amen. -[596.18 --> 601.60] Jesus, our grace. -[602.14 --> 608.04] Oh, honor and power are his. -[608.04 --> 612.42] All glory forever. -[614.42 --> 615.84] Good morning. -[617.84 --> 619.44] Christ is risen. -[620.06 --> 621.38] He is risen indeed. -[621.72 --> 622.98] Oh, good practice, Ron. -[623.02 --> 625.02] We're going to do that again in just a moment, so be ready. -[625.90 --> 628.04] Welcome to worship. -[628.04 --> 628.94] My name is Chris. -[629.14 --> 639.92] I'm one of the pastors here at Emanuel, and it is my privilege and pleasure to welcome you into worship together this morning. -[640.40 --> 645.64] This is one of my, perhaps even my absolute favorite Sunday of the year. -[645.74 --> 648.20] I love Resurrection Sunday. -[648.20 --> 651.52] I love the power of Jesus on full display. -[651.72 --> 657.92] I love the chance for the church to sing with boldness and clarity the truth of the gospel. -[658.44 --> 661.34] I love that we get to spend that time together. -[662.04 --> 672.96] As we worship this morning, we come to the table to taste and see the goodness of God, and we will participate together in the baptism of Gus, which we're really excited about. -[672.96 --> 681.56] And so if you are visiting with us this morning and would like to hear more about us, there's a card in your seats that says Connect. -[682.08 --> 683.52] There's a QR code on it. -[683.58 --> 689.68] You can fill the card out and put it in the bags when they come around, or you can scan the QR code and do it that way. -[690.04 --> 692.52] That QR code is also variously throughout the building. -[692.86 --> 695.96] We'd love to hear from you and connect with you. -[696.54 --> 701.64] As we gather for worship, we gather in the presence of our God. -[701.64 --> 703.42] We're going to sing and we're going to pray. -[703.58 --> 705.38] We're going to praise and we're going to hear. -[705.56 --> 713.06] And so I'm going to invite you, as you are able to stand, that we might come into God's presence together. -[716.52 --> 720.36] We're going to begin with our Easter anthem. -[721.02 --> 722.76] Christ is risen. -[722.76 --> 725.12] He is risen indeed. -[725.44 --> 727.32] Christ is risen. -[727.98 --> 728.70] Hallelujah. -[729.46 --> 730.94] He is risen indeed. -[730.94 --> 733.24] Amen and amen. -[733.40 --> 735.94] Receive the greeting of our God. -[737.30 --> 746.98] Grace and peace to you from him who is and who was, from him who is to come, and from the seven spirits before his throne, -[746.98 --> 754.40] and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, the ruler and the kings of the earth. -[755.28 --> 755.92] Amen. -[755.92 --> 756.00] Amen. -[756.80 --> 762.00] I'm going to invite you to turn to those around you and welcome them on this Easter Sunday into worship. -[762.00 --> 762.36] Amen. -[762.36 --> 762.50] Amen. -[762.50 --> 762.60] Amen. -[762.60 --> 763.00] Amen. -[763.00 --> 763.10] Amen. -[763.10 --> 763.16] Amen. -[763.16 --> 763.20] Amen. -[785.92 --> 791.12] Amen. -[798.08 --> 798.40] Amen. -[798.40 --> 828.38] Thank you. -[828.40 --> 858.38] Thank you. -[858.40 --> 860.40] Thank you. -[888.40 --> 890.40] Thank you. -[890.40 --> 892.40] Thank you. -[892.40 --> 894.40] Thank you. -[894.40 --> 896.40] Thank you. -[896.40 --> 898.40] Thank you. -[898.40 --> 900.40] Thank you. -[900.40 --> 902.40] Thank you. -[902.40 --> 904.40] Thank you. -[904.40 --> 906.40] Thank you. -[906.40 --> 908.40] Thank you. -[908.40 --> 910.40] Thank you. -[910.40 --> 912.40] Thank you. -[912.40 --> 914.40] Thank you. -[914.40 --> 916.40] Thank you. -[916.40 --> 918.40] Thank you. -[918.40 --> 920.40] Amen. -[920.40 --> 922.40] Thank you. -[922.40 --> 924.40] Thank you. -[924.40 --> 926.40] Alleluia. -[926.96 --> 931.24] Where all death is now your sting, -[931.76 --> 935.90] Alleluia. -[936.38 --> 940.68] Once he died our souls to save, -[941.24 --> 945.32] Alleluia. -[945.32 --> 950.40] Where your victory, O great, -[950.40 --> 955.40] Alleluia. -[957.04 --> 961.82] So we know where Christ has led, -[962.20 --> 966.34] Alleluia. -[966.96 --> 971.52] Following our exalted care, -[971.52 --> 975.52] Alleluia. -[975.52 --> 980.52] May I give thy heavenly rise, -[981.52 --> 985.76] Alleluia. -[986.36 --> 990.52] Hearts across the great the sky, -[991.38 --> 995.52] Alleluia. -[995.52 --> 1002.52] Hail the Lord of earth and heaven, -[1002.52 --> 1006.52] Alleluia. -[1006.52 --> 1012.52] Praise to you by hope we give, -[1012.52 --> 1017.52] Alleluia. -[1017.52 --> 1022.52] Risen Christ triumphed now, -[1022.52 --> 1027.52] Alleluia. -[1027.52 --> 1032.52] Every need to you shall bow, -[1032.52 --> 1036.52] Alleluia. -[1036.52 --> 1041.52] Alleluia. -[1041.52 --> 1042.52] Alleluia. -[1042.52 --> 1043.52] Alleluia. -[1043.52 --> 1044.52] Alleluia. -[1044.52 --> 1045.52] Alleluia. -[1045.52 --> 1048.52] I know that many of you have some flowers in your hands this morning. -[1048.52 --> 1050.52] And as we sing our next song, -[1050.52 --> 1054.52] We welcome you to come up and put those in the vases up at the front here. -[1054.52 --> 1055.52] Let's hear. -[1058.52 --> 1079.14] The song has been called The電視 -[1079.14 --> 1085.60] All creating one, God Almighty. -[1088.42 --> 1099.92] Through your Holy Spirit, conceiving Christ the Son, Jesus our Savior. -[1099.92 --> 1116.90] I believe in God our Father, I believe in Christ the Son, I believe in the Holy Spirit, our God is three in one. -[1116.90 --> 1130.30] I believe in the resurrection, that we will rise again, for I believe in the name of Jesus. -[1130.30 --> 1132.30] Amen. -[1144.30 --> 1157.48] Our judge and our defense, suffered and crucified, forgiveness is in you. -[1157.48 --> 1171.38] I descended into darkness, you rose in glorious light, forever seated high. -[1172.68 --> 1187.28] I believe in God our Father, I believe in Christ the Son, I believe in the Holy Spirit, our God is three in one. -[1187.48 --> 1200.60] I believe in the resurrection, that we will rise again, for I believe in the name of Jesus. -[1200.60 --> 1202.60] I believe in Jesus. -[1202.60 --> 1206.84] I believe in cat أنit he rose and revival, I believe in Jesus. -[1207.06 --> 1208.02] I believe in Hoo, Jesus, Jesus, His name is one. -[1208.46 --> 1225.96] I believe in your Holy Spirit, Father the Son, I believe in the Father, that Jesus Christ is one. -[1225.96 --> 1235.96] I believe in you -[1235.96 --> 1242.96] I believe you rose again -[1242.96 --> 1253.96] I believe that Jesus Christ is born -[1255.96 --> 1262.96] I believe in life eternal -[1262.96 --> 1265.96] I believe in the virgin birth -[1265.96 --> 1269.96] I believe in the saints communion -[1269.96 --> 1272.96] And in your holy church -[1272.96 --> 1275.96] I believe in the resurrection -[1275.96 --> 1279.96] When Jesus comes again -[1279.96 --> 1286.96] For I believe in the name of Jesus -[1286.96 --> 1289.96] I believe in God our Father -[1289.96 --> 1292.96] I believe in Christ the Son -[1292.96 --> 1296.96] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[1296.96 --> 1299.96] Our God is free in one -[1299.96 --> 1302.96] I believe in the resurrection -[1302.96 --> 1305.96] That we will rise again -[1305.96 --> 1312.96] For I believe in the name of Jesus -[1312.96 --> 1320.96] For I believe in the name of Jesus -[1320.96 --> 1326.96] Please pray with me -[1326.96 --> 1330.96] Glory to you, O God -[1330.96 --> 1333.96] On this day you won the victory over death -[1333.96 --> 1336.96] Raising Jesus from the grave -[1336.96 --> 1338.96] And giving us eternal life -[1338.96 --> 1341.96] Glory to you, O Christ -[1341.96 --> 1343.96] For us and for our salvation -[1343.96 --> 1345.96] You overcame death -[1345.96 --> 1348.96] And opened the gate to everlasting life -[1348.96 --> 1351.96] Glory to you, O Holy Spirit -[1351.96 --> 1354.96] You lead us into the truth -[1354.96 --> 1356.96] And bring us to new life -[1356.96 --> 1359.96] Glory to you, O blessed Trinity -[1359.96 --> 1361.96] Now and forever -[1361.96 --> 1363.96] Amen -[1363.96 --> 1380.96] I'm blessed my life -[1380.96 --> 1384.96] To Calvary -[1384.96 --> 1388.96] Where Jesus came -[1388.96 --> 1392.96] And died for me -[1392.96 --> 1396.96] I say His wounds -[1396.96 --> 1398.96] His hands -[1398.96 --> 1399.96] His feet -[1399.96 --> 1402.96] My Savior -[1402.96 --> 1407.96] That cursed tree -[1407.96 --> 1413.96] His body -[1413.96 --> 1414.96] Now -[1414.96 --> 1418.96] And drenched in tears -[1418.96 --> 1422.96] He laid down -[1422.96 --> 1425.96] He chose us to -[1425.96 --> 1428.96] He entered sea -[1428.96 --> 1432.96] By heavy storm -[1432.96 --> 1436.96] Messiah still -[1436.96 --> 1439.96] And of the Lord -[1439.96 --> 1445.96] Our God -[1445.96 --> 1446.96] O praise the name -[1446.96 --> 1452.96] Of the Lord our God -[1452.96 --> 1456.96] O praise His name -[1456.96 --> 1460.96] Forevermore -[1460.96 --> 1474.96] For endless days we will sing your praise, O Lord, O Lord our God. -[1474.96 --> 1492.96] Then on earth earth and break the tongue, the Son of God flows again. -[1492.96 --> 1507.96] O trampled death, where is your sin? The angels roar for Christ our King. -[1507.96 --> 1524.96] O praise the name of the Lord our God, O praise His name forevermore. -[1524.96 --> 1540.34] For endless days we will sing your praise, O Lord, O Lord our God. -[1540.34 --> 1550.56] He shall return in robes of white. -[1550.56 --> 1557.80] The blazing sun shall pierce the light. -[1557.80 --> 1565.22] And I will rise among the saints. -[1565.70 --> 1572.72] My peace transfers on Jesus' face. -[1587.80 --> 1617.78] The blazing sun shall pierce the light. -[1617.80 --> 1633.80] The blazing sun shall pierce the light. -[1633.80 --> 1646.80] O praise the name of the Lord our God, O praise His name forevermore. -[1646.80 --> 1659.80] For endless days we will sing your praise, O Lord, O Lord our God. -[1659.80 --> 1661.80] O praise His name forevermore. -[1661.80 --> 1674.80] O praise His name forevermore. -[1674.80 --> 1676.80] O praise His name forevermore. -[1676.80 --> 1677.80] And I will rise among the saints. -[1677.80 --> 1678.80] O praise His name forevermore. -[1678.80 --> 1685.80] And I will rise above the Lord our God, O Lord, O Lord our God. -[1685.80 --> 1694.80] Oh Lord, oh Lord our God -[1694.80 --> 1702.80] Oh Lord, oh Lord our God -[1702.80 --> 1706.30] You may have a seat. -[1715.80 --> 1736.80] It is our great privilege together this morning to administer and participate in the sacrament of baptism to one of the little ones among us to Gus this morning. -[1736.80 --> 1747.94] We do not believe as we come to this water that there's anything magical about the water that we apply to the child. -[1748.90 --> 1752.64] The water does not wash away original sin or save the child. -[1753.18 --> 1759.04] Only the life, death, resurrection, and exaltation of Jesus does that. -[1759.04 --> 1773.22] And we believe that Gus, this child, is sinful by nature and we believe that the promises of God for forgiveness and life in the Holy Spirit are offered to him. -[1774.28 --> 1782.60] We don't baptize babies out of superstition or even tradition, though we do have the weight of church history behind us, -[1782.98 --> 1788.30] or because we like cute babies, even though that is a good thing. -[1788.30 --> 1799.96] We baptize infants because we believe that they are covenant children and therefore should receive the sign of baptism, the sign of the covenant. -[1800.92 --> 1809.02] And so while this isn't magical, it is a spiritual mystery that we live into together. -[1810.16 --> 1813.64] In Genesis 15, God made a covenant with Abraham. -[1813.64 --> 1819.00] This covenant was sealed with the sign of circumcision in Genesis 17. -[1819.86 --> 1822.38] And God promised to bless Abraham. -[1823.02 --> 1827.12] For Abraham, this meant two things in particular. -[1828.04 --> 1831.76] One, it meant offspring, and two, it meant land. -[1832.80 --> 1840.82] But at the heart of this covenant was God's promise that he would be a God to Abraham and his children. -[1840.82 --> 1848.74] And God cut a covenant into Israel's flesh, carving out a people for himself. -[1849.58 --> 1858.40] And they would be a light on the path home for humanity, for the expression of God's relationship to them. -[1858.94 --> 1865.74] And in the fullness of time, God sent his only son, Jesus, to be our Savior. -[1865.74 --> 1871.58] And in his death on the cross, our old self is dead and buried. -[1871.96 --> 1878.04] And in his resurrection, we rise to a new life and we look forward to a new creation. -[1878.04 --> 1885.92] When we are baptized in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, -[1886.22 --> 1891.22] the triune God seals and promises our adoption as his children. -[1891.72 --> 1895.04] And he writes his name invisibly on our foreheads. -[1896.38 --> 1897.64] We read in Scripture, -[1897.64 --> 1918.56] By baptism, we recognize a new identity in Jesus Christ. -[1918.56 --> 1927.34] And so we come to administer this sacrament of baptism to Gus today with the weight of church history -[1927.34 --> 1932.90] to encourage us and the example of redemptive history to confirm our practice. -[1933.20 --> 1936.72] We baptize in obedience to Christ's command. -[1938.00 --> 1944.50] The sacrament that we are about to administer is a sign of inclusion into the covenant community -[1944.50 --> 1947.08] as circumcision was. -[1947.70 --> 1952.78] And the water that we are about to pour over is a sign of cleansing from sin -[1952.78 --> 1956.84] as the sprinkled blood of bulls and goats in the Old Testament was. -[1958.34 --> 1962.94] And we pray that Gus will take advantage of all his covenant privileges, -[1962.94 --> 1966.42] that he will acknowledge the Lord all the days of his life, -[1966.66 --> 1970.42] and that by faith he will make these promises his own. -[1970.42 --> 1977.34] So, Daniel and Ismay, I'm going to invite you and your family to come on up to the front. -[1991.42 --> 1992.62] Just move right over. -[1992.62 --> 1993.22] Yeah. -[1993.22 --> 2002.06] Since you are presenting Gus for baptism, -[2002.24 --> 2006.44] we're going to ask you the following questions before God and his people. -[2010.78 --> 2011.46] First, -[2012.18 --> 2015.10] do you believe that your children, -[2015.10 --> 2017.10] though sinful by nature, -[2017.82 --> 2021.26] are received by God in Christ as members of the covenant -[2021.26 --> 2023.68] and therefore ought to be baptized? -[2024.52 --> 2025.36] And second, -[2025.80 --> 2028.96] do you promise in reliance on the Holy Spirit -[2028.96 --> 2031.54] and with the help of the Christian community -[2031.54 --> 2033.44] to do all in your power -[2033.44 --> 2035.40] to instruct Gus -[2035.40 --> 2037.20] and all your children -[2037.20 --> 2038.68] in the Christian faith -[2038.68 --> 2041.50] and to lead them by your example -[2041.50 --> 2044.46] into the life of Christian discipleship? -[2045.84 --> 2047.52] Daniel and Ismay, -[2047.70 --> 2048.54] what is your answer? -[2048.54 --> 2049.26] Amen. -[2054.08 --> 2055.26] Our Lord Jesus said, -[2055.44 --> 2057.00] let the little children come to me -[2057.00 --> 2058.26] and do not hinder them -[2058.26 --> 2061.70] for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. -[2061.82 --> 2062.20] And so, -[2062.32 --> 2064.54] if you are a child among us, -[2064.92 --> 2066.34] we want to invite you to come -[2066.34 --> 2067.88] and just grab a seat right here -[2067.88 --> 2068.98] on the floor -[2068.98 --> 2070.04] in the splash zone -[2070.04 --> 2073.98] that you might also see more closely -[2073.98 --> 2076.06] what is happening here. -[2076.06 --> 2077.34] Ruby, -[2077.44 --> 2077.82] why don't you be, -[2077.88 --> 2078.26] excellent, -[2078.40 --> 2078.96] great example. -[2079.20 --> 2079.90] Right by Ruby, -[2080.00 --> 2080.26] guys. -[2098.26 --> 2099.14] All right. -[2099.14 --> 2100.56] So, -[2100.64 --> 2101.26] in just a moment, -[2101.36 --> 2102.68] we're going to take this water -[2102.68 --> 2105.84] and we're going to put it on Gus's head -[2105.84 --> 2107.14] and we're going to offer that -[2107.14 --> 2108.54] as a symbol, -[2108.74 --> 2110.24] as a sign and a seal, -[2110.60 --> 2111.26] a promise -[2111.26 --> 2115.88] that when God offers forgiveness to us, -[2116.02 --> 2117.08] He washes us -[2117.08 --> 2119.02] and makes us clean. -[2119.80 --> 2120.32] Do you want to see? -[2120.46 --> 2121.60] There's just a little water in there. -[2123.68 --> 2124.04] Beautiful. -[2126.82 --> 2127.24] All right. -[2127.28 --> 2128.04] You want to come up here? -[2128.04 --> 2128.10] All right. -[2128.10 --> 2128.14] All right. -[2129.14 --> 2131.12] It is an exciting day. -[2131.20 --> 2131.66] Am I right? -[2134.60 --> 2134.96] Emil? -[2138.34 --> 2138.82] Gus, -[2139.22 --> 2139.78] Emil, -[2140.16 --> 2140.74] howling. -[2141.62 --> 2142.54] I baptize you -[2142.54 --> 2143.60] in the name of the Father -[2143.60 --> 2146.54] and of the Son -[2146.54 --> 2149.50] and of the Holy Spirit. -[2151.26 --> 2151.74] Amen. -[2151.74 --> 2151.84] Amen. -[2157.54 --> 2159.08] Do you want that for your arm? -[2159.14 --> 2159.28] God? -[2165.82 --> 2168.40] Even as we have extended God's promise -[2168.40 --> 2169.98] to the Howling family -[2169.98 --> 2171.78] and to Gus here, -[2171.78 --> 2172.88] we have an opportunity -[2172.88 --> 2174.04] as a church family -[2174.04 --> 2176.78] to also make promise to them. -[2177.60 --> 2177.78] And so, -[2177.86 --> 2178.76] I'm going to ask you, -[2179.00 --> 2179.30] congregation, -[2179.60 --> 2180.02] a question -[2180.02 --> 2181.60] and then invite you to respond -[2181.60 --> 2183.44] as you see on the screen. -[2183.44 --> 2184.70] Do you, -[2184.70 --> 2186.22] Langley, -[2186.34 --> 2186.72] Emmanuel, -[2186.72 --> 2188.18] friends and family -[2188.18 --> 2189.36] of Daniel and Ismay -[2189.36 --> 2190.10] and of Gus, -[2190.26 --> 2192.68] do you promise to love, -[2192.94 --> 2193.30] encourage, -[2193.54 --> 2194.34] and support -[2194.34 --> 2195.78] Daniel and Ismay, -[2195.90 --> 2196.22] Olivia, -[2196.58 --> 2196.94] Abe, -[2197.24 --> 2197.64] Daphne, -[2197.74 --> 2198.62] and now Gus -[2198.62 --> 2200.58] by teaching the gospel -[2200.58 --> 2201.52] of God's love, -[2202.08 --> 2203.18] by being an example -[2203.18 --> 2204.30] of Christian faith -[2204.30 --> 2205.26] and character, -[2205.26 --> 2207.50] and by giving the strong support -[2207.50 --> 2208.56] of God's family -[2208.56 --> 2209.26] in fellowship, -[2209.90 --> 2210.20] prayer, -[2210.20 --> 2211.26] and service? -[2211.48 --> 2212.40] Church family, -[2212.50 --> 2213.24] what is your answer? -[2213.98 --> 2215.60] You are God. -[2216.38 --> 2217.06] Amen. -[2218.26 --> 2219.32] Let's offer a prayer -[2219.32 --> 2220.64] of blessing -[2220.64 --> 2221.68] over Gus -[2221.68 --> 2222.26] together. -[2222.26 --> 2235.32] Gus, -[2235.84 --> 2236.88] Emil, -[2237.46 --> 2238.74] the Lord bless you -[2238.74 --> 2239.92] and keep you. -[2240.26 --> 2241.14] The Lord make His face -[2241.14 --> 2242.00] to shine upon you -[2242.00 --> 2243.62] and be gracious to you. -[2243.62 --> 2245.44] The Lord turn His face -[2245.44 --> 2246.12] toward you -[2246.12 --> 2247.24] and give you -[2247.24 --> 2248.68] His peace. -[2249.50 --> 2250.54] In this way, -[2250.72 --> 2251.74] may the Lord -[2251.74 --> 2252.90] write His name -[2252.90 --> 2253.66] on you, -[2253.90 --> 2254.16] Gus, -[2254.30 --> 2255.26] and make you -[2255.26 --> 2256.50] His own. -[2257.28 --> 2258.54] In the name of Jesus Christ, -[2258.62 --> 2259.00] we pray. -[2259.82 --> 2260.20] Amen. -[2262.70 --> 2263.64] At this point, -[2263.68 --> 2264.56] I'd like to invite -[2264.56 --> 2265.28] Seth -[2265.28 --> 2266.70] to come forward. -[2266.84 --> 2267.28] He is -[2267.28 --> 2268.56] your elder -[2268.56 --> 2269.92] and he has a gift -[2269.92 --> 2270.64] and a memento -[2270.64 --> 2271.80] of this occasion. -[2271.80 --> 2271.92] Amen. -[2274.86 --> 2275.54] Hello? -[2277.64 --> 2278.28] Yeah. -[2281.74 --> 2290.80] Oh, he's got a big smile -[2290.80 --> 2291.64] on his face now. -[2292.32 --> 2293.54] Either he likes baptism -[2293.54 --> 2294.44] or he just pooped. -[2297.70 --> 2299.04] Can we congratulate -[2299.04 --> 2300.52] the Howling family together? -[2302.20 --> 2305.16] You guys may go to your seats. -[2305.16 --> 2308.98] As the kids, -[2309.06 --> 2310.02] as you make your way back, -[2310.10 --> 2310.96] we're all going to stand -[2310.96 --> 2312.34] and sing a song together. -[2312.34 --> 2333.02] God sent His Son. -[2333.02 --> 2334.06] Teacher 1 -[2334.06 --> 2334.90] at 6 Again -[2334.90 --> 2336.52] They called Him Jesus -[2336.52 --> 2337.18] Jesus -[2337.18 --> 2338.46] He ceremonial -[2338.46 --> 2339.52] He took -[2339.52 --> 2340.28] Hillary -[2340.28 --> 2341.60] King -[2341.60 --> 2343.16] Heal and forgive -[2343.16 --> 2344.10] He came -[2344.10 --> 2346.40] Heù -[2346.40 --> 2347.08] He came -[2347.08 --> 2348.40] and died -[2348.40 --> 2348.46] He came -[2348.46 --> 2349.68] to -[2349.68 --> 2350.08] Die -[2350.08 --> 2350.24] To -[2350.24 --> 2350.60] my -[2350.60 --> 2352.12] 介 -[2352.86 --> 2353.76] And -[2353.76 --> 2354.80] Empty -[2354.80 --> 2355.60] Blining -[2355.60 --> 2356.18] �� -[2356.18 --> 2357.04] From -[2357.04 --> 2358.12] and -[2358.12 --> 2359.78] Be -[2359.78 --> 2367.28] Because He lives, I can face tomorrow -[2367.28 --> 2375.68] Because He lives, all fear is gone -[2375.68 --> 2382.18] Because I know He holds the future -[2382.18 --> 2390.62] And life is worth the living just because He lives -[2390.62 --> 2397.72] How sweet to hold a newborn baby -[2397.72 --> 2406.22] And feel the pride and joy He gives -[2406.22 --> 2412.86] But greater still, the calm assurance -[2412.86 --> 2418.00] This child can face uncertain days -[2418.00 --> 2425.30] Because He lives, because He lives -[2425.30 --> 2428.12] I can face tomorrow -[2428.12 --> 2436.56] Because He lives, all fear is gone -[2436.56 --> 2443.24] Because I know He holds the future -[2443.24 --> 2451.80] And life is worth the living just because He lives -[2451.80 --> 2459.04] And then one day, I'll cross the river -[2459.04 --> 2466.74] I'll fight by side, a war with me -[2466.74 --> 2474.40] And then as death gives way to victory -[2474.40 --> 2478.56] I'll see the lights of glory -[2478.56 --> 2482.84] And although He reigns -[2482.84 --> 2489.54] Because He lives, I can face tomorrow -[2489.54 --> 2497.16] Because He lives, all fear is gone -[2497.16 --> 2504.96] Because I know He holds the future -[2504.96 --> 2514.60] And life is worth the living just because He lives -[2514.60 --> 2516.60] Amen. -[2527.16 --> 2528.00] Amen. -[2528.02 --> 2528.76] Amen. -[2528.80 --> 2528.84] Amen. -[2528.84 --> 2529.94] Amen. -[2530.06 --> 2530.76] Amen. -[2530.88 --> 2531.08] Amen. -[2531.16 --> 2531.80] Amen. -[2531.84 --> 2531.94] Amen. -[2531.94 --> 2532.74] Amen. -[2532.74 --> 2532.98] Amen. -[2532.98 --> 2533.94] Amen. -[2534.30 --> 2535.06] Amen. -[2535.26 --> 2535.98] Amen. -[2535.98 --> 2536.26] Amen. -[2536.44 --> 2536.84] Amen. -[2536.84 --> 2537.00] Amen. -[2537.02 --> 2537.96] Amen. -[2538.30 --> 2539.04] Amen. -[2539.04 --> 2540.96] Amen. -[2540.96 --> 2541.40] Amen. -[2541.48 --> 2543.12] Amen. -[2543.76 --> 2544.04] Yes. -[2544.04 --> 2544.40] Amen. -[2544.40 --> 2544.84] Amen. -[2544.84 --> 2545.92] Amen. -[2545.92 --> 2546.26] Amen. -[2546.60 --> 2547.32] Amen. -[2547.32 --> 2548.20] Amen. -[2548.24 --> 2549.14] Amen. -[2549.14 --> 2550.48] Amen. -[2550.48 --> 2551.08] Amen. -[2551.08 --> 2551.38] Amen. -[2552.12 --> 2553.48] Amen. -[2553.48 --> 2554.10] Amen. -[2554.10 --> 2555.58] Amen. -[2555.70 --> 2556.52] Amen. -[2556.52 --> 2557.10] Amen. -[2557.16 --> 2561.70] Christ is risen. What a beautiful truth. -[2562.74 --> 2565.62] My name is Emil. I'm a deacon here at Emanuel. -[2566.62 --> 2569.70] And we continue our worship with the giving of our gifts -[2569.70 --> 2574.42] for the budget, which covers the administration of the church -[2574.42 --> 2578.74] and its ministries, and the special offering, -[2578.92 --> 2582.16] which is for a world-renew Ukraine response. -[2582.96 --> 2587.10] The Russian war against Ukraine is now in its 409th day. -[2587.86 --> 2590.74] And many tens of thousands of Ukrainian -[2590.74 --> 2594.82] and Russian soldiers have lost their lives in what appears -[2594.82 --> 2600.20] to be a needless war prompted by one person's prideful -[2600.20 --> 2602.92] and selfish need to correct history. -[2604.44 --> 2608.04] The United Nations data shows that since the start of the war, -[2608.52 --> 2612.12] more than 8,000 Ukrainian civilians have been killed -[2612.54 --> 2614.74] and another 14,000 injured. -[2614.74 --> 2619.90] With most casualties caused by explosive weapons. -[2620.32 --> 2624.82] More than 8 million Ukrainians have fled their country -[2624.82 --> 2628.16] and become refugees across Europe. -[2628.16 --> 2637.82] And many of these refugees are mothers with children whose husbands have been conscripted -[2637.82 --> 2641.82] to fight against the Russian invasion. -[2641.82 --> 2648.40] And 5.3 million are displaced within Ukraine. -[2649.40 --> 2653.70] World Renew has assets in place in Ukraine -[2653.70 --> 2657.44] and they are working with other agencies and churches -[2657.44 --> 2663.12] to provide food, clothing, and spiritual aid for those that are displaced in Ukraine. -[2663.12 --> 2668.34] We pray that the work done will bring comfort to those who are in need -[2668.34 --> 2670.92] and that the spirit will bear fruit. -[2672.04 --> 2676.06] We also pray for a quick and just resolution of this war. -[2676.88 --> 2677.96] Please give generously. -[2677.96 --> 2683.16] Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have -[2683.16 --> 2686.42] for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. -[2687.00 --> 2688.80] Hebrews 13 verse 16. -[2689.62 --> 2693.06] Next week's offering is for the budget and gems. -[2693.90 --> 2706.50] translation of Time -[2706.50 --> 2736.48] Thank you. -[2736.50 --> 2766.48] Thank you. -[2766.50 --> 2796.48] Thank you. -[2796.50 --> 2826.48] Thank you. -[2826.50 --> 2856.48] Thank you. -[2856.50 --> 2886.48] Thank you. -[2886.50 --> 2916.48] Thank you. -[2916.50 --> 2946.48] Thank you. -[2946.50 --> 2948.50] Thank you. -[2948.50 --> 2976.48] Thank you. -[2976.68 --> 2978.48] Thank you. -[2978.48 --> 3006.46] Thank you. -[3006.46 --> 3013.18] does -[3036.46 --> 3055.38] Good morning. -[3055.38 --> 3055.96] Good morning. -[3057.34 --> 3060.74] Before we go to God in prayer, just a couple of announcements. -[3061.84 --> 3064.58] We have a full council meeting on Tuesday night. -[3064.58 --> 3070.80] It starts with dinner at 6, and we will listen to stories from a couple of Mexico mission -[3070.80 --> 3080.38] trip team members, and the class's BCSE restorative practices task force will do a presentation -[3080.38 --> 3081.42] and training. -[3083.06 --> 3091.68] And this next one was also written up for me, but I totally endorse and love the announcement. -[3093.22 --> 3094.26] We're excited. -[3094.58 --> 3100.40] We're not quite as excited as Easter morning, but we're excited to officially welcome Maria -[3100.40 --> 3101.96] Nguyen to the staff of our church. -[3103.08 --> 3103.94] You can clap. -[3109.34 --> 3116.12] Maria is working as a new communications administrator and ordinarily will be in the office on Tuesdays -[3116.12 --> 3120.56] and Thursdays between 9 and 2.30ish. -[3121.94 --> 3128.36] Maria, we are grateful for your love for our church, and our prayer is that God will use -[3128.36 --> 3130.00] you among us all. -[3130.00 --> 3137.68] God, this morning when I pray, I'm going to just stop for a few seconds, and then we'll -[3137.68 --> 3139.32] recite the Lord's Prayer together. -[3140.38 --> 3141.08] Should we pray? -[3141.08 --> 3148.68] Our Father, Lord, in heaven, Lord, thank you. -[3150.14 --> 3152.52] Thank you that we can come and celebrate this morning. -[3153.40 --> 3159.22] Lord, of all the stuff that's going on in this world, the stuff each one of us is dealing with, -[3159.22 --> 3165.18] be it waiting for surgery, be it treatments. -[3165.18 --> 3175.38] Lord, we pray will you help each one of us to focus on this morning, the morning that we celebrate your rising. -[3175.74 --> 3186.54] Lord, how awesome that you died for each and every one of us, but it requires a choice for us, Lord. -[3186.54 --> 3203.16] Lord, we pray will you lead us to that choice, where we all know of people, kids, grandkids, relatives that no longer worship, no longer feel a need. -[3204.22 --> 3206.96] We ask you, Lord, to touch every one of them this morning. -[3206.96 --> 3217.36] May you help them to think about this morning and the great and glorious deed that was done. -[3217.46 --> 3223.28] Lord, we think of the entire week or the two weeks before Easter morning and then that empty tomb. -[3224.82 --> 3234.60] And then when you stood before Mary and said that you were going to see your God and our God, your Lord and our Lord. -[3234.60 --> 3237.50] Lord, thank you that we can call you Lord and Savior. -[3237.68 --> 3239.88] Thank you that we can come to you. -[3240.06 --> 3241.28] Help us to come to you, Lord. -[3241.32 --> 3243.82] Help us to read your word. -[3244.00 --> 3247.06] You sent a letter, a big letter to each one of us. -[3247.14 --> 3247.78] Do we read it? -[3248.00 --> 3248.96] Help us to read it, Lord. -[3251.12 --> 3255.12] We pray will you help us to come to you in prayer. -[3257.46 --> 3260.56] Lord, we ask you to help us focus on today. -[3261.40 --> 3263.60] Lord, there's so many things going on. -[3264.60 --> 3267.76] And yet the most beautiful thing of all we celebrate this morning. -[3271.06 --> 3275.68] Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be your name. -[3276.58 --> 3277.88] Your kingdom come. -[3278.68 --> 3281.94] Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. -[3282.94 --> 3284.98] Give us our daily bread. -[3286.06 --> 3289.62] Give us our debts as we forgive our debtors. -[3289.62 --> 3294.74] Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. -[3295.88 --> 3299.66] For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever. -[3300.76 --> 3301.10] Amen. -[3319.62 --> 3340.68] This morning in our Easter worship, we're going to look at one of the stories that happened early on after Jesus was resurrected. -[3340.68 --> 3347.62] And we're going to do that in the Gospel of John, where we have been reflecting this Holy Week season. -[3348.46 --> 3353.18] And so I'm going to read from John 20, starting at verse 24. -[3353.18 --> 3355.56] Then I'll read through 31. -[3355.92 --> 3357.72] That will be on the screen behind me. -[3357.78 --> 3366.60] But if you have a Bible, of course, I encourage you to have that open and in your hands or turned on as we go through it together. -[3369.34 --> 3371.38] Together, then, let's hear the word of the Lord. -[3371.38 --> 3382.10] Now, Thomas, also known as Didymus, one of the twelve, was not with the disciples when he came to Jesus. -[3383.00 --> 3385.34] So the other disciples told him, -[3385.82 --> 3387.20] We have seen the Lord. -[3387.20 --> 3389.94] But he said to them, -[3391.16 --> 3402.38] Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were and put my hand into his side, I will not believe. -[3404.50 --> 3409.78] A week later, his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. -[3410.44 --> 3415.06] Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, -[3415.50 --> 3416.72] Peace be with you. -[3417.20 --> 3420.68] Then he turned to Thomas and said, -[3421.90 --> 3423.18] Put your finger here. -[3423.96 --> 3425.58] See my hands. -[3425.94 --> 3428.48] Reach your hand and put it into my side. -[3428.90 --> 3431.14] Stop doubting and believe. -[3432.82 --> 3434.38] Thomas said to him, -[3435.42 --> 3437.54] My Lord and my God. -[3439.06 --> 3441.02] Then Jesus told him, -[3441.84 --> 3445.40] Because you have seen me, you have believed. -[3445.40 --> 3450.92] Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed. -[3450.92 --> 3459.52] Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. -[3459.52 --> 3473.08] But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name. -[3473.08 --> 3475.18] This is the word of the Lord. -[3475.68 --> 3484.40] Now, I've said it already, and I've talked to a number of you about this. -[3484.40 --> 3488.28] I love Resurrection Sunday. -[3488.28 --> 3493.12] And I love it for a whole host of reasons. -[3493.72 --> 3499.86] Because today changed everything throughout history. -[3499.86 --> 3508.08] But to begin this morning, I want to talk a little bit about something else that has changed. -[3508.08 --> 3511.20] Because something is different. -[3511.20 --> 3516.40] Now, don't jump to conclusions about what you think that might be. -[3516.48 --> 3522.20] Because I'm not just talking about the tomb being empty, as if we can just talk about that. -[3523.16 --> 3523.64] Right? -[3523.68 --> 3530.00] There's no way to overstate the impact of the empty tomb, to overstate the meaning of the resurrection. -[3530.00 --> 3543.84] But for a minute this morning, I want to just live into the reality with you that something else has changed. -[3543.84 --> 3549.60] And I would guess that you, perhaps not in this moment, right? -[3549.66 --> 3557.94] Because it's really easy to believe and to have joy of belief even as we come and gather as a church. -[3557.94 --> 3565.00] But I would guess that the change that I'm talking about, most of us feel more than we can even describe it. -[3566.32 --> 3566.80] Right? -[3566.82 --> 3573.28] We live in this change more than you can define exactly what it is. -[3575.30 --> 3578.90] If you're a Christian here with us this morning, this Easter Sunday, -[3579.34 --> 3584.48] maybe you feel that a little bit more poignantly, a little bit more heavily right now. -[3584.48 --> 3584.68] Right? -[3584.68 --> 3590.58] There's something about the weight of glory and the beauty of moments like these. -[3591.82 --> 3598.52] But at exactly the same time as our hearts are being pulled up in worship, -[3598.52 --> 3606.64] it almost feels like our feet are being pulled down into the sinking sand of the ground. -[3607.52 --> 3607.62] Right? -[3607.62 --> 3616.56] Our imaginations, on the one hand, are being stretched towards the transcendent even as the frame below holds us back. -[3618.60 --> 3622.36] You see, it used to be easier. -[3624.08 --> 3627.62] Now, if you're older than I am, I'm about to turn 40. -[3627.76 --> 3629.40] Actually, in a week, I will turn 40. -[3629.40 --> 3635.30] If you're older than me, you will probably see this or know this a little bit more clearly. -[3636.04 --> 3636.40] Right? -[3636.46 --> 3641.46] Because you grew up in a time, in a world, that used to know what was up and what was down. -[3642.28 --> 3642.44] Right? -[3642.46 --> 3644.92] The lines used to be drawn a whole lot more clearly. -[3645.24 --> 3648.36] We used to kind of know what was sacred and what was secular. -[3648.58 --> 3651.10] We used to have a religious sphere and a public sphere. -[3651.10 --> 3654.24] And yeah, things kind of crossed over and there were some outliers. -[3654.66 --> 3659.24] But the definitions, generally speaking, in the culture were clear. -[3660.50 --> 3662.40] Fact and faith. -[3662.98 --> 3667.26] Either you saw them in agreement or you saw them in juxtaposition. -[3668.36 --> 3668.80] Right? -[3668.88 --> 3669.52] In conflict. -[3670.64 --> 3673.86] But the categories used to be obvious. -[3675.12 --> 3680.24] And maybe, again, especially if you're older than I am, you still see the world like that. -[3680.24 --> 3682.32] That's still how the world should be. -[3682.64 --> 3683.42] A binary. -[3683.62 --> 3684.52] Either or. -[3684.66 --> 3685.46] One or the other. -[3685.92 --> 3692.88] But the thing that has changed, the reality for most of us living in a 21st century western world. -[3694.28 --> 3696.46] Again, here, if you're younger than me. -[3696.86 --> 3698.62] Especially if you're in your 20s. -[3698.68 --> 3700.78] But definitely if you're a teenager. -[3701.36 --> 3701.50] Right? -[3701.56 --> 3703.10] Because this is where it gets even harder. -[3703.60 --> 3706.54] The world actually doesn't feel any different to you. -[3707.14 --> 3709.12] Because this is just the way it's always been. -[3710.24 --> 3710.88] Right? -[3710.92 --> 3721.42] The neat categories of faith and fact have blurred or they have blended what was once either or now exists in the struggle of both and. -[3722.82 --> 3728.02] And maybe that's the best way to understand this kind of cultural moment. -[3728.12 --> 3732.52] That's the best way to articulate the change that we're living in the midst of. -[3732.52 --> 3732.70] Right? -[3732.70 --> 3741.40] At exactly the same time that I know this to be true, precisely then, I also know it's impossible. -[3743.54 --> 3744.14] Right? -[3744.18 --> 3750.68] My heart longs for eternity, for something more, for transcendence, for something bigger, for something beyond me. -[3750.68 --> 3754.16] And yet, the world feels closed. -[3755.74 --> 3756.30] Right? -[3756.36 --> 3762.30] In the day-to-day systems and movements of life and faith, the world is small. -[3762.44 --> 3763.20] Too small. -[3764.10 --> 3764.30] Right? -[3764.30 --> 3764.82] So small. -[3764.82 --> 3769.26] So small that anything I could ever need is a call or a text or a DM or a tap away. -[3770.54 --> 3782.52] And even as I feel this haunting for more, like a spectral affection just beyond my reach, it's slipping palpably through my fingers. -[3782.52 --> 3783.20] Skepticism. -[3785.62 --> 3792.16] Skepticism wells up and it pulls us firmly back to the ground. -[3794.32 --> 3799.28] And I don't think I'm just describing myself when I talk like that. -[3800.62 --> 3801.16] Right? -[3801.22 --> 3808.68] When we're honest about it, I feel like Thomas or what I imagine Thomas would have felt like there. -[3808.74 --> 3810.40] I want you to notice something. -[3810.40 --> 3814.00] We said it almost in passing as we read it. -[3814.06 --> 3815.84] So maybe we missed it, but I'll read it again. -[3816.00 --> 3817.26] Thomas is told, -[3817.40 --> 3818.38] We have seen the Lord. -[3818.44 --> 3818.96] And he says, -[3819.08 --> 3824.42] Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my fingers where the nails were and put my hands into his side, -[3824.80 --> 3828.62] unless I have all this evidence, he says, I will not believe. -[3830.86 --> 3835.30] Now, you've got to imagine, right, that Thomas wanted to believe. -[3835.30 --> 3843.52] And actually, from a strictly rational perspective now, he should have. -[3844.04 --> 3853.44] Because he is justified, rationally speaking, justified in believing his friends, his most trusted companions, -[3853.70 --> 3856.68] when they told him what had happened, that they had seen the Lord. -[3857.48 --> 3858.08] Do you know what I mean? -[3858.08 --> 3866.66] It is actually more reasonable to believe your trusted friends, those whom you love, -[3866.72 --> 3872.26] when they tell you something, even something that seems impossible, than to not believe them. -[3872.26 --> 3874.32] Right? -[3874.40 --> 3879.28] Because of your relationship and your experience of them, because of your mutual love for them, -[3879.34 --> 3883.06] it is more rational to believe them when they say things like that. -[3885.76 --> 3892.38] No one, I think, made this point more beautifully and simply than C.S. Lewis. -[3892.78 --> 3897.10] There's a point early on in the story, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. -[3897.10 --> 3901.10] Okay, in the story of The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, early on, -[3901.40 --> 3905.94] Lucy has gone through the wardrobe into the land of Narnia, -[3906.32 --> 3909.94] and Edmund has also gone through and followed her. -[3911.08 --> 3915.50] Lucy comes back and she tells her older brother and sister, Peter and Susan, -[3915.74 --> 3917.80] what she has seen and what she has witnessed, -[3918.08 --> 3921.20] and Edmund comes and says, no, no, no, it's all a joke. -[3922.06 --> 3923.88] It's not real, we were just playing. -[3924.88 --> 3926.70] Peter and Susan don't know what to do. -[3927.10 --> 3930.10] And so they go and they talk to the professor, -[3930.68 --> 3933.06] who lives in the house where they are staying at. -[3933.88 --> 3935.72] They tell him the whole story. -[3936.56 --> 3940.44] And after listening and thinking and sitting quietly for a moment, -[3940.58 --> 3941.54] the professor says, -[3942.68 --> 3946.24] how do you know that your sister's story isn't true? -[3948.38 --> 3950.72] And Susan, Lewis writes, hesitates, -[3950.96 --> 3953.46] but sees that the question is genuine and says, -[3953.98 --> 3955.92] but Edmund said that they'd only been pretending. -[3957.10 --> 3959.04] The professor responds, that's the point, -[3959.26 --> 3962.24] which certainly deserves very careful consideration. -[3962.66 --> 3965.60] For instance, if you will excuse me for asking the question, -[3966.02 --> 3971.30] does your experience lead you to regard your brother or your sister as more reliable? -[3971.30 --> 3974.28] I mean, which is the more truthful? -[3975.72 --> 3978.12] Peter and Susan both say, Lucy. -[3979.00 --> 3981.64] And Susan adds, but this couldn't be true, -[3981.78 --> 3987.76] all this about a wood through a wardrobe and a fawn who met her and offered her food. -[3988.36 --> 3990.38] The professor says, well, that's more than I know. -[3990.96 --> 3995.32] And a charge of lying against someone whom you have always found truthful -[3995.32 --> 4000.92] is a very serious thing, a very serious thing indeed. -[4002.54 --> 4007.62] And Susan goes, what if it's not lying, but something more? -[4009.26 --> 4011.34] Madness, you mean, the professor asks? -[4012.18 --> 4015.42] One only has to look at her to see she is not mad. -[4015.42 --> 4020.18] But then, hesitates Susan, and the professor interrupts, -[4020.22 --> 4020.88] and this is the point. -[4021.40 --> 4022.40] He says, logic. -[4023.84 --> 4026.24] Why don't they teach logic at schools anymore? -[4027.32 --> 4028.96] He says, there are only three possibilities. -[4030.06 --> 4031.94] Either your sister is telling lies, -[4032.32 --> 4033.52] or she is mad, -[4033.78 --> 4035.16] or she's telling the truth. -[4036.16 --> 4038.08] You know that she doesn't tell lies. -[4038.24 --> 4039.72] She's obviously not mad. -[4039.72 --> 4042.08] For the moment, then, -[4042.70 --> 4044.96] unless any further evidence turns up, -[4045.04 --> 4045.90] the professor continues, -[4046.18 --> 4049.08] we must assume that she is telling the truth. -[4050.96 --> 4054.96] It's more logical to believe people you know to be truthful and to trust. -[4055.40 --> 4059.84] Thomas could have reasonably believed in that moment, -[4060.36 --> 4062.90] because he knows and trusts the disciples. -[4064.30 --> 4065.90] This is true for us, -[4066.00 --> 4068.92] just like it is and was for Thomas. -[4068.92 --> 4069.40] Right? -[4069.48 --> 4071.38] He probably wanted to believe, -[4071.82 --> 4075.82] and he knows that he can trust his brothers and sisters that are around him, -[4075.92 --> 4078.14] but still he struggles. -[4079.00 --> 4081.66] And then, here's the part that's easy to miss. -[4082.02 --> 4082.52] Thomas says, -[4082.62 --> 4084.26] unless I put my fingers in the nail marks, -[4084.32 --> 4085.12] my hand in his side, -[4085.20 --> 4086.24] I will not believe. -[4086.78 --> 4087.62] A week later, -[4087.74 --> 4089.54] his disciples were in the house again, -[4089.66 --> 4090.78] and Thomas was with them. -[4092.34 --> 4093.52] Did you catch it that time? -[4095.00 --> 4096.72] A week later. -[4098.92 --> 4100.64] A whole week has gone by. -[4101.32 --> 4101.40] Right? -[4101.46 --> 4106.82] It's an entire week that Thomas has made his famous statement of, -[4107.04 --> 4107.80] unless I see, -[4107.94 --> 4108.74] I will not believe. -[4109.74 --> 4111.34] And then, finally, -[4111.70 --> 4116.76] Jesus appears to him and accepts his challenge for proof. -[4116.82 --> 4119.40] A week before there is proof. -[4119.40 --> 4121.98] And like I said, -[4122.04 --> 4124.98] maybe this is more true for me right now than it is for you, -[4125.12 --> 4126.58] but I really suspect it's not. -[4126.86 --> 4127.04] Right? -[4127.08 --> 4129.98] I think that that week of Thomas' life, -[4130.12 --> 4131.44] in the challenge of belief, -[4131.52 --> 4133.54] in the constant pulling down pressure of doubt, -[4133.90 --> 4134.78] knowing that you should, -[4134.86 --> 4136.34] but feeling like you can't, -[4136.44 --> 4137.44] feeling like you do, -[4137.54 --> 4138.90] but knowing that it's impossible. -[4139.30 --> 4139.54] Right? -[4139.54 --> 4148.52] That week of Thomas' life defines the age and experience of faith for us in the world today. -[4149.10 --> 4150.64] This is where we live. -[4152.00 --> 4153.50] And here's the thing, right? -[4153.60 --> 4155.08] It's not just Christians. -[4155.90 --> 4158.68] It's all of us in this moment. -[4159.46 --> 4163.88] The human condition is to love and to desire and to believe. -[4163.88 --> 4166.60] Now, we might use different words for it, -[4166.86 --> 4169.82] but that pull of eternity on your heart, -[4169.94 --> 4172.10] that unsettled, that restless wandering, -[4172.28 --> 4176.28] that not completely satisfied longing for an experience of beauty, -[4177.12 --> 4181.72] yet simultaneously being distinctly bound to the ground, -[4182.02 --> 4184.62] looking for what is and knowing what's not. -[4187.12 --> 4189.50] We're all Thomas now. -[4189.50 --> 4194.04] That's the title of this message. -[4194.18 --> 4195.18] We're all Thomas now. -[4195.30 --> 4198.68] And I borrowed it from a book that I read -[4198.68 --> 4203.36] that has helped me understand myself and my faith and the world we live in. -[4203.72 --> 4206.46] It's a book that I highly recommend. -[4206.70 --> 4207.64] It's a little book. -[4207.74 --> 4211.12] It's easily read by Jamie Smith called How Not to Be Secular. -[4211.24 --> 4213.92] And it's about a big book by Charles Taylor, -[4214.10 --> 4215.46] a Catholic social philosopher. -[4215.72 --> 4217.56] That's, you know, 1,400 pages, -[4217.56 --> 4219.14] so that one's a little more difficult to read. -[4219.50 --> 4221.56] Jamie Smith writes, he says, -[4222.22 --> 4222.42] quote, -[4222.72 --> 4226.08] Even as faith endures in our secular age, -[4226.22 --> 4228.32] believing doesn't come easy. -[4229.64 --> 4230.74] Faith is fraught. -[4231.36 --> 4235.38] Confession is haunted by an inescapable sense of its contestability. -[4236.00 --> 4238.68] We don't believe instead of doubting. -[4239.10 --> 4241.32] We believe while doubting. -[4241.94 --> 4243.92] We're all Thomas now. -[4245.48 --> 4247.10] And all means all, right? -[4247.10 --> 4249.32] This is the life of faith that I know, -[4249.44 --> 4251.26] and I bet that most of you do. -[4252.00 --> 4253.38] And that's the new thing. -[4255.06 --> 4258.14] But it's also the struggle of faith for everyone, -[4258.34 --> 4260.00] for agnostic, for atheist, -[4260.22 --> 4263.76] for the most committed post-modern, post-Christian person. -[4264.90 --> 4266.28] Paul Ellie says, -[4266.28 --> 4269.90] We're all skeptics now, believer and unbeliever alike. -[4270.30 --> 4272.76] Believer and unbeliever are in the same predicament, -[4273.18 --> 4276.20] thrown back onto themselves in complex circumstances, -[4276.72 --> 4277.66] looking for a sign. -[4279.40 --> 4283.60] There's another writer who defines her experience of faith or its lack -[4283.60 --> 4284.84] by saying, -[4285.22 --> 4286.38] I don't believe in God, -[4287.18 --> 4288.12] but I miss him. -[4289.66 --> 4290.12] Right? -[4290.12 --> 4292.42] Something has changed. -[4292.62 --> 4296.58] And Smith says that the doubter's doubt is faith. -[4297.24 --> 4298.78] His temptation is belief. -[4299.18 --> 4302.16] And it is a temptation that has not entirely been quelled, -[4302.50 --> 4304.34] even in our secular age. -[4304.34 --> 4312.22] And it's now into the midst of this existential space, -[4312.36 --> 4314.42] into the midst of this, -[4314.64 --> 4316.28] what was a week in Thomas' life -[4316.28 --> 4318.46] and what defines most of our experiences, -[4318.68 --> 4322.26] that the resurrection of Jesus bursts through. -[4323.06 --> 4323.26] Right? -[4323.28 --> 4325.82] Even as we oscillate between faith and doubt, -[4325.96 --> 4326.94] assurance and skepticism, -[4327.14 --> 4328.38] conviction and complacency, -[4328.68 --> 4330.14] and not really even oscillate, -[4330.18 --> 4332.38] because we're pulled up and pushed down -[4332.38 --> 4333.60] at the same time. -[4334.20 --> 4334.32] Right? -[4334.38 --> 4335.66] Into this reality, -[4335.92 --> 4337.48] transcendence and the resurrection -[4337.48 --> 4340.40] comes crashing through the neat and organized -[4340.40 --> 4343.32] and bordered and bounded pictures of reality -[4343.32 --> 4344.98] that we have so carefully crafted, -[4345.22 --> 4346.74] and it just messes it all up. -[4347.94 --> 4351.90] And it's a beautiful, messy mystery. -[4353.78 --> 4354.96] That's just it. -[4355.70 --> 4357.78] The mystery is messy, -[4357.78 --> 4362.42] and faith won't be confined to our propositional boxes, -[4362.74 --> 4365.98] just like Jesus won't be confined to a grave. -[4367.70 --> 4368.82] Let me say that again. -[4369.18 --> 4370.72] The mystery is messy, -[4370.88 --> 4373.48] and faith won't be confined to our propositional boxes, -[4373.48 --> 4377.04] just like Jesus won't be confined to a grave. -[4377.04 --> 4382.42] Now, notice this, -[4382.52 --> 4390.60] because I think that this is one of the most powerful parts of the story. -[4392.02 --> 4394.42] When Thomas does see Jesus, -[4394.90 --> 4395.10] right, -[4396.08 --> 4399.06] his tests for truthfulness, -[4399.30 --> 4399.46] right, -[4399.48 --> 4401.88] his need to put his hand in the side -[4401.88 --> 4403.18] and to touch the holes, -[4403.26 --> 4404.76] his tests for truthfulness -[4404.76 --> 4407.34] fall away to worship, -[4407.60 --> 4408.96] and all he can say is, -[4409.18 --> 4410.76] my Lord and my God. -[4413.46 --> 4414.26] You see, -[4415.26 --> 4418.16] I believe -[4418.16 --> 4420.38] that we make a mistake -[4420.38 --> 4422.56] when we think Easter -[4422.56 --> 4425.88] is all about proving -[4425.88 --> 4428.98] God has power over sin and death. -[4429.22 --> 4429.36] Now, -[4429.98 --> 4431.30] don't hear what I'm not saying. -[4432.66 --> 4433.78] Easter does that. -[4433.78 --> 4435.82] Easter proves that. -[4435.90 --> 4437.54] The empty tomb does that. -[4437.58 --> 4438.56] It is proof, -[4438.62 --> 4438.80] right? -[4438.90 --> 4440.00] Jesus says to Thomas, -[4440.12 --> 4441.48] here is your proof. -[4441.56 --> 4442.90] I am your proof. -[4443.04 --> 4444.30] But this story, -[4444.68 --> 4446.38] especially this one about Thomas, -[4446.72 --> 4447.62] especially here, -[4447.86 --> 4449.44] is not about proving, -[4450.48 --> 4450.66] right? -[4450.74 --> 4452.68] Thomas' need for proof -[4452.68 --> 4453.94] is the foil -[4453.94 --> 4456.68] through which we get to the heart of the matter, -[4456.94 --> 4458.16] through which we get to the point. -[4459.06 --> 4460.42] Thomas' need for proof -[4460.42 --> 4461.34] is the foil -[4461.34 --> 4462.58] that points us -[4462.58 --> 4463.94] to his words, -[4464.08 --> 4464.72] my Lord -[4464.72 --> 4465.88] and my God. -[4466.94 --> 4468.20] This isn't about proving. -[4468.62 --> 4469.84] This is about stirring. -[4470.70 --> 4472.00] This isn't about effect, -[4472.14 --> 4473.06] though that is huge. -[4473.20 --> 4474.16] This is about affect. -[4474.54 --> 4476.34] This is about stone becoming flesh, -[4476.42 --> 4477.76] about dead coming alive. -[4477.82 --> 4478.60] This is about light -[4478.60 --> 4479.96] shining in the darkness. -[4480.32 --> 4481.54] This is about new -[4481.54 --> 4483.54] resurrection life, -[4484.08 --> 4486.14] imaginations becoming alive -[4486.14 --> 4487.62] for the impossible -[4487.62 --> 4489.42] and the possible -[4489.42 --> 4490.78] becoming possible -[4490.78 --> 4492.12] because the tomb -[4492.12 --> 4493.46] is empty -[4493.46 --> 4495.72] and just like Thomas. -[4497.06 --> 4498.40] Into the weakness -[4498.40 --> 4500.34] of a weak fort -[4500.34 --> 4501.18] that has for us -[4501.18 --> 4502.12] been a lifetime, -[4502.66 --> 4503.74] Jesus today -[4503.74 --> 4505.26] stands in front of you -[4505.26 --> 4507.00] and he asks to be seen. -[4507.38 --> 4508.96] Jesus stands in front of you -[4508.96 --> 4510.58] and he asks to be heard. -[4510.70 --> 4512.32] In the midst of your doubts, -[4512.84 --> 4513.50] Jesus says, -[4513.50 --> 4515.42] come in the midst -[4515.42 --> 4517.66] and to offer your assurance, -[4517.86 --> 4518.54] Jesus says, -[4518.84 --> 4520.96] go to your questions. -[4521.18 --> 4521.64] He says, -[4521.76 --> 4522.10] yes, -[4522.38 --> 4523.30] ask me more. -[4524.40 --> 4525.46] In your wandering, -[4525.70 --> 4527.38] he calls forth wonder -[4527.38 --> 4530.12] and he says, -[4531.06 --> 4532.16] blessed are those -[4532.16 --> 4533.28] who have not seen -[4533.28 --> 4536.22] and yet have believed. -[4537.90 --> 4540.20] These are the very words -[4540.20 --> 4541.88] of Jesus spoken -[4541.88 --> 4543.84] about you. -[4545.60 --> 4546.20] You, -[4546.42 --> 4547.76] 2,000 years later, -[4548.64 --> 4549.94] have not seen -[4549.94 --> 4551.20] and yet believed. -[4551.36 --> 4552.66] Jesus is speaking -[4552.66 --> 4554.06] to you. -[4555.62 --> 4556.14] Believe -[4556.14 --> 4558.16] and you are blessed. -[4558.38 --> 4558.72] Believe -[4558.72 --> 4560.08] even in the week -[4560.08 --> 4560.80] of doubt -[4560.80 --> 4562.62] and he is with you. -[4562.78 --> 4563.06] Believe -[4563.06 --> 4564.34] even as you doubt -[4564.34 --> 4565.40] and you are giving -[4565.40 --> 4566.46] something more -[4566.46 --> 4567.10] than your heart -[4567.10 --> 4568.38] could ever ask -[4568.38 --> 4569.08] or imagine -[4569.08 --> 4570.72] but the exact same thing -[4570.72 --> 4571.46] that your heart -[4571.46 --> 4572.46] was created for. -[4573.28 --> 4574.96] Even as we feel -[4574.96 --> 4575.68] rootless -[4575.68 --> 4576.62] and unsure, -[4577.04 --> 4577.82] he brings -[4577.82 --> 4578.88] a rootedness -[4578.88 --> 4580.34] and a certainty -[4580.34 --> 4582.42] because here's the thing, -[4583.22 --> 4583.80] this -[4583.80 --> 4585.84] is -[4585.84 --> 4587.32] history. -[4588.74 --> 4589.98] The historical evidence -[4589.98 --> 4590.64] for the resurrection -[4590.64 --> 4591.12] of Jesus -[4591.12 --> 4591.90] is profound -[4591.90 --> 4593.10] and it is compelling -[4593.10 --> 4594.40] but here -[4594.40 --> 4595.60] is what we need -[4595.60 --> 4596.12] to remember, -[4596.46 --> 4596.62] right? -[4596.62 --> 4597.88] No matter how strong -[4597.88 --> 4598.50] your doubts -[4598.50 --> 4599.38] are, -[4599.76 --> 4601.60] history does not change. -[4602.92 --> 4603.02] Right? -[4603.08 --> 4604.16] Jesus isn't like -[4604.16 --> 4604.70] Tinkerbell -[4604.70 --> 4605.64] from Peter Pan -[4605.64 --> 4607.12] or like the gods -[4607.12 --> 4608.60] from Neil Gaiman's book -[4608.60 --> 4609.48] American Gods, -[4609.78 --> 4609.92] right? -[4609.96 --> 4610.58] All of whom -[4610.58 --> 4611.96] need the belief -[4611.96 --> 4613.16] of people in the world -[4613.16 --> 4613.82] in order for them -[4613.82 --> 4614.32] to exist -[4614.32 --> 4614.98] and to continue -[4614.98 --> 4615.56] to exist. -[4615.96 --> 4617.12] This is history -[4617.12 --> 4619.08] and what you feel -[4619.08 --> 4619.64] about it -[4619.64 --> 4620.86] or what you believe -[4620.86 --> 4621.50] about it -[4621.50 --> 4622.76] or don't feel -[4622.76 --> 4623.20] about it -[4623.20 --> 4623.82] or don't believe -[4623.82 --> 4624.26] about it -[4624.26 --> 4625.14] doesn't change -[4625.14 --> 4625.74] the fact. -[4626.62 --> 4627.82] That the tomb -[4627.82 --> 4628.40] was empty -[4628.40 --> 4630.96] and that he is raised. -[4634.16 --> 4635.36] As if to make the point -[4635.36 --> 4636.20] that this is history, -[4636.36 --> 4638.32] John ends this section -[4638.32 --> 4638.82] and saying, -[4638.96 --> 4639.72] Jesus performed -[4639.72 --> 4640.70] many other signs -[4640.70 --> 4641.22] in the presence -[4641.22 --> 4641.98] of his disciples -[4641.98 --> 4643.46] which are not recorded -[4643.46 --> 4644.14] in this book -[4644.14 --> 4646.26] but these are written -[4646.26 --> 4648.30] that you may believe -[4648.30 --> 4650.04] that Jesus is the Messiah, -[4650.18 --> 4650.90] the Son of God -[4650.90 --> 4651.90] and that by believing -[4651.90 --> 4653.70] you may have life -[4653.70 --> 4654.86] in his name. -[4654.86 --> 4656.64] These are written -[4656.64 --> 4658.48] that you may believe -[4658.48 --> 4660.36] that Jesus is the Messiah, -[4660.48 --> 4661.20] the Son of God -[4661.20 --> 4662.54] and that by believing -[4662.54 --> 4664.06] you may have life -[4664.06 --> 4665.16] in his name. -[4665.28 --> 4666.30] These are written. -[4666.70 --> 4668.46] This is the gospel, -[4668.78 --> 4668.90] right? -[4668.96 --> 4670.28] Because Jesus lived -[4670.28 --> 4671.58] the life I should have lived -[4671.58 --> 4672.56] and died the death -[4672.56 --> 4673.70] that I deserve. -[4673.82 --> 4675.14] Because Jesus was raised -[4675.14 --> 4676.76] victorious over sin -[4676.76 --> 4677.20] and death. -[4677.28 --> 4678.80] Because the love of God -[4678.80 --> 4680.04] for you was greater -[4680.04 --> 4681.30] than the wrath of God -[4681.30 --> 4681.78] for sin. -[4681.78 --> 4683.80] because the tomb is empty. -[4683.94 --> 4685.78] God has one life -[4685.78 --> 4688.20] and life is given. -[4689.34 --> 4690.76] These are written. -[4692.98 --> 4693.48] And so now -[4693.48 --> 4695.34] to your rootlessness, -[4696.24 --> 4697.72] to your doubts, -[4698.00 --> 4699.00] to your struggles, -[4699.46 --> 4701.42] he brings a rootedness -[4701.42 --> 4704.42] of worship and word. -[4704.42 --> 4708.36] in an age of doubt -[4708.36 --> 4710.16] where we live, -[4711.10 --> 4712.88] where deconstruction -[4712.88 --> 4714.46] is in vogue, -[4715.46 --> 4716.64] I want to simply -[4716.64 --> 4717.56] just ask you, -[4718.44 --> 4719.96] will you doubt your doubts? -[4721.78 --> 4721.96] Right? -[4721.96 --> 4722.64] Have you ever noticed -[4722.64 --> 4724.06] that when we struggle -[4724.06 --> 4724.76] with faith, -[4725.32 --> 4726.14] when we struggle -[4726.14 --> 4726.72] to believe, -[4727.12 --> 4728.10] we don't struggle -[4728.10 --> 4728.74] neutrally? -[4730.20 --> 4730.72] Right? -[4730.72 --> 4732.00] The doubts that we have -[4732.00 --> 4733.32] have more weight -[4733.32 --> 4734.38] than the profession -[4734.38 --> 4734.80] of faith -[4734.80 --> 4735.50] that we once made. -[4736.04 --> 4737.16] We give priority -[4737.16 --> 4738.48] to the doubts. -[4738.60 --> 4739.60] That's the impact -[4739.60 --> 4740.82] of this cultural moment -[4740.82 --> 4741.34] on us. -[4741.54 --> 4742.66] That's what's changed. -[4743.86 --> 4744.34] Instead, -[4745.72 --> 4747.28] I plead with you, -[4747.98 --> 4749.14] doubt your doubts. -[4750.32 --> 4750.44] Right? -[4750.62 --> 4751.28] At minimum, -[4751.40 --> 4752.20] treat them equally. -[4753.24 --> 4753.70] And then, -[4754.34 --> 4755.02] notice this, -[4755.10 --> 4755.32] then, -[4755.70 --> 4756.72] the answer, -[4757.10 --> 4757.32] right, -[4757.32 --> 4758.54] to your doubts -[4758.54 --> 4761.18] isn't going to be proofs. -[4761.88 --> 4762.00] Right? -[4762.06 --> 4762.88] The response -[4762.88 --> 4763.54] to your doubt, -[4763.62 --> 4764.36] like Thomas, -[4764.52 --> 4766.40] needs to be worship. -[4767.84 --> 4768.06] Right? -[4768.12 --> 4768.90] Bring your doubts -[4768.90 --> 4769.56] to Jesus. -[4770.16 --> 4770.90] Bring your doubts -[4770.90 --> 4771.52] to church. -[4773.20 --> 4774.34] I believe. -[4774.86 --> 4776.22] Help my unbelief. -[4777.50 --> 4778.44] My Lord -[4778.44 --> 4780.36] and my God. -[4782.46 --> 4783.10] Worship -[4783.10 --> 4784.48] with us. -[4784.48 --> 4786.26] These are written -[4786.26 --> 4787.52] word -[4787.52 --> 4787.58] word. -[4788.16 --> 4788.50] Worship -[4788.50 --> 4789.42] brings us -[4789.42 --> 4790.48] a rootedness. -[4790.68 --> 4791.24] And now, -[4791.66 --> 4792.56] these are -[4792.56 --> 4793.48] written -[4793.48 --> 4794.78] sacrament. -[4796.16 --> 4796.88] In a moment, -[4797.02 --> 4797.70] we will take -[4797.70 --> 4798.54] Jesus in, -[4798.62 --> 4799.40] just as he commanded -[4799.40 --> 4800.02] us to do -[4800.02 --> 4800.70] in John 6. -[4800.96 --> 4801.94] We will take him -[4801.94 --> 4802.94] in through the bread -[4802.94 --> 4803.98] and the wine. -[4804.08 --> 4804.60] In a moment, -[4804.70 --> 4805.44] we will touch, -[4805.68 --> 4805.94] taste, -[4806.08 --> 4806.56] and see. -[4806.74 --> 4807.50] In a moment, -[4807.62 --> 4808.20] once again, -[4808.64 --> 4809.50] transcendence -[4809.50 --> 4810.56] will come crashing -[4810.56 --> 4812.04] through to you -[4812.04 --> 4812.72] and to me -[4812.72 --> 4814.08] as we come -[4814.08 --> 4815.52] to the table. -[4815.52 --> 4818.04] the tomb -[4818.04 --> 4818.64] is empty, -[4818.64 --> 4821.04] so our hearts -[4821.04 --> 4822.52] are full. -[4823.98 --> 4825.20] Your doubts -[4825.20 --> 4826.86] are real, -[4827.58 --> 4828.50] but come -[4828.50 --> 4829.90] in worship. -[4830.78 --> 4831.22] Come -[4831.22 --> 4832.36] to Jesus. -[4833.06 --> 4833.52] Come -[4833.52 --> 4835.34] to the table. -[4836.26 --> 4836.54] Amen? -[4836.54 --> 4838.64] Let's pray -[4838.64 --> 4839.00] together. -[4843.80 --> 4844.66] Lord Jesus, -[4845.62 --> 4846.66] here we -[4846.66 --> 4847.64] are. -[4849.96 --> 4850.82] In the midst -[4850.82 --> 4851.30] of doubts, -[4851.44 --> 4851.74] in the midst -[4851.74 --> 4852.22] of questions, -[4852.42 --> 4852.72] in the midst -[4852.72 --> 4853.60] of skepticism, -[4853.60 --> 4854.64] in the midst -[4854.64 --> 4855.50] of outright -[4855.50 --> 4856.46] unbelief, -[4856.80 --> 4857.44] help us -[4857.44 --> 4858.10] to doubt -[4858.10 --> 4859.70] our doubting. -[4859.70 --> 4862.40] help us -[4862.40 --> 4863.08] to bring -[4863.08 --> 4863.92] our doubts -[4863.92 --> 4865.30] to worship. -[4866.70 --> 4867.78] Help us -[4867.78 --> 4868.84] to test -[4868.84 --> 4870.00] our doubts -[4870.00 --> 4870.96] by worship -[4870.96 --> 4871.98] and word -[4871.98 --> 4872.64] and now -[4872.64 --> 4873.50] sacrament, -[4873.72 --> 4874.52] and so meet -[4874.52 --> 4875.22] us -[4875.22 --> 4876.82] with your grace. -[4878.26 --> 4879.04] Meet us -[4879.04 --> 4880.34] at this table, -[4880.56 --> 4880.98] Lord Jesus, -[4881.12 --> 4881.84] that we might -[4881.84 --> 4883.86] taste and see -[4883.86 --> 4884.88] that you -[4884.88 --> 4886.50] are good, -[4886.74 --> 4887.56] that we might -[4887.56 --> 4888.70] taste and see -[4888.70 --> 4889.46] that you -[4889.46 --> 4891.30] are God. -[4892.30 --> 4893.04] Lord Jesus, -[4893.16 --> 4893.56] we come -[4893.56 --> 4894.40] to this table -[4894.40 --> 4895.44] responding -[4895.44 --> 4896.18] to your -[4896.18 --> 4897.04] invitation. -[4898.12 --> 4899.00] We come -[4899.00 --> 4899.34] and we -[4899.34 --> 4899.80] profess, -[4900.02 --> 4900.54] my Lord -[4900.54 --> 4902.06] and my God. -[4902.82 --> 4903.20] Amen. -[4912.32 --> 4913.24] Our Lord -[4913.24 --> 4913.60] Jesus, -[4914.70 --> 4915.88] before he -[4915.88 --> 4916.52] suffered, -[4917.64 --> 4918.36] gave us -[4918.36 --> 4919.34] this memorial -[4919.34 --> 4920.50] of his -[4920.50 --> 4921.68] sacrifice -[4921.68 --> 4922.36] until he -[4922.36 --> 4922.98] comes again. -[4924.60 --> 4925.26] The Lord -[4925.26 --> 4925.64] Jesus, -[4925.96 --> 4926.48] on the night -[4926.48 --> 4927.00] that he was -[4927.00 --> 4927.50] betrayed, -[4928.32 --> 4929.28] took bread -[4929.28 --> 4930.66] and when he -[4930.66 --> 4931.14] had given -[4931.14 --> 4931.76] thanks, -[4932.04 --> 4932.84] he broke -[4932.84 --> 4933.60] it and said, -[4933.88 --> 4934.62] this is my -[4934.62 --> 4935.06] body, -[4935.42 --> 4936.10] which is for -[4936.10 --> 4936.42] you. -[4937.12 --> 4937.80] Do this -[4937.80 --> 4938.62] in remembrance -[4938.62 --> 4939.84] of me. -[4941.18 --> 4941.94] And in the -[4941.94 --> 4942.72] same way, -[4943.16 --> 4944.14] he took the -[4944.14 --> 4945.02] cup after -[4945.02 --> 4945.74] supper and -[4945.74 --> 4946.10] said, -[4946.10 --> 4947.40] this cup -[4947.40 --> 4948.12] is the -[4948.12 --> 4948.70] new covenant -[4948.70 --> 4949.72] in my -[4949.72 --> 4950.08] blood. -[4950.74 --> 4951.30] Do this -[4951.30 --> 4952.06] in remembrance -[4952.06 --> 4952.86] of me. -[4953.60 --> 4954.24] For whenever -[4954.24 --> 4955.18] we eat this -[4955.18 --> 4955.86] bread and -[4955.86 --> 4956.62] drink this -[4956.62 --> 4957.02] cup, -[4957.12 --> 4957.72] we proclaim -[4957.72 --> 4958.48] the Lord's -[4958.48 --> 4958.80] death -[4958.80 --> 4960.20] until he -[4960.20 --> 4961.82] comes again. -[4963.08 --> 4963.88] I'm going to -[4963.88 --> 4964.42] invite you -[4964.42 --> 4965.94] again as you -[4965.94 --> 4966.52] are able to -[4966.52 --> 4966.94] stand. -[4967.28 --> 4967.60] And we are -[4967.60 --> 4968.34] going to -[4968.34 --> 4969.80] recite and -[4969.80 --> 4970.84] profess our -[4970.84 --> 4971.86] shared faith -[4971.86 --> 4972.70] using the -[4972.70 --> 4973.34] words of the -[4973.34 --> 4973.80] Apostles' -[4973.80 --> 4974.16] Creed. -[4974.32 --> 4974.64] You will -[4974.64 --> 4975.02] see it -[4975.02 --> 4976.04] over my -[4976.04 --> 4976.22] shoulder. -[4976.32 --> 4976.54] Let's -[4976.54 --> 4976.88] stand -[4976.88 --> 4977.64] together. -[4980.16 --> 4980.90] With one -[4980.90 --> 4981.34] voice, -[4981.90 --> 4982.78] I believe -[4982.78 --> 4983.38] in God, -[4983.48 --> 4984.00] the Father -[4984.00 --> 4984.64] Almighty, -[4985.40 --> 4986.34] creator of -[4986.34 --> 4986.96] heaven and -[4986.96 --> 4987.28] earth. -[4987.94 --> 4988.64] I believe -[4988.64 --> 4989.32] in Jesus -[4989.32 --> 4989.92] Christ, -[4990.18 --> 4990.78] his only -[4990.78 --> 4991.24] son, -[4991.52 --> 4992.10] our Lord, -[4992.82 --> 4993.36] who was -[4993.36 --> 4994.20] conceived by -[4994.20 --> 4994.60] the Holy -[4994.60 --> 4995.98] Spirit and -[4995.98 --> 4996.58] born of -[4996.58 --> 4997.00] the Virgin -[4997.00 --> 4997.38] Mary. -[4998.16 --> 4998.86] He suffered -[4998.86 --> 4999.82] under Pontius -[4999.82 --> 5000.34] Pilate, -[5000.92 --> 5001.70] was crucified, -[5002.20 --> 5002.56] died, -[5002.70 --> 5003.10] and was -[5003.10 --> 5003.44] buried. -[5004.08 --> 5004.80] He descended -[5004.80 --> 5005.40] into hell. -[5006.22 --> 5006.74] The third -[5006.74 --> 5007.70] day he rose -[5007.70 --> 5008.40] again from -[5008.40 --> 5008.84] the dead. -[5009.56 --> 5010.26] He ascended -[5010.26 --> 5010.92] into heaven -[5010.92 --> 5012.08] and is seated -[5012.08 --> 5012.80] at the right -[5012.80 --> 5013.82] hand of God -[5013.82 --> 5014.44] the Father -[5014.44 --> 5014.96] Almighty. -[5015.88 --> 5016.54] From there -[5016.54 --> 5017.26] he will come -[5017.26 --> 5018.20] to judge the -[5018.20 --> 5018.98] living and -[5018.98 --> 5019.40] the dead. -[5020.24 --> 5020.98] I believe -[5020.98 --> 5021.68] in the Holy -[5021.68 --> 5022.16] Spirit, -[5022.80 --> 5023.44] the Holy -[5023.44 --> 5024.50] Catholic Church, -[5025.12 --> 5025.66] the communion -[5025.66 --> 5026.46] of saints, -[5027.20 --> 5027.78] the forgiveness -[5027.78 --> 5028.62] of sins, -[5029.26 --> 5030.02] the resurrection -[5030.02 --> 5030.92] of the body, -[5031.50 --> 5032.30] and the life -[5032.30 --> 5032.98] everlasting. -[5033.94 --> 5034.38] Amen. -[5035.18 --> 5035.78] Amen. -[5035.88 --> 5036.20] You may be -[5036.20 --> 5036.40] seated. -[5043.58 --> 5044.46] In prayer, -[5044.94 --> 5045.44] Lord, -[5045.56 --> 5046.08] our God, -[5046.16 --> 5046.52] by your -[5046.52 --> 5047.46] power you -[5047.46 --> 5048.70] raised Jesus -[5048.70 --> 5049.58] from death -[5049.58 --> 5050.32] to life. -[5051.46 --> 5051.98] Through his -[5051.98 --> 5052.74] victory over -[5052.74 --> 5053.22] the grave, -[5053.34 --> 5054.02] we are set -[5054.02 --> 5054.68] free from -[5054.68 --> 5055.18] the bonds -[5055.18 --> 5055.70] of sin -[5055.70 --> 5056.10] and the -[5056.10 --> 5056.66] fear of -[5056.66 --> 5056.94] death -[5056.94 --> 5057.70] to share -[5057.70 --> 5058.48] the glorious -[5058.48 --> 5059.18] freedom of -[5059.18 --> 5059.54] the children -[5059.54 --> 5060.02] of God. -[5060.02 --> 5060.94] in his -[5060.94 --> 5061.74] rising to -[5061.74 --> 5062.12] life, -[5062.30 --> 5062.94] you promised -[5062.94 --> 5064.00] eternal life -[5064.00 --> 5064.90] to all -[5064.90 --> 5065.50] who believe. -[5066.46 --> 5067.24] We praise -[5067.24 --> 5067.86] you that as -[5067.86 --> 5068.40] we break -[5068.40 --> 5069.08] bread in -[5069.08 --> 5069.42] faith, -[5069.54 --> 5070.02] we shall -[5070.02 --> 5070.86] know the -[5070.86 --> 5071.80] risen Christ -[5071.80 --> 5073.02] among us. -[5075.02 --> 5075.54] Come, -[5075.92 --> 5076.22] then, -[5076.70 --> 5077.34] for all -[5077.34 --> 5078.36] is ready. -[5078.94 --> 5079.80] Christ was -[5079.80 --> 5080.60] raised to -[5080.60 --> 5080.96] life. -[5081.38 --> 5082.16] Death is -[5082.16 --> 5083.18] swallowed up. -[5083.18 --> 5084.74] victory is -[5084.74 --> 5085.42] won. -[5086.32 --> 5086.72] Hallelujah. -[5091.72 --> 5092.40] Hallelujah. -[5093.20 --> 5093.32] Amen. -[5094.02 --> 5094.46] The gifts -[5094.46 --> 5095.02] of God -[5095.02 --> 5095.82] for the -[5095.82 --> 5096.90] people of -[5096.90 --> 5097.20] God. -[5098.34 --> 5099.08] As we -[5099.08 --> 5099.42] come to -[5099.42 --> 5099.92] the table, -[5100.84 --> 5101.42] we are -[5101.42 --> 5101.62] going to -[5101.62 --> 5102.44] have elders -[5102.44 --> 5103.48] invite -[5103.48 --> 5105.00] rows going -[5105.00 --> 5105.94] backward to -[5105.94 --> 5106.42] the front -[5106.42 --> 5107.62] to participate. -[5107.90 --> 5108.10] And so, -[5108.26 --> 5108.94] as we have -[5108.94 --> 5109.62] professed our -[5109.62 --> 5110.46] faith with the -[5110.46 --> 5110.90] Apostles' -[5110.90 --> 5111.24] Creed, -[5111.34 --> 5111.70] if you -[5111.70 --> 5112.40] believe that -[5112.40 --> 5112.78] to be -[5112.78 --> 5113.08] true, -[5113.40 --> 5114.14] you may -[5114.14 --> 5114.98] come to -[5114.98 --> 5115.66] this table -[5115.66 --> 5116.44] and receive -[5116.44 --> 5117.30] the sign -[5117.30 --> 5117.92] and seal -[5117.92 --> 5119.02] of God's -[5119.02 --> 5119.68] grace. -[5120.32 --> 5120.66] As you -[5120.66 --> 5121.10] come to -[5121.10 --> 5122.28] this table -[5122.28 --> 5122.98] and as we -[5122.98 --> 5123.54] move through, -[5123.66 --> 5124.22] we'll invite -[5124.22 --> 5124.78] the worship -[5124.78 --> 5125.90] leaders and -[5125.90 --> 5126.72] the worship -[5126.72 --> 5127.44] volunteers to -[5127.44 --> 5127.82] come up -[5127.82 --> 5128.84] first so -[5128.84 --> 5129.12] that they -[5129.12 --> 5129.50] can then -[5129.50 --> 5130.02] lead us -[5130.02 --> 5130.56] in singing -[5130.56 --> 5131.06] throughout. -[5131.56 --> 5131.90] If you -[5131.90 --> 5133.26] are unable -[5133.26 --> 5135.24] to come -[5135.24 --> 5135.54] to the -[5135.54 --> 5135.92] front but -[5135.92 --> 5136.40] would like -[5136.40 --> 5137.16] to receive -[5137.16 --> 5137.94] the bread -[5137.94 --> 5138.32] and the -[5138.32 --> 5138.72] juice, -[5138.96 --> 5139.46] please just -[5139.46 --> 5140.14] indicate to -[5140.14 --> 5140.90] the elders -[5140.90 --> 5141.36] who are -[5141.36 --> 5142.12] ushering in -[5142.12 --> 5142.60] the aisles -[5142.60 --> 5142.90] and they -[5142.90 --> 5143.38] will serve -[5143.38 --> 5144.24] you in -[5144.24 --> 5144.76] your seats. -[5145.20 --> 5145.58] As you -[5145.58 --> 5145.94] come to -[5145.94 --> 5146.36] the front -[5146.36 --> 5146.68] and you -[5146.68 --> 5147.30] receive the -[5147.30 --> 5147.86] bread and -[5147.86 --> 5148.58] it will be -[5148.58 --> 5149.20] passed to -[5149.20 --> 5149.46] you, -[5149.60 --> 5150.08] someone will -[5150.08 --> 5150.58] say the -[5150.58 --> 5151.20] body of -[5151.20 --> 5151.64] Christ -[5151.64 --> 5152.56] given for -[5152.56 --> 5152.80] you. -[5153.04 --> 5153.38] We then -[5153.38 --> 5153.80] invite you -[5153.80 --> 5154.32] to receive -[5154.32 --> 5154.50] it, -[5154.58 --> 5154.98] to turn -[5154.98 --> 5155.50] and pass -[5155.50 --> 5155.74] to the -[5155.74 --> 5156.28] next person -[5156.28 --> 5157.12] saying the -[5157.12 --> 5157.56] body of -[5157.56 --> 5157.86] Christ -[5157.86 --> 5158.30] given for -[5158.30 --> 5158.54] you. -[5159.04 --> 5159.34] Likewise -[5159.34 --> 5159.90] with the -[5159.90 --> 5160.18] juice, -[5160.34 --> 5160.54] as it -[5160.54 --> 5160.94] comes to -[5160.94 --> 5161.16] you, -[5161.30 --> 5161.70] someone will -[5161.70 --> 5162.48] say the -[5162.48 --> 5162.98] blood of -[5162.98 --> 5163.32] Christ -[5163.32 --> 5163.86] shed for -[5163.86 --> 5164.48] you and -[5164.48 --> 5165.02] you receive -[5165.02 --> 5165.32] it and -[5165.32 --> 5165.90] as you pass -[5167.94 --> 5168.34] Christ -[5168.34 --> 5169.54] shed for -[5169.54 --> 5169.78] you. -[5170.92 --> 5171.48] I invite -[5171.48 --> 5172.42] the worship -[5172.42 --> 5173.48] volunteers and -[5173.48 --> 5174.06] those who are -[5174.06 --> 5175.20] facilitating our -[5175.20 --> 5175.60] service to -[5175.60 --> 5175.94] come up to -[5175.94 --> 5176.30] the front -[5176.30 --> 5178.10] and receive -[5178.10 --> 5179.24] the first -[5179.24 --> 5179.84] table. -[5190.26 --> 5191.02] Big circle. -[5192.66 --> 5193.32] Lena and -[5193.32 --> 5193.54] Wes, -[5193.60 --> 5194.02] can you guys -[5194.02 --> 5194.42] just slide -[5194.42 --> 5194.86] that way? -[5197.94 --> 5207.32] body of -[5207.32 --> 5207.64] Christ -[5207.64 --> 5208.22] given for -[5208.22 --> 5208.42] you. -[5210.80 --> 5211.38] Body of -[5211.38 --> 5211.66] Christ -[5211.66 --> 5212.20] given for -[5212.20 --> 5212.36] you. -[5212.36 --> 5212.42] Amen. -[5212.42 --> 5212.92] Amen. -[5212.92 --> 5213.02] Amen. -[5213.02 --> 5213.08] Amen. -[5213.08 --> 5213.16] Amen. -[5213.16 --> 5213.22] Amen. -[5213.22 --> 5213.28] Amen. -[5213.28 --> 5213.32] Amen. -[5227.94 --> 5253.72] Eat and -[5253.72 --> 5254.10] remember. -[5254.10 --> 5254.26] Amen. -[5254.26 --> 5254.94] Amen. -[5254.94 --> 5255.32] Amen. -[5255.32 --> 5256.20] Amen. -[5256.20 --> 5256.42] Amen. -[5256.42 --> 5256.68] Amen. -[5256.68 --> 5257.48] Amen. -[5257.48 --> 5273.06] blood of Christ shed for you -[5273.06 --> 5278.98] blood of Christ shed for you -[5287.48 --> 5317.46] blood of Christ shed for you -[5317.48 --> 5328.16] drink and believe -[5347.48 --> 5350.48] you -[5350.48 --> 5354.48] blood of Christ shed for you -[5354.48 --> 5358.48] blood of Christ shed for you -[5358.48 --> 5362.48] blood of Christ shed for you -[5362.48 --> 5381.48] blood of Christ shed for you -[5381.48 --> 5394.02] I am the bread of life. -[5394.02 --> 5399.66] They who come to me shall not hunger. -[5400.56 --> 5406.44] They who believe shall not thirst. -[5406.44 --> 5417.44] No one can come to me unless the Father draw them. -[5418.44 --> 5423.44] And I will raise them up. -[5424.44 --> 5430.56] And I will raise them up. -[5430.56 --> 5442.56] And I will raise them up on the last day. -[5442.56 --> 5448.92] The bread that I give is my flesh. -[5449.34 --> 5454.82] For the life of the world. -[5455.30 --> 5460.56] And they who eat of this bread. -[5462.26 --> 5466.00] They shall live forever. -[5466.00 --> 5471.90] They shall live forever. -[5472.90 --> 5478.00] And I will raise them up. -[5478.00 --> 5484.00] And I will raise them up. -[5484.00 --> 5496.00] And I will raise them up on the last day. -[5496.00 --> 5501.90] I am the resurrection. -[5503.90 --> 5508.44] I am the life. -[5508.90 --> 5514.00] May you believe in me. -[5514.00 --> 5520.00] Even if they die. -[5520.90 --> 5525.00] They shall live forever. -[5525.00 --> 5531.00] And I will raise them up. -[5531.00 --> 5537.00] And I will raise them up. -[5537.00 --> 5549.00] And I will raise them up on the last day. -[5549.00 --> 5574.00] And I will raise them up on the last day. -[5574.00 --> 5590.72] Are you hurting and broken within? -[5592.72 --> 5596.30] Overwhelmed by the weight of your sin? -[5596.64 --> 5598.78] Jesus is calling. -[5598.78 --> 5605.78] Have you come to the end of yourself? -[5605.78 --> 5611.20] Do you thirst for a drink from the well? -[5611.20 --> 5613.72] Jesus is calling. -[5613.72 --> 5622.72] Oh, come to the altar. -[5622.72 --> 5624.72] Father, the Father. -[5624.72 --> 5628.76] Father, the Father's hearts are open wide. -[5628.76 --> 5640.72] Forgiveness was bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[5640.72 --> 5642.72] Jesus is calling. -[5642.72 --> 5647.72] Jesus is calling. -[5647.72 --> 5653.72] Leave and hide your regrets and mistakes. -[5653.72 --> 5655.72] Come today. -[5655.72 --> 5657.72] There's no reason to wait. -[5657.72 --> 5659.72] Jesus is calling. -[5659.72 --> 5661.72] Jesus is calling. -[5661.72 --> 5666.72] Bring your sorrows and turn it down for joy. -[5666.72 --> 5672.72] From the ashes a new life is born. -[5672.72 --> 5674.72] Jesus is calling. -[5674.72 --> 5675.72] Jesus is calling. -[5675.72 --> 5676.72] Jesus is calling. -[5676.72 --> 5677.72] Jesus is calling. -[5677.72 --> 5681.72] Oh, come to the altar. -[5681.72 --> 5682.72] Jesus is calling. -[5683.72 --> 5686.72] He was calling. -[5686.72 --> 5688.72] No, not to church. -[5688.72 --> 5696.72] Forgiveness was bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[5696.72 --> 5697.72] Jesus is calling. -[5697.72 --> 5702.72] He kom to, be unto the altar. -[5702.72 --> 5705.94] Father's eyes are open. -[5707.14 --> 5711.14] Forgiveness was bought with -[5711.14 --> 5716.34] the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[5716.34 --> 5731.08] Oh, what a Savior. -[5733.08 --> 5736.98] Isn't he wonderful? -[5736.98 --> 5740.56] Sing hallelujah. -[5741.60 --> 5744.06] Christ is risen. -[5746.34 --> 5751.80] Bow down before him. -[5752.38 --> 5756.66] For he is Lord of all. -[5757.14 --> 5759.60] Sing hallelujah. -[5760.72 --> 5763.08] Christ is risen. -[5763.08 --> 5769.14] Oh, what a Savior. -[5771.36 --> 5775.02] Isn't he wonderful? -[5775.02 --> 5778.02] Sing hallelujah. -[5779.44 --> 5782.16] Christ is risen. -[5785.16 --> 5789.02] Bow down before him. -[5790.38 --> 5794.02] For he is Lord of all. -[5794.02 --> 5797.02] Sing hallelujah. -[5797.02 --> 5798.02] Sing hallelujah. -[5798.02 --> 5799.02] Sing hallelujah. -[5799.02 --> 5804.02] He is Lord of all. -[5804.02 --> 5806.02] He is Lord of all. -[5806.02 --> 5809.02] Come to the altar. -[5809.02 --> 5814.02] The Father's arms are open. -[5814.02 --> 5819.02] Forgiveness was bought with -[5819.02 --> 5824.02] the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[5824.02 --> 5829.02] O come to the altar. -[5829.02 --> 5833.02] The Father's arms are open. -[5833.02 --> 5838.02] Forgiveness was bought with -[5838.02 --> 5844.02] the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[5844.02 --> 5845.02] 様子 musical喔. -[5845.02 --> 5846.02] Of the Judaica叫做 mad into Terenica. -[5846.02 --> 5863.28] Bear your cross as you wait for the crown -[5863.28 --> 5868.64] Tell the world of the treasure you found -[5868.64 --> 5898.62] guitar solo -[5898.64 --> 5910.64] guitar solo -[5910.64 --> 5917.76] Man of sorrow's hand of thought -[5917.76 --> 5922.22] By his own betrayed -[5922.22 --> 5930.22] The sin of hell and wrath of God -[5930.78 --> 5936.22] Has been on Jesus' name -[5936.22 --> 5947.22] Silent as he stood accused -[5947.22 --> 5954.22] He'd and mocked and scored -[5954.22 --> 5960.22] Thou in tomb of Father's will -[5960.22 --> 5966.22] He took the crown of gold -[5966.22 --> 5973.46] Oh, the rugged cross, my salvation -[5973.46 --> 5980.22] Where your love poured out over me -[5980.22 --> 5986.22] Now my soul cries out, Alleluia -[5986.22 --> 5992.22] Praise and honor all to me -[5992.22 --> 6004.22] Send of heaven God's old son -[6004.22 --> 6010.22] To purchase and redeem -[6010.22 --> 6018.22] And reconcile the very ones -[6018.22 --> 6022.22] Who nailed him to live a dream -[6022.22 --> 6030.22] Oh, the rugged cross, my salvation -[6030.22 --> 6036.22] Where your love poured out over me -[6036.22 --> 6044.22] Now my soul cries out, Alleluia -[6044.22 --> 6050.22] Praise and honor all to me -[6050.22 --> 6058.22] Now my debt is paid -[6058.22 --> 6060.22] It is paid in full -[6060.22 --> 6064.22] By the precious blood -[6064.22 --> 6066.22] That my Jesus spilled -[6066.22 --> 6070.22] Now the curse of sin -[6070.22 --> 6072.22] Has no hold on me -[6072.22 --> 6074.22] Has no hold on me -[6074.22 --> 6076.22] Whom the Son sets free -[6076.22 --> 6078.22] Oh, it's free -[6078.22 --> 6080.22] Oh, it's free indeed -[6080.22 --> 6082.22] Now my debt is paid -[6082.22 --> 6084.22] Now my debt is paid -[6084.22 --> 6086.22] It is paid in full -[6086.22 --> 6090.22] By the precious blood -[6090.22 --> 6092.22] That my Jesus spilled -[6092.22 --> 6094.22] Now my debt is paid -[6094.22 --> 6096.22] It is paid in full -[6096.22 --> 6098.22] By the precious blood -[6098.22 --> 6100.22] That my Jesus spilled -[6100.22 --> 6102.22] Now the curse of sin -[6102.22 --> 6104.22] Has no hold on me -[6104.22 --> 6106.22] Oh, it's free indeed -[6106.22 --> 6107.22] Oh, it's free indeed -[6107.22 --> 6110.22] Oh, that rugged cross -[6110.22 --> 6112.22] My salvation -[6112.22 --> 6120.22] Where your love poured out over me -[6120.22 --> 6126.22] Now my soul cries out, Alleluia -[6126.22 --> 6132.22] Praise and honor all to me -[6132.22 --> 6142.22] See the stone is rolled away -[6142.22 --> 6148.22] Behold the empty tomb -[6148.22 --> 6150.22] Alleluia -[6150.22 --> 6152.22] Alleluia -[6152.22 --> 6154.22] God be praised -[6154.22 --> 6158.22] He's risen from the grave -[6158.22 --> 6162.22] Oh, that rugged cross -[6162.22 --> 6164.22] My salvation -[6164.22 --> 6166.22] Where your love poured out over me -[6166.22 --> 6168.22] My salvation -[6168.22 --> 6172.22] Where your love poured out over me -[6172.22 --> 6176.22] Now my soul cries out, Alleluia -[6176.22 --> 6180.22] Praise and honor all to me -[6180.22 --> 6182.22] Praise and honor all to me -[6182.22 --> 6187.40] Praise and honor unto me -[6187.40 --> 6194.52] Praise and honor unto me -[6212.22 --> 6239.46] Before the throne of God above -[6239.46 --> 6244.74] I have a strong and perfect plea -[6244.74 --> 6249.92] The great high priest whose name is love -[6249.92 --> 6254.46] Whoever lives and pleads for me -[6254.98 --> 6260.16] My name is graven on his hands -[6260.16 --> 6264.46] My name is written on his heart -[6264.46 --> 6269.46] I know that while in heaven he stands -[6270.04 --> 6274.46] No tongue can bid me hence depart -[6274.46 --> 6279.46] No tongue can bid me hence depart -[6279.46 --> 6291.46] When Satan tempts me to despair -[6292.16 --> 6297.46] And tells me of the guilt within -[6297.46 --> 6302.66] Upward I look and see him there -[6302.66 --> 6307.64] Who made an end of all my sin -[6307.64 --> 6313.06] Because the sinless Savior died -[6313.06 --> 6318.02] My sinful soul is counted free -[6318.02 --> 6322.98] For God the just is satisfied -[6322.98 --> 6328.10] To look on him and pardon me -[6328.10 --> 6333.52] To look on him and pardon me -[6333.52 --> 6345.48] Behold him there the risen Lamb -[6345.48 --> 6350.30] My perfect spotless righteousness -[6350.30 --> 6355.72] The great unchangeable I am -[6355.72 --> 6360.30] The King of glory and of grace -[6360.30 --> 6365.30] One with himself I cannot die -[6365.30 --> 6370.30] My soul is purchased by his blood -[6370.30 --> 6374.30] My life is hid with Christ -[6374.30 --> 6376.22] My life is hid with Christ on high -[6376.22 --> 6381.30] With Christ my Savior and my God -[6381.30 --> 6386.36] With Christ my Savior and my God -[6386.36 --> 6391.64] One with himself I cannot die -[6391.64 --> 6397.06] My soul is purchased by his blood -[6397.06 --> 6402.02] My life is hid with Christ on high -[6402.02 --> 6407.64] With Christ my Savior and my God -[6407.64 --> 6413.64] With Christ my Savior and my God -[6413.64 --> 6415.64] He is coming on the cliffs -[6415.64 --> 6417.32] He is coming on the cliffs -[6417.32 --> 6442.38] It's coming on the clouds -[6442.38 --> 6447.46] Kings and kingdoms will bow down -[6447.46 --> 6453.66] And every chain will break -[6453.66 --> 6458.26] As broken hearts declare His praise -[6458.26 --> 6462.52] For who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[6463.44 --> 6469.90] Our God is a lion, the lion to him -[6469.90 --> 6475.90] He's roaring with power and fighting our battles -[6475.90 --> 6480.84] And every evil bow before Him -[6480.84 --> 6487.16] Our God is a lamb, the lamb that was slain -[6487.16 --> 6493.06] For the sins of the world, His blood breaks the chains -[6493.06 --> 6498.98] And every evil bow before the lion and the lamb -[6498.98 --> 6504.98] Every evil bow before Him -[6504.98 --> 6521.98] So open up the gates and wait before the King of kings -[6521.98 --> 6527.98] The God who comes to save -[6527.98 --> 6533.98] Who's near to set the captives free? -[6533.98 --> 6537.98] For who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[6537.98 --> 6543.98] Our God is a lion, the lion to him -[6543.98 --> 6549.98] He's roaring with power and fighting our battles -[6549.98 --> 6555.98] And every evil bow before Him -[6555.98 --> 6560.98] Our God is a lamb, the lamb that was slain -[6560.98 --> 6566.98] For the sins of the world, His blood breaks the chains -[6566.98 --> 6568.98] And every evil bow before Him -[6568.98 --> 6572.98] And every evil bow before Him -[6572.98 --> 6578.98] And every evil bow before Him -[6578.98 --> 6588.98] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[6588.98 --> 6595.98] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[6595.98 --> 6599.88] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[6601.62 --> 6605.62] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[6607.54 --> 6609.86] Who can stop the Lord? -[6613.00 --> 6618.16] Our God is a lion, the Lion of Judah. -[6618.16 --> 6624.22] He's roaring with power and fighting our battles. -[6624.22 --> 6628.98] And every knee will bow before Him. -[6629.68 --> 6635.16] Our God is a lamb, the lamb that was slain. -[6635.64 --> 6641.10] For the sins of the world, His blood breaks the chains. -[6641.72 --> 6646.14] And every knee will bow before the Lion of Judah. -[6646.14 --> 6651.98] And every knee will bow before Him. -[6654.22 --> 6658.20] The Lion of Judah -[6658.20 --> 6667.02] Where we ain't and by the Holy Geb -[6667.02 --> 6670.38] And every knee will bow before Him. -[6670.38 --> 6700.36] Thank you. -[6700.38 --> 6730.36] Thank you. -[6730.38 --> 6732.38] Thank you. -[6760.38 --> 6762.38] Thank you. -[6790.38 --> 6792.38] Thank you. -[6792.38 --> 6794.38] Thank you. -[6822.38 --> 6824.38] Thank you. -[6824.38 --> 6826.38] Thank you. -[6826.38 --> 6828.38] Thank you. -[6856.38 --> 6858.38] Thank you. -[6886.38 --> 6888.38] Thank you. -[6888.38 --> 6890.38] Thank you. -[6890.38 --> 6892.38] Thank you. -[6892.38 --> 6894.38] Thank you. -[6894.38 --> 6896.38] Thank you. -[6924.38 --> 6926.38] Thank you. -[6926.38 --> 6930.38] Praise the Father. -[6930.38 --> 6932.38] Praise the Son. -[6932.38 --> 6936.38] Praise the Spirit. -[6936.38 --> 6940.38] Three in one. -[6940.38 --> 6946.38] God of glory, majesty. -[6946.38 --> 6954.38] Praise forever to the King of Kings. -[6954.38 --> 6964.38] Praise forever to the King of Kings. -[6964.38 --> 6966.38] Amen. -[6966.38 --> 6968.38] Amen. -[6968.38 --> 6970.38] Amen. -[6970.38 --> 6972.38] Amen. -[6972.38 --> 6980.38] As we go into this week, go, I pray, nourished by worship, word, and sacrament. -[6980.38 --> 6984.38] Go this week with your faith strengthened. -[6984.38 --> 6996.38] Go this week doubting your doubts to know with certainty that the tomb is empty, that our Lord Jesus Christ is raised, and that he goes with you. -[6996.38 --> 7002.38] Go also with an invitation to stick around afterwards for a time of fellowship and celebrating together. -[7002.38 --> 7012.38] As well, during children's worship time, the kids were in the multipurpose room painting the windows in stained glass style and shape. -[7012.38 --> 7022.38] And so as you exit and drive out the way, you might see that and encourage you to go look at that as well from the outside. -[7022.38 --> 7024.38] Because it's not as cool from the inside. -[7024.38 --> 7026.38] So I was told. -[7026.38 --> 7034.38] Also, if you would like to connect with me following worship and discuss whichever or ask your questions, I will be at the Connect booth. -[7034.38 --> 7036.38] You can grab me there. -[7036.38 --> 7039.38] Receive the blessing of God as we go. -[7042.38 --> 7046.38] May God go before you to lead you. -[7046.38 --> 7049.38] May God go behind you to guard you. -[7049.38 --> 7053.38] May God go beneath you to uphold you. -[7053.38 --> 7056.38] And may God go beside you to befriend you. -[7056.38 --> 7059.38] Do not be afraid. -[7059.38 --> 7062.38] But let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[7062.38 --> 7064.38] Do not be afraid. -[7064.38 --> 7070.38] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[7070.38 --> 7072.38] Amen. -[7072.38 --> 7089.38] May God go beside you. -[7089.38 --> 7093.38] May God bless you. -[7093.38 --> 7097.38] May God bless you. -[7097.38 --> 7108.52] There is our Redeemer, Jesus, God's old Son. -[7108.52 --> 7119.98] Precious Lamb of God, Messiah, O Holy One. -[7119.98 --> 7132.82] Thank you, O my Father, for giving us your Son. -[7132.82 --> 7144.24] And leading your Spirit to the work of earthly Son. -[7144.24 --> 7157.36] Jesus, my Redeemer, Name above all names. -[7157.36 --> 7168.16] Precious Lamb of God, Messiah, O for sinners' sake. -[7168.16 --> 7180.40] Thank you, O my Father, for giving us your Son. -[7181.52 --> 7192.16] And leading your Spirit till the work on earth is done. -[7192.16 --> 7206.56] When I stand in glory, I will see His face. -[7206.56 --> 7218.62] There I'll serve my King forever in that holy place. -[7218.62 --> 7230.94] Thank you, O my Father, for giving us your Son. -[7230.94 --> 7242.52] And leading your Spirit till the work on earth is done. -[7242.52 --> 7255.02] Thank you, O my Father, for giving us your Son. -[7255.02 --> 7269.24] And leading your Spirit till the work on earth is done. -[7272.52 --> 7274.52] I then shall live as one who's God. -[7274.52 --> 7277.52] I then shall live as one who's God. -[7277.52 --> 7281.52] I then shall live as one who's God. -[7281.52 --> 7291.52] I then shall live as one who's been forgiven. -[7291.52 --> 7304.84] I then shall live as one who's been forgiven. -[7304.84 --> 7316.84] I'll walk with joy to know my debts are paid. -[7316.84 --> 7326.84] I know my name is clear before my Father. -[7326.84 --> 7328.84] I am His Father. -[7328.84 --> 7332.84] I am His child. -[7332.84 --> 7338.84] And I am not afraid. -[7338.84 --> 7343.84] So greatly pardoned. -[7343.84 --> 7348.84] And I'll forgive my brother. -[7348.84 --> 7350.84] The law of love. -[7350.84 --> 7360.84] The law of love I gladly will obey. -[7360.84 --> 7368.84] I then shall live as one who's learned compassion. -[7368.84 --> 7389.84] compassion. I've been so loved that I'll risk loving too. I know how fear builds walls instead -[7389.84 --> 7412.98] of bridges. I'll dare to see another's point of view. And when relationships demand commitment, -[7412.98 --> 7434.98] then I'll be there to care and follow through. Your kingdom come around and through and in me. -[7434.98 --> 7456.98] Your power and glory let them shine through me. Your hallowed name, O may I bear with honor. -[7456.98 --> 7478.36] And may your giving kingdom come in me. The bread of life, O may I share with honor. -[7478.36 --> 7489.78] And may you feed a hungry world through me. diff --git a/Sunday Worship March 26 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship March 26 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2403cff2bb562f5e7e81d4c5187c13c9e71dd4d9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship March 26 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,79 +0,0 @@ -• Worship and praise to God -• Waymaker, miracle worker, and promise keeper in darkness -• God's presence and work in lives -• Prayer and faith in the midst of challenges -• Upcoming events or projects (Tree Tag) -• Discussion of a person wearing a hat and carrying a whip -• Reference to parkour -• Introduction to the game "Treat Tag" in which participants give treats or encouragement to others -• Explanation of how to play "Treat Tag" -• Invitation to participate in church activities, including a baseball team and an event on Saturday -• Introduction to worship and announcements -• Easter worship service with multiple churches -• Bible study and lunch at the Molenkamp's residence -• Worship service at Sunridge Gardens on April 1st -• Invitation to join in worship at Sunridge Gardens -• Passing the peace of Christ during worship service -• Call to worship from Psalm 95 -• Affirmation of faith in God the Father Almighty -• Song "Holy, Holy, Holy" -• The love of God and the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ -• Bringing failures, addictions, and sins to the foot of the cross for redemption -• Defeating the power of hell and living in freedom -• Praising God for His wonders of love -• Turn your eyes upon Jesus for comfort, strength, and guidance -• Overcoming doubts, fears, and struggles through faith in Christ -• The speaker sings and praises God, saying they are a child of God and no longer a slave to fear -• The importance of safe water is discussed, with Life Water Canada mentioned as an organization that helps provide clean water in Africa and Haiti -• Donations for various causes, including the budget and special offerings for Life Water Canada and Edjudeo, are encouraged -• A devotional reading from Psalm 62 is shared -• Discussion of a hymn or song lyrics -• Invitation of children to come up front -• Interaction with a puppet named Hank -• Announcement that Hank was asked to lead children's worship time -• Discussion about the story of Jesus and the road to Emmaus -• Discussion about a child's sadness and plans for the day -• Children's worship time and prayer -• Family prayer concerns: various health issues and hospitalizations -• Prayers for safe travels, healing, and comfort in times of loss -• Prayer request for John Koning's invasive cancer diagnosis -• Introduction to a church service with a prayer for blessings -• Reflection on love for the church community and fellowship -• Invitation to newcomers to participate in worship -• Opening of the word, continuing a series in Romans (chapters 6:1-14) -• Reading from Romans 6:1-14 -• The speaker learned video editing skills during the COVID-19 pandemic -• Mastery can be achieved through dedication and practice, citing Malcolm Gladwell's "10,000 hours" rule -• Gospel mastery is related to understanding one's true spiritual state and need for grace -• According to Paul in Romans, human attempts to earn salvation through good deeds are insufficient -• The problem is not that people commit sins, but that they are spiritually dead in sin -• The Christian gospel offers a received righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ, which is distinct from other world religions. -• Salvation is not achieved through good works, but rather is a free gift -• The concept of salvation as a reward for good deeds is hard to comprehend due to societal influences -• Paul anticipates the idea that people apply the concept of good works to grace and argues against it -• This idea leads to thinking that if saved by grace, one can continue sinning because grace will cover it -• Paul counters this by explaining that we are dead to sin through Jesus' death on the cross -• The gospel gives us new life, which is achieved through death (Jesus') and transforms our lives -• Key to transformation is understanding what it means to have died to sin -• We were previously slaves to sinful desires, but now we have the ability to resist and rebel against them due to our union with Christ -• Power of God vs. power of Satan -• Analogy of an evil military force being overthrown by a good army representing the struggle between sin and Jesus in one's life -• Baptism as a spiritual metaphor for death, burial, and resurrection with Christ -• Union with Jesus through faith bringing new creation reality and freedom from slavery to sin -• Gospel mastery experienced through objective certainty of the gospel leading to epistemic assurance and union with Jesus. -• Faith is not contrary to reason, but rather it comes with assurance and certainty -• The old self is crucified with Christ, freeing believers from slavery to sin -• There is still a struggle with sin in Christian life, but it is a sign of a new ruler and reality -• The gospel offers mastery in newness of life, displacing the dark forces and rulers of this world -• The war against sin is real, but for those whose hearts belong to Jesus, the victory has already been won. -• The power of God and the reign of Christ in one's life -• Overcoming sin and death through faith in Jesus Christ -• Living a life of glorious obedience to God -• Being called out of darkness into light and experiencing the gospel -• Being a holy people, exemplified by living according to Scripture (specifically 1 Peter 2:9-12) -• Responding with joy and gratitude for God's love and blessings -• The importance of prayer and fellowship in one's walk with God -• The speaker reflects on God's greatness and power -• They express confidence in God's love and plans despite troubles in the world -• The repetition of "You shine" emphasizing God's presence and guidance -• Gratitude expressed to an individual or entity (Dean Ariel Page) for their work or leadership \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship March 26 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship March 26 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b89fc64d5c181e15df3199277dd8231a42a85517..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship March 26 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1133 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.00] From you -[30.00 --> 52.50] You are here -[52.50 --> 56.42] Moving in arms -[56.42 --> 59.50] I worship you -[59.50 --> 63.04] I worship you -[63.04 --> 66.68] You are here -[66.68 --> 70.66] Working in this place -[70.66 --> 73.82] I worship you -[73.82 --> 77.24] I worship you -[77.24 --> 80.78] You are here -[80.78 --> 84.44] Moving in arms -[84.44 --> 87.92] I worship you -[87.92 --> 91.46] I worship you -[91.46 --> 94.84] You are here -[94.84 --> 98.88] Working in this place -[98.88 --> 101.46] I worship you -[101.46 --> 107.00] I worship you -[107.00 --> 109.00] I worship you -[109.00 --> 110.16] You are waymaker -[110.16 --> 111.88] Miracle work -[111.88 --> 115.54] Promise keep light in the darkness -[115.54 --> 117.10] My God -[117.10 --> 120.00] That is who you are -[120.00 --> 123.54] You are waymaker -[123.54 --> 124.54] You are waymaker -[124.54 --> 125.54] Miracle work -[125.54 --> 129.66] Promise keep light in the darkness -[129.66 --> 131.26] My God -[131.26 --> 133.54] That is who you are -[133.54 --> 137.30] You are here -[137.30 --> 141.18] Touching every heart -[141.18 --> 146.72] I worship you -[146.72 --> 147.72] I worship you -[147.72 --> 148.72] I worship you -[148.72 --> 149.72] I worship you -[149.72 --> 150.72] I worship you -[150.72 --> 151.14] You are here -[151.14 --> 152.34] Healing every arm -[152.34 --> 154.34] Healing every arm -[154.34 --> 154.88] You are here -[154.88 --> 157.88] Oh I worship you -[157.88 --> 158.88] Jesus -[158.88 --> 159.88] I worship you -[159.88 --> 161.88] I worship you -[161.88 --> 163.40] You're turning lives around -[163.40 --> 165.30] You are here -[165.30 --> 165.88] Oh -[165.88 --> 168.88] Turning lives around -[168.88 --> 177.42] I worship you -[177.42 --> 179.42] I worship you -[179.42 --> 180.42] I worship you -[180.42 --> 181.26] You are here -[181.26 --> 185.42] I worship you -[185.42 --> 186.96] I worship you -[186.96 --> 187.96] I worship you -[187.96 --> 189.96] I worship you -[189.96 --> 190.96] I worship you -[190.96 --> 191.96] You are here -[191.96 --> 193.96] You are waymaker -[193.96 --> 195.96] Miracle work -[195.96 --> 199.96] Promise keep light in the darkness -[199.96 --> 200.96] My God -[200.96 --> 203.96] That is who you are -[203.96 --> 205.96] Yeah, you're the waymaker -[205.96 --> 206.96] Waymaker -[206.96 --> 209.96] Miracle work -[209.96 --> 213.96] Promise keep light in the darkness -[213.96 --> 215.50] My God -[215.50 --> 218.70] That is who you are -[218.70 --> 220.26] Sing it again -[220.26 --> 221.76] You are here -[221.76 --> 222.50] Waymaker -[222.50 --> 224.50] Miracle work -[224.50 --> 228.50] Promise keep light in the darkness -[228.50 --> 229.50] My God -[229.50 --> 231.50] That is who you are -[231.50 --> 233.36] Holy is who you are -[233.36 --> 233.50] Jesus -[233.50 --> 234.50] Waymaker -[234.50 --> 238.50] Miracle work -[238.50 --> 242.50] Promise keep light in the darkness -[242.50 --> 244.04] Yes, my God -[244.04 --> 245.04] That is -[245.04 --> 246.04] Sing it again -[246.04 --> 247.24] That is who you are -[247.24 --> 250.96] Oh, that is who you are -[250.96 --> 254.16] And that is who you are -[254.16 --> 257.92] Oh, and that is who you are -[257.92 --> 260.96] That is who you are -[260.96 --> 261.80] My Jesus -[261.80 --> 264.80] That is who you are -[264.80 --> 267.96] That is who you are -[267.96 --> 269.04] Oh, you're true -[269.04 --> 270.82] God -[270.82 --> 272.38] That is who you are -[272.38 --> 275.48] Oh, that is who you are -[275.58 --> 276.92] My Jesus -[276.92 --> 277.60] pray -[277.60 --> 277.66] Yeah -[277.70 --> 278.94] Oh, I'm bornulum -[278.94 --> 281.58] before me -[281.58 --> 282.68] faith in the darkness -[282.68 --> 303.70] Let's sing this together. -[303.70 --> 305.12] Even when I don't see it. -[305.30 --> 306.14] Come on, even when. -[312.68 --> 320.22] Come on. -[320.22 --> 322.90] Even when I don't see it. -[322.90 --> 323.78] You're working. -[323.78 --> 326.44] Even when I don't feel it. -[326.44 --> 327.20] You're working. -[327.20 --> 328.90] You never stop. -[328.90 --> 330.78] You never stop working. -[342.68 --> 345.10] We're back. -[345.10 --> 346.10] Hey. -[346.10 --> 347.10] We're back. -[347.10 --> 348.10] We're back. -[348.10 --> 348.62] Have you looked at your calendar lately? -[348.62 --> 349.92] Have you looked at your calendar lately? -[349.92 --> 351.74] Guess what's happening in April? -[351.74 --> 352.78] Guess what's happening in April. -[352.78 --> 353.78] Tree tag? -[353.78 --> 354.78] Tree tag? -[354.78 --> 355.78] Tree tag? -[355.78 --> 356.78] Oh, hey Josh. -[356.78 --> 357.78] Good to have you here. -[357.78 --> 358.78] What are we gonna do for a video this year? -[358.78 --> 360.08] What are we gonna do for a video this year? -[360.08 --> 361.26] Oh, don't worry, guys. -[361.26 --> 362.26] Oh, don't worry guys. -[362.26 --> 363.26] I've got you covered. -[363.26 --> 364.26] Oh man, I'm outta here. -[364.26 --> 365.26] Oh man, I'm outta here. -[365.26 --> 366.26] Where did she get that hat? -[366.26 --> 367.26] Where did she get that hat? -[367.26 --> 368.64] And what's with the whip? -[368.64 --> 369.62] And what's with the whip? -[372.68 --> 394.60] Parkour! -[394.60 --> 395.08] Parkour! -[395.08 --> 395.64] Parkour! -[395.64 --> 396.08] Parkour! -[396.08 --> 396.60] Parkour! -[402.68 --> 409.68] Parkour! -[409.68 --> 410.68] Parkour! -[410.68 --> 411.68] Parkour! -[414.68 --> 415.68] Parkour! -[415.68 --> 417.68] Parkour! -[417.68 --> 419.68] Parkour! -[419.68 --> 421.68] Parkour! -[421.68 --> 422.68] Parkour! -[422.68 --> 427.68] Parkour! -[427.68 --> 435.06] Josh, you're not supposed to steal treats. -[435.06 --> 437.14] You just have to give them. -[437.74 --> 438.74] Throughout the month of April, -[438.74 --> 439.74] throughout the month of April, -[439.92 --> 443.00] we play a game called Treat Tech. -[443.06 --> 445.94] In this game, you have a chance to bless someone you know -[445.94 --> 449.52] or someone you don't with some candy or some candy -[449.52 --> 451.40] or a card, a note of encouragement, -[451.56 --> 455.66] anything you can think of that would make someone else -[455.66 --> 456.68] feel better about their day. -[456.68 --> 460.10] And remember, in Treat, Tag, Tag, Tag, Tag, -[460.10 --> 461.18] Tag, Tag, people you know, -[461.18 --> 464.48] but also Tag, people you don't yet know. -[464.48 --> 468.82] And if you get tagged, go ahead and tag one, two, five, -[468.82 --> 474.60] or ten other people so that the game can just keep on rolling -[474.60 --> 476.08] through the community. -[476.30 --> 479.16] Below this video or in our weekly, -[479.16 --> 484.62] you will find a link to a card that you can use -[484.62 --> 488.04] when you give Treat, Tag, so that they can understand -[488.04 --> 490.00] what is next. -[490.08 --> 492.96] Don't forget to post it on social media -[492.96 --> 496.18] as we go through so that everyone can see this game -[496.18 --> 498.32] happening in front of them. -[498.32 --> 502.24] And lastly, don't wait to be tagged. -[502.24 --> 505.22] Go ahead and start tagging. -[505.22 --> 508.64] Speaking of which, Treat Tag is now, let's get going. -[508.64 --> 509.10] To the Jeep! -[509.44 --> 510.12] To the Jeep! -[510.68 --> 511.48] You coming, Josh? -[511.72 --> 512.50] You coming, Josh? -[512.74 --> 514.82] Oh, my face! -[514.94 --> 515.82] My face! -[516.02 --> 516.44] See you later. -[516.44 --> 516.66] Okay. -[517.02 --> 517.56] See you later. -[517.64 --> 517.68] See you later. -[517.68 --> 526.14] Guys. -[526.14 --> 526.72] Guys. -[526.72 --> 527.16] Guys. -[527.42 --> 527.84] Guys. -[528.34 --> 528.82] Guys. -[529.06 --> 529.72] Where are you? -[530.10 --> 530.74] Where are you? -[531.14 --> 532.14] I can't see anything. -[532.24 --> 533.12] I can't see anything. -[533.26 --> 534.22] I can't feel my toes. -[534.32 --> 535.36] I can't feel my toes. -[536.08 --> 536.94] Where's my hat? -[537.34 --> 537.94] Where's my hat? -[547.68 --> 557.22] I feel a lot. -[557.32 --> 557.98] There it is. -[558.04 --> 558.54] Good morning. -[559.10 --> 559.58] Good morning. -[559.88 --> 561.40] My name is Yellow Eminet. -[561.82 --> 563.60] Welcome to worship. -[564.52 --> 565.60] My name is Chris. -[565.76 --> 566.96] I'm one of the pastors here. -[566.96 --> 571.52] And I'm grateful you are here worshiping with us today. -[572.08 --> 575.20] As you saw, Treat Tag starts in April. -[575.20 --> 578.88] And we're going to continue running with that. -[579.92 --> 585.16] But there will be more information in the e-bulletin or the midweek memo coming this week. -[585.24 --> 590.98] If you don't receive the e-bulletin or the midweek memo, connect with the office. -[591.44 --> 593.70] And they will make sure you get on that list. -[593.84 --> 600.28] Or email communications at licrc.ca and you will get all that information. -[600.62 --> 604.72] As we worship today, we've got a couple announcements to start us off. -[604.72 --> 607.54] And so I'm going to invite Kevin and Josh up to the front. -[608.26 --> 610.58] And they will, in turn, give their announcements. -[616.34 --> 618.72] Our church has started a baseball team. -[619.94 --> 621.86] We're the Emanuel Isotopes. -[622.70 --> 625.90] And we play in the Church Langley Slow Pitch League. -[626.58 --> 628.08] It's going to be very exciting. -[628.54 --> 631.54] We are looking for a couple more ladies to join the team. -[631.54 --> 638.08] So if you are interested in playing slow pitch and you are a lady, come chat with me after the service. -[638.26 --> 641.50] And you can be wearing this hat along with everyone else. -[642.24 --> 642.52] Thanks. -[643.48 --> 645.82] Oh, and we have an event next week Saturday. -[645.92 --> 646.42] Check your emails. -[646.42 --> 652.62] This Sunday is the Yam Worship Night. -[653.44 --> 656.16] Tonight it's 7 p.m. at Maple Ridge CRC. -[657.16 --> 658.90] We would love to see you guys all there. -[659.04 --> 659.76] It's going to be great. -[660.78 --> 667.24] Fleetwood, Willoughby, us, and Maple Ridge CRC are all worshiping together around Easter, the resurrection. -[667.42 --> 668.04] It's going to be awesome. -[668.04 --> 669.66] And there's snacks. -[670.30 --> 673.04] So no M&Ms as far as I'm aware. -[673.90 --> 674.46] I don't need that. -[674.72 --> 674.94] Okay. -[677.02 --> 677.34] Yeah. -[679.54 --> 681.68] And thank you, Sarah. -[681.90 --> 685.30] At the Molenkamp's residence is the Bible study for the young adults. -[685.76 --> 686.36] Thanks, Sarah. -[687.00 --> 687.60] And lunch. -[688.66 --> 689.28] After church. -[689.54 --> 690.46] One hour after church. -[691.20 --> 691.84] Thank you. -[691.84 --> 691.90] Thank you. -[694.68 --> 696.48] And lastly, one more announcement. -[696.48 --> 706.50] Next Saturday, April 1st, we are hosting a worship-type service at Sunridge Gardens, which is up the hill. -[706.62 --> 709.54] Some of our more senior members live there. -[709.88 --> 714.46] And the beginning of every month, the first Saturday of every month, a group goes and we worship with them there. -[714.88 --> 725.36] We just wanted to invite you and to come out and to join with us and with them as we worship together and as we lead in worship there. -[725.36 --> 736.70] And so if you are available at 2 p.m. on Saturday, come to Sunridge Gardens to the main foyer meeting room there and there'll be a group of us leading in worship together. -[736.70 --> 742.06] Let's stand as we are welcomed into the presence of God. -[742.78 --> 743.06] Worship. -[743.06 --> 752.16] God gathers us up to himself in our worship together. -[752.96 --> 756.48] And so receive his greeting. -[757.82 --> 767.92] Grace, mercy, from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[767.92 --> 769.48] Amen. -[770.20 --> 772.36] I'm going to invite you to turn to those around you. -[772.48 --> 775.74] Welcome them into worship with a handshake or a fist bump or a hug. -[776.52 --> 777.64] Passing the peace of Christ. -[777.64 --> 777.76] Amen. -[777.76 --> 777.84] Amen. -[777.84 --> 777.88] Amen. -[777.88 --> 777.92] Amen. -[777.92 --> 777.96] Amen. -[777.96 --> 778.00] Amen. -[778.00 --> 778.04] Amen. -[778.04 --> 778.08] Amen. -[778.08 --> 778.12] Amen. -[778.12 --> 778.20] Amen. -[797.92 --> 800.36] Amen. -[800.36 --> 802.24] Amen. -[806.24 --> 808.42] Good morning and welcome to worship today. -[809.14 --> 811.22] Our call to worship is from Psalm 95. -[812.38 --> 815.00] Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord. -[815.28 --> 817.78] Let us shout aloud to the rock of our salvation. -[818.50 --> 822.88] Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song. -[823.62 --> 827.42] For the Lord is the great God, the great King above all gods. -[827.92 --> 831.60] In his hands are the depths of the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to him. -[832.14 --> 835.92] The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land. -[836.50 --> 838.34] Come, let us bow down in worship. -[838.58 --> 842.10] Let us kneel before the Lord our Maker, for he is our God, -[842.18 --> 846.06] and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care. -[847.78 --> 851.24] Church of Christ, what do you believe when you say, -[851.94 --> 855.96] I believe in God the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth? -[857.42 --> 860.98] Every time the Father of the Lord Jesus Christ, -[861.56 --> 866.00] who out of nothing created heaven and earth and everything in them, -[866.70 --> 871.72] who still upholds and rules them by his eternal counsel and providence, -[871.96 --> 876.08] is my God and Father because of Christ the Son. -[876.96 --> 884.82] I trust God so much that I do not doubt he will provide whatever I need for body and soul -[884.82 --> 891.72] and will turn to my good whatever adversity he sends upon me in this sad world. -[892.74 --> 896.72] God is able to do this because he is Almighty God -[896.72 --> 901.28] and desires to do this because he is a faithful Father. -[901.28 --> 930.88] God is ability to pray for fair Hawai'i before Katie, -[930.88 --> 950.88] Holy, Lord God Almighty, early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee. -[950.88 --> 973.90] Holy, Holy, Holy, merciful and mighty, God in three blessings, blessed Trinity. -[973.90 --> 999.16] Holy, Holy, Holy, all the saints adore Thee, casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea. -[999.16 --> 1023.16] Cherubim and seraphim falling down before Thee, who would and ought and evermore shall be. -[1023.16 --> 1048.16] Holy, Holy, Holy, though the darkness hide Thee, though the eye may blind by sin, Thy glory may not see. -[1048.16 --> 1071.04] Holy, Holy, thou art holy, there is none beside Thee, perfect environment, love and purity. -[1071.04 --> 1096.04] Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty, all Thy words shall praise Thy name in earth and sky and sea. -[1096.04 --> 1120.34] Holy, Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty, God in three persons, blessed Trinity. -[1126.04 --> 1135.44] Son of the Holy, Holy, -[1140.58 --> 1146.84] He e'er들이 and sons of in one this mess. -[1146.84 --> 1155.42] Come all you sinners, come all you thirsty -[1155.42 --> 1160.00] Come to the well that never runs dry -[1160.00 --> 1165.68] Drink of His water, come and thirst no more -[1165.68 --> 1173.38] Come all you sinners, come find His mercy -[1173.38 --> 1177.42] Come to the table, He will satisfy -[1177.42 --> 1183.22] Taste of His goodness, find what you're looking for -[1183.22 --> 1191.34] For God so loved, the world that He gave us -[1191.34 --> 1195.94] His one and only Son to save us -[1195.94 --> 1201.00] Whoever believes in Him will live forever -[1201.00 --> 1209.34] Bring all your failures, bring your addictions -[1209.34 --> 1213.70] Come lay them down at the foot of the cross -[1213.70 --> 1219.04] Jesus is waiting there with open arms -[1219.04 --> 1227.38] For God so loved, the world that He gave us -[1227.38 --> 1232.04] His one and only Son to save us -[1232.04 --> 1237.08] Whoever believes in Him will live forever -[1237.08 --> 1245.42] The power of hell, forever defeated -[1245.42 --> 1249.82] Now it is well, I'm walking on freedom -[1249.82 --> 1255.42] For God so loved, God so loved the world -[1255.42 --> 1265.76] Praise God, praise God, from whom all blessings flow -[1265.76 --> 1275.76] Praise Him, praise Him, for the wonders of His love -[1275.76 --> 1289.76] For God so loved, the world that He gave us -[1289.76 --> 1294.10] For the wonders of His love -[1294.10 --> 1301.10] For God so loved, the world that He gave us -[1301.10 --> 1306.22] His one and only Son to save us -[1306.22 --> 1310.10] For God so loved, the world that He gave us -[1310.10 --> 1311.10] His one and only Son to save us -[1311.10 --> 1315.10] His one and only Son to save us -[1315.10 --> 1320.10] Whoever believed in Him will live forever -[1320.10 --> 1327.10] The power of hell, forever defeated -[1327.10 --> 1332.44] Now it is well, I'm walking on freedom -[1332.44 --> 1337.44] For God so loved, God so loved the world -[1337.44 --> 1345.44] Bring all your failures, bring your addictions -[1345.44 --> 1349.44] Come lay them down at the foot of the cross -[1349.44 --> 1355.44] Jesus is waiting, God so loved the world -[1355.44 --> 1356.44] The world -[1356.44 --> 1358.44] The world -[1358.44 --> 1360.44] The world -[1360.44 --> 1373.94] The world -[1373.94 --> 1376.30] The world -[1376.30 --> 1377.44] Tongue -[1377.44 --> 1385.44] Phantom -[1385.44 --> 1387.44] tactile -[1387.44 --> 1402.48] Turn your eyes upon Jesus -[1402.48 --> 1410.32] Look full in his wonderful face -[1410.32 --> 1418.82] And the things of earth take their rightful place -[1418.82 --> 1426.08] In the light of his glory and grace -[1428.58 --> 1430.96] O soul, are you weary and troubled? -[1431.56 --> 1433.28] No light in the darkness you see -[1433.28 --> 1435.84] There's light if you look to your Savior -[1435.84 --> 1440.00] And rest in a life lived for him, forever free -[1440.00 --> 1464.28] Turn your eyes upon Jesus -[1464.28 --> 1471.90] Look full in his wonderful face -[1471.90 --> 1479.84] And the things of earth take their rightful place -[1479.84 --> 1487.46] In the light of his glory and grace -[1487.46 --> 1492.84] O soul, are you heavy laden with your sin -[1492.84 --> 1495.26] Working as a slave of the earth -[1495.26 --> 1499.14] No rest as you try to work out your own perfection -[1499.14 --> 1503.06] Oh, but this perfect blood awaits your confession -[1503.06 --> 1510.68] Turn your eyes upon Jesus -[1510.68 --> 1523.30] Turn your eyes upon Jesus -[1523.30 --> 1524.30] Turn your eyes upon Jesus -[1524.30 --> 1530.30] Look full in his wonderful face -[1530.30 --> 1537.92] And the things of earth take their rightful place -[1537.92 --> 1545.54] In the light of his glory and grace -[1545.54 --> 1550.22] O soul, do you question and doubt? -[1551.10 --> 1554.28] As trials and tribulations fill every waking hour -[1554.28 --> 1558.04] Examine his word and bring him your tears -[1558.04 --> 1560.32] And as you walk this road -[1560.32 --> 1563.34] May brothers and sisters in Christ draw near -[1563.34 --> 1567.96] Turn your eyes upon Jesus -[1567.96 --> 1581.42] Turn your eyes upon Jesus -[1581.42 --> 1589.04] Look full in his wonderful face -[1589.04 --> 1596.16] And the things of earth take their rightful place -[1596.16 --> 1603.94] In the light of his glory and grace -[1603.94 --> 1633.92] Turn your eyes upon Jesus -[1633.94 --> 1663.92] Turn your eyes upon Jesus -[1663.94 --> 1666.94] May you do it all in love -[1666.94 --> 1670.94] That I might know you in your suffering -[1670.94 --> 1679.94] Though you slay me -[1679.94 --> 1683.56] Yet I will praise you -[1683.56 --> 1686.94] Though you take from me -[1686.94 --> 1690.94] I will bless your name -[1690.94 --> 1694.94] Though you ruin me -[1694.94 --> 1698.94] Still I will worship -[1698.94 --> 1703.94] Sing a song to the one who's all I need -[1703.94 --> 1713.94] My heart and flesh may fail -[1713.94 --> 1716.94] My heart and flesh may fail -[1716.94 --> 1719.94] The earth below give way -[1719.94 --> 1723.94] With my eyes, with my eyes -[1723.94 --> 1724.94] I'll see the Lord -[1724.94 --> 1725.94] I'll see the Lord -[1725.94 --> 1730.94] Lifted I upon that day -[1730.94 --> 1734.94] Behold the land that was slain -[1734.94 --> 1745.18] was slain and i'll know every tear was worth it all -[1745.18 --> 1756.30] you slay me yet i will praise you though you take from me -[1756.30 --> 1764.30] i will bless your name though you ruin me -[1764.30 --> 1778.30] still i will worship sing a song to the one who's all i need -[1778.30 --> 1788.30] now tonight i'm crying out let this cup pass from me now -[1788.30 --> 1792.30] you're still more than i need -[1792.30 --> 1802.30] you're enough for me -[1802.30 --> 1806.30] you're enough for me -[1806.30 --> 1826.30] i will bless your name though you ruin me still i will worship sing a song to the one who's all -[1826.30 --> 1840.30] i need -[1840.30 --> 1854.30] sing a song to the one who's all i need -[1854.30 --> 1870.30] sing a song to the one who's all i need -[1870.30 --> 1876.30] you unravel me with a melody -[1876.30 --> 1882.30] you surround me with a song -[1882.30 --> 1886.30] of deliverance -[1886.30 --> 1890.30] from my enemies -[1890.30 --> 1896.30] till all my fears are gone -[1896.30 --> 1908.30] i'm no longer a slave to fear -[1908.30 --> 1914.30] i am a child of god -[1914.30 --> 1942.30] from my mother's womb -[1942.30 --> 1946.30] you have chosen me -[1946.30 --> 1952.30] love has called my name -[1952.30 --> 1956.30] i've been born again -[1956.30 --> 1960.30] into your family -[1960.30 --> 1966.30] your blood flows through my veins -[1966.30 --> 1968.30] i'm no longer a slave to fear -[1968.30 --> 1980.30] i am a child of god -[1980.30 --> 1986.30] i'm no longer a slave to fear -[1986.30 --> 1996.30] i am a child of god -[1996.30 --> 2000.30] i'm no longer a slave to fear -[2000.30 --> 2004.30] i am a child of god -[2004.30 --> 2010.30] i am a child of god -[2010.30 --> 2016.30] i'm no longer a slave to fear -[2016.30 --> 2022.30] i am a child of god -[2022.30 --> 2036.30] you -[2036.30 --> 2038.30] you split the sea -[2038.30 --> 2042.30] you split the sea so i could walk right through it -[2042.30 --> 2046.30] my fears were drowned in perfect love -[2046.30 --> 2048.30] you -[2048.30 --> 2050.30] you -[2050.30 --> 2052.30] you -[2052.30 --> 2053.30] you -[2053.30 --> 2066.30] you -[2066.30 --> 2068.30] you -[2068.30 --> 2070.82] I threw it. -[2071.34 --> 2075.62] My fears were drowned in perfect love. -[2077.30 --> 2083.70] You rescued me so I could stand and sing. -[2083.70 --> 2090.16] I am a child of God. -[2091.00 --> 2096.38] I am a child of God. -[2096.38 --> 2104.56] I am a child of God. -[2106.88 --> 2113.78] I'm no longer a slave to fear. -[2115.72 --> 2121.18] I am a child of God. -[2121.18 --> 2127.92] I'm no longer a slave to fear. -[2129.36 --> 2136.04] I am a child of God. -[2136.04 --> 2146.22] I am a child of God. -[2146.22 --> 2148.08] You may be seated. -[2148.82 --> 2150.04] It's time for our offering. -[2150.04 --> 2158.22] I am a child of God. -[2158.22 --> 2160.22] I am a child of God. -[2160.22 --> 2162.36] I am a child of God. -[2162.36 --> 2170.54] I am a child of God. -[2170.54 --> 2172.54] I am a child of God. -[2172.54 --> 2172.86] I am a child of God. -[2172.86 --> 2183.04] I am a child of God. -[2183.04 --> 2184.04] I am a child of God. -[2184.04 --> 2184.50] Good morning. -[2185.50 --> 2187.18] I tried that but it works better with Kevin. -[2188.64 --> 2189.30] Good morning. -[2189.46 --> 2191.68] My name is Brenda and I'm one of the deacons here at Emmanuel. -[2191.68 --> 2194.62] We continue our worship with the giving of our gifts. -[2194.62 --> 2199.96] First to the budget which covers the administration of our church and its ministries and our special -[2199.96 --> 2202.64] offering today is for Life Water Canada. -[2203.28 --> 2209.86] For some of you who would remember one of our former pastors, Pastor Bill Verstegh helped -[2209.86 --> 2214.68] out this organization with an invention which tested the quality of water in the wells. -[2214.68 --> 2217.92] Why is safe water so important? -[2217.92 --> 2222.50] Because without it children and their families must drink dirty water from swamps, ponds and -[2222.50 --> 2224.22] other potentially deadly sources. -[2224.22 --> 2228.24] Something that we're not used to here. -[2228.24 --> 2229.40] We don't have to deal with. -[2229.40 --> 2232.80] But when children are sick they cannot go to school. -[2232.80 --> 2236.94] When adults are sick they cannot earn the money needed to care for their families. -[2236.94 --> 2241.72] In this way contaminated water prevents families, communities and entire regions from -[2241.72 --> 2244.54] reaching their God given potential. -[2244.54 --> 2249.82] Halling water each day takes a lot of time and it's usually the job of women and girls -[2249.82 --> 2252.58] who spend many hours doing this. -[2252.58 --> 2257.54] Every well that's drilled, every pump that gets repaired makes water more accessible and -[2257.54 --> 2263.30] reduces the need to spend so much time hauling it for a great distance. -[2263.30 --> 2268.80] Life Water Canada makes a lasting difference by investing locally. -[2268.80 --> 2274.50] Volunteers train and equip people in Africa and Haiti to drill wells and to build washrooms. -[2274.50 --> 2279.48] Order giving helps overseas villages that can't afford the full cost of critically needed -[2279.48 --> 2282.22] clean water and sanitation. -[2282.22 --> 2287.50] Every dollar given provides a child with safe water for a year. -[2287.50 --> 2293.78] There's a well known African proverb that says, give a man a fish and feed him for a day. -[2293.78 --> 2296.50] Teach him to fish, feed him for life. -[2296.50 --> 2300.50] Next week's offering is for Edjudeo. -[2300.50 --> 2302.50] Let us give as the Lord has blessed us. -[2302.50 --> 2307.50] Let us give as the Lord has blessed us. -[2307.50 --> 2308.50] Let us serve. -[2308.50 --> 2310.50] Let us serve. -[2310.50 --> 2312.50] so -[2312.50 --> 2336.76] My soul finds rest in God alone -[2336.76 --> 2340.62] My rock and my salvation -[2340.62 --> 2345.62] A fortress strong against my foes -[2345.62 --> 2349.24] And I will not be shaken -[2349.24 --> 2354.14] Though lips may bless and hearts may curse -[2354.14 --> 2358.36] And lies like arrows pierce me -[2358.36 --> 2362.04] I'll fix my heart on righteousness -[2362.04 --> 2367.42] I'll look to Him who hears me -[2367.42 --> 2371.42] Oh, praise Him, Alleluia -[2371.42 --> 2377.42] My delight and my reward -[2377.42 --> 2382.42] Everlasting, ever-failing -[2382.42 --> 2387.42] My Redeemer, my God -[2387.42 --> 2400.04] Find rest my soul in God alone -[2400.04 --> 2404.32] Amid the world's temptations -[2404.32 --> 2408.44] When evil seeks to take a hold -[2408.44 --> 2412.04] I'll cling to my salvation -[2412.04 --> 2416.04] Though riches come and riches go -[2416.04 --> 2421.04] Don't set your heart upon them -[2421.04 --> 2425.04] The fields of hope in which I sow -[2425.04 --> 2429.04] Are harvested in heaven -[2429.04 --> 2435.04] Oh, praise Him, Alleluia -[2435.04 --> 2439.04] My delight and my reward -[2439.04 --> 2444.04] Everlasting, never-failing -[2444.04 --> 2449.04] My Redeemer, my God -[2449.04 --> 2462.04] I'll set my gaze on God alone -[2462.04 --> 2465.66] And trust in Him completely -[2465.66 --> 2470.04] With every day pour out my soul -[2470.04 --> 2474.04] And He will prove His mercy -[2474.04 --> 2478.04] Oh, life is but a fleeting breath -[2478.04 --> 2482.04] A sigh to breathe, to measure -[2482.04 --> 2487.04] My King has crushed the curse of death -[2487.04 --> 2489.04] And I am His forever -[2489.04 --> 2490.04] And I am His forever -[2490.04 --> 2496.04] Oh, praise Him, Alleluia -[2496.04 --> 2501.04] My delight and my reward -[2501.04 --> 2506.04] Everlasting, never-failing -[2506.04 --> 2511.04] My Redeemer, my God -[2511.04 --> 2513.04] O, praise Him, Alleluia -[2513.04 --> 2517.04] O, praise Him, Alleluia -[2517.04 --> 2522.04] My delight and my reward -[2522.04 --> 2527.04] Everlasting, never-failing -[2527.04 --> 2532.04] My Redeemer, my God -[2532.04 --> 2555.04] I would love to invite the kids to come up front. -[2555.04 --> 2557.04] We're going to sit right here this morning. -[2557.04 --> 2560.04] Come on up, everyone. -[2560.04 --> 2563.04] Hi! -[2563.04 --> 2564.04] Hi! -[2564.04 --> 2565.04] Hi, hi! -[2565.04 --> 2566.04] Hi, hi, hi! -[2566.04 --> 2567.04] Hi, hi, hi! -[2567.04 --> 2568.04] Ah! -[2569.04 --> 2571.04] Too close, too close! -[2571.04 --> 2572.04] Back up! -[2572.04 --> 2573.04] Oh! -[2573.04 --> 2574.04] Now he's hiding. -[2574.04 --> 2577.04] He's behind his back! -[2577.04 --> 2579.04] All right, how is everyone doing? -[2579.04 --> 2580.04] Good, yeah! -[2580.04 --> 2582.04] Do you think Hank wants to come out again? -[2582.04 --> 2583.04] Yeah! -[2583.04 --> 2585.04] All right, we might have to stop punching him though. -[2585.04 --> 2587.04] Hank? -[2587.04 --> 2588.04] Yeah? -[2588.04 --> 2589.04] Are you ready to come out? -[2589.04 --> 2590.04] Mm-hmm! -[2590.04 --> 2591.04] Hi, everyone! -[2591.04 --> 2592.04] It's a puppet! -[2592.04 --> 2593.04] Guess what, everybody? -[2593.04 --> 2594.04] Hank? -[2594.04 --> 2595.04] I know I've been keeping this secret for a long time. -[2595.04 --> 2596.04] But Hank? -[2596.04 --> 2597.04] Puppet! -[2597.04 --> 2598.04] He's a puppet! -[2598.04 --> 2599.04] I'm a puppet! -[2599.04 --> 2601.04] But that's okay, he's still very fun, isn't he? -[2601.04 --> 2602.04] I'm still fun, I promise! -[2602.04 --> 2603.04] Guess what, Hank? -[2603.04 --> 2604.04] What? -[2604.04 --> 2619.04] We were asked this morning, actually, specifically you were asked this morning, a little bit -[2619.04 --> 2623.04] last minute to lead children's worship time today. -[2623.04 --> 2624.04] Ooh! -[2624.04 --> 2627.04] Do you think you can handle it? -[2627.04 --> 2628.04] All right. -[2628.04 --> 2629.04] Hank, I'll give it to you. -[2629.04 --> 2630.04] Hank? -[2630.04 --> 2631.04] I'll give it to you. -[2631.04 --> 2632.04] Okay! -[2632.04 --> 2633.04] What do I do? -[2633.04 --> 2635.04] You just have to tell the story. -[2635.04 --> 2636.04] Oh! -[2636.04 --> 2637.04] Okay, I can do that! -[2637.04 --> 2638.04] Okay! -[2639.04 --> 2640.04] What's the story? -[2640.04 --> 2641.04] Oh, okay. -[2641.04 --> 2646.04] We're gonna talk today in children's worship time about Jesus and the road to Emmaus. -[2646.04 --> 2647.04] Oh! -[2647.04 --> 2648.04] Okay! -[2648.04 --> 2649.04] So you can tell that a little bit. -[2649.04 --> 2650.04] Why don't you explain it? -[2650.04 --> 2651.04] Okay! -[2653.04 --> 2654.04] How does that story go? -[2654.04 --> 2655.04] Okay! -[2655.04 --> 2657.04] The story of Jesus and the road to Emmaus. -[2657.04 --> 2660.04] Jesus goes on a walk with a few people. -[2660.04 --> 2661.04] A walk! -[2661.04 --> 2663.04] I love walks! -[2664.04 --> 2666.04] What a good story! -[2667.04 --> 2669.04] So we're gonna talk about that walk in children's worship time today. -[2669.04 --> 2670.04] Does that sound good? -[2670.04 --> 2671.04] Mm-hmm! -[2671.04 --> 2673.04] But you're gonna stay back here in church, okay, Hank? -[2673.04 --> 2674.04] Mm-hmm! -[2675.04 --> 2676.04] Oh, he's sad. -[2676.04 --> 2678.04] I think I'll tell Hank the story later. -[2678.04 --> 2679.04] Yeah! -[2679.04 --> 2680.04] And then can we go for a walk? -[2680.04 --> 2682.04] Yeah, we'll go for a walk later too, okay? -[2682.04 --> 2683.04] Does that sound good? -[2683.04 --> 2685.04] Should we hear that story in children's worship time? -[2685.04 --> 2686.04] Yeah? -[2686.04 --> 2687.04] Okay, let's pray. -[2687.04 --> 2690.04] And then we'll do the children's blessing and then we'll go listen to that story, okay? -[2690.04 --> 2691.04] Mm-hmm! -[2691.04 --> 2692.04] All right, bow your heads. -[2692.04 --> 2693.04] Dear God, thank you for this day. -[2693.04 --> 2695.04] Thank you that we could be in church today. -[2695.04 --> 2700.04] We pray that you'll be with us as we learn more about you and be with our grown-ups and -[2700.04 --> 2705.04] parents and the adults here in church as well who learn more about you from Pastor Chris. -[2705.04 --> 2706.04] We pray this in your name. -[2706.04 --> 2707.04] Amen. -[2707.04 --> 2708.04] All right, let's stand up. -[2708.04 --> 2715.04] And let's say, the Lord be with you together. -[2715.04 --> 2716.04] Are you ready? -[2716.04 --> 2719.04] The Lord be with you! -[2719.04 --> 2723.04] All right, let's head to children's worship time. -[2738.04 --> 2756.04] Hi, my name is Dick and I am a child of God. -[2756.04 --> 2760.04] And I pray that you can say the same. -[2760.04 --> 2767.04] There's a number of family prayer concerns and each one of these people covets your prayers. -[2767.04 --> 2773.04] And I'll just read them out because I have a hard time reading these when my eyes are closed. -[2773.04 --> 2777.04] So, first of all, the Mexico team arrived safely back home. -[2777.04 --> 2779.04] Hope you had an awesome time. -[2779.04 --> 2788.04] And Joel Alcama is coaching a gold medal wheelchair basketball team in Vernon and we pray for safe travels. -[2788.04 --> 2790.04] Now the tougher ones. -[2790.04 --> 2791.04] Oops. -[2791.04 --> 2795.04] Fred Koontz's mother is in the hospital. -[2795.04 --> 2796.04] She has dementia. -[2796.04 --> 2798.04] She's 94 years old. -[2798.04 --> 2805.04] She's coming home, but the challenge now for the family is they have to find a place for her because she can't live on her own. -[2805.04 --> 2809.04] Helen Van Beric returned home Saturday. -[2809.04 --> 2814.04] She was treated for a bad case of pneumonia and is also doing well. -[2814.04 --> 2818.04] Cy Visser was taken to the hospital this past week. -[2818.04 --> 2821.04] He's being treated for low white blood cells. -[2821.04 --> 2826.04] And he's home again and he will continue his treatments as he recovers. -[2826.04 --> 2837.04] We'll also pray for John Vanderhoek as he is now with the Lord. Praise God. -[2837.04 --> 2841.04] And I'm sure you had a tough day yesterday as you say goodbye. -[2841.04 --> 2844.04] And the journey is never easy. -[2844.04 --> 2848.04] We pray for Mrs. Vanderhoek and your entire family. -[2848.04 --> 2850.04] God bless. -[2850.04 --> 2858.04] And then this morning we were in the council room and we heard that John and Joanne Koning, a lot of you know them. -[2858.04 --> 2865.04] John has invasive melanoma cancer and it's already spread to certain organs. -[2865.04 --> 2868.04] So let's come to our God in prayer. -[2868.04 --> 2873.04] Our Father who art in heaven. -[2873.04 --> 2877.04] Lord, we are so blessed to be able to say that. -[2877.04 --> 2885.04] Lord, if we can't say that, if we can't say Jesus is our Savior, we pray that we can get on our knees and ask you. -[2885.04 --> 2886.04] Ask you for forgiveness. -[2886.04 --> 2888.04] Ask you to be our Savior. -[2888.04 --> 2894.04] Lord, that we may have a place after this world is done. -[2894.04 --> 2896.04] Because at one point it's going to be done. -[2896.04 --> 2899.04] And each one of us, Lord, will live in glory. -[2899.04 --> 2904.04] And you give us the option of that. -[2904.04 --> 2906.04] Lord, thank you for this week. -[2906.04 --> 2908.04] Lord, some of us had a tough week. -[2908.04 --> 2911.04] Saying goodbye to somebody is never easy, Lord. -[2911.04 --> 2918.04] And then as we say goodbye, and then we live, especially if we live alone, Lord. -[2918.04 --> 2922.04] We've had that partner for years and years and years. -[2922.04 --> 2924.04] We've done so much with them, Lord. -[2924.04 --> 2926.04] We've raised children. -[2926.04 --> 2929.04] We've helped raise grandchildren. -[2929.04 --> 2931.04] We've seen our kids married. -[2931.04 --> 2935.04] Lord, and then we have to say goodbye. -[2935.04 --> 2939.04] We know where the next person went to. -[2939.04 --> 2944.04] And yet, there will be a time when we... -[2944.04 --> 2947.04] It's a memory. -[2947.04 --> 2950.04] Lord, we pray for this week of spring break. -[2950.04 --> 2953.04] And last week, we thank you for sunny weather. -[2953.04 --> 2956.04] We thank you for people that can travel. -[2956.04 --> 2960.04] And we pray will you watch over them. -[2960.04 --> 2963.04] We pray will you be with the teachers as they've been given a break. -[2963.04 --> 2965.04] Lord, help them to have a break. -[2965.04 --> 2971.04] Lord, we pray especially for people who are single parents among us. -[2971.04 --> 2975.04] We're still raising kids, teenage kids, Lord. -[2975.04 --> 2977.04] We pray will you be with them. -[2977.04 --> 2982.04] Will you help us, each one of us, to reach out to them if we know them. -[2982.04 --> 2986.04] Lord, we ask you for a blessing on your service this morning. -[2986.04 --> 2989.04] We thank you that we can come here Sunday after Sunday after Sunday -[2989.04 --> 2994.04] to listen to your word, to sing praises, to fellowship with each other. -[2994.04 --> 2997.04] Lord, we praise will you help and guide us. -[2997.04 --> 2999.04] And we know you do, Lord. -[2999.04 --> 3000.04] Thank you in Jesus' name. -[3000.04 --> 3001.04] Amen. -[3012.04 --> 3014.04] Amen. -[3014.04 --> 3016.04] Amen. -[3016.04 --> 3017.04] Amen. -[3017.04 --> 3019.04] Amen. -[3021.04 --> 3022.04] Amen. -[3022.04 --> 3023.04] Amen. -[3023.04 --> 3024.04] Amen. -[3024.04 --> 3025.04] Amen. -[3025.04 --> 3026.04] Amen. -[3026.04 --> 3027.04] Amen. -[3029.04 --> 3030.04] Amen. -[3030.04 --> 3031.04] Amen. -[3031.04 --> 3032.04] Amen. -[3032.04 --> 3033.04] Amen. -[3033.04 --> 3034.04] Amen. -[3034.04 --> 3035.30] Amen. -[3035.30 --> 3042.14] and we were talking about you guys we were talking about church and -[3042.14 --> 3050.42] and as we were talking I had opportunity to think about and to reflect on -[3051.06 --> 3060.12] I love you guys and just how much we love this church community and this fellowship and -[3060.12 --> 3065.96] being together and seeing the way this community encourages and supports -[3065.96 --> 3074.60] you know this last week these last couple weeks this last month these last many months -[3074.60 --> 3082.32] has been a reminder of just how amazing it is to be part of you and with you -[3082.32 --> 3093.48] and this morning in our worship together it's a reminder for me to just give thanks to God for -[3093.48 --> 3100.30] you I hope and pray that you experience a little bit of that same thing every now again I hope and -[3100.30 --> 3109.76] pray that this morning in our worship that you had a taste of that say if you are watching online and -[3109.76 --> 3115.70] have participated for a long time and have not come may this be your invitation -[3115.70 --> 3138.06] okay we're gonna switch out let's just switch out to be sure yeah -[3139.76 --> 3144.98] if you're online and didn't hear what I said you should come next week you'll hear what I said -[3144.98 --> 3145.70] you -[3145.70 --> 3161.70] you -[3169.76 --> 3194.76] and there we go one of the reasons I love you is because of how you roll through something like -[3194.76 --> 3208.76] that just so casually one of the reasons it's gonna be one of those days folks one of the reasons -[3208.76 --> 3219.76] that I'm grateful for you is your engagement here in worship and in the word and so we're gonna open the -[3219.76 --> 3224.76] word together we're gonna continue in our series in Romans -[3224.76 --> 3231.76] we're gonna read from Romans 6 the first 14 verses it's gonna be on the screen but of course as always -[3231.76 --> 3235.76] I encourage you to have a Bible in your hands or on a device whatever that may be -[3235.76 --> 3240.76] so that you can refer back with us as we do so later -[3240.76 --> 3248.36] open the eyes of your heart and hear the word of the Lord -[3248.36 --> 3258.38] what shall we say then shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase by no means -[3258.38 --> 3268.00] we are those who have died to sin how can we live any longer in it or don't you know that all of us who -[3268.00 --> 3275.60] were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death we were therefore buried with him through -[3275.60 --> 3282.16] baptism into death in order that just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the -[3282.16 --> 3291.40] father we too may live a new life for if we have been united with him in a death like his we will -[3291.40 --> 3299.00] certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his for we know that our old self was crucified -[3299.00 --> 3307.00] with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with that we should no longer be slaves to sin -[3307.00 --> 3317.40] because anyone who has died has been set free from sin now if we died with Christ we believe that we will also -[3317.40 --> 3324.04] live with him for we know that since Christ was raised from the dead he cannot die again -[3325.00 --> 3335.00] death no longer has mastery over him the death he died he died to sin once for all but the life he lives he lives -[3335.00 --> 3345.80] he lives to God in the same way count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus therefore do -[3345.80 --> 3352.68] not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires do not offer any part of yourself -[3352.68 --> 3360.44] to sin as an instrument of wickedness but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from -[3360.44 --> 3369.80] death to life and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness for sin -[3369.80 --> 3379.72] shall no longer be your master because you are not under the law but under grace this is the word of the Lord -[3379.72 --> 3395.80] given the time of year that it is now in March and specifically March 2023 I had opportunity to reflect on -[3395.80 --> 3399.64] what was happening three years ago in our world -[3399.64 --> 3405.24] three years ago -[3406.44 --> 3414.04] began the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown and restrictions now at the time I was -[3415.24 --> 3421.00] pastoring a small to middle sized church 120 people or so -[3421.80 --> 3425.08] I was the only full-time staff person at this church -[3425.08 --> 3431.80] I had a few other staff and lots of volunteers who were awesome and excellent but when COVID hit -[3431.80 --> 3435.88] and all those lockdowns came it fell to me to figure out what to do -[3437.64 --> 3443.88] now as a small church we didn't have a lot of the same sort of tech and resources that we have here for -[3443.88 --> 3451.16] instance and so we didn't know what we were going to do and so I took our personal family camera -[3451.16 --> 3457.56] you know like 720p max like a gig storage on it -[3458.60 --> 3460.76] and recorded a video -[3462.52 --> 3464.20] and then realized that -[3465.88 --> 3472.60] the card only recorded about eight minutes of my sermon so then I had to record the next eight minutes -[3473.08 --> 3474.68] and then figure out how to stitch it together -[3474.68 --> 3480.84] and so at the beginning of that time I downloaded a program -[3481.80 --> 3483.56] to learn how to do video editing -[3485.00 --> 3486.44] I'd never done that before -[3487.08 --> 3490.28] was not something that was part of my ordinary working experience -[3491.48 --> 3493.16] and yet I had no choice -[3494.20 --> 3497.72] and because of the requirements of COVID at that time in Ontario -[3497.72 --> 3502.52] we were shut down and so we put together this idea for a church at home -[3503.08 --> 3509.64] where everything was pre-recorded and people could with their families kind of follow along with books that we had produced -[3509.64 --> 3514.60] but again I had to figure out how to record all of that how to stitch it all together how to upload it to YouTube -[3516.52 --> 3524.28] point is I spent hours and hours and hours learning this video editing software -[3524.28 --> 3533.72] and that continued over the next three years even when I came here one of the first things we ended up putting together was a Christmas day -[3533.72 --> 3537.48] at home service which was all pre-recorded and stitched it together and -[3539.32 --> 3541.08] now I'm not saying I'm a master -[3542.60 --> 3547.16] but I am saying you've seen these treat tag videos and I think they're pretty awesome -[3547.16 --> 3551.16] and so we've learned some skills -[3551.96 --> 3554.60] because of the hours put into this thing -[3555.00 --> 3557.96] right and the reason I offer this is an illustration -[3558.92 --> 3559.24] because -[3560.36 --> 3562.04] we're going to talk this morning about -[3563.24 --> 3571.16] gospel mastery or what does it mean to be mastered by the gospel and I forget who it was but there's someone who said that -[3571.16 --> 3579.24] that mastery comes after 10,000 hours of doing the same thing over and over and over again -[3580.68 --> 3582.84] you can learn mastery -[3585.00 --> 3587.96] you can learn to master a new thing -[3590.12 --> 3592.28] part of this is growth mindset -[3592.84 --> 3594.28] that is all in -[3595.16 --> 3597.88] rage for parenting right now right because you can -[3597.88 --> 3600.04] yeah, you might not know how to do something -[3600.04 --> 3600.28] yet -[3601.24 --> 3603.32] Rachel just was like yes, you got it finally -[3604.76 --> 3607.80] right you can develop these skills -[3608.44 --> 3610.76] and so that's what I hope we might begin to do -[3611.40 --> 3613.48] today developing a gospel -[3614.20 --> 3614.76] mastery -[3616.28 --> 3622.04] because as we have been working through the book of Romans what I hope you have seen in part -[3622.04 --> 3624.44] is a comparison -[3625.72 --> 3633.48] to the way of being in the world and the way of being that is on offer to us in the gospel -[3635.24 --> 3644.44] right it's ordinary in our world to think about or when you think about how you are in the world how to be in the world whether you are a religious person -[3644.44 --> 3646.76] or a spiritual person or not -[3646.76 --> 3647.00] right -[3647.00 --> 3653.16] right we generally approach being in the world as trying to be basically -[3654.04 --> 3654.36] good -[3655.88 --> 3662.04] or at least when when all things are measured and tallied at the end we want to come out -[3662.60 --> 3667.48] on the side of what i'm going to call it this morning a higher good quotient -[3667.48 --> 3672.28] right when it all adds up we hope we have more good on the scale than -[3672.92 --> 3673.24] bad -[3675.00 --> 3681.56] and what Paul has been saying throughout the first half of the book of Romans is that your good quotient -[3681.56 --> 3688.92] the amount of right works that you do is never going to be good enough to earn your salvation -[3690.84 --> 3692.52] right at its most basic -[3692.52 --> 3694.04] right -[3694.04 --> 3702.12] right the problem isn't that we are sinners that is to say we commit sins every now and again the problem is that we are dead -[3702.92 --> 3703.96] in -[3703.96 --> 3706.20] sin -[3706.20 --> 3714.04] right it's too easy for us to think that sin is just doing a little bad thing here and there -[3714.76 --> 3718.68] right most of us don't really commit big capital crimes or -[3719.24 --> 3722.76] many illegal activities at least not more illegal than speeding -[3724.84 --> 3729.32] most of us right don't really think that we are that bad -[3730.12 --> 3733.64] and so we conclude that actually we don't have to do a lot -[3734.36 --> 3737.72] right to be good or to be good enough for heaven -[3738.76 --> 3742.20] but from the beginning in this series -[3742.20 --> 3745.64] right we have seen that Paul is showing us -[3745.64 --> 3751.24] that the truth about ourselves doesn't line up with this assumption -[3752.12 --> 3752.68] in the world -[3753.80 --> 3759.16] instead Paul has repeatedly made the point that we are dead in our transgressions and sins -[3759.16 --> 3768.52] sins that because of the trespass of Adam all have turned away that there's no one who does good not even one that all fall short of the glory of God -[3770.44 --> 3771.48] because of this -[3772.52 --> 3776.68] and thanks be to God we have received it because of this we need grace -[3776.68 --> 3784.92] grace right and grace i've said before is his is God's unmerited favorable disposition towards us -[3785.80 --> 3794.52] right and by grace God calls us out of darkness and he carries us into his wonderful light and we need his grace to by faith -[3795.56 --> 3798.84] raise us from being dead in our sin -[3798.84 --> 3802.20] and that's exactly what he's done in Jesus -[3803.64 --> 3815.00] right in Jesus Christ the the righteousness of God is credited to you as your own righteousness because of what we have called here your union with -[3815.80 --> 3816.20] Christ -[3817.48 --> 3823.64] your union with Jesus through faith and that's the core of the Christian gospel -[3823.64 --> 3825.72] and now -[3825.72 --> 3828.04] I want to be really clear -[3830.04 --> 3831.24] this idea -[3832.04 --> 3838.84] right this Christian gospel idea of a received righteousness is amazing and unique -[3839.96 --> 3846.52] right every other world religion every other system of being in the world will tell you something along the lines of -[3847.24 --> 3848.36] do this -[3848.36 --> 3849.40] do this -[3849.40 --> 3850.04] do this -[3850.68 --> 3851.64] and you will get this -[3852.76 --> 3859.64] right to earn the reward whether you call that heaven or you it's the you know house on the lake or you call it nirvana -[3859.72 --> 3864.20] whatever you might call that reward in order to get it you've got to do these things -[3865.40 --> 3868.60] right you have to fill up your good works quotient -[3869.48 --> 3871.16] and then good will come to you -[3872.28 --> 3876.04] the gospel of Jesus on the other hand says it's all done -[3876.04 --> 3878.04] and then he freely gives it to you -[3882.84 --> 3884.28] but this idea of salvation -[3885.40 --> 3890.20] that salvation is free is so hard for us to comprehend -[3890.68 --> 3894.44] because of the the frame that we live in the way that we see the world -[3895.32 --> 3900.92] that we can't help but think that it requires a good works quotient of some kind -[3901.88 --> 3909.56] and so what Paul does is he anticipates a question from his audience in a in a masterful way -[3910.60 --> 3911.64] because he sees -[3912.52 --> 3918.52] what is possibly happening he sees what is happening and that's the idea that people take this -[3919.16 --> 3925.48] good quotient this good works quotient idea and then they apply it to grace -[3925.48 --> 3931.96] right the idea the logic being that if it is only by grace that i am saved from sin -[3931.96 --> 3938.76] then why bother stop sinning right because i can just do whatever i want because as my sin quotient rises -[3939.32 --> 3941.00] so will the grace quotient -[3942.68 --> 3948.92] right you see what Paul is exposing for us in in the way that we think right that if i can just keep on -[3948.92 --> 3957.16] sinning even if i'm saved by Jesus because grace will cover it we've taken that old and and sort of way of the world -[3957.16 --> 3964.28] seeing and being right about the good quotient and then we've sort of transposed it or superimposed it -[3964.28 --> 3972.68] over top of this idea of salvation by grace so that now it says the grace quotient will raise and -[3972.68 --> 3976.28] will cover over these things so it doesn't actually matter in the end -[3978.28 --> 3984.84] now anticipating that question and that leap in logic paul shuts it down right away at the beginning -[3985.48 --> 3990.28] in verse one of our chapter he says what then shall we say or what shall we say then -[3991.00 --> 4002.20] shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase by no means he says and then he does this beautiful thing -[4003.08 --> 4014.20] by changing a small little word a preposition right where we were before receiving grace the grace of god -[4014.20 --> 4024.20] is to be dead in our transgressions and sins paul says that we are now those who have died to sin -[4024.20 --> 4034.28] so the shift is being dead in our transgressions to sins and sins right to having died to sin that's -[4034.28 --> 4040.76] what grace does that's what the gospel does and it gives you this new life and and this way the way of -[4040.76 --> 4049.32] this new life and to this new life is through death the death of jesus on the cross makes possible your -[4049.32 --> 4059.56] death to sin in this life and if you are dead to sin paul asks how can we willingly to live in it any longer -[4061.32 --> 4067.16] and so again let me be abundantly clear what i hope and pray that you will see and that you might -[4067.16 --> 4076.44] begin to see in this beautiful message from romans 6 is is that it's not just that we try harder -[4079.08 --> 4086.84] but that you experience victory right it's not just that we have to work a little more but that you -[4086.84 --> 4096.36] can actually live life defeated to sin defeating sin again it's not that you won't keep on sinning -[4096.36 --> 4101.32] because you will it's not that you won't experience brokenness in the world or the consequences -[4101.32 --> 4109.32] of sin in the world because we all will it's that it whatever that it is for you is no longer the -[4109.32 --> 4120.28] driving force the defining desire you are no longer captive to sin now maybe it helps to to put this in -[4120.28 --> 4127.64] a bit of a a picture context uh as far as the i'm sorry a bigger context in a moment the picture a bigger -[4127.64 --> 4136.12] context as far as romans goes so the first five chapters of in in the book of romans paul helps us see -[4136.12 --> 4146.92] what it is and explain how it is that god has uh accomplished the gospel for us right what he did -[4146.92 --> 4153.64] and how he did it and and why he had to do it and then chapter eight through or chapter six through eight -[4154.36 --> 4162.84] begin to tell us what god will accomplish in us through the gospel right in in chapter six through -[4162.84 --> 4170.76] eight we begin to see how you might experience this truth the truth of the gospel and how it might -[4170.76 --> 4179.48] begin to transform every day of your life and key to this transformation is the understanding of what -[4179.48 --> 4189.24] it means to have died to sin so in chapter five verse 21 the verse just before where we -[4189.24 --> 4201.00] read paul writes so that just as sin reigned in death right sin reigned in death that means that sin -[4201.00 --> 4207.64] was the ruling power in the world and in our lives before the gospel of grace was applied -[4208.92 --> 4213.24] and so again let's take it all the way back in chapter one right paul talked about how -[4213.24 --> 4221.24] how apart from the intervening work of jesus in what we've called his super abundant application of -[4221.24 --> 4229.96] grace right that apart from that we have been given over to our sinful desires such that these sinful -[4229.96 --> 4238.68] desires ruled us they they reigned over us they had mastery in our lives i mean they have mastery that -[4238.68 --> 4245.08] means we can't resist them that we're slaves to them now some of you know intimately what i'm talking -[4245.08 --> 4253.80] about right now that no matter how hard you try you can't change that thing right you can't seem to stop -[4253.80 --> 4261.56] doing whatever that may be and whatever it may be for you what paul is saying here and now in romans 6 is -[4261.56 --> 4270.36] that we are dead to sin and what he means in part is that where sin previously reigned now sin no longer -[4270.36 --> 4279.80] reigns right and because it no longer reigns he's introducing for us the ability that you have because -[4279.80 --> 4287.40] of your union with christ to resist and rebel against it and again right that's not because of our -[4287.40 --> 4295.32] own work but it's because of the work of christ in us there is a new power at work in your life and -[4295.32 --> 4304.84] that is the power of god jesus says to paul in acts 26 verse 18 he says that the gospel has come to -[4304.84 --> 4315.32] people to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light and from the power of satan to the power of god -[4317.96 --> 4325.88] now let me see if i can illustrate this with a um an analogy this comes from one of the books that i -[4325.88 --> 4336.76] read this week in preparation for here imagine that there is a country where an evil military force -[4336.76 --> 4346.68] is ruling over the people with an iron fist and it's not really hard to imagine right but such that it holds the -[4346.68 --> 4357.40] entire nation under thumb and captive but one day one day a good army sweeps in and overthrows that evil -[4357.40 --> 4363.08] force that kicks them out of power removes them from the capital takes back the seat of government -[4363.08 --> 4371.88] takes back uh takes control back of the media uh and forces uh takes control of the media forces the the old -[4371.88 --> 4379.80] army out and is now in charge of all the communication to the people but those who have been kicked out of -[4379.80 --> 4387.32] power that evil army they no longer are on the seat of rule they no longer have defined authority but -[4387.32 --> 4395.72] they go out and they live in the bush and this force becomes a guerrilla style force that creates -[4395.72 --> 4403.40] disaster and causes destruction and wreaks havoc for this new rightful government right it's even possible -[4403.40 --> 4409.40] that this guerrilla force could impose its will on part of the country right that it could take over a -[4409.40 --> 4417.96] a portion for a period of uh season but based on the differences in what has happened it would be -[4417.96 --> 4423.56] impossible for them to get back into full power it would be impossible for them to take the seat of -[4423.56 --> 4430.12] government back though they still exercise some of their divisiveness in the region -[4430.12 --> 4441.32] your heart is the seat of power and the capital of your life in this analogy and by grace through faith -[4441.32 --> 4451.72] there is a new head a new king and his name is jesus but that old force right that that longs to usurp and divide -[4451.72 --> 4463.48] okay let's i think that the bible is the most realistic and honest book there is when it comes to the human condition -[4464.76 --> 4473.56] because the bible knows that you may yet obey the desire for sin right the bible predicts that you will do it -[4473.56 --> 4485.48] but the truth of the gospel is that you no longer have to obey it right that's the shift that has come -[4486.52 --> 4495.48] right your desires have been transformed by grace through faith if you believe and so paul says how can -[4495.48 --> 4502.68] we live with it any longer and then what he does is he gives us this illustration from baptism -[4503.80 --> 4512.92] now in paul's day that the overwhelming majority of baptismal experiences is the result of adult -[4512.92 --> 4520.36] believing conversion and then done by total immersion into a river or into a pool that had been -[4520.36 --> 4527.16] built in the floor of a meeting place of some kind and so the image that paul is drawing upon of being -[4527.16 --> 4533.48] baptized into christ jesus as a spiritual metaphor for being baptized into his death -[4533.48 --> 4541.24] fits because in death you are lowered down into the ground just like in baptism you are lowered down -[4541.24 --> 4548.68] into the water below its surface and so he says we were therefore buried with him through baptism into -[4548.68 --> 4556.68] death in order that just as christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the father we too may live a new -[4556.68 --> 4567.80] life the beauty of baptism is its mystery not that it's somehow magical right and the mystery of baptism is -[4567.80 --> 4576.04] that it's a sign and a seal it's a picture of a spiritual reality that is true for each one of us who believes -[4576.04 --> 4583.00] and when we believe we are united to christ so that whatever is true for him -[4584.84 --> 4590.84] and remember the book of romans is set up as a legal case right there's a trial that's going on whatever -[4590.84 --> 4597.80] is true for him in this legal back and forth whatever new reality christ has accomplished in the the the -[4597.80 --> 4608.84] legal declaration is a new reality for who you are it is applied to you and this then is where we begin -[4608.84 --> 4617.72] to see gospel mastery at work right the kind of gospel mastery that we are aiming for this new creation -[4617.72 --> 4627.72] reality for us because death frees people from slavery or mastery to sin and jesus died in our -[4627.72 --> 4635.80] place and by grace through faith we are given union with him and by that union just as christ died so -[4635.80 --> 4644.76] have we died to sin and that union continues read with me in verse 5 if we've been united with him in a -[4644.76 --> 4654.76] death like his we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his just as jesus death led to -[4654.76 --> 4661.08] his resurrection and to his resurrection and to new life so too those of us who are united with him who are -[4661.08 --> 4671.00] united to christ will also experience new life it is a logical inevitability it is a consequence of a new -[4671.00 --> 4675.08] creation it is a consequence of a new creation it is the fruit of our new life in him -[4677.88 --> 4678.04] and -[4680.68 --> 4685.72] and i i i get it perhaps better than most -[4687.56 --> 4693.88] but some of us have been struggling with the particular sin for so long or struggling with with sin -[4693.88 --> 4694.60] in general -[4697.00 --> 4698.20] that it's really easy -[4699.24 --> 4699.88] to miss -[4700.92 --> 4702.76] an important word in what we just -[4703.40 --> 4707.24] read an important word in in verse five and i want to make sure that you hear it and so -[4707.88 --> 4708.52] listen in -[4709.80 --> 4715.72] for we have been united with him in if we have been united with him in a death like his -[4715.72 --> 4727.56] we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his certainly also -[4729.40 --> 4737.24] certainly that's what i want you to hear right union with jesus by grace through faith comes with -[4737.80 --> 4744.44] certainty it comes with what the philosophers used to call a measure of foundational certitude -[4744.44 --> 4750.76] right with that with a reality of epistemic assurance that you can know this to be true -[4752.28 --> 4758.60] right here is is how gospel mastery is experienced by you in your life -[4760.12 --> 4764.68] right it starts with the objective certainty of the gospel -[4766.84 --> 4772.36] and so you've heard me say before that some people talk about faith as a blind leap as or as -[4772.36 --> 4777.64] kind of wandering around in the dark hopefully moving forward guessing at whatever's ahead that -[4777.64 --> 4783.40] somehow faith is contrary to reason but that's not at all the way that the bible talks about faith -[4785.08 --> 4792.04] now sure faith isn't the same as empirical proof and i use the word proof there in the technical sense -[4792.04 --> 4796.28] right in the philosophical scientific sense or mathematical sense of the word -[4796.28 --> 4805.16] the word but our faith does come with certainty with the gospel right it comes with assurance that -[4805.16 --> 4812.84] assurance is that just as jesus rose so too will we be raised just as jesus was given new life so too are -[4812.84 --> 4821.40] we given new life in in a spiritual sense now by the holy spirit but then one day in glory at the end of history -[4821.40 --> 4828.28] the holy spirit but as all the world is moving towards god's intent and purposes for his creation right -[4828.28 --> 4837.88] for which he redeemed the world that that truth is certain that reality is unshakable and when that is -[4837.88 --> 4848.44] certain in your life the kinds of questions like verse one don't even cross your mind because you're living -[4848.44 --> 4856.12] towards and you're living for that new creation that certain reality no longer are you looking back -[4856.68 --> 4860.12] to death but looking forward in new life -[4862.68 --> 4869.64] and so paul says for we know verse six that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled -[4869.64 --> 4876.12] by sin might be done away with that we should no longer be slaves to sin because anyone who has died -[4876.12 --> 4888.68] has been set free from sin now in this phrase here that the old self is an identifier for your heart and your mind before the gospel -[4889.80 --> 4899.88] it is you when you were still ruled by mastery by slavery to sin the old self is is an image of your heart when it was captive -[4899.88 --> 4910.68] to the evil government that has since been displaced by jesus in the language of chapter one the old self is the one who has suppressed the truth of god -[4910.68 --> 4918.28] who has been given over to their sinful dire desires the one who's exchanged the truth of god for a lie and worshiped and served created things -[4918.28 --> 4927.88] it's the one who still lives in that depraved mind but now because of the gospel we're no longer slaves to sin we've been set free -[4927.88 --> 4937.24] set free and so circling back to the beginning why would anyone want to continue in that slavery in that sin that wants to find them -[4937.24 --> 4949.56] instead in verse eight if we died with christ we believe that we will also live with him right death no longer has mastery over him -[4949.56 --> 4958.04] the death he died he died to sin once for all but the life he lives he lives to god and there it is -[4959.64 --> 4960.20] right there -[4962.36 --> 4973.40] right there who you are in him your new self and your true self your renewed self is lived to and with -[4973.40 --> 4981.96] god and again don't hear what i'm not saying okay remember we still struggle with sin in fact the mark -[4981.96 --> 4988.28] of the christian life isn't that there is no struggle right sometimes people i hear people say -[4988.28 --> 4994.44] you know if this was really true for me i wouldn't struggle with that but actually the mark of christian -[4994.44 --> 5000.20] life is that you struggle right that you are struggling right you struggle to live in gratitude and -[5000.20 --> 5006.68] obedience to jesus for what he has done if there's no struggle that means those old desires are still -[5006.68 --> 5014.28] ruling but if there is a struggle take heart because that means there's a new ruler there's a new reality -[5014.28 --> 5016.76] that you are trying to live to and connect from -[5016.76 --> 5029.40] and you know as i was thinking about this maybe maybe the word struggle isn't strong enough -[5031.08 --> 5036.68] and maybe we need to go back to that image of a ruling governing army that is displaced by a good army -[5036.68 --> 5045.40] by a good king because the truth is there's a war going on or at least there ought to be a war going on -[5046.76 --> 5051.32] now there may be people in the world today who no longer have eyes to see it -[5053.48 --> 5059.96] because it is a war that is not between flesh and blood but between powers and principalities a war -[5059.96 --> 5065.40] that exists between the dark forces and the rulers the dark forces and rulers of the kingdom -[5065.40 --> 5071.24] of this world and the kingdom of god the kingdom of light it's not a war like we said of flesh and -[5071.24 --> 5078.60] blood it is a war of hearts and minds and the disciple of jesus who understands the gospel message of -[5078.60 --> 5089.24] mastery in newness of life is one who understands that she is at war too many of us have grown lazy -[5089.24 --> 5099.96] and apathetic this is war the soldier who doesn't train is the most likely to be lost i have known -[5099.96 --> 5106.84] too many people who have given up in their struggle with sin i've known way too many people who assume -[5106.84 --> 5113.08] that sin and brokenness will always have more power than they are able to provide and so the war -[5113.08 --> 5120.92] has been ended they've ceded the victory they've ceded the territory of their life to this struggle -[5123.08 --> 5131.72] but if your heart belongs to jesus that your life has been bought by him he has already won the victory -[5132.60 --> 5139.00] and he's given you the victory and he makes you able to experience the kind of gospel mastery in your -[5139.00 --> 5144.44] life because it's not your work it's his work in you and through you that's what union with christ -[5144.44 --> 5150.36] is it's not your obedience or your efforts it's his in you and through you and for you -[5151.16 --> 5155.48] and every week when i stand up here in front of you and i say that jesus lived the life i should have -[5155.48 --> 5160.52] lived and died the death that i deserved and that three days later he rose again victorious over sin and -[5160.52 --> 5170.28] death what that means is now he has given you the power to live the life he has lived right so he died -[5171.00 --> 5177.80] death that you deserve because of your life and he gives you the power to live like him he's given -[5177.80 --> 5183.48] you victory over death and that is certain it's guaranteed -[5187.48 --> 5198.28] look i i believe and i believe this because the bible tells me it is true i believe for instance that god -[5199.00 --> 5207.56] can break the hold of pornography on your life i believe that god can end the power of addiction -[5207.80 --> 5214.84] in your life i believe that god can stop the destruction of your marriage because of the -[5214.84 --> 5221.88] anger that's ruling you i believe that god can bring an end to the slavish greed that you have been -[5221.88 --> 5228.12] dictated by and dominated by in your life i believe that he could do all of that -[5230.68 --> 5231.96] because he raised the dead -[5231.96 --> 5243.88] and i believe that the power of god to help you experience this new life in him starts with knowing -[5243.88 --> 5252.36] the certainty that if you died with him you will live with him that the the reign of sin in your life -[5252.36 --> 5261.64] has ended and the reign of christ is now your new reality and so please i beg you stop giving power -[5261.64 --> 5263.40] to death in your life -[5268.76 --> 5272.20] but let the life of christ reign in you -[5272.20 --> 5283.24] offer every part of yourself to him to god as those who have been brought from death to life -[5283.24 --> 5288.36] and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness -[5291.00 --> 5297.16] for sin shall no longer be your master because you are not under the law but under grace -[5298.68 --> 5308.44] mastery over sin in your life is possible it is guaranteed to us by the grace of god in jesus christ -[5308.44 --> 5317.00] this is the truth of the gospel made evident in you and through you this is how you will experience -[5317.00 --> 5325.64] the gospel in your life yes you will fail you will struggle but make that struggle a war -[5326.84 --> 5335.48] make that struggle a war and know that already already even now by grace through faith you have the victory -[5335.48 --> 5350.20] victory live victorious church of god elect and glorious live in the victory of jesus amen amen let's pray together -[5351.16 --> 5353.48] i'm going to ask you to stand as we pray as well -[5353.48 --> 5373.40] holy god here we stand called by your gospel to obey called by your gospel out of death into life out of darkness into -[5373.40 --> 5381.96] light here we stand god we believe help our unbelief -[5383.08 --> 5393.24] convict us by the certainty of the gospel to live lives of glorious obedience and gratitude to you -[5393.24 --> 5411.16] god help us to know that already now we can begin experiencing the kind of gospel mastery that you are calling us to take joy in -[5411.16 --> 5417.48] lord jesus christ we cling to you -[5417.48 --> 5427.32] and so embolden us for mission with you as we go in jesus christ we pray amen -[5427.32 --> 5441.24] church of god elect and glorious is our song of response and is rich in scripture particularly based -[5441.24 --> 5449.32] in first peter uh 2 verse 9 to 12 calling the church of god to be a holy people exemplified in the way they -[5449.32 --> 5455.72] live their lives and share christ with the world in response to god's grace and love and for those who are -[5455.72 --> 5460.12] interested to know the tune we are using is based on one of the more popular tunes for this hymn -[5461.56 --> 5470.76] called lux yoi which is written by arthur sullivan from 1874 we've taken that tune and adjusted it to -[5470.76 --> 5478.60] our church context as an anthem march so join in as you feel moved and get to know the tune or listen to -[5478.60 --> 5481.32] the words sung over you as a call for your life -[5485.72 --> 5513.30] when ph -[5513.30 --> 5538.38] Church of God, elect and glorious, holy nation, chosen race. -[5538.38 --> 5547.48] Call us God's own special people, royal priests and heirs of grace. -[5548.08 --> 5558.76] Know the purpose of your calling, show to all his mighty deeds. -[5558.76 --> 5569.86] Tell of love that knows no limits, and grace that meets all human needs. -[5569.86 --> 5580.86] God has called you out of darkness into his most marvelous light. -[5581.76 --> 5588.86] Brought his truth to life within you, turned your blindness into sight. -[5588.86 --> 5601.24] Let your light so shine around you, that God's name is glorified. -[5601.90 --> 5610.52] And you'll find fresh hope and purpose within Christ Jesus crucified. -[5610.52 --> 5623.24] Once you were an alien people, strangers to God's heart of love. -[5623.24 --> 5631.88] But he brought you home in mercy, citizens of heaven above. -[5631.88 --> 5637.32] Let his love flow out to others. -[5637.98 --> 5642.48] Let them feel the Father's care. -[5643.38 --> 5646.96] That they too may know his welcome. -[5648.10 --> 5652.86] And in his countless blessings share. -[5652.86 --> 5664.80] Church of God, elect and holy, be the people he intends. -[5664.80 --> 5673.54] Strong in faith and swift to answer, each command your master sends. -[5673.54 --> 5703.52] Christ of God, elect and holy, be the people he intends. -[5703.54 --> 5705.40] Christ's love declare. -[5714.40 --> 5718.46] As we go this week, we go with the blessing of God. -[5718.56 --> 5728.18] And remember that God's blessing over you is his way of writing his name on you as his child. -[5728.18 --> 5735.18] after service if you would like to receive prayer and meet with someone for prayer they will be up -[5735.18 --> 5740.98] here with a yellow name tag on waiting for you to engage in that if you'd like to talk to me -[5740.98 --> 5747.16] i will be at the connect booth following our worship together as i swing by and grab a coffee -[5747.16 --> 5753.10] and get there the rest of you may also stick around after worship grab a coffee enjoy some -[5753.10 --> 5761.84] fellowship together and meet over the grace of our god receive god's blessing for the day and week -[5761.84 --> 5769.76] ahead the lord bless you and keep you the lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious -[5769.76 --> 5779.18] to you the lord turn his face toward you and give you his peace amen -[5783.10 --> 5786.10] Literally -[5786.10 --> 5787.86] edited by The -[5788.38 --> 5788.68] One -[5788.68 --> 5788.92] Talking -[5788.92 --> 5789.98] 駕駛 -[5789.98 --> 5790.10] Anthony -[5790.10 --> 5791.64] manufactures -[5791.64 --> 5794.40] EscД -[5794.42 --> 5795.78] fills -[5795.78 --> 5796.90] Tres -[5796.90 --> 5797.34] 遙 -[5797.38 --> 5798.18] 這 -[5798.18 --> 5798.66] 時 -[5798.76 --> 5799.34] 是 -[5799.34 --> 5799.94] 启 -[5800.44 --> 5800.82] 補合 -[5801.16 --> 5801.50] 想 -[5801.50 --> 5802.26] 啊 -[5802.26 --> 5811.22] 口 -[5811.34 --> 5811.82] 啊 -[5811.82 --> 5822.62] Why should I fear man when you made the heavens? -[5823.82 --> 5830.76] Why should I be afraid when you put the stars in place? -[5831.50 --> 5837.62] Why should I lose heart when I know how great you are? -[5837.62 --> 5846.32] Why should I give up when your plans are full of love? -[5846.78 --> 5859.82] In this world we will have trouble, but you have overcome the world. -[5859.82 --> 5868.56] You shine brighter than the brightest star. -[5869.06 --> 5875.98] Pure love, purer than the purest heart. -[5875.98 --> 5887.98] You shine, filling us with courage and strength to follow you. -[5887.98 --> 5900.42] Why should I fear man when you made the heavens? -[5901.84 --> 5908.40] Why should I be afraid when you put the stars in place? -[5908.40 --> 5916.04] Why should I lose heart when I know how great you are? -[5916.56 --> 5923.40] Why should I give up when your plans are full of love? -[5923.40 --> 5953.38] Why should I be afraid when you put the stars in place? -[5953.38 --> 5965.64] You shine, filling us with courage and strength to follow you. -[5967.78 --> 5980.08] In this world we will have trouble, but you have overcome the world. -[5980.08 --> 5997.00] You shine, brighter than the brightest star. -[5997.46 --> 6004.16] You shine, pure than the purest heart. -[6004.16 --> 6015.16] You shine, filling us with courage and strength to follow you. -[6017.34 --> 6022.36] You shine, brighter than the brightest star. -[6022.82 --> 6029.44] You shine, pure than the purest heart. -[6029.44 --> 6040.76] You shine, filling us with courage and strength to follow you. -[6040.76 --> 6058.88] You shine, pure than the dean, director of the Dean Ariel Page. -[6058.88 --> 6088.86] Thank you. -[6088.88 --> 6118.86] Thank you. -[6118.88 --> 6148.86] Thank you. -[6148.88 --> 6178.86] Thank you. -[6178.88 --> 6208.86] Thank you. -[6208.88 --> 6238.86] Thank you. -[6238.88 --> 6268.86] Thank you. -[6268.88 --> 6298.86] Thank you. -[6298.88 --> 6328.86] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship Service - April 11 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship Service - April 11 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ea18da5db18832bb55e5747612d620eb163e2790..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship Service - April 11 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,89 +0,0 @@ -• Feelings of being beyond repair and unworthy -• God's constant presence and love despite perceived failures and shame -• God's unconditional acceptance and love, regardless of past actions or circumstances -• The overwhelming nature of God's love -• God's willingness to pursue and redeem even those who feel unworthy or unlovable -• The overwhelming and reckless love of God -• Leaving the 99 to find the one -• Seeing God's greatness and worthiness -• Following, listening, and loving God -• Praise and worshiping God -• Living for God as Prince of Peace -• Confession and assurance from the Heidelberg Catechism -• Doing good works out of gratitude and praise -• Praying for guidance, comfort, and healing -• Prayers and devotionals -• Teaser trailer announcement -• Kids' Corner segment introduction and activities -• Storytelling about the road to Emmaus after Jesus' resurrection -• Memory verse recitation (John 3:16) -• The disciples on the road to Emmaus recognize Jesus after he breaks bread with them -• They tell other disciples about their encounter and confirm that Jesus has come back to life -• A community celebration is happening where people are dropping off treats at doors, such as sticks -• The church's offerings for the day will be used for budget needs and World Renew Refugee Sponsorship -• World Renew helps settle refugees in Canada through sponsorship agreements with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada -• Edudeo's Christ-centered education advances children's purpose, meaning, and joy. -• World Renew Refugee Sponsorship is a Canadian charity that supports education in various regions. -• Edudeo partners with locally-led organizations for their programs. -• The church is seeking nominations for leadership positions of elder and deacon. -• Aaron Alkema has contracted COVID-19 and the congregation is asked to remember him and his family in prayer. -• Prayers are offered for various individuals and groups in need, including those suffering from illness or grief. -• Requests are made for healing, strength, and comfort for those experiencing difficulties. -• The Bridge Church is mentioned as going through a difficult time with George, and prayers are offered for them. -• Employment security and job uncertainty are discussed, and prayers are offered for stability and reliable employment. -• Relationships struggling or broken are acknowledged, and prayers are offered for healing and restoration. -• The church's programs, including those for youth, are mentioned and prayed for. -• Leadership within the church is thanked and prayed for, with a request that God would guide them in their roles. -• The Bible teaches about two kinds of wisdom: one from heaven (pure, peace-loving, considerate) and the other earthly (rooted in envy and selfish ambition) -• The contrast between these two types of wisdom is seen in James 3, particularly in verses 13-17 -• Wisdom that comes from heaven is described as being born of humility, revealed in actions, and results in good fruit -• In contrast, worldly wisdom leads to disorder, evil practices, and is rooted in envy and selfish ambition -• The concept of purity is explored, with the Greek word for "pure" meaning undefiled or ritually holy -• An illustration using pure water is used to demonstrate how purity can be maintained despite differences in origin (e.g. river vs. laboratory) -• The speaker discusses the issue of tap water vs pure water, highlighting that while they may appear similar, they have different compositions. -• He uses this analogy to illustrate how wisdom can be misunderstood in a post-Christian world, where the two types of wisdom (Christian and secular) may seem similar but have distinct sources and goals. -• The speaker explains that Christians believe human rights and dignity are inherent because humans were created in God's image. -• He notes that while the idea of universal human rights is widely accepted, its source is often overlooked or denied. -• The speaker references the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states that all human beings have inherent dignity and equal rights, but does not provide a reason for this assertion. -• Discussion of tackling challenging questions related to faith -• Critique of secular arguments for universal human rights, including social contract and game theory evolutionary arguments -• Mention of Sam Harris's book "The Moral Landscape" as a potential solution -• Summary of Harris's thesis that morality can be scientifically determined -• Explanation of Harris's distinction between consequentialism and classical utilitarianism -• Critique of the limitations of Harris's approach, including reliance on intuition -• Critique of moral philosophy, specifically Immanuel Kant's universal categorical imperatives -• Harris's argument that morality is a scientifically proven concept, and inability to empirically prove claims about morality or God -• Comparison between Harris's approach and Christian understanding of morality, highlighting the importance of God in making sense of morality -• Discussion on how Western culture has been influenced by Christianity, but now assumes certain moral values as common ground without acknowledging their Christian roots -• The difference between Christianity and the world is often hard to see for Christians. -• The concept of being a "member" of a church is becoming less relevant in modern society. -• Church shopping, where people switch churches based on personal preferences, is common but not biblical. -• Christians often live according to worldly wisdom rather than divine wisdom. -• Biblical values such as loving one's neighbor and enemy, humility, and prioritizing others' interests are often at odds with secular values. -• The speaker contrasts the wisdom of heaven with the wisdom of the world -• There is a war going on for one's mind and how they believe, behave, and belong -• The beauty of the wisdom of heaven is that it came down to earth -• Scripture reference: 1 Corinthians chapter 1, verse 20 -• God's wisdom was made foolish by the world through its own wisdom -• God pleased through preaching Christ crucified -• Jesus is the wisdom of God, made flesh and dwelling among us -• The gospel reality is that the wisdom of heaven came down to earth through Jesus Christ -• Wisdom and knowledge from God through Jesus Christ -• Prayer for revelation and transformation -• Living in accordance with truth -• Receiving guidance and strength from Christ alone -• Hope, light, and comfort found in Christ -• Understanding the sacrifice and redemption of Christ -• Assurance of salvation and protection from evil -• Blessing for those going on a journey -• Praise of God's name and attributes -• Reference to Calvary and Jesus' sacrifice -• Resurrection of Christ -• Worship and adoration of God -• Invitation to the Holy Spirit to come and fill the church -• Prayer for God's will to be done, Christ's kingdom to come, and the Spirit to lead -• Request to set a church on fire -• Repeated invocations to come Holy Spirit -• Affirmation of Jesus' reign as one with the Holy Spirit -• References to being or having the living flame of love -• Music/ singing mentioned (living flame song) \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship Service - April 11 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship Service - April 11 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2d9fcf520d66cd52cfc46d977d5c254d3449eeb7..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship Service - April 11 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1242 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 5.92] I would have labeled me a lost car, cause I feel just like a lost car. -[7.32 --> 12.72] If I were you, I would have turned around and walked away. -[13.28 --> 19.72] I would have labeled me beyond repair, cause I feel like I'm beyond repair. -[21.38 --> 24.74] Oh, but somehow you don't see me like I do. -[25.18 --> 27.90] Somehow you're still here. -[27.90 --> 31.50] You're the God who stays. -[31.94 --> 34.68] You're the God who stays. -[35.64 --> 42.60] You're the one who runs in my direction when the whole world walks away. -[42.86 --> 48.96] You're the God who stands with wide open arms. -[48.96 --> 53.66] And you tell me nothing I have ever done. -[53.66 --> 58.20] Cause separate my heart from the God who stays. -[58.20 --> 62.60] I used to hide. -[63.24 --> 65.88] Every time I thought I let you down. -[66.58 --> 69.14] Always thought I had to earn my way. -[69.90 --> 72.70] But I'm learning you don't work that way. -[74.08 --> 77.70] Cause somehow you don't see me like I do. -[78.06 --> 80.20] Somehow you're still here. -[80.20 --> 83.80] You're the God who stays. -[83.80 --> 87.48] You're the God who stays. -[87.48 --> 95.36] You're the one who runs in my direction when the whole world walks away. -[95.36 --> 97.36] You're the God who stays. -[97.36 --> 98.36] You're the God who stays. -[98.36 --> 98.96] You're the God who stays. -[98.96 --> 101.60] With a wide open heart. -[101.60 --> 106.50] And you tell me nothing I have ever done. -[106.50 --> 111.94] Cause separate my heart from the God who stays. -[111.94 --> 116.32] My shame can't separate. -[116.32 --> 119.70] My guilt can't separate. -[119.70 --> 123.08] My past can't separate. -[123.08 --> 125.82] I'm yours forever. -[126.94 --> 129.86] My sin can't separate. -[129.86 --> 133.24] My scars can't separate. -[133.24 --> 136.58] My failures can't separate. -[136.58 --> 139.58] I'm yours forever. -[139.58 --> 143.58] No will in me can't separate. -[143.58 --> 146.98] No power in heaven can take away. -[146.98 --> 150.68] Your love for me will never change. -[150.76 --> 153.70] I'm yours forever. -[156.20 --> 159.28] Cause you're the God who stays. -[159.56 --> 162.10] You're the God who stays. -[163.14 --> 166.66] You're the one who runs in my direction. -[166.66 --> 169.88] When the whole world walks away. -[169.88 --> 171.88] You're the God who stays. -[171.88 --> 174.06] You're the God who stays. -[174.06 --> 176.06] You're the God who stays. -[176.06 --> 177.84] You're the God who stays. -[177.84 --> 179.84] You're the one who runs in my direction. -[179.84 --> 194.06] When the whole world walks away. -[194.06 --> 195.06] You're the God who stays. -[195.06 --> 197.38] You're the God who stays. -[197.38 --> 198.60] With wide open arms. -[198.60 --> 200.50] You tell me nothing I have done. -[200.50 --> 202.86] Cause separate my heart from the God who stays. -[202.86 --> 207.98] And you tell me nothing I have ever done -[207.98 --> 213.12] Could separate my heart from the God who stays -[232.86 --> 245.58] Before I spoke a word, you were singing over me -[245.58 --> 254.02] You have been so, so good to me -[254.02 --> 263.76] Before I took a breath, you breathed your life in me -[263.76 --> 272.26] You have been so, so kind to me -[272.26 --> 282.46] Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God -[282.46 --> 288.62] Oh, it chases me down, fights till I'm found -[288.62 --> 290.72] He's the 99 -[290.72 --> 296.22] I couldn't earn it, I don't deserve it -[296.22 --> 300.22] Still you give yourself away -[300.22 --> 309.14] Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God -[309.14 --> 310.30] Yeah -[310.30 --> 311.02] Yeah -[311.02 --> 330.88] When I was your foe, still your love followed me -[330.88 --> 343.46] You have been so, so good to me -[343.46 --> 349.62] When I felt no worth -[349.62 --> 353.00] You paid it all for me -[353.00 --> 361.62] You have been so, so kind to me -[361.62 --> 372.10] Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God -[372.10 --> 378.26] Oh, it chases me down, fights till I'm found -[378.26 --> 380.26] He's the 99 -[380.26 --> 385.42] I couldn't earn it, I don't deserve it -[385.42 --> 389.26] Still you give yourself away -[389.26 --> 398.92] Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God -[398.92 --> 399.76] Yeah -[399.76 --> 400.08] Yeah -[400.08 --> 405.08] Yeah -[405.08 --> 408.76] Yeah -[408.76 --> 409.08] Yeah -[409.08 --> 421.26] There's no shadow you won't light up -[421.26 --> 423.58] Mountain you won't climb up -[423.58 --> 424.92] Coming after me -[424.92 --> 453.16] Come on, sing it -[453.16 --> 457.16] There's no shadow you won't light up -[457.16 --> 459.40] Mountain you won't climb up -[459.40 --> 461.16] Coming after me -[461.16 --> 466.10] There's no wall you won't kick down -[466.10 --> 468.38] Lie you won't tear down -[468.38 --> 470.12] Coming after you -[470.12 --> 470.32] Yeah -[470.32 --> 475.02] There's no shadow you won't light up -[475.02 --> 477.26] Mountain you won't climb up -[477.26 --> 479.16] Coming after me -[479.16 --> 481.16] There's no shadow you won't climb up -[481.16 --> 483.16] There's no shadow you won't climb up -[483.16 --> 484.16] There's no shadow you won't kick down -[484.16 --> 485.40] Lie you won't tear down -[485.40 --> 486.16] Coming after me -[486.16 --> 488.16] Coming after me -[488.16 --> 497.16] Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God -[497.16 --> 503.16] Oh, it chases me down, fights till I'm found -[503.16 --> 505.16] Leaves the 99 -[505.16 --> 507.16] I couldn't earn it -[507.16 --> 509.16] I don't deserve it -[509.16 --> 513.16] Still you give yourself away -[513.16 --> 519.16] Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God -[519.16 --> 523.16] Yeah -[523.16 --> 525.16] Yeah -[525.16 --> 529.16] Yeah -[529.16 --> 559.14] I have seen you -[559.14 --> 589.12] I have seen you -[589.14 --> 619.12] I have seen you -[619.14 --> 649.12] I have seen you -[649.12 --> 679.10] I have seen you -[679.12 --> 709.10] I have seen you -[709.10 --> 739.08] I have seen you -[739.08 --> 742.46] You are mighty -[742.46 --> 746.96] You are worthy -[746.96 --> 751.34] You are worthy of praise -[751.34 --> 755.56] I will follow -[755.56 --> 759.96] I will listen -[759.96 --> 761.96] I will listen -[761.96 --> 764.96] I will love you -[764.96 --> 766.74] I will love you -[766.74 --> 769.96] All of my days -[769.96 --> 776.96] I will sing you -[776.96 --> 778.96] I will sing you -[778.96 --> 779.84] I will sing you -[779.84 --> 780.84] I will love you -[780.84 --> 785.12] I will love and adore him. -[785.36 --> 789.74] I will bow down before him. -[789.74 --> 798.40] I will thank you and worship the King who is worthy. -[798.86 --> 803.06] I will love and adore him. -[803.36 --> 807.52] I will bow down before him. -[807.52 --> 813.58] You're my Prince of Peace and I will live my life for you. -[819.98 --> 822.50] You are holy. -[825.10 --> 828.92] You are mighty. -[829.76 --> 833.46] You are worthy. -[833.46 --> 835.74] Worthy of praise. -[835.74 --> 837.74] You are worthy of praise. -[838.74 --> 839.74] I will follow. -[841.04 --> 841.74] I will follow. -[843.12 --> 844.74] I will listen. -[845.46 --> 846.94] I will listen. -[847.66 --> 849.72] I will love you. -[849.92 --> 851.74] I will love you. -[851.82 --> 853.74] All of my days. -[854.44 --> 855.74] All of my days. -[855.74 --> 857.74] I will sing. -[857.74 --> 858.00] I will sing. -[858.00 --> 859.74] I will sing. -[859.74 --> 861.74] I will worship. -[861.74 --> 862.74] I will sing. -[862.74 --> 863.74] I will sing. -[863.74 --> 864.74] I will sing. -[864.74 --> 882.74] I will love and adore Him. I will bow down before Him. I will thank Him in the service. The Savior is worthy. -[882.74 --> 898.74] I will love and adore Him. I will bow down before Him. You're my Prince of Peace and I will live my life for You. -[900.74 --> 907.74] You're my Prince of Peace and I will live my life for You. -[912.74 --> 913.74] Amen. -[915.74 --> 923.74] For our confession and assurance this morning, we'd like to read the question and answer 86 from the Heidelberg Catechism. -[923.74 --> 927.74] I will read the question and please join us in the answer. -[928.74 --> 939.74] Since we have been delivered from our misery by grace through Christ, without any merit of our own, why then should we do good works? -[939.74 --> 950.74] Because Christ, having redeemed us by His blood, is also restoring us by His heart and His image, -[950.74 --> 957.74] so that with our whole lives, we may show that we are thankful to God for His benefits, -[957.74 --> 961.74] so that we may praise through us, -[961.74 --> 965.74] so that we are assured by our faith by His words, -[966.74 --> 972.74] and so that by our godly living, our neighbors may be run over to Christ. -[972.74 --> 976.74] and so that the fruits wilderness among you and our heart and our hearts were immes�� by us, -[976.74 --> 979.74] That we may portfolios by our alphaeven for all verses that income Studios ni a world over 3766 the leapfro组 ofision where our measuring Him diversity was charismatic. -[979.74 --> 980.74] However, our opens through violence may be Hieronymously more pol...? -[980.74 --> 981.74] Amen. -[1010.74 --> 1012.74] Draw me closer. -[1015.74 --> 1020.74] Lord, my heart is set on you. -[1022.74 --> 1029.74] Let me run the race of time with your life in full demise. -[1029.74 --> 1037.74] And let the peace of God let it rain. -[1037.74 --> 1043.74] Oh, Holy Spirit, you're my comfort. -[1046.74 --> 1053.74] Strengthen me, hold my hand up high. -[1053.74 --> 1061.74] And I'll stand upon your truth, bringing glory unto you. -[1061.74 --> 1069.74] And let the peace of God let it rain. -[1069.74 --> 1077.74] Oh, Lord, I hunger for more of you. -[1078.74 --> 1081.74] Rise up within me. -[1081.74 --> 1085.74] Let me know your truth. -[1085.74 --> 1093.74] Oh, Holy Spirit, saturate my soul. -[1093.74 --> 1101.74] And let the life of God fill me down. -[1101.74 --> 1105.74] Fetch your healing power. -[1105.74 --> 1109.74] Breathe life and make me whole. -[1109.74 --> 1117.74] And let the peace of God let it rain. -[1117.74 --> 1123.74] Father of life, draw me closer. -[1123.74 --> 1129.74] Lord, my heart is set on you. -[1129.74 --> 1139.74] Let me run the race of time with your life unfolding mine. -[1139.74 --> 1145.74] And let the peace of God let it rain. -[1145.74 --> 1155.74] Oh, Holy Spirit, you're my comfort. -[1155.74 --> 1163.74] Strengthen me, hold my hand up high. -[1163.74 --> 1171.74] And I'll stand upon your truth, bringing glory unto you. -[1171.74 --> 1179.74] And let the peace of God let it rain. -[1179.74 --> 1187.74] Oh, Lord, I hunger for more of you. -[1187.74 --> 1190.74] Rise up within me. -[1190.74 --> 1195.74] Let me know your truth. -[1195.74 --> 1201.74] Oh, Holy Spirit, saturate my soul. -[1201.74 --> 1213.74] And let the life of God let it rain. -[1213.74 --> 1227.74] And let the peace of God let it rain. -[1227.74 --> 1232.74] Now, young adults, we have a teaser trailer that we would like to show for you. -[1232.74 --> 1237.74] Josh has been busy at work behind the scenes, so take a look at this. -[1237.74 --> 1247.74] How will it rain made at work behind the scenes? -[1247.74 --> 1254.74] North Hole,CHXLite in pain, does his face again? -[1257.74 --> 1260.74] Overruns our song with sorrows by Masha and Moses. -[1260.74 --> 1264.74] Olea in new monsieur Artie. -[1264.74 --> 1266.56] Western Burmulu -[1294.74 --> 1318.74] Thank you. -[1324.74 --> 1332.50] Hi, kids. Welcome to Kids' Corner again this week. I am so excited that you're joining -[1332.50 --> 1336.48] us today, and I want to invite you to please come on forward, come a little bit closer, -[1336.62 --> 1341.30] sit nice and close to the TV, at least as close as your parents will let you, and we -[1341.30 --> 1344.88] are going to, we're going to do some fun things today. We're going to hear a memory verse -[1344.88 --> 1349.08] like we do, we're going to hear a Bible story today, and it's going to be a fun time. So -[1349.08 --> 1354.02] come close, sit down, and be ready. The first thing we've got today, though, is a memory -[1354.02 --> 1358.14] verse. And before the video starts, I want to remind you, don't just watch the video, -[1358.14 --> 1362.06] whether you're at home, whether you're a kid or a grown-up, or whether you're sitting here -[1362.06 --> 1367.18] in church today, don't just watch the video. The point is to say the memory verse with them. -[1367.30 --> 1371.96] So do the actions, say the words, and let's take a look at this video right now. -[1373.14 --> 1378.10] Hi, everyone. I'm going to show you the actions for our memory verse one more time. Please -[1378.10 --> 1387.48] join me. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son, that anyone who -[1387.48 --> 1394.38] believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life. John 3, 16. -[1394.38 --> 1407.62] Hey, Hank. Hey, Kevin. Was that the lady that sat on me? Wow, Hank, that's true. She did sit on me. That was a long time ago. You still remember that? -[1407.86 --> 1414.14] I never forget. Wow, that's good. I'm glad you have such a good memory, Hank. Do you remember what we talked about last week? -[1414.14 --> 1422.46] You don't remember. Kids, do you remember what we talked about last week? It was kind of a big deal. -[1423.20 --> 1425.48] Can you say it out loud right now? One, two, three. -[1426.80 --> 1430.10] Easter. That's right, Hank. It was Easter. Right. Easter. -[1430.74 --> 1434.16] We celebrated Easter. Yeah, and we had so much fun. -[1434.82 --> 1438.14] Mrs. Nikki, she made some baked goods here at Kids Corner. -[1438.56 --> 1441.12] Maybe you got to try those at home, too, with your parents. -[1441.12 --> 1444.54] I know people at church got to try them. I was a little bit jealous that I wasn't here. -[1445.10 --> 1453.02] But we also remembered the most important thing of all, that Jesus not only died for our sins, but he rose again from the grave, -[1453.12 --> 1455.26] defeating sin and death for us. Isn't that wonderful? -[1455.78 --> 1457.24] Yeah, that is wonderful. -[1457.82 --> 1464.54] Well, today, we are going to look at a couple other stories, or not a couple other stories, one other story, -[1464.58 --> 1468.46] about a couple of men that went for a walk. -[1468.46 --> 1471.88] Do you like walks, Hank? I love walks! Yeah! -[1472.94 --> 1477.72] All right! Walk, walk, walk, walk! Hank, settle down. Walk, walk, walk! Hank, simmer down. Walk, walk, walk! -[1479.72 --> 1483.44] There we go. Simmer down. -[1484.30 --> 1485.50] Okay, I'm sorry. -[1485.88 --> 1490.72] Just sit here. We're going to read this story, okay, about two men who went for a walk. -[1490.82 --> 1493.92] It happened right after Jesus rose from the dead. -[1493.92 --> 1496.18] So we're going to take a look at that right now. Kids, are you ready? -[1497.14 --> 1498.82] You have to help me open the book, Hank. Are you ready? -[1499.18 --> 1499.44] Mm-hmm. -[1505.18 --> 1506.96] Good job, Hank. You did great. -[1507.16 --> 1507.44] Thanks. -[1507.98 --> 1512.08] All right. So this is the story of the road to Emmaus. -[1512.10 --> 1512.56] Are you ready? -[1512.84 --> 1513.18] Mm-hmm. -[1513.34 --> 1514.20] Are you ready, kids? -[1514.84 --> 1515.66] All right. Here we go. -[1515.66 --> 1519.84] Later that day, this was the day that Jesus rose from the dead. -[1520.32 --> 1524.30] Later that day, two of them were walking to a village called Emmaus -[1524.30 --> 1527.14] when a stranger came and walked along with them. -[1527.52 --> 1527.80] Hmm. -[1528.16 --> 1530.40] What are you discussing? He asked. -[1530.88 --> 1534.16] What everyone is talking about, one of the disciples answered. -[1534.76 --> 1537.08] Have you not been here the past three days? -[1537.64 --> 1540.36] Then they told the whole story of what had happened to Jesus. -[1541.10 --> 1541.46] Hmm. -[1541.46 --> 1543.76] After a stranger heard this, he said, -[1544.20 --> 1546.20] Why are you so slow to believe? -[1546.88 --> 1550.14] He reminded them of everything the prophets had written about Jesus, -[1550.54 --> 1553.78] and especially the part where Jesus would come back to life. -[1554.78 --> 1558.50] When they got to Emmaus, the disciples invited the man to have supper with them. -[1558.80 --> 1560.16] I love supper! -[1560.58 --> 1561.68] Me too. Me too, Hank. -[1562.02 --> 1567.00] He sat at their table, he took some bread, he blessed it, and he broke it. -[1567.26 --> 1568.84] And then he passed it to them. -[1569.10 --> 1569.86] And did you know what? -[1569.86 --> 1574.26] That is when they all realized that they knew him. -[1574.86 --> 1575.18] Right! -[1576.14 --> 1578.02] Lord Jesus, they cried out. -[1578.32 --> 1579.22] It's you! -[1579.84 --> 1582.82] And then suddenly, Jesus disappeared. -[1583.14 --> 1583.40] Ah! -[1584.36 --> 1587.42] They found the other disciples and told them what was happening. -[1587.76 --> 1589.14] He's alive, they agreed. -[1589.50 --> 1591.98] Our Lord Jesus lives. -[1592.64 --> 1593.74] Isn't that something? -[1594.28 --> 1598.72] These two men on the road saw Jesus after he'd come to life. -[1598.72 --> 1600.84] And Jesus explained everything that was happening. -[1601.32 --> 1602.44] Isn't that so cool? -[1602.84 --> 1604.00] That is cool! -[1604.00 --> 1609.96] Yeah, and so we can remember that too, that Jesus lives, and that he fulfilled his promises to us, -[1610.02 --> 1612.80] because God keeps his promises, right? -[1613.28 --> 1613.62] Right! -[1614.22 --> 1616.44] Hank, I wanted to share something else that's happening right now. -[1616.50 --> 1621.26] Did you know that people are driving around, dropping off treats at people's doors right now, -[1621.32 --> 1622.66] to celebrate community? -[1622.66 --> 1623.66] Wow! -[1623.66 --> 1625.02] What kind of treats? -[1625.22 --> 1626.06] Oh, all sorts of things. -[1626.28 --> 1627.10] Like bones? -[1627.56 --> 1629.14] I'm not sure people are bringing bones. -[1629.24 --> 1629.36] No. -[1629.58 --> 1631.16] What about those snossages? -[1631.62 --> 1633.24] I don't think people eat snossages. -[1633.40 --> 1634.98] I think that's just something you eat, Hank. -[1635.26 --> 1635.52] Hmm. -[1635.92 --> 1636.74] What about sticks? -[1636.98 --> 1638.12] Yeah, I think they're bringing sticks. -[1638.26 --> 1638.94] I think that's what they're doing. -[1639.00 --> 1641.12] They're dropping lots of sticks off at people's doors. -[1641.56 --> 1642.74] That is awesome! -[1643.24 --> 1644.28] Maybe I'll get one. -[1644.62 --> 1644.90] Maybe. -[1645.02 --> 1647.08] We'll have to send out your address to people for that, right? -[1647.32 --> 1647.60] Hmm. -[1647.64 --> 1648.30] Can you do that? -[1648.30 --> 1649.84] We'll see how that all goes, okay, Hank? -[1650.16 --> 1650.44] All right. -[1650.52 --> 1654.54] So take part in that church, too, as a celebration of community and the body of believers that -[1654.54 --> 1657.94] Jesus died and rose again for as well. -[1657.98 --> 1659.82] And remember our neighbors in that way, too. -[1660.22 --> 1662.88] So that's what we wanted to talk about today. -[1662.96 --> 1663.46] Was that fun? -[1663.74 --> 1664.08] Mm-hmm. -[1664.22 --> 1665.00] Was that fun, kids? -[1665.88 --> 1666.40] All right. -[1666.44 --> 1666.66] Good. -[1666.84 --> 1672.08] So let me pray, and then we will be able to do the crafts and other activities that maybe -[1672.08 --> 1674.98] your parents have or that Mrs. Nikki has emailed out to you all. -[1675.08 --> 1675.96] So let's pray. -[1675.96 --> 1681.54] Dear God, thank you so much for this wonderful story of these two men on the road to Emmaus. -[1681.98 --> 1687.86] Thank you for your promise to defeat sin and evil for us and for the sacrifice you made -[1687.86 --> 1692.74] for us and that you rose again from the dead and that we can be reminded of that today again -[1692.74 --> 1693.90] and again and again. -[1694.40 --> 1699.90] Be with us as we remember that, that we can live lives of kindness and that we can live -[1699.90 --> 1701.28] lives serving you. -[1701.74 --> 1704.60] We just pray that you will allow us to remember to do that. -[1704.60 --> 1705.78] We pray this in your name. -[1706.14 --> 1706.38] Amen. -[1706.92 --> 1707.60] Say bye, Hank. -[1707.84 --> 1708.76] Bye, Hank! -[1708.96 --> 1710.56] That joke doesn't get old for you, does it? -[1710.68 --> 1711.12] Mm-mm. -[1711.66 --> 1712.26] Bye, kids. -[1712.26 --> 1718.68] Good morning. -[1718.68 --> 1725.96] My name is John, and I serve as one of the elders here in Emmanuel Church here. -[1726.86 --> 1734.28] I would like to, this morning, let you know what we are, where our offerings are for today, -[1734.28 --> 1740.54] and we will continue to worship as we tithe with the gifts that God has blessed us with. -[1741.10 --> 1747.46] Today's offering is for the budget of this church and for World Renew Refugee Sponsorship. -[1747.46 --> 1754.18] When we think of refugees, we hear the biblical call to welcome the stranger. -[1756.18 --> 1758.20] In Leviticus, we find these words, -[1758.20 --> 1763.16] When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. -[1763.82 --> 1769.22] The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. -[1770.16 --> 1774.68] Love them as yourselves, for you are foreigners in Egypt. -[1774.74 --> 1784.30] World Renew is an official sponsorship agreement holder with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada. -[1784.30 --> 1792.68] This enables the CRC, the Christian Reformed Church, to sponsor refugees for resettlement to Canada. -[1793.62 --> 1800.08] Since 1979, World Renew has responded to needs of refugees from around the globe -[1800.08 --> 1805.30] and helped settle over 10,500 refugees in Canada. -[1806.44 --> 1811.96] More specifically, World Renew has made it possible for this church -[1811.96 --> 1816.24] to settle two families, a total of 12 people, from Iraq. -[1817.64 --> 1824.46] World Renew Refugee Sponsorship is a way of putting faith into action that changes lives, -[1825.68 --> 1829.20] both that of this refugee and the sponsor. -[1829.20 --> 1848.12] World Renew Refugee Sponsorship is a Canadian Christian charity that advances Christ-centered education in Central America, -[1849.12 --> 1853.52] the Caribbean, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Southeast Asia. -[1853.52 --> 1862.12] Established first in the United States in 1986, it now has offices in Hamilton, Ontario also. -[1863.46 --> 1866.84] Every child needs purpose, meaning, and joy. -[1867.88 --> 1871.00] Christ-centered education does just that. -[1871.20 --> 1877.48] Edudeo works exclusively through partnerships with locally-led organizations. -[1877.48 --> 1887.46] In the past, Edudeo has partnered with Langley Christian in Gondolikwithwa in South Africa. -[1888.10 --> 1890.06] And I apologize if I mispronounce that. -[1890.94 --> 1897.62] After the service, remember to give generously using the links that you find in your e-bulletin. -[1904.44 --> 1907.08] We will now come to the Lord in prayer. -[1907.08 --> 1913.26] And before I do that, we do that, I would like to just make an announcement here. -[1915.58 --> 1925.92] We are in our church in that season where we are looking for men and women to serve in leadership positions of elder and deacon in this church. -[1926.08 --> 1929.00] And so I would just like to read these words to you. -[1929.00 --> 1959.00] -[1959.00 --> 1965.18] We are in our church. -[1965.18 --> 1970.96] The call of the church through nominations, the call of God to serve the bride of Christ is voiced. -[1972.14 --> 1978.68] A link to the nomination form is available through the midweek memo and the e-bulletin. -[1978.68 --> 1995.34] Please complete the following form by submitting a name or names of individuals who you have approached and are willing to serve as either an administration elder, pastoral elder, or deacon. -[1995.34 --> 2001.96] You can submit more than one name or more than one position. -[2002.60 --> 2005.66] We have a total of eight vacancies this year. -[2006.34 --> 2014.96] If you are being called, please prayerfully consider serving the church in this capacity. -[2014.96 --> 2022.20] The nomination forms, we will be closing this on April 19th. -[2022.50 --> 2030.56] If you have any questions about this, serving on council or the process of nomination, please contact your district elder. -[2030.56 --> 2060.54] We will enter in prayer. -[2060.56 --> 2061.56] I am confident of that. -[2061.56 --> 2068.10] I am confident that he is here with us and that he hears us. -[2070.50 --> 2075.22] I also, something hit me this morning as we were worshiping in song. -[2077.34 --> 2082.20] As we worship virtually from our homes, we listen to the words being spoken. -[2082.38 --> 2085.56] We sing the songs that are being sung. -[2086.40 --> 2089.34] But there is nothing like singing in church. -[2090.56 --> 2091.82] This is a wonderful experience. -[2091.82 --> 2097.52] And we do look forward to the day where we may all come together again in body to worship together here. -[2097.66 --> 2098.78] It will be wonderful. -[2100.38 --> 2101.92] We are going to come in prayer. -[2102.02 --> 2103.00] There's a few things. -[2103.00 --> 2107.44] There are many things that we want to remember this morning. -[2107.44 --> 2109.70] And I know that God hears us. -[2109.70 --> 2112.68] The words spoken and also the words that are not spoken. -[2113.74 --> 2122.98] And in your e-bulletin and in the midweek memoirs, you will find a lot of notices and things that are mentioned that we need to remember in prayer. -[2123.12 --> 2125.78] And I will perhaps forget some of them this morning. -[2125.78 --> 2128.34] The Lord will forgive us. -[2129.24 --> 2131.94] But he does hear us and he knows our thoughts. -[2132.80 --> 2136.06] And so we will bow our heads. -[2136.18 --> 2137.68] I want to mention a few things. -[2137.78 --> 2142.46] One is Aaron Alkema has contracted COVID-19. -[2142.46 --> 2150.64] And remember him and his family, Brenda and Rob and the kids as well as they navigate through this. -[2150.92 --> 2155.82] There perhaps are others in our church who are experiencing this as well or going through it in other ways. -[2156.36 --> 2158.46] And so there are some challenges with that. -[2160.74 --> 2162.72] Shall we come to the Lord in prayer? -[2166.26 --> 2167.38] Our Father in heaven, -[2167.38 --> 2170.72] What a morning. -[2171.04 --> 2171.88] What a beautiful day. -[2172.46 --> 2183.42] Lord, you have brought us here together to worship you in word and in song, in body and in spirit. -[2185.18 --> 2194.24] Lord, there are a few of us here in the church building and yet we know there are many more who are worshiping virtually through the screen. -[2195.82 --> 2198.44] Lord, we thank you for technology. -[2198.62 --> 2200.34] We thank you that we were able to do that. -[2200.34 --> 2201.58] And still, -[2201.58 --> 2207.10] Lord, we do look forward to the day when we be here together again. -[2209.94 --> 2210.80] Lord, there are, -[2211.30 --> 2213.38] you are a great God. -[2213.86 --> 2215.58] You have provided us with so much. -[2215.90 --> 2217.92] You have provided us with all that we stand in need of. -[2218.84 --> 2220.96] Each day, Lord, and still we -[2220.96 --> 2224.32] so often want more, -[2224.32 --> 2231.22] we become selfish and greedy and that, Lord, may we know that we are in your hand above us. -[2231.28 --> 2235.90] Thank you for our church family. -[2235.90 --> 2247.88] Lord, we pray that we may not be together at this time still, Lord, that you would watch over each one. -[2247.88 --> 2254.66] Lord, we pray for Aaron Alkama. -[2256.40 --> 2261.00] Lord, as he navigates through COVID, -[2261.12 --> 2263.44] he's now in the illness. -[2263.74 --> 2265.94] We pray, Lord, that you would provide healing. -[2266.48 --> 2272.90] We pray for the family that they navigate this with him through isolation and other means that are necessary. -[2272.90 --> 2275.58] Lord, give them strength. -[2276.58 --> 2280.68] Lord, we pray that for other families, too, that may be going through this also. -[2281.48 --> 2286.14] But even though we may not know who they are, Lord, you do know them and we pray for them. -[2286.24 --> 2287.88] And that you know them also. -[2289.14 --> 2294.84] Lord, there are many in our church who also are being isolated. -[2296.38 --> 2297.86] Through this, we pray for Judy. -[2299.00 --> 2300.24] Lord, we pray for Janet. -[2300.24 --> 2300.34] Lord, we pray for Janet. -[2302.90 --> 2310.20] There are others, Lord, too, whose health is suffering and, Lord, who have illnesses, -[2310.90 --> 2316.38] which also causes them to not be able to do the things that they want. -[2318.08 --> 2319.52] Lord, we pray for each one. -[2319.60 --> 2320.62] We pray for healing. -[2322.04 --> 2324.14] Lord, we pray for your hand over each one. -[2324.14 --> 2330.34] Lord, we pray for Mike, Sam's brother. -[2331.30 --> 2336.56] Lord, who grieves with his family, children and grandchildren at this time, the death of his wife. -[2340.22 --> 2343.96] And, Lord, we pray that you would give them strength, that you would give them comfort. -[2343.96 --> 2352.38] Lord, may they lean on you and know, Lord, that you are there watching over them and that you care for them. -[2354.66 --> 2361.92] Lord, we pray for George also as he grieves the passing away of his wife. -[2362.76 --> 2366.66] Him, Lord, we pray for him and his family also. -[2366.66 --> 2371.46] Protect them, Lord, give them what they stand in need of. -[2371.46 --> 2375.94] We pray for the Bridge Church as they also go through this with George. -[2379.52 --> 2383.48] Lord, may each one know that you are there and that you care for them. -[2383.48 --> 2390.28] Lord, we pray that Frank may continue to experience healing of his back -[2390.28 --> 2398.10] and that he too may soon again be able to do his normal daily activities again. -[2400.00 --> 2406.92] Lord, we want to remember those who are unemployed at this time. -[2406.92 --> 2413.46] Lord, each week there seems to be new restrictions and sometimes restrictions get loosened. -[2413.48 --> 2414.72] And then they get tightened again. -[2414.84 --> 2419.36] And, Lord, for many their jobs become unsecure. -[2420.92 --> 2423.52] Not knowing, Lord, what each day will be like. -[2423.62 --> 2426.40] And, Lord, this is difficult for people to navigate through. -[2426.40 --> 2430.44] And it brings in emotional roller coasters. -[2430.68 --> 2434.28] Lord, may we lean on you during these difficult times also. -[2434.28 --> 2445.14] And, Lord, we pray that each one may again find reliable employment and secure employment. -[2447.48 --> 2449.52] Lord, you have gifted each one. -[2449.52 --> 2455.10] And we pray, Lord, that each may be able to use the gifts that you have given them to. -[2455.10 --> 2462.58] Lord, there are many who are also experiencing relationships that struggle and that are broken. -[2465.08 --> 2469.88] For husbands and wives, for their children, Lord, and grandchildren that are involved. -[2471.96 --> 2476.48] Lord, these are difficult roads to navigate also. -[2476.48 --> 2480.54] And, Lord, we pray for healing. -[2481.86 --> 2492.98] We pray, Lord, that each one would seek you for to make things better again. -[2493.26 --> 2496.76] And, Lord, we thank you for this church. -[2496.92 --> 2499.70] We thank you, Lord, for the programs also that we have here. -[2499.70 --> 2502.60] And, Lord, we pray for gems. -[2502.82 --> 2503.74] We pray for the youth. -[2505.36 --> 2512.20] Lord, we pray for the programs that they have each week or each other, every other week that they may go well. -[2515.08 --> 2525.02] And, Lord, now as we also go through this treat tag, Lord, these are programs that we hope to be able to encourage youth to get involved in. -[2525.02 --> 2536.86] Lord, Lord, to hold them together and that, Lord, in all things, they too would be able to be involved in this church. -[2539.80 --> 2543.98] Lord, we pray for the leadership of this church. -[2544.76 --> 2547.06] We thank you for each one that gives us the time. -[2547.06 --> 2562.10] Lord, we pray that as we seek nominations of those, Lord, who are able to serve in the capacity of admin or pastoral elder or deacon, Lord, -[2562.14 --> 2568.54] that you would work in their hearts through your spirit, that they would be encouraged to let their name stand. -[2571.54 --> 2576.84] So that the work of this church may continue, that we may continue to serve as a light in this community. -[2577.06 --> 2583.96] Lord, we pray that we may be able to spread your good news to those who do not know you. -[2584.50 --> 2591.62] Lord, we pray that this day, too, there would be many who would turn their hearts to you as they hear your word, maybe perhaps for the first time. -[2592.66 --> 2597.44] We ask, Lord, to be with Pastor Chris this morning. -[2597.44 --> 2614.14] Lord, as he brings your word to us, through your spirit, Lord, may he be given the words to speak, that he may speak them boldly, that we may hear them, Lord, and that we may obey you. -[2614.96 --> 2616.62] We pray this, Lord, in your name. -[2617.06 --> 2617.40] Amen. -[2617.40 --> 2617.56] Amen. -[2617.56 --> 2617.64] Amen. -[2626.38 --> 2630.26] We're going to come together and hear God's word. -[2630.58 --> 2632.86] We're jumping back into the book of James. -[2632.86 --> 2638.56] And so if you have a Bible in hand or on a device, wherever that might be, I encourage you to grab that. -[2639.14 --> 2641.26] This morning we're going to read from James 3. -[2641.60 --> 2645.38] We're going to go from verse 13 through verse 18. -[2645.38 --> 2651.60] And as you're getting that ready, I want to put an image in front of you and encourage you to hold that. -[2651.68 --> 2654.60] And so here I have a pitcher of water and a glass. -[2657.58 --> 2658.74] Here's a glass of water. -[2660.98 --> 2663.96] And then I have a bottle of water. -[2666.02 --> 2672.00] I probably should have opened, but leave that here so that you can prove that it's just a regular bottle of water. -[2673.04 --> 2674.56] And so here you have a glass of water. -[2675.38 --> 2685.80] Now, if we were to play the shuffle dice game and move these around back and forth, which I'm not going to do, by looking at them, would you be able to tell which is which? -[2686.70 --> 2689.44] Other than the fact that I didn't pour them evenly, Kevin, I see that. -[2691.92 --> 2692.86] They look identical. -[2694.12 --> 2699.76] Two glasses of water that look, for all intents and purposes, exactly the same. -[2699.76 --> 2706.58] Hold that image as we read James 3, starting in verse 13. -[2706.58 --> 2714.26] Who is wise and understanding among you? -[2715.06 --> 2720.22] Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in humility that comes from wisdom. -[2721.56 --> 2728.72] But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition, in your hearts do not boast about it or deny the truth. -[2728.72 --> 2734.96] Such wisdom does not come from heaven, but is earthly, unspiritual, and demonic. -[2736.26 --> 2743.38] For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. -[2743.38 --> 2748.46] But the wisdom that comes from heaven is, first of all, pure. -[2749.34 --> 2756.22] Then, peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. -[2757.46 --> 2762.42] Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness. -[2763.76 --> 2765.02] This is the word of the Lord. -[2765.02 --> 2779.10] As we begin, let me sort of give you my goal or my purpose statement, what I hope that we will see together, and then we will dig deep into that. -[2779.76 --> 2780.36] So here it is. -[2781.16 --> 2782.84] If you're taking notes, this is for you. -[2783.86 --> 2791.22] How you live in the world will be determined by the wisdom about the world that you hold as true. -[2791.22 --> 2797.68] How you live in the world will be determined by the wisdom about the world that you hold as true. -[2797.78 --> 2807.62] Or let's say that your view of how the world works and what is best in the world will shape how you behave, believe, and belong. -[2808.86 --> 2809.04] Right? -[2809.14 --> 2814.28] This worldview is the word that in our church tradition we have often come back to. -[2814.62 --> 2814.74] Right? -[2814.78 --> 2819.86] This worldview is the wisdom you operate out of for life. -[2821.22 --> 2833.68] In our lives, then, there is what I'm calling a wisdom war that is constantly battling for dominance and supremacy in how you see and function in the world. -[2833.74 --> 2836.86] Or how you behave, believe, and belong in the world. -[2837.60 --> 2842.24] And this wisdom war really is as old as time. -[2842.24 --> 2848.06] The story of the creation of the world in Genesis 1 and 2. -[2848.58 --> 2858.34] We are introduced to a pair of people named Adam and Eve who stand as federal heads, as representatives for all of humanity, created in the image of God. -[2858.34 --> 2867.92] And in Genesis 3, we get the story of the serpent, of the devil, coming in and deceiving Eve and Adam. -[2869.48 --> 2872.46] And the devil whispers and says, -[2873.08 --> 2875.60] Did God really say? -[2876.28 --> 2881.70] Did God really say that if you ate of this tree, you would certainly die? -[2881.70 --> 2895.56] Did God really say that if you ate of this tree, you would certainly be the same as time as time as time as time? -[2895.56 --> 2899.88] And it is in every aspect of how we behave, believe, and belong. -[2900.80 --> 2908.14] Now, in this text from James 3, there is a contrast between two ideas of wisdom. -[2908.14 --> 2913.58] On the one hand, you have a wisdom that comes from heaven, and then you have a wisdom that doesn't. -[2914.76 --> 2920.04] Now, the first kind of wisdom, as we read, and you can take the whole thing in, is born of humility. -[2920.54 --> 2923.58] It's revealed not first in what you know, but in what you do. -[2923.96 --> 2924.94] So that's verse 13. -[2925.28 --> 2932.92] This wisdom is described as being pure and peace-loving, considerate and submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. -[2933.48 --> 2937.72] The second kind of wisdom is rooted in envy. -[2938.14 --> 2939.56] And selfish ambition. -[2940.34 --> 2944.74] It manifests disorder and every evil practice, right? -[2944.84 --> 2948.54] James says that it is earthly, unspiritual, and demonic. -[2948.76 --> 2952.88] And as I read through that, I really can't help but think about the book of Judges. -[2952.96 --> 2960.04] And if you're familiar with that story, in the Old Testament, right, you get the refrain that comes up over and over at the end, -[2960.10 --> 2962.58] that everyone did what was right in his own eyes. -[2962.58 --> 2971.14] That's the kind of society of selfish ambition, evil disorder, and evil practices that's being contrasted with. -[2972.66 --> 2982.40] Now, to get at this more precisely, in verse 17, we are told that wisdom that comes from heaven is pure. -[2982.40 --> 2988.16] I just want to focus in on that word for a moment as a way to get at the whole here. -[2988.88 --> 2996.04] Now, that word pure is a word that is related to the Greek word for holy, right? -[2996.06 --> 3000.00] And the word pure means undefiled or ritually holy. -[3000.20 --> 3001.80] It means uncontaminated. -[3001.80 --> 3011.02] There's a reason why I poured two glasses of water, because there's a good illustration here for what this word means that comes from chemistry. -[3012.02 --> 3018.30] Now, pure water is, in chemistry, what's called a pure chemical compound. -[3019.34 --> 3022.18] And this is from a textbook that I looked up this week, so this isn't for me. -[3022.18 --> 3029.72] But a pure chemical compound is a chemical substance that is composed of a particular set of molecules or ions that are chemically bonded. -[3029.72 --> 3033.84] Now, if you understood that, you remember grade 12 chemistry. -[3034.12 --> 3034.50] Good job. -[3035.44 --> 3043.86] Now, pure water is a pure chemical compound because it has the same properties and the same ratio of hydrogen to oxygen, -[3044.24 --> 3048.12] whether you get it from a river or it's made in a laboratory, right? -[3048.54 --> 3049.12] H2O. -[3049.24 --> 3052.00] There are two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. -[3052.32 --> 3054.36] They're bonded together, and that makes a water molecule. -[3054.36 --> 3064.10] Now, if you take a glass of bottled water or pure water and put it beside a glass of tap water from the kitchen, -[3064.20 --> 3068.32] this is from the kitchen here at church, it looks exactly the same. -[3068.94 --> 3075.74] Now, I get, before we go too far into this illustration, that there are parts of the world and there are parts of Canada, absolutely, -[3076.28 --> 3077.86] where this illustration doesn't work. -[3077.86 --> 3085.74] And I want to acknowledge that that is a problem, and that's a serious one, but the justice issue of that is a problem for another day, right? -[3085.80 --> 3094.86] In most of our lives and most of us who are participating here, right, with your kitchen water and your pure water, you don't see a difference. -[3096.28 --> 3098.46] But there is one, right? -[3098.56 --> 3101.52] Pure water is hydrogen and oxygen. -[3101.52 --> 3108.74] Tap water is going to have chloride and iron and calcium and chlorine in it, right? -[3108.76 --> 3110.50] You might even be able to taste the difference. -[3111.64 --> 3116.30] But then you'd have to ingest it, and you have to take it in, and then really you've already drank it, so it's already there. -[3117.16 --> 3118.68] And again, let me be clear, okay? -[3118.72 --> 3122.08] Every analogy breaks down, and this is where this analogy breaks down, right? -[3122.08 --> 3130.24] In your tap water, in proper ratios of parts per million, having those other elements of chloride, iron, and calcium, and chlorine, that's not a bad thing, right? -[3130.24 --> 3135.84] In many cases, those things are added in order to ensure that the water you drink is potable, is drinkable. -[3137.74 --> 3145.56] The point that I'm trying to highlight here is that two things can look the same and yet be totally different. -[3146.42 --> 3151.22] Or one can be a gross perversion of the other. -[3152.22 --> 3159.26] And in our post-Christian world, I think that's what wisdom is like. -[3160.24 --> 3166.92] Because of the impact of Christianity on Western history, because of the influence that the Christian faith has had on language, -[3167.16 --> 3172.68] the two types of wisdom that James is contrasting can actually end up looking very much the same. -[3174.18 --> 3177.18] They can even appear to be the same, right? -[3177.22 --> 3182.18] Just a different source of the same thing, or just a different version of the same with the same goal. -[3182.52 --> 3185.54] Drink deeply of either, and you will be satiated. -[3185.54 --> 3189.62] Right? You can satisfy your thirst on tap water or on pure water. -[3189.74 --> 3190.74] Both get the job done. -[3191.60 --> 3193.58] One of them is just easier come by. -[3194.28 --> 3195.54] All you have to do is turn on the tap. -[3195.92 --> 3200.30] One of them is right there, always within reach in the best possible times and circumstances. -[3200.70 --> 3207.42] The other requires you to look deeper, to investigate it under a microscope of critical engagement and discernment. -[3207.66 --> 3209.68] And for some of us, that's just too hard of work. -[3209.68 --> 3213.86] Truth is, of course, we like the easier way. -[3215.34 --> 3219.28] Let me give you an example of what I'm talking about this, of this contrast here. -[3219.98 --> 3225.60] It is commonly accepted wisdom in the majority world, but primarily the Western world here, -[3225.68 --> 3230.94] that there is such a thing as universally applicable human rights. -[3231.22 --> 3231.40] Right? -[3231.40 --> 3235.92] That there is an inherent dignity to every human being by virtue of being human. -[3236.78 --> 3239.00] And as Christians, we believe this to be true. -[3240.16 --> 3246.52] Likewise, most non-Christians in the world today, even hardcore secular atheists, believe that that is true. -[3247.48 --> 3253.50] The wisdom of human dignity and human rights is common to us all in the Western world. -[3253.50 --> 3262.50] But, as Christians, we believe that this is true because of our being created in the image of God. -[3263.00 --> 3263.10] Right? -[3263.16 --> 3268.72] Precisely because God created them, male and female, in the image of God, he created them in Genesis 1, 27. -[3269.30 --> 3276.30] We believe that all people, regardless of race or gender, ability, age, orientation, or any other identifying characteristic, -[3276.48 --> 3277.60] have a dignity and worth. -[3277.66 --> 3281.74] That all people have a meaning and purpose and have an identity that comes from God. -[3281.74 --> 3290.64] People are worthy of being treated justly because God is a God of justice and we are created in his image. -[3291.46 --> 3298.66] People are worthy of being treated mercifully because God is the God of mercy, slow to anger and abounding in love. -[3298.74 --> 3303.36] And we are created in his image to be like him and to treat others like him. -[3303.36 --> 3312.66] And we believe that these truths about what it means to be human are universally applicable, really, -[3313.04 --> 3318.12] that they stand apart from time and space, are true in all time and in all places, -[3318.28 --> 3323.94] because God himself stands apart from time and space, that he is transcendent and unchanging. -[3323.94 --> 3329.78] And so the truth that he created us in is likewise transcendent and unchanging. -[3331.42 --> 3337.64] And yet, as we've seen, we live in a world that affirms the idea of human rights and universal dignity, -[3337.84 --> 3342.24] but not the source of those rights and dignity. -[3343.34 --> 3343.48] Right? -[3343.52 --> 3349.58] As recently as 1948, the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, -[3349.58 --> 3351.92] in which it states, quote, -[3352.42 --> 3357.96] recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family -[3357.96 --> 3361.68] is the foundation of freedom, justice, and peace in the world. -[3362.32 --> 3367.24] All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights, end quote. -[3367.62 --> 3373.06] And yet, in that document, there are no grounds for why this is true. -[3373.16 --> 3374.80] There's no reason why this is true. -[3374.86 --> 3376.80] It's just stated as true. -[3376.80 --> 3380.42] And that struggle continues. -[3381.48 --> 3384.98] Now, I get what we're about to do is going to get a little bit technical. -[3385.14 --> 3386.50] It's going to get a little bit philosophical. -[3387.00 --> 3389.12] And that might not be your cup of tea. -[3389.24 --> 3390.28] And I understand that. -[3390.32 --> 3391.06] And I appreciate that. -[3391.08 --> 3394.00] And I encourage you just to sort of dig in with us for a moment, -[3394.34 --> 3396.34] because I do think this is a really important point. -[3397.60 --> 3403.96] And I also don't want to set up the contrast that I'm about to make as a straw man. -[3403.96 --> 3408.86] And look, as Christians, I think that we can have the integrity to tackle the hardest challenges to our faith, -[3408.90 --> 3409.98] not just the easiest ones. -[3410.04 --> 3412.10] And so I want to lead by example in that. -[3412.18 --> 3414.84] And so this past week, in preparing for this, -[3414.88 --> 3419.78] I kind of dug into the canon of secular atheists and humanists, -[3419.78 --> 3426.04] trying to find a compelling answer to the question of why universal human rights are true for all of us. -[3426.04 --> 3431.54] And in the midst of that, right, there are some pretty easily refutable ideas that are presented. -[3432.48 --> 3437.80] So, for instance, some people have proposed the idea of a social contract -[3437.80 --> 3444.24] that ensures the continuation of the species as the ground for which why we have universal human rights. -[3444.32 --> 3446.16] But this falls prey. -[3446.26 --> 3448.28] We don't need to get into the details of it because it's too easy. -[3448.28 --> 3450.38] But to the criticisms of social Darwinism, -[3450.38 --> 3453.82] and it also doesn't account for why, in life and in practice, -[3454.12 --> 3460.18] we believe that the marginalized minority of our society deserve an outsized representation. -[3461.00 --> 3464.10] Likewise, there's another idea that tries to answer this -[3464.10 --> 3467.68] that is a sort of a game theory evolutionary argument -[3467.68 --> 3472.34] that really, in the end, doesn't account for the human value placed on altruism. -[3472.34 --> 3479.88] And so, the best argument that I could find in this past week -[3479.88 --> 3486.70] actually comes from a very boisterous and loud atheist in the world today named Sam Harris. -[3486.88 --> 3488.46] I trust some of you have heard of him. -[3488.98 --> 3491.10] A number of years ago, five years ago or so, -[3491.18 --> 3494.02] he wrote a book called The Moral Landscape. -[3494.54 --> 3497.08] And then subsequent to that, he's written a number of blogs and articles -[3497.08 --> 3498.54] and had debates and conversations. -[3498.54 --> 3501.96] Anyway, in this book, The Moral Landscape, -[3501.96 --> 3505.62] he outlines what I think, in my exposure anyway, -[3505.76 --> 3508.30] may be the best argument, secular argument, -[3508.44 --> 3511.34] for why humans have universal dignity, -[3511.52 --> 3513.08] why there is a universal morality. -[3514.10 --> 3516.44] And in fact, to Harris's credit in this, -[3517.08 --> 3519.48] years after he first published that book, -[3519.84 --> 3523.76] he invited a public testing of his thesis. -[3524.68 --> 3524.80] Right? -[3524.84 --> 3526.44] And so, he invited an essay contest, -[3526.44 --> 3530.00] and then the winning essay he gave a reward to -[3530.00 --> 3531.60] that best criticized his work, -[3531.60 --> 3533.38] and then he responded to that winning essay. -[3534.00 --> 3534.88] And as part of that, he said, -[3534.96 --> 3537.48] if you change my mind, I'll give you $20,000. -[3538.20 --> 3540.40] If you just write the best essay, you'll get $2,000. -[3541.10 --> 3544.44] Needless to say, the guy who won the essay contest only got $2,000. -[3544.78 --> 3549.00] But I appreciate that he was willing to engage deeply into that. -[3549.94 --> 3552.40] And like I said, I didn't want this to be a straw man argument, -[3552.50 --> 3554.82] and so I wanted to find the best argument here. -[3554.82 --> 3561.52] But Harris's basic thesis in this point is that morality can be scientifically determined -[3561.52 --> 3564.28] because moral truths exist, -[3564.50 --> 3567.54] and therefore, they must fall within some understanding -[3567.54 --> 3570.90] of the way conscious minds arise in the universe. -[3570.90 --> 3575.78] Now, Harris will go on to say that it is well-being, -[3576.14 --> 3578.94] or in fact, he will ground it in the other end of the spectrum, -[3579.02 --> 3582.56] a category that he develops called the worst possible misery for everyone. -[3583.40 --> 3589.08] And it's this idea that reveals what are moral truths for conscious minds. -[3589.46 --> 3594.12] Very carefully, in Harris's construction, this is not consequentialism, -[3594.24 --> 3596.64] this is not classical utilitarianism, -[3596.64 --> 3600.86] which, in fact, if it was either one of those things that would make it subject to those criticisms -[3600.86 --> 3602.32] that I offered earlier. -[3603.50 --> 3609.98] And again, I appreciate how Harris acknowledges that it is hard to come up with universal moral imperatives. -[3610.72 --> 3612.54] And I think it's part of the strength of his position. -[3613.14 --> 3614.24] In fact, Harris writes, -[3614.96 --> 3615.16] quote, -[3615.24 --> 3619.30] People want an ethical standard that gives them clear guidance in every situation -[3619.30 --> 3621.06] and doesn't require too much of them. -[3621.56 --> 3623.86] People want it to be easy, to be good, -[3623.86 --> 3628.02] and they don't want to think that they're not living as good a life as they could be. -[3628.54 --> 3634.54] And this is especially true when balancing one's personal well-being versus the well-being of society, end quote. -[3635.30 --> 3638.68] And while it is hard for Harris, in his argument, -[3638.86 --> 3646.24] it is at least theoretically possible to discern morality from scientific epistemology, -[3646.36 --> 3648.10] the scientific ways of knowing the world, -[3648.10 --> 3655.30] and then, out of that, it isn't a leap to make prescriptions for how we ought to behave together. -[3655.86 --> 3658.58] For prescriptions for what he calls well-being. -[3659.80 --> 3662.82] But, and here's where the criticism comes, -[3663.54 --> 3666.62] Harris, in constructing his argument this way, -[3666.72 --> 3670.96] is required to say that our knowledge of morality -[3670.96 --> 3675.72] is ultimately intuited in the system. -[3675.72 --> 3676.72] Right? -[3677.32 --> 3682.84] It's ultimately something we feel before we can know it or define it. -[3683.78 --> 3685.80] So in that way, it's not dissimilar, -[3685.88 --> 3686.76] and he admits this too, -[3686.94 --> 3690.70] from Immanuel Kant's version of universal categorical imperatives. -[3690.86 --> 3693.46] Again, we don't need to get too far into that, -[3693.54 --> 3694.18] but the point is, -[3694.42 --> 3698.66] it still doesn't answer the fundamental question of why this moral behavior -[3698.66 --> 3700.40] and not that moral behavior. -[3701.12 --> 3704.78] And it doesn't answer the question about what is unique about human beings -[3704.78 --> 3708.38] that makes something like mercy and justice not competing values, -[3708.52 --> 3710.46] but complementary values. -[3710.46 --> 3715.46] It doesn't address how such virtues are truly transcendent and not situational, -[3715.80 --> 3719.16] right, beyond the argument that they are just because they are. -[3719.88 --> 3721.08] Because that's ultimately where he lands. -[3721.18 --> 3725.22] In the end, Harris, I think, is forced to say that when it comes to morality, -[3725.22 --> 3729.14] specifically when it comes to universal human rights, -[3729.54 --> 3731.08] it just is. -[3732.34 --> 3735.00] And because for Harris, God isn't, -[3735.96 --> 3737.56] something else has to be. -[3738.56 --> 3743.24] But there's no way that Harris can empirically prove either claim to be true, -[3743.64 --> 3743.84] right? -[3743.86 --> 3746.02] For all his claims about this being scientific, -[3746.02 --> 3747.34] he can't prove it, -[3748.08 --> 3749.66] but he really does believe it. -[3751.50 --> 3756.94] And I'm not sure that it's ultimately a compelling or a cogent belief, -[3757.94 --> 3758.08] right? -[3758.12 --> 3761.82] Why would he trust his intuition about what is moral? -[3761.98 --> 3764.84] Why should he trust his intuition about what is moral? -[3765.84 --> 3767.88] And yet, like we said, -[3768.00 --> 3770.78] Harris's way of understanding morality in the world -[3770.78 --> 3775.54] is a form of wisdom that has so much traction in the world today. -[3775.74 --> 3777.64] And on the surface, right, -[3777.68 --> 3780.58] it looks very much the same sort of wisdom -[3780.58 --> 3783.10] because the end results are the same. -[3783.44 --> 3786.14] People are treated with dignity and respect. -[3787.18 --> 3789.08] Hopefully, what we will begin to see -[3789.08 --> 3792.24] is that it's not actually the same. -[3793.78 --> 3798.62] Now, I really believe that it is only ultimately in relationship to God -[3798.62 --> 3800.50] and God who created us -[3800.50 --> 3803.48] that we can begin to make real sense -[3803.48 --> 3807.24] of these sorts of foundational claims about our reality, -[3807.46 --> 3809.72] specifically here about our morality. -[3810.66 --> 3813.08] And that people who don't believe in God -[3813.08 --> 3815.26] can still come up with ideas -[3815.26 --> 3818.74] about what is good and what is moral behavior, -[3819.06 --> 3822.74] what it means to properly believe, behave, and belong. -[3823.54 --> 3825.72] I think that they are able to do that in the end -[3825.72 --> 3827.68] because that's just further evidence -[3827.68 --> 3830.10] of the image of God in them, right? -[3830.10 --> 3833.32] The imagio dei in all of us is working out, -[3833.46 --> 3835.48] enabling us to see this reality, -[3835.56 --> 3838.24] even if we can't name it particularly. -[3839.66 --> 3841.40] And like I said, this is just one example -[3841.40 --> 3843.50] where we spent a little bit of time, -[3843.58 --> 3845.76] but there are countless other ways -[3845.76 --> 3848.70] that this works out in the world, right? -[3848.74 --> 3852.04] A wisdom that looks commonplace and normal -[3852.04 --> 3854.56] that maybe even sounds good and right -[3854.56 --> 3858.24] ends up ultimately being inadequate or incomplete. -[3858.24 --> 3862.86] And I really think that in some ways, -[3863.70 --> 3865.92] the early Christians, in some ways James, -[3866.74 --> 3868.60] when it comes to this particular distinction, -[3869.14 --> 3870.26] that they had it easier -[3870.26 --> 3872.76] because the contrast was just so obvious. -[3873.16 --> 3874.66] Now, of course, in a number of ways, -[3874.84 --> 3876.42] the early Christians had it way more difficult -[3876.42 --> 3877.38] than we have ever had, -[3877.46 --> 3879.10] and so let's not make that parallel too far. -[3879.88 --> 3881.34] But the wisdom of heaven -[3881.34 --> 3883.60] that James is talking about for Christians -[3883.60 --> 3888.16] is an obvious contrast to the wisdom of Rome, right? -[3888.16 --> 3889.46] That the culture of the Bible -[3889.46 --> 3891.36] was alien to the Roman Empire, -[3891.62 --> 3893.40] but in our day, right, -[3893.48 --> 3896.64] because we have 2,000 years or so of Christian history -[3896.64 --> 3898.12] that have shaped language -[3898.12 --> 3900.28] and has shaped the presumption -[3900.28 --> 3902.20] of certain virtues or values, -[3902.32 --> 3904.14] and now we live in a time -[3904.14 --> 3907.38] where the basic identity of being Christian -[3907.38 --> 3908.42] might be rejected, -[3908.42 --> 3912.26] but the basic ideas about being human -[3912.26 --> 3913.90] are still held onto. -[3915.26 --> 3915.74] Right? -[3915.78 --> 3917.50] You can take these things for granted -[3917.50 --> 3920.12] without requiring them to actually be Christian -[3920.12 --> 3922.10] or even theistic, requiring a God. -[3923.18 --> 3925.18] And so on this side of things, -[3925.98 --> 3929.60] I think this is actually the more insidious side -[3929.60 --> 3933.10] because Christian culture -[3933.10 --> 3937.54] has been so closely wedded to Western culture -[3937.54 --> 3938.72] for so long -[3938.72 --> 3940.62] that we end up really struggling -[3940.62 --> 3941.58] to see the difference. -[3943.36 --> 3944.32] Now let me be clear. -[3944.90 --> 3947.72] I'm not talking about not-yet-Christians -[3947.72 --> 3949.20] who struggle to see the difference. -[3950.02 --> 3950.24] Right? -[3950.28 --> 3952.98] It is Christians who struggle to see the difference. -[3953.68 --> 3953.80] Right? -[3953.82 --> 3955.82] The problem is that we struggle -[3955.82 --> 3958.98] as Christians to live the difference. -[3959.90 --> 3961.84] Let me give you an example of this. -[3962.52 --> 3963.88] If you are a church member, -[3964.38 --> 3965.54] or if you're a member of the church, -[3965.76 --> 3967.08] and in fact, I could just stop right there. -[3968.24 --> 3968.42] Right? -[3968.42 --> 3969.50] Because that word member, -[3970.12 --> 3973.00] right, the idea of being a member in a church -[3973.00 --> 3974.92] is a declining reality in our world. -[3975.22 --> 3977.40] And I know that some of you watching right now -[3977.40 --> 3980.02] have consciously made the decision -[3980.02 --> 3981.28] or refused the decision -[3981.28 --> 3983.84] to become a member of our church, -[3983.90 --> 3985.78] to enter into what I prefer to call -[3985.78 --> 3987.48] covenant relationship to the church body. -[3988.00 --> 3990.72] But why is it normal in our society? -[3991.28 --> 3993.36] Why do we just accept that that's the way it is? -[3993.72 --> 3994.56] And we move on. -[3994.56 --> 3997.22] But let's keep going. -[3997.86 --> 3999.68] If you attend a church regularly, -[3999.98 --> 4001.68] see, I'm not using the language of member anymore. -[4001.96 --> 4003.44] If you attend the church regularly, -[4003.72 --> 4006.82] but then that church, for whatever reason, right, -[4006.84 --> 4007.62] you fill in the gap, -[4007.70 --> 4008.64] that church stops, -[4008.72 --> 4009.76] and here's the phrase we always hear, -[4010.02 --> 4011.02] meeting my needs. -[4012.02 --> 4012.66] What do you do? -[4012.66 --> 4015.76] You go shopping for another one. -[4017.12 --> 4017.34] Right? -[4017.38 --> 4018.74] Or in the worst case scenario, -[4018.90 --> 4019.98] you stop going altogether. -[4020.82 --> 4022.08] And that's just normal. -[4023.08 --> 4023.18] Right? -[4023.18 --> 4024.96] The language of church shopping -[4024.96 --> 4027.14] is just part of our parlance today. -[4027.36 --> 4028.98] It's the water we swim in, -[4029.36 --> 4031.28] but it really isn't biblical. -[4032.68 --> 4032.80] Right? -[4032.82 --> 4034.48] That's not the wisdom of heaven. -[4034.56 --> 4036.40] That's another wisdom. -[4036.40 --> 4038.60] And yet, as Christians, -[4039.06 --> 4041.58] we live by it without any serious reflection. -[4042.84 --> 4042.96] Right? -[4043.00 --> 4043.42] On and on, -[4043.48 --> 4045.92] these sorts of contrasts can go. -[4046.66 --> 4049.20] If we have the spiritual sense to discern it, -[4049.60 --> 4050.56] we can see it. -[4051.12 --> 4051.26] Right? -[4051.32 --> 4053.12] And the world will tell us -[4053.12 --> 4055.04] to find your bliss. -[4055.70 --> 4055.86] Right? -[4055.90 --> 4057.16] To do what you love. -[4057.26 --> 4058.58] To follow your joy. -[4058.58 --> 4061.04] The Bible says -[4061.04 --> 4062.86] it's about a long obedience -[4062.86 --> 4064.68] in the same direction. -[4065.40 --> 4066.70] The Bible says that in this world, -[4066.86 --> 4067.66] you will have trouble, -[4067.78 --> 4068.94] that life will be hard, -[4069.02 --> 4070.42] and it will be full of suffering. -[4070.82 --> 4072.46] But the reward is great. -[4072.84 --> 4074.28] The joy of the glory of God -[4074.28 --> 4076.02] and the new Jerusalem come down -[4076.02 --> 4077.46] is better than anything -[4077.46 --> 4078.78] that this world has to offer. -[4080.80 --> 4081.88] And yet, how many of us -[4081.88 --> 4084.32] really do want to follow our bliss? -[4084.98 --> 4085.58] Whatever that means. -[4086.40 --> 4086.52] Right? -[4086.54 --> 4087.88] In a world that tells us -[4087.88 --> 4089.54] to look out for number one, -[4089.66 --> 4091.20] to pull up yourself -[4091.20 --> 4092.48] by your bootstraps, -[4092.54 --> 4094.10] that if you don't look out for you, -[4094.22 --> 4095.92] no one will look out for you. -[4096.00 --> 4097.50] The Bible comes along and says, -[4097.78 --> 4099.02] love your neighbor as yourself. -[4099.48 --> 4100.36] Love your enemy. -[4101.30 --> 4101.46] Right? -[4101.50 --> 4102.50] The Bible comes along and says, -[4102.72 --> 4103.64] don't think of yourself -[4103.64 --> 4105.12] more highly than you ought, -[4105.24 --> 4106.52] but rather, in humility, -[4106.68 --> 4108.88] value others above yourselves. -[4108.92 --> 4110.42] Not looking out to your own interests, -[4110.52 --> 4111.24] but each of you -[4111.24 --> 4113.56] to the interests of others. -[4113.56 --> 4118.30] How you live in the world -[4118.30 --> 4120.12] will be determined -[4120.12 --> 4122.80] by the wisdom about the world -[4122.80 --> 4125.92] you hold as true. -[4127.70 --> 4129.36] You have the wisdom of heaven -[4129.36 --> 4133.34] or you have the wisdom of this world. -[4134.34 --> 4135.46] You can decide. -[4136.24 --> 4138.16] But there is a war going on -[4138.16 --> 4139.66] for your mind. -[4139.66 --> 4141.06] There is a war going on -[4141.06 --> 4142.24] for how you believe, -[4142.44 --> 4143.38] behave, and belong. -[4144.52 --> 4145.22] This is it. -[4146.78 --> 4147.62] Let me tell you, -[4147.64 --> 4148.92] and I'll leave it here -[4148.92 --> 4150.50] with this last idea. -[4151.66 --> 4152.30] The beauty, -[4152.68 --> 4155.70] the beauty of the wisdom of heaven -[4155.70 --> 4157.28] is precisely -[4157.28 --> 4160.32] that it doesn't stay in heaven. -[4161.64 --> 4162.76] I love this line -[4162.76 --> 4165.28] from 1 Corinthians chapter 1, -[4165.36 --> 4166.26] and it's going to be on the screen, -[4166.34 --> 4166.76] but if you want, -[4166.82 --> 4167.52] you can turn to it. -[4167.52 --> 4168.84] 1 Corinthians chapter 1. -[4170.26 --> 4171.64] I'll start at verse 20. -[4173.42 --> 4174.98] Paul is writing to this church -[4174.98 --> 4175.60] who is known -[4175.60 --> 4177.32] for its wisdom -[4177.32 --> 4178.96] and its philosophical education, -[4179.22 --> 4180.10] to a culture that was -[4180.10 --> 4182.04] prizing those sorts of things, -[4182.08 --> 4182.78] and he says, -[4183.34 --> 4184.80] Where is the wise person? -[4185.24 --> 4186.58] Where is the teacher of the law? -[4186.70 --> 4188.84] Where is the philosopher of this age? -[4189.18 --> 4190.76] Has not God made foolish -[4190.76 --> 4192.32] the wisdom of the world? -[4192.62 --> 4194.72] For since in the wisdom of God, -[4194.82 --> 4196.42] the world through its wisdom -[4196.42 --> 4197.36] did not know him, -[4197.36 --> 4198.68] God was pleased -[4198.68 --> 4199.92] through the foolishness -[4199.92 --> 4200.92] of what was preached -[4200.92 --> 4202.68] to save those who believed. -[4202.68 --> 4204.00] Jews demanded signs, -[4204.14 --> 4205.20] and Greeks looked for wisdom, -[4205.48 --> 4207.64] but we preach Christ crucified, -[4207.96 --> 4209.32] a stumbling block to the Jews -[4209.32 --> 4210.86] and foolishness to the Gentiles, -[4210.96 --> 4213.74] but to those whom God has called, -[4213.84 --> 4215.26] both Jews and Greeks, -[4215.66 --> 4217.38] Christ, the power of God, -[4217.44 --> 4217.96] and hear it, -[4218.40 --> 4218.82] Christ, -[4219.64 --> 4220.46] the wisdom -[4220.46 --> 4222.18] of God. -[4224.02 --> 4225.02] See, the great, -[4225.34 --> 4226.86] unique, -[4227.82 --> 4229.54] gospel reality -[4229.54 --> 4231.40] that is ours as Christians -[4231.40 --> 4232.82] is that the wisdom of heaven -[4232.82 --> 4234.86] did not stay in heaven, -[4235.00 --> 4236.38] but that the wisdom of God -[4236.38 --> 4237.64] took on flesh -[4237.64 --> 4238.28] and came -[4238.28 --> 4241.46] and made his dwelling among us, -[4241.62 --> 4242.96] and that in Jesus Christ -[4242.96 --> 4244.18] we have seen the glory -[4244.18 --> 4245.16] of the one and only come -[4245.16 --> 4245.68] from the Father, -[4245.78 --> 4247.60] full of truth and grace. -[4247.60 --> 4249.22] In Jesus Christ, -[4249.32 --> 4250.52] we have seen the wisdom -[4250.52 --> 4253.08] of God made flesh. -[4254.04 --> 4255.52] Christ is the wisdom -[4255.52 --> 4256.44] of God, -[4256.54 --> 4257.62] and the wisdom of God -[4257.62 --> 4259.96] came down to us. -[4261.24 --> 4263.14] Jesus lived the life -[4263.14 --> 4264.78] we should have lived -[4264.78 --> 4265.84] and died the death -[4265.84 --> 4267.12] that we deserve, -[4268.18 --> 4268.78] and that Jesus, -[4269.46 --> 4271.58] shattering all expectations -[4271.58 --> 4273.96] of reality three days later, -[4273.96 --> 4276.28] was raised from the dead, -[4276.50 --> 4277.86] and now has victory -[4277.86 --> 4279.04] over sin and death, -[4279.24 --> 4280.36] now has proven -[4280.36 --> 4281.84] that the foolishness -[4281.84 --> 4283.60] of God -[4283.60 --> 4284.66] is greater -[4284.66 --> 4286.00] than the wisdom -[4286.00 --> 4288.14] of man. -[4288.94 --> 4289.78] The gospel -[4289.78 --> 4291.64] of Jesus Christ, -[4291.74 --> 4292.78] the truth of Jesus -[4292.78 --> 4293.66] and the truths -[4293.66 --> 4294.30] of Jesus -[4294.30 --> 4295.66] are the wisdom -[4295.66 --> 4296.96] by which we can -[4296.96 --> 4297.58] finally, -[4298.44 --> 4298.88] ultimately, -[4299.66 --> 4300.14] only, -[4301.02 --> 4302.10] make sense of the world. -[4302.10 --> 4304.48] that's wisdom. -[4305.32 --> 4305.94] And that -[4305.94 --> 4308.06] is what I would -[4308.06 --> 4308.96] encourage you -[4308.96 --> 4311.48] to drink deeply of. -[4311.98 --> 4312.76] Drink deeply -[4312.76 --> 4313.86] the wisdom -[4313.86 --> 4315.08] of God -[4315.08 --> 4316.38] in Jesus Christ. -[4317.42 --> 4317.74] Reap -[4317.74 --> 4318.82] the blessing -[4318.82 --> 4319.76] of life -[4319.76 --> 4321.14] lived in. -[4321.50 --> 4321.88] Amen. -[4321.88 --> 4322.02] Amen. -[4327.32 --> 4328.30] Let's pray together. -[4332.10 --> 4333.62] Lord Jesus, -[4334.12 --> 4336.70] you are -[4336.70 --> 4338.62] our wisdom. -[4339.98 --> 4341.08] Lord Jesus, -[4341.72 --> 4343.60] in your word, -[4344.12 --> 4345.26] reveal truth -[4345.26 --> 4346.80] about the world. -[4347.66 --> 4349.36] In our lives, -[4350.04 --> 4351.00] may we live -[4351.00 --> 4351.80] in accordance -[4351.80 --> 4354.26] with that truth. -[4355.56 --> 4356.40] As we enter -[4356.40 --> 4357.20] and live -[4357.20 --> 4357.76] in the midst -[4357.76 --> 4359.46] of this wisdom war -[4359.46 --> 4360.80] for our being -[4360.80 --> 4361.58] in the world, -[4362.50 --> 4363.20] we pray, -[4363.56 --> 4364.64] reveal yourself -[4364.64 --> 4365.82] to us. -[4365.94 --> 4366.84] Transform how we -[4366.84 --> 4368.04] behave and believe -[4368.04 --> 4368.82] and belong -[4368.82 --> 4369.94] so that we -[4369.94 --> 4370.90] can live -[4370.90 --> 4371.66] the wisdom -[4371.66 --> 4373.10] of heaven. -[4373.94 --> 4374.68] Christ alone, -[4374.80 --> 4375.18] we pray. -[4375.90 --> 4376.36] Amen. -[4376.36 --> 4376.50] Amen. -[4376.50 --> 4376.52] Amen. -[4376.52 --> 4376.54] Amen. -[4376.54 --> 4376.56] Amen. -[4376.56 --> 4376.58] Amen. -[4376.58 --> 4378.58] Amen. -[4378.58 --> 4380.52] Amen. -[4380.52 --> 4380.58] Amen. -[4380.58 --> 4380.62] Amen. -[4380.62 --> 4382.52] Amen. -[4382.52 --> 4382.58] Amen. -[4382.58 --> 4384.58] Amen. -[4384.58 --> 4384.64] Amen. -[4384.64 --> 4386.58] Amen. -[4386.58 --> 4386.64] Amen. -[4386.64 --> 4386.70] Amen. -[4386.70 --> 4386.74] Amen. -[4386.74 --> 4386.78] Amen. -[4386.78 --> 4388.70] Amen. -[4388.70 --> 4388.78] Amen. -[4389.46 --> 4406.24] In Christ alone -[4406.24 --> 4409.86] my hope is found, -[4410.30 --> 4412.00] He is my light, -[4412.10 --> 4412.96] my strength, -[4414.20 --> 4415.66] my song. -[4416.42 --> 4418.72] This cornerstone -[4418.72 --> 4422.10] This solid ground -[4422.10 --> 4427.56] Firm through the fiercest drought and storm -[4427.56 --> 4433.56] What heights above, what depths of peace -[4433.56 --> 4439.40] When fears are stilled, when strivings cease -[4439.40 --> 4445.84] My comforter, my all in all -[4445.84 --> 4451.84] Here is the love of Christ I stand -[4451.84 --> 4468.78] In Christ alone, who took on flesh -[4468.78 --> 4474.06] Flawless of God in helpless pain -[4474.06 --> 4479.16] This gift of love and righteousness -[4479.16 --> 4485.06] Scorned by the ones He came to save -[4485.74 --> 4491.06] Till on that cross as Jesus died -[4491.06 --> 4497.06] The wrath of God was satisfied -[4497.06 --> 4503.06] For every sin on Him was laid -[4503.06 --> 4509.06] Here in the death of Christ I lay -[4509.06 --> 4527.06] There in the ground His body lay -[4527.06 --> 4533.06] Light of the world by darkness slain -[4533.06 --> 4538.06] Then bursting forth in glorious day -[4538.06 --> 4544.06] Up from the grave He rose again -[4544.06 --> 4549.06] And as He stands in victory -[4549.06 --> 4555.06] Sin's curse has lost its grip on me -[4555.06 --> 4561.06] For I am His and He is mine -[4561.06 --> 4568.06] Bought with the precious blood of Christ -[4568.06 --> 4585.06] No guilt in life, no fear in death -[4585.06 --> 4590.06] This is the power of Christ in me -[4590.06 --> 4597.06] From life's first cry to final breath -[4597.06 --> 4601.06] Jesus commands my destiny -[4601.06 --> 4602.06] No power of hell, no scheme of man -[4602.06 --> 4604.06] No power of hell, no scheme of man -[4604.06 --> 4608.06] No power of hell, no scheme of man -[4608.06 --> 4610.06] Can ever pluck me from His hand -[4610.06 --> 4615.06] Can ever pluck me from His hand -[4615.06 --> 4619.06] Till He returns, no sense of man -[4619.06 --> 4622.06] Can ever pluck me from His hand -[4622.06 --> 4623.06] Till He returns, or calls me home -[4623.06 --> 4626.06] Here in the power of Christ I'll stand -[4626.06 --> 4629.06] No power of hell, no scheme of man -[4629.06 --> 4630.06] Can ever pluck me from His hand -[4630.06 --> 4632.06] No scheme of man -[4632.06 --> 4636.06] Can ever pluck me from His hand -[4636.06 --> 4642.06] Till He returns, or calls me home -[4642.06 --> 4649.06] Here in the power of Christ I'll stand -[4649.06 --> 4666.06] As you go this week, go in the wisdom of our God -[4666.06 --> 4672.06] Who goes with us, receive His blessing for that journey -[4672.06 --> 4678.06] Before I give the blessing to whomever it was that came and dropped off a treat tag -[4678.06 --> 4681.06] Here during our worship service, thank you so much -[4681.06 --> 4686.06] The fact that the treat tag also included a stick for Hank is amazing -[4687.06 --> 4689.06] Go this week with God -[4689.06 --> 4692.06] May God go before you to lead you -[4692.06 --> 4695.06] May God go behind you to guard you -[4695.06 --> 4697.06] May God go beneath you to support you -[4697.06 --> 4700.06] May God go beside you to befriend you -[4700.06 --> 4702.06] Do not be afraid -[4702.06 --> 4705.06] Let the blessing of God come upon you today -[4705.06 --> 4707.06] Do not be afraid -[4707.06 --> 4709.06] Go in peace -[4709.06 --> 4712.06] In the wisdom of God -[4712.06 --> 4715.06] To love and serve the Lord -[4715.06 --> 4716.06] Amen -[4716.06 --> 4717.06] Amen -[4717.06 --> 4728.06] I cast my mind to Calvary -[4728.06 --> 4738.06] Where Jesus bled and died for me -[4738.06 --> 4740.06] I see His wounds -[4740.06 --> 4742.06] I see His wounds -[4742.06 --> 4746.06] His hands His feet -[4746.06 --> 4754.06] My Savior of that cursed tree -[4754.06 --> 4766.06] His body bound and drenched in tears -[4766.06 --> 4768.06] They laid Him down in Joseph's tomb -[4768.06 --> 4772.06] They laid Him down in Joseph's tomb -[4772.06 --> 4782.06] The entrance sealed by heavy stone -[4782.06 --> 4788.06] Messiah still and all alone -[4788.06 --> 4790.06] And all alone -[4790.06 --> 4792.06] Oh, praise the name of the Lord our God -[4792.06 --> 4795.06] Oh, praise His name -[4795.06 --> 4799.06] Oh, praise His name -[4799.06 --> 4801.06] Of the Lord our God -[4801.06 --> 4803.06] Oh, praise His name -[4803.06 --> 4805.06] Oh, praise His name -[4805.06 --> 4807.06] Oh, praise His name -[4807.06 --> 4810.06] Oh, praise His name -[4810.06 --> 4811.06] Oh, praise His name -[4811.06 --> 4813.06] Oh, praise His name -[4813.06 --> 4829.06] For endless days we will sing your praise, O Lord, O Lord our God. -[4829.06 --> 4846.84] And on the third, at break of dawn, the Son of Heaven rose again. -[4846.84 --> 4854.62] O trampled death, where is your sting? -[4854.62 --> 4863.10] The angels roar for Christ the King. -[4865.50 --> 4874.40] O praise the name of the Lord our God. -[4874.40 --> 4881.40] O praise His name forevermore. -[4882.18 --> 4895.28] For endless days we will sing your praise, O Lord, O Lord our God. -[4895.28 --> 4902.28] O praise His name forever. -[4902.28 --> 4916.42] In robes of white, the blazing sun shall pierce the night. -[4916.42 --> 4935.40] And I will rise among the saints, My gaze transfixed on Jesus' face. -[4935.40 --> 4950.40] O praise His name forever. -[4950.40 --> 4957.40] O praise His name forever. -[4957.40 --> 4964.40] O praise His name forevermore. -[4964.40 --> 4969.40] O praise His name forevermore. -[4969.40 --> 4976.40] O praise His name forevermore. -[4976.40 --> 4978.40] O praise His name forevermore. -[4978.40 --> 4982.40] O praise His name forevermore. -[4982.40 --> 4994.78] O praise His name forevermore. -[4994.78 --> 4996.24] O praise His name forevermore. -[4996.24 --> 5001.38] O praise His name forevermore. -[5001.38 --> 5008.96] Of the Lord our God, O praise His name. -[5011.46 --> 5019.92] Forevermore, for endless days, we will sing Your praise. -[5019.92 --> 5025.92] O Lord, O Lord our God. -[5025.92 --> 5032.82] O Lord, O Lord our God. -[5034.68 --> 5040.80] O Lord, O Lord our God. -[5055.92 --> 5070.68] O Lord, O Lord our God. -[5070.68 --> 5083.06] Holy Spirit, fall on us. -[5083.06 --> 5093.54] Burn like a fire. -[5094.60 --> 5101.12] Living flame of love. -[5101.12 --> 5121.16] Come, Holy Spirit. -[5121.16 --> 5151.14] Come, Holy Spirit. -[5151.14 --> 5153.14] Come, Holy Spirit. -[5153.14 --> 5155.02] Come, Holy Spirit. -[5155.02 --> 5156.72] Come, Holy Spirit. -[5158.30 --> 5162.66] Show us Your glory. -[5162.66 --> 5171.12] God, we are on our knees. -[5171.12 --> 5180.88] Crying forever to come to earth -[5180.88 --> 5194.46] Come Holy Spirit -[5194.46 --> 5203.10] You live forever -[5203.10 --> 5205.10] Like a fire -[5205.10 --> 5214.46] Like a fire -[5214.46 --> 5223.10] Living forever -[5224.46 --> 5228.84] Father God, your will be done -[5228.84 --> 5233.44] Christ in us, your kingdom come -[5233.44 --> 5238.16] Spirit lead us now as one -[5238.16 --> 5242.46] Set your church on fire again -[5242.46 --> 5243.14] Sing that with us -[5243.14 --> 5247.38] Father God, your will be done -[5247.38 --> 5251.64] Christ in us, your kingdom come -[5251.64 --> 5256.58] Spirit lead us now as one -[5256.58 --> 5260.62] Set your church on fire again -[5260.62 --> 5265.42] Father God, your will be done -[5265.42 --> 5270.02] Christ in us, your kingdom come -[5270.02 --> 5274.62] Spirit lead us now as one -[5274.62 --> 5283.60] Set your church on fire again -[5283.60 --> 5286.00] Come Holy Spirit -[5286.00 --> 5289.00] Come Holy Spirit -[5289.00 --> 5293.00] Come Holy Spirit -[5293.00 --> 5293.60] Set your church on fire again -[5293.60 --> 5295.60] Come Holy Spirit -[5295.60 --> 5304.58] Come Holy Spirit -[5304.58 --> 5307.58] Come Holy Spirit -[5307.58 --> 5314.58] Come Holy Spirit -[5314.58 --> 5318.56] He reigns now as one -[5318.56 --> 5319.52] Am Holy Spirit -[5319.52 --> 5320.14] Ele constantly -[5320.14 --> 5332.96] Is y'all -[5332.96 --> 5334.14] Jesus definitely -[5334.14 --> 5336.12] He reigns now as one -[5336.12 --> 5339.56] Yes, we're not -[5339.56 --> 5350.30] Living flame, living flame of love. -[5350.30 --> 5352.94] Sing our living flame. -[5352.94 --> 5354.94] Living flame. -[5364.46 --> 5368.54] Living flame of love. -[5369.56 --> 5379.56] Yes, you are the living flame of love. -[5379.56 --> 5386.52] Living flame of love. -[5386.52 --> 5392.58] Living flame of love. diff --git a/Sunday Worship Service - April 18 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship Service - April 18 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 916944d7567e926f0599938cb361a9261a2b17d2..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship Service - April 18 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,96 +0,0 @@ -• Death's power is broken -• God is a living hope -• Faithfulness as a fortress -• Strength and power in God's name -• Believing in God despite fear and doubt -• Praise and worship of God's greatness -• Dependence on God in times of struggle and uncertainty -• Fixing eyes on God for guidance and peace -• Worship service begins with singing and prayer -• Introduction by Kevin, youth pastor, in Pastor Chris's absence -• Announcements: - + Seeking nominations for elders and deacons - + Upcoming Zoom coffee after church - + Treat tag game continues online -• Scripture reading from Revelation 1 -• Opening song from Psalm 66 -• Praise and worship of God -• Acknowledgment of God's majesty and power -• Confession of sin and seeking forgiveness -• Recognition of salvation through grace -• Discussion of memory work from John 3:16 -• Introduction to a story and lesson for Kids' Corner -• Discussion of a quiz-style segment with the host and audience -• Review of biblical history, including Naomi's family leaving Bethlehem due to famine -• Canadian hockey team trivia (Canucks winning the Stanley Cup) -• History of high heels fashion origins -• Stories from the Bible, including Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego being thrown into a fiery furnace -• Trivia question about the human brain's composition -• The brain is not made of water or brains -• The average human brain weighs 11 pounds -• Camels have three eyelids, not two -• There are 66 books in the Bible (39 Old Testament and 27 New Testament) -• Some cats are allergic to humans -• Story about Doubting Thomas from the book of John 20, who doubted Jesus' resurrection until he saw Jesus' wounds -• Doubt in faith and seeing God/Jesus in daily life -• Examples of seeing God's presence: creation, miracles, church events -• Sharing stories of Jesus' love and presence with others -• Mission organization mentioned (Pharmacular) -• Upcoming offering for GEMS ministry -• Congregational prayer to celebrate new life, remember loved ones passed on, and celebrate birthdays -• Thanking God for life and blessings -• Praying for Ed Judeo ministry and local schools -• Praying for church members and families (new babies, health issues, grief) -• Praying for those dealing with COVID-19 and isolation -• Praying for the shut-in and elderly members -• Praying for healing and restoration of relationships -• Praying for church leadership and wisdom in leading the congregation -• Praying for community and connection among church members -• Celebrating Pastor Chris's birthday -• Asking listeners to send him a flood of congratulations and happy birthday messages on their phones -• Telling birthday jokes -• Announcing the next topic: James 4:1-12 from the Bible -• Explaining that this passage has a different tone than previous ones in the sermon series, shifting from earthly wisdom to spiritual wisdom -• Reading and discussing the passage, focusing on topics such as desires, pride, humility, and judging others -• Heavenly wisdom allows Christians to become peacemakers, but the text shifts to addressing quarrels and fights among Christians. -• James says that desires are the cause of quarrels and fights, specifically selfish desires (hedone) that lead to hedonism. -• James criticizes Christians for killing and coveting literally and figuratively due to their desires, and praying selfishly. -• The text shifts from "brothers and sisters" to "adulterous people", indicating a change in tone and language. -• Christians are adulterous when they commit spiritual adultery by becoming friends with the world, which means being enemies of God. -• Friendship with the world is motivated by sinful desires of the heart that seek earthly pleasure. -• Desire for comfort and pleasure -• Prioritizing own needs over others -• Characteristics of the seven deadly sins in modern times -• Vanity: comparison and seeking validation through looks and social media -• Greed: feeling independent and self-sufficient, not needing God's provision -• Gluttony: overindulgence in food or other substances to fulfill desires -• Lust: desire for power, position, and control -• Wrath: anger and aggression that solves nothing and harms oneself -• Envy: placing one's own desires first and seeking to be better than others -• Sloth: laziness and lack of motivation -• The definition of sloth as willfully deciding not to do something of value -• Pursuing selfish pleasures and desires in life -• Cheating on God by prioritizing earthly things over spiritual ones -• The cure for hedonism is humility -• Submitting to God, resisting the devil, and purifying oneself through confession and repentance -• The importance of acknowledging and mourning sin, rather than rejoicing in it -• The example of Jesus Christ's humility and sacrifice on the cross -• Christ's humility is key to defeating sin -• Humility means thinking of oneself less, not thinking less of oneself -• Being humble allows us to bring our desires to Christ and trust in his mercy and grace -• James' book emphasizes the importance of being a doer of the word, not just a hearer -• Slander and gossip are signs of failure to live out God's law -• Humility is essential for living a life that reflects God's kingdom on earth -• Praying for conviction and strength to resist worldly temptations -• Asking for humility to confess and bring sin to God -• Requesting guidance and courage to live with others in mind -• Expressing gratitude for Jesus' sacrifice and resurrection -• Praying for families, children, and relationships -• Seeking comfort, hope, and peace in times of sorrow and pain -• Inviting church members to serve the community through elder and deacon roles -• Encouraging acts of kindness and service towards others -• Worship and praise to God -• Christ as the hope in life and death -• The peace and love of God that conquers fear -• The power of prayer and crying out for help -• The glory and mercy of God that reigns victorious \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship Service - April 18 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship Service - April 18 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 360ee76567cc07b1e55b6dc8b31e22a05e2a95cc..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship Service - April 18 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1170 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 5.00] Then came the morning that sealed the promise -[5.00 --> 11.28] Your buried body began to breathe -[11.28 --> 18.50] Out of the silence the roaring lion -[18.50 --> 24.90] Declared the grave has no claim on me -[24.90 --> 31.70] Then came the morning that sealed the promise -[31.70 --> 38.40] Your buried body began to breathe -[38.40 --> 45.16] Out of the silence the roaring lion -[45.16 --> 51.72] Declared the grave has no claim on me -[51.72 --> 57.52] Jesus, yours is the victory -[57.52 --> 65.72] Oh, hallelujah -[65.72 --> 69.50] Praise the one who set me free -[69.50 --> 71.52] Hallelujah -[71.52 --> 76.16] Deadless ross, it's crippled me -[76.16 --> 79.58] You have broken every chain -[79.58 --> 82.86] This now may say your name -[82.86 --> 88.16] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[88.16 --> 91.16] Hallelujah -[91.16 --> 96.16] Praise the one who set me free -[96.96 --> 98.16] Hallelujah -[98.16 --> 102.16] Death has lost, it's crippled me -[102.16 --> 105.58] You have broken every chain -[105.58 --> 108.96] This now may say your name -[108.96 --> 114.16] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[114.16 --> 120.16] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[120.16 --> 124.16] Oh God, you are my living hope -[124.16 --> 128.16] Oh God, you are my living hope -[129.16 --> 130.26] Oh God, I focus on your life -[130.26 --> 133.12] Oh God, you are my living hope -[133.12 --> 136.38] Oh God, you are my living hope -[136.38 --> 138.44] Oh Yeap, you are my living hope -[138.44 --> 142.68] Oh God, you are my living hope -[142.68 --> 143.38] Oh God, you are your living hope -[143.38 --> 145.96] Oh God, you are your living hope -[145.96 --> 148.04] Oh God, you are my living hope -[148.04 --> 170.72] There is no fear, cause I believe There is no doubt, cause I have seen -[170.72 --> 179.22] Your faithfulness, my fortress, over and over -[179.22 --> 187.68] I have a hope, found in Your name -[187.68 --> 193.08] I have a strength, found in Your grace -[193.08 --> 201.58] Your faithfulness, my fortress, over and over -[201.58 --> 209.78] Make way through the water, walk me through the fire -[209.78 --> 215.66] Do what you are famous for, what you are famous for -[215.66 --> 220.88] Shut the mouths of lions, bring dry wounds to life -[220.88 --> 227.02] Do what you are famous for, what you are famous for -[227.02 --> 231.82] I believe in You -[231.82 --> 237.60] God, I believe in You -[237.60 --> 243.64] Release Your love inside of me -[243.64 --> 248.86] Unleash Your power for all to see -[248.86 --> 254.44] Spirit, come and fall on us -[254.44 --> 257.46] Over and over -[257.46 --> 265.58] Make way through the water, walk me through the fire -[265.58 --> 271.48] Do what you are famous for, what you are famous for -[271.48 --> 277.06] Shut the mouths of lions, bring dry wounds to life -[277.06 --> 282.96] Do what you are famous for, what you are famous for -[282.96 --> 288.06] God of exceedingly, God of abundantly -[288.06 --> 294.42] More than we ask or think, Lord You will never fail -[294.42 --> 299.00] Your name is powerful, Your name is powerful, Your name is powerful, Your word's unstoppable -[299.00 --> 302.00] Your word's unstoppable, all things are possible -[302.00 --> 304.00] In You -[304.00 --> 310.00] God of exceedingly, God of abundantly -[310.00 --> 316.74] God of abundantly, more than we ask or think, Lord You will never fail -[316.74 --> 325.32] Your name is powerful, Your name is powerful, Your word's unstoppable, all things are possible -[325.32 --> 326.32] In You -[326.32 --> 331.90] Make way through the water, walk me through the fire -[331.90 --> 337.48] Do what you are famous for, what you are famous for -[337.48 --> 338.48] What you are famous for -[338.48 --> 342.48] Shut the mouths of lions, bring dry wounds to life -[342.48 --> 348.48] And do what you are famous for, what you are famous for -[348.48 --> 349.48] I believe in You -[349.48 --> 350.48] I believe in You -[350.48 --> 351.48] I believe in You -[351.48 --> 355.48] I believe in You -[355.48 --> 367.06] There is no fear, cause I believe -[367.06 --> 375.48] There is no doubt, cause I have seen Your faithfulness -[375.48 --> 378.80] In You -[378.92 --> 379.74] Free -[379.74 --> 380.84] Your -[380.84 --> 381.34] Your -[381.34 --> 382.34] With -[382.34 --> 384.22] Your -[384.22 --> 385.54] You -[385.54 --> 387.12] Your -[387.12 --> 388.12] Voices -[388.12 --> 390.34] You -[390.34 --> 391.88] Love -[391.88 --> 395.18] Love -[395.18 --> 399.18] Love -[399.18 --> 401.34] Love -[401.34 --> 403.20] Love -[404.16 --> 405.40] Love -[405.40 --> 405.44] Love -[405.44 --> 418.00] Every breath it is a gift, every moment is a treasure -[418.00 --> 430.80] All my past and my regrets, my present and my future -[435.44 --> 443.68] Every table is a feast, every heartbeat is an altar -[443.68 --> 456.42] Every step a mystery, I'm walking with the author -[456.42 --> 468.08] So I fix my eyes upon you, I fix my eyes upon you -[468.08 --> 480.46] So I fix my eyes upon you, I fix my eyes -[480.46 --> 485.20] Oh praise, oh praise -[485.20 --> 493.18] Heaven bent to meet us, Father, Son and Spirit -[493.18 --> 497.46] Oh praise, oh praise -[497.98 --> 507.46] God and men together, one with us forevermore -[507.46 --> 520.90] In famine we will eat, in drought we'll see a downpour -[520.90 --> 525.58] Yes we will -[525.58 --> 533.46] So let all our fighting cease, the Prince our peace has conquered -[533.46 --> 545.34] So I fix my eyes upon you, I fix my eyes upon you -[545.34 --> 554.12] I fix my eyes upon you, I fix my eyes -[554.12 --> 558.82] Oh praise, oh praise -[558.82 --> 566.78] Heaven bent to meet us, Father, Son and Spirit -[566.78 --> 571.64] Oh praise, oh praise -[571.64 --> 581.12] God and men together, one with us forevermore -[581.12 --> 582.86] Oh forevermore -[582.86 --> 586.78] Oh forevermore -[586.78 --> 588.78] Forevermore -[588.78 --> 596.36] Why should my heart go in me? -[596.78 --> 599.94] Don't be so downcast on my soul -[599.94 --> 602.74] You are in every moment -[602.74 --> 606.00] You are my greatest miracle -[606.00 --> 609.66] Why should my heart go weary? -[609.66 --> 612.66] Don't be so downcast on my soul -[612.66 --> 615.66] You are in every moment -[615.66 --> 618.66] You are my greatest miracle -[618.66 --> 621.74] Why should my heart go weary? -[621.74 --> 625.50] Don't be so downcast on my soul -[625.50 --> 628.24] You are in every moment -[628.24 --> 631.58] You are my greatest miracle -[631.58 --> 635.24] Why should my heart go weary? -[635.24 --> 637.24] Don't be so downcast on my soul -[637.24 --> 641.64] Good morning church and welcome to worship this morning -[641.64 --> 645.18] It is great that we are able to gather together through technology -[645.18 --> 648.72] as the body of Christ and worship here today -[648.72 --> 651.50] For those of you who do not know me, my name is Kevin -[651.50 --> 652.76] I'm the youth pastor here -[652.76 --> 658.28] and it is a joy to be here on this beautiful, sunny, it seems like a summer day -[658.28 --> 660.24] even though we're just sort of in the middle of April -[660.24 --> 662.54] You may be wondering where Pastor Chris is -[662.54 --> 663.96] He's hanging out with his family today -[663.96 --> 665.12] We'll hear more about that later -[665.12 --> 666.28] So you're stuck with me today -[666.28 --> 669.00] I'm not going to apologize because that's great, isn't it? -[669.66 --> 672.00] All right, I've got a couple of announcements before we begin -[672.00 --> 675.92] The first is that we are still looking for a few elders and deacons -[675.92 --> 677.98] to help serve on our church leadership body -[677.98 --> 681.30] The nomination process has been out for the last couple weeks -[681.30 --> 683.90] but that is coming to an end today and tomorrow -[683.90 --> 686.46] So if you have been approached by someone -[686.46 --> 689.60] If you think that you might make a good elder -[689.60 --> 691.14] that you've got the gifts to be a deacon -[691.14 --> 694.56] Please follow sort of the rules or the process -[694.56 --> 696.72] I mean that's in the bulletin and the midweek memo -[696.72 --> 697.94] Chat with your elder -[697.94 --> 698.64] Call myself -[698.64 --> 699.56] Call Pastor Chris -[699.56 --> 700.42] Call the church office -[700.42 --> 702.24] And we are looking for more -[702.24 --> 704.92] So if that is an area that you think you can serve -[704.92 --> 707.44] or an area that someone else has put on your heart to consider -[707.44 --> 708.16] Please pray -[708.16 --> 709.18] Please discern -[709.18 --> 712.12] And please let us know in the next day or two about that -[712.12 --> 715.36] I think we'll hear a little bit more about that later on in the service -[715.36 --> 719.22] Second of all today we are going to be doing a Zoom coffee after church -[719.22 --> 720.98] It would be great to see you all -[720.98 --> 723.96] So if you can sign on to that at about 11.30 today -[723.96 --> 725.86] We'll just hang out for a little bit -[725.86 --> 727.60] See about life, how things are going -[727.60 --> 729.24] And enjoy each other's company -[729.24 --> 731.90] Grab your coffee, your tea, I don't know, your pie -[731.90 --> 734.24] Whatever it is you need and sign on at 11.30 today -[734.24 --> 736.78] The link is in the bulletin that came out yesterday -[736.78 --> 737.88] or the midweek memo as well -[737.88 --> 744.04] And finally, we've been seeing online the pictures of those who have been tagged -[744.04 --> 747.08] For our game, the treat tag that's happening right now -[747.08 --> 750.66] It is something that is building community amongst ourselves here -[750.66 --> 753.32] But also you can spread that beyond the church too -[753.32 --> 756.98] Feel free to go around, drop off a treat at someone's door -[756.98 --> 760.28] Leave the little treat tag note and take a picture of it -[760.28 --> 762.44] And if you've been getting them, remember -[762.44 --> 765.28] If you get tagged, you're it -[765.28 --> 768.04] So make sure to go tag one to five others as well -[768.04 --> 771.20] So we look forward to that game continuing as well -[771.20 --> 774.18] Now, before we begin in worship -[774.18 --> 776.42] Please receive God's greeting this morning -[776.42 --> 779.20] Which comes from Revelation chapter 1 -[779.20 --> 782.04] Grace to you and peace -[782.04 --> 785.90] From him who is and who was and who is to come -[785.90 --> 789.40] And from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness -[789.40 --> 791.46] The firstborn of the dead -[791.46 --> 794.34] And the ruler of the kings of the earth -[794.34 --> 796.06] God's people say -[796.06 --> 797.34] Amen -[797.34 --> 798.84] Let's worship together this morning -[798.84 --> 803.42] Good morning and welcome to worship -[803.42 --> 806.78] God speaks to us today through Psalm 66 -[806.78 --> 810.54] Shout for joy to God, all the earth -[810.54 --> 812.12] Sing the glory of his name -[812.12 --> 814.98] Give him glorious praise -[814.98 --> 817.40] Say to God, how awesome are your deeds -[817.40 --> 821.16] So great is your power that your enemies come cringing to you -[821.16 --> 824.80] All the earth worships you and sings praises to you -[824.80 --> 826.82] They sing praises to your name -[826.82 --> 831.82] We declare your majesty -[831.82 --> 852.94] We declare your majesty -[852.94 --> 859.94] We proclaim that your name is exalted -[859.94 --> 862.94] We proclaim that your name is exalted -[862.94 --> 867.94] For you reign magnificently rule -[867.94 --> 868.94] Our God is mighty -[868.94 --> 869.94] Our God is mighty -[869.94 --> 872.94] Our God is mighty -[872.94 --> 874.94] Lift up your name -[874.94 --> 877.94] For you are holy -[877.94 --> 878.94] Sing it again -[878.94 --> 882.94] All honor and glory -[882.94 --> 889.94] In adoration we bow before your throne -[889.94 --> 897.94] We declare your majesty -[897.94 --> 898.94] We bow before your throne -[898.94 --> 904.94] We declare your majesty -[904.94 --> 910.94] We proclaim that your name is exalted -[910.94 --> 913.94] We proclaim that your name is exalted -[913.94 --> 917.94] For you reign magnificently rule -[917.94 --> 919.94] We proclaim that your name is exalted -[919.94 --> 920.94] We proclaim that your name is exalted -[920.94 --> 921.94] We proclaim that your name is exalted -[921.94 --> 923.94] We proclaim that your name is exalted -[923.94 --> 924.94] You reign magnificently rule -[924.94 --> 925.94] We proclaim that your name is exalted -[925.94 --> 926.94] We proclaim that your name is exalted -[926.94 --> 927.94] In Christ will proclaim the word in the water -[927.94 --> 929.94] So we'll grant you all that your name is exalted -[929.94 --> 930.94] blessings -[930.94 --> 931.94] We glorious Christ from righteousness -[931.94 --> 949.94] You CORPSON -[949.94 --> 954.46] We bow before your throne. -[960.74 --> 963.60] Join me in our prayer of confession and assurance. -[967.36 --> 972.74] Dear God, we declare your majesty. -[973.94 --> 977.16] It's hard to deny when we walk into the glorious sunshine -[977.16 --> 979.66] and hear the singing of the morning birds -[979.66 --> 982.20] and try to capture the beauty of spring flowers. -[983.32 --> 986.34] Your nature, your power, your beauty, your love -[986.34 --> 990.36] is on display for us to proclaim and be captured by in wonder. -[992.04 --> 994.40] And yet, we still forget. -[995.58 --> 998.32] We still bicker and harbor anger against one another. -[999.12 --> 1002.88] We still choose our sinful nature over Christian love. -[1003.88 --> 1006.42] We still turn away from your design, God. -[1008.04 --> 1010.50] We are so sorry. -[1011.88 --> 1015.14] And when we aren't, remind us. -[1015.66 --> 1016.84] Draw us to you. -[1018.34 --> 1021.88] Remind us that it is only by grace that we can enter. -[1023.30 --> 1025.36] We thank you, God, for your mercy. -[1027.78 --> 1028.88] Remind us. -[1030.00 --> 1030.88] In your name we pray. -[1031.38 --> 1031.68] Amen. -[1031.68 --> 1031.80] Amen. -[1037.16 --> 1058.40] Only by grace can we enter. -[1058.40 --> 1063.40] Only by grace can we stand. -[1063.40 --> 1068.58] Not by our human endeavor. -[1069.58 --> 1074.16] But by the blood of the Lamb. -[1074.16 --> 1075.46] Into your presence you trust. -[1075.46 --> 1077.78] Into your presence you trust. -[1079.44 --> 1083.40] You trust you come. -[1084.72 --> 1088.72] Into your presence you trust. -[1088.72 --> 1093.80] And now by your grace we come. -[1094.76 --> 1099.08] And now by your grace we come. -[1099.08 --> 1108.64] Lord, if you mock our transgressions, who would stand? -[1111.36 --> 1118.12] Thanks to your grace, we are cleansed by the blood of the Lamb. -[1120.60 --> 1126.36] Lord, if you mock our transgressions, who would stand? -[1129.08 --> 1136.66] Thanks to your grace, we are cleansed by the blood of the Lamb. -[1139.42 --> 1143.38] Only by grace can we enter. -[1144.66 --> 1147.68] Only by grace can we stand. -[1148.68 --> 1157.68] Not by our human endeavor, but by the blood of the Lamb. -[1157.68 --> 1162.68] Into your presence you call us. -[1163.50 --> 1166.68] You call us to come. -[1168.54 --> 1171.68] Into your presence you draw us. -[1173.48 --> 1175.68] And now by your grace we come. -[1178.02 --> 1181.68] And now by your grace we come. -[1181.68 --> 1194.58] Good morning. -[1195.64 --> 1197.42] Welcome to Kids' Corner, everybody. -[1197.68 --> 1202.66] My name is Mr. Mike, and I have the privilege of sharing a story and a little bit of a lesson with you today. -[1202.66 --> 1211.70] But, first, we've been working on a memory work this month, as we have been every month, kind of through the spring and part of the fall. -[1212.12 --> 1219.38] And this month, our memory work comes from, well, we're going to let Nora DeWinter help us out with that. -[1219.38 --> 1222.12] So here's Nora to walk us through the memory work this month. -[1222.12 --> 1238.08] For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life. -[1238.70 --> 1240.00] John 3.16. -[1240.00 --> 1244.36] Thank you, Nora. -[1244.50 --> 1245.12] Nice work. -[1245.26 --> 1247.62] I hope everybody's getting that verse really well. -[1248.84 --> 1252.06] So, we are in kind of a celebration of Easter. -[1252.18 --> 1260.44] Easter was a couple weeks ago, and we're still celebrating Jesus and his message on earth and working towards his ascension to heaven. -[1261.16 --> 1267.40] So this week, before we get into the story, we're going to play a little game I used to call, Do You Doubt It? -[1267.40 --> 1268.28] Okay? -[1268.52 --> 1274.66] So we're going to work through a few little facts or quiz kind of questions. -[1275.20 --> 1286.08] And you guys at home, make sure you come close to the camera or to the TV screen, sorry, so you can see the statement that you guys have to decide, Do You Doubt It? -[1286.38 --> 1287.74] Or could it be true? -[1288.44 --> 1288.76] Okay? -[1289.34 --> 1292.60] So my kids, so a special thank you to Gracie, Riz, and Liv. -[1292.64 --> 1294.68] They came up with all these cool factoids. -[1295.06 --> 1296.26] And you guys are going to help me out. -[1296.26 --> 1296.62] All right? -[1296.70 --> 1297.66] So here's the first one. -[1297.80 --> 1299.16] And I have not seen these. -[1299.42 --> 1301.56] So I don't know if they're true or false. -[1301.80 --> 1302.06] Okay? -[1302.72 --> 1303.66] Here's the first one. -[1305.22 --> 1314.18] Naomi, you might remember, Ruth's mother-in-law from the Bible, and her family left Bethlehem to Moab because of a famine. -[1315.64 --> 1316.74] Do you doubt it? -[1317.52 --> 1319.44] I don't know. -[1319.52 --> 1320.76] I don't really remember the story very well. -[1320.80 --> 1321.36] What do you think? -[1321.80 --> 1322.54] Do you doubt it? -[1322.54 --> 1323.32] Or is that true? -[1323.32 --> 1324.24] Let's see. -[1325.06 --> 1325.50] True. -[1326.32 --> 1326.68] Okay. -[1327.28 --> 1333.12] This, Moab, is where her sons met their wives, Ruth and Oprah. -[1333.54 --> 1333.92] Okay. -[1334.26 --> 1336.40] So maybe a little easy one to start off with. -[1336.88 --> 1337.40] Next one. -[1337.86 --> 1338.66] Do you doubt this? -[1338.66 --> 1343.60] The Canucks have won the Stanley Cup three times. -[1344.38 --> 1346.54] I doubt that. -[1346.66 --> 1348.00] I heavily, heavily doubt that. -[1348.06 --> 1349.70] I'm a bit of an Oilers fan myself. -[1350.28 --> 1351.06] There's not a chance. -[1351.82 --> 1352.56] What do you guys think? -[1352.72 --> 1353.60] Do you doubt it? -[1353.90 --> 1354.82] Or is it true? -[1355.66 --> 1356.08] Let's see. -[1357.08 --> 1357.50] Nope. -[1357.50 --> 1359.60] I doubt it. -[1359.60 --> 1359.70] I doubt it. -[1359.74 --> 1360.46] And that was right. -[1360.80 --> 1364.22] They've made it to the finals three times, but have never won. -[1364.76 --> 1364.90] Yeah. -[1365.22 --> 1365.42] Yeah. -[1365.50 --> 1365.86] Tricky. -[1366.58 --> 1368.94] Some of your parents might be turning off the TV pretty soon. -[1369.64 --> 1370.14] Keeps up. -[1370.58 --> 1371.58] Here's the next one. -[1373.42 --> 1379.06] High heels fashion originated, it started, with men. -[1379.80 --> 1382.28] With boys and high heels? -[1382.28 --> 1385.36] I doubt that. -[1386.08 --> 1389.90] I think I've never worn them, and there's not a chance I could walk in them. -[1390.00 --> 1391.10] For sure, it started with ladies. -[1391.24 --> 1391.86] What do you think? -[1392.48 --> 1393.16] You doubt it? -[1393.86 --> 1394.64] You think it's true? -[1396.02 --> 1396.50] True. -[1398.42 --> 1402.26] Soldiers wore them to make riding horses easier. -[1403.88 --> 1407.80] I should check my kids' where they got this. -[1407.80 --> 1411.88] The heel went around the stirrup into the little, where you put your foot. -[1412.28 --> 1412.72] Wow. -[1412.92 --> 1413.82] That's fascinating. -[1414.78 --> 1415.16] Okay. -[1415.26 --> 1416.04] Here's the next one. -[1417.06 --> 1417.80] Are you keeping track? -[1417.88 --> 1418.80] I'm not keeping points. -[1419.00 --> 1419.82] It's okay if you don't. -[1420.66 --> 1422.14] Some of you are probably doing better than me. -[1423.38 --> 1423.98] Next up. -[1424.96 --> 1430.58] Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were thrown into the lion's den and lived. -[1431.56 --> 1431.82] Wow. -[1431.92 --> 1432.04] Yeah. -[1432.12 --> 1433.98] I mean, we've all heard that story, right? -[1434.04 --> 1435.58] That's like a common story. -[1435.68 --> 1436.20] I know it. -[1436.24 --> 1436.78] You know it. -[1436.78 --> 1437.28] It's true. -[1437.40 --> 1437.76] It's for sure. -[1437.86 --> 1438.00] It's true. -[1439.76 --> 1440.16] Nope. -[1440.16 --> 1442.36] Did you guys know? -[1442.56 --> 1443.24] Did I get it wrong? -[1444.18 --> 1448.44] They were thrown into a fiery furnace for not worshiping the king. -[1448.60 --> 1450.18] Who was thrown into the lion's den? -[1450.64 --> 1451.28] You guys remember? -[1452.28 --> 1452.74] Daniel. -[1452.98 --> 1453.18] Yeah. -[1453.36 --> 1453.84] Daniel. -[1454.10 --> 1454.28] Ugh. -[1454.60 --> 1454.94] Tricky. -[1455.40 --> 1455.74] Tricky. -[1457.22 --> 1457.92] Next one. -[1458.10 --> 1459.02] Do you doubt this? -[1460.42 --> 1463.64] The human brain is mostly made of water. -[1463.64 --> 1466.46] Give your head a shake. -[1466.60 --> 1468.92] I don't really hear any sloshing. -[1470.36 --> 1470.94] I doubt it. -[1471.90 --> 1472.14] Nope. -[1472.60 --> 1472.84] Nope. -[1472.92 --> 1474.10] I got brains in my brains. -[1474.20 --> 1475.32] I don't got water in my brain. -[1477.24 --> 1477.64] Nope. -[1477.78 --> 1478.62] I am wrong again. -[1479.18 --> 1481.02] Mostly, it's made of fat. -[1481.20 --> 1481.34] Oh. -[1481.84 --> 1484.30] So, it wasn't made of brains, but it wasn't made of water either. -[1485.36 --> 1485.96] Do you know how... -[1485.96 --> 1487.52] Here's a little extra factoid. -[1487.60 --> 1488.94] Do you know how heavy your brain is? -[1489.58 --> 1492.10] The average brain weighs 11 pounds. -[1493.60 --> 1496.54] I don't know if mine weighs that much, but... -[1496.54 --> 1497.60] Here we go. -[1497.74 --> 1498.30] Next one. -[1499.44 --> 1500.24] Do you doubt this? -[1501.16 --> 1505.32] A camel has two eyelids. -[1505.62 --> 1506.76] I think for each eye. -[1507.12 --> 1507.88] Two eyelids. -[1509.60 --> 1511.02] That sounds kind of weird. -[1511.92 --> 1512.56] I doubt it. -[1512.80 --> 1513.50] What do you think? -[1514.30 --> 1515.02] You doubt it? -[1515.14 --> 1515.96] Or do you think it's true? -[1517.28 --> 1518.36] They live in the desert. -[1518.94 --> 1520.36] You know, they're crazy. -[1521.04 --> 1521.40] Nope. -[1521.60 --> 1521.72] Oh. -[1522.26 --> 1524.24] They have three eyelids. -[1524.52 --> 1526.12] That is crazy. -[1526.66 --> 1527.62] I didn't know that. -[1528.54 --> 1529.88] I'm going to have to look that up later. -[1530.04 --> 1531.36] Get to see what the picture of that is. -[1531.74 --> 1532.28] Next one. -[1533.24 --> 1534.06] Do you doubt this? -[1535.88 --> 1538.44] There are 55 books in the Bible. -[1539.58 --> 1540.34] Is that true? -[1540.56 --> 1541.18] Or false? -[1541.28 --> 1541.74] What do you think? -[1541.76 --> 1543.86] How many books in the Bible are there? -[1543.90 --> 1544.46] Do you know them all? -[1544.46 --> 1545.18] Genesis, Exodus. -[1545.64 --> 1545.88] Wow. -[1547.34 --> 1547.62] Nope. -[1547.62 --> 1548.92] How many are there? -[1549.66 --> 1550.76] There are 66. -[1551.78 --> 1556.60] 39 in the Old Testament and 27 in the New Testament. -[1557.16 --> 1557.74] So 66. -[1558.00 --> 1559.12] Oh, that was another tricky one. -[1560.52 --> 1561.48] Last one. -[1562.20 --> 1563.10] Do you doubt this? -[1563.10 --> 1568.08] Some cats are allergic to humans. -[1569.60 --> 1570.98] That seems backwards. -[1571.14 --> 1574.56] Like, I know lots of people that, humans, that are allergic to cats. -[1575.84 --> 1576.96] Do you doubt that? -[1577.22 --> 1578.08] Or is that true? -[1579.70 --> 1580.52] It's true. -[1582.10 --> 1584.06] But I've never heard one sneeze. -[1584.60 --> 1585.50] Or have I? -[1585.90 --> 1586.18] Ooh. -[1586.44 --> 1586.64] Ooh. -[1586.64 --> 1588.78] Tricky question from my family. -[1589.12 --> 1591.46] Thanks, family, for these great factoids. -[1591.46 --> 1593.10] Did you guys get a lot of those? -[1593.22 --> 1595.32] Did you doubt some of those crazy facts? -[1595.74 --> 1599.32] There's some crazy stuff in the world and some really cool stuff in the Bible. -[1600.00 --> 1603.78] I bet you today you could come up with some of your own cool facts and maybe throw them -[1603.78 --> 1605.90] up on our social media or message us to them. -[1606.36 --> 1607.46] We can always play a game with them. -[1607.94 --> 1612.84] But we're going to read a story kind of about that, about a person who doubted some of the -[1612.84 --> 1615.06] crazy, awesome stuff that God did. -[1615.06 --> 1622.00] And a big one, of course, that happened at Easter was Jesus rose from the dead and defeated -[1622.00 --> 1623.34] death for all of us. -[1624.00 --> 1626.26] So here's a story of someone who kind of doubted that. -[1627.96 --> 1631.14] It's called Doubting Thomas from the book of John 20. -[1631.14 --> 1637.18] Now Thomas had not yet seen Jesus and he doubted. -[1637.78 --> 1641.82] I need to touch the nail holes in his hand, he said. -[1642.08 --> 1647.26] I need to see the place in his side where the soldiers stuck him with his spear before -[1647.26 --> 1648.72] I will believe he's alive. -[1649.92 --> 1653.20] The disciples were meeting in a room with the door shut tight. -[1654.10 --> 1658.42] Suddenly, Jesus showed up right in the middle of them all. -[1658.42 --> 1660.16] It was a miracle. -[1661.42 --> 1663.42] Jesus hallowed his hands and showed his scars. -[1664.12 --> 1666.68] Touch the places where the nails went in. -[1667.28 --> 1671.84] Thomas, feel the spot on my side where the spear pierced me. -[1672.92 --> 1674.58] Finally, Thomas believed. -[1675.66 --> 1677.68] You are Jesus, he said. -[1678.06 --> 1679.76] My Lord and my God. -[1681.06 --> 1683.02] Thomas, you have seen me and believed. -[1683.02 --> 1690.20] Blessed are those people who haven't seen me and still believe anyway, Jesus said. -[1692.44 --> 1693.64] What a cool story. -[1693.86 --> 1698.10] And that was pretty cool that Jesus appeared to Thomas and showed himself to him. -[1698.46 --> 1699.00] Because you know what? -[1699.08 --> 1703.52] Thomas, his friends, all the other disciples, some of them had already seen Jesus, right? -[1703.90 --> 1704.88] Or had heard from him. -[1705.04 --> 1708.96] And they told Thomas that story and Thomas said, no, you know, I got to see this to believe -[1708.96 --> 1709.06] it. -[1709.10 --> 1709.56] I don't know. -[1709.56 --> 1710.16] You know? -[1710.84 --> 1712.52] And I think a lot of us have that. -[1712.64 --> 1716.58] I think maybe some of us know people in our family or friends that are like, I don't know. -[1716.66 --> 1717.66] I don't see God. -[1717.78 --> 1719.36] I don't think he's real. -[1719.40 --> 1721.40] I don't think Jesus is around anymore. -[1722.02 --> 1723.08] But is that true? -[1723.80 --> 1725.12] We sometimes doubt that. -[1725.76 --> 1729.92] What are some ways you see Jesus or God in your life every day? -[1730.24 --> 1731.54] I was reminded the other day. -[1731.60 --> 1732.46] We went for a hike. -[1732.96 --> 1734.36] And we were on the mountaintop. -[1734.36 --> 1739.54] And we looked over the creation, you know, the trees and the blue lake and the blue sky. -[1739.64 --> 1741.62] And even walking in the path, all the green. -[1741.74 --> 1743.86] I was like, this is amazing. -[1744.38 --> 1745.96] There's no way that just happens. -[1746.10 --> 1747.90] There's got to be a God. -[1748.38 --> 1750.70] And then this week, what happened in our church? -[1750.86 --> 1752.22] We had two babies born. -[1752.32 --> 1754.18] We'll hear maybe more about that in the congregational prayer. -[1754.50 --> 1755.38] Two babies born. -[1755.44 --> 1757.18] A year ago, they weren't even people. -[1757.98 --> 1760.96] And now we have whole new people added to our church family. -[1760.96 --> 1763.64] That's amazing, you know? -[1764.44 --> 1766.34] So what are some ways that you see God? -[1766.92 --> 1769.28] What are the ways you see Jesus working in your life? -[1769.58 --> 1775.78] What are some ways maybe your friends have experienced Jesus or heard of Jesus' love? -[1776.14 --> 1778.36] Maybe you and your families can talk about that this week. -[1778.44 --> 1779.72] Maybe ask your mom and dad. -[1780.08 --> 1782.54] How have you seen Jesus, mom and dad? -[1782.68 --> 1783.62] Or grandma and grandpa? -[1783.84 --> 1784.66] Or your aunt and uncle? -[1784.76 --> 1787.98] How have you seen Jesus in their lives? -[1787.98 --> 1792.78] And they might have some pretty cool stories to tell, much like the disciples had when Jesus came back. -[1794.22 --> 1795.84] Well, let's close this in prayer. -[1796.48 --> 1797.50] And I hope you have a great day. -[1797.64 --> 1798.08] Let's pray. -[1800.30 --> 1808.54] Heavenly Father, we thank you so much that you defeated death and have made yourself real to this world in so many ways. -[1808.62 --> 1816.54] Whether appearing to the disciples or showing up in our lives in amazing little ways in creation, in stories, in miracles. -[1816.54 --> 1820.10] And we just pray that we would have eyes open to see those things. -[1820.54 --> 1828.36] We also pray for your encouragement to share those stories and to tell our friends around us that you are real in our lives. -[1829.12 --> 1829.80] In your name we pray. -[1830.14 --> 1830.38] Amen. -[1831.60 --> 1831.98] All right. -[1832.14 --> 1833.24] We'll see you guys next week. -[1833.36 --> 1834.00] Have a good Sunday. -[1834.00 --> 1863.98] Have a good Sunday. -[1864.00 --> 1893.98] Have a good Sunday. -[1894.00 --> 1923.98] Have a good Sunday. -[1923.98 --> 1925.98] Have a good Sunday. -[1925.98 --> 1953.96] Have a good Sunday. -[1953.96 --> 1954.96] Have a good Sunday. -[1955.10 --> 1955.96] Have a good Sunday. -[1955.96 --> 1957.82] Have a good Sunday. -[1957.96 --> 1959.96] Have a good Sunday. -[1960.10 --> 1960.96] The Wednesday night. -[1960.96 --> 1966.74] Pharmacular and have a good Sunday offering life. -[1966.74 --> 1970.74] shaping communities, and supporting students. -[1970.74 --> 1974.74] They currently work in 11 countries in Central America, -[1974.74 --> 1980.74] the Caribbean, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Southeast Asia. -[1980.74 --> 1986.74] Without your prayers or financial gifts, this work would not be able to happen. -[1986.74 --> 1991.74] And that is why it is their mission to show you the tangible difference -[1991.74 --> 1997.74] that you are making for the teachers, the schools, and the students. -[1997.74 --> 2001.74] From Proverbs 3, the first couple of verses, we read these words, -[2001.74 --> 2007.74] My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, -[2007.74 --> 2014.74] for they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity. -[2014.74 --> 2018.74] Next week's offering is for GEMS. -[2018.74 --> 2026.74] GEMS is a church ministry for girls that are in grades 3 through 7. -[2026.74 --> 2031.74] Please refer to the midweek memo or the church's e-bulletin -[2031.74 --> 2035.74] on the many ways to give for today's offering. -[2035.74 --> 2040.74] Take time in prayer and consider where you can help out today. -[2040.74 --> 2042.74] Thank you. -[2042.74 --> 2052.74] We will now go into our congregational prayer, and I want to just mention a few things before we do. -[2052.74 --> 2059.74] We are again to be blessed as a church to celebrate new life. -[2059.74 --> 2068.74] And we want to celebrate with Brandon and Savannah, Dan and Rebecca, -[2068.74 --> 2074.74] and also still with Dan and Ismay also, who had a, all three of these families have had baby girls, -[2074.74 --> 2077.74] and to that we celebrate with them. -[2077.74 --> 2082.74] And also there are still those expecting in the coming months as well, -[2082.74 --> 2088.74] some fairly soon and some further along, and we want to remember them also. -[2088.74 --> 2096.74] As we remember life, we also need to remember those who have had loved ones pass on, -[2096.74 --> 2103.74] and who the Lord has taken away from us here, and that we need to be with them also in prayer. -[2103.74 --> 2111.74] And I'm going to go out on a limb here, and we also, as we celebrate life, we need to celebrate birthdays. -[2111.74 --> 2117.74] These are wonderful ways that God has blessed us to be able to celebrate what he has given to us. -[2117.74 --> 2120.74] And today, it is Pastor Chris' birthday. -[2120.74 --> 2124.74] I'm going to go out on a limb here and take full authority for what I'm saying, -[2124.74 --> 2128.74] and if this is wrong, I'll take the heat. -[2128.74 --> 2134.74] But Pastor Chris, to you we want to say happy birthday, and may the Lord be with you today. -[2134.74 --> 2136.74] Shall we go in prayer? -[2136.74 --> 2148.74] Heavenly Father, we come before your throne on this wonderful, beautiful, sunny day. -[2148.74 --> 2150.74] Lord, we thank you for life. -[2150.74 --> 2157.74] We thank you for each day that you give to us, and today too, may we see your goodness. -[2157.74 --> 2161.74] And Lord, it seems easier when the days are sunny and warm, -[2161.74 --> 2170.74] and yet still we know that even on those cold, rainy days, there too you are with us, and that you bless us then also. -[2170.74 --> 2176.74] Lord, may we see the gifts that you give to us each day again, and may we be thankful for them. -[2176.74 --> 2178.74] And Lord, may we thank you. -[2178.74 --> 2181.74] Lord, you bless us richly. -[2181.74 --> 2186.74] And Lord, as you bless us, may we too bless those around us. -[2186.74 --> 2200.74] Lord, today we are offering for Ed Judeo, and Lord, we pray that this worldwide ministry supporting Christian education throughout the world, -[2200.74 --> 2203.74] Lord, may they too be blessed by our gifts. -[2203.74 --> 2212.74] Lord, we pray also for our local schools also, both the Christian schools and also the public schools also, Lord. -[2212.74 --> 2219.74] Wherever you have placed students and teachers, Lord, may they each one, Lord, know that you lead them in their lives. -[2219.74 --> 2227.74] Lord, we thank you for a new life that you have blessed to our church family here. -[2227.74 --> 2229.74] Lord, we pray for Bren and Savannah. -[2229.74 --> 2231.74] We pray for Dan and Rebecca. -[2231.74 --> 2237.74] For Dan and Ismay, Lord, each family has been blessed with little baby girls. -[2237.74 --> 2240.74] And Lord, we thank you. -[2240.74 --> 2243.74] We pray, Lord, that each one may grow healthy. -[2243.74 --> 2250.74] That each one, Lord, in their own simple ways may come to know you and grow close to you as they grow up. -[2250.74 --> 2260.74] Lord, we pray for the parents too, that you would bless them with gifts that they too need to grow their children in you. -[2260.74 --> 2271.74] Lord, we pray for health for each one, and we pray also, Lord, for those who grieve still. -[2271.74 --> 2273.74] Lord, we pray for Juanita. -[2273.74 --> 2276.74] We pray for Dolores. -[2276.74 --> 2279.74] Lord, we pray for Janet. -[2279.74 --> 2292.74] Lord, we pray for Dick and Emily and their family, Lord, as Emily lost her mother also now some time ago. -[2292.74 --> 2300.74] And still, Lord, there are others of us, Lord, who have lost perhaps loved ones years ago. -[2300.74 --> 2304.74] Still, Lord, we mourn. -[2304.74 --> 2313.74] And Lord, each day we come to you for strength, for comfort. -[2313.74 --> 2325.74] We pray, Lord, that as a church family too, we may surround each other and bless each other with the gifts, Lord, that you have given to us. -[2325.74 --> 2338.74] Lord, we know also that even today there are those in our church family here also who still hurt and who have health issues, Lord, that we may not know about. -[2338.74 --> 2343.74] Lord, we pray for each one, that they may experience your healing touch. -[2343.74 --> 2350.74] That they may know, Lord, that still you watch over each one. -[2350.74 --> 2355.74] And Lord, there are also those who are struggling with COVID. -[2355.74 --> 2360.74] And Lord, we pray for the Elkhema family. -[2360.74 --> 2372.74] Lord, as various members have been tested positive, Lord, through this challenging time of isolation, Lord, be with them. -[2372.74 --> 2375.74] We pray that you would provide them with healing. -[2375.74 --> 2384.74] You would provide others, Lord, in our church perhaps also who are dealing with the same issues that they too may experience your healing touch also. -[2384.74 --> 2390.74] Lord, there are also a number who are shut in. -[2390.74 --> 2395.74] Lord, we pray for Judy and Diane. -[2395.74 --> 2400.74] Lord, we pray for Miriam and for Frank. -[2400.74 --> 2405.74] May they too continue to experience healing from surgeries that they have gone through. -[2405.74 --> 2417.74] And yet, Lord, there are other families still who are dealing with broken relationships. -[2417.74 --> 2418.74] You know each one by name. -[2418.74 --> 2420.74] You know the struggles, Lord. -[2420.74 --> 2421.74] We pray for healing. -[2421.74 --> 2426.74] We pray for strength and comfort for each of those families also. -[2426.74 --> 2433.74] And Lord, even though we may not know them by name, may we hold them up to you, Lord. -[2433.74 --> 2442.74] And Lord, we pray for our church's leadership also. -[2442.74 --> 2454.74] That, Lord, as we travel, as we lead this church family, Lord, through these challenging times, may we know, Lord, that you are with us. -[2454.74 --> 2456.74] May we seek you for wisdom. -[2456.74 --> 2463.74] May we, as we as a church, may we be a shining light in this community. -[2463.74 --> 2477.74] And Lord, we so often think of what do we pray for and how do we bring this forward to you. -[2477.74 --> 2479.74] And Lord, even simple things. -[2479.74 --> 2486.74] Lord, we, as this past week, we have gone through this treat tag. -[2486.74 --> 2492.74] As simple as that may seem, Lord, we pray that that too may bring community together here. -[2492.74 --> 2497.74] And that as a church family, we may be able to share gifts with each other as you have blessed us. -[2497.74 --> 2500.74] And that it may connect us closer as a family. -[2500.74 --> 2505.74] Lord, we thank you for these opportunities. -[2505.74 --> 2511.74] Lord, we thank you also for those who are able to lead and worship each week again. -[2511.74 --> 2518.74] And today also, Lord, there is a group here that is leading in word and in song. -[2518.74 --> 2523.74] Lord, we pray for Kevin as he brings your word to us today. -[2523.74 --> 2526.74] Give him the words to speak, Lord, that we may hear them. -[2526.74 --> 2531.74] Lord, we pray that each one may grow closer to you. -[2531.74 --> 2534.74] We pray these things, Lord, in your name. -[2534.74 --> 2535.74] Amen. -[2543.74 --> 2544.74] Good morning again. -[2544.74 --> 2547.74] It's a pleasure to be with you this morning. -[2547.74 --> 2551.74] As Elder John just said, can I call you Elder John? -[2552.74 --> 2554.74] I'm just, I'm going to call him Elder John. -[2554.74 --> 2556.74] I think that's just going to be his new name now. -[2556.74 --> 2559.74] As Elder John has already told us, it is Pastor Chris's birthday today, -[2559.74 --> 2561.74] which is one of the reasons I'm here. -[2561.74 --> 2565.74] But it's also a reason why I'm going to do something a little different right now. -[2565.74 --> 2571.74] Instead of sort of my usual introductory story or some sort of playful banter like I sometimes do, -[2571.74 --> 2582.74] I'm going to give you all 73 seconds starting now to pull out your phones and to send Pastor Chris a text, a DM, an email. -[2582.74 --> 2587.74] I want to flood his phones with congratulations and happy birthdays right now. -[2587.74 --> 2593.74] And while you're doing that, I'm going to take the next 57 seconds, your time has already started, I hope you're doing this already, -[2593.74 --> 2596.74] to tell you some of my favorite birthday jokes. -[2596.74 --> 2599.74] And so keep doing that, keep sending the messages, this is good. -[2599.74 --> 2602.74] But while you do that, have an ear open to listen to these beauties. -[2602.74 --> 2605.74] What did the teddy bear say on his birthday? -[2605.74 --> 2609.74] No cake for me, please, I'm stuffed. -[2609.74 --> 2613.74] That's good. Linda liked that one in the back. -[2613.74 --> 2618.74] Number two, why do we put candles on top of birthday cakes? -[2618.74 --> 2621.74] Because it's too hard to put them on the bottom. -[2621.74 --> 2623.74] I know, they're just a good one. -[2623.74 --> 2625.74] And finally, number three here. -[2625.74 --> 2627.74] Oh, Mike liked that one, that's good. -[2627.74 --> 2632.74] Number three here, what did the pirate say on his 80th birthday? -[2632.74 --> 2635.74] I'm 80. -[2635.74 --> 2638.74] That's good, a few laughs and it starts here. -[2638.74 --> 2640.74] Those are my favorites, I hope that's good. -[2640.74 --> 2643.74] You now have five seconds to finish up those texts and messages -[2643.74 --> 2646.74] and then we're gonna forget about Chris for the next 20 minutes. -[2646.74 --> 2649.74] So two, one, time's up, there it goes. -[2649.74 --> 2651.74] All right, Chris, I hope your phone broke. -[2651.74 --> 2655.74] Everybody else, put your phones away or pull them out. -[2655.74 --> 2658.74] And you can follow along for our text this morning. -[2658.74 --> 2663.74] Before we do that though, speaking of birthdays, did you know that I get the same thing for my birthday every year? -[2663.74 --> 2665.74] It's sort of turned into like this fun tradition. -[2665.74 --> 2668.74] So every year, I get a year older. -[2668.74 --> 2671.74] One more joke in there, finish off strong. -[2671.74 --> 2677.74] All right, today we're gonna look at our text, James 4, verses 1 to 12. -[2677.74 --> 2681.74] And so pull out your Bibles, pull out your phones if that's what you read your Bible on, -[2681.74 --> 2685.74] snuggle up with your tea, whatever you need, and follow along in James 4, verses 1 to 12. -[2685.74 --> 2688.74] And as we read it, I want you to notice a bit of a tone shift. -[2688.74 --> 2693.74] We've been working through this sermon series on James, and this is a passage that really shifts tones. -[2693.74 --> 2698.74] And so pull out your Bibles and see if you can spot that today and read along with me. -[2698.74 --> 2702.74] So, James 4, 1 to 12, it says this. -[2702.74 --> 2706.74] What causes fights and quarrels amongst you? -[2706.74 --> 2709.74] Don't they come from your desires that battle within you? -[2709.74 --> 2713.74] You desire, but you do not have, so you kill. -[2713.74 --> 2719.74] You covet, but you cannot get what you want, and so you quarrel and fight. -[2719.74 --> 2722.74] You do not have because you do not ask God. -[2722.74 --> 2726.74] And when you do ask, you do not receive, because you ask with the wrong motives, -[2726.74 --> 2731.74] that you may spend what you get on your pleasures. -[2731.74 --> 2737.74] You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? -[2737.74 --> 2744.74] Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. -[2744.74 --> 2752.74] Or do you think that Scripture says, without reason, that he jealously longs for the spirit he has caused to dwell in us? -[2752.74 --> 2754.74] But he gives us more grace. -[2754.74 --> 2761.74] That is why Scripture says, God opposes the proud, but shows favor to the humble. -[2761.74 --> 2763.74] Submit yourselves then to God. -[2763.74 --> 2766.74] Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. -[2766.74 --> 2769.74] Come near to God, and he will come near to you. -[2769.74 --> 2771.74] Wash your hands, you sinners. -[2771.74 --> 2775.74] Purify your hearts, you double-minded. -[2775.74 --> 2778.74] Grieve, mourn, and wail. -[2778.74 --> 2785.74] Change your laughter into mourning, and your joy into gloom. -[2785.74 --> 2790.74] Humble yourself before the Lord, and he will lift you up. -[2790.74 --> 2793.74] Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. -[2793.74 --> 2797.74] Anyone who speaks against a brother or a sister, or judges them, -[2797.74 --> 2800.74] speaks against the law and judges it. -[2800.74 --> 2808.74] When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it. -[2808.74 --> 2814.74] There is only one lawgiver and judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. -[2814.74 --> 2818.74] But you, who are you to judge your neighbor? -[2818.74 --> 2821.74] The word of the Lord. -[2821.74 --> 2827.74] Now, before we dig too deeply into this passage, it's important to remember sort of where we are coming from. -[2827.74 --> 2832.74] Last week, Pastor Christ, he helped us look at two different types of wisdom. -[2832.74 --> 2837.74] On the one hand, we have earthly wisdom, which brings on disorder in our hearts. -[2837.74 --> 2846.74] But the second type of wisdom is heavenly wisdom, which, as James 3 teaches us, allows us to become peacemakers in this world. -[2846.74 --> 2850.74] And the final verse of chapter 3, before the text we read today, says, -[2850.74 --> 2858.74] peacemakers whom heavenly wisdom brings, peacemakers who sow in peace, reap a harvest of righteousness. -[2858.74 --> 2864.74] And then we get our text today, and you can kind of see the tone shift start right off the bat. -[2864.74 --> 2870.74] We jump from peacemaking into what causes quarrels and fights amongst you. -[2870.74 --> 2873.74] That's the question that leads off our text today. -[2873.74 --> 2876.74] James doesn't miss a beat when answering his own question, though. -[2876.74 --> 2881.74] And he says right away that it is our desires that do. -[2881.74 --> 2886.74] The selfish desires of our heart. -[2886.74 --> 2890.74] Now, desires, James uses the Greek word. -[2890.74 --> 2894.74] And before I say this Greek word, let's all remember that I'm a seminary student. -[2894.74 --> 2896.74] I haven't taken my Greek yet. -[2896.74 --> 2901.74] And I learned how to pronounce this word on YouTube, which sort of makes me question my higher education altogether. -[2901.74 --> 2909.74] But James uses this Greek word hedone, which is where we get our word hedonism from. -[2909.74 --> 2917.74] Now, for those of you who don't know, hedonism is this philosophy that makes the goal of our lives pleasure. -[2917.74 --> 2923.74] It's the philosophy that pleasure is the most important thing to pursue. -[2923.74 --> 2935.74] And so James is looking at these Christians that he's writing to and he's saying, you kill and you covet figuratively and perhaps even literally for the things you desire, for the pleasures that you want. -[2935.74 --> 2943.74] And even in prayer, even in prayer, you do not pray for God's will, but you pray selfishly. -[2943.74 --> 2947.74] You pray, my will be done and my name be great. -[2947.74 --> 2951.74] James is very assertive here. -[2951.74 --> 2961.74] For example, you'll notice that after these first three verses, he transitions with verse four and he uses this line as an introductory to that. -[2961.74 --> 2966.74] He looks, he looks, starts verse four off with you adulterous people. -[2966.74 --> 2975.74] Now, throughout this whole letter, all the way through these first three chapters, every time he addresses his readers, he uses the language brothers and sisters. -[2975.74 --> 2977.74] Not here. -[2977.74 --> 2978.74] Not here. -[2978.74 --> 2980.74] Change is here. -[2980.74 --> 2985.74] He transitions by saying, you adulterous people. -[2985.74 --> 2989.74] This shift matters. -[2989.74 --> 2991.74] It matters a lot. -[2991.74 --> 2993.74] This is not brothers and sisters. -[2993.74 --> 2995.74] This is you adulterous people. -[2995.74 --> 2998.74] This needs to grab our attention. -[2998.74 --> 3004.74] If you're listening right now, if you're watching, and you believe in God the Father almighty, -[3004.74 --> 3013.74] if you believe in God the Father almighty, the creator of heaven and earth, and you believe in his only begotten son who was born of the Virgin Mary, -[3013.74 --> 3022.74] who lived a perfect life, who was crucified, who died, who was buried, and on the third day he rose again from the dead, defeating sin and death forever. -[3022.74 --> 3029.74] If you believe that, then you are the bride of Christ. -[3029.74 --> 3030.74] The church. -[3030.74 --> 3031.74] The church. -[3031.74 --> 3036.74] The church is the bride of Christ. -[3036.74 --> 3038.74] That means you're committed to Christ. -[3038.74 --> 3040.74] You've committed to him. -[3040.74 --> 3047.74] Honestly, you've committed to Christ even more so than you've committed to your spouse, if you are in fact married. -[3047.74 --> 3053.74] Because the commitment you made to your spouse is until death do us part. -[3053.74 --> 3058.74] But this commitment to Christ, that's a commitment to forever. -[3058.74 --> 3062.74] For all of glorious eternity in heaven. -[3065.74 --> 3070.74] Now in marriage, if you cheat on your spouse and commit adultery, your marriage will suffer. -[3070.74 --> 3074.74] And that will also likely end. -[3074.74 --> 3077.74] What happens if we cheat on our Savior? -[3077.74 --> 3081.74] What happens if we commit adultery against our Lord? -[3083.74 --> 3086.74] Verse 4, you adulterous people. -[3086.74 --> 3088.74] That's the question we're going to look at today. -[3088.74 --> 3092.74] How are we as Christ followers adulterous? -[3092.74 --> 3094.74] And what can we do about that? -[3094.74 --> 3104.74] Again, James 4 says, you adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? -[3104.74 --> 3109.74] Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. -[3111.74 --> 3115.74] James is saying we commit adultery by becoming friends with the world. -[3115.74 --> 3116.74] But what does that mean? -[3116.74 --> 3123.74] Well, like verses 1 through 3, friendship with the world comes down to the sinful desires of the heart. -[3123.74 --> 3128.74] It comes from seeking pleasure from the world as a means of fulfillment. -[3128.74 --> 3130.74] In a nutshell, this is a nice little quote. -[3130.74 --> 3137.74] In a nutshell, friendship to the world is the sinful desires of our hearts, -[3137.74 --> 3143.74] which are motivated, and this is important, by a longing for earthly pleasure. -[3143.74 --> 3158.74] Our culture, this is so, so applicable to our lives here. -[3158.74 --> 3161.74] Our culture pushes pleasure so much. -[3161.74 --> 3163.74] Our culture pushes us to want pleasure. -[3163.74 --> 3166.74] Our culture pushes us to receive pleasure. -[3166.74 --> 3168.74] It is a pleasure-driven society. -[3168.74 --> 3175.74] We see it in the media we consume, in what TV shows or movies we watch, the music we listen to. -[3175.74 --> 3177.74] You see it in any advertisement you watch. -[3177.74 --> 3179.74] They're created for us. -[3179.74 --> 3185.74] We see it in how sex is portrayed in our world, the lifestyles that we're pushed to consume. -[3185.74 --> 3187.74] It's all pleasure-based. -[3187.74 --> 3189.74] We want pleasure. -[3189.74 --> 3190.74] We all do. -[3190.74 --> 3192.74] We want the newest phones. -[3192.74 --> 3199.74] We want the nicer cars, the fancy living room, the nice outside patio area, the big pension plan. -[3199.74 --> 3205.74] We want these things because we're told it will bring us comfort, and we're told it will bring us pleasure. -[3205.74 --> 3212.74] Life will be easier if only you had... fill in the blank. -[3212.74 --> 3222.74] And if we're honest with ourselves, I mean if we're truly, truly honest, not only do we want pleasure, -[3222.74 --> 3229.74] but we'll find ourselves prioritizing our own comforts, our own pleasures, ahead of other people's needs. -[3229.74 --> 3237.74] And I don't just mean the poor, the homeless, the orphan, the widow, but I don't want to minimize them either, -[3237.74 --> 3241.74] because Jesus speaks of them over and over again in his ministry. -[3241.74 --> 3250.74] Now, while that's likely true, we often prioritize our own needs, sorry, our own wants, our own pleasures, -[3250.74 --> 3253.74] over the needs of simply the other. -[3253.74 --> 3260.74] During this pandemic, it's become so easy for us to forget about the other. -[3260.74 --> 3265.74] Your brother or your sister in Christ who you don't see on Sunday anymore. -[3265.74 --> 3270.74] That co-worker of yours that only works from home now, you haven't seen them in a year. -[3270.74 --> 3276.74] That friend you have who just happens to be in a different school cohort than you are in. -[3276.74 --> 3283.74] Are we worried about our own desires, our own pleasures over them? -[3283.74 --> 3287.74] Well, what kind of pleasures, you might be asking? -[3287.74 --> 3292.74] In her book, Glittering Vices, the author Rebecca Conondyke de Young, -[3292.74 --> 3298.74] she focuses on the seven deadly sins and what they actually look like now in the 21st century. -[3298.74 --> 3303.74] Now, all of these sins, all of these sins, they're desires of the flesh. -[3303.74 --> 3308.74] They're pleasures that we seek, provide us with fulfillment in this life. -[3308.74 --> 3313.74] They are vices that cause us to commit adultery against our Savior. -[3313.74 --> 3315.74] Take, for example, vanity. -[3315.74 --> 3320.74] How much time do we spend in our lives comparing ourselves to others? -[3320.74 --> 3325.74] How much time do we spend on our own looks, our own clothes, our own selfies, -[3325.74 --> 3333.74] to make sure that others see us as important or having purpose or of value or just beautiful? -[3333.74 --> 3338.74] What kind of likes or shares or comments do we chase on social media -[3338.74 --> 3342.74] in order to feel this sense of pleasure in our lives? -[3342.74 --> 3345.74] Or greed. -[3345.74 --> 3348.74] We often mask greed with independence. -[3348.74 --> 3350.74] We'll call it independence often. -[3350.74 --> 3353.74] We can be guilty of thinking we do not need God because we've got it covered. -[3353.74 --> 3355.74] We look at our life and we say, -[3355.74 --> 3361.74] it's my job, my car, my house, my yard, my food, my dog, my savings. -[3361.74 --> 3364.74] And we forget that it all belongs to God. -[3364.74 --> 3369.74] It's not just the needing more that's greed. -[3369.74 --> 3375.74] It's the feeling that I've obtained what I have by me doing my work myself. -[3375.74 --> 3378.74] Me, me, me. -[3378.74 --> 3382.74] That is what greed looks like. -[3382.74 --> 3385.74] Or we use food to fulfill our selfish desires. -[3385.74 --> 3386.74] Gluttony. -[3386.74 --> 3387.74] We're too stressed. -[3387.74 --> 3388.74] We eat too much. -[3388.74 --> 3391.74] We overindulge because we've worked really hard and we deserve this. -[3391.74 --> 3396.74] Or on the flip side, we don't eat because we want to consume people's compliments for how we look. -[3396.74 --> 3401.74] We desire the pleasure of our own looks, of our own body, and so we starve ourselves. -[3401.74 --> 3403.74] It's also gluttony. -[3403.74 --> 3406.74] The same side, or the different side of the same coin. -[3406.74 --> 3409.74] But it's not just food that we overindulge in. -[3409.74 --> 3417.74] It's other things like Netflix or Instagram or fantasy sports or whatever else fills the boredom gaps in our lives and brings us pleasure. -[3417.74 --> 3418.74] Lust. -[3418.74 --> 3427.74] We desire control or attention or pleasure, and so many have turned to pornography to fulfill that desire. -[3427.74 --> 3430.74] But it's more than sex we lust after. -[3430.74 --> 3431.74] It's power. -[3431.74 --> 3432.74] It's position. -[3432.74 --> 3434.74] It's prominence in this world. -[3434.74 --> 3439.74] It's rising the social ladder so that others may view us as better than maybe even we are. -[3439.74 --> 3442.74] Lust is inward focus. -[3442.74 --> 3446.74] Lust is pleasure-driven. -[3446.74 --> 3447.74] Wrath. -[3447.74 --> 3448.74] Wrath. -[3448.74 --> 3451.74] De Young, she writes, I love this quote so much. -[3451.74 --> 3453.74] De Young writes about wrath. -[3453.74 --> 3461.74] She writes, being angry is like drinking rat poison and waiting for that rat to die. -[3461.74 --> 3462.74] I think that is awesome. -[3462.74 --> 3467.74] Anger tears us up inside and solves nothing. -[3467.74 --> 3474.74] And yet anger brings us pleasure because when we're angry, we aren't the problem. -[3474.74 --> 3478.74] The other person is, and that makes us feel all right. -[3478.74 --> 3479.74] Envy. -[3479.74 --> 3483.74] It's wanting what other people have, but more than that, it's placing your own desires first. -[3483.74 --> 3488.74] It's making sure you're better than the others and placing your own wants and needs above a person. -[3488.74 --> 3491.74] Envy is the pursuit of pleasure. -[3491.74 --> 3494.74] It's the opposite of love. -[3494.74 --> 3496.74] And finally, sloth. -[3496.74 --> 3498.74] Sloth is not simply laziness. -[3498.74 --> 3499.74] Sloth. -[3499.74 --> 3504.74] Being slothful is willfully deciding not to do something of value. -[3504.74 --> 3506.74] Not to do something of value. -[3506.74 --> 3509.74] That means we can spend all day, we can be super busy. -[3509.74 --> 3511.74] We can spend all day doing meaningless tasks for ourselves. -[3511.74 --> 3516.74] We can fill our candles, our calendars up with selfish ambitions and still be slothful -[3516.74 --> 3523.74] because we've only thought of ourselves and our own selfish desires. -[3523.74 --> 3524.74] The downer right now. -[3524.74 --> 3526.74] We're going to get to the good news, I promise. -[3526.74 --> 3528.74] But David Platt sums this up so nicely. -[3528.74 --> 3529.74] He says this. -[3529.74 --> 3530.74] He says, -[3530.74 --> 3536.74] In our culture and churches, we have sought after the pleasures of this world in sexuality, -[3536.74 --> 3538.74] impurity and debauchery. -[3538.74 --> 3543.74] We have satisfied our flesh with the things of this world more than possess, with more possessions, -[3543.74 --> 3546.74] nicer car, bigger houses and better luxuries. -[3546.74 --> 3550.74] We've pursued positions, praises and popularity. -[3550.74 --> 3556.74] And his point is that we've lived for what is best for us in this world. -[3556.74 --> 3563.74] By doing so, we've cheated on the very God whom we've declared to be faithful to. -[3563.74 --> 3565.74] That's the question for us today. -[3565.74 --> 3567.74] How are we cheating on God? -[3567.74 --> 3570.74] That's a question for us each to ponder. -[3570.74 --> 3576.74] But, here's the good transition. -[3576.74 --> 3578.74] The Bible is awesome. -[3578.74 --> 3584.74] Because while we are all no doubt guilty of pursuing selfish pleasures, -[3584.74 --> 3589.74] James, he offers us a solution, which is just really nice of James. -[3589.74 --> 3594.74] The cure to hedonism is humbling yourself. -[3594.74 --> 3599.74] If you read verses 6 through 10 of our text, you hear James call us into action. -[3599.74 --> 3600.74] He says, -[3600.74 --> 3602.74] Submit yourselves to God. -[3602.74 --> 3604.74] Resist the devil. -[3604.74 --> 3605.74] Go near to God. -[3605.74 --> 3609.74] Wash your hands and purify your hearts of sin. -[3609.74 --> 3614.74] Humble yourself before God. -[3614.74 --> 3616.74] James quotes Proverbs 3, 34. -[3616.74 --> 3622.74] God opposes the proud, but shows grace to the humble. -[3622.74 --> 3626.74] Jesus says something very similar in Matthew 23, 12. -[3626.74 --> 3630.74] And Peter even reiterates the same thing in 1 Peter 5, verse 5. -[3630.74 --> 3638.74] God opposes the proud, but shows grace to the humble. -[3638.74 --> 3640.74] First, God opposes the proud. -[3640.74 --> 3644.74] Well, he does so because in part, being proud is resistance. -[3644.74 --> 3649.74] The proud resist the truths of God because they believe they understand better. -[3649.74 --> 3653.74] The proud resist the laws of God because they have their own motivations. -[3653.74 --> 3661.74] The proud resist the gifts of God because they have obtained all things that they possess. -[3661.74 --> 3664.74] It's no wonder God resists the proud. -[3664.74 --> 3668.74] What God desires is humility. -[3668.74 --> 3673.74] God gives grace to the humble. -[3673.74 --> 3678.74] To humble ourselves before God means we need to recognize the desires of the flesh. -[3678.74 --> 3682.74] We need to acknowledge that sin is easily entangling us. -[3682.74 --> 3684.74] We need to confess. -[3684.74 --> 3690.74] That's why James says you must change your laughter into mourning and your joy into gloom. -[3690.74 --> 3693.74] That's a weird line. -[3693.74 --> 3697.74] Now, he doesn't say this because life is only serious and there's no room for joy. -[3697.74 --> 3701.74] He says this in the context of this passage, in the context of sin, -[3701.74 --> 3705.74] or in the context of us desiring earthly pleasures. -[3705.74 --> 3710.74] As Douglas Moo points out, James' insistence that we turn our joy into gloom, -[3710.74 --> 3716.74] it might sound strange in light of Paul's injunction to rejoice in the Lord always. -[3716.74 --> 3724.74] But the joy Paul speaks of is the joy that comes when we realize that our sins are forgiven in Christ. -[3724.74 --> 3733.74] The joy James warns us about is the fleeting and superficial joy that comes when we indulge in sin. -[3733.74 --> 3737.74] We should not praise the sin that we commit. -[3737.74 --> 3742.74] We should not bluff off the things that we desire. -[3742.74 --> 3747.74] We must humbly turn to Christ with our sins, not rejoicing over them, -[3747.74 --> 3751.74] but with mourning in our hearts for the wrongs we have done. -[3751.74 --> 3752.74] We aren't to minimize. -[3752.74 --> 3754.74] We aren't to forget. -[3754.74 --> 3757.74] We're to bow. -[3757.74 --> 3762.74] And when we do that, by the power of Christ, we are forgiven. -[3762.74 --> 3766.74] Christ, who was born into this world to redeem it. -[3766.74 --> 3769.74] And though he was tempted in this world like you and like I, -[3769.74 --> 3775.74] the desires of the flesh from the devil, they did not cause him to stumble. -[3775.74 --> 3780.74] He walked into the city of God where he was arrested for crimes he did not commit. -[3780.74 --> 3786.74] And he suffered pain that he did not deserve. -[3786.74 --> 3792.74] He died a cruel death on the cross that was meant for you and was meant for me. -[3792.74 --> 3798.74] And then three days later, he rose again from the grave, defeating sin and death. -[3798.74 --> 3802.74] And he atoned for the sins that we commit each and every day. -[3802.74 --> 3807.74] And he did all of this in humility. -[3807.74 --> 3815.74] He humbly took all of that sin that you and I commit, all of the sins of the world. -[3815.74 --> 3818.74] And in his humility, he bore it. -[3818.74 --> 3821.74] And he suffered under the weight of it. -[3821.74 --> 3824.74] And he died with all of it. -[3824.74 --> 3828.74] And then he rose to defeat it. -[3828.74 --> 3837.74] Christ's humility in taking on our sin is how he defeated it. -[3837.74 --> 3845.74] And that is the reason we can humbly bring the desires of our heart to Christ. -[3845.74 --> 3848.74] In Christ's humility, he defeated sin. -[3848.74 --> 3856.74] And in our humility, we can keep bringing it to him because his grace is enough. -[3856.74 --> 3858.74] In fact, it's more than enough. -[3858.74 --> 3863.74] No matter what you're carrying today, know that he has mercy and grace in abundance for you. -[3863.74 --> 3871.74] No matter what we forfeit, when we pursue selfish pleasures, we can never forfeit our salvation. -[3871.74 --> 3876.74] For there is always more grace. -[3876.74 --> 3881.74] We just need to be humble and bring it to Christ. -[3881.74 --> 3884.74] What does humility look like? -[3884.74 --> 3888.74] C.S. Lewis defines humility in this way. -[3888.74 --> 3891.74] He says, humility is not thinking less of yourself. -[3891.74 --> 3894.74] Thinking of yourself less. -[3894.74 --> 3901.74] We don't think less of ourselves by being humble. -[3901.74 --> 3906.74] Because we can be confident in who we are in Christ. -[3906.74 --> 3909.74] Humility is not thinking less of ourselves. -[3909.74 --> 3913.74] We can be confident in ourselves and our salvation in Christ. -[3913.74 --> 3915.74] It's not thinking less of ourselves. -[3915.74 --> 3919.74] It's thinking of ourselves less. -[3921.74 --> 3924.74] It's thinking of the other. -[3924.74 --> 3926.74] And that's full circle, church. -[3926.74 --> 3929.74] God calls us to humility. -[3929.74 --> 3934.74] To move away from seeking the earthly pleasures that our flesh draws us to. -[3934.74 --> 3937.74] And to think of ourselves less. -[3937.74 --> 3939.74] Think of God more. -[3939.74 --> 3941.74] Think of the other more. -[3941.74 --> 3947.74] Then we can start to live the lives that resemble what Christ is looking for in his bride. -[3947.74 --> 3951.74] Not a checklist of do's and don'ts. -[3951.74 --> 3954.74] But a life lived for others. -[3954.74 --> 3957.74] A life lived for God. -[3958.74 --> 3961.74] A life thinking of ourselves less. -[3963.74 --> 3969.74] When we do that, we become a witness to God's humble and powerful grace and salvation to the entire world. -[3969.74 --> 3979.74] When we strive to stop chasing our own pleasures, our own desires, and we start thinking of ourselves less, we will start to think of God and others more. -[3980.74 --> 3983.74] And thus bear witness to God's kingdom here on earth. -[3983.74 --> 3987.74] I want to conclude with this. -[3987.74 --> 3992.74] Our text ties a nice bow on things with verses 11 and 12. -[3992.74 --> 3999.74] Now the first half of our text we looked at today, it emphatically highlighted the root cause of our adultery with God. -[3999.74 --> 4004.74] And the second half of our text showed God's calling us to humility. -[4004.74 --> 4013.74] And this third and final half of our text, and I checked the math and it holds out, it directs us to James' grand point all along throughout his entire book. -[4015.74 --> 4025.74] James 4, 11 to 12 says, and I'm summarizing here, that we are not to slander against anyone, for if we speak poorly of others, we judge them and the law. -[4025.74 --> 4027.74] If we judge the law, we do not keep the law. -[4027.74 --> 4032.74] And therefore, we both minimize the law and become judged by it. -[4032.74 --> 4034.74] A lot of words. -[4034.74 --> 4036.74] What James is saying here once again is this. -[4036.74 --> 4041.74] He's highlighting that we need to be more than simply hearers of the word. -[4041.74 --> 4043.74] We need to be doers. -[4043.74 --> 4049.74] If we go out and speak poorly of someone, if we gossip behind someone's back, we tear them down. -[4049.74 --> 4060.74] If someone is doing wrong and we take that wrong they are doing and slander them to others, we're just as guilty as the one who did wrong. -[4061.74 --> 4063.74] Then we are hearers but not doers. -[4063.74 --> 4071.74] However strong our view of God's law might be, it's a failure if we don't actually do it. -[4071.74 --> 4077.74] And it shows the world that we, in fact, do not put any weight behind that law. -[4077.74 --> 4086.74] So by speaking poorly of a neighbor or a brother or a sister or anyone, we judge that person to a certain standard. -[4086.74 --> 4090.74] By slandering them, we fall below that standard that we're holding them to. -[4090.74 --> 4093.74] Love does not beget slander. -[4093.74 --> 4096.74] Knowing the law does not mean we get to ignore it. -[4096.74 --> 4106.74] Once again, we see James' understanding of Christianity as something whose reality is defined by testing by the measure of obedience. -[4106.74 --> 4111.74] We must be hearers and viewers. -[4111.74 --> 4120.74] And so, as we conclude now, ask yourself and ask your small groups or your care groups or your family or someone you love these questions this week. -[4120.74 --> 4129.74] What pleasures do I seek which cause me to be adulterous, my Lord? -[4129.74 --> 4135.74] When have I slandered someone's name and how can I make that right? -[4135.74 --> 4139.74] Finally, how can I humbly come before God? -[4139.74 --> 4142.74] Think of others this week. -[4142.74 --> 4144.74] Let's be encouraged by the words of verse 10 of our text. -[4144.74 --> 4148.74] It is not us who have to work hard to make sure we're lifted up. -[4148.74 --> 4154.74] As Christians, we don't need to subscribe to the mantra of our culture which says, look out for number one. -[4154.74 --> 4167.74] We can trust that if we humbly go before our God and we trust in him and we live lives thinking less of ourselves and more of others, we will be exalted by God. -[4167.74 --> 4169.74] We do the obeying. -[4169.74 --> 4171.74] He does the lifting. -[4171.74 --> 4174.74] Let's pray. -[4174.74 --> 4185.74] Lord, our Father in heaven, we are grateful for this challenge, this conviction in this text. -[4185.74 --> 4195.74] Lord, in this world there are so many pleasures that we are drawn to, so many things that pull us towards them, so many things that we want because we think that will make our life better. -[4199.74 --> 4201.74] God, stir in our hearts. -[4201.74 --> 4209.74] Stir in our hearts to teach us what those things are and give us the strength, give us the power, give us the courage to say no. -[4209.74 --> 4216.74] And not just say no, but God, give us the humility to come before you and lay them at your feet. -[4216.74 --> 4218.74] For Lord, we know your grace is enough. -[4218.74 --> 4221.74] Your mercy is more than we could ever imagine. -[4221.74 --> 4227.74] May we be humble enough to bring those to you to confess what it is that our hearts are longing for. -[4227.74 --> 4234.74] And may we think of ourselves less and focus on you and on others more. -[4234.74 --> 4246.74] As we go about our days, our weeks, the rest of this year, the rest of our lives, we pray that that becomes a rhythm for all of us. -[4246.74 --> 4263.74] So, we are grateful for your son, for his death and resurrection, for his life on this earth, for his humility in taking on the sins of this world. -[4263.74 --> 4269.74] May that give us the strength and humility to bring our sins to you. -[4270.74 --> 4272.74] In your name we pray. Amen. -[4272.74 --> 4274.74] To remember, His best wishes. -[4274.74 --> 4275.74] So, we lift your hands over the tongue to begin with him. -[4275.74 --> 4280.74] Let this alone ech anything to our mind, -[4280.74 --> 4281.74] by tying who comes with you will hear the children. -[4281.74 --> 4282.74] 2. -[4282.74 --> 4283.74] These are the children of children who take us out to be showed – -[4283.74 --> 4285.74] Our children of children whose children knit within the night they night, -[4285.74 --> 4287.74] We pray that the children of children in friends as their hearts are included in the�eda, -[4287.74 --> 4289.74] For their children dedrate, for their children of their children, -[4289.74 --> 4291.74] The children of children Oscar who take us, -[4291.74 --> 4293.74] Joseph Dom,令 vaccines Zac容易� boy and balance those other ones as their charities to us. -[4293.74 --> 4295.74] The children of children of children who take us with the shoes thatpop, -[4295.74 --> 4296.74] Greek of children in their muscular Strong〇 city of children of children, -[4296.74 --> 4297.74] Soğini and the apostles have to be food during lifestyle and theizing up our lives! -[4297.74 --> 4306.82] We see the time at night, our hearts in Christian love. -[4307.70 --> 4316.74] The fellowship of kindred minds is like to that above. -[4316.74 --> 4328.82] Before our Father's throne, we pour our ardent prayers. -[4328.82 --> 4339.44] Our fears, our hopes, our names, our ones, our comforts and our cares. -[4339.44 --> 4350.74] Share each other's parts, our mutual burdens give. -[4351.54 --> 4361.52] And often for each other flows the symbolizing tear. -[4361.52 --> 4375.24] When we are solid apart, it gives us inward pain. -[4376.10 --> 4386.52] But we shall still be joined in hope and hope to meet again. -[4386.52 --> 4399.40] This glorious hope revives, our courage on the way. -[4399.40 --> 4410.94] While each in expectation is at home to see the pain. -[4410.94 --> 4418.56] From sorrows, toil, and pain. -[4419.76 --> 4425.66] And soon we shall be free. -[4425.66 --> 4438.34] And perfect love and passion break through all eternity. -[4438.34 --> 4451.00] And so brothers and sisters, please remember today that we are meeting after this service -[4451.00 --> 4452.70] in about a half hour over Zoom. -[4452.78 --> 4457.12] We'd love to see your faces, hear about your last week or month or however long it has been. -[4457.20 --> 4459.86] So please click that link and join us for that. -[4460.22 --> 4463.46] And in the heart of thinking of ourselves less and thinking of others more, -[4463.72 --> 4466.76] I invite you to once again just think about how you can serve this church. -[4466.76 --> 4469.46] We are once again looking for elders and deacons. -[4469.78 --> 4471.72] It's a ministry that is focused on others. -[4472.12 --> 4475.44] If that is something that you are feeling called to or pulled towards -[4475.44 --> 4478.22] or someone is in fact encouraging you for, please think about that. -[4478.30 --> 4479.92] Pray about that and let us know. -[4479.98 --> 4482.22] And finally, free tag, you're it. -[4482.30 --> 4484.42] That's the easiest way you can go and think of someone. -[4484.56 --> 4486.34] And don't just think about the people you know well. -[4486.42 --> 4489.18] Maybe think about that church member who you don't know that well. -[4489.52 --> 4490.80] Drop off a little treat at their door. -[4490.86 --> 4492.04] Let them know that you're thinking about them. -[4492.04 --> 4498.26] And now, please receive God's parting blessing, the priestly blessing found from Numbers 6. -[4499.54 --> 4501.54] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[4502.24 --> 4505.84] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[4506.44 --> 4511.70] The Lord turn his face toward you and give you his peace. -[4512.70 --> 4513.06] Amen. -[4513.06 --> 4536.66] The noise of hope is life and end. -[4537.32 --> 4540.98] Christ alone, Christ alone. -[4540.98 --> 4544.74] God is our only command -[4544.74 --> 4549.88] The latter souls to Him belong -[4549.88 --> 4554.32] Who holds our days within His hand -[4554.32 --> 4558.74] What comes apart from His command -[4558.74 --> 4563.28] And what will keep us to the end -[4563.28 --> 4568.52] The love of Christ in which we stand -[4568.52 --> 4574.56] Oh, sing hallelujah -[4574.56 --> 4578.84] The whole city's eternal -[4578.84 --> 4583.28] Oh, sing hallelujah -[4583.28 --> 4587.10] Now again we confess -[4587.10 --> 4591.06] Christ our hope in life and death -[4591.06 --> 4601.10] But truth can cause the troubled soul -[4601.10 --> 4606.42] God is good, God is good -[4606.42 --> 4610.10] Where is His grace and goodness stored -[4610.10 --> 4615.52] In our great Redeemer's blood -[4615.52 --> 4619.94] Who holds our faith when fears arise -[4619.94 --> 4624.36] Who stands above the stormy trial -[4624.36 --> 4628.52] Who sends the waves that bring us high -[4629.06 --> 4635.56] Unto the shore the rock of Christ -[4635.56 --> 4640.40] Oh, sing hallelujah -[4640.40 --> 4644.82] Our hope sings eternal -[4644.82 --> 4649.32] Oh, sing hallelujah -[4649.32 --> 4653.26] Now and ever we confess -[4653.26 --> 4657.60] Christ our hope in life and death -[4657.60 --> 4664.60] Christ our hope in life and death -[4664.60 --> 4668.46] Unto the grave what will we sing -[4668.46 --> 4673.50] Christ He lives, Christ He lives -[4673.50 --> 4678.44] And what reward will heaven bring -[4678.44 --> 4683.46] Everlasting life with Him -[4683.46 --> 4687.92] Then we will rise to meet the Lord -[4687.92 --> 4692.38] Then sin and death will be destroyed -[4692.38 --> 4697.40] And we will be in endless joy -[4697.40 --> 4704.30] When Christ is ours forevermore -[4704.30 --> 4709.14] All sing hallelujah -[4709.14 --> 4713.54] Our hope sings eternal -[4713.54 --> 4718.04] All sing hallelujah -[4718.04 --> 4722.10] Now and ever we confess -[4722.10 --> 4725.94] Christ our hope in life and death -[4725.94 --> 4730.26] All sing hallelujah -[4730.26 --> 4734.92] Our hope sings eternal -[4734.92 --> 4734.96] Our hope sings eternal -[4734.96 --> 4739.50] Oh, sing hallelujah -[4739.50 --> 4743.68] Now and ever we confess -[4743.68 --> 4747.64] Christ our hope in life and death -[4747.64 --> 4751.50] Now and ever we confess -[4751.50 --> 4756.72] Christ our hope in life and death -[4756.72 --> 4763.96] There is a light that burns in the darkness -[4763.96 --> 4771.22] There is a hope that washes the fear away -[4771.22 --> 4778.56] There is a peace that settles around us -[4778.56 --> 4785.46] It is your love that sets our hearts ablaze -[4785.46 --> 4786.46] There is a peace that settles around us -[4786.46 --> 4787.46] Oh, sing hallelujah -[4787.46 --> 4792.46] There is a peace that settles around us -[4792.46 --> 4798.46] There is a peace that settles around us -[4798.46 --> 4799.46] There is a peace that settles around us -[4799.46 --> 4805.46] There is a peace that settles around us -[4805.46 --> 4811.46] There is a peace that settles around us -[4811.46 --> 4817.46] Oh, it is your love that sets our hearts ablaze -[4817.46 --> 4824.46] Father, we're on our knees -[4824.46 --> 4831.46] With every heartbeat we bring you this offering -[4831.46 --> 4834.46] Lord, come and fill this place -[4834.46 --> 4838.46] Father, we're crying out -[4838.46 --> 4839.46] Spirit, we're crying out -[4839.46 --> 4841.46] Spirit, we need you now -[4841.46 --> 4842.46] Spirit, we need you now -[4842.46 --> 4845.46] Glorious love surrounds us -[4845.46 --> 4847.46] Lord, come and fill this place -[4847.46 --> 4853.46] There is a King that reigns in victory -[4853.46 --> 4855.46] There is a King that reigns in victory -[4855.46 --> 4856.46] There is a mercy strong enough to save -[4856.46 --> 4860.46] There is a King that reigns in victory -[4860.46 --> 4866.46] There is a mercy strong enough to save -[4866.46 --> 4871.46] We feel the rise that part from the ashes -[4871.46 --> 4872.46] There is a love that overcame the grave -[4872.46 --> 4878.46] There is a love that overcame the grave -[4878.46 --> 4885.46] There is a love that overcame the grave -[4885.46 --> 4892.46] There is a love that overcame the grave -[4892.46 --> 4894.46] Father, we're on our knees -[4894.46 --> 4900.46] With every heartbeat we bring you this offering -[4900.46 --> 4902.46] Oh -[4930.46 --> 4952.44] I worship you. -[4952.44 --> 4961.36] I'll worship you, I'll worship you always, God. -[4961.36 --> 4973.54] And I will worship you, I'll worship you, I'll worship you always. -[4973.54 --> 4988.10] And I will worship you, I'll worship you, I'll worship you always. -[4988.10 --> 5001.92] And I will worship you, I will worship you, I will worship you always. -[5001.92 --> 5016.92] And I will worship you, I will worship you, I will worship you always. -[5019.92 --> 5030.06] Father, we're on our knees, with every heartbeat we bring you this suffering. -[5031.92 --> 5034.46] Lord, come and fill this place. -[5034.46 --> 5037.78] Father, we're crying out. -[5038.26 --> 5041.46] Spirit, we need you now. -[5041.92 --> 5046.46] Glory is the rest of us. -[5047.42 --> 5058.64] And I will worship you, I will worship you, I will worship you always. -[5058.64 --> 5072.98] And I will worship you, I will worship you, I will worship you always. -[5072.98 --> 5087.32] And I will worship you, I will worship you, I will worship you always. -[5087.32 --> 5105.70] And I will worship you, I will worship you always. -[5105.70 --> 5135.68] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship Service - April 25 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship Service - April 25 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c735010799b8f35b3ac669de5ad565c84b1abbbd..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship Service - April 25 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,82 +0,0 @@ -• Need for support and guidance in difficult times -• Reference to Psalm 23 and its themes of faith and protection -• Repetition of the phrase "I just need you" addressed to a higher power or God -• Praise and worship of God, including references to Jesus' name as powerful and holy -• Expressions of adoration and reverence for God's character and attributes -• Service will be different today due to inclusion of GEMS through video -• Counselor Courtney will share about the GEMS program -• Youth for tonight has been canceled and will resume next week with Real Talk -• Encouragement to treat others well and continue doing good work in community -• Worship service begins, including a greeting from God and singing -• Worship and praise to God -• Confession of sins and guilt -• Assurance of forgiveness and new life in Christ -• Praise for amazing love and sacrifice of Jesus -• Recitation of scriptural truths about forgiveness and salvation -• Declaration of identity as children of God, forgiven and accepted. -• The speaker praises Jesus as their King and expresses amazement at His love. -• The speaker prepares for children's worship time and comments on how much the kids have grown in a year. -• The speaker shares the memory verse from John 3:16 with the help of Nora. -• The speaker introduces their video and shows it to the kids. -• The speaker plans to share a story about fish and sheep, but instead takes the kids on a field trip to Milner Valley Cheese goat farm. -• Description of a visit to a barn with goats and sheep -• Story about Jesus showing himself to the disciples after his resurrection -• The story involves Jesus appearing to the disciples while they are fishing and having them catch a large number of fish -• Jesus serves breakfast to the disciples using some of the fish they caught -• A conversation between Jesus and Peter in which Jesus asks Peter if he loves him three times and charges him with feeding his lambs -• Story about Jesus asking Peter three times if he loves him -• Reference to Peter denying Jesus three times before his crucifixion -• Jesus' encouragement of Peter to "feed my sheep" as a sign of redemption -• Discussion of the GEMS program (Girls Everywhere Meeting the Savior) and its mission -• The importance of following Jesus' example in relationships -• Bible verses from John 15:15 and Micah 6:8 emphasized the importance of loving God and others justly -• Overcoming heartbreak, isolation, and sorrow through faith in Jesus -• God's faithfulness and forgiveness in relationship to sin -• The GEMS Ministry and its use of donations for curriculum development and spreading their message -• Upcoming offerings for New Ground ministry and prayerfully considering supporting them -• Congregational prayer with acknowledgments and announcements of new births in the community -• The speaker discusses the challenges and difficulties of living in a world affected by COVID-19 -• Variations in how people are experiencing symptoms, new births being celebrated despite restrictions, and the impact on relationships and mental health -• Gratitude for God's care and plan during difficult times, with doubts about God's presence and wisdom -• Prayer for those suffering from COVID-19, hospital professionals, and leaders making decisions -• Request for strength and guidance to navigate challenges and be a source of comfort and support -• Thankfulness for the abundance of blessings in life despite difficulties, including nature, freedom, and relationships -• The speaker reflects on a quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson about friendship -• The idea is connected to John 15:15, which says Jesus has called his followers friends and made known everything he learned from his Father -• Having Jesus as your friend makes you a better friend to others -• The speaker discusses the challenges of being a kid today, including the impact of technology on relationships and mental health -• They express concern about kids being mean and adults not setting good examples -• The challenges of being a kid in today's hyper-connected culture, including feelings of loneliness and isolation -• The pressure to curate a perfect online image and the negative effects on mental health, particularly for kids -• Statistics on the prevalence of loneliness among children (1 in 4, 1 in 3 girls) -• The impact of social distancing during the pandemic on relationships and community -• Jesus' message of love and connection to those who feel lost or alone, offering hope and redemption through faith -• The concept of faith as a gift that binds us to God and connects us to each other -• A wrong image of God as an angry taskmaster vs. the loving Father who sent Jesus as our friend -• The idea that faith is recognizing our need for God and receiving His love and life. -• Tracing an outline of a hand to represent Jesus' pierced hand -• Writing the word "one" in the circle, representing God's one love for us -• Identifying Jesus as our number one friend who will never leave or fail us -• Defining Christian friendship vs. friendships with Christians -• Five ways to turn friendships with Christians into Christian friendships -• Jesus' command to love one another as he loves -• Christian friendships serve each other in humility and love -• Praying for friends and confessing sins to each other -• Accepting each other for who we are, as Christ accepted us -• Being kind, compassionate, and forgiving towards others -• God's presence and blessing for the week -• Going as a Jesus friend to others -• The blessing of God for protection, support, and guidance -• Evangelism and declaring the word of the Lord -• Trials and darkness, but also hope and salvation -• The return of the Lord, riding on clouds and shining like the sun -• Proclaiming the year of jubilee and salvation coming from God -• Love and longing for someone -• Feeling consumed by this person -• Desire to be with them always -• Needing forgiveness and redemption -• Wanting to be born again -• Seeking God's guidance and forgiveness -• The speaker expresses a deep need for God's forgiveness -• Forgiveness is compared to various pleasant experiences: honey on the lips, a symphony, and holy water on the skin -• The speaker states that only God's forgiveness makes them want to change \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship Service - April 25 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship Service - April 25 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 19b4baa5ff571c38f4b0bd5643f3e54e7f5af9eb..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship Service - April 25 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1212 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.00] I just need you -[2.00 --> 12.00] Lord, I need you -[12.00 --> 20.10] Yeah, I just need you -[20.10 --> 22.78] Yeah, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death -[22.78 --> 26.30] I will fear no evil, for thou art with me -[26.30 --> 28.30] Thy rod and thy staff -[28.30 --> 31.24] They comfort me when I'm beat down, broken -[31.24 --> 33.54] Hold my heart when it's split wide open -[33.54 --> 35.80] Turn these eyes to my soul protector -[35.80 --> 38.38] And break the will of this born defector -[38.38 --> 41.94] Cause all I know, all I know -[41.94 --> 45.82] Is you're my only hope -[45.82 --> 49.62] When I'm up, when I'm down -[49.62 --> 51.86] When the wolves come around -[51.86 --> 54.24] When my feet hit the ground -[54.24 --> 57.14] I just need, I just need you -[57.14 --> 58.86] On my darkest days -[58.86 --> 61.12] When I'm losing faith -[61.12 --> 63.60] No, it ain't gonna change -[63.60 --> 66.38] I just need, I just need you -[66.38 --> 75.82] Lord, I need you -[75.82 --> 87.14] When you pull me closer -[87.14 --> 88.96] I come to life -[88.96 --> 91.76] When you pull me closer -[91.76 --> 93.58] I come to life -[93.58 --> 96.36] When you pull me closer -[96.36 --> 98.18] I come to life -[98.18 --> 102.74] When you pull me closer, I come to life -[102.74 --> 105.14] When I'm up, when I'm down -[105.14 --> 109.70] When I'm down -[109.70 --> 114.64] On my darkest days -[114.64 --> 119.08] No, it ain't gon' change -[119.08 --> 122.00] Oh, Lord, I need you -[122.00 --> 123.56] When I'm up, when I'm down -[123.56 --> 125.90] When the world's come around -[125.90 --> 127.74] When I'm down -[127.74 --> 131.22] Yeah, I need, I need, I need, I need you -[131.22 --> 132.68] On my darkest days -[132.68 --> 134.40] When I'm down -[134.40 --> 134.96] When I'm down -[134.96 --> 135.68] When I'm down -[135.68 --> 139.60] Ain't no way this day gon' change -[139.60 --> 141.62] It's you, I need -[141.62 --> 143.62] It's you, I need -[143.62 --> 146.10] On my darkest days -[146.10 --> 147.68] When I'm losing faith -[147.68 --> 150.82] I need you, I need -[150.82 --> 153.12] It's you, I need -[153.12 --> 155.24] Every single day -[155.24 --> 157.16] Every breath I take -[157.16 --> 158.44] I need you -[158.44 --> 163.28] I need you -[163.28 --> 167.16] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[167.16 --> 197.14] Thank you. -[197.16 --> 209.88] To sing a new song to you who sits on heaven's mercy seat. -[212.38 --> 222.78] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, holy or mercy. -[227.16 --> 238.16] To sing a new song to you who sits on heaven's mercy seat. -[238.16 --> 247.30] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty. -[248.06 --> 252.82] Who was and is and is to come. -[252.82 --> 261.78] With all creation I sing praise to the King of kings. -[262.20 --> 269.00] You are my everything and I will adore you. -[269.00 --> 277.00] I will adore you. -[277.00 --> 306.98] I will adore you. -[307.00 --> 309.10] God bless you. -[329.24 --> 336.98] I will adore you. -[336.98 --> 338.98] I told you -[338.98 --> 348.98] You are holy -[348.98 --> 356.98] Struggle wonder -[356.98 --> 359.98] All struggle wonder -[359.98 --> 365.98] At the mention of your name -[365.98 --> 370.98] Jesus your name is power -[370.98 --> 374.98] Bread for living water -[374.98 --> 379.98] Son, tomorrow's mystery -[379.98 --> 384.98] Holy, holy, holy -[384.98 --> 388.98] The Son of God Almighty -[388.98 --> 393.98] Who was and is and is to come -[393.98 --> 398.98] With all creation I sing -[398.98 --> 402.98] Praise to the King of kings -[402.98 --> 404.98] You are my everything -[404.98 --> 408.98] And I will adore you -[408.98 --> 412.98] Holy, holy, holy -[412.98 --> 413.98] Holy, holy -[413.98 --> 415.98] Is the Lord God Almighty -[415.98 --> 421.98] Who was and is and is to come -[421.98 --> 423.98] Holy, holy -[423.98 --> 427.98] With all creation I sing -[427.98 --> 429.98] Praise to the King of kings -[429.98 --> 432.98] You are my everything -[432.98 --> 434.98] You are my everything -[434.98 --> 438.98] And I will adore you -[438.98 --> 445.98] I can hold you on -[445.98 --> 447.98] Holy love -[447.98 --> 448.98] Holy, holy -[448.98 --> 449.98] Holy, holy -[449.98 --> 450.98] All creation sings -[450.98 --> 452.98] Holy, holy -[452.98 --> 454.98] Holy, holy -[454.98 --> 456.98] Holy, holy -[456.98 --> 457.98] Holy, holy -[457.98 --> 458.98] You are holy -[458.98 --> 459.98] You are holy -[459.98 --> 460.98] Holy -[460.98 --> 461.98] Holy, holy -[461.98 --> 463.98] Holy, holy -[463.98 --> 466.98] Holy, holy -[466.98 --> 484.98] And if you doubt -[485.98 --> 487.98] Until this world is taken -[487.98 --> 517.96] Thank you. -[517.98 --> 547.96] Thank you. -[547.98 --> 577.96] Thank you. -[577.98 --> 579.98] Thank you. -[579.98 --> 581.98] Thank you. -[581.98 --> 583.98] Thank you. -[583.98 --> 585.98] Thank you. -[585.98 --> 587.98] Thank you. -[587.98 --> 589.98] Thank you. -[589.98 --> 591.98] Thank you. -[591.98 --> 593.98] Thank you. -[593.98 --> 595.98] Thank you. -[595.98 --> 597.98] Thank you. -[597.98 --> 598.98] Thank you. -[599.98 --> 603.98] Thank you. -[603.98 --> 613.26] Feel the darkness shaking, all the dead are coming back to life, back to life. -[613.98 --> 622.16] Hear the song awaken, our creation singing we're alive, cause you're alive. -[623.24 --> 627.94] You called me out of the grave, you called me into the light. -[627.94 --> 632.26] You called my name and in my heart came alive. -[632.26 --> 642.06] Your love is greater, your love is stronger, your love awakens, awakens, awakens me. -[642.26 --> 651.92] Your love is greater, your love is stronger, your love awakens, awakens, awakens me. -[653.54 --> 658.72] And what a love we've found, death can hold us down. -[658.72 --> 663.20] We shout it out, we're alive, cause you're alive. -[663.24 --> 668.26] And what a love we've found, death can hold us down. -[668.72 --> 672.74] We shout it out, we're alive, cause you're alive. -[672.82 --> 678.04] And what a love we've found, death can hold us down. -[678.04 --> 683.56] We shout it out, we're alive, cause you're alive. -[687.56 --> 691.48] Your love is greater, your love is stronger. -[692.04 --> 696.74] Your love awakens, awakens, awakens me. -[696.88 --> 700.98] Your love is greater, your love is stronger. -[700.98 --> 715.72] Your love awakens, awakens, awakens me. -[715.72 --> 730.48] Your love awakens, awakens, awakens me. -[734.48 --> 744.42] Your love awakens, awakens, awakens me. -[744.42 --> 774.40] Your love awakens, awakens me. -[774.40 --> 776.40] Your love awakens, awakens me. -[776.40 --> 777.40] Your love awakens, awakens me. -[777.40 --> 779.24] The service is going to be a little bit different today -[779.24 --> 783.26] as we include some of the GEMS in different ways by video. -[783.52 --> 786.52] But Counselor Courtney is here with us this morning -[786.52 --> 788.12] and we're really excited to have that -[788.12 --> 790.08] and to share a little bit of what's going on -[790.08 --> 792.30] in the GEMS program through her. -[793.14 --> 794.86] Just two other announcements. -[795.12 --> 798.76] One, a reminder, or maybe I'm informing you, -[798.82 --> 800.18] I'm not sure, but youth, -[800.36 --> 802.36] which was scheduled to happen tonight, 2020, -[802.36 --> 803.60] has been canceled. -[804.12 --> 806.46] And so there's an email in your inboxes -[806.46 --> 807.90] from Pastor Kevin about that. -[807.98 --> 809.20] And so make sure you check that. -[809.56 --> 810.30] But hear it here. -[810.70 --> 812.28] Youth for tonight is canceled -[812.28 --> 815.00] and that will resume again with Real Talk -[815.00 --> 816.70] in a week or so. -[817.50 --> 819.94] Also, just want to encourage everyone -[819.94 --> 821.76] and say thank you for the work that you're doing -[821.76 --> 822.48] and treat tag. -[824.36 --> 824.80] Excellent. -[825.42 --> 826.26] Keep that up. -[826.34 --> 827.46] We're hearing awesome stories -[827.46 --> 829.48] and seeing really good things on social media -[829.48 --> 831.52] as that starts to sort of snowball -[831.52 --> 834.12] into a really amazing community event -[834.12 --> 835.38] and experience together. -[836.30 --> 837.76] We come together to worship God. -[838.24 --> 840.72] He is here and he is present with you -[840.72 --> 842.28] as you gather to worship him. -[842.34 --> 844.54] And we mark that and we acknowledge that presence -[844.54 --> 846.44] by receiving God's greeting. -[846.74 --> 848.18] So I'm going to invite you, wherever you are, -[848.24 --> 851.28] if you're sitting, maybe stand or hold your hands out -[851.28 --> 854.30] to receive the greeting of our God. -[856.46 --> 858.00] Grace to you and peace -[858.00 --> 860.46] from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, -[860.56 --> 862.02] his Son and our Savior -[862.02 --> 865.22] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[866.16 --> 866.50] Amen. -[867.08 --> 868.38] Let's worship God in song together. -[873.04 --> 874.00] Good morning. -[874.36 --> 875.44] My name is Leslie -[875.44 --> 878.98] and I'm going to give our call to worship this morning -[878.98 --> 882.64] from Psalm 100, which is very familiar to us. -[884.02 --> 887.20] Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth. -[887.66 --> 889.16] Serve the Lord with gladness. -[890.08 --> 892.02] Come into his presence with singing. -[893.16 --> 895.16] Know that the Lord, he is God. -[895.74 --> 898.42] It is he who made us and we are his. -[899.32 --> 903.18] We are his people, the sheep of his pasture. -[904.26 --> 906.04] Enter his gates with thanksgiving -[906.04 --> 907.66] and his courts with praise. -[907.66 --> 909.46] Give thanks to him. -[910.06 --> 910.86] Bless his name. -[911.26 --> 912.82] For the Lord is good. -[913.64 --> 915.96] His steadfast love endures forever -[915.96 --> 918.98] and his faithfulness to all generations. -[919.82 --> 921.12] Join us in singing this morning. -[921.12 --> 922.12] Thank you. -[922.12 --> 937.00] My Jesus, my Savior, -[937.00 --> 939.38] Lord, there is blood, -[939.38 --> 945.22] I believe you are His. -[945.22 --> 949.00] My Jesus, my Savior, -[949.00 --> 953.10] Lord, there is blood like you. -[953.10 --> 958.36] All of my days I want to praise -[958.36 --> 965.70] the wonders of your mighty love. -[965.70 --> 980.16] Let every breath, all that I have, -[980.16 --> 985.84] never cease to worship you. -[985.84 --> 991.82] Shout to the Lord on the earth, let us sing. -[991.82 --> 997.20] Power and majesty, praise to the King. -[997.74 --> 1001.12] Mountains bow down and the seas -[1001.12 --> 1007.12] will roar at the sound of your name. -[1007.12 --> 1012.88] I sing for joy at the wake of your hands. -[1013.52 --> 1018.22] Forever I'll love you, forever I'll stand. -[1018.22 --> 1025.22] Nothing compares to the promise I have in you. -[1029.62 --> 1034.38] My Jesus, my Savior, -[1034.94 --> 1037.60] Lord, there is none like you. -[1038.60 --> 1043.22] All of my days I want to praise -[1043.22 --> 1050.22] the wonders of your mighty love. -[1050.22 --> 1055.58] I comfort, I shelter, -[1055.58 --> 1059.84] tower of refuge and strength. -[1059.84 --> 1064.84] That every breath, all that I am, -[1064.84 --> 1070.78] never cease to worship you. -[1070.78 --> 1076.42] Shout to the Lord on the earth, let us sing. -[1076.42 --> 1081.90] Power and majesty, praise to the King. -[1082.54 --> 1086.26] Mountains bow down and the seas will roar -[1086.26 --> 1091.70] at the sound of your name. -[1092.98 --> 1097.50] I sing for joy at the wake of your hands. -[1097.50 --> 1102.74] Forever I'll love you, forever I'll stand. -[1102.74 --> 1107.96] Nothing compares to the promise I have. -[1108.32 --> 1112.96] Nothing compares to the promise I have. -[1113.20 --> 1120.10] Oh, nothing compares to the promise I have in you. -[1127.50 --> 1132.16] Lord, please join me in this confession and assurance of prayer. -[1135.74 --> 1137.70] Gracious and merciful God, -[1138.50 --> 1141.82] you know each of our hearts this morning. -[1142.58 --> 1144.48] We come together as a congregation, -[1144.72 --> 1147.58] but also as individuals with our own struggles -[1147.58 --> 1149.80] and guilt that weigh on our hearts. -[1149.80 --> 1155.20] Lord, each of us has had to deal with trials, -[1155.64 --> 1158.08] challenges, temptations this past week. -[1159.18 --> 1162.00] In some cases, we may not have responded well. -[1163.48 --> 1166.24] We may have given in to our temptations -[1166.24 --> 1169.74] or responded in anger or indifference to challenges. -[1170.74 --> 1173.98] We may have gossiped or lied or cheated. -[1174.78 --> 1179.48] We may have fallen very short of being salt and light in this world. -[1179.80 --> 1184.92] We may have sinned, too, Lord, without even recognizing it. -[1186.54 --> 1187.92] Don't forgive us. -[1189.76 --> 1194.32] Dear Jesus, we are so thankful that you love us so much -[1194.32 --> 1197.32] that you bore our sins and grief on the cross. -[1198.14 --> 1200.60] We thank you that we can call on you -[1200.60 --> 1203.34] and have the assurance of your forgiveness -[1203.34 --> 1205.80] and life everlasting with you. -[1205.80 --> 1209.84] Thank you that you call us your prayer. -[1211.14 --> 1213.48] Thank you for your amazing love. -[1213.48 --> 1215.30] Amen. -[1235.80 --> 1247.88] I'm forgiven. -[1247.88 --> 1247.92] I'm forgiven. -[1249.04 --> 1251.32] Cause you were forsaken. -[1253.18 --> 1254.44] I'm accepted. -[1255.82 --> 1257.64] You were condemned. -[1259.54 --> 1261.98] I'm alive and well. -[1261.98 --> 1265.00] Your spirit is within me. -[1265.00 --> 1269.72] Because you died and rose again. -[1272.72 --> 1274.10] I'm forgiven. -[1275.10 --> 1277.46] Cause you were forsaken. -[1279.54 --> 1280.68] I'm accepted. -[1282.32 --> 1283.58] You were condemned. -[1283.58 --> 1288.20] I'm alive and well. -[1288.20 --> 1291.14] Your spirit is within me. -[1291.14 --> 1296.46] Because you died and rose again. -[1298.46 --> 1301.20] Amazing love. -[1301.20 --> 1303.96] How can it be -[1303.96 --> 1309.08] That you, my King, would die for me? -[1309.08 --> 1314.46] Amazing love. -[1314.46 --> 1316.96] I know it's true. -[1318.76 --> 1322.36] It's my joy to honor you. -[1322.36 --> 1329.06] In all I do, I honor you. -[1329.06 --> 1329.46] I'm forgiven. -[1329.46 --> 1329.62] I'm forgiven. -[1329.62 --> 1331.72] I'm forgiven. -[1331.72 --> 1333.56] I'm forgiven. -[1334.90 --> 1336.72] I'm forgiven. -[1337.86 --> 1340.02] Cause you were forsaken. -[1341.62 --> 1343.28] I'm accepted. -[1344.94 --> 1346.40] You are forgiven. -[1348.52 --> 1350.86] I'm alive and well. -[1350.98 --> 1353.54] The spirit is within me. -[1353.54 --> 1359.38] Because you died and rose again. -[1361.68 --> 1363.98] Amazing love. -[1363.98 --> 1366.28] I know it's true. -[1366.28 --> 1372.28] It's my joy to honor you. -[1374.28 --> 1377.08] Amazing love. -[1377.08 --> 1379.42] I know it's true. -[1379.42 --> 1385.16] It's my joy to honor you. -[1385.16 --> 1392.16] In all I do, I honor you. -[1392.16 --> 1393.16] I honor you. -[1397.16 --> 1401.66] You are my King. -[1403.66 --> 1408.66] You are my King. -[1408.66 --> 1415.40] Jesus, you are my King. -[1416.40 --> 1422.12] Jesus, you are my King. -[1424.46 --> 1426.40] Amazing love. -[1426.40 --> 1429.40] How can it be -[1429.40 --> 1434.50] That you, my King, would die for me? -[1434.50 --> 1439.24] Amazing love. -[1439.24 --> 1439.84] Amazing love. -[1439.84 --> 1442.24] I know it's true. -[1444.24 --> 1447.74] It's my joy to honor you. -[1448.68 --> 1454.24] In all I do, I honor you. -[1454.24 --> 1467.16] Good morning, kids. -[1467.32 --> 1469.40] It's great to be here this morning. -[1469.52 --> 1472.28] And it's another great Sunday morning here. -[1472.36 --> 1472.68] You know what? -[1472.70 --> 1475.26] As I'm preparing for this children's worship time, -[1475.30 --> 1476.48] I have a month to kind of prepare. -[1476.48 --> 1477.78] I think about you guys often. -[1477.78 --> 1478.92] And I sometimes wonder, -[1479.22 --> 1481.82] the next time I see you guys, -[1481.82 --> 1483.68] I'm wondering if I'm even going to recognize you. -[1483.74 --> 1484.54] Because in a year, -[1484.66 --> 1486.20] a lot of you kids change so much. -[1486.26 --> 1486.52] You grow. -[1486.60 --> 1488.28] I bet you a lot of you are getting a lot bigger. -[1488.70 --> 1489.98] And they're starting to grow up. -[1490.14 --> 1492.44] So that's going to be exciting for me to see -[1492.44 --> 1494.56] how much you guys have changed in the last year. -[1496.00 --> 1497.14] Today I got another video. -[1497.22 --> 1498.40] So it's another exciting day. -[1498.40 --> 1499.84] I spent some time on a video. -[1499.96 --> 1501.44] So we're going to share that in a few moments. -[1501.50 --> 1503.90] But first, we're going to have Nora -[1503.90 --> 1507.46] share with you the memory verse. -[1509.92 --> 1512.44] For God so loved the world -[1512.44 --> 1515.56] that he gave his one and only son -[1515.56 --> 1518.52] that whoever believes in him -[1518.52 --> 1520.94] shall not perish, -[1521.48 --> 1523.92] but have eternal life. -[1524.52 --> 1525.82] John 3, 16. -[1528.40 --> 1529.42] All right. -[1529.72 --> 1531.62] I just want to thank Nora for that. -[1531.68 --> 1532.50] That was a great job. -[1532.90 --> 1534.64] Good job with the actions there. -[1534.84 --> 1535.68] Thank you for doing that. -[1536.08 --> 1537.88] So today my video is coming up. -[1538.20 --> 1541.40] So we might as well just roll that right now -[1541.40 --> 1542.70] because it's all in the video. -[1542.88 --> 1544.02] So hope you enjoy it. -[1544.10 --> 1544.42] Thank you. -[1545.42 --> 1546.26] All right, kids. -[1547.40 --> 1548.52] Here we are for another -[1548.52 --> 1550.00] Children's Worship Time session. -[1550.16 --> 1551.82] I'm sure glad to be able to do this -[1551.82 --> 1553.10] with you guys again this month. -[1553.18 --> 1553.98] It's been a long time -[1553.98 --> 1555.86] since I've had a chance to talk to you guys. -[1555.86 --> 1556.80] So here I am. -[1556.80 --> 1559.12] Today is going to be a special day. -[1559.20 --> 1560.62] We're doing a cool story today. -[1561.42 --> 1562.42] Out in the country, -[1562.52 --> 1564.04] I found a spot where I can do the story. -[1564.12 --> 1567.46] The story today is about fish and sheep. -[1568.62 --> 1570.20] And I thought, -[1570.30 --> 1572.34] how am I going to share this story with you guys? -[1572.42 --> 1575.86] So I was thinking of taking you guys fishing. -[1576.86 --> 1580.06] But I don't know any good fishermen in my life. -[1580.10 --> 1582.66] So I wasn't sure any of them could guarantee me -[1582.66 --> 1583.66] that we could catch fish. -[1583.66 --> 1586.80] But I do know some people that own some sheep and goats. -[1586.90 --> 1588.06] So I thought that's a guarantee. -[1588.28 --> 1591.66] So today's story is going to involve sheep. -[1592.02 --> 1593.14] And we're going to show you some sheep. -[1594.02 --> 1594.98] So today's story, -[1595.06 --> 1597.48] we're going to go on a little bit of a field trip right today. -[1597.58 --> 1600.70] And we're going to go visit Milner Valley Cheese. -[1600.82 --> 1602.56] It's Farmgate Shop. -[1602.56 --> 1604.06] And it's a goat farm. -[1605.90 --> 1606.70] Like I was saying, -[1606.76 --> 1607.90] we're at a goat farm here. -[1608.14 --> 1611.62] And what they do at this farm is they milk the goats. -[1611.98 --> 1615.62] And they make goat milk and goat cheese. -[1615.70 --> 1616.32] And they sell that. -[1616.38 --> 1618.54] It's a very successful small business. -[1619.22 --> 1621.08] And they've allowed me to come here today -[1621.08 --> 1622.54] to show you a bit about their farm. -[1622.66 --> 1623.78] So we're going to go in there. -[1623.90 --> 1625.88] They do most of their work with goats, -[1625.96 --> 1626.90] but they do have some sheep. -[1627.00 --> 1628.64] So that's kind of the connection to the story -[1628.64 --> 1629.88] that we'll see some sheep today. -[1629.88 --> 1632.52] So I'm going to go ahead and take you guys into the barn -[1632.52 --> 1634.76] and do a little video with you there -[1634.76 --> 1637.44] and share the story today from the Bible. -[1638.32 --> 1639.84] Okay, so here we are at the farm. -[1639.94 --> 1642.30] This building here is where they milk the cows -[1642.30 --> 1647.40] and make the cheese and the milk that they sell. -[1647.62 --> 1649.02] And then as we turn this way, -[1649.04 --> 1650.36] we're going to head over to the barn. -[1650.68 --> 1651.94] It's just a small barn, -[1652.06 --> 1653.40] but it's kind of cool in there. -[1655.00 --> 1656.82] There's quite a few goats in there. -[1658.12 --> 1659.40] But they have some sheep. -[1659.40 --> 1660.38] So here we go. -[1660.46 --> 1662.04] We're going to come in, coming into the barn. -[1662.12 --> 1663.66] You can start seeing some of them there. -[1664.92 --> 1666.28] Here we are coming in. -[1667.62 --> 1672.84] And these are all the goats they use for their business. -[1674.88 --> 1676.04] And it's pretty cool. -[1676.04 --> 1679.62] They're a little bit scared of people. -[1679.62 --> 1684.68] But if you look back in the photo there, -[1684.76 --> 1688.96] you can see there's a few sheep in the back there -[1688.96 --> 1692.54] that are looking a little more hairy than the goats. -[1692.54 --> 1698.66] They tell me that one of these sheep, -[1698.72 --> 1700.58] I think that guy in the corner there, -[1700.66 --> 1702.72] he's the nice one, and he likes to, -[1703.20 --> 1704.20] he likes people. -[1704.34 --> 1708.04] So I think he's going to be willing to take some of this hay from me here. -[1708.82 --> 1710.14] You can see down there. -[1710.14 --> 1713.26] Oh, even the goats are going at it here. -[1714.14 --> 1714.66] Pretty good. -[1714.70 --> 1717.16] But I'm going to try to get at this sheep here if I can. -[1718.76 --> 1719.54] Where are you guys? -[1721.24 --> 1722.34] And here's the sheep. -[1722.98 --> 1728.20] He's just chowing down on this hay here that I got. -[1728.70 --> 1729.42] And I'm feeding them. -[1731.04 --> 1732.00] Goat's pretty good. -[1732.00 --> 1735.54] They're all staring at me like, -[1735.64 --> 1736.52] what are you doing here? -[1736.60 --> 1737.72] I don't know who you are. -[1737.78 --> 1739.96] So like I said to you, kids, -[1740.06 --> 1742.08] I was telling you that the story today is about, -[1742.08 --> 1748.08] the story today is about sheep and fish. -[1748.72 --> 1749.96] And how the story starts is, -[1750.00 --> 1750.84] I don't know if you remember, -[1750.84 --> 1753.00] but over the last couple of weeks, -[1753.16 --> 1754.02] Jesus has been, -[1755.72 --> 1757.26] he was raised from the dead, -[1757.36 --> 1759.70] and he showed himself to the kids -[1759.70 --> 1761.36] as goats chewing on my elbow here. -[1761.44 --> 1761.74] See that? -[1761.74 --> 1762.60] Ow, jeepers. -[1763.76 --> 1767.02] Jesus showed himself to the disciples in the house, -[1767.08 --> 1769.40] and he shared himself with Thomas -[1769.40 --> 1773.36] to show him the nail marks in his hands -[1773.36 --> 1775.22] so that he believed that he was Jesus -[1775.22 --> 1776.32] and he was Rose again. -[1777.16 --> 1778.34] So where this story happens -[1778.34 --> 1780.02] is the disciples are all hanging out, -[1780.78 --> 1782.78] and they decide they're going to go fishing. -[1783.24 --> 1784.54] So they decide, -[1784.62 --> 1785.72] hey, let's go fishing tonight. -[1785.82 --> 1786.48] We're going to go fishing. -[1786.58 --> 1787.82] We're going to catch lots of fish, -[1787.90 --> 1790.34] and it'll be a fun time together with the disciples, -[1790.34 --> 1791.84] and we can just hang out like buddies. -[1791.94 --> 1793.36] So they go out fishing for the night, -[1793.44 --> 1794.20] and they get out there, -[1794.52 --> 1796.22] and they fish all night long. -[1797.30 --> 1798.52] And it gets to the morning, -[1798.58 --> 1799.82] and they have caught nothing. -[1800.86 --> 1802.36] And as they're getting close to shore, -[1802.44 --> 1803.84] some guy on the shore says to them, -[1803.90 --> 1806.10] hey, did you guys catch anything? -[1806.10 --> 1808.02] And they're like, no, we didn't catch anything. -[1808.30 --> 1810.56] And he says, hey, put your nets onto the other side -[1810.56 --> 1812.46] and try that, the other side of the boat. -[1812.54 --> 1813.64] So they go and do that, -[1814.36 --> 1817.00] and sure enough, they catch a whole pile of fish. -[1819.10 --> 1823.92] And the disciples recognize through conversation -[1823.92 --> 1825.96] that this is Jesus that's on the shore. -[1825.96 --> 1828.96] And Peter, the disciple Peter, -[1829.06 --> 1831.92] who we've come to know over the many stories of last few, -[1832.00 --> 1834.88] jumps overboard out of the boat and swims to shore -[1834.88 --> 1836.86] because he wants to see Jesus so much. -[1837.10 --> 1838.38] He wants to spend time with them. -[1838.74 --> 1840.18] So as they got to the shore, -[1840.60 --> 1842.96] as Peter got to shore and his disciples got to shore, -[1843.04 --> 1845.20] they noticed that Jesus has built a little fire. -[1846.32 --> 1848.40] And Jesus says to the disciples, -[1848.60 --> 1850.54] why don't you bring me one of your fish, -[1850.62 --> 1852.40] and I will make breakfast for you guys. -[1852.40 --> 1856.38] So Jesus proceeded to make some breakfast out of the fish, -[1856.42 --> 1857.48] and he gave them some bread, -[1857.60 --> 1859.44] and they were able to eat their breakfast -[1859.44 --> 1860.78] after a long day of fishing -[1860.78 --> 1862.24] through the night of catching nothing. -[1867.16 --> 1870.68] So after Jesus had served them breakfast, -[1871.38 --> 1873.10] they were sitting around chit-chatting, -[1873.30 --> 1874.80] and Jesus says to Peter, -[1874.94 --> 1876.80] Peter, do you love me? -[1876.98 --> 1878.98] And Peter responded, of course I do. -[1879.00 --> 1879.92] I love you so much. -[1879.92 --> 1882.72] And Jesus says to him, take care of my lambs. -[1883.60 --> 1884.64] Feed my lambs. -[1885.68 --> 1888.32] And then Jesus asked Peter a second time, -[1888.44 --> 1889.48] Peter, do you love me? -[1889.56 --> 1891.40] And Peter responded, yes, I do. -[1891.58 --> 1892.72] I love you so much. -[1892.90 --> 1895.12] And then Jesus says, take care of my sheep. -[1896.08 --> 1898.74] And the third time, Jesus asked Peter, -[1899.18 --> 1900.52] Peter, do you love me? -[1901.70 --> 1903.36] And Peter was getting a little annoyed. -[1903.46 --> 1904.76] He said, of course I do, Father. -[1904.84 --> 1905.76] I love you so much. -[1906.02 --> 1908.70] And Jesus responds to him, feed my sheep. -[1908.70 --> 1914.34] I'll take a few minutes here to talk a little bit about the story, -[1914.42 --> 1920.30] but I'm going to give you a little bit more video of these cool sheep and goats here in the barn. -[1920.30 --> 1921.84] So here are more of the goats. -[1921.98 --> 1922.56] They're sitting there. -[1922.62 --> 1923.26] They're hanging out. -[1923.40 --> 1927.04] Some of them are relaxing, taking a load off. -[1927.04 --> 1934.42] Here's these little guys, goats down here, chowing on this hay that we got here. -[1934.42 --> 1940.34] I was thinking about jumping into the pen with these sheep. -[1940.50 --> 1941.44] Do you think I should do it? -[1941.52 --> 1943.34] Or do you think it's a bad idea? -[1944.10 --> 1945.14] I think I might try. -[1945.22 --> 1945.58] Here I go. -[1945.64 --> 1948.54] I'm going to try jumping into here with these goats and see what happens. -[1949.82 --> 1951.52] I'm going into the goat pen here. -[1951.52 --> 1954.08] And they're all running away from me. -[1954.84 --> 1955.72] But here's my friend. -[1955.80 --> 1958.64] Look at the guy with the red collar. -[1958.78 --> 1960.44] Oh, these goats are coming close to me. -[1960.54 --> 1961.12] They're all coming. -[1961.22 --> 1962.04] They're all checking me out. -[1962.94 --> 1964.84] I think this might be a bad idea. -[1964.96 --> 1966.24] I think I'm going to try to get out. -[1966.46 --> 1970.42] Because if they stomp me, will anybody ever find me? -[1970.42 --> 1975.78] Before I leave here, I thought I would show you. -[1975.82 --> 1979.52] There's a few little baby goats sitting in the corner here. -[1979.64 --> 1980.74] Aren't they cute little things? -[1980.84 --> 1982.28] Wouldn't you like to take one of them home? -[1983.30 --> 1986.22] I'm sure your mom and dad would love having one of them running around the house. -[1986.40 --> 1987.10] Oh, here comes. -[1988.14 --> 1991.70] Mama's saying, give me some luck for our stay away from my babies. -[1993.70 --> 1995.32] There's a guy right here too. -[1996.10 --> 1997.44] A couple little ones there. -[1998.54 --> 1999.40] Cute little guys. -[2000.42 --> 2006.46] So I'm back here at my place. -[2006.56 --> 2007.64] We're in a greenhouse here. -[2007.96 --> 2010.60] I thought this would be a good place to talk a bit about the story. -[2012.62 --> 2017.86] It's an interesting story because in the story, Jesus asked Peter three times if he loves him. -[2018.48 --> 2020.92] And each time Peter responds, yes, I do love me. -[2020.98 --> 2024.58] And Jesus makes some kind of reference to feed my sheep or take care of my sheep. -[2024.94 --> 2029.28] But it's also interesting, kids, that remember a while back, -[2029.28 --> 2032.10] and the stories were before Jesus was crucified. -[2032.10 --> 2034.56] Peter was sitting around a fire with a bunch of people. -[2034.74 --> 2038.88] And three times, the three times he denied that he knew Jesus. -[2039.04 --> 2043.66] And here in this story, Jesus is asking Peter three times, do you love me? -[2044.04 --> 2046.54] And each time Peter says, yes, I do love you. -[2046.54 --> 2049.92] And Jesus encourages him to please feed my sheep. -[2050.36 --> 2057.82] So it's interesting here that even though Peter denied Jesus those three times, -[2058.10 --> 2064.24] Jesus still has a lot of faith in him and realizes that if his kingdom and his work on earth is going to continue, -[2064.24 --> 2068.26] he needs Peter to do it because he was obviously a passionate guy. -[2069.52 --> 2074.40] And Jesus could see that his kingdom would grow through Peter. -[2074.52 --> 2078.04] So this is an awesome story where there's a little bit of redemption here for Peter, -[2078.12 --> 2082.60] even though he may have made a poor decision about denying Jesus earlier. -[2082.60 --> 2087.26] But now he's able to ask for forgiveness and to recommit himself to Jesus -[2087.26 --> 2090.48] and to go ahead from this point on to further his kingdom. -[2091.36 --> 2092.84] So it's kind of a great story. -[2092.98 --> 2094.94] Hope you had a good time with me this morning. -[2095.52 --> 2097.52] And I'm not sure what you're doing after this story, -[2097.60 --> 2103.52] but maybe you're doing some crafts or some other coloring or other things for children's worship time. -[2103.60 --> 2105.10] But I hope you have a great day. -[2105.18 --> 2108.12] Let me just pray with you guys before you go your way. -[2108.12 --> 2109.88] And let's do that. -[2110.04 --> 2111.90] Heavenly Father, thank you so much for this day. -[2112.02 --> 2112.96] Thank you for the kids. -[2113.10 --> 2114.22] Even though we can't see them, -[2114.74 --> 2118.38] I'm thankful that we could do these kind of stories with them and they could share. -[2131.56 --> 2131.96] Hello. -[2132.64 --> 2133.34] I'm Courtney. -[2133.34 --> 2139.22] And I am the coordinator for the Langley-Emmanuel CRC's GEMS program. -[2139.88 --> 2142.54] GEMS stands for Girls Everywhere Meeting the Savior. -[2143.30 --> 2150.86] And its vision is to see girls around the world actively and enthusiastically expressing love for God and others. -[2151.60 --> 2157.04] Girls equipped, motivated, and passionately engaged in living out their faith. -[2157.04 --> 2164.36] The mission of GEMS is to bring girls everywhere into a living, dynamic relationship with Jesus Christ. -[2165.38 --> 2173.40] The Langley-Emmanuel GEMS does this through Bible study, badges, crafts, conversations, and so much more. -[2174.36 --> 2180.58] We currently have eight leaders and 28 girls, ranging in ages from grades 3 to grade 7. -[2180.58 --> 2188.86] This year, our theme has been friended, which is centered around the fact that Jesus is the perfect friend, -[2189.36 --> 2192.66] and that by turning to him and learning to be more like him, -[2192.98 --> 2198.00] we can in turn show our love, his love for us through our relationships. -[2198.00 --> 2207.10] I have called you friends for everything that I have learned from God that I have made from you. -[2207.10 --> 2208.60] John 1515. -[2214.80 --> 2217.68] Girls, what does the Lord require of you? -[2218.98 --> 2223.78] To act justly, to love mercy, and to walk through our God. -[2223.78 --> 2224.92] 6 verse 8. -[2224.92 --> 2225.42] 6 verse 8. -[2228.00 --> 2256.14] Everybody knows heartbreak, isolation. -[2256.14 --> 2263.14] But we can lay our burdens down. -[2263.14 --> 2267.14] Lay our burdens down. -[2267.14 --> 2268.14] Lay our burdens down. -[2268.14 --> 2272.14] What a friend we have in Jesus. -[2273.14 --> 2275.14] He's to his mind. -[2275.14 --> 2276.78] Sins are gone. -[2277.14 --> 2281.34] I see grace on every horizon. -[2281.34 --> 2286.34] And forever and ever as hard as my home. -[2286.34 --> 2290.34] Hey, yeah. -[2290.34 --> 2296.34] Everybody has fears. -[2296.34 --> 2298.34] Everybody got worried. -[2298.34 --> 2303.34] Everybody knows sorrow, devastation. -[2303.34 --> 2305.34] Everybody knows sorrow, devastation. -[2305.34 --> 2307.34] Everybody knows sorrow, devastation. -[2310.34 --> 2314.34] But we can lay our burdens down. -[2314.34 --> 2315.34] Lay our burdens down. -[2315.34 --> 2316.34] Lay our burdens down. -[2316.34 --> 2317.34] Lay our burdens down. -[2317.34 --> 2319.34] Lay our burdens down. -[2319.34 --> 2321.34] What a friend we have in Jesus. -[2321.34 --> 2323.34] He's to his mind. -[2323.34 --> 2325.34] He's to his mind. -[2325.34 --> 2326.34] He's to his mind. -[2326.34 --> 2327.34] Sins are gone. -[2327.34 --> 2330.34] I see grace on every horizon. -[2330.34 --> 2337.34] And forever and ever as hard as my home. -[2337.34 --> 2339.34] No more betrayal. -[2339.34 --> 2341.34] For he is faithful. -[2341.34 --> 2348.34] He fills me up and my cup run is over. -[2348.34 --> 2350.34] No more betrayal. -[2350.34 --> 2352.34] For he is faithful. -[2352.34 --> 2356.34] How he has proven it over and over. -[2356.34 --> 2358.34] No more betrayal. -[2358.34 --> 2361.34] For he is faithful. -[2361.34 --> 2365.34] He fills me up and my cup run is over. -[2365.34 --> 2367.34] No more betrayal. -[2367.34 --> 2369.34] For he is faithful. -[2369.34 --> 2371.34] For he is faithful. -[2371.34 --> 2373.34] Over and over. -[2373.34 --> 2374.34] Over and over. -[2374.34 --> 2375.34] And no more. -[2375.34 --> 2379.34] What a friend we have in Jesus. -[2379.34 --> 2383.34] East to west my sins are gone. -[2383.34 --> 2388.34] I see grace on every horizon. -[2388.34 --> 2393.34] And forever and ever as hard as my home. -[2393.34 --> 2396.34] What a friend we have in Jesus. -[2396.34 --> 2400.34] East to west my sins are gone. -[2400.34 --> 2401.34] Yes. -[2401.34 --> 2405.34] I see grace on every horizon. -[2405.34 --> 2410.34] And forever and ever as hard as my home. -[2410.34 --> 2414.34] Forever and ever as hard as my home. -[2414.34 --> 2416.34] Forever and ever as hard as my home. -[2426.34 --> 2431.34] The offering today is for the GEMS Ministry of North America. -[2431.34 --> 2434.34] This money is used to run GEMS on a larger scale. -[2434.34 --> 2436.34] So it helps to develop curriculum. -[2436.34 --> 2440.34] To provide staff to support the various clubs. -[2440.34 --> 2444.34] To help spread the word of GEMS. -[2444.34 --> 2447.34] And to help start new clubs as well. -[2447.34 --> 2449.34] And so much more. -[2449.34 --> 2451.34] Please give generously as God has given us. -[2451.34 --> 2463.34] All right. -[2463.34 --> 2467.34] Thank you Courtney for sharing that with us. -[2467.34 --> 2468.34] That was great. -[2468.34 --> 2469.34] Thank you for doing that. -[2469.34 --> 2476.34] Just an addition to the givings is for next Sunday. -[2476.34 --> 2478.34] The next offering is for New Ground. -[2478.34 --> 2480.34] Formerly known as Operation Manna. -[2480.34 --> 2483.34] New Ground is one of our diaconal ministries. -[2483.34 --> 2489.34] They provide seed money to help churches start or grow meaningful and sustainable community ministries. -[2489.34 --> 2496.34] So if you will prayerfully consider that for our next week's offering. -[2496.34 --> 2500.34] A couple things I want to, as I segue into the congregational prayer. -[2500.34 --> 2505.34] We've had a number of births in our baby births in our community here. -[2505.34 --> 2510.34] So we have a picture to put up on the screen there for you guys to see the new babies. -[2510.34 --> 2512.34] I know normally we get a chance to see them in church here. -[2512.34 --> 2518.34] But due to the current situation, we get to at least see a picture of them on the screen. -[2518.34 --> 2519.34] So that's fantastic. -[2519.34 --> 2528.34] Congratulations to the Howlings, the Mullers, and the Pullmans on the birth of your babies. -[2528.34 --> 2534.34] Please try, if you have a chance, to reach out to them and ask them if they need any help or with anything. -[2534.34 --> 2542.34] If you'd like to make a meal for them, Rika Emmons has kind of been in charge of that part of the ministry. -[2542.34 --> 2545.34] So if you could do that, that would be great. -[2545.34 --> 2551.34] Before I get into the congregational prayer, I just kind of wanted to share a few thoughts that I've had over the last little while. -[2551.34 --> 2558.34] And I spent a little bit of time on the road recently doing deliveries for work and stuff, and it allowed my mind to wander. -[2558.34 --> 2564.34] And as most do, I think about our world and how we're living in it today, this COVID world. -[2564.34 --> 2570.34] I'm not sure you think the same as me, but I feel like the world is very strange right now. -[2570.34 --> 2575.34] There are those who are getting really sick during this time, yet others only have a few symptoms. -[2575.34 --> 2587.34] We are given a huge blessing of new babies coming into our community, but yet grandparents and family and community cannot enjoy the full experience of this new baby. -[2587.34 --> 2592.34] We have youth that are excited about new opportunities with school and relationships and jobs. -[2592.34 --> 2600.34] But at the same time, we hear more and more incidents of anxiety, eating disorders, mental health for our youth. -[2600.34 --> 2609.34] There are adults who have lost jobs and businesses, and businesses that struggle to pay the bills, while other businesses are thriving during this time. -[2609.34 --> 2619.34] There are young people planning on marriages and lives together, despite the restrictions, while many marriages are struggling during this time. -[2619.34 --> 2627.34] We all have close family and friends that have passed away, and we cannot get together to honour them and celebrate the life they lived among us. -[2627.34 --> 2636.34] In the Bible, it says that we are to trust Him, not a hair falls from our head without His knowing about it, and that He loves us and cares for us. -[2636.34 --> 2640.34] Sometimes it's hard to see that right now, for many. -[2640.34 --> 2646.34] Sometimes I think I would like to stop by God's office, knock on His door and say, -[2646.34 --> 2649.34] you know this COVID thing we have going on right now? -[2649.34 --> 2654.34] You said don't worry about anything, and you have a plan and everything will be okay in the end? -[2654.34 --> 2657.34] I'd like to follow that up with God. -[2657.34 --> 2659.34] Can you run that by me again? -[2659.34 --> 2663.34] And explain it to me again, because I'm having my doubts right now. -[2663.34 --> 2665.34] But that's what faith is, right? -[2665.34 --> 2672.34] Let's pray, trusting and following and doing our best in this world, and let God worry about the big things. -[2672.34 --> 2674.34] Let's join together in prayer. -[2674.34 --> 2681.34] Heavenly Father, we are grateful to be here today to worship you with our greater community, watching from home. -[2681.34 --> 2688.34] As we take time on this day to reflect on our lives and rest, we are comforted by the turning of the seasons. -[2688.34 --> 2698.34] Despite all the chaos that seems to be around us, we can see your steady hand at the wheel, when the flowers and the shrubs come to life with the start of spring. -[2698.34 --> 2702.34] We are grateful for the trees that are pushing out their leaves and bulbs are popping out of the ground. -[2702.34 --> 2705.34] Thank you for this reminder of your great power. -[2705.34 --> 2710.56] we have words of thanksgiving Lord for the healthy births of new babies in our church -[2710.56 --> 2715.04] we celebrate with the Pullmans the Mullers and the Howlings with the new additions to their families -[2715.04 --> 2722.64] exciting times and lots of work but great rewards we thank you Lord for Miriam Visser's successful -[2722.64 --> 2728.36] surgery a while back and that she is recovering nicely at home we pray for Clarence Stamm as he -[2728.36 --> 2733.26] repairs for knee surgery in the next few days we pray that all goes well with the operation -[2733.26 --> 2738.30] Lord we do not want to forget those in our community who have lost loved ones and the -[2738.30 --> 2743.60] difficulties that having a loved one missing can bring we think of the Alexander family the Cools -[2743.60 --> 2749.10] and the Boats please let these families feel your presence so they can lean on you in times of need -[2749.10 --> 2755.26] it seems Lord as as these new variants of COVID enter our country more and more of us are getting -[2755.26 --> 2761.66] the virus we pray for those in our church that have the virus and are recovering I think now we all -[2761.66 --> 2766.70] know someone who has gotten the virus and we pray that the recovery and return to regular regular life -[2766.70 --> 2773.54] is going smoothly as the hospitals fill with the sick we ask that you give strength and discernment -[2773.54 --> 2779.72] to our hospital professionals as they care for all those who need help and care we ask for strength for -[2779.72 --> 2785.72] those who still need to pull through the symptoms of this virus this virus Lord has created a lot of -[2785.72 --> 2792.76] collateral damage we hear of more and more broken and hurting relationships vast references to loneliness -[2792.76 --> 2799.52] we hear of the rise in mental health challenges among all ages especially the youth Lord give us strength -[2799.52 --> 2804.58] and wisdom to be a source of strength for those looking for refuge and encouragement and for those -[2804.58 --> 2811.48] that need help I pray that help is easy to find Lord it seems like we are at the mercy of our civic leaders -[2811.48 --> 2816.84] with the decisions they have to make each day I too ask that you arm them with wisdom and discernment -[2816.84 --> 2822.52] to make sound and wise decisions for us all these decisions are difficult and my prayers that they -[2822.52 --> 2829.88] seek wisdom from you as they navigate the course for us we are thankful that the kids have been able to -[2829.88 --> 2836.20] attend school regularly this year as the virus spreads that may not be an option anymore give our kids -[2836.20 --> 2841.40] strength to press on through the challenges at school or if needed the challenges of learning from home and -[2841.40 --> 2847.16] all that goes along with that process as it crows up this prayer Lord it is easy to focus on the -[2847.16 --> 2852.84] negatives but we need to enjoy and reflect on the good things we have going on in our lives we give -[2852.84 --> 2859.56] thanks for going for walks and enjoying nature having the freedom to still do church the abundance of food -[2859.56 --> 2866.12] that we can enjoy for most of us we still have good jobs to go to the coming of summer and the outdoor -[2866.12 --> 2870.68] activities that go along with that and a whole host of other blessings we can reflect on -[2872.12 --> 2878.52] this reminds me of song lord that we sang often as kids we need to trust and obey for there's no other -[2878.52 --> 2894.12] way to be happy in jesus and to trust and obey help us all to trust you honor you and be a light for you in this world amen -[2896.12 --> 2906.12] we're going to come together and spend some time in god's word we're going to focus on what has been -[2906.12 --> 2912.52] the gems theme verse from john 15 verse 15 but i'm going to read that in its context and so if you have -[2912.52 --> 2919.00] a bible encourage you to open that up uh turn it on if it's on your phone or wherever uh and follow along -[2919.00 --> 2925.64] in first in john 15 i'll start at verse 9 and then i'll read through to verse 17 -[2928.52 --> 2939.40] as the father has loved me so have i loved you now remain in my love if you keep my commands you remain -[2939.40 --> 2944.76] in my love just as i have kept my father's commands and remain in his love -[2944.76 --> 2952.68] i have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete -[2954.20 --> 2963.00] my command is this love each other as i have loved you greater love has no one than this to lay down -[2963.00 --> 2971.48] one's life for one's friends you are my friends if you do what i command i no longer call you servants -[2971.48 --> 2976.60] because a servant does not know his master's business instead i have called you friends -[2976.60 --> 2981.56] for everything that i have learned from my father i have made known to you -[2983.64 --> 2991.72] you did not choose me but i chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit fruit that will -[2991.72 --> 3000.84] last and so that whatever you ask in my name the father will give you this is my command love each other -[3002.04 --> 3002.76] the word of the lord -[3006.60 --> 3014.20] when i was in high school which is actually further back now than i really realized as i was -[3014.20 --> 3019.64] reflecting on this story this past week but when i was in high school we had a keyboarding class -[3020.44 --> 3026.44] now that probably dates me but i want to be clear that it doesn't date me so much as someone who -[3026.44 --> 3032.28] had a keyboarding class that was actually on a typewriter and i see hands up exactly all right -[3032.28 --> 3037.48] we at least had a computer now if you're listening and you don't know what a typewriter is -[3038.60 --> 3041.16] call grandma and grandpa after the service and they will tell you -[3043.16 --> 3049.00] now i don't know how they still teach keyboarding i know that they do and in fact my three-year-old -[3049.00 --> 3056.04] daughter has keyboarding class in her school but when i was taking keyboarding we learned all about -[3056.04 --> 3061.24] home row right you learned what fingers went on what keys and which ones you use to type what letter -[3061.24 --> 3066.76] which thumb you were supposed to use to hit the space bar you learned all the proper techniques and -[3066.76 --> 3073.56] tips for typing and doing so quickly and in that class in high school the goal was to be able to type -[3073.56 --> 3080.84] accurately and to type quickly and to pass the class you had to type at least 40 words per minute -[3081.56 --> 3091.00] at a 95 accuracy now for fun i did an online test this week to check out my typing and i type at 68 -[3091.00 --> 3096.92] words per minute with 98 accuracy now i'm not bragging because that's actually not a very good number for -[3096.92 --> 3102.52] those who type professionally but i can tell you this i had pastor kevin do the same test and he types at -[3102.52 --> 3109.16] 45 words per minute also with a 98 accuracy so he would barely pass the class that i had in high -[3109.16 --> 3116.52] school so at least i'm better than that anyways why do i bring this up and what is what is the point -[3117.16 --> 3122.92] in that class one of the ways that they would test your speed and your accuracy was to have you type a -[3122.92 --> 3130.12] series of sentences and i'll never forget it but one of those sentences that i had to type over and over -[3130.12 --> 3137.56] and over again over the course of that class was this the only way to have a friend is to be one -[3138.76 --> 3145.00] the only way to have a friend is to be one and that line has stuck with me for 25 years -[3145.88 --> 3151.88] right 25 years later that's still in my brain and i didn't learn that until this past week actually -[3151.88 --> 3158.68] but that line the only way to have a friend is to be one is a quote from 19th century american -[3158.68 --> 3166.04] poet and essayist ralph waldo emerson it's part of a work that he wrote an essay he wrote called friendship -[3166.68 --> 3173.72] and it's part of a larger quote that says the only reward for virtue is virtue the only way to have a -[3173.72 --> 3182.52] friend is to be one so this morning taking inspiration from that quote and from that memory which stuck -[3182.52 --> 3190.52] with me forever and i hope uh what i say can stick with you for half as long and then reading this idea -[3190.52 --> 3199.16] through the gems theme verse from john 15 15 which says i have called you friends for everything i have -[3199.16 --> 3208.12] learned from my father i have made known to you this morning i would like us to reflect on this idea -[3209.56 --> 3218.20] the idea that having jesus as your friend makes you a better friend to each other -[3219.56 --> 3227.40] but that the best way to have friends is to have jesus as your first friend right when jesus comes first -[3227.40 --> 3235.88] the rest can follow and so our idea is that having jesus as your friend makes you a better friend to others -[3241.48 --> 3242.20] and i get it -[3245.24 --> 3255.24] i know that it is hard to be a kid right now and not just because of covid though that's not making it any -[3255.24 --> 3263.80] easier right when i was a kid the world was so big and so full of possibility and imagination and so -[3263.80 --> 3267.96] out there but now 12 year old kids carry the world in their pockets -[3269.48 --> 3275.00] right the world is smaller and more immediately present right you don't go outside to find the -[3275.00 --> 3279.56] world anymore you don't go outside to find trouble today the world and all its challenges and troubles and -[3279.56 --> 3284.92] fears and fears and scary places has made its way inside of our homes and we hold it in our hands -[3288.28 --> 3291.32] and i get it kids can be mean -[3293.80 --> 3299.24] and to be honest that's always been true right and adults can be just as mean -[3300.92 --> 3304.20] but what's different now is that you can't escape it -[3304.20 --> 3309.40] right it used to be that you could go home from school and you would leave the kid who was bugging -[3309.40 --> 3316.68] you at school but now that follows you it used to be that you could go home from work but now that -[3316.68 --> 3323.88] follows you and it's with you wherever you go and don't hear what i'm not saying right i'm not i'm not -[3323.88 --> 3329.40] against technology and i'm not trying to tell you how you should give or when you should give your -[3329.40 --> 3335.08] kids a phone or some sort of device a computer or access to all of that right you've got rules and -[3335.08 --> 3339.96] you've got wisdom for that as parents but don't get me wrong i've got really strong opinions and ideas -[3339.96 --> 3344.92] about what that ought to be like and what it means to be a tech wise family and i think that's one of -[3344.92 --> 3352.12] the most important things that we have as a job for us as those of us who are parents to do that well with our kids today -[3352.12 --> 3362.60] the point that i want to just land here on is that it's just hard to be a kid it's hard to be safe -[3363.48 --> 3370.52] right in our hyper connected culture and time people are terrified of genuine connection they're -[3370.52 --> 3377.16] terrified to to reveal their real selves in our super connected culture people are feeling more lonely -[3377.16 --> 3384.76] than ever and kids and families with things like texting or dming or snapchatting or tick tock or -[3384.76 --> 3390.28] instagram or whatever the new social platform is right there's this pressure that exists in every -[3390.28 --> 3397.32] area of our lives to curate it to a particular image of dixie d'amelio or olivia rodrigo right to -[3397.32 --> 3403.00] to send a snap in the mirror because some boy asked you to do it or to trust that your friends are not going -[3403.00 --> 3407.56] to take something that you've told them and then just put it out to the whole discord group right -[3407.56 --> 3409.16] all of this comes together -[3412.12 --> 3421.56] and we feel so lonely and isolated and left out there's countless statistics out there to prove -[3421.56 --> 3425.88] this and you know i have statistics from the canadian mental health association from -[3426.44 --> 3432.76] unicef canada from the vancouver hospital and their children's health association but the what you need to -[3432.76 --> 3438.76] hear is that one in four kids have expressed a feeling of loneliness or isolation and in fact -[3438.76 --> 3441.00] if you're talking about just girls that's one in three -[3443.88 --> 3451.56] and that's before this pandemic came in place it's only gotten worse as a result of that because here -[3451.56 --> 3456.12] we have to for the health and well-being of our friends and family and neighbors we have to isolate -[3456.12 --> 3465.00] we have to be physically distant we have to have smaller and smaller bubbles this is our reality this is -[3465.00 --> 3470.76] our context and it is hard and it is lonely and it can be scary -[3474.28 --> 3482.52] and to our tears and to our anxieties and to our fears and to our broken hearts jesus speaks -[3482.52 --> 3491.56] jesus is speaking the truth of his gospel into the everyday stuff of our life and that is really -[3491.56 --> 3498.36] what gems has been about this year for these girls to be honest that's really what all of this is about -[3498.36 --> 3507.08] what jesus is about for all of us this year and every year right to those who feel lost jesus says i have -[3507.08 --> 3515.48] found you to those who are afraid jesus says i have overcome to those who are crying jesus says i will -[3515.48 --> 3522.92] cry with you to those whose life has been turned upside down jesus says i will hold on to you to those who -[3522.92 --> 3535.08] are alone jesus says i will never leave you to those who are looking for a place to belong jesus says i am yours and you are mine -[3535.08 --> 3550.52] mine here is your home jesus says i have called you friends jesus is changing our relationships jesus is -[3550.52 --> 3559.40] changing our stories jesus is changing who you are and how you relate to god now these words of jesus that -[3559.40 --> 3567.48] we read are part of a a bigger discussion that he is having with his disciples takes place in john 15 -[3567.48 --> 3574.36] and in the chapters that surround it and that bigger discussion jesus presents himself as the true vine -[3575.00 --> 3581.80] right that it's this is what it means to be connected to him he is the vine we are the branches and as -[3581.80 --> 3591.88] tightly as a branch is connected to the vine so too uh are we connected to jesus that's the gospel right -[3591.88 --> 3599.08] that's the the good news that jesus takes you he wraps his arms of love and grace around you and by faith -[3599.08 --> 3608.20] he connects you to himself but that's what faith is right faith is the thing that unites us to jesus faith is -[3608.20 --> 3615.96] the belief in his word and plan in his life and work faith is trusting that what he says is true and that -[3615.96 --> 3625.80] living by faith is the best way to live faith is the line that that binds us to jesus and more importantly -[3626.60 --> 3634.84] faith is the line that binds jesus to us and the bible tells us over and over again that faith -[3634.84 --> 3642.68] is a gift perhaps no more explicitly than in ephesians 2 paul writes for it is by grace you have been saved -[3642.68 --> 3652.60] through faith and this is not from yourselves it is the gift of god right god gives the gift of faith -[3652.60 --> 3660.44] and all you have to do is need it right the only thing we do in this exchange is recognize our need -[3660.44 --> 3668.12] for him right every person has that need but not every person recognizes that need and in it turns -[3668.12 --> 3679.40] to god that's faith and faith makes jesus your friend you see so many of us have this wrong image -[3679.40 --> 3687.72] of god and god is not the task master pulling strings manipulating you against your will god isn't up -[3687.72 --> 3693.64] in heaven waiting for you to figure it all out and get to him god isn't ignoring your cries or your tears -[3693.64 --> 3700.44] god isn't some angry bearded man in the sky bubbling with rage just waiting to explode right god the father -[3700.44 --> 3713.08] sent jesus the son to be your friend jesus wants your faith and to get it he gives you his life -[3713.08 --> 3723.16] that's what god's love looks like that while we were yet sinners christ died for us this is love not -[3723.16 --> 3729.56] that we have loved god but that he loved us and sent his son as an atoning sacrifice greater love has no -[3729.56 --> 3738.60] one than this than to lay down one's life for one's friend jesus is the one friend who laid down his life -[3738.60 --> 3749.40] for you all right i want you to to map this out and so we're going to draw a picture together -[3750.76 --> 3755.40] if you don't have it right handy right now you're going to need a sheet of paper and a pen or a marker -[3755.40 --> 3761.48] a crayon or something to write with and if you don't have that handy you go ahead and find it right now i am -[3761.48 --> 3766.92] giving you permission as long as your parents agree and then parents you can also do this with us this -[3766.92 --> 3772.36] morning i'll wait you go ahead and get your pens or papers or whatever you need we're going to draw a -[3772.36 --> 3780.60] picture together so that by the end we can all see it in one snapshot together and like i said everyone -[3780.60 --> 3785.72] can do this doesn't have to be the gems girls or the kids right we all need this reminder we can all -[3785.72 --> 3790.44] draw this picture and then hang it up on our fridge or on our bulletin boards or wherever we have those -[3790.44 --> 3797.08] things and in fact after church i would love it if with your parents help or your guardian's help -[3798.36 --> 3802.76] you took a picture of what we drew and maybe you colored it maybe you spent some time -[3804.20 --> 3809.56] and then you post that on social media be sure to tag our church in that so we can all see the work -[3809.56 --> 3817.24] that you've done together all right was that enough time do we have paper okay so take your piece of paper -[3817.24 --> 3824.92] and then on it i want you to trace the outline of your hand trace the outline of your hand with your -[3824.92 --> 3831.40] fingers spread five fingers out so you can get it on the paper right in the middle of the paper trace -[3831.40 --> 3842.44] the outline of your hand and now once you have that outline traced right in the middle of the palm of your -[3842.44 --> 3853.40] your hand draw a circle right in the middle of the palm that's going to be jesus hand right pierced with -[3853.40 --> 3864.52] a nail as he hung on a cross that's the hand of love that's the hand that reaches out to you to to lift -[3864.52 --> 3871.48] you up to hug you and to hold you and to support you that's the hand of the gospel the hand that was pierced -[3871.48 --> 3873.00] for our transgressions -[3875.80 --> 3884.68] and now on that hand underneath the circle that you drew i want you to write an n and an e -[3885.48 --> 3888.12] writing the word one so that circle now becomes an o -[3889.56 --> 3895.00] all right so you have the hand and then it's down the middle there it says one jesus is the friend who -[3895.00 --> 3905.64] laid down his life for you jesus is the one friend who will never leave jesus is the one who is always -[3905.64 --> 3912.36] there jesus is the one who understands everything you are going through jesus is the one who knows your -[3912.36 --> 3923.00] temptation and your trial jesus is the one who is right now interceding with the father on your behalf jesus is the one who is reaching out his hands to you -[3923.00 --> 3930.68] jesus is the one transforming you he's the one changing your life that's what it means actually -[3930.68 --> 3936.84] when jesus says i have called you friends for everything i have learned from my father i have -[3936.84 --> 3944.60] made known to you jesus is making known to you the way of life he is making known to you a new identity -[3944.60 --> 3951.48] and a new purpose a way of being human in the world that is for the glory of god and full of meaning -[3951.48 --> 3959.16] and full of joy that lasts jesus is giving you a mission and it's the mission for which god sent -[3959.16 --> 3965.80] jesus to the world and the mission for which god is now sending you as jesus disciple into the world -[3967.96 --> 3974.20] you did not choose me but i chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit -[3974.92 --> 3984.20] fruit that will last jesus is the one friend who will never ever fail you -[3988.52 --> 3996.68] and as daughters of god as sons of god i hope and i pray and i i plead with you that that you will know -[3996.68 --> 4004.44] this truth that jesus is the one that he chose you that he is the one and that his love for you -[4004.44 --> 4009.24] changes you and it changes your life forever and in everything -[4013.72 --> 4021.64] and listen listen to jesus words and in verse 11 he says i have told you this so that my joy may be in -[4021.64 --> 4028.52] you and that your joy may be complete right my command is this to love each other as i have loved -[4028.52 --> 4036.84] you and then again in verse 17 he says this is my command love each other and so jesus loves you and -[4036.84 --> 4043.40] reaches out to you so that your joy may be complete and as your joy is made complete you begin to love -[4043.96 --> 4051.72] each other and those around you loving jesus makes you able to love others being jesus friends makes you -[4051.72 --> 4061.40] a better friend to each other remember our theme having jesus as your friend makes you a better friend to each -[4061.40 --> 4068.52] other and so go back to your picture right on the hand that you have been drawing -[4068.52 --> 4076.04] using the hole that became the o across the top of your palm now write the word each other -[4078.28 --> 4085.32] right having jesus as your one friend your number one friend makes you a better friend to each other -[4085.32 --> 4093.16] and here for just a minute i want to make a really important distinction and i want to be really -[4093.16 --> 4098.84] clear that this is for everyone this isn't just for the gems girls this is for everyone because here -[4098.84 --> 4104.44] we are talking about christian friendship or the the title of this message is jesus friends -[4104.44 --> 4111.32] what does it mean to be the kind of friend that jesus has in mind because you see and i think all of -[4111.32 --> 4120.60] us can relate to this you have some friends who are christian maybe you have a friend who is christian -[4120.60 --> 4127.96] but i want to ask you do you have christian friendships now that's not just a semantic -[4127.96 --> 4132.36] difference there's a grammatical difference right in the first one christian is a noun it's the person -[4132.36 --> 4138.28] in the second christian is an adjective it's a describing word and when it comes to the kinds of -[4138.28 --> 4145.72] friendships we need christian can't be just a noun right it has to describe the way we interact you -[4145.72 --> 4152.04] see friends who are christians might not actually be or look any different than friends who aren't -[4153.40 --> 4162.52] all right what's in a name but christian friendship is different christian friendship is is paul and luke -[4162.52 --> 4168.12] and mark who traveled life together as missionaries who faced death together and endured prison together -[4168.12 --> 4173.72] for their faith christian friendship is david and jonathan who trusted each other with everything in -[4173.72 --> 4179.72] their whole of life christian friendship is jesus and and lazarus and weeping in death -[4181.16 --> 4187.64] but a bunch of you listening to me right now have friends who are christians but do you have christian -[4187.64 --> 4193.08] friendships friendships friendships that are defined by praying together about talking about life -[4193.08 --> 4198.04] and faith together about sharing stories of god at work together about crying in our doubts together -[4198.04 --> 4202.52] about mourning together and laughing together reading the bible together and worshiping together -[4203.24 --> 4210.04] i want to challenge you today turn your friendships with christians into christian friendships -[4210.04 --> 4217.88] make this community make this community your family stop being acquaintances and start being brothers and sisters together -[4221.08 --> 4227.72] look i don't normally do things this way but uh i want to complete the picture that we've been drawing together -[4228.60 --> 4236.68] so i'm going to end with five quick ways to define jesus friends right five ways that you can -[4236.68 --> 4245.08] turn friends with christians into christian friendships and so first you're going to see it on the screen as we go through -[4245.96 --> 4255.08] we've already named it but love but the first answer is love and so the hand that you are drawing right love on the thumb -[4256.12 --> 4265.56] jesus said this is my command love each other now if you flip a couple pages over in your bible to john 13 -[4265.56 --> 4274.84] uh in verse 34 and 35 jesus says a new command i give you love one another as you i have loved -[4274.84 --> 4282.44] you so must you love each other by this everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love -[4283.16 --> 4292.92] each other hear this right this is important by this by loving each other everyone will know that you are my -[4292.92 --> 4299.88] disciples if you love each other right not only does having jesus as a friend make you a better friend to each other -[4299.88 --> 4307.64] but being the kind of friend that jesus wants you to be is proof that you are in turn friends with jesus -[4307.64 --> 4317.16] being the kind of friend who lays down her life for a friend has the impact of showing the world and those around you who jesus is -[4317.16 --> 4334.20] and so love as jesus loves now on your index finger right write the word serve here galatians 5 verse 13 says -[4334.20 --> 4343.64] you my brothers and sisters were called to be free but do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh rather -[4343.64 --> 4351.96] serve each other serve each other humbly in love serve each other right christian friendships serve -[4351.96 --> 4357.64] each other remember the emerson quote from the beginning right the only way to have a friend is to be one -[4357.64 --> 4365.96] that's what this is to serve each other and in serving you are again revealing jesus who did not come to -[4365.96 --> 4373.16] be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many because jesus served you you are set free -[4373.16 --> 4386.04] to serve each other on your next finger right pray for christian friendships pray for each other james 5 -[4386.04 --> 4392.84] says therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed the -[4392.84 --> 4399.88] prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective pray with your friends pray for your friends -[4401.72 --> 4412.44] ask your friends what can i pray for for you what can i pray for with you christian friends -[4414.04 --> 4422.68] christian friendships pray for each other number four on your ring finger write the word accept -[4422.84 --> 4432.20] right christian friendships accept each other for who we are in jesus paul writes in in romans 15 he -[4432.20 --> 4441.64] says accept one another then just as christ accepted you in order to bring praise to god now christian -[4441.64 --> 4447.72] friendships accept one another now that doesn't mean that we affirm every decision or we permit every -[4447.72 --> 4456.84] every behavior but it does mean that our starting posture is acceptance it is welcoming it is openness -[4456.84 --> 4464.36] it is humility and embrace when i truly believe that you will accept the real me that you will accept me -[4464.36 --> 4472.12] for me with all my struggles with all my sins with all my doubts i will truly share those deep parts of my -[4472.12 --> 4481.88] my life with you but only if i believe you will accept me in the midst of it christian friendships accept -[4482.68 --> 4489.64] each other and then last but definitely not least on your pinky write the words be kind -[4490.92 --> 4497.64] ephesians 4 tell us be kind and compassionate to each other forgiving each other just as in christ -[4497.64 --> 4506.20] god forgave you i don't know about you but just imagine just imagine what it would be like if all -[4506.20 --> 4514.84] your friends were kind and compassionate and forgiving and then flip it imagine if you're in your -[4514.84 --> 4522.28] friendships you were the first to be kind imagine if in your friendships you tried to to outdo your -[4522.28 --> 4527.16] friends in compassion imagine what it would look like if you were the first to forgive -[4529.80 --> 4536.60] imagine the kinds of stories our neighbors or our society would tell if all christians everywhere -[4536.60 --> 4545.40] were these kinds of friends that's the story that i want my life to be telling that i hope your life can -[4545.40 --> 4570.92] tell gems girls and everyone else having jesus as your friend makes you a better friend to others with jesus you are never truly alone with jesus you have a friend who truly understands you and loves you and because of jesus you too -[4570.92 --> 4584.28] can be the kind of friend that we all need i believe it and i pray that you can be it amen let's pray together -[4588.60 --> 4600.04] lord jesus open our eyes to the amazing way that you are our friend open our eyes to the gospel truth of what -[4600.04 --> 4610.04] you did because you love us open our eyes to see you more clearly to know your love more deeply and -[4610.04 --> 4617.56] intimately and in that opening of our eyes may our lives be opened may our affections be stirred may our -[4617.56 --> 4623.24] hearts be transformed that we can love our friends with that same love -[4623.24 --> 4637.88] we can love send us out in the power of your name in the power of your spirit send us out in the truth of the gospel to be the kinds of friends that you would have us to be -[4639.96 --> 4643.24] we might have christian friendships together -[4643.24 --> 4660.28] jesus name we pray amen -[4661.96 --> 4665.08] so -[4665.08 --> 4673.72] What a friend we have in Jesus -[4673.72 --> 4679.32] All our sins and griefs to bear -[4679.32 --> 4684.12] What a privilege to marry -[4684.12 --> 4689.50] Everything to God in prayer -[4689.50 --> 4694.32] All our peace we often forfeit -[4694.32 --> 4699.56] Oh, what a privilege pain we bear -[4699.56 --> 4704.28] All because we do not carry -[4704.28 --> 4709.18] Everything to God in prayer -[4709.18 --> 4717.24] Have we trials and temptations? -[4718.24 --> 4720.86] Is there trouble anywhere? -[4720.86 --> 4727.22] We should never be discouraged -[4727.22 --> 4732.82] Take it to the Lord in prayer -[4732.82 --> 4737.26] Can we find a friend so faithful? -[4738.10 --> 4742.88] Who will all our sorrows share? -[4742.88 --> 4747.52] Jesus knows our every weakness -[4747.52 --> 4751.84] Take it to the Lord in prayer -[4751.84 --> 4778.12] Are we weak and happy laden? -[4778.12 --> 4782.48] Come with the Lord of men -[4782.48 --> 4787.72] Precious Savior still our refuge -[4787.72 --> 4792.44] Take it to the Lord in prayer -[4792.44 --> 4797.56] To thy friends who's wise forsaken -[4797.56 --> 4802.48] Take it to the Lord in prayer -[4802.48 --> 4807.84] Give His heart to take and shield me -[4807.84 --> 4811.94] I will part the soul inside -[4811.94 --> 4830.40] As we go this week -[4830.40 --> 4833.54] We know that God goes with us -[4833.54 --> 4838.00] That Jesus is our true and better friend -[4838.00 --> 4840.86] And we go to be that kind of friend -[4840.86 --> 4843.00] For those people in our lives -[4843.00 --> 4844.20] Wherever we may meet them -[4844.20 --> 4845.38] Wherever we interact -[4845.38 --> 4849.54] And we go with the blessing of our God -[4849.54 --> 4851.96] Receive the blessing of God -[4851.96 --> 4854.28] For the day and week ahead -[4854.28 --> 4857.80] May God go before you -[4857.80 --> 4858.64] To lead you -[4858.64 --> 4860.84] May God go behind you -[4860.84 --> 4861.70] To guard you -[4861.70 --> 4863.16] May God go beneath you -[4863.16 --> 4864.18] To support you -[4864.18 --> 4866.64] And may God go beside you -[4866.64 --> 4867.90] To befriend you -[4867.90 --> 4870.96] Do not be afraid -[4870.96 --> 4872.74] Let the blessing of God -[4872.74 --> 4872.76] Let the blessing of God -[4872.76 --> 4873.64] Come upon you today -[4873.64 --> 4875.52] Do not be afraid -[4875.52 --> 4878.76] Go in peace -[4878.76 --> 4881.32] To love and serve the Lord -[4881.32 --> 4883.84] By being a Jesus friend -[4883.84 --> 4885.12] Amen -[4900.96 --> 4910.70] These are the days of evangelism -[4910.70 --> 4915.20] Declaring the word of the Lord -[4915.20 --> 4919.52] And these are the days of your servant -[4919.52 --> 4924.04] Moses' righteousness being restored -[4924.04 --> 4928.76] And though these are days of great trials -[4928.76 --> 4931.98] The famine and darkness -[4931.98 --> 4934.20] And song -[4934.20 --> 4937.92] Till we are the voice in the desert -[4937.92 --> 4939.04] Crying -[4939.04 --> 4942.14] Prepare you the way of the Lord -[4942.14 --> 4944.52] Be boldly come -[4944.52 --> 4947.02] Riding on the clouds -[4947.02 --> 4949.34] Shining like the sun -[4949.34 --> 4951.78] At the trumpet calls -[4951.78 --> 4953.76] Lift your voice -[4953.76 --> 4955.92] Hear and dear believe -[4955.92 --> 4958.14] God of Zion's hill -[4958.14 --> 4961.14] Salvation and God -[4961.14 --> 4971.92] And these are the days of Ezekiel -[4972.46 --> 4976.64] The tribun's becoming as flesh -[4976.64 --> 4981.10] And these are the days of your servant -[4981.10 --> 4983.26] And gave every building -[4983.26 --> 4985.86] A temple of grace -[4985.86 --> 4990.88] And these are the days of the harvest -[4990.88 --> 4995.26] The fields are as white in the world -[4995.26 --> 5000.32] And we are the laborers in your opinion -[5000.32 --> 5003.76] Declaring the word of the Lord -[5003.76 --> 5006.10] Be boldly come -[5006.10 --> 5008.48] Riding on the clouds -[5008.48 --> 5010.10] Shining like the sun -[5010.10 --> 5013.16] At the trumpet call -[5013.16 --> 5015.20] Lift your voice -[5015.20 --> 5017.32] Year of jubilee -[5017.32 --> 5019.58] Lord of Zion's hill -[5019.58 --> 5022.26] Salvation has come -[5022.26 --> 5032.64] There's no God like Jehovah -[5032.64 --> 5036.86] There's no God like Jehovah -[5036.86 --> 5041.36] There's no God like Jehovah -[5041.36 --> 5055.36] There's no God like Jehovah -[5055.36 --> 5062.36] Behold it come, riding on the clouds, shining like the sun -[5062.36 --> 5069.36] At the trumpet call, lift your voice, the year of jupilee -[5069.36 --> 5073.36] When God of Zion tells salvation comes -[5073.36 --> 5080.36] Behold it come, riding on the clouds, shining like the sun -[5080.36 --> 5087.36] At the trumpet call, lift your voice, the year of jupilee -[5087.36 --> 5094.36] When God of Zion tells salvation comes -[5094.36 --> 5097.36] Man -[5097.36 --> 5104.36] The way that you move me takes me far away -[5104.36 --> 5115.36] Love me, traces I can sense you in everything -[5115.36 --> 5122.36] The way that you move me takes me far away -[5122.36 --> 5125.36] I seek no escape -[5125.36 --> 5130.36] I'm dreaming through your eyes -[5130.36 --> 5136.36] I am wandering through your mind -[5136.36 --> 5144.36] I'm overtaken by the way that you deliver me -[5144.36 --> 5147.36] I'm transcendent -[5147.36 --> 5150.36] There's no place I'd rather be -[5150.36 --> 5152.36] Here in the world -[5152.36 --> 5155.36] Without you I'm incomplete -[5155.36 --> 5157.36] It's hopeless -[5157.36 --> 5159.36] You consume me -[5159.36 --> 5162.36] You consume me -[5162.36 --> 5165.36] Like a burning flame -[5165.36 --> 5168.36] Running through my veins -[5168.36 --> 5170.36] You consume me -[5170.36 --> 5173.36] Moving through me -[5173.36 --> 5176.36] Anytime, anyplace -[5176.36 --> 5178.36] You invade my space -[5178.36 --> 5179.36] You consume me -[5179.36 --> 5180.36] You consume me -[5180.36 --> 5181.36] You consume me -[5181.36 --> 5182.36] You consume me -[5182.36 --> 5183.36] You consume me -[5183.36 --> 5184.36] You consume me -[5184.36 --> 5187.36] You consume me -[5187.36 --> 5189.36] Holy, devoted -[5189.36 --> 5191.36] I immerse myself in you -[5191.36 --> 5192.36] You baptize me -[5192.36 --> 5194.36] You baptize me -[5194.36 --> 5195.36] In your love -[5195.36 --> 5196.36] Cause drowning in the thought of you -[5196.36 --> 5197.36] You're my soul -[5197.36 --> 5201.36] I'm shaken by the things you do -[5201.36 --> 5202.36] You do -[5202.36 --> 5204.36] You know what I'm missing -[5204.36 --> 5206.36] Doesn't matter what I lose -[5206.36 --> 5207.36] I'm your soul -[5207.36 --> 5208.36] I'm your soul -[5208.36 --> 5209.36] I'm your soul -[5209.36 --> 5210.36] I'm your soul -[5210.36 --> 5211.36] I'm your soul -[5211.36 --> 5212.36] I'm your soul -[5212.36 --> 5213.36] I'm your soul -[5213.36 --> 5214.36] I'm your soul -[5214.36 --> 5215.36] I'm your soul -[5215.36 --> 5216.36] You consume me -[5216.36 --> 5217.36] You consume me -[5217.36 --> 5218.36] You consume me -[5218.36 --> 5219.36] You consume me -[5219.36 --> 5220.36] I'm your soul -[5220.36 --> 5221.36] I'm your soul -[5221.36 --> 5222.36] You consume me -[5222.36 --> 5224.36] You consume me -[5224.36 --> 5227.36] Like a burning flame -[5227.36 --> 5229.36] Running through my veins -[5229.36 --> 5232.36] You consume me -[5232.36 --> 5233.36] You consume me -[5233.36 --> 5235.36] Moving through me -[5235.36 --> 5237.36] Anytime, anyplace -[5237.36 --> 5240.36] You invade my space -[5240.36 --> 5242.36] You consume me -[5242.36 --> 5247.56] Oh yes, you consume me -[5248.36 --> 5253.56] You consume me -[5253.56 --> 5257.56] I am in your hands -[5257.56 --> 5259.56] Under your coat -[5259.56 --> 5263.56] Like a carpet on a string -[5263.56 --> 5266.36] I am willing to -[5266.36 --> 5268.36] I am willing to -[5268.36 --> 5270.36] And my feelings -[5270.36 --> 5272.36] I'll be all alone -[5272.36 --> 5274.36] I should -[5274.36 --> 5280.36] You consume me -[5284.36 --> 5290.36] You consume me -[5296.36 --> 5308.36] You consume me -[5308.36 --> 5310.36] Moving through me -[5310.36 --> 5314.36] Anytime, anyplace -[5314.36 --> 5316.36] You evade my space -[5316.36 --> 5318.36] You consume me -[5318.36 --> 5320.36] I am in your hands -[5320.36 --> 5322.36] I am consuming -[5322.36 --> 5324.36] I am consuming -[5324.36 --> 5326.36] I am consuming -[5326.36 --> 5327.36] I am consuming -[5327.36 --> 5328.36] I am consuming -[5328.36 --> 5332.36] There is no other way -[5332.36 --> 5334.36] I can fly -[5334.36 --> 5336.36] It's you and I -[5336.36 --> 5338.36] You and I -[5338.36 --> 5342.36] There is no other way -[5342.36 --> 5344.36] I can fly -[5344.36 --> 5346.36] It's you and I -[5346.36 --> 5348.36] You and I -[5348.36 --> 5350.36] You and I -[5350.36 --> 5352.36] In my hands -[5352.36 --> 5354.36] you and I -[5354.36 --> 5356.36] You and I -[5356.36 --> 5358.36] You and I -[5358.36 --> 5362.36] Do one other way -[5362.36 --> 5364.36] I can fly -[5364.36 --> 5366.36] I am consuming -[5366.36 --> 5367.36] Anyway -[5367.36 --> 5368.36] If I also -[5368.36 --> 5370.36] You and I -[5370.36 --> 5371.16] You may -[5371.16 --> 5372.36] When I'm off -[5372.36 --> 5373.36] Your feet -[5373.36 --> 5374.36] I am destructive -[5374.36 --> 5375.36] If I die -[5375.36 --> 5376.28] You are -[5376.28 --> 5377.36] Your feet -[5377.36 --> 5396.38] Dear father, please. -[5397.28 --> 5399.28] Oh, I need you. -[5399.28 --> 5404.36] Walking down this desert road -[5404.36 --> 5407.52] Water for my thirsty soul -[5407.52 --> 5408.94] I need you -[5408.94 --> 5412.32] Oh, I need you -[5412.32 --> 5415.20] Your forgiveness -[5415.20 --> 5422.38] Is like sweet, sweet honey on my lips -[5422.38 --> 5428.50] Like the sound of a symphony to my ears -[5428.50 --> 5435.28] Like holy water on my skin -[5435.28 --> 5450.22] Dead men walking, slaved to sin -[5450.22 --> 5453.44] I wanna know about being born again -[5453.44 --> 5454.98] I need you -[5454.98 --> 5458.22] Oh, God, I need you -[5458.22 --> 5463.50] So take me to the riverside -[5463.50 --> 5466.00] Take me under bath -[5466.00 --> 5468.14] Cause I need you -[5468.14 --> 5471.64] Oh, God, I need you -[5471.64 --> 5474.40] Your forgiveness -[5474.40 --> 5481.00] Is like sweet, sweet honey on my lips -[5481.00 --> 5487.78] Like the sound of a symphony to my ears -[5487.78 --> 5494.56] Like holy water on my skin -[5494.56 --> 5502.34] Almost a symphony to my heart -[5502.34 --> 5509.46] I don't wanna abuse your grace -[5509.46 --> 5512.38] God, I need it every day -[5512.38 --> 5518.16] It's the only thing that ever really makes me wanna change -[5518.16 --> 5522.16] I don't wanna abuse your grace -[5522.16 --> 5525.50] God, I need it every day -[5525.50 --> 5532.28] It's the only thing that ever really makes me wanna change -[5532.28 --> 5536.06] I don't wanna abuse your grace -[5536.06 --> 5537.06] God, I need it every day -[5537.06 --> 5538.06] God, I need it every day -[5538.06 --> 5539.06] God, I need it every day -[5539.06 --> 5543.84] It's the only thing that ever really makes me wanna change -[5543.84 --> 5546.26] I don't wanna abuse your grace -[5546.26 --> 5547.00] God, I need it every day -[5547.00 --> 5549.62] God, I need it every day -[5549.62 --> 5551.62] It's the only thing that ever really makes me wanna change -[5551.62 --> 5558.08] Is the only thing that ever really makes me want to change -[5558.08 --> 5559.84] Your forgiveness -[5559.84 --> 5566.96] Is like sweet, sweet honey on my lips -[5566.96 --> 5573.28] Like the sound of a symphony to my ears -[5573.28 --> 5577.06] It's like hold me -[5577.06 --> 5579.56] Your forgiveness -[5579.56 --> 5586.66] Is like sweet, sweet honey on my lips -[5586.66 --> 5593.38] Like the sound of a symphony to my ears -[5593.38 --> 5599.64] It's like holy water on my skin -[5599.64 --> 5606.22] It's like holy water on my skin -[5606.22 --> 5611.26] It's like holy water -[5611.26 --> 5618.36] It's like holy water on my skin diff --git a/Sunday Worship Service - May 2 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship Service - May 2 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index bcc86e5aafb8835954b18e43bb45f9a31d27bd96..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship Service - May 2 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,85 +0,0 @@ -• Worship service at Langley Emanuel -• Baptism of Anna Kleingeltink -• Nomination process for church activities -• Invitation to Zoom coffee meeting after the service -• Call to worship from Psalm 34 -• Prayer and invocation of God's glory -• Opening hymn and singing -• Singing a new song to the Lord and seeking His kingdom -• Prayer of confession: thanking God for mercies, acknowledging control issues, and praying for trust and open hearts -• Baptism of infant Anna Kleingelting as a sign of covenant and promise of forgiveness and life in the Holy Spirit -• God promised Abraham two things: offspring and land, but the heart of the covenant was God's promise to be a God to Abraham and his children. -• The Old Testament practice of circumcision is similar to baptism as it signifies inclusion in the covenant community and cleansing from sin. -• Baptism seals adoption as children of God, writes God's name on their forehead, and gives them a new identity in Jesus Christ. -• Anna, the child being baptized, should take advantage of her covenant privileges and acknowledge her Lord all days of her life by faith. -• Nathan and Maria promise to instruct Anna and lead her into Christian discipleship. -• The church welcomes Anna as a covenant member and asks for their support and love towards Nathan and Maria and their family. -• The congregation promises to teach the gospel, be an example of Christian faith, and give strong support to God's family in fellowship, prayer, and service. -• Baptism of Anna -• Prayer for blessing and guidance -• Recognition of recent births in the congregation -• Song performance of "How Deep the Father's Love for Us" -• Congratulatory gift for Anna -• Sharing of scripture (John 3:16) with children -• The speaker greets a child named Lammy and mentions that they've missed each other -• A colorful coat made by Lammy's mother is shown, similar to the story being read from the Bible -• The story of Joseph from the Bible is read aloud, including his special coat and his brothers' jealousy -• Joseph is sold into slavery, but later becomes the ruler of Egypt and forgives his brothers after they come for food during a famine -• The speaker reflects on the story's themes, including forgiveness, God's love and care, and not boasting about one's possessions or status -• Connecting church gifts to local ministry opportunities -• Upcoming offering for Advocate, promoting human dignity and worth -• Church budget and expenses still ongoing -• Nomination of office bearers, with a list of candidates presented -• Baptism celebration for Anna, with a miraculous weather event -• Congregational prayer for various topics: - • End to the COVID-19 pandemic - • Medical professionals and those affected by the virus - • Those in medical procedures delay due to COVID-19 resources - • Social restrictions' impact on community members - • Langley Christian High School students and staff with COVID-19 - • Vaccine rollout and government wisdom - • Comfort for those grieving lost loved ones - • Repairing hurting relationships - • Brother Clarence's knee surgery recovery - • Gratitude for online service providers and Emmanuel staff -• The congregation prays for Pastor Chris to deliver a clear and bold message about Jesus -• The pastor reflects on his personal mistake from the previous week and apologizes publicly -• The congregation reads James 4:13-17 together -• The pastor discusses making plans and how they are subject to God's sovereignty -• He references the Latin phrase "DV" (Deo Valente) meaning "the Lord willing", emphasizing the importance of humility in planning -• The problem with planning is not in having a plan, but in excluding God from it -• Sovereignty of God requires active, responsive humility -• Good doctrine is practical and should impact one's life -• The sovereignty of God means God is supreme, ultimate, and authoritative over all creation -• Misconceptions about the sovereignty of God can lead to determinism or fatalism -• Proper understanding of sovereignty leads to humble dependence on God's will -• Sovereignty does not mean sitting passively waiting for events to unfold, but rather acting with humility and faith in God's care and provision -• The sovereignty of God is emphasized as the Bible teaches that God is in control and nothing happens without his will -• Human responsibility to work and be active is also a key aspect of God's sovereignty -• The two realities are not mutually exclusive, but rather complementary and wedded together -• Examples from scripture, such as Joseph's story, demonstrate how human action and God's sovereignty intersect -• Jesus' life, death, and resurrection illustrate the ultimate demonstration of God's sovereignty and human responsibility. -• Scripture from Philippians 2 on working out salvation with fear and trembling -• Baptism as an example of God's sovereignty at work -• The role of human response to God's action, including faith and obedience -• The sovereignty of God in the world, including in difficult circumstances such as a global pandemic -• The hope of the gospel and its ability to see God at work even in the midst of chaos -• The importance of recognizing and responding to God's active work in the world -• God's love and presence in one's life -• The sovereignty of God -• Invitation to join a Zoom coffee service -• Prayer for God's blessings, guidance, and protection -• Confession of sin and praise for God's forgiveness -• Worship and praise to God's holy name -• Praise and worship -• Prayer for revival, healing, and restoration -• Requests to build God's kingdom on earth -• Call to overcome darkness and fear with God's power -• Invocation of the Holy Spirit -• Declaration of faith in Jesus Christ -• Affirmation of being God's church on earth -• Prayers -• Identifying or referencing something as "倉" (kanji character) -• Relationship between people, likely referring to familiarity or connection -• Experience with snow -• Awareness of thunder \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship Service - May 2 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship Service - May 2 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2267a978f484eb822d51265104733867b9b51044..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship Service - May 2 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,926 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 10.44] With all that I am, to your throne of grace, you've done the rest. -[10.54 --> 15.76] Your cross, my confidence, your death, my plea. -[17.14 --> 22.94] Your resurrection, my cry of victory. -[22.94 --> 26.56] You fight of everything. -[26.56 --> 34.04] There's nothing left, and all I do is come. -[34.96 --> 37.98] You've done the rest. -[38.36 --> 41.32] You've done the rest. -[41.70 --> 44.60] You've done the rest. -[44.76 --> 47.50] All I do is come. -[48.50 --> 50.48] You've done the rest. -[56.56 --> 64.04] All I do is come. -[64.04 --> 64.96] All I do is come. -[64.96 --> 72.44] All I do is come. -[72.44 --> 74.44] All I do is come. -[74.44 --> 81.92] All I do is come. -[81.92 --> 83.92] All I do is come. -[83.92 --> 85.92] All I do is come. -[85.92 --> 93.40] All I do is come. -[93.40 --> 95.40] All I do is come. -[95.40 --> 99.40] All I do is come. -[99.40 --> 102.40] I know I'm alive. -[102.40 --> 105.40] I'm alive. -[105.40 --> 114.88] I know I'm alive. -[114.88 --> 118.88] I know I'm alive. -[118.88 --> 132.36] All I do is come. -[132.36 --> 145.84] All I do is come. -[145.84 --> 151.84] All I do is come. -[151.84 --> 165.32] All I do is come. -[165.32 --> 167.32] All I do is come. -[167.32 --> 169.32] All I do is come. -[169.32 --> 184.80] All I do is come. -[184.80 --> 188.80] All I do is come. -[188.80 --> 192.80] All I do is come. -[192.80 --> 206.28] You've done the rest. -[206.28 --> 210.28] All I do is come. -[210.28 --> 215.28] You've done the rest. -[215.28 --> 222.28] You've done the rest. -[222.28 --> 227.72] You've done the rest. -[227.72 --> 237.62] You've done the rest. -[237.62 --> 242.82] You've done the rest. -[242.82 --> 244.58] You've done the rest. -[244.58 --> 247.18] You've done the rest. -[247.18 --> 248.16] You've done the rest. -[248.16 --> 249.16] Amen. -[278.16 --> 280.16] Amen. -[308.16 --> 310.16] Amen. -[338.16 --> 340.16] Amen. -[368.16 --> 370.16] Amen. -[398.16 --> 400.16] Amen. -[428.16 --> 430.16] Amen. -[458.16 --> 460.16] Amen. -[488.16 --> 490.16] Amen. -[518.16 --> 520.16] Amen. -[548.16 --> 550.16] Amen. -[578.16 --> 579.16] Amen. -[586.22 --> 605.50] Good morning and welcome to worship. -[605.50 --> 608.94] We are so excited that you are here with us this morning. -[609.48 --> 612.62] My name is Chris, and I'm pastor here at Langley Emanuel, -[612.76 --> 615.58] and it is my privilege, along with those whom you see on stage -[615.58 --> 618.10] and a few others here in the building, -[618.30 --> 622.56] to lead you and provide this opportunity to worship together. -[623.20 --> 626.14] Today, our service has a few different elements in it, -[626.16 --> 628.46] and we are really excited to share that with you -[628.46 --> 632.24] as we celebrate in the baptism of Anna Kleingeltink, -[632.24 --> 635.88] as we share with you some nomination process -[635.88 --> 639.62] and things that we have coming and going on here. -[639.72 --> 642.18] We are really excited just to bring that all together -[642.18 --> 645.82] into the presence of our God and praise his name for it. -[646.30 --> 649.74] I want to invite you to, after our service together, -[649.98 --> 654.46] join with other members of our church for a Zoom coffee meeting -[654.46 --> 657.44] that will take place beginning around 1130. -[657.54 --> 660.88] The link for that is in the e-bulletin that you should have received. -[660.88 --> 664.10] And you can click on that link and join us -[664.10 --> 668.42] as we spend time sharing life and story together in that moment. -[669.08 --> 672.60] We gather because God has called us to worship him. -[672.76 --> 675.92] We gather because God carries us into his presence -[675.92 --> 680.38] that he might welcome us here and feed our souls. -[680.62 --> 683.62] And so wherever you are, I invite you to open your heart, -[683.78 --> 687.28] open your hands, stand, take on whatever posture you need to -[687.28 --> 692.74] to receive the greeting of our God as he welcomes us into worship today. -[694.74 --> 699.52] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, -[699.62 --> 702.40] from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, -[702.86 --> 705.60] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[706.50 --> 707.10] Amen. -[707.94 --> 708.78] Worship God together. -[708.78 --> 718.96] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 34. -[720.68 --> 724.08] Taste and see that the Lord is good. -[725.22 --> 728.22] Blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. -[729.66 --> 732.78] Fear the Lord, you his holy people. -[732.78 --> 736.58] For those who fear him lack nothing. -[736.58 --> 740.48] The lions may grow weak and hungry, -[740.96 --> 745.08] but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing. -[745.08 --> 768.76] Our Father who art in heaven, -[768.76 --> 769.76] come and let your glory come and let your glory come. -[769.76 --> 773.92] Hallowed be thy name. -[774.76 --> 779.76] Come and let your glory come and let your glory come. -[781.76 --> 786.58] Our Father who art in heaven, -[787.48 --> 790.76] the rocks cry out your fame. -[791.76 --> 796.76] Come and let your glory come and let your glory come. -[796.76 --> 803.76] I will sing, sing, sing a new song. -[803.76 --> 807.76] I will sing, sing a new song. -[807.76 --> 814.76] I will sing, sing a new song to the Lord. -[817.14 --> 820.76] Let your kingdom come, let your will be done. -[820.76 --> 821.76] God, give us new song. -[821.76 --> 824.76] On earth as it is in heaven. -[824.76 --> 829.76] Every heart will play, it's the first day of your name. -[829.76 --> 833.76] On earth as it is in heaven. -[833.76 --> 834.76] God, give us new song. -[834.76 --> 846.76] God, give us new every morning. -[846.76 --> 850.76] Mercy as daily bread. -[850.76 --> 851.76] Please join, amen. -[851.76 --> 852.76] In the name of Jesus. -[852.76 --> 859.76] In the name of Jesus, in the name of Jesus we pray. -[859.76 --> 869.36] And lead us not to temptation, but deliver us with your hand. -[869.90 --> 877.50] In the name of Jesus, in the name of Jesus we pray, Father we pray. -[877.50 --> 894.64] I will sing, sing a new song to the Lord. -[895.14 --> 903.18] Let your kingdom come, let your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. -[903.18 --> 911.98] Every heart will praise the mercy of your name, on earth as it is in heaven. -[912.58 --> 919.76] For the kingdom is yours, and the power is yours, and glory forever, amen. -[921.12 --> 928.36] And the kingdom is yours, and the power is yours, and glory forever, amen. -[928.36 --> 936.76] For the kingdom is yours, and the power is yours, and glory forever, amen. -[937.96 --> 945.82] And the kingdom is yours, and the power is yours, and glory forever, amen. -[946.32 --> 954.56] Let your kingdom come, let your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. -[954.56 --> 963.04] Every heart proclaim the mercy of your name, on earth as it is in heaven. -[963.38 --> 971.38] Let your kingdom come, let your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. -[972.02 --> 979.84] Every heart proclaim the mercy of your name, on earth as it is in heaven. -[979.84 --> 981.84] Amen. -[981.84 --> 982.50] Amen. -[994.50 --> 997.86] Pray with me this morning our prayer of confession. -[1000.18 --> 1006.78] Father God, giver of all good gifts, sustainer of life, our provider, -[1006.78 --> 1012.08] we pray that you will help us to see your mercies new every morning. -[1013.14 --> 1014.52] Help us to be thankful. -[1015.76 --> 1018.56] Help us to know your goodness and trust in it. -[1019.32 --> 1022.56] We so often try to control what we think we can, -[1023.34 --> 1026.24] and struggle against a world that says it has it all. -[1027.02 --> 1029.74] But you are the only true provider. -[1030.82 --> 1033.90] We pray for your mercy when we don't trust in you. -[1033.90 --> 1037.88] We pray for hearts open to receive your gifts. -[1038.88 --> 1043.04] Thank you that every good and perfect gift comes from you. -[1044.04 --> 1044.38] Amen. -[1044.38 --> 1044.54] Amen. -[1044.54 --> 1044.56] Amen. -[1044.56 --> 1044.58] Amen. -[1044.58 --> 1044.62] Amen. -[1044.62 --> 1046.62] Amen. -[1046.62 --> 1048.62] Amen. -[1048.62 --> 1050.62] Amen. -[1050.62 --> 1052.62] Amen. -[1052.62 --> 1053.62] Amen. -[1053.62 --> 1054.62] Amen. -[1054.62 --> 1055.62] Amen. -[1055.62 --> 1056.62] Amen. -[1056.62 --> 1057.62] Amen. -[1057.62 --> 1059.62] Amen. -[1059.62 --> 1060.62] Amen. -[1060.62 --> 1061.62] Amen. -[1061.62 --> 1062.62] Amen. -[1063.90 --> 1064.28] Amen. -[1064.28 --> 1064.52] Amen. -[1089.96 --> 1092.10] Amen. -[1092.10 --> 1092.20] Amen. -[1092.20 --> 1092.56] Amen. -[1092.56 --> 1093.88] Amen. -[1093.88 --> 1116.08] Oh Lord, you are my home, your promise never fails me, and my desire is to follow you forever. -[1116.08 --> 1137.94] For you are good. For you are good. For you are good to me. -[1137.94 --> 1155.02] I cry out for your hand of mercy to heal me. I am weak. I need your love to free me. -[1155.02 --> 1175.06] O Lord, my wrath, my strength and weakness, come rescue me. O Lord, you are my hope. -[1175.06 --> 1189.16] Your promise never fails me. And my desire is to follow you forever. -[1190.22 --> 1198.56] For you are good. For you are good. For you are good to me. -[1198.56 --> 1214.36] For you are good. For you are good. For you are good to me. -[1214.38 --> 1226.22] For you are good. For you are good. For you are good to me. -[1228.56 --> 1239.54] It is our privilege this morning to administer the sacrament of baptism to one of our little -[1239.54 --> 1241.88] children, Anna Kleingelting. -[1242.50 --> 1247.24] Now, we do not believe that there is anything magical about the water that we apply to the -[1247.24 --> 1247.54] child. -[1247.64 --> 1251.62] The water does not wash away original sin or save the child, right? -[1251.62 --> 1256.00] Only Jesus' life, death, and resurrection does that. -[1256.00 --> 1263.76] We believe that this child, as beautiful as she is, is sinful by nature and that the promises -[1263.76 --> 1268.34] of God for forgiveness and life in the Holy Spirit are offered to her. -[1269.16 --> 1274.74] We baptize infants not out of superstition or tradition or because we like really cute babies -[1274.74 --> 1275.24] and kids. -[1275.50 --> 1281.88] We baptize infants because they are covenant children and therefore should receive the sign -[1281.88 --> 1283.10] of the covenant. -[1283.10 --> 1287.70] In Genesis 15, God made a covenant with Abraham. -[1288.42 --> 1292.20] The covenant was sealed with the sign of circumcision in Genesis 17. -[1293.06 --> 1294.96] God promised to bless Abraham. -[1295.98 --> 1300.48] For Abraham, this meant two things, offspring and land. -[1301.54 --> 1307.44] That the heart of the covenant was God's promise that he would be a God to Abraham and his children. -[1307.44 --> 1315.70] So God cut a covenant into Israel's flesh, carving out a people for himself, and they would be -[1315.70 --> 1318.36] a light home for all of humanity. -[1319.36 --> 1325.40] In the fullness of time, God sent his son, Jesus, to be our savior. -[1325.40 --> 1330.56] And in his death on the cross, our old self is dead and buried. -[1330.72 --> 1338.04] And in his resurrection, we are rising again to new life and look forward now to his ultimate -[1338.04 --> 1339.72] and glorious new creation. -[1340.72 --> 1341.76] We are baptized. -[1342.24 --> 1347.28] And when we are baptized in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, the -[1347.28 --> 1350.56] triune God seals our adoption as his children. -[1351.10 --> 1358.70] And he writes his name invisibly on our forehead, saying, you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, -[1358.76 --> 1361.70] a holy nation, a people belonging to God. -[1362.40 --> 1366.68] Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God. -[1366.68 --> 1372.12] By baptism, we have a new identity in Jesus Christ. -[1373.36 --> 1377.14] And so, we come to administer the sacrament of baptism. -[1378.38 --> 1385.04] We do so to Anna today with the weight of church history to encourage us and the example of redemptive -[1385.04 --> 1387.24] history to confirm our practice. -[1388.34 --> 1390.96] We baptize in obedience to Christ's command. -[1390.96 --> 1397.52] The sacrament that we are about to administer is a sign of inclusion in the covenant community -[1397.52 --> 1398.70] as circumcision was. -[1399.14 --> 1404.34] And the water that we are about to pour is a sign of cleansing from sin as the sprinkled -[1404.34 --> 1407.00] blood of bulls and goats in the Old Testament was. -[1407.96 --> 1413.82] We pray that Anna will take advantage of all her covenant privileges, that she will acknowledge -[1413.82 --> 1418.88] her Lord all the days of her life and by faith make these promises her own. -[1418.88 --> 1426.16] Nathan and Maria, since you have presented Anna for baptism, I'm going to ask you the following -[1426.16 --> 1432.16] questions before God and before his people gathered here and present with us on screen. -[1434.56 --> 1439.88] Nathan and Maria, do you believe that your children, those sinful by nature, are received -[1439.88 --> 1444.40] by God in Christ as members of his covenant and therefore ought to be baptized? -[1444.40 --> 1450.24] And do you promise, in reliance on the Holy Spirit and with the help of the Christian community, -[1450.24 --> 1456.14] to do all in your power to instruct Anna and all your children in the Christian faith and -[1456.14 --> 1460.00] lead them by your example into the life of Christian discipleship? -[1460.68 --> 1461.40] What is your answer? -[1463.18 --> 1463.70] Amen. -[1463.70 --> 1469.58] Our Lord said, let the little children come to me and do not hinder them for the kingdom -[1469.58 --> 1471.24] of God belongs to such of these. -[1471.68 --> 1475.60] And in ordinary times and circumstances, I would invite all the kids to the front. -[1475.78 --> 1481.16] And so if you are participating at home in today's service, I want to invite you as kids -[1481.16 --> 1485.90] to come as close to the TV or the computer screen or whatever you're watching and participating -[1485.90 --> 1487.96] on as your parents will allow. -[1487.96 --> 1492.42] Again, in ordinary times, I would do this in such a way that when I put it out of the -[1492.42 --> 1493.60] water, you would get all wet. -[1493.80 --> 1496.12] And so that's not going to happen through the TV. -[1497.02 --> 1503.66] But know that we together as a body of believers, as a church, are one family. -[1504.10 --> 1509.34] Today, we're blessed to welcome Anna, the covenant member of that family. -[1517.96 --> 1526.72] Yes, other kids. -[1526.98 --> 1527.44] That's right. -[1527.68 --> 1528.60] Why don't you come on up? -[1528.98 --> 1530.10] Thank you for the reminder. -[1543.10 --> 1543.96] All right. -[1543.96 --> 1548.28] Can you guys all see? -[1549.12 --> 1549.42] Yeah? -[1549.60 --> 1549.96] All right. -[1554.68 --> 1559.00] Anna, Emily, Alicia, Klein-Gelting. -[1559.16 --> 1567.12] I baptize you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. -[1568.86 --> 1569.30] Amen. -[1569.30 --> 1569.40] Amen. -[1573.96 --> 1593.80] As Anna has been baptized, we have an opportunity to also participate as a family of believers, -[1594.24 --> 1598.10] family both here gathered and family church participating digitally. -[1598.10 --> 1600.28] And so I'm going to ask you a question. -[1600.82 --> 1606.24] And even if you're at home, I want to invite you to respond with, we do, God helping us, -[1606.34 --> 1609.12] or we do, or however you choose to respond. -[1610.02 --> 1615.38] And so, people of God gathered here today, do you promise to love, encourage, and support -[1615.38 --> 1621.88] Nathan and Maria and Anna and Joel and Kezia and Marcus and Julia by teaching the gospel -[1621.88 --> 1629.12] of God's love, by being an example of Christian faith and character, and by giving strong support -[1629.12 --> 1633.00] to God's family in fellowship, in prayer, and in service? -[1633.18 --> 1634.12] What is your answer? -[1637.24 --> 1641.58] And in case you couldn't hear that on screen, they did say we do, and I trust you did at home -[1641.58 --> 1642.64] as well. -[1642.64 --> 1654.80] Anna, Emily, Alicia, the Lord bless you and keep you. -[1655.44 --> 1658.52] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[1659.02 --> 1663.06] The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace. -[1663.82 --> 1670.10] In this way, the Lord puts his name on Anna and makes her his own. -[1670.90 --> 1671.22] Amen. -[1671.22 --> 1671.36] Amen. -[1672.64 --> 1675.40] I'm going to invite Ken to come forward as an elder of church. -[1675.70 --> 1677.76] He's going to offer a prayer and share a gift. -[1678.72 --> 1684.80] Well, before I lead you in a word of prayer, I want to say this is actually awesome. -[1685.14 --> 1689.04] We haven't been able to do this in a long time and see and witness a baptism in a long -[1689.04 --> 1692.18] time, so it's just wonderful to be able to be here. -[1692.36 --> 1695.12] So let me lead you guys in a prayer of blessing. -[1696.18 --> 1699.02] Father in heaven, Lord, we come to you this day. -[1699.02 --> 1705.50] We thank you and we praise your name for allowing this baptism to take place. -[1705.50 --> 1707.50] Father, for allowing us to witness this. -[1708.30 --> 1715.12] Father, we now pray that you will be with Anna and that you will bless her in the days, -[1715.24 --> 1716.32] weeks, and years to come. -[1716.64 --> 1722.86] Father, that you will give her a measure of your Holy Spirit, that she may grow in love -[1722.86 --> 1725.32] and faith towards you each and every day. -[1726.40 --> 1731.98] And Father, we pray also for her parents, Nathan and Maria, as they have been tasked with the -[1731.98 --> 1736.08] duty of raising her in the fear and love of your name. -[1736.30 --> 1742.62] Father, give them all that they are in need of as well, as she will grow up to become a -[1742.62 --> 1746.18] member and a servant of yours. -[1746.18 --> 1752.92] Father, we pray also for the rest of the community of Emmanuel, that we too will be a hand and foot -[1752.92 --> 1760.78] to Anna as she walks her faith in the church, in her church community. -[1761.82 --> 1764.38] Father, we praise you for this time. -[1765.14 --> 1769.76] And we also thank you for the other recent births in our congregation. -[1769.76 --> 1775.18] We pray that in the near future, we may witness those baptisms as well. -[1776.02 --> 1779.16] And Father, in the meantime, we pray that you will be with those children and their mothers. -[1779.38 --> 1781.64] And Father, you will give them all that they are in need of. -[1782.42 --> 1788.16] We thank you that through this baptism, we see your faithfulness to the generations. -[1788.58 --> 1793.50] And Father, we also know that through the death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, -[1793.64 --> 1796.20] Jesus Christ, you show your deep love for us all. -[1796.56 --> 1798.08] And it is in his name we pray. -[1798.08 --> 1798.66] Amen. -[1799.76 --> 1805.14] And we have just a small gift for you here, just a congratulations. -[1805.14 --> 1807.48] So I suppose, do you want to take it? -[1808.28 --> 1808.60] Yeah? -[1809.06 --> 1809.94] There we go. -[1810.82 --> 1811.30] Awesome. -[1811.46 --> 1812.26] So congratulations. -[1812.26 --> 1824.62] Seth and I had the privilege of leading yesterday, the family in a song, -[1824.82 --> 1828.06] and their selection was how deep the Father's love for us. -[1828.58 --> 1833.80] And we would love to sing that together as a church family in recognition of this baptism. -[1833.80 --> 1835.30] I'm going to sing that together as a. -[1835.30 --> 1846.60] Amen. -[1846.60 --> 1865.02] How deep the Father's love for us -[1865.02 --> 1870.22] How vast beyond all measure -[1870.22 --> 1877.72] That He should give His only Son -[1877.72 --> 1883.26] To make a wretch His treasure -[1883.26 --> 1890.56] How deep the pain of searing loss -[1890.56 --> 1896.88] The Father turns His face away -[1896.88 --> 1903.20] As wounds which for the chosen one -[1903.20 --> 1908.88] Bring many sons to glory -[1908.88 --> 1925.88] Behold the manna upon the cross -[1925.88 --> 1932.20] My sin upon His shoulders -[1932.20 --> 1938.88] Ashamed I hear my knocking doors -[1939.56 --> 1946.08] Call out among the sorrows -[1946.08 --> 1952.40] It was not sin that held Him bare -[1952.40 --> 1958.08] Until it was accomplished -[1958.08 --> 1965.40] His dying breath has brought me by -[1965.40 --> 1971.72] I know that it is in Him -[1971.72 --> 1988.04] I will not boast in anything -[1988.04 --> 1994.36] No gifts, no power, no wisdom -[1994.36 --> 2002.68] But I will boast in Jesus Christ -[2002.68 --> 2007.68] His death and resurrection -[2007.68 --> 2014.00] Why should I gain from His reward -[2014.00 --> 2020.32] I cannot give an answer -[2020.32 --> 2026.64] But this I know in all my heart -[2026.64 --> 2032.96] His wounds have made my ransom -[2032.96 --> 2039.28] His wounds have made my ransom -[2039.28 --> 2047.60] His wounds have made my ransom -[2047.60 --> 2053.92] But this I know in all my heart -[2053.92 --> 2055.92] His wounds have made my ransom -[2055.92 --> 2064.24] His wounds are made my ransom -[2064.24 --> 2066.24] I know in all my heart -[2066.24 --> 2068.56] My heart is made my ransom -[2068.56 --> 2070.56] And I know that it is in Him -[2070.56 --> 2072.56] I know that it is in Him -[2072.56 --> 2074.56] But this is the truth -[2074.56 --> 2076.56] I know that it is in Him -[2076.56 --> 2078.56] And I know that it is in Him -[2078.56 --> 2081.18] Soورine -[2081.18 --> 2084.06] Donor -[2084.06 --> 2084.58] Herzog -[2084.58 --> 2085.90] God -[2085.90 --> 2086.82] Thorf -[2086.82 --> 2086.98] G -[2086.98 --> 2087.86] e -[2087.86 --> 2088.98] God -[2088.98 --> 2089.48] Adam -[2089.48 --> 2090.66] Tim -[2090.66 --> 2091.18] Bonnie -[2091.18 --> 2093.52] Sh -[2093.52 --> 2095.58] Gym -[2095.58 --> 2096.58] Way -[2096.58 --> 2097.66] J -[2097.66 --> 2097.74] bad -[2108.56 --> 2118.52] Hi kids! Hey, it's so good to see you. It's been such a long time and I'm so glad to see you, -[2118.52 --> 2124.32] even if it's on a screen, but that's okay. And first of all, what we're going to do is do our -[2124.32 --> 2128.88] memory verse and we have Ruby to do that for us. So here's Ruby. -[2128.88 --> 2141.04] For God so loved the world he gave his one and only that whoever believes in him. So not perish, -[2142.00 --> 2145.52] but have eternal life. John 3 16. -[2149.68 --> 2155.20] So first of all, to come up a little closer to the screen so you can see a little bit better -[2155.20 --> 2163.36] and then you can see what's going on. Okay? Now we've missed each other a long time and also -[2163.36 --> 2174.56] I think you've probably missed Lammy! There's Lammy! Hi Lammy! Oh, Lammy! I'm so glad to see you. Oh, -[2174.56 --> 2180.64] and he's so glad to see you too. Yes, do you remember what Lammy would do? He'd go around and -[2180.64 --> 2188.00] give everybody a hug and give everybody a hug and if they want to do a tickle and he can't do that now, -[2188.00 --> 2196.40] but you know what? I get a hug. And a tickle. Oh, oh oh oh oh! Oh dear! Oh Lammy! Okay. Hey Lammy, -[2196.40 --> 2205.92] I see that you brought something today. Oh, she wants to show it. Oh, that's beautiful. It's a coat. -[2206.56 --> 2214.88] that's a beautiful coat it's a coat that's very colorful oh lambie where did you get that from -[2216.00 --> 2223.60] oh lambie said that his mummy made it and he's very proud of it so he's gonna put it on let's see -[2224.16 --> 2233.52] okay lambie's gonna put this colorful coat on oh oh he's so happy oh he said his mom made it and -[2233.52 --> 2243.92] he feels very special he's he's oh he even said he said that his mom thinks he thinks his mom loves -[2243.92 --> 2250.56] him the best because she made a special coat oh you know what lambie it's very similar to what the -[2250.56 --> 2258.56] story is about today and we're going to read it today in a story bible but first of all our story -[2258.56 --> 2272.16] is from the bible let's all sing that little song together okay the b-i-b-l-e yes that's the book for -[2272.16 --> 2286.32] me i stand alone on the word of god the b-i-b-l-e very good that's an easy song to remember i think a lot of -[2286.32 --> 2291.28] you remember it so now we're going to go to our story you want to listen to the story too -[2292.08 --> 2298.24] lambie does too and so maybe you can all come a little closer and see that see some of the um -[2298.24 --> 2304.64] pictures okay maybe you'll even remember this book that i sometimes would read with you -[2305.68 --> 2314.00] okay and i wonder if you remember now know what kind of story it's going to be because lambie was -[2314.00 --> 2327.44] wearing a colorful coat who do you think it's going to be vote joseph good good job okay so there is the -[2327.44 --> 2336.08] picture see he's a young boy just that maybe a little bit older than some of you but probably maybe -[2336.08 --> 2348.00] about 10 or 12. anyways here he is joseph jacob had 12 sons but he loved his son joseph the best -[2349.04 --> 2359.12] jacob gave joseph a special coat his brothers were jealous and hated joseph oh dear they do not look very happy -[2359.12 --> 2370.88] happy one night joseph dreamed that his father and brothers bowed down to him oh he's still wearing this colorful coat -[2375.76 --> 2385.04] joseph told his family about his dream his father was angry his brothers laughed they would never bow down to joseph -[2385.04 --> 2389.52] joseph oh they don't look too happy do they -[2392.08 --> 2399.44] joseph's brothers looked after sheep one day joseph went out to his fields to see his brothers -[2399.44 --> 2404.40] they saw him coming oh he's still wearing his colorful coat -[2404.40 --> 2414.16] they jumped on joseph and they took him took took off his coat they threw him into a deep pit -[2415.76 --> 2417.04] that looks pretty scary -[2423.76 --> 2430.24] then the brothers sold joseph to some strangers they took joseph to the land of egypt -[2430.24 --> 2440.88] and he's all tied up and they're gonna take him they won't see him again then then the brothers took -[2440.88 --> 2450.64] joseph's coat to their father jacob he thought that an animal had eaten joseph he was very sad -[2450.64 --> 2457.68] and his mom is sad and his mom is sad and joseph was gone far away -[2459.84 --> 2468.96] later joseph became the ruler of egypt one year there was no rain and no food but joseph had saved food -[2468.96 --> 2483.60] for egypt that's where the pyramids are far away joseph's brothers came to egypt for food they didn't -[2483.60 --> 2491.20] know that the ruler was their brother joseph's brothers asked the ruler for food and they bowed down -[2491.20 --> 2504.64] just like joseph said in the dream joseph said i am your brother i love you i forgive you for selling me -[2506.24 --> 2514.72] oh that's after many many years of not seeing his family joseph told his brothers go home and bring -[2514.72 --> 2528.64] back my father jacob was happy to see his son joseph was a good ruler he was a good son and he forgave his -[2528.64 --> 2541.28] brothers oh isn't that a good story i think so in that story we learn a lot of things that's why god gave -[2541.28 --> 2549.04] us the bible stories because in that bible story we can learn about forgiveness and we can learn about -[2549.76 --> 2555.12] how god cares for us even though we're a long but i haven't seen each other for a long long time -[2556.00 --> 2563.68] and what else is there can you think of some other things that you can learn from that story maybe about -[2563.68 --> 2574.24] being about forgiving maybe about maybe not boasting but most of all i hope that you know that god loves -[2574.24 --> 2583.60] you and god forgives you and me and everyone who asks for forgiveness isn't that a nice story then yes -[2584.40 --> 2590.80] old man he said he doesn't think that he's very special he's special but also his brothers and sisters to -[2590.80 --> 2601.12] his mom and he won't boast about getting a special coat okay so maybe now we should pray that's a good -[2601.12 --> 2612.24] idea let's talk to god dear father we thank you so much that you love us so much and that you forgive us -[2612.24 --> 2620.64] whenever we say we're sorry lord we thank you that we are your children and that we pray that we soon -[2620.64 --> 2628.72] they'll be back together again all together here in this church as a family thank you god amen -[2630.16 --> 2641.28] okay everybody it was so good to see you i sure hope we can get together soon okay bye -[2642.24 --> 2649.76] good morning everybody um my name is ken i'm a elder here at emmanuel and i have the privilege of -[2649.76 --> 2657.84] being here with you this morning um we will start with the uh today's offering um today's offerings are -[2657.84 --> 2668.16] for the langley emmanuel um ministry and missions and also for newground formerly known as manna newground -[2668.16 --> 2673.52] has been helping churches establish vital community ministries across the country for over 35 years -[2674.48 --> 2679.28] this ministry is all about connecting the gifts of our churches and deacon leaders to the ministry -[2679.28 --> 2685.68] opportunities in our cities and local neighborhoods and inspires hope for transformation and growth in -[2685.68 --> 2693.44] the lives of young people passionate about serving their community and next week the offering will be for -[2693.44 --> 2698.96] our advocate and advocate and advocate exists to promote the inherent worth and dignity of every human -[2698.96 --> 2706.80] being they strive for a society in which every human life is protected respected and valued from conception -[2706.80 --> 2714.56] until natural death um please keep in mind also that the uh budget of the church the expenses of the -[2714.56 --> 2720.88] church are still ongoing at this time as well and um please give generously as you are able -[2723.44 --> 2728.24] to the church the church the church is protected and um i also have the privilege of um bringing to you -[2729.68 --> 2739.36] the names of office bearers that have been nominated um we are absolutely excited and um just -[2739.36 --> 2747.60] feeling very very blessed by god to um have brought forth all of these names we we have um we have more names -[2747.60 --> 2762.24] than we have offices so um it's just a very exciting time uh for for our church um so i will share with you uh the list of candidates here -[2763.84 --> 2772.32] um these names will pre be presented uh for the next two weeks after which we will do an electronic vote for -[2772.32 --> 2779.44] confirmation and this will happen on may 16th if there are any concerns with any of the nominees please -[2779.44 --> 2790.16] contact your district elder or a member of council so for the office of admin elder we have pym shown -[2790.16 --> 2802.40] and peter van hewsen for the office of pastoral elder rob alkama dave harris ken hogawoning eric huberts -[2803.12 --> 2815.92] and daryl wind and for the office of deacon jeremy grim leslie cool clem molencamp mike roarsma and lena jepp kama -[2815.92 --> 2828.32] um as you all saw yesterday uh we i had the privilege of attending the baptism for anna and -[2829.52 --> 2834.72] on the way there um you could probably see on the on the video there were some pretty dark clouds around -[2834.72 --> 2840.96] so on the way there i'm on river road in glenn valley and it starts raining and it's raining pretty -[2840.96 --> 2847.52] good and i'm thinking oh no what what happens if the uh you know if it just keeps raining anyways as -[2847.52 --> 2852.00] i got there the rain sort of the rain had let up a bit but it was still cloudy still lots of dark clouds -[2852.00 --> 2859.44] so it was kind of like you know what what may or may not happen and at about well exactly just afternoon -[2859.44 --> 2866.08] everyone's there we're ready to go and the clouds part and and the sun comes out and it was just one of -[2866.08 --> 2871.20] those really cool moments where you knew that you know god was shining down on this moment and uh so -[2871.20 --> 2878.56] it's just a really neat experience so i was uh really happy to be there um so let me lead you in -[2878.56 --> 2885.92] our congregational prayer merciful god and heavenly father lord we come before you this morning with -[2885.92 --> 2891.76] thanks and praise that we can be here together again for a time of worship and a time of praise to you -[2891.76 --> 2897.92] it is a wonderful gift that we are able to worship you both in this place and from our living rooms -[2899.20 --> 2904.48] the time of restrictions for gathering are still here but it would seem there's a light at the end -[2904.48 --> 2910.08] of the tunnel and father we pray that you will bring an end to this covet pandemic very soon and that -[2910.08 --> 2916.72] we'll be able to gather fully once again we pray for those in the medical profession who are busy in -[2916.72 --> 2923.44] hospitals dealing with patients and also those in testing centers and vaccination centers as everyone -[2923.44 --> 2929.84] is working hard to get a handle on the virus we pray for those in our congregation who have been -[2929.84 --> 2936.40] diagnosed with covid and who are feeling its effects may they recover quickly and be spared from any -[2936.40 --> 2943.28] serious harm we pray for those who may be having some anxiety regarding delay to surgeries or other -[2943.28 --> 2951.20] medical procedures due to those resources being put towards the fight against covid we pray for those -[2951.20 --> 2960.40] who are shut in lonely feeling anxious and depressed during this time of social restriction father we also -[2960.40 --> 2968.56] pray for langley christian high school father there's been a few of the students and staff there that have -[2968.56 --> 2975.20] contracted the virus father we pray for healing there and we pray that the school may reopen soon -[2977.36 --> 2985.28] father we pray as the vaccine rollout continues will you grant wisdom to government and we also grant -[2985.28 --> 2992.24] patience to the people in order that we may all work towards a common goal of putting life back to normal -[2992.24 --> 3002.48] father we continue also to remember those who have lost loved ones in recent months as they can learn how to live without them -[3003.52 --> 3012.80] be near to them and provide comfort and strength as they move forward we pray for those who are struggling with hurting and broken relationships -[3013.36 --> 3019.12] father when relationships break down especially marriage relationships there's a lot of hurt and pain -[3019.12 --> 3027.92] we pray for those relationships and also for all those affected including the children a lot of times they are hurting the most -[3027.92 --> 3029.92] and father we pray that you will be near to them -[3032.48 --> 3037.28] we are thankful for the successful knee surgery that our brother clarence had done on monday -[3038.16 --> 3042.96] we pray that he will continue to heal well and be able to get back to his normal life again soon -[3042.96 --> 3050.24] we are also thankful for the people who bring these services into our homes each week there's a lot of work -[3050.24 --> 3055.68] that goes into bringing these services online and we thank you for the faithful service of all those involved -[3056.88 --> 3061.36] we also pray that you will continue to uphold the staff of emmanuel in all their daily work -[3062.16 --> 3065.04] and for the council of this church that they may govern well -[3066.88 --> 3071.52] father we are so thankful for the many names that have been put forward to serve you in our church -[3071.52 --> 3079.04] in your church it is wonderful to see so many servants willing and able to serve you in these ways -[3080.32 --> 3086.48] will you bless each of them during this process and in due time equip each one who will serve you with -[3086.48 --> 3092.40] everything they are in need of father we again thank you for the baptism that we were able to witness -[3093.20 --> 3098.16] this is truly a wonderful blessing and we pray for anna and her parents as they walk a life of service to you -[3098.16 --> 3105.76] be near also to the new mothers and babies that you have blessed them with in recent weeks be also those -[3106.48 --> 3114.80] who are expecting keep them safe and in your care father we pray that we will see as soon the sign and -[3114.80 --> 3121.20] seal of baptism for all of these babies as well and lord we pray now that you will be with pastor -[3121.20 --> 3127.04] chris as he brings us your word let him speak clearly boldly and truthfully about the good news of jesus -[3128.08 --> 3132.88] father we bring all this before you not because we deserve any of it but because you have loved us first -[3133.52 --> 3141.20] and sent our lord and savior jesus christ to die on the cross for our sins it is in his name that we pray amen -[3141.20 --> 3155.68] before i begin with uh our text this morning i need to do a bit of a mea culpa -[3157.20 --> 3163.76] and so last week if you were part of our worship service as i was preaching there i came to a point -[3163.76 --> 3168.96] where i was talking about my daughter in school and i said she was three years old instead of in grade -[3168.96 --> 3176.40] three uh well i went home after service uh and i walked into the door and nora shouts at me dad you -[3176.40 --> 3184.24] said i was three years old so i promised her that i would apologize and i believe that public sin requires -[3184.24 --> 3191.36] public confession and so the scope of my offense means the scope of my apology also has to be here -[3191.36 --> 3197.60] in front of you and so nora if you are listening or since you are listening i'm sorry -[3200.96 --> 3207.92] we're going to read together from james 4 continuing in our reading through the book of james and we're -[3207.92 --> 3214.32] going to read verse 13 to 17 together and so if you've got a bible i invite you to open that up -[3214.32 --> 3224.24] or have that in hand there with you as we go through together james 4 13 17 -[3226.72 --> 3234.40] now listen you who say today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city spend a year there carry on -[3234.40 --> 3242.48] business and make money why you do not even know what will happen tomorrow what is your life -[3242.48 --> 3251.36] you are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes instead you ought to say if it is -[3251.36 --> 3259.76] the lord's will we will live and do this or that as it is you boast in your arrogant schemes and all such -[3259.76 --> 3271.04] boasting is evil anyone knows the good they ought to do and doesn't do it it is sin for them this is the word of the lord -[3272.48 --> 3295.62] for -[3295.62 --> 3301.94] years, we try to get away for a week, just the two of us, to someplace for a vacation. One year, -[3302.04 --> 3307.10] we went to Boston. We've been to Montreal and to the mountains of Vermont. One year, we went to -[3307.10 --> 3314.30] Florida together. This was the year that was going to be Washington, D.C. And we had it all planned -[3314.30 --> 3318.34] out. We knew which Smithsonian museums we were going to go to, which memorials we were going to -[3318.34 --> 3323.16] visit, the historic buildings and the government centers. We had designs on visiting the Hoover -[3323.16 --> 3328.16] building, right, which is the FBI headquarters. We were going to visit the CIA headquarters in Langley. -[3328.26 --> 3333.86] We were going to go to Arlington and visit the Washington National Cathedral. And the trip was -[3333.86 --> 3339.62] scheduled for spring so that we could be there right in the middle of the National Cherry Blossom -[3339.62 --> 3344.30] Festival, which is supposed to be one of the most beautiful times to visit Washington, D.C. -[3344.30 --> 3354.72] We made all of those plans, then COVID hit. We made all of those plans, and then a global pandemic -[3354.72 --> 3363.72] shut borders and changed all of our lives. And I recognize that after over a year of this together, -[3363.86 --> 3369.44] right, a canceled trip pales in comparison to what certain others have lost in the midst of this, -[3369.44 --> 3375.12] who certain others have lost. And in contrast to the heartbreak and the loss of life, I will gladly -[3375.12 --> 3381.22] give up that trip over and over again. But my point this morning, for our focus and attention, -[3381.52 --> 3388.70] is that we make all sorts of plans. We detail them as precisely as possible. We have itemized -[3388.70 --> 3395.18] itineraries, or at least a person in my family, I won't say who, has itemized itineraries. It's not me. -[3395.18 --> 3404.26] We figure it out, and we figure out when we'll get there. But the presumption, of course, is that -[3404.26 --> 3413.30] we'll get there. Now, this morning, James reminds us who is really in control. And James reminds us -[3413.30 --> 3421.08] to make plans, but in a phrase, to hold them loosely, right? James wants us to see that the sovereignty of -[3421.08 --> 3428.64] God calls forth an active humility on our part. Or as I'm going to say over and over again this morning, -[3428.74 --> 3434.50] the sovereignty of God requires an active, responsive humility in us. -[3436.76 --> 3442.98] Now, if you've been in the CRC, the Christian Reformed Church, for a while, or even more generally, -[3443.12 --> 3448.36] the broader Reformed tradition has been pretty good at this. You might remember a time when, -[3448.36 --> 3454.92] whenever plans were made or dates were published in the bulletin, right, two little letters would be -[3454.92 --> 3461.46] put in brackets behind the events or the date, right? You would see the letters DV, right? So, -[3461.54 --> 3470.76] for instance, on October 13, 1979, DV, the wedding of this or that person, will take place, right? -[3470.76 --> 3478.10] Next Sunday, DV, we will celebrate the baptism of, do any of you remember that? How many of you -[3478.10 --> 3485.66] remember what that means? Now, there's an old joke, and in your best Dutch accent, which I don't have, -[3485.72 --> 3491.00] and I'm not going to do, because we're not a Dutch church anymore, but it says, DV means the Lord, -[3491.00 --> 3492.56] the Lord willing. -[3495.06 --> 3503.36] But that's right, DV means the Lord willing. It's Latin, and it's Deo Valente. Deo Valente, -[3503.36 --> 3509.18] that's the title of this message. Deo Valente, the Lord willing, these people will be married. Deo -[3509.18 --> 3515.02] Valente, the Lord willing, these people will make a public profession of faith. And it is this little -[3515.02 --> 3523.02] phrase, DV, Deo Valente, that is intended to convey the truth that James is trying to convey here in our -[3523.02 --> 3530.14] text. You don't even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a -[3530.14 --> 3537.80] little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, if it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this -[3537.80 --> 3545.94] or that. If it is the Lord's will, Deo Valente, if God ordains it, if God permits it, if God makes it happen, -[3545.94 --> 3556.44] we will live and do this or that. So you see, the problem is not in the planning in and of itself. -[3556.44 --> 3564.76] The problem is in planning in such a way that God has no place in the plans. The sovereignty of God -[3564.76 --> 3576.06] requires an active, responsive humility in us. Now, I get that I'm using a word here, not just the -[3576.06 --> 3582.36] Latin, but using a word that we may not be really familiar with. It's a theological term. The term is -[3582.36 --> 3589.14] sovereignty, right? What is sovereignty? What is the sovereignty of God? And I know that this is doctrine -[3589.14 --> 3595.92] talk, and some of you, when I do doctrine talk, your eyes sort of glass over and you're thinking, man, this is -[3595.92 --> 3601.70] the letter of James. James is supposed to be the practical guy. Why do we need to have doctrine talk? And in -[3601.70 --> 3608.54] some sense, you're right. James is the practical guy, right? Faith without deeds is dead. And so that's true. -[3608.54 --> 3616.02] But if James is the practical guy and he's talking doctrine, maybe your conclusion ought to be that -[3616.02 --> 3624.16] good doctrine is practical. Good doctrine will impact your life and how you live it. And I want to suggest -[3624.16 --> 3633.84] that the doctrine of the sovereignty of God is exactly an example of this. Now, in a word, or in the word -[3633.84 --> 3641.50] sovereignty, you will hear the root sovereign, right? A sovereign is a king or a queen, a ruler. -[3642.44 --> 3651.22] And sovereignty, sovereignty is the exercise of his or her rule. So the sovereignty of God is the exercise -[3651.22 --> 3658.16] of his rule. That's a simple enough operating definition. God is sovereign over all the earth. -[3658.16 --> 3665.82] He rules it and he wills it into his being by his word. And he continues its being by his ongoing word. -[3666.90 --> 3678.28] All that is, is because God says, be. His rule is supreme and ultimate and his rule is authoritative. -[3678.84 --> 3685.34] He is in control. Time is in his hands. Your days are in his hands. The sun, the moon, and the stars -[3685.34 --> 3693.08] are in his hands. The earth spins on its axes because he wills it to spin such. Gravity is gravity because -[3693.08 --> 3701.28] he pulls things down. Let me be clear. This is not a theological statement about reality. This is a real -[3701.28 --> 3707.62] statement about ontology, right? Without God, nothing is. That's sovereignty. -[3707.62 --> 3714.96] Now, I want to be really clear. Because sometimes we hear that and we make the mistake -[3714.96 --> 3722.84] of believing that the sovereignty of God, then, means some sort of determinism or fatalism, right? -[3722.88 --> 3730.00] The sovereignty of God isn't about a passive fatalism, but instead it requires from us a humble -[3730.00 --> 3735.04] dependence. The sovereignty of God requires an active, responsive humility. -[3735.04 --> 3744.16] Deo valente isn't some sort of caveated excuse to not do something, right? I've heard people say, -[3744.30 --> 3750.80] I've sat in council rooms in churches and heard people say, if it's God's will, it will happen. -[3751.04 --> 3755.94] If it's not God's will, it won't happen. And then that's an argument to just sit there and not do -[3755.94 --> 3761.52] anything, right? We just sit passively on our butts waiting for whatever to happen to happen, -[3761.52 --> 3766.08] and we think that's what it means to live into sovereignty. But then nothing gets done, -[3766.20 --> 3772.92] nothing changes, nothing happens. And then, I've seen this too, somehow, after saying that or doing -[3772.92 --> 3778.94] that or being that way, we have the audacity to blame God or to get mad at him for not giving us -[3778.94 --> 3784.36] the thing that we wanted or the thing that we were waiting for. Instead, properly understood, -[3784.36 --> 3792.48] sovereignty and God's sovereignty comes to you and says, do something. And now, here it is, right? Do it -[3792.48 --> 3801.64] with the mindset, with the humility that says, I need the grace of God, right? I am dependent on the -[3801.64 --> 3810.44] will of God for every aspect of my life and faith. Whatever you do, do it for the glory of God and do it -[3810.44 --> 3815.62] with the humility that asks for God's care and his provision. Do it with the humility that says, -[3816.12 --> 3820.84] not my will but yours be done. Do it with the humility that says, not a hair can fall from my -[3820.84 --> 3826.94] head without the will of my Father in heaven. Because you see, over and over and over again in the Bible, -[3827.08 --> 3835.04] there are two realities that we sometimes think exist in tension with each other. But the truth is, -[3835.04 --> 3841.96] in God's sovereignty, these realities are not conflicting, but they are complementary, right? -[3842.00 --> 3848.88] That they go together as one. I'm going to pull this together for you. So let's look a little bit -[3848.88 --> 3855.44] more closely at God's sovereignty and what that is. Now, we've seen it already in the book of James, -[3856.16 --> 3860.38] right? Remember, in chapter 1, verse 17, we read, -[3860.38 --> 3865.78] Every good and perfect gift comes from above, coming down from the Father of heavenly lights, -[3866.08 --> 3871.98] right? Everything you have, everything that happens, comes from God and by his will. -[3873.08 --> 3876.18] In Colossians 1, verse 16 and 17, we read, -[3876.38 --> 3883.08] For in him, or by him, all things were created. He is before all things, and in him all things hold -[3883.08 --> 3893.32] together, right? All things hold and are held together by God. That's sovereignty. Or Proverbs 16, -[3893.44 --> 3901.10] 33 says, The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord. Right? Even what seems -[3901.10 --> 3910.56] to our perspectives random, like thrown dice, comes from God's hand. That's sovereignty. Job 42, -[3910.56 --> 3917.10] verse 2, right? After everything that Job went through, all of his losses, all of the deaths in -[3917.10 --> 3922.82] his family, losing all of his possessions, his hurts and his pains, everything that he experiences, -[3923.28 --> 3931.64] Job still says at the end, I know that you, Lord, can do all things that no purpose of yours can be -[3931.64 --> 3935.40] thwarted. That's the sovereignty of God. -[3935.40 --> 3944.58] Lamentations 3, 37 and 38 says, Who can speak and have it happen if the Lord has not decreed it? -[3945.46 --> 3951.52] Is it not from the mouth of the Lord that both calamities and good things come? Or Jeremiah 32, -[3951.64 --> 3956.60] 17 says, O sovereign Lord, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and -[3956.60 --> 3965.12] outstretched arm? Nothing is too hard for you. And in all of these verses, in this quick, super quick -[3965.12 --> 3970.60] survey, we haven't even touched on the verses about salvation being set before the foundation of the -[3970.60 --> 3978.24] world or about God being the one who draws you to him or how being dead in sin but Christ makes you -[3978.24 --> 3984.70] alive in Christ, about God predestining you for his glory. But that's all there and that's all part of -[3984.70 --> 3992.66] God's sovereignty. The truth of the Bible is that God is in control, absolutely. That nothing happens -[3992.66 --> 3999.64] without his will and his word. That he is the ruler over all creation, the king whose will is his way, -[3999.74 --> 4007.90] is the way. Like 2 Chronicles 20 verse 6 says, You rule over all the kingdoms of nations, power and -[4007.90 --> 4015.70] might are in your hands. No one can withstand you. And that means that no one stands without God, -[4015.86 --> 4025.68] no one outstands God, and no one stands with God. That is, there is none like him. He is sovereign. -[4025.68 --> 4038.64] And there is a complementary truth in God's sovereignty. A complementary truth that you -[4038.64 --> 4047.20] are called to work. You are called to do something. The sovereignty of God requires an active, -[4047.64 --> 4055.64] responsive humility in us. Active and responsive. The whole book of James is about connecting, -[4055.68 --> 4062.48] connecting your hearing, and your doing, about making our faith real by obedience. Deeds of faith -[4062.48 --> 4069.10] aren't contrary to faith, right? Deeds of faith aren't contrary to faith in God who provides. -[4069.20 --> 4073.92] Instead, deeds of faith are marks that your faith is true and it's real. -[4077.12 --> 4083.34] A couple weeks ago, we looked at chapter 4, the first part of chapter 4. Pastor Kevin led us in that. -[4083.34 --> 4089.92] And in verse 7, it says, Submit yourselves to God, right? That's humility language. That's language of -[4089.92 --> 4095.90] God's sovereign rule and our humble response there. In verse 7, it says, Submit yourself to God, -[4096.56 --> 4104.46] resist the devil. Now, that's do something language, right? Come near to God and he will come near to you. -[4104.86 --> 4110.30] Wash your hands, purify your heart, he says in the first part of chapter 4, right? All of that is do -[4110.30 --> 4119.36] something language. In 1st and 2nd Thessalonians, Paul warns the church against idleness, right? People -[4119.36 --> 4125.34] who aren't doing anything, who are just riding out, right? He says to keep away from those who are idle -[4125.34 --> 4132.06] and to warn them. He says, We hear some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy, they are busy -[4132.06 --> 4141.60] bodies, right? In a very real way, we are created to do something, to work, right? All the way back in -[4141.60 --> 4148.08] the creation story of Genesis 1 and 2, where God made all that is, right? God made Adam and Eve and -[4148.08 --> 4154.90] he put them in a garden. And in Genesis 2, 15, it says that he put them in a garden to work it and keep it. -[4154.90 --> 4162.90] To work it and keep it. Work, doing something, is part of being human. It's part of what God looked -[4162.90 --> 4170.62] at at the very beginning and said, This is very good. So doing something is not in contrast to God's -[4170.62 --> 4176.50] sovereignty, where we say he does everything, that everything happens by his will. No, doing something -[4176.50 --> 4183.82] complements God's sovereignty as God exercises his will through human action, human activity, -[4183.82 --> 4194.22] and human history. Let me give you two examples where we can clearly see these two realities of -[4194.22 --> 4201.70] God's sovereignty and human responsibility to be active in humility, where we see those two things -[4201.70 --> 4208.78] wedded together. And in fact, Holy Spirit works in really marvelous ways, because I didn't talk to -[4208.78 --> 4214.14] Wendy or Nikki beforehand, but one of those examples is the story of Joseph, right? Joseph, -[4214.46 --> 4222.22] in that story, is left for dead, basically sold into slavery by his brothers. He goes through a -[4222.22 --> 4227.54] version of living hell. Well, early on in Egypt, he's charged with false crimes. He ends up in jail. -[4227.64 --> 4232.44] He's passed over again and again in a time in jail. Eventually, he gets out, yes, and eventually, -[4232.44 --> 4238.88] he rises to power, but he had to go through some stuff in order to get there. And his brothers -[4238.88 --> 4246.46] left him. His father thought he was dead. But the end of the story, when the two, when the brothers and -[4246.46 --> 4251.58] Joseph, when his father are all reconciled, Joseph looks at his brothers and he says, -[4252.04 --> 4258.80] You intended to harm me. That's their action, their work in the world. But God intended it, -[4258.80 --> 4265.42] right? Not God turned it, right? Not God came in after the fact and said, Oh, I will work it. God -[4265.42 --> 4270.86] intended it. He purposed it from the very beginning, alongside of your purposes. He intended it -[4270.86 --> 4276.74] for good, to accomplish the saving of many lives. -[4278.80 --> 4286.66] Human activity and responsibility, complementary wedded to God's sovereignty. And of course, -[4286.66 --> 4293.22] from the story of Joseph, there is a straight line directly to Jesus, who is the true and better -[4293.22 --> 4299.64] Joseph, the true and better brother who was slain on our behalf. Jesus, who lived the life I should -[4299.64 --> 4304.64] have lived. And then, though he was perfectly righteous, though in him there was no sin at all, -[4304.70 --> 4310.48] he became sin and he bore death on the cross, the death that I deserve, that you deserve, that we all -[4310.48 --> 4322.22] deserve. He bore it on the cross, the wrath of God for sin. God took what the world intended to be the -[4322.22 --> 4332.18] greatest evil ever imaginable, the death of God's Son. He intended that for the saving of many lives. -[4332.18 --> 4339.34] He intended that for the salvation of all who would believe. God's sovereignty and human action, -[4339.50 --> 4346.02] complementary, wedded together. There's a second way that we see this really clearly. -[4347.18 --> 4353.98] That's in Philippians 2. Philippians 2, verse 12 and 13, Paul writes there, -[4354.08 --> 4358.58] Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed, and again, train your ears to hear that, -[4358.58 --> 4363.60] right? That's do something language. As you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but now -[4363.60 --> 4371.16] much more in my absence, continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, right? Work out -[4371.16 --> 4377.48] your salvation. Do the work. Be disciplined in devotion. Exercise your faith. Strengthen your -[4377.48 --> 4383.22] obedience. Run with perseverance the race marked out for you, like in the Garden of Eden. Work it and -[4383.22 --> 4389.92] keep it. Cultivate your faith. Grow it. Shape it. Be pruned by God in the Holy Spirit and produce fruits. -[4390.30 --> 4396.72] Do the work. Continue to work out your salvation with fear and with trembling, for it is God who -[4396.72 --> 4404.60] works in you. Paul continues. You hear that? Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. -[4404.60 --> 4414.38] Do the work. God's sovereignty requires an active, responsive humility, for it is God who works in you -[4414.38 --> 4423.04] to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purposes. In theological terms, again, this is a -[4423.04 --> 4429.70] monergism that calls you out to do the work and to make it real. The sovereignty of God requires an active, -[4429.70 --> 4438.10] responsive humility in us. And in our worship this morning, in the illustrations we've mentioned here -[4438.10 --> 4446.36] in the letter from James, there is perhaps no greater example of this, no greater sign or symbol of this -[4446.36 --> 4455.08] than baptism itself. Baptism is a perfect example of what we are talking about here because in baptism, -[4455.08 --> 4462.70] we acknowledge and see God at work. We baptize infants in our tradition and church community -[4462.70 --> 4468.00] not because we are doing something, not because we are making promises or dedications, not because -[4468.00 --> 4471.98] we are committing to be a certain way, even though we do those things. And that's part of our liturgy. -[4472.42 --> 4480.60] We baptize children and infants. We baptize Anna because God makes a promise. Because God is at work. -[4480.60 --> 4490.16] All right, faith is a gift. And the promised fruit of that faith, the promised reality of the forgiveness -[4490.16 --> 4497.72] of sins is extended to Anna by God, by virtue of being her, by her being a member of our covenant -[4497.72 --> 4506.16] family. Inclusion in this covenant family is a gift of God. It is an exercise of God's sovereign rule -[4506.16 --> 4516.12] in the world. But we respond to God's work. We promise to support and to love. We promise to -[4516.12 --> 4521.78] pray for her and to shape her in the faith. We promise to teach her and to raise her. We promise -[4521.78 --> 4528.18] to support Nathan and Maria and all the other kids. We promise to come alongside them. And in that promise, -[4528.18 --> 4537.66] in that commitment to be active and responsive, God is at work in us and through us to her. -[4539.34 --> 4547.48] We are the exercise of God's sovereignty in the life of Anna as faith is formed in her. And Lord willing, -[4548.32 --> 4557.40] Deo Valente, one day she will respond in faith. She will make it her own and we will see God's sovereign -[4557.40 --> 4565.36] will extended and including her in it as she stands, Lord willing, again before us to make that profession -[4565.36 --> 4580.18] of faith where she says, yes, you are my God. I am your child. The promise of God extended and made real -[4580.18 --> 4587.38] in baptism is an example of the sovereignty of God at work and requiring from us an active -[4587.40 --> 4597.30] and responsive humility. But the hope of the gospel, the gospel that sees God able to take the -[4597.30 --> 4603.58] greatest evils ever intended and turn them to the greatest good. The hope of the gospel that is able -[4603.58 --> 4610.44] to see the story of Joseph and the reconciliation and the forgiveness and restoration that comes from -[4610.44 --> 4616.28] that. The hope of the gospel that enables us to see God at work even in the midst of a global pandemic. -[4616.28 --> 4623.96] The hope of the gospel is that we can see our sovereign God even when all else is crumbling -[4623.96 --> 4629.18] around us. His rule is forever. -[4634.18 --> 4638.72] Deo Valente changes you. -[4638.72 --> 4650.00] Deo Valente speaking this recognition of God's active work in the world changes. -[4651.74 --> 4659.46] No longer are you left alone or in fear. No longer are we left broken, but we are made whole. -[4659.46 --> 4673.54] And so day and every day forward. Make plans. Work. Do something. Make your plans in the Lord. -[4675.94 --> 4686.34] Make your plans in the hope, confidence, the conviction, even the certainty. God is sovereign. -[4686.34 --> 4690.50] Amen. Amen. Let's pray together. -[4696.02 --> 4697.68] Lord our God, -[4697.68 --> 4703.74] as you speak your word of truth to us this morning, -[4704.62 --> 4708.74] open our eyes to your rule in the world. -[4708.74 --> 4716.06] open our hearts to your authority and your sovereign power over all the earth. -[4717.42 --> 4718.98] And convict us. -[4720.08 --> 4726.78] Convict us to go forward from this place in the power of your sovereign rule. -[4727.42 --> 4733.36] That we might be the means by which you exercise that authority to the world. -[4733.36 --> 4737.00] And God, we pray. -[4738.52 --> 4739.20] A little Anna. -[4741.46 --> 4742.36] The Klein-Geltings. -[4743.32 --> 4746.14] That all of us together, each and everyone, -[4746.98 --> 4747.94] would be a testimony -[4747.94 --> 4750.44] of your faithfulness. -[4752.18 --> 4754.24] Plans made in the power -[4754.24 --> 4756.06] of your promises. -[4756.06 --> 4760.26] This we pray in Jesus' name. -[4761.06 --> 4761.36] Amen. -[4761.36 --> 4761.46] Amen. -[4761.46 --> 4764.28] I am. -[4765.20 --> 4765.64] Amen. -[4771.28 --> 4777.26] I have heard a thousand stories of what they think it's worth. -[4777.26 --> 4779.20] At one point, Lord, if O God is long. -[4779.20 --> 4779.74] O God is long. -[4779.74 --> 4783.46] O God needs the same with us, -[4783.46 --> 4784.84] yourándaly handily of his wrath, -[4784.84 --> 4785.58] augmentation and the ADA. -[4785.58 --> 4787.02] Take the time the Holy parole is down. -[4787.02 --> 4793.18] Tells and stories of what they think you're like. -[4793.18 --> 4799.76] But I've heard pretend you're a spear of love. -[4800.34 --> 4811.78] The dead of time has you tell me that you're pleased and that I'm never alone. -[4811.78 --> 4823.04] Oh, good, good Father, it's who you are, it's who you are, it's who you are. -[4823.04 --> 4833.36] And I'm loved by you, it's who I am, it's who I am, it's who I am. -[4833.36 --> 4846.10] I've seen many searching for answers far and wide. -[4846.10 --> 4854.84] But I know we're all searching for answers only you broke. -[4855.26 --> 4864.10] And as you know just what we need before we say a word. -[4864.10 --> 4875.36] You're a good, good Father, it's who you are, it's who you are, it's who you are. -[4875.36 --> 4884.36] And I'm loved by you, it's who I am, it's who I am, it's who I am. -[4884.36 --> 4892.64] You are perfect in all of your ways. -[4892.64 --> 4897.60] You are perfect in all of your ways. -[4897.60 --> 4905.36] You are perfect in all of your ways to us. -[4905.36 --> 4935.34] Love so undeniable I can hardly feel. -[4935.36 --> 4948.22] Speak peace so unexplainable I can hardly think as you call me. -[4948.22 --> 4953.00] Deeper still as you call me. -[4953.00 --> 4957.54] Deeper still as you call me. -[4957.54 --> 4961.18] Deeper still into now. -[4961.18 --> 4962.92] 思いaga. -[4962.92 --> 4962.94] Deeper still as you call me. -[4962.94 --> 4963.96] Someone with music so unexplainable and standing true. -[4963.96 --> 4965.10] And woman with prose and salt. -[4965.10 --> 4966.68] In greeter, she wrote some guidance and Czyli back in all of your ways to us. -[4966.68 --> 4969.08] Saint phoeic of noite and画面. -[4969.18 --> 4973.52] Des Qué que san scheduling e Billboard con Hershey is going mailbox-system andachment. -[4973.52 --> 4974.36] loved -[4974.36 --> 4974.82] by -[4974.82 --> 4975.08] is -[4975.08 --> 4975.98] justified -[4975.98 --> 4976.32] too -[4976.32 --> 4977.54] I get -[4977.54 --> 4978.70] though -[4978.70 --> 4978.84] I take -[4978.84 --> 4979.92] love -[4979.92 --> 4980.00] by -[4980.00 --> 4982.14] you -[4989.98 --> 4990.34] is -[4990.34 --> 4990.50] who -[4990.50 --> 4991.04] you -[4991.04 --> 4992.10] are -[4992.10 --> 4992.32] and -[4992.32 --> 4992.88] I'm -[4992.88 --> 4993.52] loved -[4993.52 --> 4994.04] by -[4994.04 --> 4994.40] you -[4994.40 --> 4994.84] see -[4995.24 --> 4995.78] I -[4995.78 --> 4997.02] am -[4997.02 --> 4997.84] to -[4997.84 --> 4998.42] I -[4998.42 --> 4998.88] am -[4998.88 --> 5000.22] to -[5000.22 --> 5000.94] I -[5000.94 --> 5001.42] am -[5001.42 --> 5001.84] I -[5001.84 --> 5003.36] am -[5003.36 --> 5003.50] 00 -[5003.52 --> 5016.46] As you go into this week, -[5017.22 --> 5020.10] know and believe with certainty -[5020.10 --> 5022.74] that our sovereign God goes with you. -[5023.64 --> 5025.68] Go also with an invitation to join us -[5025.68 --> 5028.78] for Zoom coffee in 20 minutes or so -[5028.78 --> 5029.96] following this service. -[5029.96 --> 5033.36] As you go, receive then his promise. -[5033.84 --> 5034.24] Blessing. -[5035.94 --> 5038.22] May God go before you to lead you. -[5038.98 --> 5041.22] May God go behind you to guard you. -[5042.02 --> 5043.94] May God go beneath you to support you. -[5044.28 --> 5046.90] May God go beside you to befriend you. -[5047.56 --> 5049.80] Do not be afraid. -[5050.52 --> 5052.44] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5052.56 --> 5054.06] Do not be afraid. -[5054.06 --> 5059.56] Go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5060.72 --> 5061.32] Amen. -[5063.52 --> 5090.28] Praise the Lord. -[5090.28 --> 5095.24] From whom all blessings flow. -[5095.24 --> 5105.74] For he has washed and made me white as snow. -[5105.74 --> 5117.64] I'm bleeding from all my sin and shame. -[5117.64 --> 5121.70] Now and forever. -[5121.70 --> 5126.66] Praise his holy name. -[5126.66 --> 5127.66] Praise his holy name. -[5127.66 --> 5134.08] Praise his holy name. -[5134.08 --> 5139.14] Praise his holy name. -[5139.28 --> 5142.46] To God be the glory. -[5143.00 --> 5145.12] Now and forever. -[5145.12 --> 5149.24] Praise his holy name. -[5149.24 --> 5155.20] Praise the Lord. -[5155.20 --> 5156.20] Praise the Lord. -[5156.20 --> 5161.00] From whom all blessings flow. -[5161.00 --> 5172.08] He has washed and made me white as snow. -[5172.08 --> 5182.04] I'm bleeding from all my sin and shame. -[5182.04 --> 5184.00] Praise the Lord. -[5184.00 --> 5186.08] Praise his holy name. -[5186.08 --> 5189.00] Praise his holy name. -[5189.00 --> 5194.14] Praise his holy name. -[5194.14 --> 5200.80] Praise His holy name -[5200.80 --> 5205.86] Praise His holy name -[5205.86 --> 5209.58] To God in the glory -[5209.58 --> 5212.28] Now and forever -[5212.28 --> 5217.64] Praise His holy name -[5217.64 --> 5222.94] Praise His holy name -[5222.94 --> 5228.60] Praise His holy name -[5228.60 --> 5232.50] To God in the glory -[5232.50 --> 5235.48] Now and forever -[5235.48 --> 5240.48] Praise His holy name -[5240.48 --> 5251.62] Let the darkness fear -[5251.62 --> 5255.12] Show Your mighty hand -[5255.12 --> 5258.64] Heal our streets and land -[5258.64 --> 5262.02] Set Your church on fire -[5262.02 --> 5265.46] Win this nation back -[5265.46 --> 5268.62] Change the atmosphere -[5268.62 --> 5272.12] Build Your kingdom here -[5272.12 --> 5274.12] We pray -[5274.12 --> 5279.66] Come set Your rule and reign -[5279.66 --> 5282.96] In our hearts again -[5282.96 --> 5286.38] Increase in us we pray -[5286.38 --> 5290.02] Unveil why we're made -[5290.02 --> 5293.52] Come set our hearts ablaze -[5293.52 --> 5297.76] With hope like wildfire in our very souls -[5297.76 --> 5302.54] Holy Spirit come invade us now -[5302.54 --> 5309.54] Let's go -[5309.54 --> 5313.98] Let's go -[5313.98 --> 5317.48] We seek Your kingdom first -[5317.48 --> 5321.32] We hunger and we thirst -[5321.32 --> 5325.04] Refuse to waste our lives -[5325.04 --> 5327.98] For You're our joy and prize -[5327.98 --> 5331.68] To see the captive hearts -[5331.68 --> 5335.98] The least, the hurt, the sick, the poor at peace -[5335.98 --> 5341.22] We've laid down our lives for heaven's cause -[5341.22 --> 5345.94] We are Your church -[5345.94 --> 5347.94] And we pray -[5347.94 --> 5348.08] And we pray -[5348.08 --> 5350.80] Revive this earth -[5350.80 --> 5354.12] We're praying for revival -[5354.12 --> 5358.94] Build Your kingdom here -[5358.94 --> 5362.94] Let the darkness fear -[5362.94 --> 5365.94] Show Your mighty hand -[5365.94 --> 5366.94] Heal our streets and land -[5366.94 --> 5368.94] Heal our streets and land -[5368.94 --> 5369.94] Heal our streets and land -[5369.94 --> 5372.94] Set Your church on fire -[5372.94 --> 5375.94] Win this nation back -[5375.94 --> 5378.94] Change the atmosphere -[5378.94 --> 5382.94] Build Your kingdom here -[5382.94 --> 5384.94] We pray -[5384.94 --> 5386.94] Change the atmosphere -[5386.94 --> 5388.94] Change the atmosphere -[5388.94 --> 5392.94] Unleash Your kingdom's power -[5392.94 --> 5394.94] Reaching the near and far -[5394.94 --> 5396.94] Reaching the near and far -[5396.94 --> 5399.94] No force of hell can stop -[5399.94 --> 5403.94] Your beauty changing hearts -[5403.94 --> 5407.94] Cause You made us for much more than this -[5407.94 --> 5411.94] Awake the kingdom seen in us -[5411.94 --> 5417.94] Fill us with the strength and love of Christ -[5417.94 --> 5421.94] We are Your church -[5421.94 --> 5426.94] Oh and we are the hope on earth -[5426.94 --> 5428.94] Come on church -[5428.94 --> 5431.94] Build Your kingdom here -[5431.94 --> 5434.94] Like the darkness fear -[5434.94 --> 5438.94] Show Your mighty hand -[5438.94 --> 5441.94] Heal our streets and land -[5441.94 --> 5445.94] Set Your church on fire -[5445.94 --> 5446.94] Let the fire -[5446.94 --> 5448.94] Win this nation back -[5448.94 --> 5452.94] Change the atmosphere -[5452.94 --> 5455.94] Build Your kingdom here -[5455.94 --> 5457.94] We pray -[5457.94 --> 5459.94] Change the atmosphere -[5459.94 --> 5461.94] Build Your kingdom here -[5461.94 --> 5462.94] Build Your kingdom here -[5462.94 --> 5466.94] Build Your kingdom here -[5466.94 --> 5469.94] Let the darkness fear -[5469.94 --> 5473.94] Show Your mighty hand -[5473.94 --> 5474.94] Heal our land -[5474.94 --> 5475.94] Heal our land -[5475.94 --> 5476.94] Heal our land -[5476.94 --> 5477.94] Heal our streets and land -[5477.94 --> 5480.94] Set Your church on fire -[5480.94 --> 5483.94] Win this nation back -[5483.94 --> 5486.94] Change the atmosphere -[5486.94 --> 5490.94] Build Your kingdom here -[5490.94 --> 5492.94] We pray -[5492.94 --> 5493.94] Let the darkness fear -[5493.94 --> 5494.94] Let the darkness fear -[5494.94 --> 5496.94] Back -[5496.94 --> 5498.94] Change the atmosphere -[5498.94 --> 5499.94] Build Your kingdom here -[5499.94 --> 5500.94] We pray -[5500.94 --> 5501.94] Let the darkness fear -[5501.94 --> 5502.94] Be goodness -[5502.94 --> 5503.94] Watch -[5503.94 --> 5504.94] We pray -[5504.94 --> 5505.94] We èFO -[5505.94 --> 5507.94] We pray -[5507.94 --> 5508.94] You -[5508.94 --> 5509.94] We pray -[5509.94 --> 5510.94] We serve -[5510.94 --> 5511.94] We pray -[5511.94 --> 5513.44] We pray -[5513.44 --> 5513.94] We training -[5513.94 --> 5514.94] You -[5514.94 --> 5515.94] We out -[5516.94 --> 5517.94] We are -[5517.94 --> 5518.94] Sharing -[5518.94 --> 5519.94] We pray -[5519.94 --> 5520.94] We are -[5520.94 --> 5521.94] 倉 -[5521.94 --> 5522.94] We -[5522.94 --> 5523.94] By -[5523.94 --> 5524.94] Snow -[5524.94 --> 5525.94] We -[5525.94 --> 5526.94] We -[5526.94 --> 5527.58] Know -[5527.94 --> 5528.94] Thunder -[5528.94 --> 5529.94] 写 diff --git a/Sunday Worship Service - May 9 2021_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship Service - May 9 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 03b694823e1f51cbf4cd7af8ed8f839690f00eda..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship Service - May 9 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,98 +0,0 @@ -• Calling out to those struggling with identity and confusion -• Searching for a good love in the wrong places -• Recognizing the need for spiritual connection and guidance -• Acknowledging the inability to comprehend or understand God's plan -• Running to the Father for mercy, forgiveness, and redemption -• Experiencing healing and restoration through faith and surrender -• Worship service begins -• Happy Mother's Day acknowledged -• Announcements made about upcoming events: Real Talk, Gems program, Seeds of Hope food drive -• Reminder to participate in Treat Tag challenge -• Call to worship from Psalm 98 -• Praise music and singing begin -• Worship and praise to God -• Praise for God's majesty, love, and faithfulness -• Confession of not worshiping and praising God enough due to busy lives -• Prayer for forgiveness, drawing back into God's narrative, and receiving new life through Christ -• Assurance of salvation through Christ -• Prayer for opening hearts to accept the gospel and giving words to speak -• Praise of God above all powers, kings, nature, and created things -• Reference to Lucifer and Jesus' sacrifice -• Discussing appearance and receiving compliments -• Learning and memorizing the memory verse from Isaiah 41:13 -• Practicing American Sign Language for "fear" and "help" -• Explaining the concept of Ascension in relation to Jesus' life -• Brainstorming ways to "rise up" to a higher level -• The Bible tells the story of Jesus inviting his disciples to meet him on a mountain, where he gave them important instructions -• Jesus commanded his disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, baptize them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and teach them to obey everything he has commanded -• The three main ideas are: making disciples of all nations, baptism, and teaching people to obey Jesus' commands -• After Jesus ascended into heaven, his disciples received the gift of the Holy Spirit, which gave them power to be witnesses for Jesus -• Jesus promised that they would receive this gift, but his timing was not what they expected; instead of ruling over an earthly kingdom, he would give them spiritual power to spread his message throughout the world. -• The disciples are told to wait for Jesus' return -• Jesus promises to come back in the same way he left -• Discussion on sharing Jesus' love with others, including baptizing people -• Jesus' promise of being present always to the very end -• Prayer for courage and strength to share Jesus' love -• Announcements from the church: - • Today's offerings are for the church budget and a special offering for Advocate on Mother's Day - • Description of Advocate's mission, including promoting human dignity and value through education and resources - • Mention of Hope for Women pregnancy services in Abbotsford and Langley - • Upcoming offerings will be for the church budget and Seeds of Hope children's ministry - • Nomination process for elders and deacons is announced -• Thanking God for His Holy Spirit who lives in us -• Appreciating mothers and their unconditional love and service -• Praying for those grieving the loss of a mother or without a nurturing upbringing -• Thanking God for the congregation and its expressions of love -• Asking for blessings on leadership, office bearers, and COVID-related needs -• Requesting comfort and peace for those affected by restrictions and losses -• Gratitude for God's word and Pastor Chris' ministry -• Reading from Acts 1:1-11 -• The passage from Acts 1 is read and discussed -• Jesus gives instructions to his apostles after his suffering, including waiting for the gift of the Holy Spirit -• Jesus is taken up into heaven, and two men in white appear to the apostles, saying he will return in the same way -• The ascension of Jesus is discussed as a counterintuitive concept, where being apart from Jesus might seem to draw people closer to him -• Nearness and proximity are mentioned as generally bringing closeness, but the ascension of Jesus is shown to be an exception -• The story of Mary Magdalene in John 20 is shared, illustrating how Jesus appears to his followers after his resurrection -• Jesus tells Mary Magdalene not to hold onto him because he has not yet returned to his Father -• The word "do not touch me" in John 20:17 means to squeeze tight, which is what Mary was doing -• Jesus promises that when he ascends to the Father, he will be closer to her than he is physically present -• Jesus' physical body leaves the earth but his presence remains through the Holy Spirit -• The ascension makes it possible for us to receive Jesus into our hearts and have him with us always -• Jesus' leaving is for our receiving of him through the Holy Spirit -• Now, we can experience Jesus' work and guidance anywhere, at any time, through the Holy Spirit -• The ascension of Jesus is not a loss of intimacy with God, but rather an infinite magnification of available intimacy. -• The nearness of Jesus to us through the ascension changes our worship together by placing the proper object of worship in our own hearts. -• Worship involves ascribing worth and value to something or someone, and it's essential to recognize that our hearts are made to worship. -• The ascension makes true and proper worship possible because God intervenes with his grace, seating Jesus on the throne of our hearts. -• The Holy Spirit facilitates this worship by quickening dead hearts and regenerating us, allowing us to direct our worship rightly to Jesus. -• The ascension gives us "Ascension Momentum" in worship, characterized by a particular momentum fueled by the Holy Spirit's direction towards Jesus. -• The ascension of Jesus enables His presence in our hearts and also takes us out into the world as disciples making disciples -• Worship is not an end in itself, but a preparation for mission and work outside the church community -• Right worship always requires a missional application and should lead to action in sharing the gospel with others -• The work of converting and saving the lost is God's work through the Holy Spirit, but believers are called to participate in this work -• Sharing one's love and joy for Jesus with others is essential and should be done with passion and energy -• Fear and worry can hold people back from sharing their faith, but Jesus' promise to never leave or forsake them gives believers confidence to take action -• The impact of the church believing even 50% of the time on its community -• The ascension fuels worship and mission with hope for a future where worship is complete and the mission of God has an end -• Jesus' return in the same way he left, making all things new -• The idea that being apart isn't what draws us closer to God, but the coming home -• A vision of a future heaven and earth made new with no more death, mourning, or pain -• The promise of a new heaven and earth where God dwells among people as their God -• Worship and mission with Jesus -• Trust in God's promise not to leave or forsake -• Love and obey God -• Overcome fear and worry, trusting in God's perfect plan -• Proclaim the kingdom of God to the world -• Serving the poor, suffering, and lost -• Living for God and following His will -• Desire to follow and serve -• Commitment to going where needed -• Surrender of self to God's plan -• Assurance of God's presence and power -• Praise and worship of God's exaltation -• Belief in the Son and His resurrection -• Acknowledgment of salvation through Jesus' blood -• Testimony of being alive due to Christ's life -• Song and its message -• Continuation of the song with repetition of "Amen" -• Final part of the song mentioning "Because he lives" \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship Service - May 9 2021_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship Service - May 9 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ee6ffe021f1f040ace21583bd3d8ec650b3629a5..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship Service - May 9 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1249 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.08] Now, put it out now, give a good love to the one who wants to commit suicide. -[6.64 --> 11.02] Receive this love now to the one who's wrestling with their identity. -[11.48 --> 15.38] Receive this love now to the one who's wrestling with confusion. -[15.88 --> 21.92] Receive it, receive it, receive it, receive it, receive it, receive it, receive it, receive it. -[22.72 --> 25.10] We've been searching in the wrong place, sister. -[25.82 --> 28.86] What we need in the home of our world now. -[30.00 --> 32.00] We've been searching for a good love. -[34.00 --> 37.64] I am calling you a love. -[40.00 --> 43.78] I am calling you a love. -[44.44 --> 45.84] Don't forget it. -[46.50 --> 49.98] I am calling you a love. -[50.46 --> 52.00] Don't forget it. -[52.80 --> 56.14] I am calling you a love. -[60.00 --> 62.00] Don't forget it. -[62.00 --> 66.78] I am calling you a love. -[66.78 --> 80.12] I've carried a burden -[80.12 --> 84.28] For too long on mine -[84.28 --> 90.48] I wasn't created -[90.48 --> 94.72] To bury the whole -[94.72 --> 101.12] I hear your invitation -[101.12 --> 105.28] Let it all go -[105.28 --> 107.72] I see it now -[107.72 --> 110.44] I'm laying it down -[110.44 --> 115.72] I know that I need you -[115.72 --> 118.48] I've run to the Father -[118.48 --> 120.80] Fall into grace -[120.80 --> 123.74] I'm done with the hiding -[123.74 --> 126.00] No reason to wait -[126.00 --> 128.80] My heart needs a surgeon -[128.80 --> 131.18] My soul needs a friend -[131.18 --> 134.08] So I run to the Father -[134.08 --> 136.26] Again and again -[136.26 --> 139.04] And again and again -[139.04 --> 153.30] You saw my condition -[153.30 --> 157.48] At a plan from the start -[157.48 --> 162.54] Your son for redemption -[162.54 --> 168.04] The price for my heart -[168.04 --> 173.74] I don't have a contact -[173.74 --> 178.80] I don't understand -[178.80 --> 180.18] I don't understand -[180.18 --> 183.18] I can't comprehend -[183.18 --> 188.00] All I know is I need you -[188.00 --> 191.48] I'm brought to the Father -[191.48 --> 193.80] Fall into grace -[193.80 --> 196.18] I'm done with the hiding -[196.18 --> 198.44] No reason to wait -[198.44 --> 199.04] No reason to wait -[199.04 --> 201.24] My heart needs a surgeon -[201.24 --> 204.20] My soul needs a friend -[204.20 --> 206.52] So I run to the Father -[206.52 --> 208.44] Again and again -[208.44 --> 210.44] And again and again -[210.44 --> 211.44] And again -[211.44 --> 211.98] And again -[211.98 --> 213.32] Oh -[213.32 --> 214.24] Oh -[214.24 --> 215.24] Oh -[215.24 --> 216.24] Oh -[216.24 --> 216.64] Oh -[216.64 --> 217.24] Oh -[217.24 --> 218.24] Oh -[218.24 --> 219.24] Oh -[219.24 --> 219.60] Oh -[219.60 --> 220.24] Oh -[220.24 --> 220.36] Oh -[220.36 --> 221.24] Oh -[221.24 --> 222.70] Oh -[222.70 --> 223.24] Oh -[223.24 --> 224.24] Oh -[224.24 --> 225.24] Oh -[225.24 --> 226.24] Oh -[226.24 --> 227.24] Oh -[227.24 --> 228.24] Oh -[228.24 --> 229.24] Oh -[229.24 --> 230.24] Oh -[230.24 --> 231.24] Oh -[231.24 --> 235.24] My heart has been in your sight -[235.24 --> 240.24] Long before my first breath -[240.24 --> 242.24] Running into your heart -[242.24 --> 245.24] Running into your heart -[245.24 --> 248.24] Is running to life -[248.24 --> 250.24] From death -[250.24 --> 251.24] And I hear this rush -[251.24 --> 253.24] Deep in my chest -[253.24 --> 257.24] Your mercy is calling out -[257.24 --> 259.24] Just as I am -[259.24 --> 260.24] You pulled me in -[260.24 --> 263.24] I know I need you -[263.24 --> 265.24] I know I need you -[265.24 --> 267.24] I know I need you -[267.24 --> 269.24] I know I need you -[269.24 --> 271.24] I know I need you -[271.24 --> 274.24] I know I run to the Father -[274.24 --> 276.24] Fall into grace -[276.24 --> 279.24] I'm done with the hiding -[279.24 --> 281.24] No reason to wait -[281.24 --> 284.24] My heart needs a surgeon -[284.24 --> 286.24] My soul needs a friend -[286.24 --> 289.24] So I run to the Father -[289.24 --> 292.24] Again and again -[292.24 --> 295.24] I run to the Father -[295.24 --> 297.24] Fall into grace -[297.24 --> 298.24] Fall into grace -[298.24 --> 299.24] I'm done with the hiding -[299.24 --> 300.24] No reason to wait -[300.24 --> 301.24] My heart found a surgeon -[301.24 --> 302.24] My soul found a friend -[302.24 --> 303.24] So I run to the Father -[303.24 --> 304.24] Again and again -[304.24 --> 305.24] And again and again -[305.24 --> 306.24] And again -[306.24 --> 307.24] Oh -[307.24 --> 308.24] Oh -[308.24 --> 309.24] Oh -[309.24 --> 310.24] Oh -[310.24 --> 311.24] Oh -[311.24 --> 312.24] Oh -[312.24 --> 313.24] Oh -[313.24 --> 314.24] Oh -[314.24 --> 315.24] Oh -[315.24 --> 316.24] Oh -[316.24 --> 317.24] Oh -[317.24 --> 318.24] Oh -[318.24 --> 319.24] Oh -[319.24 --> 320.24] Oh -[320.24 --> 321.24] Oh -[321.24 --> 322.24] Oh -[322.24 --> 323.24] Oh -[323.24 --> 324.24] Oh -[324.24 --> 325.24] Oh -[325.24 --> 334.24] Oh -[334.24 --> 335.24] Oh -[335.24 --> 336.24] Oh -[336.24 --> 337.24] Oh -[337.24 --> 338.24] Oh -[338.24 --> 340.24] And again and again -[340.24 --> 341.24] Oh -[341.24 --> 341.40] Oh -[342.24 --> 343.24] Oh -[343.24 --> 344.24] Oh -[344.24 --> 345.24] Oh -[345.24 --> 346.24] Oh -[346.24 --> 347.24] Oh -[347.24 --> 352.86] Do what only you can do -[352.86 --> 359.02] With one word the mountains move -[359.02 --> 365.14] When you breathe the dead arise -[365.14 --> 368.04] And the bones come back to life -[368.04 --> 371.02] There is power in this room -[374.02 --> 376.84] Where the Spirit of the Lord is -[376.84 --> 383.24] There is life where the Spirit of the Lord is -[383.24 --> 389.06] There is freedom like a river running wild -[389.06 --> 392.22] Like a never-ending fire -[392.22 --> 395.16] Where the Spirit of the Lord is -[395.16 --> 401.32] It's your name that tears down walls -[401.32 --> 407.72] And every enemy will fall -[407.72 --> 413.54] So we will stand and we will fight -[413.54 --> 416.54] That every wrong would be made right -[416.54 --> 419.56] There is power in this room -[419.56 --> 425.96] Oh, believe where the Spirit of the Lord is -[425.96 --> 428.36] There is power in this room -[428.36 --> 432.36] Where the Spirit of the Lord is -[432.36 --> 438.76] There is freedom like a river running wild -[438.76 --> 440.76] Like an ever-ending fire -[440.76 --> 444.58] Where the Spirit of the Lord is -[444.58 --> 450.68] There is life where the Spirit of the Lord is -[450.68 --> 457.08] There is freedom like a river running wild -[457.08 --> 459.08] And ever-ending fire -[459.08 --> 463.48] Where the Spirit of the Lord is -[463.48 --> 469.88] Oh, you're moving through our cities -[469.88 --> 471.88] Your Spirit fills our streets -[471.88 --> 472.88] Your Spirit fills our streets -[472.88 --> 476.28] We're shouting to the nations -[476.28 --> 478.28] Your love is set us free -[478.28 --> 482.28] Your love is set us free -[482.28 --> 482.68] You're moving through our cities -[482.68 --> 484.68] Your Spirit fills our streets -[484.68 --> 487.26] We're shouting to the nations -[487.26 --> 489.80] Your love is set us free -[489.80 --> 493.72] Oh, you're moving through our cities -[493.72 --> 494.74] Your Spirit fills our streets -[494.74 --> 504.74] your spirit fills our streets -[505.30 --> 508.74] where the spirit of the lord is -[511.62 --> 522.74] the spirit of the lord is -[524.74 --> 538.74] lord is -[538.74 --> 544.74] like i'm never in the fire -[544.74 --> 546.74] oh -[547.78 --> 550.74] where the spirit of the lord is -[550.74 --> 580.74] good morning and welcome to worship thank you so much for joining with us this morning as we come together as a community around the region city perhaps even around the country and world to worship our god this morning i want to take just a moment and say happy mother's day to those of you who are mothers we celebrate -[580.74 --> 610.74] -[610.74 --> 628.74] who have lost mothers or mothers who have lost children for people for whom this day is a struggle for whatever reason please know that we love you and it's our hope and prayer that on today and every day that you would experience the peace and the nearness of jesus -[628.74 --> 658.72] as we gather to worship our god there's a couple announcements in addition to that with for our community here and so just want to remind you that tomorrow night is real talk and that will happen live streamed on youtube with pastor kevin and some others and so we invite you to participate in that that starts at seven o'clock and tomorrow night will be a special mother's day edition of real talk and so tune into that and keep your eyes on the -[658.72 --> 688.70] rise out for that as well as well as well as well as well as well as we are part of our gents program which is a young girls program we had gem sunday a couple weeks ago the gems have their final hurrah their their camp day on may 15 and that will take place here at the church both inside and outside weather permitting with different things happening there and so if you are a gems girl or if you have someone in gems you've probably got an email from counselor courtney if you have -[688.70 --> 698.14] yet please reach out to her and double check that also there will be a food drive or an item drive -[698.14 --> 709.26] on may 15 for seeds of hope our deacons are organizing this day from 10 a.m to 12 noon on -[709.26 --> 716.22] may 15 for to drop off things to fill up a container and be part of that work there's a -[716.22 --> 720.70] slide in the pre-service loop that has some of those details but most of those details can be -[720.70 --> 725.90] found in your e-bulletin so if you haven't checked that out yet please look in your e-bulletin -[725.90 --> 732.70] and look for that seeds of hope announcement find out more information there and then finally this -[732.70 --> 739.10] is the last weekend or the last couple days of treat tag and so we're grateful for all of you -[739.10 --> 744.78] who have participated in that and who have really grasped on to this challenge of experiencing -[744.78 --> 749.66] community together and made that a thing and so we've been doing that for about a month now and -[749.66 --> 755.26] we're going to slowly wind that down and so what that means is this isn't your last chance but this -[755.26 --> 761.58] is your last official chance to go out and tag someone and so take that on today or in the next -[761.58 --> 766.54] couple days and just celebrate our community together it's been really really good to see -[766.54 --> 770.78] on social media and in different places people celebrating all of that together -[770.78 --> 780.06] with those announcements made let's come to god together and worship him invite you to stand where -[780.06 --> 786.94] you are or to open your hands to receive the greeting of our god as he welcomes us into his presence for -[786.94 --> 797.50] worship today grace mercy and peace to you from god our father from the lord jesus christ his son and our -[797.50 --> 803.82] savior through the presence and power of the holy spirit and worship god together -[807.50 --> 813.90] good morning join us in praise this morning with our call to worship from psalm 98 shout for joy to -[813.90 --> 820.62] the lord all the earth burst into jupulent song with music make music to the lord with the harp with the -[820.62 --> 837.90] harp and the sound of singing with the trumpets and the blast of the ram's horn shout for joy before the lord the king -[837.90 --> 844.30] and worship from the father and the king and the father and the king and the king and the king -[844.30 --> 854.76] the man alone -[854.76 --> 859.74] the men in the name of the king -[861.18 --> 863.18] o -[863.18 --> 870.80] It is good to praise the Lord. -[870.80 --> 878.18] It is good to gaze upon His majesty. -[878.92 --> 884.48] To proclaim His love in the morning. -[885.48 --> 890.80] And His faithfulness at night. -[890.80 --> 900.00] I know it is good to worship and praise the Lord. -[903.46 --> 910.50] It is good to praise the Lord. -[910.76 --> 916.82] It is good to gaze upon His majesty. -[916.82 --> 923.24] To proclaim His love in the morning. -[924.20 --> 928.82] And His faithfulness at night. -[928.82 --> 937.82] I know it is good to worship and praise the Lord. -[937.82 --> 947.96] Join us in our prayer of confession and assurance. -[947.96 --> 954.32] Dear Lord. -[955.50 --> 957.64] It is good to praise You. -[957.80 --> 959.74] To gaze upon Your majesty. -[960.16 --> 961.56] To be in awe of You. -[963.16 --> 966.54] Forgive us, Lord, when our praise is so little and infrequent. -[967.84 --> 969.62] Our lives are so busy. -[969.76 --> 971.18] So filled with chaos. -[971.38 --> 973.96] It is against the current to sit before You in stillness. -[974.72 --> 975.90] In awe of Your glory. -[975.90 --> 981.12] How often do we proclaim Your love and Your faithfulness? -[982.04 --> 985.44] We confess that all too often we are consumed by fear. -[985.60 --> 987.44] And allow fear to be our narrative. -[989.86 --> 991.88] Draw us back into Your narrative. -[992.74 --> 996.30] Of a God who sent His Son to be crucified for our sins. -[996.68 --> 999.90] Who then rose from the grave and ascended into heaven in victory. -[999.90 --> 1001.88] That we may have new life. -[1001.88 --> 1005.20] And live in assurance of our salvation through Christ. -[1007.04 --> 1009.14] Open our hearts to accept it. -[1009.62 --> 1011.26] And give us words to speak. -[1012.54 --> 1015.76] O God, that the world may come to know You. -[1016.80 --> 1018.16] In Your name we pray. -[1019.12 --> 1019.44] Amen. -[1019.44 --> 1019.58] Amen. -[1019.58 --> 1020.30] Amen. -[1043.24 --> 1043.44] Amen. -[1043.76 --> 1044.12] Amen. -[1044.54 --> 1045.18] Amen. -[1045.18 --> 1069.18] Above all powers, above all kings, above all nature and all created things, above all wisdom and all the ways of man, -[1069.18 --> 1088.18] you were here before the world began. Above all kingdoms, above all thrones, above all wonders the world has ever known. -[1088.18 --> 1103.18] Above all wealth and treasures of the earth, there's no way to measure what your worth. -[1103.18 --> 1123.18] Lucifer, laid behind the stone, you lived to die, rejected and alone like a rose, trampled on the ground. -[1123.18 --> 1134.18] You did the fall, and loved me above all. -[1134.18 --> 1152.18] Above all powers, above all kings, above all nature and all created things, above all wisdom and all the ways of man, -[1152.18 --> 1171.18] above all nature and all created things, above all wisdom and all the ways of man, you were here before the world began. -[1171.18 --> 1184.18] Above all kingdoms, above all kingdoms, above all wonders the world has ever known. -[1184.18 --> 1200.18] Above all wealth and treasures of the earth, there's no way to measure what your worth. -[1200.18 --> 1202.18] país, above allds have ever known. -[1202.18 --> 1208.68] Tubervíen and碠s and iv -[1209.18 --> 1215.18] Tubervíen and碑 the несg replacement things, above alluję, -[1215.18 --> 1217.18] Nice city hillbillen and碑 the innocent home of man, you were here before the world was a mountain staan -[1217.18 --> 1218.18] and you were here before the earth, you played an island joins Siemens embracing it, far away from the earth. -[1218.18 --> 1220.18] the ground -[1220.18 --> 1224.18] you talk the fall -[1224.18 --> 1228.18] and the body -[1228.18 --> 1232.18] above all -[1232.18 --> 1236.18] crucifer -[1236.18 --> 1240.18] lay behind the stone -[1240.18 --> 1242.18] you live to die -[1242.18 --> 1246.18] rejected and alone -[1246.18 --> 1248.18] you took a rose -[1248.18 --> 1252.18] trampled on the ground -[1252.18 --> 1256.18] you took a fall -[1256.18 --> 1258.18] and the body -[1258.18 --> 1264.18] above all -[1264.18 --> 1274.18] the world -[1274.18 --> 1276.18] the world -[1276.18 --> 1278.18] the world -[1278.18 --> 1280.18] the world -[1280.18 --> 1282.18] the world -[1282.18 --> 1284.18] the world -[1284.18 --> 1286.18] how's everyone doing today -[1286.18 --> 1288.18] how are you guys doing -[1288.18 --> 1290.18] happy -[1290.18 --> 1292.18] some of you are a bit tired -[1292.18 --> 1294.18] I can relate to that -[1294.18 --> 1296.18] did you guys know that it's kind of a special day -[1296.18 --> 1298.18] you might have heard that today is Mother's Day -[1298.18 --> 1300.18] and maybe you've done a few special things for your mom -[1300.18 --> 1302.18] or a grandma -[1302.18 --> 1304.18] or somebody special in your life -[1304.18 --> 1306.18] which is exciting -[1306.18 --> 1308.18] so today my kids did something really special for me -[1308.18 --> 1310.18] they took all the time away -[1310.18 --> 1312.18] that I would have to decide what to wear -[1312.18 --> 1314.18] and they picked out all of my clothes -[1314.18 --> 1318.18] so you can tell that I'm dressed much better than I normally am -[1318.18 --> 1320.18] I have all sorts of colors on -[1320.18 --> 1322.18] and more than one necklace -[1322.18 --> 1324.18] and they even thought about my cold feet -[1324.18 --> 1326.18] my feet are always cold -[1326.18 --> 1328.18] so they gave me -[1328.18 --> 1330.18] I don't know if you can see this at home -[1330.18 --> 1332.18] but they gave me socks to wear underneath my sandals -[1332.18 --> 1334.18] so this is why I look so nice today -[1334.18 --> 1338.18] now I have a little tip for anybody who is looking for compliments -[1338.18 --> 1340.18] which is probably everyone -[1340.18 --> 1342.18] because we like compliments -[1342.18 --> 1344.18] but if you want compliments -[1344.18 --> 1346.18] and this is for anyone not just mothers -[1346.18 --> 1348.18] anybody can do this you just have to have a kid who you can invite over -[1348.18 --> 1350.18] let them pick out your clothes -[1350.18 --> 1354.18] because I have never had as many compliments as I had this morning from my family -[1354.18 --> 1356.18] so just a little advice there -[1356.18 --> 1358.18] we're going to jump right on in -[1358.18 --> 1360.18] it's a new month -[1360.18 --> 1362.18] and that means we have a new memory verse -[1362.18 --> 1366.18] so I'm going to read it out for everybody first -[1366.18 --> 1368.18] and just encourage anybody -[1368.18 --> 1370.18] however old you are -[1370.18 --> 1372.18] to join in as our community here -[1372.18 --> 1376.18] in learning this verse from the book of Isaiah -[1376.18 --> 1378.18] it goes like this -[1378.18 --> 1380.18] for I am the Lord your God -[1380.18 --> 1382.18] who takes hold of your right hand -[1382.18 --> 1384.18] and says to you -[1384.18 --> 1385.18] do not fear -[1385.18 --> 1387.18] I will help you -[1387.18 --> 1390.18] Isaiah 41 verse 13 -[1390.18 --> 1392.18] so let's learn some actions -[1392.18 --> 1394.18] because that might help us remember -[1394.18 --> 1396.18] so do them along with me -[1396.18 --> 1398.18] they're not too hard this time -[1398.18 --> 1399.18] it goes like this -[1399.18 --> 1400.18] some of them we've done before -[1400.18 --> 1403.18] so I am the Lord your God -[1403.18 --> 1406.18] who takes hold of your right hand -[1406.18 --> 1408.18] and says to you -[1408.18 --> 1410.18] do not fear -[1410.18 --> 1412.18] I will help you -[1412.18 --> 1414.18] Isaiah 41 verse 13 -[1414.18 --> 1415.18] now some of those are -[1415.18 --> 1417.18] what we call American Sign Language -[1417.18 --> 1420.18] that's a language that people speak using hand actions -[1420.18 --> 1421.18] so this one here -[1421.18 --> 1422.18] fear -[1422.18 --> 1424.18] this is how you do fear in sign language -[1424.18 --> 1425.18] and help -[1425.18 --> 1427.18] you want to stick your thumb up -[1427.18 --> 1429.18] and on your other hand resting -[1429.18 --> 1431.18] and then pull it towards your chest -[1431.18 --> 1433.18] so that is -[1433.18 --> 1434.18] I will help you -[1434.18 --> 1436.18] we're going to work on that for the rest of the month -[1436.18 --> 1439.18] if anybody wants a photo card -[1439.18 --> 1441.18] there are a few of these at the church -[1441.18 --> 1444.18] and you can also find the image in the midweek memo -[1444.18 --> 1446.18] or the bulletin when it goes out -[1447.18 --> 1450.18] alright so we're going to jump right into our story today -[1450.18 --> 1453.18] our story today comes from two books of the Bible -[1453.18 --> 1455.18] we're going to start in the book of Matthew -[1455.18 --> 1458.18] and then we're going to move into a book called Acts -[1458.18 --> 1459.18] and you guys probably remember -[1459.18 --> 1461.18] besides last week we had a little interlude -[1461.18 --> 1465.18] where Mrs. Wendy was here to share with us the story of Joseph -[1465.18 --> 1468.18] but before that we've been learning about the life of Jesus -[1468.18 --> 1470.18] so in our story today -[1470.18 --> 1473.18] it's the very end of Jesus' time on earth -[1473.18 --> 1476.18] and the story is called Jesus' Ascension -[1476.18 --> 1477.18] now I'm wondering if -[1477.18 --> 1479.18] does anyone know what Ascension means? -[1479.18 --> 1481.18] you guys know what that means? -[1481.18 --> 1485.18] it basically means to rise up higher -[1485.18 --> 1487.18] to rise up to a different level -[1487.18 --> 1491.18] so can you think about some ways that you can make yourself rise up? -[1491.18 --> 1493.18] name them out loud -[1493.18 --> 1495.18] what are some things that you could do to rise up? -[1495.18 --> 1498.18] so that's right you could jump -[1498.18 --> 1499.18] you guys try that right now -[1499.18 --> 1500.18] you can jump -[1500.18 --> 1501.18] that brings you higher -[1501.18 --> 1502.18] and then you come down -[1502.18 --> 1503.18] but it does bring you higher -[1503.18 --> 1504.18] what else could you do? -[1504.18 --> 1506.18] so I was trying to think of what do I do to get higher -[1506.18 --> 1510.18] and in my house I usually need to reach things that I can't -[1510.18 --> 1514.18] so I often have to stand on a chair or a stool to reach something -[1514.18 --> 1518.18] or sometimes when my kids can't get something I can lift them up to help them -[1518.18 --> 1520.18] and those are some different ways we rise up -[1520.18 --> 1524.18] you've maybe been in an airplane or climbed a flight of stairs -[1524.18 --> 1527.18] all of those things mean that we are ascending -[1527.18 --> 1529.18] we're going up to a higher level -[1529.18 --> 1533.18] so in our story today we're going to learn about how Jesus did that -[1533.18 --> 1537.18] and I'm going to read it to you first from the book of Matthew here -[1537.18 --> 1541.18] so the Bible tells us that Jesus -[1541.18 --> 1544.18] he invited his disciples to meet him on a certain mountain -[1544.18 --> 1546.18] and he liked to do that when he was on earth -[1546.18 --> 1548.18] they often went to mountains -[1548.18 --> 1551.18] and this time he had something else very important to tell them -[1551.18 --> 1555.18] just like when maybe your parent or teacher has something important to tell you -[1555.18 --> 1558.18] so all of the disciples were there -[1558.18 --> 1560.18] Jesus came and he spoke to them -[1560.18 --> 1562.18] he told them something important -[1562.18 --> 1563.18] this is what he said -[1563.18 --> 1567.18] he said you must go and make disciples of all nations -[1567.18 --> 1572.18] baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit -[1572.18 --> 1576.18] and teach them to obey everything I have commanded you -[1576.18 --> 1581.18] and you can be sure that I am always with you to the very end -[1581.18 --> 1585.18] so there are three important things Jesus said in there -[1585.18 --> 1587.18] do you guys know what those are? -[1587.18 --> 1590.18] what were the three important ideas that Jesus commanded them? -[1590.18 --> 1591.18] I'll read it one more time -[1591.18 --> 1594.18] and then maybe you can say out loud what those things are -[1594.18 --> 1598.18] he said you must go and make disciples of all nations -[1598.18 --> 1603.18] baptize them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit -[1603.18 --> 1606.18] and teach them to obey everything I have commanded you -[1606.18 --> 1611.18] and you can be sure that I am always with you to the very end -[1611.18 --> 1614.18] so what were those three ideas? -[1614.18 --> 1616.18] I have some pictures maybe if you can't help -[1616.18 --> 1617.18] can't remember here -[1617.18 --> 1618.18] so the first one -[1618.18 --> 1620.18] this is a picture here -[1620.18 --> 1621.18] I don't know if that helps -[1621.18 --> 1623.18] the first thing that Jesus said there was -[1623.18 --> 1625.18] to make disciples of all nations -[1625.18 --> 1630.18] so to show Jesus' love to the whole world -[1630.18 --> 1632.18] so that was the first idea that he told them -[1632.18 --> 1635.18] who can think of the second idea? -[1635.18 --> 1638.18] we got to see a little bit of this idea -[1638.18 --> 1641.18] last Sunday in church actually -[1641.18 --> 1642.18] here's another picture -[1642.18 --> 1644.18] you can see what that is -[1644.18 --> 1645.18] the baptism -[1645.18 --> 1649.18] so he instructed them to baptize people who believe in Jesus -[1649.18 --> 1650.18] who love God -[1650.18 --> 1652.18] so there's baptism -[1652.18 --> 1653.18] and what was the third one? -[1653.18 --> 1655.18] you know what the third one was? -[1655.18 --> 1657.18] here's a picture of it -[1657.18 --> 1661.18] he said to teach them to obey what he has commanded -[1661.18 --> 1666.18] and then there was something even kind of extra cool at the end -[1666.18 --> 1669.18] that Jesus promised them that he would always be with them -[1669.18 --> 1671.18] to the very end -[1671.18 --> 1673.18] I really like that part -[1673.18 --> 1678.18] now does it kind of sound like Jesus is going somewhere do you think? -[1678.18 --> 1681.18] well let's find out -[1681.18 --> 1683.18] so for in the book of Acts -[1683.18 --> 1685.18] this story kind of keeps going -[1685.18 --> 1688.18] and it says that for 40 days after Jesus resurrected -[1688.18 --> 1693.18] he kept appearing to his disciples to show them that he was really alive -[1693.18 --> 1695.18] well he had a lot to tell them -[1695.18 --> 1696.18] lots of instructions for them -[1696.18 --> 1699.18] and he taught them more about the kingdom of God -[1700.18 --> 1703.18] well one night at supper he told them something very important -[1704.18 --> 1705.18] it was a bit surprising for them -[1705.18 --> 1707.18] and it wasn't just a suggestion -[1707.18 --> 1708.18] it was a command -[1708.18 --> 1711.18] something he really wanted them to do -[1711.18 --> 1712.18] and he said this -[1712.18 --> 1713.18] don't leave Jerusalem -[1713.18 --> 1714.18] wait -[1714.18 --> 1717.18] for a gift that my father has promised you -[1717.18 --> 1718.18] I've told you about it before -[1718.18 --> 1721.18] John baptized people with water -[1721.18 --> 1724.18] but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit -[1725.18 --> 1727.18] I wonder what they thought about that -[1728.18 --> 1731.18] well when they met together again the disciples had some questions -[1731.18 --> 1733.18] they didn't quite understand -[1733.18 --> 1734.18] so much had happened lately -[1734.18 --> 1735.18] Jesus died -[1735.18 --> 1736.18] then he rose again -[1736.18 --> 1739.18] and then he kept just appearing to them out of nowhere -[1739.18 --> 1743.18] and now he was talking about some strange and unusual gift -[1743.18 --> 1745.18] so they asked Jesus -[1745.18 --> 1748.18] Lord are you going to set up an earthly kingdom -[1748.18 --> 1750.18] right here in Jerusalem -[1750.18 --> 1753.18] well they had hoped that Jesus would be an earthly king -[1753.18 --> 1755.18] to defeat all their enemies -[1755.18 --> 1756.18] but Jesus said -[1756.18 --> 1760.18] well no it's not time for you to know when I will come to rule the earth -[1760.18 --> 1764.18] but you will receive a special power when the Holy Spirit comes on you -[1764.18 --> 1766.18] you will be my witnesses -[1766.18 --> 1768.18] you'll tell everyone about me -[1768.18 --> 1771.18] here in Jerusalem and in all the whole world -[1771.18 --> 1773.18] throughout the whole world -[1773.18 --> 1775.18] well after Jesus said this -[1775.18 --> 1778.18] he was taken up in the sky -[1778.18 --> 1780.18] right in front of their eyes -[1780.18 --> 1783.18] a cloud covered him -[1783.18 --> 1786.18] and that was the last time they ever saw Jesus -[1786.18 --> 1791.18] well if you were there and you saw Jesus just rise up -[1791.18 --> 1794.18] what would go through your mind -[1794.18 --> 1799.18] would that be a little bit surprising that he just got taken up into the clouds -[1799.18 --> 1801.18] where was he going -[1801.18 --> 1802.18] was he coming back -[1802.18 --> 1806.18] while the disciples were still straining their eyes looking to see Jesus -[1806.18 --> 1810.18] two men suddenly dressed in white stood beside them -[1810.18 --> 1811.18] and they spoke to the disciples -[1811.18 --> 1812.18] they said -[1812.18 --> 1813.18] men of Galilee -[1813.18 --> 1815.18] why are you standing here -[1815.18 --> 1817.18] why are you looking into the sky -[1817.18 --> 1820.18] this same Jesus who has been taken up to heaven -[1820.18 --> 1821.18] he will come back again -[1821.18 --> 1825.18] and he will come back in the same way that you saw him go -[1825.18 --> 1829.18] well imagine that you are a disciple -[1829.18 --> 1834.18] think about all the things that you have seen and heard and learned about Jesus -[1834.18 --> 1836.18] while he was on earth -[1836.18 --> 1842.18] how will you explain all of that and share all of that with the people around you -[1842.18 --> 1846.18] well Jesus left us this job to do too -[1846.18 --> 1847.18] not just the disciples -[1847.18 --> 1849.18] to teach others about him -[1849.18 --> 1851.18] to share his love of the world -[1851.18 --> 1853.18] to baptize people -[1853.18 --> 1858.18] and he promises that he will be with us always to the very end -[1858.18 --> 1861.18] let's join together and pray -[1862.18 --> 1865.18] Lord Jesus thank you for your life on earth -[1865.18 --> 1869.18] thank you for showing us what it means to love and teach and obey -[1869.18 --> 1875.18] God please give us courage and strength to share your love to our community around us -[1875.18 --> 1877.18] our families our friends our neighbors -[1877.18 --> 1879.18] and thank you that you promise to be with us -[1879.18 --> 1881.18] that you answer our questions -[1881.18 --> 1884.18] and that you show us your love each day -[1884.18 --> 1885.18] Amen -[1885.18 --> 1899.18] well good morning my name is Glenn -[1899.18 --> 1901.18] I'm an elder here at Langley Emanuel Church -[1901.18 --> 1904.18] before we join in our congregational prayer -[1904.18 --> 1906.18] I have a couple of announcements -[1906.18 --> 1909.18] the first one is for today's offerings -[1909.18 --> 1913.18] today we continue to worship by giving back to the Lord -[1913.18 --> 1915.18] what he has blessed us with first -[1915.18 --> 1919.18] please give generously as you have been given -[1919.18 --> 1922.18] the first offering is for the church budget -[1922.18 --> 1926.18] in order to support our staff building and ministries -[1926.18 --> 1930.18] the special offering on this Mother's Day is for advocate -[1930.18 --> 1936.18] Psalm 139 verses 13 through 15 say -[1936.18 --> 1940.18] for you created me or created my inmost being -[1940.18 --> 1942.18] you knit me together in my mother's womb -[1942.18 --> 1945.18] I praise you for I am fearfully and wonderfully made -[1945.18 --> 1950.18] in a world where we too often judge individuals by what they can do -[1950.18 --> 1957.18] rather than who they are advocate exists to promote the inherent worth and dignity of every human being -[1957.18 --> 1961.18] helping the community at large and young people especially -[1961.18 --> 1966.18] to see value in everyone is vital to building a better future where everyone is -[1966.18 --> 1970.18] every person is treated with respect and equality -[1970.18 --> 1974.18] education is the heart of how we achieve our mission -[1974.18 --> 1983.18] advocate produces top quality educational videos and speakers relating to the dignity of the human person -[1983.18 --> 1986.18] these are available to the public at no charge -[1986.18 --> 1992.18] advocate takes an evidence first approach to education -[1992.18 --> 2003.18] and we give presentations on a variety of variety of topics including pregnancy sexual integrity adoption medical aid in dying -[2003.18 --> 2007.18] biology of prenatal development and abortion -[2007.18 --> 2014.18] advocate also operates to hope for women pregnancy services located in Abbotsford and in Langley -[2014.18 --> 2023.18] hope for women pregnancy services offer a safe confidential and compassionate place for any woman who thinks that she may be pregnant -[2023.18 --> 2032.18] our services are free and include pregnancy tests options counseling referrals to community resources and ongoing friendship -[2032.18 --> 2039.18] and support peer trained counselors provide information and help to explore all options -[2039.18 --> 2045.18] parenting adoption abortion allowing a woman to make an informed decision -[2045.18 --> 2053.18] hope for women is also able to provide maternity and baby supplies to assist our clients for up to two years after the baby is born -[2053.18 --> 2059.18] these are available at no charge donations of supplies are always welcome -[2059.18 --> 2066.18] next week the offerings will be for the church budget and also for seeds of hope children's ministry -[2066.18 --> 2077.18] please remember to drop off items this coming Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon for the container that they are hoping to send to a orphanage in Zambia in June -[2077.18 --> 2090.18] please refer to the bulletins for a list of needs should you simply want to help with the cost of sending and filling the container your financial donations are much needed and appreciated -[2090.18 --> 2096.18] the second announcement concerns concerns a nomination for elders and deacons -[2096.18 --> 2101.18] we are thankful for the nominees who have agreed to let their name stand for church office -[2101.18 --> 2105.18] and they are as follows for admin elder -[2105.18 --> 2108.18] Pim Schoen, Peter Van Heusen -[2108.18 --> 2115.18] for pastoral elder Rob Aukama, Dave Harris, Ken Hohooning, Eric Hubertz and Daryl Wind -[2115.18 --> 2117.18] and for the office of Deacon -[2117.18 --> 2124.18] Jeremy Grimm, Leslie Kuhl, Clem Molenkamp, Mike Roersma and Lena Chepkama -[2124.18 --> 2131.18] next Sunday May 16th you will be asked to confirm the nominees for office by electronic ballot -[2131.18 --> 2142.18] this process is not an election but rather your confirmation will affirm that each of the nominees is capable of serving in the position that they have been nominated for -[2142.18 --> 2149.18] once the congregation has confirmed the nominees they will be selected by lot as is our custom -[2149.18 --> 2158.18] if you have any concerns with any of the nominees please contact your district elder or a member of church council -[2158.18 --> 2164.18] of church council -[2164.18 --> 2168.18] let's go to God in our time of congregational prayer -[2168.18 --> 2174.18] Father in heaven it is our privilege to come to you in prayer this morning -[2174.18 --> 2180.18] you are almighty God and we acknowledge your sovereignty over all of creation -[2180.18 --> 2186.18] you are the author of our salvation and we thank you for the gift of your son -[2186.18 --> 2192.18] whose death and resurrection lifted the burden of sin and of shame from us -[2192.18 --> 2198.18] we thank you for the joy and the comfort that you give us knowing that Christ has paid for our sin -[2198.18 --> 2201.18] and has made us into new creations -[2201.18 --> 2206.18] reconciled to you and set apart to be his ambassadors -[2206.18 --> 2210.18] we thank you for your holy spirit who lives in us -[2210.18 --> 2214.18] and works through us to bring glory and honor to Christ Jesus -[2215.18 --> 2217.18] Father we thank you for this sabbath day -[2217.18 --> 2219.18] a day of rest from a regular work -[2219.18 --> 2223.18] and we ask that this day may be a day of rest in you -[2223.18 --> 2227.18] help us to trust in you for everything that we need -[2227.18 --> 2233.18] Father on this Sunday we'd like to take time to appreciate and celebrate our mothers -[2233.18 --> 2243.18] we thank you for our mothers and the countless ways that they have and continue to demonstrate their unconditional love and their grace to us -[2244.18 --> 2250.18] we thank you for the ways in which our mothers have and continue to nurture us and point us to you -[2250.18 --> 2258.18] we ask for your blessing on our mothers and pray that they may reflect the glory of Christ in all that they do -[2258.18 --> 2262.18] strengthen and encourage them in all of their endeavors -[2262.18 --> 2269.18] and we ask that we may be a blessing to them by honoring them and by bringing joy to them -[2269.18 --> 2279.18] be with those who are grieving the loss of a mother or those who didn't have a loving or nurturing mother or were unable to be a mother -[2279.18 --> 2281.18] Father where such pain exists -[2282.18 --> 2286.18] please grant your peace and be a comforting presence to them -[2287.18 --> 2290.18] Father we thank you for this congregation -[2290.18 --> 2296.18] and the ways that it has shown your love as expressed by the Polmans -[2297.18 --> 2300.18] and just thank you for the opportunity to do that -[2300.18 --> 2304.18] and we ask that you continue to strengthen us as a congregation -[2305.18 --> 2310.18] so that we may encourage and bless one another on an ongoing basis and in all that we do -[2311.18 --> 2317.18] thank you for those who are involved in making weekly worship happen -[2317.18 --> 2320.18] we also ask for your blessing on the leadership of this church -[2321.18 --> 2322.18] grant them wisdom -[2323.18 --> 2328.18] and we also ask for your blessing on the nomination process for office bearers -[2331.18 --> 2335.18] Father we have been dealing with the effects of COVID for a little over a year -[2336.18 --> 2342.18] and we acknowledge that all of creation is your hand in your hand including this virus -[2342.18 --> 2347.18] and so we ask you for recovery for those that have contracted it -[2348.18 --> 2352.18] strength for medical folks who treat the effects of it -[2353.18 --> 2360.18] and wisdom for those who develop and deliver vaccines and therapies to counteract it -[2361.18 --> 2365.18] be with those who have had their surgeries cancelled -[2366.18 --> 2368.18] and grant them peace as they have to wait -[2368.18 --> 2371.18] can be very frustrating and just be near to them Lord -[2372.18 --> 2376.18] we ask that our hospitals may be able to resume normal operations soon -[2377.18 --> 2379.18] bless all who are shut in -[2380.18 --> 2383.18] or can't see family due to restrictions on gathering -[2384.18 --> 2389.18] and in some cases Lord they experience sadness loneliness -[2390.18 --> 2392.18] even depression and anxiety as a result -[2392.18 --> 2394.18] walk beside them each day -[2395.18 --> 2396.18] and help them -[2397.18 --> 2398.18] and us -[2399.18 --> 2400.18] as our brothers and sisters in Christ -[2401.18 --> 2403.18] help us to minister to them in meaningful -[2404.18 --> 2405.18] and -[2406.18 --> 2407.18] meaningful ways Lord -[2408.18 --> 2409.18] Father we thank you for your word -[2410.18 --> 2411.18] which guides our path -[2412.18 --> 2413.18] bless the reading of it -[2414.18 --> 2416.18] and bless Pastor Chris with the rich measure of your Holy Spirit -[2417.18 --> 2418.18] as he brings your word to us -[2418.18 --> 2421.18] we pray that we will take the words to heart -[2422.18 --> 2423.18] and cause us to be a blessing to all of those around us -[2424.18 --> 2425.18] we ask it in Jesus name -[2426.18 --> 2427.18] amen -[2428.18 --> 2429.18] as we open God's word together -[2430.18 --> 2432.18] we're going to read from Acts 1 -[2432.18 --> 2433.18] and we're going to read Acts 1 and then verse 1 through 11 -[2433.18 --> 2434.18] and so I invite you of course to grab a Bible -[2435.18 --> 2445.18] or turn on your device or wherever it is that you keep God's word and get flipped to Acts 1 there -[2446.18 --> 2449.18] before we begin let me just say a little bit of a Bible -[2449.18 --> 2452.18] род or turn on your Bible -[2452.18 --> 2454.18] or whatever it is that you keep it something on the Bible -[2457.18 --> 2458.18] but your word is going to be expected than the church very often -[2459.18 --> 2460.18] possible -[2460.18 --> 2462.18] to complete their 12 hundred years -[2462.18 --> 2464.18] but your word is missing important -[2464.18 --> 2465.18] so yeah -[2466.18 --> 2468.52] that dude is самой -[2469.18 --> 2470.34] tell me to you -[2471.18 --> 2473.18] tic shotgun -[2474.18 --> 2475.18] 2 -[2475.18 --> 2479.94] Nikki did children's time. She talked about Jesus appearing to the disciples over a period of 40 -[2479.94 --> 2485.26] days after the resurrection, and you're trying to quickly count the days, and you're like, wait a -[2485.26 --> 2490.62] minute, it's not 40 days since Easter Sunday. What's going on? And you would be right. And so -[2490.62 --> 2497.74] Ascension Day is actually this coming Thursday, but we are celebrating that here on Sunday together -[2497.74 --> 2504.14] in our worship prior to that Thursday, because this is the time that we have to gather and -[2504.14 --> 2511.26] remember. And so Ascension Day is on Thursday. That is 40 days after the resurrection of Jesus, and -[2511.26 --> 2519.88] in our worship today, we remember what it is that, what it means for us that Jesus went up to heaven, -[2519.88 --> 2527.14] and in our broader church tradition and history, in the liturgy of the year, Ascension Day is often -[2527.14 --> 2533.70] used to reflect the sort of kingship of Jesus as he ascends to the right hand of God the Father, -[2534.14 --> 2542.46] and he sits on his throne of grace in heaven. With that quick explanation, let's read the story -[2542.46 --> 2548.38] once again and hear it as we can find it in Acts 1, starting in verse 1. -[2548.38 --> 2560.62] In my former book, Theophilus, so Luke writes this book, and he's writing it to someone named Theophilus. He -[2560.62 --> 2565.84] also wrote the Gospel of Luke. These two sort of come together as one. He says, in my former book, -[2565.98 --> 2573.20] Theophilus, I wrote all about all that Jesus began to do and to teach until the day he was taken up to -[2573.20 --> 2579.66] heaven after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. After his -[2579.66 --> 2585.62] suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared -[2585.62 --> 2591.90] to them over a period of 40 days and spoke about the kingdom of God, and on one occasion, while he was -[2591.90 --> 2598.60] eating with them, he gave them this command. Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my father -[2598.60 --> 2605.16] promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will -[2605.16 --> 2613.80] be baptized with the Holy Spirit. Then they gathered around him and asked him, Lord, are you at this time -[2613.80 --> 2620.94] going to restore the kingdom to Israel? He said to them, it is not for you to know the times or the dates -[2620.94 --> 2627.24] the father has set by his own authority, but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you -[2627.24 --> 2633.12] will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the ends of the earth. -[2634.50 --> 2641.32] After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. -[2642.70 --> 2648.62] They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white -[2648.62 --> 2656.90] stood beside them. Men of Galilee, they said, why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same -[2656.90 --> 2664.28] Jesus who has been taken from you into heaven will come back in the same way that you have seen him go -[2664.28 --> 2667.60] into heaven. This is the word of the Lord. -[2672.74 --> 2680.52] This morning we're going to look at what happens in the ascension. We're going to look at how -[2680.52 --> 2688.96] that changes or how that fuels our worship of Jesus and how that fuels our mission with him. -[2689.06 --> 2693.46] And we're going to jump around to a couple stories, and so I of course encourage you to keep your Bibles -[2693.46 --> 2699.16] handy. We will see some of those texts on the screen if you've put that away, but Bible in hand, -[2699.36 --> 2702.72] I think, is always going to be better for our shared learning together. -[2702.72 --> 2712.36] As we begin, I want to just emphasize and really kind of empathize that I understand that talking -[2712.36 --> 2719.24] about Ascension Day and the sort of closeness that we can have with Jesus as a result of the -[2719.24 --> 2726.22] ascension, as the result of him leaving this earth, can seem counterintuitive. And honestly, -[2726.22 --> 2734.58] I get that. That makes sense to me. If I go away for a week, I haven't done that in a long time, -[2734.64 --> 2740.40] but if I previously went to travel for something for church business or for work or to a conference -[2740.40 --> 2749.82] or something, when I went away for a week, right, there's a longing in there to come home and to get -[2749.82 --> 2755.24] back to my wife and to my kids. And we all heard the phrase, right, absence makes the heart grow -[2755.24 --> 2765.84] fonder. But being apart in and of itself doesn't draw them closer to me, right? What draws us closer -[2765.84 --> 2773.10] isn't the being apart, really, it's the coming home. But even then, after I've been away for a week in the -[2773.10 --> 2779.60] coming home, there's still life stuff that happened, right? Things that Rachel had to do and experience -[2779.60 --> 2784.90] and go through on her own while I was away and things that I went through and had to learn and did -[2784.90 --> 2791.64] on my own while I was away. And we have to talk about that. We have to come together in the sharing -[2791.64 --> 2799.28] of that. We need to bring those experiences together so that we can feel close again, right? We know that -[2799.28 --> 2809.44] ordinarily speaking, nearness brings closeness, right? Being in proximity is required to feel close -[2809.44 --> 2814.92] to someone. That's why, for instance, long distance relationships are so hard, right? Because -[2814.92 --> 2822.42] nearness brings closeness. And so that really begs the question for us this morning. How then does the -[2822.42 --> 2832.52] ascension of Jesus, in fact, bring him closer to us? I'm going to make this point. Let's look at another -[2832.52 --> 2843.12] Bible story. If your Bible is open to Acts, flip over a page or two to John 20. John 20, I want to -[2843.12 --> 2849.70] share with you quickly the story of Jesus appearing to Mary Magdalene. And so the group of women had come -[2849.70 --> 2855.38] to the tomb. They found it empty and they ran back to the disciples. They came, they saw it empty. They saw -[2855.38 --> 2861.36] that the cloth had been neatly folded. The disciples came and saw all of this, confirmed that message that -[2861.36 --> 2869.42] was told to them. And then they left, really confused. Mary, we're told, stayed alone at the tomb. -[2870.24 --> 2878.88] This is that story. Now, Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the -[2878.88 --> 2884.76] tomb and saw two angels in white seated where Jesus' body had been, one at the head and the other at the -[2884.76 --> 2893.04] foot. They asked her, woman, why are you crying? They've taken my Lord away, she said, and I don't -[2893.04 --> 2900.64] know where they have put him. And at this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not -[2900.64 --> 2909.66] realize that it was Jesus. He asked her, woman, why are you crying? Who is it that you are looking for? -[2909.66 --> 2915.54] Thinking it was the gardener, she said, sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put -[2915.54 --> 2924.12] him and I will get him. And Jesus said to her, Mary. And she turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, -[2924.18 --> 2932.00] Rabboni, which means teacher. And Jesus said, do not hold on to me for I have not yet ascended to the -[2932.00 --> 2941.64] father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them I am ascending to my father, to your father, to my God -[2941.64 --> 2948.26] and your God. Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news. I have seen the Lord. -[2949.60 --> 2961.08] Told them that he had said these things to her. Now notice what Jesus says, do not hold on to me for I -[2961.08 --> 2970.64] have not yet returned to my father. Now, when we first read this story, we might think that Jesus -[2970.64 --> 2978.72] is saying to her, don't touch me, right? Like he can't be touched, that he's too pure or too holy or -[2978.72 --> 2984.52] something. Except, of course, that in just a few verses, Jesus is going to tell Thomas, put your -[2984.52 --> 2993.44] hands in my side, touch the holes in my hands, right? Jesus says to Thomas, touch me. Instead, -[2993.92 --> 2998.78] in Mary's story, and this is one of the places where we're knowing the Greek text that this was -[2998.78 --> 3003.92] originally written in, where that really helps, the word that John uses that our Bibles translate, -[3004.12 --> 3009.64] do not touch me, do not hold on to me, is a word that means to squeeze tight. -[3009.64 --> 3017.18] And so, you can picture it, right? Mary turns, and when she hears Jesus, who she thought was a gardener, -[3017.54 --> 3023.62] speak her name, she recognizes who it is, and she wraps her arms around him and squeezes him tight. -[3023.94 --> 3034.80] She holds on to him with all of her might. Sometimes when I come home from work, after a day's long work, -[3034.80 --> 3041.84] my kids run up to me, and they give me a little hug, and then they run off and say, welcome home. -[3043.38 --> 3049.40] But, if I'm putting one of my kids to bed, and I have a meeting that I need to get to, -[3050.32 --> 3055.64] right, they squeeze me extra tight, and they say, don't go, daddy, don't go, read me another story. -[3056.74 --> 3062.48] So, my daughter will squeeze me and hold on to me and keep me as close as possible so that I can't -[3062.48 --> 3070.64] leave. That's what Mary is doing in this moment, right? She thinks that she has lost Jesus and -[3070.64 --> 3075.74] finds him again, and that if she just holds on to him tight enough, she won't lose him again. -[3076.36 --> 3084.20] She wants him close, close enough to hold on tightly. And that's when Jesus says, don't squeeze -[3084.20 --> 3091.74] me, don't hold on to me. I am returning to my Father. And what he is promising here in these words -[3091.74 --> 3101.68] is the nearness of the ascension. Jesus is saying, effectively, if I go to be with my Father, I will be -[3101.68 --> 3108.32] closer than I am right now, in this moment, with your arms wrapped around me, squeezing tightly. -[3108.32 --> 3116.50] Because if he goes, he won't be in her arms. Instead, and this is the best part, I think, of the -[3116.50 --> 3122.08] ascension and the promise of the ascension, instead of being squeezed tightly in her arms, Jesus promises -[3122.08 --> 3132.84] that he will be in her heart. Think about it. When Jesus is physically present, even in his resurrected -[3132.84 --> 3139.58] body, which can appear in locked rooms, can disappear from sight, someone can look directly at him and not -[3139.58 --> 3146.18] recognize who it is. There's something different about his resurrected body. But even in that body, -[3146.28 --> 3155.84] he is only ever where he is. But if he ascends, and he sends the promised spirit in the presence, -[3155.84 --> 3166.18] in the form of the Holy Spirit, then Jesus is present wherever you are, because you carry his -[3166.18 --> 3174.42] presence with you when you have the Holy Spirit. Augustine, who was a fourth and fifth century church -[3174.42 --> 3182.26] theologian and leader in the church back then, he says this, he said, you ascended from before our eyes, -[3182.26 --> 3188.04] and we turn back grieving only to find you in our hearts. -[3189.98 --> 3199.30] This is the promise of the ascension. This is what Jesus said would happen. In fact, keep flipping back in your -[3199.30 --> 3206.92] Bible to John 16. John 16, Jesus says, -[3206.92 --> 3213.70] Now I am going to him who sent me. None of you asks me, where are you going? Rather, you are filled with grief -[3213.70 --> 3219.92] because I've said these things. But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I'm going away. -[3220.28 --> 3225.92] Unless I go away, the advocate, and that's another word that we use for the Holy Spirit, the advocate -[3225.92 --> 3234.16] will not come to you, but if I go, I will send him to you. And when he, the spirit of truth, the advocate, -[3234.16 --> 3241.74] comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own. He will speak only what he hears, -[3241.90 --> 3248.96] and he will tell you what is yet to come. He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive -[3248.96 --> 3256.72] what he will make known to you. All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the spirit -[3256.72 --> 3269.02] will receive from me what he will make known. Nearness brings closeness, and there's nothing -[3269.02 --> 3280.06] nearer to you than in you, in your heart. One writer that I read paraphrases Jesus' words to Mary. -[3280.06 --> 3287.26] It says, you can let go of my hand, for I can give you something better than my hand. -[3287.86 --> 3294.76] I can put my heart in your heart. The ascension of Jesus makes this possible. -[3295.70 --> 3303.48] He can be near to you precisely because his physical body has left this earthly plane. -[3303.48 --> 3310.94] Because of the ascension, some of the most comforting words in all of scripture are true, -[3311.32 --> 3318.32] right, that I will never leave you nor forsake you. Or in the Great Commission, which Nikki shared with us -[3318.32 --> 3325.32] earlier, right, some of the last words of Jesus, he says, and surely I am with you always to the very -[3325.32 --> 3333.14] end of the age. Jesus ascending up to the Father, Jesus going up to the Father makes possible for you to -[3333.14 --> 3341.54] receive him into your heart. His leaving is, in fact, for our receiving. -[3343.54 --> 3351.26] And from the right hand of the Father, he is still doing the work that he did before, right? He's still -[3351.26 --> 3358.94] doing the work of reconciling the world to God and restoring it and us to his intended design. -[3358.94 --> 3367.94] But now, oh, but now you don't have to be in a particular place to hear from him or to see him -[3367.94 --> 3374.74] at work because now, by the Holy Spirit, that work is happening wherever you are, anywhere you are. You -[3374.74 --> 3380.40] don't have to go to a mountain or to the side of the mountain on the Sea of Galilee to hear him preach -[3380.40 --> 3386.62] because Jesus is preached wherever faithful ministers proclaim him and faithful Christians share his love. -[3386.62 --> 3394.24] Now you don't have to squeeze tightly to hold on to him instead. Instead, you just invite him near. -[3395.88 --> 3403.12] The ascension isn't a loss of intimacy. The ascension is an infinite magnification of the -[3403.12 --> 3412.32] available intimacy that we can have with Jesus. And so what does this mean for our worship -[3412.32 --> 3419.42] and for our mission? Now, admittedly, and of course, this changes everything, and there's so many things -[3419.42 --> 3424.82] that we could talk about here, but I want to just point to three for us this morning. -[3426.58 --> 3435.50] First, the nearness of Jesus available to us because of the ascension changes our worship -[3435.50 --> 3444.72] together because it places the proper object of our worship in our own hearts. Now, I get that can be -[3444.72 --> 3455.46] confusing, so let me explain what I mean. Worship is an act of ascribing worth to something, right? In old -[3455.46 --> 3463.66] English, worship used to be worth-ship. You would acknowledge the supreme worth of something. It's the -[3463.66 --> 3470.16] act of holding something or someone up and saying, this is amazing. This is worthy of praise. This is -[3470.16 --> 3478.26] worthy of notice. This is the worth of this thing gives me purpose and meaning and direction and joy. -[3478.26 --> 3486.68] In this thing or person, I will place my hope and my treasure and my heart. Because you see, our hearts -[3486.68 --> 3495.50] are made to worship. Our hearts will always worship something or someone. It may not always be the -[3495.50 --> 3501.48] right thing. In fact, it's not always the right thing, but our hearts are always worshiping. -[3502.60 --> 3509.76] John Calvin, a theologian from the 15th and 16th century that is closely connected to our church -[3509.76 --> 3518.04] tradition. He describes the heart as an idol factory, right? Constantly producing idol after idol after idol -[3518.04 --> 3527.68] because we can't help but love something or someone. And so, some of us might say that we worship -[3527.68 --> 3537.70] Jesus, but our lives tell a different story, right? In fact, some of us worship work or wealth or status. -[3537.70 --> 3544.72] We worship success or family or having the right spouse or the right house or the right career. -[3545.56 --> 3550.84] And all of these things, most of these things, in any ways, are good in some way. They're in and of -[3550.84 --> 3558.62] themselves, they are creations of God that God has said this is good, but they're secondary to the right -[3558.62 --> 3566.48] object of our worship. But our worshiping hearts are broken and disordered and we never put the right -[3566.48 --> 3574.02] object of our worship on the throne of our hearts. But the good news of the ascension -[3574.02 --> 3582.32] is that we don't have to because God does, right? Jesus going up and sending down his spirit, Jesus -[3582.32 --> 3589.68] invading our wayward hearts and setting us on the right direction, the Holy Spirit in the old language -[3589.68 --> 3595.82] quickening our dead hearts and making us alive, regenerating us, the Holy Spirit taking our heart -[3595.82 --> 3603.56] of stone and changing it into a heart of flesh means that the right object of our worship, Jesus, -[3603.98 --> 3612.20] by a miracle of God's grace, seats himself on the throne of our hearts. The ascension makes true worship -[3612.20 --> 3618.94] possible, right worship possible, because without his intervening grace, we would never worship him -[3618.94 --> 3628.12] properly, we would never worship him well, but because of the ascension, we can. Because Jesus is near us by -[3628.12 --> 3639.06] being in us, he elevates himself to the throne of your heart as the object of your worship. And so what you -[3639.06 --> 3649.06] can't do, he has done for you, it's the ascension of Jesus that makes this possible for your heart to be his -[3649.06 --> 3659.38] throne. And so now, true worship is possible, and we just give ourselves over to it. -[3661.14 --> 3664.32] In Ephesians 2 verse 6, Paul writes, -[3664.32 --> 3679.00] Now, have you ever experienced worship that feels like it's just lifted you up to heaven? -[3680.60 --> 3685.84] I know for some of us in this past year, especially these past months of sitting in our living rooms, -[3686.26 --> 3691.80] you know, the same place that we watch football or hockey or whatever, Wheel of Fortune, -[3691.80 --> 3697.84] as the same place that we also do church, and so it's been hard to feel that sort of worship that -[3697.84 --> 3706.34] lifts us up. It feels like we're seated in heaven, and I get that. But I also get that you have a memory -[3706.34 --> 3714.12] of that, or you have a longing for that, and that's what we're talking about here. Jesus goes up so that -[3714.12 --> 3721.20] the Spirit come down, and then in worship, the Holy Spirit lifts up our hearts so that we can be nearer to -[3721.20 --> 3729.30] Jesus. As we hear from him in his word, as we taste and touch him in the supper, as we see him in the -[3729.30 --> 3736.70] waters of baptism, as we speak with him in our singing and in our praying, because of the ascension -[3736.70 --> 3744.58] of Jesus, our worship is altogether different. Even as he is at the right hand of the Father, he is in you -[3744.58 --> 3752.40] by the Holy Spirit who makes your heart a throne for God and directs our worship rightly to Jesus. -[3754.00 --> 3759.54] And worship that is directed to Jesus, worship that is fueled by the Holy Spirit, has a particular -[3759.54 --> 3767.24] momentum to it. This is the second effect that the ascension has on our worship, and I'm calling it, -[3767.24 --> 3774.92] and I've called this message, Ascension Momentum. In the Gospel of Matthew, before the ascension, before -[3774.92 --> 3780.52] the Great Commission, the disciples go to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go, and when -[3780.52 --> 3788.38] they saw him, they worshiped him. Drawing near to Jesus, and Jesus drawing near to you leads you to -[3788.38 --> 3794.96] worship. The ascension makes, right, worship possible. But then what does Jesus say to his disciples in -[3794.96 --> 3799.34] that moment in Matthew, right, that all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me? -[3799.70 --> 3805.72] Therefore, go, go out into the world and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of -[3805.72 --> 3812.18] the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded -[3812.18 --> 3819.04] you, right? In Acts, we read the same thing, but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you -[3819.04 --> 3824.60] will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in Judea, and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. -[3824.96 --> 3835.18] For the ascension takes Jesus up so that he can come into our hearts, and for us, the ascension then -[3835.18 --> 3844.70] takes us out. Ascension Momentum is out. It's always out, out into the world, out into the world as -[3844.70 --> 3850.26] disciples making disciples, out into our neighborhoods, and our cities, and our homes, and our workplaces, -[3850.26 --> 3855.68] our third places, wherever we find ourselves, baptizing in the name of the Father, and of the Son, -[3856.20 --> 3863.04] and of the Holy Spirit. And so we worship in here, or we worship together as a community, -[3863.04 --> 3876.28] so that we can be used of God out there. Worship here together leads to work in mission out there. -[3876.28 --> 3884.24] Someone has put it, we gather for worship so that we can scatter in mission. A philosophy professor I had -[3884.24 --> 3891.90] in university says, we journey in for the journey out, right? Our worship of Jesus clarifies and convicts -[3891.90 --> 3901.90] us for mission with Jesus. Jesus has gone up, but he is in you by the Holy Spirit, and so go, he goes out -[3901.90 --> 3910.98] with you. You go out with him, and for him. Right worship always requires a missional application. -[3912.26 --> 3915.92] Otherwise, we're just patting ourselves on the back and talking about how good we are. -[3917.44 --> 3921.40] Our calling is to talk about how good Jesus is. -[3921.40 --> 3931.86] And this, too, as much as it is our work, is God's work. As much as we go out, God goes first. Right? -[3931.90 --> 3937.96] The work of converting and saving the lost is God's work by the Holy Spirit through you and through me. -[3939.04 --> 3944.68] Now, you may not have the gift of evangelism, as Paul talks about gifts of the Holy Spirit, -[3944.68 --> 3948.82] but if Jesus is truly your treasure, you will evangelize. -[3950.84 --> 3956.46] Remember a few years ago, friends of mine bought a new house. It was the first house that they bought, -[3956.60 --> 3960.38] and when the deal went through, when the offer was accepted, do you know what they did? -[3961.24 --> 3966.18] They came over to our house, and they showed it off. They brought the listing and all the pictures -[3966.18 --> 3971.14] that they had taken, and they talked about the designs and the plans that they had to transform -[3971.14 --> 3976.88] this house and to make it into their home. They shared their joy with us, and they beamed with wonder, -[3977.04 --> 3979.76] and they could barely contain it. They were so excited. -[3981.10 --> 3983.12] That's how it should be with Jesus in our worship. -[3984.74 --> 3987.56] I have another friend who collects watches. -[3988.82 --> 3991.36] He loves them. Absolutely loves them. -[3991.56 --> 3997.32] He learns all about them. He learns about their history, about the manufacturing process that goes into making them, -[3997.32 --> 4000.58] about the specific uniqueness of each watch in his collection, -[4000.58 --> 4003.98] and then he evangelizes all of us about them, right? -[4004.00 --> 4006.32] He tries to make us watch enthusiasts. -[4006.70 --> 4009.42] He tries to convert us to his hobby. -[4009.54 --> 4010.44] He once even said to me, -[4010.52 --> 4013.68] I will give you this watch if you start a hobby collection with it. -[4015.40 --> 4016.68] Or sports fans. -[4017.62 --> 4020.26] And man, sports fans are great examples of this, right? -[4020.30 --> 4023.74] Because the same person who will tell me that they can't read a book, -[4023.74 --> 4027.38] or they can't take a pastor's class on apologetics because they don't learn so good, -[4027.38 --> 4033.58] will then turn around and rattle off an entire spring training lineup for the Blue Jays this year, -[4033.64 --> 4039.62] and they'll do a statistical comparison to the 92 lineup in the World Series champion team, -[4039.84 --> 4043.80] and then they'll make an argument for why this team, this year's team, -[4043.80 --> 4046.44] is even better and has a real chance at winning the whole show. -[4046.44 --> 4049.38] You see the point, right? -[4049.44 --> 4051.74] That you talk about what you love. -[4052.72 --> 4057.74] You invest time and energy and passion into what you love. -[4060.22 --> 4063.10] What we're seeing here in the ascension -[4063.10 --> 4069.44] is that Jesus is a treasure far greater than anything else in all of the universe. -[4069.44 --> 4070.84] And so share that. -[4071.16 --> 4071.68] Tell that. -[4072.06 --> 4073.54] Celebrate your knowing him. -[4073.90 --> 4077.28] Celebrate your having him by going with him to others. -[4078.74 --> 4082.50] And I know that sometimes we are afraid, -[4082.98 --> 4084.22] and sometimes we worry. -[4084.60 --> 4086.20] What if I don't say the right words? -[4086.30 --> 4087.96] Or what if I don't say the right thing? -[4088.26 --> 4090.76] But you are not alone. -[4091.22 --> 4093.24] Jesus is with you and in you, -[4093.36 --> 4095.26] empowering you with the Holy Spirit. -[4095.26 --> 4098.02] And even more, when you love something, -[4098.28 --> 4100.68] even if you don't know everything about it, -[4100.80 --> 4102.34] you still talk about it. -[4102.62 --> 4105.18] You just can't help but talk about it. -[4106.62 --> 4108.26] We've got to, -[4109.28 --> 4110.38] and make no mistake, -[4110.48 --> 4113.20] I'm preaching to myself right now just as much as to anyone else, -[4114.00 --> 4119.80] we've got to stop letting our fear overwhelm our love for Jesus. -[4120.92 --> 4123.76] We've got to stop sitting comfortably in the boat -[4123.76 --> 4125.32] when Jesus is out on the waters. -[4126.52 --> 4128.70] We've got to start believing that when he says, -[4128.94 --> 4131.48] I will never leave you nor forsake you, -[4131.66 --> 4134.80] that when he says that he is with us to the end of the age, -[4134.92 --> 4136.48] that he actually is. -[4138.66 --> 4141.50] And that he's really able to do immeasurably more -[4141.50 --> 4143.80] than all we can ask or imagine. -[4143.80 --> 4147.04] And imagine for just a minute -[4147.04 --> 4150.10] what the church would be like, -[4150.60 --> 4155.74] what our community of disciples would be like -[4155.74 --> 4158.66] if we could believe that -[4158.66 --> 4160.96] even 50% of the time. -[4162.42 --> 4165.36] Imagine how that would change your life -[4165.36 --> 4167.38] and our lives together. -[4167.38 --> 4170.34] Finally, -[4171.34 --> 4174.84] the ascension fuels our worship and mission -[4174.84 --> 4176.98] because in it and by it, -[4177.18 --> 4179.08] we have hope. -[4180.08 --> 4182.00] Hope that our worship -[4182.00 --> 4184.10] won't always be incomplete -[4184.10 --> 4186.36] and half-hearted and half-measures. -[4186.76 --> 4188.34] Hope that the mission of God -[4188.34 --> 4190.80] does in fact have an end. -[4190.80 --> 4191.44] And -[4191.44 --> 4195.88] verse 11 of -[4195.88 --> 4198.08] our text, -[4198.76 --> 4199.92] men of Galilee, -[4200.02 --> 4200.30] they said, -[4200.42 --> 4202.12] why do you stand here looking into the sky? -[4202.54 --> 4204.82] The same Jesus who has been taken from you -[4204.82 --> 4205.52] into heaven -[4205.52 --> 4207.18] will come back -[4207.18 --> 4208.48] in the same way -[4208.48 --> 4211.16] you have seen him go. -[4213.68 --> 4216.64] Remember at the very beginning of this message, -[4216.92 --> 4217.34] I said, -[4217.72 --> 4219.12] what draws us closer -[4219.12 --> 4221.12] isn't being apart, -[4221.78 --> 4222.72] it's the coming home. -[4224.38 --> 4226.12] The ascension means -[4226.12 --> 4227.60] that Jesus is now -[4227.60 --> 4229.12] in heaven glorified -[4229.66 --> 4231.60] and that the spirit of God -[4231.60 --> 4232.84] is at work in you, -[4233.02 --> 4233.86] transforming you -[4233.86 --> 4235.34] from one degree of glory -[4235.34 --> 4236.28] into another. -[4236.48 --> 4237.62] But one day, -[4238.00 --> 4239.92] that glory will be here, -[4240.14 --> 4241.00] right here, -[4241.08 --> 4241.98] on this earth, -[4242.30 --> 4242.86] made new. -[4243.06 --> 4245.00] And that is a vision of hope -[4245.00 --> 4245.98] that overcomes -[4245.98 --> 4246.96] whatever trials -[4246.96 --> 4247.72] or fears -[4247.72 --> 4248.60] or hardships -[4248.60 --> 4249.78] we might have -[4249.78 --> 4250.38] right now. -[4253.56 --> 4254.48] Then I saw -[4254.48 --> 4255.08] a new heaven -[4255.08 --> 4256.88] and a new earth. -[4257.54 --> 4258.82] For the first heaven -[4258.82 --> 4260.10] and the first earth -[4260.10 --> 4261.14] had passed away -[4261.14 --> 4262.62] and there was no longer -[4262.62 --> 4263.40] any sea. -[4264.36 --> 4265.80] I saw the holy city, -[4265.92 --> 4266.70] the new Jerusalem, -[4266.92 --> 4267.66] coming down -[4267.66 --> 4268.96] out of heaven from God, -[4269.06 --> 4270.28] prepared as a bride, -[4270.46 --> 4271.48] beautifully dressed -[4271.48 --> 4272.54] for her husband. -[4272.54 --> 4275.14] And I heard a loud voice -[4275.14 --> 4276.42] from the throne saying, -[4276.58 --> 4276.76] look, -[4277.16 --> 4278.26] God's dwelling place -[4278.26 --> 4279.58] is now among the people -[4279.58 --> 4280.90] and he will be with them. -[4281.26 --> 4282.46] They will be his people -[4282.46 --> 4283.36] and God himself -[4283.36 --> 4284.24] will be with them -[4284.24 --> 4285.20] and be their God. -[4285.30 --> 4286.50] He will wipe away -[4286.50 --> 4287.78] every tear -[4287.78 --> 4288.78] from their eyes. -[4288.88 --> 4290.06] There will be no more death -[4290.06 --> 4291.04] or mourning -[4291.04 --> 4291.74] or crying -[4291.74 --> 4292.28] or pain -[4292.28 --> 4293.70] for the old order -[4293.70 --> 4294.26] of things -[4294.26 --> 4295.64] has passed away. -[4296.40 --> 4297.76] He who is seated -[4297.76 --> 4298.68] on the throne -[4298.68 --> 4299.14] said, -[4299.14 --> 4300.58] I am making -[4300.58 --> 4302.74] everything new. -[4304.06 --> 4304.64] Then he said, -[4304.74 --> 4305.76] write this down -[4305.76 --> 4307.08] for these words -[4307.08 --> 4308.06] are trustworthy -[4308.06 --> 4310.06] and true. -[4311.70 --> 4313.48] The gospel of Jesus' ascension -[4313.48 --> 4314.14] is that he lives -[4314.14 --> 4315.00] in your heart. -[4315.34 --> 4316.96] He fuels our worship. -[4317.16 --> 4318.04] He sends us out -[4318.04 --> 4318.74] in mission -[4318.74 --> 4319.44] and the gospel -[4319.44 --> 4320.62] of Jesus' ascension -[4320.62 --> 4323.00] is that he will come back -[4323.00 --> 4323.96] in the same way -[4323.96 --> 4325.00] that we saw him go -[4325.00 --> 4328.28] and make all things new. -[4329.14 --> 4330.86] And until that day, -[4331.58 --> 4333.04] I press forward -[4333.04 --> 4334.10] in worship. -[4335.10 --> 4335.76] Until that day, -[4335.84 --> 4336.64] I press forward -[4336.64 --> 4337.56] in mission -[4337.56 --> 4338.62] with Jesus -[4338.62 --> 4340.30] and for Jesus -[4340.30 --> 4341.82] because he is king -[4341.82 --> 4343.34] over all the universe. -[4343.68 --> 4344.54] He has promised -[4344.54 --> 4345.68] to never leave me -[4345.68 --> 4346.94] nor forsake me -[4346.94 --> 4348.84] and I believe him. -[4350.62 --> 4351.70] Believe him. -[4353.10 --> 4354.18] Love him. -[4354.18 --> 4356.64] and do not -[4356.64 --> 4359.44] be afraid. -[4360.54 --> 4361.12] Amen. -[4364.62 --> 4365.46] Lord Jesus, -[4366.34 --> 4368.54] in your presence -[4368.54 --> 4370.18] we stand -[4370.18 --> 4371.60] because your presence -[4371.60 --> 4372.78] is here -[4372.78 --> 4374.06] by your spirit. -[4374.18 --> 4374.64] Your presence -[4374.64 --> 4376.24] is in each -[4376.24 --> 4377.36] of our hearts -[4377.36 --> 4378.08] by grace -[4378.08 --> 4379.06] through faith -[4379.06 --> 4380.32] in your Holy Spirit. -[4380.68 --> 4382.18] You are here. -[4382.18 --> 4382.84] here. -[4384.22 --> 4385.48] Wherever we are. -[4387.98 --> 4388.80] For God, -[4388.88 --> 4389.46] your bride -[4389.46 --> 4390.50] is not contained -[4390.50 --> 4391.52] by a building -[4391.52 --> 4393.90] but your bride -[4393.90 --> 4394.64] is defined -[4394.64 --> 4396.08] by a mission. -[4398.68 --> 4399.00] And so, -[4399.14 --> 4399.50] Lord God, -[4399.62 --> 4399.92] we, -[4400.30 --> 4401.52] your church, -[4401.76 --> 4403.02] longing for that day -[4403.02 --> 4404.28] when you will make -[4404.28 --> 4405.28] all things new, -[4405.70 --> 4405.90] we, -[4406.10 --> 4406.64] your church, -[4406.70 --> 4408.24] go from this place -[4408.24 --> 4409.18] with the momentum -[4409.18 --> 4410.84] of the ascension -[4410.84 --> 4411.80] to proclaim -[4411.80 --> 4412.96] your kingdom come -[4412.96 --> 4414.26] and your kingdom coming, -[4414.48 --> 4415.70] we go forth together -[4415.70 --> 4417.30] as a body of believers -[4417.30 --> 4418.48] that you -[4418.48 --> 4420.14] might be made -[4420.14 --> 4420.94] real -[4420.94 --> 4422.18] in the lives -[4422.18 --> 4423.22] of all those -[4423.22 --> 4424.16] whom we -[4424.16 --> 4424.98] meet. -[4427.22 --> 4428.10] And so, -[4428.18 --> 4429.02] take our fears -[4429.02 --> 4429.90] and replace it -[4429.90 --> 4431.04] with your perfect love. -[4432.58 --> 4433.86] Take our worry -[4433.86 --> 4435.90] and open our eyes -[4435.90 --> 4436.56] and our hearts -[4436.56 --> 4437.28] to trust -[4437.28 --> 4438.62] in your perfect plan -[4438.62 --> 4442.94] and send us out -[4442.94 --> 4443.84] in the power -[4443.84 --> 4445.66] of your name -[4445.66 --> 4448.20] that we might -[4448.20 --> 4448.94] proclaim you, -[4449.16 --> 4449.62] Lord Jesus, -[4450.44 --> 4451.24] to the world, -[4452.18 --> 4453.28] the one whom we love -[4453.28 --> 4454.70] and the one -[4454.70 --> 4455.48] who loves -[4455.48 --> 4456.50] us. -[4457.32 --> 4458.28] In your name -[4458.28 --> 4458.78] we pray, -[4458.94 --> 4459.16] Jesus. -[4460.42 --> 4460.82] Amen. -[4460.82 --> 4460.94] Amen. -[4467.28 --> 4491.98] to the desperate eyes -[4491.98 --> 4499.60] and reaching hands to the suffering and the lame, -[4500.70 --> 4506.26] to the ones the world has cast aside. -[4506.26 --> 4512.02] Where you want me, I will be. -[4512.56 --> 4519.56] I will go, I will go, I will go, Lord, send me to the world, -[4519.56 --> 4524.00] to the lost, to the poor and concrete. -[4524.32 --> 4529.82] Take everything I am, I play within your hands. -[4529.82 --> 4534.66] I will go, I will go, send me. -[4540.74 --> 4546.82] Let me not be blind with privilege. -[4546.82 --> 4551.82] Give me eyes to see the pain. -[4552.98 --> 4557.82] Let the blessing you poured out on me. -[4558.72 --> 4562.82] Not be spent on me in vain. -[4564.58 --> 4568.82] Let my life be used or changed. -[4568.82 --> 4576.82] I will go, I will go, I will go, Lord, send me to the world, -[4577.86 --> 4581.82] to the lost, to the poor and concrete. -[4581.82 --> 4586.82] Take everything I am, I play within your hands. -[4586.82 --> 4591.82] I will go, I will go, send me. -[4593.98 --> 4597.08] I want to live for you. -[4597.08 --> 4599.82] Go where you need me. -[4599.82 --> 4603.18] I want to follow you. -[4603.32 --> 4607.16] I want to live for you. -[4607.38 --> 4609.52] I want to live for you. -[4609.76 --> 4611.72] Go where you need me. -[4611.82 --> 4614.98] I want to follow you. -[4615.78 --> 4620.66] Oh, I want to live for you. -[4620.66 --> 4627.42] Go where you need me, I want to follow you. -[4629.16 --> 4639.66] I will go, I will go, I will go, Lord, send me to the world, to the lost, to the poor and hungry. -[4639.66 --> 4645.92] Take everything I am, I will play within your hands. -[4646.28 --> 4649.74] I will go, I will go, send me. -[4650.66 --> 4655.10] I will go, I will go, send me. -[4657.16 --> 4660.88] I will go, I will go, send me. -[4674.28 --> 4677.24] I will go, send me. -[4677.24 --> 4687.58] As you go, know that you do not go alone, but the power of God, the love of Jesus goes in you and with you by the Holy Spirit. -[4688.24 --> 4691.18] And so receive God's blessing. -[4693.12 --> 4695.62] May God go before you to lead you. -[4695.62 --> 4698.32] May God go behind you to guard you. -[4698.44 --> 4700.70] May God go beneath you to support you. -[4700.90 --> 4703.90] And may God go beside you to befriend you. -[4704.78 --> 4707.14] Do not be afraid. -[4707.90 --> 4710.10] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[4710.52 --> 4712.48] Do not be afraid. -[4713.76 --> 4718.66] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[4718.66 --> 4720.16] Amen. -[4720.16 --> 4720.22] Amen. -[4724.76 --> 4740.52] He is exalted. -[4740.52 --> 4744.34] The King is exalted on high -[4744.34 --> 4747.34] I will praise Him -[4747.34 --> 4749.02] He is exalted -[4749.02 --> 4751.12] Forever exalted -[4751.12 --> 4759.04] And I will praise His name -[4759.04 --> 4763.42] He is the Lord -[4763.42 --> 4767.98] Forever His truth shall reign -[4767.98 --> 4772.06] Heaven and earth -[4772.06 --> 4776.74] Rejoice in His holy name -[4776.74 --> 4778.76] He is exalted -[4778.76 --> 4782.64] The King is exalted on high -[4782.64 --> 4787.44] He is exalted -[4787.44 --> 4791.30] The King is exalted on high -[4791.30 --> 4794.36] I will praise Him -[4794.36 --> 4796.14] He is exalted -[4796.14 --> 4798.44] Forever exalted -[4798.44 --> 4806.26] And I will praise His name -[4806.26 --> 4810.74] He is the Lord -[4810.74 --> 4815.04] Forever His truth shall reign -[4815.04 --> 4819.12] Heaven and earth -[4819.12 --> 4823.96] Rejoice in His holy name -[4823.96 --> 4825.82] He is exalted -[4825.82 --> 4829.82] The King is exalted on high -[4829.82 --> 4833.90] He is exalted -[4833.90 --> 4834.78] He is exalted -[4834.78 --> 4837.34] The King is exalted -[4837.34 --> 4838.98] On high -[4838.98 --> 4847.06] I believe in the Son -[4847.06 --> 4847.12] I believe in the Son -[4847.12 --> 4852.80] I believe in the risen one -[4852.80 --> 4860.02] I believe in the Son -[4860.02 --> 4866.88] I believe in the risen one -[4866.88 --> 4871.30] I believe I overcome -[4871.30 --> 4878.08] By the power of His blood -[4878.08 --> 4880.72] Amen -[4880.72 --> 4882.08] Amen -[4882.08 --> 4884.08] Amen -[4884.08 --> 4886.92] I'm alive -[4886.92 --> 4888.14] I'm alive -[4888.14 --> 4890.34] Because He lives -[4890.34 --> 4892.14] Amen -[4892.14 --> 4895.32] Amen -[4895.32 --> 4899.64] Let my song join the world -[4899.64 --> 4901.94] That never ends -[4901.94 --> 4905.54] Because He lives -[4905.54 --> 4917.32] I was dead in the grave -[4917.32 --> 4923.32] I was covered in sin and shame -[4923.32 --> 4929.38] I heard mercy call my name -[4929.38 --> 4936.46] He rolled the sun away -[4936.46 --> 4938.10] Amen -[4938.10 --> 4941.10] Amen -[4941.10 --> 4944.04] I'm alive -[4944.04 --> 4945.32] I'm alive -[4945.32 --> 4947.68] Because He lives -[4947.68 --> 4949.32] Amen -[4949.32 --> 4951.32] Amen -[4951.32 --> 4952.32] Amen -[4952.32 --> 4953.32] Amen -[4953.32 --> 4956.80] Let my song join the world -[4956.80 --> 4958.32] That never ends -[4959.04 --> 4961.50] Because He lives -[4961.50 --> 4963.88] I can face tomorrow -[4963.88 --> 4966.32] Because He lives -[4967.16 --> 4970.78] Every fear is cold -[4970.78 --> 4974.14] I know He holds -[4974.14 --> 4976.86] My life, my future -[4976.86 --> 4978.86] He lives -[4978.86 --> 4979.86] Amen -[4979.86 --> 4980.86] Amen -[4980.86 --> 4981.86] Amen -[4981.86 --> 4982.86] Amen -[4982.86 --> 4983.86] Amen -[4983.86 --> 4984.86] Amen -[4984.86 --> 4988.86] I'm alive -[4988.86 --> 4989.86] I'm alive -[4989.86 --> 4991.00] I'm alive -[4991.00 --> 4991.86] Because He lives -[4991.86 --> 4992.86] Amen -[4992.86 --> 4993.86] Amen -[4993.86 --> 4994.86] Amen -[4994.86 --> 4995.86] Amen -[4995.86 --> 4997.86] Let my song join the world -[4997.86 --> 4999.86] That never ends -[4999.86 --> 5001.86] Amen -[5001.86 --> 5002.86] Amen -[5002.86 --> 5003.86] Amen -[5003.86 --> 5006.86] Amen -[5006.86 --> 5007.86] Amen -[5007.86 --> 5008.94] Amen -[5009.72 --> 5011.86] Amen -[5011.86 --> 5012.52] Amen -[5012.52 --> 5012.86] Amen -[5012.86 --> 5013.12] Amen -[5013.72 --> 5026.04] Amen -[5026.10 --> 5027.10] Amen -[5027.10 --> 5027.86] Amen -[5027.86 --> 5028.88] Amen -[5028.88 --> 5030.10] Amen -[5030.10 --> 5030.52] Amen -[5030.52 --> 5036.26] Because he lives diff --git "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 December 10, 2023 (2nd week of Advent 2023)_summary.txt" "b/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 December 10, 2023 (2nd week of Advent 2023)_summary.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 880b7a86c9ea056c11e5ddfd887e032bd5ab7cd5..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 December 10, 2023 (2nd week of Advent 2023)_summary.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,129 +0,0 @@ -• The concept of hope in biblical context -• Definitions of Hebrew words yachal (to wait) and kavah (tension and expectation) -• Biblical hope as waiting or expecting something, specifically God -• Difference between optimism and biblical hope -• Importance of God's past faithfulness in motivating hope -• Looking back to God's character is key to trusting in a future -• The early followers of Jesus believed his life, death, and resurrection was God's response to humanity's slavery to evil and death -• Christian hope is based on the risen Jesus who has overcome death -• Biblical hope isn't optimism but a choice to wait for God's surprising actions -• Hope looks back to the risen Jesus to look forward to a future of liberation from evil and death -• The Christmas season is about light shining in darkness, revealing how bad things are -• Jesus is our only true hope and lighthouse in the storm -• Prayers for hope and comfort in Jesus -• Acknowledgment of darkness and lack of trust in God's light -• Asking Holy Spirit to open eyes to hope in Jesus -• Declaration of faith in Jesus as savior and source of hope -• Reflection on Christ's sacrifice, resurrection, and power -• Affirmation of being secure in Christ's love and salvation -• The speaker leads worship with repeated singing of a hymn, including "The Lamb upon the throne" and "I gladly bow my knee" -• Deacon Clim introduces himself and explains the church's ministry and missions offering -• Matthew 6:1-4 is read, discussing the importance of secret giving and rewards from God -• Gift cards are passed around for those in need -• The congregation sings Christmas carols, including "Gloria in Excelsis Deo" -• A children's worship leader asks preschoolers to come forward and discusses waiting for things like Christmas and birthdays -• Opening prayer and introduction -• Financial updates and budget goals -• Upcoming events: Mexico mission trip, HCBC for youth -• Announcements: new baby in the Skipper family, Connect booth for details on signing up for events -• Prayer requests for congregation members: health, family, healing, and comfort -• Global prayer requests: war, violence, and suffering families -• The speaker prays for the audience to be filled with the gospel. -• A passage from Isaiah 8 is read aloud. -• The text in Isaiah 8 emphasizes not following the way of others and fearing God alone. -• The speaker reflects on the concept of hope, using an analogy about Shohei Otani's potential signing with a baseball team. -• The contrast between cultural views of hope and biblical perspectives on hope is highlighted. -• The concept of biblical hope being different from cultural ideas -• Hope is not based on circumstances but on God's promise of a certain future -• Biblical hope includes two aspects: trust and waiting -• Trust in God's promises, knowing He has promised a particular future -• Waiting for a fixed and defined future that can be told about and anticipated -• God's purpose in creation and redemption -• The revelation of God's Word through Jesus Christ -• Christmas as an example of God's plan for humanity -• The concept of timing in God's plans, with emphasis on "at just the right time" -• God's promises and their reliability -• The nature of Biblical hope: trust and waiting for a fixed future -• The speaker defines hope as a sense of longing for something else -• Hope can be ambiguous or unclear, but is often defined as unsure optimism -• Optimism is about choosing to see how a situation could work out for the best -• Reframing is a healthy practice that involves choosing to see things in a different light -• Making new meaning after an experience or situation is a process of redefining what it means to us -• This can involve talking to others, forgiving others and ourselves, and reframing our perception of events -• Discussion on the concept of "growth mindset" in education -• Use of reframing statements to promote a growth mindset (e.g. "you're learning how to do this") -• Mention of Carol Dweck and her research on growth mindset -• Importance of hope and active definition/understanding of current cultural understandings -• Questions about the origin and justification of hope -• The need for a bigger idea than the current world to justify change -• Nietzsche on hope being the worst of evils because it prolongs human suffering -• John Keeks' concept of "modest hope" based on controlling one's life and increasing autonomy -• Limitations of modest hope in situations where control is not possible -• The need for a different kind of hope that can change the world and bring cultural productivity -• Comparison with biblical and Isaiah's conception of hope as something more profound and transformative -• Old Testament Hebrew words used to describe hope, including yachal -• Job's story and his statement of hope despite suffering -• The concept of hope in the Bible, particularly from Psalm 42 and other passages -• Distinguishing between false and true hope (waiting vs trusting God's purpose) -• Different Hebrew words for hope: yachal, kavah, and tikvah -• The meaning of hope as waiting with anticipation and searching out the Lord -• Examples of tikvah in scripture, including Jeremiah 29:11 -• The concept of hope in the context of waiting and trusting God's promises -• Definition of hope as anticipating and looking forward to something not yet seen or possessed -• Paul's writings on hope in the New Testament, including its connection to salvation and faithfulness -• The Greek word "elpis" for hope and its use by Paul and other authors in the New Testament -• The role of hope in the Christian life, including holding onto it unswervingly despite challenges or hardships -• The importance of holding unswervingly to the hope one professes -• Hope requires discipline, a force of mind and spirit, and willpower -• Overcoming contrary evidence and opposing forces that seek to slay hope -• Profession of faith requires stating belief and preaching to oneself -• Power of Christian hope comes from confidence in God's faithfulness -• The concept of hope is based on the person of God who has promised a certain future -• Christian hope looks back to the risen Jesus and forward in the present moment -• Hope is what separates darkness from light, and people will see it as a little bit of light that pierces through -• Hope can be hard to find in difficult times, but it is an act of God where he meets us at the table and sends us out in the power of hope -• Celebrating what God has done, coming to the table as those longing for hope, recognizing our need for it, and being filled by God. -• Inviting participants to speak the words of a liturgy -• Giving thanks to God and acknowledging His creation and providence -• Praise and worship of God, including thanking Him for making heaven and earth, and keeping covenant with humanity -• Thanksgiving for Jesus Christ's life, death, and resurrection -• Prayer in the name of Jesus, asking for hope and salvation through His sacrifice -• Remembrance of the Last Supper and institution of the Eucharist -• The Eucharist is the body of Christ -• Faith in Christ's death and resurrection is proclaimed -• Hope for Christ's coming again is affirmed with joy -• Invitation to receive salvation through faith and trust in Christ -• Invitation to the Lord's table for those who love and trust Him -• Table setting and gathering in groups -• Elders/ushers directing participants when to come up to the table -• Passing of bread and juice, with associated invocations -• Invitation to say "the body of Christ given for you" -• Passing of juice, with associated invocation -• Invitation to say "the blood of Christ shed for you" -• Helping the elders and worship team during services -• Location of prayer team in foyer for meetings -• Option to receive supper at front or from an elder nearby -• Invitation to serving teams to come forward -• Reference to body of Christ given for spiritual nourishment -• References to Jesus' return and second coming -• Metaphors of a bride waiting for her groom (church as a church ready for Christ) -• Longing for Christ's return and King -• Themes of hope, salvation, and freedom from death and sin -• Descriptions of Christ's sacrifice and resurrection -• Broken chains -• Salvation in Jesus' name -• Jesus Christ as living home -• Help from God in times of trouble -• God's love as anchor and hope -• Dependence on God -• Prayer and worship -• God's blessing and guidance for the journey ahead -• Praise to God and Jesus Christ -• Joyful singing and praising -• Reminders of heaven and nature's glory -• The earth being ruled by a savior -• Repetition of joyful songs and praise -• Sin and sorrow being overcome -• Thoughts being guided towards blessings and truth -• God's rule through love, truth, and grace -• Wonders of God's righteousness and love \ No newline at end of file diff --git "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 December 10, 2023 (2nd week of Advent 2023)_transcript.txt" "b/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 December 10, 2023 (2nd week of Advent 2023)_transcript.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 5b5620c4293b2c4318be8f965233667ef505f0fc..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 December 10, 2023 (2nd week of Advent 2023)_transcript.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2371 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 5.18] Breaking in a stable for a throne. -[6.64 --> 12.26] If I were a wise man, I would travel far. -[13.18 --> 19.06] If I were a shepherd, I would do my part. -[19.28 --> 25.40] Poor as I am, I would give to him my heart. -[25.40 --> 32.12] And he shall reign forevermore, forevermore. -[32.60 --> 38.84] And he shall reign forevermore, forevermore. -[39.80 --> 42.90] Unto us, trial is born. -[43.20 --> 46.28] The King of kings, the Lord of lords. -[46.56 --> 52.18] And he shall reign forevermore, forevermore. -[52.18 --> 56.42] Here within the manger lies. -[56.72 --> 59.74] The one who built the starry skies. -[60.06 --> 62.92] This baby born for sacrifice. -[63.70 --> 65.70] Christ our Messiah. -[66.70 --> 69.82] To our hopes and to our fears. -[70.08 --> 73.14] The Savior of the world appears. -[73.38 --> 76.58] The promise of eternal years. -[76.98 --> 79.18] Christ our Messiah. -[79.18 --> 88.68] The King of kings, the." -[89.36 --> 90.74] The King of kings, the Israel of kings. -[91.14 --> 93.56] Praise the Lord of kings, the Israel of kings. -[93.70 --> 99.08] And He shall reign forevermore, forevermore. -[99.08 --> 105.90] And he shall reign forevermore, forevermore -[105.90 --> 109.48] A child is born to us, a child is born -[109.48 --> 112.60] The King of kings and the Lord -[112.60 --> 119.36] And he shall reign forevermore, forevermore -[119.36 --> 122.08] And he shall reign -[122.08 --> 129.08] He shall reign -[129.08 --> 134.98] He shall reign forevermore -[152.08 --> 182.06] And he shall reign forever -[182.08 --> 212.06] And he shall reign forever -[212.08 --> 242.06] And he shall reign forever -[242.08 --> 272.06] And he shall reign forever -[272.08 --> 302.06] Thank you. -[302.08 --> 332.06] Thank you. -[332.08 --> 362.06] Thank you. -[362.08 --> 392.06] Thank you. -[392.08 --> 422.06] Thank you. -[422.06 --> 424.06] Thank you. -[452.06 --> 454.06] Thank you. -[482.06 --> 484.06] Thank you. -[512.06 --> 514.06] Thank you. -[542.06 --> 544.06] Thank you. -[572.06 --> 574.06] Thank you. -[602.06 --> 604.06] Thank you. -[632.06 --> 634.06] Thank you. -[662.06 --> 664.06] Thank you. -[692.06 --> 694.06] Thank you. -[694.06 --> 696.06] Thank you. -[696.06 --> 698.06] Thank you. -[698.06 --> 704.62] Glory in the highest -[704.62 --> 709.42] Glory to you -[709.42 --> 715.52] Glory to you, O God -[728.06 --> 758.04] Glory to you, O God -[758.06 --> 788.04] Glory to you, O God -[788.06 --> 798.06] I don't have Christ the Lord -[798.06 --> 807.72] So let's say you want to describe the feeling of anticipating a future that's better than the present. -[807.72 --> 814.04] You might be giddy or excited or maybe unsure, but most of us know that experience. We call it hope. -[814.34 --> 818.14] It's a state of anticipation and it's crucial for healthy human existence. -[818.58 --> 821.18] And it's a really important concept in the Bible. -[821.54 --> 826.46] In fact, there are many words for hope in the ancient languages of the Bible and they're all fascinating. -[826.46 --> 830.52] In the Old Testament, there are two main Hebrew words translated as hope. -[830.80 --> 833.94] The first is yachal, which means simply to wait for. -[834.40 --> 839.76] Like in the story of Noah and the Ark, as the floodwaters recede, Noah had to yachal for weeks. -[840.00 --> 843.06] The other Hebrew word is kavah, which also means to wait. -[843.26 --> 846.30] It's related to the Hebrew word kav, which means cord. -[846.30 --> 851.32] When you pull a kav tight, you produce a state of tension until there's release. -[851.64 --> 856.40] That's kavah, the feeling of tension and expectation while you wait for something to happen. -[856.84 --> 862.02] The prophet Isaiah depicts God as a farmer who plants vines and kavahs for good grapes. -[862.32 --> 868.78] Or the prophet Micah talks about farmers who both kavah and yachal for morning dew to give moisture to the land. -[868.78 --> 872.56] So in biblical Hebrew, hope is about waiting or expectation. -[873.24 --> 874.44] But waiting for what? -[874.86 --> 878.70] In the period of Israel's prophets, as the nation was sinking into self-destruction, -[878.86 --> 884.66] Isaiah said, at this moment, the Lord's hiding his face from Israel, so I will kavah for him. -[885.10 --> 889.02] The only hope Isaiah had in those dark days was the hope for God himself. -[889.50 --> 894.90] You find this same notion of hope all over the book of Psalms, where these words appear over 40 times. -[894.90 --> 898.48] In almost every case, what people are waiting for is God. -[898.48 --> 902.48] Like in Psalm 130, the poet cries out from a pit of despair, -[902.76 --> 909.68] I kavah for the Lord, let Israel yachal for the Lord, because he's loyal and will redeem Israel from its sins. -[909.92 --> 913.84] Biblical hope is based on a person, which makes it different from optimism. -[914.22 --> 919.76] Optimism is about choosing to see, in any situation, how circumstances could work out for the best. -[919.92 --> 922.26] But biblical hope is not focused on circumstances. -[922.26 --> 927.18] In fact, hopeful people in the Bible often recognize there's no evidence things will get better. -[927.18 --> 929.18] But you choose hope anyway. -[929.18 --> 930.54] Like the prophet Hosea. -[930.54 --> 935.06] He lived in a dark time when Israel was being oppressed by foreign empires. -[935.06 --> 941.18] And he chose hope when he said God could turn this valley of trouble into a door of hope. -[941.18 --> 944.10] Like the day when Israel came up from the land of Egypt. -[944.46 --> 950.18] God had surprised his people with redemption back in the days of the Exodus, and he could do so again. -[950.18 --> 954.10] So it's God's past faithfulness that motivates hope for the future. -[954.26 --> 958.74] You look forward by looking backward, trusting in nothing other than God's character. -[959.02 --> 961.10] It's like the poet of Psalm 39 who says, -[961.30 --> 963.60] And now, O Lord, what else can I kavah for? -[963.92 --> 965.18] You are my yachal. -[965.40 --> 969.98] In the New Testament, the earliest followers of Jesus cultivated this similar habit of hope. -[969.98 --> 976.82] They believed that Jesus' life, death, and resurrection was God's surprising response to our slavery to evil and death. -[976.82 --> 979.94] The empty tomb opened up a new door of hope. -[980.26 --> 983.14] And they used the Greek word elpis to describe this anticipation. -[983.66 --> 987.60] The apostle Peter said that Jesus' resurrection opened up a living hope. -[987.86 --> 989.08] That people can be reborn. -[989.52 --> 991.36] To become new and different kinds of humans. -[992.16 --> 993.98] More than once, the apostle Paul says, -[994.18 --> 997.64] The good news about Jesus announces the elpis of glory. -[997.64 --> 1003.76] In both cases, this elpis is based on a person, the risen Jesus, who has overcome death. -[1004.16 --> 1005.78] And this hope wasn't just for humans. -[1006.14 --> 1012.26] The apostles believed that what happened to Jesus in the resurrection was a foretaste of what God had planned for the whole universe. -[1012.60 --> 1013.36] In Paul's words, -[1013.56 --> 1021.10] It's a hope that creation itself will be liberated from slavery to corruption into freedom when God's children are glorified. -[1021.62 --> 1023.48] So Christian hope is bold, -[1023.48 --> 1028.16] waiting for humanity and the whole universe to be rescued from evil and death. -[1028.36 --> 1029.90] And some would say it's crazy. -[1030.22 --> 1031.06] And maybe it is. -[1031.18 --> 1034.24] But biblical hope isn't optimism based on the odds. -[1034.38 --> 1040.96] It's a choice to wait for God to bring about a future that's as surprising as a crucified man rising from the dead. -[1041.26 --> 1045.76] Christian hope looks back to the risen Jesus in order to look forward. -[1045.76 --> 1047.58] And so we wait. -[1047.96 --> 1050.76] That's what the biblical words for hope are all about. -[1061.28 --> 1062.48] Good morning. -[1064.00 --> 1073.64] Welcome into worship on this second Sunday of Advent where we are exploring the theme and idea of hope. -[1073.64 --> 1077.26] If you're a guest with us this morning, we are glad that you are here. -[1077.38 --> 1078.08] My name is Chris. -[1078.26 --> 1080.10] I'm one of the pastors here. -[1080.26 --> 1084.46] And it's my privilege with a couple others to lead you in our worship together. -[1085.00 --> 1087.06] Our worship today will come to the table. -[1087.36 --> 1091.46] And so if you are here, you can already begin preparing your hearts for that. -[1091.54 --> 1095.68] If you're online, you can participate with us when we come there as well. -[1096.32 --> 1100.12] Just two really quick announcements before the greeting. -[1100.12 --> 1109.56] In your mailboxes, if you have one of those here or on the Connect table at the back, you will have received an invitation. -[1110.48 --> 1117.50] This invitation is to an event called Oh Holy Night that we are doing next weekend at 4 p.m. -[1117.96 --> 1118.82] And so hear that. -[1119.00 --> 1122.02] Next weekend at 4 p.m., we're going to come together. -[1122.14 --> 1124.28] We're going to sing carols and other Christmas songs. -[1124.28 --> 1127.88] And we're going to have a little children's worship time program and hear stories. -[1128.04 --> 1129.32] And it's going to be a great evening. -[1130.04 --> 1135.48] Following that, there will be a hot chocolate bar and a gingerbread cookie decorating station. -[1135.48 --> 1144.80] And so what we hope is that you will receive this invitation and then pass it forward to a neighbor or a co-worker or a friend or someone, -[1144.96 --> 1151.18] inviting them to join us on December 17 at 4 p.m. for Oh Holy Night. -[1151.34 --> 1155.46] So we can sing into this Christmas season together. -[1156.10 --> 1158.22] As well, the second announcement just beginning. -[1158.22 --> 1166.20] On Christmas Day, December 25th, which is a Monday this year, we will be gathering for worship at 10 a.m. -[1166.20 --> 1168.24] like we have traditionally in the past. -[1168.36 --> 1172.46] But we wanted to remind you that we are doing that again this year. -[1172.64 --> 1174.94] So Christmas Day at 10 a.m. here. -[1175.98 --> 1184.02] I'm going to invite you to stand as we are welcomed into God's presence by receiving His greeting and by His calling us to worship Him. -[1184.50 --> 1186.20] Receive the greeting of God. -[1186.20 --> 1190.06] Grace, mercy, and peace to you. -[1190.28 --> 1196.76] From God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, His Son, and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[1197.76 --> 1198.16] Amen. -[1216.20 --> 1239.04] Today we light the second candle of Advent, the candle of hope. -[1239.04 --> 1247.06] N.T. Wright describes the Christmas season in his intro to his book, For All God's Worth. -[1248.06 --> 1255.68] Christmas is God lighting a candle, and you don't light a candle in a room that's already full of sunlight. -[1256.48 --> 1264.18] You light a candle in a room so murky that the candle, when lit, reveals just how bad things really are. -[1264.18 --> 1272.24] The light shines in the darkness, says St. John, and the darkness has not overcome it. -[1272.86 --> 1273.66] And there it is. -[1274.62 --> 1283.92] Our hope in the person of Jesus, even in this dark and murky world, the darkness has not overcome Him. -[1283.92 --> 1285.92] Jesus has overcome. -[1285.92 --> 1286.50] Jesus has overcome. -[1287.22 --> 1289.40] He is our lighthouse in the storm. -[1290.76 --> 1293.62] Our only true hope. -[1294.38 --> 1295.84] Let's join our voices in worship. -[1295.84 --> 1319.48] O come, O come, Emmanuel, -[1319.48 --> 1326.36] Some captive Israel -[1326.36 --> 1334.12] That mourns in lowly exile near -[1334.12 --> 1341.04] Until the Son of God appears -[1341.04 --> 1348.84] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel -[1348.84 --> 1354.60] Shall come to thee, O Israel -[1354.60 --> 1364.08] O come, O wisdom, from on high -[1364.08 --> 1369.60] Through order and all things vitally -[1369.60 --> 1376.90] To us the path of knowledge shown -[1376.90 --> 1382.66] And teach us in its ways to go -[1382.66 --> 1391.54] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel -[1391.54 --> 1396.66] Shall come to thee, O Israel -[1396.66 --> 1402.42] O come, thou branch of Jesse -[1402.42 --> 1408.18] O come, thou branch of Jesse -[1408.18 --> 1413.94] And rescue them -[1413.94 --> 1419.94] From depths of hell your people save -[1419.94 --> 1425.94] And give them victory o'er the grave -[1425.94 --> 1431.70] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel -[1431.70 --> 1437.46] O come, thou Christ, O Israel -[1437.46 --> 1446.46] O come, thou bright and morning star -[1446.46 --> 1453.46] And bring us comfort from afar -[1453.46 --> 1459.22] Disperse the gloomy cloud of night -[1459.22 --> 1467.22] And death's of shadow's moon to fly -[1467.22 --> 1475.22] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel -[1475.22 --> 1480.98] Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel -[1480.98 --> 1482.74] O Israel -[1482.74 --> 1486.74] O Israel -[1486.74 --> 1496.34] O Israel -[1496.34 --> 1506.38] O Israel -[1506.38 --> 1510.50] Jesus, hope of the nations -[1510.50 --> 1516.50] Jesus, comfort for all who mourn. -[1516.50 --> 1523.50] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth. -[1523.50 --> 1527.50] Jesus, light in the darkness. -[1527.50 --> 1532.50] Jesus, truth in each circumstance. -[1532.50 --> 1538.50] You are the source of heaven's light on earth. -[1538.50 --> 1543.50] In history you lived and died. -[1543.50 --> 1548.50] You broke the chains you rose to life. -[1548.50 --> 1552.50] You are the hope living in us. -[1552.50 --> 1556.50] You are the rock in whom we trust. -[1556.50 --> 1564.50] You are the light shining for all the world to see. -[1564.50 --> 1569.50] You rose from the dead, thunder in fear. -[1569.50 --> 1573.50] Our Prince of Peace drawing us here. -[1573.50 --> 1580.50] Jesus our home living for all who will receive. -[1580.50 --> 1582.50] Lord, we believe. -[1590.50 --> 1594.50] Jesus, hope of the nations. -[1594.50 --> 1599.50] Jesus, comfort for all who mourn. -[1599.50 --> 1606.50] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth. -[1606.50 --> 1610.50] Jesus, light in the darkness. -[1610.50 --> 1615.50] Jesus, truth in each circumstance. -[1615.50 --> 1616.50] Jesus, truth in the darkness. -[1616.50 --> 1621.50] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth. -[1621.50 --> 1625.50] In history you lived and died. -[1625.50 --> 1630.50] You broke the chains you rose to life. -[1630.50 --> 1631.50] You are the light on earth. -[1631.50 --> 1645.50] You are the light shining for all the world to see. -[1645.50 --> 1650.50] You rose from the dead, conquering fear. -[1650.50 --> 1654.50] Our Prince of Peace drawing us near. -[1654.50 --> 1660.50] Jesus our home living for all who will receive. -[1660.50 --> 1664.70] Lord, we believe -[1664.70 --> 1668.78] Lord, we believe -[1668.78 --> 1672.82] Lord, we believe -[1672.82 --> 1682.32] Father, the world is so dark and murky -[1682.32 --> 1684.36] we sometimes lose sight of your light. -[1685.36 --> 1687.78] We give darkness more credit and power than we should, -[1687.92 --> 1690.04] forgetting in whom our hope is found. -[1691.02 --> 1694.52] Forgive us for not trusting in the power and the beauty of your light, -[1695.34 --> 1698.06] for not seeing the beauty of your love. -[1699.84 --> 1702.28] How we longed to see your light -[1702.28 --> 1705.62] shining in this dark world. Holy Spirit, -[1706.44 --> 1710.16] will you open up our eyes to the hope we have in Jesus -[1710.16 --> 1714.56] and the power that is in his name. Jesus, the darkness -[1714.56 --> 1718.46] has not and will not overcome you. Help us -[1718.46 --> 1724.10] to walk boldly, knowing it is in you alone that our hope is found. Amen. -[1724.10 --> 1737.72] In Christ alone -[1737.72 --> 1750.34] My hope is found. He is my life, my strength, my soul. This cornerstone, this solid ground, -[1750.34 --> 1759.76] firm through the piercest drought and storm. What highs of love, what depths of peace, -[1759.76 --> 1769.70] when fears are still and strivings cease. My comforter, my all in all, -[1769.70 --> 1775.04] here in the love of Christ I stand. -[1775.04 --> 1793.28] In Christ alone, who took on flesh, fullness of love and helpless faith, -[1793.28 --> 1805.56] this gift of love and righteousness, scorned by the ones he came to save. Till on the cross -[1805.56 --> 1822.38] that Jesus died, the wrath of God was satisfied. For every sin on him was laid, here in the death of Christ I live. -[1822.38 --> 1829.38] in Christ alone, who took on flesh, the wrath of God was satisfied. -[1829.38 --> 1844.38] There in the ground his body lay, Light of the world by darkness slain. Then bursting forth in glorious day, -[1844.38 --> 1853.38] up from the grave he rose again. And as he stands in victory, -[1853.38 --> 1862.38] since curse has lost its grip on me. For I am his, and he is mine, -[1862.38 --> 1869.38] bought with the precious blood of Christ. -[1869.38 --> 1885.38] No guilt in life, no fear in death, This is the power of Christ in me. -[1885.38 --> 1894.38] From life's first cry to final breath, Jesus commends my destiny. -[1894.38 --> 1903.38] No power of hell, no scheme of man, Can ever pluck me from his hand. -[1903.38 --> 1912.38] Till he returns, or calls me home, Here in the power of Christ I'll stand. -[1912.38 --> 1921.38] No power of hell, no scheme of man, Can ever pluck me from his hand. -[1921.38 --> 1932.38] Till he returns, or calls me home, Here in the power of Christ I'll stand. -[1932.38 --> 1937.38] Till he returns, or calls me home, Here in the power of Christ I'll stand. -[1937.38 --> 1942.38] Till he returns, or calls me home, Here in the power of Christ I'll stand. -[1942.38 --> 1959.38] Till he returns, or calls me home, Here in the power of Christ I'll stand. -[1959.38 --> 1970.38] All have declared the glory of the risen Lord, -[1970.38 --> 1982.38] Who can compare, With the beauty of the Lord. -[1982.38 --> 1993.38] Forever he will be, Forever he will be, The Lamb upon the throne, -[1993.38 --> 2005.38] I gladly bow my knee, I gladly bow my knee, And worship him alone. -[2005.38 --> 2021.38] I will proclaim, The glory of the risen Lord, Who once was slain, -[2021.38 --> 2026.38] To reconcile, O man, To come. -[2026.38 --> 2036.38] Forever he will be, Forever he will be, The Lamb upon the throne, -[2036.38 --> 2044.38] The Lamb upon the throne, I gladly bow my knee, I gladly bow my knee, -[2044.38 --> 2046.38] And worship him alone. -[2046.38 --> 2049.38] And worship him alone. -[2049.38 --> 2057.38] Forever he will be, Forever he will be, The Lamb upon the throne, -[2057.38 --> 2063.38] The Lamb upon the throne, The Lamb upon the throne, I gladly bow my knee, -[2063.38 --> 2073.38] I gladly bow my knee, I gladly bow my knee, And worship him alone. -[2073.38 --> 2078.38] I gladly bow my knee, I gladly bow my knee, And worship him alone. -[2078.38 --> 2079.38] And worship him alone. -[2079.38 --> 2080.38] And worship him alone. -[2080.38 --> 2081.38] Yes. -[2081.38 --> 2083.38] Let's take them to church. -[2083.38 --> 2084.38] Okay. -[2084.38 --> 2086.38] Good morning. -[2086.38 --> 2087.38] My name is Clim. -[2087.38 --> 2108.36] I also have done this in the Attire,, and I thank you for fulfilling the -[2108.36 --> 2109.80] I'm one of the deacons here at Emanuel. -[2110.22 --> 2113.90] The first offering is for the ministry and missions of our church. -[2114.80 --> 2117.52] The special offering today is a reverse offering. -[2118.38 --> 2123.40] We have been blessed as a church and are called to pass that blessing on to others. -[2124.08 --> 2130.94] So if you know someone who is struggling, you can give them a small gift by way of a gift card. -[2130.94 --> 2143.96] If we do run out of gift cards or you know someone who needs more than $25, talk to myself or one of the other deacons after the service and we are happy to help. -[2146.92 --> 2149.96] Matthew chapter 6 verse 1 to 4. -[2149.96 --> 2154.66] Truly I tell you, they have not received their reward in full. -[2155.44 --> 2164.60] But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing so that your giving may be in secret. -[2165.64 --> 2170.92] Then your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you. -[2170.92 --> 2180.98] There's the bags are for the budget and then there's baskets going around with the gift cards in it. -[2181.28 --> 2181.70] Thank you. -[2181.70 --> 2182.70] Thank you. -[2200.92 --> 2230.90] Thank you. -[2230.92 --> 2247.42] Thank you. -[2247.42 --> 2255.68] Thank you. -[2255.68 --> 2257.36] Thank you. -[2257.36 --> 2260.48] since day -[2260.48 --> 2262.16] oh -[2262.16 --> 2266.14] shepherds -[2266.14 --> 2268.72] why this jubilee -[2268.72 --> 2271.56] why your joyous -[2271.56 --> 2272.96] strains prolong -[2272.96 --> 2274.92] what glad -[2274.92 --> 2277.16] joys and tidings -[2277.16 --> 2278.86] be which -[2278.86 --> 2280.52] inspire your -[2280.52 --> 2282.28] heavenly song -[2282.28 --> 2290.68] Gloria -[2290.68 --> 2295.62] in excelsis Deo -[2295.62 --> 2301.68] Gloria -[2301.68 --> 2309.68] in excelsis Deo -[2309.68 --> 2315.68] come to Bethlehem -[2315.68 --> 2317.40] and sing -[2317.40 --> 2319.58] him whose birth -[2319.58 --> 2321.82] the angels sing -[2321.82 --> 2323.96] come adore -[2323.96 --> 2325.70] on bed and -[2325.70 --> 2327.94] knee Christ the -[2327.94 --> 2329.86] Lord the new -[2329.86 --> 2330.80] Lord King -[2330.80 --> 2333.50] Gloria -[2333.50 --> 2335.50] Gloria -[2335.50 --> 2343.50] in excelsis Deo -[2344.06 --> 2347.42] Gloria -[2347.42 --> 2349.50] in excelsis Deo -[2349.50 --> 2351.48] Gloria -[2351.48 --> 2355.84] in excelsis Deo -[2355.84 --> 2356.84] Amen. -[2385.84 --> 2392.84] Good morning, everybody. -[2392.84 --> 2398.84] Can I have the preschoolers all the way up to grade four come up to the front today? -[2398.84 --> 2416.84] I have a question for you. -[2416.84 --> 2426.84] Have you guys ever waited for something that was going to take forever to get here? -[2426.84 --> 2428.84] Christmas? -[2428.84 --> 2429.84] Your birthday? -[2429.84 --> 2431.84] Is anybody else? -[2431.84 --> 2432.84] Ruby? -[2432.84 --> 2433.84] Christmas? -[2433.84 --> 2434.84] Yeah? -[2434.84 --> 2436.84] Anybody else? -[2436.84 --> 2441.84] And how did you guys feel when you had to wait and wait and wait? -[2441.84 --> 2445.84] Halloween? -[2445.84 --> 2448.84] How did you feel? -[2448.84 --> 2451.84] Were you excited? -[2451.84 --> 2455.84] Were you anxious? -[2455.84 --> 2457.84] How did you guys feel? -[2457.84 --> 2460.84] Ruby, how did you feel when you have to wait for Christmas? -[2460.84 --> 2461.84] Excited? -[2461.84 --> 2463.84] Because we have lots of things going on. -[2463.84 --> 2474.84] Today in children's worship time, Joseph is going to get a message from an angel of a surprise. -[2474.84 --> 2477.84] And then they have to wait for the surprise to come. -[2477.84 --> 2483.84] And we are going to learn from Joseph's point of view today in the birth of the story. -[2483.84 --> 2485.84] So can everybody stand up? -[2485.84 --> 2487.84] I'm going to look at the parents. -[2487.84 --> 2491.84] And here we go. -[2491.84 --> 2492.84] The Lord be with you. -[2492.84 --> 2493.84] And also with you. -[2493.84 --> 2494.84] And also with you. -[2494.84 --> 2495.84] And we are going to ask you. -[2495.84 --> 2496.84] And also with you. -[2496.84 --> 2497.84] And also with you. -[2497.84 --> 2499.84] And also with you. -[2499.84 --> 2526.52] Good morning. -[2526.52 --> 2556.50] Thank you. -[2556.52 --> 2563.34] We are grateful for everyone's generosity and gifts and using their resources to serve -[2563.34 --> 2564.46] the Lord through this church. -[2564.88 --> 2569.08] We encourage everyone to think of how you can continue to do that. -[2569.56 --> 2574.28] And then one final push, if we can get to the point where we meet our budget for the -[2574.28 --> 2577.40] year as we have in past years, that would be a wonderful blessing. -[2577.40 --> 2583.28] If you have any questions about how to give, there's numerous ways to talk to myself, any -[2583.28 --> 2586.34] of the other council members, elders, pastors, staff. -[2586.92 --> 2589.48] There's also information in our e-bulletins. -[2589.48 --> 2596.20] Also, a couple other announcements on the youth side, or actually one of them is for church -[2596.20 --> 2596.50] wide. -[2596.64 --> 2598.04] It's for the Mexico mission trip. -[2598.96 --> 2603.70] It's often a lot of youth that attend, and youth grade 10 and up are encouraged to attend, -[2604.12 --> 2606.96] but everyone consider that this trip is open to anyone. -[2606.96 --> 2613.28] So for details on signing up and on what to do for that, see Brandon sitting in the back -[2613.28 --> 2613.74] corner here. -[2613.84 --> 2615.70] He'll be at the Connect booth after church. -[2615.70 --> 2623.00] Also, tonight for youth, the HCBC will be happening from 7 till 8 o'clock. -[2623.66 --> 2628.42] And we just got some exciting news from the Skipper family that Dave and Sheila Skipper had -[2628.42 --> 2630.38] a baby girl, Ava Rose. -[2631.40 --> 2633.84] So we praise God for that. -[2636.14 --> 2638.82] Okay, let's turn to our Lord in prayer. -[2638.82 --> 2648.42] God of creation, Lord of all, our loving Father, we come to you this morning through -[2648.42 --> 2651.70] Jesus, who is the way, the truth, and the life. -[2652.70 --> 2656.62] As we just sang, all heaven declares the glory of the risen Lord. -[2657.18 --> 2660.10] Who can compare with the beauty of the Lord? -[2661.42 --> 2666.98] Lord, we know we do not need to be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer -[2666.98 --> 2671.14] and petition, with thanksgiving, present our request to you, God. -[2671.94 --> 2676.32] Lord, we praise you with thanksgiving for all of the blessings you bestow on us. -[2677.00 --> 2679.54] Every good and perfect gift comes from you, Lord. -[2680.74 --> 2685.58] We thank you for the gift of children, and we pray your blessing on the families in our -[2685.58 --> 2687.74] congregation who are expecting new little ones. -[2688.32 --> 2692.96] We praise you for the exciting news with the Skippers of their new baby, Ava Rose. -[2692.96 --> 2697.50] And Lord, we pray for those who long to have children and have not. -[2698.04 --> 2701.88] Help us trust you to fulfill your will for our lives. -[2702.98 --> 2704.66] Lord, we praise you for our health. -[2705.24 --> 2710.02] We rejoice with Jerry Jansen and her family, as Jerry's granddaughter, Christina, is feeling -[2710.02 --> 2713.74] positive effects from the medication she's taking in her lupus treatment. -[2713.74 --> 2719.36] And we thank you also, Lord, for your hand at work in Jerry's daughter, Gonda, as her heart -[2719.36 --> 2721.92] valve surgery was successful, and she's back home now. -[2723.02 --> 2729.42] Lord, we lift up Dennis Kolkman as he adapts to living with his diabetes diagnosis and adjusts -[2729.42 --> 2730.34] to his new home. -[2731.04 --> 2736.24] In the midst of change, Lord, bless us with the peace of your constant, unchanging love. -[2737.78 --> 2742.02] Lord, we pray for Sai and Greta as Sai is going through tests and treatment. -[2742.02 --> 2745.64] Lord, bring them your peace in this time of uncertainty. -[2746.64 --> 2750.28] We also lift up John Trass as he undergoes medical tests. -[2750.88 --> 2755.82] We ask that you bring John healing and comfort, and we pray for good results for the tests. -[2757.34 --> 2760.64] Lord, at times our lives are so full of uncertainty. -[2761.60 --> 2767.14] Help us hold fast to the certainty of hope and a future that we may have in you, Lord. -[2767.14 --> 2773.78] We also pray for Emmanuel Church and the ministries you have led us to participate in. -[2774.42 --> 2780.30] Lord, make us a beacon of your hope and a love and love to a broken and hurting world. -[2781.40 --> 2785.76] We pray, Lord, that you provide this world with a peace that is only found in you. -[2786.44 --> 2791.50] For those who are suffering from the results of war and violence happening in various places, -[2791.50 --> 2797.28] we pray that you provide them with both physical and mental healing and an end to these wars. -[2798.84 --> 2801.78] Lord, we pray for families, families that are suffering. -[2802.48 --> 2808.28] There's brokenness, loss, loneliness, and grief touching many of us in numerous ways. -[2809.28 --> 2813.74] Some of us are experiencing burdensome times of hardships and underemployment. -[2814.50 --> 2819.02] Lord, help us cast all our burdens on you and know that you will sustain us. -[2819.02 --> 2821.52] You will never let the righteous be shaken. -[2822.90 --> 2825.68] Heal our families and heal our hearts, Lord. -[2826.14 --> 2828.26] Come, O come, Emmanuel, we pray. -[2829.28 --> 2833.12] Lord, as we gather around the table as a body of believers, -[2833.70 --> 2838.22] Lord, we pray that we would be filled as we partake in communion. -[2839.58 --> 2843.32] And as Pastor Chris now comes to bring us your word of Advent hope, -[2843.82 --> 2846.78] we pray that your message through him will resonate in our hearts. -[2846.78 --> 2847.10] Let us pray that you will pray that you will be filled as we pray. -[2847.10 --> 2847.78] Let us pray that you will be filled as we pray. -[2847.78 --> 2850.14] Let us pray that you will be the gospel in the weeks ahead. -[2851.08 --> 2853.76] Let us hold true to the song we just sang. -[2854.38 --> 2857.34] We will proclaim the glory of the risen Lord, -[2857.82 --> 2861.82] who once was slain to reconcile man to God. -[2862.58 --> 2865.68] Forever you will be the Lamb upon the throne, -[2866.08 --> 2869.54] and we gladly bow our knee and worship you alone. -[2869.96 --> 2871.12] In Jesus' name we pray. -[2871.58 --> 2871.86] Amen. -[2871.86 --> 2871.94] Amen. -[2871.94 --> 2872.00] Amen. -[2876.78 --> 2897.96] If you have a Bible, I'm going to invite you, -[2899.40 --> 2902.34] excuse me, to turn that to Isaiah 8. -[2902.34 --> 2907.28] Isaiah 8, we're going to read verse 11 through 17. -[2908.90 --> 2912.66] As we go through, and before we do, just a note, -[2912.76 --> 2916.40] we're going to really focus on verse 17 of this text, -[2916.54 --> 2919.86] and so keep that in mind as we read together. -[2928.86 --> 2930.26] Isaiah 8. -[2932.34 --> 2936.64] Starting at verse 11. -[2936.68 --> 2942.02] This is what the Lord says to me with his strong hand upon me, -[2942.28 --> 2945.12] warning me not to follow the way of his people. -[2946.12 --> 2949.92] Do not call conspiracy everything this people calls conspiracy. -[2950.32 --> 2953.60] Do not fear what they fear, and do not dread it. -[2954.26 --> 2958.22] The Lord Almighty is the one you are to regard as holy. -[2958.22 --> 2960.30] He is the one you are to fear. -[2960.60 --> 2962.52] He is the one you are to dread. -[2962.86 --> 2966.66] He will be a holy place for both Israel and Judah. -[2967.08 --> 2969.78] He will be a stone that causes people to stumble, -[2969.96 --> 2971.40] a rock that makes them fall. -[2971.98 --> 2973.68] And for the people of Jerusalem, -[2973.90 --> 2975.66] he will be a trap and a snare. -[2976.12 --> 2977.34] Many of them will stumble. -[2977.48 --> 2978.72] They will fall and be broken. -[2978.88 --> 2980.40] They will be snared and captured. -[2981.50 --> 2983.64] Bind up this testimony of warning, -[2983.64 --> 2986.98] and seal up God's instruction among my disciples. -[2987.86 --> 2989.72] I will wait for the Lord, -[2990.08 --> 2992.86] who is hiding his face from the descendants of Jacob. -[2993.30 --> 2996.44] I will put my trust in him. -[2996.98 --> 2998.24] This is the word of the Lord. -[2998.24 --> 3006.76] So, for about five hours this week, -[3007.16 --> 3016.16] an entire nation had their hopes wrapped up in one unsure thing. -[3017.52 --> 3019.20] Rob knows what I'm talking about. -[3019.88 --> 3020.98] He might be the only one. -[3021.98 --> 3023.94] For about five hours this week, -[3023.94 --> 3028.20] the Toronto Blue Jays were surely signing Shohei Otani. -[3029.22 --> 3031.62] He was on a plane and had come to Toronto. -[3032.78 --> 3034.22] Kikuchi, another Blue Jay, -[3034.32 --> 3036.56] had rented out a Japanese restaurant. -[3036.90 --> 3039.92] December 8th is important in Japanese culture. -[3040.94 --> 3044.40] The Twitterverse, Xverse, whatever that's called now, -[3044.46 --> 3045.30] was a buzz, -[3045.44 --> 3049.02] and everyone was super excited and super hopeful -[3049.02 --> 3054.32] until word came that, -[3054.44 --> 3058.06] no, he was still at his home in Los Angeles, -[3058.46 --> 3060.40] and he wasn't, in fact, in Toronto. -[3060.82 --> 3061.98] And then a couple hours later, -[3062.08 --> 3063.48] Hope was dashed even further -[3063.48 --> 3066.46] when we found out that he'd signed with the Dodgers. -[3068.04 --> 3070.74] Now, for those of you who that means absolutely nothing, -[3072.04 --> 3074.58] Shohei Otani is a two-way baseball player. -[3074.58 --> 3078.84] He is a once-in-a-century phenomenon as an ace pitcher -[3078.84 --> 3082.64] and a home-run smashing derby winner. -[3083.18 --> 3085.06] He is a phenomenal player -[3085.06 --> 3088.24] around which the Blue Jays could have easily built a World Series team. -[3089.36 --> 3092.02] I'm old enough to remember the last time the Blue Jays won. -[3093.24 --> 3096.32] I hope that my kids will also have that experience. -[3098.16 --> 3100.28] And it could have happened next season. -[3101.00 --> 3103.60] But alas, probably the Dodgers. -[3103.60 --> 3108.36] Hope in the world can be like that. -[3108.72 --> 3111.26] And it can sometimes feel a fickle thing, -[3111.96 --> 3114.44] at least for Toronto sports fans. -[3117.10 --> 3118.20] Yeah, there it is. -[3118.26 --> 3118.64] Thank you. -[3122.06 --> 3127.56] This morning, as we explore this idea of hope, -[3127.56 --> 3133.32] my desire is that we will see, -[3133.80 --> 3139.98] in contrast to how we often talk about hope culturally -[3139.98 --> 3141.34] and in the world today, -[3141.68 --> 3147.02] and what the Bible can offer us in its place. -[3147.94 --> 3149.42] Now, our focus, like I said, -[3149.50 --> 3152.56] comes from verse 17 of the text. -[3152.56 --> 3154.26] And as you read, -[3154.50 --> 3156.64] please get the sense of the text, -[3156.76 --> 3160.80] where the people are standing in this place of uncertainty. -[3161.72 --> 3163.94] They're standing in this place of fear -[3163.94 --> 3165.88] and an unknown future, -[3166.38 --> 3169.66] where things feel like a trap, -[3169.80 --> 3173.14] and where people will be stumbling around in darkness, -[3173.32 --> 3175.30] not sure what is going on. -[3175.30 --> 3176.96] And then Isaiah says, -[3177.34 --> 3179.34] I will wait for the Lord, -[3179.34 --> 3182.38] who is hiding his face from the descendants of Jacob. -[3182.74 --> 3186.68] I will put my trust in him. -[3188.00 --> 3190.56] That word, translated trust, -[3190.90 --> 3192.78] in Isaiah 8 verse 17, -[3193.06 --> 3196.56] is one of the Hebrew words for hope. -[3198.04 --> 3199.84] If you read the ESV, -[3200.00 --> 3202.54] which is another really excellent translation of the Bible, -[3202.54 --> 3204.70] it says hope there. -[3205.74 --> 3208.70] If you read the New English translation of the Bible, -[3208.80 --> 3210.10] which again is another really good one, -[3210.34 --> 3212.12] it says wait there. -[3214.26 --> 3216.30] Trust and wait. -[3217.62 --> 3218.10] Hope. -[3218.98 --> 3221.26] Put my hope in him, says Isaiah. -[3221.40 --> 3223.74] I will wait for him. -[3225.04 --> 3229.22] This Advent, as we look at these words of Advent, -[3229.40 --> 3231.46] peace, hope, joy, and love, -[3231.46 --> 3233.84] we started last week with peace, -[3234.00 --> 3234.94] this week hope, -[3235.10 --> 3237.64] next week Josh is going to help us explore joy. -[3238.34 --> 3239.64] As we look this week, -[3240.16 --> 3241.96] biblical hope is different -[3241.96 --> 3244.96] than the kinds or ideas of hope -[3244.96 --> 3248.58] that are talked about in culture and in the world. -[3250.26 --> 3253.26] This morning is not only for us -[3253.26 --> 3255.88] a biblical theology of hope, -[3255.94 --> 3257.34] but a bit of a contrast -[3257.34 --> 3259.52] to this cultural idea of hope. -[3259.52 --> 3263.10] And what I hope you will see is, -[3263.16 --> 3264.88] and here's our big idea for the morning, -[3266.06 --> 3269.90] biblical hope is not based on circumstances, -[3270.48 --> 3272.64] but on the person of God -[3272.64 --> 3275.64] who has promised a certain future. -[3277.10 --> 3279.26] Biblical hope is not based on circumstances, -[3279.48 --> 3280.64] whatever they may be, -[3280.90 --> 3282.60] but on the person of God -[3282.60 --> 3285.82] who has promised a certain future. -[3285.82 --> 3291.00] Now, just like the translation of the Hebrew word, -[3291.38 --> 3293.64] kavah, into English, -[3294.38 --> 3296.74] the concept of biblical hope -[3296.74 --> 3301.86] includes those two aspects of trust and waiting. -[3303.14 --> 3303.72] Right? -[3303.78 --> 3306.60] You can trust in the midst of a need for hope -[3306.60 --> 3309.60] because you can know that God has promised -[3309.60 --> 3311.66] a particular future. -[3311.66 --> 3314.58] And because we trust with hope, -[3314.72 --> 3317.78] we wait for a certain future to come about -[3317.78 --> 3319.78] knowing that it is fixed. -[3321.30 --> 3322.16] And so already, -[3322.44 --> 3324.42] as we begin just digging here, -[3325.32 --> 3327.60] right, when I say that biblical hope -[3327.60 --> 3329.44] is not based on circumstances, -[3329.70 --> 3331.04] but on the person of God -[3331.04 --> 3333.68] who has promised a certain future, -[3334.34 --> 3337.38] that word certain, right, -[3337.38 --> 3339.20] that word in certain future -[3339.20 --> 3343.28] means particular and fixed. -[3345.00 --> 3346.92] The future that God promises -[3346.92 --> 3348.48] is particular -[3348.48 --> 3351.54] because it looks a particular way. -[3351.68 --> 3353.32] It looks a certain way -[3353.32 --> 3356.24] and He knows exactly how it looks -[3356.24 --> 3358.66] and He knows exactly how to get us there. -[3359.52 --> 3359.64] Right? -[3359.68 --> 3361.32] God has promised a future -[3361.32 --> 3363.88] that can be told about -[3363.88 --> 3366.12] and anticipated already -[3366.12 --> 3368.70] because He has revealed it to us -[3368.70 --> 3369.66] in His Word. -[3371.24 --> 3371.42] Right? -[3371.46 --> 3372.34] It is a future -[3372.34 --> 3375.18] when all things are made new. -[3376.02 --> 3376.94] It is a future -[3376.94 --> 3378.28] when there's no more crying -[3378.28 --> 3380.56] or dying or pain -[3380.56 --> 3382.40] for the old order has been washed away. -[3382.62 --> 3383.40] It is a future -[3383.40 --> 3385.64] where everything is made right, -[3385.88 --> 3387.96] where there's no more injustice, -[3387.96 --> 3390.34] where there's perfect shalom, -[3390.74 --> 3391.92] peace with God. -[3391.92 --> 3392.90] It is a future -[3392.90 --> 3394.88] where the dwelling place of God -[3394.88 --> 3397.00] is now with humanity. -[3397.98 --> 3398.08] Right? -[3398.10 --> 3399.60] That's part of our hope -[3399.60 --> 3403.74] and it is a particularly well-defined view -[3403.74 --> 3405.34] of human history -[3405.34 --> 3407.16] and where we're going. -[3408.52 --> 3411.36] And that hope is particular -[3411.36 --> 3412.44] or it is certain -[3412.44 --> 3415.02] and it is fixed. -[3415.68 --> 3415.84] Right? -[3415.86 --> 3417.28] That's the other aspect of this. -[3417.40 --> 3419.66] The hope that God has promised -[3419.66 --> 3421.50] for a certain future -[3421.50 --> 3422.84] is both particular -[3422.84 --> 3424.38] and fixed. -[3424.60 --> 3425.70] And what that means is -[3425.70 --> 3427.22] it can't be changed. -[3428.10 --> 3428.22] Right? -[3428.26 --> 3429.76] That God will accomplish -[3429.76 --> 3430.60] the purpose -[3430.60 --> 3432.64] for which He has set out -[3432.64 --> 3433.70] both in creation -[3433.70 --> 3434.78] and in redemption. -[3435.22 --> 3435.42] Right? -[3435.46 --> 3436.70] In revealing His Word -[3436.70 --> 3437.42] to the world -[3437.42 --> 3438.86] and His coming down -[3438.86 --> 3440.14] as the Word made flesh -[3440.14 --> 3441.60] in the person of Jesus Christ. -[3441.88 --> 3442.38] In fact, -[3442.94 --> 3444.08] Christmas itself -[3444.08 --> 3445.74] is an example -[3445.74 --> 3447.64] of how this truth, -[3447.90 --> 3450.32] this fixed future truth -[3450.32 --> 3452.88] is realized among us. -[3453.84 --> 3454.24] Right? -[3454.24 --> 3454.88] Because Christmas -[3454.88 --> 3456.38] leads to the life -[3456.38 --> 3457.44] and the death -[3457.44 --> 3458.24] and the resurrection -[3458.24 --> 3459.56] of Jesus Christ. -[3460.28 --> 3462.02] In Romans 5 verse 6 says, -[3462.02 --> 3463.06] You see, -[3463.94 --> 3465.54] at just the right time, -[3466.02 --> 3467.84] when we were still powerless, -[3468.46 --> 3470.88] Christ died for the ungodly. -[3471.42 --> 3472.34] And that phrase, -[3472.44 --> 3474.82] at just the right time, -[3475.38 --> 3477.34] means everything here. -[3478.46 --> 3478.70] Right? -[3478.82 --> 3480.28] Everything God does -[3480.28 --> 3482.82] is at just the right time. -[3484.40 --> 3486.76] His future and His plans -[3486.76 --> 3487.80] are fixed -[3487.80 --> 3490.92] because God is the Lord of time, -[3490.92 --> 3491.96] not bound by it, -[3492.00 --> 3493.16] but ruling over it. -[3494.20 --> 3494.32] Right? -[3494.38 --> 3495.56] Before the foundation -[3495.56 --> 3496.62] of the world, -[3496.74 --> 3498.62] before God even began -[3498.62 --> 3499.46] to create, -[3499.66 --> 3500.84] He knew exactly -[3500.84 --> 3502.08] what would happen -[3502.08 --> 3503.34] and how He would -[3503.34 --> 3504.30] redeem the world -[3504.30 --> 3504.96] in response, -[3505.06 --> 3505.84] how He would bring it -[3505.84 --> 3506.72] back to Himself -[3506.72 --> 3508.72] at just the right time. -[3511.44 --> 3513.50] And God's promise -[3513.50 --> 3515.98] isn't like when you -[3515.98 --> 3518.00] or I say a promise, -[3518.12 --> 3518.60] when we say, -[3518.74 --> 3519.56] I promise, right? -[3519.70 --> 3520.36] There's always -[3520.36 --> 3521.26] the possibility -[3521.26 --> 3523.00] of falling short. -[3523.90 --> 3524.50] There's always -[3524.50 --> 3525.24] the possibility -[3525.24 --> 3526.42] of not following through. -[3527.04 --> 3527.94] With God, -[3528.06 --> 3529.24] there is no possibility -[3529.24 --> 3530.34] of falling short -[3530.34 --> 3531.02] of His promise. -[3531.14 --> 3532.22] There is no possibility -[3532.22 --> 3534.20] of Him falling short. -[3534.30 --> 3535.24] There is no possibility -[3535.24 --> 3537.14] of God being made a liar. -[3537.60 --> 3537.88] In fact, -[3538.06 --> 3538.90] Numbers 23 -[3538.90 --> 3540.30] addresses this exactly, -[3540.82 --> 3541.02] saying, -[3541.14 --> 3542.44] God is not human -[3542.44 --> 3543.54] that He should lie, -[3543.68 --> 3544.62] not a human being -[3544.62 --> 3545.54] that He should change -[3545.54 --> 3546.50] His mind. -[3546.82 --> 3547.64] Does He speak -[3547.64 --> 3548.60] and then not act? -[3548.96 --> 3549.86] Does He promise -[3549.86 --> 3550.70] and not fulfill? -[3552.54 --> 3553.60] Of course He does. -[3553.70 --> 3554.34] He promises -[3554.34 --> 3555.74] and fulfills. -[3555.88 --> 3556.80] That's who God is. -[3556.88 --> 3558.14] He can't lie. -[3558.42 --> 3559.28] He doesn't promise -[3559.28 --> 3560.32] and leave that promise -[3560.32 --> 3560.88] unfulfilled -[3560.88 --> 3561.86] because that would be -[3561.86 --> 3563.68] contrary to His nature, -[3564.24 --> 3565.60] the very being of God. -[3567.52 --> 3568.54] Biblical hope -[3568.54 --> 3570.02] is trust -[3570.02 --> 3571.50] and waiting, -[3571.50 --> 3572.64] or it is trust -[3572.64 --> 3573.98] in waiting -[3573.98 --> 3576.48] for a fixed, -[3576.92 --> 3578.02] particular, -[3578.82 --> 3580.56] certain future. -[3583.20 --> 3584.20] Now culturally, -[3584.56 --> 3585.36] let's contrast, -[3585.52 --> 3585.92] culturally, -[3586.28 --> 3587.28] in the world today, -[3587.48 --> 3588.84] hope is something -[3588.84 --> 3590.52] a little different -[3590.52 --> 3591.58] and what I hope -[3591.58 --> 3592.68] we will begin to see, -[3592.82 --> 3593.74] what I hope -[3593.74 --> 3594.50] we will begin to see -[3594.50 --> 3596.72] is that it is something -[3596.72 --> 3598.58] a little bit less -[3598.58 --> 3600.38] than what the Bible -[3600.38 --> 3600.98] has to offer. -[3601.66 --> 3602.86] Generally speaking, -[3603.06 --> 3604.40] hope in our world -[3604.40 --> 3606.50] is a sense of longing, -[3607.18 --> 3607.42] right? -[3607.48 --> 3608.54] And that sense of longing -[3608.54 --> 3609.38] can be ambiguous -[3609.38 --> 3610.56] or it can be unclear, -[3610.90 --> 3612.18] but it's a desire -[3612.18 --> 3613.12] for something else. -[3613.74 --> 3614.30] Hope, -[3614.46 --> 3615.58] for so many people, -[3616.06 --> 3617.82] is defined -[3617.82 --> 3619.26] as some sort of -[3619.26 --> 3621.14] unsure optimism. -[3622.58 --> 3622.82] Now, -[3623.28 --> 3625.92] in its simplest form, -[3626.36 --> 3626.52] right, -[3626.70 --> 3628.12] optimism is about -[3628.12 --> 3629.26] choosing to see -[3629.26 --> 3630.24] how a situation -[3630.24 --> 3631.86] could work out -[3631.86 --> 3632.58] for the best. -[3633.72 --> 3634.76] Not that it will, -[3635.50 --> 3636.28] but that it could. -[3637.32 --> 3637.54] Now, -[3637.88 --> 3639.56] let's slow down -[3639.56 --> 3639.94] a minute -[3639.94 --> 3641.30] and be clear, -[3641.52 --> 3641.72] right, -[3641.78 --> 3643.04] because choosing -[3643.04 --> 3643.96] to see -[3643.96 --> 3645.04] how a situation -[3645.04 --> 3646.20] could work out -[3646.20 --> 3647.34] for the best -[3647.34 --> 3649.04] is a really -[3649.04 --> 3650.04] healthy practice. -[3652.04 --> 3652.56] Right? -[3652.62 --> 3653.46] In counseling, -[3653.98 --> 3654.86] in therapy, -[3654.86 --> 3655.88] if you've ever -[3655.88 --> 3658.02] had the honor -[3658.02 --> 3658.74] of doing that, -[3658.82 --> 3659.60] you might talk -[3659.60 --> 3661.64] about reframing -[3661.64 --> 3662.60] your particular -[3662.60 --> 3663.42] circumstances. -[3664.68 --> 3664.88] Right? -[3664.88 --> 3665.38] You might talk -[3665.38 --> 3665.82] about how you -[3665.82 --> 3666.68] choose to see -[3666.68 --> 3667.54] things in a different -[3667.54 --> 3667.96] light, -[3668.36 --> 3669.28] in a way that -[3669.28 --> 3670.06] doesn't reinforce -[3670.06 --> 3671.22] negative ideas -[3671.22 --> 3671.84] or reinforce -[3671.84 --> 3673.50] words or things -[3673.50 --> 3674.02] that are bouncing -[3674.02 --> 3674.98] around in your head. -[3675.94 --> 3676.76] And let me be, -[3676.88 --> 3677.06] again, -[3677.18 --> 3678.02] abundantly clear, -[3678.14 --> 3678.24] like, -[3678.38 --> 3679.32] doing that work -[3679.32 --> 3680.38] is really good. -[3681.08 --> 3681.92] It's healthy, -[3682.40 --> 3683.30] important work. -[3683.30 --> 3684.38] And in my own -[3684.38 --> 3684.88] counseling, -[3685.18 --> 3685.60] people, -[3685.76 --> 3686.58] and in receiving, -[3687.10 --> 3687.26] right, -[3687.46 --> 3689.84] we do this work -[3689.84 --> 3690.72] together. -[3691.20 --> 3692.86] And I use the language -[3692.86 --> 3695.04] of making new meaning. -[3695.76 --> 3695.98] Right? -[3696.02 --> 3696.52] The idea -[3696.52 --> 3697.92] being that -[3697.92 --> 3699.14] after an experience -[3699.14 --> 3700.02] or a situation, -[3700.02 --> 3701.48] we make particular -[3701.48 --> 3702.18] meanings -[3702.18 --> 3703.88] of certain events -[3703.88 --> 3705.78] because of things -[3705.78 --> 3706.76] that were said to us -[3706.76 --> 3707.60] or done to us -[3707.60 --> 3708.84] or things that we did -[3708.84 --> 3710.28] or things that we said. -[3710.98 --> 3711.14] Right? -[3711.20 --> 3711.48] And then, -[3711.74 --> 3712.90] in our processing, -[3712.90 --> 3714.06] the healthy, -[3714.74 --> 3716.52] maybe even optimistic, -[3717.04 --> 3717.82] reframing -[3717.82 --> 3718.70] is to make -[3718.70 --> 3719.90] a new meaning. -[3721.18 --> 3721.38] Right? -[3721.40 --> 3722.76] It's to redefine -[3722.76 --> 3723.52] that event -[3723.52 --> 3724.88] for us. -[3725.24 --> 3725.38] Now, -[3725.42 --> 3726.36] sometimes that requires -[3726.36 --> 3727.26] talking to the people -[3727.26 --> 3727.76] involved. -[3727.94 --> 3729.22] Sometimes that requires -[3729.22 --> 3730.32] forgiving other people. -[3730.48 --> 3731.52] Sometimes that requires -[3731.52 --> 3733.16] forgiving ourselves. -[3734.02 --> 3735.18] And all of these things, -[3735.24 --> 3735.42] again, -[3735.50 --> 3736.30] all of these things -[3736.30 --> 3736.84] are good -[3736.84 --> 3737.80] and healthy -[3737.80 --> 3738.92] and they're part -[3738.92 --> 3740.94] of this cultural idea -[3740.94 --> 3742.78] that floats around -[3742.78 --> 3744.12] in the word of hope. -[3745.66 --> 3746.56] In fact, -[3746.78 --> 3749.06] in the field of education -[3749.06 --> 3750.06] right now, -[3750.12 --> 3750.90] there's all this -[3750.90 --> 3752.82] really good work -[3752.82 --> 3753.48] and talk -[3753.48 --> 3754.88] about growth mindset. -[3756.40 --> 3757.78] We use this language -[3757.78 --> 3758.44] in our own home, -[3758.80 --> 3759.14] actually. -[3759.44 --> 3759.56] Right? -[3759.58 --> 3760.08] The idea -[3760.08 --> 3761.28] that you are growing -[3761.28 --> 3762.24] in understanding -[3762.24 --> 3763.72] and growing in capacity -[3763.72 --> 3764.98] and growing in ability. -[3764.98 --> 3766.48] And so, -[3766.76 --> 3768.40] when your kid says to you, -[3768.50 --> 3769.84] I can't do this, -[3770.36 --> 3771.56] we reframe it -[3771.56 --> 3772.38] and we say, -[3772.58 --> 3773.64] you're learning -[3773.64 --> 3774.58] how to do this. -[3775.60 --> 3775.82] Right? -[3775.86 --> 3776.68] When someone says, -[3776.78 --> 3777.50] I'm too shy -[3777.50 --> 3778.82] to speak in front of people, -[3779.10 --> 3780.04] we reframe it -[3780.04 --> 3780.66] and we say, -[3781.04 --> 3781.58] with practice -[3781.58 --> 3782.34] and encouragement, -[3782.62 --> 3783.36] I can become -[3783.36 --> 3784.14] more confident -[3784.14 --> 3785.08] and I can improve -[3785.08 --> 3786.40] my public speaking skills. -[3788.22 --> 3788.34] Right? -[3789.06 --> 3790.18] Carol Dweck -[3790.18 --> 3791.80] is a leading researcher -[3791.80 --> 3792.52] in this field. -[3792.62 --> 3793.86] She's from Stanford University -[3793.86 --> 3795.36] and she writes, -[3796.44 --> 3797.82] in a growth mindset, -[3798.54 --> 3799.24] people believe -[3799.24 --> 3800.68] that their most basic abilities -[3800.68 --> 3801.48] can be developed -[3801.48 --> 3802.22] through dedication -[3802.22 --> 3803.12] and hard work. -[3803.66 --> 3804.68] Brains and talent -[3804.68 --> 3806.56] are just the starting point. -[3808.64 --> 3809.24] And so again, -[3809.62 --> 3811.84] don't hear what I'm not saying -[3811.84 --> 3813.34] because all of these -[3813.34 --> 3814.70] are really good examples -[3814.70 --> 3815.98] and we can learn -[3815.98 --> 3816.74] and be -[3816.74 --> 3817.64] and do this -[3817.64 --> 3818.96] and they come to us -[3818.96 --> 3821.20] largely from the world today -[3821.20 --> 3821.96] and our culture. -[3822.50 --> 3823.54] All of them -[3823.54 --> 3824.88] require -[3824.88 --> 3827.60] an active definition -[3827.60 --> 3829.50] or an active understanding -[3829.50 --> 3829.96] though -[3829.96 --> 3831.00] of hope. -[3832.46 --> 3833.64] Hope that the way -[3833.64 --> 3835.24] things currently are -[3835.24 --> 3836.62] don't have to be -[3836.62 --> 3837.38] the way things -[3837.38 --> 3838.26] always will be. -[3840.84 --> 3841.74] But whenever -[3841.74 --> 3843.40] I look into -[3843.40 --> 3844.56] these kinds of -[3844.56 --> 3846.26] cultural understandings -[3846.26 --> 3846.90] of ideas, -[3847.38 --> 3848.84] I'm always left -[3848.84 --> 3850.12] with the question, -[3851.12 --> 3851.52] how? -[3851.52 --> 3853.66] How can I have -[3853.66 --> 3854.60] this kind of hope? -[3855.74 --> 3855.88] Right? -[3855.94 --> 3857.70] Or where does this -[3857.70 --> 3858.72] kind of hope come from? -[3858.80 --> 3859.88] What is it grounded in? -[3860.14 --> 3860.68] And perhaps -[3860.68 --> 3861.90] most importantly, -[3862.76 --> 3863.48] why? -[3864.86 --> 3866.20] Why is it true -[3866.20 --> 3867.26] that things -[3867.26 --> 3868.38] don't have to be -[3868.38 --> 3869.76] the way they currently are? -[3871.12 --> 3871.34] Right? -[3871.38 --> 3872.22] It seems to me, -[3872.38 --> 3873.14] strictly speaking, -[3873.40 --> 3874.82] that unless we have -[3874.82 --> 3876.04] a bigger idea -[3876.04 --> 3877.10] than this world, -[3877.10 --> 3878.24] all we can say -[3878.24 --> 3879.12] with confidence -[3879.12 --> 3880.32] is that things -[3880.32 --> 3880.82] are the way -[3880.82 --> 3881.62] they currently are. -[3883.32 --> 3884.76] Not that they can be -[3884.76 --> 3885.44] or that they have -[3885.44 --> 3886.52] to be any different. -[3888.22 --> 3889.10] In fact, -[3889.84 --> 3890.92] I think that -[3890.92 --> 3892.98] honest intellectuals -[3892.98 --> 3893.76] outside of the -[3893.76 --> 3894.46] Christian tradition -[3894.46 --> 3895.62] have recognized this. -[3896.58 --> 3897.46] For instance, -[3897.62 --> 3898.48] everyone's favorite -[3898.48 --> 3899.62] modern philosopher, -[3900.02 --> 3900.36] Nietzsche, -[3900.80 --> 3901.20] says, -[3901.20 --> 3903.40] hope in the world -[3903.40 --> 3904.16] in reality -[3904.16 --> 3905.10] is the worst -[3905.10 --> 3905.90] of all evils -[3905.90 --> 3907.18] because it prolongs -[3907.18 --> 3908.10] the torments of man. -[3909.56 --> 3909.94] Now, -[3910.00 --> 3911.04] that's an extreme example -[3911.04 --> 3911.94] and not all of us -[3911.94 --> 3912.66] are nihilists. -[3913.30 --> 3913.64] At least, -[3913.74 --> 3914.70] I hope none of us here -[3914.70 --> 3915.74] are nihilists -[3915.74 --> 3916.46] even if we have -[3916.46 --> 3917.24] some of those tendencies. -[3918.58 --> 3918.84] And so, -[3918.92 --> 3919.98] a less extreme example. -[3921.14 --> 3922.12] In an essay -[3922.12 --> 3922.64] called -[3922.64 --> 3923.70] Secular Hope, -[3924.46 --> 3925.38] John Keeks -[3925.38 --> 3925.96] writes, -[3927.20 --> 3928.44] the modest hope, -[3928.60 --> 3929.32] notice he's already -[3929.32 --> 3930.46] limiting his definition -[3930.46 --> 3930.86] of hope. -[3930.94 --> 3931.76] The modest hope -[3931.76 --> 3933.10] rests on the possibility -[3933.10 --> 3934.14] that we have -[3934.14 --> 3935.02] some control -[3935.02 --> 3935.98] over our lives -[3935.98 --> 3937.32] and we can increase -[3937.32 --> 3938.30] the control we have. -[3940.78 --> 3940.96] Now, -[3940.98 --> 3941.80] in this case, -[3941.92 --> 3942.16] right, -[3942.28 --> 3943.66] the why of hope -[3943.66 --> 3945.28] rests on the idea -[3945.28 --> 3945.94] that we have -[3945.94 --> 3946.72] some control -[3946.72 --> 3948.42] and that we can -[3948.42 --> 3950.00] increase our control. -[3951.14 --> 3952.28] But that's an awful -[3952.28 --> 3953.06] big assumption -[3953.06 --> 3954.38] about human autonomy -[3954.38 --> 3955.34] and about our -[3955.34 --> 3956.40] particular powers -[3956.40 --> 3957.30] and prowess -[3957.30 --> 3958.18] in the world. -[3958.46 --> 3958.90] And, -[3959.12 --> 3959.84] it ultimately -[3959.84 --> 3960.92] still limits hope -[3960.92 --> 3961.74] because it means -[3961.74 --> 3962.68] that hope is limited -[3962.68 --> 3963.24] to the things -[3963.24 --> 3964.06] that I can control -[3964.06 --> 3965.72] or things that I can -[3965.72 --> 3966.76] reasonably hope -[3966.76 --> 3967.34] to control -[3967.34 --> 3968.30] in the future. -[3968.86 --> 3970.02] But let's be honest, -[3970.08 --> 3971.10] that's not satisfactory -[3971.10 --> 3972.20] because when we need -[3972.20 --> 3973.08] hope the most, -[3973.50 --> 3974.66] things are out of control. -[3976.20 --> 3976.72] And so, -[3976.78 --> 3977.64] we need a different hope. -[3979.24 --> 3979.72] Right? -[3979.80 --> 3980.82] That kind of hope -[3980.82 --> 3981.92] doesn't spur -[3981.92 --> 3982.68] nations -[3982.68 --> 3984.24] to great cultural -[3984.24 --> 3984.84] productivity. -[3984.84 --> 3986.18] That kind of hope -[3986.18 --> 3987.10] doesn't change -[3987.10 --> 3987.86] the world. -[3988.00 --> 3988.84] That kind of hope -[3988.84 --> 3990.42] isn't even -[3990.42 --> 3991.46] what most people -[3991.46 --> 3992.44] experience -[3992.44 --> 3993.28] when they talk -[3993.28 --> 3993.88] about hope. -[3995.12 --> 3996.26] Hope in the Bible -[3996.26 --> 3997.74] is something -[3997.74 --> 3998.64] different. -[3998.82 --> 3999.70] And the kind of hope -[3999.70 --> 4000.26] that Isaiah -[4000.26 --> 4001.46] is talking about here -[4001.46 --> 4002.84] is different. -[4004.00 --> 4004.40] Now, -[4004.46 --> 4004.86] we started -[4004.86 --> 4006.00] with that video -[4006.00 --> 4006.62] and so we're not -[4006.62 --> 4007.54] going to go through -[4007.54 --> 4008.56] all of this again. -[4008.74 --> 4008.94] But, -[4009.12 --> 4010.38] in the Old Testament, -[4010.94 --> 4011.54] there are -[4011.54 --> 4012.76] three words -[4012.76 --> 4013.64] that are primarily -[4013.64 --> 4014.74] used for hope. -[4015.60 --> 4015.90] And, -[4016.02 --> 4017.30] I'm not going to give you -[4017.30 --> 4018.30] every example of them -[4018.30 --> 4019.38] but just some particular -[4019.38 --> 4020.68] ones to make the point. -[4021.48 --> 4022.64] The first word -[4022.64 --> 4023.42] used for hope -[4023.42 --> 4023.94] in Hebrew -[4023.94 --> 4024.88] is yachal. -[4025.16 --> 4025.96] It's the word -[4025.96 --> 4027.06] used by Job. -[4027.68 --> 4028.80] You remember Job's story. -[4029.32 --> 4029.42] Right? -[4029.52 --> 4030.48] Job lost everything, -[4030.64 --> 4031.50] suffered everything -[4031.50 --> 4033.70] and near death. -[4034.10 --> 4034.84] Job 13, -[4035.20 --> 4035.90] Job says, -[4036.32 --> 4038.04] though he slay me, -[4038.76 --> 4040.04] I will hope -[4040.04 --> 4041.18] in him. -[4042.76 --> 4043.56] Right? -[4043.62 --> 4044.06] Yachal -[4044.06 --> 4044.88] is the word -[4044.88 --> 4046.54] used in Psalm 42. -[4047.58 --> 4047.92] Right? -[4048.02 --> 4048.62] Verse 11 -[4048.62 --> 4050.14] where the psalmist says, -[4050.24 --> 4050.94] and this is familiar -[4050.94 --> 4051.82] to many of you, -[4052.20 --> 4053.36] Why, my soul, -[4053.48 --> 4054.54] are you downcast? -[4055.04 --> 4056.28] Why so disturbed -[4056.28 --> 4056.80] within me? -[4056.94 --> 4057.98] Put your hope -[4057.98 --> 4059.00] in God -[4059.00 --> 4060.18] for I will yet -[4060.18 --> 4061.32] praise him. -[4062.14 --> 4062.50] Right? -[4062.54 --> 4063.66] This kind of hope -[4063.66 --> 4064.82] is about waiting. -[4065.12 --> 4066.18] It's about being patient -[4066.18 --> 4067.08] in the midst -[4067.08 --> 4068.36] of whatever is happening. -[4068.50 --> 4069.30] It's about trusting -[4069.30 --> 4070.04] that God -[4070.04 --> 4070.86] has a purpose -[4070.86 --> 4072.32] for this moment -[4072.32 --> 4073.74] whatever it may be. -[4074.16 --> 4074.28] Right? -[4074.38 --> 4075.90] No amount of slaying -[4075.90 --> 4076.76] or chaos -[4076.76 --> 4078.40] of waves and breakers -[4078.40 --> 4079.46] crashing over us -[4079.46 --> 4080.96] in this particular experience. -[4081.34 --> 4082.26] Whatever that may be, -[4082.40 --> 4083.82] God has a purpose -[4083.82 --> 4084.78] and so hope -[4084.78 --> 4085.48] means we -[4085.48 --> 4086.30] wait -[4086.30 --> 4087.56] patiently. -[4090.14 --> 4091.46] One of the other words -[4091.46 --> 4092.46] used for hope -[4092.46 --> 4093.14] is the word -[4093.14 --> 4093.84] kavah. -[4093.94 --> 4094.48] That's the word -[4094.48 --> 4095.42] that Isaiah uses -[4095.42 --> 4096.16] that we've seen -[4096.16 --> 4097.56] and it's the word -[4097.56 --> 4098.98] that Jacob uses -[4098.98 --> 4100.42] in Genesis 49 -[4100.42 --> 4102.00] when he says -[4102.00 --> 4103.26] I will look -[4103.26 --> 4104.88] for your deliverance -[4104.88 --> 4105.58] Lord. -[4107.42 --> 4108.62] I will look -[4108.62 --> 4110.06] is that word -[4110.06 --> 4111.08] hope. -[4111.34 --> 4112.30] I will wait. -[4112.62 --> 4113.80] I will anticipate. -[4114.38 --> 4115.56] I will search out. -[4116.48 --> 4116.58] Right? -[4116.76 --> 4117.84] Hope involves -[4117.84 --> 4118.26] waiting -[4118.26 --> 4119.72] but with anticipation -[4119.72 --> 4121.14] and it involves -[4121.14 --> 4122.12] searching out -[4122.12 --> 4122.90] the Lord -[4122.90 --> 4123.62] and looking -[4123.62 --> 4124.40] for the things -[4124.40 --> 4124.88] in the midst -[4124.88 --> 4125.62] of the unknown -[4125.62 --> 4126.34] and whatever -[4126.34 --> 4126.98] that experience -[4126.98 --> 4127.48] may be. -[4127.48 --> 4130.68] And the last word -[4130.68 --> 4131.18] for hope -[4131.18 --> 4133.20] is tikvah -[4133.20 --> 4134.32] in Hebrew. -[4136.06 --> 4136.78] If you live -[4136.78 --> 4137.44] in this neighborhood -[4137.44 --> 4138.48] there's a barista -[4138.48 --> 4139.14] at Starbucks -[4139.14 --> 4139.62] over there -[4139.62 --> 4140.64] whose name is tikvah -[4140.64 --> 4142.30] and so if you ever -[4142.30 --> 4143.18] go through the drive-thru -[4143.18 --> 4144.24] and you see her name tag -[4144.24 --> 4144.62] tikvah -[4144.62 --> 4145.08] you can say -[4145.08 --> 4145.70] hey hope -[4145.70 --> 4146.30] how you doing? -[4146.86 --> 4147.96] She'll be really impressed. -[4148.10 --> 4148.88] She was when I did it -[4148.88 --> 4149.42] the last time. -[4153.94 --> 4155.06] Jeremiah 29 -[4155.06 --> 4156.24] verse 11 -[4156.24 --> 4157.42] for I know -[4157.42 --> 4157.98] the plans -[4157.98 --> 4158.76] I have for you -[4158.76 --> 4159.62] declares the Lord -[4159.62 --> 4161.24] plans to prosper you -[4161.24 --> 4162.18] and not to harm you -[4162.18 --> 4163.34] plans to give you -[4163.34 --> 4164.48] a tikvah -[4164.48 --> 4166.62] and a future. -[4169.10 --> 4170.48] God has a hope -[4170.48 --> 4172.50] and we have a hope -[4172.50 --> 4173.48] because of who -[4173.48 --> 4175.42] God is. -[4176.14 --> 4176.64] And yes -[4176.64 --> 4177.16] our hope -[4177.16 --> 4178.24] involves waiting -[4178.24 --> 4178.92] and it involves -[4178.92 --> 4179.54] patience. -[4179.90 --> 4180.22] Our hope -[4180.22 --> 4180.96] also involves -[4180.96 --> 4182.14] eagerly anticipating -[4182.14 --> 4183.48] and being on the edge -[4183.48 --> 4183.98] of our seats -[4183.98 --> 4184.72] waiting for God -[4184.72 --> 4185.14] to do -[4185.14 --> 4185.70] what God -[4185.70 --> 4186.36] is going to do -[4186.36 --> 4187.40] and our hope -[4187.40 --> 4189.28] is trusting. -[4191.88 --> 4192.36] Trusting -[4192.36 --> 4193.24] that God -[4193.24 --> 4193.78] will do it. -[4195.22 --> 4195.96] Now in the New Testament -[4195.96 --> 4196.90] this idea -[4196.90 --> 4197.94] carries -[4197.94 --> 4199.18] forward. -[4199.38 --> 4200.28] In the New Testament -[4200.28 --> 4203.06] Paul writes -[4203.06 --> 4203.80] he says -[4203.80 --> 4205.40] in this hope -[4205.40 --> 4206.96] we are saved. -[4208.28 --> 4208.64] But hope -[4208.64 --> 4209.32] that is seen -[4209.32 --> 4210.02] is no hope -[4210.02 --> 4210.40] at all. -[4210.72 --> 4211.28] Who hopes -[4211.28 --> 4211.72] for what they -[4211.72 --> 4212.42] already have -[4212.42 --> 4213.08] but if we -[4213.08 --> 4213.76] hope for what -[4213.76 --> 4214.34] we do not -[4214.34 --> 4214.72] have -[4214.72 --> 4215.66] we wait -[4215.66 --> 4216.44] for it -[4216.44 --> 4217.36] patiently. -[4218.54 --> 4219.44] The New Testament -[4219.44 --> 4220.24] the Greek word -[4220.24 --> 4221.04] now for hope -[4221.04 --> 4221.74] is elpis -[4221.74 --> 4222.22] and you see -[4222.22 --> 4222.48] the way -[4222.48 --> 4223.02] Paul uses -[4223.02 --> 4223.40] it there -[4223.40 --> 4224.04] it brings -[4224.04 --> 4225.28] all of those -[4225.28 --> 4226.38] Old Testament -[4226.38 --> 4227.10] ideas -[4227.10 --> 4228.04] of waiting -[4228.04 --> 4228.86] and anticipating -[4228.86 --> 4229.70] and trusting -[4229.70 --> 4230.62] and looking -[4230.62 --> 4231.18] to God -[4231.18 --> 4231.70] together -[4231.70 --> 4232.88] into one. -[4235.14 --> 4236.06] The author -[4236.06 --> 4236.58] of Hebrews -[4236.58 --> 4237.18] continues -[4237.18 --> 4238.72] instructing us -[4238.72 --> 4238.92] saying -[4238.92 --> 4239.72] let us hold -[4239.72 --> 4241.04] unswervingly -[4241.04 --> 4241.70] to the hope -[4241.70 --> 4242.36] we profess -[4242.36 --> 4243.18] for he -[4243.18 --> 4244.06] who promised -[4244.06 --> 4245.20] is faithful. -[4246.62 --> 4247.34] So as we -[4247.34 --> 4248.00] build on -[4248.00 --> 4248.80] this idea -[4248.80 --> 4249.70] of what hope -[4249.70 --> 4250.36] is and what -[4250.36 --> 4251.04] it can be -[4251.04 --> 4251.62] for us -[4251.62 --> 4252.30] in the world -[4252.30 --> 4252.64] today -[4252.64 --> 4253.28] as Christians -[4253.28 --> 4254.16] who know -[4254.16 --> 4254.54] God -[4254.54 --> 4255.10] and are known -[4255.10 --> 4255.60] by God -[4255.60 --> 4256.12] as Christians -[4256.12 --> 4256.80] who have seen -[4256.80 --> 4257.16] God -[4257.16 --> 4257.84] at work -[4257.84 --> 4258.40] in the world -[4258.40 --> 4258.76] through -[4258.76 --> 4259.56] the Christmas -[4259.56 --> 4260.08] story -[4260.08 --> 4261.02] of God -[4261.02 --> 4261.64] taking on -[4261.64 --> 4262.00] flesh -[4262.00 --> 4262.58] and coming -[4262.58 --> 4263.32] as a baby -[4263.32 --> 4263.76] the hope -[4263.76 --> 4264.54] of nations -[4264.54 --> 4265.52] fulfilled -[4265.52 --> 4266.40] in that moment -[4266.40 --> 4267.02] as we -[4267.02 --> 4267.70] as Christians -[4267.70 --> 4268.42] have seen -[4268.42 --> 4269.48] this hope -[4269.48 --> 4270.18] of nations -[4270.18 --> 4270.60] grow -[4270.60 --> 4271.16] and become -[4271.16 --> 4271.64] obedient -[4271.64 --> 4273.12] even unto -[4273.12 --> 4273.60] death -[4273.60 --> 4274.34] on the cross -[4274.34 --> 4274.84] as we have -[4274.84 --> 4275.90] the hope -[4275.90 --> 4276.50] of Christmas -[4276.50 --> 4277.16] turning -[4277.16 --> 4278.74] into the hope -[4278.74 --> 4279.54] and the joy -[4279.54 --> 4280.40] of Good Friday -[4280.40 --> 4281.50] and Easter -[4281.50 --> 4283.80] we are called -[4283.80 --> 4284.84] to hold -[4284.84 --> 4286.46] unswervingly -[4286.46 --> 4287.44] to the hope -[4287.44 --> 4288.26] that we profess -[4288.26 --> 4289.16] for he -[4289.16 --> 4289.92] who promised -[4289.92 --> 4291.14] is faithful -[4291.14 --> 4292.70] and so notice -[4292.70 --> 4293.00] right -[4293.00 --> 4294.62] that hold -[4294.62 --> 4295.76] unswervingly -[4295.76 --> 4296.90] hope -[4296.90 --> 4297.92] requires -[4297.92 --> 4299.18] discipline -[4299.18 --> 4301.18] hope requires -[4301.18 --> 4302.34] a force -[4302.34 --> 4303.18] of mind -[4303.18 --> 4304.08] and of spirit -[4304.08 --> 4305.02] and of will -[4305.02 --> 4306.12] in the face -[4306.12 --> 4307.08] of all those -[4307.08 --> 4307.60] things -[4307.60 --> 4308.44] that tell -[4308.44 --> 4309.82] us to the contrary -[4309.82 --> 4310.72] all those things -[4310.72 --> 4311.70] that pull us -[4311.70 --> 4312.62] into the darkness -[4312.62 --> 4313.80] all those things -[4313.80 --> 4314.86] that may slay -[4314.86 --> 4316.18] us in the moment -[4316.18 --> 4317.20] hope says -[4317.20 --> 4318.12] I hold -[4318.12 --> 4319.56] unswervingly -[4319.56 --> 4320.98] to the truth -[4320.98 --> 4322.80] to the truth -[4322.80 --> 4323.50] that we -[4323.50 --> 4324.70] profess -[4324.70 --> 4325.36] let us hold -[4325.36 --> 4326.00] unswervingly -[4326.00 --> 4326.50] to the hope -[4326.50 --> 4327.26] we profess -[4327.26 --> 4328.26] hope -[4328.26 --> 4329.86] of this kind -[4329.86 --> 4330.72] requires -[4330.72 --> 4331.60] a profession -[4331.60 --> 4332.62] it requires -[4332.62 --> 4333.42] a statement -[4333.42 --> 4334.32] of belief -[4334.32 --> 4334.98] it requires -[4334.98 --> 4335.34] that we -[4335.34 --> 4336.18] preach to -[4336.18 --> 4336.64] ourselves -[4336.64 --> 4337.66] even when -[4337.66 --> 4338.58] our senses -[4338.58 --> 4339.54] and everyone -[4339.54 --> 4340.38] else in the world -[4340.38 --> 4341.34] is telling you -[4341.34 --> 4342.20] this or that -[4342.20 --> 4342.54] thing -[4342.54 --> 4343.50] we say -[4343.50 --> 4344.46] I believe -[4344.46 --> 4345.52] this is -[4345.52 --> 4346.06] true -[4346.06 --> 4346.90] I believe -[4346.90 --> 4347.80] God is -[4347.80 --> 4348.34] who God -[4348.34 --> 4348.72] is -[4348.72 --> 4349.08] and that -[4349.08 --> 4349.52] what he -[4349.52 --> 4350.30] has said -[4350.30 --> 4351.28] will come -[4351.28 --> 4352.00] about -[4352.00 --> 4352.48] hope -[4352.48 --> 4353.34] requires -[4353.34 --> 4354.44] a profession -[4354.44 --> 4355.40] but finally -[4355.40 --> 4356.78] let us hold -[4356.78 --> 4357.50] unswervingly -[4357.50 --> 4357.98] to the hope -[4357.98 --> 4358.56] we profess -[4358.56 --> 4359.14] for he -[4359.14 --> 4360.04] who promised -[4360.04 --> 4360.88] is faithful -[4360.88 --> 4363.76] he who promised -[4363.76 --> 4365.36] is faithful -[4365.36 --> 4367.72] the power -[4367.72 --> 4369.02] of Christian -[4369.02 --> 4369.52] hope -[4369.52 --> 4371.12] the power -[4371.12 --> 4372.24] the confidence -[4372.24 --> 4373.52] that we have -[4373.52 --> 4374.22] in our hope -[4374.22 --> 4375.70] is not in -[4375.70 --> 4376.14] one -[4376.14 --> 4376.88] the strength -[4376.88 --> 4377.82] of my discipline -[4377.82 --> 4379.56] or the intensity -[4379.56 --> 4380.54] of my discipline -[4380.54 --> 4381.06] though we are -[4381.06 --> 4381.86] required to have it -[4381.86 --> 4383.10] it's not in two -[4383.10 --> 4384.18] the strength -[4384.18 --> 4384.90] or the scope -[4384.90 --> 4385.82] of my profession -[4385.82 --> 4386.82] though we are -[4386.82 --> 4387.78] required to make it -[4387.78 --> 4389.04] to declare it boldly -[4389.04 --> 4390.10] the strength -[4390.10 --> 4390.68] of my hope -[4390.68 --> 4391.32] the truth -[4391.32 --> 4392.56] of our conviction -[4392.56 --> 4393.74] is in -[4393.74 --> 4394.92] the person -[4394.92 --> 4396.12] who promised -[4396.12 --> 4397.44] for he -[4397.44 --> 4398.36] who promised -[4398.36 --> 4399.86] is faithful -[4399.86 --> 4402.02] biblical hope -[4402.02 --> 4402.52] is not based -[4402.52 --> 4403.72] on your circumstances -[4403.72 --> 4404.46] or how much -[4404.46 --> 4405.12] control -[4405.12 --> 4406.26] you may have -[4406.26 --> 4407.00] or reasonably -[4407.00 --> 4408.20] assume you can have -[4408.20 --> 4409.00] in the world -[4409.00 --> 4409.80] but it is based -[4409.80 --> 4410.78] on the person -[4410.78 --> 4411.36] of God -[4411.36 --> 4412.60] who has promised -[4412.60 --> 4413.20] for you -[4413.20 --> 4414.30] a certain -[4414.30 --> 4415.82] future -[4415.82 --> 4418.70] and so we go -[4418.70 --> 4419.52] from this -[4419.52 --> 4420.22] place -[4420.22 --> 4422.22] hope -[4422.22 --> 4423.04] filled -[4423.04 --> 4424.60] to be -[4424.60 --> 4425.20] full -[4425.20 --> 4426.80] of hope -[4426.80 --> 4427.98] in the world -[4427.98 --> 4430.56] as we've said -[4430.56 --> 4431.18] a number of times -[4431.18 --> 4431.86] already this morning -[4431.86 --> 4433.02] in this -[4433.02 --> 4434.34] present darkness -[4434.34 --> 4436.60] we light a candle -[4436.60 --> 4438.60] hope -[4438.60 --> 4440.42] is the candle -[4440.42 --> 4441.82] that changes -[4441.82 --> 4442.42] the world -[4442.42 --> 4443.64] hope -[4443.64 --> 4444.42] is that little -[4444.42 --> 4445.18] bit of light -[4445.18 --> 4446.42] that pierces -[4446.42 --> 4446.84] out -[4446.84 --> 4447.98] and separates -[4447.98 --> 4448.86] darkness -[4448.86 --> 4449.44] hope -[4449.44 --> 4450.32] is what -[4450.32 --> 4450.80] people -[4450.80 --> 4451.88] will see -[4451.88 --> 4452.50] and will -[4452.50 --> 4453.10] wonder -[4453.10 --> 4453.94] how -[4453.94 --> 4455.02] on this -[4455.02 --> 4455.64] earth -[4455.64 --> 4457.46] can you -[4457.46 --> 4458.10] have hope -[4458.10 --> 4462.10] no -[4462.10 --> 4465.26] hope -[4465.26 --> 4466.54] can still -[4466.54 --> 4467.22] be hard -[4467.22 --> 4470.78] in the video -[4470.78 --> 4471.32] we watched -[4471.32 --> 4472.18] Tim Mackey -[4472.18 --> 4472.72] says -[4472.72 --> 4474.18] Christian hope -[4474.18 --> 4475.04] looks back -[4475.04 --> 4476.10] to the risen -[4476.10 --> 4476.52] Jesus -[4476.52 --> 4477.32] in order -[4477.32 --> 4478.40] to look forward -[4478.40 --> 4479.96] in this -[4479.96 --> 4480.66] present moment -[4480.66 --> 4482.44] the table -[4482.44 --> 4483.86] is us -[4483.86 --> 4484.66] doing that -[4484.66 --> 4486.20] we look -[4486.20 --> 4486.64] back -[4486.64 --> 4487.42] and we -[4487.42 --> 4487.90] remember -[4487.90 --> 4488.52] the death -[4488.52 --> 4488.88] and the -[4488.88 --> 4489.30] resurrection -[4489.30 --> 4489.82] of Jesus -[4489.82 --> 4490.30] Christ -[4490.30 --> 4491.14] in order -[4491.14 --> 4491.94] that from -[4491.94 --> 4492.64] here we -[4492.64 --> 4493.12] can be -[4493.12 --> 4493.64] filled -[4493.64 --> 4495.06] with hope -[4495.06 --> 4496.30] in order -[4496.30 --> 4496.84] that from -[4496.84 --> 4497.38] here we -[4497.38 --> 4497.70] can be -[4497.70 --> 4498.34] filled -[4498.34 --> 4499.34] by God -[4499.34 --> 4499.98] and nourished -[4499.98 --> 4500.46] by him -[4500.46 --> 4501.88] right -[4501.88 --> 4502.62] this isn't -[4502.62 --> 4503.22] simply -[4503.22 --> 4504.20] a remembrance -[4504.20 --> 4506.04] but this -[4506.04 --> 4506.32] is an -[4506.32 --> 4506.80] act of -[4506.80 --> 4507.06] God -[4507.06 --> 4507.42] where he -[4507.42 --> 4508.22] meets us -[4508.22 --> 4508.66] at the -[4508.66 --> 4509.04] table -[4509.04 --> 4510.04] and sends -[4510.04 --> 4510.68] us out -[4510.68 --> 4511.06] in the -[4511.06 --> 4511.50] power -[4511.50 --> 4512.98] of hope -[4512.98 --> 4514.10] this is -[4514.10 --> 4515.06] a celebration -[4515.06 --> 4515.76] of what -[4515.76 --> 4516.26] God has -[4516.26 --> 4516.56] done -[4516.56 --> 4517.06] and so -[4517.06 --> 4517.86] as we -[4517.86 --> 4518.48] come to -[4518.48 --> 4519.40] this table -[4519.40 --> 4520.52] come as -[4520.52 --> 4521.70] those longing -[4521.70 --> 4523.32] for hope -[4523.32 --> 4523.94] come as -[4523.94 --> 4524.40] those who -[4524.40 --> 4524.86] recognize -[4524.86 --> 4525.72] that we -[4525.72 --> 4526.52] need -[4526.52 --> 4527.24] this -[4527.24 --> 4528.00] hope -[4528.00 --> 4528.72] come as -[4528.72 --> 4529.56] those who -[4529.56 --> 4530.38] will -[4530.38 --> 4531.16] be -[4531.16 --> 4532.04] filled -[4532.04 --> 4533.68] as we -[4533.68 --> 4533.94] come to -[4533.94 --> 4534.36] this table -[4534.36 --> 4534.84] we come -[4534.84 --> 4535.64] with a -[4535.64 --> 4536.02] liturgy -[4536.02 --> 4536.76] I'm going -[4536.76 --> 4537.04] to invite -[4537.04 --> 4537.30] you to -[4537.30 --> 4537.68] speak the -[4537.68 --> 4538.06] words -[4538.06 --> 4539.28] of our -[4539.28 --> 4539.96] approaching -[4539.96 --> 4540.74] the table -[4540.74 --> 4541.64] together -[4541.64 --> 4543.20] lift up -[4543.20 --> 4543.72] your hearts -[4543.72 --> 4547.42] let us -[4547.42 --> 4547.98] give thanks -[4547.98 --> 4548.30] to the -[4548.30 --> 4548.70] Lord our -[4548.70 --> 4549.04] God -[4549.04 --> 4552.70] let's -[4552.70 --> 4553.22] pray together -[4553.22 --> 4555.76] with joy -[4555.76 --> 4556.64] we praise -[4556.64 --> 4557.02] you -[4557.02 --> 4557.52] gracious -[4557.52 --> 4557.98] God -[4557.98 --> 4558.52] for you -[4558.52 --> 4559.20] have made -[4559.20 --> 4559.56] heaven -[4559.56 --> 4560.14] and earth -[4560.14 --> 4560.80] you've -[4560.80 --> 4561.22] made us -[4561.22 --> 4561.50] in your -[4561.50 --> 4561.86] image -[4561.86 --> 4562.30] and kept -[4562.30 --> 4562.72] covenant -[4562.72 --> 4563.26] with us -[4563.26 --> 4563.70] even -[4563.70 --> 4564.38] when we -[4564.38 --> 4564.74] fell -[4564.74 --> 4565.10] into -[4565.10 --> 4565.48] sin -[4565.48 --> 4566.62] we -[4566.62 --> 4567.00] give you -[4567.00 --> 4567.36] thanks -[4567.36 --> 4567.86] for Jesus -[4567.86 --> 4568.30] Christ -[4568.30 --> 4568.58] who -[4568.58 --> 4569.06] by his -[4569.06 --> 4569.50] life -[4569.50 --> 4570.22] death -[4570.22 --> 4570.50] and -[4570.50 --> 4570.98] resurrection -[4570.98 --> 4571.60] opened -[4571.60 --> 4572.20] to us -[4572.20 --> 4572.78] the way -[4572.78 --> 4573.44] of life -[4573.44 --> 4574.34] everlasting -[4574.34 --> 4575.20] and in -[4575.20 --> 4575.86] so doing -[4575.86 --> 4576.44] gave -[4576.44 --> 4577.00] us -[4577.00 --> 4577.84] hope -[4577.84 --> 4579.00] it's in -[4579.00 --> 4579.50] his name -[4579.50 --> 4579.78] that we -[4579.78 --> 4580.08] pray -[4580.08 --> 4581.26] amen -[4581.26 --> 4584.88] Jesus -[4584.88 --> 4586.10] before -[4586.10 --> 4586.54] he -[4586.54 --> 4587.12] suffered -[4587.12 --> 4587.92] and died -[4587.92 --> 4588.74] gave us -[4588.74 --> 4589.58] this memorial -[4589.58 --> 4590.22] of his -[4590.22 --> 4590.86] sacrifice -[4590.86 --> 4591.62] until -[4591.62 --> 4591.94] he -[4591.94 --> 4592.24] comes -[4592.24 --> 4592.58] again -[4592.58 --> 4593.84] and the -[4593.84 --> 4593.98] Lord -[4593.98 --> 4594.30] Jesus -[4594.30 --> 4594.72] on the -[4594.72 --> 4594.94] night -[4594.94 --> 4595.22] that he -[4595.22 --> 4595.46] was -[4595.46 --> 4595.94] betrayed -[4595.94 --> 4596.86] took -[4596.86 --> 4597.48] bread -[4597.48 --> 4599.04] and when -[4599.04 --> 4599.28] he had -[4599.28 --> 4599.46] given -[4599.46 --> 4600.04] thanks -[4600.04 --> 4600.80] he broke -[4600.80 --> 4601.02] it -[4601.02 --> 4601.48] and said -[4601.48 --> 4602.26] this is -[4602.26 --> 4603.30] my body -[4603.30 --> 4603.78] which is -[4603.78 --> 4604.26] for you -[4604.26 --> 4605.36] do this -[4605.36 --> 4606.30] in remembrance -[4606.30 --> 4607.46] of me -[4607.46 --> 4609.36] in the -[4609.36 --> 4609.68] same -[4609.68 --> 4610.26] way -[4610.26 --> 4612.28] after -[4612.28 --> 4612.68] supper -[4612.68 --> 4613.32] he took -[4613.32 --> 4613.84] the cup -[4613.84 --> 4614.82] and saying -[4614.82 --> 4615.60] this cup -[4615.60 --> 4616.20] is the -[4616.20 --> 4616.42] new -[4616.42 --> 4616.82] covenant -[4616.82 --> 4617.86] in my -[4617.86 --> 4618.26] blood -[4618.26 --> 4619.32] do -[4619.32 --> 4619.80] this -[4619.80 --> 4620.18] whenever -[4620.18 --> 4620.58] you -[4620.58 --> 4620.90] drink -[4620.90 --> 4621.08] it -[4621.08 --> 4621.38] in -[4621.38 --> 4621.82] remembrance -[4621.82 --> 4622.98] of me -[4622.98 --> 4624.12] for -[4624.12 --> 4624.42] whenever -[4624.42 --> 4625.02] you eat -[4625.02 --> 4625.30] this -[4625.30 --> 4625.62] bread -[4625.62 --> 4626.30] and drink -[4626.30 --> 4626.68] this -[4626.68 --> 4627.02] cup -[4627.02 --> 4627.40] you -[4627.40 --> 4627.84] proclaim -[4627.84 --> 4628.32] the -[4628.32 --> 4628.72] Lord's -[4628.72 --> 4629.06] death -[4629.06 --> 4629.92] until -[4629.92 --> 4630.34] he -[4630.34 --> 4630.96] comes -[4630.96 --> 4631.84] again -[4631.84 --> 4633.20] this -[4633.20 --> 4633.72] is -[4633.72 --> 4634.00] the -[4634.00 --> 4634.56] mystery -[4634.56 --> 4635.34] of -[4635.34 --> 4635.78] our -[4635.78 --> 4636.40] faith -[4636.40 --> 4638.42] your -[4638.42 --> 4638.76] death -[4638.76 --> 4639.08] oh -[4639.08 --> 4639.50] Christ -[4639.50 --> 4639.94] we -[4639.94 --> 4640.40] proclaim -[4640.40 --> 4641.44] your -[4641.44 --> 4642.04] resurrection -[4642.04 --> 4642.52] we -[4642.52 --> 4642.94] affirm -[4642.94 --> 4643.26] with -[4643.26 --> 4643.64] joy -[4643.64 --> 4644.62] your -[4644.62 --> 4645.08] coming -[4645.08 --> 4645.44] we -[4645.44 --> 4645.84] await -[4645.84 --> 4646.20] with -[4646.20 --> 4646.56] hope -[4646.56 --> 4647.70] glory -[4647.70 --> 4648.06] be -[4648.06 --> 4648.30] to -[4648.30 --> 4648.64] you -[4648.64 --> 4649.02] Lord -[4649.02 --> 4649.46] Jesus -[4649.46 --> 4651.36] church -[4651.36 --> 4651.68] family -[4651.68 --> 4652.60] the -[4652.60 --> 4652.90] Lord -[4652.90 --> 4653.24] has -[4653.24 --> 4653.78] prepared -[4653.78 --> 4654.30] his -[4654.30 --> 4654.88] table -[4654.88 --> 4655.48] for -[4655.48 --> 4655.74] all -[4655.74 --> 4655.94] who -[4655.94 --> 4656.24] love -[4656.24 --> 4656.56] him -[4656.56 --> 4656.80] and -[4656.80 --> 4657.14] trust -[4657.14 --> 4657.34] in -[4657.34 --> 4657.60] him -[4657.60 --> 4658.10] alone -[4658.10 --> 4658.36] for -[4658.36 --> 4658.56] their -[4658.56 --> 4659.04] salvation -[4659.04 --> 4659.64] and -[4659.64 --> 4659.88] so -[4659.88 --> 4660.28] come -[4660.28 --> 4660.54] to -[4660.54 --> 4660.84] this -[4660.84 --> 4661.34] table -[4661.34 --> 4662.00] you -[4662.00 --> 4662.32] who -[4662.32 --> 4662.64] have -[4662.64 --> 4662.96] much -[4662.96 --> 4663.36] faith -[4663.36 --> 4663.66] and -[4663.66 --> 4663.88] you -[4663.88 --> 4664.08] who -[4664.08 --> 4664.30] would -[4664.30 --> 4664.54] like -[4664.54 --> 4664.68] to -[4664.68 --> 4664.86] have -[4664.86 --> 4665.16] more -[4665.16 --> 4665.88] come -[4665.88 --> 4666.04] to -[4666.04 --> 4666.24] this -[4666.24 --> 4666.54] table -[4666.54 --> 4666.82] you -[4666.82 --> 4667.06] who -[4667.06 --> 4667.20] have -[4667.20 --> 4667.48] been -[4667.48 --> 4667.70] to -[4667.70 --> 4667.88] it -[4667.88 --> 4668.32] often -[4668.32 --> 4669.02] and -[4669.02 --> 4669.24] you -[4669.24 --> 4669.44] who -[4669.44 --> 4669.58] have -[4669.58 --> 4669.82] not -[4669.82 --> 4670.10] been -[4670.10 --> 4670.36] for -[4670.36 --> 4670.58] a -[4670.58 --> 4670.80] long -[4670.80 --> 4671.26] time -[4671.26 --> 4671.84] come -[4671.84 --> 4672.02] to -[4672.02 --> 4672.22] this -[4672.22 --> 4672.48] table -[4672.48 --> 4672.78] you -[4672.78 --> 4673.04] who -[4673.04 --> 4673.18] have -[4673.18 --> 4673.60] tried -[4673.60 --> 4673.86] to -[4673.86 --> 4674.18] follow -[4674.18 --> 4674.54] Jesus -[4674.54 --> 4674.90] and -[4674.90 --> 4675.20] you -[4675.20 --> 4675.64] who -[4675.64 --> 4675.82] have -[4675.82 --> 4676.12] failed -[4676.12 --> 4676.46] come -[4676.46 --> 4676.72] to -[4676.72 --> 4677.00] this -[4677.00 --> 4677.42] table -[4677.42 --> 4678.04] because -[4678.04 --> 4678.50] Jesus -[4678.50 --> 4679.34] Christ -[4679.34 --> 4680.06] is -[4680.06 --> 4680.86] raised -[4680.86 --> 4681.28] come -[4681.28 --> 4681.52] to -[4681.52 --> 4681.80] this -[4681.80 --> 4682.22] table -[4682.22 --> 4682.78] and -[4682.78 --> 4683.28] find -[4683.28 --> 4684.12] hope -[4684.12 --> 4685.50] come -[4685.50 --> 4685.76] if -[4685.76 --> 4685.92] you -[4685.92 --> 4686.04] are -[4686.04 --> 4686.38] here -[4686.38 --> 4686.98] with -[4686.98 --> 4687.22] us -[4687.22 --> 4687.42] in -[4691.34 --> 4692.86] the -[4692.86 --> 4695.30] people -[4695.30 --> 4696.10] of -[4696.10 --> 4698.32] God -[4698.32 --> 4698.94] for -[4698.94 --> 4699.06] the -[4699.06 --> 4699.36] people -[4699.36 --> 4700.12] of -[4700.12 --> 4700.46] God -[4700.46 --> 4701.98] as -[4701.98 --> 4702.12] we -[4702.12 --> 4702.34] come -[4702.34 --> 4702.48] to -[4702.48 --> 4702.66] this -[4702.66 --> 4702.96] table -[4702.96 --> 4703.14] we -[4703.14 --> 4703.24] are -[4703.24 --> 4703.34] going -[4703.34 --> 4703.40] to -[4703.40 --> 4703.68] move -[4703.68 --> 4704.10] forward -[4704.10 --> 4704.38] in -[4704.38 --> 4704.76] groups -[4704.76 --> 4706.06] we -[4706.06 --> 4706.34] have -[4706.34 --> 4707.26] elders -[4707.26 --> 4707.50] who -[4707.50 --> 4707.64] will -[4707.64 --> 4707.80] be -[4707.80 --> 4708.24] ushers -[4708.24 --> 4708.48] that -[4708.48 --> 4708.64] is -[4708.64 --> 4708.76] they -[4708.76 --> 4708.90] will -[4708.90 --> 4709.16] tell -[4709.16 --> 4709.36] you -[4709.36 --> 4709.62] when -[4709.62 --> 4709.80] to -[4709.80 --> 4710.02] come -[4710.02 --> 4710.28] up -[4710.28 --> 4710.46] and -[4710.46 --> 4710.58] then -[4710.58 --> 4710.70] we -[4710.70 --> 4710.86] will -[4710.86 --> 4711.18] gather -[4711.18 --> 4711.78] in -[4711.78 --> 4711.96] a -[4711.96 --> 4712.38] circle -[4712.38 --> 4712.88] around -[4712.88 --> 4713.08] the -[4713.08 --> 4713.40] table -[4713.40 --> 4713.58] in -[4713.58 --> 4713.70] the -[4713.70 --> 4713.88] group -[4713.88 --> 4714.08] that -[4714.08 --> 4714.34] comes -[4714.34 --> 4714.58] up -[4714.58 --> 4715.40] and -[4715.40 --> 4715.50] we -[4715.50 --> 4715.62] will -[4715.62 --> 4715.98] pass -[4715.98 --> 4716.20] the -[4716.20 --> 4716.50] bread -[4716.50 --> 4717.62] to -[4717.62 --> 4717.84] your -[4717.84 --> 4718.14] left -[4718.14 --> 4718.36] or -[4718.36 --> 4718.56] to -[4718.56 --> 4718.78] your -[4718.78 --> 4719.08] right -[4719.08 --> 4719.34] and -[4719.34 --> 4719.58] as -[4719.58 --> 4719.72] you -[4719.72 --> 4720.06] pass -[4720.06 --> 4720.26] the -[4720.26 --> 4720.52] bread -[4720.52 --> 4720.72] we -[4720.72 --> 4721.02] invite -[4721.02 --> 4721.16] you -[4721.16 --> 4721.32] to -[4721.32 --> 4721.54] say -[4721.54 --> 4721.76] the -[4721.76 --> 4722.10] body -[4722.10 --> 4722.34] of -[4722.34 --> 4722.76] Christ -[4722.76 --> 4723.38] given -[4723.38 --> 4723.68] for -[4723.68 --> 4723.92] you -[4723.92 --> 4724.62] and -[4724.62 --> 4724.74] then -[4724.74 --> 4724.84] you -[4724.84 --> 4724.96] will -[4724.96 --> 4725.26] pass -[4725.26 --> 4725.48] the -[4725.48 --> 4725.82] juice -[4725.82 --> 4726.06] as -[4726.06 --> 4726.22] it -[4726.22 --> 4726.48] goes -[4726.48 --> 4726.64] to -[4726.64 --> 4726.78] your -[4726.78 --> 4727.06] left -[4727.06 --> 4727.26] or -[4727.26 --> 4727.40] to -[4727.40 --> 4727.56] your -[4727.56 --> 4727.80] right -[4727.80 --> 4728.10] and -[4728.10 --> 4728.54] we -[4728.54 --> 4728.84] invite -[4728.84 --> 4728.98] you -[4728.98 --> 4729.16] to -[4729.16 --> 4729.40] say -[4729.40 --> 4729.62] the -[4729.62 --> 4729.94] blood -[4729.94 --> 4730.20] of -[4730.20 --> 4730.62] Christ -[4730.62 --> 4731.24] shed -[4731.24 --> 4731.96] for -[4731.96 --> 4732.18] you -[4732.18 --> 4733.48] as -[4733.48 --> 4733.62] we -[4733.62 --> 4733.84] come -[4733.84 --> 4734.00] up -[4734.00 --> 4734.12] to -[4734.12 --> 4734.24] the -[4734.24 --> 4734.62] table -[4734.62 --> 4735.14] I'm -[4735.14 --> 4735.26] going -[4735.26 --> 4735.36] to -[4735.36 --> 4735.72] invite -[4735.72 --> 4736.14] those -[4736.14 --> 4736.34] who -[4736.34 --> 4736.64] are -[4736.64 --> 4737.58] helping -[4737.58 --> 4738.12] serve -[4738.12 --> 4738.36] so -[4738.36 --> 4738.52] the -[4738.52 --> 4738.86] elders -[4738.86 --> 4739.04] and -[4739.04 --> 4739.16] the -[4739.16 --> 4739.38] worship -[4739.38 --> 4739.72] team -[4739.72 --> 4739.88] and -[4739.88 --> 4740.00] the -[4740.00 --> 4740.22] prayer -[4740.22 --> 4740.60] team -[4740.60 --> 4741.16] to -[4741.16 --> 4741.36] come -[4741.36 --> 4741.74] forward -[4741.74 --> 4742.20] first -[4742.20 --> 4742.74] we -[4742.74 --> 4742.92] will -[4742.92 --> 4743.24] serve -[4743.24 --> 4743.56] them -[4743.56 --> 4743.76] and -[4743.76 --> 4743.90] then -[4743.90 --> 4744.06] they -[4744.06 --> 4744.18] will -[4744.18 --> 4744.34] go -[4744.34 --> 4744.50] to -[4744.50 --> 4744.64] their -[4744.64 --> 4745.04] respective -[4745.04 --> 4745.54] stations -[4745.54 --> 4745.86] and -[4745.86 --> 4746.06] so -[4746.06 --> 4746.26] if -[4746.26 --> 4746.40] you -[4746.40 --> 4746.52] are -[4746.52 --> 4746.76] looking -[4746.76 --> 4747.02] for -[4747.02 --> 4747.38] prayer -[4747.38 --> 4747.86] or -[4747.86 --> 4747.96] would -[4747.96 --> 4748.10] like -[4748.10 --> 4748.22] to -[4748.22 --> 4748.34] be -[4748.34 --> 4748.52] met -[4748.52 --> 4748.72] by -[4748.72 --> 4749.02] someone -[4749.02 --> 4749.24] for -[4749.24 --> 4749.50] prayer -[4749.50 --> 4749.70] they -[4749.70 --> 4749.82] will -[4749.82 --> 4749.94] be -[4749.94 --> 4750.06] in -[4750.06 --> 4750.20] the -[4750.20 --> 4750.50] foyer -[4750.50 --> 4750.86] at -[4750.86 --> 4750.96] the -[4750.96 --> 4751.24] back -[4751.24 --> 4751.42] you -[4751.42 --> 4751.56] can -[4751.56 --> 4751.74] meet -[4751.74 --> 4751.92] with -[4751.92 --> 4752.06] them -[4752.06 --> 4752.36] there -[4752.36 --> 4754.50] and -[4754.50 --> 4754.70] if -[4754.70 --> 4754.90] you -[4754.90 --> 4755.22] are -[4755.22 --> 4756.16] unable -[4756.16 --> 4756.52] for -[4756.52 --> 4756.78] whatever -[4756.78 --> 4757.16] reason -[4757.16 --> 4757.40] to -[4757.40 --> 4757.62] come -[4757.62 --> 4757.78] up -[4757.78 --> 4757.94] to -[4757.94 --> 4758.14] the -[4758.14 --> 4758.40] front -[4758.40 --> 4758.62] to -[4758.62 --> 4759.12] receive -[4759.12 --> 4759.64] the -[4759.64 --> 4759.88] supper -[4759.88 --> 4760.26] here -[4760.26 --> 4760.60] please -[4760.60 --> 4760.98] indicate -[4760.98 --> 4761.30] that -[4761.30 --> 4761.44] to -[4761.44 --> 4761.58] the -[4761.58 --> 4761.88] elder -[4761.88 --> 4762.48] near -[4762.48 --> 4762.68] your -[4762.68 --> 4762.94] seat -[4762.94 --> 4763.14] and -[4763.14 --> 4763.28] they -[4763.28 --> 4763.42] will -[4763.42 --> 4763.66] come -[4763.66 --> 4763.88] and -[4763.88 --> 4764.12] serve -[4764.12 --> 4764.46] you -[4764.46 --> 4764.98] where -[4764.98 --> 4765.20] you -[4765.20 --> 4765.54] are -[4765.54 --> 4766.32] there -[4766.32 --> 4767.36] can -[4767.36 --> 4767.44] I -[4767.44 --> 4767.76] invite -[4767.76 --> 4768.10] the -[4768.10 --> 4769.40] serving -[4769.40 --> 4770.22] teams -[4770.22 --> 4770.52] up -[4770.52 --> 4770.66] to -[4770.66 --> 4770.80] the -[4770.80 --> 4771.02] front -[4771.02 --> 4771.26] here -[4782.36 --> 4793.90] body -[4793.90 --> 4794.06] of -[4794.06 --> 4794.32] Christ -[4794.32 --> 4794.58] given -[4794.58 --> 4794.78] for -[4794.78 --> 4795.04] you -[4795.04 --> 4797.44] body -[4797.44 --> 4797.60] of -[4797.60 --> 4797.84] Christ -[4797.84 --> 4798.06] given -[4798.06 --> 4798.26] for -[4798.26 --> 4798.42] you -[4812.36 --> 4838.98] eat -[4838.98 --> 4839.54] and -[4839.54 --> 4839.94] remember -[4839.94 --> 4853.10] blood -[4853.10 --> 4853.24] of -[4853.24 --> 4853.50] Christ -[4853.50 --> 4853.78] shed -[4853.78 --> 4853.96] for -[4853.96 --> 4854.16] you -[4854.16 --> 4858.66] blood -[4858.66 --> 4858.82] of -[4858.82 --> 4859.04] Christ -[4859.04 --> 4859.28] shed -[4859.28 --> 4859.44] for -[4859.44 --> 4859.62] you -[4859.68 --> 4860.78] were -[4860.78 --> 4863.60] you -[4870.62 --> 4874.78] put -[4874.78 --> 4876.78] Amen. -[4904.78 --> 4913.36] Drink and have hope. -[4934.78 --> 4936.78] Amen. -[4964.78 --> 4966.78] Amen. -[4966.78 --> 4989.72] Amen. -[4989.72 --> 4997.14] All of creation, all of the earth -[4997.14 --> 5001.64] Make straight a highway, a path for the Lord -[5001.64 --> 5008.06] Jesus is coming soon -[5008.06 --> 5013.88] Call back the sinner, wake up the saint -[5013.88 --> 5018.14] Let every nation shout out your name -[5018.14 --> 5025.02] Jesus is coming soon -[5025.02 --> 5031.60] Like a bride waiting for her groom -[5031.60 --> 5036.82] We'll be a church ready for you every night -[5036.82 --> 5039.98] Longing for our King -[5039.98 --> 5044.76] We sing even so far -[5044.76 --> 5048.64] Lord Jesus come -[5048.64 --> 5053.04] Even so come -[5053.04 --> 5058.22] Lord Jesus come -[5058.22 --> 5061.64] There will be justice -[5061.64 --> 5063.64] All will be new -[5063.64 --> 5065.64] Your name forever -[5065.64 --> 5067.52] Faithful and true -[5067.52 --> 5072.52] Jesus is coming soon -[5072.52 --> 5074.40] Soon -[5074.40 --> 5081.34] Like a bride waiting for her groom -[5081.34 --> 5086.40] We'll be a church ready for you every night -[5086.40 --> 5089.52] Longing for our King -[5089.52 --> 5093.40] We sing even so come -[5093.40 --> 5097.28] Lord Jesus come -[5097.28 --> 5102.22] Even so come -[5102.22 --> 5106.28] Lord Jesus come -[5106.28 --> 5110.28] So we wait -[5110.28 --> 5114.28] We wait for you -[5114.28 --> 5118.16] God we wait -[5118.16 --> 5122.16] You're coming soon -[5122.16 --> 5126.40] So we wait -[5126.40 --> 5130.16] We wait for you -[5130.16 --> 5134.16] God we wait -[5134.16 --> 5138.04] You're coming soon -[5138.04 --> 5140.04] You're coming soon -[5140.04 --> 5145.94] Like a bride waiting for our groom -[5145.94 --> 5150.98] We'll be a church ready for you every night -[5150.98 --> 5154.04] Longing for our King -[5154.04 --> 5156.04] We sing -[5156.04 --> 5169.92] Like a bride waiting for our King -[5169.92 --> 5171.92] We sing -[5171.92 --> 5174.26] Even so come -[5174.26 --> 5178.38] Lord Jesus come -[5178.38 --> 5182.38] Even so come -[5182.38 --> 5186.08] Lord Jesus come -[5186.08 --> 5190.34] Even so come -[5190.34 --> 5194.38] Lord Jesus come -[5194.38 --> 5222.56] The chasm that lay between us -[5222.56 --> 5228.78] How high the mountain I could not climb -[5228.78 --> 5234.48] In desperation I turned to heaven -[5234.48 --> 5240.96] And spoke your name into the night -[5240.96 --> 5247.22] Then through the darkness your loving kindness -[5247.22 --> 5253.16] Torn through the shadows of my soul -[5253.16 --> 5259.16] The work is finished, the end is written -[5259.16 --> 5265.10] Jesus Christ, my living home -[5265.10 --> 5273.78] Who could imagine so great a mercy -[5273.78 --> 5280.04] What heart could fathom such boundless grace -[5280.04 --> 5285.56] The God of ages stepped down from glory -[5285.56 --> 5291.12] To wear my sin and bear my shame -[5291.12 --> 5296.92] The cross has spoken, I am forgiven -[5296.92 --> 5302.56] The King of Kings calls me His own -[5303.12 --> 5308.36] Beautiful Savior, I'm yours forever -[5308.36 --> 5314.30] Jesus Christ, my living home -[5314.30 --> 5320.80] Hallelujah, praise the one who set me free -[5320.80 --> 5326.42] Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me -[5326.42 --> 5329.22] You have broken every chain -[5329.22 --> 5332.04] There's salvation in your name -[5332.04 --> 5336.36] Jesus Christ, my living home -[5336.36 --> 5364.50] Then came the morning -[5364.50 --> 5367.78] That sealed the promise -[5367.78 --> 5370.44] Your buried body -[5370.44 --> 5373.04] Began to breathe -[5373.04 --> 5376.56] Out of the silence -[5376.56 --> 5379.32] The roaring lion -[5379.32 --> 5381.76] Declared the grave -[5381.76 --> 5384.74] Has no shame on me -[5384.74 --> 5387.78] Then came the morning -[5387.78 --> 5390.74] That sealed the promise -[5390.74 --> 5392.74] Your buried body -[5392.74 --> 5393.74] Your buried body -[5393.74 --> 5395.74] Began to breathe -[5395.74 --> 5399.74] Out of the silence -[5399.74 --> 5401.74] The roaring lion -[5401.74 --> 5404.74] Declared the grave -[5404.74 --> 5407.74] Has no claim on me -[5407.74 --> 5412.74] Jesus, your disavitory -[5412.74 --> 5420.12] Hallelujah, praise the one who set me free -[5420.12 --> 5421.12] Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me -[5421.12 --> 5425.12] Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me -[5425.12 --> 5426.12] Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me -[5426.12 --> 5428.12] You have broken every chain -[5428.12 --> 5431.12] There's salvation in your name -[5431.12 --> 5436.12] Jesus Christ, my living home -[5436.12 --> 5442.12] Hallelujah, praise the one who set me free -[5442.12 --> 5447.12] Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me -[5447.12 --> 5448.12] You have broken every chain -[5448.12 --> 5449.12] You have broken every chain -[5449.12 --> 5450.12] You have broken every chain -[5450.12 --> 5452.12] There's salvation in your name -[5452.12 --> 5454.12] Jesus Christ, my living home -[5454.12 --> 5458.12] Jesus Christ, my living home -[5458.12 --> 5463.12] Jesus Christ, my living home -[5463.12 --> 5468.12] Oh God, you are my living home -[5468.12 --> 5477.12] You have broken every chain -[5477.12 --> 5481.12] You have broken every chain -[5481.12 --> 5485.12] You have broken every chain -[5485.12 --> 5506.12] You have broken every chain -[5506.12 --> 5511.84] I lift my eyes up to the mountains. -[5511.84 --> 5516.12] Where does my help come from? -[5518.20 --> 5529.02] My help comes from you, maker of heaven, creator of the earth. -[5529.02 --> 5540.00] Oh, how I need you, Lord. You are my only home. You're my only friend. -[5542.00 --> 5551.36] So I will pray for you to come and rescue me. Come and give me love. -[5551.36 --> 5563.18] I lift my eyes up to the mountains. Where does my help come from? -[5565.04 --> 5574.36] My help comes from you, maker of heaven, creator of the earth. -[5574.36 --> 5586.36] Oh, how I need you, Lord. You are my only home. You're my only friend. -[5587.98 --> 5597.36] So I will wait for you to come and rescue me. Come and give me life. -[5597.36 --> 5609.54] I lift my eyes up to the mountains. Where does my help come from? -[5609.54 --> 5639.52] I lift my eyes up to the mountains. -[5639.52 --> 5642.52] So unchanging. -[5646.52 --> 5656.52] Ageless one, you're my rock of peace. -[5656.52 --> 5664.64] Lord of all, I depend on you. -[5664.64 --> 5671.64] I call out to you. -[5671.64 --> 5676.64] Again and again. -[5676.64 --> 5681.64] I call out to you. -[5681.64 --> 5685.64] Again and again. -[5685.64 --> 5692.64] You are my rock. -[5692.64 --> 5694.64] You are my rock. -[5694.64 --> 5698.64] In times of trouble. -[5698.64 --> 5699.64] You lift me up. -[5699.64 --> 5703.64] You lift me up. -[5703.64 --> 5707.64] When I hold down. -[5707.64 --> 5711.64] All through the storm. -[5711.64 --> 5721.64] Your love is the anchor. -[5721.64 --> 5722.64] My hope is in you alone. -[5722.64 --> 5728.64] My hope is in you alone. -[5728.64 --> 5729.64] Faithful one, so unchanging. -[5729.64 --> 5730.64] Faithful one, so unchanging. -[5730.64 --> 5735.64] Faithful one, so unchanging. -[5735.64 --> 5742.64] Ageless one, you're my rock of peace. -[5742.64 --> 5749.64] Ageless one, you're my rock of peace. -[5749.64 --> 5750.64] Lord of all, I depend on you. -[5750.64 --> 5751.64] I call out to you. -[5751.64 --> 5752.64] I call out to you. -[5752.64 --> 5756.64] Again and again. -[5756.64 --> 5757.64] I call out to you. -[5757.64 --> 5758.64] I call out to you. -[5758.64 --> 5759.64] Again and again. -[5759.64 --> 5763.64] I call out to you. -[5763.64 --> 5768.64] Again and again. -[5768.64 --> 5771.64] You are my rock. -[5771.64 --> 5778.64] In times of trouble. -[5778.64 --> 5779.64] You lift me up. -[5779.64 --> 5782.64] When I fall down. -[5782.64 --> 5784.64] All through the storm. -[5784.64 --> 5786.64] I call out to you. -[5786.64 --> 5788.64] Again and again. -[5788.64 --> 5791.64] I call out to you. -[5791.64 --> 5793.64] Again and again. -[5793.64 --> 5796.64] You are my rock. -[5796.64 --> 5799.64] In times of trouble. -[5799.64 --> 5802.64] All through the storm. -[5802.64 --> 5811.64] Your love is the anchor. -[5811.64 --> 5819.64] My hope is in you alone. -[5819.64 --> 5823.64] All through the storm. -[5823.64 --> 5832.64] Your love is the anchor. -[5832.64 --> 5840.64] My hope is in you alone. -[5840.64 --> 5855.64] As we conclude our time at the table, I'm going to invite you to stand and we can pray together. -[5855.64 --> 5867.64] Amazing God. -[5867.64 --> 5876.64] You have come into our ordinary everyday lives to set a holy table among us. -[5876.64 --> 5882.64] Filling our plates with the bread of life and our cups with your salvation. -[5882.64 --> 5890.64] Send us out, oh God, with a tender heartedness to touch an ordinary everyday world. -[5890.64 --> 5894.64] With the promise of your holiness and hope. -[5894.64 --> 5896.64] In Jesus name we pray. -[5896.64 --> 5897.64] Amen. -[5897.64 --> 5898.64] Amen. -[5898.64 --> 5904.64] As we go from this place, we go with the blessing of our God. -[5904.64 --> 5910.64] And so I invite you to receive God's blessing for the journey of life and faith ahead. -[5910.64 --> 5915.64] May God go before you to guide you. -[5915.64 --> 5918.64] God go behind you to protect you. -[5918.64 --> 5921.64] God go beneath you to support you. -[5921.64 --> 5923.64] And God go beside you to befriend you. -[5923.64 --> 5925.64] Do not be afraid. -[5925.64 --> 5928.64] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5928.64 --> 5930.64] Do not be afraid. -[5930.64 --> 5935.64] But go in hope to love and serve the Lord. -[5935.64 --> 5936.64] Amen. -[5936.64 --> 5937.64] Amen. -[5937.64 --> 5939.64] Thank you -[5939.64 --> 5942.64] Lord. -[5942.64 --> 5944.64] lantern -[5944.64 --> 5946.64] To the love -[5946.64 --> 5947.64] George -[5947.64 --> 5948.64] 為 -[5948.64 --> 5949.64] eux -[5949.64 --> 5951.32] Thy -[5951.32 --> 5951.64] Ride -[5951.64 --> 5952.42] work -[5952.42 --> 5953.10] They -[5953.10 --> 5953.46] They -[5953.46 --> 5953.58] ignore -[5953.58 --> 5955.48] y -[5955.48 --> 5955.58] law -[5955.58 --> 5957.66] you -[5957.66 --> 5963.38] The -[5963.38 --> 5968.12] Let heaven and nature sing -[5968.12 --> 5971.04] Let heaven and nature sing -[5971.04 --> 5977.26] Let heaven and heaven and nature sing -[5977.26 --> 5982.96] To the earth the Savior reigns -[5982.96 --> 5988.36] Let all their songs and songs -[5988.36 --> 5991.78] Of fields and floods -[5991.78 --> 5994.82] From fields and plains -[5994.82 --> 5997.18] Repeat the sounding joy -[5997.18 --> 6000.06] Repeat the sounding joy -[6000.06 --> 6006.86] Repeat the sounding joy -[6006.86 --> 6013.76] No more let sin and sorrow grow -[6013.76 --> 6018.82] Our thoughts in paths of ground -[6018.82 --> 6025.72] He comes to make His blessings come -[6025.72 --> 6028.48] Far as the curse is found -[6028.48 --> 6031.42] Far as the curse is found -[6031.42 --> 6037.22] Far as, far as the curse is found -[6037.22 --> 6044.80] He rules the world with truth and grace -[6044.80 --> 6049.62] And makes the nations prove -[6049.62 --> 6055.90] The glories of His righteousness -[6055.90 --> 6059.28] And wonders of His love -[6059.28 --> 6063.28] And wonders of His love -[6063.28 --> 6068.96] And wonders of His love -[6068.96 --> 6072.04] God forgive the Lord -[6072.04 --> 6076.72] read the name of the Touched God -[6076.72 --> 6078.78] Look at all their views -[6078.92 --> 6080.42] And is laid to rest -[6080.42 --> 6081.82] Ever -[6081.82 --> 6082.80] Fear -[6083.52 --> 6084.72] Godbli -[6084.72 --> 6085.72] Amen. -[6114.72 --> 6115.72] Amen. diff --git "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 December 17, 2023 (3rd week of Advent 2023)_summary.txt" "b/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 December 17, 2023 (3rd week of Advent 2023)_summary.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 7a9308908dd0a1e47be84c624ee825dc901aec40..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 December 17, 2023 (3rd week of Advent 2023)_summary.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,49 +0,0 @@ -• Thanksgiving for various blessings -• Prayers for comfort and strength during difficult times (loss of loved ones) -• Celebrations of new life and healing (birth, recovery) -• Requests for God's presence and guidance in everyday situations (students, teachers, work) -• A prayer is offered to share love with the community and ask God's Holy Spirit to complete tasks. -• The speaker asks for eyes to be fixed on Jesus, faith, trust, and prayer for God's will and purposes to advance His kingdom. -• The passage references Christmas joy but states that true joy is rooted in something timeless, powerful, and grand: God and Christ Jesus. -• A Bible reading from Isaiah 55:6-13 is referenced, focusing on seeking the Lord while He may be found, calling on Him for mercy and pardon. -• The mountains and hills will burst into song, and the trees of the field will clap their hands in celebration. -• Instead of thorns, God will grow juniper and myrtle, creating an everlasting sign of His renown. -• Biblical joy is not just a feeling resulting from good events, but rather an attitude that God's people can adopt despite circumstances. -• The Bible describes times when people experience joy due to God's bounty and provision (Psalm 65). -• Joy can be seen in nature and human experiences, such as the birth of a child (Proverbs 23). -• Even with sin present, we can still look at creation with wonder and joy. -• Joy is both a feeling and an attitude, and it can be adopted when recognizing what God has done for us. -• Attitude is a state of mind that can be chosen regardless of feelings -• Giving thanks can be done even when not feeling thankful -• Courage is doing what is right despite fear or circumstances -• Joy can be an attitude chosen even in difficult situations -• Scriptures (1 Thessalonians 5:18, Jeremiah 33:10-11) support the idea that joy and thankfulness can be chosen regardless of external circumstances -• Jeremiah writes about Israelites entering a ruined Israel and rejoicing because God is good -• Biblical joy is an attitude adopted despite circumstances, not based on happiness or success -• Psalm 105 describes the Israelites leaving Egypt with rejoicing and shouts of joy despite harsh conditions -• God's people can choose to be joyful in the face of suffering, trusting in His promises -• Isaiah 51 promises everlasting joy for those rescued by the Lord -• The Bible acknowledges sorrow and suffering as real and valid emotions -• Discussing the idea of being both sorrowful and joyful -• Referencing Paul's words in 2 Corinthians 6.10 about living with sorrow yet always rejoicing -• Describing Jesus' experiences of suffering, including persecution and death -• Mentioning periods of intense persecution faced by early Christians -• Noting that some Christians were martyred during this time, including crucifixion and burning alive -• Discussing the idea that joy becomes reasonable when one believes in Jesus' love overcoming death -• Emphasizing that joy is an attitude rooted in Christ -• The significance of Jesus as the beginning of faithfulness and God's coming to fruition -• The hope and joy that Israel had when Jesus was born, bringing deliverance and peace -• The meaning of the gospel as good news, specifically that Jesus lived the life we should have lived and died the death we should have died, but rose from the dead on the third day -• Biblical joy is not a result of something good happening, but an attitude God's people can adopt despite circumstances -• Seeking the Lord and turning to Him for mercy, salvation, and joy -• Comparing earthly suffering with eternal life in heaven -• The assurance that Christ has accomplished His purpose of uniting God with His people through faithfulness -• Difficulty of experiencing joy during difficult circumstances -• Importance of finding joy in Christ, not external factors -• Prayer for joy and rejoicing despite hardships -• Praise and worship song with lyrics emphasizing God's saving power, forgiveness, and joy-giving nature -• Upcoming worship service on O Holy Night at 4pm -• Blessing from God to the listeners -• Recitation of traditional Christmas carol lyrics (Joy to the World) -• Mention of preparation for Jesus' arrival and celebration in heaven and nature singing -• Reference to sin, sorrow, and blessing being replaced by love and salvation \ No newline at end of file diff --git "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 December 17, 2023 (3rd week of Advent 2023)_transcript.txt" "b/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 December 17, 2023 (3rd week of Advent 2023)_transcript.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index ccf3e55b816165510398810162d353dc1f46e478..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 December 17, 2023 (3rd week of Advent 2023)_transcript.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,931 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[299.98 --> 329.96] Thank you. -[329.98 --> 359.96] Thank you. -[359.98 --> 389.96] Thank you. -[389.96 --> 419.94] Thank you. -[419.94 --> 449.92] Thank you. -[449.96 --> 479.92] Thank you. -[479.92 --> 509.92] -[509.92 --> 539.90] Thank you. -[539.90 --> 569.88] Thank you. -[569.88 --> 599.86] Thank you. -[599.86 --> 629.84] Thank you. -[629.84 --> 629.86] -[659.84 --> 689.82] Thank you. -[689.82 --> 719.80] Thank you. -[719.82 --> 749.80] Thank you. -[749.82 --> 779.80] Thank you. -[779.82 --> 809.80] Thank you. -[809.82 --> 839.80] Thank you. -[839.80 --> 869.78] Thank you. -[869.78 --> 899.76] Thank you. -[899.78 --> 929.76] Thank you. -[929.78 --> 959.76] Thank you. -[959.78 --> 989.76] Thank you. -[989.78 --> 1019.76] Thank you. -[1019.78 --> 1049.76] Thank you. -[1049.78 --> 1079.76] Thank you. -[1079.78 --> 1109.76] Thank you. -[1109.78 --> 1139.76] Thank you. -[1139.78 --> 1169.76] Thank you. -[1169.78 --> 1199.76] Thank you. -[1199.78 --> 1229.76] Thank you. -[1229.78 --> 1259.76] Thank you. -[1259.78 --> 1289.76] Thank you. -[1289.78 --> 1319.76] Thank you. -[1319.78 --> 1349.76] Thank you. -[1349.78 --> 1379.76] Thank you. -[1379.78 --> 1409.76] Thank you. -[1409.78 --> 1439.78] Thank you. -[1439.78 --> 1469.76] Thank you. -[1469.78 --> 1499.78] Thank you. -[1499.78 --> 1529.76] Thank you. -[1529.78 --> 1559.76] Thank you. -[1559.78 --> 1589.76] Thank you. -[1589.78 --> 1619.76] Thank you. -[1619.78 --> 1649.76] Thank you. -[1649.78 --> 1679.76] Thank you. -[1679.78 --> 1709.76] Thank you. -[1709.78 --> 1739.76] Thank you. -[1739.78 --> 1769.76] Thank you. -[1769.78 --> 1799.76] Thank you. -[1799.78 --> 1829.76] Thank you. -[1829.78 --> 1859.76] Thank you. -[1859.78 --> 1889.76] Thank you. -[1889.78 --> 1919.76] Thank you. -[1919.78 --> 1949.76] Thank you. -[1949.78 --> 1979.76] There is joy. -[1979.78 --> 2009.76] There is love, there is -[2009.78 --> 2039.76] Please be, you. -[2039.76 --> 2069.74] Thank you. -[2069.74 --> 2099.72] Do not forget to do good, do not forget, do not forget, do not forget, do not forget, -[2099.72 --> 2129.70] I love you. -[2129.72 --> 2159.70] Thank you. -[2159.72 --> 2189.70] Thank you. -[2189.72 --> 2219.70] Thank you. -[2219.70 --> 2249.68] Thank you. -[2249.70 --> 2279.68] Thank you. -[2279.70 --> 2309.68] Thank you. -[2309.70 --> 2339.68] Thank you. -[2339.70 --> 2369.68] All right. -[2369.68 --> 2399.66] Thank you. -[2399.68 --> 2429.66] Thank you. -[2429.66 --> 2459.64] Thank you. -[2459.66 --> 2489.66] All right. -[2489.66 --> 2519.64] You're welcome. -[2519.64 --> 2549.62] A couple of you. -[2549.62 --> 2579.62] Thank you. -[2579.62 --> 2609.60] Thank you. -[2609.60 --> 2639.58] Thank you. -[2639.58 --> 2669.56] Thank you. -[2669.58 --> 2699.56] Father in heaven. -[2699.56 --> 2729.54] And yet, you're with us. -[2729.54 --> 2759.52] Thank you. -[2759.52 --> 2789.50] And this, I'll, we'll make you, we'll bring us, you will, and you're with us, and in the -[2789.50 --> 2798.00] We ask that you will continue to be with and give strength and comfort to Brenda, Linda, and Jody and their families as they remember their mom, Tini. -[2801.72 --> 2806.68] We pray for Tanya and Samara and their family as they remember their grandma. -[2809.38 --> 2815.60] We especially remember all those who have lost loved ones recently, and even if it hasn't been recently, -[2815.60 --> 2822.42] Christmas can be a difficult time when we think of those who have gone before us. -[2825.38 --> 2830.52] We thank you for the new baby in the lives of David and Sheila and their families, -[2831.04 --> 2839.04] and we pray that you will help them raise her up to be what you want her to be. -[2839.54 --> 2844.02] Help Abba to grow strong in the knowledge that you are her Savior. -[2846.50 --> 2851.62] We thank you that Jerry Jansen's daughter and her granddaughter were both able to receive healing. -[2853.14 --> 2857.32] We pray that you will continue to be with them so that they can get stronger. -[2857.32 --> 2866.90] We thank you for healing in the life of Dennis, and we pray that you will help him deal with his new reality. -[2869.36 --> 2875.78] We pray that you will be with students and teachers in this last week leading up to the end of the school year. -[2875.78 --> 2883.92] Lord, we ask that you will be with those who are underemployed or looking for work, -[2884.28 --> 2889.02] and we pray for comfort and patience in the realities of this economy. -[2889.02 --> 2896.66] Lord, we ask that you will continue to help this church to gather in your name, -[2897.32 --> 2902.44] to grow in the knowledge that you are with us and saved us from our sins. -[2903.30 --> 2908.48] Help us to go out into the community around us and share your love. -[2908.48 --> 2913.84] Father, we pray, hear us. -[2915.10 --> 2917.12] Look upon the list of our concerns. -[2918.18 --> 2920.90] We know that you knew it before we wrote it down, -[2921.06 --> 2926.00] and we know that you know us better than us -[2926.00 --> 2932.20] and must be prayed in each of these circumstances. -[2934.92 --> 2939.36] We ask that your Holy Spirit completes all these things for us. -[2941.62 --> 2944.94] As we hear your word for us this morning, preached by Josh, -[2945.56 --> 2950.42] fulfill your will and purposes among us by your Holy Spirit -[2950.42 --> 2956.38] so that your kingdom will advance through us and your Holy Name is glorified. -[2957.38 --> 2963.28] The story of amazing love, the light of the world given for us. -[2964.88 --> 2967.86] Father, we pray that our eyes would be fixed on Jesus. -[2968.50 --> 2970.06] We pray that by your Spirit, -[2970.96 --> 2975.86] you might bring into our hearts to believe and to trust in you. -[2975.86 --> 2980.70] We pray for all these things because of your Holy Name. -[2981.46 --> 2981.82] Amen. -[2981.82 --> 2981.94] Amen. -[2999.82 --> 3000.72] I think I figured out. -[3001.42 --> 3001.82] Mike. -[3003.24 --> 3004.70] I don't think I've used this one before. -[3004.70 --> 3006.16] Oh, there we go. -[3006.66 --> 3006.90] Haha. -[3007.24 --> 3008.44] Tech specialist. -[3009.50 --> 3010.06] Got it. -[3011.68 --> 3012.26] Let's pray. -[3014.40 --> 3016.70] Dear Lord, thank you for this wonderful day -[3016.70 --> 3018.42] in which we get to hear your word. -[3019.00 --> 3022.70] I pray, Lord, that my words would not be my own, but yours, -[3023.48 --> 3025.74] and that we would all experience the joy of the Lord -[3025.74 --> 3029.12] as a result of your word, your gospel. -[3029.92 --> 3030.12] Amen. -[3030.12 --> 3030.20] Amen. -[3034.70 --> 3036.84] Joy to the world. -[3037.16 --> 3038.68] The joy of Christmas. -[3039.22 --> 3041.08] Joyful, joyful, we adore you. -[3041.58 --> 3043.16] I've got the Christmas joy, -[3044.16 --> 3046.10] says the one wearing all black. -[3048.16 --> 3050.42] Joy is one of those feelings and words -[3050.42 --> 3052.74] that goes part and parcel with Christmas. -[3052.74 --> 3055.80] People feel joy in other times of the year, -[3055.80 --> 3059.20] but Christmas has a specific hold on that word. -[3059.70 --> 3063.80] It's so easy for joy to be portrayed as the feeling we get -[3063.80 --> 3067.76] when we see pretty lights or when we see family at Christmas parties -[3067.76 --> 3070.84] or when you're driving back home from the Christmas service -[3070.84 --> 3072.52] and the snow is gently drifting down. -[3072.52 --> 3076.52] Or, of course, that feeling when you wake up in the morning as a kid -[3076.52 --> 3078.62] and you see your presents by the tree. -[3080.06 --> 3083.46] The joy we focus on at Christmas, as I mentioned, -[3083.60 --> 3085.16] comes and goes with the weather -[3085.16 --> 3087.26] or it comes and goes with a set of cookies. -[3088.08 --> 3090.08] This version of joy is a good thing. -[3093.04 --> 3094.66] But the joy of Advent, -[3095.14 --> 3097.12] the joy of the Bible is so much deeper -[3097.12 --> 3099.22] and it's rooted in something -[3099.22 --> 3100.96] that does not come and go. -[3101.44 --> 3102.78] It's rooted in something timeless -[3102.78 --> 3103.98] and ever-present. -[3104.44 --> 3106.08] It is rooted in something powerful -[3106.08 --> 3107.62] and grand beyond measure. -[3108.06 --> 3109.18] It is rooted in God, -[3109.78 --> 3110.54] in Christ Jesus. -[3111.46 --> 3113.98] This joy rooted in Jesus -[3113.98 --> 3116.28] and grounded in our future hope -[3116.28 --> 3118.16] is what our passage is about today. -[3118.66 --> 3120.04] So please, open up your Bibles -[3120.04 --> 3123.58] or your phones to Isaiah 55, 6-13. -[3124.08 --> 3125.92] The passage will also be on the screen above. -[3125.92 --> 3128.00] So please follow along. -[3132.64 --> 3134.70] Seek the Lord while He may be found. -[3135.36 --> 3136.84] Call on Him while He is near. -[3137.58 --> 3139.16] Let the wicked forsake their ways -[3139.16 --> 3140.84] and the unrighteous their thoughts. -[3141.54 --> 3142.82] Let them turn to the Lord -[3142.82 --> 3144.38] and He will have mercy on them. -[3144.88 --> 3145.76] And to our God, -[3146.04 --> 3147.20] for He will freely pardon. -[3148.34 --> 3149.96] For my thoughts are not your thoughts, -[3150.26 --> 3152.00] neither are your ways my ways, -[3152.66 --> 3153.42] declares the Lord. -[3153.94 --> 3155.64] As the heavens are higher than the earth, -[3156.16 --> 3157.84] so are my ways higher than your ways -[3157.84 --> 3159.66] and my thoughts than your thoughts. -[3160.20 --> 3162.76] As the rain and the snow come down from heaven -[3162.76 --> 3165.42] and do not return to it without watering the earth -[3165.42 --> 3166.56] and making it blood, -[3167.18 --> 3168.32] bud and flourish, -[3168.64 --> 3170.46] so that it yields seed for the sower -[3170.46 --> 3171.46] and bread for the eater, -[3172.22 --> 3174.24] so is my word that goes out from my mouth. -[3174.58 --> 3176.12] It will not return to me empty, -[3176.12 --> 3178.34] but will accomplish what I desire -[3178.34 --> 3180.40] and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. -[3181.04 --> 3182.22] You will go out in joy -[3182.22 --> 3183.76] and be led forth in peace. -[3184.28 --> 3185.78] The mountains and the hills -[3185.78 --> 3187.76] will burst into song before you -[3187.76 --> 3189.50] and all of the trees of the field -[3189.50 --> 3190.54] will clap their hands. -[3191.62 --> 3192.72] Instead of the thorn bush, -[3192.80 --> 3193.68] I will grow the juniper. -[3194.28 --> 3195.20] Instead of the briars, -[3195.32 --> 3196.12] the myrtle will grow. -[3196.12 --> 3198.58] This will be for the Lord's renown -[3198.58 --> 3200.16] for an everlasting sign -[3200.16 --> 3201.70] that will endure forever. -[3206.44 --> 3207.90] Our passage today -[3207.90 --> 3209.36] is about the future hope -[3209.36 --> 3210.92] of a world made right, -[3211.40 --> 3212.80] about a garden returned -[3212.80 --> 3214.00] to its proper state -[3214.00 --> 3216.00] and the Lord being with His people -[3216.00 --> 3217.48] on earth once again. -[3218.32 --> 3220.10] This passage is about the joy -[3220.10 --> 3222.86] of finally having everything right, -[3222.86 --> 3226.94] of not having the things brought in by sin -[3226.94 --> 3227.72] get in the way. -[3228.38 --> 3229.70] Or as Pastor Chris put it -[3229.70 --> 3230.84] in the first Sunday of Advent, -[3231.30 --> 3233.30] when there is peace, shalom. -[3234.80 --> 3236.14] But we're not there yet. -[3236.44 --> 3237.78] And the Bible has a lot to say -[3237.78 --> 3238.66] about the kind of joy -[3238.66 --> 3240.20] that we can have here and now. -[3241.04 --> 3242.94] That as that future joy -[3242.94 --> 3244.32] works backwards through history -[3244.32 --> 3245.48] to this present moment. -[3247.16 --> 3248.54] Our big idea today -[3248.54 --> 3249.78] is that biblical joy -[3249.78 --> 3251.44] is not the result -[3251.44 --> 3252.50] of something good happening. -[3252.86 --> 3254.94] but an attitude God's people -[3254.94 --> 3255.80] can adopt -[3255.80 --> 3258.20] despite whatever happens. -[3260.72 --> 3262.00] Now that being said, -[3262.36 --> 3263.32] when something good happens, -[3263.40 --> 3265.64] it is good to feel joy. -[3266.24 --> 3267.70] And the Bible is filled with times -[3267.70 --> 3268.58] in which people are. -[3269.28 --> 3270.96] Psalm 65, 11 to 12. -[3271.38 --> 3272.96] You crown the year with your bounty -[3272.96 --> 3275.10] and your carts overflow with abundance. -[3275.50 --> 3277.60] The grasslands of the wilderness overflow. -[3278.26 --> 3280.36] The hills are clothed with gladness. -[3280.64 --> 3282.04] The meadows are covered with flocks -[3282.04 --> 3283.60] and the valleys are mantled with grain. -[3283.92 --> 3285.70] They shout for joy and sing. -[3286.94 --> 3289.42] Nature itself sings and shouts in joy -[3289.42 --> 3290.68] to the God that made it. -[3291.04 --> 3292.44] The animals and plants -[3292.44 --> 3294.76] and the very earth are glad -[3294.76 --> 3296.78] because of the richness of creation. -[3296.78 --> 3301.86] And Psalm 104, 14 to 15 says, -[3301.86 --> 3303.56] He makes grass grow for the cattle -[3303.56 --> 3305.22] and plants for the people to cultivate, -[3305.88 --> 3307.46] bringing forth food from the earth -[3307.46 --> 3310.24] and wine that gladdens the human heart, -[3310.78 --> 3312.28] oil to make their faces shine -[3312.28 --> 3314.52] and bread that sustains their hearts. -[3315.32 --> 3316.48] Not only nature, -[3316.56 --> 3318.60] but also humanity is filled with joy -[3318.60 --> 3320.52] because of the world in which God has made. -[3321.04 --> 3322.80] He has provided everything we need -[3322.80 --> 3323.42] and more. -[3324.70 --> 3327.20] And third, Proverbs 23, 24 to 25. -[3327.68 --> 3329.82] The father of a righteous child has great joy. -[3330.34 --> 3332.78] A man who fathers a wise son rejoices in him. -[3334.02 --> 3335.56] May your father and mother rejoice. -[3335.94 --> 3337.60] May she who gave you birth be joyful. -[3338.56 --> 3340.56] When we see the miracle of new life, -[3340.62 --> 3342.18] it's not just the parents who are joyful, -[3342.40 --> 3344.88] but also the people who see how joyful they are. -[3345.42 --> 3346.60] When a new baby is born, -[3346.76 --> 3347.98] everyone here goes crazy -[3347.98 --> 3350.24] and flocks around it and starts smiling. -[3350.42 --> 3351.10] It's wonderful. -[3353.58 --> 3355.08] When God blesses us -[3355.08 --> 3358.04] and when we realize how greatly we are blessed -[3358.04 --> 3358.72] in this world, -[3358.80 --> 3360.06] we should feel joy. -[3361.34 --> 3363.78] We should respond with glee and gratefulness. -[3364.02 --> 3366.10] Even with sin marring creation -[3366.10 --> 3367.34] and blurring our vision, -[3367.80 --> 3370.56] we can still look at mountains and forests -[3370.56 --> 3372.26] and the ocean and the night sky -[3372.26 --> 3374.44] with wonder and joy. -[3374.44 --> 3374.52] Joy. -[3378.72 --> 3379.20] But, -[3379.92 --> 3381.56] joy is not just a feeling. -[3382.26 --> 3383.28] It's also an attitude. -[3384.42 --> 3385.70] And joy can be our attitude -[3385.70 --> 3387.76] when we experience what God has done -[3387.76 --> 3389.42] for us and gives us. -[3390.80 --> 3392.82] Now, feelings and attitudes are slightly different. -[3393.42 --> 3394.58] A feeling is a reaction -[3394.58 --> 3396.32] or a response to something that happens -[3396.32 --> 3397.04] or doesn't happen. -[3398.30 --> 3400.08] And an attitude is a state of mind -[3400.08 --> 3401.32] that you can choose to take -[3401.32 --> 3403.22] regardless of what you feel. -[3404.44 --> 3405.50] Here are two examples. -[3406.20 --> 3406.90] The first example -[3406.90 --> 3408.54] is we don't always feel thankful. -[3409.60 --> 3411.04] We might feel that there is nothing -[3411.04 --> 3411.88] to be thankful for. -[3412.62 --> 3414.46] But in moments where we don't feel thankful, -[3414.64 --> 3416.00] we can still give thanks -[3416.00 --> 3417.10] in all circumstances. -[3417.90 --> 3419.40] 1 Thessalonians 5.18 -[3419.40 --> 3421.60] That passage doesn't command us -[3421.60 --> 3422.48] to feel thankful, -[3423.34 --> 3424.62] just to give thanks. -[3425.58 --> 3426.16] And specifically, -[3426.34 --> 3427.26] to give thanks to God -[3427.26 --> 3428.40] for what He has done. -[3429.80 --> 3431.78] The second example is this. -[3431.78 --> 3433.10] When Joshua was given -[3433.10 --> 3434.12] the mantle of leadership -[3434.12 --> 3436.02] over Israel going into Canaan, -[3436.78 --> 3438.04] God gave him a pep talk. -[3438.96 --> 3439.78] God tells Joshua -[3439.78 --> 3441.16] to be strong and courageous, -[3441.62 --> 3442.86] do not be afraid, -[3443.38 --> 3444.44] and to be courageous. -[3445.70 --> 3447.42] Now, if Joshua wasn't afraid -[3447.42 --> 3448.18] at the prospect -[3448.18 --> 3449.30] of leading the Israelites, -[3449.62 --> 3451.08] who he knows are fickle -[3451.08 --> 3452.00] and disobedient, -[3452.96 --> 3454.30] and even to lead them -[3454.30 --> 3456.04] into battle against trained armies, -[3456.62 --> 3457.76] then he wouldn't need -[3457.76 --> 3458.42] to be courageous -[3458.42 --> 3460.10] because he would be confident. -[3460.74 --> 3461.36] He might even have -[3461.36 --> 3462.70] a complete sense of assurance. -[3463.96 --> 3464.96] Courage is doing something -[3464.96 --> 3465.64] you know you should -[3465.64 --> 3466.92] even when you are afraid. -[3467.40 --> 3468.34] And God commands him -[3468.34 --> 3469.12] to be courageous, -[3469.74 --> 3473.40] considering the fearful odds -[3473.40 --> 3475.44] solely because God is with him, -[3475.86 --> 3477.30] despite how he feels, -[3477.46 --> 3478.56] because of what God will do -[3478.56 --> 3479.42] and has done. -[3480.28 --> 3481.26] Joshua could take on -[3481.26 --> 3482.50] that attitude of courage. -[3484.74 --> 3486.24] Just like how Thessalonians -[3486.24 --> 3486.80] teaches us -[3486.80 --> 3487.56] that we can give thanks -[3487.56 --> 3488.54] when we don't feel thankful, -[3489.08 --> 3490.36] and how Joshua teaches us -[3490.36 --> 3491.42] that we can be courageous -[3491.42 --> 3492.40] in the face of terror, -[3493.84 --> 3497.00] we can do the same with joy. -[3497.70 --> 3499.18] We can choose to be joyful -[3499.18 --> 3500.56] when we don't feel like it. -[3501.50 --> 3502.16] Not only that, -[3502.26 --> 3503.48] joy can be our attitude -[3503.48 --> 3505.44] when we lack everything -[3505.44 --> 3506.58] and suffer. -[3507.28 --> 3508.36] Even when we have -[3508.36 --> 3509.96] every reason not to be joyful, -[3510.22 --> 3511.48] we can still take on -[3511.48 --> 3512.10] that attitude. -[3513.52 --> 3515.54] Jeremiah 33, 10-11 says, -[3515.54 --> 3517.32] This is what the Lord says. -[3518.06 --> 3519.16] You say about this place, -[3519.28 --> 3520.56] it is a desolate waste, -[3520.96 --> 3522.46] without people or animals. -[3522.86 --> 3524.04] Yet in the towns of Judah -[3524.04 --> 3525.22] and the streets of Jerusalem -[3525.22 --> 3525.96] that are deserted, -[3526.52 --> 3527.54] inhabited by neither people -[3527.54 --> 3528.18] nor animals, -[3528.34 --> 3529.92] there will be heard once more -[3529.92 --> 3531.56] the sounds of joy -[3531.56 --> 3532.80] and gladness. -[3533.24 --> 3534.34] The voices of bride -[3534.34 --> 3535.04] and bridegroom, -[3535.14 --> 3535.90] the voices of those -[3535.90 --> 3537.08] who bring thank offerings -[3537.08 --> 3538.40] to the house of the Lord, -[3538.78 --> 3539.06] saying, -[3539.20 --> 3540.60] Give thanks to the Lord Almighty, -[3541.10 --> 3541.94] for the Lord is good. -[3542.04 --> 3543.84] His love endures forever. -[3543.84 --> 3545.58] For I will restore -[3545.58 --> 3546.80] the fortunes of the land -[3546.80 --> 3547.82] as they were before, -[3548.16 --> 3548.74] says the Lord. -[3551.06 --> 3552.56] Why are the Israelites rejoicing -[3552.56 --> 3553.90] if the streets are desolate -[3553.90 --> 3554.64] and waste, -[3555.16 --> 3556.94] and they're poor beyond measure? -[3557.58 --> 3559.52] Because the Lord is good, -[3559.94 --> 3561.46] and His love endures forever, -[3562.40 --> 3563.68] and that future promise. -[3564.80 --> 3565.38] Tim Mackey, -[3565.70 --> 3566.60] the guy who was speaking -[3566.60 --> 3567.50] in the video before, -[3567.98 --> 3568.22] said, -[3568.46 --> 3569.50] The joy of God's people -[3569.50 --> 3570.16] is not determined -[3570.16 --> 3571.16] by their circumstances, -[3571.62 --> 3573.30] but rather their future destiny. -[3574.54 --> 3575.16] The Israelites, -[3575.40 --> 3576.56] Jeremiah is writing about, -[3576.64 --> 3577.94] are going to enter Israel -[3577.94 --> 3579.00] and see the temple -[3579.00 --> 3579.80] and Jerusalem -[3579.80 --> 3582.12] in ruins and overgrown, -[3582.50 --> 3584.18] and yet they will rejoice -[3584.18 --> 3585.80] because God is good, -[3586.28 --> 3586.96] and one day, -[3587.20 --> 3588.32] by His faithful promise, -[3588.46 --> 3589.48] Jerusalem and the temple -[3589.48 --> 3590.40] will be rebuilt. -[3591.92 --> 3592.34] Remember, -[3593.08 --> 3594.24] biblical joy is not a result -[3594.24 --> 3595.28] of something good happening, -[3595.66 --> 3596.50] but an attitude -[3596.50 --> 3597.66] God's people can adopt -[3597.66 --> 3599.54] despite whatever happens. -[3599.54 --> 3605.18] Now, -[3605.24 --> 3606.04] before the Israelites -[3606.04 --> 3607.08] of Jeremiah's time, -[3607.32 --> 3607.96] there were the Israelites -[3607.96 --> 3608.96] leaving Egypt. -[3609.86 --> 3610.30] Psalm 105, -[3610.60 --> 3611.38] 43 says, -[3611.74 --> 3612.70] He brought out His people -[3612.70 --> 3613.70] with rejoicing, -[3614.12 --> 3615.02] His chosen ones -[3615.02 --> 3616.10] with shouts of joy. -[3617.36 --> 3618.52] They were in a desert -[3618.52 --> 3619.44] with only the food -[3619.44 --> 3621.08] in their bags, -[3621.28 --> 3622.26] and with no army -[3622.26 --> 3623.02] to protect them, -[3623.38 --> 3624.44] and the east wind -[3624.44 --> 3625.74] was beating on their heads. -[3626.06 --> 3627.20] It was miserable, -[3627.20 --> 3631.08] but God had been faithful -[3631.08 --> 3632.42] to take them out of Egypt -[3632.42 --> 3633.54] and would be faithful -[3633.54 --> 3634.06] to bring them -[3634.06 --> 3635.90] into that future promised land, -[3636.18 --> 3637.70] and so they walked -[3637.70 --> 3639.12] with shouts of joy. -[3640.04 --> 3641.14] God would provide for them -[3641.14 --> 3642.30] food in quail -[3642.30 --> 3643.82] and water from a rock, -[3644.02 --> 3645.92] and God would provide them -[3645.92 --> 3648.28] victory as their army. -[3649.90 --> 3651.42] In the face of terror -[3651.42 --> 3652.14] and suffering, -[3652.30 --> 3653.36] God's people can choose -[3653.36 --> 3654.26] to be joyful, -[3654.78 --> 3656.14] and when those future promises -[3656.14 --> 3656.84] do come, -[3657.20 --> 3658.66] they will not only adopt -[3658.66 --> 3659.72] the attitude of joy, -[3659.94 --> 3661.32] but they can feel it. -[3662.28 --> 3663.40] Isaiah 51, 11, -[3663.88 --> 3665.18] Those the Lord has rescued -[3665.18 --> 3666.00] will return. -[3666.42 --> 3667.60] They will enter Zion -[3667.60 --> 3668.34] with singing. -[3668.84 --> 3669.84] Everlasting joy -[3669.84 --> 3671.08] will crown their heads. -[3671.60 --> 3672.72] Gladness and joy -[3672.72 --> 3673.70] will overtake them, -[3673.94 --> 3675.50] and sorrow and sighing -[3675.50 --> 3676.58] will flee away. -[3676.58 --> 3686.02] Flip the page too quick. -[3690.02 --> 3691.38] Now some might say, -[3692.04 --> 3693.42] what about the sorrow -[3693.42 --> 3694.40] and the suffering -[3694.40 --> 3695.66] that I experience? -[3696.30 --> 3697.28] I have good reason -[3697.28 --> 3697.94] to be sad, -[3698.80 --> 3700.36] or suffering -[3700.36 --> 3700.90] is not something -[3700.90 --> 3701.80] that I can just smile -[3701.80 --> 3702.96] or wave my way through. -[3702.96 --> 3706.24] This pain is unrelenting. -[3706.24 --> 3707.74] I can't just ignore that. -[3708.54 --> 3710.26] Is my pain not valid? -[3712.36 --> 3713.52] And to that I say, -[3713.60 --> 3714.70] absolutely it is. -[3715.36 --> 3716.78] The sorrow and the suffering -[3716.78 --> 3717.98] we experience now -[3717.98 --> 3719.62] is not something -[3719.62 --> 3720.80] that I would ever say -[3720.80 --> 3722.86] is not real -[3722.86 --> 3723.86] or big -[3723.86 --> 3724.68] or overwhelming. -[3725.72 --> 3726.18] Suffering -[3726.18 --> 3726.92] and pain -[3726.92 --> 3727.68] and grief -[3727.68 --> 3728.44] and loss -[3728.44 --> 3729.26] are real -[3729.26 --> 3730.40] and deep. -[3730.40 --> 3732.36] and in no way am I, -[3732.64 --> 3733.68] nor is the Bible saying, -[3734.28 --> 3735.56] just dismiss how you feel -[3735.56 --> 3737.38] or turn that frown -[3737.38 --> 3738.12] upside down -[3738.12 --> 3739.10] as if it was something -[3739.10 --> 3740.52] that you could just be decided. -[3741.66 --> 3742.06] No. -[3742.74 --> 3743.70] On the contrary, -[3743.86 --> 3744.86] the Bible affirms -[3744.86 --> 3745.94] our pain and suffering -[3745.94 --> 3747.18] and even affirms -[3747.18 --> 3748.88] this mysterious middle ground -[3748.88 --> 3750.02] where we can be -[3750.02 --> 3750.96] both sorrowful -[3750.96 --> 3751.84] and joyful. -[3753.58 --> 3754.26] Paul writes -[3754.26 --> 3755.90] from prison -[3755.90 --> 3757.00] saying these words, -[3757.38 --> 3759.30] 2 Corinthians 6.10, -[3759.30 --> 3760.78] sorrowful -[3760.78 --> 3762.44] yet always rejoicing, -[3763.04 --> 3763.44] poor -[3763.44 --> 3765.06] yet making many rich, -[3765.50 --> 3766.58] having nothing -[3766.58 --> 3768.76] and yet possessing everything. -[3770.32 --> 3771.26] Paul feels -[3771.26 --> 3771.98] the sorrow -[3771.98 --> 3772.84] and the pain -[3772.84 --> 3774.46] of lived suffering, -[3775.02 --> 3775.68] shipwrecked, -[3775.84 --> 3776.86] attacked by animals, -[3777.10 --> 3777.60] imprisoned -[3777.60 --> 3779.30] and beaten by crowds -[3779.30 --> 3781.34] and yet also rejoices -[3781.34 --> 3782.14] in the truth -[3782.14 --> 3783.02] of God's goodness -[3783.02 --> 3784.46] and faithfulness. -[3785.02 --> 3785.72] And even Jesus -[3785.72 --> 3786.54] who is referred to -[3786.54 --> 3786.96] in Isaiah -[3786.96 --> 3788.24] as the man of sorrow -[3788.24 --> 3789.82] in Luke 2.10 -[3789.82 --> 3791.40] can be full of joy -[3791.40 --> 3792.28] in the Holy Spirit -[3792.28 --> 3793.16] for what his father -[3793.16 --> 3793.78] has done -[3793.78 --> 3795.46] even with his own -[3795.46 --> 3796.44] persecution and death -[3796.44 --> 3796.88] on the way. -[3799.82 --> 3801.02] In the early church, -[3801.46 --> 3802.14] a period of about -[3802.14 --> 3803.38] 350 years -[3803.38 --> 3804.72] after Jesus' death, -[3805.26 --> 3805.94] the church faced -[3805.94 --> 3806.52] persecution -[3806.52 --> 3807.18] and hardship -[3807.18 --> 3808.48] and some moments -[3808.48 --> 3809.12] within this period -[3809.12 --> 3809.64] the persecution -[3809.64 --> 3811.68] was much more vicious -[3811.68 --> 3812.52] and thorough. -[3813.52 --> 3814.84] In 64 A.D. -[3814.84 --> 3815.72] the persecution -[3815.72 --> 3816.50] got so bad -[3816.50 --> 3817.00] under Nero -[3817.00 --> 3817.80] that he blamed -[3817.80 --> 3818.26] the Christians -[3818.26 --> 3819.28] for the fire of Rome. -[3820.08 --> 3821.00] His solution -[3821.00 --> 3821.80] was to use -[3821.80 --> 3823.30] the Christians -[3823.30 --> 3824.04] that he blamed -[3824.04 --> 3825.00] as gladiators -[3825.00 --> 3825.78] and for sport -[3825.78 --> 3826.96] and worst of all -[3826.96 --> 3828.00] many were crucified -[3828.00 --> 3829.64] and set on fire -[3829.64 --> 3830.84] to light the city streets -[3830.84 --> 3831.26] at night. -[3835.04 --> 3836.88] Amidst all of this suffering -[3836.88 --> 3838.82] the countless records -[3838.82 --> 3839.60] of Christians -[3839.60 --> 3841.02] and Romans alike -[3841.02 --> 3842.26] show that Christians -[3842.26 --> 3843.52] would walk into this -[3843.52 --> 3845.16] and other horrifying moments -[3845.16 --> 3847.22] with songs of joy -[3847.22 --> 3849.70] because they knew -[3849.70 --> 3850.84] that the future glory -[3850.84 --> 3852.54] that future with Jesus -[3852.54 --> 3855.46] was so indescribably greater -[3855.46 --> 3856.20] than what they were -[3856.20 --> 3857.02] about to endure. -[3858.16 --> 3859.26] As Tim Mackey -[3859.26 --> 3860.68] again says so well -[3860.68 --> 3861.78] when you believe -[3861.78 --> 3862.94] that Jesus' love -[3862.94 --> 3865.02] has overcome death itself -[3865.02 --> 3866.96] joy becomes reasonable -[3866.96 --> 3868.66] in the darkest circumstance. -[3869.30 --> 3870.50] Even though it can be -[3870.50 --> 3872.06] so dark and horrible -[3872.06 --> 3874.56] as to the point of death -[3874.56 --> 3876.20] you can remember -[3876.20 --> 3877.36] that death itself -[3877.36 --> 3878.94] was defeated by Christ -[3878.94 --> 3879.72] on the cross -[3879.72 --> 3880.66] and in the grave. -[3881.34 --> 3882.30] And this is because -[3882.30 --> 3883.96] joy can only be our attitude -[3883.96 --> 3885.06] because of Christ. -[3885.42 --> 3886.92] In him we have everything -[3886.92 --> 3889.16] and he has done everything. -[3889.94 --> 3890.66] This acknowledgement -[3890.66 --> 3891.54] of Christ being -[3891.54 --> 3892.44] the root of our joy -[3892.44 --> 3893.74] is why the birth of Jesus -[3893.74 --> 3895.08] in Luke 2.10 says -[3895.08 --> 3896.80] but the angel said to them -[3896.80 --> 3897.94] do not be afraid. -[3898.76 --> 3899.72] I bring you good news -[3899.72 --> 3900.86] that will cause great joy -[3900.86 --> 3902.10] for all the people. -[3904.00 --> 3905.44] The incarnation of Jesus -[3905.44 --> 3906.26] was the beginning -[3906.26 --> 3907.30] of that faithfulness -[3907.30 --> 3908.34] God is so famous -[3908.34 --> 3909.72] for coming to fruition. -[3910.56 --> 3911.50] He was the thing -[3911.50 --> 3912.28] that ancient Israel -[3912.28 --> 3913.42] had their joy rooted in. -[3913.92 --> 3914.82] The future destiny -[3914.82 --> 3916.12] had finally arrived. -[3916.60 --> 3917.40] The future city -[3917.40 --> 3918.14] that is currently -[3918.14 --> 3918.98] under construction -[3918.98 --> 3920.50] was starting to be unveiled. -[3921.14 --> 3922.92] That bread that brings life -[3922.92 --> 3924.34] and the wine that makes glad -[3924.34 --> 3925.22] the hearts of men -[3925.22 --> 3926.82] was finally here. -[3927.56 --> 3928.74] This baby was the reason -[3928.74 --> 3930.20] Israel shouted for joy -[3930.20 --> 3931.20] in the desert waste -[3931.20 --> 3932.00] leaving Egypt. -[3932.90 --> 3934.16] Deliverance had arrived. -[3934.62 --> 3935.78] Peace has come. -[3936.34 --> 3937.72] The hope was now real -[3937.72 --> 3938.58] because the God -[3938.58 --> 3939.32] who is love -[3939.32 --> 3940.46] became a man. -[3941.92 --> 3943.42] The gospel which means -[3943.42 --> 3944.16] good news -[3944.16 --> 3945.56] is the good news -[3945.56 --> 3946.74] mentioned in Luke 2.10. -[3947.44 --> 3948.30] That good news -[3948.30 --> 3949.48] is that the Son of God -[3949.48 --> 3950.84] who was born as a baby -[3950.84 --> 3952.14] would live the life -[3952.14 --> 3953.36] that we should have lived -[3953.36 --> 3954.40] and would die the death -[3954.40 --> 3955.32] that we should have died. -[3957.04 --> 3958.22] And on the third day -[3958.22 --> 3959.56] He would raise from the dead. -[3960.20 --> 3961.06] And all of that -[3961.06 --> 3962.52] was to free us from sin -[3962.52 --> 3963.96] so that we could be with Him -[3963.96 --> 3965.20] in resurrected bodies -[3965.20 --> 3966.52] rejoicing with Him -[3966.52 --> 3967.72] for eternity -[3967.72 --> 3968.86] without suffering -[3968.86 --> 3970.08] without pain -[3970.08 --> 3971.38] and without tears. -[3975.84 --> 3976.28] Remember -[3976.28 --> 3977.52] biblical joy -[3977.52 --> 3978.06] is not the result -[3978.06 --> 3978.98] of something good happening. -[3979.82 --> 3980.72] But an attitude -[3980.72 --> 3981.78] God's people can adopt -[3981.78 --> 3983.26] despite whatever happens. -[3985.16 --> 3986.04] Our passage -[3986.04 --> 3987.00] Isaiah 55 -[3987.00 --> 3988.02] 6-13 -[3988.02 --> 3990.06] is telling us -[3990.06 --> 3990.78] that we need to -[3990.78 --> 3991.80] seek the Lord. -[3992.54 --> 3993.16] Turn to Him -[3993.16 --> 3994.28] for it is only in Him -[3994.28 --> 3995.06] that we find mercy -[3995.06 --> 3995.68] and salvation -[3995.68 --> 3996.72] and joy. -[3997.54 --> 3998.48] It reminds us -[3998.48 --> 3999.32] that God is greater -[3999.32 --> 4000.32] than we can imagine. -[4000.78 --> 4001.54] That our ways -[4001.54 --> 4002.60] are not His ways -[4002.60 --> 4003.98] as the heavens -[4003.98 --> 4005.02] is greater than the earth. -[4006.26 --> 4006.90] On earth -[4006.90 --> 4008.10] there is suffering -[4008.10 --> 4008.98] and pain -[4008.98 --> 4009.80] and tears -[4009.80 --> 4010.58] and death. -[4011.32 --> 4012.16] But in heaven -[4012.16 --> 4012.96] there is God -[4012.96 --> 4013.90] and there is joy -[4013.90 --> 4015.30] and there is eternal life. -[4016.06 --> 4017.56] And we as God's people -[4017.56 --> 4018.72] though on earth -[4018.72 --> 4019.28] we suffer -[4019.28 --> 4020.04] and die -[4020.04 --> 4021.72] also rejoice -[4021.72 --> 4023.14] in the everlasting life -[4023.14 --> 4027.54] that our faithful -[4027.54 --> 4028.40] and good God -[4028.40 --> 4029.18] has provided us -[4029.18 --> 4030.12] through Christ. -[4030.12 --> 4031.96] for just as God -[4031.96 --> 4032.60] said that when He -[4032.60 --> 4033.54] sends out His word -[4033.54 --> 4034.98] it does not come back -[4034.98 --> 4035.80] until it has accomplished -[4035.80 --> 4036.34] its purpose -[4036.34 --> 4037.22] for which it was sent. -[4037.96 --> 4039.28] The same can be said -[4039.28 --> 4039.92] for Christ. -[4040.50 --> 4040.86] Christ -[4040.86 --> 4042.04] the word of God -[4042.04 --> 4042.96] was sent -[4042.96 --> 4044.14] for the purpose -[4044.14 --> 4045.04] of uniting God -[4045.04 --> 4045.78] with His people -[4045.78 --> 4047.56] and He has accomplished -[4047.56 --> 4048.66] that task. -[4049.24 --> 4050.46] And now with this assurance -[4050.46 --> 4051.62] in His faithfulness -[4051.62 --> 4052.90] we can rejoice -[4052.90 --> 4053.70] this Christmas -[4053.70 --> 4054.72] in the knowledge -[4054.72 --> 4055.98] of our future destiny -[4055.98 --> 4058.10] despite our lived suffering. -[4058.10 --> 4060.46] this Christmas -[4060.46 --> 4061.36] many of us -[4061.36 --> 4062.10] will not have -[4062.10 --> 4063.62] the picturesque circumstances -[4063.62 --> 4064.84] that are present -[4064.84 --> 4065.50] in movies -[4065.50 --> 4066.38] and in songs. -[4067.10 --> 4068.34] We might be missing people -[4068.34 --> 4069.08] and other things -[4069.08 --> 4069.60] that would make -[4069.60 --> 4070.96] those moments joyful. -[4072.62 --> 4074.08] But even in this -[4074.08 --> 4075.20] less than good time -[4075.20 --> 4078.58] in these less than good times -[4078.58 --> 4080.52] we can still take on joy -[4080.52 --> 4083.04] because in Christ -[4083.04 --> 4083.92] we have it all. -[4083.92 --> 4086.10] We can be joyful -[4086.10 --> 4087.28] despite the darkness -[4087.28 --> 4088.22] we face -[4088.22 --> 4089.26] because our joy -[4089.26 --> 4089.88] is not dependent -[4089.88 --> 4090.72] on decorations -[4090.72 --> 4092.10] or on cookies -[4092.10 --> 4093.80] or whether it snows or not. -[4094.96 --> 4095.28] No. -[4095.92 --> 4096.80] Our joy -[4096.80 --> 4097.68] is in -[4097.68 --> 4098.88] Christ. -[4102.16 --> 4103.06] Let's pray. -[4106.14 --> 4107.20] Dear Lord -[4107.20 --> 4109.42] fill our hearts -[4109.42 --> 4110.08] with joy -[4110.08 --> 4111.86] and when we do not -[4111.86 --> 4112.52] feel it -[4112.52 --> 4113.94] I pray that we would -[4113.94 --> 4114.98] still rejoice -[4114.98 --> 4117.56] even in our weeping -[4117.56 --> 4118.54] and in our sorrow -[4118.54 --> 4120.46] and in our tears -[4120.46 --> 4120.76] Lord -[4120.76 --> 4121.62] I pray that we could -[4121.62 --> 4122.96] still raise up voices -[4122.96 --> 4124.40] and shouts of joy -[4124.40 --> 4125.12] to You -[4125.12 --> 4126.90] for everything -[4126.90 --> 4127.60] You will do -[4127.60 --> 4128.44] and have done -[4128.44 --> 4130.12] for who You are -[4130.12 --> 4132.94] and that You are with us. -[4134.04 --> 4134.32] Amen. -[4134.32 --> 4134.42] Amen. -[4142.52 --> 4152.34] Please stand. -[4152.34 --> 4152.36] Please stand. -[4152.36 --> 4152.38] Please stand. -[4152.38 --> 4156.38] Please stand. -[4156.38 --> 4168.82] God of glory -[4168.82 --> 4170.96] Lord of love -[4170.96 --> 4186.42] hearts unfold -[4186.42 --> 4188.38] like flowers -[4188.38 --> 4189.64] before You -[4189.64 --> 4190.42] opening -[4190.42 --> 4192.06] to the -[4192.06 --> 4194.28] Son of God -[4194.28 --> 4203.60] and -[4203.60 --> 4204.14] to do -[4204.14 --> 4204.60] pagar -[4204.60 --> 4205.50] And -[4205.50 --> 4206.66] hear you -[4206.66 --> 4210.48] River of immortal gladness, -[4210.76 --> 4215.34] live us with the light of day. -[4217.00 --> 4221.20] You are the one who saves, -[4221.52 --> 4225.28] you are the one who saves, -[4225.28 --> 4229.52] you are the one who stands -[4229.52 --> 4233.72] and drops from the grave. -[4233.72 --> 4238.06] You are the light of life, -[4238.50 --> 4242.18] the everlasting day. -[4242.54 --> 4246.50] You are the one who saves -[4246.50 --> 4249.34] all our sins away. -[4251.02 --> 4255.34] You are giving and forgiving, -[4256.54 --> 4260.42] ever blessing, ever blessed, -[4260.42 --> 4264.80] fountain of the joy of living, -[4265.16 --> 4268.60] ocean depths of happiness. -[4270.88 --> 4275.34] You are the one who saves, -[4275.34 --> 4279.44] you are the one who saves, -[4279.44 --> 4282.94] you are the one who saves, -[4283.70 --> 4286.16] and drops from the grave. -[4287.90 --> 4291.96] You are the light of life, -[4292.16 --> 4296.00] the everlasting day. -[4296.32 --> 4300.00] You are the one who saves, -[4300.00 --> 4304.30] All our sins away -[4304.30 --> 4310.04] Jesus, you are my rescue -[4310.04 --> 4314.00] Jesus, you are my rescue -[4314.52 --> 4321.00] I give you everything I am -[4321.00 --> 4326.84] Jesus, you are my rescue -[4326.84 --> 4331.26] Jesus, you are my rescue -[4331.26 --> 4338.28] I give you everything I am -[4338.28 --> 4343.78] Joyful, joyful, we adore you -[4343.78 --> 4347.92] Not a glory nor a blood -[4347.92 --> 4352.30] Hearts unfold like clouds before you -[4352.30 --> 4356.72] Hold me to the Son of Thine -[4356.72 --> 4362.74] You are the one who saves -[4362.74 --> 4366.96] You are the one who saves -[4366.96 --> 4371.04] You are the one whose hands -[4371.04 --> 4374.72] Wilt us from the grave -[4374.72 --> 4379.44] You are the light of love -[4379.44 --> 4383.06] We are the lost in vain -[4383.06 --> 4387.16] You are the one whose hands -[4387.16 --> 4390.72] All our sins away -[4390.72 --> 4402.28] Just want to remind everyone -[4402.28 --> 4403.20] Before I bless you -[4403.20 --> 4404.78] Before the Lord blesses you -[4404.78 --> 4405.84] I'll make that correction -[4405.84 --> 4409.34] That we will continue our rejoicing in the Lord -[4409.34 --> 4410.86] Tonight at 4pm -[4410.86 --> 4413.24] At the O Holy Night worship service -[4413.24 --> 4415.76] And also youth and young adults -[4415.76 --> 4417.54] Remember your events surrounding -[4417.54 --> 4419.00] That awesome moment -[4419.00 --> 4420.34] That we are all going to rejoice the Lord in -[4420.34 --> 4421.54] Here is the blessing -[4421.54 --> 4422.34] From God -[4422.34 --> 4425.14] The Lord bless you -[4425.14 --> 4425.98] And keep you -[4425.98 --> 4428.02] The Lord make His face shine on you -[4428.02 --> 4429.38] And be gracious to you -[4429.38 --> 4431.24] The Lord turn His face towards you -[4431.24 --> 4432.28] And give you peace -[4432.28 --> 4443.50] Joy to the world -[4443.50 --> 4447.62] The Lord is come -[4447.62 --> 4457.56] Joy to the world -[4457.56 --> 4460.90] The Lord is come -[4460.90 --> 4467.90] Let all receive the peace -[4467.90 --> 4476.52] Let every heart prepare Him -[4476.52 --> 4481.90] And heaven and nature sing -[4481.90 --> 4486.06] And heaven and nature sing -[4486.06 --> 4494.90] And heaven and nature sing -[4494.90 --> 4500.58] Joy to the earth -[4500.58 --> 4503.90] The Savior reigns -[4503.90 --> 4505.08] And rooftop song -[4505.08 --> 4518.56] And heaven and nature sing -[4518.56 --> 4519.32] And what's of the歌 hero titled -[4519.32 --> 4520.90] And earth sing -[4520.90 --> 4522.16] Are the inner interывать lord -[4522.16 --> 4529.20] the sounding joy, repeat the sounding joy. -[4529.20 --> 4538.34] Repeat, repeat the sounding joy. -[4540.46 --> 4547.58] No more let sin and sorrow grow, -[4547.58 --> 4554.58] nor thoughts in flesh and brow. -[4556.20 --> 4563.92] He comes to let His blessings flow, -[4564.26 --> 4571.58] for else the curse is found, -[4571.58 --> 4579.92] for else the curse fills down. -[4581.58 --> 4588.96] He was the world with truth and grace, -[4589.20 --> 4594.58] and made salvation's praise. -[4594.58 --> 4602.80] The qualities of His righteousness, -[4604.18 --> 4607.38] and wonders of His love, -[4607.58 --> 4610.98] and wonders of His love, -[4611.30 --> 4618.58] and wonders, wonders of His love. -[4618.58 --> 4628.58] The love of His love, -[4628.58 --> 4630.58] and wonders of His love. -[4630.58 --> 4637.58] The love of His love, -[4637.58 --> 4639.58] and wonders of His love. -[4639.58 --> 4669.56] Thank you. -[4669.58 --> 4699.56] Thank you. -[4699.58 --> 4701.58] Thank you. -[4729.58 --> 4731.58] Thank you. -[4759.58 --> 4761.58] Thank you. -[4789.58 --> 4791.58] Thank you. -[4819.58 --> 4821.58] Thank you. -[4849.58 --> 4851.58] Thank you. -[4879.58 --> 4881.58] Thank you. -[4881.58 --> 4883.58] Thank you. -[4883.58 --> 4885.58] Thank you. -[4885.58 --> 4887.58] Thank you. -[4887.58 --> 4889.58] Thank you. -[4889.58 --> 4891.58] Thank you. -[4891.58 --> 4893.58] Thank you. -[4893.58 --> 4895.58] Thank you. diff --git "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 December 3, 2023 (1st week of Advent 2023)_summary.txt" "b/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 December 3, 2023 (1st week of Advent 2023)_summary.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index bdeead8bd46edf8b850bf0dbd8ae0525b4cf3bb9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 December 3, 2023 (1st week of Advent 2023)_summary.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,147 +0,0 @@ -• The word "peace" is common in most languages and cultures -• In the Bible, peace refers to the absence of conflict, but also implies wholeness and completeness -• The Hebrew word for peace (shalom) means complete or whole, referring to a state of being intact with no missing parts -• Shalom can refer to physical, emotional, and relational wholeness -• Restoring shalom involves making something whole again by taking what's broken and restoring it to wholeness -• Jesus' birth was announced as the arrival of peace (Eirene) and he came to offer his peace to others -• True peace requires taking what's broken and restoring it to wholeness in one's life, relationships, or world -• The concept of shalom is explored during the season of Advent -• The birth of Jesus and the promise of Emmanuel -• Worship and praise to God for sending His Son -• Celebration of Jesus' arrival and the gift of peace -• Discussion of a "completed manual" and worship practices -• Prayer of confession and assurance, seeking God's presence in times of chaos and uncertainty -• Reflection on the season of Advent and the promise of Jesus' return -• Repeatedly singing a hymn with lyrics about finding peace and well-being despite trials -• Explaining that Christ's sacrifice has given assurance of salvation -• Describing the benefits of Christ's sacrifice, including healing from sin and burden -• Talking about the return of Jesus Christ as Savior of the world -• Mentioning the idea that all flesh will see his glory and be reconciled to him -• Discussing the worship and recognition of Jesus Christ as King by humanity and heaven -• Inviting Adam and Rachel to share their story/testimony -• Reading Luke 8:5-8, referencing its importance in discipleship and spreading the Lord's word -• The seed sowing parable: not forcing others onto faith, but trusting God to allow it to grow -• Sharing a personal story of Adam and Rachel meeting, and how God brought them together -• John Kuypers sharing a testimony on his connection with Adam and praying for their relationship -• Reflections on God's plan, timing, and reasons, and trusting in His goodness despite not always understanding -• Faith and trust in God -• Learning to lean on God during struggles -• Overcoming conflict and seeing eye-to-eye with others -• Love as a gift given from the heart -• Being vessels of God's love and receiving blessings -• Planting seeds of faith in others through good works -• A prayer for Adam and Rachel, asking them to quiet their minds and know God's presence -• The power of Jesus' spirit and the importance of holding onto it -• The promise that God will always love and guide them -• Discussion of a Christianity Explored class -• Adam and Rachel's participation in the class -• Rachel's willingness to ask questions and learn -• Baptism profession of faith ceremony -• Four questions asked to mark the profession: - • Jesus Christ as Son of God and Savior - • Belief in the Bible as the word of God - • Acceptance of baptismal promises - • Promise to strengthen love and commitment to Christ -• Welcoming a couple, Adam and Rachel, into full communion and fellowship with the church -• Blessing them with spiritual gifts to do God's will -• Congratulating them on their decision to join the church family -• Presenting them with certificates and gifts -• Laying hands on them in prayer for guidance and protection -• Adam and Rachel's profession of faith -• Bible verse recitation, including 1 Thessalonians 5:14 -• Collection for Cascade Christian Counseling -• Offering collection for church budget and ministries -• Prayer and dedication of work by deacon Clem -• Miscellaneous announcements and housekeeping notes -• Kids' Corner segment where children are asked questions -• Discussion on things that are never-ending (e.g. the sea, God's love) -• Children share things they want to never end (e.g. rainbows, birthday celebrations) -• Blessing and congregation greeting -• Church announcements (AGM, Tri-Soup Tournament winners, budget approval) -• Upcoming events (Mexico mission trip sign-up, Youth coffee after church) -• Confession of sin and thanks for forgiveness -• Advent theme and message of peace -• Prayers for world peace, particularly in Israel/Hamas conflict and Ukraine/Russia conflict -• Requests for prayer for various individuals with health issues -• Prayer for the church community and needs -• Advent worship theme: expecting Jesus' birth to bring freedom from fears and sins -• Reading from Isaiah 9 -• Discussing the cultural shift to Christmas season -• Exploring the idea of a "spiritual" Christmas -• Interpreting Isaiah 9:1-6, focusing on themes of peace and the birth of Jesus -• Analyzing how God's presence in history changes circumstances, such as moving from darkness to light and from conflict to peace -• The Bible's concept of peace as restoration to wholeness -• Peace in the Bible means being fully human, fully alive, with union with God and communion with people and creation -• Three common ways people experience peace: absence of conflict, inner turmoil, or being at peace within oneself -• Waiting for peace by living peace (shalom) is essential during Advent season -• The concept of peace in culture can be warped and distorted -• Three ways people talk about peace: inner reality of being at peace, inner peace as enlightenment or calm, and inner peace tied to personal prosperity -• These definitions of peace are insufficient and do not last -• The Bible offers a different definition of peace that is lasting and living -• God's peace is only found in Jesus Christ and is the ultimate expression of peace -• The world's concept of peace is just a fading shadow of the real thing -• Harmony and communion between God, man, woman, and creation are established in the beginning -• Disobedience to God breaks this harmony and shalom is shattered -• Sin has painful consequences for human relationships, labor, and existence -• The relationship between man and woman becomes strained and broken -• Death results from sin and shalom is irreparably broken -• The concept of sin and its relationship to broken shalom -• The definition and restoration of shalom as union with God, communion with others, and wholeness/completeness -• Shalom is what God offers through Emmanuel/God with us -• The role of the Aaronic blessing in conveying God's peace and blessings -• The connection between relationship with God, His name being on individuals, and experiencing shalom/peace -• The concept of peace and wholeness offered to people -• Isaiah's prophecies about peace and a child born to bring it -• The birth of Jesus and the angels' declaration of peace on earth -• Jesus' entrance into Jerusalem and the crowd's praise for him as the king who brings peace -• Christmas is about peace -• Jesus says he brings and leaves peace with us -• Peace in this world involves trouble, but take heart, Jesus has overcome the world -• Ephesians 2:13-22 teaches that Christ creates one new humanity out of two, making peace through reconciliation to God -• Shalom means union and communion with God and each other, achieved on the cross -• Jesus' life and death as a substitute for humanity's sin -• The concept of Jesus taking on the brokenness of humanity -• The idea that Jesus became sin for us, allowing us to become righteous -• God's plan for peace through Jesus' gospel and rule -• The story continuing in Revelation 21:3-4, with God dwelling among His people and wiping away their tears. -• God's union with his people is restored through the new order of shalom. -• The old order has passed away, and a new era of peace has begun. -• This peace will last forever because it is promised through eternity. -• We are made whole and being made whole by living in peace. -• True peace requires work to restore what's broken and take it to wholeness. -• Paul encourages the church to let the peace of Christ rule in their hearts. -• The source of peace is having Christ's power in one's heart and mind -• Paul Tripp's book mentions that true peace comes from being in awe of God's power, not from external circumstances -• Peace can be experienced in community only when Christ is present and ruling within individuals -• Christ's presence brings rest and grounding for the heart through forgiveness, acceptance, and knowing Jesus -• The gospel offers a lasting and better peace that does not fade or pass away because it comes from Jesus' unchanging nature -• The speaker recounts a difficult moment in their day with their kids, where they were about to lose patience and raise their voice. -• A moment of pause allowed them to reflect on their actions and change their approach to communicating with their children. -• The speaker attributes the change to standing before an audience and recalling a previous experience, which provided accountability. -• They acknowledge that in the future, they will likely struggle with patience again, but are grateful for Jesus' peace as a source of strength. -• Mention of a funeral and the phrase "be still" to acknowledge God -• Reference to Psalm 46 and the chaotic waves of the oceans -• Call to remember the peace of Christ and let it rule in one's heart -• Prayer for God's peace and shalom-making in the world -• Discussion of Advent and Christmas season themes, including wholeness and restoration -• Acknowledgment of human fallibility and need for help to come back to Jesus -• Celebration of Jesus as Emmanuel, God with us -• Repeating phrases and hymns -• Invitation to pray after service -• Description of a blessing and God's presence -• References to Christ, the king, and peace -• Prayer and fellowship after service -• Events happening in the community and church family -• Snacks, cakes, and other items being prepared for consumption -• God's blessing and presence being invoked for support and protection -• Encouragement to not be afraid, but to go with and befriend God -• The importance of peace and love -• Singing a last song together as a community -• May God's peace and Christ's grace be with them -• Praising God for his glorious reign from earth to heaven -• Declaring the name of Jesus, the lamb who was slain -• The phrase "lamb once slain" is repeated throughout the transcript, emphasizing a central theme. -• Christ is referred to as the "eternal king of kings". -• Praise is declared for Christ's glorious reign from earth to heaven. -• The name of Christ is repeatedly invoked. -• A later section appears to be unrelated, mentioning death and repeating the phrase "die". \ No newline at end of file diff --git "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 December 3, 2023 (1st week of Advent 2023)_transcript.txt" "b/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 December 3, 2023 (1st week of Advent 2023)_transcript.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 5a64496d638a0143fea596e9976922b2cb637c25..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 December 3, 2023 (1st week of Advent 2023)_transcript.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2735 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.00] . -[30.00 --> 32.00] . -[60.00 --> 62.00] . -[90.00 --> 92.00] . -[92.00 --> 94.00] . -[94.00 --> 96.00] . -[96.00 --> 98.00] . -[98.00 --> 100.00] . -[100.00 --> 102.00] The word peace is common in most languages. -[102.00 --> 105.00] People can talk about peace treaties or times of peace. -[105.00 --> 107.00] It means the absence of war. -[107.00 --> 110.00] And in the Bible, the word peace can refer to the absence of conflict, -[110.00 --> 114.00] but it also points to the presence of something better in its place. -[114.00 --> 117.00] In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word for peace is shalom. -[117.00 --> 120.00] And in the New Testament, the Greek word is erene. -[120.00 --> 123.00] The most basic meaning of shalom is complete or whole. -[123.00 --> 128.00] The word can refer to a stone that has a perfect whole shape with no cracks. -[128.00 --> 133.00] It can also refer to a completed stone wall that has no gaps and no missing bricks. -[133.00 --> 140.00] Shalom refers to something that's complex with lots of pieces that's in a state of completeness, wholeness. -[140.00 --> 146.00] It's like Job, who says his tents are in a state of shalom because he counted his flock and no animals are missing. -[146.00 --> 149.00] This is why shalom can refer to a person's well-being. -[149.00 --> 154.00] Like when David visited his brothers on the battlefield, he asked about their shalom. -[154.00 --> 160.00] The core idea is that life is complex, full of moving parts and relationships and situations. -[160.00 --> 165.00] And when any of these is out of alignment or missing, your shalom breaks down. -[165.00 --> 166.00] Life is no longer whole. -[166.00 --> 167.00] It needs to be restored. -[167.00 --> 172.00] In fact, that's the basic meaning of shalom when you use it as a verb. -[172.00 --> 176.00] To bring shalom literally means to make complete or restore. -[176.00 --> 180.00] So Solomon brings shalom to the unfinished temple when he completes it. -[180.00 --> 187.00] Or if your animal accidentally damages your neighbor's field, you shalom them by giving them a complete repayment for their loss. -[187.00 --> 190.00] You take what's missing and you restore it to wholeness. -[190.00 --> 192.00] The same goes for human relationships. -[192.00 --> 197.00] In the book of Proverbs, to reconcile and heal a broken relationship is to bring shalom. -[197.00 --> 202.00] And when rival kingdoms make shalom in the Bible, it doesn't just mean they stop fighting. -[202.00 --> 205.00] It also means they start working together for each other's benefit. -[205.00 --> 211.00] This state of shalom is what Israel's kings were supposed to cultivate and it rarely happened. -[211.00 --> 215.00] So the prophet Isaiah, he looked forward to a future king, a prince of shalom. -[215.00 --> 218.00] And his reign would bring shalom with no end. -[218.00 --> 226.00] A time when God would make a covenant of shalom with his people and make right all wrongs and heal all that's been broken. -[226.00 --> 231.00] This is why Jesus' birth in the New Testament was announced as the arrival of Eirene. -[231.00 --> 233.00] Remember, that's the Greek word for peace. -[233.00 --> 236.00] Jesus came to offer his peace to others. -[236.00 --> 239.00] Like when he said to his followers, my peace I give to you all. -[239.00 --> 246.00] The apostles claimed that Jesus made peace between messed up humans and God when he died and rose from the dead. -[246.00 --> 252.00] The idea is that he restored to wholeness the broken relationship between humans and their creator. -[252.00 --> 257.00] This is why the apostle Paul can say Jesus himself is our Eirene. -[257.00 --> 261.00] He was the whole complete human that I am made to be but have failed to be. -[261.00 --> 264.00] And now he gives me his life as a gift. -[264.00 --> 268.00] And this means that Jesus' followers are now called to create peace. -[268.00 --> 277.00] Paul instructed local churches to keep their unity through the bond of peace, which requires humility and patience and bearing with others in love. -[277.00 --> 287.00] Becoming people of peace means participating in the life of Jesus who reconciled all things in heaven and on earth, restoring peace through his death and resurrection. -[287.00 --> 290.00] So peace takes a lot of work. -[290.00 --> 293.00] Because it's not just the absence of conflict. -[293.00 --> 300.00] True peace requires taking what's broken and restoring it to wholeness, whether it's in our lives, our relationships or in our world. -[300.00 --> 313.00] And that's the rich biblical concept of peace. -[313.00 --> 315.00] Good morning. -[315.00 --> 321.00] I want to just take a moment and welcome you to Emmanuel Church. -[321.00 --> 324.00] Special welcome if you are a guest with us this morning. -[324.00 --> 325.00] My name is Chris. -[325.00 --> 332.00] I'm one of the pastors here and it's my privilege with these others to lead in our shared worship together this morning. -[332.00 --> 339.16] morning. As you can see by looking around and by the video, today is the first Sunday of Advent. -[339.68 --> 347.10] Advent is the season of waiting and anticipation prior to Christmas. And so this season we are -[347.10 --> 356.94] going to enter into those four words of Advent with peace, hope, joy, and love and explore what -[356.94 --> 366.80] it is that God has on offer for us by his spirit and by the coming of Jesus into the world. As we -[366.80 --> 370.88] gather for worship, we do so as people who are called by God. And so I'm going to invite you, -[370.88 --> 374.30] as you're able, to stand and we'll be welcomed into his presence. -[374.30 --> 392.88] As we wait on God, he meets us here and we mark that by receiving his greeting. Grace, mercy, -[393.42 --> 398.36] and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, -[398.36 --> 404.28] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. I invite you to turn to those -[404.28 --> 407.18] around you in worship and welcome them in the name of Jesus. -[428.36 --> 449.44] Welcome to the season of Advent, a season of being reminded of the birth of our Savior, -[450.08 --> 456.54] a season of being reminded of who Jesus is, a season of waiting, anticipating the second coming of -[456.54 --> 462.96] Christ, a season illuminating God's active hand and redemptive plan, a season of sitting in the -[462.96 --> 469.62] tension of the now, not yet, where our Prince of Peace walks with us. Sing with us the song of Emmanuel -[469.62 --> 471.22] that all the world may hear. -[486.54 --> 502.90] Sing with us the song of Emmanuel, this the Christ who was long foretold, low in the shadows of Bethlehem, -[503.36 --> 515.02] promise of dawn now our eyes behold. God most high in a manger lane, lift your voices and now proclaim, -[515.02 --> 523.02] great and glorious love has come to us, join now with the hosts of heaven. -[532.44 --> 541.08] Come we to welcome Emmanuel, King who came with no crown or throne, -[541.08 --> 549.32] helplessly lay the invincible, maker of Mary, now Mary's son. -[549.74 --> 557.40] Oh, what wisdom to save us all, shepherds, sages before and fall, -[557.90 --> 565.86] grace and majesty, what humility, come on, bend in me, adore Him. -[565.86 --> 587.14] Go spread the news of Emmanuel, joy and peace for the weary heart, lift up your heads for your King has come, -[587.14 --> 592.14] sing for the light overwhelms the dark. -[594.14 --> 606.78] Glory shining for all to see, hope alive let the gospel ring, God has made a way, He will have the praise, -[606.98 --> 610.12] tell the world His name is Jesus. -[610.12 --> 623.08] Glory shining for all to see, hope alive let the gospel ring, God has made a way, He will have the praise, -[623.08 --> 626.44] tell the world His name is Jesus. -[626.44 --> 656.42] Glory shining for all to see, glory and glory. -[656.50 --> 661.56] So just sing pepper, at birth at various democracies, the gospel ring, God has made a way! -[661.56 --> 662.04] The completed manual and clear means that the world around the world, -[662.04 --> 665.08] and physical priest 신�ie, korra diaz, their name is Jesus. -[666.22 --> 669.72] The utilitarian tradition, uniqu 1976, of worship God and glory and glory and glory and glory. -[670.00 --> 671.02] Bloombergということで, Aurora vividly turns to the core because he wants to graduate time and glory and glory and glory. -[671.04 --> 671.62] вним caussir today. -[673.62 --> 675.72] Thanks for the caffeine to love, absolutely fantastic, goodbye and glory and glory and glory. -[676.24 --> 677.10] Hallelujah, Gloria, Gloria players and glory and glory. -[677.78 --> 679.92] In through the root of everyone in the presence of the world, -[680.08 --> 682.14] REI don't must experience theaviour, epidemic, -[682.14 --> 682.72] by the day MR andwood city, monumentισ of the future of more modern art and glory, -[682.82 --> 683.56] allowing me. -[684.20 --> 685.28] Jo Anyone, from Say early Manager to exploring the knowledge, glory and honor, -[685.28 --> 700.28] Gloria, Gloria -[700.28 --> 718.28] Gloria, Gloria -[718.28 --> 733.28] Gloria, Gloria -[733.28 --> 747.28] Suddenly, a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests. -[747.28 --> 755.28] Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you are called to peace. -[755.28 --> 785.28] -[785.28 --> 815.28] -[815.28 --> 832.28] Strengthen me, hold my head up high, and I'll stand upon your truth, bringing glory unto you, and let the peace of God, let it reign. -[832.28 --> 862.28] -[862.28 --> 892.28] -[892.28 --> 922.28] -[922.28 --> 952.28] -[952.28 --> 961.28] Bring life and make me whole, and let the peace of God, let it reign. -[961.28 --> 970.90] Join me in a prayer of confession and assurance. -[970.90 --> 987.58] Jesus, wonderful counselor, mighty God, everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, we come before you in this time of waiting. -[987.58 --> 992.76] We sing of your peace, that it may reign in all the earth. -[993.26 --> 1000.54] We ask for you to draw us closer, that your Holy Spirit saturates our soul for comfort and strength. -[1000.54 --> 1006.44] Because God, if we're honest, this world is far from peace. -[1007.84 --> 1010.14] At times we feel distant from you. -[1010.48 --> 1011.32] We feel weak. -[1012.52 --> 1016.34] Our life circumstances overwhelm us, and we cry out, -[1016.54 --> 1017.76] Where are you, God? -[1018.90 --> 1020.56] Where are you, God? -[1020.56 --> 1020.62] Where are you, God? -[1023.94 --> 1029.20] Where are you in the empty chair at the family Christmas gathering? -[1031.20 --> 1033.52] Where are you in the hospital room? -[1036.60 --> 1039.50] Where are you in the chaos of life? -[1040.44 --> 1041.78] Where are you in the wars? -[1043.48 --> 1045.08] Where are you, God? -[1045.08 --> 1075.06] Where are you, God? -[1075.08 --> 1077.54] In the season of waiting, we look to your coming again, Lord, -[1077.70 --> 1079.90] But sometimes it feels so far away. -[1080.54 --> 1082.08] And we need you now. -[1086.68 --> 1091.96] Lord, let the story of Advent, the story of you coming into history, -[1091.96 --> 1096.90] Remind us that you are Emmanuel, God with us. -[1096.90 --> 1111.16] May we turn to you in confession of our sins and be assured that you have conquered this world on the cross and you are coming again. -[1111.16 --> 1123.56] And let us sit in the silence amidst the chaos and the busy malls and the flashing lights. -[1123.56 --> 1129.00] Let us sit in the knowledge that you are our Prince of Peace. -[1129.04 --> 1131.90] In your name we pray. -[1131.90 --> 1131.98] Amen. -[1132.00 --> 1132.46] Amen. -[1132.46 --> 1132.98] Amen. -[1137.36 --> 1138.48] Amen. -[1138.48 --> 1138.60] Amen. -[1138.60 --> 1140.74] Amen. -[1144.74 --> 1145.28] Amen. -[1145.28 --> 1146.08] Amen. -[1146.20 --> 1148.64] Amen. -[1148.64 --> 1149.58] Amen. -[1149.66 --> 1150.08] Amen. -[1150.08 --> 1150.62] Amen. -[1150.62 --> 1150.86] Amen. -[1151.04 --> 1151.62] Amen. -[1151.62 --> 1151.86] Amen. -[1151.86 --> 1152.14] Amen. -[1152.18 --> 1154.24] Amen. -[1154.24 --> 1154.64] Amen. -[1154.88 --> 1155.14] Amen. -[1155.56 --> 1156.74] Amen. -[1156.74 --> 1157.06] Amen. -[1157.06 --> 1157.74] Amen. -[1157.74 --> 1157.88] Amen. -[1157.88 --> 1178.40] When peace like a river -[1178.40 --> 1183.34] attendeth my way -[1183.34 --> 1191.26] When sorrows like sea billows roll -[1191.26 --> 1195.94] Whatever my lot -[1195.94 --> 1200.98] Thou hast taught me to say -[1200.98 --> 1208.98] It is well, it is well with my soul -[1208.98 --> 1218.90] It is well with my soul -[1218.90 --> 1230.82] It is well, it is well with my soul -[1230.82 --> 1236.82] Though Satan should profit -[1236.82 --> 1240.82] Though trials should come -[1240.82 --> 1248.74] Let this blessed assurance control -[1248.74 --> 1254.68] That Christ has regarded -[1254.68 --> 1259.14] My helpless estate -[1259.14 --> 1263.74] And has shed his own blood -[1263.74 --> 1266.74] For my soul -[1266.74 --> 1274.66] It is well, it is well -[1274.66 --> 1276.66] With my soul -[1276.66 --> 1283.66] It is well, it is well -[1283.66 --> 1286.66] With my soul -[1286.66 --> 1294.32] I sin, O the bliss -[1294.32 --> 1299.82] Of this glorious thought -[1299.82 --> 1304.58] My sin, not in part -[1304.58 --> 1307.58] But the whole -[1307.58 --> 1312.62] Is nailed to the cross -[1312.62 --> 1317.80] And I bid no more -[1317.80 --> 1320.50] Praise the Lord -[1320.50 --> 1326.50] Praise the Lord, O my soul -[1326.50 --> 1332.42] It is well, it is well -[1332.42 --> 1334.42] With my soul -[1334.42 --> 1336.42] With my soul -[1336.42 --> 1342.42] It is well, it is well -[1342.42 --> 1344.42] With my soul -[1344.42 --> 1346.42] With my soul -[1346.42 --> 1352.42] O Lord, grace the day -[1352.42 --> 1358.34] When my faith shall be sigh -[1358.34 --> 1363.34] The clouds be rolled back -[1363.34 --> 1366.34] As the scrolls -[1366.34 --> 1370.34] The trough shall resound -[1370.34 --> 1375.34] And the Lord shall descend -[1375.34 --> 1378.26] Even so -[1378.26 --> 1379.26] Even so -[1379.26 --> 1381.26] It is well -[1381.26 --> 1383.26] With my soul -[1383.26 --> 1387.26] It is well -[1387.26 --> 1389.26] It is well -[1389.26 --> 1393.26] With my soul -[1393.26 --> 1395.26] With my soul -[1395.26 --> 1397.26] With my soul -[1397.26 --> 1399.18] It is well -[1399.18 --> 1400.18] It is well -[1400.18 --> 1400.76] It is well -[1400.76 --> 1402.18] It is well -[1402.18 --> 1403.12] It is well -[1403.12 --> 1405.30] With my soul -[1427.26 --> 1451.38] I cannot tell why he whom angels worship -[1451.38 --> 1459.86] Should set his love upon the sons of men -[1459.86 --> 1467.00] Or why as shepherd he should seek the wonders -[1467.00 --> 1474.92] To bring them back they know not how or when -[1474.92 --> 1482.82] But this I know that he was born of Mary -[1482.82 --> 1490.76] When Bethlehem's manger was his only home -[1490.76 --> 1498.92] And that he lived at Nazareth and labored -[1498.92 --> 1505.92] And so the Savior, Savior of the world is come -[1505.92 --> 1513.74] I cannot tell how silently he suffered -[1513.74 --> 1522.12] As with his peace he graced the place of tears -[1522.12 --> 1529.10] For how his heart upon the cross was broken -[1529.10 --> 1537.16] The crown of pain to three and thirty years -[1537.16 --> 1544.18] But this I know he heals the brokenhearted -[1544.18 --> 1551.62] And stays our sin and clothes our lurking way -[1551.62 --> 1559.18] And lifts the burden from the heavy laden -[1559.86 --> 1567.18] For yet the Savior, Savior of the world is here -[1567.18 --> 1574.68] I cannot tell how he will win the nations -[1574.68 --> 1582.18] How he will claim his earthly heritage -[1582.70 --> 1589.60] How satisfied the needs and aspirations -[1589.60 --> 1597.10] Of east and west, of sinner and of sage -[1597.10 --> 1604.68] But this I know, all flesh shall see his glory -[1604.68 --> 1612.04] And he shall reap the harvest he has sown -[1612.04 --> 1620.04] And some glad day his sun shall shine in splendor -[1620.04 --> 1627.04] When he the Savior, Savior of the world is known -[1627.04 --> 1634.54] I cannot tell how all the lands shall worship -[1634.54 --> 1642.04] When at his bidding every storm is still -[1642.04 --> 1649.12] Or who can say how great the jubilation -[1649.12 --> 1656.88] When all the hearts of men with love are filled -[1656.88 --> 1663.88] But this I know, all the skies will thrill with rapture -[1663.88 --> 1670.88] And myriad, myriad human voices sing -[1670.88 --> 1678.38] And earth to heaven and heaven to earth will answer -[1678.38 --> 1685.88] At last the Savior, Savior of the world is King -[1685.88 --> 1692.88] But this I know, all the skies will thrill with rapture -[1692.88 --> 1699.88] And myriad, myriad human voices sing -[1699.88 --> 1707.88] And earth to heaven and heaven to earth will answer -[1707.88 --> 1716.88] At last the Savior, Savior of the world is King -[1716.88 --> 1718.94] I invite you to be seated -[1718.94 --> 1730.72] At this time in our shared worship life together -[1730.72 --> 1735.60] We have the opportunity to participate in and witness -[1735.60 --> 1739.62] A profession of faith from Adam and Rachel Smid -[1739.62 --> 1745.32] In case you missed it, these kinds of things are awesome -[1745.32 --> 1746.54] In the life of the church -[1746.54 --> 1751.20] These kinds of events are a sign to us of God -[1751.20 --> 1752.78] Still at work in the world -[1752.78 --> 1757.78] As he opens hearts and changes minds -[1757.78 --> 1761.72] And so the way that we mark that here in this church -[1761.72 --> 1764.54] Is we invite the people up -[1764.54 --> 1766.16] Who are going to make a profession of faith -[1766.16 --> 1768.50] They're going to share a little bit of a story -[1768.50 --> 1770.32] Or testimony, a word for us -[1770.32 --> 1773.44] And then we have people who have been significant -[1773.44 --> 1776.88] In their life of faith and in their discipleship -[1776.88 --> 1781.00] Who will speak a word and share some of that story and journey -[1781.00 --> 1784.46] And so to begin, I'm going to invite Adam and Rachel to the front -[1784.46 --> 1786.90] They're going to come up -[1786.90 --> 1790.76] And Adam is going to share a little bit -[1790.76 --> 1796.86] You know, that feels about right -[1796.86 --> 1797.74] Knowing you guys -[1797.74 --> 1804.62] Morning church -[1804.62 --> 1811.22] This morning I'm planning on reading Luke 8 verses 5 to 8 -[1811.22 --> 1814.70] As this is a meaningful verse to myself and Rachel -[1814.70 --> 1817.98] A farmer went out to sow his seed -[1817.98 --> 1821.16] As he scattered the seed, some fell along the path -[1821.16 --> 1824.56] It was trampled on and the birds ate it up -[1824.56 --> 1826.92] Some fell on the rocky ground -[1826.92 --> 1829.40] And when it came up, the plants withered -[1829.40 --> 1831.00] Because they had no moisture -[1831.00 --> 1833.80] Other seed fell among the thorns -[1833.80 --> 1836.90] Which grew up with it and choked the plants -[1836.90 --> 1839.76] Still other seed fell on good soil -[1839.76 --> 1841.92] It came up, yielded a crop -[1841.92 --> 1844.02] A hundred times or more than it was sown -[1844.02 --> 1846.62] This verse is important to us -[1846.62 --> 1849.20] In that God called us to be disciples -[1849.20 --> 1852.60] Spreading the word or the seed of the Lord -[1852.60 --> 1855.90] You never know who your faith may impact -[1855.90 --> 1859.72] But it's important to also not force others onto it -[1859.72 --> 1861.48] Like a crop -[1861.48 --> 1864.48] It is not up to me who allows the seed to grow -[1864.48 --> 1866.40] But God, maker of all things -[1866.40 --> 1871.04] Thank you -[1871.04 --> 1873.86] If you guys don't know or couldn't figure that out -[1873.86 --> 1874.56] Adam's a farmer -[1874.56 --> 1880.80] Part of their story together -[1880.80 --> 1882.72] That brings them to this place -[1882.72 --> 1886.98] Is that we don't always get to see that seed bear fruit -[1886.98 --> 1888.56] In the time that we would like it to -[1888.56 --> 1889.64] Right? -[1889.70 --> 1891.78] Or in the manner that we would expect it to -[1891.78 --> 1893.94] And yet, God is faithful -[1893.94 --> 1895.46] And here we are together -[1895.46 --> 1898.14] To mark that, why don't you guys have a seat -[1898.14 --> 1899.26] You don't have to stand up here anymore -[1899.26 --> 1900.94] I know you love this part of it -[1900.94 --> 1904.26] And then I'm going to invite John Kuypers to the front -[1904.26 --> 1908.24] He's going to share a little bit of a testimony and story -[1908.24 --> 1910.38] For Adam and Rachel too -[1910.38 --> 1911.10] Up here, John -[1911.10 --> 1935.12] Adam, it's evident to me that God caused our paths to cross -[1935.12 --> 1936.30] A long time ago -[1936.30 --> 1940.22] Youth camp is kind of where we made our first connection -[1940.22 --> 1944.36] Our common interests and mechanics sparked a lifelong friendship -[1944.36 --> 1948.08] You love any kind of mechanical machine -[1948.08 --> 1952.10] And just absorb the physics behind the wheels and the gears -[1952.10 --> 1956.74] Your mind was created by God that way -[1956.74 --> 1959.44] And to me it's obvious that you honor God -[1959.44 --> 1963.26] Through your God-given talents to the best of your abilities -[1963.26 --> 1966.22] Adam, through the years I have prayed with you -[1966.22 --> 1967.76] And for you many times -[1967.76 --> 1970.72] I have prayed that you see God for who he is -[1970.72 --> 1974.98] I have prayed that you find the strength you need from him day to day -[1974.98 --> 1978.88] I have prayed that you learn to trust God with your future -[1978.88 --> 1981.28] To trust God with finding you a life partner -[1981.28 --> 1986.08] A friend that would always be by your side while you're on earth -[1986.08 --> 1988.50] Rachel -[1988.50 --> 1990.26] Honestly -[1990.26 --> 1994.46] I don't know you all that well -[1994.46 --> 1995.70] But as you know now -[1995.70 --> 1998.02] I've been praying for you for a while -[1998.02 --> 1999.88] I just didn't know it was you -[1999.88 --> 2004.62] I knew that Adam was God's child -[2004.62 --> 2008.52] I knew God had a plan for his life -[2008.52 --> 2011.66] And I somehow knew that someone like you -[2011.66 --> 2014.00] Would come around into Adam's life -[2014.00 --> 2015.94] And that's how God works -[2015.94 --> 2017.12] He's the master planner -[2017.12 --> 2020.20] He's the one who motivates us -[2020.20 --> 2022.14] The one who walks beside us -[2022.14 --> 2023.94] And the one who carries us -[2023.94 --> 2026.40] When we don't have the strength to walk on our own -[2026.40 --> 2030.18] We don't always know God's reasons or his timing -[2030.18 --> 2032.36] But as we get older -[2032.36 --> 2033.68] We sometimes get to see -[2033.68 --> 2035.68] Some of the things he had in mind -[2035.68 --> 2037.24] For me -[2037.24 --> 2039.36] This is one of those times -[2039.36 --> 2042.86] I couldn't be prouder than I am today -[2042.86 --> 2044.58] To stand up here and address it to you -[2044.58 --> 2048.66] Adam and Rachel -[2048.66 --> 2052.90] I'm happy beyond words that God put the two of you together -[2052.90 --> 2055.32] I have no doubt that he would -[2055.32 --> 2056.12] And he did -[2056.12 --> 2059.80] And likewise I have no doubt -[2059.80 --> 2063.02] That he will be with the both of you in your marriage -[2063.02 --> 2068.04] And now as you stand here publicly and share your faith -[2068.04 --> 2072.42] And that you will strive to keep God as the center of your lives -[2072.42 --> 2074.56] I have no doubt -[2074.56 --> 2076.96] That you will grow in faith -[2076.96 --> 2079.32] And learn to trust in the master -[2079.32 --> 2080.26] I have no doubt -[2080.26 --> 2084.24] That you will learn to start and end your days with God -[2084.24 --> 2085.66] I have no doubt -[2085.66 --> 2088.22] That you will learn to lean on God -[2088.22 --> 2089.22] Through your struggles -[2089.22 --> 2091.36] I have no doubt -[2091.36 --> 2093.32] That when the two of you -[2093.32 --> 2095.68] Have trouble seeing eye to eye -[2095.68 --> 2097.18] That you will look God in the eye -[2097.18 --> 2099.40] And God will look back at you -[2099.40 --> 2100.38] In your eyes -[2100.38 --> 2102.14] With his favor -[2102.14 --> 2104.22] Because he loves the both of you so much -[2104.22 --> 2106.80] I have no doubt -[2106.80 --> 2109.20] That God will teach you to love -[2109.20 --> 2111.82] And that love is something you give -[2111.82 --> 2113.74] Or it has no value -[2113.74 --> 2115.64] I have no doubt -[2115.64 --> 2118.32] That you will learn to be vessels of God's love -[2118.32 --> 2120.36] And no doubt that you will learn -[2120.36 --> 2121.48] The more you give -[2121.48 --> 2122.84] From your heart -[2122.84 --> 2124.12] The more you will -[2124.12 --> 2126.00] The more God will bless you -[2126.00 --> 2127.96] I have no doubt -[2127.96 --> 2130.18] That through your good works -[2130.18 --> 2133.10] You will plant seeds of faith in others -[2133.10 --> 2135.94] Just as you plant crops in your fields -[2135.94 --> 2136.82] And watch them grow -[2136.82 --> 2139.58] I have -[2139.58 --> 2142.28] A prayer for both of you -[2142.28 --> 2146.40] Some of you have heard it before -[2146.40 --> 2149.58] Adam and Rachel -[2149.58 --> 2152.12] May you see with your eyes -[2152.12 --> 2153.44] May you hear with your ears -[2153.44 --> 2155.84] May you learn to quiet the noises around you -[2155.84 --> 2157.76] Quiet the thoughts in your minds -[2157.76 --> 2158.54] And know this -[2158.54 --> 2160.62] God doesn't leave you -[2160.62 --> 2162.52] God won't punish you -[2162.52 --> 2164.32] And God doesn't forget you -[2164.32 --> 2166.70] He's carried the cross for you -[2166.70 --> 2167.74] So you wouldn't have to -[2167.74 --> 2168.82] Young there and died -[2168.82 --> 2170.22] So you wouldn't have to bear it -[2170.22 --> 2170.92] And he rose -[2170.92 --> 2172.68] So you can live with him -[2172.68 --> 2173.72] He calls your names -[2173.72 --> 2175.18] Adam and Rachel -[2175.18 --> 2177.30] So listen in silence -[2177.30 --> 2178.64] You will hear him calling -[2178.64 --> 2179.64] Listen -[2179.64 --> 2180.88] You will hear him whisper -[2180.88 --> 2182.02] In the quiet of the night -[2182.02 --> 2183.92] You'll hear it from the depths of your pains -[2183.92 --> 2184.98] You see -[2184.98 --> 2186.32] God can only use you -[2186.32 --> 2188.36] When you are in need of him -[2188.36 --> 2190.70] And with his arms wide open -[2190.70 --> 2192.16] He calls you by your names -[2192.16 --> 2195.02] So let this be my prayer to you -[2195.02 --> 2197.18] You will remain his child -[2197.18 --> 2198.42] You will become strong -[2198.42 --> 2200.04] You will become powerful -[2200.04 --> 2200.98] In Jesus name -[2200.98 --> 2201.82] Take his spirit -[2201.82 --> 2203.76] He left it here for you -[2203.76 --> 2205.26] Take hold and never let go -[2205.26 --> 2206.62] God will always love you -[2206.62 --> 2208.54] He will always fill your voice -[2208.54 --> 2212.30] Sorry -[2212.30 --> 2213.92] And he will -[2213.92 --> 2214.72] And you will -[2214.72 --> 2216.82] And he will show you the path -[2216.82 --> 2218.30] And you will always be his children -[2218.30 --> 2221.20] May the grace of God fill you up -[2221.20 --> 2222.98] May the love of God fill your void -[2222.98 --> 2225.18] May the peace of God fill your mind -[2225.18 --> 2226.14] With songs of love -[2226.14 --> 2228.00] Take his spirit and run -[2228.00 --> 2229.36] Nothing can stop you now -[2229.36 --> 2230.14] Amen -[2230.14 --> 2232.28] Trust in him to change your heart -[2232.28 --> 2233.90] Love others as you love yourselves -[2233.90 --> 2235.24] Take his spirit and run -[2235.24 --> 2237.32] Nothing is stopping you now -[2237.32 --> 2239.70] May the grace of God fill you up -[2239.70 --> 2241.56] May the love of God fill your hearts -[2241.56 --> 2244.56] May the peace of God fill your minds -[2244.56 --> 2245.66] With songs and joy -[2245.66 --> 2247.82] Take his spirit and run -[2247.82 --> 2250.24] Nothing is going to stop you now -[2250.24 --> 2252.10] Nothing will stop you now -[2252.10 --> 2254.02] And nothing can stop you now -[2254.02 --> 2255.02] Amen -[2255.02 --> 2263.36] Thanks John -[2263.36 --> 2273.34] I'm not going to take too much time -[2273.34 --> 2275.36] And add more than what John has said -[2275.36 --> 2277.50] But Rachel did ask -[2277.50 --> 2278.44] If I would be the one -[2278.44 --> 2280.02] Who speaks on her behalf -[2280.02 --> 2282.84] I've gotten to know Adam and Rachel -[2282.84 --> 2285.86] In part through pre-marriage counseling -[2285.86 --> 2287.80] And the things that were said there -[2287.80 --> 2288.40] Are confidential -[2288.40 --> 2290.24] So there's no stories coming out of that -[2290.24 --> 2293.66] And I also got to know Adam and Rachel -[2293.66 --> 2297.92] As they participated in a Christianity Explored class -[2297.92 --> 2300.06] With me and a group of other people -[2300.06 --> 2302.40] Where we dug into -[2302.40 --> 2309.16] We dug into the foundational truths -[2309.16 --> 2311.02] Of our Christian faith together -[2311.02 --> 2314.18] And one thing I learned very quickly -[2314.18 --> 2316.92] Is that Rachel is not afraid -[2316.92 --> 2319.88] To ask any question that comes on her mind -[2319.88 --> 2323.92] And she's always not the most couth -[2323.92 --> 2326.06] About how she asks those questions -[2326.06 --> 2329.82] And I'm going to be honest with you -[2329.82 --> 2333.30] I love that about Rachel -[2333.30 --> 2335.38] If you know me -[2335.38 --> 2336.74] Or if you've been in any teaching -[2336.74 --> 2337.52] That I have done -[2337.52 --> 2340.58] I depend on questions like that -[2340.58 --> 2342.80] To drive our time together forward -[2342.80 --> 2344.52] And so when you find someone -[2344.52 --> 2346.48] Who's genuinely interested -[2346.48 --> 2348.10] Who's genuinely engaged -[2348.10 --> 2350.56] And who wants to learn -[2350.56 --> 2352.66] It is a beautiful experience -[2352.66 --> 2353.86] For the rest of us in the room -[2353.86 --> 2356.64] And so thank you for your vulnerability in that -[2356.64 --> 2359.18] And for your time in our class -[2359.18 --> 2360.94] And for letting me get to know you -[2360.94 --> 2362.54] And I'll stop making eye contact with you -[2362.54 --> 2363.46] Because I know you told me -[2363.46 --> 2364.38] That that would make you cry -[2364.38 --> 2367.74] We are here today -[2367.74 --> 2370.86] Because God is at work in and through us -[2370.86 --> 2373.54] And we mark that with this profession of faith -[2373.54 --> 2374.56] And so I'm going to invite you guys -[2374.56 --> 2375.40] Back up to the front -[2375.40 --> 2377.72] I'm going to ask you four questions -[2377.72 --> 2380.76] And invite you to respond -[2380.76 --> 2383.78] You know the response -[2383.78 --> 2385.80] I do with God's help -[2385.80 --> 2388.12] But we'll get there -[2388.12 --> 2389.74] Before we do that -[2389.74 --> 2391.20] And while you're standing here -[2391.20 --> 2392.14] I just wanted to share -[2392.14 --> 2394.04] One scripture verse with you -[2394.04 --> 2395.04] Nicely done -[2395.04 --> 2395.92] If you missed that -[2395.92 --> 2396.88] I'm going to point this out -[2396.88 --> 2398.60] She just ripped the tag off -[2398.60 --> 2399.88] Of Adam's brand new shirt -[2399.88 --> 2404.68] Oh it's the recycle tag even -[2404.68 --> 2405.52] Excellent -[2405.52 --> 2408.96] All of this fits so perfectly -[2408.96 --> 2410.40] I'm glad we got to witness it -[2410.40 --> 2415.22] In 1 John 3 -[2415.22 --> 2417.64] The apostle writes -[2417.64 --> 2421.00] See what great love the Father has lavished on us -[2421.00 --> 2423.72] That we should be called children of God -[2423.72 --> 2426.62] And that is what we are -[2426.62 --> 2429.40] Share that with you -[2429.40 --> 2431.86] Because that is what you are -[2431.86 --> 2436.42] Lavishly loved children of God our Father -[2436.42 --> 2441.44] That truth has always been declared over you -[2441.44 --> 2444.64] And now you stand in its truth -[2444.64 --> 2446.38] In your profession of faith -[2446.38 --> 2449.02] And so we're going to ask you four questions -[2449.02 --> 2451.86] To mark this profession today -[2451.86 --> 2454.18] And so Adam and Rachel -[2454.18 --> 2457.10] Do you believe that Jesus Christ -[2457.10 --> 2458.32] Is the Son of God -[2458.32 --> 2459.56] Sent to redeem the world? -[2460.36 --> 2461.80] Do you love and trust Him -[2461.80 --> 2463.62] As the one who saves you from your sin? -[2463.62 --> 2465.46] And do you with repentance and joy -[2465.46 --> 2467.68] Embrace Him as Lord of your life? -[2468.64 --> 2468.94] 2 -[2468.94 --> 2470.86] Do you believe that the Bible -[2470.86 --> 2471.76] Is the word of God -[2471.76 --> 2473.34] Revealing Christ and His redemption -[2473.34 --> 2475.22] And that the confessions of this church -[2475.22 --> 2477.00] Faithfully reflect this revelation? -[2478.34 --> 2478.90] 3 -[2478.90 --> 2481.48] Do you accept the gracious promises of God -[2481.48 --> 2483.10] Sealed to you in your baptism? -[2483.56 --> 2485.08] And do you affirm your union -[2485.08 --> 2486.54] With Christ and His church -[2486.54 --> 2488.94] Which your baptism signifies? -[2488.94 --> 2490.34] 4 -[2490.34 --> 2493.04] Do you promise to do all you can -[2493.04 --> 2494.46] With the help of the Holy Spirit -[2494.46 --> 2495.74] To strengthen your love -[2495.74 --> 2496.80] And commitment to Christ -[2496.80 --> 2498.26] By sharing faithfully -[2498.26 --> 2500.14] In the life of this church family -[2500.14 --> 2502.32] Honoring and submitting to its authority -[2502.32 --> 2504.76] And do you join with the people of God -[2504.76 --> 2507.16] In doing the work of the Lord everywhere? -[2508.08 --> 2509.08] Adam, first you -[2509.08 --> 2510.02] What is your answer? -[2510.34 --> 2511.34] I do with God's help -[2511.34 --> 2513.52] And Rachel, what is your answer? -[2513.86 --> 2514.94] I do with God's help -[2514.94 --> 2515.74] Amen -[2515.74 --> 2516.82] Amen -[2516.82 --> 2522.68] In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ -[2522.68 --> 2526.02] I now welcome you to the privileges of -[2526.02 --> 2528.14] Full communion, full fellowship -[2528.14 --> 2530.18] In the life of this body -[2530.18 --> 2532.16] I welcome you to full participation -[2532.16 --> 2533.76] In the life of this church -[2533.76 --> 2534.94] To its responsibilities -[2534.94 --> 2537.30] Its joys and its sufferings -[2537.30 --> 2539.32] May the God of peace -[2539.32 --> 2541.14] Who through the blood of the eternal covenant -[2541.14 --> 2542.26] Brought back from the dead -[2542.26 --> 2543.84] Our Lord Jesus Christ -[2543.84 --> 2545.40] The great shepherd of the sheep -[2545.40 --> 2547.48] Equip you with everything good -[2547.48 --> 2548.88] For doing his will -[2548.88 --> 2550.64] And may he work in us -[2550.64 --> 2552.08] What is pleasing to him -[2552.08 --> 2553.94] Through Jesus Christ our Lord -[2553.94 --> 2556.64] To him be the glory forever and ever -[2556.64 --> 2557.82] And all God's people said -[2557.82 --> 2558.48] Amen -[2558.48 --> 2561.80] Congregation, church family -[2561.80 --> 2563.10] I'm going to invite you to stand -[2563.10 --> 2565.36] Because you also have a part to play -[2565.36 --> 2568.62] In this ongoing story of God at work -[2568.62 --> 2571.04] And so I'm going to ask you a question -[2571.04 --> 2572.72] You see it there on the screen -[2572.72 --> 2575.42] And invite you to respond -[2575.42 --> 2578.68] With the words there -[2578.68 --> 2582.52] Do you, people of God -[2582.52 --> 2585.06] Promise Adam and Rachel -[2585.06 --> 2588.54] Your love, encouragement, and prayers? -[2588.54 --> 2596.14] See there was some editing actions -[2596.14 --> 2596.78] Going on there -[2596.78 --> 2601.70] I'm going to, at this time -[2601.70 --> 2602.50] You may have a seat -[2602.50 --> 2604.16] Invite Daryl Wind -[2604.16 --> 2605.18] To come up to the front -[2605.18 --> 2607.30] He is an elder in our church -[2607.30 --> 2608.74] He's just going to congratulate you -[2608.74 --> 2609.70] He has a certificate -[2609.70 --> 2610.96] That marks this occasion -[2610.96 --> 2613.44] And two gifts for you -[2613.44 --> 2619.14] Because you have so much free time, Adam -[2619.14 --> 2620.72] I thought I'd give you two books to read -[2620.72 --> 2632.64] At this time -[2632.64 --> 2634.10] We're also going to pray over you guys -[2634.10 --> 2634.94] And so I'm going to ask you -[2634.94 --> 2636.18] Just to come down to the front -[2636.18 --> 2637.92] In the center of the stage there -[2637.92 --> 2640.42] That's what pockets are for -[2640.42 --> 2641.88] I know you don't have pockets -[2641.88 --> 2642.96] That's why he has pockets -[2642.96 --> 2643.28] Yeah -[2643.28 --> 2645.94] And I'm also going to invite -[2645.94 --> 2648.08] Any elders or family members -[2648.08 --> 2649.36] Mentors, leaders -[2649.36 --> 2651.12] People who have journeyed -[2651.12 --> 2652.24] With Adam and Rachel -[2652.24 --> 2653.14] Together -[2653.14 --> 2654.36] To come on up to the front -[2654.36 --> 2656.10] We're going to lay hands on them -[2656.10 --> 2657.56] In our prayer together -[2657.56 --> 2661.78] If you remain seated -[2661.78 --> 2662.86] And are so moved -[2662.86 --> 2663.50] We encourage you -[2663.50 --> 2664.48] Just to hold out your hand -[2664.48 --> 2666.02] As a sign that the Spirit too -[2666.02 --> 2667.52] Is moving in our midst -[2667.52 --> 2668.84] And flowing through us all -[2668.84 --> 2670.12] To Adam and Rachel -[2670.12 --> 2670.68] Here together -[2670.68 --> 2673.50] Let's pray -[2673.50 --> 2678.16] Lord our God -[2678.16 --> 2680.32] We thank you for your word -[2680.32 --> 2681.24] And your Spirit -[2681.24 --> 2682.26] Through which we know -[2682.26 --> 2683.14] Jesus Christ -[2683.14 --> 2684.38] As Lord and Savior -[2684.38 --> 2686.86] May Adam and Rachel -[2686.86 --> 2688.26] In their profession today -[2688.26 --> 2689.50] Never cease to wonder -[2689.50 --> 2691.00] At what you have done for them -[2691.00 --> 2693.32] Help them to continue -[2693.32 --> 2694.76] Firmly in the faith -[2694.76 --> 2696.76] To bear witness to your love -[2696.76 --> 2698.06] And to let the Holy Spirit -[2698.06 --> 2699.00] Shape their lives -[2699.00 --> 2700.22] In all that they do -[2700.22 --> 2701.82] Take Adam -[2701.82 --> 2702.72] And take Rachel -[2702.72 --> 2703.28] Good Shepherd -[2703.28 --> 2704.70] Into your care -[2704.70 --> 2705.52] That they may -[2705.52 --> 2706.80] Loyally endure -[2706.80 --> 2708.34] Opposition in serving you -[2708.34 --> 2709.56] And may we -[2709.56 --> 2710.72] With all your children -[2710.72 --> 2711.40] Live together -[2711.40 --> 2712.04] In the joy -[2712.04 --> 2712.92] And the power -[2712.92 --> 2714.24] Of your Holy Spirit -[2714.24 --> 2715.86] We ask this -[2715.86 --> 2716.42] Lord Jesus -[2716.42 --> 2717.16] In the hope -[2717.16 --> 2718.48] Of your coming again -[2718.48 --> 2719.70] Amen -[2719.70 --> 2721.06] Amen -[2721.06 --> 2745.54] Please stand and join us -[2745.54 --> 2746.24] In song together -[2746.24 --> 2747.20] As we celebrate -[2747.20 --> 2748.48] Adam and Rachel's -[2748.48 --> 2749.38] Profession of faith -[2749.38 --> 2779.38] -[2779.38 --> 2786.20] This my only comfort in my life and in my death -[2786.20 --> 2792.44] You have fully paid for all my sins and all my debt -[2792.44 --> 2796.96] And even when I struggle to believe -[2796.96 --> 2803.06] With your precious blood you set me free -[2803.06 --> 2815.36] I am not my own but belong body and soul -[2815.36 --> 2828.76] In my life and in death to you Lord Christ my Lord -[2828.76 --> 2834.80] You've preserved my life in such a way that without you -[2834.80 --> 2841.04] Not a hair can fall from me unless you will it too -[2841.04 --> 2846.32] Even when I'm lost in desperation -[2846.32 --> 2852.36] All things work together for my salvation -[2852.36 --> 2863.92] I am not my own but belong body and soul -[2863.92 --> 2876.36] In my life and in death to you Lord Christ my Lord -[2876.36 --> 2906.34] Always by your Holy Spirit you assure me -[2906.34 --> 2912.82] Of eternal life and make me willing and ready -[2912.82 --> 2917.86] Even when I can't see my way through -[2917.86 --> 2923.94] From now on to always live for you -[2923.94 --> 2937.38] I am not my own but belong body and soul -[2937.38 --> 2949.94] In my life and in death to you Lord Christ my Lord -[2949.94 --> 2961.76] I am not my own but belong body and soul -[2961.76 --> 2974.46] In my life and in death to you Lord Christ my Lord -[2974.46 --> 2986.28] I am not my own but belong body and soul -[2986.28 --> 2999.46] In my life and in death to you Lord Christ my Lord -[2999.46 --> 3009.48] I am not my own but belong body and soul -[3009.48 --> 3011.28] In my life and soul -[3011.28 --> 3013.46] I am not my own but belong body and soul -[3013.46 --> 3031.84] It is on. -[3032.66 --> 3033.22] Good morning. -[3033.72 --> 3036.06] My name is Clem, and I'm one of the deacons here. -[3036.06 --> 3044.12] Before I start the offering, I notice there's a lot of jackets and stuff out in the foyer. -[3045.20 --> 3050.28] Dina Nikolai from First Christian Reformed Church in Vancouver called me last night -[3050.28 --> 3055.16] and expressed her thankfulness for your giving. -[3055.50 --> 3058.76] You heard the cry, and you guys answered the cry once again. -[3059.14 --> 3060.30] So thank you very much. -[3060.30 --> 3067.76] Okay, the first offering is for the church budget and ministries. -[3068.68 --> 3072.76] If you would like to make certain that your donation is going to the first offering, -[3073.28 --> 3075.30] it needs to be marked as budget. -[3075.82 --> 3078.58] You can use an envelope to indicate this. -[3080.38 --> 3084.18] There are envelopes in the backs of some of the chairs in front of you. -[3084.18 --> 3088.42] The reason for this is that we only pass along one bag, -[3088.94 --> 3092.40] and cash and coupons all go to the special offering. -[3094.64 --> 3099.62] The special offering today is for Cascade Christian Counseling, -[3100.28 --> 3105.30] a nonprofit that has provided affordable counseling for close to 40 years. -[3105.98 --> 3110.16] They offer a faith-based approach to helping clients heal. -[3110.16 --> 3114.98] The counselors are Christians and will work from a Christian worldview. -[3116.62 --> 3120.50] They utilize their own faith to lead in the counseling process. -[3121.06 --> 3125.96] Their hope is that you will feel cared for, heard, and deeply understood. -[3127.00 --> 3132.26] The word counsel appears 133 times throughout the books of the Bible. -[3132.26 --> 3140.42] At this point, I usually like to include a verse at the end of the special offering, -[3140.70 --> 3143.22] and it speaks to the special offering. -[3143.76 --> 3149.36] So 1 Thessalonians 5, verse 14. -[3149.96 --> 3154.64] And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the faint-hearted, -[3155.34 --> 3158.12] help the weak, and be patient with them all. -[3158.12 --> 3177.56] Before you I kneel, my Master and Maker, -[3178.56 --> 3182.12] to offer the work of my hands, -[3182.12 --> 3188.18] For this is the day you've given your servant. -[3189.32 --> 3193.46] I will rejoice and be God. -[3193.98 --> 3198.12] For the strength I have to live and breathe, -[3199.34 --> 3204.12] for each skill your grace has given me, -[3204.12 --> 3212.82] For the needs and opportunities that will glorify your reign. -[3212.82 --> 3212.84] For the needs and opportunities that will glorify your reign. -[3222.52 --> 3228.46] Before you I kneel and ask for your goodness, -[3228.46 --> 3233.54] To cover the work of my hands, -[3233.54 --> 3236.22] For patience and peace, -[3236.22 --> 3239.12] To shape all my labor, -[3240.06 --> 3244.26] Your grace for thorns in my path, -[3244.74 --> 3249.48] Flow within me like a living stream, -[3250.16 --> 3254.72] Wear away the stones of pride and greed, -[3254.72 --> 3259.74] Till your ways are dwelling deep in me, -[3259.74 --> 3264.10] And the harvest of life is grown. -[3264.10 --> 3264.80] For the Bethany andek, -[3264.80 --> 3264.94] Go along. -[3264.94 --> 3265.92] For Sext light on me like a living stream, -[3265.92 --> 3267.06] andly nature willkinate new country. -[3267.68 --> 3268.12] I will surround you with my needs andсти, -[3268.12 --> 3268.80] Through the needs and pride. -[3269.00 --> 3269.86] For the needs and i'm so blessed, -[3269.86 --> 3270.92] For the needs and alerts, -[3270.92 --> 3275.26] Give Meg -[3276.70 --> 3277.10] How one ranks, -[3280.04 --> 3282.94] To make more hopes and peace, -[3282.94 --> 3286.90] A lifetime of dreams will this hongure. -[3287.74 --> 3292.36] Where and�� are the ones in the long-game room. -[3292.36 --> 3322.34] Thank you. -[3322.36 --> 3352.34] Thank you. -[3352.36 --> 3354.36] Thank you. -[3382.36 --> 3384.36] Thank you. -[3392.36 --> 3393.28] Good morning. -[3393.42 --> 3394.46] Time for Kids' Corner. -[3394.64 --> 3399.26] We get to see the kids age three to grade four. -[3399.36 --> 3399.96] Come on up. -[3399.96 --> 3410.20] Good morning. -[3413.14 --> 3414.06] Good morning. -[3415.64 --> 3419.12] I think the people in the back of the church want to make sure that you guys are all okay, -[3419.22 --> 3421.30] so when I say good morning, do you think you guys can be loud? -[3422.34 --> 3423.22] Good morning. -[3423.22 --> 3423.48] Good morning. -[3424.82 --> 3426.02] That's a bit better. -[3427.20 --> 3429.68] Hey, today I got a question for you guys. -[3430.78 --> 3433.94] Can you think of anything that is never ending? -[3435.70 --> 3436.18] What? -[3438.34 --> 3439.20] The sea? -[3439.54 --> 3440.16] The sky? -[3440.66 --> 3441.42] That's a good one. -[3442.80 --> 3443.48] God's love? -[3443.54 --> 3446.08] We're going to talk about that today, so you got the answer right away. -[3446.08 --> 3446.86] That's pretty good. -[3448.02 --> 3448.80] Anything else? -[3449.00 --> 3451.96] Can you think of something that you want to never end? -[3453.88 --> 3454.24] What? -[3455.94 --> 3456.26] Rainbows. -[3456.68 --> 3457.30] How about you? -[3458.68 --> 3460.56] Your dog Chase, you want him to live forever? -[3460.76 --> 3461.44] That's a good one. -[3461.56 --> 3461.88] How about you? -[3463.26 --> 3465.18] He wants candy to last forever. -[3465.32 --> 3466.04] That's a good one. -[3466.58 --> 3470.26] How about like on your birthday, like you're having your birthday day and you're having all kinds of fun. -[3470.30 --> 3473.08] Do you ever think, oh, I hope this day never ends. -[3473.14 --> 3473.64] Do you have that? -[3474.56 --> 3477.94] Or when you're going camping or something with your family and you're having so much fun, -[3478.00 --> 3479.54] you're like, oh, I hope this never ends. -[3481.58 --> 3482.58] You get presents. -[3482.78 --> 3483.64] Your friends are over. -[3484.20 --> 3484.50] Yeah. -[3485.32 --> 3485.96] How about you? -[3487.40 --> 3488.80] Christmas, you want that to never end? -[3488.84 --> 3489.38] How about yourself? -[3494.54 --> 3495.10] That's right. -[3495.10 --> 3496.52] You want your pets to live forever. -[3497.32 --> 3499.24] We'll do more later in the room. -[3499.36 --> 3502.96] I bet you some parents have some things they would wish they would never end either. -[3503.18 --> 3506.82] Like, you know, like some dads maybe like fishing and they wish a fishing day would never end. -[3507.32 --> 3508.12] Those kind of things. -[3508.54 --> 3509.22] How about your mom? -[3509.30 --> 3512.88] Has she ever gone for a massage and she comes home and says, oh, I wish that would never end? -[3513.14 --> 3513.42] Yeah? -[3513.66 --> 3514.34] Does that? -[3514.72 --> 3515.18] Right on. -[3515.86 --> 3516.20] Okay. -[3517.00 --> 3518.26] Why don't you guys all stand up? -[3518.32 --> 3519.14] We're going to do the blessing. -[3519.24 --> 3520.68] If the congregation can join us. -[3520.68 --> 3521.68] Okay. -[3521.68 --> 3525.20] You guys ready? -[3525.94 --> 3528.42] Lord be with you. -[3528.76 --> 3530.34] And also with you. -[3530.34 --> 3555.12] Good morning, church. -[3555.12 --> 3556.78] I like that greeting. -[3556.92 --> 3558.12] I think I'm going to keep using it. -[3558.44 --> 3559.00] Thank you, Adam. -[3560.66 --> 3561.80] My name is Dave. -[3561.90 --> 3563.82] I'm one of the elders at this church. -[3564.34 --> 3567.28] A few announcements before I begin our church family prayer. -[3567.92 --> 3569.94] Thank you to everyone who came out to the AGM. -[3570.58 --> 3576.48] Congratulations to John for winning the first annual Tri-Soup Tournament with the delicious cream of mushroom soup. -[3576.48 --> 3581.54] Congratulations to the runners-up, Maria Nguyen and Andre Wong. -[3582.12 --> 3583.66] Thank you for everyone who made soup. -[3584.00 --> 3590.14] The proposed budget for 2024 was passed and we heard ministry stories from the men's meeting group and from Coffee Break. -[3590.92 --> 3597.00] God continues to bless our church family and we are grateful for everyone's participation in the life and the mission of Emmanuel. -[3598.66 --> 3602.14] The formal sign-up for Mexico mission trip starts today. -[3602.14 --> 3609.40] This is a trip that goes in March to Rosarito and Tijuana, Mexico to work with ministry partners there. -[3610.04 --> 3612.44] Youth grade 10 and older are encouraged to sign up. -[3613.12 --> 3615.60] Adults who want to sign up will not be turned away. -[3617.60 --> 3621.28] Youth coffee is after church at Eric and Jackie Hubert's. -[3621.28 --> 3651.26] Youth coffee is after church at Eric and Jackie Hubert's. -[3651.28 --> 3652.28] Youth coffee is after church at Eric and Jackie Hubert's. -[3652.28 --> 3654.32] Father, it is good for us to be here. -[3654.96 --> 3660.60] We gather with the church here, with the church everywhere, to sing praises and to hear your word. -[3661.20 --> 3665.68] We celebrate that the church's one foundation is Jesus Christ, our Lord. -[3667.04 --> 3669.58] Father, we confess that we have sinned. -[3669.92 --> 3673.14] We have fallen short of your glory and of Christ's example. -[3673.76 --> 3675.48] We have sinned against each other. -[3676.02 --> 3677.24] We have sinned against you. -[3677.24 --> 3683.50] We confess that like our first parents in the garden, we have put our own selfish ambitions first -[3683.50 --> 3687.50] at the expense of our relationship with the creation and our walk with you. -[3688.66 --> 3692.84] Father, we thank you that we do not have to bear the burden of our sin and guilt, -[3693.24 --> 3698.74] that you have sent your son to bear our sin, and that we don't have to bear it anymore. -[3698.74 --> 3707.78] Father, it is good for us to gather on this first Sunday of Advent where we think the coming of Emmanuel, God with us. -[3708.50 --> 3715.00] We think of the Old Testament people walking in darkness who have seen a great light. -[3715.64 --> 3720.56] We hear the good news that to us a child is born and to us a son is given. -[3720.56 --> 3726.46] We thank you for that great gift, for the great gift of your son, and we look to him. -[3726.98 --> 3735.18] O come, O come, Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel that mourns in lonely exile here until the son of God appear. -[3738.10 --> 3741.44] Father, on this Sunday of Advent, we focus on the message of peace, -[3741.62 --> 3745.02] and we look around the world around us and we see a great lack of it. -[3745.16 --> 3747.64] We see a world that truly does need your peace. -[3747.64 --> 3753.82] We think of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, -[3754.46 --> 3759.20] and with all the difficulty and suffering that will happen in Israel and in Gaza because of it. -[3759.74 --> 3767.90] We pray that these nations will find a way to coexist and to leave peacefully with each other -[3767.90 --> 3771.66] and learn how to resolve their differences in an equitable manner. -[3772.06 --> 3777.62] We think of the other war that we don't think about as often anymore because we're talking about another one. -[3777.64 --> 3782.72] We think about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine with Russia with so many innocent victims there, -[3782.82 --> 3784.14] and we don't see an end in sight. -[3784.68 --> 3787.70] We know there's many places in the world that are experiencing conflict, -[3788.00 --> 3790.28] and it's difficult to keep track of them all. -[3790.82 --> 3795.34] And in this Christmas time, help us to remember all those who are suffering. -[3795.74 --> 3797.88] We pray for your peace upon them all. -[3797.88 --> 3802.94] Father, we thank you for the profession of faith that we can hear from Adam and Rachel, -[3803.50 --> 3809.12] for the love that they could show for you and the commitment they have towards you and towards your church. -[3810.50 --> 3813.66] Father, we think about the needs of this church community. -[3813.66 --> 3823.48] We thank you for the life of Tini Vreend and the life that she could live. -[3824.04 --> 3830.84] We pray for Brenda, for Linda, for Jodi, for all of the family who will be remembering her and grieving her passing. -[3830.84 --> 3833.76] We pray that they will feel your love and your peace. -[3834.44 --> 3838.84] We think about Alina Jepkema's brother Frank, who passed recently, -[3838.84 --> 3842.36] and the service will be held in Ontario soon. -[3842.80 --> 3847.16] We pray for that family as they go through a period of mourning and loss. -[3847.80 --> 3851.50] We think about Rosvita's neighbor and friend Chandra, who passed away recently. -[3851.98 --> 3857.34] We pray that you'll be with Rosvita and all family members who will be mourning that passing as well. -[3858.34 --> 3859.74] Father, we think about this church. -[3860.06 --> 3861.96] We have experienced a lot of funerals lately, -[3862.72 --> 3866.32] and we know that for some people that in the midst of the joy of Christmas, -[3866.32 --> 3869.62] that Christmas is often a time to mourn. -[3870.62 --> 3873.74] We think about those who are experiencing illness and need your care. -[3874.28 --> 3878.76] We think about Jerry Jansen's daughter Gonda, who will need that emergency surgery. -[3879.32 --> 3880.82] We pray that this will go well, -[3880.82 --> 3885.96] and we pray that people will come forward to take care of her husband while she's going through that. -[3886.48 --> 3890.80] We think about Dennis Kalkman, who is in hospital getting treated for diabetes. -[3891.44 --> 3894.90] We think about John Trass, who is getting some medical testing done. -[3894.90 --> 3899.70] We think of Judy Verstig's daughter, Londa Cole, who is experiencing infection. -[3900.44 --> 3903.76] We pray for Cy Visser, who is continuing to stay in the hospital. -[3904.68 --> 3911.32] We think about Jaredina Jansen's granddaughter, Christina, who has been diagnosed with lupus. -[3911.88 --> 3915.46] We think about all of those who are dealing with illness and uncertainty. -[3916.20 --> 3921.38] We pray for those who will be giving them their medical care and meeting all of their needs. -[3921.38 --> 3925.20] We pray that they will feel your comfort and your strength. -[3926.04 --> 3933.10] Father, we pray for us as we carry on in this time of praise and of worship and of hearing your word. -[3933.94 --> 3937.44] Come, thou long-expected Jesus, born to set thy people free. -[3937.94 --> 3939.96] From our fears and sins release us. -[3940.10 --> 3941.50] Let us find our rest in thee. -[3942.42 --> 3943.30] Come, Lord Jesus. -[3944.10 --> 3944.40] Amen. -[3944.40 --> 3944.50] Amen. -[3944.50 --> 3944.60] Amen. -[3951.38 --> 3951.70] Amen. -[3952.90 --> 3954.00] Thanks, David. -[3968.90 --> 3973.92] As we've already indicated, this Advent and Christmas season, -[3973.92 --> 3981.60] we are going to be looking at the traditional and liturgical words of the season. -[3981.60 --> 3989.06] And in some ways, sort of contrasting what the culture and the world around us has on offer in that regard -[3989.06 --> 3994.22] and what the Bible can really say in the truth of who Jesus is in that regard. -[3994.22 --> 3998.66] And so each week, we're going to read a particular text, -[3998.82 --> 4005.82] but really it's more of a survey of an idea as the Bible presents it to us. -[4006.10 --> 4011.36] And so I'm going to read with you from Isaiah 9, verse 2 through 7. -[4011.50 --> 4013.40] And so if you have a Bible, you can open that up. -[4013.44 --> 4014.12] You can read along. -[4014.90 --> 4015.92] It will be on the screen. -[4016.04 --> 4018.04] But we'll be doing some moving and bouncing. -[4018.04 --> 4025.46] And for the better part of that, that will be on the screen and will help us dig into this idea. -[4026.32 --> 4029.48] So let's start together by reading from Isaiah 9. -[4033.06 --> 4036.32] The people walking in darkness have seen a great light. -[4036.88 --> 4041.08] On those living in the land of deep darkness, a light has dawned. -[4041.90 --> 4044.82] You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy. -[4044.82 --> 4052.22] They rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as warriors rejoice when dividing the plunder. -[4053.34 --> 4057.96] For as in the day of Midian's defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, -[4058.30 --> 4061.54] the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. -[4062.44 --> 4067.96] Every warrior's boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, -[4068.34 --> 4069.74] will be fuel for the fire. -[4069.74 --> 4077.06] For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders, -[4077.06 --> 4083.68] and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. -[4084.46 --> 4089.38] Of the greatness of his government and peace, there will be no end. -[4090.28 --> 4093.94] He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, -[4093.94 --> 4101.18] establishing it and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. -[4101.78 --> 4105.68] The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this. -[4106.20 --> 4107.32] This is the word of the Lord. -[4107.32 --> 4117.42] So I don't know if you've noticed, but it's that time of year again. -[4118.84 --> 4126.24] In fact, as soon as Remembrance Day passed, for some of us as soon as Thanksgiving passed, -[4126.64 --> 4130.54] we noticed pretty quickly it's that time of year again, -[4130.54 --> 4139.70] as radio stations and stores and places immediately shift into full-on Christmas propaganda mode. -[4140.70 --> 4147.16] At least that's what it feels like to some of us who have a rule that you have to wait for Advent -[4147.16 --> 4150.96] in order for Christmas and that season to properly start. -[4151.32 --> 4156.00] Now we have that rule not for fancy liturgical reasons like you might suspect of a pastor, -[4156.00 --> 4161.96] but because my daughter's birthday is November 27, and she says no Christmas before her birthday. -[4162.98 --> 4165.38] And so it usually falls then to Advent. -[4165.92 --> 4169.06] Although I'm going to be honest with you, Rachel found a loophole this year, -[4169.14 --> 4171.86] and I can tell you because Nora's in the nursery and she's not here, -[4172.30 --> 4175.90] Rachel has said this is winter decoration, not Christmas decoration. -[4179.58 --> 4182.54] But it is that time of year again. -[4182.54 --> 4197.68] And as we enter into this season, it always strikes me the attempt that our culture makes -[4197.68 --> 4207.76] to offer something meaningful and veiled in a nebulous sort of spiritual language. -[4207.76 --> 4215.78] And even more so, when I was really young, there was the whole debate about Christmas or X-mas -[4215.78 --> 4217.46] and keeping Christ in Christmas. -[4217.72 --> 4223.58] What people didn't realize, of course, is that X is the Greek letter key, which is the symbol for Christ. -[4223.74 --> 4226.10] And so even X-mas is keeping Christ in Christmas. -[4226.32 --> 4230.54] But that debate doesn't exist anymore because people aren't concerned with a, quote, -[4230.70 --> 4235.74] secular Christmas so much as they are a spiritual Christmas. -[4235.74 --> 4238.20] But what on earth does that even mean? -[4240.12 --> 4246.26] What I hope that we're going to see as we dig into these themes of Advent of peace, hope, joy, and love, -[4246.66 --> 4253.94] that what the world has on offer for us pales in comparison -[4253.94 --> 4262.54] to what God brings in the coming of Jesus, in Emmanuel, in Christmas season together. -[4262.54 --> 4268.90] Now, this text from Isaiah 9 is probably very familiar to many of you. -[4269.76 --> 4276.22] I can't read this text and a bunch of others without hearing Handel's Messiah coursing through my brain -[4276.22 --> 4277.86] as we read them. -[4278.58 --> 4282.76] It's a regular part of the rhythms and liturgy of Advent. -[4282.76 --> 4292.76] Now, really quickly, let me just map it out for you so that we can dig into this idea of peace on offer. -[4294.00 --> 4301.04] Isaiah begins in a place of remembering the darkness that once was, -[4301.44 --> 4303.24] the place where the people were, -[4303.68 --> 4309.38] the distance from God that they had experienced in the wilderness and in conflict. -[4309.38 --> 4314.80] But now, these people walking in darkness have seen a great light. -[4314.92 --> 4317.74] That is, God is doing something among them. -[4318.92 --> 4322.30] And these people have grown in response to God's work, -[4322.42 --> 4326.12] and they've been blessed in response to God being among them. -[4326.46 --> 4330.58] Their nation has grown, and their joy with that has grown. -[4330.58 --> 4337.56] Isaiah recalls the defeats of enemies to the point where, in verse 5, he says, -[4338.26 --> 4344.72] every warrior's boot used in battle, every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, -[4345.32 --> 4346.96] will be fuel for the fire. -[4348.02 --> 4351.68] And what he means there is that there's no more need for it. -[4352.46 --> 4355.86] It's fuel for the fire because we don't need warrior's clothes anymore. -[4356.32 --> 4358.54] This is a new era, a new time. -[4358.54 --> 4366.78] Now, this new era and this new time in history is marked, Isaiah says, by a son. -[4367.74 --> 4369.50] For to us, a child is born. -[4369.62 --> 4371.62] To us, a son is given. -[4372.38 --> 4374.62] And this isn't just any son. -[4375.18 --> 4376.90] The government will be on his shoulders, -[4377.04 --> 4384.92] and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. -[4384.92 --> 4393.66] Now, for our time together this morning, it's that last title that I want us to key in on, right? -[4393.80 --> 4395.30] Prince of Peace. -[4395.68 --> 4399.92] What does it mean that this son is called the Prince of Peace? -[4400.62 --> 4405.32] What does it mean that this child to be born, or of this child to be born, -[4405.32 --> 4411.28] it is said, of his greatness and government and peace there will be no end? -[4411.28 --> 4420.04] So, when the Bible talks about peace, and when the Bible talks about this promised son, -[4420.44 --> 4425.30] who we believe to be Jesus, born at Christmas, being the Prince of Peace, -[4425.44 --> 4428.58] what does that mean for us today? -[4429.22 --> 4434.20] What does that mean for people who profess to be Jesus' disciples in the 21st century? -[4434.20 --> 4438.20] What is this peace, and how do we get it? -[4439.94 --> 4446.36] The theme this morning, the big idea for us is to see, Lord willing, -[4446.50 --> 4449.76] that biblical peace, that peace in the Bible, -[4450.16 --> 4456.18] is not the absence or the end of conflict, though it might include that, -[4456.18 --> 4465.08] but a restoration to wholeness that you carry into every brokenness. -[4466.42 --> 4469.58] Peace in the Bible doesn't mean the absence or the end of conflict, -[4469.82 --> 4473.64] but it means being restored to wholeness. -[4474.70 --> 4480.60] In the Bible, peace is about so much more than a state of being without war. -[4481.40 --> 4484.48] Peace, or the Hebrew word, shalom, right? -[4484.48 --> 4488.40] If you were here for the video at the beginning, is about wholeness. -[4488.44 --> 4492.76] If we extrapolate out from that, it's about being fully human, fully alive. -[4494.46 --> 4501.46] Peace, in short, is union with God and communion with people and creation. -[4503.00 --> 4507.06] Peace is the fullness of life and ultimate satisfaction. -[4507.66 --> 4510.98] Peace is drinking deeply of the living water, -[4510.98 --> 4515.08] after which Jesus promises you will never thirst again. -[4516.36 --> 4522.76] This Advent and Christmas, we're going to look at the way that the Bible shows and reveals -[4522.76 --> 4527.60] and changes our ideas of peace and hope and joy and love. -[4527.76 --> 4535.20] And our task as preachers in this, because myself and Kevin and Josh will all be part of this for us, -[4535.20 --> 4542.90] is to paint a picture, hopefully, that you see something beautiful in each of these themes. -[4543.96 --> 4549.64] This Christmas, we're being invited into a deeper experience than what the world has to offer. -[4550.34 --> 4555.76] This Christmas, you are invited into something more. -[4557.14 --> 4559.98] C.S. Lewis talked about the deeper magic. -[4559.98 --> 4589.96] C.S. Lewis talked about the fact that the Bible says, -[4589.96 --> 4592.70] And in that moment, and in that moment of pause, -[4594.22 --> 4598.82] if you will let it be spiritual food for you to sustain you, -[4599.68 --> 4605.20] you can experience this peace in the midst of all of that busyness, -[4605.66 --> 4607.26] and in the midst of all that chaos. -[4608.94 --> 4614.50] We've heard already from our liturgy this morning that Advent is a season of waiting. -[4615.32 --> 4619.20] Waiting as the darkness is slowly pushed back more and more. -[4619.20 --> 4624.00] Each week, we wait for the light of the world to come. -[4625.50 --> 4633.28] And the what for of our waiting is directly related to the how to of our waiting. -[4633.28 --> 4641.14] And so, we wait for peace by living peace, by living shalom. -[4641.64 --> 4647.00] We wait for hope fulfilled by choosing to be hopeful. -[4647.86 --> 4653.72] We wait for eternal joy by finding joy in the moment in God. -[4653.72 --> 4654.64] Right? -[4654.70 --> 4660.30] We wait for love's culmination by living love to others. -[4660.30 --> 4668.66] Now, you've already heard me say that in our world, -[4669.60 --> 4674.02] and in our sort of modern therapeutic culture, -[4674.88 --> 4681.66] the peace that we are invited to experience usually means one of three things. -[4681.66 --> 4686.78] And I encourage you to think about how your experience or your witnessing of peace -[4686.78 --> 4691.30] relates to one of these three ways of experiencing it. -[4691.68 --> 4698.78] In the first place, peace means, obviously, a state of not war or a state of not being in conflict. -[4699.68 --> 4702.44] But that doesn't have to be a military conflict. -[4702.66 --> 4705.32] That can also be a relational peace. -[4705.96 --> 4706.20] Right? -[4706.20 --> 4710.68] We want to keep the peace in our families because life is better that way. -[4711.76 --> 4714.04] Maybe not better, but a little bit easier. -[4714.66 --> 4717.80] Well, maybe not easier, but easier to ignore. -[4718.74 --> 4721.98] You see how that slowly begins to happen when we get clarity? -[4723.34 --> 4729.24] Another way that we talk about peace is the opposite of inner turmoil. -[4730.20 --> 4730.42] Right? -[4730.42 --> 4735.92] We talk about being at peace in ourselves or in our hearts or in our minds -[4735.92 --> 4742.14] when there's no divergent or disagreeing opinions or thoughts. -[4742.98 --> 4743.64] Right? -[4743.68 --> 4747.00] We feel a sense of peace, or we can feel a sense of peace, -[4747.34 --> 4751.38] when those things are settled, when they're equal. -[4751.96 --> 4753.82] And it's when they make sense, -[4754.60 --> 4757.82] and then the feelings we have about those things -[4757.82 --> 4761.46] match the reality we are experiencing about those things, -[4761.46 --> 4766.28] and then, which then matches the reality we live out of in those things, -[4766.34 --> 4768.34] in the world, that we can have peace. -[4769.68 --> 4776.72] In this way, we talk about peace as the opposite of inner turmoil or conflict, -[4777.34 --> 4786.36] and in this way, this idea of peace is the expressed reality of personhood, -[4786.88 --> 4788.84] unique and independent. -[4788.84 --> 4792.14] Now, again, these things aren't wrong, -[4792.36 --> 4794.58] but if you have the eyes to see, -[4794.70 --> 4797.08] you can begin to see how that also gets warped -[4797.08 --> 4802.64] into a strange and other definition of peace. -[4803.60 --> 4806.94] The third way that people talk about peace in our culture -[4806.94 --> 4809.98] continues in this inner reality of being at peace, -[4809.98 --> 4811.98] but it's sometimes called inner peace. -[4813.28 --> 4814.98] This is sometimes talked about, -[4815.04 --> 4819.82] this idea of enlightenment or the achievement of zen or calm. -[4820.90 --> 4821.00] Right? -[4822.00 --> 4828.74] And this idea is really about being unbothered by the world around you. -[4829.84 --> 4833.74] And this is where inner peace becomes lived out in the world, -[4833.74 --> 4836.64] and other people can't touch your peace. -[4836.74 --> 4838.18] They can't bother your peace. -[4839.28 --> 4843.22] Now, again, it's not to say that this is wrong, -[4843.48 --> 4845.48] but it's ultimately insufficient. -[4846.96 --> 4849.06] And now, sometimes, the way that this gets manifested -[4849.06 --> 4853.44] is tied to ideas of personal sort of prosperity. -[4854.10 --> 4854.22] Right? -[4854.22 --> 4855.86] We think something like, you know, -[4855.88 --> 4858.72] if I just had that money, or if I just had that job, -[4858.98 --> 4861.00] right, then I would finally be at peace. -[4861.38 --> 4862.78] Then I wouldn't have to worry. -[4863.94 --> 4864.16] Right? -[4864.20 --> 4865.96] And peace is contrasted with worry, -[4866.16 --> 4869.74] and it's contrasted with security in that way. -[4871.58 --> 4874.14] And in all three of these other ways, -[4874.54 --> 4876.24] in our world today, -[4876.30 --> 4878.34] there's all sorts of, like, gurus -[4878.34 --> 4881.28] and internet influencers and teachers -[4881.28 --> 4884.22] who can help you try to find that kind of peace. -[4885.98 --> 4887.44] The problem is, -[4887.88 --> 4889.68] it doesn't last. -[4891.66 --> 4893.88] And let's be honest, -[4894.66 --> 4897.86] those gurus and internet influencers and teachers -[4897.86 --> 4900.56] who make their careers off of providing -[4900.56 --> 4902.58] and teaching people to find that kind of peace, -[4902.96 --> 4904.56] they don't want it to last. -[4905.88 --> 4908.22] Because then they would be working themselves out of a job. -[4908.22 --> 4911.68] Now, I'm mindful that some of you, -[4912.00 --> 4914.38] maybe the more cynical among you here this morning, -[4914.82 --> 4915.92] are saying to yourself, -[4916.20 --> 4918.46] hey, pastor, isn't that exactly what you do? -[4920.30 --> 4922.28] Don't you teach us to find peace, -[4922.44 --> 4924.64] and don't you want us to not have peace, -[4924.66 --> 4926.58] because then you would be working yourself out of your job? -[4926.72 --> 4927.58] And I want to say, yeah. -[4928.18 --> 4928.66] You know what? -[4928.72 --> 4930.78] I want to work myself out of a job. -[4932.06 --> 4932.26] Right? -[4932.28 --> 4933.64] If I work myself out of a job, -[4933.76 --> 4935.10] that means only one thing. -[4935.10 --> 4937.04] That means the Lord Jesus Christ has returned, -[4937.04 --> 4939.68] and we've prayed maranatha, -[4939.82 --> 4940.64] and it's been fulfilled, -[4940.88 --> 4942.44] and I'm okay with that. -[4946.52 --> 4947.78] Instead, though, -[4948.62 --> 4951.18] what I hope that we can begin to see, -[4951.32 --> 4952.94] and what I want to do is paint for you -[4952.94 --> 4956.84] a word picture about peace in the Bible. -[4957.46 --> 4958.98] Because here's the thing, -[4959.04 --> 4960.48] I genuinely believe -[4960.48 --> 4963.82] that it is only the peace that the Bible talks about, -[4963.82 --> 4966.16] only the peace that God has on offer, -[4966.16 --> 4968.70] only the peace that is ultimately expressed, -[4968.88 --> 4970.00] and fulfilled, and contained, -[4970.16 --> 4973.06] and given to us in the person of Jesus Christ, -[4973.14 --> 4975.30] that can provide the sort of lasting, -[4975.94 --> 4979.68] living peace that we are hungry for. -[4980.72 --> 4980.88] Right? -[4980.94 --> 4983.20] What the world offers as peace -[4983.20 --> 4986.56] is only a fading shadow of the real thing, -[4986.80 --> 4988.10] and I hope and I pray -[4988.10 --> 4990.20] that you begin to experience that, -[4990.26 --> 4992.42] that you begin to taste and see -[4992.42 --> 4994.80] the truth of that this morning. -[4996.20 --> 4998.52] And so this really begins -[4998.52 --> 5001.80] all the way back in Genesis. -[5002.40 --> 5004.40] In Genesis 1 and 2, -[5004.62 --> 5008.20] we really start this idea off. -[5009.20 --> 5012.02] That God has created the world -[5012.02 --> 5013.10] and everything in it. -[5013.20 --> 5015.06] He has created and commissioned -[5015.06 --> 5016.22] Adam and Eve -[5016.22 --> 5018.58] to oversee His creation, -[5018.58 --> 5020.80] and to join Him -[5020.80 --> 5023.06] in the continued creation, -[5023.26 --> 5024.98] the continued co-creation -[5024.98 --> 5026.34] of the world -[5026.34 --> 5027.46] out of the materials -[5027.46 --> 5028.26] that He has made. -[5029.20 --> 5031.12] And as you read that part of the story, -[5031.34 --> 5032.26] God appears -[5032.26 --> 5034.60] as though He is regularly with them -[5034.60 --> 5035.20] and in their midst. -[5035.30 --> 5036.96] He's walking through the garden -[5036.96 --> 5037.84] looking for them -[5037.84 --> 5039.60] and communing with them. -[5040.26 --> 5040.48] All right? -[5040.52 --> 5041.84] The animals are at peace -[5041.84 --> 5043.40] and living into their purpose. -[5043.52 --> 5044.48] The man and the woman -[5044.48 --> 5045.32] are at peace -[5045.32 --> 5047.54] and living into their purposes. -[5047.84 --> 5049.10] Their relationship together -[5049.10 --> 5050.18] is complementary -[5050.18 --> 5052.14] and it is very good. -[5052.52 --> 5054.64] And their labors go well for them. -[5055.58 --> 5057.22] Everything is right -[5057.22 --> 5058.10] in that picture -[5058.10 --> 5059.64] because their relationship -[5059.64 --> 5061.46] to God is right. -[5061.60 --> 5062.58] And when their relationship -[5062.58 --> 5063.58] to God is right, -[5063.68 --> 5064.18] their relationship -[5064.18 --> 5065.56] to each other is right. -[5065.60 --> 5066.20] And their relationship -[5066.20 --> 5067.64] to the creation around them -[5067.64 --> 5068.42] is right. -[5069.98 --> 5072.50] But when they disobey God, -[5072.50 --> 5074.30] they're rebelling against -[5074.30 --> 5075.54] His perfect order -[5075.54 --> 5076.50] and this harmony, -[5077.10 --> 5079.08] this communion with God -[5079.08 --> 5080.96] and this union with God -[5080.96 --> 5083.08] and communion with human together -[5083.08 --> 5085.14] has broken. -[5085.60 --> 5087.88] What was in a state of wholeness, -[5088.12 --> 5089.10] of completeness, -[5089.22 --> 5090.20] of shalom, -[5091.04 --> 5091.86] is shattered. -[5093.14 --> 5094.62] They reject His shalom. -[5095.60 --> 5097.02] And you can see its effects -[5097.02 --> 5098.68] immediately in the story. -[5098.80 --> 5099.66] Shalom is broken -[5099.66 --> 5101.18] and so things are out of order. -[5101.54 --> 5102.28] They're off kilter. -[5102.28 --> 5103.04] They're not the way -[5103.04 --> 5104.00] they're supposed to be. -[5104.36 --> 5105.66] And so now the world, -[5105.82 --> 5106.48] that is the plants -[5106.48 --> 5107.12] and the animals -[5107.12 --> 5108.12] and nature alike -[5108.12 --> 5109.04] and humanity -[5109.04 --> 5110.58] are at odds together. -[5111.28 --> 5112.10] And God, -[5112.24 --> 5113.20] who is the creator -[5113.20 --> 5114.30] of all life, -[5114.54 --> 5115.42] says to the woman -[5115.42 --> 5116.94] who is a co-creator -[5116.94 --> 5118.22] of life within her -[5118.22 --> 5120.40] that her creating life -[5120.40 --> 5121.34] will now be painful -[5121.34 --> 5122.28] and severe. -[5123.34 --> 5123.88] God, -[5123.98 --> 5125.52] who produced everything -[5125.52 --> 5126.94] that is out of nothing -[5126.94 --> 5128.58] and has given the man -[5128.58 --> 5129.86] a job to produce -[5129.86 --> 5131.08] out of the ground, -[5131.08 --> 5132.42] says that his labor -[5132.42 --> 5133.50] will now be hard -[5133.50 --> 5134.72] and will be painful -[5134.72 --> 5136.40] and he will toil at it. -[5137.48 --> 5138.50] And what was supposed -[5138.50 --> 5139.66] to be a joyful -[5139.66 --> 5140.84] coexisting -[5140.84 --> 5142.26] of their life together -[5142.26 --> 5143.44] now is turning -[5143.44 --> 5145.52] into a wrestled labor -[5145.52 --> 5146.98] of submission -[5146.98 --> 5148.52] and abuse. -[5149.40 --> 5150.52] The relationship -[5150.52 --> 5151.26] of the man -[5151.26 --> 5151.72] and the woman -[5151.72 --> 5152.56] which was intended -[5152.56 --> 5154.26] to model God's relationship -[5154.26 --> 5155.04] to humanity -[5155.04 --> 5156.44] will be strained -[5156.44 --> 5157.62] and broken. -[5157.62 --> 5160.18] And this communion -[5160.18 --> 5160.86] of God -[5160.86 --> 5161.54] with humanity -[5161.54 --> 5162.44] which was supposed -[5162.44 --> 5163.40] to be eternal -[5163.40 --> 5165.24] now ends -[5165.24 --> 5166.26] in death. -[5167.54 --> 5168.30] In Genesis 3 -[5168.30 --> 5169.68] you read, -[5169.88 --> 5171.00] for dust you are -[5171.00 --> 5172.34] and into dust -[5172.34 --> 5173.62] you will return. -[5173.90 --> 5174.44] Shalom -[5174.44 --> 5176.66] is broken. -[5176.92 --> 5178.02] That's what sin -[5178.02 --> 5178.88] does. -[5179.76 --> 5180.58] In fact, -[5180.72 --> 5181.26] theologian -[5181.26 --> 5182.36] Cornelius Plantinga -[5182.36 --> 5183.08] in his, -[5183.22 --> 5183.94] what I think is -[5183.94 --> 5184.76] an amazing book, -[5184.96 --> 5186.08] a breviary of sin, -[5186.08 --> 5188.40] he defines sin -[5188.40 --> 5189.98] as culpable -[5189.98 --> 5191.70] shalom breaking. -[5193.76 --> 5195.80] Sin isn't just sinning. -[5196.48 --> 5197.42] Hear what I'm saying, right? -[5197.68 --> 5198.70] Sin isn't just -[5198.70 --> 5199.94] the things that you do -[5199.94 --> 5201.66] but it's part of -[5201.66 --> 5202.30] the reality -[5202.30 --> 5203.14] that we live in -[5203.14 --> 5204.26] of broken shalom. -[5205.20 --> 5205.96] Because of our -[5205.96 --> 5207.36] broken union with God -[5207.36 --> 5208.10] our communion -[5208.10 --> 5208.94] with each other -[5208.94 --> 5209.84] and with the world -[5209.84 --> 5210.88] is also broken. -[5212.26 --> 5213.68] That's why we need shalom. -[5214.68 --> 5215.26] That's why we need -[5215.26 --> 5216.94] God's shalom. -[5217.62 --> 5219.00] Shalom is union -[5219.00 --> 5219.70] with God -[5219.70 --> 5220.38] and communion -[5220.38 --> 5221.00] with each other. -[5221.26 --> 5222.16] It's talking about -[5222.16 --> 5223.26] the way things -[5223.26 --> 5224.00] were always -[5224.00 --> 5225.18] supposed to be. -[5226.36 --> 5227.36] Shalom is this -[5227.36 --> 5228.42] sense of wholeness -[5228.42 --> 5229.50] and completeness -[5229.50 --> 5230.54] that you were created -[5230.54 --> 5230.98] for -[5230.98 --> 5232.36] and that God -[5232.36 --> 5233.74] wants to restore -[5233.74 --> 5234.32] us to. -[5235.20 --> 5236.28] And that kind -[5236.28 --> 5236.94] of shalom -[5236.94 --> 5238.38] is what God -[5238.38 --> 5239.56] is offering to us -[5239.56 --> 5240.32] this Christmas. -[5240.46 --> 5241.48] That kind of shalom -[5241.48 --> 5242.54] is what is offered -[5242.54 --> 5243.06] to us -[5243.06 --> 5244.36] in Emmanuel -[5244.36 --> 5245.76] God with us. -[5248.32 --> 5249.74] Now in the story -[5249.74 --> 5251.12] as it works itself out -[5251.12 --> 5252.72] God's people -[5252.72 --> 5253.42] are supposed -[5253.42 --> 5254.62] to be defined -[5254.62 --> 5256.12] by this sense -[5256.12 --> 5256.70] of life -[5256.70 --> 5257.62] and they strive -[5257.62 --> 5258.98] towards living -[5258.98 --> 5259.74] into this -[5259.74 --> 5261.40] sense of shalom -[5261.40 --> 5262.76] and out of this -[5262.76 --> 5263.72] shalom -[5263.72 --> 5264.80] as they are -[5264.80 --> 5266.14] striving in -[5266.14 --> 5267.26] relationship with God. -[5267.26 --> 5270.38] part of the way -[5270.38 --> 5270.88] that God -[5270.88 --> 5272.44] defines his people -[5272.44 --> 5273.64] is the blessing -[5273.64 --> 5274.52] he gives them. -[5275.30 --> 5275.66] And so in -[5275.66 --> 5276.40] Numbers 6 -[5276.40 --> 5277.94] verse 24 -[5277.94 --> 5279.38] through 27 -[5279.38 --> 5280.92] we read -[5280.92 --> 5281.84] what's there -[5281.84 --> 5282.52] referred to -[5282.52 --> 5283.52] as the Aaronic -[5283.52 --> 5283.92] blessing. -[5284.10 --> 5284.74] It's the blessing -[5284.74 --> 5285.50] that Aaron would -[5285.50 --> 5286.68] speak over the -[5286.68 --> 5287.54] people of Israel. -[5287.98 --> 5288.92] Sometimes we hear it -[5288.92 --> 5289.54] at the end of our -[5289.54 --> 5290.40] worship together. -[5290.84 --> 5291.26] It says, -[5291.40 --> 5292.32] the Lord bless you -[5292.32 --> 5293.34] and keep you. -[5293.52 --> 5294.74] The Lord make his face -[5294.74 --> 5295.58] shine upon you -[5295.58 --> 5296.82] and be gracious to you. -[5296.82 --> 5298.72] the Lord turn his face -[5298.72 --> 5299.54] towards you -[5299.54 --> 5301.00] and give you -[5301.00 --> 5302.08] peace. -[5303.92 --> 5305.18] God wants -[5305.18 --> 5306.04] these people -[5306.04 --> 5307.28] to have his peace -[5307.28 --> 5308.44] but even more than that -[5308.44 --> 5309.30] the next line -[5309.30 --> 5311.68] so they will put -[5311.68 --> 5312.60] my name -[5312.60 --> 5313.60] on the Israelites -[5313.60 --> 5314.52] and I -[5314.52 --> 5315.66] will bless them. -[5318.04 --> 5319.32] God is saying -[5319.32 --> 5320.50] when you enter -[5320.50 --> 5321.72] into relationship -[5321.72 --> 5322.58] with me -[5322.58 --> 5323.50] when my name -[5323.50 --> 5324.44] is on you -[5324.44 --> 5325.72] and you are blessed -[5325.72 --> 5327.38] you will know -[5327.38 --> 5328.06] this -[5328.06 --> 5329.24] peace. -[5331.24 --> 5331.64] Now -[5331.64 --> 5332.78] we're not going to -[5332.78 --> 5333.10] go through -[5333.10 --> 5333.86] every instance -[5333.86 --> 5335.26] in the word -[5335.26 --> 5336.32] peace being used -[5336.32 --> 5336.88] in the Bible -[5336.88 --> 5337.52] but let me just -[5337.52 --> 5339.02] do a super quick -[5339.02 --> 5339.78] and ultimately -[5339.78 --> 5340.94] insufficient survey -[5340.94 --> 5342.22] but maybe it stirs -[5342.22 --> 5342.78] something in you -[5342.78 --> 5343.34] to do a little bit -[5343.34 --> 5343.70] of study -[5343.70 --> 5344.60] this week -[5344.60 --> 5346.10] because the rest -[5346.10 --> 5347.66] of this story -[5347.66 --> 5349.22] or a bunch -[5349.22 --> 5350.02] of the next part -[5350.02 --> 5350.38] anyway -[5350.38 --> 5351.30] of this story -[5351.30 --> 5352.94] is how these people -[5352.94 --> 5354.10] reject the peace -[5354.10 --> 5354.64] that was offered -[5354.64 --> 5355.00] to them -[5355.00 --> 5356.34] how they -[5356.34 --> 5358.62] reject the wholeness -[5358.62 --> 5359.36] that was intended -[5359.36 --> 5359.96] for them -[5359.96 --> 5361.22] and there are -[5361.22 --> 5362.36] constantly glimpses -[5362.36 --> 5363.40] of it in their life -[5363.40 --> 5364.34] and prophets -[5364.34 --> 5365.20] like Isaiah -[5365.20 --> 5366.10] who we read already -[5366.10 --> 5366.86] are constantly -[5366.86 --> 5368.04] painting a picture -[5368.04 --> 5368.80] and holding it -[5368.80 --> 5369.48] before them -[5369.48 --> 5370.30] right -[5370.30 --> 5371.02] so not only -[5371.02 --> 5372.08] in Isaiah 9 -[5372.08 --> 5373.34] but all throughout -[5373.34 --> 5374.18] Isaiah 40 -[5374.18 --> 5375.12] right -[5375.12 --> 5376.00] Isaiah 53 -[5376.00 --> 5377.00] these beautiful pictures -[5377.00 --> 5377.74] of how this peace -[5377.74 --> 5378.84] will be accomplished -[5378.84 --> 5380.12] but another one -[5380.12 --> 5382.36] the prophet Nahum -[5382.36 --> 5383.34] he says -[5383.34 --> 5383.92] look there -[5383.92 --> 5384.58] on the mountains -[5384.58 --> 5385.10] the feet -[5385.10 --> 5385.62] of the one -[5385.62 --> 5386.88] who bring good news -[5386.88 --> 5389.04] who proclaims peace -[5389.04 --> 5390.02] right -[5390.02 --> 5391.18] there's a looking forward -[5391.18 --> 5392.24] to this sense -[5392.24 --> 5393.20] of peace -[5393.20 --> 5394.52] but all of it -[5394.52 --> 5395.28] what we have begun -[5395.28 --> 5396.00] to see -[5396.00 --> 5396.90] all of it -[5396.90 --> 5397.50] was pointing -[5397.50 --> 5398.30] to something -[5398.30 --> 5399.62] or someone -[5399.62 --> 5400.82] greater -[5400.82 --> 5402.20] remember what Isaiah -[5402.20 --> 5402.60] said -[5402.60 --> 5403.82] for to us -[5403.82 --> 5404.46] a child -[5404.46 --> 5405.40] is born -[5405.40 --> 5406.34] to us -[5406.34 --> 5406.94] a son -[5406.94 --> 5408.04] is given -[5408.04 --> 5409.86] right -[5409.86 --> 5410.42] when Jesus -[5410.42 --> 5411.20] was born -[5411.20 --> 5412.38] what did the angels -[5412.38 --> 5412.76] sing -[5412.76 --> 5413.48] in Luke 2 -[5413.48 --> 5413.96] 14 -[5413.96 --> 5415.94] glory to God -[5415.94 --> 5416.54] in the highest -[5416.54 --> 5417.44] and on earth -[5417.44 --> 5418.96] peace -[5418.96 --> 5420.20] to those -[5420.20 --> 5420.54] on whom -[5420.54 --> 5421.02] his favor -[5421.02 --> 5421.54] rests -[5421.54 --> 5422.96] when Jesus -[5422.96 --> 5423.94] entered Jerusalem -[5423.94 --> 5424.94] some 33 years -[5424.94 --> 5425.20] later -[5425.20 --> 5425.94] the people -[5425.94 --> 5426.60] cried out -[5426.60 --> 5427.48] in Luke 19 -[5427.48 --> 5428.00] 37 -[5428.00 --> 5429.66] when he came -[5429.66 --> 5430.02] near -[5430.02 --> 5430.60] the place -[5430.60 --> 5431.18] where the road -[5431.18 --> 5431.68] goes down -[5431.68 --> 5431.98] the Mount -[5431.98 --> 5432.42] of Olives -[5432.42 --> 5433.14] the whole crowd -[5433.14 --> 5433.74] of disciples -[5433.74 --> 5434.78] began joyfully -[5434.78 --> 5435.62] to praise God -[5435.62 --> 5436.38] and loud voices -[5436.38 --> 5436.98] for the miracles -[5436.98 --> 5437.60] they had seen -[5437.60 --> 5438.58] and they said -[5438.58 --> 5439.86] blessed is the king -[5439.86 --> 5441.02] remember the government -[5441.02 --> 5441.88] will be on his shoulders -[5441.88 --> 5442.80] blessed is the king -[5442.80 --> 5443.80] who comes in the name -[5443.80 --> 5444.32] of the Lord -[5444.32 --> 5445.94] peace in heaven -[5445.94 --> 5447.02] and glory -[5447.02 --> 5448.42] in the highest -[5448.42 --> 5450.00] the peace -[5450.00 --> 5450.62] that is offered -[5450.62 --> 5451.26] to us -[5451.26 --> 5451.74] comes -[5451.74 --> 5452.96] in the person -[5452.96 --> 5454.10] of Jesus -[5454.10 --> 5454.84] that's what -[5454.84 --> 5455.56] Christmas -[5455.56 --> 5456.44] is about -[5456.44 --> 5456.88] that's why -[5456.88 --> 5457.42] the angels -[5457.42 --> 5458.16] sang -[5458.16 --> 5459.12] Jesus himself -[5459.12 --> 5460.04] says this -[5460.04 --> 5461.30] in John 14 -[5461.30 --> 5461.72] 27 -[5461.72 --> 5462.14] he says -[5462.14 --> 5463.38] peace I leave -[5463.38 --> 5464.30] with you -[5464.30 --> 5465.18] my peace -[5465.18 --> 5466.32] I give you -[5466.32 --> 5467.94] in John 16 -[5467.94 --> 5468.86] Jesus says -[5468.86 --> 5469.66] I have told you -[5469.66 --> 5470.44] these things -[5470.44 --> 5471.34] so that you -[5471.34 --> 5472.12] may have -[5472.12 --> 5473.02] peace -[5473.02 --> 5474.50] in this world -[5474.50 --> 5475.10] you will have -[5475.10 --> 5475.46] trouble -[5475.46 --> 5477.44] but take heart -[5477.44 --> 5479.00] I have overcome -[5479.00 --> 5479.80] the world -[5479.80 --> 5482.84] Jesus comes -[5482.84 --> 5484.34] to bring us -[5484.34 --> 5484.86] peace -[5484.86 --> 5485.96] and he comes -[5485.96 --> 5486.56] not only to -[5486.56 --> 5487.24] bring us -[5487.24 --> 5487.64] peace -[5487.64 --> 5488.38] but he comes -[5488.38 --> 5490.10] as our -[5490.10 --> 5491.08] peace -[5491.08 --> 5492.98] Ephesians 2 -[5492.98 --> 5494.96] verse 13 -[5494.96 --> 5496.38] we can read -[5496.38 --> 5496.78] together -[5496.78 --> 5497.72] but now -[5497.72 --> 5498.48] in Christ -[5498.48 --> 5499.00] Jesus -[5499.00 --> 5499.70] you who -[5499.70 --> 5500.14] were once -[5500.14 --> 5500.98] far away -[5500.98 --> 5501.46] have been -[5501.46 --> 5502.06] brought near -[5502.06 --> 5502.72] by the blood -[5502.72 --> 5503.32] of Christ -[5503.32 --> 5504.44] for he -[5504.44 --> 5505.02] himself -[5505.02 --> 5506.22] is our -[5506.22 --> 5506.68] peace -[5506.68 --> 5507.26] who has -[5507.26 --> 5507.66] made the -[5507.66 --> 5508.20] two groups -[5508.20 --> 5508.56] one -[5508.56 --> 5508.90] and has -[5508.90 --> 5509.36] destroyed -[5509.36 --> 5509.88] the barrier -[5509.88 --> 5510.54] the dividing -[5510.54 --> 5511.02] wall of -[5511.02 --> 5511.46] hostility -[5511.46 --> 5512.22] by setting -[5512.22 --> 5512.86] aside his -[5512.86 --> 5513.22] flesh -[5513.22 --> 5513.72] the law -[5513.72 --> 5514.06] with its -[5514.06 --> 5514.44] commands -[5514.44 --> 5515.06] and regulations -[5515.06 --> 5516.32] his purpose -[5516.32 --> 5516.88] was to -[5516.88 --> 5517.32] create -[5517.32 --> 5518.20] in himself -[5518.20 --> 5519.04] one new -[5519.04 --> 5519.60] humanity -[5519.60 --> 5520.30] out of the -[5520.30 --> 5520.62] two -[5520.62 --> 5521.92] thus making -[5521.92 --> 5522.62] peace -[5522.62 --> 5522.74] peace -[5522.74 --> 5523.82] and in -[5523.82 --> 5524.36] one body -[5524.36 --> 5525.06] to reconcile -[5525.06 --> 5525.58] them -[5525.58 --> 5526.32] both of -[5526.32 --> 5526.52] them -[5526.52 --> 5527.02] to God -[5527.02 --> 5527.42] through the -[5527.42 --> 5527.82] cross -[5527.82 --> 5528.38] by which -[5528.38 --> 5528.82] he put -[5528.82 --> 5529.46] to death -[5529.46 --> 5530.18] their -[5530.18 --> 5530.90] hostility -[5530.90 --> 5532.74] Jesus -[5532.74 --> 5533.40] himself -[5533.40 --> 5534.16] is our -[5534.16 --> 5534.64] peace -[5534.64 --> 5535.20] and he -[5535.20 --> 5535.70] makes -[5535.70 --> 5536.44] the body -[5536.44 --> 5537.38] whole -[5537.38 --> 5538.38] Jesus -[5538.38 --> 5539.26] restores -[5539.26 --> 5539.98] the church -[5539.98 --> 5540.34] Jew -[5540.34 --> 5541.06] and Gentile -[5541.06 --> 5541.48] alike -[5541.48 --> 5542.86] to wholeness -[5542.86 --> 5543.58] that's -[5543.58 --> 5544.42] peace -[5544.42 --> 5545.14] and it is -[5545.14 --> 5545.62] personal -[5545.62 --> 5546.38] and it is -[5546.38 --> 5546.90] communal -[5546.90 --> 5548.12] shalom -[5548.12 --> 5548.80] is union -[5548.80 --> 5549.42] with God -[5549.42 --> 5550.20] and communion -[5550.20 --> 5551.20] with each -[5551.20 --> 5551.46] other -[5551.46 --> 5552.38] and he -[5552.38 --> 5553.16] does that -[5553.16 --> 5554.00] on the -[5554.00 --> 5554.48] cross -[5554.48 --> 5555.78] by his -[5555.78 --> 5556.30] resurrection -[5556.30 --> 5557.58] right -[5557.58 --> 5558.16] that Jesus -[5558.16 --> 5559.10] entered into -[5559.10 --> 5559.68] the world -[5559.68 --> 5560.50] as a little -[5560.50 --> 5560.88] babe -[5560.88 --> 5561.72] is great -[5561.72 --> 5562.40] and cute -[5562.40 --> 5562.82] but the -[5562.82 --> 5563.58] story doesn't -[5563.58 --> 5564.16] end there -[5564.16 --> 5564.48] right -[5564.48 --> 5565.18] because he -[5565.18 --> 5565.98] grew into -[5565.98 --> 5566.40] a man -[5566.40 --> 5566.66] and he -[5566.66 --> 5566.96] learned -[5566.96 --> 5567.42] obedience -[5567.42 --> 5567.78] and he -[5567.78 --> 5568.22] became -[5568.22 --> 5568.72] obedient -[5568.72 --> 5569.32] unto -[5569.32 --> 5569.64] death -[5569.64 --> 5569.90] and that -[5569.90 --> 5570.22] Jesus -[5570.22 --> 5571.04] lived the -[5571.04 --> 5571.58] life I -[5571.58 --> 5571.98] should have -[5571.98 --> 5572.40] lived -[5572.40 --> 5573.16] and then -[5573.16 --> 5573.96] even though -[5573.96 --> 5574.36] innocent -[5574.36 --> 5575.04] he died -[5575.04 --> 5575.54] the death -[5575.54 --> 5575.92] that I -[5575.92 --> 5576.34] deserve -[5576.34 --> 5576.82] for sin -[5576.82 --> 5577.26] he died -[5577.26 --> 5577.62] the death -[5577.62 --> 5577.88] that we -[5577.88 --> 5578.48] all deserve -[5578.48 --> 5579.24] for our -[5579.24 --> 5579.74] broken -[5579.74 --> 5580.48] fellowship -[5580.48 --> 5581.38] with God -[5581.38 --> 5582.48] he took -[5582.48 --> 5583.04] on that -[5583.04 --> 5583.82] brokenness -[5583.82 --> 5584.36] he who -[5584.36 --> 5585.30] knew no -[5585.30 --> 5585.74] sin -[5585.74 --> 5586.30] culpable -[5586.30 --> 5586.74] shalom -[5586.74 --> 5587.14] breaking -[5587.14 --> 5589.14] became sin -[5589.14 --> 5590.10] for us -[5590.10 --> 5592.44] so that we -[5592.44 --> 5593.26] might become -[5593.26 --> 5594.02] the righteousness -[5594.02 --> 5594.80] of God -[5594.80 --> 5595.30] so that we -[5595.30 --> 5595.80] might be -[5595.80 --> 5596.44] restored -[5596.44 --> 5597.74] to God -[5597.74 --> 5598.86] that's why -[5598.86 --> 5599.96] he is called -[5599.96 --> 5600.56] the prince -[5600.56 --> 5601.96] of peace -[5601.96 --> 5603.40] because his -[5603.40 --> 5603.98] gospel -[5603.98 --> 5605.30] accomplishes peace -[5605.30 --> 5605.94] in your life -[5605.94 --> 5606.72] and his rule -[5606.72 --> 5607.62] over your life -[5607.62 --> 5608.50] brings peace -[5608.50 --> 5609.30] in your union -[5609.30 --> 5609.88] with God -[5609.88 --> 5610.84] and communion -[5610.84 --> 5611.54] with others -[5611.54 --> 5614.02] and to be -[5614.02 --> 5614.34] honest -[5614.34 --> 5615.78] that's already -[5615.78 --> 5616.30] amazing -[5616.30 --> 5618.04] but there's -[5618.04 --> 5618.40] more -[5618.40 --> 5619.84] because the -[5619.84 --> 5620.46] story doesn't -[5620.46 --> 5620.98] end there -[5620.98 --> 5622.44] right there's -[5622.44 --> 5622.86] more in -[5622.86 --> 5623.68] in Revelation -[5623.68 --> 5625.30] 21 verse -[5625.30 --> 5625.98] 3 and 4 -[5625.98 --> 5626.60] John has -[5626.60 --> 5627.18] this vision -[5627.18 --> 5627.66] he says -[5627.66 --> 5628.50] and I heard -[5628.50 --> 5629.28] a loud voice -[5629.28 --> 5629.92] from the throne -[5629.92 --> 5630.84] saying look -[5630.84 --> 5632.08] God's dwelling -[5632.08 --> 5633.08] place is now -[5633.08 --> 5634.06] among the people -[5634.06 --> 5634.88] and he will -[5634.88 --> 5635.96] dwell with them -[5635.96 --> 5637.02] they will be -[5637.02 --> 5637.64] his people -[5637.64 --> 5638.18] and God -[5638.18 --> 5638.98] himself will -[5638.98 --> 5639.56] be with them -[5639.56 --> 5640.04] and be -[5640.04 --> 5640.64] their God -[5640.64 --> 5641.62] he will wipe -[5641.62 --> 5642.76] away every tear -[5642.76 --> 5643.80] from their eyes -[5643.80 --> 5644.20] and there'll be -[5644.20 --> 5644.90] no more death -[5644.90 --> 5645.78] or mourning -[5645.78 --> 5646.86] or crying -[5646.86 --> 5647.54] or pain -[5647.54 --> 5648.14] for the old -[5648.14 --> 5648.84] order of things -[5648.84 --> 5649.72] has passed away -[5649.72 --> 5650.86] right -[5650.86 --> 5651.78] God's union -[5651.78 --> 5653.62] with his people -[5653.62 --> 5654.88] is restored -[5654.88 --> 5656.16] right -[5656.16 --> 5656.78] God's dwelling -[5656.78 --> 5657.38] place is now -[5657.38 --> 5658.08] among the people -[5658.08 --> 5658.72] John says -[5658.72 --> 5660.08] and our communion -[5660.08 --> 5661.46] with each other -[5661.46 --> 5662.64] is restored -[5662.64 --> 5664.06] they will be -[5664.06 --> 5665.16] his people -[5665.16 --> 5666.06] and then -[5666.06 --> 5666.96] everything -[5666.96 --> 5668.10] that was undone -[5668.10 --> 5668.90] that was broken -[5668.90 --> 5670.26] in the rebellion -[5670.26 --> 5670.96] at the garden -[5670.96 --> 5671.62] of Eden -[5671.62 --> 5672.16] right -[5672.16 --> 5673.22] is restored -[5673.22 --> 5674.56] to wholeness -[5674.56 --> 5675.78] there's no more -[5675.78 --> 5676.16] tears -[5676.16 --> 5676.74] there's no more -[5676.74 --> 5677.04] death -[5677.04 --> 5677.68] there's no more -[5677.68 --> 5678.10] crying -[5678.10 --> 5678.82] or pain -[5678.82 --> 5679.30] there's no more -[5679.30 --> 5679.80] mourning -[5679.80 --> 5680.80] for the old -[5680.80 --> 5681.56] order of things -[5681.56 --> 5682.52] has passed away -[5682.52 --> 5682.90] right -[5682.90 --> 5683.90] this new order -[5683.90 --> 5685.46] is shalom -[5685.46 --> 5686.56] restored -[5686.56 --> 5687.88] right -[5687.88 --> 5688.36] this is what -[5688.36 --> 5689.08] Isaiah meant -[5689.08 --> 5689.98] when he said -[5689.98 --> 5690.82] of the greatness -[5690.82 --> 5691.54] of his government -[5691.54 --> 5692.04] and peace -[5692.04 --> 5692.84] there will be -[5692.84 --> 5694.12] no end -[5694.12 --> 5698.08] this is why -[5698.08 --> 5699.24] we have -[5699.24 --> 5699.88] peace -[5699.88 --> 5701.44] that lasts -[5701.44 --> 5702.66] because it is a peace -[5702.66 --> 5703.52] that is promised -[5703.52 --> 5705.36] through eternity -[5705.36 --> 5708.54] so here we are -[5708.54 --> 5710.78] a people of peace -[5710.78 --> 5711.90] who are already -[5711.90 --> 5712.58] made whole -[5712.58 --> 5713.64] and who are being -[5713.64 --> 5714.64] made whole -[5714.64 --> 5715.76] and who will be -[5715.76 --> 5716.82] made whole -[5716.82 --> 5718.02] that's why we can have -[5718.02 --> 5718.96] peace in this life -[5718.96 --> 5720.24] because on the cross -[5720.24 --> 5720.80] your peace -[5720.80 --> 5721.66] was accomplished -[5721.66 --> 5722.80] because in the resurrection -[5722.80 --> 5723.72] your peace -[5723.72 --> 5724.36] was guaranteed -[5724.36 --> 5725.52] and because in the -[5725.52 --> 5726.38] consummation -[5726.38 --> 5727.50] your peace -[5727.50 --> 5728.80] will be fulfilled -[5728.80 --> 5732.68] and so knowing -[5732.68 --> 5733.60] what is to come -[5733.60 --> 5735.62] that works backwards -[5735.62 --> 5737.38] to today -[5737.38 --> 5739.64] and so we wait -[5739.64 --> 5740.46] for peace -[5740.46 --> 5742.36] by living -[5742.36 --> 5743.70] peace -[5743.70 --> 5745.16] we wait for that -[5745.16 --> 5746.30] ultimate restoration -[5746.30 --> 5747.32] by living -[5747.32 --> 5748.44] as people -[5748.44 --> 5749.40] restored -[5749.40 --> 5750.92] to wholeness -[5750.92 --> 5752.68] Paul says -[5752.68 --> 5753.26] to the church -[5753.26 --> 5754.74] in Colossae -[5754.74 --> 5755.34] he says -[5755.34 --> 5756.54] let the peace -[5756.54 --> 5757.30] of Christ -[5757.30 --> 5758.74] rule in your hearts -[5758.74 --> 5759.90] since as members -[5759.90 --> 5760.60] of one body -[5760.60 --> 5761.40] you were called -[5761.40 --> 5762.96] to peace -[5762.96 --> 5764.62] the video -[5764.62 --> 5765.16] that we started -[5765.16 --> 5765.96] the service with -[5765.96 --> 5767.04] has -[5767.04 --> 5768.54] Tim Mackey -[5768.54 --> 5768.96] saying -[5768.96 --> 5769.68] peace takes -[5769.68 --> 5770.38] a lot of work -[5770.38 --> 5771.28] because it's not -[5771.28 --> 5772.28] just the absence -[5772.28 --> 5773.32] of conflict -[5773.32 --> 5774.12] true peace -[5774.12 --> 5775.36] requires taking -[5775.36 --> 5775.96] what's broken -[5775.96 --> 5776.84] and restoring -[5776.84 --> 5777.76] it to wholeness -[5777.76 --> 5779.04] whether it's in our lives -[5779.04 --> 5779.86] or in our relationships -[5779.86 --> 5780.70] or in our world -[5780.70 --> 5784.46] and you can only -[5784.46 --> 5785.76] do that in your life -[5785.76 --> 5787.64] you can only do that -[5787.64 --> 5788.32] in the world -[5788.32 --> 5789.42] when Christ -[5789.42 --> 5790.20] has done it -[5790.20 --> 5790.82] in your heart -[5790.82 --> 5792.40] and in your mind -[5792.40 --> 5795.32] one of the books -[5795.32 --> 5796.00] that we gave -[5796.00 --> 5796.72] Adam and Rachel -[5796.72 --> 5797.20] this morning -[5797.20 --> 5797.66] is a book -[5797.66 --> 5798.30] by Paul Tripp -[5798.30 --> 5798.72] it's called -[5798.72 --> 5799.04] Ah -[5799.04 --> 5801.22] in that book -[5801.22 --> 5802.08] Paul Tripp -[5802.08 --> 5802.66] says -[5802.66 --> 5803.78] you will only have -[5803.78 --> 5805.16] peace in the face -[5805.16 --> 5806.16] of your own weakness -[5806.16 --> 5806.92] failures -[5806.92 --> 5807.52] foibles -[5807.52 --> 5808.30] and inabilities -[5808.30 --> 5809.38] when you are -[5809.38 --> 5810.22] in awe -[5810.22 --> 5811.24] of God's -[5811.24 --> 5811.96] awesome -[5811.96 --> 5812.96] power -[5812.96 --> 5815.48] that's what it means -[5815.48 --> 5817.30] to have the peace -[5817.30 --> 5817.98] of Christ -[5817.98 --> 5819.80] rule in your heart -[5819.80 --> 5821.24] right -[5821.24 --> 5821.80] and to have the peace -[5821.80 --> 5822.22] of Christ -[5822.22 --> 5823.06] rule in your heart -[5823.06 --> 5823.74] we must first -[5823.74 --> 5824.80] have the peace -[5824.80 --> 5825.62] of Christ -[5825.62 --> 5827.50] in us -[5827.50 --> 5828.72] and around us -[5828.72 --> 5829.98] and through us -[5829.98 --> 5830.96] right -[5830.96 --> 5831.40] if we're going to -[5831.40 --> 5832.18] ever experience -[5832.18 --> 5833.14] lasting peace -[5833.14 --> 5834.00] in the community -[5834.00 --> 5835.76] we need Christ -[5835.76 --> 5837.30] ourselves -[5837.30 --> 5839.78] and because of this -[5839.78 --> 5841.52] rest -[5841.52 --> 5843.44] because of this peace -[5843.44 --> 5844.38] we can experience -[5844.38 --> 5845.54] a sense of rest -[5845.54 --> 5846.96] for the heart -[5846.96 --> 5847.74] that has -[5847.74 --> 5848.76] our grounding -[5848.76 --> 5849.74] and it's grounding -[5849.74 --> 5851.36] in being known -[5851.36 --> 5852.14] by Jesus -[5852.14 --> 5853.08] and knowing -[5853.08 --> 5854.08] Jesus -[5854.08 --> 5855.70] right -[5855.70 --> 5856.50] because all of a sudden -[5856.50 --> 5857.90] you can rest -[5857.90 --> 5859.92] in his forgiveness -[5859.92 --> 5862.98] you can rest -[5862.98 --> 5864.36] in the truth -[5864.36 --> 5865.28] that you don't need -[5865.28 --> 5866.78] to be afraid -[5866.78 --> 5868.36] of being exposed -[5868.36 --> 5870.60] or being found out -[5870.60 --> 5872.08] or being seen -[5872.08 --> 5873.24] for who you really -[5873.24 --> 5874.24] truly are -[5874.24 --> 5875.16] because God -[5875.16 --> 5876.54] has already seen you -[5876.54 --> 5877.40] for who you really -[5877.40 --> 5878.12] truly are -[5878.12 --> 5878.94] he's seen -[5878.94 --> 5879.90] the deepest -[5879.90 --> 5880.82] darkest depths -[5880.82 --> 5881.50] of your heart -[5881.50 --> 5882.52] and he says -[5882.52 --> 5883.62] you are my -[5883.62 --> 5884.90] lavishly loved -[5884.90 --> 5885.78] child -[5885.78 --> 5887.72] and so you can -[5887.72 --> 5888.30] have peace -[5888.30 --> 5890.54] you can rest -[5890.54 --> 5891.72] in his acceptance -[5891.72 --> 5893.14] because in that -[5893.14 --> 5893.78] you're freed -[5893.78 --> 5894.86] from the roller coaster -[5894.86 --> 5895.90] ride of other -[5895.90 --> 5897.30] people's acceptance -[5897.30 --> 5899.34] the gospel -[5899.34 --> 5900.58] offers a true -[5900.58 --> 5901.12] and better -[5901.12 --> 5901.82] peace -[5901.82 --> 5902.82] because Jesus -[5902.82 --> 5903.84] is our -[5903.84 --> 5904.64] peace -[5904.64 --> 5905.64] and this Jesus -[5905.64 --> 5906.84] is the same -[5906.84 --> 5907.36] yesterday -[5907.36 --> 5908.22] today -[5908.22 --> 5909.40] and forever -[5909.40 --> 5910.84] he doesn't change -[5910.84 --> 5911.68] and so the peace -[5911.68 --> 5912.88] that he offers -[5912.88 --> 5913.84] doesn't fade -[5913.84 --> 5914.98] or pass away -[5914.98 --> 5918.60] let me end here -[5918.60 --> 5920.64] yesterday -[5920.64 --> 5922.98] I was driving -[5922.98 --> 5924.34] with my kids -[5924.34 --> 5926.06] and it had been -[5926.06 --> 5926.94] a bit of a day -[5926.94 --> 5927.82] we had done some -[5927.82 --> 5929.10] driving around -[5929.10 --> 5929.70] and traveling -[5929.70 --> 5932.38] and we were -[5932.38 --> 5933.10] at about -[5933.10 --> 5933.72] the end -[5933.72 --> 5934.88] of their ability -[5934.88 --> 5936.04] to be kind -[5936.04 --> 5936.84] and to communicate -[5936.84 --> 5937.34] well -[5937.34 --> 5938.60] and we were -[5938.60 --> 5939.70] about at the end -[5939.70 --> 5940.92] of our patience -[5940.92 --> 5941.96] and the ability -[5941.96 --> 5942.68] to do the same -[5942.68 --> 5942.94] do you know -[5942.94 --> 5943.60] what I'm talking about -[5943.60 --> 5945.70] parents are understanding -[5945.70 --> 5946.84] right -[5946.84 --> 5947.82] it had been a long day -[5947.82 --> 5948.52] it was full -[5948.52 --> 5949.98] and we were ready -[5949.98 --> 5950.82] for some type -[5950.82 --> 5951.36] of break -[5951.36 --> 5953.36] now all of that -[5953.36 --> 5953.84] is said -[5953.84 --> 5954.92] to set the context -[5954.92 --> 5957.48] that while we were driving -[5957.48 --> 5959.22] I also lost -[5959.22 --> 5959.84] my patience -[5959.84 --> 5961.66] and I was about -[5961.66 --> 5962.36] to turn around -[5962.36 --> 5963.10] and I was about -[5963.10 --> 5964.92] to raise my voice -[5964.92 --> 5968.42] and just before -[5968.42 --> 5968.94] I did -[5968.94 --> 5969.52] I thought -[5969.52 --> 5972.48] tomorrow -[5972.48 --> 5973.34] I have to stand -[5973.34 --> 5973.76] up in front -[5973.76 --> 5974.52] of this church -[5974.52 --> 5975.70] and preach -[5975.70 --> 5976.38] on the peace -[5976.38 --> 5976.90] of Christ -[5976.90 --> 5979.96] am I reflecting -[5979.96 --> 5980.54] the peace -[5980.54 --> 5981.14] of Christ -[5981.14 --> 5982.64] in this moment -[5982.64 --> 5983.32] right now -[5983.32 --> 5984.24] with my kids -[5984.24 --> 5985.10] in the car -[5985.10 --> 5987.70] because I wasn't -[5987.70 --> 5988.18] about to -[5988.18 --> 5991.14] and that moment -[5991.14 --> 5991.96] of pause -[5991.96 --> 5993.50] stopped me -[5993.50 --> 5995.30] and it changed -[5995.30 --> 5996.40] the way I communicated -[5996.40 --> 5996.94] and approached -[5996.94 --> 5997.40] my kids -[5997.40 --> 5999.00] but two things -[5999.00 --> 5999.30] one -[5999.30 --> 6000.16] I had to remind -[6000.16 --> 6001.34] myself of that -[6001.34 --> 6001.90] in the moment -[6001.90 --> 6002.54] before it could -[6002.54 --> 6003.14] take effect -[6003.14 --> 6003.86] and really -[6003.86 --> 6004.48] it was only -[6004.48 --> 6005.18] the accountability -[6005.18 --> 6006.14] of standing here -[6006.14 --> 6006.76] in front of you -[6006.76 --> 6008.32] telling this story -[6008.32 --> 6009.74] that helped me -[6009.74 --> 6010.32] do that -[6010.32 --> 6011.74] but two -[6011.74 --> 6013.60] I can promise you -[6013.60 --> 6014.48] that over the next -[6014.48 --> 6014.98] couple days -[6014.98 --> 6015.32] and weeks -[6015.32 --> 6015.96] I will lose -[6015.96 --> 6016.50] my patience -[6016.50 --> 6017.26] with my kids -[6017.26 --> 6019.52] and that's not -[6019.52 --> 6019.98] their fault -[6019.98 --> 6021.92] right -[6021.92 --> 6022.92] I will not have -[6022.92 --> 6024.08] the spiritual maturity -[6024.08 --> 6024.94] to think back -[6024.94 --> 6025.92] on this moment -[6025.92 --> 6027.06] this truth -[6027.06 --> 6027.60] and quell -[6027.60 --> 6028.44] my response -[6028.44 --> 6032.12] that's why -[6032.12 --> 6032.86] I'm grateful -[6032.86 --> 6034.64] that Jesus -[6034.64 --> 6037.40] is my peace -[6037.40 --> 6039.62] because it's ultimately -[6039.62 --> 6041.30] about what he has done -[6041.30 --> 6042.20] in me -[6042.20 --> 6043.74] what he has accomplished -[6043.74 --> 6044.66] for me -[6044.66 --> 6045.78] and so now -[6045.78 --> 6046.92] I can strive -[6046.92 --> 6047.68] to live -[6047.68 --> 6049.00] like him -[6049.00 --> 6049.72] and to live -[6049.72 --> 6050.58] for him -[6050.58 --> 6052.26] but my living -[6052.26 --> 6052.80] like him -[6052.80 --> 6053.50] or for him -[6053.50 --> 6054.22] doesn't -[6054.22 --> 6055.36] determine -[6055.36 --> 6057.04] his living -[6057.04 --> 6057.78] for me -[6057.78 --> 6060.16] and it's -[6060.16 --> 6060.80] that kind -[6060.80 --> 6061.46] of peace -[6061.46 --> 6062.94] that makes us -[6062.94 --> 6064.06] sing it is well -[6064.06 --> 6065.74] when there's chaos -[6065.74 --> 6066.76] happening around us -[6066.76 --> 6068.48] it's that kind -[6068.48 --> 6069.00] of peace -[6069.00 --> 6070.14] that makes us -[6070.14 --> 6071.72] at funerals -[6071.72 --> 6073.00] say -[6073.00 --> 6074.00] be still -[6074.00 --> 6074.78] and know -[6074.78 --> 6076.00] that I am God -[6076.00 --> 6077.28] even -[6077.28 --> 6078.14] when in -[6078.14 --> 6079.08] Psalm 46 -[6079.08 --> 6080.16] the chaotic -[6080.16 --> 6081.40] waves of the oceans -[6081.40 --> 6082.06] are crashing -[6082.06 --> 6083.24] over us -[6083.24 --> 6084.66] and so as -[6084.66 --> 6085.66] we go into -[6085.66 --> 6086.22] this week -[6086.22 --> 6087.08] whatever chaos -[6087.08 --> 6088.54] it may bring -[6088.54 --> 6089.46] remember -[6089.46 --> 6090.72] the peace -[6090.72 --> 6091.84] of -[6091.84 --> 6092.94] Christ -[6092.94 --> 6095.42] and may you too -[6095.42 --> 6096.48] let the peace -[6096.48 --> 6097.20] of Christ -[6097.20 --> 6097.88] rule -[6097.88 --> 6099.34] in your hearts -[6099.34 --> 6100.18] amen -[6100.18 --> 6101.52] let's pray -[6101.52 --> 6105.68] holy God -[6105.68 --> 6108.06] grant us -[6108.06 --> 6109.18] your peace -[6109.18 --> 6112.34] and make us -[6112.34 --> 6114.54] shalom makers -[6114.54 --> 6115.38] in the world -[6115.38 --> 6116.58] as we have -[6116.58 --> 6117.20] been restored -[6117.20 --> 6117.78] to you -[6117.78 --> 6119.34] use us -[6119.34 --> 6120.30] to show -[6120.30 --> 6121.86] that wholeness -[6121.86 --> 6122.88] made real -[6122.88 --> 6123.80] in the lives -[6123.80 --> 6124.38] and whomever -[6124.38 --> 6124.92] we meet -[6124.92 --> 6126.04] this Advent -[6126.04 --> 6126.66] and Christmas -[6126.66 --> 6127.42] season -[6127.42 --> 6129.96] and when we fail -[6129.96 --> 6130.60] when we fall -[6130.60 --> 6130.94] short -[6130.94 --> 6131.56] when we -[6131.56 --> 6133.42] don't experience -[6133.42 --> 6134.04] the peace -[6134.04 --> 6134.74] that we long -[6134.74 --> 6135.08] for -[6135.08 --> 6136.74] help us -[6136.74 --> 6138.04] to come back -[6138.04 --> 6138.58] to you -[6138.58 --> 6139.36] Lord Jesus -[6139.36 --> 6140.64] who came -[6140.64 --> 6141.42] to us -[6141.42 --> 6142.64] Emmanuel -[6142.64 --> 6144.94] God with us -[6144.94 --> 6146.24] in you -[6146.24 --> 6146.92] we trust -[6146.92 --> 6147.54] and in your -[6147.54 --> 6148.00] name -[6148.00 --> 6148.84] we pray -[6148.84 --> 6149.84] amen -[6149.84 --> 6172.46] behold the star -[6172.46 --> 6175.34] of Bethlehem -[6175.34 --> 6176.74] the word -[6176.74 --> 6178.34] of God -[6178.34 --> 6179.86] has become -[6179.86 --> 6181.56] flesh -[6181.56 --> 6184.40] unto us -[6184.40 --> 6185.72] a child -[6185.72 --> 6187.26] is born -[6187.26 --> 6188.88] the savior -[6188.88 --> 6190.44] of -[6190.44 --> 6191.96] this broken -[6191.96 --> 6193.34] world -[6194.00 --> 6195.88] oh hear -[6195.88 --> 6197.34] the angel -[6198.02 --> 6199.34] voices -[6199.86 --> 6201.22] sing -[6201.22 --> 6202.34] come -[6202.34 --> 6203.64] let us -[6203.64 --> 6204.34] adore -[6204.34 --> 6206.50] him -[6206.50 --> 6207.34] peace -[6208.22 --> 6209.62] has come -[6209.62 --> 6210.58] for our -[6210.58 --> 6211.46] king -[6211.46 --> 6213.68] is with -[6213.68 --> 6215.34] us -[6215.34 --> 6219.34] holy -[6219.86 --> 6220.34] god -[6221.50 --> 6222.12] and -[6222.12 --> 6222.34] holy -[6222.88 --> 6223.34] man -[6224.42 --> 6225.10] he -[6225.10 --> 6225.78] comes -[6225.78 --> 6226.46] for -[6226.46 --> 6227.64] all -[6227.64 --> 6228.38] with -[6228.38 --> 6229.44] open -[6229.44 --> 6230.64] hands -[6230.64 --> 6231.34] he -[6231.34 --> 6231.36] he -[6231.36 --> 6231.96] rules -[6231.96 --> 6232.54] with -[6232.54 --> 6233.72] love -[6233.72 --> 6234.46] on -[6234.46 --> 6235.68] David's -[6235.68 --> 6236.74] throne -[6236.74 --> 6237.52] all -[6237.52 --> 6238.16] praise -[6238.16 --> 6239.92] belongs -[6239.92 --> 6240.54] to -[6240.54 --> 6241.28] Christ -[6241.28 --> 6242.84] alone -[6242.84 --> 6244.44] oh -[6244.44 --> 6245.26] hear -[6245.26 --> 6246.06] the -[6246.06 --> 6247.12] angel -[6247.12 --> 6249.22] voices -[6249.22 --> 6250.56] sing -[6250.56 --> 6251.78] come -[6251.78 --> 6252.98] let us -[6252.98 --> 6254.34] adore -[6254.34 --> 6256.02] him -[6256.02 --> 6257.52] peace -[6257.52 --> 6258.18] has -[6258.18 --> 6258.88] come -[6258.88 --> 6259.88] come -[6259.88 --> 6259.90] for our -[6259.90 --> 6260.94] king -[6260.94 --> 6261.36] is -[6261.36 --> 6262.90] with -[6262.90 --> 6265.08] us -[6265.08 --> 6276.36] holy -[6276.36 --> 6277.48] holy -[6277.48 --> 6278.36] holy -[6278.36 --> 6279.86] holy -[6279.86 --> 6282.40] jesus -[6282.40 --> 6284.78] we adore -[6284.78 --> 6285.88] the -[6285.88 --> 6286.88] peace -[6286.88 --> 6287.88] has -[6287.88 --> 6288.88] come -[6288.88 --> 6290.36] for our -[6290.36 --> 6291.20] king -[6291.20 --> 6291.88] his -[6291.88 --> 6292.88] will -[6292.88 --> 6293.88] come -[6293.88 --> 6295.68] let us -[6295.68 --> 6296.88] adore -[6296.88 --> 6298.38] him -[6298.38 --> 6299.30] oh -[6299.30 --> 6300.24] come -[6300.24 --> 6301.80] let us -[6301.80 --> 6302.88] adore -[6302.88 --> 6304.44] him -[6304.44 --> 6305.44] oh -[6305.44 --> 6306.26] come -[6306.26 --> 6307.88] let us -[6307.88 --> 6309.28] adore -[6309.28 --> 6311.28] him -[6311.28 --> 6313.98] in Christ -[6313.98 --> 6314.78] the -[6314.78 --> 6316.28] lord -[6316.28 --> 6317.28] oh -[6317.28 --> 6318.52] come -[6318.52 --> 6320.08] let us -[6320.08 --> 6321.30] adore -[6321.30 --> 6322.76] him -[6322.76 --> 6323.72] oh -[6323.72 --> 6324.58] come -[6324.58 --> 6326.18] let us -[6326.18 --> 6327.30] adore -[6327.30 --> 6328.80] him -[6328.80 --> 6329.78] oh -[6329.78 --> 6330.62] come -[6330.62 --> 6332.20] let us -[6332.20 --> 6333.70] adore -[6333.70 --> 6335.30] him -[6335.30 --> 6336.30] him -[6336.30 --> 6338.30] Christ -[6338.30 --> 6338.98] the -[6338.98 --> 6340.98] lord -[6340.98 --> 6341.30] oh -[6341.30 --> 6342.30] hear -[6342.30 --> 6343.30] the -[6343.30 --> 6344.30] angel -[6344.30 --> 6346.30] voices -[6346.30 --> 6347.30] sing -[6347.30 --> 6348.30] come -[6348.30 --> 6350.48] let us -[6350.48 --> 6351.30] adore -[6351.30 --> 6352.30] him -[6352.30 --> 6354.30] peace -[6354.30 --> 6356.30] peace -[6356.30 --> 6356.38] come -[6356.38 --> 6357.32] for our -[6357.32 --> 6358.48] king -[6358.48 --> 6358.88] is -[6358.88 --> 6359.30] with -[6359.30 --> 6360.38] us -[6360.38 --> 6361.16] peace -[6361.16 --> 6361.30] has -[6361.86 --> 6362.44] come -[6362.44 --> 6363.50] for our -[6363.50 --> 6364.62] king -[6364.62 --> 6365.02] is -[6365.02 --> 6366.56] with -[6366.56 --> 6367.30] us -[6367.30 --> 6379.30] we -[6379.30 --> 6379.84] go -[6379.84 --> 6380.48] with -[6380.48 --> 6380.82] the -[6380.82 --> 6381.16] blessing -[6381.16 --> 6381.40] of -[6381.40 --> 6381.52] our -[6381.52 --> 6381.72] God -[6381.72 --> 6381.92] go -[6381.92 --> 6382.30] also -[6382.30 --> 6382.60] with -[6382.60 --> 6382.94] two -[6382.94 --> 6383.66] invitations -[6383.66 --> 6384.30] first -[6384.30 --> 6385.34] after -[6385.34 --> 6385.82] service -[6385.82 --> 6386.12] if you -[6386.12 --> 6386.24] would -[6386.24 --> 6386.42] like -[6386.42 --> 6386.64] someone -[6386.64 --> 6386.82] to -[6386.82 --> 6387.02] pray -[6387.02 --> 6387.38] with -[6387.38 --> 6388.02] there -[6388.02 --> 6388.10] will -[6388.10 --> 6388.22] be -[6388.22 --> 6388.44] someone -[6388.44 --> 6388.72] here -[6388.72 --> 6388.96] up -[6388.96 --> 6389.20] front -[6389.20 --> 6389.40] with -[6389.40 --> 6389.52] a -[6389.52 --> 6389.70] name -[6389.70 --> 6389.94] tag -[6389.94 --> 6390.16] on -[6390.16 --> 6390.32] with -[6390.32 --> 6390.46] the -[6390.46 --> 6390.68] little -[6390.68 --> 6391.00] yellow -[6391.00 --> 6391.42] square -[6391.42 --> 6391.66] on -[6391.66 --> 6391.76] it -[6391.76 --> 6391.88] they -[6391.88 --> 6392.02] would -[6392.02 --> 6392.22] love -[6392.22 --> 6392.38] to -[6392.38 --> 6392.56] meet -[6392.56 --> 6392.74] with -[6392.74 --> 6392.96] you -[6392.96 --> 6393.52] and -[6393.52 --> 6393.82] pray -[6393.82 --> 6394.10] with -[6394.10 --> 6394.30] you -[6394.30 --> 6394.68] for -[6394.68 --> 6394.92] you -[6394.92 --> 6395.68] as -[6395.68 --> 6395.96] well -[6395.96 --> 6396.36] after -[6396.36 --> 6396.72] service -[6396.72 --> 6396.94] we're -[6396.94 --> 6397.04] going to -[6397.04 --> 6397.14] have -[6397.30 --> 6397.74] a -[6397.74 --> 6397.76] time of -[6397.76 --> 6398.34] fellowship -[6398.34 --> 6398.82] together -[6398.82 --> 6400.38] and -[6400.38 --> 6400.52] I -[6400.52 --> 6400.66] have -[6400.66 --> 6400.82] been -[6400.82 --> 6401.18] told -[6401.18 --> 6401.72] that -[6401.72 --> 6402.58] between -[6402.58 --> 6402.78] the -[6402.78 --> 6403.10] various -[6403.10 --> 6403.52] events -[6403.52 --> 6403.70] that -[6403.70 --> 6403.78] have -[6403.78 --> 6403.90] been -[6403.90 --> 6404.24] happening -[6404.24 --> 6404.60] around -[6404.60 --> 6405.08] here -[6405.08 --> 6405.38] and -[6405.38 --> 6405.58] in -[6405.58 --> 6405.82] the -[6405.82 --> 6406.14] lives -[6406.14 --> 6406.32] of -[6406.32 --> 6406.50] some -[6406.50 --> 6406.62] of -[6406.62 --> 6406.84] our -[6406.84 --> 6407.70] church -[6407.70 --> 6408.08] family -[6408.08 --> 6408.76] there's -[6408.76 --> 6409.02] going to -[6409.02 --> 6409.16] be -[6409.16 --> 6409.30] a -[6409.30 --> 6409.44] whole -[6409.44 --> 6409.76] bunch -[6409.76 --> 6409.94] of -[6409.94 --> 6410.92] goodies -[6410.92 --> 6411.60] snacks -[6411.60 --> 6412.04] and -[6412.04 --> 6412.58] cakes -[6412.58 --> 6413.14] and -[6413.14 --> 6413.54] other -[6413.54 --> 6414.06] things -[6414.06 --> 6414.54] around -[6414.54 --> 6414.78] and -[6414.78 --> 6414.96] put -[6414.96 --> 6415.18] out -[6415.18 --> 6415.36] and -[6415.36 --> 6415.56] so -[6415.56 --> 6416.06] please -[6416.06 --> 6417.42] help -[6417.42 --> 6417.90] consume -[6417.90 --> 6418.18] some -[6418.18 --> 6418.32] of -[6418.32 --> 6418.60] that -[6418.60 --> 6419.38] what -[6419.38 --> 6419.50] a -[6419.50 --> 6419.70] tough -[6419.70 --> 6419.96] labor -[6419.96 --> 6420.30] we -[6420.30 --> 6420.54] have -[6420.54 --> 6420.84] before -[6420.84 --> 6421.20] us -[6421.20 --> 6422.46] as -[6422.46 --> 6422.60] you -[6422.60 --> 6422.86] go -[6422.86 --> 6423.42] with -[6423.42 --> 6423.58] the -[6423.58 --> 6423.88] blessing -[6423.88 --> 6424.50] of -[6424.50 --> 6424.64] our -[6424.64 --> 6424.88] God -[6427.30 --> 6428.28] God -[6428.28 --> 6428.44] go -[6428.44 --> 6428.82] before -[6428.82 --> 6429.12] you -[6429.12 --> 6429.60] to -[6429.60 --> 6429.88] lead -[6429.88 --> 6430.14] you -[6430.14 --> 6430.90] God -[6430.90 --> 6431.06] go -[6431.06 --> 6431.44] behind -[6431.44 --> 6431.76] you -[6431.76 --> 6432.16] to -[6432.16 --> 6432.52] protect -[6432.52 --> 6432.78] you -[6432.78 --> 6433.22] God -[6433.22 --> 6433.44] go -[6433.44 --> 6433.82] beneath -[6433.82 --> 6434.16] you -[6434.16 --> 6434.60] to -[6434.60 --> 6435.00] support -[6435.00 --> 6435.34] you -[6435.34 --> 6435.72] and -[6435.72 --> 6436.06] God -[6436.06 --> 6436.26] go -[6436.26 --> 6436.76] beside -[6436.76 --> 6437.10] you -[6437.10 --> 6437.52] to -[6437.52 --> 6437.88] befriend -[6437.88 --> 6438.14] you -[6438.14 --> 6438.82] do -[6438.82 --> 6439.12] not -[6439.12 --> 6439.48] be -[6439.48 --> 6440.00] afraid -[6440.00 --> 6440.50] let -[6440.50 --> 6440.62] the -[6440.62 --> 6440.90] blessing -[6440.90 --> 6441.10] of -[6441.10 --> 6441.32] God -[6441.32 --> 6441.52] come -[6441.52 --> 6441.78] upon -[6441.78 --> 6441.94] you -[6441.94 --> 6442.22] today -[6442.22 --> 6442.50] do -[6442.50 --> 6442.92] not -[6442.92 --> 6443.36] be -[6443.36 --> 6443.98] afraid -[6443.98 --> 6444.50] but -[6444.50 --> 6444.86] go -[6444.86 --> 6445.70] in -[6445.70 --> 6446.20] peace -[6446.20 --> 6446.62] to -[6446.62 --> 6447.06] love -[6447.06 --> 6447.62] and -[6447.62 --> 6448.08] serve -[6448.08 --> 6448.58] the -[6448.58 --> 6448.86] Lord -[6448.86 --> 6450.38] Amen -[6450.38 --> 6453.18] as -[6453.18 --> 6453.52] we sing -[6453.52 --> 6453.70] this -[6453.70 --> 6453.98] last -[6453.98 --> 6454.30] song -[6454.30 --> 6454.84] let's -[6454.84 --> 6455.06] all -[6455.06 --> 6455.48] join -[6455.48 --> 6455.78] hands -[6455.78 --> 6456.20] together -[6456.20 --> 6457.12] across -[6457.12 --> 6457.32] our -[6457.32 --> 6457.66] rows -[6457.66 --> 6458.56] across -[6458.56 --> 6458.76] the -[6458.76 --> 6459.00] aisles -[6459.00 --> 6459.16] if -[6459.16 --> 6459.28] you -[6459.28 --> 6459.58] can -[6459.58 --> 6459.92] and -[6459.92 --> 6460.10] lift -[6460.10 --> 6460.24] them -[6460.24 --> 6460.62] together -[6460.62 --> 6461.52] during -[6461.52 --> 6461.70] the -[6461.70 --> 6462.08] chorus -[6462.08 --> 6479.00] may the -[6479.00 --> 6480.32] peace -[6480.32 --> 6481.12] of God -[6481.12 --> 6481.46] our -[6481.46 --> 6482.12] heavenly -[6482.12 --> 6483.98] father -[6483.98 --> 6485.50] and the -[6485.50 --> 6486.74] grace -[6486.74 --> 6487.54] of Christ -[6487.54 --> 6488.46] the risen -[6488.46 --> 6489.54] son -[6489.54 --> 6491.90] and the -[6491.90 --> 6493.62] fellowship -[6493.62 --> 6494.86] of God -[6494.86 --> 6496.82] spirit -[6496.82 --> 6498.32] keep our -[6498.32 --> 6499.46] hearts -[6499.46 --> 6500.34] and minds -[6500.34 --> 6500.86] within -[6500.86 --> 6503.00] his love -[6503.00 --> 6504.64] and to -[6504.64 --> 6505.48] him -[6505.48 --> 6506.08] be -[6506.08 --> 6507.00] praise -[6507.00 --> 6507.84] for his -[6507.84 --> 6508.78] glorious -[6508.78 --> 6509.90] reign -[6509.90 --> 6511.04] from the -[6511.04 --> 6511.82] depths -[6511.82 --> 6513.10] of earth -[6513.10 --> 6514.22] to the -[6514.22 --> 6515.00] heights -[6515.00 --> 6515.82] of -[6515.82 --> 6516.22] heaven -[6516.22 --> 6516.82] we -[6516.82 --> 6517.42] declare -[6517.42 --> 6518.42] the -[6518.42 --> 6519.42] name -[6519.42 --> 6520.12] of -[6520.12 --> 6520.42] the -[6520.42 --> 6521.24] lamb -[6521.24 --> 6522.02] once -[6522.02 --> 6522.58] slain -[6522.58 --> 6523.30] Christ -[6523.30 --> 6524.16] eternal -[6524.16 --> 6525.24] the -[6525.24 --> 6526.54] king -[6526.54 --> 6526.96] of -[6526.96 --> 6529.36] kings -[6529.36 --> 6532.90] may -[6532.90 --> 6533.32] the -[6533.32 --> 6534.56] peace -[6534.56 --> 6534.94] which -[6534.94 --> 6535.48] passes -[6535.48 --> 6538.26] understanding -[6538.26 --> 6539.38] and -[6539.38 --> 6539.74] this -[6539.74 --> 6540.66] grace -[6540.66 --> 6541.32] which -[6541.32 --> 6541.82] makes -[6541.82 --> 6542.18] us -[6542.18 --> 6542.52] what -[6542.52 --> 6543.02] we -[6543.02 --> 6544.64] are -[6544.64 --> 6545.78] and -[6545.78 --> 6546.14] this -[6546.14 --> 6547.86] fellowship -[6547.86 --> 6548.56] of -[6548.56 --> 6549.00] his -[6549.00 --> 6550.28] communion -[6550.28 --> 6552.18] make -[6552.18 --> 6552.54] us -[6552.54 --> 6553.74] one -[6553.74 --> 6554.10] in -[6554.10 --> 6554.66] spirit -[6554.66 --> 6555.40] and -[6555.40 --> 6555.82] in -[6555.82 --> 6558.52] and -[6558.52 --> 6558.92] to -[6558.92 --> 6559.76] him -[6559.76 --> 6560.30] be -[6560.30 --> 6561.24] praise -[6561.24 --> 6561.78] for -[6561.78 --> 6562.12] his -[6562.12 --> 6563.12] glorious -[6563.12 --> 6564.16] reign -[6564.16 --> 6564.88] from -[6564.88 --> 6565.36] the -[6565.36 --> 6566.16] depths -[6566.16 --> 6566.98] of -[6566.98 --> 6567.40] earth -[6567.40 --> 6567.98] to -[6567.98 --> 6568.50] the -[6568.50 --> 6569.30] heights -[6569.30 --> 6570.10] of -[6570.10 --> 6570.50] heaven -[6570.50 --> 6571.14] we -[6571.14 --> 6571.80] declare -[6571.80 --> 6572.90] the -[6572.90 --> 6573.70] name -[6573.70 --> 6574.40] of -[6574.40 --> 6574.78] the -[6574.78 --> 6575.56] lamb -[6575.56 --> 6576.32] once -[6576.32 --> 6576.86] slain -[6576.86 --> 6577.56] Christ -[6577.56 --> 6578.46] eternal -[6578.46 --> 6579.56] the -[6579.56 --> 6580.82] king -[6580.82 --> 6581.20] of -[6581.20 --> 6582.90] kings -[6582.90 --> 6583.84] and -[6583.84 --> 6584.24] to -[6584.24 --> 6585.04] him -[6585.04 --> 6585.64] be -[6585.64 --> 6586.38] praised -[6586.38 --> 6587.10] for -[6587.10 --> 6587.46] his -[6587.46 --> 6588.44] glorious -[6588.44 --> 6589.50] reign -[6589.50 --> 6590.22] from -[6590.22 --> 6590.72] the -[6590.72 --> 6591.56] depths -[6591.56 --> 6592.38] of -[6592.38 --> 6592.80] earth -[6592.80 --> 6593.44] to -[6593.44 --> 6593.94] the -[6593.94 --> 6594.74] heights -[6594.74 --> 6595.54] of -[6595.54 --> 6595.96] heaven -[6595.96 --> 6596.60] we -[6596.60 --> 6597.34] declare -[6597.34 --> 6598.46] the -[6598.46 --> 6599.20] name -[6599.20 --> 6600.00] of -[6600.00 --> 6600.38] the -[6600.38 --> 6601.16] lamb -[6601.16 --> 6601.92] once -[6601.92 --> 6602.46] slain -[6602.46 --> 6603.32] Christ -[6603.32 --> 6604.14] eternal -[6604.14 --> 6605.28] the -[6605.28 --> 6606.58] king -[6606.58 --> 6607.00] of -[6607.00 --> 6608.98] kings -[6608.98 --> 6609.90] Christ -[6609.90 --> 6610.84] eternal -[6610.84 --> 6612.16] the -[6612.16 --> 6613.54] king -[6613.54 --> 6614.10] of -[6614.10 --> 6616.02] kings -[6640.84 --> 6648.48] die -[6648.48 --> 6649.30] of -[6649.30 --> 6650.16] her -[6650.16 --> 6654.02] die -[6654.02 --> 6655.56] ир -[6655.56 --> 6665.80] die -[6665.80 --> 6669.04] Thank you! diff --git "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 12, 2023_summary.txt" "b/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 12, 2023_summary.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 9ab93979813f85e6477168e62bec6ebb2b8745e8..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 12, 2023_summary.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,97 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction to the worship service -• Josh's announcement for the Young Adult Ministry outing to the zoo -• Announcement for a women's Christmas dinner event on December 1st -• Invitation for volunteers to help with the holiday event -• Welcome and greeting from God, received by the congregation -• Call to worship based on Philippians 2 -• Singing of songs in praise of Jesus -• Jesus as hope for all who mourn -• Jesus as light in darkness and truth in circumstances -• Jesus as source of heaven and life on earth -• Jesus' sacrifice and resurrection -• Trusting in Jesus as rock and foundation -• Jesus as prince of peace and conqueror of fear -• The birth of Jesus as king of kings and lord of lords -• The nature of God and the purpose of Jesus' birth -• The importance of singing songs of praise to God -• Being reminded of God's mercy and redeeming love -• Faith being a journey with moments of doubt and uncertainty -• Jesus seeking out those who wander and bringing them back to the fold -• Surrendering to God's transforming power and steadfast presence -• Calling for songs of loudest praise and teaching a new song of thanksgiving -• Worship and prayer to God -• Expression of gratitude and thanksgiving -• Desires for safety and rescue from danger -• Praise and adoration of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord -• Reflections on the sacrifice and love of Jesus -• Acknowledgment of sin and need for redemption -• Expression of hope and reliance in Jesus -• Worship set with prayer and singing -• Special offering for World Renew refugee sponsorship and resettlement -• Kids Corner introduction, discussing ways to greet people from different cultures -• Participation in greetings from around the world (shaking hands, hugging, bowing) -• Discussion of cultural differences in greeting practices -• Discussing various traditional greetings from different cultures, including bowing in Japan, sticking out the tongue in Tibet, and air kissing in some Latin American countries -• Mentioning a unique greeting in Zimbabwe where one person claps once and the other responds with two claps -• Announcing an upcoming event: a tri-soup competition at the AGM meeting on November 29th -• Discussing the church's budget and giving, noting that they are slightly behind schedule for this time of year -• Sharing prayer requests for several individuals in the church community, including health issues and bereavements -• Reflecting on the importance of praying for others in the community. -• Reflection on blessings and struggles -• Prayer for those struggling with life's challenges -• Gratitude for community, staff, and ministry leadership at Emmanuel -• Recognition of trials and struggles in personal lives -• Invitation to silence and prayer -• Reading of Romans 10:14-15 -• Discussion of the necessity of preaching God's word for salvation -• The main text being studied is about calling on the name of the Lord, which means professing Jesus as Lord and believing in His resurrection. -• Not everyone who hears the message will believe, but those who do believe must declare their faith. -• To be saved, one must call on the name of the Lord, which involves declaring with their mouth that Jesus is Lord and believing in their heart that God raised Him from the dead. -• The word "Lord" (kurios) has a specific meaning in Greek, referring to Jesus as God and King. -• A Christian is someone who trusts God more than themselves, recognizing that Jesus did everything and they cannot do it on their own. -• To be a Christian, one must believe in three key truths: Jesus is Lord, God raised Him from the dead, and they trust God more than themselves. -• The speaker discusses the relationship between faith and doubt, stating that while doubt may be stronger than faith, it's never stronger than grace. -• Faith without doubts is often stagnant, and it's a rare experience for people to reach a point where they're completely confident in their faith. -• The speaker emphasizes that doubts are normal and should not be feared; instead, one should worship through them. -• Believing the truth about Jesus is what makes someone a Christian, regardless of their level of understanding or maturity. -• Faith requires hearing and understanding, which involves more than just passive listening - it's a deep and penetrating understanding of God's message. -• The speaker discusses the importance of growth in faith, using the analogy of seeds that must be planted, watered, and cultivated to grow. -• Christian tradition emphasizes "faith seeking understanding", where faith wrestles for deeper comprehension. -• Paul's question about how people can call on God if they haven't believed is answered by emphasizing the need for someone to preach or herald God's message. -• The importance of being a "herald" or ambassador for Jesus in all aspects of life -• The responsibility of sharing the message of salvation with others, regardless of location or context -• The idea that everyone is sent by God to share this message, not just missionaries or chaplains -• The need to overcome fear and anxiety to effectively share the good news of Jesus -• A challenge to "wash our feet" and make them beautiful by being obedient to God's call to share the gospel with others -• Encouragement that, despite uncertainty, believers know what to say when sharing their faith, as it is God's message and power that makes it effective. -• The importance of trusting God and relying on Jesus -• Preaching the gospel as a necessary step for salvation -• Paul's lament over Israel's rejection of the gospel and their lack of understanding -• The role of faith in hearing and responding to the gospel -• The challenge to share the gospel with others, even if they may not accept it -• How Christians can live out their trust in God by sharing the hope of Jesus with those around them. -• Importance of hearing the gospel at a young age -• Difficulty in understanding the gospel, even with proclamation -• The role of community and meal in confirming the truth of the gospel -• Invitation to receive Christ through the sacrament of communion -• Emphasis on proclaiming the message of salvation and boldly declaring Jesus as Lord -• Invitation to prayer before receiving communion -• Worship volunteers invited to come forward -• Communion service begins, with passage of bread and wine -• Congregational singing of hymns about Christ's death and resurrection -• Final invocations and blessings -• Praise for Jesus Christ as resurrected King -• Glorification of Jesus, lifted high, risen, and alive -• Singing hallelujah in worship to God's love -• Thank you prayers and expressions of gratitude -• Reflections on the blood of Jesus washing away sin -• Expression of surrender to God's will and plan -• Offerings of heart and life to God's purposes -• Standing with arms high and heart abandoned in awe -• Worship of the one who gave it all -• Call to action for those whose hearts have been converted by the gospel -• Invitation to meet and discuss faith -• Blessing from God, including protection and support -• Praise of Jesus as the Lion of Judah and Lamb who was slain -• Declaration of reign and power of Jesus over all nations -• Celebration of Jesus' victory and authority \ No newline at end of file diff --git "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 12, 2023_transcript.txt" "b/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 12, 2023_transcript.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 5ef717b5bd14931ec855ea655120f0a271fe9456..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 12, 2023_transcript.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1287 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 182.00] Thank you. -[182.00 --> 196.28] Good morning. -[196.28 --> 198.28] Thank you. -[198.28 --> 200.28] Thank you. -[200.28 --> 202.28] Thank you. -[202.28 --> 204.28] Thank you. -[204.28 --> 206.28] Thank you. -[206.28 --> 208.28] Thank you. -[208.28 --> 210.28] Thank you. -[210.28 --> 212.28] Thank you. -[212.28 --> 214.28] Thank you. -[214.28 --> 216.28] Thank you. -[216.28 --> 218.28] There it is. -[218.28 --> 220.28] There it is. -[220.28 --> 222.28] There we go. -[222.28 --> 224.28] Good morning. -[224.28 --> 226.28] Thanks for bearing with us as we figure out these fun technical issues. -[226.28 --> 228.28] Welcome to Langley Emanuel. -[228.28 --> 232.28] A special welcome if you are visiting with us this morning. -[232.28 --> 234.28] We are grateful that you are here. -[234.28 --> 236.28] We are grateful that you are here. -[236.28 --> 246.28] We are grateful that we get to gather as a body of believers, as a group of questioners, as a group of people seeking understanding in our faith. -[246.28 --> 250.28] We are grateful to be together to be together to be together to be met by God in this time and space. -[250.28 --> 252.28] We are grateful that we are here to be together to be met by God in this time and space. -[252.28 --> 256.28] We are going to worship in song and in word, but we will gather at the table together this morning. -[256.28 --> 263.28] And so, already now, continue and be ready, preparing your hearts to meet God there and be met by Him. -[263.28 --> 267.28] Before we begin, in earnest, we have a couple of announcements. -[267.28 --> 272.28] So, I am going to invite Josh up to the front, who is going to make an announcement for the Young Adult Ministry. -[272.28 --> 274.28] Hello. -[274.28 --> 277.28] Sorry, that was so much louder than I wanted it to be. -[277.28 --> 284.28] I just want to let you all know, young adults, by popular demand, today we are heading to the zoo. -[284.28 --> 290.28] So, we will be meeting at the entrance to the zoo at 1 p.m. -[290.28 --> 291.28] I just want to let you all know. -[291.28 --> 292.28] Thank you. -[292.28 --> 293.28] Bye. -[293.28 --> 303.28] I am not sure what Josh's laughter at going to the zoo indicates what he thinks about going to the zoo, but that sounds like fun. -[303.28 --> 307.28] And, if I read the forecast correct, maybe the rain will hold off just long enough. -[307.28 --> 309.28] It doesn't start raining until 4. -[309.28 --> 311.28] It doesn't start raining until 4. -[311.28 --> 312.28] Josh has spoken. -[312.28 --> 314.28] Thus spoke Josh. -[314.28 --> 322.28] As well, on December 1st, there is a winter holiday. -[322.28 --> 326.28] There is a women's Christmas dinner event happening. -[326.28 --> 330.28] If you are interested in participating in that, there is a sign-up table at the back. -[330.28 --> 334.28] There will be people there following our worship together. -[334.28 --> 335.28] You can grab them and ask questions. -[335.28 --> 344.28] They are also, I think, still looking for a couple tables, table designers, table makers to sign up. -[344.28 --> 352.28] And so, talk to them about that, if that's a special skill you have or an opportunity that you would like to serve. -[352.28 --> 354.28] I am going to invite you to stand. -[354.28 --> 356.28] As we are met by God in this place. -[356.28 --> 360.28] And we mark that by receiving his greeting. -[360.28 --> 364.28] And so, maybe you want to hold your hands out as a posture reflecting that. -[364.28 --> 366.28] Maybe you want to close your eyes. -[366.28 --> 370.28] Maybe you want to just bask in the words of God spoken over you. -[370.28 --> 373.28] Receive the greeting of our God. -[373.28 --> 377.28] Grace, mercy, and peace to you. -[377.28 --> 378.28] From God our Father. -[378.28 --> 381.28] From the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son and our Savior. -[381.28 --> 384.28] Through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[384.28 --> 385.28] Amen. -[385.28 --> 386.28] Amen. -[386.28 --> 392.28] As God has welcomed us, I am going to invite you to turn to those around and welcome them into worship as well. -[392.28 --> 393.28] Thank you. -[422.28 --> 432.28] Our call to worship this morning comes from Philippians 2. -[432.28 --> 440.28] Therefore, God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name. -[440.28 --> 447.28] That at the name of Jesus, every knee should bow in heaven and on earth and under the earth. -[447.28 --> 454.28] And every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father. -[454.28 --> 460.28] Let's join our voices and worship our Lord and Savior. -[460.28 --> 467.28] Jesus, hope of the nations. -[467.28 --> 475.28] Jesus, comfort for all who mourn. -[475.28 --> 480.28] Jesus, hope of the nations. -[480.28 --> 489.28] Jesus, comfort for all who mourn. -[489.28 --> 496.28] Jesus, Lord, you are the source of heaven's hope on earth. -[496.28 --> 502.28] Jesus, light in the darkness. -[502.28 --> 507.28] Jesus, strength in His circumstance. -[507.28 --> 514.28] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth. -[514.28 --> 519.28] In history you lived and died. -[519.28 --> 525.28] You broke the chains you rose to life. -[525.28 --> 531.28] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth. -[531.28 --> 535.28] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth. -[535.28 --> 536.28] You are the Son of God. -[536.28 --> 540.28] You are the Son of God. -[540.28 --> 545.20] Heroes from the desert -[545.20 --> 547.40] Conquering fear -[547.40 --> 549.68] Our prince of peace -[549.68 --> 551.82] Drawing us in -[551.82 --> 554.12] Jesus our hope -[554.12 --> 558.46] Living for all who will receive -[558.46 --> 562.88] Lord we believe -[570.28 --> 575.54] Jesus hope of the nations -[575.54 --> 581.42] Jesus hope for all who mourn -[581.42 --> 585.32] You are the source of heavens -[585.32 --> 588.66] All on earth -[588.66 --> 592.78] Jesus light in the darkness -[592.78 --> 597.62] Jesus truth in any circumstance -[597.62 --> 603.00] You are the source of heavens -[603.00 --> 605.54] Life on earth -[605.54 --> 610.14] In history you lived and died -[610.14 --> 612.74] You broke the chain -[612.74 --> 614.92] You rose to life -[614.92 --> 618.00] You are the hope -[618.00 --> 620.16] Living in us -[620.16 --> 622.14] You are the rock -[622.14 --> 624.42] In whom we trust -[624.42 --> 626.64] You are the light -[626.64 --> 632.02] Shining for all the world to see -[632.02 --> 634.56] Heroes from the desert -[634.56 --> 636.56] Conquering fear -[636.56 --> 639.60] Our prince of peace -[639.60 --> 641.56] Drawing us near -[641.56 --> 643.80] Jesus our hope -[643.80 --> 648.10] Living for all who will receive -[648.10 --> 652.48] Lord we believe -[652.48 --> 656.48] Lord we believe -[656.48 --> 661.02] Lord we believe -[661.02 --> 674.94] In the bleak midwinter -[674.94 --> 692.32] All creation grows -[692.32 --> 696.86] For a world in darkness -[696.86 --> 700.24] Frozen like a stone -[700.24 --> 703.24] Light is breaking -[703.24 --> 708.78] In a stable for our throne -[708.78 --> 712.16] And he shall reign -[712.16 --> 714.16] Forever more -[714.16 --> 716.16] Forever more -[716.16 --> 717.70] Forever more -[717.70 --> 721.16] And he shall reign -[721.16 --> 723.16] Forever more -[723.16 --> 725.16] Forever more -[725.16 --> 726.16] Forever more -[726.16 --> 730.16] Unto us a child is born -[730.16 --> 731.54] The king of kings -[731.54 --> 732.94] The king of kings -[732.94 --> 734.86] And lord of lords -[734.86 --> 737.66] And his shall reign -[737.66 --> 739.08] Forever more -[739.08 --> 741.08] Forever more -[741.08 --> 761.46] If I were a wise man -[761.46 --> 764.84] I would travel far -[764.84 --> 768.84] If I were a shepherd -[768.84 --> 772.58] I would do my part -[772.58 --> 775.84] As far as I am -[775.84 --> 780.30] I will give to him my heart -[780.30 --> 781.30] And his shall reign -[781.30 --> 783.60] And his shall reign -[783.60 --> 785.42] Forever more -[785.42 --> 787.30] Forever more -[787.30 --> 791.18] And his shall reign -[791.18 --> 793.08] Forever more -[793.08 --> 795.30] Forever more -[795.30 --> 799.52] Unto us a child is born -[799.52 --> 801.62] The king of kings -[801.62 --> 803.32] And lord of lords -[803.32 --> 806.24] And his shall reign -[806.24 --> 808.08] Forever more -[808.08 --> 811.08] Forever more -[811.08 --> 811.20] Forever more -[811.20 --> 822.00] And the nature lies -[822.00 --> 823.80] The one who made -[823.80 --> 825.54] The starry sky -[825.54 --> 829.22] May be born for sacrifice -[829.22 --> 831.98] Christ our Messiah -[831.98 --> 834.88] Into our hopes -[834.88 --> 836.66] Into our fears -[836.66 --> 839.34] The savior of the world -[839.34 --> 840.22] The world appears -[840.22 --> 844.04] The promise of eternal years -[844.04 --> 846.62] Christ our Messiah -[846.62 --> 850.32] And his shall reign -[850.32 --> 852.20] Forever more -[852.20 --> 854.54] Forever more -[854.54 --> 857.64] And he shall reign -[857.64 --> 859.42] Forever more -[859.42 --> 861.94] Forever more -[861.94 --> 864.94] And he shall reign -[864.94 --> 866.72] Forever more -[866.72 --> 868.94] Forever more -[868.94 --> 872.10] And he shall reign -[872.10 --> 873.94] Forever more -[873.94 --> 875.94] Forever more -[875.94 --> 880.10] Unto us a child is born -[880.10 --> 882.10] The king of kings -[882.10 --> 883.72] The lord of lords -[883.72 --> 885.94] And he shall reign -[885.94 --> 888.16] Forever more -[888.16 --> 889.94] Forever more -[889.94 --> 892.94] And he shall reign -[892.94 --> 893.94] Forever more -[893.94 --> 894.94] Forever more -[894.94 --> 896.94] Forever more -[896.94 --> 899.94] And he shall reign -[899.94 --> 901.94] Forever more -[901.94 --> 902.94] Forever more -[902.94 --> 904.94] Forever more -[904.94 --> 908.18] I invite you to be seated. -[908.18 --> 914.14] As an assurance of forgiveness -[914.14 --> 916.74] We're going to sing -[916.74 --> 918.12] Come Thou Fount -[918.12 --> 919.56] In a moment -[919.56 --> 920.70] But before we do -[920.70 --> 922.26] I wanted to talk about -[922.26 --> 922.88] The lyrics -[922.88 --> 925.24] Sometimes we sing a song -[925.24 --> 925.90] So often -[925.90 --> 927.34] We are not impacted -[927.34 --> 928.30] By the words anymore -[928.30 --> 930.00] In the first verse -[930.00 --> 930.88] We're asking God -[930.88 --> 931.68] To teach us -[931.68 --> 932.60] His song -[932.60 --> 933.76] Of never ending grace -[933.76 --> 937.22] We are to look at -[937.22 --> 937.98] What God has done -[937.98 --> 938.54] For us -[938.54 --> 939.76] His mercy -[939.76 --> 940.60] Which is new -[940.60 --> 941.20] Every morning -[941.20 --> 944.10] And we are to respond -[944.10 --> 944.96] With songs -[944.96 --> 946.06] Of loudest praise -[946.06 --> 949.36] We are a forgetful people -[949.36 --> 950.42] And we need -[950.42 --> 951.92] A constant reminder -[951.92 --> 953.20] To recalibrate -[953.20 --> 953.72] Our hearts -[953.72 --> 954.96] To sing this tune -[954.96 --> 957.08] To be reminded -[957.08 --> 958.60] Of his redeeming love -[958.60 --> 959.56] That it was demonstrated -[959.56 --> 960.28] On the mount -[960.28 --> 961.34] The mount of Calvary -[961.34 --> 962.54] Calvary where Jesus -[962.54 --> 963.28] Was crucified -[963.28 --> 964.96] And the assurance -[964.96 --> 965.56] Is this -[965.56 --> 967.14] That we are fixed -[967.14 --> 968.14] Upon that very mount -[968.14 --> 968.78] Of Calvary -[968.78 --> 970.56] We are held fast -[970.56 --> 971.76] To this vast love -[971.76 --> 972.46] That seeks -[972.46 --> 973.78] To shower affection -[973.78 --> 974.28] On us -[974.28 --> 974.76] Despite -[974.76 --> 976.56] What we do -[976.56 --> 979.32] In the second verse -[979.32 --> 980.78] We see the word -[980.78 --> 981.50] Ebenezer -[981.50 --> 983.28] Which is referring -[983.28 --> 984.20] To the stone -[984.20 --> 985.16] Of help -[985.16 --> 986.52] From 1 Samuel -[986.52 --> 987.26] Where Samuel -[987.26 --> 988.56] Set this stone -[988.56 --> 989.48] As a reminder -[989.48 --> 991.68] That it was God -[991.68 --> 992.40] Who carried -[992.40 --> 993.06] The Israelites -[993.06 --> 994.46] Through all their troubles -[994.46 --> 996.04] And brought them -[996.04 --> 997.30] To where they are now -[997.30 --> 999.70] Faith is a journey -[999.70 --> 1001.74] And in every step -[1001.74 --> 1003.98] We raise our own stones -[1003.98 --> 1005.24] Of remembrance -[1005.24 --> 1006.96] Acknowledging -[1006.96 --> 1008.82] The faithfulness of God -[1008.82 --> 1010.04] In our lives -[1010.04 --> 1012.54] In our moments of doubt -[1012.54 --> 1013.78] And uncertainty -[1013.78 --> 1016.00] Even in our wandering -[1016.00 --> 1018.56] Jesus seeks us out -[1018.56 --> 1020.08] And brings us back -[1020.08 --> 1021.60] To the fold of God -[1021.60 --> 1023.24] Each day -[1023.24 --> 1023.26] Each day -[1023.26 --> 1023.28] Each day -[1023.28 --> 1023.56] Each day -[1023.56 --> 1023.68] Each day -[1023.68 --> 1024.68] We find ourselves -[1024.68 --> 1025.58] Desperately -[1025.58 --> 1026.46] In need -[1026.46 --> 1027.62] Of God's grace -[1027.62 --> 1030.22] In the third verse -[1030.22 --> 1031.86] We see this word -[1031.86 --> 1032.42] Fetter -[1032.42 --> 1034.50] Which is another word -[1034.50 --> 1035.14] For chain -[1035.14 --> 1036.66] Stressing -[1036.66 --> 1038.00] That it is God -[1038.00 --> 1038.88] Who keeps us -[1038.88 --> 1039.70] From wandering -[1039.70 --> 1041.08] From the blessings -[1041.08 --> 1042.74] He lavishes upon us -[1042.74 --> 1043.38] In Jesus -[1043.38 --> 1045.32] It is God -[1045.32 --> 1046.08] Who promises -[1046.08 --> 1047.18] That nothing -[1047.18 --> 1048.68] Can separate us -[1048.68 --> 1049.66] From his love -[1049.66 --> 1052.10] We cannot flourish -[1052.10 --> 1053.38] By our own strength -[1053.38 --> 1055.70] But through the transforming power -[1055.70 --> 1056.84] Of the Holy Spirit -[1056.84 --> 1058.68] We are invited -[1058.68 --> 1060.00] To surrender -[1060.00 --> 1061.36] Our wandering hearts -[1061.36 --> 1063.00] Finding comfort -[1063.00 --> 1064.14] And steadfast -[1064.14 --> 1066.10] In his unfailing presence -[1066.10 --> 1068.22] Would you stand -[1068.22 --> 1068.76] And join us -[1068.76 --> 1069.24] In this one -[1069.24 --> 1078.74] Come the fount -[1078.74 --> 1081.58] Of every blessing -[1081.58 --> 1084.00] In my heart -[1084.00 --> 1086.90] To sing thy praise -[1086.90 --> 1089.38] Streams of mercy -[1089.38 --> 1091.98] Never ceasing -[1091.98 --> 1094.16] Call for songs -[1094.16 --> 1097.08] Of loudest praise -[1097.08 --> 1099.26] Teach me a song -[1099.26 --> 1102.30] A melodious sonnet -[1102.30 --> 1104.42] Sung by flaming -[1104.42 --> 1106.32] Tongues above -[1106.32 --> 1109.12] Praise the mountain -[1109.12 --> 1111.94] Fixed upon it -[1111.94 --> 1113.94] Mount of thy -[1113.94 --> 1116.48] Redeeming love -[1116.48 --> 1126.40] Here I raise -[1126.40 --> 1128.00] My ebony -[1128.00 --> 1129.32] Easer -[1129.32 --> 1131.20] Hither by -[1131.20 --> 1132.50] Thy help -[1132.50 --> 1133.88] I've come -[1133.88 --> 1136.20] And I hope -[1136.20 --> 1138.94] Thy good pleasure -[1138.94 --> 1142.12] Safely to arrive -[1142.12 --> 1143.54] At home -[1143.54 --> 1144.88] Jesus -[1144.88 --> 1144.90] Jesus -[1144.90 --> 1146.08] Harking -[1146.08 --> 1147.58] When I -[1147.58 --> 1148.70] Stranger -[1148.70 --> 1150.02] Wandering -[1150.02 --> 1150.84] From -[1150.84 --> 1151.70] The -[1151.70 --> 1152.16] Fold -[1152.16 --> 1152.56] Of -[1152.56 --> 1153.66] God -[1153.66 --> 1154.54] He -[1154.54 --> 1154.98] To -[1154.98 --> 1156.12] Rescue -[1156.12 --> 1156.98] Me -[1156.98 --> 1157.50] From -[1157.50 --> 1158.70] Danger -[1158.70 --> 1160.92] Interposed -[1160.92 --> 1161.74] His -[1161.74 --> 1162.56] Precious -[1162.56 --> 1163.80] Blood -[1163.80 --> 1172.34] O to -[1172.34 --> 1173.46] Grace -[1173.46 --> 1174.14] How -[1174.14 --> 1174.74] Great -[1174.74 --> 1175.16] A -[1175.16 --> 1176.54] Debtor -[1176.54 --> 1177.38] Daily -[1177.38 --> 1178.52] I'm -[1178.52 --> 1179.70] Constrained -[1179.70 --> 1180.14] To -[1180.14 --> 1181.10] Be -[1181.10 --> 1182.26] Let -[1182.26 --> 1182.68] Thy -[1182.68 --> 1183.74] Goodness -[1183.74 --> 1184.84] Like -[1184.84 --> 1185.30] A -[1185.30 --> 1186.42] Fatter -[1186.42 --> 1187.34] Bind -[1187.34 --> 1187.76] My -[1187.76 --> 1189.28] Wondering -[1189.28 --> 1189.84] Heart -[1189.84 --> 1190.26] To -[1190.26 --> 1191.84] Thee -[1191.84 --> 1192.38] Prone -[1192.38 --> 1192.66] To -[1192.66 --> 1193.84] Wonder -[1193.84 --> 1194.94] Lord -[1194.94 --> 1195.30] I -[1195.30 --> 1196.26] Feel -[1196.26 --> 1196.92] It -[1196.92 --> 1197.44] Prone -[1197.44 --> 1197.72] To -[1197.72 --> 1198.76] Believe -[1198.76 --> 1199.22] The -[1199.22 --> 1200.02] God -[1200.02 --> 1200.36] I -[1200.36 --> 1201.48] Love -[1201.48 --> 1202.52] Is -[1202.52 --> 1202.94] My -[1202.94 --> 1203.78] Heart -[1203.78 --> 1204.40] Lord -[1204.40 --> 1205.12] Take -[1205.12 --> 1205.54] And -[1205.54 --> 1206.52] Seal -[1206.52 --> 1206.92] It -[1206.92 --> 1207.76] Seal -[1207.76 --> 1208.12] It -[1208.12 --> 1208.96] For -[1208.96 --> 1209.80] Thy -[1209.80 --> 1210.42] Courts -[1210.42 --> 1211.58] Above -[1211.58 --> 1213.22] Heart -[1213.22 --> 1214.26] Heart -[1214.26 --> 1214.84] Lord -[1214.84 --> 1215.62] Take -[1215.62 --> 1216.04] And -[1216.04 --> 1217.02] Seal -[1217.02 --> 1217.44] It -[1217.44 --> 1218.38] Seal -[1218.38 --> 1218.78] It -[1218.78 --> 1219.68] For -[1219.68 --> 1220.42] Thy -[1220.42 --> 1221.12] Heart -[1221.12 --> 1221.80] Above -[1221.80 --> 1222.06] Om -[1222.64 --> 1226.44] Luke -[1226.44 --> 1227.52] Mother -[1227.52 --> 1228.16] Pete -[1236.16 --> 1237.40] がとう -[1237.40 --> 1238.28] 走 -[1238.36 --> 1238.74] reichen -[1238.74 --> 1238.78] arrange -[1238.78 --> 1238.80] 刻 -[1238.80 --> 1239.66] congregate -[1239.66 --> 1240.54] chel -[1240.54 --> 1240.64] l -[1240.64 --> 1240.74] Dag -[1240.74 --> 1241.18] 달 -[1241.18 --> 1241.86] Ap -[1241.86 --> 1242.48] 血 -[1242.48 --> 1242.62] 头 -[1242.62 --> 1243.18] 阿 -[1243.18 --> 1243.60] ega -[1243.60 --> 1244.10] Noah -[1244.10 --> 1244.96] time -[1245.00 --> 1246.02] seed -[1246.02 --> 1246.78] amine -[1246.78 --> 1247.04] 祉 -[1247.04 --> 1247.90] operations -[1247.90 --> 1248.84] OSH -[1248.84 --> 1248.96] nobody -[1249.78 --> 1250.24] �지 -[1250.24 --> 1250.52] éo -[1250.52 --> 1273.54] He became sin, who knew no sin, that we might become his righteousness. -[1273.54 --> 1280.88] He humbled himself and carried the cross. -[1280.88 --> 1302.88] Love so amazing, love so amazing, Jesus Messiah, name above all names. -[1303.54 --> 1323.44] Blessed Redeemer, Emmanuel, the rescue for sinners, the ransom from heaven. -[1323.44 --> 1335.44] Jesus Messiah, Lord of all. -[1335.44 --> 1347.44] His body the bread, his blood the wine, broken and poured out all for love. -[1347.44 --> 1354.00] The whole earth trembled and the veil was torn. -[1355.60 --> 1375.44] Love so amazing, love so amazing, Jesus Messiah, name above all names. -[1375.44 --> 1395.44] Blessed Redeemer, Emmanuel, the rescue for sinners, the rescue from heaven. -[1395.44 --> 1405.44] Jesus Messiah, Lord of all. -[1405.44 --> 1412.44] All our hope is in you. -[1412.44 --> 1417.44] All our hope is in you. -[1417.44 --> 1424.44] All our glory to you, God. -[1424.44 --> 1429.44] The light of the whole world. -[1429.44 --> 1440.52] Jesus Messiah, Jesus Messiah, name above all names. -[1440.52 --> 1458.52] Blessed Redeemer, Emmanuel, the rescue for sinners, the ransom from heaven. -[1458.52 --> 1465.52] Jesus Messiah, Lord of all names. -[1465.52 --> 1469.52] Lord of all names. -[1469.52 --> 1481.52] Jesus Messiah, Lord of all names. -[1481.52 --> 1488.52] We would like to end our worship set with this prayer that Jesus be the center of our lives. -[1488.52 --> 1494.52] That our relationship with him influence all we are and all we do. -[1494.52 --> 1496.52] Jesus Messiah, Lord of all names. -[1496.52 --> 1501.52] Jesus Messiah, Lord of all names. -[1502.52 --> 1505.52] Jesus Messiah, Lord of all names. -[1505.52 --> 1508.52] Godkwaan. -[1508.52 --> 1513.52] Jesus Messiah, Lord of all names. -[1513.52 --> 1515.52] That our heart is unworthy. -[1515.52 --> 1531.62] Jesus, be the center. -[1533.62 --> 1540.98] Be my source, be my light, Jesus. -[1545.52 --> 1553.54] Jesus, be the center. -[1555.78 --> 1562.54] Be my hope, be my soul, Jesus. -[1565.54 --> 1571.76] Be the fire in my heart. -[1571.76 --> 1577.14] Be the wind in these sails. -[1577.38 --> 1582.24] Be the reason that I live. -[1582.88 --> 1586.66] Jesus, Jesus. -[1586.66 --> 1599.14] Jesus, be my vision. -[1601.04 --> 1606.04] Be my path, be my guide. -[1606.04 --> 1617.16] Jesus, be the fire in my heart. -[1617.52 --> 1622.50] Be the wind in these sails. -[1623.06 --> 1627.04] Be the reason that I live. -[1627.04 --> 1632.16] Jesus, Jesus. -[1634.66 --> 1640.82] Be the fire in my heart. -[1641.44 --> 1645.94] Be the wind in these sails. -[1646.42 --> 1650.96] Be the reason that I live. -[1650.96 --> 1655.34] Jesus, Jesus. -[1655.34 --> 1658.34] Jesus, Jesus. -[1658.34 --> 1680.98] Jesus, Jesus. -[1680.98 --> 1684.52] Good morning. -[1685.24 --> 1692.42] Today's special offering is for World Renew refugee sponsorship and resettlement. -[1693.00 --> 1701.44] World Renew is one of a handful of Canadian agencies that have been granted a sponsorship agreement by Citizenship and Immigration Canada. -[1702.16 --> 1707.28] This agreement enables Christian reform congregations to partner with other churches or groups -[1707.28 --> 1717.62] to facilitate the process of refugee sponsorship to Canada in collaborative activities of love, mercy, justice, and compassion. -[1718.52 --> 1726.02] In addition to refugee sponsorship, World Renew also speaks up about refugee issues -[1726.02 --> 1733.22] and encourages Canadians to join in in voicing concerns about immigration, reform, and refugee rights. -[1733.22 --> 1737.28] This is a way of putting faith into action that can change lives. -[1737.52 --> 1738.22] Thank you. -[1738.22 --> 1759.52] No place I would rather be -[1759.52 --> 1769.16] Than here in your love -[1771.72 --> 1774.10] No place I'd rather be -[1774.10 --> 1786.42] be no place i'd rather be no place i'd rather be than here in your love here in your love -[1787.62 --> 1798.10] so set a fire down in my soul that i can't contain that i can't control i want more of you god -[1798.10 --> 1810.26] i want more of you god so set a fire down in my soul that i can't contain that i can't control -[1811.06 --> 1826.10] i want more of you god i want more of you god -[1828.10 --> 1843.46] no place i'd rather be no place i'd rather be no place i would rather be -[1844.10 --> 1848.10] than here in your love here in your love -[1848.10 --> 1862.10] no place i want more of you god -[1862.10 --> 1876.10] no place i want more of you god -[1876.10 --> 1890.10] no place i want more of you god -[1890.10 --> 1904.10] good morning -[1907.22 --> 1913.06] good morning if you are age three up to grade four i'd like to invite you to come join us up the front -[1913.06 --> 1927.06] for kids corner and then children's worship time -[1930.58 --> 1938.82] my question for you guys this morning is what are some different ways that we greet people so if you're -[1938.82 --> 1942.02] seeing someone on the street or at school how would you greet them -[1945.78 --> 1949.38] oh you're going to be kind to them when you greet them that's excellent ruby -[1951.22 --> 1955.54] you could say hello that's a way that we greet people a lot of the time kareth -[1956.98 --> 1963.38] you could shake their hand you could welcome them you could do something like this -[1963.38 --> 1969.14] you could wave at them right there's lots of different ways that we greet people now did you -[1969.14 --> 1975.78] know that in different places around the world they have different ways of greeting people so we're -[1975.78 --> 1980.18] going to practice a few of those to see what it's like to greet people in different way so i'm going -[1980.18 --> 1984.82] to get you guys to stand up actually i'm going to get everyone to stand up this is a full church -[1984.82 --> 1992.82] participation part of kids corner if there's a greeting that you don't feel comfortable doing -[1992.82 --> 1997.94] you can just skip that one that's fine but i won't make them too difficult so the first one i want you -[1997.94 --> 2003.30] to try is one that one of our kids mentioned and it's a way that we often greet people in canada and -[2003.30 --> 2007.62] that's by shaking someone's hand so find someone around you and shake their hand -[2007.62 --> 2021.78] all right we started off pretty easy now sometimes in in canada if you know somebody well if maybe -[2021.78 --> 2026.58] you're greeting like your aunt came to visit or you've seen your grandma for the first time in a -[2026.58 --> 2031.62] while you might give them a hug so you can try if there's someone around you you feel comfortable -[2031.62 --> 2047.46] giving a hug to you can give someone a hug great job great job now there are some places in the world -[2047.46 --> 2053.14] where greeting someone with a hug is is not so you you don't do that you don't greet someone with a hug -[2053.14 --> 2059.54] and one of those places is in japan so in japan from what i understand that is not a common practice -[2059.54 --> 2065.54] but instead you would greet somebody by bowing toward them and if it was someone older than you -[2065.54 --> 2071.54] like your grandparent or an elder you would bow lower to them to show more respect so you're going -[2071.54 --> 2087.54] to try doing a bow greeting now to someone around you bow your whole body from your hips down -[2089.54 --> 2099.46] so if you were living in um somewhere like india or thailand they also do a bow sort of a greeting but -[2099.46 --> 2104.10] it's a little bit different because they don't bow in japan it's more about your body like hinging from -[2104.10 --> 2110.90] your hips in in thailand or india or some other places i'm sure they put their hands together kind of -[2110.90 --> 2117.30] like like like that like we say praying and then they they do just a kind of a small bow like that -[2117.30 --> 2126.82] with their the top so you can try that one -[2129.94 --> 2135.14] now this one is a little bit interesting and this is a greeting in a place called tibet which is a part -[2135.14 --> 2141.22] of china and in tibet a traditional way to greet someone is by sticking out your tongue at them -[2141.22 --> 2145.06] kind of like this try it out -[2145.06 --> 2164.82] if you were to live in argentina or peru or some latin american countries in south america their way -[2164.82 --> 2171.22] of greeting someone is to give somebody an air kiss on one cheek so only one cheek and you don't -[2171.22 --> 2177.54] actually touch them but you would just do like an air kiss if you feel comfortable with that one your -[2177.54 --> 2185.22] choice -[2189.14 --> 2194.66] a lot of places in europe i think maybe some of us are more familiar they do they kiss on the cheek as -[2194.66 --> 2200.82] well but we're gonna we're gonna skip those ones i'm gonna do one more this is a greeting in zimbabwe -[2201.22 --> 2207.70] which is in africa and there is a traditional greeting where the first person so if i was going -[2207.70 --> 2213.54] to greet then i would do one clap and then the person i was greeting would respond by doing two -[2213.54 --> 2219.22] claps so you can try that out -[2219.22 --> 2233.86] all right thank you for playing along you can have a seat so the reason we're talking about this is -[2233.86 --> 2238.50] because for us in children's worship time today we are going to be talking about how the different -[2238.50 --> 2245.46] ways that god talks to us and some of them are a little bit interesting and maybe unexpected and today -[2245.46 --> 2252.42] we're going to be learning about a way that god talked to moses in an unusual way so actually now -[2252.42 --> 2257.14] that we sat down i'm just thinking we all have to stand up so back up it's exercise and church -[2257.14 --> 2271.14] all right let's do the blessing -[2277.14 --> 2278.10] you're not cool -[2278.10 --> 2285.14] where are you -[2287.22 --> 2290.26] good morning everyone my name is eric i'm an elder here at emmanuel -[2292.42 --> 2296.98] got two items on my list here to go over first of all we had a council meeting this past week so i -[2296.98 --> 2303.06] got a little bit of a summary of our meeting for you all we had a great meeting we had an opportunity -[2303.06 --> 2308.02] to review all the volunteers that are helping out with all the programs and ministries at emmanuel here -[2308.02 --> 2312.82] so it's great to see all the people in our community here stepping up to make those things happen -[2312.82 --> 2319.06] uh we had an opportunity to review the budget that was submitted by finance and uh those -[2319.86 --> 2324.34] the budget has been sent to you in your midweek memo or by email so you can review that -[2324.34 --> 2330.02] uh which will follow up to be a agm meeting happening on november 29th which is a wednesday -[2330.02 --> 2336.50] uh we got a kind of a fun idea happening on that meeting we're going to do a tri soup competition -[2337.14 --> 2342.18] so i think uh we're going to hopefully get a number of you to make some soup so we're going -[2342.18 --> 2346.10] to have a little competition here to see who makes the best soup so we're going to have a little bit of -[2346.10 --> 2352.18] a time of social and having a meal before the meeting so more details about that in your package -[2352.18 --> 2359.62] for the agm that's on november 29th uh the last thing that i want to talk about is uh as always -[2359.62 --> 2365.06] at this time of the year we always have a conversation about uh the budget and the giving so we are a -[2365.06 --> 2370.10] little bit behind which is usually typical at this time of the year most uh the time at emmanuel a lot -[2370.10 --> 2374.74] of the givings happen in december so i want to make sure that you have time with your family to -[2374.74 --> 2382.74] prayerfully consider how you can support the needs of emmanuel here as well i'm doing the family prayer -[2382.74 --> 2391.14] this morning a few things that were in the midweek memo that i would like to review uh one that isn't -[2391.14 --> 2397.22] in there uh this week talal ajil one of the first uh families that emmanuel has sponsored here -[2398.10 --> 2401.54] he became a canadian citizen this week so we're here to celebrate that -[2405.54 --> 2410.58] it was a little bit of a long road for him because of his disabilities but it uh it happened this week -[2410.58 --> 2416.98] so we're grateful for that uh if you haven't had a chance to read in the in your in the bulletin joanne -[2416.98 --> 2422.42] miles has been diagnosed with parkinson's so our prayers go out to her as she makes her way through -[2422.42 --> 2431.62] that diagnosis uh jaredina jansen's granddaughter was diagnosed with lupus tiana vrend cancer has come back so -[2431.62 --> 2439.62] that's uh uh brenda and linda's mom and uh she's not doing well so she's in gonna be moving to -[2439.62 --> 2446.10] palliative care in langley here shortly uh frank and sylvia welping's grandson grayson we're praying that -[2446.10 --> 2452.10] he can continue to grow strong and healthy and of course in the last few weeks we've had a number of -[2452.58 --> 2458.18] people in our church who've experienced those loved ones who have passed away remember the kunst family -[2458.18 --> 2460.74] the benite family and the hogawonings -[2463.78 --> 2467.94] as i was preparing for this family pair i spent some time reflecting on what is happening around -[2467.94 --> 2473.86] me in my life and in our church community i went to the midweek memo to see what the prayer requests -[2473.86 --> 2479.38] had been for the week in my reflection i realized there's so much going on in people's lives that does -[2479.38 --> 2485.70] not make the prayer request column of our church i know that in my own life there are so many things -[2485.70 --> 2491.22] that are going on that need prayer and these things take up a lot of time in my head and float around in -[2491.22 --> 2497.54] my daily thinking those who i'm close to in my life have similar struggles going on as well so i'm -[2497.54 --> 2504.50] confident that you all have things that you want to pray for as well the thing that i struggle with and -[2504.50 --> 2510.26] am thankful for is that i can also reflect on the many blessings god has given me and to those around me -[2510.26 --> 2518.90] those things that make you smile or warm your heart or make you so thankful i ask myself i don't -[2518.90 --> 2524.10] understand why is that there's so many things that don't seem to be going right but there are so many -[2524.10 --> 2531.22] things that are going right so since we are here this morning and there is nowhere to go no one asking -[2531.22 --> 2537.22] or demanding your attention and few distractions i'm going to have some time of silence in my prayer where -[2537.22 --> 2543.62] you can lay those prayer requests and questions that you have at the feet of jesus and also those -[2543.62 --> 2550.50] prayers of thanksgiving for the blessings you have received as well last week we sang a song called how -[2550.50 --> 2556.66] great thou art and that was so assuring i will close my prayer with those lyrics join me in prayer -[2558.98 --> 2560.82] dear god thank you for this great day -[2560.82 --> 2567.86] thank you that we can meet here together freely knowing full well that many parts of this world -[2567.86 --> 2574.50] cannot meet like we do today we thank you lord for this tight community we have here at emmanuel where -[2574.50 --> 2582.26] we can care and love each other and do our best to support each other we thank you for our staff and -[2582.26 --> 2588.42] ministry leadership people here at emmanuel that you have blessed us with we thank you lord for the many -[2588.42 --> 2595.22] blessings that our community receives from you we think of talalajil's canadian citizenship the babies -[2595.22 --> 2601.70] that are born and baptized here the professions of faith that happen the successful programs that we -[2601.70 --> 2608.82] have like gems cadets and the senior groups and many others lord along with these blessings come the -[2608.82 --> 2615.14] trials and struggles of life we are aware of those in our lives that are struggling with disease sickness or -[2615.14 --> 2621.38] chronic pain we have those in our lives that have to deal with difficult relationships maybe in our -[2621.38 --> 2628.02] own home or extended family or at work we have children that make decisions or are living lives that -[2628.02 --> 2634.58] keep us up late at night or cause stress in our lives lord we have people in our lives that struggle with -[2634.58 --> 2639.06] mental health and loneliness and walking that road can be very difficult and challenging -[2639.06 --> 2646.66] and lord many of us struggle with the pressures of life making enough money to provide worrying about -[2646.66 --> 2652.82] the stability of jobs or simply not enjoying their work and wondering what god's plan is for their lives -[2654.10 --> 2667.06] lord we want to take a few moments of silence to bring these struggles and strife to you so we can feel your presence in peace -[2669.06 --> 2692.02] hear our prayers oh lord answer our prayers oh lord help us to see and understand that you are our father and love us -[2692.02 --> 2699.06] and will care for us and will care for and provide for us help us not to get bogged down in the struggles of life but also open our -[2699.06 --> 2708.82] eyes to the many blessings you give us and have given us hear the words of this great song oh lord my god when i an awesome wonder -[2709.70 --> 2718.98] consider all the worlds thy hands have made i see the stars i hear the rolling thunder thy power throughout the universe displayed -[2718.98 --> 2729.46] then sings my soul my savior god to thee how great thou art how great thou art then sings my soul my savior god to thee -[2730.34 --> 2734.02] how great thou art how great thou art amen -[2741.14 --> 2741.70] thanks sir -[2748.98 --> 2763.70] if you have one uh with you or on your phone i'm going to invite you to open your bibles to romans 10 -[2764.82 --> 2770.58] we're going to continue in our series on romans beginning at verse 14 in chapter 10 and then we'll read -[2770.58 --> 2778.74] through the end of the chapter um before we begin um excuse me i'm particularly mindful of the fact that -[2779.94 --> 2789.62] you are about to participate in a text and a message that highlights the absolute utter necessity -[2790.50 --> 2796.98] for preaching the word in the life of believers and i am losing my voice -[2800.02 --> 2804.50] malachi had a soccer game yesterday that was particularly close and i am one of the assistant -[2804.50 --> 2811.14] coaches and so i got loud and i think that may have affected uh my ability to speak this morning -[2811.14 --> 2818.34] and so either that or uh the devil is at work and he doesn't want this message heard -[2819.22 --> 2824.58] um hoping it's the former but even if it's the latter you're going to get the same message i might just -[2824.58 --> 2826.34] have to take a break for water every moment -[2826.34 --> 2831.14] we are going to come into this text um -[2832.74 --> 2838.74] based on where we have been and the the journey that that paul has taken us on -[2839.30 --> 2847.70] particularly in romans 9 through to where we are now as we've dug deep and focused on that and we've -[2847.70 --> 2851.30] looked at god's sovereignty and we've asked the question -[2851.30 --> 2858.26] how does god work in the world to bring salvation what does he do and what's our part in that -[2860.74 --> 2868.66] today we come to another step in that journey looking at god's sovereignty and asking what's our part -[2869.62 --> 2874.26] in that and so with that let's read together -[2874.26 --> 2880.10] romans 10 beginning at verse 14 -[2882.18 --> 2888.66] how then can they call on the one they have not believed in how can they believe in the one of -[2888.66 --> 2895.86] whom they have not heard and how can they hear without someone preaching to them and how can anyone -[2895.86 --> 2903.62] preach unless they are sent as it is written how beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news -[2904.26 --> 2911.86] but not all the israelites accepted the good news for isaiah says lord who has believed our message -[2913.06 --> 2919.86] consequently faith comes from hearing the message and the message is heard through the word about christ -[2921.14 --> 2930.02] but i ask did they not hear of course they did their voice has gone out into all the earth -[2930.02 --> 2940.18] their words to the ends of the world again i ask did israel not understand first moses says i will make you -[2940.18 --> 2946.34] envious by those who are not a nation and i will make you angry by a nation that has no understanding -[2947.38 --> 2952.18] and isaiah boldly says i was bound by those who did not seek me -[2952.18 --> 2962.74] i revealed myself to those who did not ask for me but concerning israel he says all day long i have -[2962.74 --> 2969.22] held out my hands to a disobedient and obstinate people this is the word of the lord -[2973.06 --> 2980.42] now i began just a moment ago by saying that this is a text about the absolute and utter necessity -[2980.42 --> 2988.02] of the preached word and to be clear this is one of those places and times where i could stand here and be like -[2988.02 --> 2989.78] this is my job security -[2991.78 --> 3000.02] but what i hope you will see is that this text isn't just about me as a pastor preacher in a church -[3000.02 --> 3005.30] but this text is about all of us who profess to believe -[3005.30 --> 3017.70] and the big idea here is that not everyone who hears will believe but everyone who believes -[3017.70 --> 3022.82] must declare i think that's an old big idea from last time let's not put that one up there -[3023.46 --> 3029.70] not everyone who hears will believe but everyone who believes must declare because everyone who believes -[3029.70 --> 3036.02] will have heard now i know that's a jumble and a journey but we're going to get through there not -[3036.02 --> 3042.90] everyone who hears will believe but everyone who does believe must declare because everyone who believes will have -[3043.62 --> 3050.42] heard and so let's dig in i hope your bibles are open we're going to refer back for a moment to -[3050.42 --> 3058.34] what has come before in order to make sense of what comes next so the last section ended the last section -[3058.34 --> 3064.98] that we looked at ends with verse 13 saying everyone who calls on the name of the lord -[3064.98 --> 3072.50] will be saved and the reality for us there right is that that all anyone needs to do is all that anyone can -[3072.50 --> 3078.42] do all anyone needs to do is all anyone can do and that's calling the name of the lord -[3079.14 --> 3086.66] right the whole point of romans up to this point in our journey together is has been for us to see that we -[3086.66 --> 3098.18] that what we need to do in order to be saved we can't do but god did right that the justice -[3098.82 --> 3105.22] the judgment of sin and in the perfect standard of obedience required for righteousness that both of -[3105.22 --> 3113.30] those are just too much for us to bear and so what we couldn't do or what romans 8 verse 3 says what the -[3113.30 --> 3121.14] law was powerless to do god did by sending his son in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering -[3122.66 --> 3128.26] so i'll say it again all anyone needs to do is call on the one who has done it -[3130.26 --> 3138.90] now what paul does then is he clarifies for us what the content of calling on the name of the lord -[3138.90 --> 3146.50] looks like or sounds like and so let's look back on this section to call on the name of the lord is -[3146.50 --> 3154.66] to as we read in verse 9 declare with your mouth jesus is lord and believe in your heart god raised him -[3154.66 --> 3162.18] from the dead so i want to dig into that quickly with you for just a moment right to be saved that is -[3162.18 --> 3172.26] to be a christian you have to be able to say jesus is lord right doing good isn't enough loving your -[3172.26 --> 3178.90] neighbor isn't enough affirming and appreciating the tenants of a j judeo-christian culture or society -[3178.90 --> 3187.70] isn't enough you have to say to believe in your heart that jesus is lord now to be clear right that -[3187.70 --> 3195.86] doing good will proceed from a profession of jesus is lord appreciating and celebrating the tenants of -[3195.86 --> 3202.02] a society or a culture that's structured around christian principles might proceed from a profession -[3202.02 --> 3210.90] that jesus is lord but any one of those things cannot replace the profession that jesus is lord -[3210.90 --> 3219.38] now the word lord that's used here in greek these letters are written originally in greek is kurios -[3220.50 --> 3226.42] it's the same word that the septuagint which is the greek translation of the hebrew bible -[3227.46 --> 3233.14] what we call the old testament it's the same word that the greek translation of the hebrew bible uses to -[3233.14 --> 3240.10] translate the word yahweh if you have a bible in front of you when you read the old testament and it says -[3240.10 --> 3248.82] lord in all caps that's yahweh right the hebrew personal name for god and into greek that's -[3248.82 --> 3256.66] translated lord now the title lord is being applied to jesus and so what paul is saying is to profess jesus -[3256.66 --> 3266.02] is lord is to say that jesus is god to say jesus is god is to say that he is king what's another word for -[3266.02 --> 3277.22] king lord over our life right to be a christian is to profess jesus is lord and then the second point -[3277.22 --> 3284.10] that paul makes right to be a christian to genuinely be converted in your hearts you must believe that god -[3284.10 --> 3292.90] raised jesus from the dead believing in a real literal resurrection is necessary to be christian and -[3292.90 --> 3299.78] paul says this elsewhere he says in first corinthians 15 i'll paraphrase it but you will see the big text -[3299.78 --> 3307.70] over behind me paul says effectively if christ has not been raised our faith is useless our preaching is -[3307.70 --> 3317.94] pointless and our faith is futile we are still in our sin now these two things together professing jesus -[3317.94 --> 3322.74] lord right and believing that god raised him from the dead these two things together -[3324.50 --> 3332.90] are what it means to call on the name of the lord right in the simplest of terms a christian is someone -[3332.90 --> 3341.30] who trusts god more than you trust yourself and so that means you can say god is god jesus is god and i am -[3341.30 --> 3350.02] not that means you can say jesus did everything he paid it all and i trust in him because i can't do it -[3352.26 --> 3358.90] now remember that right right hold on to that those those three things there right the content of the -[3358.90 --> 3366.02] gospel or of the good news of the message that we proclaim is jesus is lord and god raised him from the dead -[3366.02 --> 3372.66] that a christian is someone who trusts god more than they trust themselves and three that god is god -[3372.66 --> 3380.50] jesus is god and i am not jesus did it all because i can't right hold on to those three i'll repeat them -[3380.50 --> 3385.62] one more time jesus is lord god raised him from the dead a christian is someone who trusts god more than -[3385.62 --> 3394.66] they trust themselves god is god jesus is god and i am not because he did it all park that in your brain -[3394.66 --> 3405.14] space because we're going to pick that up near the end so believing this truth this those three things -[3405.14 --> 3414.50] believing that in your heart is what makes us christian now i'm anticipating your questions -[3415.46 --> 3423.86] because of course there's going to be doubts right there's going to be seasons of unbelief or skepticism -[3423.86 --> 3428.26] there's going to be times of questioning and of wondering right there's going to be times where -[3428.26 --> 3434.66] it feels impossible to believe that that is true there's going to be times in your life where we -[3434.66 --> 3444.02] struggle to connect that belief or that profession with how we live in our lives now all of that remains -[3444.02 --> 3450.50] true right even as all of that remains true in our hearts in our minds and in our struggles right we we -[3450.50 --> 3458.02] still believe are called to believe right when we talk about this as as one of the works of the holy -[3458.02 --> 3465.22] spirit in our lives right to provide this assurance a deep-rooted assurance in our hearts even in the -[3465.22 --> 3473.70] face of doubt and yes i know this is true not only because i live it but because i have the privilege of -[3473.70 --> 3479.22] walking with so many of you in the midst of it sometimes doubt is stronger than faith -[3482.42 --> 3487.54] but can i say that doubt is never stronger than grace -[3490.26 --> 3497.22] right that's why we cling to the truth that he will hold me fast that's why we cling to the truth -[3497.22 --> 3503.22] that like when paul says to timothy that when we are faithless he remains faithful for he cannot -[3503.22 --> 3510.98] disown himself doubt may be stronger than faith but it's never stronger than grace -[3512.74 --> 3520.82] and for most of us faith without doubts right faith that doesn't experience these kinds of questions -[3520.82 --> 3523.54] is actually a faith that has grown stagnant -[3525.62 --> 3531.94] now for some of us that's not true that we have become such in the lord that we are so confident that -[3531.94 --> 3538.66] we never experienced those doubts and i praise god if that is your testimony in my experience it is only -[3538.66 --> 3543.46] the most saintly senior women who get to that point in their lives of faith -[3545.38 --> 3549.30] for most everyone else we struggle we have doubts -[3551.78 --> 3552.26] and so -[3552.26 --> 3559.70] don't fear doubts in your life of faith instead worship through them -[3561.14 --> 3569.06] and even with our doubts a christian professes the truth that jesus is lord and that god raised him from -[3569.06 --> 3576.90] the dead i believe help my unbelief right believing this truth about jesus is what in our hearts is what makes -[3576.90 --> 3584.42] us christian now this is connected to the idea that we looked at last week and that's online if you want to -[3584.42 --> 3592.74] find it that regeneration precedes faith i'm not going to get back into all of that but what paul then based on that -[3592.74 --> 3601.38] shifts to with a nice bit of rhetorical flourish both in his anticipation of a question but also in -[3601.38 --> 3608.82] identifying how this sovereign decree of god works itself out functionally or practically in history -[3608.82 --> 3613.78] in the lives of the individual believers and communities to whom he speaks paul then says -[3615.06 --> 3625.14] how then can they call on one they have not believed in that is to say in space time in front of us here and now -[3625.14 --> 3630.50] where does this believing come from how does this belief come about -[3631.86 --> 3639.54] and so the next question pushing right through he says how can they believe in one of whom they have not heard -[3642.50 --> 3649.78] to believe to profess to be a christian you must hear -[3649.78 --> 3657.54] right the way that god has set up his order of salvation requires that we hear and it's not just -[3657.54 --> 3663.46] any type of hearing right it's it's not like you can just stand outside on the street corner and read -[3663.46 --> 3669.86] the bible and whoever happens to hear it will all of a sudden come to this kind of believing -[3670.50 --> 3676.42] right the bible is not a book of magic or of spells in that regard the kind of believing and hearing that -[3676.42 --> 3682.42] that we're talking about is is penetrating to understanding it needs to really be heard it -[3682.42 --> 3687.62] needs to really be understood or let me rephrase that it needs to be understood as real -[3690.02 --> 3697.70] right jesus really did rise from the dead jesus really is lord god really is more trustworthy than anything -[3697.70 --> 3705.38] or anyone else jesus really is god and i am not he really did it all because i can't -[3706.42 --> 3716.50] understand now again you might hear that and you might think okay well like what's the threshold -[3717.46 --> 3722.50] what's the what's the set point limit right what's the bar that i need to hit for this -[3722.90 --> 3730.34] understanding before that i can really say that i'm a christian now the the simple answer to that is -[3730.34 --> 3735.38] can you say jesus is lord and do you believe that god raised him from the dead right if you can say yes to -[3735.38 --> 3741.86] that then that that's the set point limit that's the threshold you are a christian but i also want to -[3741.86 --> 3749.62] say and we also need to hear that with your age or your ability whatever that may be and whatever that is -[3749.62 --> 3758.98] otherwise impacted by right your maturity your ability to make this profession needs to grow -[3758.98 --> 3774.98] in the bible faith is often talked about like a seed right and seeds are planted and watered and cultivated -[3774.98 --> 3779.86] and they grow right in order for seeds to fulfill their purpose they must grow -[3779.86 --> 3794.18] and and one of the ways that you can tell that your faith is real is by how you can see it growing -[3795.46 --> 3801.38] right are you producing the fruit of the spirit in your life are you experiencing more and more comfort in -[3801.38 --> 3815.06] the the grace of god's goodness are you digging into who god is the christian tradition for thousands of -[3815.06 --> 3824.42] years has been marked by the idea of faith seeking understanding this is actually the title of a work by an -[3824.42 --> 3832.90] 11th century christian named anselm which is about exploring the deep things of god and the world through -[3832.90 --> 3844.42] the exercise of the mind through faith right faith wrestles for understanding there's nothing blind about christian faith -[3844.42 --> 3856.10] how can they hear paul says without someone preaching to them and so this is what we see right the message must be heard and the -[3856.10 --> 3866.18] message must be communicated it must be preached now the word that's used for preaching here and without someone preaching to -[3866.18 --> 3874.18] them literally means to be a herald and a herald is a person who makes an announcement -[3874.42 --> 3880.18] in the ancient world a herald would stand on the street corners or in the marketplace and they would -[3880.18 --> 3886.82] share the news that they've heard now don't hear what i'm not saying i'm not saying y'all need to become -[3886.82 --> 3894.26] street preachers but whatever street you're on it's your responsibility to herald hear what i mean -[3894.26 --> 3902.18] right preaching doesn't only mean sermons like this or in this context right you herald in the marketplace -[3902.18 --> 3908.34] whatever that is for you you herald at work you herald in your neighborhood you herald on campus you -[3908.34 --> 3920.10] herald at school that your whole life heralds the person and work of jesus announces holds out for all to see -[3921.54 --> 3929.30] and like we said right i said at the beginning this text may indicate some of my job security but this also -[3929.30 --> 3936.10] just isn't my job right this isn't also just the job of missionaries whether we send them locally -[3936.10 --> 3941.70] or globally this isn't just the job of chaplains in universities or in the military this isn't just -[3941.70 --> 3948.90] the responsibility of tim and charity in shoe swap or of jody and uriel in rosarito right everyone here -[3949.78 --> 3957.38] who believes is a herald now of course it's true that the way we do that and the context where we do that -[3957.38 --> 3964.26] even the how perhaps of doing that looks different right and of course the reality is that our -[3964.26 --> 3972.50] gathering here on sundays is critical for your heralding out there right precisely because we -[3972.50 --> 3979.78] believe that this message is eternal life or eternal death precisely because we believe that this word -[3979.78 --> 3987.78] opens and closes the kingdom of heaven we believe it is important to tell people everywhere to hear -[3988.74 --> 3998.02] and so we support global missions and so we support local missions and hearing stories of god at work in -[3998.02 --> 4007.78] those places and through those people is profound and it fuels our faith and our relationship to god right -[4007.78 --> 4011.30] right we want to see god at work in the community and in the world -[4013.38 --> 4014.02] but also -[4016.66 --> 4028.98] hearing that here encourages us out there the truth is that wherever you go you are sent as a herald by god -[4030.26 --> 4035.78] it doesn't matter if it's the soccer pitch on saturday or if it's starbucks for a shift on tuesday -[4035.78 --> 4041.62] if it's the office for the week or even on zoom or teams or google meet you are a herald -[4044.26 --> 4047.30] how can they preach unless they are sent -[4048.82 --> 4056.50] you are sent wherever you go you are sent that's why if you've been around for a couple weeks here -[4056.50 --> 4061.62] where we're working on this community art project which will hopefully take shape on the back wall over there -[4061.62 --> 4068.18] where where we gather grow and go here and we're asking for images of the spaces and the workplaces -[4068.18 --> 4075.30] in the third places of your life because that is where you are sent right this is where the mission of god is -[4075.30 --> 4081.46] being fulfilled in our midst wherever you are as one person i read this week said -[4081.46 --> 4090.02] god has sent us with the message of salvation he may send us overseas into the pulpit or across the street -[4090.02 --> 4095.94] to our neighbor but ours are the beautiful feet bringing good news -[4095.94 --> 4103.54] now you hear that -[4105.78 --> 4107.62] some of you go i get it -[4113.06 --> 4114.18] some of you are ready for that -[4116.90 --> 4117.86] but this is going to get hard -[4117.86 --> 4121.14] because the truth is -[4122.82 --> 4123.30] some of us -[4125.46 --> 4126.90] and i will include myself in this -[4129.62 --> 4131.78] some of us have let our feet get pretty ugly -[4136.34 --> 4138.82] beautiful feet are the ones that are bringing good news -[4140.58 --> 4142.34] some of us have stopped bringing the good news -[4142.34 --> 4149.38] some of us have never brought the good news some of us though sent have gotten stuck or stopped by fear -[4149.38 --> 4156.58] or anxiety or worry about what other people might think and so the dust of our inactivity has settled -[4156.58 --> 4162.98] onto our feet the dirt has collected around our toes and our feet aren't beautiful because we aren't -[4162.98 --> 4164.74] bringing the good news -[4166.50 --> 4167.78] and so hear this challenge -[4167.78 --> 4171.70] it's time together -[4172.74 --> 4173.86] to wash our feet -[4174.90 --> 4177.38] to to make our feet beautiful -[4178.02 --> 4187.14] it's time to to knock off the dust and the dirt and to be sent again right we will never reach people for jesus if we are never reaching people -[4191.30 --> 4191.46] now -[4192.58 --> 4196.50] at this point and i get it i get it right this is where people usually say -[4196.50 --> 4199.14] but i don't know what to say -[4200.26 --> 4201.62] or what if i don't have an answer -[4202.34 --> 4211.22] what if i get embarrassed or what if i misrepresent god what if i don't do a good enough job what if what i actually say ends up moving people further away from god -[4213.70 --> 4214.26] first of all -[4216.58 --> 4217.62] and i just -[4217.62 --> 4221.94] encourage you and and remind you that you do know what to say -[4221.94 --> 4223.94] i -[4224.34 --> 4225.62] remember let's unpack -[4226.34 --> 4227.22] jesus is lord -[4227.86 --> 4229.06] god raised him from the dead -[4230.10 --> 4233.14] a christian is someone who trusts god more than they trust themselves -[4234.34 --> 4239.78] and god is god jesus is god and i am not jesus did it -[4239.78 --> 4240.90] all because i -[4241.46 --> 4241.78] can't -[4242.74 --> 4245.38] that's it that's the content of of the message -[4245.38 --> 4249.22] and then let me add to that right god didn't send you -[4249.94 --> 4254.18] to wherever it is that he has sent you relying on your effectiveness -[4255.62 --> 4257.70] right god sent you relying on his -[4259.70 --> 4265.14] right you are sent with a message and it's god's power that will make that message effective -[4265.14 --> 4268.02] to salvation right it's his power not ours -[4268.02 --> 4271.22] now to be sure we want to be winsome -[4272.74 --> 4273.62] right to be sure -[4274.50 --> 4280.10] we don't want to be jerks about it and i've seen too many people try to talk about faith that end up just -[4280.10 --> 4281.06] sounding like a jerk -[4282.50 --> 4285.54] but again it's not our words that bring -[4286.26 --> 4286.90] salvation -[4287.62 --> 4288.82] it's god's word -[4292.10 --> 4292.82] i have seen -[4292.82 --> 4297.38] my almost 11 year old daughter -[4298.26 --> 4304.10] ministered the gospel to a more than 70 year old woman in the hospital as she called her to trust in god -[4304.66 --> 4306.82] and to name god as a god that we can trust -[4308.66 --> 4310.18] and i saw it through my own tears -[4312.10 --> 4313.06] and i have seen -[4313.78 --> 4320.34] pre-teen girls encourage each other with words of faith from jesus and the bible and challenging each other to rely on him -[4320.34 --> 4323.38] and if they can do it -[4324.90 --> 4325.54] so can we -[4326.74 --> 4327.78] we can all do this -[4329.78 --> 4336.74] the the the the most committed missionary for the gospel that i have ever met -[4339.78 --> 4346.66] was an 88 year old woman with rheumatoid arthritis who hadn't been able to move her hands for 30 years -[4346.66 --> 4350.82] but whose heart sang the glories of jesus every time you talked to her -[4353.78 --> 4354.58] we can do this -[4355.70 --> 4356.74] in fact we must -[4358.10 --> 4361.46] right we we've we've seen throughout all of romans -[4362.02 --> 4366.66] that that you don't contribute anything to your salvation except for the need -[4369.46 --> 4371.38] what we're beginning to see i hope -[4371.38 --> 4372.58] hope -[4372.58 --> 4376.34] is that you might contribute something to the salvation of another -[4376.34 --> 4384.34] your responsibility in the sovereign plan of god might be to be the one who preaches -[4384.98 --> 4390.90] the gospel who heralds the king jesus to them -[4390.90 --> 4397.78] god has made preaching the gospel necessary for salvation and so we preach that gospel as near -[4397.78 --> 4404.82] and as far and as wide as we possibly can hoping and trusting that god is faithful to his promise -[4404.82 --> 4411.94] that god's word is effective and true and it will accomplish the purpose for which he has sent it out -[4413.38 --> 4416.74] that's why we proclaim we need no other reason -[4416.74 --> 4421.06] now of course -[4422.74 --> 4426.42] the hard reality here is that -[4427.14 --> 4436.34] this message isn't always accepted the the beauty of this gospel isn't always seen as such -[4437.86 --> 4444.58] and paul knows this too right that's part of this entire lament that has pervaded through these three chapters -[4444.58 --> 4451.94] right paul recognizes that in verse 16 when he says that not all israel accepted the good news -[4452.58 --> 4457.38] and he also makes the point that it's not because they didn't hear it's not because they didn't -[4457.38 --> 4463.70] understand right for them paul leaves those excuses away he says it's not because of that verse 18 notice -[4464.26 --> 4465.30] we'll go through here quickly -[4465.30 --> 4471.86] uh their voice has gone out into all the earth their words to the end of the world this is a quote -[4471.86 --> 4479.70] from psalm 19 and i think what paul is doing here is applying it uh psalm 19 to the historical reality -[4479.70 --> 4487.30] that wherever there was a jewish diaspora community in the roman empire the gospel had been preached to -[4487.30 --> 4492.50] them because the missionaries who came their first stop almost always was in the synagogues -[4493.22 --> 4499.54] teaching the jews they had heard the good news they don't have that excuse and then he goes on quoting from -[4500.18 --> 4504.34] deuteronomy and isaiah paul makes the case that israel can't say -[4504.98 --> 4508.58] we didn't understand paul says they did notice the contrast he says -[4508.58 --> 4518.02] i will make you angry by a nation that has no understanding so if the gentiles have no understanding -[4518.74 --> 4525.70] the inference of the parallel is that the israelites have understanding or they should have had -[4525.70 --> 4533.62] understanding god revealed himself to those who did not ask the israelites knew to ask and then you get -[4533.62 --> 4542.66] this picture of god which is simultaneously terrifying and beautiful in its patience you have a picture -[4542.66 --> 4552.18] of god who stood before his people holding out his hands and they remained disobedient and obstinate paul's words -[4554.26 --> 4560.10] israel didn't respond to the word that was preached to them because they were disobedient and obstinate -[4560.10 --> 4562.98] that's a hard word -[4565.78 --> 4571.62] and the point here is to highlight that their rejection of the gospel is not because they didn't hear or -[4571.62 --> 4578.34] because they didn't understand it's because they remained disobedient and obstinate and so maybe we take -[4578.34 --> 4584.34] that hard word for us and we turn it into a challenge right because my prayer is that everybody who comes through -[4584.34 --> 4591.62] these doors that everybody who is in or adjacent to this community and so that is people who are in your -[4591.62 --> 4599.54] spheres of connection and influence that everybody in your life whoever you meet will not reject the gospel -[4599.54 --> 4606.74] because they didn't hear or understand because you have told them and you have helped them to see -[4606.74 --> 4618.02] right that's our job it's our job to help them understand and so let's let's land this plane together and so -[4619.70 --> 4628.58] the next time someone asks you what does it mean to be a christian you can say a christian is someone who -[4628.58 --> 4635.06] trusts god more than they trust themselves and then tell them a story of what that looks like in your life -[4635.06 --> 4638.42] about how you've lived that or seen that or how that's shown up -[4639.86 --> 4645.70] the next time you have a co-worker or someone in your life who is talking about a loved one who is -[4645.70 --> 4652.42] dying or on their deathbed or who has suddenly died say to them i believe that jesus is lord and -[4652.42 --> 4659.14] that god raised him from the dead and then tell them a story about how the hope of that moment changes your -[4659.14 --> 4667.86] experience of death and dying and offer that out to them the next time your friends say to you -[4669.46 --> 4679.06] i'm not worth it or nobody loves me i'm not good enough you can tell them that they are so loved by -[4679.06 --> 4689.14] god that he sent his one and only son to live and die for them that god himself thinks you are so worth it -[4689.14 --> 4698.10] that he gave himself up for you and then you can tell them a story of how that has changed your life -[4698.10 --> 4705.38] and about how you through doubt and struggle are trying to live in that reality -[4709.70 --> 4715.54] here it is one more time at the end not everyone who hears will believe -[4716.82 --> 4723.70] but everyone who believes must herald because everyone who believes will have heard -[4723.70 --> 4738.34] it breaks my heart when i talk to people who growing up in a christian church growing up in a christian -[4738.34 --> 4747.62] community at the age of 50 or 60 have said to me i don't think i ever heard the gospel -[4747.62 --> 4755.38] at the age of 40 who can say i think this is the first time my heart might might actually have been -[4755.38 --> 4765.54] converted to jesus christ now i am abundantly clear that's not because the gospel or that's not -[4765.54 --> 4771.06] necessarily because the gospel wasn't proclaimed in their lives or in their spaces it's just that they -[4771.06 --> 4774.58] didn't hear it or they didn't have the ears to hear at that point but -[4774.58 --> 4782.34] i also know that there are times and places where the gospel isn't being proclaimed by people who -[4782.34 --> 4792.98] profess to be saved by the gospel and please lord may that never be us may that never be here may that -[4792.98 --> 4797.38] never be in your homes or workplaces or third places -[4797.38 --> 4804.58] never be in your homes or third places everyone who believes will have heard my prayer is that you -[4804.58 --> 4808.34] will be the one to tell them let's pray together -[4817.46 --> 4820.10] holy god use us we pray -[4820.10 --> 4832.90] use us to proclaim the message of your salvation use us to boldly proclaim that you lord jesus -[4833.70 --> 4839.54] are king that you are god and that you have been raised from the dead -[4842.74 --> 4849.30] may we boldly proclaim this truth to a world and to a people that so desperately need to hear it -[4850.10 --> 4859.62] and then lord god use our proclaiming to grow your church use our proclaiming to reveal your kingdom -[4859.62 --> 4869.86] come and your kingdom coming wherever we go may we go as those with a message may we go as those with a -[4869.86 --> 4877.78] purpose in being sent may we go as those who are confident in you and you alone -[4877.78 --> 4885.54] we go because you have sent us and so we go in the power of your name -[4886.58 --> 4898.58] it's in your name lord jesus christ that we pray amen -[4898.58 --> 4912.66] now we know that sometimes words are hard to understand -[4914.34 --> 4924.50] and so god knowing that has given us a meal he has given us a picture to confirm for us the words -[4924.50 --> 4929.30] that jesus is -[4929.30 --> 4932.18] is lord and to show us -[4932.18 --> 4941.14] right in the the breaking of the bread and in the drinking of the cup that jesus christ has been raised -[4941.14 --> 4949.54] from the dead we come to this table as confirmation of this truth of the gospel we come to this table -[4949.54 --> 4957.38] because the word of god is alive and active among us we come to this table because god invites us to receive -[4957.86 --> 4958.82] him here -[4960.98 --> 4962.42] and so when words are hard -[4963.46 --> 4964.50] god gives you a meal -[4966.18 --> 4968.58] and this meal is eaten in community -[4968.58 --> 4976.34] together as we come to this table we will do so with a bit of a liturgy that is going to appear on the screen behind me -[4976.34 --> 4980.66] i invite you to speak the words that are indicated for you to speak -[4982.18 --> 4984.98] at the table of the lord lift up your hearts -[4984.98 --> 4990.34] let us give thanks to the lord our god -[4994.26 --> 4995.14] let's pray together -[4997.46 --> 5004.42] with joy we praise you gracious god for you have created heaven and earth you have made us -[5004.42 --> 5008.34] in your image you have kept covenant with us even when we fell into sin -[5008.34 --> 5017.22] we give you thanks for jesus christ who by his life death and resurrection open to us the way of life -[5017.78 --> 5018.58] everlasting -[5019.38 --> 5019.86] amen -[5022.34 --> 5030.34] our lord jesus before he suffered gave us this memorial of his sacrifice until he comes again -[5030.82 --> 5037.78] the lord jesus on the night that he was betrayed took bread and when he had given thanks he broke it and -[5037.78 --> 5044.42] said this is my body which is for you do this in remembrance of me -[5045.46 --> 5048.42] in the same way after supper he took the cup -[5049.30 --> 5053.06] he said this cup is the new covenant in my blood -[5054.58 --> 5058.98] do this whenever you drink it in remembrance of me -[5060.50 --> 5067.14] for whenever you eat this bread whenever you drink this cup you proclaim the lord's death until he -[5067.14 --> 5073.62] comes again this is the mystery of our faith -[5073.62 --> 5083.38] your death oh christ we proclaim your resurrection we affirm with joy your coming we await with hope -[5084.10 --> 5086.50] glory be to you lord jesus -[5086.50 --> 5092.98] jesus is lord god has raised him from the dead -[5092.98 --> 5093.62] from the dead -[5094.18 --> 5101.30] church family the lord has prepared this table for all who can make that profession for all who love him and -[5101.30 --> 5108.58] trust in him for their salvation and so come to this table you who have much faith and you would like to have more -[5108.58 --> 5115.06] come to this table you who have been to this sacrament often and you who have not been for a long time -[5115.06 --> 5124.18] come to this table you who have tried to follow jesus and you who have failed come to this table because jesus is -[5124.18 --> 5125.06] raised -[5125.06 --> 5127.06] raised -[5127.06 --> 5127.14] come -[5127.14 --> 5131.70] if you are here in person or if you are joining online come -[5132.26 --> 5136.02] because it is christ who invites us to meet him here -[5136.74 --> 5139.94] the gifts of god for the people of god -[5142.42 --> 5144.34] as we come to this table -[5144.34 --> 5151.06] we will do so in groups and we will gather in a circle around and we will pass the elements one to the next -[5151.46 --> 5156.82] there will be some elders who will usher the rows and tell you when it's your turn to come up and then gather in a circle -[5157.22 --> 5163.78] myself and the elders here will help serve as you pass the tray of bread to the person beside you -[5163.78 --> 5171.14] we invite you to say the body of christ given for you as you pass the tray of juice to the person beside you -[5171.14 --> 5174.58] we invite you to say the blood of christ shed for you -[5175.86 --> 5181.30] we're going to begin the first table with the worship volunteers and the people who are going to be around -[5181.62 --> 5186.42] helping us facilitate that and then we will sing through the rest of the liturgy together -[5186.98 --> 5193.22] if you would like prayer while we are meeting there are people available who have prayer tags on they would love to meet with you -[5193.22 --> 5195.22] they'll be in the foyer in the back -[5195.22 --> 5200.26] they can meet you for prayer before you come to the table or in lieu of coming to the table whatever the case may be -[5200.26 --> 5206.42] we want to meet you there if you are unable to come up to the front please indicate that to the usher and -[5206.42 --> 5213.78] they will serve you in your seat as well passing the body and blood to you i'm going to invite those -[5213.78 --> 5219.78] worship volunteers to come forward at this time -[5219.78 --> 5237.54] the wrong side -[5245.30 --> 5246.58] body of christ given for you -[5250.50 --> 5251.78] body of christ given for you -[5260.18 --> 5261.30] body of christ given for you -[5263.22 --> 5269.22] body of christ given for you -[5279.78 --> 5283.06] thanks healing -[5289.54 --> 5290.42] eat -[5290.42 --> 5291.06] And remember, -[5305.94 --> 5307.40] the blood of Christ shed for you. -[5311.14 --> 5312.56] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[5320.42 --> 5324.84] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[5326.34 --> 5327.72] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[5336.94 --> 5337.76] Thanks to all of us. -[5350.42 --> 5360.26] Drink and believe. -[5360.26 --> 5360.38] Amen. -[5360.38 --> 5361.38] Amen. -[5361.38 --> 5362.38] Amen. -[5362.38 --> 5363.38] Amen. -[5363.38 --> 5367.38] Amen. -[5380.42 --> 5381.42] Amen. -[5410.42 --> 5411.56] Amen. -[5422.80 --> 5423.38] Amen. -[5424.10 --> 5434.48] I pass my line to Calvary, -[5434.48 --> 5442.66] Where Jesus fled and died for me -[5442.66 --> 5450.48] I see his wounds, his hands, his feet -[5451.12 --> 5458.48] My Savior on that cursed tree -[5458.48 --> 5470.18] His body fell and drenched in tears -[5470.18 --> 5477.78] They laid him down in Joseph's tomb -[5477.78 --> 5485.38] The entrance sealed by heavy stone -[5485.38 --> 5492.88] Messiah still and all alone -[5492.88 --> 5505.52] O praise the name of the Lord our God -[5505.52 --> 5512.38] O praise his name forevermore -[5512.38 --> 5519.88] For endless days we will sing your praise -[5519.88 --> 5525.88] O Lord, O Lord our God -[5525.88 --> 5537.38] Then on the third and break of dawn -[5537.38 --> 5545.38] The Son of Heaven rose again -[5545.38 --> 5552.88] O trampled earth, where is your strength -[5552.88 --> 5560.88] The angels roar for Christ the King -[5560.88 --> 5572.38] O praise the name of the Lord our God -[5572.38 --> 5580.38] O praise his name forevermore -[5580.38 --> 5587.88] For endless days we will sing your praise -[5587.88 --> 5593.88] O Lord, O Lord our God -[5593.88 --> 5595.38] O Lord our God -[5595.38 --> 5601.38] He shall return -[5601.38 --> 5605.38] In robes of white -[5605.38 --> 5608.38] The blazing sun -[5608.38 --> 5613.38] Shall pierce the night -[5613.38 --> 5616.88] And I will rise -[5616.88 --> 5617.88] And I will rise -[5617.88 --> 5620.88] Above the saints -[5620.88 --> 5624.88] My gaze transpaced -[5624.88 --> 5629.88] On Jesus' face -[5629.88 --> 5631.38] On Jesus' face -[5631.38 --> 5635.38] On Jesus' face -[5635.38 --> 5637.38] On Jesus' face -[5637.38 --> 5639.38] On Jesus' face -[5639.38 --> 5648.88] On Jesus' face -[5648.88 --> 5658.38] On Jesus' face -[5658.38 --> 5663.38] On Jesus' face -[5663.38 --> 5670.88] O praise the name of the Lord our God -[5670.88 --> 5672.38] O praise his name -[5672.38 --> 5676.38] O praise his name forevermore -[5676.38 --> 5682.38] For endless days we will sing your praise -[5682.38 --> 5684.88] O praise his name -[5684.88 --> 5696.88] O praise his name -[5696.88 --> 5701.38] O praise his name forevermore -[5701.38 --> 5704.88] For endless days we will sing your praise -[5704.88 --> 5708.88] O praise his name forevermore -[5708.88 --> 5709.88] If commissions of the doubt -[5709.88 --> 5710.88] Lord our God -[5710.88 --> 5712.38] And of course our praise -[5712.38 --> 5712.88] O praise his name forever -[5712.88 --> 5713.88] Jesus' face -[5713.88 --> 5714.88] O praise his name before -[5714.88 --> 5716.88] 關ays We will sing your praise -[5716.88 --> 5718.78] O Lord -[5718.88 --> 5719.88] O Lord our God -[5719.88 --> 5722.88] O Lord -[5722.88 --> 5723.88] O Lord our God -[5723.88 --> 5726.88] O Lord -[5726.88 --> 5728.88] O Lord our God -[5729.88 --> 5731.88] O Lord -[5731.88 --> 5733.88] O Lord our God -[5733.88 --> 5734.88] O Lord our God -[5738.88 --> 5739.88] Amen. -[5768.88 --> 5769.88] Amen. -[5798.88 --> 5799.88] Amen. -[5828.88 --> 5829.88] Amen. -[5858.88 --> 5859.88] Amen. -[5888.88 --> 5889.88] Amen. -[5918.88 --> 5919.88] Amen. -[5919.88 --> 5920.88] Amen. -[5920.88 --> 5921.88] Amen. -[5921.88 --> 5922.88] Amen. -[5922.88 --> 5933.36] We lift it high, forever he is risen, he is alive. -[5933.36 --> 5933.82] He is alive. -[5933.82 --> 5943.96] The ground began to shake, the stone was rolled away. -[5943.96 --> 5949.30] His perfect love could not be overcome -[5949.30 --> 5953.02] No death there is your sting -[5953.02 --> 5956.38] Our resurrected King -[5956.38 --> 5960.26] Has surrendered you to the beat -[5960.26 --> 5967.96] Forever He is glorified -[5967.96 --> 5974.88] Forever He is lifted high -[5974.88 --> 5980.38] Forever He is risen -[5980.38 --> 5983.26] He is alive -[5983.26 --> 5986.38] He is alive -[5986.38 --> 5994.70] Forever He is glorified -[5994.70 --> 6001.62] Forever He is lifted high -[6001.62 --> 6007.00] Forever He is risen -[6007.00 --> 6009.62] He is alive -[6009.62 --> 6013.62] He is alive -[6013.62 --> 6019.62] We sing hallelujah -[6019.62 --> 6022.82] We sing hallelujah -[6022.82 --> 6026.54] We sing hallelujah -[6026.54 --> 6029.38] The love has overcome -[6029.38 --> 6033.32] We sing hallelujah -[6033.32 --> 6036.66] We sing hallelujah -[6036.66 --> 6040.08] We sing hallelujah -[6040.08 --> 6042.82] Love is overcome -[6042.82 --> 6046.80] We sing hallelujah -[6046.80 --> 6049.98] We sing hallelujah -[6049.98 --> 6053.40] We sing hallelujah -[6053.40 --> 6056.64] Love is overcome -[6056.64 --> 6059.82] We sing hallelujah -[6059.82 --> 6063.06] We sing hallelujah -[6063.06 --> 6066.54] We sing hallelujah -[6070.08 --> 6100.06] Thank you. -[6100.08 --> 6130.06] Thank you. -[6130.08 --> 6132.08] Thank you. -[6160.08 --> 6162.08] Thank you. -[6162.08 --> 6163.08] Thank you. -[6163.08 --> 6165.08] Thank you. -[6165.08 --> 6167.08] Thank you. -[6167.08 --> 6169.08] Thank you. -[6169.08 --> 6171.08] Thank you. -[6171.08 --> 6173.08] Thank you. -[6173.08 --> 6175.08] Thank you. -[6175.08 --> 6177.08] Thank you. -[6177.08 --> 6179.08] Thank you. -[6179.08 --> 6183.08] Thank you. -[6183.08 --> 6185.08] Thank you. -[6185.08 --> 6187.08] Thank you. -[6187.08 --> 6188.08] Thank you. -[6188.08 --> 6189.08] Thank you. -[6189.08 --> 6191.08] Thank you. -[6191.08 --> 6193.08] Thank you. -[6193.08 --> 6197.08] Thank you. -[6197.08 --> 6205.68] Pouring out the riches of your glorious grace -[6205.68 --> 6212.18] Your mercy and your kindness show no end -[6212.18 --> 6216.74] Your blood has washed away my sin -[6216.74 --> 6219.10] Jesus, thank you -[6219.10 --> 6223.16] The Father's wrath completely satisfied -[6223.16 --> 6225.74] Jesus, thank you -[6225.74 --> 6227.60] Once your enemy -[6227.60 --> 6231.32] Now seated at your table -[6231.32 --> 6237.32] Jesus, thank you -[6237.32 --> 6252.94] Mother of my soul -[6252.94 --> 6260.52] I want to live for you -[6260.52 --> 6265.52] Lover of my soul -[6265.52 --> 6272.52] I want to live for you -[6272.52 --> 6278.10] Lover of my soul -[6278.10 --> 6284.10] I want to live for you -[6284.10 --> 6292.10] Lover of my soul -[6292.10 --> 6297.68] I want to live for you -[6297.68 --> 6303.26] Your blood has washed away my sin -[6303.26 --> 6306.26] Jesus, thank you -[6306.26 --> 6306.84] Thank you -[6306.84 --> 6310.84] The Father's wrath completely satisfied -[6310.84 --> 6312.84] Jesus, thank you -[6312.84 --> 6317.84] Your blood has washed away my sin -[6317.84 --> 6319.84] Jesus, thank you -[6319.84 --> 6325.42] Jesus, thank you -[6325.42 --> 6326.42] Jesus, thank you -[6326.42 --> 6328.42] What's your enemy? -[6328.42 --> 6331.42] Now seated at your table -[6331.42 --> 6337.42] Jesus, thank you -[6337.42 --> 6345.00] Jesus, thank you -[6345.00 --> 6356.58] Jesus, thank you -[6356.58 --> 6358.64] Jesus, thank you -[6358.64 --> 6362.46] Jesus, thank you -[6362.46 --> 6364.58] Jesus, thank you -[6364.58 --> 6366.58] Amen. -[6394.58 --> 6412.58] You spoke the earth into motion, my soul now to stand. -[6412.58 --> 6427.58] You stood before my failure and carried the cross for my shame. -[6427.58 --> 6436.58] My sin weighed upon your shoulders, my soul now to stand. -[6436.58 --> 6446.58] So what can I say? -[6446.58 --> 6452.58] What can I do? -[6452.58 --> 6464.58] I offer this heart, oh God, completely to you. -[6466.58 --> 6478.58] So I'll walk upon salvation, your spirit alive in me. -[6478.58 --> 6490.58] My life to declare your promise, my soul now to stand. -[6490.58 --> 6496.58] So what can I say? -[6496.58 --> 6502.58] And what can I do? -[6502.58 --> 6514.58] I offer this heart, oh God, completely to you. -[6514.58 --> 6520.58] So what can I say? -[6520.58 --> 6526.58] And what can I do? -[6526.58 --> 6538.58] I offer this heart, oh God, completely to you. -[6538.58 --> 6560.58] So I'll stand with arms high and heart abandoned in awe of the one who gave it all. -[6560.58 --> 6572.58] And I'll stand with arms high and heart abandoned in awe of the one who gave it all. -[6572.58 --> 6584.58] And I'll stand with arms high and heart abandoned in awe of the one who gave it all. -[6584.58 --> 6596.58] And I'll stand with arms high and I'll stand with arms high and heart abandoned in awe of the one who gave it all. -[6596.58 --> 6608.58] And I'll stand with arms high and I'll stand with arms high and heart abandoned in awe of the one who gave it all. -[6608.58 --> 6610.58] And I'll stand with arms high and heart abandoned in awe of the one who gave it all to you. -[6610.58 --> 6614.58] And to me is so one I emerged that night may have lived all the others who gave it all and stressed in awe for home. -[6614.58 --> 6618.58] I'm your Mengenna and was moans high and meant, I was all I trying to eat fortified. -[6618.58 --> 6620.58] All I have is you all. -[6620.58 --> 6626.58] All I have is you all. -[6626.58 --> 6641.80] If you find yourself this morning -[6641.80 --> 6644.84] having your heart converted by the gospel of God, -[6645.16 --> 6647.12] we want to talk, we want to get together. -[6647.12 --> 6650.36] And so please meet me at the back at the Connect booth. -[6650.50 --> 6654.56] I'd love to hear the story of God at work in your life. -[6655.02 --> 6657.22] If you'd like to find me and talk about anything else, -[6657.48 --> 6659.86] I'll still be there and you can do the same. -[6660.72 --> 6662.56] As you go into this week, -[6662.74 --> 6665.42] go as those who are sent by God -[6665.42 --> 6670.42] and as those with whom God promises to go. -[6670.86 --> 6673.00] And so receive his blessing. -[6674.48 --> 6677.58] God go before you to lead you. -[6677.96 --> 6680.12] God go behind you to protect you. -[6680.44 --> 6682.22] God go beneath you to support you. -[6682.22 --> 6685.00] And God go beside you to befriend you. -[6685.50 --> 6686.96] Do not be afraid. -[6687.58 --> 6689.46] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[6689.58 --> 6691.10] Do not be afraid, -[6691.48 --> 6696.06] but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[6697.00 --> 6697.64] Amen. -[6712.22 --> 6721.36] You're the Lion of Judah, the Lamb who was slain. -[6721.54 --> 6725.42] You ascended to heaven and evermore will reign. -[6725.72 --> 6729.58] At the end of the age where the earth you reclaim, -[6729.96 --> 6733.36] they will gather the nations before you. -[6733.98 --> 6740.22] And the eyes of all men will be fixed on the Lamb who was crucified. -[6740.22 --> 6750.04] With wisdom and mercy and justice you'll reign at your Father's side. -[6750.04 --> 6752.50] And the angels will cry, -[6752.50 --> 6760.50] Hail the Lamb who was slain for the world, -[6761.04 --> 6764.04] rule is found. -[6766.04 --> 6768.28] And the earth will reply, -[6768.28 --> 6772.28] You shall reign. -[6772.28 --> 6772.98] You shall reign. -[6772.98 --> 6773.52] You shall reign. -[6773.52 --> 6774.10] You shall reign. -[6774.10 --> 6779.14] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords. -[6779.14 --> 6790.76] There's a shield in our hand and a sword at our side. -[6791.02 --> 6794.72] There's a fire in our spirits that cannot be denied. -[6795.14 --> 6799.10] There's a Father that has sold us for these you have died. -[6799.30 --> 6802.66] For the nations who gather before you. -[6802.66 --> 6809.70] And the ears of all men need to hear of the Lamb who was crucified. -[6811.10 --> 6818.74] Who descended to hell yet was raised up to reign at his Father's side. -[6819.08 --> 6821.18] And the angels will cry, -[6821.66 --> 6824.66] Hail the Lamb -[6824.66 --> 6828.78] Who was slain for the world, -[6828.78 --> 6828.90] who was slain for the world, -[6829.30 --> 6832.20] roll it in power. -[6834.04 --> 6836.44] And the earth will reply, -[6836.98 --> 6840.02] You shall reign. -[6842.10 --> 6846.54] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords. -[6846.74 --> 6848.56] And the angels will cry, -[6849.04 --> 6851.86] Hail the Lamb. -[6851.86 --> 6856.50] who was slain for the world -[6856.50 --> 6859.86] roll in his heart -[6859.86 --> 6864.44] and the earth will reply -[6864.44 --> 6868.10] you shall reign -[6868.10 --> 6872.50] as the king of all kings -[6872.50 --> 6874.86] and the lord of all lords -[6874.86 --> 6876.60] as the king of all kings -[6876.60 --> 6879.86] and the lord of all lords -[6881.86 --> 6883.86] so -[6888.86 --> 6890.86] it was full -[6890.86 --> 6895.20] and the lord of all kings -[6895.20 --> 6896.86] of all kings -[6896.86 --> 6897.74] of the men -[6897.74 --> 6899.06] of all kings -[6899.06 --> 6900.94] of all kings -[6900.94 --> 6903.06] of all kings -[6903.06 --> 6904.96] of king had been -[6904.96 --> 6906.86] now -[6906.86 --> 6908.86] but -[6908.86 --> 6938.84] Thank you. -[6938.86 --> 6968.84] Thank you. diff --git "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 19, 2023_summary.txt" "b/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 19, 2023_summary.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 4559a288c740ba399c012a95da829f9648fc4815..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 19, 2023_summary.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,118 +0,0 @@ -• Praise to God -• Trust and reliance on God -• The glory of God covering the earth -• Gratitude and thanksgiving -• The importance of God's word and testimony -• The heavens declaring and proclaiming Jesus' worthiness of praise -• Welcome and worship in a shared community -• Excitement about upcoming events -• Announcements for youth ministry -• Request for host homes for youth coffee gatherings -• Call for volunteers to host December's youth coffee gathering -• Thank you message for those who attended a recent prayer meeting -• Reflection on the spirit being alive and moving in their midst -• GEMS ministry received support for their mason jars with baking recipes -• Returned jars from last year's purchase are needed by Friday -• Baptism of Georgia Verhoef will be witnessed during the service -• Call to worship is a selection of verses from Psalm 139, highlighting God's intimate knowledge and presence in our lives -• Psalm 139 is referenced as a reminder of God's intimate knowledge of each individual -• Confession of sin and shortcomings in prayer, including acting unChrist-like and dishonoring God -• Request for mercy and purification of hearts to live according to God's ways -• Gratitude for the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross and request for guidance and leadership -• Closing with a mention of prayer in Jesus' name -• Worship service where a family, the Verhoove family, is welcomed into the church -• Repetition of phrases "Lord, you have my heart" and "And I will search for yours" -• Prayer and worship songs with themes of surrender, sacrifice, and praise -• Welcome and affirmation of faith from the pastor to the new members -• Recognition of a church family and its authority -• Significance of baptism in the Reformed tradition -• God's covenant with Abraham and its implications for his children -• Baptism as a sign of adoption into God's people and new identity in Christ Jesus -• Administration of baptism to Georgia, including a prayer for her future faithfulness -• Promise from Warren and Mel to instruct their children in the Christian faith and lead them by example -• Baptism ceremony for Georgia, including naming and prayers -• Explanation of baptism as a symbol of death and resurrection -• Congregation's promise to love, support, and teach the gospel to Warren, Mel, and their children -• Congregation welcomes Georgia into the family of Jesus and commits to helping her on her journey of faith -• Communion and gift-giving ceremony -• Introduction of Eric Hubert as the new district elder -• Invitation for family members and church elders to welcome Warren and Mel's family -• Prayer led by Kevin for the Verhoeven family -• Baptism of Georgia Verhoeven -• Praise and thanksgiving for the Verhoeven family joining the congregation -• Invocation of God's promises and presence in their lives -• Closing prayer and benediction -• Bible translation and literacy efforts by Wycliffe Bible Translators -• Funding appeal for Wycliffe Canada's projects in Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and North America -• Presentation by Hank about his trip to various waterfalls around the world (Bridal Falls, Niagara Falls, Yosemite Falls, Skagafoss Falls, Victoria Falls, Angel Falls) -• Kids' Corner discussion and activities -• Sunday school discussion about the fall of man and God's work through brokenness -• Upcoming events: - + Annual AGM and ministry/mission budget discussion next week - + Tri-Soup Tournament on October 31st -• Financial update: church is 24% behind on year-to-date giving -• Prayer requests for Sai Visser, Judy Prestig, Teenie Vriend, Rob Alkama's niece Lindsay, and others in need of prayer and support -• Church family prayer for healing, peace, guidance, and comfort for those grieving or struggling with health concerns -• The speaker prays for guidance and understanding from God -• They discuss reading through the book of Romans, specifically chapters 9-11 -• The passage being read is Romans 11:1-10, which deals with the sovereignty of God and Israel's rejection of the gospel -• Paul asks if God rejected his people and answers that by no means, citing examples from scripture to show that there are still remnants chosen by grace -• God chooses who he will save through faith in the gospel -• Israel's unbelief doesn't mean God has rejected them -• There is a remnant who believe and the elect will show themselves eventually -• Israel's stumbling was for the purpose of grafting in Gentiles -• Ultimately, all of Israel may be saved by grace through faith -• Israel's unbelief isn't total -• A remnant of Israel currently believes -• Paul is a living example that God hasn't rejected His people -• The story of Elijah shows God's preservation of His people despite their idolatry and rejection of Him -• The presence of the gospel being preached to the Gentiles indicates that God has not entirely rejected Israel -• Discussion of idolatry and syncretism among the Israelites -• Story of Elijah challenging Ahab's prophets of Baal and Asherah on a mountaintop -• Paul's use of this story to illustrate that there is a remnant of people who believe in God despite the majority rejecting Him -• Comparison between the rejection of God by the majority of Israel and the current state of Christianity in society, noting that while it may appear to be declining demographically, a cultural Christianity is still prevalent -• The presence of God's work in the world is evident despite appearances to the contrary -• Examples include the conversion of a Hindu priest to Christianity and Ayan Hirsi Ali's change from being anti-religion to becoming a Christian -• These examples illustrate that God keeps a remnant, often found in unexpected places -• This theme is reflected in the Reformed tradition, specifically through the Belgic Confession -• The confession highlights what it means to be Reformed and includes an article on the Holy Catholic Church that explains this concept -• The church has existed since the beginning of time and will last until the end -• Christ is eternal King who cannot exist without subjects -• The holy church is preserved by God against the rage of the world -• Despite appearances, there is always a remnant of true believers -• Israel's unbelief is not total because grace is still active and faith is a gift of grace -• Rejection of God can be overcome by grace -• Regeneration is necessary for faith and responding to grace -• Baptism is a symbol of the action of God in overcoming rejection through his grace -• Infant baptism is seen as an image of this promise because infants cannot choose God on their own -• Grace is necessary for spiritual life, and none of us can come to God apart from it -• Israel's rejection of God is not necessarily equal to or connected to God's rejection of Israel -• God's grace is more than human efforts and passion, it's what ultimately saves -• The elect among the people of Israel will always reveal themselves, even if it takes a lifetime -• Paul argues that God has sovereign choice over who is saved and foreknew all who would be saved. -• God's plan and purpose can be mysterious and not always understood immediately -• Foreknowledge by God means that people cannot fail to believe -• Faith is often a long-term process, not immediate -• Grace is still present even when faith seems absent -• Israel's relationship with God serves as an analogy for human relationships with God -• Rejection and hope -• The chosen of God will reveal themselves, but it may take a lifetime -• Praying for the truth to be revealed -• Elevated expectation vs reality of grace conversion -• God's greater power over human rejection or lack of faith -• The hope of God in spite of current circumstances -• Doubts being overwhelmed by God's truth -• Praying for sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, friends, and family to hear and receive the truth of God -• Challenging rejection of the gospel in daily life and the lives of loved ones -• Trusting that God is faithful and gracious -• Assurance of God's presence -• Overcoming rejection and disobedience through God's grace -• Resting in God's promises -• The purpose of the Church's calling -• Letting one's light shine for God's glory -• Being the people God intends, holy and elect -• Receiving God's blessing and protection on life's journey -• Affirmation of devotion to Christ -• Declaration of not being one's own, but belonging to Christ -• Request for Christ to lead life and in death -• Reiteration of gratitude and thanks \ No newline at end of file diff --git "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 19, 2023_transcript.txt" "b/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 19, 2023_transcript.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index d1e00f1841e470a3640c7e2f662f7424904e51db..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 19, 2023_transcript.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2409 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.34] Come let your glory cover the earth -[6.34 --> 12.80] You have saved me from the wrong reliance -[12.80 --> 15.68] Awake my soul to love you -[15.68 --> 18.88] Awake my soul to save you -[18.88 --> 21.70] You are exalted -[21.70 --> 25.04] Oh God above the heavens -[25.04 --> 29.98] Come let your glory cover the earth -[30.00 --> 38.04] You have saved me from the wrong reliance -[38.04 --> 44.92] Awake my soul to love you -[44.92 --> 56.14] Awake my soul to save you -[56.14 --> 86.12] Thank you. -[86.14 --> 116.12] Thank you. -[116.14 --> 146.12] Thank you. -[146.14 --> 148.14] Thank you. -[176.14 --> 178.14] Thank you. -[206.14 --> 208.14] Thank you. -[236.14 --> 238.14] Thank you. -[266.14 --> 268.14] Thank you. -[296.14 --> 298.14] Thank you. -[298.14 --> 300.14] Thank you. -[300.14 --> 302.14] Thank you. -[302.14 --> 304.14] Thank you. -[304.14 --> 306.14] Thank you. -[306.14 --> 308.14] Thank you. -[308.14 --> 312.14] Thank you. -[312.14 --> 314.14] Thank you. -[314.14 --> 316.14] Thank you. -[316.14 --> 319.34] pour out my heart -[319.34 --> 322.98] pledge all my trust -[322.98 --> 324.50] oh for God -[324.50 --> 329.56] is a refuge for us -[346.14 --> 376.12] oh for God -[376.14 --> 380.06] locked inside the lies of unbelief -[380.06 --> 384.02] but then your word -[384.02 --> 385.36] it came to me -[385.36 --> 388.40] a light unto my eyes -[388.40 --> 390.50] your law is good -[390.50 --> 392.26] and true and pure -[392.26 --> 393.18] and right -[393.18 --> 396.32] more precious than gold -[396.32 --> 399.80] sweeter than honey -[399.80 --> 402.84] reviving my soul -[402.84 --> 405.18] your testimony -[405.18 --> 407.76] your glory -[407.76 --> 409.10] display -[409.10 --> 412.50] in all creation -[412.50 --> 415.06] your living word -[415.06 --> 419.00] my meditation -[419.00 --> 425.20] waiting for the coming of the king -[425.20 --> 431.70] the one of whom we heard the prophet speak -[431.70 --> 435.92] then your word -[435.92 --> 435.94] then your word -[435.94 --> 437.22] came to me -[437.22 --> 440.18] a light unto my eyes -[440.18 --> 442.40] the face of God -[442.40 --> 445.32] revered in Jesus Christ -[445.32 --> 448.12] more precious than gold -[448.12 --> 451.58] sweeter than honey -[451.58 --> 454.58] reviving my soul -[454.58 --> 456.16] your testimony -[456.16 --> 457.00] your testimony -[457.00 --> 459.54] your glory -[459.54 --> 460.96] displayed -[460.96 --> 464.38] in all creation -[464.38 --> 467.40] your living word -[467.40 --> 470.76] my meditation -[470.76 --> 476.14] the heaven -[476.14 --> 489.46] the heaven is declaring -[489.46 --> 493.14] the skies are proclaiming -[493.14 --> 496.06] that there's no denying -[496.06 --> 500.28] Jesus you are worthy of praise -[500.28 --> 502.46] the heavens declaring -[502.46 --> 506.66] the skies are proclaiming -[506.66 --> 509.02] that there's no denying -[509.02 --> 512.82] Jesus you are worthy of praise -[512.82 --> 515.48] the heavens declaring -[515.48 --> 519.34] the skies are proclaiming -[519.34 --> 521.94] that there's no denying -[521.94 --> 525.82] Jesus you are worthy of praise -[525.82 --> 528.48] the heavens declaring -[528.48 --> 530.48] the skies are proclaiming -[530.48 --> 531.48] the skies are proclaiming -[531.48 --> 532.48] the skies are proclaiming -[532.48 --> 534.48] that there's no denying -[534.48 --> 535.48] Jesus you are worthy of praise -[535.48 --> 536.48] the heavens -[536.48 --> 537.48] you are worthy of praise -[537.48 --> 538.02] the heavens -[538.02 --> 538.48] you are worthy of praise -[538.48 --> 539.48] the heavens -[539.48 --> 541.48] sweeter than honey -[541.48 --> 544.48] real life in my soul -[544.48 --> 547.48] your testimony -[547.48 --> 553.48] good morning -[554.00 --> 558.66] welcome into our shared worship -[558.66 --> 559.24] this morning -[559.24 --> 561.22] an extra special welcome -[561.22 --> 563.20] if you are a guest with us -[563.20 --> 564.94] we are very excited -[564.94 --> 566.02] that you are here -[566.02 --> 567.92] and we are really looking forward -[567.92 --> 570.18] to our shared worship -[570.18 --> 571.34] together this morning -[571.34 --> 572.82] my name is Chris -[572.82 --> 574.52] I'm one of the pastors here -[574.52 --> 575.64] and it's my privilege -[575.64 --> 577.00] to lead us -[577.00 --> 577.84] in our worship -[577.84 --> 580.08] along with this gigantic team -[580.08 --> 580.78] behind me -[580.78 --> 583.72] as we sing songs of praise -[583.72 --> 584.36] to our God -[584.36 --> 586.04] and are welcomed -[586.04 --> 587.46] into this place -[587.46 --> 589.20] you may have seen -[589.20 --> 590.12] if you got one of the -[590.12 --> 591.44] worship papers -[591.44 --> 592.16] on the way in -[592.16 --> 592.86] that this morning -[592.86 --> 594.64] we are welcoming -[594.64 --> 595.52] some new members -[595.52 --> 596.68] and participating -[596.68 --> 597.92] and witnessing in -[597.92 --> 599.56] a baptism of Georgia -[599.56 --> 600.86] and so we are very excited -[600.86 --> 601.34] for that -[601.34 --> 602.42] and we look forward -[602.42 --> 603.54] to that in our worship -[603.54 --> 603.92] together -[603.92 --> 605.62] if you are visiting -[605.62 --> 607.22] because of that -[607.22 --> 608.90] thank you for being with us -[608.90 --> 610.54] and for supporting -[610.54 --> 612.00] Warren and Mel -[612.00 --> 613.50] in this journey -[613.50 --> 614.06] of faith -[614.06 --> 614.60] together -[614.60 --> 616.44] before we begin -[616.44 --> 617.02] there are a couple -[617.02 --> 617.46] announcements -[617.46 --> 618.18] and so I'm going to get -[618.18 --> 619.40] Kevin to make his way -[619.40 --> 620.06] up to the front -[620.06 --> 621.08] and he's going to do -[621.08 --> 621.58] an announcement -[621.58 --> 623.10] on behalf of -[623.10 --> 623.92] the youth ministry -[623.92 --> 626.40] good morning -[626.40 --> 627.22] everyone -[627.22 --> 628.96] a couple of announcements -[628.96 --> 629.78] for youth -[629.78 --> 630.30] youth tonight -[630.30 --> 631.10] we've got 2020 -[631.10 --> 632.24] here at the church -[632.24 --> 633.34] it starts at 630 -[633.34 --> 634.06] so I look forward -[634.06 --> 634.64] to seeing you -[634.64 --> 635.46] out to that -[635.46 --> 636.58] congregation -[636.58 --> 637.82] once a month -[637.82 --> 638.68] our youth ministry -[638.68 --> 639.14] does something -[639.14 --> 640.08] called youth coffee -[640.08 --> 642.20] where after the morning service -[642.20 --> 643.18] the youth ministry -[643.18 --> 644.64] comes over to someone's house -[644.64 --> 645.56] and we have lunch -[645.56 --> 646.32] and we hang out -[646.32 --> 647.28] the youth leaders -[647.28 --> 648.50] are more than happy -[648.50 --> 649.06] to help -[649.06 --> 650.18] with the food -[650.18 --> 650.92] and stuff like that -[650.92 --> 651.72] but we're always looking -[651.72 --> 653.00] for a space to come -[653.00 --> 655.02] I have volunteers -[655.02 --> 656.12] there's a sign up -[656.12 --> 656.84] in the bulletin -[656.84 --> 657.62] that comes out -[657.62 --> 658.50] I have volunteers -[658.50 --> 660.58] for January -[660.58 --> 661.12] February -[661.12 --> 661.50] March -[661.50 --> 661.96] and April -[661.96 --> 663.16] but I'm still looking -[663.16 --> 664.32] for one in December -[664.32 --> 665.32] so if that's something -[665.32 --> 666.34] that piques your interest -[666.34 --> 667.58] if you're thinking -[667.58 --> 668.18] oh I would love -[668.18 --> 669.02] to have the youth ministry -[669.02 --> 669.86] over to my house -[669.86 --> 671.76] please come chat with me -[671.76 --> 672.70] or you can go onto -[672.70 --> 673.32] that e-bulletin -[673.32 --> 674.14] and sign up there -[674.14 --> 675.34] and I'm also looking -[675.34 --> 675.78] for someone -[675.78 --> 676.42] a little bit later -[676.42 --> 676.84] in the year -[676.84 --> 677.34] in May -[677.34 --> 678.10] so if that's something -[678.10 --> 678.94] that you're interested in -[678.94 --> 680.26] please come chat with me -[680.26 --> 681.22] I'd love to talk more -[681.22 --> 681.60] about that -[681.60 --> 682.08] thanks -[682.08 --> 684.40] Kevin that's ordinarily -[684.40 --> 685.48] the first Sunday -[685.48 --> 686.04] of the month -[686.04 --> 686.30] right? -[686.74 --> 687.00] correct -[687.00 --> 687.70] excellent -[687.70 --> 688.72] so that's the first -[688.72 --> 689.40] Sunday in December -[689.40 --> 691.06] like not next one -[691.06 --> 691.98] but the following one -[691.98 --> 693.00] that's what I'm looking -[693.00 --> 693.50] for help with -[693.50 --> 694.46] there it is -[694.46 --> 695.24] December 3rd -[695.24 --> 695.74] thanks Nora -[695.74 --> 700.36] also just wanted to -[700.36 --> 702.08] share a thank you -[702.08 --> 703.54] to those of you -[703.54 --> 704.44] who came out -[704.44 --> 705.88] this past week -[705.88 --> 706.68] on Tuesday night -[706.68 --> 708.04] we had a prayer meeting -[708.04 --> 709.56] in the foyer there -[709.56 --> 710.92] and that was an excellent evening -[710.92 --> 712.64] and the spirit was alive -[712.64 --> 713.24] and moving -[713.24 --> 714.36] in our midst -[714.36 --> 715.20] and in our prayers -[715.20 --> 716.36] and so if you were there -[716.36 --> 717.32] thank you for that -[717.32 --> 719.52] if you weren't there -[719.52 --> 720.90] but joined us in prayer -[720.90 --> 721.86] from wherever you were -[721.86 --> 723.06] thank you for that -[723.06 --> 724.72] we are definitely -[724.72 --> 726.90] experiencing the spirit -[726.90 --> 727.34] at work -[727.34 --> 728.02] in our midst -[728.02 --> 728.82] and we're grateful -[728.82 --> 729.44] for that -[729.44 --> 730.86] in our time together -[730.86 --> 732.18] also -[732.18 --> 734.18] a big thank you -[734.18 --> 735.48] to you -[735.48 --> 736.44] as church family -[736.44 --> 737.36] and your friends -[737.36 --> 738.40] and extended family -[738.40 --> 739.42] and your co-workers -[739.42 --> 741.66] for the incredible support -[741.66 --> 743.12] that the GEMS ministry -[743.12 --> 745.48] which is a girls ministry here -[745.48 --> 747.54] received for their GEMS jars -[747.54 --> 749.84] so they make these -[749.84 --> 751.40] mason jars -[751.40 --> 753.12] with baking recipes in them -[753.12 --> 757.66] they sold 799 jars -[757.66 --> 759.22] yeah -[759.22 --> 762.42] that's incredible -[762.42 --> 764.52] and that's in no small part -[764.52 --> 765.36] thanks to you -[765.36 --> 766.70] supporting that ministry -[766.70 --> 767.70] now what that means -[767.70 --> 769.98] is that if you bought jars -[769.98 --> 770.80] last year -[770.80 --> 772.08] and then never returned them -[772.08 --> 773.58] please return them -[773.58 --> 775.82] by Friday -[775.82 --> 778.14] they need -[778.14 --> 780.60] some 400 more jars -[780.60 --> 781.50] than anticipated -[781.50 --> 783.00] so -[783.00 --> 784.58] if you can help them out -[784.58 --> 786.00] you can talk to either -[786.00 --> 787.08] Rachel or Nikki -[787.08 --> 789.00] and they would love -[789.00 --> 790.76] to receive your help -[790.76 --> 792.16] to help facilitate this -[792.16 --> 793.56] in their work together -[793.56 --> 795.88] I think that's it -[795.88 --> 798.00] can we stand together -[798.00 --> 799.72] and be welcomed by God -[799.72 --> 800.72] in his presence -[800.72 --> 805.28] God meets us here -[805.28 --> 806.26] and we mark that -[806.26 --> 807.62] with his greeting -[807.62 --> 808.84] and so open your heart -[808.84 --> 809.58] open your hands -[809.58 --> 810.58] receive the greeting -[810.58 --> 811.84] of our God -[811.84 --> 813.56] grace -[813.56 --> 814.80] mercy -[814.80 --> 815.90] and peace to you -[815.90 --> 817.36] from God our Father -[817.36 --> 818.70] from the Lord Jesus Christ -[818.70 --> 819.26] Son -[819.26 --> 820.30] and our Savior -[820.30 --> 821.40] through the presence -[821.40 --> 822.02] and power -[822.02 --> 823.24] of the Holy Spirit -[823.24 --> 824.62] Amen -[824.62 --> 826.30] I'm going to invite you -[826.30 --> 827.50] to turn to those around you -[827.50 --> 828.62] and welcome them -[828.62 --> 829.96] into our shared worship -[829.96 --> 830.78] together this morning -[830.78 --> 832.62] Amen -[832.62 --> 834.62] Amen -[858.62 --> 864.46] Good morning -[864.46 --> 867.06] Our call to worship -[867.06 --> 867.72] this morning -[867.72 --> 869.12] is a selection of verses -[869.12 --> 870.78] from Psalm 139 -[870.78 --> 871.76] and are especially -[871.76 --> 872.92] appropriate this morning -[872.92 --> 874.26] as we have the privilege -[874.26 --> 875.72] of witnessing the baptism -[875.72 --> 878.46] of Georgia Verhoef -[878.46 --> 880.92] The overwhelming theme -[880.92 --> 882.50] of Psalm 139 -[882.50 --> 883.36] is that our God -[883.36 --> 883.96] and Creator -[883.96 --> 885.30] not only knows us -[885.30 --> 885.86] intimately -[885.86 --> 887.64] but remains present -[887.64 --> 888.20] with us -[888.20 --> 889.28] throughout our lives -[889.28 --> 890.78] Hear these words -[890.78 --> 892.34] of David -[892.34 --> 893.66] in Psalm 139 -[893.66 --> 895.46] You have searched me -[895.46 --> 895.78] Lord -[895.78 --> 896.74] and you know me -[896.74 --> 898.62] You know when I sit -[898.62 --> 899.80] and when I rise -[899.80 --> 901.50] You perceive my thoughts -[901.50 --> 902.28] from afar -[902.28 --> 904.60] You discern my going out -[904.60 --> 905.78] and my lying down -[905.78 --> 907.40] You are familiar -[907.40 --> 908.96] with all of my ways -[908.96 --> 910.32] Before a word -[910.32 --> 911.24] is on my tongue -[911.24 --> 912.46] You, Lord -[912.46 --> 913.56] know it completely -[913.56 --> 915.26] For you created -[915.26 --> 916.38] my inmost being -[916.38 --> 918.04] You knit me together -[918.04 --> 919.22] in my mother's womb -[919.22 --> 921.04] I praise you -[921.04 --> 922.56] because I am fearfully -[922.56 --> 923.92] and wonderfully made -[923.92 --> 925.72] Your works are wonderful -[925.72 --> 927.42] I know that full well -[927.42 --> 929.42] My frame was not hidden -[929.42 --> 929.96] from you -[929.96 --> 930.86] when I was made -[930.86 --> 931.96] in the secret place -[931.96 --> 933.80] when I was woven together -[933.80 --> 935.20] in the depths of the earth -[935.20 --> 936.82] Your eyes -[936.82 --> 938.62] saw my unformed body -[938.62 --> 939.90] All the days -[939.90 --> 940.70] ordained for me -[940.70 --> 941.96] were written in your book -[941.96 --> 943.16] before one of them -[943.16 --> 943.88] came to be -[943.88 --> 945.90] How precious to me -[945.90 --> 947.18] are your thoughts, God -[947.18 --> 949.76] How vast is the sum of them -[949.76 --> 951.56] Were I to count them -[951.56 --> 952.80] they would outnumber -[952.80 --> 953.94] the grains of sand -[953.94 --> 955.44] When I awake -[955.44 --> 956.90] I am still with you -[956.90 --> 959.32] Let's worship our God together -[959.32 --> 961.22] Those who grew up -[961.26 --> 963.32] and I'm still with you -[963.32 --> 964.22] I am still with you -[964.22 --> 964.98] In the midst of the air -[964.98 --> 966.10] Aren't you -[966.10 --> 966.24] Holland -[966.24 --> 967.22] I am still with you -[967.28 --> 967.68] You can write -[968.00 --> 968.24] I am just -[968.26 --> 970.02] I am still with you -[970.02 --> 970.94] and I am sure -[970.94 --> 971.80] I am still with you -[971.80 --> 972.78] I am still with you -[972.78 --> 973.44] I am still with you -[977.40 --> 977.98] Muslim -[977.98 --> 978.36] Welcome -[978.36 --> 979.52] I am now -[979.52 --> 980.32] You can live -[980.32 --> 981.24] My students -[981.24 --> 982.64] Better -[982.64 --> 984.06] but only -[984.06 --> 984.64] You can rain -[984.64 --> 984.80] It's -[985.40 --> 986.14] I am still with you -[986.14 --> 986.70] I am still with you -[986.70 --> 987.36] I am still with you -[987.52 --> 988.44] I am still with you -[988.44 --> 999.46] Light of the world, you step down into darkness. Open my eyes and we see. -[1001.04 --> 1011.32] Beauty the way is on the door. Hope of a life's in within. -[1011.32 --> 1027.22] Here I am to worship. Here I am to bow down. Here I am to sing out for my God. -[1027.22 --> 1038.96] All together loving. All together worthy. All together wonderful to me. -[1041.32 --> 1045.16] Thank you. -[1045.16 --> 1054.66] In all ways I'm so widely exalted, glorious in heaven alone. -[1057.50 --> 1068.36] Only your babe to the earth, your creator, all your allowing me in your firm. -[1068.36 --> 1074.00] Here I am to worship -[1074.00 --> 1077.42] Here I am to bow down -[1077.42 --> 1080.64] Here I am to save you -[1080.64 --> 1083.12] You're my God -[1083.12 --> 1086.62] We're altogether lovely -[1086.62 --> 1089.78] We're altogether worthy -[1089.78 --> 1094.98] We're altogether wonderful to be -[1094.98 --> 1106.22] I'll never know how much it comes -[1106.22 --> 1112.40] To see my sin upon the cross -[1112.40 --> 1118.66] I'll never know how much it comes -[1118.66 --> 1124.80] To see my sin upon the cross -[1124.80 --> 1130.14] Here I am to worship -[1130.14 --> 1133.62] Here I am to bow down -[1133.62 --> 1136.96] Here I am to say that -[1136.96 --> 1139.56] You're my God -[1139.56 --> 1143.00] We're altogether lovely -[1143.00 --> 1146.22] We're altogether worthy -[1146.22 --> 1151.80] We're altogether wonderful to be -[1151.80 --> 1160.16] And I've got Quran -[1161.12 --> 1162.10] I'm hereu now -[1162.10 --> 1163.62] We're altogether wealthy -[1163.62 --> 1164.20] We're altogether worthy -[1164.20 --> 1172.70] We're also at -[1172.70 --> 1173.70] Amen. -[1202.70 --> 1204.70] Amen. -[1232.70 --> 1234.70] Amen. -[1262.70 --> 1263.70] Amen. -[1292.70 --> 1294.70] Amen. -[1322.70 --> 1324.70] Amen. -[1352.70 --> 1354.70] Amen. -[1382.70 --> 1384.70] Amen. -[1412.70 --> 1414.70] Amen. -[1442.70 --> 1462.00] You may be seated. -[1467.00 --> 1468.90] Let's bow our heads in prayer. -[1472.70 --> 1484.74] Holy and merciful God, our creator, our defender, in your presence we confess our offenses against you, our sinfulness and our shortcomings. -[1485.96 --> 1489.84] In Psalm 139 we heard of how intimately you know each of us. -[1490.46 --> 1495.04] We have to admit that often that can be both comforting but also humbling. -[1496.10 --> 1497.92] Only you alone know our hearts. -[1497.92 --> 1504.08] Only you know how often we have sinned and how often we have wandered from your ways. -[1504.78 --> 1508.16] We have acted in ways that are not at all Christ-like. -[1509.12 --> 1513.12] We have not honored you in our thoughts, our words, or our deeds. -[1513.78 --> 1517.20] Have mercy on us, Lord, for we are ashamed and sorry. -[1517.20 --> 1523.64] We know that it is our sins for which you willingly suffered and died an earthly death. -[1524.06 --> 1526.14] And we don't ever want to take that for granted. -[1526.66 --> 1527.50] We're so grateful. -[1528.44 --> 1529.18] Help us, Lord. -[1530.08 --> 1531.26] Purify our hearts. -[1532.04 --> 1535.08] Help us to live every day in your light and in your ways. -[1535.86 --> 1537.02] Thank you for the cross. -[1537.78 --> 1540.02] Jesus, take our lives and lead us on. -[1540.24 --> 1542.44] May we be a sacrifice to you. -[1542.44 --> 1545.00] In your precious name alone we pray. -[1545.52 --> 1545.86] Amen. -[1545.86 --> 1545.98] Amen. -[1572.44 --> 1580.18] Lord, you have my heart. -[1580.18 --> 1586.10] And I will search for yours. -[1587.52 --> 1594.68] Jesus, take my life and lead me on. -[1594.68 --> 1602.42] Lord, you have my heart. -[1602.42 --> 1608.60] And I will search for yours. -[1609.60 --> 1615.42] Can we be to you a sacrifice? -[1615.42 --> 1645.40] Lord, you have my heart. -[1645.40 --> 1653.14] Lord, you have my heart. -[1653.14 --> 1659.14] And I will search for yours. -[1659.14 --> 1666.88] Lord, you have my heart. -[1666.88 --> 1670.88] And I will search for yours. -[1671.88 --> 1678.88] Jesus, take my life and lead me on. -[1678.88 --> 1686.62] Lord, you have my heart. -[1686.62 --> 1691.62] And I will search for yours. -[1691.62 --> 1698.62] Let me be to you a sacrifice. -[1698.62 --> 1700.36] Lord, you have my heart. -[1700.36 --> 1706.36] And I will praise you, Lord. -[1706.36 --> 1710.36] And I will praise you, Lord. -[1710.36 --> 1718.36] And I will save the blood of God. -[1718.36 --> 1720.10] Lord, you have my heart. -[1720.10 --> 1726.10] And I will search for yours. -[1726.10 --> 1728.10] And I will search for yours. -[1728.10 --> 1730.10] And I will search for yours. -[1730.10 --> 1737.84] Lord, you have my heart. -[1737.84 --> 1745.58] Lord, you have my heart. -[1745.58 --> 1747.58] And I will search for yours. -[1747.58 --> 1751.58] And I will search for yours. -[1751.58 --> 1759.58] Jesus, take my life and lead me on. -[1759.58 --> 1767.32] Lord, you have my heart. -[1767.32 --> 1768.72] Please stand for the next song. -[1768.72 --> 1772.76] Let me pray. -[1773.46 --> 1782.62] Lord, you have my heart. -[1782.62 --> 1785.78] Please stand for your throne. -[1785.78 --> 1787.36] Amen. -[1787.36 --> 1788.14] Amen. -[1788.14 --> 1789.34] Amen. -[1789.34 --> 1790.56] Amen. -[1790.56 --> 1792.62] Amen. -[1792.62 --> 1793.54] Amen. -[1793.58 --> 1794.70] Amen. -[1794.70 --> 1794.94] Amen. -[1794.94 --> 1796.08] Amen. -[1796.08 --> 1810.08] You give light, you are Lord. You bring light to the darkness and give hope. -[1810.08 --> 1817.08] You restore every one that is broken. -[1817.08 --> 1824.08] You bring light to the light, you are Lord. -[1824.08 --> 1832.08] It's your breath in our lungs, till we pour out our praise, pour out our praise. -[1832.08 --> 1842.08] It's your breath in our lungs, till we pour out our praise to all you. -[1847.08 --> 1857.08] You give light, you are Lord. You bring light to the darkness and give hope. -[1857.08 --> 1862.08] You give hope, you are Lord. You give hope, you are Lord. -[1862.08 --> 1872.08] You give light, you are Lord. You give light, you are Lord. -[1872.08 --> 1878.08] It's your breath in our lungs, till we pour out our praise. -[1878.08 --> 1888.08] You give light, you are Lord. You give light, you are Lord. -[1888.08 --> 1894.08] It's your breath in our lungs, till we pour out our praise. -[1894.08 --> 1896.08] You give light, you are Lord. -[1896.08 --> 1898.08] You give light, you are Lord. -[1898.08 --> 1900.08] You give light, you are Lord. -[1900.08 --> 1902.08] It's your breath in our lungs, till we pour out our praise. -[1902.08 --> 1904.08] You give light, you are Lord. -[1904.08 --> 1914.08] You give light, you are Lord. -[1914.08 --> 1919.08] You give light, you are Lord. -[1919.08 --> 1931.08] You give light, you are Lord. -[1931.08 --> 1936.08] You give light, you are Lord. -[1936.08 --> 1939.08] You you give light, you are Lord. -[1939.08 --> 1941.08] Oh -[1969.08 --> 1971.08] Oh -[1999.08 --> 2001.08] Oh -[2001.08 --> 2003.08] Oh -[2003.08 --> 2005.08] Oh -[2005.08 --> 2007.08] Oh -[2007.08 --> 2009.08] Oh -[2009.08 --> 2011.08] Oh -[2011.08 --> 2013.08] Oh -[2013.08 --> 2015.08] Oh -[2015.08 --> 2017.08] Oh -[2017.08 --> 2019.08] Oh -[2019.08 --> 2021.08] Oh -[2025.08 --> 2043.08] As we began and said at the beginning we have the opportunity to welcome another family into our church family here this morning and to do that I'm going to invite the Verhoove family up to the front and so Warren and Mel Amelia Matteo Josephine and Georgia are all going to invite the Verhoove family up to the front. -[2043.08 --> 2053.08] And so Warren and Mel Amelia Matteo Josephine and Georgia are all going to come up to the front why don't you guys come up to this part of the stage here. -[2053.08 --> 2058.08] We'll start on this side and then we'll move over here eventually. -[2058.08 --> 2063.08] But here people can see us and it makes it easier for the camera to follow where we are. -[2063.08 --> 2079.08] So the Verhoove have come to us from Chilliwack Alliance Church and have been worshiping with us for a little while now after moving into the neighborhood up the hill in Marieville. -[2079.08 --> 2099.08] It's our hope and prayer that here at Emmanuel your faith will be strengthened that your love for Jesus will be grown and that you will find opportunity to serve in the spirit as you join with us on mission with God in this community and through it to the world. -[2099.08 --> 2112.78] As we welcome you into our church family we want to ask you to affirm faith that you have professed and been baptized in and affirm your commitment to God's mission in and through Langley Emanuel here. -[2113.70 --> 2116.52] To do so I'm going to ask three questions. -[2116.90 --> 2119.34] At the end of those three questions I will invite you to respond. -[2119.86 --> 2121.08] We do with God's help. -[2121.08 --> 2129.48] First, do you believe in Jesus as your Savior and Lord and that in him only is hope and freedom from sin found? -[2130.34 --> 2140.46] Do you believe that the Bible is the word of God revealing his plan for redemption in Jesus Christ and that the preaching and teaching of Langley Emanuel faithfully reflect this truth? -[2140.46 --> 2150.30] And do you promise with the help of the Holy Spirit to do all you can to strengthen your relationship to Jesus by being part of the life of this church family? -[2150.72 --> 2159.02] Recognizing its oversight and authority and joining with us on mission for Jesus in this community, this city, and to the world. -[2159.40 --> 2160.68] Warren and Mel, what is your answer? -[2161.10 --> 2162.40] We do with God's help. -[2162.76 --> 2163.04] Amen. -[2163.04 --> 2163.20] Amen. -[2163.20 --> 2163.28] Amen. -[2165.62 --> 2174.32] Now as we have welcomed you in our church family, you also then receive the blessing and the privileges of baptism. -[2175.54 --> 2182.58] We have welcomed you and now we come to a service of baptism together. -[2183.52 --> 2191.92] And if you are unfamiliar with the Reformed tradition and our experiences and ideas, theology around baptism, -[2191.92 --> 2205.04] let me just say that we don't baptize infants out of superstition or just because of tradition or because we particularly like cute babies and even not cute babies, but none of those exist. -[2206.00 --> 2217.18] We baptize infants because they are covenant children and the promises of God are extended to them and therefore they should receive the sign of the covenant. -[2217.18 --> 2222.52] In Genesis 15, God made a promise to Abraham. -[2223.24 --> 2227.22] And this covenant was sealed with the sign of circumcision in Genesis 17. -[2228.08 --> 2230.68] And God promised to bless Abraham. -[2231.48 --> 2234.68] Now for Abraham, this meant two things in particular. -[2235.22 --> 2239.40] It meant offspring, it meant babies, and it meant land. -[2239.40 --> 2246.06] But at the heart of the covenant was God's promise that he would be a God to Abraham and his children. -[2247.06 --> 2252.86] And God cut a covenant into Israel's flesh, carving out for himself a people. -[2254.06 --> 2259.20] And in the fullness of time, God sent his only son, Jesus, to be our Savior. -[2259.36 --> 2262.98] And in his death on the cross, our old self is dead and buried. -[2262.98 --> 2268.34] And in his resurrection, we rise to new life and look forward to his new creation. -[2269.72 --> 2273.54] When we baptize in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, -[2274.00 --> 2280.94] the triune God seals our adoption as his children and writes his name invisibly on our foreheads. -[2281.46 --> 2281.84] He says, -[2281.92 --> 2287.36] You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God. -[2287.54 --> 2291.60] Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God. -[2291.60 --> 2297.24] By baptism, we recognize a new identity in Christ Jesus. -[2298.42 --> 2300.68] So if you guys shift over here. -[2303.20 --> 2308.12] We come to administer the sacrament of baptism to Georgia today, -[2308.36 --> 2311.90] then with the weight of church history to encourage us -[2311.90 --> 2316.84] and the example of redemptive history to confirm our practice. -[2317.42 --> 2320.00] We baptize in obedience to Christ's command, -[2320.00 --> 2326.20] and the sacrament that we are about to administer is a sign of the inclusion into the covenant community -[2326.20 --> 2327.82] as circumcision once was. -[2328.38 --> 2332.54] And the water we are about to sprinkle is a sign of the cleansing from sin -[2332.54 --> 2336.24] as the sprinkled blood of bulls and goats also once was. -[2337.22 --> 2341.68] We pray that Georgia will take advantage of all her covenant privileges, -[2342.24 --> 2344.96] that she will acknowledge her Lord all the days of her life, -[2344.96 --> 2349.68] and that she will make the faith promises offered here today her own. -[2350.62 --> 2351.30] Warren and Mel, -[2352.12 --> 2353.80] you've shared your profession of faith already, -[2354.14 --> 2355.32] but I have one more question. -[2356.36 --> 2357.46] Do you promise, -[2357.86 --> 2359.54] in reliance on the Holy Spirit, -[2359.62 --> 2361.22] with the help of the Christian community, -[2361.60 --> 2363.10] to do all in your power -[2363.10 --> 2364.66] to instruct Georgia -[2364.66 --> 2366.48] and all of your children -[2366.48 --> 2367.86] in the Christian faith, -[2367.86 --> 2369.90] and to lead them by your example -[2369.90 --> 2372.68] into the life of Christian discipleship? -[2373.02 --> 2373.68] What is your answer? -[2375.40 --> 2375.84] Amen. -[2376.92 --> 2378.10] Our Lord Jesus said, -[2378.28 --> 2379.96] let the little children come to me -[2379.96 --> 2381.32] and do not hinder them, -[2381.48 --> 2383.84] for to them belongs the kingdom of God. -[2384.28 --> 2384.78] And so, -[2384.92 --> 2386.42] if you are a little child -[2386.42 --> 2387.52] or a little child at heart -[2387.52 --> 2388.78] and would like a better vantage point, -[2389.14 --> 2391.10] I'm going to invite you to come up to the front here -[2391.10 --> 2393.62] and just sit around the edge -[2393.62 --> 2395.16] so that you can see -[2395.16 --> 2397.42] and participate in this -[2397.42 --> 2399.48] with Georgia. -[2403.74 --> 2404.78] Come on, right in. -[2404.84 --> 2405.38] Right in, Ruby. -[2405.48 --> 2405.82] Right here. -[2405.90 --> 2407.82] Take the lead and be bold in it. -[2408.18 --> 2408.58] Perfect. -[2416.20 --> 2417.62] In just a moment, guys, -[2417.66 --> 2419.18] we're going to take this water -[2419.18 --> 2422.04] and we're going to place it -[2422.04 --> 2423.52] over top of Georgia's head. -[2426.88 --> 2429.90] And just like you wash your bodies -[2429.90 --> 2431.28] to be clean of dirt, -[2431.44 --> 2435.50] God promises to wash us clean of our sin -[2435.50 --> 2436.94] and to make us his own. -[2437.06 --> 2440.20] That's what this water is a symbol of. -[2440.88 --> 2441.82] So as you see this -[2441.82 --> 2443.64] and as Georgia gets this put on her head, -[2444.10 --> 2444.90] God is saying, -[2444.90 --> 2446.90] you are my daughter. -[2446.90 --> 2449.20] Just as he has said to many of you, -[2449.30 --> 2451.10] you are my child. -[2452.74 --> 2453.70] Let me put her forward here. -[2458.90 --> 2459.30] Georgia, -[2459.78 --> 2460.32] Ricky, -[2460.78 --> 2461.20] Verhoof. -[2461.76 --> 2463.60] I baptize you in the name of the Father, -[2464.50 --> 2465.60] the name of the Son, -[2466.36 --> 2468.00] and the name of the Holy Spirit. -[2469.00 --> 2469.36] Amen. -[2469.36 --> 2469.50] Amen. -[2469.50 --> 2469.54] Amen. -[2469.54 --> 2469.56] Amen. -[2469.56 --> 2469.62] Amen. -[2469.62 --> 2469.66] Amen. -[2476.90 --> 2484.00] If baptism is a symbol of the death -[2484.00 --> 2485.26] and resurrection of Jesus, -[2485.44 --> 2487.16] it is fitting when babies cry -[2487.16 --> 2488.70] because dying and rising -[2488.70 --> 2490.14] is a miracle of God -[2490.14 --> 2491.24] and it is hard work. -[2495.24 --> 2495.88] Georgia, -[2496.40 --> 2499.02] we welcome you -[2499.02 --> 2501.28] into the family of Jesus. -[2502.04 --> 2503.28] And so the Lord bless you -[2503.28 --> 2504.48] and keep you. -[2504.48 --> 2505.16] Lord, -[2505.22 --> 2506.56] make his face to shine upon you -[2506.56 --> 2507.84] and be gracious to you. -[2508.22 --> 2510.12] The Lord turn his face toward you -[2510.12 --> 2512.62] and give you his peace. -[2513.34 --> 2514.28] In this way, -[2514.40 --> 2516.10] the Lord writes his name -[2516.10 --> 2517.66] on Georgia -[2517.66 --> 2519.58] and makes her his own. -[2520.32 --> 2520.64] Amen. -[2523.82 --> 2525.28] May I take her for a second? -[2528.08 --> 2529.12] Hey, beautiful. -[2529.12 --> 2534.44] Congregation of Jesus Christ, -[2535.24 --> 2539.86] this child is a member of our family. -[2541.10 --> 2543.68] As she comes to us from Warren and Mel, -[2543.88 --> 2545.12] make no mistake about it, -[2545.18 --> 2546.32] she comes to you -[2546.32 --> 2548.40] and is now your spiritual daughter. -[2549.90 --> 2551.94] And so whether you are 11 -[2551.94 --> 2554.86] or 111, -[2555.56 --> 2557.20] she belongs to you -[2557.20 --> 2558.74] just as you belong to her. -[2559.92 --> 2560.24] Today, -[2560.40 --> 2561.88] she begins a journey of faith -[2561.88 --> 2563.34] that we hope and pray -[2563.34 --> 2565.20] will one day include -[2565.20 --> 2566.32] her standing again -[2566.32 --> 2567.38] in front of us -[2567.38 --> 2568.36] saying, -[2568.86 --> 2570.00] this promise offered to me -[2570.00 --> 2570.60] in baptism, -[2570.80 --> 2573.74] I believe as my own. -[2574.64 --> 2576.80] And you have the privilege, -[2577.44 --> 2579.10] you have the responsibility -[2579.10 --> 2581.36] of helping her -[2581.36 --> 2583.46] in that journey. -[2583.46 --> 2589.04] She is of us -[2589.04 --> 2591.82] because she has the name of Jesus -[2591.82 --> 2593.88] written on her forehead -[2593.88 --> 2596.02] and so begins -[2596.02 --> 2597.82] her journey of faith -[2597.82 --> 2598.78] with you. -[2599.52 --> 2600.94] And so receive her -[2600.94 --> 2602.92] as your daughter -[2602.92 --> 2604.46] in the Lord. -[2605.74 --> 2606.38] Congregation, -[2606.52 --> 2607.66] I'm going to invite you to stand -[2607.66 --> 2609.02] because you too -[2609.02 --> 2609.68] are going to offer -[2609.68 --> 2610.80] a promise and a blessing -[2610.80 --> 2612.16] to Georgia, -[2612.48 --> 2613.56] to Warren and Mel. -[2621.16 --> 2621.80] Congregation, -[2622.26 --> 2623.48] do you promise -[2623.48 --> 2624.22] to love -[2624.22 --> 2624.88] and courage -[2624.88 --> 2625.58] and support -[2625.58 --> 2626.82] Warren and Mel, -[2627.28 --> 2628.32] Georgia and Amelia -[2628.32 --> 2629.08] and Mateo -[2629.08 --> 2629.92] and Josephine -[2629.92 --> 2630.94] by teaching -[2630.94 --> 2632.02] the gospel -[2632.02 --> 2632.94] of God's love, -[2633.36 --> 2634.62] by being an example -[2634.62 --> 2635.70] of Christian faith -[2635.70 --> 2636.30] and character -[2636.30 --> 2637.40] and by giving -[2637.40 --> 2638.66] the strong support -[2638.66 --> 2640.00] of God's family -[2640.00 --> 2640.92] in fellowship -[2640.92 --> 2641.78] and prayer -[2641.78 --> 2642.74] and in service? -[2643.04 --> 2643.90] What is your answer? -[2646.40 --> 2646.88] Amen. -[2647.58 --> 2648.04] Amen. -[2648.20 --> 2648.74] Would you please -[2648.74 --> 2650.10] have a seat together? -[2650.50 --> 2651.26] Kids, you can go back -[2651.26 --> 2652.54] to your... -[2652.54 --> 2653.28] Would you mind just moving -[2653.28 --> 2653.88] to the front -[2653.88 --> 2654.68] on the ground there? -[2656.22 --> 2658.18] To mark this occasion. -[2659.18 --> 2660.48] Yeah, on the ground, Warren. -[2660.60 --> 2661.42] So then we can... -[2661.42 --> 2663.02] We have a gift for you -[2663.02 --> 2663.64] and a little bit -[2663.64 --> 2664.20] of a welcome -[2664.20 --> 2666.24] from our church -[2666.24 --> 2667.36] and a certificate -[2667.36 --> 2668.40] and so I'm going to invite -[2668.40 --> 2669.62] Eric Hubert up. -[2669.78 --> 2670.44] He's already here. -[2670.58 --> 2672.82] He is your new district elder -[2672.82 --> 2674.84] and so he will connect -[2674.84 --> 2675.36] with you -[2675.36 --> 2678.08] and he offers you this -[2678.08 --> 2679.34] on behalf of our church. -[2680.18 --> 2681.36] I'm also going to ask -[2681.36 --> 2682.68] that we might pray for them -[2682.68 --> 2683.58] and so Kevin is going -[2683.58 --> 2684.44] to come up to the front. -[2685.00 --> 2685.60] He's going to lead us -[2685.60 --> 2686.64] in prayer for you guys -[2686.64 --> 2688.00] and so if you're an elder -[2688.00 --> 2688.70] in this church -[2688.70 --> 2690.22] or if you have met -[2690.22 --> 2691.76] and welcomed Warren -[2691.76 --> 2692.26] and Mel -[2692.26 --> 2692.90] and their family -[2692.90 --> 2694.52] or if you are family -[2694.52 --> 2695.68] to Warren and Mel -[2695.68 --> 2696.66] we invite you also -[2696.66 --> 2697.38] to come up -[2697.38 --> 2698.30] and we can lay hands -[2698.30 --> 2698.74] on them -[2698.74 --> 2700.46] and welcome them -[2700.46 --> 2700.98] in that way. -[2701.88 --> 2702.88] If you aren't going -[2702.88 --> 2703.50] to come up -[2703.50 --> 2704.24] but would like to -[2704.24 --> 2705.14] you may also just -[2705.14 --> 2706.10] stick out your hand -[2706.10 --> 2707.56] and welcome them -[2707.56 --> 2708.82] in our midst that way. -[2709.68 --> 2710.70] Kevin is going to pray. -[2719.34 --> 2720.32] Let's bow our heads. -[2720.32 --> 2722.32] Holy Father, -[2722.32 --> 2722.34] Holy Father, -[2722.82 --> 2724.06] Son, Spirit, -[2724.16 --> 2724.88] we are grateful -[2724.88 --> 2726.48] that we can come here today -[2726.48 --> 2727.80] and be present here -[2727.80 --> 2728.46] to witness -[2728.46 --> 2729.82] the baptism -[2729.82 --> 2730.90] of Georgia Verhoeven. -[2731.38 --> 2732.18] Lord, we thank you -[2732.18 --> 2733.62] for the Verhoeven family, -[2733.76 --> 2734.12] for Mel, -[2734.24 --> 2734.66] for Warren, -[2734.72 --> 2735.36] that they have come -[2735.36 --> 2736.30] into this place -[2736.30 --> 2737.24] to become part -[2737.24 --> 2738.22] of this congregation, -[2738.42 --> 2739.00] this body -[2739.00 --> 2739.70] and Lord, -[2739.78 --> 2740.38] we are grateful -[2740.38 --> 2741.74] that they have committed -[2741.74 --> 2742.66] to this church -[2742.66 --> 2744.02] just like so many -[2744.02 --> 2744.64] of us here -[2744.64 --> 2745.84] and Lord, -[2745.92 --> 2747.06] as they go forward -[2747.06 --> 2748.72] knowing the promises -[2748.72 --> 2749.64] that you have laid out -[2749.64 --> 2750.60] not just for them -[2750.60 --> 2751.70] but for all of us, -[2752.12 --> 2752.94] that may we revel -[2752.94 --> 2753.54] in that -[2753.54 --> 2754.72] and may we sit -[2754.72 --> 2755.32] in that -[2755.32 --> 2757.06] and may we be confident -[2757.06 --> 2758.28] in those promises -[2758.28 --> 2759.98] that you are our God -[2759.98 --> 2760.94] and that you are -[2760.94 --> 2761.80] with us always. -[2762.80 --> 2763.36] We thank you -[2763.36 --> 2764.08] for this family -[2764.08 --> 2764.62] and we pray -[2764.62 --> 2765.44] that you will continue -[2765.44 --> 2766.80] to walk alongside them -[2766.80 --> 2769.66] and may they glorify you -[2769.66 --> 2770.72] in everything -[2770.72 --> 2771.84] they say and do -[2771.84 --> 2773.08] and Lord, -[2773.18 --> 2774.36] may we as a congregation -[2774.36 --> 2775.18] do this thing. -[2775.68 --> 2776.66] We pray this in your name. -[2777.06 --> 2777.30] Amen. -[2777.30 --> 2777.96] Amen. -[2783.84 --> 2784.74] Thanks guys. -[2792.54 --> 2793.86] Let's stand together -[2793.86 --> 2794.50] and sing -[2794.50 --> 2795.78] of God's faithfulness. -[2795.78 --> 2796.78] Amen. -[2807.30 --> 2808.30] Amen. -[2837.30 --> 2843.84] Great is thy faithfulness, -[2843.84 --> 2848.34] O God my Father, -[2849.34 --> 2852.74] There is no shadow -[2852.74 --> 2856.84] of turning with thee. -[2856.84 --> 2860.84] Thou changeest God, -[2860.92 --> 2862.60] Thy compassion, -[2863.12 --> 2865.16] sing them all. -[2865.16 --> 2868.84] As thou hast been, -[2868.84 --> 2872.60] Thou forever will be. -[2872.60 --> 2877.50] Great is thy faithfulness, -[2877.50 --> 2881.40] Great is thy faithfulness, -[2881.40 --> 2884.42] For in thy Lord, -[2884.54 --> 2888.60] In mercies I see, -[2888.60 --> 2900.18] Though I know -[2900.18 --> 2909.02] I know where Beth- -[2909.02 --> 2922.30] And winter and springtime and harvest, sun, moon, and stars in their courses above. -[2922.30 --> 2940.30] Joy with all nature in manifold witness, to thy great faithfulness, mercy, and love. -[2940.30 --> 2957.06] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness, morning by morning new mercies I see. -[2957.06 --> 2972.18] All I am here is thy land that provided, great is thy faithfulness, Lord, and true. -[2972.18 --> 2973.18] Amen. -[3002.18 --> 3003.18] Amen. -[3003.18 --> 3004.18] Amen. -[3032.18 --> 3038.66] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, and true. -[3038.66 --> 3039.66] Amen. -[3054.04 --> 3054.76] Good morning. -[3054.94 --> 3057.84] My name is Mike, and I serve as a deacon here in the church family. -[3057.84 --> 3062.46] And we're going to take a moment now to give of the blessings that God has given to us. -[3063.00 --> 3066.36] And this morning we're giving to the Wycliffe Bible Translators. -[3066.86 --> 3070.38] So they are a pretty great little organization. -[3070.80 --> 3072.48] They focus on translating the Bible. -[3072.64 --> 3073.86] And it's more than that. -[3073.96 --> 3077.38] They also focus on literacy and education for people groups. -[3077.86 --> 3082.70] So they spend a lot of time focusing on actually minority groups who either don't have a written language -[3082.70 --> 3086.42] and then, of course, would not have the Bible accessible in their language. -[3086.72 --> 3087.78] So it's pretty cool. -[3087.84 --> 3088.74] What they do. -[3089.16 --> 3095.06] And Wycliffe Canada actually has some major projects going on in Cameroon, the Dominican Republic, -[3095.44 --> 3099.46] or not Dominican Republic, sorry, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and with the Cree Nation -[3099.46 --> 3100.54] in North America here. -[3101.10 --> 3107.60] So, yeah, they work with a lot of local people, local churches, and helping people to access -[3107.60 --> 3108.36] the word of the Lord. -[3108.54 --> 3109.24] It's pretty great work. -[3109.64 --> 3112.94] So please give willingly and freely. -[3113.06 --> 3113.40] Thank you. -[3113.40 --> 3113.46] Thank you. -[3113.46 --> 3114.46] Thank you. -[3114.46 --> 3115.46] Thank you. -[3115.46 --> 3116.46] Thank you. -[3116.46 --> 3117.46] Thank you. -[3117.46 --> 3122.24] Thank you. -[3122.24 --> 3152.22] Thank you. -[3152.24 --> 3182.22] Thank you. -[3182.24 --> 3212.22] Thank you. -[3212.24 --> 3242.22] Thank you. -[3242.24 --> 3248.46] Praise God, praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[3249.58 --> 3257.62] Praise Him, praise Him, for the wonders of His love. -[3257.62 --> 3265.84] Praise God, praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[3265.84 --> 3274.84] Praise Him, praise Him, for the wonders of His love. -[3274.84 --> 3292.06] Praise God, praise Him, for the wonders of His love. -[3292.06 --> 3300.28] Praise God, praise Him, for the wonders of His love. -[3300.28 --> 3302.28] Praise God, praise Him, for the wonders of His love. -[3302.28 --> 3309.58] Praise God, praise God, forever He is, we know it is well. -[3309.58 --> 3315.80] I'm walking in peace. -[3315.80 --> 3317.80] God so loved the world. -[3317.80 --> 3326.02] All right. -[3326.02 --> 3327.02] All right. -[3327.02 --> 3343.24] All right. -[3343.24 --> 3344.08] All right, kids. -[3344.08 --> 3344.46] All right. -[3344.46 --> 3360.46] All right. -[3360.90 --> 3364.52] Hello, how are we all doing today? -[3364.52 --> 3364.60] Good. -[3364.68 --> 3365.68] Good. -[3365.68 --> 3365.72] Good. -[3365.80 --> 3367.18] Can you guys say hi to Hank? -[3367.68 --> 3370.20] Hi, everyone. -[3371.02 --> 3372.68] How are you? -[3373.68 --> 3374.40] Good. -[3374.40 --> 3390.40] What? Hey, I have a question. What did we do here in Kids Corner last week? Do you remember? Yeah. We did. We just baptized your little sister. That's so right. And what do you remember what we did here last week? Yeah. -[3390.40 --> 3419.46] That's right. We learned how to welcome each other in different languages. Hank, you missed out. That sounds neat. And we made the whole church do it too, right? They all stood up and we learned how people greeted each other in places like Tibet and Japan. Did you do dogs? Sorry? Did you do dogs last week? No, we didn't do dogs. We did different countries. Dogs greet themselves in cool ways too. Everyone stand up. -[3419.46 --> 3437.86] And I need you to bend over at the hip. Okay. Oh, no, no, no. We're not going to do the dog greeting, Hank. That's not, we're not doing that today. We did that last week. Mrs. Nikki led us in that, right? Yeah. Is she the lady who sat on me? Yeah, she did like two years ago and you haven't given it up since. It hurt me a little. -[3437.86 --> 3451.06] All right. Well, today we're going to talk about some other things. And actually, Hank, I was wondering if you could do us a favor. I think you presented or created a little bit of a presentation for us because you went on a trip, which we learned about a month ago. -[3451.42 --> 3453.86] I did by mistake, but I did. -[3454.40 --> 3459.06] He went all over the world and he saw all sorts of things. Can you show us, Hank? -[3459.16 --> 3460.30] Yeah, look at the pictures. -[3460.30 --> 3480.26] So here's Hank at Bridal Falls in BC. Cool, Hank. And then I went out to the Ontario and saw Niagara Falls. Isn't that nice? You used to live near there, right? And then he went even further. Look at this. That's him in the United States at Yosemite Falls. -[3480.26 --> 3507.60] I don't really see you, Hank, though. Where are you? I'm up at the top. Oh, yeah. There you are. I was there for four days. Four days? My guy forgot me at the top of the hill. Oh, that's too bad. It was so beautiful, though. Well, where else did you go, Hank? Let's see. We went to Skagafoss Falls. Whoa, that was in Iceland. And where else? We went, you guys went to Victoria Falls in Zambia? -[3507.60 --> 3517.84] Mm-hmm. It was really big. And we did one more too in Venezuela. Or Angel Falls in Venezuela. Cool. Isn't that so cool? -[3518.52 --> 3522.02] Now, why do you think we want to talk about falls today? I bet you'll never guess. -[3523.20 --> 3531.64] Well, we are talking in Sunday school, in children's worship time, about how brokenness has entered the world through the fall of man. See the link? -[3531.82 --> 3537.02] And how God works through us, even in our brokenness. Isn't that something? -[3537.02 --> 3542.60] Good work. Thank you. And so we're going to talk about that today in children's worship time, okay? -[3543.20 --> 3545.98] Can we bow our heads and pray? Yeah? Let's do that. -[3546.80 --> 3551.20] Dear God, we thank you that we can come to church this morning and we can go to children's worship time today as well. -[3551.26 --> 3556.40] We pray, God, that as we talk about how you work through our weaknesses, that we will be blessed by that. -[3556.48 --> 3560.10] We pray for the adults, too, as they stay back here and learn from Pastor Chris as well. -[3560.22 --> 3564.14] And God, we just ask that you are glorified by everything that happens here today. -[3564.14 --> 3565.84] We pray this in your name. Amen. -[3566.48 --> 3569.46] Okay, we're going to stand up and do the Lord, or the children's blessing, okay? -[3569.70 --> 3573.20] So everybody stand up and let's do this together. -[3573.36 --> 3575.06] We're going to say, the Lord be with you. Are we ready? -[3576.06 --> 3578.14] The Lord be with you. -[3578.54 --> 3579.98] And also with you. -[3580.28 --> 3581.20] All right, you know where you're going. -[3581.20 --> 3581.70] Yes! -[3585.70 --> 3586.02] Yes! -[3586.02 --> 3604.92] Good morning. -[3605.74 --> 3608.14] My name is Daryl. I'm one of the elders here at Emanuel. -[3608.74 --> 3611.80] I just have a few announcements before we get into the church family prayer. -[3611.80 --> 3614.48] So next week is our annual AGM. -[3615.38 --> 3619.52] And so we will be talking about the 2024 ministry and mission budget. -[3620.12 --> 3625.02] We also will gather for the, at 6 p.m., a little bit earlier, for the Tri-Soup Tournament. -[3625.98 --> 3628.18] So looking forward to seeing what everyone can bring. -[3628.48 --> 3632.72] I'm not competitive at all, so you won't be worrying about my soup. -[3632.72 --> 3640.38] And then also, as of October 31st, we are about 24% behind on the year-to-date giving. -[3641.08 --> 3645.66] So we are grateful for everyone's generosity to this point, and we just hope that we can finish the year off strong. -[3646.42 --> 3648.88] And we can support all those ministries in our church. -[3649.84 --> 3652.14] A couple of updates for prayer requests as well. -[3653.00 --> 3660.10] Sai Visser is back in the hospital, and so he underwent, so he went back into the hospital due to severe pain in his shoulder. -[3660.10 --> 3665.62] And they learned that, unfortunately, the cancer that he was in remission from is back. -[3666.24 --> 3667.44] And so we pray for Sai and Greta. -[3668.24 --> 3670.60] And they are also very thankful for your prayers. -[3671.64 --> 3673.12] We pray for Judy Prestig. -[3673.88 --> 3675.24] It's her daughter-in-law, Nicole. -[3675.84 --> 3680.08] Wife to Dan was taken to hospital Friday night after her heart stopped. -[3680.70 --> 3684.26] So they did revive her, and they're treating her for various concerns. -[3684.50 --> 3686.60] So we pray for that family. -[3686.60 --> 3692.38] And just an update on Teenie Vriend as well, a mom to Brenda and Linda and Jody. -[3693.04 --> 3694.20] She remains in hospice. -[3694.96 --> 3697.72] And they are watching right now, so hello, Teenie and family. -[3698.64 --> 3705.28] We just continue to pray for the peace of Christ in the face of death and the hope of resurrection as they journey in this valley of the shadow. -[3705.70 --> 3708.52] The family is grateful for all of your prayers and support as well. -[3708.52 --> 3710.48] And one last prayer update. -[3710.74 --> 3714.24] Rob Alkama's niece, Lindsay, in Ontario, has just passed away. -[3714.68 --> 3715.76] So the funeral is today. -[3716.00 --> 3718.86] So we pray for Rob and his siblings who are out in Ontario at the moment. -[3721.02 --> 3723.20] Let's go to God in our church family prayer. -[3723.20 --> 3734.80] Father in heaven, we come before you in thanks this morning for the gift of joining together in worship and fellowship. -[3735.62 --> 3740.40] As we come before you, we are grateful for your love and grace that sustains us each day. -[3741.30 --> 3745.88] We confess, Lord, that we often fall short of reflecting your love and grace in our lives. -[3745.88 --> 3756.02] Forgive us for the times we have turned away from your will, for your harsh selfishness, and for the moments we have failed to extend compassion and kindness to others. -[3756.52 --> 3762.66] Grant us hearts eager to seek reconciliation and humility to follow in the footsteps of Christ. -[3763.60 --> 3767.60] Please be with the Hogawoning-Hibbenike families as they grieve the loss of loved ones. -[3768.20 --> 3771.32] Give them comfort as they have the memorial services this week. -[3771.32 --> 3776.64] Please be with Tini Green and her family as she is now in palliative care. -[3777.36 --> 3784.66] We also pray for the many others who are struggling with health concerns, whether they be known, unknown, physical, mental, or emotional. -[3785.32 --> 3790.84] Many suffer in silence and we pray you open their hearts to those around them who can help and support them -[3790.84 --> 3794.44] and give us what we need to be there for those in our lives we can help. -[3795.22 --> 3800.90] In a world filled with turmoil and uncertainty, we lift our prayers for healing and peace. -[3800.90 --> 3803.82] We pray for those affected by the war in Ukraine and Israel. -[3804.48 --> 3809.06] Please give wisdom to the leaders as they make decisions that can have long-lasting impacts on their citizens. -[3809.98 --> 3816.88] We think of your word in Luke 21, and then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with great power and great glory. -[3817.40 --> 3823.24] Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads because your redemption is drawing near. -[3824.08 --> 3827.26] What hope and encouragement we can take from your word, O Lord. -[3827.26 --> 3831.74] Be with those that are struggling in their faith and continue to work in their hearts. -[3832.22 --> 3835.54] We pray for Pastor Chris as he brings us your word this morning. -[3836.12 --> 3838.90] May you speak through him and convict us through your word. -[3839.42 --> 3843.06] As we continue on this journey of faith together, deepen our understanding of your word. -[3843.68 --> 3848.00] Open our hearts to receive your teachings and empower us to live out the gospel in our daily lives. -[3848.68 --> 3852.32] Help us to be a light in our communities, sharing your love and grace with everyone we encounter. -[3852.32 --> 3860.28] Lord, we thank you for the blessing that overflows in our lives, the joy of fellowship, and for the privilege of worshiping you together. -[3860.58 --> 3862.98] May your spirit continue to guide us and empower us. -[3863.74 --> 3867.22] We pray this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer. Amen. -[3867.22 --> 3867.32] Amen. -[3867.32 --> 3867.38] Amen. -[3882.32 --> 3883.32] Amen. -[3883.32 --> 3884.32] Amen. -[3884.32 --> 3885.32] Amen. -[3885.32 --> 3886.32] Amen. -[3886.32 --> 3887.32] Amen. -[3887.32 --> 3888.32] Amen. -[3888.32 --> 3896.72] Over the last while, we have been working hard in working our way through the book of Romans, -[3897.10 --> 3901.36] in particular, more recently, chapters 9 through 11. -[3902.06 --> 3907.62] We continue with that this morning, reading chapter 11, the first 10 verses. -[3907.62 --> 3911.16] It will be on the screen behind me, our first time through it. -[3911.62 --> 3916.40] But if you have a Bible, I encourage you, as always, to open that up, to have that in front of you, -[3916.46 --> 3921.26] as we will be making reference and doing a little bit of jumping around. -[3923.46 --> 3930.94] Before I read the text, let me say, if when you got the e-bulletin or when you walked in this morning -[3930.94 --> 3936.88] and got the worship paper and you saw the title of this message being, -[3936.88 --> 3938.56] What About Israel? -[3939.88 --> 3947.00] And you were immediately concerned because of the geopolitical situations that we find ourselves in. -[3948.00 --> 3951.48] Let me say that this isn't that talk. -[3951.48 --> 3959.32] This is, I believe, a more important question about identity and theology, -[3960.08 --> 3964.86] but I'm also not going to use this platform to engage in geopolitics. -[3965.14 --> 3966.48] I don't think that's faithful. -[3967.38 --> 3969.38] Now, I have lots of opinions and perspectives, -[3969.60 --> 3973.40] and I'm happy to go tete-a-tete with anyone who wants to debate those things. -[3973.74 --> 3975.66] We can do that after over coffee. -[3975.66 --> 3981.52] So, if that's what you were here to hear, apologies, it's not what you're going to hear. -[3983.20 --> 3990.32] What we are going to do is read what God has for us in Romans 11, -[3990.52 --> 4000.20] as Paul wrestles with the sovereignty of God and the people of Israel's seeming rejection -[4000.20 --> 4002.88] of the message of the gospel. -[4002.88 --> 4008.52] And so then let's read together in Romans 11. -[4011.62 --> 4013.44] Paul writes, he continues, -[4013.88 --> 4017.42] I ask then, did God reject his people? -[4018.58 --> 4019.66] By no means. -[4020.58 --> 4025.18] I am an Israelite myself, a descendant of Abraham from the tribe of Benjamin. -[4026.30 --> 4029.28] God did not reject his people whom he foreknew. -[4029.28 --> 4033.16] Don't you know what scripture says in the passage about Elijah? -[4033.70 --> 4037.12] How he appealed to God against Israel, saying, -[4037.52 --> 4040.32] Lord, they have killed your prophets and torn down your altars. -[4040.52 --> 4043.86] I am the only one left, and they are trying to kill me. -[4044.64 --> 4046.02] And what was God's answer to him? -[4047.02 --> 4051.56] I have reserved for myself 7,000 who have not bowed the knee to Baal. -[4051.56 --> 4056.26] So too, at the present time, there is a remnant chosen by grace. -[4056.96 --> 4059.60] And if by grace, then it cannot be based on works. -[4059.88 --> 4062.32] If it were, grace would no longer be grace. -[4063.32 --> 4064.12] What then? -[4065.32 --> 4069.16] What the people of Israel sought so earnestly they did not obtain. -[4069.74 --> 4072.46] The elect among them did, but others were hardened. -[4072.46 --> 4073.98] As it is written, -[4074.94 --> 4077.26] God gave them a spirit of stupor, -[4077.38 --> 4080.50] eyes that could not see and ears that could not hear, -[4080.64 --> 4081.92] to this very day. -[4083.10 --> 4083.88] And David says, -[4084.36 --> 4086.80] May their table become a snare and a trap, -[4086.90 --> 4089.46] a stumbling block and a retribution for them. -[4089.86 --> 4092.54] May their eyes be darkened so they cannot see -[4092.54 --> 4095.24] and their backs be bent forever. -[4095.96 --> 4097.22] This is the word of the Lord. -[4097.22 --> 4097.28] Amen. -[4102.46 --> 4106.50] Did God reject his people? -[4108.44 --> 4113.66] That's the question that Paul moves to next. -[4115.60 --> 4120.30] And it's a question, I think, that actually really makes sense. -[4120.42 --> 4123.54] We could anticipate it pretty eagerly and readily, -[4124.20 --> 4127.40] given where we've been and what he has said. -[4127.40 --> 4131.36] And as we work through it, -[4131.42 --> 4135.68] I hope we will also see that it's the same question -[4135.68 --> 4141.28] that is on the hearts and minds of so many of us here this morning. -[4142.56 --> 4144.64] After every advantage, -[4145.82 --> 4149.44] did God reject the people who rejected him? -[4149.44 --> 4157.46] So let me give you a super quick three-line summary -[4157.46 --> 4160.82] and recap of this section of Romans -[4160.82 --> 4162.34] that got us to this point. -[4163.14 --> 4164.56] This will be on the screen, I believe. -[4165.68 --> 4168.66] Chapter 9, one-sentence summary, -[4168.90 --> 4171.96] God chooses who he will save through faith in the gospel. -[4172.92 --> 4174.46] Chapter 10, part 1, -[4174.46 --> 4177.82] we humans are responsible for our rejection of him -[4177.82 --> 4180.02] and our disobedience and obstinance. -[4180.58 --> 4181.90] And then chapter 10, part 2, -[4182.38 --> 4185.42] we are used by God to preach the gospel -[4185.42 --> 4187.86] by which people are saved. -[4189.04 --> 4191.04] And so when you stack those things together, -[4191.54 --> 4192.74] the question is, -[4193.00 --> 4197.90] why doesn't God turn Israel's heart to him? -[4199.10 --> 4200.44] Has he abandoned them? -[4201.76 --> 4203.08] That's the heart of the question. -[4203.08 --> 4204.94] Does God reject his people? -[4204.94 --> 4208.92] Given what we have learned about God, -[4209.20 --> 4212.22] that he chooses who he will save by the gospel, -[4212.72 --> 4215.60] why is it that they don't believe? -[4217.10 --> 4218.62] If, as we said before, -[4218.80 --> 4220.18] regeneration precedes faith, -[4220.24 --> 4222.28] and I think we've seen that pretty convincingly -[4222.28 --> 4223.34] in our work together, -[4223.88 --> 4227.48] does someone's, or does Israel's, -[4227.48 --> 4231.52] current unbelief mean that God has rejected them? -[4231.52 --> 4236.84] Does unbelief in this moment mean God's rejection -[4236.84 --> 4239.48] for the rest of our moments? -[4240.72 --> 4241.84] And if not, -[4242.76 --> 4247.76] what might the reason for ongoing hope be? -[4249.74 --> 4251.22] I hope you can begin to see it, right? -[4251.24 --> 4253.20] When we ask the question that way, -[4253.42 --> 4255.12] we're starting to see -[4255.12 --> 4258.72] the kind of existential crisis moment -[4258.72 --> 4259.88] that we're entering into -[4259.88 --> 4261.72] and we're beginning to anticipate -[4261.72 --> 4265.16] the hope that Christian parents have -[4265.16 --> 4266.56] on a day like today -[4266.56 --> 4270.38] when we baptize an infant like Georgia, right? -[4270.40 --> 4271.90] That the promises made today, -[4272.04 --> 4275.50] the promises uttered by God to her and to us, -[4275.84 --> 4277.72] the promises that we make to him, -[4278.02 --> 4279.94] and the promises of parents -[4279.94 --> 4283.12] to our heavenly Father, right? -[4283.12 --> 4288.22] What might be the reason for our hope? -[4289.56 --> 4292.38] That's the question in this text. -[4294.30 --> 4296.56] Now, I really do hope you can see -[4296.56 --> 4298.42] that I'm not exaggerating this case. -[4299.00 --> 4301.52] I'm not trying to make a rhetorical flourish here -[4301.52 --> 4304.36] because that's just good communication, right? -[4304.54 --> 4306.84] The depths of this question, -[4307.06 --> 4308.34] the depths of the anguish, -[4308.62 --> 4310.42] and the emotional realities -[4310.42 --> 4312.68] that we find ourselves are right here. -[4313.12 --> 4317.74] They're this moment, right now, -[4318.88 --> 4320.62] with all the advantages -[4320.62 --> 4322.86] of having received the promises of God, -[4323.56 --> 4326.92] what does it mean when someone rejects him? -[4328.98 --> 4329.12] Right? -[4329.54 --> 4332.92] Did God reject his people? -[4334.70 --> 4336.24] And immediately, right, -[4336.32 --> 4338.50] immediately he gives an answer to that question. -[4339.20 --> 4339.34] Right? -[4339.38 --> 4340.54] Did God reject his people? -[4340.54 --> 4342.42] By no means. -[4343.12 --> 4345.64] And then, all of chapter 11 -[4345.64 --> 4348.98] gives us three reasons -[4348.98 --> 4351.26] why that's not the case. -[4352.52 --> 4353.22] Right? -[4353.30 --> 4355.06] And so, here are those reasons. -[4355.18 --> 4356.58] It's an overview of chapter 11. -[4357.44 --> 4357.72] Right? -[4357.94 --> 4361.62] First, we see that Israel's unbelief isn't total. -[4362.02 --> 4362.24] Right? -[4362.26 --> 4364.68] That there is a remnant who believe -[4364.68 --> 4370.26] and the elect will show themselves eventually. -[4370.82 --> 4374.22] And then, we can see that Israel's stumbling, -[4374.54 --> 4375.36] their rejection, -[4375.82 --> 4376.98] was for the purpose, -[4377.40 --> 4378.38] for God's purpose, -[4378.48 --> 4380.42] of grafting in Gentiles. -[4380.50 --> 4382.76] That's the second part of chapter 11. -[4382.76 --> 4384.38] And then, chapter 3, -[4384.50 --> 4386.32] the third part of chapter 11 -[4386.32 --> 4388.42] says that there will be a point -[4388.42 --> 4390.22] when it is true to say -[4390.22 --> 4394.18] that all of Israel is saved by grace through faith. -[4394.74 --> 4398.18] And that may happen as a mass revival at some point, -[4398.28 --> 4400.08] or what I think is more likely, -[4400.22 --> 4402.10] and we'll get into this next week, -[4402.10 --> 4405.64] is a slower, more developed -[4405.64 --> 4407.62] throughout history kind of thing. -[4409.06 --> 4409.94] But we'll get there. -[4411.16 --> 4413.66] So, if your Bibles are open, -[4414.12 --> 4415.58] and you see chapter 11, -[4415.68 --> 4418.38] you see it has this kind of flow to it. -[4418.42 --> 4419.38] It has this movement. -[4420.04 --> 4420.26] Right? -[4420.30 --> 4421.10] In the first section, -[4421.32 --> 4422.98] Israel's unbelief isn't total. -[4423.14 --> 4424.12] In the second section, -[4424.58 --> 4426.50] we learn that Israel's stumbling -[4426.50 --> 4427.72] was so that Gentiles, -[4427.88 --> 4429.66] that's, I think, all of us here, -[4429.96 --> 4431.22] can be grafted in. -[4431.22 --> 4432.18] But also, -[4432.42 --> 4433.70] that natural branches -[4433.70 --> 4436.18] are more easily grafted back in. -[4436.84 --> 4437.18] And then, -[4437.28 --> 4438.90] in the second part of chapter 11, -[4439.28 --> 4441.46] we see that there is a point -[4441.46 --> 4443.50] where it will be true to say -[4443.50 --> 4447.12] that all Israel is saved by grace through faith. -[4448.20 --> 4449.58] Now, I paint that big picture -[4449.58 --> 4451.52] because it's important to see -[4451.52 --> 4453.26] and anticipate some of your questions, -[4453.40 --> 4455.58] but also to say that this morning, -[4455.78 --> 4457.28] we are focusing on number one. -[4459.08 --> 4459.26] Right? -[4459.26 --> 4461.40] Israel's unbelief isn't total. -[4461.58 --> 4463.86] We'll look at the next two next week. -[4465.48 --> 4468.00] And so, in verses 1 through 10, -[4468.08 --> 4468.98] what we read, -[4469.96 --> 4472.62] we will see three ways, -[4472.68 --> 4474.66] I hope we will see three ways -[4474.66 --> 4478.74] that show how Israel's unbelief isn't total, -[4479.08 --> 4479.84] and therefore, -[4480.38 --> 4482.56] God hasn't rejected His people. -[4482.56 --> 4485.28] We'll see that there is a remnant -[4485.28 --> 4486.28] who currently believe. -[4486.78 --> 4488.60] We will see that grace is still grace -[4488.60 --> 4490.38] and faith is the gift of grace. -[4490.90 --> 4492.70] And we will see the elect -[4492.70 --> 4494.54] will always reveal themselves, -[4494.76 --> 4496.64] even if it takes a lifetime. -[4497.50 --> 4498.68] And so, let's start with number one. -[4500.14 --> 4502.84] One of the ways that we can know -[4502.84 --> 4505.38] that God has not rejected His people -[4505.38 --> 4508.66] is because there is a remnant -[4508.66 --> 4510.70] who believe. -[4512.14 --> 4513.90] Now, remember, right, -[4513.98 --> 4517.16] the question is, -[4517.60 --> 4520.82] did God reject His people, Israel? -[4521.64 --> 4523.54] And Paul's immediate response -[4523.54 --> 4525.40] is, by no means. -[4525.40 --> 4529.04] And then his supporting argument -[4529.04 --> 4532.32] is Paul himself. -[4533.70 --> 4533.82] Right? -[4533.90 --> 4534.64] So, how does he know -[4534.64 --> 4536.00] that God hasn't rejected Israel? -[4536.36 --> 4537.64] Because, he says, -[4537.78 --> 4540.54] I am an Israelite myself. -[4541.38 --> 4543.66] The first proof that Paul uses -[4543.66 --> 4545.76] of God not rejecting Israel -[4545.76 --> 4548.14] is that Paul is an Israelite. -[4548.70 --> 4549.82] I am an Israelite, -[4549.90 --> 4551.34] myself descendant of Abraham -[4551.34 --> 4553.32] from the tribe of Benjamin. -[4553.32 --> 4556.06] If God had rejected all of Israel, -[4556.24 --> 4557.04] how could it be -[4557.04 --> 4558.04] that an Israelite -[4558.04 --> 4558.96] has come to be -[4558.96 --> 4560.26] his chief missionary -[4560.26 --> 4561.52] for the gospel -[4561.52 --> 4562.78] to the Gentiles? -[4563.84 --> 4563.96] Right? -[4564.04 --> 4565.44] Paul is an example -[4565.44 --> 4567.50] of God not rejecting -[4567.50 --> 4568.64] His people. -[4571.30 --> 4571.98] Now, -[4573.04 --> 4574.68] an argument of one -[4574.68 --> 4576.56] doesn't necessarily make -[4576.56 --> 4577.70] an argument for the many. -[4578.88 --> 4579.44] And so, -[4579.74 --> 4582.44] Paul uses Israel's own history -[4582.44 --> 4584.50] as an example. -[4585.84 --> 4587.34] So, he recalls the story -[4587.34 --> 4588.52] of the prophet Elijah. -[4589.24 --> 4590.54] This is a story told -[4590.54 --> 4591.50] in 1 Kings. -[4592.22 --> 4594.86] In 1 Kings 18 and 19, -[4594.86 --> 4596.82] you can read about Elijah -[4596.82 --> 4599.12] who ministered in Israel -[4599.12 --> 4600.60] during a time -[4600.60 --> 4602.44] when King Ahab -[4602.44 --> 4604.32] has married Queen Jezebel -[4604.32 --> 4605.38] and the people -[4605.38 --> 4606.26] have worshipped -[4606.26 --> 4608.00] Baals and Asherahs. -[4608.04 --> 4610.12] These are Canaanite deities, -[4610.50 --> 4611.16] gods, -[4611.50 --> 4613.32] from outside of -[4613.32 --> 4617.98] God's relationship -[4617.98 --> 4618.58] to His people, -[4618.68 --> 4619.24] from the people -[4619.24 --> 4620.40] who lived in the land -[4620.40 --> 4621.80] before them coming. -[4622.02 --> 4622.88] And at this point, -[4623.22 --> 4625.54] there is an incredible amount -[4625.54 --> 4627.12] of idolatry -[4627.12 --> 4628.10] and syncretism -[4628.10 --> 4631.06] of the Israelites' worship. -[4631.18 --> 4632.72] And people are worshipping -[4632.72 --> 4634.00] Baal. -[4634.12 --> 4635.46] In one of the stories, -[4636.40 --> 4639.18] Elijah challenges Ahab -[4639.18 --> 4639.88] and he says, -[4640.28 --> 4642.72] bring 450 prophets of Baal -[4642.72 --> 4646.26] and 400 prophets of Asherah -[4646.26 --> 4648.30] to a mountaintop -[4648.30 --> 4649.52] and we will have -[4649.52 --> 4650.54] a battle of the gods. -[4652.34 --> 4653.36] And then even after -[4653.36 --> 4655.10] that incredible display -[4655.10 --> 4657.04] where the prophets of Baal -[4657.04 --> 4657.82] and Asherah -[4657.82 --> 4659.22] are unable to make -[4659.22 --> 4660.14] their gods move -[4660.14 --> 4660.82] and do anything -[4660.82 --> 4663.30] and Elijah simply prays -[4663.30 --> 4664.50] and fire comes down -[4664.50 --> 4664.94] from heaven. -[4665.02 --> 4665.74] Even after that -[4665.74 --> 4666.72] incredible display, -[4667.20 --> 4668.56] Elijah flees -[4668.56 --> 4669.94] and he goes -[4669.94 --> 4670.80] and he hides -[4670.80 --> 4671.72] on a mountain -[4671.72 --> 4672.96] and hiding on a mountain -[4672.96 --> 4674.26] he cries out to God, -[4674.70 --> 4676.86] I am the only one left. -[4678.06 --> 4679.30] And God speaks to him. -[4679.88 --> 4680.42] God says, -[4681.12 --> 4682.88] I have reserved in Israel -[4682.88 --> 4683.96] 7,000 -[4683.96 --> 4686.42] who have not worshipped Baal. -[4686.42 --> 4689.66] And Paul takes that story -[4689.66 --> 4690.94] from Israel's history -[4690.94 --> 4692.88] and he uses that -[4692.88 --> 4693.88] as a reminder -[4693.88 --> 4695.48] that even though -[4695.48 --> 4696.78] it looks like -[4696.78 --> 4699.34] all Israel has rejected God, -[4699.56 --> 4700.66] there is a remnant -[4700.66 --> 4701.44] of people -[4701.44 --> 4702.28] who believe. -[4703.46 --> 4704.64] Paul is one of them -[4704.64 --> 4705.70] and surely -[4705.70 --> 4706.60] there are others -[4706.60 --> 4707.14] as well. -[4707.84 --> 4708.34] And in fact, -[4708.76 --> 4710.36] we know that this is true -[4710.36 --> 4711.40] because, -[4711.82 --> 4712.54] for example, -[4712.54 --> 4713.68] all of the disciples -[4713.68 --> 4714.22] of Jesus -[4714.22 --> 4716.38] are Jewish. -[4717.40 --> 4717.62] Right? -[4717.68 --> 4718.70] They're from Israel. -[4719.40 --> 4721.14] All of the first Christians -[4721.14 --> 4722.14] in Judea -[4722.14 --> 4723.60] are Jewish. -[4723.84 --> 4725.04] The Jerusalem council -[4725.04 --> 4725.98] that takes place -[4725.98 --> 4727.06] in Acts 15 -[4727.06 --> 4728.12] is run -[4728.12 --> 4729.52] by Jewish church leaders. -[4729.64 --> 4730.72] The head of that council -[4730.72 --> 4731.54] is James, -[4731.66 --> 4732.62] the brother of Jesus -[4732.62 --> 4734.98] who is Jewish. -[4735.76 --> 4735.98] Right? -[4736.02 --> 4737.56] There is a remnant, -[4738.92 --> 4739.90] however small -[4739.90 --> 4740.58] in comparison -[4740.58 --> 4741.40] it may be, -[4741.80 --> 4742.68] who believe. -[4743.62 --> 4744.96] Paul's first point -[4744.96 --> 4746.90] is that not all Israel -[4746.90 --> 4748.26] has rejected God. -[4749.26 --> 4750.64] That not all Israel -[4750.64 --> 4752.42] has rejected the gospel. -[4752.96 --> 4753.38] Therefore, -[4753.72 --> 4754.84] Israel's rejection -[4754.84 --> 4756.18] isn't total. -[4759.20 --> 4759.44] Now, -[4760.24 --> 4762.14] but by way of comparison, -[4762.62 --> 4763.58] and this comparison -[4763.58 --> 4764.92] breaks down eventually, -[4765.08 --> 4765.86] I understand that, -[4765.86 --> 4768.48] but sometimes -[4768.48 --> 4770.40] it can look like -[4770.40 --> 4772.16] or it can feel like -[4772.16 --> 4773.04] Christianity -[4773.04 --> 4774.72] in our society -[4774.72 --> 4775.50] and in our culture -[4775.50 --> 4776.86] is receding. -[4777.46 --> 4778.54] And demographically, -[4778.74 --> 4779.94] it absolutely is. -[4782.02 --> 4782.74] But, -[4782.94 --> 4783.60] it is also -[4783.60 --> 4784.30] more likely, -[4784.58 --> 4784.94] probable, -[4785.24 --> 4786.46] more probable to say, -[4786.58 --> 4787.64] more accurate to say -[4787.64 --> 4790.22] that a cultural Christianity -[4790.22 --> 4791.76] is declining. -[4792.38 --> 4792.50] Right? -[4792.58 --> 4793.92] That Christendom, -[4794.06 --> 4794.82] the reign -[4794.82 --> 4796.32] and presumed priority -[4796.32 --> 4797.68] of Christian ideas -[4797.68 --> 4798.38] and ideals -[4798.38 --> 4799.46] in Western society -[4799.46 --> 4800.66] is receding. -[4801.34 --> 4801.90] But, -[4802.44 --> 4802.66] right, -[4802.72 --> 4803.44] there's always -[4803.44 --> 4805.16] a remnant. -[4806.12 --> 4806.50] In fact, -[4807.28 --> 4808.52] if you have eyes -[4808.52 --> 4809.04] to see -[4809.04 --> 4810.12] and are listening -[4810.12 --> 4811.14] to those stories, -[4811.50 --> 4812.82] what seems really clear -[4812.82 --> 4813.54] is that God -[4813.54 --> 4814.66] is doing something -[4814.66 --> 4815.48] right now -[4815.48 --> 4817.10] in His church. -[4819.42 --> 4819.64] Right? -[4819.64 --> 4821.70] For instance, -[4821.84 --> 4822.58] here's an example. -[4822.98 --> 4823.52] You may have gotten -[4823.52 --> 4826.06] this in your mailboxes -[4826.06 --> 4826.72] if you have one -[4826.72 --> 4827.20] out there. -[4827.96 --> 4829.16] This is from -[4829.16 --> 4830.22] Reframe Ministries. -[4830.36 --> 4831.30] It's a partner agency -[4831.30 --> 4832.60] of the Christian Reformed Church. -[4832.74 --> 4834.06] They do media -[4834.06 --> 4835.96] and publications. -[4837.00 --> 4837.54] If you know -[4837.54 --> 4838.46] the Today book, -[4838.94 --> 4840.26] that's Reframe Media, -[4840.88 --> 4841.44] for instance. -[4841.66 --> 4842.34] But they work -[4842.34 --> 4843.26] around the world. -[4844.24 --> 4845.06] This gentleman -[4845.06 --> 4845.88] on the front, -[4847.94 --> 4849.08] his name is Rajan. -[4849.20 --> 4850.68] He was a Hindu priest -[4850.68 --> 4851.86] who has become -[4851.86 --> 4852.28] a Christian. -[4852.28 --> 4853.28] Christian. -[4853.62 --> 4853.72] Right? -[4853.72 --> 4853.86] Like, -[4853.88 --> 4855.22] God is doing something -[4855.22 --> 4856.70] in the world -[4856.70 --> 4858.22] even when it seems -[4858.22 --> 4859.16] like in places -[4859.16 --> 4859.70] Christianity -[4859.70 --> 4860.96] is receding. -[4861.16 --> 4861.98] But also, -[4863.02 --> 4863.30] right, -[4863.46 --> 4864.48] again, -[4864.58 --> 4865.06] if you have -[4865.06 --> 4866.08] the ears to hear, -[4866.16 --> 4866.56] if you're plugged -[4866.56 --> 4867.26] into these kinds -[4867.26 --> 4868.02] of conversations, -[4868.74 --> 4870.18] recently there was -[4870.18 --> 4871.70] a story that came out -[4871.70 --> 4873.36] about Ayan Hirsi Ali. -[4873.92 --> 4875.34] She was a former, -[4875.54 --> 4876.06] like, -[4876.46 --> 4877.10] militant, -[4877.50 --> 4878.32] new atheist -[4878.32 --> 4879.54] movement person. -[4879.66 --> 4881.24] So she hosted events -[4881.24 --> 4881.92] with the likes of -[4881.92 --> 4882.66] Richard Dawkins -[4882.66 --> 4883.72] and Christopher Hitchens -[4883.72 --> 4886.30] and railed against -[4886.30 --> 4887.94] religion generally -[4887.94 --> 4889.24] and then Islam -[4889.24 --> 4889.92] specifically. -[4891.68 --> 4893.02] She's become a Christian. -[4893.68 --> 4894.68] And that just came out -[4894.68 --> 4895.60] in the last couple weeks. -[4897.00 --> 4897.68] So here's someone -[4897.68 --> 4898.70] who hosted events -[4898.70 --> 4899.60] that was specifically -[4899.60 --> 4901.02] designed to speak -[4901.02 --> 4902.04] against Christianity -[4902.04 --> 4903.14] who's now become -[4903.14 --> 4904.04] a believer. -[4904.62 --> 4904.76] Like, -[4904.76 --> 4905.84] God is clearly -[4905.84 --> 4906.82] doing something -[4906.82 --> 4908.18] in the midst -[4908.18 --> 4908.96] of all of this. -[4909.56 --> 4909.64] Right? -[4909.76 --> 4911.06] God always -[4911.06 --> 4911.94] keeps -[4911.94 --> 4913.20] a remnant. -[4914.40 --> 4914.74] Now, -[4914.78 --> 4915.20] it may come -[4915.20 --> 4916.56] from surprising places, -[4917.00 --> 4918.86] but it's always there. -[4919.78 --> 4920.12] And in fact, -[4920.98 --> 4922.12] part of our -[4922.12 --> 4924.64] confessional identity -[4924.64 --> 4926.38] as Reformed Christians, -[4926.56 --> 4926.68] right, -[4926.70 --> 4927.34] this is a Christian -[4927.34 --> 4928.28] Reformed church, -[4928.82 --> 4930.32] speaks to this truth. -[4931.14 --> 4931.48] So the -[4931.48 --> 4932.46] Belgic Confession -[4932.46 --> 4933.22] is a document -[4933.22 --> 4933.84] that was written -[4933.84 --> 4935.32] in the 16th century -[4935.32 --> 4936.58] to help -[4936.58 --> 4939.08] the rest of the world -[4939.08 --> 4939.94] understand -[4939.94 --> 4940.72] what it means -[4940.72 --> 4941.62] to be Reformed. -[4942.16 --> 4943.44] And in Article 27, -[4944.14 --> 4945.36] which is titled -[4945.36 --> 4947.04] The Holy Catholic Church, -[4947.08 --> 4948.50] it explains this. -[4948.92 --> 4949.44] It says, -[4950.24 --> 4951.56] The church has existed -[4951.56 --> 4952.36] from the beginning -[4952.36 --> 4953.28] of the world, -[4954.08 --> 4955.54] so in the first parents, -[4955.64 --> 4956.28] Adam and Eve, -[4956.28 --> 4957.52] and will last -[4957.52 --> 4958.58] until the end, -[4959.38 --> 4960.00] as appears -[4960.00 --> 4960.82] from the fact -[4960.82 --> 4961.72] that Christ -[4961.72 --> 4963.46] is eternal King -[4963.46 --> 4964.88] who cannot be -[4964.88 --> 4965.88] without subjects. -[4967.08 --> 4968.08] And this holy church -[4968.08 --> 4968.88] is preserved -[4968.88 --> 4969.50] by God -[4969.50 --> 4970.30] against the rage -[4970.30 --> 4970.88] of the world, -[4971.24 --> 4971.80] even though -[4971.80 --> 4972.64] for a time -[4972.64 --> 4973.40] it may appear -[4973.40 --> 4974.16] very small -[4974.16 --> 4975.08] to human eyes -[4975.08 --> 4975.74] as though -[4975.74 --> 4976.82] it were snuffed out. -[4978.76 --> 4978.96] Right, -[4979.00 --> 4979.74] you hear there, -[4979.90 --> 4980.06] right, -[4980.12 --> 4982.04] the promise of God -[4982.04 --> 4983.46] has always been -[4983.46 --> 4984.52] that the church -[4984.52 --> 4985.16] will exist -[4985.16 --> 4985.92] from the beginning -[4985.92 --> 4987.74] until the very end. -[4989.22 --> 4989.44] Right, -[4989.52 --> 4990.62] and there are two reasons -[4990.62 --> 4990.96] why. -[4991.28 --> 4991.62] One, -[4991.88 --> 4992.90] Christ is King. -[4994.12 --> 4994.60] And a king -[4994.60 --> 4995.16] is no king -[4995.16 --> 4995.90] without subjects. -[4996.16 --> 4997.18] He will always -[4997.18 --> 4998.40] have subjects. -[4999.28 --> 5000.36] And a king -[5000.36 --> 5001.44] who is king -[5001.44 --> 5002.74] and has subjects -[5002.74 --> 5004.94] will always be such -[5004.94 --> 5005.44] because, -[5005.96 --> 5007.04] as the confession says, -[5007.22 --> 5008.22] it is preserved -[5008.22 --> 5009.02] by God. -[5009.08 --> 5010.02] The holy church -[5010.02 --> 5010.84] is preserved -[5010.84 --> 5011.44] by God -[5011.44 --> 5012.62] against the rage -[5012.62 --> 5014.28] of the world. -[5014.38 --> 5015.06] And so no matter -[5015.06 --> 5016.54] how small -[5016.54 --> 5017.88] it may look -[5017.88 --> 5018.64] to us -[5018.64 --> 5019.74] here in the moment -[5019.74 --> 5020.62] and on the ground, -[5020.62 --> 5022.38] there is always -[5022.38 --> 5024.56] a remnant. -[5024.68 --> 5025.46] There's always -[5025.46 --> 5027.38] those who -[5027.38 --> 5028.34] truly, -[5029.08 --> 5029.54] genuinely -[5029.54 --> 5030.64] believe. -[5030.64 --> 5035.14] the second point -[5035.14 --> 5037.18] that Paul makes -[5037.18 --> 5039.08] is to show, -[5039.50 --> 5040.42] the point that he makes -[5040.42 --> 5040.96] to show -[5040.96 --> 5042.30] that Israel's unbelief -[5042.30 --> 5043.04] isn't total -[5043.04 --> 5044.24] is that grace -[5044.24 --> 5045.56] is still grace -[5045.56 --> 5046.52] and that faith -[5046.52 --> 5047.50] is the gift -[5047.50 --> 5048.34] of grace. -[5048.48 --> 5048.78] Notice -[5048.78 --> 5049.92] he ends -[5049.92 --> 5050.90] verse 5. -[5051.88 --> 5052.28] He says, -[5052.28 --> 5053.98] there is a remnant -[5053.98 --> 5056.40] chosen by grace. -[5056.94 --> 5057.84] And if by grace -[5057.84 --> 5058.72] then it cannot be -[5058.72 --> 5059.42] based on works. -[5059.68 --> 5060.32] If it were, -[5060.54 --> 5061.78] grace would no longer -[5061.78 --> 5063.38] be grace. -[5064.90 --> 5065.50] But, -[5065.72 --> 5066.50] to his point, -[5066.70 --> 5068.08] grace is still -[5068.08 --> 5069.06] grace. -[5070.26 --> 5070.38] Right? -[5070.52 --> 5071.40] God's choosing -[5071.40 --> 5072.42] is based on -[5072.42 --> 5073.60] his mercy, -[5073.78 --> 5074.60] his grace, -[5075.12 --> 5076.54] God's choosing -[5076.54 --> 5077.10] is based on -[5077.10 --> 5077.84] his grace, -[5078.00 --> 5079.12] not on -[5079.12 --> 5080.16] Israel's -[5080.16 --> 5080.88] rejection. -[5081.12 --> 5081.96] And so hear that, -[5082.04 --> 5082.18] right? -[5082.18 --> 5083.22] As we layer this -[5083.22 --> 5083.58] together, -[5083.86 --> 5084.00] right? -[5084.42 --> 5085.52] Someone's rejection, -[5085.80 --> 5086.74] anyone's rejection, -[5086.92 --> 5087.72] Israel's rejection -[5087.72 --> 5088.72] or your rejection, -[5089.08 --> 5089.74] my rejection, -[5090.16 --> 5090.30] right? -[5090.50 --> 5091.60] Someone's rejection -[5091.60 --> 5093.40] is always -[5093.40 --> 5094.34] overcome -[5094.34 --> 5095.82] by grace. -[5096.30 --> 5097.28] That's what grace -[5097.28 --> 5097.76] does. -[5098.86 --> 5098.98] Right? -[5099.12 --> 5099.50] Grace -[5099.50 --> 5101.26] overcomes -[5101.26 --> 5102.54] our rejection -[5102.54 --> 5103.12] of God. -[5103.22 --> 5104.14] In order for us -[5104.14 --> 5105.54] to have faith, -[5105.70 --> 5106.50] to respond -[5106.50 --> 5107.68] to grace, -[5107.74 --> 5108.60] we must first -[5108.60 --> 5109.88] be regenerated. -[5109.96 --> 5110.68] We must be born -[5110.68 --> 5111.90] again into newness -[5111.90 --> 5112.58] of life. -[5112.58 --> 5114.10] Our heart of stone -[5114.10 --> 5115.28] must be transformed -[5115.28 --> 5116.48] into a heart -[5116.48 --> 5117.04] of flesh. -[5117.36 --> 5118.34] In order for us -[5118.34 --> 5119.20] to be raised -[5119.20 --> 5120.76] from spiritual death -[5120.76 --> 5122.44] into new life -[5122.44 --> 5123.48] with Jesus, -[5123.88 --> 5125.18] we must have -[5125.18 --> 5126.24] our rejection -[5126.24 --> 5126.98] overcome -[5126.98 --> 5128.98] by his grace. -[5130.40 --> 5131.10] And baptism, -[5131.36 --> 5131.68] which we -[5131.68 --> 5132.88] participated and -[5132.88 --> 5133.62] witnessed this morning, -[5133.90 --> 5135.00] is a beautiful -[5135.00 --> 5136.36] symbol of this -[5136.36 --> 5137.76] very action -[5137.76 --> 5138.84] of God. -[5138.84 --> 5138.88] God. -[5138.92 --> 5139.60] It's a symbol -[5139.60 --> 5141.24] of a promised -[5141.24 --> 5141.92] fulfillment -[5141.92 --> 5142.80] of grace -[5142.80 --> 5143.82] offered. -[5145.22 --> 5145.90] One of the reasons -[5145.90 --> 5146.48] that I find -[5146.48 --> 5147.34] infant baptism -[5147.34 --> 5148.78] such a compelling -[5148.78 --> 5149.84] and beautiful -[5149.84 --> 5150.60] symbol -[5150.60 --> 5151.36] and an image -[5151.36 --> 5152.18] of this promise -[5152.18 --> 5153.06] is because -[5153.06 --> 5154.12] very clearly, -[5154.66 --> 5154.82] right, -[5154.90 --> 5156.08] this beautiful baby, -[5156.26 --> 5156.62] Georgia, -[5157.04 --> 5158.52] as beautiful as she is, -[5158.78 --> 5159.36] very clearly, -[5159.52 --> 5160.92] she can't do anything -[5160.92 --> 5162.18] to choose God. -[5162.18 --> 5164.42] In fact, -[5164.46 --> 5165.06] she can barely -[5165.06 --> 5166.14] do anything -[5166.14 --> 5167.52] on her own -[5167.52 --> 5168.04] at all, -[5168.72 --> 5169.38] let alone -[5169.38 --> 5170.94] choose God. -[5175.80 --> 5177.02] But the spiritual -[5177.02 --> 5178.04] reality we all -[5178.04 --> 5178.54] face -[5178.54 --> 5180.10] is that none -[5180.10 --> 5180.70] of us can, -[5181.96 --> 5182.42] that none -[5182.42 --> 5183.80] of us do, -[5184.22 --> 5185.02] none of us -[5185.02 --> 5186.04] apart from -[5186.04 --> 5187.34] his grace. -[5187.52 --> 5188.14] And that's the -[5188.14 --> 5188.86] point, right? -[5189.26 --> 5190.32] Israel's rejection -[5190.32 --> 5191.20] isn't total -[5191.20 --> 5192.30] or isn't final -[5192.30 --> 5193.38] because God -[5193.38 --> 5193.98] is God. -[5194.66 --> 5195.18] And God -[5195.18 --> 5195.78] is gracious. -[5196.66 --> 5197.44] And God's -[5197.44 --> 5197.94] promises -[5197.94 --> 5199.04] remain. -[5201.16 --> 5201.94] Hear this. -[5202.40 --> 5203.30] There is always -[5203.30 --> 5204.48] hope because -[5204.48 --> 5205.40] there is always -[5205.40 --> 5205.86] God. -[5207.16 --> 5208.30] There is always -[5208.30 --> 5209.12] hope because -[5209.12 --> 5210.36] God is always -[5210.36 --> 5210.98] there. -[5210.98 --> 5216.98] because grace -[5216.98 --> 5218.52] is still -[5218.52 --> 5219.58] grace. -[5220.38 --> 5221.34] Because God -[5221.34 --> 5222.78] is God, -[5223.72 --> 5224.62] there is -[5224.62 --> 5225.58] hope. -[5226.62 --> 5227.20] Paul finishes -[5227.20 --> 5227.80] this point, -[5227.88 --> 5228.22] he says -[5228.22 --> 5229.48] in verse 7, -[5230.36 --> 5231.00] what the people -[5231.00 --> 5231.90] of Israel -[5231.90 --> 5232.94] sought so -[5232.94 --> 5233.84] earnestly -[5233.84 --> 5235.06] they did -[5235.06 --> 5235.78] not obtain. -[5236.88 --> 5237.94] Which is another -[5237.94 --> 5238.76] way of saying, -[5238.90 --> 5239.14] right, -[5239.14 --> 5239.90] that no matter -[5239.90 --> 5240.56] how hard -[5240.56 --> 5241.24] you try, -[5241.68 --> 5242.36] it's never -[5242.36 --> 5242.84] enough. -[5244.46 --> 5245.06] It's another -[5245.06 --> 5245.94] way of saying, -[5246.28 --> 5246.76] no matter how -[5246.76 --> 5247.58] much passion -[5247.58 --> 5248.38] or commitment -[5248.38 --> 5249.30] you show, -[5249.98 --> 5250.40] it's never -[5250.40 --> 5250.84] enough. -[5252.12 --> 5252.54] It's another -[5252.54 --> 5252.88] way of saying, -[5252.94 --> 5253.42] no matter how -[5253.42 --> 5254.62] earnestly you -[5254.62 --> 5255.02] seek, -[5255.12 --> 5255.84] no matter how -[5255.84 --> 5258.32] genuinely hard -[5258.32 --> 5259.38] you strive, -[5260.30 --> 5260.88] it's not -[5260.88 --> 5261.30] enough. -[5262.42 --> 5263.42] Your desire, -[5263.86 --> 5264.80] your earnest -[5264.80 --> 5265.94] efforts, -[5266.46 --> 5267.46] cannot do -[5267.46 --> 5268.30] what only -[5268.30 --> 5269.44] God's grace -[5269.44 --> 5270.08] can. -[5271.28 --> 5272.24] Every effort -[5272.24 --> 5273.00] will fall -[5273.00 --> 5273.34] short. -[5275.92 --> 5276.90] But hear -[5276.90 --> 5277.20] this, -[5278.24 --> 5279.04] because that -[5279.04 --> 5279.96] also means -[5279.96 --> 5282.22] that Israel's -[5282.22 --> 5282.92] rejection -[5282.92 --> 5284.12] of God -[5284.12 --> 5284.80] is not -[5284.80 --> 5285.86] necessarily -[5285.86 --> 5287.58] equal to -[5287.58 --> 5288.36] or connected -[5288.36 --> 5289.52] to God's -[5289.52 --> 5289.92] rejection -[5289.92 --> 5290.72] of Israel -[5290.72 --> 5291.32] because -[5291.32 --> 5292.76] His grace -[5292.76 --> 5294.16] is more. -[5294.16 --> 5294.20] more. -[5296.48 --> 5296.76] And we'll -[5296.76 --> 5297.20] return to -[5297.20 --> 5297.68] this idea -[5297.68 --> 5298.52] and flesh -[5298.52 --> 5298.78] it out -[5298.78 --> 5299.24] even more -[5299.24 --> 5300.24] next week. -[5301.80 --> 5302.82] His grace -[5302.82 --> 5304.90] is more. -[5307.48 --> 5307.90] And the -[5307.90 --> 5309.08] third -[5309.08 --> 5310.58] and final -[5310.58 --> 5311.00] point -[5311.00 --> 5312.50] that Paul -[5312.50 --> 5313.24] makes about -[5313.24 --> 5313.98] Israel's -[5313.98 --> 5314.86] rejection -[5314.86 --> 5315.78] not being -[5315.78 --> 5316.26] total -[5316.26 --> 5317.14] is that -[5317.14 --> 5318.58] the elect -[5318.58 --> 5320.16] will always -[5320.16 --> 5321.06] reveal -[5321.06 --> 5321.16] themselves -[5321.16 --> 5321.76] themselves -[5321.76 --> 5323.08] even -[5323.08 --> 5323.74] if it -[5323.74 --> 5324.12] takes -[5324.12 --> 5324.92] a lifetime. -[5326.80 --> 5327.10] Again, -[5327.26 --> 5328.08] verse 7 -[5328.08 --> 5328.46] says, -[5329.54 --> 5329.86] the people -[5329.86 --> 5330.60] of Israel -[5330.60 --> 5333.92] sought -[5333.92 --> 5335.12] so earnestly -[5335.12 --> 5336.00] what the -[5336.00 --> 5336.34] people of -[5336.34 --> 5336.56] Israel -[5336.56 --> 5336.86] sought -[5336.86 --> 5337.52] so earnestly -[5337.52 --> 5338.42] they did -[5338.42 --> 5339.14] not obtain -[5339.14 --> 5339.94] but the -[5339.94 --> 5340.54] elect -[5340.54 --> 5341.14] among -[5341.14 --> 5341.58] them -[5341.58 --> 5342.18] did. -[5343.02 --> 5343.58] The others -[5343.58 --> 5344.02] were hardened. -[5344.76 --> 5345.32] The elect -[5345.32 --> 5346.24] among -[5346.24 --> 5346.64] them -[5346.64 --> 5347.18] did. -[5348.32 --> 5348.70] If you've -[5348.70 --> 5349.06] been in this -[5349.06 --> 5349.52] journey with -[5349.52 --> 5349.76] us, -[5349.84 --> 5350.26] remember -[5350.26 --> 5350.90] that chapter -[5350.90 --> 5351.68] 9 was all -[5351.68 --> 5352.24] about God's -[5352.24 --> 5352.56] sovereign -[5352.56 --> 5353.34] choice. -[5353.48 --> 5354.08] Chapter 9 -[5354.08 --> 5354.78] is Paul's -[5354.78 --> 5355.36] election -[5355.36 --> 5356.18] argument. -[5356.56 --> 5357.68] God foreknew -[5357.68 --> 5360.14] all who -[5360.14 --> 5360.58] would be -[5360.58 --> 5361.06] saved. -[5361.22 --> 5363.08] He foreordained. -[5363.92 --> 5365.06] He purposed -[5365.06 --> 5365.90] it to -[5365.90 --> 5366.32] happen. -[5367.12 --> 5367.66] He made -[5367.66 --> 5368.04] it be. -[5368.14 --> 5368.52] It's more -[5368.52 --> 5369.00] than just -[5369.00 --> 5369.44] he looked -[5369.44 --> 5369.82] into the -[5369.82 --> 5370.22] future -[5370.22 --> 5371.48] about which -[5371.48 --> 5371.80] he was -[5371.80 --> 5372.30] unsure -[5372.30 --> 5373.10] and saw -[5373.10 --> 5373.84] they might -[5373.84 --> 5374.24] and they -[5374.24 --> 5374.52] might -[5374.52 --> 5375.40] and he's -[5375.40 --> 5375.66] kind of -[5375.66 --> 5376.08] surprised. -[5376.22 --> 5376.96] God brings -[5376.96 --> 5377.44] that about. -[5377.56 --> 5377.90] That's what -[5377.90 --> 5378.62] it means. -[5378.62 --> 5380.00] It is one -[5380.00 --> 5380.88] person I -[5380.88 --> 5381.28] read this -[5381.28 --> 5381.92] week summarized -[5381.92 --> 5382.80] that those -[5382.80 --> 5383.46] God has -[5383.46 --> 5384.10] foreknown -[5384.10 --> 5385.28] can't fail -[5385.28 --> 5385.90] to believe. -[5389.48 --> 5390.68] It is -[5390.68 --> 5392.12] irresistible -[5392.12 --> 5393.22] when God -[5393.22 --> 5393.64] moves. -[5397.48 --> 5398.30] But from -[5398.30 --> 5399.00] the perspective -[5399.00 --> 5399.72] of right -[5399.72 --> 5400.26] now, -[5401.14 --> 5402.10] we want -[5402.10 --> 5402.66] to see -[5402.66 --> 5403.56] it right -[5403.56 --> 5403.88] now. -[5403.88 --> 5406.56] and that's -[5406.56 --> 5407.16] not always -[5407.16 --> 5407.50] how it -[5407.50 --> 5407.90] works. -[5409.78 --> 5410.18] Sometimes -[5410.18 --> 5410.94] it takes -[5410.94 --> 5412.16] a lifetime. -[5413.96 --> 5414.62] But again, -[5414.72 --> 5415.12] grace is -[5415.12 --> 5415.70] still grace -[5415.70 --> 5416.34] and God -[5416.34 --> 5416.90] is still -[5416.90 --> 5417.84] God. -[5418.96 --> 5419.22] And so -[5419.22 --> 5420.02] even if -[5420.02 --> 5420.68] it takes -[5420.68 --> 5422.00] a lifetime, -[5423.22 --> 5424.08] God is -[5424.08 --> 5424.96] able to -[5424.96 --> 5425.90] overcome -[5425.90 --> 5427.68] Israel's -[5427.68 --> 5428.30] rejection -[5428.30 --> 5429.36] or our -[5429.36 --> 5430.56] rejection. -[5430.56 --> 5430.68] rejection. -[5435.24 --> 5436.20] So as we -[5436.20 --> 5436.52] pull all -[5436.52 --> 5436.68] this -[5436.68 --> 5437.10] together, -[5439.26 --> 5441.76] let's -[5441.76 --> 5442.30] take this -[5442.30 --> 5444.18] theological -[5444.18 --> 5446.44] truth of -[5446.44 --> 5447.32] Israel and -[5447.32 --> 5448.18] her relationship -[5448.18 --> 5448.80] to God -[5448.80 --> 5449.70] and use -[5449.70 --> 5451.16] that as -[5451.16 --> 5451.94] an analogy -[5451.94 --> 5453.86] for our -[5453.86 --> 5454.48] relationship -[5454.48 --> 5455.10] to God. -[5455.74 --> 5456.12] Right? -[5456.16 --> 5456.44] Because I -[5456.44 --> 5456.80] think that -[5456.80 --> 5457.58] Israel's -[5457.58 --> 5458.12] rejection -[5458.12 --> 5459.34] and God's -[5459.34 --> 5459.82] promise -[5459.82 --> 5460.96] is a -[5460.96 --> 5462.42] good and -[5462.42 --> 5462.80] functional -[5462.80 --> 5463.56] analogy -[5463.56 --> 5464.48] of faith -[5464.48 --> 5465.44] for us. -[5466.42 --> 5466.86] We've already -[5466.86 --> 5467.78] seen part of -[5467.78 --> 5468.50] how and why, -[5468.60 --> 5468.76] right? -[5468.82 --> 5469.14] They had -[5469.14 --> 5470.18] every advantage. -[5471.50 --> 5472.78] They had -[5472.78 --> 5473.90] the prophets -[5473.90 --> 5475.10] and they had -[5475.10 --> 5476.48] the word of -[5476.48 --> 5477.08] God given -[5477.08 --> 5477.58] to them. -[5477.70 --> 5478.06] They had -[5478.06 --> 5478.62] the temple -[5478.62 --> 5479.24] to mark -[5479.24 --> 5480.10] His presence. -[5480.24 --> 5480.54] They had -[5480.54 --> 5481.52] every advantage -[5481.52 --> 5482.34] of covenant -[5482.34 --> 5483.34] belonging. -[5484.82 --> 5485.56] And still, -[5485.72 --> 5486.12] so many -[5486.12 --> 5486.84] seem to -[5486.84 --> 5487.24] have -[5487.24 --> 5488.10] rejected. -[5488.12 --> 5489.60] the same -[5489.60 --> 5490.12] is true -[5490.12 --> 5490.84] for so -[5490.84 --> 5491.16] many -[5491.16 --> 5492.54] who you -[5492.54 --> 5493.32] know and -[5493.32 --> 5493.62] love. -[5495.20 --> 5496.12] Maybe even -[5496.12 --> 5496.66] as you sit -[5496.66 --> 5497.54] here now. -[5498.78 --> 5499.38] Right? -[5499.46 --> 5500.06] That's more -[5500.06 --> 5500.96] your story -[5500.96 --> 5502.02] than one -[5502.02 --> 5502.66] of deep -[5502.66 --> 5503.34] belief -[5503.34 --> 5504.42] and hope. -[5506.10 --> 5506.96] We all -[5506.96 --> 5507.50] know -[5507.50 --> 5508.36] people -[5508.36 --> 5509.10] that we -[5509.10 --> 5509.86] all are -[5509.86 --> 5510.86] sitting in -[5510.86 --> 5511.28] maybe -[5511.28 --> 5512.48] our own -[5512.48 --> 5513.10] rejection. -[5515.20 --> 5515.72] And we -[5515.72 --> 5516.28] want to -[5516.28 --> 5517.02] see right -[5517.02 --> 5518.10] now that -[5518.10 --> 5518.96] rejection -[5518.96 --> 5519.62] overcome. -[5521.14 --> 5521.82] But the -[5521.82 --> 5522.74] hope given -[5522.74 --> 5523.42] here, -[5523.56 --> 5523.76] right, -[5523.80 --> 5524.06] is that -[5524.06 --> 5524.74] even if -[5524.74 --> 5525.12] it takes -[5525.12 --> 5526.00] a lifetime, -[5526.70 --> 5527.70] the chosen -[5527.70 --> 5528.28] of God -[5528.28 --> 5529.30] will reveal -[5529.30 --> 5529.80] themselves. -[5532.20 --> 5532.94] Now here's -[5532.94 --> 5533.26] the hard -[5533.26 --> 5533.58] part, -[5533.66 --> 5533.86] right? -[5534.54 --> 5535.32] Sometimes it -[5535.32 --> 5535.78] takes more -[5535.78 --> 5536.22] than your -[5536.22 --> 5536.84] lifetime -[5536.84 --> 5538.16] for the -[5538.16 --> 5538.48] chosen -[5538.48 --> 5539.56] to reveal -[5539.56 --> 5540.04] themselves. -[5541.32 --> 5542.02] So maybe -[5542.02 --> 5542.50] you don't -[5542.50 --> 5543.10] get to see -[5543.10 --> 5543.34] it, -[5543.34 --> 5543.40] it. -[5545.20 --> 5545.86] But you -[5545.86 --> 5546.40] still pray -[5546.40 --> 5546.68] it. -[5548.92 --> 5549.12] Right? -[5549.16 --> 5549.50] You still -[5549.50 --> 5550.58] plead with -[5550.58 --> 5551.26] God and -[5551.26 --> 5551.90] with people -[5551.90 --> 5552.82] urging them, -[5552.98 --> 5553.52] see this -[5553.52 --> 5553.94] truth. -[5556.54 --> 5557.68] We want to -[5557.68 --> 5558.36] see it right -[5558.36 --> 5559.08] now and we -[5559.08 --> 5560.42] want people to -[5560.42 --> 5562.08] look like they -[5562.08 --> 5563.16] believe and they -[5563.16 --> 5563.60] belong. -[5564.66 --> 5565.24] And so we have -[5565.24 --> 5566.22] sometimes, I think, -[5566.30 --> 5567.16] elevated the -[5567.16 --> 5568.00] looking like -[5568.00 --> 5569.04] without -[5569.04 --> 5571.96] ensuring -[5571.96 --> 5573.14] and praying -[5573.14 --> 5574.02] and working -[5574.02 --> 5574.86] towards -[5574.86 --> 5576.58] the reality -[5576.58 --> 5577.38] of -[5577.38 --> 5578.38] grace -[5578.38 --> 5579.24] still being -[5579.24 --> 5579.72] grace -[5579.72 --> 5580.60] conversion. -[5582.20 --> 5582.74] And so we've -[5582.74 --> 5583.20] accepted -[5583.20 --> 5586.04] something that -[5586.04 --> 5587.18] looks like -[5587.18 --> 5587.98] Christians -[5587.98 --> 5590.18] without calling -[5590.18 --> 5590.72] for -[5590.72 --> 5593.02] being raised -[5593.02 --> 5594.10] out of -[5594.10 --> 5594.90] spiritual death -[5594.90 --> 5596.02] into new -[5596.02 --> 5596.42] life. -[5596.42 --> 5597.56] And yet -[5597.56 --> 5598.10] again, -[5598.60 --> 5599.06] the hope -[5599.06 --> 5599.72] of God -[5599.72 --> 5600.72] is still -[5600.72 --> 5601.40] there because -[5601.40 --> 5602.52] God is -[5602.52 --> 5603.34] greater than -[5603.34 --> 5604.32] our rejection -[5604.32 --> 5604.94] in this -[5604.94 --> 5605.36] moment. -[5606.30 --> 5606.40] Right? -[5606.44 --> 5606.80] God is -[5606.80 --> 5607.80] stronger than -[5607.80 --> 5608.64] my lack -[5608.64 --> 5609.14] of faith. -[5610.96 --> 5611.84] God is -[5611.84 --> 5614.10] more able -[5614.10 --> 5616.08] to overcome -[5616.08 --> 5617.62] my stubbornness. -[5619.06 --> 5620.04] He is -[5620.04 --> 5620.78] able to -[5620.78 --> 5621.58] overwhelm -[5621.58 --> 5622.54] my doubts -[5622.54 --> 5623.86] with His -[5623.86 --> 5624.28] truth. -[5625.40 --> 5625.70] And so -[5625.70 --> 5626.20] that's -[5626.20 --> 5627.18] what we -[5627.18 --> 5627.92] pray. -[5630.36 --> 5631.00] If you -[5631.00 --> 5631.70] have ears -[5631.70 --> 5632.32] to hear -[5632.32 --> 5633.34] this morning, -[5633.90 --> 5634.50] this is -[5634.50 --> 5635.62] exactly what -[5635.62 --> 5636.26] we prayed -[5636.26 --> 5636.96] and how we -[5636.96 --> 5637.66] prayed together -[5637.66 --> 5638.24] on Tuesday -[5638.24 --> 5638.58] night, -[5638.86 --> 5639.42] calling out -[5639.42 --> 5639.84] to God -[5639.84 --> 5640.38] that our -[5640.38 --> 5640.90] sons and -[5640.90 --> 5641.30] our daughters -[5641.30 --> 5641.60] and our -[5641.60 --> 5642.04] brothers and -[5642.04 --> 5642.48] our sisters -[5642.48 --> 5642.82] and our -[5642.82 --> 5643.66] friends and -[5643.66 --> 5644.14] our family -[5644.14 --> 5644.58] members and -[5644.58 --> 5645.28] our co-workers -[5645.28 --> 5646.04] would hear -[5646.04 --> 5646.68] this truth -[5646.68 --> 5647.34] and their -[5647.34 --> 5648.16] rejection of -[5648.16 --> 5648.54] God would -[5648.54 --> 5649.04] be overcome -[5649.04 --> 5649.84] by the -[5649.84 --> 5650.28] power of -[5650.28 --> 5650.54] God's -[5650.54 --> 5650.84] grace. -[5651.88 --> 5652.30] That's what -[5652.30 --> 5652.72] we did -[5652.72 --> 5653.30] and that's -[5653.30 --> 5653.78] what we do -[5653.78 --> 5654.76] and we -[5654.76 --> 5655.54] did so -[5655.54 --> 5656.20] in the -[5656.20 --> 5656.68] sure -[5656.68 --> 5657.82] confidence -[5657.82 --> 5658.86] of who -[5658.86 --> 5659.42] God is. -[5659.50 --> 5659.70] In the -[5659.70 --> 5660.56] sure confidence -[5660.56 --> 5661.20] that God -[5661.20 --> 5662.04] is faithful -[5662.04 --> 5663.06] to His -[5663.06 --> 5663.80] promise. -[5665.18 --> 5665.64] And in the -[5665.64 --> 5666.20] hope that -[5666.20 --> 5667.36] the elect -[5667.36 --> 5668.84] will always -[5668.84 --> 5669.70] reveal -[5669.70 --> 5670.44] themselves. -[5670.88 --> 5671.60] In our -[5671.60 --> 5672.04] prayers -[5672.04 --> 5672.64] together, -[5673.40 --> 5673.78] in our -[5673.78 --> 5674.54] life together, -[5674.86 --> 5675.24] in our -[5675.24 --> 5675.60] preaching -[5675.60 --> 5677.20] here every -[5677.20 --> 5677.86] week, -[5677.86 --> 5679.70] we challenge -[5679.70 --> 5681.38] the rejection -[5681.38 --> 5682.06] of the -[5682.06 --> 5682.48] gospel. -[5683.48 --> 5684.30] We will -[5684.30 --> 5684.76] not sit -[5684.76 --> 5685.44] idle by -[5685.44 --> 5686.62] as that -[5686.62 --> 5687.86] happens in -[5687.86 --> 5688.60] our lives -[5688.60 --> 5688.86] and the -[5688.86 --> 5689.32] lives of -[5689.32 --> 5690.18] people we -[5690.18 --> 5690.50] love. -[5691.18 --> 5691.68] And as we -[5691.68 --> 5692.44] challenge the -[5692.44 --> 5693.70] rejection of -[5693.70 --> 5694.26] the gospel, -[5694.46 --> 5695.16] we will do -[5695.16 --> 5696.40] so in -[5696.40 --> 5697.16] the hope -[5697.16 --> 5698.84] that God -[5698.84 --> 5700.04] is God -[5700.04 --> 5701.24] and that -[5701.24 --> 5702.54] He is -[5702.54 --> 5703.56] gracious. -[5704.26 --> 5704.54] Amen? -[5704.54 --> 5704.64] Amen? -[5705.52 --> 5706.24] Let's pray -[5706.24 --> 5706.58] together. -[5706.58 --> 5713.68] Holy God, -[5714.06 --> 5714.42] Heavenly -[5714.42 --> 5715.38] Father, -[5716.54 --> 5720.22] Your ways -[5720.22 --> 5722.20] are ultimately -[5722.20 --> 5723.48] unfathomable -[5723.48 --> 5724.54] to us. -[5725.52 --> 5726.64] We are -[5726.64 --> 5727.64] unable to -[5727.64 --> 5728.48] see the -[5728.48 --> 5729.88] minutia of -[5729.88 --> 5730.64] Your working -[5730.64 --> 5731.28] in this -[5731.28 --> 5731.66] world. -[5732.66 --> 5733.58] But help -[5733.58 --> 5734.34] us, we -[5734.34 --> 5735.02] pray today, -[5735.16 --> 5735.98] to trust -[5735.98 --> 5736.88] that You -[5736.88 --> 5737.36] are. -[5739.22 --> 5740.16] Help us -[5740.16 --> 5740.66] in our -[5740.66 --> 5741.58] faith today -[5741.58 --> 5743.02] to rest -[5743.02 --> 5743.66] in the -[5743.66 --> 5744.58] assurance that -[5744.58 --> 5745.46] You are -[5745.46 --> 5746.30] God and -[5746.30 --> 5747.20] You alone. -[5750.34 --> 5750.86] And that -[5750.86 --> 5751.54] even if -[5751.54 --> 5752.56] for a -[5752.56 --> 5752.98] moment -[5752.98 --> 5753.82] rejection -[5753.82 --> 5754.60] seems -[5754.60 --> 5755.18] total, -[5755.54 --> 5756.58] You are -[5756.58 --> 5757.94] greater than -[5757.94 --> 5759.08] our rejection. -[5759.64 --> 5760.06] That Your -[5760.06 --> 5761.64] grace is -[5761.64 --> 5762.44] able to -[5762.44 --> 5763.02] overcome -[5763.02 --> 5764.40] even the -[5764.40 --> 5764.78] most -[5764.78 --> 5766.30] disobedient -[5766.30 --> 5766.74] and -[5766.74 --> 5767.58] obstinate -[5767.58 --> 5768.60] people. -[5771.26 --> 5772.54] God, You -[5772.54 --> 5773.64] are so -[5773.64 --> 5774.84] good and -[5774.84 --> 5776.26] we rest -[5776.26 --> 5777.64] in Your -[5777.64 --> 5778.46] promises -[5778.46 --> 5780.04] today. -[5780.74 --> 5781.08] Promises -[5781.08 --> 5782.04] first spoken -[5782.04 --> 5783.16] to Israel, -[5783.40 --> 5784.16] promises that -[5784.16 --> 5785.14] echo now -[5785.14 --> 5785.70] through the -[5785.70 --> 5786.60] generations to -[5786.60 --> 5787.82] us here -[5787.82 --> 5788.52] as Your -[5788.52 --> 5788.92] church. -[5789.48 --> 5790.52] Christ, You -[5790.52 --> 5791.60] are our -[5791.60 --> 5792.40] King and -[5792.40 --> 5792.86] so -[5792.86 --> 5793.60] preserve -[5793.60 --> 5795.70] us in -[5795.70 --> 5796.50] our -[5796.50 --> 5797.28] faith. -[5797.84 --> 5797.96] In -[5797.96 --> 5798.68] Jesus' name -[5798.68 --> 5799.16] we pray. -[5800.00 --> 5800.36] Amen. -[5800.36 --> 5800.42] Amen. -[5800.42 --> 5800.48] Amen. -[5812.98 --> 5813.54] Amen. -[5813.54 --> 5814.74] Amen. -[5814.74 --> 5816.86] Amen. -[5816.86 --> 5817.80] Amen. -[5817.80 --> 5832.62] Church of God, elect and glorious, holy nation, chosen race. -[5832.62 --> 5842.62] Called as all of whom special people, royal priests and heirs of praise. -[5842.62 --> 5853.86] Oh, the purpose of your calling, showed him all his mighty days. -[5853.86 --> 5864.98] Down above the bones of the earth, there is the deeds of glory to me. -[5864.98 --> 5879.02] God has brought you out of darkness into his most marvelous sight. -[5879.02 --> 5889.02] Brought his truth to life within you, turned your brightness into sight. -[5890.14 --> 5900.30] Let your light so shine around you, that your name is glorified. -[5900.30 --> 5912.30] Let your light so shine and glory, that your grace is glorified. -[5912.30 --> 5925.80] Once you were an alien people, strangers to the town of God. -[5925.80 --> 5935.80] Let your light so shine and glory, that your grace is glorified. -[5935.80 --> 5946.98] Let his love flow up to others, let them feel the Father's pain. -[5946.98 --> 5953.98] That their true name is glorified. -[5953.98 --> 5958.98] Let your light so shine. -[5958.98 --> 5971.98] Church of God, elect and holy, be the people we intend. -[5971.98 --> 5984.32] Church of God, each coming, Rahul's a Ger who builds and wird. -[5984.98 --> 5990.98] Church of God, elect and holy, be the people we인�. -[5990.98 --> 5994.98] Church of God, elect and whatever you wish, -[5994.98 --> 5996.94] Church of God, elect and glory, all the people we pay for our effect. -[5996.94 --> 6004.06] God will serve us, let His grace His love be led. -[6015.22 --> 6019.30] God is good and He goes with us. -[6019.58 --> 6024.56] And so receive the blessing of our God for your journey of life and faith ahead. -[6024.56 --> 6030.62] Whatever that might take you into this week, know that God goes with you. -[6031.10 --> 6032.12] And so receive His blessing. -[6033.48 --> 6035.14] God go before you to lead you. -[6035.86 --> 6037.90] God go behind you to protect you. -[6038.38 --> 6040.58] God go beneath you to support you. -[6041.24 --> 6043.72] God go beside you to befriend you. -[6044.14 --> 6045.38] Do not be afraid. -[6045.90 --> 6047.76] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[6047.90 --> 6053.86] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[6054.56 --> 6055.52] Amen. -[6084.56 --> 6085.98] You have sleень and not in my love. -[6086.64 --> 6091.62] You have told me pain for all my sins and my Feather. -[6092.46 --> 6095.88] Even when I struggle to leave. -[6097.98 --> 6102.20] With your precious love who makes every week. -[6102.20 --> 6125.20] I am on my own, I be lost, I am so in my life, and in death, to you Lord, Christ my Lord. -[6125.20 --> 6155.18] I am on my own, I am so in my life, and in death, to you Lord, I am so in my life, and in death, to you Lord, Christ my Lord. -[6155.20 --> 6170.20] I am so in my life, and in death, to you Lord, Christ my Lord. -[6170.20 --> 6172.20] I am so in my life, and in death, to you Lord, Christ my Lord. -[6172.20 --> 6194.20] I am so in my life, and in death, to you Lord, Christ my Lord. -[6194.20 --> 6196.20] I am so in my life, and in death, to you Lord, Christ my Lord. -[6196.20 --> 6200.20] I am so in my life, and in death, to you Lord, Christ my Lord. -[6200.20 --> 6202.20] I am so in my life, and in death, to you Lord, Christ my Lord. -[6202.20 --> 6206.20] I am so in my life, and in death, to you Lord. -[6206.20 --> 6212.20] I am so in my life, and in death, to you Lord, Christ my Lord. -[6212.20 --> 6229.02] Oh, I am not my Lord, but we love, body and soul. -[6229.02 --> 6240.82] Lead my life and in death to you, Lord, I am my Lord. -[6240.82 --> 6251.22] I am not my own, but we love, body and soul. -[6251.22 --> 6264.22] Lead my life and in death to you, Lord, I am my Lord. -[6264.22 --> 6273.22] I am not my own, but we love, body and soul. -[6273.22 --> 6284.22] Lead my life and in death to you, Lord, I am my Lord. -[6284.22 --> 6294.22] I am not my own, but we love, body and soul. -[6294.22 --> 6299.22] Lead my life and in death to you, Lord, I am my Lord. -[6299.22 --> 6305.22] Lead my life and in death to you, Lord, I am my Lord. -[6305.22 --> 6319.22] Lead my life and in death to you, Lord, I am my Lord. -[6319.22 --> 6326.22] Lead my life and in death to you, Lord. -[6326.22 --> 6334.22] Lead my life and in death to you, Lord, I am my Lord. -[6334.22 --> 6363.22] Lead my life and in death to you, Lord, I am my Lord. -[6363.22 --> 6393.20] Thank you. -[6393.22 --> 6423.20] Thank you. -[6423.22 --> 6453.20] Thank you. -[6453.22 --> 6483.20] Thank you. -[6483.22 --> 6485.22] Thank you. -[6513.22 --> 6515.22] Thank you. -[6543.22 --> 6545.22] Thank you. -[6573.22 --> 6575.22] Thank you. -[6603.22 --> 6605.22] Thank you. -[6633.22 --> 6635.22] Thank you. -[6663.22 --> 6665.22] Thank you. -[6693.22 --> 6695.22] Thank you. -[6723.22 --> 6725.22] Thank you. -[6753.22 --> 6755.22] Thank you. -[6783.22 --> 6785.22] Thank you. -[6813.22 --> 6815.22] Thank you. -[6843.22 --> 6845.22] Thank you. -[6873.22 --> 6875.22] Thank you. -[6903.22 --> 6905.22] Thank you. -[6933.22 --> 6935.22] Thank you. -[6935.22 --> 6937.22] Thank you. -[6937.22 --> 6939.22] Thank you. -[6939.22 --> 6941.22] Thank you. diff --git "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 26, 2023_summary.txt" "b/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 26, 2023_summary.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 78a66ced7decbbe38b5ffc386a28fb149d8213a9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 26, 2023_summary.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,173 +0,0 @@ -• Discussion about faith and its relationship to fear and uncertainty -• Reference to the concept of "free fall" in relation to faith -• Invitation for people with questions to speak with Pastor Kevin -• Announcement about an upcoming fellowship event with a sign-up deadline -• Call for donations to a refugee sponsorship program, specifically clothing items for refugees -• Explanation of a community project at Sunridge Gardens -• Invitation to a Christmas worship service at Sunridge on December 2nd -• Request to welcome guests in the morning's worship service -• Reading of Psalms 103, 63, and excerpts from hymns -• Discussion of God's love, praise, and redemption -• Hymn singing and repetitive refrain of "Hallelujah" -• Praise and sacrifice as intertwined aspects of a Jesus follower's life -• Trusting God during difficult times requires letting go and accepting His will -• Psalm 51 references God not delighting in sacrifices or burnt offerings, but accepting a contrite spirit -• Silent prayer and offering of contrite hearts to God -• Worship and praise of God through various prayers and songs -• Isaiah 44 references God's redemption and forgiveness of sin -• The sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross as an expression of God's love and salvation -• Jesus' blood and sacrifice -• The curse of sin and its hold on individuals -• Redemption and freedom from sin through Jesus Christ -• The resurrection of Jesus Christ -• Praise and worship to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit -• The nature of God as three in one (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) -• The gospel message and the hope it brings -• Ministry of missions offering for Wagner Hills -• Recovery program offered by Wagner Hills -• Personal counseling and plans at Wagner Hills -• Addiction and James 5:15 scripture reading -• Discussion of methods to get attention (e.g. bullhorns, signs, sirens) -• Examples of how others try to get attention (teachers, pets) -• Discussion of Malachi's behavior and how God gets our attention -• Explanation that getting someone's attention doesn't always mean yelling or loud noises, but can be done in creative ways -• Introduction to the concept of talking about big ways and little ways God gets our attention -• Upcoming church events: general meeting, tri-soup challenge -• Prayer requests for various individuals: - • Dennis Colkin's health issues - • John Trass's cancer diagnosis - • Teen's mother in palliative care - • Frank Chepkma's passing - • Rose Vida's passing - • Jerry Jansen's granddaughter Christina's lupus diagnosis - • Judy Versteeg's daughter-in-law Nicole's infection - • Rob Alkema's niece Lindsay's funeral -• Prayer for comfort, healing, and blessings -• Prayer for the family of Sy Visser as he continues medical testing with cancer -• Prayer for Christina diagnosed with lupus -• Prayer for Teenie Breed in palliative care -• Condolences and prayer for Lena Checkman's brother, Frank, who passed away suddenly -• Condolences and prayer for Shonda, who passed away from cancer -• Celebration of life prayers for those dealing with recent or former losses -• Opening and reflecting on God's Word in Romans 11 -• Review of the plan to break down a section of Romans into two parts for study -• The importance of preparing one's heart to sing and give glory to God through the doxology -• Reading from Romans 11, verses 11-24, discussing God's plan for Israel and Gentiles -• Paul's ministry as an apostle to the Gentiles, his hope for Israel's salvation, and their potential inclusion in God's plans -• The analogy of the olive tree, comparing believers (both Jewish and Gentile) to branches grafted onto the root of faith, emphasizing dependence on God's kindness and mercy -• The natural branches (Israel) were grafted into a cultivated olive tree, but the question is whether they can be grafted back in -• Paul answers that God did not reject His people, citing God's faithfulness to His promise and humanity's responsibility for rejecting Him -• Israel rejected Jesus as God's son, but God does not reject His people -• Paul gives three reasons why: - • Israel's unbelief is not total; there is always a remnant that will be revealed in the end - • The chosen elect will always reveal themselves - • God's choosing a people was never about physical descendants, but about His own faithfulness to His promise -• Israel's stumble was for the purpose of including Gentiles in God's plan -• Natural descendants are more readily grafted back into God's plan -• At some point, all of Israel will be saved -• Israel's apparent rejection is used by God for his purpose -• God has a plan to bring about salvation through both Jews and Gentiles -• God's purposes in election -• God's sovereignty -• Understanding and challenges related to sovereignty and election -• Foundation of life and purpose being rooted in God's character and sovereignty -• Limitations in understanding God's purposes -• Paul explains the concept of God's purpose and the rejection of Jesus by Israel -• The metaphor of the stone rejected by builders becoming the cornerstone (Jesus) is discussed -• Paul writes in 1 Corinthians that Jesus was a stumbling block for Jews and foolishness for Gentiles, but ultimately brought salvation to the Gentiles due to Israel's transgressions -• The term "Gentiles" refers to non-Jewish nations or people in the Bible -• Paul continues making his point in verse 12, stating that Israel's loss is riches for the Gentiles -• God's purpose in election was to include Gentiles in his salvation -• God's plan from the beginning included saving all nations, not just one -• The Bible promises a son who would undo the curse of sin and bring redemption -• This promise is applied to Jesus Christ as the ultimate ruler with no end -• God's plan for redemption involves filling the earth with knowledge of his glory -• God's plan for gathering people from every nation, tribe, and tongue is part of His original purpose. -• God has a plan from the beginning to the end, with a specific goal in mind. -• He is sovereign over the means and mechanisms of how events unfold. -• This is reflected in the Reformed tradition's understanding of sovereignty and election. -• The mechanism of Israel stumbling over Jesus as Messiah is part of God's sovereign plan of redemption. -• The mechanism by which the gospel spread to the whole world -• God's eternal purpose and the means of working it out in history -• Israel's rejection of Jesus at the time of Paul and its consequences -• The comfort of God's purposes in election, including the salvation of Gentiles -• The sovereignty of God and his plan for Israel's rejection as a mechanism to bring the gospel to Gentiles -• The church is spiritual Israel and the real descendants of Abraham -• God's sovereignty is active in the world through salvation and redemption -• Nations are blessed through Abraham, and the earth is filled with the knowledge and glory of the Lord -• The vision of Revelation involves every tribe, tongue, and nation singing holy songs to the Lamb who was slain -• The mission of God is accomplished through joining him in his purposes in election -• There is still hope for salvation for those who do not yet believe -• Paul's second point is that there is still a reason to have hope for the salvation of someone who doesn't yet believe. -• The Gentile inclusion will now become the mechanism of Israel being awakened to belief. -• Paul hopes his ministry among the Gentiles will somehow arouse his own people to envy and save some of them. -• Israel's rejection was previously used by God to bring salvation to the Gentiles, but now Paul hopes that the Gentile inclusion might be used to bring salvation to the Israelites who first rejected God in Jesus. -• Even their stumbling to believe can be used by God to bring life from spiritual death. -• God can use Israel's rejection of him as a means to bring them back -• God's sovereignty is demonstrated by his ability to turn rejection into acceptance -• God's sovereignty is not limited by human actions, including rejection -• Even outright rejection does not preclude God's purposes being fulfilled -• Personal rejection cannot overrule God's purposes in election -• God's rejection is not a guarantee of eternal separation -• Belief in God can be turned around from rejection -• The possibility that God will accept those who have rejected Him -• Prayer and pleading for God to intercede in the lives of others -• Preaching the gospel as a means of spreading God's message -• The potential for anyone to believe in God, regardless of past actions -• Branches broken off and grafted into the olive tree -• Not superior to others who are part of the same root -• Faith and life should not lead to cockiness or pride -• Christians should be humble and confident in Jesus, but not appear haughty or conceited -• Criticism of Christians for being judgmental or holier-than-thou suggests a lack of humility -• Salvation by grace through faith requires humility -• Confidently living and acting without considering one's identity or responsibility that comes with being chosen. -• Humility and not thinking of oneself more highly than others is essential, as stated in Romans 12. -• Avoiding selfish ambition and conceit, instead valuing others above oneself. -• Considering God's kindness and sternness, as mentioned in verse 22. -• The way of confidence in Jesus and the assurance of salvation is not arrogance but kindness -• God's sovereign love is on, in, and for you -• Continuing to live in his love, kindness, and goodness through following Jesus' example -• Dangers of living for oneself or thinking of oneself as better than others -• Constantly choosing sin over righteousness and relying on one's own doing instead of God -• Doubting God's kindness and its presence in one's life -• Connection between profession/faith and living out faith through actions -• Understanding that following Jesus doesn't guarantee perfection but does lead to growth and development of spiritual qualities such as patience, kindness, and goodness -• Emphasis on the importance of self-control and handling personal struggles -• Discussion of the Holy Spirit's role in making something possible -• Reflection on the nature of God and His sovereignty -• Exaltation of a sovereign God and description of Him as creator and redeemer -• Explanation that nothing can thwart God's purposes, not even human rejection -• Statement that salvation is not dependent on human actions or decisions -• Description of Jesus' life and death as a substitute for humanity's deserved punishment -• Death as a consequence of sin -• The nature of God's plan for salvation -• The role of faith and belief in obtaining righteousness -• The fate of those who reject Jesus' message, specifically the Israelites -• A reference to grafting and being grafted back into God's plan -• Grafting of Israel into God's tree -• Analogy between Israel and people who have rejected faith -• Hope for those who have turned away to be grafted back in -• Sovereignty of God to turn rejection into belief -• Personal examples of needing hope to be true for loved ones -• Prayer and God's sovereignty -• Rejection or standing in rejection -• Church attendance -• Doubts and seeking Jesus -• Sovereignty of God and His purposes in election -• Invitation to come to Jesus for truth, power, hope, and salvation -• Prayer -• Relationship with God -• Sovereignty of God -• Purpose and election -• Worship and praise -• Theology and doctrine transformation -• A prayer or worship service with singing and repetition of "Gloria" -• The power of God's spirit and people saying "amen" -• The truth being found in every mind and page, and faith alone leading to God -• Jesus' name and promises being true and a source of hope -• Gloria (praise) being given to God for redemption and justification through Christ -• Hearts transformed by sin being made new through God's power -• A blessing from God to those present, with prayer and support available -• Repetitive expression of gratitude ("Thank you") -• Reference to "His holy name" at the beginning -• Long period of sustained "thank you"s with no other content \ No newline at end of file diff --git "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 26, 2023_transcript.txt" "b/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 26, 2023_transcript.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index ded9b34104d4e493cb971c2fd8df6531a8503b95..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 26, 2023_transcript.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3476 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 9.78] I'm trying to put it in a song, but I just start to unravel. -[11.04 --> 14.14] Faith is like a free fall sometimes. -[16.66 --> 20.14] I guess I still freak out sometimes. -[23.22 --> 26.22] Faith is like a free fall sometimes. -[30.00 --> 32.64] I guess I still get scared sometimes. -[48.22 --> 51.98] I'm just trying to understand. -[51.98 --> 55.48] Is there some master plan? -[55.48 --> 60.48] Cause I've got so many questions. -[60.48 --> 64.76] Am I, am I the only one? -[64.76 --> 67.48] Is like this ladder's missing rocks? -[67.48 --> 73.48] Cause I can't find a way to climb it. -[73.48 --> 89.40] Step it out onto the water. -[89.40 --> 93.40] I'm not sure if you'll sink or stand. -[93.40 --> 95.40] I think fear's pretty normal. -[95.40 --> 99.40] When you've only ever walked on land. -[99.40 --> 102.40] Cause to leap into the unknown. -[102.40 --> 105.40] Is to walk by faith, not sigh. -[105.40 --> 108.40] We all get scared or we don't know. -[108.40 --> 111.40] But maybe that's alright. -[111.40 --> 114.40] Faith is like a free fall sometimes. -[118.40 --> 121.40] I guess I still freak out sometimes. -[124.40 --> 127.40] Your faith is like a free fall sometimes. -[127.40 --> 128.40] heck, no. -[132.40 --> 133.40] tennis is like a free fall sometimes. -[139.40 --> 140.40] Hooray comes night. -[144.40 --> 146.40] Roay comes night in ST Wing. -[146.40 --> 147.40] The ASL Entertainment -[147.40 --> 148.40] Fen1 Tether -[148.40 --> 149.40] and Nazare. -[149.40 --> 152.40] jeito breaksоч spos -[152.40 --> 157.38] venu -[157.40 --> 165.40] Faith is like a freefall sometimes -[165.40 --> 171.40] I guess you still freak out sometimes -[171.40 --> 177.40] Your faith is like a freefall sometimes -[177.40 --> 183.40] I guess I still get scared sometimes -[183.40 --> 189.40] Maybe that's alright -[213.40 --> 214.52] I guess I still get scared sometimes -[243.40 --> 253.40] What has the ability for women to go on -[253.40 --> 258.40] The hardship of women and women -[258.40 --> 262.56] our gentry -[262.56 --> 292.54] Thank you. -[292.56 --> 322.54] Thank you. -[322.56 --> 352.54] Thank you. -[352.56 --> 382.54] Thank you. -[382.56 --> 412.54] Thank you. -[412.56 --> 442.54] Thank you. -[442.56 --> 472.54] Thank you. -[472.56 --> 502.54] Thank you. -[502.56 --> 515.00] Thank you. -[532.56 --> 562.54] Thank you. -[562.56 --> 592.54] Thank you. -[592.54 --> 593.32] My name is Chris. -[593.52 --> 599.00] I'm one of the pastors here at Emanuel, and it's my privilege, along with these others -[599.00 --> 604.08] and a few who you don't yet see, to lead in our shared worship together this morning. -[604.38 --> 612.62] Before we begin, there are a couple of people, and I'm going to invite Linda and Clem, and -[612.62 --> 615.62] we're going to be here to talk to you. -[615.62 --> 624.16] And as they're making their way up, I just want to remind you to talk to you, and I'm going -[624.16 --> 627.16] and I'm going to be here to talk to you. -[627.16 --> 627.24] And so if you have any questions about that, you can talk to Pastor Kevin. -[627.24 --> 629.16] He will gladly answer them. -[629.16 --> 629.96] Go ahead. -[629.96 --> 639.12] We're going to have a few of the lessons since Tworthy, and we're going to say you're going to do this morning, if we've got OneOnA böyle of 환up? -[639.12 --> 645.02] 630. We are encouraged to bring an appetizer or a dessert. We're looking forward to this -[645.02 --> 650.58] wonderful evening on fellowship. If you haven't signed up, you have an opportunity after church -[650.58 --> 656.90] to sign up at the booth in the back, or you can email on the church bulletin. The deadline -[656.90 --> 663.56] to sign up is tomorrow. We have a tiny problem. It's a wonderful problem. We have 119 women -[663.56 --> 668.64] signed up for this event, so it's going to be a fabulous evening. With that being said, -[668.64 --> 675.68] we might need one or two more table setters. If you would like to be a backup, just in -[675.68 --> 681.88] case we have an influx of registrations, let me know or meet us at the table at the back. -[682.34 --> 689.48] For those who are setting up tables, you have an opportunity to come on Thursday between -[689.48 --> 695.82] 7 and 9 p.m., or we will also be here Friday morning between 10 and 1. If you have any questions, -[695.82 --> 701.40] by all means catch one of us, catch me or one of us in the back at the end of the day. -[701.66 --> 701.96] Thanks. -[706.52 --> 707.22] Good morning. -[707.22 --> 716.58] Some of you may know Dina Nicolai. She is a chaplain and refugee support mobilizer with -[716.58 --> 727.42] CRCs of BC. She's actually helping us with our refugee sponsorship program right now and -[727.42 --> 735.76] facilitating some of that stuff. She also runs a clothing bank at First CRC, Vancouver, and -[735.76 --> 744.46] there are many refugees in that area. And so this year they're running out of clothing and -[744.46 --> 754.90] warm stuff. So she's put out a plea for some items. They're asking for used winter coats and -[754.90 --> 763.60] jackets and rain jackets, all sizes, warm sweaters, adults only, gloves and mittens, all sizes, -[763.60 --> 773.60] socks, all sizes, umbrellas, and scarves. New is an option. So I'm going to try and get it into the -[773.60 --> 781.84] midweek memo and next Sunday. If you could bring it next Sunday, that would be great. Thank you. -[781.84 --> 786.80] Thanks, Clem. -[787.54 --> 789.36] Just one last announcement. -[790.54 --> 797.24] At the first Saturday of every month, we send a team over to Sunridge Gardens up the hill, -[797.36 --> 804.02] which is a seniors and retirement living complex, and we lead an hour worship time together. -[804.02 --> 809.84] That's coming up this Saturday on December 2nd, and it's going to be our Christmas worship time -[809.84 --> 815.80] and celebration. And so we want to encourage you, if you have the opportunity to come and join us at -[815.80 --> 820.96] 2 p.m. on Sunridge for Christmas worship, we can connect with some of the people who live there, -[821.72 --> 827.68] share in song and story together. And so if you have questions about that, you can grab me after the -[827.68 --> 834.90] service or Leslie Kuhl, and she will explain some of that as well. I think that's it for now. So let's -[834.90 --> 841.38] stand together, if you are able, and we can be ushered into the presence of God in our worship. -[843.52 --> 852.62] Receive then God's greeting. Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus -[852.62 --> 859.24] Christ, Son, and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. -[860.00 --> 864.72] I'm going to invite you to turn to those around you and welcome them as guests in our worship this morning. -[882.62 --> 904.34] In Psalm 103 we read, Praise the Lord my soul, all my inmost beings, praise his holy name. -[905.62 --> 912.30] Psalm 63 says, Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. -[912.62 --> 918.76] I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. -[918.76 --> 945.76] Praise the Lord my soul, the King of heaven, to his feet your tribute bring. -[945.76 --> 955.76] Ransomed, healed, restored, forgiven, evermore his praises sing. -[956.76 --> 967.76] Hallelujah, hallelujah, praise the everlasting King. -[967.76 --> 980.76] Praise him for his grace and favor to his people in distress. -[980.76 --> 991.64] Praise him still the same as ever, slow to chide and swift to bless. -[991.64 --> 1002.64] Hallelujah, hallelujah, hallelujah, for us in his faithfulness. -[1002.64 --> 1009.64] Father, my King, he tempts and says, -[1009.64 --> 1015.86] Well, our feet, oh, pray, he knows. -[1015.86 --> 1020.64] In his hands he gently bears us, -[1020.64 --> 1025.64] Rescues us from all our foes. -[1025.64 --> 1037.64] Hallelujah, hallelujah, hallelujah, why we yet his mercy rose. -[1037.64 --> 1046.64] Angels, help us to adore him. -[1046.64 --> 1051.64] You behold him face to face. -[1051.64 --> 1057.64] Sun and moon bow down, we bore him. -[1057.64 --> 1062.64] Dwellers all in time and space. -[1062.64 --> 1075.64] Hallelujah, hallelujah, praise with us the God of grace. -[1075.64 --> 1080.64] Tod Ut员, sing me нам round a bit. -[1080.64 --> 1086.64] komplett to λ 소리 -[1086.64 --> 1088.64] importe où on theıyla -[1088.64 --> 1090.64] constants -[1090.64 --> 1092.06] Iím veinte to dossier -[1092.64 --> 1094.64] Firstly告诉 miss Tam dónde -[1094.64 --> 1095.64] ird ost her -[1096.64 --> 1097.64] concentrar -[1097.64 --> 1098.64] coming -[1098.64 --> 1109.92] May our walls be built in their city -[1109.92 --> 1117.96] May our streets be built in your home -[1120.10 --> 1124.80] May injustice bow to Jesus -[1124.80 --> 1133.80] As the people turn and raise -[1133.80 --> 1138.34] big earth to cri magari -[1138.34 --> 1142.22] But not at all to go -[1142.22 --> 1145.50] In my garden -[1145.50 --> 1152.52] I will use of my earth -[1152.52 --> 1157.46] To the nation's love -[1157.46 --> 1160.30] Hear our singing -[1160.30 --> 1164.14] Fill the air -[1174.20 --> 1179.70] May your light shine in the dark red -[1179.70 --> 1187.70] As we walk before the cross -[1187.70 --> 1194.70] May your glory fill the whole earth -[1194.70 --> 1201.70] And so honor the sea -[1201.70 --> 1205.70] From the mountain -[1205.70 --> 1209.70] To the valley -[1209.70 --> 1212.70] Hear our praise -[1212.70 --> 1217.70] And rise to the earth -[1217.70 --> 1220.70] From the mountain -[1220.70 --> 1225.70] To the nation's love -[1225.70 --> 1227.70] Hear our singing -[1227.70 --> 1233.70] Fill the air -[1233.70 --> 1239.70] Hallelujah -[1239.70 --> 1241.70] Hallelujah -[1241.70 --> 1243.70] Hallelujah -[1243.70 --> 1247.70] Hallelujah -[1247.70 --> 1253.70] Hallelujah -[1253.70 --> 1255.70] Hallelujah -[1255.70 --> 1257.70] Louise -[1257.70 --> 1259.70] Hallelujah -[1259.70 --> 1261.70] Hallelujah -[1261.70 --> 1263.70] Hallelujah -[1263.70 --> 1265.70] Hallelujah -[1265.70 --> 1267.70] Hallelujah -[1267.70 --> 1269.70] Hallelujah -[1269.70 --> 1271.70] Hallelujah -[1271.70 --> 1273.70] Hallelujah -[1273.70 --> 1283.00] Alleluia, Alleluia -[1283.00 --> 1289.06] From the mountain to the valley -[1289.06 --> 1297.86] Near our praises, right to you -[1297.86 --> 1304.86] From the heavens to the nations -[1304.86 --> 1312.86] Near our sea, fill the hand -[1312.86 --> 1319.86] From the mountain to the valley -[1319.86 --> 1326.86] Near our praises, right to you -[1326.86 --> 1333.86] From the heavens to the nations -[1333.86 --> 1341.86] Near our sea, fill the hand -[1341.86 --> 1352.86] You can have a seat. -[1352.86 --> 1357.86] You can have a seat. -[1357.86 --> 1362.86] Those two songs, praise my soul, the king of heaven, and here are praises that we just sang. -[1362.86 --> 1364.86] Focus on praise. -[1364.86 --> 1369.86] In Hebrews 13, verse 15, it says, -[1369.86 --> 1376.86] The terms sacrifice and praise might seem to be opposites. -[1376.86 --> 1383.86] But as a Jesus follower, sacrifice and praise are intertwined in our lives. -[1383.86 --> 1390.86] To praise God during difficult times requires us to let go and trust God, no matter what the future holds. -[1390.86 --> 1397.86] God also accepts our praise even though we are sinful. -[1397.86 --> 1410.86] Psalm 51, verses 16 to 17 talks about this when it says, -[1410.86 --> 1411.86] When it says, -[1411.86 --> 1415.86] You do not delight in sacrifice or I would bring it. -[1415.86 --> 1419.86] You do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. -[1419.86 --> 1423.86] My sacrifice, O God, is a contrite spirit. -[1423.86 --> 1429.86] A broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise. -[1429.86 --> 1436.86] Let us take a few moments this morning to offer our contrite hearts to God in silent prayer. -[1436.86 --> 1437.86] Amen. -[1437.86 --> 1438.86] Amen. -[1438.86 --> 1439.86] Amen. -[1439.86 --> 1440.86] Amen. -[1440.86 --> 1441.86] Amen. -[1441.86 --> 1442.86] Amen. -[1442.86 --> 1443.86] quartoercesty… -[1443.86 --> 1444.86] Anayout あ Nevada… -[1444.86 --> 1446.86] Please take a few moments this morning to witness your spirit based on remembering our 2 household … -[1446.86 --> 1447.86] Lord, that Jesus lost you with you. -[1447.86 --> 1449.86] There are two also you. -[1449.86 --> 1450.86] It has seemed to be true to the dead next morning. -[1450.86 --> 1451.86] Let us Phen BO-" -[1451.86 --> 1452.86] Man, we are rving you to turn with you. -[1452.86 --> 1453.86] Amen. -[1453.86 --> 1454.86] Amen. -[1454.86 --> 1455.86] eches contre war. -[1455.86 --> 1456.86] Amen. -[1456.86 --> 1457.86] Amen. -[1457.86 --> 1458.86] argued for me, 5 family. -[1458.86 --> 1459.86] Amen. -[1459.86 --> 1460.86] Most people want to enter the text… -[1460.86 --> 1461.86] Are you done as my heart. -[1461.86 --> 1462.86] Pay again. -[1462.86 --> 1463.86] My heart has ever believed inую. -[1463.86 --> 1465.86] Well, yes, no matter what we are doing, -[1465.86 --> 1466.86] ChoirsPart, let us park into a deep Communication movement. -[1466.86 --> 1496.84] Thank you. -[1496.86 --> 1511.20] This is my desire to honor you. -[1511.20 --> 1520.86] Lord, with all my heart I worship you. -[1520.86 --> 1536.86] All I have within me, I give you praise. -[1536.86 --> 1548.86] All that I adore is in you. -[1548.86 --> 1558.10] Lord, I give you my heart. -[1558.52 --> 1561.86] I give you my soul. -[1561.86 --> 1568.02] I live for you alone. -[1568.52 --> 1571.86] Every breath that I take. -[1572.48 --> 1576.00] Every moment I'm awake. -[1577.74 --> 1580.72] I'm back your way. -[1580.72 --> 1598.72] This is my desire to honor you. -[1598.72 --> 1608.72] Lord, with all my heart I worship you. -[1608.72 --> 1626.72] All I have within me, I give you praise. -[1626.72 --> 1636.72] All that I adore is in you. -[1636.72 --> 1645.72] Lord, I give you my heart. -[1645.72 --> 1649.72] I give you my soul. -[1649.72 --> 1655.72] I live for you alone. -[1655.72 --> 1658.72] Every breath that I take. -[1658.72 --> 1662.72] And all that I'm awake. -[1662.72 --> 1664.72] I live for you alone. -[1664.72 --> 1669.72] I live for you alone. -[1669.72 --> 1672.72] Lord, I give you my heart. -[1672.72 --> 1673.72] I give you my heart. -[1673.72 --> 1676.72] I give you my soul. -[1676.72 --> 1682.72] I live for you alone. -[1682.72 --> 1685.72] Every breath that I take. -[1685.72 --> 1687.72] Every breath that I pipe. -[1687.72 --> 1691.18] Next and Casey, the Lord is at my word. -[1691.18 --> 1694.14] Every breath that I work. -[1694.14 --> 1699.54] Every breath that I do. -[1699.54 --> 1701.14] Every rest is a Force out of interest. -[1701.14 --> 1704.14] And the heart I need you out of interest. -[1704.52 --> 1707.14] However, all that I do isoro into克服. -[1707.14 --> 1711.14] God's word will respond to you. -[1712.14 --> 1714.18] But the mother I may continue to condemn you by -[1714.18 --> 1715.14] including all of us foodと思います. -[1715.14 --> 1722.06] Hear these assuring words that we read from Isaiah 44, verses 22 to 23. -[1723.20 --> 1724.84] I have made you. -[1725.40 --> 1727.12] You are my servant. -[1728.02 --> 1729.86] Israel, I will not forget you. -[1730.66 --> 1736.42] I have swept away your offenses like a cloud, your sins like the morning mist. -[1737.46 --> 1740.64] Return to me, for I have redeemed you. -[1741.50 --> 1745.10] Sing for joy, you heavens, for the Lord has done this. -[1745.56 --> 1747.72] Shout aloud, you earth beneath. -[1748.20 --> 1750.32] Burst into song, you mountains. -[1750.98 --> 1755.00] You forests and all your trees, for the Lord has redeemed Jacob. -[1755.00 --> 1758.36] He displays his glory in Israel. -[1770.64 --> 1797.66] The sin of man and wrath of God has been on Jesus' name. -[1797.66 --> 1814.80] Silent as he stood, accused, beaten on and scored. -[1814.80 --> 1827.80] Fowing to the Father's den, he took the crown of gold. -[1827.80 --> 1841.90] Oh, that rugged cross, my salvation, where your love poured out over me. -[1842.44 --> 1854.84] Now my soul cries out, Alleluia, praise and honor unto thee. -[1854.84 --> 1884.82] Lord has redeemed you. -[1884.84 --> 1897.84] All the rugged cross, my salvation, where your love poured out over me. -[1897.84 --> 1910.60] Now my soul cries out, Alleluia, praise and honor unto thee. -[1910.60 --> 1921.88] Now my death is great, it is great in full. -[1921.88 --> 1928.78] By the precious blood that my Jesus filled. -[1928.78 --> 1929.78] Now the curse of sin. -[1929.78 --> 1931.78] Now the curse of sin. -[1931.78 --> 1932.10] Now the curse of sin. -[1932.10 --> 1935.46] Has no hold on thee. -[1935.46 --> 1938.62] Whom the Son sets free. -[1938.62 --> 1941.78] Oh, it's free indeed. -[1941.78 --> 1942.78] Now the curse of sin. -[1942.78 --> 1944.78] Now the curse of sin. -[1944.78 --> 1948.78] Now the curse of sin. -[1948.78 --> 1949.78] Has no hold on thee. -[1949.78 --> 1959.78] Now the curse of sin. -[1959.78 --> 1973.78] in -[1982.66 --> 1983.78] oh -[1989.78 --> 1991.78] to thee -[1991.78 --> 1999.92] See the stone -[1999.92 --> 2001.58] is rolled -[2001.58 --> 2003.18] away -[2003.18 --> 2005.90] behold the -[2005.90 --> 2007.32] empty -[2007.32 --> 2009.08] tomb -[2009.08 --> 2011.78] Hallelujah -[2012.54 --> 2013.78] God -[2014.70 --> 2015.32] he -[2015.32 --> 2015.78] raised -[2016.30 --> 2017.78] he raised -[2017.78 --> 2019.44] him from -[2019.44 --> 2021.44] the grave -[2022.30 --> 2023.28] for the -[2023.28 --> 2024.82] love is -[2024.82 --> 2025.36] lost -[2025.36 --> 2027.44] my salvation -[2028.08 --> 2029.60] where your -[2029.60 --> 2031.64] love poured out -[2031.64 --> 2033.44] over me -[2034.66 --> 2035.82] now my -[2035.82 --> 2036.62] soul -[2036.62 --> 2037.92] dies out -[2037.92 --> 2039.44] Hallelujah -[2039.44 --> 2043.12] praise and honor -[2043.12 --> 2045.18] love to -[2045.18 --> 2046.44] me -[2046.44 --> 2048.56] praise and -[2048.56 --> 2049.68] daughter -[2049.68 --> 2052.56] back to me -[2052.56 --> 2054.56] Amen -[2054.56 --> 2056.56] Amen -[2056.56 --> 2058.56] Amen -[2058.56 --> 2060.56] Amen -[2060.56 --> 2062.56] Amen -[2062.56 --> 2064.56] Amen -[2064.56 --> 2066.56] Amen -[2066.56 --> 2068.56] Amen -[2068.56 --> 2070.56] Amen -[2070.56 --> 2072.56] Amen -[2072.56 --> 2074.56] Amen -[2074.56 --> 2076.56] Amen -[2076.56 --> 2077.56] Amen -[2077.56 --> 2078.56] Amen -[2078.56 --> 2081.84] Amen -[2082.56 --> 2082.72] Amen -[2082.72 --> 2088.56] Amen -[2088.56 --> 2092.62] Amen -[2093.02 --> 2095.56] Amen -[2099.56 --> 2100.52] see you -[2100.52 --> 2103.64] without hope without light -[2103.64 --> 2110.68] till from heaven you came right there was mercy in your eyes -[2110.68 --> 2115.64] to fulfill the law and promise to a virgin -[2115.64 --> 2140.12] in the world -[2140.12 --> 2143.60] Three and one -[2143.60 --> 2147.14] God of glory -[2147.14 --> 2149.48] Majesty -[2149.48 --> 2153.36] Praise forever -[2153.36 --> 2155.70] To the King -[2155.70 --> 2157.12] Amen -[2157.12 --> 2164.36] To reveal the kingdom -[2164.36 --> 2168.78] And to exile us -[2168.78 --> 2171.98] To redeem the whole creation -[2171.98 --> 2175.68] You did not despise the cross -[2175.68 --> 2178.68] For even in your son -[2178.68 --> 2182.44] You saw to the other side -[2182.44 --> 2185.54] Knowing this was our salvation -[2185.54 --> 2189.52] Jesus for us if you died -[2189.52 --> 2198.20] Praise the Father -[2198.20 --> 2201.40] Praise the Son -[2201.40 --> 2205.10] Praise the Spirit -[2205.10 --> 2208.10] We in love -[2208.10 --> 2211.90] God of glory -[2211.90 --> 2214.30] Majesty -[2214.30 --> 2218.00] Praise forever -[2218.00 --> 2218.90] Father -[2218.90 --> 2220.20] To the King -[2220.20 --> 2221.20] Of kings -[2221.20 --> 2229.90] In the morning that you rose -[2229.90 --> 2233.54] All of heaven held its breath -[2233.54 --> 2236.20] To let someone's move forward -[2236.20 --> 2239.90] For the lamb had conquered death -[2239.90 --> 2243.10] And the dead rose from their tomb -[2243.10 --> 2246.80] And the angels stood in awe -[2246.80 --> 2249.80] For the souls of all who crown -[2249.80 --> 2253.80] To the Father of his soul -[2253.80 --> 2256.80] And the church of Christ was born -[2256.80 --> 2259.80] And the spirit of faith -[2259.80 --> 2263.00] Now this gospel through the hope -[2263.00 --> 2266.70] Shall all the healing shall not fade -[2266.70 --> 2269.70] By the blood in his name -[2269.70 --> 2273.70] With his freedom I am free -[2273.70 --> 2277.00] For the love of Jesus Christ -[2277.00 --> 2280.70] Who has regimented me -[2280.70 --> 2289.60] Praise the Father -[2289.60 --> 2292.60] Praise the Son -[2292.60 --> 2296.60] Praise the Spirit -[2296.60 --> 2299.50] Three in one -[2299.50 --> 2301.50] God of glory -[2301.50 --> 2303.50] God of glory -[2303.50 --> 2304.50] Gadge of glory -[2304.50 --> 2308.16] Praise the Son -[2308.16 --> 2309.54] Praise the Holy -[2309.54 --> 2310.54] Praise the Son -[2310.54 --> 2311.16] Praise Lord ever -[2311.16 --> 2320.80] Praise the像 -[2324.80 --> 2325.44] Praise the Holy -[2325.44 --> 2326.40] gauge of glory -[2326.40 --> 2326.90] Letnes name -[2326.90 --> 2341.90] God of glory, majesty, praise forever to the King of kings. -[2341.90 --> 2350.90] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[2356.90 --> 2376.90] Hello once again. -[2376.90 --> 2380.90] Okay, the first offering is for the ministry of missions of our church. -[2380.90 --> 2384.90] Special offering this morning is for Wagner Hills. -[2384.90 --> 2394.90] It's a one-year recovery program that offers healing, growth, and transformation to men and women on the road to recovery. -[2394.90 --> 2398.90] Wagner Hills has been doing this for over 40 years now. -[2398.90 --> 2404.90] They have classes, guest speakers, chapel, and group sessions. -[2404.90 --> 2412.90] They have personal counseling and personal plans for each individual. -[2412.90 --> 2420.90] They are setting people up for a new life, a sober life. -[2420.90 --> 2428.90] Addiction can be a baffling thing to most of us, but it's a pretty complicated thing. -[2428.90 --> 2430.90] James 5, 15. -[2430.90 --> 2435.90] And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well. -[2435.90 --> 2438.90] If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. -[2438.90 --> 2440.90] Thank you. -[2440.90 --> 2441.90] Amen. -[2441.90 --> 2442.90] Amen. -[2442.90 --> 2443.90] Amen. -[2443.90 --> 2444.90] Amen. -[2444.90 --> 2445.90] Amen. -[2445.90 --> 2447.90] Amen. -[2475.90 --> 2477.90] Amen. -[2505.90 --> 2507.90] Amen. -[2535.90 --> 2537.90] Amen. -[2565.90 --> 2567.90] Amen. -[2595.90 --> 2597.90] Amen. -[2625.90 --> 2627.90] Amen. -[2627.90 --> 2629.90] Amen. -[2629.90 --> 2631.90] Amen. -[2631.90 --> 2633.90] Amen. -[2633.90 --> 2635.90] Amen. -[2643.90 --> 2645.90] Did you guys hear that? Whoa. -[2645.90 --> 2647.90] Did you guys hear that? -[2647.90 --> 2649.90] Come on up for Kids' Corner. -[2649.90 --> 2651.90] You could barely hear it. -[2651.90 --> 2653.90] Barely hear it. -[2653.90 --> 2655.90] Barely hear it. -[2655.90 --> 2658.98] It's a risky thing to be the bullhorn. -[2662.30 --> 2663.76] Thanks, Pastor Kevin. -[2664.32 --> 2665.68] Did that get your guys' attention? -[2666.88 --> 2667.56] Kind of. -[2667.72 --> 2674.96] Maybe the awkwardness got your attention more so than the delivery of the hat and the sign. -[2674.96 --> 2679.86] We had all kinds of ideas that we thought we'd better not do it because it could get a little out of hand. -[2680.48 --> 2680.64] Huh? -[2681.00 --> 2683.30] What gets your guys' attention sometimes? -[2683.30 --> 2684.50] I didn't see that. -[2685.28 --> 2685.94] You did. -[2686.06 --> 2686.70] Yeah, you saw it. -[2686.82 --> 2688.88] Did you sometimes see bullhorns get used? -[2688.92 --> 2689.86] Does that get your attention? -[2690.72 --> 2690.90] Yeah. -[2690.94 --> 2692.00] What about big signs? -[2693.32 --> 2695.96] What do stores do if they want to get your attention? -[2696.82 --> 2697.62] What do stores do? -[2697.96 --> 2699.28] They look at the self-assurance. -[2699.52 --> 2702.42] Huge signs that are like colorful and crazy. -[2705.30 --> 2705.74] Yeah. -[2705.88 --> 2707.48] They have speakers or big commercials. -[2707.86 --> 2712.02] What about like an ambulance or like a fire truck? -[2712.02 --> 2713.70] What do they do to get your attention? -[2715.20 --> 2716.34] They have sirens. -[2717.06 --> 2719.14] What color are fire trucks usually? -[2719.98 --> 2720.46] Red. -[2720.82 --> 2722.64] They're red so you can really see them. -[2723.02 --> 2729.54] What about, what does your teacher do if she wants or he wants to get your attention? -[2729.54 --> 2731.34] They ring a bell. -[2731.86 --> 2733.48] Oh, they ring a bell. -[2733.60 --> 2733.78] Yep. -[2734.30 --> 2735.12] They ring a bell. -[2735.50 --> 2736.40] They ring a bell. -[2737.00 --> 2738.72] Oh, they command you. -[2738.72 --> 2739.90] They ask you to be quiet. -[2743.46 --> 2745.00] Oh, they ask you to work. -[2745.36 --> 2747.76] What about, what else gets your attention? -[2747.90 --> 2749.28] What about like a telephone? -[2749.44 --> 2750.70] What does it do to get your attention? -[2752.78 --> 2753.66] What do you think, Emma? -[2753.98 --> 2754.82] It rings. -[2755.18 --> 2756.48] That's pretty, that's pretty simple. -[2756.82 --> 2761.18] What about when your dog or your cat wants to get your attention? -[2761.18 --> 2762.42] What does it do? -[2764.54 --> 2767.40] They meow or, or bark. -[2767.58 --> 2769.22] What about, you know what our dog does? -[2769.82 --> 2770.92] It like stares at me. -[2771.76 --> 2773.06] And then like paws at me. -[2773.90 --> 2774.46] Doesn't bark. -[2777.10 --> 2777.68] Woof, woof. -[2777.74 --> 2777.88] Yeah. -[2778.12 --> 2780.52] What about, what do you guys do? -[2780.98 --> 2782.76] Sometimes feel a bit of attention. -[2783.40 --> 2788.18] What if, have you guys done anything creative to get your parents' attention, your mom or dad's attention? -[2788.18 --> 2792.86] Where's your mom or dad, are they busy talking, or they're busy shopping, or they're busy doing chores? -[2793.12 --> 2794.52] What do you guys do to get their attention? -[2798.86 --> 2800.38] Oh, you're just nice to put your back. -[2801.46 --> 2801.78] Exemplary. -[2802.28 --> 2803.00] What about you, Levi? -[2805.80 --> 2807.42] You just say, mommy, mommy, mommy, mommy. -[2807.42 --> 2808.98] You just say, mommy, mommy, mommy, mommy. -[2809.54 --> 2810.56] What do you do, Malachi? -[2811.76 --> 2812.74] You give a hug. -[2812.80 --> 2813.46] That's brilliant. -[2814.36 --> 2815.04] What do you do? -[2816.64 --> 2817.96] Daddy, daddy, daddy, daddy, daddy. -[2818.18 --> 2820.60] You know what I used to do to my mom or dad? -[2820.76 --> 2821.70] They wouldn't respond. -[2821.80 --> 2823.22] They'd be like, mom, mom, mom, dad, dad, dad. -[2823.28 --> 2824.32] Which is me, but a little rude. -[2824.42 --> 2825.80] I was trying to interrupt you now. -[2826.18 --> 2828.58] And then finally, I would say their first name. -[2829.70 --> 2830.02] Jerry. -[2831.26 --> 2831.58] Peter. -[2832.58 --> 2834.16] And then all of a sudden, they look at me. -[2835.06 --> 2836.16] They didn't usually like that, though. -[2836.58 --> 2838.50] So, it's maybe the wrong kind of attention. -[2840.42 --> 2847.30] Anyway, we're going to talk more in Joseph's Worship Time today about different ways God gets our attention. -[2847.30 --> 2850.72] And now he uses creative ways to get our attention. -[2850.92 --> 2852.32] Maybe it's a bullhorn. -[2852.42 --> 2853.32] Maybe it's a silly hat. -[2853.62 --> 2854.72] Maybe it's a big sign. -[2854.90 --> 2856.20] But maybe there's some other cool things. -[2856.64 --> 2857.28] And you know what else? -[2858.24 --> 2863.76] Getting someone's attention doesn't always mean yelling and red signs and sirens and noises. -[2863.76 --> 2866.32] There's other creative things that God has done, right? -[2867.06 --> 2869.86] For instance, look at this beautiful flower. -[2870.88 --> 2872.68] Is it a little bit obnoxious? -[2873.56 --> 2873.82] No. -[2874.40 --> 2875.18] Not at all. -[2875.32 --> 2879.46] It's so little and beautiful and colorful and smells nice. -[2883.38 --> 2884.50] Yes, exactly. -[2884.64 --> 2885.84] It gives attention to itself. -[2885.84 --> 2890.62] So, we're going to talk about the big ways God gets our attention and the little ways God gets our attention. -[2891.06 --> 2894.76] But first, let's do the children's blessing with our church family. -[2894.94 --> 2895.74] Let's stand together. -[2896.42 --> 2897.46] We'll put up our hands. -[2898.86 --> 2900.28] And together, we will say, -[2901.02 --> 2902.58] The Lord be with you. -[2903.12 --> 2904.38] And also with you. -[2904.56 --> 2904.80] All right. -[2904.90 --> 2906.08] See you in children's worship time. -[2906.08 --> 2936.06] All right. -[2936.08 --> 2937.00] Hi there. -[2937.10 --> 2938.42] I'm Eric, an elder here at Emmanuel. -[2939.32 --> 2942.06] Just before I bring us to our word of the family prayer this morning, -[2942.18 --> 2946.20] just to highlight a couple things in the prayer and things upcoming this week. -[2946.62 --> 2952.52] First thing I wanted to highlight was this week, Wednesday of the 29th, we have our general meeting. -[2953.00 --> 2955.80] More importantly, we also have our 6 p.m. start. -[2956.00 --> 2957.70] That's going to be our tri-soup challenge. -[2958.02 --> 2963.42] First of hopefully an annual event where we challenge everyone to bring their tastiest soup -[2963.42 --> 2966.10] and award the top soups in the church. -[2966.10 --> 2972.96] So we're hoping to see a great turnout on the 29th here for both the general meeting and the tri-soup challenge. -[2972.96 --> 2978.36] This week, we learned a few different things of a few different people. -[2978.52 --> 2980.30] Dennis Colkin here, a member of our congregation. -[2980.56 --> 2985.70] He's been in the hospital with his due diagnosis of diabetes and a few other issues they're working with. -[2986.52 --> 2990.22] Former member here of the congregation, father to Ivan Trass, John Trass. -[2990.22 --> 2998.78] He's continuing to deal with the prognosis of cancer and other ailments that continue to go on more testing. -[2999.50 --> 3006.72] Teen even, mother to Brenda, Linda and Jody, has moved into palliative care here in Langley Hospice. -[3007.76 --> 3014.00] This week, Lena Chepkma, brother Frank, passed away this week in Ontario. -[3014.86 --> 3017.86] So we bring that to your attention. -[3017.86 --> 3026.98] Rose Vida, a neighbor and friend, Shonda, was dealing with cancer, has also passed away this week as well. -[3029.22 --> 3034.70] Jerry Jansen, granddaughter Christina, had the diagnosis this week of lupus. -[3035.36 --> 3040.36] And we continue to pray for further tests and results to try to figure out how to deal with that. -[3040.36 --> 3049.90] But this past week, earlier as well, we had Judy Versteeg's daughter-in-law, Nicole, has been dealing with a very serious infection. -[3050.46 --> 3053.54] So we continue for healing and comfort there. -[3055.38 --> 3059.86] Also this week, there were quite a few funerals. -[3059.86 --> 3068.26] The past week, Rob Alkema, niece Lindsay, was late to rest as well in Ontario, and others. -[3068.40 --> 3070.14] But let's turn to our Lord in prayer. -[3070.14 --> 3077.62] Praise be to God and Father, our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, -[3077.92 --> 3085.64] who comforts us in our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any troubles with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. -[3087.12 --> 3091.50] Praise you, Lord, earlier this week that Talal Ajeel became a Canadian citizen. -[3091.50 --> 3098.78] This week, we also learned that Dennis Colkman has been in the hospital, being treated for his diagnosis and other issues. -[3099.30 --> 3102.42] Please comfort him in all the circumstances in his life. -[3103.70 --> 3109.24] This week, Judy Versteeg's daughter-in-law, Nicole, receiving treatment for a very serious infection, -[3109.62 --> 3115.64] blessed the entire family, the extended family, and blessed the doctors and the nurses in all their work. -[3115.64 --> 3122.06] We're also learning with John Trassus' continued ongoing diagnosis and medical testing. -[3122.82 --> 3127.38] Pray for God's rest and healing and comfort for the entire family. -[3128.52 --> 3133.42] Also this week, for Sy Visser, as well as he continues to be in the hospital in Abbotsford, -[3133.98 --> 3137.46] and continues ongoing medical testing as his cancer has come back. -[3138.04 --> 3144.02] As doctors continue to figure out the best treatment options, bless him and his family on this journey. -[3145.64 --> 3152.96] We also pray today for Christina, who has been diagnosed with lupus and continues to go through additional testing. -[3153.32 --> 3155.80] Pray for comfort in the entire family at this time. -[3157.06 --> 3161.48] We pray for Teenie Breed as she has entered palliative care at Landley Hospice, -[3161.98 --> 3164.40] and comfort her and the entire family at this time. -[3166.04 --> 3170.42] This week, we also learned about the sudden passing of Lena Checkman's brother, Frank. -[3170.42 --> 3176.78] Bless the family as they plan a service for this week in Ontario, and bless them in this time. -[3177.34 --> 3180.88] Also this week, Shonda passed away from her battle with cancer. -[3182.30 --> 3184.36] Bless the family and all the loved ones. -[3185.74 --> 3191.00] Lord, this past month, we've had quite a few celebrations of life, -[3191.54 --> 3197.14] and continue to cumber those families who have dealt with either recent or former losses. -[3197.14 --> 3201.04] May God be gracious to us and bless us, -[3201.40 --> 3203.74] and make his face shine upon us, -[3203.80 --> 3206.20] so that your ways may be known to all the earth, -[3206.52 --> 3208.50] your salvation among all the nations. -[3209.34 --> 3211.02] May the people praise you, God. -[3211.36 --> 3212.76] May all the people praise you. -[3213.26 --> 3213.50] Amen. -[3213.50 --> 3213.64] Amen. -[3213.64 --> 3213.70] Amen. -[3227.14 --> 3244.44] We're going to spend some time opening and reflecting on God's Word to us together, -[3244.62 --> 3246.42] and we're going to do that in Romans 11. -[3246.42 --> 3255.92] Now, the original plan for our time together this morning was to finish this next section of Romans 11, -[3256.06 --> 3261.04] getting us up to the doxology in verses 33 through 36. -[3262.68 --> 3265.94] However, in my preparations this past week, -[3265.94 --> 3271.70] it became really clear to me that that was just too much material for one morning together, -[3272.12 --> 3276.56] unless you were prepared to sit for 50 minutes to hear it all, -[3276.94 --> 3278.98] and I wasn't prepared to do that to you. -[3279.98 --> 3282.78] So I've broken this section down into two parts, -[3283.16 --> 3288.30] and we'll do part one today, verses 11 through 24, -[3288.30 --> 3291.98] and then when we return to the book of Romans, -[3292.12 --> 3295.70] which won't be until the new year because we're entering into Advent next week, -[3296.30 --> 3297.90] we'll pick it up at verse 25. -[3299.84 --> 3307.14] Let me also say that I continue to be really grateful for all of your engagements -[3307.14 --> 3310.86] and your feedback, emails, and conversations. -[3311.78 --> 3317.64] I know that many discussions have been carried on over these pages and doctrines, -[3317.64 --> 3321.22] and I know that that is not over. -[3322.56 --> 3329.96] Our section today zeros in on another difficult and disputed passage. -[3331.98 --> 3336.68] And so for the time being, as you can see, our sleeves are still rolled up, -[3337.32 --> 3338.30] we're still digging in, -[3338.88 --> 3344.00] and we're still doing the work that we can to bring our best selves to bear -[3344.00 --> 3345.94] as we dig into God's Word. -[3345.94 --> 3348.34] Before we do that, -[3348.62 --> 3356.12] let me just remind you what we said at the beginning of this really difficult section of Romans. -[3357.48 --> 3362.98] These are some of the hardest and most debated chapters in the Bible, -[3362.98 --> 3366.48] and I know that I have asked a lot of you, -[3366.60 --> 3368.40] that Pastor Kevin has asked a lot of you, -[3368.50 --> 3373.76] and I hope and I pray that it has been as good for you as it has been for me -[3373.76 --> 3375.96] in preparing and in wrestling through that. -[3377.22 --> 3381.36] Second, way back at the beginning of this hard section, -[3381.66 --> 3385.86] I pointed out that Paul ends in worship. -[3385.86 --> 3390.18] And so as we are right now in the middle of this really hard section, -[3390.70 --> 3392.02] let's say that again. -[3392.40 --> 3394.04] When doctrines are tough, -[3394.20 --> 3397.62] and when the mind is beginning to be boggled, -[3397.70 --> 3399.42] or has been boggled for a long time, -[3399.68 --> 3403.98] over these ultimately incomprehensible truths of God, -[3404.08 --> 3406.46] all we can say is, -[3406.46 --> 3409.76] to Him be the glory forever. -[3411.28 --> 3412.66] The point is, -[3412.70 --> 3413.64] I hope you hear, -[3414.04 --> 3419.66] bring your wrestling faith into worship. -[3421.14 --> 3424.00] Bring your faith-seeking understanding -[3424.00 --> 3426.42] to the place of our songs together, -[3427.34 --> 3428.38] and our hymns, -[3428.74 --> 3429.96] and our spiritual songs. -[3429.96 --> 3432.36] It can be really tempting, -[3433.26 --> 3433.56] right, -[3433.60 --> 3436.18] when things get hard to understand, -[3436.38 --> 3438.28] or hard to wrap our minds around, -[3438.62 --> 3442.10] it can be really tempting just to throw our hands up and walk away. -[3443.32 --> 3443.78] Instead, -[3444.28 --> 3445.48] what I hope we can do -[3445.48 --> 3449.00] is lift our hands in worship and prayer together. -[3450.50 --> 3452.84] So after this message, -[3453.02 --> 3454.86] our song of response -[3454.86 --> 3456.56] is going to walk us through -[3456.56 --> 3458.56] some of these doctrines, -[3458.56 --> 3460.06] and some of these truths about God. -[3461.54 --> 3463.96] And so I invite you already now -[3463.96 --> 3466.56] to begin preparing your heart -[3466.56 --> 3468.96] to sing our doxology -[3468.96 --> 3472.56] filled with this theology. -[3473.46 --> 3475.32] To hear the things of God, -[3475.42 --> 3477.16] the mystery and the majesty, -[3477.34 --> 3478.62] the word and the wonder, -[3478.80 --> 3479.72] and to sing, -[3480.52 --> 3481.94] oh, the depths of the riches -[3481.94 --> 3483.76] of the wisdom and knowledge of God, -[3483.76 --> 3485.68] how unsearchable His judgments -[3485.68 --> 3487.88] and His path beyond tracing out, -[3487.88 --> 3490.10] who has known the mind of the Lord, -[3490.18 --> 3491.66] or who has been His counselor. -[3492.12 --> 3493.86] For from Him and through Him -[3493.86 --> 3495.86] and for Him are all things. -[3496.00 --> 3498.28] To Him be the glory forever. -[3499.12 --> 3499.48] Amen. -[3500.82 --> 3501.36] And so, -[3501.72 --> 3503.14] like we said one more time, -[3503.34 --> 3504.62] let's push in -[3504.62 --> 3507.98] so that we give glory to God, -[3508.34 --> 3510.70] a doxology of amens. -[3510.70 --> 3512.48] With that, -[3512.92 --> 3513.72] let's read -[3513.72 --> 3515.48] from Romans 11, -[3516.20 --> 3517.86] chapter 11, -[3517.98 --> 3520.64] verse 11 through 24. -[3521.40 --> 3522.58] The first time through, -[3522.72 --> 3524.26] it will be on the screen behind me. -[3524.78 --> 3525.68] If you have a Bible, -[3525.80 --> 3527.18] I encourage you to keep that with you -[3527.18 --> 3529.86] as we will be working back through it. -[3532.36 --> 3533.60] Again, I ask, -[3534.68 --> 3535.82] did they stumble, -[3536.10 --> 3536.84] this Israel, -[3536.84 --> 3538.38] did they stumble -[3538.38 --> 3541.36] so as to fall beyond recovery? -[3542.04 --> 3542.84] Not at all. -[3543.56 --> 3544.00] Rather, -[3544.72 --> 3546.40] because of their transgression, -[3546.74 --> 3548.86] salvation has come to the Gentiles -[3548.86 --> 3550.56] to make Israel envious. -[3551.60 --> 3553.14] But if their transgression -[3553.14 --> 3554.96] means riches for the world -[3554.96 --> 3557.68] and their loss means riches for the Gentiles, -[3557.76 --> 3559.30] how much greater riches -[3559.30 --> 3561.50] will their full inclusion bring? -[3561.50 --> 3565.60] I am talking to you Gentiles -[3565.60 --> 3568.22] inasmuch as I am an apostle to the Gentiles. -[3568.36 --> 3570.14] I take pride in my ministry -[3570.14 --> 3572.08] in the hope that I may somehow -[3572.08 --> 3574.22] arouse my own people -[3574.22 --> 3576.56] to envy and save some of them. -[3578.22 --> 3579.80] For if their rejection -[3579.80 --> 3581.94] brought reconciliation to the world, -[3582.42 --> 3583.96] what will their acceptance be -[3583.96 --> 3585.04] but life from the dead? -[3585.98 --> 3587.22] If the part of the dough -[3587.22 --> 3588.86] offered as firstfruits is holy, -[3588.98 --> 3590.16] then the whole batch is holy. -[3590.28 --> 3591.32] If the root is holy, -[3591.32 --> 3592.90] so are the branches. -[3594.30 --> 3595.30] If some branches -[3595.30 --> 3596.52] have been broken off -[3596.52 --> 3597.12] and you, -[3597.34 --> 3598.94] though a wild olive shoot, -[3599.04 --> 3600.10] have been grafted in -[3600.10 --> 3601.04] among the others -[3601.04 --> 3602.28] and now share -[3602.28 --> 3603.48] in the nourishing sap -[3603.48 --> 3604.52] from the olive root, -[3604.88 --> 3606.62] do not consider yourself -[3606.62 --> 3607.52] to be superior -[3607.52 --> 3608.92] to those other branches. -[3609.98 --> 3611.06] If you do, -[3612.10 --> 3613.06] consider this. -[3613.58 --> 3614.96] You do not support the root, -[3615.06 --> 3616.52] but the root supports you. -[3617.40 --> 3618.66] You will say then, -[3618.90 --> 3620.12] branches were broken off -[3620.12 --> 3621.58] so that I could be grafted in. -[3622.10 --> 3622.40] Granted, -[3622.72 --> 3623.98] but they were broken off -[3623.98 --> 3625.18] because of unbelief, -[3625.18 --> 3627.62] and you stand by faith. -[3628.84 --> 3629.74] Do not be arrogant, -[3630.52 --> 3631.22] but tremble. -[3631.78 --> 3632.86] For if God did not spare -[3632.86 --> 3633.82] the natural branches, -[3634.08 --> 3636.74] He will not spare you either. -[3638.10 --> 3639.20] Consider, therefore, -[3639.20 --> 3641.92] the kindness and sternness of God. -[3643.52 --> 3644.98] Sternness to those who fell, -[3645.12 --> 3646.68] but kindness to you, -[3647.34 --> 3648.80] provided that you continue -[3648.80 --> 3650.10] in His kindness. -[3651.44 --> 3651.80] Otherwise, -[3652.08 --> 3653.38] you will also be cut off. -[3654.46 --> 3657.08] And if they do not persist in unbelief, -[3657.18 --> 3658.52] they will be grafted in, -[3658.66 --> 3661.42] for God is able to graft them in again. -[3661.42 --> 3662.94] After all, -[3663.06 --> 3664.04] if you were cut out -[3664.04 --> 3665.00] of an olive tree -[3665.00 --> 3666.26] that is wild by nature, -[3666.62 --> 3667.78] and contrary to nature, -[3667.84 --> 3668.68] was grafted into -[3668.68 --> 3670.14] a cultivated olive tree, -[3670.30 --> 3671.52] how much more readily -[3671.52 --> 3673.32] will these natural branches -[3673.32 --> 3674.46] be grafted in -[3674.46 --> 3676.88] to their own olive tree? -[3677.70 --> 3678.90] This is the word of the Lord. -[3683.08 --> 3683.86] Excuse me. -[3685.16 --> 3686.20] So, chapter 11, -[3686.42 --> 3687.36] as we have seen, -[3687.36 --> 3690.46] is an answer to the question, -[3691.06 --> 3694.08] did God reject His people? -[3695.42 --> 3695.56] Right? -[3695.64 --> 3696.26] And Paul, -[3696.44 --> 3697.16] in the midst of this, -[3697.24 --> 3698.98] has revealed his angst -[3698.98 --> 3700.46] and his anxiety -[3700.46 --> 3702.46] over his people, -[3702.60 --> 3703.96] the people of Israel, -[3704.36 --> 3706.00] who, at the time, -[3706.16 --> 3706.56] ignored, -[3707.10 --> 3707.50] rejected, -[3707.80 --> 3709.64] and ultimately crucified -[3709.64 --> 3710.60] Jesus. -[3712.12 --> 3714.04] And he has shown -[3714.04 --> 3716.96] how God's choosing a people -[3716.96 --> 3718.82] was never, in fact, -[3718.96 --> 3720.96] about physical descendants, -[3721.52 --> 3722.56] but, ultimately, -[3722.88 --> 3725.36] always about God's own faithfulness -[3725.36 --> 3727.28] to His own promise. -[3728.12 --> 3728.26] Right? -[3728.32 --> 3729.38] God's own mercy -[3729.38 --> 3730.90] on whom He will have mercy. -[3731.10 --> 3732.08] It's the language we've seen -[3732.08 --> 3733.14] in this section. -[3734.64 --> 3737.24] God then reminds us, -[3737.46 --> 3738.24] through the writing -[3738.24 --> 3739.88] of this chapter, -[3740.06 --> 3741.60] that He is God -[3741.60 --> 3742.70] and we are not. -[3742.76 --> 3744.14] That He is the potter -[3744.14 --> 3745.34] and He can make -[3745.34 --> 3746.56] whatever He will. -[3746.96 --> 3748.64] And throughout all of this, -[3748.74 --> 3748.90] right, -[3748.98 --> 3750.92] two things we have held up -[3750.92 --> 3751.68] as true. -[3752.72 --> 3754.60] That God is faithful -[3754.60 --> 3755.96] to His promise -[3755.96 --> 3757.32] and humanity -[3757.32 --> 3758.86] is responsible -[3758.86 --> 3760.40] for our rejection -[3760.40 --> 3761.74] of God. -[3762.22 --> 3763.84] Israel is responsible -[3763.84 --> 3765.30] for her rejection -[3765.30 --> 3766.62] of God's Messiah, -[3766.74 --> 3767.32] of Jesus, -[3767.60 --> 3769.54] who was preached to her -[3769.54 --> 3771.58] by the apostles. -[3771.58 --> 3773.60] that preached word -[3773.60 --> 3774.42] went out -[3774.42 --> 3775.96] and is going out -[3775.96 --> 3777.00] through the ages -[3777.00 --> 3778.68] right up to this moment -[3778.68 --> 3779.40] right now. -[3779.68 --> 3780.94] We are living -[3780.94 --> 3783.10] in this text. -[3784.10 --> 3785.48] We, here, -[3786.28 --> 3787.24] are being called -[3787.24 --> 3788.08] to profess -[3788.08 --> 3789.58] Jesus is Lord -[3789.58 --> 3791.04] and God raised Him -[3791.04 --> 3792.10] from the dead. -[3792.94 --> 3793.94] But the question -[3793.94 --> 3795.40] that comes out of that, -[3795.48 --> 3796.94] that we're grounded in now, -[3797.04 --> 3798.16] really comes naturally -[3798.16 --> 3798.80] and I think -[3798.80 --> 3800.24] is obviously connected -[3800.24 --> 3800.66] to say, -[3800.66 --> 3801.56] wait a minute, -[3802.40 --> 3803.66] if the people -[3803.66 --> 3804.76] rejected God, -[3805.46 --> 3807.30] does God reject them? -[3808.18 --> 3808.30] Right? -[3808.34 --> 3810.26] If Israel rejected Jesus -[3810.26 --> 3811.36] as God's son, -[3811.76 --> 3812.84] does God -[3812.84 --> 3814.34] reject His people? -[3816.00 --> 3817.64] And Paul's answer -[3817.64 --> 3818.32] is immediate -[3818.32 --> 3819.74] and it is emphatic. -[3819.88 --> 3820.40] He says, -[3820.54 --> 3822.38] by no means. -[3823.42 --> 3823.90] And then, -[3823.98 --> 3825.78] he gives three reasons -[3825.78 --> 3826.54] and I'll recap -[3826.54 --> 3827.26] those reasons -[3827.26 --> 3828.12] for you. -[3828.22 --> 3828.54] First, -[3829.44 --> 3830.80] Israel's unbelief -[3830.80 --> 3831.74] isn't total. -[3832.40 --> 3832.52] Right? -[3832.60 --> 3833.42] There is always -[3833.42 --> 3834.32] a remnant -[3834.32 --> 3835.60] and the elect -[3835.60 --> 3836.86] that is God's chosen -[3836.86 --> 3838.44] will always reveal -[3838.44 --> 3839.66] themselves in the end. -[3840.54 --> 3840.64] Right? -[3840.68 --> 3841.46] That's chapter 11 -[3841.46 --> 3842.58] in the first 10 verses. -[3842.82 --> 3843.56] We looked at that -[3843.56 --> 3844.42] last week. -[3845.88 --> 3847.08] The second reason -[3847.08 --> 3847.62] he gives -[3847.62 --> 3849.36] is that Israel's stumble, -[3849.66 --> 3850.78] that's from verse 11 -[3850.78 --> 3851.44] here, -[3851.64 --> 3852.50] where we started, -[3853.06 --> 3854.18] was for the purpose -[3854.18 --> 3855.50] of the inclusion -[3855.50 --> 3856.70] of the Gentiles -[3856.70 --> 3858.72] and it's important -[3858.72 --> 3859.14] to note -[3859.14 --> 3860.58] that natural descendants -[3860.58 --> 3863.96] or natural trees -[3863.96 --> 3865.04] are more readily -[3865.04 --> 3866.54] grafted back in -[3866.54 --> 3867.50] to the source. -[3868.50 --> 3869.00] And then, -[3869.08 --> 3870.34] the third reason -[3870.34 --> 3871.64] he gives -[3871.64 --> 3873.64] is that at some point -[3873.64 --> 3874.56] all Israel -[3874.56 --> 3875.68] will be saved. -[3876.12 --> 3876.26] Now, -[3876.30 --> 3877.46] Paul says in verse 31, -[3877.72 --> 3878.96] which we didn't read yet, -[3879.42 --> 3880.24] they have become -[3880.24 --> 3881.04] disobedient -[3881.04 --> 3882.22] in order that they too -[3882.22 --> 3883.36] may now receive -[3883.36 --> 3884.98] mercy as a result -[3884.98 --> 3886.10] of God's mercy -[3886.10 --> 3886.94] to you. -[3888.18 --> 3888.56] Now, -[3888.62 --> 3889.56] it's that number two -[3889.56 --> 3890.72] that we're looking -[3890.72 --> 3891.40] at this morning. -[3892.24 --> 3892.36] Right? -[3892.46 --> 3893.86] Number one was last week, -[3893.96 --> 3895.08] number two is today, -[3895.16 --> 3896.18] and then number three -[3896.18 --> 3897.18] that will be -[3897.18 --> 3897.76] in the future. -[3899.16 --> 3899.36] Now, -[3899.48 --> 3902.28] our big idea, -[3902.48 --> 3903.14] our expanding -[3903.14 --> 3904.72] on this number two -[3904.72 --> 3905.24] for us, -[3905.64 --> 3908.42] is that Israel's stumble -[3908.42 --> 3911.78] was for God's purposes. -[3911.78 --> 3913.56] right? -[3913.80 --> 3914.36] One, -[3914.68 --> 3916.46] that people like us -[3916.46 --> 3917.30] might be brought -[3917.30 --> 3918.42] into this plan -[3918.42 --> 3919.14] of salvation, -[3919.82 --> 3920.50] and then two, -[3920.94 --> 3922.36] that by the Gentiles -[3922.36 --> 3923.34] being included, -[3923.76 --> 3925.22] Israel might then -[3925.22 --> 3926.22] in response -[3926.22 --> 3927.16] be turned -[3927.16 --> 3928.28] to belief. -[3929.70 --> 3930.62] And then after making -[3930.62 --> 3931.56] those two points, -[3932.34 --> 3933.54] Paul's going to sum up -[3933.54 --> 3935.06] what he's talking about -[3935.06 --> 3936.02] with some ideas -[3936.02 --> 3937.22] for application. -[3937.22 --> 3937.30] salvation. -[3939.36 --> 3939.56] And so, -[3939.64 --> 3940.20] as we dig into -[3940.20 --> 3941.42] this second reason -[3941.42 --> 3942.30] that Paul gives -[3942.30 --> 3942.78] in response -[3942.78 --> 3943.60] to the question -[3943.60 --> 3947.06] of Israel being rejected, -[3947.40 --> 3948.18] or has Israel -[3948.18 --> 3949.34] being rejected, -[3950.36 --> 3952.30] underneath that -[3952.30 --> 3953.64] is the idea -[3953.64 --> 3955.26] that God -[3955.26 --> 3957.46] has a purpose -[3957.46 --> 3959.14] for even what -[3959.14 --> 3959.58] they're seeing -[3959.58 --> 3960.04] right now. -[3961.04 --> 3961.42] Right? -[3961.42 --> 3963.42] even the apparent -[3963.42 --> 3964.58] rejection -[3964.58 --> 3966.54] of God -[3966.54 --> 3967.80] is used -[3967.80 --> 3968.98] by God -[3968.98 --> 3969.62] for -[3969.62 --> 3970.52] his -[3970.52 --> 3971.48] purpose. -[3973.62 --> 3973.82] Now, -[3973.84 --> 3974.64] if you've been with us -[3974.64 --> 3975.50] in this text, -[3975.58 --> 3977.32] this isn't a new idea -[3977.32 --> 3978.00] for us, -[3978.08 --> 3978.28] right? -[3978.32 --> 3979.36] In chapter 9, -[3980.12 --> 3980.62] Paul -[3980.62 --> 3982.42] uses the illustration -[3982.42 --> 3983.22] of Jacob -[3983.22 --> 3984.28] and Esau. -[3985.44 --> 3985.72] Right? -[3986.08 --> 3986.82] Twins, -[3986.96 --> 3988.04] Esau the older, -[3988.58 --> 3989.68] and by natural -[3989.68 --> 3990.62] birth rights -[3990.62 --> 3991.30] and order, -[3991.46 --> 3992.02] the one who -[3992.02 --> 3993.00] ought to inherit -[3993.00 --> 3993.80] the blessings -[3993.80 --> 3995.16] and the name -[3995.16 --> 3996.98] of their father, -[3998.16 --> 3999.48] but God -[3999.48 --> 4000.34] had other purposes. -[4002.04 --> 4002.74] Paul writes -[4002.74 --> 4004.10] in chapter 9, -[4004.16 --> 4004.68] verse 11, -[4005.42 --> 4006.32] before the twins -[4006.32 --> 4006.88] were born -[4006.88 --> 4007.58] or had done -[4007.58 --> 4008.40] anything good -[4008.40 --> 4008.98] or bad -[4008.98 --> 4009.70] in order -[4009.70 --> 4010.66] that God's -[4010.66 --> 4011.22] purposes -[4011.22 --> 4012.32] in election -[4012.32 --> 4013.38] might stand, -[4013.90 --> 4014.88] not by works, -[4015.24 --> 4015.86] but by him -[4015.86 --> 4016.46] who calls. -[4018.34 --> 4019.36] Point is, -[4019.36 --> 4020.72] God has -[4020.72 --> 4021.54] purposes -[4021.54 --> 4023.48] in election. -[4024.72 --> 4024.96] Now, -[4025.64 --> 4026.18] I want to take -[4026.18 --> 4026.74] just a moment -[4026.74 --> 4027.46] and pause -[4027.46 --> 4028.00] right there. -[4028.64 --> 4029.04] If you have -[4029.04 --> 4029.84] the worship sheet -[4029.84 --> 4030.26] that you got -[4030.26 --> 4031.04] on your way in, -[4031.80 --> 4032.42] you will see -[4032.42 --> 4033.04] that the title -[4033.04 --> 4033.94] of this message -[4033.94 --> 4035.08] is God's -[4035.08 --> 4035.66] sovereignty. -[4036.50 --> 4037.24] You keep -[4037.24 --> 4038.12] using that word. -[4039.24 --> 4039.40] Now, -[4039.58 --> 4040.12] some of you -[4040.12 --> 4040.52] have probably -[4040.52 --> 4041.22] got the -[4041.22 --> 4041.84] implicit -[4041.84 --> 4042.86] princess bride -[4042.86 --> 4043.82] reference in there, -[4043.82 --> 4047.08] but what I'm -[4047.08 --> 4047.80] aware of -[4047.80 --> 4048.46] is that -[4048.46 --> 4049.24] words like -[4049.24 --> 4049.80] sovereignty -[4049.80 --> 4051.08] and election -[4051.08 --> 4052.04] come with -[4052.04 --> 4052.66] a lot of -[4052.66 --> 4053.34] confusion -[4053.34 --> 4055.18] to many of us -[4055.18 --> 4056.08] and they come -[4056.08 --> 4056.42] with a lot -[4056.42 --> 4057.08] of challenges -[4057.08 --> 4058.62] and difficulty -[4058.62 --> 4059.70] in understanding -[4059.70 --> 4060.54] and so -[4060.54 --> 4061.92] I just want to say -[4061.92 --> 4062.62] we keep using -[4062.62 --> 4063.06] that word -[4063.06 --> 4064.52] because the Bible -[4064.52 --> 4065.44] is using that word -[4065.44 --> 4066.38] but also -[4066.38 --> 4067.18] because -[4067.18 --> 4068.28] the sovereignty -[4068.28 --> 4069.22] of God -[4069.22 --> 4071.34] is foundational -[4071.34 --> 4073.26] to God -[4073.26 --> 4073.84] being God. -[4074.86 --> 4075.70] It's foundational -[4075.70 --> 4077.26] to life -[4077.26 --> 4078.46] lived in Him -[4078.46 --> 4079.24] having any -[4079.24 --> 4080.24] meaning or purpose -[4080.24 --> 4082.58] and so -[4082.58 --> 4083.66] when we say -[4083.66 --> 4084.20] things -[4084.20 --> 4085.08] that God -[4085.08 --> 4085.56] does what He -[4085.56 --> 4085.82] does -[4085.82 --> 4086.16] in order that -[4086.16 --> 4086.72] His purposes -[4086.72 --> 4087.36] in election -[4087.36 --> 4088.12] might stand -[4088.12 --> 4089.06] we are grounding -[4089.06 --> 4089.84] ourselves -[4089.84 --> 4090.60] in the very -[4090.60 --> 4091.42] being -[4091.42 --> 4092.56] and character -[4092.56 --> 4093.60] of God -[4093.60 --> 4095.20] who is sovereign -[4095.20 --> 4097.40] and the point -[4097.40 --> 4097.80] is -[4097.80 --> 4098.54] the foundation -[4098.54 --> 4099.18] of this -[4099.18 --> 4099.74] is that -[4099.74 --> 4100.88] God has -[4100.88 --> 4101.92] these purposes -[4101.92 --> 4103.40] now we might -[4103.40 --> 4104.04] not be able -[4104.04 --> 4104.96] to discern them -[4104.96 --> 4106.62] we might not -[4106.62 --> 4107.94] even know them -[4107.94 --> 4109.76] but -[4109.76 --> 4111.42] that's part -[4111.42 --> 4112.20] of what makes -[4112.20 --> 4112.58] God -[4112.58 --> 4113.34] God -[4113.34 --> 4115.56] can I say -[4115.56 --> 4116.88] this boldly -[4116.88 --> 4117.22] to you -[4117.22 --> 4118.42] if you could -[4118.42 --> 4119.04] understand -[4119.04 --> 4119.72] everything -[4119.72 --> 4120.36] that God -[4120.36 --> 4120.82] does -[4120.82 --> 4122.38] He wouldn't -[4122.38 --> 4122.76] be much -[4122.76 --> 4123.30] of a God -[4123.30 --> 4127.28] it's the same -[4127.28 --> 4127.82] thing then -[4127.82 --> 4129.30] with Israel's -[4129.30 --> 4129.72] rejection -[4129.72 --> 4131.00] God -[4131.00 --> 4131.18] God -[4131.18 --> 4131.64] has a -[4131.64 --> 4132.26] purpose -[4132.26 --> 4133.64] for their -[4133.64 --> 4134.32] stumbling -[4134.32 --> 4135.90] let's -[4135.90 --> 4136.58] build on the -[4136.58 --> 4136.84] metaphor -[4136.84 --> 4137.32] that's used -[4137.32 --> 4137.48] here -[4137.48 --> 4138.58] the stone -[4138.58 --> 4138.92] that the -[4138.92 --> 4139.30] builders -[4139.30 --> 4139.74] have -[4139.74 --> 4140.32] rejected -[4140.32 --> 4141.12] has become -[4141.12 --> 4142.10] the cornerstone -[4142.10 --> 4143.20] that stone -[4143.20 --> 4143.78] is -[4143.78 --> 4144.54] Jesus -[4144.54 --> 4145.26] and many -[4145.26 --> 4145.58] of the -[4145.58 --> 4145.92] Israelites -[4145.92 --> 4146.54] of his -[4146.54 --> 4146.88] day -[4146.88 --> 4147.50] rejected -[4147.50 --> 4147.90] him -[4147.90 --> 4149.02] and stumbled -[4149.02 --> 4149.88] over the -[4149.88 --> 4150.40] idea -[4150.40 --> 4151.00] that he -[4151.00 --> 4152.04] was Messiah -[4152.04 --> 4152.56] that he -[4152.56 --> 4153.90] was God -[4153.90 --> 4155.64] in 1 Corinthians -[4155.64 --> 4156.86] 1 Paul -[4156.86 --> 4157.38] writes -[4157.38 --> 4158.08] very clearly -[4158.08 --> 4159.20] we preach -[4159.20 --> 4159.62] Christ -[4159.62 --> 4160.38] crucified -[4160.38 --> 4161.34] a stumbling -[4161.34 --> 4161.92] block -[4161.92 --> 4162.66] to the -[4162.66 --> 4163.16] Jews -[4163.16 --> 4164.50] and foolishness -[4164.50 --> 4164.96] to the -[4164.96 --> 4165.50] Gentiles -[4165.50 --> 4167.76] and yet -[4167.76 --> 4168.58] because of -[4168.58 --> 4169.38] God's purposes -[4169.38 --> 4170.30] in election -[4170.30 --> 4170.88] notice -[4170.88 --> 4171.50] verse 11 -[4171.50 --> 4171.82] we're now -[4171.82 --> 4172.34] back in our -[4172.34 --> 4172.86] text here -[4172.86 --> 4173.56] verse 11 -[4173.56 --> 4175.80] because of -[4175.80 --> 4176.20] their -[4176.20 --> 4177.58] transgressions -[4177.58 --> 4178.56] salvation -[4178.56 --> 4179.42] has come -[4179.42 --> 4179.82] to the -[4179.82 --> 4180.56] Gentiles -[4180.56 --> 4181.38] to make -[4181.38 --> 4182.34] Israel -[4182.34 --> 4184.38] envious -[4184.38 --> 4185.52] so first -[4185.52 --> 4185.80] notice -[4185.80 --> 4186.28] because of -[4186.28 --> 4186.40] their -[4186.40 --> 4187.06] transgressions -[4187.06 --> 4187.62] salvation -[4187.62 --> 4188.38] has come -[4188.38 --> 4189.04] to the -[4189.04 --> 4189.54] Gentiles -[4189.54 --> 4189.74] now -[4189.74 --> 4190.90] Gentiles -[4190.90 --> 4191.32] maybe that's -[4191.32 --> 4191.60] a word -[4191.60 --> 4192.02] you're not -[4192.02 --> 4192.60] familiar with -[4192.60 --> 4193.22] it simply -[4193.22 --> 4194.04] means in -[4194.04 --> 4194.72] the Bible -[4194.72 --> 4195.96] other nations -[4195.96 --> 4196.94] right -[4196.94 --> 4197.46] Gentiles -[4197.46 --> 4197.80] is just -[4197.80 --> 4198.18] the word -[4198.18 --> 4198.46] that the -[4198.46 --> 4198.70] Bible -[4198.70 --> 4199.08] uses -[4199.08 --> 4199.84] for nations -[4199.84 --> 4200.34] for people -[4200.34 --> 4200.66] who are -[4200.66 --> 4201.10] not -[4201.10 --> 4202.18] ethnically -[4202.18 --> 4203.14] Jewish -[4203.14 --> 4204.30] Paul -[4204.30 --> 4204.72] continues -[4204.72 --> 4205.44] making his -[4205.44 --> 4205.72] point -[4205.72 --> 4206.04] in verse -[4206.04 --> 4206.44] 12 -[4206.44 --> 4206.86] he says -[4206.86 --> 4207.74] their loss -[4207.74 --> 4208.22] that is -[4208.22 --> 4208.98] the nation -[4208.98 --> 4209.74] of Israel's -[4209.74 --> 4210.02] loss -[4210.02 --> 4211.04] means riches -[4211.04 --> 4212.50] for the -[4212.50 --> 4213.06] Gentiles -[4213.06 --> 4215.08] now -[4215.08 --> 4217.20] here's what -[4217.20 --> 4217.40] you need -[4217.40 --> 4217.80] to know -[4217.80 --> 4218.62] right -[4218.62 --> 4219.72] from the -[4219.72 --> 4220.14] very -[4220.14 --> 4220.76] beginning -[4220.76 --> 4221.90] from the -[4221.90 --> 4222.20] very -[4222.20 --> 4222.64] beginning -[4222.64 --> 4223.24] God's -[4223.24 --> 4223.98] purpose -[4223.98 --> 4225.14] in election -[4225.14 --> 4225.94] was to -[4225.94 --> 4226.70] include -[4226.70 --> 4227.56] Gentiles -[4227.56 --> 4228.08] in his -[4228.08 --> 4228.60] salvation -[4228.60 --> 4229.62] right -[4229.62 --> 4229.84] and this -[4229.84 --> 4230.24] is clear -[4230.24 --> 4230.68] from the -[4230.68 --> 4231.10] very beginning -[4231.10 --> 4231.82] from God's -[4231.82 --> 4232.62] promise to -[4232.62 --> 4233.12] Adam and -[4233.12 --> 4233.74] Eve to -[4233.74 --> 4234.42] undo the -[4234.42 --> 4234.74] curse -[4234.74 --> 4235.14] with a -[4235.14 --> 4235.46] son -[4235.46 --> 4236.30] who would -[4236.30 --> 4236.78] come and -[4236.78 --> 4237.28] crush the -[4237.28 --> 4237.58] head of -[4237.58 --> 4238.00] the serpent -[4238.00 --> 4238.50] in Genesis -[4238.50 --> 4239.70] 3 15 -[4239.70 --> 4240.32] right -[4240.32 --> 4240.66] this is -[4240.66 --> 4241.04] clear -[4241.04 --> 4241.96] when God -[4241.96 --> 4242.44] says to -[4242.44 --> 4242.90] Abraham -[4242.90 --> 4243.94] that God -[4243.94 --> 4244.36] will make -[4244.36 --> 4244.86] Abraham -[4244.86 --> 4245.54] a great -[4245.54 --> 4245.90] nation -[4245.90 --> 4246.40] that all -[4246.40 --> 4246.92] the nations -[4246.92 --> 4247.24] on the -[4247.24 --> 4247.44] earth -[4247.44 --> 4247.86] will be -[4247.86 --> 4248.32] blessed -[4248.32 --> 4248.92] through -[4248.92 --> 4249.64] him -[4249.64 --> 4250.06] right -[4250.06 --> 4250.72] that God's -[4250.72 --> 4251.36] salvation -[4251.36 --> 4251.86] plan -[4251.86 --> 4252.30] was for -[4252.30 --> 4252.62] the whole -[4252.62 --> 4253.02] world -[4253.02 --> 4253.60] is clear -[4253.60 --> 4254.50] when God -[4254.50 --> 4255.02] promises -[4255.02 --> 4255.66] David -[4255.66 --> 4256.64] an everlasting -[4256.64 --> 4257.34] kingdom -[4257.34 --> 4258.72] that will -[4258.72 --> 4259.18] have no -[4259.18 --> 4259.48] end -[4259.48 --> 4259.76] and then -[4259.76 --> 4260.18] Isaiah -[4260.18 --> 4260.90] takes that -[4260.90 --> 4261.32] promise -[4261.32 --> 4261.86] and he -[4261.86 --> 4262.44] applies it -[4262.44 --> 4262.84] to a -[4262.84 --> 4263.24] son -[4263.24 --> 4263.86] where he -[4263.86 --> 4264.08] says -[4264.08 --> 4264.80] the government -[4264.80 --> 4265.24] will be -[4265.24 --> 4265.66] on his -[4265.66 --> 4266.08] shoulders -[4266.08 --> 4266.90] and of -[4266.90 --> 4267.46] the greatness -[4267.46 --> 4268.00] of his -[4268.00 --> 4268.38] government -[4268.38 --> 4268.96] and peace -[4268.96 --> 4269.42] there will -[4269.42 --> 4270.32] be no -[4270.32 --> 4271.08] end -[4271.08 --> 4271.64] right -[4271.64 --> 4272.24] that God's -[4272.24 --> 4272.72] plan of -[4272.72 --> 4273.20] salvation -[4273.20 --> 4273.80] and redemption -[4273.80 --> 4274.24] was for -[4274.24 --> 4274.56] the whole -[4274.56 --> 4274.90] world -[4274.90 --> 4275.80] is clear -[4275.80 --> 4276.18] in the -[4276.18 --> 4276.60] prophet -[4276.60 --> 4277.46] Habakkuk -[4277.46 --> 4277.90] saying -[4277.90 --> 4278.54] for the -[4278.54 --> 4278.88] earth -[4278.88 --> 4279.24] will be -[4279.24 --> 4279.56] filled -[4279.56 --> 4279.90] with the -[4279.90 --> 4280.24] knowledge -[4280.24 --> 4280.54] of the -[4280.54 --> 4280.84] glory -[4280.84 --> 4281.18] of the -[4281.18 --> 4281.46] Lord -[4281.46 --> 4281.88] as the -[4281.88 --> 4282.32] waters -[4282.32 --> 4282.80] cover -[4282.80 --> 4283.36] the sea -[4283.36 --> 4284.34] right -[4284.34 --> 4284.94] the vision -[4284.94 --> 4285.70] of God -[4285.70 --> 4286.20] that -[4286.20 --> 4286.70] that -[4286.70 --> 4288.08] of God's -[4288.08 --> 4288.58] plan for -[4288.58 --> 4288.98] redemption -[4288.98 --> 4290.10] that culminates -[4290.10 --> 4290.52] for us -[4290.52 --> 4291.00] in the book -[4291.00 --> 4291.70] of Revelation -[4291.70 --> 4292.64] and in the -[4292.64 --> 4293.12] image of -[4293.12 --> 4293.50] Revelation -[4293.50 --> 4294.34] 21 and -[4294.34 --> 4294.72] 22 -[4294.72 --> 4295.68] is of a -[4295.68 --> 4296.12] gathering -[4296.12 --> 4296.92] from every -[4296.92 --> 4297.42] nation -[4297.42 --> 4298.24] tribe -[4298.24 --> 4298.84] and tongue -[4298.84 --> 4300.12] that was -[4300.12 --> 4301.16] always -[4301.16 --> 4302.48] God's -[4302.48 --> 4303.00] plan -[4303.00 --> 4305.32] you could -[4305.32 --> 4305.70] say -[4305.70 --> 4307.40] that is -[4307.40 --> 4307.82] God's -[4307.82 --> 4308.30] purpose -[4308.30 --> 4308.74] in -[4308.74 --> 4309.32] election -[4309.32 --> 4313.58] but not -[4313.58 --> 4314.16] only -[4314.16 --> 4315.54] does God -[4315.54 --> 4316.72] have a -[4316.72 --> 4317.56] plan from -[4317.56 --> 4318.18] the beginning -[4318.18 --> 4319.80] and not -[4319.80 --> 4320.70] only does -[4320.70 --> 4321.48] God have -[4321.48 --> 4322.20] an end -[4322.20 --> 4323.06] in mind -[4323.06 --> 4323.76] a goal -[4323.76 --> 4324.20] to it -[4324.20 --> 4324.56] all -[4324.56 --> 4326.16] right -[4326.16 --> 4326.46] he's -[4326.46 --> 4327.02] also -[4327.02 --> 4327.88] sovereign -[4327.88 --> 4328.98] over this -[4328.98 --> 4329.52] middle bit -[4329.52 --> 4331.30] he's -[4331.30 --> 4331.62] sovereign -[4331.62 --> 4332.20] over the -[4332.20 --> 4332.74] means -[4332.74 --> 4333.26] and the -[4333.26 --> 4333.78] mechanisms -[4333.78 --> 4334.32] of how -[4334.32 --> 4334.60] we go -[4334.60 --> 4335.22] from here -[4335.22 --> 4336.08] to here -[4336.08 --> 4337.84] that's part -[4337.84 --> 4338.10] of what -[4338.10 --> 4338.50] we mean -[4338.50 --> 4338.82] in the -[4338.82 --> 4339.34] reformed -[4339.34 --> 4339.64] tradition -[4339.64 --> 4340.16] when we -[4340.16 --> 4340.52] say -[4340.52 --> 4341.38] quoting -[4341.38 --> 4342.34] Jesus -[4342.34 --> 4342.82] himself -[4342.82 --> 4343.24] and -[4343.24 --> 4344.54] reciting -[4344.54 --> 4344.94] Heidelberg -[4344.94 --> 4345.40] Catechism -[4345.40 --> 4345.92] question and -[4345.92 --> 4346.14] answer -[4346.14 --> 4346.46] one -[4346.46 --> 4347.00] that not -[4347.00 --> 4347.58] a hair -[4347.58 --> 4348.18] can fall -[4348.18 --> 4348.64] from my -[4348.64 --> 4349.04] head -[4349.04 --> 4349.56] without -[4349.56 --> 4350.12] the will -[4350.12 --> 4350.48] of my -[4350.48 --> 4350.76] father -[4350.76 --> 4351.16] in heaven -[4351.16 --> 4353.04] right -[4353.04 --> 4353.24] that's -[4353.24 --> 4353.90] the means -[4353.90 --> 4354.88] and mechanisms -[4354.88 --> 4355.74] action -[4355.74 --> 4356.94] of God's -[4356.94 --> 4357.52] sovereignty -[4357.52 --> 4359.50] and so -[4359.50 --> 4359.94] hear this -[4359.94 --> 4360.28] as we -[4360.28 --> 4360.60] wrestle -[4360.60 --> 4360.96] right -[4360.96 --> 4362.58] a mechanism -[4362.58 --> 4363.98] in that -[4363.98 --> 4364.98] great plan -[4364.98 --> 4365.56] of redemption -[4365.56 --> 4366.26] moving from -[4366.26 --> 4366.92] Genesis all -[4366.92 --> 4367.16] the way -[4367.16 --> 4367.60] through to -[4367.60 --> 4368.16] Revelation -[4368.16 --> 4369.24] a mechanism -[4369.24 --> 4369.96] is that -[4369.96 --> 4370.44] plan -[4370.44 --> 4372.04] is Israel's -[4372.04 --> 4373.44] then current -[4373.44 --> 4374.50] stumbling -[4374.50 --> 4375.74] over Jesus -[4375.74 --> 4376.62] as Messiah -[4376.62 --> 4378.58] Israel -[4378.58 --> 4379.28] stumbling -[4379.28 --> 4380.22] over Jesus -[4380.22 --> 4381.12] as God -[4381.12 --> 4381.58] is a -[4381.58 --> 4382.32] mechanism -[4382.32 --> 4383.64] in God's -[4383.64 --> 4383.92] sovereign -[4383.92 --> 4384.32] plan -[4384.32 --> 4385.20] of redemption -[4385.20 --> 4386.92] let me -[4386.92 --> 4387.22] say that -[4387.22 --> 4387.44] again -[4387.44 --> 4388.82] the purpose -[4388.82 --> 4390.40] of God -[4390.40 --> 4391.24] that God -[4391.24 --> 4391.82] has for -[4391.82 --> 4392.38] Israel's -[4392.38 --> 4392.78] rejection -[4392.78 --> 4393.24] of his -[4393.24 --> 4393.54] son -[4393.54 --> 4394.24] Jesus -[4394.24 --> 4395.30] was that -[4395.30 --> 4395.68] their -[4395.68 --> 4396.30] stumbling -[4396.30 --> 4396.96] over the -[4396.96 --> 4397.78] cornerstone -[4397.78 --> 4398.32] would be -[4398.32 --> 4398.94] the mechanism -[4398.94 --> 4399.72] by which -[4399.72 --> 4400.82] the promise -[4400.82 --> 4401.24] of the -[4401.24 --> 4401.54] gospel -[4401.54 --> 4402.04] went out -[4402.04 --> 4402.30] to the -[4402.30 --> 4402.84] whole world -[4402.84 --> 4404.60] God -[4404.60 --> 4405.50] had an -[4405.50 --> 4405.94] eternal -[4405.94 --> 4406.74] purpose -[4406.74 --> 4407.42] and the -[4407.42 --> 4408.08] means of -[4408.08 --> 4408.74] that purpose -[4408.74 --> 4409.34] being worked -[4409.34 --> 4409.80] out in -[4409.80 --> 4410.48] history -[4410.48 --> 4412.06] includes -[4412.06 --> 4413.22] Israel's -[4413.22 --> 4413.76] rejection -[4413.76 --> 4414.50] of Jesus -[4414.50 --> 4414.92] at the -[4414.92 --> 4415.30] time of -[4415.30 --> 4415.66] Paul -[4415.66 --> 4416.32] and of -[4416.32 --> 4416.42] the -[4416.42 --> 4416.84] disciples -[4416.84 --> 4417.50] so that -[4417.50 --> 4417.96] those same -[4417.96 --> 4418.46] disciples -[4418.46 --> 4419.24] would go -[4419.24 --> 4420.08] out from -[4420.08 --> 4421.04] Judea and -[4421.04 --> 4421.64] Samaria -[4421.64 --> 4422.12] and who -[4422.12 --> 4422.44] knows the -[4422.44 --> 4422.96] next line -[4422.96 --> 4424.42] to the -[4424.42 --> 4425.34] ends of -[4425.34 --> 4425.96] the -[4425.96 --> 4426.98] earth -[4426.98 --> 4429.70] you're -[4429.70 --> 4430.02] tracking -[4430.02 --> 4431.02] with this -[4431.02 --> 4432.98] right -[4432.98 --> 4433.24] does this -[4433.24 --> 4433.92] make sense -[4433.92 --> 4434.16] that -[4434.16 --> 4435.50] Paul -[4435.50 --> 4437.20] is offering -[4437.20 --> 4440.06] not only -[4440.06 --> 4440.40] to the -[4440.40 --> 4441.00] Gentiles -[4441.00 --> 4441.88] but to -[4441.88 --> 4442.28] his own -[4442.28 --> 4442.74] people -[4442.74 --> 4444.34] the comfort -[4444.34 --> 4445.76] of God's -[4445.76 --> 4446.30] purposes -[4446.30 --> 4447.54] in election -[4447.54 --> 4448.14] and it's -[4448.14 --> 4448.74] the comfort -[4448.74 --> 4449.68] of a -[4449.68 --> 4449.98] sovereign -[4449.98 --> 4450.44] God -[4450.44 --> 4452.22] the reason -[4452.22 --> 4452.74] he can -[4452.74 --> 4453.32] say that -[4453.32 --> 4453.96] God didn't -[4453.96 --> 4454.96] reject Israel -[4454.96 --> 4455.96] because of -[4455.96 --> 4456.58] their rejection -[4456.58 --> 4457.08] of him -[4457.08 --> 4457.92] is because -[4457.92 --> 4458.42] God -[4458.42 --> 4459.24] purposed -[4459.24 --> 4460.28] that rejection -[4460.28 --> 4461.24] in the -[4461.24 --> 4461.82] moment as -[4461.82 --> 4462.54] a mechanism -[4462.54 --> 4463.32] that would -[4463.32 --> 4464.04] bring the -[4464.04 --> 4464.96] gospel of -[4464.96 --> 4465.38] Jesus -[4465.38 --> 4466.20] to the -[4466.20 --> 4466.76] Gentiles -[4466.76 --> 4468.98] and let's -[4468.98 --> 4469.58] ground this -[4469.58 --> 4470.22] really -[4470.22 --> 4470.88] emphatically -[4470.88 --> 4472.30] this -[4472.30 --> 4473.40] purpose of -[4473.40 --> 4473.82] God -[4473.82 --> 4474.96] is the -[4474.96 --> 4475.40] reason -[4475.40 --> 4476.16] you and -[4476.16 --> 4476.48] I are -[4476.48 --> 4476.82] here -[4476.82 --> 4480.40] my belief -[4480.40 --> 4481.22] right now -[4481.22 --> 4481.76] in this -[4481.76 --> 4482.10] moment -[4482.10 --> 4482.88] is made -[4482.88 --> 4483.48] possible -[4483.48 --> 4484.38] because -[4484.38 --> 4485.58] this faith -[4485.58 --> 4486.42] that is being -[4486.42 --> 4487.00] a disciple -[4487.00 --> 4487.62] of Jesus -[4487.62 --> 4488.78] went beyond -[4488.78 --> 4489.44] ethnic -[4489.44 --> 4490.02] Israel -[4490.02 --> 4491.62] because it -[4491.62 --> 4492.02] was never -[4492.02 --> 4492.56] about -[4492.56 --> 4493.08] ethnic -[4493.08 --> 4493.54] Israel -[4493.54 --> 4493.90] but about -[4493.90 --> 4494.52] a spiritual -[4494.52 --> 4495.28] Israel -[4495.28 --> 4495.66] and a -[4495.66 --> 4496.14] spiritual -[4496.14 --> 4496.50] Israel -[4496.50 --> 4497.08] was always -[4497.08 --> 4497.58] the church -[4497.58 --> 4497.88] and the -[4497.88 --> 4498.18] church -[4498.18 --> 4498.96] was always -[4498.96 --> 4499.42] spiritual -[4499.42 --> 4500.00] Israel -[4500.00 --> 4500.42] right -[4500.42 --> 4501.40] the real -[4501.40 --> 4501.98] and true -[4501.98 --> 4502.64] descendants -[4502.64 --> 4503.64] of Abraham -[4503.64 --> 4510.22] the mechanism -[4510.22 --> 4511.06] of God's -[4511.06 --> 4511.92] sovereignty -[4511.92 --> 4513.44] active in -[4513.44 --> 4514.06] the world -[4514.06 --> 4514.70] so that -[4514.70 --> 4515.28] we could -[4515.28 --> 4515.92] be here -[4515.92 --> 4517.44] is -[4517.44 --> 4518.74] Israel's -[4518.74 --> 4519.18] then -[4519.18 --> 4519.90] rejection -[4519.90 --> 4520.00] salvation -[4520.00 --> 4521.24] of Jesus -[4521.24 --> 4523.40] that's -[4523.40 --> 4523.70] how all -[4523.70 --> 4524.02] nations -[4524.02 --> 4524.56] are blessed -[4524.56 --> 4525.26] through -[4525.26 --> 4525.68] Abraham -[4525.68 --> 4527.04] that's -[4527.04 --> 4527.32] how the -[4527.32 --> 4527.68] whole -[4527.68 --> 4528.08] earth -[4528.08 --> 4528.56] is filled -[4528.56 --> 4528.86] with the -[4528.86 --> 4529.24] knowledge -[4529.24 --> 4529.58] and the -[4529.58 --> 4529.88] glory -[4529.88 --> 4530.62] of the -[4530.62 --> 4530.84] Lord -[4530.84 --> 4531.62] that's -[4531.62 --> 4531.94] how the -[4531.94 --> 4532.34] vision -[4532.34 --> 4533.10] of revelation -[4533.10 --> 4533.54] of every -[4533.54 --> 4534.00] tribe -[4534.00 --> 4534.60] tongue -[4534.60 --> 4535.24] and nation -[4535.24 --> 4535.60] singing -[4535.60 --> 4536.06] holy -[4536.06 --> 4536.56] holy -[4536.56 --> 4537.00] holy -[4537.00 --> 4537.74] worthy -[4537.74 --> 4538.16] is the -[4538.16 --> 4538.48] lamb -[4538.48 --> 4538.80] who was -[4538.80 --> 4539.14] slain -[4539.14 --> 4539.72] that's -[4539.72 --> 4540.02] how that -[4540.02 --> 4540.34] vision -[4540.34 --> 4540.80] is -[4540.80 --> 4541.24] accomplished -[4541.24 --> 4544.52] this -[4544.52 --> 4546.10] is the -[4546.10 --> 4546.46] mission -[4546.46 --> 4547.00] of God -[4547.00 --> 4547.34] then -[4547.34 --> 4547.74] that we -[4547.74 --> 4548.20] get to -[4548.20 --> 4548.72] join -[4548.72 --> 4549.44] him -[4549.44 --> 4550.12] in -[4550.12 --> 4552.70] and I -[4552.70 --> 4553.06] for one -[4553.06 --> 4553.46] think that's -[4553.46 --> 4554.12] pretty awesome -[4554.12 --> 4556.84] that we -[4556.84 --> 4557.96] now have -[4557.96 --> 4558.54] the opportunity -[4558.54 --> 4559.40] to become -[4559.40 --> 4560.48] the mechanism -[4560.48 --> 4561.26] of God's -[4561.26 --> 4561.62] purposes -[4561.62 --> 4562.22] in election -[4562.22 --> 4566.18] and even -[4566.18 --> 4566.64] as that -[4566.64 --> 4567.32] is happening -[4567.32 --> 4569.12] among us -[4569.12 --> 4569.82] and through -[4569.82 --> 4570.24] us -[4570.24 --> 4570.86] and in -[4570.86 --> 4571.28] us -[4571.28 --> 4572.28] this -[4572.28 --> 4573.12] story -[4573.12 --> 4574.12] isn't -[4574.12 --> 4575.14] over -[4575.14 --> 4576.88] right -[4576.88 --> 4577.56] Paul -[4577.56 --> 4578.08] has -[4578.08 --> 4579.02] hope -[4579.02 --> 4579.80] for the -[4579.80 --> 4580.28] redemption -[4580.28 --> 4581.08] of his -[4581.08 --> 4581.64] brothers -[4581.64 --> 4583.12] of Israel -[4583.12 --> 4583.62] because -[4583.62 --> 4584.56] history -[4584.56 --> 4585.22] isn't -[4585.22 --> 4585.84] over -[4585.84 --> 4586.98] right -[4586.98 --> 4587.64] as long -[4587.64 --> 4588.10] as it -[4588.10 --> 4588.98] is today -[4588.98 --> 4590.02] there's still -[4590.02 --> 4590.58] a reason -[4590.58 --> 4591.06] to have -[4591.06 --> 4591.42] hope -[4591.42 --> 4591.98] for the -[4591.98 --> 4592.44] salvation -[4592.44 --> 4592.94] of someone -[4592.94 --> 4593.66] who doesn't -[4593.66 --> 4593.92] yet -[4593.92 --> 4594.50] believe -[4594.50 --> 4596.46] let me -[4596.46 --> 4596.76] say that -[4596.76 --> 4596.94] again -[4596.94 --> 4597.42] as long -[4597.42 --> 4597.68] as it -[4597.68 --> 4598.22] is today -[4598.22 --> 4599.08] there is -[4599.08 --> 4599.66] still a -[4599.66 --> 4599.88] reason -[4599.88 --> 4600.24] to have -[4600.24 --> 4600.54] hope -[4600.54 --> 4602.28] for the -[4602.28 --> 4602.66] salvation -[4602.66 --> 4603.08] of someone -[4603.08 --> 4603.48] who doesn't -[4603.48 --> 4603.66] yet -[4603.66 --> 4604.04] believe -[4604.04 --> 4605.26] which is -[4605.26 --> 4605.60] Paul's -[4605.60 --> 4606.02] second -[4606.02 --> 4606.84] point -[4606.84 --> 4607.10] right -[4607.10 --> 4608.22] Paul -[4608.22 --> 4609.08] hopes -[4609.08 --> 4610.46] that the -[4610.46 --> 4611.18] Gentile -[4611.18 --> 4611.98] inclusion -[4611.98 --> 4613.40] will now -[4613.40 --> 4614.08] become -[4614.08 --> 4615.32] the mechanism -[4615.32 --> 4616.46] of Israel -[4616.46 --> 4617.26] being awakened -[4617.26 --> 4618.00] to belief -[4618.00 --> 4618.96] look at -[4618.96 --> 4619.24] look at -[4619.24 --> 4619.82] verse 13 -[4619.82 --> 4622.24] this is -[4622.24 --> 4622.50] I am -[4622.50 --> 4622.92] talking to -[4622.92 --> 4623.14] you -[4623.14 --> 4623.78] Gentiles -[4623.78 --> 4624.42] in as -[4624.42 --> 4624.72] much -[4624.72 --> 4625.16] as I -[4625.16 --> 4625.42] am an -[4625.42 --> 4625.76] apostle -[4625.76 --> 4626.12] to the -[4626.12 --> 4626.64] Gentiles -[4626.64 --> 4627.00] I take -[4627.00 --> 4627.46] pride -[4627.46 --> 4627.82] in my -[4627.82 --> 4628.26] ministry -[4628.26 --> 4628.90] here -[4628.90 --> 4629.20] here -[4629.20 --> 4630.22] in the -[4630.22 --> 4630.70] hope -[4630.70 --> 4631.36] that I -[4631.36 --> 4631.54] may -[4631.54 --> 4632.04] somehow -[4632.04 --> 4632.70] arouse -[4632.70 --> 4633.26] my own -[4633.26 --> 4633.58] people -[4633.58 --> 4634.12] to envy -[4634.12 --> 4634.90] and save -[4634.90 --> 4635.64] some -[4635.64 --> 4636.00] of them -[4636.00 --> 4637.74] this -[4637.74 --> 4638.08] actually -[4638.08 --> 4638.58] is sort -[4638.58 --> 4638.86] of the -[4638.86 --> 4639.36] inverse -[4639.36 --> 4640.56] of the -[4640.56 --> 4640.94] previous -[4640.94 --> 4641.44] point -[4641.44 --> 4642.42] right -[4642.42 --> 4643.30] Israel's -[4643.30 --> 4643.70] rejection -[4643.70 --> 4644.36] was the -[4644.36 --> 4644.86] mechanism -[4644.86 --> 4645.40] that God -[4645.40 --> 4645.78] used -[4645.78 --> 4646.16] to bring -[4646.16 --> 4646.66] salvation -[4646.66 --> 4647.04] to the -[4647.04 --> 4647.58] Gentiles -[4647.58 --> 4648.54] and now -[4648.54 --> 4649.22] Paul -[4649.22 --> 4649.86] hopes -[4649.86 --> 4650.86] that the -[4650.86 --> 4651.50] Gentile -[4651.50 --> 4652.08] inclusion -[4652.08 --> 4652.72] might be -[4652.72 --> 4653.44] the mechanism -[4653.44 --> 4654.10] that God -[4654.10 --> 4654.74] uses to -[4654.74 --> 4655.54] bring salvation -[4655.54 --> 4656.46] to the -[4656.46 --> 4656.78] Israelites -[4656.78 --> 4657.34] who first -[4657.34 --> 4658.22] rejected God -[4658.22 --> 4659.14] in Jesus -[4659.14 --> 4662.70] do you hear -[4662.70 --> 4663.14] that right -[4663.14 --> 4664.30] even -[4664.30 --> 4664.84] their -[4664.84 --> 4665.48] stumbling -[4665.48 --> 4666.42] to believe -[4666.42 --> 4667.26] can be -[4667.26 --> 4667.78] used by -[4667.78 --> 4668.18] God -[4668.18 --> 4668.62] to bring -[4668.62 --> 4669.04] life -[4669.04 --> 4669.76] from the -[4669.76 --> 4670.10] spiritual -[4670.10 --> 4670.50] dead -[4670.50 --> 4671.70] of Israel -[4671.70 --> 4674.46] some of us -[4674.46 --> 4674.76] need to hear -[4674.76 --> 4675.14] that again -[4675.14 --> 4676.94] God -[4676.94 --> 4678.10] can -[4678.10 --> 4679.00] use -[4679.00 --> 4680.04] even -[4680.04 --> 4681.06] one's -[4681.06 --> 4681.66] own -[4681.66 --> 4682.40] stumbling -[4682.40 --> 4683.72] to believe -[4683.72 --> 4685.38] God -[4685.38 --> 4686.28] can use -[4686.28 --> 4686.66] even -[4686.66 --> 4687.08] one's -[4687.08 --> 4687.36] own -[4687.36 --> 4688.02] rejection -[4688.02 --> 4688.98] as the -[4688.98 --> 4689.44] means -[4689.44 --> 4690.00] by which -[4690.00 --> 4690.90] he draws -[4690.90 --> 4691.84] that same -[4691.84 --> 4692.38] one -[4692.38 --> 4693.22] back to -[4693.22 --> 4693.72] himself -[4693.72 --> 4695.80] right -[4695.80 --> 4696.16] that's -[4696.16 --> 4696.56] Paul's -[4696.56 --> 4696.82] point -[4696.82 --> 4697.14] here -[4697.14 --> 4697.52] right -[4697.52 --> 4697.84] far -[4697.84 --> 4698.10] from -[4698.10 --> 4698.62] Israel's -[4698.62 --> 4699.02] rejection -[4699.02 --> 4699.60] of God -[4699.60 --> 4699.98] meaning -[4699.98 --> 4700.48] God's -[4700.48 --> 4700.84] rejection -[4700.84 --> 4701.42] of Israel -[4701.42 --> 4702.08] God -[4702.08 --> 4702.86] can use -[4702.86 --> 4703.52] Israel's -[4703.52 --> 4703.90] rejection -[4703.90 --> 4704.38] of him -[4704.38 --> 4704.78] as the -[4704.78 --> 4705.00] very -[4705.00 --> 4705.64] means -[4705.64 --> 4706.10] by which -[4706.10 --> 4706.48] he brings -[4706.48 --> 4706.64] them -[4706.64 --> 4707.06] back -[4707.06 --> 4709.22] now I -[4709.22 --> 4709.48] need you -[4709.48 --> 4709.68] all to -[4709.68 --> 4710.18] hear that -[4710.18 --> 4711.16] because -[4711.16 --> 4711.64] that's -[4711.64 --> 4711.92] what it -[4711.92 --> 4712.14] means -[4712.14 --> 4712.42] to have -[4712.42 --> 4712.80] a sovereign -[4712.80 --> 4713.22] God -[4713.22 --> 4714.78] that's -[4714.78 --> 4715.06] what it -[4715.06 --> 4715.44] means -[4715.44 --> 4716.36] that God -[4716.36 --> 4716.80] is -[4716.80 --> 4717.48] God -[4717.48 --> 4718.08] right -[4718.08 --> 4718.70] that even -[4718.70 --> 4719.40] the act -[4719.40 --> 4719.94] of our -[4719.94 --> 4720.56] rejecting -[4720.56 --> 4720.96] him -[4720.96 --> 4721.46] can be -[4721.46 --> 4721.76] used -[4721.76 --> 4722.26] by him -[4722.26 --> 4722.62] as a -[4722.62 --> 4722.94] means -[4722.94 --> 4723.46] of -[4723.46 --> 4723.88] acceptance -[4723.88 --> 4725.44] and -[4725.44 --> 4725.78] if that -[4725.78 --> 4726.10] isn't -[4726.10 --> 4726.44] proof -[4726.44 --> 4727.00] of God's -[4727.00 --> 4727.44] sovereignty -[4727.44 --> 4727.98] and -[4727.98 --> 4729.44] words -[4729.44 --> 4729.92] fail me -[4729.92 --> 4730.62] his utter -[4730.62 --> 4731.44] godness -[4731.44 --> 4733.04] that I -[4733.04 --> 4733.14] don't -[4733.14 --> 4733.26] know -[4733.26 --> 4733.40] what -[4733.40 --> 4733.58] might -[4733.58 --> 4733.80] be -[4733.80 --> 4736.78] and -[4736.78 --> 4737.00] then -[4737.00 --> 4738.52] as we -[4738.52 --> 4738.98] hear the -[4738.98 --> 4739.40] sovereignty -[4739.40 --> 4739.96] of God -[4739.96 --> 4740.56] at work -[4740.56 --> 4742.06] hear the -[4742.06 --> 4742.48] hope -[4742.48 --> 4743.54] and the -[4743.54 --> 4744.08] comfort -[4744.08 --> 4744.54] right -[4744.54 --> 4744.88] that that -[4744.88 --> 4745.20] gives -[4745.20 --> 4745.80] us -[4745.80 --> 4746.32] right -[4746.32 --> 4747.22] even -[4747.22 --> 4748.10] someone's -[4748.10 --> 4748.72] in the -[4748.72 --> 4749.30] moment -[4749.30 --> 4750.06] outright -[4750.06 --> 4751.52] blatant -[4751.52 --> 4752.28] arrogant -[4752.28 --> 4752.98] rejection -[4752.98 --> 4754.16] isn't -[4754.16 --> 4754.74] enough -[4754.74 --> 4755.42] for God -[4755.42 --> 4756.22] to reject -[4756.22 --> 4756.82] them -[4756.82 --> 4760.04] let's -[4760.04 --> 4760.26] make it -[4760.26 --> 4760.58] personal -[4760.58 --> 4761.48] your -[4761.48 --> 4762.10] rejection -[4762.10 --> 4763.26] can't -[4763.26 --> 4764.84] your -[4764.84 --> 4765.46] rejection -[4765.46 --> 4766.44] cannot -[4766.44 --> 4768.06] overrule -[4768.06 --> 4768.58] God's -[4768.58 --> 4769.14] purposes -[4769.14 --> 4769.62] in -[4769.62 --> 4770.40] election -[4770.40 --> 4772.40] now -[4772.40 --> 4774.18] let's -[4774.18 --> 4774.60] slow down -[4774.60 --> 4775.84] don't hear -[4775.84 --> 4776.16] what I'm -[4776.16 --> 4776.70] not saying -[4776.70 --> 4778.32] right -[4778.32 --> 4779.54] this isn't -[4779.54 --> 4780.38] a guarantee -[4780.38 --> 4781.64] that everyone -[4781.64 --> 4782.22] who you -[4782.22 --> 4782.74] know -[4782.74 --> 4784.28] who looks -[4784.28 --> 4784.92] like right -[4784.92 --> 4785.42] now that -[4785.42 --> 4785.80] they have -[4785.80 --> 4786.22] rejected -[4786.22 --> 4786.56] God -[4786.56 --> 4787.08] this is -[4787.08 --> 4787.58] not a -[4787.58 --> 4787.90] guarantee -[4787.90 --> 4788.50] that their -[4788.50 --> 4788.96] rejection -[4788.96 --> 4789.44] will be -[4789.44 --> 4789.98] turned around -[4789.98 --> 4790.32] into -[4790.32 --> 4790.72] belief -[4790.72 --> 4793.80] but I -[4793.80 --> 4794.40] also can't -[4794.40 --> 4794.82] say that -[4794.82 --> 4795.44] God won't -[4795.44 --> 4799.38] that he -[4799.38 --> 4801.04] isn't -[4801.04 --> 4801.32] going to -[4801.32 --> 4801.74] do that -[4801.74 --> 4803.24] I don't -[4803.24 --> 4803.82] know what -[4803.82 --> 4804.32] he will -[4804.32 --> 4804.74] do -[4804.74 --> 4806.42] but what -[4806.42 --> 4807.00] I know -[4807.00 --> 4807.78] is that -[4807.78 --> 4808.10] he can -[4808.10 --> 4808.62] do it -[4808.62 --> 4810.72] and that's -[4810.72 --> 4811.14] why we -[4811.14 --> 4811.50] pray -[4811.50 --> 4812.82] that's -[4812.82 --> 4813.04] why -[4813.04 --> 4813.28] we -[4813.28 --> 4813.60] like -[4813.60 --> 4814.14] Paul -[4814.14 --> 4815.30] we pray -[4815.30 --> 4815.72] and we -[4815.72 --> 4816.10] plead -[4816.10 --> 4816.66] with God -[4816.66 --> 4817.96] to intercede -[4817.96 --> 4818.60] in the lives -[4818.60 --> 4819.24] of those -[4819.24 --> 4819.72] people whom -[4819.72 --> 4820.08] we know -[4820.08 --> 4820.42] and whom -[4820.42 --> 4820.72] we love -[4820.72 --> 4821.44] that's why -[4821.44 --> 4822.00] we preach -[4822.00 --> 4822.52] the gospel -[4822.52 --> 4823.40] over and -[4823.40 --> 4823.94] over and -[4823.94 --> 4824.56] over again -[4824.56 --> 4825.12] because how -[4825.12 --> 4825.46] can they -[4825.46 --> 4826.00] believe in -[4826.00 --> 4826.34] the one -[4826.34 --> 4826.72] of whom -[4826.72 --> 4827.12] they have -[4827.12 --> 4827.58] not heard -[4827.58 --> 4830.10] he did -[4830.10 --> 4830.28] it with -[4830.28 --> 4830.56] me -[4830.56 --> 4832.84] he could -[4832.84 --> 4833.02] do it -[4833.02 --> 4833.30] with you -[4833.30 --> 4835.30] he did -[4835.30 --> 4835.48] it with -[4835.48 --> 4835.80] you -[4835.80 --> 4836.98] so he -[4836.98 --> 4837.20] could do -[4837.20 --> 4837.36] it with -[4837.36 --> 4837.70] your brother -[4837.70 --> 4839.48] he did -[4839.48 --> 4839.66] it with -[4839.66 --> 4839.94] her -[4839.94 --> 4840.94] and so -[4840.94 --> 4841.24] you better -[4841.24 --> 4841.56] believe -[4841.56 --> 4841.80] he can -[4841.80 --> 4841.96] do it -[4841.96 --> 4842.26] with them -[4842.26 --> 4843.30] because -[4843.30 --> 4843.70] that's -[4843.70 --> 4843.94] what -[4843.94 --> 4844.38] God -[4844.38 --> 4845.22] does -[4845.22 --> 4845.86] that's -[4845.86 --> 4846.08] who -[4846.08 --> 4846.64] God -[4846.64 --> 4847.00] is -[4847.00 --> 4847.34] he did -[4847.34 --> 4847.52] it -[4847.52 --> 4847.88] with -[4847.88 --> 4848.02] the -[4848.02 --> 4848.56] Gentiles -[4848.56 --> 4848.86] he can -[4848.86 --> 4849.20] do it -[4849.20 --> 4849.56] with -[4849.56 --> 4849.94] Israel -[4849.94 --> 4850.60] he did -[4850.60 --> 4850.78] it -[4850.78 --> 4851.22] he can -[4851.22 --> 4851.48] do it -[4851.48 --> 4851.80] again -[4851.80 --> 4852.52] that's -[4852.52 --> 4853.12] the lesson -[4853.12 --> 4853.76] that's -[4853.76 --> 4854.26] the hope -[4854.26 --> 4854.88] that's -[4854.88 --> 4855.48] the comfort -[4855.48 --> 4856.84] and that's -[4856.84 --> 4857.26] exactly -[4857.26 --> 4857.62] why -[4857.62 --> 4858.00] Paul -[4858.00 --> 4858.60] makes -[4858.60 --> 4858.88] this -[4858.88 --> 4859.20] point -[4859.20 --> 4859.72] again -[4859.72 --> 4860.36] this -[4860.36 --> 4860.64] time -[4860.64 --> 4860.80] with -[4860.80 --> 4860.92] an -[4860.92 --> 4861.56] illustration -[4861.56 --> 4862.44] even -[4862.44 --> 4863.00] as he -[4863.00 --> 4863.48] shifts -[4863.48 --> 4863.88] that -[4863.88 --> 4864.20] through -[4864.20 --> 4864.42] the -[4864.42 --> 4864.96] illustration -[4864.96 --> 4865.60] to -[4865.60 --> 4866.24] application -[4866.24 --> 4866.96] for us -[4866.96 --> 4868.20] in verse -[4868.20 --> 4868.68] 17 -[4868.68 --> 4871.04] if some -[4871.04 --> 4871.30] of the -[4871.30 --> 4871.62] branches -[4871.62 --> 4872.08] have been -[4872.08 --> 4872.36] broken -[4872.36 --> 4872.82] off -[4872.82 --> 4873.48] and you -[4873.48 --> 4873.88] though -[4873.88 --> 4874.56] a wild -[4874.56 --> 4875.00] olive -[4875.00 --> 4875.30] shoot -[4875.30 --> 4875.72] have been -[4875.72 --> 4876.16] grafted -[4876.16 --> 4876.40] in -[4876.40 --> 4876.66] among -[4876.66 --> 4876.84] the -[4876.84 --> 4877.18] others -[4877.18 --> 4877.54] and now -[4877.54 --> 4877.82] share -[4877.82 --> 4878.04] in the -[4878.04 --> 4878.32] nourishing -[4878.32 --> 4878.60] sap -[4878.60 --> 4878.92] from the -[4878.92 --> 4879.20] olive -[4879.20 --> 4879.44] root -[4879.44 --> 4880.70] do not -[4880.70 --> 4881.20] consider -[4881.20 --> 4881.74] yourself -[4881.74 --> 4882.14] to be -[4882.14 --> 4882.72] superior -[4882.72 --> 4883.84] to those -[4883.84 --> 4884.48] other -[4884.48 --> 4885.70] branches -[4885.70 --> 4888.60] now here's -[4888.60 --> 4888.92] the thing -[4888.92 --> 4890.76] when it -[4890.76 --> 4891.80] comes to -[4891.80 --> 4892.60] faith -[4892.60 --> 4893.72] and life -[4893.72 --> 4895.68] there should -[4895.68 --> 4896.40] be no -[4896.40 --> 4896.86] such -[4896.86 --> 4897.36] thing -[4897.36 --> 4898.18] as a -[4898.18 --> 4898.64] cocky -[4898.64 --> 4899.10] Christian -[4899.10 --> 4901.64] now you -[4901.64 --> 4901.94] could be -[4901.94 --> 4902.38] confident -[4902.38 --> 4902.96] in Jesus -[4902.96 --> 4904.26] and you -[4904.26 --> 4904.70] can boast -[4904.70 --> 4905.00] in the -[4905.00 --> 4905.26] Lord -[4905.26 --> 4906.70] but we -[4906.70 --> 4907.00] should -[4907.00 --> 4907.64] never -[4907.64 --> 4908.44] appear -[4908.44 --> 4909.26] haughty -[4909.26 --> 4910.38] or conceited -[4910.38 --> 4910.74] we should -[4910.74 --> 4911.04] never -[4911.04 --> 4911.46] appear -[4911.46 --> 4912.28] proud -[4912.28 --> 4913.04] and the -[4913.04 --> 4913.72] fact that -[4913.72 --> 4915.56] the criticism -[4915.56 --> 4916.22] that exists -[4916.22 --> 4916.92] of so many -[4916.92 --> 4917.74] Christians -[4917.74 --> 4918.12] in the -[4918.12 --> 4918.34] world -[4918.34 --> 4918.84] today -[4918.84 --> 4919.72] the fact -[4919.72 --> 4920.68] that people -[4920.68 --> 4921.32] think of -[4921.32 --> 4921.78] Christians -[4921.78 --> 4922.16] and their -[4922.16 --> 4922.58] automatic -[4922.58 --> 4923.04] assumption -[4923.04 --> 4923.38] is -[4923.38 --> 4924.44] judgmental -[4924.44 --> 4924.84] or some -[4924.84 --> 4925.16] sort of -[4925.16 --> 4926.08] like holier -[4926.08 --> 4926.46] than thou -[4926.46 --> 4926.84] attitude -[4926.84 --> 4927.64] means -[4927.64 --> 4928.58] that we -[4928.58 --> 4929.74] haven't lived -[4929.74 --> 4930.10] with the -[4930.10 --> 4930.68] humility -[4930.68 --> 4931.58] that our -[4931.58 --> 4932.10] salvation -[4932.10 --> 4932.76] by grace -[4932.76 --> 4933.30] through faith -[4933.30 --> 4933.90] requires -[4933.90 --> 4934.64] of us -[4934.64 --> 4937.36] but we -[4937.36 --> 4937.94] have been -[4937.94 --> 4939.00] proud -[4939.00 --> 4941.22] or boastful -[4941.22 --> 4944.20] one person -[4944.20 --> 4945.00] I read -[4945.00 --> 4945.48] this week -[4945.48 --> 4946.54] summarized it -[4946.54 --> 4946.84] like this -[4946.84 --> 4947.18] and I'm -[4947.18 --> 4947.74] paraphrasing -[4947.74 --> 4948.20] they say -[4948.20 --> 4949.64] though Israel -[4949.64 --> 4950.46] was God's -[4950.46 --> 4951.40] chosen people -[4951.40 --> 4952.10] they began -[4952.10 --> 4952.76] to act -[4952.76 --> 4953.40] and think -[4953.40 --> 4953.94] like they -[4953.94 --> 4954.72] were choice -[4954.72 --> 4955.58] people -[4955.58 --> 4957.72] that is -[4957.72 --> 4958.14] they became -[4958.14 --> 4958.68] confident -[4958.68 --> 4959.26] that no matter -[4959.26 --> 4959.78] how they -[4959.78 --> 4960.16] lived -[4960.16 --> 4960.56] or what -[4960.56 --> 4961.18] they did -[4961.18 --> 4962.78] that it -[4962.78 --> 4963.24] didn't matter -[4963.24 --> 4963.90] they had -[4963.90 --> 4964.38] forgotten -[4964.38 --> 4965.24] that being -[4965.24 --> 4965.84] chosen -[4965.84 --> 4966.74] comes with -[4966.74 --> 4967.56] an identity -[4967.56 --> 4968.78] and with -[4968.78 --> 4969.82] a responsibility -[4969.82 --> 4972.46] in Romans -[4972.46 --> 4972.88] 12 -[4972.88 --> 4973.58] Paul is -[4973.58 --> 4974.44] going to -[4974.44 --> 4974.70] say -[4974.70 --> 4976.00] for by the -[4976.00 --> 4976.56] grace given -[4976.56 --> 4977.26] me I say -[4977.26 --> 4977.68] to every -[4977.68 --> 4978.10] one of you -[4978.10 --> 4978.64] do not -[4978.64 --> 4979.20] think of -[4979.20 --> 4979.64] yourself -[4979.64 --> 4980.32] more highly -[4980.32 --> 4981.02] than you -[4981.02 --> 4981.24] ought -[4981.24 --> 4981.76] but rather -[4981.76 --> 4982.24] think of -[4982.24 --> 4982.58] yourself -[4982.58 --> 4983.16] with sober -[4983.16 --> 4983.58] judgment -[4983.58 --> 4984.46] in accordance -[4984.46 --> 4984.92] with the -[4984.92 --> 4985.44] faith God -[4985.44 --> 4986.04] has distributed -[4986.04 --> 4986.50] to each -[4986.50 --> 4986.84] of you -[4986.84 --> 4987.84] to the -[4987.84 --> 4988.48] Philippians -[4988.48 --> 4989.44] Paul says -[4989.44 --> 4990.48] do nothing -[4990.48 --> 4991.38] out of selfish -[4991.38 --> 4991.92] ambition -[4991.92 --> 4992.50] or vain -[4992.50 --> 4993.12] conceit -[4993.12 --> 4993.96] rather in -[4993.96 --> 4994.70] humility -[4994.70 --> 4995.86] value others -[4995.86 --> 4996.66] above yourselves -[4996.66 --> 4997.24] not looking -[4997.24 --> 4997.76] to your own -[4997.76 --> 4998.20] interests -[4998.20 --> 4998.70] but each -[4998.70 --> 4999.02] of you -[4999.02 --> 4999.70] to the -[4999.70 --> 5000.14] interests -[5000.14 --> 5000.74] of others -[5000.74 --> 5004.66] Paul is -[5004.66 --> 5005.18] saying -[5005.18 --> 5006.10] to the -[5006.10 --> 5007.10] Gentile -[5007.10 --> 5007.70] audience -[5007.70 --> 5008.64] reading this -[5008.64 --> 5008.96] letter -[5008.96 --> 5009.56] and let's -[5009.56 --> 5010.22] be clear -[5010.22 --> 5011.20] 2,000 -[5011.20 --> 5011.62] years later -[5011.62 --> 5011.86] that's -[5011.86 --> 5012.36] us -[5012.36 --> 5014.26] he's -[5014.26 --> 5014.38] saying -[5014.38 --> 5014.82] don't -[5014.82 --> 5015.10] be -[5015.10 --> 5015.44] that -[5015.44 --> 5015.78] way -[5015.78 --> 5017.38] right -[5017.38 --> 5017.96] faith -[5017.96 --> 5018.38] is -[5018.38 --> 5018.68] not -[5018.68 --> 5019.04] that -[5019.04 --> 5019.96] presumption -[5019.96 --> 5020.70] instead -[5020.70 --> 5021.30] he says -[5021.30 --> 5022.04] continue -[5022.04 --> 5022.46] in -[5022.46 --> 5022.82] God's -[5022.82 --> 5023.20] kindness -[5023.20 --> 5024.56] and make -[5024.56 --> 5024.98] no mistake -[5024.98 --> 5025.38] about it -[5025.38 --> 5025.68] this is -[5025.68 --> 5026.32] this is -[5026.32 --> 5026.64] one of the -[5026.64 --> 5026.86] reasons -[5026.86 --> 5027.18] why this -[5027.18 --> 5027.32] is a -[5027.32 --> 5027.48] hard -[5027.48 --> 5027.76] text -[5027.76 --> 5028.04] because -[5028.04 --> 5028.22] there's -[5028.22 --> 5028.36] a -[5028.36 --> 5028.68] warning -[5028.68 --> 5028.94] in -[5028.94 --> 5029.14] here -[5029.14 --> 5029.38] right -[5029.38 --> 5029.94] consider -[5029.94 --> 5030.20] the -[5030.20 --> 5030.62] kindness -[5030.62 --> 5031.20] and -[5031.20 --> 5031.44] the -[5031.44 --> 5032.10] sternness -[5032.10 --> 5032.34] of -[5032.34 --> 5032.66] God -[5032.66 --> 5032.88] verse -[5032.88 --> 5033.30] 22 -[5033.30 --> 5034.50] sternness -[5034.50 --> 5034.72] for -[5034.72 --> 5035.04] those -[5035.04 --> 5035.20] who -[5035.20 --> 5035.52] fell -[5035.52 --> 5035.78] the -[5035.78 --> 5036.36] kindness -[5036.36 --> 5037.32] to -[5037.32 --> 5037.60] you -[5037.60 --> 5039.40] the -[5039.40 --> 5039.82] way -[5039.82 --> 5040.32] of -[5040.32 --> 5041.12] confidence -[5041.12 --> 5041.52] in -[5041.52 --> 5041.96] Jesus -[5041.96 --> 5042.78] and -[5042.78 --> 5042.88] the -[5042.88 --> 5043.10] way -[5043.10 --> 5043.34] of -[5043.34 --> 5044.26] assurance -[5044.26 --> 5044.78] of -[5044.78 --> 5045.48] salvation -[5045.48 --> 5046.04] is -[5046.04 --> 5046.28] not -[5046.28 --> 5046.86] arrogance -[5046.86 --> 5047.66] but -[5047.66 --> 5048.44] kindness -[5048.44 --> 5050.18] the -[5050.18 --> 5050.56] way -[5050.56 --> 5050.74] that -[5050.74 --> 5050.86] you -[5050.86 --> 5051.04] can -[5051.04 --> 5051.32] know -[5051.32 --> 5051.52] that -[5051.52 --> 5051.86] God's -[5051.86 --> 5052.16] sovereign -[5052.16 --> 5052.56] love -[5052.56 --> 5052.80] is -[5052.80 --> 5053.20] on -[5053.20 --> 5053.54] you -[5053.54 --> 5053.90] and -[5053.90 --> 5054.24] in -[5054.24 --> 5054.46] you -[5054.46 --> 5054.62] and -[5054.62 --> 5055.18] for -[5055.18 --> 5055.56] you -[5055.56 --> 5056.04] is -[5056.04 --> 5056.24] that -[5056.24 --> 5056.44] you -[5056.44 --> 5057.18] continue -[5057.18 --> 5058.00] in -[5058.00 --> 5058.24] his -[5058.24 --> 5058.54] love -[5058.54 --> 5058.68] that -[5058.68 --> 5058.80] you -[5058.80 --> 5059.30] continue -[5059.30 --> 5059.94] in -[5059.94 --> 5060.14] his -[5060.14 --> 5060.56] kindness -[5060.56 --> 5060.80] that -[5060.80 --> 5060.94] you -[5060.94 --> 5061.44] continue -[5061.44 --> 5062.10] in -[5062.10 --> 5062.28] his -[5062.28 --> 5062.80] goodness -[5062.80 --> 5063.88] in -[5063.88 --> 5064.22] short -[5064.22 --> 5064.48] if -[5064.48 --> 5064.64] you -[5064.64 --> 5065.20] continue -[5065.20 --> 5065.58] to -[5065.58 --> 5066.34] live -[5066.34 --> 5066.72] like -[5066.72 --> 5067.08] Jesus -[5067.08 --> 5067.54] trying -[5067.54 --> 5067.86] to -[5067.86 --> 5068.46] be -[5068.46 --> 5068.92] like -[5068.92 --> 5069.42] him -[5069.42 --> 5070.02] right -[5070.02 --> 5071.22] that's -[5071.22 --> 5071.34] how -[5071.34 --> 5071.52] you -[5071.52 --> 5071.76] can -[5071.76 --> 5072.06] know -[5072.06 --> 5072.26] and -[5072.26 --> 5072.42] have -[5072.42 --> 5072.92] assurance -[5072.92 --> 5073.84] but -[5073.84 --> 5073.96] if -[5073.96 --> 5074.14] that -[5074.14 --> 5074.70] continuing -[5074.70 --> 5075.48] stops -[5075.48 --> 5075.94] or -[5075.94 --> 5076.04] if -[5076.04 --> 5076.16] you -[5076.16 --> 5076.30] are -[5076.30 --> 5076.60] living -[5076.60 --> 5076.86] for -[5076.86 --> 5077.40] yourselves -[5077.40 --> 5077.78] or -[5077.78 --> 5077.96] you -[5077.96 --> 5078.84] think -[5078.84 --> 5079.26] of -[5079.26 --> 5079.88] yourself -[5079.88 --> 5080.64] as -[5080.64 --> 5081.10] better -[5081.10 --> 5081.62] right -[5081.62 --> 5081.80] if -[5081.80 --> 5081.98] we -[5081.98 --> 5082.28] are -[5082.28 --> 5082.92] constantly -[5082.92 --> 5083.40] over -[5083.40 --> 5083.62] and -[5083.62 --> 5083.90] over -[5083.90 --> 5084.36] choosing -[5084.36 --> 5084.84] sin -[5084.84 --> 5085.14] instead -[5085.14 --> 5085.30] of -[5085.30 --> 5085.76] righteousness -[5085.76 --> 5086.36] if -[5086.36 --> 5086.54] we -[5086.54 --> 5086.72] are -[5086.72 --> 5087.22] relying -[5087.22 --> 5087.48] on -[5087.48 --> 5087.60] our -[5087.60 --> 5087.80] own -[5087.80 --> 5088.10] doing -[5088.10 --> 5088.34] or -[5088.34 --> 5088.46] our -[5088.46 --> 5088.62] own -[5088.62 --> 5089.20] performing -[5089.20 --> 5089.84] right -[5089.84 --> 5091.30] you -[5091.30 --> 5091.54] got to -[5091.54 --> 5091.68] hear -[5091.68 --> 5092.02] this -[5092.02 --> 5092.72] warning -[5092.72 --> 5092.90] we -[5092.90 --> 5093.00] have -[5093.00 --> 5093.10] to -[5093.10 --> 5093.28] start -[5093.28 --> 5093.46] to -[5093.46 --> 5093.90] wonder -[5093.90 --> 5094.34] in -[5094.34 --> 5094.96] ourselves -[5094.96 --> 5095.40] if -[5095.40 --> 5096.26] God's -[5096.26 --> 5096.68] kindness -[5096.68 --> 5097.26] is -[5097.26 --> 5097.92] still -[5097.92 --> 5098.24] on -[5098.24 --> 5098.38] us -[5098.38 --> 5098.54] or -[5098.54 --> 5098.80] if -[5098.80 --> 5099.08] it -[5099.08 --> 5099.42] ever -[5099.42 --> 5100.38] was -[5100.38 --> 5101.10] or -[5101.10 --> 5102.34] are -[5102.34 --> 5102.48] we -[5102.48 --> 5102.74] maybe -[5102.74 --> 5103.38] hiding -[5103.38 --> 5104.40] in -[5104.40 --> 5104.56] our -[5104.56 --> 5105.00] rejection -[5105.00 --> 5105.82] of -[5105.82 --> 5106.00] him -[5106.00 --> 5107.38] right -[5107.38 --> 5107.70] how -[5107.70 --> 5108.00] you -[5108.00 --> 5108.70] live -[5108.70 --> 5109.76] reveals -[5109.76 --> 5110.16] the -[5110.16 --> 5110.82] truth -[5110.82 --> 5111.54] of -[5111.54 --> 5111.88] your -[5111.88 --> 5112.52] profession -[5112.52 --> 5113.92] and -[5113.92 --> 5114.00] so -[5114.00 --> 5114.14] when -[5114.14 --> 5114.34] you -[5114.34 --> 5114.78] say -[5114.78 --> 5115.24] Jesus -[5115.24 --> 5115.58] is -[5115.58 --> 5115.92] Lord -[5115.92 --> 5116.14] and -[5116.14 --> 5116.38] God -[5116.38 --> 5116.76] raised -[5116.76 --> 5116.98] him -[5116.98 --> 5117.20] from -[5117.20 --> 5117.34] the -[5117.34 --> 5117.66] dead -[5117.66 --> 5118.18] that -[5118.18 --> 5118.72] changes -[5118.72 --> 5119.54] everything -[5119.54 --> 5120.30] about -[5120.30 --> 5120.80] what -[5120.80 --> 5121.34] and -[5121.34 --> 5121.72] who -[5121.72 --> 5122.14] you -[5122.14 --> 5122.66] live -[5122.66 --> 5122.96] for -[5122.96 --> 5124.54] and -[5124.54 --> 5124.70] if -[5124.70 --> 5124.88] it's -[5124.88 --> 5125.30] real -[5125.30 --> 5126.08] it's -[5126.08 --> 5126.34] going -[5126.34 --> 5126.48] to -[5126.48 --> 5126.72] show -[5126.72 --> 5126.92] up -[5126.92 --> 5127.10] in -[5127.10 --> 5127.24] your -[5127.24 --> 5127.68] life -[5127.68 --> 5128.92] and -[5128.92 --> 5129.02] that -[5129.02 --> 5129.18] doesn't -[5129.18 --> 5129.30] mean -[5129.30 --> 5129.46] we're -[5129.46 --> 5129.58] going to -[5129.58 --> 5129.72] be -[5129.72 --> 5130.08] perfect -[5130.08 --> 5130.40] far -[5130.40 --> 5131.02] from -[5131.02 --> 5131.14] it -[5131.14 --> 5131.26] but -[5131.26 --> 5131.40] it -[5131.40 --> 5131.66] does -[5131.66 --> 5132.04] mean -[5132.04 --> 5132.56] that -[5132.56 --> 5132.72] we -[5132.72 --> 5132.90] will -[5132.90 --> 5133.22] see -[5133.22 --> 5133.94] growth -[5133.94 --> 5134.18] in -[5134.18 --> 5134.48] things -[5134.48 --> 5134.68] like -[5134.68 --> 5134.84] the -[5134.84 --> 5135.10] fruit -[5135.10 --> 5135.70] of -[5135.70 --> 5135.84] the -[5135.84 --> 5136.08] spirit -[5136.08 --> 5137.10] it -[5137.10 --> 5137.34] does -[5137.34 --> 5137.60] mean -[5137.60 --> 5137.76] that -[5137.76 --> 5137.88] you -[5137.88 --> 5138.04] will -[5138.04 --> 5138.38] see -[5138.38 --> 5139.30] developing -[5139.30 --> 5139.72] in -[5139.72 --> 5140.32] patience -[5140.32 --> 5140.82] and -[5140.82 --> 5141.26] kindness -[5141.26 --> 5141.74] and -[5141.74 --> 5142.22] goodness -[5142.22 --> 5142.78] and -[5142.78 --> 5143.54] gentleness -[5143.54 --> 5145.66] does -[5145.66 --> 5146.06] mean -[5146.06 --> 5146.92] that -[5146.92 --> 5147.02] we -[5147.02 --> 5147.14] will -[5147.14 --> 5147.26] get -[5147.26 --> 5147.42] a -[5147.42 --> 5147.78] handle -[5147.78 --> 5148.14] on -[5148.14 --> 5148.30] our -[5148.30 --> 5148.64] self -[5148.64 --> 5149.20] control -[5149.20 --> 5149.78] over -[5149.78 --> 5150.56] a -[5150.56 --> 5150.88] period -[5150.88 --> 5151.50] of -[5151.50 --> 5151.64] a -[5151.64 --> 5152.02] lifetime -[5152.02 --> 5152.52] or -[5152.52 --> 5152.68] a -[5152.68 --> 5153.00] period -[5153.00 --> 5153.46] of -[5153.46 --> 5153.58] a -[5153.58 --> 5153.88] time -[5153.88 --> 5154.14] because -[5154.14 --> 5154.48] the -[5154.48 --> 5154.88] Holy -[5154.88 --> 5155.34] Spirit -[5155.34 --> 5156.00] makes -[5156.00 --> 5156.46] that -[5156.46 --> 5157.32] possible -[5157.32 --> 5159.90] now -[5159.90 --> 5160.20] to sum -[5160.20 --> 5160.44] it all -[5160.44 --> 5160.74] up -[5160.74 --> 5163.38] and to -[5163.38 --> 5163.72] come back -[5163.72 --> 5163.94] to the -[5163.94 --> 5164.20] beginning -[5164.20 --> 5165.48] this -[5165.48 --> 5166.04] chapter -[5166.04 --> 5167.02] really -[5167.02 --> 5167.62] is -[5167.62 --> 5168.00] an -[5168.00 --> 5169.34] exaltation -[5169.34 --> 5170.30] of -[5170.30 --> 5170.68] a -[5170.68 --> 5171.14] sovereign -[5171.14 --> 5171.94] God -[5171.94 --> 5173.04] and -[5173.04 --> 5173.24] it -[5173.24 --> 5173.66] paints -[5173.66 --> 5173.90] a -[5173.90 --> 5174.16] picture -[5174.16 --> 5174.42] for -[5174.42 --> 5174.66] us -[5174.66 --> 5174.86] of -[5174.86 --> 5175.00] a -[5175.00 --> 5175.34] God -[5175.34 --> 5175.52] who -[5175.52 --> 5175.76] is -[5175.76 --> 5176.20] God -[5176.20 --> 5176.38] and -[5176.38 --> 5176.54] whose -[5176.54 --> 5177.26] purposes -[5177.26 --> 5177.62] in -[5177.62 --> 5178.10] creating -[5178.10 --> 5178.60] and -[5178.60 --> 5179.06] redeeming -[5179.06 --> 5179.16] the -[5179.16 --> 5179.36] world -[5179.36 --> 5179.60] whose -[5179.60 --> 5180.08] purpose -[5180.08 --> 5180.36] in -[5180.36 --> 5180.96] election -[5180.96 --> 5181.78] cannot -[5181.78 --> 5182.42] be -[5182.42 --> 5183.22] thwarted -[5183.22 --> 5183.86] even -[5183.86 --> 5184.32] our -[5184.32 --> 5184.88] rejection -[5184.88 --> 5185.10] of -[5185.10 --> 5185.44] him -[5185.44 --> 5185.76] is -[5185.76 --> 5186.00] not -[5186.00 --> 5186.42] enough -[5186.42 --> 5186.62] for -[5186.62 --> 5186.86] him -[5186.86 --> 5187.36] to -[5187.36 --> 5187.88] reject -[5187.88 --> 5188.66] us -[5188.66 --> 5190.34] in -[5190.34 --> 5190.78] fact -[5190.78 --> 5192.62] that -[5192.62 --> 5192.84] is -[5192.84 --> 5193.08] the -[5193.08 --> 5193.46] heart -[5193.46 --> 5194.20] and -[5194.20 --> 5194.42] the -[5194.42 --> 5194.94] majesty -[5194.94 --> 5196.02] of -[5196.02 --> 5196.18] the -[5196.18 --> 5196.60] gospel -[5196.60 --> 5198.22] that -[5198.22 --> 5198.38] there -[5198.38 --> 5198.62] is -[5198.62 --> 5199.04] nothing -[5199.04 --> 5199.30] that -[5199.30 --> 5199.54] I -[5199.54 --> 5199.72] can -[5199.72 --> 5199.96] do -[5199.96 --> 5200.18] to -[5200.18 --> 5200.52] gain -[5200.52 --> 5201.38] salvation -[5201.38 --> 5201.76] which -[5201.76 --> 5202.10] means -[5202.10 --> 5202.40] there is -[5202.40 --> 5202.72] nothing -[5202.72 --> 5202.96] that -[5202.96 --> 5203.16] I -[5203.16 --> 5203.34] can -[5203.34 --> 5203.68] do -[5203.68 --> 5204.12] to -[5204.12 --> 5204.44] lose -[5204.44 --> 5204.68] it -[5204.68 --> 5206.08] Jesus -[5206.08 --> 5206.52] lived -[5206.52 --> 5206.66] the -[5206.66 --> 5206.90] life -[5206.90 --> 5207.06] I -[5207.06 --> 5207.22] should -[5207.22 --> 5207.36] have -[5207.36 --> 5207.66] lived -[5207.66 --> 5207.78] and -[5207.78 --> 5208.34] now -[5208.34 --> 5208.58] I -[5208.58 --> 5208.72] am -[5208.72 --> 5209.18] clothed -[5209.18 --> 5209.28] in -[5209.28 --> 5209.46] his -[5209.46 --> 5209.94] righteousness -[5209.94 --> 5210.26] and -[5210.26 --> 5210.42] that -[5210.42 --> 5211.00] can't -[5211.00 --> 5211.18] be -[5211.18 --> 5211.50] taken -[5211.50 --> 5211.90] away -[5211.90 --> 5212.52] Jesus -[5212.52 --> 5212.92] died -[5212.92 --> 5213.08] the -[5213.08 --> 5213.32] death -[5213.32 --> 5213.48] that -[5213.48 --> 5213.64] I -[5213.64 --> 5214.04] deserved -[5214.04 --> 5214.40] paying -[5214.40 --> 5214.62] the -[5214.62 --> 5214.94] price -[5214.94 --> 5215.14] for -[5215.14 --> 5215.28] the -[5215.28 --> 5215.60] curse -[5215.60 --> 5216.08] which -[5216.08 --> 5216.26] is -[5216.26 --> 5216.58] death -[5216.58 --> 5217.28] death -[5217.28 --> 5217.86] dies -[5217.86 --> 5218.70] by -[5218.70 --> 5218.90] the -[5218.90 --> 5219.42] deathless -[5219.42 --> 5219.78] one -[5219.78 --> 5220.24] dying -[5220.24 --> 5220.48] on -[5220.48 --> 5220.62] a -[5220.62 --> 5220.92] cross -[5220.92 --> 5221.48] taking -[5221.48 --> 5221.72] the -[5221.72 --> 5222.20] punishment -[5222.20 --> 5222.68] for -[5222.68 --> 5222.94] my -[5222.94 --> 5223.20] sin -[5223.20 --> 5224.72] this -[5224.72 --> 5225.30] is -[5225.30 --> 5225.70] how -[5225.70 --> 5226.14] those -[5226.14 --> 5226.32] of -[5226.32 --> 5226.54] us -[5226.54 --> 5226.76] who -[5226.76 --> 5227.36] believe -[5227.36 --> 5227.88] are -[5227.88 --> 5228.38] declared -[5228.38 --> 5229.44] righteous -[5229.44 --> 5230.94] right -[5230.94 --> 5231.42] Jesus -[5231.42 --> 5232.14] life -[5232.14 --> 5232.52] and -[5232.52 --> 5232.86] death -[5232.86 --> 5233.18] is -[5233.18 --> 5233.46] the -[5233.46 --> 5234.18] ultimate -[5234.18 --> 5235.24] mechanism -[5235.24 --> 5235.82] of -[5235.82 --> 5236.28] our -[5236.28 --> 5237.40] salvation -[5237.40 --> 5239.40] it -[5239.40 --> 5239.52] was -[5239.52 --> 5240.26] always -[5240.26 --> 5241.26] God's -[5241.26 --> 5241.94] sovereign -[5241.94 --> 5242.92] plan -[5242.92 --> 5245.08] it's -[5245.08 --> 5245.22] true -[5245.22 --> 5245.44] for -[5245.44 --> 5245.80] us -[5245.80 --> 5247.56] and -[5247.56 --> 5247.76] it's -[5247.76 --> 5248.00] true -[5248.00 --> 5248.22] for -[5248.22 --> 5248.36] the -[5248.36 --> 5248.78] Israel -[5248.78 --> 5249.00] who -[5249.00 --> 5249.48] rejected -[5249.48 --> 5249.76] him -[5249.76 --> 5250.02] all -[5250.02 --> 5250.28] those -[5250.28 --> 5250.56] years -[5250.56 --> 5250.86] ago -[5250.86 --> 5252.26] one -[5252.26 --> 5252.52] last -[5252.52 --> 5252.78] word -[5252.78 --> 5253.70] from -[5253.70 --> 5253.86] our -[5253.86 --> 5254.16] text -[5254.16 --> 5255.56] verse -[5255.56 --> 5256.08] 23 -[5256.08 --> 5257.94] if -[5257.94 --> 5258.34] they -[5258.34 --> 5258.78] that is -[5258.78 --> 5259.26] Israel -[5259.26 --> 5259.92] do not -[5259.92 --> 5260.52] persist -[5260.52 --> 5260.88] in -[5260.88 --> 5261.68] unbelief -[5261.68 --> 5262.12] they -[5262.12 --> 5262.38] will -[5262.38 --> 5262.58] be -[5262.58 --> 5263.16] grafted -[5263.16 --> 5263.46] in -[5263.46 --> 5263.74] for -[5263.74 --> 5264.08] God -[5264.08 --> 5264.28] is -[5264.28 --> 5264.70] able -[5264.70 --> 5265.02] to -[5265.02 --> 5265.42] graft -[5265.42 --> 5265.68] them -[5265.68 --> 5265.98] in -[5265.98 --> 5266.40] again -[5266.40 --> 5268.12] after -[5268.12 --> 5268.42] all -[5268.42 --> 5268.62] if -[5268.62 --> 5268.74] you -[5268.74 --> 5268.90] were -[5268.90 --> 5269.10] cut -[5269.10 --> 5269.40] off -[5269.40 --> 5269.52] of -[5269.52 --> 5269.64] an -[5269.64 --> 5269.90] olive -[5269.90 --> 5270.18] tree -[5270.18 --> 5270.36] that -[5270.36 --> 5270.50] is -[5270.50 --> 5270.84] wild -[5270.84 --> 5271.08] by -[5271.08 --> 5271.42] nature -[5271.42 --> 5271.64] and -[5271.64 --> 5272.08] contrary -[5272.08 --> 5272.36] to -[5272.36 --> 5272.58] nature -[5272.58 --> 5272.78] were -[5272.78 --> 5273.18] grafted -[5273.18 --> 5273.38] into -[5273.38 --> 5273.60] a -[5273.60 --> 5274.00] cultivated -[5274.00 --> 5274.38] olive -[5274.38 --> 5274.64] tree -[5274.64 --> 5274.96] how -[5274.96 --> 5275.28] much -[5275.28 --> 5275.56] more -[5275.56 --> 5275.94] readily -[5275.94 --> 5276.30] will -[5276.30 --> 5276.80] these -[5276.80 --> 5277.36] the -[5277.36 --> 5277.86] natural -[5277.86 --> 5278.36] branches -[5278.36 --> 5278.74] be -[5278.74 --> 5279.22] grafted -[5279.22 --> 5279.58] into -[5279.58 --> 5279.84] their -[5279.84 --> 5280.26] own -[5280.26 --> 5281.10] olive -[5281.10 --> 5281.46] tree -[5281.46 --> 5284.52] now -[5284.52 --> 5284.96] as we -[5284.96 --> 5286.16] continue -[5286.16 --> 5286.98] the -[5286.98 --> 5287.64] analogy -[5287.64 --> 5288.28] here -[5288.28 --> 5288.60] of -[5288.60 --> 5289.72] between -[5289.72 --> 5290.32] Israel -[5290.32 --> 5291.86] and -[5291.86 --> 5292.30] those -[5292.30 --> 5292.86] of our -[5292.86 --> 5293.28] sons -[5293.28 --> 5293.58] and -[5293.58 --> 5293.90] daughters -[5293.90 --> 5294.32] of our -[5294.32 --> 5294.74] friends -[5294.74 --> 5295.70] and family -[5295.70 --> 5296.10] who were -[5296.10 --> 5296.50] once -[5296.50 --> 5296.98] part -[5296.98 --> 5297.34] of -[5297.34 --> 5297.66] us -[5297.66 --> 5297.82] who -[5297.82 --> 5298.10] once -[5298.10 --> 5299.18] professed -[5299.18 --> 5299.42] faith -[5299.42 --> 5299.90] but now -[5299.90 --> 5300.42] for whatever -[5300.42 --> 5300.84] reason -[5300.84 --> 5301.66] don't -[5301.66 --> 5302.12] but now -[5302.12 --> 5302.72] live a -[5302.72 --> 5303.04] life -[5303.04 --> 5303.90] of -[5303.90 --> 5304.40] rejection -[5304.40 --> 5304.68] whether -[5304.68 --> 5304.96] it's -[5304.96 --> 5305.36] implicit -[5305.36 --> 5305.74] or -[5305.74 --> 5306.28] explicit -[5306.28 --> 5306.64] whether -[5306.64 --> 5306.90] it's -[5306.90 --> 5307.34] active -[5307.34 --> 5307.68] or -[5307.68 --> 5308.68] passive -[5308.68 --> 5311.26] hear the -[5311.26 --> 5311.58] hope -[5311.58 --> 5314.44] it could -[5314.44 --> 5315.20] be so -[5315.20 --> 5316.10] easy -[5316.10 --> 5317.52] for God -[5317.52 --> 5317.96] to -[5317.96 --> 5318.60] graft -[5318.60 --> 5319.02] them -[5319.02 --> 5319.72] back -[5319.72 --> 5320.40] in -[5320.40 --> 5321.86] because -[5321.86 --> 5322.18] he's a -[5322.18 --> 5322.40] sovereign -[5322.40 --> 5322.74] God -[5322.74 --> 5323.96] and -[5323.96 --> 5324.16] that's -[5324.16 --> 5324.30] what -[5324.30 --> 5324.40] he -[5324.40 --> 5324.70] does -[5324.70 --> 5325.24] for -[5325.24 --> 5325.48] God -[5325.48 --> 5325.64] to -[5325.64 --> 5325.84] turn -[5325.84 --> 5326.14] their -[5326.14 --> 5326.76] rejection -[5326.76 --> 5327.66] and -[5327.66 --> 5327.82] their -[5327.82 --> 5328.44] unbelief -[5328.44 --> 5328.94] into -[5328.94 --> 5329.96] belief -[5329.96 --> 5330.76] he -[5330.76 --> 5330.96] can -[5330.96 --> 5331.16] do -[5331.16 --> 5331.58] it -[5331.58 --> 5334.76] now -[5334.76 --> 5334.98] like -[5334.98 --> 5335.30] you -[5335.30 --> 5336.32] I -[5336.32 --> 5336.52] have -[5336.52 --> 5336.90] people -[5336.90 --> 5337.14] in -[5337.14 --> 5337.32] my -[5337.32 --> 5337.82] life -[5337.82 --> 5339.06] for -[5339.06 --> 5339.52] whom -[5339.52 --> 5340.48] I -[5340.48 --> 5341.32] need -[5341.32 --> 5341.78] this -[5341.78 --> 5342.40] to be -[5342.40 --> 5342.76] true -[5342.76 --> 5343.28] of -[5343.28 --> 5343.68] God -[5343.68 --> 5344.28] and -[5344.28 --> 5344.38] of -[5344.38 --> 5344.50] what -[5344.50 --> 5344.60] he -[5344.60 --> 5344.80] does -[5344.80 --> 5344.90] in -[5344.90 --> 5345.00] the -[5345.00 --> 5345.22] world -[5345.22 --> 5347.20] like -[5347.20 --> 5347.60] you -[5347.60 --> 5348.04] right -[5348.04 --> 5348.20] and -[5348.20 --> 5348.58] like -[5348.58 --> 5348.88] all -[5348.88 --> 5349.10] of -[5349.10 --> 5349.42] us -[5349.42 --> 5349.94] we -[5349.94 --> 5350.34] have -[5350.34 --> 5351.04] people -[5351.04 --> 5351.36] in -[5351.36 --> 5351.56] our -[5351.56 --> 5352.04] lives -[5352.04 --> 5352.20] who -[5352.20 --> 5352.72] this -[5352.72 --> 5353.18] is -[5353.18 --> 5353.42] the -[5353.42 --> 5353.72] only -[5353.72 --> 5354.02] hope -[5354.02 --> 5354.14] that -[5354.14 --> 5354.26] we -[5354.26 --> 5354.48] have -[5354.48 --> 5354.82] left -[5354.82 --> 5355.36] this -[5355.36 --> 5355.72] is -[5355.72 --> 5355.98] our -[5355.98 --> 5356.38] prayer -[5356.38 --> 5360.16] and -[5360.16 --> 5360.40] when -[5360.40 --> 5360.64] you -[5360.64 --> 5361.04] pray -[5361.04 --> 5362.66] know -[5362.66 --> 5363.68] that -[5363.68 --> 5364.36] God -[5364.36 --> 5365.30] can -[5365.30 --> 5366.04] do -[5366.04 --> 5366.36] it -[5366.36 --> 5367.16] because -[5367.16 --> 5367.50] God -[5367.50 --> 5367.74] is -[5367.74 --> 5368.16] God -[5368.16 --> 5368.68] and -[5368.68 --> 5369.02] God -[5369.02 --> 5369.62] is -[5369.62 --> 5370.28] sovereign -[5370.28 --> 5371.40] now -[5371.40 --> 5371.54] you -[5371.54 --> 5371.78] might -[5371.78 --> 5371.96] be -[5371.96 --> 5372.14] here -[5372.14 --> 5372.40] this -[5372.40 --> 5372.78] morning -[5372.78 --> 5374.24] needing -[5374.24 --> 5374.72] this -[5374.72 --> 5374.98] to -[5374.98 --> 5375.20] be -[5375.20 --> 5375.58] true -[5375.58 --> 5377.34] you -[5377.34 --> 5377.56] might -[5377.56 --> 5377.74] be -[5377.74 --> 5377.90] here -[5377.90 --> 5378.18] this -[5378.18 --> 5378.56] morning -[5378.56 --> 5379.82] on -[5379.82 --> 5380.02] the -[5380.02 --> 5380.34] cusp -[5380.34 --> 5380.72] of -[5380.72 --> 5381.22] rejection -[5381.22 --> 5381.58] or -[5381.58 --> 5381.98] standing -[5381.98 --> 5382.46] firmly -[5382.46 --> 5382.80] in -[5382.80 --> 5383.34] rejection -[5383.34 --> 5384.20] and -[5384.20 --> 5384.38] you're -[5384.38 --> 5384.68] here -[5384.68 --> 5385.06] because -[5385.06 --> 5385.48] the -[5385.48 --> 5385.76] person -[5385.76 --> 5386.14] beside -[5386.14 --> 5386.34] you -[5386.34 --> 5386.64] said -[5386.64 --> 5386.86] we -[5386.86 --> 5387.10] have -[5387.10 --> 5387.22] to -[5387.22 --> 5387.34] go -[5387.34 --> 5387.48] to -[5387.48 --> 5387.70] church -[5387.70 --> 5387.92] this -[5387.92 --> 5388.14] morning -[5388.14 --> 5388.34] and -[5388.34 --> 5388.56] that's -[5388.56 --> 5388.68] what -[5388.68 --> 5388.82] our -[5388.82 --> 5389.12] family -[5389.12 --> 5389.56] does -[5389.56 --> 5390.64] but -[5390.64 --> 5390.74] if -[5390.74 --> 5391.00] that's -[5391.00 --> 5391.42] you -[5391.42 --> 5395.92] if -[5395.92 --> 5396.22] that's -[5396.22 --> 5396.42] you -[5396.42 --> 5396.64] I -[5396.64 --> 5397.08] plead -[5397.08 --> 5398.36] like -[5398.36 --> 5398.74] Paul -[5398.74 --> 5400.48] reject -[5400.48 --> 5401.30] your -[5401.30 --> 5401.90] rejection -[5401.90 --> 5403.30] if -[5403.30 --> 5403.54] that's -[5403.54 --> 5403.70] you -[5403.70 --> 5404.16] doubt -[5404.16 --> 5404.72] your -[5404.72 --> 5405.24] doubts -[5405.24 --> 5406.64] if -[5406.64 --> 5406.98] that's -[5406.98 --> 5407.20] you -[5407.20 --> 5407.70] come -[5407.70 --> 5408.24] to -[5408.24 --> 5408.76] Jesus -[5408.76 --> 5409.28] this -[5409.28 --> 5409.84] Jesus -[5409.84 --> 5410.46] here -[5410.46 --> 5411.16] come -[5411.16 --> 5411.52] in the -[5411.52 --> 5412.30] truth -[5412.30 --> 5412.66] and the -[5412.66 --> 5413.06] power -[5413.06 --> 5413.84] and the -[5413.84 --> 5414.26] hope -[5414.26 --> 5414.84] of the -[5414.84 --> 5415.26] sovereignty -[5415.26 --> 5415.76] of God -[5415.76 --> 5416.30] come -[5416.30 --> 5416.84] because -[5416.84 --> 5417.46] today -[5417.46 --> 5418.08] his -[5418.08 --> 5418.54] purposes -[5418.54 --> 5418.82] in -[5418.82 --> 5419.20] election -[5419.20 --> 5419.82] are to -[5419.82 --> 5419.96] be -[5419.96 --> 5420.26] fulfilled -[5420.26 --> 5420.56] in your -[5420.56 --> 5420.92] life -[5420.92 --> 5424.32] come -[5424.32 --> 5425.02] to -[5425.02 --> 5425.38] Jesus -[5425.38 --> 5425.88] that -[5425.88 --> 5426.28] you -[5426.28 --> 5427.38] may -[5427.38 --> 5428.56] have -[5428.56 --> 5430.00] life -[5430.00 --> 5432.22] come -[5432.22 --> 5433.60] to -[5433.60 --> 5433.92] him -[5433.92 --> 5435.38] amen -[5435.38 --> 5436.98] let's -[5436.98 --> 5437.22] pray -[5437.22 --> 5441.52] Lord -[5441.52 --> 5441.84] Jesus -[5441.84 --> 5443.12] we -[5443.12 --> 5443.66] come -[5443.66 --> 5444.78] to -[5444.78 --> 5445.12] you -[5445.12 --> 5448.40] Lord -[5448.40 --> 5448.68] Jesus -[5448.68 --> 5449.08] we -[5449.08 --> 5450.16] come -[5450.16 --> 5450.90] to -[5450.90 --> 5451.26] you -[5451.26 --> 5453.44] not -[5453.44 --> 5453.72] because -[5453.72 --> 5453.92] we -[5453.92 --> 5454.38] have -[5454.38 --> 5454.94] all -[5454.94 --> 5455.10] the -[5455.10 --> 5455.52] answers -[5455.52 --> 5455.90] far -[5455.90 --> 5456.16] from -[5456.16 --> 5456.32] it -[5456.32 --> 5456.50] we -[5456.50 --> 5456.66] come -[5456.66 --> 5456.78] to -[5456.78 --> 5456.88] you -[5456.88 --> 5457.14] because -[5457.14 --> 5457.46] you -[5457.46 --> 5457.80] are -[5457.80 --> 5458.02] the -[5458.02 --> 5458.38] only -[5458.38 --> 5458.80] answer -[5458.80 --> 5459.02] that -[5459.02 --> 5459.44] matters -[5459.44 --> 5461.72] we -[5461.72 --> 5461.88] come -[5461.88 --> 5462.00] to -[5462.00 --> 5462.10] you -[5462.10 --> 5462.28] not -[5462.28 --> 5462.56] because -[5462.56 --> 5462.76] we -[5462.76 --> 5462.94] have -[5462.94 --> 5463.28] figured -[5463.28 --> 5463.76] out -[5463.76 --> 5464.90] the -[5464.90 --> 5465.28] how -[5465.28 --> 5465.52] and -[5465.52 --> 5465.66] the -[5465.66 --> 5465.98] why -[5465.98 --> 5467.58] we -[5467.58 --> 5467.72] come -[5467.72 --> 5467.84] to -[5467.84 --> 5467.98] you -[5467.98 --> 5468.28] because -[5468.28 --> 5468.60] we -[5468.60 --> 5469.30] can't -[5469.30 --> 5469.88] and -[5469.88 --> 5470.04] we -[5470.04 --> 5470.58] haven't -[5470.58 --> 5470.74] and -[5470.74 --> 5470.94] so -[5470.94 --> 5471.18] we -[5471.18 --> 5471.76] need -[5471.76 --> 5472.18] you -[5472.18 --> 5472.80] sovereign -[5472.80 --> 5473.76] God -[5473.76 --> 5477.76] Lord -[5477.76 --> 5477.88] our -[5477.88 --> 5478.04] God -[5478.04 --> 5478.22] we -[5478.22 --> 5478.46] come -[5478.46 --> 5478.66] to -[5478.66 --> 5478.88] you -[5478.88 --> 5479.20] because -[5479.20 --> 5479.44] you -[5479.44 --> 5479.88] first -[5479.88 --> 5480.32] came -[5480.32 --> 5480.92] to -[5480.92 --> 5481.30] us -[5481.30 --> 5481.60] we -[5481.60 --> 5481.80] come -[5481.80 --> 5481.98] to -[5481.98 --> 5482.26] you -[5482.26 --> 5482.62] because -[5482.62 --> 5482.90] your -[5482.90 --> 5483.44] purposes -[5483.44 --> 5484.10] in -[5484.10 --> 5484.52] election -[5484.52 --> 5485.34] stand -[5485.34 --> 5485.98] we -[5485.98 --> 5486.28] come -[5486.28 --> 5486.52] to -[5486.52 --> 5486.88] you -[5486.88 --> 5488.44] because -[5488.44 --> 5488.70] you -[5488.70 --> 5488.96] are -[5488.96 --> 5489.54] worthy -[5489.54 --> 5490.86] to -[5490.86 --> 5491.06] be -[5491.06 --> 5491.44] praised -[5491.44 --> 5492.64] and -[5492.64 --> 5492.94] so -[5492.94 --> 5493.26] Lord -[5493.26 --> 5493.50] God -[5493.50 --> 5494.06] turn -[5494.06 --> 5494.54] our -[5494.54 --> 5495.46] doctrines -[5495.46 --> 5496.08] into -[5496.08 --> 5496.64] dancing -[5496.64 --> 5497.10] turn -[5497.10 --> 5497.44] our -[5497.44 --> 5498.28] theology -[5498.28 --> 5498.96] into -[5498.96 --> 5500.00] doxology -[5500.00 --> 5503.38] turn -[5503.38 --> 5503.68] these -[5503.68 --> 5504.44] truths -[5504.44 --> 5504.80] of -[5504.80 --> 5505.04] your -[5505.04 --> 5505.54] word -[5505.54 --> 5506.52] into -[5506.52 --> 5507.42] praises -[5507.42 --> 5507.96] on -[5507.96 --> 5508.28] our -[5508.28 --> 5508.66] lips -[5508.66 --> 5509.00] as -[5509.00 --> 5509.20] we -[5509.20 --> 5509.46] go -[5509.46 --> 5509.86] from -[5509.86 --> 5510.24] this -[5510.24 --> 5510.72] place -[5510.72 --> 5511.46] going -[5511.46 --> 5511.74] in -[5511.74 --> 5511.88] the -[5511.88 --> 5512.30] power -[5512.30 --> 5512.62] of -[5512.62 --> 5512.82] your -[5512.82 --> 5513.12] Holy -[5513.12 --> 5513.54] Spirit -[5513.54 --> 5514.82] all -[5514.82 --> 5515.08] God's -[5515.08 --> 5515.24] people -[5515.24 --> 5515.56] said -[5515.56 --> 5516.86] amen -[5516.86 --> 5518.34] We -[5518.46 --> 5519.78] begin -[5519.78 --> 5519.80] . -[5520.80 --> 5521.04] Amen -[5521.04 --> 5522.06] . -[5522.06 --> 5527.12] Joy -[5536.00 --> 5538.34] Is -[5538.34 --> 5539.14] true -[5539.14 --> 5539.18] slain -[5539.18 --> 5544.06] or -[5544.06 --> 5553.28] The throne is solid, the mighty rock on which we build. -[5553.28 --> 5564.44] In every mind the truth is found, in every page is glory filled. -[5564.44 --> 5577.56] Through faith alone we come to you, we have no merit in vain. -[5577.56 --> 5588.74] Sure that your promises are true, it is a hope in Jesus' name. -[5588.74 --> 5597.18] Gloria, Gloria, Gloria to God. -[5597.18 --> 5608.30] Gloria, Gloria, Gloria to God. -[5608.30 --> 5627.52] In Christ alone we're justified, His righteousness is all our key. -[5627.52 --> 5637.52] Your God's been lent us by His blood, His perfect work has set us free. -[5637.52 --> 5647.52] Gloria, Gloria, Gloria to God. -[5647.52 --> 5656.52] Gloria, Gloria, Gloria to God. -[5656.52 --> 5666.52] Gloria, Gloria, Gloria. -[5666.52 --> 5677.58] By grace alone we have been saved, all that we are has come from you. -[5677.58 --> 5688.18] Hearts that were once by sin had saved, now by your power have been made new. -[5688.18 --> 5697.18] Gloria, Gloria, Gloria to God. -[5697.18 --> 5707.18] Gloria, Gloria, Gloria to God. -[5707.18 --> 5719.18] Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria to God. -[5719.18 --> 5732.18] Gloria, Gloria, Gloria to God. -[5732.18 --> 5747.18] Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria, Gloria. -[5747.18 --> 5751.86] Before we go, we go in and with the blessing of God. -[5752.00 --> 5757.44] And as we do, know that if you would like prayer, there are people available for that. -[5757.60 --> 5761.72] Someone will come up here, they'll have a name tag on with a little yellow square on it. -[5761.72 --> 5763.72] They would love to meet you and pray. -[5763.72 --> 5766.96] But of course, invite you in your conversations afterwards. -[5766.96 --> 5775.36] If God has laid something on your heart to pray with someone or pray over someone in your life and ask for prayer on that. -[5776.28 --> 5779.94] All of us here are capable to pray in that regard. -[5780.42 --> 5785.54] And so even with coffee in hand, invite someone to pray with you. -[5786.26 --> 5788.80] Go then with the blessing of our God. -[5791.72 --> 5794.34] God goes before you to lead you. -[5795.06 --> 5797.30] God go behind you to protect you. -[5798.04 --> 5800.02] God go beneath you to support you. -[5800.10 --> 5802.88] And God go beside you to befriend you. -[5803.20 --> 5805.06] Do not be afraid. -[5805.70 --> 5807.78] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5807.92 --> 5809.68] Do not be afraid. -[5809.68 --> 5815.16] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5815.96 --> 5816.58] Amen. -[5816.58 --> 5816.72] Amen. -[5816.72 --> 5816.76] Amen. -[5816.76 --> 5816.78] Amen. -[5816.78 --> 5816.80] Amen. -[5816.80 --> 5816.82] Amen. -[5821.72 --> 5847.16] Praise the Lord. -[5847.16 --> 5848.16] breathe. -[5848.16 --> 5852.54] Lub natürlich. -[5852.54 --> 5858.04] Father in indianos. -[5858.18 --> 5864.90] In His shield um. -[5864.90 --> 5872.04] I believe from all my sin and shame. -[5872.04 --> 5876.24] my sin and shame -[5876.24 --> 5881.36] now and forever -[5881.36 --> 5887.12] praise His holy name -[5887.12 --> 5892.46] praise His holy name -[5892.46 --> 5899.04] praise His holy name -[5899.04 --> 5902.80] new God in the glory -[5902.80 --> 5905.60] now and forever -[5905.60 --> 5911.30] praise His holy name -[5911.30 --> 5916.56] praise the Lord -[5916.56 --> 5921.22] the new home that sins come -[5921.22 --> 5928.34] He has washed and -[5928.34 --> 5933.54] gave me life and soul -[5933.54 --> 5937.08] I believe -[5937.08 --> 5943.94] of all my sin and shame -[5943.94 --> 5948.90] now and forever -[5948.90 --> 5954.60] praise His holy name -[5954.60 --> 5959.80] praise His holy name -[5959.80 --> 5966.34] praise His holy name -[5966.34 --> 5970.12] to God Jesus glory -[5970.12 --> 5972.30] now and forever -[5972.30 --> 5977.34] praise His holy name -[5977.34 --> 5982.54] praise His holy name -[5982.54 --> 5986.08] praise His holy name -[5986.08 --> 5989.08] praise His holy name -[5989.08 --> 5993.54] to God be the glory -[5993.54 --> 5996.54] now and forever -[5996.54 --> 5999.08] praise His holy name -[5999.08 --> 6004.28] praise His holy name -[6004.28 --> 6005.18] praise His holy name -[6005.18 --> 6005.82] praise His holy name -[6005.82 --> 6035.80] Thank you. -[6035.82 --> 6065.80] Thank you. -[6065.82 --> 6095.80] Thank you. -[6095.82 --> 6125.80] Thank you. -[6125.82 --> 6155.80] Thank you. -[6155.82 --> 6185.80] Thank you. -[6185.82 --> 6215.80] Thank you. -[6215.82 --> 6245.80] Thank you. -[6245.82 --> 6275.80] Thank you. -[6275.82 --> 6305.80] Thank you. -[6305.82 --> 6335.80] Thank you. -[6335.82 --> 6365.80] Thank you. -[6365.82 --> 6395.80] Thank you. diff --git "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 5, 2023_summary.txt" "b/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 5, 2023_summary.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index b3ef340a46a0dfd1d5717a73e35d3c4bded3fd68..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 5, 2023_summary.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,149 +0,0 @@ -• Searching for something real -• Losing one's soul and identity -• Chasing out things that don't lead to a meaningful life -• Longing for a connection with someone or something -• Fear of losing oneself in the unknown -• The importance of faith and trust in navigating uncertainty -• Struggling with fear and doubt despite trying to have faith -• Upcoming church events: Youth coffee, Christmas social -• Invitations for women to participate in Christmas decorations and social event -• Sign-up sheets available at back of the room or online -• Information about hosting youth coffee at home -• Call for volunteers to help with various community activities -• Discussion of ways to get Emmanuel Church more involved in the community -• A breakfast program was started at H.D. Stafford Middle school with initial plans for two mornings a month but ultimately expanded to four mornings a month due to sufficient volunteer participation. -• The coordinator of the downtown Langley area's breakfast and lunch programs has requested assistance in creating 10 Christmas hampers for the Nicomackal Elementary School, a needy area. -• Volunteers are needed from families, groups of friends, care groups, or individuals to supply the hampers with requested family sizes and suggested items. -• Contact information is provided for Marlene Bilinga, who can be reached by phone or text at 604-789-6472 or after the service. -• Praise and worship of God -• Jesus Christ's sacrifice on the cross -• The glory of God and His majesty -• The coming of Christ and the joy it will bring -• Confession of sins and asking for mercy -• Prayer for cleansing from sin and renewal of spirit -• Reference to Psalm 51 -• Psalm-like prayers and petitions for a clean heart, right spirit, and restoration of joy -• Confession of sins and resolution to lead a new life, with forgiveness through Christ Jesus -• Hope for final coming and resurrection, joining saints and angels in heaven -• Longing for heavenly air, pain-free existence, and mercy-filled streets -• Glorification of God, Holy Spirit, and Lamb who was slain, with worship and praise -• Description of a future day when all will bow before Him, death will be no more, and faces will stand face to face -• Reflections on resurrection, heroes of faith, and worship together -• Visits to seafarers to share the good news of God's love in Jesus Christ -• Providing literature and other resources to seafarers -• Serving seafarers at the seafarers center through quality Christian dialogue and practical help -• Financial struggles due to a decrease in support from classes, requiring increased reliance on church offerings -• Upcoming special collection for world renewed refugee sponsorship and resettlement -• Song of ages sung with lyrics praising God's name as highest and greatest above all else -• Invitation by Amy Huberts to preschoolers to grade 4 to participate in Children's Worship -• Children's worship time theme: God's kindness brings people together -• Discussion of Moses and his experiences with kindness -• Use of dominoes as an analogy for how acts of kindness can affect many people -• Congregational prayer, led by John, the elder of the church -• Prayer requests for: - • Jaredina Johnson's granddaughter Christina, diagnosed with lupus - • Ken Hoko's sister Magna, with stage 4 cancer - • Greta Kapper's mom and Nikki's grandmother, who recently lost loved ones - • Morgue Kunst's family, grieving the loss of her father -• Prayer for the community to support families experiencing loss -• Prayers for peace and an end to conflicts (Ukraine, Israel/Palestinians) -• Request for blessings on upcoming Lord's Supper service and Pastor Chris' preaching -• Intercession for member of church family dealing with recurring cancer -• Biblical verse referencing God's goodness and unfailing love -• Reflection on turning to God for strength during difficult times -• Call to share faith with others in daily life -• The Israelites' zeal for God is misguided because it's not based on knowledge. -• Christ is the culmination of the law and brings righteousness to those who believe. -• The righteousness that comes from faith requires declaring Jesus as Lord with one's mouth and believing in their heart that he was raised from the dead. -• There is no difference between Jew and Gentile; all can be saved by calling on the name of the Lord. -• The speaker reflects on what the church will look like for future generations, particularly Gen Alpha and teenagers. -• He ponders how decisions and ministry directions will help Langley Emanuel grow younger. -• The church is at risk of extinction if it doesn't adapt to new generations -• A Reformed Christian perspective argues that God always has a remnant and Christ will never be without subjects -• However, this does not promise the continuation of a specific church -• Young people leave the church because the faith has been exchanged for soft morality or a hard definition of living in the world -• The faith is often seen as lacking in changing lives and hearts, making it unattractive to younger generations -• The pastor believes that by exploring the teachings of Paul, they can challenge these assumptions and encourage deeper faith. -• Paul is writing to a group of Christians he has not met, who are part of a church he did not found -• The majority of Christians who repent and believe are not Jewish, causing Paul's Jewish heart to be broken -• Paul argues that having every advantage and opportunity does not guarantee salvation -• A spiritual identity that matters is one held by a sovereign God, where election means God chooses and makes us able to choose in response -• Salvation cannot depend on human desire or effort, but rather on God's mercy -• The concept that salvation cannot be achieved through human effort alone -• The idea that humans are inherently unable to seek God or do good -• The role of God's mercy in salvation, emphasizing regeneration as a divine work -• The biblical basis for regeneration, including Titus 3:5 and John 3:3-7 -• Belief is not achieved through works, but rather as God's gift to those who are born again -• Regeneration precedes faith, and it is not in response to anything one does, but rather due to God's mercy and choice -• This concept has been a core doctrine of the Reformed Church throughout its history -• The idea that regeneration precedes faith was a key point of contention in various theological debates throughout history, including those between Augustine and Pelagius, and John Wesley -• Jonathan Edwards' exchange with Lord Kames about the interpretation of a doctrine -• Discussion on the relationship between regeneration, faith, and the vitality of the Christian church -• Paul's statement in verse 30 connecting regeneration preceding faith -• Connection between not pursuing righteousness and obtaining it through faith by grace -• Faith being given rather than made or worked out, and belief coming after regeneration -• Distinction between spiritual and non-spiritual descendants of Abraham -• Pursuit of righteousness through law vs. faith -• The failure to attain goal due to pursuing law as a way of righteousness rather than by faith -• Modern misconception that doing good deeds or attending church earns favor with God -• Paul's statement that people have not attained their goal, implying that faith is necessary for attaining true righteousness and the kingdom of heaven. -• Coming to church as a means of balancing obedience and disobedience -• Using good deeds to justify past mistakes or bad behavior -• Pursuing righteousness through works rather than faith -• The difference between being a Christian and simply doing Christian things -• Missing the true meaning of Christianity, like the Israelites missed Jesus -• The importance of being a Christian with Christ -• Faith from regeneration vs. faith that is not from God -• Paul's heart for the Israelites to be saved and his prayer for them -• Zeal for God without knowledge or submission to His righteousness -• Plea to pray for those who do not know Jesus -• Modeling responsibility in prayer -• The importance of praying for the conversion and regeneration of others -• Examples from Scripture of prayers that have shaped history, such as Daniel's prayer and Ezra's prayer -• The motivation behind prayer and its necessity for God to act -• Prayer changing hearts and shaping history -• Recognizing one's own responsibility in salvation through prayer -• The importance of a church being "on mission" and making new disciples -• Asking how churches pray and if they have settled for a "vaguely Christian morality" instead of a "deeply spirit-filled, transformed life" -• The distinction between acting Christianly vs. having regeneration through the gospel -• The power of the gospel to change lives and transform people, citing examples of individuals with troubled pasts being redeemed -• Encouraging listeners to affirm that God can raise spiritually dead people to newness of life -• The speaker discusses how various perspectives, including politics and culture, try to achieve righteousness but ultimately fall short. -• They note that Christ's culmination of the law brings true righteousness for those who believe. -• The speaker compares different approaches to achieving goodness, including progressivism's tolerance, conservatism's legislation, and Christianity's faith in Christ. -• A passage from Romans is read, highlighting the distinction between righteousness by law and righteousness by faith. -• The message of salvation through Jesus Christ is emphasized, with a focus on believing in one's heart and professing faith with one's mouth. -• Regeneration precedes faith -• Responsibility to respond to regeneration through declaration, belief, and profession of faith -• Acts of faith include declaring, believing, professing, and calling on the name of the Lord -• Response to regeneration is a choice, not what saves you -• There are two orders: logical decree of God and historical chronological order of that decree being worked out in history -• The importance of professing, believing, and calling on the name of the Lord -• The lack of difference between Jew and Gentile in receiving God's mercy and the same Lord being Lord of all -• The guarantee of salvation for those who call on the name of the Lord -• The distinction between a "Christian morality" and a "spirit-filled life" -• The potential consequences of settling for niceness or legalism instead of living a regenerate life -• The importance of regeneration preceding faith in the gospel truth that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved -• Prayer for transformation of the church and world -• Confession of sin and need for gospel renewal -• Commitment to prayer and obedience to God's will -• Hope in Christ for life, death, and salvation -• Trust in God's sovereignty and power -• Praise and worship of God through singing -• Prayer and praise to God -• Expression of faith in Christ's blood and redemption -• Discussion of hope in life, death, and eternal life with Christ -• Reflection on sin, death, and restoration through Christ -• Reminder about midweek memos and email sign-up for church members -• Upcoming night of prayer within the next two weeks -• Finalizing details for the event -• Importance of coming together in prayer and living into response -• Role of worship team and availability for prayer -• Encouragement to pray with others, including those with yellow name tags -• Offer to chat at connect booth during week -• Blessing and protection from God as individuals go about their week -• Praise and worship of God -• Declaration of unity and purpose among the redeemed -• Expression of gratitude and thanksgiving to God -• Use of repetition for emphasis, specifically "Be to our God forever and ever" -• Closing with a final "Amen" and thanks \ No newline at end of file diff --git "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 5, 2023_transcript.txt" "b/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 5, 2023_transcript.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index 632c5a730e2ddb39871c025fccb66b1e875a5e13..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/Sunday Worship \357\275\234 November 5, 2023_transcript.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2822 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 20.00] I've been sick and tired -[20.00 --> 23.70] Being sick and tired -[23.70 --> 27.54] Searching far and wide -[27.54 --> 31.20] Something that feels real -[31.20 --> 35.08] Something that feels real -[35.08 --> 37.70] And I don't wanna lose my soul -[37.70 --> 41.02] Chasing out the things that don't lead me -[41.02 --> 42.82] Trained to you -[42.82 --> 47.52] And I'm lost in a feeling -[47.52 --> 54.80] That I came from this world -[54.80 --> 58.08] But going back to Eden -[58.08 --> 60.26] Ain't gonna be easy -[60.26 --> 63.88] But at least be straight to you -[63.88 --> 66.02] And I'm running a move -[66.02 --> 68.56] Like the particle -[68.56 --> 74.44] I don't need the money -[74.44 --> 78.76] I don't want the faith -[78.76 --> 83.78] I don't want what I can't take with me -[83.78 --> 85.94] In the grave -[85.94 --> 88.62] Oh and I don't wanna lose my soul -[88.62 --> 91.90] Chasing out the things that don't lead me -[91.90 --> 93.72] Trained to you -[93.72 --> 98.44] And I'm lost in a feeling -[98.44 --> 105.72] That I came from this world -[105.72 --> 109.00] And going back to Eden -[109.00 --> 111.14] Ain't gonna be easy -[111.14 --> 114.80] But at least be straight to you -[114.80 --> 116.46] And I'm running a move -[116.46 --> 119.46] Like the particle -[119.46 --> 124.96] I don't wanna lose my soul -[124.96 --> 128.08] Chasing out the things that don't lead me -[128.08 --> 130.08] Trained to you -[130.08 --> 132.26] And I don't wanna lose my gaze -[132.26 --> 134.06] When I meet you face to face -[134.06 --> 136.16] Well done, well, come on -[136.16 --> 138.74] Now I'm running a move -[138.74 --> 141.28] Like the particle -[141.28 --> 146.28] I'm lost in a feeling -[146.28 --> 148.28] I don't want to lose my soul -[148.28 --> 149.44] And I'm lost in a feeling -[149.44 --> 153.28] That I came from this world -[153.28 --> 156.28] And going back to Eden -[156.28 --> 158.28] Ain't gonna be easy -[158.28 --> 160.28] But at least be straight to you -[160.28 --> 162.28] And I'm running a move -[162.28 --> 164.28] Like the particle -[164.28 --> 170.28] Lost in a feeling -[170.28 --> 171.62] Was a girl -[171.62 --> 172.54] I'm lost in a feeling -[172.54 --> 175.10] But at least be straight to you -[175.10 --> 175.20] I'm running a move -[175.20 --> 177.56] Like the particle -[177.56 --> 181.50] Lost in a feeling -[181.50 --> 182.60] It's a girl -[182.60 --> 183.44] Baite to Imagine -[183.44 --> 185.48] I'm running a move -[185.48 --> 186.60] I ain't gonna be easy -[186.60 --> 187.32] Grey -[187.32 --> 187.82] posição -[187.82 --> 190.10] 女 who -[190.10 --> 192.02] What Maryland -[192.02 --> 192.54] Laugh -[192.54 --> 193.38] Aww -[193.38 --> 194.04] Alle -[194.04 --> 195.26] All -[195.26 --> 196.08] Part your -[196.08 --> 196.40] derni -[200.28 --> 215.26] I have been working on the ways that I lose my head. -[215.26 --> 220.64] Sometimes I just can't keep it together. -[220.64 --> 228.54] I keep trying to soldier on, trying to put it in a song. -[228.54 --> 232.58] let's press the button for 10 minutes -[232.80 --> 235.72] no matter how fast he is -[238.56 --> 242.00] first with two minutes -[242.24 --> 245.54] on the dip heute -[245.74 --> 249.40] we found the same way -[250.34 --> 253.78] in Farewell -[254.22 --> 257.66] 2 minutes -[257.66 --> 274.90] I'm just trying to understand. -[274.90 --> 278.34] Is there some master plan? -[278.94 --> 283.26] Cause I've got so many questions. -[283.26 --> 287.66] Am I, am I the only one? -[287.66 --> 291.06] Just like this ladder's missing rocks. -[291.06 --> 295.78] Cause I can't find a way to climb. -[295.78 --> 296.78] Yeah. -[296.78 --> 312.38] Stepping out onto the water. -[313.26 --> 316.66] Not sure if you'll sink or stand. -[316.66 --> 319.66] I think fear's pretty normal. -[319.66 --> 322.66] When you've only ever walked on land. -[322.66 --> 325.98] Cause to leap into the unknown. -[325.98 --> 328.98] Is to walk by faith, not sign. -[328.98 --> 332.78] We all get scared or we don't know. -[332.78 --> 335.02] But maybe that's alright. -[335.02 --> 338.42] Faith is like a free fall sometimes. -[338.42 --> 344.42] I guess I still freak out sometimes. -[344.42 --> 350.90] Your faith is like a free fall sometimes. -[350.90 --> 358.42] I guess I still get scared sometimes. -[358.42 --> 359.82] I guess what you like to goी a little bit so man. -[359.82 --> 361.82] What it was like to go to speed to Perd Sprint. -[361.82 --> 367.26] It has freeI like a strong relationship of You. -[367.26 --> 371.74] Sement of the needle since those lines are bright due to a..." -[371.74 --> 373.66] Analysis of learningventional so well. -[373.66 --> 375.82] Yes. -[375.82 --> 388.80] Faith is like a freefall sometimes -[388.80 --> 394.98] I guess I still freak out sometimes -[394.98 --> 401.04] Faith is like a freefall sometimes -[401.04 --> 407.36] I guess I still get scared sometimes -[407.36 --> 410.58] Maybe that's alright -[431.04 --> 461.02] I guess I still get scared sometimes -[461.02 --> 468.02] I guess I still get scared sometimes -[468.02 --> 475.02] I guess I still get scared sometimes -[475.02 --> 478.82] Sometimes you gotta look at the wonder -[478.82 --> 481.02] Wait for the answer -[481.02 --> 484.18] When you're chill with your hands in the air -[484.18 --> 486.02] I'll praise you anyway -[486.02 --> 489.14] Praise, give him praise, give him praise -[489.14 --> 493.58] Give him praise, give him praise -[493.58 --> 498.14] And I, as he is worthy -[498.14 --> 505.14] Yes, he is worthy of all of the praise -[505.14 --> 507.94] Two. -[508.14 --> 512.18] Good morning. -[512.18 --> 512.44] Good morning. -[514.10 --> 516.60] Welcome to church. -[516.80 --> 518.22] Even as people are filing in -[518.22 --> 520.40] Let me just offer you a special welcome. -[520.92 --> 522.48] If you're a guest with us this morning -[522.48 --> 523.72] Or if this is the first time -[523.72 --> 525.84] We're really excited that you are here -[525.84 --> 527.90] And we would love to connect with you -[527.90 --> 529.82] And so you can find me -[529.82 --> 530.66] My name is Chris -[530.66 --> 533.56] I'm one of the pastors here at Emanuel -[533.56 --> 535.74] You can find me after service in the foyer -[535.74 --> 537.86] I'll be by the Connect booth over there -[537.86 --> 539.60] Or in your seats -[539.60 --> 541.26] There's a Connect card -[541.26 --> 542.96] You're welcome to fill one of those out -[542.96 --> 544.38] There's a QR code on there -[544.38 --> 546.00] If you want to scan that and do it digitally -[546.00 --> 547.64] We'd love to connect with you -[547.64 --> 550.52] Before we begin our worship together -[550.52 --> 551.76] We have a couple announcements -[551.76 --> 552.90] For the community -[552.90 --> 554.64] And for things that are happening here -[554.64 --> 557.32] And so I'm going to invite Linda Molenkamp -[557.32 --> 558.12] To the front -[558.12 --> 560.62] And as she's making her way up -[560.62 --> 561.74] Let me just say that -[561.74 --> 564.00] After worship today -[564.00 --> 566.08] There is youth coffee -[566.08 --> 568.26] And so the youth ministry -[568.26 --> 569.36] Which is grade 8 -[569.36 --> 571.78] Through the end of high school-ish -[571.78 --> 573.08] They're gracious -[573.08 --> 576.02] Are going to be going to the Skipper's house -[576.02 --> 578.30] John and Fran, raise your hand -[578.30 --> 579.62] If you don't know where that is -[579.62 --> 580.80] That's the Skipper's -[580.80 --> 582.04] They'll help you get that -[582.04 --> 583.30] Going to the Skipper's house -[583.30 --> 584.40] For coffee and lunch -[584.40 --> 586.00] After worship today -[586.00 --> 587.20] If you have any questions about it -[587.20 --> 588.38] You can talk to Pastor Kevin -[588.38 --> 592.74] Also, youth coffee happens once a month -[592.74 --> 594.64] If you're interested in hosting that -[594.64 --> 596.26] If you'd like to have the youth at your house -[596.26 --> 597.46] Talk to Pastor Kevin -[597.46 --> 599.54] He'd love to get you signed up for that -[599.54 --> 600.90] Linda -[600.90 --> 602.38] Good morning -[602.38 --> 603.70] I'm Linda and I'm a part of the -[603.70 --> 605.00] Women's ministry team -[605.00 --> 606.92] And we are super excited -[606.92 --> 609.20] To be planning our Christmas social -[609.20 --> 612.04] It is planned for Friday, November -[612.04 --> 613.50] December, not November -[613.50 --> 615.64] December the 1st -[615.64 --> 618.24] We invite all women of all ages -[618.24 --> 620.66] Sorry men, you're not invited to this one -[620.66 --> 623.26] We like to party without you once in a while -[623.26 --> 624.80] You can -[624.80 --> 627.20] You're more than welcome to invite your family -[627.20 --> 628.54] Your friends, your co-workers -[628.54 --> 630.84] For this evening of fellowship and fun -[630.84 --> 633.56] You can sign up -[633.56 --> 635.06] There's a sign up sheet at the back -[635.06 --> 636.10] Of the table -[636.10 --> 637.24] If you want more information -[637.24 --> 638.34] Come talk to us -[638.34 --> 640.26] There's also an invitation -[640.26 --> 641.48] In your mailbox -[641.48 --> 642.60] With an email address -[642.60 --> 643.76] That you can sign up on -[643.76 --> 646.18] Now back by popular demand -[646.18 --> 647.98] Last year we had tables -[647.98 --> 649.70] That were set up in Christmas theme -[649.70 --> 650.72] And winter theme -[650.72 --> 652.18] And it went over so well -[652.18 --> 653.34] We had women say -[653.34 --> 654.28] Can you do this again? -[654.36 --> 656.06] Because I have a great plan for this year -[656.06 --> 658.30] So if you'd like to decorate a table -[658.30 --> 660.68] There's also a sign up sheet in the back -[660.68 --> 662.04] And there's some photos from last year -[662.04 --> 662.90] To give you an idea -[662.90 --> 664.92] So come visit us after church -[664.92 --> 666.80] And we'll give you some more information -[666.80 --> 667.70] Thank you -[667.70 --> 673.34] There's also another announcement from Clem -[673.34 --> 679.74] Good morning all -[679.74 --> 683.58] I'm one of the deacons here -[683.58 --> 684.54] My name is Clem -[684.54 --> 687.12] In July, June, July -[687.12 --> 688.76] The deacons were sitting around -[688.76 --> 690.42] Wondering what -[690.42 --> 692.58] How can we get Emmanuel involved -[692.58 --> 693.64] In the community more -[693.64 --> 696.80] So we started an initiative -[696.80 --> 699.30] For a breakfast program -[699.30 --> 700.20] That was going on -[700.20 --> 701.34] In H.D. Stafford -[701.34 --> 702.20] Middle school -[702.20 --> 704.34] And we were initially hoping -[704.34 --> 706.32] For two mornings a month -[706.32 --> 708.02] But you know how it goes -[708.02 --> 708.84] This is Emmanuel -[708.84 --> 710.86] So we ended up with enough volunteers -[710.86 --> 713.14] To do four mornings a month -[713.14 --> 714.70] So that was pretty awesome -[714.70 --> 716.92] So I just want to say a big thank you -[716.92 --> 717.94] To all the volunteers -[717.94 --> 719.08] That signed up for that -[719.08 --> 720.20] So -[720.20 --> 725.00] So now -[725.00 --> 727.06] The coordinator of the breakfast -[727.06 --> 728.34] And lunch programs -[728.34 --> 730.30] For the downtown Langley area -[730.30 --> 731.76] Has asked us -[731.76 --> 732.72] If we are able -[732.72 --> 734.64] To do about ten -[734.64 --> 736.12] Christmas hampers -[736.12 --> 737.16] Specifically -[737.16 --> 739.34] The Nicomackal Elementary School -[739.34 --> 741.12] A very needy area -[741.12 --> 742.34] Of downtown Langley -[742.34 --> 745.04] We are looking for families -[745.04 --> 746.66] Groups of friends -[746.66 --> 747.74] Care groups -[747.74 --> 748.96] And individuals -[748.96 --> 750.24] Who would be able -[750.24 --> 751.80] To supply Christmas hampers -[751.80 --> 753.58] For ten families total -[753.58 --> 755.16] We are waiting -[755.16 --> 756.50] For a few more details -[756.50 --> 757.66] Family sizes -[757.66 --> 758.52] And suggestions -[758.52 --> 760.08] On what to put in the hampers -[760.08 --> 762.38] So if you're interested -[762.38 --> 763.90] Please contact -[763.90 --> 765.12] Marlene Bilinga -[765.12 --> 767.88] By phone or text -[767.88 --> 771.58] 604-789-6472 -[771.58 --> 773.10] Or come talk to me -[773.10 --> 773.92] After the service -[773.92 --> 774.58] Thank you -[774.58 --> 780.52] Anyone else? -[785.44 --> 786.90] Let's stand together -[786.90 --> 788.40] So we're welcomed by God -[788.40 --> 789.30] In this place -[789.30 --> 790.46] To worship Him -[790.46 --> 796.76] God meets us here -[796.76 --> 798.74] And we know that -[798.74 --> 801.38] As He greets us here -[801.38 --> 802.60] Receive the greeting -[802.60 --> 803.64] Of our God -[803.64 --> 805.22] Grace -[805.22 --> 806.50] Mercy -[806.50 --> 807.84] And peace to you -[807.84 --> 808.88] From God our Father -[808.88 --> 810.12] From the Lord Jesus Christ -[810.12 --> 810.68] His Son -[810.68 --> 811.74] And our Savior -[811.74 --> 812.82] Through the presence -[812.82 --> 813.36] And power -[813.36 --> 814.48] Of the Holy Spirit -[814.48 --> 815.90] Amen -[815.90 --> 817.78] I'm going to invite you -[817.78 --> 818.56] To turn to those -[818.56 --> 819.08] Around you -[819.08 --> 819.92] And welcome them -[819.92 --> 820.92] In the name of the Lord -[820.92 --> 822.54] Pass the peace of Christ -[822.54 --> 823.66] For our worship this morning -[832.60 --> 837.00] Nouvelty -[838.06 --> 839.76] Gre egg -[839.76 --> 841.76] Yeah -[841.78 --> 842.90] Healing -[842.90 --> 843.08] Heart -[843.08 --> 843.60] talking -[843.60 --> 845.12] It's our -[845.12 --> 845.98] Find out -[845.98 --> 847.18] JEan -[847.18 --> 856.26] Where did they -[856.26 --> 856.92] learn -[856.92 --> 858.24] See you -[858.24 --> 858.76] know -[858.76 --> 859.04] Relax -[859.04 --> 859.70] And -[859.70 --> 859.90] ona -[859.90 --> 864.20] Good morning, everyone. -[865.20 --> 871.34] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 86, verses 8 to 10. -[871.92 --> 876.62] There is none like you, O Lord, nor are there any works like yours. -[877.24 --> 881.60] All the nations you have made shall come and bow down before you, O Lord, -[881.98 --> 883.90] and shall glorify your name. -[883.90 --> 887.56] For you are great, and you do wondrous things. -[887.90 --> 889.60] You alone are God. -[889.90 --> 912.16] O Lord, my God, when I in awesome wonder consider all the works thy hand hath made. -[912.16 --> 917.46] I see the stars. -[918.00 --> 922.16] I hear the rolling thunder. -[923.22 --> 929.16] Thy power throughout the universe display. -[929.16 --> 938.16] Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to thee. -[938.16 --> 947.16] How great thou art. -[947.16 --> 948.16] How great thou art. -[948.16 --> 960.16] How great thou art. -[960.16 --> 962.16] How great thou art. -[962.16 --> 973.16] When through the woods and forest glades I wonder. -[973.16 --> 982.16] And hear the birds, sing sweetly in the trees. -[982.16 --> 992.76] When I look down from lofty mountain grandeur -[992.76 --> 1001.10] And hear the flow and feel the gentle breeze -[1001.10 --> 1008.78] Then sings my soul, my Savior God to thee -[1008.78 --> 1018.12] How great thou art, how great thou art -[1018.12 --> 1026.02] Then sings my soul, my Savior God to thee -[1026.02 --> 1035.04] How great thou art, how great thou art -[1035.04 --> 1043.80] And when I think that God his Son must carry -[1043.80 --> 1052.38] Sent him to die, I scarce can take it in -[1052.38 --> 1061.72] That on the cross my burden gladly bearing -[1061.72 --> 1069.38] He bled and died to take away my sin -[1069.38 --> 1078.72] Then sings my soul, my Savior God to thee -[1078.72 --> 1087.40] How great thou art, how great thou art -[1087.40 --> 1096.16] Then sings my soul, my Savior God to thee -[1096.16 --> 1104.00] How great thou art, how great thou art -[1104.00 --> 1108.00] When Christ shall come -[1108.00 --> 1113.34] With shouts of acclamation -[1113.34 --> 1117.00] And take me whole -[1117.70 --> 1122.20] What joy shall fill my heart -[1122.20 --> 1126.00] Then I shall bow -[1126.00 --> 1131.00] In humble adoration -[1131.00 --> 1131.34] In humble adoration -[1131.34 --> 1134.76] And there proclaim -[1134.76 --> 1139.00] My God, how great thou art -[1139.00 --> 1148.00] Then sings my soul, my Savior God to thee -[1148.00 --> 1153.00] How great thou art, how great thou art -[1153.00 --> 1157.00] How great thou art -[1157.00 --> 1165.00] Then sings my soul, my Savior God to thee -[1165.00 --> 1171.00] How great thou art, how great thou art -[1171.00 --> 1172.00] How great thou art -[1172.00 --> 1194.00] How great thou art -[1194.00 --> 1206.30] The splendor of the King -[1206.30 --> 1210.80] Clothed in majesty -[1210.80 --> 1215.86] Let all the earth rejoice -[1215.86 --> 1218.86] All the earth rejoice -[1218.86 --> 1226.72] He wraps himself in light -[1226.72 --> 1232.36] And darkness tries to hide -[1232.36 --> 1236.00] And trembles at his voice -[1236.00 --> 1240.20] And trembles at his voice -[1240.20 --> 1245.80] How great is our God -[1245.80 --> 1251.66] Sing with me how great is our God -[1251.66 --> 1255.66] And all will see how great -[1255.66 --> 1263.66] How great is our God -[1263.66 --> 1271.52] Reach to which he stands -[1271.52 --> 1277.64] And time is in his hands -[1277.64 --> 1280.52] Beginning and the end -[1280.52 --> 1284.52] Beginning and the end -[1284.52 --> 1290.38] The Lord is free and one -[1290.38 --> 1296.46] Fall is spirit and sound -[1296.46 --> 1299.66] The lion and the lamb -[1299.66 --> 1303.38] The lion and the lamb -[1303.38 --> 1309.24] How great is our God -[1309.24 --> 1313.24] Sing with me how great -[1313.24 --> 1315.24] Is our God -[1315.24 --> 1319.24] And all will see how great -[1319.24 --> 1325.24] How great is our God -[1325.24 --> 1332.10] Name and love -[1332.10 --> 1332.40] Name and love -[1332.40 --> 1333.10] All of us -[1333.10 --> 1337.10] Worthy of all praise -[1337.10 --> 1341.10] Worthy of all praise -[1341.10 --> 1344.10] My heart will sing -[1344.10 --> 1349.10] How great is our God -[1349.10 --> 1358.96] How great is our God -[1358.96 --> 1360.96] How great is our God -[1360.96 --> 1364.96] How great is our God -[1364.96 --> 1369.82] Sing with me how great -[1369.82 --> 1374.82] How great is our God -[1374.82 --> 1382.82] How great is our God -[1382.82 --> 1385.82] Sing with me how great -[1385.82 --> 1389.26] How great is our God -[1389.26 --> 1393.26] And all will see how great -[1393.26 --> 1399.26] How great is our God -[1399.26 --> 1404.80] Please bow your heads with me -[1404.80 --> 1408.58] Merciful God -[1408.58 --> 1411.24] You pardon all who truly repent -[1411.24 --> 1412.22] And turn to you -[1412.22 --> 1415.38] We humbly confess our sins -[1415.38 --> 1416.52] And ask your mercy -[1416.52 --> 1418.62] We have not loved you -[1418.62 --> 1419.56] With a pure heart -[1419.56 --> 1421.34] Nor have we loved our neighbor -[1421.34 --> 1422.20] As ourselves -[1422.20 --> 1424.66] We have not done justice -[1424.66 --> 1425.90] Loved kindness -[1425.90 --> 1427.62] Or walked humbly with you -[1427.62 --> 1428.36] Our God -[1428.36 --> 1430.64] Have mercy on us -[1430.64 --> 1431.08] O God -[1431.08 --> 1432.18] In your loving kindness -[1432.18 --> 1433.52] In your great compassion -[1433.52 --> 1435.06] Cleanse us from our sin -[1435.06 --> 1438.10] May we collectively echo the words -[1438.10 --> 1439.74] From Psalm 51 -[1439.74 --> 1442.86] Create in us a clean heart -[1442.86 --> 1443.52] O God -[1443.52 --> 1445.24] And renew a right spirit -[1445.24 --> 1445.94] Within us -[1445.94 --> 1448.08] Do not cast us from your presence -[1448.08 --> 1449.96] Or take your Holy Spirit from us -[1449.96 --> 1452.02] Restore to us the joy -[1452.02 --> 1453.16] Of your salvation -[1453.16 --> 1454.72] And sustain us -[1454.72 --> 1456.14] With your bountiful spirit -[1456.14 --> 1457.72] Through Jesus Christ -[1457.72 --> 1458.62] Our Lord -[1458.62 --> 1459.58] Amen -[1459.58 --> 1473.72] Create in me -[1473.72 --> 1477.80] Create in me a clean heart -[1477.80 --> 1480.20] O God -[1480.20 --> 1484.14] And renew a right spirit -[1484.14 --> 1486.72] Within me -[1486.72 --> 1490.74] Create in me -[1490.74 --> 1491.46] Create in me -[1491.46 --> 1491.74] Create in me -[1491.74 --> 1492.74] Create in me -[1492.74 --> 1494.74] A clean heart -[1494.74 --> 1497.00] O God -[1497.00 --> 1500.80] And reveal a right spirit -[1500.80 --> 1501.86] Within me -[1501.86 --> 1509.08] Cast me away -[1509.08 --> 1509.14] Cast me away -[1509.14 --> 1511.08] From thy presence -[1511.08 --> 1511.34] From thy presence -[1511.34 --> 1513.08] O Lord -[1513.08 --> 1518.36] And take not my Holy Spirit -[1518.36 --> 1520.14] From thee -[1520.14 --> 1526.44] Restore unto me -[1526.44 --> 1530.46] The joy of thy salvation -[1530.46 --> 1534.48] And renew a right spirit -[1534.48 --> 1534.54] And renew a right spirit -[1534.54 --> 1536.48] Within me -[1536.48 --> 1540.54] Create in me -[1540.54 --> 1541.74] Create in me -[1541.74 --> 1543.54] A clean heart -[1543.54 --> 1546.48] O God -[1546.48 --> 1553.18] Escape in me -[1553.18 --> 1556.50] Create in me -[1556.50 --> 1557.12] Create in me -[1557.12 --> 1559.00] Create in me -[1559.00 --> 1564.40] A clean heart -[1564.40 --> 1572.40] And renew the right spirit within me -[1572.40 --> 1581.40] Cast me not away from thy presence alone -[1582.40 --> 1588.40] And take not thy Holy Spirit from me -[1588.40 --> 1599.40] Restore unto thee the joy of thy salvation -[1600.40 --> 1607.40] And renew the right spirit within me -[1607.40 --> 1616.40] Here are words you may trust, words that merit full acceptance. -[1617.40 --> 1621.40] Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. -[1622.40 --> 1628.40] To all who confess their sins and resolve to lead a new life, he says, -[1629.40 --> 1630.40] Your sins are forgiven. -[1631.40 --> 1633.40] He also says, Follow me. -[1633.40 --> 1643.40] Now to the one who rules all worlds, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. -[1644.40 --> 1652.40] And now, confident our sins are forgiven, let us await in hope the final coming, our Lord Jesus Christ. -[1653.40 --> 1659.40] And on that final day where we can join the saints and angels and sing the hymn of heaven together, -[1659.40 --> 1662.40] Shouting holy is the Lord. -[1662.40 --> 1663.40] Praise the Lord. -[1663.40 --> 1664.40] How I long to breathe the air of heaven, where pain is gone, and mercy fills the streets. -[1664.40 --> 1665.40] To look upon the path of heaven, where pain is gone, and mercy fills the streets. -[1665.40 --> 1666.40] To look upon the path of heaven, where pain is gone, and mercy fills the streets. -[1666.40 --> 1667.40] To look upon the path of heaven, and mercy fills the streets. -[1667.40 --> 1668.40] To look upon the path of heaven, and mercy fills the streets. -[1668.40 --> 1669.40] To look upon the path of heaven, and mercy fills the streets. -[1669.40 --> 1670.40] To look upon the path of heaven, and mercy fills the streets. -[1670.40 --> 1671.40] Thank you, Lord. -[1671.40 --> 1673.40] How I long to breathe the air of heaven, where pain is gone, and mercy fills the streets. -[1673.40 --> 1684.08] How I long to breathe the air of heaven -[1684.08 --> 1692.24] Where pain is gone and mercy fills the streets -[1692.24 --> 1699.42] To look upon the one who led to save me -[1699.42 --> 1705.26] And walk with Him for all eternity -[1705.26 --> 1716.42] There will be a day when all will bow before Him -[1717.00 --> 1723.42] There will be a day when death will be no one -[1724.26 --> 1727.54] Standing face to face -[1727.54 --> 1732.66] When He who died and rose again -[1732.66 --> 1738.88] Holy, holy is the Lord -[1738.88 --> 1748.82] And every prayer we prayed in desperation -[1748.82 --> 1756.94] The songs of faith we sang through doubt and evil -[1756.94 --> 1763.52] In the end we'll see that it was perfect -[1763.52 --> 1771.94] When He returns to wipe away our tears -[1771.94 --> 1781.48] There will be a day when all will bow before Him -[1781.48 --> 1788.06] There will be a day when death will be no one -[1788.06 --> 1791.06] Standing face to face -[1791.06 --> 1796.18] Then He who died and rose again -[1796.18 --> 1803.18] Holy, holy is the Lord -[1803.18 --> 1813.34] And on that day we joined the resurrection -[1813.34 --> 1821.46] And stand beside the heroes of the faith -[1821.46 --> 1827.72] With one voice a thousand generations -[1827.72 --> 1834.46] Sing worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[1834.46 --> 1842.58] And on that day we joined the resurrection -[1842.58 --> 1849.46] And stand beside the heroes of the faith -[1849.46 --> 1855.58] And with one voice a thousand generations -[1855.58 --> 1861.70] Sing worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[1861.70 --> 1864.70] Sing worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[1864.70 --> 1869.98] Forever He shall reign -[1869.98 --> 1877.66] There will be a day -[1877.66 --> 1881.66] When all will bow before Him -[1881.66 --> 1884.88] There will be a day -[1884.88 --> 1888.84] When death will be no more -[1888.84 --> 1892.02] Standing face to face -[1892.02 --> 1897.30] With He who died and rose again -[1897.30 --> 1902.88] Holy, holy is the Lord -[1902.88 --> 1906.06] So let it be today -[1906.06 --> 1909.50] We shout with Him in heaven -[1909.50 --> 1912.98] With angels and the saints -[1912.98 --> 1916.92] We raise His heart here, Lord -[1916.92 --> 1920.06] Glory to our God -[1920.06 --> 1925.50] Who gave us life beyond the grave -[1925.50 --> 1931.08] Holy, holy is the Lord -[1931.08 --> 1939.08] Holy, holy is the Lord -[1939.08 --> 1946.96] Holy, holy is the Lord -[1946.96 --> 1950.82] May we have a sip -[1950.82 --> 1974.40] Good morning -[1974.40 --> 1975.66] My name is Lina -[1975.66 --> 1977.26] I am one of the demons here -[1977.26 --> 1979.34] Today the offerings are -[1979.34 --> 1980.92] First, the budget -[1980.92 --> 1984.08] Which is for our day-to-day running of our church -[1984.08 --> 1987.26] Second is the ministry to seafarers -[1987.26 --> 1991.18] Whose vision is to visit as many ships as possible -[1991.18 --> 1993.42] Through the port of Vancouver -[1993.42 --> 1996.16] These visits give them opportunity -[1996.16 --> 2000.42] To share the good news of God's love in Jesus Christ -[2000.42 --> 2003.84] With seafarers in word and deed -[2003.84 --> 2007.28] By providing literature and other resources -[2007.28 --> 2011.12] They also serve them in practical ways -[2011.12 --> 2013.08] At the seafarers center -[2013.08 --> 2017.64] Engaging in quality Christian dialogue wherever possible -[2017.64 --> 2022.44] They have been supported by two classes of BC -[2022.44 --> 2024.26] And two in Alberta -[2024.26 --> 2026.92] That stopped in 2023 -[2026.92 --> 2031.08] So now they have to rely on church offerings -[2031.08 --> 2034.44] Which means they need it now more than ever -[2034.44 --> 2037.10] God bless you in your giving -[2037.10 --> 2041.84] Next special collection is for world renewed -[2041.84 --> 2046.42] Refugee sponsorship and resettlement -[2046.42 --> 2067.88] A thousand generations -[2067.88 --> 2071.60] Falling down in worship -[2071.60 --> 2077.16] To sing the song of ages to the Lamb -[2077.16 --> 2083.26] And all who've gone before us -[2083.26 --> 2086.50] And all who will believe -[2086.50 --> 2091.66] Will sing the song of ages to the Lamb -[2091.66 --> 2097.82] Your name is the highest -[2097.82 --> 2101.38] Your name is the greatest -[2101.38 --> 2107.38] Your name stands above the Lord -[2107.38 --> 2111.48] All thrones and dominions -[2111.48 --> 2114.48] All powers and positions -[2115.04 --> 2120.52] Your name stands above the Lord -[2120.52 --> 2123.86] And the angels cry -[2123.86 --> 2130.42] Holy of creation Christ -[2130.42 --> 2137.58] Holy you are lifted high -[2137.58 --> 2144.10] Holy, holy forever -[2144.10 --> 2151.66] If you've been forgiven -[2151.66 --> 2152.38] If you've been forgiven -[2152.38 --> 2156.38] And may you've been redeemed -[2156.38 --> 2161.18] Sing the song forever to the Lamb -[2161.18 --> 2166.44] If you walk in freedom -[2166.44 --> 2170.24] May you bear the same -[2170.24 --> 2175.86] Sing the song forever to the Lamb -[2175.86 --> 2178.04] Sing the song forever to the Lamb -[2178.04 --> 2179.84] Sing the song forever to the Lamb -[2179.84 --> 2181.24] Sing the song forever and the Lamb -[2181.24 --> 2183.02] And the angels cry -[2183.02 --> 2185.60] And the angels cry -[2185.60 --> 2191.96] Holy of creation Christ -[2191.96 --> 2199.44] Holy you are lifted high -[2199.44 --> 2205.62] Holy, holy forever -[2205.62 --> 2212.62] Hear your people sing -[2212.62 --> 2219.72] Holy to the King of kings -[2219.72 --> 2225.74] Holy, you will always be -[2225.74 --> 2232.28] Holy, holy forever -[2232.28 --> 2241.42] Your name is the highest -[2241.42 --> 2244.70] Your name is the greatest -[2244.70 --> 2250.76] Your name stands above them all -[2250.76 --> 2255.24] All thrones and dominions -[2255.24 --> 2258.34] All powers and positions -[2258.34 --> 2263.62] Your name stands above them all -[2263.62 --> 2266.92] And the angels cry -[2266.92 --> 2273.56] Holy, all creation cries -[2273.56 --> 2280.50] Holy, you are lifted high -[2280.50 --> 2286.44] Holy, holy forever -[2286.44 --> 2293.18] Hear your people sing -[2293.18 --> 2299.60] Holy to the King of kings -[2299.60 --> 2306.18] Holy, you will always be -[2306.18 --> 2312.12] Holy, holy forever -[2312.12 --> 2316.12] Holy, holy forever -[2316.12 --> 2319.86] You will always be -[2319.86 --> 2323.86] Holy, holy forever -[2323.86 --> 2327.86] Holy, holy forever -[2327.86 --> 2337.80] Amen -[2337.80 --> 2341.80] Amen -[2341.80 --> 2343.80] Amen -[2343.80 --> 2345.54] Good morning, everybody -[2345.54 --> 2349.02] I am Amy Huberts, the Children's Worship Coordinator -[2349.02 --> 2355.56] Emmanuel, and I would like to invite all the preschoolers up to grade four -[2355.56 --> 2357.26] To come on up to the front -[2357.26 --> 2367.34] Awesome guys, how is everybody doing this morning? -[2368.18 --> 2368.90] Good -[2368.90 --> 2369.90] Have you guys ever had? -[2369.90 --> 2376.88] Have you guys ever had someone do something so nice for you that you were so shocked? -[2378.22 --> 2379.34] Have you guys ever had? -[2379.92 --> 2380.64] No? -[2380.84 --> 2383.00] Have you guys ever done something? -[2383.42 --> 2389.34] Have you guys ever done something for someone else that made them smile? -[2389.34 --> 2390.34] No? -[2390.34 --> 2391.34] No? -[2391.34 --> 2392.34] No? -[2392.34 --> 2393.34] No? -[2393.34 --> 2398.28] Do you guys remember treat take in the church? -[2398.28 --> 2399.28] Yeah? -[2399.28 --> 2401.28] And those were what? -[2401.28 --> 2403.28] What did we do with them? -[2403.28 --> 2406.28] Do you want to say it? -[2406.28 --> 2407.28] What did we do? -[2407.28 --> 2414.28] We had treat takes and we gave it to other people in the church so they were kind of like acts of kindness -[2414.28 --> 2419.28] And we were giving them all to everybody and put smiles on everybody's faces -[2419.28 --> 2425.96] What kind of things could you do at home or to your friends that would put a smile on their face? -[2427.80 --> 2429.52] You guys are quiet this morning -[2429.52 --> 2436.94] What could you do for your brother or sister? -[2440.28 --> 2441.50] Could, yeah? -[2444.28 --> 2448.78] Yes, if you have a leftover birthday treat you can give it to them -[2448.78 --> 2449.78] That's right -[2449.78 --> 2450.78] Is there anything else? -[2450.78 --> 2452.78] What could you do for your mom or dad? -[2457.28 --> 2459.38] Yes, do your chores without asking -[2459.38 --> 2460.28] Those are awesome -[2460.28 --> 2465.28] So today our big idea in children's worship time in the K to 4 side -[2465.28 --> 2469.28] Is God's kindness brings people together -[2469.28 --> 2473.28] So we are going to be talking about Moses -[2473.28 --> 2475.28] And ask when he grew up -[2475.28 --> 2477.28] I know last week you talked about him as a baby -[2477.28 --> 2483.28] When he grew up and how he was trying to help out his people -[2483.28 --> 2485.28] But then he had to go away -[2485.28 --> 2488.28] And God put people in his life -[2488.28 --> 2490.28] To give him kindness -[2490.28 --> 2493.28] I have one more thing -[2493.28 --> 2495.28] Why do you think I have -[2495.28 --> 2498.28] I didn't set them up today -[2498.28 --> 2501.28] But why do you think I have dominoes? -[2501.28 --> 2506.28] Why do you think I have dominoes today? -[2506.28 --> 2508.28] Well one dominoes -[2508.28 --> 2510.28] Well one dominoes -[2510.28 --> 2512.28] What happens to dominoes when you set them up? -[2512.28 --> 2513.28] Yes -[2513.28 --> 2516.28] They all fall down -[2516.28 --> 2518.28] So when we do acts of kindness -[2518.28 --> 2520.28] We can touch one person -[2520.28 --> 2523.28] And then we hit the dominoes -[2523.28 --> 2524.28] It's like dominoes effect -[2524.28 --> 2529.28] And they all will affect many other people -[2529.28 --> 2532.28] So one person will be affected -[2532.28 --> 2534.28] And then this person will give an acts of kindness -[2534.28 --> 2535.28] To that person -[2535.28 --> 2537.28] And that person -[2537.28 --> 2538.28] Okay -[2538.28 --> 2542.28] Okay can everybody stand up? -[2542.28 --> 2545.28] And we're going to face the church -[2545.28 --> 2548.28] And look at the church and say -[2548.28 --> 2549.28] You guys ready? -[2549.28 --> 2551.28] The Lord be with you -[2551.28 --> 2553.28] And also with you -[2578.28 --> 2585.28] My name is John -[2585.28 --> 2587.28] And I'm one of the elders of the church here -[2587.28 --> 2590.28] And I will be leading us in our congregational prayer -[2593.28 --> 2594.28] Lord as we have been singing -[2594.28 --> 2596.28] Holy, holy, holy is your name -[2596.28 --> 2598.28] Lord we come before you -[2598.28 --> 2599.28] As the great God -[2599.28 --> 2600.28] The only God -[2600.28 --> 2602.28] The God who created this world -[2603.28 --> 2605.28] The God who gave us a place here -[2605.28 --> 2608.28] And a place that -[2608.28 --> 2610.28] We are going to be a people -[2610.28 --> 2613.28] To give you the praise that is due your name -[2614.28 --> 2616.28] Lord, often times we don't do that -[2616.28 --> 2619.28] Often times we put our own selves first -[2620.28 --> 2622.28] And Lord that is our sinful nature -[2622.28 --> 2626.28] And we need your spirit and your strength -[2626.28 --> 2628.28] To be able to combat that -[2628.28 --> 2629.28] To turn to you -[2630.28 --> 2632.28] To allow your spirit to fill our lives -[2632.28 --> 2634.28] That we can serve you each and every day -[2635.28 --> 2636.28] Better and better -[2639.28 --> 2640.28] Lord we do -[2641.28 --> 2643.28] Have a congregation that is active and busy -[2644.28 --> 2645.28] And we pray a blessing on -[2645.28 --> 2646.28] Children's worship time -[2647.28 --> 2648.28] Cadet and Gems Ministries -[2649.28 --> 2650.28] Coffee break -[2650.28 --> 2651.28] Lord we have many people that are -[2652.28 --> 2653.28] Active and serving -[2654.28 --> 2656.28] And we ask your blessing and strength -[2656.28 --> 2658.28] For each one of those in their tasks and duties -[2659.28 --> 2661.28] Lord we also pray a blessing on council -[2662.28 --> 2663.28] As we have a meeting this week -[2663.28 --> 2665.28] Lord as council members -[2665.28 --> 2666.28] We -[2667.28 --> 2669.28] We find the strength of you -[2669.28 --> 2672.28] To be able to provide leadership in this congregation -[2673.28 --> 2675.28] Lord we are thankful for preaching staff -[2676.28 --> 2677.28] For Kevin and Chris -[2678.28 --> 2680.28] And pray for the work that they do -[2681.28 --> 2682.28] Leading our congregation -[2683.28 --> 2686.28] Lord we have many needs in our congregation -[2686.28 --> 2690.28] And health is one of those issues that come up regularly -[2691.28 --> 2692.28] We pray for -[2693.28 --> 2696.28] Jaredina Johnson's -[2697.28 --> 2700.28] Granddaughter Christina who has been diagnosed with lupus -[2701.28 --> 2704.28] And waiting more tests to determine treatment -[2705.28 --> 2707.28] We pray a blessing on her -[2707.28 --> 2710.28] Lord that the doctors may be the -[2711.28 --> 2713.28] Find a way to provide help and healing -[2714.28 --> 2717.28] Lord we also pray for Ken Hoko -[2718.28 --> 2719.28] One of his sister Magna -[2720.28 --> 2724.28] She has stage 4 cancer and has gone into palliative care -[2725.28 --> 2729.28] We pray a blessing on her and strengthen the family as they deal with this difficult time -[2729.28 --> 2739.28] Lord we pray for those that have lost loved ones and have gone to be with you -[2740.28 --> 2744.28] We think of Greta Kapper's mom and Nikki's grandmother -[2745.28 --> 2746.28] Lord that is just this past week -[2747.28 --> 2750.28] And we pray for comfort and strength as they go through the grieving and burial process -[2750.28 --> 2758.28] Lord we also pray for Morgue Kunst as she laid her father to rest in the last while -[2759.28 --> 2761.28] We pray for comfort for that family as well -[2762.28 --> 2766.28] Lord there's others in our church who the grief has only been a month old -[2767.28 --> 2769.28] Or sometimes a year or 10 years old -[2770.28 --> 2774.28] Lord I pray that we as a community may be able to uphold these families and individuals -[2775.28 --> 2776.28] And share in that grief -[2776.28 --> 2779.28] Lord we pray for a greater world -[2780.28 --> 2783.28] We know there are still many conflicts happening -[2784.28 --> 2786.28] We pray for the war in Ukraine -[2787.28 --> 2791.28] Also for the war with Israel and the Palestinians -[2792.28 --> 2795.28] Lord we don't know why this always happens -[2796.28 --> 2797.28] But we pray for your peace -[2798.28 --> 2800.28] That we may see conflicts cease -[2800.28 --> 2810.28] Lord we pray that in this coming week we may set our hearts for the Lord's Supper this coming Sunday -[2811.28 --> 2815.28] We may truly come and examine ourselves -[2816.28 --> 2823.28] And Lord come before you knowing that we can be blessed in what you have done for us on the cross so many years ago -[2823.28 --> 2826.28] Lord we pray a blessing on the preaching this morning -[2827.28 --> 2829.28] Lord we pray for Pastor Chris as he leads us -[2830.28 --> 2832.28] That his words may be your words -[2833.28 --> 2835.28] That we may be able to take those words to heart -[2836.28 --> 2838.28] That we may be able to live them in our lives in this coming week -[2839.28 --> 2841.28] Lord to another member of our extended church family -[2841.28 --> 2842.28] Brenda and Linda and Jody's mum -[2843.28 --> 2844.28] Has recurring cancer -[2845.28 --> 2847.28] And she had to go to the hospital again for continued study and treatment -[2847.28 --> 2851.28] We pray a blessing on her as she goes through that difficult time for a second time in her life -[2851.28 --> 2855.28] Lord as the words of the psalmist say -[2855.28 --> 2862.66] has a recurring cancer, and she had to go into hospital again for continued study and treatment. -[2862.90 --> 2867.80] We pray a blessing on her as she goes through that difficult time for a second time in her life. -[2871.58 --> 2873.78] Lord, as the words of the psalmist say, -[2875.14 --> 2877.68] Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. -[2878.30 --> 2879.74] Worship the Lord with gladness. -[2880.62 --> 2882.62] Come before him with singing and with joy. -[2882.62 --> 2885.46] Acknowledge that the Lord is God. -[2886.06 --> 2888.26] He made us, and we are his. -[2889.12 --> 2891.50] We are his people, the sheep of his pasture. -[2893.02 --> 2894.62] Enter his gates with thanksgiving. -[2895.42 --> 2897.24] Go into his courts with praise. -[2898.50 --> 2900.84] Give thanks to him and praise his name. -[2901.78 --> 2902.96] For the Lord is good. -[2903.88 --> 2906.30] His unfailing love continues forever. -[2907.34 --> 2909.72] His faithfulness to each generation. -[2909.72 --> 2917.50] Lord, as we have seen this happen in the time of families losing loved ones, -[2918.66 --> 2921.58] Lord, we know that it is you that upholds us. -[2922.02 --> 2923.74] It is you that we can turn to for strength. -[2925.50 --> 2927.12] And Lord, as we go out this coming week, -[2927.66 --> 2930.46] that we would share that with others around us, -[2931.14 --> 2932.54] in our life, in our work, -[2933.34 --> 2934.16] in our studies. -[2935.16 --> 2937.76] Lord, we ask that your spirit may bless us. -[2937.76 --> 2940.64] We ask that in the name of Jesus Christ, -[2940.76 --> 2941.54] our Lord and Savior. -[2942.32 --> 2942.64] Amen. -[2942.64 --> 2942.78] Amen. -[2942.78 --> 2969.56] This morning, we are continuing our close reading in the book of Romans, -[2969.56 --> 2974.02] Romans, and we are going to read together from chapter 9, -[2974.20 --> 2975.32] starting at verse 30, -[2975.48 --> 2980.30] and then we are going to read through to verse 13 of chapter 10. -[2982.56 --> 2984.96] As always, as we are digging into this, -[2985.02 --> 2986.96] the first time through, it will be on the screen, -[2987.32 --> 2988.60] but we will come back, -[2988.86 --> 2992.68] and we will dig pretty deeply together this morning. -[2992.68 --> 2994.24] And so I always encourage you, -[2994.46 --> 2996.54] have your own Bible open in front of you. -[2998.10 --> 3000.10] If you brought one from home, excellent. -[3000.60 --> 3001.30] Mark it up. -[3001.52 --> 3003.54] Go ahead, draw lines, highlight things. -[3004.06 --> 3006.02] If you are using one of the Bibles from the back, -[3006.44 --> 3008.22] honestly, draw lines, mark it up, -[3008.36 --> 3009.50] and go ahead and use it, -[3009.52 --> 3010.92] because we are buying new ones next year anyway. -[3013.76 --> 3015.20] And then you can take those ones home. -[3015.32 --> 3015.70] It is okay. -[3015.70 --> 3020.42] But we do want to encourage you to have that open. -[3020.72 --> 3024.84] I think it will help as we go through this time together. -[3025.70 --> 3030.60] So that's beginning in verse 30 of chapter 9. -[3030.60 --> 3035.20] What then shall we say? -[3036.74 --> 3040.02] That the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, -[3040.26 --> 3041.14] have obtained it, -[3041.72 --> 3044.02] a righteousness that is by faith. -[3044.88 --> 3046.10] But the people of Israel, -[3046.30 --> 3048.74] who pursued the law as the way of righteousness, -[3049.10 --> 3050.68] have not attained their goal. -[3051.68 --> 3052.26] Why not? -[3052.60 --> 3055.96] Because they pursued it not by faith, -[3056.06 --> 3057.82] but as if it were by works. -[3057.82 --> 3060.90] They stumbled over the stumbling stone. -[3062.00 --> 3062.76] As it is written, -[3062.98 --> 3067.20] See, I lay in Zion a stone that causes people to stumble, -[3067.64 --> 3069.28] and a rock that makes them fall. -[3069.68 --> 3072.68] And the one who believes in him will never be put to shame. -[3073.96 --> 3075.12] Brothers and sisters, -[3075.34 --> 3078.82] my heart's desire and prayer to God for the Israelites -[3078.82 --> 3080.96] is that they may be saved. -[3081.70 --> 3085.00] For I can testify about them that they are zealous for God, -[3085.00 --> 3088.02] but their zeal is not based on knowledge. -[3088.02 --> 3090.86] Since they did not know the righteousness of God -[3090.86 --> 3092.86] and sought to establish their own, -[3093.12 --> 3095.50] they did not submit to God's righteousness. -[3096.52 --> 3099.08] Christ is the culmination of the law -[3099.08 --> 3102.68] so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes. -[3104.98 --> 3108.84] Moses writes this about the righteousness that is by the law. -[3109.74 --> 3112.52] The person who does these things will live by them. -[3112.52 --> 3116.04] But the righteousness that is by faith says, -[3116.54 --> 3119.20] Do not say in your heart who will ascend into heaven, -[3119.30 --> 3120.82] that is, to bring Christ down, -[3120.88 --> 3122.96] or who will descend into the deep, -[3123.04 --> 3125.02] that is, to bring Christ up from the dead. -[3125.62 --> 3126.84] But what does it say? -[3127.62 --> 3129.34] The word is in you. -[3129.70 --> 3131.38] It is in your mouth and in your heart. -[3131.74 --> 3134.74] That is, the message concerning faith that we proclaim, -[3135.08 --> 3136.88] if you declare with your mouth, -[3137.06 --> 3137.98] Jesus is Lord, -[3138.06 --> 3141.02] and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, -[3141.02 --> 3142.72] you will be saved. -[3143.42 --> 3145.96] For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, -[3146.38 --> 3150.02] and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. -[3151.20 --> 3152.50] As Scripture says, -[3152.66 --> 3155.64] anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame. -[3156.44 --> 3159.04] There is no difference between Jew and Gentile. -[3159.40 --> 3161.62] The same Lord is Lord of all -[3161.62 --> 3164.28] and richly blesses all who call on him. -[3164.60 --> 3169.30] For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. -[3169.30 --> 3170.54] Amen. -[3171.04 --> 3172.12] This is the word of the Lord. -[3176.30 --> 3178.40] So as we have been in this series, -[3178.52 --> 3180.10] and in particular these chapters, -[3180.70 --> 3184.02] we have acknowledged just how difficult -[3184.02 --> 3186.82] and how hard it can be to understand -[3186.82 --> 3188.70] kind of what's going on here. -[3190.18 --> 3191.16] And to be fair, -[3191.56 --> 3194.20] when we are wrestling with something this hard, -[3194.20 --> 3197.76] as a bit of a rhetorical device, -[3198.10 --> 3201.32] I like to stand up and at the beginning try to say something funny -[3201.32 --> 3203.34] or to try to draw you in, -[3203.40 --> 3205.14] but the truth is I'm not really that funny. -[3205.76 --> 3208.20] And so what I usually do is default to making fun of Kevin. -[3209.82 --> 3212.54] And I just can't do that this week. -[3212.54 --> 3218.82] Because there's something else that's on my mind -[3218.82 --> 3220.02] and has been on my mind -[3220.02 --> 3224.80] and has been occupying my brain space -[3224.80 --> 3226.16] as I've been preparing for this. -[3226.50 --> 3227.24] And to be honest, -[3227.62 --> 3232.28] the thing that I think about most often -[3232.28 --> 3233.62] as a leader in the church -[3233.62 --> 3237.00] and as a pastor in the Christian church -[3237.00 --> 3246.06] is what will the church do or be, -[3246.20 --> 3248.62] what will we as Christians be -[3248.62 --> 3251.30] for the next generation of believers? -[3253.28 --> 3256.60] My heart in ministry and in leadership -[3256.60 --> 3260.00] is for you 20-year-olds. -[3260.00 --> 3262.88] Right? -[3262.94 --> 3265.06] It's for you, Gen Alpha, -[3265.38 --> 3267.08] you teenagers right now. -[3268.74 --> 3271.30] And honestly, every time we make a decision -[3271.30 --> 3272.72] or every ministry direction -[3272.72 --> 3275.62] that we wonder about prayerfully pursuing, -[3276.06 --> 3279.06] I run it through the rubric in my own head -[3279.06 --> 3279.92] and in my own heart. -[3280.10 --> 3282.88] How is this helping us at Langley Emanuel -[3282.88 --> 3284.78] grow younger? -[3286.54 --> 3288.16] Now some of you are familiar with that language, -[3288.16 --> 3289.64] the language of growing young. -[3290.00 --> 3293.58] It comes from the Fuller Institute in California. -[3293.78 --> 3295.36] They've done a whole bunch of research on this. -[3295.46 --> 3297.12] Honestly, I have a shelf full of books -[3297.12 --> 3298.34] in my own library -[3298.34 --> 3299.80] dealing with this very topic -[3299.80 --> 3302.20] about how the church will grow younger -[3302.20 --> 3306.10] and how the church will engage the next generation. -[3306.54 --> 3308.12] And I mean the generation after me -[3308.12 --> 3309.06] because for some of you, -[3309.12 --> 3310.30] I'm the next generation. -[3312.04 --> 3313.04] But I'm 40. -[3314.74 --> 3317.32] I'm no longer the next generation. -[3317.32 --> 3319.18] I haven't been for about 20 years. -[3320.00 --> 3321.18] It's hard to admit. -[3324.62 --> 3328.12] And there have been countless studies -[3328.12 --> 3330.58] and questions from hemorrhaging faith -[3330.58 --> 3332.42] to renegotiating faith in Canada -[3332.42 --> 3335.56] to You Lost Me by the Barner Group -[3335.56 --> 3337.30] and Un-Christian by the same. -[3337.84 --> 3340.08] And then the Fuller Institute -[3340.08 --> 3341.92] recently in their book, Growing Young, -[3342.00 --> 3342.92] pulled these all together. -[3343.34 --> 3346.20] James Avery White talking about Generation Alpha -[3346.20 --> 3347.82] published just in the last couple of years. -[3347.82 --> 3350.18] All of this is in my space, -[3350.54 --> 3351.54] my mind space, -[3351.88 --> 3353.72] as I leave the church -[3353.72 --> 3355.86] because, -[3356.82 --> 3358.88] and I tried to find who said it, -[3358.94 --> 3360.06] but it's been said so often -[3360.06 --> 3362.62] that it becomes one of those internet memes things, right? -[3363.48 --> 3365.04] But there's a saying out there -[3365.04 --> 3365.50] that says, -[3365.62 --> 3368.36] the church is always one generation away from extinction. -[3368.36 --> 3371.84] Now, as a Reformed Christian, -[3371.84 --> 3374.18] I know that that's not true, right? -[3374.24 --> 3375.94] Like the Bible teaches very clearly -[3375.94 --> 3380.00] that God always has a remnant that He keeps, right? -[3380.04 --> 3381.98] The Belgic Confession says very clearly, -[3382.46 --> 3383.70] because Christ is King, -[3383.80 --> 3385.36] He will never be without subjects. -[3385.54 --> 3388.18] There's always going to be a church, -[3388.32 --> 3389.62] but what that doesn't promise -[3389.62 --> 3391.16] is that there will always be this church. -[3391.16 --> 3396.40] And that's what I want to wonder about. -[3401.52 --> 3403.94] And as I think about those things, -[3404.94 --> 3408.24] as I try to lead from that perspective, -[3408.24 --> 3412.86] I am mindful of the fact, -[3412.94 --> 3414.12] and the studies bear this out, -[3414.28 --> 3415.84] anecdotal evidence bears this out, -[3415.92 --> 3419.66] and conversations with people here bear this out, -[3419.72 --> 3422.04] that one of the reasons -[3422.04 --> 3427.10] that young people leave the church, -[3427.24 --> 3428.26] one of the reasons, honestly, -[3428.40 --> 3429.54] anyone leaves the church, -[3429.60 --> 3431.16] but you see this more in young people -[3431.16 --> 3433.08] because of the kinds of values that they hold, -[3433.80 --> 3438.06] is because the Christian faith for so many of us -[3438.06 --> 3443.14] has been exchanged for something else. -[3444.50 --> 3448.74] It's been substituted for a soft, -[3449.06 --> 3450.70] vaguely Christian morality, -[3451.30 --> 3457.36] or it's been exchanged for a particularly hard definition -[3457.36 --> 3459.68] of what it means to live in the world, -[3459.80 --> 3461.44] and so there's legalistic structures, -[3461.82 --> 3464.00] and there's judgment, and there's impositions, -[3464.40 --> 3467.34] and because for so many people -[3467.34 --> 3470.16] who look at the generations ahead of them, -[3470.24 --> 3472.24] who look at us older generations, -[3472.24 --> 3475.78] they go, where does this actually show up? -[3478.20 --> 3482.74] Does believing in Jesus actually change your life? -[3483.94 --> 3487.26] Does it make a difference in your heart -[3487.26 --> 3488.96] and in how you live in the world? -[3488.96 --> 3491.98] Because for so many people, -[3491.98 --> 3493.76] they look at the church, -[3493.76 --> 3497.18] and they don't see a difference. -[3498.84 --> 3502.30] It doesn't change in our heart of hearts -[3502.30 --> 3503.92] how we engage the world. -[3504.02 --> 3506.62] Instead, we value the same things. -[3506.84 --> 3508.74] We want the same things. -[3509.02 --> 3511.82] We pursue the same type of life -[3511.82 --> 3513.28] or way of being in the world, -[3513.28 --> 3515.30] and honestly, -[3516.10 --> 3518.74] that's not very attractive. -[3520.06 --> 3521.10] You're like, what's the point? -[3521.62 --> 3522.34] Why bother? -[3522.70 --> 3523.80] Why do all this work? -[3524.12 --> 3526.70] Why miss good brunch on Sunday -[3526.70 --> 3529.48] and come to church instead? -[3531.98 --> 3532.92] Some of you are thinking, -[3533.02 --> 3533.54] yeah, you know what? -[3533.60 --> 3533.98] That's right. -[3534.38 --> 3536.30] Holland eggs over eggs benny -[3536.30 --> 3538.14] would have been better than Pastor Chris right now. -[3538.14 --> 3541.88] Why is that? -[3543.44 --> 3545.92] Where's that compelling aspect? -[3547.02 --> 3549.28] Now, I introduced this -[3549.28 --> 3551.08] because it's part of my brain space, -[3551.34 --> 3555.96] and I think that part of -[3555.96 --> 3557.14] what we're going to discuss this morning, -[3557.30 --> 3560.80] part of what we see Paul talking about this morning -[3560.80 --> 3563.44] and calling us to know and believe -[3563.44 --> 3565.12] and then therefore be -[3565.12 --> 3571.18] helps meet some of that wrong assumption head-on -[3571.18 --> 3573.62] and helps challenge some of that reality. -[3575.14 --> 3578.12] And so, I beg of you, -[3578.76 --> 3581.04] let's do this hard work together -[3581.04 --> 3583.46] because I really think it matters. -[3584.84 --> 3587.14] Not only for us here, -[3587.14 --> 3591.18] but for the next generation of Christians -[3591.18 --> 3594.46] rising up in the world today. -[3595.80 --> 3596.88] So, as we dig, -[3596.98 --> 3599.42] remember then where we have been. -[3600.08 --> 3600.24] Okay? -[3600.38 --> 3601.98] So, hopefully your Bibles are open. -[3602.10 --> 3604.64] I'm going to jump around chapter 9 a little bit -[3604.64 --> 3606.00] coming into where we are. -[3606.96 --> 3609.00] Paul, the Apostle Paul, -[3609.68 --> 3611.18] writing to a group of Christians -[3611.18 --> 3612.26] that he has not met, -[3612.34 --> 3614.28] a church that he has not founded, -[3614.48 --> 3616.74] but many of whom he knows by name -[3616.74 --> 3617.76] or by influence, -[3618.76 --> 3620.84] Paul is writing to them -[3620.84 --> 3624.06] this magnum opus of a letter -[3624.06 --> 3625.56] in the book of Romans -[3625.56 --> 3627.32] and he has come to this point -[3627.32 --> 3629.22] where he is anguished -[3629.22 --> 3631.04] in soul and in heart -[3631.04 --> 3633.34] over his fellow Israelites -[3633.34 --> 3634.30] not believing. -[3635.10 --> 3637.16] Even though, he says, -[3637.22 --> 3638.74] they've had every advantage -[3638.74 --> 3640.04] and every opportunity. -[3641.60 --> 3643.12] Now, the historical reality -[3643.12 --> 3645.52] that Paul is writing into here -[3645.52 --> 3648.20] is that once the disciples -[3648.20 --> 3649.98] left Judea, -[3650.70 --> 3651.96] right, Jesus commissioned them -[3651.96 --> 3653.30] to go into all the world -[3653.30 --> 3654.12] as missionaries, -[3654.44 --> 3656.52] once the early church was founded -[3656.52 --> 3660.02] in most every major Roman city -[3660.02 --> 3660.86] in the empire, -[3661.12 --> 3663.12] the majority of Christians, -[3663.32 --> 3664.70] that is the majority of people -[3664.70 --> 3666.66] who repent and believe, -[3667.08 --> 3668.86] are not Jewish. -[3668.86 --> 3673.98] And that breaks Paul's Jewish heart. -[3675.58 --> 3677.06] The Jewish people, Paul says, -[3677.12 --> 3678.00] had the promises, -[3678.22 --> 3679.24] the prophets, the law, -[3679.34 --> 3679.94] and the temple. -[3680.54 --> 3682.08] We can build on that. -[3682.14 --> 3683.78] They had Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. -[3683.96 --> 3685.64] They had Moses, Joshua, and David. -[3685.82 --> 3688.30] They had Isaiah, Elijah, and Ezekiel. -[3688.38 --> 3690.64] They had Deborah and Naomi and Esther. -[3690.64 --> 3694.10] And even with every advantage, -[3695.04 --> 3698.70] so many of them missed Jesus. -[3698.86 --> 3703.96] Now, Paul makes the point -[3703.96 --> 3706.36] in chapter 9 very clearly -[3706.36 --> 3708.12] that the advantage -[3708.12 --> 3711.46] does not equal the lived reality. -[3712.88 --> 3712.96] Right? -[3713.06 --> 3714.08] Having the advantage -[3714.08 --> 3716.04] does not mean you automatically get it. -[3716.68 --> 3716.86] Right? -[3716.88 --> 3718.52] He says in verse 6, -[3718.78 --> 3720.86] not all who are descended from Israel -[3720.86 --> 3721.74] are Israel. -[3722.34 --> 3723.74] The point he makes there, -[3723.76 --> 3725.28] and we looked at this a couple weeks ago, -[3725.52 --> 3727.24] is that there's a deeper -[3727.24 --> 3729.02] spiritual identity -[3729.02 --> 3730.34] that matters. -[3730.34 --> 3732.12] A spiritual identity -[3732.12 --> 3734.80] and a reality that is held, -[3735.14 --> 3736.78] upheld, and directed -[3736.78 --> 3739.36] by a sovereign God. -[3740.46 --> 3741.56] And remember, right, -[3741.70 --> 3744.34] sovereignty is the theological word -[3744.92 --> 3747.74] for God's right to rule and reign. -[3748.64 --> 3749.76] We have said before, -[3749.88 --> 3751.44] for God to be God, -[3751.54 --> 3753.26] he must be sovereign. -[3753.26 --> 3756.42] And as sovereign God -[3756.42 --> 3758.48] does what he does, -[3759.28 --> 3761.08] he does so in order that, -[3761.14 --> 3761.68] verse 11, -[3761.78 --> 3762.78] if you're following along, -[3763.28 --> 3765.14] his purpose in election -[3765.14 --> 3766.52] might stand. -[3767.84 --> 3769.00] Now, election means -[3769.00 --> 3770.76] that God chooses -[3770.76 --> 3772.42] and makes you able -[3772.42 --> 3773.60] to choose in response. -[3774.14 --> 3775.96] And as Paul says in verse 12, -[3776.46 --> 3777.70] it's not by works, -[3777.92 --> 3779.34] but by him who calls. -[3779.34 --> 3781.80] And Paul continues. -[3781.92 --> 3783.24] He underscores this point -[3783.24 --> 3785.04] in the sovereignty of God -[3785.04 --> 3785.74] by saying, -[3786.50 --> 3787.30] verse 16, -[3787.40 --> 3788.48] for you who are following along, -[3789.74 --> 3790.70] it does not depend -[3790.70 --> 3792.58] on human desire or effort, -[3792.78 --> 3794.72] but on God's mercy. -[3796.48 --> 3797.14] And we learned -[3797.14 --> 3798.16] from the first part -[3798.16 --> 3799.48] of the book of Romans, right, -[3799.54 --> 3801.26] that we've been given over -[3801.26 --> 3802.80] to our sinful desires. -[3802.94 --> 3804.14] That's chapter 1, verse 24. -[3804.66 --> 3805.28] And so, -[3805.50 --> 3806.48] what we're seeing again -[3806.48 --> 3807.50] is that salvation -[3807.50 --> 3808.66] cannot depend -[3808.66 --> 3809.82] on human desire -[3809.82 --> 3810.70] because we would -[3810.70 --> 3811.56] never desire it. -[3812.98 --> 3813.32] Right? -[3813.36 --> 3815.42] We learned in chapter 3 -[3815.42 --> 3816.76] that there is no one -[3816.76 --> 3817.18] righteous, -[3817.32 --> 3818.06] not even one. -[3818.16 --> 3818.74] There's no one -[3818.74 --> 3819.54] who understands. -[3819.92 --> 3820.90] There is not one -[3820.90 --> 3821.94] who seeks God. -[3822.06 --> 3823.02] There is no one -[3823.02 --> 3823.94] who does good, -[3824.28 --> 3825.18] not even one. -[3825.98 --> 3826.84] And so, -[3827.08 --> 3828.30] salvation can't depend -[3828.30 --> 3829.18] on human effort -[3829.18 --> 3829.58] because, -[3830.42 --> 3830.86] to be frank, -[3830.86 --> 3832.10] we just don't have it in us. -[3832.70 --> 3833.46] But we can't lift -[3833.46 --> 3834.04] that weight. -[3834.04 --> 3836.58] It has to be -[3836.58 --> 3838.08] God's mercy. -[3839.08 --> 3840.10] All of this -[3840.10 --> 3840.92] has to be -[3840.92 --> 3842.16] from Him -[3842.16 --> 3843.38] and of Him -[3843.38 --> 3844.92] because you and I -[3844.92 --> 3846.56] just don't desire it -[3846.56 --> 3847.84] and just can't do it -[3847.84 --> 3848.92] apart from Him -[3848.92 --> 3850.30] doing it in us. -[3851.38 --> 3853.08] And the reality -[3853.08 --> 3853.98] that we're beginning -[3853.98 --> 3855.70] to unpack here -[3855.70 --> 3856.10] is that -[3856.10 --> 3858.30] if you find yourself -[3858.30 --> 3859.48] desiring it, -[3860.06 --> 3861.92] even while struggling, -[3861.92 --> 3864.32] if you find yourself -[3864.32 --> 3865.68] able to do these things -[3865.68 --> 3867.00] that God calls us to do, -[3867.26 --> 3868.80] even in the midst -[3868.80 --> 3870.20] of repeated failure, -[3871.40 --> 3872.66] even in the midst -[3872.66 --> 3873.88] of it being imperfect, -[3874.62 --> 3876.14] the spiritual reality -[3876.14 --> 3877.00] behind that -[3877.00 --> 3877.92] or undergirding -[3877.92 --> 3878.52] all of that -[3878.52 --> 3879.30] is that He, -[3879.56 --> 3879.82] God, -[3879.88 --> 3880.92] has already done -[3880.92 --> 3881.90] something in you. -[3882.10 --> 3883.20] He's already started -[3883.20 --> 3884.46] something in you. -[3885.68 --> 3886.84] And in theology, -[3887.22 --> 3888.36] we call that -[3888.36 --> 3889.06] regeneration. -[3889.06 --> 3891.72] Now, I know that -[3891.72 --> 3892.36] that for some -[3892.36 --> 3893.72] is a $5 -[3893.72 --> 3895.48] pastor study word, -[3896.16 --> 3896.60] but it comes -[3896.60 --> 3897.08] from the Bible. -[3897.62 --> 3899.14] Titus 3, 5 -[3899.14 --> 3900.40] puts it this way -[3900.40 --> 3900.82] and I think -[3900.82 --> 3901.76] it helps our understanding. -[3903.46 --> 3904.68] He saved us -[3904.68 --> 3906.04] not because of -[3906.04 --> 3907.12] righteous things -[3907.12 --> 3907.94] we had done, -[3908.08 --> 3909.04] but because of -[3909.04 --> 3910.00] His mercy. -[3910.12 --> 3910.96] He saved us -[3910.96 --> 3911.78] through the washing -[3911.78 --> 3912.90] of rebirth -[3912.90 --> 3914.14] and renewal -[3914.14 --> 3915.32] by the Holy Spirit. -[3916.40 --> 3917.36] The ESV -[3917.36 --> 3918.68] translates that same line, -[3918.68 --> 3919.20] but according -[3919.20 --> 3919.94] to His own mercy -[3919.94 --> 3920.96] by the washing -[3920.96 --> 3922.32] of regeneration, -[3923.34 --> 3924.44] the renewal -[3924.44 --> 3926.10] of His Spirit. -[3927.24 --> 3927.74] And so I hope -[3927.74 --> 3929.30] that as you play -[3929.30 --> 3929.84] with that word -[3929.84 --> 3930.60] in your imagination -[3930.60 --> 3931.36] that you begin -[3931.36 --> 3932.24] to see it, right? -[3932.36 --> 3933.26] You have re, -[3933.46 --> 3935.16] re meaning again, -[3935.68 --> 3935.88] right? -[3936.08 --> 3937.10] And generation -[3937.10 --> 3938.58] meaning born out -[3938.58 --> 3939.18] or to. -[3939.84 --> 3940.58] Regeneration -[3940.58 --> 3941.58] literally means -[3941.58 --> 3942.86] born again. -[3944.66 --> 3945.48] Remember what Jesus -[3945.48 --> 3947.16] said in John 3, -[3947.32 --> 3947.98] verse 3. -[3948.68 --> 3949.64] Very truly, -[3949.80 --> 3950.34] I tell you, -[3950.90 --> 3951.94] no one can see -[3951.94 --> 3953.10] the kingdom of God -[3953.10 --> 3954.38] unless they are -[3954.38 --> 3956.88] born again. -[3959.18 --> 3960.12] That's Paul's -[3960.12 --> 3961.84] point here. -[3963.04 --> 3963.66] Salvation -[3963.66 --> 3965.10] comes by -[3965.10 --> 3966.04] believing, -[3966.48 --> 3967.44] by faith, -[3967.48 --> 3968.46] because of -[3968.46 --> 3969.72] God's mercy. -[3970.24 --> 3970.76] Belief -[3970.76 --> 3971.82] comes not -[3971.82 --> 3972.72] by works, -[3972.72 --> 3974.08] but as God's gift -[3974.08 --> 3974.84] to those -[3974.84 --> 3975.34] who are -[3975.34 --> 3976.48] born again, -[3976.62 --> 3976.92] who are -[3976.92 --> 3978.26] regenerated. -[3979.90 --> 3980.10] Now, -[3980.30 --> 3981.52] I get it, -[3982.00 --> 3982.94] and I see it -[3982.94 --> 3983.92] in some of you. -[3984.12 --> 3985.06] You're glazing over -[3985.06 --> 3985.92] and you're wondering -[3985.92 --> 3986.78] what is the purpose -[3986.78 --> 3987.40] of all of this -[3987.40 --> 3988.00] and how on earth -[3988.00 --> 3988.74] does this connect -[3988.74 --> 3989.84] to that struggle -[3989.84 --> 3990.40] at the beginning? -[3990.96 --> 3991.52] And I get not -[3991.52 --> 3992.06] everyone loves -[3992.06 --> 3993.10] theology behind it. -[3993.56 --> 3994.70] So let me simplify. -[3996.44 --> 3997.70] In order for you -[3997.70 --> 3998.70] to have faith, -[3999.10 --> 3999.66] to believe, -[3999.66 --> 4001.40] you must be -[4001.40 --> 4003.12] born of faith. -[4003.82 --> 4004.72] Born again -[4004.72 --> 4005.72] or regenerated. -[4005.90 --> 4007.20] That's the big idea -[4007.20 --> 4008.24] this morning. -[4008.48 --> 4009.86] This is the banner -[4009.86 --> 4011.24] that we are operating -[4011.24 --> 4011.48] under. -[4011.56 --> 4012.84] In order to have faith, -[4012.94 --> 4013.66] you must be -[4013.66 --> 4014.98] born of faith. -[4016.00 --> 4017.04] The word used -[4017.04 --> 4017.52] for that -[4017.52 --> 4018.80] is regeneration. -[4020.00 --> 4020.76] And that regeneration -[4020.76 --> 4022.42] is not in response -[4022.42 --> 4023.82] to anything you do, -[4023.82 --> 4024.42] but -[4024.42 --> 4026.20] God's mercy -[4026.20 --> 4027.50] and His choice. -[4028.82 --> 4029.12] Again, -[4029.12 --> 4029.86] let me say it clearly. -[4030.32 --> 4032.14] Because of God's choice, -[4032.30 --> 4033.30] because of His purpose -[4033.30 --> 4034.06] in election, -[4034.24 --> 4035.54] He is merciful to some, -[4035.86 --> 4037.46] and those who receive -[4037.46 --> 4038.54] God's mercy, -[4038.84 --> 4040.04] He regenerates. -[4040.12 --> 4040.36] That is, -[4040.40 --> 4041.80] He makes born again. -[4042.38 --> 4044.54] Those who are born again -[4044.54 --> 4046.10] have faith. -[4047.12 --> 4047.80] Or to put it -[4047.80 --> 4050.00] in classical terms, -[4050.66 --> 4051.36] regeneration -[4051.36 --> 4053.62] precedes faith. -[4056.80 --> 4057.40] Now, -[4057.40 --> 4059.56] if you know -[4059.56 --> 4060.40] church history, -[4061.34 --> 4062.62] you know that -[4062.62 --> 4063.76] those are fighting words. -[4066.06 --> 4066.58] Regeneration -[4066.58 --> 4067.48] precedes faith. -[4068.22 --> 4069.36] That's a core -[4069.36 --> 4070.52] doctrine of the -[4070.52 --> 4071.68] Reformed Church, -[4071.74 --> 4072.40] part of which -[4072.40 --> 4073.00] we are, -[4073.08 --> 4074.70] the Christian Reformed Church. -[4075.08 --> 4075.72] That's not just -[4075.72 --> 4076.46] a fancy word, -[4076.56 --> 4077.10] that's a title -[4077.10 --> 4079.26] that associates us -[4079.26 --> 4080.26] with a certain history -[4080.26 --> 4081.54] and lineage in faith. -[4082.18 --> 4083.92] And in the 17th century, -[4083.92 --> 4085.90] this idea that -[4085.90 --> 4087.74] regeneration precedes faith -[4087.74 --> 4090.00] is a hallmark -[4090.00 --> 4091.52] of the Reformed -[4091.52 --> 4092.28] versus the -[4092.28 --> 4093.74] Remonstrance debate -[4093.74 --> 4094.42] that took place -[4094.42 --> 4095.14] in the Netherlands, -[4095.36 --> 4095.94] for instance. -[4097.12 --> 4098.82] In the 5th century, -[4099.04 --> 4100.22] even further back, -[4100.32 --> 4102.42] this is the hallmark -[4102.42 --> 4103.50] of the debate -[4103.50 --> 4105.34] between Augustine -[4105.34 --> 4106.38] as a church father -[4106.38 --> 4107.60] and Pelagius -[4107.60 --> 4109.66] as another theologian -[4109.66 --> 4110.18] of the time, -[4110.32 --> 4111.08] Augustinian and -[4111.08 --> 4112.66] Pelagian controversy. -[4112.66 --> 4114.70] A little bit more recently, -[4114.92 --> 4116.24] in the 18th century, -[4116.50 --> 4117.34] this idea -[4117.34 --> 4118.14] that regeneration -[4118.14 --> 4119.46] precedes faith -[4119.46 --> 4122.36] was part and parcel -[4122.36 --> 4123.66] of the back and forth -[4123.66 --> 4125.14] between a preacher -[4125.14 --> 4126.24] named John Wesley, -[4126.44 --> 4127.44] who was more Arminian, -[4127.64 --> 4128.18] and a preacher -[4128.18 --> 4129.20] named George Whitefield, -[4129.28 --> 4130.10] who was more Reformed. -[4131.46 --> 4132.58] As well, this week, -[4132.66 --> 4133.18] and I get it, -[4133.20 --> 4133.78] I'm nerding out, -[4133.88 --> 4134.48] just bear with me -[4134.48 --> 4135.18] for a few more minutes. -[4136.04 --> 4136.76] This week, -[4136.82 --> 4137.70] I read a letter -[4137.70 --> 4139.46] by Jonathan Edwards, -[4140.38 --> 4142.40] who in the 18th century -[4142.40 --> 4143.78] was a pastor -[4143.78 --> 4144.60] in New England. -[4145.40 --> 4146.16] He wrote a letter -[4146.16 --> 4147.60] to Jonathan Erskine, -[4148.18 --> 4149.20] who was a pastor -[4149.20 --> 4150.42] at the same time -[4150.42 --> 4151.08] in Scotland, -[4151.66 --> 4153.10] and they were discussing -[4153.10 --> 4154.50] a critique -[4154.50 --> 4157.76] of Henry Holmes, -[4157.96 --> 4159.12] Lord Kames, -[4159.38 --> 4160.30] in Scotland -[4160.30 --> 4162.06] that he was writing -[4162.06 --> 4163.28] about Jonathan Edwards, -[4163.38 --> 4164.22] and the exchange -[4164.22 --> 4164.94] back and forth -[4164.94 --> 4166.24] was on the interpretation -[4166.24 --> 4167.26] of this doctrine. -[4168.42 --> 4169.30] Point is, -[4169.34 --> 4169.80] and the reason why -[4169.80 --> 4171.08] I'm sharing this, -[4171.46 --> 4171.86] is that there's been -[4171.86 --> 4173.26] a lot of ink spilt -[4173.26 --> 4174.68] over this idea. -[4176.04 --> 4176.88] And I don't want to -[4176.88 --> 4177.78] too easily dismiss -[4177.78 --> 4178.54] any of that. -[4179.08 --> 4179.98] And I'm happy to have -[4179.98 --> 4181.14] any further conversation -[4181.14 --> 4182.28] that anyone wants to have. -[4182.64 --> 4184.54] But the clearest sense, -[4185.06 --> 4186.56] the clearest sense -[4186.56 --> 4187.50] that I can make -[4187.50 --> 4188.72] of what Paul says here -[4188.72 --> 4189.22] in the text -[4189.22 --> 4190.04] that we read -[4190.04 --> 4192.28] in verse 30 -[4192.28 --> 4193.88] connects directly -[4193.88 --> 4194.80] to regeneration -[4195.38 --> 4196.46] preceding faith -[4196.46 --> 4199.58] and the vitality -[4199.58 --> 4200.68] of the Christian church -[4200.68 --> 4202.56] in today's world. -[4203.96 --> 4205.02] Let me draw that line -[4205.02 --> 4205.32] for you. -[4205.42 --> 4206.14] Look at verse 30. -[4207.46 --> 4207.94] Paul says, -[4208.80 --> 4210.22] What then shall we say? -[4210.74 --> 4211.82] That the Gentiles -[4211.82 --> 4212.70] who did not pursue -[4212.70 --> 4213.16] righteousness -[4213.16 --> 4213.98] have obtained it, -[4214.04 --> 4214.70] a righteousness -[4214.70 --> 4217.50] that is by faith. -[4218.54 --> 4218.86] Right? -[4218.90 --> 4220.38] That only makes sense -[4220.38 --> 4222.10] if regeneration -[4222.10 --> 4224.08] precedes faith. -[4224.08 --> 4226.38] We didn't pursue -[4226.38 --> 4227.04] righteousness. -[4229.04 --> 4230.02] But grace, -[4230.14 --> 4230.66] by grace, -[4230.78 --> 4231.34] we have it. -[4232.08 --> 4233.64] And how can we get it -[4233.64 --> 4235.08] unless it was given? -[4235.86 --> 4237.72] Because we didn't go get it. -[4240.72 --> 4242.06] We have it -[4242.06 --> 4243.78] because of faith. -[4244.66 --> 4246.76] But faith that we didn't make -[4246.76 --> 4248.24] or we didn't work out, -[4248.24 --> 4250.08] faith that was given. -[4250.08 --> 4252.62] Belief comes -[4252.62 --> 4254.94] after regeneration. -[4255.26 --> 4255.50] And again, -[4255.82 --> 4256.66] I get that I'm, -[4257.54 --> 4258.98] this is maybe technical. -[4260.06 --> 4260.48] Remember, -[4260.82 --> 4261.06] you know, -[4261.08 --> 4261.72] a couple weeks ago -[4261.72 --> 4262.12] we said we had to -[4262.12 --> 4262.74] roll up our sleeves. -[4263.12 --> 4263.88] Our sleeves are fully -[4263.88 --> 4264.64] rolled up right now. -[4265.72 --> 4267.00] But why does this matter? -[4267.80 --> 4268.98] Or does it matter? -[4270.18 --> 4270.66] Let me just say -[4270.66 --> 4272.00] by way of contrast, -[4272.50 --> 4273.44] it matters -[4273.44 --> 4274.48] in Paul's writing here -[4274.48 --> 4275.40] for the Israelites -[4275.40 --> 4277.46] who missed out on it -[4277.46 --> 4279.24] because they came at it wrong. -[4280.08 --> 4280.72] Right? -[4280.80 --> 4281.88] They're operating -[4281.88 --> 4283.88] out of non-regeneration -[4283.88 --> 4284.88] and operating -[4284.88 --> 4285.78] out of non-regeneration -[4285.78 --> 4287.50] will always default -[4287.50 --> 4290.30] to law and legalism. -[4291.52 --> 4292.12] Again, -[4292.32 --> 4293.14] look at what Paul writes -[4293.14 --> 4293.96] in verse 31. -[4296.22 --> 4297.90] The people of Israel, -[4298.04 --> 4298.48] and remember, -[4298.64 --> 4299.54] Paul's made a distinction -[4299.54 --> 4301.10] that not all of Israel -[4301.10 --> 4302.00] is Israel. -[4302.22 --> 4303.46] These are the non-spiritual -[4303.46 --> 4304.88] descendants of Abraham, -[4305.08 --> 4305.24] right? -[4305.72 --> 4307.06] The people of Israel -[4307.06 --> 4308.34] who pursued the law -[4308.34 --> 4309.52] as the way of righteousness -[4309.52 --> 4311.24] have not attained -[4311.24 --> 4312.44] their goal. -[4313.70 --> 4315.26] So they tried the law -[4315.26 --> 4316.32] as a way of righteousness -[4316.32 --> 4317.66] and they didn't get -[4317.66 --> 4318.18] what they wanted. -[4319.26 --> 4319.96] Why not? -[4320.04 --> 4320.76] Well, Paul continues -[4320.76 --> 4321.54] in verse 32, -[4322.24 --> 4323.46] because they pursued it -[4323.46 --> 4324.54] not by faith, -[4324.98 --> 4326.30] but as if it were -[4326.30 --> 4327.70] by works. -[4329.12 --> 4329.40] You see, -[4329.46 --> 4331.02] they thought they could do it -[4331.02 --> 4332.50] or that they had to do it -[4332.50 --> 4333.30] on their own -[4333.30 --> 4335.16] or for their own. -[4335.16 --> 4337.34] And that's why -[4337.34 --> 4338.40] this doctrine matters. -[4339.84 --> 4340.28] And here's why -[4340.28 --> 4341.54] the doctrine of generation -[4341.54 --> 4342.66] preceding faith -[4342.66 --> 4344.32] continues to be so important, -[4344.44 --> 4344.62] right? -[4344.66 --> 4346.34] Because we live in a world -[4346.34 --> 4347.96] and we live in a time -[4347.96 --> 4350.24] when most people think, -[4350.60 --> 4352.74] especially in the West, -[4352.88 --> 4354.52] especially with the legacy -[4354.52 --> 4355.76] of Christian morality -[4355.76 --> 4357.04] that stands behind us, -[4357.30 --> 4357.92] people think, -[4358.34 --> 4360.98] let me do just a few good things -[4360.98 --> 4362.42] and I'll be all right. -[4362.42 --> 4364.82] if I'm a good person -[4364.82 --> 4366.90] and I do good things, -[4367.08 --> 4367.20] right? -[4367.22 --> 4368.48] And when I say good things, -[4368.56 --> 4369.62] here in the language -[4369.62 --> 4370.14] of the Bible, -[4370.52 --> 4371.26] pursue the law -[4371.26 --> 4372.16] as the way of righteousness, -[4372.52 --> 4374.02] if I do those good things, -[4374.14 --> 4374.96] I'll be fine. -[4377.22 --> 4377.66] Right? -[4377.74 --> 4379.36] Even if there is a God -[4379.36 --> 4380.86] or even if there isn't, -[4381.26 --> 4382.66] all you have to do -[4382.66 --> 4383.48] is try. -[4385.16 --> 4387.02] That's the world we live in. -[4388.26 --> 4388.38] Right? -[4388.48 --> 4391.06] And let's be honest, -[4391.06 --> 4393.76] not just the world out there, -[4393.80 --> 4394.58] but the world in here, -[4394.82 --> 4395.04] right? -[4395.18 --> 4397.12] We're part and parcel of this. -[4398.70 --> 4399.64] It's not even that -[4399.64 --> 4400.56] we have to try hard. -[4402.12 --> 4402.28] Right? -[4402.28 --> 4403.18] Just do a little bit -[4403.18 --> 4404.52] and that'll be enough. -[4405.78 --> 4406.70] But what does Paul say? -[4407.14 --> 4407.62] Paul says, -[4407.72 --> 4408.90] they have not attained -[4408.90 --> 4409.60] their goal. -[4410.08 --> 4411.22] Their goal was -[4411.22 --> 4412.44] the righteousness of God -[4412.44 --> 4413.48] and the kingdom of heaven, -[4413.58 --> 4414.84] but they didn't get it. -[4416.40 --> 4416.82] And so, -[4416.82 --> 4418.72] why do so many of us -[4418.72 --> 4419.22] today, -[4419.22 --> 4419.90] here, -[4420.26 --> 4421.06] think that we will? -[4423.26 --> 4424.20] Here's the thing. -[4425.24 --> 4426.68] Even people, -[4426.88 --> 4429.12] even people -[4429.12 --> 4430.74] who come to church -[4430.74 --> 4432.12] every week -[4432.12 --> 4433.12] think -[4433.12 --> 4434.56] that that means -[4434.56 --> 4436.22] a mark in their favor -[4436.22 --> 4437.42] and that they're doing good. -[4438.68 --> 4439.24] Now, don't hear -[4439.24 --> 4439.82] what I'm not saying. -[4439.92 --> 4440.02] Right? -[4440.04 --> 4440.44] I'm not saying -[4440.44 --> 4441.20] don't come to church. -[4442.10 --> 4443.14] If you heard that, -[4443.36 --> 4444.16] you missed it. -[4445.40 --> 4445.86] Right? -[4445.86 --> 4446.48] I'm saying -[4446.48 --> 4447.44] you come to church -[4447.44 --> 4448.52] because you've been -[4448.52 --> 4449.80] regenerated and have faith. -[4449.98 --> 4451.64] Not to check some box. -[4452.36 --> 4452.98] Because here's how -[4452.98 --> 4453.84] that works in our minds. -[4453.92 --> 4454.02] Right? -[4454.14 --> 4454.92] How many times -[4454.92 --> 4456.04] have you come to church -[4456.04 --> 4457.08] as an attempt -[4457.08 --> 4458.88] to balance the scales -[4458.88 --> 4459.72] of obedience -[4459.72 --> 4460.82] and disobedience -[4460.82 --> 4461.84] in your own life? -[4461.84 --> 4465.40] You know, -[4465.50 --> 4467.08] I slipped up -[4467.08 --> 4467.90] on Tuesday night. -[4468.30 --> 4469.32] I watched a little bit -[4469.32 --> 4469.70] of porn. -[4470.16 --> 4470.90] Better go to church -[4470.90 --> 4471.42] on Sunday -[4471.42 --> 4472.30] to make sure -[4472.30 --> 4472.84] that the ledger -[4472.84 --> 4473.30] is equal. -[4475.50 --> 4476.58] And I got angry -[4476.58 --> 4477.84] and I swore -[4477.84 --> 4478.60] at that driver -[4478.60 --> 4479.48] who was on the -[4479.48 --> 4480.02] Fraser Highway -[4480.02 --> 4481.40] going 15 kilometers -[4481.40 --> 4482.36] under the speed limit. -[4483.24 --> 4484.22] 15 kilometers! -[4484.82 --> 4485.82] Wasn't even a construction -[4485.82 --> 4486.18] zone. -[4486.54 --> 4487.22] They deserved it. -[4487.22 --> 4487.66] But, -[4487.90 --> 4489.82] I better pray a little -[4489.82 --> 4491.38] just to make sure -[4491.38 --> 4492.18] it's okay with God. -[4494.28 --> 4495.10] And I'm not really -[4495.10 --> 4495.66] stealing -[4495.66 --> 4497.06] when I don't report -[4497.06 --> 4497.80] all the tips -[4497.80 --> 4498.68] that I get at work -[4498.68 --> 4499.40] to my boss -[4499.40 --> 4500.98] for the shared tip pool. -[4501.30 --> 4501.78] Besides, -[4502.02 --> 4502.34] you know what? -[4502.38 --> 4502.78] This weekend -[4502.78 --> 4503.38] I'm volunteering -[4503.38 --> 4504.16] at Youth Coffee -[4504.16 --> 4505.40] so it's okay. -[4505.48 --> 4506.16] It washes out. -[4509.28 --> 4510.52] We do that -[4510.52 --> 4512.70] and that kind -[4512.70 --> 4513.40] of thinking, -[4513.80 --> 4514.66] whatever form -[4514.66 --> 4515.38] it takes -[4515.38 --> 4516.98] in your life -[4516.98 --> 4518.32] is a version -[4518.32 --> 4520.22] of Israel's thinking -[4520.22 --> 4520.98] when they, -[4521.10 --> 4521.68] what did Paul say, -[4521.80 --> 4522.88] pursued righteousness -[4522.88 --> 4523.80] not by faith -[4523.80 --> 4524.60] but as if it were -[4524.60 --> 4525.16] by works -[4525.16 --> 4526.52] and they have not -[4526.52 --> 4528.36] attained their goal. -[4529.96 --> 4531.48] If you believe -[4531.48 --> 4532.72] or say you are -[4532.72 --> 4533.22] a Christian -[4533.22 --> 4534.14] but don't do -[4534.14 --> 4535.18] the kinds of things -[4535.18 --> 4536.32] Christians are called -[4536.32 --> 4536.92] to do -[4536.92 --> 4539.04] or don't -[4539.04 --> 4540.82] reject -[4540.82 --> 4542.10] completely -[4542.10 --> 4543.24] the kinds of things -[4543.24 --> 4543.82] that Jesus -[4543.82 --> 4545.28] would reject -[4545.28 --> 4546.58] that tells me -[4546.58 --> 4547.54] that you think -[4547.54 --> 4548.48] being a Christian -[4548.48 --> 4549.62] is no different -[4549.62 --> 4550.28] than the people -[4550.28 --> 4551.00] of Israel -[4551.00 --> 4551.90] thought about -[4551.90 --> 4552.66] being a descendant -[4552.66 --> 4553.20] of Abraham. -[4555.20 --> 4556.16] And they missed -[4556.16 --> 4556.68] Jesus. -[4557.68 --> 4558.54] They missed -[4558.54 --> 4559.68] Jesus. -[4562.76 --> 4563.14] And so -[4563.14 --> 4566.60] stop -[4566.60 --> 4568.16] presuming -[4568.16 --> 4569.62] and start -[4569.62 --> 4570.86] pursuing. -[4572.44 --> 4573.84] Verse 32 -[4573.84 --> 4577.06] to the last bit -[4577.06 --> 4578.96] Paul says -[4578.96 --> 4580.14] they stumbled -[4580.14 --> 4580.94] over -[4580.94 --> 4582.82] the stumbling stone -[4582.82 --> 4584.50] and then he quotes -[4584.50 --> 4585.10] Isaiah. -[4585.70 --> 4586.42] Now Isaiah -[4586.42 --> 4587.68] in what we have -[4587.68 --> 4588.40] as verse 33 -[4588.40 --> 4590.34] is very clearly -[4590.34 --> 4591.38] talking about -[4591.38 --> 4592.18] Jesus. -[4593.38 --> 4593.90] Jesus -[4593.90 --> 4595.64] is the stone -[4595.64 --> 4596.84] that they stumbled -[4596.84 --> 4597.30] over. -[4598.72 --> 4599.58] And if you -[4599.58 --> 4600.16] think, -[4600.30 --> 4600.90] sitting here, -[4601.06 --> 4601.76] think that doing -[4601.76 --> 4602.80] a couple of good -[4602.80 --> 4604.12] things is enough -[4604.12 --> 4605.24] or if you think -[4605.24 --> 4606.44] that you can be -[4606.44 --> 4607.08] a Christian -[4607.08 --> 4608.44] without Christ, -[4609.00 --> 4609.28] I mean, -[4609.36 --> 4610.24] it's in the name -[4610.24 --> 4611.02] and yet we still -[4611.02 --> 4611.52] think it, -[4611.78 --> 4612.46] if you think -[4612.46 --> 4613.20] you can be a Christian -[4613.20 --> 4613.82] without Christ, -[4613.94 --> 4614.72] you've missed -[4614.72 --> 4615.80] Jesus and you're -[4615.80 --> 4616.54] stumbling over -[4616.54 --> 4617.48] the same stone -[4617.48 --> 4618.26] that they did. -[4619.36 --> 4620.50] And if that's you, -[4620.74 --> 4621.56] that means -[4621.56 --> 4622.20] the faith -[4622.20 --> 4622.88] that you are -[4622.88 --> 4623.48] professing, -[4623.58 --> 4624.20] whatever form -[4624.20 --> 4624.84] it might take -[4624.84 --> 4625.54] or words you might -[4625.54 --> 4626.12] put to it, -[4626.44 --> 4627.48] isn't faith -[4627.48 --> 4628.70] from regeneration. -[4628.70 --> 4631.06] At least, -[4631.56 --> 4632.10] and I pray -[4632.10 --> 4632.66] this is true, -[4633.20 --> 4634.08] it isn't yet -[4634.08 --> 4635.38] faith -[4635.38 --> 4636.46] from regeneration. -[4639.94 --> 4640.42] Because -[4640.42 --> 4643.14] if you have the ears -[4643.14 --> 4643.84] to hear it -[4643.84 --> 4644.96] and the heart -[4644.96 --> 4646.20] to see it, -[4646.86 --> 4648.02] this is -[4648.02 --> 4648.80] Paul -[4648.80 --> 4649.98] pleading -[4649.98 --> 4651.22] for his brothers -[4651.22 --> 4651.88] and sisters. -[4653.28 --> 4653.98] And I hope -[4653.98 --> 4654.66] you hear it too -[4654.66 --> 4655.66] because this is me -[4655.66 --> 4656.26] now standing -[4656.26 --> 4656.76] in front of you -[4656.76 --> 4657.20] begging, -[4657.20 --> 4658.98] hear God. -[4659.32 --> 4660.08] This is God -[4660.08 --> 4661.24] calling to you -[4661.24 --> 4661.52] now. -[4661.90 --> 4663.42] Here's Paul's heart, -[4663.54 --> 4664.90] verse 1 to 3 -[4664.90 --> 4666.24] in chapter 10. -[4667.14 --> 4668.38] Hear him plead -[4668.38 --> 4669.36] and hear him -[4669.36 --> 4669.98] beg with them -[4669.98 --> 4670.78] to hear -[4670.78 --> 4671.38] and to listen. -[4671.74 --> 4672.02] He says, -[4672.34 --> 4673.54] brothers and sisters, -[4674.20 --> 4675.18] my heart's -[4675.18 --> 4676.10] desire -[4676.10 --> 4677.20] and prayer -[4677.20 --> 4678.08] to God -[4678.08 --> 4679.60] for the Israelites -[4679.60 --> 4680.58] is that -[4680.58 --> 4681.48] they may -[4681.48 --> 4682.10] be -[4682.10 --> 4683.06] saved. -[4684.20 --> 4684.92] For I could -[4684.92 --> 4685.44] testify -[4685.44 --> 4686.56] about them -[4686.56 --> 4686.92] that they -[4686.92 --> 4687.58] are zealous -[4687.58 --> 4688.26] for God -[4688.26 --> 4688.90] but their -[4688.90 --> 4689.26] zeal -[4689.26 --> 4689.60] is not -[4689.60 --> 4690.24] based on -[4690.24 --> 4690.82] knowledge. -[4692.12 --> 4692.78] Since they -[4692.78 --> 4693.22] did not -[4693.22 --> 4693.62] know the -[4693.62 --> 4694.10] righteousness -[4694.10 --> 4694.78] of God -[4694.78 --> 4695.14] and sought -[4695.14 --> 4695.84] to establish -[4695.84 --> 4696.64] their own, -[4696.76 --> 4697.08] they did -[4697.08 --> 4698.28] not submit -[4698.28 --> 4699.40] to God's -[4699.40 --> 4700.60] righteousness. -[4701.94 --> 4703.48] Paul pleads -[4703.48 --> 4704.34] for these -[4704.34 --> 4704.80] people. -[4705.44 --> 4706.18] He prays -[4706.18 --> 4706.68] for them. -[4707.68 --> 4707.96] And can I -[4707.96 --> 4708.36] just say that -[4708.36 --> 4709.16] if you -[4709.16 --> 4711.68] know someone -[4711.68 --> 4712.24] who doesn't -[4712.24 --> 4713.10] know Jesus, -[4714.66 --> 4715.58] pray for them. -[4716.56 --> 4717.60] pray for them. -[4718.50 --> 4719.16] As we -[4719.16 --> 4720.22] wrestle together -[4720.22 --> 4720.96] in this time -[4720.96 --> 4721.88] with the -[4721.88 --> 4722.88] mystery of -[4722.88 --> 4723.46] the sovereignty -[4723.46 --> 4724.06] of God -[4724.06 --> 4724.64] and of human -[4724.64 --> 4725.48] responsibility, -[4726.08 --> 4726.78] Paul is -[4726.78 --> 4727.72] modeling for us -[4727.72 --> 4728.58] what some of -[4728.58 --> 4729.38] that responsibility -[4729.38 --> 4730.76] looks like. -[4731.54 --> 4731.90] Pray. -[4732.66 --> 4733.54] Pray for your -[4733.54 --> 4734.50] sons and daughters. -[4734.90 --> 4735.46] Pray for your -[4735.46 --> 4736.24] friends and -[4736.24 --> 4736.58] neighbors. -[4736.80 --> 4737.36] Pray for their -[4737.36 --> 4737.86] conversion. -[4738.12 --> 4738.72] Pray for their -[4738.72 --> 4739.40] regeneration. -[4739.92 --> 4740.24] Pray. -[4740.60 --> 4741.74] Over and over -[4741.74 --> 4742.42] and over again -[4742.42 --> 4742.98] in the Bible, -[4742.98 --> 4744.06] it is confirmed -[4744.06 --> 4744.82] with this -[4744.82 --> 4745.64] truth that -[4745.64 --> 4746.68] our sovereign -[4746.68 --> 4747.54] God has -[4747.54 --> 4748.66] ordained that -[4748.66 --> 4749.40] the prayers -[4749.40 --> 4750.98] of the saints -[4750.98 --> 4752.24] shape history -[4752.24 --> 4753.08] and change -[4753.08 --> 4753.52] lives. -[4754.70 --> 4755.28] Whether it's -[4755.28 --> 4756.22] Daniel's prayer -[4756.22 --> 4757.08] of repentance -[4757.08 --> 4758.06] for the whole -[4758.06 --> 4758.82] nation of Israel -[4758.82 --> 4759.38] while they were -[4759.38 --> 4760.12] still in exile -[4760.12 --> 4761.00] that moves God -[4761.00 --> 4762.14] to release them -[4762.14 --> 4762.50] even though he -[4762.50 --> 4763.12] had foreordained -[4763.12 --> 4763.80] it years before, -[4763.92 --> 4764.50] the prayer was -[4764.50 --> 4765.62] still necessary. -[4766.14 --> 4766.76] Whether it's -[4766.76 --> 4767.54] Ezra's prayer -[4767.54 --> 4768.24] of confession -[4768.24 --> 4768.96] and the people's -[4768.96 --> 4769.90] promise in response -[4769.90 --> 4770.60] to the building -[4770.60 --> 4771.16] of the temple -[4771.16 --> 4771.84] and the rebuilding -[4771.84 --> 4772.92] of Jerusalem. -[4774.20 --> 4775.62] A motivation -[4775.62 --> 4776.24] of heart -[4776.24 --> 4777.66] that was necessary -[4777.66 --> 4778.70] for that to happen. -[4778.78 --> 4779.52] Or if it's Paul -[4779.52 --> 4780.58] praying with -[4780.58 --> 4781.18] thanksgiving -[4781.18 --> 4781.98] for the church -[4781.98 --> 4782.88] in Philippi -[4782.88 --> 4783.96] calling them -[4783.96 --> 4784.64] to be faithful -[4784.64 --> 4785.26] and joyful -[4785.26 --> 4786.38] even though -[4786.38 --> 4787.62] he is in chains -[4787.62 --> 4788.54] and they might -[4788.54 --> 4789.28] face suffering. -[4790.48 --> 4791.84] Or if it's Jesus -[4791.84 --> 4793.82] praying for the church -[4793.82 --> 4796.06] even as the world -[4796.06 --> 4798.34] hates the disciples, -[4799.12 --> 4799.70] Jesus says, -[4799.90 --> 4800.26] but you, -[4800.26 --> 4801.48] you must be -[4801.48 --> 4802.40] one. -[4803.84 --> 4805.02] Prayer changes -[4805.02 --> 4805.88] hearts. -[4806.32 --> 4807.34] Prayer changes -[4807.34 --> 4808.24] history. -[4808.44 --> 4809.02] And so, -[4809.50 --> 4809.78] pray. -[4810.46 --> 4811.44] If you don't know -[4811.44 --> 4812.42] what your responsibility -[4812.42 --> 4814.20] is in salvation, -[4814.70 --> 4814.96] pray. -[4816.18 --> 4817.34] That's what it is. -[4817.88 --> 4818.22] Or at least -[4818.22 --> 4818.94] that's where it starts. -[4821.24 --> 4822.94] A couple weeks ago -[4822.94 --> 4823.66] I had the chance -[4823.66 --> 4825.86] to go to -[4825.86 --> 4827.68] a bit of a conference, -[4827.76 --> 4828.54] a day event -[4828.54 --> 4830.72] put on by -[4830.72 --> 4831.58] Power to Change. -[4831.80 --> 4833.30] And there was -[4833.30 --> 4834.00] a bunch of -[4834.00 --> 4834.92] leaders, -[4835.40 --> 4836.28] church leaders -[4836.28 --> 4837.52] and business leaders, -[4837.72 --> 4838.64] Christian thought leaders -[4838.64 --> 4839.84] who were gathered together -[4839.84 --> 4841.72] to begin wondering, -[4842.10 --> 4842.40] thinking, -[4842.64 --> 4843.62] dreaming about -[4843.62 --> 4844.60] what might God -[4844.60 --> 4845.22] be doing -[4845.22 --> 4846.26] in this time, -[4846.42 --> 4847.24] in this age, -[4847.30 --> 4848.74] in this context. -[4848.74 --> 4850.30] And one of the speakers -[4850.30 --> 4851.16] was a woman -[4851.16 --> 4851.74] named -[4851.74 --> 4853.10] Shayla Visser. -[4853.66 --> 4854.86] Shayla is the director -[4854.86 --> 4856.42] of Alpha Canada. -[4857.76 --> 4859.16] And she said something -[4859.16 --> 4861.34] that convicted me -[4861.34 --> 4862.22] to the core -[4862.22 --> 4862.80] in that moment. -[4862.88 --> 4863.38] And I've shared it -[4863.38 --> 4863.88] with some of you. -[4864.86 --> 4865.56] She said, -[4866.22 --> 4868.38] churches often ask me -[4868.38 --> 4869.10] to come -[4869.10 --> 4870.48] and to talk to them -[4870.48 --> 4871.82] about how they can be -[4871.82 --> 4872.72] more missional, -[4873.12 --> 4874.02] about how they can be -[4874.02 --> 4875.02] more on mission -[4875.02 --> 4876.60] making new disciples. -[4876.60 --> 4876.72] disciples. -[4877.28 --> 4879.00] And my first question -[4879.00 --> 4879.44] to them -[4879.44 --> 4880.82] always is, -[4881.52 --> 4882.92] how does your church -[4882.92 --> 4883.56] pray? -[4888.76 --> 4890.00] How does your church -[4890.00 --> 4890.32] pray? -[4890.86 --> 4891.70] How do you -[4891.70 --> 4892.58] pray? -[4892.68 --> 4893.30] How do we -[4893.30 --> 4894.30] pray -[4894.30 --> 4896.32] for this? -[4896.32 --> 4901.12] So let's come back -[4901.12 --> 4902.52] now to the beginning. -[4902.68 --> 4903.56] I have been wondering -[4903.56 --> 4904.74] lately if, -[4905.70 --> 4906.56] as Christians, -[4906.80 --> 4908.92] in our 21st century -[4908.92 --> 4910.46] Canadian context, -[4911.06 --> 4912.60] if we have settled -[4912.60 --> 4914.28] for a vaguely -[4914.28 --> 4915.66] Christian morality -[4915.66 --> 4917.38] rather than -[4917.38 --> 4918.30] a deeply -[4918.30 --> 4920.54] spirit-filled, -[4921.12 --> 4922.60] transformed life. -[4922.60 --> 4924.90] right? -[4924.96 --> 4925.72] If society -[4925.72 --> 4926.30] acts -[4926.30 --> 4927.32] Christianly, -[4927.56 --> 4929.42] then we're just -[4929.42 --> 4930.10] not concerned -[4930.10 --> 4931.44] with regeneration -[4931.44 --> 4933.30] because acting -[4933.30 --> 4933.84] Christian -[4933.84 --> 4934.70] is enough -[4934.70 --> 4936.36] or so we have -[4936.36 --> 4937.56] come to believe -[4937.56 --> 4938.58] or at least -[4938.58 --> 4939.90] function as. -[4941.18 --> 4941.38] Right? -[4941.40 --> 4942.06] If my kids -[4942.06 --> 4942.50] obey -[4942.50 --> 4943.98] and they don't -[4943.98 --> 4944.44] get in trouble -[4944.44 --> 4945.20] with their teachers -[4945.20 --> 4946.74] or, you know, -[4946.78 --> 4947.32] they don't get in trouble -[4947.32 --> 4947.90] with the police, -[4948.66 --> 4950.16] if they respect -[4950.16 --> 4951.12] the lives -[4951.12 --> 4952.46] of people -[4952.46 --> 4953.36] around them -[4953.36 --> 4953.80] and if they -[4953.80 --> 4954.98] heed the authority -[4954.98 --> 4956.74] of those over them, -[4956.86 --> 4957.60] well, that's enough. -[4960.74 --> 4962.00] But we've settled -[4962.00 --> 4964.96] for an unchanged heart. -[4966.60 --> 4967.10] Look, -[4968.16 --> 4971.64] I believe this -[4971.64 --> 4973.06] and I believe -[4973.06 --> 4974.04] that you believe this -[4974.04 --> 4974.82] or at least you want -[4974.82 --> 4975.72] to believe this, -[4975.92 --> 4976.58] but I believe -[4976.58 --> 4977.56] that the gospel -[4977.56 --> 4978.78] has the power -[4978.78 --> 4979.82] to change lives. -[4979.82 --> 4981.22] that the gospel -[4981.22 --> 4982.04] has the power -[4982.04 --> 4983.84] to transform people. -[4984.24 --> 4984.30] Right? -[4984.32 --> 4985.22] That murderers -[4985.22 --> 4986.32] can become missionaries -[4986.32 --> 4987.44] because we've seen it. -[4988.38 --> 4988.60] Right? -[4988.62 --> 4989.22] That addicts -[4989.22 --> 4989.90] can become saved -[4989.90 --> 4990.36] from addiction -[4990.36 --> 4991.36] because we've seen it. -[4992.26 --> 4992.48] Right? -[4992.50 --> 4993.18] That desires -[4993.18 --> 4994.44] can be transformed -[4994.44 --> 4995.90] because we've seen it. -[4996.06 --> 4996.74] We have seen -[4996.74 --> 4998.00] spiritually dead people -[4998.00 --> 4999.24] raised to newness -[4999.24 --> 4999.56] of life. -[4999.66 --> 5000.22] I believe -[5000.22 --> 5000.70] that God -[5000.70 --> 5001.46] can do that -[5001.46 --> 5002.94] and is still doing that -[5002.94 --> 5003.90] and will continue -[5003.90 --> 5004.58] to do that. -[5004.76 --> 5005.88] You better say amen. -[5007.42 --> 5008.36] Come on, guys. -[5008.36 --> 5011.96] This is that moment. -[5013.38 --> 5014.52] This is that moment. -[5015.90 --> 5016.86] Dead people -[5016.86 --> 5017.94] can be raised -[5017.94 --> 5018.78] to life. -[5019.06 --> 5019.86] God still -[5019.86 --> 5020.74] does that. -[5024.26 --> 5024.90] Christ -[5024.90 --> 5027.00] is the culmination -[5027.00 --> 5028.38] of the law -[5028.38 --> 5029.42] so that there might -[5029.42 --> 5030.38] be righteousness -[5030.38 --> 5031.60] for everyone -[5031.60 --> 5033.44] who believes. -[5035.76 --> 5036.84] That's the goal. -[5036.84 --> 5041.20] and what culture -[5041.20 --> 5042.48] tries to do -[5042.48 --> 5043.42] with political -[5043.42 --> 5044.28] correctness -[5044.28 --> 5045.84] or niceness. -[5047.14 --> 5047.24] Right? -[5047.62 --> 5048.74] What the left -[5048.74 --> 5049.60] tries to do -[5049.60 --> 5050.44] with wokeness -[5050.44 --> 5051.28] and what the right -[5051.28 --> 5052.02] tries to do -[5052.02 --> 5052.84] with legalism. -[5053.14 --> 5053.88] Now hear me very clearly. -[5053.96 --> 5054.56] I'm cutting right down -[5054.56 --> 5055.32] the middle on this one. -[5056.06 --> 5057.10] What progressives -[5057.10 --> 5057.60] try to do -[5057.60 --> 5058.18] with tolerance -[5058.18 --> 5059.18] and what conservatives -[5059.18 --> 5059.72] try to do -[5059.72 --> 5060.50] with legislation. -[5062.50 --> 5062.62] Right? -[5062.68 --> 5063.88] When each one -[5063.88 --> 5064.68] of these people -[5064.68 --> 5065.66] and these perspectives -[5065.66 --> 5067.24] say something like -[5067.24 --> 5068.12] if we all just -[5068.12 --> 5068.98] did it this way -[5068.98 --> 5070.08] life and the world -[5070.08 --> 5071.08] would be good. -[5071.54 --> 5072.58] All of that -[5072.58 --> 5073.70] is a substitute -[5073.70 --> 5075.12] for what only Christ -[5075.12 --> 5075.68] can give. -[5077.88 --> 5078.44] Righteousness -[5078.44 --> 5080.26] for everyone -[5080.26 --> 5081.80] who believes. -[5081.80 --> 5085.38] and look -[5085.38 --> 5089.76] I'm mindful -[5089.76 --> 5090.28] of our time -[5090.28 --> 5092.28] but this is -[5092.28 --> 5093.22] magnificence -[5093.22 --> 5094.26] and so I'm going -[5094.26 --> 5095.00] to read it all again -[5095.00 --> 5096.86] and hear it. -[5097.18 --> 5097.74] Hear it. -[5099.22 --> 5099.74] Moses -[5099.74 --> 5101.06] verse 5 -[5101.06 --> 5102.80] writes about this -[5102.80 --> 5103.66] about this -[5103.66 --> 5104.46] writes this -[5104.46 --> 5105.30] about the righteousness -[5105.30 --> 5106.92] that is by the law. -[5107.48 --> 5107.94] The person -[5107.94 --> 5108.94] who does these things -[5108.94 --> 5109.60] will live -[5109.60 --> 5110.30] by them -[5110.30 --> 5112.04] but the righteousness -[5112.04 --> 5113.48] that is by faith -[5113.48 --> 5114.08] says -[5114.08 --> 5115.20] do not say -[5115.20 --> 5115.78] in your heart -[5115.78 --> 5116.46] who will ascend -[5116.46 --> 5116.96] into heaven -[5116.96 --> 5117.58] that is to bring -[5117.58 --> 5118.14] Christ down -[5118.14 --> 5119.18] or who will descend -[5119.18 --> 5119.74] into the deep -[5119.74 --> 5120.26] that is to bring -[5120.26 --> 5121.20] Christ up from the dead -[5121.20 --> 5122.96] but what does it say? -[5124.04 --> 5124.88] So the righteousness -[5124.88 --> 5125.90] that is by faith -[5125.90 --> 5126.54] says -[5126.54 --> 5128.72] the word is near you -[5128.72 --> 5129.98] it is in your mouth -[5129.98 --> 5130.94] and in your heart. -[5131.40 --> 5132.58] That is the message -[5132.58 --> 5133.46] concerning faith -[5133.46 --> 5134.20] that we proclaim. -[5134.84 --> 5135.68] If you declare -[5135.68 --> 5136.42] with your mouth -[5136.42 --> 5137.46] Jesus is Lord -[5137.46 --> 5138.88] and believe in your heart -[5138.88 --> 5139.84] that God raised him -[5139.84 --> 5140.42] from the dead -[5140.42 --> 5142.36] you will be saved. -[5143.88 --> 5145.06] For it is with your heart -[5145.06 --> 5145.76] that you believe -[5145.76 --> 5146.56] and are justified -[5146.56 --> 5147.80] and it is with your mouth -[5147.80 --> 5148.76] that you profess -[5148.76 --> 5149.40] your faith -[5149.40 --> 5150.42] and are saved. -[5150.62 --> 5151.72] As scripture says -[5151.72 --> 5153.16] anyone who believes -[5153.16 --> 5153.66] in him -[5153.66 --> 5155.16] will never be put -[5155.16 --> 5155.78] to shame -[5155.78 --> 5157.54] for there is no difference -[5157.54 --> 5158.26] between Jew -[5158.26 --> 5159.14] and Gentile -[5159.14 --> 5160.46] the same Lord -[5160.46 --> 5161.72] is Lord of all -[5161.72 --> 5162.92] and richly blesses -[5162.92 --> 5164.26] all who call on him -[5164.26 --> 5165.60] for everyone -[5165.60 --> 5167.12] who calls on the name -[5167.12 --> 5168.18] of the Lord -[5168.18 --> 5170.88] will be saved. -[5176.32 --> 5179.50] The heart of God. -[5181.68 --> 5182.92] But did you hear it? -[5185.42 --> 5187.38] Regeneration precedes faith. -[5187.48 --> 5188.12] In order for you -[5188.12 --> 5188.82] to have faith -[5188.82 --> 5189.44] to believe -[5189.44 --> 5190.38] you must be born -[5190.38 --> 5192.02] of faith. -[5192.22 --> 5192.86] And so -[5192.86 --> 5194.30] what do you do with that? -[5194.30 --> 5196.06] What is our responsibility -[5196.06 --> 5197.02] as we see -[5197.02 --> 5197.98] what God has done -[5197.98 --> 5198.38] Christ -[5198.38 --> 5199.10] the culmination -[5199.10 --> 5199.58] of the law -[5199.58 --> 5200.18] so that there might -[5200.18 --> 5200.72] be righteousness -[5200.72 --> 5201.76] for everyone -[5201.76 --> 5202.60] who believes. -[5202.72 --> 5203.56] What is your -[5203.56 --> 5204.24] responsibility -[5204.24 --> 5205.16] now? -[5206.76 --> 5207.80] Verse 9 says -[5207.80 --> 5208.78] if you declare -[5208.78 --> 5210.48] right -[5210.48 --> 5211.86] verse 9 continues -[5211.86 --> 5212.78] and believe -[5212.78 --> 5213.84] or verse 10 -[5213.84 --> 5214.66] for it is with your heart -[5214.66 --> 5215.42] that you believe -[5215.42 --> 5216.74] and it is with your mouth -[5216.74 --> 5218.06] that you profess. -[5219.06 --> 5219.18] Right -[5219.18 --> 5219.80] declare -[5219.80 --> 5221.36] believe -[5221.36 --> 5222.40] profess -[5222.40 --> 5223.18] right -[5223.18 --> 5224.20] verse 12 -[5224.20 --> 5226.58] call on the name -[5226.58 --> 5227.76] of -[5227.76 --> 5229.04] the Lord. -[5230.68 --> 5231.76] These are the acts -[5231.76 --> 5232.34] of faith -[5232.34 --> 5233.48] that you're invited -[5233.48 --> 5233.90] to do -[5233.90 --> 5234.94] and to participate in -[5234.94 --> 5235.24] right -[5235.24 --> 5235.80] to declare -[5235.80 --> 5236.52] and to believe -[5236.52 --> 5237.14] and to profess -[5237.14 --> 5237.82] and to call -[5237.82 --> 5238.42] on the name -[5238.42 --> 5239.16] of the Lord. -[5239.54 --> 5240.02] These -[5240.02 --> 5240.94] are the acts -[5240.94 --> 5242.14] of response -[5242.14 --> 5243.50] to regeneration -[5243.50 --> 5244.22] right -[5244.22 --> 5244.90] you're declaring -[5244.90 --> 5245.62] you're believing -[5245.62 --> 5246.44] you're professing -[5246.44 --> 5247.02] you're calling -[5247.02 --> 5248.04] on the name -[5248.04 --> 5248.84] of the Lord -[5248.84 --> 5250.62] doesn't save -[5250.62 --> 5251.06] you -[5251.06 --> 5252.26] you do them -[5252.26 --> 5253.44] because you have -[5253.44 --> 5254.14] been saved -[5254.14 --> 5254.74] by the mercy -[5254.74 --> 5255.30] of God -[5255.30 --> 5256.24] you do them -[5256.24 --> 5256.76] because you have -[5256.76 --> 5257.36] received -[5257.36 --> 5259.16] his mercy. -[5260.82 --> 5260.94] Now -[5260.94 --> 5262.36] I know where we're at -[5262.36 --> 5263.36] but just one more -[5263.36 --> 5264.18] one more please -[5264.18 --> 5264.96] one more nerd -[5264.96 --> 5265.38] moment -[5265.38 --> 5266.34] with me. -[5267.44 --> 5268.36] Verse 9 and 10 -[5268.36 --> 5268.94] look at them -[5268.94 --> 5269.90] in your mind -[5269.90 --> 5270.76] verse 9 and 10 -[5270.76 --> 5272.36] there are two -[5272.36 --> 5274.16] super imposed -[5274.16 --> 5275.42] orders -[5275.42 --> 5277.16] on each other -[5277.16 --> 5279.24] but you can't -[5279.24 --> 5279.94] conflate them -[5279.94 --> 5280.54] right -[5280.54 --> 5281.06] there is the -[5281.06 --> 5282.26] logical order -[5282.26 --> 5283.18] of the decree -[5283.18 --> 5284.06] of God -[5284.06 --> 5285.18] which happens -[5285.18 --> 5285.98] simultaneously -[5285.98 --> 5287.12] and which was -[5287.12 --> 5288.02] issued in eternity -[5288.02 --> 5288.68] past -[5288.68 --> 5289.48] in the mind -[5289.48 --> 5289.98] of God -[5289.98 --> 5291.22] and there's -[5291.22 --> 5292.14] the historical -[5292.14 --> 5293.68] chronological order -[5293.68 --> 5295.02] of that decree -[5295.02 --> 5296.04] being worked out -[5296.04 --> 5296.64] in history. -[5297.76 --> 5299.12] Both are true -[5299.12 --> 5301.22] without the first -[5301.22 --> 5301.94] the second -[5301.94 --> 5302.52] wouldn't or -[5302.52 --> 5303.20] couldn't occur -[5303.20 --> 5304.90] but if you are -[5304.90 --> 5305.80] doing the second -[5305.80 --> 5306.50] that is if you are -[5306.50 --> 5307.74] declaring and professing -[5307.74 --> 5308.20] and believing -[5308.20 --> 5308.92] and calling on the -[5308.92 --> 5309.42] name of the Lord -[5309.42 --> 5310.92] then the first -[5310.92 --> 5311.72] has occurred -[5311.72 --> 5315.38] and so I'll say it again -[5315.38 --> 5316.86] declare -[5316.86 --> 5317.66] believe -[5317.66 --> 5318.20] profess -[5318.20 --> 5319.32] call on the name -[5319.32 --> 5319.74] of the Lord -[5319.74 --> 5320.60] and do it -[5320.60 --> 5321.86] with confidence -[5321.86 --> 5322.72] because -[5322.72 --> 5324.44] there is no difference -[5324.44 --> 5325.04] between Jew -[5325.04 --> 5325.68] and Gentile -[5325.68 --> 5326.52] that means we all -[5326.52 --> 5327.26] are up in here -[5327.26 --> 5328.24] receiving the mercy -[5328.24 --> 5328.78] of God -[5328.78 --> 5329.84] and the same -[5329.84 --> 5330.76] Lord is Lord -[5330.76 --> 5331.20] of all -[5331.20 --> 5331.92] and richly -[5331.92 --> 5332.80] blesses all -[5332.80 --> 5333.82] who call on him -[5333.82 --> 5334.96] for whoever -[5334.96 --> 5335.86] or everyone -[5335.86 --> 5336.60] who calls -[5336.60 --> 5337.20] on the name -[5337.20 --> 5338.10] of the Lord -[5338.10 --> 5340.32] will be saved -[5340.32 --> 5341.82] that is your guarantee -[5341.82 --> 5345.68] and so I ask -[5345.68 --> 5348.16] some of you might call this -[5348.16 --> 5348.94] an altar call moment -[5348.94 --> 5349.76] but so I ask -[5349.76 --> 5351.70] are you doing these things -[5351.70 --> 5354.64] and if not -[5354.64 --> 5357.22] what might that mean -[5357.22 --> 5360.68] because it might mean -[5360.68 --> 5361.90] that you have -[5361.90 --> 5362.86] substituted -[5362.86 --> 5363.64] a vaguely -[5363.64 --> 5365.00] Christian morality -[5365.00 --> 5365.86] in place -[5365.86 --> 5366.52] of a spirit -[5366.52 --> 5367.60] filled life -[5367.60 --> 5369.44] it might mean -[5369.44 --> 5370.12] that you are making -[5370.12 --> 5370.92] the same mistake -[5370.92 --> 5371.42] as Israel -[5371.42 --> 5372.34] and missing -[5372.34 --> 5373.16] Jesus -[5373.16 --> 5374.78] it might mean -[5374.78 --> 5375.68] that you are missing -[5375.68 --> 5376.58] on the full -[5376.58 --> 5377.90] life transforming -[5377.90 --> 5378.52] power -[5378.52 --> 5379.80] of the Holy Spirit -[5379.80 --> 5380.88] and of the gospel -[5380.88 --> 5381.82] and that you are -[5381.82 --> 5382.76] settling for -[5382.76 --> 5383.50] niceness -[5383.50 --> 5384.22] or for -[5384.22 --> 5385.06] legalism -[5385.06 --> 5387.92] but if you are -[5387.92 --> 5388.92] doing these things -[5388.92 --> 5391.26] if you do see this -[5391.26 --> 5392.10] in your life -[5392.10 --> 5395.28] it might mean -[5395.28 --> 5396.62] and I pray that it does -[5396.62 --> 5397.90] that regeneration -[5397.90 --> 5399.02] has occurred -[5399.02 --> 5400.08] it might mean -[5400.08 --> 5400.72] that you can -[5400.72 --> 5401.76] actually have -[5401.76 --> 5402.56] real -[5402.56 --> 5404.30] world changing -[5404.30 --> 5405.18] confidence -[5405.18 --> 5405.92] that anyone -[5405.92 --> 5406.70] who believes in him -[5406.70 --> 5407.72] will never be put to shame -[5407.72 --> 5409.04] that's our confidence -[5409.04 --> 5410.32] that everyone -[5410.32 --> 5411.22] who calls on the name -[5411.22 --> 5411.74] of the Lord -[5411.74 --> 5412.78] will be saved -[5412.78 --> 5415.92] that is the gospel -[5415.92 --> 5416.60] truth -[5416.60 --> 5418.80] precisely because -[5418.80 --> 5419.78] regeneration -[5419.78 --> 5421.54] precedes faith -[5421.54 --> 5423.02] and I will end -[5423.02 --> 5423.78] here -[5423.78 --> 5426.46] I believe -[5426.46 --> 5428.58] that what the church -[5428.58 --> 5429.94] needs to grow -[5429.94 --> 5430.54] young -[5430.54 --> 5432.36] what the church -[5432.36 --> 5432.98] needs -[5432.98 --> 5434.54] to see -[5434.54 --> 5435.50] a new generation -[5435.50 --> 5435.98] of people -[5435.98 --> 5436.72] rise up -[5436.72 --> 5437.38] in faith -[5437.38 --> 5441.42] is to live -[5441.42 --> 5443.92] regenerate -[5443.92 --> 5445.08] lives -[5445.08 --> 5447.66] and to show -[5447.66 --> 5449.68] everyone around you -[5449.68 --> 5451.58] that God -[5451.58 --> 5452.34] has raised -[5452.34 --> 5452.92] you -[5452.92 --> 5454.08] from -[5454.08 --> 5455.20] death -[5455.20 --> 5457.08] that he has -[5457.08 --> 5457.76] given you -[5457.76 --> 5458.64] life -[5458.64 --> 5459.50] and that -[5459.50 --> 5460.72] my friends -[5460.72 --> 5461.86] changes -[5461.86 --> 5463.30] everything -[5463.30 --> 5465.28] and that -[5465.28 --> 5466.68] will change -[5466.68 --> 5467.62] not only the church -[5467.62 --> 5468.78] and this church -[5468.78 --> 5470.10] but the world -[5470.10 --> 5471.14] amen -[5471.14 --> 5473.20] let's pray together -[5473.20 --> 5479.36] holy God -[5479.36 --> 5482.70] humbly -[5482.70 --> 5485.26] we confess -[5485.26 --> 5486.84] that we have -[5486.84 --> 5487.76] substituted -[5487.76 --> 5489.06] vague -[5489.06 --> 5489.96] moralities -[5489.96 --> 5490.84] for the gospel -[5490.84 --> 5492.96] that we have -[5492.96 --> 5493.70] substituted -[5493.70 --> 5494.26] rules -[5494.26 --> 5494.86] for the freedom -[5494.86 --> 5495.48] of Christ -[5495.48 --> 5497.62] that we have -[5497.62 --> 5499.04] allowed -[5499.04 --> 5499.68] ourselves -[5499.68 --> 5500.36] to believe -[5500.36 --> 5501.02] that we -[5501.02 --> 5501.92] could balance -[5501.92 --> 5502.64] the ledger -[5502.64 --> 5503.26] of obedience -[5503.26 --> 5504.34] to disobedience -[5504.34 --> 5507.60] and so -[5507.60 --> 5509.36] whether for the -[5509.36 --> 5510.16] first time -[5510.16 --> 5511.42] or whether -[5511.42 --> 5512.16] this has been -[5512.16 --> 5512.88] our journey -[5512.88 --> 5513.44] of faith -[5513.44 --> 5514.44] and sanctification -[5514.44 --> 5515.76] transform -[5515.76 --> 5516.64] us -[5516.64 --> 5517.56] by the power -[5517.56 --> 5518.32] of your gospel -[5518.32 --> 5520.14] move in your spirit -[5520.14 --> 5521.26] so that we -[5521.26 --> 5522.18] might see -[5522.18 --> 5523.34] more clearly -[5523.34 --> 5524.16] what it means -[5524.16 --> 5524.94] to be -[5524.94 --> 5525.96] regenerated -[5525.96 --> 5526.88] to be born again -[5526.88 --> 5527.98] to be alive -[5527.98 --> 5529.52] only by your power -[5529.52 --> 5530.76] and to live -[5530.76 --> 5532.14] that power -[5532.14 --> 5532.92] in the world -[5532.92 --> 5533.74] in meaningful -[5533.74 --> 5535.14] and profound -[5535.14 --> 5536.38] ways -[5536.38 --> 5538.96] oh God -[5538.96 --> 5540.30] use us -[5540.30 --> 5541.56] to transform -[5541.56 --> 5542.10] the world -[5542.10 --> 5542.36] and -[5542.36 --> 5542.78] and -[5542.78 --> 5544.32] I pray -[5544.32 --> 5546.32] that here -[5546.32 --> 5546.84] at Emmanuel -[5546.84 --> 5548.04] that would start -[5548.04 --> 5549.02] with -[5549.02 --> 5550.00] prayer -[5550.00 --> 5552.80] and so we pray -[5552.80 --> 5554.08] a commitment -[5554.08 --> 5555.46] to pray -[5555.46 --> 5557.42] and a commitment -[5557.42 --> 5558.00] to go -[5558.00 --> 5558.98] in prayer -[5558.98 --> 5559.98] with you -[5559.98 --> 5562.46] hear our prayer -[5562.46 --> 5563.08] Lord Jesus -[5563.08 --> 5564.26] and use them -[5564.26 --> 5564.98] to act -[5564.98 --> 5566.72] for your purposes -[5566.72 --> 5568.16] in election -[5568.16 --> 5569.50] and fill us -[5569.50 --> 5570.60] with the confidence -[5570.60 --> 5571.64] that everyone -[5571.64 --> 5572.40] who calls -[5572.40 --> 5572.98] on the name -[5572.98 --> 5573.64] of the Lord -[5573.64 --> 5575.80] will be saved -[5575.80 --> 5577.20] in Jesus Christ -[5577.20 --> 5577.68] we pray -[5577.68 --> 5578.76] amen -[5578.76 --> 5603.14] what is our hope -[5603.14 --> 5605.56] in life and death -[5605.56 --> 5606.64] Christ -[5606.64 --> 5607.20] Christ alone -[5607.20 --> 5608.24] Christ alone -[5608.24 --> 5610.12] Christ alone -[5610.12 --> 5611.88] what is our -[5611.88 --> 5614.48] only confidence -[5614.48 --> 5617.92] that our souls -[5617.92 --> 5620.02] to him belong -[5620.02 --> 5622.92] who holds our days -[5622.92 --> 5625.00] within his hand -[5625.00 --> 5626.12] what comes -[5626.12 --> 5626.70] upon -[5626.70 --> 5629.12] from his command -[5629.12 --> 5631.24] and what will -[5631.24 --> 5632.88] keep us -[5632.88 --> 5634.52] to the end -[5634.52 --> 5637.26] the love of Christ -[5637.26 --> 5640.62] in which we stand -[5640.62 --> 5643.78] O sing -[5643.78 --> 5646.26] hallelujah -[5646.26 --> 5648.48] our hope's -[5648.48 --> 5651.04] praise eternal -[5651.04 --> 5655.42] oh sing hallelujah -[5655.42 --> 5657.80] now and heavenly -[5657.80 --> 5659.62] confess -[5659.62 --> 5661.50] Christ our hope -[5661.50 --> 5662.36] in life -[5662.36 --> 5664.04] and death -[5664.04 --> 5671.56] the truth -[5671.56 --> 5673.28] can calm -[5673.28 --> 5675.68] the troubled soul -[5675.68 --> 5678.36] God is good -[5678.36 --> 5680.16] God is good -[5680.16 --> 5682.94] where is his grace -[5682.94 --> 5684.10] and goodness -[5684.10 --> 5685.16] though -[5685.16 --> 5687.64] in our great -[5687.64 --> 5689.82] Redeemer's blood -[5689.82 --> 5692.46] who holds our faith -[5692.46 --> 5694.56] when fears arise -[5694.56 --> 5695.70] who stands -[5695.70 --> 5696.26] above -[5696.26 --> 5699.32] the stormy trial -[5699.32 --> 5700.56] who sends -[5700.56 --> 5702.14] the waves -[5702.14 --> 5703.58] that bring us -[5703.58 --> 5704.30] life -[5704.30 --> 5705.76] unto the -[5705.76 --> 5706.98] shoulder -[5706.98 --> 5708.42] of the -[5708.42 --> 5710.88] Christ -[5710.88 --> 5712.52] Christ -[5712.52 --> 5713.36] O sing -[5713.36 --> 5716.04] hallelujah -[5716.04 --> 5718.14] our hope -[5718.14 --> 5718.36] springs -[5718.36 --> 5720.92] eternal -[5720.92 --> 5722.84] O sing -[5722.84 --> 5725.24] hallelujah -[5725.24 --> 5727.48] now and ever -[5727.48 --> 5729.52] we confess -[5729.52 --> 5731.48] Christ our hope -[5731.48 --> 5732.38] in life -[5732.38 --> 5733.84] and death -[5733.84 --> 5735.84] we confess -[5735.84 --> 5741.82] unto the -[5741.82 --> 5743.08] grave -[5743.08 --> 5744.10] what will -[5744.10 --> 5745.42] we see -[5745.42 --> 5746.62] Christ -[5746.62 --> 5748.32] he lives -[5748.32 --> 5749.02] Christ -[5749.02 --> 5750.20] he lives -[5750.20 --> 5751.26] and what -[5751.26 --> 5752.88] reward -[5752.88 --> 5753.28] will -[5753.28 --> 5754.02] heaven -[5754.02 --> 5755.26] bring -[5755.26 --> 5756.84] everlasting -[5756.84 --> 5758.82] life -[5758.82 --> 5759.76] within -[5759.76 --> 5760.52] there -[5760.52 --> 5761.32] we will -[5761.32 --> 5761.84] rise -[5761.84 --> 5762.60] rise -[5762.60 --> 5763.64] to meet -[5763.64 --> 5764.66] the Lord -[5764.66 --> 5765.78] and sin -[5765.78 --> 5767.32] and death -[5767.32 --> 5768.22] will be -[5768.22 --> 5768.84] restored -[5768.84 --> 5770.46] and we -[5770.46 --> 5772.08] will feast -[5772.08 --> 5773.22] in endless -[5773.22 --> 5774.08] joy -[5774.08 --> 5775.42] when Christ -[5775.42 --> 5776.60] is not -[5776.60 --> 5777.98] forever -[5777.98 --> 5781.04] more -[5781.04 --> 5783.02] O sing -[5783.02 --> 5785.72] hallelujah -[5785.72 --> 5787.78] our hope -[5787.78 --> 5789.06] springs -[5789.06 --> 5790.30] eternal -[5790.30 --> 5792.26] oh sing -[5792.26 --> 5794.78] hallelujah -[5794.78 --> 5796.94] now and ever -[5796.94 --> 5798.82] we confess -[5798.82 --> 5800.74] Christ our hope -[5800.74 --> 5801.58] in life -[5801.58 --> 5802.92] and death -[5802.92 --> 5804.56] oh sing -[5804.56 --> 5807.06] hallelujah -[5807.06 --> 5809.18] our hope -[5809.18 --> 5810.42] springs -[5810.42 --> 5811.56] eternal -[5811.56 --> 5813.52] oh sing -[5813.52 --> 5816.02] hallelujah -[5816.02 --> 5818.14] now and ever -[5818.14 --> 5820.06] we confess -[5820.06 --> 5821.96] Christ our hope -[5821.96 --> 5822.80] in life -[5822.80 --> 5824.02] and death -[5824.02 --> 5826.06] now and ever -[5826.06 --> 5828.02] we confess -[5828.02 --> 5829.96] Christ our hope -[5829.96 --> 5830.92] in life -[5830.92 --> 5832.64] and death -[5832.64 --> 5845.04] as you go -[5845.04 --> 5845.72] this week -[5845.72 --> 5846.66] go with -[5846.66 --> 5847.86] two quick -[5847.86 --> 5848.44] reminders -[5848.44 --> 5848.92] one -[5848.92 --> 5851.16] on -[5851.16 --> 5851.86] Tuesday -[5851.86 --> 5853.74] you will -[5853.74 --> 5854.18] get -[5854.18 --> 5855.88] in your -[5855.88 --> 5857.18] midweek -[5857.18 --> 5857.60] memos -[5857.60 --> 5858.10] for those of you -[5858.10 --> 5858.64] who signed up -[5858.64 --> 5858.98] for that -[5858.98 --> 5859.56] if you haven't -[5859.56 --> 5859.94] signed up -[5859.94 --> 5860.44] to receive -[5860.44 --> 5861.10] the email -[5861.10 --> 5861.92] midweek memo -[5861.92 --> 5863.04] please contact -[5863.04 --> 5863.48] the office -[5863.48 --> 5863.96] they'll get it -[5863.96 --> 5864.20] to you -[5864.20 --> 5864.60] but on -[5864.60 --> 5864.88] Tuesday -[5864.88 --> 5865.38] you will -[5865.38 --> 5865.84] receive -[5865.84 --> 5867.04] an invitation -[5867.04 --> 5868.56] to a night -[5868.56 --> 5869.22] of prayer -[5869.22 --> 5870.40] that will happen -[5870.40 --> 5870.96] sometime in the -[5870.96 --> 5871.56] next two weeks -[5871.56 --> 5872.78] still finalizing -[5872.78 --> 5873.46] the last details -[5873.46 --> 5874.14] because there's a lot -[5874.14 --> 5875.02] going on right now -[5875.02 --> 5876.44] but we want to come -[5876.44 --> 5877.20] together and just pray -[5877.20 --> 5878.68] and live into -[5878.68 --> 5879.74] the response -[5879.74 --> 5880.30] of what we were -[5880.30 --> 5880.90] called to this -[5880.90 --> 5881.14] morning -[5881.14 --> 5881.88] already -[5881.88 --> 5882.58] and so on -[5882.58 --> 5882.82] Tuesday -[5882.82 --> 5883.84] you will get -[5883.84 --> 5884.14] that -[5884.14 --> 5885.22] part of my -[5885.22 --> 5885.70] saying that -[5885.70 --> 5886.54] now is -[5886.54 --> 5887.50] so that Maria -[5887.50 --> 5887.98] will hear it -[5887.98 --> 5888.38] and hold me -[5888.38 --> 5888.74] accountable -[5888.74 --> 5889.68] when we're in -[5889.68 --> 5890.00] the office -[5890.00 --> 5890.54] together on -[5890.54 --> 5890.82] Tuesday -[5890.82 --> 5892.54] as well -[5892.54 --> 5893.14] following -[5893.14 --> 5894.52] our worship -[5894.52 --> 5895.00] together -[5895.00 --> 5895.90] there will be -[5895.90 --> 5896.36] some people -[5896.36 --> 5896.88] up here -[5896.88 --> 5897.58] who would love -[5897.58 --> 5898.26] to pray with you -[5898.26 --> 5898.84] they will have -[5898.84 --> 5899.16] a yellow -[5899.16 --> 5899.82] name tag -[5899.82 --> 5903.56] but please -[5903.56 --> 5905.00] if you don't -[5905.00 --> 5905.80] come up to the -[5905.80 --> 5906.62] front to pray -[5906.62 --> 5907.56] with this person -[5907.56 --> 5908.52] maybe turn to -[5908.52 --> 5909.18] the person beside -[5909.18 --> 5909.84] you before you -[5909.84 --> 5910.44] go and get your -[5910.44 --> 5911.24] coffee or in the -[5911.24 --> 5911.76] fellowship hall -[5911.76 --> 5912.58] gather in a group -[5912.58 --> 5913.66] just pray with -[5913.66 --> 5914.58] for each other -[5914.58 --> 5916.92] take that -[5916.92 --> 5917.32] opportunity -[5917.32 --> 5918.54] as you need it -[5918.54 --> 5919.58] and like I said -[5919.58 --> 5920.22] I will be at -[5920.22 --> 5920.94] the connect -[5920.94 --> 5921.38] booth at the -[5921.38 --> 5921.92] back if you'd -[5921.92 --> 5922.70] like to chat -[5922.70 --> 5923.48] with me -[5923.48 --> 5925.14] as you go -[5925.14 --> 5926.08] into this -[5926.08 --> 5926.60] week -[5926.60 --> 5927.36] know that -[5927.36 --> 5928.00] God himself -[5928.00 --> 5929.24] goes with you -[5929.24 --> 5929.82] and that we -[5929.82 --> 5930.94] go together -[5930.94 --> 5931.98] in the power -[5931.98 --> 5933.08] of the Holy -[5933.08 --> 5933.46] Spirit -[5933.46 --> 5934.54] and so go -[5934.54 --> 5935.80] with God's -[5935.80 --> 5936.38] blessing -[5936.38 --> 5938.62] God go -[5938.62 --> 5939.56] before you -[5939.56 --> 5940.60] to lead you -[5940.60 --> 5941.44] God go -[5941.44 --> 5942.14] behind you -[5942.14 --> 5943.20] to protect you -[5943.20 --> 5943.80] God go -[5943.80 --> 5944.58] beneath you -[5944.58 --> 5945.70] to support you -[5945.70 --> 5946.64] God go -[5946.64 --> 5947.64] beside you -[5947.64 --> 5948.46] to befriend -[5948.46 --> 5948.78] you -[5948.78 --> 5949.70] do not -[5949.70 --> 5951.18] be afraid -[5951.18 --> 5952.22] let the -[5952.22 --> 5952.94] blessing of God -[5952.94 --> 5953.60] come upon you -[5953.60 --> 5954.54] today do not -[5954.54 --> 5955.58] be afraid -[5955.58 --> 5956.74] but go -[5956.74 --> 5958.00] in peace -[5958.00 --> 5958.98] to love -[5958.98 --> 5959.94] and serve -[5959.94 --> 5960.66] the Lord -[5960.66 --> 5962.18] Amen -[5962.18 --> 5973.84] salvation -[5973.84 --> 5986.10] belong to -[5986.10 --> 5987.32] salvation -[5987.32 --> 5991.40] belongs to our God -[5991.40 --> 5996.12] who sits upon the throne. -[5998.24 --> 6002.56] And unto the Lamb -[6002.56 --> 6005.34] praise and glory, -[6005.34 --> 6008.10] wisdom and thanks, -[6008.66 --> 6013.56] honor and power and strength. -[6013.56 --> 6019.28] Be to our God forever and ever. -[6019.28 --> 6024.84] Be to our God forever and ever. -[6025.06 --> 6030.36] Be to our God forever and ever. -[6030.36 --> 6031.50] Amen. -[6035.56 --> 6038.16] And we, the redeemed, -[6038.30 --> 6041.06] shall be strong -[6041.06 --> 6046.52] in purpose and unity. -[6048.52 --> 6052.56] Declare it all loud. -[6053.02 --> 6055.22] Praise and glory, -[6055.84 --> 6057.98] wisdom and thanks, -[6057.98 --> 6062.98] honor and power and strength. -[6064.12 --> 6069.14] Be to our God forever and ever. -[6069.14 --> 6074.80] Be to our God forever and ever. -[6074.80 --> 6080.38] Be to our God forever and ever. -[6080.60 --> 6081.34] Amen. -[6081.34 --> 6091.00] Be to our God forever and ever. -[6091.00 --> 6091.34] Amen. -[6091.34 --> 6097.38] Be to our God forever and ever. -[6097.38 --> 6103.18] Be to our God forever and ever. -[6103.18 --> 6104.34] Amen. -[6104.34 --> 6114.00] Be to our God forever and ever. -[6114.00 --> 6114.88] Amen. -[6115.80 --> 6119.76] Be to our God forever and ever. -[6119.80 --> 6125.32] Be to our God forever and ever. -[6125.32 --> 6126.28] Amen. -[6126.28 --> 6126.80] Amen. -[6126.80 --> 6134.28] Thank you. -[6134.28 --> 6137.08] CEOs and doås -[6137.08 --> 6142.50] pour into lourdes -[6142.50 --> 6145.02] Let's know diff --git a/Sunday Worship, August 10, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, August 10, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 1119b073507e2c5e0614ba30a97c727663dfca22..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, August 10, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,106 +0,0 @@ -• Praise and worship of God -• Confession of Jesus' name as mighty and supreme -• Acknowledgment of God's forgiveness and redemption -• Singing a song of praise to the land -• Declaration of God's holiness and majesty -• Discussion of Hebrews 13:16 and its meaning -• Reflection on how to make doing good and sharing with others a lifestyle -• Prayer for renewal and trust in God -• Song about building life upon God's love and not being shaken -• Worship music with lyrics about God's greatness and wonder -• Worship service led by Pearl from Langley Emanuel -• Offering taken for the church budget and ministries -• Description of the CRC BC Refugee Chaplain Ministry and its mission to support immigrants and visitors in Canada -• Verse "Do not forget to do good and share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased" -• Musical worship and singing -• Testimony about the gift of grace through Jesus Christ -• Lyrics referencing faith, hope, and redemption through Jesus -• Mention of a Christian song or hymn -• Invitation for children to join in the blessing -• Conversation with children about summer activities -• Prayer for the church family and attendees -• Reference to the e-bulletin and instructions on how to receive it -• Reading from Psalm 86 during the prayer -• Praise and thanksgiving to God -• Celebrations of weddings and thanking God for new marriages -• Praying for blessings on newlyweds and their future together -• Expressing gratitude for celebrations and time with loved ones -• Offering prayers in times of distress, grief, and hardship -• Asking God to save and help those struggling with difficult circumstances -• Seeking comfort and guidance for those mourning the loss of a loved one -• Praying for healing, hope, and strength for individuals facing challenges, including cancer and illness. -• Prayers for new babies and parents -• Prayers for pregnant women and those struggling to become pregnant -• Prayers for unique family situations -• Story about two elementary school students arguing over Pokémon cards, highlighting the theme of confidence vs. faith -• Request to God to descend on Kevin and give him spirit power to bring a message -• Request to God to help and comfort through His word -• Discussion of a personal anecdote about humility and forgiveness -• Reading and explanation of Matthew chapter 18, verses 1-5 -• Discussion of the importance of becoming like little children in order to enter the kingdom of heaven -• Reading and explanation of Matthew chapter 18, verse 21 (the parable of forgiving 77 times) -• Explanation of a parable about a king settling accounts with his servants, illustrating forgiveness. -• The parable of the servant who is forgiven but refuses to forgive others -• The contrast between humility and pride in the kingdom of God -• Jesus' teaching on forgiveness as a key aspect of life in the kingdom -• A story about the disciples arguing over status in the kingdom -• Jesus' use of a child to illustrate the humility required for greatness in the kingdom -• The concept of being childlike vs childish -• Dependence on God or others as a starting point for greatness -• Jesus' call to humility and trust in dependence, not self-sufficiency -• The difference between being childlike and naive -• The importance of acknowledging one's limitations and trusting God's care -• The contrast between humility and the world's message of self-reliance and self-congratulation -• The importance of humility and dependence on God -• Definition of true greatness according to Jesus (starts with surrender, not self-elevation) -• C.S. Lewis' quote on humility (thinking of oneself less, not thinking less of oneself) -• Connection between humility and forgiveness in the kingdom of God -• Forgiveness is not about keeping score or a specific number, but living out grace -• Parable of the servant who owes 10,000 talents to a king, illustrating Jesus' teaching on unfettered forgiveness -• The parable of the unforgiving servant is discussed, where a servant who owes an immeasurable debt to his king is forgiven and released from debt. -• The servant then refuses to forgive another who owes him a small amount, leading to severe consequences for himself. -• This story is used as an analogy for humanity's relationship with God, where our debt of sin is so great that it cannot be repaid. -• However, just like the king in the parable, Jesus took on this debt and paid it in full through his life, death, and resurrection. -• This message emphasizes the importance of showing mercy and forgiveness to others, as we have been shown by God. -• The speaker reflects on not forgiving others, and how it relates to being forgiven by God -• The importance of forgiveness in Christian life, and its connection to sin and guilt -• The consequences of holding onto bitterness and grudges, and how they can control our lives -• Forgiveness is hard and takes effort, but is necessary for living out the forgiveness we've received from God -• The tendency to confuse justice with revenge and why this posture leads away from grace -• The pain and frustration caused by holding back forgiveness -• The importance of forgiveness as a response to God's immeasurable grace -• The example of Jesus' sacrifice in forgiving others -• The role of humility and sacrifice in true forgiveness -• The connection between forgiveness and the gospel life lived -• The consequences of unforgiveness and independence on one's relationship with God -• Characteristics of forgiveness and its sacrificial nature -• Story of Cory Ten Boom's encounter with an SS guard she forgave -• Definition of forgiveness as an act of the will, not an emotion -• Importance of depending on God for everything, including forgiveness -• Connection between humility and forgiveness, and extending grace to others -• Prayer and confession of sins -• Discussion on forgiveness and humility -• Invitation to receive the bread and juice as a symbol of God's grace -• Liturgy and prayer during the communion service -• Invitation to come forward to the table, regardless of faith or experience with the sacrament -• Instructions for passing the bread and juice around the table -• Instructions for communion service -• Serving the worship leaders, back of house staff, and elders in the first table -• Invitation to sing together -• Communion ritual with repetition of phrase "Body of Christ given for you" -• Instructions for those who cannot come forward -• Offer of prayer or meeting for prayer in lieu of communion -• Interactions between individuals and prayer in the foyer -• Praise and worship songs -• References to Jesus Christ as the King of kings and living hope -• Discussion of salvation through Jesus' name -• Alleluias and hallelujahs used repeatedly throughout the transcript -• Themes of redemption, resurrection, and victory over death -• Praise for God's glory, majesty, and power -• Reference to the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, Spirit) -• Lyrics from a worship song, praising God's love, goodness, and kindness -• The speaker is reflecting on their mortality and expressing a desire to continue praising God with their last breath. -• A worship song is sung, emphasizing the majesty and holiness of God. -• A blessing is given to the congregation, asking God to go before them, behind them, beneath them, and beside them. -• A prayer is offered for the congregation to receive God's blessing and protection as they journey through life. -• The speaker invokes the image of Jesus Christ as the Lion of Judah and the Lamb who was slain, emphasizing his power and reign over all nations. \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, August 10, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, August 10, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 29cc2a5c47bff82298ba54de2672a5db3c54a937..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, August 10, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1815 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 599.98] Thank you. -[600.00 --> 629.98] Thank you. -[630.00 --> 659.98] Thank you. -[660.00 --> 689.98] Thank you. -[690.00 --> 719.98] Thank you. -[720.00 --> 749.98] Thank you. -[750.00 --> 779.98] Thank you. -[780.00 --> 809.98] Thank you. -[810.00 --> 839.98] Thank you. -[840.00 --> 869.98] Thank you. -[870.00 --> 899.98] Thank you. -[900.00 --> 929.98] Thank you. -[930.00 --> 959.98] Thank you. -[960.00 --> 990.00] Good. -[990.00 --> 1019.98] Hey, someone. -[1019.98 --> 1049.96] Thank you. -[1049.98 --> 1079.98] Thank you. -[1079.98 --> 1109.98] Thank you. -[1109.98 --> 1139.98] Thank you. -[1139.98 --> 1169.96] Thank you. -[1169.98 --> 1171.38] the firstborn of the dead, -[1171.74 --> 1174.24] and the ruler of the kings of the earth. -[1174.46 --> 1177.02] And all of God's people said, Amen. -[1177.24 --> 1178.48] As God has greeted us this morning, -[1178.58 --> 1180.92] please take a moment to greet those around you. -[1199.98 --> 1229.96] Amen. -[1230.88 --> 1232.96] Through Jesus, therefore, -[1233.30 --> 1237.08] let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise, -[1237.80 --> 1241.58] the fruit of lips that openly profess his name. -[1242.50 --> 1246.82] And do not forget to do good and to share with others, -[1247.12 --> 1250.36] for with such sacrifices God is pleased. -[1251.60 --> 1254.64] Let's together openly confess the mighty name of Jesus, -[1255.10 --> 1256.44] the Lamb upon the throne. -[1257.14 --> 1258.88] Like the generations before us, -[1258.88 --> 1262.72] let us offer up a sacrifice of praise as we lift up his name. -[1262.72 --> 1267.72] ¶. -[1267.72 --> 1269.72] Amen. -[1297.72 --> 1299.72] Amen. -[1327.72 --> 1329.72] Amen. -[1357.72 --> 1359.72] Amen. -[1387.72 --> 1389.72] Amen. -[1417.72 --> 1419.72] Amen. -[1447.72 --> 1461.16] Your name is the highest, your name is the greatest, your name stands above it all. -[1461.16 --> 1472.16] All thrones and dominions, all powers and positions, your name stands above it all. -[1472.94 --> 1475.16] And the angels cry. -[1475.16 --> 1481.16] Holy, all the nations cry. -[1481.16 --> 1487.16] Holy, you are lifted high. -[1487.16 --> 1495.16] Holy, holy forever. -[1495.16 --> 1509.16] And if you've been forgiven, and if you've been redeemed, sing a song forever to the land. -[1509.16 --> 1521.16] And if you walk in freedom, and if you've been redeemed, sing a song forever to the land. -[1521.16 --> 1527.16] You sing a song forever to the land. -[1527.16 --> 1529.16] Holy, holy, holy. -[1529.16 --> 1539.16] And if you've been forgiven, and if you've been redeemed, sing a song forever to the land. -[1539.16 --> 1541.16] Holy, holy, holy. -[1541.16 --> 1543.16] Holy, holy forever. -[1543.16 --> 1545.16] Holy, holy forever. -[1545.16 --> 1547.16] Holy, holy forever. -[1547.16 --> 1551.16] Holy, holy forever. -[1551.16 --> 1553.16] Holy, holy, holy forever. -[1553.16 --> 1557.16] Holy, holy forever. -[1557.16 --> 1565.16] Holy, holy, holy forever. -[1565.16 --> 1568.16] Holy, holy, holy forever. -[1568.16 --> 1578.16] Holy, holy forever. -[1578.16 --> 1580.16] it's your name -[1580.16 --> 1582.16] it's the greatest -[1582.16 --> 1584.16] your name -[1584.16 --> 1586.16] stands above -[1586.16 --> 1588.16] them all -[1588.16 --> 1590.16] all thrones -[1590.16 --> 1592.16] and dominions -[1592.16 --> 1594.16] all power -[1594.16 --> 1596.16] that divisions -[1596.16 --> 1598.16] your name -[1598.16 --> 1600.16] stands above -[1600.16 --> 1602.16] them all -[1602.16 --> 1604.16] and the angels -[1604.16 --> 1606.16] cry -[1606.16 --> 1608.16] holy -[1608.16 --> 1610.16] you are lifted -[1610.16 --> 1612.16] high -[1612.16 --> 1614.16] holy -[1614.16 --> 1616.16] holy -[1616.16 --> 1618.16] forever -[1618.16 --> 1620.16] we -[1620.16 --> 1622.16] hear people sing -[1622.16 --> 1624.16] holy -[1624.16 --> 1626.16] to the -[1626.16 --> 1628.16] key of -[1628.16 --> 1630.16] me -[1630.16 --> 1632.16] holy -[1632.16 --> 1634.16] you will always be -[1634.16 --> 1636.16] holy -[1636.16 --> 1638.16] holy -[1638.16 --> 1640.16] holy -[1640.16 --> 1642.16] forever -[1642.16 --> 1644.16] you will always be -[1644.16 --> 1646.16] holy -[1646.16 --> 1648.16] holy -[1648.16 --> 1650.16] forever -[1650.16 --> 1652.16] forever -[1656.16 --> 1658.16] i invite you to be seated -[1658.16 --> 1660.16] we -[1660.16 --> 1662.16] we -[1662.16 --> 1664.16] started off this -[1664.16 --> 1666.16] morning in the end of the call to worship -[1666.16 --> 1668.16] reading -[1668.16 --> 1670.16] Hebrews 13 verse 16 and it says -[1670.16 --> 1674.16] do not forget to do good and to share with others -[1674.16 --> 1678.16] for with such sacrifices God is pleased -[1678.16 --> 1680.16] i think -[1680.16 --> 1682.16] i think for me anyway i can get pretty focused on my own life -[1682.16 --> 1684.16] my own needs -[1684.16 --> 1688.16] and i forget sometimes the things that please God like he's -[1688.16 --> 1692.16] saying here that those kind of sacrifices please him -[1692.16 --> 1694.16] and -[1694.16 --> 1698.16] and to do good and to share with others it just sounds so simple but -[1698.16 --> 1716.16] it can be hard to make that a lifestyle i can do it for a season but to make that a lifestyle is something that only i think the spirit of God living in your heart and renewing you daily helps you kind of keep that in your mind and in your heart and so i just want to offer a prayer this with power heads -[1716.16 --> 1728.16] father -[1728.16 --> 1734.16] will you continue to renew our hearts -[1734.16 --> 1738.16] and teach us to trust you -[1738.16 --> 1744.16] will you place your love in our hearts and help us to build our lives on your love -[1744.16 --> 1746.16] forgive us -[1746.16 --> 1748.16] forgive us when we miss your promptings -[1748.16 --> 1752.16] when we choose our comforts over helping others -[1752.16 --> 1756.16] and lord may you jesus -[1756.16 --> 1758.16] be the center of our hearts and in our lives -[1758.16 --> 1760.16] and we ask this in your name -[1760.16 --> 1762.16] amen -[1764.16 --> 1766.16] rise and join us again -[1766.16 --> 1768.16] in -[1768.16 --> 1778.16] we -[1778.16 --> 1780.16] we -[1780.16 --> 1782.16] we -[1782.16 --> 1784.16] we -[1784.16 --> 1786.16] we -[1786.16 --> 1788.16] we -[1788.16 --> 1790.16] we -[1790.16 --> 1792.16] we -[1792.16 --> 1794.16] we -[1794.16 --> 1796.16] we -[1796.16 --> 1808.16] we -[1808.16 --> 1810.16] we -[1810.16 --> 1812.16] we -[1812.16 --> 1814.16] we -[1814.16 --> 1816.16] we -[1816.16 --> 1818.16] we -[1818.16 --> 1820.16] we -[1820.16 --> 1822.16] we -[1822.16 --> 1842.16] we -[1842.16 --> 1846.16] we -[1846.16 --> 1848.16] we -[1848.16 --> 1850.16] we -[1850.16 --> 1852.98] around me. -[1866.54 --> 1870.80] Jesus, the name above every other name. -[1872.78 --> 1877.40] Jesus, the only one who could ever sing. -[1877.40 --> 1883.50] We will heal every breath, we could ever breathe. -[1883.62 --> 1885.32] We live for you. -[1886.50 --> 1888.44] We live for you. -[1890.70 --> 1895.12] Holy, there is no one like you. -[1895.32 --> 1898.26] There is none beside you. -[1898.66 --> 1902.54] Open up my eyes in wonder. -[1902.54 --> 1909.02] Show me who you are and fill me with your heart. -[1909.26 --> 1915.36] And lead me in love to those around me. -[1915.36 --> 1922.36] I will build my life upon your love. -[1922.36 --> 1929.36] I will build my life upon your love. -[1929.36 --> 1945.58] I will build my life upon your love. -[1945.58 --> 1950.44] It is a firm foundation. -[1950.44 --> 1957.48] I will build my life upon your love. -[1957.48 --> 1962.30] And I will not be shaken. -[1962.30 --> 1969.28] And I will build my life upon your love. -[1969.28 --> 1974.16] It is a firm foundation. -[1974.82 --> 1981.28] I will build my life upon your love. -[1981.28 --> 1986.18] And I will not be shaken. -[1986.18 --> 1991.26] Holy, there is no one like you. -[1991.26 --> 1994.52] There is none beside you. -[1995.00 --> 1998.80] Open up my eyes in wonder. -[1999.18 --> 2005.16] And show me who you are and fill me with your heart. -[2005.16 --> 2008.10] And leave me with your heart. -[2008.36 --> 2009.22] If you know who you are, -[2009.22 --> 2011.46] around me. -[2025.92 --> 2027.94] Amen. -[2027.94 --> 2057.92] piano plays softly -[2057.92 --> 2087.90] piano plays softly -[2087.92 --> 2117.90] piano plays softly -[2117.90 --> 2119.90] piano plays softly -[2119.90 --> 2122.94] With all creation I sing -[2122.94 --> 2125.90] Praise to you, King of kings -[2125.90 --> 2127.90] You are my everything -[2128.46 --> 2131.90] And I will adore you -[2131.90 --> 2149.90] Clothed in rainbows of living color -[2149.90 --> 2153.90] Flashes of lightning, rolls of thunder -[2153.90 --> 2159.90] Blessing and honor, strength and glory -[2159.90 --> 2167.90] Empower me to you, the only wise king -[2167.90 --> 2171.90] Holy, holy, holy -[2171.90 --> 2173.90] Is the Lord God Almighty -[2173.90 --> 2177.90] Who was and is and is to come -[2177.90 --> 2183.90] With all creation I sing -[2183.90 --> 2185.90] Praise to the King of peace -[2185.90 --> 2188.90] You are my everything -[2188.90 --> 2193.90] And I will adore you -[2193.90 --> 2206.90] Filled with wonder -[2206.90 --> 2210.90] Awestruck wonder -[2210.90 --> 2216.90] At the mention of your name -[2216.90 --> 2219.90] Filled with wonder -[2219.90 --> 2222.90] Awestruck wonder -[2222.90 --> 2228.90] At the mention of your name -[2228.90 --> 2232.90] Jesus, your name is power -[2232.90 --> 2234.90] Breath of the Lord -[2234.90 --> 2236.90] Breath of the Lord -[2236.90 --> 2238.90] Such a marvelous mystery -[2238.90 --> 2244.90] Holy, holy, holy -[2244.90 --> 2246.90] Holy, holy -[2246.90 --> 2248.90] Is the Lord God Almighty -[2248.90 --> 2252.90] Who was and is and is to come -[2252.90 --> 2254.90] With all creation I sing -[2254.90 --> 2256.90] With all creation I sing -[2256.90 --> 2258.90] Praise to the King of kings -[2258.90 --> 2260.90] You are my everything -[2260.90 --> 2264.90] And I will adore you -[2264.90 --> 2266.90] Holy, holy, holy -[2266.90 --> 2270.90] Is the Lord God Almighty -[2270.90 --> 2274.90] Who was and is and is to come -[2274.90 --> 2280.90] With all creation I sing -[2280.90 --> 2282.90] Praise to the King of kings -[2282.90 --> 2284.90] You are my everything -[2284.90 --> 2288.90] And I will adore you -[2288.90 --> 2306.90] May we see you -[2306.90 --> 2322.90] Good morning my name is Pearl -[2322.90 --> 2324.90] I'm one of the deacons here -[2324.90 --> 2326.90] At Langley Emanuel and we continue worship -[2326.90 --> 2328.90] By having an offering and our offering -[2328.90 --> 2330.90] Today is for the budget -[2330.90 --> 2332.90] Which is for the ministries of this church -[2332.90 --> 2334.90] And if you wish to give to that then please -[2334.90 --> 2336.90] Mark it as such you can use the envelopes -[2336.90 --> 2338.90] That are in the chairs in front of you -[2338.90 --> 2340.90] And then any other offerings -[2340.90 --> 2342.90] That are not marked are going to be going -[2342.90 --> 2348.90] To the CRC BC Refugee Chaplain Ministry -[2348.90 --> 2354.90] And this ministry is currently run by Dina Nikolai -[2354.90 --> 2358.90] And she works out of the Welcome Centre in Vancouver -[2358.90 --> 2362.90] And her mission is to provide a welcoming face -[2362.90 --> 2366.90] To all immigrants and visitors that are -[2366.90 --> 2370.90] Come to Canada that are seeking a place to live here -[2370.90 --> 2374.90] And so she provides support in the way of pointing them -[2374.90 --> 2376.90] Into housing, pointing them to -[2376.90 --> 2378.90] Pointing them to English language -[2378.90 --> 2382.90] What all these things that refugees need -[2382.90 --> 2384.90] So it's a very important ministry that's happening -[2384.90 --> 2386.90] In downtown Vancouver -[2386.90 --> 2388.90] Very interesting -[2388.90 --> 2390.90] The verse that I picked -[2390.90 --> 2392.90] To kind of sort of wrap this up -[2392.90 --> 2394.90] Is the same verse -[2394.90 --> 2396.90] Do not forget to do good -[2396.90 --> 2398.90] And share with others -[2398.90 --> 2400.90] For with such sacrifices God is pleased -[2400.90 --> 2402.90] So now you've heard it three times -[2402.90 --> 2404.90] Thank you -[2432.90 --> 2438.90] For the gift of grace is my Redeemer -[2438.90 --> 2444.90] There is no more for heaven now to give -[2444.90 --> 2450.90] He is my joy, my righteousness and freedom -[2450.90 --> 2456.90] My steadfast love, my deep and balanced peace -[2456.90 --> 2458.90] To this I hold -[2458.90 --> 2462.90] My hope is only Jesus -[2462.90 --> 2468.90] For my life is holy and who is -[2468.90 --> 2472.90] Oh how strange and divine -[2472.90 --> 2475.90] I can see all is mine -[2475.90 --> 2480.90] Yet not I, but through Christ in me -[2480.90 --> 2486.90] The night is dark -[2486.90 --> 2490.90] But I am not forsaken -[2490.90 --> 2492.90] For by my side -[2492.90 --> 2496.90] My Saviour he will stay -[2496.90 --> 2498.90] I labor on -[2498.90 --> 2502.90] In weakness and rejoicing -[2502.90 --> 2504.90] For in my need -[2504.90 --> 2508.90] His power is displayed -[2508.90 --> 2510.90] His power is filled -[2510.90 --> 2512.90] My shepherd will defend me -[2512.90 --> 2516.90] Through the deepest valleys -[2516.90 --> 2518.90] He will lead -[2518.90 --> 2522.90] Oh the night has been won -[2522.90 --> 2524.90] And I shall overcome -[2524.90 --> 2528.90] Yet not I, but through Christ in me -[2528.90 --> 2540.90] Christ in me -[2540.90 --> 2542.90] No fate I dread -[2542.90 --> 2546.90] I know I am forgiven -[2546.90 --> 2548.90] The future sure -[2548.90 --> 2552.90] The price it has been paid -[2552.90 --> 2554.90] For Jesus bled -[2554.90 --> 2556.90] And suffered for my pardon -[2556.90 --> 2560.90] And He was raised -[2560.90 --> 2562.90] To overflow the grave -[2562.90 --> 2566.90] To this I hold -[2566.90 --> 2568.90] My sin has been defeated -[2568.90 --> 2572.90] Jesus now and ever is my King -[2572.90 --> 2574.90] Now and ever is my King -[2574.90 --> 2576.90] Now and ever is my King -[2576.90 --> 2578.90] Hold a chain down in least -[2578.90 --> 2580.90] I can sing -[2580.90 --> 2582.90] I am free -[2582.90 --> 2586.90] And not I, but through Christ in me -[2586.90 --> 2598.90] With every breath -[2598.90 --> 2600.90] I long to follow Jesus -[2600.90 --> 2604.90] For He has said -[2604.90 --> 2608.90] That He will bring me home -[2608.90 --> 2610.90] And day by day -[2610.90 --> 2614.90] I know He will renew me -[2614.90 --> 2616.90] Until I stand -[2616.90 --> 2620.90] With joy before the door -[2620.90 --> 2622.90] To this I hold -[2622.90 --> 2626.90] My hope is only Jesus -[2626.90 --> 2632.90] All but glory evermore to Him -[2632.90 --> 2634.90] When the race is complete -[2634.90 --> 2638.90] Still my lips shall repeat -[2638.90 --> 2644.90] And not I, but through Christ in me -[2644.90 --> 2646.90] To this I hold -[2646.90 --> 2650.90] My hope is only Jesus -[2650.90 --> 2656.90] All but glory evermore to Him -[2656.90 --> 2658.90] When the race is complete -[2658.90 --> 2662.90] Still my lips shall repeat -[2662.90 --> 2668.90] Yet not I, but through Christ in me -[2668.90 --> 2672.90] When the race is complete -[2672.90 --> 2674.90] Still my lips shall repeat -[2674.90 --> 2680.90] Yet not I, but through Christ in me -[2680.90 --> 2686.90] Yet not I, but through Christ in me -[2700.90 --> 2704.90] I would love to invite any kids age 3 -[2704.90 --> 2706.90] to kindergarten or older if you want -[2706.90 --> 2708.90] You can come up here -[2708.90 --> 2712.90] And join me for the children's blessing -[2715.90 --> 2718.90] Alright, here comes some -[2718.90 --> 2720.90] Look at us today -[2723.90 --> 2724.90] Good morning everyone -[2727.90 --> 2729.90] Good morning everyone -[2729.90 --> 2730.90] Good morning -[2730.90 --> 2731.90] Good morning -[2731.90 --> 2732.90] How's your summer been? -[2732.90 --> 2734.90] Are you playing outside a lot? -[2734.90 --> 2735.90] Yeah -[2735.90 --> 2737.90] I was playing inside -[2737.90 --> 2738.90] Not very much -[2738.90 --> 2739.90] No, not very much -[2739.90 --> 2740.90] Yeah, inside not very much -[2740.90 --> 2741.90] Outside a lot? -[2742.90 --> 2743.90] No? -[2744.90 --> 2745.90] Well -[2745.90 --> 2748.90] Good, lots of running is good -[2748.90 --> 2750.90] We're gonna go to children's worship time -[2750.90 --> 2752.90] But before we go, can I pray? -[2752.90 --> 2753.90] And then we're gonna do the children's blessing -[2754.90 --> 2756.90] But we're gonna have to be extra loud today I think -[2756.90 --> 2757.90] Are we ready for that? -[2757.90 --> 2758.90] Let's pray first, okay? -[2758.90 --> 2759.90] Alright, let's pray -[2759.90 --> 2761.90] Dear God, thank you so much for this day -[2761.90 --> 2763.90] Thank you that we could come to church this morning -[2763.90 --> 2765.90] That we could learn more about you -[2765.90 --> 2767.90] Be with us as we go to children's worship time -[2767.90 --> 2769.90] And the grown-ups as we stay back here -[2769.90 --> 2772.90] And as we all learn what it means to follow you in this world -[2772.90 --> 2774.90] We pray this in your name -[2774.90 --> 2775.90] Amen -[2775.90 --> 2776.90] Amen -[2776.90 --> 2777.90] Okay, let's stand up -[2777.90 --> 2778.90] Everybody else is gonna stand up too? -[2778.90 --> 2780.90] There's only four of you -[2780.90 --> 2781.90] Five of you -[2781.90 --> 2782.90] So we're gonna have to say -[2782.90 --> 2784.90] The Lord be with you -[2784.90 --> 2786.90] Really loudly, okay? -[2786.90 --> 2787.90] Can we do that really loud? -[2787.90 --> 2788.90] On the count of three -[2788.90 --> 2789.90] On the count of three -[2789.90 --> 2790.90] Are you ready? -[2790.90 --> 2791.90] One -[2791.90 --> 2792.90] Two -[2792.90 --> 2793.90] Three -[2793.90 --> 2795.90] The Lord be with you -[2795.90 --> 2797.90] And also with you -[2797.90 --> 2798.90] Good job -[2798.90 --> 2800.90] Have fun in children's worship time -[2818.90 --> 2839.90] How about now? -[2839.90 --> 2840.90] There you go -[2840.90 --> 2843.90] Some of my favorite sounds in church -[2843.90 --> 2845.90] Are the noises of children -[2845.90 --> 2847.90] Not Kevin -[2852.90 --> 2856.90] It's my privilege to lead in our church family prayer this morning -[2856.90 --> 2860.90] I'm gonna do that shaped by the words of Psalm 86 -[2860.90 --> 2864.90] And so you'll hear some of those throughout our prayer -[2864.90 --> 2869.90] And then some of what I pray is also made note of in the e-bulletin -[2869.90 --> 2872.90] That many of you have received already -[2873.90 --> 2876.90] And if you have not received the e-bulletin -[2876.90 --> 2878.90] Or don't receive that every week and would like to -[2878.90 --> 2880.90] Please just send a note to the church office -[2880.90 --> 2882.90] You can talk to me after on how to do that -[2882.90 --> 2884.90] And I'd love to get you set up in that way -[2885.90 --> 2887.90] Let's come to God in prayer together -[2887.90 --> 2894.90] Hear me, Lord, and answer me -[2894.90 --> 2899.90] For I am poor and needy -[2900.90 --> 2904.90] Hear my prayer, Lord, and listen to my cry for mercy -[2904.90 --> 2908.90] When I am in distress, I call out to you -[2908.90 --> 2915.90] Hear the prayers, God, of your saints who gather in this place -[2915.90 --> 2922.90] Some of us are here this morning out of habit and ritual -[2922.90 --> 2924.90] And that's great -[2925.90 --> 2929.90] Some of us are here this morning because we have reason to celebrate -[2929.90 --> 2930.90] And joy to give -[2930.90 --> 2934.90] And we want to lay that at the throne of your majesty and power -[2934.90 --> 2936.90] And that is great -[2937.90 --> 2942.90] And some of us are here this morning because we are crying out for help -[2942.90 --> 2949.90] In our life and circumstances, it seems as if we have nowhere else to go -[2950.90 --> 2953.90] For some of us, this is the last resort -[2956.90 --> 2958.90] And that's great that we're here -[2959.90 --> 2962.90] Hear our cry for mercy -[2963.90 --> 2965.90] And Lord, listen to our plea -[2965.90 --> 2966.90] For you are great -[2966.90 --> 2968.90] And do marvelous deeds -[2968.90 --> 2971.90] For you alone are God -[2972.90 --> 2976.90] Because of who you are, Lord, we join our voice with the psalmist who says -[2976.90 --> 2980.90] I will praise you, Lord, my God, with all my heart -[2980.90 --> 2984.90] I will glorify your name forever -[2984.90 --> 2987.90] I will glorify your name forever -[2989.90 --> 2994.90] We have so many reasons to give thanks and praise to who you are -[2994.90 --> 2996.90] And for what you have done -[2997.90 --> 2999.90] We marvel at the majesty of your name -[2999.90 --> 3002.90] We marvel at the truth of your being -[3003.90 --> 3004.90] And we are amazed -[3005.90 --> 3010.90] Even as our eyes catch only a small glimpse of your power -[3010.90 --> 3014.90] But when we see that, Lord God -[3015.90 --> 3017.90] May our hearts be stilled -[3018.90 --> 3021.90] May our lips be full of praise -[3022.90 --> 3025.90] And may we present ourselves to you -[3026.90 --> 3028.90] Holy and pleasing sacrifice -[3029.90 --> 3034.90] God, this week we give you thanks for celebrations -[3034.90 --> 3037.90] For celebrations, for particularly wedding celebrations -[3038.90 --> 3041.90] We celebrate with Ava and Jared -[3042.90 --> 3043.90] Their marriage on Friday -[3044.90 --> 3045.90] And with Kaylee and Willem -[3046.90 --> 3047.90] Their marriage on Saturday -[3048.90 --> 3050.90] What a beautiful testimony of your faithfulness -[3051.90 --> 3052.90] And a beautiful testament -[3053.90 --> 3057.90] Of you raising up a new generation of believers -[3058.90 --> 3061.90] A young generation of people committed to you -[3061.90 --> 3064.90] To walk in life and faith together -[3065.90 --> 3067.90] We thank you for that incredible celebration -[3068.90 --> 3071.90] And that time to be present with them -[3072.90 --> 3073.90] In the midst of their joy -[3074.90 --> 3077.90] We pray that you would bless their marriage -[3078.90 --> 3083.90] That you would cause them to find in that -[3084.90 --> 3086.90] The foundation of Christ alone -[3086.90 --> 3089.90] And that they might build their life together -[3090.90 --> 3092.90] In faithful obedience to your word -[3093.90 --> 3096.90] As they discern where it is that you are calling them to go -[3097.90 --> 3100.90] And how it is that you are calling them to get there -[3101.90 --> 3104.90] Father God, we praise your name -[3104.90 --> 3105.90] Amen -[3111.90 --> 3113.90] But even as we praise -[3114.90 --> 3116.90] We offer you our distress -[3117.90 --> 3125.90] Even as we sing songs of hope and joy -[3126.90 --> 3132.90] We know that life often feels as though arrogant foes are attacking us, O God -[3132.90 --> 3139.90] That ruthless people, circumstances, powers, and principalities are trying to kill us -[3140.90 --> 3141.90] And they have no regard for you -[3142.90 --> 3146.90] Save us in the midst of this -[3147.90 --> 3151.90] Help us in our grieving -[3152.90 --> 3156.90] As we have joined with the Tessa Maker and Hogawoning families -[3156.90 --> 3159.90] In their grief, the passing of Tanya -[3159.90 --> 3163.90] As we have celebrated her life together this past week as well -[3164.90 --> 3167.90] We pray for your hand of blessing on them -[3168.90 --> 3171.90] Going forward into the next days and weeks and months -[3172.90 --> 3175.90] That they might draw hope and courage from you -[3176.90 --> 3179.90] But also that they might lay their hearts bare before you -[3180.90 --> 3182.90] In the hurt and in the pain -[3182.90 --> 3186.90] Father God, we join also with Gary this morning -[3187.90 --> 3190.90] As he is mourning the sudden and unexpected loss of a friend -[3191.90 --> 3192.90] Be near to him -[3193.90 --> 3194.90] In this time -[3195.90 --> 3197.90] As he searches for answers -[3198.90 --> 3202.90] And for ways to walk through this valley of the shadow of death -[3203.90 --> 3204.90] We pray that you would draw near to him -[3205.90 --> 3207.90] And that you would help him -[3207.90 --> 3208.90] Father God, we pray that -[3208.90 --> 3210.90] Father God, we pray that -[3210.90 --> 3212.90] Father God, we pray that -[3213.90 --> 3215.90] In this time you would -[3216.90 --> 3218.90] Teach me your way, O Lord -[3219.90 --> 3220.90] That I may rely on your faithfulness -[3221.90 --> 3222.90] Give me an undivided heart -[3223.90 --> 3225.90] That I may fear your name -[3226.90 --> 3228.90] So we pray, God, that you would -[3229.90 --> 3233.90] Draw those who are walking hard roads to you -[3233.90 --> 3238.90] Help us on this hard journey to focus on you -[3239.90 --> 3242.90] We continue to pray for Doug -[3243.90 --> 3244.90] Asking that you would be near to him -[3245.90 --> 3246.90] As he struggles with cancer -[3247.90 --> 3249.90] We continue to pray, God, for our brothers and sisters -[3250.90 --> 3253.90] Our family and friends who are walking a not dissimilar journey -[3253.90 --> 3257.90] We thank you for news like that of Clary's sister -[3258.90 --> 3260.90] Who has journeyed this road -[3261.90 --> 3263.90] And at this point seems to be responding well -[3264.90 --> 3267.90] And we pray that you would stir hope in those -[3268.90 --> 3270.90] For whom that news has not yet come -[3271.90 --> 3274.90] In this time, O God -[3275.90 --> 3279.90] May we confess that you are my God -[3279.90 --> 3281.90] We cry out to you saying -[3282.90 --> 3283.90] Have mercy on me, O Lord -[3284.90 --> 3287.90] And in that crying, may we hear the psalmist say -[3288.90 --> 3291.90] But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God -[3292.90 --> 3295.90] Slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness -[3296.90 --> 3297.90] Turn to me -[3298.90 --> 3299.90] Have mercy on me -[3300.90 --> 3302.90] Show your strength in behalf of your servant -[3303.90 --> 3307.90] And so strengthen our lives of faith, we pray -[3307.90 --> 3308.90] We pray -[3309.90 --> 3312.90] We give you thanks, God, for new babies -[3313.90 --> 3316.90] And pray that you would grow them strong and healthy -[3317.90 --> 3319.90] We give you thanks for new parents -[3320.90 --> 3322.90] Whether it's the first-time new parents -[3323.90 --> 3324.90] Or the third-time parent -[3325.90 --> 3328.90] We pray for strength for them as well -[3329.90 --> 3331.90] God, in these summer months we pray as well -[3332.90 --> 3333.90] For pregnant women -[3333.90 --> 3338.90] Who are feeling in extra measure the heat and the warmth -[3339.90 --> 3342.90] And who are anticipating the birth of their child -[3343.90 --> 3346.90] Father God, we pray as well -[3347.90 --> 3349.90] For those who are struggling to become pregnant -[3350.90 --> 3353.90] We pray for those who long to be parents -[3354.90 --> 3355.90] And yet, for one reason or another -[3356.90 --> 3358.90] Have not yet had that longing satisfied -[3358.90 --> 3362.90] And so be near to them as well -[3363.90 --> 3367.90] And God, we pray for the unique family situations -[3368.90 --> 3370.90] That we know about and have in our midst -[3371.90 --> 3374.90] We pray for those who are transitioning into new care -[3375.90 --> 3376.90] And those who are looking for care -[3376.90 --> 3378.90] God, you are good -[3379.90 --> 3382.90] And we trust in your goodness to us -[3383.90 --> 3385.90] Draw us to yourself -[3386.90 --> 3390.90] God, as we come now to your word -[3391.90 --> 3393.90] We pray that you would, in spirit power -[3394.90 --> 3395.90] Descend on Kevin -[3396.90 --> 3397.90] That he might bring it to us boldly -[3398.90 --> 3400.90] And so we pray with the psalmist -[3401.90 --> 3402.90] In this time, through your word -[3402.90 --> 3404.90] Give me a sign of your goodness -[3405.90 --> 3406.90] That my enemies may see it -[3407.90 --> 3408.90] And be put to shame -[3409.90 --> 3410.90] For you, Lord, have helped me -[3411.90 --> 3412.90] And comforted me -[3413.90 --> 3414.90] God, by your word today -[3415.90 --> 3416.90] Help us -[3417.90 --> 3418.90] And comfort us -[3419.90 --> 3420.90] By your word today -[3421.90 --> 3422.90] Discomfort our apathy -[3423.90 --> 3425.90] And sustain our faith -[3426.90 --> 3429.90] We pray this, Jesus, in your most holy name -[3429.90 --> 3430.90] Amen -[3446.90 --> 3447.90] I turned mine on, Dave -[3448.90 --> 3449.90] So, we're good -[3453.90 --> 3454.90] Good morning, everyone -[3455.90 --> 3456.90] Kids -[3457.90 --> 3458.90] If you're still in here -[3458.90 --> 3459.90] I know there's some of you in here -[3459.90 --> 3460.90] I've got a story that I want to tell -[3460.90 --> 3462.90] Which I hope gives a little bit of an example -[3463.90 --> 3464.90] Of what we're going to talk about today -[3465.90 --> 3466.90] It's a true story -[3466.90 --> 3467.90] I've changed the names -[3468.90 --> 3469.90] There was once this elementary student -[3470.90 --> 3471.90] Elementary school student -[3471.90 --> 3472.90] Let's call him Ethan -[3473.90 --> 3474.90] Ethan had a little bit of a reputation -[3475.90 --> 3476.90] He was a sharp kid -[3477.90 --> 3478.90] He always had the right answer -[3478.90 --> 3479.90] He knew how to win an argument -[3480.90 --> 3481.90] He was confident in that -[3481.90 --> 3483.90] Like I always read the instruction manuals kind of way -[3484.90 --> 3486.90] Anyways, one day during recess -[3486.90 --> 3487.90] Or free time -[3487.90 --> 3488.90] Or something like that -[3488.90 --> 3490.90] Ethan got into a bit of a heated discussion -[3491.90 --> 3492.90] With a friend of his -[3492.90 --> 3493.90] Let's call him Tommy -[3494.90 --> 3496.90] This discussion was about Pokemon cards -[3497.90 --> 3498.90] Who here knows about Pokemon cards? -[3499.90 --> 3500.90] Yeah? Kids? -[3500.90 --> 3501.90] Hands up? Adults? -[3502.90 --> 3503.90] Any of you too? -[3504.90 --> 3505.90] Yeah? Oh, a lot of hands went up -[3505.90 --> 3507.90] I don't know much, so forgive me if this story doesn't make sense -[3507.90 --> 3509.90] I'm remembering it as best as I could -[3509.90 --> 3511.90] I know they're about these like monsters -[3511.90 --> 3513.90] And some of them are like fire breathing -[3513.90 --> 3514.90] And some live in trees -[3514.90 --> 3516.90] And some of them are like psychic turtles -[3516.90 --> 3517.90] And I don't know -[3517.90 --> 3518.90] But anyways, these two kids -[3518.90 --> 3519.90] Ethan and Tommy -[3519.90 --> 3520.90] They were fighting over them -[3521.90 --> 3524.90] Ethan was saying that Charizard V-Max -[3525.90 --> 3528.90] Which I gather is a big orange fire breathing lizard of sorts -[3529.90 --> 3530.90] He is unbeatable -[3531.90 --> 3533.90] Tommy, however, pointed out that -[3533.90 --> 3536.90] That no, actually Kyogre X could wipe it out -[3536.90 --> 3538.90] He's some sort of fish, I think -[3539.90 --> 3541.90] Anyways, I don't recall what was going on -[3542.90 --> 3545.90] I just remember there was dragons and winged fish being talked about -[3545.90 --> 3547.90] And both boys were not backing down -[3548.90 --> 3549.90] Alright? Not only that actually -[3549.90 --> 3551.90] As the conversation got more and more heated -[3552.90 --> 3553.90] Tommy actually started to make -[3554.90 --> 3555.90] Or sorry, Ethan started to make fun of Tommy -[3556.90 --> 3558.90] He started to mock him pretty good actually -[3558.90 --> 3559.90] It wasn't very cool -[3560.90 --> 3561.90] Now here's the twist -[3561.90 --> 3562.90] Later that day -[3563.90 --> 3565.90] Ethan realized that Tommy was actually right -[3566.90 --> 3569.90] Based on like type advantages or retreat costs -[3570.90 --> 3571.90] Again, no idea what that means -[3571.90 --> 3573.90] But it turned out that Ethan was wrong -[3574.90 --> 3575.90] Tommy was right -[3575.90 --> 3576.90] The giant winged orca thing -[3576.90 --> 3578.90] Could beat the orange fire breathing lizard thing -[3581.90 --> 3582.90] Ethan was embarrassed -[3582.90 --> 3583.90] Like really embarrassed -[3583.90 --> 3585.90] But instead of pretending like it didn't just happen -[3586.90 --> 3588.90] Ethan did something actually pretty cool -[3588.90 --> 3590.90] After lunch, before the teacher started up class again -[3591.90 --> 3592.90] Ethan actually stood up on his chair -[3593.90 --> 3594.90] And announced to the class -[3595.90 --> 3596.90] He said, I thought I was right -[3597.90 --> 3598.90] But I was wrong -[3598.90 --> 3599.90] Tommy was -[3600.90 --> 3601.90] I'm sorry for being rude, Tommy -[3602.90 --> 3603.90] Tommy just kind of nodded -[3604.90 --> 3605.90] Nobody really made a big deal -[3606.90 --> 3607.90] And the class moved on -[3608.90 --> 3609.90] Now I don't know what a Mewtwo is -[3610.90 --> 3611.90] Or what Snorlax does -[3611.90 --> 3613.90] But I do know that what Ethan did there -[3613.90 --> 3615.90] Showed a lot of strength that day -[3615.90 --> 3617.90] Because humility can be hard -[3618.90 --> 3619.90] Right? -[3619.90 --> 3620.90] Now that's a simple story -[3621.90 --> 3622.90] That happened -[3622.90 --> 3623.90] But the truths of that story -[3623.90 --> 3624.90] The truths of humbling ourselves -[3625.90 --> 3626.90] The truths of forgiveness -[3626.90 --> 3627.90] They're going to be highlighted today -[3627.90 --> 3628.90] In our text -[3629.90 --> 3630.90] Humility and forgiveness -[3630.90 --> 3632.90] They're both so important in God's kingdom -[3633.90 --> 3635.90] So we're going to look at Matthew chapter 18 today -[3635.90 --> 3636.90] And we're going to do something -[3637.90 --> 3638.90] We're going to split it up a little bit -[3638.90 --> 3640.90] We're going to read the first five verses -[3640.90 --> 3641.90] Of Matthew 18 -[3641.90 --> 3642.90] And then skip a little bit -[3642.90 --> 3643.90] And read a parable found -[3644.90 --> 3645.90] At verse 21 -[3645.90 --> 3646.90] So we're going to read -[3646.90 --> 3647.90] 1 to 5 -[3647.90 --> 3648.90] And then 21 to 35 together -[3649.90 --> 3650.90] Alright? -[3650.90 --> 3651.90] As always I encourage you -[3651.90 --> 3652.90] Please have your Bibles open -[3652.90 --> 3653.90] You can use your apps as well -[3654.90 --> 3655.90] Follow along -[3655.90 --> 3656.90] Have those at the ready -[3656.90 --> 3657.90] So we can reference them as we go -[3658.90 --> 3660.90] Matthew 18, 1 to 5 -[3660.90 --> 3661.90] And then 21 to 35 -[3661.90 --> 3662.90] Say this -[3663.90 --> 3664.90] At that time -[3664.90 --> 3665.90] The disciples came to Jesus -[3665.90 --> 3666.90] And asked -[3666.90 --> 3667.90] Who then is the greatest -[3667.90 --> 3669.90] In the kingdom of heaven -[3670.90 --> 3671.90] He, Jesus -[3671.90 --> 3672.90] Called a little child to him -[3672.90 --> 3673.90] And placed the child among them -[3673.90 --> 3674.90] And he said -[3674.90 --> 3675.90] Truly I tell you -[3676.90 --> 3677.90] Unless you change -[3677.90 --> 3678.90] And become like little children -[3679.90 --> 3680.90] You will never enter -[3681.90 --> 3682.90] The kingdom of heaven -[3682.90 --> 3683.90] Therefore, oh -[3683.90 --> 3684.90] Whoever takes -[3684.90 --> 3685.90] The lowly position of this child -[3686.90 --> 3687.90] Is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven -[3688.90 --> 3689.90] And whoever welcomes -[3690.90 --> 3691.90] One such child in my name -[3692.90 --> 3693.90] Welcomes me -[3694.90 --> 3696.90] I'll skip ahead to verse 21 now -[3696.90 --> 3698.90] Then Peter came up to Jesus -[3698.90 --> 3699.90] And asked -[3699.90 --> 3700.90] Lord, how many times -[3700.90 --> 3701.90] Shall I forgive my brother -[3701.90 --> 3702.90] Or sister -[3702.90 --> 3703.90] Who sins against me? -[3703.90 --> 3705.90] Up to seven times? -[3706.90 --> 3707.90] Jesus answered -[3707.90 --> 3708.90] I tell you -[3708.90 --> 3709.90] Not seven times -[3709.90 --> 3710.90] But seventy-seven times -[3710.90 --> 3711.90] Therefore the kingdom of heaven -[3711.90 --> 3712.90] Is like a king -[3713.90 --> 3714.90] Who wanted to settle -[3714.90 --> 3715.90] Accounts with his servants -[3716.90 --> 3717.90] He began the settlement -[3718.90 --> 3719.90] A man who owed him -[3719.90 --> 3720.90] Ten thousand bags of gold -[3720.90 --> 3721.90] Or talents -[3721.90 --> 3722.90] As some translations say -[3722.90 --> 3723.90] Was brought to him -[3723.90 --> 3725.90] Since he was not able to pay -[3725.90 --> 3726.90] The master ordered -[3726.90 --> 3727.90] That he and his wife -[3727.90 --> 3728.90] And his children -[3728.90 --> 3729.90] And all that he had -[3729.90 --> 3730.90] Be sold -[3730.90 --> 3731.90] To repay the debt -[3732.90 --> 3733.90] Let this -[3733.90 --> 3734.90] The servant fell on his knees -[3734.90 --> 3735.90] Before him -[3735.90 --> 3736.90] Be patient with me -[3736.90 --> 3737.90] He begged -[3737.90 --> 3738.90] And I will pay back everything -[3739.90 --> 3740.90] The servant's master -[3740.90 --> 3741.90] Took pity on him -[3741.90 --> 3742.90] Canceled the debt -[3742.90 --> 3743.90] And let him go -[3744.90 --> 3745.90] But when that servant went out -[3745.90 --> 3747.90] He found one of his fellow servants -[3747.90 --> 3749.90] Who owed him a hundred silver coins -[3749.90 --> 3750.90] He grabbed him -[3750.90 --> 3751.90] And began to choke him -[3751.90 --> 3752.90] Pay back what you owe me -[3752.90 --> 3753.90] He demanded -[3753.90 --> 3754.90] His fellow servant -[3754.90 --> 3755.90] Fell to his knees -[3755.90 --> 3756.90] And begged him -[3756.90 --> 3757.90] Be patient with me -[3757.90 --> 3759.90] And I will pay it back -[3760.90 --> 3761.90] But he refused -[3762.90 --> 3763.90] Instead he went off -[3763.90 --> 3764.90] And had the man -[3764.90 --> 3765.90] Thrown into prison -[3765.90 --> 3766.90] Until he could pay the debt -[3767.90 --> 3768.90] When the other servants -[3768.90 --> 3769.90] Saw what had happened -[3769.90 --> 3770.90] They were outraged -[3770.90 --> 3771.90] And went and told their master -[3771.90 --> 3772.90] Everything that had happened -[3772.90 --> 3774.90] The master called the servant in -[3774.90 --> 3776.90] You wicked servant -[3776.90 --> 3777.90] He said -[3777.90 --> 3779.90] I cancelled all that debt of yours -[3779.90 --> 3780.90] Because you begged me -[3780.90 --> 3781.90] Shouldn't you -[3781.90 --> 3782.90] Have had mercy -[3782.90 --> 3783.90] On your fellow servant -[3783.90 --> 3785.90] Just as I had on you -[3785.90 --> 3786.90] In anger -[3786.90 --> 3787.90] His master -[3787.90 --> 3788.90] Handed him over to the jailers -[3788.90 --> 3789.90] To be tortured -[3789.90 --> 3790.90] Until he should pay back -[3790.90 --> 3791.90] All he owed -[3791.90 --> 3793.90] This is how my heavenly father -[3793.90 --> 3794.90] Will treat each of you -[3794.90 --> 3796.90] Unless you forgive your brother -[3796.90 --> 3797.90] Or sister -[3797.90 --> 3798.90] From your heart -[3799.90 --> 3800.90] The word of the Lord -[3802.90 --> 3803.90] One chapter -[3803.90 --> 3804.90] Two sections -[3804.90 --> 3805.90] Two questions -[3805.90 --> 3806.90] Two answers -[3806.90 --> 3808.90] That's our text today -[3808.90 --> 3809.90] And in these two stories -[3809.90 --> 3811.90] In these two answers -[3811.90 --> 3812.90] We are given a picture -[3812.90 --> 3814.90] Of what life is like -[3814.90 --> 3816.90] In the kingdom of God -[3817.90 --> 3819.90] Jesus gives us that picture -[3819.90 --> 3821.90] We behold our king -[3821.90 --> 3823.90] Who describes the kingdom -[3823.90 --> 3825.90] His kingdom -[3826.90 --> 3828.90] And so the big idea today -[3828.90 --> 3831.90] Is the answers that Jesus gave his disciples -[3831.90 --> 3833.90] Life in Jesus' kingdom -[3833.90 --> 3834.90] The kingdom -[3834.90 --> 3835.90] Is marked with humility -[3835.90 --> 3836.90] And forgiveness -[3836.90 --> 3838.90] That's it -[3838.90 --> 3839.90] Life in Jesus' kingdom -[3839.90 --> 3841.90] Is marked with humility -[3841.90 --> 3843.90] And forgiveness -[3844.90 --> 3846.90] So in the beginning of Matthew 18 -[3846.90 --> 3848.90] The disciples are arguing about status -[3848.90 --> 3849.90] In the kingdom -[3849.90 --> 3850.90] Who will be the greatest? -[3850.90 --> 3851.90] They ask -[3851.90 --> 3852.90] Now on the surface -[3852.90 --> 3853.90] Maybe we read that -[3853.90 --> 3854.90] And we think -[3854.90 --> 3855.90] Well that's a silly question -[3856.90 --> 3858.90] But it makes a little bit more sense -[3858.90 --> 3859.90] In that culture -[3859.90 --> 3861.90] Hierarchy in the ancient Near East mattered -[3861.90 --> 3863.90] And the disciples were trying to just figure out -[3863.90 --> 3866.90] Some sense of where they would fit -[3866.90 --> 3867.90] Into that hierarchy -[3867.90 --> 3868.90] If the kingdom of heaven -[3868.90 --> 3871.90] Resembled the world that they knew -[3871.90 --> 3873.90] There would be some sort of hierarchy -[3873.90 --> 3875.90] There would be some who were greater in status -[3875.90 --> 3876.90] Than others -[3876.90 --> 3878.90] And the disciples were just trying to put their finger -[3878.90 --> 3879.90] On that new reality -[3880.90 --> 3882.90] Jesus though brings in a child -[3882.90 --> 3883.90] Into the circle -[3883.90 --> 3884.90] And he basically says -[3884.90 --> 3885.90] This kid will be -[3885.90 --> 3886.90] I mean not really -[3886.90 --> 3887.90] It was a little bit more nuanced than that -[3887.90 --> 3888.90] But he says -[3888.90 --> 3890.90] To be the greatest in the kingdom -[3890.90 --> 3892.90] You must be like this child -[3894.90 --> 3895.90] Now children back then -[3895.90 --> 3896.90] Had no status -[3896.90 --> 3897.90] And no rights -[3897.90 --> 3900.90] They were the bottom of the totem pole -[3900.90 --> 3901.90] Sorry kids -[3902.90 --> 3903.90] More than that -[3903.90 --> 3904.90] Children were -[3904.90 --> 3905.90] And still are -[3906.90 --> 3907.90] Completely dependent -[3907.90 --> 3908.90] On their parents -[3908.90 --> 3910.90] And the communities in which they live -[3910.90 --> 3911.90] To sustain them -[3912.90 --> 3913.90] For Jesus -[3913.90 --> 3914.90] To become childlike -[3914.90 --> 3917.90] Was to become completely dependent -[3917.90 --> 3919.90] That was the posture Jesus lifts up -[3920.90 --> 3921.90] As the starting point for greatness -[3922.90 --> 3923.90] In God's kingdom -[3923.90 --> 3924.90] Not self-sufficiency -[3925.90 --> 3927.90] But trust and dependence -[3928.90 --> 3930.90] Now it's important to note real quick -[3930.90 --> 3932.90] That Jesus is not calling us to be childish -[3933.90 --> 3935.90] Childishness is marked by immaturity -[3935.90 --> 3936.90] Or a lack of wisdom -[3936.90 --> 3938.90] Or a perspective that still needs to grow -[3939.90 --> 3940.90] Paul actually talks about this -[3940.90 --> 3942.90] In 1 Corinthians 3 verse 2 -[3942.90 --> 3943.90] When he says -[3943.90 --> 3944.90] He gave the early Christians -[3945.90 --> 3946.90] Spiritual milk -[3946.90 --> 3947.90] Because they weren't ready -[3948.90 --> 3949.90] For solid food yet -[3949.90 --> 3951.90] People who were young Christians -[3951.90 --> 3952.90] Still needed to grow -[3952.90 --> 3953.90] They needed to mature -[3953.90 --> 3956.90] We aren't to remain childish in our faith -[3957.90 --> 3959.90] We're called to grow in knowledge and maturity -[3960.90 --> 3963.90] But being childlike is different -[3964.90 --> 3966.90] To be childlike is to acknowledge -[3966.90 --> 3967.90] That we are not in control -[3967.90 --> 3970.90] It's to live with unabashed trust -[3970.90 --> 3971.90] In our Father -[3972.90 --> 3973.90] Not because we're naive -[3974.90 --> 3975.90] But because we've come to know -[3976.90 --> 3978.90] That his care is better -[3979.90 --> 3980.90] Than our independence -[3981.90 --> 3983.90] This is a call to humility -[3985.90 --> 3986.90] But this call to humility -[3987.90 --> 3989.90] Runs counter to what the world teaches us -[3990.90 --> 3991.90] We're taught to look within ourselves -[3992.90 --> 3993.90] To believe in ourselves -[3993.90 --> 3995.90] To take control of our own destiny -[3995.90 --> 3997.90] To rise up in greatness -[3998.90 --> 3999.90] There's a perfect example of this -[4000.90 --> 4002.90] It comes from our celebrity world -[4003.90 --> 4004.90] There is an actor -[4005.90 --> 4006.90] Nisi Nash Betts -[4007.90 --> 4008.90] For example -[4008.90 --> 4009.90] She won an Emmy recently -[4010.90 --> 4011.90] For her role in the Netflix documentary -[4012.90 --> 4013.90] Or crime drama Dahmer -[4014.90 --> 4015.90] When she won the award -[4016.90 --> 4017.90] She got up on stage like they do -[4018.90 --> 4021.90] And in a classic award acceptance speech dribble -[4021.90 --> 4023.90] She first gave thanks to the Most High -[4024.90 --> 4025.90] For this divine moment -[4026.90 --> 4027.90] Which calling an award ceremony -[4027.90 --> 4029.90] A divine moment is a little cringeworthy enough -[4030.90 --> 4031.90] And then after a few very quick thank yous -[4032.90 --> 4033.90] To three people she knew -[4034.90 --> 4035.90] She paused -[4035.90 --> 4036.90] And she slowed down -[4037.90 --> 4038.90] She centered herself on stage -[4039.90 --> 4040.90] And she enunciated -[4041.90 --> 4042.90] And she said this -[4043.90 --> 4044.90] And you know who I want to thank? -[4045.90 --> 4046.90] I want to thank me -[4047.90 --> 4048.90] For believing in me -[4049.90 --> 4050.90] And doing what they said I could not do -[4051.90 --> 4052.90] And I want to say to myself -[4053.90 --> 4054.90] In front of all of you people -[4054.90 --> 4055.90] Go on girl -[4055.90 --> 4056.90] You did that -[4057.90 --> 4058.90] After the ceremony she was interviewed again -[4059.90 --> 4060.90] Where she continued this -[4061.90 --> 4063.90] She said I'm the only one who knows what it cost me -[4064.90 --> 4066.90] How many nights I cried because I couldn't be seen -[4067.90 --> 4069.90] I'm proud that I did something people said I could not do -[4070.90 --> 4072.90] Because I believed in me -[4072.90 --> 4076.90] I hope that this serves as a delicious invitation -[4077.90 --> 4078.90] For people to do just that -[4079.90 --> 4080.90] Believe in yourself -[4081.90 --> 4082.90] And congratulate yourself -[4083.90 --> 4085.90] You hear that? -[4086.90 --> 4087.90] That's the message -[4088.90 --> 4089.90] That speech is a microcosm of the message -[4090.90 --> 4091.90] That our world is pumping out to us all the time -[4092.90 --> 4093.90] Congratulate yourself -[4094.90 --> 4095.90] Treat yourself -[4095.90 --> 4096.90] Elevate yourself -[4096.90 --> 4097.90] You're worth it -[4097.90 --> 4098.90] Believe in you -[4098.90 --> 4099.90] And when you do that -[4099.90 --> 4101.90] Greatness is around the corner -[4104.90 --> 4105.90] That's not what Jesus is saying -[4106.90 --> 4108.90] Jesus is saying true greatness -[4109.90 --> 4111.90] Doesn't start with congratulations and control -[4112.90 --> 4113.90] It starts with surrender -[4114.90 --> 4115.90] It doesn't start with you -[4116.90 --> 4117.90] It starts with him -[4118.90 --> 4119.90] It doesn't start with self-elevation -[4120.90 --> 4121.90] But with humility and dependence -[4122.90 --> 4123.90] We need to humble ourselves -[4124.90 --> 4125.90] And realize that we need God -[4126.90 --> 4127.90] Not I need me -[4127.90 --> 4132.90] Instead of trying to congratulate yourself -[4133.90 --> 4134.90] Or elevate yourself -[4134.90 --> 4136.90] Or believe in the power of you -[4137.90 --> 4139.90] Jesus calls us to humility -[4140.90 --> 4141.90] To dependence -[4142.90 --> 4144.90] And to believe in the power of him -[4146.90 --> 4147.90] But what is humility then? -[4148.90 --> 4149.90] C.S. Lewis has a great quote -[4150.90 --> 4151.90] He always seems to -[4151.90 --> 4152.90] He says this -[4152.90 --> 4154.90] Humility isn't thinking less of yourself -[4155.90 --> 4157.90] But thinking of yourself less -[4158.90 --> 4159.90] See that's important -[4160.90 --> 4161.90] This is not self-depreciating -[4162.90 --> 4164.90] It's self-evaluating -[4165.90 --> 4167.90] And recognizing we need more than ourselves -[4168.90 --> 4169.90] We need Jesus -[4170.90 --> 4171.90] We need to think of ourselves less -[4171.90 --> 4172.90] And understand we need Jesus completely -[4173.90 --> 4174.90] We depend on him -[4175.90 --> 4176.90] We humbly acknowledge -[4176.90 --> 4177.90] Yet not I but Christ through me -[4177.90 --> 4178.90] We just sang that -[4178.90 --> 4179.90] Humility matters -[4180.90 --> 4181.90] And it's tied completely -[4182.90 --> 4183.90] With the second part of our text today -[4184.90 --> 4185.90] Forgiveness -[4186.90 --> 4188.90] Because we cannot truly forgive -[4189.90 --> 4191.90] Until we fully realize -[4192.90 --> 4194.90] How utterly dependent on God we are -[4195.90 --> 4196.90] Forgiveness cannot happen -[4197.90 --> 4198.90] Until we get ourselves out of the way -[4199.90 --> 4200.90] Forgiveness only happens -[4201.90 --> 4202.90] When we humble ourselves -[4203.90 --> 4205.90] When we think of ourselves less -[4205.90 --> 4206.90] But we are jumping ahead -[4206.90 --> 4207.90] Just a touch -[4208.90 --> 4209.90] In the second part of our text today -[4209.90 --> 4210.90] Peter asks a question -[4211.90 --> 4212.90] Peter asks -[4213.90 --> 4214.90] What is the right number of times -[4215.90 --> 4216.90] We should forgive someone? -[4217.90 --> 4218.90] And then answering his own question -[4218.90 --> 4219.90] He says seven times? -[4220.90 --> 4222.90] Now it was a common rabbinic teaching -[4223.90 --> 4224.90] Back then to forgive someone -[4225.90 --> 4226.90] Up to three times -[4227.90 --> 4228.90] After that you could stop -[4229.90 --> 4230.90] So here Peter is actually trying -[4231.90 --> 4232.90] To be super generous -[4232.90 --> 4233.90] He says seven times -[4233.90 --> 4235.90] Four more than the most righteous rabbi -[4236.90 --> 4237.90] But Jesus replies -[4238.90 --> 4239.90] He says no Peter -[4240.90 --> 4241.90] Not seven times -[4242.90 --> 4243.90] Seventy-seven times -[4244.90 --> 4245.90] Or as some translations say -[4246.90 --> 4247.90] Seventy times seven -[4247.90 --> 4248.90] It doesn't matter what the translations say -[4249.90 --> 4250.90] Either way -[4250.90 --> 4251.90] Jesus is saying -[4252.90 --> 4253.90] Forgiveness is not a number -[4254.90 --> 4255.90] Forgiveness in his kingdom -[4255.90 --> 4256.90] Is not about keeping score -[4257.90 --> 4258.90] It's about living out grace -[4258.90 --> 4260.90] Jesus tells Peter -[4261.90 --> 4262.90] There's no number -[4262.90 --> 4263.90] Just forgive -[4263.90 --> 4264.90] Be gracious -[4264.90 --> 4265.90] Humble yourself -[4265.90 --> 4266.90] And forgive others -[4267.90 --> 4268.90] He then tells -[4268.90 --> 4269.90] What I think is possibly -[4269.90 --> 4270.90] The most extreme -[4270.90 --> 4272.90] And the most dramatic parable -[4273.90 --> 4274.90] That he tells -[4274.90 --> 4275.90] So there's a servant -[4275.90 --> 4276.90] Who owes -[4277.90 --> 4278.90] Ten thousand talents -[4279.90 --> 4280.90] To a king -[4281.90 --> 4282.90] Now the talent -[4282.90 --> 4284.90] Was the largest sum of money -[4284.90 --> 4286.90] Or the largest form of currency around -[4286.90 --> 4287.90] And ten thousand -[4287.90 --> 4288.90] And ten thousand -[4288.90 --> 4289.90] Was the largest number -[4289.90 --> 4290.90] The Greek language -[4290.90 --> 4291.90] Could communicate -[4291.90 --> 4292.90] Back then -[4292.90 --> 4293.90] So he owed literally -[4293.90 --> 4294.90] As much money -[4294.90 --> 4296.90] As Jesus could articulate -[4297.90 --> 4298.90] To the man -[4298.90 --> 4299.90] To the disciples -[4300.90 --> 4301.90] He owed literally -[4301.90 --> 4302.90] As much as Jesus -[4302.90 --> 4303.90] Could fathomably communicate -[4304.90 --> 4305.90] A modern day equivalent -[4305.90 --> 4306.90] Of ten thousand talents -[4306.90 --> 4307.90] Is somewhere in the -[4307.90 --> 4308.90] One hundred millions -[4308.90 --> 4309.90] To billions -[4310.90 --> 4311.90] Alright -[4311.90 --> 4312.90] There is no way -[4312.90 --> 4313.90] That this servant -[4313.90 --> 4314.90] Could repay the king -[4314.90 --> 4315.90] The only way -[4315.90 --> 4316.90] He could give a fraction -[4316.90 --> 4317.90] Of it back -[4317.90 --> 4318.90] Was to give the king -[4318.90 --> 4319.90] Every asset he had -[4319.90 --> 4320.90] And for himself -[4320.90 --> 4321.90] His wife and his children -[4321.90 --> 4322.90] To be sold to him -[4322.90 --> 4323.90] As slaves -[4326.90 --> 4327.90] Now this -[4328.90 --> 4329.90] Debt -[4330.90 --> 4331.90] Represents our debt -[4331.90 --> 4332.90] Of sin -[4332.90 --> 4333.90] Before a holy God -[4334.90 --> 4335.90] The debt of sin -[4336.90 --> 4337.90] That we accumulate -[4338.90 --> 4340.90] Is so comically high -[4341.90 --> 4342.90] Compared to the holiness -[4342.90 --> 4343.90] Of the holiness -[4343.90 --> 4344.90] Of our God -[4344.90 --> 4345.90] That there is no real way -[4345.90 --> 4347.90] To actually articulate -[4347.90 --> 4348.90] Or communicate it -[4349.90 --> 4350.90] It is incomprehensible -[4351.90 --> 4352.90] It is innumerable -[4352.90 --> 4353.90] And the weight -[4353.90 --> 4354.90] Of the debt -[4354.90 --> 4355.90] Of our sin -[4355.90 --> 4356.90] Is immeasurable -[4358.90 --> 4359.90] But in the parable -[4360.90 --> 4361.90] The king takes pity -[4361.90 --> 4362.90] On the servant -[4362.90 --> 4363.90] And forgives the debt -[4363.90 --> 4364.90] Wipes it away -[4364.90 --> 4365.90] It doesn't exist -[4365.90 --> 4366.90] The word here used -[4366.90 --> 4367.90] Is actually -[4367.90 --> 4368.90] He took pity -[4368.90 --> 4369.90] And it's the same word -[4369.90 --> 4370.90] In the Greek -[4370.90 --> 4372.90] That is used to describe -[4372.90 --> 4373.90] Jesus' compassion -[4373.90 --> 4374.90] Or his mercy -[4375.90 --> 4376.90] The king showed mercy -[4376.90 --> 4377.90] Showed compassion -[4377.90 --> 4378.90] He forgave the debt -[4379.90 --> 4380.90] He took it actually -[4380.90 --> 4381.90] Upon himself -[4383.90 --> 4384.90] Just like Jesus -[4384.90 --> 4385.90] Shows mercy -[4386.90 --> 4387.90] And again -[4387.90 --> 4388.90] The debt of sin -[4388.90 --> 4389.90] That we have been forgiven -[4389.90 --> 4390.90] Is the same -[4390.90 --> 4391.90] It's gone -[4391.90 --> 4392.90] It's been wiped away -[4392.90 --> 4393.90] It's been abolished -[4393.90 --> 4395.90] Jesus took that on himself -[4395.90 --> 4397.90] With his life, death, and resurrection -[4397.90 --> 4399.90] Our debt has been paid -[4399.90 --> 4400.90] We have been shown mercy -[4400.90 --> 4402.90] We have been shown compassion -[4402.90 --> 4403.90] Brothers and sisters -[4403.90 --> 4404.90] At Emmanuel -[4404.90 --> 4406.90] We are this servant -[4407.90 --> 4409.90] We have to see that -[4410.90 --> 4411.90] Our debt -[4412.90 --> 4413.90] Which is far too great -[4413.90 --> 4414.90] To measure -[4414.90 --> 4415.90] Was utterly -[4415.90 --> 4416.90] And completely forgiven -[4416.90 --> 4417.90] By Jesus -[4417.90 --> 4418.90] At the foot of the cross -[4418.90 --> 4419.90] And at the empty tomb -[4419.90 --> 4421.90] We are forgiven -[4422.90 --> 4423.90] Our debt is paid -[4423.90 --> 4426.90] We are coming back to this -[4426.90 --> 4428.90] But the story continues -[4428.90 --> 4430.90] That same servant -[4430.90 --> 4432.90] The one who had a debt -[4432.90 --> 4433.90] That he could never repay -[4433.90 --> 4436.90] He refuses to show -[4436.90 --> 4437.90] That same forgiveness -[4437.90 --> 4438.90] To another -[4438.90 --> 4439.90] Who owed him -[4439.90 --> 4440.90] Only 100 silver coins -[4440.90 --> 4441.90] Which is about -[4441.90 --> 4442.90] A thousand bucks -[4442.90 --> 4443.90] Alright? -[4443.90 --> 4444.90] Now a thousand dollars -[4444.90 --> 4445.90] Is not insignificant -[4445.90 --> 4447.90] But in relation -[4447.90 --> 4449.90] To what he was just forgiven -[4449.90 --> 4451.90] It is a minuscule amount -[4452.90 --> 4453.90] Not only does he refuse -[4455.90 --> 4456.90] To forgive -[4456.90 --> 4458.90] He shows no mercy -[4458.90 --> 4459.90] He chokes the man -[4459.90 --> 4461.90] And he throws him in jail -[4462.90 --> 4463.90] Well the king finds out -[4463.90 --> 4464.90] And the unforgiving -[4464.90 --> 4465.90] Servant's future -[4465.90 --> 4467.90] Is as bleak as it gets -[4467.90 --> 4468.90] He's thrown in jail -[4468.90 --> 4469.90] And tortured -[4469.90 --> 4471.90] Until the debt can be paid -[4471.90 --> 4472.90] Which we know -[4472.90 --> 4473.90] Will be never -[4473.90 --> 4480.90] Are we still that servant? -[4480.90 --> 4484.90] What thousand dollar grudge -[4484.90 --> 4486.90] Are we refusing to forgive? -[4486.90 --> 4487.90] What bitterness -[4487.90 --> 4489.90] Are we holding on to right now? -[4489.90 --> 4491.90] Maybe it's not small -[4492.90 --> 4493.90] This grudge -[4493.90 --> 4494.90] This wrongdoing -[4494.90 --> 4496.90] Maybe it's not insignificant -[4496.90 --> 4498.90] Maybe it's not even undeserved -[4500.90 --> 4502.90] But in light of the weight of sin -[4502.90 --> 4503.90] That we've been forgiven -[4503.90 --> 4504.90] That grudge -[4504.90 --> 4505.90] That bitterness -[4505.90 --> 4506.90] Is minimal -[4506.90 --> 4507.90] Beyond comparison -[4507.90 --> 4509.90] So what bitterness -[4509.90 --> 4510.90] Are we clinging to? -[4510.90 --> 4512.90] What are we elevating -[4512.90 --> 4513.90] More than it needs to? -[4513.90 --> 4514.90] What bitterness -[4514.90 --> 4516.90] Are we letting take control -[4517.90 --> 4518.90] Of who we are? -[4519.90 --> 4520.90] What grudge is grown -[4520.90 --> 4521.90] In our hearts so large -[4521.90 --> 4522.90] That we are unwilling -[4522.90 --> 4523.90] To let it go? -[4524.90 --> 4526.90] We know that we are -[4526.90 --> 4527.90] That servant -[4527.90 --> 4528.90] Who has been forgiven -[4528.90 --> 4529.90] And praise God for that -[4529.90 --> 4530.90] Amen? -[4530.90 --> 4533.90] But are we the same servant -[4533.90 --> 4535.90] Who refuses to forgive? -[4535.90 --> 4539.90] See this parable -[4539.90 --> 4540.90] Which is both -[4540.90 --> 4541.90] Very extreme -[4542.90 --> 4543.90] Yet also parallels -[4544.90 --> 4546.90] Our lives so closely -[4547.90 --> 4548.90] It highlights something -[4549.90 --> 4550.90] Very heavy -[4550.90 --> 4552.90] And it needs to sit on us -[4552.90 --> 4553.90] With that same kind of weight -[4553.90 --> 4555.90] If we are unwilling -[4555.90 --> 4556.90] To forgive others -[4556.90 --> 4558.90] If we are unwilling -[4558.90 --> 4559.90] To forgive -[4559.90 --> 4561.90] Those who have wronged us -[4562.90 --> 4564.90] We are not actually living out -[4565.90 --> 4567.90] The forgiveness that God has granted us -[4567.90 --> 4569.90] If we are so stubborn -[4569.90 --> 4570.90] That we cannot forgive others -[4570.90 --> 4571.90] We are that servant -[4572.90 --> 4574.90] Shaking someone over a thousand dollars -[4574.90 --> 4576.90] Even though we have been forgiven a billion -[4576.90 --> 4577.90] Even though we have been forgiven a billion -[4579.90 --> 4580.90] We are forgiven -[4581.90 --> 4583.90] Forgiven people must extend forgiveness -[4584.90 --> 4585.90] Even if it is hard -[4587.90 --> 4589.90] Because that is the truth too, right? -[4590.90 --> 4591.90] Like forgiveness is hard -[4592.90 --> 4593.90] We can't just blow past that -[4594.90 --> 4596.90] It wouldn't be responsible or right of me -[4597.90 --> 4600.90] To minimize how difficult forgiveness can be -[4600.90 --> 4602.90] How hurt we can become -[4603.90 --> 4604.90] People have hurt us -[4605.90 --> 4606.90] We have been harmed -[4607.90 --> 4609.90] Some of us are hurting immensely -[4610.90 --> 4612.90] Forgiveness isn't easy -[4613.90 --> 4615.90] It is extremely difficult -[4616.90 --> 4618.90] Sometimes it doesn't even seem natural -[4619.90 --> 4621.90] And again, I think that is because it isn't -[4622.90 --> 4623.90] We want justice -[4624.90 --> 4626.90] We want for things to be equal -[4627.90 --> 4629.90] The thing is sometimes -[4629.90 --> 4631.90] Sometimes we often think we are after justice -[4632.90 --> 4634.90] But in reality it is really more like revenge -[4635.90 --> 4636.90] We want the scales to be balanced -[4637.90 --> 4638.90] We want people to get what they deserve -[4639.90 --> 4641.90] That is sort of the default in our fallibility -[4642.90 --> 4643.90] But that posture -[4644.90 --> 4645.90] This always keeping score -[4646.90 --> 4647.90] Always needing payback -[4648.90 --> 4649.90] It leads us away from grace -[4650.90 --> 4651.90] Not towards it -[4652.90 --> 4653.90] We want to see what was wrong brought right -[4654.90 --> 4655.90] We want the hurt to be felt -[4656.90 --> 4658.90] We want equilibrium in the world around us -[4658.90 --> 4659.90] We want -[4660.90 --> 4661.90] We want -[4662.90 --> 4663.90] We want -[4664.90 --> 4666.90] That is not humility, is it? -[4667.90 --> 4669.90] That is not thinking of ourselves less -[4670.90 --> 4675.90] I have had the opportunity to take a bunch of counseling courses in my school -[4676.90 --> 4677.90] And I know others have as well -[4677.90 --> 4678.90] So this -[4678.90 --> 4680.90] Possibly you can affirm this with me afterwards -[4680.90 --> 4683.90] One thing that came to light quite regularly in this class is this -[4683.90 --> 4692.90] Is that counselors often find that unforgiveness lies at the heart of many deep personal struggles -[4692.90 --> 4696.90] It's unforgiveness that's at the root of a lot of people's hardships -[4697.90 --> 4699.90] It causes pain and frustration -[4700.90 --> 4704.90] And more than that, we start to lose sight of what God says we should be focusing on -[4705.90 --> 4708.90] See, when we hold back forgiveness from those who have hurt us -[4708.90 --> 4714.90] We often lose sight of just how much we have actually been forgiven by our God -[4715.90 --> 4719.90] See, the grace God has poured out is immeasurable -[4720.90 --> 4723.90] Because of that, forgiveness must be our response -[4724.90 --> 4729.90] An intentional, a willful choice to live out that grace in real and sometimes very difficult ways -[4729.90 --> 4732.90] Grace begets grace which begets grace -[4732.90 --> 4737.90] This doesn't mean forgetting the pain or pretending it doesn't matter -[4738.90 --> 4741.90] But it does mean recognizing that our own debt was far greater -[4742.90 --> 4745.90] And yet it was wiped away by our merciful King -[4746.90 --> 4752.90] Now fortunately for us, Jesus not only just tells us that we need to forgive -[4753.90 --> 4755.90] He has shown us how to forgive -[4755.90 --> 4761.90] See, one of the reasons forgiveness is so hard is that it requires sacrifice and humility -[4762.90 --> 4764.90] That's the gospel, sacrifice and humility -[4765.90 --> 4768.90] Jesus humbled himself and he made himself of no reputation -[4769.90 --> 4772.90] He came down into this broken world as God incarnate -[4773.90 --> 4778.90] And then he lived a perfect life that you and I, that we all fail to live each and every day -[4779.90 --> 4782.90] Dying an unbelievably gruesome death on the cross -[4782.90 --> 4786.90] Bearing the burden of the weight of the sin of all of humanity on his shoulders -[4787.90 --> 4789.90] As our sacrifice -[4790.90 --> 4793.90] So that we may be spared judgment and have our sins forgiven -[4794.90 --> 4795.90] But death couldn't hold him -[4796.90 --> 4799.90] And so three days later he rose from the dead, defeating sin and death -[4800.90 --> 4803.90] Forgiving all who call upon his name as Savior -[4803.90 --> 4805.90] For us to be forgiven -[4806.90 --> 4807.90] Our God had to stoop -[4808.90 --> 4809.90] So low -[4810.90 --> 4811.90] So low -[4812.90 --> 4813.90] So low that he became one of us -[4814.90 --> 4815.90] He humbled himself -[4816.90 --> 4817.90] He brought himself into our broken world -[4818.90 --> 4819.90] Not as a king in power -[4820.90 --> 4821.90] But as a servant in pain -[4822.90 --> 4824.90] And he bore the hurt -[4824.90 --> 4825.90] The rejection -[4825.90 --> 4826.90] The mockery -[4826.90 --> 4827.90] The beatings -[4827.90 --> 4828.90] The betrayal -[4828.90 --> 4829.90] He bore all of it -[4829.90 --> 4830.90] And he did so in silence -[4831.90 --> 4835.90] Even though just the faintest whisper from his lips -[4836.90 --> 4837.90] Could have summoned heaven's armies -[4838.90 --> 4839.90] In revenge -[4840.90 --> 4841.90] But to forgive us -[4842.90 --> 4843.90] Jesus just didn't give up his pride -[4844.90 --> 4845.90] He didn't just swallow his righteous anger -[4846.90 --> 4847.90] He gave up everything -[4848.90 --> 4849.90] He gave up his life -[4849.90 --> 4850.90] He held nothing back -[4851.90 --> 4854.90] Because that's what forgiveness required -[4855.90 --> 4857.90] And he did it for you -[4858.90 --> 4859.90] And he did it for me -[4860.90 --> 4862.90] Jesus sacrificed himself -[4863.90 --> 4864.90] He sacrificed his whole self -[4865.90 --> 4866.90] To forgive us -[4867.90 --> 4869.90] So yes, forgiveness requires sacrifice -[4870.90 --> 4871.90] Forgiveness -[4872.90 --> 4873.90] To forgive someone is to lay something down -[4874.90 --> 4875.90] Our pride, our stubborn will -[4876.90 --> 4877.90] Our right to be angry -[4877.90 --> 4880.90] Our grip on whatever it is we think they owe us -[4881.90 --> 4882.90] Sometimes it means -[4883.90 --> 4884.90] Releasing the ache that feels justified -[4885.90 --> 4887.90] Or the fear that seems reasonable -[4888.90 --> 4890.90] Or the wound that is still so raw -[4891.90 --> 4893.90] But grace should never cling -[4894.90 --> 4895.90] It's given -[4896.90 --> 4897.90] It's laid down for someone to receive -[4898.90 --> 4899.90] Just as Christ laid down his life for us -[4900.90 --> 4904.90] See, Jesus showed us in his life, death and resurrection -[4904.90 --> 4906.90] That true forgiveness comes from humbling ourselves -[4907.90 --> 4908.90] From depending on God -[4909.90 --> 4910.90] And ultimately from sacrificing ourselves -[4911.90 --> 4915.90] A true disciple of Christ will show forgiveness to others -[4916.90 --> 4919.90] As an example of fruit from receiving the gospel -[4920.90 --> 4922.90] No hidden agendas, no selfish motivation -[4923.90 --> 4927.90] Just forgiveness born out of sacrifice and gospel truth -[4927.90 --> 4933.90] Forgiveness is the fruit of a gospel life lived -[4934.90 --> 4936.90] Right? You know the carrot and the stick? -[4937.90 --> 4938.90] That's the carrot -[4939.90 --> 4940.90] If you're a carrot person, if you need positive motivation -[4941.90 --> 4942.90] That's that, please hear that -[4943.90 --> 4945.90] Forgiveness is the fruit of a gospel life lived -[4946.90 --> 4947.90] If you're more of a stick person -[4947.90 --> 4949.90] If you need a little harsher motivation, then hear this -[4950.90 --> 4953.90] This passage teaches us that independence and unforgiveness -[4953.90 --> 4954.90] Cannot be part of God's kingdom -[4955.90 --> 4956.90] Independence and unforgiveness -[4957.90 --> 4960.90] Go so completely against the character and nature of our king -[4961.90 --> 4962.90] That it can't be there -[4963.90 --> 4964.90] If we're to behold our king -[4965.90 --> 4966.90] Those characteristics cannot happen -[4967.90 --> 4968.90] They cannot be present -[4970.90 --> 4971.90] So yeah, forgiveness is hard -[4972.90 --> 4974.90] It is sacrificial -[4974.90 --> 4977.90] And it's a daily act of will -[4978.90 --> 4980.90] And all of that reflects Jesus Christ in this world -[4981.90 --> 4983.90] To forgive someone is to humble oneself -[4984.90 --> 4987.90] To forgive someone is to reflect Jesus to that person -[4988.90 --> 4992.90] Some of you have heard of the person -[4993.90 --> 4994.90] Cary Ten Boom -[4995.90 --> 4996.90] Sorry, Cory, Cory Ten Boom -[4997.90 --> 4998.90] Cary, got it wrong -[4999.90 --> 5000.90] Cory Ten Boom -[5001.90 --> 5002.90] Cory was a Christian in Holland -[5002.90 --> 5004.90] That helped hide Jews during World War II -[5005.90 --> 5006.90] Sadly, Cory was eventually captured -[5007.90 --> 5009.90] And imprisoned in a concentration camp -[5010.90 --> 5011.90] She survived though -[5012.90 --> 5013.90] And years later after the war -[5014.90 --> 5015.90] She was speaking about forgiveness in a church in Germany -[5016.90 --> 5017.90] Believe it or not -[5018.90 --> 5020.90] When a former SS guard approached her -[5021.90 --> 5023.90] Someone who helped run concentration camps under Hitler -[5024.90 --> 5026.90] This guard approached her and didn't recognize her -[5027.90 --> 5028.90] Or who she was -[5028.90 --> 5030.90] But she recognized him -[5031.90 --> 5032.90] As one who had imprisoned her -[5033.90 --> 5035.90] This guard approached Cory -[5036.90 --> 5037.90] Extended his hand -[5038.90 --> 5039.90] And he earnestly asked her -[5040.90 --> 5041.90] Will you forgive me? -[5042.90 --> 5045.90] Now Cory writes that she couldn't in her heart -[5046.90 --> 5048.90] But in that moment she prayed silently -[5049.90 --> 5050.90] And asked God for the strength -[5051.90 --> 5052.90] She said she chose to raise her hand -[5053.90 --> 5055.90] And when she did she felt God's love and forgiveness -[5055.90 --> 5056.90] And she did love and forgiveness flow through her -[5056.90 --> 5058.90] And she forgave this man -[5058.90 --> 5061.90] She's quoted as saying this profound line -[5062.90 --> 5064.90] Forgiveness is not an emotion -[5065.90 --> 5068.90] Forgiveness is an act of the will -[5069.90 --> 5070.90] And the will can function -[5071.90 --> 5073.90] Regardless of the temperature of the heart -[5074.90 --> 5078.90] Forgiveness is an act of will -[5079.90 --> 5083.90] Which functions regardless of the temperature of the heart -[5083.90 --> 5085.90] It must be -[5086.90 --> 5087.90] Because forgiveness requires sacrifice -[5088.90 --> 5092.90] And at its core it is done when we completely depend on God -[5093.90 --> 5097.90] Do we truly know what God has done for us? -[5098.90 --> 5102.90] Do we understand the debt, the weight of the debt of sin -[5103.90 --> 5105.90] That we have been forgiven? -[5105.90 --> 5106.90] That we have been forgiven -[5108.90 --> 5110.90] Because if we do our response can only be one thing -[5111.90 --> 5115.90] Let us be a community that is marked by radical -[5116.90 --> 5119.90] Undeserved, kingdom-shaped forgiveness -[5120.90 --> 5123.90] And as we come to the table here today in just a moment -[5124.90 --> 5126.90] When we enter into the presence of God -[5127.90 --> 5128.90] And remember what he has done for us -[5129.90 --> 5130.90] Let us also remember these two things -[5131.90 --> 5133.90] That humility means fully depending on God -[5133.90 --> 5135.90] For everything -[5136.90 --> 5142.90] And that forgiveness means freely extending grace to others -[5143.90 --> 5146.90] The same grace that we have received from Jesus Christ -[5147.90 --> 5148.90] Amen? -[5149.90 --> 5151.90] I'm going to pray and then Pastor Chris is going to lead us in communion today -[5152.90 --> 5153.90] Bow your heads with me -[5153.90 --> 5154.90] Father God -[5154.90 --> 5161.90] The call to humility is easy to hear but hard to execute -[5162.90 --> 5164.90] Lord, around us over and over again we are taught -[5165.90 --> 5166.90] To look within ourselves -[5167.90 --> 5168.90] To rely on ourselves -[5168.90 --> 5169.90] That we are important -[5170.90 --> 5172.90] And so pushing away that noise can be difficult -[5173.90 --> 5175.90] But Lord, we pray that you will stir in our hearts -[5176.90 --> 5180.90] And give us the humility that we need to depend on you for all things -[5180.90 --> 5183.90] And as we take that posture, Lord -[5184.90 --> 5186.90] May we be able to forgive -[5187.90 --> 5189.90] Lord, so many of us have been hurt by people -[5190.90 --> 5192.90] Lord, this fallen world -[5193.90 --> 5194.90] Sin runs rampant still -[5195.90 --> 5196.90] And people hurt us -[5197.90 --> 5198.90] And they harm us -[5199.90 --> 5201.90] And sometimes it can be so hard to humble ourselves and forgive -[5202.90 --> 5204.90] And Lord, I don't want to sugar coat this -[5204.90 --> 5206.90] Or make this sound so easy -[5207.90 --> 5208.90] But God, will you give us the courage, the strength -[5209.90 --> 5211.90] May we depend on you for whatever we need -[5212.90 --> 5215.90] To be able to extend the grace that you have extended to us -[5216.90 --> 5220.90] Lord, may we be sacrificial as we forgive -[5221.90 --> 5223.90] May we show radical forgiveness for those who have hurt us -[5224.90 --> 5228.90] Lord, and may we trust in you for all we need to do that well -[5228.90 --> 5233.90] Lord, you are our God -[5234.90 --> 5235.90] You love us more than we will ever know -[5236.90 --> 5237.90] And we love you -[5238.90 --> 5241.90] We lay this all down at your feet -[5242.90 --> 5243.90] And pray this in your name -[5244.90 --> 5245.90] Amen -[5245.90 --> 5252.90] As Kevin said, forgiveness is hard -[5253.90 --> 5256.90] And in today's world, especially perhaps -[5257.90 --> 5259.90] Humility is counterintuitive -[5260.90 --> 5263.90] But Jesus promises to strengthen us -[5264.90 --> 5265.90] For that journey of life and faith -[5266.90 --> 5267.90] At this table -[5268.90 --> 5271.90] Kevin said, grace begets grace begets grace -[5271.90 --> 5275.90] The grace of the word begets the grace of the table -[5276.90 --> 5281.90] Which begets grace in your life lived in response to the gospel -[5282.90 --> 5284.90] So as we come to the table today -[5285.90 --> 5289.90] May all of that be true in your hearts and in your imagination -[5290.90 --> 5294.90] As you come and receive the bread and the juice -[5294.90 --> 5302.90] May your imaginations be stirred for what is possible in the power of God -[5303.90 --> 5305.90] As he meets you here -[5306.90 --> 5307.90] God meets us at this table -[5308.90 --> 5310.90] We mark that with liturgy and prayer -[5311.90 --> 5315.90] And so I invite you to speak the words that are for you on the screen behind me -[5316.90 --> 5319.90] We come because Christ welcomes us here -[5320.90 --> 5321.90] And so lift up your hearts -[5321.90 --> 5326.90] Let us give thanks to the Lord our God -[5327.90 --> 5330.90] Let's pray together -[5331.90 --> 5336.90] With joy we praise you, gracious God -[5337.90 --> 5339.90] For you have created heaven and earth -[5340.90 --> 5342.90] You have made us in your image and kept covenant with us -[5343.90 --> 5344.90] Even when we fell into sin -[5345.90 --> 5348.90] We give you thanks for Jesus Christ -[5348.90 --> 5350.90] Who by his life, death and resurrection -[5351.90 --> 5354.90] Opened to us the way of everlasting life -[5355.90 --> 5356.90] Amen -[5360.90 --> 5363.90] Our Lord Jesus, before he suffered -[5364.90 --> 5368.90] Gave us this memorial of his sacrifice until he comes again -[5369.90 --> 5372.90] And the Lord Jesus on the night that he was betrayed -[5373.90 --> 5374.90] Took bread -[5374.90 --> 5375.90] And when he had given thanks -[5375.90 --> 5377.90] He broke it and said -[5377.90 --> 5379.90] This is my body -[5380.90 --> 5381.90] Which is for you -[5382.90 --> 5385.90] Do this in remembrance of me -[5386.90 --> 5388.90] And in the same way -[5389.90 --> 5391.90] He took the cup after supper -[5392.90 --> 5395.90] Saying this cup is the new covenant in my blood -[5395.90 --> 5396.90] Do this whenever you drink it -[5396.90 --> 5398.90] Do this whenever you drink it -[5399.90 --> 5400.90] In remembrance of me -[5401.90 --> 5405.90] For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup -[5406.90 --> 5410.90] You proclaim the Lord's death until he comes again -[5411.90 --> 5415.90] This is the mystery of our faith -[5415.90 --> 5418.90] Your death, O Christ -[5418.90 --> 5419.90] Your death, O Christ, we proclaim -[5420.90 --> 5422.90] Your resurrection we affirm with joy -[5423.90 --> 5425.90] Your coming we await with hope -[5426.90 --> 5428.90] Glory be to you, Lord Jesus -[5429.90 --> 5430.90] Church family -[5431.90 --> 5434.90] The Lord has prepared his table for all who love him -[5435.90 --> 5437.90] For all who trust in him alone for their salvation -[5437.90 --> 5439.90] And so come to this table -[5440.90 --> 5442.90] You who have much faith -[5443.90 --> 5445.90] And you who would like to have more -[5446.90 --> 5447.90] Come to this table -[5448.90 --> 5449.90] You who have been to the sacrament often -[5450.90 --> 5452.90] And you who have not been for a long time -[5453.90 --> 5454.90] Come to this table -[5455.90 --> 5456.90] You who have tried to follow Jesus -[5457.90 --> 5460.90] And come you who have failed -[5461.90 --> 5462.90] Come to this table -[5462.90 --> 5463.90] Come to this table -[5464.90 --> 5466.90] Because Jesus Christ is raised -[5467.90 --> 5469.90] Because Jesus Christ is king -[5470.90 --> 5472.90] This is his banquet feast -[5473.90 --> 5475.90] For you and for me -[5476.90 --> 5477.90] Come, if you are here -[5478.90 --> 5479.90] Or if you are joining us online -[5480.90 --> 5482.90] Come, because it is Christ -[5483.90 --> 5484.90] Who meets us here -[5485.90 --> 5486.90] These are the gifts of God -[5487.90 --> 5488.90] For the people of God -[5489.90 --> 5492.90] As we come forward to the table -[5493.90 --> 5495.90] We will do so in groups -[5496.90 --> 5497.90] And the -[5498.90 --> 5499.90] We have a couple elders -[5500.90 --> 5501.90] Who will indicate when it is time for you to come up to the front -[5502.90 --> 5503.90] As you come up -[5503.90 --> 5505.90] We will gather in a circle together around the table -[5506.90 --> 5507.90] And then we will pass each other -[5508.90 --> 5509.90] We will serve each other -[5510.90 --> 5511.90] The bread and the juice -[5512.90 --> 5513.90] As you pass the bread to the person -[5514.90 --> 5515.90] To your left or right -[5515.90 --> 5516.90] Please do so by saying -[5516.90 --> 5517.90] The body of Christ -[5518.90 --> 5519.90] Given for you -[5519.90 --> 5520.90] And then as you pass the juice -[5521.90 --> 5522.90] Please do so by saying -[5522.90 --> 5523.90] The blood of Christ -[5524.90 --> 5525.90] Shed for you -[5526.90 --> 5528.90] If you are unable to come up to the front -[5529.90 --> 5531.90] Please indicate that to the serving elder -[5532.90 --> 5533.90] Or the ushers -[5534.90 --> 5535.90] They will serve you in your tables -[5536.90 --> 5537.90] By saying the same words -[5537.90 --> 5538.90] And speaking that over you -[5539.90 --> 5540.90] And if you require gluten free -[5541.90 --> 5542.90] There is that available in the trays -[5543.90 --> 5544.90] As they go around in those little center cups -[5546.90 --> 5548.90] At this point I would like to invite the worship leaders -[5549.90 --> 5550.90] And the back of house people -[5551.90 --> 5552.90] The elders who are helping us serve to come forward -[5553.90 --> 5554.90] That we might serve them in the first table -[5555.90 --> 5556.90] And then they will facilitate our singing -[5557.90 --> 5559.90] As we go through this time together -[5559.90 --> 5562.90] Let's close the circle -[5563.90 --> 5564.90] Yeah -[5565.90 --> 5566.90] John come on over -[5567.90 --> 5569.90] Body of Christ given for you -[5569.90 --> 5570.90] Body of Christ given for you -[5570.90 --> 5572.90] Body of Christ given for you -[5573.90 --> 5574.90] Body of Christ given for you -[5574.90 --> 5575.90] Body of Christ given for you -[5575.90 --> 5577.90] Body of Christ given for you -[5578.90 --> 5579.90] Body of Christ given for you -[5579.90 --> 5586.90] Body of Christ given for you -[5586.90 --> 5590.90] Body of Christ given for you -[5590.90 --> 5591.90] Thank you -[5591.90 --> 5592.90] Thank you -[5620.90 --> 5621.90] Eat -[5621.90 --> 5622.90] Eat -[5622.90 --> 5623.90] And remember -[5623.90 --> 5624.90] And remember -[5624.90 --> 5625.90] dying -[5625.90 --> 5627.16] Happy -[5627.90 --> 5629.96] Never -[5634.96 --> 5635.22] Board of Christ -[5635.22 --> 5635.90] God -[5635.90 --> 5644.48] Blood of Christ shed for you -[5644.48 --> 5646.14] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[5674.48 --> 5682.68] It's also for you. -[5688.68 --> 5691.28] Drink and believe. -[5697.28 --> 5698.16] Amen. -[5698.16 --> 5698.30] Amen. -[5698.30 --> 5708.94] As people are making their way back from this first group, I forgot to mention, but if -[5708.94 --> 5713.82] you would like to pray with someone or meet someone for prayer in lieu of coming to the -[5713.82 --> 5719.20] table or before coming to the table or after coming to the table, there are people in the -[5719.20 --> 5721.82] foyer there with yellow name tags on that would meet you for that. -[5728.30 --> 5730.30] Hey. -[5730.30 --> 5732.30] Good morning. -[5732.30 --> 5734.30] Hey, brother. -[5734.30 --> 5736.30] How we doing? -[5736.30 --> 5738.30] Where's your sister? -[5738.30 --> 5739.30] Good morning, buddy. -[5739.30 --> 5740.30] My son is kinda amazing. -[5740.30 --> 5742.30] Thank you so much for watching. -[5742.30 --> 5743.30] My goodness. -[5743.30 --> 5745.30] He has a Beethoven cell hands. -[5745.30 --> 5747.30] a phoenix. -[5747.30 --> 5748.94] 6 us or a gegeben number 2. -[5748.94 --> 5751.94] And then if your friend's fit, we swipe to the table. -[5751.94 --> 5752.94] That's right. -[5752.94 --> 5755.82] 100%, what's the same name? -[5755.82 --> 5756.72] That's right. -[5756.72 --> 5758.26] We're looking in here. -[5758.26 --> 5764.54] And then there are people -[5764.56 --> 5766.24] in front of the table. -[5766.24 --> 5776.08] Have thine own way, Lord, have thine own way. -[5777.12 --> 5782.76] Thou art the potter, I am the clay. -[5783.42 --> 5790.52] Hold me and make me after thy will. -[5790.52 --> 5797.08] While I am waiting, yielded and still. -[5799.46 --> 5805.00] Have thine own way, Lord, have thine own way. -[5806.32 --> 5812.08] Search me and try me, Master, today. -[5813.42 --> 5819.46] Wonder than snow, Lord, wash me just now. -[5819.46 --> 5826.02] As in thy presence, humbly I bow. -[5828.20 --> 5834.02] Have thine own way, Lord, have thine own way. -[5835.48 --> 5840.70] Wounded and weary, help me, I pray. -[5840.70 --> 5848.52] Power, oh power, surely is thine. -[5849.12 --> 5854.70] Touch me and heal me, Savior divine. -[5857.06 --> 5863.26] Have thine own way, Lord, have thine own way. -[5863.26 --> 5869.88] Hold o'er my being, absolute sway. -[5871.24 --> 5877.82] Filled with thy Spirit, till all shall see. -[5878.82 --> 5884.88] Christ only, always living in me. -[5884.88 --> 5914.86] How great the chasm that lay between us. -[5914.86 --> 5921.52] How high the mountain, I could not climb. -[5921.52 --> 5927.48] In desperation, I turned to heaven. -[5927.48 --> 5934.20] And spoke your name into the night. -[5934.20 --> 5940.20] Then through the darkness, your loving kindness. -[5940.20 --> 5946.20] Torn through the shadows of my soul. -[5946.20 --> 5950.26] The work is finished. -[5950.26 --> 5952.80] The end is written. -[5952.80 --> 5959.20] Jesus Christ, my living hope. -[5959.20 --> 5968.58] Who could imagine so great a mercy? -[5968.58 --> 5975.08] What heart could fathom such boundless grace? -[5975.08 --> 5981.08] The God of ages stepped down from glory -[5981.08 --> 5987.08] To wear my sin and bear my shame. -[5987.08 --> 5990.08] The cross has spoken. -[5990.08 --> 5993.16] I am forgiven. -[5993.16 --> 5999.08] The King of kings calls me his own. -[5999.08 --> 6006.08] Beautiful Savior, I'm yours forever. -[6006.08 --> 6012.08] Jesus Christ, my living hope. -[6012.08 --> 6013.08] Alleluia. -[6013.08 --> 6015.08] Alleluia. -[6015.08 --> 6018.08] Praise the one who set me free. -[6018.08 --> 6019.08] Alleluia. -[6019.08 --> 6020.08] Alleluia. -[6020.08 --> 6021.08] Alleluia. -[6021.08 --> 6022.08] Alleluia. -[6022.08 --> 6023.08] Alleluia. -[6023.08 --> 6024.08] Alleluia. -[6024.08 --> 6025.08] Alleluia. -[6025.08 --> 6028.08] As you have broken every chain. -[6028.08 --> 6030.16] There's salvation in your name. -[6030.16 --> 6031.16] Alleluia. -[6031.16 --> 6038.90] Jesus Christ, my living hope. -[6038.90 --> 6043.40] And came the mourning that sealed the promise. -[6043.40 --> 6051.20] Your buried body began to breathe out of the silence. -[6051.20 --> 6056.26] Out of the silence, the roaring lion -[6056.26 --> 6062.48] declared the grave has no claim on me. -[6062.48 --> 6068.86] Then came the morning that sealed the promise. -[6069.26 --> 6074.00] Your buried body began to breathe. -[6074.00 --> 6080.26] Out of the silence, the roaring lion -[6080.26 --> 6086.46] declared the grave has no claim on me. -[6087.04 --> 6091.26] Jesus, yours is the victory. -[6095.78 --> 6101.64] Hallelujah, praise the one who set me free. -[6101.64 --> 6107.40] Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me. -[6107.40 --> 6113.06] You have broken every chain, his salvation in your name. -[6113.36 --> 6118.44] Jesus Christ, my living hope. -[6120.62 --> 6124.36] Hallelujah, praise the one who set me free. -[6126.36 --> 6129.96] Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me. -[6129.96 --> 6135.72] You have broken every chain, his salvation in your name. -[6135.72 --> 6140.46] Jesus Christ, my living hope. -[6141.20 --> 6145.72] Jesus Christ, my living hope. -[6146.76 --> 6151.72] Oh God, you are my living hope. -[6151.72 --> 6165.52] And I love you. -[6165.52 --> 6184.20] In the darkness we were waiting, without hope, without light, -[6184.20 --> 6190.72] till from heaven you came running, there was mercy in your eyes. -[6190.72 --> 6196.90] We held the law and prophets to a virgin king the world, -[6197.16 --> 6203.44] from a throne of endless glory to a cradle in the dirt. -[6208.40 --> 6220.16] Praise the Father, praise the Son, praise the Spirit, three in one. -[6220.16 --> 6232.28] God of glory, majesty, praise forever to the King of kings. -[6232.28 --> 6242.68] To reveal the kingdom coming, and to reconcile the lost, -[6242.68 --> 6248.88] to redeem the whole creation, you did not despise the cross. -[6249.36 --> 6254.90] For even in your suffering, you sought to the other side, -[6254.90 --> 6261.24] knowing this was your salvation, Jesus, for our sake, you died. -[6261.24 --> 6277.24] Praise the Father, praise the Son, praise the Spirit, three in one. -[6277.24 --> 6290.24] God of glory, majesty, praise forever to the King of kings. -[6290.24 --> 6300.08] And the morning that you rose, all of heaven held its breath, -[6300.08 --> 6306.66] till that stone was moved for good, for the Lamb had conquered death. -[6307.10 --> 6312.90] And the dead rose from the tombs, and the angels stood in awe, -[6312.90 --> 6319.04] for the souls of all who come, to the Father are your soul. -[6319.04 --> 6325.02] And the church of Christ was born, then the Spirit lit the flame. -[6325.30 --> 6330.96] Now this gospel truth of all shall not heal, shall not faint. -[6331.32 --> 6336.66] By his blood and in his name, in his freedom I am free. -[6336.66 --> 6342.80] For the love of Jesus Christ, who has resurrected you. -[6347.80 --> 6359.30] Praise the Father, praise the Son, praise the Spirit, three in one. -[6359.30 --> 6382.94] God of glory, majesty, praise the Spirit, three in one. -[6382.94 --> 6394.98] God of glory, majesty, praise forever to the King of kings. -[6394.98 --> 6402.30] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[6412.94 --> 6426.92] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord. -[6431.40 --> 6432.00] Amen. -[6432.00 --> 6451.06] Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, -[6451.06 --> 6455.62] Worship His holy name. -[6455.62 --> 6462.50] Sing like never before, O my soul, -[6462.92 --> 6467.56] I'll worship Your holy name. -[6470.36 --> 6477.48] The sun comes up, it's a new day dawning, -[6477.48 --> 6482.66] It's time to sing Your song again. -[6482.66 --> 6489.54] Whatever may pass and whatever lies before me, -[6490.90 --> 6496.70] Let me be singing when the evening comes. -[6499.10 --> 6505.92] Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, -[6505.92 --> 6510.16] Worship His holy name. -[6511.16 --> 6517.24] Sing like never before, O my soul, -[6517.24 --> 6521.48] I'll worship His holy name. -[6521.48 --> 6531.72] You're rich in love and you're slow to anger. -[6531.72 --> 6536.96] Your name is great and your heart is kind. -[6537.62 --> 6543.14] For all your goodness I will keep on singing. -[6543.14 --> 6551.38] Ten thousand reasons for my heart to find. -[6551.38 --> 6559.46] Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, -[6559.46 --> 6563.46] Worship His holy name. -[6563.46 --> 6570.64] Sing like never before, O my soul, -[6570.64 --> 6574.78] I'll worship Your holy name. -[6574.78 --> 6583.92] Sing like never before, O my soul, -[6583.92 --> 6603.54] And on that day when my strength is failing, -[6603.54 --> 6608.92] The end draws near and my time has come. -[6608.92 --> 6614.98] Still my soul will sing Your praise unending. -[6614.98 --> 6623.86] Ten thousand years and then forevermore. -[6623.86 --> 6630.86] Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, -[6630.86 --> 6635.30] Worship His holy name. -[6635.30 --> 6640.24] Sing like never before, O my soul, -[6640.24 --> 6645.30] Worship His holy name. -[6645.30 --> 6651.24] Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, -[6651.24 --> 6655.86] Worship His holy name. -[6655.86 --> 6659.36] Sing like never before, -[6659.36 --> 6662.74] O my soul, O my soul, -[6662.74 --> 6665.74] Worship His holy name. -[6665.74 --> 6671.74] Sing like never before, O my soul, -[6671.74 --> 6676.74] Worship His holy name. -[6676.74 --> 6681.74] Sing like never before, O my soul, -[6681.74 --> 6687.12] I'll worship His holy name. -[6687.12 --> 6691.12] I'll worship His holy name. -[6691.12 --> 6696.12] Worship your holy name. -[6696.12 --> 6701.12] I'll worship your holy name. -[6701.12 --> 6731.12] -[6731.12 --> 6736.68] time together. I'm going to invite you to stand that we might receive God's blessing for the -[6736.68 --> 6744.92] journey of life and faith ahead, a journey that the Spirit moves in us to walk humbly -[6744.92 --> 6753.70] and full of forgiveness. But God goes with us to enable us to do so, and so I invite you to -[6753.70 --> 6761.00] open your heart, maybe even your hands, and receive the blessing of our God. -[6761.12 --> 6771.34] God, go before you to lead you. God, go behind you to protect you. God, go beneath you to support you. -[6771.72 --> 6778.64] God, go beside you to befriend you. Do not be afraid. Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[6778.64 --> 6787.06] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Amen. -[6791.12 --> 6793.12] You're the Lion of Judah, the Lamb who was slain. You descended to heaven and evermore will reign. At the end of the age when the earth you reclaim, you will gather the nations before you. -[6793.12 --> 6795.12] You will gather the nations before you. -[6795.12 --> 6797.12] And the eyes of all men nearly fixed. -[6797.12 --> 6798.12] You will gather the nations before you. -[6798.12 --> 6801.12] And the eyes of all men nearly fixed. -[6801.12 --> 6802.12] You will gather the nations before you. -[6802.12 --> 6803.12] You will gather the nations before you. -[6803.12 --> 6804.12] You will gather the nations before you. -[6804.12 --> 6809.12] You will gather the nations before you. -[6809.12 --> 6812.12] And the Lamb who was crucified. -[6812.12 --> 6816.12] You will gather the nations before you. -[6816.12 --> 6821.12] You will gather the nations before you. -[6821.12 --> 6826.12] And the eyes of all men nearly fixed on the Lamb who was crucified. -[6826.12 --> 6837.88] who was crucified with wisdom and mercy and justice you'll reign at your father's side -[6837.88 --> 6842.92] and the angels will cry hail the lamb -[6845.64 --> 6847.56] who was slain for the world -[6847.56 --> 6858.20] rule in power and the earth will reply you shall reign -[6860.92 --> 6864.92] as the king of all kings and the lord of all lords -[6872.44 --> 6876.20] there's a shield in our hand and a sword at our side -[6876.20 --> 6880.20] there's a fire in our spirits that cannot be denied -[6880.20 --> 6886.92] as the father has told us for these you have died for the nations that gathered before you -[6887.88 --> 6895.56] and the years of all men need to hear of the lamb who was crucified -[6895.56 --> 6902.20] who descended to hell yet was raised up to reign and his father's son -[6902.20 --> 6912.20] who was slain for the world -[6912.20 --> 6914.20] who was slain for the world -[6914.20 --> 6916.20] rule in power -[6916.20 --> 6920.20] and the earth will reply -[6920.20 --> 6924.20] you shall reign -[6924.20 --> 6930.20] as the king of all kings and the lord of all lords -[6930.20 --> 6932.20] and the angels will cry -[6932.20 --> 6934.20] hail the lamb -[6934.20 --> 6938.20] who was slain for the world -[6938.20 --> 6940.20] rule in power -[6940.20 --> 6942.20] rule in power -[6942.20 --> 6944.20] and the earth will reply -[6944.20 --> 6946.20] and the earth will reply -[6946.20 --> 6948.20] you shall reign -[6948.20 --> 6950.20] you shall reign -[6950.20 --> 6954.20] as the king of all kings and the lord of all lords -[6954.20 --> 6958.20] as the king of all kings and the lord of all lords -[6958.20 --> 6974.20] who was slain for the world -[6974.20 --> 6978.20] as the king of all kings and the bold world -[6978.20 --> 6980.20] where the land of all nations -[6980.20 --> 6984.20] out there was even the quelque part -[6984.20 --> 6986.20] of Israel diff --git a/Sunday Worship, August 17, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, August 17, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 670fd849e37e96992a7dcd884d2d9186be3d45d4..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, August 17, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,114 +0,0 @@ -• The Lion of Judah's power and authority -• Jesus as the Lamb that was slain for sinners -• God's blood breaking chains of bondage -• Every knee will bow before Him -• Worship and praise to Jesus -• Announcements about upcoming events, including a book table in the foyer -• Cleaning out a room with books available for free -• Backpack drive for Gateway of Hope, aiming to raise $5,000 -• Reactivate youth conference in September -• Mexico trip announcement: dates (March 14-24), cost increase ($1,300) -• Plea for more adult volunteers for the Mexico trip -• Abilino's goal for this year is to have over 300 people reactivate, which requires more adult leaders. -• The first meeting will be in late October and meetings will occur every 2-3 weeks until the trip. -• Adults are needed to help lead the reactivate weekend as youth participants. -• A GoFundMe has been set up for Abilino's surgery after a table saw accident, and donations and prayers are appreciated. -• Worship and praise of Jesus as King -• References to Jesus' death, resurrection, and glorification -• Description of a near revival, with people on their knees praying and singing -• Confession of failure to bow before God and open hearts to Him -• Prayer of confession, asking for forgiveness and humility to recognize God's sovereignty -• Prayer and worship -• Offerings for LACRC and Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries -• Introduction to Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries and their resources -• Invitation to give offerings and support mental health initiatives -• Worship song "Open the Eyes of My Heart" with repetition and harmonies -• Invitation to children to come up front -• Introduction and welcoming children to the front of the room -• Small talk about rain, lost teeth, and the number of holes in mouths -• Discussion of a "lesson" related to losing teeth -• Announcement that today's lesson will focus on following God -• Congregational prayer led by Clary Closteroff -• Announcement about a special general meeting to call Pastor Kevin Lobert as a minister of the word -• Beginning a day of rest with corporate gathering, singing praises, and reflection -• Requesting peace in the war in Ukraine and thanking God for potential talks between Mr. Putin and Mr. Trump -• Praying for healing and continued use of Pastor Abelino's gifts despite hand injury and upcoming surgery -• Asking for recovery from cancer treatment for Doug Kendon and thankfulness for John Kuypers' safety after medication issues -• Seeking continued safety and blessing for fire and rescue services in Langley, BC -• Giving thanks for summer changes and opportunities to spend time with family and friends -• Reflecting on material blessings and asking to remember the value of generosity and not coasting when life is easy -• Celebrating Steve and Linda's 35th anniversary -• Gratitude for God's steadfastness in their story -• Acknowledging unspoken griefs within the congregation -• Requesting God's spirit to minister to individual and collective private griefs -• Importance of understanding Jesus' identity as a whole (king, prophet, priest) and how it reveals our own identity -• Reading Matthew 21:1-17 in the series "Behold Our King" -• Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem on a donkey, greeted with shouts of Hosanna and Jesus' actions in the temple courts. -• The triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem -• The children's shouts of "Hosanna" in the temple courts -• Jesus' response to criticism, referencing Psalm 8:2 -• The significance of Matthew's account of the temple cleansing -• Comparing Matthew and John's accounts of the event -• Understanding Jesus as a king and more than just a human leader -• Jesus' unique character and roles, blending elements of various biblical figures (David, Moses, Aaron) -• Introduction to the concept of Jesus as king and prophet -• The triumphal entry in Matthew 21:1-11 -• Fulfillment of prophecy from Zechariah 9:9 -• Comparison with Roman conquering emperors and generals -• Description of Jesus' humble and gentle entrance on a donkey -• Contrast with previous desecration of the temple by conquerors -• Worship of money and legalism in the merchant system -• Contrast between obeying God's way vs. obeying the law -• Christ as King, Son of David, and future descendant of David -• Covenant between God and David (2 Samuel 7) -• Jesus' role as sinless yet punished for humanity's sins -• The crowd sees Jesus as a king who brings salvation, righteousness, and peace -• Jesus is described as a true and better king than those in Israel's past -• Jesus' prophetic nature is highlighted through his actions and teachings -• The crowd witnesses Jesus perform signs and wonders like Moses, Elijah, and Elisha -• Jesus is presented as both a prophet and a king, causing confusion among the people -• The destruction and rebuilding of the temple in three days as a sign offered by Jesus, fulfilled when he dies on the cross and resurrects. -• Jesus is the true and better prophet. -• Jesus' role as priest, including: - + Teaching the law - + Leading the community in praise to God - + Functioning as a judicial system for rituals and purity issues - + Assessing ritual purity - + Offering sacrifices on behalf of the people - + Performing purity rituals and cleansing practices -• Jesus' actions demonstrate his priestly role, including: - + Cleansing the temple - + Teaching the law (e.g. in the Sermon on the Mount) - + Healing the blind and lame - + Functioning as a judicial role when questioned by religious leaders - + Offering the ultimate sacrifice of atonement on the cross. -• Jesus' multiple roles as king, prophet, priest, servant, sacrifice, and word of God -• The nature of identity in the modern world, specifically self-made image and appearance -• Searching for hope in leaders, revolutions, and change -• Rebellion against authority and seeking control over one's life -• Overwhelm of modern life and the need for guidance -• Critique of societal leaders as "kings" who are not truly in charge -• Comparison to Christ, who is more than a king or leader -• Discussion of being united with Christ through faith and gaining His righteousness -• Exhortation to share in Christ's kingship with humility and gentleness -• You are a chosen people, royal priesthood, holy nation, and God's special possession -• As priests, you share in Christ's work, but your sacrifice is to teach others and make sure His temple (yourself) is holy -• Peter says repent and be baptized for forgiveness of sins and receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit -• The same Holy Spirit that empowered Old Testament prophets now resides within Christians -• As sons of God, nation of priests, and prophets, you must also be servants, sacrifices, and fulfill past prophecies -• The importance of confessing Jesus' name in daily life -• Living as priests, presenting oneself as a living sacrifice to God -• Being co-heirs with Christ, leading others into faithfulness and away from sin -• Fulfilling tasks as kings and stewards of creation for God's glory -• The distinction between being disciples and co-heirs with Christ -• The speaker's personal experience of feeling overwhelmed by information and seeking guidance from God -• A guru is selling a green paste online and the speaker is amazed at his wisdom -• The importance of humility and recognizing one's place in relation to God, who made humans in His image -• The unity with Christ through which He died for us and made us more than we can imagine -• The need to stop crafting oneself into false idols and remember our unity with Christ -• A prayer is offered to open minds and show the speaker more of God's Word -• A song is sung about Jesus as the only King forever, with lyrics about His power and victory -• Worship and praise to God, declaring Him as the only King forever -• Expressions of gratitude and blessing, citing Psalm 121:3-6 -• Intercessory prayers for blessings on homes, streams, and nature -• Praises to God's glory and light in darkness, referencing a cross and the earth \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, August 17, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, August 17, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a3a4676535f2f4b04149bc15c87d7ceeb868c9cd..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, August 17, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1968 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 3.14] ...and I learned the same with people, really, but I'm eating it. -[3.40 --> 8.16] I'm thinking, well, in I don't know if you can have been a little other for people to do that, but Jesus. -[8.58 --> 9.26] That's right. -[9.52 --> 9.70] Yeah. -[10.52 --> 11.86] It's like three to three. -[11.86 --> 12.18] ... -[12.18 --> 12.86] ... -[12.86 --> 13.86] ... -[13.86 --> 16.86] ... -[16.86 --> 17.86] ... -[17.86 --> 19.86] ... -[19.86 --> 20.86] ... -[20.86 --> 21.86] ... -[21.86 --> 22.86] ... -[22.86 --> 23.86] ... -[23.86 --> 24.86] ... -[24.86 --> 25.86] ... -[25.86 --> 27.86] ... -[27.86 --> 29.86] ... -[29.86 --> 46.36] ... -[54.06 --> 57.94] ... -[57.94 --> 59.66] ... -[59.66 --> 65.14] The Lion of Judah is roaring with power -[65.14 --> 67.98] And fighting our battles -[67.98 --> 72.94] And every knee will bow before Him -[72.94 --> 76.02] Our God in the Lamb -[76.02 --> 78.86] The Lamb that was slain -[78.86 --> 81.50] And the sinner of the world -[81.50 --> 84.26] His blood breaks the chains -[84.26 --> 89.66] And every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb -[89.66 --> 95.62] Oh, every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb -[95.62 --> 97.70] Oh, Jesus, oh -[97.70 --> 99.82] Oh, Jesus, oh -[99.82 --> 101.26] Oh, Jesus, oh -[101.26 --> 103.26] Oh, Jesus, oh -[103.26 --> 105.26] Oh, Jesus, oh -[105.26 --> 107.54] So open up the gates -[107.54 --> 112.36] Make way before the King of Kings -[112.36 --> 118.46] Our God who calls the slave -[118.46 --> 122.52] Is here to set the captives free -[122.52 --> 126.66] But who can stop the Lord Almighty -[126.66 --> 130.52] Our God is the Lion -[130.52 --> 133.20] The Lion of Judah -[133.20 --> 136.02] He's roaring with power -[136.02 --> 138.84] And fighting our battles -[138.84 --> 143.94] And every knee will bow before Him -[143.94 --> 146.94] Our God is the Lamb -[146.94 --> 149.78] The Lamb that was slain -[149.78 --> 152.38] For the sin of the world -[152.38 --> 155.18] His blood breaks the chains -[155.18 --> 160.58] And every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb -[160.58 --> 166.84] Oh, every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb -[166.84 --> 180.84] Who can stop the Lord Almighty -[180.84 --> 184.66] Who can stop the Lord Almighty -[184.66 --> 212.36] I've got a canh -[212.36 --> 218.36] Almighty, who can stop the love? -[221.06 --> 226.02] Our God is the lion, the lion of Judah. -[226.02 --> 231.72] He's roaring with power and fighting the battles. -[232.32 --> 236.40] Every knee will bow before Him. -[236.40 --> 242.46] Our God is the lamb, the lamb that was slain. -[242.90 --> 247.92] For the sin of the world, His blood breaks the chains. -[247.92 --> 253.30] And every knee will bow before the lion is the lamb. -[253.78 --> 260.42] Every knee will bow before the lion is the lamb. -[260.42 --> 270.42] Oh, and every knee will bow before the lion is the lamb. -[271.42 --> 281.42] Oh, and every knee will bow before the lion is the lamb. -[281.42 --> 298.42] Oh, and every knee will bow before the lion is the lamb. -[298.42 --> 302.42] Oh, and every knee will bow before the lion is the lamb. -[302.42 --> 303.42] That sounds good. -[332.42 --> 333.42] That sounds good. -[362.42 --> 392.40] That sounds good. -[392.42 --> 422.40] That sounds good. -[422.42 --> 427.42] That sounds good. -[427.42 --> 432.42] That sounds good. -[432.42 --> 437.42] That sounds good. -[437.42 --> 442.42] That sounds good. -[442.42 --> 446.42] That sounds good. -[446.42 --> 451.42] That sounds good. -[451.42 --> 456.42] That sounds good. -[456.42 --> 461.42] That sounds good. -[461.42 --> 466.42] That sounds good. -[466.42 --> 470.42] That sounds good. -[470.42 --> 471.42] That sounds good. -[471.42 --> 472.42] That sounds good. -[472.42 --> 474.42] That sounds good. -[474.42 --> 475.42] That sounds good. -[475.42 --> 477.58] port.tip to a festival. -[481.70 --> 483.50] Do we want meet or analyses? -[488.38 --> 490.78] Married aettahh support family. -[505.42 --> 525.60] Oh, you make beautiful things, you make beautiful things out of the world. -[527.08 --> 534.90] Oh, you make beautiful things, you make beautiful things. -[535.42 --> 544.90] Good morning, everyone. -[548.08 --> 548.96] It's good, it's good. -[549.02 --> 549.56] It's good enough. -[549.64 --> 550.08] Good enough. -[550.56 --> 551.16] Rough start. -[551.28 --> 551.84] It's fine. -[551.94 --> 552.40] It's raining. -[552.56 --> 553.02] It's August. -[553.02 --> 559.08] It's still so good to be joining here together on this Sunday morning as God's people. -[559.18 --> 560.70] I've got a few announcements this morning. -[560.88 --> 562.10] My name is Kevin Lobert. -[562.16 --> 563.32] I'm the youth pastor here. -[563.32 --> 567.40] And I want to make mention of just a few things before we kind of start in earnest. -[568.08 --> 572.42] The first thing is after the service, there's going to be a table out in the foyer. -[572.66 --> 575.28] And on that table are going to be a whole bunch of books. -[576.00 --> 581.86] We have a few people, Warren and Janet, are going through our library and are zhuzhing -[581.86 --> 582.48] it up a bit. -[582.54 --> 583.38] They're cleaning it out. -[583.98 --> 586.58] They are making it a little bit more accessible for everyone. -[586.58 --> 591.02] And by doing that, we're emptying it out a little bit. -[591.12 --> 592.76] And so there's going to be a lot of books on the table. -[592.88 --> 594.02] Those are free for the taking. -[594.56 --> 598.46] So I was told to make mention that those are there for you to take home and to have. -[598.92 --> 600.64] And hopefully people take lots. -[601.08 --> 601.90] That's what I was told. -[601.90 --> 604.38] So please do check that out after the service. -[604.92 --> 607.82] You'll also notice in the foyer we have backpacks on a table. -[607.94 --> 610.24] We are doing a backpack drive for Gateway of Hope. -[610.78 --> 616.10] Gateway of Hope supplies about 700 to 900 backpacks for low-income families all through -[616.10 --> 617.10] the Langley area. -[617.58 --> 621.92] And they are looking to raise about $5,000 to purchase those backpacks. -[622.00 --> 622.84] They have a supplier. -[623.08 --> 625.16] So they don't want backpacks donated. -[625.60 --> 627.80] They're just looking for money so that they can purchase those. -[627.80 --> 631.36] So we are looking to raise $5,000 before Labor Day. -[631.82 --> 636.44] If you are willing to donate to that, you can do so through the church by e-transferring -[636.44 --> 638.74] admin at licrc.ca. -[639.24 --> 646.10] Or you can put checks or money that is specially labeled into the offering bags as they come -[646.10 --> 646.42] around. -[646.82 --> 649.48] So please do consider if that's a way that you can give as well. -[649.88 --> 651.54] Finally, a big thank you again. -[652.02 --> 653.20] Reactivate is coming up. -[653.28 --> 657.00] That's a big youth conference happening first weekend, full weekend in September. -[657.00 --> 658.84] September 5, 6, and 7. -[659.22 --> 661.90] The volunteer list is filling out, and we're grateful for that. -[661.98 --> 663.22] There are still some spots available. -[663.38 --> 666.70] So please do think about helping out in that way. -[667.14 --> 671.54] We look forward to that weekend very much as that comes soon. -[671.76 --> 673.40] I'm going to invite Brandon up to the front. -[673.50 --> 675.56] He's got an announcement about Mexico. -[676.42 --> 679.16] And then I will have one more as well after he is done. -[679.16 --> 680.16] Yeah. -[680.16 --> 687.50] So it's pretty obvious when I'm up here what time of the year it is in the season. -[688.16 --> 689.50] It is Mexico sign-up. -[690.14 --> 693.86] We started earlier again, just like last year, just because everything books up so fast. -[693.86 --> 698.50] So this will be kind of the longer announcement where we have a bit of the details. -[698.64 --> 700.42] And after that, you guys don't have to listen to me talk as much. -[700.48 --> 701.62] We'll just make a little bit of the announcements. -[702.70 --> 706.16] So the dates for the trip this year are March 14 to 24. -[706.58 --> 710.00] Always that last day is a little bit fickle depending on what the flights actually are. -[710.16 --> 713.00] But that's what it will be, just be over spring break like normal. -[713.80 --> 717.08] Vernon and Emmanuel will be doing it together again, which is awesome to see. -[717.80 --> 721.62] Vernon even thought it was so important that they sent a representative today. -[721.62 --> 723.38] So Shane Vanderhoek is actually here. -[724.00 --> 727.62] If you have any questions about what Vernon feels like with that, just find the guy that -[727.62 --> 728.34] looks like a Vanderhoek. -[728.42 --> 729.08] They all look the same. -[729.26 --> 730.52] So real easy. -[732.26 --> 735.06] The trip this year, unfortunately, is going up in cost. -[735.30 --> 737.28] It is going to $1,300 this year. -[737.50 --> 741.80] We try to keep it at $1,150 for, I think, ever since I was a youth. -[741.90 --> 743.08] So like a lot of years ago. -[744.30 --> 747.44] But it's just the dollar and cost, everything's going up. -[747.48 --> 748.96] So we are raising the price of the trip. -[748.96 --> 752.50] And hopefully we can kind of offset that with fundraisers. -[752.64 --> 754.04] But it will be $1,300 a person. -[755.06 --> 755.68] And then the last thing. -[755.84 --> 759.42] So again, this trip is youth leaders, everybody. -[759.58 --> 760.78] But adults are also welcome. -[761.12 --> 763.88] We're also kind of doing a special plea for more adults this year. -[764.58 --> 768.12] The reason being is we do, like Kevin was saying, we do reactivate down here. -[768.18 --> 769.36] We also do it in Mexico. -[770.18 --> 772.38] In Mexico, it's a little bit different. -[772.44 --> 773.92] We did it for the first time last year. -[773.92 --> 780.22] And I guess you could put it in Langley kind of, I don't know how to say this without being mean to us. -[780.30 --> 780.98] But it's fine. -[782.42 --> 786.24] In Mexico, they really follow, like they dream big. -[786.86 --> 788.88] And they kind of go to God with that. -[788.94 --> 789.92] And we do as well here. -[789.96 --> 794.42] But I find often we kind of, we put God into like a realistic box. -[794.42 --> 795.86] And say, you know, God can do whatever. -[796.04 --> 796.84] And he can do everything. -[797.22 --> 799.92] But, you know, realistically, there's only going to be 50 people that come to us or whatever. -[800.00 --> 802.00] And that's what we thought with reactivate in Mexico too. -[802.68 --> 804.28] But Abilino's like, nah, nah, nah, nah. -[804.34 --> 805.04] You got to dream big. -[805.10 --> 806.40] There's going to be over 100 people coming. -[806.56 --> 811.42] So our first year, we had 150 people come to reactivate in Mexico, which was crazy. -[811.66 --> 814.10] And God really did show up for us. -[815.12 --> 819.20] But that being said, Abilino's dream for this year is over 300 people. -[820.08 --> 822.18] And, you know, that's a lot of people. -[822.18 --> 827.42] And we kind of come to trust that Abilino's wild dreams and wild ideas do come true. -[828.20 --> 832.60] In that case, we need a lot more adults to help lead the reactivate weekend. -[832.88 --> 835.50] As we do for our youth are not leaders for that. -[835.58 --> 839.12] We let them go as kind of participants in the trip. -[839.18 --> 840.22] So it's all done by leaders. -[840.50 --> 841.68] It's all done by adults. -[842.16 --> 843.86] The organization that set up the prep. -[844.10 --> 847.02] And then the actual facilitating of the reactivate. -[847.22 --> 850.16] So we would prefer to have a little bit more people there. -[850.24 --> 852.80] And I think that's Vernon's focus too is to get a little bit more adults as well. -[852.80 --> 855.92] But I know every year adults talk about coming and they never do. -[856.06 --> 857.12] This is the year to come. -[857.40 --> 859.14] So we'll call you out on that. -[859.22 --> 861.72] And we'll call out all the people that always say they want to come. -[862.42 --> 863.92] But beyond that, that's kind of everything. -[864.16 --> 866.50] We will start meeting in kind of like last year. -[866.56 --> 868.58] The end of October will be our first meeting or so. -[869.12 --> 871.66] And we meet every kind of two to three weeks after that. -[872.02 --> 873.92] Of course, holidays we don't and stuff like that. -[874.64 --> 877.90] But we will meet from then until the trip to do prepping, planning. -[877.90 --> 882.02] And just prepping you guys for the culture and all that fun stuff. -[882.18 --> 883.40] So that's about it. -[883.92 --> 884.88] That's the long one. -[885.04 --> 886.60] After that, it'll just be a reminder to sign up. -[886.70 --> 888.80] The sign up will be online only this year. -[889.20 --> 893.16] And it'll go out in the bulletin and the midweek memo. -[893.50 --> 895.16] Starting on Wednesday, I believe that is, right? -[895.32 --> 896.42] Yeah, Wednesday is the midweek memo. -[896.50 --> 897.62] So it'll be in there. -[897.70 --> 898.24] There'll be a link. -[898.40 --> 899.98] You sign up, fill out all your info real quick. -[900.44 --> 903.54] Then it gets sent off to the leaders of the trip to review. -[903.86 --> 905.20] So yeah, thank you. -[905.20 --> 910.58] And then finally, one more piggybacking that announcement. -[910.74 --> 914.80] Some of you may have read in the bulletin that Abilino, the pastor down there that we work so close with, -[915.04 --> 919.54] that's planning on 300 kids coming to his conference there in September. -[919.54 --> 921.24] He had a bad accident this week. -[921.96 --> 924.04] His hand met a table saw. -[925.24 --> 929.86] And down there, just the health plan and the way things work are a little bit dicey. -[929.86 --> 935.90] He needs to have surgery, and he needs to have surgery soon to get full mobility back in his hand. -[936.44 --> 938.06] But surgery costs money. -[938.56 --> 941.88] And they down in Mexico don't do surgery unless you pay up the money. -[941.98 --> 943.84] And so there is a GoFundMe available. -[944.04 --> 948.58] If Abilino is someone that's close to your heart, please do check out those links in the bulletin. -[948.96 --> 951.50] You can donate to that cause through there. -[951.88 --> 953.58] And he's hoping to have surgery soon. -[953.58 --> 956.36] So if that's something that's on your heart, you can do that. -[956.62 --> 963.76] Beyond the money, though, of course, we do ask for prayers more than anything as he sort of battles that accident -[963.76 --> 966.48] and sees how that can affect his ministry down there. -[967.44 --> 967.94] All right. -[968.58 --> 969.60] Those are all the announcements. -[969.92 --> 970.92] We're only seven minutes in. -[970.96 --> 971.86] That was pretty good today. -[971.96 --> 975.88] Let's all stand right now and receive God's greeting this morning. -[975.88 --> 997.46] God's greeting comes to us today from Revelation chapter 1, where God greets us with these words, -[997.46 --> 1003.02] grace and peace to you from him who is and who was and who is to come, -[1003.30 --> 1006.00] and from the seven spirits that are before his throne, -[1006.20 --> 1009.32] and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, -[1009.78 --> 1013.82] the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth, -[1013.82 --> 1015.34] and all of God's people said. -[1016.38 --> 1018.34] Please take a moment now to greet one another. -[1027.46 --> 1053.50] Our call to worship this morning is Psalm 93. -[1053.50 --> 1059.02] The Lord reigns. -[1059.02 --> 1060.26] Should I start again? -[1060.50 --> 1060.60] Yeah. -[1061.66 --> 1062.88] The Lord reigns. -[1063.36 --> 1064.58] He is robed in majesty. -[1065.10 --> 1068.78] The Lord is robed in majesty and armed with strength. -[1069.78 --> 1073.02] Indeed, the world is established, firm and secure. -[1073.76 --> 1075.66] Your throne was established long ago. -[1076.28 --> 1078.12] You are from all eternity. -[1079.18 --> 1081.30] Your statutes, Lord, stand firm. -[1081.30 --> 1085.10] Holiness adorns your house for endless days. -[1085.76 --> 1086.30] Let's worship. -[1086.30 --> 1086.38] Let's worship. -[1086.38 --> 1086.46] Let's worship. -[1086.46 --> 1090.52] Let's worship. -[1090.52 --> 1106.46] Let's worship. -[1106.46 --> 1111.52] be M Analytic. -[1113.14 --> 1119.78] Mloop for Pearl -[1119.78 --> 1121.10] in majesty. -[1124.52 --> 1126.08] Mloop for RUSSIA -[1127.46 --> 1132.42] In the Lord at thee. -[1132.42 --> 1146.02] is -[1151.86 --> 1156.18] foreign -[1160.42 --> 1161.30] 달 -[1162.42 --> 1166.72] Worship His majesty -[1166.72 --> 1170.98] Jesus who died -[1170.98 --> 1173.06] Now glorified -[1173.06 --> 1176.42] King of all kings -[1176.42 --> 1180.60] Worship His majesty -[1180.60 --> 1185.46] Worship His majesty -[1185.46 --> 1189.72] Unto Jesus -[1189.72 --> 1196.16] Heal glory, honor, and praise -[1196.16 --> 1198.98] Majesty -[1198.98 --> 1203.82] King of all kings -[1203.82 --> 1207.64] Above His throne -[1207.64 --> 1209.96] Unto His own -[1209.96 --> 1212.82] Is at the grave -[1212.82 --> 1216.82] So exalted -[1216.82 --> 1218.92] Lift up on fire -[1218.92 --> 1222.08] The name of Jesus -[1222.08 --> 1226.08] Make Him find -[1226.08 --> 1231.26] Glorify Christ Jesus the King -[1231.26 --> 1235.26] Majesty -[1235.26 --> 1240.08] Worship His majesty -[1240.08 --> 1244.46] Jesus who died -[1244.46 --> 1246.62] Now glorified -[1246.62 --> 1249.34] King of all kings -[1249.34 --> 1252.52] Jesus who died -[1252.52 --> 1258.52] Now glorified -[1258.52 --> 1267.78] I see the King of glory -[1267.78 --> 1280.78] I see the King of glory -[1280.78 --> 1284.94] Coming on a fountain -[1284.94 --> 1289.04] The polar chains -[1289.04 --> 1293.04] The polar chains -[1293.04 --> 1299.04] The seas on earth's sea -[1299.04 --> 1303.04] Launching over all our sin -[1303.04 --> 1306.58] The people sing -[1306.58 --> 1309.30] The people sing -[1309.30 --> 1312.30] Hosanna -[1312.30 --> 1314.30] Hosanna -[1314.30 --> 1315.30] Hosanna -[1315.30 --> 1317.30] Hosanna -[1317.30 --> 1319.30] In the highest -[1319.30 --> 1321.30] Hosanna -[1321.30 --> 1324.30] Hosanna -[1324.30 --> 1325.30] Hosanna -[1325.30 --> 1327.30] Hosanna -[1328.02 --> 1329.24] Hosanna -[1329.24 --> 1330.06] Hosanna -[1330.32 --> 1330.34] Hosanna -[1330.34 --> 1332.12] In the highest -[1332.12 --> 1332.34] Hosanna -[1332.34 --> 1333.12] Hosanna -[1333.30 --> 1333.98] Hosanna -[1333.98 --> 1336.38] Hosanna -[1336.38 --> 1337.52] Hosanna -[1338.62 --> 1339.56] Hosanna -[1339.56 --> 1341.80] Hosanna -[1341.80 --> 1342.56] Hosanna -[1342.56 --> 1343.78] Hosanna -[1343.78 --> 1344.52] Hosanna -[1344.52 --> 1345.50] Hosanna -[1345.54 --> 1345.90] fodара -[1345.90 --> 1346.52] In the highest -[1346.52 --> 1348.08] Hosanna -[1348.08 --> 1348.50] Hosanna -[1348.50 --> 1349.24] Hosanna -[1349.24 --> 1349.68] Hosanna -[1349.68 --> 1349.72] Hosanna -[1349.72 --> 1350.14] Hosanna -[1350.14 --> 1355.14] this selfless day -[1355.14 --> 1359.58] I see a near revival -[1359.58 --> 1365.50] staring as we pray and sing -[1365.50 --> 1368.62] we're on our knees -[1368.62 --> 1372.50] we're on our knees -[1372.50 --> 1377.78] Hosanna, Hosanna -[1377.78 --> 1382.26] Hosanna in the highest -[1382.26 --> 1389.66] Hosanna, Hosanna -[1389.66 --> 1394.46] Hosanna in the highest -[1394.46 --> 1410.34] Fill my heart and make it clear -[1410.34 --> 1416.72] Open up my eyes to the things I see -[1416.72 --> 1421.20] Show me how to love like you -[1421.20 --> 1425.32] And love me -[1425.32 --> 1434.46] Break my heart for our grace yours -[1434.46 --> 1438.78] Everything I am for your kingdom -[1438.78 --> 1446.94] As I walk the earth into eternity -[1446.94 --> 1457.34] Hosanna, Hosanna -[1457.34 --> 1466.82] Hosanna, Hosanna -[1466.82 --> 1469.22] Hosanna, Hosanna -[1469.22 --> 1473.82] Hosanna in the highest -[1473.82 --> 1480.22] Hosanna, Hosanna -[1480.22 --> 1496.10] Hosanna, Hosanna -[1496.10 --> 1498.70] Hosanna in the highest -[1498.70 --> 1502.70] Hosanna in the highest -[1502.70 --> 1504.70] Hosanna in the highest -[1504.70 --> 1509.24] Hosanna in the highest -[1509.24 --> 1510.84] I invite you to be seated -[1510.84 --> 1515.08] And pray with me -[1515.08 --> 1518.74] Sovereign God -[1518.74 --> 1523.30] We confess that although we willingly say -[1523.30 --> 1524.84] Jesus is King -[1524.84 --> 1527.32] Singing His praises -[1527.32 --> 1530.98] We often fail to bow our knees before Him -[1530.98 --> 1533.30] And open our hearts to Him -[1533.30 --> 1538.14] Instead we grant our allegiances to the relationships -[1538.14 --> 1540.52] And material goods of this world -[1540.52 --> 1542.82] In your mercy -[1542.82 --> 1545.26] Hear our prayer of confession -[1545.26 --> 1566.04] Lord -[1566.04 --> 1568.66] Forgive us for the gods we have created -[1568.66 --> 1571.92] Grant us the humility to bow before You -[1571.92 --> 1573.68] The ruler of all the nations -[1573.68 --> 1576.28] So that we may be your loyal servants -[1576.28 --> 1577.28] In your kingdom -[1577.28 --> 1579.66] Remind us of your grace -[1579.66 --> 1580.96] Through your Son -[1580.96 --> 1582.26] The King of Kings -[1582.26 --> 1583.46] And the Lord of Lords -[1583.46 --> 1584.50] Amen -[1584.50 --> 1588.28] Let's pray for the Lord of Us -[1588.28 --> 1589.28] Amen. -[1618.28 --> 1641.28] Only by grace can we enter, only by grace can we stand, not by our human endeavor, but by the blood of the Lamb. -[1641.28 --> 1663.94] Into your presence you call us, you call us to come, into your presence you draw us, and now by your grace we come. -[1663.94 --> 1670.94] Now by your grace we come. -[1670.94 --> 1682.94] Lord, if you mark our transgressions, who was dead? -[1682.94 --> 1694.94] Thanks to your grace we are cleansed by the blood of the Lamb. -[1694.94 --> 1706.94] Lord, if you mark our transgressions, who was dead? -[1706.94 --> 1719.94] Thanks to your grace we are cleansed by the blood of the Lamb. -[1719.94 --> 1746.94] Only by grace can we enter, only by grace can we stand, not by our human endeavor, but by the blood of the Lamb. -[1746.94 --> 1757.94] Into your presence you call us, you call us to come. -[1758.94 --> 1768.94] Into your presence you draw us, and now by your grace we come. -[1768.94 --> 1775.94] Now by your grace we come. -[1775.94 --> 1778.94] You call us, and now by your grace we come. -[1778.94 --> 1780.94] And now by your grace we come. -[1780.94 --> 1781.44] Thank you. -[1781.44 --> 1789.94] . -[1789.94 --> 1817.94] We praise thee, O God, for the Son of our love. -[1817.94 --> 1825.20] For Jesus who died and is now God of earth. -[1825.62 --> 1828.50] Hallelujah, find the glory. -[1828.88 --> 1831.24] Hallelujah, amen. -[1832.16 --> 1835.18] Hallelujah, find the glory. -[1835.58 --> 1838.38] Revive us again. -[1840.46 --> 1846.42] Praise thee, O God, for the Spirit of life. -[1846.42 --> 1852.92] Who has shown us our Savior and scattered our eyes. -[1853.44 --> 1856.18] Hallelujah, find the glory. -[1856.68 --> 1858.98] Hallelujah, amen. -[1859.86 --> 1862.70] Hallelujah, find the glory. -[1863.24 --> 1865.42] Revive us again. -[1865.42 --> 1865.84] Amen. -[1867.84 --> 1874.06] Oh, glory and praise to the Lamb that was slain. -[1874.42 --> 1880.24] Who has borne all our sins and has spent every stain. -[1880.70 --> 1883.52] Hallelujah, find the glory. -[1883.94 --> 1886.18] Hallelujah, amen. -[1886.18 --> 1890.00] Hallelujah, find the glory. -[1890.36 --> 1892.68] Revive us again. -[1895.18 --> 1897.94] Revive us again. -[1897.94 --> 1901.28] Fill this heart with my love. -[1901.68 --> 1907.68] Each soul be repindled with fire from the earth. -[1907.68 --> 1910.40] Hallelujah, find the glory. -[1910.40 --> 1913.62] Hallelujah, amen. -[1914.38 --> 1917.40] Hallelujah, find the glory. -[1918.06 --> 1920.12] Revive us again. -[1921.12 --> 1923.82] Hallelujah, find the glory. -[1924.28 --> 1926.56] Hallelujah, amen. -[1927.42 --> 1930.42] Hallelujah, find the glory. -[1930.42 --> 1934.70] Revive us again -[1960.42 --> 1973.06] Hello, my name is Allison and I am one of the deacons here at Langley Emanuel. -[1973.78 --> 1985.98] This morning, the offerings, the first one, as normal, is for the LACRC, our own church ministry and missions budget. -[1985.98 --> 1993.32] The second one, the special offering today, is for Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries. -[1993.82 --> 1995.78] And let me just read what they say. -[1996.44 --> 2002.14] Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries equips the church to support mental health and well-being. -[2003.12 --> 2008.76] They provide resources that meaningfully engage the topics of faith and mental health. -[2008.76 --> 2020.10] Our content is developed in collaboration with theologians, mental health professionals, and people with lived experience of mental health challenges. -[2020.78 --> 2033.18] These resources prepare communities of faith around the world to raise awareness, reduce stigma, support mental health, and promote mental well-being. -[2033.18 --> 2038.74] So these two things are very important in our community. -[2039.32 --> 2054.64] So please give as the Lord has prospered you, either online or through the offerings in the envelopes in the chairs in front of you, or by check. -[2055.10 --> 2056.40] Thank you very much. -[2056.40 --> 2086.38] Thank you. -[2086.40 --> 2116.38] Thank you. -[2116.38 --> 2118.38] Thank you. -[2118.38 --> 2122.38] Thank you. -[2122.48 --> 2124.38] Thank you. -[2124.38 --> 2128.38] Thank you. -[2128.38 --> 2135.78] Open the eyes of my heart, Lord -[2135.78 --> 2139.28] Open the eyes of my heart -[2139.28 --> 2142.62] I want to see you -[2142.62 --> 2147.38] I want to see you -[2147.38 --> 2153.88] Open the eyes of my heart, Lord -[2153.88 --> 2157.28] Open the eyes of my heart -[2157.28 --> 2161.28] I want to see you -[2161.28 --> 2166.28] I want to see you -[2166.28 --> 2171.28] See you high and lifted up -[2171.28 --> 2176.28] Shining in the light of your glory -[2176.28 --> 2179.28] Pour out your power and love -[2179.28 --> 2184.28] As we sing holy, holy, holy -[2184.28 --> 2188.28] Holy, holy, holy -[2188.28 --> 2193.28] Holy, holy, holy -[2193.28 --> 2197.28] Holy, holy, holy -[2197.28 --> 2202.28] Holy, holy, holy -[2202.28 --> 2209.36] Holy, holy, holy -[2209.36 --> 2213.94] Holy, holy, holy -[2213.94 --> 2218.42] Holy, holy, holy -[2218.42 --> 2221.94] I want to see you -[2223.66 --> 2227.58] Holy, holy, holy -[2227.58 --> 2232.18] Holy, holy, holy -[2232.18 --> 2236.78] Holy, holy, holy -[2236.78 --> 2240.48] I want to see you -[2251.82 --> 2255.26] I would love to invite all of the kids to come up front right now. -[2255.26 --> 2265.14] If you are three years old or up to kindergarten or maybe a little bit older than that or maybe a lot older than that and you want to come up front, you are welcome to do so right now. -[2272.66 --> 2274.38] Good morning, everyone. -[2274.86 --> 2275.68] Do you want to come sit? -[2276.08 --> 2277.02] Do you want to come sit right here? -[2277.62 --> 2278.80] How are you all doing? -[2279.92 --> 2281.78] Did you get outside in the rain this weekend? -[2283.00 --> 2284.20] You lost a tooth. -[2285.26 --> 2286.80] You lost a tooth too? -[2287.02 --> 2288.12] Well, where did you lose it? -[2288.24 --> 2289.20] In the New York. -[2289.68 --> 2291.46] Oh, look at that. -[2291.52 --> 2292.84] There's so many holes in your mouths. -[2295.68 --> 2296.12] Yeah? -[2297.76 --> 2298.72] Oh, you did too? -[2298.90 --> 2299.06] Yeah? -[2299.06 --> 2300.42] I don't know. -[2304.02 --> 2306.88] Oh, yeah? -[2306.88 --> 2311.62] This will just take a second. -[2314.54 --> 2315.42] Very cool. -[2316.58 --> 2316.94] Yeah? -[2317.22 --> 2319.72] Well, let's talk more about this in the back room. -[2319.76 --> 2320.28] What do you think? -[2320.54 --> 2323.86] I'm sure today's lesson has all to do with losing teeth. -[2325.86 --> 2326.26] No? -[2326.26 --> 2328.40] I'm wondering what to do. -[2328.40 --> 2328.44] I'm wondering what to do. -[2328.44 --> 2328.52] I'm wondering what to do. -[2328.52 --> 2329.30] I'm wondering what to do. -[2329.30 --> 2330.82] What we're going to do. -[2331.16 --> 2332.60] Okay, one more comment. -[2332.78 --> 2332.92] Yep? -[2333.68 --> 2335.98] It's my baby's birthday today. -[2335.98 --> 2337.30] It's your baby's birthday today. -[2337.80 --> 2339.44] It's me 22. -[2340.02 --> 2341.56] She's two years old. -[2342.02 --> 2343.76] Wow, that is so exciting. -[2344.68 --> 2346.20] We should celebrate. -[2346.60 --> 2347.02] We should celebrate. -[2347.80 --> 2348.10] Yeah? -[2348.30 --> 2349.08] That's great. -[2349.58 --> 2354.18] What we're going to do now is we'll celebrate a children's worship time and we'll pray before -[2354.18 --> 2355.46] we go and then we'll do the blessing. -[2355.56 --> 2356.20] Does that sound good? -[2356.64 --> 2356.86] Yeah? -[2357.20 --> 2357.46] All right. -[2357.50 --> 2359.76] Let's pray and then we'll do the blessing together. -[2359.84 --> 2360.02] Deal? -[2360.74 --> 2360.96] All right. -[2360.98 --> 2362.28] Let's fold our hands, close our eyes, and we're going to pray. -[2362.34 --> 2362.64] We're going to pray. -[2362.70 --> 2363.08] We're going to pray. -[2363.18 --> 2363.56] We're going to pray. -[2363.90 --> 2365.42] Dear God, thank you so much for this day. -[2365.74 --> 2368.76] Thank you that we could come to church today, that we could go to children's worship time, -[2368.82 --> 2369.98] that we could learn more about you. -[2370.38 --> 2374.50] Be with us now as we go to children's worship time, as the adults stay here and open up -[2374.50 --> 2374.94] the Bible. -[2375.38 --> 2377.10] Help us learn what it means to follow you. -[2377.14 --> 2377.50] In your name. -[2377.80 --> 2378.00] Amen. -[2378.44 --> 2379.98] Okay, before we go, let's stand up. -[2380.02 --> 2380.98] No, come back, come back, come back. -[2380.98 --> 2385.64] We're going to all stand up and we're going to say really loudly, the Lord be with you. -[2385.70 --> 2385.98] Okay? -[2386.08 --> 2386.76] On the count of three. -[2386.84 --> 2387.60] Are you ready, kids? -[2387.84 --> 2389.34] One, two, three. -[2389.52 --> 2391.92] The Lord be with you. -[2392.22 --> 2394.04] And also with you. -[2410.98 --> 2439.40] Good morning. -[2439.40 --> 2441.70] My name is Clary Closteroff. -[2441.84 --> 2445.04] I am an elder here at Emmanuel. -[2445.70 --> 2451.18] And I'm going to lead us or walk us through our congregational prayer. -[2452.06 --> 2455.40] But before I do that, I have another announcement. -[2455.40 --> 2465.52] On Tuesday, September the 16th, we are going to be having a special general meeting on calling -[2465.52 --> 2468.86] Pastor Kevin Lobert as a minister of the word. -[2470.06 --> 2479.40] This Thursday, members over the age of 18 are going to receive a copy of the agenda for -[2479.40 --> 2481.04] that evening. -[2481.04 --> 2490.96] The copy that you receive is going to have the motion and the proposed job description. -[2491.96 --> 2501.20] We encourage everyone to prayerfully prepare and reflect on our past discussions, town halls, -[2501.48 --> 2503.10] and information packages. -[2503.10 --> 2512.20] If you have any questions, please talk with any members of admin council or an elder. -[2512.98 --> 2524.82] Keep your eyes on your inbox for the email this coming Thursday, August 21, around 4 p.m. -[2524.82 --> 2533.78] And of course, if you would like to have a paper copy, you're more than welcome to. -[2534.26 --> 2541.18] Just call the office or come and ask the office for a copy and they'll happily provide one for you. -[2541.18 --> 2553.68] So, now let's kind of switch gears and come before our maker in prayer. -[2553.68 --> 2568.56] Our most merciful and gracious Father in heaven, we want to say thank you to you for another day. -[2568.56 --> 2578.90] And we especially want to thank you, Lord, that we begin our work week by putting away our work, -[2579.64 --> 2586.16] putting away our calendars and schedules and resting. -[2586.16 --> 2594.74] And we begin this day of rest with the opportunity to corporately gather together, -[2595.24 --> 2604.34] sing praises to you, reflect on the week, seek pardon and confession, -[2604.34 --> 2608.08] and be fed from your word. -[2608.94 --> 2611.90] Thank you for all of this. -[2612.44 --> 2614.20] Thank you that it's so easy. -[2614.96 --> 2619.02] We do not have to face a particular direction. -[2619.02 --> 2629.58] We do not have to go through mandated and ordered phrases. -[2630.38 --> 2636.20] But we come to you with our hearts, which is what you most want from us. -[2636.84 --> 2640.08] And we can worship you. -[2641.00 --> 2641.90] Thank you for this. -[2641.90 --> 2648.68] And forgive us, Lord, when I think even for some of us olders in the room, -[2648.90 --> 2651.04] this can become quite a mechanical practice. -[2651.54 --> 2656.04] And we might even not engage with it. -[2656.76 --> 2659.84] Help us to have hearts that are soft and pliable -[2659.84 --> 2668.16] and wanting your spirit and your word to be at work in us. -[2669.44 --> 2672.14] This morning, Lord, for our church family prayer, -[2672.80 --> 2677.80] I think one of the bigger things for the planet that we want to remember -[2677.80 --> 2680.52] is the war in Ukraine. -[2682.76 --> 2688.78] Mr. Putin and Mr. Trump met, I think, on Friday. -[2688.78 --> 2691.12] It's the first time since this war began -[2691.12 --> 2694.96] where it looks like serious people are talking about peace. -[2695.10 --> 2697.16] We ask that this may actually be the case -[2697.16 --> 2702.36] and that you can bring peace to the devastation -[2702.36 --> 2710.26] that has been unleashed with all of our engineering imagination -[2710.26 --> 2711.88] and capacity and capability. -[2714.76 --> 2717.00] Of course, this is not the only place in the world -[2717.00 --> 2718.12] where there is violence, Lord, -[2718.12 --> 2721.44] but we ask that peace may come. -[2723.00 --> 2725.20] Now, looking more locally, -[2725.92 --> 2729.38] Father, we want to ask that you continue to bring healing -[2729.38 --> 2732.80] to Pastor Abelino -[2732.80 --> 2735.60] as his hand heals -[2735.60 --> 2738.48] and time is of the essence for surgery. -[2738.48 --> 2741.78] We ask that he may be healed -[2741.78 --> 2751.94] and that he may continue to use his gifts and talents -[2751.94 --> 2754.18] to further your kingdom in his community. -[2754.18 --> 2760.52] We want to lift up Doug Kendon, the father of Elise Wagener, -[2760.86 --> 2763.64] as he continues dealing with cancer. -[2765.78 --> 2771.26] And we ask or we want to give thanks that John Kuypers is okay. -[2771.50 --> 2779.00] He was in some distress recently because of some of his medications reacting poorly with each other, -[2779.00 --> 2780.54] but now he's on the mend. -[2780.54 --> 2787.02] Thank you for so many skilled people who are able to focus their attention on him. -[2788.32 --> 2795.10] Father, we ask for continued safety for fire and rescue services right here in Langley -[2795.10 --> 2801.30] as they are, I think, finishing off putting out a fire in a new construction building. -[2801.30 --> 2805.52] Thank you that so far there have been no reported injuries, -[2805.68 --> 2807.68] but we ask for that continued blessing. -[2810.02 --> 2811.36] We give you thanks, Lord, too, -[2811.52 --> 2815.94] that we are in the middle or in the back end of the middle of summer -[2815.94 --> 2821.90] and many of us have a chance for a change of pace -[2821.90 --> 2825.80] and for getting together with friends and family. -[2827.48 --> 2828.98] We thank you for all of this, Lord, -[2828.98 --> 2835.30] and we are reminded that we live in a very, very wealthy part of the world. -[2836.18 --> 2841.10] We ask that all of the additional traveling and vacationing that we can do, -[2841.78 --> 2845.24] that in these things we can remember materially -[2845.24 --> 2849.58] the gifts that we have that enable this -[2849.58 --> 2852.84] and help us, too, to remember -[2852.84 --> 2855.92] that with material blessings, -[2855.92 --> 2862.36] there are greater expectations that you have of us for our own generosity. -[2863.04 --> 2864.34] And we ask, too, -[2865.62 --> 2866.82] that we can remember -[2866.82 --> 2869.72] not to coast. -[2870.98 --> 2872.20] As we look through Scripture, -[2872.38 --> 2874.78] we see one of the big risks -[2874.78 --> 2876.74] for people who love you -[2876.74 --> 2878.62] is that when life becomes easy, -[2879.32 --> 2880.50] we tend to think -[2880.50 --> 2883.16] it's the work of our own hands. -[2883.16 --> 2885.38] So help us to be mindful of that -[2885.38 --> 2889.00] and to stay focused on you. -[2894.52 --> 2895.28] Thank you, Lord, -[2895.64 --> 2896.92] that here in our congregation -[2896.92 --> 2899.70] we've had a number of weddings lately. -[2900.14 --> 2902.22] We think of Jared Alkema, -[2902.92 --> 2903.70] Ava Griffune, -[2904.48 --> 2905.74] and Willem Casey, -[2906.06 --> 2906.84] and Kaylee Spohr, -[2906.92 --> 2909.18] who have been married in the last couple weeks. -[2909.18 --> 2911.48] And we want to give you -[2911.48 --> 2914.72] maybe a special offering of gratitude -[2914.72 --> 2919.56] for the family of Steve and Linda Rook -[2919.56 --> 2922.76] as they've had quite a month. -[2923.32 --> 2924.62] Their daughter, Emily Rook, -[2924.66 --> 2927.52] was married to Matt Siebert in July. -[2928.22 --> 2929.38] Just a couple days ago, -[2929.48 --> 2931.96] Matthew Rook and Bethany Hitchman -[2931.96 --> 2933.40] were married. -[2933.40 --> 2935.24] And Nicole and Matt Woods -[2935.24 --> 2939.06] are now legal guardians for Liam. -[2939.70 --> 2944.76] And this is all tremendous good news. -[2945.30 --> 2946.92] And this past Monday, -[2947.02 --> 2947.98] Steve and Linda celebrated -[2947.98 --> 2949.76] their 35th anniversary. -[2950.02 --> 2951.82] So we thank you, Father, -[2952.00 --> 2957.10] for your steadfastness in their story. -[2957.10 --> 2964.42] And Lord, we know too that here, -[2965.14 --> 2966.52] outside of the things -[2966.52 --> 2968.10] that I just mentioned briefly, -[2968.66 --> 2970.12] we know that in our congregation -[2970.12 --> 2972.96] we have so many other things -[2972.96 --> 2974.72] for which people are very, very grateful. -[2975.34 --> 2977.24] But we also are mindful -[2977.24 --> 2981.72] that there are a lot of unspoken griefs. -[2981.94 --> 2983.68] And we ask that your spirit, -[2984.06 --> 2986.86] especially in our private griefs, -[2986.86 --> 2990.76] that your spirit may continue ministering to us, -[2990.86 --> 2993.48] but that we as a body of believers -[2993.48 --> 2996.86] may seek to be a hand and foot -[2996.86 --> 2999.16] in holding each other up -[2999.16 --> 3002.14] with deeds and with prayers and words. -[3003.82 --> 3004.34] Amen. -[3016.86 --> 3025.62] Good morning, everyone. -[3026.96 --> 3031.80] It is awesome to see some new faces this Sunday. -[3032.80 --> 3034.92] I'm glad you can join us for worship. -[3036.86 --> 3038.76] We're going to be looking at Matthew 21, -[3038.90 --> 3041.10] verses 1 to 17 today in our series, -[3041.20 --> 3041.90] Behold Our King. -[3042.68 --> 3043.76] So I ask you, -[3043.80 --> 3045.40] get out your Bibles or your devices. -[3046.10 --> 3047.84] Get ready as we read out the passage. -[3048.48 --> 3050.62] But as we read out the passage, -[3051.10 --> 3053.22] notice how much of this passage -[3053.22 --> 3055.28] is about Jesus' identity. -[3056.28 --> 3058.04] And I don't mean what his name is. -[3058.86 --> 3060.46] I mean who he is as a whole. -[3061.28 --> 3061.98] Is he a king? -[3062.06 --> 3062.72] Is he a prophet? -[3062.88 --> 3063.56] Is he a priest? -[3063.90 --> 3064.62] Is he more? -[3064.62 --> 3067.40] Pay attention. -[3067.62 --> 3069.22] Because when we see who Jesus is, -[3069.48 --> 3071.46] we get a glimpse at who we are. -[3071.92 --> 3073.58] And so understanding who he is is key. -[3077.48 --> 3078.26] Let us read. -[3078.26 --> 3082.38] As they approached Jerusalem -[3082.38 --> 3084.56] and came to Bethpage, -[3084.88 --> 3085.86] on the Mount of Olives, -[3086.04 --> 3087.78] Jesus sent two disciples, -[3088.54 --> 3089.16] saying to them, -[3089.32 --> 3090.92] Go to the village ahead of you. -[3091.82 --> 3093.92] And at once you will find a donkey tied there -[3093.92 --> 3094.98] with her colt by her. -[3095.68 --> 3097.18] Untie them and bring them to me. -[3097.74 --> 3099.46] If anyone says anything to you, -[3099.60 --> 3101.18] say that the Lord needs them, -[3101.64 --> 3103.30] and he will send them right away. -[3104.36 --> 3105.98] This took place to fulfill -[3105.98 --> 3107.48] what was spoken through the prophet. -[3108.62 --> 3109.84] Say to daughter Zion, -[3110.14 --> 3111.86] See, your king comes to you. -[3112.94 --> 3114.78] Gentle and riding on a donkey, -[3115.04 --> 3117.08] and on a colt the foal of a donkey. -[3117.96 --> 3120.08] The disciple went and did -[3120.08 --> 3121.52] as Jesus had instructed them. -[3121.82 --> 3123.26] They brought the donkey and the colt -[3123.26 --> 3124.66] and placed their cloaks on them -[3124.66 --> 3126.12] for Jesus to sit on. -[3126.94 --> 3128.74] A very large crowd -[3128.74 --> 3130.86] spread their cloaks on the road, -[3131.14 --> 3133.00] while others cut branches from trees -[3133.00 --> 3134.06] and spread them on the road. -[3136.14 --> 3137.78] The crowds that went ahead of him -[3137.78 --> 3139.56] and those that followed shouted, -[3139.68 --> 3141.22] Hosanna to the son of David! -[3141.86 --> 3144.38] Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! -[3145.10 --> 3146.82] Hosanna in the highest heavens! -[3148.76 --> 3150.46] When Jesus entered Jerusalem, -[3150.66 --> 3152.58] the whole city was stirred and asked, -[3152.96 --> 3153.78] Who is this? -[3153.78 --> 3156.32] The crowd answered, -[3156.72 --> 3157.42] This is Jesus, -[3157.60 --> 3158.96] the prophet from Nazareth -[3158.96 --> 3160.24] in Galilee. -[3162.44 --> 3164.12] Jesus entered the temple courts -[3164.12 --> 3165.92] and drove out all who were buying -[3165.92 --> 3167.08] and selling there. -[3167.30 --> 3168.30] He overturned the tables -[3168.30 --> 3169.10] of the money changers -[3169.10 --> 3169.72] and the benches -[3169.72 --> 3170.94] of those selling doves. -[3171.66 --> 3172.36] It is written, -[3172.48 --> 3173.74] he said to them, -[3174.10 --> 3174.98] My house will be called -[3174.98 --> 3175.68] a house of prayer, -[3175.80 --> 3176.70] but you are making it -[3176.70 --> 3177.82] a den of robbers. -[3177.82 --> 3180.50] The blind and the lame -[3180.50 --> 3181.60] came to him at the temple -[3181.60 --> 3182.44] and he healed them. -[3183.14 --> 3184.16] But when the chief priests -[3184.16 --> 3185.14] and the teachers of the law -[3185.14 --> 3186.54] saw the wonderful things he did -[3186.54 --> 3187.44] and the children shouting -[3187.44 --> 3188.36] in the temple courts, -[3188.76 --> 3190.10] Hosanna to the son of David! -[3190.60 --> 3191.60] They were indignant. -[3191.60 --> 3194.68] Do you hear what these children -[3194.68 --> 3195.70] are saying? -[3195.84 --> 3196.72] They asked him. -[3198.02 --> 3199.36] Yes, Jesus replied. -[3199.84 --> 3200.72] Have you never read? -[3201.56 --> 3202.72] From the lips of the children -[3202.72 --> 3204.08] and infants, -[3204.42 --> 3204.96] you, Lord, -[3204.96 --> 3206.48] have called forth your praise. -[3207.34 --> 3208.38] And he left them -[3208.38 --> 3209.70] and went out of the city -[3209.70 --> 3210.32] to Bethany -[3210.32 --> 3211.82] where he spent the night. -[3212.94 --> 3213.82] The word of the Lord. -[3219.82 --> 3220.26] Normally, -[3220.86 --> 3223.62] we keep this passage to Easter. -[3224.70 --> 3225.56] But sometimes, -[3225.68 --> 3226.70] it's good to look at passages -[3226.70 --> 3228.48] without the obvious message -[3228.48 --> 3229.92] that gets associated with them. -[3230.88 --> 3231.36] Sometimes, -[3231.50 --> 3232.56] when we read certain passages -[3232.56 --> 3233.52] with the same light -[3233.52 --> 3234.50] and the same focus, -[3234.96 --> 3236.24] it can cloud our minds -[3236.24 --> 3238.24] to the rest of what's in the passage. -[3239.86 --> 3241.40] Following the triumphal entry, -[3242.08 --> 3243.60] we read Matthew's account -[3243.60 --> 3244.48] of the temple cleansing -[3244.48 --> 3245.64] by Jesus. -[3246.54 --> 3246.82] Now, -[3247.02 --> 3248.44] when I think of the temple cleansing, -[3248.96 --> 3251.00] I think normally of John's account, -[3251.32 --> 3253.00] which is where Jesus fashions a whip -[3253.00 --> 3254.52] and he pushes the animals -[3254.52 --> 3255.02] and the merchants -[3255.02 --> 3256.88] to leave in a more violent fashion -[3256.88 --> 3258.06] than Matthew records. -[3259.44 --> 3259.84] However, -[3260.36 --> 3261.20] Matthew's account -[3261.20 --> 3263.40] highlights some key themes -[3263.40 --> 3264.60] that John's doesn't. -[3265.26 --> 3265.76] And together, -[3265.96 --> 3266.96] the triumphal entry, -[3267.52 --> 3268.76] followed by the temple cleansing, -[3269.28 --> 3271.68] tell us something about our king. -[3271.78 --> 3272.74] It gives us clarity -[3272.74 --> 3274.38] about who he is. -[3275.34 --> 3277.12] But it will also help us see -[3277.12 --> 3280.32] that Jesus is not merely a king. -[3280.98 --> 3282.88] We must behold Jesus -[3282.88 --> 3283.90] as our king, -[3283.90 --> 3285.80] but we cannot behold him -[3285.80 --> 3287.32] as merely a king. -[3288.68 --> 3289.12] Jesus, -[3289.36 --> 3290.58] in this passage we are reading, -[3291.24 --> 3292.34] is not just a man, -[3292.98 --> 3294.66] nor is he just a king. -[3295.30 --> 3295.98] And we get to see -[3295.98 --> 3297.54] how Matthew is showing us -[3297.54 --> 3299.50] that Jesus is so much more -[3299.50 --> 3300.70] than we can imagine. -[3301.18 --> 3303.32] And the fact that he is so much more -[3303.32 --> 3303.98] than we can imagine -[3303.98 --> 3304.84] is part of the reason -[3304.84 --> 3306.20] it's sometimes hard -[3306.20 --> 3307.36] to grasp him at all. -[3307.36 --> 3310.26] He's not like everyone else -[3310.26 --> 3310.74] in the Bible -[3310.74 --> 3312.00] that plays a role, -[3312.90 --> 3314.26] like David the king, -[3314.80 --> 3315.88] Moses the prophet, -[3316.40 --> 3317.42] Aaron the priest. -[3318.22 --> 3320.32] These men played their parts well. -[3321.34 --> 3322.94] They played their characters well. -[3323.64 --> 3325.48] But Jesus does not look like David, -[3326.08 --> 3327.30] though, as we will read, -[3327.40 --> 3328.66] he is called the son of David -[3328.66 --> 3330.12] and is prophesied -[3330.12 --> 3331.96] to be the son of David -[3331.96 --> 3333.58] who would reign forever -[3333.58 --> 3334.16] on the throne. -[3334.16 --> 3335.82] But when we see him -[3335.82 --> 3336.74] perform miracles -[3336.74 --> 3338.16] and preach God -[3338.16 --> 3339.04] to God's people -[3339.04 --> 3340.66] and deal with their stubbornness -[3340.66 --> 3341.52] when they go, -[3341.70 --> 3342.80] and when he goes away -[3342.80 --> 3343.78] for periods of time -[3343.78 --> 3344.80] to talk with his father, -[3345.56 --> 3347.12] and even in his transfiguration, -[3347.82 --> 3348.70] we see glimpses -[3348.70 --> 3349.70] of Moses the prophet. -[3351.06 --> 3351.94] And we even see -[3351.94 --> 3353.38] a little bit of Aaron the priest -[3353.38 --> 3354.54] when Jesus cleanses -[3354.54 --> 3355.42] the temple of sin -[3355.42 --> 3356.48] and impurity -[3356.48 --> 3357.94] on the part of the merchants -[3357.94 --> 3358.60] and the market. -[3360.94 --> 3362.36] The duty of the priest -[3362.36 --> 3363.30] is to consecrate -[3363.30 --> 3364.48] and cleanse the temple -[3364.48 --> 3365.42] and its implements -[3365.42 --> 3367.56] and to keep them holy. -[3368.82 --> 3370.42] But even knowing this, -[3370.60 --> 3371.52] when we look at Jesus, -[3371.70 --> 3373.50] we are still filled with wonder -[3373.50 --> 3375.18] and we can do nothing -[3375.18 --> 3376.10] but behold him. -[3377.52 --> 3378.50] So we need to see -[3378.50 --> 3379.92] what Matthew is pointing out to us. -[3380.54 --> 3381.30] And so we're going to trace -[3381.30 --> 3381.94] through the passages -[3381.94 --> 3383.10] and a few others -[3383.10 --> 3385.74] to see what Christ being king, -[3386.26 --> 3387.14] prophet, and priest -[3387.14 --> 3388.04] means to us. -[3388.04 --> 3392.88] So as I mentioned, -[3392.96 --> 3393.48] we're going to go through -[3393.48 --> 3394.12] those passages. -[3394.48 --> 3395.36] And we're going to start -[3395.36 --> 3397.12] with him being king. -[3398.32 --> 3399.80] We see Jesus as king -[3399.80 --> 3400.92] in the triumphal entry -[3400.92 --> 3401.94] as we cover -[3401.94 --> 3403.06] every Easter service -[3403.06 --> 3404.18] in verses 1 to 11. -[3405.06 --> 3406.38] These passages start out -[3406.38 --> 3407.26] with Jesus commanding -[3407.26 --> 3408.10] two of his disciples -[3408.10 --> 3409.54] to go to a specific house -[3409.54 --> 3410.44] and grab a donkey -[3410.44 --> 3411.22] and it's full -[3411.22 --> 3412.62] because the Lord -[3412.62 --> 3413.50] has need of it. -[3414.16 --> 3415.08] And when he arrives -[3415.08 --> 3416.46] to ride in Jerusalem, -[3416.46 --> 3417.50] there is a crowd -[3417.50 --> 3418.24] that is formed -[3418.24 --> 3419.64] and people are laying down -[3419.64 --> 3420.94] their cloaks and branches -[3420.94 --> 3422.62] for him to ride on. -[3423.36 --> 3424.50] As Matthew shows, -[3424.64 --> 3426.58] this fulfills the prophecy -[3426.58 --> 3427.48] in chapter 9 -[3427.48 --> 3428.86] and verse 9 of Zechariah. -[3429.66 --> 3430.64] The same prophecy -[3430.64 --> 3431.84] that states this king -[3431.84 --> 3433.00] would rule to the ends -[3433.00 --> 3433.52] of the earth -[3433.52 --> 3434.74] and bring peace -[3434.74 --> 3435.42] to the nations -[3435.42 --> 3436.36] and salvation -[3436.36 --> 3437.20] and righteousness. -[3438.42 --> 3440.80] The way Jesus enters Jerusalem -[3440.80 --> 3442.14] is very similar -[3442.14 --> 3444.28] to the way conquering emperors -[3444.28 --> 3445.26] would arrive in a city -[3445.26 --> 3445.96] when they won. -[3446.46 --> 3447.94] When they entered, -[3448.10 --> 3448.74] they would immediately -[3448.74 --> 3449.54] go to the temple -[3449.54 --> 3450.24] as stated -[3450.24 --> 3451.90] because their God -[3451.90 --> 3452.62] was the reason -[3452.62 --> 3453.68] that they were successful -[3453.68 --> 3455.02] and they would desecrate -[3455.02 --> 3455.94] the sanctuaries -[3455.94 --> 3456.72] of the God -[3456.72 --> 3457.50] that the people -[3457.50 --> 3458.18] that they conquered. -[3459.64 --> 3460.74] Israel had seen -[3460.74 --> 3461.82] this happen a lot -[3461.82 --> 3462.68] in its history. -[3463.54 --> 3464.84] In 167 BC, -[3465.02 --> 3466.30] Antiochus Epiphanes -[3466.30 --> 3467.68] conquered Jerusalem -[3467.68 --> 3469.04] and sacrificed a pig -[3469.04 --> 3469.66] on the altar -[3469.66 --> 3470.80] and raised a banner -[3470.80 --> 3471.42] to Zeus -[3471.42 --> 3472.60] in that very temple. -[3472.60 --> 3474.72] in 63 BC, -[3475.08 --> 3476.60] General Pompey of Rome -[3476.60 --> 3477.52] conquered Jerusalem -[3477.52 --> 3478.52] and entered -[3478.52 --> 3480.02] the Holy of Holies -[3480.02 --> 3481.40] where no man -[3481.40 --> 3482.38] should enter and live -[3482.38 --> 3483.74] and yet he lived -[3483.74 --> 3484.58] to tell the tale. -[3486.04 --> 3487.14] And in 70 AD, -[3487.70 --> 3488.94] General Titus of Rome -[3488.94 --> 3490.16] sieged Jerusalem -[3490.16 --> 3491.40] and destroyed the temple -[3491.40 --> 3492.98] until this current day. -[3492.98 --> 3495.52] But those emperors -[3495.52 --> 3496.10] and generals -[3496.10 --> 3497.34] would enter -[3497.34 --> 3498.14] on white horses -[3498.14 --> 3499.04] with pride -[3499.04 --> 3499.78] and power -[3499.78 --> 3501.00] and grandeur. -[3501.90 --> 3502.90] And Jesus is stated -[3502.90 --> 3503.94] to enter on a donkey -[3503.94 --> 3505.12] and is described -[3505.12 --> 3505.70] as gentle -[3505.70 --> 3506.38] and humble. -[3507.86 --> 3508.88] And Jesus doesn't enter -[3508.88 --> 3509.74] to desecrate -[3509.74 --> 3510.32] the temple -[3510.32 --> 3512.04] of his father. -[3512.60 --> 3512.90] Rather, -[3512.98 --> 3513.82] he cleanses it. -[3514.46 --> 3515.70] Or in another way -[3515.70 --> 3516.50] we can look at it, -[3516.64 --> 3516.96] the temple -[3516.96 --> 3518.40] is already desecrated -[3518.40 --> 3518.80] because, -[3519.06 --> 3519.72] as we will read, -[3519.72 --> 3520.54] they're worshipping -[3520.54 --> 3521.32] something else -[3521.32 --> 3522.26] in his temple. -[3523.84 --> 3524.70] They're worshipping -[3524.70 --> 3526.06] money and legalism -[3526.06 --> 3527.92] in their merchant system -[3527.92 --> 3529.18] to supply sacrifices -[3529.18 --> 3529.64] to people -[3529.64 --> 3530.88] to satisfy God -[3530.88 --> 3531.96] by legally obeying -[3531.96 --> 3532.40] the law -[3532.40 --> 3535.28] instead of obeying God -[3535.28 --> 3536.36] in the way he desired -[3536.36 --> 3537.36] in Micah 6.8. -[3538.06 --> 3538.88] Seek justice, -[3539.10 --> 3539.62] love mercy, -[3539.82 --> 3540.50] and walk humbly -[3540.50 --> 3541.10] with your God. -[3542.20 --> 3543.26] We also see him -[3543.26 --> 3543.84] as king -[3543.84 --> 3544.82] when he's riding in -[3544.82 --> 3545.40] and the crowds -[3545.40 --> 3546.78] are shouting -[3546.78 --> 3547.40] Hosanna -[3547.40 --> 3548.44] to the Son of David. -[3548.96 --> 3549.42] And again, -[3549.48 --> 3549.94] he's called -[3549.94 --> 3550.98] Son of David -[3550.98 --> 3551.70] by the children -[3551.70 --> 3552.64] quoting the prophetic -[3552.64 --> 3553.24] Psalms -[3553.24 --> 3554.56] when he's in the temple -[3554.56 --> 3555.34] in verse 15. -[3556.30 --> 3557.16] The Son of David -[3557.16 --> 3558.46] throughout the Old Testament -[3558.46 --> 3559.54] in the Psalms -[3559.54 --> 3560.48] and the prophets -[3560.48 --> 3561.76] was the son -[3561.76 --> 3562.66] who would succeed -[3562.66 --> 3563.82] David as king -[3563.82 --> 3564.82] and who would have -[3564.82 --> 3565.28] the kingdom -[3565.28 --> 3566.36] that would never end. -[3567.36 --> 3568.30] We see this idea -[3568.30 --> 3569.96] start by God -[3569.96 --> 3570.64] in God's covenant -[3570.64 --> 3571.46] with David -[3571.46 --> 3574.42] in 2 Samuel 7, -[3574.54 --> 3575.72] 12-16. -[3576.86 --> 3577.98] The Lord declares -[3577.98 --> 3578.46] to you -[3578.46 --> 3579.44] that the Lord himself -[3579.44 --> 3580.06] will establish -[3580.06 --> 3580.84] a house for you. -[3581.32 --> 3581.98] When your days -[3581.98 --> 3582.36] are over -[3582.36 --> 3582.94] and you rest -[3582.94 --> 3583.78] with your ancestors, -[3584.28 --> 3585.06] I will raise up -[3585.06 --> 3585.56] your offspring -[3585.56 --> 3586.54] to succeed you, -[3587.16 --> 3588.28] your own flesh and blood -[3588.28 --> 3589.08] and I will establish -[3589.08 --> 3589.58] his kingdom. -[3590.48 --> 3591.36] He is the one -[3591.36 --> 3591.82] who will build -[3591.82 --> 3592.90] a house for my name -[3592.90 --> 3594.12] and I will establish -[3594.12 --> 3594.64] the throne -[3594.64 --> 3595.58] of his kingdom forever. -[3596.16 --> 3597.32] I will be his father -[3597.32 --> 3598.60] and he will be my son. -[3599.38 --> 3600.34] When he does wrong, -[3600.42 --> 3601.06] I will punish him -[3601.06 --> 3601.62] with the rod -[3601.62 --> 3602.54] wielded by men -[3602.54 --> 3603.56] and with floggings -[3603.56 --> 3604.86] afflicted by human hands. -[3604.86 --> 3606.56] But my love -[3606.56 --> 3607.38] will never be taken -[3607.38 --> 3608.02] away from him -[3608.02 --> 3609.42] as I took it away -[3609.42 --> 3609.90] from Saul. -[3610.98 --> 3611.66] When I removed -[3611.66 --> 3612.42] from before you, -[3612.50 --> 3613.38] your house and your kingdom -[3613.38 --> 3614.16] will endure forever -[3614.16 --> 3614.70] before me -[3614.70 --> 3615.66] and your throne -[3615.66 --> 3616.42] will be established -[3616.42 --> 3616.94] forever. -[3619.02 --> 3619.84] God stated -[3619.84 --> 3620.56] that the future -[3620.56 --> 3621.46] descendants of David -[3621.46 --> 3622.38] would be king forever -[3622.38 --> 3623.30] and that he would have -[3623.30 --> 3624.66] a father-son relationship -[3624.66 --> 3626.32] with God himself -[3626.32 --> 3628.40] and that he would be -[3628.40 --> 3629.50] inflicted by human -[3629.50 --> 3630.16] punishments -[3630.16 --> 3631.54] for his sins. -[3632.16 --> 3632.52] Now, -[3633.04 --> 3633.30] Jesus -[3633.30 --> 3634.44] doesn't sin, -[3635.08 --> 3636.46] but he does -[3636.46 --> 3637.62] take our sins -[3637.62 --> 3638.38] and is punished -[3638.38 --> 3640.48] as if he did. -[3641.98 --> 3643.58] He took those punishments -[3643.58 --> 3644.66] from men -[3644.66 --> 3646.38] and despite that punishment, -[3646.56 --> 3647.12] God's love -[3647.12 --> 3648.36] never departed -[3648.36 --> 3648.84] from him. -[3650.02 --> 3650.62] This king -[3650.62 --> 3651.52] is the one -[3651.52 --> 3652.98] they see in Jesus, -[3653.60 --> 3654.60] the one that would -[3654.60 --> 3655.50] end Israel's -[3655.50 --> 3656.62] constant cycle -[3656.62 --> 3657.48] of defeats -[3657.48 --> 3659.70] and bring with him -[3659.70 --> 3660.26] salvation -[3660.26 --> 3661.06] and righteousness -[3661.06 --> 3661.88] and peace. -[3663.30 --> 3664.42] Jesus is the true -[3664.42 --> 3665.30] and better king. -[3666.78 --> 3667.22] Now, -[3667.26 --> 3667.60] let's look at -[3667.60 --> 3668.52] Jesus' prophet. -[3669.72 --> 3670.58] At the beginning, -[3670.94 --> 3671.62] we see Jesus -[3671.62 --> 3672.66] in verse 1 to 3 -[3672.66 --> 3673.40] where Jesus tells -[3673.40 --> 3674.34] the disciples again -[3674.34 --> 3675.76] to grab the donkey -[3675.76 --> 3676.66] and the foal -[3676.66 --> 3677.16] from a man. -[3677.90 --> 3678.78] He also tells them -[3678.78 --> 3679.64] that when they say -[3679.64 --> 3680.54] the Lord needs it, -[3680.86 --> 3681.58] the owner will give it -[3681.58 --> 3681.84] to them. -[3683.00 --> 3683.66] Jesus is able -[3683.66 --> 3684.14] to tell them -[3684.14 --> 3684.76] this will occur -[3684.76 --> 3686.40] because of divine knowledge, -[3687.08 --> 3689.16] because he is a prophet -[3689.16 --> 3690.26] and he knows -[3690.26 --> 3690.76] God's will -[3690.76 --> 3691.32] for the moment -[3691.32 --> 3692.58] and that it will happen -[3692.58 --> 3693.86] according to the prophecy -[3693.86 --> 3695.06] and God's will. -[3696.00 --> 3696.46] Again, -[3696.68 --> 3698.04] like the son of David -[3698.04 --> 3698.46] comment, -[3698.92 --> 3699.48] the crowds -[3699.48 --> 3700.00] at the end -[3700.00 --> 3701.04] of the triumphal entry -[3701.04 --> 3704.44] see him -[3704.44 --> 3705.28] and stir -[3705.28 --> 3705.70] and ask, -[3705.84 --> 3706.62] who is this? -[3707.72 --> 3708.96] And the others answer, -[3709.32 --> 3710.14] this is Jesus, -[3710.62 --> 3711.26] the prophet -[3711.26 --> 3712.32] from Nazareth -[3712.32 --> 3713.08] in Galilee. -[3714.12 --> 3714.96] These people -[3714.96 --> 3716.68] see what he is. -[3716.68 --> 3718.00] They see him -[3718.00 --> 3718.76] teach from the law -[3718.76 --> 3719.46] with authority -[3719.46 --> 3720.62] the ways -[3720.62 --> 3722.66] people are befuddled by. -[3723.26 --> 3723.94] They see him -[3723.94 --> 3724.72] perform signs -[3724.72 --> 3725.38] and wonders -[3725.38 --> 3726.32] just like Moses, -[3726.54 --> 3727.00] Elijah, -[3727.20 --> 3727.70] Elisha, -[3728.08 --> 3729.24] even healing the sick, -[3729.36 --> 3729.70] the mute, -[3729.80 --> 3730.26] the blind, -[3730.34 --> 3731.00] and the crippled. -[3731.64 --> 3732.52] They see him -[3732.52 --> 3733.22] as prophet -[3733.22 --> 3734.40] and know -[3734.40 --> 3735.24] they are confronted -[3735.24 --> 3735.70] with him -[3735.70 --> 3736.48] and now they are -[3736.48 --> 3737.24] confronted with him -[3737.24 --> 3737.92] as a king -[3737.92 --> 3739.66] and they're confused. -[3741.22 --> 3741.96] Why are they -[3741.96 --> 3742.76] confused though? -[3743.96 --> 3744.94] They're confused -[3744.94 --> 3745.62] because they have -[3745.62 --> 3746.62] simply never -[3746.62 --> 3747.42] seen this. -[3748.34 --> 3749.16] In Israel's past -[3749.16 --> 3749.66] there have been -[3749.66 --> 3750.60] prophets who lead -[3750.60 --> 3752.14] and kings who prophesy -[3752.14 --> 3753.00] and even prophets -[3753.00 --> 3753.86] who do priestly work -[3753.86 --> 3755.18] and priests who prophesy -[3755.18 --> 3756.98] but there has never -[3756.98 --> 3757.84] been a king -[3757.84 --> 3758.82] who was also -[3758.82 --> 3759.46] a prophet. -[3761.36 --> 3761.62] Jesus -[3761.62 --> 3762.78] is undeniably -[3762.78 --> 3763.28] presented -[3763.28 --> 3764.36] and witnessed -[3764.36 --> 3765.48] as both -[3765.48 --> 3766.50] in this passage -[3766.50 --> 3768.40] and in John's -[3768.40 --> 3768.90] account of the -[3768.90 --> 3769.48] temple cleansing -[3769.48 --> 3770.60] in chapter 2 -[3770.60 --> 3771.56] 13 to 17 -[3771.56 --> 3772.58] Jesus shows -[3772.58 --> 3773.94] his prophetic work -[3773.94 --> 3775.10] when he's challenged -[3775.10 --> 3775.64] by the Jews -[3775.64 --> 3776.58] to perform a sign -[3776.58 --> 3777.86] something which -[3777.86 --> 3778.64] would be required -[3778.64 --> 3779.36] of an Old Testament -[3779.36 --> 3779.80] prophet. -[3781.16 --> 3782.34] The sign that Jesus -[3782.34 --> 3783.12] offers is the -[3783.12 --> 3784.06] destruction and the -[3784.06 --> 3784.78] rebuilding of the -[3784.78 --> 3785.78] temple in three days. -[3786.58 --> 3787.28] He means his -[3787.28 --> 3788.06] actual body -[3788.06 --> 3789.90] and Jesus -[3789.90 --> 3791.18] accurately performs -[3791.18 --> 3792.60] this sign -[3792.60 --> 3794.28] when he dies -[3794.28 --> 3794.92] on the cross -[3794.92 --> 3796.16] and resurrects. -[3797.06 --> 3797.84] Jesus is the -[3797.84 --> 3798.68] true and better -[3798.68 --> 3799.10] prophet. -[3800.46 --> 3800.90] And finally -[3800.90 --> 3801.46] let us look -[3801.46 --> 3801.92] how Jesus -[3801.92 --> 3803.04] is priest. -[3804.18 --> 3804.78] The priest -[3804.78 --> 3805.44] had a very -[3805.44 --> 3807.20] specific -[3807.20 --> 3808.42] set of jobs -[3808.42 --> 3810.28] and we see -[3810.28 --> 3811.20] Jesus do those -[3811.20 --> 3811.68] throughout his -[3811.68 --> 3812.08] ministry. -[3813.64 --> 3814.16] Priests would be -[3814.16 --> 3815.10] required to teach -[3815.10 --> 3815.70] the law to the -[3815.70 --> 3816.52] people and lead -[3816.52 --> 3816.98] the community -[3816.98 --> 3817.68] in praise to -[3817.68 --> 3817.90] God. -[3818.54 --> 3818.82] They would -[3818.82 --> 3819.48] function as a -[3819.48 --> 3820.18] judicial system -[3820.18 --> 3820.66] for issues -[3820.66 --> 3821.18] related to -[3821.18 --> 3821.88] rituals and -[3821.88 --> 3822.24] purity. -[3822.72 --> 3823.02] They would -[3823.02 --> 3823.60] assess the -[3823.60 --> 3824.12] sick when it -[3824.12 --> 3824.70] relates to -[3824.70 --> 3825.38] ritual purity. -[3825.94 --> 3826.30] They would -[3826.30 --> 3827.18] offer sacrifices -[3827.18 --> 3827.76] on behalf of -[3827.76 --> 3828.46] the people as -[3828.46 --> 3828.84] well as the -[3828.84 --> 3829.66] major sacrifices -[3829.66 --> 3830.20] for the whole -[3830.20 --> 3831.40] community and -[3831.40 --> 3831.58] they would -[3831.58 --> 3832.26] perform purity -[3832.26 --> 3835.02] rituals and -[3835.02 --> 3835.76] cleansing practices -[3835.76 --> 3836.68] for the temple -[3836.68 --> 3837.42] and the people. -[3838.64 --> 3839.12] And Jesus does -[3839.12 --> 3839.70] all of these. -[3840.46 --> 3841.24] Not necessarily -[3841.24 --> 3841.94] in the temple -[3841.94 --> 3843.54] but as we -[3843.54 --> 3844.34] established earlier -[3844.34 --> 3845.64] he is the -[3845.64 --> 3845.90] temple. -[3846.80 --> 3847.64] We see Jesus -[3847.64 --> 3848.92] in this story -[3848.92 --> 3849.60] throw out the -[3849.60 --> 3850.20] money changers -[3850.20 --> 3850.74] and the merchants -[3850.74 --> 3851.54] to cleanse the -[3851.54 --> 3851.78] temple. -[3852.36 --> 3853.00] We see him -[3853.00 --> 3853.80] teach the law -[3853.80 --> 3854.68] most famously -[3854.68 --> 3855.52] in his sermon -[3855.52 --> 3856.02] on the mount -[3856.02 --> 3856.98] earlier in Matthew. -[3857.56 --> 3858.30] We see him -[3858.30 --> 3859.16] healing the blind -[3859.16 --> 3859.76] and the lame -[3859.76 --> 3860.90] in verse 14 -[3860.90 --> 3861.82] and we see -[3861.82 --> 3862.62] children with -[3862.62 --> 3863.54] him praise God -[3863.54 --> 3864.24] in the temple. -[3865.04 --> 3865.66] We see him -[3865.66 --> 3866.40] also function -[3866.40 --> 3867.16] as a judicial -[3867.16 --> 3868.18] role when the -[3868.18 --> 3868.82] religious leaders -[3868.82 --> 3870.10] constantly question -[3870.10 --> 3871.06] him about the -[3871.06 --> 3872.00] temple, civil -[3872.00 --> 3873.14] taxes, Sabbath -[3873.14 --> 3873.88] laws, and -[3873.88 --> 3874.42] healings. -[3875.20 --> 3875.92] And lastly we -[3875.92 --> 3876.42] see Jesus -[3876.42 --> 3877.02] offer the -[3877.02 --> 3878.04] ultimate sacrifice -[3878.04 --> 3878.62] of atonement -[3878.62 --> 3879.52] on the cross. -[3880.78 --> 3881.52] Jesus is the -[3881.52 --> 3882.44] true and better -[3882.44 --> 3883.06] priest. -[3884.76 --> 3885.56] Now this is -[3885.56 --> 3885.90] where we go -[3885.90 --> 3886.24] deeper. -[3889.16 --> 3889.80] And we see -[3889.80 --> 3890.16] that Jesus -[3890.16 --> 3890.82] is more -[3890.82 --> 3891.72] than just -[3891.72 --> 3892.76] merely a -[3892.76 --> 3892.98] king. -[3893.70 --> 3894.28] He's not -[3894.28 --> 3894.96] even merely -[3894.96 --> 3895.68] a combination -[3895.68 --> 3896.52] of these -[3896.52 --> 3897.30] three offices. -[3898.24 --> 3898.94] He's not -[3898.94 --> 3899.80] just a king -[3899.80 --> 3900.56] and a prophet -[3900.56 --> 3901.38] and a priest. -[3902.40 --> 3903.32] Jesus is also -[3903.32 --> 3904.14] a servant, -[3904.70 --> 3905.28] the prophecy, -[3905.64 --> 3905.92] and the -[3905.92 --> 3906.50] sacrifice. -[3908.02 --> 3908.62] Jesus is the -[3908.62 --> 3909.28] sacrifice that -[3909.28 --> 3909.80] he brings -[3909.80 --> 3910.64] as priest -[3910.64 --> 3912.78] to atone -[3912.78 --> 3913.20] for his -[3913.20 --> 3913.54] people. -[3914.20 --> 3914.84] His righteousness -[3914.84 --> 3915.64] is what saves -[3915.64 --> 3915.84] us. -[3915.96 --> 3916.54] He is the -[3916.54 --> 3917.08] pure and -[3917.08 --> 3917.58] spotless -[3917.58 --> 3917.92] lamb. -[3917.92 --> 3919.54] Jesus is -[3919.54 --> 3920.16] the prophecy. -[3920.68 --> 3921.26] He is the -[3921.26 --> 3921.80] word of God -[3921.80 --> 3922.72] sent to teach, -[3923.04 --> 3923.40] warn, and -[3923.40 --> 3924.06] provide for -[3924.06 --> 3924.56] his people. -[3925.58 --> 3926.26] Jesus is -[3926.26 --> 3926.84] the servant. -[3927.20 --> 3927.72] He's humble -[3927.72 --> 3928.36] and gentle, -[3928.84 --> 3929.38] a carpenter -[3929.38 --> 3929.88] building a -[3929.88 --> 3930.38] house for -[3930.38 --> 3931.12] everyone else, -[3931.66 --> 3932.30] washing feet -[3932.30 --> 3932.80] and providing -[3932.80 --> 3933.46] food for -[3933.46 --> 3933.88] thousands. -[3935.32 --> 3935.90] Jesus is not -[3935.90 --> 3936.64] merely a king. -[3937.38 --> 3938.38] He's so much -[3938.38 --> 3939.46] more than we -[3939.46 --> 3940.00] can imagine. -[3940.00 --> 3943.74] in our -[3943.74 --> 3944.52] modern world, -[3944.72 --> 3945.78] we are filling -[3945.78 --> 3946.58] a void that -[3946.58 --> 3947.14] is infinite -[3947.14 --> 3947.90] with finite -[3947.90 --> 3948.50] things. -[3949.30 --> 3949.96] In this -[3949.96 --> 3950.76] modern world, -[3950.88 --> 3951.98] identity is a -[3951.98 --> 3952.50] wild, -[3953.30 --> 3953.68] panicked -[3953.68 --> 3954.48] frenzy of -[3954.48 --> 3955.06] self-made -[3955.06 --> 3955.78] image and -[3955.78 --> 3956.26] appearance -[3956.26 --> 3956.82] crafting, -[3957.30 --> 3957.80] both in the -[3957.80 --> 3958.50] material world -[3958.50 --> 3958.90] and on the -[3958.90 --> 3959.20] internet. -[3959.96 --> 3960.84] We shape -[3960.84 --> 3961.38] and design -[3961.38 --> 3962.36] every aspect -[3962.36 --> 3963.04] of who we -[3963.04 --> 3963.32] are. -[3964.08 --> 3964.52] And I'm not -[3964.52 --> 3965.28] just speaking -[3965.28 --> 3965.98] about appearances, -[3966.42 --> 3967.04] but how we -[3967.04 --> 3967.78] talk and are -[3967.78 --> 3968.54] perceived by -[3968.54 --> 3968.98] those around -[3968.98 --> 3969.32] us. -[3969.88 --> 3970.62] We want -[3970.62 --> 3971.28] them to see -[3971.28 --> 3971.74] that we are -[3971.74 --> 3972.42] a specific -[3972.42 --> 3973.38] kind of -[3973.38 --> 3973.78] person. -[3974.60 --> 3975.32] We're trying -[3975.32 --> 3976.24] to find hope -[3976.24 --> 3976.96] in presidents -[3976.96 --> 3977.60] and prime -[3977.60 --> 3977.96] ministers, -[3978.50 --> 3979.22] new leaders -[3979.22 --> 3980.70] and revolutions -[3980.70 --> 3981.28] that will -[3981.28 --> 3981.90] this time, -[3982.40 --> 3983.04] maybe this -[3983.04 --> 3983.38] time, -[3983.70 --> 3984.64] work and -[3984.64 --> 3985.34] set everything -[3985.34 --> 3985.76] right, -[3986.54 --> 3987.32] the way it -[3987.32 --> 3987.90] should be. -[3989.08 --> 3990.18] Or we -[3990.18 --> 3991.42] find no good -[3991.42 --> 3992.18] in any leader -[3992.18 --> 3992.74] and find -[3992.74 --> 3993.74] ourselves opposing -[3993.74 --> 3994.58] all authority -[3994.58 --> 3995.40] in our lives, -[3995.94 --> 3996.50] demanding we -[3996.50 --> 3997.10] have the final -[3997.10 --> 3997.68] say over -[3997.68 --> 3998.26] everything -[3998.26 --> 3998.98] that happens. -[4000.34 --> 4001.22] We align -[4001.22 --> 4001.90] ourselves with -[4001.90 --> 4002.22] those who -[4002.22 --> 4002.62] claim to -[4002.62 --> 4003.14] have secret -[4003.14 --> 4003.90] knowledge or -[4003.90 --> 4004.70] hidden paths, -[4005.58 --> 4006.24] the one who -[4006.24 --> 4007.04] knows how it -[4007.04 --> 4007.40] works. -[4008.38 --> 4009.40] We need the -[4009.40 --> 4010.18] guidance because -[4010.18 --> 4010.90] we are so -[4010.90 --> 4012.28] overwhelmed by -[4012.28 --> 4012.88] this world -[4012.88 --> 4013.90] that we live -[4013.90 --> 4014.14] in. -[4015.08 --> 4016.14] Or we don't -[4016.14 --> 4016.52] want to be -[4016.52 --> 4017.14] left out of -[4017.14 --> 4017.52] the group -[4017.52 --> 4018.10] that was -[4018.10 --> 4018.46] right. -[4019.68 --> 4020.64] We regiment -[4020.64 --> 4021.46] every minute -[4021.46 --> 4022.20] of our lives -[4022.20 --> 4022.90] with routines, -[4023.20 --> 4023.62] protocols, -[4023.88 --> 4024.92] and systems. -[4024.92 --> 4027.12] But these -[4027.12 --> 4027.66] leaders are -[4027.66 --> 4028.66] just kings. -[4029.66 --> 4030.48] Those people -[4030.48 --> 4031.22] are just -[4031.22 --> 4032.06] false prophets. -[4032.72 --> 4033.20] And those -[4033.20 --> 4034.06] routines are -[4034.06 --> 4034.78] just rituals -[4034.78 --> 4035.58] and sacrifices -[4035.58 --> 4036.12] that don't -[4036.12 --> 4036.50] atone. -[4037.56 --> 4038.12] And in our -[4038.12 --> 4039.02] sin, we are -[4039.02 --> 4040.06] supplementing kings -[4040.06 --> 4040.68] for lesser -[4040.68 --> 4041.10] princes, -[4041.80 --> 4042.56] our prophets -[4042.56 --> 4043.62] for soothsayers, -[4043.88 --> 4044.80] and our priests -[4044.80 --> 4045.64] for pagans. -[4046.38 --> 4047.48] They are simply -[4047.48 --> 4048.40] those things. -[4049.06 --> 4050.04] But Christ -[4050.04 --> 4051.20] is so much -[4051.20 --> 4051.64] more. -[4051.64 --> 4053.32] because He -[4053.32 --> 4054.52] is so much -[4054.52 --> 4055.42] more, we need -[4055.42 --> 4056.06] to see what -[4056.06 --> 4056.64] that means for -[4056.64 --> 4056.98] us. -[4058.04 --> 4058.66] Like I said, -[4058.86 --> 4059.54] all this stuff -[4059.54 --> 4060.08] about Jesus, -[4060.90 --> 4061.62] His identity -[4061.62 --> 4062.62] comes back to -[4062.62 --> 4063.02] us. -[4064.20 --> 4064.84] Jesus being -[4064.84 --> 4065.44] not just -[4065.44 --> 4066.30] merely a king, -[4066.96 --> 4067.88] but so much -[4067.88 --> 4070.02] more means -[4070.02 --> 4070.82] that we who -[4070.82 --> 4071.76] are His body -[4071.76 --> 4073.02] are so much -[4073.02 --> 4073.70] more than we -[4073.70 --> 4074.28] can imagine. -[4075.44 --> 4076.30] As people -[4076.30 --> 4077.08] who are united -[4077.08 --> 4077.80] to Christ -[4077.80 --> 4078.74] by grace -[4078.74 --> 4079.66] through faith, -[4079.96 --> 4080.98] we die with -[4080.98 --> 4081.58] our Christ, -[4081.64 --> 4082.22] and will be -[4082.22 --> 4082.80] raised with -[4082.80 --> 4083.92] Christ. -[4084.22 --> 4084.86] We are united -[4084.86 --> 4085.44] to Him and -[4085.44 --> 4086.00] gain the -[4086.00 --> 4086.38] righteousness -[4086.38 --> 4087.20] that is His. -[4088.38 --> 4089.00] Paul says -[4089.00 --> 4089.70] in Romans 8, -[4089.76 --> 4090.26] 17, -[4090.84 --> 4091.34] Now if we -[4091.34 --> 4091.88] are children, -[4092.20 --> 4092.56] then we are -[4092.56 --> 4092.96] heirs, -[4093.22 --> 4094.04] heirs of God, -[4094.42 --> 4095.08] and co-heirs -[4095.08 --> 4095.70] with Christ. -[4096.40 --> 4096.96] Indeed, we -[4096.96 --> 4097.48] share in His -[4097.48 --> 4098.20] sufferings in -[4098.20 --> 4098.62] order that we -[4098.62 --> 4099.34] may also share -[4099.34 --> 4100.02] in His glory. -[4100.74 --> 4101.76] We share in -[4101.76 --> 4102.42] the kingship -[4102.42 --> 4103.06] of Christ, -[4103.48 --> 4103.92] which means -[4103.92 --> 4104.32] that we, -[4104.50 --> 4104.78] like Him, -[4104.90 --> 4105.60] cannot be like -[4105.60 --> 4106.10] the kings -[4106.10 --> 4106.90] of this world -[4106.90 --> 4108.78] who rule -[4108.78 --> 4109.56] with grandeur -[4109.56 --> 4110.16] and pomp -[4110.16 --> 4110.84] and arrogance. -[4110.84 --> 4112.32] and pride, -[4113.00 --> 4113.84] but rather -[4113.84 --> 4114.46] with humility -[4114.46 --> 4115.50] and gentleness, -[4116.18 --> 4116.94] serving others -[4116.94 --> 4117.62] so that they -[4117.62 --> 4118.20] may receive -[4118.20 --> 4118.48] honor. -[4120.16 --> 4121.14] In 1 Peter 2, -[4121.20 --> 4121.50] 9, -[4121.92 --> 4122.62] we read, -[4122.62 --> 4123.22] but you are -[4123.22 --> 4124.02] a chosen people, -[4124.22 --> 4125.44] a royal priesthood, -[4125.72 --> 4126.58] a holy nation, -[4126.74 --> 4127.62] God's special -[4127.62 --> 4128.10] possession, -[4128.40 --> 4128.98] that you may -[4128.98 --> 4129.58] declare the -[4129.58 --> 4130.32] praises of Him -[4130.32 --> 4130.92] who called you -[4130.92 --> 4131.42] out of darkness -[4131.42 --> 4132.22] into His wonderful -[4132.22 --> 4132.56] light. -[4133.78 --> 4134.84] We are also -[4134.84 --> 4136.10] priests sharing -[4136.10 --> 4136.80] in the work -[4136.80 --> 4137.28] of Christ, -[4137.62 --> 4138.66] not in the one -[4138.66 --> 4139.66] perfect sacrifice. -[4140.08 --> 4140.60] He's completed -[4140.60 --> 4140.96] that. -[4141.96 --> 4142.68] But like Him, -[4142.76 --> 4143.50] we can sacrifice -[4143.50 --> 4144.56] our very lives -[4144.56 --> 4146.06] to teach others -[4146.06 --> 4146.72] the Word of God -[4146.72 --> 4147.38] and to make sure -[4147.38 --> 4147.98] His temple, -[4148.46 --> 4148.92] ourselves, -[4148.92 --> 4150.86] is holy -[4150.86 --> 4152.52] and that His -[4152.52 --> 4152.94] people -[4152.94 --> 4154.28] and the rest -[4154.28 --> 4154.80] of the world -[4154.80 --> 4155.48] can know -[4155.48 --> 4156.10] how to worship -[4156.10 --> 4156.98] God properly -[4156.98 --> 4158.48] and not -[4158.48 --> 4159.26] with legalism. -[4160.48 --> 4161.22] And in Acts 2, -[4161.30 --> 4161.76] 38, -[4161.88 --> 4162.34] Peter says, -[4162.46 --> 4163.46] repent and be baptized, -[4163.68 --> 4164.30] every one of you, -[4164.58 --> 4165.74] in the name of Jesus Christ -[4165.74 --> 4166.32] for the forgiveness -[4166.32 --> 4167.30] of your sins -[4167.30 --> 4169.10] and you will receive -[4169.10 --> 4169.60] the gift -[4169.60 --> 4170.48] of the Holy Spirit. -[4171.44 --> 4172.48] Peter here is preaching -[4172.48 --> 4173.26] to the crowds -[4173.26 --> 4174.48] gathered at Pentecost, -[4174.88 --> 4176.04] watching as the disciples -[4176.04 --> 4177.28] have the Holy Spirit -[4177.28 --> 4178.10] fall upon them. -[4179.18 --> 4179.86] He tells them -[4179.86 --> 4180.54] that with belief -[4180.54 --> 4181.52] in Christ, -[4181.74 --> 4182.42] the Holy Spirit -[4182.42 --> 4183.20] is received. -[4183.88 --> 4184.88] The same Spirit -[4184.88 --> 4186.08] that brought the Word -[4186.08 --> 4186.86] through Joseph -[4186.86 --> 4187.60] and Moses -[4187.60 --> 4188.72] and the minor prophets -[4188.72 --> 4190.24] and performed signs -[4190.24 --> 4190.88] and wonders -[4190.88 --> 4191.64] through Samson, -[4191.86 --> 4192.18] Elijah, -[4192.38 --> 4193.00] and Elisha. -[4193.46 --> 4194.84] That same Spirit -[4194.84 --> 4196.90] that made those prophets -[4196.90 --> 4197.78] is in us. -[4199.26 --> 4199.66] Yes, -[4199.86 --> 4200.98] we are sons of God -[4200.98 --> 4201.90] and a nation -[4201.90 --> 4202.44] of priests -[4202.44 --> 4203.28] and prophets, -[4203.88 --> 4205.42] but just like our King, -[4205.42 --> 4206.86] prophet and priest, -[4207.22 --> 4208.24] we must also -[4208.24 --> 4209.38] be servants, -[4209.90 --> 4210.56] sacrifices, -[4211.64 --> 4212.82] and in doing so, -[4213.10 --> 4213.88] we, like Jesus, -[4214.00 --> 4214.78] will be the fulfillment -[4214.78 --> 4215.98] of a past prophecy -[4215.98 --> 4217.12] rising with Him -[4217.12 --> 4218.06] on the last day. -[4221.26 --> 4222.34] Our catechism, -[4222.42 --> 4223.20] the Heidelberg Catechism, -[4223.36 --> 4225.00] summarizes this neatly as well. -[4225.90 --> 4226.86] In question and answer, -[4227.22 --> 4227.72] 32, -[4228.62 --> 4229.62] why are you called -[4229.62 --> 4230.26] a Christian? -[4230.94 --> 4231.74] The answer is, -[4231.82 --> 4232.72] because I am a member -[4232.72 --> 4233.90] of Christ by faith -[4233.90 --> 4235.38] and thus share -[4235.38 --> 4236.22] in His anointing -[4236.22 --> 4237.54] so that I may, -[4237.76 --> 4238.44] as prophet, -[4238.82 --> 4239.72] confess His name, -[4240.48 --> 4241.08] so that I, -[4241.22 --> 4242.50] as priest, -[4242.94 --> 4243.86] present myself, -[4244.28 --> 4245.24] a living sacrifice -[4245.24 --> 4245.96] of thanksgiving, -[4246.52 --> 4247.76] thankfulness to Him, -[4248.18 --> 4248.94] and as king, -[4249.46 --> 4250.28] fight with a free -[4250.28 --> 4251.06] and good conscience -[4251.06 --> 4252.00] against sin -[4252.00 --> 4252.90] and the devil -[4252.90 --> 4253.64] in this life -[4253.64 --> 4254.78] and the hereafter -[4254.78 --> 4255.40] reign with Him -[4255.40 --> 4256.86] eternally over all creatures. -[4256.86 --> 4259.42] We, as prophets, -[4260.08 --> 4261.04] confess His name -[4261.04 --> 4262.40] every time we talk -[4262.40 --> 4262.96] about Jesus -[4262.96 --> 4264.78] to those who are not believers. -[4265.62 --> 4267.08] We confess His name -[4267.08 --> 4268.34] every time we obey -[4268.34 --> 4269.48] rather than sin. -[4269.90 --> 4271.02] We confess His name -[4271.02 --> 4271.76] to our friends -[4271.76 --> 4272.54] and families -[4272.54 --> 4273.44] when we hold -[4273.44 --> 4274.36] each other accountable. -[4275.16 --> 4276.14] We confess His name -[4276.14 --> 4277.22] every time we repent -[4277.22 --> 4278.60] and with a full heart -[4278.60 --> 4279.32] for God -[4279.32 --> 4280.86] and desire to turn to Him. -[4281.54 --> 4282.90] We, as priests, -[4283.30 --> 4283.96] present ourselves -[4283.96 --> 4285.22] as living sacrifices -[4285.22 --> 4286.26] of thanksgiving to Him -[4286.26 --> 4287.92] every time we worship Him -[4287.92 --> 4288.76] and serve each other. -[4289.94 --> 4291.48] Every act of hospitality, -[4291.76 --> 4293.18] every prayer for others, -[4293.64 --> 4294.26] every moment -[4294.26 --> 4295.06] where we choose -[4295.06 --> 4295.82] to obey God -[4295.82 --> 4296.70] rather than sin, -[4297.06 --> 4297.84] or every time -[4297.84 --> 4298.72] we read our Bibles -[4298.72 --> 4300.04] and grow in our understanding -[4300.04 --> 4300.58] of the Lord, -[4301.86 --> 4303.00] listening to what He -[4303.00 --> 4304.00] is teaching to us. -[4304.60 --> 4305.90] Every time we dedicate -[4305.90 --> 4306.94] ourselves to live -[4306.94 --> 4308.44] wholly for Him -[4308.44 --> 4310.16] and listen to the word preached, -[4310.36 --> 4311.66] we live as priests. -[4313.38 --> 4314.70] And we live as kings -[4314.70 --> 4316.30] who are co-heirs with Christ -[4316.30 --> 4317.56] when we lead others -[4317.56 --> 4318.58] into faithfulness -[4318.58 --> 4319.90] and away from sin. -[4320.30 --> 4321.96] Every time we defend the weak -[4321.96 --> 4323.14] and do whatever we do -[4323.14 --> 4324.28] in our work -[4324.28 --> 4325.32] for the glory of God, -[4326.16 --> 4327.30] every act of service -[4327.30 --> 4328.12] to God's body -[4328.12 --> 4328.84] and to the world -[4328.84 --> 4330.06] in which He died for, -[4331.50 --> 4332.80] we fulfill our tasks -[4332.80 --> 4334.20] as kings and stewards -[4334.20 --> 4334.96] of creation -[4334.96 --> 4336.24] into God's glory. -[4337.30 --> 4338.60] So do these things. -[4339.28 --> 4340.68] This is why we are here. -[4341.24 --> 4342.32] These are His commands. -[4342.32 --> 4345.14] We are not merely disciples. -[4346.12 --> 4347.02] We are co-heirs -[4347.02 --> 4348.08] to Christ's throne, -[4348.60 --> 4349.36] fellow priests -[4349.36 --> 4350.58] and minor prophets. -[4351.40 --> 4352.00] Follow Him -[4352.00 --> 4353.24] and do His work. -[4357.36 --> 4358.52] When I was watching -[4358.52 --> 4359.50] the recent elections -[4359.50 --> 4361.32] a few couple months ago, -[4362.08 --> 4362.90] I was disappointed -[4362.90 --> 4364.24] for a myriad of reasons. -[4364.86 --> 4365.96] I put my hope -[4365.96 --> 4366.90] in someone else. -[4367.56 --> 4368.80] I wanted to determine -[4368.80 --> 4369.32] the outcome -[4369.32 --> 4370.22] rather than God. -[4370.22 --> 4371.56] I got lost -[4371.56 --> 4372.78] in listening to podcasts. -[4373.18 --> 4374.60] I spent so much time -[4374.60 --> 4375.42] letting the voices -[4375.42 --> 4376.00] on the internet -[4376.00 --> 4376.86] guide my life -[4376.86 --> 4378.20] that it gets in the way -[4378.20 --> 4379.70] of how much I let -[4379.70 --> 4380.78] and listen to God. -[4381.82 --> 4383.02] And I'm constantly -[4383.02 --> 4384.04] trying to fill my head -[4384.04 --> 4384.72] with information -[4384.72 --> 4386.08] so that I can live up -[4386.08 --> 4386.54] to the image -[4386.54 --> 4387.42] of the smart person -[4387.42 --> 4388.52] people say I am. -[4390.50 --> 4391.46] But these things -[4391.46 --> 4392.44] weigh me down. -[4393.44 --> 4394.36] And this burden, -[4394.84 --> 4395.42] His burden, -[4395.96 --> 4397.16] is so much lighter. -[4397.16 --> 4399.00] And I've seen -[4399.00 --> 4399.78] the weight lift -[4399.78 --> 4400.52] off my shoulders -[4400.52 --> 4401.42] when I go to Him. -[4401.90 --> 4403.10] When I trust Him -[4403.10 --> 4404.64] rather than presidents -[4404.64 --> 4405.78] and follow Him -[4405.78 --> 4406.62] rather than some -[4406.62 --> 4407.84] 40-year-old guru -[4407.84 --> 4408.98] who is selling -[4408.98 --> 4409.86] some green paste -[4409.86 --> 4410.38] on the internet. -[4411.56 --> 4413.00] And when I read His word, -[4413.12 --> 4414.26] I am amazed -[4414.26 --> 4415.16] at His wisdom. -[4416.04 --> 4416.82] How could I, -[4417.28 --> 4418.30] how could we -[4418.30 --> 4420.66] ever think -[4420.66 --> 4421.60] that we could craft -[4421.60 --> 4422.82] a better image -[4422.82 --> 4423.16] for ourselves -[4423.68 --> 4425.48] than He who has said -[4425.48 --> 4426.52] we're made in His? -[4427.16 --> 4430.48] But you hear that? -[4431.26 --> 4432.16] It's Him -[4432.16 --> 4433.14] who made us -[4433.14 --> 4433.86] in His image. -[4434.82 --> 4435.72] We need to stop -[4435.72 --> 4436.58] crafting ourselves -[4436.58 --> 4437.56] into false idols -[4437.56 --> 4438.98] and must remember -[4438.98 --> 4439.68] that it is because -[4439.68 --> 4440.46] of our unity -[4440.46 --> 4441.44] with Christ -[4441.44 --> 4443.04] which He died for. -[4444.40 --> 4445.36] Through that unity -[4445.36 --> 4446.50] He has made us -[4446.50 --> 4447.20] so much more -[4447.20 --> 4448.34] than we can imagine. -[4449.56 --> 4450.82] And with our unity -[4450.82 --> 4451.96] must come humility -[4451.96 --> 4453.26] and gentleness -[4453.26 --> 4454.16] that is found -[4454.16 --> 4454.90] in our Creator. -[4454.90 --> 4458.68] Jesus is so much more -[4458.68 --> 4459.62] than we can imagine. -[4460.66 --> 4461.84] He is God after all. -[4462.68 --> 4463.46] And because of that -[4463.46 --> 4464.46] we can do nothing -[4464.46 --> 4465.86] but behold our King. -[4466.48 --> 4467.68] He's so much more. -[4468.84 --> 4469.48] Let's pray. -[4472.90 --> 4473.68] Dear Lord, -[4474.10 --> 4475.76] thank You for who You are. -[4476.70 --> 4477.92] Open our minds. -[4478.98 --> 4480.44] Continue to show us -[4480.44 --> 4481.70] who You are, -[4481.82 --> 4482.36] what You do. -[4483.30 --> 4484.44] Help us read Your Word -[4484.44 --> 4485.54] day and nights, Lord, -[4485.68 --> 4486.78] so that we can see -[4486.78 --> 4487.54] Your face. -[4488.82 --> 4489.36] Pray, Lord, -[4490.04 --> 4490.94] give us -[4490.94 --> 4492.30] more and more, -[4492.84 --> 4494.04] more than we can ask -[4494.04 --> 4495.06] of who You are -[4495.06 --> 4496.64] so that we can see -[4496.64 --> 4497.24] who we are -[4497.24 --> 4498.06] and worship You -[4498.06 --> 4498.82] and obey You -[4498.82 --> 4499.42] as we should. -[4500.26 --> 4501.22] In Jesus' name I pray. -[4501.48 --> 4501.70] Amen. -[4501.70 --> 4501.80] Amen. -[4531.70 --> 4542.64] Our firm foundation, our rock, the only solid ground, nations rise and fall. -[4545.98 --> 4556.18] Kingdoms are strong now shaken, we trust forever in your name, the name of Jesus. -[4556.18 --> 4564.02] Oh, we trust in the name of Jesus. -[4567.62 --> 4574.38] You are the only King forever, almighty God who lift you higher. -[4575.00 --> 4580.36] You are the only King forever, forevermore. -[4580.36 --> 4585.18] You are victorious, you are the only King forever. -[4586.18 --> 4588.94] Almighty God who lift you higher. -[4589.60 --> 4594.96] You are the only King forever, forevermore. -[4595.38 --> 4596.82] You are victorious. -[4596.82 --> 4606.02] You are the only King forever, forever. -[4606.02 --> 4611.22] You are the only King forever, forever. -[4611.22 --> 4641.22] -[4641.22 --> 4642.22] Almighty God who lift you higher. -[4642.22 --> 4646.22] You are the only King forever, forevermore. -[4646.22 --> 4648.22] You are the only King forever, almighty God who lift you higher. -[4648.22 --> 4649.22] You are the only King forever, forevermore. -[4649.22 --> 4650.22] You are the only King forever, forevermore. -[4650.22 --> 4655.22] You are the only King forever, almighty God who lift you higher. -[4655.22 --> 4656.22] You are the only King forever, forevermore. -[4656.22 --> 4657.22] You are the only King forever, forevermore. -[4657.22 --> 4662.22] You are the only King forever, forevermore. -[4662.22 --> 4663.22] You are victorious. -[4663.22 --> 4666.22] You are the only King forever, almighty God who lift you higher. -[4666.22 --> 4667.02] God who lift you higher. -[4667.02 --> 4667.22] You are the only King forever, forevermore. -[4667.22 --> 4668.22] You are the only King forever, forevermore. -[4668.22 --> 4669.22] gentlemen. -[4669.22 --> 4673.22] You are the only King forever, forevermore. -[4673.22 --> 4677.56] Forevermore you are victorious -[4691.56 --> 4695.76] We lift our banner high -[4695.76 --> 4699.38] We lift the name of Jesus -[4699.38 --> 4702.88] From age to age to age -[4702.88 --> 4706.48] Your kingdom has no end -[4706.48 --> 4710.08] We lift our banner high -[4710.08 --> 4713.76] We lift the name of Jesus -[4713.76 --> 4717.22] From age to age to age -[4717.22 --> 4720.78] Your kingdom has no end -[4720.78 --> 4723.82] You are the only King forever -[4723.82 --> 4727.68] Almighty God we lift you higher -[4727.68 --> 4731.22] You are the only King forever -[4731.22 --> 4734.82] Forevermore you are victorious -[4734.82 --> 4738.32] You are the only King forever -[4738.32 --> 4742.10] Almighty God we lift you higher -[4742.10 --> 4745.54] You are the only King forever -[4745.54 --> 4749.76] Forevermore you are victorious -[4749.76 --> 4760.96] The Lord's blessing -[4760.96 --> 4765.20] The Lord bless you and keep you -[4765.20 --> 4774.26] The Lord's blessing -[4774.26 --> 4777.18] The Lord bless you and keep you -[4777.18 --> 4779.98] The Lord make his face shine on you -[4779.98 --> 4781.20] And be gracious to you -[4781.20 --> 4783.32] The Lord turn his face towards you -[4783.32 --> 4784.60] And give you peace -[4784.60 --> 4785.68] Amen -[4785.68 --> 4792.88] So -[4792.88 --> 4793.36] God bless you and Jesus -[4793.36 --> 4794.76] Amen -[4794.76 --> 4820.76] May our homes be built with dancing -[4824.76 --> 4832.76] May our streams be filled with joy -[4832.76 --> 4840.76] May it just as loud to Jesus -[4840.76 --> 4846.76] As the leaves will turn and rain -[4846.76 --> 4854.76] From the mountains to the valleys -[4854.76 --> 4862.76] Hear our praises, rise to you -[4862.76 --> 4870.76] From the heavens to the nations -[4870.76 --> 4878.76] Hear our singing, fill the air -[4878.76 --> 4892.76] May your light shine in the darkness -[4892.76 --> 4900.76] As we walk before the cross -[4900.76 --> 4908.76] May your glory hail the cold earth -[4908.76 --> 4916.76] As the water on the sea -[4916.76 --> 4922.76] From the mountains to the valley -[4922.76 --> 4932.76] Hear our praises, rise to you -[4932.76 --> 4940.76] From the heavens to the nations -[4940.76 --> 4948.76] Hear our singing, fill the air -[4948.76 --> 4956.76] From the mountains to the valleys -[4956.76 --> 4964.76] Hear our praises, rise to you -[4964.76 --> 4972.76] From the heavens to the nations -[4972.76 --> 4982.76] Hear our singing, fill the air -[4982.76 --> 4998.76] From and the RUSH -[4998.76 --> 5002.76] All outppings may the air -[5002.76 --> 5032.74] Thank you. -[5032.76 --> 5062.74] Thank you. -[5062.76 --> 5092.74] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, August 24, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, August 24, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index bc3e670b88b300e42599370a5af27c720ca82c7b..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, August 24, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,63 +0,0 @@ -• Repetition of the word "thank you" for an extended period, approximately 20 minutes -• Sudden deviation from repetition with a statement "He is my light" -• Continued repetition of "thank you" until the end of the transcript -• Final segment without repetition: "Yeah, that's right" -• Prayer for forgiveness and humility -• Gratitude for blessings in the congregation -• Requests for God's guidance and protection for various individuals and ministries -• Thankfulness for the church's activities and outreach efforts -• Appreciation for the preachers and their challenging messages -• Introduction to the sermon, focusing on Matthew 26 and the Lord's Supper -• The speaker discusses Jesus' last supper and its significance -• Temporary things that try to fill our lives leave us empty -• The hunger we feel may be pointing us to something greater than what the world offers -• Jesus' actions at the last supper offer a true and better feast for satisfying human hunger -• The "blood of the covenant" language in Jesus' words echoes Moses' covenant meal in Exodus 24, but also signifies a new era of continuity and discontinuity with the old covenant. -• The Lord's Supper is a true and better meal than the old covenant meal -• The blood that ratifies this covenant is the blood of Jesus -• The covenant established by Jesus is unbreakable and written on the hearts of those who hear it -• This meal is the fulfillment of Jeremiah 31, promising a new covenant -• The Lord's Supper has been observed by the church for 2,000 years in various forms (Eucharist, Lord's Supper, Table, Communion) -• Jesus gives his body and blood to us in this meal in a real but not carnal way -• The Bible insists that the Lord's Supper is more than just a memorial, with real-life consequences for those who participate without discerning the body -• Jesus' words about eating His flesh and drinking His blood are scandalous to the crowd -• Peter stays with Jesus after others leave, acknowledging that He has the words of eternal life -• The Bible makes a connection between Jesus' words and the Eucharist (eating and drinking His flesh and blood) -• At the Eucharist, Christ meets us in covenant fellowship through the corporeal signs of bread and wine -• Early Christians were persecuted for being accused of cannibalism due to their understanding of the Eucharist as a real participation with Jesus' life. -• The early church understood the Eucharist as a holy mystery -• Church fathers such as Ignatius, Justin Martyr, and Irenaeus described it as Jesus Christ being made flesh -• John Calvin viewed the supper as too lofty for human understanding, instead emphasizing experiencing it over comprehension -• The presence of God in the Eucharist is seen as covenant fellowship with Christ, meeting deep human longings -• The Eucharist is described as a feast prepared by Christ himself, using his own body and blood as tokens of his love and acceptance -• Matthew's use of Exodus 24 to highlight Jesus as the true and better Moses -• The blood of sacrifice in the covenant between God and his people -• The Lord's Supper as a symbol of covenant life with the king himself -• Presence, relationship, and invitation into God's kingdom -• The doctrine of transubstantiation and its development in medieval Christianity -• Excommunication in Roman Catholic doctrine -• Transubstantiation as a philosophical explanation of the Eucharist -• The Council of Trent's elevation of transubstantiation to necessary dogma -• The Reformation's reclaiming of a more biblical understanding of the Eucharist -• The supper as a covenant meal where Christ offers himself to his people -• Jesus closes a meal with a promise to not drink again until the day he drinks with God in his Father's kingdom. -• The covenant meal points forward to a final banquet and wedding feast of the Lamb in Revelation 19. -• What began at Sinai is fulfilled in Christ Jesus, drawing us to covenant fellowship and foreshadowing eternal joy. -• Every celebration of this meal invites us to taste and see the king's presence and reminds us that our hunger is not meaningless but points to a future feast. -• Our lives are full of snacks that never truly feed us, but Jesus meets us with a feast unlike anything the world can offer. -• He offers his very self, bread and wine made covenant blood that secures unbreakable fellowship with God. -• Emptiness and longing in life are not mistakes or weaknesses, but a call to Jesus -• The true food that satisfies our hunger is Jesus Christ himself -• God points to himself through our desires and longings -• The king's table (Jesus) is ready and the feast is for everyone -• Our deepest longings find their answer at the king's table in Jesus' presence -• The king has set his table and in his presence every longing finds its feast, every ache its answer, and every heart its home -• Worship and marveling at the mystery of faith -• Request for empowerment by the Holy Spirit to carry out God's will -• Reflection on Jesus' sacrifice and the weight of sin on His shoulders -• Offering one's heart completely to God and surrendering all -• Commissioned to minister the presence of Jesus to the world -• Blessings from God, including protection, support, and friendship -• The song "Nothing But the Blood of Jesus" is sung, with repeated phrases emphasizing its central message -• No other salvation or cleansing can be found except through the blood of Jesus -• Faith in Christ's atonement for sin is emphasized as the sole source of righteousness and purity \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, August 24, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, August 24, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a2f5d804b9fa856c9064a495bc11bb99946d702b..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, August 24, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1206 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 599.98] Thank you. -[600.00 --> 629.98] Thank you. -[629.98 --> 659.96] Thank you. -[659.98 --> 689.96] Thank you. -[689.98 --> 719.96] Thank you. -[719.98 --> 720.00] Thank you. -[749.98 --> 779.98] Thank you. -[779.98 --> 809.96] Thank you. -[809.98 --> 839.96] Thank you. -[839.96 --> 869.94] Thank you. -[869.96 --> 899.94] Thank you. -[899.94 --> 929.92] Thank you. -[929.94 --> 959.92] Thank you. -[959.94 --> 989.92] Thank you. -[989.94 --> 1019.92] Thank you. -[1019.94 --> 1049.92] Thank you. -[1049.92 --> 1079.90] above all else. -[1079.90 --> 1109.88] Thank you. -[1109.90 --> 1139.88] Thank you. -[1139.90 --> 1169.88] Thank you. -[1169.88 --> 1199.86] Thank you. -[1199.88 --> 1229.86] Thank you. -[1229.88 --> 1259.86] Thank you. -[1259.88 --> 1289.86] Oh God. -[1289.86 --> 1319.84] Thank you. -[1319.86 --> 1349.84] Thank you. -[1349.86 --> 1379.86] Thank you. -[1379.86 --> 1409.84] Thank you. -[1409.84 --> 1439.82] Thank you. -[1439.82 --> 1469.80] Thank you. -[1469.82 --> 1499.80] Thank you. -[1499.80 --> 1529.80] Thank you. -[1529.80 --> 1559.78] Thank you. -[1559.78 --> 1589.76] Thank you. -[1589.78 --> 1619.76] Thank you. -[1619.78 --> 1649.78] Thank you. -[1649.78 --> 1679.78] -[1679.78 --> 1709.78] -[1709.78 --> 1739.78] -[1739.78 --> 1769.78] Thank you. -[1769.78 --> 1799.76] Thank you. -[1799.78 --> 1829.76] Thank you. -[1829.78 --> 1859.76] Thank you. -[1859.78 --> 1889.76] Thank you. -[1889.78 --> 1919.76] Thank you. -[1919.78 --> 1949.76] Thank you. -[1949.78 --> 1979.76] Thank you. -[1979.78 --> 2009.76] Thank you. -[2009.78 --> 2039.78] Thank you. -[2039.78 --> 2069.78] Thank you. -[2069.78 --> 2099.76] Thank you. -[2099.78 --> 2129.76] See the day. -[2129.78 --> 2159.76] Thank you. -[2159.78 --> 2189.76] Thank you. -[2189.78 --> 2219.76] Thank you. -[2219.78 --> 2249.78] Thank you. -[2249.78 --> 2279.76] Thank you. -[2279.78 --> 2309.76] Thank you. -[2309.78 --> 2339.78] Thank you. -[2339.78 --> 2369.78] Thank you. -[2369.78 --> 2399.78] Thank you. -[2399.78 --> 2429.76] Thank you. -[2429.76 --> 2459.76] Thank you. -[2459.76 --> 2489.76] Thank you. -[2489.76 --> 2519.74] Thank you. -[2519.76 --> 2549.76] Thank you. -[2549.76 --> 2579.74] Thank you. -[2579.74 --> 2609.72] Thank you. -[2609.74 --> 2639.74] Thank you. -[2639.74 --> 2669.74] Thank you. -[2669.74 --> 2699.72] Thank you. -[2699.74 --> 2729.74] Thank you. -[2729.74 --> 2759.74] Thank you. -[2759.74 --> 2789.74] Thank you. -[2789.74 --> 2819.72] Thank you. -[2819.74 --> 2849.72] Thank you. -[2849.74 --> 2879.72] He is my light. -[2879.74 --> 2909.74] Thank you. -[2909.74 --> 2939.72] Thank you. -[2939.74 --> 2941.74] Thank you. -[2969.74 --> 2971.74] Thank you. -[2999.74 --> 3001.74] Thank you. -[3029.74 --> 3031.74] Thank you. -[3059.74 --> 3061.74] Thank you. -[3089.74 --> 3091.74] Thank you. -[3119.74 --> 3149.72] Yeah, that's right. -[3149.74 --> 3179.74] Thank you. -[3179.74 --> 3180.74] Thank you. -[3180.74 --> 3181.74] Thank you. -[3181.74 --> 3182.74] Thank you. -[3182.74 --> 3185.74] Thank you. -[3185.74 --> 3186.74] Thank you. -[3186.74 --> 3187.74] Thank you. -[3187.74 --> 3188.74] Thank you. -[3217.74 --> 3247.74] Thank you. -[3247.74 --> 3249.74] Thank you. -[3277.74 --> 3279.74] Thank you. -[3307.74 --> 3309.74] Thank you. -[3337.74 --> 3338.74] Thank you. -[3338.74 --> 3339.74] Thank you. -[3367.74 --> 3368.74] Thank you. -[3368.74 --> 3369.74] Thank you. -[3369.74 --> 3370.74] Thank you. -[3370.74 --> 3371.74] Thank you. -[3399.74 --> 3401.74] Thank you. -[3401.74 --> 3402.74] Thank you. -[3402.74 --> 3403.74] Thank you. -[3403.74 --> 3405.74] Thank you. -[3405.74 --> 3406.74] Thank you. -[3406.74 --> 3407.74] Thank you. -[3435.74 --> 3437.74] Thank you. -[3437.74 --> 3438.74] Thank you. -[3438.74 --> 3440.74] Thank you. -[3440.74 --> 3444.64] We, on the other hand, are so limited in those attributes. -[3445.22 --> 3448.46] We think we know everything and completely miss our own ignorance. -[3449.20 --> 3453.68] We think we control everything, but our plans are just so easily blown off course. -[3454.70 --> 3457.84] We think we can do all things, but we neglect your ways. -[3459.50 --> 3463.20] We ask for your forgiveness for these wrongs. -[3464.10 --> 3469.00] We pray that you reveal our shortcomings to us so that we may be cleansed from our wrongs. -[3469.00 --> 3474.12] Reveal our wayward ways so we can follow yours with the Spirit's guidance. -[3475.52 --> 3480.14] We regret the time that your name is tarnished as a result of our actions. -[3480.74 --> 3485.22] Rather, we pray, God, that instead of people being turned off by Christians, -[3485.36 --> 3487.58] that they may be attracted to you through us. -[3488.82 --> 3493.74] Father, we pray for the many needs and things going on in our congregation. -[3493.74 --> 3499.52] Father, we pray for John as he continues to navigate his health. -[3499.88 --> 3503.46] We pray for Pastor Abolino anticipating the surgery. -[3503.68 --> 3507.74] We pray that that blood sugar will get under control. -[3508.84 --> 3514.10] Father, we pray, too, for Doug and his continuing battle with cancer. -[3515.08 --> 3517.42] And we thank you for Ava and Lisa. -[3517.42 --> 3523.54] We pray that you bless them, and we thank you for the blessing that they have already been to our congregation. -[3524.88 --> 3529.34] And we think of those who are beginning a new phase in their life. -[3530.96 --> 3540.48] We pray for Imani and Zania and Nathan and Allie McKinley, Marika, Joey, and Matthias. -[3540.48 --> 3545.02] We pray that you bless them as they navigate a new season of life. -[3548.82 --> 3552.98] Father, we thank you for the many blessings in our congregation. -[3553.56 --> 3560.50] Thank you for the people who make up our church, your body, for the things that they do and the faith that they exemplify. -[3561.00 --> 3565.36] Father, we thank you for the seniors, whether they are new to worshiping with us -[3565.36 --> 3569.16] or perhaps even founding members of this congregation so many years ago. -[3569.16 --> 3575.14] We cherish their presence, and we pray that they may continually remind us of your faithfulness. -[3576.28 --> 3582.38] Thank you for those babies and toddlers bringing absolute delight, noise, and promise to us. -[3582.52 --> 3585.48] Thank you for the blessings that they bring. -[3586.56 --> 3590.80] Father, we thank you for the many ministries in our midst that support all the functions of our church. -[3591.46 --> 3597.94] We think of those who are taking care of the reconstruction, and we pray that that will go well. -[3597.94 --> 3605.10] And we thank you that things can extend beyond the walls of this congregation. -[3605.86 --> 3611.82] We think of Tim and Charity Johnson and the work that they do, for Jody and Uriel and the work that they do. -[3612.48 --> 3616.30] We pray, too, for the Reactivate conference that we're able to host. -[3616.30 --> 3624.68] Lord, we pray that those plans and preparations will come together, and we pray for those leading it, -[3624.74 --> 3629.00] that you will give them wisdom and eyes to see what you would have them do. -[3630.06 --> 3635.76] We thank you for the work of the deacons as they reach out to people in the community, people in our congregation, -[3636.42 --> 3638.14] things that we're not even aware of. -[3638.14 --> 3647.14] Thank you for those who walk alongside someone who's in need, for those who do things like giving others a ride, -[3647.38 --> 3654.02] for those who share a timely word of encouragement, and we have no idea how meaningful those words can be. -[3654.54 --> 3659.62] We pray that you give us eyes to see those that we can support and the courage to speak. -[3659.62 --> 3668.38] Thank you for your word that is faithfully preached, for the blessing of the preachers that we have here that challenge us with your word. -[3668.98 --> 3672.16] Thank you for a big idea each and every Sunday. -[3673.50 --> 3678.60] And thank you that we can take the time to pour over Matthew and for the passage today. -[3680.18 --> 3687.84] We pray that through our worship today that we may sense that you are all-knowing, all-powerful, and present everywhere. -[3687.84 --> 3693.84] Give us an eternal perspective and a hope that rests in you. -[3695.10 --> 3699.16] O the depths of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God, -[3699.66 --> 3704.04] for from him and through him and for him are all things. -[3704.84 --> 3707.28] To him be the glory forever and ever. -[3707.82 --> 3708.12] Amen. -[3708.12 --> 3708.24] Amen. -[3717.84 --> 3733.68] Rob just prayed a prayer of thanksgiving for preachers who challenge us. -[3734.54 --> 3738.80] And so I'm grateful for that prayer, because today's text might be a challenge -[3738.80 --> 3743.88] as we wrestle with what is happening in the Lord's Supper. -[3743.88 --> 3753.54] If you're a guest with us, we have been this summer looking at Jesus as shown to us, revealed to us in the Gospel of Matthew. -[3754.12 --> 3757.10] Our series has been titled, Behold Your King. -[3757.18 --> 3765.14] And we've made our way taking snapshots that we might fix our eyes on the majesty of Jesus. -[3765.14 --> 3770.20] We continue that series this morning in Matthew 26. -[3770.60 --> 3776.42] And we're going to read verses 26 through 30 to the end there. -[3776.80 --> 3779.38] The first time through, it will be on the screen behind me. -[3779.76 --> 3782.90] But of course, I encourage you, if you have a Bible with you, open that up. -[3783.14 --> 3784.06] Follow along there. -[3784.48 --> 3786.90] Or turn on your Bible app. -[3787.02 --> 3787.60] Open that up. -[3787.70 --> 3788.46] Follow along there. -[3788.56 --> 3791.58] Keep that in front of you as we go through this together. -[3791.58 --> 3799.30] Let's read through Matthew 26, starting at verse 26. -[3801.94 --> 3805.36] While they were eating, Jesus took bread. -[3805.78 --> 3810.60] And when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, -[3811.24 --> 3812.66] Take and eat. -[3813.14 --> 3814.86] This is my body. -[3814.86 --> 3817.68] And then he took a cup. -[3817.98 --> 3820.68] And when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, -[3821.20 --> 3822.90] Drink from it, all of you. -[3823.26 --> 3829.94] This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. -[3830.82 --> 3841.50] I tell you, I will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom. -[3841.50 --> 3846.98] And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. -[3847.62 --> 3848.98] This is the word of the Lord. -[3854.40 --> 3865.68] Have you ever had that feeling or that experience where you have sat down for an excellent meal, eaten and eaten and eaten, -[3865.68 --> 3876.94] and then like 10 minutes later, you're starving again? -[3876.94 --> 3887.26] My son, who never stops moving, has this every single night. -[3888.10 --> 3893.54] He will eat his fill at a dinner, and then within half an hour, he's starving. -[3894.30 --> 3895.76] And then we have to feed him again. -[3896.10 --> 3899.84] And then five minutes before bed, he's starving one more time. -[3900.18 --> 3901.00] We have to feed him again. -[3901.00 --> 3907.22] But it's also not just in literal food, right? -[3907.36 --> 3918.34] But metaphorically, maybe you are a parent who works late every night, every night, every night, -[3918.34 --> 3922.22] only to find out that you're missing time with your kids. -[3922.22 --> 3927.20] Or maybe you're endlessly scrolling social media. -[3928.38 --> 3936.12] Someone will like back what you have liked or will leave a comment for you so that you finally feel seen. -[3936.42 --> 3941.46] No matter how long, how many times you try, you just get missed. -[3942.14 --> 3945.12] Or it feels like you are being missed. -[3945.12 --> 3955.10] Perhaps it's in celebrating a big promotion to realize that this new thing doesn't fill that ache inside of you. -[3955.82 --> 3965.50] We all know this kind of hunger, and we try to satiate snacks and with small victories that in the end never truly satisfied. -[3967.58 --> 3973.48] When my kids were young, one of their favorite books was actually The Very Hungry Caterpillar. -[3973.56 --> 3974.66] How many people know this book? -[3975.12 --> 3976.40] All right. -[3977.18 --> 3988.82] In the book, Caterpillar eats and eats and eats, and he eats fruit and chocolate cake and candies, and then eventually leaves, -[3988.90 --> 3992.12] and he just keeps eating and eating and eating, and he isn't full. -[3992.46 --> 4000.58] It's only at the end, when he gets the right food, at the right time, does he finally grow and transform. -[4000.58 --> 4006.96] Now, the story is really simple, but it's an excellent mirror for us in our lives. -[4007.48 --> 4012.52] All the temporary things that we try to feed on, all the junk food that we go after, -[4012.86 --> 4018.92] leaves us empty until, at the right moment, true food is offered. -[4018.92 --> 4023.18] This is the question for us this morning. -[4024.98 --> 4032.88] How are we chasing things that we thought would satisfy, only to realize they're leaving us empty? -[4032.88 --> 4039.28] Or what are the things that we try to fill our lives with that never truly satisfy? -[4039.28 --> 4047.50] It could be that the hunger you feel is pointing you to something greater than what the world has to offer. -[4047.50 --> 4055.62] My contention this morning is that when Jesus takes the bread and the bread at the last supper, -[4055.90 --> 4063.50] he is offering something extraordinary, something we cannot manufacture on our own, -[4064.34 --> 4071.86] but something that our bodies, our very souls, in fact, long for. -[4071.86 --> 4083.32] The big idea this morning is that the hunger in every human heart can only be satisfied at the king's table, -[4083.92 --> 4091.22] where Jesus offers himself in covenant fellowship as the true and better feast. -[4093.00 --> 4099.40] The only way to satisfy that hunger is to come to Jesus. -[4101.86 --> 4109.88] We read that Jesus, at this supper, takes bread, he blesses it, he breaks it, -[4109.94 --> 4112.72] and he gives it to his disciples, saying, -[4112.92 --> 4116.76] Take, eat, this is my body. -[4117.32 --> 4118.88] And then he takes the cup and he says, -[4119.26 --> 4125.60] This is my blood of the covenant which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. -[4125.60 --> 4133.22] Now, the Jewish men who make up Jesus' disciples reclining around this table, -[4133.78 --> 4138.64] and many of the first audience of Matthew's telling this story, -[4139.02 --> 4143.58] would hear in those words a very particular echo. -[4145.46 --> 4153.16] These words call back to Moses' words in the covenant meal that takes place in Exodus 24. -[4153.16 --> 4158.22] In Exodus 24, Moses sprinkled blood on the people, -[4158.42 --> 4160.92] and then he says to them, in verse 8, -[4161.26 --> 4165.34] This is the blood of the covenant that the Lord has made with you. -[4165.62 --> 4167.50] And then, we read later on, -[4167.56 --> 4170.84] that he ate and drank with the elders in God's presence. -[4172.38 --> 4176.64] Now, in Exodus, this covenant meal takes place in the context -[4176.64 --> 4180.66] of Moses explaining fellowship offerings. -[4180.90 --> 4182.66] These are sometimes called peace offerings, -[4183.14 --> 4187.52] which were meant to consecrate a meal before God -[4187.52 --> 4193.12] and to share fellowship with him and a brother or sister in the community. -[4194.00 --> 4197.00] Fellowship offerings have been called by others, -[4197.34 --> 4199.08] sharing a meal with God. -[4199.08 --> 4203.46] And by using these words, blood of the covenant, -[4203.98 --> 4209.08] Jesus is showing us both the continuity from the old -[4209.08 --> 4213.54] and the discontinuity in his doing a new thing, right? -[4213.60 --> 4216.10] In fulfilling the first covenant era -[4216.10 --> 4220.90] and in filling the new covenant era with new meaning, -[4221.68 --> 4224.56] a new meaning that flows from the old. -[4224.56 --> 4231.20] Jesus, in short, is the true and better Moses. -[4232.20 --> 4235.94] This meal is the true and better meal. -[4236.96 --> 4239.46] The blood that ratifies this covenant -[4239.46 --> 4243.10] is not the blood of animals, but the blood of Jesus. -[4243.94 --> 4248.30] And the covenant that he establishes in this moment is unbreakable, -[4248.48 --> 4250.68] and there's something different about it -[4250.68 --> 4252.42] in that, as we read elsewhere, -[4252.42 --> 4257.08] it's written on the hearts of those who hear it -[4257.08 --> 4259.00] and who receive it. -[4259.80 --> 4264.50] And those hearts are transformed from stone into flesh. -[4265.42 --> 4268.44] This is a fulfilling of what Jeremiah promises, -[4269.04 --> 4271.00] or what God promises through Jeremiah -[4271.00 --> 4274.26] in the promise of a new covenant in Jeremiah 31. -[4275.02 --> 4278.10] This meal is the meal of the new covenant. -[4278.10 --> 4282.62] That's what Jesus is instituting here in this moment. -[4283.40 --> 4285.98] And for 2,000 years since then, -[4286.40 --> 4290.74] the church has been hosting and having this meal together. -[4291.74 --> 4294.98] Now, sometimes we call it the Eucharist, -[4295.32 --> 4298.00] which comes from the Greek word eucharisto, -[4298.22 --> 4299.40] which means to give thanks, -[4300.22 --> 4302.96] because it's the Thanksgiving feast of the church. -[4302.96 --> 4305.18] Sometimes it's called the Lord's Supper, -[4305.94 --> 4307.52] because Jesus is the host. -[4307.90 --> 4309.22] The Lord is the host, -[4309.32 --> 4311.24] and he invites us to join his table. -[4311.92 --> 4314.52] Sometimes it's referred to as the table. -[4315.32 --> 4316.88] Sometimes it's called communion, -[4317.12 --> 4319.00] again, because in this meal, -[4319.18 --> 4321.08] we fellowship with God. -[4321.22 --> 4323.78] We share a meal with him and with each other. -[4323.90 --> 4325.70] We commune together. -[4325.70 --> 4330.62] And Jesus gives us this meal, -[4330.84 --> 4332.60] and in giving it to us, -[4332.62 --> 4337.34] it's important to see that the direction is downward. -[4337.66 --> 4339.98] It's from him to us. -[4340.12 --> 4341.82] It's outward, as it were. -[4343.00 --> 4345.52] It's a meal he gives to us. -[4346.24 --> 4350.24] Even as the word of Jesus is outward, -[4350.70 --> 4351.78] it's for us, -[4351.78 --> 4356.38] this meal is from him to us. -[4356.46 --> 4358.88] One scholar, Dale Bruner, -[4359.40 --> 4360.72] he puts it this way. -[4361.46 --> 4361.86] He says, -[4362.32 --> 4363.24] in his word, -[4363.70 --> 4365.62] Jesus talks to us spiritually. -[4366.38 --> 4367.46] In his supper, -[4368.06 --> 4369.94] Jesus touches us physically. -[4370.72 --> 4371.38] And he goes on, -[4371.84 --> 4373.76] Jesus gives his body to us -[4373.76 --> 4375.54] in the bread and wine -[4375.54 --> 4376.44] in a real, -[4376.88 --> 4379.86] but not a carnal way. -[4381.78 --> 4383.08] I want to acknowledge, -[4383.54 --> 4384.14] it's right here, -[4385.08 --> 4387.76] that I'm going to probably generate questions. -[4388.50 --> 4390.16] And I'm happy to field your questions, -[4390.30 --> 4392.26] but please know that I'm going away for three days. -[4392.84 --> 4393.98] So if you send me an email, -[4394.24 --> 4395.62] I'll get to it at the end of the week. -[4398.18 --> 4400.24] The Bible itself, though, -[4401.08 --> 4404.06] insists that the Lord's Supper -[4404.06 --> 4406.44] is more than a memorial. -[4406.44 --> 4411.42] Paul writes to the Corinthians, -[4412.12 --> 4412.84] and he says, -[4413.20 --> 4414.80] anyone who eats and drinks, -[4414.94 --> 4416.42] that participates in this supper, -[4416.76 --> 4418.22] without discerning the body, -[4418.40 --> 4420.60] eats and drinks judgment on himself. -[4421.14 --> 4421.78] He goes on, -[4421.86 --> 4424.76] that is why many among you are weak and sick, -[4425.14 --> 4427.40] and a number of you have fallen asleep. -[4427.40 --> 4433.26] If the supper were only a reminder, -[4434.82 --> 4437.12] how could there be real-life consequences, -[4437.80 --> 4440.38] like sickness and death? -[4441.80 --> 4443.94] Most people I have ever met -[4443.94 --> 4446.34] don't get sick from misremembering. -[4447.62 --> 4448.16] Right? -[4448.18 --> 4449.52] You don't fall under judgment -[4449.52 --> 4451.22] because of a faulty metaphor. -[4452.96 --> 4455.16] Something more is happening here. -[4455.16 --> 4457.22] Right? -[4457.26 --> 4458.46] It's my contention -[4458.46 --> 4460.08] that the living Christ -[4460.08 --> 4462.84] is really present among His people -[4462.84 --> 4464.42] when we come to the table. -[4465.62 --> 4469.24] Present to bless those who receive in faith -[4469.24 --> 4470.96] and who are present, -[4471.28 --> 4473.58] and He is present then to judge -[4473.58 --> 4477.62] those who mock and despise His gift. -[4478.90 --> 4480.46] And I suggest to you, again, -[4480.58 --> 4482.30] that this is the only way -[4482.30 --> 4484.70] to make sense of Jesus' own words -[4484.70 --> 4485.94] in John 6, -[4486.72 --> 4487.68] where He says, -[4488.00 --> 4489.42] unless you eat the flesh -[4489.42 --> 4490.42] of the Son of Man -[4490.42 --> 4491.48] and drink His blood, -[4491.60 --> 4493.40] you have no life in you. -[4493.94 --> 4494.98] And when He says that, -[4495.06 --> 4497.32] the crowd are scandalized. -[4498.50 --> 4498.80] Right? -[4498.84 --> 4500.54] They understood that Jesus -[4500.54 --> 4502.38] is going beyond metaphor, -[4503.06 --> 4506.24] that He's pressing into something essential, -[4506.62 --> 4507.94] even existential. -[4507.94 --> 4509.60] right? -[4509.60 --> 4512.36] He's speaking of a participation -[4512.36 --> 4515.04] in His very life, -[4515.14 --> 4516.80] a communion with Him -[4516.80 --> 4519.22] that goes deeper than words alone, -[4519.34 --> 4521.58] deeper than memory alone. -[4522.24 --> 4524.02] And many people turn back from Him -[4524.02 --> 4524.72] at this point -[4524.72 --> 4526.04] because they couldn't handle it, -[4526.10 --> 4528.02] they couldn't wrap their minds around it. -[4529.00 --> 4530.20] But Peter stays. -[4531.32 --> 4531.74] Right? -[4531.84 --> 4532.44] Peter stays, -[4532.54 --> 4532.98] and he says, -[4532.98 --> 4533.54] Lord, -[4533.54 --> 4533.56] Lord, -[4534.00 --> 4535.48] to whom shall we go? -[4536.02 --> 4538.28] You have the words of eternal life. -[4539.82 --> 4540.44] And in there, -[4540.88 --> 4542.28] we won't spend too much time on it, -[4542.32 --> 4543.64] but note, -[4543.96 --> 4546.48] the Bible makes a straight line connection -[4546.48 --> 4548.54] between the words of eternal life -[4548.54 --> 4550.70] and eating and drinking -[4550.70 --> 4553.56] the flesh and blood of Jesus. -[4553.56 --> 4556.20] So, -[4556.48 --> 4557.94] when we come to the table, -[4558.78 --> 4560.48] we aren't just recalling -[4560.48 --> 4562.50] what Jesus did long ago. -[4563.20 --> 4564.28] Memory matters, -[4564.42 --> 4564.94] absolutely, -[4565.76 --> 4567.64] but more is going on. -[4568.98 --> 4569.56] Here, -[4569.80 --> 4571.78] Christ Himself meets us -[4571.78 --> 4573.00] in covenant fellowship. -[4573.98 --> 4574.44] Here, -[4574.72 --> 4576.68] as John Calvin said -[4576.68 --> 4578.16] years ago, -[4578.36 --> 4580.38] the sacred mystery of the supper -[4580.38 --> 4582.20] consists in two things, -[4582.20 --> 4583.94] the corporeal signs, -[4584.06 --> 4585.54] which are set before our eyes, -[4585.68 --> 4587.40] and the spiritual truth, -[4587.76 --> 4589.34] which is at the same time -[4589.34 --> 4591.40] represented and exhibited -[4591.40 --> 4592.90] through them, -[4593.52 --> 4595.00] through the corporeal signs. -[4595.78 --> 4596.64] In other words, -[4596.90 --> 4598.94] it's a real participation, -[4599.38 --> 4600.60] a true encounter, -[4600.98 --> 4601.84] a covenant meal -[4601.84 --> 4603.70] where the king feeds his people -[4603.70 --> 4605.18] with his own life. -[4606.42 --> 4607.14] And again, -[4607.24 --> 4608.38] as we draw this out -[4608.38 --> 4610.80] and we go back in church history, -[4610.80 --> 4612.46] the church of the second -[4612.46 --> 4613.86] and third centuries -[4613.86 --> 4615.56] understood this. -[4616.54 --> 4618.06] The challenge of this -[4618.06 --> 4619.12] actually worked out -[4619.12 --> 4620.24] in their persecution. -[4622.52 --> 4623.38] Early Christians -[4623.38 --> 4625.00] were charged, -[4625.48 --> 4627.00] among other things, -[4627.06 --> 4628.28] with cannibalism -[4628.28 --> 4629.82] and some other -[4629.82 --> 4631.54] really abhorrent ideas. -[4631.68 --> 4632.12] For example, -[4632.26 --> 4633.54] one of the charges -[4633.54 --> 4634.68] that was leveled -[4634.68 --> 4635.64] against early Christians -[4635.64 --> 4637.04] was that they would -[4637.04 --> 4638.84] eat infants -[4638.84 --> 4640.60] that were baked in dough -[4640.60 --> 4643.08] and that they would drink, -[4643.30 --> 4643.56] quote, -[4643.68 --> 4645.42] loaves steeped in blood. -[4647.00 --> 4647.68] Now, -[4647.84 --> 4648.62] it's clear -[4648.62 --> 4649.94] that these charges -[4649.94 --> 4651.42] come from a misunderstanding -[4651.42 --> 4653.10] of the Eucharist -[4653.10 --> 4654.70] because the church -[4654.70 --> 4655.84] has always used -[4655.84 --> 4657.46] such realistic language -[4657.46 --> 4658.60] to describe -[4658.60 --> 4659.44] what's going on here. -[4660.58 --> 4661.32] And likewise, -[4661.50 --> 4662.88] the earliest church -[4662.88 --> 4664.04] after the apostles -[4664.04 --> 4665.28] understood -[4665.28 --> 4666.42] that Jesus -[4666.42 --> 4667.40] is present -[4667.40 --> 4668.10] in the bread -[4668.10 --> 4668.92] and in the wine -[4668.92 --> 4669.98] in more than -[4669.98 --> 4671.24] a symbolic way. -[4672.50 --> 4674.04] But what they didn't do, -[4674.34 --> 4675.28] and here it is important -[4675.28 --> 4676.16] to continue with me, -[4676.24 --> 4677.18] what they didn't do -[4677.18 --> 4678.04] is attempt -[4678.04 --> 4678.84] to describe -[4678.84 --> 4679.84] the process -[4679.84 --> 4681.34] or the change -[4681.34 --> 4682.14] by which -[4682.14 --> 4683.26] he is present. -[4685.02 --> 4686.12] At the early church, -[4686.84 --> 4687.60] in line with -[4687.60 --> 4688.62] how the Bible itself -[4688.62 --> 4689.52] talks about -[4689.52 --> 4690.94] this holy meal, -[4691.40 --> 4692.30] understood it -[4692.30 --> 4693.92] as a holy mystery. -[4693.92 --> 4697.18] Ignatius of Antioch -[4697.18 --> 4697.68] called it -[4697.68 --> 4698.36] the medicine -[4698.36 --> 4699.92] of immortality. -[4701.10 --> 4701.86] Justin Martyr -[4701.86 --> 4702.92] said that -[4702.92 --> 4703.92] we do not receive -[4703.92 --> 4704.86] these as common -[4704.86 --> 4705.74] bread and drink -[4705.74 --> 4706.96] but as Jesus Christ, -[4707.06 --> 4707.52] our Savior, -[4707.72 --> 4709.10] being made flesh. -[4709.78 --> 4710.40] Irenaeus -[4710.40 --> 4712.50] said the bread, -[4712.76 --> 4713.54] receiving the word -[4713.54 --> 4714.04] of God, -[4714.18 --> 4715.60] becomes the Eucharist, -[4715.74 --> 4716.70] the body of Christ. -[4717.30 --> 4717.80] These are all -[4717.80 --> 4718.72] second century -[4718.72 --> 4719.80] church fathers. -[4720.60 --> 4721.40] Years later, -[4721.58 --> 4722.24] John Calvin, -[4722.70 --> 4723.44] who's one of -[4723.44 --> 4725.24] the magisterial reformers, -[4725.78 --> 4726.98] John Calvin said -[4726.98 --> 4727.98] of the supper, -[4728.42 --> 4729.28] it's a mystery -[4729.28 --> 4730.28] too lofty -[4730.28 --> 4731.42] for either my mind -[4731.42 --> 4732.06] to comprehend -[4732.06 --> 4732.96] or my words -[4732.96 --> 4733.54] to declare. -[4733.82 --> 4735.40] I rather experience -[4735.40 --> 4737.22] than understand it. -[4738.58 --> 4739.18] Point is, -[4739.54 --> 4740.78] the presence of God -[4740.78 --> 4741.82] in the supper -[4741.82 --> 4743.02] is not a puzzle -[4743.02 --> 4743.96] to solve. -[4744.30 --> 4745.90] It's the king's feast -[4745.90 --> 4747.42] where covenant fellowship -[4747.42 --> 4748.46] meets the deepest -[4748.46 --> 4749.80] longings of the human heart. -[4749.80 --> 4752.08] And so, -[4752.22 --> 4753.54] we see the story -[4753.54 --> 4754.68] of the king -[4754.68 --> 4756.16] filling out -[4756.16 --> 4756.86] or as it were, -[4756.96 --> 4758.08] fleshing out -[4758.08 --> 4759.54] a feast prepared -[4759.54 --> 4760.84] not with tokens -[4760.84 --> 4761.78] or symbols -[4761.78 --> 4764.52] but with his very self. -[4765.86 --> 4765.96] Right? -[4766.02 --> 4766.46] That the heart -[4766.46 --> 4767.28] of the heart -[4767.28 --> 4767.78] of the heart -[4767.78 --> 4768.44] the ache -[4768.44 --> 4769.08] for love -[4769.08 --> 4769.92] and for acceptance -[4769.92 --> 4770.78] and for meaning -[4770.78 --> 4771.74] is not met -[4771.74 --> 4772.42] with snacks -[4772.42 --> 4773.72] or temporary fixes -[4773.72 --> 4775.18] but with covenant fellowship -[4775.18 --> 4776.56] with Christ himself. -[4777.22 --> 4778.98] The king sets his table -[4778.98 --> 4780.28] in the bread -[4780.28 --> 4781.12] and in the cup -[4781.12 --> 4781.78] in the blood -[4781.78 --> 4782.38] of the covenant. -[4782.52 --> 4783.90] He offers something greater -[4783.90 --> 4785.58] than we could ever imagine. -[4786.74 --> 4787.60] His presence, -[4788.18 --> 4788.96] his life, -[4789.24 --> 4789.88] a promise -[4789.88 --> 4790.72] that satisfies -[4790.72 --> 4792.12] the deepest longings -[4792.12 --> 4792.98] of our hearts. -[4792.98 --> 4794.60] this is the feast -[4794.60 --> 4796.40] we were made for. -[4796.90 --> 4798.86] The true banquet of God -[4798.86 --> 4801.14] and every taste of it -[4801.14 --> 4803.52] points to the eternal joy -[4803.52 --> 4804.54] that will one day -[4804.54 --> 4806.16] be fully revealed. -[4807.96 --> 4809.14] Now, after Jesus -[4809.14 --> 4809.92] takes the bread -[4809.92 --> 4810.54] and the cup, -[4810.62 --> 4811.26] he declares, -[4811.74 --> 4812.92] this is my body -[4812.92 --> 4814.42] and this is my blood -[4814.42 --> 4815.60] of the covenant. -[4817.00 --> 4817.38] And again, -[4817.46 --> 4818.30] in doing this, -[4818.36 --> 4819.46] he's not setting -[4819.46 --> 4820.06] the table -[4820.06 --> 4821.16] of mere bread -[4821.16 --> 4822.46] and mere wine -[4822.46 --> 4824.40] but of himself. -[4825.72 --> 4826.16] Now, Matthew -[4826.16 --> 4827.12] is intentionally -[4827.12 --> 4829.18] echoing Exodus 24 -[4829.18 --> 4830.72] where we already saw -[4830.72 --> 4831.98] Moses ratified -[4831.98 --> 4832.84] the covenant -[4832.84 --> 4833.40] with the blood -[4833.40 --> 4834.08] of sacrifice -[4834.08 --> 4834.98] and ate with elders -[4834.98 --> 4836.40] and we're here seeing, -[4836.56 --> 4836.80] again, -[4836.96 --> 4838.00] Matthew underscoring -[4838.00 --> 4839.10] a point he has made -[4839.10 --> 4840.02] for us over -[4840.02 --> 4841.12] and over and over -[4841.12 --> 4842.66] that Jesus -[4842.66 --> 4843.38] is the true -[4843.38 --> 4844.68] and better Moses -[4844.68 --> 4845.82] and that the blood -[4845.82 --> 4847.18] that seals his covenant -[4847.18 --> 4848.02] is his own -[4848.02 --> 4848.90] and that the fellowship -[4848.90 --> 4849.76] that he offers -[4849.76 --> 4851.26] is unbreakable. -[4852.38 --> 4853.60] Every bite of bread, -[4853.70 --> 4854.86] every sip of wine -[4854.86 --> 4856.74] points to covenant life -[4856.74 --> 4858.14] with the king himself, -[4858.30 --> 4859.36] life that satisfies -[4859.36 --> 4861.22] what nothing else can do. -[4862.08 --> 4862.36] And again, -[4862.42 --> 4863.44] this isn't about rituals -[4863.44 --> 4864.28] or tokens, -[4864.28 --> 4865.66] it's about presence -[4865.66 --> 4866.28] and relationship -[4866.84 --> 4867.92] and invitation -[4867.92 --> 4869.44] into the reality -[4869.44 --> 4870.68] of God's kingdom, -[4871.44 --> 4872.10] a reality -[4872.10 --> 4873.42] that he is inviting you -[4873.42 --> 4875.12] to take into yourself. -[4875.12 --> 4879.98] And again, -[4880.28 --> 4881.64] for centuries, -[4882.70 --> 4883.72] Christians have wrestled -[4883.72 --> 4885.08] with how to explain -[4885.08 --> 4886.32] Christ's presence -[4886.32 --> 4887.10] in the supper. -[4889.40 --> 4890.98] And as I dig in here -[4890.98 --> 4891.70] a little more, -[4892.52 --> 4893.60] I want to be really careful -[4893.60 --> 4894.84] with my language -[4894.84 --> 4897.14] because I don't ordinarily -[4897.14 --> 4898.00] like to stand -[4898.00 --> 4898.62] in the pulpit -[4898.62 --> 4900.58] and call out divisions -[4900.58 --> 4902.20] in the church -[4902.20 --> 4904.02] because I really do believe -[4904.02 --> 4904.88] that we are living -[4904.88 --> 4905.52] in a time -[4905.52 --> 4906.14] and a place -[4906.14 --> 4907.26] where the church -[4907.26 --> 4908.40] is set in opposition -[4908.40 --> 4909.08] to culture -[4909.08 --> 4910.30] and the best response -[4910.30 --> 4911.04] that we can give -[4911.04 --> 4911.48] in that -[4911.48 --> 4913.08] is a united church. -[4914.50 --> 4915.64] But I do have to address -[4915.64 --> 4916.34] part of that -[4916.34 --> 4917.16] in our conversation -[4917.16 --> 4917.68] this morning -[4917.68 --> 4920.66] because as the church -[4920.66 --> 4921.76] continued to wrestle -[4921.76 --> 4922.78] with this idea, -[4923.72 --> 4924.44] theologians -[4924.44 --> 4925.40] in the Middle Ages -[4925.40 --> 4926.40] in the sort of -[4926.40 --> 4928.44] 10th to 13th century, -[4928.98 --> 4930.58] drawing on -[4930.58 --> 4931.92] a rediscovery -[4931.92 --> 4932.92] of the philosophy -[4932.92 --> 4933.92] of Aristotle, -[4934.72 --> 4935.66] developed what has -[4935.66 --> 4936.56] become known -[4936.56 --> 4937.38] in the Roman -[4937.38 --> 4937.96] Christian -[4937.96 --> 4939.70] as the doctrine -[4939.70 --> 4941.22] of transubstantiation. -[4942.62 --> 4943.80] Now, really quickly, -[4944.64 --> 4945.32] the doctrine -[4945.32 --> 4946.52] of transubstantiation -[4946.52 --> 4949.00] was codified, -[4949.12 --> 4949.94] was affirmed -[4949.94 --> 4952.36] in 1215 -[4952.36 --> 4954.24] at the Fourth Lateran Council. -[4954.60 --> 4955.04] But here, -[4955.18 --> 4956.86] that's 12 centuries -[4956.86 --> 4960.18] after the text -[4960.18 --> 4960.72] of Scripture -[4960.72 --> 4961.72] was written. -[4962.26 --> 4962.70] Later, -[4963.24 --> 4964.20] the Council of Trent, -[4964.30 --> 4964.76] which happened -[4964.76 --> 4965.78] after the Reformation -[4965.78 --> 4966.44] in response -[4966.44 --> 4967.26] to the Reformation, -[4967.78 --> 4968.76] took it even further -[4968.76 --> 4970.20] and elevated -[4970.20 --> 4971.14] the doctrine -[4971.14 --> 4972.56] of transubstantiation -[4972.56 --> 4973.88] and pronounced -[4973.88 --> 4974.98] an anathema -[4974.98 --> 4976.06] on anyone -[4976.06 --> 4976.88] who denied it. -[4977.52 --> 4978.34] Now, an anathema -[4978.34 --> 4980.24] in Roman Catholic doctrine -[4980.24 --> 4981.60] is a formal -[4981.60 --> 4982.82] excommunication. -[4983.82 --> 4984.78] What that means -[4984.78 --> 4985.16] is people -[4985.16 --> 4986.20] who don't believe it -[4986.20 --> 4987.22] are declared -[4987.22 --> 4988.68] to be not Christian. -[4991.36 --> 4992.78] Now, as we dig in, -[4993.12 --> 4993.68] it's important -[4993.68 --> 4994.44] for me to say -[4994.44 --> 4996.38] that this doctrine -[4996.38 --> 4997.72] of transubstantiation -[4997.72 --> 4999.00] is not invented -[4999.00 --> 4999.84] from nothing. -[5000.74 --> 5001.12] That is, -[5001.18 --> 5002.20] it's an explanation -[5002.20 --> 5003.44] of a faith -[5003.44 --> 5004.56] that was already held, -[5004.94 --> 5006.86] but it did represent -[5006.86 --> 5007.64] a shift. -[5009.26 --> 5009.58] Right? -[5009.64 --> 5010.34] What had once -[5010.34 --> 5011.56] been a mystery -[5011.56 --> 5013.22] embraced in worship -[5013.22 --> 5015.22] became a mechanism -[5015.22 --> 5017.76] explained in philosophy. -[5019.30 --> 5020.08] Now, again, -[5020.50 --> 5021.36] let me be really clear. -[5021.46 --> 5022.22] There's nothing wrong -[5022.22 --> 5023.80] with faith-seeking -[5023.80 --> 5024.52] understanding. -[5024.90 --> 5025.56] There's nothing wrong -[5025.56 --> 5026.44] with philosophy. -[5026.84 --> 5028.02] My undergraduate degree -[5028.02 --> 5029.38] is a minor in philosophy. -[5029.96 --> 5031.22] But what happened here -[5031.22 --> 5031.86] and what I think -[5031.86 --> 5032.92] the problem here -[5032.92 --> 5034.18] is the church -[5034.18 --> 5036.10] made this particular -[5036.10 --> 5038.20] philosophical explanation -[5038.20 --> 5039.52] binding -[5039.52 --> 5041.54] on all consciences. -[5041.54 --> 5042.98] Right? -[5043.02 --> 5043.96] The Council of Trent -[5043.96 --> 5045.46] elevated a human -[5045.46 --> 5046.28] explanation -[5046.28 --> 5047.98] of the difference -[5047.98 --> 5048.78] between substance -[5048.78 --> 5049.78] and accidents, -[5049.88 --> 5051.02] which gets into Aristotle. -[5051.28 --> 5052.28] They elevated that -[5052.28 --> 5053.00] to the level -[5053.00 --> 5054.50] of necessary dogma. -[5055.60 --> 5056.16] What had been -[5056.16 --> 5057.76] a mystery of faith -[5057.76 --> 5058.24] became, -[5058.68 --> 5059.04] for them, -[5059.12 --> 5060.50] a test of orthodoxy. -[5061.70 --> 5062.48] And instead of -[5062.48 --> 5063.42] uniting the church -[5063.42 --> 5064.56] in a biblical confession -[5064.56 --> 5065.54] and doxology, -[5065.98 --> 5067.48] it narrowed the church -[5067.48 --> 5069.32] around Aristotelian -[5069.32 --> 5069.96] categories. -[5069.96 --> 5073.60] And I hope you're seeing -[5073.60 --> 5074.86] that at the heart -[5074.86 --> 5076.38] of the problem here -[5076.38 --> 5077.88] is that the supper -[5077.88 --> 5080.12] is not first about mechanics -[5080.12 --> 5081.48] or about philosophy. -[5082.04 --> 5083.54] It's about the king -[5083.54 --> 5084.58] offering himself -[5084.58 --> 5085.38] to his people. -[5086.64 --> 5088.06] And when the explanation -[5088.06 --> 5089.56] of how that happened -[5089.56 --> 5090.98] becomes the measure -[5090.98 --> 5092.30] of faith, -[5092.66 --> 5094.66] it risks eclipsing -[5094.66 --> 5096.14] the very Christ -[5096.14 --> 5098.90] intended to be seen. -[5098.90 --> 5100.28] the very gift -[5100.28 --> 5101.30] intended to be given, -[5101.40 --> 5102.46] that of covenant life, -[5102.60 --> 5103.50] of satisfaction -[5103.50 --> 5104.70] for the soul -[5104.70 --> 5105.42] and of fellowship -[5105.42 --> 5106.40] with God. -[5107.48 --> 5107.86] And again, -[5107.92 --> 5109.06] the earliest church -[5109.06 --> 5110.02] understood this. -[5110.48 --> 5111.60] And it's my contention -[5111.60 --> 5112.62] that the Reformation -[5112.62 --> 5113.98] reclaimed this. -[5114.90 --> 5115.10] Right? -[5115.12 --> 5115.78] That the Reformed -[5115.78 --> 5116.44] understanding -[5116.44 --> 5118.10] is actually more in line -[5118.10 --> 5119.04] with the church fathers -[5119.04 --> 5120.90] and also more in line -[5120.90 --> 5121.72] with the mystery -[5121.72 --> 5122.80] of the Bible -[5122.80 --> 5124.12] as it talks about -[5124.12 --> 5125.22] the supper for us. -[5126.32 --> 5126.52] Right? -[5126.52 --> 5128.90] The supper is the king's feast, -[5129.00 --> 5129.84] a covenant meal -[5129.84 --> 5131.48] where the deepest longings -[5131.48 --> 5132.18] of our heart -[5132.18 --> 5134.06] are met by Christ's presence -[5134.06 --> 5136.30] in real, relational, -[5136.66 --> 5138.46] and transformative ways. -[5139.34 --> 5140.06] But how? -[5141.18 --> 5143.04] I dare not speak that mystery. -[5146.04 --> 5147.72] Now, Jesus closes this meal -[5147.72 --> 5149.44] with a promise. -[5149.44 --> 5151.52] He says, -[5151.66 --> 5152.88] I will not drink again -[5152.88 --> 5154.28] of this fruit of the vine -[5154.28 --> 5155.20] until that day -[5155.20 --> 5156.14] when I drink it new -[5156.14 --> 5157.00] with you -[5157.00 --> 5158.18] in my Father's kingdom. -[5159.30 --> 5160.54] The covenant meal -[5160.54 --> 5162.06] points forward -[5162.06 --> 5164.24] to that final banquet, -[5164.40 --> 5165.98] to that wedding feast -[5165.98 --> 5166.56] of the Lamb -[5166.56 --> 5167.26] that we read about -[5167.26 --> 5168.46] in Revelation 19. -[5169.04 --> 5170.94] What began at Sinai, -[5171.12 --> 5172.00] anticipated through -[5172.00 --> 5173.24] the blood of sacrifice, -[5173.58 --> 5174.48] what is fulfilled -[5174.48 --> 5175.70] in Christ Jesus, -[5175.88 --> 5177.26] now draws us -[5177.26 --> 5178.96] to covenant fellowship -[5178.96 --> 5180.58] and foreshadowing -[5180.58 --> 5182.18] that eternal joy -[5182.18 --> 5184.30] of that fully realized -[5184.30 --> 5186.44] final kingdom of God -[5186.44 --> 5187.14] in the restoration -[5187.14 --> 5188.54] of all things. -[5189.26 --> 5190.40] Every celebration -[5190.40 --> 5192.10] of this meal -[5192.10 --> 5193.68] invites us -[5193.68 --> 5195.52] to taste and see -[5195.52 --> 5197.16] the king's presence -[5197.16 --> 5198.70] and reminds us -[5198.70 --> 5199.38] that the hunger -[5199.38 --> 5200.26] of the meal -[5200.26 --> 5201.44] in this life -[5201.44 --> 5202.64] is not meaningless, -[5203.06 --> 5203.88] but rather it is -[5203.88 --> 5204.50] a pointer -[5204.50 --> 5205.64] to the feast -[5205.64 --> 5206.86] that God has prepared, -[5207.40 --> 5208.24] a promise -[5208.24 --> 5209.46] that one day -[5209.46 --> 5211.46] will be fully realized. -[5213.54 --> 5214.78] So here we are -[5214.78 --> 5217.00] in the story -[5217.00 --> 5220.26] striving to behold -[5220.26 --> 5221.66] our king. -[5223.24 --> 5225.00] We all carry a hunger. -[5226.18 --> 5227.66] We all chase comfort -[5227.66 --> 5228.70] and approval. -[5229.12 --> 5229.84] We all long -[5229.84 --> 5230.58] for success -[5230.58 --> 5231.50] or connection, -[5231.98 --> 5233.22] hoping that one bite -[5233.22 --> 5234.34] or one achievement -[5234.34 --> 5235.88] will finally satisfy. -[5237.08 --> 5237.92] And like the parent -[5237.92 --> 5239.12] who works long hours -[5239.12 --> 5241.00] yet still feels lonely, -[5241.14 --> 5241.92] like the young adult -[5241.92 --> 5242.90] who's scrolling -[5242.90 --> 5243.92] for validation, -[5244.42 --> 5246.02] like even the caterpillar -[5246.02 --> 5246.94] who's moving -[5246.94 --> 5247.72] from one thing -[5247.72 --> 5248.32] to the next, -[5248.66 --> 5249.32] eating more -[5249.32 --> 5250.10] and eating more -[5250.10 --> 5251.68] and still feeling empty, -[5251.82 --> 5252.76] our lives -[5252.76 --> 5254.16] are full of snacks -[5254.16 --> 5256.54] that never truly feed us. -[5257.80 --> 5258.70] But Jesus, -[5259.36 --> 5259.84] Jesus, -[5260.48 --> 5261.50] in his word -[5261.50 --> 5263.22] and at his table, -[5263.22 --> 5264.52] meets us -[5264.52 --> 5265.50] with a feast -[5265.50 --> 5267.06] unlike anything -[5267.06 --> 5268.56] the world can offer. -[5270.34 --> 5272.24] And at that last supper, -[5272.54 --> 5273.64] he offers us -[5273.64 --> 5275.20] his very self, -[5275.34 --> 5276.34] bread and wine -[5276.34 --> 5278.36] made covenant blood -[5278.36 --> 5279.32] that secures -[5279.32 --> 5280.84] unbreakable fellowship -[5280.84 --> 5281.92] with God, -[5282.56 --> 5283.38] a presence -[5283.38 --> 5284.58] that satisfies -[5284.58 --> 5286.20] the deepest longings -[5286.20 --> 5287.24] of our heart. -[5287.24 --> 5288.24] God, -[5288.24 --> 5293.62] the king has set -[5293.62 --> 5294.28] his table -[5294.28 --> 5296.30] not just for a moment -[5296.30 --> 5298.26] but for eternity. -[5299.64 --> 5300.60] The church -[5300.60 --> 5301.42] has called it -[5301.42 --> 5303.22] a holy mystery. -[5304.02 --> 5304.86] Calvin called it -[5304.86 --> 5306.00] something to be -[5306.00 --> 5307.06] received -[5307.06 --> 5308.46] rather than solved. -[5309.06 --> 5309.70] And the scriptures -[5309.70 --> 5310.38] show us -[5310.38 --> 5311.84] that this covenant meal -[5311.84 --> 5313.20] points us towards -[5313.20 --> 5314.66] the eternal banquet -[5314.66 --> 5315.68] of the Lamb. -[5315.68 --> 5318.06] all of our longing, -[5318.66 --> 5320.24] all of our unquenched hunger, -[5320.42 --> 5321.94] all of the empty feasts -[5321.94 --> 5322.88] that we have tried -[5322.88 --> 5324.52] to fill ourselves with, -[5324.60 --> 5325.84] all of those things -[5325.84 --> 5327.58] find their answer -[5327.58 --> 5329.56] in Christ alone. -[5331.14 --> 5332.64] Like that little caterpillar, -[5332.80 --> 5334.22] our endless snacking -[5334.22 --> 5335.80] never transforms us. -[5336.02 --> 5337.12] Only when we come -[5337.12 --> 5338.00] to the right food -[5338.00 --> 5338.78] at the right time, -[5338.84 --> 5339.84] to the true food, -[5340.14 --> 5341.64] to Jesus Christ himself, -[5341.78 --> 5343.02] are we changed -[5343.02 --> 5344.70] into what we are meant -[5344.70 --> 5345.58] to be. -[5346.30 --> 5347.66] The ache in our hearts, -[5348.44 --> 5349.20] the yearning -[5349.20 --> 5349.88] that we have felt -[5349.88 --> 5350.76] our whole lives -[5350.76 --> 5351.96] is not a mistake -[5351.96 --> 5353.18] nor is it a weakness. -[5353.48 --> 5354.12] It is God -[5354.12 --> 5355.84] pointing to himself -[5355.84 --> 5357.58] in us. -[5358.66 --> 5359.60] The king has set -[5359.60 --> 5360.28] his table -[5360.28 --> 5361.74] and in his presence -[5361.74 --> 5362.86] the hunger is met, -[5363.32 --> 5364.70] the longing is answered, -[5364.96 --> 5366.08] and the promise -[5366.08 --> 5366.76] of life -[5366.76 --> 5368.18] is made real. -[5368.18 --> 5371.90] And so we leave -[5371.90 --> 5372.68] this story -[5372.68 --> 5374.92] not really with a question -[5374.92 --> 5376.88] about what we still lack, -[5377.88 --> 5380.04] but I pray in an awe -[5380.04 --> 5381.98] and with a sense -[5381.98 --> 5383.12] of mystery -[5383.12 --> 5384.68] about what we have -[5384.68 --> 5385.24] been given. -[5386.72 --> 5387.96] The hunger in your heart -[5387.96 --> 5388.66] is not a call -[5388.66 --> 5389.28] to desperation, -[5389.28 --> 5390.54] it is an invitation -[5390.54 --> 5391.68] to your king. -[5392.38 --> 5393.18] Every ache -[5393.18 --> 5394.00] and every longing, -[5394.18 --> 5395.34] every unfulfilled desire -[5395.34 --> 5396.84] points to the feast -[5396.84 --> 5398.16] that he prepares for you. -[5399.26 --> 5400.26] The king's table -[5400.26 --> 5400.76] is ready. -[5401.84 --> 5402.40] The feast -[5402.40 --> 5403.16] is for you. -[5403.52 --> 5403.98] The hunger -[5403.98 --> 5404.68] in your heart, -[5404.76 --> 5405.72] the one that no promotion -[5405.72 --> 5406.44] or relationship -[5406.44 --> 5407.12] or scrolling -[5407.12 --> 5407.82] can ever fill, -[5408.16 --> 5409.82] finds its feast -[5409.82 --> 5411.30] at the king's table -[5411.30 --> 5413.24] where Jesus himself -[5413.24 --> 5413.96] is the bread -[5413.96 --> 5414.74] that satisfies -[5414.74 --> 5416.14] and the presence -[5416.14 --> 5417.10] that transforms. -[5418.26 --> 5418.84] The king -[5418.84 --> 5420.20] has set his table -[5420.20 --> 5422.02] and in his presence -[5422.02 --> 5423.12] every longing -[5423.12 --> 5424.78] finds its feast, -[5425.00 --> 5425.66] every ache, -[5425.66 --> 5426.72] its answer -[5426.72 --> 5428.04] and every heart -[5428.04 --> 5429.90] its home. -[5430.92 --> 5431.22] Amen. -[5432.12 --> 5433.20] Let's pray together. -[5440.08 --> 5441.48] Lord Jesus, -[5442.14 --> 5444.00] by your Holy Spirit -[5444.00 --> 5445.00] and the power -[5445.00 --> 5445.72] of your word, -[5446.24 --> 5447.68] both captivate -[5447.68 --> 5448.74] and transform -[5448.74 --> 5450.44] our imaginations -[5450.44 --> 5451.50] today. -[5451.50 --> 5455.56] help us to -[5455.56 --> 5457.20] get a little bit -[5457.20 --> 5457.88] of a glimpse -[5457.88 --> 5459.08] into the mystery -[5459.08 --> 5460.60] of the supper, -[5461.18 --> 5462.20] into the mystery -[5462.20 --> 5463.48] of your word, -[5463.66 --> 5464.54] into the mystery -[5464.54 --> 5465.66] of how you make -[5465.66 --> 5466.58] yourself known -[5466.58 --> 5467.60] to us. -[5469.28 --> 5470.42] And as we go -[5470.42 --> 5471.40] from this place, -[5472.08 --> 5473.08] may our longing -[5473.08 --> 5474.12] for that great -[5474.12 --> 5475.78] and final feast -[5475.78 --> 5476.50] be grown. -[5476.50 --> 5477.62] grown. -[5478.82 --> 5479.72] May our longing -[5479.72 --> 5480.58] for that great -[5480.58 --> 5482.12] day of the Lord, -[5482.22 --> 5482.70] that day -[5482.70 --> 5483.88] of your return -[5483.88 --> 5485.40] be drawn -[5485.40 --> 5486.14] forward -[5486.14 --> 5488.90] and draw out -[5488.90 --> 5489.50] of us -[5489.50 --> 5490.46] in this moment -[5490.46 --> 5491.26] and in the days -[5491.26 --> 5491.70] and weeks -[5491.70 --> 5492.28] and moments -[5492.28 --> 5492.90] to come -[5492.90 --> 5494.12] a heart -[5494.12 --> 5495.56] that worships -[5495.56 --> 5496.76] and marvels -[5496.76 --> 5497.64] at the mystery -[5497.64 --> 5499.12] of our faith. -[5499.12 --> 5502.62] Lord Jesus, -[5503.12 --> 5504.48] as we have -[5504.48 --> 5505.22] heard you, -[5506.18 --> 5506.96] as we have -[5506.96 --> 5507.68] seen you, -[5508.36 --> 5509.22] and as we long -[5509.22 --> 5510.00] to see more -[5510.00 --> 5510.44] of you, -[5511.36 --> 5512.20] send us out -[5512.20 --> 5513.00] in the power -[5513.00 --> 5514.20] of your Holy Spirit -[5514.20 --> 5514.72] now. -[5515.22 --> 5516.40] In Jesus' name, -[5517.40 --> 5517.74] Amen. -[5517.74 --> 5517.84] Amen. -[5529.12 --> 5529.66] Amen. -[5535.84 --> 5536.26] Amen. -[5541.76 --> 5541.92] Amen. -[5546.28 --> 5548.16] Amen. -[5549.46 --> 5549.78] You stood -[5549.78 --> 5552.82] before creation -[5552.82 --> 5556.14] eternity -[5556.14 --> 5558.36] in your hand -[5559.12 --> 5565.30] You spoke the earth into motion -[5565.30 --> 5570.16] My soul now to stand -[5570.16 --> 5578.10] You stood before my failure -[5578.10 --> 5585.14] And carried the cross for my shame -[5585.14 --> 5591.02] My sin weighed upon your shoulders -[5591.02 --> 5594.60] My soul now to stand -[5594.60 --> 5600.84] So what can I say? -[5602.98 --> 5607.26] What can I do? -[5607.26 --> 5615.72] I offer this heart, O God -[5615.72 --> 5621.72] Completely to you -[5621.72 --> 5628.76] Walk upon salvation -[5628.76 --> 5635.54] Your spirit alive in me -[5635.54 --> 5641.36] My life to declare your promise -[5641.36 --> 5644.94] My soul now to stand -[5644.94 --> 5650.96] So what can I say? -[5650.96 --> 5656.84] What can I do? -[5659.42 --> 5664.42] But offer this heart, O God -[5664.42 --> 5670.42] Completely to you -[5670.42 --> 5675.88] So what can I say? -[5675.88 --> 5681.88] What can I do? -[5681.88 --> 5689.88] But offer this heart, O God -[5689.88 --> 5694.88] Completely to you -[5694.88 --> 5707.34] So I'll stand -[5707.34 --> 5711.42] With arms high and heart abandoned -[5711.42 --> 5718.34] In awe of the one who gave it all -[5718.34 --> 5719.80] I'll stand -[5719.80 --> 5720.30] I'll stand -[5720.30 --> 5722.36] My soul, Lord -[5722.36 --> 5722.90] To you -[5722.90 --> 5723.80] Surrender -[5723.80 --> 5728.26] All I am is yours -[5728.26 --> 5732.26] I'll stand -[5732.26 --> 5736.26] With arms high and heart abandoned -[5736.26 --> 5742.86] In awe of the one who gave it all -[5742.86 --> 5744.26] I'll stand -[5744.26 --> 5746.26] My soul, Lord -[5746.26 --> 5747.26] To you -[5747.26 --> 5748.34] Surrender -[5748.34 --> 5752.80] All I am is yours -[5752.80 --> 5756.80] I'll stand -[5756.80 --> 5760.80] With arms high and heart abandoned -[5760.80 --> 5766.80] In awe of the one who gave it all -[5766.80 --> 5768.80] I'll stand -[5768.80 --> 5770.80] My soul, Lord -[5770.80 --> 5772.30] To you -[5772.30 --> 5772.80] Surrender -[5772.80 --> 5776.80] All I am is yours -[5776.80 --> 5797.34] Together we stand -[5797.34 --> 5799.64] And together we are sent -[5799.64 --> 5806.12] Commissioned to minister the presence of Jesus to the world -[5806.12 --> 5808.92] And so God himself goes with us -[5808.92 --> 5811.54] Receive the blessing of our God -[5811.54 --> 5812.70] As we go -[5812.70 --> 5815.74] God go before you -[5815.74 --> 5816.84] To lead you -[5816.84 --> 5818.82] God go behind you -[5818.82 --> 5819.96] To protect you -[5819.96 --> 5821.76] God go beneath you -[5821.76 --> 5822.76] To support you -[5822.76 --> 5824.52] And God go beside you -[5824.52 --> 5825.66] To befriend you -[5825.66 --> 5828.34] Do not be afraid -[5828.34 --> 5831.10] Let the blessing of God come upon you today -[5831.10 --> 5832.76] Do not be afraid -[5832.76 --> 5833.98] But go -[5833.98 --> 5835.28] In peace -[5835.28 --> 5836.12] To love -[5836.12 --> 5837.06] And serve -[5837.06 --> 5837.84] The Lord -[5837.84 --> 5839.38] Amen -[5839.38 --> 5862.80] What can wash away my sin? -[5862.80 --> 5866.80] Nothing but the blood of Jesus -[5866.80 --> 5871.26] What can make me whole again? -[5871.26 --> 5874.76] Nothing but the blood of Jesus -[5874.76 --> 5879.10] Oh, precious is the flow -[5879.10 --> 5883.04] That makes me white as snow -[5883.04 --> 5884.34] All you -[5884.34 --> 5887.04] No longer felt I know -[5887.04 --> 5890.58] Nothing but the blood of Jesus -[5890.58 --> 5897.92] For my pardon this I see -[5897.92 --> 5901.54] Nothing but the blood of Jesus -[5901.54 --> 5905.84] For my cleansing this I flee -[5905.84 --> 5909.54] Nothing but the blood of Jesus -[5909.54 --> 5913.86] Oh, precious is the flow -[5913.86 --> 5917.78] That makes me white as snow -[5917.78 --> 5921.74] No other belt I know -[5921.74 --> 5925.44] Nothing but the blood of Jesus -[5925.44 --> 5932.98] Nothing can for sin atone -[5932.98 --> 5936.54] Nothing but the blood of Jesus -[5936.54 --> 5940.54] Not of good that I have done -[5940.54 --> 5944.54] Nothing but the blood of Jesus -[5944.54 --> 5946.54] Nothing but the blood of Jesus -[5946.54 --> 5948.54] Oh, precious is the flow -[5948.54 --> 5952.54] That makes me white as snow -[5952.54 --> 5956.54] No other belt I know -[5956.54 --> 5958.54] Nothing but the blood of Jesus -[5958.54 --> 5972.64] Nothing but the blood of Jesus -[5972.64 --> 5980.06] This is all my righteousness, nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[5980.06 --> 5988.50] Oh, precious is the flow that makes me white and blue. -[5989.04 --> 5996.10] Oh, no other count I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[5996.10 --> 6004.82] Oh, precious is the flow that makes me white as snow. -[6004.82 --> 6014.32] Oh, no other count I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[6026.10 --> 6041.10] Oh, no other count I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[6041.10 --> 6049.10] Oh, no other count I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus. -[6049.10 --> 6072.38] Colossus game I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus -[6072.38 --> 6102.36] Thank you. -[6102.38 --> 6132.36] Thank you. -[6132.38 --> 6162.36] Thank you. -[6162.38 --> 6192.36] Thank you. -[6192.38 --> 6222.36] Thank you. -[6222.38 --> 6252.36] Thank you. -[6252.38 --> 6282.36] Thank you. -[6282.38 --> 6312.36] Thank you. -[6312.38 --> 6342.36] Thank you. -[6342.38 --> 6372.36] Thank you. -[6372.38 --> 6402.36] Thank you. -[6402.38 --> 6432.36] Thank you. -[6432.38 --> 6462.36] Thank you. -[6462.38 --> 6492.36] Thank you. -[6492.38 --> 6522.36] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, August 31, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, August 31, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a5479881937f3bf89645c12738dc67da6610866f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, August 31, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,106 +0,0 @@ -• Discussion of creation and the power of God -• Questions about understanding the nature of God and one's relationship with Him -• Reflection on faith, hope, and trust in Jesus as redeemer and Savior -• Expression of gratitude for salvation and spiritual freedom -• Affirmation of dependence on Christ and recognition that true strength comes from Him -• Instructions on accessing worship lyrics -• Upcoming events: - • Worship at Topham Park (potluck picnic) - • Reactivate event (youth and leaders from B.C.) - • Worship at Sunridge Gardens (seniors living facility) - • Worship conference in October -• Volunteering for upcoming events -• Children's worship time starting up in a couple weeks -• Backpack campaign still ongoing to help pay for delivered backpacks -• Worship and emotions -• Bringing all aspects of life into God's presence -• Passing the peace of Christ -• Call to worship from Psalm 9 -• Singing about God's love and goodness -• Song lyrics about experiencing God's goodness throughout life -• Themes of faithfulness, goodness, and surrender -• The name of Jesus is beautiful and powerful -• Jesus brought heaven down to earth through his love and sacrifice -• Death could not hold Jesus, and he rose to life again -• Jesus has no rival or equal, and reigns forever as God -• The name of Jesus brings forgiveness, mercy, and abundant life -• Prayer and confession are encouraged, trusting in God's grace and love -• Song or hymn about redemption and God's love -• Story about a ministry (Life Water Canada) providing support to people in need around the world -• Discussion of inequality in access to basic necessities like healthcare and hygiene -• Introduction of Linda from Life Water Canada, who shares stories from her travels -• A volunteer shares a story about Elizabeth, an older woman in Liberia who was weeping during a workshop because she had learned that giving her baby contaminated water led to its death. -• The volunteer explains that this experience had a lasting impact on Elizabeth, as she later used the knowledge gained from the workshop to help another infant recover from illness. -• The importance of education and knowledge in preventing waterborne illnesses is highlighted, and statistics about the global water crisis are shared (2 billion people lack safe drinking water, 3 billion lack safe sanitation). -• The organization has made significant progress in providing safe water, sanitation, and education, with over 9.5 million people impacted. -• A new initiative addressing period poverty among girls is also discussed, including a microenterprise started to provide sanitary pads and reduce unplanned pregnancies. -• The organization is working in four nations: Kenya, Liberia, Nigeria, and Haiti -• All four countries are very poor and lack government support for basic necessities like water and sanitation -• The organization has been working in these countries for 30 years, with multiple teams in each location -• They have incorporated new technologies and innovations to reach remote areas -• A new, maneuverable rig is being tested that can drill wells in hard-to-reach places -• A three-wheeled motorcycle rig is also being used to drill wells on the sea and in difficult terrain -• The organization's work has made a significant impact, with many people having access to clean water for the first time -• The local teams are trained and equipped to facilitate ownership and community involvement in the projects -• Sponsorships and facilitation from organizations like the church have enabled the continuation of the work. -• Discussion of an upcoming event in Abuja and Lagos -• Invitation for attendees to sign up or ask questions at the back -• Announcement of a financial gift to Cascade Christian Counseling -• Explanation of how Cascade Christian Counseling provides affordable mental health services -• Appreciation for donations to support those who cannot afford counseling -• Children's worship time announcement -• Prayer before children's worship time -• Children's blessing ceremony -• Personal prayer and announcements, including condolences for a passing family member and mentions of people dealing with illnesses or missing loved ones -• Discussion about Kevin Lobert's humility as a pastor -• Upcoming meeting to discuss whether Kevin should stay or not -• Prayer for various groups and individuals, including shut-ins, those dealing with loss, kids, teachers, and school system workers -• Announcement of the conclusion of the summer series "Behold Your King" from Matthew 28 -• Reading from Matthew 28:1-10 -• Common themes in storytelling include death and the struggle against it -• Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows explores this theme with Voldemort's attempt to avoid death and Harry's willingness to face it -• The story touches on a deeper human longing for a victory over death, rather than just delaying or distracting from it -• This longing is universal and ancient, as seen in J.R.R. Tolkien's concept of the eucatastrophe (the happy ending that breaks into tragedy) -• The Gospel of Jesus addresses this longing by proclaiming that death has been swallowed up in victory through Jesus' resurrection -• The death and resurrection of Jesus secure our salvation -• The cross may appear to be a failure, but it's actually the path to victory -• Sin is not something that can be waved away, it requires a substitute who is fully human and fully divine -• Jesus chose the will of his Father and willingly accepted the cross as a necessary act to fulfill God's justice and keep His promise -• The eternal plan of God was carried out in time and space through the cross and resurrection. -• Jesus' death on the cross was not an accident, but a fulfillment of the promise of Psalm 22. -• Salvation doesn't rest on chance or human strength, but on what Jesus said must happen and his choice to walk the road to the cross. -• The cross is both necessary for justice and chosen in love by God. -• The resurrection is indispensable because it reveals the cross as a victory and not a failure. -• Death's power was broken through Jesus' resurrection. -• The story of the resurrection cannot be silenced due to three reasons (not specified in the list, but mentioned in the transcript). -• Women were the first eyewitnesses of Jesus' resurrection in Matthew 28. -• In ancient culture, women's testimony was not admissible in court, making it unlikely to fabricate a story with them as the primary witnesses. -• The disciples' transformation from frightened deserters to bold witnesses willing to die for their faith supports the truth of the resurrection. -• Early Christianity gained persecution rather than influence by proclaiming Jesus' resurrection. -• The story would be counterproductive if fabricated to secure power or status, making it credible that it is true. -• Believing in the resurrection is not just reasonable but existentially satisfying as it fulfills humanity's deepest longings for meaning and justice. -• Salvation comes through the combination of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. -• Death's power is defeated by Jesus' holiness -• The resurrection transforms everything, including death -• The deepest human longing for victory over death is satisfied through Jesus -• The resurrection is not just an event, but a reality that we share in -• The Gospel message is not just about individual salvation, but about the remaking of the entire cosmos -• The resurrection requires public witness and proclamation to all nations -• The substitutionary death of Jesus secures cosmic renewal and his resurrection is creation's hope for restoration. -• The resurrection is not just personal salvation but also the liberation of all creation from decay. -• Jesus' mission to restore creation is now continued by believers, who participate in the cosmic renewal by living as those who belong to a world of new creation. -• The cross is necessary for victory over death and sin, and the resurrection proves that life is secure. -• Believers are sent on mission to proclaim the gospel and live as witnesses to Jesus Christ. -• The mission is an invitation rather than a burden, and believers are sent with the authority and presence of Jesus. -• Worshiping Jesus as Savior, Lord, and King -• Praise for the crown of gold on Jesus' hand -• Thanksgiving for the sacrifice on Calvary's end -• Redemption through Jesus' story written on His hands -• Reign of Jesus forevermore and victory over death -• Offering up sacrifice for every sin -• Resurrection of God from the grave -• Sending out with power of God, Holy Spirit, and resurrection -• Blessing and protection on journey ahead -• Praise to God's glory, honor, and power -• Prolonged repetition of the word "Alleluia" -• Prolonged repetition of the phrase "Thank you" \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, August 31, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, August 31, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index cf4febab3bfe53875b7c4a88c9e85dc22e35e948..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, August 31, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1357 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 5.10] Where were you the day that I measured? -[6.02 --> 10.16] Sung the bass and stretched the line over -[10.16 --> 15.88] All the earth and carved out its cornerstone -[15.88 --> 25.60] Where were you the day that I spoke and -[25.60 --> 30.26] Told the sun to split the night open -[30.26 --> 35.92] Called the morning dawn with its light to shore -[35.92 --> 45.70] Who shot empty ocean with stone doors -[45.70 --> 50.70] Marked the reach of tides on those new shores -[50.70 --> 55.86] On the day the waves rose and first broke forth -[55.86 --> 64.94] Have you seen the springs of that gray sea? -[65.42 --> 69.50] Walked the caverns carved in the black sea -[69.50 --> 74.58] Through the gates of darkness there on its floor -[74.58 --> 83.44] Have you seen the armory I hold? -[83.74 --> 87.62] Snow and hail are stacked up in silos -[87.62 --> 92.86] For the times of trouble and war and strife -[92.86 --> 101.32] Can you raise your voice to the storm cloud? -[101.32 --> 105.48] Would the thunder answer and ring out? -[106.00 --> 110.48] Does the lightning ask you where it should strike? -[114.48 --> 118.32] Who has cleft a channel for torrents? -[119.04 --> 122.32] Rain to sprout the desert with forest -[122.88 --> 127.76] In the wilderness that my hand has filled -[127.76 --> 135.64] Can you hunt the prey for young lions? -[135.64 --> 139.42] Can you lose the cords of all riders? -[140.28 --> 142.92] Is this whole world bending me? -[143.16 --> 144.60] Need your will? -[147.10 --> 152.70] I spoke of things I did not understand -[152.70 --> 158.14] Things too wonderful for me -[158.14 --> 162.58] Although I have no right to act -[162.58 --> 167.52] My God knelt and answered me -[167.52 --> 167.86] Amen -[167.86 --> 171.12] What gift of grace should be -[171.34 --> 171.96] God. -[173.80 --> 174.40] Gracious go benefit. -[178.62 --> 180.74] Thank you so much! -[180.90 --> 184.80] Thank you so much for watching -[187.04 --> 188.24] We're gonna ride and share a little heart -[188.24 --> 192.34] Can you feel that I've seen on this Lös ineff wasn't -[192.54 --> 193.18] Thy leg a newange -[193.18 --> 193.80] I listen kiss -[193.80 --> 195.70] husband I think what else do I want -[195.70 --> 198.70] He is Jesus, my redeemer. -[199.62 --> 205.14] There is no more for heaven now to give. -[206.32 --> 211.80] He is my joy, my righteousness, and freedom. -[213.22 --> 218.54] My steadfast love, my deep and balanced peace. -[219.40 --> 225.42] To this I go, my hope is only Jesus. -[225.70 --> 231.52] Oh, my love is holy down to me. -[231.52 --> 238.52] Oh, how strange and divine I can see. -[238.52 --> 241.60] All is one yet another. -[242.10 --> 244.74] There's no Christ in me. -[255.70 --> 262.10] The night is up, but I am not forsaken. -[262.10 --> 268.46] For by my side, the Savior, He will save. -[269.42 --> 275.10] I labor on in weakness and rejoicing. -[276.40 --> 281.54] For in my need, His power is displayed. -[281.54 --> 289.26] To this I hold, my shepherd will defend me. -[289.62 --> 295.16] Through the deepest valley, He will lead. -[296.94 --> 303.48] Oh, the night has been won, and I shall overcome. -[303.66 --> 308.30] Yet not I, earth who crossed in me. -[311.54 --> 319.36] I wish I could do Jesus. -[319.36 --> 320.96] You know, faith is fine. -[320.96 --> 325.12] I know I am ? -[325.12 --> 331.78] The future's sure, the price has been paid. -[331.78 --> 338.80] For Jesus bled and suffered for my pardon -[338.80 --> 345.34] And he was raised to all his foes of grace -[345.34 --> 352.08] To this I hold my sin has been defeated -[352.08 --> 358.46] Jesus now and ever is my plea -[358.46 --> 363.28] Oh, the chains are released -[363.28 --> 366.76] I can sing I am free -[366.76 --> 372.00] And not I, but through Christ in me -[372.00 --> 388.44] With every breath I long to follow Jesus -[388.46 --> 395.06] For he has said that he will wait me home -[395.06 --> 402.76] And day by day I know he will renew me -[402.76 --> 408.62] Until I stand with joy before the Lord -[408.62 --> 416.16] To this I hold my hope is only Jesus -[416.16 --> 421.78] Oh, the glory evermore to me -[421.78 --> 426.60] When the race is complete -[426.60 --> 430.18] To my lips shall be defeated -[430.18 --> 435.00] Yet not I, but through Christ in me -[435.00 --> 439.82] When the race is complete -[439.82 --> 440.82] To my lips shall be defeated -[440.82 --> 446.42] Yet not I, but through Christ in me -[446.42 --> 453.02] When the race is complete -[453.02 --> 457.56] To my lips shall be defeated -[457.56 --> 461.62] Yet not I, but through Christ in me -[461.62 --> 466.02] When the race is complete -[466.02 --> 470.02] To my lips shall be defeated -[470.02 --> 474.62] Yet not I, but through Christ in me -[474.62 --> 480.22] You've Got to do Christ in me -[480.22 --> 480.70] hopes for unto the Lord -[480.70 --> 483.22] Yet not I, but through Christ in me -[483.22 --> 484.34] And I, but through Christ in me -[484.34 --> 484.62] When the race is complete -[484.62 --> 485.32] I believe we're defeated -[485.32 --> 485.88] I believe we're defeated -[485.88 --> 487.98] I believe we're defeated -[487.98 --> 488.92] I believe we're defeated -[488.92 --> 489.52] I believe we're defeated -[489.52 --> 489.62] I believe we're defeated -[489.62 --> 490.22] I believe we're defeated -[490.22 --> 490.64] How about you? -[490.64 --> 491.16] How about you? -[491.16 --> 492.36] I believe I believe I believe -[492.36 --> 493.16] How about you? -[493.16 --> 493.76] How about you? -[493.76 --> 494.68] Can that hit -[494.68 --> 495.22] How about you? -[495.22 --> 495.50] How about you? -[495.50 --> 496.24] Now come here -[496.24 --> 497.08] All along -[497.08 --> 498.10] I believe in a lie -[498.10 --> 499.42] His love -[499.42 --> 500.58] It's a conseteenth -[500.58 --> 501.80] A gim-ira -[501.80 --> 502.06] raft-course not a -[502.06 --> 514.74] Good morning, everyone. -[516.10 --> 521.20] Welcome once again to our particular experience of chaos in worship. -[521.20 --> 533.06] I trust on the way in, you were given the clear instructions on how you're going to get your lyrics for your singing this morning. -[533.40 --> 539.98] If you weren't, there's QR codes available at the back and on the back of the worship folder that got handed out. -[540.36 --> 543.42] If you scan that with your phone, that'll take you to a page with the lyrics. -[544.04 --> 547.80] If you don't have a phone or are unable to use your phone for whatever reason, -[547.80 --> 553.46] there are a couple sheets available that we've printed that out on, so make sure you grab one of those -[553.46 --> 559.12] as we persevere through our construction projects together around here. -[559.46 --> 564.64] Before we begin, we have a couple announcements to make, and so I'm just going to run through those. -[565.56 --> 573.18] First, today after our worship, we are going to shift the fun over to Topham Park. -[573.38 --> 575.42] We're going to have a potluck picnic. -[575.42 --> 580.90] I was instructed to remind you that it's a potluck picnic. -[581.76 --> 590.16] So bring your own food and bring your own cutlery and whatever you would bring on a picnic to sit on or whatever the case may be. -[590.62 --> 594.64] We are providing two shade tents and the opportunity. -[595.60 --> 596.78] You are providing the rest. -[597.76 --> 599.88] So that's going to happen at Topham Park. -[600.30 --> 602.84] The information on how to get there is in the e-bulletin. -[602.84 --> 608.48] If you don't have that but would like to come, you can grab myself or Pastor Kevin after worship, -[608.48 --> 610.90] and we'll let you know where it is and how to get there. -[612.94 --> 616.00] Next Sunday is Reactivate. -[616.64 --> 622.14] So we've got a bunch of youth and leaders from all over B.C. coming here for the weekend. -[622.14 --> 626.50] And so for our worship next Sunday, we're doing that all together. -[627.06 --> 630.76] And so it's going to be nice and close quarters together. -[630.98 --> 636.04] And we want to encourage you as regular worshipers here at Emanuel, -[636.24 --> 638.90] and especially those of you who are able-bodied, -[639.36 --> 643.32] to consider parking at the school next door or on the street somewhere -[643.32 --> 647.28] so that we can allow those who need to park closer to do so, -[647.28 --> 651.46] and for the fact that our parking lot is going to be full of other people's vehicles and the like. -[651.60 --> 652.98] So be mindful of that. -[654.24 --> 657.44] Connected to Reactivate also, just a really big thank you to you -[657.44 --> 659.26] who have signed up for volunteering. -[659.86 --> 662.74] A couple weeks ago, there was lots of empty spaces, -[662.74 --> 666.26] and now there's only two or three volunteer spaces. -[666.38 --> 667.38] So thank you for that. -[667.48 --> 668.96] Thank you for stepping up. -[669.04 --> 671.52] We know that it happens every year, and it's a beautiful testimony. -[671.52 --> 676.04] If you're still looking for a place to plug in, there are two or three spots available, -[676.28 --> 677.32] so check that out online. -[680.12 --> 687.08] Also, we are beginning to ramp up and make plans -[687.08 --> 691.76] for our regularly scheduled worship and programs here at Emanuel. -[691.98 --> 696.20] And so over the next couple weeks, there's going to be lots of sign-up sheets -[696.20 --> 698.70] and volunteer opportunity lists that are going out, -[698.76 --> 700.18] so keep your eye open for that. -[700.18 --> 703.98] This morning, I'm going to particularly highlight children's worship time, -[704.32 --> 706.44] which is going to be starting up in a couple weeks. -[706.96 --> 708.60] And so if you're able to sign up for that, -[708.66 --> 713.34] again, you can talk to Pastor Kevin or Rachel Maloaney if she's around somewhere. -[713.68 --> 715.16] Get plugged in in that regard. -[716.90 --> 723.62] Next Saturday is also going to have worship at Sunridge Gardens. -[724.00 --> 726.74] So there's a seniors living facility up the hill -[726.74 --> 730.22] that we once a month go and lead in worship with them. -[730.88 --> 733.10] That's beginning again because it's September, -[733.30 --> 735.88] and so we're going to do that 2 o'clock next Saturday. -[736.08 --> 738.22] If you're interested in joining, you may go there. -[739.58 --> 741.32] And two more. -[741.88 --> 742.72] Yes, two more. -[742.72 --> 746.94] The backpack campaign is still going on, -[747.26 --> 750.52] and some people are like, they delivered those backpacks this week. -[750.68 --> 751.74] Why are we still giving? -[752.18 --> 753.86] It's because they still have to pay for them. -[754.52 --> 757.06] And so we've agreed to help them and partner with them -[757.06 --> 761.26] in supplying the funds for those backpacks that have, yes, been delivered -[761.26 --> 762.96] because school starts on Tuesday. -[763.60 --> 765.34] But so that campaign is still happening, -[765.44 --> 768.46] and so please consider how you might support that and give in that. -[768.46 --> 774.10] And then lastly, draw your attention to, in October on the 4th, -[774.16 --> 776.96] we are hosting a worship conference here. -[777.08 --> 778.60] Information has gone out for that. -[778.94 --> 782.12] We really want to encourage you to spread that invite around, -[782.56 --> 785.84] people who you know might be interested in participating -[785.84 --> 788.06] and coming together to think about -[788.06 --> 790.90] and to worship through all of our emotions -[790.90 --> 794.80] and inmost beings and struggles and hardships and joys and celebrations, -[795.02 --> 797.84] how we might bring that all into the presence of God. -[797.84 --> 800.78] There's more information for that in the e-bulletins -[800.78 --> 802.24] and on our church website as well. -[803.04 --> 804.16] I think that's it. -[804.78 --> 807.16] If I've missed something, my apologies. -[807.84 --> 809.00] Let's stand together, -[809.28 --> 812.64] and we can be ushered into God's presence as we worship Him. -[813.22 --> 816.34] I'm going to extend to you God's greeting, -[816.60 --> 819.32] and then I invite you to spread that around, -[819.42 --> 821.62] to share that around to the people around you -[821.62 --> 823.14] by passing the peace of Christ -[823.14 --> 824.76] or by saying the Lord be with you. -[824.76 --> 828.02] Receive the greeting of our good God this morning. -[829.28 --> 832.72] Grace, mercy, and peace to you -[832.72 --> 834.02] from God our Father, -[834.14 --> 836.86] from the Lord Jesus Christ, Son, and our Savior, -[837.36 --> 840.02] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[840.02 --> 841.42] Amen. -[841.42 --> 841.48] Amen. -[841.48 --> 841.52] Amen. -[870.02 --> 885.56] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 9, verses 1 and 2. -[885.56 --> 905.98] Let's sing together of God's love and goodness to us. -[905.98 --> 907.04] Amen. -[907.04 --> 907.46] Amen. -[907.46 --> 912.28] Amen. -[912.32 --> 920.22] Amen. -[920.28 --> 920.88] Amen. -[920.96 --> 921.16] Amen. -[921.46 --> 922.46] Amen. -[922.46 --> 922.58] Amen. -[922.58 --> 923.46] Amen. -[924.02 --> 924.04] Amen. -[924.08 --> 924.42] Amen. -[924.42 --> 924.98] Amen. -[925.12 --> 925.32] Amen. -[925.32 --> 925.92] Amen. -[926.00 --> 926.10] Amen. -[926.10 --> 926.40] Amen. -[926.40 --> 926.56] Amen. -[926.56 --> 927.96] Amen. -[930.14 --> 930.58] Amen. -[932.38 --> 932.44] Amen. -[932.44 --> 932.74] Amen. -[932.86 --> 933.24] Amen. -[933.32 --> 933.62] Amen. -[933.62 --> 933.68] Amen. -[933.70 --> 933.74] Amen. -[933.84 --> 933.98] Amen. -[933.98 --> 934.50] Amen. -[934.50 --> 935.52] Amen. -[935.52 --> 935.96] Amen. -[935.96 --> 947.24] I love you, Lord -[947.24 --> 953.46] Oh, your mercy never fails me -[953.46 --> 961.72] All my days I've been held in your hands -[961.72 --> 965.54] From the moment that I wake up -[965.54 --> 969.64] Until I lay my head -[969.64 --> 976.98] I will sing of the goodness of God -[976.98 --> 984.10] All my life you have been faithful -[984.10 --> 993.92] All my life you have been so, so good -[993.92 --> 999.24] The very breath that I am healed -[999.24 --> 1006.66] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1006.66 --> 1011.36] I love your voice -[1011.36 --> 1015.98] You have led me through the fire -[1015.98 --> 1019.58] In darkest night -[1019.58 --> 1023.48] You are closer no other -[1023.48 --> 1027.32] I've known you as a father -[1027.32 --> 1031.92] I've known you as a friend -[1031.92 --> 1038.74] I have lived in the goodness of God -[1038.74 --> 1045.92] All my life you have been faithful -[1045.92 --> 1054.92] All my life you have been so, so good -[1054.92 --> 1067.74] I have lived in the goodness of God -[1067.74 --> 1073.74] Your goodness is running after me -[1073.74 --> 1080.74] It's running after me -[1080.74 --> 1084.74] Your goodness is running after me -[1084.74 --> 1086.90] With my life laid down -[1086.90 --> 1088.84] Surrender now -[1088.84 --> 1091.56] I give you everything -[1091.56 --> 1096.56] Your goodness is running after me -[1096.56 --> 1099.56] It's running after me -[1099.56 --> 1103.56] Your goodness is running after me -[1103.56 --> 1107.56] It's running after me -[1107.56 --> 1111.56] Your goodness is running after me -[1111.56 --> 1113.56] It's running after me -[1113.56 --> 1116.50] With my life laid down -[1116.50 --> 1117.56] Surrender now -[1117.56 --> 1120.56] I give you everything -[1120.56 --> 1125.56] Your goodness is running after me -[1125.56 --> 1126.56] You're turning after me -[1126.56 --> 1132.56] You're turning after me -[1132.56 --> 1139.56] All my life you have been faithful -[1139.56 --> 1149.56] All my life you have been so, so good -[1149.56 --> 1155.56] With every breath that I am faithful -[1155.56 --> 1156.56] I will sing -[1156.56 --> 1158.56] I will sing -[1158.56 --> 1162.56] Of the goodness of God -[1162.56 --> 1166.56] I will sing -[1166.56 --> 1170.56] Of the goodness of God -[1170.56 --> 1189.56] You were the word at the beginning -[1189.56 --> 1197.56] One with God, the Lord all time -[1197.56 --> 1204.56] Your hidden glory in creation -[1204.56 --> 1210.56] Now revealed in you are Christ -[1210.56 --> 1214.56] What a beautiful name it is -[1214.56 --> 1218.56] What a beautiful name it is -[1218.56 --> 1233.56] Nothing compares to this -[1233.56 --> 1236.56] What a beautiful name it is -[1236.56 --> 1237.56] The name of Jesus -[1237.56 --> 1239.56] The name of Jesus -[1239.56 --> 1243.56] The name of Jesus -[1243.56 --> 1251.56] You didn't want heaven without us -[1251.56 --> 1252.56] So Jesus -[1252.56 --> 1254.56] You brought heaven down -[1254.56 --> 1261.56] You brought heaven down -[1261.56 --> 1264.56] The sin was great, your love was greater -[1264.56 --> 1265.56] What a beautiful name it is -[1265.56 --> 1266.56] What a beautiful name it is -[1266.56 --> 1267.56] What a beautiful name it is -[1267.56 --> 1279.56] What a beautiful name it is -[1279.56 --> 1286.56] The name of Jesus Christ I be -[1286.56 --> 1294.82] What a wonderful name it is, that it comes to this. -[1294.82 --> 1301.66] What a wonderful name it is, the name of Jesus. -[1302.26 --> 1308.92] What a wonderful name it is, the name of Jesus. -[1316.56 --> 1344.84] Death could not hold you, the veil tore before you. -[1344.84 --> 1351.56] Silence the bones of sin and grave. -[1352.28 --> 1358.36] The heavens are roaring, the praise of your glory. -[1359.20 --> 1364.60] For you are raised to life again. -[1366.18 --> 1372.30] You have no rival, you have no equal. -[1372.30 --> 1379.24] Now and forever, God, you reign. -[1380.10 --> 1382.52] Yours is the kingdom. -[1383.58 --> 1386.06] Yours is the glory. -[1387.16 --> 1393.26] Yours is the name above all things. -[1393.26 --> 1396.84] What a powerful name it is. -[1396.84 --> 1400.34] What a powerful name it is. -[1400.34 --> 1406.60] The name of Jesus Christ, my King. -[1407.48 --> 1411.02] What a powerful name it is. -[1411.70 --> 1414.50] Nothing can stand the best. -[1414.50 --> 1417.82] What a powerful name it is. -[1417.82 --> 1421.40] The name of Jesus. -[1422.30 --> 1424.94] You have no rival. -[1425.78 --> 1428.52] You have no evil. -[1428.52 --> 1435.46] Now and forever, God, you reign. -[1435.46 --> 1438.80] Yours is the kingdom. -[1439.80 --> 1442.32] Yours is the glory. -[1443.32 --> 1449.58] Yours is the name above all things. -[1449.58 --> 1450.58] What a powerful name it is. -[1450.58 --> 1453.06] What a powerful name it is. -[1453.06 --> 1456.54] What a powerful name it is. -[1456.54 --> 1462.80] The name of Jesus Christ, my King. -[1463.80 --> 1467.40] What a powerful name it is. -[1467.40 --> 1470.44] Nothing can stand against. -[1470.44 --> 1473.74] What a powerful name it is. -[1473.74 --> 1475.74] The name of Jesus Christ, my King. -[1475.74 --> 1476.74] What a wonderful name it is. -[1476.74 --> 1480.74] What a wonderful name it is. -[1480.74 --> 1484.74] The name of Jesus Christ, my King. -[1484.74 --> 1487.88] What a beautiful name it is. -[1487.88 --> 1493.74] The name of Jesus Christ, my King. -[1497.74 --> 1500.98] In our time of confession and assurance this morning, -[1501.12 --> 1503.42] we draw on the mystery of our faith. -[1503.74 --> 1507.96] And a grace and love that cannot be undone by our sin. -[1508.68 --> 1514.26] We trust in God's mercy and grace alone as we come to him in prayer. -[1514.76 --> 1516.32] Please join me in prayer. -[1518.24 --> 1522.18] Holy God, Lord of life, hear our prayer. -[1523.60 --> 1528.54] Forgive us when we follow our own paths that lead us astray and away from you. -[1529.64 --> 1532.84] Forgive us when we forget that you offer us life. -[1532.84 --> 1535.68] Life that is abundant and eternal. -[1535.68 --> 1539.36] Life that began at the creation of all things. -[1540.42 --> 1543.18] Forgive us and turn our hearts to you. -[1544.06 --> 1548.92] May your love and grace flow over us and in this world we live in. -[1549.86 --> 1554.32] We pray this in the name of Jesus and for his sake alone. -[1554.32 --> 1555.48] Amen. -[1555.48 --> 1555.52] Amen. -[1558.90 --> 1559.56] Amen. -[1559.56 --> 1560.76] Amen. -[1560.76 --> 1561.10] Amen. -[1561.26 --> 1561.66] Amen. -[1563.66 --> 1565.56] Amen. -[1567.76 --> 1568.88] Amen. -[1568.88 --> 1568.92] Amen. -[1568.92 --> 1569.32] Amen. -[1569.38 --> 1571.28] Amen. -[1571.28 --> 1571.88] Amen. -[1571.88 --> 1573.38] Amen. -[1573.38 --> 1573.60] Amen. -[1573.60 --> 1575.44] Amen. -[1577.68 --> 1578.42] Amen. -[1578.42 --> 1578.58] Amen. -[1578.58 --> 1579.12] Amen. -[1579.12 --> 1579.44] Amen. -[1579.48 --> 1579.94] Amen. -[1579.94 --> 1580.28] Amen. -[1580.28 --> 1580.48] Amen. -[1580.48 --> 1581.16] Amen. -[1581.16 --> 1581.18] Amen. -[1581.18 --> 1581.40] Amen. -[1581.40 --> 1581.42] Amen. -[1581.42 --> 1581.56] Amen. -[1581.74 --> 1582.20] Amen. -[1582.20 --> 1584.04] Amen. -[1584.04 --> 1606.00] Amazing grace -[1606.00 --> 1610.84] How sweet the sound -[1610.84 --> 1620.22] That saved a wretch like me -[1620.22 --> 1625.72] I once was lost -[1625.72 --> 1630.28] But now am found -[1630.28 --> 1637.84] Was blind but now I see -[1637.84 --> 1649.84] T'was grace that taught my heart to fear -[1650.40 --> 1656.84] And grace my fears relieved -[1656.84 --> 1668.84] How precious did that grace appear -[1668.84 --> 1675.84] The hour I first believed -[1675.84 --> 1681.84] My dreams are gone -[1682.36 --> 1684.84] I've been set free -[1684.84 --> 1687.84] My God, my Savior -[1688.40 --> 1691.84] Has ransomed me -[1691.84 --> 1694.84] And like a flood -[1694.84 --> 1699.84] His mercy reigns -[1699.84 --> 1702.84] Unending love -[1702.84 --> 1706.84] Amazing grace -[1706.84 --> 1723.84] The Lord has promised good to me -[1723.84 --> 1729.84] My spirit, my hope secures -[1729.84 --> 1737.84] He will my shield and portion be -[1737.84 --> 1743.84] As long as life can do -[1743.84 --> 1748.84] Through many dangers -[1748.84 --> 1751.84] Stores and snares -[1751.84 --> 1757.84] I have already come -[1757.84 --> 1759.84] His grace -[1759.84 --> 1760.84] His grace -[1760.84 --> 1761.84] His grace -[1761.84 --> 1764.84] Has brought me safe thus far -[1764.84 --> 1766.84] And grace -[1766.84 --> 1770.84] Will lead me home -[1770.84 --> 1772.84] My chains are gone -[1772.84 --> 1774.84] My chains are gone -[1774.84 --> 1777.84] I've been set free -[1777.84 --> 1780.84] My God, my Savior -[1780.84 --> 1782.84] Has ransomed me -[1782.84 --> 1784.84] And like a flood -[1784.84 --> 1785.84] His mercy reigns -[1785.84 --> 1786.84] And like a flood -[1786.84 --> 1787.84] His mercy reigns -[1787.84 --> 1791.84] Unending love -[1791.84 --> 1797.84] Amazing grace -[1797.84 --> 1814.84] When we've been there -[1814.84 --> 1818.84] Ten thousand years -[1818.84 --> 1824.84] Bright shining as the sun -[1824.84 --> 1827.74] We've been there -[1827.74 --> 1830.84] We've known -[1830.84 --> 1833.84] We've known -[1833.84 --> 1835.84] We died -[1835.84 --> 1837.84] We've known -[1837.84 --> 1838.84] They've known -[1838.84 --> 1839.84] We've known -[1839.84 --> 1840.84] The Bridge -[1840.84 --> 1842.84] Has nor -[1842.84 --> 1843.86] avoir -[1843.86 --> 1845.84] Has respite -[1845.84 --> 1848.84] I've been set free -[1848.84 --> 1850.84] My God, my Savior -[1850.84 --> 1853.84] Has ransomed me -[1853.84 --> 1860.16] And like a flood, His mercy brings. -[1860.60 --> 1867.08] Unending love, amazing grace. -[1867.08 --> 1873.50] My chains are gone, I've been set free. -[1874.60 --> 1881.32] My God, my Savior, has resumed me. -[1881.32 --> 1888.70] And like a flood, His mercy brings. -[1889.16 --> 1896.54] Unending love, amazing grace. -[1911.32 --> 1936.48] Let the King of my heart be the mountain where I run. -[1936.48 --> 1942.92] The fountain I drink from, oh, He is my song. -[1943.74 --> 1950.32] Let the King of my heart be the shadow where I hide. -[1950.74 --> 1956.74] The ransom for my life, oh, He is my song. -[1956.74 --> 1962.74] You are good, good, oh. -[1964.00 --> 1968.74] You are good, good, oh. -[1968.74 --> 1975.46] Oh, you are good, good, oh. -[1976.00 --> 1982.12] You are good, good, oh. -[1982.12 --> 1994.02] Let the King of my heart be the wind inside my sails. -[1994.38 --> 2000.12] The anchor in my waves, oh, He is my song. -[2000.12 --> 2007.38] Let the King of my heart be the fire inside my days. -[2007.38 --> 2013.38] The echo of my days, oh, He is my song. -[2013.76 --> 2019.38] You are good, good, oh. -[2019.38 --> 2025.38] Oh, you are good, good, oh. -[2026.64 --> 2032.48] You are good, good, oh. -[2032.48 --> 2039.48] You are good, good, oh. -[2039.48 --> 2069.46] You are good, oh, He is my song. -[2069.46 --> 2075.26] God is holding on to me. -[2076.06 --> 2081.34] God is holding on. -[2083.84 --> 2085.20] Let me have a seat. -[2095.70 --> 2096.68] Good morning. -[2096.68 --> 2103.18] So a couple of months back in April, we took an offering, as we often do, for Life Water Canada. -[2103.76 --> 2109.50] And Life Water Canada is a ministry that was introduced to our church by Pastor Bill Verstegg many years ago. -[2109.58 --> 2112.96] He was involved with them, and so we've been supporting them ever since. -[2113.16 --> 2115.92] So we have Linda here as a special guest. -[2116.14 --> 2121.10] She's been traveling across the country in her vehicle and with her kitty, she told me. -[2121.10 --> 2128.30] She's from Thunder Bay, and she's doing a big tour, just updating churches, sharing stories, and thanking for the support. -[2128.70 --> 2132.68] So I'm going to ask Linda to join us and share a bit from Life Water Canada. -[2132.68 --> 2143.70] Well, good morning. -[2143.70 --> 2148.80] I just wanted to thank you so much for being able to come and share. -[2148.80 --> 2153.20] I had lots of pictures. -[2153.20 --> 2164.02] You can see some of them in the banners in the back, and feel free to take a newsletter there that has some more details about what it is that we do. -[2164.02 --> 2182.66] You know, the bottom line of what motivates us, the passion that we, you know, really stir into a raging flame, is that it is not right that where you're born should determine whether you live or whether you die. -[2183.44 --> 2187.02] A child here in our nation has a very good chance of survival. -[2187.52 --> 2190.52] A child overseas, it's not the same story. -[2190.52 --> 2197.40] Since we don't have pictures, I'm just going to kind of flip into a few stories, which is probably a good thing anyway. -[2198.90 --> 2202.20] I was in Liberia, West Africa. -[2202.76 --> 2206.08] You know, that's, you know, if you see Africa there, it's right there on the equator. -[2206.82 --> 2208.66] I was teaching a health and hygiene workshop. -[2208.78 --> 2216.32] I had about 20 men and women there, and it was a three-day workshop trying to impart just a little bit of basic knowledge. -[2216.32 --> 2230.76] Washing hands, how disease was transmitted, how you could stop that transmission of disease that causes diarrhea, which is really the killer of infants, and just diminishes the potential that people can meet because they're chronically ill. -[2231.48 --> 2236.92] On the third day, I looked at the back row, and there was a lady, an older lady, and she was quietly weeping. -[2236.92 --> 2238.88] And this is my first trip in Liberia. -[2239.00 --> 2244.36] I thought, oh, dear, I've stepped on some, you know, kind of tribal toes, and I did say something wrong. -[2244.58 --> 2253.20] And anyway, I just carried on quietly, and I went home with her daughter, Fatou, and I said, Fatou, like, how come Elizabeth was crying in the workshop? -[2253.20 --> 2263.18] And she explained to me that in her tribe, the baby was not even given a name until it got to be a month old. -[2263.36 --> 2268.46] And at that point, they figured it had a good chance of survival, and so they would have a ceremony. -[2268.72 --> 2276.68] They would name the child, and the grandma or grandpa would come and give them the first drink of water because water is life. -[2276.68 --> 2279.98] Unfortunately, the water was not life-giving. -[2280.18 --> 2282.12] It was a teaspoon of death. -[2282.74 --> 2294.98] And Elizabeth at that point had learned that she had been instrumental in the demise of three of her grandchildren because shortly after that child had given the water, they had perished. -[2296.54 --> 2298.00] I mean, horrific, right? -[2298.22 --> 2301.94] I was, I mean, I can't imagine the pain she was feeling. -[2301.94 --> 2311.80] I went back the next year, and I looked her up and see how she was doing, and she was bubbling over with joy, which was, like, good. -[2312.42 --> 2315.54] And I said, like, you know, how are you feeling? -[2315.74 --> 2327.12] And she said, my aunt, or no, my niece, way up country in Lofa, called her and said, my baby, an infant, was very ill, and she didn't know what to do. -[2327.12 --> 2332.68] But Elizabeth, with those little seeds of knowledge, was able to say, make sure you keep the baby on the breast. -[2332.80 --> 2334.72] Make sure you give her sterile water. -[2335.02 --> 2344.26] So boil it for five minutes, and make sure you put a little salt and a little bit of banana or something in it, and that every time that baby had a diarrhea, then give her that. -[2344.62 --> 2346.04] And that infant lived. -[2346.04 --> 2358.36] So I was very grateful, you know, that there was fruit, good fruit from the workshop, but ongoing redemptive impact from that little tiny seed of knowledge. -[2359.32 --> 2363.28] You know, the word says, my people die, perish for lack of knowledge. -[2363.92 --> 2366.86] And it doesn't have to be, you know, a university degree. -[2367.02 --> 2369.10] Sometimes it just needs to be a little seed. -[2369.10 --> 2374.98] Because when kids are sick from contaminated water, they don't get to go to school. -[2375.32 --> 2376.06] Adults are sick. -[2376.38 --> 2378.48] They can't earn a living to provide for their families. -[2379.02 --> 2384.72] You know, unsafe water prevents families, communities, entire regions from really reaching their potential. -[2385.00 --> 2386.78] Because water is life. -[2387.68 --> 2388.90] I mean, just take a minute and think. -[2388.98 --> 2390.48] Where did you use water this morning? -[2391.20 --> 2392.08] Had a cup of coffee? -[2392.28 --> 2393.00] Brushed your teeth? -[2393.24 --> 2393.94] Flushed your toilet? -[2394.94 --> 2396.06] You know, had a shower? -[2396.06 --> 2398.38] Like, we use it all the time. -[2398.92 --> 2399.92] Without thought. -[2400.84 --> 2404.12] But it is a privilege that we have in this nation. -[2404.32 --> 2405.76] It is not the same overseas. -[2407.02 --> 2413.20] The WHO stats, the World Health Organization, they say, you know, over 2 billion people don't have safe water to drink. -[2413.80 --> 2417.48] And over 3 billion don't have safe sanitation. -[2418.74 --> 2421.16] You know, the women carry the burden of water. -[2421.68 --> 2425.44] They're the ones, the children, the women, they'll be walking long distances, -[2425.44 --> 2430.12] often with a toddler on their back, a toddler on their side, in the dark, -[2430.30 --> 2433.02] so that they can get to the water before the animals muddy it. -[2433.98 --> 2438.80] It's exposing them to snakes, dangers, human danger. -[2439.76 --> 2442.90] And for water, that's bad for them. -[2442.90 --> 2446.54] And we are doing something impactful. -[2446.76 --> 2452.22] To this point, we've given over 9.5 million people safe water and sanitation and education. -[2453.28 --> 2460.64] We have drilled over 3,000 wells, repaired over 17,000 pumps. -[2460.64 --> 2464.64] We repair everybody's pumps, not just what we put in. -[2464.96 --> 2471.82] And we will continue to do so and continue to drill to try and keep the number of people on a pump low, -[2472.00 --> 2473.72] so that that pump will last longer. -[2475.10 --> 2480.60] We've also initiated a new component to the work that we do, -[2480.60 --> 2483.10] and that's addressing period poverty. -[2484.24 --> 2488.40] Girls miss a week of every month from school -[2488.40 --> 2491.40] because they don't have something simple as sanitary pads. -[2492.02 --> 2495.46] So a couple of years ago, it came to our attention that this was a factor. -[2495.80 --> 2500.02] We started a small microenterprise in Kenya, had a bunch of single moms, -[2500.40 --> 2505.32] because unfortunately, one of the ways that the Kenya women were dealing with this problem -[2505.32 --> 2509.26] was they were exchanging sex for pads. -[2509.62 --> 2513.16] And then, of course, you had unplanned pregnancies and infections, etc. -[2513.82 --> 2520.32] So we've started this program, and we've done some studies since that time. -[2520.40 --> 2521.44] It's been almost three years. -[2522.34 --> 2525.98] And on-line pregnancies are none, right? -[2526.08 --> 2527.84] That's dropped right off the radar. -[2528.48 --> 2531.38] And Kenya keeps pretty good scores of educational components, -[2531.38 --> 2536.28] and the girls' scores rose significantly because they were able to attend school -[2536.28 --> 2540.36] four weeks out of every month, which for them was a privilege. -[2541.00 --> 2542.94] How many kids are going back to school next week? -[2544.52 --> 2546.34] Is it a privilege to go to school? -[2547.78 --> 2549.34] Well, yes and no, right? -[2551.42 --> 2553.20] But for them, it really is. -[2553.60 --> 2555.60] We are still working in four nations, -[2556.60 --> 2560.52] Kenya, Liberia, Nigeria, and in Haiti. -[2560.52 --> 2563.36] All of these nations are very poor. -[2563.80 --> 2565.42] They don't really have government support -[2565.42 --> 2570.64] to be able to provide the water and sanitation on their own. -[2570.86 --> 2574.32] So we are there to be able to stand alongside and help. -[2576.08 --> 2578.88] We have multiple teams in each of those nations. -[2581.38 --> 2583.10] We've been working now 30 years. -[2583.66 --> 2586.44] And as Mike mentioned, I'm on a journey. -[2586.84 --> 2588.50] It's called the Journey to 30. -[2588.50 --> 2591.46] First well was drilled in March of 1995, -[2591.78 --> 2595.88] and we were incorporated in 1997. -[2596.70 --> 2600.36] And so I'll be traveling across Canada for the next couple of years just sharing. -[2600.86 --> 2603.88] It's been just such a delight, at least to me. -[2604.02 --> 2605.10] I'm not sure about my kitty. -[2605.78 --> 2609.94] He's presently hiding behind the bed or under the covers. -[2609.94 --> 2621.38] These 30 years has been, you know, solidly growing. -[2622.66 --> 2624.90] The nonprofit has been solidly growing. -[2625.10 --> 2628.80] We're about four times as big as we were in 2020. -[2628.80 --> 2634.18] And part of that is because of members like yourselves. -[2634.90 --> 2643.28] You know, I don't know if you realize that this church has provided over $72,000 of support. -[2643.28 --> 2650.98] You've helped with 30 projects, including the two wells in Kenya that you just sponsored a few months ago. -[2651.78 --> 2654.08] It is incredibly impactful. -[2654.52 --> 2656.72] It's making life-changing differences. -[2656.72 --> 2664.50] And, you know, our teams, they are positioned well to be able to, they're trained, they're equipped, -[2664.74 --> 2671.34] they go into the local communities, they facilitate ownership and community involvement, -[2672.00 --> 2673.84] but they can't do it on their own. -[2674.38 --> 2677.98] You know, if they don't work for the day, their families don't eat. -[2678.48 --> 2682.38] You know, to be a volunteer is something we're privileged with, -[2682.38 --> 2686.36] but it's not something that somebody who earns a dollar a day can afford. -[2687.10 --> 2692.62] And so your sponsorships and your facilitation has really enabled the continuation -[2692.62 --> 2696.86] and the completeness of the circle to keep that water flowing to those that are in need. -[2700.70 --> 2704.04] You know, in the early days, it was wartime in Liberia, -[2704.26 --> 2707.00] and we came back from that trip thinking, you know, -[2707.02 --> 2709.46] we need to do the easy ones first to reach the most people. -[2709.46 --> 2714.52] So 30 years later, we're still doing that, but we've progressed a little bit further. -[2714.66 --> 2716.92] We're trying to make the hard ones easy. -[2717.38 --> 2722.36] And that means that we are working hard on new technologies and innovations -[2722.36 --> 2725.26] so that we can get into the hinterlands, into the forgotten places. -[2725.62 --> 2727.30] A rig requires a good road, -[2727.40 --> 2730.82] and a lot of the places where the people are living don't have that. -[2731.24 --> 2737.68] And so we've made an off-roading, kind of very maneuverable, narrow wheelbase truck-mounted rig -[2737.68 --> 2741.50] that's now in all of our Africa communities. -[2742.14 --> 2747.10] And on the sea sailing right now is a new adventure. -[2747.36 --> 2749.42] It's actually a rig on a motorcycle. -[2750.26 --> 2756.76] Three-wheeled motorcycle, big tires, and the mast folds over the driver. -[2756.76 --> 2761.70] And it can still drill and rock about 300 feet, which is the max a pump can handle anyway. -[2762.34 --> 2763.52] We're going to check it out. -[2763.66 --> 2767.50] It's sailing here to Vancouver and then being shipped by rail to Lethbridge, -[2767.58 --> 2768.44] where we can test it. -[2768.52 --> 2769.36] It's made in China. -[2770.12 --> 2771.50] So we'll see how it is. -[2771.64 --> 2775.40] But the idea and the innovation is, like, so streamlined -[2775.40 --> 2778.04] and so in keeping with making the hard ones easy. -[2778.04 --> 2782.24] And this one will be shipped to Haiti. -[2783.14 --> 2787.24] And they will start a brand-new drilling team because Haiti right now, -[2787.56 --> 2790.00] as you may know, is in terrible turmoil. -[2790.16 --> 2791.08] There is no government. -[2791.84 --> 2795.84] Our team, because they are all local, are successfully drilling. -[2796.38 --> 2802.28] I just got 89 repairs and six hand pumps, new wells drilled this month. -[2802.28 --> 2806.96] So they are quietly under the radar going into where the need is. -[2807.50 --> 2810.30] This rig will make it very helpful for them. -[2813.14 --> 2817.08] Again, I wanted to just spend this time just to say thank you. -[2817.76 --> 2819.68] We're really grateful for your support. -[2820.10 --> 2821.62] We're really grateful for your prayers. -[2822.26 --> 2825.82] If you would like, I do a monthly prayer update. -[2825.96 --> 2828.38] There's a sign-up sheet at the back beside the posters. -[2828.64 --> 2831.86] We are also hosting what we're calling a town hall. -[2832.28 --> 2834.22] And so if you want to hear a little bit more, right, -[2834.30 --> 2838.22] directly from our Nigeria program coordinator, -[2838.36 --> 2841.68] who happens to be the dean of education and psychology -[2841.68 --> 2843.98] in the Abuja University and our lead driller. -[2844.40 --> 2845.56] He is very well-spoken. -[2845.84 --> 2848.44] He has incredible stories to share of the impact -[2848.44 --> 2850.42] that his team's been making in Nigeria -[2850.42 --> 2853.40] and the expansion that he's anticipating to do -[2853.40 --> 2857.40] to reach not only an Abuja area but down close to Lagos, -[2857.72 --> 2859.88] very populated areas with nothing. -[2859.88 --> 2863.76] So please feel free to sign up in the back -[2863.76 --> 2866.64] and I'll be around there too if you wanted to talk -[2866.64 --> 2867.52] or ask more questions. -[2867.96 --> 2868.92] Thank you very much. -[2874.92 --> 2876.24] Thank you very much, Linda. -[2876.70 --> 2877.96] Yeah, she'll be at the back -[2877.96 --> 2879.72] and you can always ask questions or sign up -[2879.72 --> 2880.68] or hear more from her -[2880.68 --> 2883.00] and the wonderful work Life Water's been doing. -[2883.54 --> 2884.64] We're also going to take a moment now -[2884.64 --> 2888.16] to give our own financial gifts in our offering. -[2888.68 --> 2891.60] And today's offering is for Cascade Christian Counseling. -[2891.96 --> 2894.40] So they have offices in Surrey and in Abbotsford, -[2894.90 --> 2896.66] another ministry we've been supporting for many years. -[2896.82 --> 2898.82] And what I love about them, -[2898.96 --> 2901.54] especially in helping people in our own church, -[2901.62 --> 2902.98] our own community with their mental health, -[2903.06 --> 2906.98] is they have kind of a stepped way of paying for it. -[2906.98 --> 2909.12] so they don't turn a lot of people away. -[2909.52 --> 2910.96] And the donations we give today -[2910.96 --> 2912.06] helps to support people -[2912.06 --> 2914.40] who maybe can't afford counseling but could use it. -[2914.52 --> 2917.10] So thank you so much for giving today. -[2917.10 --> 2917.18] Thank you. -[2917.18 --> 2917.22] Thank you. -[2917.22 --> 2918.04] Thank you. -[2918.04 --> 2918.44] Thank you. -[2918.44 --> 2919.14] Thank you. -[2919.14 --> 2919.32] Thank you. -[2919.32 --> 2919.88] Thank you. -[2919.88 --> 2920.28] Thank you. -[2920.28 --> 2928.52] Thank you. -[2928.52 --> 2958.50] Thank you. -[2958.52 --> 2988.50] Thank you. -[2988.52 --> 3018.50] Thank you. -[3018.52 --> 3019.52] Thank you. -[3019.52 --> 3020.52] Thank you. -[3020.52 --> 3048.50] Thank you. -[3048.52 --> 3050.52] Thank you. -[3050.52 --> 3051.52] Thank you. -[3051.52 --> 3053.52] Thank you. -[3053.52 --> 3064.40] Thank you, O my Father, for giving us your song. -[3064.40 --> 3075.90] And leaving your spirit till the work on earth is now. -[3075.90 --> 3088.64] Thank you, O my Father, for giving us your song. -[3088.64 --> 3100.96] And leaving your spirit till the work on earth is now. -[3105.90 --> 3110.90] I would love to invite all of the kids to come forward. -[3110.90 --> 3118.90] If you are three years old, going into kindergarten, maybe you're a little bit older and you want to come up, we're going to sit by this candle, I guess. -[3118.90 --> 3122.90] Nice. We'll come sit over here, maybe. How about right over here? Is that a better spot? -[3122.90 --> 3126.90] Yeah? Yeah, come on up. Come on up. -[3126.90 --> 3130.90] Feel free. Oh, there's only a few of us today. -[3130.90 --> 3136.90] How are we doing? We're good. Are we ready for children's worship time? -[3136.90 --> 3142.90] I know. That's exciting. We're going to pray and then we're going to go children's worship time. Is that a good idea? -[3142.90 --> 3149.90] Yeah? Well, let's pray, okay? Let's fold our hands and close our eyes and then we'll head on off. -[3149.90 --> 3153.90] Dear God, thank you so much for this day. Thank you that we could be here in church today. -[3153.90 --> 3157.90] We could sing worship songs to you and open up the Bible and learn more about you as well. -[3157.90 --> 3161.90] Be with these kids as they go to children's worship time and us as well as we stay back here. -[3161.90 --> 3165.90] Help us learn what it means to follow you in your name. Amen. -[3165.90 --> 3168.90] Now, before we go, though, we have to do the children's blessing, right? -[3168.90 --> 3173.90] So can we stand up? There's only four of us, so we're going to have to be a little bit loud again. -[3173.90 --> 3176.90] But we're going to say the Lord be with you to everyone, okay? -[3176.90 --> 3181.90] So can we do that with our hands? Are we ready? The Lord be with you on three. Ready? -[3181.90 --> 3183.90] Nice and loud. One, two, three. -[3183.90 --> 3186.90] Be with you. -[3186.90 --> 3188.90] And also with you. -[3206.90 --> 3229.90] Morning. My name is Dick. I am a member here. And it's time to come to our God in prayer. Just a couple of notes. -[3229.90 --> 3237.90] Marguerite Cool's mother passed away on Friday. That is Rachel Malawani's grandmother. -[3237.90 --> 3246.90] Her health was declining for quite some time. And she did pass away more quickly than what the family expected. -[3246.90 --> 3258.90] And we also want to think about people missing loved ones. Most of us, if not all of us, at some time in the last short while, long while, whatever, -[3258.90 --> 3265.90] have always had to say goodbye to somebody. Sometime it's expected. Lots of times it's not. -[3265.90 --> 3274.90] I want to think about people dealing with illnesses, pain, shut-ins, etc. And then, of course, you've got school. -[3274.90 --> 3284.90] I'm sure you're probably sick of hearing that already. I did a little question and answer session with some of my grandkids -[3284.90 --> 3290.90] and I wanted to know if they were excited to go to school. Well, you can almost guess what the majority said. -[3290.90 --> 3303.90] But there was some that were very excited. I said, you know, you got to see your friends, learn, because you won't believe this until you're way out of it. -[3303.90 --> 3310.90] But school was actually pretty neat. I mean, a lot of people didn't work very hard, but they sure had to after school. -[3310.90 --> 3317.90] So you got real work coming, folks. So enjoy it. -[3317.90 --> 3327.90] I do want to mention that Kevin Lobert and Nikki have been with us for 16, 17 years, Kevin. -[3327.90 --> 3335.90] And I have been there the whole time. And some of us have been here since actually this church started. -[3335.90 --> 3345.90] And of all the pastors and associate pastors, Kevin is among the most humblest. -[3345.90 --> 3350.90] That's my experience. Maybe he hides it well. I don't know. But that's been my experience. -[3350.90 --> 3363.90] I've talked to Kevin many times for various number of reasons. And it's always been a very it's been a blessing. -[3363.90 --> 3372.90] So, Kevin, I want you to know that we have a big deal coming up, a meeting talking about whether we want Kevin to stay or not. -[3372.90 --> 3380.90] And obviously we want what God wants. And so let's come to God in prayer. -[3380.90 --> 3388.90] Father, we're in heaven. Lord, thank you. Thank you that we can come here Sunday after Sunday after Sunday. -[3388.90 --> 3395.90] Lord, most of us, Lord, we pray for the shut-ins right now that can't always join us. -[3395.90 --> 3403.90] Lord, we pray for people we've had to say or that are dealing with saying goodbye to others. -[3403.90 --> 3412.90] Lord, and especially those people who, if they miss a spouse, that they now are most of the time alone. -[3412.90 --> 3415.90] They're not alone because you're there. That's obvious, Lord. -[3415.90 --> 3422.90] But they've always had somebody side by side, maybe for five, ten, fifty, fifty years sometimes. -[3422.90 --> 3426.90] Just, Lord, will you touch every single person? -[3426.90 --> 3436.90] We help the rest of us to reach out because, Lord, we can always think of somebody who's had to deal with the loss of a loved one. -[3436.90 --> 3441.90] Lord, we pray for kids. Thank you for kids. Thank you for grandkids. -[3441.90 --> 3445.90] Lord, this coming week is a big week. We pray for teachers. -[3445.90 --> 3448.90] We pray for anybody who works in the school system, Lord. -[3448.90 --> 3451.90] We pray for a blessing on each one. -[3451.90 --> 3458.90] We help the leaders to reach out to each other, to the kids. -[3458.90 --> 3461.90] Then we pray, Lord, will you be with all those kids? -[3461.90 --> 3466.90] We pray for transportation. We pray for the busyness of it all, Lord. -[3466.90 --> 3474.90] But also the blessings. We pray, will you, if we go there, even as a student, Lord, that we reach out to the friends we know -[3474.90 --> 3490.90] and the friends we want to know and also the lonely ones, Lord, who sometimes are missed in the sidelines or not given proper affection or care. -[3490.90 --> 3495.90] And we pray, will you help us to reach out as you call us to do? -[3495.90 --> 3502.90] Lord, we pray for Pastor Chris this morning, Lord, as he brings your word. -[3502.90 --> 3508.90] Lord, as he shares with us what God has told him to share. -[3508.90 --> 3510.90] Lord, we pray, will you bless each one of us? -[3510.90 --> 3514.90] Will you help us also this week as we leave from here? -[3514.90 --> 3522.90] We pray, will you be with us as we hear about other parts of the world, Lord, and sometimes it's just chaos. -[3522.90 --> 3528.90] Lord, we help us to be a witness to whoever and wherever we can. -[3528.90 --> 3532.90] Thank you, Lord, this morning that we heard about some parts of Africa. -[3532.90 --> 3539.90] And there's so many more Christians, Lord, that we don't know about or we just hear about. -[3539.90 --> 3542.90] And they don't have it near as good as what we do, Lord. -[3542.90 --> 3545.90] Thank you for the blessings we do live with. -[3545.90 --> 3548.90] Help us to share. Help us to be aware of that. -[3548.90 --> 3552.90] Lord, we pray, will you bless us through your word this morning? -[3552.90 --> 3555.90] Thank you in Jesus name. Amen. -[3555.90 --> 3581.90] We are going to end our summer this weekend with the conclusion wrapping up our summer series, -[3581.90 --> 3589.90] looking at Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew, a series that we've entitled Behold Your King. -[3589.90 --> 3596.90] Today we're going to finish that looking at the death and resurrection of Jesus. -[3596.90 --> 3604.90] So I'm going to read from Matthew 28, the first 10 verses, but we are going to kind of refer to that bigger section, -[3604.90 --> 3608.90] starting in chapter 27 through to the end. -[3608.90 --> 3615.90] And so as always, encourage you really to have a Bible in front of you, open that up or turn it on if it's a phone that you use for that. -[3615.90 --> 3619.90] And keep that there so we can refer back throughout. -[3619.90 --> 3624.90] Let's start by reading the first 10 verses of chapter 28 together. -[3624.90 --> 3636.90] After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. -[3636.90 --> 3646.90] And there was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. -[3646.90 --> 3657.90] His appearance was like lightning and his clothes were white as snow, and the guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. -[3657.90 --> 3666.90] The angel said to the women, do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. -[3666.90 --> 3671.90] He is not here. He has risen, just as he said. -[3671.90 --> 3679.90] Come, see the place where he lay, and then go quickly and tell his disciples, -[3679.90 --> 3683.90] he has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. -[3683.90 --> 3687.90] There you will see him. Now I have told you. -[3687.90 --> 3696.90] So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. -[3696.90 --> 3700.90] And suddenly Jesus met them. -[3700.90 --> 3702.90] Greetings, he said. -[3702.90 --> 3707.90] They came to him, clasped his feet and worshipped him. -[3707.90 --> 3711.90] And then Jesus said, do not be afraid. -[3711.90 --> 3718.90] Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me. -[3718.90 --> 3720.90] This is the word of the Lord. -[3720.90 --> 3722.90] Amen. -[3726.90 --> 3730.90] Think about the stories that we tell. -[3730.90 --> 3737.90] Some of the most popular stories throughout the history of civilization, in fact, -[3737.90 --> 3742.90] have circled around the same kinds of themes. -[3742.90 --> 3751.90] One common theme in the history of storytelling is death and ideas how to defeat it. -[3752.90 --> 3759.90] Draw your attention, if you would, to that great literary classic, Harry Potter. -[3760.90 --> 3763.90] Specifically, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. -[3763.90 --> 3771.90] Now at its heart, the Harry Potter story is not just about wands or spells or castles and magic. -[3771.90 --> 3775.90] It's about the deepest human fear. -[3775.90 --> 3777.90] Death itself. -[3778.90 --> 3782.90] About loneliness in the face of it, or as a result of it. -[3783.90 --> 3788.90] If you're familiar with that story, and I know some of you are, and some of you are just opposed, Kevin. -[3788.90 --> 3798.90] But in that story, the Dark Lord Voldemort, I said his name, spends the whole story running from death. -[3798.90 --> 3799.90] Right? -[3799.90 --> 3803.90] He grasps after every dark power in order to avoid it. -[3803.90 --> 3811.90] He splits his soul into horcruxes in an attempt to stave off the inevitability of it. -[3811.90 --> 3818.90] He's obsessed with defeating death, and his obsession turns him into something less than human. -[3818.90 --> 3822.90] And it becomes, in the end, a shell of a man. -[3823.90 --> 3828.90] Powerful, sure, but enslaved by his fear of it. -[3829.90 --> 3838.90] Now Harry, the protagonist, by contrast, triumphs in this story not by avoiding death, but actually by willingly going to face it. -[3838.90 --> 3846.90] At the climax of the story, he walks into the forest, unarmed, and he offers himself for his friends. -[3847.90 --> 3854.90] And in a twist that, if anyone has read the Bible before reading Harry Potter, they knew was coming, -[3854.90 --> 3863.90] a twist that represents something much deeper than fantasy, he wins not by running from death, but by passing through it. -[3863.90 --> 3870.90] In fact, his passing through death happens at the King's Cross, even, in the story. -[3870.90 --> 3879.90] And what makes the story ring true for so many millions of us who have read it is not its clever plot, -[3879.90 --> 3890.90] but that it touches on something that we all know and long for deep down, that somehow death does not have the last word. -[3890.90 --> 3896.90] Now, of course, the author, J.K. Rowling, didn't invent this theme. -[3896.90 --> 3901.90] Like we said, this has been storytelling forever, right? -[3901.90 --> 3907.90] And it taps into something older and deeper, a truth embedded in every human heart. -[3907.90 --> 3914.90] J.R.R. Tolkien, who wrote Lord of the Rings and who was inspirational to Rowling, -[3914.90 --> 3922.90] Tolkien once wrote that the story of Jesus' resurrection is the eucatastrophe of the story of mankind, -[3922.90 --> 3926.90] the happy ending that breaks into the tragedy. -[3926.90 --> 3933.90] Tolkien loved to say, actually, that in Christ's resurrection, and C.S. Lewis echoes this too, -[3933.90 --> 3938.90] everything sad is going to come untrue. -[3938.90 --> 3941.90] And that's what we long for, right? -[3941.90 --> 3948.90] Not just to delay death with medicine or technology or strange ideas of transhumanism, -[3948.90 --> 3955.90] not just to distract ourselves from the shadow of mortality with busyness or with entertainment. -[3955.90 --> 3959.90] We long for a victory over death itself. -[3959.90 --> 3964.90] We long for the day when sadness will come undone. -[3964.90 --> 3968.90] And here's the thing, right? -[3968.90 --> 3972.90] This longing is not just in them out there. -[3972.90 --> 3977.90] It's not just in fantasy novels or in philosophers debating the meaning of life. -[3977.90 --> 3980.90] This longing is in us. -[3980.90 --> 3986.90] It's in the way we avoid talking about death in polite conversation. -[3986.90 --> 3994.90] It's in the way we throw everything of ourselves into diets or fitness routines or health trends -[3994.90 --> 4000.90] just to stave off that feeling of inevitability. -[4000.90 --> 4004.90] It's in the tears we shed at funerals. -[4004.90 --> 4007.90] Even when the person lived a long life and a full life, right? -[4007.90 --> 4009.90] Death feels wrong. -[4009.90 --> 4011.90] It feels like an intruder. -[4011.90 --> 4014.90] It feels like something that shouldn't be there. -[4014.90 --> 4019.90] And again, contemporary philosophers and medical professionals can tell us it's natural. -[4019.90 --> 4024.90] Biologists can remind us that it's just part of the circle of life. -[4024.90 --> 4027.90] But our hearts know better in that moment, right? -[4027.90 --> 4030.90] We don't just want a circle that goes round and round and round. -[4030.90 --> 4032.90] We want a victory. -[4032.90 --> 4036.90] We want an end to the pain and to the struggle and the hardship. -[4036.90 --> 4039.90] We don't want a story that ends in darkness. -[4039.90 --> 4042.90] We want a story that ends in light. -[4042.90 --> 4045.90] This longing is universal. -[4045.90 --> 4047.90] This longing is ancient. -[4047.90 --> 4050.90] This longing is human. -[4050.90 --> 4057.90] And that's exactly what the Gospel of Jesus addresses. -[4057.90 --> 4063.90] The Bible never asks us to pretend that death is fine or that it's merely a natural step. -[4063.90 --> 4067.90] The Bible refers to death as the last enemy. -[4067.90 --> 4078.90] And yet, the Bible proclaims that in the death and resurrection of Jesus, death itself has been swallowed up in victory. -[4078.90 --> 4081.90] That's what Matthew 28 is all about. -[4081.90 --> 4082.90] Right? -[4082.90 --> 4087.90] The women come to the tomb expecting death to have the last word. -[4087.90 --> 4090.90] And instead, they meet a risen Christ. -[4090.90 --> 4095.90] And in that moment, God stands there boldly before them and declares to the world, -[4095.90 --> 4098.90] The ache is answered. -[4098.90 --> 4101.90] The longing is fulfilled. -[4101.90 --> 4107.90] Victory comes to you through the cross of Jesus. -[4107.90 --> 4122.90] Our big idea this morning is just that, that the death and the resurrection of Jesus secure our salvation and then together send us out on mission. -[4122.90 --> 4126.90] The death and resurrection of Jesus secure our salvation and send us out on mission. -[4126.90 --> 4128.90] Now, I get it. -[4128.90 --> 4132.90] From the outside, the crucifixion of Jesus looks like a failure. -[4132.90 --> 4133.90] Right? -[4133.90 --> 4142.90] A man who healed the sick, who calmed storms, who even raised the dead, is now powerless and mocked and dying on a Roman cross. -[4142.90 --> 4149.90] There's a sign that hangs above his head that says, this is Jesus, the King of the Jews, and it's meant to ridicule him. -[4149.90 --> 4154.90] The soldiers, scoffing, divide his clothes. -[4154.90 --> 4158.90] The leaders sneer at him and his disciples scatter. -[4158.90 --> 4165.90] To all appearances, in that moment, the cross is defeat. -[4165.90 --> 4168.90] Death wins. -[4168.90 --> 4173.90] But Matthew's gospel insists otherwise. -[4173.90 --> 4179.90] The cross, it turns out, isn't defeat, but it's the very path to victory. -[4179.90 --> 4183.90] And already in Matthew, we've seen this. -[4183.90 --> 4193.90] Back in Matthew 16, verse 21, right after Peter confesses that Jesus is the Messiah, this is what Matthew records. -[4193.90 --> 4194.90] He says, -[4194.90 --> 4213.90] Notice the word there, right? -[4213.90 --> 4215.90] It says, must. -[4215.90 --> 4220.90] Jesus didn't say this might happen or that it was one possibility among others. -[4220.90 --> 4223.90] He said it must happen. -[4223.90 --> 4227.90] Again, in Matthew 20, verse 28, we read, Jesus declaring, -[4227.90 --> 4235.90] The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many. -[4235.90 --> 4238.90] Again, this was his mission, right? -[4238.90 --> 4242.90] His death is not accidental, but intentional. -[4242.90 --> 4246.90] It's not incidental, but essential. -[4246.90 --> 4248.90] Why? -[4248.90 --> 4251.90] Why is the cross necessary? -[4251.90 --> 4253.90] That's the question at the heart of this, right? -[4253.90 --> 4258.90] Couldn't God have just saved some other way? -[4258.90 --> 4267.90] Interestingly, this is exactly the question that Anselm of Canterbury wrestled with almost a thousand years ago in his great work, -[4267.90 --> 4272.90] Cordaeus Homo, why God became man. -[4272.90 --> 4277.90] If you've been listening to our podcast this summer, you've heard of this individual. -[4277.90 --> 4279.90] And he asked, -[4279.90 --> 4289.90] If God is almighty, why could he not simply forgive by his word, without the humiliation of the incarnation or without the agony of the cross? -[4289.90 --> 4296.90] And his answer is profound and continues to be profound for us today. -[4296.90 --> 4303.90] The truth is, sin is not something that can simply be waved away. -[4303.90 --> 4309.90] Sin is a debt of honor owed to God. -[4309.90 --> 4313.90] An offense against his infinite majesty. -[4313.90 --> 4324.90] And an offense against an infinite majesty cannot be paid by a finite human, a finite reality. -[4324.90 --> 4327.90] A substitute is necessary. -[4327.90 --> 4344.90] One who is truly human, that is one who ought to pay the penalty to stand in our place, but also one who is truly divine, who is fully God, so that he is himself of infinite worth to fill up that glory gap that we have taken. -[4344.90 --> 4352.90] In other words, only Jesus Christ, who is fully God and fully man, could make this satisfaction for us. -[4352.90 --> 4364.90] And so, Anselm concludes that the incarnation and the cross are not an arbitrary thing, but the only fitting way to make salvation. -[4364.90 --> 4371.90] They are, given who God is and who we are, the only way salvation could be secured. -[4371.90 --> 4376.90] And again, hear this, right? -[4376.90 --> 4379.90] This isn't just theology on a page. -[4379.90 --> 4384.90] Matthew shows us this same truth in the garden of Gethsemane. -[4384.90 --> 4390.90] When Peter reaches for his sword in Gethsemane, Jesus stops him and he says, -[4390.90 --> 4401.90] Do you think I cannot call on my Father and that at once he will put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? -[4401.90 --> 4402.90] And then he says, -[4402.90 --> 4411.90] But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen this way? -[4411.90 --> 4415.90] It's Matthew 26, starting at verse 53. -[4415.90 --> 4416.90] Right? -[4416.90 --> 4418.90] Jesus could have avoided the cross. -[4418.90 --> 4428.90] He could have summoned angel armies, but then God's justice would be unsatisfied. -[4428.90 --> 4431.90] And God's word would be unfulfilled. -[4431.90 --> 4435.90] And God's covenant would be unkept. -[4435.90 --> 4437.90] His promise would be broken. -[4437.90 --> 4445.90] And at the same time, right, we read that the cross was not only necessary, but that it's also chosen. -[4445.90 --> 4446.90] Right? -[4446.90 --> 4449.90] In that same garden in Gethsemane, Jesus prays, -[4449.90 --> 4457.90] My Father, if it's possible, take this cup from me, yet not as I will, but as you will. -[4457.90 --> 4458.90] Right? -[4458.90 --> 4460.90] Jesus chooses the will of his Father. -[4460.90 --> 4464.90] He willingly chooses the cross. -[4464.90 --> 4465.90] Right? -[4465.90 --> 4466.90] Right? -[4466.90 --> 4467.90] Here's the mystery of what's going on here. -[4467.90 --> 4474.90] That necessity and choice are perfectly bound together in the person of Jesus. -[4474.90 --> 4480.90] It had to be this way, and Jesus willingly walked this way. -[4480.90 --> 4485.90] Out of a love for his Father and for us. -[4485.90 --> 4489.90] This is why the covenant of redemption matters. -[4489.90 --> 4490.90] Right? -[4490.90 --> 4495.90] From before the foundation of the world, the Father, the Son, and the Spirit covenanted together. -[4495.90 --> 4500.90] They made a promise together to save the people that they would create. -[4500.90 --> 4503.90] And the Father sends, and the Son obeys, and the Spirit applies. -[4503.90 --> 4504.90] Right? -[4504.90 --> 4506.90] The cross is not an accident of history. -[4506.90 --> 4515.90] It's the eternal plan of God, carried out in time and space for you and for me to his glory. -[4515.90 --> 4518.90] And so when Jesus, on that cross, cries out, -[4518.90 --> 4521.90] My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? -[4521.90 --> 4534.90] He's not lost in despair so much as he is fulfilling the promise of Psalm 22, identifying himself with the righteous sufferer whose vindication is certain. -[4534.90 --> 4545.90] When he breathes his last in Matthew 27, 50, he does so not in defeat, but in triumph, completing the mission that the Father has given him. -[4545.90 --> 4551.90] And so again, here in this, right, not just theology, but a real pastoral comfort. -[4551.90 --> 4552.90] Right? -[4552.90 --> 4556.90] Your salvation doesn't rest on chance. -[4556.90 --> 4559.90] It doesn't rest on your strength. -[4559.90 --> 4562.90] It doesn't even rest on your faith being strong enough. -[4562.90 --> 4571.90] It rests on what Jesus said must happen, and it rests on his choice to walk that road to the cross. -[4571.90 --> 4577.90] The cross was necessary, but it was also freely embraced by Jesus. -[4577.90 --> 4584.90] And that means your salvation is both secure and personal. -[4584.90 --> 4585.90] Right? -[4585.90 --> 4592.90] It's necessary so it cannot fail, and it's chosen so it's done in love. -[4592.90 --> 4599.90] The justice of God demands it, and the love of Christ supplies it. -[4599.90 --> 4600.90] Right? -[4600.90 --> 4608.90] Which means that the cross, right, is not defeat, but actually the cross is the deepest victory of God. -[4608.90 --> 4615.90] God's justice is satisfied, His mercy is poured out, and His people are saved. -[4615.90 --> 4624.90] If the cross then was necessary, the resurrection is indispensable. -[4624.90 --> 4625.90] Right? -[4625.90 --> 4629.90] Without the resurrection, the cross would remain a tragedy. -[4629.90 --> 4633.90] It would be noble, but ultimately a failure. -[4633.90 --> 4640.90] But with the resurrection, with the resurrection, right, the cross is revealed as God's victory. -[4640.90 --> 4644.90] As Paul puts it in Romans 4, he says, -[4644.90 --> 4651.90] Jesus was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification. -[4651.90 --> 4654.90] The two must go together. -[4654.90 --> 4658.90] And Matthew's Gospel has made this plain over and over again. -[4658.90 --> 4675.90] And here too, at the end of chapter 27, Pilate grants the request of the chief priests and the Pharisees to secure the tomb, to seal the stone, and to set a guard in front of it. -[4675.90 --> 4679.90] Now this detail isn't incidental. -[4679.90 --> 4680.90] Right? -[4680.90 --> 4685.90] It underscores just how final death was supposed to be. -[4685.90 --> 4686.90] Right? -[4686.90 --> 4692.90] Human power and authority did everything to make sure that Jesus stayed in that grave. -[4692.90 --> 4700.90] The stone, the seal, the soldiers, they're symbols in this story of death's dominion, of death's reign. -[4700.90 --> 4704.90] And then, and then chapter 28 happens. -[4704.90 --> 4705.90] Right? -[4705.90 --> 4709.90] Chapter 28 breaks in with a holy disruption. -[4709.90 --> 4716.90] We read that after the Sabbath at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look for the tomb. -[4716.90 --> 4725.90] There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven, going to the tomb, rolled back, sat on the stone. -[4725.90 --> 4726.90] Right? -[4726.90 --> 4733.90] That angel sitting casually on the stone is almost there mocking death's supposed strength. -[4733.90 --> 4734.90] Right? -[4734.90 --> 4738.90] What the Romans have sealed, heaven has unsealed. -[4738.90 --> 4744.90] What the guards have tried to enforce, God overthrows. -[4744.90 --> 4751.90] Now, I get it that this sounds like fantasy to some of us. -[4751.90 --> 4754.90] Just like Harry Potter, maybe. -[4754.90 --> 4757.90] Maybe some of you are thinking, you know, that's beautiful. -[4757.90 --> 4758.90] That sounds good. -[4758.90 --> 4759.90] But is it true? -[4759.90 --> 4761.90] Is this real? -[4761.90 --> 4762.90] Right? -[4762.90 --> 4770.90] After all, saying that death has been defeated is the most audacious claim that Christians make. -[4770.90 --> 4771.90] Right? -[4771.90 --> 4774.90] How can we know that this really happened? -[4774.90 --> 4776.90] How can we know that this is real? -[4776.90 --> 4783.90] Because every single one of us here has experienced death. -[4783.90 --> 4789.90] But I don't know if any of us have experienced resurrection after death. -[4789.90 --> 4793.90] Now, Matthew anticipates this question. -[4793.90 --> 4794.90] Right? -[4794.90 --> 4797.90] Notice in verse 11 through 15 of chapter 28. -[4797.90 --> 4798.90] We didn't read it, but it's there. -[4798.90 --> 4800.90] The very next verse is after our text. -[4800.90 --> 4807.90] The guards are bribed in order to spread the story that the disciples stole the body. -[4807.90 --> 4808.90] Right? -[4808.90 --> 4815.90] In other words, Matthew is acknowledging that from the very beginning, people tried to explain away the resurrection story. -[4815.90 --> 4820.90] And yet, the story of Jesus' resurrection cannot be silenced. -[4820.90 --> 4823.90] And there's at least three reasons why. -[4823.90 --> 4826.90] And we could go into more and we could go into deeper, but I will hit these quickly. -[4826.90 --> 4828.90] We could talk more after. -[4828.90 --> 4835.90] First of all, one of the ways we know this story to be true is because the witnesses were unlikely. -[4835.90 --> 4837.90] The witnesses were unlikely. -[4837.90 --> 4842.90] So, Matthew 28 says that the first eyewitnesses were women. -[4842.90 --> 4847.90] Now, in that culture, their testimony was not even admissible in court. -[4847.90 --> 4848.90] Right? -[4848.90 --> 4859.90] In that culture, if you were inventing a story, you wouldn't make women the first eyewitnesses to that story. -[4859.90 --> 4861.90] Because nobody would believe it. -[4861.90 --> 4870.90] And so, the only reason to tell the story this way and to include these women as the first eyewitnesses is that that's actually what happened. -[4870.90 --> 4874.90] And they're refusing to lie about it in order to strengthen the integrity of the claim. -[4874.90 --> 4876.90] It's like, no, this is real. -[4876.90 --> 4878.90] This happened this way. -[4878.90 --> 4887.90] Another reason why we can know this to be true is we can look at how the disciples themselves and their lives are transformed. -[4887.90 --> 4888.90] Right? -[4888.90 --> 4901.90] These men went from frightened deserters in Matthew 26 to bold witnesses for Christ who, each one of them, were willing to die for their testimony. -[4901.90 --> 4909.90] Now, people will die for lies that they believe to be true. -[4909.90 --> 4916.90] But no one will die for a lie that they know to be a lie. -[4916.90 --> 4917.90] Right? -[4917.90 --> 4921.90] Their courage of the disciples to face death in the manner that many of them do. -[4921.90 --> 4924.90] Peter himself, also crucified, but upside down. -[4924.90 --> 4925.90] Right? -[4925.90 --> 4934.90] The only way that that begins to make sense, the only way that we can understand their courage, is if they really saw a risen Jesus. -[4934.90 --> 4937.90] And that changed everything for them. -[4937.90 --> 4948.90] And then the third reason why, the movement of early Christianity gained nothing by telling this story. -[4948.90 --> 4951.90] In fact, they only gained persecution. -[4951.90 --> 4952.90] Right? -[4952.90 --> 4959.90] In an ancient world like this one, Christians had no cultural power to protect. -[4959.90 --> 4962.90] They had no status to lay hold of. -[4962.90 --> 4968.90] And claiming that a crucified Jew had risen from the dead didn't earn them any influence. -[4968.90 --> 4970.90] Didn't earn them any status. -[4970.90 --> 4974.90] The only thing it earned them, like we said, was hostility. -[4974.90 --> 4984.90] And if they were going to fabricate a story in order to secure their position of influence in society, this story would be the worst one to do. -[4984.90 --> 4986.90] Doesn't make sense. -[4986.90 --> 4990.90] And so, is it credible to believe in the resurrection? -[4990.90 --> 4991.90] Yes! -[4991.90 --> 4993.90] Absolutely it is! -[4993.90 --> 4995.90] But more than credible, right? -[4995.90 --> 4997.90] It's satisfying. -[4997.90 --> 5000.90] It's existentially satisfying. -[5000.90 --> 5005.90] Look, it's not just that Christianity and that the resurrection is true. -[5005.90 --> 5006.90] Right? -[5006.90 --> 5011.90] It's that Christianity is true, good, and beautiful. -[5011.90 --> 5012.90] Right? -[5012.90 --> 5019.90] If Jesus rose, then the deepest longings of the human heart, the longings for meaning and for justice, -[5019.90 --> 5026.90] the longings for a love that is stronger than death, if Jesus rose, these things aren't illusions, they're fulfilled. -[5026.90 --> 5034.90] Which means, then, that believing in the resurrection is not just wishful thinking. -[5034.90 --> 5043.90] It's actually the most reasonable, most hopeful conclusion to the evidence that we see and to the ache that we feel. -[5043.90 --> 5050.90] But again, Matthew is not just writing a defense here. -[5050.90 --> 5056.90] He's not just putting a brief together in order to stand in the courtroom of your judgment about this matter. -[5056.90 --> 5059.90] He is proclaiming good news. -[5059.90 --> 5063.90] And the angel's words that we read are at the heart of it. -[5063.90 --> 5064.90] Right? -[5064.90 --> 5073.90] The angel announces to them, do not be afraid, he says, for I know that you are looking for Jesus. -[5073.90 --> 5075.90] Jesus who was crucified. -[5075.90 --> 5076.90] He is not here. -[5076.90 --> 5079.90] He has risen just as he said. -[5079.90 --> 5082.90] Come and see the place where he lay. -[5082.90 --> 5084.90] Now, notice, again, the order. -[5084.90 --> 5088.90] Jesus who was crucified, he has risen. -[5088.90 --> 5089.90] Right? -[5089.90 --> 5094.90] Matthew is binding the cross and resurrection together. -[5094.90 --> 5098.90] Salvation doesn't come through one without the other. -[5098.90 --> 5103.90] Jesus crucified without resurrection would mean payment without vindication. -[5103.90 --> 5109.90] Jesus resurrected without crucifixion would mean triumph without atonement. -[5109.90 --> 5118.90] But the two together, death and resurrection, mean that sin has been paid for and death itself has been defeated. -[5118.90 --> 5123.90] And this is where, and these words are beautiful and true. -[5123.90 --> 5130.90] They're from Peter Chrysologos, who's a fifth century church father, pastor. -[5130.90 --> 5133.90] He was known for his eloquence in preaching. -[5133.90 --> 5138.90] And he says, the order of things has changed. -[5138.90 --> 5142.90] The tomb devours death and not the dead. -[5142.90 --> 5147.90] The house of death becomes the mansion of life. -[5147.90 --> 5152.90] The resurrection is the great reversal. -[5152.90 --> 5156.90] The place of death has become the place of life. -[5156.90 --> 5165.90] The very thing that swallowed up humanity from Adam onward is itself swallowed up by Christ. -[5165.90 --> 5166.90] Okay. -[5168.90 --> 5169.90] See it this way. -[5169.90 --> 5179.90] In the Old Testament, and when you read the Old Testament, for a Jewish person to touch a corpse made you unclean. -[5179.90 --> 5180.90] Right? -[5180.90 --> 5184.90] Death contaminated everything it touched. -[5184.90 --> 5195.90] But Jesus, Jesus is so holy, so full of divine life, that when he touches death, it's death itself that becomes cleansed. -[5195.90 --> 5196.90] Right? -[5196.90 --> 5199.90] The uncleanness of death doesn't reach into him and touch him. -[5199.90 --> 5203.90] His perfect cleanliness reaches out and swallows up death. -[5203.90 --> 5204.90] Death doesn't stain him. -[5204.90 --> 5206.90] He sanctifies death. -[5206.90 --> 5211.90] Death is swallowed up, not by its own power, but by his holiness. -[5211.90 --> 5212.90] Right? -[5212.90 --> 5221.90] That's why the Apostle Paul can exclaim in 1 Corinthians 15, these beautiful words where he shouts, death has been swallowed up in victory. -[5222.90 --> 5223.90] Where, O death, is your victory? -[5223.90 --> 5225.90] Where, O death, is your sting? -[5226.90 --> 5227.90] Right? -[5227.90 --> 5233.90] Matthew wants us to see that the resurrection transforms everything, even death. -[5233.90 --> 5234.90] Right? -[5234.90 --> 5235.90] Right? -[5235.90 --> 5237.90] That's why he repeats that phrase, do not be afraid. -[5237.90 --> 5238.90] Right? -[5238.90 --> 5247.90] The resurrection means that the deepest human longing, the deepest human fear, death itself, no longer has that last word. -[5247.90 --> 5248.90] Right? -[5248.90 --> 5250.90] That final enemy is defeated. -[5250.90 --> 5254.90] The worst thing that could ever happen has already happened in Christ. -[5254.90 --> 5255.90] We died with him. -[5255.90 --> 5260.90] And the best thing that could ever happen and will ever happen has already begun. -[5260.90 --> 5262.90] We are raised with him. -[5263.90 --> 5267.90] And think then how this answers our deepest ache. -[5267.90 --> 5268.90] Right? -[5268.90 --> 5271.90] This longing for victory over death. -[5271.90 --> 5272.90] Right? -[5272.90 --> 5277.90] The very thing that we try to distract ourselves from, to delay and to redefine. -[5277.90 --> 5279.90] But only Jesus defeats it. -[5280.90 --> 5283.90] Only Jesus steps into it and emerges victorious. -[5283.90 --> 5288.90] Only Jesus transformed the tomb into the doorway of life. -[5289.90 --> 5293.90] And again, this isn't abstract. -[5294.90 --> 5296.90] This is deeply personal. -[5296.90 --> 5301.90] The resurrection isn't just an event to admire. -[5301.90 --> 5304.90] It's a reality that we share in. -[5304.90 --> 5307.90] The Apostle Paul, again, in Colossians 3, says, -[5307.90 --> 5311.90] Since then you have been raised with Christ. -[5311.90 --> 5316.90] Set your hearts on things above where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. -[5317.90 --> 5318.90] Right? -[5318.90 --> 5323.90] Already now, in union with him, you are raised. -[5323.90 --> 5326.90] Already, his life is yours. -[5326.90 --> 5333.90] And that means, when you stand at the grave of someone you love. -[5333.90 --> 5338.90] When you feel the decline of your own body. -[5338.90 --> 5344.90] When you live in a moment of pain to pain to pain. -[5344.90 --> 5349.90] When you are haunted by the shadow of mortality. -[5349.90 --> 5352.90] You don't stand there alone. -[5352.90 --> 5355.90] Jesus has gone before you. -[5355.90 --> 5359.90] And he has turned the house of death into the mansion of life. -[5359.90 --> 5360.90] Right? -[5360.90 --> 5363.90] And the angel's command is still God's word to you. -[5363.90 --> 5365.90] Do not be afraid. -[5365.90 --> 5366.90] Right? -[5366.90 --> 5368.90] Because Christ has risen. -[5368.90 --> 5370.90] The last enemy is defeated. -[5370.90 --> 5375.90] And the greatest hope that you could ever know and long for is secure in him. -[5375.90 --> 5380.90] And if the resurrection is true, and boy, do I believe it is. -[5380.90 --> 5383.90] If the resurrection is true, then what's next? -[5385.90 --> 5388.90] If the resurrection is true, that can't remain a private thing. -[5388.90 --> 5395.90] You can't just sit there like you are right now, honestly, passively, receiving this news going, hmm, yeah, okay. -[5395.90 --> 5397.90] That's what he says every week. -[5397.90 --> 5399.90] This has to be a public message. -[5399.90 --> 5400.90] Right? -[5400.90 --> 5401.90] Notice the angel's message. -[5401.90 --> 5404.90] He says, go quickly and tell the disciples. -[5404.90 --> 5407.90] Again, when Jesus meets them, he says, do not be afraid. -[5407.90 --> 5411.90] Go tell my brothers to go to Galilee where they will see me. -[5411.90 --> 5419.90] From the very first moment on that very first resurrection Sunday, resurrection faith has to become resurrection witness. -[5419.90 --> 5422.90] And this message doesn't stop with the disciples. -[5422.90 --> 5433.90] Right at the end of Matthew's Gospel, these last few words, Jesus now speaks the Great Commission, not only to them, but through them to each of us. -[5433.90 --> 5443.90] All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me, therefore go and make disciples of all nations. -[5443.90 --> 5444.90] Right? -[5444.90 --> 5446.90] There is a clear logic here. -[5446.90 --> 5456.90] Because Jesus is risen, because death and sin are conquered, because he reigns with all authority, therefore go. -[5456.90 --> 5457.90] Right? -[5457.90 --> 5460.90] The Gospel is not only the good news that your sins are forgiven. -[5460.90 --> 5465.90] It's the good news that the entire cosmos is being remade. -[5465.90 --> 5466.90] Right? -[5466.90 --> 5481.90] Again, Paul in Colossians says that through Christ's blood shed on the cross, God was pleased to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood. -[5481.90 --> 5482.90] Right? -[5482.90 --> 5486.90] The victory of God in Christ doesn't just stop with your heart. -[5486.90 --> 5489.90] It stretches to the whole of creation. -[5489.90 --> 5490.90] Right? -[5490.90 --> 5494.90] The substitutionary death of Jesus secures cosmic renewal. -[5494.90 --> 5499.90] And his resurrection is not just your hope for life after death. -[5499.90 --> 5502.90] It's creation's hope for restoration. -[5502.90 --> 5509.90] As Paul says in Romans 8, the whole creation is groaning, waiting for its liberation from decay. -[5509.90 --> 5516.90] Resurrection Sunday is the dawn of that liberation. -[5516.90 --> 5519.90] This is the moment we live in now. -[5519.90 --> 5521.90] And that's huge. -[5521.90 --> 5522.90] That's cosmic. -[5522.90 --> 5524.90] That's eternal. -[5524.90 --> 5525.90] That's world shaking. -[5525.90 --> 5530.90] But it also comes close. -[5530.90 --> 5535.90] Down to earth in the ordinary details of our lives together. -[5535.90 --> 5538.90] Picture this. -[5538.90 --> 5541.90] Imagine you are planting a garden. -[5541.90 --> 5542.90] You're kneeling in the dirt. -[5542.90 --> 5545.90] You're pressing seeds into the soil. -[5545.90 --> 5548.90] And for a while, it looks like nothing. -[5548.90 --> 5552.90] And for a while longer, it looks like nothing. -[5552.90 --> 5557.90] And for a little while longer yet, it looks like nothing, especially if I'm gardening. -[5557.90 --> 5564.90] But then, one day, in spite of myself and all my lack of effort, something breaks through. -[5564.90 --> 5565.90] Right? -[5565.90 --> 5570.90] That small green shoot that pops through is proof that winter is not forever. -[5570.90 --> 5571.90] Right? -[5571.90 --> 5572.90] That's what the resurrection is. -[5572.90 --> 5573.90] Right? -[5573.90 --> 5578.90] The first green shoot of new creation breaking through into the soil of a dying world. -[5578.90 --> 5584.90] And whether you water the plants or whether you care for creation or whether you reconcile -[5584.90 --> 5589.90] with a friend or restore a relationship to your parents, whether you share the gospel -[5589.90 --> 5594.90] with your neighbor, whenever you do these things, you are participating in the cosmic renewal -[5594.90 --> 5597.90] that began at the empty tomb. -[5597.90 --> 5601.90] Because Jesus is risen, you must go and tell. -[5601.90 --> 5608.90] Because Jesus is risen, you must live and love as those who belong to this world of new creation. -[5608.90 --> 5613.90] And this, then, is how it's all fitting together. -[5613.90 --> 5614.90] Right? -[5614.90 --> 5619.90] Our deepest longing is victory over death. -[5619.90 --> 5623.90] And what we begin to see is the cross is necessary for that. -[5623.90 --> 5629.90] Not an accident, but the only way that God's justice and mercy could meet. -[5629.90 --> 5634.90] And the resurrection is proof of this, that death is undone, that sin is defeated, and that -[5634.90 --> 5636.90] life is secure. -[5636.90 --> 5646.90] And because this is true, you are sent to proclaim it, to live as a witness to Jesus Christ, to -[5646.90 --> 5650.90] live as a witness to this empty tomb. -[5650.90 --> 5653.90] That's the logic of the gospel. -[5653.90 --> 5654.90] Right? -[5654.90 --> 5661.90] That the cross and the resurrection secure salvation and therefore send us out on mission. -[5661.90 --> 5664.90] But here's my last word. -[5664.90 --> 5666.90] This mission is not a burden. -[5666.90 --> 5668.90] It's an invitation. -[5668.90 --> 5669.90] Right? -[5669.90 --> 5674.90] You are sent from this place with the words, -[5674.90 --> 5679.90] Do not be afraid, not to earn anything, but to announce everything. -[5679.90 --> 5680.90] Right? -[5680.90 --> 5685.90] You are not sent on your own strength, but you are sent in His authority. -[5685.90 --> 5693.90] And Jesus says, surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. -[5693.90 --> 5694.90] This is the invitation. -[5694.90 --> 5695.90] This is the invitation. -[5695.90 --> 5696.90] Behold your King. -[5696.90 --> 5704.90] See in Him and in His cross love and mercy meeting. -[5704.90 --> 5709.90] See Him in His resurrection where death itself is swallowed up. -[5709.90 --> 5713.90] See Him in His commission in sending us out to the nations. -[5713.90 --> 5720.90] And as you behold your King, let your heart rise to worship. -[5720.90 --> 5728.90] I want to invite the worship team to come up as we finish this time together. -[5728.90 --> 5735.90] Because in the end, the resurrection is not only something to be explained, it's something -[5735.90 --> 5736.90] to be adored. -[5736.90 --> 5739.90] It's not just a truth to defend. -[5739.90 --> 5741.90] It's a person to worship. -[5741.90 --> 5742.90] Right? -[5742.90 --> 5747.90] The one who was crucified is risen and now says to you, do not be afraid. -[5747.90 --> 5755.90] I'm going to ask all of you, if you can, stand up. -[5755.90 --> 5762.90] So come, weary heart, behold your King. -[5762.90 --> 5766.90] Come, broken sinner, behold your King. -[5766.90 --> 5770.90] Come, doubting disciple, fearful of death. -[5770.90 --> 5772.90] Behold your King in this moment. -[5772.90 --> 5775.90] The cross is not defeat. -[5775.90 --> 5776.90] It is victory. -[5776.90 --> 5777.90] The tomb is not the end. -[5777.90 --> 5778.90] It is the beginning. -[5778.90 --> 5780.90] Death is not the master. -[5780.90 --> 5781.90] Christ is. -[5781.90 --> 5786.90] And because He lives, you too will live. -[5786.90 --> 5788.90] And so, lift up your eyes. -[5788.90 --> 5789.90] Lift up your voice. -[5789.90 --> 5791.90] Lift up your heart. -[5791.90 --> 5798.90] Behold the crucified and risen Jesus, your Savior, your Lord, your King. -[5798.90 --> 5801.90] Worship Him. -[5801.90 --> 5805.90] Let's worship Him in song right now. -[5805.90 --> 5830.90] Let's worship Him in song right now. -[5830.90 --> 5837.90] See Him there, the great I am. -[5837.90 --> 5844.90] The crown of gold upon His hand. -[5844.90 --> 5851.90] The Father's heart displayed for us. -[5851.90 --> 5862.90] Oh God, we thank you for the crown. -[5862.90 --> 5868.90] Lifted up on Calvary's end. -[5868.90 --> 5872.90] We curse your name. -[5872.90 --> 5878.90] And we unstill you for our shame. -[5878.90 --> 5882.90] And take the cross. -[5882.90 --> 5889.90] Oh God, we thank you for the crown. -[5893.90 --> 5897.90] Behold the Lamb. -[5897.90 --> 5903.90] The story of redemption written on His hands. -[5903.90 --> 5907.90] Jesus, you will reign forevermore. -[5908.90 --> 5912.90] The victory is yours. -[5913.90 --> 5916.90] We sing your praise. -[5917.90 --> 5922.90] Endless hallelujahs to your holy name. -[5922.90 --> 5927.90] Jesus, you will reign forevermore. -[5927.90 --> 5932.90] The victory is yours. -[5932.90 --> 5941.90] Offer up His sacrifice. -[5941.90 --> 5947.90] For every sin our Savior done. -[5947.90 --> 5948.90] The Lord of mine. -[5948.90 --> 5949.90] The Lord of mine. -[5949.90 --> 5950.90] The Lord of mine. -[5950.90 --> 5954.90] His peace contains. -[5954.90 --> 5962.90] Our God has risen from the grave. -[5962.90 --> 5968.90] Oh, our God has risen from the grave. -[5968.90 --> 5971.90] Oh, our God has risen from their feet. -[5971.90 --> 5985.90] The Saviorunda does not. -[5985.90 --> 5989.90] The glory of His grace. -[5989.90 --> 5999.58] We sing your praise, endless hallelujahs to your holy name. -[5999.58 --> 6009.24] Jesus, you will reign forevermore, the victory is yours. -[6009.24 --> 6025.54] When the age of death is done, we'll see your face bright as the sun. -[6025.54 --> 6039.22] We'll bow before the King of kings, O God, forever we will sing. -[6039.24 --> 6054.32] We bow before the Lamb, the story of redemption is on its hands. -[6054.32 --> 6063.32] Jesus, you will reign forevermore, the victory is yours. -[6063.32 --> 6073.60] We sing your praise, endless hallelujahs to your holy name. -[6074.28 --> 6081.32] Jesus, you will reign forevermore, the victory is yours. -[6081.32 --> 6087.52] You will reign forevermore, the victory is yours. -[6087.52 --> 6094.32] Jesus, you will reign forevermore, the victory is yours. -[6094.32 --> 6116.22] You are sent in the power of God who has defeated death. -[6116.22 --> 6120.38] You are sent in the power of resurrection. -[6121.50 --> 6127.08] You are sent in the power of the Holy Spirit who lives in you. -[6128.04 --> 6132.50] And so go and live this message. -[6133.08 --> 6137.62] Go and proclaim this truth and go with God. -[6138.16 --> 6140.94] So receive his blessing for the journey ahead. -[6140.94 --> 6144.58] God, go before you to lead you. -[6145.26 --> 6147.34] God, go behind you to protect you. -[6148.02 --> 6150.10] God, go beneath you to support you. -[6150.44 --> 6153.24] And God, go beside you to befriend you. -[6154.04 --> 6156.12] Do not be afraid. -[6156.90 --> 6158.90] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[6159.06 --> 6166.44] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[6166.44 --> 6167.88] Amen. -[6171.44 --> 6181.06] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[6181.30 --> 6183.84] He is wonderful. -[6185.44 --> 6194.62] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[6194.62 --> 6197.62] He is wonderful. -[6197.62 --> 6198.62] He is wonderful. -[6198.62 --> 6208.62] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[6208.62 --> 6210.62] He is wonderful. -[6210.62 --> 6221.62] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[6221.62 --> 6224.62] He is wonderful. -[6224.62 --> 6225.62] He is wonderful. -[6225.62 --> 6226.62] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[6226.62 --> 6227.62] He is wonderful. -[6227.62 --> 6228.62] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[6228.62 --> 6232.62] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[6232.62 --> 6233.62] He is wonderful. -[6233.62 --> 6234.62] Great is he who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[6234.62 --> 6235.62] He is wonderful. -[6235.62 --> 6238.32] He is wonderful. -[6241.10 --> 6242.54] Alleluia. -[6243.04 --> 6245.74] Salvation and glory. -[6246.10 --> 6248.82] Honor and power. -[6249.42 --> 6251.86] He is wonderful. -[6254.92 --> 6256.20] Alleluia. -[6256.20 --> 6259.42] Salvation and glory. -[6259.72 --> 6262.48] Honor and power. -[6262.48 --> 6265.78] He is wonderful. -[6267.34 --> 6269.48] Alleluia. -[6270.48 --> 6273.24] Salvation and glory. -[6273.58 --> 6276.14] Honor and power. -[6276.94 --> 6280.02] You are wonderful. -[6292.48 --> 6294.48] Alleluia. -[6294.48 --> 6295.48] Alleluia. -[6295.48 --> 6297.48] Alleluia. -[6297.48 --> 6299.48] Alleluia. -[6299.48 --> 6301.48] Alleluia. -[6302.26 --> 6303.48] Alleluia. -[6305.96 --> 6306.98] Lord, -[6307.40 --> 6308.48] Alleluia. -[6308.48 --> 6310.48] Alleluia. -[6310.48 --> 6312.48] Alleluia. -[6312.48 --> 6313.36] Alleluia. -[6313.36 --> 6343.34] Thank you. -[6343.36 --> 6373.34] Thank you. -[6373.36 --> 6375.36] Thank you. -[6403.36 --> 6405.36] Thank you. -[6433.36 --> 6435.36] Thank you. -[6463.36 --> 6465.36] Thank you. -[6493.36 --> 6495.36] Thank you. -[6523.36 --> 6525.36] Thank you. -[6553.36 --> 6555.36] Thank you. -[6583.36 --> 6585.36] Thank you. -[6613.36 --> 6615.36] Thank you. -[6643.36 --> 6645.36] Thank you. -[6673.36 --> 6675.36] Thank you. -[6703.36 --> 6705.36] Thank you. -[6733.36 --> 6735.36] Thank you. -[6763.36 --> 6765.36] Thank you. -[6765.36 --> 6767.36] Thank you. -[6767.36 --> 6769.36] Thank you. -[6769.36 --> 6799.34] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 14, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 14, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 158d8cdf2ed35ea329d03bb7840f1ff3c6673274..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 14, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,76 +0,0 @@ -• Introductory phrases -• Thank you repeated multiple times -• Prayer or devotional content mentioning: - • Joyful blessings - • Prayer requests for various groups (poor, marginalized, etc.) - • Asking for help to be just and compassionate leaders - • Forgiveness for sins and personal shortcomings - • Requests for help with self-control and kindness during the Advent season -• Prayers for specific individuals (Elaine Benny, Lina Cepkema, John Kuypers) and families (Bolt, Muller) -• Thanksgivings for birth announcements (Hazel Josephine Welfing) -• Reading from the Bible: Luke 2:8-20 and Matthew 2:1-12 -• Reflection on the Advent season and waiting for the promised King -• The shepherds returned to their flocks, glorifying God after visiting Jesus -• Magi from the east came to Jerusalem, asking about the newborn King of the Jews, and were sent to Bethlehem by King Herod -• The Magi found Jesus with his mother, worshipped him, and gave gifts -• Discussion on why Christmas can be a time of both joy and loneliness for some people -• Reflection on how Christmas decorations, music, and festivities are temporary and cannot provide lasting happiness -• Importance of recognizing Jesus as the true source of joy and worship during Advent -• Christ must be the source of our joy for Christmas to have true meaning -• The shepherds' visitation by angels shows that even humble people can experience profound joy in Christ -• Shepherds were often looked down upon by Israelites due to their occupation, but God chose them to receive the announcement of Jesus' birth -• Joy broke into the lives of the shepherds when they saw Jesus for who he is and worshiped him -• The Magi's visitation shows that people from different backgrounds and cultures can come together in joy at Christ's birth -• In the Old Testament, God strictly outlaws seeking power or blessings from anything other than Himself, including divination, sorcery, and astrology. -• Divination is seeking knowledge of the future through various methods including dreams, stars, and natural omens -• God's people in the Bible are warned against using such practices against His will -• Isaiah 2-6 and 47 condemn divination and magic, stating that it has no power over God -• The Israelites are trying to find meaning and joy through astrology and divination, rather than devoting themselves to God -• Balaam, a pagan prophet for hire, is confronted by God in Numbers 20-25 -• Daniel, a young boy taken by the Babylonians, becomes a trained prophet of God who uses his knowledge of the pagan arts for God's purposes -• Magicians and enchanters played a significant role in King Darius' kingdom, but Daniel's faith remained unwavering -• Magi (magicians) were used to understand dreams and celestial signs for kings in Babylonian culture -• Daniel was called upon by God to interpret these same types of dreams and visions -• The Magi who visited Jesus were skilled astronomers from the East, including areas like Babylon and Persia -• They were likely following astrological signs, similar to modern horoscope readers -• These Magi were part of a tradition that involved seeking knowledge and power through other means than God -• A prophecy in Numbers 24 suggests a star would rise out of Jacob, indicating Jesus' birth was foretold by pagan prophets -• Israelites do not recognize Jesus as the Messiah -• Gentile pagans see Jesus as the Messiah -• Herod is threatened by Jesus' birth and seeks to kill all children under 2 years old in Bethlehem -• Herod's reaction is fear, anger, and a desire to maintain his power -• The Magi and shepherds recognize Jesus as the true king of Israel and worship him -• Herod sees Jesus as a threat to his self-made kingdom and vision for his life -• The true joy of Advent is not found in material possessions or cultural traditions -• Jesus' birth is the reason for the season, and He should be the center of our celebration -• We must let Christ shape our vision of joy and worship Him with our lives -• Three ways to let Christ shape our Christmas: - • Tell others about the joy we have in Jesus - • Worship the Lord and give ourselves fully to Him like the Magi - • Submit all visions and dreams to Christ and His vision for our lives -• Invitation to partake in the Lord's Supper -• Instructions for receiving the elements (bread and juice) -• Explanation of gluten-free options available -• Invitation to meet with the worship team or elders for prayer -• Introduction of the back-up team who will facilitate the service -• Repeated expressions of gratitude and praise to God -• Beliefs and affirmations -• The power of Jesus Christ -• Resurrection and eternal life -• Holy Spirit and God's presence -• Faith and trust in Jesus -• Music and singing as a form of praise and worship -• Testimony and personal testimony of faith -• Themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption -• Father's land and the presence of God -• Filling with power, mercy, and righteousness -• Jesus walking in our shoes and feeling our faith -• Joy and sorrow, but hope through His righteousness -• Following Emmanuel through trials and suffering -• Death defeated by Emmanuel -• Interceding for loved ones and awaiting Father's call -• Pride and fear of hell vs. hope of heaven -• Giving glory to Emmanuel -• The Lord's blessings and peace -• Repeated expression of "Amen" -• Expression of gratitude with repeated "Thank you"s \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 14, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 14, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 4dcf51b4249cf40bad56bcf4935bbb3d73583155..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 14, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,883 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.00] Woah! -[6.12 --> 8.44] Oh, thank you so much. -[8.54 --> 11.54] I'd like to see you in the next video. -[11.66 --> 15.50] Simon Prince, Wow! -[17.46 --> 20.00] Massage! -[20.00 --> 22.46] Yeah! -[22.46 --> 24.92] That was done! -[24.92 --> 54.90] Thank you. -[54.92 --> 84.90] Thank you. -[84.92 --> 114.90] Thank you. -[114.92 --> 144.90] Thank you. -[144.92 --> 174.90] Thank you. -[174.92 --> 204.90] Thank you. -[204.92 --> 234.90] Thank you. -[234.92 --> 264.90] Thank you. -[264.92 --> 294.90] Thank you. -[294.92 --> 324.90] Thank you. -[324.92 --> 354.90] Thank you. -[354.92 --> 384.90] Thank you. -[384.90 --> 414.88] Thank you. -[414.90 --> 444.88] Thank you. -[444.88 --> 474.86] Thank you. -[474.88 --> 504.86] Thank you. -[504.88 --> 534.86] Thank you. -[534.86 --> 564.84] Thank you. -[564.88 --> 594.84] Thank you. -[594.84 --> 624.82] Thank you. -[624.84 --> 654.82] Thank you. -[654.84 --> 656.84] Thank you. -[684.84 --> 714.82] Thank you. -[714.82 --> 744.80] Thank you. -[744.80 --> 774.78] Thank you. -[774.78 --> 804.76] Thank you. -[804.78 --> 834.76] Thank you. -[834.78 --> 864.76] Thank you. -[864.78 --> 894.76] Thank you. -[894.78 --> 924.76] Thank you. -[924.78 --> 954.76] Thank you. -[954.78 --> 984.76] Thank you. -[984.78 --> 1014.76] Thank you. -[1014.78 --> 1044.76] Thank you. -[1044.76 --> 1044.78] Thank you. -[1074.76 --> 1104.74] Thank you. -[1104.76 --> 1134.74] Thank you. -[1134.76 --> 1164.74] Thank you. -[1164.76 --> 1194.74] Thank you. -[1194.76 --> 1224.74] Thank you. -[1224.76 --> 1254.74] Thank you. -[1254.74 --> 1284.72] Thank you. -[1284.74 --> 1314.72] Thank you. -[1314.74 --> 1344.72] Thank you. -[1344.74 --> 1374.72] Thank you. -[1374.74 --> 1404.72] Thank you. -[1404.74 --> 1434.72] Thank you. -[1434.74 --> 1464.72] Thank you. -[1464.74 --> 1494.72] Thank you. -[1494.74 --> 1524.74] Thank you. -[1524.74 --> 1554.72] Thank you. -[1554.74 --> 1584.72] Thank you. -[1584.74 --> 1614.72] Thank you. -[1614.74 --> 1644.72] Thank you. -[1644.72 --> 1674.72] Thank you. -[1674.72 --> 1704.70] Thank you. -[1704.72 --> 1734.70] Thank you. -[1734.70 --> 1764.70] Thank you. -[1764.70 --> 1794.68] Thank you. -[1794.68 --> 1824.66] Thank you. -[1824.68 --> 1854.66] Thank you. -[1854.66 --> 1884.66] Thank you. -[1884.66 --> 1914.66] Thank you. -[1914.66 --> 1944.64] Thank you. -[1944.64 --> 1974.64] Thank you. -[1974.64 --> 2004.64] Thank you. -[2004.64 --> 2034.62] Thank you. -[2034.64 --> 2064.62] Thank you. -[2064.64 --> 2094.62] Thank you. -[2094.64 --> 2124.62] Thank you. -[2124.64 --> 2154.62] Thank you. -[2154.64 --> 2184.62] Thank you. -[2184.64 --> 2214.62] Thank you. -[2214.62 --> 2244.60] Good morning. -[2244.60 --> 2274.60] Thank you. -[2274.60 --> 2304.58] We're in the -[2304.58 --> 2334.58] joyful. -[2334.60 --> 2364.56] And we're going to do -[2364.56 --> 2394.54] and you're going to say, -[2394.56 --> 2424.54] be with you. -[2424.56 --> 2454.54] Good morning. -[2454.54 --> 2484.52] Heavenly Father, -[2484.52 --> 2514.52] and we're going to do, -[2514.52 --> 2544.50] we're filled with you. -[2544.50 --> 2574.48] and we're going to do, -[2574.48 --> 2604.48] and we're with you, we're going to do, -[2604.48 --> 2634.48] we're going to do, -[2634.48 --> 2664.46] we're going to do, we're going to need you, and we're going to do, and we're going to do, -[2664.46 --> 2673.46] the poor, the marginalized, the divorced, the elderly, the unborn, the sick, the lonely, -[2673.46 --> 2682.46] the unemployed, the addicts, the enslaved, those grieving. -[2682.46 --> 2687.46] Father, help us to be just to all your image bearers, wherever they are, -[2687.46 --> 2691.46] and whatever situation they are in. -[2691.46 --> 2698.46] Equip our leaders to be caring people that declare our world belongs to you. -[2698.46 --> 2704.46] Forgive us our sins as we also forgive those who have sinned against us. -[2704.46 --> 2714.46] Keep us from greed, overconsumption, pride, envy, anger, lust, and laziness. -[2714.46 --> 2729.46] It's easy to overeat or drink, to ignore the needs of others, to compare gifts, to be in conflict with family. -[2729.46 --> 2732.46] Lord, forgive us. -[2732.46 --> 2740.46] Help us to share what we have to help each other and be gentle and kind with everyone we meet this Advent season, -[2740.46 --> 2744.46] reflecting your love to the world. -[2744.46 --> 2751.46] Lord, let us be quick to enter into the pain of those around us and see life from their perspective, -[2751.46 --> 2754.46] to imagine their pain is ours. -[2754.46 --> 2763.46] Lord, we thank you, Father, that Jesus knows our pain, that he lived, suffered, and died for each one of us, -[2763.46 --> 2771.46] so that we never have to be alone, and that he felt our temptations, pains, sadness, and afflictions. -[2771.46 --> 2778.46] He was tempted as we are, yet without sin. -[2778.46 --> 2784.46] Let the Savior's majesty give us the confidence to boldly approach your throne of grace, -[2784.46 --> 2790.46] as we offer comfort and seek it ourselves. -[2790.46 --> 2796.46] We pray at this time for Elaine Benny, who is battling stomach cancer. -[2796.46 --> 2802.46] Grant him strength, Lord, and healing during this time of trial. -[2802.46 --> 2808.46] Also support his parents by giving them peace and courage. -[2808.46 --> 2814.46] We pray for Lina Cepkema and her husband Wes. -[2814.46 --> 2820.46] As Lina had a fall and ended up in hospital for a number of days, -[2820.46 --> 2826.46] we pray that you will provide and grant her full healing. -[2826.46 --> 2829.46] And she's at home now. -[2829.46 --> 2836.46] We pray for John Kuypers, who also needs the blessing of patience in his trying time, -[2836.46 --> 2839.46] of very demanding health concerns. -[2839.46 --> 2845.46] Give that the surgeon has clear plans for tackling his concerns, -[2845.46 --> 2850.46] and that he can follow a path that will lead to healing and restoration. -[2850.46 --> 2854.46] Bless John with peace in a time of anxiety. -[2854.46 --> 2862.46] Bless the Muller and Bolt families, as they grieve the loss of Corr Bolt, -[2862.46 --> 2868.46] father to Corinne Muller and grandfather to Brianne, Matthew, and Anthony. -[2868.46 --> 2874.46] We also thank you, Father, with Frank and Sylvia Welfing, -[2874.46 --> 2878.46] for the birth of their granddaughter, Hazel Josephine. -[2878.46 --> 2883.46] Thank you that all is well with mother and child. -[2887.46 --> 2892.46] And so, Lord, in this Advent season, as we see brokenness and despair, -[2892.46 --> 2895.46] we wait for the promised King. -[2895.46 --> 2898.46] Help us to hold on to hope and joy, -[2898.46 --> 2904.46] knowing that Christ's rule has begun and his spirit is renewing creation. -[2904.46 --> 2907.46] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[2907.46 --> 2912.46] Fully establish and restore this kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. -[2912.46 --> 2915.46] Bring justice where there is oppression, -[2915.46 --> 2917.46] peace where there is conflict, -[2917.46 --> 2920.46] and healing where there is suffering. -[2920.46 --> 2923.46] May your glory dwell in our land, -[2923.46 --> 2927.46] and your light shine in the darkness. -[2927.46 --> 2933.46] Make our joy complete in anticipation of Christ's full return and rule. -[2935.46 --> 2937.46] You keep covenant forever, O God. -[2937.46 --> 2941.46] You come to us now in your people and your spirit, -[2941.46 --> 2943.46] and you will come again in glory. -[2943.46 --> 2949.46] We await you, the God who comes with expectant hearts. -[2949.46 --> 2953.46] In Jesus' name, Amen. -[2953.46 --> 2955.46] Amen. -[2968.46 --> 2969.46] Okay. -[2970.46 --> 2972.46] Thank you, Pim, for praying. -[2973.46 --> 2974.46] Good morning, everybody. -[2974.46 --> 2978.46] We are reading from two passages today, as we've been doing in Advent. -[2978.46 --> 2983.46] We are reading from Luke 2, verses 8 to 20, -[2983.46 --> 2986.46] and Matthew 2, verses 1 to 12. -[2986.46 --> 2989.46] I encourage you to go get a Bible or open up your phones. -[2990.46 --> 2992.46] While you're doing that, -[2992.46 --> 2997.46] on Wednesdays and Thursdays, I've been working at Gateway Christian Reformed Church -[2997.46 --> 3001.46] just for the interim while they can find a youth pastor for a permanent position. -[3001.46 --> 3007.46] While I'm there, I have to give a short message in front of about a hundred youth both nights. -[3008.46 --> 3009.46] Gateway's too big of a church. -[3010.46 --> 3015.46] And that has really made this way less nerve-wracking. -[3018.46 --> 3020.46] They're a much harder crowd. -[3021.46 --> 3025.46] That being said, I'm going to quickly pray, and then we're going to read the Bible today. -[3025.46 --> 3026.46] Dear Lord, thank you for this day. -[3026.46 --> 3030.46] Thank you for a chance to preach, and thank you for a chance to hear your word. -[3030.46 --> 3033.46] I pray, Lord, that the words that come out of my mouth are not my own, but yours. -[3034.46 --> 3039.46] And I pray, Lord, that we would be blessed by these stories about the shepherds and the Magi, -[3040.46 --> 3041.46] and most importantly, Christ. -[3042.46 --> 3044.46] In Jesus' name I pray. Amen. -[3045.46 --> 3046.46] Okay. -[3047.46 --> 3049.46] Luke 2, verse 8. -[3049.46 --> 3056.46] And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. -[3056.46 --> 3061.46] An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. -[3062.46 --> 3064.46] But the angel said to them, -[3064.46 --> 3065.46] Do not be afraid. -[3068.46 --> 3072.46] I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. -[3072.46 --> 3077.46] Today, in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you. -[3077.46 --> 3080.46] He is the Messiah, the Lord. -[3081.46 --> 3082.46] This will be a sign to you. -[3082.46 --> 3086.46] You will find a baby, wrapped in clothes and lying in a manger. -[3087.46 --> 3091.46] And suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, -[3092.46 --> 3093.46] praising God and saying, -[3093.46 --> 3097.46] Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests. -[3097.46 --> 3103.46] When the angels left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, -[3104.46 --> 3108.46] Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about. -[3109.46 --> 3113.46] So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph and the baby, who was lying in a manger. -[3114.46 --> 3118.46] When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told of them about this child. -[3119.46 --> 3123.46] And all who heard of it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. -[3123.46 --> 3127.46] But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. -[3128.46 --> 3132.46] The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, -[3133.46 --> 3135.46] which were just as they had been told. -[3137.46 --> 3139.46] And now Matthew 2, verses 1-12. -[3139.46 --> 3145.46] After Jesus was born in Bethlehem, in Judea, during the time of King Herod, -[3146.46 --> 3149.46] Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, -[3150.46 --> 3152.46] Where is the one who has been born King of the Jews? -[3153.46 --> 3156.46] We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him. -[3158.46 --> 3162.46] When King Herod heard this, he was disturbed, and all of Jerusalem with him. -[3162.46 --> 3167.46] When he had called together all the people's chief priests and the teachers of the law, -[3167.46 --> 3169.46] he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. -[3170.46 --> 3173.46] In Bethlehem, in Judea, they replied. -[3174.46 --> 3175.46] For this is what the prophet has written. -[3176.46 --> 3184.46] For you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judea, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah. -[3184.46 --> 3190.46] For out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel. -[3191.46 --> 3197.46] Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. -[3198.46 --> 3200.46] He sent them to Bethlehem and said, -[3201.46 --> 3202.46] Go and search carefully for the child. -[3203.46 --> 3207.46] As soon as you find him, report to me so that I too may go and worship him. -[3208.46 --> 3211.46] After they had heard the king, they went on their way, -[3211.46 --> 3214.46] and the star that they had seen when it arose went ahead of them -[3214.46 --> 3216.46] until it stopped over the place where the child was. -[3217.46 --> 3220.46] When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. -[3221.46 --> 3225.46] On coming to the house, they saw that the child was with his mother, -[3225.46 --> 3227.46] and they bowed down and worshipped him. -[3228.46 --> 3234.46] Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. -[3234.46 --> 3237.46] And having been warned in a dream not to go back to here, -[3237.46 --> 3240.46] they returned to their country by another route. -[3241.46 --> 3242.46] The word of the Lord. -[3246.46 --> 3253.46] The Christmas season is often a time where people can be either more frustrated and crazed and angry than usual -[3254.46 --> 3257.46] because of shopping or expectations or road conditions. -[3258.46 --> 3263.46] Or for others, it can be a place where people are more lonely due to the focus on family and community. -[3263.46 --> 3268.46] And there could be a real, very real pain there. -[3268.46 --> 3278.46] It can also be a time where people are happier due to the lights and the music that exude a sense of comfort and warmth amidst the dreary winter weather. -[3278.46 --> 3282.46] Christmas is my favorite holiday. -[3282.46 --> 3289.46] The candles we fill our churches and homes with and lights that line the streets and the stores at night. -[3289.46 --> 3293.46] Their warm light gives off a general sense of comfort that is beautiful. -[3293.46 --> 3300.46] The stores and malls are decorated in colors and trees that fill us with nostalgia of our favorite Christmas movies and memories. -[3300.46 --> 3306.46] I love family gatherings, work parties, and gift exchanges. -[3306.46 --> 3308.46] I love how it makes me feel. -[3308.46 --> 3319.46] I like walking at night and seeing that glow in the sky when the lights are reflecting off the clouds from the city. -[3319.46 --> 3322.46] It's a beautiful, wonderful time of year. -[3322.46 --> 3327.46] I wish our cities and our neighborhoods can be like this the rest of the time. -[3327.46 --> 3336.46] Why can't we be living this happiness, this general sense of kindness for more than just a month at a time? -[3336.46 --> 3343.46] But when writing this, I noticed not once did I mention Jesus when I described why I like Christmas. -[3343.46 --> 3350.46] But I guess that answers my question on why we can't keep this Christmas happiness all year round. -[3350.46 --> 3359.46] We can't because the happiness I described, though good and pleasant, is not rooted in the one who can give us a joy that never ends. -[3359.46 --> 3367.46] This general sense of happiness is rooted in things like lights and songs and commercials and movies and stores. -[3367.46 --> 3369.46] These things fade. -[3369.46 --> 3373.46] And we even sense that with every passing Christmas. -[3373.46 --> 3376.46] The store's decorations become less elaborate. -[3376.46 --> 3380.46] New, good, Christmas music is harder to find. -[3380.46 --> 3384.46] And everything is becoming more and more corporate and manufactured. -[3384.46 --> 3389.46] These things are temporal and they constantly shift and change. -[3389.46 --> 3393.46] They are not fit to be the root of our joy. -[3393.46 --> 3402.46] I devote myself to that vision of a nostalgic dream that I deem to be real Christmas. -[3402.46 --> 3408.46] A dream that when those lights and decorations and songs arrive, it means Christmas is finally here. -[3408.46 --> 3410.46] But that's not true. -[3410.46 --> 3415.46] I'm always left a little wanting when lights and decorations leave. -[3415.46 --> 3419.46] I always want more when Boxing Day comes around. -[3419.46 --> 3426.46] They can't satisfy me because they are fleeting. -[3426.46 --> 3428.46] They're impermanent. -[3428.46 --> 3431.46] And I need to be reminded of this every single year. -[3431.46 --> 3436.46] And this sermon has been one of the best reminders for me of this. -[3436.46 --> 3444.46] Jesus is the only source that is unshaking and unlimited, no matter the time or circumstance. -[3444.46 --> 3448.46] But that joy requires us to see who he is. -[3448.46 --> 3453.46] If we let our vision of Christmas be determined by ourselves or corporate interest in commercials, -[3453.46 --> 3459.46] then we won't be able to see this season of Advent and the awaiting of Christ properly. -[3459.46 --> 3465.46] We won't be able to see him for who he is, and we won't be able to worship him as we ought to. -[3465.46 --> 3469.46] And that's our big idea today in this third week of Advent. -[3469.46 --> 3475.46] Joy breaks in when we see Christ for who he is and give him our worship. -[3475.46 --> 3484.46] Only when we see Christ for who he is and worship him can we have a proper sense of Christmas joy. -[3484.46 --> 3490.46] And responding in worship which is the only natural outflow of a proper joy found in Christ. -[3490.46 --> 3496.46] The proper joy doesn't stop from finding these decorations and songs and lights beautiful and pleasing. -[3496.46 --> 3499.46] Joy isn't a limited source. -[3499.46 --> 3505.46] But if we desire them over him, then we will never find him joyful. -[3505.46 --> 3513.46] We will only see him as a distraction and a threat to our vision of Christmas and life. -[3513.46 --> 3520.46] Jesus wants to invade every aspect of our life and transform it. -[3520.46 --> 3522.46] He wants to shape our visions of joy. -[3522.46 --> 3528.46] He wants to reorient our source of joy to himself where it ought to be. -[3528.46 --> 3535.46] And if we hold these things above him, as I often do, then we will not have room for him. -[3535.46 --> 3539.46] But with him at the top, we can always regard these things with joy. -[3539.46 --> 3544.46] We need to make sure that Christ is our source of joy and our greatest joy. -[3544.46 --> 3548.46] And we are going to see how that is possible in the lives of the shepherds and the magi. -[3548.46 --> 3553.46] And lastly, we will see how it is not true in the case of Herod the Great. -[3553.46 --> 3555.46] First, let's talk about the shepherds. -[3555.46 --> 3562.46] The shepherds that the angels come to are tending their flocks at night and keeping thieves and wolves away. -[3562.46 --> 3565.46] These men are dirty, humble, lowly. -[3565.46 --> 3568.46] In history, these are forgettable people. -[3568.46 --> 3575.46] Their job was necessary for Israel's survival, both physical and spiritual, for both food and sacrifice. -[3575.46 --> 3581.46] And even notable characters in the Bible, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, David, were all shepherds. -[3581.46 --> 3585.46] Jesus himself calls himself the great shepherd. -[3585.46 --> 3590.46] The prophecy in Matthew that we read called him a shepherd. -[3590.46 --> 3594.46] And later in the New Testament, the church's leaders would be called shepherds. -[3594.46 --> 3598.46] The word pastor in Greek is the word poimen, which means shepherd. -[3598.46 --> 3601.46] And yet many Israelites looked down on shepherds. -[3601.46 --> 3608.46] Religious elite looked down on them because they were ritually unclean and would not partake in many of the religious activities. -[3608.46 --> 3614.46] Pastor Chris mentioned in previous years at Advent that shepherds' witness in court was not counted. -[3614.46 --> 3621.46] A Jewish midrash, a type of rabbinic literature, that also has this to say about shepherds. -[3621.46 --> 3627.46] In the whole world, you will find no occupation more despised than that of the shepherd. -[3627.46 --> 3629.46] That was what they thought. -[3629.46 --> 3635.46] But God chose shepherds to be the ones who got a visit from the choir of heaven. -[3635.46 --> 3642.46] These shepherds, despite their humble status, poor, and maybe even lonely lives, -[3642.46 --> 3648.46] they were overjoyed because they, the thing that they had been waiting for, -[3648.46 --> 3651.46] the person they had been waiting for, had finally arrived. -[3651.46 --> 3657.46] And as the angel said, the Messiah has been born to them. -[3657.46 --> 3660.46] They saw Jesus for who he was. -[3660.46 --> 3664.46] And when they did, joy broke into their hearts and lives. -[3664.46 --> 3670.46] They got to see the Savior, the Messiah, the Lord, born into the world. -[3670.46 --> 3675.46] The promises and prophecies of the Lord had come true. -[3675.46 --> 3681.46] The God who promised freedom and redemption from every power and evil had arrived. -[3681.46 --> 3685.46] And when they saw him, they were filled with joy. -[3685.46 --> 3688.46] They hurried off and spread the news of what they had seen. -[3688.46 --> 3692.46] They needed to tell people, it says. -[3692.46 --> 3698.46] The joy of seeing Christ led them to worship him and to speak about him and to praise him. -[3698.46 --> 3702.46] Remember this, they needed to tell people about him. -[3703.46 --> 3705.46] Let's jump to the Magi. -[3705.46 --> 3710.46] The Magi that came to Jesus' birth are a very mysterious group of characters. -[3710.46 --> 3715.46] We talk so much about their gifts, about how many there were that visited Jesus. -[3715.46 --> 3720.46] We sometimes call them wise men or kings, depending on the song or Bible translation. -[3720.46 --> 3725.46] And we constantly discuss when they gave their gifts to Mary or where they came from. -[3725.46 --> 3730.46] Much of this mystery is due to Magi being from a completely different context -[3730.46 --> 3733.46] than to the one we grew up here in Canada. -[3733.46 --> 3740.46] To see who these mysterious fears are, I want to guide us through some areas of the Bible that will be key to seeing that. -[3740.46 --> 3746.46] And why it is so amazing that such people like the Magi came to Jesus' birth at all. -[3746.46 --> 3750.46] And why such men would be overjoyed at the birth of the Messiah. -[3750.46 --> 3755.46] I promise you that as we go through these passages, they will tie in to the theme of Advent. -[3755.46 --> 3758.46] I'm just going to nerd out for a bit and you're all going to join me. -[3758.46 --> 3762.46] I might hold you hostage for a few minutes, but that's okay. -[3762.46 --> 3772.46] In the Old Testament, there are many places where magic and sorcery, divination, astrology, necromancy, and the like are outlawed by God. -[3772.46 --> 3774.46] Punishable by death. -[3774.46 --> 3782.46] God strictly outlaws the seeking out of power, abilities, and blessings from anything or anyone other than Him. -[3782.46 --> 3785.46] Deuteronomy 18, 10-11 says, -[3785.46 --> 3789.46] Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, -[3789.46 --> 3795.46] who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, -[3795.46 --> 3799.46] or who is a medium, a spiritist, or who consults the dead. -[3799.46 --> 3806.46] All of these practices are seeking something God gives, but through other avenues. -[3806.46 --> 3811.46] Like Adam and Eve who sought God's power by becoming like Him rather than seeking Him. -[3811.46 --> 3815.46] But the one specifically that we will focus on today is divination. -[3815.46 --> 3826.46] Divination seeks the knowledge of the future through many methods including dreams, stars, natural omens like eclipses, planetary movements, -[3826.46 --> 3830.46] hoping to understand the will of the gods who control fate and time. -[3830.46 --> 3833.46] To help people make decisions. -[3833.46 --> 3835.46] To help people navigate the future. -[3835.46 --> 3837.46] To help people get what they want. -[3837.46 --> 3845.46] You don't have to read very far in the Bible to find places where God's people use such practices against His will. -[3845.46 --> 3852.46] And God responds as He promised He would if His people failed to destroy such people and practices amongst them. -[3852.46 --> 3854.46] He would do it Himself. -[3854.46 --> 3855.46] In Isaiah 2-6, -[3855.46 --> 3859.46] You, Lord, have abandoned your people, the descendants of Jacob. -[3859.46 --> 3862.46] They are full of superstitions from the East. -[3862.46 --> 3866.46] They practice divination like the Philistines and embrace pagan customs. -[3866.46 --> 3869.46] And in Isaiah 47, 12-15, -[3869.46 --> 3875.46] Keep on then with your magic spells and with your many sorceries, which you have labored at since childhood. -[3875.46 --> 3878.46] Perhaps you will succeed or perhaps you will cause terror. -[3878.46 --> 3883.46] All the counsel you have received has only worn you out. -[3883.46 --> 3888.46] Let your astrologers come forward, those stargazers who make predictions month by month. -[3888.46 --> 3890.46] Let them save you from what is coming upon you. -[3890.46 --> 3894.46] Surely they are like stubble. The fire will burn them up. -[3894.46 --> 3900.46] Surely they cannot even save themselves from the power of the flame. -[3900.46 --> 3903.46] These are not coals for warmth. -[3903.46 --> 3906.46] This is not a fire to sit by. -[3906.46 --> 3908.46] This is all they are to you. -[3908.46 --> 3912.46] These you have dealt with and labored with since childhood. -[3912.46 --> 3914.46] All of them go on in their error. -[3914.46 --> 3917.46] There is not one that can save you. -[3917.46 --> 3921.46] God is not just outlying it because he doesn't think it is beneficial. -[3921.46 --> 3931.46] He disdains the practice because it promises that it can be a source of meaning and an answer and a giver of joy without God. -[3931.46 --> 3936.46] And the Israelites are going to do things that God already promised them. -[3936.46 --> 3939.46] They are trying to get things that God already promised them. -[3939.46 --> 3946.46] But now they are caught in their sin and they are crying out to astrology and divination to escape the judgment of God. -[3946.46 --> 3948.46] Something that could never do that in the first place. -[3948.46 --> 3954.46] God is reminding them that things like astrology and divination and magic have no power over him. -[3954.46 --> 3957.46] It has power over nothing. -[3957.46 --> 3959.46] He is the Lord. -[3959.46 --> 3961.46] He will decide the future. -[3961.46 --> 3964.46] They want their dream of the world to come true. -[3964.46 --> 3966.46] They don't want his dream to come true. -[3966.46 --> 3969.46] They want to find joy in a world that they can shape. -[3969.46 --> 3971.46] That they can master. -[3971.46 --> 3973.46] That they can control. -[3973.46 --> 3980.46] They are devoting their whole being to finding joy in their dreams rather than devoting themselves to God. -[3980.46 --> 3987.46] And yet God also chose such people to show that he is Lord over those practices. -[3987.46 --> 3992.46] In the story of Balaam and his talking donkey found in Numbers 20-25, -[3992.46 --> 3997.46] Balaam is a seer or a pagan prophet for hire. -[3997.46 --> 4003.46] He is hired by the king of Moab named Balak to curse Israel with prophetic power. -[4003.46 --> 4012.46] He wants to cast omens, use witchcraft, sorcery, power to prevent Israel from walking over them as they make their way to the promised land. -[4012.46 --> 4017.46] But in the story, Balaam is confronted by God before he gets to Moab. -[4017.46 --> 4021.46] And God tells him to only prophesy what he tells him to. -[4021.46 --> 4022.46] Remember this. -[4022.46 --> 4025.46] We are going to come back to those prophecies. -[4025.46 --> 4032.46] We are now going to jump a thousand years from the story of Balaam to the story of the Exodus. -[4032.46 --> 4033.46] From... -[4033.46 --> 4035.46] I am starting over. -[4035.46 --> 4036.46] I am starting over. -[4036.46 --> 4046.46] We are now going to jump a thousand years from the story of Balaam and the Exodus in 1500 BC to the story of Daniel in 562 BC. -[4046.46 --> 4047.46] Okay. -[4047.46 --> 4049.46] I said it right that time. -[4049.46 --> 4055.46] Daniel the prophet, as a young boy, is taken by the army of Nebuchadnezzar. -[4055.46 --> 4059.46] When Babylon takes over the kingdom of Judah, they slaughter most of the people. -[4059.46 --> 4070.46] But it was also common for them to take slaves as well to take young, fit, intelligent, trainable men who could then become members of their court. -[4070.46 --> 4073.46] Daniel and his three friends are such people who are taken. -[4073.46 --> 4083.46] And it's Daniel who becomes a prophet of God who is trained in the pagan arts in Nebuchadnezzar's court by his magi and sorcerers. -[4083.46 --> 4086.46] And we read this in Daniel 1, 17-20. -[4086.46 --> 4092.46] To these four young men, God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. -[4092.46 --> 4096.46] And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds. -[4096.46 --> 4104.46] At the end of the time, set by the king to bring him into his service, the chief official presented them to Nebuchadnezzar. -[4104.46 --> 4111.46] The king talked with them and he found none equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, or Azariah. -[4111.46 --> 4114.46] So they entered the king's service. -[4114.46 --> 4118.46] In every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king questioned them, -[4118.46 --> 4123.46] he found them ten times better than all of the magicians and enchanters in his whole kingdom. -[4123.46 --> 4129.46] You probably know Hananiah and Mishael and Azariah as Meshach, Shadrach, and Abednego. -[4129.46 --> 4132.46] That is their Babylonian names when they're taken over. -[4132.46 --> 4138.46] When we read the whole book of Daniel, we find he is constantly confronting these magicians and enchanters. -[4138.46 --> 4140.46] He is thrown into a pit of lions by them. -[4140.46 --> 4143.46] He even rules over them later. -[4143.46 --> 4147.46] But the point remains is that Daniel lives amongst these magi. -[4147.46 --> 4148.46] They are his people. -[4148.46 --> 4149.46] He knows their arts. -[4149.46 --> 4152.46] He may have even practiced them. -[4152.46 --> 4156.46] But like Balaam did so under God's command. -[4156.46 --> 4164.46] Magi in Babylon were used to understand dreams and celestial star signs to see if kings would die or be born. -[4164.46 --> 4167.46] And Daniel did this many times. -[4167.46 --> 4170.46] He was called to see the writing on the wall more than once. -[4170.46 --> 4174.46] Daniel was a Magi. -[4174.46 --> 4176.46] Except he wasn't pagan. -[4176.46 --> 4178.46] His guide was the Lord. -[4178.46 --> 4183.46] And he sought answers from none other than him. -[4183.46 --> 4187.46] Nothing else was his source of visions and dreams. -[4187.46 --> 4191.46] The spirit was why he could interpret those dreams. -[4191.46 --> 4195.46] And angels were the ones who would give him his visions. -[4195.46 --> 4198.46] Believe it or not, this is where we get back to Jesus. -[4198.46 --> 4203.46] The Magi that visit Jesus, like I mentioned, are a mysterious group. -[4203.46 --> 4208.46] And reading this story, it looks like they come out of nowhere. -[4208.46 --> 4210.46] Why are the Magi here? -[4210.46 --> 4215.46] Well, Magi at the time were very common across the Middle East and the Roman Empire. -[4215.46 --> 4222.46] The Magi of Jesus' time were astrologers who would mark astrological signs in the sky like shooting stars. -[4222.46 --> 4226.46] And they would track the movements of planets to determine future events. -[4226.46 --> 4231.46] If you're thinking right now this sounds like horoscope readers in the Coffee News or on TikTok, -[4231.46 --> 4233.46] that's exactly the same thing. -[4233.46 --> 4239.46] That practice that we have today in Coffee News comes from these guys. -[4239.46 --> 4242.46] This is the original. -[4242.46 --> 4246.46] Kings would have them in their courts. -[4246.46 --> 4251.46] They would hire them to see if new kings would be born or if current kings would die. -[4251.46 --> 4252.46] Some examples. -[4252.46 --> 4261.46] Nero, the dreaded Roman Emperor, during his reign heard that a star sign was seen and that a ruler would die. -[4261.46 --> 4266.46] And so to make sure that it wasn't him, he killed a bunch of nobles hoping that that would satisfy the sign. -[4266.46 --> 4278.46] Or, when other kings were born or chosen, the astrologers would try and find star signs that matched their birth to legitimize their ascendancy to the throne. -[4278.46 --> 4281.46] And the best Magi always came from the East. -[4281.46 --> 4283.46] Everyone at that time knew it. -[4283.46 --> 4285.46] Everyone wanted astronomers from the East in their courts. -[4285.46 --> 4289.46] And by the East at that time, that means the areas of Babylon and Persia. -[4289.46 --> 4298.46] That all being said, these guys are just the latest version of those same pagan diviners and magicians that God outlawed in Deuteronomy. -[4298.46 --> 4300.46] These men are like Balaam. -[4300.46 --> 4305.46] They could be hired out by kings and these Magi are stated to have come from the East, -[4305.46 --> 4310.46] meaning that these are the premium Magi that everyone knows and wants. -[4310.46 --> 4322.46] The Magi that came to Jesus' worship, that came to Jesus to worship him, are the same Magi that God outlawed punishable by death. -[4322.46 --> 4331.46] The same Magi that Daniel served with and over and probably even from the very same court and school. -[4331.46 --> 4337.46] In fact, that's probably how they came to know about Jesus' prophecies at all. -[4337.46 --> 4341.46] That's probably how they came to know that that star was about Jesus. -[4341.46 --> 4350.46] These Magi probably have in their libraries copy of scripture left by Daniel and all the prophecies of the coming Messiah that were left at the exile. -[4350.46 --> 4356.46] But what prophecy would these astrologers be following that involves stars about the Messiah? -[4356.46 --> 4363.46] Now I can't be certain, but there are many hints and clues that lead me to think that if those prophecies about Balaam, -[4363.46 --> 4369.46] written all the way back before Israel was even a kingdom in Israel, had led them to Jesus, written by Balaam. -[4369.46 --> 4377.46] Balaam, a fellow pagan diviner like them, commanded by God, prophesied this in Numbers 24, 17-19. -[4377.46 --> 4389.46] I see him, but not now. I behold him, but not near. A star will come out of Jacob. A scepter will rise out of Israel. -[4389.46 --> 4393.46] He will crush the foreheads of Moab and the skulls of all the people of Shef. -[4393.46 --> 4396.46] Edom will be conquered. Remember that line. -[4396.46 --> 4404.46] Seir, his enemy, will be conquered. But Israel will grow strong. A ruler will come out of Jacob and destroy the survivors of the city. -[4404.46 --> 4413.46] In this one prophecy from God, spoken by a pagan prophet for hire, we find a prophecy of a future ruler of Israel, -[4413.46 --> 4418.46] who will conquer the kingdom of Edom, and it mentions that a star will rise out of Jacob. -[4418.46 --> 4424.46] This prophecy is exactly the sort of thing that these magi would be looking for. -[4424.46 --> 4430.46] And along with all the other prophecies of Isaiah and Daniel about a coming Messiah to be born in Bethlehem, -[4430.46 --> 4434.46] these magi have everything they need to find Jesus. -[4434.46 --> 4444.46] The magi that come to Jesus, pagan astrologers, the very people God outlawed for seeking knowledge and power and control in any other path than God, -[4444.46 --> 4451.46] these magi are the magicians that got Daniel thrown into the lion's den that served him when he was in Babylon. -[4451.46 --> 4454.46] These magi are not God's people. -[4454.46 --> 4456.46] They are not Jewish. -[4456.46 --> 4459.46] They are the best of the best pagan sinners. -[4459.46 --> 4465.46] And yet it's those Gentile pagans who when they see the star rise out of Israel, -[4465.46 --> 4468.46] they see what Israel and their king don't. -[4468.46 --> 4472.46] They see that the Messiah has been born in Bethlehem. -[4472.46 --> 4474.46] The king is not Herod. -[4474.46 --> 4476.46] The king is not a Roman emperor. -[4476.46 --> 4479.46] The king is a baby born in Bethlehem. -[4479.46 --> 4488.46] And these pagans, these outlawed criminal pagans, want to worship the God that disdains their practices. -[4488.46 --> 4492.46] They are overjoyed when they see him. -[4492.46 --> 4495.46] The stars literally aligned. -[4495.46 --> 4499.46] God guided them across deserts. -[4499.46 --> 4504.46] Their pagan astrology matched up with biblical prophecy. -[4504.46 --> 4513.46] And again, not a single priest, not a single scribe, not a Pharisee, not a Sadducee or rabbi to be seen. -[4513.46 --> 4518.46] None of the people who had the books, the scriptures or the words handed down from God. -[4518.46 --> 4523.46] None of them saw Jesus for who he was and came to worship him. -[4523.46 --> 4529.46] Just some dispossessed shepherds who needed to tell people about what they saw. -[4529.46 --> 4534.46] And the pagan magi from another empire needed to give him gifts and worship him. -[4534.46 --> 4537.46] But none of the people that should have been there. -[4537.46 --> 4539.46] None of the priests. -[4539.46 --> 4541.46] None of the people. -[4541.46 --> 4548.46] Instead, the people at the hearing of the Messiah has been born are disturbed. -[4548.46 --> 4550.46] They are shocked. -[4550.46 --> 4553.46] They don't immediately rush to find the Messiah that they've been waiting for. -[4553.46 --> 4554.46] No. -[4554.46 --> 4558.46] All of Jerusalem is disturbed with its king. -[4558.46 --> 4561.46] And that king is our next character, Herod. -[4561.46 --> 4564.46] All of Jerusalem doesn't rush to find the promised king. -[4564.46 --> 4571.46] They sit in their disturbance and they go to Herod, the puppet king, placed by the Roman conquerors. -[4571.46 --> 4577.46] And as a result of this disturbing news, the king, Herod, seeks out the magi to speak to them secretly. -[4577.46 --> 4584.46] He seeks them and asks them to find the child and report to him so that he may worship them too. -[4584.46 --> 4590.46] But when they find Jesus, they receive a dream that warns them not to tell Herod, so they go home another route. -[4590.46 --> 4603.46] Initially, they may have believed Herod, but after that dream they received, they knew that this Herod was seeking their expertise as magi for the same paranoid and tyrannical reason that Nero had his nobles murdered. -[4603.46 --> 4606.46] Herod had no intention of worshiping this child. -[4606.46 --> 4615.46] And as we learn by reading the story, Herod sends men to the city and kills every child under the age of two to stop this Messiah from becoming king. -[4615.46 --> 4621.46] Herod was not overjoyed at the birth of Jesus, the way the shepherd or the magi were. -[4621.46 --> 4622.46] No. -[4622.46 --> 4626.46] Herod's power was going to suddenly come to an end. -[4626.46 --> 4628.46] The real king had arrived. -[4628.46 --> 4632.46] Herod knew he was a puppet, placed by the Roman government. -[4632.46 --> 4640.46] He knew his power relied on brutalistic murder of relatives and playing political games to get religious elite in his pocket. -[4640.46 --> 4645.46] Never mind the fact that he wasn't even an Israelite. -[4645.46 --> 4647.46] No, Herod was an Edomite. -[4647.46 --> 4649.46] He's from Edom. -[4649.46 --> 4653.46] Herod was a descendant of Esau, not Jacob. -[4653.46 --> 4662.46] And as we read in Numbers 24, when that star rises out of Israel, the king would conquer Edom. -[4662.46 --> 4665.46] Herod knows the story of Esau and Jacob. -[4665.46 --> 4669.46] And Jacob's trick to take the blessing from Esau's grasp. -[4669.46 --> 4674.46] This new king would not take his kingdom from his grasp. -[4674.46 --> 4675.46] No. -[4675.46 --> 4679.46] Finally, Herod, Esau's descendant, was king. -[4679.46 --> 4685.46] He was king of God's people, God's land, and God's promise that was his, not Jacob's. -[4685.46 --> 4690.46] No one, no Israelite was going to take that power that was rightfully his. -[4690.46 --> 4694.46] No one would take that from him, especially if that promised king was dead. -[4694.46 --> 4700.46] Joy is not the word I would use to describe Herod's reaction at the news of the birth of Jesus. -[4700.46 --> 4701.46] No. -[4701.46 --> 4707.46] Herod was afraid, angry, anything but joyful. -[4707.46 --> 4711.46] Something had interrupted his finely crafted world. -[4711.46 --> 4716.46] Something was interrupting and threatening his vision of his life. -[4716.46 --> 4718.46] Jesus entered into Herod's life. -[4718.46 --> 4721.46] Jesus was interrupting Herod's self-made kingdom. -[4721.46 --> 4725.46] Herod sought joy in power and making himself king. -[4725.46 --> 4728.46] He couldn't let Jesus be king. -[4728.46 --> 4730.46] And this is the difference. -[4730.46 --> 4735.46] Where the Magi and the shepherds see that the king of Israel was a baby born in Bethlehem, -[4735.46 --> 4737.46] Herod only sees a threat. -[4737.46 --> 4739.46] Another problem he needs to solve. -[4739.46 --> 4743.46] A hurdle preventing his vision of a perfect life coming true. -[4744.46 --> 4746.46] They see him for who he is. -[4746.46 --> 4752.46] And they are overjoyed at the prospect and rushed to travel long distances to find him and worship him. -[4752.46 --> 4758.46] The shepherds left their sheep and traveled in the night to find Jesus at the witness of the choir of heaven. -[4758.46 --> 4769.46] The Magi left their homes and traveled far distances, probably taking weeks if not months to bring wealth and gifts to a baby and worship him. -[4769.46 --> 4779.46] Herod sent an army to slaughter, not just the boy, but every boy in the town to keep what he had. -[4779.46 --> 4792.46] The joy of Advent is not found in our perfect snowy Christmas morning with Christmas trees and presents and family dinners, though that is beautiful, and good, and should be enjoyed. -[4792.46 --> 4799.84] dream. The joy of Advent is not found in our perfect snowy Christmas morning with Christmas -[4799.84 --> 4805.88] trees and presents and family dinners, though that is beautiful and good and should be enjoyed. -[4806.42 --> 4813.10] The joy of Advent is seeing that our Savior, our Messiah, the Lord, was born in Bethlehem, -[4813.66 --> 4820.38] worshipped by the humble and lowly shepherds and the pagan and mysterious magi. He grew up, -[4820.38 --> 4824.86] he lived the perfect life that we should have lived, died the death we should have died. He -[4824.86 --> 4830.24] rose on the third day. He ascended with the promise of his return that we faithfully await. -[4831.12 --> 4838.94] Our joy of Advent is knowing that our faithful Savior, our Messiah, our Lord, lived and died for -[4838.94 --> 4850.04] us so that we can live with him. Joy breaks in when we see Christ for who he is and give him our worship. -[4851.38 --> 4857.22] We can't let the voices of culture and advertisement be the last word on what Christmas ought to be like. -[4857.72 --> 4864.00] We also can't let our dreams and visions of the future shape what Christmas ought to be like. -[4864.38 --> 4871.76] We need to let Christ be the one that shapes this Advent. We need to let Christ be the one -[4871.76 --> 4878.08] that shapes our vision of joy. And here's some ways we can do that. There's three ways. One, -[4878.08 --> 4884.40] we need to tell the world about the joy we have in Jesus. Because of the joy the shepherds received -[4884.40 --> 4891.72] from seeing Christ, they needed to tell people. Let's let the joy of this Christmas cause us to need -[4891.72 --> 4900.66] to tell people about Jesus. We all know those people who we want to share Christ to. We just might feel -[4900.66 --> 4906.00] uncomfortable in doing it or we're worried about how that relationship will be affected by that -[4906.00 --> 4916.64] conversation. We need to let the joy of Christmas help us fuel that desire to tell them. Second, we need to -[4916.64 --> 4922.42] worship the Lord and give everything like the Magi. Like the Magi who were overjoyed at seeing Christ -[4922.42 --> 4928.28] and were compelled to worship Jesus and bring gifts. The joy of Advent needs to be our source -[4928.28 --> 4934.12] of worship to him. The joy of Advent needs to be the source of worship to Christ. -[4934.12 --> 4942.48] Let that joy that only comes from Christ push us to more. To forgive that person who hurt us. Make -[4942.48 --> 4947.66] meals for those in need. Spending time with those who find themselves lonely this season. Inviting them -[4947.66 --> 4956.06] to dinner and maybe even Christmas morning. Showing love to an enemy. Lastly, let's give our visions -[4956.06 --> 4963.96] and dreams of what Christmas ought to be to Christ. Unlike Herod, who held close to his vision of what -[4963.96 --> 4969.14] his life and joy needed to be, we need to give all our assumptions and sources of joy this season to -[4969.14 --> 4975.44] him and place them under Jesus. We need to submit everything under him. I need to submit my material -[4975.44 --> 4982.92] vision of joy that I got from corporate Christmas under Christ. If there are songs or food or traditions -[4982.92 --> 4988.84] that are your image of what Christmas is or my image of what Christmas is, they need to be placed under -[4988.84 --> 4995.64] Christ and his vision. If there are things we do at Christmas that get in our way or if there's people -[4995.64 --> 5004.48] that their presence ruins our sense of Christmas, we need to let Christ's presence change that. We need -[5004.48 --> 5009.74] to let Christ's presence fill us with joy so that we can love them and be around them the same way he was -[5009.74 --> 5019.40] around us. Let's see Jesus for who he is and worship him and have that joy this Christmas. Let's pray. -[5021.32 --> 5027.72] Dear Lord, thank you for this wonderful day. All the rain and all the weather. Thank you for this time -[5027.72 --> 5033.30] of year where we get to reflect on the waiting of your coming again. I pray, Lord, that as we -[5033.30 --> 5039.52] as we go from this place, Lord, we would be fueled by the joy of you breaking into our lives, -[5040.34 --> 5045.82] that we would have feel the need to tell people about you, that we would feel the need to worship -[5045.82 --> 5051.32] you wherever we are with everything we are, and that we would submit every vision and dream of what -[5051.32 --> 5056.50] Christmas or life ought to be like under your vision. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen. -[5063.30 --> 5071.46] The joy of meeting Christ in worship, the joy of being met by Christ in the word, -[5071.80 --> 5078.98] is the joy that we now continue to encounter here at the table. As we come to the table of our Lord, -[5079.04 --> 5084.40] we're going to move through some liturgy together. You'll see on the screen behind me places for you to -[5084.40 --> 5091.94] speak and participate. As we come to this moment together, let's come to God in prayer. -[5093.30 --> 5104.52] You, God, are holy. You are a God of majesty, and blessed is Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord. -[5105.12 --> 5111.24] You sent him into this world to satisfy the longings of your people for a Savior, -[5111.46 --> 5117.54] to bring freedom to the captives of sin, and to establish justice for the oppressed. -[5117.54 --> 5127.16] He came among us as one of us, taking the lot of the poor and sharing in human suffering. -[5128.52 --> 5137.16] We rejoice that in your death, Lord Jesus, and in your rising again, you set before us the sure promise -[5137.16 --> 5145.00] of new life, the certain hope of a heavenly home where we will sit at table with Christ, -[5145.00 --> 5150.86] our host, our host forever. In his name we pray. Amen. -[5154.26 --> 5159.92] As the word became flesh, born of a woman on that night long ago, -[5160.36 --> 5166.56] so on the night in which he gave himself up for us, he took bread. -[5166.56 --> 5173.88] He gave thanks to God, he broke the bread, and he gave it to his disciples, and he said, -[5174.12 --> 5182.86] take, eat, this is my body which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me. -[5184.24 --> 5191.44] And when the supper was over, he took the cup, and he gave thanks to God, he gave it to his disciples, -[5191.44 --> 5200.40] and again, he said, drink from this, all of you. This is my blood of the new covenant poured out -[5200.40 --> 5208.38] for many for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as often as you drink it in remembrance of me. -[5208.38 --> 5219.52] And so, in living remembrance of Jesus, in living remembrance of these mighty acts of Jesus, -[5219.84 --> 5228.02] we offer ourselves in praise and thanksgiving as a holy and living sacrifice. In union with Christ's -[5228.02 --> 5237.68] offering for us, we proclaim the mystery of our faith. Your death, O Christ, we proclaim. -[5237.68 --> 5247.10] Your resurrection, we affirm with joy. Your coming, we await with hope. Glory be to you, Lord Jesus. -[5248.64 --> 5256.12] Church family, in this Advent season, we come to the Lord's table, prepared for all who love him and -[5256.12 --> 5265.30] trust in him alone for salvation. And so come to this table, you who wait in hope and you who long for -[5265.30 --> 5272.76] more. Come to this table, you who have been here often and you who have been away. You who follow -[5272.76 --> 5283.96] faithfully and those of us who stumble and fall. Come, for Christ has come and Christ will come again. -[5284.62 --> 5292.08] Whether you are here in person or joining us from home, come. It is Christ himself who invites us to -[5292.08 --> 5298.94] meet him at this table. These are the gifts of God for the people of God. -[5299.94 --> 5305.46] As we come forward to this table, we will do so in groups. We will have some ushers indicating -[5305.46 --> 5312.26] how you or when you may come forward. We will gather in a circle around this table and we will pass -[5312.26 --> 5317.02] the elements to our left or to our right. As you pass the bread, we invite you to say, -[5317.02 --> 5323.52] the body of Christ given for you. As you pass the juice, we invite you to say, the blood of Christ -[5323.52 --> 5330.32] shed for you. And then we will receive that. We will all eat together in our groups here and then -[5330.32 --> 5338.20] the next group will come forward. On each tray of bread are some gluten-free bread pieces. Please -[5338.20 --> 5343.88] take that if you need. And if you are unable to come to the front, please indicate that to the -[5343.88 --> 5351.02] usher elder and they will meet you at your seat and serve you there with individual service as well. -[5351.66 --> 5356.66] Throughout our coming to the table, we will have the worship team up front. They'll lead us in singing -[5356.66 --> 5361.56] and there will be some people in the foyer if you would like to meet them for prayer. They'd love to -[5361.56 --> 5367.58] meet you and pray with you during that time. I want to invite the worship team up and the back of -[5367.58 --> 5373.52] house and the elders who will serve to the first table and that way they can help us and -[5373.52 --> 5376.16] facilitate our service for the remaining tables. -[5403.52 --> 5404.52] Thank you. -[5404.52 --> 5405.52] Thank you. -[5433.52 --> 5434.02] Thank you. -[5434.18 --> 5434.52] Thank you. -[5434.52 --> 5434.76] Thank you. -[5463.52 --> 5493.50] Thank you. -[5493.52 --> 5523.50] Thank you. -[5523.52 --> 5553.50] Thank you. -[5553.52 --> 5583.50] Thank you. -[5583.52 --> 5585.52] Thank you. -[5613.52 --> 5615.52] Thank you. -[5643.52 --> 5645.52] Thank you. -[5673.52 --> 5675.52] Thank you. -[5675.52 --> 5677.52] Thank you. -[5677.52 --> 5679.52] Thank you. -[5679.52 --> 5683.52] Alleluia. -[5683.52 --> 5689.70] All I have is Christ. -[5690.52 --> 5693.52] Alleluia. -[5693.52 --> 5700.52] Jesus is my life. -[5700.52 --> 5724.52] Now, Lord, I would be yours alone and live so all might see. The strength to follow your commands could never come from me. -[5724.52 --> 5734.52] Oh, Father, use my ransom life in any way you choose. -[5734.52 --> 5746.52] And let my song forever be my only boast in truth. -[5746.52 --> 5748.52] Alleluia. -[5748.52 --> 5750.52] Alleluia. -[5750.52 --> 5756.52] All I have is Christ. -[5756.52 --> 5758.52] All I have is Christ. -[5758.52 --> 5760.52] Alleluia. -[5760.52 --> 5762.52] All I have is Christ. -[5762.52 --> 5764.52] Alleluia. -[5764.52 --> 5766.52] Alleluia. -[5766.52 --> 5768.52] Alleluia. -[5768.52 --> 5773.52] Alleluia. -[5773.52 --> 5775.52] Alleluia. -[5775.52 --> 5782.00] All I have is Christ -[5782.00 --> 5787.68] Alleluia -[5787.68 --> 5794.08] Jesus is my life -[5805.52 --> 5814.80] Father everlasting -[5814.80 --> 5819.76] The Uncreating One -[5819.76 --> 5823.22] God Almighty -[5823.22 --> 5829.78] Through your Holy Spirit -[5829.78 --> 5834.64] Conceiving Christ our Son -[5834.64 --> 5837.86] Jesus our Savior -[5837.86 --> 5844.14] I believe in God our Father -[5844.14 --> 5847.94] I believe in Christ the Son -[5847.94 --> 5851.48] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[5851.48 --> 5855.34] Our God is three in one -[5855.34 --> 5858.46] I believe in the resurrection -[5858.46 --> 5862.40] That we will rise again -[5862.40 --> 5869.62] For I believe in the name of Jesus -[5869.62 --> 5887.06] Our judge and our defender -[5887.06 --> 5890.68] Suffered and crucified -[5890.68 --> 5895.90] For forgiveness is in you -[5895.90 --> 5901.94] Descended into darkness -[5901.94 --> 5905.90] You rose in glorious light -[5905.90 --> 5909.90] Forever seeing I -[5909.90 --> 5915.12] I believe in God our Father -[5915.12 --> 5919.12] I believe in Christ the Son -[5919.12 --> 5923.00] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[5923.00 --> 5926.62] Our God is three in one -[5926.62 --> 5929.12] I believe in the resurrection -[5929.12 --> 5932.34] That we will rise again -[5932.34 --> 5940.12] For I believe in the name of Jesus -[5940.12 --> 5945.38] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[5945.38 --> 5949.02] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[5949.02 --> 5950.02] You rise in woman -[5950.02 --> 5953.38] I believe in the 태 Marvel -[5953.38 --> 5957.46] I believe in the Lord -[5957.46 --> 5966.18] I believe that Jesus Christ is Lord. -[5969.18 --> 5976.14] I believe in you. -[5977.76 --> 5982.88] I believe you whole again. -[5982.88 --> 5994.18] I believe that Jesus Christ is Lord. -[5999.06 --> 6003.56] I believe in life eternal. -[6004.38 --> 6006.88] I believe in the virgin birth. -[6006.88 --> 6014.86] I believe in the saints communion and in your holy church. -[6015.00 --> 6021.64] I believe in the resurrection when Jesus comes again. -[6022.12 --> 6027.92] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[6027.92 --> 6031.96] I believe in God our Father. -[6032.58 --> 6034.92] I believe in Christ the Son. -[6036.12 --> 6038.98] I believe in the Holy Spirit. -[6039.68 --> 6042.68] Our God is three in one. -[6043.08 --> 6045.74] I believe in the resurrection. -[6046.56 --> 6048.92] That we will rise again. -[6048.92 --> 6055.82] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[6056.66 --> 6063.56] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[6063.56 --> 6093.54] For I believe in the name of Jesus. -[6093.54 --> 6123.52] I believe in the name of Jesus. -[6123.52 --> 6125.52] I believe in the name of Jesus. -[6125.52 --> 6127.60] I believe in the name of Jesus. -[6127.60 --> 6129.64] I believe in the name of Jesus. -[6129.64 --> 6135.44] I believe in the presence of Jesus the Nazarene. -[6135.44 --> 6142.44] And wonder how we could call thee. -[6142.44 --> 6147.44] A circled and unclean. -[6147.44 --> 6149.82] We're singing. -[6149.82 --> 6152.74] How marvelous. -[6153.68 --> 6155.44] How wonderful. -[6157.44 --> 6162.44] And my song shall ever be. -[6162.44 --> 6164.44] How marvelous. -[6164.44 --> 6165.44] How marvelous. -[6165.44 --> 6169.44] How wonderful. -[6169.44 --> 6176.44] Is my Savior's love for me. -[6176.44 --> 6176.88] He took my sins and my sorrow. -[6176.88 --> 6193.44] He made them his very own. -[6193.44 --> 6207.56] And He bore the blood into Calvary, and suffered and died no more. -[6207.56 --> 6221.74] We're singing, how marvelous, how wonderful, and my song shall ever be. -[6221.74 --> 6235.74] How marvelous, how wonderful, and my Savior's home for me. -[6235.74 --> 6257.74] And with the ransomed in glory, His face I at last shall see. -[6257.74 --> 6271.74] It will be my joy through the ages, to sing of His love for me. -[6271.74 --> 6285.74] We're singing, how marvelous, how wonderful, and my song shall ever be. -[6285.74 --> 6299.74] How marvelous, how wonderful, and my Savior's home for me. -[6299.74 --> 6314.74] We're singing, how marvelous, how wonderful, and my song shall ever be. -[6314.74 --> 6329.74] How marvelous, how wonderful, and my Savior's love for me. -[6329.74 --> 6344.74] How marvelous, how marvelous, and my Savior's home for me. -[6344.74 --> 6360.74] How marvelous, how marvelous, and my Savior's home for me. -[6360.74 --> 6364.74] How marvelous, how marvelous, and my Savior's home for me. -[6364.74 --> 6366.74] How marvelous, how marvelous, and my Savior's home for me. -[6366.74 --> 6396.72] How marvelous, how marvelous, and my Savior's home for me. -[6396.74 --> 6403.94] How marvelous, how marvelous, how marvelous, and my Savior's home for me. -[6403.94 --> 6406.90] How marvelous, how marvelous, and my Savior's home for me. -[6406.90 --> 6408.02] And my Savior's home for me. -[6408.80 --> 6412.96] How marvelous, how marvelous, and my Savior's home for me. -[6413.68 --> 6426.12] How marvelous, how marvelous, how marvelous, and my Savior's home for me. -[6426.12 --> 6453.08] And so they washed and died, despised, rejected, but all the money shed, no glory. -[6453.08 --> 6468.08] A praise to God, O unsanified, the Son of God, here for me. -[6468.08 --> 6481.08] My daddy raised and my daddy dies, that I, I live. -[6481.08 --> 6488.08] That I, I live. -[6488.08 --> 6489.08] Amen. -[6489.08 --> 6507.08] And now this love of Christ shall flow like rivers. -[6507.08 --> 6520.08] Come wash your guilt away, live again. -[6520.08 --> 6533.08] A praise to God, O unsanified, the Son of God, here for me. -[6533.08 --> 6548.08] My daddy raised and my daddy dies, that I, I live. -[6548.08 --> 6554.08] That I, I live. -[6554.08 --> 6569.08] Amen. -[6569.08 --> 6570.08] Amen. -[6570.08 --> 6571.08] Amen. -[6571.08 --> 6572.08] Amen. -[6572.08 --> 6573.08] Amen. -[6573.08 --> 6574.08] Amen. -[6574.08 --> 6575.08] Amen. -[6575.08 --> 6593.82] From the scholar of a borrowed stable -[6593.82 --> 6600.34] By the spirit and a virgin's faith -[6600.34 --> 6605.78] To the anguish and the shade of scandal -[6605.78 --> 6612.16] Came the Savior of the human race -[6612.16 --> 6618.98] But the skies were filled with the praise of Lamb -[6618.98 --> 6624.10] Shepherds listened as the angels tell -[6624.10 --> 6630.10] Of the gift of God come down to man -[6630.64 --> 6635.58] At the dawning of Emmanuel -[6635.58 --> 6647.54] King of heaven, now the friend of sinners -[6647.54 --> 6653.36] Humble servant in the Father's land -[6653.36 --> 6659.48] Filled with power and the Holy Spirit -[6659.48 --> 6665.54] Filled with mercy for the broken man -[6666.08 --> 6672.54] Yes, He walked my road and He felt my faith -[6672.54 --> 6678.76] Joys and sorrows that I know so -[6678.76 --> 6685.94] Yet His righteousness give me hope again -[6685.94 --> 6691.20] I will follow my Emmanuel -[6691.20 --> 6702.94] Through the kisses of a friend's betrayal -[6702.94 --> 6709.84] He was lifted on a cruel cross -[6709.84 --> 6716.26] He was punished for a world's transgressions -[6716.26 --> 6722.54] He was suffering to save the lost -[6722.54 --> 6726.20] He fights for breath -[6726.20 --> 6730.06] He fights for me -[6730.06 --> 6735.70] Losing sinners from the claims of God -[6735.70 --> 6742.08] And with a shout our souls are free -[6742.08 --> 6747.62] Death defeated by Emmanuel -[6747.62 --> 6759.82] Now be standing in the face of honor -[6759.82 --> 6765.94] Ground with glory on the highest throne -[6765.94 --> 6766.94] In the face of God -[6766.94 --> 6767.94] In the face of God -[6767.94 --> 6771.68] Interceding for His own beloved -[6771.68 --> 6777.94] Till His Father calls to bring Him over -[6777.94 --> 6782.14] Then the skies will part -[6782.14 --> 6785.84] As the trumpet sounds -[6785.84 --> 6791.22] Hope of heaven or the fear of hell -[6791.22 --> 6794.22] But the pride will run -[6794.22 --> 6798.22] To the Lord's heart -[6798.22 --> 6799.22] But the pride will run -[6799.22 --> 6802.22] But the pride will run -[6802.22 --> 6803.22] To the Father's heart -[6803.22 --> 6804.22] But the pride will run -[6804.22 --> 6805.22] To the Father's heart -[6805.22 --> 6807.22] And the skies will run -[6807.22 --> 6808.22] And the skies will run -[6808.22 --> 6811.22] As the trumpet sounds -[6811.22 --> 6816.22] Hope of heaven or the fear of hell -[6816.22 --> 6817.22] But the pride will run -[6817.22 --> 6820.22] But the pride will run -[6820.22 --> 6821.22] To the Lord's heart -[6821.22 --> 6822.22] But the pride will run -[6822.22 --> 6823.22] To the Lord's heart -[6823.22 --> 6829.22] Giving glory to Emmanuel -[6829.22 --> 6844.22] As we go out in the joy of Christ -[6844.22 --> 6846.22] Go with this blessing -[6846.22 --> 6850.22] The Lord bless you and keep you -[6850.22 --> 6852.22] The Lord make His face shine on you -[6852.22 --> 6854.22] And be gracious to you -[6854.22 --> 6856.22] The Lord turn His face towards you -[6856.22 --> 6857.22] And give you peace -[6857.22 --> 6858.22] Amen -[6874.22 --> 6876.22] Come all you weary -[6876.22 --> 6878.22] Come all you thirsty -[6878.22 --> 6880.22] Come all you thirsty -[6880.22 --> 6882.22] Come all you thirsty -[6882.22 --> 6884.22] Come to the well -[6884.22 --> 6886.22] That never has drowned -[6886.22 --> 6889.22] Drink of the water -[6889.22 --> 6891.22] Come and thirst no more -[6891.22 --> 6894.22] Come all you sinners -[6894.22 --> 6896.22] Come all you sinners -[6896.22 --> 6897.22] Come find His mercy -[6897.22 --> 6899.22] Come to the table -[6899.22 --> 6901.22] He will satisfy -[6901.22 --> 6902.22] Taste of His goodness -[6902.22 --> 6907.22] Find what you're looking for -[6907.22 --> 6921.22] is -[6921.22 --> 6935.22] is -[6943.70 --> 6949.22] jesus is -[6951.22 --> 6959.22] oh -[6959.22 --> 6963.22] is -[6969.22 --> 6979.22] is -[6981.22 --> 6986.72] God so loved, God so loved the world. -[6989.30 --> 6997.62] Praise God, praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[6998.28 --> 7007.62] Praise Him, praise Him, for the wonders of His love. -[7007.62 --> 7017.88] Praise God, praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[7019.08 --> 7028.12] Praise Him, praise Him, for the wonders of His love. -[7028.12 --> 7036.18] Praise God, praise Him, for God so loved the world that He gave us. -[7036.18 --> 7040.84] His one and only Son to save us. -[7040.84 --> 7045.84] For God so loved the world that He gave us. -[7045.84 --> 7050.58] His one and only Son to save us. -[7050.58 --> 7056.12] Whoever may be, will live forever. -[7059.80 --> 7064.52] The power of God, forever defeated. -[7064.52 --> 7069.48] Now in His realm, I'm walking in freedom. -[7069.70 --> 7075.58] For God so loved, God so loved the world. -[7075.58 --> 7083.68] Bring all your failures, bring your addictions. -[7084.22 --> 7088.56] Come lay them down at the foot of the cross. -[7088.56 --> 7096.02] Jesus is waiting, God so loved the world. -[7096.02 --> 7101.20] Maybe God mounts me, by the Lord. -[7101.20 --> 7102.84] Jesus is waiting. -[7102.84 --> 7103.40] Let us pray. -[7103.40 --> 7104.66] Give me the Word to the Lord. -[7104.66 --> 7106.88] We achieve 21 and be strong. -[7106.88 --> 7107.26] Amen. -[7107.46 --> 7107.58] Amen. -[7107.58 --> 7108.82] Amen. -[7108.82 --> 7108.96] Amen. -[7108.96 --> 7109.20] Amen. -[7109.20 --> 7109.64] Amen. -[7109.64 --> 7109.80] Amen. -[7109.80 --> 7110.02] Amen. -[7110.02 --> 7111.80] Amen. -[7111.80 --> 7112.60] Amen. -[7112.60 --> 7113.52] Amen. -[7113.52 --> 7114.20] Amen. -[7114.20 --> 7115.86] Amen. -[7115.86 --> 7118.00] Amen. -[7118.00 --> 7119.24] Amen. -[7119.24 --> 7119.76] Amen. -[7121.62 --> 7121.80] Amen. -[7121.80 --> 7122.30] Amen. -[7122.70 --> 7123.28] Amen. -[7123.28 --> 7125.54] Amen. -[7125.54 --> 7155.52] Thank you. -[7155.54 --> 7185.52] Thank you. -[7185.54 --> 7215.52] Thank you. -[7215.54 --> 7245.52] Thank you. -[7245.54 --> 7247.54] Thank you. -[7275.54 --> 7305.52] Thank you. -[7305.54 --> 7307.54] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 21, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 21, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ef1c742eb5bffd181d7f8fc2e192bb322ad8f2c5..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 21, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,55 +0,0 @@ -• Light of the candle of love -• Christ's birth and significance -• Worship hymns and musical segments (e.g. "As God Has Greeted Us This Morning", "Evermore") -• Christmas carols ("O Come, O Come, Emmanuel", "Rejoice, Rejoice, Emmanuel Shall Come To Thee") -• Prayer of confession led by the speaker -• Prayers and petitions for comfort, peace, and salvation -• A reading or recitation of a passage about God's love and faithfulness -• Introductions and thanks to the congregation and donors -• A financial update on the church budget and appeal for support -• Scripture reading from 2 Corinthians chapter 8 -• A musical performance with lyrics about the depth of God's love -• Reflections and testaments to the power of Jesus Christ's sacrifice -• Invitation for kids to join the host up front -• Scenario where a teacher tells students they don't have to do work and get candy instead -• Discussion of good news and messengers from God (angels) -• Proclamation and celebrating with joyful noise -• Demonstration of proclaiming good news with music and movement -• Blessing and activity following the blessing -• The speaker thanks God for various things, including the gift of Jesus Christ, salvation, church, word, spirit, hope, peace, joy, and love. -• A woman named Linda is prayed for after being diagnosed with bone cancer, along with her husband Neil. -• Lane Benny, who is battling cancer, is also prayed for and asked to be surrounded with strength, comfort, and healing. -• John Kuypers is prayed for as he faces health challenges and awaits a surgery date. -• Pastor Kevin is thanked for his willingness to share his gifts and talents, and he is asked for God's blessing on him and his message. -• The speaker discusses the concept of "cutesy Christmas" and how it provides brief moments of comfort and relief from real-life problems. -• Biblical Christmas is presented as a contrast to cutesy Christmas, being disruptive, dangerous, cosmic, and offering love and peace that lasts beyond the holiday season. -• The focus for the morning's message will be on the characters of Christmas, specifically angels. -• The speaker argues that Christmas is not just a sentimental or cutesy holiday, but rather a cosmic invasion of heaven into earth. -• The passage from Revelation 12 is used to illustrate the true nature of Christmas, which involves warfare and the reclaiming of lost territory by God. -• The angels in the Christmas story are seen as evidence of this bigger story, and their presence announces a colossal event where heaven and earth are at stake. -• Gabriel's declaration to Mary in Luke 1:26-38 is also used to show that God is already actively moving and working to establish His kingdom on earth. -• The speaker notes that many people tend to tame Christmas into something comfortable and cutesy, but the true story of Christmas is much more complex and profound. -• The blindness to God's plan in moments of difficulty, as seen in Mary's story -• The shepherds' encounter with angels and the declaration of Jesus' birth -• Revelation 12: a vision of God's redemption plan, showing Satan's defeat by Jesus' victory -• Christmas as a moment when heaven declares the outcome of salvation, not just a beginning of a battle -• The danger but ultimately doomed position of the devil (Satan) in this story -• A narrow view of love and the transactional nature of relationships, leading to disappointment when expectations are not met -• The speaker discusses the difference between "narrow love" and "biblical love", with the former being selfish and focused on personal feelings, while the latter is expansive, selfless, and sacrificial. -• Christmas is seen as a time to celebrate God's decisive victory over sin and death, rather than just a sentimental or cutesy holiday. -• The speaker talks about how God's love conquers all, including struggles with mental health, and that Jesus' love for us never wanes even when we feel like He is not present. -• The importance of remembering that Jesus has experienced struggle and temptation himself, and that He understands our pain and suffering. -• Paul's description in 2 Corinthians 4:16-17 of the seasons of struggle we face as Christians. -• The Bible teaches that God's love conquers troubles and hardship -• Christmas is a celebration of this cosmic, eternal, and forever love -• Jesus' arrival as a baby is a declaration of victory over sin and death -• Christians are called to live out selfless love for others and enter the battle against evil with courage shaped by love and humility -• God's victory is achieved through self-giving, sacrificial love, not power or force -• The tools used by the world (e.g. polarization, division) do not bring lasting peace -• Christians must fight with a different mindset, using truth spoken in gentleness and love willing to suffer for others -• A hymn to the deep love of Jesus is sung -• Invitation to stay for refreshments and prayer after service -• Final week before Christmas, receiving God's parting blessing -• Scripture reading from Ecclesiastes 2:19-22 (about the fleeting nature of life) -• Praise and worship songs to Christ as King -• Repeated expressions of praise to Christ \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 21, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 21, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2caeea2d1654cb0685d1f88ce145a04d034d798b..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 21, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,726 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 182.00] Thank you. -[182.00 --> 186.00] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 212.00] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 242.00] Thank you. -[242.00 --> 244.00] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 272.00] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 302.00] Thank you. -[302.00 --> 304.00] Thank you. -[304.00 --> 306.00] Thank you. -[306.00 --> 308.00] Thank you. -[308.00 --> 310.00] Thank you. -[310.00 --> 312.00] Thank you. -[312.00 --> 314.00] Thank you. -[314.00 --> 316.00] Thank you. -[316.00 --> 318.00] Thank you. -[318.00 --> 320.00] Thank you. -[320.00 --> 322.00] Thank you. -[322.00 --> 324.00] Thank you. -[324.00 --> 326.00] Thank you. -[326.00 --> 328.00] Thank you. -[328.00 --> 330.00] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 332.00] Thank you. -[332.00 --> 334.00] Thank you. -[334.00 --> 336.00] Thank you. -[336.00 --> 338.00] Thank you. -[338.00 --> 340.00] Thank you. -[340.00 --> 342.00] Thank you. -[342.00 --> 344.00] Thank you. -[344.00 --> 346.00] As God has -[346.00 --> 348.00] As God has greeted us this morning. -[348.00 --> 349.00] As God has greeted us this morning, please take a moment to greet those around you as well. -[349.00 --> 351.00] Thank you. -[379.00 --> 381.00] Thank you. -[381.00 --> 383.00] Thank you. -[383.00 --> 385.00] Thank you. -[385.00 --> 387.00] Thank you. -[387.00 --> 415.92] Today we light the candle of love -[415.92 --> 420.92] Like the angels we see God's love revealed in the coming of Christ -[420.92 --> 433.26] As this candle burns we remember -[433.26 --> 435.30] Christ is love made visible -[445.92 --> 459.92] Of the Father's love begotten -[459.92 --> 464.84] Where the worlds began to be -[464.84 --> 468.80] He is the found Omega -[468.80 --> 473.80] He the source the ending he -[473.80 --> 480.80] Of the things that are that have been -[480.80 --> 484.80] And that future years shall see -[484.80 --> 490.80] Evermore and evermore -[490.80 --> 496.18] Oh that birth forever blessed -[496.18 --> 502.22] When a virgin blessed with grace -[502.22 --> 506.58] By the Holy Ghost conceiving -[506.58 --> 511.80] Bore the Savior of the race -[511.80 --> 517.80] And obeyed the world's Redeemer -[517.80 --> 523.26] First revealed his sacred face -[523.26 --> 528.80] Evermore and evermore -[528.80 --> 537.92] This is he whom sees in old times -[537.92 --> 542.74] Chanted of with one accord -[542.74 --> 547.04] Whom the voices of the prophets -[547.04 --> 552.90] Promised in their faithful word -[552.90 --> 558.40] Now he shines the long expected -[558.40 --> 563.76] Let creation praise its Lord -[563.76 --> 568.90] Evermore and evermore -[568.90 --> 575.78] Let the heights of heaven adore him -[575.78 --> 580.78] Angel hosts his praises sing -[580.78 --> 586.02] Thou will minions bow before him -[586.02 --> 590.98] And extol our God and King -[590.98 --> 596.46] Let no tongue on earth be silent -[596.46 --> 601.50] Every voice in concert ring -[601.50 --> 606.50] Evermore and evermore -[606.50 --> 612.70] Christ to you with God the Father -[612.70 --> 618.40] And the Spirit there shall be -[618.40 --> 622.50] Him enchanted high thanksgiving -[622.50 --> 627.50] And the shout of jubilee -[627.50 --> 633.50] Honor, glory, and dominion -[633.50 --> 637.50] And eternal victory -[637.50 --> 642.50] Evermore and evermore -[642.50 --> 657.50] O come, O come, O come, Emmanuel -[657.50 --> 678.02] O come, O come, Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel. -[678.02 --> 693.02] That mourns in lowly exile near, until the Son of God appear. -[695.02 --> 705.30] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel shall come to thee. -[705.30 --> 726.30] O Israel, O come, thou branch of Jesse's dead, unto thine all, and rescue them. -[726.30 --> 740.30] From depths of hell your people save, and give them victory o'er the grave. -[740.30 --> 756.24] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel. -[756.24 --> 773.24] O come, O bright and morning star, and bring us comfort from afar. -[773.24 --> 788.24] Dispel the shadows of the night, and turn our darkness into light. -[788.24 --> 803.64] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel. -[803.64 --> 821.02] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel. -[825.02 --> 827.70] Join me in a prayer of confession. -[827.70 --> 839.28] Lord Jesus Christ, we confess that we are willing to be loved, yet slow to love and return. -[840.04 --> 845.32] We gladly receive your forgiveness, yet we struggle to forgive others. -[846.74 --> 849.64] We reach out for your redeeming love. -[850.52 --> 854.08] You hesitate, yet hesitate to follow you fully. -[854.08 --> 861.64] In this season of Advent, forgive us for the ways we fail to respond to your grace. -[862.50 --> 867.32] Come to us again, and by your mercy, teach us to receive you. -[868.04 --> 870.88] With joy, like the shepherds and magi. -[871.56 --> 873.86] In peace, like Mary and Joseph. -[874.90 --> 878.08] Full of hope, like Elizabeth and Zachariah. -[878.36 --> 882.06] And with love, as you have first loved us. -[882.06 --> 885.50] Even so, come, Lord Jesus. -[886.18 --> 886.50] Amen. -[886.50 --> 886.62] Amen. -[886.62 --> 892.44] Come, Lord Jesus. -[892.44 --> 904.58] Come and comfort now my people -[904.58 --> 909.96] Speak of peace, all says our God -[909.96 --> 914.80] Comfort those who sit in darkness -[914.80 --> 919.90] Throaring under sorrows, Lord -[919.90 --> 923.68] Cry out to Jerusalem -[923.68 --> 929.04] Of the peace that waits for them -[929.04 --> 933.52] Tell her that her sins I cover -[933.52 --> 938.20] And her warfare now is over -[938.20 --> 944.64] For the herald's voice is crying -[944.64 --> 949.76] In the desert far and near -[949.76 --> 953.54] Calling all to true repentance -[953.54 --> 959.22] Since the kingdom now is here -[959.22 --> 963.54] Hold that warning cry, obey -[963.54 --> 967.54] Now prepare for God away -[967.54 --> 972.48] Let the valleys rise to meet Him -[972.48 --> 977.62] And the hills bow down to greet Him -[977.62 --> 983.40] Then make straight what long was crooked -[983.40 --> 988.24] Make the rougher places plain -[988.24 --> 992.62] Let your hearts be true and humble -[992.62 --> 997.50] As befits His holy name -[997.50 --> 1001.08] For the glory of the Lord -[1001.08 --> 1005.54] Now on earth is shed abroad -[1005.54 --> 1010.30] And all flesh shall see the token -[1010.30 --> 1014.60] That God's word is never broken -[1014.60 --> 1035.58] Good morning everyone -[1035.58 --> 1039.36] My name is Allison and I'm one of the deacons -[1039.36 --> 1040.72] Here at the church -[1040.72 --> 1045.04] We are really grateful for the incredible support -[1045.04 --> 1048.76] From all of you for the ministry and mission -[1048.76 --> 1050.18] Of Langley Emmanuel -[1050.18 --> 1053.40] Your faithful giving throughout the year -[1053.40 --> 1055.56] Has supported ongoing ministries -[1055.56 --> 1059.56] New initiatives, missions and outreach -[1059.56 --> 1061.08] And faith formation -[1061.08 --> 1064.26] For everyone from newborns to seniors -[1064.26 --> 1065.80] In our church community -[1065.80 --> 1069.94] We are currently 12% behind our budget -[1069.94 --> 1070.94] For 2025 -[1070.94 --> 1074.68] That's roughly $75,000 -[1074.68 --> 1077.08] Needed by the end of the year -[1077.08 --> 1078.36] To meet our goals -[1078.36 --> 1080.50] What you give today -[1080.50 --> 1082.68] And over the next week and a half -[1082.68 --> 1085.24] Will help us finish the year well -[1085.24 --> 1088.58] We see God's faithfulness -[1088.58 --> 1090.40] Expressed through you all -[1090.40 --> 1092.56] Thank you in advance -[1092.56 --> 1093.86] For your generosity -[1093.86 --> 1096.60] And for supporting the ongoing ministry -[1096.60 --> 1099.02] And mission of our church family -[1099.02 --> 1101.30] As always -[1101.30 --> 1103.60] You can give the envelopes -[1103.60 --> 1106.04] You can give through the envelopes -[1106.04 --> 1106.74] In the seats -[1106.74 --> 1108.74] By e-transfer -[1108.74 --> 1110.04] Or online -[1110.04 --> 1111.24] Today -[1111.24 --> 1114.82] Any undesignated giving -[1114.82 --> 1116.42] Will also go to the budget -[1116.42 --> 1119.94] May what the Apostle Paul -[1119.94 --> 1121.60] Says of the Corinthian church -[1121.60 --> 1123.52] Be true of us here in our church -[1123.52 --> 1127.02] Since you excel in everything -[1127.02 --> 1128.24] In faith -[1128.24 --> 1129.46] In speech -[1129.46 --> 1130.70] In knowledge -[1130.70 --> 1133.58] In complete earnestness -[1133.58 --> 1136.42] And in the love we have kindled in you -[1136.42 --> 1138.82] See that you also excel -[1138.82 --> 1140.98] In this grace of giving -[1140.98 --> 1144.08] From 2 Corinthians chapter 8 -[1144.08 --> 1170.76] How deep the Father's love for us -[1170.76 --> 1175.72] How vast beyond all measure -[1175.72 --> 1181.76] That he should give his only Son -[1181.76 --> 1187.64] To make a wretch his treasure -[1187.64 --> 1194.52] How great the pain of searing loss -[1194.52 --> 1200.52] The Father turns his face away -[1200.52 --> 1205.52] As wounds which bar the Chosen One -[1205.52 --> 1211.40] Bring many sons to glory -[1211.40 --> 1227.48] Behold the man upon a cross -[1227.48 --> 1232.36] My sin upon his shoulders -[1232.36 --> 1238.40] Ashamed I hear my walking voice -[1238.40 --> 1244.40] Call out among the scoffers -[1244.40 --> 1250.66] It was my sin that held him there -[1250.66 --> 1255.72] Until it was accomplished -[1255.72 --> 1262.56] His dying breath has brought me life -[1262.56 --> 1267.56] I know that it is finished -[1267.56 --> 1283.56] I will not boast in anything -[1283.56 --> 1285.56] No gifts -[1285.56 --> 1286.24] No gifts -[1286.24 --> 1286.56] No power -[1286.56 --> 1288.56] No wisdom -[1288.56 --> 1289.56] No gifts -[1289.56 --> 1290.56] No power -[1290.56 --> 1291.56] No wisdom -[1291.56 --> 1295.56] But I will boast in Jesus Christ -[1295.56 --> 1300.56] His death and resurrection -[1300.56 --> 1307.56] Why should I gain from his reward -[1307.56 --> 1312.56] I cannot give an answer -[1312.56 --> 1319.56] But this I know with all my heart -[1319.56 --> 1324.56] His wounds have paid my ransom -[1324.56 --> 1325.56] No wisdom -[1325.56 --> 1326.56] No wisdom -[1326.56 --> 1331.56] Why should I gain from his reward -[1331.56 --> 1332.56] No wisdom -[1332.56 --> 1334.56] Why should I gain from his reward -[1334.56 --> 1335.56] I cannot give an answer -[1335.56 --> 1336.56] Why should I gain from his reward -[1336.56 --> 1337.56] I cannot give an answer -[1337.56 --> 1342.56] But this I know with all my heart -[1342.56 --> 1354.56] His wounds have paid my ransom -[1354.56 --> 1362.56] Good morning -[1362.56 --> 1365.56] I'd like to invite all the kids to come forward for Kids Corner -[1365.56 --> 1368.56] If you are age 3 all the way up to grade 4 -[1368.56 --> 1371.56] You are invited to join us up here -[1371.56 --> 1373.56] And then out in our classrooms -[1373.56 --> 1377.56] As we learn more about the story of Christmas together -[1377.56 --> 1379.56] Alright -[1387.56 --> 1391.56] Okay to start I want you guys to imagine something for me -[1391.56 --> 1394.56] This will be a little bit easier if you are someone who goes to school -[1394.56 --> 1397.56] Like if you are in kindergarten or up -[1397.56 --> 1400.56] So I want you to imagine that you hear the bell ring -[1400.56 --> 1402.56] And so you run in from outside -[1402.56 --> 1403.56] You are playing at recess -[1403.56 --> 1405.56] And you run back to the door where you have to line up -[1405.56 --> 1407.56] Your first one there -[1407.56 --> 1409.56] And your teacher opens the door and says -[1409.56 --> 1410.56] Guess what? -[1410.56 --> 1413.56] We are not going to do any work this afternoon -[1413.56 --> 1415.56] We are going to eat candy -[1415.56 --> 1416.56] And we are going to play games -[1416.56 --> 1419.56] And we are not going to do our spelling test or our math -[1419.56 --> 1420.56] What would you do? -[1420.56 --> 1422.56] You got a few choices -[1422.56 --> 1424.56] Choice A -[1424.56 --> 1425.56] Would you cry? -[1425.56 --> 1427.56] Choice B -[1427.56 --> 1430.56] Would you just line up like normal? -[1430.56 --> 1431.56] Or -[1431.56 --> 1432.56] Choice C -[1432.56 --> 1435.56] Would you go run back to the playground -[1435.56 --> 1436.56] And tell the rest of your class -[1436.56 --> 1439.56] That you don't have to do any work that afternoon? -[1439.56 --> 1440.56] What would you do? -[1440.56 --> 1441.56] Who would do A? -[1441.56 --> 1442.56] Who would cry? -[1442.56 --> 1443.56] They are so sad -[1443.56 --> 1444.56] Candy -[1444.56 --> 1447.56] What about choice B? -[1447.56 --> 1448.56] Would you just line up? -[1448.56 --> 1449.56] How about choice C? -[1449.56 --> 1451.56] Who would go and run and tell everybody else? -[1451.56 --> 1457.56] I think that most of you would go run and tell everybody -[1457.56 --> 1459.56] Hey guess what? -[1459.56 --> 1461.56] We don't have to do any work today -[1461.56 --> 1462.56] We are going to get candy -[1462.56 --> 1463.56] We are going to play games -[1463.56 --> 1465.56] Because it is good news -[1465.56 --> 1466.56] Right? -[1466.56 --> 1468.56] So today we are going to learn about -[1468.56 --> 1469.56] Some messengers of God -[1469.56 --> 1472.56] The angels who came and got to tell the shepherds -[1472.56 --> 1475.56] The good news that baby Jesus was born -[1475.56 --> 1477.56] And they didn't do it quietly -[1477.56 --> 1478.56] They did it loudly -[1478.56 --> 1480.56] They sang and they proclaimed -[1480.56 --> 1484.56] The good news that heaven had come down to earth -[1484.56 --> 1486.56] Now when I think about when we proclaim -[1486.56 --> 1488.56] Or we are excited to share something -[1488.56 --> 1489.56] Especially when we are kids -[1489.56 --> 1490.56] I think it is kind of loud -[1490.56 --> 1491.56] Right? -[1491.56 --> 1493.56] If you are excited to share something -[1493.56 --> 1496.56] You might be clapping or cheering or shouting -[1496.56 --> 1499.56] So today we are going to do a little -[1499.56 --> 1500.56] Something a little differently -[1500.56 --> 1502.56] We are going to start with the blessing -[1502.56 --> 1506.56] And then before you sprint off -[1506.56 --> 1508.56] Don't do that -[1508.56 --> 1509.56] Come and see me first -[1509.56 --> 1512.56] Because today we are going to leave -[1512.56 --> 1515.56] Giving a demonstration of proclaiming -[1515.56 --> 1517.56] And celebrating with a joyful noise -[1519.56 --> 1522.56] What the good news of God is -[1522.56 --> 1524.56] So we are going to stand up and do the blessing -[1524.56 --> 1526.56] After the blessing don't run away -[1526.56 --> 1528.56] Come up and see either me or Isla -[1528.56 --> 1529.56] She is going to come up -[1529.56 --> 1530.56] And I think you will know what to do -[1530.56 --> 1531.56] With what we are going to give you -[1531.56 --> 1534.56] But if you don't just try and make noise with it -[1534.56 --> 1535.56] And that will work -[1555.56 --> 1556.56] 轉 and love -[1556.56 --> 1557.88] To thecam Titan -[1565.56 --> 1569.16] One is a massive -[1570.56 --> 1572.56] That's good -[1576.56 --> 1578.12] One is a huge -[1578.12 --> 1578.56] That we understand -[1578.56 --> 1582.68] It's our biggest -[1582.68 --> 1612.66] Thank you. -[1612.68 --> 1642.66] Thank you. -[1642.68 --> 1644.68] Thank you. -[1644.68 --> 1646.68] Thank you. -[1646.68 --> 1648.68] Thank you. -[1648.68 --> 1652.82] We'll be undergoing further testing in the weeks ahead and we'll be praying for Linda -[1652.82 --> 1654.78] and Neil who are dealing with this difficult news. -[1655.30 --> 1657.38] So let's bow our heads. -[1657.38 --> 1659.38] Thank you. -[1659.38 --> 1661.38] Thank you. -[1661.38 --> 1663.38] Thank you. -[1663.38 --> 1665.38] Thank you. -[1665.38 --> 1667.38] Thank you. -[1667.38 --> 1669.38] Thank you. -[1669.38 --> 1671.38] Thank you. -[1671.38 --> 1673.38] Thank you. -[1673.38 --> 1675.38] Thank you. -[1675.38 --> 1677.38] Thank you. -[1677.38 --> 1679.38] Thank you. -[1679.38 --> 1681.38] Thank you. -[1681.38 --> 1683.38] Thank you. -[1683.38 --> 1685.38] Thank you. -[1685.38 --> 1687.38] Thank you. -[1687.38 --> 1689.38] Thank you. -[1689.38 --> 1691.38] Thank you. -[1691.38 --> 1693.38] Thank you. -[1693.38 --> 1695.38] Thank you. -[1695.38 --> 1697.38] Thank you. -[1697.38 --> 1699.38] Thank you. -[1699.38 --> 1701.38] Thank you. -[1701.38 --> 1703.38] Thank you. -[1703.38 --> 1705.38] Thank you. -[1705.38 --> 1707.38] Thank you. -[1707.38 --> 1708.38] Thank you. -[1708.38 --> 1710.38] And we are a life to see you just five years through our Lord. -[1710.38 --> 1712.56] We thank you for the gift of your son Jesus Christ. -[1712.56 --> 1718.80] for your promise fulfilled and the salvation you bring to our world we thank you for your church -[1718.80 --> 1725.68] for your word and for the work of your spirit among us thank you for hope peace joy and love -[1725.68 --> 1734.88] as we celebrate this event season loving father prepare our hearts to receive christ again help us -[1734.88 --> 1742.24] to live lives shaped by your love to be near to those who are hurting lonely or afraid give strength -[1742.24 --> 1748.16] to those who are sick and comfort for all who grieve make us a people who reflect your love to -[1748.16 --> 1754.16] our neighbors and our world as we await with hope for the coming of our savior jesus christ -[1755.84 --> 1762.72] we continue to bring our specific concerns and joy before you we thank you for the gift of new life -[1762.72 --> 1767.52] and rejoice with frank and sylvia welfing on the birth of their granddaughter hazel josephine -[1767.52 --> 1778.24] we lift up linda rook after recently being diagnosed with bone cancer surround her and her husband neil -[1778.24 --> 1785.44] with peace strength and comfort guide the doctors and nurses that care for her and grant her healing -[1786.32 --> 1792.48] be close to neil and linda and neil and family through this time and remind them that they are never -[1792.48 --> 1802.00] alone we pray for lane benny as he also battles cancer surround him with strength comfort and healing -[1802.72 --> 1808.88] be near to his parents leo and debbie giving them peace and courage as they support their son -[1810.08 --> 1816.48] and we lift up john kuypers as he continues to faith face health challenges and waits a surgery date -[1816.48 --> 1825.36] grant him peace and patience patience and healing be with pastor kevin as he leads us this morning we -[1825.36 --> 1830.88] thank you for kevin and his willingness to share his gifts and talents with us here at emmanuel and we ask -[1830.88 --> 1841.44] you bless him and his message this morning we pray this all in the name of jesus christ your son our lord and savior amen -[1846.48 --> 1868.96] good morning everyone when you think of the christmas season or when you think of what most people think -[1868.96 --> 1876.96] of in the christmas season what comes to mind i think for many of us it's what i'm going to call -[1877.76 --> 1885.36] cutesy christmas we think of hallmark movies about a small town girl returning home and running into a -[1886.00 --> 1893.36] former high school acquaintance where time has been very kind to his face and his biceps we think about -[1893.36 --> 1901.36] angel christmas tree toppers with perfect curly locks and fluffy white wings we think of of twinkling -[1901.36 --> 1907.84] lights on a house that dance to the music of carol of the bells for some reason we think of garland and -[1907.84 --> 1914.24] wreaths and color coordinated christmas trees that are set up to to shift the mood in our house -[1914.24 --> 1924.32] from regular chaotic to just like comfortable cozy we think of warm sweaters that are often hideous -[1924.32 --> 1930.00] unless you've got one like mine which is beautiful and you snuggle into them because they also provide -[1930.00 --> 1936.16] a coziness as you sit on your couch when it's raining outside you think of piping hot chocolate and soft -[1936.16 --> 1941.68] sugar cookies which are totally fine to consume in large quantities during this season because -[1941.68 --> 1946.16] an old woman in a grinch sweater once told me that the calories don't count right now because it's -[1946.16 --> 1953.84] dark outside and new year's is still two years away or two weeks away and honestly i think for most of us -[1954.88 --> 1962.24] we love that and it's okay to love that because these little moments found in christmas this cutesy -[1962.24 --> 1969.36] christmas brings little moments of relief little flashes of comfort -[1969.36 --> 1977.52] we love stories where people are kind and problems are solvable and and happiness is guaranteed after -[1977.52 --> 1984.32] 90 minutes right before the final scene in the credits roll and it's okay to find comfort and rest -[1984.32 --> 1991.76] in this rainy season in a warm beverage and and and a comfortable sweater and re-watching die hard or or -[1991.76 --> 1998.00] we met in december for the 19th time which we met in december is one of the 24 new hallmark movies that -[1998.00 --> 2005.68] came out this year which raises the total to over 400 hallmark christmas movies -[2007.12 --> 2008.08] that's not a joke -[2010.16 --> 2014.08] that's crazy but it speaks to something doesn't it -[2016.16 --> 2018.88] it speaks to cozy cutesy christmas -[2018.88 --> 2029.04] and it's okay to like cutesy christmas but let's be very honest cutesy christmas -[2029.76 --> 2038.24] only lets us escape for a moment because in real life most of our problems don't get resolved in an -[2038.24 --> 2045.04] hour and a half or certainly with just a cup of hot chocolate or lounging around in our edmonton oilers -[2045.04 --> 2048.08] christmas sweaters christmas sweaters -[2048.08 --> 2054.16] we live in a very polarized world full of suffering full of uncertainty full of exhaustion -[2056.08 --> 2063.12] our hearts are restless and and cutesy christmas gives us a brief place to rest and to breathe but it's brief -[2064.32 --> 2065.76] because january lurks -[2065.76 --> 2071.68] the thing is biblical christmas is the opposite of cutesy -[2072.88 --> 2075.12] biblical christmas is disruptive -[2076.16 --> 2077.20] it's dangerous -[2078.00 --> 2079.12] it's cosmic -[2080.40 --> 2086.96] and the love and the peace that biblical christmas christmas offers is not momentary it doesn't disappear -[2086.96 --> 2088.32] when the decorations come down -[2089.28 --> 2090.88] so today we're going to look -[2090.88 --> 2096.24] uh we're going to continue sorry looking at the characters of christmas we're going to focus on the angels -[2096.24 --> 2102.40] this morning and we're going to specifically look at a passage that portrays christmas as anything but cutesy -[2103.28 --> 2109.12] because the love of god isn't small it isn't sentimental it isn't temporary -[2109.12 --> 2116.40] it's a love that breaks into the world at christmas and changes everything and so if you've got your bibles with -[2116.40 --> 2122.16] you please open it up right to the end we're going to skip all the way ahead to revelation 12 -[2122.72 --> 2128.40] and we're going to read revelation 12 verses 1 to 12. all right if you've got your bibles with you or your -[2128.40 --> 2132.56] bible apps i encourage you keep those open because we are going to be jumping around from revelation -[2132.56 --> 2135.36] to luke's christmas story and elsewhere as well -[2136.24 --> 2137.76] but for now revelation 12 -[2138.48 --> 2140.56] verses 1 to 12 there we read this -[2140.56 --> 2149.52] a great sign appeared in heaven a woman clothed with the sun with the moon under her feet and a crown -[2149.52 --> 2155.60] of 12 stars on her head she was pregnant and cried out in pain as she was about to give birth -[2156.80 --> 2164.08] then another sign appeared in heaven an enormous red dragon with seven heads and ten horns and seven -[2164.08 --> 2170.48] crowns on its head its tail swept a third of the stars out of the sky and flung them to earth -[2172.08 --> 2177.92] the dragon stood in front of the woman who was about to give birth so that it might devour the child -[2177.92 --> 2185.76] the moment he was born she gave birth to a son a male child who will rule all the nations with an iron -[2185.76 --> 2192.32] scepter and her child was snatched up to god and to his throne the woman fled into the wilderness to a -[2192.32 --> 2198.80] place prepared for her by god where she might be taken to taken care of for 1260 days -[2200.24 --> 2207.28] then war broke out in heaven michael and his angels fought against the dragon and the dragon and his -[2207.28 --> 2213.44] angels fought back but he was not strong enough and they lost their place in heaven the great dragon was -[2213.44 --> 2221.92] hurled down that ancient serpent called the devil or satan who leads the whole world astray he was -[2221.92 --> 2230.64] hurled to the earth and his angels with him then i heard a loud voice in heaven say now have come the -[2230.64 --> 2236.72] salvation and the power and the kingdom of our god and the authority of his messiah for the accuser of -[2236.72 --> 2245.04] our brothers and sisters who accuses them before our god day and night has been hurled down they triumphed -[2245.04 --> 2250.96] over him by the blood of the lamb and by the word of their testimony they did not love their lives so -[2250.96 --> 2258.80] much as to shrink from death therefore rejoice you heavens and you who dwell in them but woe to the earth -[2258.80 --> 2266.08] and the sea because the devil has gone down to you he is filled with fury because he knows that his time is -[2266.08 --> 2269.20] is short the word of the lord -[2272.32 --> 2280.48] now i know that that's a weird christmas passage but that is the picture of what christmas is about -[2282.16 --> 2288.32] what we just read does not necessarily reflect one moment in time mind you it's not simply the christmas -[2288.32 --> 2296.96] story but it's a snapshot of god's entire redemption plan all of human history portrayed here in -[2297.60 --> 2304.08] apocalyptic literature now they say a picture is worth a thousand words which makes me think then that -[2304.08 --> 2309.20] the gift that you send your friends is worth like a million words because it's moving but that means -[2309.20 --> 2315.20] that this passage here in revelation has got to be worth a billion and we don't have time for all of -[2315.20 --> 2322.00] those words today but we are going to break this text down in a little bit however i can say with -[2322.00 --> 2329.92] certainty that i have yet to see a hallmark christmas movie about a dragon fighting angels in the stars -[2329.92 --> 2342.40] whilst trying to consume a baby this passage is anything but cutesy but christmas isn't cutesy christmas is a -[2342.40 --> 2350.64] cosmic invasion see christmas isn't just sentimental joy to the world silent night peace on earth that's -[2350.64 --> 2357.76] for sure part of it but we cannot limit what happened on christmas to simply the gentle and lowly -[2359.20 --> 2368.48] our text shows us that christmas is about wartime love about heaven coming down to earth to reclaim what was -[2368.48 --> 2376.56] lost and we know that christmas is not god entering a peaceful world we know in our heart of hearts this is -[2376.56 --> 2386.08] true because the world we live in is not peaceful no christmas is about god invading enemy territory -[2387.28 --> 2396.08] and the angels in the christmas story are a picture of that they remind us of that the angels are evidence of -[2396.08 --> 2406.08] this bigger story which we so often fail to see when we tame christmas into something cutesy the angels -[2406.08 --> 2414.32] break into this story to show us how cosmic it truly is the angels refuse to let christmas stay comfortable -[2414.32 --> 2420.80] because whenever they appear they announce a colossal story where heaven and earth are at stake -[2420.80 --> 2430.96] if you've got your bibles flip with me to luke 1 26 to 38 in this story we've got gabriel an angel of god -[2430.96 --> 2438.64] who appears to mary all right and gabriel says to mary this he says greetings you who are highly favored -[2438.64 --> 2445.84] the lord is with you do not be afraid mary you have found favor with god you will conceive and give birth -[2445.84 --> 2454.56] to a son and you are to call him jesus now hear this he will be great and will be called the son of the -[2454.56 --> 2461.92] most high the lord god will give him the throne of his father david and he will reign over jacob's -[2461.92 --> 2470.80] descendants forever his kingdom will never end he will be son of the most high he will get the throne of -[2470.80 --> 2482.64] david he will reign forever his kingdom will never end cosmic christmas this is a kingdom altering -[2482.64 --> 2491.68] declaration see gabriel's presence here in the story reminds us that god is already active here even -[2491.68 --> 2500.00] before mary says yes gabriel's not asking permission no he is telling mary what's going to happen -[2501.36 --> 2503.20] god is already active and moving -[2505.36 --> 2508.16] but do we remember mary's response her initial response -[2509.68 --> 2516.32] she says how will this be because i am a virgin now in fairness that is a fair question to ask -[2516.32 --> 2521.52] and i don't want to ridicule mary here she's speaking to gabriel this magnificent angel who's -[2521.52 --> 2527.76] just popped into her house who's telling her a whole bunch of wild stuff many of us would have responded -[2527.76 --> 2532.40] similarly and i think i'm being very charitable here because i suspect there would be a lot more -[2532.40 --> 2540.16] screaming and a lot more cowering in this room but it's worth noticing that mary's confusion here -[2540.88 --> 2548.80] mirrors our own blindness that we often have to god's big story in that moment -[2548.80 --> 2556.40] mary sees inconvenience she sees risk and confusion and no logical way forward -[2556.40 --> 2563.36] heaven though through gabriel is proclaiming that the redemption plan -[2563.36 --> 2570.00] is unfolding gabriel already knows what earth has yet to understand -[2571.60 --> 2576.72] all right another example comes a chapter later luke 2 18 to 14 there shepherds are in the field they're -[2576.72 --> 2582.48] watching their sheep and an angel appears and says this do not be afraid i bring you good news that will -[2582.48 --> 2590.56] cause great joy for all the people today the town of david a savior has been born to you he is the messiah -[2590.56 --> 2597.68] of the lord this will be assigned to you you will find a baby wrapped in clothes and lying in a manger -[2597.68 --> 2606.00] suddenly a great company of the heavenly hosts appear with the angel praising god and saying glory to god in -[2606.00 --> 2610.40] the highest heaven and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests -[2613.36 --> 2620.96] now as josh reminded us josh reminded us of last week the shepherds are an unseen outcast people -[2622.08 --> 2629.20] and yet they're the ones who are standing out in the field when heaven itself erupts open into song -[2630.88 --> 2634.88] notice what's happening here don't soften this the angels aren't bringing peace -[2636.00 --> 2643.84] they're bringing brightness and loudness and noise and worship just like the kids leaving this room -[2643.84 --> 2644.16] today -[2646.96 --> 2649.84] the shepherds were terrified -[2652.72 --> 2658.08] the angels are announcing the peace they're not bringing the peace but they're announcing the peace -[2658.08 --> 2665.28] that god has already brought into the world by sending his son here heaven once again comes down to -[2665.28 --> 2671.52] earth an earth that sees darkness and fear and silence because they've been waiting for this -[2671.52 --> 2678.40] messiah for a long time but these angels they see the big picture they see victory in the form of this -[2678.40 --> 2681.36] baby and they can't help but sing -[2683.84 --> 2689.68] and then our text today revelation 12 it completely pulls back the curtain and shows us what's really -[2689.68 --> 2694.80] happening behind the christmas story see a lot of revelation is a vision that john sees and here -[2694.80 --> 2700.64] john sees a woman a child and a dragon and it's not a puzzle that he has to solve but it's a picture -[2700.64 --> 2706.64] that he must understand the woman and again we're going to hum through this a little bit we could have a -[2706.64 --> 2713.60] series on this 12 these 12 verses but the woman here represents god's people through whom the messiah -[2713.60 --> 2721.52] and the child is jesus the promised king who is born he's threatened that he's ultimately exalted -[2721.52 --> 2726.88] onto god's throne and the dragon is satan doing everything he can to stop god's work -[2728.40 --> 2729.44] what's amazing -[2730.96 --> 2737.68] is that the dragon fails the child isn't defeated which we know we know this story he's victorious -[2737.68 --> 2755.28] that's why a war breaks out satan is cast down not because he's weak but because christ wins -[2756.16 --> 2760.40] and while this picture and revelation of god's redemption plan throughout all of time -[2761.84 --> 2766.00] that's what this picture is god's redemption plan throughout all of time -[2766.00 --> 2773.76] the birth of this baby both in revelation and in the gospels is the turning point of this plan -[2776.00 --> 2785.04] verse 10 of our text announces it clearly it says now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our god -[2788.80 --> 2792.88] christmas is not the beginning of the battle -[2792.88 --> 2802.64] christmas is the moment that heaven declares the outcome that's why the angels have to sing -[2805.36 --> 2813.20] now the dragon is still threatening but he's defeated he still rages but his time is short -[2813.20 --> 2819.12] c.s lewis says uh that the the devil the the dragon in this text is dangerous but doomed -[2819.12 --> 2825.20] but that's why life can still feel hard even after christ has come -[2827.20 --> 2831.68] revelation 12 reminds us of this when we look at christmas we may only see a baby -[2832.40 --> 2840.80] but heaven sees a victory and even when we can't see it all of heaven is fighting to secure us in the love of god -[2840.80 --> 2844.88] the love of god -[2847.52 --> 2854.56] while sometimes we're guilty of seeing christmas as mostly cutesy i think we're also guilty of -[2855.44 --> 2863.36] often having a narrow view of love rather than the expansive view of love like a passage of like revelation 12 portrays -[2863.36 --> 2868.80] i think now cultural love ends up playing out pretty shallow -[2869.44 --> 2876.32] love in our world is is often measured it's often calculated it's exchanged between people -[2876.32 --> 2881.92] and i'm not just talking about romantic love like a marriage or dating relationships it fits here for sure -[2882.48 --> 2885.92] but all relationships friendships siblings relationships with parents even -[2885.92 --> 2887.84] to be honest -[2889.84 --> 2895.60] and an underlying principle of narrow cultural love is transactional in nature and i know that that sounds -[2895.60 --> 2899.92] crass but i do think we've all seen love play out that way before -[2901.20 --> 2902.08] if you think about it -[2903.76 --> 2910.56] even when done for others sake for example love is often subconsciously undergirded with a transactional -[2910.56 --> 2917.28] aspect i love so i give whether that's time or energy or gifts or words or whatever -[2918.00 --> 2921.92] they feel something from that which makes me feel good -[2923.20 --> 2927.12] i give you feel i feel good we're happy -[2928.80 --> 2931.52] and i want to be careful because in some ways this is just -[2931.52 --> 2937.44] natural loving someone does require to give of ourselves and in many ways and then in often times when -[2937.44 --> 2943.60] love is received by someone well it does feel good it makes us happy but what happens when those -[2943.60 --> 2949.76] transactions start to fail what happens when that transactional love -[2951.12 --> 2958.00] stops feeling good what happens when life gets hard and the giving slows down or the returns aren't -[2958.00 --> 2964.64] received as well as they once were what happens when we realize that what we've invested in -[2964.64 --> 2972.32] the relationship that we've invested in no longer seems to be paying the same dividends that it once -[2972.32 --> 2972.56] did -[2972.56 --> 2980.16] and i'm sure we can all think of families or friendships or even marriages that have fallen apart -[2980.16 --> 2983.28] because of the line well i just don't love them anymore -[2985.92 --> 2990.80] so often the thing that supports that line the thing that that is the underlying truth -[2990.80 --> 2998.32] of the i don't love them anymore is this is i wasn't getting anything from them anymore -[2999.92 --> 3005.84] i wasn't being treated the same way i wasn't feeling the same way i once did because the returns weren't -[3005.84 --> 3015.44] coming see when love is safe when love is happy and it's based mainly on our feelings narrow love -[3015.44 --> 3023.68] love can end relationships can fall apart love becomes narrow when it's only cutesy -[3024.80 --> 3030.40] it becomes about our own feelings and what we get and what we receive -[3032.40 --> 3036.56] narrow cultural love at the root of it is selfish -[3036.56 --> 3046.00] but biblical love is different biblical love is expansive biblical love is selfless -[3046.80 --> 3052.64] biblical love pushes back against this narrow view of love by showing us something far bigger than -[3052.64 --> 3059.28] sentiment or momentary happiness it's a love that suffers it's a love that risks it's a love that -[3059.28 --> 3064.96] sacrifice is a love that doesn't always feel good but remains faithful -[3067.12 --> 3071.76] greater love gives everything for one another first john or sorry not first john regular john -[3071.76 --> 3080.24] the gospel of john 15 13 says this greater love has no one than this to lay down one's life for one's friends -[3080.24 --> 3092.32] when we look at christmas from only the earth's perspective we see a little baby in a manger -[3093.36 --> 3099.28] surrounded by cattle and sheep on a clear winter's night which was so sweet we see this picture -[3101.04 --> 3109.92] right we see this picture with sheep bowing down and haloed parents we see angels bringing doves and that -[3109.92 --> 3112.00] olive branch from noah's ark for some reason -[3115.52 --> 3119.76] we see camels and donkeys and cows that are for sure going to break into song at any moment -[3123.76 --> 3124.72] but if we stay here -[3128.40 --> 3130.32] we miss the depth of what god is doing -[3132.64 --> 3139.76] when we hear what the angels are really announcing christmas stops being small and cutesy -[3139.92 --> 3149.76] and becomes what it truly is god's decisive victory over sin and death that's why apocalyptic -[3149.76 --> 3156.16] scripture is here for us to pull back that curtain and to articulate this big picture of god's redemption -[3156.16 --> 3162.24] plan that needed christ's birth to take place the turning point of the story christmas love is not -[3162.24 --> 3169.20] sentimental it's incarnational it's not cutesy it's cosmic it's not selfish it's sacrificial -[3169.20 --> 3181.52] it is this expansive love of god that finally calms our restless hearts offering not just brief relief -[3182.32 --> 3192.24] but eternal hope in jesus our restless hearts that crave the calm are calmed only in the eternal love -[3192.24 --> 3200.08] and hope of jesus christ that's the message that's the angels bring to us on christmas that's the big idea -[3200.08 --> 3209.84] when our hearts are restless when we need relief when all we see is struggle the angels remind us that god's love -[3209.84 --> 3211.04] love wins -[3215.12 --> 3220.96] because we can trust that god's love ultimately wins over everything that makes our hearts restless -[3223.04 --> 3227.68] we can also trust that his love meets us right in the middle of our struggles -[3229.12 --> 3234.96] i know there's been times in my life where god has felt far away i remember a season of my life actually where -[3234.96 --> 3241.92] everything on the surface was going really well but i was not we had just had our second daughter we -[3241.92 --> 3246.08] were going to be moving into a new house that we had just bought in langley the one we currently live -[3246.08 --> 3251.28] in actually we were no longer vacant here at church so that season had ended and we're coming out of that i was -[3251.28 --> 3256.24] working decently well with our new pastor and i wasn't even in school yet so that stress wasn't even on -[3256.24 --> 3265.36] the horizon and yet i was having a hard time getting up in the morning see life was tiring and through -[3265.36 --> 3271.84] some lies that the devil was whispering in my ear i was feeling very ill-equipped and unprepared and -[3271.84 --> 3279.76] often useless and worst of all god seemed real far away from me like he wasn't there at all and as a -[3279.76 --> 3284.00] youth pastor i was making it inappropriately personal -[3286.48 --> 3290.96] later i learned that i was dealing actually with paternal postpartum depression but i also learned -[3290.96 --> 3297.60] that even though i felt like god wasn't part of my struggles his love for me never waned -[3298.56 --> 3304.80] eventually i remembered that his love conquers all and and he was with me all along and yeah i've had -[3304.80 --> 3309.28] other seasons since then where my mental health has dipped but again through the love of community -[3309.28 --> 3313.68] through the love of family through the love of friends and counselors and most importantly the -[3313.68 --> 3321.76] eternal love of our savior jesus christ i am more aware that his love for me his love for you -[3322.56 --> 3332.72] his love for the entire cosmos has never failed because jesus love is one even when our lives feel broken -[3332.72 --> 3342.24] he is with us in our struggles he's aware of what we're going through because he created us and he knows -[3342.24 --> 3343.76] us better than we even will -[3346.00 --> 3353.68] and he knows what it means to struggle because he came down from his throne and he took on flesh -[3355.20 --> 3361.68] he was tempted and he mourned and he grieved and he was tormented and tortured and he felt what it was -[3361.68 --> 3368.88] like to be alone and abandoned and depressed and hurting and our savior jesus christ came down from -[3368.88 --> 3374.32] his throne in heaven and became a baby for us all he lived the life that we fail to live each and every -[3374.32 --> 3381.36] day and he died a death that we deserve because we're the ones who's living the lives of sin not him -[3382.40 --> 3387.92] but he took on the weight of sin and brokenness on his shoulders with him on the cross and he bore our -[3387.92 --> 3394.00] suffering and shame and though it seemed like the dragon consumed him three days later he rose again -[3394.00 --> 3400.48] from the grave and he defeated that dragon once and for all and now he is exalted in the heavens where -[3400.48 --> 3408.00] he will one day come again to usher in his kingdom god's love wins -[3408.00 --> 3417.92] the battles we face are but moments in the light of the eternal glory we find in jesus now i don't -[3417.92 --> 3425.28] want to minimize what we go through because i know that life kicks us pretty hard but hear how paul describes -[3425.28 --> 3432.56] the seasons of struggle we face he says this in second corinthians 4 16 to 17 he says therefore we do not -[3432.56 --> 3440.64] lose heart though outwardly we are wasting away yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day for our -[3440.64 --> 3449.04] light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all -[3451.60 --> 3458.80] paul can call our struggles light and momentary because god's love has conquered them all -[3458.80 --> 3468.32] and we will receive an eternal glory that far outweighs anything we will experience here on earth -[3470.24 --> 3478.72] the angels sing of that glory that overcomes our hardest hardships that's the victorious love of -[3478.72 --> 3484.40] christ that's why christmas is more than just cutesy it's cosmic and that's why the angels are not simply -[3484.40 --> 3490.96] asking mary and the shepherds to think about helping out they are declaring victory over sin and death -[3490.96 --> 3497.04] forever and erupting into song because all is well -[3500.24 --> 3508.88] revelation 12 paints that picture of victory but our battles do still continue the angels break into song -[3508.88 --> 3515.52] because they know how the story ends but we can find rest for our restless hearts because we know the -[3515.52 --> 3522.96] end of the story too in a few days we celebrate christmas this turning point of god's redemption plan -[3522.96 --> 3531.84] christmas day and as we celebrate we're called to march ahead living out this selfless love for others -[3532.80 --> 3537.84] when we see the bigger story when we grasp the ending love becomes not something that's passive or -[3537.84 --> 3547.28] transactional but it moves us to stand and to act and to endure in this battle that is already guaranteed -[3548.16 --> 3554.88] it's already won we are called to be courageous in love as we enter into the battle for people's hearts -[3556.56 --> 3562.40] but we enter that battle with a different mindset than most see the scriptures are clear god doesn't -[3562.40 --> 3569.52] fight with the enemy's weapons satan's not defeated by power or force or fear and the kingdom of god is -[3569.52 --> 3576.48] not advanced by domination or intimidation paul reminds us of this too that the weapons that we fight are -[3576.48 --> 3582.64] not the weapons of the world second corinthians 10 3 to 4 says for though we live in the world we do not wage -[3582.64 --> 3589.92] war as the world does the weapons we fight with are not weapons of the world evil is overcome -[3589.92 --> 3599.76] in a far more surprising way through self-giving sacrificial love that's the kind of love that we're -[3599.76 --> 3605.12] talking about here at christmas where god doesn't arrive with an army but he arrives as a baby -[3607.76 --> 3612.96] this matters deeply in a world marked by polarization and division -[3612.96 --> 3621.28] when when tensions rise it is tempting even for us as christians to reach for those same tools that -[3621.28 --> 3631.52] the world uses to secure supposed peace we like to draw sharper lines to dig our heels in but to cast -[3631.52 --> 3639.60] ourselves as victims or try to to dress up worldly power as something holy we do this in the conversations -[3639.60 --> 3645.12] we have and the petitions we sign and the chat rooms we're a part of and the social media posts we make -[3646.16 --> 3649.44] but those tools have never brought lasting peace -[3651.20 --> 3655.36] at best they manage conflict at worst they deepen it -[3657.52 --> 3664.56] putting christian war paint on for an issue doesn't make it a holy war it just makes the conflict loud -[3664.56 --> 3675.52] our battles must look different because jesus won the war differently we're called to fight but not -[3675.52 --> 3683.20] with fists clenched in anger or voices raised in fear we fight with courage shaped by love and humility -[3683.76 --> 3689.52] with truth spoken in gentleness and with love willing to suffer for the sake of others -[3689.52 --> 3697.92] like the child in the manger god loves god's love sorry enters the world quietly vulnerably and -[3697.92 --> 3706.56] persistently and that is still the way his victory is made visible today so we can enter the battle without -[3706.56 --> 3714.32] fear and we can enter the battle with calm hearts and courageous confidence that the word of god will speak -[3714.32 --> 3722.16] because christ's love for us and what he accomplished we are invited into that battle but not as heroes or saviors -[3722.16 --> 3723.20] we have one already -[3725.68 --> 3734.00] but we're brought into battle as witnesses of our loving savior so we can go declare jesus as the brighter -[3734.00 --> 3742.24] and bringer of love and the savior of the world we can move forward after this christmas after the trees are down -[3742.24 --> 3749.52] and the hallmark movies switch from christmas to valentine's day we can enter into the january months -[3750.08 --> 3756.72] confident that our restless hearts can be calmed because god's love has won -[3758.72 --> 3765.68] so again go ahead enjoy your hot chocolate enjoy your christmas decorations enjoy that classic hallmark hit -[3765.68 --> 3772.88] christmas under wraps spelled with a w isn't that cute hallmark hallmark always knocks it out of the park -[3775.52 --> 3785.28] but let's please remember that it is only in the love of jesus that our restless hearts find true -[3785.84 --> 3793.44] eternal relief this cosmic eternal forever love that has won the victory -[3793.44 --> 3800.64] and in our world that is full of anxiety and polarity and chaos let's be agents of love -[3801.76 --> 3806.64] and join christ in that battle for his kingdom amen let's pray -[3812.56 --> 3813.28] god in heaven -[3815.36 --> 3819.04] we are days away from celebrating the birth of your son jesus christ -[3819.04 --> 3826.64] and lord we so often take this season as a time of reflection and a time of rest and lord those -[3826.64 --> 3836.16] those are good things but god please press upon our hearts the magnitude of what christmas actually is -[3837.28 --> 3842.00] god we pray that we are all to see the truth that we don't need to escape the world -[3842.00 --> 3848.96] into a cutesy christmas to find relief that we don't find relief from escaping our world at all but we -[3848.96 --> 3851.12] find relief because you entered our world -[3853.44 --> 3857.92] we thank you for christmas we thank you for humbling yourself -[3860.56 --> 3861.84] and entering this place -[3864.40 --> 3865.84] and god most of all we thank you -[3865.84 --> 3872.64] for your life death resurrection and ascension that we know the victory has been won may we be -[3872.64 --> 3877.84] agents of that love in this world that you have placed us in we pray this in your son's precious and -[3877.84 --> 3879.84] holy name amen -[3895.84 --> 3906.64] Witch 19 -[3906.64 --> 3908.00] cancer -[3908.00 --> 3918.24] holy -[3918.24 --> 3924.00] is -[3924.00 --> 3937.40] Underneath me, all around me, is the current of thy love. -[3937.40 --> 3950.40] Leading onward, leading onward, to thy glorious rest above. -[3950.40 --> 3966.40] O the deep, deep love of Jesus, spread His praise from shore to shore. -[3966.40 --> 3980.78] How He loves us, ever loves us, changes never, nevermore. -[3980.78 --> 3994.78] How He watches for His loved ones, died to call Him on His own. -[3995.42 --> 4008.38] How for them He's interceding, watches o'er them from the throne. -[4008.38 --> 4024.38] O the deep, deep love of Jesus, love of every love of best. -[4024.38 --> 4031.38] Tis an ocean, that's the blessing. -[4032.62 --> 4038.38] Tis a haven, sweet of rest. -[4039.58 --> 4052.38] O the deep, deep love of Jesus, tis a heaven of man to me. -[4052.38 --> 4059.88] And it lifts me up to glory. -[4060.48 --> 4067.38] For it lifts me up to Thee. -[4067.38 --> 4078.82] As we go from this place, I want to invite you all to stick around afterwards. -[4078.96 --> 4082.02] We'll have some refreshments out there in the foyer and the sanctuary as well. -[4082.24 --> 4087.48] And if you need prayer today, there are going to be prayer people available here at the front and elsewhere. -[4087.48 --> 4089.18] Well, they'll have yellow tags on. -[4089.28 --> 4093.14] Please do go to them for prayer or turn to your neighbor and ask them to pray for you. -[4093.18 --> 4094.68] I'm sure they would be happy to do so. -[4095.32 --> 4099.76] But as we go from this place into this final week before Christmas, -[4099.76 --> 4103.12] I invite you to all receive God's parting blessing. -[4104.32 --> 4106.72] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[4107.40 --> 4110.54] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[4110.96 --> 4115.10] The Lord turn his face toward you and give you his peace. -[4115.52 --> 4117.64] And all of God's people said, Amen. -[4117.64 --> 4117.78] Amen. -[4117.78 --> 4144.98] Should nothing of our efforts -[4144.98 --> 4149.88] and no legacy survive -[4149.88 --> 4155.04] unless the Lord does raise the house -[4155.04 --> 4159.38] in vain its builders strive -[4159.38 --> 4164.54] to you who boast tomorrow's gain -[4164.54 --> 4168.90] tell me what is your life -[4168.90 --> 4172.54] a mist that vanishes -[4172.54 --> 4178.38] at dawn all glory be to Christ -[4178.38 --> 4183.30] all glory be to Christ our King -[4183.30 --> 4187.82] all glory be to Christ -[4187.82 --> 4192.86] His rule and reign will ever sing -[4192.86 --> 4197.84] all glory be to Christ -[4197.84 --> 4202.56] His will be done -[4202.56 --> 4208.60] His kingdom come on earth as is above -[4208.60 --> 4214.38] who is Himself our daily bread -[4214.38 --> 4218.84] praise Him the Lord of love -[4218.84 --> 4223.80] let living water satisfy -[4223.80 --> 4228.38] the thirsty without price -[4228.38 --> 4233.46] we'll take a cup of kindness yet -[4233.46 --> 4237.88] all glory be to Christ -[4237.88 --> 4242.88] all glory be to Christ our King -[4242.88 --> 4247.60] all glory be to Christ -[4247.60 --> 4252.44] His rule and reign will ever sing -[4252.44 --> 4257.64] all glory be to Christ -[4257.64 --> 4262.92] when on the day the great -[4262.92 --> 4268.40] I am the faithful and the true -[4268.40 --> 4272.86] the Lamb who was for sinners -[4272.86 --> 4277.48] slain is making all things new -[4277.48 --> 4282.44] behold our God shall live with us -[4282.44 --> 4287.04] and be our steadfast light -[4287.04 --> 4292.00] and we shall bear His people be -[4292.00 --> 4296.40] all glory be to Christ -[4296.40 --> 4301.44] all glory be to Christ our King -[4301.44 --> 4306.44] all glory be to Christ -[4306.44 --> 4310.44] His rule and reign will ever sing -[4310.44 --> 4314.44] all glory be to Christ -[4314.44 --> 4319.44] all glory be to Christ our King -[4319.44 --> 4320.44] all glory be to Christ -[4320.44 --> 4322.44] all glory be to Christ -[4322.44 --> 4329.44] His rule and reign will ever sing -[4329.44 --> 4333.44] all glory be to Christ -[4333.44 --> 4337.44] all glory be to Christ -[4337.44 --> 4341.44] all glory be to Christ -[4341.44 --> 4347.44] all glory be to Christ -[4347.44 --> 4349.44] all glory be to Christ -[4349.44 --> 4379.42] all glory be to Christ -[4379.44 --> 4409.42] Thank you. -[4409.44 --> 4439.42] Thank you. -[4439.44 --> 4469.42] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 28, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 28, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3a0ff2f9049ba7298f86e86e3c97f36d94a0b738..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 28, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,115 +0,0 @@ -• Upcoming church events: New Year's Day skating and gathering, January 1st -• Invitation to provide shuttle service from Trinity Western University to the church -• Announcements for Sunridge Gardens worship leading event on the first Saturday of the month -• Pastor Chris welcomes guests and shares announcements before the service -• Inviting congregation to join a group and pass the peace of Christ -• Reading from Isaiah 63:7-9 about God's kindness and redemption of Israel -• Singing hymns and worship songs, including "Come and Worship" and "Alpha and Omega" -• Praising God for His glory, worthiness, and salvation through Jesus Christ -• Silent prayer of gratitude and praise to the Lord -• Repetition of "Amen" and "Hallelujah" -• Declaration that God is holy -• Invitation to shout and scream from the mountains that God is God -• Description of Christ as the thief of heaven's praises, robed in frail humanity -• Discussion of Christ's role as savior and redeemer, coming to ransom sinners -• Mention of Christ being the perfect Son of man, with no stain of sin -• Explanation of Christ fulfilling the law and bringing glory to God -• The speaker references a Christian hymn, "Come Behold the Wondrous Mystery" -• Discussion of Christ's resurrection and its significance for believers -• Explanation of offerings being taken for the church budget -• Introduction to North American Indigenous Ministries (NAME) and their work with First Nations people -• Blessing of an offering to support NAME's ministry in the Shushwap community -• Prayer and praise to God, expressing gratitude for life, abilities, and opportunities to serve Him -• Discussion of Christmas and family gatherings -• Questions about spending time with cousins, grandparents, and experiencing snow during the holidays -• Transition back to regular life after Christmas break -• Upcoming discussion in children's worship time about Jesus' birth and life after birth -• Blessing and prayer by church leaders -• Announcements: - • Note of gratitude from council for congregation's support - • Update on Linda Rook's bone cancer treatment and request for prayers -• Congregational prayer led by Clary, including thanksgiving and praise for God's love and gift of Jesus Christ -• Request for focus on one's own community and family -• Prayer for Wes and Lena Chepkema as they adjust to a new reality -• Prayer for Neil and Linda Rook regarding Linda's bone cancer diagnosis -• Prayer for John and Greta Kuypers awaiting surgery for John -• Prayer for Lane Benny who has stomach cancer -• Support for Leo and Debbie in supporting Lane through his treatments -• Reflection on the challenges of the Christmas season for some families -• Prayer for healing of relationships and conversations in difficult families -• General prayer for unspoken needs and concerns -• Invitation to turn to Luke 2:1 -• The speaker reflects on Christmas as a time of sadness and reminder of loss for some people. -• The speaker addresses the "now what" question after the holiday season, asking if anything has really changed. -• A biblical passage from Luke 2:20 is referenced as an answer to this question. -• The passage shows that after experiencing God's presence, the shepherds returned to their ordinary lives, but with a deeper appreciation and sense of purpose. -• The speaker suggests that the true significance of Christmas lies not in grand gestures or spectacular events, but in returning to our everyday lives with a renewed sense of purpose. -• The speaker wants to explore the phrase "the shepherds returned" in relation to faith, worship, and ordinary life after God's presence. -• Christmas doesn't end with everything being stable; instead, it means going back to ordinary lives. -• Luke tells us that the shepherds went back to their regular work and responsibilities without any change in circumstances. -• This suggests that Christmas doesn't provide a permanent spiritual high or relief from hardship, but rather reinterprets reality. -• The speaker argues that this is not a failure of the story, but rather its point: that the gospel works in everyday life, not just in moments of wonder and holiness. -• The truth of Christmas doesn't depend on external factors, such as music or feelings, but rather on the presence of God. -• Christmas is not a pause from reality, but rather God breaking into the world and transforming one's reality. -• The gospel promises God's presence in the midst of ordinary life, not escape from it. -• Christmas can feel like an interruption that must be left behind, but in reality, it marks a deeper work and a new perspective on life. -• Praise and glorification are not about external circumstances improving -• The shepherds' praise is because they've met their Messiah and Savior, not because their lives have gotten easier -• Christmas praise is distinct from mere optimism, which depends on circumstances changing -• Praise rests on God revealing himself to be trustworthy -• Worship isn't disconnected from reality, but settles into it and carries hardships and emotions -• In all life situations, including grief, wonder, questioning, and work, worship should be a constant response. -• The connection between worship and ordinary life -• Worship being based on the reliability of God, rather than novelty or emotion -• The immutability and faithfulness of God as a foundation for worship -• The shepherds' praise and worship being grounded in their experience of God's faithfulness and promises -• The concept of a created order and the child present within it -• Praise can follow individuals back to the fields if they remain faithful -• God's faithfulness is the defining reality that shapes our understanding -• Christmas is a divine act that confirms a permanent truth about the world -• God keeps his word, enters history, saves his people, and redefines everything else in relation to this truth -• The world remains unchanged, but God's character and faithfulness are now known. -• Worship isn't fragile because it's grounded in who God is and what He has done. -• Praise moves us from needing a right mood to having the right metaphysics or understanding of reality. -• Ordinary life remains with hope, as seen in the example of the shepherds after encountering their Messiah. -• The transformed perspective on ordinary life is now anchored in God's character and faithfulness. -• The speaker discusses how what may seem ordinary and stable can suddenly become extraordinary. -• A morning routine is used as an example of how something familiar can take on new meaning and purpose due to unexpected events or news. -• Examples include receiving a clean test result, having a grandchild come home for Christmas, or wanting to talk about their newfound faith in Jesus. -• The speaker suggests that even everyday activities like drinking coffee or reading scripture can become imbued with a sense of awe and gratitude. -• The presence of God in Christ has redefined their experience of the ordinary. -• Ordinary things are now seen through the lens of God's faithfulness and transformed in significance. -• God comes near to us because we have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son who came from the Father full of grace and truth. -• God meets the ordinary and sanctifies it by his presence. -• Jesus doesn't merely share our life but takes our place, dying the death that we deserved. -• Our ordinary is turned extraordinary because of what God has done. -• The idea that God's presence can be found in the ordinary things of life, not just in special occasions like Christmas. -• The importance of worshiping God through the finished work of Christ, rather than sentimental feelings or nostalgia. -• Reflecting on how returning to daily life after a holiday can be a time for spiritual growth and renewal. -• Identifying areas where one may feel weary or resistant, but also recognizing any persistent hope. -• Being mindful that only Christ can bring true fulfillment and faithfulness in life. -• The speaker emphasizes that God is inviting people to a new attentiveness rather than adding new burdens. -• Four ways to return oneself to God are discussed: prayerfully, attentively, in community, and with a renewed purpose. -• Returning prayerfully involves praying through work, routines, and responsibilities, as well as naming fears and hopes. -• Returning attentively involves noticing God's presence in daily life and how this reshapes one's approach. -• Returning in community means connecting with others in the body of Christ, even if energy is low or enthusiasm is fleeting. -• Returning with a renewed purpose involves remembering that God has kept his promises in Christ and how this changes one's approach to tasks and relationships. -• The speaker discusses carrying a renewed perspective into daily life after Christmas -• Trusting that Jesus' incarnation has changed everything, including routines and ordinary spaces -• God's presence has imbued new meaning in all areas of life -• Returning to the ordinary but doing so with an extraordinary understanding of God's reality and promise -• Praying for transformation of imagination and perspective on the world -• Expressions of gratitude and appreciation -• Seeking strength, light, and truth in difficult times -• Prayer for reliance on God's presence and guidance -• Surrendering life, will, and heart to God's control -• Invitation to connect with others for prayer and support -• Reminders of God's blessings and protection -• Prayers for God's rule and reign in hearts, hope, and power -• Laying down lives for heaven's souls -• Being the church and kingdom of God on earth -• Praying for revival and spiritual awakening -• Overcoming darkness with God's power -• Building God's kingdom on earth, in streets and lands -• Sending out a call to action to "build your kingdom" and "send your church on fire" -• Recognizing God's plan and purpose for humanity \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 28, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 28, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index dd9fba0d7621116c208fb23fcde85dc57a97602f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 28, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2238 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 19.10] How great the chasm that lay between us -[19.10 --> 24.94] How high the mountain I could not climb -[24.94 --> 31.96] In desperation I turned to heaven -[31.96 --> 38.22] And spoke your name into the night -[38.22 --> 45.58] Then through the darkness your loving kindness -[45.58 --> 51.36] Tore through the shadows of my soul -[51.36 --> 58.48] The work is finished The end is written -[58.48 --> 64.92] Jesus Christ my living hope -[64.92 --> 75.18] Who could imagine So great a mercy -[75.18 --> 82.30] What heart could fathom Such boundless grace -[82.30 --> 88.30] The God of ages Stepped down from glory -[88.30 --> 95.42] To wear my sin And bear my shame -[95.42 --> 102.54] The cross has spoken I am forgiven -[102.54 --> 109.66] The King of kings Called me his own -[109.66 --> 116.78] Beautiful Savior I'm yours forever -[116.78 --> 122.78] Jesus Christ my living hope -[122.78 --> 125.90] Hallelujah -[125.90 --> 129.90] Praise the one who set me free -[129.90 --> 133.02] Hallelujah -[133.02 --> 136.34] Death has lost its grip on me -[136.34 --> 139.74] You have broken every chain -[139.74 --> 143.02] This self is shed in your name -[143.02 --> 150.14] Jesus Christ my living hope -[150.14 --> 152.14] Jesus Christ my living hope -[152.14 --> 154.14] Hallelujah -[154.14 --> 161.26] Then came the morning That sealed the price -[161.26 --> 163.26] And the Lord of kings -[163.26 --> 164.18] And the Lord of kings -[164.18 --> 165.26] I am the one who set me free -[165.26 --> 166.26] Hallelujah -[166.26 --> 169.26] Death has lost its grip on me -[169.26 --> 171.26] You have broken every chain -[171.26 --> 173.26] This self is shed in your name -[173.26 --> 177.26] Jesus Christ my living hope -[177.26 --> 178.38] Jesus Christ my living hope -[178.38 --> 184.38] Then came the morning That sealed the promise -[184.38 --> 190.38] Your buried body Began to breathe -[190.38 --> 196.38] Out of the silence The roaring lion -[196.38 --> 202.38] Declared the grave Has no claim on me -[202.38 --> 203.50] Has no claim on me -[203.50 --> 205.50] Has no claim on me -[205.50 --> 209.50] Then came the morning That sealed the promise -[209.50 --> 211.50] Your buried body Began to breathe -[211.50 --> 215.50] Out of the silence The roaring lion -[215.50 --> 219.50] Declared the grave Has no claim on me -[219.50 --> 221.50] Out of the silence The roaring lion -[221.50 --> 225.50] Declared the grave Has no claim on me -[225.50 --> 227.50] Has no claim on me -[227.50 --> 229.50] Has no claim on me -[229.50 --> 232.62] Jesus yours is the victory -[232.62 --> 236.62] Jesus yours is the victory -[236.62 --> 242.62] Oh, hallelujah -[242.62 --> 244.62] Hallelujah -[244.62 --> 248.62] Praise the one who set me free -[248.62 --> 250.62] Hallelujah -[250.62 --> 254.62] Death has lost its grip on me -[254.62 --> 258.62] You have broken every chain -[258.62 --> 262.86] This now we say in your name -[262.86 --> 267.74] Jesus Christ my living hope -[267.74 --> 271.74] Hallelujah -[278.70 --> 279.42] Good morning -[281.18 --> 282.86] Welcome to church -[282.86 --> 286.30] A special welcome if you are a guest with us this morning -[286.30 --> 293.82] My name is Chris one of the pastors here and it's my privilege to lead us in our shared worship together this morning -[294.14 --> 298.46] Before we begin I just have a few announcements two of them actually -[299.58 --> 303.42] First on January 1st New Year's Day -[304.06 --> 310.22] We have the opportunity to gather as a church family and do some skating together -[310.22 --> 315.42] And so January 1st at 1230 at Canland Arena -[316.06 --> 320.38] Sometimes called Twin Rinks Arena just a little ways over there -[321.10 --> 323.10] We have the ice sheet for an hour -[323.74 --> 329.74] We can skate following that we've got the upstairs room where there'll be some hot chocolates and refreshments and the like -[329.74 --> 338.30] I was talking earlier with someone and I said I was going to encourage people to bring any leftover baking that you might have -[338.94 --> 340.94] And then someone looked at me and said leftover -[342.30 --> 343.90] So if you have any extra baking -[344.62 --> 348.14] Please go ahead and bring that with you on January 1st -[348.14 --> 350.14] As we gather for skating -[350.86 --> 353.50] The second announcement is more of -[354.62 --> 357.18] An invitation to consider -[358.54 --> 364.54] This past week the president of the Trinity Western University Student Association -[365.10 --> 368.14] emailed me and said we want to -[368.78 --> 370.78] Start running a shuttle from -[371.42 --> 372.86] Trinity to your church -[373.58 --> 375.26] every week -[375.26 --> 380.38] But you need to provide the shuttle and you need to staff it and you need to schedule it -[383.50 --> 387.34] To which I said that sounds like a great problem for you guys -[388.22 --> 393.82] To figure out how to solve and so he has invited us to consider this opportunity -[394.46 --> 398.62] We're going to try to run it for an as an experiment for a month or so -[399.26 --> 401.98] Lord willing beginning on January 25 -[401.98 --> 407.10] And so the end of january we would love to see this and so i'm putting this to you -[407.98 --> 409.02] wondering -[409.02 --> 414.94] How might the lord move us to solve this problem or to meet this request and so -[415.50 --> 416.70] If you have some ideas -[417.90 --> 421.66] We would probably need to start with at least a 15 person vehicle -[424.06 --> 427.82] And so if you have some ideas on how to solve that or address that please talk to me -[427.82 --> 433.02] Uh, either today or any time in the next week or so we'd love to get that moving -[434.54 --> 435.82] That's all I have for announcements -[437.82 --> 439.26] Sunridge gardens -[439.26 --> 440.94] Thanks ken it's good thing you're here -[441.42 --> 443.42] It's good thing you got your reminder on your phone -[443.90 --> 448.62] sunridge gardens next saturday because it's the first saturday of the month -[448.62 --> 454.38] Uh at 2 p.m. We have a group that leads worship at sunridge seniors living facility up the hill -[455.10 --> 457.50] You're invited to join that group as well -[458.38 --> 460.38] Anything else? -[461.74 --> 466.30] Perfect let's stand together we can be welcomed by god in his presence -[466.30 --> 475.50] After I speak god's greeting to us this morning -[475.50 --> 479.34] I invite you to turn to those around you and to extend that greeting -[480.06 --> 481.50] By welcoming those -[481.50 --> 487.90] Beside you and behind you in front of you in worship by passing the peace of christ or by saying the lord be with you -[488.46 --> 492.14] Welcoming them together receive the greeting of our good god -[492.14 --> 494.14] grace -[495.34 --> 504.30] Mercy and peace to you from god our father from the lord jesus christ son and our savior through the presence and power of the holy spirit -[505.18 --> 507.18] amen -[522.14 --> 542.62] Good morning church and welcome to worship -[543.42 --> 547.66] Our call to worship today is from isaiah 63 verses 7 to 9 -[547.66 --> 555.10] I will tell of the kindness of the lord the deeds for which he is to be praised according to all the lord has done for us -[555.74 --> 561.34] Yes, many good things he has done for israel according to his compassion and many kindnesses -[562.06 --> 567.98] He said surely they are my people children who will be true to me and so he became their savior -[568.62 --> 573.66] In all their distress. He too was distressed and the angel of his presence saved them -[574.30 --> 580.46] In his love and mercy he redeemed them. He lifted them up and carried them all the days of old -[580.46 --> 582.78] and led them all the days of the lord -[583.66 --> 584.94] courteous -[585.66 --> 586.86] so -[588.22 --> 589.02] and -[589.02 --> 591.02] Amen. -[619.02 --> 621.02] Amen. -[649.02 --> 660.02] God with us is now residing, yon earth shines the infant light. -[661.28 --> 672.02] Come and worship, come and worship, worship Christ the newborn King. -[672.02 --> 684.02] Sages, leave your contemplation, by their vision's beam afar. -[684.02 --> 695.02] Seek the great desire of nations, we have seen His natal star. -[695.02 --> 707.02] Come and worship, come and worship, worship Christ the newborn King. -[707.96 --> 718.30] Seekers run with low repentance, doomed for guilt to endless pains. -[718.30 --> 729.16] Justice now revokes the sentence, mercy calls you, break your chains. -[729.64 --> 740.30] Come and worship, come and worship, worship Christ the newborn King. -[740.30 --> 742.30] Seek the great desire of nations. -[742.30 --> 743.30] Seek the great desire of nations. -[743.30 --> 754.68] The way infant, now we view Him, He shall fill His Father's throne. -[754.68 --> 764.68] Gather all the nations to Him, every meal shrub and bow down. -[764.68 --> 776.68] Come and worship, come and worship, worship Christ the newborn King. -[776.68 --> 788.68] O creation, join in praising, God the Father, Spirit, Son. -[788.68 --> 799.68] Evermore your voices raising, to the eternal free in one. -[799.68 --> 811.68] Come and worship, come and worship, worship Christ the newborn King. -[811.74 --> 812.68] Rean Good day, brother. -[813.06 --> 813.68] Chapel, hope with stone. -[814.12 --> 814.68] As a justice-century season. -[814.68 --> 815.70] Hosts in this beautiful night. -[815.70 --> 816.68] Go and worship, I will sing. -[816.68 --> 817.72] 4,100,1,4,5. -[817.72 --> 818.44] But Jesus has more, he will sing. -[818.44 --> 822.54] Martha, fellowship is present. -[822.54 --> 832.00] eta, fellowship will heal before we become younger. -[832.00 --> 833.84] Christ tek jurisdiction. -[833.84 --> 836.46] Repet care to nanaka. -[836.78 --> 838.62] ummer. -[838.76 --> 840.04] The range of Mont Gemini -[840.04 --> 853.16] You are Alpha and Omega. -[853.16 --> 860.66] We worship you, our Lord. -[861.04 --> 867.50] You are worthy to be praised. -[870.04 --> 878.70] You are Alpha and Omega. -[878.70 --> 885.70] We worship you, our Lord. -[886.62 --> 893.08] You are worthy to be praised. -[893.08 --> 903.74] We give you all the glory. -[903.74 --> 910.40] We worship you, our Lord. -[910.40 --> 916.40] You are worthy to be praised. -[916.40 --> 928.06] We give you all the glory. -[928.06 --> 934.72] We worship you, our Lord. -[934.72 --> 942.72] You are worthy to be praised. -[942.72 --> 952.38] You are Alpha and Omega. -[952.38 --> 959.04] We worship you, our Lord. -[959.04 --> 967.04] You are worthy to be praised. -[967.04 --> 976.70] You are Alpha and Omega. -[976.70 --> 983.36] We worship you, our Lord. -[983.36 --> 988.36] You are worthy to be praised. -[988.36 --> 997.02] We worship you, our Lord. -[997.02 --> 1003.02] You are worthy to be praised. -[1003.02 --> 1007.02] We worship you, our Lord. -[1007.02 --> 1015.68] You are worthy to be praised. -[1015.68 --> 1026.34] We give you all the glory. -[1026.34 --> 1031.00] We worship you, our Lord. -[1031.00 --> 1035.00] You are worthy to be praised. -[1035.00 --> 1039.66] We worship you, our Lord. -[1039.66 --> 1043.66] We worship you, our Lord. -[1043.66 --> 1049.66] You are worthy to be praised. -[1049.66 --> 1055.66] We worship you, our Lord. -[1055.66 --> 1064.32] You are worthy to be praised. -[1064.32 --> 1074.32] You are Alpha and Omega. -[1074.32 --> 1080.32] We worship you, our Lord. -[1080.32 --> 1093.32] You are worthy to be praised. -[1093.32 --> 1095.72] Please join us in a silent prayer of gratitude and praise. -[1110.32 --> 1140.30] We worship you, our Lord. -[1140.30 --> 1142.30] Lord, thank you for who you are. -[1142.30 --> 1144.30] Please hear our prayers, our confession. -[1144.30 --> 1145.30] Amen. -[1145.30 --> 1147.30] Amen. -[1147.30 --> 1149.30] Amen. -[1149.30 --> 1150.30] Amen. -[1150.30 --> 1151.30] Amen. -[1151.30 --> 1153.30] Amen. -[1153.30 --> 1155.30] Amen. -[1155.30 --> 1157.30] Amen. -[1157.30 --> 1159.30] Amen. -[1159.30 --> 1160.30] Amen. -[1160.30 --> 1161.30] Amen. -[1161.30 --> 1162.30] Amen. -[1162.30 --> 1163.30] Amen. -[1163.30 --> 1165.30] Amen. -[1165.30 --> 1166.30] Amen. -[1166.30 --> 1167.30] Amen. -[1167.30 --> 1168.30] Amen. -[1168.30 --> 1169.30] Amen. -[1169.30 --> 1170.30] Amen. -[1170.30 --> 1172.30] Amen. -[1172.30 --> 1175.30] Amen. -[1175.30 --> 1176.30] Amen. -[1176.30 --> 1177.30] Amen. -[1177.30 --> 1178.30] Amen. -[1179.30 --> 1180.30] Amen. -[1180.30 --> 1181.30] Amen. -[1181.30 --> 1182.30] Amen. -[1182.30 --> 1183.30] Amen. -[1183.30 --> 1184.30] Amen. -[1184.30 --> 1185.30] Amen. -[1185.30 --> 1189.30] Amen. -[1189.30 --> 1195.30] Amen. -[1195.30 --> 1197.30] Amen. -[1197.30 --> 1198.30] Amen. -[1198.30 --> 1199.30] Amen. -[1199.30 --> 1200.28] Amen. -[1200.28 --> 1203.84] And know that you are holy. -[1206.24 --> 1209.96] And know that you are holy. -[1212.86 --> 1218.52] And oh, we'll sing out hallelujah. -[1218.52 --> 1226.24] And we will cry out hallelujah. -[1230.28 --> 1242.92] All the hearts who are content. -[1244.92 --> 1248.84] And all who feel unworthy. -[1250.98 --> 1255.84] And all who work with nothing will end. -[1255.84 --> 1260.84] And know that you are holy. -[1263.08 --> 1268.84] And oh, we'll sing out hallelujah. -[1268.84 --> 1275.84] And we will cry out hallelujah. -[1275.84 --> 1280.84] And we will sing out hallelujah. -[1282.84 --> 1288.84] And we will cry out hallelujah. -[1288.84 --> 1289.84] Hallelujah. -[1289.84 --> 1305.84] Shout it. -[1305.84 --> 1311.84] Go on and scream it from the mountains. -[1311.84 --> 1317.84] Go on and tell it to the masses. -[1318.84 --> 1324.84] That he is God. -[1324.84 --> 1325.84] That he is God. -[1325.84 --> 1326.84] That he is God. -[1326.84 --> 1327.84] That he is God. -[1327.84 --> 1329.84] That he is God. -[1329.84 --> 1331.84] Shout it. -[1331.84 --> 1333.84] Go on and scream it from the mountains. -[1333.84 --> 1335.84] Go on and tell it to the masses. -[1335.84 --> 1337.84] That he is God. -[1337.84 --> 1339.84] Go on and tell it to the masses. -[1339.84 --> 1341.84] That he is God. -[1341.84 --> 1342.84] To the masses. -[1342.84 --> 1343.84] That he is God. -[1343.84 --> 1344.84] That he is God. -[1344.84 --> 1348.84] That he is God. -[1348.84 --> 1353.84] Shout it. -[1353.84 --> 1354.84] Go on and scream it from the mountains. -[1354.84 --> 1356.84] Go on and tell it to the masses. -[1356.84 --> 1357.84] That he is God. -[1357.84 --> 1359.84] That he is God. -[1359.84 --> 1361.84] Shout it. -[1361.84 --> 1363.84] Go on and scream it from the mountains. -[1363.84 --> 1368.84] Go on and tell it to the masses. -[1368.84 --> 1370.84] That he is God. -[1371.84 --> 1376.84] That he is God. -[1376.84 --> 1381.84] Shout it. -[1381.84 --> 1386.84] Go on and scream it from the mountains. -[1386.84 --> 1401.84] Go on and tell it to the master that he is God. -[1401.84 --> 1431.82] We will sing a hallelujah, we will cry a hallelujah. -[1431.82 --> 1438.16] Go on and scream it from the mountains. -[1439.42 --> 1451.04] Go on and tell it to the master that he is God. -[1451.04 --> 1458.18] Shout it. -[1458.64 --> 1463.38] Go on and scream it from the mountains. -[1463.38 --> 1476.38] Go on and tell it to the master that he is God. -[1476.38 --> 1483.98] Go on and scream it from the mountains. -[1483.98 --> 1491.58] Go on and scream it from the mountains. -[1491.58 --> 1499.18] Go on and scream it from the mountains. -[1499.18 --> 1518.72] Go on and scream it from the mountains. -[1518.72 --> 1536.72] Let me hold our one-to-sister in the heavenly heavenly. -[1536.72 --> 1546.72] He the thief of heaven's praises, robed in frail humanity. -[1546.72 --> 1556.72] In our longing, in our darkness, now the light of life has come. -[1556.72 --> 1566.72] Up to Christ, to come to Savior, to confess to ransom us. -[1566.72 --> 1584.72] Come behold the wondrous mystery, He the perfect Son of man. -[1584.72 --> 1594.72] In His living, in His suffering, never trace nor stain of sin. -[1594.72 --> 1604.72] See the true and better Adam, come to save the hell-bound man. -[1604.72 --> 1614.72] In Christ, the great and sure fulfillment of the law in Him we stand. -[1614.72 --> 1630.72] Come behold the wondrous mystery, Christ the Lord upon the tree. -[1630.72 --> 1640.72] In the stead of ruined sinners, hangs a lamb in victory. -[1640.72 --> 1650.72] See the price of our redemption, see the Father's plan unfold. -[1650.72 --> 1660.72] Bringing many sons to glory, grace unmeasures, love untold. -[1660.72 --> 1676.72] Come behold the wondrous mystery, Slave by death, the God of life. -[1676.72 --> 1678.72] Christ the Lord upon the tree. -[1678.72 --> 1681.72] But no grave could e'er restrain Him. -[1681.72 --> 1686.72] Praise the Lord, He is alive. -[1686.72 --> 1691.72] What a foretaste of deliverance. -[1691.72 --> 1696.72] How unwavering our hope. -[1696.72 --> 1700.72] Christ in power resurrected. -[1700.72 --> 1702.72] As we will be when He comes. -[1702.72 --> 1704.72] As we will be when He comes. -[1704.72 --> 1707.72] What a foretaste of deliverance. -[1707.72 --> 1709.72] How unwavering our hope. -[1709.72 --> 1710.72] Christ in power resurrected. -[1710.72 --> 1715.72] As we will be when He comes. -[1715.72 --> 1720.72] Christ in power resurrected. -[1720.72 --> 1725.72] As we will be when He comes. -[1725.72 --> 1726.72] Christ in power resurrected. -[1726.72 --> 1727.72] We will be when He comes. -[1727.72 --> 1728.72] Christ in power resurrected. -[1728.72 --> 1729.72] We will be when He comes. -[1729.72 --> 1730.72] We will be when He comes. -[1730.72 --> 1731.72] You know how unwavering our hopegeldium -[1731.72 --> 1732.72] whose testament to us. -[1732.72 --> 1733.72] As we will be when He up and our life Countries. -[1733.72 --> 1736.72] YourDidius here is a miraclesabe kind. -[1736.72 --> 1739.72] The biblical chaos and destiny are built. -[1739.72 --> 1756.80] Good morning. -[1756.80 --> 1760.78] My name is Brenda and I'm one of the deacons here at Emanuel. -[1760.78 --> 1764.96] This is the last Sunday of 2025. -[1764.96 --> 1768.50] How did we get here? -[1768.50 --> 1775.18] Our offerings this morning are for the budget. -[1775.18 --> 1781.82] This is the last opportunity, or up until the 31st, I guess, to give to the budget of our -[1781.82 --> 1783.94] church here. -[1783.94 --> 1786.70] And there's various ways that you can give as well. -[1786.70 --> 1791.70] Please make sure that anything that goes into the bags today is designated. -[1791.70 --> 1795.98] If you want it to go for budget, you label it as such. -[1795.98 --> 1798.94] And I know it says Benevolence up there. -[1798.94 --> 1800.66] Our special offering today is not for Benevolence. -[1800.66 --> 1806.72] It actually is for NAME, North American Indigenous Ministries. -[1806.72 --> 1812.58] NAME is committed to the growth and maturity of the First Nations Church, resulting in vibrant -[1812.58 --> 1815.54] ministry to its community and beyond. -[1815.54 --> 1821.72] A desire to see strong, healthy First Nations Native American believers connected to strong, -[1821.72 --> 1824.22] healthy local churches. -[1824.22 --> 1828.22] In some areas, the local church will have a distinct First Nations identity. -[1828.22 --> 1832.22] In other locations, the identity may be more multicultural. -[1832.22 --> 1837.22] Equipping and supporting First Nations people to engage in ministry near and far is very important -[1837.22 --> 1839.40] to NAME. -[1839.40 --> 1847.30] Through NAME, Tim and Charity Johnson and their family, Katie, Jessie, Mayan, Bo, work with the -[1847.30 --> 1852.66] Shushwap First Nations to develop relationships with youth and young families there. -[1852.66 --> 1856.22] Our church has supported them for many years. -[1856.22 --> 1861.70] And they are working towards a grounded and strong identity and understanding of who the creator -[1861.70 --> 1865.62] is and the love that he has for all people. -[1865.62 --> 1871.02] And we would like to bless them with an offering today as well to help them in the ministry that -[1871.02 --> 1873.16] they do in the Shushwap. -[1873.16 --> 1875.16] Let's give as God has given to us. -[1891.70 --> 1906.02] For this is the day you've given your servant. -[1906.02 --> 1918.02] I will rejoice and be glad for the strength I have to live and breathe. -[1918.02 --> 1923.34] For each skill your grace has given me. -[1923.34 --> 1934.34] For the needs and opportunities that will glorify your great name. -[1934.34 --> 1944.66] For each skill your grace has given me. -[1944.66 --> 1955.66] Before you I kneel and ask for your goodness To cover the work of my hands -[1955.66 --> 1964.32] For patience and peace to shape all my labor Your grace for me -[1964.32 --> 1972.64] For your thoughts and my path Flow with me like a living stream -[1972.64 --> 1983.64] Wear away the stones of pride and green Till your dweys are dwelling deep in me -[1983.64 --> 1988.64] And a harvest of life is grown -[1988.64 --> 2013.62] Before you we kneel our Master and Maker Establish the work of our hands And order our steps to be -[2013.62 --> 2020.62] To seek first your kingdom In every small and great task May we live the gospel of your grace Serve your purpose in our fleeting days Then our lives will bring eternal praise And glory to your great name -[2020.62 --> 2039.54] Have Your great name And all glory to your great name -[2039.54 --> 2044.36] And all glory to your great name. -[2045.14 --> 2050.66] And all glory to your great name. -[2050.66 --> 2080.64] And all glory to your great name. -[2081.40 --> 2083.36] I haven't seen you guys in a while. -[2083.48 --> 2085.80] So can I still say Merry Christmas to you guys? -[2085.84 --> 2086.70] Is that still possible? -[2087.20 --> 2088.76] Even though it's a couple days late? -[2089.54 --> 2091.74] Can you guys say it back to me and everybody else here? -[2091.80 --> 2092.44] Nice and loud? -[2094.94 --> 2095.46] Right on. -[2095.52 --> 2097.92] Well today I wore my special sweater for you guys. -[2098.00 --> 2098.40] You see this? -[2098.44 --> 2099.72] I wear it every Christmas. -[2100.00 --> 2100.66] Is it kind of cool? -[2102.64 --> 2103.92] You not sure it's a nice sweater? -[2105.66 --> 2107.60] Well your dad says I don't have a nice sweater. -[2107.68 --> 2109.38] Well I'm going to have to talk to your dad after this. -[2109.38 --> 2111.44] The one thing about this sweater though. -[2111.50 --> 2112.76] Every year I put it on. -[2113.02 --> 2114.42] It gets tighter and tighter. -[2114.54 --> 2117.18] It's probably getting shrinking in the wash right? -[2117.32 --> 2118.30] Is that probably what's happening? -[2118.82 --> 2119.12] Okay. -[2119.12 --> 2121.26] I'm getting bigger. -[2121.38 --> 2121.82] Thanks buddy. -[2123.60 --> 2126.78] I got a couple questions about Christmas I'd like to ask you guys though. -[2127.32 --> 2129.28] We're going to talk a lot more in the back about it. -[2129.32 --> 2130.30] But I got some questions. -[2130.40 --> 2134.72] How many of you guys got to spend some time over Christmas with some cousins you haven't -[2134.72 --> 2135.52] seen in a while? -[2135.52 --> 2136.70] Oh right on. -[2136.88 --> 2137.14] Good. -[2137.74 --> 2139.22] How about grandparents? -[2139.52 --> 2141.08] Did everybody get to see some grandparents? -[2142.02 --> 2142.42] Yeah? -[2143.00 --> 2143.62] That's good. -[2144.30 --> 2147.62] How about did anybody do anything fun and exciting? -[2147.78 --> 2150.02] Like did anybody go up to where there's like snow? -[2150.16 --> 2152.28] Did anybody get a chance to go anywhere near snow? -[2153.08 --> 2153.82] A little bit. -[2154.64 --> 2155.18] Right on. -[2155.36 --> 2159.06] How about is everybody happy about not being in school right now? -[2159.46 --> 2159.76] Yeah. -[2160.50 --> 2162.10] Is that one of the best parts about it? -[2162.10 --> 2168.10] Well now that Christmas is over we got to kind of get back to the regular life. -[2168.38 --> 2170.46] Parents maybe are going back to work tomorrow maybe. -[2171.66 --> 2174.32] And we got to maybe we're going to start thinking we'll get back to school. -[2174.44 --> 2177.86] So that's what we're going to talk about in children's worship time is the time after -[2177.86 --> 2179.54] the shepherds saw baby Jesus. -[2179.66 --> 2183.94] We're going to talk a bit about that and what we do after Jesus is born. -[2184.38 --> 2184.90] Sound good? -[2185.82 --> 2188.34] Let's get everybody to stand up and we're going to do the blessing. -[2192.10 --> 2195.00] Let the Lord be with you. -[2195.18 --> 2196.80] And also with you. -[2222.10 --> 2223.80] Let the Lord be with you. -[2223.80 --> 2224.10] Let the Lord be with you. -[2224.10 --> 2225.10] Let the Lord be with you. -[2225.10 --> 2226.10] Let the Lord be with you. -[2226.10 --> 2228.02] My name is Clary. -[2228.22 --> 2237.04] I'm an elder here and it is my privilege to lead us in our family congregational prayer -[2237.04 --> 2237.54] this morning. -[2238.38 --> 2245.16] Before doing that just two announcements from council. -[2245.16 --> 2256.68] Just a note of gratitude to the congregation for all the support prayer and finances for -[2256.68 --> 2259.72] the work and the ministry of this church over the last year. -[2259.72 --> 2276.92] As of this week we're around 7% behind in our budget and we ask you prayerfully consider that -[2276.92 --> 2277.18] number. -[2278.24 --> 2281.70] And also Linda Rook with her husband Neil. -[2282.00 --> 2284.56] Want to thank everyone for your prayers and support. -[2284.56 --> 2293.84] Linda has a CT scan this morning to find out the scope of her bone cancer and we pray obviously -[2293.84 --> 2298.86] for good results and for a good plan going forward. -[2299.86 --> 2305.36] And we will pray that the Lord bring healing, strength and patience. -[2308.02 --> 2310.50] So please join me as we pray. -[2310.50 --> 2310.56] Amen. -[2314.56 --> 2325.50] Our gracious Father in heaven and here among us we want to say thank you to you for this -[2325.50 --> 2326.26] new day. -[2326.58 --> 2336.56] This first day of the week where yet again as you yourself have done and continue to do -[2336.56 --> 2349.34] we are able to rest and put away our concerns and our work and begin a new week stepping out -[2349.34 --> 2356.44] in faith and not scurrying and hurrying and stockpiling for the future. -[2356.44 --> 2357.44] And we are going to pray with you for this world. -[2357.44 --> 2357.74] And we are going to show you for this moment. -[2357.74 --> 2358.44] We are going to ask you for this moment. -[2358.44 --> 2359.44] Thank you. -[2359.44 --> 2360.44] I want to ask you for this moment. -[2360.44 --> 2361.44] And I'm to ask you for this moment. -[2361.44 --> 2370.24] You invite us to gather together to praise you and cast aside the urgency and often legitimate -[2370.24 --> 2373.06] urgency of the demands of life. -[2374.00 --> 2384.26] And in a sense we can reset our compass, reset our hearts and be reminded of your lavish love -[2384.26 --> 2386.62] and your great gift of yourself. -[2387.16 --> 2393.08] And particularly in this season of remembering your incarnation, -[2393.94 --> 2400.94] Father, we want to say thank you to you for living among us -[2400.94 --> 2413.98] and for becoming a visible friend and companion and savior -[2413.98 --> 2420.38] not an abstraction but real, flesh and blood. -[2421.54 --> 2426.98] This is a gift beyond our wildest dreams -[2426.98 --> 2433.76] and even for those of us who have loved you as long as we have memory, -[2434.36 --> 2435.82] this is a great mystery. -[2437.20 --> 2441.26] But just because we don't understand it doesn't mean it's any less important. -[2441.26 --> 2445.78] So thank you, Father, for making your dwelling among us. -[2446.58 --> 2456.64] And we ask that today and through this week we may have glimpses of just how amazing this is -[2456.64 --> 2464.44] and that our hearts may rejoice at your friendship and your love. -[2464.44 --> 2473.74] This morning, Lord, we have a number of praises and petitions and concerns -[2473.74 --> 2476.24] that we want to lift up to you. -[2476.64 --> 2481.88] Again, not because we're worried you forgot that is not the case -[2481.88 --> 2490.72] but so that we may collectively remember and beseech you and praise you -[2490.72 --> 2495.00] for we are creatures who so quickly forget. -[2495.96 --> 2502.70] So, Father, we ask that starting this morning already -[2502.70 --> 2506.38] that you can use this church family that you have knit together -[2506.38 --> 2510.98] to reflect your grace here in our communities. -[2512.40 --> 2517.50] In the advent of cell phones -[2517.50 --> 2521.66] and the planet being stitched together and connected, -[2522.38 --> 2529.34] it's easy to have a focus that is everywhere else -[2529.34 --> 2532.38] but at our own dinner tables and in our own communities. -[2532.38 --> 2537.82] So, help us remember, Lord, that you have placed us in this time -[2537.82 --> 2543.96] and in this place to be an agent of your grace and reconciliation -[2543.96 --> 2548.44] here among us and where we live. -[2550.38 --> 2555.50] We lift up the praises of Wes and Lena Chepkema -[2555.50 --> 2560.54] as they adjust to their new reality for the food, for the cards, -[2561.18 --> 2564.52] for the visits, and for the prayers they have received. -[2565.14 --> 2565.80] Thank you, Lord. -[2566.98 --> 2568.96] Continue to bless them. -[2571.88 --> 2575.08] We also ask, Lord, that you continue to fortify -[2575.08 --> 2577.02] Neil and Linda Rook -[2577.02 --> 2580.62] in the light of her recent diagnosis of bone cancer -[2580.62 --> 2583.94] and we give you praise that this morning -[2583.94 --> 2588.02] they are finding more answers. -[2589.22 --> 2592.18] Strengthen and encourage them -[2592.18 --> 2594.96] and may your grace abound. -[2596.56 --> 2598.02] In the same light, Lord, -[2598.22 --> 2602.36] we grant peace, patience, and perseverance -[2602.36 --> 2604.86] to John and Greta Kuypers -[2604.86 --> 2607.16] as they await surgery for John. -[2607.16 --> 2611.42] Please, Lord, enable John to begin healing -[2611.42 --> 2615.36] and to begin a journey of restoration. -[2617.12 --> 2619.16] We want to remember, Lord, too, -[2619.26 --> 2621.80] that Lane Benny has stomach cancer. -[2622.22 --> 2624.82] Please surround him with strength, -[2625.20 --> 2627.96] with comfort, and with healing. -[2628.82 --> 2630.88] And Father, to Leo and Debbie, -[2631.20 --> 2634.96] please provide a great grace of peace, -[2634.96 --> 2637.50] guidance, and courage -[2637.50 --> 2639.18] as they support Lane -[2639.18 --> 2640.52] through his treatments. -[2642.58 --> 2643.66] And finally, Lord, -[2643.82 --> 2648.06] we know that this Christmas season, -[2648.86 --> 2652.12] while it is a delight and a joy -[2652.12 --> 2653.66] and we behold you in wonder, -[2654.30 --> 2656.22] we also know that in a lot of families -[2656.22 --> 2658.68] it brings up, -[2659.84 --> 2661.20] it can be a hard season. -[2661.20 --> 2664.62] So, on the one hand, -[2664.74 --> 2668.60] thank you that we can celebrate this season -[2668.60 --> 2672.82] and for those families that have difficulty, -[2673.28 --> 2675.64] thank you for your grace -[2675.64 --> 2678.66] that has carried them through this year. -[2679.04 --> 2681.94] And we ask that where there are broken relationships, -[2682.52 --> 2685.20] that there may be seeds of healing -[2685.20 --> 2691.78] and conversations and words of love. -[2693.62 --> 2694.06] Finally, -[2695.06 --> 2697.72] we know that gathered here among us, -[2698.42 --> 2700.96] there are a lot of unspoken needs and concerns, -[2701.74 --> 2704.18] and we want to lift those up to you, Lord. -[2704.74 --> 2706.76] And particularly for those of us -[2706.76 --> 2709.00] who would be struggling with sin, -[2709.00 --> 2713.06] where we have a hard time turning to you -[2713.06 --> 2714.40] because we're scared -[2714.40 --> 2719.42] or downcast and discouraged, -[2720.28 --> 2722.74] do not let our hearts grow cold. -[2723.48 --> 2726.38] Continue to work in us -[2726.38 --> 2729.78] and enable us to have the confidence -[2729.78 --> 2732.10] in your promises -[2732.10 --> 2733.84] and in your forgiveness. -[2735.36 --> 2735.68] Amen. -[2739.00 --> 2768.16] If you have a Bible -[2768.16 --> 2769.58] or a device, -[2769.68 --> 2770.88] I want to invite you to turn -[2770.88 --> 2772.86] to Luke 2. -[2775.24 --> 2777.54] Our text this morning is just one verse, -[2777.70 --> 2779.64] but we'll get to that in a second. -[2782.00 --> 2783.20] This Sunday, -[2783.62 --> 2785.96] the Sunday after Christmas, -[2786.96 --> 2788.20] kind of finds us -[2788.20 --> 2791.20] in this in-between place. -[2792.12 --> 2794.62] This sort of moment in the middle, right? -[2795.12 --> 2797.38] Christmas isn't yet finished, -[2797.38 --> 2801.22] and I know some of you still have family plans -[2801.22 --> 2803.00] and things going on even today, -[2803.20 --> 2805.86] but the high point has passed. -[2806.90 --> 2808.48] The lights are still glowing, -[2808.80 --> 2810.78] maybe your decorations are still up, -[2810.86 --> 2811.90] but you've started thinking, -[2812.06 --> 2813.86] when is it time to take them down? -[2816.84 --> 2817.76] And yet, -[2818.34 --> 2821.74] I know that there are some of us as well -[2821.74 --> 2823.68] for whom right now, -[2823.68 --> 2827.16] the quiet feels heavier. -[2828.52 --> 2830.80] Some of us come after Christmas -[2830.80 --> 2832.90] feeling full and grateful, -[2833.52 --> 2835.66] and others come feeling tired -[2835.66 --> 2837.08] and overwhelmed, -[2838.08 --> 2840.78] maybe even a little disappointed -[2840.78 --> 2842.64] and let down. -[2843.10 --> 2845.56] Things didn't go the way we wanted them to. -[2845.56 --> 2848.20] And if that's you, -[2848.78 --> 2850.94] or if you have a sense -[2850.94 --> 2852.66] that that might become you, -[2853.10 --> 2856.42] I want to speak gently to you this morning. -[2857.52 --> 2858.00] Right? -[2858.10 --> 2859.78] For some of us in this moment, -[2859.96 --> 2862.76] Christmas is a reminder of sadness. -[2863.60 --> 2865.40] It's a reminder of who's missing. -[2866.38 --> 2869.22] And it's a feeling that really doesn't fade -[2869.22 --> 2871.10] just because people have started -[2871.10 --> 2872.50] making New Year's Eve plans, -[2872.50 --> 2874.22] and they're moving to the next party, -[2874.46 --> 2875.32] and there you are. -[2877.60 --> 2879.54] Christmas can stir up grief -[2879.54 --> 2880.64] and absence -[2880.64 --> 2882.96] and this deep sense of loneliness. -[2884.82 --> 2886.20] And beneath it all -[2886.20 --> 2887.40] is a question -[2887.40 --> 2889.66] that every one of us -[2889.66 --> 2891.88] kind of has to answer, -[2892.08 --> 2894.04] but rarely asks out loud. -[2894.30 --> 2896.36] We all kind of feel it in this moment. -[2897.32 --> 2898.00] Now what? -[2899.86 --> 2902.36] What has Christmas actually changed? -[2903.48 --> 2905.66] Is anything really different now? -[2907.14 --> 2907.36] Right? -[2907.40 --> 2909.38] Everyone's going back to the same routines, -[2909.60 --> 2910.62] the same responsibilities, -[2910.92 --> 2911.76] the same pressures. -[2912.28 --> 2915.12] Is that really all that happens after Christmas? -[2916.88 --> 2919.56] Or has something deeper -[2919.56 --> 2921.32] actually taken place? -[2922.16 --> 2923.82] Something that doesn't disappear -[2923.82 --> 2924.94] when the music fades -[2924.94 --> 2927.32] or when the decorations go down? -[2927.32 --> 2929.38] This morning, -[2929.68 --> 2931.56] I want to look for us -[2931.56 --> 2932.66] and with us -[2932.66 --> 2934.32] at a short verse, -[2934.42 --> 2935.54] actually a phrase -[2935.54 --> 2937.92] within that short verse. -[2939.14 --> 2939.98] Luke 2, -[2940.36 --> 2941.68] as many of you -[2941.68 --> 2942.76] no doubt are aware, -[2942.90 --> 2943.78] is the story -[2943.78 --> 2945.58] of the birth of Jesus. -[2945.58 --> 2948.26] Because of the census, -[2948.68 --> 2949.88] Joseph took his family -[2949.88 --> 2950.82] to Bethlehem. -[2951.24 --> 2951.86] While there, -[2952.06 --> 2953.16] the baby is born -[2953.16 --> 2954.52] and there are shepherds -[2954.52 --> 2956.00] out in a field nearby -[2956.00 --> 2957.56] and a host of angels -[2957.56 --> 2958.60] appear to them, -[2958.98 --> 2960.04] tell them about the birth -[2960.04 --> 2960.64] of the Savior, -[2960.84 --> 2961.64] about the Messiah. -[2961.96 --> 2962.82] They rush off -[2962.82 --> 2963.66] to find him -[2963.66 --> 2964.42] and his parents -[2964.42 --> 2965.62] just as they were told -[2965.62 --> 2967.20] laying in a manger. -[2967.44 --> 2968.44] And then they left -[2968.44 --> 2969.54] telling everyone -[2969.54 --> 2970.66] what they had heard -[2970.66 --> 2971.28] and seen. -[2971.28 --> 2971.96] And we read -[2971.96 --> 2973.04] that Mary treasured -[2973.04 --> 2973.96] up all these things -[2973.96 --> 2974.60] in her heart. -[2974.74 --> 2975.24] And then, -[2975.72 --> 2976.40] verse 20, -[2977.76 --> 2979.18] the shepherds returned, -[2980.32 --> 2982.10] glorifying and praising God -[2982.10 --> 2983.22] for all the things -[2983.22 --> 2984.48] that they had heard -[2984.48 --> 2985.38] and seen, -[2985.76 --> 2986.70] which was just -[2986.70 --> 2988.52] as they had been told. -[2989.96 --> 2990.62] This is the word -[2990.62 --> 2991.04] of the Lord. -[2993.64 --> 2994.62] Luke 2, -[2994.84 --> 2995.48] 20, -[2996.06 --> 2996.70] answers -[2996.70 --> 2998.08] the now what -[2998.08 --> 2998.80] question, -[2999.38 --> 3000.44] the after Christmas -[3000.44 --> 3001.30] question, -[3001.54 --> 3002.60] with a single -[3002.60 --> 3004.84] unassuming word. -[3006.06 --> 3007.00] The shepherds -[3007.00 --> 3008.66] returned. -[3010.56 --> 3011.56] They returned. -[3012.94 --> 3013.96] Now, Luke doesn't tell us -[3013.96 --> 3014.60] how they felt. -[3015.76 --> 3016.56] He doesn't tell us -[3016.56 --> 3017.88] how long the wonder -[3017.88 --> 3018.68] lasted -[3018.68 --> 3020.52] or whether the whole night -[3020.52 --> 3021.82] stayed magical. -[3022.20 --> 3023.10] All he tells us -[3023.10 --> 3024.12] is that they returned. -[3025.48 --> 3026.90] And in that small -[3026.90 --> 3028.54] unassuming word, -[3028.84 --> 3029.94] Luke shows us, -[3029.94 --> 3030.64] I think, -[3030.72 --> 3031.78] what comes next -[3031.78 --> 3033.26] after God shows up. -[3034.46 --> 3035.88] That single word, -[3036.16 --> 3036.54] returned, -[3036.86 --> 3038.46] carries an incredible -[3038.46 --> 3039.56] amount of weight. -[3040.60 --> 3041.78] And it teaches us -[3041.78 --> 3042.62] that the good news -[3042.62 --> 3043.18] of Christmas -[3043.18 --> 3044.08] does not end -[3044.08 --> 3045.72] with everything stable, -[3046.10 --> 3047.60] but in returning -[3047.60 --> 3048.42] to the ordinary. -[3050.00 --> 3050.92] What I would like -[3050.92 --> 3052.00] to do with you -[3052.00 --> 3052.60] this Sunday -[3052.60 --> 3053.52] after Christmas -[3053.52 --> 3055.12] is to plumb -[3055.12 --> 3055.88] the depths -[3055.88 --> 3057.50] of that little phrase, -[3057.50 --> 3058.74] the shepherds -[3058.74 --> 3059.26] returned, -[3060.06 --> 3061.24] and to see -[3061.24 --> 3062.42] how it reshapes -[3062.42 --> 3063.18] our understanding -[3063.18 --> 3063.72] of faith -[3063.72 --> 3064.74] and worship -[3064.74 --> 3066.32] and even ordinary life -[3066.32 --> 3067.60] after God -[3067.60 --> 3068.36] has come near. -[3069.70 --> 3070.62] Let's start -[3070.62 --> 3071.72] with our first -[3071.72 --> 3072.78] idea. -[3073.34 --> 3073.92] The first idea -[3073.92 --> 3074.62] is that Christmas -[3074.62 --> 3076.06] doesn't end -[3076.06 --> 3077.16] with everything -[3077.16 --> 3078.28] stable. -[3079.64 --> 3081.10] Christmas doesn't end -[3081.10 --> 3081.82] with everything -[3081.82 --> 3082.36] stable, -[3082.48 --> 3083.54] and this is -[3083.54 --> 3084.22] good news. -[3084.22 --> 3086.58] Luke tells us -[3086.58 --> 3087.28] that the shepherds -[3087.28 --> 3087.72] returned, -[3088.38 --> 3089.64] and honestly, -[3090.00 --> 3091.22] maybe that's -[3091.22 --> 3091.96] a little disappointing -[3091.96 --> 3092.60] to you. -[3093.78 --> 3094.88] After the angels, -[3095.04 --> 3095.76] after the glory, -[3095.90 --> 3096.72] after the good news -[3096.72 --> 3097.40] of great joy, -[3097.54 --> 3098.20] after standing -[3098.20 --> 3099.56] before the Christ child, -[3100.62 --> 3101.36] maybe we want -[3101.36 --> 3102.08] a little bit more. -[3103.56 --> 3104.12] But Luke doesn't -[3104.12 --> 3104.70] give us that. -[3105.38 --> 3106.16] He doesn't tell us -[3106.16 --> 3106.92] that the shepherds -[3106.92 --> 3107.94] escaped their -[3107.94 --> 3109.00] ordinary lives, -[3109.14 --> 3110.00] that they went on -[3110.00 --> 3110.98] to do great things -[3110.98 --> 3112.06] and become great people. -[3112.30 --> 3113.04] He tells us -[3113.04 --> 3114.00] that they went back -[3114.00 --> 3115.28] to their ordinary -[3115.28 --> 3115.76] lives. -[3116.72 --> 3117.52] They return -[3117.52 --> 3118.42] to the same fields, -[3118.60 --> 3119.64] to the same night air, -[3119.74 --> 3120.52] to the same work, -[3120.68 --> 3122.28] to the same responsibilities. -[3122.44 --> 3123.46] There's no indication -[3123.46 --> 3125.30] that their circumstances -[3125.30 --> 3126.10] changed. -[3127.54 --> 3128.44] There's no promotion. -[3129.06 --> 3130.06] There's no relief -[3130.06 --> 3130.88] from the hardship -[3130.88 --> 3131.66] of their life. -[3131.86 --> 3132.80] There's no permanent -[3132.80 --> 3133.80] spiritual high -[3133.80 --> 3134.48] that lifts them -[3134.48 --> 3135.48] above the realities -[3135.48 --> 3136.76] of life beyond -[3136.76 --> 3137.28] the moment -[3137.28 --> 3137.74] that they have -[3137.74 --> 3138.40] just witnessed. -[3138.80 --> 3140.10] Christmas doesn't -[3140.10 --> 3141.06] rescue them -[3141.06 --> 3142.38] from ordinary -[3142.38 --> 3143.48] existence. -[3144.00 --> 3147.30] And that, -[3147.72 --> 3148.72] Luke suggests, -[3149.54 --> 3151.06] is not the failure -[3151.06 --> 3152.30] of the story. -[3153.20 --> 3154.24] It's the point -[3154.24 --> 3154.84] of the story. -[3156.48 --> 3157.68] Because if Christmas -[3157.68 --> 3158.80] only mattered -[3158.80 --> 3160.02] in the stable, -[3160.42 --> 3161.64] if it only worked -[3161.64 --> 3162.88] in moments of wonder -[3162.88 --> 3163.98] and of holiness, -[3164.26 --> 3165.62] then it would collapse -[3165.62 --> 3166.86] the moment we step -[3166.86 --> 3167.90] back into real life. -[3167.90 --> 3169.82] If the gospel -[3169.82 --> 3171.38] required sustained -[3171.38 --> 3172.68] emotional intensity -[3172.68 --> 3174.70] and uninterrupted peace -[3174.70 --> 3175.62] and dramatically -[3175.62 --> 3177.02] changed circumstances, -[3177.02 --> 3178.72] it would be unbearable -[3178.72 --> 3179.88] for most of us. -[3180.72 --> 3181.88] But especially -[3181.88 --> 3182.58] for those of us -[3182.58 --> 3183.52] who are carrying grief, -[3184.66 --> 3185.68] especially for those -[3185.68 --> 3186.36] of us who are living -[3186.36 --> 3187.04] in disappointment -[3187.04 --> 3188.48] and exhaustion, -[3189.60 --> 3190.56] Luke instead -[3190.56 --> 3191.62] shows us -[3191.62 --> 3192.66] something stronger, -[3193.42 --> 3194.54] something sturdier. -[3194.54 --> 3196.04] Christmas doesn't -[3196.04 --> 3197.60] remove the shepherds -[3197.60 --> 3198.60] from reality. -[3198.92 --> 3199.36] Christmas -[3199.36 --> 3200.72] reinterprets -[3200.72 --> 3201.44] reality. -[3202.40 --> 3202.94] The fields -[3202.94 --> 3203.72] don't disappear, -[3204.22 --> 3205.34] they are returned -[3205.34 --> 3205.70] to, -[3205.80 --> 3206.68] and they are returned -[3206.68 --> 3208.30] to with a new -[3208.30 --> 3209.04] orientation, -[3209.26 --> 3210.34] a new perspective, -[3210.48 --> 3211.22] a new weight -[3211.22 --> 3212.02] of meaning -[3212.02 --> 3213.52] because God -[3213.52 --> 3214.58] has come near. -[3214.58 --> 3217.22] This is good news -[3217.22 --> 3217.72] for us. -[3217.84 --> 3218.54] It means that -[3218.54 --> 3219.96] the truth of Christmas -[3219.96 --> 3220.90] doesn't depend -[3220.90 --> 3221.88] on how long -[3221.88 --> 3223.12] the music lasts -[3223.12 --> 3224.50] or how strong -[3224.50 --> 3225.28] your feelings -[3225.28 --> 3226.56] about it might be, -[3226.86 --> 3227.04] right, -[3227.06 --> 3227.72] or how quickly -[3227.72 --> 3228.94] your life improves. -[3229.94 --> 3230.78] It means that -[3230.78 --> 3231.26] when the lights -[3231.26 --> 3231.88] come down -[3231.88 --> 3232.64] and the routines -[3232.64 --> 3233.52] return, -[3233.82 --> 3234.44] that Christmas -[3234.44 --> 3235.44] hasn't failed -[3235.44 --> 3236.84] but has begun -[3236.84 --> 3238.50] a deeper work. -[3239.72 --> 3240.46] The gospel -[3240.46 --> 3241.20] doesn't promise -[3241.20 --> 3242.18] escape from -[3242.18 --> 3243.28] ordinary life, -[3243.30 --> 3243.96] it promises -[3243.96 --> 3245.12] God's presence -[3245.12 --> 3246.10] in the midst -[3246.10 --> 3247.22] of ordinary life. -[3250.46 --> 3251.52] Most of us -[3251.52 --> 3252.30] might know -[3252.30 --> 3252.80] the feeling -[3252.80 --> 3253.72] of coming home -[3253.72 --> 3255.84] after a good trip, -[3256.10 --> 3257.44] an excellent vacation. -[3258.10 --> 3258.72] The bags -[3258.72 --> 3259.26] are still -[3259.26 --> 3260.00] by the door, -[3260.18 --> 3260.66] the pictures -[3260.66 --> 3261.26] are still -[3261.26 --> 3261.98] on our phones, -[3262.08 --> 3262.56] we haven't even -[3262.56 --> 3263.04] had a chance -[3263.04 --> 3263.98] to upload them -[3263.98 --> 3265.34] to Instagram yet, -[3265.50 --> 3267.42] but the alarm -[3267.42 --> 3267.98] is set -[3267.98 --> 3269.38] for tomorrow morning -[3269.38 --> 3271.12] and you've already -[3271.12 --> 3271.86] glimpsed at your -[3271.86 --> 3273.00] work emails -[3273.00 --> 3273.56] and you know -[3273.56 --> 3274.18] that your inbox -[3274.18 --> 3274.64] is full. -[3276.18 --> 3277.10] A good vacation -[3277.10 --> 3278.22] can refresh you -[3278.22 --> 3279.34] but it can't -[3279.34 --> 3280.40] replace your life. -[3282.14 --> 3282.58] Christmas, -[3282.86 --> 3283.66] if we misunderstand -[3283.66 --> 3284.32] it, -[3284.36 --> 3285.28] can feel like that. -[3285.32 --> 3286.42] A beautiful interruption -[3286.42 --> 3287.36] that we enjoy -[3287.36 --> 3288.48] and then we have -[3288.48 --> 3289.16] to leave behind. -[3291.34 --> 3292.20] But Christmas, -[3292.52 --> 3293.06] the way Luke -[3293.06 --> 3294.00] is describing it here, -[3294.20 --> 3295.32] isn't a getaway. -[3295.58 --> 3296.24] The shepherds -[3296.24 --> 3297.26] do not return -[3297.26 --> 3298.24] because the magic -[3298.24 --> 3299.04] wore off, -[3299.20 --> 3299.90] the shepherds -[3299.90 --> 3300.64] return because -[3300.64 --> 3301.94] God has met them -[3301.94 --> 3302.76] in a way -[3302.76 --> 3303.72] that they now -[3303.72 --> 3305.04] carry with them. -[3306.24 --> 3306.88] Christmas isn't -[3306.88 --> 3307.40] this break -[3307.40 --> 3308.32] from reality. -[3308.90 --> 3309.48] God breaking -[3309.48 --> 3310.50] into the world -[3310.50 --> 3311.52] isn't a pause -[3311.52 --> 3312.32] on what's happening -[3312.32 --> 3313.14] but it is -[3313.14 --> 3314.06] what's happening. -[3314.16 --> 3314.74] It's the moment -[3314.74 --> 3315.50] that reality -[3315.50 --> 3316.80] begins to be told -[3316.80 --> 3318.30] with a new truth. -[3319.20 --> 3319.60] Christmas -[3319.60 --> 3320.62] transforms -[3320.62 --> 3322.46] your reality. -[3324.52 --> 3325.40] Which then -[3325.40 --> 3326.06] takes us -[3326.06 --> 3327.80] to the second point, -[3327.88 --> 3328.02] right? -[3328.02 --> 3328.62] The shepherds -[3328.62 --> 3329.88] returned to their fields, -[3329.98 --> 3331.22] to their ordinary life -[3331.22 --> 3332.78] with a new song -[3332.78 --> 3333.60] on their hearts. -[3334.26 --> 3335.40] They returned -[3335.40 --> 3336.50] glorifying -[3336.50 --> 3337.76] and praising -[3337.76 --> 3338.78] God. -[3339.84 --> 3340.76] Now that matters -[3340.76 --> 3342.80] because praise -[3342.80 --> 3344.42] in this moment -[3344.42 --> 3345.76] is not denial -[3345.76 --> 3347.32] and it's not -[3347.32 --> 3347.96] distraction, -[3348.32 --> 3349.34] right? -[3349.38 --> 3349.94] The shepherds -[3349.94 --> 3351.14] aren't praising God -[3351.14 --> 3352.54] because their fields -[3352.54 --> 3353.80] have become easier, -[3354.18 --> 3354.90] the sheep -[3354.90 --> 3355.94] are getting lost -[3355.94 --> 3356.94] less often, -[3356.94 --> 3357.70] the work -[3357.70 --> 3358.76] has not disappeared. -[3359.22 --> 3359.58] They're not -[3359.58 --> 3360.44] praising God -[3360.44 --> 3361.28] because the world -[3361.28 --> 3362.28] suddenly feels -[3362.28 --> 3363.86] safe and predictable, -[3364.26 --> 3365.16] they're praising -[3365.16 --> 3366.34] God -[3366.34 --> 3367.26] because they have -[3367.26 --> 3368.78] seen their God, -[3368.88 --> 3369.52] they have met -[3369.52 --> 3370.56] their Messiah -[3370.56 --> 3371.64] and their Savior. -[3372.12 --> 3373.36] Praising and glorifying -[3373.36 --> 3374.48] is a new way -[3374.48 --> 3375.28] of inhabiting -[3375.28 --> 3376.06] the same -[3376.06 --> 3377.52] ordinary life. -[3378.58 --> 3379.22] The fields -[3379.22 --> 3379.96] are still dark, -[3380.06 --> 3380.42] the work -[3380.42 --> 3381.22] is still hard, -[3381.50 --> 3382.12] the world -[3382.12 --> 3382.90] in this moment -[3382.90 --> 3383.72] is still ruled -[3383.72 --> 3384.40] by Rome, -[3384.58 --> 3385.52] Herod is still -[3385.52 --> 3386.90] raging on his -[3386.90 --> 3388.52] throne in Judea, -[3388.72 --> 3389.58] nothing about -[3389.58 --> 3390.26] the external -[3390.26 --> 3391.72] situation has changed -[3391.72 --> 3392.44] and yet -[3392.44 --> 3393.24] everything -[3393.24 --> 3394.64] has changed -[3394.64 --> 3396.46] because God -[3396.46 --> 3397.04] has shown up, -[3397.76 --> 3398.48] God has shown -[3398.48 --> 3399.08] himself to be -[3399.08 --> 3399.44] faithful, -[3400.20 --> 3401.26] God has proved -[3401.26 --> 3402.14] his promises -[3402.14 --> 3403.08] true, -[3403.22 --> 3403.96] he has kept -[3403.96 --> 3404.62] his word, -[3404.72 --> 3405.36] he's promised -[3405.36 --> 3406.72] and he has done -[3406.72 --> 3408.04] exactly what -[3408.04 --> 3409.06] he promised. -[3410.48 --> 3411.48] This is the -[3411.48 --> 3412.40] difference between -[3412.40 --> 3413.50] what we can call -[3413.50 --> 3414.60] Christmas praise -[3414.60 --> 3416.24] and mere -[3416.24 --> 3416.92] optimism. -[3418.28 --> 3418.38] Right, -[3418.50 --> 3419.64] optimism depends -[3419.64 --> 3420.40] on your -[3420.40 --> 3421.18] circumstances -[3421.18 --> 3421.94] improving. -[3423.54 --> 3424.68] Praise rests -[3424.68 --> 3425.56] on God -[3425.56 --> 3426.36] revealing himself -[3426.36 --> 3427.06] to be trustworthy -[3427.06 --> 3429.68] and the shepherds -[3429.68 --> 3431.02] praise and glorify -[3431.02 --> 3432.08] not because their -[3432.08 --> 3432.98] lives are easier -[3432.98 --> 3433.78] but because their -[3433.78 --> 3434.78] lives now make -[3434.78 --> 3436.20] a new sense -[3436.20 --> 3438.36] in light of -[3438.36 --> 3438.82] what God -[3438.82 --> 3439.46] has done -[3439.46 --> 3440.90] in this moment -[3440.90 --> 3442.02] and this praise -[3442.02 --> 3443.10] doesn't float -[3443.10 --> 3444.62] above reality -[3444.62 --> 3445.96] disconnected to it, -[3446.00 --> 3447.10] it settles into it. -[3447.52 --> 3447.84] Right, -[3447.88 --> 3448.78] it doesn't erase -[3448.78 --> 3450.44] sorrow or fatigue -[3450.44 --> 3451.34] or fear, -[3451.54 --> 3452.78] it doesn't take away -[3452.78 --> 3453.78] grief but rather -[3453.78 --> 3454.72] it carries -[3454.72 --> 3455.46] them. -[3456.38 --> 3457.26] It gives weight -[3457.26 --> 3458.32] and meaning -[3458.32 --> 3459.64] in the presence -[3459.64 --> 3460.34] of a faithful -[3460.34 --> 3460.78] God. -[3461.98 --> 3462.88] In your grief, -[3463.28 --> 3464.00] praise. -[3465.00 --> 3466.36] In your wonder, -[3466.92 --> 3467.40] glorify. -[3467.62 --> 3468.46] In your questioning, -[3469.04 --> 3469.32] worship. -[3469.32 --> 3470.76] In your deconstruction, -[3471.16 --> 3471.42] pray. -[3471.62 --> 3472.44] In your work -[3472.44 --> 3473.76] and in your worry, -[3473.96 --> 3474.68] sing praises -[3474.68 --> 3475.46] to God. -[3475.60 --> 3476.42] Worship is not -[3476.42 --> 3477.04] what happens -[3477.04 --> 3477.92] only in that -[3477.92 --> 3479.00] moment of -[3479.00 --> 3479.60] revelation -[3479.60 --> 3481.22] or only here -[3481.22 --> 3482.04] on Sundays. -[3482.54 --> 3483.42] Worship follows -[3483.42 --> 3484.02] us back -[3484.02 --> 3484.94] into ordinary -[3484.94 --> 3485.72] life -[3485.72 --> 3487.14] once God -[3487.14 --> 3487.72] has made -[3487.72 --> 3488.48] himself known. -[3489.30 --> 3490.46] All of life -[3490.46 --> 3491.86] becomes worship -[3491.86 --> 3493.18] because God -[3493.18 --> 3493.84] has entered -[3493.84 --> 3494.80] into all -[3494.80 --> 3495.40] of life. -[3497.70 --> 3498.66] Which then is -[3498.66 --> 3499.84] the third step -[3499.84 --> 3500.32] of this -[3500.32 --> 3501.32] argument -[3501.32 --> 3501.84] that I'm -[3501.84 --> 3502.80] building for you. -[3502.88 --> 3503.38] The shepherds -[3503.38 --> 3504.54] returned glorifying -[3504.54 --> 3505.02] and praising -[3505.02 --> 3505.46] God -[3505.46 --> 3506.28] for all -[3506.28 --> 3506.62] that they -[3506.62 --> 3507.18] had seen -[3507.18 --> 3508.12] just as -[3508.12 --> 3508.74] they had -[3508.74 --> 3509.58] been told. -[3510.80 --> 3511.30] Returning -[3511.30 --> 3512.42] to the -[3512.42 --> 3513.02] ordinary -[3513.02 --> 3513.90] rests -[3513.90 --> 3514.94] on the -[3514.94 --> 3515.46] reliability -[3515.46 --> 3517.18] of God. -[3519.58 --> 3520.90] That phrase -[3520.90 --> 3522.26] just as -[3522.26 --> 3522.62] they had -[3522.62 --> 3523.36] been told -[3523.36 --> 3524.38] tells us -[3524.38 --> 3524.94] where the -[3524.94 --> 3525.80] weight -[3525.80 --> 3526.62] of their -[3526.62 --> 3527.52] praise -[3527.52 --> 3528.32] actually -[3528.32 --> 3529.62] rests. -[3531.50 --> 3531.74] Their -[3531.74 --> 3532.12] worship -[3532.12 --> 3532.60] isn't -[3532.60 --> 3532.94] grounded -[3532.94 --> 3533.78] in novelty. -[3535.02 --> 3535.26] Their -[3535.26 --> 3535.60] worship -[3535.60 --> 3536.00] isn't -[3536.00 --> 3536.64] sustained -[3536.64 --> 3537.12] by -[3537.12 --> 3537.66] a -[3537.66 --> 3537.98] peaked -[3537.98 --> 3538.62] emotion. -[3539.74 --> 3539.88] Their -[3539.88 --> 3540.24] worship -[3540.24 --> 3540.72] isn't -[3540.72 --> 3541.24] dependent -[3541.24 --> 3541.90] upon -[3541.90 --> 3542.36] a -[3542.36 --> 3542.84] particular -[3542.84 --> 3543.56] atmosphere. -[3544.26 --> 3544.40] Their -[3544.40 --> 3544.82] worship -[3544.82 --> 3546.64] is -[3546.64 --> 3547.50] built -[3547.50 --> 3548.14] on -[3548.14 --> 3548.60] and -[3548.60 --> 3549.06] comes -[3549.06 --> 3549.48] out -[3549.48 --> 3550.08] of -[3550.08 --> 3550.66] the -[3550.66 --> 3551.38] reliability -[3551.38 --> 3552.66] of -[3552.66 --> 3553.36] God. -[3554.12 --> 3554.48] The -[3554.48 --> 3555.44] immutability -[3555.44 --> 3556.16] of God. -[3556.26 --> 3556.40] The -[3556.40 --> 3557.32] unchanging -[3557.32 --> 3558.84] faithfulness -[3558.84 --> 3559.24] of -[3559.24 --> 3559.94] God. -[3560.04 --> 3560.36] His -[3560.36 --> 3560.90] covenant -[3560.90 --> 3561.60] loyalty -[3561.60 --> 3562.16] to -[3562.16 --> 3562.74] his -[3562.74 --> 3563.20] people -[3563.20 --> 3563.56] and -[3563.56 --> 3563.90] his -[3563.90 --> 3564.48] promises -[3564.48 --> 3565.30] as an -[3565.30 --> 3565.68] expression -[3565.68 --> 3566.42] of his -[3566.42 --> 3567.12] faithfulness -[3567.12 --> 3567.52] to his -[3567.52 --> 3567.90] own -[3567.90 --> 3568.74] identity -[3568.74 --> 3569.40] and -[3569.40 --> 3569.76] being. -[3570.60 --> 3570.88] The -[3570.88 --> 3571.32] shepherds -[3571.32 --> 3571.70] praised -[3571.70 --> 3572.14] God -[3572.14 --> 3572.46] because -[3572.46 --> 3573.14] what they -[3573.14 --> 3573.34] were -[3573.34 --> 3573.86] promised -[3573.86 --> 3574.34] turns -[3574.34 --> 3574.58] out -[3574.58 --> 3574.88] to be -[3574.88 --> 3575.18] true. -[3576.14 --> 3576.36] God -[3576.36 --> 3576.94] spoke -[3576.94 --> 3577.28] and -[3577.28 --> 3577.54] God -[3577.54 --> 3578.04] acted. -[3578.40 --> 3578.50] What -[3578.50 --> 3578.68] the -[3578.68 --> 3579.22] angels -[3579.22 --> 3579.78] announced -[3579.78 --> 3580.24] was not -[3580.24 --> 3580.52] just -[3580.52 --> 3580.88] some -[3580.88 --> 3581.50] symbolic -[3581.50 --> 3582.22] reality -[3582.22 --> 3582.64] or -[3582.64 --> 3582.88] some -[3582.88 --> 3583.82] aspirational -[3583.82 --> 3584.56] goal. -[3584.78 --> 3585.02] It -[3585.02 --> 3585.98] corresponded -[3585.98 --> 3586.30] to -[3586.30 --> 3586.86] the -[3586.86 --> 3587.50] created -[3587.50 --> 3588.06] order. -[3588.60 --> 3588.76] The -[3588.76 --> 3589.12] child -[3589.12 --> 3589.52] was -[3589.52 --> 3589.86] there. -[3589.98 --> 3590.08] The -[3590.08 --> 3590.48] promise -[3590.48 --> 3591.08] was -[3591.08 --> 3591.44] kept. -[3591.56 --> 3591.78] This -[3591.78 --> 3592.10] is -[3592.10 --> 3592.88] real -[3592.88 --> 3593.34] and -[3593.34 --> 3593.84] that's -[3593.84 --> 3594.12] why -[3594.12 --> 3594.40] their -[3594.40 --> 3595.04] praise -[3595.04 --> 3595.30] can -[3595.30 --> 3595.68] follow -[3595.68 --> 3595.92] them -[3595.92 --> 3596.18] back -[3596.18 --> 3596.38] to -[3596.38 --> 3596.56] the -[3596.56 --> 3597.02] fields. -[3598.74 --> 3599.40] It -[3599.40 --> 3599.68] doesn't -[3599.68 --> 3600.18] require -[3600.18 --> 3600.94] angels -[3600.94 --> 3601.58] to -[3601.58 --> 3601.98] remain. -[3602.44 --> 3602.78] It -[3602.78 --> 3603.00] doesn't -[3603.00 --> 3603.40] require -[3603.40 --> 3603.64] the -[3603.64 --> 3603.88] night -[3603.88 --> 3604.10] to -[3604.10 --> 3604.34] stay -[3604.34 --> 3604.62] lit -[3604.62 --> 3604.88] up -[3604.88 --> 3605.44] with -[3605.44 --> 3605.68] the -[3605.68 --> 3606.08] stars. -[3606.30 --> 3606.38] It -[3606.38 --> 3606.66] doesn't -[3606.66 --> 3606.84] even -[3606.84 --> 3607.38] require -[3607.38 --> 3607.72] your -[3607.72 --> 3608.20] feelings -[3608.20 --> 3608.42] to -[3608.42 --> 3608.68] stay -[3608.68 --> 3609.54] elevated. -[3609.54 --> 3610.18] Praise -[3610.18 --> 3610.94] endures -[3610.94 --> 3611.26] because -[3611.26 --> 3611.70] God -[3611.70 --> 3612.40] himself -[3612.40 --> 3613.72] is -[3613.72 --> 3614.14] faithful. -[3615.48 --> 3616.14] This -[3616.14 --> 3616.44] is the -[3616.44 --> 3617.14] reality -[3617.14 --> 3617.82] defining -[3617.82 --> 3618.48] grace -[3618.48 --> 3619.20] that we -[3619.20 --> 3619.76] are in -[3619.76 --> 3619.92] the -[3619.92 --> 3620.14] midst -[3620.14 --> 3620.44] of. -[3620.54 --> 3620.82] Christmas -[3620.82 --> 3621.30] isn't -[3621.30 --> 3621.68] simply -[3621.68 --> 3621.96] a -[3621.96 --> 3622.42] story -[3622.42 --> 3622.72] that -[3622.72 --> 3623.12] moves -[3623.12 --> 3623.44] our -[3623.44 --> 3623.90] hearts. -[3624.24 --> 3624.52] It's -[3624.52 --> 3624.66] a -[3624.66 --> 3625.10] divine -[3625.10 --> 3625.56] act -[3625.56 --> 3625.82] of -[3625.82 --> 3626.22] God -[3626.22 --> 3626.64] that -[3626.64 --> 3627.12] confirms -[3627.12 --> 3627.36] a -[3627.36 --> 3627.72] permanent -[3627.72 --> 3628.18] truth -[3628.18 --> 3628.76] about -[3628.76 --> 3628.94] the -[3628.94 --> 3629.16] world. -[3629.26 --> 3629.38] That -[3629.38 --> 3629.76] God -[3629.76 --> 3630.20] keeps -[3630.20 --> 3630.56] his -[3630.56 --> 3631.00] word. -[3631.36 --> 3631.44] That -[3631.44 --> 3631.78] God -[3631.78 --> 3632.14] enters -[3632.14 --> 3632.64] history. -[3632.82 --> 3632.90] That -[3632.90 --> 3633.20] God -[3633.20 --> 3633.66] saves -[3633.66 --> 3633.96] his -[3633.96 --> 3634.70] people. -[3634.90 --> 3635.00] And -[3635.00 --> 3635.34] since -[3635.34 --> 3635.70] that -[3635.70 --> 3635.92] is -[3635.92 --> 3636.36] true, -[3636.36 --> 3637.46] everything -[3637.46 --> 3638.00] else, -[3638.26 --> 3638.96] everything -[3638.96 --> 3639.80] else must -[3639.80 --> 3640.50] be interpreted -[3640.50 --> 3641.54] by that -[3641.54 --> 3642.24] truth. -[3643.20 --> 3643.38] The -[3643.38 --> 3643.82] shepherds' -[3643.90 --> 3644.28] lives are -[3644.28 --> 3644.86] not suddenly -[3644.86 --> 3645.54] easier, -[3645.76 --> 3646.44] but their -[3646.44 --> 3646.98] lives are -[3646.98 --> 3647.42] newly -[3647.42 --> 3648.06] anchored. -[3649.12 --> 3649.48] The -[3649.48 --> 3649.80] world -[3649.80 --> 3650.28] remains -[3650.28 --> 3650.66] as it -[3650.66 --> 3651.02] was, -[3651.14 --> 3651.66] but God -[3651.66 --> 3652.10] is now -[3652.10 --> 3653.16] known as -[3653.16 --> 3653.74] faithful -[3653.74 --> 3654.18] within -[3654.18 --> 3654.44] it. -[3655.90 --> 3656.50] That's -[3656.50 --> 3657.06] why our -[3657.06 --> 3657.48] worship -[3657.48 --> 3657.90] isn't -[3657.90 --> 3658.34] fragile. -[3659.30 --> 3659.70] It -[3659.70 --> 3659.98] doesn't -[3659.98 --> 3660.52] collapse -[3660.52 --> 3660.98] when the -[3660.98 --> 3661.28] feelings -[3661.28 --> 3661.84] fade or -[3661.84 --> 3662.34] when the -[3662.34 --> 3662.92] circumstances -[3662.92 --> 3663.90] disappointment -[3663.90 --> 3664.50] because it's -[3664.50 --> 3665.18] grounded in -[3665.18 --> 3665.74] who God -[3665.74 --> 3666.72] is and -[3666.72 --> 3667.08] what God -[3667.08 --> 3667.52] has done. -[3668.54 --> 3669.02] Our -[3669.02 --> 3669.42] praise -[3669.42 --> 3670.58] moves us -[3670.58 --> 3670.88] from -[3670.88 --> 3671.60] needing -[3671.60 --> 3672.26] the right -[3672.26 --> 3672.80] mood -[3672.80 --> 3673.96] to having -[3673.96 --> 3674.44] the right -[3674.44 --> 3675.16] metaphysics. -[3675.76 --> 3676.44] Or to put it -[3676.44 --> 3676.86] another way, -[3676.98 --> 3678.42] from feeling -[3678.42 --> 3680.00] to reality -[3680.00 --> 3680.90] itself -[3680.90 --> 3681.54] being -[3681.54 --> 3682.48] redefined -[3682.48 --> 3683.08] by God's -[3683.08 --> 3683.48] actions. -[3686.62 --> 3686.96] So, -[3687.66 --> 3690.40] as we -[3690.40 --> 3690.80] dig into -[3690.80 --> 3691.46] this word -[3691.46 --> 3692.26] returned, -[3692.90 --> 3693.44] we've been -[3693.44 --> 3694.14] forming a -[3694.14 --> 3694.66] sort of -[3694.66 --> 3695.84] three-step -[3695.84 --> 3696.66] argument, -[3696.86 --> 3697.00] right? -[3697.12 --> 3697.46] God's -[3697.46 --> 3698.00] coming -[3698.00 --> 3698.42] doesn't -[3698.42 --> 3699.04] necessarily -[3699.04 --> 3699.74] mean our -[3699.74 --> 3700.42] circumstances -[3700.42 --> 3700.96] change. -[3701.38 --> 3701.86] Ordinary -[3701.86 --> 3702.44] life -[3702.44 --> 3703.36] remains, -[3703.54 --> 3703.92] but it -[3703.92 --> 3704.30] remains -[3704.30 --> 3704.86] with hope. -[3705.96 --> 3706.18] The -[3706.18 --> 3706.52] shepherds -[3706.52 --> 3707.00] went back -[3707.00 --> 3707.36] to -[3707.36 --> 3708.20] routine, -[3708.44 --> 3708.66] yet, -[3708.80 --> 3708.90] in -[3708.90 --> 3709.52] encountering -[3709.52 --> 3709.68] their -[3709.68 --> 3710.10] Messiah -[3710.10 --> 3710.36] and -[3710.36 --> 3710.66] Savior, -[3710.80 --> 3710.92] in -[3710.92 --> 3711.28] seeing -[3711.28 --> 3711.76] God's -[3711.76 --> 3712.24] nearness, -[3712.84 --> 3713.36] that -[3713.36 --> 3714.24] transformed -[3714.24 --> 3715.20] how they -[3715.20 --> 3715.96] see the -[3715.96 --> 3716.60] ordinary. -[3716.84 --> 3716.92] They -[3716.92 --> 3717.78] glorified -[3717.78 --> 3718.56] and praised, -[3718.94 --> 3719.28] and that -[3719.28 --> 3720.18] this praise -[3720.18 --> 3721.08] now is -[3721.08 --> 3721.84] anchored -[3721.84 --> 3722.34] in -[3722.34 --> 3723.00] God's -[3723.00 --> 3723.72] character -[3723.72 --> 3724.64] and his -[3724.64 --> 3725.28] faithfulness, -[3725.36 --> 3725.72] just as -[3725.72 --> 3725.84] they -[3725.84 --> 3726.22] have been -[3726.22 --> 3726.52] told, -[3726.66 --> 3727.06] not in -[3727.06 --> 3727.38] fleeting -[3727.38 --> 3727.90] feelings -[3727.90 --> 3728.30] or in -[3728.30 --> 3728.64] changed -[3728.64 --> 3729.32] circumstances. -[3729.88 --> 3730.06] Now, -[3730.08 --> 3730.26] if we -[3730.26 --> 3730.72] take all -[3730.72 --> 3731.10] of those -[3731.10 --> 3731.44] things -[3731.44 --> 3732.00] together, -[3732.80 --> 3733.98] that means -[3733.98 --> 3734.38] that the -[3734.38 --> 3735.04] good news -[3735.04 --> 3735.66] of Christmas -[3735.66 --> 3736.46] doesn't end -[3736.46 --> 3737.04] with everything -[3737.04 --> 3737.66] stable, -[3737.96 --> 3738.48] but in -[3738.48 --> 3738.92] returning -[3738.92 --> 3739.40] to the -[3739.40 --> 3739.94] ordinary, -[3740.62 --> 3741.28] now -[3741.28 --> 3742.08] turned -[3742.08 --> 3742.96] extraordinary. -[3744.46 --> 3744.76] That's -[3744.76 --> 3745.14] the point -[3745.14 --> 3745.62] of this. -[3746.22 --> 3746.56] The -[3746.56 --> 3746.98] good news -[3746.98 --> 3747.50] of Christmas -[3747.50 --> 3748.14] does not -[3748.14 --> 3748.60] end with -[3748.60 --> 3748.98] everything -[3748.98 --> 3749.58] stable, -[3749.90 --> 3750.40] but in -[3750.40 --> 3750.88] returning -[3750.88 --> 3751.50] to the -[3751.50 --> 3752.04] ordinary, -[3752.04 --> 3752.96] now -[3752.96 --> 3753.54] turned -[3753.54 --> 3754.50] extraordinary. -[3756.90 --> 3757.48] Let me -[3757.48 --> 3757.72] see if I -[3757.72 --> 3758.10] can illustrate -[3758.10 --> 3758.50] this. -[3761.00 --> 3761.56] Consider, -[3762.26 --> 3762.70] if you -[3762.70 --> 3763.04] would, -[3763.32 --> 3764.10] a simple -[3764.10 --> 3764.54] morning -[3764.54 --> 3765.06] routine. -[3765.22 --> 3765.60] Maybe this -[3765.60 --> 3766.10] is familiar -[3766.10 --> 3766.60] to you. -[3767.30 --> 3767.88] A cup -[3767.88 --> 3768.46] of coffee -[3768.46 --> 3770.04] and a few -[3770.04 --> 3770.98] quiet moments -[3770.98 --> 3771.68] with your -[3771.68 --> 3772.48] Bible before -[3772.48 --> 3772.96] the rest -[3772.96 --> 3773.18] of the -[3773.18 --> 3773.78] house wakes -[3773.78 --> 3774.04] up. -[3775.44 --> 3775.92] Now, -[3776.00 --> 3776.22] on the -[3776.22 --> 3776.66] surface, -[3776.82 --> 3777.02] nothing -[3777.02 --> 3777.64] has changed. -[3778.36 --> 3778.78] Right? -[3778.78 --> 3779.12] It's the -[3779.12 --> 3779.34] same -[3779.34 --> 3779.72] chair, -[3779.86 --> 3780.14] it's the -[3780.14 --> 3780.32] same -[3780.32 --> 3780.78] spot -[3780.78 --> 3781.40] at the -[3781.40 --> 3781.64] kitchen -[3781.64 --> 3782.06] table, -[3782.18 --> 3782.54] it's the -[3782.54 --> 3782.82] same -[3782.82 --> 3783.60] well-loved -[3783.60 --> 3784.66] Bible for -[3784.66 --> 3785.10] the last -[3785.10 --> 3785.78] five years -[3785.78 --> 3786.14] of your -[3786.14 --> 3786.52] life. -[3788.06 --> 3788.98] But last -[3788.98 --> 3789.34] night, -[3789.90 --> 3791.62] your doctor -[3791.62 --> 3793.40] called and -[3793.40 --> 3793.74] said the -[3793.74 --> 3794.46] test came -[3794.46 --> 3794.98] back all -[3794.98 --> 3795.28] clear. -[3797.04 --> 3797.84] Or yesterday, -[3798.32 --> 3799.04] your daughter -[3799.04 --> 3799.82] called and -[3799.82 --> 3800.32] said your -[3800.32 --> 3801.10] grandson is -[3801.10 --> 3801.88] coming home -[3801.88 --> 3802.70] for Christmas -[3802.70 --> 3803.32] and wants to -[3803.32 --> 3803.78] talk to you -[3803.78 --> 3804.12] about his -[3804.12 --> 3804.50] newfound -[3804.50 --> 3804.92] faith in -[3804.92 --> 3805.22] Jesus. -[3805.22 --> 3805.36] Jesus, -[3806.08 --> 3807.72] suddenly that -[3807.72 --> 3808.62] ordinary -[3808.62 --> 3809.50] everyday -[3809.50 --> 3811.14] routine feels -[3811.14 --> 3812.02] charged with -[3812.02 --> 3812.74] new meaning -[3812.74 --> 3813.44] and new -[3813.44 --> 3813.92] purpose. -[3815.32 --> 3815.64] Suddenly, -[3815.86 --> 3816.46] every sip -[3816.46 --> 3817.18] of coffee, -[3817.32 --> 3817.86] every line -[3817.86 --> 3818.26] of scripture -[3818.26 --> 3818.92] you read -[3818.92 --> 3819.96] is imbued -[3819.96 --> 3820.72] with awe -[3820.72 --> 3821.48] and gratitude, -[3821.68 --> 3822.12] is imbued -[3822.12 --> 3822.44] with this -[3822.44 --> 3823.62] longing to -[3823.62 --> 3824.08] worship. -[3825.04 --> 3825.80] The same -[3825.80 --> 3826.26] sort of -[3826.26 --> 3827.02] dynamic is -[3827.02 --> 3827.44] at work -[3827.44 --> 3828.34] this morning. -[3829.18 --> 3829.30] Right? -[3829.34 --> 3829.92] The shepherds -[3829.92 --> 3830.82] return to -[3830.82 --> 3831.38] the fields -[3831.38 --> 3832.30] that haven't -[3832.30 --> 3832.86] changed, -[3832.86 --> 3835.90] but in -[3835.90 --> 3836.54] the presence -[3836.54 --> 3837.10] of God -[3837.10 --> 3837.80] in Christ -[3837.80 --> 3838.36] which has -[3838.36 --> 3839.48] redefined -[3839.48 --> 3840.68] their experience -[3840.68 --> 3840.98] of the -[3840.98 --> 3841.36] ordinary. -[3842.32 --> 3843.12] Their work, -[3843.30 --> 3843.80] their night -[3843.80 --> 3844.14] watch, -[3844.24 --> 3844.96] their surroundings -[3844.96 --> 3845.98] are now seen -[3845.98 --> 3846.50] through the -[3846.50 --> 3847.16] lens of -[3847.16 --> 3847.62] God's -[3847.62 --> 3848.36] faithfulness. -[3849.24 --> 3849.86] Life -[3849.86 --> 3850.84] itself isn't -[3850.84 --> 3851.30] magically -[3851.30 --> 3852.06] easier, -[3852.90 --> 3853.52] but it's -[3853.52 --> 3854.24] transformed -[3854.24 --> 3855.14] in -[3855.14 --> 3855.90] significance. -[3856.94 --> 3857.40] Ordinary -[3857.40 --> 3858.12] things are -[3858.12 --> 3859.16] now seen -[3859.16 --> 3860.16] through -[3860.16 --> 3860.96] extraordinary -[3860.96 --> 3862.36] ways because -[3862.36 --> 3863.60] God has -[3863.60 --> 3864.68] come near -[3864.68 --> 3867.16] because we -[3867.16 --> 3867.56] have seen -[3867.56 --> 3868.24] his glory, -[3868.74 --> 3869.52] the glory -[3869.52 --> 3869.78] of the -[3869.78 --> 3870.04] one and -[3870.04 --> 3870.50] only Son -[3870.50 --> 3871.00] come from -[3871.00 --> 3871.42] the Father -[3871.42 --> 3872.38] full of -[3872.38 --> 3873.22] grace and -[3873.22 --> 3873.58] truth. -[3875.86 --> 3876.12] Now, -[3876.44 --> 3878.36] what does -[3878.36 --> 3878.64] this mean -[3878.64 --> 3878.94] for who -[3878.94 --> 3879.54] God is -[3879.54 --> 3879.98] and what -[3879.98 --> 3880.44] God has -[3880.44 --> 3880.76] done? -[3882.50 --> 3882.88] It means -[3882.88 --> 3883.26] that God -[3883.26 --> 3884.04] doesn't merely -[3884.04 --> 3884.90] visit the -[3884.90 --> 3885.60] extraordinary, -[3886.18 --> 3886.70] he meets -[3886.70 --> 3887.48] the ordinary -[3887.48 --> 3889.06] and in -[3889.06 --> 3889.50] meeting the -[3889.50 --> 3889.84] ordinary, -[3890.18 --> 3891.38] he sanctifies -[3891.38 --> 3892.12] it by -[3892.12 --> 3892.82] his presence. -[3893.76 --> 3894.58] The shepherds -[3894.58 --> 3895.76] returned changed -[3895.76 --> 3896.32] because the -[3896.32 --> 3897.02] child they -[3897.02 --> 3897.74] saw would -[3897.74 --> 3898.68] one day -[3898.68 --> 3899.36] walk those -[3899.36 --> 3900.18] same ordinary -[3900.18 --> 3900.86] roads that -[3900.86 --> 3901.30] they walked. -[3901.36 --> 3901.60] He would -[3901.60 --> 3902.08] one day -[3902.08 --> 3903.20] return again -[3903.20 --> 3903.66] and again -[3903.66 --> 3904.04] to these -[3904.04 --> 3904.96] same ordinary -[3904.96 --> 3905.74] places and -[3905.74 --> 3906.94] finally he -[3906.94 --> 3907.54] would end -[3907.54 --> 3908.32] his life -[3908.32 --> 3909.14] on a cross. -[3910.64 --> 3911.46] Jesus doesn't -[3911.46 --> 3912.36] simply share -[3912.36 --> 3913.06] our life, -[3913.16 --> 3913.72] he takes -[3913.72 --> 3914.64] our place. -[3915.90 --> 3916.26] The same -[3916.26 --> 3917.00] Christ who -[3917.00 --> 3918.20] lies in a -[3918.20 --> 3918.78] manger would -[3918.78 --> 3919.22] one day -[3919.22 --> 3919.94] return to -[3919.94 --> 3920.72] Jerusalem not -[3920.72 --> 3921.58] to be praised -[3921.58 --> 3922.28] but to be -[3922.28 --> 3923.22] rejected so -[3923.22 --> 3923.78] that ordinary -[3923.78 --> 3924.46] sinners like -[3924.46 --> 3925.08] you and me -[3925.08 --> 3925.46] could be -[3925.46 --> 3926.70] justified by -[3926.70 --> 3927.42] God's grace. -[3928.06 --> 3928.82] God enters -[3928.82 --> 3929.40] the world -[3929.40 --> 3930.12] at Christmas -[3930.12 --> 3931.42] so that he -[3931.42 --> 3932.04] could do -[3932.04 --> 3932.66] what we -[3932.66 --> 3933.12] can't. -[3934.06 --> 3934.90] Jesus lives -[3934.90 --> 3935.62] the life I -[3935.62 --> 3935.94] should have -[3935.94 --> 3936.48] lived and he -[3936.48 --> 3937.04] dies the -[3937.04 --> 3937.74] death that -[3937.74 --> 3938.28] I deserved. -[3938.42 --> 3939.08] Our ordinary -[3939.08 --> 3939.84] is turned -[3939.84 --> 3940.44] extraordinary -[3940.44 --> 3941.74] because of -[3941.74 --> 3942.68] the extraordinary -[3942.68 --> 3943.96] grace of -[3943.96 --> 3944.30] God. -[3945.40 --> 3946.02] The good -[3946.02 --> 3946.96] news of -[3946.96 --> 3948.40] after Christmas -[3948.40 --> 3950.14] meets us -[3950.14 --> 3951.06] in the -[3951.06 --> 3952.00] ordinary -[3952.00 --> 3953.90] things and -[3953.90 --> 3954.68] ways of -[3954.68 --> 3955.48] life and -[3955.48 --> 3957.12] secures our -[3957.12 --> 3958.10] worship in -[3958.10 --> 3958.84] those moments -[3958.84 --> 3959.84] not in -[3959.84 --> 3961.04] sentiment or -[3961.04 --> 3961.82] in nostalgia -[3961.82 --> 3963.70] but in the -[3963.70 --> 3964.70] finished and -[3964.70 --> 3965.92] completed work -[3965.92 --> 3966.68] of Christ. -[3967.94 --> 3968.52] Worship -[3968.52 --> 3969.38] becomes the -[3969.38 --> 3970.34] natural response -[3970.34 --> 3970.94] of hearts -[3970.94 --> 3972.30] anchored in -[3972.30 --> 3972.68] God's -[3972.68 --> 3973.46] faithfulness -[3973.46 --> 3974.38] moving from -[3974.38 --> 3975.10] these fleeting -[3975.10 --> 3976.04] feelings to a -[3976.04 --> 3977.20] reality of -[3977.20 --> 3977.62] what God -[3977.62 --> 3978.28] has accomplished -[3978.28 --> 3979.70] for us in -[3979.70 --> 3980.82] Jesus Christ. -[3982.66 --> 3983.48] So as we -[3983.48 --> 3983.80] think about -[3983.80 --> 3984.16] what comes -[3984.16 --> 3985.14] next I -[3985.14 --> 3985.44] want to -[3985.44 --> 3986.18] invite you -[3986.18 --> 3986.84] for a -[3986.84 --> 3987.32] moment to -[3987.32 --> 3988.42] reflect quietly -[3988.42 --> 3988.90] in your own -[3988.90 --> 3989.24] heart. -[3991.14 --> 3991.74] What does -[3991.74 --> 3993.08] returning look -[3993.08 --> 3994.20] like in -[3994.20 --> 3994.80] your life -[3994.80 --> 3995.34] this next -[3995.34 --> 3995.62] week? -[3997.32 --> 3998.14] Where are -[3998.14 --> 3998.72] you being -[3998.72 --> 3999.44] sent to -[3999.44 --> 4000.44] the ordinary -[4000.44 --> 4001.26] and how -[4001.26 --> 4001.80] might God -[4001.80 --> 4002.38] be present -[4002.38 --> 4002.68] there? -[4004.18 --> 4005.14] Or to put -[4005.14 --> 4005.44] a different -[4005.44 --> 4006.02] spin on it -[4006.02 --> 4006.78] what have -[4006.78 --> 4007.12] you been -[4007.12 --> 4007.58] hoping -[4007.58 --> 4008.06] Christmas -[4008.06 --> 4008.96] would fix -[4008.96 --> 4010.34] that it -[4010.34 --> 4010.74] turns out -[4010.74 --> 4011.34] only Christ -[4011.34 --> 4011.98] can carry? -[4014.12 --> 4014.48] Or where -[4014.48 --> 4014.72] are you -[4014.72 --> 4015.28] tempted to -[4015.28 --> 4016.10] measure God's -[4016.10 --> 4016.74] faithfulness -[4016.74 --> 4017.28] by how you -[4017.28 --> 4018.44] feel rather -[4018.44 --> 4019.08] than by what -[4019.08 --> 4019.72] he has done? -[4021.16 --> 4021.90] Take these -[4021.90 --> 4022.66] questions and -[4022.66 --> 4023.62] prayerfully -[4023.62 --> 4025.42] bring them -[4025.42 --> 4026.86] before the -[4026.86 --> 4027.08] Lord. -[4028.36 --> 4029.10] Notice where -[4029.10 --> 4029.82] you are weary, -[4030.98 --> 4031.66] notice where you -[4031.66 --> 4032.36] are resistant, -[4033.14 --> 4033.60] where you are -[4033.60 --> 4034.48] hesitant to -[4034.48 --> 4035.40] press in, -[4035.68 --> 4036.44] and then take -[4036.44 --> 4037.12] note of where -[4037.12 --> 4037.92] there is a -[4037.92 --> 4038.96] persistent hope -[4038.96 --> 4040.06] in you. -[4041.66 --> 4042.32] I'm not going -[4042.32 --> 4042.82] to give you -[4042.82 --> 4043.92] answers here, -[4044.24 --> 4044.96] I simply want -[4044.96 --> 4045.46] to show you -[4045.46 --> 4045.92] this door. -[4047.02 --> 4047.70] How you choose -[4047.70 --> 4048.32] to walk through -[4048.32 --> 4049.06] it this next -[4049.06 --> 4050.02] week is up -[4050.02 --> 4050.34] to you and -[4050.34 --> 4050.60] God. -[4051.64 --> 4052.52] But if you -[4052.52 --> 4053.00] choose to -[4053.00 --> 4053.46] walk through -[4053.46 --> 4054.72] it, I want -[4054.72 --> 4055.00] to give you -[4055.00 --> 4055.60] some tools -[4055.60 --> 4056.24] for how to -[4056.24 --> 4056.78] sustain it. -[4057.64 --> 4058.42] The shepherds -[4058.42 --> 4059.10] return to their -[4059.10 --> 4060.08] fields and you -[4060.08 --> 4060.68] too are being -[4060.68 --> 4061.38] sent back to -[4061.38 --> 4061.84] your ordinary -[4061.84 --> 4062.86] life, God -[4062.86 --> 4063.58] is not asking -[4063.58 --> 4064.20] you to take -[4064.20 --> 4064.66] on new -[4064.66 --> 4065.88] burdens, he's -[4065.88 --> 4066.88] inviting you to -[4066.88 --> 4067.22] a new -[4067.22 --> 4068.06] attentiveness. -[4069.82 --> 4071.56] So, I'm -[4071.56 --> 4071.84] going to give -[4071.84 --> 4072.88] you four -[4072.88 --> 4074.52] quick ways -[4074.52 --> 4075.18] you can -[4075.18 --> 4076.02] return -[4076.02 --> 4076.92] yourself. -[4078.28 --> 4078.88] First, -[4079.10 --> 4079.66] return -[4079.66 --> 4080.94] prayerfully. -[4082.62 --> 4083.10] What would -[4083.10 --> 4083.80] it look like -[4083.80 --> 4084.60] to pray -[4084.60 --> 4085.24] through your -[4085.24 --> 4086.24] work, through -[4086.24 --> 4087.00] your routines, -[4087.26 --> 4087.62] through your -[4087.62 --> 4088.74] responsibilities each -[4088.74 --> 4088.98] day? -[4090.04 --> 4090.64] Take a -[4090.64 --> 4091.34] moment to -[4091.34 --> 4091.90] name not -[4091.90 --> 4092.56] only what is -[4092.56 --> 4093.60] happening but -[4093.60 --> 4094.96] also what you -[4094.96 --> 4095.88] are afraid of. -[4096.64 --> 4097.04] Take a -[4097.04 --> 4097.54] moment to -[4097.54 --> 4098.14] pray through -[4098.14 --> 4098.52] what you -[4098.52 --> 4099.22] hope for. -[4100.86 --> 4101.42] Return -[4101.42 --> 4102.48] attentively. -[4103.88 --> 4104.50] Ask yourself -[4104.50 --> 4105.00] in prayer, -[4105.18 --> 4105.66] where might -[4105.66 --> 4106.16] God be -[4106.16 --> 4106.78] present in -[4106.78 --> 4107.24] the ordinary -[4107.24 --> 4107.88] moments of -[4107.88 --> 4108.26] your day? -[4108.94 --> 4109.50] In your -[4109.50 --> 4110.12] meals, in -[4110.12 --> 4110.26] your -[4110.26 --> 4110.82] conversations, -[4111.10 --> 4111.40] in your -[4111.40 --> 4112.08] commutes, in -[4112.08 --> 4112.58] your quiet -[4112.58 --> 4113.50] corners of -[4113.50 --> 4114.04] your home, -[4114.32 --> 4114.86] and how -[4114.86 --> 4115.86] could noticing -[4115.86 --> 4117.00] his presence -[4117.00 --> 4118.58] reshape the -[4118.58 --> 4119.52] way you move -[4119.52 --> 4120.08] through these -[4120.08 --> 4120.50] routines? -[4121.34 --> 4124.88] return in -[4124.88 --> 4125.66] community. -[4126.94 --> 4127.20] And so -[4127.20 --> 4128.18] who in -[4128.18 --> 4128.62] the body -[4128.62 --> 4129.22] of Christ, -[4129.28 --> 4129.84] whether this -[4129.84 --> 4130.64] one here or -[4130.64 --> 4131.26] one that you -[4131.26 --> 4131.76] are connected -[4131.76 --> 4132.38] to outside -[4132.38 --> 4133.10] of here, -[4133.46 --> 4133.88] who in -[4133.88 --> 4134.20] the body -[4134.20 --> 4134.62] of Christ -[4134.62 --> 4135.48] might God -[4135.48 --> 4136.04] be asking -[4136.04 --> 4136.44] you to -[4136.44 --> 4137.24] connect with -[4137.24 --> 4137.96] this week, -[4138.38 --> 4139.58] even if -[4139.58 --> 4140.06] your energy -[4140.06 --> 4140.62] is low, -[4141.82 --> 4142.38] even if -[4142.38 --> 4143.02] your enthusiasm -[4143.02 --> 4143.80] is fleeting? -[4144.64 --> 4145.28] How can -[4145.28 --> 4145.84] you share -[4145.84 --> 4146.82] ordinary life -[4146.82 --> 4147.48] together so -[4147.48 --> 4147.94] that faith -[4147.94 --> 4148.68] and encouragement -[4148.68 --> 4149.96] are mutual? -[4151.90 --> 4152.30] Would you -[4152.30 --> 4152.70] take the -[4152.70 --> 4154.34] risk of -[4154.34 --> 4154.90] vulnerability -[4154.90 --> 4156.38] in this -[4156.38 --> 4157.82] moment because -[4157.82 --> 4158.14] of the -[4158.14 --> 4159.90] security of -[4159.90 --> 4160.24] who God -[4160.24 --> 4160.50] is? -[4161.80 --> 4162.38] And then -[4162.38 --> 4162.78] lastly, -[4163.02 --> 4164.12] return with -[4164.12 --> 4165.06] a new or -[4165.06 --> 4165.72] renewed -[4165.72 --> 4166.66] purpose. -[4167.96 --> 4168.26] And how -[4168.26 --> 4169.00] does remembering -[4169.00 --> 4169.94] that God has -[4169.94 --> 4170.36] kept his -[4170.36 --> 4170.96] promises in -[4170.96 --> 4171.76] Christ change -[4171.76 --> 4172.66] the way you -[4172.66 --> 4173.24] approach your -[4173.24 --> 4174.26] ordinary tasks, -[4174.66 --> 4175.46] your relationships, -[4175.80 --> 4176.50] or your week -[4176.50 --> 4176.76] ahead? -[4176.76 --> 4177.58] And what -[4177.58 --> 4178.44] is one way -[4178.44 --> 4178.88] that you -[4178.88 --> 4179.44] can carry -[4179.44 --> 4180.18] this renewed -[4180.18 --> 4180.76] perspective -[4180.76 --> 4181.80] into your -[4181.80 --> 4182.44] daily life? -[4185.74 --> 4186.80] This is not -[4186.80 --> 4187.56] about keeping -[4187.56 --> 4188.54] the Christmas -[4188.54 --> 4189.60] glow alive, -[4190.00 --> 4190.38] all right? -[4191.76 --> 4192.82] This is about -[4192.82 --> 4193.84] trusting that -[4193.84 --> 4194.42] the incarnation -[4194.42 --> 4195.18] of Jesus -[4195.18 --> 4196.42] has already -[4196.42 --> 4197.74] changed everything. -[4198.88 --> 4200.04] Your routines, -[4200.78 --> 4201.54] your ordinary -[4201.54 --> 4202.14] spaces, -[4202.66 --> 4203.38] your work, -[4204.00 --> 4204.74] your relationships, -[4204.74 --> 4204.86] relationships, -[4205.24 --> 4206.34] they are now -[4206.34 --> 4207.78] all imbued -[4207.78 --> 4208.64] with this -[4208.64 --> 4209.70] new meaning -[4209.70 --> 4210.70] because God -[4210.70 --> 4211.34] has come -[4211.34 --> 4212.48] near to -[4212.48 --> 4212.78] you. -[4214.22 --> 4214.72] And so, -[4214.78 --> 4215.00] yes, -[4215.06 --> 4215.66] it's after -[4215.66 --> 4216.12] Christmas, -[4216.12 --> 4217.28] it's time -[4217.28 --> 4217.90] to return -[4217.90 --> 4218.32] to the -[4218.32 --> 4218.82] ordinary, -[4219.38 --> 4220.42] but now -[4220.42 --> 4221.14] we do -[4221.14 --> 4222.28] so in -[4222.28 --> 4222.56] the -[4222.56 --> 4223.36] extraordinary -[4223.36 --> 4224.70] reality -[4224.70 --> 4225.54] defining -[4225.54 --> 4226.90] truth of -[4226.90 --> 4227.26] God's -[4227.26 --> 4227.74] presence -[4227.74 --> 4229.38] and his -[4229.38 --> 4229.88] promise. -[4229.88 --> 4232.64] and that -[4232.64 --> 4233.04] will change -[4233.04 --> 4233.32] what your -[4233.32 --> 4233.78] week looks -[4233.78 --> 4234.08] like. -[4235.24 --> 4235.96] Let's pray -[4235.96 --> 4236.32] together. -[4245.20 --> 4246.00] Lord Jesus, -[4246.14 --> 4246.62] we know -[4246.62 --> 4247.10] that you -[4247.10 --> 4247.72] are here. -[4250.80 --> 4251.70] We know -[4251.70 --> 4252.24] that you -[4252.24 --> 4253.42] have come -[4253.42 --> 4254.06] into this -[4254.06 --> 4254.46] world, -[4255.12 --> 4255.58] that you -[4255.58 --> 4256.02] have taken -[4256.02 --> 4256.78] on flesh, -[4256.78 --> 4258.02] and we -[4258.02 --> 4258.34] know -[4258.34 --> 4259.74] that even -[4259.74 --> 4260.28] though you -[4260.28 --> 4261.30] have lived -[4261.30 --> 4262.08] and died -[4262.08 --> 4262.52] in our -[4262.52 --> 4262.92] place, -[4263.02 --> 4263.60] that even -[4263.60 --> 4264.00] though you -[4264.00 --> 4264.68] have ascended -[4264.68 --> 4265.48] now to the -[4265.48 --> 4266.04] right hand -[4266.04 --> 4266.36] of the -[4266.36 --> 4266.64] Father, -[4266.78 --> 4267.08] that you -[4267.08 --> 4267.52] have sent -[4267.52 --> 4268.24] your Spirit -[4268.24 --> 4269.54] to be with -[4269.54 --> 4270.16] us and -[4270.16 --> 4270.62] to draw -[4270.62 --> 4271.16] us near -[4271.16 --> 4271.62] to you. -[4272.60 --> 4272.96] And we -[4272.96 --> 4273.56] know that -[4273.56 --> 4274.66] in worship -[4274.66 --> 4275.58] our hearts -[4275.58 --> 4276.80] and imaginations -[4276.80 --> 4278.18] ascend into -[4278.18 --> 4278.78] the highest -[4278.78 --> 4279.78] heavens that -[4279.78 --> 4280.32] we might be -[4280.32 --> 4280.88] once again -[4280.88 --> 4281.32] in your -[4281.32 --> 4282.00] presence by -[4282.00 --> 4282.50] the same -[4282.50 --> 4283.12] work of -[4283.12 --> 4283.74] that Spirit. -[4285.18 --> 4285.74] And so -[4285.74 --> 4286.60] transform -[4286.60 --> 4287.16] our -[4287.16 --> 4288.96] imaginations, -[4289.18 --> 4289.58] transform -[4289.58 --> 4290.36] the way -[4290.36 --> 4291.30] we see -[4291.30 --> 4291.94] the world -[4291.94 --> 4293.02] right now. -[4297.60 --> 4298.48] Help us -[4298.48 --> 4298.98] to know, -[4299.24 --> 4299.64] Lord God, -[4300.20 --> 4300.74] that in the -[4300.74 --> 4301.28] ordinary -[4301.28 --> 4302.54] movements -[4302.54 --> 4303.52] of our -[4303.52 --> 4304.12] lives, -[4304.26 --> 4305.60] you are -[4305.60 --> 4305.92] doing -[4305.92 --> 4306.78] extraordinary -[4306.78 --> 4307.56] things, -[4308.56 --> 4309.60] and that -[4309.60 --> 4310.36] your presence -[4310.36 --> 4311.82] is with -[4311.82 --> 4312.26] us. -[4314.70 --> 4315.50] No matter -[4315.50 --> 4316.18] how heavy -[4316.18 --> 4317.08] life may -[4317.08 --> 4317.50] feel, -[4318.70 --> 4319.64] may we -[4319.64 --> 4320.10] rely on -[4320.10 --> 4320.68] your strength. -[4322.08 --> 4322.76] No matter -[4322.76 --> 4323.46] how dark -[4323.46 --> 4324.32] the moments -[4324.32 --> 4325.16] may seem, -[4326.38 --> 4326.96] may we -[4326.96 --> 4327.68] look to -[4327.68 --> 4328.44] you for -[4328.44 --> 4328.86] light. -[4330.54 --> 4331.20] And no matter -[4331.20 --> 4332.66] how confused -[4332.66 --> 4333.40] the world -[4333.40 --> 4334.08] may seem, -[4335.14 --> 4335.88] may we -[4335.88 --> 4336.30] turn to -[4336.30 --> 4337.32] you for -[4337.32 --> 4337.74] truth. -[4339.14 --> 4339.82] Jesus, -[4339.96 --> 4340.56] we pray this -[4340.64 --> 4341.04] in your -[4341.04 --> 4341.60] holy -[4341.60 --> 4342.14] name. -[4343.28 --> 4343.70] Amen. -[4345.22 --> 4345.74] Amen. -[4359.82 --> 4360.68] Amen. -[4360.68 --> 4372.16] Take my life and let it be -[4372.16 --> 4378.58] Consecrated, Lord, to Thee -[4378.58 --> 4385.12] Take my hand and let them rule -[4385.12 --> 4391.58] Have the impulse of Thy love -[4391.58 --> 4398.30] Have the impulse of Thy love -[4398.30 --> 4408.32] Take my feet and let them be -[4408.32 --> 4414.12] Swift and beautiful for Thee -[4415.12 --> 4421.58] Take my voice and let me sing -[4421.58 --> 4428.12] Always, only for my King -[4428.12 --> 4435.58] Always, only for my King -[4435.58 --> 4446.04] Take my silver and my gold -[4446.04 --> 4452.04] Not of my blood I withhold -[4452.04 --> 4458.50] Take my moments and my days -[4458.50 --> 4464.50] Let them flow in ceaseless praise -[4464.50 --> 4470.96] Let them flow in ceaseless praise -[4470.96 --> 4481.42] Take my will and make it Thine -[4481.42 --> 4491.88] Take my will and make it Thine -[4491.88 --> 4502.34] It shall be no longer mine -[4502.34 --> 4504.34] Take my heart, it is Thine -[4504.34 --> 4514.80] It shall be Thy royal throne -[4514.80 --> 4520.80] It shall be Thy royal throne -[4520.80 --> 4527.26] It shall be Thy royal throne -[4527.26 --> 4537.72] Take my will and make it Thine -[4537.72 --> 4550.18] Take my will and make it Thine -[4550.18 --> 4553.18] Take my will and make it Thine -[4553.18 --> 4560.18] It shall be no longer mine -[4560.18 --> 4566.64] Take my heart, it is Thine -[4566.64 --> 4577.10] It shall be Thy royal throne -[4577.10 --> 4581.10] It shall be Thy royal throne -[4581.10 --> 4594.56] Before you go this week -[4594.56 --> 4596.72] If you would like to meet someone for prayer -[4596.72 --> 4599.14] There will be someone up here after the service -[4599.14 --> 4600.66] who would love to connect with you -[4600.66 --> 4602.06] and to pray with you -[4602.06 --> 4605.24] I am also very mindful of the fact -[4605.24 --> 4606.96] that there are a number of people out there -[4606.96 --> 4608.28] in your rows beside you -[4608.28 --> 4609.40] who would also do the same -[4609.40 --> 4612.34] and so turn to those around you -[4612.34 --> 4614.82] and see how you might pray for them -[4614.82 --> 4616.74] as well as we go into this week -[4616.74 --> 4619.38] Lastly, just a quick reminder -[4619.38 --> 4622.34] hope to see many of you on New Year's Day -[4622.34 --> 4625.96] at 12.30 for our skating together -[4625.96 --> 4631.00] Go then with the blessing of our God -[4631.00 --> 4635.48] God, go before you to lead you -[4635.48 --> 4638.22] God, go behind you to protect you -[4638.22 --> 4640.68] God, go beneath you to support you -[4640.68 --> 4643.56] and God, go beside you to befriend you -[4643.56 --> 4646.18] Do not be afraid -[4646.18 --> 4648.74] Let the blessing of God come upon you today -[4648.74 --> 4650.44] Do not be afraid -[4650.44 --> 4655.30] but go in peace to love and serve the Lord -[4655.30 --> 4656.74] Amen -[4661.00 --> 4668.76] Set your rule and reign in our hearts again -[4668.76 --> 4672.88] In peace in us we pray -[4672.88 --> 4676.96] Avail why we're made -[4676.96 --> 4681.42] Come set our hearts ablaze with hope -[4681.42 --> 4685.52] Like a cloud file in our very souls -[4685.52 --> 4692.00] Holy Spirit come invade us now -[4692.00 --> 4697.10] We are your church -[4697.10 --> 4703.90] We need your power in us -[4703.90 --> 4712.72] We need your kingdom first -[4712.72 --> 4716.68] We hunger and we thirst -[4716.68 --> 4720.72] Refuse to waste our lives -[4720.72 --> 4724.66] For you're our joy and prize -[4724.66 --> 4728.86] To see the captive hearts released -[4728.86 --> 4732.84] The hurt, the sick, the poor and meek -[4732.84 --> 4739.34] We lay down our lives for heaven's souls -[4739.34 --> 4744.38] We are your church -[4744.38 --> 4750.86] We pray revive this earth -[4750.86 --> 4756.80] We are your kingdom first -[4756.80 --> 4758.68] We are your kingdom first -[4758.68 --> 4759.26] We are your kingdom first -[4759.26 --> 4763.12] Let the darkness fear -[4763.12 --> 4767.06] Show your mighty hand -[4767.06 --> 4770.96] Fill our streets at last -[4770.96 --> 4774.70] Set your church on fire -[4774.70 --> 4778.44] With the station back -[4778.44 --> 4780.44] Change the atmosphere -[4780.44 --> 4781.44] Change the atmosphere -[4781.44 --> 4782.44] Change the atmosphere -[4782.44 --> 4784.44] Build your kingdom -[4784.44 --> 4785.44] We are we pray -[4785.44 --> 4786.44] Build your kingdom -[4786.44 --> 4788.44] We are we pray -[4788.44 --> 4798.44] Unleash your kingdom's power -[4798.44 --> 4801.44] Reach in the near and far -[4801.44 --> 4805.44] No more smell can song -[4805.44 --> 4809.44] Your beauty changing heart -[4809.44 --> 4814.44] You've made us for much more than this -[4814.44 --> 4817.44] Awake the kingdom seed in us -[4817.44 --> 4820.44] Fill with earth the strength -[4820.44 --> 4824.44] And love of Christ -[4824.44 --> 4828.44] We are your church -[4828.44 --> 4835.44] We are the home on earth -[4835.44 --> 4837.44] We are the home on earth -[4837.44 --> 4843.44] Build your kingdom here -[4843.44 --> 4847.44] Let the darkness fear -[4847.44 --> 4849.44] Show your mighty hand -[4849.44 --> 4851.44] Fill our streets and lands -[4851.44 --> 4852.44] Send your church on fire -[4852.44 --> 4853.44] Fill our streets and lands -[4853.44 --> 4855.44] Fill our streets and lands -[4855.44 --> 4856.44] Fill our streets and lands -[4856.44 --> 4858.44] Send your church on fire -[4858.44 --> 4859.44] Send your church on fire -[4859.44 --> 4860.44] With the station back -[4860.44 --> 4862.44] With the station back -[4862.44 --> 4864.44] Change the atmosphere -[4864.44 --> 4866.44] Fill your kingdom -[4866.44 --> 4868.44] Build your kingdom -[4868.44 --> 4870.44] Fill your kingdom -[4870.44 --> 4875.44] We are we pray -[4875.44 --> 4905.42] Thank you. -[4905.44 --> 4935.42] Thank you. -[4935.44 --> 4965.42] Thank you. -[4965.44 --> 4995.42] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 7, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 7, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 049c76d03a266cba17126f2d8aebeb63e3c33a33..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 7, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,148 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction of Jesus as an elder in the church -• Announcement of a gift to be given to Jesus -• Invitation for Jesus to come forward and receive the gift -• Singing of a worship song together -• Celebration of the occasion with music and praise -• Worship and prayer -• Church offering and charity -• Wagner Hills ministry and addiction support -• Giving options for church budget and technology -• Scripture readings and music -• Congregational announcements and gathering -• Discussion of last week's topics, specifically Elizabeth and Zachariah -• Introduction to new topic: Mary and Joseph receiving unexpected news from a messenger -• Reading and prayer devotional on trusting God in uncertain times -• Update on church activities and announcements: - + Craft fair and bake sale success - + End-of-year budget needs - + Lord's Supper next Sunday - + Update on Lane Benny's health and Cor Bolt's passing -• Prayer for the congregation, including specific petitions for families grieving a loss -• Thanking God for safe delivery of baby John Peter -• Praying for health and strength for Josh, Rachel, and the baby -• Praying for Lane Benny's healing from illness -• Lifting up those who are homebound during winter season -• Praying for comfort and companionship for the isolated -• Asking for peace and light for those struggling with mental health -• Praying for the persecuted church worldwide -• Seeking strength and guidance for the local church community -• Reflecting on Advent and Christmas themes through "The Cast of Christmas" preaching series -• Exploring Mary's story in Luke 1, verses 26-38 -• The birth of Jesus as described in Matthew's gospel account -• Joseph's decision to divorce Mary quietly due to her pregnancy, and the angelic visitation that changed his mind -• Advertising techniques used by companies to sell products through storytelling and symbolism -• How car marketing uses a "story" rather than listing features or benefits -• The idea of peace is often sold as a product that can be achieved by escaping or avoiding life's challenges -• This escape mentality promotes the idea that peace is something to be found "out there" rather than within oneself -• The culture encourages people to find their true selves and express themselves authentically, but this can lead to self-centeredness and distraction from external responsibilities -• The script for finding peace often involves removing oneself from the world's noise and demands, rather than engaging with them and finding a sense of purpose and meaning -• The nature of peace as fragile and always moving -• The importance of maintaining a sense of self that is constantly changing -• The need for affirmation from others to survive despite claiming independence -• Critique of the idea that peace will come when life slows down or external circumstances are improved -• Discussion of how this approach leads to peace deferred -• Exploration of what it means to have peace that isn't dependent on feelings, moods, or external validation -• Peace that requires life to cooperate is not a true peace -• True peace comes when we yield ourselves to God's will, even if it disrupts our plans -• Mary and Joseph's story illustrates this concept of yielding to God's will -• Their lives looked very different from ours due to cultural and societal differences -• A betrothal in their day was a formal arrangement between two families that was considered binding, with the only ways to break it being death or divorce -• Bride price paid by groom's family -• Betrothal period before marriage consummation -• Mary's situation as a young woman in a legally binding but not yet consummated marriage -• Expectations for herself and her family regarding the future of the marriage -• The angel's announcement that will change Mary's life and future plans -• Mary's willingness to serve God and surrender her plans -• The source of Mary's peace in being surrendered to God's word -• Mary's surrender as an example of the shape of advent peace -• The difference between a quiet life and a deep, steadfast life surrendered to God -• Joseph's perspective on surrender from within disruption -• Matthew's account of Joseph's side of the story with restraint -• A wedding ceremony is planned for Joseph and Mary -• Joseph prepares to build a life with Mary, but discovers she is pregnant -• He realizes he's not the father and must decide what to do -• Joseph considers public accusation or legal consequences against Mary -• Instead, he decides to quietly dissolve their betrothal and divorce her to protect her from shame -• God interrupts his decision through an angel in a dream, revealing that the child is of the Holy Spirit and Joseph's role is part of a larger story. -• The significance of a call to reshape one's life, as experienced by Mary and potentially others -• Taking Mary as wife and embracing the child she carries (Jesus) -• Joseph publicly accepting shame and its implications -• Lifetime of social judgment and questioning for Joseph -• Connection between Joseph's situation and Jesus' adulthood -• Joseph's anxiety and obedience in a moment where he is commanded to raise Jesus as his own -• The social cost and shame that Joseph absorbs, not just for himself but also on Mary and Jesus -• Matthew's account of Joseph's dream and his immediate response to the angel's command -• The concept of "peace" being discussed, specifically not the peace of understanding or having all questions answered, but rather a different kind of peace -• The peace of trust comes from entrusting one's life to God, whose wisdom exceeds human understanding. -• Mary and Joseph are examples of people who have reordered their lives according to God's will. -• It is tempting to admire them from a distance as unusually brave, faithful, and prepared for their moment. -• However, the question remains whether they merited God's favor or simply received it due to circumstances. -• The nature of God -• Ordinary human people, Mary and Joseph -• Their experiences with God's call -• Trust and surrender to God's will -• Obedience as a response to God's peace -• Knowing and understanding God -• God's love and care for humans -• Love that doesn't depend on human strength or understanding -• Encouragement not to be afraid, but trust in God -• The story of Jesus and Mary is meant to draw hearts towards the center of the gospel. -• Mary and Jesus' actions disrupt their family's carefully laid plans. -• Jesus embodies obedience by yielding to God's will. -• Trust, control, and surrender are themes in Jesus' path. -• Mary's surrender begins the story, while Jesus' surrender brings it to its climax. -• Joseph bears shame for protecting Mary, while Jesus bears shame and sin to redeem us. -• Trust in God -• Jesus steps into darkness and bears the cross -• Substitutionary life of Jesus -• Obedience and yielding to God's will -• Exchange of peace for unrest, righteousness for rebellion, holiness for fractured selves -• Love that anchors our peace through Christ's sacrifice -• Surrendering to God's plan and surrendering oneself for others -• Christ's love and resurrection -• The Holy Spirit pouring love into hearts and lives -• God's love for Mary in Nazareth -• Joseph's confusion and steadying influence -• Jesus' crucifixion and the same love moving towards others -• Love that moves through life's struggles and plans falling apart -• Being held, forgiven, and having true peace when surrendering to God -• The past and recent experiences of a speaker at a prayer gathering -• Experience of heightened busyness and chaos -• Long-term rest is not possible, only temporary calm -• Feeling tired and overwhelmed by calendar of events -• Mention of specific date (November 12) as a turning point -• Realization that the Holy Spirit convicted speaker to change -• Wife's repeated message to listen to the Spirit -• Cost of busyness and its effects on family members -• Feeling guilty for burdening others with stress and anxiety -• Recognizing that restless striving is not the answer to peace -• Surrendering to Jesus and His obedience as a source of true peace -• Understanding that manufactured peace through control and schedules is not authentic -• Embracing the gospel's message and reliance on God's provision -• The speaker discusses a doctrine that preaches a reality where one can rest in Jesus. -• Jesus didn't come to stop the speaker's striving, but to replace it with surrender. -• The speaker compares their own striving and grasping to Jesus' obedience and trust in God. -• Mary and Joseph are mentioned as examples of surrender to God's will. -• Jesus is seen as a gift that brings peace and belonging to the speaker. -• The speaker is unable to manufacture peace -• The other person delights in giving peace and does not wait for the speaker to calm down or slow down -• The other person meets the speaker in the chaos they have created and gives them themselves, offering a sense of trust and surrender -• Discussion of true peace and its relationship to God's will -• Generosity and surrender as sources of peace -• The importance of union with Christ in finding peace -• Contrasting controlling circumstances with trusting in God's plan -• Three ways to experience peace through Christ's willing surrender -• The speaker discusses the challenges of managing time and commitments during the holiday season -• The importance of surrendering one's schedule to God and praying about it -• The need to rest in word and prayer, including reading Scripture and changing the approach to prayer from asking for relief to receiving Christ's presence -• The concept of yielding to God, which can involve small acts of trust and obedience, such as responding patiently to a family member or giving difficult tasks to God instead of trying to control them -• The invitation of Advent to live like Mary and Joseph, obeying and trusting in Jesus even when the future is uncertain -• The speaker's prayer for peace to be with those listening, citing Christ's promise to bring peace and overcome the world -• Discussion of peace and the presence of God -• References to worship, prayer, and adoration of Jesus Christ -• Bible verses and scriptural allusions -• Prayers for guidance, protection, and healing -• Conversations with the Holy Spirit and seeking spiritual renewal -• Reflections on mortality and the afterlife -• Repeated expression of gratitude, with no specific topic or subject discussed. -• Transcript appears to be a recording of an automated system or timer, counting down in seconds. \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 7, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 7, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3f45cf24da98bbfebe15aa37c32e5c75ec0db679..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 7, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3005 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[359.98 --> 389.96] Thank you. -[389.98 --> 419.96] Thank you. -[419.98 --> 449.96] Thank you. -[449.96 --> 479.94] Thank you. -[479.96 --> 509.94] Thank you. -[509.94 --> 539.92] Thank you. -[539.94 --> 569.92] Thank you. -[569.92 --> 599.90] Thank you. -[599.92 --> 629.90] Thank you. -[629.94 --> 659.90] Thank you. -[659.90 --> 689.88] Thank you. -[689.88 --> 719.86] Thank you. -[719.86 --> 749.84] Thank you. -[749.84 --> 779.82] Thank you. -[779.84 --> 809.82] Thank you. -[809.82 --> 839.80] Thank you. -[839.80 --> 869.78] Thank you. -[869.78 --> 899.76] Thank you. -[899.78 --> 929.76] Thank you. -[929.78 --> 959.76] Thank you. -[959.78 --> 989.76] Thank you. -[989.76 --> 1019.74] Thank you. -[1019.76 --> 1049.74] Thank you. -[1049.76 --> 1079.74] Thank you. -[1079.74 --> 1109.72] Thank you. -[1109.74 --> 1139.72] Thank you. -[1139.72 --> 1169.70] Thank you. -[1169.70 --> 1199.68] Thank you. -[1199.70 --> 1229.68] Thank you. -[1229.70 --> 1259.68] Thank you. -[1259.70 --> 1289.68] Thank you. -[1289.70 --> 1319.68] Thank you. -[1319.70 --> 1349.70] Thank you. -[1349.70 --> 1379.68] Thank you. -[1379.68 --> 1409.66] Thank you. -[1409.66 --> 1439.64] Thank you. -[1439.66 --> 1469.64] Thank you. -[1469.66 --> 1499.64] Thank you. -[1499.64 --> 1529.62] with me. -[1529.62 --> 1559.60] Thank you. -[1559.60 --> 1589.58] Thank you. -[1589.58 --> 1619.58] Thank you. -[1619.58 --> 1649.56] Thank you. -[1649.56 --> 1679.54] Thank you. -[1679.54 --> 1709.52] Thank you. -[1709.54 --> 1739.52] Thank you. -[1739.52 --> 1769.50] Thank you. -[1769.52 --> 1799.50] Thank you. -[1799.52 --> 1829.50] Thank you. -[1829.52 --> 1859.50] Thank you. -[1859.52 --> 1889.50] Thank you. -[1889.52 --> 1919.50] Thank you. -[1919.52 --> 1949.50] Thank you. -[1949.52 --> 1979.50] Thank you. -[1979.50 --> 2009.48] Thank you. -[2009.50 --> 2039.48] Thank you. -[2039.50 --> 2069.48] Thank you. -[2069.48 --> 2099.46] Thank you. -[2099.48 --> 2129.46] Thank you. -[2129.46 --> 2159.44] Good morning to you. -[2159.46 --> 2189.46] Thank you. -[2189.46 --> 2219.46] Thank you. -[2219.46 --> 2249.46] Thank you. -[2249.46 --> 2279.46] Thank you. -[2279.46 --> 2309.46] Thank you. -[2309.46 --> 2339.46] Thank you. -[2339.46 --> 2369.46] Thank you. -[2369.46 --> 2399.46] Thank you. -[2399.46 --> 2429.46] Thank you. -[2429.46 --> 2459.44] Thank you. -[2459.46 --> 2466.46] Thank you. -[2466.46 --> 2496.44] Thank you. -[2496.44 --> 2526.44] Thank you. -[2526.44 --> 2556.42] I will ask you. -[2556.44 --> 2558.44] Amen. -[2558.44 --> 2559.44] Amen. -[2559.44 --> 2586.42] Amen. -[2586.42 --> 2616.42] Thank you. -[2616.42 --> 2646.40] Thank you. -[2647.26 --> 2647.66] Amen. -[2654.04 --> 2656.80] At this point, we have a gift we would like to give you. -[2657.78 --> 2659.58] And then we'll give you the gift of music. -[2660.80 --> 2662.68] I'm going to invite Jesus to come forward. -[2662.80 --> 2666.84] He's an elder in our church, and there's a gift here to mark this occasion -[2666.84 --> 2668.78] and to celebrate this day. -[2672.30 --> 2673.18] Lord bless you. -[2673.18 --> 2675.36] Let's stand and sing together. -[2676.42 --> 2706.40] Let's stand and sing together. -[2706.40 --> 2714.40] Oh my soul, worship His holy name. -[2715.40 --> 2718.40] Sing like never before. -[2719.92 --> 2726.40] Oh my soul, I worship Your holy name. -[2726.40 --> 2734.40] The sun comes up. -[2734.40 --> 2738.40] It's a new day dawning. -[2738.40 --> 2744.40] It's time to sing Your song again. -[2744.40 --> 2752.40] Whatever may pass and whatever lies before me. -[2752.40 --> 2758.40] Let me be singing when the evening comes. -[2758.40 --> 2759.40] Let's stand and sing together. -[2759.40 --> 2760.40] Let's stand and sing together. -[2760.40 --> 2764.40] Let's stand and sing together. -[2764.40 --> 2768.40] Lord, oh my soul, oh my soul, oh my soul. -[2768.40 --> 2773.40] Oh my soul, worship His holy name. -[2773.40 --> 2774.40] Sing like never before. -[2774.40 --> 2775.40] Oh my soul, oh my soul. -[2775.40 --> 2777.40] Oh my soul, I worship Your holy name. -[2777.40 --> 2778.40] Oh my soul, oh my soul. -[2778.40 --> 2779.40] Oh my soul, oh my soul. -[2779.40 --> 2780.40] Oh my soul, oh my soul. -[2780.40 --> 2784.40] Oh my soul, I worship Your holy name. -[2784.40 --> 2790.40] Oh my soul, oh my soul, oh my soul. -[2790.40 --> 2796.40] Your rich in love and Your soul to anger. -[2796.40 --> 2802.40] Your need is great and your heart is bright -[2803.40 --> 2809.40] For all your goodness I will keep on singing -[2810.40 --> 2817.40] Ten thousand reasons for my heart to find -[2817.40 --> 2827.40] Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul -[2828.40 --> 2832.40] Worship His holy name -[2833.40 --> 2839.40] Sing like ever before, O my soul -[2840.40 --> 2845.40] I'll worship Your holy name -[2847.40 --> 2855.40] And on that day when my strength is failing -[2856.40 --> 2861.40] The end draws near and my time has come -[2862.40 --> 2868.40] Still my soul will sing Your praise unending -[2868.40 --> 2877.40] Ten thousand years and then forevermore -[2878.40 --> 2885.40] Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul -[2885.40 --> 2890.40] Worship His holy name -[2891.40 --> 2897.40] Sing like ever before, O my soul -[2897.40 --> 2900.40] I'll worship Your holy name -[2900.40 --> 2907.40] Sing like ever before, O my soul -[2907.40 --> 2910.40] Sing like ever before, O my soul -[2910.40 --> 2916.40] I'll worship Your holy name -[2916.40 --> 2922.40] Sing like ever before, O my soul -[2922.40 --> 2925.40] I'll worship Your holy name -[2925.40 --> 2928.40] I'll worship Your holy name -[2928.40 --> 2933.40] I'll worship Your holy name -[2933.40 --> 2942.40] Lord, I'll worship Your holy name -[2942.40 --> 2943.40] I'll worship your holy name -[2944.40 --> 2945.40] My name is Pete and I'm a deacon here at Emmanuel -[2945.40 --> 2954.40] and first I'd like to -[2954.40 --> 2966.00] I was afraid I'd have to try turn this thing on, but thanks. -[2966.72 --> 2967.54] My name is Pete. -[2967.66 --> 2968.94] I'm a deacon here at Emanuel. -[2969.62 --> 2977.14] And first, I'd like to let you know that next week's offering is going to be a reverse offering. -[2977.14 --> 2982.86] So that will be, there'll be gift certificates in the bags or in the, I don't know if it's -[2982.86 --> 2985.80] going to be a bag or a basket, but you'll see gift certificates. -[2986.68 --> 2996.66] So as the Lord puts people on your hearts this week that may need some help, we just have -[2996.66 --> 3001.30] them in mind as the baskets go by and take out the ones that you would like to give. -[3001.30 --> 3006.86] So this week's offering is for Wagner Hills. -[3006.86 --> 3013.78] And they're a ministry based in Langley itself. -[3013.78 --> 3023.02] They minister to men and women that have problems with addictions and they offer classes. -[3023.02 --> 3025.10] They offer counseling. -[3025.68 --> 3027.26] It's a year-long program. -[3027.26 --> 3035.62] They also have groups that go out and work in the community and just so that they can -[3035.62 --> 3037.42] get back into regular life. -[3037.42 --> 3041.04] I think it's a real worthwhile cause to support. -[3041.22 --> 3044.80] It's a Christian-based service with them. -[3045.36 --> 3051.42] Also, if you're interested in giving to the budget of the church, it'd be best to ear tag -[3051.42 --> 3055.30] it or to use the envelopes in the rows. -[3056.06 --> 3059.36] Or you can do it by, there's three different ways there. -[3059.56 --> 3064.30] You can do it on email or one of those kind of things. -[3064.42 --> 3065.84] I'm really bad at technology. -[3066.04 --> 3068.68] So it's like, I'm sure you can read those ones. -[3069.46 --> 3069.74] All right. -[3069.90 --> 3073.12] So just give as the Lord has blessed. -[3073.50 --> 3073.88] Thanks. -[3073.88 --> 3092.74] All right. -[3092.74 --> 3096.66] Bethlehem appeared to start -[3096.66 --> 3102.34] All angels sang to lowly shepherds -[3102.34 --> 3107.04] Three wise men seeking truth -[3107.04 --> 3110.18] Traveled from above -[3110.18 --> 3115.30] Hoping to find a child from heaven -[3115.30 --> 3119.20] Falling away -[3119.20 --> 3126.88] Thou before the humble Prince of Kings -[3126.88 --> 3133.58] We bring an offering of worship to our King -[3133.58 --> 3140.06] No one on earth deserves the praises that we sing -[3140.06 --> 3146.54] Jesus, may you receive the honor that you're due -[3146.54 --> 3153.22] Oh Lord, we bring an offering to you -[3153.22 --> 3160.22] We bring an offering to you -[3160.22 --> 3172.10] The Son cannot prepare to the glory of your love -[3172.10 --> 3177.90] There is no shadow in your presence -[3177.90 --> 3185.58] No mortal man would dare to stand before your throne -[3185.58 --> 3190.58] Before the Holy One of Heaven -[3190.58 --> 3195.58] It's only by your love -[3195.58 --> 3198.58] It's only through your mercy -[3198.58 --> 3207.26] O Lord, I bring an offering to you -[3207.26 --> 3215.94] I bring an offering to you -[3215.94 --> 3221.62] Jesus, may you receive the honor that you're due -[3221.62 --> 3228.30] O Lord, I bring an offering to you -[3228.30 --> 3232.30] I bring an offering to you -[3232.30 --> 3234.30] I bring an offering to you -[3234.30 --> 3246.98] O Lord, I bring an offering to you -[3246.98 --> 3259.66] O Lord, I bring an offering to you -[3259.66 --> 3263.66] O Lord, I bring an offering to you -[3263.66 --> 3281.34] O Lord, I encourage you -[3281.34 --> 3286.34] O Lord, I bring an offering to you -[3286.34 --> 3295.82] Good morning, everybody. Can I have the preschool all the way up to grade four come on up to -[3295.82 --> 3312.46] the front today? Can anybody in this group, some of you are new, so you might not have -[3312.46 --> 3317.12] been here last week. Can anybody in this group remember two main characters that we -[3317.12 --> 3329.18] talked about last week? No? Yeah? Yeah, we talked about Elizabeth and Zachariah and -[3329.18 --> 3335.06] they heard some news. Yeah? And this week, you're right, Mateo, this week we're going -[3335.06 --> 3340.30] to talk about Mary and Joseph and how they got some unexpected news from a -[3340.30 --> 3345.96] messenger and how they had to change their plans and how they felt about it. -[3345.96 --> 3356.40] So I have, I've been going over a new devotional in, at home, and it goes through -[3356.40 --> 3360.88] songs. So we're going to say, we're going to do a little prayer. So can everybody close -[3360.88 --> 3367.82] their eyes, fold their hands? God of order, in all my disorder, in the middle of my -[3367.82 --> 3374.90] uncertainty, you are certain. You are sure, you are faithful, you are good. Even as Mary -[3374.90 --> 3380.26] and Joseph were experiencing moments both holy and traumatic, not too far away were -[3380.26 --> 3384.82] shepherds tending their flocks. Shepherds whom you would lead to come see the newborn -[3384.82 --> 3389.98] Savior. You're already working in the midst of this couple's upheaval, moving in their -[3389.98 --> 3396.28] mayhem, tender in their turmoil, divine in their disorder. You are the God of great and -[3396.28 --> 3401.58] perfect plans. Even in the messiness of life this season, you might well be leading me -[3401.58 --> 3407.38] to be to the miraculous, and I will trust you. Amen. -[3408.44 --> 3412.58] So in church's worship time, we're going to learn a little bit more on how we can trust -[3412.58 --> 3419.36] in God when our plans are not the way that we think they should be. So let's everybody -[3419.36 --> 3429.36] stand up. Let's look at the congregation. And we're going to go one, two, three. The Lord -[3429.36 --> 3432.14] is in the womb and also with you. -[3449.36 --> 3466.58] Hi, my name is Paul and I'm an elder here at this church. Before we go to prayer, it's -[3466.58 --> 3473.36] my privilege to lead us in prayer this morning. We have a couple of updates and council announcements. -[3473.36 --> 3482.36] And we want to thank everybody who made the craft fair and bake sale yesterday a huge success. -[3482.36 --> 3488.60] Thanks for all that came out and those that participated. A special thank you to the leaders -[3488.60 --> 3496.36] and those who helped and set up and clean up. And it was great to have that happen here yesterday. -[3496.36 --> 3506.36] As the end of the year approaches, we'd like to thank everybody for your faithful support -[3506.36 --> 3513.36] and giving throughout the year. At the end of November, we find ourselves only 11% behind. -[3513.36 --> 3520.36] So we're, praise God for that. By the end of the year, we're required to make our budget. -[3520.36 --> 3531.36] So we ask that you will consider helping us finish strong. I want to also remind you that next Sunday -[3531.36 --> 3540.36] is Lord's Supper. We encourage you to spend this week preparing your hearts and to be met by Christ -[3540.36 --> 3553.36] at the table next week. If you have kids, we encourage that you will talk to them about what this means as we gather. -[3553.36 --> 3560.36] And one thing that hasn't been in the bulletin that I want to bring before you is, as many of you may know, -[3560.36 --> 3570.36] Leo and Debbie Benny, their son, Lane, the youngest, is very sick. He has stomach cancer. -[3570.36 --> 3582.36] And we want to bring him before the Lord. As well, we want to, what has been in the bulletin is the passing away -[3582.36 --> 3593.36] of Corrine Muller's father, Cor Bolt. We want you to know that this funeral will be held next week, or this week, -[3593.36 --> 3606.36] sorry, Friday, at Maple Ridge Christian Forum Church. The time will be probably in the midweek bulletin. -[3606.36 --> 3619.36] Let's go to our God in prayer. -[3619.36 --> 3627.36] Father in heaven, once again we come before you with a sense of awe. -[3627.36 --> 3634.36] Especially in this season of Advent, we can only start to grasp how great you are. -[3636.36 --> 3643.36] From the tiniest neuron to the vastness of space, you created it all. -[3643.36 --> 3650.36] All you had to do was to speak it, and it was there. And still, you chose to make us part of it all, -[3650.36 --> 3654.36] and call us your children. -[3654.36 --> 3661.36] In this season, we remember and celebrate how you came to be with us. -[3661.36 --> 3669.36] And we sing, you stepped down from heaven, humbly you came, God of all creation, here with us, -[3669.36 --> 3676.36] in a starlit manger, Emmanuel, God with us. -[3676.36 --> 3679.36] How unexpected. -[3679.36 --> 3681.36] Then and now. -[3681.36 --> 3684.36] Help us to see you for who you are. -[3684.36 --> 3691.36] Help us to be part of your plan as a church community, as well as each one of us, personally. -[3691.36 --> 3697.36] Thank you, Father, for all you do for us here as a church community. -[3697.36 --> 3701.36] Thank you for all the ministries that do your work here. -[3701.36 --> 3706.36] Thank you for bringing us all here together again this morning. -[3706.36 --> 3712.36] We pray you will accept our worship here and in our daily lives. -[3712.36 --> 3713.36] We pray for you, God. -[3713.36 --> 3714.36] We pray for you, God. -[3714.36 --> 3719.36] Because we know who you are, we can also come to you with our petitions. -[3719.36 --> 3726.36] We pray for the Muller and Bolt families as they grieve the loss of Cor Bolt, -[3726.36 --> 3732.36] Father to Corrine and Grandfather to Brianna, Matthew and Anthony, -[3732.36 --> 3736.36] who passed away this past Wednesday morning. -[3736.36 --> 3743.36] May God grant them peace, comfort and strength as they walk through this time. -[3743.36 --> 3747.36] We thank you for the gift of baptism of Ruth. -[3747.36 --> 3755.36] We ask for your blessing over her life, that she may grow in faith and joy and wisdom. -[3755.36 --> 3762.36] We pray for Haley and Nate as they guide and nurture her in God's love. -[3762.36 --> 3768.36] May this special day mark the beginning of a lifetime walking with you. -[3768.36 --> 3775.36] We give thanks to God and celebrate the arrival of the baby boy, John Peter, -[3775.36 --> 3780.36] born to Josh and Rachel and the big sister, Elizabeth. -[3780.36 --> 3787.36] We pray God will give them a... -[3787.36 --> 3796.36] We thank you for safe delivery and we pray that you will continue to give health and strength from mom and baby. -[3796.36 --> 3799.36] We pray that you will continue to bless them. -[3799.36 --> 3806.36] Lord, we pray for Lane Benny. -[3806.36 --> 3808.36] Lord, we ask for healing. -[3808.36 --> 3815.36] We ask that you will give strength and peace as he deals with this illness. -[3815.36 --> 3829.36] As we enter this winter season, we lift up all who are homebound and unable to get out. -[3829.36 --> 3835.36] We pray for comfort and companionship and strength for all who are at home. -[3835.36 --> 3840.36] Lord, we pray that you will hold them close. -[3840.36 --> 3844.36] We pray for those who struggle with mental health at this time of the year. -[3844.36 --> 3847.36] We ask that you will give them your peace and light. -[3847.36 --> 3854.36] Lord, we pray for the persecuted church all around the world. -[3854.36 --> 3859.36] Those who stand and praise your name, Lord. -[3859.36 --> 3865.36] Lord, we ask that you will give them the strength that they need. -[3865.36 --> 3870.36] Lord, we ask that you will continue to help this church to gather in your name, -[3870.36 --> 3875.36] to grow in the knowledge that you are with us and saved us from our sins. -[3875.36 --> 3881.36] Help us to go out into the community around us and be a light. -[3881.36 --> 3884.36] Father, we pray here us. -[3884.36 --> 3890.36] Look at the list of our concerns. -[3890.36 --> 3894.36] We know that you knew it before we wrote it down. -[3895.16 --> 3897.16] We know that you know better than us -[3897.16 --> 3899.70] what must be prayed in each of these circumstances. -[3900.68 --> 3903.74] We ask that your Holy Spirit completes it. -[3906.12 --> 3908.34] As we hear your word for us this morning, -[3908.48 --> 3909.64] preached by Pastor Chris, -[3909.64 --> 3914.30] fill us with your will and purpose. -[3916.76 --> 3918.54] Guide us by your Holy Spirit -[3918.54 --> 3921.24] so that your kingdom will advance through us -[3921.24 --> 3923.50] and your holy name is glorified -[3923.50 --> 3926.76] the story of amazing love, -[3927.88 --> 3929.96] the light of the world given for us. -[3931.08 --> 3934.50] We pray that our eyes will be fixed on Jesus. -[3935.22 --> 3936.72] We pray that by your Spirit, -[3936.72 --> 3939.04] you will bring it in our hearts to believe -[3939.04 --> 3940.26] and to trust in you. -[3941.18 --> 3944.56] We ask all these things because of your holy name. -[3945.38 --> 3945.66] Amen. -[3953.50 --> 3966.60] This Advent and Christmas, -[3966.60 --> 3973.70] we are here at Emanuel going through a preaching series -[3973.70 --> 3976.22] and we've called The Cast of Christmas, -[3976.22 --> 3979.64] looking at different characters in this story. -[3979.64 --> 3983.32] And today, we're going to be looking more closely -[3983.32 --> 3987.40] at Mary and Joseph and who they are -[3987.40 --> 3989.50] and their story for us. -[3989.58 --> 3992.16] And so we're going to do that by reading from two places. -[3992.16 --> 3996.46] We're going to read from Luke 1, verse 26 to 38. -[3996.70 --> 4001.18] And then we will read from Matthew 1, 18 to 25. -[4001.68 --> 4005.68] We'll start with Luke 1, 26 to 38. -[4006.02 --> 4006.36] Luke 1, 26 to 38. -[4006.36 --> 4009.62] Luke 1, 26 to 38. -[4009.64 --> 4014.76] In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, -[4015.34 --> 4018.06] God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, -[4018.20 --> 4019.30] a town in Galilee, -[4019.84 --> 4023.24] to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, -[4023.50 --> 4024.62] a descendant of David. -[4025.34 --> 4027.48] The virgin's name was Mary. -[4028.16 --> 4029.96] The angel went to her and said, -[4030.30 --> 4032.94] greetings, you who are highly favored. -[4033.36 --> 4034.64] The Lord is with you. -[4035.94 --> 4038.18] Mary was greatly troubled at his words -[4038.18 --> 4041.26] and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. -[4042.10 --> 4043.72] But the angel said to her, -[4043.72 --> 4045.56] do not be afraid, Mary. -[4046.14 --> 4047.86] You have found favor with God. -[4048.52 --> 4050.98] You will conceive and give birth to a son -[4050.98 --> 4053.26] and you are to call him Jesus. -[4054.20 --> 4057.56] He will be great and will be called the son of the most high. -[4058.04 --> 4061.12] The Lord God will give him the throne of his father, David, -[4061.12 --> 4064.52] and he will reign over Jacob's descendants forever. -[4065.00 --> 4066.92] His kingdom will never end. -[4066.92 --> 4069.46] How can this be? -[4069.46 --> 4072.64] Mary asked the angel, since I am a virgin. -[4073.80 --> 4075.22] The angel answered, -[4076.26 --> 4078.30] the Holy Spirit will come on you -[4078.30 --> 4081.36] and the power of the most high will overshadow you. -[4081.76 --> 4085.76] So the holy one to be born will be called the son of God. -[4086.54 --> 4088.30] Even Elizabeth, your relative, -[4088.30 --> 4090.62] is going to have a child in her old age -[4090.62 --> 4093.48] and she who was said to be unable to conceive -[4093.48 --> 4095.14] is in her sixth month. -[4095.14 --> 4099.76] For no word from God will ever fail. -[4101.24 --> 4103.78] I am the Lord's servant, Mary answered. -[4104.44 --> 4106.56] May your word to me be fulfilled. -[4107.40 --> 4108.66] Then the angel left her. -[4111.12 --> 4116.44] Now we will read from the beginning of Matthew's gospel account, -[4116.60 --> 4119.52] Matthew chapter 1, starting at verse 18. -[4125.14 --> 4129.56] This is how the birth of Jesus, the Messiah, came about. -[4130.04 --> 4133.90] His mother, Mary, was pledged to be married to Joseph, -[4134.40 --> 4136.30] but before they came together, -[4136.54 --> 4139.04] she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. -[4139.92 --> 4143.06] Because Joseph, her husband, was faithful to the law -[4143.06 --> 4146.82] and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, -[4146.82 --> 4150.00] he had in mind to divorce her quietly. -[4151.84 --> 4153.82] But after he had considered this, -[4153.88 --> 4156.18] an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream -[4156.18 --> 4156.66] and said, -[4156.82 --> 4158.44] Joseph, son of David, -[4159.00 --> 4162.48] do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife -[4162.48 --> 4166.40] because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. -[4167.28 --> 4168.96] She will give birth to a son -[4168.96 --> 4171.22] and you are to give him the name Jesus -[4171.22 --> 4174.62] because he will save his people from their sins. -[4176.32 --> 4178.32] All this took place to fulfill -[4178.32 --> 4180.20] what the Lord had said through the prophet. -[4180.94 --> 4183.62] The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son -[4183.62 --> 4185.34] and they will call him Emmanuel, -[4185.86 --> 4187.34] which means God with us. -[4189.30 --> 4191.04] When Joseph woke up, -[4191.14 --> 4193.76] he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him -[4193.76 --> 4195.62] and took Mary home as his wife. -[4196.48 --> 4198.38] But he did not consummate their marriage -[4198.38 --> 4200.18] until she gave birth to a son -[4200.18 --> 4203.30] and he gave him the name Jesus. -[4203.98 --> 4205.18] This is the word of the Lord. -[4211.90 --> 4214.80] When I was a kid at Christmas time -[4214.80 --> 4216.84] and actually probably in October, -[4217.50 --> 4220.88] the Toys R Us catalog would come out. -[4222.00 --> 4223.64] If you're older than I am, -[4223.74 --> 4226.38] maybe it's the Sears catalog that you remember. -[4226.38 --> 4230.88] And my brothers and I would get this Toys R Us catalog -[4230.88 --> 4232.04] and we would sit there -[4232.04 --> 4233.86] and we would just flip through it -[4233.86 --> 4235.48] with a pen or a pencil -[4235.48 --> 4238.24] and then just circle everything that we wanted. -[4238.46 --> 4239.64] I want this circle. -[4239.78 --> 4240.82] I want that circle. -[4241.14 --> 4242.66] Oh, I better get this. -[4242.76 --> 4243.60] Three circles. -[4244.90 --> 4247.44] And then as we were doing that -[4247.44 --> 4249.18] and the TV would be on, -[4249.30 --> 4251.88] we would also hear a commercial on TV -[4251.88 --> 4252.50] and we'd go, -[4252.58 --> 4253.94] Mom, buy me that for Christmas. -[4255.76 --> 4256.14] Right? -[4256.26 --> 4260.26] And with this TV commercial -[4260.26 --> 4263.58] would come the news -[4263.58 --> 4267.80] that this is the best Nerf gun ever made. -[4267.94 --> 4270.96] Shoot farther than you've ever been able to shoot before. -[4271.18 --> 4271.94] And I would say, -[4272.02 --> 4272.76] I want that -[4272.76 --> 4275.08] because I want to shoot you from across the street. -[4275.08 --> 4282.78] Now, we see this perhaps most particularly at Christmas, -[4282.88 --> 4284.20] but this is true year round, right? -[4284.46 --> 4287.58] Here is how advertising works. -[4289.16 --> 4290.40] Because these companies, -[4290.84 --> 4291.82] in those commercials -[4291.82 --> 4293.46] and in those magazines, -[4293.58 --> 4295.78] aren't really selling you a product. -[4296.04 --> 4296.76] Now, to be clear, -[4297.14 --> 4299.16] they want you to buy their product, -[4299.16 --> 4301.70] but they do it by selling you a story. -[4303.34 --> 4303.74] Right? -[4303.80 --> 4305.16] The product is a symbol. -[4305.98 --> 4308.48] It's a foil for a way of life, -[4308.98 --> 4310.74] for an experience of joy -[4310.74 --> 4312.20] that would be unmatched -[4312.20 --> 4313.42] and unparalleled -[4313.42 --> 4314.98] but for this thing. -[4316.28 --> 4318.22] It's never said outright, -[4319.00 --> 4322.28] but car marketing is never really about the car, -[4322.44 --> 4324.28] even when they list all the features -[4324.28 --> 4325.98] and the fuel mileage that you can get. -[4326.16 --> 4328.16] The real pitch is the story. -[4328.16 --> 4330.56] The real pitch is the open road. -[4331.50 --> 4332.02] Right? -[4332.10 --> 4334.38] The beautiful driving up to Whistler -[4334.38 --> 4336.38] with no other cars on the streets. -[4336.52 --> 4337.22] Have you ever seen that? -[4338.28 --> 4339.42] But there it is. -[4339.54 --> 4340.68] That's what they're selling you. -[4341.48 --> 4341.74] Right? -[4341.84 --> 4345.18] The pitch is the beautiful night sky -[4345.18 --> 4347.54] with stars that you can't normally see, -[4347.64 --> 4349.22] but somehow you can see them -[4349.22 --> 4351.70] through the moonroof of this car -[4351.70 --> 4353.10] and the partner beside you -[4353.10 --> 4354.74] is much more beautiful than you deserve. -[4355.66 --> 4356.08] Right? -[4356.12 --> 4357.38] They're selling you a story. -[4358.16 --> 4359.84] Not just a vehicle. -[4360.28 --> 4362.00] They're selling you a vision for life. -[4362.42 --> 4363.50] The car or the thing -[4363.50 --> 4364.92] just becomes a symbol for that. -[4366.78 --> 4368.02] And here's the thing. -[4369.58 --> 4372.00] Because the same has become true -[4372.00 --> 4373.04] at Christmas. -[4374.94 --> 4375.42] Right? -[4375.54 --> 4376.72] Each week at Christmas -[4376.72 --> 4377.86] in the season of Advent, -[4378.10 --> 4380.78] we move through hope, joy, love, -[4380.78 --> 4382.58] and today, peace. -[4383.16 --> 4386.42] And we're being sold an idea -[4386.42 --> 4389.90] of what peace is by the world. -[4390.64 --> 4390.74] Right? -[4390.74 --> 4393.64] The world around us wants to sell peace, -[4393.64 --> 4399.28] but only if you buy a certain way of life with it. -[4400.28 --> 4400.70] Right? -[4400.74 --> 4402.26] The world around us whispers -[4402.26 --> 4404.38] and maybe shouts sometimes, -[4404.38 --> 4407.90] you can have peace if you just change this. -[4409.04 --> 4411.46] If you just chase the right thing. -[4411.54 --> 4414.76] And so we end up chasing these ethereal ideas -[4414.76 --> 4416.76] that end in a story, -[4416.90 --> 4418.96] in a picture of the good life. -[4419.34 --> 4420.44] To put it another way, -[4421.16 --> 4425.24] our culture has packaged peace as a product -[4425.24 --> 4428.50] and put it in a catalog that we can choose from -[4428.50 --> 4430.90] as we circle our particular ideas of it. -[4430.90 --> 4432.72] So for example, -[4432.80 --> 4433.68] let me illustrate this. -[4434.02 --> 4435.08] Maybe you've heard this, -[4435.16 --> 4435.98] maybe you've believed it, -[4436.04 --> 4437.04] maybe you are sitting here -[4437.04 --> 4438.52] hoping that it's true. -[4440.44 --> 4442.00] But peace will come -[4442.00 --> 4444.62] when you just get a little bit of an escape. -[4445.94 --> 4446.34] Right? -[4446.40 --> 4447.98] This is the idea of peace that comes -[4447.98 --> 4449.64] as we get away from it all. -[4450.30 --> 4450.58] Right? -[4450.62 --> 4451.66] The promise goes like this. -[4451.78 --> 4453.60] If we can just step away -[4453.60 --> 4455.82] from the chaos of life long enough, -[4456.34 --> 4457.90] I'll come back renewed. -[4459.54 --> 4459.94] Right? -[4459.94 --> 4461.24] Seven days in Mexico, -[4461.44 --> 4462.58] not quite going to do it. -[4462.78 --> 4463.18] Nine, -[4463.36 --> 4464.30] that's my target. -[4465.56 --> 4465.90] Right? -[4465.96 --> 4466.80] And in that picture, -[4466.96 --> 4468.78] peace is somewhere out there. -[4468.90 --> 4470.64] It's on the other side of a plane ticket, -[4470.92 --> 4471.74] a weekend alone. -[4471.92 --> 4473.80] It's on the other side of a strategic -[4473.80 --> 4475.22] shutting out other people -[4475.22 --> 4476.34] and the demands of life. -[4476.54 --> 4478.08] The sales pitch that we're hearing -[4478.08 --> 4478.96] goes like this. -[4479.04 --> 4480.30] Get far away enough -[4480.30 --> 4481.94] from your ordinary responsibilities -[4481.94 --> 4483.50] and peace will catch up to you. -[4484.72 --> 4485.74] Peace will come -[4485.74 --> 4487.14] when you silence the noise -[4487.14 --> 4488.98] by removing yourself from it. -[4488.98 --> 4490.24] Treat yourself -[4490.24 --> 4492.28] is the modern liturgy -[4492.28 --> 4493.50] of self-salvation, -[4494.42 --> 4495.56] of finding your own peace. -[4496.24 --> 4497.46] Or another way that peace -[4497.46 --> 4499.14] is marketed to us -[4499.14 --> 4500.94] is we hear things like, -[4501.28 --> 4502.32] what I really need to do -[4502.32 --> 4504.24] is just find myself -[4504.24 --> 4505.42] within myself. -[4506.16 --> 4507.34] This is the peace -[4507.34 --> 4509.86] of becoming fully yourself. -[4510.28 --> 4511.88] And please, -[4511.96 --> 4512.70] I want to be really clear. -[4512.90 --> 4513.02] Right? -[4513.08 --> 4514.94] Don't hear what I'm not saying. -[4514.94 --> 4515.94] I do, like, -[4516.20 --> 4517.40] we want everyone -[4517.40 --> 4519.38] to genuinely feel like -[4519.38 --> 4520.88] they don't need to put on a mask, -[4520.92 --> 4522.08] like you don't need to pretend -[4522.08 --> 4523.78] to be who you are, -[4523.86 --> 4525.70] to conform to certain standards -[4525.70 --> 4526.86] or social conventions. -[4528.30 --> 4529.98] But we also want to be wise. -[4530.94 --> 4531.16] Right? -[4531.20 --> 4531.96] Because the promise here -[4531.96 --> 4532.68] goes like this. -[4533.24 --> 4535.64] If you can just discover yourself, -[4535.90 --> 4536.92] express yourself, -[4537.06 --> 4538.20] be your true self, -[4538.36 --> 4540.04] then you will finally -[4540.04 --> 4541.68] be settled within. -[4543.68 --> 4545.88] The cultural script says, -[4546.16 --> 4546.68] look inward, -[4546.92 --> 4548.70] identify your truest you, -[4549.06 --> 4550.80] throw off external expectations -[4550.80 --> 4551.72] and constraint -[4551.72 --> 4552.98] that are constraining -[4552.98 --> 4554.34] your authentic expression. -[4554.74 --> 4556.16] Live out your inner truth -[4556.16 --> 4557.02] without apology -[4557.02 --> 4558.58] and then peace will bloom. -[4560.06 --> 4560.48] But again, -[4560.54 --> 4561.64] here's where we have to be wise. -[4561.92 --> 4562.10] Right? -[4562.18 --> 4564.06] Because a peace like that -[4564.06 --> 4564.98] is fragile. -[4565.98 --> 4567.40] And it's always moving -[4567.40 --> 4568.18] and shifting. -[4568.18 --> 4570.30] And it depends entirely -[4570.30 --> 4572.04] on maintaining a sense of self -[4572.04 --> 4573.64] that is constantly changing. -[4574.36 --> 4575.68] It requires affirmation -[4575.68 --> 4576.16] from others -[4576.16 --> 4577.08] in order to survive -[4577.08 --> 4578.50] even as it claims -[4578.50 --> 4580.04] to be independent of others. -[4582.12 --> 4583.20] And lastly, -[4583.44 --> 4584.70] and one of the other, -[4584.98 --> 4586.54] perhaps most common ways -[4586.54 --> 4589.38] that we are sold ideas of peace -[4589.38 --> 4593.02] is we say things like, -[4593.64 --> 4595.90] I just need to slow down. -[4595.90 --> 4598.62] This is the promise -[4598.62 --> 4600.48] that peace will come -[4600.48 --> 4604.06] when life finally slows down. -[4604.14 --> 4604.88] The promise here -[4604.88 --> 4605.52] is the idea -[4605.52 --> 4608.10] that if life would become easier, -[4608.66 --> 4610.58] then I'll be able to breathe. -[4611.74 --> 4613.70] And so peace becomes imagined -[4613.70 --> 4615.08] as the reward -[4615.08 --> 4619.06] for a perfectly organized calendar, -[4619.86 --> 4622.08] a beautifully balanced workload -[4622.08 --> 4623.60] and good health -[4623.60 --> 4625.16] and proper gym schedules, -[4625.56 --> 4627.04] cooperative children, -[4628.00 --> 4629.16] stable finances, -[4630.30 --> 4630.84] retirement. -[4632.48 --> 4632.68] Right? -[4632.70 --> 4633.60] The vision offered -[4633.60 --> 4634.00] is that -[4634.00 --> 4636.46] when things finally calm down, -[4636.58 --> 4638.18] then I will have peace. -[4638.68 --> 4640.46] When the chaos finally lifts, -[4640.74 --> 4642.28] then your soul can rest. -[4642.36 --> 4643.54] When your schedule slows -[4643.54 --> 4644.92] or the seasons change, -[4645.04 --> 4646.66] then you can finally feel -[4646.66 --> 4647.92] like yourself again. -[4647.92 --> 4650.32] But this kind of peace -[4650.32 --> 4652.12] is always peace deferred. -[4652.94 --> 4653.40] Right? -[4653.46 --> 4654.28] Because even when -[4654.28 --> 4655.10] the current thing -[4655.10 --> 4655.88] that is upsetting -[4655.88 --> 4657.54] your peace concludes, -[4657.64 --> 4658.26] something else -[4658.26 --> 4659.04] is going to come along. -[4660.14 --> 4660.32] Right? -[4660.78 --> 4661.88] Here's an illustration -[4661.88 --> 4662.64] that's apropos -[4662.64 --> 4663.24] for this moment. -[4663.60 --> 4664.58] If you believe -[4664.58 --> 4665.52] that peace will come -[4665.52 --> 4666.24] when you finally -[4666.24 --> 4667.60] are able to buy a house, -[4668.38 --> 4669.02] within a year -[4669.02 --> 4669.82] of buying a house, -[4669.88 --> 4671.02] your furnace is going to break -[4671.02 --> 4671.58] and you're going to need -[4671.58 --> 4672.10] a new roof. -[4672.54 --> 4673.44] Ask me how I know. -[4673.44 --> 4677.68] So here's the question -[4677.68 --> 4678.52] for us this Advent. -[4680.12 --> 4681.46] What does it look like -[4681.46 --> 4683.26] to have peace -[4683.26 --> 4685.88] when the furnace breaks? -[4686.76 --> 4687.92] Not after it's fixed. -[4689.62 --> 4690.58] What does it look like -[4690.58 --> 4691.42] to have peace -[4691.42 --> 4692.62] that isn't dependent -[4692.62 --> 4694.14] upon my feelings -[4694.14 --> 4695.06] about myself -[4695.06 --> 4695.96] or a peace -[4695.96 --> 4696.82] that doesn't change -[4696.82 --> 4697.66] with my moods -[4697.66 --> 4698.82] or with the affirmation -[4698.82 --> 4699.32] of others? -[4699.74 --> 4700.68] What does it look like -[4700.68 --> 4701.50] to have a peace -[4701.50 --> 4702.90] that we can have -[4702.90 --> 4703.94] and live in the midst -[4703.94 --> 4705.10] of right now? -[4705.22 --> 4705.88] In the midst -[4705.88 --> 4707.08] of all the responsibilities -[4707.08 --> 4707.82] of life? -[4707.88 --> 4708.26] In the midst -[4708.26 --> 4709.24] of all the noise -[4709.24 --> 4710.58] that's going on around us? -[4710.62 --> 4711.04] In the midst -[4711.04 --> 4711.72] of the chaos -[4711.72 --> 4712.90] that's even bouncing -[4712.90 --> 4714.06] in my own brain? -[4714.58 --> 4715.72] Is there a peace -[4715.72 --> 4718.56] that can be present there? -[4721.38 --> 4722.36] If the peace -[4722.36 --> 4723.56] we long for -[4723.56 --> 4725.44] keeps falling apart -[4725.44 --> 4726.38] the moment -[4726.38 --> 4728.10] our plans fall apart, -[4728.26 --> 4729.60] then something is wrong -[4729.60 --> 4730.72] with the kind of peace -[4730.72 --> 4731.58] we are chasing. -[4732.90 --> 4734.22] We don't need a peace -[4734.22 --> 4734.92] that only works -[4734.92 --> 4736.32] when life cooperates. -[4736.54 --> 4737.46] We need a peace -[4737.46 --> 4738.30] strong enough -[4738.30 --> 4739.40] to hold -[4739.40 --> 4741.14] when life doesn't cooperate. -[4741.78 --> 4742.62] If peace -[4742.62 --> 4743.58] can only exist -[4743.58 --> 4744.82] when life slows down -[4744.82 --> 4746.16] or after we find ourselves -[4746.16 --> 4747.04] or after we escape -[4747.04 --> 4747.54] the pressure, -[4747.74 --> 4748.40] then peace -[4748.40 --> 4749.90] is always out of reach. -[4751.04 --> 4752.08] But scripture -[4752.08 --> 4753.50] keeps pointing us -[4753.50 --> 4755.68] to a different reality. -[4756.88 --> 4756.96] Right? -[4757.04 --> 4757.66] God keeps -[4757.66 --> 4759.32] bringing peace -[4759.32 --> 4759.90] to people -[4759.90 --> 4761.06] not by protecting -[4761.06 --> 4762.24] our plans -[4762.24 --> 4763.56] but by interrupting -[4763.56 --> 4763.98] them, -[4764.20 --> 4765.40] by redirecting -[4765.40 --> 4765.62] them, -[4765.64 --> 4766.66] and by reshaping -[4766.66 --> 4766.98] them. -[4768.50 --> 4769.12] The theme -[4769.12 --> 4769.74] that I want us -[4769.74 --> 4770.54] to see this morning -[4770.54 --> 4771.38] in the stories -[4771.38 --> 4772.34] of Joseph and Mary -[4772.34 --> 4773.44] as examples -[4773.44 --> 4773.92] of this -[4773.92 --> 4775.04] is that true -[4775.04 --> 4776.06] peace comes -[4776.06 --> 4777.54] when we yield -[4777.54 --> 4778.18] ourselves -[4778.18 --> 4779.34] to God's will, -[4780.04 --> 4780.78] even -[4780.78 --> 4782.26] when it disrupts -[4782.26 --> 4782.78] our plans. -[4784.12 --> 4784.74] True peace -[4784.74 --> 4785.50] comes when we -[4785.50 --> 4786.44] yield ourselves -[4786.44 --> 4787.82] to God's will. -[4787.82 --> 4789.34] This is the story -[4789.34 --> 4789.88] of Mary -[4789.88 --> 4790.98] and Joseph. -[4791.94 --> 4792.68] Nothing really -[4792.68 --> 4793.38] goes according -[4793.38 --> 4794.20] to their plans -[4794.20 --> 4796.10] yet everything -[4796.10 --> 4797.24] unfolds -[4797.24 --> 4797.78] according to -[4797.78 --> 4798.62] God's will. -[4799.98 --> 4800.72] Their peace -[4800.72 --> 4801.56] is not -[4801.56 --> 4802.12] the peace -[4802.12 --> 4802.96] of control, -[4803.32 --> 4804.28] it is the peace -[4804.28 --> 4805.18] of trust. -[4806.14 --> 4807.16] Of trust -[4807.16 --> 4807.76] when there is -[4807.76 --> 4808.70] no control. -[4809.64 --> 4810.24] When we step -[4810.24 --> 4811.00] into the world -[4811.00 --> 4811.58] of Mary -[4811.58 --> 4812.72] and Joseph -[4812.72 --> 4813.52] we have to -[4813.52 --> 4814.22] remember -[4814.22 --> 4815.32] that their lives -[4815.32 --> 4815.86] and their world -[4815.86 --> 4816.56] look very different -[4816.56 --> 4817.00] than ours. -[4817.00 --> 4819.38] a betrothal -[4819.38 --> 4820.20] in their day, -[4820.30 --> 4821.04] a wedding engagement -[4821.04 --> 4821.72] in their day -[4821.72 --> 4822.58] does not look -[4822.58 --> 4823.72] like a modern day -[4823.72 --> 4824.34] engagement. -[4825.96 --> 4827.08] The practice -[4827.08 --> 4827.88] in their day -[4827.88 --> 4828.44] begins -[4828.44 --> 4829.72] with a formal -[4829.72 --> 4830.32] arrangement -[4830.32 --> 4831.28] between two -[4831.28 --> 4831.96] families. -[4832.76 --> 4833.82] One promising -[4833.82 --> 4834.78] their son -[4834.78 --> 4835.86] and the other -[4835.86 --> 4836.72] their daughter -[4836.72 --> 4837.54] in marriage. -[4838.88 --> 4839.46] And once -[4839.46 --> 4840.30] this agreement -[4840.30 --> 4841.74] is made -[4841.74 --> 4842.54] and sealed -[4842.54 --> 4843.70] with a bride -[4843.70 --> 4844.28] price -[4844.28 --> 4845.90] it was considered -[4845.90 --> 4846.46] binding. -[4847.00 --> 4848.58] so binding -[4848.58 --> 4849.34] actually -[4849.34 --> 4850.10] that the only -[4850.10 --> 4851.24] way to break -[4851.24 --> 4852.18] the betrothal -[4852.18 --> 4853.02] was through -[4853.02 --> 4853.48] death -[4853.48 --> 4854.94] or divorce. -[4856.26 --> 4856.74] Right? -[4856.80 --> 4857.52] The bride price -[4857.52 --> 4858.12] would be paid -[4858.12 --> 4858.84] by the groom's -[4858.84 --> 4859.18] family -[4859.18 --> 4860.00] and from that -[4860.00 --> 4860.80] moment on -[4860.80 --> 4861.84] the young woman -[4861.84 --> 4862.64] is legally -[4862.64 --> 4863.36] regarded -[4863.36 --> 4865.00] as his wife -[4865.00 --> 4865.80] even if they -[4865.80 --> 4866.32] haven't yet -[4866.32 --> 4867.14] consummated -[4867.14 --> 4868.00] the marriage -[4868.00 --> 4868.84] even actually -[4868.84 --> 4869.46] if they haven't -[4869.46 --> 4870.30] yet started -[4870.30 --> 4871.18] living together. -[4871.18 --> 4871.26] together. -[4872.26 --> 4873.02] So the betrothal -[4873.02 --> 4873.54] would happen -[4873.54 --> 4874.44] and the couple -[4874.44 --> 4875.34] would live apart -[4875.34 --> 4876.84] for about a year -[4876.84 --> 4878.60] before they would -[4878.60 --> 4879.44] come together. -[4881.60 --> 4882.44] They would live -[4882.44 --> 4883.16] for about a year -[4883.16 --> 4884.00] in their parents' -[4884.50 --> 4884.76] houses -[4884.76 --> 4885.54] and then they -[4885.54 --> 4885.94] wouldn't -[4885.94 --> 4886.92] consummate the -[4886.92 --> 4887.16] marriage -[4887.16 --> 4887.86] until after -[4887.86 --> 4888.96] the ceremony. -[4889.08 --> 4889.40] Now Luke -[4889.40 --> 4890.22] doesn't tell us -[4890.22 --> 4890.62] this -[4890.62 --> 4892.34] doesn't tell us -[4892.34 --> 4893.26] Mary's age -[4893.26 --> 4894.68] but it wasn't -[4894.68 --> 4895.14] uncommon -[4895.14 --> 4895.90] for girls -[4895.90 --> 4897.36] at that time -[4897.36 --> 4898.32] to enter -[4898.32 --> 4899.74] the betrothal -[4899.74 --> 4900.18] period -[4900.18 --> 4901.18] as young -[4901.18 --> 4901.92] as 12 -[4901.92 --> 4902.60] or 13. -[4904.90 --> 4905.36] Now this -[4905.36 --> 4907.16] is the world -[4907.16 --> 4907.86] that Mary -[4907.86 --> 4909.14] is living in -[4909.14 --> 4910.58] betrothed -[4910.58 --> 4911.24] but not yet -[4911.24 --> 4911.66] moved out -[4911.66 --> 4912.22] of her parents' -[4912.36 --> 4912.64] house -[4912.64 --> 4913.80] when the angel -[4913.80 --> 4914.68] appears to her. -[4915.50 --> 4916.36] A young woman -[4916.36 --> 4917.60] still in her parents' -[4918.08 --> 4918.70] house -[4918.70 --> 4919.78] still under their -[4919.78 --> 4920.06] roof -[4920.06 --> 4921.24] but in a legally -[4921.24 --> 4922.38] binding marriage -[4922.38 --> 4922.88] agreement -[4922.88 --> 4924.04] with a ceremony -[4924.04 --> 4924.72] yet to come. -[4925.50 --> 4926.36] She has a path -[4926.36 --> 4927.08] before her -[4927.08 --> 4928.18] she has a plan -[4928.18 --> 4928.92] and a timeline -[4928.92 --> 4929.48] and there are -[4929.48 --> 4930.10] expectations -[4930.10 --> 4931.34] for herself -[4931.34 --> 4931.92] and from her -[4931.92 --> 4932.30] family -[4932.30 --> 4933.30] from Joseph's -[4933.30 --> 4933.62] family -[4933.62 --> 4934.24] about how -[4934.24 --> 4934.72] everything -[4934.72 --> 4935.88] would unfold -[4935.88 --> 4936.52] and then -[4936.52 --> 4938.26] God interrupts. -[4940.16 --> 4940.90] The angel -[4940.90 --> 4941.60] comes and -[4941.60 --> 4942.22] announces -[4942.22 --> 4943.34] a calling -[4943.34 --> 4943.90] that will -[4943.90 --> 4944.48] turn her -[4944.48 --> 4945.26] world upside -[4945.26 --> 4945.70] down. -[4946.54 --> 4947.30] Her reputation -[4947.30 --> 4947.84] will be -[4947.84 --> 4948.28] questioned -[4948.28 --> 4949.08] Joseph -[4949.08 --> 4949.66] will be -[4949.66 --> 4950.24] confused -[4950.24 --> 4951.06] her future -[4951.06 --> 4951.66] will not -[4951.66 --> 4952.24] unfold -[4952.24 --> 4953.74] in any way -[4953.74 --> 4954.22] near -[4954.22 --> 4954.90] what the -[4954.90 --> 4955.82] first century -[4955.82 --> 4956.20] Jewish -[4956.20 --> 4956.76] family -[4956.76 --> 4957.20] would have -[4957.20 --> 4957.80] mapped out -[4957.80 --> 4958.26] for her -[4958.26 --> 4958.88] in that -[4958.88 --> 4959.22] time. -[4960.52 --> 4961.20] And how -[4961.20 --> 4961.56] does Mary -[4961.56 --> 4962.14] respond? -[4964.40 --> 4965.06] Luke tells -[4965.06 --> 4965.44] us -[4965.44 --> 4966.50] that she -[4966.50 --> 4967.10] receives -[4967.10 --> 4968.30] the angel's -[4968.30 --> 4968.68] word -[4968.68 --> 4969.68] with a -[4969.68 --> 4970.34] wholehearted -[4970.34 --> 4970.92] willingness -[4970.92 --> 4971.76] to serve -[4971.76 --> 4972.72] God. -[4973.72 --> 4974.30] Right? -[4974.40 --> 4975.26] She steps -[4975.26 --> 4976.16] into God's -[4976.16 --> 4976.60] plan -[4976.60 --> 4977.58] without hesitation. -[4977.82 --> 4978.60] She asks -[4978.60 --> 4979.22] a question -[4979.22 --> 4980.02] of clarification -[4980.02 --> 4981.00] and then she -[4981.00 --> 4981.60] doesn't bargain -[4981.60 --> 4982.40] or stall -[4982.40 --> 4983.04] or ask for -[4983.04 --> 4983.50] more time -[4983.50 --> 4983.94] to think -[4983.94 --> 4983.96] to think. -[4983.96 --> 4984.44] She -[4984.44 --> 4985.06] yields -[4985.06 --> 4987.24] and in -[4987.24 --> 4987.90] so doing -[4987.90 --> 4988.98] she embodies -[4988.98 --> 4989.86] the posture -[4989.86 --> 4990.76] of a true -[4990.76 --> 4991.32] disciple. -[4992.22 --> 4992.32] Right? -[4992.38 --> 4993.48] An unreserved -[4993.48 --> 4994.18] willingness -[4994.18 --> 4995.16] to be -[4995.16 --> 4996.20] the Lord's -[4996.20 --> 4996.90] servant. -[4998.26 --> 4998.92] Her peace -[4998.92 --> 4999.62] doesn't come -[4999.62 --> 5000.02] from -[5000.02 --> 5001.20] predictability -[5001.20 --> 5002.16] or from -[5002.16 --> 5002.94] staying in -[5002.94 --> 5003.70] control of -[5003.70 --> 5004.12] how her -[5004.12 --> 5005.26] life unfolds -[5005.26 --> 5006.12] or from -[5006.12 --> 5007.12] her circumstances -[5007.12 --> 5007.72] aligning -[5007.72 --> 5008.24] with her -[5008.24 --> 5008.90] expectations. -[5009.36 --> 5009.94] Her peace -[5009.94 --> 5010.92] comes from -[5010.92 --> 5011.90] her saying -[5011.90 --> 5013.04] let it be -[5013.04 --> 5013.68] to me -[5013.68 --> 5014.26] according -[5014.26 --> 5015.18] to your -[5015.18 --> 5015.86] word. -[5017.46 --> 5018.76] Her plans -[5018.76 --> 5019.36] change -[5019.36 --> 5020.88] but she -[5020.88 --> 5021.54] remains -[5021.54 --> 5022.40] held. -[5023.70 --> 5024.70] Her ideas -[5024.70 --> 5025.98] are transformed -[5025.98 --> 5027.48] but God's -[5027.48 --> 5027.92] word -[5027.92 --> 5028.80] is sure. -[5030.66 --> 5031.38] Mary shows -[5031.38 --> 5031.94] us the -[5031.94 --> 5032.58] shape of -[5032.58 --> 5033.08] advent -[5033.08 --> 5033.74] peace. -[5034.12 --> 5034.22] Right? -[5034.28 --> 5034.64] Not the -[5034.64 --> 5035.64] quiet life -[5035.64 --> 5037.22] the quiet -[5037.22 --> 5037.80] of a life -[5037.80 --> 5038.50] untroubled -[5038.50 --> 5039.34] but the -[5039.34 --> 5039.74] deep -[5039.74 --> 5040.90] steadfast -[5040.90 --> 5042.08] of a -[5042.08 --> 5042.46] life -[5042.46 --> 5043.22] surrendered. -[5045.92 --> 5046.80] Now if -[5046.80 --> 5047.40] Mary shows -[5047.40 --> 5048.02] us what -[5048.02 --> 5048.48] surrender -[5048.48 --> 5049.20] looks like -[5049.20 --> 5050.02] from within -[5050.02 --> 5050.70] the disruption -[5050.70 --> 5052.02] Joseph -[5052.02 --> 5054.08] shows us -[5054.08 --> 5054.54] what -[5054.54 --> 5055.06] surrender -[5055.06 --> 5055.98] looks like -[5055.98 --> 5056.94] from outside -[5056.94 --> 5057.42] of it -[5057.42 --> 5058.28] from the -[5058.28 --> 5058.96] place of -[5058.96 --> 5059.46] confusion -[5059.46 --> 5060.32] and hurt -[5060.32 --> 5061.26] and uncertainty. -[5062.36 --> 5063.06] Matthew -[5063.06 --> 5064.06] now he's -[5064.06 --> 5064.38] telling -[5064.38 --> 5065.26] Joseph's -[5065.26 --> 5065.76] side of -[5065.76 --> 5066.24] the story -[5066.24 --> 5066.54] and he -[5066.54 --> 5066.88] does so -[5066.88 --> 5067.28] with a -[5067.28 --> 5067.76] remarkable -[5067.76 --> 5068.54] restraint. -[5069.66 --> 5070.02] Joseph -[5070.02 --> 5070.52] and Mary -[5070.52 --> 5071.36] again are -[5071.36 --> 5071.96] already -[5071.96 --> 5072.56] legally -[5072.56 --> 5073.10] bound -[5073.10 --> 5073.60] in -[5073.60 --> 5074.44] betrothal -[5074.44 --> 5075.36] and from -[5075.36 --> 5075.78] his -[5075.78 --> 5076.48] perspective -[5076.48 --> 5076.82] from -[5076.82 --> 5077.34] Joseph's -[5077.34 --> 5077.74] perspective -[5077.74 --> 5078.28] the path -[5078.28 --> 5078.76] is clear. -[5079.28 --> 5079.72] There's a -[5079.72 --> 5080.46] wedding ceremony -[5080.46 --> 5080.92] ahead. -[5081.26 --> 5081.58] There is a -[5081.58 --> 5082.04] home to -[5082.04 --> 5082.42] prepare -[5082.42 --> 5083.28] a future -[5083.28 --> 5083.90] to build. -[5084.04 --> 5084.30] Joseph -[5084.30 --> 5084.82] at this -[5084.82 --> 5085.32] time is -[5085.32 --> 5085.82] probably -[5085.82 --> 5086.92] building out -[5086.92 --> 5087.38] the furniture -[5087.38 --> 5087.84] he needs -[5087.84 --> 5088.16] for his -[5088.16 --> 5088.46] own -[5088.46 --> 5089.36] family -[5089.36 --> 5090.14] and life -[5090.14 --> 5091.40] and then -[5091.40 --> 5092.48] he learns -[5092.48 --> 5093.20] that Mary -[5093.20 --> 5094.00] is pregnant -[5094.00 --> 5096.08] and he -[5096.08 --> 5096.50] knows that -[5096.50 --> 5096.80] he's not -[5096.80 --> 5097.24] the father. -[5098.90 --> 5099.38] Everything -[5099.38 --> 5099.98] he thought -[5099.98 --> 5100.72] he understood -[5100.72 --> 5101.64] about life -[5101.64 --> 5102.32] in that -[5102.32 --> 5102.74] moment -[5102.74 --> 5103.52] collapses. -[5105.66 --> 5106.14] Now again -[5106.14 --> 5106.78] under the -[5106.78 --> 5107.16] law -[5107.16 --> 5107.64] Joseph -[5107.64 --> 5108.12] has -[5108.12 --> 5109.24] options -[5109.24 --> 5109.78] and these -[5109.78 --> 5110.14] options -[5110.14 --> 5110.60] include -[5110.60 --> 5111.00] public -[5111.00 --> 5111.82] accusation -[5111.82 --> 5112.36] they include -[5112.36 --> 5112.72] legal -[5112.72 --> 5113.42] consequences -[5113.42 --> 5114.44] they include -[5114.44 --> 5114.98] the full -[5114.98 --> 5115.58] weight of -[5115.58 --> 5116.22] the community -[5116.22 --> 5116.68] brought -[5116.68 --> 5117.18] against -[5117.18 --> 5117.88] Mary -[5117.88 --> 5119.68] but Matthew -[5119.68 --> 5120.20] describes -[5120.20 --> 5120.60] Joseph -[5120.60 --> 5121.58] as a -[5121.58 --> 5121.94] righteous -[5121.94 --> 5122.74] man -[5122.74 --> 5123.00] whose -[5123.00 --> 5123.54] instinct -[5123.54 --> 5123.90] isn't -[5123.90 --> 5124.64] to shame -[5124.64 --> 5125.30] but to -[5125.30 --> 5125.84] protect -[5125.84 --> 5127.34] and he -[5127.34 --> 5128.20] resolves -[5128.20 --> 5128.60] to then -[5128.60 --> 5129.48] dissolve -[5129.48 --> 5130.60] the betrothal -[5130.60 --> 5131.22] quietly -[5131.22 --> 5131.88] to divorce -[5131.88 --> 5132.56] her quietly -[5132.56 --> 5133.50] to shoulder -[5133.50 --> 5134.32] the confusion -[5134.32 --> 5134.94] himself -[5134.94 --> 5135.78] and to -[5135.78 --> 5137.90] spare her -[5137.90 --> 5138.48] as much -[5138.48 --> 5138.78] of the -[5138.78 --> 5139.30] disgrace -[5139.30 --> 5139.78] as he -[5139.78 --> 5140.00] can -[5140.00 --> 5141.62] but then -[5141.62 --> 5142.28] God -[5142.28 --> 5143.08] interrupts -[5143.08 --> 5143.48] him -[5143.48 --> 5144.12] too -[5144.12 --> 5145.98] an angel -[5145.98 --> 5146.46] appears to -[5146.46 --> 5147.08] him in a -[5147.08 --> 5147.46] dream -[5147.46 --> 5148.26] and tells -[5148.26 --> 5148.50] him -[5148.50 --> 5148.90] what he -[5148.90 --> 5149.34] cannot -[5149.34 --> 5149.98] possibly -[5149.98 --> 5150.28] have -[5150.28 --> 5150.60] guessed -[5150.60 --> 5150.80] that -[5150.80 --> 5151.22] this -[5151.22 --> 5151.66] child -[5151.66 --> 5151.90] is -[5151.90 --> 5152.04] from -[5152.04 --> 5152.18] the -[5152.18 --> 5152.38] Holy -[5152.38 --> 5152.88] Spirit -[5152.88 --> 5153.52] that -[5153.52 --> 5153.80] Mary -[5153.80 --> 5154.20] has -[5154.20 --> 5154.44] been -[5154.44 --> 5154.94] faithful -[5154.94 --> 5155.36] and -[5155.36 --> 5155.54] that -[5155.54 --> 5155.86] Joseph -[5155.86 --> 5156.14] is -[5156.14 --> 5156.40] being -[5156.40 --> 5156.74] called -[5156.74 --> 5157.02] into -[5157.02 --> 5157.28] a -[5157.28 --> 5157.60] story -[5157.60 --> 5158.36] far -[5158.36 --> 5158.94] greater -[5158.94 --> 5159.28] and -[5159.28 --> 5159.72] larger -[5159.72 --> 5160.22] than -[5160.22 --> 5160.34] he -[5160.34 --> 5160.50] could -[5160.50 --> 5160.88] imagine -[5160.88 --> 5162.16] and it's -[5162.16 --> 5162.66] a call -[5162.66 --> 5163.76] that will -[5163.76 --> 5164.24] reshape -[5164.24 --> 5165.06] his life -[5165.06 --> 5166.42] even as -[5166.42 --> 5167.20] it reshapes -[5167.20 --> 5167.90] Mary's -[5167.90 --> 5168.56] a call -[5168.56 --> 5169.86] to take -[5169.86 --> 5170.28] Mary -[5170.28 --> 5170.74] as his -[5170.74 --> 5171.06] wife -[5171.06 --> 5171.42] and to -[5171.42 --> 5171.84] embrace -[5171.84 --> 5172.44] the child -[5172.44 --> 5172.78] that she -[5172.78 --> 5173.18] carries -[5173.18 --> 5173.82] to name -[5173.82 --> 5174.08] him -[5174.08 --> 5174.60] Jesus -[5174.60 --> 5175.82] the one -[5175.82 --> 5176.26] who will -[5176.26 --> 5176.58] save -[5176.58 --> 5177.26] his people -[5177.26 --> 5177.78] from -[5177.78 --> 5178.00] their -[5178.00 --> 5178.36] sins -[5178.36 --> 5180.40] now -[5180.40 --> 5180.76] again -[5180.76 --> 5181.12] I think -[5181.12 --> 5181.28] it's -[5181.28 --> 5181.50] really -[5181.50 --> 5182.00] important -[5182.00 --> 5182.44] for us -[5182.44 --> 5182.68] to -[5182.68 --> 5183.32] to -[5183.32 --> 5183.66] wrestle -[5183.66 --> 5184.22] with -[5184.22 --> 5184.66] how -[5184.66 --> 5185.44] costly -[5185.44 --> 5186.22] this -[5186.22 --> 5186.76] obedience -[5186.76 --> 5187.50] is -[5187.50 --> 5189.76] by taking -[5189.76 --> 5190.22] Mary -[5190.22 --> 5190.72] as his -[5190.72 --> 5191.16] wife -[5191.16 --> 5191.58] Joseph -[5191.58 --> 5191.98] is -[5191.98 --> 5192.70] publicly -[5192.70 --> 5193.36] accepting -[5193.36 --> 5194.28] the shame -[5194.28 --> 5195.16] that others -[5195.16 --> 5195.92] will assume -[5195.92 --> 5196.38] belongs -[5196.38 --> 5196.80] to him -[5196.80 --> 5198.60] he's -[5198.60 --> 5198.86] stepping -[5198.86 --> 5199.40] into a -[5199.40 --> 5199.78] lifetime -[5199.78 --> 5200.88] of sideways -[5200.88 --> 5201.90] glances -[5201.90 --> 5203.14] of whispered -[5203.14 --> 5203.68] judgments -[5203.68 --> 5204.48] and questions -[5204.48 --> 5205.24] that he -[5205.24 --> 5205.54] cannot -[5205.54 --> 5205.94] answer -[5205.94 --> 5208.26] and we -[5208.26 --> 5208.80] know that -[5208.80 --> 5209.34] this shame -[5209.34 --> 5210.20] didn't simply -[5210.20 --> 5211.06] hover over -[5211.06 --> 5211.50] Joseph -[5211.50 --> 5212.12] it also -[5212.12 --> 5212.46] hovered -[5212.46 --> 5212.70] over -[5212.70 --> 5213.14] Mary -[5213.14 --> 5214.06] and -[5214.06 --> 5214.88] in fact -[5214.88 --> 5215.60] it follows -[5215.60 --> 5216.06] Jesus -[5216.06 --> 5216.64] into -[5216.64 --> 5217.30] adulthood -[5217.30 --> 5219.18] the gospel -[5219.18 --> 5219.78] of John -[5219.78 --> 5220.42] records a -[5220.42 --> 5220.76] story -[5220.76 --> 5221.96] and in -[5221.96 --> 5222.62] that moment -[5222.62 --> 5223.26] Jesus -[5223.26 --> 5224.16] is confronted -[5224.16 --> 5224.70] by a -[5224.70 --> 5225.08] hostile -[5225.08 --> 5225.74] crowd -[5225.74 --> 5226.92] and they -[5226.92 --> 5227.54] say to -[5227.54 --> 5227.92] Jesus -[5227.92 --> 5228.64] as part -[5228.64 --> 5228.90] of their -[5228.90 --> 5229.40] exchange -[5229.40 --> 5230.20] we are -[5230.20 --> 5230.52] not -[5230.52 --> 5231.26] illegitimate -[5231.26 --> 5231.72] children -[5231.72 --> 5233.72] this is -[5233.72 --> 5233.96] John -[5233.96 --> 5234.28] 8 -[5234.28 --> 5234.74] 41 -[5234.74 --> 5236.00] and so -[5236.00 --> 5236.36] this is -[5236.36 --> 5237.00] more than -[5237.00 --> 5238.16] a theological -[5238.16 --> 5239.00] posturing -[5239.00 --> 5239.98] it is a -[5239.98 --> 5240.34] pointed -[5240.34 --> 5240.94] reminder -[5240.94 --> 5241.70] to Jesus -[5241.70 --> 5242.70] about the -[5242.70 --> 5243.04] rumors -[5243.04 --> 5244.02] that have -[5244.02 --> 5244.74] gone around -[5244.74 --> 5245.42] surrounding -[5245.42 --> 5246.02] his birth -[5246.02 --> 5247.18] right -[5247.18 --> 5247.88] the suspicion -[5247.88 --> 5248.58] that Joseph -[5248.58 --> 5249.14] feared -[5249.14 --> 5249.72] the whispers -[5249.72 --> 5250.08] that he -[5250.08 --> 5250.52] absorbed -[5250.52 --> 5251.14] into himself -[5251.14 --> 5251.72] so that -[5251.72 --> 5252.20] Mary would -[5252.20 --> 5252.54] not bear -[5252.54 --> 5253.04] them alone -[5253.04 --> 5253.68] the shadows -[5253.68 --> 5254.60] cast over -[5254.60 --> 5255.12] his family -[5255.12 --> 5255.98] all of it -[5255.98 --> 5256.64] resurfaces -[5256.64 --> 5256.98] here -[5256.98 --> 5257.70] decades -[5257.70 --> 5258.10] later -[5258.10 --> 5258.60] and an -[5258.60 --> 5259.08] insult -[5259.08 --> 5259.62] aimed at -[5259.62 --> 5260.02] Jesus -[5260.02 --> 5262.04] Joseph's -[5262.04 --> 5262.46] anxiety -[5262.46 --> 5262.82] in this -[5262.82 --> 5263.12] moment -[5263.12 --> 5263.66] is not -[5263.66 --> 5264.26] imaginary -[5264.26 --> 5265.30] the social -[5265.30 --> 5265.86] cost -[5265.86 --> 5266.60] is real -[5266.60 --> 5267.14] and it -[5267.14 --> 5267.72] lands not -[5267.72 --> 5268.28] only on -[5268.28 --> 5268.62] him -[5268.62 --> 5269.16] but also -[5269.16 --> 5269.50] on the -[5269.50 --> 5269.96] child -[5269.96 --> 5270.50] that he -[5270.50 --> 5270.66] is -[5270.66 --> 5270.98] commanded -[5270.98 --> 5271.48] to raise -[5271.48 --> 5273.62] Joseph's -[5273.62 --> 5274.14] obedience -[5274.14 --> 5275.18] just like -[5275.18 --> 5275.74] Mary's -[5275.74 --> 5275.98] means -[5275.98 --> 5276.50] willingly -[5276.50 --> 5277.04] stepping -[5277.04 --> 5277.38] into -[5277.38 --> 5278.18] a story -[5278.18 --> 5279.12] that others -[5279.12 --> 5279.40] would -[5279.40 --> 5280.48] weaponize -[5280.48 --> 5280.86] against -[5280.86 --> 5281.52] his family -[5281.52 --> 5282.46] for years -[5282.46 --> 5284.46] and Jesus -[5284.46 --> 5284.98] himself -[5284.98 --> 5285.80] as an -[5285.80 --> 5286.24] adult -[5286.24 --> 5287.32] bore -[5287.32 --> 5288.20] the echo -[5288.20 --> 5288.86] of the -[5288.86 --> 5289.40] shame -[5289.40 --> 5289.86] Joseph -[5289.86 --> 5290.20] had -[5290.20 --> 5290.72] absorbed -[5290.72 --> 5291.08] and -[5291.08 --> 5291.64] protected -[5291.64 --> 5292.64] Mary -[5292.64 --> 5293.00] from -[5293.00 --> 5294.50] and yet -[5294.50 --> 5295.00] Joseph -[5295.00 --> 5296.24] obeys -[5296.24 --> 5297.24] anyway -[5297.24 --> 5300.28] Matthew -[5300.28 --> 5300.62] writes -[5300.62 --> 5300.96] that when -[5300.96 --> 5301.42] Joseph -[5301.42 --> 5301.78] wakes -[5301.78 --> 5301.98] from -[5301.98 --> 5302.14] the -[5302.14 --> 5302.44] dream -[5302.44 --> 5302.74] he -[5302.74 --> 5302.92] does -[5302.92 --> 5303.36] exactly -[5303.36 --> 5303.64] as -[5303.64 --> 5303.80] the -[5303.80 --> 5304.08] angel -[5304.08 --> 5304.62] commands -[5304.62 --> 5305.16] no -[5305.16 --> 5305.64] delays -[5305.64 --> 5305.98] no -[5305.98 --> 5306.44] hedging -[5306.44 --> 5306.92] no -[5306.92 --> 5307.28] attempt -[5307.28 --> 5307.52] to -[5307.52 --> 5307.88] preserve -[5307.88 --> 5308.12] his -[5308.12 --> 5308.44] image -[5308.44 --> 5308.82] he -[5308.82 --> 5309.34] receives -[5309.34 --> 5309.80] God's -[5309.80 --> 5310.08] will -[5310.08 --> 5310.36] as -[5310.36 --> 5310.52] the -[5310.52 --> 5310.74] new -[5310.74 --> 5311.10] shape -[5311.10 --> 5311.34] of -[5311.34 --> 5311.58] his -[5311.58 --> 5312.00] life -[5312.00 --> 5313.52] Joseph -[5313.52 --> 5313.76] is -[5313.76 --> 5313.98] showing -[5313.98 --> 5314.18] us -[5314.18 --> 5314.42] another -[5314.42 --> 5314.94] face -[5314.94 --> 5315.30] of -[5315.30 --> 5315.78] advent -[5315.78 --> 5316.40] peace -[5316.40 --> 5316.92] right -[5316.92 --> 5317.20] it's -[5317.20 --> 5317.36] not -[5317.36 --> 5317.80] the peace -[5317.80 --> 5317.94] of -[5317.94 --> 5318.58] understanding -[5318.58 --> 5319.20] everything -[5319.20 --> 5319.82] that God -[5319.82 --> 5320.56] is doing -[5320.56 --> 5320.78] it's -[5320.78 --> 5320.92] not -[5320.92 --> 5321.32] the peace -[5321.32 --> 5321.72] of having -[5321.72 --> 5322.14] all your -[5322.14 --> 5322.54] questions -[5322.54 --> 5322.96] resolved -[5322.96 --> 5323.50] it's -[5323.50 --> 5323.94] the peace -[5323.94 --> 5324.70] of trust -[5324.70 --> 5325.46] entrusting -[5325.46 --> 5326.12] your name -[5326.12 --> 5326.50] and your -[5326.50 --> 5326.90] future -[5326.90 --> 5327.30] and your -[5327.30 --> 5327.64] place -[5327.64 --> 5328.02] in the -[5328.02 --> 5328.32] world -[5328.32 --> 5329.12] to the -[5329.12 --> 5329.50] God -[5329.50 --> 5329.80] whose -[5329.80 --> 5330.36] wisdom -[5330.36 --> 5331.14] exceeds -[5331.14 --> 5331.60] our -[5331.60 --> 5332.44] understanding -[5332.44 --> 5334.38] Mary -[5334.38 --> 5334.96] yields -[5334.96 --> 5335.24] with -[5335.24 --> 5335.58] open -[5335.58 --> 5336.00] hands -[5336.00 --> 5336.56] and -[5336.56 --> 5337.06] Joseph -[5337.06 --> 5338.08] yields -[5338.08 --> 5338.38] with -[5338.38 --> 5338.78] wounded -[5338.78 --> 5339.16] but -[5339.16 --> 5339.64] obedient -[5339.64 --> 5340.46] trust -[5340.46 --> 5340.72] and -[5340.72 --> 5341.14] together -[5341.14 --> 5341.90] they -[5341.90 --> 5342.20] show -[5342.20 --> 5342.62] us -[5342.62 --> 5343.84] that -[5343.84 --> 5344.12] true -[5344.12 --> 5344.58] peace -[5344.58 --> 5344.98] comes -[5344.98 --> 5345.22] not -[5345.22 --> 5345.40] from -[5345.40 --> 5345.64] having -[5345.64 --> 5345.84] our -[5345.84 --> 5346.16] plans -[5346.16 --> 5346.64] confirmed -[5346.64 --> 5347.48] but -[5347.48 --> 5347.76] from -[5347.76 --> 5348.10] having -[5348.10 --> 5348.38] our -[5348.38 --> 5348.76] lives -[5348.76 --> 5349.62] reordered -[5349.62 --> 5349.92] by -[5349.92 --> 5350.14] the -[5350.14 --> 5350.44] will -[5350.44 --> 5351.18] of -[5351.18 --> 5351.52] God -[5351.52 --> 5353.94] now -[5353.94 --> 5355.76] when -[5355.76 --> 5356.06] we look -[5356.06 --> 5356.16] at -[5356.16 --> 5356.36] Mary -[5356.36 --> 5356.54] and -[5356.54 --> 5356.88] Joseph -[5356.88 --> 5358.00] it's -[5358.00 --> 5358.76] tempting -[5358.76 --> 5359.16] to -[5359.16 --> 5359.56] admire -[5359.56 --> 5360.00] them -[5360.00 --> 5360.68] from -[5360.68 --> 5360.86] a -[5360.86 --> 5361.28] distance -[5361.28 --> 5361.52] to -[5361.52 --> 5361.80] see -[5361.80 --> 5362.14] them -[5362.14 --> 5362.36] as -[5362.36 --> 5363.12] unusually -[5363.12 --> 5363.68] brave -[5363.68 --> 5364.36] unusually -[5364.36 --> 5364.92] faithful -[5364.92 --> 5365.58] and -[5365.58 --> 5366.04] uniquely -[5366.04 --> 5366.72] prepared -[5366.72 --> 5367.20] for -[5367.20 --> 5367.42] this -[5367.42 --> 5367.84] moment -[5367.84 --> 5368.80] and -[5368.80 --> 5368.96] to -[5368.96 --> 5369.16] be -[5369.16 --> 5369.58] clear -[5369.58 --> 5370.12] Mary -[5370.12 --> 5370.32] is -[5370.32 --> 5370.72] introduced -[5370.72 --> 5371.02] to -[5371.02 --> 5371.18] us -[5371.18 --> 5371.32] as -[5371.32 --> 5371.52] one -[5371.52 --> 5371.72] who -[5371.72 --> 5371.94] is -[5371.94 --> 5372.56] highly -[5372.56 --> 5373.48] favored -[5373.48 --> 5374.52] by -[5374.52 --> 5374.92] God -[5374.92 --> 5377.98] but -[5377.98 --> 5379.20] the -[5379.20 --> 5379.54] question -[5379.54 --> 5380.10] becomes -[5380.10 --> 5380.36] did -[5380.36 --> 5380.54] she -[5380.54 --> 5380.96] merit -[5380.96 --> 5381.28] that -[5381.28 --> 5381.64] favor -[5381.64 --> 5381.90] or -[5381.90 --> 5382.06] did -[5382.06 --> 5382.18] she -[5382.18 --> 5382.44] just -[5382.44 --> 5382.90] receive -[5382.90 --> 5383.20] it -[5383.20 --> 5385.04] right -[5385.04 --> 5385.32] because -[5385.32 --> 5385.56] to -[5385.56 --> 5386.04] think -[5386.04 --> 5386.30] that -[5386.30 --> 5386.64] they -[5386.64 --> 5387.38] are -[5387.38 --> 5387.92] anything -[5387.92 --> 5388.42] other -[5388.42 --> 5388.70] than -[5388.70 --> 5389.26] ordinary -[5389.26 --> 5389.78] people -[5389.78 --> 5390.30] who -[5390.30 --> 5390.50] are -[5390.50 --> 5390.94] yielding -[5390.94 --> 5391.30] themselves -[5391.30 --> 5391.48] to -[5391.48 --> 5391.62] an -[5391.62 --> 5392.04] extraordinary -[5392.04 --> 5392.54] God -[5392.54 --> 5393.16] is -[5393.16 --> 5393.42] to -[5393.42 --> 5393.96] mistake -[5393.96 --> 5394.16] the -[5394.16 --> 5394.38] point -[5394.38 --> 5394.48] of -[5394.48 --> 5394.60] the -[5394.60 --> 5395.00] story -[5395.00 --> 5396.04] right -[5396.04 --> 5396.24] Mary -[5396.24 --> 5396.42] and -[5396.42 --> 5396.64] Joseph -[5396.64 --> 5396.90] are -[5396.90 --> 5397.10] not -[5397.10 --> 5397.46] super -[5397.46 --> 5397.78] human -[5397.78 --> 5398.10] Mary -[5398.10 --> 5398.58] is -[5398.58 --> 5398.78] an -[5398.78 --> 5399.22] ordinary -[5399.22 --> 5399.62] woman -[5399.62 --> 5399.84] who -[5399.84 --> 5400.00] is -[5400.00 --> 5400.68] extraordinarily -[5400.68 --> 5401.44] blessed -[5401.44 --> 5401.90] to -[5401.90 --> 5402.24] become -[5402.24 --> 5402.48] the -[5402.48 --> 5402.70] mother -[5402.70 --> 5402.96] of -[5402.96 --> 5403.32] God -[5403.32 --> 5404.14] and -[5404.14 --> 5404.42] Mary -[5404.42 --> 5404.60] and -[5404.60 --> 5404.88] Joseph -[5404.88 --> 5405.10] are -[5405.10 --> 5405.44] ordinary -[5405.44 --> 5405.90] people -[5405.90 --> 5406.14] whose -[5406.14 --> 5406.54] lives -[5406.54 --> 5406.72] are -[5406.72 --> 5407.20] upended -[5407.20 --> 5407.48] by -[5407.48 --> 5407.84] God's -[5407.84 --> 5408.16] call -[5408.16 --> 5408.40] and -[5408.40 --> 5408.60] who -[5408.60 --> 5408.96] yet -[5408.96 --> 5409.74] trust -[5409.74 --> 5410.16] him -[5410.16 --> 5410.76] enough -[5410.76 --> 5411.04] to -[5411.04 --> 5411.42] yield -[5411.42 --> 5411.96] themselves -[5411.96 --> 5412.54] to -[5412.54 --> 5412.76] his -[5412.76 --> 5413.02] will -[5413.02 --> 5413.84] right -[5413.84 --> 5414.08] their -[5414.08 --> 5414.50] obedience -[5414.50 --> 5414.86] is -[5414.86 --> 5415.06] not -[5415.06 --> 5415.26] the -[5415.26 --> 5415.72] cause -[5415.72 --> 5416.02] of -[5416.02 --> 5416.40] God's -[5416.40 --> 5416.66] peace -[5416.66 --> 5416.86] in -[5416.86 --> 5416.98] their -[5416.98 --> 5417.22] lives -[5417.22 --> 5417.36] it -[5417.36 --> 5417.48] is -[5417.48 --> 5417.68] the -[5417.68 --> 5418.08] fruit -[5418.08 --> 5418.52] of -[5418.52 --> 5418.88] knowing -[5418.88 --> 5419.44] God -[5419.44 --> 5419.88] and -[5419.88 --> 5420.16] knowing -[5420.16 --> 5420.38] the -[5420.38 --> 5420.72] God -[5420.72 --> 5420.90] who -[5420.90 --> 5421.50] holds -[5421.50 --> 5421.88] them -[5421.88 --> 5422.20] in -[5422.20 --> 5422.60] his -[5422.60 --> 5423.18] hands -[5423.18 --> 5424.50] right -[5424.50 --> 5424.84] underneath -[5424.84 --> 5425.26] their -[5425.26 --> 5425.80] surrender -[5425.80 --> 5426.16] is -[5426.16 --> 5426.54] something -[5426.54 --> 5427.74] deeper -[5427.74 --> 5428.88] underneath -[5428.88 --> 5429.18] their -[5429.18 --> 5429.64] surrender -[5429.64 --> 5429.92] is -[5429.92 --> 5430.14] the -[5430.14 --> 5430.46] love -[5430.46 --> 5430.70] of -[5430.70 --> 5431.14] God -[5431.14 --> 5431.36] that -[5431.36 --> 5431.50] is -[5431.50 --> 5431.84] moving -[5431.84 --> 5432.46] towards -[5434.42 --> 5434.90] their -[5434.90 --> 5435.64] understanding -[5435.64 --> 5436.46] a love -[5436.46 --> 5436.58] that -[5436.58 --> 5436.84] doesn't -[5436.84 --> 5437.20] depend -[5437.20 --> 5437.44] on -[5437.44 --> 5437.60] their -[5437.60 --> 5438.00] strength -[5438.00 --> 5438.20] it's -[5438.20 --> 5438.56] a love -[5438.56 --> 5438.76] that -[5438.76 --> 5439.20] steps -[5439.20 --> 5439.62] into -[5439.62 --> 5439.88] their -[5439.88 --> 5440.50] confusion -[5440.50 --> 5441.12] and -[5441.12 --> 5441.38] says -[5441.38 --> 5441.72] do -[5441.72 --> 5442.16] not -[5442.16 --> 5442.52] be -[5442.52 --> 5443.08] afraid -[5443.08 --> 5444.10] for -[5444.10 --> 5444.32] the -[5444.32 --> 5444.72] Lord -[5444.72 --> 5445.38] is -[5445.38 --> 5445.64] with -[5445.64 --> 5445.90] you -[5445.90 --> 5447.44] and -[5447.44 --> 5447.68] that's -[5447.68 --> 5447.82] where -[5447.82 --> 5448.06] their -[5448.06 --> 5448.60] story -[5448.60 --> 5449.62] is -[5449.62 --> 5449.82] meant -[5449.82 --> 5450.02] to -[5450.02 --> 5450.32] draw -[5450.32 --> 5450.70] our -[5450.70 --> 5451.34] hearts -[5451.34 --> 5452.10] towards -[5452.10 --> 5452.72] the -[5452.72 --> 5453.10] center -[5453.10 --> 5453.42] of -[5453.42 --> 5453.60] the -[5453.60 --> 5454.00] gospel -[5454.00 --> 5455.78] right -[5455.78 --> 5456.04] because -[5456.04 --> 5456.56] Mary -[5456.56 --> 5457.46] and -[5457.46 --> 5457.78] the -[5457.78 --> 5458.18] child -[5458.18 --> 5458.42] that -[5458.42 --> 5458.62] she -[5458.62 --> 5459.04] carries -[5459.04 --> 5459.32] the -[5459.32 --> 5459.64] child -[5459.64 --> 5459.80] that -[5459.80 --> 5460.00] Mary -[5460.00 --> 5460.46] carries -[5460.46 --> 5460.64] the -[5460.64 --> 5460.86] very -[5460.86 --> 5461.46] child -[5461.46 --> 5461.72] who -[5461.72 --> 5462.46] is -[5462.46 --> 5463.26] disrupting -[5463.26 --> 5463.46] their -[5463.46 --> 5463.90] carefully -[5463.90 --> 5464.20] laid -[5464.20 --> 5464.68] plans -[5464.68 --> 5465.78] is -[5465.78 --> 5466.06] the -[5466.06 --> 5466.50] one -[5466.50 --> 5467.14] whose -[5467.14 --> 5467.80] entire -[5467.80 --> 5468.58] life -[5468.58 --> 5468.92] will -[5468.92 --> 5469.24] be -[5469.24 --> 5469.82] surrendered -[5469.82 --> 5470.82] for -[5470.82 --> 5471.26] us -[5471.26 --> 5473.14] Jesus -[5473.14 --> 5473.52] doesn't -[5473.52 --> 5473.84] simply -[5473.84 --> 5474.20] call -[5474.20 --> 5474.48] us -[5474.48 --> 5474.76] to -[5474.76 --> 5475.36] obedience -[5475.36 --> 5476.28] Jesus -[5476.28 --> 5477.06] embodies -[5477.06 --> 5477.94] obedience -[5477.94 --> 5479.36] he -[5479.36 --> 5479.78] yields -[5479.78 --> 5480.12] to the -[5480.12 --> 5480.42] father -[5480.42 --> 5480.68] in -[5480.68 --> 5481.12] every -[5481.12 --> 5481.52] place -[5481.52 --> 5481.70] that -[5481.70 --> 5481.86] we -[5481.86 --> 5482.32] resist -[5482.32 --> 5483.38] he -[5483.38 --> 5483.68] walks -[5483.68 --> 5483.88] the -[5483.88 --> 5484.16] path -[5484.16 --> 5484.30] of -[5484.30 --> 5484.64] trust -[5484.64 --> 5485.10] in -[5485.10 --> 5485.50] every -[5485.50 --> 5485.86] place -[5485.86 --> 5486.06] that -[5486.06 --> 5486.32] we -[5486.32 --> 5486.74] cling -[5486.74 --> 5486.96] to -[5486.96 --> 5487.40] control -[5487.40 --> 5488.66] he -[5488.66 --> 5489.18] embraces -[5489.18 --> 5489.42] the -[5489.42 --> 5489.64] will -[5489.64 --> 5489.82] of -[5489.82 --> 5490.10] God -[5490.10 --> 5490.70] even -[5490.70 --> 5490.96] when -[5490.96 --> 5491.14] it -[5491.14 --> 5491.66] costs -[5491.66 --> 5492.06] him -[5492.06 --> 5493.02] everything -[5493.02 --> 5494.98] where -[5494.98 --> 5495.58] Mary's -[5495.58 --> 5496.10] surrender -[5496.10 --> 5496.66] begins -[5496.66 --> 5496.96] the -[5496.96 --> 5497.38] story -[5497.38 --> 5497.84] Jesus -[5497.84 --> 5498.62] surrender -[5498.62 --> 5499.08] brings -[5499.08 --> 5499.30] it -[5499.30 --> 5499.62] to -[5499.62 --> 5500.24] its -[5500.24 --> 5500.82] climax -[5500.82 --> 5502.18] where -[5502.18 --> 5502.56] Joseph -[5502.56 --> 5503.06] bears -[5503.06 --> 5503.30] the -[5503.30 --> 5503.58] weight -[5503.58 --> 5503.86] of -[5503.86 --> 5504.22] shame -[5504.22 --> 5504.42] to -[5504.42 --> 5504.82] protect -[5504.82 --> 5505.18] Mary -[5505.18 --> 5505.88] Jesus -[5505.88 --> 5506.36] bears -[5506.36 --> 5506.64] the -[5506.64 --> 5506.92] weight -[5506.92 --> 5507.14] of -[5507.14 --> 5507.58] shame -[5507.58 --> 5507.98] and -[5507.98 --> 5508.46] sin -[5508.46 --> 5508.82] to -[5508.82 --> 5509.32] redeem -[5509.32 --> 5510.08] us -[5510.08 --> 5511.56] where -[5511.56 --> 5511.80] Mary -[5511.80 --> 5511.96] and -[5511.96 --> 5512.22] Joseph -[5512.22 --> 5512.62] trust -[5512.62 --> 5512.96] God -[5512.96 --> 5513.12] in -[5513.12 --> 5513.24] the -[5513.24 --> 5513.52] dark -[5513.52 --> 5513.98] Jesus -[5513.98 --> 5514.50] steps -[5514.50 --> 5514.84] into -[5514.84 --> 5515.10] the -[5515.10 --> 5515.52] deepest -[5515.52 --> 5516.28] darkness -[5516.28 --> 5516.64] he -[5516.64 --> 5517.02] bears -[5517.02 --> 5517.46] the -[5517.46 --> 5518.02] cross -[5518.02 --> 5518.64] and -[5518.64 --> 5519.40] entrusts -[5519.40 --> 5519.88] himself -[5519.88 --> 5520.46] fully -[5520.46 --> 5521.06] to -[5521.06 --> 5521.22] the -[5521.22 --> 5521.58] father -[5521.58 --> 5523.68] Jesus -[5523.68 --> 5524.20] entire -[5524.20 --> 5524.84] life -[5524.84 --> 5525.30] is -[5525.30 --> 5526.70] substitutionary -[5526.70 --> 5526.90] it's -[5526.90 --> 5527.10] for -[5527.10 --> 5527.50] you -[5527.50 --> 5527.66] and -[5527.66 --> 5527.84] me -[5527.84 --> 5528.04] he -[5528.04 --> 5528.84] lives -[5528.84 --> 5529.58] perfectly -[5529.58 --> 5530.28] obedient -[5530.28 --> 5530.78] fully -[5530.78 --> 5531.60] yielding -[5531.60 --> 5532.02] in -[5532.02 --> 5532.44] life -[5532.44 --> 5532.76] that -[5532.76 --> 5533.58] none -[5533.58 --> 5533.78] of -[5533.78 --> 5534.14] us -[5534.14 --> 5534.64] can -[5534.64 --> 5534.88] do -[5534.88 --> 5535.90] and -[5535.90 --> 5536.02] on -[5536.02 --> 5536.16] the -[5536.16 --> 5536.50] cross -[5536.50 --> 5536.72] he -[5536.72 --> 5537.18] offers -[5537.18 --> 5537.92] his -[5537.92 --> 5538.34] peace -[5538.34 --> 5538.58] in -[5538.58 --> 5539.18] exchange -[5539.18 --> 5539.64] for -[5539.64 --> 5539.96] our -[5539.96 --> 5540.64] unrest -[5540.64 --> 5541.28] his -[5541.28 --> 5541.78] righteousness -[5541.78 --> 5542.16] for -[5542.16 --> 5542.42] our -[5542.42 --> 5542.86] rebellion -[5542.86 --> 5543.16] his -[5543.16 --> 5543.56] holiness -[5543.56 --> 5543.92] for -[5543.92 --> 5544.14] our -[5544.14 --> 5544.80] fractured -[5544.80 --> 5545.12] selves -[5545.12 --> 5545.60] this -[5545.60 --> 5545.96] then -[5545.96 --> 5546.26] is -[5546.26 --> 5546.52] the -[5546.52 --> 5547.02] love -[5547.02 --> 5547.46] that -[5547.46 --> 5548.04] anchors -[5548.04 --> 5548.48] our -[5548.48 --> 5549.18] peace -[5549.18 --> 5549.42] that -[5549.42 --> 5549.58] the -[5549.58 --> 5549.80] son -[5549.80 --> 5549.96] of -[5549.96 --> 5550.22] God -[5550.22 --> 5550.38] did -[5550.38 --> 5550.54] not -[5550.54 --> 5550.86] simply -[5550.86 --> 5551.08] come -[5551.08 --> 5551.24] to -[5551.24 --> 5551.60] show -[5551.60 --> 5551.96] us -[5551.96 --> 5552.22] how -[5552.22 --> 5552.58] to -[5552.58 --> 5553.24] surrender -[5553.24 --> 5553.54] he -[5553.54 --> 5553.98] came -[5553.98 --> 5554.20] to -[5554.20 --> 5554.74] surrender -[5554.74 --> 5555.34] himself -[5555.34 --> 5556.06] for -[5556.06 --> 5556.54] us -[5556.54 --> 5556.80] he -[5556.80 --> 5557.10] came -[5557.10 --> 5557.30] to -[5557.30 --> 5557.58] live -[5557.58 --> 5557.76] the -[5557.76 --> 5558.04] life -[5558.04 --> 5558.20] I -[5558.20 --> 5558.38] should -[5558.38 --> 5558.50] have -[5558.50 --> 5558.74] lived -[5558.74 --> 5559.14] and -[5559.14 --> 5559.48] died -[5559.48 --> 5559.68] the -[5559.68 --> 5559.98] death -[5559.98 --> 5560.40] that -[5560.40 --> 5560.54] I -[5560.54 --> 5560.90] deserved -[5560.90 --> 5561.16] and -[5561.16 --> 5561.64] because -[5561.64 --> 5561.92] he -[5561.92 --> 5562.36] did -[5562.36 --> 5564.50] peace -[5564.50 --> 5564.94] is no -[5564.94 --> 5565.22] longer -[5565.22 --> 5565.56] something -[5565.56 --> 5565.80] we -[5565.80 --> 5566.32] achieve -[5566.32 --> 5566.62] by -[5566.62 --> 5567.38] managing -[5567.38 --> 5567.80] our -[5567.80 --> 5568.52] circumstances -[5568.52 --> 5568.88] or -[5568.88 --> 5569.38] mastering -[5569.38 --> 5569.86] our -[5569.86 --> 5570.38] inner -[5570.38 --> 5570.78] world -[5570.78 --> 5571.18] peace -[5571.18 --> 5571.42] is -[5571.42 --> 5571.76] something -[5571.76 --> 5572.54] given -[5572.54 --> 5572.96] something -[5572.96 --> 5573.76] purchased -[5573.76 --> 5574.14] by -[5574.14 --> 5574.76] Christ -[5574.76 --> 5575.42] and -[5575.42 --> 5575.94] secured -[5575.94 --> 5576.32] by -[5576.32 --> 5576.60] his -[5576.60 --> 5577.20] resurrection -[5577.20 --> 5577.88] and -[5577.88 --> 5578.34] poured -[5578.34 --> 5578.86] into -[5578.86 --> 5579.32] our -[5579.32 --> 5579.68] hearts -[5579.68 --> 5579.98] and -[5579.98 --> 5580.40] lives -[5580.40 --> 5580.96] by -[5580.96 --> 5581.12] the -[5581.12 --> 5581.32] Holy -[5581.32 --> 5581.72] Spirit -[5581.72 --> 5584.32] the -[5584.32 --> 5584.66] love -[5584.66 --> 5584.88] that -[5584.88 --> 5585.20] moved -[5585.20 --> 5585.58] God -[5585.58 --> 5585.94] toward -[5585.94 --> 5586.64] Mary -[5586.64 --> 5586.98] in -[5586.98 --> 5587.62] Nazareth -[5587.62 --> 5587.88] that -[5587.88 --> 5588.26] that -[5588.26 --> 5588.72] steadied -[5588.72 --> 5589.06] Joseph -[5589.06 --> 5589.32] in -[5589.32 --> 5589.48] his -[5589.48 --> 5589.98] confusion -[5589.98 --> 5590.22] that -[5590.22 --> 5590.62] carried -[5590.62 --> 5590.96] Jesus -[5590.96 --> 5591.18] to -[5591.18 --> 5591.32] the -[5591.32 --> 5591.68] cross -[5591.68 --> 5592.18] is -[5592.18 --> 5592.40] the -[5592.40 --> 5592.82] same -[5592.82 --> 5593.56] love -[5593.56 --> 5594.60] that -[5594.60 --> 5594.88] moves -[5594.88 --> 5595.30] towards -[5595.30 --> 5595.62] you -[5595.62 --> 5599.46] love -[5599.46 --> 5599.66] that -[5599.66 --> 5600.10] says -[5600.10 --> 5600.72] even -[5600.72 --> 5600.94] in -[5600.94 --> 5601.06] the -[5601.06 --> 5601.36] places -[5601.36 --> 5601.72] your -[5601.72 --> 5602.32] plans -[5602.32 --> 5602.62] have -[5602.62 --> 5602.82] fallen -[5602.82 --> 5603.28] apart -[5603.28 --> 5604.54] you -[5604.54 --> 5604.72] are -[5604.72 --> 5605.16] held -[5605.16 --> 5606.86] you -[5606.86 --> 5607.02] are -[5607.02 --> 5607.50] mine -[5607.50 --> 5608.68] and -[5608.68 --> 5608.78] you -[5608.78 --> 5608.94] are -[5608.94 --> 5609.28] forgiven -[5609.28 --> 5611.50] true -[5611.50 --> 5612.00] peace -[5612.00 --> 5612.62] comes -[5612.62 --> 5612.96] when -[5612.96 --> 5613.12] we -[5613.12 --> 5613.54] finally -[5613.54 --> 5614.04] fall -[5614.04 --> 5614.32] into -[5614.32 --> 5614.52] the -[5614.52 --> 5614.90] arms -[5614.90 --> 5615.40] of -[5615.40 --> 5615.52] the -[5615.52 --> 5615.78] one -[5615.78 --> 5616.04] who -[5616.04 --> 5616.38] gave -[5616.38 --> 5616.66] up -[5616.66 --> 5617.36] everything -[5617.36 --> 5618.38] to -[5618.38 --> 5618.70] make -[5618.70 --> 5619.22] us -[5619.22 --> 5620.14] his -[5620.14 --> 5626.78] about -[5626.78 --> 5626.88] a -[5626.88 --> 5627.06] month -[5627.06 --> 5627.36] ago -[5627.36 --> 5628.86] I -[5628.86 --> 5629.26] was -[5629.26 --> 5629.56] at -[5629.56 --> 5629.98] a -[5629.98 --> 5630.28] prayer -[5630.28 --> 5630.86] gathering -[5630.86 --> 5632.04] for -[5632.04 --> 5632.46] Langley -[5632.46 --> 5632.84] area -[5632.84 --> 5633.30] pastors -[5633.30 --> 5636.34] I -[5636.34 --> 5636.48] had -[5636.48 --> 5636.66] just -[5636.66 --> 5636.90] come -[5636.90 --> 5637.32] through -[5637.32 --> 5637.92] a -[5637.92 --> 5638.22] really -[5638.22 --> 5638.70] hectic -[5638.70 --> 5639.36] three -[5639.36 --> 5639.74] months -[5639.74 --> 5640.06] of -[5640.06 --> 5640.46] life -[5640.46 --> 5641.26] which -[5641.26 --> 5641.70] followed -[5641.70 --> 5642.06] on the -[5642.06 --> 5642.40] heels -[5642.40 --> 5642.70] of -[5642.70 --> 5642.88] a -[5642.88 --> 5643.22] summer -[5643.22 --> 5643.80] of -[5643.80 --> 5644.22] lots -[5644.22 --> 5644.48] and -[5644.48 --> 5644.82] lots -[5644.82 --> 5645.06] and -[5645.06 --> 5645.42] lots -[5645.42 --> 5645.66] of -[5645.66 --> 5646.08] things -[5646.08 --> 5646.76] and -[5646.76 --> 5646.90] a -[5646.90 --> 5647.48] busyness -[5647.48 --> 5649.26] that -[5649.26 --> 5649.58] in -[5649.58 --> 5649.88] my -[5649.88 --> 5650.54] experience -[5650.54 --> 5650.92] was -[5650.92 --> 5652.04] very -[5652.04 --> 5652.40] heightened -[5652.40 --> 5652.74] was -[5652.74 --> 5653.04] perhaps -[5653.04 --> 5653.74] incomparable -[5653.74 --> 5655.48] that -[5655.48 --> 5655.78] was -[5655.78 --> 5655.92] a -[5655.92 --> 5656.16] summer -[5656.16 --> 5656.46] of -[5656.46 --> 5656.76] no -[5656.76 --> 5657.42] real -[5657.42 --> 5658.06] long -[5658.06 --> 5658.44] term -[5658.44 --> 5659.14] rest -[5659.14 --> 5660.70] I -[5660.70 --> 5660.84] was -[5660.84 --> 5661.14] tired -[5661.14 --> 5663.48] and -[5663.48 --> 5663.74] now -[5663.74 --> 5663.98] it -[5663.98 --> 5664.14] was -[5664.14 --> 5664.54] November -[5664.54 --> 5666.22] I -[5666.22 --> 5666.34] had -[5666.34 --> 5666.54] made -[5666.54 --> 5666.68] it -[5666.68 --> 5666.90] through -[5666.90 --> 5667.10] the -[5667.10 --> 5667.42] calendar -[5667.42 --> 5667.64] of -[5667.64 --> 5668.20] chaos -[5668.20 --> 5669.32] and -[5669.32 --> 5669.42] I -[5669.42 --> 5669.56] had -[5669.56 --> 5669.74] just -[5669.74 --> 5669.94] been -[5669.94 --> 5670.22] telling -[5670.22 --> 5670.74] myself -[5670.74 --> 5671.14] for -[5671.14 --> 5671.48] six -[5671.48 --> 5671.84] months -[5671.84 --> 5672.38] if -[5672.38 --> 5672.54] I -[5672.54 --> 5672.70] can -[5672.70 --> 5672.92] just -[5672.92 --> 5673.16] make -[5673.16 --> 5673.28] it -[5673.28 --> 5673.44] to -[5673.44 --> 5673.78] November -[5673.78 --> 5674.22] 12 -[5674.22 --> 5675.30] things -[5675.30 --> 5675.48] will -[5675.48 --> 5675.70] settle -[5675.70 --> 5675.98] down -[5675.98 --> 5676.24] after -[5676.24 --> 5676.56] that -[5676.56 --> 5678.50] maybe -[5678.50 --> 5678.82] then -[5678.82 --> 5679.00] I'll -[5679.00 --> 5679.16] have -[5679.16 --> 5679.38] some -[5679.38 --> 5679.74] peace -[5679.74 --> 5682.44] but -[5682.44 --> 5682.62] that -[5682.62 --> 5683.08] Wednesday -[5683.08 --> 5684.54] at -[5684.54 --> 5684.74] that -[5684.74 --> 5685.22] pastor's -[5685.22 --> 5685.44] prayer -[5685.44 --> 5685.86] meeting -[5685.86 --> 5689.08] I -[5689.08 --> 5689.28] felt -[5689.28 --> 5689.44] the -[5689.44 --> 5689.60] Holy -[5689.60 --> 5689.96] Spirit -[5689.96 --> 5690.42] convict -[5690.42 --> 5690.58] me -[5690.58 --> 5690.74] of -[5690.74 --> 5691.06] something -[5691.06 --> 5691.94] that -[5691.94 --> 5692.80] my -[5692.80 --> 5693.18] wife -[5693.18 --> 5693.64] had -[5693.64 --> 5694.06] already -[5694.06 --> 5694.26] been -[5694.26 --> 5694.54] saying -[5694.54 --> 5694.72] for -[5694.72 --> 5694.84] a -[5694.84 --> 5695.04] while -[5695.04 --> 5696.90] and -[5696.90 --> 5697.12] for -[5697.12 --> 5697.28] you -[5697.28 --> 5697.58] husbands -[5697.58 --> 5697.84] out -[5697.84 --> 5698.06] there -[5698.06 --> 5698.54] this -[5698.54 --> 5698.68] is -[5698.68 --> 5698.82] the -[5698.82 --> 5699.02] normal -[5699.02 --> 5699.34] pattern -[5699.34 --> 5699.52] of -[5699.52 --> 5699.80] things -[5699.80 --> 5701.50] your -[5701.50 --> 5701.70] wife -[5701.70 --> 5701.84] has -[5701.84 --> 5701.94] been -[5701.94 --> 5702.20] telling -[5702.20 --> 5702.52] you -[5702.52 --> 5703.28] and -[5703.28 --> 5703.40] you -[5703.40 --> 5703.56] only -[5703.56 --> 5703.80] listen -[5703.80 --> 5703.94] when -[5703.94 --> 5704.04] the -[5704.04 --> 5704.16] Holy -[5704.16 --> 5704.40] Spirit -[5704.40 --> 5704.66] does -[5704.66 --> 5707.24] I -[5707.24 --> 5707.42] felt -[5707.42 --> 5707.56] the -[5707.56 --> 5707.74] Spirit -[5707.74 --> 5708.16] convict -[5708.16 --> 5708.42] me -[5708.42 --> 5708.64] that -[5708.64 --> 5708.82] the -[5708.82 --> 5709.26] cost -[5709.26 --> 5709.50] of -[5709.50 --> 5709.74] my -[5709.74 --> 5710.52] busyness -[5710.52 --> 5712.02] was -[5712.02 --> 5712.30] not -[5712.30 --> 5712.70] born -[5712.70 --> 5713.00] by -[5713.00 --> 5713.36] me -[5713.36 --> 5715.10] or -[5715.10 --> 5715.22] at -[5715.22 --> 5715.32] least -[5715.32 --> 5715.52] not -[5715.52 --> 5715.72] born -[5715.72 --> 5715.90] by -[5715.90 --> 5716.08] me -[5716.08 --> 5716.44] alone -[5716.44 --> 5718.84] my -[5718.84 --> 5719.06] whole -[5719.06 --> 5719.54] family -[5719.54 --> 5721.18] especially -[5721.18 --> 5721.80] Rachel -[5721.80 --> 5722.36] my -[5722.36 --> 5722.62] wife -[5722.62 --> 5725.22] they -[5725.22 --> 5725.52] feel -[5725.52 --> 5725.68] the -[5725.68 --> 5725.86] weight -[5725.86 --> 5726.00] of -[5726.00 --> 5726.26] that -[5726.26 --> 5728.46] they -[5728.46 --> 5728.68] bear -[5728.68 --> 5728.86] the -[5728.86 --> 5729.28] cost -[5729.28 --> 5729.66] of -[5729.66 --> 5729.94] my -[5729.94 --> 5730.68] busyness -[5730.68 --> 5732.06] my -[5732.06 --> 5732.82] unpeace -[5732.82 --> 5733.24] fullness -[5733.24 --> 5733.74] and -[5733.74 --> 5734.00] my -[5734.00 --> 5734.44] inability -[5734.44 --> 5734.78] to -[5734.78 --> 5735.10] rest -[5735.10 --> 5735.70] trickles -[5735.70 --> 5736.10] out -[5736.10 --> 5737.04] to -[5737.04 --> 5737.34] them -[5737.34 --> 5739.30] and -[5739.30 --> 5739.60] everybody -[5739.60 --> 5740.02] feels -[5740.02 --> 5740.90] it -[5740.90 --> 5745.76] convicted -[5745.76 --> 5746.66] in -[5746.66 --> 5746.84] that -[5746.84 --> 5747.30] moment -[5747.30 --> 5748.44] and -[5748.44 --> 5749.16] confessing -[5749.16 --> 5750.14] in -[5750.14 --> 5750.32] that -[5750.32 --> 5750.60] moment -[5750.60 --> 5752.72] I -[5752.72 --> 5752.90] am -[5752.90 --> 5753.46] now -[5753.46 --> 5754.32] trying -[5754.32 --> 5754.64] to -[5754.64 --> 5754.98] live -[5754.98 --> 5755.42] this -[5755.42 --> 5756.04] truth -[5756.04 --> 5758.34] the -[5758.34 --> 5758.80] truth -[5758.80 --> 5759.76] that -[5759.76 --> 5760.22] my -[5760.22 --> 5760.88] restless -[5760.88 --> 5761.86] striving -[5761.86 --> 5762.80] is -[5762.80 --> 5763.44] answered -[5763.44 --> 5764.30] only -[5764.30 --> 5765.02] by -[5765.02 --> 5765.52] Jesus -[5765.52 --> 5766.38] willing -[5766.38 --> 5767.30] surrender -[5767.30 --> 5769.48] that -[5769.48 --> 5769.96] his -[5769.96 --> 5770.60] obedience -[5770.60 --> 5771.52] is -[5771.52 --> 5771.76] the -[5771.76 --> 5772.24] peace -[5772.24 --> 5772.78] that -[5772.78 --> 5773.10] I -[5773.10 --> 5773.40] keep -[5773.40 --> 5773.76] trying -[5773.76 --> 5773.98] to -[5773.98 --> 5774.56] manufacture -[5774.56 --> 5778.92] when -[5778.92 --> 5779.10] I -[5779.10 --> 5779.30] keep -[5779.30 --> 5779.68] trying -[5779.68 --> 5779.92] to -[5779.92 --> 5780.22] push -[5780.22 --> 5780.48] for -[5780.48 --> 5780.82] peace -[5780.82 --> 5781.06] by -[5781.06 --> 5781.50] controlling -[5781.50 --> 5781.80] my -[5781.80 --> 5782.26] time -[5782.26 --> 5782.66] my -[5782.66 --> 5783.00] energy -[5783.00 --> 5783.24] my -[5783.24 --> 5783.66] schedule -[5783.66 --> 5783.92] my -[5783.92 --> 5784.42] outcomes -[5784.42 --> 5784.88] what -[5784.88 --> 5785.02] I'm -[5785.02 --> 5785.38] really -[5785.38 --> 5785.68] trying -[5785.68 --> 5785.84] to -[5785.84 --> 5786.06] do -[5786.06 --> 5786.32] is -[5786.32 --> 5786.78] manufacture -[5786.78 --> 5787.44] something -[5787.44 --> 5787.98] that -[5787.98 --> 5788.32] only -[5788.32 --> 5788.66] Jesus -[5788.66 --> 5788.90] can -[5788.90 --> 5789.20] give -[5789.20 --> 5791.70] and -[5791.70 --> 5791.86] this -[5791.86 --> 5791.98] is -[5791.98 --> 5792.12] where -[5792.12 --> 5792.26] the -[5792.26 --> 5792.68] gospel -[5792.68 --> 5793.34] moves -[5793.34 --> 5793.78] for -[5793.78 --> 5794.16] me -[5794.16 --> 5794.64] from -[5794.64 --> 5794.82] a -[5794.82 --> 5795.22] doctrine -[5795.22 --> 5795.52] that -[5795.52 --> 5795.68] I -[5795.68 --> 5796.14] preach -[5796.14 --> 5796.64] to -[5796.64 --> 5796.82] a -[5796.82 --> 5797.44] reality -[5797.44 --> 5797.80] that -[5797.80 --> 5797.92] I -[5797.92 --> 5798.08] can -[5798.08 --> 5798.48] rest -[5798.48 --> 5798.86] in -[5798.86 --> 5800.54] right -[5800.54 --> 5800.82] Jesus -[5800.82 --> 5801.18] didn't -[5801.18 --> 5801.46] come -[5801.46 --> 5801.98] simply -[5801.98 --> 5802.30] to -[5802.30 --> 5802.88] stop -[5802.88 --> 5803.20] me -[5803.20 --> 5803.62] from -[5803.62 --> 5804.16] striving -[5804.16 --> 5804.52] he -[5804.52 --> 5804.82] came -[5804.82 --> 5805.04] to -[5805.04 --> 5805.60] replace -[5805.60 --> 5806.00] my -[5806.00 --> 5806.50] striving -[5806.50 --> 5807.32] with -[5807.32 --> 5807.82] his -[5807.82 --> 5808.46] surrender -[5808.46 --> 5810.74] right -[5810.74 --> 5811.00] he -[5811.00 --> 5811.64] obeyed -[5811.64 --> 5811.84] where -[5811.84 --> 5812.16] I -[5812.16 --> 5812.66] grasp -[5812.66 --> 5813.14] he -[5813.14 --> 5813.78] yielded -[5813.78 --> 5813.94] where -[5813.94 --> 5814.16] I -[5814.16 --> 5814.50] tighten -[5814.50 --> 5814.76] my -[5814.76 --> 5815.18] fists -[5815.18 --> 5815.60] he -[5815.60 --> 5816.00] trusted -[5816.00 --> 5816.22] the -[5816.22 --> 5816.50] father -[5816.50 --> 5816.78] where -[5816.78 --> 5816.96] I -[5816.96 --> 5817.24] tried -[5817.24 --> 5817.42] to -[5817.42 --> 5817.72] hold -[5817.72 --> 5818.32] everything -[5818.32 --> 5818.76] together -[5818.76 --> 5819.22] on -[5819.22 --> 5819.40] my -[5819.40 --> 5819.64] own -[5819.64 --> 5820.08] strength -[5820.08 --> 5820.56] and -[5820.56 --> 5820.90] because -[5820.90 --> 5821.64] I -[5821.64 --> 5821.90] am -[5821.90 --> 5822.36] united -[5822.36 --> 5822.92] to -[5822.92 --> 5823.30] him -[5823.30 --> 5823.96] his -[5823.96 --> 5824.54] obedience -[5824.54 --> 5824.92] is -[5824.92 --> 5825.12] not -[5825.12 --> 5825.36] just -[5825.36 --> 5825.52] an -[5825.52 --> 5826.10] example -[5826.10 --> 5826.50] set -[5826.50 --> 5826.94] before -[5826.94 --> 5827.24] me -[5827.24 --> 5828.48] that's -[5828.48 --> 5828.62] the -[5828.62 --> 5829.02] difference -[5829.02 --> 5829.34] between -[5829.34 --> 5829.76] Jesus -[5829.76 --> 5830.52] and -[5830.52 --> 5830.78] Mary -[5830.78 --> 5830.98] and -[5830.98 --> 5831.28] Joseph -[5831.28 --> 5832.64] Mary -[5832.64 --> 5832.82] and -[5832.82 --> 5833.02] Joseph -[5833.02 --> 5833.24] are -[5833.24 --> 5833.38] an -[5833.38 --> 5833.76] example -[5833.76 --> 5834.00] to -[5834.00 --> 5834.28] me -[5834.28 --> 5835.00] Jesus -[5835.00 --> 5836.02] is -[5836.02 --> 5837.00] to -[5837.00 --> 5837.30] me -[5837.30 --> 5838.94] it -[5838.94 --> 5839.08] is -[5839.08 --> 5839.30] a -[5839.30 --> 5839.58] gift -[5839.58 --> 5839.94] given -[5839.94 --> 5840.18] to -[5840.18 --> 5840.40] me -[5840.40 --> 5840.58] and -[5840.58 --> 5840.74] a -[5840.74 --> 5841.04] peace -[5841.04 --> 5841.26] that -[5841.26 --> 5841.68] flows -[5841.68 --> 5842.38] into -[5842.38 --> 5842.72] me -[5842.72 --> 5843.16] I -[5843.16 --> 5843.38] don't -[5843.38 --> 5843.70] gain -[5843.70 --> 5844.10] peace -[5844.10 --> 5844.32] by -[5844.32 --> 5844.72] managing -[5844.72 --> 5845.00] my -[5845.00 --> 5845.40] world -[5845.40 --> 5845.60] but -[5845.60 --> 5845.80] by -[5845.80 --> 5846.16] belonging -[5846.16 --> 5846.38] to -[5846.38 --> 5846.54] the -[5846.54 --> 5846.76] one -[5846.76 --> 5847.02] who's -[5847.02 --> 5847.40] already -[5848.32 --> 5848.44] through -[5848.44 --> 5848.62] his -[5848.62 --> 5848.88] life -[5848.88 --> 5849.16] death -[5849.16 --> 5849.66] resurrection -[5849.66 --> 5850.14] and -[5850.14 --> 5850.30] through -[5850.30 --> 5850.46] his -[5850.46 --> 5850.76] rising -[5850.76 --> 5851.08] again -[5851.08 --> 5851.44] the -[5851.44 --> 5851.78] rest -[5851.78 --> 5852.00] that -[5852.00 --> 5852.20] I -[5852.20 --> 5852.54] cannot -[5852.54 --> 5853.18] manufacture -[5853.18 --> 5853.82] he -[5853.82 --> 5854.54] delights -[5854.54 --> 5855.06] to -[5855.06 --> 5855.30] give -[5855.30 --> 5855.62] me -[5855.62 --> 5857.74] and -[5857.74 --> 5857.94] look -[5857.94 --> 5858.78] I'll -[5858.78 --> 5859.02] be the -[5859.02 --> 5859.24] first -[5859.24 --> 5859.40] to -[5859.40 --> 5859.60] tell -[5859.60 --> 5859.74] you -[5859.74 --> 5859.98] this -[5859.98 --> 5860.58] I'm -[5860.58 --> 5860.94] still -[5860.94 --> 5861.38] learning -[5861.38 --> 5863.24] I -[5863.24 --> 5863.36] don't -[5863.36 --> 5863.52] have -[5863.52 --> 5863.60] it -[5863.60 --> 5863.76] all -[5863.76 --> 5864.00] figured -[5864.00 --> 5864.28] out -[5864.28 --> 5864.56] far -[5864.56 --> 5864.88] from -[5864.88 --> 5865.12] it -[5865.12 --> 5867.42] but -[5867.42 --> 5867.52] I'm -[5867.52 --> 5867.84] trying -[5867.84 --> 5869.84] I'm -[5869.84 --> 5870.00] talking -[5870.00 --> 5870.18] to my -[5870.18 --> 5870.42] wife -[5870.42 --> 5870.66] about -[5870.66 --> 5870.86] what -[5870.86 --> 5871.12] trying -[5871.12 --> 5871.38] looks -[5871.38 --> 5871.68] like -[5871.68 --> 5872.70] I'm -[5872.70 --> 5872.88] talking -[5872.88 --> 5873.02] to -[5873.02 --> 5873.32] others -[5873.32 --> 5873.92] about -[5873.92 --> 5874.14] what -[5874.14 --> 5874.52] trying -[5874.52 --> 5875.48] looks -[5875.48 --> 5875.82] like -[5875.82 --> 5879.32] but -[5879.32 --> 5879.50] here's -[5879.50 --> 5879.60] what -[5879.60 --> 5879.70] I -[5879.70 --> 5880.00] believe -[5880.00 --> 5881.46] here's -[5881.46 --> 5881.54] what -[5881.54 --> 5881.64] I -[5881.64 --> 5881.82] know -[5881.82 --> 5881.98] to -[5881.98 --> 5882.10] be -[5882.10 --> 5882.34] true -[5882.34 --> 5884.92] he -[5884.92 --> 5885.52] delights -[5885.52 --> 5887.30] he -[5887.30 --> 5887.94] delights -[5887.94 --> 5888.56] to -[5888.56 --> 5888.96] give -[5888.96 --> 5890.00] peace -[5890.00 --> 5890.80] that -[5890.80 --> 5891.18] I -[5891.18 --> 5891.42] am -[5891.42 --> 5891.82] trying -[5891.82 --> 5892.14] to -[5892.14 --> 5892.42] earn -[5892.42 --> 5894.98] he -[5894.98 --> 5895.24] doesn't -[5895.24 --> 5895.48] wait -[5895.48 --> 5895.84] for me -[5895.84 --> 5896.00] to -[5896.00 --> 5896.20] calm -[5896.20 --> 5896.62] down -[5896.62 --> 5896.92] or -[5896.92 --> 5897.10] to -[5897.10 --> 5897.40] slow -[5897.40 --> 5897.78] down -[5897.78 --> 5898.70] he -[5898.70 --> 5898.86] doesn't -[5898.86 --> 5899.04] wait -[5899.04 --> 5899.30] for me -[5899.30 --> 5899.42] to -[5899.42 --> 5899.54] get -[5899.54 --> 5899.66] it -[5899.66 --> 5900.00] together -[5900.00 --> 5901.20] he -[5901.20 --> 5901.56] meets -[5901.56 --> 5901.78] me -[5901.78 --> 5902.10] right -[5902.10 --> 5902.26] in -[5902.26 --> 5902.42] the -[5902.42 --> 5902.90] chaos -[5902.90 --> 5903.10] that -[5903.10 --> 5903.30] I -[5903.30 --> 5903.46] have -[5903.46 --> 5903.92] created -[5903.92 --> 5904.36] and -[5904.36 --> 5904.50] he -[5904.50 --> 5904.82] gives -[5904.82 --> 5905.02] me -[5905.02 --> 5905.54] himself -[5905.54 --> 5908.26] and -[5908.26 --> 5908.42] where -[5908.42 --> 5908.60] I -[5908.60 --> 5909.02] cling -[5909.02 --> 5909.68] and -[5909.68 --> 5910.14] grasp -[5910.14 --> 5910.74] and -[5910.74 --> 5911.26] strain -[5911.26 --> 5912.06] he -[5912.06 --> 5912.84] obeyed -[5912.84 --> 5913.74] he -[5913.74 --> 5914.30] surrendered -[5914.30 --> 5915.12] and -[5915.12 --> 5915.24] he -[5915.24 --> 5915.66] trusted -[5915.66 --> 5917.24] the -[5917.24 --> 5917.56] peace -[5917.56 --> 5917.76] that -[5917.76 --> 5917.94] I -[5917.94 --> 5918.20] cannot -[5918.20 --> 5918.78] generate -[5918.78 --> 5919.06] is -[5919.06 --> 5919.40] available -[5919.40 --> 5919.82] because -[5919.82 --> 5920.40] I -[5920.40 --> 5920.88] belong -[5920.88 --> 5921.10] to -[5921.10 --> 5921.24] the -[5921.24 --> 5921.54] one -[5921.54 --> 5922.08] who -[5922.08 --> 5922.72] faithfully -[5922.72 --> 5922.98] and -[5922.98 --> 5923.10] in -[5923.10 --> 5923.30] all -[5923.30 --> 5923.44] the -[5923.44 --> 5923.74] places -[5923.74 --> 5923.96] where -[5923.96 --> 5924.14] I -[5924.14 --> 5924.38] live -[5924.38 --> 5925.12] frantically -[5925.12 --> 5925.98] he -[5925.98 --> 5926.96] lived -[5926.96 --> 5928.34] surrendered -[5928.34 --> 5931.56] the -[5931.56 --> 5931.86] story -[5931.86 --> 5932.02] of -[5932.02 --> 5932.20] Mary -[5932.20 --> 5932.38] and -[5932.38 --> 5932.80] Joseph -[5932.80 --> 5933.62] the -[5933.62 --> 5933.96] gospel -[5933.96 --> 5934.22] of -[5934.22 --> 5934.54] Jesus -[5934.54 --> 5935.52] is -[5935.52 --> 5935.74] an -[5935.74 --> 5936.58] invitation -[5936.58 --> 5937.48] for -[5937.48 --> 5937.84] you -[5937.84 --> 5938.38] into -[5938.38 --> 5938.86] this -[5938.86 --> 5939.34] truth -[5939.34 --> 5940.28] that -[5940.28 --> 5940.62] true -[5940.62 --> 5941.06] peace -[5941.06 --> 5941.56] comes -[5941.56 --> 5941.80] when -[5941.80 --> 5942.00] we -[5942.00 --> 5942.46] yield -[5942.46 --> 5943.40] ourselves -[5943.40 --> 5943.74] to -[5943.74 --> 5944.22] God's -[5944.22 --> 5944.64] will -[5944.64 --> 5945.14] even -[5945.14 --> 5945.58] when -[5945.58 --> 5946.16] especially -[5946.16 --> 5946.86] when -[5946.86 --> 5947.10] it -[5947.10 --> 5947.58] disrupts -[5947.58 --> 5947.76] our -[5947.76 --> 5948.10] plans -[5948.10 --> 5948.40] because -[5948.40 --> 5948.64] the -[5948.64 --> 5949.32] disruption -[5949.32 --> 5950.20] may -[5950.20 --> 5950.54] in -[5950.54 --> 5950.82] fact -[5950.82 --> 5951.04] be -[5951.04 --> 5951.26] the -[5951.26 --> 5951.54] source -[5951.54 --> 5951.84] of -[5951.84 --> 5952.26] peace -[5952.26 --> 5953.50] peace -[5953.50 --> 5953.66] is -[5953.66 --> 5953.82] not -[5953.82 --> 5954.16] found -[5954.16 --> 5954.34] in -[5954.34 --> 5954.80] controlling -[5954.80 --> 5955.08] our -[5955.08 --> 5955.72] circumstances -[5955.72 --> 5956.30] or escaping -[5956.30 --> 5956.98] responsibilities -[5956.98 --> 5957.92] or endlessly -[5957.92 --> 5958.52] trying to -[5958.52 --> 5958.86] become -[5958.86 --> 5959.36] the right -[5959.36 --> 5959.78] version -[5959.78 --> 5960.08] of -[5960.08 --> 5960.58] ourselves -[5960.58 --> 5961.32] peace -[5961.32 --> 5961.66] is -[5961.66 --> 5962.12] found -[5962.12 --> 5962.60] in -[5962.60 --> 5963.08] union -[5963.08 --> 5963.70] with -[5963.70 --> 5964.48] Christ -[5964.48 --> 5964.72] in -[5964.72 --> 5964.90] letting -[5964.90 --> 5965.24] his -[5965.24 --> 5965.78] obedience -[5965.78 --> 5966.08] his -[5966.08 --> 5966.46] trust -[5966.46 --> 5966.58] and -[5966.58 --> 5966.80] his -[5966.80 --> 5967.12] willing -[5967.12 --> 5967.70] surrender -[5967.70 --> 5969.48] become -[5969.48 --> 5971.18] the rhythm -[5971.18 --> 5972.30] of our -[5972.30 --> 5973.04] lives -[5973.04 --> 5975.02] this -[5975.02 --> 5975.56] advent -[5975.56 --> 5976.82] because our -[5976.82 --> 5977.22] union -[5977.22 --> 5977.58] with -[5977.58 --> 5978.04] Christ -[5978.04 --> 5978.66] we can -[5978.66 --> 5979.60] choose -[5979.60 --> 5980.24] to let -[5980.24 --> 5980.88] Christ's -[5980.88 --> 5981.12] willing -[5981.12 --> 5981.70] surrender -[5981.70 --> 5982.26] become -[5982.26 --> 5982.68] our -[5982.68 --> 5983.52] rest -[5983.52 --> 5983.60] God -[5983.60 --> 5985.70] I want -[5985.70 --> 5985.80] to -[5985.80 --> 5986.06] end -[5986.06 --> 5987.40] with -[5987.40 --> 5987.66] three -[5987.66 --> 5988.06] ways -[5988.06 --> 5988.74] that -[5988.74 --> 5988.86] you -[5988.86 --> 5989.10] can -[5989.10 --> 5990.00] make -[5990.00 --> 5990.34] your -[5990.34 --> 5990.74] advent -[5990.74 --> 5991.04] and -[5991.04 --> 5991.44] Christmas -[5991.44 --> 5991.86] look -[5991.86 --> 5992.48] different -[5992.48 --> 5993.18] based -[5993.18 --> 5993.36] on -[5993.36 --> 5993.58] this -[5993.58 --> 5993.86] call -[5993.86 --> 5995.60] first -[5995.60 --> 5996.16] one -[5996.16 --> 5997.56] yield -[5997.56 --> 5997.88] your -[5997.88 --> 5998.32] calendar -[5998.32 --> 6000.56] take -[6000.56 --> 6001.00] a moment -[6001.00 --> 6001.42] to -[6001.42 --> 6001.88] pause -[6001.88 --> 6002.24] and to -[6002.24 --> 6002.54] ask -[6002.54 --> 6003.04] what -[6003.04 --> 6003.20] am -[6003.20 --> 6003.52] I -[6003.52 --> 6004.42] holding -[6004.42 --> 6004.88] on -[6004.88 --> 6005.12] to -[6005.12 --> 6005.44] that -[6005.44 --> 6005.58] I -[6005.58 --> 6005.74] need -[6005.74 --> 6005.94] to -[6005.94 --> 6006.12] lay -[6006.12 --> 6006.44] before -[6006.44 --> 6006.88] Christ -[6006.88 --> 6008.68] it -[6008.68 --> 6008.80] might -[6008.80 --> 6008.92] be -[6008.92 --> 6009.20] work -[6009.20 --> 6009.42] it -[6009.42 --> 6009.54] might -[6009.54 --> 6009.66] be -[6009.66 --> 6010.00] school -[6010.00 --> 6010.14] it -[6010.14 --> 6010.26] might -[6010.26 --> 6010.40] be -[6010.40 --> 6016.40] commitments that keep you restless. Write them down and pray over them as an act of surrender, -[6016.88 --> 6023.90] saying, Jesus, you are Lord of this schedule, not me. Now hear very clearly what I said there, right? -[6024.60 --> 6030.90] I said write them down, not necessarily lay them down, because there are things you have to do. -[6031.74 --> 6036.48] There are things that need to get done, but how you do them and the heart you take into them -[6036.48 --> 6043.62] is what we're after here. And so pray them to God. And maybe God will answer your praying by saying, -[6044.18 --> 6048.54] not this, not that. Maybe there is something you need to lay down, -[6049.46 --> 6057.16] but pray it to God. Give him your calendar. Two, rest in word and in prayer. And here, -[6057.16 --> 6063.28] spend intentional time in the word, not to fix your peace, but to receive it. -[6063.28 --> 6071.00] Right? Maybe commit this season to a slow reading of the Gospel of Luke, -[6072.00 --> 6078.82] right? Time it out so that you finish it over your Christmas break. And then with that, -[6079.04 --> 6083.96] change your approach to prayer, right? Prayer is not just asking for relief, -[6083.96 --> 6091.92] right? What happens if we change our prayer from, God, remove this from me, to an in prayer, -[6091.92 --> 6102.66] receiving Christ's presence where our striving cannot reach. And then lastly, give God your every day. -[6103.94 --> 6109.86] Right? Yielding doesn't always mean dramatic changes. It can look like responding patiently -[6109.86 --> 6114.42] to a family member. Some of us will be tested in that over the next few weeks. -[6114.42 --> 6120.22] It can look like giving a difficult task to God instead of trying to control it yourself. -[6121.22 --> 6130.24] It can look like speaking grace when frustration rises. Right? These acts of trust can cultivate peace -[6130.24 --> 6141.12] in real time. Advent invites us to live like Mary and Joseph because Jesus has lived for us. -[6141.12 --> 6148.42] To say, let it be to me according to your word. To obey and trust even when the future is uncertain. -[6149.26 --> 6154.96] And because Jesus has already walked perfectly in our shoes, obeying and surrendering where we fail, -[6155.04 --> 6163.52] his peace, right, is not distant or theoretical. It is here. It is now. It is every day. It is in the ordinary. -[6163.52 --> 6174.32] And so this is my prayer for you. May the peace of Christ be with you all. In the name of the Father, -[6174.88 --> 6180.72] and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen. Let's pray together. -[6180.72 --> 6194.88] Holy God. May we today, a little more deeply, a little more comprehensively, -[6195.50 --> 6204.98] grasp this reality of peace. May we today see Jesus just a little bit more clearly -[6204.98 --> 6211.52] in why he has come and in what his coming to us brings. -[6216.96 --> 6222.28] Lord Jesus, you have promised us that in this world we would have trouble. -[6223.62 --> 6230.38] But you have also shown us that you have overcome the world. That you have come into this world to -[6230.38 --> 6235.82] bring peace and to give us peace. And so, Lord God, -[6237.58 --> 6239.90] convicted, may we confess. -[6241.24 --> 6244.78] And confessing, may we receive assurance -[6244.78 --> 6248.90] that you are a God who forgives. -[6249.18 --> 6252.38] That you are a God who has granted us peace. -[6253.24 --> 6255.80] And so may we taste that today. -[6255.80 --> 6262.22] And may we go forward living in the peace that only Christ provides. -[6262.92 --> 6265.22] In your name we pray. Amen. -[6266.14 --> 6266.56] Amen. -[6285.80 --> 6291.42] Behold the star, and lift the head. -[6291.42 --> 6298.38] The word of God has become flesh. -[6298.38 --> 6311.88] Unto us a child is born, the Savior of this broken world. -[6311.88 --> 6318.70] O hear the angel voices. -[6318.70 --> 6325.94] Sing, come, let us adore him. -[6325.94 --> 6335.80] Peace has come, for our King is with us. -[6335.80 --> 6337.80] Peace has come, for our King is with us. -[6337.80 --> 6338.80] Peace has come, for our King is with us. -[6338.80 --> 6344.80] Holy God, holy man, holy man, -[6344.80 --> 6351.24] He comes for all with open hands. -[6351.24 --> 6357.86] He rules with love on David's throne. -[6357.86 --> 6363.98] The grace he longs to Christ alone. -[6363.98 --> 6370.98] O hear the angel voices. -[6370.98 --> 6377.98] Say, come, let us adore him. -[6377.98 --> 6387.98] Peace has come, for our King is with us. -[6387.98 --> 6389.98] Amen. -[6389.98 --> 6419.96] Peace has come, for our King is with us. -[6419.96 --> 6426.96] Oh, come, let us adore him. -[6426.96 --> 6428.96] A, come, let us adore him. -[6428.96 --> 6439.96] A, come, let us adore him. -[6439.96 --> 6441.96] Oh -[6469.96 --> 6471.96] Oh -[6499.96 --> 6501.96] Oh -[6501.96 --> 6503.96] Oh -[6503.96 --> 6505.96] Oh -[6505.96 --> 6507.96] Oh -[6507.96 --> 6509.96] Oh -[6515.96 --> 6521.96] As we go into this week, we go as those with whom our good God goes. -[6521.96 --> 6529.96] He goes with us. He goes before us and so receive his blessing for the journey of life and faith ahead. -[6531.96 --> 6533.96] God go before you to lead you. -[6533.96 --> 6536.96] God go behind you to protect you. -[6537.96 --> 6542.96] God go beneath you to support you and God go beside you to befriend you. -[6542.96 --> 6544.96] Do not be afraid. -[6545.96 --> 6547.96] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[6547.96 --> 6554.96] Do not be afraid but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[6555.96 --> 6556.96] Amen. -[6577.96 --> 6587.96] Father of life, draw me closer. -[6587.96 --> 6593.96] Lord, my heart is still on you. -[6593.96 --> 6597.96] Let me run the race of time. -[6597.96 --> 6601.96] Let your heart hold in mind. -[6601.96 --> 6607.96] And let the tears of God let it rain. -[6607.96 --> 6609.96] Oh -[6609.96 --> 6613.96] Oh -[6613.96 --> 6619.96] Strengthen me, hold my head up high. -[6619.96 --> 6623.96] And I'll stand upon your truth. -[6623.96 --> 6625.96] Bringing glory unto you. -[6625.96 --> 6631.96] And let me feel so glad that it rain. -[6631.96 --> 6633.96] Oh -[6633.96 --> 6634.96] Oh -[6634.96 --> 6638.96] Lord, I hunger for more of you. -[6638.96 --> 6641.96] Rise up within me. -[6641.96 --> 6644.96] Let me know your truth. -[6644.96 --> 6646.96] Oh -[6646.96 --> 6650.96] Holy Spirit, saturate my soul. -[6650.96 --> 6657.96] And let the life of God fill me now. -[6657.96 --> 6663.96] Let your healing power bring life and make me whole. -[6663.96 --> 6669.96] And let the peace of God let it rain. -[6669.96 --> 6671.96] Father of life, draw me closer. -[6671.96 --> 6673.96] Father of life, draw me closer. -[6673.96 --> 6676.96] Father of life, draw me closer. -[6676.96 --> 6682.96] Lord, my heart is still on you. -[6682.96 --> 6685.96] Let me run the race of time. -[6685.96 --> 6688.96] With your life bold in mind. -[6688.96 --> 6694.96] And let the peace of God let it rain. -[6694.96 --> 6696.96] Oh -[6696.96 --> 6698.96] Holy Spirit, -[6698.96 --> 6700.96] Your comfort. -[6700.96 --> 6702.96] Say -[6702.96 --> 6707.96] Let me hold my head up high. -[6707.96 --> 6710.96] And I'll stand upon your truth. -[6710.96 --> 6713.96] Bringing glory unto you. -[6713.96 --> 6719.96] And let the peace of God let it rain. -[6719.96 --> 6721.96] Oh -[6721.96 --> 6723.96] Lord, I hunger for more of you. -[6723.96 --> 6728.96] Rise up within me. -[6728.96 --> 6730.96] Let me know your truth. -[6730.96 --> 6733.96] Oh -[6733.96 --> 6737.96] Holy Spirit, saturate my soul. -[6737.96 --> 6743.96] And let the life of God fill me now. -[6743.96 --> 6748.96] Let your healing power bring life and make me whole. -[6748.96 --> 6750.96] Great life and make me whole. -[6750.96 --> 6758.96] And let the peace of God let it rain. -[6758.96 --> 6763.70] God Oooh -[6765.96 --> 6768.96] When you die, love you. -[6768.96 --> 6770.96] Can you imagine this for maybe some days? -[6770.96 --> 6774.96] No one to do, not no one to let my soul leave. -[6774.96 --> 6775.96] The peace of God. -[6775.96 --> 6776.96] For you however there is, you want to your fulfillment to it or unless you. -[6776.96 --> 6777.96] The peace to your soul. -[6777.96 --> 6778.96] Your thought is now. -[6778.96 --> 6779.96] The peace to your soul. -[6779.96 --> 6781.96] Send a love together with you, not to shake it. -[6781.96 --> 6783.96] The peace to youra face. -[6783.96 --> 6789.70] take a look at the flip dial -[6789.96 --> 6794.82] there's a nice punch -[6795.10 --> 6798.10] add sips -[6799.30 --> 6803.72] I'm sitting pимиus -[6803.72 --> 6827.54] Thank you. -[6833.72 --> 6863.70] Thank you. -[6863.72 --> 6893.70] Thank you. -[6893.72 --> 6923.70] Thank you. -[6923.72 --> 6953.70] Thank you. -[6953.72 --> 6983.70] Thank you. -[6983.72 --> 7013.70] Thank you. -[7013.72 --> 7043.70] Thank you. -[7043.72 --> 7073.70] Thank you. -[7073.72 --> 7103.70] Thank you. -[7103.72 --> 7133.70] Thank you. -[7133.72 --> 7163.70] Thank you. -[7163.72 --> 7193.70] Thank you. -[7193.72 --> 7223.70] Thank you. -[7223.72 --> 7253.70] Thank you. -[7253.72 --> 7283.70] Thank you. -[7283.72 --> 7313.70] Thank you. -[7313.72 --> 7343.70] Thank you. -[7343.72 --> 7373.70] Thank you. -[7373.72 --> 7403.70] Thank you. -[7403.72 --> 7433.70] Thank you. -[7433.72 --> 7463.70] Thank you. -[7463.72 --> 7493.70] Thank you. -[7493.72 --> 7523.70] Thank you. -[7523.72 --> 7553.70] Thank you. -[7553.72 --> 7583.70] Thank you. -[7583.72 --> 7613.70] Thank you. -[7613.72 --> 7643.70] Thank you. -[7643.72 --> 7673.70] Thank you. -[7673.72 --> 7703.70] Thank you. -[7703.72 --> 7733.70] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, February 11, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, February 11, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 87b253be121aa22110115f811052abe35d2ad6ee..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, February 11, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,87 +0,0 @@ -• Struggling with negative self-talk and finding worth in God's love -• Lent season preparations and Ash Wednesday service -• Fundraising event for Gateway of Hope called Coldest Night of the Year -• Church announcements, including youth activities and a member's 50th anniversary celebration -• Reading from Revelation 1 as a greeting to God -• Worshiping together as a community in Christ -• The nature of God, specifically the Holy Trinity -• Christ's birth, life, suffering, crucifixion, and resurrection -• The Holy Spirit and its role in faith -• Belief in the resurrection and eternal life -• Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior -• The relationship between God the Father, Christ the Son, and the Holy Spirit -• References to 1 Corinthians 2:9-12 -• The Holy Spirit's role in revealing God's plans and intentions -• Invocation of the Holy Spirit for guidance, power, and comfort -• Song lyrics asking the Holy Spirit to reign and have power over the church and individuals -• Testimony about the gift of Jesus as redemption and joy -• Declaration of hope and faith in Jesus as the source of peace and strength -• The speaker sings a hymn about the hope and freedom found in Jesus Christ -• A deacon introduces an offering for Night Shift Ministries, which helps the less fortunate in Surrey and Langley -• The congregation gives their gifts to support Night Shift Ministries -• The speaker leads the congregation in giving thanks and worshiping God with offerings and hymns -• Trying to guess who the speaker is imitating -• Clues given: blue jeans, bright plaid shirt, rubber boots, and a toque with a bobble -• The speaker's dad is revealed as the person being imitated, a farmer and construction worker -• Discussion of dressing like God by wearing certain items -• Introduction to the church family prayer, led by Haley -• Thanking God for the birth of baby Jake and praying for his well-being -• Praying for those who are grieving and struggling with mental health issues -• Recalling a personal experience of being small as a child but growing taller, leading to humility -• Discussing Romans 12:3-8, emphasizing the importance of thinking of oneself with sober judgment and using one's gifts according to faith -• Explaining that everyone has different gifts according to God's grace and should use them accordingly -• Giving everything over to God leads to humility -• Humility is a natural outcome of surrendering to God, resulting in service to others and the church -• The Holy Spirit's work in our lives leads to humility and service as we acknowledge our dependence on God for salvation -• True humility is not self-loathing or self-deprivation but rather self-awareness that recognizes God's role in our accomplishments and salvation -• The speaker discusses the importance of humility and self-awareness in understanding God's love -• Comparing oneself to others can be a hindrance to true humility, as it often involves comparing one's faith to that of others rather than their own unique distribution from God -• Social media has exacerbated this issue, making comparisons to others' lives easily accessible and creating unrealistic expectations -• Comparing oneself to others on social media can lead to depression, loneliness, and jealousy -• Social media presents a curated version of others' lives, fueling envy and regret -• Anonymous says comparing oneself to others leads to either pride or anxiety/depression -• The data shows that people get high on comparing themselves to others, but this is not a healthy way to think about oneself -• Definition of faith: a tangible thing vs. a feeling -• Faith as sound doctrine, based on scripture -• Faith as a feeling of certainty and assurance granted by God -• True faith is both sure knowledge of God's revelation in scripture and wholehearted trust in God's salvation work -• Faith leads to humility and a deep-rooted assurance of being loved, saved, and sent out by God. -• The importance of living out humble faith in everyday life -• Using God-given gifts to serve and bless the church -• The distinction between serving out of duty and serving because it's all one can do -• The necessity of being part of the body of believers (the church) to give oneself to it -• A list of specific spiritual gifts mentioned in Romans 12, including prophesying, serving, teaching, encouraging, giving, leading, and showing mercy -• Comparison between Romans 12 and 1 Corinthians 12 -• Analogy of the body used by Paul to describe the church -• Importance of love for one another in living out the body -• Need for corporate Christianity, not individualistic faith -• Using gifts within the community of the church -• The importance of church membership and involvement in a local body -• The connection between loving Christ and loving the church -• Using spiritual gifts for the benefit of others, not personal gain -• Identifying and utilizing one's unique gifts to edify the church community -• Recognizing that all gifts are given by God through His grace, not earned by individuals -• The importance of using gifts to love and serve the body of Christ -• Asking "what can I give to God" instead of "what do I get from church" -• Serving the body through giving time, talent, or treasure -• A personal testimony from Stephen Foster about finding purpose in serving others at church -• A story about Pastor's own experience of being asked to run the coffee team and discovering love for those he was serving. -• Serving at a church, specifically making coffee for people -• Realizing the importance of the church as God's plan for salvation -• Embracing the imperfections and humanity of the church -• Identifying one's gifts and serving in various capacities within the church -• Humility and gratitude in serving others through Jesus' example -• Prayer for the church to grow and serve the community -• Confession of sin and asking for mercy -• Thirst for spiritual revival and restoration -• Request for the Holy Spirit to send a revival to the nation -• Celebration of an anniversary and encouragement to live humbly -• Parting blessing from Numbers 6:24-26 -• Declaration of hope in life and death through Christ alone -• Affirmation of faith and trust in God's goodness and love -• Hymn singing -• Christ as hope in life and death -• Confession of faith -• Hope springs eternal -• Joy and feasting in endless joy -• Praise to God through hallelujahs \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, February 11, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, February 11, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6d9fb776febf1391368233922e8fa6bbb0640d82..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, February 11, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1649 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 18.96] I keep fighting voices in my mind that say I'm not enough -[18.96 --> 30.96] Every single lie that tells me I will never measure -[30.96 --> 44.80] Am I more than just the sum of every heart and every love -[48.96 --> 57.84] Remind me once again just who I am because I need to know -[57.84 --> 67.86] You say I'm loved when I can't feel a thing -[67.86 --> 74.38] You say I'm strong when I think I'm weak -[74.38 --> 80.88] And you say I am held when I am falling short -[80.88 --> 87.56] And when I don't belong, oh, you say I am yours -[87.56 --> 93.94] And I believe, oh, I believe -[93.94 --> 100.44] What you say of me, I believe -[100.44 --> 110.24] The only thing that matters now is everything you think of me -[110.24 --> 122.14] In you I find my worth, in you I find my identity -[122.14 --> 132.56] You say I'm loved when I can't feel a thing -[132.56 --> 139.22] You say I'm strong when I think I'm weak -[139.22 --> 145.84] And you say I am held when I am falling short -[145.84 --> 152.34] When I don't belong, oh, you say I am yours -[152.34 --> 158.84] And I believe, oh, I believe -[158.84 --> 165.34] What you say of me, oh, I believe -[165.34 --> 177.84] Taking all I have and now I'm laying it at your feet -[177.84 --> 186.88] You have every failure, God -[186.88 --> 190.34] You have every victory -[190.34 --> 200.80] Oh, you say I am loved when I can't feel a thing -[200.80 --> 207.30] You say I am strong when I think I'm weak -[207.30 --> 213.86] You say I am held when I am falling short -[213.86 --> 220.50] When I don't belong, oh, you say I'm yours. -[221.50 --> 230.30] And I believe, oh, I believe what you say of me. -[230.30 --> 243.70] I believe, oh, I believe, yes, I believe what you say of me. -[243.86 --> 273.84] I believe, oh, I believe what you say of me. -[273.84 --> 276.04] Welcome to Langley Emanuel CRC. -[276.12 --> 277.02] My name is Kevin Lowbert. -[277.44 --> 283.42] I'm the youth pastor here at this church, and it's great to be able to gather in God's presence together this morning. -[283.92 --> 286.34] A few announcements this morning before we get underway. -[286.48 --> 298.54] The first is that Lent starts this week, and to kick Lent off, we will be having an Ash Wednesday service this coming Wednesday at a fairly unique time. -[298.66 --> 301.82] So the Ash Wednesday service this week will be at 7 a.m. -[301.82 --> 308.82] So the first thing we can do on Wednesday here at church before work, before school, before whatever you're doing is to come together. -[309.24 --> 314.50] It'll be 30 minutes, and we'll worship God and get into the right posture for the Lent season. -[314.60 --> 317.76] So hopefully you can come on out this Wednesday at 7 a.m. for that service. -[318.64 --> 327.18] Later this month, our congregation is joining with a number of other churches to raise money for Gateway of Hope in an event called Coldest Night of the Year. -[327.18 --> 328.66] So thank you, Linda. -[329.06 --> 330.74] And so a team of us are getting together. -[331.08 --> 334.46] We are going to walk a five-kilometer walk on the 24th. -[334.50 --> 337.92] It starts at Gateway of Hope, and it's a loop, and it'll end at Gateway of Hope. -[338.58 --> 340.64] And you are all invited to join this team. -[341.10 --> 342.92] You can do so by checking out the bulletin. -[342.98 --> 345.30] You can come talk to myself or any of the other staff. -[345.76 --> 354.28] And we encourage you to join the team, see if you can raise any money, and then come on out on the 24th to go for this walk to raise money and awareness for the Gateway of Hope. -[354.28 --> 357.32] Finally, a couple of in-house things. -[357.40 --> 360.08] Youth, we have HCBC today. -[360.40 --> 361.50] Again, it's at a weird time. -[361.56 --> 363.32] We're going to do that right after the service today. -[363.42 --> 368.06] So from noon until 1, grade 9s to 12s, you're invited to come out for HCBC. -[368.76 --> 371.54] As always, grade 9s and 10s are going to be doing the Catechism. -[371.66 --> 373.96] Grade 11s and 12s, you'll be with me doing the Belgian Confession. -[374.06 --> 375.88] So we'll see you after the service for that. -[376.16 --> 380.16] I've got a tiny little, like, a Gateway lunch for you. -[380.24 --> 382.26] So something small, but it'll get you through the hour, I promise. -[382.26 --> 388.44] And then finally, after the service, we are celebrating with a couple of members of our church today. -[388.54 --> 394.36] Maybe they can stand up because John and Helen Van Bergeyke celebrated their 50th anniversary this week. -[400.36 --> 403.34] And there is cake after the service to celebrate that. -[403.44 --> 407.48] So please stick around, enjoy us for some cake, and congratulate them in person. -[407.48 --> 413.00] I'd love to invite you all to rise now and receive God's greeting this morning. -[417.68 --> 420.56] God's greeting this morning comes from Revelation 1. -[420.56 --> 427.48] Grace and peace to you from him who is and who was and who is to come, -[427.84 --> 430.74] and from the seven spirits that are before his throne, -[430.84 --> 433.86] and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, -[434.36 --> 438.00] the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. -[438.70 --> 440.80] All God's people said, amen. -[441.08 --> 444.74] As God has greeted us this morning, please take a moment to greet those around you as well. -[444.74 --> 474.04] As we gather, -[474.04 --> 476.80] this morning to worship our God. -[477.32 --> 481.22] We gather as a community of one body in Christ. -[481.72 --> 485.50] We come from different backgrounds, different life experiences, -[486.28 --> 489.34] different ages, different current circumstances, -[489.76 --> 493.94] but we come as one people, holy and dearly loved. -[494.80 --> 499.32] Let's confess our common belief together with the words of the Apostles' Creed. -[499.32 --> 504.10] I believe in God, Father Almighty, -[504.78 --> 506.60] the creator of heaven and earth. -[507.22 --> 511.12] I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, -[511.64 --> 513.94] who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, -[514.48 --> 516.14] and born of the Virgin Mary. -[516.78 --> 518.82] He suffered and haunt his life, -[519.32 --> 521.82] so crucified, died, and was buried. -[522.38 --> 523.74] He descended to hell. -[523.74 --> 526.94] The third day he rose again from the dead. -[527.46 --> 528.90] He ascended to heaven, -[529.34 --> 532.60] and he seated at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. -[533.26 --> 536.62] From there he will come to judge the living and the dead. -[537.38 --> 539.38] I believe in the Holy Spirit, -[539.80 --> 541.48] of the Holy Catholic Church, -[542.02 --> 543.40] the communion of saints, -[543.96 --> 545.40] the forgiveness of saints, -[545.96 --> 547.60] the resurrection of the body, -[548.08 --> 549.50] and the life everlasting. -[549.50 --> 550.28] Amen. -[550.28 --> 550.50] Amen. -[551.18 --> 551.22] Amen. -[551.22 --> 581.20] piano plays softly -[581.20 --> 586.54] The all-creating One -[586.54 --> 589.56] God Almighty -[589.56 --> 595.20] Through Your Holy Spirit -[595.84 --> 599.20] Conceiving Christ the Son -[600.00 --> 603.30] Jesus our Savior -[603.30 --> 609.32] I believe in God our Father -[609.32 --> 613.06] I believe in Christ the Son -[613.06 --> 616.34] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[616.34 --> 620.12] Our God is three in one -[620.12 --> 623.16] I believe in the resurrection -[623.16 --> 626.32] That we will rise again -[627.02 --> 633.32] For I believe in the name of Jesus -[633.32 --> 651.06] Our judge and our defender -[651.06 --> 654.44] Suffered and crucified -[654.44 --> 660.18] Forgiveness is in you -[660.18 --> 665.20] Descended into darkness -[665.20 --> 669.44] Who rose in glorious light -[669.44 --> 673.18] Forever standing high -[673.18 --> 678.56] I believe in God our Father -[678.56 --> 682.04] I believe in Christ the Son -[682.04 --> 685.42] I believe in the Holy Spirit -[685.42 --> 689.04] Our God is three in one -[689.04 --> 692.02] I believe in the resurrection -[692.02 --> 695.76] That we will rise again -[695.76 --> 701.90] For I believe in the name of Jesus -[701.90 --> 709.64] I believe in you -[709.64 --> 710.64] I believe in you -[710.64 --> 716.22] I believe you rose again -[716.22 --> 721.64] I believe in you -[721.64 --> 727.38] That Jesus Christ is Lord -[727.38 --> 735.38] I believe in you -[735.38 --> 739.38] I believe in you -[739.38 --> 740.38] I believe in you -[740.38 --> 741.38] I believe in you -[741.38 --> 743.38] I believe in you -[743.38 --> 749.12] I believe in you -[749.12 --> 750.06] I believe in you -[754.12 --> 760.18] I believe in you -[760.18 --> 760.52] God is three in blood -[760.52 --> 760.68] I believe in you -[760.68 --> 761.74] I believe in you -[761.74 --> 761.96] I believe in you -[761.96 --> 769.00] I believe in Jesus Christ is Lord -[769.00 --> 782.20] in your holy church i believe in the resurrection when jesus comes again for i believe in the name -[782.20 --> 794.12] of jesus i believe in god our father i believe in christ the son i believe in the holy spirit -[794.12 --> 804.44] our god is free in god i believe in the resurrection when we will rise again -[804.44 --> 810.44] for i believe in the name of jesus -[810.92 --> 820.44] for i believe in the name of jesus -[824.12 --> 850.44] be thou my vision -[850.44 --> 854.44] lord of my heart -[854.44 --> 858.44] not be all else to be saved -[858.44 --> 862.44] that thou art -[862.44 --> 864.44] thou might not -[864.44 --> 868.44] by day or by night -[869.40 --> 872.44] waking or sleeping -[872.44 --> 874.44] thy presence -[874.44 --> 878.44] my life -[878.44 --> 888.44] be thou my wisdom and thou my true word -[888.44 --> 896.44] i ever with thee and thou with me lord -[896.44 --> 900.44] thou my great father -[900.44 --> 904.44] i thy true son -[904.44 --> 906.44] thou with me dwelling -[906.44 --> 910.44] and i with thee one -[910.44 --> 912.44] thou -[912.44 --> 916.44] my -[916.44 --> 918.44] riches -[918.44 --> 920.44] i -[920.44 --> 922.44] not your man's empty praise -[922.44 --> 924.44] thou -[924.44 --> 926.44] my -[926.44 --> 928.44] inheritance -[928.44 --> 930.44] now and always -[930.44 --> 932.44] now and -[932.44 --> 934.44] thou only -[934.44 --> 936.44] thou -[936.44 --> 938.44] only -[938.44 --> 940.44] first -[940.44 --> 942.44] in my heart -[942.44 --> 944.44] my -[944.44 --> 946.44] my -[946.44 --> 948.44] my -[948.44 --> 950.44] my -[950.44 --> 952.44] my -[952.44 --> 954.44] my -[954.44 --> 956.44] my -[956.44 --> 962.44] my -[962.44 --> 976.44] my -[976.44 --> 978.44] my -[978.44 --> 982.44] my -[982.44 --> 984.44] my -[984.44 --> 986.44] my -[986.44 --> 988.44] my -[988.44 --> 990.44] my -[990.44 --> 992.44] my -[992.44 --> 994.44] my -[994.44 --> 996.44] my -[996.44 --> 998.44] my -[998.44 --> 1020.44] my -[1020.44 --> 1024.44] my -[1024.44 --> 1044.06] Hear our prayer, Lord. Amen. -[1047.98 --> 1052.92] Our words of assurance come from 1 Corinthians 2, verses 9 through 12. -[1052.92 --> 1056.10] However, as it is written, -[1057.32 --> 1068.66] The things God has prepared for those who love him, -[1069.38 --> 1073.50] these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit. -[1074.54 --> 1078.94] The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. -[1078.94 --> 1084.78] For who knows a person's thoughts except their own spirit within them? -[1085.66 --> 1090.50] In the same way, no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. -[1091.62 --> 1095.20] What we have received is not the Spirit of the world, -[1095.78 --> 1098.06] but the Spirit who is from God, -[1098.56 --> 1103.06] so that we may understand what God has freely given us. -[1103.06 --> 1106.16] Please rise and join us in song. -[1106.16 --> 1111.16] Holy Spirit, reign now, -[1111.16 --> 1123.54] Holy Spirit, reign now, -[1123.54 --> 1128.16] reign now, -[1128.16 --> 1132.16] reign now, -[1132.16 --> 1137.16] reign now, -[1137.16 --> 1142.16] reign now, -[1142.16 --> 1144.16] reign now, -[1144.16 --> 1148.16] oh, comforter and friend, -[1148.16 --> 1153.16] how we need your touch again, -[1153.16 --> 1155.16] holy spirit, -[1155.16 --> 1156.16] holy spirit, -[1156.16 --> 1157.16] holy spirit, -[1157.16 --> 1160.16] reign now, -[1160.16 --> 1162.16] reign now, -[1162.16 --> 1166.16] reign now, -[1166.16 --> 1169.16] let your power fall, -[1169.16 --> 1172.16] let your voice be heard, -[1172.16 --> 1175.16] come and change our hearts, -[1175.16 --> 1176.16] as we stand on your words, -[1176.16 --> 1178.16] as we stand on your word, -[1178.16 --> 1179.16] Holy Spirit, -[1179.16 --> 1182.16] reign now, -[1182.16 --> 1188.16] reign now, -[1188.16 --> 1190.16] holy spirit, -[1190.16 --> 1192.16] reign now, -[1192.16 --> 1193.16] reign now, -[1193.16 --> 1195.16] oh, comforter, -[1195.16 --> 1196.16] reign now, -[1196.16 --> 1198.16] reign now, -[1198.16 --> 1200.16] oh, comforter, -[1200.16 --> 1202.16] reign now, -[1202.16 --> 1206.16] oh, comforter and friend, -[1206.16 --> 1212.16] how we need your touch again, -[1212.16 --> 1214.16] holy spirit, -[1214.16 --> 1219.16] reign now, -[1219.16 --> 1224.16] reign now, -[1224.16 --> 1227.16] let your power fall, -[1227.16 --> 1230.16] let your voice be heard, -[1230.16 --> 1233.16] come and change our hearts, -[1233.16 --> 1236.16] as we stand on your word, -[1236.16 --> 1241.16] holy spirit, -[1241.16 --> 1247.16] reign now, -[1247.16 --> 1249.16] oh, comforter and friend, -[1249.16 --> 1251.16] no eye has seen, -[1251.16 --> 1254.16] no ear has heard, -[1254.16 --> 1257.16] no mind can know, -[1257.16 --> 1260.16] what God has in store, -[1260.16 --> 1263.16] so open up heaven, -[1263.16 --> 1266.16] open it wide, -[1266.16 --> 1269.16] over your church, -[1269.16 --> 1273.16] and over our lives, -[1273.16 --> 1275.16] Holy Spirit, -[1275.16 --> 1279.16] reign now, -[1279.16 --> 1281.16] reign now, -[1281.16 --> 1284.16] reign now, -[1284.16 --> 1286.16] reign now, -[1286.16 --> 1291.16] oh, comforter and friend, -[1291.16 --> 1296.16] how we need your touch again, -[1296.16 --> 1298.16] holy spirit, -[1298.16 --> 1302.16] reign now, -[1302.16 --> 1304.16] reign now, -[1304.16 --> 1308.16] reign now, -[1308.16 --> 1311.16] let your power fall, -[1311.16 --> 1312.16] let your power fall, -[1312.16 --> 1315.16] let your voice be heard, -[1315.16 --> 1318.16] come and change our hearts, -[1318.16 --> 1321.16] as we stand on your word, -[1321.16 --> 1323.16] holy spirit, -[1323.16 --> 1325.16] reign now, -[1325.16 --> 1329.16] cai nå, -[1329.16 --> 1340.16] let your rose, -[1340.16 --> 1353.16] join me, -[1353.16 --> 1358.42] The gift of grace is Jesus my Redeemer. -[1359.44 --> 1365.56] There is no more for heaven now to give. -[1366.22 --> 1371.90] He is my joy, my righteousness and freedom, -[1373.02 --> 1379.00] my steadfast love and deep and boundless peace. -[1379.00 --> 1385.46] To this I hold, my hope is only Jesus, -[1386.66 --> 1392.84] for my life is wholly bound to His. -[1393.58 --> 1398.00] Oh, how strange and divine I can sing, -[1398.62 --> 1405.12] all is mine, yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[1409.00 --> 1421.92] The night is dark, but I am not forsaken, -[1422.72 --> 1428.46] for by my side the Savior He will stay. -[1428.46 --> 1435.78] I labor on in weakness and rejoicing, -[1436.34 --> 1442.18] for in my need His power is to slay. -[1442.86 --> 1449.12] To this I hold, my shepherd will defend me, -[1449.12 --> 1455.12] through the deepest valley He will lead. -[1456.50 --> 1459.52] Oh, the night has been won, -[1459.88 --> 1462.42] and I shall overcome, -[1463.16 --> 1467.94] yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[1467.94 --> 1484.34] No fate I dread, I know I am forgiven. -[1485.40 --> 1490.94] The future's sure, the price it has been paid. -[1490.94 --> 1497.52] For Jesus bled and suffered for my pardon, -[1498.14 --> 1503.72] and He was raised to overthrow the grave. -[1504.78 --> 1510.32] To this I hold, my sin has been defeated. -[1510.32 --> 1517.32] Jesus now and ever, my King. -[1517.32 --> 1521.20] Oh, the chains are released, -[1521.20 --> 1524.50] I can sing, I am free, -[1524.88 --> 1529.32] yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[1529.32 --> 1546.22] With every breath I long to follow Jesus, -[1547.06 --> 1553.48] for He has said that He will bring me home, -[1553.48 --> 1559.48] and day by day I know He will renew me, -[1559.48 --> 1566.48] until I stand with joy before the throne. -[1566.48 --> 1572.62] To this I hold, my hope is only Jesus, -[1572.62 --> 1578.92] all the glory evermore to Him. -[1578.92 --> 1582.92] When the race is complete, -[1582.92 --> 1584.92] when the race is complete, -[1584.92 --> 1586.92] still my lips shall repeat, -[1586.92 --> 1591.92] yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[1591.92 --> 1597.92] To this I hold, my hope is only Jesus, -[1597.92 --> 1604.92] all the glory evermore to Him. -[1604.92 --> 1608.92] When the race is complete, -[1608.92 --> 1611.92] still my lips shall repeat, -[1611.92 --> 1617.92] yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[1617.92 --> 1620.92] Yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[1621.92 --> 1633.92] Yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[1633.92 --> 1641.74] Yet not I, but through Christ in me. -[1645.84 --> 1660.20] Good morning, my name is Mike and I'm a deacon here at the church. -[1660.20 --> 1665.14] And we have an opportunity now to give of our blessings and worship God in this way. -[1665.54 --> 1668.66] So today we've designated the offering to Night Shift Ministries. -[1669.30 --> 1674.14] And Night Shift is a ministry that I think this church has been involved with almost since it started. -[1674.58 --> 1678.64] They've been serving the less fortunate for over 20 years in Surrey. -[1678.78 --> 1682.16] And they actually do spend some nights helping out in Langley. -[1682.60 --> 1684.80] And it is 365 days a year. -[1684.80 --> 1690.94] There are staff and volunteers and churches connecting with people that have some pretty immediate needs. -[1691.38 --> 1697.74] They deal with meals, clothing, crisis care, basic nursing, prayer, drop-in services, Bible studies. -[1698.16 --> 1700.42] A whole gambit of really awesome things. -[1700.68 --> 1703.72] So thank you for giving of your gifts today. -[1703.72 --> 1733.70] Thank you. -[1733.70 --> 1735.70] Thank you. -[1735.70 --> 1736.70] Thank you. -[1736.70 --> 1737.70] Thank you. -[1737.70 --> 1740.70] Thank you. -[1740.70 --> 1741.70] Thank you. -[1741.70 --> 1745.70] Thank you. -[1770.70 --> 1773.72] Your will is what I want. -[1774.12 --> 1776.78] Jesus, have it all. -[1779.74 --> 1782.98] Jesus, have it all. -[1783.40 --> 1786.02] Jesus, have it all. -[1786.34 --> 1789.04] To you belongs the glory, -[1789.50 --> 1792.00] the praise of all the world. -[1792.74 --> 1794.78] Jesus, have it all. -[1795.78 --> 1797.78] Jesus, have it all. -[1797.78 --> 1800.78] A blessing and all honor, -[1801.92 --> 1804.70] a majesty and all. -[1805.12 --> 1807.78] Jesus, have it all. -[1810.68 --> 1813.90] Jesus, have your church, -[1814.02 --> 1816.84] your love, your pride, -[1817.24 --> 1821.22] the joy for which you freely gave. -[1821.64 --> 1825.90] Your life, radiant in white, -[1825.90 --> 1829.24] washed and pure in white. -[1829.66 --> 1831.94] Jesus, have it all. -[1835.20 --> 1837.90] Jesus, have your worth, -[1838.56 --> 1841.24] your due, your sound. -[1841.78 --> 1843.90] The praise of every nation, -[1845.10 --> 1847.40] tribe and town. -[1847.40 --> 1850.48] And all that has been made, -[1850.48 --> 1853.86] glorify your name. -[1853.86 --> 1857.40] Jesus, have it all. -[1857.40 --> 1862.40] Jesus, have it all. -[1862.40 --> 1864.40] Jesus, have it all. -[1864.40 --> 1866.20] Jesus, have it all. -[1866.40 --> 1868.40] To you belongs the glory, -[1869.74 --> 1872.16] the praise of all the world. -[1872.90 --> 1875.58] Jesus, have it all. -[1875.82 --> 1878.56] Jesus, have it all. -[1878.56 --> 1881.56] All blessing and all honor, -[1881.56 --> 1884.80] all majesty and all. -[1884.80 --> 1887.80] Jesus, have it all. -[1887.86 --> 1890.56] Jesus, have it all. -[1890.56 --> 1893.98] To you belongs the glory, -[1894.44 --> 1896.86] the praise of all the world. -[1897.40 --> 1899.56] Jesus, have it all. -[1900.62 --> 1902.98] Jesus, have it all. -[1902.98 --> 1906.28] All blessing and all honor, -[1906.28 --> 1909.52] all majesty and all. -[1909.52 --> 1913.00] Jesus, have it all. -[1932.98 --> 1944.42] All my days, all my life, have it all. -[1944.42 --> 1957.28] All my days, all my life, have it all. -[1957.28 --> 1969.06] All my days, all my life, have it all. -[1969.06 --> 1981.56] All my days, all my life, have it all. -[1987.28 --> 1995.88] Good morning, if I could invite all the three-year-olds to grade four to the front to join me for just -[1995.88 --> 1999.12] a little highlight of our lesson today and our children's blessing. -[2002.46 --> 2004.16] Right, right nice and close. -[2005.34 --> 2006.20] Hi, everybody. -[2006.86 --> 2007.34] Hi. -[2007.74 --> 2011.84] Hey, do you guys ever try to be like somebody else? -[2012.48 --> 2012.92] No. -[2013.18 --> 2013.36] No? -[2013.52 --> 2015.14] We're pretty happy with who we are? -[2015.14 --> 2018.88] Well, I'm going to try to be like somebody else right now. -[2018.98 --> 2019.78] Well, kind of. -[2020.10 --> 2024.28] And you have to try and guess who am I trying to be like. -[2025.02 --> 2026.66] This is going to be a little bit hard, actually. -[2026.82 --> 2029.04] But you probably guess what this person is. -[2029.08 --> 2029.70] So I'm going to start. -[2029.88 --> 2032.68] I'm starting with, I'm wearing jeans, blue jeans. -[2032.78 --> 2035.12] This person always wears blue jeans. -[2037.12 --> 2041.02] And I'm going to put on a bright plaid shirt. -[2041.02 --> 2045.04] This person always wears a bright plaid shirt. -[2045.14 --> 2045.66] What did you get? -[2045.98 --> 2047.04] A farmer. -[2047.48 --> 2048.58] That's a good clue. -[2049.12 --> 2049.36] All right. -[2049.42 --> 2056.64] Well, then let's just finish the farmer attire. -[2057.58 --> 2057.70] Huh? -[2057.84 --> 2058.94] Do farmers wear rubber boots? -[2059.36 --> 2059.80] Yeah. -[2060.20 --> 2063.84] This person, I always saw them in a plaid shirt and rubber boots. -[2065.34 --> 2066.12] A farmer. -[2066.12 --> 2066.60] A farmer. -[2067.00 --> 2069.40] Who do you think I know that's a farmer? -[2069.76 --> 2069.98] Who? -[2070.54 --> 2070.80] Who? -[2071.60 --> 2072.64] Oh, my gosh. -[2072.76 --> 2072.92] Yeah. -[2073.08 --> 2077.98] His favorite toy was a bobcat for most of my life. -[2078.60 --> 2079.28] Do you have a guess, Gary? -[2080.38 --> 2081.64] Oh, a construction man. -[2081.74 --> 2083.14] This guy also worked in construction. -[2083.54 --> 2086.28] You might not know who this is, but there are clues. -[2086.28 --> 2092.96] Every morning when I would go to the school bus, there's a clue, when I was a kid, I would -[2092.96 --> 2098.52] see him standing at the edge of the barn in rubber boots and a plaid shirt and a toque -[2098.52 --> 2101.80] that he never really put on. -[2102.34 --> 2105.80] Like, it was always pooping up like this with his little bobble. -[2106.60 --> 2109.76] And he would wave as we were getting onto the school bus. -[2110.22 --> 2111.54] Who do you think that would be? -[2112.00 --> 2115.08] Who would wave at me before getting onto the school bus every morning? -[2115.08 --> 2116.32] The driver? -[2117.58 --> 2118.12] Not quite. -[2119.50 --> 2120.66] You guys don't know this guy. -[2120.76 --> 2121.60] This is my dad. -[2122.04 --> 2123.48] My dad is a farmer. -[2123.88 --> 2125.32] And he was also a construction worker. -[2125.52 --> 2129.74] And this is pretty much what he wore every day of his life, including a toque just like -[2129.74 --> 2130.02] this. -[2130.60 --> 2131.30] Kind of funny. -[2132.30 --> 2134.12] And his favorite toy was a bobcat. -[2134.86 --> 2141.12] And I think if some of my other siblings were here, they would know for sure that I was -[2141.12 --> 2142.64] pretending to be my dad right now. -[2143.06 --> 2143.36] Yeah? -[2143.36 --> 2143.46] Yeah? -[2145.08 --> 2145.44] Yeah. -[2147.68 --> 2148.02] Totally. -[2148.50 --> 2153.88] So, today we've been talking about, or in Children's Worship Time, we've been talking -[2153.88 --> 2154.98] about the book of Matthew. -[2155.16 --> 2161.56] And today's lesson is now a section in the book of Matthew that gives us instructions -[2161.56 --> 2165.10] on how to be a little bit more like God. -[2165.10 --> 2167.22] So, what are the things we would wear? -[2167.30 --> 2172.34] What are the things we would do that would help people know that we believe in God and -[2172.34 --> 2173.20] we're pointing to him? -[2173.70 --> 2173.94] Okay? -[2174.02 --> 2176.18] So, we're going to talk about that more in Children's Worship Time today. -[2176.38 --> 2180.82] And I want to hear a little bit more from you guys who you maybe try to be like sometimes. -[2181.14 --> 2181.34] Yeah? -[2181.34 --> 2187.38] Okay, let's stand with the congregation and we will do our children's blessing. -[2188.90 --> 2190.22] We'll lift our hands. -[2192.02 --> 2193.42] And together say, -[2193.92 --> 2195.68] The Lord be with you. -[2196.02 --> 2197.20] And also with you. -[2197.20 --> 2198.72] All right, we'll see you in worship time. -[2198.72 --> 2200.96] Thank you. -[2200.96 --> 2225.30] Good morning. -[2225.30 --> 2225.38] Good morning. -[2225.66 --> 2230.14] My name is Haley and I will be leading us in our church family prayer this morning. -[2230.96 --> 2233.40] Please join me in prayer. -[2235.32 --> 2240.24] Dear Heavenly Father, we gather before you in this morning hour as your people and we -[2240.24 --> 2242.46] praise you for the many blessings you have given us. -[2242.98 --> 2246.70] We are so blessed to live where we do, surrounded by the beauty of your creation. -[2247.54 --> 2251.30] Thank you for the rain and the wind and the glorious sunshine when it's here. -[2251.58 --> 2255.32] Thank you for our families and friends, for we babies and grandparents. -[2256.08 --> 2258.38] Thank you for the gift of your son, our Savior. -[2258.38 --> 2265.58] In these dark and dreary February days, help us to remember the good news of great joy that is for all people. -[2267.02 --> 2273.86] Forgive us for forgetting when the world around us fills our minds and hearts with worry, despair, and ourselves. -[2274.76 --> 2278.00] Thank you that your love never changes and never fades. -[2278.00 --> 2285.98] Thank you for coming to save us from our sinful condition and for giving us eternal life and the joy of a personal relationship with you, our Lord. -[2286.64 --> 2291.10] Thank you for the promise of your birth and the power of your death and resurrection. -[2291.10 --> 2298.70] We praise you and thank you that John and Helen celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this week. -[2299.44 --> 2302.88] We pray that you will bless them in their 51st year of marriage. -[2303.60 --> 2307.86] We thank you alongside the Fulkerts and Kunst families for the birth of baby Jake. -[2308.44 --> 2309.90] Please bless him and keep him. -[2309.90 --> 2313.50] Lord, we pray for all those who are grieving. -[2313.98 --> 2315.68] Comfort them and be near to them. -[2316.36 --> 2320.14] We pray for those who struggle with their mental health and other invisible illnesses. -[2321.02 --> 2325.54] Remind us as a church to surround them and comfort them, for we are your hands and feet. -[2326.98 --> 2327.98] The Lord reigns. -[2328.30 --> 2329.48] He is roped in majesty. -[2330.10 --> 2332.98] The Lord is roped in majesty and armed with strength. -[2333.60 --> 2337.34] Indeed, the world is established, firm, and secure. -[2337.34 --> 2339.70] Your throne was established long ago. -[2340.30 --> 2341.68] You are from all eternity. -[2342.40 --> 2343.74] In Jesus' name we pray. -[2344.12 --> 2344.40] Amen. -[2361.48 --> 2365.74] Growing up, I was actually a fairly little child. -[2365.74 --> 2371.36] For years, actually, people thought that me and my brother, who was two years younger than I, were twins. -[2371.82 --> 2375.86] Mostly because I was fairly small and my brother was a little bit of a chunkster when he was young. -[2376.58 --> 2380.98] There should be a picture actually coming up on the screen behind me and I'll have you guess which one I was. -[2382.40 --> 2383.24] See, it's hard to tell. -[2384.28 --> 2386.20] Anyways, I was the runt in school. -[2386.44 --> 2393.68] But all of that changed in a glorious summer between grade five and grade six where I just shot up like a rocket. -[2393.68 --> 2397.10] Instantly, I was one of the tallest people in my grade. -[2397.66 --> 2405.74] I was the starting center of our school's basketball team and rebounding the basketball became what I thought God's calling for my life was. -[2406.18 --> 2411.84] I considered myself a blander, blonder, maybe more civil Dennis Rodman. -[2411.84 --> 2422.14] But I remember one day, back then, after that summer, just towering over my little brother, looking down on him and just saying, -[2422.76 --> 2424.44] Remember how people thought we were twins? -[2424.80 --> 2426.56] You will never be taller than me. -[2426.56 --> 2432.74] The Lord taught me a lot of humility over those next few years because I have never grown taller than that moment. -[2432.94 --> 2440.06] And my brother, who again is two years younger than me, in the next five years, actually about five years after I considered him obsolete, -[2440.40 --> 2442.48] he grew to a whopping six foot seven. -[2442.48 --> 2453.00] And so now, when we play basketball together, between his height advantage and the fact that I've got the vertical of a walrus, -[2453.10 --> 2456.20] there's just no competition anymore when we play ball. -[2457.70 --> 2463.36] Now, I tell you that little bit of family history because today we're going to be looking at humility. -[2463.36 --> 2473.24] We're going to see that humility is something that becomes a piece of who we are once we are transformed by the renewing of our minds in Jesus Christ. -[2473.34 --> 2479.98] And while that rarely has anything to do with how tall you are, it does have to do with the gifts that God has given us. -[2480.82 --> 2484.78] So if you're joining us today for the first time, we've been working our way through Romans. -[2485.02 --> 2489.64] And today we find ourselves at Romans chapter 12, verses 3 to 8. -[2489.64 --> 2492.52] So if you have your Bibles with you, I encourage you, please open those up. -[2492.52 --> 2494.84] You can grab one from the back if you wish. -[2495.58 --> 2499.08] And at the beginning here, the words will be on this screen. -[2499.16 --> 2501.00] But I do encourage you, keep those Bibles open. -[2501.08 --> 2506.14] Or if you have the Bible on your phone, you can open up your app and keep those beside you -[2506.14 --> 2509.10] because we will be going back to this text throughout this message. -[2509.50 --> 2514.20] So please follow along here as we read Romans 12, verses 3 to 8. -[2515.80 --> 2519.80] For by the grace given to me, I say to every one of you, -[2519.80 --> 2526.62] Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, -[2527.06 --> 2530.00] in according with the faith God has distributed to each of you. -[2530.48 --> 2536.22] For just as each of you has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, -[2536.22 --> 2543.36] so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. -[2543.96 --> 2547.78] We have different gifts according to the grace given to each of us. -[2547.98 --> 2552.02] If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith. -[2552.20 --> 2554.06] If it is serving, then serve. -[2554.32 --> 2556.16] If it is teaching, then teach. -[2556.66 --> 2559.22] If it is to encourage, then... -[2559.22 --> 2560.74] I've lost my spot there. -[2560.74 --> 2563.18] If it is to encourage, then give encouragement. -[2563.44 --> 2565.50] If it is giving, then give generously. -[2565.88 --> 2568.08] If it is to lead, do it diligently. -[2569.18 --> 2572.38] If it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. -[2573.32 --> 2574.46] The word of the Lord. -[2577.04 --> 2582.48] Now last week, Pastor Chris led us through the first two verses in Romans 12, -[2582.48 --> 2587.34] which is likely the biggest transitionary verse in this entire letter. -[2587.34 --> 2591.40] The whole letter up until that point, Romans 1 to Romans 11, -[2591.84 --> 2595.86] was about how due to human sin, the only way to be justified, -[2596.20 --> 2597.70] or the only way to be saved, -[2598.30 --> 2601.44] is by grace alone, through faith alone, -[2601.74 --> 2603.96] because of Christ alone. -[2604.98 --> 2606.70] Then Romans 12 starts, -[2606.78 --> 2609.54] and last week we learned that once we understand that truth, -[2609.82 --> 2613.42] once we understand the magnitude of that reality, -[2613.42 --> 2616.84] once we really grasp how God's grace and mercy -[2616.84 --> 2619.42] sets into our lives and our minds, -[2619.78 --> 2622.42] the only thing that makes sense -[2622.42 --> 2624.68] is to give it all to God. -[2625.38 --> 2626.48] All of ourselves. -[2626.86 --> 2629.42] Our lives, our joys, our griefs, -[2630.16 --> 2631.50] our doubts, our everything. -[2632.48 --> 2635.48] That is our new spiritual reality. -[2635.60 --> 2638.18] That's what the renewing of our minds looks like. -[2639.22 --> 2642.56] Today, this text continues down that same vein. -[2643.30 --> 2647.44] Our text today is very much connected to our text from last week. -[2647.54 --> 2650.60] And we know this because our text today starts with the word for. -[2651.12 --> 2653.16] For, which means that everything afterwards, -[2653.32 --> 2654.46] everything after the word for, -[2654.54 --> 2656.02] is connected to the words before it. -[2657.12 --> 2657.38] All right? -[2657.44 --> 2658.46] So in light of that, -[2658.84 --> 2661.42] the big idea, which is connected to last week, is this. -[2661.84 --> 2663.94] By giving everything we have to God, -[2664.12 --> 2664.90] two things happen. -[2665.64 --> 2667.26] First, we humble ourselves. -[2667.26 --> 2670.82] And then second, in that humility, -[2671.20 --> 2673.02] we give of ourselves to the church. -[2673.98 --> 2675.62] So we humble ourselves, -[2675.82 --> 2677.96] and we give ourselves to the church. -[2679.14 --> 2682.40] Last week was our new spiritual reality. -[2682.92 --> 2685.02] This week, we look at the practical reality -[2685.02 --> 2686.08] that comes out of that, -[2686.14 --> 2688.78] that is birthed out of our new spiritual reality. -[2688.90 --> 2691.00] And so we're going to take a look at why that is. -[2691.00 --> 2693.84] So knowing where we have come from, -[2694.14 --> 2695.68] that because of God's grace and mercy, -[2695.80 --> 2697.20] we're to give everything over to God, -[2697.28 --> 2698.70] our text tells us -[2698.70 --> 2703.16] what our natural or practical outcome for our lives is, -[2703.26 --> 2705.28] what our reaction will be. -[2706.18 --> 2707.72] Now, please hear that. -[2708.52 --> 2711.90] Because today's text is not like an optional thing. -[2711.98 --> 2713.34] It's not an optional outcome. -[2713.44 --> 2714.48] It's not saying that, -[2714.78 --> 2715.88] hey, your mind is renewed, -[2715.88 --> 2717.86] so now maybe try these things. -[2718.84 --> 2720.00] That's not what it's saying. -[2720.48 --> 2723.06] The consequence or the ramifications, -[2723.42 --> 2724.76] or really to speak positively, -[2724.84 --> 2726.34] because this is a positive outcome, -[2726.74 --> 2730.40] the natural work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, -[2730.42 --> 2731.46] once we've done that, -[2732.10 --> 2734.36] is humility and service. -[2736.50 --> 2737.50] Well, take a look at this. -[2739.22 --> 2741.76] Humility is the default response -[2741.76 --> 2742.90] to an understanding -[2742.90 --> 2746.08] that the only thing that we contribute -[2746.08 --> 2747.24] to our salvation -[2747.24 --> 2750.38] is the sin that we need saving from. -[2752.12 --> 2754.92] Humility becomes the default response -[2754.92 --> 2756.38] to an understanding -[2756.38 --> 2761.28] that once grace and faith -[2761.28 --> 2764.12] have entered the narrative of our lives, -[2764.42 --> 2766.54] the only thing we can do -[2766.54 --> 2768.78] is be grateful and be humble. -[2771.32 --> 2772.48] Verse 3 says that. -[2772.48 --> 2774.38] Now, it may not be as obvious in English -[2774.38 --> 2775.98] as it is in Greek in verse 3. -[2776.30 --> 2777.36] Paul actually starts using -[2777.36 --> 2779.28] very poetic language here in the Greek. -[2779.76 --> 2781.60] And without wanting to Greek out too much, -[2782.02 --> 2783.36] Paul interchanges two words. -[2783.46 --> 2786.24] He interchanges the word phronio, -[2786.84 --> 2788.72] which means to reason or to think, -[2789.04 --> 2790.82] with the word huberphronio, -[2790.92 --> 2792.78] which means to be proud or to be arrogant. -[2793.16 --> 2794.68] And I say this just for one reason. -[2795.12 --> 2796.72] When authors of letters like this -[2796.72 --> 2798.64] start using poetry and wordplay -[2798.64 --> 2799.40] and stuff like that, -[2799.40 --> 2801.10] it's because they're honing in on a point. -[2801.10 --> 2803.48] They're trying to emphasize something. -[2804.50 --> 2805.88] And Paul here is saying, -[2806.38 --> 2807.44] don't be proud and arrogant. -[2807.60 --> 2808.96] That's not who you are anymore. -[2810.00 --> 2810.92] Because of the faith -[2810.92 --> 2812.54] that God has distributed to you, -[2812.90 --> 2814.46] don't think too highly of yourself. -[2814.84 --> 2816.22] Acknowledge that it's all God. -[2816.60 --> 2818.24] Give yourself over to him. -[2818.70 --> 2820.68] Humility follows faith. -[2822.86 --> 2824.84] Now, remember, humility is not, -[2824.90 --> 2825.90] being humble humility, -[2825.90 --> 2828.00] it's not the same as self-loathing -[2828.00 --> 2830.00] or self-deprivation. -[2830.12 --> 2831.98] That's far too deep a dive, -[2832.04 --> 2832.74] far too negative. -[2833.26 --> 2836.10] But humility is self-awareness. -[2837.30 --> 2839.20] Self-awareness to the fact -[2839.20 --> 2841.32] that God created you. -[2841.86 --> 2843.36] So anything you accomplish -[2843.36 --> 2845.16] is because of God and God alone. -[2846.70 --> 2848.02] It's self-awareness to the fact -[2848.02 --> 2849.94] that Jesus saved you. -[2850.48 --> 2852.98] And so anything you hope to do going forward -[2852.98 --> 2854.20] is only possible -[2854.20 --> 2857.18] because Jesus intervened in your life. -[2858.52 --> 2859.86] Self-awareness to the fact -[2859.86 --> 2861.16] that the triune God -[2861.16 --> 2863.36] loves you so much, -[2863.62 --> 2864.36] no matter what. -[2864.44 --> 2865.60] So even if pride -[2865.60 --> 2867.24] isn't an issue in your life, -[2867.30 --> 2869.10] but maybe the other end of the spectrum is, -[2869.30 --> 2870.54] maybe low self-worth -[2870.54 --> 2871.92] or low self-esteem is, -[2872.94 --> 2874.50] God is with you -[2874.50 --> 2875.54] and he loves you more -[2875.54 --> 2876.50] than you will ever know. -[2876.50 --> 2879.48] That's the humility, -[2879.62 --> 2880.46] the self-awareness -[2880.46 --> 2881.84] that he is calling us to today. -[2882.04 --> 2883.74] We live out this humility -[2883.74 --> 2885.50] by accepting the fact -[2885.50 --> 2887.34] that we are to be made less -[2887.34 --> 2888.94] and Christ is to be made more. -[2891.00 --> 2892.58] And so, as verse 3 says, -[2892.68 --> 2894.02] we are to think of ourselves -[2894.02 --> 2895.36] with sober judgment -[2895.36 --> 2898.36] in accordance with the faith -[2898.36 --> 2899.90] that God has distributed -[2899.90 --> 2900.72] to each of you. -[2902.24 --> 2903.54] Notice the barometer -[2903.54 --> 2905.74] that we use to check our humility -[2905.74 --> 2906.62] is the faith -[2906.62 --> 2908.92] that God has distributed to you. -[2908.96 --> 2909.64] Now, this is important -[2909.64 --> 2910.32] for two reasons. -[2911.88 --> 2912.96] The first is, -[2913.06 --> 2913.58] oftentimes, -[2914.10 --> 2914.80] when we are trying -[2914.80 --> 2916.14] to check our self-worth, -[2916.62 --> 2917.74] we compare ourselves -[2917.74 --> 2918.98] not to the faith -[2918.98 --> 2920.56] that's been distributed to us, -[2920.94 --> 2922.28] but we compare ourselves -[2922.28 --> 2923.04] to the community -[2923.04 --> 2924.46] that we find ourselves in. -[2925.98 --> 2927.46] Now, this is extremely, -[2927.64 --> 2928.52] extremely prevalent -[2928.52 --> 2929.54] in our world, isn't it? -[2930.22 --> 2932.24] We are always measuring ourselves -[2932.24 --> 2933.32] against other people. -[2933.42 --> 2934.52] We compare ourselves -[2934.52 --> 2935.46] to one another -[2935.46 --> 2936.94] in schools for decades. -[2937.48 --> 2938.28] If you want to climb -[2938.28 --> 2939.06] the social ladder, -[2939.34 --> 2939.84] you make sure -[2939.84 --> 2940.72] to do shoulder checks. -[2940.80 --> 2941.64] You place yourselves -[2941.64 --> 2942.64] in the right friend groups, -[2942.92 --> 2943.72] you put yourselves -[2943.72 --> 2945.02] doing the right activities, -[2945.40 --> 2946.68] signing up for the right clubs, -[2946.76 --> 2947.84] only attending things -[2947.84 --> 2949.70] if certain people are there. -[2950.42 --> 2952.30] Whether this is a conscious thing -[2952.30 --> 2953.70] or a subconscious thing, -[2953.94 --> 2954.76] we believe that -[2954.76 --> 2955.96] our social standing -[2955.96 --> 2957.70] depends on constant -[2957.70 --> 2958.36] shoulder checking -[2958.36 --> 2959.24] on who's around me -[2959.24 --> 2960.36] and who am I fitting in with. -[2960.36 --> 2963.40] Now, this concept, -[2963.58 --> 2964.22] which has been true -[2964.22 --> 2964.92] in real life -[2964.92 --> 2965.70] for a long time, -[2965.78 --> 2967.08] has only been magnified -[2967.08 --> 2968.22] recently online. -[2969.68 --> 2971.24] While real life comparisons -[2971.24 --> 2972.42] are still everywhere, -[2972.96 --> 2973.84] they have become -[2973.84 --> 2975.88] just ringing gongs -[2975.88 --> 2976.90] right now -[2976.90 --> 2978.76] because of social media platforms. -[2979.62 --> 2981.34] Now, social media platforms, -[2981.46 --> 2982.28] they've predominantly -[2982.28 --> 2983.48] become one of two things. -[2984.02 --> 2986.04] First, they're just a cesspool -[2986.04 --> 2987.16] of false headlines -[2987.16 --> 2988.36] and biased information, -[2988.50 --> 2989.06] so be careful -[2989.06 --> 2989.90] what you read out there, -[2989.96 --> 2990.52] but that's a sermon -[2990.52 --> 2991.08] for another day. -[2991.62 --> 2992.26] Number two, -[2994.28 --> 2995.26] social media platforms -[2995.26 --> 2996.18] have become a place -[2996.18 --> 2997.84] where everyone's life -[2997.84 --> 2999.02] becomes so easily -[2999.02 --> 3000.02] compared with yours. -[3002.42 --> 3003.62] I don't think this news -[3003.62 --> 3004.40] is necessarily -[3004.40 --> 3006.16] that surprising to us today. -[3006.50 --> 3007.06] Many of us -[3007.06 --> 3008.12] have heard this before. -[3008.40 --> 3008.98] Many of us maybe -[3008.98 --> 3009.96] even understand this -[3009.96 --> 3010.60] to some degree, -[3011.00 --> 3011.88] but the fact that -[3011.88 --> 3013.28] we compare our lives -[3013.28 --> 3014.28] to illusions -[3014.28 --> 3015.70] that we see online -[3015.70 --> 3016.72] is information -[3016.72 --> 3017.24] that honestly -[3017.24 --> 3017.96] goes in one ear -[3017.96 --> 3018.74] and comes out the other, -[3019.74 --> 3020.26] and that happens -[3020.26 --> 3021.30] far too often. -[3022.44 --> 3024.72] We need to stop -[3024.72 --> 3026.14] comparing ourselves -[3026.14 --> 3026.78] to each other. -[3026.88 --> 3027.76] We need to. -[3029.24 --> 3030.90] Voices with far more influence -[3030.90 --> 3031.36] than mine -[3031.36 --> 3032.38] are saying the same thing. -[3032.96 --> 3034.24] Speaking about posting -[3034.24 --> 3035.94] to social media platforms, -[3036.52 --> 3037.92] musical artist -[3037.92 --> 3039.56] Hosier says this. -[3039.62 --> 3039.90] He says, -[3039.90 --> 3040.66] social media -[3040.66 --> 3042.12] is an advertisement -[3042.12 --> 3043.28] for the superficial -[3043.28 --> 3044.56] extroverted self. -[3045.78 --> 3046.54] Germany Kent, -[3046.72 --> 3047.66] she's a journalist, -[3047.80 --> 3048.54] a philanthropist, -[3048.54 --> 3049.72] and she wrote a book -[3049.72 --> 3050.78] in 2015 called -[3050.78 --> 3051.70] You Are What You Tweet. -[3051.80 --> 3052.42] She says this, -[3052.74 --> 3054.00] there is a valid reason -[3054.00 --> 3055.30] social media is linked -[3055.30 --> 3056.34] to depression and loneliness. -[3056.88 --> 3057.72] We live in a time -[3057.72 --> 3058.48] where many people -[3058.48 --> 3059.90] spend countless hours -[3059.90 --> 3060.98] a day online -[3060.98 --> 3062.32] strolling through -[3062.32 --> 3063.44] the timeline of others -[3063.44 --> 3064.94] with envy, regret, -[3065.10 --> 3066.50] and little appreciation -[3066.50 --> 3067.36] for their own life. -[3068.50 --> 3069.30] And finally, -[3069.40 --> 3070.20] perhaps the most quoted -[3070.20 --> 3071.06] individual of all -[3071.06 --> 3071.50] of history -[3071.50 --> 3072.40] who goes by the name -[3072.40 --> 3072.86] anonymous -[3072.86 --> 3075.22] has this to say. -[3075.78 --> 3076.36] Social media -[3076.36 --> 3077.04] has created -[3077.04 --> 3078.06] jealous behavior -[3078.06 --> 3079.36] over illusions. -[3080.32 --> 3080.62] Sadly, -[3080.76 --> 3081.44] some are envious -[3081.44 --> 3082.12] of things, -[3082.54 --> 3083.02] relationships, -[3083.38 --> 3084.32] and lifestyles -[3084.32 --> 3085.82] that don't even exist. -[3087.56 --> 3088.34] I don't need to -[3088.34 --> 3089.68] berate this point anymore, -[3089.80 --> 3090.72] but so many of us -[3090.72 --> 3091.86] compare our self-worth -[3091.86 --> 3093.70] to the social media universe -[3093.70 --> 3094.80] or to the community -[3094.80 --> 3095.58] in which we live, -[3095.74 --> 3096.72] and it just doesn't -[3096.72 --> 3097.32] make sense. -[3098.16 --> 3099.36] What's posted online -[3099.36 --> 3100.00] isn't real, -[3100.00 --> 3100.74] it's a highlight, -[3100.86 --> 3101.60] and yet we compare -[3101.60 --> 3102.90] ourselves and our lives -[3102.90 --> 3103.74] and what we have -[3103.74 --> 3104.90] to that all the time. -[3105.18 --> 3106.56] We compare ourselves -[3106.56 --> 3108.42] to the best snapshots -[3108.42 --> 3109.88] people have to offer -[3109.88 --> 3112.30] all the time. -[3112.76 --> 3114.22] And when we compare -[3114.22 --> 3116.00] ourselves to other people, -[3116.54 --> 3117.44] whether it's for -[3117.44 --> 3118.42] personal reasons -[3118.42 --> 3119.66] or social reasons -[3119.66 --> 3121.10] or even corporate reasons, -[3122.00 --> 3123.18] only one of two things -[3123.18 --> 3123.58] happens. -[3125.12 --> 3126.84] We either see ourselves -[3126.84 --> 3128.40] as better than the other, -[3128.40 --> 3129.80] which fills up -[3129.80 --> 3130.86] our prideful hearts, -[3131.12 --> 3133.16] or we see ourselves -[3133.16 --> 3134.30] as worse than the other, -[3134.56 --> 3136.70] which fuels our anxiety -[3136.70 --> 3137.42] and our depression -[3137.42 --> 3138.06] even more. -[3139.70 --> 3140.82] When we compare -[3140.82 --> 3141.78] ourselves to others, -[3141.86 --> 3143.02] we increase our pride -[3143.02 --> 3143.60] and arrogance -[3143.60 --> 3144.70] or we increase -[3144.70 --> 3145.38] our anxiety -[3145.38 --> 3145.98] and depression, -[3146.12 --> 3148.64] and yet the data -[3148.64 --> 3149.36] is showing that -[3149.36 --> 3150.44] we get high -[3150.44 --> 3152.68] on comparing ourselves -[3152.68 --> 3153.30] to each other, -[3154.02 --> 3155.52] and we stop thinking -[3155.52 --> 3156.06] of ourselves -[3156.06 --> 3157.36] with sober judgment. -[3158.40 --> 3161.78] But Paul here says -[3161.78 --> 3162.52] there's a better way. -[3163.92 --> 3164.80] Renewed minds -[3164.80 --> 3165.62] call us to measure -[3165.62 --> 3166.56] ourselves not against -[3166.56 --> 3167.06] others, -[3168.02 --> 3169.64] but with sober judgment -[3169.64 --> 3170.88] in accordance -[3170.88 --> 3172.12] with the faith -[3172.12 --> 3173.22] God has given us. -[3174.58 --> 3175.60] So what is this faith? -[3175.76 --> 3177.08] This faith that we're -[3177.08 --> 3178.32] to measure ourselves with? -[3178.48 --> 3179.36] Is this faith -[3179.36 --> 3180.42] a tangible thing? -[3180.64 --> 3182.50] Or is this a feeling -[3182.50 --> 3183.10] of something -[3183.10 --> 3183.72] that we're supposed -[3183.72 --> 3184.28] to have? -[3185.62 --> 3186.36] When I looked into -[3186.36 --> 3187.56] this question this week, -[3187.56 --> 3188.88] some commentaries -[3188.88 --> 3189.62] I read said that -[3189.62 --> 3190.54] this faith is -[3190.54 --> 3191.62] sound doctrine. -[3192.28 --> 3193.08] That when we want -[3193.08 --> 3193.98] to measure ourselves -[3193.98 --> 3194.74] in accordance with -[3194.74 --> 3195.58] the faith that we've -[3195.58 --> 3196.04] been given, -[3196.26 --> 3197.18] we can open up -[3197.18 --> 3197.52] scripture, -[3197.88 --> 3198.54] and we can hold -[3198.54 --> 3199.56] ourselves to scripture -[3199.56 --> 3200.84] on what the word -[3200.84 --> 3201.24] says. -[3202.32 --> 3203.40] Now other commentaries -[3203.40 --> 3204.18] said that this faith -[3204.18 --> 3205.48] that has been given -[3205.48 --> 3207.04] to us is a feeling -[3207.04 --> 3207.94] of certainty. -[3208.14 --> 3208.98] It's an assurance. -[3209.48 --> 3210.18] It's something that -[3210.18 --> 3211.44] we can be humbly -[3211.44 --> 3212.30] certain for. -[3212.38 --> 3213.10] We can be humbly -[3213.10 --> 3214.70] certain of who we are -[3214.70 --> 3215.82] because of the gifts -[3215.82 --> 3216.52] that God has given -[3216.52 --> 3216.82] us. -[3218.26 --> 3219.52] And I think when I -[3219.52 --> 3220.36] hold up those two -[3220.36 --> 3222.00] options, the answer -[3222.00 --> 3222.60] is yes. -[3224.38 --> 3225.56] Lord's Day 7 of the -[3225.56 --> 3226.50] Heidelberg Catechism, -[3226.60 --> 3227.38] which is, it's a -[3227.38 --> 3228.34] question and answer -[3228.34 --> 3229.60] that works through -[3229.60 --> 3231.06] scripture and answers -[3231.06 --> 3231.54] a lot of these -[3231.54 --> 3232.32] questions for us. -[3232.38 --> 3233.24] It dives into this. -[3233.58 --> 3234.30] Lord's Day 7, -[3234.38 --> 3234.88] question and answer -[3234.88 --> 3235.72] 20 says this. -[3236.14 --> 3237.18] What is true faith? -[3237.84 --> 3238.92] True faith is not -[3238.92 --> 3240.34] only a sure knowledge -[3240.34 --> 3241.60] by which I hold as -[3241.60 --> 3243.38] true, that all God -[3243.38 --> 3244.64] has revealed to us -[3244.64 --> 3245.28] in scripture. -[3246.24 --> 3247.42] It is also a -[3247.42 --> 3248.30] wholehearted trust -[3248.30 --> 3249.56] which the Holy Spirit -[3249.56 --> 3250.70] creates in me by the -[3250.70 --> 3252.08] gospel that God has -[3252.08 --> 3253.10] freely granted, not -[3253.10 --> 3254.16] only to others, but -[3254.16 --> 3255.76] to me also, forgiveness -[3255.76 --> 3256.82] of sins, eternal -[3256.82 --> 3257.68] righteousness, and -[3257.68 --> 3258.10] salvation. -[3259.68 --> 3261.10] Faith is both a sure -[3261.10 --> 3261.96] knowledge that God -[3261.96 --> 3262.82] has revealed himself -[3262.82 --> 3263.64] as truth in -[3263.64 --> 3265.60] scriptures and a -[3265.60 --> 3267.24] wholehearted trust, a -[3267.24 --> 3268.36] deep-rooted assurance -[3268.36 --> 3269.50] that we are loved, -[3269.88 --> 3270.80] saved, and sent out -[3270.80 --> 3271.22] by God. -[3273.38 --> 3274.80] So as we stop -[3274.80 --> 3275.96] conforming to the -[3275.96 --> 3276.82] patterns of this -[3276.82 --> 3278.02] world, and as we -[3278.02 --> 3279.14] now live out our -[3279.14 --> 3280.08] lives with renewed -[3280.08 --> 3282.72] minds, we humble -[3282.72 --> 3284.90] ourselves because we -[3284.90 --> 3285.44] have been given -[3285.44 --> 3285.92] faith. -[3286.76 --> 3288.26] Faith that God has -[3288.26 --> 3289.06] given a sound -[3289.06 --> 3290.20] doctrine in his word -[3290.20 --> 3290.98] in which we can learn -[3290.98 --> 3292.10] about him and his -[3292.10 --> 3293.34] salvation work in us. -[3294.04 --> 3294.82] Faith that grants us -[3294.82 --> 3296.10] a deep-rooted assurance -[3296.10 --> 3297.10] that we are saved -[3297.10 --> 3298.18] because of him, and -[3298.18 --> 3300.04] faith that he is who -[3300.04 --> 3302.14] he says he is, so we -[3302.14 --> 3303.44] are who he says we -[3303.44 --> 3303.82] are. -[3306.26 --> 3307.26] Which then leads us -[3307.26 --> 3308.14] to the next question, -[3308.26 --> 3308.80] who are we? -[3310.12 --> 3311.16] What does that look -[3311.16 --> 3311.48] like? -[3313.70 --> 3314.84] Well, if verse 3 was -[3314.84 --> 3316.16] about humility in our -[3316.16 --> 3317.04] lives and the working -[3317.04 --> 3317.98] of that out, then -[3317.98 --> 3319.38] verses 4 through 8 of -[3319.38 --> 3320.48] our text talk about -[3320.48 --> 3321.70] how we are to live -[3321.70 --> 3322.90] out that humble faith -[3322.90 --> 3323.84] in the world around -[3323.84 --> 3324.24] us. -[3324.68 --> 3326.84] In our humility, we -[3326.84 --> 3327.86] are to use the gifts -[3327.86 --> 3329.52] God has given us to -[3329.52 --> 3331.42] serve and bless the -[3331.42 --> 3331.76] church. -[3332.36 --> 3333.14] And that is the next -[3333.14 --> 3333.92] course of action. -[3334.02 --> 3335.22] And again, like I said -[3335.22 --> 3336.12] off the top, this isn't -[3336.12 --> 3337.30] like an option thing. -[3337.92 --> 3340.04] This isn't me or Paul -[3340.04 --> 3340.96] encouraging us, being -[3340.96 --> 3342.22] like, hey, try that -[3342.22 --> 3342.44] out. -[3342.58 --> 3343.24] That's what that would -[3343.24 --> 3343.48] lead to. -[3343.58 --> 3344.92] Paul is saying, if we -[3344.92 --> 3345.96] submit to God, if we -[3345.96 --> 3347.06] give God our everything, -[3347.46 --> 3348.90] if we stop conforming to -[3348.90 --> 3350.22] the world around us, we -[3350.22 --> 3351.94] gain a renewed mind -[3351.94 --> 3352.98] where we give our -[3352.98 --> 3354.06] everything to God. -[3354.24 --> 3357.14] And as we do that, we -[3357.14 --> 3357.96] become humble. -[3357.96 --> 3359.98] And we start serving -[3359.98 --> 3360.64] the body. -[3360.76 --> 3361.92] We start serving the -[3361.92 --> 3363.04] church with the gifts -[3363.04 --> 3364.08] that we have, not out -[3364.08 --> 3366.64] of duty, but because -[3366.64 --> 3367.78] that's all we can do. -[3370.84 --> 3373.78] Now, of course, the only -[3373.78 --> 3375.62] way to give of ourselves -[3375.62 --> 3378.06] to the church is to be a -[3378.06 --> 3379.00] part of the church. -[3380.00 --> 3381.38] You cannot give yourself -[3381.38 --> 3382.34] to the church if you are -[3382.34 --> 3383.90] not a part of the body of -[3383.90 --> 3385.00] believers that is the -[3385.00 --> 3385.28] church. -[3385.28 --> 3385.32] church. -[3385.76 --> 3386.66] And while many of you -[3386.66 --> 3387.56] sitting here right now -[3387.56 --> 3388.50] are probably thinking, -[3389.00 --> 3389.86] yeah, I'm here today. -[3389.96 --> 3390.22] Check. -[3390.44 --> 3391.06] Like, we're good. -[3391.38 --> 3392.94] I cannot help but believe -[3392.94 --> 3394.16] that there is someone -[3394.16 --> 3395.16] out there right now who -[3395.16 --> 3396.04] needs to hear this. -[3396.36 --> 3397.30] Perhaps in this room, -[3397.40 --> 3398.78] perhaps online right now. -[3399.42 --> 3401.46] And I know sure well that -[3401.46 --> 3402.40] there are people in all -[3402.40 --> 3403.78] of our lives that we -[3403.78 --> 3404.74] know need to hear this. -[3404.92 --> 3406.12] So let's listen to Paul's -[3406.12 --> 3407.30] inspired words here. -[3408.54 --> 3410.24] Our passage in Romans 12 -[3410.24 --> 3411.74] here lists a bunch of -[3411.74 --> 3412.04] gifts. -[3412.54 --> 3413.50] Seven to be exact. -[3413.50 --> 3414.68] They are prophesying, -[3415.12 --> 3416.36] serving, teaching, -[3416.90 --> 3418.16] encouraging, giving, -[3418.94 --> 3420.04] leading, and showing -[3420.04 --> 3420.36] mercy. -[3421.28 --> 3422.10] Now, this is important. -[3422.50 --> 3423.64] We are not going to -[3423.64 --> 3424.64] dissect those seven -[3424.64 --> 3425.86] gifts this morning -[3425.86 --> 3427.60] because this list of -[3427.60 --> 3428.44] gifts is not an -[3428.44 --> 3429.20] exhaustive one. -[3429.40 --> 3430.32] This is not all of the -[3430.32 --> 3431.40] gifts that God gives us. -[3431.66 --> 3432.90] There are lists throughout -[3432.90 --> 3434.40] the New Testament from -[3434.40 --> 3435.40] Paul as well as other -[3435.40 --> 3436.56] writers that tell us -[3436.56 --> 3436.72] this. -[3436.78 --> 3437.52] In 1 Corinthians -[3437.52 --> 3438.80] chapter 12, Paul -[3438.80 --> 3439.72] actually gives us a list -[3439.72 --> 3441.32] of 13 more gifts. -[3441.32 --> 3442.42] And only two of them -[3442.42 --> 3443.24] are duplicates from -[3443.24 --> 3444.14] this morning's text. -[3444.54 --> 3445.14] And in Ephesians -[3445.14 --> 3446.16] chapter 4, there's another -[3446.16 --> 3447.56] list of five where there's -[3447.56 --> 3448.52] only three duplicates. -[3448.60 --> 3449.64] And then there's many -[3449.64 --> 3450.60] other spots in the New -[3450.60 --> 3451.60] Testament that list -[3451.60 --> 3453.50] specific gifts that the -[3453.50 --> 3454.52] Holy Spirit grants to -[3454.52 --> 3456.84] those who believe. -[3457.10 --> 3457.98] And the point is this. -[3458.94 --> 3459.74] While we could go into -[3459.74 --> 3460.90] detail about these gifts, -[3461.28 --> 3462.62] the point of the passage -[3462.62 --> 3464.10] is not to exhaust these -[3464.10 --> 3465.52] specific ones necessarily, -[3465.92 --> 3467.88] but to use this list of -[3467.88 --> 3470.06] seven gifts as an example -[3470.06 --> 3471.66] of how we are called to -[3471.66 --> 3473.10] use our gifts in the -[3473.10 --> 3474.66] world, which is, as we've -[3474.66 --> 3476.26] been saying, with humility -[3476.26 --> 3478.04] and for the church. -[3480.22 --> 3481.48] Scripture beyond this -[3481.48 --> 3482.84] passage tells us this as -[3482.84 --> 3483.04] well. -[3483.42 --> 3484.74] If you want to compare -[3484.74 --> 3486.20] verses 4 to 8 from our -[3486.20 --> 3487.52] text with the 1 Corinthians -[3487.52 --> 3489.10] chapter 12 text, you'll -[3489.10 --> 3490.12] see some very obvious -[3490.12 --> 3490.62] similarities. -[3491.08 --> 3492.66] First, Paul uses the same -[3492.66 --> 3494.26] analogy of the body. -[3494.60 --> 3496.14] In verses 4 to 5 of our -[3496.14 --> 3497.78] text today, Paul says this. -[3497.78 --> 3499.50] He says, for each of us has -[3499.50 --> 3500.98] one body with many members, -[3501.38 --> 3502.38] and these members do not -[3502.38 --> 3503.52] all have the same function. -[3503.94 --> 3505.78] So in Christ we, though -[3505.78 --> 3507.90] many, form one body, and -[3507.90 --> 3509.16] each member belongs to all -[3509.16 --> 3509.60] the others. -[3510.42 --> 3511.90] In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul -[3511.90 --> 3513.24] says much the same thing. -[3514.00 --> 3515.84] He says, just as a body, -[3516.14 --> 3517.74] though one has many parts, -[3518.42 --> 3520.14] but all its many parts form -[3520.14 --> 3520.66] one body. -[3520.74 --> 3521.62] So it is with Christ. -[3521.74 --> 3523.84] The body is not made up of -[3523.84 --> 3525.30] one part, but of many. -[3525.64 --> 3526.96] And then in that passage in -[3526.96 --> 3528.04] Corinthians, Paul goes on to -[3528.04 --> 3529.22] say how silly it would be -[3529.22 --> 3531.04] for a foot or an ear to say -[3531.04 --> 3531.88] that they were less a part -[3531.88 --> 3532.90] of the body because they -[3532.90 --> 3534.12] are not a hand or an eye. -[3534.54 --> 3535.34] But you get the point. -[3535.98 --> 3538.22] In both passages, Paul is -[3538.22 --> 3539.38] pointing out that although -[3539.38 --> 3540.72] we are all gifted in -[3540.72 --> 3542.38] different ways, we are all -[3542.38 --> 3544.16] part of the body of Christ. -[3545.30 --> 3548.24] With Christ as the head, we -[3548.24 --> 3549.12] make up the body. -[3549.26 --> 3550.30] We are the church. -[3550.30 --> 3553.44] Now secondly, comparing those -[3553.44 --> 3555.24] two passages, Paul describes -[3555.24 --> 3557.24] how love for one another -[3557.24 --> 3558.88] plays a massive role in all -[3558.88 --> 3559.26] of this. -[3559.72 --> 3561.00] Next week, Pastor Chris is -[3561.00 --> 3562.62] going to dig into Romans 12, -[3562.76 --> 3564.80] 9 to 21, where Paul talks -[3564.80 --> 3566.16] extensively about how we are -[3566.16 --> 3566.94] to love all people. -[3567.32 --> 3568.60] That's how this living out the -[3568.60 --> 3569.56] body looks like. -[3570.34 --> 3572.88] In chapter 12 of 1 Corinthians, -[3573.16 --> 3575.42] Paul follows his passage on -[3575.42 --> 3576.58] the body with 1 Corinthians -[3576.58 --> 3578.52] chapter 13, which is one of -[3578.52 --> 3579.90] the most famous passages on -[3579.90 --> 3581.04] love that exists in the -[3581.04 --> 3582.58] entire Bible. -[3583.22 --> 3583.96] Love is patient. -[3584.10 --> 3584.70] Love is kind. -[3584.78 --> 3585.52] It does not envy. -[3585.64 --> 3586.44] It does not boast. -[3586.78 --> 3587.72] Many of you know this -[3587.72 --> 3588.06] passage. -[3588.50 --> 3589.72] Many non-Christians know -[3589.72 --> 3590.24] this passage. -[3590.40 --> 3591.88] This is like infamously -[3591.88 --> 3594.96] wedding, infamously famous -[3594.96 --> 3596.16] at weddings of all shapes -[3596.16 --> 3596.66] and sizes. -[3597.48 --> 3600.02] All of this to say, in both -[3600.02 --> 3601.18] texts, this is the point. -[3602.62 --> 3606.22] In both texts, we see how -[3606.22 --> 3608.66] corporate Christianity is. -[3610.32 --> 3611.24] Now, sure, our faith is -[3611.24 --> 3613.14] personal, but it is not -[3613.14 --> 3614.14] individualistic. -[3615.40 --> 3617.36] Paul is urging those who -[3617.36 --> 3619.52] believe that we need to be -[3619.52 --> 3620.94] operating in community. -[3621.50 --> 3623.08] We need to be a part of the -[3623.08 --> 3624.80] body of Christ, not separate -[3624.80 --> 3625.58] from the church. -[3625.94 --> 3628.32] Using our gifts must happen -[3628.32 --> 3629.22] within the church. -[3629.22 --> 3633.14] This quote from Kevin DeYoung, -[3633.20 --> 3633.86] I think it's awesome. -[3633.94 --> 3635.04] It's from his book titled -[3635.04 --> 3636.54] The Hole in Our Holiness, and -[3636.54 --> 3637.98] it sums it up perfectly and -[3637.98 --> 3638.78] quite pointedly. -[3638.94 --> 3639.52] It says this, -[3640.22 --> 3643.00] We cannot live as Christians -[3643.00 --> 3644.06] without the church. -[3644.78 --> 3647.42] We cannot love Christ and not -[3647.42 --> 3648.06] love the church. -[3648.56 --> 3651.50] We cannot embrace Christ and -[3651.50 --> 3653.76] not embrace those for whom -[3653.76 --> 3654.52] Christ died. -[3654.52 --> 3658.02] We cannot trust Christ for -[3658.02 --> 3660.74] salvation and then refuse to -[3660.74 --> 3662.14] trust those whom Christ has -[3662.14 --> 3664.08] given spiritual oversight. -[3664.98 --> 3667.58] We cannot love Christ and -[3667.58 --> 3669.66] ignore the gifts of Christ. -[3669.78 --> 3671.58] We cannot be devoted to Christ -[3671.58 --> 3673.52] but be detached from Christ's -[3673.52 --> 3673.80] bride. -[3675.08 --> 3677.80] To divorce our love for Christ -[3677.80 --> 3680.40] from our love for the church is -[3680.40 --> 3682.76] to decapitate the head from the -[3682.76 --> 3685.44] body, a decorpsified Christ. -[3689.22 --> 3690.62] We are the body. -[3690.82 --> 3693.44] We are to be edified by each -[3693.44 --> 3693.62] other. -[3693.72 --> 3695.52] Edified simply means improved, -[3695.68 --> 3697.02] informed, built up, encouraged. -[3697.72 --> 3699.82] We need to be part of a local -[3699.82 --> 3701.82] church to be edified by the -[3701.82 --> 3702.76] gifts of others. -[3703.84 --> 3705.74] Or more directly and more -[3705.74 --> 3708.94] specifically, you need to be part -[3708.94 --> 3711.66] of a local church because others -[3711.66 --> 3713.68] need to be edified by your -[3713.68 --> 3714.14] gifts. -[3716.16 --> 3717.86] Gifts are not given to us by -[3717.86 --> 3719.32] God for our own enjoyment or -[3719.32 --> 3721.96] for our own self-exaltation or -[3721.96 --> 3723.70] to build up our own brands or -[3723.70 --> 3724.28] platforms. -[3724.46 --> 3726.62] God has given us these gifts, be -[3726.62 --> 3728.84] it teaching or giving or -[3728.84 --> 3730.50] encouragement or showing mercy or -[3730.50 --> 3731.74] one of the dozens of other -[3731.74 --> 3733.52] gifts he lists in his word. -[3733.80 --> 3734.94] He gives them for one reason. -[3736.24 --> 3739.08] Because Christ loves the church -[3739.08 --> 3741.36] church and we are to use our -[3741.36 --> 3743.28] gifts for the good of our -[3743.28 --> 3745.60] brothers and sisters in Christ. -[3745.60 --> 3751.36] Now God gives us all gifts. -[3752.66 --> 3754.02] And some of you here sitting -[3754.02 --> 3756.56] today know very well what gifts -[3756.56 --> 3758.08] God has given you, what gifts you -[3758.08 --> 3758.38] possess. -[3759.02 --> 3760.48] And some of you are using your -[3760.48 --> 3761.92] gifts so well in this community -[3761.92 --> 3763.88] and we thank you for that. -[3764.56 --> 3765.86] Others of you know the gifts you -[3765.86 --> 3767.02] have and you need to be encouraged -[3767.02 --> 3768.72] to go and give of those gifts to -[3768.72 --> 3769.20] this community. -[3769.30 --> 3770.28] So please do that. -[3771.64 --> 3773.24] Others of you might be struggling to -[3773.24 --> 3774.76] figure out what your gifts actually -[3774.76 --> 3775.10] are. -[3776.44 --> 3777.98] And if that's true, can I please -[3777.98 --> 3779.92] just encourage you, go talk to -[3779.92 --> 3780.28] someone. -[3780.92 --> 3782.00] Someone who knows you well. -[3782.12 --> 3783.22] Talk to a friend. -[3783.54 --> 3785.10] Talk to a spiritual mentor, a -[3785.10 --> 3786.32] pastor, a parent, an elder. -[3786.62 --> 3788.02] Talk to someone who knows you. -[3788.76 --> 3789.46] They can help. -[3789.56 --> 3790.52] They know your gifts. -[3791.30 --> 3792.94] They will see what your role can -[3792.94 --> 3794.16] be in the body of Christ. -[3796.08 --> 3797.48] We've all been given gifts. -[3797.48 --> 3799.84] Every one of us because of -[3799.84 --> 3800.20] Christ. -[3801.20 --> 3802.64] None of us have earned these -[3802.64 --> 3802.96] gifts. -[3802.96 --> 3805.46] We have not received them because -[3805.46 --> 3806.34] we deserve them. -[3808.38 --> 3810.04] We've received them because God -[3810.04 --> 3811.86] drew us to faith by his grace. -[3812.78 --> 3814.40] And now we are called to give of -[3814.40 --> 3815.70] those gifts back to the church. -[3816.62 --> 3821.14] Remember, Jesus came to this earth -[3821.14 --> 3823.36] and he lived the life that you and -[3823.36 --> 3824.92] I have been called to live and yet -[3824.92 --> 3827.00] he died a death that you and I -[3827.00 --> 3827.98] deserve to die. -[3828.42 --> 3830.34] He then, three days later, rose from -[3830.34 --> 3832.70] the dead, revealed himself to many -[3832.70 --> 3834.62] people and then rose up to heaven -[3834.62 --> 3836.14] where now he sits at the right hand -[3836.14 --> 3837.16] of God the Father Almighty. -[3837.92 --> 3840.96] The gifts he gives us are meant to -[3840.96 --> 3843.28] be used for the betterment of the -[3843.28 --> 3844.98] church, to help the church, to grow -[3844.98 --> 3848.22] the church, to spread the gospel -[3848.22 --> 3851.10] truth of Jesus' life, death, and -[3851.10 --> 3851.72] resurrection. -[3851.72 --> 3857.66] When we use our gifts to love and -[3857.66 --> 3860.78] serve the body, we love what Jesus -[3860.78 --> 3863.68] loves, which is the body of Christ. -[3864.52 --> 3865.98] So be a part of the church and -[3865.98 --> 3868.00] humbly give yourself to it. -[3868.00 --> 3872.28] Pastor Chris said a few weeks back -[3872.28 --> 3873.50] that instead of saying, I don't get -[3873.50 --> 3875.16] anything out of church, we should be -[3875.16 --> 3877.60] asking, what can I give to God today -[3877.60 --> 3878.82] as I enter this place? -[3879.06 --> 3880.22] And that is so important. -[3880.34 --> 3882.78] That frames what our posture should be -[3882.78 --> 3884.52] like as we enter this place each and -[3884.52 --> 3884.98] every week. -[3886.22 --> 3888.28] But Paul is adding another layer here. -[3889.54 --> 3891.16] And he's saying, instead of asking, -[3891.48 --> 3892.82] what do I get from church? -[3894.06 --> 3896.22] We need to be asking, what am I giving -[3896.22 --> 3899.26] to church in order to serve the body? -[3901.16 --> 3902.98] And so those are the questions to ask -[3902.98 --> 3903.40] you today. -[3905.24 --> 3906.64] Am I a part of the body? -[3908.36 --> 3910.60] How can I best serve it more? -[3913.16 --> 3915.02] In conclusion today, I want to share a -[3915.02 --> 3915.70] little bit of story. -[3915.80 --> 3917.48] My dad actually sent me a video this -[3917.48 --> 3919.14] week with no idea that I was preaching, -[3919.36 --> 3921.08] let alone what I was preaching on. -[3921.50 --> 3924.50] But the story in this video fits this -[3924.50 --> 3926.14] text so well and fits what Paul -[3926.14 --> 3926.84] is saying here. -[3926.98 --> 3928.78] It's a testimony from a man named -[3928.78 --> 3930.20] Stephen Foster. -[3930.88 --> 3932.34] And honestly, it makes way more sense -[3932.34 --> 3933.90] for him to tell his story than for me. -[3934.00 --> 3935.24] So it's going to be on the screen in -[3935.24 --> 3935.82] just a second. -[3936.22 --> 3938.34] Please watch this two-minute testimony. -[3940.40 --> 3942.60] If I'm honest, I never really liked the -[3942.60 --> 3942.92] church. -[3943.08 --> 3945.12] I didn't even really like Christians that -[3945.12 --> 3945.42] much. -[3945.50 --> 3946.76] I used to think of it like a package -[3946.76 --> 3947.10] deal. -[3947.58 --> 3950.34] Like, you get Jesus, and so you get the -[3950.34 --> 3951.50] church and Christians thrown. -[3951.58 --> 3952.54] It's just part of the package. -[3952.92 --> 3954.52] And there are some bits you like Jesus, -[3954.52 --> 3955.98] some bits you don't like so much. -[3956.06 --> 3957.32] It's like the church and Christians. -[3957.62 --> 3959.00] I used to find that a bit annoying. -[3959.14 --> 3960.18] But I turned up to the church and -[3960.18 --> 3960.80] go through it. -[3961.10 --> 3962.46] I don't really enjoy going to the -[3962.46 --> 3962.62] church. -[3962.72 --> 3965.52] And then one day, I was at the back of -[3965.52 --> 3968.06] our church in East London, and someone -[3968.06 --> 3972.44] said to me, oh, we need help to run the -[3972.44 --> 3973.04] coffee team. -[3973.30 --> 3975.44] Last night, I was like working like 70, -[3975.52 --> 3976.12] 80 hour a week. -[3976.22 --> 3976.82] I'm like, what? -[3976.82 --> 3978.48] And they were like, yeah, Steve, we -[3978.48 --> 3980.32] really enjoy how running the coffee -[3980.32 --> 3981.40] team on a Sunday. -[3981.62 --> 3982.88] And I was like, I'm a pastor. -[3983.08 --> 3983.92] I'm not a barista. -[3984.10 --> 3984.96] Like, I've got a job. -[3985.04 --> 3986.04] I don't even know a job to run the -[3986.04 --> 3986.38] coffee team. -[3986.68 --> 3988.16] I just, you know, sometimes you just -[3988.16 --> 3989.18] can't even think of what to say. -[3989.26 --> 3990.92] So I was like, okay, I'll do it. -[3990.96 --> 3991.32] I'll do it. -[3991.36 --> 3991.58] Okay. -[3991.94 --> 3993.40] And I said, why did I do that? -[3993.42 --> 3995.20] So I turn up next week, like, you -[3995.20 --> 3996.88] know, trying to get the cups and -[3996.88 --> 3998.12] everything, get the coffee right. -[3998.24 --> 4000.18] As I handed these cups to people, -[4000.54 --> 4003.14] something really changed in me. -[4003.14 --> 4005.34] I found myself as I handed coffee -[4005.34 --> 4007.60] to these people, growing in love -[4007.60 --> 4007.98] for them. -[4008.10 --> 4008.86] I was like, these people are -[4008.86 --> 4009.42] amazing. -[4010.32 --> 4011.52] Like, this is this extraordinarily -[4011.52 --> 4012.78] diverse community. -[4013.54 --> 4015.00] It's been gathered from across the -[4015.00 --> 4017.30] area, probably not another place -[4017.30 --> 4019.42] that looks as diverse and -[4019.42 --> 4020.38] integrated as this. -[4020.52 --> 4021.28] This is a miracle. -[4021.58 --> 4023.16] And then even people I found a -[4023.16 --> 4024.46] little bit more frustrating and -[4024.46 --> 4026.42] complicated, as I handed them their -[4026.42 --> 4027.78] coffee, I kind of grew in love -[4027.78 --> 4028.14] for them. -[4028.24 --> 4029.94] And I kind of basically fell in love -[4029.94 --> 4031.10] with the church. -[4031.58 --> 4032.62] And then I kind of went back to the -[4032.62 --> 4033.72] person who'd asked me to, I said, -[4033.90 --> 4034.96] we need a new coffee machine. -[4035.26 --> 4036.20] We need better beans. -[4036.52 --> 4037.48] We need better mugs. -[4037.62 --> 4039.02] Like, come on, these are amazing -[4039.02 --> 4039.30] people. -[4039.40 --> 4040.78] I want this to be the best coffee -[4040.78 --> 4041.40] that they get. -[4041.54 --> 4042.88] You know, they're coming to church -[4042.88 --> 4043.72] on a Sunday morning. -[4043.80 --> 4044.98] I got more and more passionate. -[4045.12 --> 4046.50] I started to build a team to serve -[4046.50 --> 4047.60] coffee on a Sunday morning. -[4047.72 --> 4048.44] I was sometimes sick. -[4048.84 --> 4050.56] Making coffee changed my life -[4050.56 --> 4052.66] because I fell in love with the -[4052.66 --> 4053.60] church of Jesus Christ. -[4053.72 --> 4055.80] I didn't realize why it was -[4055.80 --> 4056.02] special. -[4056.10 --> 4057.86] I didn't realize why it mattered. -[4059.00 --> 4061.10] And as I made coffee for people, -[4061.10 --> 4063.10] I suddenly realized, oh, the church -[4063.10 --> 4065.16] is like the bride of Jesus Christ. -[4065.22 --> 4067.10] It's like the thing he gave himself -[4067.10 --> 4067.54] for. -[4068.12 --> 4071.84] Like, the church is God's plan for the -[4071.84 --> 4072.90] salvation of the world. -[4073.28 --> 4074.34] There's no plan B. -[4074.62 --> 4076.18] And God is going to build his church. -[4076.58 --> 4078.16] And the gates of hell will not prevail -[4078.16 --> 4078.94] against it. -[4079.50 --> 4081.90] So, like, God is putting all his eggs -[4081.90 --> 4083.08] in the church basket. -[4083.08 --> 4086.72] And I realized, over those few weeks, -[4086.90 --> 4088.28] there's a beautiful thing here. -[4088.46 --> 4089.92] Yes, it messes up. -[4090.18 --> 4091.26] Yes, it makes mistakes. -[4091.76 --> 4093.38] You'll never find a perfect church. -[4094.00 --> 4095.26] But it's a beautiful thing. -[4096.22 --> 4098.20] And I thought, that's what I want to -[4098.20 --> 4099.12] spend my life building. -[4099.12 --> 4099.22] Amen. -[4104.56 --> 4107.40] Stephen Foster is actually now a vicar -[4107.40 --> 4110.72] at St. Aldate's Church in Oxford, -[4110.92 --> 4113.56] England, all because he decided to use -[4113.56 --> 4116.22] his gifts and humbly serve his church, -[4116.36 --> 4118.70] even if he started doing so begrudgingly. -[4119.68 --> 4120.70] And so what are your gifts? -[4121.44 --> 4122.58] How are you serving? -[4123.60 --> 4125.90] We can always use coffee volunteers here -[4125.90 --> 4128.16] or more prayer ministry people -[4128.16 --> 4130.76] or people to serve in GEMS or cadets, -[4130.90 --> 4132.32] men's ministry, coffee break, -[4132.60 --> 4134.32] connect teams, mission teams, -[4134.70 --> 4137.02] IT team, social media crew. -[4137.12 --> 4138.06] I was saying team a lot. -[4138.32 --> 4139.74] There's a running of the soundboard -[4139.74 --> 4141.30] or the pro presenter in the back. -[4141.62 --> 4142.54] There's a kitchen group, -[4142.62 --> 4143.54] a refugee committee. -[4143.76 --> 4144.62] There's a board of stewards -[4144.62 --> 4145.68] who helps maintain the grounds. -[4145.76 --> 4146.32] I could go on. -[4149.26 --> 4153.60] Are you a part of the body of Christ? -[4155.14 --> 4157.90] How can you best serve the body -[4157.90 --> 4159.80] with the gifts God has given you? -[4161.20 --> 4164.30] Can we do so humbly because of who Jesus is? -[4165.80 --> 4167.58] If you do, if we do, -[4168.30 --> 4172.58] you may just come to love Jesus and his body even more. -[4172.64 --> 4175.26] And maybe you'll even become a vicar. -[4175.26 --> 4177.08] Let's pray. -[4178.92 --> 4180.18] Father in heaven, -[4180.28 --> 4182.20] we thank you for this text. -[4182.38 --> 4184.82] We thank you that you have lived -[4184.82 --> 4188.08] the perfect life that none of us can live -[4188.08 --> 4190.08] and that you died a death that we all deserve. -[4190.76 --> 4192.84] And by grace, you rose again three days later, -[4192.94 --> 4194.16] giving grace to all of us, -[4194.28 --> 4196.72] forgiveness of sins and life eternal, God. -[4196.72 --> 4202.54] And there is nothing that we did to deserve that. -[4204.08 --> 4206.72] May we live out this life -[4206.72 --> 4209.36] in that humble reality. -[4210.24 --> 4213.00] May we give of ourselves to the church, -[4213.50 --> 4217.72] not because we can, -[4218.36 --> 4219.32] but because you did. -[4219.32 --> 4224.52] And may we serve our brothers and sisters in Christ. -[4224.64 --> 4226.34] May we grow this community. -[4226.48 --> 4228.20] May we grow the church of Christ -[4228.20 --> 4230.28] because you have given us these gifts. -[4230.42 --> 4233.74] May we go out and serve our community well -[4233.74 --> 4237.14] because that is what we are to do -[4237.14 --> 4238.70] with a renewed mind -[4238.70 --> 4241.04] and a knowledge of the grace and mercy -[4241.04 --> 4243.04] that is found in our salvation because of you. -[4243.74 --> 4245.40] God, we thank you for these gifts. -[4245.40 --> 4248.64] May we go and use them for your glory. -[4249.00 --> 4250.20] In your name, amen. -[4275.40 --> 4284.88] O Lord, hear. -[4284.88 --> 4286.96] O Lord, hear. -[4286.96 --> 4293.38] O Lord, forgive us. -[4293.96 --> 4299.80] We have lost the awe of you. -[4299.80 --> 4303.36] Have mercy. -[4303.36 --> 4303.42] Have mercy. -[4303.42 --> 4305.42] Have mercy. -[4305.42 --> 4306.70] Have mercy. -[4308.70 --> 4314.90] O Lord, bless. -[4315.58 --> 4320.70] Our hearts which are divided -[4320.70 --> 4327.64] stir the faith that we once knew. -[4327.64 --> 4331.26] We're thirsty. -[4331.26 --> 4332.26] We're thirsty. -[4332.26 --> 4333.26] We're thirsty. -[4333.26 --> 4335.26] We're thirsty. -[4337.26 --> 4341.26] O Lord, restore. -[4343.76 --> 4350.66] The church that is your name. -[4350.66 --> 4356.04] O Spirit, send. -[4356.04 --> 4386.02] O Lord, hear. -[4386.02 --> 4393.02] O Lord, forgive us. -[4393.02 --> 4399.64] We have lost the awe of you. -[4399.64 --> 4402.64] Have mercy. -[4402.64 --> 4406.64] Have mercy. -[4406.64 --> 4407.64] We have mercy. -[4407.64 --> 4413.64] O Lord, bless. -[4413.64 --> 4420.40] Our hearts which are divided -[4420.40 --> 4427.64] stir the faith that we once knew. -[4427.64 --> 4429.64] We're thirsty. -[4429.64 --> 4430.64] We're thirsty. -[4430.64 --> 4431.46] We're thirsty. -[4434.64 --> 4434.88] We're thirsty. -[4436.64 --> 4442.64] No Fighting. -[4443.08 --> 4444.08] We're thirsty. -[4444.08 --> 4444.70] We're thirsty. -[4444.70 --> 4446.86] We're thirsty. -[4446.86 --> 4449.86] your name -[4449.86 --> 4451.86] Oh -[4451.86 --> 4454.08] Spirit -[4454.08 --> 4455.86] send -[4456.98 --> 4459.86] a revival -[4459.86 --> 4461.96] to this -[4461.96 --> 4463.86] nation -[4463.86 --> 4465.86] breathe -[4465.86 --> 4467.86] on us -[4468.62 --> 4469.86] again -[4469.86 --> 4472.86] breathe -[4472.86 --> 4475.78] on us -[4475.78 --> 4481.78] O Lord -[4482.50 --> 4483.78] restore -[4483.78 --> 4487.78] the church -[4488.52 --> 4489.92] that bears -[4489.92 --> 4491.78] your name -[4493.30 --> 4495.78] O -[4495.78 --> 4497.42] Spirit -[4497.42 --> 4499.78] send -[4500.34 --> 4501.78] a revival -[4503.36 --> 4504.78] to this -[4504.78 --> 4506.78] nation -[4506.78 --> 4508.78] breathe -[4508.78 --> 4510.78] on us -[4510.78 --> 4512.78] again -[4512.78 --> 4514.78] breathe -[4514.78 --> 4516.78] on us -[4516.78 --> 4518.78] again -[4518.78 --> 4520.78] breathe on us -[4520.78 --> 4522.78] again -[4522.78 --> 4540.78] if you are in need of prayer this morning there will be prayer prayer person available here at the front and I believe in the back they'll be having a yellow name tag so please approach them if you are needing prayer or honestly approach anybody in this church we'd be happy to pray for you. -[4540.78 --> 4558.78] Also remember we have a celebratory cake in the back so make sure to shake John and Helen's hand give them a hug congratulate them on their anniversary and as we go from this place let's remember to live our lives humbly because of who Christ is and let's remember to serve the body of Christ with the gifts that he has given us. -[4558.78 --> 4579.78] Please receive the parting blessing from numbers chapter 6 the Lord bless you and keep you the Lord make his face shine upon you and be present and be gracious to you the Lord turn his face toward you and give you his peace and all God's people said. -[4579.78 --> 4580.78] Amen. -[4580.78 --> 4581.78] Amen. -[4581.78 --> 4583.78] Amen. -[4583.78 --> 4604.70] What is our hope in life and death? -[4604.70 --> 4609.06] Christ alone, Christ alone -[4609.06 --> 4613.20] What is our only confidence? -[4614.66 --> 4618.70] That our souls to Him belong -[4618.70 --> 4623.60] Who holds our days within His hand? -[4624.00 --> 4627.70] What comes apart from His command? -[4627.70 --> 4632.70] And what will keep us to the end? -[4633.70 --> 4638.88] The love of Christ in which we stand -[4638.88 --> 4645.30] Oh, sing hallelujah -[4645.30 --> 4650.16] Our hope springs eternal -[4650.16 --> 4654.96] Oh, sing hallelujah -[4654.96 --> 4659.00] Now and ever we confess -[4659.00 --> 4662.88] Christ our hope in life and death -[4662.88 --> 4674.48] What truth can calm the troubled soul? -[4674.48 --> 4679.26] God is good, God is good -[4679.26 --> 4683.92] Where is His grace and goodness known? -[4683.92 --> 4688.84] Give our great Redeemer's love -[4688.84 --> 4693.76] Who holds our faith where fears arise -[4693.76 --> 4698.66] Who stands above the storm in trial? -[4698.66 --> 4703.22] Who sends the waves that bring us die -[4703.22 --> 4709.64] Unto the shore, the rock of Christ -[4709.64 --> 4714.54] Oh, sing hallelujah -[4714.54 --> 4719.18] Our hope springs eternal -[4719.18 --> 4723.10] Oh, sing hallelujah -[4723.10 --> 4728.02] Now and ever we confess -[4728.02 --> 4730.94] Christ our hope in life and death -[4730.94 --> 4731.94] Christ our hope in life and death -[4731.94 --> 4734.86] Christ our hope in life and death -[4734.86 --> 4736.86] Christ our hope in life and death -[4736.86 --> 4766.84] Christ our hope in life and death -[4766.86 --> 4768.18] Christ our hope in life and death -[4768.18 --> 4768.36] Christ our hope in joy -[4768.36 --> 4772.24] And we will feast in endless joy -[4772.24 --> 4777.82] When Christ in our hearts forevermore -[4777.82 --> 4783.86] Oh, sing hallelujah -[4783.86 --> 4788.68] Our hope springs eternal -[4788.68 --> 4800.90] Oh, sing hallelujah, now and ever we confess, Christ our hope in life and life. -[4800.90 --> 4809.78] Oh, sing hallelujah, our hope's praise eternal. -[4809.78 --> 4830.04] Oh, sing hallelujah, now and ever we confess, Christ our hope in life and life. -[4839.78 --> 4869.76] Oh, sing hallelujah, now and ever we confess, Christ our hope in life and life. -[4869.78 --> 4899.76] Oh, sing hallelujah, now and ever we confess, Christ our hope in life and life. -[4900.62 --> 4929.76] O sing hallelujah, now and ever we confess, Christ our hope in life andí. -[4929.76 --> 4959.74] Thank you. -[4959.76 --> 4989.74] Thank you. -[4989.76 --> 5019.74] Thank you. -[5019.76 --> 5021.76] Thank you. -[5049.76 --> 5079.74] Thank you. -[5079.76 --> 5109.74] Thank you. -[5109.76 --> 5139.74] Thank you. -[5139.76 --> 5169.74] Thank you. -[5169.76 --> 5171.76] Thank you. -[5199.76 --> 5201.76] Thank you. -[5229.76 --> 5231.76] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, February 18, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, February 18, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 272d827911ab19d3ad64dcf7cef5071d1e0e3334..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, February 18, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,108 +0,0 @@ -• Troubles and wars -• Asking to raise voice against storm clouds -• Surrender and thunder -• Questioning what the lightning asks -• Leaving a channel for a torrent -• Sprouting forests in deserts -• Filling wilderness with provisions -• Hunting prey for young lions -• Losing course of all lions -• Busyness of the world -• Trusting one's will -• Smoking unknown substances -• Wonder at God's power -• Inaction and sitting still -• Comparing creatures' lives -• Perspective on the present -• Worshiping God as the Lion and Lamb -• The Lord Almighty's power -• Looking for a permanent volunteer to cover two Thursdays per month during the school year -• Upcoming events: Mexico dinner on March 2nd, Cadet Sunday on February 25th, Coldest Night of the Year event on February 24th -• Opportunities to sign up and participate in Coldest Night of the Year event and support those already participating with donations -• Worship service from Psalm 63 -• Lyrics to various worship songs -• Prayers for guidance, love, and hope in God -• Confession of sin and need for forgiveness -• Invitation to quiet hearts in prayer -• Confession of sin -• Assurance of forgiveness through confession -• Worship and praise of Jesus -• Baptism as a sacrament that symbolizes Jesus' life, death, and resurrection -• Explanation of infant baptism in the context of covenant children and God's promise to Abraham -• Covenant privileges and responsibilities for those baptized -• Baptism ceremony for Sadie Brook Muller -• Parents and congregation promise to love, encourage, and support Sadie in her faith journey -• Invitation for all children to come forward and participate -• Explanation of baptism as a picture of Jesus' blood washing away sin -• Daryl Wind presents a gift and certificate to the family -• Congregation prays a blessing over Sadie -• Jesus as Lord and Redeemer -• Diversity in faith -• Prayer for the homeless and those in need -• Worship and praise of God -• Hope and trust in Jesus -• Church business and offerings (specifically for the Gateway of Hope) -• Prayer or worship song is sung by the speaker -• The kids are asked to welcome guests on "Kids Corner" -• Discussion about camping and flashlights, including examples of things that give off light in the dark -• Explanation of why light was being discussed: to relate it to being a light for Jesus -• Introduction to prayer and acknowledgment of fish -• Reference to Psalm 139 and God's knowledge of individuals' lives -• Prayer for Sadie, her family, and local church community -• Request for God's blessing and call on those who have not yet acknowledged it -• Prayers for various groups including teachers, leaders, municipality, and the world at large -• Romans chapter 12 verses 9-21 are discussed -• The importance of sincere love, honor, and devotion to one another is emphasized -• The passage encourages living in harmony, sharing with those in need, and practicing hospitality -• Overcoming evil with good is a central theme -• A personal testimony from the speaker's grandfather being removed from office due to disagreement with church leaders is shared -• Abuse within church contexts -• Author's negative experiences of church at a young age -• Transition from hurtful church experiences to renewed faith in Jesus -• Redefining relationships, including between God and individuals, among people, and with the world -• The relational nature of God (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) and the call to live into that inner Trinitarian union -• Sin as a broken relationship with God and its effects on everything else -• Redemption through union with Christ and being restored to the inner Trinitarian union -• Personal covenantal relationships with God, which are communal in nature -• The role of baptism in marking individuals as children of the covenant and welcoming them into the community of faith -• The transition from Romans 1-11 to Romans 12, which builds upon the reality of being justified and saved through grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone -• Relationships within the body (among one another), including relationships among Christians in the church -• Relationships outside of the body or with the world -• Criticisms of Christianity as being hypocritical -• Preaching love and honor while acting in contradictory ways -• Danger of becoming a Pharisee through hypocrisy -• Acknowledgment of personal hypocrisy despite grace of God -• Importance of authentic, genuine love without hypocrisy -• Example of loving unhypocritically through vulnerability and honesty in relationships -• Dangers of presenting a "mask" or false self to others in Christian communities -• The risk and difficulty of being vulnerable -• The difference between hypocritical love and genuine, unhypocritical love -• The importance of hating what is evil and clinging to what is good -• Real love requires confrontation and speaking truth in relationships -• The distinction between loving unbelieving friends and fellow Christians within the body -• The importance of humility and its relationship to the foundation of Christian living -• Being set on fire by the Spirit, or having a passion for God and others -• Critique of Christians who are often described as stoic and lacking in zeal -• The need for a real relationship with God and the body of Christ -• The futility of pursuing things that bring temporary satisfaction and joy -• The importance of practicing hospitality, which is not considered a gift in Scripture -• Pursuing and being devoted to one another in the body -• The use of multiple Greek words for love (agape, philos, storgoi) and their meanings -• Agape love as a reflection of God's love in Jesus Christ and spilling over through believers to the body -• The concept of brotherly love (philadelphia) and being made into brothers due to agape love -• Adoption into sonship and being co-heirs with Christ -• The church is described as having familial relationships, with members being loved and referred to as brothers and sisters. -• Hospitality in the church is defined as loving strangers into family. -• The Bible uses four metaphors for the church: body, family, bride, and hospitality (love of strangers). -• Christianity redefines relationships between people and God, making them new families through Jesus Christ. -• In interacting with non-Christians, Christians should not expect others to behave Christianly, but rather aim to live a life that reflects their faith in the face of adversity. -• Angry neighbor next door and offering to pray for him -• Relationship changes through faithfulness and loving those who treat us poorly -• Paul quotes Proverbs 25:21-22 and its application in restoring people to relationship with God -• Personal relationship with God changes relationships with others, including strangers becoming family -• Prayer for guidance and blessings as people go out into the world -• Request for God's presence and protection -• Reiteration of not being afraid and going in peace to love and serve the Lord -• Expression of love and trust in a higher power, with emphasis on faithfulness and unchanging nature -• Repetition of phrases "I love you" and "breathe in my deep air" -• Finalization with multiple instances of the word "Amen" \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, February 18, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, February 18, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3b68b1f1cd5e4cf30960e6b807c5ac4d3a62a9d6..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, February 18, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1701 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 4.00] Times of trouble and war and strife -[4.00 --> 12.40] Can you raise your voice to the storm cloud? -[12.72 --> 16.56] Put the thunder and surrender ring out -[16.56 --> 21.48] Does the lightning ask you if it's right? -[25.12 --> 29.62] Who has left the channel for a torrent? -[30.00 --> 34.00] Rain to sprout the desert with forests -[34.00 --> 39.00] In the wilderness that my hand has filled -[43.00 --> 47.00] Can you hunt the prey for young lions? -[47.00 --> 51.00] Can you lose the course of all lions? -[51.00 --> 54.00] Is this whole world busy? -[54.00 --> 56.00] Believe your will! -[56.00 --> 65.00] I smoked things I did not understand -[65.00 --> 69.00] Things too wonderful for me -[69.00 --> 74.00] Although I have no back to action -[74.00 --> 78.00] I've got nothing to do -[78.00 --> 87.00] There's reason to sit here -[87.00 --> 89.00] Why the creatures lives similar ? -[89.00 --> 92.00] So the question here -[92.00 --> 93.00] No, it's the opposite -[93.00 --> 96.00] It's how it seems because it's the present -[96.00 --> 125.98] Thank you. -[126.00 --> 155.98] Thank you. -[156.00 --> 158.00] Thank you. -[186.00 --> 188.00] Thank you. -[216.00 --> 218.00] Thank you. -[218.00 --> 220.00] Thank you. -[220.00 --> 222.00] Thank you. -[222.00 --> 224.00] Thank you. -[224.00 --> 228.26] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[229.88 --> 234.80] Our God is the Lion, the Lion of Judah. -[234.80 --> 239.80] He's roaring with power and fighting our battles. -[240.86 --> 245.20] And every need will bow before Him. -[245.94 --> 250.80] Our God is the Lamb, the Lamb that was slain. -[250.80 --> 256.76] For the sin of the world, His blood breaks the chains. -[257.18 --> 262.02] In every need will bow before the Lion and the Lamb. -[262.60 --> 267.74] In every need will bow before the Lion and the Lamb. -[267.74 --> 274.12] In every need will bow before the Lion and the Lamb. -[274.12 --> 278.12] In every need will bow before the Lion and the Lamb. -[278.12 --> 281.96] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[281.96 --> 286.06] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[286.06 --> 289.12] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[289.12 --> 301.34] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[301.34 --> 306.26] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[306.26 --> 310.10] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[311.64 --> 315.54] Oh, who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[317.12 --> 319.90] Who can stop the Lord? -[322.04 --> 327.52] I got him a lion, the lion of Judah -[327.52 --> 333.28] Roaring with power and fighting my battles -[333.28 --> 337.78] Every knee will bow before him -[337.78 --> 344.04] Our God is the Lamb, the Lamb that was slain -[344.04 --> 349.50] For the sin of the world, his blood breaks the chains -[349.50 --> 354.86] In every knee will bow before the lion and the lamb -[354.86 --> 361.98] Every knee will bow before the lion and the lamb -[361.98 --> 372.86] Oh, and every knee will bow before the lion and the lamb -[372.86 --> 382.74] Oh, and every knee will bow before the lion and the lamb -[382.74 --> 410.88] Good morning -[410.88 --> 411.84] There we go -[411.84 --> 415.32] Welcome to Emanuel Church -[415.32 --> 419.70] A special welcome if you are a guest with us this morning -[419.70 --> 423.68] We are really excited to gather together to worship our God -[423.68 --> 425.54] If you are a guest, my name is Chris -[425.54 --> 428.66] And I'm one of the pastors here at Emanuel -[428.66 --> 432.00] And it's my privilege to lead in worship this morning -[432.00 --> 433.42] With these others on stage -[433.42 --> 436.56] And a few that we haven't yet seen up here -[436.56 --> 439.32] If you would like to connect with us -[439.32 --> 442.08] I want to encourage you to do that at the Connect booth -[442.08 --> 443.24] Following our worship -[443.24 --> 445.00] Or there's cards in your seats -[445.00 --> 447.96] You can fill those out and put them in the collection bag -[447.96 --> 448.82] As they go by -[448.82 --> 451.42] Or there's a QR code you can scan with your phone -[451.42 --> 453.40] We'd love to connect with you -[453.40 --> 455.34] And see how we can meet together -[455.34 --> 457.18] Before we begin -[457.18 --> 459.62] We have a couple announcements to make -[459.62 --> 461.86] I'm going to invite Clem to the front -[461.86 --> 463.34] He's going to get ready for his -[463.34 --> 466.56] The first announcement I want to make is that -[466.56 --> 469.96] Young adults, there's a Bible study after service -[469.96 --> 473.24] Today that starts at 1 o'clock -[473.24 --> 476.22] And so if you're interested in attending that -[476.22 --> 478.16] And you consider yourself a young adult -[478.16 --> 480.12] I'll let you determine that for yourselves -[480.12 --> 484.00] You can talk to me after I can give you details -[484.00 --> 487.16] Or you can connect with Josh who's not here yet -[487.16 --> 489.14] But you can connect with him and reach out -[489.14 --> 490.16] And get details for that -[490.16 --> 491.58] Why don't you go ahead -[491.58 --> 498.34] This looks on -[498.34 --> 499.06] Oh, there we go -[499.06 --> 502.52] Okay, so I'm sure everyone here -[502.52 --> 504.36] Follows our online bulletin -[504.36 --> 505.84] And midweek memo -[505.84 --> 508.02] But just in case you missed it -[508.02 --> 511.24] The HD Stafford Breakfast Program team -[511.24 --> 512.88] Is looking for more volunteers -[512.88 --> 514.94] We've had a few retire -[514.94 --> 516.66] And some health issues -[516.66 --> 519.12] So we need two alternates -[519.12 --> 521.36] People who can fill in for sickness -[521.36 --> 523.20] And in health holidays -[523.20 --> 526.84] And that was lame, I know -[526.84 --> 531.46] And we're also looking for a permanent volunteer -[531.46 --> 533.82] To cover two Thursdays a month -[533.82 --> 535.14] During the school year -[535.14 --> 537.54] So you can reach out to either -[537.54 --> 538.38] Faye Shonet -[538.38 --> 539.70] I don't know if she's here -[539.70 --> 544.34] Or myself, Clem Molenkamp -[544.34 --> 546.22] Thanks in advance -[546.22 --> 547.84] And look forward to working with you -[547.84 --> 553.18] Thanks, Clem -[553.18 --> 559.14] Additionally, I want to let you know -[559.14 --> 561.72] That on March 2nd -[561.72 --> 563.08] We are going to be hosting -[563.08 --> 565.38] Our annual Mexico dinner -[565.38 --> 566.80] And so every year -[566.80 --> 567.68] We send a group -[567.68 --> 569.28] Down to Mexico -[569.28 --> 571.56] A group primarily of youth -[571.56 --> 572.34] Young people -[572.34 --> 574.56] Although not exclusively so -[574.56 --> 576.08] And we have a dinner -[576.08 --> 577.14] In support of that -[577.14 --> 579.00] And so on March 2nd -[579.00 --> 580.10] That dinner will be happening -[580.10 --> 581.58] You can sign up for that -[581.58 --> 582.92] At the Connect table as well -[582.92 --> 583.62] After service -[583.62 --> 585.12] Also there are links -[585.12 --> 587.02] To the digital sign up -[587.02 --> 588.04] In the e-bulletin -[588.04 --> 588.56] And the like -[588.56 --> 590.48] Brandon, who's right up front here -[590.48 --> 591.66] He can answer your questions -[591.66 --> 593.56] And give you the details on that -[593.56 --> 596.22] And then we also wanted -[596.22 --> 597.60] Everyone to know -[597.60 --> 599.80] And remember that next Sunday -[599.80 --> 601.40] Is Cadet Sunday -[601.40 --> 602.96] And so February 25 -[602.96 --> 604.72] We're going to be worshipping -[604.72 --> 606.40] And the cadets are going to help us do that -[606.40 --> 608.16] That's a boys group ministry -[608.16 --> 609.34] We're going to hear about -[609.34 --> 610.14] What they've been up to -[610.14 --> 611.20] This year as well -[611.20 --> 613.12] And lastly -[613.12 --> 615.10] This coming Saturday -[615.10 --> 616.62] February 24 -[616.62 --> 618.56] Is Coldest Night of the Year -[618.56 --> 621.48] That's an event that takes place -[621.48 --> 622.82] It's organized by -[622.82 --> 624.20] Coldest Night of the Year -[624.20 --> 625.14] In partnership with -[625.14 --> 626.04] Gateway of Hope -[626.04 --> 627.64] In supporting homelessness -[627.64 --> 629.08] And poverty issues -[629.08 --> 629.88] In our community -[629.88 --> 631.00] We have a team -[631.00 --> 632.78] That's walking in that event -[632.78 --> 634.58] And so there's still time -[634.58 --> 635.16] To sign up -[635.16 --> 636.10] To join the team -[636.10 --> 637.66] And if you join the team -[637.66 --> 638.80] That means you can walk -[638.80 --> 639.68] And participate -[639.68 --> 640.86] And be with us -[640.86 --> 642.58] Meeting at Gateway of Hope -[642.58 --> 644.62] Or you can support the team -[644.62 --> 646.02] And that means give a donation -[646.02 --> 647.36] In support -[647.36 --> 650.42] There are a number of us -[650.42 --> 651.14] On the team -[651.14 --> 652.28] Who have not yet met -[652.28 --> 653.38] Their donation goals -[653.38 --> 654.72] And so I encourage you -[654.72 --> 656.02] To look at the list -[656.02 --> 656.78] And support those -[656.78 --> 657.42] Who are trying to meet -[657.42 --> 658.06] Their targets -[658.06 --> 660.74] I won't say who that is -[660.74 --> 662.32] But I'll look at my family -[662.32 --> 663.06] Just to be sure -[663.06 --> 665.28] Also the Lobert family -[665.28 --> 666.30] Has a big goal to meet -[666.30 --> 667.70] And I think everyone else -[667.70 --> 668.20] Yet anyway -[668.20 --> 668.84] Point is -[668.84 --> 669.88] Please support that -[669.88 --> 670.70] By either joining -[670.70 --> 672.62] Or donating together -[672.62 --> 675.44] I think that's all -[675.44 --> 676.18] For our announcements -[676.18 --> 677.36] I'm going to invite you -[677.36 --> 677.90] To stand -[677.90 --> 678.98] As you're able -[678.98 --> 679.82] And where you are -[679.82 --> 681.36] As we are ushered -[681.36 --> 682.84] Into the presence of God -[682.84 --> 684.10] In worship together -[684.10 --> 687.36] Receive then -[687.36 --> 687.96] The greeting -[687.96 --> 690.12] Of our good God -[690.12 --> 692.24] Grace -[692.24 --> 693.50] Mercy -[693.50 --> 694.72] And peace to you -[694.72 --> 695.90] From God our Father -[695.90 --> 697.68] From the Lord Jesus Christ -[697.68 --> 698.18] His Son -[698.18 --> 698.88] And our Savior -[698.88 --> 700.02] Through the presence -[700.02 --> 700.60] And power -[700.60 --> 701.78] Of the Holy Spirit -[701.78 --> 703.10] All God's people said -[703.10 --> 704.24] Amen -[704.24 --> 705.44] Let's worship God -[705.44 --> 705.82] This morning -[705.82 --> 712.92] Our call to worship -[712.92 --> 715.82] Comes from Psalm 63 -[715.82 --> 717.28] Verse 1 to 4 -[717.28 --> 720.10] O God you are my God -[720.10 --> 721.94] Earnestly I seek you -[721.94 --> 724.20] My soul thirsts for you -[724.20 --> 726.64] My flesh faints for you -[726.64 --> 728.20] As in a dry -[728.20 --> 729.16] And weary land -[729.16 --> 730.44] Where there is no water -[730.44 --> 732.76] So I have looked upon you -[732.76 --> 733.70] In the sanctuary -[733.70 --> 735.36] Beholding your power -[735.36 --> 736.08] And your glory -[736.08 --> 738.22] Because your steadfast love -[738.22 --> 739.22] Is better than life -[739.22 --> 741.22] My lips will praise you -[741.22 --> 743.00] So I will bless you -[743.00 --> 745.10] As long as I live -[745.10 --> 746.32] In your name -[746.32 --> 747.98] I will lift up my hands -[747.98 --> 750.14] Let's worship God together -[750.14 --> 777.94] Thank you -[777.94 --> 789.56] Light of the world, you step down into darkness. Open my eyes, let me see. -[790.56 --> 801.56] Beauty that made it is hard to adore you. Hope of all lives within you. -[801.56 --> 815.56] Here I am to worship and here I am to bow and here I am to sing and you are the one. -[816.32 --> 826.78] Thoughts you never love me, thoughts you never love me, thoughts you never want me, thoughts you never want me, come to me. -[831.56 --> 842.56] King of all days are so highly exalted, glorious in heaven and above. -[843.56 --> 853.56] Come be a king to the earth you created, all for the sake you gave me. -[853.56 --> 867.56] Here I am to worship and here I am to bow and here I am to sing and you are the one. -[867.56 --> 879.56] All together, all together worthy, all together wonderful to live. -[879.56 --> 886.56] Here I am to worship and here I am to worship. -[886.56 --> 892.74] To see the sin of water go. -[893.14 --> 898.54] To be the Lord, how much it goes. -[898.98 --> 904.50] To see the sin of water go. -[906.92 --> 912.46] Here I am to worship, here I am to help. -[912.46 --> 918.18] Here I am to save and for I know. -[918.78 --> 924.28] All together loving, all together perfect. -[924.90 --> 929.34] All together wonderful to be. -[930.76 --> 936.40] Here I am to worship, here I am to bow down. -[936.40 --> 941.40] Here I am to save and for I know. -[942.46 --> 947.84] All together loving, all together worthy. -[948.36 --> 952.82] All together wonderful to be. -[953.00 --> 957.50] While all together loving, all together well and yeah. -[958.72 --> 960.68] Quit that secret. -[960.80 --> 962.40] Huh. -[962.60 --> 964.02] Fuck. -[964.28 --> 964.84] Oh. -[964.84 --> 992.40] I pray for one -[992.40 --> 997.88] so unchanging -[997.88 --> 1003.16] Ageless Father -[1003.16 --> 1006.70] You're my love -[1006.70 --> 1009.76] You're peace -[1009.76 --> 1013.90] Born upon -[1013.90 --> 1018.64] I depend on You -[1018.64 --> 1025.08] I call up to You -[1025.08 --> 1030.64] Again and again -[1030.64 --> 1036.64] I call up to You -[1036.64 --> 1040.64] Again and again -[1040.64 --> 1047.08] You are my love -[1047.08 --> 1052.64] You die so strong -[1052.64 --> 1058.64] You lift me up -[1058.64 --> 1063.08] When I fall down -[1063.08 --> 1067.86] All through the storm -[1067.86 --> 1073.08] Your love is -[1073.08 --> 1077.08] The anchor -[1077.08 --> 1084.52] My hope is in You -[1084.52 --> 1092.96] In Your life -[1092.96 --> 1096.96] So unchanging -[1096.96 --> 1103.96] Ageless Father -[1103.96 --> 1107.40] You're my love -[1107.40 --> 1108.40] You're my love -[1108.40 --> 1110.40] You're my love -[1110.40 --> 1112.40] You're my love -[1112.40 --> 1114.84] Lord of all -[1114.84 --> 1118.84] I depend on You -[1118.84 --> 1125.40] I call up to You -[1125.40 --> 1130.84] Again and again -[1130.84 --> 1137.28] I call up to You -[1137.28 --> 1140.84] Again and again -[1140.84 --> 1147.34] You are my love -[1147.34 --> 1151.28] Every time is my trouble -[1151.28 --> 1153.72] You're my love -[1153.72 --> 1154.72] You're my love -[1154.72 --> 1155.72] You're my love -[1155.72 --> 1156.72] You're my love -[1156.72 --> 1157.72] You're my love -[1157.72 --> 1159.72] You're my love -[1159.72 --> 1162.72] When I fall down -[1162.72 --> 1166.72] All through the storm -[1166.72 --> 1172.78] Your love is -[1172.78 --> 1177.22] The anchor -[1177.22 --> 1178.22] My hope is -[1178.22 --> 1181.22] The anchor -[1181.22 --> 1182.22] My hope is -[1182.22 --> 1188.22] The anchor -[1188.22 --> 1193.22] My hope is -[1193.22 --> 1209.94] My love is the anchor, my hope is in you alone. -[1212.06 --> 1213.22] You may be seated. -[1223.22 --> 1225.82] Please join me as we quiet our hearts in prayer. -[1230.58 --> 1237.30] Almighty, holy, and perfect God, we confess and admit that each of us needs your forgiveness -[1237.30 --> 1238.76] over and over. -[1239.30 --> 1239.98] We have sinned. -[1240.58 --> 1244.74] We have not always been the salt and light in this world that you want us to be. -[1246.02 --> 1250.98] Lord, some of our sins may have been obvious to those around us, and some may have been -[1250.98 --> 1254.84] the sins of the heart, kept secret from everyone except you. -[1256.10 --> 1260.46] Lord, hear our prayers now as we take a moment in personal silent confession. -[1280.98 --> 1281.46] Amen. -[1286.10 --> 1286.70] Amen. -[1286.70 --> 1287.08] Amen. -[1287.10 --> 1287.14] Amen. -[1287.14 --> 1287.70] Amen. -[1287.70 --> 1293.16] Jesus Christ, we thank you for your forgiveness and are thankful that in 1 John you assure us -[1293.16 --> 1299.22] that if we confess our sins, you are faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify -[1299.22 --> 1301.14] us from all unrighteousness. -[1301.46 --> 1305.72] We thank you, Jesus, for your sacrifice, and in your name alone we pray. -[1306.14 --> 1306.42] Amen. -[1306.42 --> 1306.52] Amen. -[1306.52 --> 1306.58] Amen. -[1310.98 --> 1334.34] I love you, Lord. -[1334.34 --> 1339.56] I am the Lord. -[1339.56 --> 1349.70] To worship you, oh, my soul rejoice. -[1349.70 --> 1360.32] Take joy, my dear, in what you feel. -[1360.32 --> 1369.32] Make me a sweet, sweet song in your ear. -[1369.32 --> 1376.32] I love you, Lord. -[1376.32 --> 1382.64] And I love my voice. -[1382.64 --> 1384.64] I love you, Lord. -[1384.64 --> 1386.64] I love you, Lord. -[1386.64 --> 1389.64] I love you, Lord. -[1389.64 --> 1391.64] I love you, Lord. -[1391.64 --> 1396.78] Take joy, my dear. -[1396.78 --> 1403.78] Take joy, my dear. -[1403.78 --> 1406.92] Give me a sweet season. -[1406.92 --> 1411.92] In your healing -[1411.92 --> 1417.92] I exalt thee -[1417.92 --> 1423.92] I exalt thee -[1423.92 --> 1429.92] I exalt thee -[1429.92 --> 1432.92] Oh Lord -[1432.92 --> 1440.92] I exalt thee -[1440.92 --> 1445.92] I exalt thee -[1445.92 --> 1451.92] I exalt thee -[1451.92 --> 1455.92] Oh Lord -[1455.92 --> 1461.92] If the Lord I come -[1461.92 --> 1467.92] And all the earth -[1467.92 --> 1471.92] I exalt thee -[1471.92 --> 1473.92] Oh Lord -[1473.92 --> 1479.92] When thou -[1479.92 --> 1481.92] Are you -[1481.92 --> 1483.92] Lord -[1483.92 --> 1485.92] Lord -[1485.92 --> 1491.92] Thou are you -[1491.92 --> 1497.92] Lord -[1497.92 --> 1501.92] I exalt thee -[1501.92 --> 1503.92] I exalt thee -[1503.92 --> 1509.92] I exalt thee -[1509.92 --> 1513.92] I exalt thee -[1513.92 --> 1515.92] Oh Lord -[1515.92 --> 1517.92] I exalt thee -[1517.92 --> 1527.92] I exalt thee -[1527.92 --> 1529.92] I exalt thee -[1529.92 --> 1531.92] I exalt thee -[1531.92 --> 1535.92] I exalt thee -[1535.92 --> 1537.92] Oh Lord -[1537.92 --> 1547.92] I exalt thee -[1547.92 --> 1549.92] I exalt thee -[1549.92 --> 1551.92] I exalt thee -[1551.92 --> 1553.92] I exalt thee -[1553.92 --> 1555.92] I exalt thee -[1555.92 --> 1557.92] I exalt thee -[1557.92 --> 1558.92] In our worship -[1558.92 --> 1559.92] This morning -[1559.92 --> 1561.92] We get to administer -[1561.92 --> 1563.92] And participate -[1563.92 --> 1565.92] In the sacrament of baptism -[1565.92 --> 1567.92] For one of the little children -[1567.92 --> 1568.92] Among us -[1568.92 --> 1569.92] For safety -[1569.92 --> 1572.92] We believe that the water itself -[1572.92 --> 1575.92] Does not cleanse from sin -[1575.92 --> 1577.92] But rather that it symbolizes for us -[1577.92 --> 1579.92] Jesus life death and resurrection -[1579.92 --> 1584.92] And that this child born with a sinful nature -[1584.92 --> 1589.92] Is offered the promises of God for forgiveness and life in the Holy Spirit -[1589.92 --> 1595.92] And so in our reformed tradition we baptize infants not out of superstition -[1595.92 --> 1599.92] But because they are covenant children -[1599.92 --> 1608.92] Now this idea of covenant is rooted in God's promise to Abraham that was sealed in the sign of circumcision -[1608.92 --> 1615.92] And in baptism now the triune God seals the promise of our adoption as his children -[1615.92 --> 1619.92] Marking for us a new identity in Christ Jesus -[1619.92 --> 1624.92] And so we baptize in obedience to Christ's command -[1624.92 --> 1629.92] We baptize in line with the history of the Christian church and the teaching of the Bible -[1629.92 --> 1632.92] Throughout God's redemptive work in the world -[1632.92 --> 1637.92] Baptism signifies and seals inclusion in the covenant community -[1637.92 --> 1639.92] And cleansing from sin -[1639.92 --> 1644.92] And this morning we pray that Sadie embraces her covenant privileges -[1644.92 --> 1648.92] That she acknowledges her Lord throughout her life -[1648.92 --> 1653.92] To do that we have a bit of a liturgy that will have questions for Brandon and Sav -[1653.92 --> 1656.92] And also for you in participation -[1656.92 --> 1660.92] So this time I'm going to invite Brandon, Sav and your family up to the front -[1660.92 --> 1688.92] To begin I'm going to ask you guys two questions and at the end I will invite you to respond by saying we do with God's help -[1688.92 --> 1699.92] First, do you believe that your children, though sinful by nature, are received by God in Christ as members of his covenant and therefore ought to be baptized? -[1699.92 --> 1703.92] Second, I appreciate your eagerness -[1703.92 --> 1714.92] Do you promise in reliance on the Holy Spirit and with the help of the Christian community to do all in your power to instruct Sadie and all your children in the Christian faith -[1714.92 --> 1718.92] And lead them by your example into the life of Christian discipleship? -[1718.92 --> 1720.92] What is your answer? -[1720.92 --> 1721.92] Amen -[1721.92 --> 1731.92] Our Lord Jesus said, let the little children come to me and do not hinder them for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these -[1731.92 --> 1738.92] And so to mark that and participate in that we're going to invite all the little children and the young at heart to come forward -[1738.92 --> 1745.92] And just sit up here so that you can see and engage, participate, remember your own baptisms for some of you -[1745.92 --> 1750.92] And so you can get a good look at beautiful Sadie -[1750.92 --> 1760.92] Awesome -[1760.92 --> 1763.92] Look at this, they're coming in waves -[1763.92 --> 1769.92] All right -[1769.92 --> 1777.92] Guys, in just a moment we're going to take this water and we're going to pour it over Sadie's head -[1777.92 --> 1785.92] This water is a picture for us of the promise for Jesus' blood to wash us and make us new -[1785.92 --> 1786.92] New -[1786.92 --> 1796.92] That's why we pour it on her head, that's why we mark the cleanliness of God's gift of faith and new life in him with this water -[1797.92 --> 1799.92] I'm going to present her -[1800.92 --> 1803.92] Sadie Brook Muller -[1803.92 --> 1806.92] I baptize you in the name of the Father -[1806.92 --> 1808.92] And of the Son -[1809.92 --> 1811.92] And of the Holy Spirit -[1811.92 --> 1812.92] Amen -[1815.92 --> 1819.92] Good job -[1819.92 --> 1820.92] Hey -[1825.92 --> 1826.92] Congregation -[1826.92 --> 1830.92] We have an opportunity to share in this moment together -[1830.92 --> 1833.92] And so I'm going to invite you also to stand -[1833.92 --> 1836.92] And kids, you guys can stand as well -[1836.92 --> 1842.92] And then after this question, after we answer it together, you can go back to your parents and to your seats, okay? -[1842.92 --> 1851.92] And so, family of God, do you promise to love, encourage, and support Brandon, Sav, Hayden, and now Sadie? -[1852.92 --> 1865.92] By welcoming them into our church family, by teaching the gospel of God's love, by being an example of Christian faith and character, and by giving the strong support of God's family in fellowship, prayer, and service? -[1865.92 --> 1866.92] What is your answer? -[1866.92 --> 1867.92] We do, and God's help us -[1867.92 --> 1869.92] We do, and God's help us -[1869.92 --> 1870.92] Amen -[1870.92 --> 1871.92] You may be seated -[1871.92 --> 1875.92] May I take her for a moment? -[1875.92 --> 1880.92] Yeah, you guys can just come down, no? -[1881.92 --> 1883.92] Oh, I know -[1883.92 --> 1884.92] I know -[1884.92 --> 1886.92] Hey, beautiful -[1886.92 --> 1896.92] Feels like I've been making this journey a lot in the last little month -[1896.92 --> 1907.92] Today, in baptism, we mark what we hope and pray will be the beginning of Sadie's journey of faith among us -[1907.92 --> 1914.92] That this won't be the last time we see her come up to the front as she runs up for the front for children's worship -[1914.92 --> 1917.92] And as she races out to the back for children's worship time -[1917.92 --> 1920.92] As she joins with the other girls in gems -[1920.92 --> 1923.92] As she gathers in worship -[1923.92 --> 1926.92] As maybe even one day she goes on the Mexico mission trip -[1926.92 --> 1929.92] And probably one day sooner than everyone else her age -[1929.92 --> 1932.92] Because Brandon and Sav go together often -[1932.92 --> 1935.92] But it is our prayer and our firm hope -[1935.92 --> 1939.92] That what begins today continues in her life -[1939.92 --> 1946.92] Continues as she grows in the faith and in the knowledge of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ -[1946.92 --> 1950.92] And we all together pray that one day -[1951.92 --> 1952.92] Hey? -[1952.92 --> 1954.92] Sorry, she just smiled at me, it was really cute -[1955.92 --> 1959.92] That one day she will stand in front of us and profess her faith -[1959.92 --> 1965.92] That she will take the promises offered to her here and claim them as her own -[1965.92 --> 1969.92] This is our prayer together -[1969.92 --> 1970.92] Hey -[1970.92 --> 1976.92] I know, I know -[1976.92 --> 1977.92] Which one? -[1978.92 --> 1985.92] We want to mark this occasion for you guys with a gift -[1985.92 --> 1990.92] And so I'm going to invite Daryl Wind, who's their elder, to come forward -[1990.92 --> 1994.92] Share a gift and a certificate with you marking this occasion -[2004.92 --> 2006.92] And before you sit together -[2006.92 --> 2008.92] We're going to pray for Sadie and for you -[2008.92 --> 2010.92] And I'm going to invite all of you as you're sitting -[2010.92 --> 2011.92] If you are so moved -[2011.92 --> 2013.92] Just to hold out your hand -[2013.92 --> 2017.92] As we pray a blessing over her this morning -[2017.92 --> 2018.92] Let's pray together -[2021.92 --> 2022.92] Holy God -[2022.92 --> 2025.92] We are moved by your grace -[2026.92 --> 2029.92] And we are compelled by your work in the world -[2029.92 --> 2032.92] To offer this promise to Sadie today -[2032.92 --> 2040.92] We are so moved by the covenantal inclusion that you have granted upon her as a child of faith -[2041.92 --> 2044.92] And we pray that today and every day going forward, Lord -[2044.92 --> 2046.92] That you would bless her and keep her -[2047.92 --> 2050.92] That you would make your face to shine upon her and be gracious to her -[2051.92 --> 2053.92] That you would turn your face towards her -[2054.92 --> 2056.92] And that she would know your peace -[2056.92 --> 2061.92] In this way, Lord God, write your name on her forehead -[2062.92 --> 2063.92] And may she know you -[2064.92 --> 2065.92] In Christ Jesus we pray -[2066.92 --> 2067.92] Amen -[2068.92 --> 2069.92] Amen -[2070.92 --> 2071.92] Thank you guys, you may have a seat -[2072.92 --> 2077.92] We're going to stand and sing together a song that Brandon and Sav have picked for us -[2078.92 --> 2079.92] In recognition and celebration of this -[2080.92 --> 2082.92] Yet not I, but through Christ in me -[2083.92 --> 2084.92] We can stand together -[2086.92 --> 2087.92] Yep -[2087.92 --> 2089.92] Amen -[2091.92 --> 2093.92] Amen -[2094.92 --> 2095.92] Diversity -[2095.92 --> 2102.92] Jesus, Lord, I am here. -[2115.92 --> 2122.00] What kind of grace to Jesus, my Redeemer? -[2122.00 --> 2127.62] There is no more than for heaven now to give. -[2128.70 --> 2133.88] He is my Lord, my righteousness and freedom. -[2134.60 --> 2139.88] My steadfast love, my kingdom now is peace. -[2140.62 --> 2145.76] To this I hold, my hope is only Jesus. -[2145.76 --> 2151.54] For my life is only now to give. -[2152.90 --> 2157.34] Oh, how strange and divine I can sing. -[2157.54 --> 2163.46] All is mine, if not I, but when Christ is me. -[2163.46 --> 2193.46] -[2193.46 --> 2198.80] His power is only Jesus. -[2198.80 --> 2204.14] Oh, my steadfast love, my strength and divine I can sing. -[2204.14 --> 2209.48] Oh, my steadfast love, my strength and divine I can sing. -[2209.48 --> 2214.82] For the night has been on and I shall overcome. -[2214.82 --> 2244.82] -[2244.82 --> 2250.16] Oh, my steadfast love, my strength and divine I can sing. -[2250.16 --> 2254.16] Oh, my steadfast love, my strength and divine I can sing. -[2254.16 --> 2259.50] Oh, my steadfast love, my strength and divine I can sing. -[2259.50 --> 2264.84] Jesus, how and my strength and divine I can sing. -[2264.84 --> 2270.18] Oh, my steadfast love, my strength and divine I can sing. -[2270.18 --> 2274.18] Oh, my steadfast love, my strength and divine I can sing. -[2274.18 --> 2286.52] Oh, my steadfast love, my strength and divine I can sing. -[2286.52 --> 2288.90] Oh, my steadfast love, my strength and divine I can sing. -[2288.90 --> 2289.62] Oh, my steadfast love, my strength and divine I can sing. -[2289.62 --> 2293.00] Oh, my steadfast love, my strength and divine I can sing. -[2293.00 --> 2298.74] For He has said that He will bring me home. -[2298.74 --> 2305.22] And day by day I know He will renew me -[2305.22 --> 2311.64] Until I stand with joy before the throne -[2311.64 --> 2318.46] To this I hold, my hope is only Jesus -[2318.46 --> 2324.26] All the glory evermore to Him -[2324.26 --> 2331.08] When the race is complete, still my lips shall be me -[2331.08 --> 2335.74] Yet not I, a new Christ in me -[2335.74 --> 2342.42] To this I hold, my hope is only Jesus -[2342.42 --> 2349.32] All the glory evermore to Him -[2349.32 --> 2356.14] When the race is complete, still my lips shall repeat -[2356.14 --> 2362.32] Yet not I, a new Christ in me -[2362.32 --> 2369.14] When the race is complete, still my lips shall repeat -[2369.14 --> 2375.14] Yet not I, a new Christ in me -[2375.14 --> 2383.14] Yet not I, a new Christ in me -[2383.14 --> 2387.04] Let me see you -[2387.04 --> 2411.86] Hello -[2411.86 --> 2413.34] Good morning -[2413.34 --> 2416.42] My name is Clem and I'm one of the deacons here at Emmanuel -[2416.42 --> 2419.54] The first offering is for our church budget -[2419.54 --> 2422.88] The special offering is for the Gateway of Hope -[2422.88 --> 2425.82] Which is located on the bypass by -[2425.82 --> 2429.50] Quantlin College -[2429.50 --> 2433.16] They are a ministry of the Salvation Army -[2433.16 --> 2436.40] And they serve the city and township of Langley -[2436.40 --> 2443.08] The Gateway of Hope raises awareness for the hurt, hungry, and homeless in our communities -[2443.08 --> 2452.38] Also, an emergency shelter, basic medical services, resources for transitional support, and much more -[2452.38 --> 2456.70] Let's pray for these people -[2456.70 --> 2460.66] Benevolent Father, thank you for your love -[2460.66 --> 2463.76] Which is a wellspring of life to us all -[2463.76 --> 2467.48] Thank you for preserving the lives of the homeless -[2467.48 --> 2472.72] You are a shelter and a strong tower for those who need refuge -[2472.72 --> 2478.70] We thank you for your enduring grace that covers those who cannot take care of themselves -[2478.70 --> 2482.10] We will praise you at all times -[2482.10 --> 2484.64] We will constantly speak your praises -[2484.64 --> 2487.14] We will boast only in you -[2487.14 --> 2491.26] Let all who are helpless take heart -[2491.26 --> 2493.48] We will tell of your greatness -[2493.48 --> 2495.64] And exalt your name together -[2495.64 --> 2496.22] Amen -[2496.22 --> 2498.24] Amen -[2498.24 --> 2498.54] Amen -[2500.16 --> 2501.04] Amen -[2501.04 --> 2501.64] Amen -[2501.64 --> 2501.76] Amen -[2501.76 --> 2502.54] Amen -[2502.54 --> 2503.12] Amen -[2503.12 --> 2505.16] Amen -[2505.16 --> 2516.68] Amen -[2516.68 --> 2517.92] Amen -[2517.92 --> 2518.94] Amen -[2518.94 --> 2519.22] Amen -[2519.22 --> 2519.42] Amen -[2519.42 --> 2520.06] Amen -[2520.06 --> 2521.16] Yes -[2521.16 --> 2521.54] Amen -[2521.54 --> 2521.64] Amen -[2521.64 --> 2521.98] Amen -[2521.98 --> 2522.16] Amen -[2522.16 --> 2524.06] Amen -[2524.06 --> 2524.40] Amen -[2524.40 --> 2525.46] Amen -[2525.46 --> 2525.88] Amen -[2525.88 --> 2531.16] To let my heart be changed -[2531.16 --> 2536.32] For you, your love with grace -[2536.32 --> 2541.16] And your love with you -[2541.16 --> 2549.00] Going down to go -[2549.00 --> 2552.16] The ruthless things I see -[2552.16 --> 2558.16] In me, we'll be stripped away -[2558.16 --> 2563.52] By the power of the Lord -[2563.52 --> 2576.16] Holy Ghost, let your love surround me -[2576.16 --> 2582.16] Bring in, bring in -[2582.16 --> 2586.16] Glory to your Son -[2586.16 --> 2592.16] For now, as I will be -[2592.16 --> 2596.16] A love that I believe -[2596.16 --> 2600.16] And I will soar with you -[2600.16 --> 2602.16] Rest here in the old -[2602.16 --> 2606.16] The power of the Lord -[2606.16 --> 2612.16] And I will soar with you -[2612.16 --> 2614.16] For now, as I will show you -[2614.16 --> 2616.16] And I will soar with you -[2616.16 --> 2618.16] The Lord -[2618.16 --> 2624.16] The heart of your heart is living -[2624.16 --> 2634.16] Lord, I will come, my Lord -[2635.06 --> 2640.30] Nothing will unfolds in my heart -[2640.30 --> 2644.16] Be living every day -[2644.16 --> 2650.26] The heart of your love -[2650.26 --> 2662.16] Lord, we are left to love surround me -[2662.16 --> 2672.16] Bring me glory to your side -[2672.16 --> 2678.16] And as a way of life -[2678.16 --> 2684.16] I will soar with you -[2684.16 --> 2688.16] Your spirit leads me on -[2688.16 --> 2692.16] In the power of your love -[2692.16 --> 2696.16] And I will soar with you -[2696.16 --> 2698.16] Your spirit leads me on -[2698.16 --> 2702.16] In the power of your love -[2702.16 --> 2716.16] I'd like to welcome all the kids up here for Kids Corner -[2718.16 --> 2720.16] Hey, can you guys back up a little bit? -[2720.16 --> 2730.16] We got some real eager ones and then some stragglers -[2730.16 --> 2734.16] Alright, I'm going to say good morning to you guys -[2734.16 --> 2736.16] But I want you to say it really loud -[2736.16 --> 2738.16] So everybody in the back can hear your response -[2738.16 --> 2740.16] Does that work? -[2740.16 --> 2742.16] Good morning -[2742.16 --> 2744.16] Morning -[2744.16 --> 2745.16] Excellent -[2745.16 --> 2746.16] I want to ask you guys a question -[2746.16 --> 2748.16] Does anybody in this group ever go camping? -[2748.16 --> 2752.16] Everybody, almost -[2752.16 --> 2754.16] Some parents maybe don't like camping -[2754.16 --> 2756.16] They like glamping maybe more -[2756.16 --> 2758.16] Is that what's going on? -[2758.16 --> 2760.16] What's one of the cool things about camping -[2760.16 --> 2762.16] When I was a kid is -[2762.16 --> 2764.16] Did you ever get a flashlight when you get to go camping? -[2764.16 --> 2768.16] Do your parents give you a flashlight to play with in the dark? -[2768.16 --> 2769.16] Yeah? -[2769.16 --> 2770.16] It's fun to play -[2770.16 --> 2772.16] Do you like to play flashlight tag and stuff like that? -[2772.16 --> 2774.16] And sit in your tent or in your camper -[2774.16 --> 2776.16] And just play with the flashlight on the ceiling? -[2780.16 --> 2782.16] A three room or tent? -[2782.16 --> 2783.16] Nice -[2783.16 --> 2784.16] What's the thing about flashlights? -[2784.16 --> 2786.16] What's cool about them Malachi? -[2786.16 --> 2788.16] They have light -[2788.16 --> 2790.16] And when it's dark it's great to have -[2790.16 --> 2794.16] Can anybody think of some other examples of things that give off light in the dark? -[2794.16 --> 2796.16] Give me one -[2800.16 --> 2802.16] Headlights, headlamp -[2802.16 --> 2804.16] The Holy Spirit gives off light in the dark? -[2804.16 --> 2806.16] Good answer -[2806.16 --> 2808.16] A lamp -[2808.16 --> 2810.16] How about you? -[2810.16 --> 2812.16] A glow worm -[2812.16 --> 2814.16] Okay, I've got some pictures up here -[2814.16 --> 2816.16] See I've got some examples of light in the dark -[2816.16 --> 2818.16] Let's see the first one -[2818.16 --> 2819.16] Did somebody say candle? -[2819.16 --> 2820.16] That's a good one eh? -[2820.16 --> 2822.16] When the power goes out sometimes the candles come out at home -[2822.16 --> 2824.16] Next one -[2824.16 --> 2826.16] Ooh -[2826.16 --> 2828.16] Is there such thing as a glow in the -[2828.16 --> 2832.16] Is there such thing as glow in the dark jellyfish out there? -[2832.16 --> 2834.16] Alright, next -[2834.16 --> 2836.16] What's that? -[2836.16 --> 2838.16] Ooh, those are kind of good -[2838.16 --> 2839.16] We kind of need those -[2839.16 --> 2840.16] Next -[2840.16 --> 2842.16] Christmas lights -[2842.16 --> 2844.16] And the last one -[2844.16 --> 2846.16] Does anybody know what that is? -[2846.16 --> 2847.16] Yes -[2847.16 --> 2848.16] They're so cool -[2848.16 --> 2850.16] When I was a kid we used to collect them and put them in a jar -[2850.16 --> 2853.16] And run around with these fireflies in the jar -[2853.16 --> 2854.16] It was really cool -[2854.16 --> 2858.16] What's the story about why are we talking about light? -[2858.16 --> 2862.16] The story today in the back we're going to talk about being a light for Jesus -[2862.16 --> 2868.16] We're going to go into the world and be a light for Jesus and be how Jesus would like us to be -[2868.16 --> 2869.16] Sound good? -[2869.16 --> 2872.16] Can I get all you guys to stand up and face that way? -[2872.16 --> 2874.16] We're going to do the blessing -[2874.16 --> 2876.16] Ready? -[2876.16 --> 2879.16] Lord be with you -[2879.16 --> 2881.16] And also with you -[2906.16 --> 2907.16] Morning, my name is Dick -[2907.16 --> 2909.16] And I'm leading us in -[2909.16 --> 2910.16] Contraditional prayer -[2910.16 --> 2911.16] But before I do -[2911.16 --> 2913.16] I just want to acknowledge the fish -[2913.16 --> 2915.16] Pretty awesome -[2915.16 --> 2917.16] I didn't see the ones on that side -[2917.16 --> 2919.16] I saw the ones on the back -[2919.16 --> 2921.16] From the thing when I came in -[2921.16 --> 2922.16] But -[2922.16 --> 2923.16] You think about it -[2923.16 --> 2924.16] Each one -[2924.16 --> 2925.16] Swims through life -[2926.16 --> 2928.16] And then when they come into contact with Jesus -[2928.16 --> 2929.16] And his word and his -[2929.16 --> 2931.16] Gift for all of us -[2932.16 --> 2934.16] And then we have probably some that are not on here -[2934.16 --> 2936.16] That he's already called home -[2937.16 --> 2939.16] Anyway, let's pray -[2939.16 --> 2941.16] Father of art in heaven, Lord -[2941.16 --> 2942.16] Thank you -[2943.16 --> 2944.16] Thank you for today -[2944.16 --> 2945.16] Thank you for Sadie -[2945.16 --> 2947.16] Thank you for her family, Lord -[2947.16 --> 2950.16] We pray will you bless her -[2950.16 --> 2952.16] Will you bless her family through her -[2952.16 --> 2954.16] And will you bless her through them -[2954.16 --> 2957.16] Lord as we -[2957.16 --> 2958.16] Lord as we -[2958.16 --> 2959.16] Think about -[2959.16 --> 2960.16] Psalm 139 -[2960.16 --> 2962.16] We realize that -[2962.16 --> 2964.16] You knew Sadie -[2964.16 --> 2965.16] Before she was Sadie -[2966.16 --> 2968.16] You've got all her days -[2969.16 --> 2970.16] Arranged for her -[2971.16 --> 2973.16] Just like the rest of us, Lord -[2973.16 --> 2974.16] You know exactly -[2975.16 --> 2976.16] Where we're at -[2976.16 --> 2977.16] You know exactly -[2978.16 --> 2979.16] What we think -[2979.16 --> 2981.16] And Lord -[2981.16 --> 2982.16] You call each one of us -[2982.16 --> 2985.16] And you sent your son -[2985.16 --> 2986.16] For each one of us -[2986.16 --> 2989.16] And we are so thankful, Lord -[2990.16 --> 2992.16] And if we don't think about that enough -[2992.16 --> 2993.16] Lord, convict us -[2994.16 --> 2995.16] So that we do -[2996.16 --> 2997.16] And then when we think of these fish -[2998.16 --> 2999.16] On the walls up here -[3000.16 --> 3002.16] We see many that have been affected by -[3003.16 --> 3005.16] Your gift on the cross -[3005.16 --> 3008.16] And then we see a whole bunch more that haven't yet -[3009.16 --> 3010.16] Lord, will you call each one -[3011.16 --> 3012.16] Even the ones that are -[3013.16 --> 3014.16] Quite a ways away -[3015.16 --> 3016.16] Away in this world -[3016.16 --> 3017.16] Just swimming about -[3018.16 --> 3019.16] Doing whatever -[3020.16 --> 3022.16] Lord, will you convict each one -[3023.16 --> 3024.16] Lord, we pray for our local -[3025.16 --> 3026.16] Church -[3027.16 --> 3028.16] For everyone here -[3029.16 --> 3030.16] Lord, there's so many people -[3030.16 --> 3031.16] You've already called home -[3031.16 --> 3032.16] In the last little while -[3032.16 --> 3035.16] And we want to pray for -[3036.16 --> 3038.16] The people that are left behind, Lord -[3039.16 --> 3041.16] Lord, we know you called them home -[3042.16 --> 3043.16] But they left us -[3044.16 --> 3045.16] There's an empty spot -[3046.16 --> 3049.16] Help us to manage day to day -[3050.16 --> 3051.16] Help us to -[3052.16 --> 3053.16] Trust and obey, Lord -[3054.16 --> 3056.16] Lord, we pray for each one of us -[3057.16 --> 3059.16] Whether we are at home working -[3059.16 --> 3061.16] Working in an office -[3062.16 --> 3063.16] Working wherever -[3064.16 --> 3065.16] Going to school -[3065.16 --> 3066.16] Pray for the teachers, Lord -[3067.16 --> 3068.16] Lord, we pray for -[3069.16 --> 3070.16] Our municipality -[3071.16 --> 3072.16] Our leaders -[3072.16 --> 3073.16] Whether they be local, provincial -[3074.16 --> 3075.16] Or federal -[3076.16 --> 3077.16] And then we pray for the bigger world, Lord -[3078.16 --> 3079.16] There's so much stuff -[3080.16 --> 3081.16] That's happening -[3082.16 --> 3083.16] Lord, we know and acknowledge you -[3083.16 --> 3084.16] We're in total control -[3085.16 --> 3086.16] Sometimes we don't understand why -[3086.16 --> 3088.16] Things happen as they do -[3089.16 --> 3091.16] Lord, we pray that you come back -[3092.16 --> 3093.16] Soon -[3093.16 --> 3094.16] And you call each one -[3095.16 --> 3096.16] Who has not -[3097.16 --> 3098.16] Acknowledged your call yet -[3099.16 --> 3100.16] We pray, Lord, will you be with -[3101.16 --> 3102.16] Pastor Chris as he -[3103.16 --> 3104.16] Shures your word -[3105.16 --> 3106.16] We pray that you give each one of us -[3107.16 --> 3109.16] An open ear, mind and heart -[3110.16 --> 3111.16] And not only that we listen -[3111.16 --> 3112.16] But that we -[3113.16 --> 3114.16] Leave here and live it -[3114.16 --> 3116.16] Thank you, Lord -[3116.16 --> 3117.16] In Jesus' name we pray -[3117.16 --> 3118.16] Amen -[3137.16 --> 3142.16] We have been in an ongoing series in the book of Romans -[3142.16 --> 3146.16] We continue that this morning in Romans 12 -[3147.16 --> 3149.16] Verses 9 through 21 -[3150.16 --> 3152.16] That will be on the screen behind me -[3153.16 --> 3154.16] The first time we go through it -[3155.16 --> 3156.16] But as always, I encourage you to -[3157.16 --> 3158.16] Have a Bible in your hands -[3158.16 --> 3159.16] Whether it's on your device -[3160.16 --> 3161.16] Or if you brought one -[3162.16 --> 3163.16] Great, there are a few at the back as well -[3164.16 --> 3165.16] There's some large print and some other -[3166.16 --> 3167.16] Bibles back there -[3167.16 --> 3168.16] You can grab one from there -[3169.16 --> 3171.16] To help you in following along -[3172.16 --> 3176.16] Let's begin by reading God's word together -[3177.16 --> 3178.16] To us, Romans 12 -[3179.16 --> 3180.16] Starting at verse 9 -[3183.16 --> 3185.16] Love must be sincere -[3186.16 --> 3187.16] Hate what is evil -[3188.16 --> 3189.16] Cling to what is good -[3190.16 --> 3192.16] Be devoted to one another in love -[3193.16 --> 3194.16] Honor one another above yourselves -[3195.16 --> 3196.16] Never be lacking in zeal -[3196.16 --> 3197.16] Be lacking in zeal -[3197.16 --> 3199.16] But keep your spiritual fervor -[3200.16 --> 3201.16] Serving the Lord -[3203.16 --> 3204.16] Be joyful in hope -[3205.16 --> 3207.16] Patient in affliction -[3208.16 --> 3209.16] Faithful in prayer -[3210.16 --> 3212.16] Share with the Lord's people who are in need -[3213.16 --> 3214.16] Practice hospitality -[3215.16 --> 3217.16] Bless those who persecute you -[3218.16 --> 3219.16] Bless and do not curse -[3220.16 --> 3221.16] Rejoice with those who rejoice -[3221.16 --> 3223.16] Mourn with those who mourn -[3224.16 --> 3225.16] Live in harmony with one another -[3226.16 --> 3227.16] Do not be proud -[3228.16 --> 3230.16] But be willing to associate with people of low position -[3231.16 --> 3232.16] Do not be conceited -[3233.16 --> 3236.16] Do not repay anyone evil for evil -[3237.16 --> 3240.16] Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone -[3240.16 --> 3243.16] If it is possible, as far as it depends on you -[3244.16 --> 3246.16] Live at peace with everyone -[3247.16 --> 3249.16] Do not take revenge, my dear friends -[3250.16 --> 3251.16] But leave room for God's wrath -[3252.16 --> 3254.16] For it is written, it is mine to avenge -[3255.16 --> 3256.16] I will repay, says the Lord -[3257.16 --> 3260.16] On the contrary, if your enemy is hungry, feed him -[3261.16 --> 3263.16] If he is thirsty, give him something to drink -[3264.16 --> 3266.16] In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head -[3266.16 --> 3269.16] Do not be overcome by evil -[3270.16 --> 3273.16] But overcome evil with good -[3274.16 --> 3275.16] This is the word of the Lord -[3276.16 --> 3288.16] I debated this week if I was going to start this way -[3289.16 --> 3291.16] But I am sensing that we must -[3291.16 --> 3292.16] That we must -[3294.16 --> 3297.16] This chapter, I hope you will see -[3298.16 --> 3299.16] Paints a compelling picture -[3300.16 --> 3302.16] Of what it means to be part of the Christian community -[3303.16 --> 3305.16] What it means to belong to the church -[3306.16 --> 3307.16] To the body of Christ -[3308.16 --> 3309.16] But the reality is -[3310.16 --> 3312.16] That so many of us -[3313.16 --> 3315.16] Don't see that picture -[3316.16 --> 3319.16] Or don't start from that place of compelling comparison -[3319.16 --> 3325.16] And so I want to share a little bit of my own story -[3326.16 --> 3327.16] My own testimony -[3327.16 --> 3329.16] And some of you have heard bits and pieces of it -[3330.16 --> 3334.16] But my very first memory of church -[3335.16 --> 3337.16] Is from when I was five years old -[3338.16 --> 3340.16] So there is little Chris -[3341.16 --> 3343.16] Five years old, sitting beside his mom and dad -[3344.16 --> 3346.16] Who are not here today, so they don't know I am telling this story -[3346.16 --> 3348.16] But, and on the other side of my mom and dad -[3349.16 --> 3351.16] Are my grandpa and my grandma -[3352.16 --> 3353.16] And my grandfather -[3354.16 --> 3357.16] A stalwart man of faith -[3358.16 --> 3359.16] If ever there was one -[3360.16 --> 3361.16] He could be contrarian -[3362.16 --> 3363.16] We all knew that -[3364.16 --> 3367.16] But, that Sunday morning -[3368.16 --> 3369.16] And I remember this clearly -[3370.16 --> 3371.16] The pastor stood up in that church -[3372.16 --> 3373.16] Behind the pulpit -[3373.16 --> 3374.16] Behind the pulpit -[3375.16 --> 3377.16] And with all his bravado -[3378.16 --> 3379.16] Said -[3380.16 --> 3381.16] Harold Campin -[3382.16 --> 3383.16] That's my grandpa -[3384.16 --> 3386.16] Has disagreed with the decision of our church council -[3387.16 --> 3391.16] And has been kicked out of office -[3392.16 --> 3397.16] The church was going through some pretty hard times -[3398.16 --> 3399.16] This is the mid-80s -[3399.16 --> 3403.16] And there were some pretty significant conversations happening in that church -[3404.16 --> 3406.16] My grandfather didn't agree with the pastor -[3407.16 --> 3409.16] My grandfather was on council -[3410.16 --> 3412.16] And my grandfather was a man of integrity -[3413.16 --> 3414.16] And so he let the pastor know -[3415.16 --> 3418.16] The pastor didn't like that he was disagreed with -[3419.16 --> 3421.16] And so that Sunday he stood in the pulpit -[3422.16 --> 3423.16] And he called him out by name -[3424.16 --> 3426.16] And what I remember is my grandfather standing up -[3427.16 --> 3429.16] Nodding his head to the pastor -[3430.16 --> 3432.16] My grandmother standing up beside him -[3433.16 --> 3434.16] Weeping -[3435.16 --> 3436.16] And walking out of church -[3437.16 --> 3438.16] They never went back to that church -[3439.16 --> 3443.16] My first memory of church -[3444.16 --> 3446.16] Is an instance -[3447.16 --> 3448.16] Of pastoral abuse -[3448.16 --> 3449.16] My first memory of church -[3449.16 --> 3452.16] My first memory of church is not this compelling image of love being sincere -[3453.16 --> 3454.16] But a broken one -[3455.16 --> 3456.16] Fast forward three years -[3457.16 --> 3458.16] My second memory of church -[3459.16 --> 3460.16] We have now moved to churches as well -[3461.16 --> 3462.16] I'm in the cadet program at this church -[3463.16 --> 3465.16] So I'm eight years old -[3465.16 --> 3466.16] First year in cadets -[3466.16 --> 3467.16] First year in cadets -[3468.16 --> 3469.16] We're going to Alliston, Ontario -[3469.16 --> 3470.16] Where there's a Honda production facility -[3471.16 --> 3472.16] So a bunch of boys, 30, 40 of us -[3473.16 --> 3474.16] Being wrangled by seven or eight men -[3475.16 --> 3476.16] To go on this tour of the production line -[3477.16 --> 3478.16] At Honda -[3479.16 --> 3480.16] And so I'm in the cadet program -[3481.16 --> 3482.16] And so I'm in the cadet program -[3482.16 --> 3483.16] And so I'm in the cadet program at this church -[3484.16 --> 3485.16] So I'm in the cadet program at this church -[3486.16 --> 3487.16] So I'm eight years old -[3488.16 --> 3489.16] First year in cadets -[3490.16 --> 3491.16] We're going to Alliston, Ontario -[3491.16 --> 3494.16] To go on this tour of the production line -[3494.16 --> 3495.16] At Honda Alliston -[3496.16 --> 3498.16] As we were approaching the doors -[3498.16 --> 3499.16] The counselors there -[3499.16 --> 3500.16] One of them turned around -[3500.16 --> 3501.16] And said, okay boys -[3501.16 --> 3502.16] When we get in the building -[3503.16 --> 3504.16] Stop talking -[3504.16 --> 3505.16] Start listening -[3506.16 --> 3507.16] Before we got to the door -[3508.16 --> 3509.16] I hadn't yet walked in -[3510.16 --> 3511.16] I was still talking -[3511.16 --> 3512.16] The counselor turned around -[3512.16 --> 3513.16] And he smacked me across the face -[3514.16 --> 3519.16] My second memory of church -[3519.16 --> 3522.16] Is an instance of abuse -[3523.16 --> 3527.16] And so -[3528.16 --> 3529.16] In a moment -[3530.16 --> 3532.16] When we dig into this really beautiful picture -[3533.16 --> 3536.16] When we cast for us -[3537.16 --> 3538.16] What God has possible -[3539.16 --> 3540.16] And for us in display -[3541.16 --> 3543.16] Please don't hear that from me -[3544.16 --> 3545.16] With my head in the clouds -[3545.16 --> 3548.16] Or ignorant of the realities -[3549.16 --> 3550.16] That all of us in some way shape or form -[3551.16 --> 3552.16] Have faced and experienced -[3553.16 --> 3554.16] If you know my story -[3555.16 --> 3556.16] I took a long circuitous route -[3557.16 --> 3559.16] Back to an experience of faith and Jesus -[3560.16 --> 3561.16] In part because of those two images -[3562.16 --> 3563.16] No doubt -[3564.16 --> 3565.16] Those two stories -[3568.16 --> 3571.16] But it is my deep prayer this morning -[3571.16 --> 3574.16] That as we look at what is possible -[3575.16 --> 3578.16] As we look at what God has available for us -[3579.16 --> 3580.16] We would do so -[3581.16 --> 3583.16] With the reality of everything we have experienced -[3584.16 --> 3585.16] And the hurt that we bring -[3586.16 --> 3588.16] But also with hope for what's possible -[3589.16 --> 3592.16] Now my prayer continues -[3593.16 --> 3596.16] That what we will see -[3596.16 --> 3598.16] And what we have been seeing -[3599.16 --> 3600.16] These last few weeks together -[3601.16 --> 3602.16] Is that one of the things -[3603.16 --> 3605.16] That Christianity is all about -[3606.16 --> 3607.16] And I mean really about -[3608.16 --> 3610.16] Is redefining relationships -[3611.16 --> 3612.16] Right? Christianity is about -[3613.16 --> 3614.16] Redefining relationships -[3615.16 --> 3617.16] First, it's about redefining your relationship to God -[3618.16 --> 3619.16] In Christ Jesus -[3620.16 --> 3622.16] And then it's about redefining your relationships -[3622.16 --> 3623.16] To those people around you -[3623.16 --> 3624.16] Who are part of the body -[3625.16 --> 3626.16] For us here today -[3627.16 --> 3628.16] And then lastly -[3629.16 --> 3631.16] It's about redefining our relationships -[3632.16 --> 3633.16] To the world -[3634.16 --> 3636.16] And to those who do not yet know Christ -[3639.16 --> 3640.16] Now this idea -[3641.16 --> 3642.16] Right? This process -[3643.16 --> 3644.16] Builds off of what Pastor Kevin talked about -[3645.16 --> 3646.16] Last week about being part of the body -[3647.16 --> 3650.16] Right? Christianity at its core -[3650.16 --> 3653.16] Is a relational religion -[3654.16 --> 3657.16] Right? Everything that God has done in the world -[3658.16 --> 3659.16] Both in creating and redeeming it -[3660.16 --> 3664.16] Is to have relationship with his creatures -[3665.16 --> 3668.16] And that is because God is within himself -[3669.16 --> 3670.16] A relational God -[3671.16 --> 3674.16] Right? The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit -[3675.16 --> 3676.16] Have lived eternally together -[3676.16 --> 3679.16] In a relationship of mutual recognition -[3680.16 --> 3681.16] And support and submission -[3682.16 --> 3683.16] A relationship of self-giving love -[3684.16 --> 3686.16] A relationship of other-raising worship -[3687.16 --> 3689.16] And we now as created in his image -[3690.16 --> 3694.16] Are called to live into that inner Trinitarian union -[3695.16 --> 3696.16] That inner Trinitarian relationship -[3697.16 --> 3699.16] That's what redemption from sin is -[3700.16 --> 3701.16] When we talk about sin in the church -[3701.16 --> 3704.16] At root we are talking about a broken relationship -[3704.16 --> 3705.16] To God, our Creator -[3706.16 --> 3709.16] And the way that that affects everything else -[3710.16 --> 3713.16] Right? Sin is a destroying of a relationship to God -[3714.16 --> 3716.16] A breaking of a relationship to God -[3717.16 --> 3718.16] And redemption then -[3719.16 --> 3720.16] Is union with Christ -[3721.16 --> 3722.16] And in union with Christ -[3723.16 --> 3726.16] Being restored to that inner Trinitarian union -[3726.16 --> 3729.16] And fellowship that we were created to be part of -[3730.16 --> 3732.16] To image to the world -[3733.16 --> 3735.16] And in many ways -[3736.16 --> 3737.16] That first half of the book of Romans -[3738.16 --> 3744.16] Is about how we are restored to personal covenantal relationship to God -[3745.16 --> 3747.16] Right? Chapters 1 through 11 -[3748.16 --> 3749.16] It's important to note -[3750.16 --> 3753.16] Right? That this is about how we come back to God -[3753.16 --> 3756.16] By God coming down to us -[3757.16 --> 3761.16] And this relationship is personal and covenantal -[3762.16 --> 3766.16] Right? So covenantal relationships are always communal -[3767.16 --> 3770.16] And we saw that particularly in baptism this morning -[3771.16 --> 3772.16] Right? In Sadie's baptism -[3773.16 --> 3774.16] We mark her as a child of the covenant -[3775.16 --> 3776.16] And we, the community of faith -[3777.16 --> 3780.16] Both acknowledge that truth and welcome her into it -[3780.16 --> 3784.16] And we raise her up together as part of us -[3785.16 --> 3787.16] She needs us and we need her -[3788.16 --> 3791.16] And this redefining of relationship in the body -[3792.16 --> 3795.16] Is now where Paul picks up in Romans 12 -[3796.16 --> 3804.16] Right? Remember Romans 12 is following and is built upon the reality of Romans 1 through 11 -[3804.16 --> 3808.16] It's built upon the truth that we are justified -[3809.16 --> 3810.16] That we are saved -[3811.16 --> 3813.16] That salvation comes only by grace alone -[3814.16 --> 3815.16] Through faith alone in Christ alone -[3816.16 --> 3818.16] So that we are now no longer alone -[3819.16 --> 3820.16] Because of our union with Christ -[3821.16 --> 3822.16] And our relationship to God -[3823.16 --> 3824.16] And our communion with the body -[3825.16 --> 3826.16] With each other -[3827.16 --> 3829.16] Now in the section that we read -[3829.16 --> 3830.16] This morning -[3830.16 --> 3833.16] There are loosely two sections -[3834.16 --> 3836.16] And there's some overlapping and transitional words -[3837.16 --> 3839.16] But for the sake of our teaching this morning -[3840.16 --> 3841.16] There's two sections -[3842.16 --> 3844.16] The first section is verse 9 through 16 -[3845.16 --> 3849.16] And that refers primarily to relationships within the body -[3850.16 --> 3854.16] Relationships among the language that defines these two things together -[3854.16 --> 3855.16] Is among one another -[3856.16 --> 3858.16] You will see that repeated through those sections -[3859.16 --> 3860.16] One another -[3861.16 --> 3864.16] The second section is 17 to the end -[3865.16 --> 3868.16] And that generally is held together by the use of the phrase everyone -[3869.16 --> 3873.16] And refers to relationships outside of this body -[3874.16 --> 3875.16] Or to the relationships to the world -[3876.16 --> 3877.16] Now like I said these distinctions aren't perfect -[3878.16 --> 3880.16] But we're going to hold them -[3880.16 --> 3883.16] And recognize that even though they're porous -[3884.16 --> 3885.16] And there's some shifting -[3886.16 --> 3889.16] That's going to help us frame our discussion together this morning -[3890.16 --> 3892.16] And so track with me, right? -[3893.16 --> 3894.16] First is your relationship to God -[3895.16 --> 3896.16] That's the foundation of Romans 1-11 -[3897.16 --> 3900.16] That's summarized here at the beginning of chapter 12 -[3901.16 --> 3903.16] With the phrase, therefore, in view of God's mercy -[3904.16 --> 3907.16] Right? And then, out of that relationship with God -[3907.16 --> 3910.16] There are your relationships to others around you in the body -[3911.16 --> 3915.16] And then three, your relationships to everyone else -[3916.16 --> 3918.16] And so first, in the body -[3919.16 --> 3921.16] Paul starts by saying -[3922.16 --> 3924.16] Love must be sincere -[3925.16 --> 3927.16] Hate what is evil -[3928.16 --> 3930.16] Cling to what is good -[3931.16 --> 3934.16] First we're told that love must be sincere -[3934.16 --> 3936.16] Now literally in the Greek -[3937.16 --> 3938.16] The original language this was written in -[3939.16 --> 3942.16] It says, love unhypocritically -[3943.16 --> 3945.16] Now one of the challenges of this verse -[3946.16 --> 3948.16] Is that loving unhypocritically -[3949.16 --> 3952.16] At least to me, seems really hard to do -[3953.16 --> 3954.16] Maybe even impossible -[3955.16 --> 3956.16] In fact, right? -[3957.16 --> 3958.16] One of the biggest criticisms -[3959.16 --> 3961.16] And the most regularly lobbed criticisms -[3961.16 --> 3963.16] Towards Christians -[3964.16 --> 3965.16] Is that we are hypocrites -[3966.16 --> 3967.16] Right? -[3968.16 --> 3969.16] We preach love -[3970.16 --> 3973.16] And yet, we call out an individual by name -[3974.16 --> 3975.16] When they disagree with us -[3976.16 --> 3978.16] We preach honor and respect -[3979.16 --> 3981.16] And yet, we smack a kid -[3982.16 --> 3983.16] When he doesn't listen -[3983.16 --> 3984.16] As you're going into the Honda plant -[3984.16 --> 3985.16] We preach obedience to Christ -[3985.16 --> 3986.16] And we act disobediently -[3987.16 --> 3988.16] We profess to be content -[3989.16 --> 3990.16] Whatever the circumstances -[3991.16 --> 3993.16] And yet, our anxieties and our idolatries -[3994.16 --> 3997.16] Are just as prevalent and high as everyone else's -[3998.16 --> 4002.16] It's easy to become a Pharisee -[4003.16 --> 4006.16] And if you know what I mean when I say that -[4007.16 --> 4009.16] You're in danger of becoming a Pharisee -[4009.16 --> 4011.16] Because that's the reality -[4012.16 --> 4013.16] For those of us who are familiar -[4014.16 --> 4018.16] With this way of being in the world -[4019.16 --> 4022.16] Now let me hear it -[4023.16 --> 4024.16] Let me say it very clearly -[4025.16 --> 4026.16] I am a hypocrite -[4027.16 --> 4029.16] Or let me put it more accurately -[4030.16 --> 4031.16] I act hypocritically -[4032.16 --> 4034.16] But by the grace of God -[4035.16 --> 4036.16] I am not a hypocrite -[4036.16 --> 4038.16] At least not any longer -[4039.16 --> 4041.16] I'm no longer defined by my hypocrisy -[4042.16 --> 4043.16] Right? It's still there -[4043.16 --> 4044.16] It's still part of me -[4044.16 --> 4045.16] And I'm waging war against it -[4046.16 --> 4047.16] But by the grace of God -[4048.16 --> 4049.16] Right? That ought to be the difference -[4050.16 --> 4052.16] For all of us who profess to believe -[4053.16 --> 4055.16] Yes, we still act hypocritically -[4056.16 --> 4059.16] But we're trying -[4060.16 --> 4061.16] By the grace of God -[4062.16 --> 4063.16] To be transformed -[4063.16 --> 4064.16] And so then -[4064.16 --> 4065.16] What does it mean -[4065.16 --> 4067.16] To love unhypocritically? -[4069.16 --> 4070.16] I think the best way to put this -[4071.16 --> 4072.16] And to understand it -[4072.16 --> 4073.16] Is to love genuinely -[4074.16 --> 4075.16] Or authentically -[4076.16 --> 4077.16] And even as I say that -[4077.16 --> 4078.16] I know some of you are like -[4079.16 --> 4080.16] I hate those words -[4081.16 --> 4082.16] Right? Like they're buzz words -[4083.16 --> 4084.16] What does that even mean? -[4084.16 --> 4085.16] And so let me give you an example -[4086.16 --> 4088.16] To love unhypocritically -[4089.16 --> 4091.16] Means that when I have a conversation -[4091.16 --> 4092.16] With someone -[4092.16 --> 4094.16] They walk away from that conversation -[4095.16 --> 4096.16] Feeling like they got the real me -[4097.16 --> 4099.16] Like I wasn't wearing a mask -[4100.16 --> 4102.16] Like I wasn't putting my best self forward -[4103.16 --> 4104.16] Or like I wasn't holding things back -[4105.16 --> 4106.16] That I truly genuinely believe -[4107.16 --> 4108.16] But I'm compromising on -[4109.16 --> 4110.16] Because I'm risking the -[4111.16 --> 4112.16] I'm at risk of the relationship -[4113.16 --> 4114.16] Right? When someone engages with me -[4114.16 --> 4116.16] I want them to walk away -[4117.16 --> 4119.16] Feeling like they were seen by me -[4120.16 --> 4123.16] Right? All of who you are -[4124.16 --> 4127.16] Even as we lay ourselves open -[4128.16 --> 4129.16] And honestly bare before each other -[4130.16 --> 4131.16] I want there to be a sense of safety -[4132.16 --> 4133.16] In the midst of that -[4134.16 --> 4135.16] Even as we talk about things -[4136.16 --> 4137.16] That make us uncomfortable -[4138.16 --> 4139.16] Even as I ask you hard questions -[4140.16 --> 4141.16] Or you ask me hard questions -[4141.16 --> 4142.16] I want you to leave going -[4142.16 --> 4143.16] You know what? -[4143.16 --> 4145.16] I think he really is for me -[4146.16 --> 4148.16] I think that's what it means to love -[4149.16 --> 4150.16] Unhypocritically -[4151.16 --> 4153.16] And I'm going to stress this point to you -[4154.16 --> 4156.16] Because it's really easy in our churches -[4157.16 --> 4158.16] And in our Christian communities -[4159.16 --> 4160.16] For there to be a sense -[4161.16 --> 4162.16] Or a veneer that develops -[4163.16 --> 4165.16] Right? A cover over the reality -[4165.16 --> 4168.16] Sometimes we present our best selves to each other -[4169.16 --> 4172.16] And we hide the truth of who we are -[4173.16 --> 4175.16] Sometimes in churches -[4176.16 --> 4177.16] Right? There's a culture of niceness -[4178.16 --> 4179.16] Or politeness that develops -[4180.16 --> 4181.16] That actually becomes a wall -[4182.16 --> 4183.16] Or a barrier around the truth of our hearts -[4184.16 --> 4185.16] And the struggles of our circumstances -[4186.16 --> 4188.16] And we pretend to be okay -[4189.16 --> 4192.16] Because risking being vulnerable is just too much -[4192.16 --> 4196.16] And again, remember my story from the beginning -[4197.16 --> 4200.16] To be fair, some of us have been burned by the church -[4201.16 --> 4203.16] Have been burned by being vulnerable -[4208.16 --> 4209.16] Sometimes -[4210.16 --> 4213.16] We are really good at being pleasant to someone's face -[4214.16 --> 4215.16] And then venomous -[4216.16 --> 4218.16] In the other corner of the foyer -[4219.16 --> 4220.16] With our gossip -[4220.16 --> 4225.16] An unhypocritical love -[4226.16 --> 4227.16] A sincere love -[4228.16 --> 4230.16] Calls us to be vulnerable -[4231.16 --> 4233.16] It's risky -[4234.16 --> 4235.16] You better believe it -[4235.16 --> 4236.16] It's risky -[4236.16 --> 4237.16] But when you experience it -[4238.16 --> 4239.16] Oh my goodness -[4240.16 --> 4241.16] It is good -[4242.16 --> 4244.16] It is so good -[4245.16 --> 4246.16] And not only then -[4247.16 --> 4248.16] Must we love unhypocritically -[4248.16 --> 4249.16] But -[4249.16 --> 4250.16] Paul continues -[4251.16 --> 4252.16] One of the ways we do that -[4252.16 --> 4253.16] Is by hating what is evil -[4254.16 --> 4256.16] And clinging to what is good -[4257.16 --> 4260.16] And this is a really important thing for us to hear -[4261.16 --> 4262.16] Because often times -[4263.16 --> 4265.16] Love in our world today -[4266.16 --> 4270.16] Is characterized as just affirming everything about everyone -[4271.16 --> 4274.16] And let me be really, really clear here -[4274.16 --> 4275.16] That's not real love -[4276.16 --> 4277.16] That's not real love -[4278.16 --> 4279.16] Right? -[4279.16 --> 4280.16] Real love requires that we hate -[4281.16 --> 4285.16] That we are horrified by what God calls evil -[4286.16 --> 4290.16] Real love calls us to cling to what is good -[4291.16 --> 4294.16] And look, there is a temptation that when you love someone -[4294.16 --> 4295.16] Right? -[4295.16 --> 4297.16] You want to just give them what makes them feel happy -[4297.16 --> 4300.16] You want to feed or fill their emotional joy -[4301.16 --> 4303.16] Rather than give them what's best -[4304.16 --> 4308.16] And in part, that's because it's easier -[4309.16 --> 4310.16] Right? -[4310.16 --> 4311.16] It keeps the peace in our relationship -[4312.16 --> 4315.16] But also because like we genuinely do want them to feel best -[4316.16 --> 4317.16] Right? -[4317.16 --> 4318.16] We should -[4319.16 --> 4320.16] But here's the thing, right? -[4320.16 --> 4321.16] True love -[4322.16 --> 4325.16] Is built upon the truth of God's word -[4326.16 --> 4329.16] And God's word reveals how we were designed to live -[4330.16 --> 4331.16] And the truth is then -[4332.16 --> 4335.16] That God himself gets to define love -[4336.16 --> 4337.16] Right? -[4337.16 --> 4338.16] When we say God is love -[4339.16 --> 4341.16] Part of what that means is he gets to tell us what real love is -[4342.16 --> 4346.16] And it's our best response to listen first -[4348.16 --> 4351.16] Right? To disobey God's design for our life together -[4352.16 --> 4355.16] Is always going to be bad for the people we love -[4356.16 --> 4359.16] Real love is concerned for the truth -[4360.16 --> 4364.16] And any love that is unwilling to confront a lie -[4365.16 --> 4366.16] Is not real love -[4367.16 --> 4369.16] But instead, I'm going to name it as a selfish desire to keep the peace -[4370.16 --> 4371.16] Because it's easier -[4371.16 --> 4372.16] Because it's easier -[4375.16 --> 4379.16] But when you see someone who's hurting because of the choices they're making -[4380.16 --> 4382.16] Real love requires you to confront them -[4384.16 --> 4390.16] Now, if you do, remember, you act hypocritically -[4390.16 --> 4391.16] And so confront them -[4392.16 --> 4393.16] Out of your own sincerity -[4394.16 --> 4402.16] Confront them out of your own journey into truth -[4403.16 --> 4406.16] And also, I want to name this point -[4407.16 --> 4408.16] Because it's important to pause -[4409.16 --> 4411.16] And to remember that what we are talking about here -[4412.16 --> 4414.16] Is relationships within the body -[4414.16 --> 4418.16] We're talking about Christian to Christian here -[4419.16 --> 4423.16] Right? This isn't a call for you to go out to your unbelieving friends -[4424.16 --> 4428.16] And point out the truth of the untruth of their lives -[4429.16 --> 4432.16] Right? This isn't a call for you to go stand on a soapbox somewhere -[4432.16 --> 4434.16] And expect unbelieving people -[4435.16 --> 4436.16] Unconverted to Christ people -[4437.16 --> 4439.16] To behave like converted to Christ people -[4440.16 --> 4441.16] They're two different things -[4442.16 --> 4443.16] Two different categories -[4444.16 --> 4450.16] Right? We need the Holy Spirit to make us able to live as God has called us to live -[4451.16 --> 4455.16] And so this part of the conversation is body member to body member -[4456.16 --> 4457.16] Christian to Christian -[4457.16 --> 4465.16] All of this presumes a profession of faith based and in response to the grace of God given -[4472.16 --> 4474.16] Paul continues talking to the body -[4475.16 --> 4478.16] And he says, be devoted to one another in love -[4479.16 --> 4480.16] Honor one another above yourselves -[4481.16 --> 4485.16] This is the foundation of humility that shapes the body that Pastor Kevin talked about -[4485.16 --> 4489.16] And that we continue to talking about in our podcast this past week -[4490.16 --> 4493.16] Shameless plug available every Wednesday at 5 a.m. -[4494.16 --> 4495.16] Welcome to the narthex -[4496.16 --> 4500.16] That foundation of humility leads into the body -[4501.16 --> 4504.16] And then Paul goes, never be lacking in zeal -[4505.16 --> 4507.16] But keep your spiritual fervor serving the Lord -[4508.16 --> 4512.16] Literally there in Greek it says, be set on fire by the Spirit -[4512.16 --> 4518.16] And I think what that means is that Christians ought to be a people of passion -[4519.16 --> 4521.16] Right? I will never understand the Christian -[4522.16 --> 4524.16] And I'm going to be honest, it's usually a man, right? -[4525.16 --> 4526.16] Who is stoic -[4527.16 --> 4528.16] And borderline slightly angry all the time -[4529.16 --> 4531.16] Keeping their hands firmly placed in their pockets -[4532.16 --> 4534.16] While the people around them are singing with joy on their faces -[4535.16 --> 4537.16] Right? Or when the preacher is up at the front -[4537.16 --> 4539.16] Sitting back with their arms crossed -[4540.16 --> 4541.16] Like, no, you haven't won me over yet -[4542.16 --> 4543.16] I saw a few of you uncross your arms right there -[4544.16 --> 4545.16] Yup -[4548.16 --> 4549.16] Where is your zeal? -[4550.16 --> 4552.16] And let me be really clear -[4553.16 --> 4556.16] When I say zeal, I don't mean happy, clappy, and excited -[4557.16 --> 4558.16] Right? I'm not asking everyone to look the same -[4559.16 --> 4562.16] And to paint the same brush in our worshiping life -[4562.16 --> 4567.16] What I'm saying is, right? Your zeal means you need to have a real relationship to God -[4568.16 --> 4569.16] And to the body -[4570.16 --> 4572.16] Right? Don't settle for anything less than what's real -[4573.16 --> 4577.16] And let's be honest too, right? Without a real relationship -[4578.16 --> 4579.16] All of this is meaningless -[4582.16 --> 4584.16] And I think we can say pretty confidently on the truth of the Bible -[4584.16 --> 4587.16] That without a real relationship to God and to the body -[4588.16 --> 4591.16] All of life, in fact, is meaningless -[4592.16 --> 4594.16] And what I mean by that is that it's fleeting -[4595.16 --> 4596.16] It's a chasing after the wind -[4597.16 --> 4598.16] It's a grasping after breath -[4599.16 --> 4600.16] And the moment you finally lay hold to something -[4601.16 --> 4603.16] You open your hands to look at it and you realize that it's gone -[4604.16 --> 4606.16] And that it wasn't worth what you thought it was -[4607.16 --> 4610.16] And it didn't satisfy in the way that you hoped it would -[4610.16 --> 4612.16] Instead -[4613.16 --> 4615.16] Be joyful in hope -[4616.16 --> 4618.16] Patient in affliction -[4619.16 --> 4620.16] And faithful in prayer -[4621.16 --> 4623.16] Share with the Lord's people who are in need -[4624.16 --> 4625.16] Practice hospitality -[4628.16 --> 4633.16] Now, I want to pause for a second -[4634.16 --> 4636.16] And I want to ask you to dig deep -[4636.16 --> 4641.16] There's a thing going on in this text that I think is absolutely fascinating -[4642.16 --> 4645.16] And I hope I can communicate it well enough so that you can see it -[4646.16 --> 4650.16] But on this phrase, practice hospitality -[4651.16 --> 4654.16] And so let's dig here for just a moment -[4655.16 --> 4659.16] The word translated practice means something more like pursue -[4660.16 --> 4663.16] Or it means to honestly and earnestly endeavor -[4663.16 --> 4664.16] Ever -[4665.16 --> 4667.16] Right? And so sometimes you will hear people talking about -[4668.16 --> 4669.16] The gift of hospitality -[4670.16 --> 4672.16] Right? And what we mean by that usually -[4673.16 --> 4674.16] Is that there are people who are just good at it -[4675.16 --> 4677.16] Right? Who seem to love hosting -[4678.16 --> 4680.16] Who seem to love cooking for people -[4681.16 --> 4683.16] And sharing with them is their love language -[4684.16 --> 4687.16] In fact, I love cooking for people -[4687.16 --> 4692.16] I love preparing elaborate and exorbitant meals for people -[4693.16 --> 4696.16] But I want to be really clear -[4697.16 --> 4700.16] Because who is Paul talking to in this text? -[4701.16 --> 4706.16] Because it's not the quote, gift of hospitality people -[4707.16 --> 4712.16] In fact, hospitality isn't even a gift -[4712.16 --> 4717.16] Right? It's not in any of the gift lists in Scripture -[4718.16 --> 4720.16] Right? There's gift lists here in Romans 12 -[4721.16 --> 4722.16] Kevin read them last week -[4723.16 --> 4724.16] They include things like prophesying and serving -[4725.16 --> 4727.16] Teaching, encouraging, giving, leading, and showing mercy -[4728.16 --> 4730.16] There's another gift list in 1 Corinthians 12 -[4731.16 --> 4732.16] Where Paul adds to that list -[4733.16 --> 4735.16] Gifts of wisdom and knowledge, faith, miraculous powers -[4736.16 --> 4738.16] Gifts of healing, identifying spirits -[4738.16 --> 4740.16] Gift of tongues and the gift of interpreting tongues -[4741.16 --> 4742.16] Which are two different things -[4743.16 --> 4744.16] In verse 28 of that chapter -[4744.16 --> 4746.16] He adds the gift of helping and of guidance -[4747.16 --> 4748.16] Now that last one -[4748.16 --> 4750.16] That seems to be about administration -[4751.16 --> 4754.16] And organizational gifts for the running of a church community -[4755.16 --> 4759.16] But in all of those places where we get gift lists in Scripture -[4760.16 --> 4763.16] Can I tell you what's conspicuously absent? -[4764.16 --> 4765.16] Hospitality -[4765.16 --> 4766.16] Hospitality -[4767.16 --> 4770.16] And I think that's why it says we have to pursue it -[4771.16 --> 4774.16] Right? We have to earnestly run after it -[4775.16 --> 4776.16] We have to run it down -[4777.16 --> 4780.16] Even when it's not part of our natural way of being in the world -[4781.16 --> 4784.16] And I think the reason why that is the case -[4785.16 --> 4787.16] And this is what I want you to see and dig deep into with me -[4788.16 --> 4791.16] If you have a Bible in front of you -[4791.16 --> 4794.16] This is a good time to look but it will be on the screen there -[4795.16 --> 4796.16] Although if you have a Bible in front of you -[4797.16 --> 4798.16] I'm going to be honest with you, it's not going to help you -[4798.16 --> 4800.16] Because you would never see this in your English translation -[4801.16 --> 4806.16] This little paragraph uses four different words for love -[4807.16 --> 4809.16] To describe the way the body interacts together -[4810.16 --> 4814.16] The first word for love that is used is in verse 9 -[4814.16 --> 4816.16] Love must be sincere -[4817.16 --> 4818.16] That's agape -[4819.16 --> 4820.16] Right? -[4820.16 --> 4823.16] That's the word for love there is agape -[4824.16 --> 4826.16] That's the same word that Paul uses to describe -[4827.16 --> 4829.16] The love agape of Christ -[4830.16 --> 4832.16] In Romans 8 verse 35 -[4833.16 --> 4834.16] And following he says -[4834.16 --> 4838.16] Who shall separate us from the love agape of Christ -[4839.16 --> 4840.16] And then he continues -[4841.16 --> 4843.16] Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword -[4844.16 --> 4845.16] He goes on -[4846.16 --> 4848.16] For I am convinced that neither death nor life -[4849.16 --> 4850.16] Neither angels nor demons -[4850.16 --> 4851.16] Neither the present nor the future -[4852.16 --> 4854.16] Nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else -[4855.16 --> 4856.16] In all of creation -[4857.16 --> 4860.16] Will be able to separate us from the love agape of God -[4860.16 --> 4863.16] That is in Christ Jesus our Lord -[4864.16 --> 4867.16] Right? It's the same word that Paul uses in Romans 5 verse 8 -[4867.16 --> 4872.16] When he says God demonstrates his own agape for us in this -[4873.16 --> 4876.16] While we were still sinners, Christ died for us -[4877.16 --> 4880.16] So sincere love in the body -[4881.16 --> 4885.16] Is a reflection of the love of God in Jesus Christ -[4886.16 --> 4889.16] For us spilling over through us to the body -[4890.16 --> 4892.16] That's the first word -[4893.16 --> 4895.16] The second word is in verse 10 -[4896.16 --> 4899.16] It says be devoted to one another in love -[4900.16 --> 4901.16] Now did you see it? -[4902.16 --> 4904.16] Now I bet you didn't -[4905.16 --> 4906.16] Because it's not actually the phrase in love -[4909.16 --> 4911.16] The word translated be devoted -[4912.16 --> 4914.16] Is Philadelphia -[4915.16 --> 4917.16] That's the compound of the word philos -[4917.16 --> 4918.16] Which means love -[4918.16 --> 4919.16] And adelphoi -[4920.16 --> 4921.16] Which means brothers -[4921.16 --> 4922.16] Love of brothers -[4922.16 --> 4923.16] Or brotherly love -[4923.16 --> 4925.16] That's why the city of Philadelphia -[4926.16 --> 4927.16] Is called the city of brotherly love -[4928.16 --> 4929.16] Because that's what the word means -[4930.16 --> 4933.16] And so because of the agape love of Jesus -[4934.16 --> 4936.16] We are made into brothers -[4937.16 --> 4938.16] Right? First me to him -[4939.16 --> 4940.16] And then you to him -[4941.16 --> 4944.16] And then me to you -[4944.16 --> 4946.16] And you to each other -[4947.16 --> 4950.16] The body that Kevin talked about last week -[4951.16 --> 4952.16] Is also called a family -[4953.16 --> 4956.16] And remember this is back in Romans 8 again -[4957.16 --> 4958.16] In verse 14 -[4959.16 --> 4960.16] And following -[4960.16 --> 4961.16] Where Paul writes -[4961.16 --> 4963.16] For those who are led by the Spirit of God -[4963.16 --> 4964.16] Are children of God -[4965.16 --> 4966.16] And the Spirit you received -[4966.16 --> 4968.16] Brought about your adoption to sonship -[4969.16 --> 4970.16] And by him we cry -[4971.16 --> 4972.16] Abba, Father -[4973.16 --> 4974.16] The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit -[4975.16 --> 4976.16] That we are God's children -[4977.16 --> 4978.16] Now if we are children -[4978.16 --> 4979.16] Then we are heirs -[4979.16 --> 4980.16] Heirs of God -[4980.16 --> 4982.16] And co-heirs with Christ -[4983.16 --> 4984.16] You see what's happening -[4985.16 --> 4988.16] Agape love makes us brotherly love -[4988.16 --> 4993.16] Right? Agape love makes us to be devoted to one another -[4994.16 --> 4995.16] And then Paul continues in verse 10 -[4996.16 --> 4997.16] He finishes and says in love -[4998.16 --> 4999.16] Be devoted to one another in love -[5000.16 --> 5001.16] Now we can pick up that word in love -[5002.16 --> 5004.16] But that's also another unique word -[5005.16 --> 5006.16] Right? In the New Testament -[5007.16 --> 5008.16] That word is -[5009.16 --> 5010.16] Philos storgoi -[5011.16 --> 5012.16] Philos meaning love -[5013.16 --> 5015.16] Storgoi meaning love of family -[5015.16 --> 5017.16] Right? Another compound -[5018.16 --> 5019.16] It's a natural affection -[5019.16 --> 5020.16] A family affection -[5021.16 --> 5022.16] Like a mother for her child -[5025.16 --> 5026.16] Now that means there's probably -[5027.16 --> 5030.16] A sort of ferocity and ferocity to it -[5031.16 --> 5034.16] Or think of a mother lion protecting her cubs -[5036.16 --> 5039.16] Our new natural familial affection -[5040.16 --> 5042.16] Is devoted to brotherly affection -[5042.16 --> 5044.16] Because of the affections of Jesus -[5045.16 --> 5046.16] For his bride -[5047.16 --> 5049.16] Which is the third metaphor that the Bible uses for the church -[5050.16 --> 5052.16] A body, a family, and a bride -[5053.16 --> 5055.16] But it doesn't end there -[5058.16 --> 5060.16] Verse 13 uses one more word for love -[5061.16 --> 5063.16] It says, share with the Lord's people who are in need -[5064.16 --> 5067.16] Practice or pursue, as we've said, hospitality -[5067.16 --> 5069.16] Now look at that sentence -[5070.16 --> 5071.16] What word do you think it is? -[5072.16 --> 5073.16] Hospitality -[5074.16 --> 5075.16] Hospitality -[5078.16 --> 5081.16] Hospitality is the fourth type of love used -[5082.16 --> 5086.16] Right? It's used only here and in Hebrews 13 verse 2 -[5087.16 --> 5091.16] And the word translated hospitality literally means love of stranger -[5091.16 --> 5096.16] Philos, love, xenos, stranger -[5097.16 --> 5101.16] Now this is the opposite of a word you might be more familiar with -[5102.16 --> 5104.16] You might have heard the word xenophobia -[5105.16 --> 5107.16] Right? Xenophobia literally means fear of strangers -[5108.16 --> 5112.16] We use it to mean a prejudice against people from other countries -[5113.16 --> 5115.16] And it's usually connected to racism -[5115.16 --> 5122.16] The Bible says that you, body, do the opposite of that -[5123.16 --> 5124.16] You love strangers -[5125.16 --> 5127.16] That's what hospitality in the church is -[5128.16 --> 5131.16] Right? Hospitality is loving strangers into family -[5132.16 --> 5133.16] Because of the love of Christ -[5134.16 --> 5137.16] Right? That's what these stacking of four words gets us to -[5138.16 --> 5142.16] Loving strangers into family, loved brothers and sisters -[5142.16 --> 5145.16] Because of Jesus' love -[5146.16 --> 5147.16] That's how the church grows -[5148.16 --> 5152.16] Hospitality is literally strangers becoming brothers and sisters -[5153.16 --> 5154.16] Because of Christ -[5155.16 --> 5156.16] And we're all supposed to pursue it -[5157.16 --> 5158.16] Every one of us, it's on all of us -[5159.16 --> 5160.16] As part of our purpose and mission here -[5161.16 --> 5162.16] And when I look out at you -[5163.16 --> 5165.16] I see a whole bunch of strangers -[5166.16 --> 5169.16] Who have become brothers and sisters to me -[5169.16 --> 5170.16] When I look out at you -[5172.16 --> 5177.16] I see people who are in the journey of moving from stranger to beloved family member -[5178.16 --> 5182.16] And there's something beautiful and compelling about a group of people -[5183.16 --> 5187.16] Who then in this journey rejoice with those who rejoice -[5188.16 --> 5191.16] Who in this journey of moving from stranger to brother or sister -[5192.16 --> 5193.16] Mourn with those who mourn -[5193.16 --> 5195.16] There's something compelling about a community -[5196.16 --> 5203.16] Where the chief virtue for leadership is a willingness to serve even the lowest among us -[5206.16 --> 5209.16] Christianity is all about redefining relationships -[5210.16 --> 5214.16] Relationships to God and relationships to each other as new families -[5215.16 --> 5218.16] Strangers made brothers and sisters because of Jesus -[5218.16 --> 5224.16] And as all of that is true -[5225.16 --> 5229.16] It changes our relationships to the world around us -[5230.16 --> 5239.16] Now, for those of you who are looking at your phones to see what time it is -[5240.16 --> 5242.16] Don't worry, the second half is much shorter than the first half -[5242.16 --> 5247.16] But here's what I want you to see from this section -[5248.16 --> 5251.16] In your relationships to the world -[5252.16 --> 5257.16] In your relationships to people who are not yet converted to Christ -[5258.16 --> 5263.16] Know that you are not responsible for how they behave -[5264.16 --> 5270.16] But don't think that's a get out of jail free card -[5270.16 --> 5275.16] Because you are responsible for how you carry yourself -[5276.16 --> 5280.16] How you hold yourself in the face of their behavior -[5281.16 --> 5284.16] Whatever it is, whether it's evil or persecution -[5285.16 --> 5288.16] Be careful, Paul says, to do what is right in the eyes of everyone -[5289.16 --> 5291.16] As far as it depends on you -[5292.16 --> 5293.16] Live at peace with everyone -[5294.16 --> 5296.16] Here's a hard truth for some of you -[5296.16 --> 5298.16] You cannot change the people around you -[5299.16 --> 5305.16] And to have expectations of the people around you who are not Christian -[5306.16 --> 5308.16] To behave Christianly is impossible for them -[5309.16 --> 5319.16] But you must have the expectation on yourself to behave Christianly in front of them -[5319.16 --> 5324.16] And only the Holy Spirit can change hearts and minds -[5325.16 --> 5334.16] But we also know that the Holy Spirit uses our lives to transform those same hearts and minds for Christ -[5335.16 --> 5340.16] And so do your utmost to be a willing and useful tool to the Holy Spirit -[5340.16 --> 5344.16] Much rather he works with you than in spite of you -[5345.16 --> 5346.16] Amen? -[5347.16 --> 5350.16] This is part of what it means when Paul says -[5351.16 --> 5355.16] Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good -[5356.16 --> 5358.16] And if your enemy is hungry -[5359.16 --> 5360.16] Give him something to eat -[5360.16 --> 5361.16] If he's thirsty -[5361.16 --> 5362.16] Give him something to drink -[5363.16 --> 5366.16] Or I'll put it a little bit more close to home for myself -[5367.16 --> 5369.16] If he's the angry neighbor next door -[5370.16 --> 5372.16] Who complains all the time about the bush on your property line -[5373.16 --> 5374.16] That seems to infringe on his side -[5375.16 --> 5376.16] Offer to pray for him -[5377.16 --> 5379.16] When he tells you that he's been having a rough year -[5380.16 --> 5382.16] After a cancer diagnosis and treatment -[5383.16 --> 5384.16] And he says, oh, but I'm not a prayer -[5385.16 --> 5387.16] I said, that's okay, you don't have to be, I am -[5387.16 --> 5393.16] And maybe he'll show up the next day with a gift of thanks -[5394.16 --> 5396.16] And that relationship has changed -[5397.16 --> 5398.16] All of a sudden -[5399.16 --> 5401.16] Now it's not about the gift, let me be really clear -[5402.16 --> 5403.16] But there's an impact on behavior -[5404.16 --> 5407.16] When I choose to be faithful, even when it's awkward -[5408.16 --> 5410.16] Even when it's hard, even when it's weird -[5411.16 --> 5415.16] That's part, I believe, of what Paul is getting at when he quotes Proverbs 25 -[5415.16 --> 5419.16] Right, you're doing good to those who do evil to you -[5419.16 --> 5420.16] Or who treat you poorly -[5421.16 --> 5423.16] You're loving them because Christ first loved you -[5424.16 --> 5429.16] Can be used by God to lead to their repentance and their profession of faith in God -[5430.16 --> 5434.16] Your relationship to God and to each other and to the world -[5435.16 --> 5438.16] Is used by God to restore people in relationship to him -[5438.16 --> 5441.16] And so we've come full circle, haven't we? -[5442.16 --> 5445.16] Your real and personal relationship to God -[5446.16 --> 5447.16] Changes your relationships to other Christians -[5448.16 --> 5449.16] Making them like family -[5450.16 --> 5453.16] Brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus -[5454.16 --> 5456.16] Strangers into family -[5457.16 --> 5461.16] That's a miracle that keeps on happening in the world today -[5461.16 --> 5465.16] And your relationship to God, your relationship to the body -[5466.16 --> 5469.16] Changes how you have relationships in the world -[5470.16 --> 5474.16] It changes your posture into service and humility -[5478.16 --> 5480.16] And yes, and amen -[5481.16 --> 5484.16] Of course it is true that only God changes the world -[5484.16 --> 5487.16] And He does that through you and through me -[5488.16 --> 5489.16] And so as we go today -[5490.16 --> 5494.16] Will you be part of painting this picture of God's people? -[5495.16 --> 5499.16] Will you be part of painting this picture of God's people? -[5500.16 --> 5511.16] Will you be part of God using your life and your relationship to him and to others to draw people to himself? -[5511.16 --> 5513.16] And that through you and to himself -[5514.16 --> 5516.16] I have seen it among you -[5517.16 --> 5521.16] And again, I see some of you sitting here -[5522.16 --> 5523.16] Precisely because this is your story -[5524.16 --> 5526.16] And for that I praise God -[5527.16 --> 5529.16] For that I give Him thanks -[5530.16 --> 5532.16] And for that I say amen -[5533.16 --> 5534.16] Let's pray together -[5537.16 --> 5538.16] Holy God -[5538.16 --> 5544.66] Holy God, you are so amazing among us. -[5545.68 --> 5549.32] Even as you restore us to relationships with you, -[5549.48 --> 5553.34] send us out now step by step to walk with you. -[5554.00 --> 5557.24] Send us out now step by step to walk with each other. -[5558.34 --> 5563.26] Send us out now step by step that we might declare your praises. -[5563.26 --> 5567.90] And that in so declaring your praises, Lord God, -[5568.08 --> 5577.34] that others may come to see and know that you are good and that you are God. -[5578.66 --> 5585.72] Fill us to overflowing, that as we spill out, it might be your love that guides our steps. -[5586.36 --> 5588.86] In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. -[5593.26 --> 5607.28] Let's stand together. -[5623.26 --> 5625.26] Amen. -[5625.26 --> 5626.26] Amen. -[5653.26 --> 5660.10] And I will leave him for me, and I will learn to walk in your ways. -[5661.88 --> 5671.56] Step by step you'll lead me, and I will follow you all on my days. -[5672.84 --> 5681.60] Oh God, you are my God, and I will praise you. -[5681.60 --> 5691.56] Oh God, you are my God, and I will never praise you. -[5692.54 --> 5702.64] I will seek you in the morning, and I will learn to walk in your ways. -[5702.64 --> 5711.54] Then step by step you'll be here, and I will follow you all the Friday. -[5724.38 --> 5732.30] As we go into this week, we go with the blessing of God, and you go right now with two invitations. -[5732.64 --> 5740.66] First, following our worship, we have a time of gathering and fellowship at the back, and so please stick around for that. -[5740.66 --> 5745.86] Assuming everything worked well, there's coffee and refreshments available to you. -[5746.04 --> 5752.62] But more importantly, there's brothers and sisters who want to be present with you together. -[5753.52 --> 5757.78] Second invitation, there is people available for prayer. -[5758.38 --> 5761.02] One of them has a yellow name tag on. -[5761.02 --> 5765.84] That's Dick, who was already up, although he did say he is also on coffee service. -[5765.94 --> 5770.30] And so if you need prayer, go to the kitchen, and he'll pray with you there while making coffee. -[5771.28 --> 5772.08] Right, Dick? -[5772.68 --> 5773.58] There it is. -[5775.58 --> 5778.52] Go with the blessing of God. -[5778.52 --> 5782.56] God, go before you to lead you. -[5783.22 --> 5785.04] God, go behind you to protect you. -[5785.38 --> 5787.28] God, go beneath you to support you. -[5787.62 --> 5791.90] And God, go beside you to befriend you and make you a brother. -[5792.80 --> 5794.02] Do not be afraid. -[5794.46 --> 5796.42] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5796.56 --> 5802.32] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5802.32 --> 5803.86] Amen. -[5803.86 --> 5805.86] Amen. -[5833.86 --> 5840.86] I want your trust in you, and in all I'm doing in water and water. -[5842.86 --> 5850.86] Oh, I love you, breathe in my deep air. -[5850.86 --> 5860.86] You are faithful, through the ages you never change. -[5863.86 --> 5871.86] But though I live in the dark of night, set up here to fight you, our love and truth. -[5871.86 --> 5879.86] I want your trust in you, and in all I do bring you water and peace. -[5880.86 --> 5889.86] Oh, I love you, breathe in my deep air. -[5889.86 --> 5897.86] You are faithful, through the ages you never change. -[5897.86 --> 5901.86] Oh, I love you, breathe in my deep air. -[5901.86 --> 5903.86] Oh, I love you, breathe in my deep air. -[5903.86 --> 5909.86] Oh, I love you, breathe in my deep air. -[5909.86 --> 5913.86] Oh, I love you, breathe in my deep air. -[5913.86 --> 5915.86] You are faithful, through the ages you never change. -[5915.86 --> 5917.86] Oh, I love you, breathe in my deep air. -[5917.86 --> 5921.86] You are faithful, through the ages you never change. -[5921.86 --> 5925.86] Oh, I love you, breathe in my deep air. -[5925.86 --> 5927.86] You are faithful, through the ages you never change. -[5927.86 --> 5937.86] You are faithful, through the ages you never change. -[5937.86 --> 5942.86] Oh, I love you, breathe in my deep air. -[5942.86 --> 5951.86] You are faithful, through the ages you never change. -[5951.86 --> 5973.86] You are faithful, through the ages you never change. -[5973.86 --> 5975.86] Amen. -[6003.86 --> 6005.86] Amen. -[6033.86 --> 6035.86] Amen. -[6063.86 --> 6065.86] Amen. -[6093.86 --> 6095.86] Amen. -[6123.86 --> 6125.86] Amen. -[6153.86 --> 6155.86] Amen. -[6183.86 --> 6185.86] Amen. -[6213.86 --> 6215.86] Amen. -[6243.86 --> 6245.86] Amen. -[6273.86 --> 6275.86] Amen. -[6303.86 --> 6305.86] Amen. -[6333.86 --> 6335.86] Amen. -[6363.86 --> 6365.86] Amen. -[6393.86 --> 6395.86] Amen. -[6423.86 --> 6425.86] Amen. -[6453.86 --> 6455.86] Amen. -[6483.86 --> 6485.86] Amen. -[6513.86 --> 6515.86] Amen. -[6543.86 --> 6545.86] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, February 25, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, February 25, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c7999e9bdf9f926c52d5a448d1b1cd039bd4ee51..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, February 25, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,139 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction of a cadet's code -• Explanation of the singing of "Living for Jesus" as a congregation, with cadets leading a cappella and others joining in -• Lyrics to the song "Living for Jesus" -• Invitation for all men in the congregation to stand and sing along with the cadets -• A woman prays and gives herself to Jesus -• Brenda introduces herself as a deacon at Emmanuel and continues worship with the offering -• The cadet program is discussed, including its goal to provide Christian men with structure and materials for spiritual growth -• A slideshow of pictures from the past year's cadets is played during the offering -• Music and worship continue, with songs such as "Bless the Lord" and "10,000 Reasons" -• Kids from preschool to grade four are invited to come up to the front -• An interactive activity is done with popcorn kernels -• Discussion about popcorn kernels and their transformation when heated -• Comparison of hard, tasteless kernels to closed hearts -• The process of having a "seed" planted in one's heart, leading to softening and peace -• Announcements and prayer requests for the church community -• Reflection on the bulletin from the previous year and remembering those who are no longer with them -• Prayer and praise to God for His wisdom, knowledge, and glory -• Material blessings and things that bring enjoyment -• Creativity, talents, and gifts of those present -• Service, teaching, encouragement, mercy, leadership, giving, and hospitality -• Technology and the internet -• Social media and relationships -• Prayer for continued providence and abundance beyond human understanding -• Specific individuals and their needs (Ellen White's health, families affected by loss) -• Life trials and requests to surrender them to God -• Various church ministries and teams (Mexico team, cadet program) -• Requests for blessings on activities, wisdom, and time for leaders -• Introductions to reading Ephesians 3:14-21 -• Invitation to find a Bible or access it on device -• Reading from Ephesians 3:14-21 begins -• Exposition of Ephesians 3:14-21 continues -• Reflections by the speaker on his own experiences as a cadet -• The speaker discusses a song called "Living for Jesus" that hasn't changed in 40 years. -• The focus of the sermon is on experiencing the love of Jesus and living for Him. -• The speaker references Ephesians, specifically Paul's prayer for the young believers at the church in Ephesus. -• The passage mentions God's glorious riches strengthening those who believe with power through His spirit. -• The phrase "God's glorious riches" and its connection to Christ -• Ephesians and Colossians scriptures referencing God's glorious riches among the Gentiles -• The presence of Christ living in believers through the Spirit -• Transformation into Christ's image through the Spirit -• Being part of a deep and real relationship with Jesus -• God seeing believers as being clothed in Christ -• Being a Christian is not just about going to church and listening to sermons -• A true relationship with God through Jesus means trusting Him more than oneself -• Faith is the key to being brought into union with Jesus and God -• Faith involves believing, trusting, and having assurance in God's promises -• It is something received, believed, and then achieved -• Faith as a gift from God -• Faith and its relation to action and deeds -• Faith as something you believe, receive, and achieve -• Importance of content and doctrine in faith -• Role of good teaching and ministering in nourishing faith -• Order of faith: receiving, believing, and then achieving through action -• The importance of faith preceding obedience in the lives of children -• The distinction between obedience and faith, and how to teach them correctly -• Starting with talking to children about faith rather than rules -• Showing children the vitality of a received and believed faith -• Being rooted and grounded in love to achieve transformed lives through Christ's dwelling in their hearts by faith -• The image of a tree with deep roots is used to convey strength and stability. -• A similar concept, "grounded", is also discussed as being firm and established. -• A foundation or base is mentioned as providing support and stability for something. -• The idea of building on a rock instead of sand is brought up as a metaphor for building on strong foundations. -• The importance of being rooted and grounded in faith -• Relationship to the Holy Spirit and Christ -• Planting spiritual foundation for stability -• Withstanding devil's lies and enduring life's challenges -• Biosphere as an enclosed habitat -• Functioning ecosystem within the biosphere -• Experiment from 1991 to 1993 testing life in an enclosed space -• Purpose of experiment: to inform building habitats on other planets -• Observations inside the biosphere, including trees and flowing water -• Soil conditions -• Carbon requirements -• Nitrate levels -• Growth of trees -• Effects of wind and bad weather on tree growth -• Stress caused by environmental factors -• Root development in response to stress -• Importance of strong root systems for tree survival -• Trees growing on mountaintops and their competition for sunlight -• Tree trunks bending to create stress, leading to the formation of two types of wood -• The benefits of this process in helping trees remain strong -• Comparison to human lives and relationships with God, facing stress and pressure -• Reference to the Bible making it clear that this phenomenon occurs repeatedly -• God uses stresses, pressures, and trials to deepen one's roots in a relationship with Him -• The purpose of hardship in the Christian life is to establish a stronger connection with God -• Hardships can be used by God to make us stronger and help us endure until the end -• The ultimate purpose of adversity is to teach us who we are in relationship with Jesus -• The love of Christ is wide, long, high, and deep -• Love of Christ covers us in hard times -• The love of Jesus is bigger than our sins -• The list of doubts and questions we have is longer than our arms can hold -• The love of God in Christ is higher, deeper, and more profound -• The speaker mentions a relationship that will be explored -• The Holy Spirit strengthens the inner being and Christ dwells within -• Being rooted and grounded in love allows for deep understanding of God's love -• This understanding leads to seeing the width, length, height, and depth of God's love -• Knowing this allows one to see the arrow (of faith) go forward again -• The love of Christ helps us to see the Holy Spirit strengthening us -• Seeing more of Jesus dwelling in us leads to being deeply rooted and grounded in Him -• Being deeply rooted and grounded in who He is allows us to know more about His deep, long, high, and wide love for us -• This knowledge empowers us to keep moving forward in life -• A 25-minute teaching on the depth of God's love is shared. -• Discussion about someone needing to be smaller in size -• Malachi cannot participate due to possibly broken wrist -• Warning about potential trouble if the person falls -• Statement that no one is right, but a decision needs to be made -• Reference to using Tyus or another alternative -• Explanation of being rooted and established in truth -• Mention of reaching forward for a prize -• Request for a high-five -• Comment on watching someone be unable to do something -• Something is missing in the person's life -• The importance of being rooted and established in love -• Being held or supported by others in faith -• The picture of Christian life as discipleship and community -• How these aspects interact with each other for personal growth -• Tying someone up -• Concern for mother's reaction to using child in a picture -• Not doing things alone, but together as a community -• Expanding relationship with God and understanding love of Christ -• Love surpassing knowledge -• References to Bible verses (19 and 20) -• Singing about faith and giving God glory -• Community of faith living together and experiencing truth -• Giving God glory through songs and daily life -• Holding onto the hand of faith and leaning into relationship with God -• Stretching, growing, and deepening in faith and relationship with God -• Purpose of gathering -• Importance of faith and trust in God's love -• Transformation through Holy Spirit -• Rootedness and establishment in God's presence -• Unity and connection with others through Jesus' name -• Worship and praise through singing and prayer -• Worship and praise for God's love and grace -• Description of God's attributes (high, deep, long, sweet, strong) -• References to scripture and biblical themes -• Invitation to receive prayer or meet with someone at the front -• Blessing and farewell message, with emphasis on God's presence and protection \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, February 25, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, February 25, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ead76476afa49a19f466383b583f55f76093bec4..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, February 25, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3121 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.26] Make it back on your Ой -[2.88 --> 3.96] two -[7.22 --> 8.22] uh -[12.00 --> 13.04] Uh -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[569.98 --> 599.96] Thank you. -[599.98 --> 629.96] Thank you. -[629.96 --> 659.94] Thank you. -[659.94 --> 689.92] Thank you. -[689.94 --> 719.92] Thank you. -[719.92 --> 749.90] Thank you. -[749.92 --> 779.90] Thank you. -[779.90 --> 809.88] Thank you. -[809.90 --> 839.88] Thank you. -[839.90 --> 869.88] Thank you. -[869.88 --> 899.86] Thank you. -[899.88 --> 929.86] Thank you. -[929.88 --> 959.86] Thank you. -[959.88 --> 989.86] Thank you. -[989.88 --> 1019.86] Good. -[1019.86 --> 1049.84] Thank you. -[1049.84 --> 1079.82] Thank you. -[1079.84 --> 1109.82] Thank you. -[1109.84 --> 1139.82] Thank you. -[1139.82 --> 1169.80] Thank you. -[1169.82 --> 1199.82] Maybe. -[1199.82 --> 1229.82] Thank you. -[1229.82 --> 1259.82] Thank you. -[1259.82 --> 1289.82] Thank you. -[1289.82 --> 1319.80] Thank you. -[1319.80 --> 1349.80] Thank you. -[1349.80 --> 1379.78] Thank you. -[1379.78 --> 1409.76] Thank you. -[1409.78 --> 1439.76] Thank you. -[1439.78 --> 1469.76] Thank you. -[1469.78 --> 1499.76] Thank you. -[1499.78 --> 1529.76] Thank you. -[1529.78 --> 1559.76] Thank you. -[1559.78 --> 1589.76] Thank you. -[1589.78 --> 1619.76] Thank you. -[1619.78 --> 1649.76] Thank you. -[1649.78 --> 1679.76] Thank you. -[1679.78 --> 1709.76] Thank you. -[1709.78 --> 1739.76] Thank you. -[1739.76 --> 1769.74] Thank you. -[1769.74 --> 1799.72] Thank you. -[1799.72 --> 1829.70] Thank you. -[1829.70 --> 1859.70] Thank you. -[1859.70 --> 1889.70] -[1889.70 --> 1919.68] Thank you. -[1919.68 --> 1949.66] Thank you. -[1949.66 --> 1979.64] Thank you. -[1979.66 --> 2009.64] Thank you. -[2009.66 --> 2039.64] Thank you. -[2039.66 --> 2069.64] Thank you. -[2069.64 --> 2099.62] Thank you. -[2099.64 --> 2129.62] Thank you. -[2129.64 --> 2159.62] Thank you. -[2159.64 --> 2189.62] Thank you. -[2189.62 --> 2219.60] One of the -[2219.60 --> 2249.58] Cadets, what is your code. -[2249.58 --> 2279.56] And I'm going to say, -[2279.56 --> 2309.56] the real cadet, -[2309.56 --> 2339.54] and you're in the -[2339.54 --> 2346.44] Once the cadets in the shop say time is up, we get back in our age category and sing Living for Jesus. -[2347.04 --> 2349.54] Sometimes we sing it louder for the parents to hear. -[2349.94 --> 2351.26] That's a fun cadet night. -[2360.64 --> 2363.88] We are going to sing Living for Jesus right now as a congregation. -[2363.88 --> 2373.84] The way we're going to do this today is we're going to invite the cadets and all of the men in cadets or not are going to stand for the first verse and chorus. -[2374.32 --> 2378.32] They are going to lead us a cappella like they do in cadets every week. -[2378.98 --> 2383.76] Then the rest of the congregation, you're invited to stand and join us for verses 2 and 3 as well. -[2384.62 --> 2389.04] Cadets and any men who want to join them who've been in cadets in the past, please rise. -[2389.24 --> 2393.00] You'll hear the piano with their note and we will start Living for Jesus together. -[2393.88 --> 2404.84] Living for Jesus, a life that is true -[2404.84 --> 2411.94] Striving to please Him in all that I do -[2411.94 --> 2418.72] Yielding allegiance, glad-hearted and free -[2418.72 --> 2425.68] This is a pathway of blessing for me -[2425.68 --> 2429.68] O Jesus, Lord and Savior -[2429.68 --> 2433.68] I give myself to Thee -[2433.68 --> 2437.68] For Thou in Thine atonement -[2437.68 --> 2441.68] Didst give Thyself for me -[2441.68 --> 2444.64] I owe no other master -[2444.64 --> 2448.64] My heart shall be Thy throne -[2448.64 --> 2453.64] My life I give henceforth to live -[2453.64 --> 2457.64] O Christ for Thee alone -[2457.64 --> 2459.64] Please join us and rise -[2459.64 --> 2464.60] Living for Jesus -[2464.60 --> 2468.60] Living for Jesus who died in my place -[2468.60 --> 2474.60] Bearing on Calvary my sin and disgrace -[2474.60 --> 2482.60] Such love constraints me to answer His call -[2482.60 --> 2483.56] For all His name and grace -[2483.56 --> 2485.56] The Lord is leading -[2485.56 --> 2489.56] And give Him my all -[2489.56 --> 2492.56] My Jesus, Lord and Savior -[2492.56 --> 2496.56] I give myself to Thee -[2496.56 --> 2499.56] For Thou in my atonement -[2499.56 --> 2503.56] Didst give Thyself for me -[2503.56 --> 2506.52] I owe no other master -[2506.52 --> 2507.52] I owe no other master -[2507.52 --> 2510.52] My heart shall be Thy throne -[2510.52 --> 2514.52] My life I give henceforth to live -[2514.52 --> 2519.52] O Christ for Thee alone -[2519.52 --> 2528.52] Living for Jesus wherever I am -[2528.52 --> 2532.48] Doing each to Thee -[2532.48 --> 2536.48] In His holy name -[2536.48 --> 2539.48] Seeking the lost ones -[2539.48 --> 2542.48] He died to redeem -[2542.48 --> 2546.48] Bringing the weary -[2546.48 --> 2549.48] To find rest in Him -[2549.48 --> 2553.48] O Jesus, Lord and Savior -[2553.48 --> 2556.48] I give myself to Thee -[2556.48 --> 2560.44] For Thou in my atonement -[2560.44 --> 2563.44] Didst give Thyself for me -[2563.44 --> 2567.44] I owe no other master -[2567.44 --> 2571.44] My heart shall be Thy throne -[2571.44 --> 2576.44] My life I give henceforth to live -[2576.44 --> 2581.44] O Christ for Thee alone -[2581.44 --> 2584.00] Please be seated -[2584.00 --> 2601.96] Good morning -[2601.96 --> 2605.70] Good morning, my name is Brenda -[2605.70 --> 2607.64] And I'm a deacon here at Emmanuel -[2607.64 --> 2610.90] And we can continue our worship -[2610.90 --> 2612.06] With the giving of our gifts -[2612.06 --> 2614.84] And first for the budget -[2614.84 --> 2617.10] That covers the administration here -[2617.10 --> 2619.44] And then for cadets -[2619.44 --> 2624.88] And Andrew is going to just give us a little -[2624.88 --> 2626.24] Update on that -[2626.24 --> 2636.20] All right, so the special offering this morning is for the cadet program -[2636.20 --> 2639.94] This year for our cadet program here at Emmanuel -[2639.94 --> 2641.76] We've got 28 boys registered -[2641.76 --> 2646.48] With 15 of them coming from outside of our church family here -[2646.48 --> 2650.44] So I think a little bit less than half of them are here today -[2650.44 --> 2652.14] So normally we have a much bigger group -[2652.14 --> 2655.96] The goal of the cadet program is to provide Christian men -[2655.96 --> 2659.84] With a structure, program, and materials that are uniquely designed -[2659.84 --> 2662.64] To help boys grow spiritually in all areas of their life -[2662.64 --> 2666.26] Devotional, mental, physical, and social -[2666.26 --> 2671.26] Please pray for us as we help boys learn what it means to embody our motto -[2671.26 --> 2672.34] Living for Jesus -[2672.34 --> 2675.00] During the offering this morning -[2675.00 --> 2676.88] A short slideshow we'll play -[2676.88 --> 2679.86] With some of our pictures from the past year from cadets -[2679.86 --> 2689.42] Bless the Lord, oh my soul -[2689.42 --> 2692.50] Oh my soul -[2692.50 --> 2697.46] Worship his holy name -[2697.46 --> 2701.86] Sing like never before -[2701.86 --> 2704.52] Oh my soul -[2704.52 --> 2705.68] Oh my soul -[2705.68 --> 2711.02] I worship your holy name -[2711.02 --> 2718.56] The sun comes up -[2718.56 --> 2722.60] It's a new day dawning -[2722.60 --> 2728.32] It's time to sing your song again -[2728.32 --> 2736.50] Whatever may pass and whatever lies before me -[2736.50 --> 2736.52] Whatever may pass and whatever lies before me -[2736.52 --> 2744.40] Let me be singing when the evening comes -[2744.40 --> 2745.06] Bless the Lord, oh my soul -[2745.06 --> 2750.06] Bless the Lord, oh my soul -[2750.06 --> 2751.06] I worship your holy name -[2751.06 --> 2757.06] I worship your holy name -[2757.06 --> 2761.06] Sing like never before -[2761.06 --> 2764.72] Oh my soul -[2764.72 --> 2765.72] I worship your holy name -[2765.72 --> 2769.72] I worship your holy name -[2769.72 --> 2770.72] Your holy name -[2770.72 --> 2770.96] Your holy name -[2770.96 --> 2773.94] Your holy name is great -[2773.94 --> 2778.10] And we're so to anger -[2778.10 --> 2784.22] Your name is great and your heart is kind -[2784.22 --> 2791.48] For all your goodness I will keep on singing -[2791.48 --> 2800.10] Ten thousand reasons for my heart to find -[2800.10 --> 2807.62] Bless the Lord, oh my soul, oh my soul -[2807.62 --> 2812.56] Worship His holy name -[2812.56 --> 2820.10] Since I've never been born, oh my soul -[2820.76 --> 2826.90] Worship Your holy name, bless the Lord -[2826.90 --> 2834.42] Bless the Lord, oh my soul, oh my soul -[2834.42 --> 2839.42] Worship His holy name -[2839.42 --> 2844.26] Can't sing like never before -[2844.26 --> 2852.74] Oh my soul, I'll worship Your holy name -[2856.90 --> 2863.86] And on that day when my strength is failing -[2863.86 --> 2869.80] The end drives near and my time has come -[2869.80 --> 2876.80] Still my soul will sing Your praise all ending -[2876.80 --> 2897.26] Good morning, everybody. -[2897.44 --> 2903.12] Can I have the kids from preschool all the way up to grade four come up to the front? -[2903.12 --> 2915.14] What do I have here, guys? -[2915.60 --> 2917.64] Popcorn kernels -[2917.64 --> 2919.46] The kernels, right? -[2919.70 --> 2921.86] And what shape are they? -[2922.64 --> 2923.20] Here -[2923.20 --> 2935.76] I'm going to ask you guys, if you have to feel it, how does it feel? -[2936.90 --> 2937.30] Hard -[2937.30 --> 2938.10] Harder -[2938.10 --> 2941.72] Crunchy -[2941.72 --> 2944.68] How does it feel? -[2947.00 --> 2951.52] If you had to taste the kernels, what do you think they would taste like? -[2951.52 --> 2954.82] Do they taste good? -[2955.34 --> 2955.92] No -[2955.92 --> 2956.70] No -[2956.70 --> 2961.90] What happens to the kernels when we heat them up? -[2962.14 --> 2964.00] Meat, meat, meat, meat, meat -[2964.00 --> 2968.56] They pop, and what does it look like? -[2972.88 --> 2973.36] Popcorn -[2973.36 --> 2976.32] Popcorn, and is it something to eat? -[2976.66 --> 2977.04] Yeah -[2977.04 --> 2979.70] Does it look nicer than a kernel? -[2980.26 --> 2980.66] Yeah -[2980.66 --> 2984.66] Like it looks more, I guess, beautiful, you could say, if you could say that about popcorn? -[2984.84 --> 2985.30] More appetizing -[2985.30 --> 2986.70] More appetizing? -[2986.92 --> 2987.84] Yeah, you're right -[2987.84 --> 2995.30] So the kernels, when we look at it, we can think of it as our hearts -[2995.30 --> 3005.92] The kernels are hard, and they're tasteless, and you don't want to be around a person when they have a closed heart -[3005.92 --> 3013.72] Because sometimes they're grumpy and grouchy, but when we heat up or we get a seed planted in our hearts -[3013.72 --> 3020.18] It comes out beautiful, and it softens our hearts, and we're at a little bit more peace -[3020.18 --> 3027.06] And we're able to help other people, because other people will look at us and be like, ooh, I like that -[3027.06 --> 3033.10] And we're able to help other people and tell them about what Jesus has done in our hearts -[3033.10 --> 3033.66] Yeah -[3033.66 --> 3040.16] So today in Children's Worship Time, we're going to talk about when we are at peace, or our hearts are softened -[3040.16 --> 3043.74] We are able to help other people be at peace -[3043.74 --> 3044.96] Okay? -[3045.54 --> 3047.84] So can I have a person to stand up -[3047.84 --> 3052.94] Look at the conversation -[3052.94 --> 3055.82] And we're saying -[3055.82 --> 3058.78] The Lord be with you -[3058.78 --> 3060.76] And also with you -[3060.76 --> 3087.00] Good morning -[3087.00 --> 3088.38] My name is Rob -[3088.38 --> 3089.42] I'm a member here -[3089.42 --> 3091.20] And a former cadet -[3091.20 --> 3100.72] As I was walking up, I wondered if perhaps that leaving for Children's Worship is good preparation for tag at cadets -[3100.72 --> 3107.22] As we march through our series of Romans -[3107.22 --> 3111.40] One of the things that was, for me, that was hidden in plain sight -[3111.40 --> 3116.20] Was that interlude between chapters 11 and chapters 12 -[3116.20 --> 3120.30] And it also marks a hinge point in the book of Romans -[3120.30 --> 3124.04] Between that dense theology and the practical living -[3124.04 --> 3128.14] And I really appreciate that doxology sandwiched in there -[3128.14 --> 3132.24] And I'd like to use that in our prayer as we pray today -[3132.24 --> 3135.76] A couple of things to note from our bulletin -[3135.76 --> 3139.02] Ellen White is in the hospital with a broken hip -[3139.02 --> 3142.48] And also, I understand it is her birthday today -[3142.48 --> 3143.52] She is 76 -[3143.52 --> 3148.78] We also want to pray for our Mexico missions team -[3148.78 --> 3151.26] With their upcoming trip, of course -[3151.26 --> 3154.58] And the dinner, which is on the 2nd -[3154.58 --> 3156.06] Do I have that correct? -[3156.06 --> 3156.62] Okay -[3156.62 --> 3163.56] And also, I thought it would be interesting to look at our bulletin from a year ago -[3163.56 --> 3170.04] And in that bulletin, we noted that Leanne's father had passed away -[3170.04 --> 3174.04] Cy Visser was starting his treatments -[3174.04 --> 3178.66] And Jackie Birkenpass was in the last days of her life -[3178.66 --> 3182.56] These things are no longer on our current list -[3182.56 --> 3184.18] But they're not forgotten -[3184.18 --> 3187.40] And we remember these families, too, in their grief -[3187.40 --> 3191.76] Let's turn together in prayer -[3191.76 --> 3197.60] Oh, how great are God's riches in wisdom and knowledge -[3197.60 --> 3200.76] How impossible it is for us to understand -[3200.76 --> 3203.46] His decisions and His ways -[3203.46 --> 3206.04] Who can know the Lord's thoughts? -[3206.68 --> 3208.64] Who knows enough to give Him advice? -[3209.32 --> 3212.90] And who has given Him so much that He needs to pay it back? -[3213.72 --> 3216.66] For everything comes from Him and exists by His power -[3216.66 --> 3218.58] And is intended for His glory -[3218.58 --> 3221.02] All glory to Him forever -[3221.02 --> 3225.30] We begin and end with these words to praise you -[3225.30 --> 3227.92] And to remind ourselves of who you are -[3227.92 --> 3230.64] How vast the love of Christ -[3230.64 --> 3233.88] May we as your church, through all times and places -[3233.88 --> 3239.72] With the cadets, grasp how wide, how long, how high, how deep -[3239.72 --> 3242.34] And that we may know it, too -[3242.34 --> 3246.82] Without you, assuming we could actually exist without you -[3246.82 --> 3248.76] How much worse things would be -[3248.76 --> 3250.66] All glory to you forever -[3250.66 --> 3254.32] And yet, we seek our own glory -[3254.32 --> 3255.28] Our own knowledge -[3255.28 --> 3258.60] Sometimes we tend to preserve what we have -[3258.60 --> 3261.50] Rather than giving to you what is yours -[3261.50 --> 3264.04] Forgive us, Lord, as individuals -[3264.04 --> 3265.34] For the endless times -[3265.34 --> 3267.92] We've done this throughout this past week -[3267.92 --> 3270.02] Forgive us as families -[3270.02 --> 3273.04] For the repeated times that we've put our family first -[3273.04 --> 3275.90] Forgive us, Lord, as our church family -[3275.90 --> 3278.44] For the repeated times we've put ourselves first -[3278.44 --> 3282.16] Through our wrong, may we see your right -[3282.16 --> 3284.92] We have much to give thanks -[3284.92 --> 3287.18] We thank you for all that comes from you -[3287.18 --> 3288.82] For the material blessings -[3288.82 --> 3291.26] For things, activities that we can enjoy -[3291.26 --> 3294.26] For the creativity that you've given us -[3294.26 --> 3296.94] Just in our midst here, we have the artist -[3296.94 --> 3299.70] The academic, the quilter, the athlete, the fixer -[3299.70 --> 3302.18] May those bring you glory, too -[3302.18 --> 3305.00] Thank you for those in our midst -[3305.00 --> 3306.80] Who have that gift of serving -[3306.80 --> 3308.86] Of teaching, of encouragement -[3308.86 --> 3310.94] Of mercy, of leadership -[3310.94 --> 3313.26] Of giving, of hospitality -[3313.26 --> 3317.44] Thank you for the technology we live in in this age -[3317.44 --> 3319.42] For the vastness of the internet -[3319.42 --> 3321.86] Which is just a mere speck of information -[3321.86 --> 3323.26] In contrast to you -[3323.26 --> 3326.58] For podcasts that can engage our mind -[3326.58 --> 3328.84] Which is just a mere start of -[3328.84 --> 3331.58] In comparison to your knowledge -[3331.58 --> 3333.68] For the social media -[3333.68 --> 3335.10] That connects us in ways -[3335.10 --> 3336.46] It's just a mere shadow -[3336.46 --> 3338.32] Of the relationship we can have in you -[3338.32 --> 3341.56] We ask for your continued providence -[3341.56 --> 3343.24] You do immeasurably more -[3343.24 --> 3344.90] Than we ask or imagine -[3344.90 --> 3347.72] Father, we think of those things -[3347.72 --> 3348.96] That we highlight -[3348.96 --> 3351.78] In our bulletin -[3351.78 --> 3353.12] We think of Ellen White -[3353.12 --> 3354.44] In the hospital, Lord -[3354.44 --> 3355.92] We pray that you'll give her healing -[3355.92 --> 3359.40] And thank you for the years of her life -[3359.40 --> 3361.32] That she could celebrate a birthday today -[3361.32 --> 3365.02] Father, we pray for the individuals -[3365.02 --> 3366.66] And families who've been impacted -[3366.66 --> 3369.92] By people passing away -[3369.92 --> 3373.44] We pray that even though -[3373.44 --> 3374.84] We don't mention them by week -[3374.84 --> 3379.10] That you will continue to grant them peace -[3379.10 --> 3382.36] And as they go through that grieving process -[3382.36 --> 3383.62] Remember them -[3383.62 --> 3387.70] Father, we pray for each of us -[3387.70 --> 3390.64] As we go through our own particular life trials -[3390.64 --> 3391.86] Whatever they may be -[3391.86 --> 3394.08] And we pray that we will be able to -[3394.08 --> 3395.42] To give them over to you -[3395.42 --> 3396.66] And through our pain -[3396.66 --> 3398.16] That we might see you clearly -[3398.16 --> 3401.28] We think also of the Mexico team -[3401.28 --> 3402.90] We thank you for the dinner upcoming -[3402.90 --> 3405.58] We pray that they will be able to prepare well -[3405.58 --> 3407.04] We pray for Brandon -[3407.04 --> 3408.32] As he leads this trip -[3408.32 --> 3410.20] Give him the wisdom and grace -[3410.20 --> 3413.36] Even just giving him time and space -[3413.36 --> 3414.22] To be able to prepare -[3414.22 --> 3415.98] And spend time with his family -[3415.98 --> 3419.80] We pray that the team will be able to make good connections there -[3419.80 --> 3422.76] And reconnect with people from before -[3422.76 --> 3426.02] In Mexico, we think of Jody and Ariel -[3426.02 --> 3429.12] As they minister there -[3429.12 --> 3430.28] We pray for the men -[3430.28 --> 3432.22] That come to their addiction recovery home -[3432.22 --> 3434.82] Sometimes over and over again -[3434.82 --> 3437.14] Perhaps not a subtle reminder -[3437.14 --> 3439.16] Of our own addictions to sin -[3439.16 --> 3441.42] And the grace that you lavish on us -[3441.42 --> 3442.76] Over and over again -[3442.76 --> 3445.68] We thank you for all the ministries -[3445.68 --> 3447.48] And the teams of this church -[3447.48 --> 3449.96] Today we highlight the cadet program -[3449.96 --> 3451.50] We pray that you bless the cadets -[3451.50 --> 3452.50] And their leaders -[3452.50 --> 3453.58] Bless their activities -[3453.58 --> 3455.56] Whether that be racing cub cars -[3455.56 --> 3457.28] Or spending time in devotions -[3457.28 --> 3458.54] Or just hanging out -[3458.54 --> 3462.16] We ask that in our time here today -[3462.16 --> 3463.28] That you will be praised -[3463.28 --> 3465.92] And that we will be filled with your spirit -[3465.92 --> 3468.26] May we dig into your word today -[3468.26 --> 3469.14] This week -[3469.14 --> 3471.18] And this week -[3471.18 --> 3473.44] And reflect on the message -[3473.44 --> 3475.18] We hear this morning from Ephesians -[3475.18 --> 3478.48] Oh how great are God's riches -[3478.48 --> 3480.20] In wisdom -[3480.20 --> 3481.44] In knowledge -[3481.44 --> 3482.90] How impossible it is -[3482.90 --> 3484.76] For us to understand his decisions -[3484.76 --> 3485.72] And his ways -[3485.72 --> 3488.14] For who can know -[3488.14 --> 3489.18] The Lord's thoughts -[3489.18 --> 3490.52] Who knows enough -[3490.52 --> 3491.54] To give him advice -[3491.54 --> 3493.64] And who has given him -[3493.64 --> 3494.44] So much -[3494.44 --> 3496.10] That he needs to pay it back -[3496.10 --> 3498.72] For everything comes from him -[3498.72 --> 3500.12] And exists by his power -[3500.12 --> 3501.28] And is intended -[3501.28 --> 3502.56] For his glory -[3502.56 --> 3504.20] All glory to him -[3504.20 --> 3505.16] Forever -[3505.16 --> 3505.76] Amen -[3505.76 --> 3506.32] Amen -[3506.32 --> 3514.50] Thanks Rob -[3514.50 --> 3520.20] We're gonna -[3520.20 --> 3522.56] Read together -[3522.56 --> 3524.14] I'm gonna let you find it -[3524.14 --> 3524.60] There -[3524.60 --> 3525.24] Yeah -[3525.24 --> 3526.06] There -[3526.06 --> 3527.88] We're gonna read together -[3527.88 --> 3529.34] From Ephesians 3 -[3529.34 --> 3531.66] It's gonna be read by a couple cadets -[3531.66 --> 3532.26] And so -[3532.26 --> 3533.38] I invite you to -[3533.38 --> 3534.66] Find a Bible -[3534.66 --> 3535.76] Open it up -[3535.76 --> 3537.22] Turn to Ephesians 3 -[3537.22 --> 3538.76] Our first time through -[3538.76 --> 3540.56] Will be on the screen behind us -[3540.56 --> 3542.40] If you -[3542.40 --> 3544.18] Are looking for Bibles -[3544.18 --> 3545.42] There's some at the back there -[3545.42 --> 3546.82] We can invite you to grab one of those -[3546.82 --> 3548.78] Or you can turn your device on -[3548.78 --> 3549.66] And find it there -[3549.66 --> 3551.00] Boys -[3551.00 --> 3551.56] Go ahead -[3551.56 --> 3553.18] Reading this morning -[3553.18 --> 3554.44] Comes from Ephesians 3 -[3554.44 --> 3555.80] Verses 14 to 21 -[3555.80 --> 3557.54] My prayer for the Ephesians -[3557.54 --> 3558.62] For this reason -[3558.62 --> 3559.82] I kneel before the Father -[3559.82 --> 3561.10] From whom every family -[3561.10 --> 3561.66] In heaven -[3561.66 --> 3562.54] On earth -[3562.54 --> 3563.50] Devives its name -[3563.50 --> 3565.28] I pray that out of -[3565.28 --> 3566.28] His glorious riches -[3566.28 --> 3567.50] He may strengthen you -[3567.50 --> 3568.04] With power -[3568.04 --> 3569.06] Through his spirit -[3569.06 --> 3569.94] In your inner being -[3569.94 --> 3571.44] So that Christ -[3571.44 --> 3572.40] May dwell in your hearts -[3572.40 --> 3572.98] Through faith -[3572.98 --> 3576.78] And I pray that -[3576.78 --> 3577.90] You being rooted -[3577.90 --> 3578.64] And established -[3578.64 --> 3579.36] In love -[3579.36 --> 3580.28] May have power -[3580.28 --> 3581.34] Together with all -[3581.34 --> 3582.56] The Lord's holy people -[3582.56 --> 3583.84] To grasp how -[3583.84 --> 3585.02] Wide and long -[3585.02 --> 3586.18] And high and deep -[3586.18 --> 3587.42] Is the love of Christ -[3587.42 --> 3588.66] And to know -[3588.66 --> 3589.52] This love -[3589.52 --> 3590.98] That surpasses knowledge -[3590.98 --> 3592.76] That you may be filled -[3592.76 --> 3593.52] To the measure -[3593.52 --> 3594.50] Of all the fullness -[3594.50 --> 3595.16] Of God -[3595.16 --> 3596.46] Now to him -[3596.46 --> 3597.66] Who is able to do -[3597.66 --> 3598.86] Immeasurably more -[3598.86 --> 3599.98] Than all we ask -[3599.98 --> 3600.60] Or imagine -[3600.60 --> 3602.18] According to his power -[3602.18 --> 3603.20] That is at work -[3603.20 --> 3603.94] Within us -[3603.94 --> 3605.46] To him be glory -[3605.46 --> 3606.10] In the church -[3606.10 --> 3607.14] And in Christ Jesus -[3607.14 --> 3608.52] Throughout all generations -[3608.52 --> 3609.80] Forever and ever -[3609.80 --> 3610.48] Amen -[3610.48 --> 3612.04] Amen -[3612.04 --> 3613.60] The word of the Lord -[3613.60 --> 3613.96] Amen -[3613.96 --> 3614.02] Amen -[3614.02 --> 3614.52] Amen -[3614.52 --> 3615.02] Amen -[3615.02 --> 3616.02] Amen -[3616.02 --> 3617.02] Amen -[3617.02 --> 3617.40] Amen -[3617.40 --> 3624.18] As Austin -[3624.18 --> 3625.30] Was up here earlier -[3625.30 --> 3625.96] Talking about -[3625.96 --> 3627.12] A typical night -[3627.12 --> 3627.70] At cadets -[3627.70 --> 3628.66] I was thinking back -[3628.66 --> 3629.14] To when -[3629.14 --> 3630.36] I was a boy -[3630.36 --> 3631.20] When I was your age -[3631.20 --> 3632.26] I was also in -[3632.26 --> 3633.74] A cadet program -[3633.74 --> 3635.46] And I have to say -[3635.46 --> 3636.64] You kids must be better -[3636.64 --> 3637.32] Than we were -[3637.32 --> 3637.90] Back then -[3637.90 --> 3639.48] Because we didn't play -[3639.48 --> 3640.40] Hide and seek -[3640.40 --> 3641.06] Or tag -[3641.06 --> 3642.64] We played -[3642.64 --> 3643.28] Wrestle -[3643.28 --> 3644.22] With the largest -[3644.22 --> 3644.86] Counselor -[3644.86 --> 3646.86] And our largest -[3646.86 --> 3647.38] Counselor -[3647.38 --> 3647.80] Was like -[3647.80 --> 3648.48] Counselor -[3648.48 --> 3649.24] Alvin -[3649.24 --> 3650.18] If he had -[3650.18 --> 3650.60] Eaten -[3650.60 --> 3651.04] Another -[3651.04 --> 3651.64] Counselor -[3651.64 --> 3652.00] Alvin -[3652.00 --> 3655.42] And so -[3655.42 --> 3656.54] If someone -[3656.54 --> 3657.06] Went home -[3657.06 --> 3657.70] Without a broken -[3657.70 --> 3658.08] Bone -[3658.08 --> 3659.18] It was a good -[3659.18 --> 3659.98] Night at cadets -[3659.98 --> 3662.58] Also -[3662.58 --> 3663.76] Mindful of the fact -[3663.76 --> 3664.38] That song -[3664.38 --> 3665.20] Living for Jesus -[3665.20 --> 3666.46] Hasn't changed -[3666.46 --> 3667.30] In 40 years -[3667.30 --> 3668.60] Still sounds -[3668.60 --> 3669.26] As broken -[3669.26 --> 3670.72] And the like -[3670.72 --> 3671.42] As we go -[3671.42 --> 3673.20] But it's such -[3673.20 --> 3673.78] A beautiful -[3673.78 --> 3674.98] And powerful message -[3674.98 --> 3676.66] And so my prayer -[3676.66 --> 3677.38] For you guys -[3677.38 --> 3678.02] This morning -[3678.02 --> 3678.76] And for you -[3678.76 --> 3680.02] All year long -[3680.02 --> 3681.42] Is that you -[3681.42 --> 3682.38] Would experience -[3682.38 --> 3683.16] What it means -[3683.16 --> 3684.14] To live for Jesus -[3684.14 --> 3685.74] By experiencing -[3685.74 --> 3687.04] Deeply and truly -[3687.04 --> 3688.60] The love of Jesus -[3688.60 --> 3689.72] For you -[3689.72 --> 3691.54] That's kind of -[3691.54 --> 3692.20] The focus of our -[3692.20 --> 3692.92] Text this morning -[3692.92 --> 3694.68] When you go home -[3694.68 --> 3695.04] Today -[3695.04 --> 3696.28] When you leave here -[3696.28 --> 3697.62] And you're having -[3697.62 --> 3698.48] Lunch with grandma -[3698.48 --> 3699.64] And she asks -[3699.64 --> 3700.54] What was church about -[3700.54 --> 3702.26] This is what you can say -[3702.26 --> 3705.64] Jesus gives me faith -[3705.64 --> 3706.70] To be rooted -[3706.70 --> 3707.42] And grounded -[3707.42 --> 3708.42] In his love -[3708.42 --> 3709.44] No matter what -[3709.44 --> 3713.24] That's what this -[3713.24 --> 3713.94] Text is about -[3713.94 --> 3714.80] That's what it means -[3714.80 --> 3716.10] To be rooted -[3716.10 --> 3717.50] And grounded -[3717.50 --> 3718.72] And so that's -[3718.72 --> 3719.18] What we're going to -[3719.18 --> 3720.88] Explore with you guys -[3720.88 --> 3721.88] This morning -[3721.88 --> 3723.64] Now in this text -[3723.64 --> 3725.62] Paul is praying -[3725.62 --> 3728.06] For the young believers -[3728.06 --> 3729.06] At a church -[3729.06 --> 3729.74] In a city -[3729.74 --> 3731.18] Called Ephesus -[3731.18 --> 3732.16] We have a little map -[3732.16 --> 3732.92] I think that we can -[3732.92 --> 3733.60] Throw up there -[3733.60 --> 3736.00] Now Paul probably -[3736.00 --> 3736.90] Wrote this letter -[3736.90 --> 3738.04] Sometime around -[3738.04 --> 3739.04] A.D. 62 -[3739.04 --> 3742.16] He first visited -[3742.16 --> 3742.66] Ephesus -[3742.66 --> 3744.08] In A.D. 52 -[3744.08 --> 3745.38] On what we call -[3745.38 --> 3747.16] His second missionary journey -[3747.16 --> 3748.40] And so he journeyed -[3748.40 --> 3749.48] Through the area -[3749.48 --> 3750.26] And then he comes -[3750.26 --> 3751.40] Back to Ephesus -[3751.40 --> 3752.18] And he actually lives -[3752.18 --> 3752.90] There for two -[3752.90 --> 3753.84] Or three years -[3753.84 --> 3755.60] Between A.D. 54 -[3755.60 --> 3757.18] To 56 -[3757.18 --> 3759.50] But what that means -[3759.50 --> 3760.36] When Paul writes -[3760.36 --> 3760.92] This letter -[3760.92 --> 3761.80] In A.D. 62 -[3761.80 --> 3763.08] Is that the church -[3763.08 --> 3765.04] Is only ten years old -[3765.04 --> 3767.62] Which I think -[3767.62 --> 3768.12] Is interesting -[3768.12 --> 3769.28] Because some of you -[3769.28 --> 3771.36] Are only ten years old -[3771.36 --> 3773.02] Or close to ten -[3773.02 --> 3774.04] Years old -[3774.04 --> 3776.24] And what he wants -[3776.24 --> 3777.38] Them to understand -[3777.38 --> 3778.28] And what he wants -[3778.28 --> 3779.08] Us to see -[3779.08 --> 3779.92] And to know -[3779.92 --> 3781.12] And so then -[3781.12 --> 3782.52] What he prays for -[3782.52 --> 3783.50] For this church -[3783.50 --> 3784.34] And for you -[3784.34 --> 3785.46] Continuing through -[3785.46 --> 3786.62] The generations of faith -[3786.62 --> 3787.88] Is that -[3787.88 --> 3788.72] What did we read? -[3788.72 --> 3792.10] God's glorious riches -[3792.10 --> 3793.96] May strengthen you -[3793.96 --> 3794.80] With power -[3794.80 --> 3795.94] Through his spirit -[3795.94 --> 3797.56] In your inner being -[3797.56 --> 3800.12] Now the first thing -[3800.12 --> 3800.86] I want you to see -[3800.86 --> 3802.02] Is just what -[3802.02 --> 3803.62] God's glorious riches -[3803.62 --> 3804.96] Are -[3804.96 --> 3807.04] Now Paul uses -[3807.04 --> 3807.98] This same phrase -[3807.98 --> 3808.58] Actually -[3808.58 --> 3809.84] In Colossians 1 -[3809.84 --> 3810.68] Verse 27 -[3810.68 --> 3811.64] And I think -[3811.64 --> 3812.48] That helps us see -[3812.48 --> 3813.18] More clearly -[3813.18 --> 3813.82] He says -[3813.82 --> 3815.18] To them -[3815.18 --> 3816.96] That is the Lord's people -[3816.96 --> 3818.60] God has chosen -[3818.60 --> 3819.68] To make known -[3819.68 --> 3820.76] Among the Gentiles -[3820.76 --> 3821.52] Now Gentiles -[3821.52 --> 3823.00] Is the Jewish way -[3823.00 --> 3823.56] Of saying -[3823.56 --> 3824.44] Everybody else -[3824.44 --> 3825.30] Who isn't Jewish -[3825.30 --> 3826.98] The glorious riches -[3826.98 --> 3829.30] Riches of this mystery -[3829.30 --> 3830.86] And there's that phrase again -[3830.86 --> 3832.32] The glorious riches -[3832.32 --> 3834.80] Which is Christ -[3834.80 --> 3836.42] In you -[3836.42 --> 3837.98] The hope of glory -[3837.98 --> 3840.10] Alright one more time -[3840.10 --> 3841.12] To them -[3841.12 --> 3841.98] God has chosen -[3841.98 --> 3842.72] To make known -[3842.72 --> 3843.62] Among the Gentiles -[3843.62 --> 3844.74] The glorious riches -[3844.74 --> 3845.80] Of this mystery -[3845.80 --> 3846.84] Which is Christ -[3846.84 --> 3848.02] In you -[3848.02 --> 3849.06] The hope -[3849.06 --> 3850.12] Of glory -[3850.12 --> 3851.82] And so in Ephesians -[3851.82 --> 3853.16] When Paul prays -[3853.16 --> 3854.76] That God's glorious riches -[3854.76 --> 3856.02] Might strengthen you -[3856.02 --> 3856.90] With his power -[3856.90 --> 3858.66] And through his spirit -[3858.66 --> 3859.68] In your inner being -[3859.68 --> 3862.62] Part of what he means there -[3862.62 --> 3863.26] Is that -[3863.26 --> 3864.34] That Christ -[3864.34 --> 3865.18] Lives -[3865.18 --> 3866.02] In you -[3866.02 --> 3868.04] Right -[3868.04 --> 3868.68] That it would be -[3868.68 --> 3870.46] The presence of Christ -[3870.46 --> 3871.22] In you -[3871.22 --> 3872.46] That strengthens -[3872.46 --> 3873.08] You -[3873.08 --> 3874.38] And that by his spirit -[3874.38 --> 3876.14] In your inner being -[3876.14 --> 3877.64] That's deep in your heart -[3877.64 --> 3877.96] Right -[3877.96 --> 3878.68] Into the core -[3878.68 --> 3879.52] Of who you are -[3879.52 --> 3880.56] You know -[3880.56 --> 3881.78] His nearness -[3881.78 --> 3884.38] So even as close -[3884.38 --> 3885.70] As the person next to you -[3885.70 --> 3886.30] Is sitting -[3886.30 --> 3888.02] Jesus is closer -[3888.02 --> 3889.88] Now -[3889.88 --> 3892.50] I actually can't -[3892.50 --> 3893.20] State -[3893.20 --> 3894.32] Or overstate -[3894.32 --> 3895.40] How cool -[3895.40 --> 3896.58] This actually is -[3896.58 --> 3897.52] Right -[3897.52 --> 3898.54] What it means -[3898.54 --> 3899.24] To be Christian -[3899.24 --> 3900.10] Is to live -[3900.10 --> 3900.96] With Jesus -[3900.96 --> 3902.16] To live in a deep -[3902.16 --> 3902.92] And real -[3902.92 --> 3904.42] Relationship to him -[3904.42 --> 3905.14] Because he -[3905.14 --> 3906.26] By the spirit -[3906.26 --> 3907.72] Is living in you -[3907.72 --> 3908.34] And with you -[3908.34 --> 3910.10] And because by the spirit -[3910.10 --> 3911.52] You are being transformed -[3911.52 --> 3913.60] Into his image -[3913.60 --> 3915.40] Because by the spirit -[3915.40 --> 3916.08] You are becoming -[3916.08 --> 3917.46] Like him -[3917.46 --> 3918.32] Right -[3918.32 --> 3919.56] Because of his glorious -[3919.56 --> 3920.30] Riches -[3920.30 --> 3921.28] Because of his grace -[3921.28 --> 3922.04] To those of us -[3922.04 --> 3922.84] Who believe -[3922.84 --> 3924.58] When God looks at you -[3924.58 --> 3927.24] He sees Jesus -[3927.24 --> 3929.90] And that's amazing -[3929.90 --> 3931.56] Right -[3931.56 --> 3932.72] That's an invitation -[3932.72 --> 3934.02] Into the coolest -[3934.02 --> 3934.98] And deepest -[3934.98 --> 3936.66] And most awesome -[3936.66 --> 3937.42] Relationship -[3937.42 --> 3938.20] That has existed -[3938.20 --> 3939.54] From eternity past -[3939.54 --> 3940.44] In God the Father -[3940.44 --> 3942.04] Son and Holy Spirit -[3942.04 --> 3942.56] You -[3942.56 --> 3944.02] Get to be part of that -[3944.02 --> 3945.24] We -[3945.24 --> 3946.40] By grace -[3946.40 --> 3947.00] Through faith -[3947.00 --> 3948.30] Get to be part of that -[3948.30 --> 3950.64] And that is amazing -[3950.64 --> 3952.96] And so -[3952.96 --> 3955.22] It's a tragedy -[3955.22 --> 3956.50] If -[3956.50 --> 3957.30] If -[3957.30 --> 3959.00] All you think -[3959.00 --> 3959.86] Being a Christian -[3959.86 --> 3960.34] Means -[3960.34 --> 3961.22] Going to church -[3961.22 --> 3961.80] On Sunday -[3961.80 --> 3962.66] And listening -[3962.66 --> 3963.60] To some dusty -[3963.60 --> 3964.52] Old pastor -[3964.52 --> 3965.30] Talk about some -[3965.30 --> 3965.82] Dusty -[3965.82 --> 3966.68] Old book -[3966.68 --> 3968.32] Right -[3968.32 --> 3968.94] If you think -[3968.94 --> 3969.62] Being a Christian -[3969.62 --> 3971.06] Means not doing -[3971.06 --> 3971.62] The things -[3971.62 --> 3972.10] That your -[3972.10 --> 3972.92] Non-churchgoing -[3972.92 --> 3973.28] Friends -[3973.28 --> 3973.98] Get to do -[3973.98 --> 3976.52] That's -[3976.52 --> 3977.76] Heartbreaking -[3977.76 --> 3979.02] Because you -[3979.02 --> 3980.02] Miss this truth -[3980.02 --> 3981.04] Right -[3981.04 --> 3981.36] You're going to -[3981.36 --> 3981.86] Miss on the -[3981.86 --> 3982.70] Most amazing -[3982.70 --> 3983.60] Thing that God -[3983.60 --> 3984.32] Has prepared -[3984.32 --> 3985.06] For you -[3985.06 --> 3986.00] For you guys -[3986.00 --> 3987.24] Right -[3987.24 --> 3988.08] Being a Christian -[3988.08 --> 3989.28] Means being -[3989.28 --> 3990.20] In a relationship -[3990.20 --> 3990.72] To God -[3990.72 --> 3991.78] Because of Jesus -[3991.78 --> 3992.92] It means trusting -[3992.92 --> 3993.88] God more -[3993.88 --> 3994.66] Than you trust -[3994.66 --> 3995.14] Yourself -[3995.14 --> 3996.30] It means being -[3996.30 --> 3997.10] More loved -[3997.10 --> 3997.58] Than you could -[3997.58 --> 3998.86] Ever imagine -[3998.86 --> 3999.60] Possible -[3999.60 --> 4001.98] And I want -[4001.98 --> 4002.80] That for you guys -[4002.80 --> 4004.82] And I can say -[4004.82 --> 4005.52] With confidence -[4005.52 --> 4006.28] Your counselors -[4006.28 --> 4007.92] Want that for you guys -[4007.92 --> 4009.00] Your parents -[4009.00 --> 4010.24] Want that for you guys -[4010.24 --> 4010.84] Everyone here -[4010.84 --> 4011.38] In this church -[4011.38 --> 4012.02] Wants that -[4012.02 --> 4013.00] For you guys -[4013.00 --> 4015.02] And the way -[4015.02 --> 4016.00] You get that -[4016.00 --> 4018.00] Is the second thing -[4018.00 --> 4018.80] That Paul prays for -[4018.80 --> 4020.62] In verse 17 -[4020.62 --> 4021.46] We continue -[4021.46 --> 4021.86] He says -[4021.86 --> 4023.72] I pray that Christ -[4023.72 --> 4024.50] May dwell -[4024.50 --> 4025.94] In your hearts -[4025.94 --> 4027.86] Through faith -[4027.86 --> 4029.88] Faith -[4029.88 --> 4032.24] Is the answer -[4032.24 --> 4033.78] Faith -[4033.78 --> 4035.04] Is how you -[4035.04 --> 4035.74] Are brought -[4035.74 --> 4036.96] Into union -[4036.96 --> 4037.56] With Jesus -[4037.56 --> 4038.50] And into relationship -[4038.50 --> 4038.90] With God -[4038.90 --> 4039.76] Faith -[4039.76 --> 4041.80] Means believing -[4041.80 --> 4043.00] It means trusting -[4043.00 --> 4044.52] Faith is assurance -[4044.52 --> 4045.32] When you doubt -[4045.32 --> 4046.52] Faith is worship -[4046.52 --> 4047.58] When you have questions -[4047.58 --> 4048.90] Faith is learning -[4048.90 --> 4050.28] The truth of who God is -[4050.28 --> 4051.88] And faith is trusting -[4051.88 --> 4052.86] In the promises -[4052.86 --> 4054.12] That you learn about -[4054.12 --> 4056.12] And so -[4056.12 --> 4057.16] Simultaneously -[4057.16 --> 4058.08] For us -[4058.08 --> 4059.46] Faith is something -[4059.46 --> 4060.90] That you receive -[4060.90 --> 4062.68] Faith is something -[4062.68 --> 4063.60] You believe -[4063.60 --> 4064.92] And faith -[4064.92 --> 4066.38] Then after those -[4066.38 --> 4067.00] Two things -[4067.00 --> 4067.70] Is something -[4067.70 --> 4068.70] You achieve -[4068.70 --> 4070.70] Faith is something -[4070.70 --> 4071.74] You receive -[4071.74 --> 4072.84] And believe -[4072.84 --> 4074.08] And then after that -[4074.08 --> 4075.48] Something you achieve -[4075.48 --> 4077.24] So first -[4077.24 --> 4077.98] Quickly -[4077.98 --> 4079.80] Faith is something -[4079.80 --> 4081.34] You receive -[4081.34 --> 4084.08] Earlier in Paul's -[4084.08 --> 4084.46] Letter -[4084.46 --> 4085.80] To the church -[4085.80 --> 4087.12] In Ephesus -[4087.12 --> 4088.22] He writes -[4088.22 --> 4089.72] In chapter 2 -[4089.72 --> 4090.24] Verse 8 -[4090.24 --> 4091.90] For it is by grace -[4091.90 --> 4093.08] You have been saved -[4093.08 --> 4094.06] Through faith -[4094.06 --> 4095.12] And this is not -[4095.12 --> 4096.00] From yourselves -[4096.00 --> 4097.60] It is the gift -[4097.60 --> 4099.32] Of God -[4099.32 --> 4101.40] Faith is a gift -[4101.40 --> 4103.24] Faith is something -[4103.24 --> 4104.72] That God gives you -[4104.72 --> 4106.50] And in his giving you faith -[4106.50 --> 4107.62] Because of his grace -[4107.62 --> 4108.66] You are united -[4108.66 --> 4109.56] To Christ -[4109.56 --> 4110.48] Right -[4110.48 --> 4111.68] Faith is something -[4111.68 --> 4112.60] You receive -[4112.60 --> 4115.74] But faith is also -[4115.74 --> 4117.20] Something you believe -[4117.20 --> 4119.62] That in Romans 10 -[4119.62 --> 4121.06] You can read -[4121.06 --> 4124.00] For it is with your heart -[4124.00 --> 4124.68] That you believe -[4124.68 --> 4125.58] And are justified -[4125.58 --> 4127.08] And it is with your mouth -[4127.08 --> 4128.24] That you profess -[4128.24 --> 4129.14] Your faith -[4129.14 --> 4130.38] And are saved -[4130.38 --> 4133.16] In order to profess -[4133.16 --> 4133.66] Your faith -[4133.66 --> 4134.54] In order to say -[4134.54 --> 4135.90] This is what I believe -[4135.90 --> 4137.96] There has to be something -[4137.96 --> 4138.90] You can say -[4138.90 --> 4140.10] This is what I believe -[4140.10 --> 4141.28] Right -[4141.28 --> 4142.60] There has to be a set -[4142.60 --> 4143.88] Of ideas -[4143.88 --> 4145.96] Or there is some content -[4145.96 --> 4146.68] There -[4146.68 --> 4148.20] There is a doctrine -[4148.20 --> 4149.04] There is the word -[4149.04 --> 4149.50] That we use -[4149.50 --> 4150.38] In the church -[4150.38 --> 4150.80] Right -[4150.80 --> 4151.52] That tells you -[4151.52 --> 4152.48] About who you are -[4152.48 --> 4153.90] That tells you -[4153.90 --> 4154.86] About the world -[4154.86 --> 4155.84] That God has created -[4155.84 --> 4156.78] And what is happening -[4156.78 --> 4157.10] In it -[4157.10 --> 4157.74] And what is wrong -[4157.74 --> 4158.06] With it -[4158.06 --> 4158.82] That tells you -[4158.82 --> 4160.16] About who God is -[4160.16 --> 4161.56] And what he has done -[4161.56 --> 4163.20] To save us -[4163.20 --> 4164.54] From the brokenness -[4164.54 --> 4165.64] That is in the world -[4165.64 --> 4166.30] That we are in -[4166.30 --> 4167.16] Right -[4167.16 --> 4168.28] Faith as something -[4168.28 --> 4169.12] You believe -[4169.12 --> 4170.44] Means that there is -[4170.44 --> 4171.02] Content -[4171.02 --> 4172.04] Content to it -[4172.04 --> 4173.18] That we can learn -[4173.18 --> 4174.58] And that we can grow in -[4174.58 --> 4176.14] In fact -[4176.14 --> 4178.08] The Bible says -[4178.08 --> 4179.96] That a good minister -[4179.96 --> 4181.40] Of Christ Jesus -[4181.40 --> 4182.50] Is nourished -[4182.50 --> 4183.48] On the truths -[4183.48 --> 4184.26] Of the faith -[4184.26 --> 4185.94] And of the good teaching -[4185.94 --> 4187.20] That you have followed -[4187.20 --> 4189.72] And so there is something there -[4189.72 --> 4190.84] That fills you -[4190.84 --> 4192.24] And feeds you -[4192.24 --> 4194.14] Faith -[4194.14 --> 4195.86] Is something you receive -[4195.86 --> 4197.48] And faith -[4197.48 --> 4199.80] Is something you believe -[4199.80 --> 4202.42] And then -[4202.42 --> 4203.94] After receiving -[4203.94 --> 4205.30] And believing -[4205.30 --> 4207.04] Faith becomes -[4207.04 --> 4208.00] Something you -[4208.00 --> 4209.10] Achieve -[4209.10 --> 4210.48] And what I mean by that -[4210.48 --> 4211.38] Is faith becomes -[4211.38 --> 4212.36] Something you do -[4212.36 --> 4214.18] Right -[4214.18 --> 4214.82] James 2 -[4214.82 --> 4215.82] Says -[4215.82 --> 4217.70] Faith by itself -[4217.70 --> 4218.66] Is not -[4218.66 --> 4219.62] If it is not -[4219.62 --> 4220.58] Accompanied by action -[4220.58 --> 4221.24] Is dead -[4221.24 --> 4223.12] I will show you -[4223.12 --> 4223.84] My faith -[4223.84 --> 4224.84] By my deeds -[4224.84 --> 4226.46] The Bible -[4226.46 --> 4227.06] Talks about -[4227.06 --> 4227.74] In different places -[4227.74 --> 4228.96] The obedience -[4228.96 --> 4230.16] That comes from -[4230.16 --> 4230.56] Faith -[4230.56 --> 4232.82] But -[4232.82 --> 4233.80] It is really important -[4233.80 --> 4234.60] For you guys to hear -[4234.60 --> 4235.90] That is the order -[4235.90 --> 4237.38] Right -[4237.38 --> 4237.86] Faith -[4237.86 --> 4238.68] First -[4238.68 --> 4239.08] That is -[4239.08 --> 4239.68] The -[4239.68 --> 4242.28] Receiving -[4242.28 --> 4243.24] And believing -[4243.24 --> 4244.08] First -[4244.08 --> 4245.34] Obedience -[4245.34 --> 4246.42] Follows -[4246.42 --> 4248.18] And that is an important -[4248.18 --> 4249.30] Distinction to keep -[4249.30 --> 4249.76] In our minds -[4249.76 --> 4250.56] Because sometimes -[4250.56 --> 4252.32] We expect the order -[4252.32 --> 4253.56] To be the other way around -[4253.56 --> 4255.50] We expect obedience -[4255.50 --> 4256.78] Before faith -[4256.78 --> 4257.28] Has been -[4257.28 --> 4257.84] Has been -[4257.84 --> 4258.42] Manifest -[4258.42 --> 4258.60] Or -[4258.60 --> 4259.88] Before faith -[4259.88 --> 4260.54] Has been given -[4260.54 --> 4261.92] So -[4261.92 --> 4262.84] This actually -[4262.84 --> 4263.64] Maybe is a word -[4263.64 --> 4264.34] For you parents -[4264.34 --> 4265.54] Out there -[4265.54 --> 4268.72] If you -[4268.72 --> 4269.56] Want -[4269.56 --> 4270.64] Obedience -[4270.64 --> 4271.34] To God -[4271.34 --> 4272.10] In your kids -[4272.10 --> 4272.70] Lives -[4272.70 --> 4274.92] Don't start -[4274.92 --> 4275.60] By talking to them -[4275.60 --> 4276.22] About rules -[4276.22 --> 4278.54] Talk to them -[4278.54 --> 4279.16] About faith -[4279.16 --> 4280.78] Right -[4280.78 --> 4281.32] If you're going to -[4281.32 --> 4282.40] Expect the kind -[4282.40 --> 4283.54] Of obedience -[4283.54 --> 4285.08] To Christ -[4285.08 --> 4285.88] Called for -[4285.88 --> 4286.64] In the Bible -[4286.64 --> 4287.38] Then -[4287.38 --> 4289.28] Like my prayer -[4289.28 --> 4289.74] Is that -[4289.74 --> 4290.52] You would be -[4290.52 --> 4291.50] Showing them -[4291.50 --> 4292.92] The vitality -[4292.92 --> 4293.74] Of a faith -[4293.74 --> 4294.82] Received -[4294.82 --> 4295.74] And believed -[4295.74 --> 4296.46] First -[4296.46 --> 4302.10] May that be -[4302.10 --> 4302.88] Compelling -[4302.88 --> 4303.70] Enough -[4303.70 --> 4304.34] To them -[4304.34 --> 4305.42] So that -[4305.42 --> 4305.98] The obedience -[4305.98 --> 4306.60] Can follow -[4306.60 --> 4309.52] Demonstrate -[4309.52 --> 4310.18] A transformed -[4310.18 --> 4310.70] Life -[4310.70 --> 4311.84] And then see -[4311.84 --> 4312.20] How God -[4312.20 --> 4312.80] Transforms -[4312.80 --> 4313.08] The people -[4313.08 --> 4313.90] Around you -[4313.90 --> 4316.60] Christ -[4316.60 --> 4317.50] Dwells -[4317.50 --> 4318.16] In your -[4318.16 --> 4318.78] Hearts -[4318.78 --> 4320.06] Through faith -[4320.06 --> 4320.42] That is -[4320.42 --> 4321.04] Received -[4321.04 --> 4322.04] Believed -[4322.04 --> 4323.08] And achieved -[4323.08 --> 4325.18] And this -[4325.18 --> 4326.02] Pulling these -[4326.02 --> 4326.70] Things together -[4326.70 --> 4327.46] Now -[4327.46 --> 4328.18] Is what it -[4328.18 --> 4328.50] Means -[4328.50 --> 4328.98] To be -[4328.98 --> 4329.46] Rooted -[4329.46 --> 4330.84] And grounded -[4330.84 --> 4331.58] Or rooted -[4331.58 --> 4332.60] And established -[4332.60 --> 4333.44] Depending on -[4333.44 --> 4333.98] The translation -[4333.98 --> 4334.94] You read -[4334.94 --> 4335.54] Right -[4335.54 --> 4335.82] Paul -[4335.82 --> 4336.44] He continues -[4336.44 --> 4337.00] His prayer -[4337.00 --> 4337.96] In verse 17 -[4337.96 --> 4339.24] Which is your -[4339.24 --> 4340.30] Theme for this -[4340.30 --> 4340.46] Year -[4340.46 --> 4340.98] And I pray -[4340.98 --> 4341.54] That you -[4341.54 --> 4342.76] Being rooted -[4342.76 --> 4344.06] And grounded -[4344.06 --> 4345.80] In love -[4345.80 --> 4347.64] Rooted -[4347.64 --> 4348.92] And grounded -[4348.92 --> 4350.76] Being rooted -[4350.76 --> 4351.64] And grounded -[4351.64 --> 4352.96] In the order -[4352.96 --> 4354.08] Of Paul's -[4354.08 --> 4354.64] Text -[4354.64 --> 4355.82] Here -[4355.82 --> 4356.36] Is the -[4356.36 --> 4357.08] Result -[4357.08 --> 4358.18] Of the -[4358.18 --> 4358.68] Spirit -[4358.68 --> 4359.48] Strengthening -[4359.48 --> 4359.96] Your inner -[4359.96 --> 4360.26] Being -[4360.26 --> 4360.66] And the -[4360.66 --> 4360.98] Result -[4360.98 --> 4361.62] Of Christ -[4361.62 --> 4362.34] Dwelling -[4362.34 --> 4362.86] In your -[4362.86 --> 4363.18] Hearts -[4363.18 --> 4364.18] By faith -[4364.18 --> 4364.52] And so -[4364.52 --> 4364.94] Rooted -[4364.94 --> 4365.74] And grounded -[4365.74 --> 4366.24] Isn't -[4366.24 --> 4366.58] Something -[4366.58 --> 4367.30] We do -[4367.30 --> 4367.80] It's -[4367.80 --> 4368.14] Something -[4368.14 --> 4369.18] That comes -[4369.18 --> 4370.34] As God -[4370.34 --> 4370.74] Does -[4370.74 --> 4371.14] Something -[4371.14 --> 4371.62] In -[4371.62 --> 4372.64] Us -[4372.64 --> 4374.54] Now these -[4374.54 --> 4375.14] Two words -[4375.14 --> 4376.68] Convey -[4376.68 --> 4377.98] An image -[4377.98 --> 4378.26] And you -[4378.26 --> 4378.52] Kind of -[4378.52 --> 4379.06] Saw that -[4379.06 --> 4379.42] Already -[4379.42 --> 4379.92] In the -[4379.92 --> 4380.92] Image -[4380.92 --> 4382.08] For today -[4382.08 --> 4382.48] In the -[4382.48 --> 4382.76] Screen -[4382.76 --> 4383.70] Of a -[4383.70 --> 4384.02] Plant -[4384.02 --> 4385.14] Right -[4385.14 --> 4385.58] Rooted -[4385.58 --> 4386.36] Conveys -[4386.36 --> 4386.86] An image -[4386.86 --> 4387.16] Of a -[4387.16 --> 4387.48] Tree -[4387.48 --> 4388.64] With deep -[4388.64 --> 4389.10] Roots -[4389.10 --> 4389.70] That dig -[4389.70 --> 4390.22] Down -[4390.22 --> 4390.86] Into the -[4390.86 --> 4391.24] Ground -[4391.24 --> 4391.92] And hold -[4391.92 --> 4392.52] It firm -[4392.52 --> 4393.12] No matter -[4393.12 --> 4393.94] What storms -[4393.94 --> 4395.00] Or winds -[4395.00 --> 4395.60] May come -[4395.60 --> 4397.48] And grounded -[4397.48 --> 4397.98] Is a -[4397.98 --> 4398.56] Similar word -[4398.56 --> 4398.92] It's a -[4398.92 --> 4399.40] Word that -[4399.40 --> 4399.70] Means -[4399.70 --> 4401.16] Established -[4401.16 --> 4402.40] Or foundational -[4402.40 --> 4404.14] It's firm -[4404.14 --> 4404.92] Like the -[4404.92 --> 4405.62] Foundation -[4405.62 --> 4405.94] Of a -[4405.94 --> 4406.30] House -[4406.30 --> 4407.58] I don't -[4407.58 --> 4407.98] Know if -[4407.98 --> 4408.84] In our -[4408.84 --> 4409.06] House -[4409.06 --> 4409.32] We have -[4409.32 --> 4409.66] A crawl -[4409.66 --> 4410.12] Space -[4410.12 --> 4410.86] And in -[4410.86 --> 4411.18] The crawl -[4411.18 --> 4411.48] Space -[4411.48 --> 4411.78] You can -[4411.78 --> 4412.18] Go under -[4412.18 --> 4412.44] There -[4412.44 --> 4412.82] And see -[4412.82 --> 4413.40] The concrete -[4413.40 --> 4414.24] Walls -[4414.24 --> 4414.58] And then -[4414.58 --> 4415.08] Below -[4415.08 --> 4415.52] That -[4415.52 --> 4415.90] Is the -[4415.90 --> 4416.30] Footings -[4416.30 --> 4416.58] Of the -[4416.58 --> 4417.08] Foundation -[4417.08 --> 4418.94] My son -[4418.94 --> 4419.32] Malachi -[4419.32 --> 4420.16] Is the -[4420.16 --> 4420.52] Only one -[4420.52 --> 4420.76] Of us -[4420.76 --> 4421.18] Who fits -[4421.18 --> 4421.52] In the -[4421.52 --> 4421.76] Crawl -[4421.76 --> 4422.00] Space -[4422.00 --> 4422.30] And so -[4422.30 --> 4422.70] We send -[4422.70 --> 4422.98] Him in -[4422.98 --> 4423.14] There -[4423.14 --> 4423.50] All the -[4423.50 --> 4423.74] Time -[4423.74 --> 4424.06] To get -[4424.06 --> 4424.32] Stuff -[4424.32 --> 4424.80] For us -[4424.80 --> 4425.68] But if -[4425.68 --> 4425.96] He went -[4425.96 --> 4426.20] Up to -[4426.20 --> 4426.70] Those walls -[4426.70 --> 4426.96] On the -[4426.96 --> 4427.32] Outside -[4427.32 --> 4427.74] And pushed -[4427.74 --> 4428.12] As hard -[4428.12 --> 4428.34] As he -[4428.34 --> 4428.60] Could -[4428.60 --> 4429.58] They -[4429.58 --> 4429.80] Wouldn't -[4429.80 --> 4430.10] Move -[4430.10 --> 4432.48] That -[4432.48 --> 4433.02] Foundation -[4433.02 --> 4433.46] Holds -[4433.46 --> 4433.72] Up the -[4433.72 --> 4434.12] Entire -[4434.12 --> 4434.52] House -[4434.52 --> 4436.36] That's -[4436.36 --> 4436.54] The -[4436.54 --> 4436.82] Image -[4436.82 --> 4437.10] Here -[4437.10 --> 4439.20] Build your -[4439.20 --> 4439.58] House on -[4439.58 --> 4439.94] A rock -[4439.94 --> 4440.18] And when -[4440.18 --> 4440.52] The flood -[4440.52 --> 4440.80] Waters -[4440.80 --> 4441.20] Come -[4441.20 --> 4441.60] It will -[4441.60 --> 4441.98] Not be -[4441.98 --> 4442.28] Washed -[4442.28 --> 4442.58] Away -[4442.58 --> 4444.66] But again -[4444.66 --> 4446.14] Hear this -[4446.14 --> 4446.38] Very -[4446.38 --> 4446.84] Clearly -[4446.84 --> 4447.98] Being -[4447.98 --> 4448.46] Rooted -[4448.46 --> 4448.96] And -[4448.96 --> 4450.06] Grounded -[4450.06 --> 4450.92] Comes -[4450.92 --> 4451.28] As a -[4451.28 --> 4451.70] Result -[4451.70 --> 4452.08] Of the -[4452.08 --> 4452.28] Holy -[4452.28 --> 4452.66] Spirit -[4452.66 --> 4453.30] Strengthening -[4453.30 --> 4453.50] Your -[4453.50 --> 4453.70] Inner -[4453.70 --> 4454.04] Being -[4454.04 --> 4454.26] And -[4454.26 --> 4454.78] Christ -[4454.78 --> 4455.28] Dwelling -[4455.28 --> 4455.80] In -[4455.80 --> 4455.94] You -[4455.94 --> 4456.32] Jesus -[4456.32 --> 4456.76] Dwelling -[4456.76 --> 4457.02] In -[4457.02 --> 4457.18] You -[4457.18 --> 4457.68] You -[4457.68 --> 4458.08] Being -[4458.08 --> 4458.32] In -[4458.32 --> 4458.94] Relationship -[4458.94 --> 4459.36] To -[4459.36 --> 4459.62] Him -[4459.62 --> 4459.76] The -[4459.76 --> 4459.92] Holy -[4459.92 --> 4460.22] Spirit -[4460.22 --> 4460.58] Working -[4460.58 --> 4461.14] In -[4461.14 --> 4461.32] You -[4461.32 --> 4461.72] That's -[4461.72 --> 4461.86] What -[4461.86 --> 4462.48] Plants -[4462.48 --> 4462.88] You -[4462.88 --> 4463.96] Firmly -[4463.96 --> 4464.14] And -[4464.14 --> 4465.00] Establishes -[4465.00 --> 4465.18] You -[4465.18 --> 4465.42] Gives -[4465.42 --> 4465.50] You -[4465.50 --> 4465.64] A -[4465.64 --> 4466.22] Foundation -[4466.22 --> 4467.00] In -[4467.00 --> 4467.34] Life -[4467.34 --> 4467.74] So -[4467.74 --> 4468.04] That -[4468.04 --> 4468.20] You -[4468.20 --> 4468.38] Will -[4468.38 --> 4468.58] Not -[4468.58 --> 4468.76] Be -[4468.76 --> 4469.14] Shaken -[4469.14 --> 4470.06] So -[4470.06 --> 4470.38] That -[4470.38 --> 4470.54] You -[4470.54 --> 4470.72] Can -[4470.72 --> 4471.08] Stand -[4471.08 --> 4471.42] Against -[4471.42 --> 4471.62] The -[4471.62 --> 4471.98] Devil's -[4471.98 --> 4472.26] Lies -[4472.26 --> 4472.58] So -[4472.58 --> 4472.88] That -[4472.88 --> 4473.04] You -[4473.04 --> 4473.22] Can -[4473.22 --> 4473.64] Endure -[4473.64 --> 4474.50] Whatever -[4474.50 --> 4475.16] Life -[4475.16 --> 4475.72] Throws -[4475.72 --> 4475.88] At -[4475.88 --> 4476.06] You -[4476.06 --> 4481.68] In -[4481.68 --> 4482.68] In -[4482.68 --> 4483.60] 1987 -[4483.60 --> 4484.84] Through -[4484.84 --> 4485.64] 1991 -[4485.64 --> 4487.02] A -[4487.02 --> 4487.30] Group -[4487.30 --> 4487.68] Of -[4487.68 --> 4488.78] Scientists -[4488.78 --> 4489.14] Got -[4489.14 --> 4489.44] Together -[4489.44 --> 4489.62] Now -[4489.62 --> 4489.70] I -[4489.70 --> 4489.84] Know -[4489.84 --> 4490.04] This -[4490.04 --> 4490.16] Was -[4490.16 --> 4490.58] Before -[4490.58 --> 4491.24] All -[4491.24 --> 4491.40] Of -[4491.40 --> 4491.52] You -[4491.52 --> 4491.70] Were -[4491.70 --> 4492.00] Born -[4492.00 --> 4492.92] Some -[4492.92 --> 4493.04] Of -[4493.04 --> 4493.14] Your -[4493.14 --> 4493.56] Parents -[4493.56 --> 4493.76] Were -[4493.76 --> 4494.00] Born -[4494.00 --> 4494.36] Around -[4494.36 --> 4494.60] This -[4494.60 --> 4494.88] Time -[4494.88 --> 4497.00] But -[4497.00 --> 4497.24] A -[4497.24 --> 4497.42] Group -[4497.42 --> 4497.56] Of -[4497.56 --> 4498.06] Scientists -[4498.06 --> 4498.24] And -[4498.24 --> 4498.62] Engineers -[4498.62 --> 4498.86] Came -[4498.86 --> 4499.24] Together -[4499.24 --> 4499.58] And -[4499.58 --> 4499.76] They -[4499.76 --> 4500.18] Built -[4500.18 --> 4500.72] What -[4500.72 --> 4500.94] Is -[4500.94 --> 4501.26] Called -[4501.26 --> 4502.10] Biosphere -[4502.10 --> 4502.48] Two -[4502.48 --> 4503.64] Now -[4503.64 --> 4503.66] Now -[4503.66 --> 4503.82] A -[4503.82 --> 4504.54] Biosphere -[4504.54 --> 4505.80] Is -[4505.80 --> 4505.96] I -[4505.96 --> 4506.08] Think -[4506.08 --> 4506.18] We -[4506.18 --> 4506.30] Have -[4506.30 --> 4506.40] An -[4506.40 --> 4506.78] Image -[4506.78 --> 4507.18] Yeah -[4507.18 --> 4507.82] Biosphere -[4507.82 --> 4508.88] Is -[4508.88 --> 4509.66] An -[4509.66 --> 4510.52] Enclosed -[4510.52 --> 4511.34] Habitat -[4511.34 --> 4511.96] So -[4511.96 --> 4512.54] Inside -[4512.54 --> 4512.78] The -[4512.78 --> 4513.30] Habitat -[4513.30 --> 4514.18] Is -[4514.18 --> 4514.32] A -[4514.32 --> 4514.64] Fully -[4514.64 --> 4515.38] Functioning -[4515.38 --> 4516.20] Ecosystem -[4516.20 --> 4516.82] Completely -[4516.82 --> 4517.16] Cut -[4517.16 --> 4517.56] Off -[4517.56 --> 4518.02] From -[4518.02 --> 4518.16] The -[4518.16 --> 4518.52] Outside -[4518.52 --> 4518.86] World -[4518.86 --> 4520.28] And -[4520.28 --> 4520.44] From -[4520.44 --> 4521.12] 1991 -[4521.12 --> 4521.72] To -[4521.72 --> 4522.48] 1993 -[4522.48 --> 4523.18] They -[4523.18 --> 4523.50] Ran -[4523.50 --> 4523.66] An -[4523.66 --> 4524.32] Experiment -[4524.32 --> 4525.26] To -[4525.26 --> 4525.84] Test -[4525.84 --> 4526.18] What -[4526.18 --> 4526.30] It -[4526.30 --> 4526.60] Looked -[4526.60 --> 4526.90] Like -[4526.90 --> 4527.38] To -[4527.38 --> 4527.86] Live -[4527.86 --> 4528.10] In -[4528.10 --> 4528.26] That -[4528.26 --> 4528.58] Kind -[4528.58 --> 4528.70] Of -[4528.70 --> 4529.46] Enclosed -[4529.46 --> 4530.16] Space -[4530.16 --> 4531.32] For -[4531.32 --> 4531.54] Two -[4531.54 --> 4531.92] Years -[4531.92 --> 4532.92] The -[4532.92 --> 4533.22] Idea -[4533.22 --> 4533.52] Was -[4533.52 --> 4533.68] To -[4533.68 --> 4534.00] See -[4534.00 --> 4534.62] What -[4534.62 --> 4534.72] It -[4534.72 --> 4534.88] Might -[4534.88 --> 4535.08] Look -[4535.08 --> 4535.28] Like -[4535.28 --> 4535.42] To -[4535.42 --> 4535.58] Build -[4535.58 --> 4535.72] A -[4535.72 --> 4536.18] Habitat -[4536.18 --> 4536.42] One -[4536.42 --> 4536.68] Day -[4536.68 --> 4536.94] On -[4536.94 --> 4537.08] The -[4537.08 --> 4537.44] Moon -[4537.44 --> 4537.74] Or -[4537.74 --> 4538.00] On -[4538.00 --> 4538.36] Mars -[4538.36 --> 4538.98] To -[4538.98 --> 4539.18] See -[4539.18 --> 4539.42] What -[4539.42 --> 4540.36] How -[4540.36 --> 4540.78] Future -[4540.78 --> 4541.28] Space -[4541.28 --> 4541.98] Exploration -[4541.98 --> 4542.28] Could -[4542.28 --> 4542.42] Be -[4542.42 --> 4542.70] Helped -[4542.70 --> 4544.22] And -[4544.22 --> 4544.78] Inside -[4544.78 --> 4545.06] You -[4545.06 --> 4545.18] Can -[4545.18 --> 4545.42] See -[4545.42 --> 4545.66] There -[4545.66 --> 4546.22] Trees -[4546.22 --> 4546.42] And -[4546.42 --> 4546.56] There -[4546.56 --> 4547.18] Water -[4547.18 --> 4547.76] Flowing -[4547.76 --> 4547.98] And -[4547.98 --> 4548.16] Little -[4548.16 --> 4548.50] Fake -[4548.50 --> 4548.90] Rivers -[4548.90 --> 4549.32] And -[4549.32 --> 4549.46] The -[4549.46 --> 4549.66] Life -[4549.66 --> 4549.92] Set -[4549.92 --> 4550.10] Up -[4550.10 --> 4551.98] And -[4551.98 --> 4552.08] One -[4552.08 --> 4552.14] Of -[4552.14 --> 4552.20] The -[4552.20 --> 4552.40] Interesting -[4552.40 --> 4552.64] Things -[4552.64 --> 4552.78] That -[4552.78 --> 4553.28] Happened -[4553.28 --> 4554.00] At -[4554.00 --> 4554.46] First -[4554.46 --> 4554.86] The -[4554.86 --> 4555.42] Trees -[4555.42 --> 4555.84] Within -[4555.84 --> 4556.50] Biosphere -[4556.50 --> 4556.86] Two -[4556.86 --> 4557.68] Grew -[4557.68 --> 4558.10] Up -[4558.10 --> 4558.58] More -[4558.58 --> 4559.08] Quickly -[4559.08 --> 4559.44] Than -[4559.44 --> 4559.84] Trees -[4559.84 --> 4560.10] Do -[4560.10 --> 4560.36] In -[4560.36 --> 4560.70] Nature -[4560.70 --> 4562.14] Because -[4562.14 --> 4562.40] The -[4562.40 --> 4563.08] Ecosystem -[4563.08 --> 4563.68] Is -[4563.68 --> 4563.88] The -[4563.88 --> 4564.52] Perfect -[4564.52 --> 4565.24] Balance -[4565.24 --> 4565.74] Of -[4565.74 --> 4566.34] Oxygen -[4566.34 --> 4566.62] And -[4566.62 --> 4567.12] Nitrogen -[4567.12 --> 4567.34] And -[4567.34 --> 4567.52] The -[4567.52 --> 4567.94] Soil -[4567.94 --> 4568.26] Has -[4568.26 --> 4568.84] All -[4568.84 --> 4569.00] The -[4569.00 --> 4569.44] Carbon -[4569.44 --> 4569.68] That -[4569.68 --> 4569.82] Is -[4569.82 --> 4570.36] Required -[4570.36 --> 4570.80] And -[4570.80 --> 4571.22] Everything -[4571.22 --> 4571.56] Is -[4571.56 --> 4572.32] Perfectly -[4572.32 --> 4572.62] Set -[4572.62 --> 4572.78] Up -[4572.78 --> 4572.94] With -[4572.94 --> 4573.06] The -[4573.06 --> 4573.24] Right -[4573.24 --> 4573.56] Levels -[4573.56 --> 4573.66] Of -[4573.66 --> 4574.34] Nitrates -[4574.34 --> 4574.50] And -[4574.50 --> 4574.68] So -[4574.68 --> 4574.88] On -[4574.88 --> 4575.98] Counselor -[4575.98 --> 4576.26] Andrew -[4576.26 --> 4576.48] Can -[4576.48 --> 4576.82] Explain -[4576.82 --> 4577.00] That -[4577.00 --> 4577.20] Better -[4577.20 --> 4577.38] Than -[4577.38 --> 4577.54] I -[4577.54 --> 4577.72] Can -[4577.72 --> 4579.26] But -[4579.26 --> 4579.58] Everything -[4579.58 --> 4579.86] Was -[4579.86 --> 4580.36] Perfect -[4580.36 --> 4581.20] And -[4581.20 --> 4581.36] So -[4581.36 --> 4581.56] The -[4581.56 --> 4582.12] Trees -[4582.12 --> 4582.78] Just -[4582.78 --> 4583.96] Grew -[4583.96 --> 4584.20] Up -[4584.20 --> 4584.58] So -[4584.58 --> 4585.06] Quickly -[4585.06 --> 4585.34] And -[4585.34 --> 4585.56] So -[4585.56 --> 4586.12] Fast -[4586.12 --> 4587.32] But -[4587.32 --> 4587.56] After -[4587.56 --> 4587.82] Two -[4587.82 --> 4588.28] Years -[4588.28 --> 4589.44] They -[4589.44 --> 4589.68] Started -[4589.68 --> 4590.04] Falling -[4590.04 --> 4590.28] Over -[4590.28 --> 4592.54] They -[4592.54 --> 4592.94] Weren't -[4592.94 --> 4593.40] Strong -[4593.40 --> 4593.84] Enough -[4593.84 --> 4595.50] And -[4595.50 --> 4595.62] They -[4595.62 --> 4595.94] Just -[4595.94 --> 4596.82] Top -[4596.82 --> 4596.84] Top -[4596.84 --> 4598.90] Right -[4598.90 --> 4599.08] Their -[4599.08 --> 4599.34] Growth -[4599.34 --> 4599.58] Was -[4599.58 --> 4600.14] Stunted -[4600.14 --> 4601.38] Because -[4601.38 --> 4602.78] What -[4602.78 --> 4603.18] Happens -[4603.18 --> 4603.38] In -[4603.38 --> 4603.82] Nature -[4603.82 --> 4605.36] Is -[4605.36 --> 4606.08] Wind -[4606.08 --> 4607.08] And -[4607.08 --> 4607.38] Bad -[4607.38 --> 4607.82] Weather -[4607.82 --> 4609.52] Stresses -[4609.52 --> 4609.78] The -[4609.78 --> 4610.18] Wood -[4610.18 --> 4610.82] And -[4610.82 --> 4611.60] Stresses -[4611.60 --> 4611.82] The -[4611.82 --> 4612.18] Tree -[4612.18 --> 4613.12] And -[4613.12 --> 4613.30] That -[4613.30 --> 4614.02] Stress -[4614.02 --> 4614.66] Causes -[4614.66 --> 4614.98] The -[4614.98 --> 4615.22] Tree -[4615.22 --> 4615.46] To -[4615.46 --> 4615.78] Dig -[4615.78 --> 4616.18] Deeper -[4616.18 --> 4616.50] Roots -[4616.50 --> 4616.80] Into -[4616.80 --> 4617.00] The -[4617.00 --> 4617.40] Ground -[4617.40 --> 4617.84] To -[4617.84 --> 4618.10] Hold -[4618.10 --> 4618.48] Itself -[4618.48 --> 4618.74] More -[4618.74 --> 4619.20] Firmly -[4619.20 --> 4619.68] That -[4619.68 --> 4620.26] Stress -[4620.26 --> 4620.56] On -[4620.56 --> 4620.72] The -[4620.72 --> 4621.04] Tree -[4621.04 --> 4621.84] Causes -[4621.84 --> 4622.04] It -[4622.04 --> 4622.24] To -[4622.24 --> 4622.64] Spread -[4622.64 --> 4622.88] Its -[4622.88 --> 4623.14] Roots -[4623.14 --> 4623.32] Out -[4623.32 --> 4623.82] Further -[4623.82 --> 4624.20] So -[4624.20 --> 4624.36] That -[4624.36 --> 4624.46] It -[4624.46 --> 4624.58] Is -[4624.58 --> 4625.38] Stronger -[4625.38 --> 4625.90] In -[4625.90 --> 4626.40] Place -[4626.40 --> 4627.40] When -[4627.40 --> 4627.80] Water -[4627.80 --> 4628.06] Is -[4628.06 --> 4628.36] Hard -[4628.36 --> 4628.56] To -[4628.56 --> 4629.04] Find -[4629.04 --> 4629.42] The -[4629.42 --> 4629.94] Tree -[4629.94 --> 4630.50] Works -[4630.50 --> 4630.96] Harder -[4630.96 --> 4631.16] To -[4631.16 --> 4631.48] Find -[4631.48 --> 4631.66] It -[4631.66 --> 4632.52] When -[4632.52 --> 4632.82] Trees -[4632.82 --> 4633.00] Have -[4633.00 --> 4633.12] To -[4633.12 --> 4633.52] Compete -[4633.52 --> 4633.74] For -[4633.74 --> 4634.24] Sunlight -[4634.24 --> 4634.38] Have -[4634.38 --> 4634.44] You -[4634.44 --> 4634.56] Ever -[4634.56 --> 4634.84] Seen -[4634.84 --> 4635.00] On -[4635.00 --> 4635.12] A -[4635.12 --> 4635.74] Mountaintop -[4635.74 --> 4636.28] Trees -[4636.28 --> 4636.44] That -[4636.44 --> 4636.66] Go -[4636.66 --> 4636.90] Like -[4636.90 --> 4637.16] This -[4637.16 --> 4637.36] And -[4637.36 --> 4637.48] Then -[4637.48 --> 4637.82] Straight -[4637.82 --> 4638.08] Up -[4638.08 --> 4639.46] That's -[4639.46 --> 4639.64] Because -[4639.64 --> 4639.86] Those -[4639.86 --> 4640.12] Trees -[4640.12 --> 4640.28] Are -[4640.28 --> 4640.62] Looking -[4640.62 --> 4640.92] For -[4640.92 --> 4641.42] Sunlight -[4641.42 --> 4642.16] And -[4642.16 --> 4642.30] What -[4642.30 --> 4642.84] Happens -[4642.84 --> 4643.06] In -[4643.06 --> 4643.22] That -[4643.22 --> 4643.64] Crux -[4643.64 --> 4643.84] Where -[4643.84 --> 4643.96] The -[4643.96 --> 4645.30] Trunk -[4645.30 --> 4645.82] Bends -[4645.82 --> 4646.36] It -[4646.36 --> 4646.86] Creates -[4646.86 --> 4647.38] Stress -[4647.38 --> 4647.70] Wood -[4647.70 --> 4648.50] Two -[4648.50 --> 4648.80] Types -[4653.32 --> 4654.06] And -[4654.06 --> 4654.24] That -[4654.24 --> 4654.66] Helps -[4654.66 --> 4654.88] The -[4654.88 --> 4655.26] Tree -[4655.26 --> 4655.78] Remain -[4655.78 --> 4656.28] Strong -[4656.28 --> 4656.54] So -[4656.54 --> 4656.68] That -[4656.68 --> 4656.96] When -[4656.96 --> 4657.34] Winds -[4657.34 --> 4657.72] Come -[4657.72 --> 4658.44] It -[4658.44 --> 4658.60] Can -[4658.60 --> 4659.00] Stand -[4659.00 --> 4660.74] Without -[4660.74 --> 4661.36] The -[4661.36 --> 4662.02] Stress -[4662.02 --> 4662.54] Of -[4662.54 --> 4662.94] Wind -[4662.94 --> 4663.16] Or -[4663.16 --> 4663.52] Without -[4663.52 --> 4663.80] The -[4663.80 --> 4664.34] Pressure -[4664.34 --> 4664.62] Of -[4664.62 --> 4665.40] Scarcity -[4665.40 --> 4666.40] They -[4666.40 --> 4666.98] Grow -[4666.98 --> 4667.66] Quickly -[4667.66 --> 4668.36] But -[4668.36 --> 4668.86] Fall -[4668.86 --> 4670.12] Over -[4670.12 --> 4673.68] The -[4673.68 --> 4674.04] Same -[4674.04 --> 4674.72] Thing -[4674.72 --> 4675.82] Happens -[4675.82 --> 4676.12] In -[4676.12 --> 4676.30] Our -[4676.30 --> 4676.62] Lives -[4676.62 --> 4676.82] Of -[4676.82 --> 4677.12] Faith -[4677.12 --> 4678.48] In -[4678.48 --> 4678.78] Your -[4678.78 --> 4679.20] Lives -[4679.20 --> 4679.40] Of -[4679.40 --> 4679.62] Faith -[4679.62 --> 4679.80] In -[4679.80 --> 4679.92] Your -[4679.92 --> 4680.48] Relationship -[4680.48 --> 4680.64] To -[4680.64 --> 4680.90] God -[4680.90 --> 4681.38] I'm -[4681.38 --> 4681.44] Going -[4681.44 --> 4681.50] To -[4681.50 --> 4681.66] Be -[4681.66 --> 4682.10] Clear -[4682.10 --> 4682.32] And -[4682.32 --> 4682.64] Honest -[4682.64 --> 4682.86] With -[4682.86 --> 4683.00] You -[4683.00 --> 4683.44] You -[4683.44 --> 4683.70] Will -[4683.70 --> 4683.90] Have -[4683.90 --> 4684.34] Stress -[4684.34 --> 4684.64] And -[4684.64 --> 4684.76] You -[4684.76 --> 4684.92] Will -[4684.92 --> 4685.08] Have -[4685.08 --> 4685.46] Pressure -[4685.46 --> 4688.64] But -[4688.64 --> 4689.08] Over -[4689.08 --> 4689.34] And -[4689.34 --> 4689.62] Over -[4689.62 --> 4689.82] And -[4689.82 --> 4690.00] Over -[4690.00 --> 4690.28] Again -[4690.28 --> 4690.48] The -[4690.48 --> 4690.76] Bible -[4690.76 --> 4691.10] Makes -[4691.10 --> 4691.24] It -[4691.24 --> 4691.50] Clear -[4691.50 --> 4691.70] And -[4691.70 --> 4692.08] And -[4692.08 --> 4692.22] I -[4692.22 --> 4692.42] Think -[4692.42 --> 4692.86] Everyone -[4692.86 --> 4693.20] Here -[4693.20 --> 4693.44] Can -[4693.44 --> 4693.92] Testify -[4693.92 --> 4694.12] To -[4694.12 --> 4694.26] The -[4694.26 --> 4694.44] Same -[4694.44 --> 4694.94] Experience -[4694.94 --> 4695.46] That -[4695.46 --> 4696.12] God -[4696.12 --> 4696.92] Uses -[4696.92 --> 4697.50] Those -[4697.50 --> 4699.18] Stresses -[4699.18 --> 4699.38] And -[4699.38 --> 4699.62] Those -[4699.62 --> 4700.34] Pressures -[4700.34 --> 4700.56] And -[4700.56 --> 4700.76] Those -[4700.76 --> 4701.54] Trials -[4701.54 --> 4701.74] To -[4701.74 --> 4702.64] Deepen -[4702.64 --> 4703.20] Your -[4703.20 --> 4703.62] Roots -[4703.62 --> 4704.32] To -[4704.32 --> 4705.08] Establish -[4705.08 --> 4705.28] You -[4705.28 --> 4705.62] More -[4705.62 --> 4706.30] Firmly -[4706.30 --> 4706.50] In -[4706.50 --> 4707.10] Relationship -[4707.10 --> 4707.22] To -[4707.22 --> 4707.36] Him -[4707.36 --> 4707.98] So -[4707.98 --> 4708.24] That -[4708.24 --> 4708.40] You -[4708.40 --> 4708.56] Can -[4708.56 --> 4708.70] Be -[4708.70 --> 4709.42] Stronger -[4709.42 --> 4709.86] So -[4709.86 --> 4710.08] That -[4710.08 --> 4710.22] You -[4710.22 --> 4710.44] Can -[4710.44 --> 4711.26] Endure -[4711.26 --> 4711.56] And -[4713.00 --> 4713.22] That -[4713.22 --> 4713.40] Kind -[4713.40 --> 4713.54] Of -[4713.54 --> 4714.28] Hardship -[4714.28 --> 4715.08] Right -[4715.08 --> 4715.36] In -[4715.36 --> 4715.52] The -[4715.52 --> 4715.88] Christian -[4715.88 --> 4716.36] Life -[4716.36 --> 4716.90] Has -[4716.90 --> 4717.10] A -[4717.10 --> 4717.66] Purpose -[4717.66 --> 4719.58] And -[4719.58 --> 4719.70] In -[4719.70 --> 4719.90] Fact -[4719.90 --> 4721.88] I -[4721.88 --> 4722.08] Would -[4722.08 --> 4722.36] Say -[4722.36 --> 4722.62] That -[4722.62 --> 4723.34] Only -[4723.34 --> 4725.24] Only -[4725.24 --> 4725.58] In -[4725.58 --> 4725.74] The -[4725.74 --> 4726.08] Christian -[4726.08 --> 4726.68] Life -[4726.68 --> 4727.28] Only -[4727.28 --> 4727.82] If -[4727.82 --> 4728.26] God -[4728.26 --> 4728.60] Is -[4728.60 --> 4728.88] Who -[4728.88 --> 4729.22] God -[4729.22 --> 4729.80] Is -[4729.80 --> 4730.34] Can -[4730.34 --> 4730.72] Any -[4730.72 --> 4731.16] Of -[4731.16 --> 4731.58] Our -[4731.58 --> 4732.52] Stresses -[4732.52 --> 4732.68] Or -[4732.68 --> 4733.12] Pressures -[4733.12 --> 4733.34] Or -[4733.34 --> 4733.94] Anxiety -[4733.94 --> 4734.20] Have -[4734.20 --> 4734.32] A -[4734.32 --> 4734.76] Purpose -[4734.76 --> 4736.84] But -[4736.84 --> 4737.44] Because -[4737.44 --> 4737.84] God -[4737.84 --> 4738.12] Is -[4738.12 --> 4738.32] Who -[4738.32 --> 4738.58] God -[4738.58 --> 4739.00] Is -[4739.00 --> 4740.22] All -[4740.22 --> 4740.50] Of -[4740.50 --> 4740.76] Those -[4740.76 --> 4741.36] Things -[4741.36 --> 4741.84] That -[4741.84 --> 4741.92] Are -[4741.92 --> 4742.30] Hard -[4742.30 --> 4742.50] In -[4742.50 --> 4742.60] Your -[4742.60 --> 4742.96] Life -[4742.96 --> 4744.38] Have -[4744.38 --> 4744.52] A -[4744.52 --> 4745.02] Purpose -[4745.02 --> 4746.38] They -[4746.38 --> 4746.46] Can -[4746.46 --> 4746.60] Make -[4746.60 --> 4746.74] You -[4746.74 --> 4747.42] Stronger -[4747.42 --> 4747.76] And -[4747.76 --> 4747.92] Be -[4747.92 --> 4748.24] Used -[4748.24 --> 4748.46] By -[4748.46 --> 4748.86] Him -[4748.86 --> 4749.30] To -[4749.30 --> 4749.56] Help -[4749.56 --> 4749.74] You -[4749.74 --> 4749.94] To -[4749.94 --> 4750.42] Endure -[4750.42 --> 4750.94] To -[4750.94 --> 4751.08] The -[4751.08 --> 4751.34] End -[4751.34 --> 4754.34] And -[4754.34 --> 4754.64] Part -[4754.64 --> 4754.80] Of -[4754.80 --> 4754.98] That -[4754.98 --> 4755.58] Purpose -[4755.58 --> 4757.48] Is -[4757.48 --> 4757.64] To -[4757.64 --> 4757.96] Teach -[4757.96 --> 4758.16] You -[4758.16 --> 4758.86] Exactly -[4758.86 --> 4759.80] Who -[4759.80 --> 4760.56] Jesus -[4760.56 --> 4761.28] Is -[4761.28 --> 4761.68] And -[4761.68 --> 4761.92] What -[4761.92 --> 4762.12] He -[4762.12 --> 4762.36] Has -[4762.36 --> 4762.62] Done -[4762.62 --> 4764.18] That's -[4764.18 --> 4764.42] The -[4764.42 --> 4765.00] Point -[4765.00 --> 4765.22] That -[4765.22 --> 4765.58] Paul -[4765.58 --> 4765.90] Makes -[4765.90 --> 4766.08] Right -[4766.08 --> 4766.18] He -[4766.18 --> 4766.32] Says -[4766.32 --> 4766.50] You -[4766.50 --> 4766.68] Are -[4766.68 --> 4766.98] Rooted -[4766.98 --> 4767.22] And -[4767.22 --> 4767.88] Established -[4767.88 --> 4768.46] In -[4768.46 --> 4768.76] Order -[4768.76 --> 4769.08] That -[4769.08 --> 4769.38] You -[4769.38 --> 4769.74] Verse -[4769.74 --> 4770.24] 18 -[4770.24 --> 4771.12] Might -[4771.12 --> 4771.80] Grasp -[4771.80 --> 4772.06] How -[4772.06 --> 4772.50] Wide -[4772.50 --> 4772.72] And -[4772.72 --> 4773.12] Long -[4773.12 --> 4773.30] And -[4773.30 --> 4773.74] High -[4773.74 --> 4773.96] And -[4773.96 --> 4774.48] Deep -[4774.48 --> 4775.06] Is -[4775.06 --> 4775.36] The -[4775.36 --> 4775.68] Love -[4775.68 --> 4776.50] Of -[4776.50 --> 4777.32] Christ -[4777.32 --> 4779.40] When -[4779.40 --> 4779.58] You -[4779.58 --> 4779.82] Go -[4779.82 --> 4780.08] Through -[4780.08 --> 4780.38] Hard -[4780.38 --> 4780.88] Things -[4780.88 --> 4781.90] The -[4781.90 --> 4782.06] Love -[4782.06 --> 4782.20] Of -[4782.20 --> 4782.42] Jesus -[4782.42 --> 4782.80] Covers -[4782.80 --> 4783.04] Over -[4783.04 --> 4783.30] You -[4783.30 --> 4784.40] When -[4784.40 --> 4784.54] You -[4784.54 --> 4784.80] Do -[4784.80 --> 4785.20] Bad -[4785.20 --> 4785.70] Things -[4785.70 --> 4786.14] The -[4786.14 --> 4786.34] Love -[4786.34 --> 4786.48] Of -[4786.48 --> 4786.74] Jesus -[4786.74 --> 4786.98] Is -[4786.98 --> 4787.34] Bigger -[4787.34 --> 4788.22] Bigger -[4788.22 --> 4788.24] Bigger -[4788.24 --> 4788.60] Even -[4788.60 --> 4789.04] Than -[4789.04 --> 4789.36] Your -[4789.36 --> 4789.90] Biggest -[4789.90 --> 4790.52] Sin -[4790.52 --> 4791.68] Right -[4791.68 --> 4791.82] When -[4791.82 --> 4792.00] The -[4792.00 --> 4792.30] List -[4792.30 --> 4792.50] Of -[4792.50 --> 4792.88] Doubts -[4792.88 --> 4793.06] And -[4793.06 --> 4793.46] Questions -[4793.46 --> 4793.76] That -[4793.76 --> 4793.88] You -[4793.88 --> 4794.14] Have -[4794.14 --> 4794.36] Goes -[4794.36 --> 4794.62] On -[4794.62 --> 4794.74] And -[4794.74 --> 4795.00] On -[4795.00 --> 4795.14] And -[4795.14 --> 4795.32] It's -[4795.32 --> 4795.70] Longer -[4795.70 --> 4795.90] Than -[4795.90 --> 4796.06] Your -[4796.06 --> 4796.40] Arms -[4796.40 --> 4796.80] Together -[4796.80 --> 4797.30] The -[4797.30 --> 4797.64] Love -[4797.64 --> 4797.84] Of -[4797.84 --> 4798.22] God -[4798.22 --> 4798.46] In -[4798.46 --> 4798.78] Christ -[4798.78 --> 4799.16] Jesus -[4799.16 --> 4799.66] Is -[4799.66 --> 4800.12] Higher -[4800.12 --> 4800.68] And -[4800.68 --> 4801.30] Deeper -[4801.30 --> 4801.70] And -[4801.70 --> 4801.92] More -[4801.92 --> 4802.38] Profound -[4802.38 --> 4804.08] And -[4804.08 --> 4804.52] That's -[4804.52 --> 4804.74] What -[4804.74 --> 4805.00] You -[4805.00 --> 4805.42] Guys -[4805.42 --> 4805.70] Are -[4805.70 --> 4806.54] Planted -[4806.54 --> 4806.84] In -[4806.84 --> 4807.50] That's -[4807.50 --> 4807.66] The -[4807.66 --> 4808.18] Truth -[4808.18 --> 4808.36] Of -[4808.36 --> 4808.50] The -[4808.50 --> 4808.80] Faith -[4808.80 --> 4808.96] That -[4808.96 --> 4809.06] You -[4809.06 --> 4809.16] Are -[4809.16 --> 4809.38] Being -[4809.38 --> 4810.06] Trained -[4810.06 --> 4810.74] In -[4810.74 --> 4814.50] That's -[4814.50 --> 4815.22] How -[4815.22 --> 4815.82] God -[4817.34 --> 4818.20] To -[4818.20 --> 4818.56] Root -[4818.56 --> 4818.92] You -[4818.92 --> 4819.46] And -[4819.46 --> 4820.00] Ground -[4820.00 --> 4820.34] You -[4820.34 --> 4820.98] In -[4820.98 --> 4821.22] His -[4821.22 --> 4821.56] Love -[4821.56 --> 4824.48] And -[4824.48 --> 4824.62] There's -[4824.62 --> 4824.72] A -[4824.72 --> 4825.40] Relationship -[4825.40 --> 4826.18] That -[4826.18 --> 4826.34] Goes -[4826.34 --> 4826.54] On -[4826.54 --> 4826.76] Here -[4826.76 --> 4829.06] This -[4829.06 --> 4829.32] Week -[4829.32 --> 4829.50] In -[4829.50 --> 4830.12] Preparation -[4830.12 --> 4831.40] I -[4831.40 --> 4831.70] Busted -[4831.70 --> 4831.94] Out -[4831.94 --> 4832.12] My -[4832.12 --> 4832.32] Own -[4832.32 --> 4832.68] Cadet -[4832.68 --> 4833.08] Skills -[4833.08 --> 4834.80] And -[4834.80 --> 4834.90] I -[4834.90 --> 4835.08] Made -[4835.08 --> 4835.44] Something -[4835.44 --> 4836.76] To -[4836.76 --> 4837.22] Explain -[4837.22 --> 4837.62] This -[4837.62 --> 4838.68] Big -[4838.68 --> 4838.92] Thank -[4838.92 --> 4839.00] You -[4839.00 --> 4839.12] To -[4839.12 --> 4839.46] Malachi -[4839.46 --> 4839.76] For -[4839.76 --> 4840.10] Donating -[4840.10 --> 4840.32] His -[4840.32 --> 4840.72] Shoes -[4840.72 --> 4841.48] To -[4841.48 --> 4841.68] This -[4841.68 --> 4841.86] Art -[4841.86 --> 4842.34] Project -[4842.34 --> 4844.18] But -[4844.18 --> 4844.32] It -[4844.32 --> 4844.96] Starts -[4844.96 --> 4845.52] With -[4845.52 --> 4845.64] The -[4845.64 --> 4846.40] Relationship -[4846.40 --> 4846.60] Of -[4846.60 --> 4846.76] The -[4846.76 --> 4847.02] Holy -[4847.02 --> 4847.42] Spirit -[4847.42 --> 4848.18] Strengthening -[4848.18 --> 4848.74] Your -[4848.74 --> 4848.96] Inner -[4848.96 --> 4849.32] Being -[4849.32 --> 4849.56] And -[4849.56 --> 4850.04] Christ -[4850.04 --> 4850.50] Dwelling -[4850.50 --> 4850.78] In -[4850.78 --> 4851.00] You -[4851.00 --> 4852.64] And -[4852.64 --> 4852.76] Then -[4852.76 --> 4852.94] That -[4852.94 --> 4853.30] Moves -[4853.30 --> 4853.62] To -[4853.62 --> 4854.06] Us -[4854.06 --> 4855.24] Understanding -[4855.24 --> 4855.60] That -[4855.60 --> 4856.04] What -[4856.04 --> 4856.22] That -[4856.22 --> 4856.58] Means -[4856.58 --> 4856.96] Is -[4856.96 --> 4857.16] That -[4857.16 --> 4857.28] We -[4857.28 --> 4857.42] Are -[4857.42 --> 4857.74] Rooted -[4857.74 --> 4858.14] And -[4858.14 --> 4858.66] Grounded -[4858.66 --> 4859.34] In -[4859.34 --> 4859.54] His -[4859.54 --> 4859.86] Love -[4859.86 --> 4860.58] That -[4860.58 --> 4860.72] Our -[4860.72 --> 4860.92] Roots -[4860.92 --> 4861.12] Go -[4861.12 --> 4861.46] Deep -[4861.46 --> 4861.60] And -[4861.60 --> 4861.70] The -[4861.70 --> 4862.14] Foundation -[4862.14 --> 4862.40] Is -[4862.40 --> 4862.70] Strong -[4862.70 --> 4865.12] And -[4865.12 --> 4865.50] Our -[4865.50 --> 4865.82] Being -[4865.82 --> 4866.18] Rooted -[4866.18 --> 4866.46] And -[4866.46 --> 4867.10] Grounded -[4867.10 --> 4867.54] Is -[4867.54 --> 4867.92] So -[4867.92 --> 4868.28] That -[4868.28 --> 4868.50] We -[4868.50 --> 4868.84] Might -[4868.84 --> 4869.26] See -[4869.26 --> 4869.70] To -[4869.70 --> 4870.10] Know -[4870.10 --> 4870.70] How -[4870.70 --> 4871.24] Wide -[4871.24 --> 4871.62] Long -[4871.62 --> 4872.06] High -[4872.06 --> 4872.30] And -[4872.30 --> 4872.64] Deep -[4872.64 --> 4873.32] The -[4873.32 --> 4873.72] Love -[4873.72 --> 4874.22] Of -[4874.22 --> 4874.68] Christ -[4874.68 --> 4875.74] Is -[4875.74 --> 4877.64] And -[4877.64 --> 4877.74] Then -[4877.74 --> 4877.88] You -[4877.88 --> 4878.20] See -[4878.20 --> 4878.96] The -[4878.96 --> 4879.22] Arrow -[4879.22 --> 4879.54] Goes -[4879.54 --> 4879.88] Again -[4879.88 --> 4881.36] Because -[4881.36 --> 4881.74] Knowing -[4881.74 --> 4882.26] How -[4882.26 --> 4882.62] Long -[4882.62 --> 4882.74] And -[4882.74 --> 4882.96] High -[4882.96 --> 4883.12] And -[4883.12 --> 4883.38] Wide -[4883.38 --> 4883.56] And -[4883.56 --> 4883.82] Deep -[4883.82 --> 4884.06] The -[4884.06 --> 4884.24] Love -[4884.24 --> 4884.38] Of -[4884.38 --> 4884.68] Christ -[4884.68 --> 4885.04] Is -[4885.04 --> 4885.64] Helps -[4885.64 --> 4885.84] Us -[4885.84 --> 4886.02] To -[4886.02 --> 4886.38] See -[4886.38 --> 4886.62] The -[4886.62 --> 4886.82] Holy -[4886.82 --> 4887.24] Spirit -[4887.24 --> 4887.96] Strengthening -[4887.96 --> 4888.20] Us -[4888.20 --> 4888.38] In -[4888.38 --> 4889.76] To -[4889.76 --> 4890.40] See -[4890.40 --> 4890.80] More -[4890.80 --> 4891.02] Of -[4891.02 --> 4891.44] Jesus -[4891.44 --> 4891.92] Dwelling -[4891.92 --> 4892.22] In -[4892.22 --> 4892.62] Us -[4892.62 --> 4893.36] And -[4893.36 --> 4893.48] When -[4893.48 --> 4893.74] More -[4893.74 --> 4893.90] Of -[4893.90 --> 4894.14] Jesus -[4894.14 --> 4894.36] Is -[4894.36 --> 4894.64] Dwelling -[4894.64 --> 4894.92] In -[4894.92 --> 4895.18] Us -[4895.18 --> 4895.34] We -[4895.34 --> 4895.48] Are -[4895.48 --> 4895.64] More -[4895.64 --> 4896.10] Deeply -[4896.10 --> 4896.46] Rooted -[4896.46 --> 4896.74] And -[4896.74 --> 4897.26] Grounded -[4897.26 --> 4897.46] In -[4897.46 --> 4897.70] Who -[4897.70 --> 4898.22] He -[4898.22 --> 4898.58] Is -[4898.58 --> 4898.76] And -[4898.76 --> 4898.88] When -[4898.88 --> 4899.00] We -[4899.00 --> 4899.08] Are -[4899.08 --> 4899.56] Deeply -[4899.56 --> 4899.82] Rooted -[4899.82 --> 4900.02] And -[4900.02 --> 4900.36] Grounded -[4900.36 --> 4900.48] In -[4900.48 --> 4900.60] Who -[4900.60 --> 4900.72] He -[4900.72 --> 4900.96] Is -[4900.96 --> 4901.38] We -[4901.38 --> 4901.60] Know -[4901.60 --> 4901.94] More -[4901.94 --> 4902.16] How -[4902.16 --> 4902.44] Deep -[4902.44 --> 4902.60] And -[4902.60 --> 4902.78] Long -[4902.78 --> 4902.92] And -[4902.92 --> 4903.12] High -[4903.12 --> 4903.28] And -[4903.28 --> 4903.54] Wide -[4903.54 --> 4903.70] The -[4903.70 --> 4903.86] Love -[4903.86 --> 4903.98] Of -[4903.98 --> 4904.20] Jesus -[4904.20 --> 4904.48] Is -[4904.48 --> 4904.82] And -[4904.82 --> 4905.02] Then -[4905.02 --> 4905.22] We -[4905.22 --> 4905.42] Keep -[4905.42 --> 4905.82] Going -[4905.82 --> 4906.20] And -[4906.20 --> 4906.30] I -[4906.30 --> 4906.40] Could -[4906.40 --> 4906.50] Do -[4906.50 --> 4906.64] This -[4906.64 --> 4906.74] For -[4906.74 --> 4906.82] The -[4906.82 --> 4907.30] 25 -[4907.30 --> 4907.78] Minutes -[4907.78 --> 4909.08] Round -[4909.08 --> 4909.24] And -[4909.24 --> 4909.48] Round -[4909.48 --> 4910.30] It -[4910.30 --> 4910.64] Goes -[4910.64 --> 4911.24] This -[4911.24 --> 4911.64] Is -[4911.64 --> 4912.16] The -[4912.16 --> 4912.64] Truth -[4912.64 --> 4913.10] That -[4913.10 --> 4913.30] We -[4913.30 --> 4914.18] Stand -[4914.18 --> 4914.58] On -[4914.58 --> 4917.42] Now -[4917.42 --> 4917.50] I -[4917.50 --> 4917.60] Need -[4917.60 --> 4917.70] A -[4917.70 --> 4918.16] Volunteer -[4918.16 --> 4919.88] Tyus -[4919.88 --> 4920.02] Would -[4920.02 --> 4920.12] It -[4920.12 --> 4920.22] Be -[4920.22 --> 4920.40] You -[4920.40 --> 4920.88] Would -[4920.88 --> 4920.96] You -[4920.96 --> 4921.14] Come -[4921.14 --> 4921.28] Up -[4921.28 --> 4921.46] Here -[4921.46 --> 4921.88] No -[4921.88 --> 4922.36] Malachi -[4922.36 --> 4922.46] I -[4922.46 --> 4922.48] I -[4922.48 --> 4922.52] I -[4922.52 --> 4922.54] I -[4922.54 --> 4922.78] I -[4922.78 --> 4922.98] Can -[4922.98 --> 4923.06] It -[4923.06 --> 4923.12] Be -[4923.12 --> 4923.30] You -[4923.30 --> 4923.78] Can -[4923.78 --> 4923.88] It -[4923.88 --> 4923.98] Be -[4923.98 --> 4924.20] You -[4924.20 --> 4925.30] No -[4925.30 --> 4925.96] Luca -[4925.96 --> 4926.22] How -[4926.22 --> 4926.36] About -[4926.36 --> 4926.56] You -[4926.56 --> 4927.58] No -[4927.58 --> 4927.80] I -[4927.80 --> 4928.12] Need -[4928.12 --> 4928.46] A -[4928.46 --> 4929.06] Volunteer -[4929.06 --> 4931.54] Your -[4931.54 --> 4931.86] Shoes -[4931.86 --> 4932.08] Wouldn't -[4932.08 --> 4932.28] Fit -[4932.28 --> 4932.46] Your -[4932.46 --> 4932.68] Shoes -[4932.68 --> 4932.80] Don't -[4932.80 --> 4932.96] Have -[4932.96 --> 4933.08] To -[4933.08 --> 4933.24] Fit -[4933.24 --> 4933.40] Their -[4933.40 --> 4933.62] Shoes -[4933.62 --> 4933.84] Here -[4933.84 --> 4935.98] Your -[4935.98 --> 4936.22] Foot -[4936.22 --> 4936.50] Wouldn't -[4936.50 --> 4936.74] Fit -[4936.74 --> 4937.54] Sorry -[4937.54 --> 4937.84] Malachi -[4937.84 --> 4938.04] It -[4938.04 --> 4938.30] Can't -[4938.30 --> 4938.40] Be -[4938.40 --> 4938.64] You -[4938.64 --> 4939.88] You -[4939.88 --> 4940.06] Need -[4940.06 --> 4940.16] To -[4940.16 --> 4940.28] Be -[4940.28 --> 4940.60] Smaller -[4940.60 --> 4940.72] Than -[4940.72 --> 4940.94] Size -[4940.94 --> 4941.24] Two -[4941.24 --> 4942.50] So -[4942.50 --> 4942.64] I -[4942.64 --> 4942.80] Think -[4942.80 --> 4942.90] It -[4942.90 --> 4943.04] Might -[4943.04 --> 4943.22] Need -[4943.22 --> 4943.34] To -[4943.34 --> 4943.46] Be -[4943.46 --> 4943.90] Tyus -[4943.90 --> 4945.36] No -[4945.36 --> 4946.50] Malachi -[4946.50 --> 4946.66] It -[4946.66 --> 4946.88] Can't -[4946.88 --> 4946.98] Be -[4946.98 --> 4947.08] You -[4947.08 --> 4947.32] Because -[4947.32 --> 4947.46] You -[4947.46 --> 4947.62] Have -[4947.62 --> 4948.06] Possibly -[4948.06 --> 4948.36] Broken -[4948.36 --> 4948.66] Wrist -[4948.66 --> 4948.78] And -[4948.78 --> 4948.90] If -[4948.90 --> 4949.00] You -[4949.00 --> 4949.28] Fall -[4949.28 --> 4949.40] I -[4949.40 --> 4949.56] Will -[4949.56 --> 4949.70] Get -[4949.70 --> 4949.78] In -[4949.78 --> 4949.88] A -[4949.88 --> 4950.08] Lot -[4950.08 --> 4950.20] Of -[4950.20 --> 4950.48] Trouble -[4950.48 --> 4952.28] So -[4952.28 --> 4952.40] It -[4952.40 --> 4953.04] Dangerous -[4953.04 --> 4953.50] I -[4953.50 --> 4953.64] Need -[4953.64 --> 4953.70] You -[4953.70 --> 4953.80] To -[4953.80 --> 4953.92] Hear -[4953.92 --> 4954.20] That -[4954.20 --> 4955.80] No -[4955.80 --> 4956.08] One -[4956.08 --> 4958.84] All -[4958.84 --> 4959.02] Right -[4959.02 --> 4959.38] Malachi -[4959.40 --> 4959.60] We -[4959.60 --> 4959.92] Use -[4959.92 --> 4960.24] You -[4960.24 --> 4960.96] But -[4960.96 --> 4961.06] We -[4961.06 --> 4961.28] Won't -[4961.28 --> 4961.54] Actually -[4961.54 --> 4961.76] Make -[4966.50 --> 4969.36] So -[4969.36 --> 4969.84] This -[4969.84 --> 4970.28] Is -[4970.28 --> 4970.50] The -[4970.50 --> 4971.08] Truth -[4971.08 --> 4972.14] That -[4972.14 --> 4972.30] We -[4972.30 --> 4972.86] Stand -[4972.86 --> 4973.22] In -[4973.22 --> 4973.44] That -[4973.44 --> 4973.60] We -[4973.60 --> 4973.92] Are -[4973.92 --> 4974.80] Rooted -[4974.80 --> 4975.20] And -[4975.20 --> 4975.88] Established -[4975.88 --> 4976.26] In -[4976.26 --> 4977.86] Together -[4977.86 --> 4996.26] Good -[4996.26 --> 5003.28] And -[5003.28 --> 5003.62] So -[5003.62 --> 5004.14] Rooted -[5004.14 --> 5004.60] And -[5004.60 --> 5005.46] Established -[5005.46 --> 5006.40] In -[5006.40 --> 5006.88] This -[5006.88 --> 5007.72] Truth -[5007.72 --> 5009.36] We -[5009.36 --> 5009.82] Reach -[5009.82 --> 5010.68] Forward -[5010.68 --> 5011.66] For -[5011.66 --> 5011.82] The -[5011.82 --> 5012.28] Prize -[5012.28 --> 5013.76] Give -[5013.76 --> 5013.82] Me -[5013.82 --> 5013.90] A -[5013.90 --> 5014.04] High -[5014.04 --> 5014.30] Five -[5014.30 --> 5019.32] See -[5019.32 --> 5019.46] I -[5019.46 --> 5019.70] Caught -[5019.70 --> 5019.88] You -[5019.88 --> 5020.26] He -[5020.26 --> 5020.46] Couldn't -[5020.46 --> 5020.62] Do -[5020.62 --> 5020.82] It -[5020.82 --> 5021.74] Because -[5021.74 --> 5021.90] There -[5021.90 --> 5021.98] Is -[5021.98 --> 5022.14] Still -[5022.14 --> 5022.50] Something -[5022.50 --> 5022.90] Missing -[5022.90 --> 5023.82] He -[5023.82 --> 5024.28] Rooted -[5024.28 --> 5024.46] And -[5024.46 --> 5024.56] He -[5024.56 --> 5025.20] Established -[5025.20 --> 5025.34] And -[5025.34 --> 5025.40] He -[5025.40 --> 5025.90] Firm -[5025.90 --> 5026.98] And -[5026.98 --> 5027.06] He -[5027.06 --> 5027.28] Can't -[5027.28 --> 5027.54] Move -[5027.54 --> 5027.80] Because -[5027.80 --> 5027.96] He -[5027.96 --> 5028.06] Is -[5028.06 --> 5028.34] Being -[5028.34 --> 5028.72] Held -[5028.72 --> 5029.28] In -[5029.28 --> 5029.64] Place -[5029.64 --> 5029.84] But -[5029.84 --> 5029.94] There -[5029.94 --> 5030.02] Is -[5030.02 --> 5030.20] Still -[5030.20 --> 5030.62] Something -[5030.62 --> 5031.50] Missing -[5031.50 --> 5032.08] Steve -[5032.08 --> 5032.20] Would -[5032.20 --> 5032.28] You -[5032.28 --> 5032.44] Come -[5032.44 --> 5032.54] To -[5032.54 --> 5032.64] The -[5032.64 --> 5032.84] Front -[5032.84 --> 5041.34] And -[5041.34 --> 5041.46] I -[5041.46 --> 5041.68] Pray -[5041.68 --> 5041.90] That -[5041.90 --> 5042.18] You -[5042.18 --> 5042.70] Being -[5042.70 --> 5042.98] Rooted -[5042.98 --> 5043.22] And -[5043.22 --> 5043.68] Established -[5043.68 --> 5043.86] In -[5043.86 --> 5044.22] Love -[5044.22 --> 5044.56] May -[5044.56 --> 5044.80] Have -[5044.80 --> 5045.30] Power -[5045.30 --> 5046.78] Together -[5046.78 --> 5047.60] With -[5047.60 --> 5047.84] All -[5047.84 --> 5048.02] The -[5048.02 --> 5048.50] Lord's -[5048.50 --> 5049.16] Holy -[5049.16 --> 5050.02] People -[5050.02 --> 5051.82] Put -[5051.82 --> 5051.94] Your -[5051.94 --> 5052.12] Foot -[5052.12 --> 5052.36] Here -[5052.36 --> 5053.72] Hold -[5053.72 --> 5053.92] This -[5053.92 --> 5054.14] Hand -[5054.14 --> 5056.58] Reach -[5056.58 --> 5056.60] Reach -[5056.60 --> 5056.82] Out -[5056.82 --> 5059.54] There -[5059.54 --> 5059.64] He -[5059.64 --> 5059.94] Goes -[5059.94 --> 5060.78] Now -[5060.78 --> 5060.92] He -[5060.92 --> 5061.06] Can -[5061.06 --> 5061.38] Reach -[5061.38 --> 5062.96] Because -[5062.96 --> 5063.38] Someone -[5063.38 --> 5063.96] Else -[5063.96 --> 5064.62] Is -[5064.62 --> 5065.00] Helping -[5065.00 --> 5065.26] Him -[5065.26 --> 5065.92] Remain -[5065.92 --> 5066.64] Rooted -[5066.64 --> 5067.32] And -[5067.32 --> 5067.94] Established -[5067.94 --> 5068.66] Someone -[5068.66 --> 5069.04] Else -[5069.04 --> 5069.26] Is -[5069.26 --> 5069.72] Standing -[5069.72 --> 5070.40] On -[5070.40 --> 5070.60] That -[5070.60 --> 5071.20] Circle -[5071.20 --> 5071.78] Of -[5071.78 --> 5072.22] Faith -[5072.22 --> 5073.04] With -[5073.04 --> 5073.26] Him -[5073.26 --> 5075.48] This -[5075.48 --> 5075.84] Is -[5075.84 --> 5076.04] The -[5076.04 --> 5076.32] Picture -[5076.32 --> 5076.54] Of -[5076.54 --> 5077.00] Cadets -[5077.00 --> 5078.12] But -[5078.12 --> 5078.28] More -[5078.28 --> 5078.74] Broadly -[5078.74 --> 5079.06] This -[5079.06 --> 5079.26] Is -[5079.26 --> 5079.44] The -[5079.44 --> 5079.70] Picture -[5079.70 --> 5079.84] Of -[5079.84 --> 5079.94] The -[5079.94 --> 5080.20] Christian -[5080.20 --> 5080.56] Life -[5080.56 --> 5082.04] This -[5082.04 --> 5082.16] Is -[5082.16 --> 5082.32] What -[5082.32 --> 5083.06] Discipleship -[5083.06 --> 5083.26] And -[5083.26 --> 5083.78] Community -[5083.78 --> 5084.26] Does -[5084.26 --> 5085.02] For -[5085.02 --> 5085.42] Us -[5085.42 --> 5086.18] In -[5086.18 --> 5086.58] Us -[5086.58 --> 5087.34] And -[5087.34 --> 5087.62] Through -[5087.62 --> 5087.94] Us -[5087.94 --> 5088.24] Thank -[5088.24 --> 5088.38] You -[5088.38 --> 5088.66] Guys -[5088.66 --> 5089.22] Thank -[5089.22 --> 5089.36] You -[5089.36 --> 5089.78] Malachi -[5089.78 --> 5090.96] And -[5090.96 --> 5091.68] Mr. -[5091.76 --> 5092.06] Steve -[5092.06 --> 5100.36] I -[5100.36 --> 5100.60] Tied -[5100.60 --> 5100.68] Him -[5100.68 --> 5100.84] So -[5100.84 --> 5101.08] Tight -[5101.08 --> 5101.26] So -[5101.26 --> 5101.38] That -[5101.38 --> 5101.48] You -[5101.48 --> 5101.70] Wouldn't -[5101.70 --> 5102.00] Die -[5102.00 --> 5102.96] I -[5102.96 --> 5103.08] Was -[5103.08 --> 5103.28] Really -[5103.28 --> 5103.70] Concerned -[5103.70 --> 5103.80] That -[5103.80 --> 5103.92] Your -[5103.92 --> 5104.12] Mother -[5104.12 --> 5104.28] Would -[5104.28 --> 5104.40] Get -[5104.40 --> 5104.60] Mad -[5104.60 --> 5104.68] At -[5104.68 --> 5104.78] Me -[5104.78 --> 5104.96] For -[5104.96 --> 5105.34] Using -[5105.34 --> 5105.54] You -[5105.54 --> 5105.70] Up -[5105.70 --> 5105.88] Here -[5105.88 --> 5118.88] Of -[5118.88 --> 5119.40] Course -[5119.40 --> 5120.32] This -[5120.32 --> 5120.82] Picture -[5120.82 --> 5121.82] Means -[5121.82 --> 5122.46] We -[5122.46 --> 5122.68] Don't -[5122.68 --> 5122.82] Do -[5122.82 --> 5122.96] It -[5122.96 --> 5123.24] Alone -[5123.24 --> 5124.84] There's -[5124.84 --> 5125.04] Even -[5125.04 --> 5125.44] More -[5125.44 --> 5125.98] That -[5125.98 --> 5126.20] Goes -[5126.20 --> 5126.52] On -[5126.52 --> 5127.64] Right -[5127.64 --> 5128.06] Because -[5128.06 --> 5129.14] Even -[5129.14 --> 5129.64] As -[5129.64 --> 5129.94] We -[5129.94 --> 5130.56] Together -[5130.56 --> 5131.04] In -[5131.04 --> 5131.64] Community -[5131.64 --> 5132.44] Are -[5132.44 --> 5132.80] Holding -[5132.80 --> 5133.04] Each -[5133.04 --> 5133.24] Other -[5133.24 --> 5133.54] Up -[5133.54 --> 5133.72] And -[5133.72 --> 5134.36] Allowing -[5134.36 --> 5134.58] Us -[5134.58 --> 5134.76] To -[5134.76 --> 5135.32] Stretch -[5135.32 --> 5135.70] In -[5135.70 --> 5135.86] Our -[5135.86 --> 5136.50] Relationship -[5136.50 --> 5136.66] To -[5136.66 --> 5137.12] God -[5137.12 --> 5137.70] So -[5137.70 --> 5137.86] That -[5137.86 --> 5137.98] We -[5137.98 --> 5138.26] Might -[5138.26 --> 5138.66] Know -[5138.66 --> 5139.06] How -[5139.06 --> 5139.50] Wide -[5139.50 --> 5139.90] Long -[5139.90 --> 5140.78] And -[5140.78 --> 5141.12] High -[5141.12 --> 5141.38] And -[5141.38 --> 5141.66] Deep -[5141.66 --> 5142.04] Is -[5142.04 --> 5142.28] The -[5142.28 --> 5142.52] Love -[5142.52 --> 5142.72] Of -[5142.72 --> 5143.08] Christ -[5143.08 --> 5143.50] There's -[5143.50 --> 5143.90] Still -[5143.90 --> 5144.82] More -[5144.82 --> 5146.42] Verse -[5146.42 --> 5146.86] 19 -[5146.86 --> 5148.86] And -[5148.86 --> 5149.06] To -[5149.06 --> 5149.50] Know -[5149.50 --> 5150.12] This -[5150.12 --> 5150.76] Love -[5150.76 --> 5151.06] That -[5151.06 --> 5151.76] Surpasses -[5151.76 --> 5153.06] Knowledge -[5153.06 --> 5153.94] And -[5153.94 --> 5154.04] Then -[5154.04 --> 5154.14] In -[5154.14 --> 5154.30] Verse -[5154.30 --> 5154.64] 20 -[5154.64 --> 5155.38] Paul -[5155.38 --> 5155.84] Says -[5155.84 --> 5156.18] Now -[5156.18 --> 5156.32] To -[5156.32 --> 5156.62] Him -[5156.62 --> 5156.84] Who -[5156.84 --> 5157.02] Is -[5157.02 --> 5157.34] Able -[5157.34 --> 5157.54] To -[5157.54 --> 5157.78] Do -[5157.78 --> 5158.96] Immeasurably -[5158.96 --> 5159.44] More -[5159.44 --> 5159.96] Than -[5159.96 --> 5160.18] All -[5160.18 --> 5160.36] We -[5160.36 --> 5160.80] Ask -[5160.80 --> 5161.44] Or -[5161.44 --> 5161.84] Imagine -[5161.84 --> 5163.44] Because -[5163.44 --> 5163.56] You -[5163.56 --> 5163.68] See -[5163.68 --> 5163.80] At -[5163.80 --> 5163.90] The -[5163.90 --> 5164.20] End -[5164.20 --> 5164.46] There -[5164.46 --> 5164.68] Is -[5164.68 --> 5165.10] Still -[5165.10 --> 5165.54] This -[5165.54 --> 5166.22] Mystery -[5166.22 --> 5196.22] -[5196.22 --> 5197.64] West -[5197.64 --> 5197.66] West -[5197.66 --> 5197.86] Way -[5197.86 --> 5197.88] Way -[5197.88 --> 5198.06] For -[5198.06 --> 5198.32] Everyone -[5198.32 --> 5198.58] Oh -[5198.58 --> 5198.84] He's -[5198.84 --> 5199.12] Hiding -[5199.12 --> 5201.16] This -[5201.16 --> 5201.64] Is -[5201.64 --> 5201.88] The -[5201.88 --> 5202.46] Story -[5202.46 --> 5202.90] And -[5202.90 --> 5203.10] The -[5203.10 --> 5203.60] Community -[5203.60 --> 5203.94] Of -[5203.94 --> 5204.30] Faith -[5204.30 --> 5205.14] Lived -[5205.14 --> 5205.34] And -[5205.34 --> 5206.28] Experienced -[5206.28 --> 5207.36] Together -[5207.36 --> 5209.44] And -[5209.44 --> 5210.24] These -[5210.24 --> 5210.68] Are -[5210.68 --> 5210.94] The -[5210.94 --> 5211.84] Truths -[5211.84 --> 5212.28] That -[5212.28 --> 5212.42] We -[5212.42 --> 5212.86] Take -[5212.86 --> 5213.58] And -[5213.58 --> 5213.96] These -[5213.96 --> 5214.14] Are -[5214.14 --> 5214.28] The -[5214.28 --> 5214.78] Truths -[5214.78 --> 5214.92] That -[5214.92 --> 5215.12] Make -[5215.12 --> 5215.36] Us -[5215.36 --> 5215.74] Sing -[5215.74 --> 5216.28] To -[5216.28 --> 5216.76] Him -[5216.76 --> 5217.16] Be -[5217.16 --> 5217.44] The -[5217.44 --> 5217.92] Glory -[5217.92 --> 5218.96] Forever -[5218.96 --> 5220.10] And -[5220.10 --> 5220.44] Ever -[5220.44 --> 5221.96] And -[5221.96 --> 5222.08] So -[5222.08 --> 5222.24] When -[5222.24 --> 5222.38] You -[5222.38 --> 5222.62] Guys -[5222.62 --> 5222.92] Sing -[5222.92 --> 5223.20] Living -[5223.20 --> 5223.46] For -[5223.46 --> 5223.78] Jesus -[5223.78 --> 5224.16] You're -[5224.16 --> 5224.38] Giving -[5224.38 --> 5224.62] Him -[5224.62 --> 5225.04] Glory -[5225.04 --> 5225.70] And -[5225.70 --> 5225.88] So -[5225.88 --> 5226.34] Amen -[5226.34 --> 5226.90] And -[5226.90 --> 5227.30] Amen -[5227.30 --> 5228.48] When -[5228.48 --> 5228.74] We -[5228.74 --> 5229.26] Sing -[5229.26 --> 5229.62] Living -[5229.62 --> 5229.92] For -[5229.92 --> 5230.26] Jesus -[5230.26 --> 5230.58] Or -[5230.58 --> 5230.86] Whatever -[5230.86 --> 5231.38] Song -[5231.38 --> 5231.56] It -[5231.56 --> 5231.80] Is -[5231.80 --> 5232.06] This -[5232.06 --> 5232.20] Is -[5232.20 --> 5232.62] Amazing -[5232.62 --> 5233.06] Grace -[5233.06 --> 5233.24] We -[5233.24 --> 5233.38] Are -[5233.38 --> 5233.60] Giving -[5233.60 --> 5233.88] Him -[5233.88 --> 5234.08] The -[5234.08 --> 5234.44] Glory -[5234.44 --> 5235.26] Forever -[5235.26 --> 5236.02] And -[5236.02 --> 5236.28] Ever -[5236.28 --> 5236.54] And -[5236.54 --> 5236.86] As -[5236.86 --> 5237.50] We -[5237.50 --> 5238.06] Go -[5238.06 --> 5238.52] Out -[5238.52 --> 5239.00] This -[5239.00 --> 5239.34] Morning -[5239.34 --> 5240.62] Whether -[5240.62 --> 5240.80] You -[5240.80 --> 5240.94] Are -[5240.94 --> 5241.08] A -[5241.08 --> 5241.46] Cadet -[5241.46 --> 5242.06] A -[5242.06 --> 5242.36] Parent -[5242.36 --> 5242.52] Of -[5242.52 --> 5242.62] A -[5242.62 --> 5242.92] Cadet -[5242.92 --> 5243.08] Or -[5243.08 --> 5243.36] Someone -[5243.36 --> 5243.64] Here -[5243.64 --> 5243.84] In -[5243.84 --> 5244.00] This -[5244.00 --> 5244.34] Church -[5244.34 --> 5245.34] Go -[5245.34 --> 5247.32] Holding -[5247.32 --> 5247.70] The -[5247.70 --> 5248.00] Hand -[5248.00 --> 5248.20] Of -[5248.20 --> 5248.50] Faith -[5248.50 --> 5248.76] With -[5248.76 --> 5249.24] Someone -[5250.44 --> 5251.18] Lean Out -[5251.18 --> 5251.42] And -[5251.42 --> 5251.92] Stretch -[5251.92 --> 5252.48] In -[5252.48 --> 5252.62] Their -[5252.62 --> 5253.12] Relationship -[5253.12 --> 5253.26] To -[5253.26 --> 5253.44] God -[5253.44 --> 5253.62] And -[5253.62 --> 5253.92] Go -[5253.92 --> 5254.48] Clinging -[5254.48 --> 5254.64] To -[5254.64 --> 5254.78] The -[5254.78 --> 5255.06] Hand -[5255.06 --> 5255.22] Of -[5255.22 --> 5255.88] Faith -[5255.88 --> 5256.10] Of -[5256.10 --> 5256.40] Someone -[5256.40 --> 5256.66] That -[5256.66 --> 5257.00] You -[5257.00 --> 5257.46] Might -[5257.46 --> 5257.88] Lean -[5257.88 --> 5258.30] Out -[5258.30 --> 5258.62] And -[5258.62 --> 5259.10] Stretch -[5259.10 --> 5259.52] And -[5259.52 --> 5259.90] Grow -[5259.90 --> 5260.46] In -[5260.46 --> 5261.12] Relationship -[5261.12 --> 5261.26] To -[5261.26 --> 5261.50] Jesus -[5261.50 --> 5261.80] Because -[5261.80 --> 5262.36] That -[5262.36 --> 5263.04] Is -[5263.04 --> 5263.44] Why -[5263.44 --> 5263.94] We -[5263.94 --> 5264.68] Are -[5264.68 --> 5265.00] Here -[5265.00 --> 5265.82] That's -[5265.82 --> 5265.98] Why -[5265.98 --> 5266.18] We -[5266.18 --> 5266.42] Do -[5266.42 --> 5266.96] This -[5266.96 --> 5267.80] Together -[5267.80 --> 5268.58] That -[5268.58 --> 5268.94] Is -[5268.94 --> 5269.18] The -[5269.18 --> 5269.74] Purpose -[5269.74 --> 5270.50] Of -[5270.50 --> 5270.96] Our -[5270.96 --> 5271.94] Being -[5271.94 --> 5273.68] And -[5273.68 --> 5273.82] To -[5273.82 --> 5274.20] That -[5274.20 --> 5275.16] All -[5275.16 --> 5275.42] Y'all -[5275.42 --> 5275.76] Say -[5275.76 --> 5276.90] Amen -[5276.90 --> 5277.66] Let's -[5277.66 --> 5277.80] Pray -[5277.80 --> 5278.10] Together -[5278.10 --> 5283.64] Lord -[5283.64 --> 5284.26] Our -[5284.26 --> 5285.06] God -[5285.06 --> 5286.54] You -[5286.54 --> 5287.20] Are -[5287.20 --> 5288.20] Amazing -[5288.20 --> 5289.50] Your -[5289.50 --> 5290.04] Grace -[5290.04 --> 5290.86] Is -[5290.86 --> 5291.92] Amazing -[5291.92 --> 5293.58] The -[5293.58 --> 5294.10] Majesty -[5294.10 --> 5294.72] Of -[5294.72 --> 5294.98] Who -[5294.98 --> 5295.22] You -[5295.22 --> 5295.60] Are -[5295.60 --> 5295.92] And -[5295.92 --> 5296.14] What -[5296.14 --> 5296.28] You -[5296.28 --> 5296.44] Have -[5296.44 --> 5296.84] Done -[5296.84 --> 5298.58] Compels -[5298.58 --> 5299.02] Us -[5299.02 --> 5299.60] To -[5299.60 --> 5300.46] Sing -[5300.46 --> 5303.28] And -[5303.28 --> 5303.52] So -[5303.52 --> 5303.90] Today -[5303.90 --> 5304.48] Take -[5304.48 --> 5305.36] These -[5305.36 --> 5306.48] Truths -[5306.48 --> 5307.84] Plant -[5307.84 --> 5308.16] Them -[5308.16 --> 5308.56] Deep -[5308.56 --> 5309.34] In -[5309.34 --> 5309.72] Our -[5309.72 --> 5310.38] Hearts -[5310.38 --> 5310.88] Of -[5310.88 --> 5311.44] Faith -[5311.44 --> 5313.10] Take -[5313.10 --> 5313.64] These -[5313.64 --> 5314.68] Truths -[5314.68 --> 5316.00] And -[5316.00 --> 5316.78] Transform -[5316.78 --> 5317.40] Our -[5317.40 --> 5317.72] Inner -[5317.72 --> 5318.12] Being -[5318.12 --> 5318.48] By -[5318.48 --> 5318.70] Your -[5318.70 --> 5319.00] Holy -[5319.00 --> 5319.46] Spirit -[5319.46 --> 5320.44] So -[5320.44 --> 5320.60] That -[5320.60 --> 5320.94] We -[5320.94 --> 5321.42] Might -[5321.42 --> 5321.68] Be -[5321.68 --> 5322.08] Rooted -[5322.08 --> 5322.84] And -[5322.84 --> 5323.66] Established -[5323.66 --> 5323.86] So -[5323.86 --> 5324.00] That -[5324.00 --> 5324.26] We -[5324.26 --> 5324.68] Too -[5324.68 --> 5325.02] With -[5325.02 --> 5325.26] The -[5325.26 --> 5325.70] Cadets -[5325.70 --> 5325.96] Might -[5325.96 --> 5326.18] Be -[5326.18 --> 5326.64] Rooted -[5326.64 --> 5327.18] And -[5327.18 --> 5327.96] Grounded -[5327.96 --> 5328.32] In -[5328.32 --> 5328.62] Who -[5328.62 --> 5328.90] You -[5328.90 --> 5329.18] Are -[5329.18 --> 5329.60] In -[5329.60 --> 5330.28] Your -[5330.28 --> 5330.94] Love -[5330.94 --> 5332.76] So -[5332.76 --> 5332.88] That -[5332.88 --> 5333.02] We -[5333.02 --> 5333.28] All -[5333.28 --> 5333.64] Together -[5333.64 --> 5333.96] Might -[5333.96 --> 5334.28] Know -[5334.28 --> 5334.68] And -[5334.68 --> 5334.98] Might -[5334.98 --> 5335.36] Sing -[5335.36 --> 5335.64] How -[5335.64 --> 5336.14] High -[5336.14 --> 5337.08] And -[5337.08 --> 5337.28] How -[5337.28 --> 5337.68] Wide -[5337.68 --> 5338.44] In -[5338.44 --> 5338.70] Jesus -[5338.70 --> 5339.04] Name -[5339.04 --> 5339.22] We -[5339.22 --> 5339.48] Pray -[5339.48 --> 5340.74] Amen -[5340.74 --> 5348.80] Let's -[5348.80 --> 5349.06] Rise -[5349.06 --> 5349.46] Together -[5349.46 --> 5349.78] As -[5349.78 --> 5349.94] We -[5349.94 --> 5350.20] Sing -[5350.20 --> 5350.48] This -[5359.60 --> 5365.04] uda -[5379.36 --> 5383.90] Du -[5383.90 --> 5395.90] You bring us things that You have prepared for everyone who has believed. -[5397.90 --> 5412.90] You brought us here and You called us Your own and made us Your hands with Your soul. -[5413.90 --> 5428.90] How high and how high, how deep and how long, how sweet and how strong is Your love. -[5428.90 --> 5443.90] How lavish Your grace, how faithful Your ways, how great is Your love alone. -[5443.90 --> 5458.90] Objects of mercy who should have no lack were filled with unseekable joy. -[5458.90 --> 5474.90] Riches of wisdom, unseekable wealth, and the wonder of glory Your Lord. -[5474.90 --> 5490.90] You are our treasure and our great reward. Our home and our glory of sin. -[5490.90 --> 5505.90] How high and how wide, how deep and how long, how sweet and how strong is Your love. -[5505.90 --> 5517.90] How lavish Your grace, how faithful Your ways, how great is Your love. -[5517.90 --> 5535.90] How lavish Your grace, how faithful Your ways, how great is Your love. -[5535.90 --> 5552.90] How lavish Your grace, how faithful Your ways, how great is Your love, O Lord. -[5552.90 --> 5582.88] How lavish Your grace, how faithful Your love. -[5582.88 --> 5584.88] How helemaal do be, how Why'Do journal Pharisees, how great is hypocrites, how noble and how risky führt your life. -[5584.88 --> 5586.88] How righte je WHY, how Army marih. -[5586.88 --> 5589.88] And how how 하나 does Your Gates' dawg take from His mount to His tara, who you untere güven and what you can't step past. -[5589.88 --> 5598.88] How cool does that dare take me to step aside and to help this month oruição, my thoughts, what else, how light Your life. -[5598.88 --> 5601.42] That's happening at the Connect booth back there. -[5601.90 --> 5604.34] Following the blessing, we'll sing our closing song. -[5605.00 --> 5609.16] And then as we go out, if you would like to pray with someone or receive prayer, -[5609.86 --> 5612.74] there will be someone here at the front with a yellow name tag on. -[5612.82 --> 5615.58] They'd love to meet you and pray with you together. -[5616.12 --> 5621.14] As you go, know that God goes with you and so receive his blessing for the journey ahead. -[5623.22 --> 5625.32] God, go before you to lead you. -[5626.06 --> 5628.12] God, go behind you to protect you. -[5628.12 --> 5630.66] God, go beneath you to support you. -[5631.00 --> 5633.38] And God, go beside you to befriend you. -[5633.88 --> 5635.54] Do not be afraid. -[5636.04 --> 5637.86] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5638.00 --> 5643.76] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5644.60 --> 5645.10] Amen. -[5658.12 --> 5663.50] God, go before you. -[5663.50 --> 5667.88] You're a lion of Judah, the Lamb who was saved. -[5668.08 --> 5672.12] You ascended to heaven and evermore with your age. -[5672.28 --> 5676.18] At the end of the age when the earth will be blue, -[5676.44 --> 5679.74] we will gather the nations before you. -[5679.74 --> 5687.36] And the eyes will fall and you'll be fixed on a lamb who was crucified. -[5687.36 --> 5696.88] With wisdom and mercy and justice sorted at your Father's side. -[5696.88 --> 5698.62] And the angels will cry. -[5698.62 --> 5699.14] And the angels will cry. -[5699.14 --> 5704.56] Hail the land. -[5704.56 --> 5710.98] Who was saved for the world ruling by. -[5710.98 --> 5715.66] And the angels will cry. -[5715.66 --> 5719.66] You shall reign. -[5719.66 --> 5726.38] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords. -[5726.38 --> 5737.88] There's a shield in our hand and a sword at our side. -[5738.12 --> 5741.88] There's a fire in our spirits that cannot be denied. -[5742.22 --> 5746.22] As the Father has told us, for these you have died. -[5746.44 --> 5749.84] For the nations to gather before you. -[5749.84 --> 5779.82] And the years will fall and you'll be saved. -[5779.84 --> 5781.84] And the earth will cry. -[5781.84 --> 5784.84] And the earth will cry. -[5784.84 --> 5786.84] You shall reign. -[5786.84 --> 5788.84] You shall reign. -[5788.84 --> 5794.84] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords. -[5794.84 --> 5796.84] And the angels will cry. -[5796.84 --> 5800.84] Hail the Lamb. -[5800.84 --> 5807.84] Who was saved for the world ruling by. -[5807.84 --> 5809.84] And the earth will cry. -[5809.84 --> 5811.84] Who was saved for the world ruling by. -[5811.84 --> 5813.84] And the earth will cry. -[5813.84 --> 5815.84] You shall reign. -[5815.84 --> 5822.84] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords. -[5822.84 --> 5828.84] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords. -[5828.84 --> 5831.84] Oh. -[5831.84 --> 5833.84] Ah. -[5833.84 --> 5835.84] Ah. -[5835.84 --> 5837.84] Ah. -[5837.84 --> 5839.84] Ah. -[5839.84 --> 5841.84] Ah. -[5841.84 --> 5843.84] Ah. -[5843.84 --> 5844.84] Ah. -[5844.84 --> 5874.82] Thank you. -[5874.84 --> 5904.82] Thank you. -[5904.84 --> 5906.84] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, February 4, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, February 4, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 70be7ddb9a312982abcb4c569c3d82a9abc55459..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, February 4, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,207 +0,0 @@ -• The power of God's grace and forgiveness in overcoming shame and regret -• The importance of looking back on past mistakes with a sense of freedom from guilt -• The concept of being a "prodigal" and receiving God's love and acceptance despite failures -• The idea that all past mistakes are erased by God's grace -• The role of faith and prayer in experiencing God's love and forgiveness -• The power of worship and praise to celebrate God's goodness and redemption -• Various announcements for church events, including a women's retreat and youth coffee -• Registration for an event and getting help with registration details -• Coldest Night of the Year initiative on February 24th, raising awareness for poverty, homelessness, addiction, and supporting the Gateway of Hope -• Walking and fundraising event to support local organization and community -• Friendly competition between teams -• Lost glasses at Cadets event on Thursday night -• Worship service -• Life with faith and power -• The child on every side is secure -• Christ's price for dying -• The earth as a nation -• Bright shine of light and the risen sun -• Lift your eyes, you are His great and bright -• Rise of the church, O God -• Seeing Christ where love and mercy mean -• The Son of God stricken and foes beneath His feet -• The conqueror is risen -• Christ emerges from the grave -• He will be the King -• Holy Spirit, God in every step -• Radiant God -• Praise and worship of God as a Holy Trinity -• Acknowledging spiritual struggles and seeking forgiveness -• Recognizing the magnitude of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross -• Understanding salvation through Christ's victory over death -• Living as a "living sacrifice" in joyful submission to God -• Remembrance of the Heidelberg Catechism and Lord's Day One -• Belonging to Jesus Christ and receiving eternal life -• Longing for a deeper relationship with God and seeking renewal -• Confessing sin and asking for forgiveness -• Praising God as the source of life and breath in our lungs. -• Jesus is calling and inviting people to come to the altar -• The precious blood of Jesus Christ brings forgiveness -• Alleluia, Christ is risen, repeated multiple times -• Bow down before Him, for He is Lord of all -• A blessing and prayer is given for a family leaving the church -• A prayer is read from Romans 15, asking God to fill them with joy and peace as they trust in Him -• Prayers for Justin and Amanda's family as they start new service at Fleetwood -• Invitation to lay hands on them or hold their hand out in prayer -• Prayer for the Rauchema family, asking God to bless them and send them out with His power and love -• Announcement of today's offering for North American Indigenous Ministries -• Children's blessing and discussion about being "all in" on something -• Discussion of a Lego set -• Talk about being "all in" on various things (eating ice cream, going to outer space, getting a kitty or tiger) -• Reference to the book of Matthew and the Lord's Supper table -• Mention of worship time and the children's blessing -• Introduction by Dave, an elder at the church -• Prayer and confession -• Gratitude for creation, seasons, and life -• Confession of sin against each other and God -• Recognition of idols (work, career, possessions, etc.) and seeking help to put them aside -• Thanking God for church leadership, Pastor Chris, Pastor Kevin, Josh, and the church council -• Appreciation for various ministries and volunteers in the church -• Expressing gratitude and condolences to community members who have experienced losses -• Supporting Mary Joan and Kevin during their time of mourning -• Celebrating Hank Van Eyck's life and memorial service -• Welcoming Marlene Bylinga back into the community after her move -• Praying for those experiencing grief, unemployment, and underemployment -• Recognizing the work of North American Indigenous Ministries and Tim and Charity -• Discussion of a message to be heard about being living sacrifices and not conforming to the world -• Request for prayer for Chris leading the reflection time -• Invitation to open Bibles or follow along on devices -• Reading from Romans 12:1-2 -• Explanation of offering bodies as living sacrifices and worship -• Discussion of transformation by renewing minds -• 17-year anniversary mentioned -• Rachel's personal growth and sacrifice discussed -• Theme of giving everything to God introduced -• Text from Romans 12 referenced -• Importance of understanding the meaning behind scripture emphasized -• The relationship between faith and justification -• Paul's defense of the theology in Romans 9-11 -• God's Word to Israel not having failed -• The only way to be justified is through grace alone by faith alone in Christ alone -• Faith and justification through faith -• Peace with God through Jesus Christ -• Access to grace by faith -• The glory of God is the ultimate goal -• Boasting in hope of God's glory -• God's mercy and forgiveness are essential themes -• Repentance and return to God are necessary -• The nature of God's mercy and its relationship to human desire and effort -• A comparison between mercy as an analog or expression of what came before in a certain section -• God's statement on receiving mercy not depending on human desire but on His mercy -• The concept of little words having significant meaning, specifically three Greek letters in the word "little" -• An introduction to the theology of the next 11 chapters and how they will undergird church practices -• God's sovereignty -• The only foundation for living -• The gospel as truth that makes the kind of calling God puts on our lives reasonable and possible -• Paul's teaching on offering one's body as a living sacrifice to God -• The concept of a living sacrifice in modern minds, though considered strange by many -• Sacrificing the living as a form of offering -• Difference between dead and living sacrifices -• Continuous nature of living sacrifices, never-ending or stopping -• Relationship between faithfulness and living sacrifice -• Surrender of one's will to God's plan -• Connection between Jesus' prayer in the Garden and living sacrifice -• The importance of living in the present and following one's own path -• The idea that individuality and authenticity are valued in modern culture -• The message to follow one's joy and not be controlled by external expectations or pressures -• The concept of a world where people are free to express themselves without fear of judgment or rejection -• The notion that being true to oneself is the key to happiness and fulfillment -• A critique of societal norms and expectations that can stifle individuality and creativity -• The idea that living in accordance with one's own values and principles is essential for a fulfilling life. -• The Christian life -• Trust in God -• Sacrificing personal desires and ego -• Putting faith in God's plan and will -• Recognizing God's omniscience and omnipotence -• Surrendering to God's truth and authority -• Living a life surrendered to God, rather than self-will -• Suffering as a means of participating in Christ's sufferings -• Christian response to societal pressures and expectations -• Sacrifice vs individualism and autonomy -• Living a life that follows God's word, even if it feels like death -• The importance of surrendering personal desires for the sake of faith -• Cultural imposition of a certain philosophy -• Happiness as the ultimate arbiter of what is good -• God's will vs personal happiness and conformity to the world -• The Bible's teachings on what God wants from humans -• Holiness as a fundamental aspect of being set apart by God -• The abundant life that God designed for His creatures, but is hard to achieve due to human opposition -• The problem with living sacrifice and walking off the altar in one's heart -• The desire not to do what one does not want to do, specifically sacrificing something valuable -• Christianity's unique relationship with sacrifice and living a sacrificial life -• Influence of Christianity on modern society -• Christian teachings and their legacy in areas such as education, health care, and human rights -• Relationship between Christianity and secularism -• Origins of modern institutions like universities and hospitals -• Spread of Christian ideas and ideals into the broader culture -• Philosophical and anthropological discussions on the concept of being human -• The idea that humans are masters of their own destinies and should be free to choose who they want to be -• The concept of living a Christian life as being the opposite of being right or real, but rather giving oneself over to God's mercy and sacrifices -• The importance of selflessness and giving oneself to God, letting go of individual claims and desires -• Death and life as opposites -• Gospel of Jesus as key to understanding -• True life found on the other side of death -• Living sacrifice as paradoxical concept -• Worship as surrender to God, not just Sunday activities -• Fuel for worship is grace through Jesus -• Worship and sacrifice -• Sacrificing one's narrow joy for the joy of joining God's mission -• The idea that true worship is sacrificing oneself to God -• The concept of offering one's body as a living sacrifice to God -• The relationship between worship, sacrifice, and eternal joy -• The interpretation of biblical translations on worship and sacrifice -• The phrase "true and proper worship" is actually just one word in Greek: Logikon -• Logikon means rational or logically consequent, but it's only possible to understand this concept with a deep sense of God's mercy and justification by faith alone -• If what God did in Jesus Christ doesn't move you, you haven't fully comprehended it yet -• To those outside the Christian faith, such behavior can seem irrational and incomprehensible -• Examples given include giving money to church instead of spending on vacation, not having sex until married, and not having a social media account -• The speaker asks what is being called upon to offer as a living sacrifice today -• A key passage from Romans 12 is quoted: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind" -• This phrase is unique in Paul's writing and means to change one's mind or perspective completely -• Transformation is a deep inner change that comes from the Lord, not outward conformity -• The intellectual aspect of transformation involves learning and knowing God's word -• Renewing one's mind through the Spirit and Word of God leads to transformation -• Worship results from this transformation, sacrificing oneself for all of God -• Two key realizations should be present in people's minds: discomfort with their current lives and a willingness to sacrifice for God. -• The concept of mortifying oneself or putting things to death in one's life -• Recognizing the merciful love of God as the foundation for trusting in His love -• Understanding that nothing can separate us from God's love through Christ Jesus -• Embracing self-sacrifice and offering oneself to God based on His love, not earned but given -• An analogy about coaching a soccer team and investing time in a child to develop their skills -• Discussion about a person's struggles in sports -• The speaker's unwavering love for the person regardless of their performance -• The importance of living out one's faith and offering sacrifices to God -• A prayer is mentioned at the end, but no specific details are given. -• Invitation to come together as a church family -• Overview of the liturgy and steps for worship -• Invitation to participate in speaking specific words during the service -• Prayer of thanksgiving to God for creation and provision -• Praise to God for his graciousness and covenant with humanity -• The Lord Jesus Christ gave thanks and broke bread to symbolize his body for us -• He also took the cup after supper, saying it was the new covenant in his blood -• Eating and drinking this bread and cup proclaims the Lord's death until he comes again -• This is a mystery of our faith -• We proclaim Christ's death and affirm his resurrection with joy and await his coming with hope -• Inviting guests to come to the table -• Procedure for receiving communion -• Option for guests unable to come to the front to receive communion -• Availability of prayer at the back of the room -• The body of Christ given for the speaker and others -• Serving and following those who will lead them in song -• Eating and remembering the blood of Christ shed for them -• Receiving thanks and appreciation multiple times -• Praise and worship, including references to Christ's sacrifice and redemption -• A description of a radiant bride waiting for her groom with beauty and light -• Multiple expressions of gratitude and praise, ending with an "Amen" -• Praise and worship to Jesus Christ -• Discussion of sacrifice, pain, and redemption through the cross and resurrection -• Reference to the "sinner" and seeking forgiveness and pardon -• Declaration of surrender and devotion to God -• Adoration and glorification of God's name and attributes -• Acknowledgment of salvation and new life in Christ -• Salvation through Jesus' love -• Praise and worship of God -• Overcoming sin and debt -• The empty tomb and resurrection -• Anniversary celebration and communion with the saints -• Benediction and blessing from God \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, February 4, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, February 4, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 9b39418e0f022fe48408266fd758feb6048e0259..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, February 4, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,4309 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 3.20] Holy is the Lord -[3.20 --> 23.88] I've seen shame -[23.88 --> 27.24] The kind that comes from mistakes -[27.24 --> 30.26] The kind that won't go away -[30.26 --> 32.00] When I turned around -[32.00 --> 34.92] They were up there to remind me -[34.92 --> 36.66] I've seen regret -[36.66 --> 40.42] The kind that messes with your head -[40.42 --> 43.48] The failures and the can't forget -[43.48 --> 45.22] But standing in now -[45.22 --> 48.12] I'm thanking God it's behind me -[48.12 --> 50.16] Cause I've seen nails -[50.16 --> 51.94] God hands reach out -[51.94 --> 54.16] And wipe it all away -[54.16 --> 57.02] Now I see grace -[57.02 --> 60.26] Hallelujah, I stand amazed -[60.26 --> 63.56] I'm staring at an empty grave -[63.56 --> 67.46] And the stone that you rolled away -[67.46 --> 70.28] When I was a prodigal -[70.28 --> 71.54] You saw so -[71.54 --> 73.62] When I left the night and I -[73.62 --> 74.98] You saw one -[74.98 --> 76.64] And just like that -[76.64 --> 79.90] All my past has been erased -[79.90 --> 81.66] When I look back -[81.66 --> 83.50] I see grace -[83.50 --> 86.74] I still hurt -[86.74 --> 86.76] I still hurt -[86.76 --> 90.00] Fall short on what you say I'm worth -[90.00 --> 91.96] And that devil says -[91.96 --> 93.94] I don't deserve what you did -[93.94 --> 94.78] On the cross -[94.78 --> 95.56] And he's right -[95.56 --> 96.34] Cause I don't -[96.34 --> 98.38] But you did it anyway -[98.38 --> 99.98] I see grace -[99.98 --> 103.18] Hallelujah, I stand amazed -[103.18 --> 106.42] I'm staring at an empty grave -[106.42 --> 106.52] I'm staring at an empty grave -[106.52 --> 109.72] And the stone that you rolled away -[109.72 --> 113.12] When I was a prodigal -[113.12 --> 114.32] You saw so -[114.32 --> 117.70] When I left the night and I knew someone -[117.70 --> 119.42] And just like that -[119.42 --> 122.66] All my past has been erased -[122.66 --> 124.66] When I look back -[124.66 --> 126.86] I see grace -[126.86 --> 127.72] Grace -[127.72 --> 132.26] God's grace -[132.26 --> 135.42] Grace that is greater than all my sin -[135.42 --> 136.66] Faith God Almighty -[136.66 --> 138.76] Homecoming -[138.76 --> 138.96] please -[142.86 --> 142.96] Prayer -[142.96 --> 143.84] Hope -[143.84 --> 144.76] I was a snake -[144.76 --> 146.80] Come keep -[146.80 --> 147.18] a dozen -[147.18 --> 147.64] And sing -[147.64 --> 148.26] Ele בח -[148.26 --> 149.18] bien -[149.18 --> 150.10] Your love -[150.10 --> 150.14] By new -[150.14 --> 150.90] oops -[150.90 --> 150.98] I am -[150.98 --> 151.90] I see grace -[151.90 --> 153.90] I see grace -[153.90 --> 155.04] Hallelujah, I stand amazed -[155.66 --> 156.58] It's amazing -[156.58 --> 158.10] You do -[158.10 --> 159.04] You do -[159.04 --> 159.54] Our holiness -[159.54 --> 160.78] Are zeker -[160.78 --> 161.00] José -[161.00 --> 162.12] All my 그다음에 -[162.12 --> 163.12] May -[163.12 --> 164.40] I am -[164.40 --> 165.68] May -[165.68 --> 167.68] ko -[195.68 --> 197.68] Oh, grace. -[197.68 --> 199.68] Oh, grace. -[199.68 --> 205.68] Grace that is greater than all I see. -[225.68 --> 227.68] Oh, grace. -[227.68 --> 229.68] Thank you. -[229.68 --> 231.68] Thank you. -[255.68 --> 258.68] He's coming on the clouds. -[258.68 --> 262.68] Kings and kingdoms will bow down. -[266.68 --> 269.68] And every chain will break. -[269.68 --> 273.68] His broken hearts declare his praise. -[273.68 --> 278.68] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[278.68 --> 284.68] Our God is the lion, the lion of doom. -[284.68 --> 286.68] Good morning. -[286.68 --> 290.68] Welcome to church this morning. -[290.68 --> 294.68] If you are a guest with us, my name is Chris and I'm one of the pastors here. -[294.68 --> 300.68] And it's my privilege, along with a few others, to lead in our worship together this morning. -[300.68 --> 303.68] Before we begin, there are a couple announcements to make. -[303.68 --> 305.68] And so I'm going to invite Linda to come up to the front. -[305.68 --> 307.68] And then after Linda, Nikki's going to come up. -[307.68 --> 311.68] And they're going to roll through just a couple announcements. -[311.68 --> 317.68] I did want to announce, while they're making their way up, that youth coffee is this morning. -[317.68 --> 320.68] And so that's for people in our youth program. -[320.68 --> 330.68] Or if you are in that age group of grade eight through high school, you can go hang out at the Rollemans house after church today for coffee and lunch and the like. -[330.68 --> 332.68] And so Rollemans, wave your hands. -[332.68 --> 333.68] There you go. -[333.68 --> 334.68] Need directions. -[334.68 --> 335.68] That's them. -[335.68 --> 336.68] Or Pastor Kevin can also help. -[336.68 --> 337.68] Kevin, wave your hand. -[337.68 --> 338.68] There he is. -[338.68 --> 341.68] He'll get you there together. -[341.68 --> 342.68] Please. -[342.68 --> 343.68] Good morning. -[343.68 --> 347.68] My name is Linda and I'm from the women's ministry team. -[347.68 --> 352.68] I just want to give you an update on the women's retreat that's coming up March the 8th. -[352.68 --> 356.68] Just to remind you, registration deadline is February the 9th. -[356.68 --> 359.68] And the payment deadline is February 16th. -[359.68 --> 363.68] If you did sign up, put your name on the list, you should have received an email. -[363.68 --> 367.68] And that email would have given you a link with all the registration details. -[367.68 --> 374.68] If you need help with the registration or if you'd like to sign up or if you have questions, we'll be at the Connect booth at the back of the church. -[374.68 --> 379.68] So come and join us and we'll talk to you then. -[379.68 --> 381.68] Good morning. -[381.68 --> 388.68] I just want to draw your attention again to an initiative that we are joining here in Langley, the coldest night of the year. -[388.68 --> 391.68] And this is happening on February 24th. -[391.68 --> 393.68] So in a few weeks now. -[393.68 --> 399.68] If you look up here, you can see just a wonderful group of people that you might want to be a part of this year. -[399.68 --> 403.68] If you haven't or if you have and want to be a part of it again. -[403.68 --> 412.68] We are walking and raising awareness for issues such as poverty and homelessness, addiction in our community and supporting the Gateway of Hope, -[412.68 --> 418.68] which is a local organization who works with people struggling with those things every day. -[418.68 --> 427.68] So if you want to be a part of the team, you would be committing to doing some sort of fundraising or raising awareness for this organization. -[427.68 --> 433.68] And then on February 24, we gather at Gateway of Hope with everybody who has supported them. -[433.68 --> 437.68] Together we walk a five kilometer route that they have mapped out. -[437.68 --> 443.68] And then you are welcome to also stay there for a light meal at Gateway of Hope. -[443.68 --> 447.68] And you can chat with others from our team or other teams. -[447.68 --> 452.68] And then that all is kind of wrapped up between, I don't remember the times. -[452.68 --> 456.68] I think it's kind of between 5 and 7 p.m. on the 24th. -[456.68 --> 459.68] But you can come and ask me or Google it for more info. -[459.68 --> 461.68] We'd love to have you on our team. -[461.68 --> 468.68] In the past, a few years ago, we were their number one fundraisers for a couple years. -[468.68 --> 473.68] And we were kind of challenged by the Living Waters, I think. -[473.68 --> 479.68] They kind of beat us out last year and wanted to join a friendly competition, which we haven't committed to. -[479.68 --> 481.68] But if, you know, we blew them out of the water, why not? -[481.68 --> 483.68] So come and join us if you have questions. -[483.68 --> 486.68] Feel free to talk to me after the service. -[487.68 --> 490.68] Nicky, did you just invite us to blow them out of the Living Water? -[490.68 --> 498.68] Living Waters Church is also one of our, was last season one of our rivals in baseball. -[498.68 --> 500.68] And they beat us there, so we need to beat them here. -[503.68 --> 506.68] Before we begin, one last announcement. -[506.68 --> 510.68] Thursday night, Cadets was hosted here. -[510.68 --> 514.68] And there was a pair of glasses that were left after that event. -[514.68 --> 519.68] So if you were part of Cadets or picked up or dropped off one of the boys at Cadets and you left your glasses here, -[519.68 --> 521.68] talk to me afterwards. -[521.68 --> 522.68] I have them in my study. -[522.68 --> 524.68] I would love to give them to you. -[524.68 --> 528.68] Let's stand together as we come into God's presence for worship. -[532.68 --> 541.68] We gather in the presence of our good God and we receive his greeting as he meets us in this place in power. -[541.68 --> 550.68] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, Son, and our Savior, -[550.68 --> 553.68] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[554.68 --> 555.68] Amen. -[556.68 --> 559.68] I'm going to invite you to turn to those around you and welcome them into worship. -[559.68 --> 562.68] That can be with a handshake or a head nod. -[564.68 --> 566.68] . -[566.68 --> 567.68] . -[567.68 --> 579.68] Isaiah 60 verses 1 to 3 says, -[579.68 --> 586.68] Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of us will be the glory of us. -[586.68 --> 587.68] . -[587.68 --> 588.68] . -[588.68 --> 589.68] . -[589.68 --> 590.68] . -[590.68 --> 591.68] . -[591.68 --> 592.68] . -[592.68 --> 593.68] . -[593.68 --> 594.68] . -[594.68 --> 595.68] . -[595.68 --> 596.68] . -[596.68 --> 603.68] . -[603.68 --> 604.68] . -[604.68 --> 605.68] . -[605.68 --> 612.68] . -[612.68 --> 613.68] . -[613.68 --> 614.68] . -[614.68 --> 615.68] . -[615.68 --> 622.68] . -[622.68 --> 623.68] . -[623.68 --> 624.68] . -[624.68 --> 625.68] . -[625.68 --> 627.68] . -[627.68 --> 628.68] . -[628.68 --> 629.68] . -[629.68 --> 632.68] . -[632.68 --> 633.68] . -[633.68 --> 635.68] . -[635.68 --> 637.68] . -[637.68 --> 639.68] . -[639.68 --> 640.68] . -[640.68 --> 648.30] Oh, church of God, say, church of our own -[648.30 --> 652.30] In the call of Christ our captain -[652.30 --> 658.16] For now we say that they are strong -[658.16 --> 661.64] In the strength of God's healing -[661.64 --> 667.16] Shield of faith and of truth -[667.16 --> 672.12] We stand against the devil's lies -[672.12 --> 677.66] On and on, the battle of God is born -[677.66 --> 681.04] Reaching out to the walls of God -[681.04 --> 694.84] Our call to the Lord, to love the Catholic soul -[694.84 --> 698.76] But to reach the midst of the captain -[698.76 --> 704.50] In this war, that makes the world more -[704.50 --> 707.82] In the life with faith and power -[707.82 --> 713.48] In this with child on every side -[713.48 --> 717.80] They know the outcome is secure -[717.80 --> 723.94] And Christ will have, the price for which he died -[723.94 --> 727.92] Where the earth is the nation -[727.92 --> 737.98] A bright shine for your light as bright -[737.98 --> 747.32] A bright shine for the risen sun -[747.32 --> 757.30] Lift your eyes, you are His great and bright -[757.30 --> 764.72] The rise of church, O God -[764.72 --> 771.32] I see Christ, where love and mercy means -[771.86 --> 775.32] As the Son of God is stricken -[775.32 --> 781.50] And see His foes, my flesh beneath His feet -[781.50 --> 785.48] For the conqueror is risen -[785.48 --> 790.44] As the Son of God is all awake -[790.44 --> 795.24] And Christ emerges from His grave -[795.24 --> 799.32] His pleasure comes to His sin -[799.32 --> 801.32] And He will be the King -[801.32 --> 803.50] Every heart and heart shall see -[803.50 --> 805.50] And He will be the King -[805.50 --> 809.48] He is the Holy Spirit, God -[809.48 --> 813.34] In every step my another -[813.34 --> 815.66] In every step ac frenesty -[815.66 --> 817.66] Oh -[845.66 --> 847.66] Oh -[875.66 --> 877.66] Oh -[905.66 --> 908.62] We are -[908.62 --> 909.42] His -[909.42 --> 911.74] Radiant -[911.74 --> 913.04] God -[913.04 --> 914.16] Oh -[914.16 --> 915.00] The -[915.00 --> 918.14] Church -[918.14 --> 919.16] Oh -[919.16 --> 919.98] I -[919.98 --> 921.54] I -[921.54 --> 923.54] I -[923.54 --> 925.54] I -[925.54 --> 927.54] I -[927.54 --> 929.54] I -[929.54 --> 931.54] I -[931.54 --> 933.54] I -[933.54 --> 937.42] I -[937.42 --> 939.42] I -[939.42 --> 941.42] I -[941.42 --> 943.42] I -[943.42 --> 945.42] I -[945.42 --> 947.42] I -[947.42 --> 949.42] I -[949.42 --> 951.42] I -[951.42 --> 953.42] I -[953.42 --> 955.42] I -[955.42 --> 957.42] I -[957.42 --> 959.42] I -[959.42 --> 961.42] I -[961.42 --> 963.42] I -[963.42 --> 964.10] I -[964.10 --> 965.42] To -[965.42 --> 967.42] Calvary -[968.32 --> 969.42] Where -[970.42 --> 971.04] Jesus -[971.04 --> 973.42] blathered -[973.42 --> 974.80] And died -[974.80 --> 975.54] For -[975.54 --> 976.70] me -[976.70 --> 977.42] I -[977.42 --> 977.76] I -[977.76 --> 978.30] I -[978.30 --> 979.30] I -[979.30 --> 980.30] I -[980.30 --> 981.30] I -[981.30 --> 983.30] I -[983.30 --> 985.30] I -[985.30 --> 986.30] I -[987.50 --> 989.30] I -[989.30 --> 991.30] I -[991.30 --> 992.30] I -[992.30 --> 993.30] I -[993.30 --> 1003.14] He's falling out and drenched in tears -[1003.14 --> 1010.26] Been laid down in Joseph's tomb -[1010.26 --> 1017.56] He had dressed still by heavy stone -[1017.56 --> 1024.78] Messiah still and all alone -[1024.78 --> 1036.78] O praise the name of the Lord our God -[1036.78 --> 1043.92] O praise His name forevermore -[1043.92 --> 1051.06] For endless days we will sing Your praise -[1051.06 --> 1057.14] O Lord, O Lord our God -[1057.14 --> 1067.30] Break a hurt and break a tongue -[1067.30 --> 1074.44] The Son of Heaven rose again -[1074.44 --> 1080.52] O temple down where is Your sting -[1080.52 --> 1087.66] He's just called, O Christ the King -[1087.66 --> 1098.86] O praise the name of the Lord our God -[1098.86 --> 1106.00] O praise His name forevermore -[1106.00 --> 1112.08] For endless days we will sing Your praise -[1112.08 --> 1119.22] O Lord, O Lord our God -[1119.22 --> 1128.76] Shall return in robes of white -[1129.36 --> 1136.20] The holy sun shall pierce the night -[1136.20 --> 1143.58] Then I will rise upon the saints -[1143.58 --> 1151.34] My haste transmits on Jesus' face -[1151.34 --> 1156.42] O Lord, O Lord our God -[1156.42 --> 1158.78] Ha' name, O Lord our Father -[1158.78 --> 1159.62] How'd you abre the mind -[1159.62 --> 1160.48] So praise May God -[1160.48 --> 1161.48] Am O Lord our God -[1161.48 --> 1163.26] God -[1163.26 --> 1164.34] Of course -[1164.34 --> 1165.42] We are through modest -[1165.42 --> 1165.48] O Lord our God -[1165.48 --> 1166.48] Every day we have -[1166.48 --> 1168.24] O Lord our God -[1168.24 --> 1170.44] To Christ -[1170.44 --> 1171.52] Or our God -[1171.52 --> 1172.92] We are through -[1172.92 --> 1173.76] Lord our God -[1173.76 --> 1174.62] That we are ng working -[1174.62 --> 1175.62] Amen. -[1204.62 --> 1206.62] Amen. -[1234.62 --> 1236.62] Amen. -[1264.62 --> 1266.62] Amen. -[1266.62 --> 1268.62] Amen. -[1268.62 --> 1270.62] Amen. -[1270.62 --> 1272.62] Amen. -[1272.62 --> 1274.62] Amen. -[1274.62 --> 1276.62] Amen. -[1276.62 --> 1278.62] Amen. -[1278.62 --> 1280.62] Amen. -[1280.62 --> 1282.62] Amen. -[1282.62 --> 1284.62] Amen. -[1284.62 --> 1293.62] God, Father, Spirit, Son, Holy Trinity, Three in One, we praise your name in response to what you have done. -[1293.62 --> 1303.62] Forgive us when we get lost in the mystery of your sovereignty and spiral with questions in our mind instead of bringing everything to you in worship, even our doubts. -[1303.62 --> 1313.62] Offer us your mercy again and open our hearts to understand the magnitude of what you have done for us as you will reveal to us in your word. -[1313.62 --> 1321.62] Open our eyes that we may see past our apathy towards your gospel and truly see the sacrifice you gave on the cross. -[1321.62 --> 1329.62] That your Son, Jesus Christ, died the death we deserve, taking our sin upon himself. -[1329.62 --> 1336.62] That in Christ's victory over the grave, we rise with him in victory to live as sons and daughters of eternity. -[1336.62 --> 1344.62] May we not be deaf to this truth, but joyfully submit our lives to you as a living sacrifice in graceful worship. -[1344.62 --> 1356.62] May we know and live this truth as we are reminded in the Heidelberg Catechism and Lord's Day One, proclaiming what our only comfort in life and death is. -[1356.62 --> 1365.62] That I am not my own, but belong, body and soul, and life and death, and my faithful Savior, Jesus Christ. -[1365.62 --> 1375.62] He was the only day for all my sins with his precious blood, and that set me free from the tyranny of the devil. -[1375.62 --> 1384.62] He also watches over me in such a way that my care can fall from my head without the will of my Father in heaven. -[1384.62 --> 1389.62] In fact, all things must work together for my salvation. -[1389.62 --> 1396.62] Because I belong to him, Christ, by his Holy Spirit, assures me of eternal life, -[1396.62 --> 1402.62] and makes me wholeheartedly willing and ready from now on to live with the kingdom. -[1402.62 --> 1423.62] I belong to him. -[1423.62 --> 1430.62] So bring me the joy of my salvation. -[1430.62 --> 1439.62] Take me back to where it all began. -[1439.62 --> 1451.62] Lord, I am the one who is your presence. -[1451.62 --> 1453.62] How I want you. -[1453.62 --> 1455.62] I want you. -[1455.62 --> 1458.62] Be there once again. -[1458.62 --> 1467.62] And if I, that the world can't put out then the flame, -[1467.62 --> 1477.62] till loving between us remains, my life is an altar to you. -[1477.62 --> 1488.02] Breathe again on the endless heaven in my heart -[1488.02 --> 1492.56] I'm not taken back to the start -[1492.56 --> 1496.82] My life is an altar to you -[1496.82 --> 1506.92] You will be a pure and living spirit -[1506.92 --> 1517.32] Take me back to where it all He had -[1517.32 --> 1524.84] For it all He gave so long the game -[1528.84 --> 1535.04] How I longed you to be there once again -[1535.04 --> 1543.44] Light a fire that the world can't burn out and burn away -[1543.44 --> 1548.44] Fill my pain between us today -[1548.44 --> 1553.44] My life is an altar to you -[1553.44 --> 1563.44] Breathe again on the embers that burn in my heart -[1563.44 --> 1567.44] And love take me back to the start -[1567.44 --> 1571.84] My life is an altar to you -[1571.84 --> 1577.84] But I'm sorry -[1577.84 --> 1583.84] Please forgive me -[1583.84 --> 1589.84] For when I'm gone cold -[1589.84 --> 1594.24] Lord I need you -[1594.24 --> 1598.64] How I need you -[1598.64 --> 1602.64] To awake my heart -[1602.64 --> 1604.64] And I'm sorry -[1604.64 --> 1610.64] That the world can't burn out and burn away -[1610.64 --> 1614.64] Till nothing between us remains -[1614.64 --> 1623.04] My life is an altar to you -[1623.04 --> 1629.04] Breathe again on the embers that burn in my heart -[1629.04 --> 1633.04] I'm not taken back to the start -[1633.04 --> 1637.44] My life is an altar to you -[1637.44 --> 1651.76] As open, as you trail -[1651.76 --> 1652.44] I'm not taken from now -[1652.44 --> 1653.44] I'm not taken from now -[1653.44 --> 1655.32] Your lack is an altar to you -[1655.32 --> 1656.40] Plant that burn in my heart -[1656.40 --> 1657.88] My life is an altar to you -[1657.88 --> 1664.50] All the earth will shout your praise -[1664.50 --> 1669.26] Our hearts will cry, each foes will sing -[1669.26 --> 1676.70] Great are you, Lord -[1676.70 --> 1682.84] All the earth will shout your praise -[1682.84 --> 1687.62] Our hearts will cry, each foes will sing -[1687.62 --> 1694.46] Great are you, Lord -[1694.46 --> 1701.12] All the earth will shout your praise -[1701.12 --> 1705.92] Our hearts will cry, each foes will sing -[1705.92 --> 1713.28] Great are you, Lord -[1713.28 --> 1718.58] It's your breath in our lungs -[1718.58 --> 1721.84] So we pour out our praise -[1721.84 --> 1723.88] We pour out our praise -[1723.88 --> 1727.58] It's your breath in our lungs -[1727.58 --> 1730.84] So we pour out our praise -[1730.84 --> 1732.58] You always -[1732.58 --> 1736.70] It's your breath in our lungs -[1736.70 --> 1740.00] So we pour out our praise -[1740.00 --> 1741.96] We pour out our praise -[1741.96 --> 1745.72] It's your breath in our lungs -[1745.72 --> 1748.86] So we pour out our praise -[1748.86 --> 1762.36] God, I'm sorry -[1762.36 --> 1768.40] Please forgive me -[1768.40 --> 1774.28] For when I've gone cold -[1774.28 --> 1777.96] Lord, I need you -[1777.96 --> 1782.84] How I need you -[1782.84 --> 1789.24] To awake my soul -[1789.24 --> 1814.50] For you are deep and broken within -[1814.50 --> 1820.16] Overwhelmed by the weight of your sin -[1820.16 --> 1822.92] Jesus is calling -[1822.92 --> 1830.76] Have you come to the end of yourself? -[1830.76 --> 1835.80] Do you thirst for a drink from the well? -[1835.80 --> 1838.46] Jesus is calling -[1838.46 --> 1845.18] Welcome to the altar -[1845.18 --> 1850.80] The Father's arms are open wide -[1850.80 --> 1855.62] Forgiveness was bought with -[1855.62 --> 1861.80] The precious blood of Jesus Christ -[1861.80 --> 1872.18] Jesus is calling -[1872.18 --> 1873.42] Leave your mind -[1873.42 --> 1876.38] To the press and the states -[1876.38 --> 1878.06] Come today -[1878.06 --> 1881.16] There's no reason to wait -[1881.16 --> 1883.72] Jesus is calling -[1883.72 --> 1888.72] Bring your sorrows -[1888.72 --> 1890.80] And drink and the joy -[1890.80 --> 1893.38] When the ashes -[1893.38 --> 1895.94] A new life is born -[1895.94 --> 1898.54] Jesus is calling -[1898.54 --> 1905.18] Welcome to the altar -[1905.18 --> 1910.52] The Father's arms are open wide -[1910.52 --> 1915.12] Forgiveness was bought with -[1915.12 --> 1919.80] The precious blood of Jesus Christ -[1919.80 --> 1920.40] Oh, Jesus Christ -[1920.40 --> 1922.24] Forgiveness was bought with -[1922.24 --> 1929.20] The precious blood of Jesus Christ -[1929.20 --> 1934.74] Forgiveness was bought with -[1934.74 --> 1941.50] The precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[1951.50 --> 1961.12] Our Savior, isn't He wonderful? -[1961.12 --> 1968.40] Sing Alleluia, Christ is risen. -[1970.88 --> 1981.16] Bow down before Him, for He is Lord of all. -[1981.16 --> 1987.32] Sing Alleluia, Christ is risen. -[1991.12 --> 1993.62] Oh, what a Savior. -[1995.94 --> 1999.54] Isn't He wonderful? -[2000.68 --> 2006.12] Sing Alleluia, Christ is risen. -[2009.12 --> 2018.12] Bow down before Him, for He is Lord of all. -[2018.12 --> 2025.12] Sing Alleluia, Christ is risen. -[2025.12 --> 2032.12] Bow down before Him, for He is Lord of all. -[2032.12 --> 2034.40] Come to the altar. -[2034.40 --> 2039.98] The Father's arms are open wide. -[2040.34 --> 2049.40] Forgiveness was bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[2049.40 --> 2056.40] May He is Lord of all. -[2056.40 --> 2058.68] The Father's arms are open wide. -[2058.68 --> 2068.40] Forgiveness was bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[2068.40 --> 2069.40] He is Lord of all. -[2069.40 --> 2070.40] He is Lord of all. -[2070.40 --> 2071.40] He is Lord of all. -[2071.40 --> 2073.40] He is Lord of all. -[2073.40 --> 2074.40] He is Lord of all. -[2074.40 --> 2078.40] He is Lord of all. -[2078.40 --> 2082.40] Bear your cross as you wait for the crown. -[2082.40 --> 2088.40] Tell the world of the treasure you've found. -[2088.40 --> 2105.40] Tell the Lord of all. -[2105.40 --> 2115.76] Before we worship in our offering, we just wanted to take a moment and acknowledge and send and pray for the Raukema family. -[2116.62 --> 2122.46] Some of you have heard already, but Justin has accepted the call to be the lead pastor -[2122.46 --> 2125.38] at Fleetwood CRC over in Fleetwood. -[2125.80 --> 2130.76] And so they will be, they're not cheering because you left, they're excited for you -[2130.76 --> 2133.08] and your professional career. -[2135.58 --> 2141.84] And so the Raghmas have been with us for a little while, about a year now, and they -[2141.84 --> 2146.82] became part of us in the midst of transitions in life and the like. -[2147.70 --> 2151.36] And we have been their church family for the last year. -[2151.48 --> 2156.18] And so we really did want to send you guys out with prayer and with blessing. -[2156.96 --> 2159.06] And so we're going to do that really quickly. -[2159.06 --> 2164.34] And so Raghmas, those of you who have agreed to come up to the front, would you please -[2164.34 --> 2167.92] come up to the front and we're going to pray over you together. -[2171.84 --> 2178.28] Why don't you come up here for a moment and then we'll move down in a second. -[2179.74 --> 2181.94] I know I didn't say all the way up on stage. -[2182.04 --> 2182.62] Sorry, girls. -[2183.84 --> 2184.18] No, no, no. -[2184.24 --> 2185.76] I mean, like now all the way. -[2185.80 --> 2187.90] I didn't warn you all the way up on stage. -[2188.02 --> 2188.30] Sorry. -[2190.42 --> 2192.44] We're all just fumbling our way forward here. -[2192.54 --> 2192.98] That's it. -[2192.98 --> 2201.04] Our prayer for you and for your family is Paul's prayer in Romans 15. -[2201.82 --> 2202.46] Paul says, -[2202.80 --> 2208.76] May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him so that you may overflow -[2208.76 --> 2211.72] with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. -[2211.72 --> 2219.54] We want that for you as you begin in this community, in this service, and in this Church of Jesus -[2219.54 --> 2219.96] Christ. -[2220.48 --> 2227.06] And as you go from us to lead them, may you always know that God is with you and go in -[2227.06 --> 2228.54] the hope and the power of his name. -[2229.50 --> 2233.38] Justin, in your work, always remember Paul's words to Timothy. -[2234.10 --> 2234.64] He says, -[2234.64 --> 2235.42] Preach the word. -[2235.84 --> 2238.06] Be prepared in season and out of season. -[2238.26 --> 2242.58] Correct, rebuke, and encourage with great patience and careful instruction. -[2243.36 --> 2246.54] For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. -[2246.98 --> 2251.28] Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers -[2251.28 --> 2254.22] to say what their itching ears want to hear. -[2255.18 --> 2258.36] They'll turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. -[2259.08 --> 2263.06] But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, -[2263.06 --> 2268.42] do the work of the evangelist, and discharge all the duties of your ministry. -[2269.40 --> 2273.60] That's the call for the work that we are privileged to do. -[2274.12 --> 2278.86] I pray that the Lord surrounds you not with people whose ears are itching for what they -[2278.86 --> 2284.12] want to hear, but for whose ears are longing for the words of Christ. -[2284.80 --> 2287.42] May you preach to them the words of Christ. -[2288.30 --> 2292.32] We're going to pray over Justin and Amanda and their family, and so I'm going to invite you -[2292.32 --> 2293.60] guys to go down in front of the table. -[2294.70 --> 2298.92] If you're an elder here, or if you've been on a journey of life and faith with the Rauchemas, -[2299.26 --> 2304.14] or if you just love them and want to pray over them, we invite you to come up now at this time, -[2304.60 --> 2310.48] lay hands on them, and if you don't want to come to the front but would like to hold your hand out -[2310.48 --> 2314.08] in so doing, we invite you and encourage you to do that as well. -[2314.08 --> 2333.44] Holy God and Heavenly Father, -[2334.40 --> 2341.88] from the beginning of time, you have called people into service for your name, -[2341.88 --> 2346.40] and you have charged them to proclaim your gospel. -[2348.54 --> 2351.94] God, how beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news, -[2352.48 --> 2358.14] and how absolutely critical for our salvation is the proclamation of that truth. -[2358.14 --> 2366.06] And so for Justin, and for the whole Rauchema family, we pray your blessing upon them now. -[2367.50 --> 2371.68] Send them out in the power of your Holy Spirit that they might know your constant provision, -[2372.14 --> 2378.24] they might know your constant nearness, they might know your constant always and forever love. -[2378.24 --> 2386.06] And with Paul, we pray, may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, -[2386.56 --> 2390.50] so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. -[2391.00 --> 2393.74] In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. -[2394.56 --> 2394.94] Amen. -[2394.94 --> 2400.56] You may have to see. Thank you. -[2404.22 --> 2407.88] Justin officially starts tomorrow at Fleetwood, -[2408.04 --> 2410.84] and so if you can grab them after service and encourage them -[2410.84 --> 2413.26] and send them out with a blessing, that would be appreciated. -[2414.22 --> 2416.12] Now we can invite the deacon up to the front. -[2416.12 --> 2416.16] Amen. -[2416.16 --> 2416.56] Amen. -[2424.94 --> 2443.00] Good morning. -[2443.58 --> 2448.34] Today's offering is for name through North American Indigenous Ministries. -[2448.34 --> 2453.46] Tim and Charity Johnson and their family work with the Shuswap First Nations -[2453.46 --> 2457.08] to develop relationships with youth and young families. -[2457.66 --> 2462.50] They are working towards a grounded and strong identity and understanding -[2462.50 --> 2466.44] of who the creator is and the love he has for all people. -[2466.74 --> 2467.20] Thank you. -[2467.20 --> 2467.26] Thank you. -[2467.26 --> 2471.26] Thank you. -[2483.46 --> 2485.46] Thank you. -[2485.46 --> 2513.44] Thank you. -[2513.46 --> 2520.46] Jesus, I give you all. -[2520.46 --> 2528.94] Every part of me cries out your name. -[2528.94 --> 2534.20] Jesus, I give you all. -[2534.20 --> 2564.18] Lord, I want to be pleasing to you. -[2564.20 --> 2565.04] Lord, I want you all. -[2565.04 --> 2576.02] Lord, I want you all to hold my light and be the one that you shine through. -[2577.20 --> 2584.70] Jesus, I give you all. -[2584.70 --> 2588.74] Every heart of me -[2588.74 --> 2591.44] Rise out shortly -[2591.44 --> 2597.28] Jesus I give you all -[2597.28 --> 2603.44] And all in glory -[2603.44 --> 2607.48] And all in glory -[2607.48 --> 2610.88] And all in glory -[2610.88 --> 2618.72] Jesus I give you all -[2618.72 --> 2623.10] Every heart of me -[2623.10 --> 2626.06] Rise out shortly -[2626.06 --> 2633.06] Jesus I give you all -[2633.06 --> 2637.18] Living and holy -[2637.18 --> 2640.66] Living and holy -[2640.66 --> 2643.18] Living and holy -[2643.18 --> 2647.02] Living and holy for you -[2647.02 --> 2659.14] Good morning -[2659.14 --> 2660.30] If I can invite all the -[2660.30 --> 2661.44] I think three year olds -[2661.44 --> 2662.24] Up to grade four -[2662.24 --> 2664.52] Come on up for a children's blessing -[2664.52 --> 2675.30] Hi guys -[2675.30 --> 2677.78] It's been a while since I've seen you -[2677.78 --> 2678.38] How are you? -[2679.20 --> 2679.72] Good -[2679.72 --> 2681.68] Hey do you guys know what the term -[2681.68 --> 2683.84] All in means? -[2684.64 --> 2685.16] No -[2685.16 --> 2687.26] When you're all in on something -[2687.26 --> 2689.58] You put in all the cards -[2689.58 --> 2691.28] You put in all your energy -[2691.28 --> 2693.10] What do you think that means? -[2693.10 --> 2694.92] Going full out -[2694.92 --> 2695.94] Fully committed -[2695.94 --> 2697.62] Well when it comes to Lego -[2697.62 --> 2698.72] I'm all in -[2698.72 --> 2699.68] Can you tell? -[2700.54 --> 2701.88] I got me a hat -[2701.88 --> 2703.94] And I got me a watch -[2703.94 --> 2705.86] And I got me a homemade necklace -[2705.86 --> 2708.24] And I take the catalogs with me -[2708.24 --> 2709.02] Everywhere I go -[2709.02 --> 2710.00] Just in case -[2710.00 --> 2711.28] The Christmas one -[2711.28 --> 2712.46] And the recent one -[2712.46 --> 2713.68] Maybe you guys just got it -[2713.68 --> 2714.08] In the mail -[2714.08 --> 2716.18] I even packed a little bit of Lego -[2716.18 --> 2717.72] Along for the afternoon -[2717.72 --> 2719.40] I won't play with it in church -[2719.40 --> 2720.76] So I'll pay attention -[2720.76 --> 2722.54] But I brought this Lego set -[2722.54 --> 2723.24] Right? -[2723.62 --> 2724.60] I can show you guys later -[2724.60 --> 2725.62] Oh man -[2725.62 --> 2726.58] Is there anything you guys -[2726.58 --> 2727.62] Are all in about? -[2728.46 --> 2729.64] What do you guys have ideas? -[2734.54 --> 2734.90] You're -[2734.90 --> 2735.84] Oh really? -[2735.90 --> 2736.86] You're also all in about Lego? -[2736.94 --> 2737.40] What about -[2737.40 --> 2738.30] What are you all in on? -[2739.30 --> 2740.18] Video games -[2740.18 --> 2740.88] For sure -[2740.88 --> 2742.22] Music? -[2742.50 --> 2743.06] Nice choice -[2743.06 --> 2743.64] What about -[2743.64 --> 2744.52] Let me ask you some questions -[2744.52 --> 2747.12] Would you guys be all in -[2747.12 --> 2748.38] For like -[2748.38 --> 2749.52] Eating ice cream -[2749.52 --> 2750.28] Every day? -[2750.78 --> 2750.96] Yeah? -[2751.18 --> 2751.52] Who would? -[2751.60 --> 2751.96] Who would? -[2752.26 --> 2752.90] Yeah me too -[2752.90 --> 2753.54] For sure -[2753.54 --> 2754.40] What about -[2754.40 --> 2755.82] Would you be all in -[2755.82 --> 2757.36] On going -[2757.36 --> 2758.72] To outer space? -[2759.82 --> 2760.02] Oh -[2760.02 --> 2760.76] Oh -[2760.76 --> 2762.32] Maybe -[2762.32 --> 2762.64] I know -[2762.64 --> 2763.70] That's -[2763.70 --> 2764.18] Okay -[2764.18 --> 2764.80] What about -[2764.80 --> 2765.88] Would you be all in -[2765.88 --> 2767.10] On getting a kitty? -[2768.10 --> 2768.46] Okay -[2768.46 --> 2768.94] Okay -[2768.94 --> 2769.28] Sure -[2769.28 --> 2770.02] What about -[2770.02 --> 2771.42] Would you be all in -[2771.42 --> 2773.04] On getting a tiger? -[2773.06 --> 2774.32] Who? -[2775.32 --> 2775.72] Oh -[2775.72 --> 2776.70] Not quite -[2776.70 --> 2776.98] Oh -[2776.98 --> 2777.62] I know -[2777.62 --> 2778.12] Sometimes -[2778.12 --> 2779.34] There's things -[2779.34 --> 2780.48] That we know -[2780.48 --> 2781.34] We should be all in -[2781.34 --> 2781.52] On -[2781.52 --> 2781.84] We're like -[2781.84 --> 2782.28] Well -[2782.28 --> 2783.86] Like a tiger -[2783.86 --> 2784.98] Or the outer space -[2784.98 --> 2785.58] It's just -[2785.58 --> 2786.18] I don't know -[2786.18 --> 2787.44] Maybe that's a bit much -[2787.44 --> 2789.82] Yeah -[2789.82 --> 2791.74] Totally on toys -[2791.74 --> 2793.18] So we're going to talk more -[2793.18 --> 2794.04] About what it means -[2794.04 --> 2794.92] To be all in -[2794.92 --> 2795.32] And in -[2795.32 --> 2796.18] Worship time -[2796.18 --> 2796.98] Children's worship time -[2796.98 --> 2798.02] We've been doing -[2798.02 --> 2798.82] The book of -[2798.82 --> 2799.70] Matthew -[2799.70 --> 2801.42] You guys may remember -[2801.42 --> 2802.24] So today we're going to -[2802.24 --> 2802.94] Keep talking about -[2802.94 --> 2803.56] The book of Matthew -[2803.56 --> 2804.56] And there is a -[2804.56 --> 2806.28] Big verse in the book of Matthew -[2806.28 --> 2807.76] That calls us to be all in -[2807.76 --> 2808.90] For certain something -[2808.90 --> 2809.76] Okay -[2809.76 --> 2810.22] And -[2810.22 --> 2810.70] Here -[2810.70 --> 2811.24] Do you guys see the -[2811.24 --> 2812.26] Lord's supper table here? -[2812.74 --> 2814.14] There's another reminder -[2814.14 --> 2814.94] To us -[2814.94 --> 2815.96] About how Jesus -[2815.96 --> 2817.56] Was all in -[2817.56 --> 2818.56] For us -[2818.56 --> 2819.18] So -[2819.18 --> 2820.22] We have that reminder -[2820.22 --> 2820.90] To look forward to -[2820.90 --> 2821.46] Today too -[2821.46 --> 2822.24] Okay -[2822.24 --> 2823.28] And we'll talk more -[2823.28 --> 2824.30] In children's worship time -[2824.30 --> 2824.52] Okay -[2824.52 --> 2825.70] Let's stand together -[2825.70 --> 2826.46] And we'll do the -[2826.46 --> 2827.34] Children's blessing -[2827.34 --> 2828.70] We'll bless our -[2828.70 --> 2830.30] Family and friends -[2830.30 --> 2831.06] That are staying here -[2831.06 --> 2831.68] For the service -[2831.68 --> 2832.92] And they will bless us -[2832.92 --> 2834.12] As we go to learn more -[2834.12 --> 2835.46] In worship time -[2835.46 --> 2836.48] Alright -[2836.48 --> 2839.98] The Lord be with you -[2839.98 --> 2841.88] And also with you -[2841.88 --> 2864.04] Good morning -[2864.04 --> 2865.16] My name is Dave -[2865.16 --> 2866.04] I'm one of the elders -[2866.04 --> 2867.12] For this church community -[2867.12 --> 2868.76] I was reminded today -[2868.76 --> 2869.68] That it is my turn -[2869.68 --> 2871.34] To do our church family prayer -[2871.34 --> 2873.44] I was reminded -[2873.44 --> 2876.74] This won't be -[2876.74 --> 2877.96] Well rehearsed -[2877.96 --> 2879.50] But it is going to be sincere -[2879.50 --> 2882.50] Can we pray to our -[2882.50 --> 2883.16] Father together -[2883.16 --> 2886.36] Father -[2886.36 --> 2887.68] This is the day -[2887.68 --> 2888.42] That you have made -[2888.42 --> 2889.34] We rejoice -[2889.34 --> 2889.88] And we are -[2889.88 --> 2891.78] And we are glad in it -[2891.78 --> 2892.92] We thank you -[2892.92 --> 2893.72] For the opportunity -[2893.72 --> 2894.32] To meet us -[2894.32 --> 2894.94] Your church -[2894.94 --> 2895.88] And the church -[2895.88 --> 2895.94] And the church -[2895.94 --> 2896.62] And the church -[2896.62 --> 2896.72] And the church -[2896.72 --> 2897.56] And the church -[2897.56 --> 2898.88] To celebrate your name -[2898.88 --> 2899.72] Father -[2899.72 --> 2900.62] We praise you -[2900.62 --> 2901.48] For the creation -[2901.48 --> 2902.12] Around us -[2902.12 --> 2903.38] The place where we live -[2903.38 --> 2905.44] We praise you -[2905.44 --> 2906.52] For this winter time -[2906.52 --> 2908.58] And all the seasons -[2908.58 --> 2909.54] That we can enjoy -[2909.54 --> 2912.26] And like the early -[2912.26 --> 2913.62] Story of the creation -[2913.62 --> 2914.68] We look out -[2914.68 --> 2915.20] And we see -[2915.20 --> 2916.26] That it is very good -[2916.26 --> 2917.82] Father -[2917.82 --> 2918.60] It is very important -[2918.60 --> 2919.36] That we come to you -[2919.36 --> 2920.36] In a time of confession -[2920.36 --> 2921.34] We confess -[2921.34 --> 2922.64] That we sin -[2922.64 --> 2923.48] Against each other -[2923.48 --> 2924.58] And we sin -[2924.58 --> 2925.26] Against you -[2925.26 --> 2926.46] We confess -[2926.46 --> 2928.38] The things -[2928.38 --> 2929.10] That we have done -[2929.10 --> 2930.58] And not done -[2930.58 --> 2931.94] We confess -[2931.94 --> 2932.50] The things -[2932.50 --> 2933.18] That we have said -[2933.18 --> 2933.72] And the things -[2933.72 --> 2934.74] That we have not said -[2934.74 --> 2936.04] Father -[2936.04 --> 2937.38] We confess -[2937.38 --> 2938.48] That we have many idols -[2938.48 --> 2941.18] Anything that it is -[2941.18 --> 2942.44] That we put before you -[2942.44 --> 2944.02] Our idols -[2944.02 --> 2944.86] Can be our work -[2944.86 --> 2945.60] Our career -[2945.60 --> 2946.72] Our possessions -[2946.72 --> 2947.66] Our status -[2947.66 --> 2949.22] Our nation -[2949.22 --> 2950.00] Politics -[2950.00 --> 2950.94] Ideology -[2950.94 --> 2952.00] Or our own -[2952.00 --> 2952.84] Sacred cows -[2952.84 --> 2954.78] Help us to put -[2954.78 --> 2956.80] All that aside -[2956.80 --> 2957.82] So that we can -[2957.82 --> 2958.60] Serve you better -[2958.60 --> 2960.14] By serving others -[2960.14 --> 2961.78] Father -[2961.78 --> 2962.68] We thank you -[2962.68 --> 2963.58] For the many things -[2963.58 --> 2964.18] In our lives -[2964.18 --> 2964.82] We thank you -[2964.82 --> 2965.44] For the leadership -[2965.44 --> 2966.02] That we have -[2966.02 --> 2966.64] In this church -[2966.64 --> 2967.94] We thank you -[2967.94 --> 2968.94] For Pastor Chris -[2968.94 --> 2969.76] And Pastor Kevin -[2969.76 --> 2970.36] And Josh -[2970.36 --> 2972.42] We ask that you -[2972.42 --> 2972.88] Help them -[2972.88 --> 2973.80] To faithfully share -[2973.80 --> 2974.92] Your word with us -[2974.92 --> 2976.18] We thank you -[2976.18 --> 2977.62] For our church council -[2977.62 --> 2978.34] The elders -[2978.34 --> 2979.16] And the deacons -[2979.16 --> 2979.88] Who have the -[2979.88 --> 2980.54] Responsibilities -[2980.54 --> 2981.44] For governance -[2981.44 --> 2982.38] Pastoral care -[2982.38 --> 2983.26] And benevolence -[2983.26 --> 2984.20] We thank you -[2984.20 --> 2984.84] For the important -[2984.84 --> 2985.46] Work that they -[2985.46 --> 2985.90] Could do -[2985.90 --> 2987.46] We thank you -[2987.46 --> 2987.94] For the many -[2987.94 --> 2988.48] Ministries -[2988.48 --> 2989.32] And volunteers -[2989.32 --> 2990.14] That this church -[2990.14 --> 2990.54] Has -[2990.54 --> 2992.32] Its missions -[2992.32 --> 2996.72] For meeting -[2996.72 --> 2997.56] Local needs -[2997.56 --> 2998.42] We think about -[2998.42 --> 2998.92] Nursery -[2998.92 --> 2999.76] Children's worship -[2999.76 --> 3000.18] Time -[3000.18 --> 3000.98] Gems -[3000.98 --> 3001.58] Cadets -[3001.58 --> 3002.44] Youth -[3002.44 --> 3003.26] Young adults -[3003.26 --> 3004.04] Care groups -[3004.04 --> 3004.64] And seniors -[3004.64 --> 3005.86] All of them -[3005.86 --> 3006.72] Are important -[3006.72 --> 3007.18] Ministries -[3007.18 --> 3007.84] To serve our -[3007.84 --> 3008.24] Community -[3008.24 --> 3009.12] And to bring -[3009.12 --> 3009.64] Us closer -[3009.64 --> 3010.28] To you -[3010.28 --> 3011.96] Father -[3011.96 --> 3012.56] We think about -[3012.56 --> 3013.00] The needs -[3013.00 --> 3013.60] That our church -[3013.60 --> 3014.48] Community has -[3014.48 --> 3015.58] We think about -[3015.58 --> 3016.14] Mary Joan -[3016.14 --> 3016.70] And Kevin -[3016.70 --> 3017.12] Who are going -[3017.12 --> 3017.72] To be traveling -[3017.72 --> 3019.42] As they mourn -[3019.42 --> 3019.88] The passing -[3019.88 --> 3020.94] Of Mary Joan's dad -[3020.94 --> 3022.18] We thank you -[3022.18 --> 3022.64] For the life -[3022.64 --> 3023.70] That he could live -[3023.70 --> 3024.88] And we -[3024.88 --> 3026.72] Pray for them -[3026.72 --> 3027.06] As they have -[3027.06 --> 3027.94] A time of memorial -[3027.94 --> 3029.20] And celebration -[3029.20 --> 3029.94] Of life -[3029.94 --> 3030.92] We think of -[3030.92 --> 3031.40] The family -[3031.40 --> 3031.84] Of Hank -[3031.84 --> 3033.56] Van Eyck -[3033.56 --> 3034.48] And his -[3034.48 --> 3034.88] Memorial -[3034.88 --> 3035.42] Coming up -[3035.42 --> 3035.92] On Saturday -[3035.92 --> 3036.78] We pray -[3036.78 --> 3037.18] That that -[3037.18 --> 3037.84] Be an important -[3037.84 --> 3038.60] Time for family -[3038.60 --> 3039.38] To come together -[3039.38 --> 3040.30] And celebrate -[3040.30 --> 3040.90] A life -[3040.90 --> 3041.50] That was well -[3041.50 --> 3041.86] Lived -[3041.86 --> 3043.22] We think about -[3043.22 --> 3043.60] Marlene -[3043.60 --> 3044.14] Bylinga -[3044.14 --> 3045.04] Who has been -[3045.04 --> 3045.48] Part of this -[3045.48 --> 3046.24] Community for so -[3046.24 --> 3046.58] Long -[3046.58 --> 3047.94] And has moved -[3047.94 --> 3048.40] To Vernon -[3048.40 --> 3049.34] We thank you -[3049.34 --> 3049.36] We thank you -[3049.36 --> 3050.74] For the important -[3050.74 --> 3051.68] Role she played -[3051.68 --> 3052.32] In this church -[3052.32 --> 3052.84] And at Langley -[3052.84 --> 3053.56] Christian School -[3053.56 --> 3054.52] We pray that -[3054.52 --> 3055.18] This adjustment -[3055.18 --> 3055.84] In her life -[3055.84 --> 3056.24] Will be -[3056.24 --> 3057.04] A very -[3057.04 --> 3058.98] Good one -[3058.98 --> 3059.48] For her -[3059.48 --> 3060.62] Father -[3060.62 --> 3061.24] We think about -[3061.24 --> 3061.70] All those -[3061.70 --> 3062.28] Who are grieving -[3062.28 --> 3063.36] Whether it's a loss -[3063.36 --> 3063.88] That has happened -[3063.88 --> 3064.32] Recently -[3064.32 --> 3065.36] Or if they're -[3065.36 --> 3066.16] Remembering a loss -[3066.16 --> 3066.70] That has happened -[3066.70 --> 3067.52] Some time ago -[3067.52 --> 3068.60] We pray that -[3068.60 --> 3069.36] They will continue -[3069.36 --> 3070.24] To feel the joy -[3070.24 --> 3071.06] Of friends -[3071.06 --> 3071.64] And family -[3071.64 --> 3072.54] Church community -[3072.54 --> 3073.74] And to feel -[3073.74 --> 3074.42] Your strength -[3074.42 --> 3075.20] And your comfort -[3075.20 --> 3076.98] Father we pray -[3076.98 --> 3077.52] For those -[3077.52 --> 3078.28] Who are unemployed -[3078.28 --> 3079.84] And looking for work -[3079.84 --> 3081.12] We pray for those -[3081.12 --> 3082.16] Who are underemployed -[3082.16 --> 3082.82] And looking for -[3082.82 --> 3084.54] Work that better -[3084.54 --> 3085.06] Suits them -[3085.06 --> 3086.50] We pray that -[3086.50 --> 3087.58] They will have -[3087.58 --> 3088.70] Chances to serve -[3088.70 --> 3089.94] Their community -[3089.94 --> 3090.76] Serve their family -[3090.76 --> 3091.82] Better -[3091.82 --> 3092.76] And in that way -[3092.76 --> 3093.64] They also honor -[3093.64 --> 3094.58] And glorify you -[3094.58 --> 3096.04] Father we think -[3096.04 --> 3096.70] About the offering -[3096.70 --> 3097.22] That we just -[3097.22 --> 3097.88] Collected for -[3097.88 --> 3098.58] North American -[3098.58 --> 3099.72] Indigenous ministries -[3099.72 --> 3100.64] We thank you -[3100.64 --> 3101.20] For the important -[3101.20 --> 3101.86] Work done by -[3101.86 --> 3102.56] Tim and Charity -[3102.56 --> 3104.08] We pray that -[3104.08 --> 3104.60] Their mission -[3104.60 --> 3106.56] To the -[3106.56 --> 3107.72] Shushua people -[3107.72 --> 3108.26] Around them -[3108.26 --> 3108.96] That there will -[3108.96 --> 3109.82] Be an opportunity -[3109.82 --> 3110.74] For them to -[3110.74 --> 3112.40] Share a better -[3112.40 --> 3113.44] Understanding of -[3113.44 --> 3113.94] The role of the -[3113.94 --> 3114.58] Creator in their -[3114.58 --> 3114.98] Lives -[3114.98 --> 3116.88] Father we think -[3116.88 --> 3117.58] About the message -[3117.58 --> 3118.08] That we are -[3118.08 --> 3119.28] Going to hear today -[3119.28 --> 3121.20] That we are to -[3121.20 --> 3122.40] Be living sacrifices -[3122.40 --> 3123.84] That we will not -[3123.84 --> 3124.78] Be conformed to -[3124.78 --> 3125.40] The patterns of -[3125.40 --> 3125.84] This world -[3125.84 --> 3126.82] But be transformed -[3126.82 --> 3128.14] By the renewing -[3128.14 --> 3128.80] Of our minds -[3128.80 --> 3130.46] We pray for -[3130.46 --> 3131.02] Chris who will -[3131.02 --> 3132.26] Be leading us -[3132.26 --> 3134.72] In that time -[3134.72 --> 3135.28] Of reflection -[3135.28 --> 3136.34] And we pray -[3136.34 --> 3137.30] That the words -[3137.30 --> 3137.84] He shares -[3137.84 --> 3138.78] Will be an -[3138.78 --> 3139.52] Accurate reflection -[3139.52 --> 3140.18] Of your will -[3140.18 --> 3140.94] For our lives -[3140.94 --> 3142.64] Father we pray -[3142.64 --> 3143.54] All these things -[3143.54 --> 3144.92] Not because we -[3144.92 --> 3146.08] Not because we -[3146.08 --> 3146.66] Deserve it -[3146.66 --> 3147.34] But we ask it -[3147.34 --> 3148.08] In Jesus name -[3148.08 --> 3149.38] Amen -[3149.38 --> 3164.96] If you have one -[3164.96 --> 3165.68] In front of you -[3165.68 --> 3166.00] I'm going to -[3166.00 --> 3166.30] In front of you -[3166.30 --> 3166.86] I want you to -[3166.86 --> 3168.00] Open a Bible -[3168.00 --> 3169.80] If you would -[3169.80 --> 3170.22] Like one -[3170.22 --> 3170.68] There's a few -[3170.68 --> 3171.24] At the back -[3171.24 --> 3171.96] You can grab -[3171.96 --> 3173.18] You can also -[3173.18 --> 3174.70] Turn your device -[3174.70 --> 3175.24] On if you have -[3175.24 --> 3175.66] One of those -[3175.66 --> 3176.18] With the Bible -[3176.18 --> 3176.88] App on it -[3176.88 --> 3178.00] Follow along -[3178.00 --> 3179.10] We're going to -[3179.10 --> 3180.00] Read this morning -[3180.00 --> 3181.08] From Romans 12 -[3181.08 --> 3182.72] Verse 1 and 2 -[3182.72 --> 3185.52] Let me read that -[3185.52 --> 3186.20] For us together -[3186.20 --> 3186.82] The first time -[3186.82 --> 3187.38] Through it will be -[3187.38 --> 3187.86] On the screen -[3187.86 --> 3188.34] Behind me -[3188.34 --> 3192.52] Therefore I urge -[3192.52 --> 3193.78] You brothers and -[3193.78 --> 3195.14] Sisters in view -[3195.14 --> 3196.42] Of God's mercy -[3196.42 --> 3197.94] To offer your -[3197.94 --> 3199.22] Bodies as a -[3199.22 --> 3200.32] Living sacrifice -[3200.32 --> 3201.96] Holy and pleasing -[3201.96 --> 3202.62] To God -[3202.62 --> 3204.54] This is your -[3204.54 --> 3206.06] True and proper -[3206.06 --> 3206.96] Worship -[3206.96 --> 3208.50] Do not conform -[3208.50 --> 3209.10] To the pattern -[3209.10 --> 3209.86] Of this world -[3209.86 --> 3211.04] But be transformed -[3211.04 --> 3212.36] By the renewing -[3212.36 --> 3213.76] Of your mind -[3213.76 --> 3215.78] Then you will -[3215.78 --> 3216.34] Be able to -[3216.34 --> 3217.28] Test and approve -[3217.28 --> 3218.12] What God's -[3218.12 --> 3218.96] Will is -[3218.96 --> 3219.92] His good -[3219.92 --> 3220.98] Pleasing -[3220.98 --> 3222.02] And perfect -[3222.02 --> 3223.06] Will -[3223.06 --> 3224.56] This is the -[3224.56 --> 3224.90] Word of the -[3224.90 --> 3225.10] Lord -[3225.10 --> 3231.58] So -[3231.58 --> 3232.84] True -[3232.84 --> 3233.72] Confessions -[3233.72 --> 3235.08] With Pastor -[3235.08 --> 3235.50] Chris -[3235.50 --> 3238.66] About -[3238.66 --> 3239.86] 25 minutes -[3239.86 --> 3240.32] Ago -[3240.32 --> 3241.20] Rachel -[3241.20 --> 3241.82] My lovely -[3241.82 --> 3242.38] Bride -[3242.38 --> 3243.14] Looked at -[3243.14 --> 3243.50] The order -[3243.50 --> 3244.12] Of service -[3244.12 --> 3244.64] And said -[3244.64 --> 3245.10] Oh you're -[3245.10 --> 3245.60] Preaching on -[3245.60 --> 3246.36] Romans 12 -[3246.36 --> 3247.20] Our wedding -[3247.20 --> 3247.66] Text -[3247.66 --> 3250.42] And that -[3250.42 --> 3250.76] Was the -[3250.76 --> 3251.72] First time -[3251.72 --> 3252.50] I had -[3252.50 --> 3253.08] Thought in -[3253.08 --> 3253.48] The last -[3253.48 --> 3253.86] Week of -[3253.86 --> 3254.40] Preparation -[3254.40 --> 3254.92] For today -[3254.92 --> 3255.60] That this -[3255.60 --> 3256.00] Was my -[3256.00 --> 3256.30] Wedding -[3256.30 --> 3256.74] Text -[3256.74 --> 3258.36] 17 years -[3258.36 --> 3258.70] Ago -[3258.70 --> 3259.50] Almost -[3259.50 --> 3260.18] 17 years -[3260.18 --> 3260.38] Ago -[3260.38 --> 3260.92] That math -[3260.92 --> 3261.30] Is right -[3261.30 --> 3261.66] Correct -[3261.66 --> 3262.12] Yeah -[3262.12 --> 3262.38] Good -[3262.38 --> 3266.12] And -[3266.12 --> 3268.02] That truth -[3268.02 --> 3268.86] Notwithstanding -[3268.86 --> 3269.54] May I -[3269.54 --> 3270.34] Just say -[3270.34 --> 3270.72] That -[3270.72 --> 3271.44] Rachel -[3271.44 --> 3272.20] Has learned -[3272.20 --> 3273.08] With grace -[3273.08 --> 3273.46] What it -[3273.46 --> 3273.76] Means -[3273.76 --> 3274.30] To be -[3274.30 --> 3274.82] A living -[3274.82 --> 3275.52] Sacrifice -[3275.52 --> 3276.06] Over these -[3276.06 --> 3276.84] Last 17 -[3276.84 --> 3277.26] Years -[3277.26 --> 3277.88] As she's -[3277.88 --> 3278.10] Had to -[3278.10 --> 3278.38] Deal with -[3278.38 --> 3278.64] Me -[3278.64 --> 3280.62] And I've -[3280.62 --> 3280.90] Learned -[3280.90 --> 3281.14] What it -[3281.14 --> 3281.34] Means -[3281.34 --> 3281.60] To be -[3281.60 --> 3282.14] Transformed -[3282.14 --> 3282.46] By the -[3282.46 --> 3282.76] Renewing -[3282.76 --> 3282.96] Of my -[3282.96 --> 3283.28] Mind -[3283.28 --> 3283.64] As I've -[3283.64 --> 3283.94] Had to -[3283.94 --> 3284.54] Realize -[3284.54 --> 3293.66] As we -[3293.66 --> 3293.78] As we -[3293.78 --> 3295.24] Come to -[3295.24 --> 3296.04] This -[3296.04 --> 3297.06] Text -[3297.06 --> 3298.32] And the -[3298.32 --> 3298.82] Reason why -[3298.82 --> 3299.12] I thought -[3299.12 --> 3299.32] It was -[3299.32 --> 3299.74] Fitting for -[3299.74 --> 3300.12] My wedding -[3300.12 --> 3300.56] All those -[3300.56 --> 3300.76] Years -[3300.76 --> 3301.30] Ago -[3301.30 --> 3304.56] I hope -[3304.56 --> 3305.08] We will -[3305.08 --> 3305.36] See -[3305.36 --> 3305.84] Together -[3305.84 --> 3308.12] That the -[3308.12 --> 3308.74] Only -[3308.74 --> 3309.30] Thing -[3309.30 --> 3309.88] That makes -[3309.88 --> 3310.22] Any -[3310.22 --> 3310.74] Sense -[3310.74 --> 3312.54] Is to -[3312.54 --> 3312.80] Give it -[3312.80 --> 3313.08] All to -[3313.08 --> 3313.34] God -[3313.34 --> 3315.42] That's -[3315.42 --> 3315.56] Our -[3315.56 --> 3315.96] Theme -[3315.96 --> 3317.02] In this -[3317.02 --> 3317.32] Text -[3317.32 --> 3318.16] The only -[3318.16 --> 3318.54] Thing -[3318.54 --> 3318.94] That makes -[3318.94 --> 3319.26] Any -[3319.26 --> 3319.72] Sense -[3319.72 --> 3320.76] Is to -[3320.76 --> 3321.00] Give it -[3321.00 --> 3321.26] All to -[3321.26 --> 3321.52] God -[3321.52 --> 3323.08] And so -[3323.08 --> 3323.36] To see -[3323.36 --> 3323.64] That -[3323.64 --> 3324.04] Let's -[3324.04 --> 3324.42] Jump -[3324.42 --> 3325.34] Into -[3325.34 --> 3325.76] This -[3325.76 --> 3326.42] Text -[3326.42 --> 3327.12] Together -[3327.12 --> 3328.58] Paul -[3328.58 --> 3329.12] Begins -[3329.12 --> 3329.78] Romans -[3329.78 --> 3330.16] 12 -[3330.16 --> 3330.54] With -[3330.54 --> 3330.74] The -[3330.74 --> 3331.10] Word -[3331.10 --> 3331.64] Therefore -[3331.64 --> 3333.52] I had -[3333.52 --> 3333.96] A professor -[3333.96 --> 3335.22] In seminary -[3335.22 --> 3335.60] Who would -[3335.60 --> 3335.92] Say -[3335.92 --> 3336.32] Over -[3336.32 --> 3336.86] And over -[3336.86 --> 3337.34] And over -[3337.34 --> 3337.84] Again -[3337.84 --> 3338.64] Whenever -[3338.64 --> 3339.38] You read -[3339.38 --> 3339.92] The word -[3339.92 --> 3340.44] Therefore -[3340.44 --> 3341.18] You should -[3341.18 --> 3341.86] Always ask -[3341.86 --> 3342.24] What's -[3342.24 --> 3342.44] It -[3342.44 --> 3342.72] There -[3342.72 --> 3343.06] For -[3343.06 --> 3344.98] What is -[3344.98 --> 3345.16] It -[3345.16 --> 3345.88] Referring -[3345.88 --> 3346.08] To -[3346.08 --> 3346.38] What is -[3346.38 --> 3346.52] It -[3346.52 --> 3346.90] Calling -[3346.90 --> 3347.16] Your -[3347.16 --> 3347.58] Mind -[3347.58 --> 3348.42] To -[3348.42 --> 3350.02] Paul -[3350.02 --> 3350.64] Starts -[3350.64 --> 3351.06] This -[3351.06 --> 3351.72] Chapter -[3351.72 --> 3352.20] With -[3352.20 --> 3352.40] The -[3352.40 --> 3352.62] Word -[3352.62 --> 3353.02] Therefore -[3353.02 --> 3353.88] Because -[3353.88 --> 3354.44] He -[3354.44 --> 3354.86] Wants -[3354.86 --> 3355.14] It -[3355.14 --> 3355.60] To -[3355.60 --> 3356.82] Logically -[3356.82 --> 3357.26] And -[3357.26 --> 3358.14] Consequently -[3358.14 --> 3359.10] Connect -[3359.10 --> 3359.48] To -[3359.48 --> 3360.30] Everything -[3360.30 --> 3360.66] That -[3360.66 --> 3360.82] Has -[3360.82 --> 3361.06] Come -[3361.06 --> 3361.46] Before -[3361.46 --> 3363.32] Right -[3363.32 --> 3363.66] Romans -[3363.66 --> 3364.00] 1 -[3364.00 --> 3364.42] Through -[3364.42 --> 3365.00] 11 -[3365.00 --> 3365.84] Is -[3365.84 --> 3366.66] Encapsulated -[3366.66 --> 3367.04] In -[3367.04 --> 3367.26] The -[3367.26 --> 3367.64] Word -[3367.64 --> 3368.28] Therefore -[3368.28 --> 3370.32] And so -[3370.32 --> 3370.50] In -[3370.50 --> 3370.76] Romans -[3370.76 --> 3371.04] 1 -[3371.04 --> 3371.30] Through -[3371.30 --> 3371.74] 11 -[3371.74 --> 3372.08] You can -[3372.08 --> 3372.26] See -[3372.26 --> 3372.40] It -[3372.40 --> 3372.74] Behind -[3372.74 --> 3373.00] Me -[3373.00 --> 3373.44] Right -[3373.44 --> 3373.64] We -[3373.64 --> 3373.82] Have -[3373.82 --> 3374.26] Learned -[3374.26 --> 3374.46] That -[3374.46 --> 3374.90] Because -[3374.90 --> 3375.10] Of -[3375.10 --> 3375.40] Human -[3375.40 --> 3375.92] Sin -[3375.92 --> 3376.42] The -[3376.42 --> 3376.74] Only -[3376.74 --> 3377.06] Way -[3377.06 --> 3377.28] To -[3377.28 --> 3377.44] Be -[3377.44 --> 3378.12] Justified -[3378.12 --> 3378.48] Is -[3378.48 --> 3378.68] By -[3378.68 --> 3379.08] Grace -[3379.08 --> 3379.54] Alone -[3379.54 --> 3379.82] Through -[3379.82 --> 3380.18] Faith -[3380.18 --> 3380.58] Alone -[3380.58 --> 3380.88] Because -[3380.88 --> 3381.08] Of -[3381.08 --> 3381.50] Christ -[3381.50 --> 3382.40] Alone -[3382.40 --> 3384.62] Right -[3384.62 --> 3384.76] In -[3384.76 --> 3385.02] Romans -[3385.02 --> 3385.38] 9 -[3385.38 --> 3385.68] Through -[3385.68 --> 3386.22] 11 -[3386.22 --> 3387.30] Paul -[3387.30 --> 3387.78] Asks -[3387.78 --> 3388.06] Given -[3388.06 --> 3388.38] That -[3388.38 --> 3388.90] Truth -[3388.90 --> 3389.56] Did -[3389.56 --> 3389.96] God's -[3389.96 --> 3390.16] Word -[3390.16 --> 3390.34] To -[3390.34 --> 3390.86] Israel -[3390.86 --> 3391.34] Fail -[3391.34 --> 3392.68] To -[3392.68 --> 3392.86] Which -[3392.86 --> 3393.12] Paul -[3393.12 --> 3393.36] Then -[3393.36 --> 3393.80] Answered -[3393.80 --> 3394.30] Emphatically -[3394.30 --> 3394.90] Certainly -[3394.90 --> 3395.44] Not -[3395.44 --> 3396.22] All -[3396.22 --> 3396.40] Of -[3396.40 --> 3396.68] This -[3396.68 --> 3397.44] Theology -[3397.44 --> 3398.00] That -[3398.00 --> 3398.28] Is -[3398.28 --> 3398.48] The -[3398.48 --> 3398.62] Only -[3398.62 --> 3398.76] Way -[3398.76 --> 3398.84] To -[3398.84 --> 3398.94] Be -[3398.94 --> 3399.34] Justified -[3399.34 --> 3399.52] Is -[3399.52 --> 3399.66] By -[3399.66 --> 3399.94] Grace -[3399.94 --> 3400.24] Alone -[3400.24 --> 3400.46] Through -[3400.46 --> 3400.78] Faith -[3400.78 --> 3401.08] Alone -[3401.08 --> 3401.30] In -[3401.30 --> 3401.60] Christ -[3401.60 --> 3401.94] Alone -[3401.94 --> 3402.62] All -[3402.62 --> 3402.64] All -[3402.64 --> 3402.78] Of -[3402.78 --> 3402.98] This -[3402.98 --> 3403.58] Theology -[3403.58 --> 3403.98] Is -[3403.98 --> 3404.34] True -[3404.34 --> 3404.94] Also -[3404.94 --> 3406.18] For -[3406.18 --> 3406.54] Them -[3406.54 --> 3406.96] For -[3406.96 --> 3407.42] Israel -[3407.42 --> 3407.74] As -[3407.74 --> 3407.94] Well -[3407.94 --> 3409.50] That's -[3409.50 --> 3409.70] The -[3409.70 --> 3410.24] Summary -[3410.24 --> 3410.60] Of -[3410.60 --> 3410.80] The -[3410.80 --> 3411.18] Word -[3411.18 --> 3411.80] Therefore -[3411.80 --> 3413.88] Or -[3413.88 --> 3414.22] We -[3414.22 --> 3414.46] Can -[3414.46 --> 3414.84] Look -[3414.84 --> 3415.14] At -[3415.14 --> 3415.54] Romans -[3415.54 --> 3416.04] 5 -[3416.04 --> 3416.74] Verses -[3416.74 --> 3416.92] 1 -[3416.92 --> 3417.02] And -[3417.02 --> 3417.20] 2 -[3417.20 --> 3417.78] Exactly -[3417.78 --> 3418.30] And -[3418.30 --> 3419.36] Read -[3419.36 --> 3419.64] The -[3419.64 --> 3419.86] Same -[3419.86 --> 3420.24] Thing -[3420.24 --> 3420.96] Therefore -[3420.96 --> 3421.64] Since -[3421.64 --> 3421.86] We -[3421.86 --> 3422.06] Have -[3422.06 --> 3422.26] Been -[3422.26 --> 3422.96] Justified -[3422.96 --> 3423.24] Through -[3423.24 --> 3423.74] Faith -[3423.74 --> 3424.24] There's -[3424.24 --> 3424.48] Faith -[3424.48 --> 3424.82] Alone -[3424.82 --> 3425.48] We -[3425.48 --> 3425.68] Have -[3425.68 --> 3426.00] Peace -[3426.00 --> 3426.22] With -[3426.22 --> 3426.56] God -[3426.56 --> 3426.82] Through -[3426.82 --> 3427.04] Our -[3427.04 --> 3427.36] Lord -[3427.36 --> 3427.70] Jesus -[3427.70 --> 3428.18] Christ -[3428.18 --> 3428.50] There's -[3428.50 --> 3428.82] Christ -[3428.82 --> 3429.28] Alone -[3429.28 --> 3429.70] Through -[3429.70 --> 3430.08] Whom -[3430.08 --> 3430.30] We -[3430.30 --> 3430.48] Have -[3430.48 --> 3430.76] Gained -[3430.76 --> 3431.24] Access -[3431.24 --> 3431.56] By -[3431.56 --> 3431.94] Faith -[3431.94 --> 3432.38] Into -[3432.38 --> 3432.80] This -[3432.80 --> 3433.16] Grace -[3433.16 --> 3433.52] There's -[3433.52 --> 3433.78] Grace -[3433.78 --> 3434.20] Alone -[3434.20 --> 3434.88] In -[3434.88 --> 3435.18] Which -[3435.18 --> 3435.40] We -[3435.40 --> 3435.64] Now -[3435.64 --> 3436.02] Stand -[3436.02 --> 3436.98] And -[3436.98 --> 3437.12] We -[3437.12 --> 3437.56] Boast -[3437.56 --> 3437.74] In -[3437.74 --> 3437.88] The -[3437.88 --> 3438.14] Hope -[3438.14 --> 3438.34] Of -[3438.34 --> 3438.48] The -[3438.48 --> 3438.90] Glory -[3438.90 --> 3439.22] Of -[3439.22 --> 3439.62] God -[3439.62 --> 3440.24] Which -[3440.24 --> 3440.34] Is -[3440.34 --> 3440.50] To -[3440.50 --> 3440.62] The -[3440.62 --> 3440.90] Glory -[3440.90 --> 3441.10] Of -[3441.10 --> 3441.40] God -[3441.40 --> 3442.20] Alone -[3442.20 --> 3444.22] And -[3444.22 --> 3444.62] Then -[3444.62 --> 3445.84] Just -[3445.84 --> 3446.14] To -[3446.14 --> 3446.42] Make -[3446.42 --> 3446.80] Sure -[3446.80 --> 3447.02] That -[3447.02 --> 3447.16] We -[3447.16 --> 3447.44] Get -[3447.44 --> 3447.62] It -[3447.62 --> 3447.80] He -[3447.80 --> 3448.64] Reiterates -[3448.64 --> 3449.28] Paul -[3449.28 --> 3449.68] Does -[3449.68 --> 3449.84] In -[3449.84 --> 3450.00] Our -[3450.00 --> 3450.32] Text -[3450.32 --> 3450.50] He -[3450.50 --> 3450.70] Says -[3450.70 --> 3451.14] Therefore -[3451.14 --> 3451.60] I -[3451.60 --> 3452.08] Urge -[3452.08 --> 3452.34] You -[3452.34 --> 3452.70] Brothers -[3452.70 --> 3453.08] And -[3453.08 --> 3453.52] Sisters -[3453.52 --> 3454.44] In -[3454.44 --> 3454.80] View -[3454.80 --> 3455.40] Of -[3455.40 --> 3456.00] God's -[3456.00 --> 3456.72] Mercy -[3456.72 --> 3458.70] That -[3458.70 --> 3459.38] Line -[3459.38 --> 3459.64] In -[3459.64 --> 3459.92] View -[3459.92 --> 3460.16] Of -[3460.16 --> 3460.52] God's -[3460.52 --> 3460.84] Mercy -[3460.84 --> 3461.40] Calls -[3461.40 --> 3461.64] Back -[3461.64 --> 3461.92] All -[3461.92 --> 3462.04] Of -[3462.04 --> 3462.22] Those -[3462.22 --> 3462.50] Other -[3462.50 --> 3462.90] Things -[3462.90 --> 3463.40] And -[3463.40 --> 3464.02] Specifically -[3464.02 --> 3465.02] It's -[3465.02 --> 3465.58] Repeating -[3465.58 --> 3466.16] A theme -[3466.16 --> 3466.34] And -[3466.34 --> 3466.72] A word -[3466.72 --> 3466.96] That -[3466.96 --> 3467.36] Shows -[3467.36 --> 3467.64] Up -[3467.64 --> 3467.98] Over -[3467.98 --> 3468.20] And -[3468.20 --> 3468.38] Over -[3468.38 --> 3468.56] And -[3468.56 --> 3468.76] Over -[3468.76 --> 3469.12] Again -[3469.12 --> 3469.38] In -[3469.38 --> 3469.68] Chapters -[3469.68 --> 3469.92] 9 -[3469.92 --> 3470.08] Through -[3470.08 --> 3470.34] 11 -[3470.34 --> 3471.78] The -[3471.78 --> 3472.16] Theme -[3472.16 --> 3472.36] Of -[3472.36 --> 3472.72] God's -[3472.72 --> 3473.08] Mercy -[3473.08 --> 3473.36] Is -[3473.36 --> 3474.20] Highlighted -[3474.20 --> 3474.40] As -[3474.40 --> 3474.54] The -[3474.54 --> 3474.74] Sort -[3474.74 --> 3474.92] Of -[3474.92 --> 3476.14] Corresponding -[3476.14 --> 3476.74] Analog -[3476.74 --> 3476.92] Or -[3476.92 --> 3477.08] The -[3477.08 --> 3477.24] The -[3477.24 --> 3477.60] Lived -[3477.60 --> 3478.28] Expression -[3478.28 --> 3478.72] Of -[3478.72 --> 3478.94] What -[3478.94 --> 3479.32] Came -[3479.32 --> 3480.08] Before -[3480.08 --> 3481.26] In -[3481.26 --> 3481.42] That -[3481.42 --> 3481.84] Section -[3481.84 --> 3482.34] God -[3482.34 --> 3482.66] Says -[3482.66 --> 3482.98] Things -[3482.98 --> 3483.38] Like -[3483.38 --> 3483.68] I -[3483.68 --> 3483.88] Will -[3483.88 --> 3484.12] Have -[3484.12 --> 3484.52] Mercy -[3484.52 --> 3484.86] On -[3484.86 --> 3485.08] Whom -[3485.08 --> 3485.28] I -[3485.28 --> 3485.50] Have -[3485.50 --> 3485.90] Mercy -[3485.90 --> 3486.88] He -[3486.88 --> 3487.10] Says -[3487.10 --> 3487.22] It -[3487.22 --> 3487.36] Does -[3487.36 --> 3487.56] Not -[3487.56 --> 3487.86] Therefore -[3487.86 --> 3488.34] Depend -[3488.34 --> 3488.56] On -[3488.56 --> 3488.86] Human -[3488.86 --> 3489.36] Desire -[3489.36 --> 3489.62] Or -[3489.62 --> 3490.02] Effort -[3490.02 --> 3490.26] But -[3490.26 --> 3490.48] On -[3490.48 --> 3490.84] God's -[3490.84 --> 3491.32] Mercy -[3491.32 --> 3492.12] And -[3492.12 --> 3492.28] Then -[3492.28 --> 3492.44] He -[3492.44 --> 3492.82] Finishes -[3492.82 --> 3493.12] That -[3493.12 --> 3493.48] Section -[3493.48 --> 3493.90] Saying -[3493.90 --> 3494.26] Just -[3494.26 --> 3494.60] As -[3494.60 --> 3494.86] You -[3494.86 --> 3495.16] Have -[3495.16 --> 3495.60] Received -[3495.60 --> 3495.98] Mercy -[3495.98 --> 3496.30] They -[3496.30 --> 3496.60] Too -[3496.60 --> 3496.84] May -[3496.84 --> 3497.10] Now -[3497.10 --> 3497.50] Receive -[3497.50 --> 3497.86] Mercy -[3497.86 --> 3498.14] As -[3498.14 --> 3498.26] A -[3498.26 --> 3498.58] Result -[3498.58 --> 3498.74] Of -[3498.74 --> 3499.10] God's -[3499.10 --> 3499.42] Mercy -[3499.42 --> 3499.98] To -[3499.98 --> 3500.24] You -[3500.24 --> 3501.66] Point -[3501.66 --> 3502.08] Is -[3502.08 --> 3503.26] That -[3503.26 --> 3503.48] Little -[3507.08 --> 3507.28] Only -[3507.28 --> 3507.58] Three -[3507.58 --> 3507.94] Letters -[3507.94 --> 3508.22] In -[3508.22 --> 3508.48] Greek -[3508.48 --> 3508.96] That -[3508.96 --> 3509.24] Little -[3509.24 --> 3509.60] Word -[3509.60 --> 3510.22] Therefore -[3510.22 --> 3510.92] Is -[3510.92 --> 3511.44] There -[3511.44 --> 3512.00] For -[3512.00 --> 3512.48] Us -[3512.48 --> 3512.74] To -[3512.74 --> 3513.24] See -[3513.24 --> 3513.66] The -[3513.66 --> 3514.46] Theology -[3514.46 --> 3514.84] Of -[3514.84 --> 3515.32] Chapters -[3515.32 --> 3515.74] 1 -[3515.74 --> 3516.10] Through -[3516.10 --> 3516.86] 11 -[3516.86 --> 3517.52] That -[3517.52 --> 3518.04] Now -[3518.04 --> 3518.40] Will -[3518.40 --> 3518.80] Begin -[3518.80 --> 3519.12] To -[3519.12 --> 3520.16] Undergird -[3520.16 --> 3520.54] The -[3520.54 --> 3521.30] Practices -[3521.30 --> 3521.72] And -[3521.72 --> 3521.86] The -[3521.86 --> 3522.10] Way -[3522.10 --> 3522.26] Of -[3522.26 --> 3522.72] Being -[3522.72 --> 3522.98] In -[3522.98 --> 3523.10] The -[3523.10 --> 3523.48] World -[3523.48 --> 3524.10] That -[3524.10 --> 3524.50] Paul -[3524.50 --> 3524.78] Is -[3524.78 --> 3525.18] Calling -[3525.18 --> 3525.42] The -[3525.42 --> 3525.74] Church -[3525.74 --> 3526.32] To -[3526.32 --> 3527.96] And -[3527.96 --> 3528.16] It's -[3528.16 --> 3528.44] Really -[3528.44 --> 3528.84] Only -[3528.84 --> 3529.26] This -[3529.26 --> 3530.86] Foundation -[3530.86 --> 3531.56] This -[3531.56 --> 3532.08] High -[3532.08 --> 3532.42] View -[3532.42 --> 3532.68] Of -[3532.68 --> 3533.06] God's -[3533.06 --> 3533.76] Sovereignty -[3533.76 --> 3534.70] That -[3534.70 --> 3534.88] That's -[3534.88 --> 3535.04] The -[3535.04 --> 3535.38] Only -[3535.38 --> 3536.06] Foundation -[3536.06 --> 3537.44] That -[3537.44 --> 3537.88] Gives -[3537.88 --> 3538.34] For -[3538.34 --> 3539.04] Us -[3539.04 --> 3540.56] And -[3540.56 --> 3540.76] That -[3540.76 --> 3542.68] Allows -[3542.68 --> 3542.96] For -[3542.96 --> 3543.46] Us -[3543.46 --> 3543.92] To -[3543.92 --> 3544.48] Live -[3544.48 --> 3544.84] In -[3544.84 --> 3545.08] The -[3545.08 --> 3545.46] Way -[3545.46 --> 3545.94] That -[3545.94 --> 3546.78] God -[3546.78 --> 3547.44] Is -[3547.44 --> 3547.82] Calling -[3547.82 --> 3549.56] It's -[3549.56 --> 3549.82] Only -[3549.82 --> 3550.04] The -[3550.04 --> 3550.44] Gospel -[3550.44 --> 3550.88] Truth -[3550.88 --> 3551.16] That -[3551.16 --> 3551.84] Makes -[3551.84 --> 3552.08] The -[3552.08 --> 3552.54] Kind -[3552.54 --> 3552.86] Of -[3552.86 --> 3553.34] Calling -[3553.34 --> 3553.60] That -[3553.60 --> 3553.82] God -[3553.82 --> 3554.14] Puts -[3554.14 --> 3554.34] On -[3554.34 --> 3554.58] Our -[3554.58 --> 3555.18] Lives -[3555.18 --> 3556.58] Reasonable -[3556.58 --> 3557.54] And -[3557.54 --> 3558.16] Possible -[3558.16 --> 3559.58] As -[3559.58 --> 3560.02] Christians -[3560.02 --> 3564.12] Just -[3564.12 --> 3564.48] As -[3564.48 --> 3565.26] Jesus -[3565.26 --> 3565.70] Gave -[3565.70 --> 3566.06] Himself -[3566.06 --> 3566.48] As -[3566.48 --> 3566.62] A -[3566.62 --> 3567.18] Sacrifice -[3567.18 --> 3567.40] For -[3567.40 --> 3567.42] For -[3567.42 --> 3567.70] For -[3567.70 --> 3568.46] For -[3568.46 --> 3568.80] Sins -[3568.80 --> 3569.56] Paul -[3569.56 --> 3569.94] Now -[3569.94 --> 3570.44] Tells -[3570.44 --> 3570.96] Believers -[3570.96 --> 3571.60] To -[3571.60 --> 3572.12] Offer -[3572.12 --> 3572.42] Your -[3572.42 --> 3572.86] Bodies -[3572.86 --> 3573.30] As -[3573.30 --> 3573.64] A -[3573.64 --> 3574.08] Living -[3574.08 --> 3575.40] Sacrifice -[3575.40 --> 3576.40] Holy -[3576.40 --> 3576.92] And -[3576.92 --> 3577.46] Pleasing -[3577.46 --> 3578.10] To -[3578.10 --> 3578.42] God -[3578.42 --> 3581.06] Now -[3581.06 --> 3583.34] A -[3583.34 --> 3583.60] Living -[3583.60 --> 3584.44] Sacrifice -[3584.44 --> 3585.24] To -[3585.24 --> 3585.60] Our -[3585.60 --> 3586.16] Modern -[3586.16 --> 3587.16] Minds -[3587.16 --> 3587.40] Might -[3587.40 --> 3587.76] Seem -[3587.76 --> 3588.60] Strange -[3588.60 --> 3588.80] And -[3588.80 --> 3589.58] The -[3589.58 --> 3590.82] Reality -[3590.82 --> 3591.12] Though -[3591.12 --> 3591.36] For -[3591.36 --> 3591.84] Most -[3591.84 --> 3592.00] Of -[3592.00 --> 3592.14] Us -[3592.14 --> 3592.28] Here -[3592.28 --> 3592.48] This -[3592.48 --> 3592.76] Morning -[3592.76 --> 3593.20] Is -[3593.20 --> 3593.30] That -[3593.30 --> 3593.38] You -[3593.38 --> 3593.56] Don't -[3593.56 --> 3593.80] Have -[3593.80 --> 3593.94] To -[3593.94 --> 3594.18] Be -[3594.18 --> 3595.08] Familiar -[3595.08 --> 3595.32] With -[3595.32 --> 3595.68] Lots -[3595.68 --> 3595.84] Of -[3595.84 --> 3596.04] Old -[3596.04 --> 3596.42] Testament -[3596.42 --> 3597.00] Theology -[3597.00 --> 3597.30] Or -[3597.30 --> 3597.40] You -[3597.40 --> 3597.56] Don't -[3597.56 --> 3597.80] Have -[3597.80 --> 3597.96] To -[3597.96 --> 3598.28] Know -[3598.28 --> 3598.94] All -[3598.94 --> 3599.14] The -[3599.14 --> 3599.90] Pagan -[3599.90 --> 3600.46] Cultic -[3600.46 --> 3601.10] Practices -[3601.10 --> 3601.34] That -[3601.34 --> 3601.78] Existed -[3601.78 --> 3602.02] At -[3602.02 --> 3602.12] The -[3602.12 --> 3602.46] Time -[3602.46 --> 3602.98] To -[3602.98 --> 3603.28] Know -[3603.28 --> 3603.74] That -[3603.74 --> 3604.94] Sacrifices -[3604.94 --> 3605.18] Are -[3605.18 --> 3605.70] Usually -[3605.70 --> 3607.30] Dead -[3607.30 --> 3607.74] Dead -[3607.74 --> 3610.06] Or -[3610.06 --> 3610.28] They -[3610.28 --> 3610.32] They -[3610.32 --> 3610.34] They -[3610.34 --> 3610.44] Are -[3610.44 --> 3611.34] Killed -[3611.34 --> 3611.58] Or -[3611.58 --> 3612.12] Consumed -[3612.12 --> 3612.36] As -[3612.36 --> 3612.66] Part -[3612.66 --> 3612.82] Of -[3612.82 --> 3612.98] The -[3612.98 --> 3613.28] Act -[3613.28 --> 3613.50] Of -[3613.50 --> 3614.36] Sacrificing -[3614.36 --> 3616.78] But -[3616.78 --> 3617.00] Paul -[3617.00 --> 3617.32] Says -[3617.32 --> 3617.72] Here -[3617.72 --> 3617.94] That -[3617.94 --> 3618.06] We -[3618.06 --> 3618.18] Are -[3618.18 --> 3618.34] To -[3618.34 --> 3618.84] Offer -[3618.84 --> 3619.08] Our -[3619.08 --> 3619.56] Bodies -[3619.56 --> 3619.84] As -[3619.84 --> 3620.64] Living -[3620.64 --> 3622.12] Sacrifices -[3622.12 --> 3624.08] A -[3624.08 --> 3624.60] Living -[3624.60 --> 3625.50] Sacrifice -[3625.50 --> 3626.50] Means -[3626.50 --> 3627.72] All -[3627.72 --> 3627.90] The -[3627.90 --> 3628.26] Time -[3628.26 --> 3629.18] Every -[3629.18 --> 3629.62] Day -[3629.62 --> 3630.26] In -[3630.26 --> 3630.62] Every -[3630.62 --> 3630.92] Way -[3630.92 --> 3632.72] A -[3632.72 --> 3633.12] Dead -[3633.12 --> 3633.74] Sacrifice -[3633.74 --> 3634.02] Is -[3634.02 --> 3634.28] Done -[3634.28 --> 3634.56] With -[3634.56 --> 3634.98] It's -[3634.98 --> 3635.64] Finished -[3635.64 --> 3636.32] You -[3636.32 --> 3636.56] Don't -[3636.56 --> 3636.82] Need -[3636.82 --> 3637.10] To -[3637.10 --> 3637.64] Do -[3637.64 --> 3637.76] It -[3637.76 --> 3638.12] Again -[3638.12 --> 3638.72] Until -[3638.72 --> 3639.06] You -[3639.06 --> 3639.22] Need -[3639.22 --> 3639.34] To -[3639.34 --> 3639.44] Do -[3639.44 --> 3639.54] It -[3639.54 --> 3639.84] Again -[3639.84 --> 3641.74] Living -[3641.74 --> 3642.84] Sacrifices -[3642.84 --> 3643.18] Are -[3643.18 --> 3643.54] Never -[3643.54 --> 3644.06] Ending -[3644.06 --> 3644.68] Never -[3644.68 --> 3645.28] Stopping -[3645.28 --> 3646.52] A -[3646.52 --> 3646.76] Living -[3646.76 --> 3647.40] Sacrifice -[3647.40 --> 3647.76] Doesn't -[3647.76 --> 3647.92] Get -[3647.92 --> 3648.08] The -[3648.08 --> 3648.78] Reprieve -[3648.78 --> 3649.02] Of -[3649.02 --> 3649.76] Dying -[3649.76 --> 3649.94] And -[3649.94 --> 3650.06] Of -[3650.06 --> 3650.22] Being -[3650.22 --> 3650.72] Consumed -[3650.72 --> 3652.46] Living -[3652.46 --> 3653.00] Sacrifice -[3653.00 --> 3653.28] Is -[3653.28 --> 3654.12] Saying -[3654.12 --> 3654.62] Every -[3654.62 --> 3655.04] Moment -[3655.04 --> 3655.28] Of -[3655.28 --> 3655.66] Every -[3655.66 --> 3656.10] Day -[3656.10 --> 3656.56] What -[3656.56 --> 3656.86] Jesus -[3656.86 --> 3657.18] Prayed -[3657.18 --> 3657.26] In -[3657.26 --> 3657.36] The -[3657.36 --> 3657.56] Garden -[3657.56 --> 3657.98] Not -[3657.98 --> 3658.68] My -[3658.68 --> 3659.12] Will -[3659.12 --> 3659.66] But -[3659.66 --> 3660.06] Yours -[3660.06 --> 3660.50] Be -[3660.50 --> 3660.74] Done -[3660.74 --> 3662.44] A -[3662.44 --> 3662.66] Living -[3662.66 --> 3663.14] Sacrifice -[3663.14 --> 3663.52] Says -[3663.52 --> 3663.70] In -[3663.70 --> 3663.98] Every -[3663.98 --> 3664.66] Circumstance -[3664.66 --> 3665.02] I -[3665.02 --> 3665.18] Am -[3665.18 --> 3665.42] Not -[3665.42 --> 3665.64] My -[3665.64 --> 3665.94] Own -[3665.94 --> 3666.10] But -[3666.10 --> 3666.22] I -[3666.22 --> 3666.62] Belong -[3666.62 --> 3666.94] Body -[3666.94 --> 3667.14] And -[3667.14 --> 3667.42] Soul -[3667.42 --> 3667.60] In -[3667.60 --> 3667.92] Life -[3667.92 --> 3668.08] And -[3668.08 --> 3668.20] In -[3668.20 --> 3668.36] Death -[3668.36 --> 3668.54] To -[3668.54 --> 3668.68] My -[3668.68 --> 3669.06] Faithful -[3669.06 --> 3669.36] Savior -[3669.36 --> 3669.66] Jesus -[3669.66 --> 3670.08] Christ -[3670.08 --> 3671.90] A -[3671.90 --> 3672.24] Living -[3672.24 --> 3672.94] Sacrifice -[3672.94 --> 3673.66] Demands -[3673.66 --> 3673.90] That -[3673.90 --> 3674.10] You -[3674.10 --> 3674.38] Let -[3674.38 --> 3674.68] Go -[3674.68 --> 3675.00] Of -[3675.00 --> 3675.24] Your -[3675.24 --> 3675.70] Own -[3675.70 --> 3679.52] Everything -[3679.52 --> 3682.46] Everything -[3682.46 --> 3686.84] Because -[3686.84 --> 3688.48] Everything -[3688.48 --> 3689.96] Is -[3689.96 --> 3690.26] From -[3690.26 --> 3690.60] Him -[3690.60 --> 3691.40] Through -[3691.40 --> 3691.74] Him -[3691.74 --> 3692.62] And -[3692.62 --> 3692.92] For -[3692.92 --> 3693.18] Him -[3693.18 --> 3696.26] And -[3696.26 --> 3696.44] Let -[3696.44 --> 3696.46] Let -[3696.46 --> 3696.48] Let -[3696.48 --> 3696.50] Let -[3696.50 --> 3696.60] Me -[3696.60 --> 3696.86] Be -[3696.86 --> 3697.86] Abundantly -[3697.86 --> 3698.92] Clear -[3698.92 --> 3701.76] In -[3701.76 --> 3702.30] Our -[3702.30 --> 3703.26] Expressive -[3703.26 --> 3704.20] Individualist -[3704.20 --> 3704.84] Culture -[3704.84 --> 3705.34] In -[3705.34 --> 3705.86] Our -[3705.86 --> 3707.08] Modern -[3707.08 --> 3707.56] Cult -[3707.56 --> 3707.80] Of -[3707.80 --> 3708.62] Authenticity -[3708.62 --> 3709.10] Where -[3709.10 --> 3709.44] All -[3709.44 --> 3709.64] We -[3709.64 --> 3709.78] Are -[3709.78 --> 3710.08] Told -[3710.08 --> 3710.42] Over -[3710.42 --> 3710.62] And -[3710.62 --> 3710.86] Over -[3710.86 --> 3711.04] And -[3711.04 --> 3711.22] Over -[3711.22 --> 3711.42] Where -[3711.42 --> 3711.52] The -[3711.52 --> 3711.82] Message -[3711.82 --> 3712.22] Every -[3712.22 --> 3712.54] Moment -[3712.54 --> 3712.74] Of -[3712.74 --> 3713.02] Every -[3713.02 --> 3713.32] Day -[3713.32 --> 3713.88] Seems -[3713.88 --> 3714.06] To -[3714.06 --> 3714.28] Be -[3714.28 --> 3714.80] Be -[3714.80 --> 3715.10] Your -[3715.10 --> 3715.38] True -[3715.38 --> 3715.82] Self -[3715.82 --> 3717.32] In -[3717.32 --> 3717.42] A -[3717.42 --> 3717.74] World -[3717.74 --> 3717.96] That -[3717.96 --> 3718.30] Tells -[3718.30 --> 3718.42] You -[3718.42 --> 3718.60] To -[3718.60 --> 3719.02] Follow -[3719.02 --> 3719.34] Your -[3719.34 --> 3719.84] Joy -[3719.84 --> 3720.90] Right -[3720.90 --> 3721.06] Where -[3721.06 --> 3721.20] The -[3721.20 --> 3723.30] French -[3723.30 --> 3723.88] Anarchist -[3723.88 --> 3724.24] Anthem -[3724.24 --> 3724.40] Of -[3724.40 --> 3724.58] No -[3724.58 --> 3724.90] Gods -[3724.90 --> 3725.08] No -[3725.08 --> 3725.46] Masters -[3725.46 --> 3725.94] Becomes -[3725.94 --> 3726.52] Normal -[3726.52 --> 3727.88] Right -[3727.88 --> 3728.22] In -[3728.22 --> 3728.80] A -[3728.80 --> 3729.14] Time -[3729.14 --> 3729.32] And -[3729.32 --> 3729.62] Place -[3729.62 --> 3729.86] Where -[3729.86 --> 3730.02] We -[3730.02 --> 3730.16] Are -[3730.16 --> 3730.54] Told -[3730.54 --> 3730.76] That -[3730.76 --> 3730.96] What -[3730.96 --> 3731.12] You -[3731.12 --> 3731.70] Feel -[3731.70 --> 3732.62] Defines -[3732.62 --> 3733.22] Reality -[3733.22 --> 3733.64] And -[3733.64 --> 3733.76] Then -[3733.76 --> 3733.88] The -[3733.88 --> 3734.10] Rest -[3734.10 --> 3734.22] Of -[3734.22 --> 3734.34] Us -[3734.34 --> 3734.50] Just -[3734.50 --> 3734.64] Have -[3734.64 --> 3734.74] To -[3734.74 --> 3735.12] Accept -[3735.12 --> 3735.36] It -[3735.36 --> 3736.98] When -[3736.98 --> 3737.34] This -[3737.34 --> 3737.52] Is -[3737.52 --> 3737.70] The -[3737.70 --> 3738.04] World -[3738.04 --> 3738.26] We -[3738.26 --> 3738.56] Live -[3738.56 --> 3738.88] In -[3738.88 --> 3739.40] The -[3739.40 --> 3739.98] Idea -[3739.98 --> 3740.34] Of -[3740.34 --> 3740.62] Being -[3740.62 --> 3740.94] A -[3740.94 --> 3741.26] Living -[3741.26 --> 3742.22] Sacrifice -[3742.22 --> 3742.94] Is -[3742.94 --> 3743.74] Completely -[3743.74 --> 3744.78] Antithetical -[3744.78 --> 3745.78] Opposite -[3745.78 --> 3746.36] To -[3746.36 --> 3746.82] All -[3746.82 --> 3746.96] Of -[3746.96 --> 3747.24] That -[3747.24 --> 3749.52] The -[3749.52 --> 3749.92] Christian -[3749.92 --> 3750.42] Life -[3750.42 --> 3751.06] Because -[3751.06 --> 3751.46] Of -[3751.46 --> 3751.84] God's -[3751.84 --> 3752.30] Mercy -[3752.30 --> 3753.08] Says -[3753.08 --> 3753.88] God -[3753.88 --> 3754.40] You -[3754.40 --> 3754.62] Know -[3754.62 --> 3755.06] Best -[3755.06 --> 3756.50] I -[3756.50 --> 3756.82] Trust -[3756.82 --> 3757.12] You -[3757.12 --> 3759.60] I -[3759.60 --> 3759.76] Said -[3759.76 --> 3759.86] It -[3759.86 --> 3760.18] Before -[3760.18 --> 3761.10] But -[3761.10 --> 3761.84] Part -[3761.84 --> 3761.98] Of -[3761.98 --> 3762.10] What -[3762.10 --> 3762.20] It -[3762.20 --> 3762.44] Means -[3762.44 --> 3762.60] To -[3762.60 --> 3762.74] Be -[3762.74 --> 3763.12] Christian -[3763.12 --> 3763.52] Is -[3763.52 --> 3763.70] To -[3763.70 --> 3764.10] Trust -[3764.10 --> 3764.58] God -[3764.58 --> 3764.84] More -[3764.84 --> 3765.04] Than -[3765.04 --> 3765.16] You -[3765.16 --> 3765.42] Trust -[3765.42 --> 3765.88] Yourself -[3765.88 --> 3767.84] Practically -[3767.84 --> 3768.32] Then -[3768.32 --> 3768.88] That -[3768.88 --> 3769.38] Means -[3769.38 --> 3769.68] You -[3769.68 --> 3770.02] Put -[3770.02 --> 3770.30] To -[3770.30 --> 3770.72] Death -[3770.72 --> 3771.04] You -[3771.04 --> 3772.04] Sacrifice -[3772.04 --> 3772.54] The -[3772.54 --> 3773.02] Idea -[3773.02 --> 3773.54] That -[3773.54 --> 3773.70] You -[3773.70 --> 3773.84] Are -[3773.84 --> 3774.00] Your -[3774.00 --> 3774.20] Own -[3774.20 --> 3774.58] Person -[3774.58 --> 3775.76] You -[3775.76 --> 3775.98] Put -[3775.98 --> 3776.14] To -[3776.14 --> 3776.36] Death -[3776.36 --> 3776.60] The -[3776.60 --> 3776.90] Idea -[3776.90 --> 3777.08] That -[3777.08 --> 3777.20] You -[3777.20 --> 3777.58] Belong -[3777.58 --> 3777.76] To -[3777.76 --> 3778.30] Yourself -[3778.30 --> 3779.32] You -[3779.32 --> 3780.00] Sacrifice -[3780.00 --> 3780.22] The -[3780.22 --> 3780.52] Idea -[3780.52 --> 3780.74] That -[3780.74 --> 3781.06] You -[3781.06 --> 3781.40] Know -[3781.40 --> 3781.94] Best -[3781.94 --> 3782.74] Instead -[3782.74 --> 3783.68] You -[3783.68 --> 3784.40] Live -[3784.40 --> 3784.72] As -[3784.72 --> 3785.36] God's -[3785.36 --> 3785.88] Special -[3785.88 --> 3786.52] Possession -[3786.52 --> 3786.98] Instead -[3786.98 --> 3787.42] You -[3787.42 --> 3787.78] Live -[3787.78 --> 3788.00] Like -[3788.00 --> 3788.14] You -[3788.14 --> 3788.62] Belong -[3788.62 --> 3788.94] Body -[3788.94 --> 3789.14] And -[3789.14 --> 3789.38] Soul -[3789.38 --> 3789.58] To -[3789.58 --> 3789.74] Your -[3789.74 --> 3790.14] Faithful -[3790.14 --> 3790.92] Savior -[3790.92 --> 3792.82] Practically -[3792.82 --> 3793.26] Speaking -[3793.26 --> 3794.54] It -[3794.54 --> 3794.80] Means -[3794.80 --> 3795.00] You -[3795.00 --> 3795.24] Put -[3795.24 --> 3795.46] To -[3795.46 --> 3795.78] Death -[3795.78 --> 3796.34] The -[3796.34 --> 3796.70] Idea -[3796.70 --> 3796.94] That -[3796.94 --> 3797.14] You -[3797.14 --> 3797.42] Know -[3797.42 --> 3798.26] Anything -[3798.26 --> 3799.30] Better -[3799.30 --> 3799.62] Than -[3799.62 --> 3799.94] God -[3799.94 --> 3800.28] Knows -[3800.28 --> 3800.84] Everything -[3800.84 --> 3803.58] You -[3803.58 --> 3804.32] Sacrifice -[3804.32 --> 3805.26] Your -[3805.26 --> 3805.74] Truth -[3805.74 --> 3806.22] Whatever -[3806.22 --> 3806.46] That -[3806.46 --> 3806.78] Is -[3806.78 --> 3807.58] For -[3807.58 --> 3807.94] God's -[3807.94 --> 3808.22] Truth -[3808.22 --> 3809.24] You -[3809.24 --> 3809.74] Sacrifice -[3809.74 --> 3809.96] The -[3809.96 --> 3810.28] Idea -[3810.28 --> 3810.46] That -[3810.46 --> 3810.60] Your -[3810.60 --> 3810.96] Joy -[3810.96 --> 3811.22] Is -[3811.22 --> 3811.40] What -[3811.40 --> 3811.54] You -[3811.54 --> 3811.90] Follow -[3811.90 --> 3812.18] And -[3812.18 --> 3812.54] Instead -[3812.54 --> 3813.24] You -[3813.24 --> 3813.46] Look -[3813.46 --> 3813.64] To -[3813.64 --> 3814.10] Jesus -[3814.10 --> 3814.70] And -[3814.70 --> 3814.80] You -[3814.80 --> 3815.00] Take -[3815.00 --> 3815.14] Your -[3815.14 --> 3815.32] Cue -[3815.32 --> 3815.54] From -[3815.54 --> 3815.94] Him -[3815.94 --> 3816.32] And -[3816.32 --> 3816.42] We -[3816.42 --> 3816.66] Read -[3816.66 --> 3817.08] Jesus -[3817.08 --> 3817.64] Who -[3817.64 --> 3817.94] For -[3817.94 --> 3818.12] The -[3818.12 --> 3818.48] Joy -[3818.48 --> 3818.92] Set -[3818.92 --> 3819.48] Before -[3819.48 --> 3819.90] Him -[3819.90 --> 3820.76] Endured -[3820.76 --> 3821.02] The -[3821.02 --> 3821.54] Cross -[3821.54 --> 3822.54] Scorning -[3822.54 --> 3822.74] Its -[3822.74 --> 3823.06] Shame -[3823.06 --> 3825.26] Instead -[3825.26 --> 3826.06] Christians -[3826.06 --> 3826.70] Rejoice -[3826.70 --> 3826.96] In -[3826.96 --> 3827.48] Suffering -[3827.48 --> 3827.70] As -[3827.70 --> 3827.84] A -[3827.84 --> 3828.16] Means -[3828.16 --> 3828.34] Of -[3828.34 --> 3829.18] Participating -[3829.18 --> 3829.60] In -[3829.60 --> 3829.74] The -[3829.74 --> 3830.16] Sufferings -[3830.16 --> 3830.30] Of -[3830.30 --> 3830.66] Christ -[3830.66 --> 3832.76] And -[3832.76 --> 3832.88] In -[3832.88 --> 3833.02] A -[3833.02 --> 3833.40] Culture -[3833.40 --> 3833.72] And -[3833.72 --> 3834.16] Time -[3834.16 --> 3834.34] That -[3834.34 --> 3834.46] Is -[3834.46 --> 3834.60] So -[3834.60 --> 3835.38] Saturated -[3835.38 --> 3835.58] With -[3835.58 --> 3835.74] These -[3835.74 --> 3836.28] Pressures -[3836.28 --> 3837.00] It -[3837.00 --> 3837.70] Feels -[3837.70 --> 3838.28] Like -[3838.28 --> 3838.96] Death -[3838.96 --> 3839.82] To -[3839.82 --> 3840.02] Put -[3840.02 --> 3840.18] Your -[3840.18 --> 3840.64] Sexual -[3840.64 --> 3841.20] Desires -[3841.20 --> 3841.78] Off -[3841.78 --> 3842.50] Because -[3842.50 --> 3842.90] God's -[3842.90 --> 3843.10] Word -[3843.10 --> 3843.36] Says -[3843.36 --> 3843.60] Something -[3843.60 --> 3844.00] Different -[3844.00 --> 3846.62] It -[3846.62 --> 3847.06] Feels -[3847.06 --> 3847.38] Like -[3847.38 --> 3847.82] Death -[3847.82 --> 3848.08] To -[3848.08 --> 3848.36] Give -[3848.36 --> 3848.58] Up -[3848.58 --> 3848.78] Your -[3848.78 --> 3849.00] Right -[3849.00 --> 3849.20] To -[3849.20 --> 3849.82] Choose -[3849.82 --> 3850.26] Your -[3850.26 --> 3851.08] Individualism -[3851.08 --> 3851.24] And -[3851.24 --> 3851.40] Your -[3851.40 --> 3851.88] Autonomy -[3851.88 --> 3852.42] And -[3852.42 --> 3852.58] To -[3852.58 --> 3852.76] Say -[3852.76 --> 3853.18] God -[3853.18 --> 3853.70] You -[3853.70 --> 3854.06] Know -[3854.06 --> 3854.56] And -[3854.56 --> 3854.82] You -[3854.82 --> 3855.00] Know -[3855.00 --> 3855.26] Better -[3855.26 --> 3856.88] I -[3856.88 --> 3857.02] Don't -[3857.02 --> 3857.28] Like -[3857.28 --> 3857.44] It -[3857.44 --> 3858.38] I -[3858.38 --> 3858.50] Don't -[3858.50 --> 3858.66] Even -[3858.66 --> 3859.06] Feel -[3859.06 --> 3859.28] It -[3859.28 --> 3860.26] But -[3860.26 --> 3860.42] You -[3860.42 --> 3860.72] Said -[3860.72 --> 3861.00] It -[3861.00 --> 3862.00] And -[3862.00 --> 3862.16] So -[3862.16 --> 3862.32] I -[3862.32 --> 3862.42] Will -[3862.42 --> 3862.56] Do -[3862.56 --> 3863.74] It -[3863.74 --> 3865.96] That's -[3865.96 --> 3867.16] Living -[3867.16 --> 3868.68] Sacrifice -[3868.68 --> 3870.98] Or -[3870.98 --> 3871.12] As -[3871.12 --> 3871.32] Mike -[3871.32 --> 3871.54] Put -[3871.54 --> 3871.68] It -[3871.68 --> 3872.76] That's -[3872.76 --> 3872.86] What -[3872.86 --> 3872.94] It -[3872.94 --> 3873.10] Means -[3873.10 --> 3873.22] To -[3873.22 --> 3873.32] Be -[3873.32 --> 3873.52] All -[3873.52 --> 3873.74] In -[3873.74 --> 3876.48] Now -[3876.48 --> 3877.60] Immediately -[3877.60 --> 3879.24] Some -[3879.24 --> 3879.38] Of -[3879.38 --> 3879.52] You -[3879.52 --> 3879.70] Are -[3879.70 --> 3880.02] Thinking -[3880.02 --> 3880.88] Yeah -[3880.88 --> 3881.14] You -[3881.14 --> 3881.40] Tell -[3881.40 --> 3881.58] Him -[3881.58 --> 3882.42] I'm -[3882.42 --> 3882.56] Coming -[3882.56 --> 3882.76] For -[3882.76 --> 3882.92] You -[3882.92 --> 3883.14] Just -[3883.14 --> 3883.36] Wait -[3883.36 --> 3884.74] Some -[3884.74 --> 3884.86] Of -[3884.86 --> 3884.96] You -[3884.96 --> 3885.10] Are -[3885.10 --> 3885.46] Thinking -[3885.46 --> 3887.08] But -[3887.08 --> 3887.20] It -[3887.20 --> 3887.42] Makes -[3887.42 --> 3887.58] Me -[3887.58 --> 3887.96] Happy -[3887.96 --> 3888.62] And -[3888.62 --> 3888.88] God -[3888.88 --> 3889.16] Wants -[3889.16 --> 3889.28] Me -[3889.28 --> 3889.38] To -[3889.38 --> 3889.50] Be -[3889.50 --> 3889.84] Happy -[3889.84 --> 3890.16] Doesn't -[3890.16 --> 3890.38] He -[3890.38 --> 3891.58] And -[3891.58 --> 3891.68] I'm -[3891.68 --> 3891.84] Glad -[3891.84 --> 3891.98] You -[3891.98 --> 3892.18] Asked -[3892.18 --> 3892.30] That -[3892.30 --> 3892.54] Question -[3892.54 --> 3892.86] I'm -[3892.86 --> 3893.04] Glad -[3893.04 --> 3893.28] That's -[3893.28 --> 3893.40] What -[3893.40 --> 3893.50] You -[3893.50 --> 3893.64] Were -[3893.64 --> 3894.18] Wrestling -[3894.18 --> 3894.40] With -[3894.40 --> 3894.62] Because -[3894.62 --> 3894.92] That's -[3894.92 --> 3895.40] Exactly -[3895.40 --> 3895.62] The -[3895.62 --> 3895.86] Point -[3895.86 --> 3896.02] I'm -[3896.02 --> 3896.16] Trying -[3896.16 --> 3896.28] To -[3896.28 --> 3896.48] Make -[3896.48 --> 3897.58] Right -[3897.58 --> 3897.78] There's -[3897.78 --> 3897.96] A -[3897.96 --> 3898.64] Cultural -[3898.64 --> 3899.60] Imposition -[3899.60 --> 3900.32] Of -[3900.32 --> 3900.52] A -[3900.52 --> 3900.86] Certain -[3900.86 --> 3901.54] Philosophy -[3901.54 --> 3901.84] Of -[3901.84 --> 3902.16] Life -[3902.16 --> 3902.40] That -[3902.40 --> 3902.90] Says -[3902.90 --> 3903.34] The -[3903.34 --> 3903.82] Ultimate -[3903.82 --> 3904.36] Arbiter -[3904.36 --> 3904.62] Of -[3904.62 --> 3904.76] What -[3904.76 --> 3904.96] Is -[3904.96 --> 3905.56] Good -[3905.56 --> 3906.10] Is -[3906.10 --> 3906.32] Your -[3906.32 --> 3906.74] Happiness -[3906.74 --> 3907.14] And -[3907.14 --> 3907.46] Then -[3907.46 --> 3908.10] Tries -[3908.10 --> 3908.34] To -[3908.34 --> 3908.96] Justify -[3908.96 --> 3909.20] It -[3909.20 --> 3909.38] By -[3909.38 --> 3909.76] Saying -[3909.76 --> 3910.14] God -[3910.14 --> 3910.44] Wants -[3910.44 --> 3910.60] You -[3910.60 --> 3910.76] To -[3910.76 --> 3910.90] Be -[3910.90 --> 3911.24] Happy -[3911.24 --> 3912.44] But -[3912.44 --> 3912.64] Here's -[3912.64 --> 3912.72] What -[3912.72 --> 3912.84] The -[3912.84 --> 3913.04] Bible -[3913.04 --> 3913.36] Says -[3913.36 --> 3915.70] God -[3915.70 --> 3915.98] Wants -[3915.98 --> 3916.08] You -[3916.08 --> 3916.24] To -[3916.24 --> 3916.40] Be -[3916.40 --> 3916.76] Holy -[3916.76 --> 3918.82] He -[3918.82 --> 3919.04] Wants -[3919.04 --> 3919.14] You -[3919.14 --> 3919.26] To -[3919.26 --> 3919.44] Be -[3919.44 --> 3919.88] Holy -[3919.88 --> 3921.06] And -[3921.06 --> 3921.18] To -[3921.18 --> 3921.36] Not -[3921.36 --> 3921.78] Conform -[3921.78 --> 3921.98] Any -[3921.98 --> 3922.24] Longer -[3922.24 --> 3922.36] To -[3922.36 --> 3922.48] The -[3922.48 --> 3922.76] Pattern -[3922.76 --> 3922.88] Of -[3922.88 --> 3923.04] This -[3923.04 --> 3923.26] World -[3923.26 --> 3923.70] And -[3923.70 --> 3923.86] To -[3923.86 --> 3924.34] Find -[3924.34 --> 3924.68] In -[3924.68 --> 3924.94] Your -[3924.94 --> 3925.78] Holiness -[3925.78 --> 3926.08] In -[3926.08 --> 3926.24] Your -[3926.24 --> 3926.58] Being -[3926.58 --> 3926.88] Set -[3926.88 --> 3927.32] Apart -[3927.32 --> 3927.86] The -[3927.86 --> 3928.10] Kind -[3928.10 --> 3928.22] Of -[3928.22 --> 3928.84] Abundant -[3928.84 --> 3929.26] Fully -[3929.26 --> 3929.78] Alive -[3929.78 --> 3930.12] Life -[3930.12 --> 3930.52] That -[3930.52 --> 3930.80] God -[3930.80 --> 3930.96] Had -[3930.96 --> 3931.42] Always -[3931.42 --> 3932.26] Designed -[3932.26 --> 3932.56] For -[3932.56 --> 3932.70] The -[3932.70 --> 3933.16] Creatures -[3933.16 --> 3933.46] Made -[3933.46 --> 3933.58] In -[3933.58 --> 3933.76] His -[3933.76 --> 3934.08] Image -[3934.08 --> 3943.32] But -[3943.32 --> 3943.46] This -[3943.46 --> 3943.60] Is -[3943.60 --> 3943.94] Hard -[3943.94 --> 3947.30] People -[3947.30 --> 3947.52] Have -[3947.52 --> 3947.68] Said -[3947.68 --> 3947.78] It -[3947.78 --> 3948.14] Before -[3948.14 --> 3949.38] So -[3949.38 --> 3949.50] I'm -[3949.50 --> 3949.60] Not -[3949.60 --> 3949.72] The -[3949.72 --> 3949.88] First -[3949.88 --> 3950.02] One -[3950.02 --> 3950.12] To -[3950.12 --> 3950.26] Say -[3950.26 --> 3950.46] This -[3950.46 --> 3950.62] But -[3950.62 --> 3951.08] The -[3951.08 --> 3951.48] Problem -[3951.48 --> 3951.76] With -[3951.76 --> 3952.18] Living -[3952.18 --> 3952.96] Sacrifice -[3952.96 --> 3953.40] Is -[3953.40 --> 3954.70] Is -[3954.70 --> 3954.86] That -[3954.86 --> 3955.02] We -[3955.02 --> 3955.30] Walk -[3955.30 --> 3955.50] Off -[3955.50 --> 3955.66] The -[3955.66 --> 3956.00] Altar -[3956.00 --> 3958.74] Right -[3958.74 --> 3958.90] In -[3958.90 --> 3959.02] Our -[3959.02 --> 3959.22] Heart -[3959.22 --> 3959.34] Of -[3959.34 --> 3959.72] Hearts -[3959.72 --> 3961.18] We -[3961.18 --> 3961.34] Don't -[3961.34 --> 3961.52] Want -[3961.52 --> 3961.62] To -[3961.62 --> 3961.78] Do -[3961.78 --> 3962.18] This -[3962.18 --> 3963.92] We -[3963.92 --> 3964.04] Don't -[3964.04 --> 3964.20] Want -[3964.20 --> 3964.32] To -[3964.32 --> 3964.96] Sacrifice -[3964.96 --> 3965.36] That -[3965.36 --> 3967.58] Right -[3967.58 --> 3968.02] Now -[3968.02 --> 3968.22] Again -[3968.22 --> 3968.40] I'm -[3968.40 --> 3968.50] Not -[3968.50 --> 3968.62] The -[3968.62 --> 3968.80] First -[3968.80 --> 3969.06] Person -[3969.06 --> 3969.22] To -[3969.22 --> 3969.38] Say -[3969.38 --> 3969.60] This -[3969.60 --> 3969.74] But -[3969.74 --> 3970.68] There -[3970.68 --> 3970.90] Has -[3970.90 --> 3971.50] Probably -[3971.50 --> 3972.04] Never -[3972.04 --> 3972.52] Been -[3972.52 --> 3972.80] A -[3972.80 --> 3973.18] Culture -[3973.18 --> 3973.54] In -[3973.54 --> 3973.68] The -[3973.68 --> 3974.08] History -[3974.08 --> 3974.36] Of -[3974.36 --> 3974.52] The -[3974.52 --> 3974.84] World -[3974.84 --> 3975.66] So -[3975.66 --> 3976.60] Opposed -[3976.60 --> 3976.90] To -[3976.90 --> 3977.36] Christian -[3977.36 --> 3977.78] Living -[3977.78 --> 3978.30] Than -[3978.30 --> 3978.64] Right -[3978.64 --> 3979.00] Now -[3979.00 --> 3980.68] Now -[3980.68 --> 3982.70] Here's -[3982.70 --> 3982.86] Where I -[3982.86 --> 3983.00] Need -[3983.00 --> 3983.08] You -[3983.08 --> 3983.20] To -[3983.20 --> 3983.38] Lean -[3983.38 --> 3983.64] In -[3983.64 --> 3985.38] Here's -[3985.38 --> 3985.62] Where I'm -[3985.62 --> 3985.70] Going -[3985.70 --> 3985.76] To -[3985.76 --> 3985.92] Say -[3985.92 --> 3986.16] Don't -[3986.16 --> 3986.28] Hear -[3986.28 --> 3986.50] What I'm -[3986.50 --> 3986.64] Not -[3986.64 --> 3986.98] Saying -[3986.98 --> 3988.40] Right -[3988.40 --> 3988.58] Here's -[3988.58 --> 3988.72] Where I -[3988.72 --> 3988.82] Want -[3988.82 --> 3988.88] You -[3988.88 --> 3988.92] To -[3988.92 --> 3989.04] Be -[3989.04 --> 3989.38] Careful -[3989.38 --> 3990.06] Remember -[3990.06 --> 3990.32] I said -[3990.32 --> 3990.48] I was -[3990.48 --> 3990.68] Coming -[3990.68 --> 3990.86] For -[3990.86 --> 3991.00] You -[3991.00 --> 3991.24] Because -[3991.24 --> 3991.54] Here I -[3991.54 --> 3991.68] Am -[3991.68 --> 3991.82] I'm -[3991.82 --> 3992.00] Coming -[3992.00 --> 3992.18] For -[3992.18 --> 3992.32] You -[3992.32 --> 3992.90] I'm -[3992.90 --> 3993.20] Not -[3993.20 --> 3993.64] Talking -[3993.64 --> 3993.96] About -[3993.96 --> 3994.44] Christian -[3994.44 --> 3995.12] Morality -[3995.12 --> 3995.76] I'm -[3995.76 --> 3995.92] Not -[3995.92 --> 3996.16] Talking -[3996.16 --> 3996.34] About -[3996.34 --> 3996.68] Christian -[3996.68 --> 3997.52] Moralisms -[3997.52 --> 3997.88] I'm -[3997.88 --> 3997.98] Not -[3997.98 --> 3998.12] Talking -[3998.12 --> 3998.26] About -[3998.26 --> 3998.98] Secularism -[3998.98 --> 3999.34] Or -[3999.34 --> 3999.92] Atheism -[3999.92 --> 4000.86] Because -[4000.86 --> 4001.06] In -[4001.06 --> 4001.28] That -[4001.28 --> 4001.82] Regard -[4001.82 --> 4002.24] Right -[4002.24 --> 4002.54] It's -[4002.54 --> 4003.20] Actually -[4003.20 --> 4003.68] Probably -[4003.68 --> 4004.06] More -[4004.06 --> 4004.46] True -[4004.46 --> 4004.74] That -[4004.74 --> 4004.90] There -[4004.90 --> 4005.10] Has -[4005.10 --> 4005.36] Never -[4005.36 --> 4005.64] Been -[4005.64 --> 4005.86] A -[4005.86 --> 4006.18] Time -[4006.18 --> 4006.36] And -[4006.36 --> 4006.50] A -[4006.50 --> 4006.84] Culture -[4006.84 --> 4007.48] In -[4007.48 --> 4007.60] The -[4007.60 --> 4007.92] History -[4007.92 --> 4008.16] Of -[4008.16 --> 4008.32] The -[4008.32 --> 4008.66] World -[4008.66 --> 4009.22] So -[4009.22 --> 4010.24] Influenced -[4010.24 --> 4010.48] By -[4010.48 --> 4011.18] Christianity -[4011.18 --> 4011.58] And -[4011.58 --> 4011.96] Christian -[4011.96 --> 4012.66] Teachings -[4012.66 --> 4013.14] Even -[4013.14 --> 4013.34] If -[4013.34 --> 4013.54] We've -[4013.54 --> 4013.84] Largely -[4013.84 --> 4014.30] Forgotten -[4014.30 --> 4014.44] The -[4014.44 --> 4014.80] Sources -[4014.80 --> 4016.16] Right -[4016.16 --> 4016.44] Things -[4016.44 --> 4016.68] Like -[4016.68 --> 4017.14] Universal -[4017.14 --> 4017.54] Human -[4017.54 --> 4017.96] Rights -[4017.96 --> 4018.56] Things -[4018.56 --> 4018.86] Like -[4018.86 --> 4019.20] Health -[4019.20 --> 4019.50] Care -[4019.50 --> 4020.50] Hospitals -[4020.50 --> 4021.38] Things -[4021.38 --> 4021.64] Like -[4021.64 --> 4022.78] Education -[4022.78 --> 4023.26] The -[4023.26 --> 4023.74] Presumption -[4023.74 --> 4023.90] Of -[4023.90 --> 4024.38] Education -[4024.38 --> 4024.80] Higher -[4024.80 --> 4025.40] Education -[4025.40 --> 4026.02] Right -[4026.02 --> 4026.16] The -[4026.16 --> 4026.38] First -[4026.38 --> 4027.08] Universities -[4027.08 --> 4027.32] Were -[4027.32 --> 4028.34] Monasteries -[4028.34 --> 4029.82] Right -[4029.82 --> 4029.98] The -[4029.98 --> 4030.28] Idea -[4030.28 --> 4030.46] Of -[4030.46 --> 4030.86] Religious -[4030.86 --> 4031.30] Freedom -[4031.30 --> 4032.24] Right -[4032.24 --> 4032.50] All -[4032.50 --> 4032.84] Things -[4032.84 --> 4033.02] That -[4033.02 --> 4033.12] We -[4033.12 --> 4033.36] Take -[4033.36 --> 4033.56] For -[4033.56 --> 4033.86] Granted -[4033.86 --> 4034.14] In -[4034.14 --> 4034.26] The -[4034.26 --> 4034.46] World -[4034.46 --> 4034.84] Today -[4034.84 --> 4035.06] In -[4035.06 --> 4035.20] The -[4035.20 --> 4035.54] Modern -[4035.54 --> 4036.24] Secular -[4036.24 --> 4036.54] World -[4036.54 --> 4036.84] Today -[4036.84 --> 4037.08] These -[4037.08 --> 4037.20] Are -[4037.20 --> 4037.58] Christian -[4037.58 --> 4038.06] Ideas -[4038.06 --> 4038.24] And -[4038.24 --> 4038.60] Christian -[4038.60 --> 4039.54] Ideals -[4039.54 --> 4040.32] And -[4040.32 --> 4040.64] So -[4040.64 --> 4041.80] When -[4041.80 --> 4041.98] I -[4041.98 --> 4042.36] Say -[4042.36 --> 4042.74] There -[4042.74 --> 4043.06] Never -[4043.06 --> 4043.24] Been -[4043.24 --> 4043.38] A -[4043.38 --> 4043.68] Time -[4043.68 --> 4043.98] So -[4043.98 --> 4044.80] Opposed -[4044.80 --> 4045.08] To -[4045.08 --> 4045.58] Christian -[4045.58 --> 4046.02] Living -[4046.02 --> 4046.52] Than -[4046.52 --> 4046.76] Right -[4046.76 --> 4047.16] Now -[4047.16 --> 4047.64] I -[4047.64 --> 4047.90] Mean -[4047.90 --> 4048.12] That -[4048.12 --> 4049.22] Philosophically -[4049.22 --> 4050.14] I -[4050.14 --> 4050.32] Mean -[4050.32 --> 4050.54] That -[4050.54 --> 4052.12] Anthropologically -[4052.12 --> 4052.52] Right -[4052.52 --> 4052.70] What -[4052.70 --> 4053.02] We -[4053.02 --> 4053.52] Mean -[4053.52 --> 4053.96] And -[4053.96 --> 4054.40] Think -[4054.40 --> 4054.76] When -[4054.76 --> 4055.04] We -[4055.04 --> 4055.52] Talk -[4055.52 --> 4055.82] About -[4055.82 --> 4056.04] What -[4056.04 --> 4056.18] It -[4056.18 --> 4056.40] Means -[4056.40 --> 4056.58] To -[4056.58 --> 4056.74] Be -[4056.74 --> 4057.20] Human -[4057.20 --> 4059.50] Because -[4059.50 --> 4059.64] The -[4059.64 --> 4059.90] General -[4059.90 --> 4060.20] Idea -[4060.20 --> 4060.40] That -[4060.40 --> 4060.78] Exists -[4060.78 --> 4060.94] In -[4060.94 --> 4061.06] The -[4061.06 --> 4061.26] World -[4061.26 --> 4061.56] Today -[4061.56 --> 4061.76] And -[4061.76 --> 4062.32] Exists -[4062.32 --> 4062.60] In -[4062.60 --> 4062.90] You -[4062.90 --> 4063.84] And -[4063.84 --> 4064.10] Me -[4064.10 --> 4065.14] Is -[4065.14 --> 4065.30] That -[4065.30 --> 4065.50] We -[4065.50 --> 4065.70] Are -[4065.70 --> 4066.12] Masters -[4066.12 --> 4066.40] Of -[4066.40 --> 4066.52] Our -[4066.52 --> 4066.70] Own -[4066.70 --> 4067.28] Destinies -[4067.28 --> 4068.30] That -[4068.30 --> 4068.48] We -[4068.48 --> 4068.78] Ought -[4068.78 --> 4068.98] To -[4068.98 --> 4069.16] Be -[4069.16 --> 4069.44] Free -[4069.44 --> 4069.68] To -[4069.68 --> 4069.94] Be -[4069.94 --> 4070.34] Whoever -[4070.34 --> 4070.60] It -[4070.60 --> 4070.74] Is -[4070.74 --> 4070.88] That -[4070.88 --> 4071.00] We -[4071.00 --> 4071.28] Are -[4071.28 --> 4071.66] Who -[4071.66 --> 4071.82] We -[4071.82 --> 4072.06] Want -[4072.06 --> 4072.22] To -[4072.22 --> 4072.46] Be -[4072.46 --> 4073.74] And -[4073.74 --> 4073.94] That -[4073.94 --> 4074.04] Is -[4074.04 --> 4074.24] The -[4074.24 --> 4074.80] Idea -[4074.80 --> 4075.48] That -[4075.48 --> 4075.64] Is -[4075.64 --> 4075.88] The -[4075.88 --> 4076.70] Opposite -[4080.32 --> 4080.60] To -[4080.60 --> 4080.76] Be -[4080.76 --> 4081.80] Right -[4081.80 --> 4082.26] Real -[4082.26 --> 4082.86] Christian -[4082.86 --> 4083.80] Living -[4083.80 --> 4084.26] Living -[4084.26 --> 4084.66] Because -[4084.66 --> 4084.82] Of -[4084.82 --> 4085.14] God's -[4085.14 --> 4085.62] Mercy -[4085.62 --> 4086.90] Sacrifices -[4086.90 --> 4087.30] Any -[4087.30 --> 4087.78] And -[4087.78 --> 4088.26] Every -[4088.26 --> 4088.58] And -[4088.58 --> 4088.98] All -[4088.98 --> 4089.70] Claims -[4089.70 --> 4089.94] To -[4089.94 --> 4090.52] Self -[4090.52 --> 4091.08] And -[4091.08 --> 4091.64] Gives -[4091.64 --> 4092.44] Yourself -[4092.44 --> 4092.78] All -[4092.78 --> 4092.94] Of -[4092.94 --> 4093.14] Who -[4093.14 --> 4093.34] You -[4093.34 --> 4093.68] Are -[4093.68 --> 4094.24] All -[4094.24 --> 4094.40] Of -[4094.40 --> 4094.58] What -[4094.58 --> 4094.74] You -[4094.74 --> 4095.04] Do -[4095.04 --> 4095.44] And -[4095.44 --> 4095.78] All -[4095.78 --> 4095.90] Of -[4095.90 --> 4096.10] How -[4096.10 --> 4096.30] You -[4096.30 --> 4096.48] Will -[4096.48 --> 4096.72] Be -[4096.72 --> 4097.32] Gives -[4097.32 --> 4097.50] It -[4097.50 --> 4097.82] All -[4097.82 --> 4098.04] To -[4098.04 --> 4098.50] God -[4098.50 --> 4099.16] For -[4099.16 --> 4099.60] God -[4099.60 --> 4100.22] To -[4100.22 --> 4100.72] God -[4100.72 --> 4101.16] Be -[4101.16 --> 4101.50] The -[4101.50 --> 4101.86] Glory -[4101.86 --> 4103.48] And -[4103.48 --> 4103.86] Yes -[4103.86 --> 4104.42] It -[4104.42 --> 4104.90] Feels -[4104.90 --> 4105.28] Like -[4105.28 --> 4105.74] Death -[4105.74 --> 4107.58] Because -[4107.58 --> 4107.70] In -[4107.70 --> 4107.84] Many -[4107.84 --> 4108.10] Ways -[4108.10 --> 4108.56] It -[4108.56 --> 4108.88] Is -[4108.88 --> 4110.14] Death -[4110.14 --> 4114.10] But -[4114.10 --> 4114.22] If -[4114.22 --> 4114.32] You -[4114.32 --> 4114.42] Know -[4114.42 --> 4114.58] The -[4114.58 --> 4115.06] Gospel -[4115.06 --> 4116.74] If -[4116.74 --> 4116.80] You -[4116.80 --> 4116.88] Know -[4116.88 --> 4117.00] The -[4117.00 --> 4117.32] Gospel -[4117.32 --> 4117.56] Of -[4117.56 --> 4117.82] Jesus -[4117.82 --> 4118.06] You -[4118.06 --> 4118.28] Know -[4118.28 --> 4118.52] That -[4118.52 --> 4119.00] On -[4119.00 --> 4119.16] The -[4119.16 --> 4119.46] Other -[4119.46 --> 4119.88] Side -[4119.88 --> 4120.10] Of -[4120.10 --> 4120.58] Death -[4120.58 --> 4122.16] Is -[4122.16 --> 4122.64] Life -[4122.64 --> 4124.04] True -[4124.04 --> 4124.52] Life -[4124.52 --> 4125.06] Real -[4125.06 --> 4125.92] Life -[4125.92 --> 4126.48] The -[4126.48 --> 4127.22] Paradox -[4127.22 --> 4127.54] Of -[4127.54 --> 4127.88] Living -[4127.88 --> 4128.76] Sacrifice -[4128.76 --> 4129.26] Means -[4129.26 --> 4130.00] Living -[4130.00 --> 4130.32] For -[4130.32 --> 4130.88] Yourself -[4130.88 --> 4131.16] Is -[4131.16 --> 4131.68] Ultimately -[4131.68 --> 4132.30] Being -[4132.30 --> 4132.60] Stuck -[4132.60 --> 4132.82] In -[4132.82 --> 4133.18] Death -[4133.18 --> 4134.46] And -[4134.46 --> 4135.00] Dying -[4135.00 --> 4135.26] To -[4135.26 --> 4135.64] Self -[4135.64 --> 4135.84] On -[4135.84 --> 4135.98] The -[4135.98 --> 4136.30] Cross -[4136.30 --> 4136.54] With -[4136.54 --> 4136.90] Jesus -[4136.90 --> 4137.26] Is -[4137.26 --> 4137.94] Actually -[4137.94 --> 4138.60] Where -[4138.60 --> 4138.80] You -[4138.80 --> 4139.28] Find -[4139.28 --> 4139.90] True -[4139.90 --> 4140.72] Life -[4140.72 --> 4143.06] This -[4143.06 --> 4144.14] Is -[4144.14 --> 4144.32] Your -[4144.32 --> 4144.70] True -[4144.70 --> 4144.94] And -[4144.94 --> 4145.34] Proper -[4145.34 --> 4146.26] Worship -[4146.26 --> 4148.66] That's -[4148.66 --> 4148.96] What Paul -[4148.96 --> 4149.30] Says -[4149.30 --> 4151.56] Sometimes -[4151.56 --> 4153.58] We -[4153.58 --> 4153.98] Think -[4153.98 --> 4154.98] That -[4154.98 --> 4155.40] Worship -[4155.40 --> 4156.66] Is -[4156.66 --> 4157.06] About -[4157.06 --> 4157.28] What -[4157.28 --> 4157.44] We -[4157.44 --> 4157.72] Do -[4157.72 --> 4158.16] On -[4158.16 --> 4158.56] Sunday -[4158.56 --> 4158.80] The -[4158.80 --> 4159.08] Singing -[4159.08 --> 4159.30] Of -[4159.30 --> 4159.64] Songs -[4159.64 --> 4159.78] And -[4159.78 --> 4159.90] The -[4159.90 --> 4160.16] Praying -[4160.16 --> 4160.32] Of -[4160.32 --> 4160.70] Prayers -[4160.70 --> 4160.84] And -[4160.84 --> 4160.96] The -[4160.96 --> 4161.26] Listening -[4161.26 --> 4162.12] To -[4162.12 --> 4162.40] Of -[4162.40 --> 4162.82] Sermons -[4162.82 --> 4162.96] The -[4162.96 --> 4163.62] Participating -[4163.62 --> 4164.16] In -[4164.16 --> 4164.30] The -[4164.30 --> 4164.68] Sacraments -[4164.68 --> 4164.82] And -[4164.82 --> 4165.10] Don't -[4165.10 --> 4165.18] Get -[4165.18 --> 4165.50] Wrong -[4165.50 --> 4165.70] Of -[4165.70 --> 4165.86] Course -[4165.86 --> 4166.08] That's -[4166.08 --> 4166.34] Part -[4166.34 --> 4166.46] Of -[4166.46 --> 4166.64] It -[4166.64 --> 4167.86] Right -[4167.86 --> 4168.50] But -[4168.50 --> 4168.78] That -[4168.78 --> 4169.14] Kind -[4169.14 --> 4169.32] Of -[4169.32 --> 4169.70] Worship -[4169.70 --> 4170.20] Is -[4170.20 --> 4170.42] The -[4170.42 --> 4171.02] Fuel -[4171.02 --> 4171.38] Is -[4171.38 --> 4171.56] The -[4171.56 --> 4172.32] Means -[4172.32 --> 4172.62] Of -[4172.62 --> 4173.12] Grace -[4173.12 --> 4173.72] For -[4173.72 --> 4173.88] The -[4173.88 --> 4174.18] Kind -[4174.18 --> 4174.36] Of -[4174.36 --> 4174.68] Worship -[4174.68 --> 4174.92] That -[4174.92 --> 4175.14] Goes -[4175.14 --> 4175.40] From -[4175.40 --> 4175.66] This -[4175.66 --> 4176.06] Place -[4176.06 --> 4176.34] And -[4176.34 --> 4177.00] Says -[4177.00 --> 4177.72] In -[4177.72 --> 4178.38] Everything -[4178.38 --> 4179.40] I -[4179.40 --> 4180.14] Give -[4180.14 --> 4180.26] It -[4180.26 --> 4180.46] Up -[4180.46 --> 4181.04] I -[4181.04 --> 4181.30] Put -[4181.30 --> 4181.52] To -[4181.52 --> 4181.82] Death -[4181.82 --> 4182.06] I -[4182.06 --> 4183.00] Offer -[4183.00 --> 4183.14] It -[4183.14 --> 4183.36] As -[4183.36 --> 4183.54] A -[4183.54 --> 4184.32] Sacrifice -[4184.32 --> 4185.22] My -[4185.22 --> 4185.24] My -[4185.24 --> 4185.26] My -[4185.26 --> 4185.76] Choice -[4185.76 --> 4186.34] And -[4186.34 --> 4186.56] My -[4186.56 --> 4187.22] Everything -[4187.22 --> 4187.96] Over -[4187.96 --> 4188.16] To -[4188.16 --> 4188.44] God -[4188.44 --> 4190.06] Worship -[4190.06 --> 4190.50] Is -[4190.50 --> 4191.36] Sacrificing -[4191.36 --> 4191.60] Your -[4191.60 --> 4192.14] Narrow -[4192.14 --> 4192.68] Joy -[4192.68 --> 4193.16] For -[4193.16 --> 4193.32] The -[4193.32 --> 4193.70] Joy -[4193.70 --> 4194.04] Of -[4194.04 --> 4194.40] Joining -[4194.40 --> 4194.64] In -[4194.64 --> 4194.96] God's -[4194.96 --> 4195.38] Mission -[4195.38 --> 4196.20] Worship -[4196.20 --> 4196.50] Is -[4196.50 --> 4197.24] Sacrificing -[4197.24 --> 4197.40] Your -[4197.40 --> 4197.78] Narrow -[4197.78 --> 4198.14] Joy -[4198.14 --> 4198.36] For -[4198.36 --> 4198.50] The -[4198.50 --> 4198.76] Joy -[4198.76 --> 4198.96] Of -[4198.96 --> 4199.26] Joining -[4199.26 --> 4199.52] With -[4199.52 --> 4199.82] God -[4199.82 --> 4200.04] Being -[4200.04 --> 4200.52] United -[4200.52 --> 4201.06] With -[4201.06 --> 4201.40] Christ -[4201.40 --> 4202.12] Only -[4202.12 --> 4202.40] To -[4202.40 --> 4202.92] Find -[4202.92 --> 4203.76] That -[4203.76 --> 4204.18] Such -[4204.18 --> 4205.14] Sacrificing -[4205.14 --> 4205.82] Leads -[4205.82 --> 4206.14] To -[4206.14 --> 4206.86] Eternal -[4206.86 --> 4207.74] Joy -[4207.74 --> 4209.60] That -[4209.60 --> 4209.74] It's -[4209.74 --> 4209.92] The -[4209.92 --> 4210.22] Only -[4210.22 --> 4210.66] Thing -[4210.66 --> 4210.86] That -[4210.86 --> 4211.10] Makes -[4211.10 --> 4211.56] Sense -[4211.56 --> 4211.80] In -[4211.80 --> 4212.42] Response -[4212.42 --> 4212.66] To -[4212.66 --> 4213.02] God's -[4213.02 --> 4213.56] Mercy -[4213.56 --> 4215.94] And -[4215.94 --> 4216.06] In -[4216.06 --> 4216.24] Fact -[4216.24 --> 4217.56] It's -[4217.56 --> 4217.70] Not -[4217.70 --> 4217.90] Really -[4217.90 --> 4218.32] Clear -[4218.32 --> 4218.68] In -[4218.68 --> 4219.20] In -[4219.20 --> 4219.32] The -[4219.32 --> 4219.94] Translation -[4219.94 --> 4220.74] That -[4220.74 --> 4220.88] We -[4220.88 --> 4221.12] Have -[4221.12 --> 4221.38] Here -[4221.38 --> 4221.58] In -[4221.58 --> 4221.76] Front -[4221.76 --> 4221.90] Of -[4221.90 --> 4222.16] Us -[4222.16 --> 4223.74] That -[4223.74 --> 4223.88] We -[4223.88 --> 4224.12] Read -[4224.12 --> 4224.44] From -[4224.44 --> 4225.68] Paul -[4225.68 --> 4226.82] Describes -[4226.82 --> 4227.56] The -[4227.56 --> 4228.48] Offering -[4228.48 --> 4228.70] Of -[4228.70 --> 4228.84] Your -[4228.84 --> 4229.26] Bodies -[4229.26 --> 4229.50] As -[4229.50 --> 4229.74] Living -[4229.74 --> 4230.50] Sacrifices -[4230.50 --> 4230.82] Holy -[4230.82 --> 4231.06] And -[4231.06 --> 4231.34] Pleasing -[4231.34 --> 4231.48] To -[4231.48 --> 4231.70] God -[4231.70 --> 4231.86] He -[4231.86 --> 4232.04] Says -[4232.04 --> 4232.34] This -[4232.34 --> 4232.84] Is -[4232.84 --> 4233.36] Your -[4233.36 --> 4233.80] True -[4233.80 --> 4234.12] And -[4234.12 --> 4234.64] Proper -[4234.64 --> 4235.56] Worship -[4235.56 --> 4236.82] That -[4236.82 --> 4237.36] Phrase -[4237.36 --> 4237.74] True -[4237.74 --> 4237.98] And -[4237.98 --> 4238.40] Proper -[4238.40 --> 4239.16] Is -[4239.16 --> 4239.52] Actually -[4239.52 --> 4239.84] Just -[4239.84 --> 4240.18] One -[4240.18 --> 4240.48] Word -[4240.48 --> 4240.70] In -[4240.70 --> 4241.00] Greek -[4241.00 --> 4242.32] And -[4242.32 --> 4242.42] The -[4242.42 --> 4242.64] Word -[4242.64 --> 4242.88] Is -[4242.88 --> 4243.54] Logikon -[4243.54 --> 4244.74] It's -[4244.74 --> 4244.88] The -[4244.88 --> 4245.24] Word -[4245.24 --> 4245.54] From -[4245.54 --> 4245.72] Which -[4245.72 --> 4245.86] We -[4245.86 --> 4246.00] Get -[4246.00 --> 4246.58] Logic -[4246.58 --> 4247.08] Or -[4247.08 --> 4247.68] Logical -[4247.68 --> 4247.92] It -[4247.92 --> 4248.16] Means -[4248.16 --> 4248.86] Rational -[4248.86 --> 4249.48] Or -[4249.48 --> 4250.24] Logically -[4250.24 --> 4251.10] Consequent -[4251.10 --> 4252.78] And -[4252.78 --> 4253.34] Here's -[4253.34 --> 4253.58] Why I -[4253.58 --> 4253.68] Think -[4253.68 --> 4253.84] That -[4253.84 --> 4254.26] Matters -[4254.26 --> 4254.44] Right -[4254.44 --> 4254.84] Because -[4254.84 --> 4255.34] It's -[4255.34 --> 4255.98] Only -[4255.98 --> 4256.52] In -[4256.52 --> 4257.08] Light -[4257.08 --> 4257.12] Love -[4287.08 --> 4295.06] of yourself is actually irrational. That's Paul's point. That's the thing -[4295.06 --> 4308.02] that's so amazing about grace. If what God did in Jesus Christ doesn't move you, -[4308.02 --> 4315.82] you haven't comprehended it completely yet or fully enough yet. And let me say -[4315.82 --> 4320.56] it again, right? Because here's the point. To the outside world, that is to people who don't know -[4320.56 --> 4327.04] Jesus in this way, that won't make any sense. In fact, it can't make sense. As we've just seen, -[4327.08 --> 4331.24] it can't make sense because they haven't experienced God's mercy. They haven't experienced -[4331.24 --> 4336.80] the truth that justification is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone. They haven't -[4336.80 --> 4341.94] been united with Christ in his sufferings and so united with him in his resurrection. -[4341.94 --> 4350.38] What you believe in and who you are, what you do with your life because of that belief, -[4350.68 --> 4355.00] isn't going to make sense to your unbelieving friends. -[4357.60 --> 4362.68] Here's two or three really easy examples, but you can figure out the application for yourself. -[4363.84 --> 4367.62] What do you mean you gave $10,000 to your church last year? -[4367.62 --> 4372.44] Don't you know what kind of vacation you could go on for that money? -[4375.24 --> 4380.74] What do you mean you're not having sex till you're married? It's just sex and it feels good. -[4383.00 --> 4387.64] What do you mean you don't have a TikTok account? Doesn't everyone your age have a TikTok account? -[4387.64 --> 4393.60] That's what's Nora. She gave me the glaring eyes. -[4395.60 --> 4396.92] On and on the list goes. -[4399.00 --> 4401.78] What you have been called to offer -[4401.78 --> 4405.44] as a living sacrifice is the fullness -[4405.44 --> 4406.38] of who you are. -[4407.22 --> 4407.86] So I'm asking, -[4408.44 --> 4410.26] what is it? -[4411.34 --> 4413.32] What is it right now, today, -[4413.44 --> 4415.34] that God is laying on your heart and putting in your mind? -[4415.34 --> 4417.90] What is it that you are being called to offer -[4417.90 --> 4418.96] as a living sacrifice? -[4419.18 --> 4421.34] Because today you are saying, -[4421.62 --> 4423.20] I will trust God more -[4423.20 --> 4424.60] than I trust myself. -[4427.50 --> 4430.10] When your Christian faith makes you peculiar -[4430.10 --> 4430.96] in the world, -[4431.16 --> 4433.66] you're living in line with verse 12 of our text. -[4434.06 --> 4434.28] It says, -[4434.46 --> 4435.22] do not conform, -[4435.64 --> 4436.90] or verse 2, sorry, of our text. -[4436.98 --> 4439.28] Do not conform to the pattern of this world, -[4439.36 --> 4441.54] but be transformed by the renewing -[4441.54 --> 4442.50] of your mind. -[4442.50 --> 4444.68] Do not conform, -[4444.90 --> 4446.16] but be transformed. -[4447.54 --> 4448.62] Do not conform, -[4448.84 --> 4450.68] but be changed -[4450.68 --> 4453.12] by the renewing of your mind. -[4453.76 --> 4454.52] Now that phrase, -[4454.68 --> 4456.42] transformed by the renewing of your mind, -[4456.78 --> 4458.56] is unique to this place -[4458.56 --> 4459.96] in Paul's writing. -[4460.64 --> 4461.56] The word transform -[4461.56 --> 4463.42] is actually used only here -[4463.42 --> 4464.74] and in one other place, -[4465.14 --> 4467.54] in 2 Corinthians 3, 18, -[4467.64 --> 4468.36] where Paul says, -[4468.36 --> 4471.08] we who with unveiled faces -[4471.08 --> 4472.92] all reflect the Lord's glory -[4472.92 --> 4474.00] are being transformed -[4474.00 --> 4475.72] into his likeness -[4475.72 --> 4477.40] with ever increasing glory -[4477.40 --> 4479.44] which comes from the Lord. -[4480.70 --> 4481.70] And so what's clear -[4481.70 --> 4482.86] is that this transformation -[4482.86 --> 4486.76] is about some deep inner transformation, -[4486.98 --> 4488.46] some deep inner change -[4488.46 --> 4490.50] that works itself out -[4490.50 --> 4492.86] from the inside out in our lives. -[4492.96 --> 4496.16] It's not some outward conformity. -[4496.16 --> 4498.34] It's a deep change. -[4499.44 --> 4501.24] We can continue digging into this. -[4501.36 --> 4503.08] In Colossians 3, 16, -[4503.46 --> 4504.14] we read, -[4504.64 --> 4505.98] let the word of Christ -[4505.98 --> 4507.48] dwell in you richly. -[4508.12 --> 4508.68] And so yes, -[4508.76 --> 4509.86] in this transformation, -[4510.32 --> 4512.90] there's an intellectual aspect to it. -[4513.14 --> 4514.76] You learn and you know -[4514.76 --> 4516.36] and you study God's word -[4516.36 --> 4518.54] and you grow as a result. -[4518.68 --> 4520.92] You are changed as a result. -[4522.52 --> 4524.14] Ephesians 4, 23, -[4524.14 --> 4527.18] says that we are to be made new -[4527.18 --> 4529.48] in the attitudes of your minds. -[4530.32 --> 4531.68] So part of what that means -[4531.68 --> 4534.10] is that the dominating impulse -[4534.10 --> 4534.90] in our mind, -[4535.06 --> 4536.86] our very imaginations, -[4537.40 --> 4539.60] the way we see the world -[4539.60 --> 4540.82] and how we engage -[4540.82 --> 4542.22] in the world around us -[4542.22 --> 4543.88] is reoriented, -[4544.12 --> 4546.86] is transformed by Jesus. -[4548.26 --> 4549.82] And with imaginations -[4549.82 --> 4551.10] captured by Christ, -[4551.20 --> 4552.22] you begin to see -[4552.22 --> 4553.60] that what is impossible -[4553.60 --> 4555.24] for you and me -[4555.24 --> 4557.92] is possible for God. -[4558.94 --> 4559.74] And then Paul continues -[4559.74 --> 4560.48] this idea, -[4560.60 --> 4561.18] working it out. -[4561.50 --> 4563.44] In 1 Corinthians 2, 13, -[4564.14 --> 4565.10] Paul says that -[4565.10 --> 4567.12] we speak not in words -[4567.12 --> 4568.94] taught us by human wisdom, -[4568.94 --> 4570.52] but in words taught -[4570.52 --> 4571.30] by the Spirit, -[4571.64 --> 4573.48] explaining spiritual realities -[4573.48 --> 4575.82] with Spirit-taught words. -[4576.62 --> 4577.66] And so pull that all together -[4577.66 --> 4578.44] for our understanding -[4578.44 --> 4578.92] of what it means -[4578.92 --> 4579.66] to be transformed -[4579.66 --> 4580.78] by the renewing of our minds. -[4580.88 --> 4582.40] The Spirit of God -[4582.40 --> 4584.18] takes the Word of God -[4584.18 --> 4586.76] and applies it to our minds -[4586.76 --> 4589.26] and then so transforms us. -[4589.50 --> 4591.06] And that results -[4591.06 --> 4594.42] in only one logical outcome. -[4596.04 --> 4596.56] Worship. -[4597.38 --> 4599.10] Worship that sacrifices -[4599.10 --> 4601.56] all of me for all of Him. -[4601.56 --> 4603.76] because in Him, -[4603.88 --> 4604.88] I am truly, -[4605.52 --> 4605.98] finally, -[4606.40 --> 4608.20] fully found. -[4613.52 --> 4614.56] Here's where I want to -[4614.56 --> 4616.78] end this morning. -[4619.34 --> 4620.48] Because after hearing -[4620.48 --> 4621.90] God's Word to us today, -[4623.32 --> 4625.16] my prayer -[4625.16 --> 4626.62] is there are, -[4626.94 --> 4628.20] there is at least -[4628.20 --> 4629.46] two things -[4629.46 --> 4630.48] that are clear -[4630.48 --> 4631.36] and present -[4631.36 --> 4632.10] in your mind. -[4633.42 --> 4634.20] I'm going to name them -[4634.20 --> 4635.66] because I want to be sure -[4635.66 --> 4636.06] that they're there. -[4636.48 --> 4636.90] First, -[4637.34 --> 4639.04] every single one of you -[4639.04 --> 4641.06] should be uncomfortable -[4641.06 --> 4641.94] right now. -[4643.88 --> 4645.46] Every single one of you -[4645.46 --> 4647.04] should be feeling -[4647.04 --> 4647.70] the pressures -[4647.70 --> 4649.48] of this living sacrifice -[4649.48 --> 4650.56] call to death. -[4651.08 --> 4652.06] Every one of you. -[4653.88 --> 4654.74] You should think, -[4655.14 --> 4656.02] what have I missed? -[4656.02 --> 4658.54] What have I been blind to? -[4659.40 --> 4660.38] What have I assumed -[4660.38 --> 4661.02] about life -[4661.02 --> 4662.10] that's cultural -[4662.10 --> 4663.68] and not biblical? -[4664.38 --> 4665.26] Every one of us -[4665.26 --> 4665.90] should be wondering, -[4666.24 --> 4666.76] what do I need -[4666.76 --> 4667.34] to sacrifice -[4667.34 --> 4668.46] for the glory of God? -[4668.82 --> 4669.58] What do I need -[4669.58 --> 4671.20] to let go of -[4671.20 --> 4672.20] in myself -[4672.20 --> 4673.24] or for myself? -[4673.60 --> 4675.04] The old theological term -[4675.04 --> 4676.00] here is mortify. -[4676.42 --> 4677.08] What do I need -[4677.08 --> 4677.96] to mortify -[4677.96 --> 4678.84] in my life -[4678.84 --> 4679.90] to put to death? -[4680.14 --> 4681.00] None of us -[4681.00 --> 4682.22] escapes this call. -[4686.02 --> 4687.68] And second, -[4688.52 --> 4692.18] even as you wrestle -[4692.18 --> 4693.74] with the uncomfortable -[4693.74 --> 4696.06] calling to put things -[4696.06 --> 4697.46] to death in your life, -[4698.00 --> 4699.54] here's this truth. -[4700.16 --> 4701.70] You can trust -[4701.70 --> 4705.48] in the love of God -[4705.48 --> 4708.02] because you've understood -[4708.02 --> 4709.00] the mercy of God. -[4709.94 --> 4710.64] Right? -[4710.66 --> 4711.46] You can take comfort -[4711.46 --> 4712.16] in the fact -[4712.16 --> 4713.18] that there is nothing -[4713.18 --> 4714.82] that can separate you -[4714.82 --> 4715.80] from the love of God -[4715.80 --> 4716.50] that is available -[4716.50 --> 4718.18] in Christ Jesus. -[4719.88 --> 4720.40] And in fact, -[4720.68 --> 4721.84] it's precisely because -[4721.84 --> 4722.54] there's nothing -[4722.54 --> 4723.82] that can separate us -[4723.82 --> 4724.46] from that love -[4724.46 --> 4725.70] that we do what we do. -[4726.12 --> 4727.28] It's precisely because -[4727.28 --> 4727.90] there's nothing -[4727.90 --> 4729.06] that can separate us -[4729.06 --> 4730.04] from the love of God -[4730.04 --> 4730.48] that we say, -[4730.82 --> 4732.12] this I will put to death -[4732.12 --> 4732.76] for Him. -[4734.64 --> 4735.74] That's why we willingly -[4735.74 --> 4736.76] offer ourselves -[4736.76 --> 4738.08] as sacrifices. -[4738.08 --> 4739.16] Not because we are trying -[4739.16 --> 4740.90] to earn the love of God, -[4741.04 --> 4742.34] but because we are living -[4742.34 --> 4744.50] out of the love -[4744.50 --> 4745.28] of God -[4745.28 --> 4747.56] given to us. -[4750.22 --> 4751.20] Some of you know -[4751.20 --> 4754.24] that I coach Malachi, -[4754.50 --> 4755.90] my son's soccer team. -[4755.98 --> 4756.72] Well, I'm one of the -[4756.72 --> 4757.40] assistant coaches. -[4758.24 --> 4759.16] I really know nothing -[4759.16 --> 4759.62] about soccer, -[4759.70 --> 4760.18] so I couldn't be -[4760.18 --> 4760.68] the head coach. -[4761.74 --> 4762.92] But that means -[4762.92 --> 4764.10] every week -[4764.10 --> 4765.68] for two hours -[4765.68 --> 4766.68] we have practices -[4766.68 --> 4768.04] and then for an hour -[4768.04 --> 4769.04] we have a game. -[4769.62 --> 4770.54] Two nights a week -[4770.54 --> 4771.54] for practice, -[4772.08 --> 4773.10] one morning -[4773.10 --> 4773.84] for a game -[4773.84 --> 4774.82] and we practice together. -[4776.34 --> 4776.54] Right? -[4776.60 --> 4777.66] But not just those -[4777.66 --> 4779.00] three times a week. -[4779.78 --> 4780.62] Malachi and I -[4780.62 --> 4781.56] will practice at home. -[4781.94 --> 4782.54] He likes to kick -[4782.54 --> 4783.16] a ball around. -[4783.28 --> 4784.42] He likes to work -[4784.42 --> 4786.14] on his place kicks. -[4786.24 --> 4786.94] He likes to work -[4786.94 --> 4787.78] on what it means -[4787.78 --> 4789.02] to cross or to dribble -[4789.02 --> 4789.94] and so we will -[4789.94 --> 4790.64] do that together. -[4793.16 --> 4794.12] He will ask me -[4794.12 --> 4794.84] to train him -[4794.84 --> 4797.14] and he will spend -[4797.14 --> 4799.44] hours working on it. -[4800.54 --> 4802.24] And I do this -[4802.24 --> 4802.74] with him -[4802.74 --> 4803.68] not because I love -[4803.68 --> 4804.08] soccer -[4804.08 --> 4806.34] but because I love -[4806.34 --> 4806.66] Malachi. -[4808.96 --> 4809.76] And then we come -[4809.76 --> 4810.36] to game day. -[4810.96 --> 4811.12] Right? -[4811.54 --> 4812.40] We put all this -[4812.40 --> 4813.04] training in. -[4813.54 --> 4814.42] We put all this -[4814.42 --> 4814.86] work in. -[4814.94 --> 4815.36] We've invested -[4815.36 --> 4816.22] all this time -[4816.22 --> 4817.16] and if Malachi -[4817.16 --> 4817.92] goes out on that -[4817.92 --> 4818.40] pitch and he -[4818.40 --> 4819.38] forgets everything -[4819.38 --> 4820.54] that we worked on. -[4821.92 --> 4822.88] If he can't even -[4822.88 --> 4823.68] figure out that he's -[4823.68 --> 4824.24] right-footed -[4824.24 --> 4824.98] and not left-foot -[4824.98 --> 4825.38] dominant, -[4826.64 --> 4827.34] he goes out there -[4827.34 --> 4828.10] and he flubs it -[4828.10 --> 4828.92] every single time -[4828.92 --> 4829.52] he gets a shot -[4829.52 --> 4829.86] on net. -[4830.58 --> 4831.22] Or if he goes -[4831.22 --> 4831.42] out there -[4831.42 --> 4831.92] and he forgets -[4831.92 --> 4832.68] to cross it in. -[4834.48 --> 4835.22] That doesn't -[4835.22 --> 4836.26] lessen my love -[4836.26 --> 4836.74] for him -[4836.74 --> 4838.22] in any way. -[4841.12 --> 4841.82] And Malachi -[4841.82 --> 4843.76] can be confident -[4843.76 --> 4844.84] of that. -[4845.20 --> 4846.12] That I will not -[4846.12 --> 4847.20] love him less -[4847.20 --> 4849.06] based on how well -[4849.06 --> 4849.68] he performs. -[4852.12 --> 4852.52] But, -[4852.88 --> 4854.70] you better believe -[4854.70 --> 4855.22] he still wants -[4855.22 --> 4855.92] to score a goal. -[4855.92 --> 4857.84] You better believe -[4857.84 --> 4858.36] he still wants -[4858.36 --> 4859.20] to go out there -[4859.20 --> 4860.26] and work his -[4860.26 --> 4861.70] tail off to do it. -[4862.58 --> 4863.32] He still wants -[4863.32 --> 4864.42] to play really well. -[4864.48 --> 4864.66] Again, -[4864.76 --> 4866.04] not to gain -[4866.04 --> 4866.82] my love, -[4867.00 --> 4867.70] but because he's -[4867.70 --> 4868.46] already loved. -[4869.28 --> 4869.96] Because we've -[4869.96 --> 4871.30] already invested -[4871.30 --> 4872.48] so much in it -[4872.48 --> 4872.80] together. -[4873.00 --> 4873.52] Because he's -[4873.52 --> 4874.04] already loved. -[4874.16 --> 4875.54] If he doubted -[4875.54 --> 4876.24] my love, -[4876.98 --> 4877.60] his playing -[4877.60 --> 4878.18] on the soccer -[4878.18 --> 4879.98] pitch would be -[4879.98 --> 4880.64] to try and earn -[4880.64 --> 4880.84] it. -[4881.42 --> 4882.18] To try and gain -[4882.18 --> 4882.72] my love. -[4883.12 --> 4883.90] And the weight -[4883.90 --> 4884.94] of that would -[4884.94 --> 4885.88] crush him -[4885.88 --> 4887.30] and his joy -[4887.30 --> 4887.80] for the game. -[4890.14 --> 4891.06] But because he -[4891.06 --> 4891.76] already knows -[4891.76 --> 4892.88] I love him -[4892.88 --> 4894.00] and he's living -[4894.00 --> 4894.58] and playing -[4894.58 --> 4895.40] in the security -[4895.40 --> 4896.66] of that love, -[4896.76 --> 4897.50] he can go on -[4897.50 --> 4898.06] to that soccer -[4898.06 --> 4899.04] pitch and try -[4899.04 --> 4899.78] his absolute -[4899.78 --> 4900.18] hardest. -[4900.50 --> 4901.00] He can try -[4901.00 --> 4901.84] his best to -[4901.84 --> 4902.40] please me, -[4902.54 --> 4903.18] to make me -[4903.18 --> 4903.52] happy. -[4904.56 --> 4905.26] That's a goal -[4905.26 --> 4905.64] for him. -[4905.78 --> 4906.66] Not to earn -[4906.66 --> 4907.38] my love, -[4907.50 --> 4908.32] but because -[4908.32 --> 4910.40] of my love. -[4910.40 --> 4912.92] That's why -[4912.92 --> 4913.22] we live -[4913.22 --> 4913.74] sacrificial -[4913.74 --> 4914.24] lives to -[4914.24 --> 4914.50] God. -[4915.72 --> 4916.62] If our -[4916.62 --> 4917.40] earthly fathers -[4917.40 --> 4917.94] live and -[4917.94 --> 4918.38] love in -[4918.38 --> 4918.78] that way, -[4918.88 --> 4919.30] how much -[4919.30 --> 4920.06] more will -[4920.06 --> 4920.54] our heavenly -[4920.54 --> 4921.70] father live -[4921.70 --> 4922.28] and love -[4922.28 --> 4923.32] in that way? -[4923.72 --> 4924.50] Because of -[4924.50 --> 4925.20] his great -[4925.20 --> 4925.96] love for -[4925.96 --> 4926.40] us, -[4926.82 --> 4927.56] the only -[4927.56 --> 4928.60] logical -[4928.60 --> 4929.78] response -[4929.78 --> 4930.76] to -[4930.76 --> 4931.88] God -[4931.88 --> 4933.70] is to -[4933.70 --> 4934.22] offer our -[4934.22 --> 4935.10] lives as -[4935.10 --> 4935.54] living -[4935.54 --> 4936.86] sacrifices -[4936.86 --> 4937.82] of worship -[4937.82 --> 4938.86] for him. -[4939.38 --> 4940.02] Let's pray -[4940.02 --> 4940.34] together. -[4940.40 --> 4945.58] holy, -[4946.10 --> 4946.90] holy -[4946.90 --> 4947.90] God, -[4948.74 --> 4951.26] open our -[4951.26 --> 4951.94] eyes to -[4951.94 --> 4953.38] the majesty -[4953.38 --> 4954.00] and the -[4954.00 --> 4954.78] beauty of -[4954.78 --> 4955.38] your mercy -[4955.38 --> 4956.18] once again -[4956.18 --> 4956.58] today. -[4957.46 --> 4958.40] Open our -[4958.40 --> 4959.28] eyes to -[4959.28 --> 4960.86] the amazing -[4960.86 --> 4962.10] grace that -[4962.10 --> 4962.58] you offer. -[4963.76 --> 4964.58] Open our -[4964.58 --> 4965.60] ears to -[4965.60 --> 4966.20] hear it so -[4966.20 --> 4966.42] that we -[4966.42 --> 4966.74] might be -[4966.74 --> 4967.54] transformed in -[4967.54 --> 4968.04] the renewing -[4968.04 --> 4968.34] of our -[4968.34 --> 4969.16] minds and -[4969.16 --> 4969.78] open our -[4969.78 --> 4970.72] imaginations -[4970.72 --> 4971.34] now to -[4971.34 --> 4971.96] see it -[4971.96 --> 4972.52] as we -[4972.52 --> 4973.04] come to -[4973.04 --> 4973.52] the table -[4973.52 --> 4974.78] and so -[4974.78 --> 4975.84] transform this -[4975.84 --> 4976.50] bread and -[4976.50 --> 4977.26] this juice -[4977.26 --> 4978.44] into the -[4978.44 --> 4979.26] blood of -[4979.26 --> 4980.16] Jesus Christ. -[4980.16 --> 4981.48] Be present -[4981.48 --> 4982.42] here among -[4982.42 --> 4983.14] us, we -[4983.14 --> 4983.74] pray God, -[4983.84 --> 4984.28] by your -[4984.28 --> 4985.00] Holy Spirit -[4985.00 --> 4986.36] so that we -[4986.36 --> 4987.36] may be -[4987.36 --> 4988.24] filled -[4988.24 --> 4990.24] to overflowing -[4990.24 --> 4990.26] to overflowing -[4990.26 --> 4991.24] with your -[4991.24 --> 4991.58] love. -[4993.04 --> 4993.72] And so -[4993.72 --> 4994.34] that because -[4994.34 --> 4994.76] of your -[4994.76 --> 4995.32] great love -[4995.32 --> 4995.80] for us, -[4995.90 --> 4996.26] we might -[4996.26 --> 4997.52] go nourished -[4997.52 --> 4998.60] and strengthened -[4998.60 --> 4999.50] as living -[4999.50 --> 5000.26] sacrifices -[5000.26 --> 5001.28] into the -[5001.28 --> 5001.70] everyday -[5001.70 --> 5002.70] ordinary -[5002.70 --> 5003.72] and extraordinary -[5003.72 --> 5004.68] circumstances -[5004.68 --> 5005.28] of life -[5005.28 --> 5005.86] and faith. -[5005.86 --> 5009.50] trusting -[5009.50 --> 5011.34] in who -[5011.34 --> 5011.86] you are -[5011.86 --> 5014.20] and who -[5014.20 --> 5015.22] we are -[5015.22 --> 5016.02] because -[5016.02 --> 5017.06] of who -[5017.06 --> 5017.56] you are. -[5018.00 --> 5018.68] In Jesus' -[5018.84 --> 5019.16] name we -[5019.16 --> 5019.40] pray. -[5020.20 --> 5020.62] Amen. -[5020.62 --> 5020.72] Amen. -[5020.72 --> 5035.08] As we -[5035.08 --> 5036.14] come to -[5036.14 --> 5036.94] the table -[5036.94 --> 5037.64] together, -[5038.30 --> 5038.90] we come -[5038.90 --> 5039.48] as a -[5039.48 --> 5040.10] church family -[5040.10 --> 5040.86] invited by -[5040.86 --> 5041.40] our Lord -[5041.40 --> 5042.36] to experience -[5042.36 --> 5043.72] him here. -[5043.82 --> 5044.40] As an act -[5044.40 --> 5045.02] of worship, -[5045.24 --> 5045.84] there are -[5045.84 --> 5047.16] steps and -[5047.16 --> 5047.74] liturgy -[5047.74 --> 5048.18] that we -[5048.18 --> 5048.92] will follow -[5048.92 --> 5049.30] and I -[5049.30 --> 5049.88] invite you -[5049.88 --> 5050.46] to speak -[5050.46 --> 5051.80] those words -[5051.80 --> 5052.24] as they -[5052.24 --> 5055.22] appear behind -[5055.22 --> 5055.48] me. -[5055.88 --> 5056.36] Lift up -[5056.36 --> 5056.84] your hearts. -[5059.18 --> 5059.88] Let us -[5059.88 --> 5060.52] give thanks -[5060.52 --> 5060.86] to the -[5060.86 --> 5061.34] Lord our -[5061.34 --> 5061.70] God. -[5064.80 --> 5065.34] Let's -[5065.34 --> 5065.54] pray. -[5067.48 --> 5068.46] With joy -[5068.46 --> 5069.52] we praise -[5069.52 --> 5069.92] you, -[5070.16 --> 5070.42] gracious -[5070.42 --> 5070.88] God, -[5071.24 --> 5071.72] for you -[5071.72 --> 5072.36] have created -[5072.36 --> 5072.98] heaven and -[5072.98 --> 5073.26] earth. -[5073.60 --> 5073.76] You've -[5073.76 --> 5074.18] made us -[5074.18 --> 5074.50] in your -[5074.50 --> 5074.94] image and -[5074.94 --> 5075.22] you have -[5075.22 --> 5075.94] kept covenant -[5075.94 --> 5076.40] with us -[5076.40 --> 5077.60] even when -[5077.60 --> 5078.16] we fell -[5078.16 --> 5078.76] into sin. -[5080.46 --> 5081.04] We give -[5081.04 --> 5081.60] you thanks -[5081.60 --> 5082.22] for Jesus -[5082.22 --> 5082.72] Christ, -[5082.94 --> 5083.38] who by -[5083.38 --> 5084.02] his life, -[5084.36 --> 5084.58] death, -[5084.70 --> 5085.28] and resurrection -[5085.28 --> 5086.00] opened to -[5086.00 --> 5086.50] us the -[5086.50 --> 5087.38] way of -[5087.38 --> 5087.98] everlasting -[5087.98 --> 5088.92] life. -[5089.38 --> 5089.70] Amen. -[5091.78 --> 5092.38] Our -[5092.38 --> 5092.92] Lord Jesus, -[5093.36 --> 5094.60] before he -[5094.60 --> 5095.02] suffered, -[5095.26 --> 5095.92] gave us -[5095.92 --> 5096.88] this memorial -[5096.88 --> 5098.22] of his -[5098.22 --> 5098.84] sacrifice -[5098.84 --> 5099.46] until he -[5099.46 --> 5100.00] comes again. -[5100.76 --> 5101.26] And the -[5101.26 --> 5101.82] Lord Jesus, -[5102.08 --> 5102.58] on the night -[5102.58 --> 5103.06] that he was -[5103.06 --> 5103.46] betrayed, -[5103.74 --> 5104.32] took bread. -[5105.06 --> 5105.54] And when he -[5105.54 --> 5105.86] had given -[5105.86 --> 5106.42] thanks, -[5106.52 --> 5107.00] he broke -[5107.00 --> 5107.42] it and -[5107.42 --> 5107.68] said, -[5108.08 --> 5108.84] this is -[5108.84 --> 5109.64] my body -[5109.64 --> 5110.46] which is -[5110.46 --> 5110.98] for you. -[5111.90 --> 5112.72] Do this -[5112.72 --> 5113.62] in remembrance -[5113.62 --> 5114.86] of me. -[5116.08 --> 5117.00] And in -[5117.00 --> 5117.68] the same -[5117.68 --> 5118.12] way, -[5118.28 --> 5118.88] he took -[5118.88 --> 5119.40] the cup -[5119.40 --> 5120.46] after supper -[5120.46 --> 5120.88] saying, -[5121.34 --> 5122.00] this cup -[5122.00 --> 5122.58] is the -[5122.58 --> 5123.18] new covenant -[5123.18 --> 5124.02] in my -[5124.02 --> 5124.46] blood. -[5125.72 --> 5126.40] Do this -[5126.40 --> 5127.16] in remembrance -[5127.16 --> 5127.92] of me. -[5129.26 --> 5130.14] For whenever -[5130.14 --> 5131.14] we eat -[5131.14 --> 5132.10] this bread -[5132.10 --> 5132.76] and drink -[5132.76 --> 5133.76] this cup, -[5133.96 --> 5134.60] we proclaim -[5134.60 --> 5135.22] the Lord's -[5135.22 --> 5136.12] death until -[5136.12 --> 5137.08] he comes -[5137.08 --> 5137.42] again. -[5138.36 --> 5139.10] This is -[5139.10 --> 5139.70] the mystery -[5139.70 --> 5140.22] of our -[5140.22 --> 5140.58] faith. -[5142.04 --> 5142.46] Your -[5142.46 --> 5142.82] death, -[5142.98 --> 5143.56] Christ, -[5143.74 --> 5144.38] we proclaim. -[5145.14 --> 5145.46] Your -[5145.46 --> 5146.02] resurrection, -[5146.46 --> 5147.02] we affirm -[5147.02 --> 5147.66] with joy. -[5148.40 --> 5148.66] Your -[5148.66 --> 5149.06] coming, -[5149.28 --> 5149.76] we await -[5149.76 --> 5150.38] with hope. -[5151.16 --> 5151.84] Glory be -[5151.84 --> 5152.44] to you, -[5152.60 --> 5153.18] Lord Jesus. -[5155.18 --> 5155.82] Church -[5155.82 --> 5156.14] family, -[5156.26 --> 5156.62] the Lord -[5156.62 --> 5157.68] has prepared -[5157.68 --> 5158.62] his table -[5158.62 --> 5159.24] for all -[5159.24 --> 5159.80] who love -[5159.80 --> 5160.72] him and -[5160.72 --> 5161.30] trust in -[5161.30 --> 5162.04] him alone -[5162.04 --> 5162.76] for their -[5162.76 --> 5163.20] salvation. -[5163.74 --> 5164.04] And so -[5164.04 --> 5164.58] come to -[5164.58 --> 5165.20] this table, -[5165.60 --> 5166.00] you who -[5166.00 --> 5166.62] have much -[5166.62 --> 5167.24] faith and -[5167.24 --> 5167.60] you who -[5167.60 --> 5167.98] would like -[5167.98 --> 5168.30] to have -[5168.30 --> 5168.64] more. -[5169.30 --> 5169.84] Come to -[5169.84 --> 5170.34] this table, -[5170.46 --> 5170.86] you who -[5170.86 --> 5171.38] have been -[5171.38 --> 5171.96] to this -[5171.96 --> 5172.48] sacrament -[5172.48 --> 5173.54] often and -[5173.54 --> 5173.96] you who -[5173.96 --> 5174.32] have not -[5174.32 --> 5174.74] been for -[5174.74 --> 5175.04] a long -[5175.04 --> 5175.36] time. -[5176.12 --> 5176.66] Come to -[5176.66 --> 5177.20] this table, -[5177.36 --> 5177.72] you who -[5177.72 --> 5178.38] have tried -[5178.38 --> 5179.08] to follow -[5179.08 --> 5180.02] Jesus and -[5180.02 --> 5180.48] you who -[5180.48 --> 5181.16] have failed. -[5181.62 --> 5182.10] Come to -[5182.10 --> 5182.54] this table -[5182.54 --> 5183.30] because Jesus -[5183.30 --> 5184.02] is raised -[5184.02 --> 5184.70] and here -[5184.70 --> 5185.54] you are -[5185.54 --> 5186.30] in good -[5186.30 --> 5186.92] company. -[5187.70 --> 5188.26] Come to -[5188.26 --> 5188.70] this table -[5188.70 --> 5189.10] if you are -[5189.10 --> 5189.62] present with -[5189.62 --> 5190.64] us or if -[5190.64 --> 5191.62] you are at -[5191.62 --> 5192.12] home because -[5192.12 --> 5192.82] it is Christ -[5192.82 --> 5194.02] who invites us -[5194.02 --> 5194.70] here. -[5195.34 --> 5195.78] The gifts -[5195.78 --> 5196.32] of God -[5196.32 --> 5197.20] for the -[5197.20 --> 5198.06] people of -[5198.06 --> 5198.34] God. -[5200.08 --> 5200.68] If you are -[5200.68 --> 5200.98] a guest -[5200.98 --> 5201.54] with us, -[5201.90 --> 5202.48] how we -[5202.48 --> 5203.70] celebrate this -[5203.70 --> 5204.62] meal is by -[5204.62 --> 5205.52] coming forward -[5205.52 --> 5206.44] in groups -[5206.44 --> 5207.56] and then -[5207.56 --> 5208.18] gathering in -[5208.18 --> 5208.64] a circle -[5208.64 --> 5209.16] and then -[5209.16 --> 5210.34] passing the -[5210.34 --> 5211.14] bread to -[5211.14 --> 5211.78] the person -[5211.78 --> 5212.52] next to you -[5212.52 --> 5213.12] saying the -[5213.12 --> 5213.56] body of -[5213.56 --> 5214.16] Christ given -[5214.16 --> 5214.62] for you -[5214.62 --> 5215.00] and then -[5215.00 --> 5215.62] after we -[5215.62 --> 5216.58] partake, -[5216.72 --> 5217.16] you pass -[5217.16 --> 5217.94] the juice -[5217.94 --> 5218.46] saying the -[5218.46 --> 5218.96] blood of -[5218.96 --> 5220.04] Christ shed -[5220.04 --> 5220.46] for you. -[5220.46 --> 5221.36] There will -[5221.36 --> 5221.88] be elders -[5221.88 --> 5222.58] who will -[5222.58 --> 5223.56] help indicate -[5223.56 --> 5224.06] when it is -[5224.06 --> 5224.58] your time -[5224.58 --> 5225.06] to come -[5225.06 --> 5225.82] to the -[5225.82 --> 5226.08] front. -[5226.90 --> 5227.50] If you -[5227.50 --> 5228.16] are unable -[5228.16 --> 5228.74] to come -[5228.74 --> 5229.08] to the -[5229.08 --> 5229.54] front for -[5229.54 --> 5229.84] whatever -[5229.84 --> 5230.90] reason but -[5230.90 --> 5231.30] would like -[5231.30 --> 5232.06] to receive -[5232.06 --> 5232.66] the supper, -[5232.84 --> 5233.50] please indicate -[5233.50 --> 5234.10] that to -[5234.10 --> 5235.14] the ushering -[5235.14 --> 5235.78] elders and -[5235.78 --> 5236.28] they will -[5236.28 --> 5237.32] serve you -[5237.32 --> 5237.84] in your -[5237.84 --> 5238.60] seat where -[5238.60 --> 5238.98] you are. -[5239.86 --> 5240.38] Additionally, -[5241.60 --> 5242.22] if you -[5242.22 --> 5243.04] in lieu of -[5243.04 --> 5243.62] coming up -[5243.62 --> 5244.14] or before -[5244.14 --> 5244.76] coming up -[5244.76 --> 5245.24] or after -[5245.24 --> 5245.76] coming up -[5245.76 --> 5246.20] at any -[5246.20 --> 5246.80] point as -[5246.80 --> 5247.10] we are -[5247.10 --> 5247.66] working through -[5247.66 --> 5247.88] this, -[5247.96 --> 5248.18] if you -[5248.18 --> 5248.52] would like -[5248.52 --> 5248.98] to receive -[5248.98 --> 5249.50] prayer, -[5249.50 --> 5250.26] there will -[5250.26 --> 5250.80] be people -[5250.80 --> 5251.70] available at -[5251.70 --> 5252.14] the back -[5252.14 --> 5252.66] in the -[5252.66 --> 5253.30] foyer with -[5253.30 --> 5253.82] yellow name -[5253.82 --> 5254.42] cards on. -[5254.72 --> 5255.00] They'd love -[5255.00 --> 5255.32] to meet -[5255.32 --> 5255.82] you and -[5255.82 --> 5256.14] to pray -[5256.14 --> 5256.58] with you -[5256.58 --> 5257.14] as we -[5257.14 --> 5257.86] go through -[5257.86 --> 5259.00] this together. -[5259.96 --> 5260.56] At this -[5260.56 --> 5260.76] point, -[5260.84 --> 5261.04] I'm going -[5261.04 --> 5261.46] to invite -[5261.46 --> 5262.38] the first -[5262.38 --> 5262.74] group to -[5262.74 --> 5263.08] come up -[5263.08 --> 5263.50] which will -[5263.50 --> 5264.12] be the -[5264.12 --> 5264.40] worship -[5264.40 --> 5264.92] leaders and -[5264.92 --> 5265.28] the elders -[5265.28 --> 5265.84] and those -[5265.84 --> 5266.18] who will -[5266.18 --> 5266.92] help us -[5266.92 --> 5267.74] move through -[5267.74 --> 5268.46] this time -[5268.46 --> 5268.86] together. -[5269.50 --> 5270.18] After we -[5270.18 --> 5270.98] serve them, -[5271.34 --> 5271.78] they will -[5271.78 --> 5272.62] lead us -[5272.62 --> 5273.36] in song -[5273.36 --> 5273.96] as you -[5273.96 --> 5274.60] are indicated -[5274.60 --> 5275.34] when to -[5275.34 --> 5275.90] approach -[5275.90 --> 5276.26] together. -[5276.92 --> 5277.26] Come on -[5277.26 --> 5277.60] up to the -[5277.60 --> 5277.76] front. -[5279.50 --> 5306.48] body of -[5306.48 --> 5306.74] Christ -[5306.74 --> 5307.30] given for -[5307.30 --> 5307.48] you. -[5307.48 --> 5311.68] body of -[5311.68 --> 5311.92] Christ -[5311.92 --> 5312.36] given for -[5312.36 --> 5312.56] you. -[5322.24 --> 5322.82] Body of -[5322.82 --> 5323.06] Christ -[5323.06 --> 5323.44] given for -[5323.44 --> 5323.64] you. -[5323.64 --> 5326.26] body of -[5326.26 --> 5326.48] Christ -[5326.48 --> 5326.90] given for -[5326.90 --> 5327.06] you. -[5327.06 --> 5353.46] eat and remember -[5357.06 --> 5367.44] blood of Christ shed for you -[5367.44 --> 5372.52] blood of Christ shed for you -[5372.52 --> 5382.32] blood of Christ shed for you -[5382.32 --> 5384.80] the blood of Christ shed for you. -[5409.28 --> 5410.04] Nice work. -[5412.32 --> 5421.38] Drink and believe. -[5421.38 --> 5451.36] Thank you. -[5451.38 --> 5481.36] Thank you. -[5481.38 --> 5483.38] Thank you. -[5511.38 --> 5513.38] Thank you. -[5513.38 --> 5515.38] Thank you. -[5515.38 --> 5517.38] Thank you. -[5517.38 --> 5519.38] Thank you. -[5519.38 --> 5521.38] Thank you. -[5521.38 --> 5523.38] Thank you. -[5523.38 --> 5525.38] Thank you. -[5525.38 --> 5527.38] Thank you. -[5527.38 --> 5529.38] Thank you. -[5529.38 --> 5531.38] Thank you. -[5531.38 --> 5533.38] Thank you. -[5533.38 --> 5535.38] Thank you. -[5535.38 --> 5537.38] Thank you. -[5537.38 --> 5539.38] Thank you. -[5539.38 --> 5541.38] Thank you. -[5541.38 --> 5543.38] Thank you. -[5543.38 --> 5545.38] Thank you. -[5545.38 --> 5547.38] Thank you. -[5547.38 --> 5549.38] Thank you. -[5549.38 --> 5551.38] Thank you. -[5551.38 --> 5553.38] Thank you. -[5553.38 --> 5555.38] Thank you. -[5555.38 --> 5557.38] Thank you. -[5557.38 --> 5559.38] Thank you. -[5559.38 --> 5561.38] Thank you. -[5561.38 --> 5563.38] Thank you. -[5563.38 --> 5565.38] Thank you. -[5565.38 --> 5567.38] Thank you. -[5567.38 --> 5569.38] Thank you. -[5569.38 --> 5571.38] Thank you. -[5571.38 --> 5573.38] Thank you. -[5573.38 --> 5575.38] Thank you. -[5575.38 --> 5577.38] Thank you. -[5577.38 --> 5579.38] Thank you. -[5579.38 --> 5581.38] Thank you. -[5585.38 --> 5587.38] Thank you. -[5587.38 --> 5589.38] Thank you. -[5589.38 --> 5591.38] Thanks. -[5591.38 --> 5599.46] How beautiful is the body of Christ. -[5599.46 --> 5611.46] As He laid down His mind, He offered His sacrifice. -[5611.46 --> 5623.58] He laid just as He died, willing to pay the price. -[5623.58 --> 5630.70] Willing to pay the price. -[5630.70 --> 5639.86] How beautiful the radiant bride, -[5639.86 --> 5646.36] who waits for her groom with the light in her eyes. -[5646.36 --> 5653.06] How beautiful the numbers are set, -[5653.06 --> 5659.36] the future through life so that others remain. -[5659.36 --> 5667.86] How beautiful, how beautiful it is. -[5667.86 --> 5682.36] How beautiful is the body of Christ. -[5682.36 --> 5690.86] How beautiful the radiant bride, -[5690.86 --> 5696.86] the sound of the news and the love of the earth. -[5696.86 --> 5703.36] How beautiful the radiant bride, -[5703.36 --> 5707.36] the light and the rain, -[5707.36 --> 5710.86] the sound of the earth. -[5710.86 --> 5715.86] How beautiful, how beautiful, -[5715.86 --> 5721.86] how beautiful, how beautiful, -[5721.86 --> 5733.86] how beautiful is the body of Christ. -[5733.86 --> 5736.86] How beautiful the radiant bride, -[5736.86 --> 5740.36] how beautiful, how beautiful, -[5740.36 --> 5742.36] how beautiful, how beautiful, -[5742.36 --> 5744.36] how beautiful. -[5744.36 --> 5746.36] Amen. -[5774.36 --> 5782.96] Jesus to redeem your loss -[5782.96 --> 5787.52] Hades upon the sinful cross -[5787.52 --> 5792.20] Jesus whom I do bear -[5792.20 --> 5796.82] I shall praise and justice bear -[5796.82 --> 5800.50] Everything in the earth -[5800.50 --> 5806.24] Finishing your mind of love -[5806.24 --> 5810.72] Hallelujah, Hallelujah -[5810.72 --> 5815.34] In the fall for sinners days -[5815.34 --> 5819.94] Hallelujah, Hallelujah -[5819.94 --> 5823.90] Jesus Christ, we praise you -[5823.90 --> 5831.98] A Christ has dared to drink -[5831.98 --> 5836.56] Steeped in all the cup of pain -[5836.56 --> 5840.64] And where tender body bear -[5840.64 --> 5845.64] Farts and hills and piercings fear -[5845.64 --> 5850.98] Stiff for us the water flood -[5850.98 --> 5855.58] Weak the song of your sark and guide -[5855.58 --> 5860.32] Turn to all attesting eyes -[5860.32 --> 5865.24] For the finish of the night -[5865.24 --> 5868.98] Hallelujah, Hallelujah -[5868.98 --> 5874.20] In the night for sin is slain -[5874.20 --> 5878.94] Hallelujah, Hallelujah -[5878.94 --> 5882.68] Jesus Christ, we praise you -[5882.68 --> 5890.86] Holy Jesus grant us grace -[5890.86 --> 5895.58] In that sacrifice to place -[5895.58 --> 5900.42] All our trust for life renewed -[5900.42 --> 5905.20] Pardon sin and promise good -[5905.20 --> 5910.24] Grant us grace to sing your praise -[5910.24 --> 5914.96] And your crown through endless days -[5914.96 --> 5919.40] And the will for sons of God -[5919.40 --> 5924.76] Blessing God and glory by you -[5924.76 --> 5928.42] Hallelujah, Hallelujah -[5928.42 --> 5938.16] Jesus Christ, we praise you -[5938.16 --> 5939.34] Hallelujah, Hallelujah -[5939.34 --> 5942.04] Jesus Christ, we praise you -[5942.04 --> 5947.76] Hallelujah, Hallelujah -[5947.76 --> 5952.32] Rambo God for sinners slain -[5952.32 --> 5956.14] Hallelujah, Hallelujah -[5956.14 --> 5962.56] Jesus Christ, we praise your name. -[5986.14 --> 6016.12] Jesus Christ, we praise your name. -[6016.14 --> 6046.12] Jesus Christ, we praise your name. -[6046.14 --> 6053.14] Jesus Christ, we praise your name. -[6053.14 --> 6068.14] Jesus Christ, we praise your name. -[6068.14 --> 6070.14] wonderful -[6098.14 --> 6100.14] oh -[6128.14 --> 6130.14] oh -[6158.14 --> 6165.40] center of -[6165.40 --> 6167.50] old history -[6167.50 --> 6170.22] the cross -[6170.22 --> 6173.14] and resurrection -[6173.14 --> 6176.14] humiliation -[6177.36 --> 6179.70] lifted me -[6179.70 --> 6181.52] into -[6181.52 --> 6184.14] a new creation -[6184.98 --> 6188.12] I am -[6188.12 --> 6190.12] a new creation -[6191.04 --> 6196.50] my life -[6196.50 --> 6198.12] now yielded -[6198.12 --> 6200.12] to my King -[6200.12 --> 6202.36] my will -[6202.36 --> 6203.62] to Him -[6203.62 --> 6204.12] surrender -[6205.44 --> 6208.12] unbroken -[6208.64 --> 6209.66] open -[6209.66 --> 6212.36] at your feet -[6212.36 --> 6214.12] your presence -[6214.64 --> 6216.12] is a treasure -[6216.12 --> 6220.12] is still -[6220.12 --> 6222.12] alone my treasure -[6223.12 --> 6226.12] holy -[6226.12 --> 6228.12] worthy -[6228.12 --> 6232.12] you -[6232.12 --> 6234.12] you -[6234.12 --> 6236.12] you -[6236.12 --> 6238.12] you -[6238.12 --> 6239.12] know -[6239.12 --> 6240.12] and -[6240.12 --> 6242.12] glory -[6242.12 --> 6244.12] worthy -[6244.12 --> 6246.12] we -[6246.12 --> 6250.12] sing -[6250.12 --> 6252.12] amen -[6252.12 --> 6254.12] amen -[6254.12 --> 6255.12] amen -[6255.12 --> 6256.12] amen -[6256.12 --> 6258.12] amen -[6258.12 --> 6260.12] amen -[6260.12 --> 6262.12] may -[6262.12 --> 6264.12] amen -[6264.12 --> 6268.12] amen -[6268.12 --> 6269.12] and -[6269.12 --> 6270.12] amen -[6270.12 --> 6272.12] amen -[6272.12 --> 6274.12] amen -[6274.12 --> 6281.16] On the throne, He plays an adoration. -[6283.02 --> 6288.00] The years of heaven are overgrown. -[6288.00 --> 6293.10] The young of Savior shatter. -[6294.60 --> 6299.60] For Christ our King, He reigns alone. -[6300.56 --> 6305.08] Forever and forever others -[6305.08 --> 6311.44] Forever and forever others -[6315.52 --> 6321.60] Now when every -[6321.60 --> 6329.56] You have no balance -[6329.56 --> 6334.56] Worthy -[6334.56 --> 6341.56] We sing a memory -[6341.56 --> 6349.56] Worthy -[6349.56 --> 6354.56] You have known -[6354.56 --> 6359.56] Glory -[6359.56 --> 6364.56] Worthy -[6364.56 --> 6370.56] We sing a memory -[6374.56 --> 6380.56] The center of all history -[6380.56 --> 6386.56] Your cross and resurrection -[6386.56 --> 6389.56] Oh -[6389.56 --> 6394.56] For the minute -[6394.56 --> 6401.56] Or the last组 -[6401.56 --> 6406.56] With prosperity -[6406.56 --> 6418.16] Let your sorrows go apart -[6418.16 --> 6424.36] By his own betrayed -[6424.36 --> 6431.66] The sin and the love of heart -[6431.66 --> 6437.56] Has been on Jesus' name -[6437.56 --> 6448.66] Silent as he stood up here -[6448.66 --> 6454.66] He's in darkness gone -[6454.66 --> 6461.76] Now we'll turn up on his veil -[6461.76 --> 6466.66] He's so proud of all -[6466.66 --> 6474.26] Home and love and cross my salvation -[6474.26 --> 6480.66] Where your love poured out over me -[6480.66 --> 6484.66] Now my soul cries out -[6484.66 --> 6487.66] Hallelujah -[6487.66 --> 6493.66] Praise and honor unto me -[6493.66 --> 6503.66] Send, O earth and God's own Son -[6503.66 --> 6510.66] To precious and redeem -[6510.66 --> 6516.66] And welcome some of the very ones -[6516.66 --> 6522.66] Who hail them to a party -[6522.66 --> 6528.66] Who have come in cross for salvation -[6528.66 --> 6535.66] Where your love poured out over me -[6535.66 --> 6539.66] Now my soul cries out -[6539.66 --> 6541.66] Hallelujah -[6541.66 --> 6547.66] Praise and honor unto me -[6547.66 --> 6554.66] Now my debt is paid -[6554.66 --> 6558.66] It is paid in full -[6558.66 --> 6562.66] By the precious blood -[6562.66 --> 6565.66] That my Jesus still -[6565.66 --> 6568.66] Now my dursa sing -[6568.66 --> 6571.66] Has no hold on me -[6571.66 --> 6575.66] When the sun sets free -[6575.66 --> 6578.66] All is free in me -[6578.66 --> 6581.66] Now my debt is paid -[6581.66 --> 6584.66] It is paid in full -[6584.66 --> 6588.66] By the precious blood -[6588.66 --> 6591.66] That my Jesus still -[6591.66 --> 6594.66] Now the curse of sin -[6594.66 --> 6597.66] Has no hold on me -[6597.66 --> 6600.66] For the sun sets free -[6600.66 --> 6604.66] All is free in me -[6604.66 --> 6607.66] Now my love in cross -[6607.66 --> 6610.66] Is salvation -[6610.66 --> 6616.66] Where your love poured out over me -[6616.66 --> 6619.66] Now my soul cries out -[6619.66 --> 6620.66] Hallelujah -[6620.66 --> 6622.66] Praise and honor unto me -[6622.66 --> 6623.66] Hallelujah -[6623.66 --> 6632.66] Praise and honor unto thee -[6632.66 --> 6639.66] See the stone is rolled away -[6639.66 --> 6645.66] Behold the empty tomb -[6645.66 --> 6649.66] Hallelujah -[6649.66 --> 6650.66] Hallelujah -[6650.66 --> 6652.66] Hallelujah -[6652.66 --> 6653.66] Be praise -[6653.66 --> 6654.66] Praise and honor unto me -[6654.66 --> 6655.66] Hallelujah -[6655.66 --> 6657.66] Be praise -[6657.66 --> 6658.66] His face -[6658.66 --> 6659.66] His face -[6659.66 --> 6660.66] And throne unto me -[6660.66 --> 6661.66] Oh my God -[6661.66 --> 6662.66] He has no home -[6662.66 --> 6664.66] For salvation -[6664.66 --> 6666.66] Where your love poured out over me -[6666.66 --> 6667.66] Hallelujah -[6667.66 --> 6668.66] Hallelujah -[6668.66 --> 6669.66] Hallelujah -[6669.66 --> 6670.66] Hallelujah -[6670.66 --> 6671.66] Praise and honor -[6671.66 --> 6672.66] Hallelujah -[6672.66 --> 6673.66] Hallelujah -[6673.66 --> 6674.66] Hallelujah -[6674.66 --> 6675.66] Hallelujah -[6675.66 --> 6676.66] Hallelujah -[6676.66 --> 6677.66] Hallelujah -[6677.66 --> 6683.06] Praise and honor unto me -[6683.06 --> 6690.62] Praise and honor unto me -[6690.62 --> 6703.74] It's fitting for me to tell you before you go -[6703.74 --> 6709.66] My wife Rachel again reminded me that even the song How Beautiful was sung at our wedding -[6709.66 --> 6713.38] And so today was an unexpected -[6713.38 --> 6717.72] Anniversary celebration for my family so thank you for being part of that -[6717.72 --> 6720.62] Your anniversary is in exactly three months -[6720.62 --> 6724.96] Oh see always someone watching up for me -[6724.96 --> 6728.70] If you would like to keep the celebration going -[6728.70 --> 6732.10] Please stick around after service for a time of fellowship together -[6732.10 --> 6738.82] And we can enjoy the communion of the saints just a little bit more today -[6738.82 --> 6745.40] Go with the blessing of our God who sends us on our way in the power of his name -[6745.40 --> 6749.16] God go before you to lead you -[6749.16 --> 6751.44] God go behind you to protect you -[6751.44 --> 6754.08] God go beneath you to support you -[6754.08 --> 6756.74] And God go beside you to befriend you -[6756.74 --> 6758.44] Do not be afraid -[6758.44 --> 6760.82] Let the blessing of God come upon you today -[6760.82 --> 6762.60] Do not be afraid -[6762.60 --> 6765.06] But go in peace -[6765.06 --> 6768.20] To offer your lives as living sacrifices -[6768.20 --> 6769.74] Amen -[6769.74 --> 6770.92] Amen -[6770.92 --> 6782.68] Amen -[6782.68 --> 6784.66] Amen -[6784.66 --> 6786.78] Amen -[6786.78 --> 6787.78] Amen. -[6816.78 --> 6818.78] Amen. -[6846.78 --> 6848.78] Amen. -[6876.78 --> 6878.78] Amen. -[6906.78 --> 6908.78] Amen. -[6936.78 --> 6938.78] Amen. -[6966.78 --> 6968.78] Amen. -[6996.78 --> 7023.78] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul, in my life and in death, to you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[7026.78 --> 7029.78] Amen. -[7056.78 --> 7057.78] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, July 20, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, July 20, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0ecd85b92074a462322391e4b0f41e2a1121a270..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, July 20, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,121 +0,0 @@ -• A person's stream-of-consciousness monologue is recorded, with them mentioning various unrelated thoughts and phrases. -• The recording transitions to a church worship service, led by Pastor Chris of Emanuel Church. -• Pastor Chris welcomes attendees and announces an opportunity for volunteers to lead the children's worship time during summer months. -• He invites the congregation to stand together in God's presence and offers a greeting from their God, citing scripture and invoking the Holy Spirit. -• The recording appears to capture some interactions between churchgoers as they greet one another. -• Praise and worship to God -• God's attributes: mighty, worthy, holy, powerful -• God as King and Prince of Peace -• Creation's response to God's greatness -• Questions about God's power and knowledge -• Jesus as Savior and Lord -• Reflection on Calvary and Christ's sacrifice -• Praise to God and Jesus -• Confession of sin -• Salvation and redemption through Jesus -• Baptism and profession of faith -• Authority and commission given to Jesus' followers -• Holy Scripture readings from Romans and other sources -• New life in Christ through baptism and death of old self -• Baptism as a sign and seal of God's promises -• Dave shares his personal testimony of struggling with faith, loss, and finding new life in Christianity through the church community -• A woman from the church approached him after a service and prayed for him, leading to an emotional breakthrough -• Dave experiences a series of "coincidences" that ultimately lead him to conclude God is trying to bring him back to faith. -• Baptisms celebrated -• Scripture references: Psalm 119, Philippians 4.13 -• Encouragement to continue reading Bible and searching for answers in scripture -• Support from community and family -• God's presence with them every step of the way -• Celebration of new life and relationship with Jesus Christ -• Introduction to questioning Dave -• Invitation for Dave to respond to questions -• Baptismal vows and renunciation of sin and evil -• Profession of faith in Jesus Christ -• Promise to accept spiritual guidance and seek unity, purity, and peace -• Reading from the Apostles' Creed -• Confirmation of belief in God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit -• Baptism of Emma Bell -• Questions for Dave regarding faith in God and responsibility towards his child's spiritual development -• Welcome and affirmation by Mackenzie of the Christian faith and commitment to serving with the church community -• Baptism of Ava -• Baptism and welcome of new church members, Dave and Mackenzie -• Invitation to church family to support the new members through love, encouragement, and teaching the gospel -• Gift-giving ceremony with elders presenting a gift and memento to the new members -• Laying hands on prayer for spiritual guidance and empowerment -• Worship service with singing of the song "Gratitude" and prayers of thanksgiving -• Offering collection for church budget and Open Doors Canada -• The Open Doors Canada ministry was mentioned, founded by Brother Andrew in 1955, which supports persecuted churches worldwide. -• Specific countries experiencing persecution were listed (North Korea, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Myanmar). -• Open Doors provides Bibles, resources, leader training, aid to victims of persecution, and a prayer watch. -• A specific prayer request was mentioned for a church in Middle Asia that had been kidnapped by militia and needed strength and courage to continue meeting. -• The congregation was encouraged to visit the Open Doors website to pray for persecuted churches daily. -• A passage of worship song lyrics was sung, expressing gratitude and surrender to God. -• The children's blessing took place, where kids came up front to receive a blessing from the church leaders. -• Praise and worship -• Intercessory prayer for individuals (Dave, Annabelle, Mackenzie, Ava, Pete and Doreen, Clem and Linda, Adrian and Sarah) -• Prayer for healing and strength (Doug's cancer, Tanya in hospice care) -• Prayer for marriages and relationships struggling -• Thanksgiving for new beginnings, anniversaries, rest and adventure during summer -• Prayer for safe travels and refreshing holidays -• Blessing and support of church ministries and leaders -• Praise and thanksgiving for Christ's church worldwide and persecuted believers -• Introduction to the summer series "Behold Your King" -• Importance of encountering Jesus, not just learning about him -• Discussion of the Holy Spirit's role in transforming lives through God's word -• Matthew 9 passage on Jesus' ministry and authority -• Critique of modern culture's emphasis on personal preference and individual autonomy -• Analysis of Charles Taylor's concept of "the age of authenticity" and its implications for authority and faith -• Discussion of the consequences of rejecting traditional authority, including increased anxiety and loneliness -• The human desire for a strong, compassionate leader who can calm anxiety and pain -• The kind of king that Jesus is, as described in Matthew's gospel -• Jesus' authority over disease, demons, death, and the kingdom of heaven breaking in through his actions -• Examples from Matthew 8 and chapter 9 of Jesus demonstrating his authority over illness and healing -• Jesus has authority over disease -• Jesus has authority over demons -• Jesus has authority over the natural world -• Jesus has authority to forgive sins -• Jesus has authority over death -• Jesus shares his authority with his disciples -• The kingdom of God is near and can be seen through Jesus' actions -• Authority of Jesus and how it relates to life's struggles -• Tension between believing in Jesus' authority and experiencing pain/brokenness -• Questions of faith and trust when prayers go unanswered -• Worship and acceptance, even when not understanding -• Duality of wanting a powerful God who can control all aspects of life vs. accepting reasons for hard things in life -• Quotes from Tim Keller on the need to accept a powerful God who may allow suffering -• Authority of Jesus Christ -• Tension between human expectations and God's actions -• Analogy in describing God -• Limitations of human language to describe God -• God as creator and beyond human understanding -• The reality that our life with God may not always make sense or be straightforward -• God's sovereignty and lack of obligation to explain himself -• Jesus as a better explanation than any other answer from God -• Jesus' sacrifice and authority to heal, protect, and raise the dead -• Understanding God's character changes one's relationship with him -• Prayer for perseverance, strength, and trust in God during trials and times of uncertainty -• The speaker reflects on a personal experience of beholding Jesus as king and being cleansed by him. -• The speaker asks the audience if they can behold Jesus as their king, encouraging them to seek a relationship with God. -• The importance of reading the Bible, listening to others who follow Jesus, and asking questions is emphasized. -• The speaker acknowledges that not everyone may be at the same level of understanding or faith and invites those who are struggling to talk to someone about it. -• Jesus' authority over various aspects of life is highlighted. -• Worshiping God with awe and praise -• Singing songs of worship in everyday life -• Praying for God's mission in the neighborhood and world -• Encouraging others to share their faith and be missionaries -• Recognizing that being a Christian means being sent to share Christ's anointing -• Inviting people to receive Jesus -• The devil hates moments of worship and prayer -• The mission of the church is to see Jesus worshiped, prayed to, and followed -• Prayer for God's presence and power in a specific moment -• A call to make the sanctuary space a sacred space where the kingdom of heaven breaks through -• Encouragement to proclaim and testify about Jesus' love and victory -• Praise and worship of Jesus Christ -• God's goodness, presence, and protection -• Legacy and purpose in life -• The importance of God's kingdom and reign -• Faith and trust in God -• God's love and provision (daily bread) -• Living water and satisfaction -• God's glory and praise -• Acknowledging Jesus as Lord and Savior \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, July 20, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, July 20, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 8f1649bb9510be45a5a13dfe0e1c49bbc117a83e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, July 20, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1998 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 14.00] I appreciate hearing what people are saying. -[14.00 --> 39.00] See those guys down by shoаются and непω he Tik glasi. -[39.00 --> 46.00] I've got every city, yes he did, so yes he can. -[46.00 --> 50.00] Oh, did he have deep to the neck? -[50.00 --> 52.00] Did he do it for me? -[52.00 --> 57.00] Yes he did, so yes he can. -[57.00 --> 63.00] Oh, yes he did, so yes he can. -[63.00 --> 68.00] Sometimes his voice is trying to tell me. -[68.00 --> 71.00] I'm going to eat sardines. -[98.00 --> 101.00] Did he do it for the neck? -[101.00 --> 103.00] Did he deliver me? -[103.00 --> 108.00] Yes he did, so yes he can. -[108.00 --> 114.00] Oh, yes he did, so yes he can. -[114.00 --> 120.00] I was out so many words, now I can't deny. -[120.00 --> 126.00] He's come through every single time. -[126.00 --> 131.00] From the beginning until the end. -[131.00 --> 136.00] He did, he will, he can. -[136.00 --> 141.00] Now I'm going to be so good. -[141.00 --> 144.00] Did he move every mountain? -[144.00 --> 146.00] Did he part every sea? -[146.00 --> 151.00] Yes he did, so yes he can. -[151.00 --> 155.00] Oh, did he do, did he do darkness? -[155.00 --> 158.00] Did he feel it for me? -[158.00 --> 161.00] Oh, God, I'm so sorry to love you. -[161.00 --> 164.00] Good morning. -[166.00 --> 168.00] Welcome to church. -[168.00 --> 172.00] A special welcome if you are a guest with us this morning. -[172.00 --> 178.00] My name is Chris and I have the distinct pleasure of being one of the pastors here at Emanuel Church. -[178.00 --> 182.00] We're really excited for today's worship service. -[182.00 --> 187.00] Part of our service today, we're going to have some baptism and new member welcome, -[187.00 --> 189.00] and so we are grateful to God for that. -[189.00 --> 195.00] If you are a guest here to celebrate with us in that, we're really excited that you are here as well. -[195.00 --> 202.00] Before we begin in earnest, and as we've got people filing in yet, just one announcement to make. -[202.00 --> 211.00] We are still looking for a couple volunteers to lead our children's worship time during the summer months. -[211.00 --> 217.00] And so during the summer months, preschool to kindergarten kids at some point in our worship head out, -[217.00 --> 219.00] and they have their own time together. -[219.00 --> 225.00] And we need three Sundays in August filled for teachers. -[225.00 --> 231.00] We do have a couple younger volunteers for those ones, but we could use a few more there as well. -[231.00 --> 236.00] So if you're interested in that, the sign-up sheet is going to be at the Connect booth following our service. -[236.00 --> 239.00] It's also in the e-bulletin if you get that. -[239.00 --> 242.00] You can click through the link there and sign up. -[242.00 --> 245.00] And so that's three Sundays in August. -[245.00 --> 247.00] I would really love to fill that out. -[247.00 --> 250.00] Hopefully even by the end of today. -[250.00 --> 251.00] As far as announcements go, that's it. -[251.00 --> 252.00] It's summertime. -[252.00 --> 255.00] So there's not a whole lot of others happening here. -[255.00 --> 262.00] So I'm going to invite you as you're able to stand that we can be ushered into God's presence together. -[262.00 --> 268.00] When we gather for worship, we know that God is among us because Jesus promised that his spirit would be here. -[268.00 --> 270.00] And we mark that presence. -[270.00 --> 275.00] We invite that presence by receiving the greeting of our God. -[275.00 --> 279.00] And so receive God's greeting as we gather in worship this morning. -[279.00 --> 287.00] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, -[287.00 --> 290.00] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[290.00 --> 291.00] Amen. -[291.00 --> 296.00] As God has welcomed us, I invite you to turn to those around you and welcome them in worship as well. -[296.00 --> 297.00] Yes. -[297.00 --> 298.00] Ma'am. -[298.00 --> 299.00] No. -[299.00 --> 300.00] Nice to meet you. -[300.00 --> 301.00] Nice to meet you. -[301.00 --> 302.00] How are you? -[302.00 --> 303.00] First you? -[303.00 --> 304.00] Good afternoon. -[304.00 --> 305.00] Yes. -[305.00 --> 306.00] Yes. -[306.00 --> 308.00] Hi, verycis. -[308.00 --> 309.00] Nice to meet you. -[309.00 --> 311.00] We'd like to see you. -[311.00 --> 312.00] Hi. -[312.00 --> 313.00] Nice to meet you. -[315.00 --> 316.00] Sorry, man. -[316.00 --> 317.00] Soon, I'm going to call in Adam. -[317.00 --> 319.00] You don't, thanks for having me Mom. -[320.00 --> 321.00] Piper. -[321.00 --> 322.00] Hi. -[323.00 --> 324.00] Hi, man. -[324.00 --> 326.00] Good morning. -[326.00 --> 328.00] Good morning. -[328.00 --> 330.00] Good morning. -[334.00 --> 336.00] People of God, -[336.00 --> 338.00] disciples of Christ, -[338.00 --> 340.00] we gather this morning to honor our King, -[340.00 --> 342.00] who walked on this earth as a man, -[342.00 --> 344.00] yet created the very ground his feet touched, -[344.00 --> 346.00] who is tempted by every sin, -[346.00 --> 348.00] yet remained sinless, who is tried -[348.00 --> 350.00] by the law, yet fulfilled it, -[350.00 --> 352.00] who died on the cross, yet called people -[352.00 --> 354.00] of graves and conquered death itself. -[354.00 --> 356.00] Lift up your praise to him. -[382.00 --> 392.00] You are holy, -[392.00 --> 394.00] you are holy, -[394.00 --> 396.00] you are mighty, -[396.00 --> 398.00] you are mighty, -[398.00 --> 400.00] you are worthy, -[400.00 --> 402.00] you are worthy, -[402.00 --> 404.00] worthy of grace, -[404.00 --> 406.00] worthy of grace, -[406.00 --> 408.00] I will follow, -[408.00 --> 410.00] I will follow, -[410.00 --> 412.00] I will listen, -[412.00 --> 414.00] I will listen, -[414.00 --> 416.00] I will love you, -[416.00 --> 418.00] I will love you, -[418.00 --> 420.00] all of my days, -[420.00 --> 422.00] all of my days, -[422.00 --> 426.00] I will sing to and worship the King, -[426.00 --> 428.00] you are mighty, -[428.00 --> 430.00] you are mighty God, -[430.00 --> 432.00] Lord of everything, -[432.00 --> 434.00] you are Emmanuel, -[434.00 --> 436.00] you are the great I Am, -[436.00 --> 438.00] you are the Prince of Peace, -[438.00 --> 440.00] who is the Lamb, -[440.00 --> 442.00] you are the living Lord, -[442.00 --> 444.00] you are my singing praise, -[444.00 --> 446.00] you will reign forever, -[446.00 --> 448.00] you are Ancient of Deans, -[448.00 --> 450.00] and all of my days, -[450.00 --> 452.00] I will sing the Lord, -[452.00 --> 454.00] you are the glory, -[454.00 --> 456.00] you are the Prince of Peace, -[456.00 --> 458.00] and I will live my life for you. -[458.00 --> 460.00] You are holy, -[460.00 --> 462.00] you are mighty, -[462.00 --> 466.00] you are worthy, -[466.00 --> 494.00] You are mighty. You are worthy. You are worthy. Worthy of praise. I will follow. I will listen. I will love you. I will love you. All of my days. -[494.00 --> 511.00] I will sing to you and worship the King who is worthy. I will love you. You are the glory. You are the power of God. You are the power of God. You are the power of God. -[511.00 --> 528.72] I will sing to you and worship the King who is worthy. I will love you. I will adore you. I will sing to you and worship the King who is worthy. You are my Prince of Peace. -[528.72 --> 540.72] And I will live my life for you. You are my Prince of Peace. And I will live my life for you. -[540.72 --> 551.14] I will come to you and worship the King who is worthy. I will sing to you and worship the King who is worthy. I will sing to you and worship the King who is worthy. You are the compt vere. I will sing to you and sing to you. You areatorio. You are the Lord. I will love you. You are holy. You are히 the Lord. I will sing to you and lift your -[551.14 --> 558.38] Po cose rende -[560.38 --> 563.72] Principle one -[565.12 --> 569.60] 兩週後 -[569.60 --> 577.70] Who has held the oceans in His hands? -[577.70 --> 582.92] Who has numbered every grain of sand? -[583.48 --> 588.20] Kings and nations tremble at His voice. -[588.62 --> 593.06] All creation rises to rejoice. -[593.06 --> 601.06] Behold our God, seated on His throne. -[601.06 --> 604.06] Come, let us adore Him. -[604.06 --> 611.06] Behold our King, nothing can compare. -[611.06 --> 617.06] Come, let us adore Him. -[623.06 --> 630.06] Who has given a castle to the Lord? -[630.06 --> 635.06] Who can question any of His words? -[635.06 --> 640.06] Who can teach the one who knows all things? -[640.06 --> 646.06] Who can gather all His wondrous deeds? -[646.06 --> 653.06] Behold our God, seated on His throne. -[653.06 --> 656.06] Come, let us adore Him. -[656.06 --> 663.06] Behold our King, nothing can compare. -[663.06 --> 669.06] Come, let us adore Him. -[669.06 --> 682.06] Who has held the gifts upon His hands? -[682.06 --> 687.06] Fearing all the guilt of sinful man. -[687.06 --> 692.06] God eternal, humble to the grave. -[692.06 --> 699.06] Jesus, Savior, written now to reign. -[699.06 --> 706.06] Behold our God, seated on His throne. -[706.06 --> 709.06] Come, let us adore Him. -[709.06 --> 716.06] Behold our King, nothing can compare. -[716.06 --> 718.06] Come, let us adore Him. -[718.06 --> 730.06] Come, let us adore Him. -[730.06 --> 760.04] Let your glory fill the earth -[760.06 --> 761.80] on your throne -[761.80 --> 765.40] Come let us adore him -[765.40 --> 769.52] Behold our King -[769.52 --> 772.06] Now he may compare -[772.06 --> 777.76] Come let us adore him -[777.76 --> 784.08] O praise the name -[784.08 --> 787.30] of the Lord our God -[787.30 --> 790.46] O praise his name -[790.46 --> 793.64] forevermore -[793.64 --> 796.60] For endless days -[796.60 --> 799.30] we will sing your praise -[799.82 --> 805.30] O Lord, O Lord our God -[805.30 --> 813.60] I cast my mind to Calvary -[813.60 --> 820.46] Where Jesus led and died for me -[820.46 --> 826.78] I see his wounds, his hands, his feet -[826.78 --> 833.08] My Savior on that cursed tree -[833.08 --> 841.90] His body bound and drenched in tears -[841.90 --> 847.78] They laid him down in juice as dew -[847.78 --> 853.78] The entrance sealed by heavy snow -[853.78 --> 859.78] Messiah still and all alone -[859.78 --> 866.86] O praise the name -[866.86 --> 869.94] of the Lord our God -[869.94 --> 873.00] O praise his name -[873.00 --> 876.08] forevermore -[876.08 --> 879.10] For endless days -[879.10 --> 882.22] we will sing your praise -[882.22 --> 888.22] O Lord, O Lord our God -[888.22 --> 890.22] O Lord our God -[890.22 --> 896.52] On the flame and rain of dawn -[896.52 --> 899.22] The sun of heaven -[899.22 --> 902.22] He rose again -[902.22 --> 905.22] O temple dead -[905.22 --> 908.22] Where is your seed -[908.22 --> 908.38] Where is your seed -[908.38 --> 911.22] The angels' throne -[911.22 --> 914.22] O Lord, O Lord our God -[914.22 --> 916.22] For Christ the name -[916.22 --> 918.22] O praise the name -[918.22 --> 920.22] O praise the name -[920.22 --> 921.22] O praise the name -[921.22 --> 922.22] Of the Lord our God -[922.22 --> 924.22] O praise his name -[924.22 --> 926.22] O praise his name -[926.22 --> 928.22] O hope O praise the name -[928.22 --> 930.22] For evermore -[930.22 --> 932.22] For endless days -[932.22 --> 937.22] We will sing your praise -[937.22 --> 939.22] O praise the name -[939.22 --> 941.22] Forevermore -[941.22 --> 943.22] For endless days -[943.22 --> 944.22] We will sing your praise -[944.22 --> 945.22] O praise the Lord -[945.22 --> 947.22] O praise the name -[947.22 --> 948.94] O praise the name -[948.94 --> 950.22] O praise our God -[950.22 --> 954.68] O praise our God -[954.68 --> 968.68] is -[984.68 --> 998.68] is -[1014.68 --> 1028.68] is -[1040.76 --> 1042.68] a -[1044.68 --> 1051.68] O Lord, O Lord our God. -[1051.68 --> 1059.52] As we enter into this time of confession, you may be seated. -[1073.90 --> 1077.02] The psalmist wrote in Psalm 92, -[1077.02 --> 1081.68] It is good to praise the Lord. -[1083.18 --> 1087.30] We sang of the one who has numbered every grain of sand, -[1088.06 --> 1091.46] the one who is holy and mighty and worthy of praise, -[1092.82 --> 1096.92] the one who conquered death and calls you to new life. -[1098.38 --> 1100.68] What's holding you back from following him? -[1101.52 --> 1105.50] Do you believe he is your Savior, Messiah, Redeemer and friend? -[1105.50 --> 1110.08] Do you desire to follow, to listen and love him all your days? -[1112.26 --> 1116.64] That thing that's coming up in your mind right now, name it. -[1117.28 --> 1124.34] That sin, that excuse, that regret, that anger, name it. -[1125.00 --> 1127.26] He's calling you to confess it. -[1127.26 --> 1134.20] Whether it's the first time or the hundredth time or what feels like the thousandth time, -[1134.86 --> 1136.68] lay yourself bare before the Lord. -[1137.62 --> 1142.74] He wants you to return because he loves you and has something better for you. -[1143.50 --> 1146.32] And he wants you to share that with the world. -[1146.32 --> 1151.60] If you don't know what to say to God, you can simply say, -[1152.42 --> 1153.02] I'm sorry. -[1153.54 --> 1155.62] I'm sorry for this thing I have done. -[1156.88 --> 1159.90] Confess it today, right now. -[1159.90 --> 1174.68] And then confess it tomorrow and the next day and every day. -[1174.68 --> 1180.84] May your heart grow with the thanksgiving for the sacrifice of Christ, -[1181.42 --> 1185.62] that your confession becomes a joy to bring to the Lord -[1185.62 --> 1191.38] because of the reminder of what he has done and find new life in him. -[1191.38 --> 1196.68] You are worthy to rend happening when you are saved. -[1196.98 --> 1198.94] Humphreys == -[1198.94 --> 1211.82] 的 knot -[1211.82 --> 1230.06] The mystery of the cross I cannot comprehend, the enemies of Calvary. -[1230.06 --> 1244.06] You're the perfect, all I want, Christ your Son, who drank the bitter cup reserved for me. -[1244.06 --> 1254.06] Your blood has washed away my sin, the kingdoms thank you, the Father's wrath completely satisfied. -[1254.06 --> 1261.06] Jesus, thank you, once your enemy, now see the battle table. -[1261.06 --> 1267.06] Jesus, thank you. -[1267.06 --> 1269.06] Amen. -[1269.06 --> 1271.06] Amen. -[1299.06 --> 1305.72] Your blood has washed away my sin, Jesus, thank you. -[1305.96 --> 1311.42] The fall is wrapped, completely satisfied, Jesus, thank you. -[1311.42 --> 1320.98] Once you're empty, now see that you're table, Jesus, thank you. -[1329.06 --> 1340.58] Love her of my soul, I want to live for you. -[1341.58 --> 1352.14] Love her of my soul, I want to live for you. -[1352.14 --> 1363.34] Love her of my soul, I want to live for you. -[1364.40 --> 1374.14] Love her of my soul, I want to live for you. -[1374.14 --> 1381.08] Your blood has washed away my sin, Jesus, thank you. -[1381.28 --> 1386.70] The fall is wrapped, completely satisfied, Jesus, thank you. -[1386.90 --> 1392.26] Your blood has washed away my sin, Jesus, thank you. -[1392.50 --> 1397.88] The fall is wrapped, completely satisfied, Jesus, thank you. -[1397.88 --> 1407.88] Once your enemy, now see that you're table, Jesus, thank you. -[1407.88 --> 1430.34] As we have opportunity this morning to come to baptism and profession of faith, -[1431.06 --> 1436.16] I'd love for you to hear the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, -[1436.16 --> 1441.34] who said, all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. -[1442.24 --> 1445.02] Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, -[1445.22 --> 1449.36] baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, -[1449.76 --> 1453.62] and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. -[1454.78 --> 1459.28] And remember, I am with you always to the end of the age. -[1460.32 --> 1462.72] Hear also these words from Holy Scripture. -[1462.72 --> 1464.68] In the book of Romans, we read, -[1465.04 --> 1469.38] all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death. -[1470.06 --> 1474.12] We, therefore, are buried with him through baptism into death, -[1474.16 --> 1479.88] in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, -[1480.08 --> 1482.92] we, too, may live a new life. -[1484.30 --> 1490.00] Baptism is the sign and seal of God's promises to his covenant people. -[1490.00 --> 1494.18] In baptism, God promises that by grace alone, -[1494.60 --> 1495.74] your sins are forgiven, -[1496.36 --> 1499.26] you are adopted into the body of Christ, the church, -[1499.74 --> 1502.90] and that you are sent to the Holy Spirit daily -[1502.90 --> 1505.66] to renew and to cleanse you, -[1506.16 --> 1510.64] and that you are resurrected to eternal life. -[1510.64 --> 1516.12] This promise is made visible for us in the waters of baptism. -[1517.02 --> 1521.38] At this point, I'm going to invite Dave to come up to the front with Alvin as well. -[1521.46 --> 1525.68] We're going to hear a little testimony from Dave and a word of encouragement from Alvin, -[1526.18 --> 1527.78] and then we will proceed together. -[1527.78 --> 1532.60] Dave and a word of encouragement from Alvin. -[1537.10 --> 1537.50] Hello. -[1539.16 --> 1542.52] Sorry, it's been a while since I've spoken in front of this many people, -[1542.68 --> 1544.12] so bear with me. -[1545.90 --> 1548.86] So, for those of you who do know me, -[1549.00 --> 1549.84] I'm David Moore. -[1549.84 --> 1553.32] I was born into a Christian family, -[1554.12 --> 1556.28] was raised as a Christian, -[1556.42 --> 1559.34] but I kind of fell away from my faith -[1559.34 --> 1562.34] in my teen years. -[1562.72 --> 1565.96] But I tried to come back and forth into it, -[1566.20 --> 1568.40] just trying to find myself and find some answers -[1568.40 --> 1570.34] for questions that I had throughout my life. -[1572.98 --> 1575.04] But I never found those answers. -[1575.04 --> 1579.18] As some of you may know, -[1579.28 --> 1583.08] I lost my spouse to cancer two years ago, -[1583.52 --> 1584.96] and during that time, -[1585.56 --> 1589.42] my mom came and helped look after her, -[1589.60 --> 1590.42] looked after my daughter, -[1590.96 --> 1594.60] and I could hear them talking about God and Jesus -[1594.60 --> 1596.04] and praying together. -[1597.42 --> 1602.72] After that, I started working on building a village for my daughter -[1602.72 --> 1604.74] because I knew she needed to be surrounded by great people. -[1605.04 --> 1608.10] And some of those people were her friend, Ava, -[1608.38 --> 1609.68] and her mom, Mackenzie, -[1609.86 --> 1613.44] who spoke to her about God and Jesus. -[1614.16 --> 1615.90] And so Emma all started asking me questions -[1615.90 --> 1618.84] that I didn't have answers for, -[1618.98 --> 1620.74] so I started speaking to people around me. -[1621.48 --> 1626.80] And I didn't know where to go, -[1627.08 --> 1629.56] but I was told that there was this great church -[1629.56 --> 1630.42] that I should try out, -[1630.64 --> 1631.68] so I came here. -[1631.68 --> 1635.20] The first day I came here, -[1635.26 --> 1636.64] I was just an observer. -[1636.86 --> 1639.46] I just wanted to be here to support my daughter. -[1640.24 --> 1641.66] And at the end of the service, -[1641.78 --> 1644.54] when we were standing around having coffee, -[1644.94 --> 1646.74] a woman approached me. -[1647.14 --> 1650.46] And out of everyone in the church, -[1650.72 --> 1652.14] she came up to me, -[1652.20 --> 1653.06] and she's just like, -[1653.06 --> 1654.56] hi, you're new here. -[1654.66 --> 1655.48] I don't know you. -[1655.92 --> 1657.04] And so we started chatting, -[1657.56 --> 1661.80] and we got to knowing each other -[1661.80 --> 1663.78] about our loss in our lives -[1663.78 --> 1665.50] and got emotional. -[1665.72 --> 1667.72] And so I stepped outside to try and collect myself, -[1667.88 --> 1668.50] and she came up, -[1668.56 --> 1668.98] and she's like, -[1669.22 --> 1670.16] can I pray for you? -[1670.76 --> 1671.38] And I'm just like, -[1671.50 --> 1672.22] I'd love that. -[1672.58 --> 1673.94] So she's like, -[1673.98 --> 1674.68] can I ask your name? -[1674.74 --> 1675.08] I'm like, -[1675.56 --> 1676.16] I reached out my hand, -[1676.18 --> 1676.40] I'm like, -[1676.44 --> 1677.08] hi, I'm Dave. -[1677.84 --> 1679.56] And to which she started crying, -[1679.76 --> 1681.16] which immediately made me cry. -[1681.98 --> 1682.76] And like, -[1682.92 --> 1683.16] from, -[1684.36 --> 1684.66] like, -[1685.24 --> 1685.80] sorry. -[1689.80 --> 1690.20] Like, -[1690.36 --> 1692.20] what I can only describe as being overcome -[1692.20 --> 1693.34] by the Holy Spirit, -[1694.00 --> 1696.28] I cried for hours. -[1696.54 --> 1697.32] I went home, -[1697.42 --> 1698.10] and I didn't know what to do, -[1698.18 --> 1699.08] and so the first thing I did -[1699.08 --> 1701.28] was I pulled out my little pocket Bible -[1701.28 --> 1701.82] that I had, -[1702.26 --> 1703.12] and I just started reading. -[1704.42 --> 1706.54] And so I started to think of this -[1706.54 --> 1707.32] more wholeheartedly. -[1707.50 --> 1708.84] I started talking to people in my life, -[1708.92 --> 1709.62] trying to, like, -[1709.88 --> 1710.46] get answers, -[1710.60 --> 1712.56] and there's just too many things -[1712.56 --> 1713.76] that I can, -[1714.88 --> 1716.28] that I can't call coincidences. -[1716.56 --> 1716.74] Like, -[1717.06 --> 1718.72] to have a coincidence after coincidence -[1718.72 --> 1719.36] after coincidence -[1719.36 --> 1721.38] just keep on piling up. -[1721.78 --> 1722.94] There's only one answer -[1722.94 --> 1723.64] that I could come to. -[1724.64 --> 1726.40] God was trying to grab me. -[1726.46 --> 1727.76] He was trying to bring me -[1727.76 --> 1729.06] into His embrace -[1729.06 --> 1730.22] so that I could be -[1730.22 --> 1731.90] with Him again. -[1733.14 --> 1733.52] And so, -[1733.72 --> 1734.40] I'm here today -[1734.40 --> 1736.52] to tell you -[1736.52 --> 1738.34] basically the start of my story -[1738.34 --> 1739.76] and to walk with you -[1739.76 --> 1740.44] for the rest of mine. -[1741.98 --> 1742.50] Thank you. -[1742.50 --> 1742.64] Amen. -[1743.48 --> 1743.96] Applause -[1743.96 --> 1757.94] Well, what an amazing day. -[1759.22 --> 1760.32] This is the beginning, -[1760.84 --> 1761.54] a new beginning -[1761.54 --> 1763.36] of a lifelong journey in faith. -[1763.96 --> 1764.44] Today, -[1764.60 --> 1765.32] as you, Dave, -[1765.40 --> 1766.16] and you, Amabel, -[1766.44 --> 1767.30] are baptized, -[1767.86 --> 1769.10] you're declaring your desire -[1769.10 --> 1770.86] to embrace this new life, -[1771.02 --> 1772.14] trusting wholeheartedly -[1772.14 --> 1772.92] in Jesus Christ -[1772.92 --> 1774.04] as your Lord and Savior. -[1775.32 --> 1775.80] Dave, -[1775.90 --> 1776.98] I pray that you continue -[1776.98 --> 1777.74] to read your Bible, -[1778.42 --> 1779.40] ask more questions, -[1779.82 --> 1780.92] challenge those around you -[1780.92 --> 1781.58] to do the same, -[1782.04 --> 1783.36] then search for those answers -[1783.36 --> 1783.90] in Scripture. -[1784.70 --> 1785.68] Lean into His Word, -[1785.82 --> 1786.58] for it will guide you -[1786.58 --> 1787.54] through every challenge, -[1787.92 --> 1789.12] and show you the path. -[1789.86 --> 1791.16] Your search for understanding -[1791.16 --> 1792.70] will lead you closer to God, -[1793.18 --> 1794.18] and through your faith, -[1794.34 --> 1795.26] you will find the answers -[1795.26 --> 1795.88] that you seek. -[1798.38 --> 1798.78] Amabel, -[1799.64 --> 1800.08] today, -[1800.26 --> 1801.00] you're stepping -[1801.00 --> 1801.94] into a new chapter -[1801.94 --> 1802.62] of your life, -[1803.12 --> 1804.32] one filled with the love -[1804.32 --> 1805.22] and grace of God. -[1805.78 --> 1806.48] As you grow, -[1806.76 --> 1807.54] I encourage you -[1807.54 --> 1808.50] to embrace the words -[1808.50 --> 1809.52] of Psalm 119, -[1809.94 --> 1810.86] where it says, -[1810.98 --> 1811.58] Your Word, -[1811.74 --> 1812.24] the Bible, -[1812.50 --> 1813.82] is a lamp for my feet, -[1814.04 --> 1815.40] a light unto my path. -[1816.10 --> 1816.96] Allow God's Word -[1816.96 --> 1817.76] to light your way, -[1818.10 --> 1819.32] and you will find strength -[1819.32 --> 1819.98] and guidance -[1819.98 --> 1821.24] in every step that you take. -[1823.78 --> 1824.22] Together, -[1824.42 --> 1825.54] both of you in Christ, -[1825.80 --> 1827.12] you have the support -[1827.12 --> 1827.80] of your family -[1827.80 --> 1828.50] and your friends. -[1828.94 --> 1829.66] We are all here -[1829.66 --> 1830.70] to walk alongside you, -[1831.16 --> 1832.18] to encourage you, -[1832.24 --> 1832.98] and to help you grow -[1832.98 --> 1833.58] in your faith. -[1834.74 --> 1836.06] Philippians 4.13 says, -[1836.18 --> 1837.18] I can do all things -[1837.18 --> 1837.62] through Him -[1837.62 --> 1838.64] who gives me strength. -[1839.00 --> 1839.72] Lean on Him -[1839.72 --> 1840.98] in times of uncertainty, -[1841.36 --> 1842.38] and He will provide you -[1842.38 --> 1843.08] with the strength -[1843.08 --> 1844.34] needed to navigate -[1844.34 --> 1845.18] life's challenges. -[1845.18 --> 1848.16] As you guys -[1848.16 --> 1849.12] take this step today, -[1849.38 --> 1850.52] know that you are not alone. -[1851.72 --> 1852.64] God is with you -[1852.64 --> 1853.56] every step of the way, -[1853.78 --> 1854.26] and we, -[1854.46 --> 1855.32] your community here, -[1855.38 --> 1856.26] are here to support you. -[1856.64 --> 1857.72] Embrace the new life -[1857.72 --> 1858.26] you were beginning, -[1859.02 --> 1859.68] filled with love, -[1859.82 --> 1860.02] hope, -[1860.08 --> 1861.10] and an amazing relationship -[1861.10 --> 1861.94] with Jesus Christ. -[1862.70 --> 1864.08] May God bless both of you -[1864.08 --> 1864.62] abundantly -[1864.62 --> 1865.96] as you grow in your faith -[1865.96 --> 1867.36] and continue to ask -[1867.36 --> 1868.16] those deep questions -[1868.16 --> 1868.84] that will lead you -[1868.84 --> 1869.56] closer to Him. -[1870.14 --> 1870.54] Congratulations, -[1871.00 --> 1871.84] and happy birthday. -[1871.84 --> 1872.66] Thank you. -[1872.66 --> 1875.32] It is His birthday today. -[1886.32 --> 1887.46] Why don't you take a seat? -[1887.60 --> 1887.88] Amabel, -[1888.02 --> 1889.04] why don't you come up here? -[1890.84 --> 1891.28] Dave, -[1891.34 --> 1892.56] why don't you move over here? -[1894.22 --> 1894.90] This way. -[1894.90 --> 1897.90] So, -[1898.00 --> 1900.44] as Alvin indicated, -[1901.44 --> 1902.76] for the last year, -[1903.30 --> 1905.76] Dave has been part of -[1905.76 --> 1908.08] the Christianity Explored class -[1908.08 --> 1908.82] that we run. -[1909.50 --> 1911.18] He was part of our -[1911.18 --> 1912.22] Heidelberg Catechism -[1912.22 --> 1913.04] reading group, -[1913.58 --> 1914.96] and part of many -[1914.96 --> 1916.82] conversations and lunches, -[1916.92 --> 1918.40] and introduced me to the best -[1918.40 --> 1919.68] ramen place in town. -[1919.68 --> 1923.38] But Dave asks questions. -[1924.24 --> 1925.26] Lots of questions. -[1925.42 --> 1927.00] Really good questions, -[1927.36 --> 1928.82] and I love that about you. -[1930.04 --> 1930.98] But now it's my turn -[1930.98 --> 1931.98] to ask you some questions. -[1933.56 --> 1934.84] The questions I asked, Dave, -[1934.86 --> 1935.20] they're going to be -[1935.20 --> 1936.10] on the screen back there. -[1936.24 --> 1937.12] They're also right here -[1937.12 --> 1938.12] if you want to see them. -[1938.46 --> 1939.90] You'll be invited to respond -[1939.90 --> 1941.18] as we go through. -[1941.52 --> 1941.80] All right? -[1941.80 --> 1941.86] All right? -[1941.86 --> 1948.16] Beloved of God, -[1948.80 --> 1950.64] I ask you before God -[1950.64 --> 1952.02] and Christ's church -[1952.02 --> 1953.42] to reject evil, -[1953.78 --> 1954.92] to profess your faith -[1954.92 --> 1955.96] in Christ Jesus, -[1956.16 --> 1957.52] and to confess the faith -[1957.52 --> 1958.36] of this church -[1958.36 --> 1959.10] through the ages. -[1959.76 --> 1961.08] Do you renounce sin -[1961.08 --> 1962.06] and the power of evil -[1962.06 --> 1962.78] in your life -[1962.78 --> 1963.40] and in the world? -[1964.30 --> 1964.64] I do. -[1966.88 --> 1969.06] Who is your Lord and Savior? -[1971.00 --> 1971.78] Jesus Christ. -[1971.86 --> 1972.44] My Lord and Savior. -[1973.02 --> 1973.32] Amen. -[1974.28 --> 1974.98] And will you be -[1974.98 --> 1975.88] a faithful member -[1975.88 --> 1976.88] of this congregation -[1976.88 --> 1977.78] and through worship -[1977.78 --> 1978.72] and service seek -[1978.72 --> 1980.44] to advance God's kingdom -[1980.44 --> 1981.64] here and throughout -[1981.64 --> 1982.16] the world? -[1982.70 --> 1983.68] I will with God's help. -[1984.50 --> 1985.70] And do you promise -[1985.70 --> 1986.98] to accept the spiritual -[1986.98 --> 1988.36] guidance of this church, -[1988.60 --> 1990.62] to walk in the spirit -[1990.62 --> 1991.54] of Christian love -[1991.54 --> 1992.36] with this congregation, -[1992.36 --> 1994.26] and to seek those things -[1994.26 --> 1995.32] that make for unity, -[1995.70 --> 1996.96] purity, and peace? -[1997.44 --> 1998.58] I do with God's help. -[1999.10 --> 1999.40] Amen. -[1999.40 --> 1999.50] Amen. -[2000.96 --> 2001.82] Since baptism -[2001.82 --> 2003.48] is the gift of God -[2003.48 --> 2005.02] for the church of God, -[2005.28 --> 2006.72] we are never alone -[2006.72 --> 2008.42] in professing our faith. -[2008.94 --> 2010.22] So I'm going to ask everyone -[2010.22 --> 2012.00] if you would stand together -[2012.00 --> 2015.18] and answer the following questions -[2015.18 --> 2016.00] with Dave, -[2016.48 --> 2017.42] which will be, -[2017.68 --> 2019.30] the responses will be words -[2019.30 --> 2020.60] from the Apostles' Creed, -[2021.08 --> 2022.62] a confession of the Christian church -[2022.62 --> 2024.04] for almost 2,000 years. -[2024.04 --> 2026.46] And so altogether, -[2026.68 --> 2028.20] do you believe in God the Father? -[2029.12 --> 2031.10] I believe in God the Father, -[2031.22 --> 2031.68] Almighty, -[2032.22 --> 2033.96] creator of heaven and earth. -[2034.54 --> 2036.60] Do you believe in Jesus Christ? -[2037.38 --> 2039.46] I believe in Jesus Christ, -[2039.72 --> 2041.50] his only Son, our Lord, -[2041.98 --> 2042.94] who was conceived -[2042.94 --> 2044.20] by the Holy Spirit -[2044.20 --> 2046.28] and born of the Virgin Mary. -[2046.90 --> 2048.96] He suffered under Pontius Pilate, -[2049.28 --> 2050.14] was crucified, -[2050.58 --> 2050.96] died, -[2051.06 --> 2051.84] and was buried. -[2051.84 --> 2053.60] He descended to hell. -[2054.38 --> 2055.26] The third day, -[2055.40 --> 2057.12] he rose again from the dead. -[2057.78 --> 2058.94] He ascended to heaven -[2058.94 --> 2060.12] and is seated -[2060.12 --> 2061.76] at the right hand of God, -[2061.84 --> 2062.90] the Father Almighty. -[2063.60 --> 2064.20] From there, -[2064.30 --> 2065.56] he will come to judge -[2065.56 --> 2066.88] the living and the dead. -[2067.98 --> 2069.64] And do you believe in God, -[2069.72 --> 2070.52] the Holy Spirit? -[2071.40 --> 2073.48] I believe in the Holy Spirit, -[2074.02 --> 2075.62] the Holy Catholic Church, -[2075.62 --> 2077.56] the communion of saints, -[2078.10 --> 2079.56] the forgiveness of sins, -[2080.14 --> 2081.74] the resurrection of the body, -[2082.24 --> 2083.66] and the life everlasting. -[2084.46 --> 2084.84] Amen. -[2085.84 --> 2086.12] Amen. -[2087.12 --> 2087.60] Dave, -[2087.84 --> 2088.82] I'm going to invite you -[2088.82 --> 2090.08] to squeeze yourself -[2090.08 --> 2091.82] into this pool here. -[2092.60 --> 2092.92] Emma Bell, -[2092.98 --> 2093.72] why don't you come stand -[2093.72 --> 2094.44] on this side? -[2097.44 --> 2098.86] Thank you for holding it up. -[2101.74 --> 2102.88] Go ahead and have a seat. -[2102.88 --> 2102.94] Thank you. -[2105.62 --> 2108.50] I think you need more water. -[2108.80 --> 2109.92] No, sit up, sit up. -[2113.96 --> 2116.56] David John Moore, -[2117.12 --> 2118.12] I baptize you -[2118.12 --> 2119.02] in the name of the Father -[2119.02 --> 2120.24] and of the Son -[2120.24 --> 2121.80] and of the Holy Spirit. -[2122.20 --> 2122.44] Amen. -[2122.44 --> 2122.62] Amen. -[2128.62 --> 2129.54] Amen. -[2130.16 --> 2131.32] Amen. -[2131.32 --> 2131.40] Amen. -[2131.40 --> 2131.44] Amen. -[2131.44 --> 2131.52] Amen. -[2135.62 --> 2136.02] Amen. -[2152.02 --> 2153.90] We were ready. -[2156.64 --> 2157.04] Yep. -[2158.06 --> 2158.96] Thanks, my wife, -[2159.00 --> 2159.46] for bringing them. -[2159.52 --> 2160.26] I forgot them at home. -[2160.26 --> 2160.32] Amen. -[2160.32 --> 2160.38] Amen. -[2160.38 --> 2160.44] Amen. -[2160.44 --> 2160.72] Amen. -[2160.72 --> 2161.24] Amen. -[2161.24 --> 2161.34] Amen. -[2161.34 --> 2161.36] Amen. -[2161.36 --> 2161.44] Amen. -[2161.44 --> 2161.48] Amen. -[2161.48 --> 2161.88] Amen. -[2161.88 --> 2161.96] Amen. -[2161.96 --> 2162.64] Amen. -[2162.64 --> 2163.96] Amen. -[2163.96 --> 2164.48] Amen. -[2164.48 --> 2165.54] Amen. -[2165.54 --> 2166.34] Amen. -[2166.34 --> 2171.34] In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, -[2171.52 --> 2173.68] the only king and head of the church, -[2174.18 --> 2177.54] Dave is now received into the membership -[2177.54 --> 2179.66] of the Holy Catholic Church, -[2179.80 --> 2181.96] engaged to confess Christ -[2181.96 --> 2183.62] and to be God's faithful servant -[2183.62 --> 2185.38] until life's end. -[2185.68 --> 2185.90] Amen? -[2186.36 --> 2186.92] Amen. -[2187.28 --> 2187.54] Amen. -[2188.76 --> 2189.44] Emma Bell, -[2189.50 --> 2190.88] why don't you stand over here -[2190.88 --> 2191.90] beside Dad for a moment? -[2191.90 --> 2191.96] Amen. -[2191.96 --> 2199.94] In Acts 2, in the founding of the Christian church at Pentecost, Peter says that the promise of -[2199.94 --> 2206.70] forgiveness and the Holy Spirit is for you and for your children, for all who are far off, -[2206.74 --> 2212.52] for all whom the Lord our God will call. And in 1 Corinthians 7, the apostle writes that the -[2212.52 --> 2217.56] children of believing parents are holy, that is, they are set apart for God's covenant. -[2217.56 --> 2224.84] Because we believe that God's covenant grace extends from parent to child, we are also baptizing -[2224.84 --> 2230.32] Emma Bell this morning. And for that, Dave, I have two more questions for you. I invite you to respond -[2230.32 --> 2236.14] at the end of my reading both questions, which I do with God's help. Dave, do you believe that your -[2236.14 --> 2241.98] child, though sinful by nature, is received by God in Christ as a member of his covenant and therefore -[2241.98 --> 2247.18] ought to be baptized? And do you promise in reliance on the Holy Spirit and with the help of the -[2247.18 --> 2252.52] Christian community to do all in your power to instruct her in the Christian faith, to lead -[2252.52 --> 2259.18] her by your example into Christian discipleship? Dave, what is your answer? Amen. Emma Bell, -[2259.28 --> 2267.84] can you step forward just a little bit for me? Thank you. Emma Bell Isla Eaton Moore, -[2267.84 --> 2278.28] amen. Amen. Amen. -[2278.28 --> 2278.40] Amen. -[2284.98 --> 2288.90] You guys want to just go take a seat there for a second? I'll invite you back up. -[2288.90 --> 2312.12] Take your spot here. -[2312.12 --> 2328.14] Mackenzie, this first part is for you. It's our hope and prayer that here your faith in God will -[2328.14 --> 2334.46] be strengthened, that your love for Jesus will be grown, and that you will find opportunity to serve -[2334.46 --> 2341.98] in the Spirit as you join us on mission with God to the community. As we welcome you into this -[2341.98 --> 2347.46] church family, we ask that you affirm the faith that you have professed and been baptized into, -[2347.60 --> 2352.82] and your commitment to God's mission in and through Langley-Emmanuel, to the city, to the region, -[2352.82 --> 2357.92] and through us all to the world. To do so, I'm going to ask you three questions. I'll invite you to -[2357.92 --> 2364.76] respond at the end of all three questions. Mackenzie, do you believe in Jesus as your Savior and Lord, -[2365.12 --> 2371.38] and that in him only is hope and freedom from sin found? Do you believe that the Bible is the word of God -[2371.38 --> 2376.68] revealing his plan for redemption in Christ Jesus, and that the preaching and teaching of this church -[2376.68 --> 2382.24] reflect this truth? And do you promise, with the help of the Holy Spirit, to do all you can to -[2382.24 --> 2388.32] strengthen your relationship to Jesus by being part of the life of this church, recognizing its oversight -[2388.32 --> 2394.88] and authority, and joining with us on mission for Jesus in this community, in this city, and the world? -[2395.42 --> 2396.84] Mackenzie, what is your answer? -[2396.84 --> 2398.06] Thank you. That's God's help. -[2398.34 --> 2404.66] Amen. And again, we believe that God's covenant grace extends from parent to child, and so this -[2404.66 --> 2409.88] morning, we're also going to baptize Ava, and for that, Mackenzie, I ask two more questions. -[2410.70 --> 2416.06] Do you believe that your child, though sinful by nature, is received by God in Christ as a member -[2416.06 --> 2422.08] of his covenant, and therefore ought to be baptized? And do you promise in reliance on the Holy Spirit, -[2422.08 --> 2426.96] and with the help of the Christian community, to do all in your power, to instruct her in the Christian -[2426.96 --> 2432.66] faith, and to lead her, by your example, into Christian discipleship? Mackenzie, what is your answer? -[2433.80 --> 2437.84] Amen. Ava, I'm going to invite you to get into the pool. -[2437.84 --> 2451.84] I don't think you'll displace as much water as Dave did. Mackenzie, why don't you come to the -[2451.84 --> 2458.22] back here, and you can take her shoulders as she goes back. No, I said to the back. -[2458.22 --> 2469.88] Okay. All right, you're going to plug your nose? All right. Ava, Christina, Meluena, Halam, -[2470.34 --> 2474.92] I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. -[2479.92 --> 2486.28] Amen. Amen. Good job, sweetheart. Can you pass me the towel down? -[2486.28 --> 2502.32] Amen. Nothing quite like a cold plunge to wake you up in the morning, right? And almost falling -[2502.32 --> 2508.46] up. Why don't you guys stay up here? Ava, stay up here. Dave and Amabel, why don't you -[2508.46 --> 2524.34] guys come back up here as well? Church family, now it is your turn. I invite you to stand as you are -[2524.34 --> 2536.56] able. Do you, family of God gathered here, promise to love, encourage, and support Dave and Amabel -[2536.56 --> 2543.72] and Mackenzie and Ava by welcoming them into our church family, by teaching the gospel of God's love, -[2543.86 --> 2550.28] by being an example of Christian faith and character, and by giving the strong support of God's family in -[2550.28 --> 2558.76] fellowship, in prayer, and in service? What is your answer? We do, for God's help. Amen. You may be seated. -[2561.66 --> 2565.90] I'm going to invite you guys to come over here to the front, down below. -[2565.90 --> 2578.68] At this point, I'd like to invite some elders to come forward. They're going to give you a gift and a -[2578.68 --> 2585.96] little memento of this occasion and welcome you. Following that, we're going to offer a prayer and -[2585.96 --> 2589.34] laying hands on of you as well. -[2607.98 --> 2613.40] Standing together as representatives of the family of Christ and as members of this church, -[2613.40 --> 2620.20] the Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you. The -[2620.20 --> 2628.44] Lord turn his face toward you and give you his peace. In this way, the Lord has put his name on you -[2628.44 --> 2636.72] and marked you as his own. I want to invite all of those who know Dave and Mackenzie, who want to -[2636.72 --> 2641.16] encourage them in this moment of life and faith to come forward. We're going to lay hands on them. -[2641.16 --> 2647.76] Officers, service members, elders, deacons in this church, if you've walked in any way with these -[2647.76 --> 2652.08] folks, we invite you to come up to the front. We might lay hands on together. Dave and Mackenzie, -[2652.16 --> 2654.34] I encourage you just to step forward so we can surround you. -[2668.68 --> 2669.56] Let's pray together. -[2669.56 --> 2669.58] Let's pray together. -[2671.16 --> 2680.10] Father in heaven, for Jesus' sake and for your glory, we pray, stir up in Dave and -[2680.10 --> 2688.14] Amabel and in Mackenzie and Ava the gift of your Holy Spirit. Confirm their faith, guide their life, -[2688.56 --> 2695.40] empower their serving, give them patience in suffering, and bring them to everlasting life -[2695.40 --> 2703.34] through Jesus Christ our Lord. Together with them, we all walk in faith in Jesus' precious name. -[2703.34 --> 2707.72] All God's people said, Amen. Amen. -[2707.72 --> 2718.48] We're going to stand and sing together in gratitude to God, the song, Gratitude. -[2718.48 --> 2718.92] Amen. -[2748.48 --> 2762.16] Oh, my words fall short, I've got nothing new -[2762.16 --> 2769.10] Look at how I express all my gratitude -[2769.10 --> 2779.10] She makes songs, as I often do -[2779.10 --> 2787.10] But it's not my standard, and you never do -[2787.10 --> 2795.10] So I draw up my hands, pray to you again and again -[2795.10 --> 2805.10] All that I have is now, hallelujah, hallelujah -[2805.10 --> 2813.10] I know it's not much, I know nothing else in for a king -[2813.10 --> 2825.10] Step for a heart singing, hallelujah, hallelujah -[2825.10 --> 2835.10] I've got one response, I've got just one move -[2835.10 --> 2844.10] With my arms stretched wide, I will worship you -[2844.10 --> 2852.10] So I draw up my hands, pray to you again and again -[2852.10 --> 2862.10] Because all that I have is now, hallelujah, hallelujah -[2862.10 --> 2870.10] And I know it's not much, but nobody else in for a king -[2870.10 --> 2884.10] Step for a heart singing, hallelujah, hallelujah -[2884.10 --> 2890.10] Come on, my soul, don't you dare shy on me -[2890.10 --> 2892.10] Let up your song -[2892.10 --> 2896.10] Cause you've got a lion inside those lungs -[2896.10 --> 2902.10] Get up and praise the Lord -[2902.10 --> 2907.10] Come on, my soul, don't you dare shy on me -[2907.10 --> 2909.10] Let up your song -[2909.10 --> 2913.10] Cause you've got a lion inside those lungs -[2913.10 --> 2919.10] Get up and praise the Lord -[2919.10 --> 2924.10] Come on, my soul, don't you dare shy on me -[2924.10 --> 2926.10] Let up your song -[2926.10 --> 2930.10] Cause you've got a lion inside those lungs -[2930.10 --> 2936.10] Get up and praise the Lord -[2936.10 --> 2938.10] Lord, I'm going to throw up my hands -[2938.10 --> 2942.10] Praise you again and again -[2942.10 --> 2952.10] Cause all that I have is now, hallelujah, hallelujah -[2952.10 --> 2958.10] And I know it's not much, but nothing else in for a king -[2958.10 --> 2974.10] Set for our singing, hallelujah, hallelujah -[2974.10 --> 2976.10] Amen -[2976.10 --> 2978.10] Amen -[2978.10 --> 2979.10] Amen -[2979.10 --> 2981.10] Amen -[2981.10 --> 2983.10] Amen -[2983.10 --> 2985.10] Amen -[2985.10 --> 2987.10] Amen -[2987.10 --> 2990.10] Amen -[2994.10 --> 2997.10] So, good morning -[2997.10 --> 3000.10] We continue our worship by having an offering -[3000.10 --> 3003.10] So our offering today is for the budget -[3003.10 --> 3006.10] As well as for Open Doors Canada -[3006.10 --> 3009.10] And they're both offerings are collected in the same bag -[3009.10 --> 3013.10] So if you wish to give to the budget then please mark it as such -[3013.10 --> 3018.34] and you can use the envelopes that are in front of you, in the chairs in front of you. -[3019.34 --> 3027.20] So Open Doors Canada is a ministry that works with the persecuted church around the world, -[3027.60 --> 3034.06] and it was founded in 1955 by Brother Andrew, who famously wrote that book, God's Smuggler, -[3034.06 --> 3044.86] and since that founding of that organization is now an organization that's gone through about 70 different countries in the world, -[3045.46 --> 3052.86] and some of the persecuted countries are in North Korea, in Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Myanmar. -[3053.20 --> 3059.86] Myanmar is now, again, on the list since there is a coup that's going on there, and there's a great persecution going on in Myanmar. -[3059.86 --> 3068.86] What Open Doors does for support is they supply Bibles and other resources, as well as they train leaders, -[3069.56 --> 3071.72] they strengthen the leaders of these persecuted churches. -[3072.42 --> 3080.20] They also supply aid for anybody who's been a victim of persecution, and then they also have a prayer watch. -[3080.64 --> 3085.54] So if you go to their website, you will find that every day there is a new prayer request. -[3085.54 --> 3094.74] And so, like, for today, the prayer request is for a country in Middle Asia where the church, when they were meeting, -[3094.88 --> 3103.48] they were surrounded by the militia and were kidnapped for two days and went without food or water for two solid days. -[3103.62 --> 3109.54] They've been since released, but you can imagine the trauma that that has ensued. -[3110.44 --> 3114.04] That church now would be afraid to meet, they'd be afraid that it would happen again. -[3114.04 --> 3116.50] And so the whole church is just persecuted. -[3117.14 --> 3121.08] So today's prayer request, then, is to actually pray for strength for that church, -[3121.44 --> 3128.54] that they can be surrounded by the power of the Spirit and to continue to meet. -[3129.26 --> 3137.80] So maybe this week would be a nice challenge for us to go to that website and at least once pray the prayer request that's there. -[3137.80 --> 3145.06] Brother Andrew has famously said that prayer is not the preparation for battle, prayer is the battle. -[3145.66 --> 3148.34] So please give generously and thank you. -[3148.34 --> 3153.86] Thank you. -[3153.86 --> 3157.18] Do you like to leave the sermon. -[3157.18 --> 3163.60] Hope Hal and ona猜 -[3164.48 --> 3165.98] Not everyone alone on the Internet. -[3165.98 --> 3168.28] drownin Anchor -[3168.28 --> 3190.50] I will offer up my life in spirit and truth, pouring out the oil of love as my worship to Him. -[3190.50 --> 3202.54] In surrender I must live, I have required, Lord receive the sacrifice of a broken heart. -[3202.54 --> 3214.08] Jesus, what can I give, what can I bring to so faithful of wrath, to so loving and pain? -[3214.08 --> 3225.66] Savior, what can be said, what can be sung as a praise of Your name for the things You have done? -[3225.66 --> 3241.66] Oh, my words, there's no doubt, not even in part of the dead of love that is owed by this thankful heart. -[3244.08 --> 3257.48] You deserve my every path, for You paid the great cost, giving up Your life to death, even death on a cross. -[3257.48 --> 3268.90] You took all my shame away, there defeated my sin, open up the gates of hell and let beckon me in. -[3268.90 --> 3280.32] Jesus, what can I give, what can I bring to so faithful of wrath, to so loving and pain? -[3280.72 --> 3291.46] Savior, what can be said, what can be sung as a praise of Your name for the things You have done? -[3291.46 --> 3303.46] Oh, my words, there's no doubt, not even in part of the dead of love that is owed. -[3303.46 --> 3312.46] Of the dead of love that is owed by this thankful heart. -[3312.46 --> 3331.14] I would love any kids in preschool through kindergarten or thereabouts. -[3331.36 --> 3332.54] I'll let your parents decide. -[3332.54 --> 3333.82] Come on up to the front. -[3334.36 --> 3336.64] We're going to do the children's blessing here. -[3337.94 --> 3338.70] Right up. -[3338.80 --> 3339.30] Beautiful. -[3340.78 --> 3341.72] Excellent job. -[3342.46 --> 3343.88] Oh, some more. -[3344.08 --> 3344.62] Love it. -[3345.40 --> 3346.38] Ava, perfect. -[3348.80 --> 3349.52] All right. -[3350.26 --> 3351.26] Here we go. -[3352.48 --> 3353.30] Well, excellent. -[3353.40 --> 3353.72] Any more? -[3353.80 --> 3354.24] Anyone else? -[3355.00 --> 3355.60] Last chance? -[3356.18 --> 3356.82] Going once? -[3357.38 --> 3357.62] No? -[3357.74 --> 3358.00] All right. -[3358.42 --> 3359.26] All right, guys. -[3359.26 --> 3362.32] You guys are going to head off to children's worship time together. -[3363.00 --> 3369.32] And if you don't go back there with the leaders, I encourage you to go back to your seats and hang out with us for the next little bit. -[3369.32 --> 3371.74] But before that, we're going to bless the congregation. -[3371.74 --> 3373.36] And they're going to bless us. -[3373.36 --> 3373.80] Right? -[3373.80 --> 3376.22] So if you know how that works, why don't you lead the way? -[3376.38 --> 3377.74] Stand up together. -[3378.64 --> 3380.32] Everybody can stand up together. -[3380.32 --> 3383.20] And then we're going to say, the Lord be with you. -[3383.20 --> 3385.70] And the church will respond by saying, and... -[3385.70 --> 3391.70] My name is... -[3391.70 --> 3392.62] Whoa. -[3392.92 --> 3393.40] That's loud. -[3394.40 --> 3396.92] My name is Paul, and I'm an elder here. -[3397.16 --> 3401.30] And it's my privilege to pray with you. -[3404.30 --> 3405.66] Our church family prayer. -[3406.04 --> 3406.58] Let's pray. -[3406.58 --> 3417.92] Father in heaven, you are holy. -[3418.92 --> 3419.86] You are mighty. -[3421.44 --> 3424.88] You are worthy and worthy of praise. -[3424.88 --> 3434.18] You are the Lord of Lords, the King of Kings, the Prince of Peace, who is the Lamb of God. -[3434.84 --> 3437.00] You are the living God. -[3438.40 --> 3440.22] You will reign forever. -[3441.46 --> 3446.20] You're the Ancient of Days, the Alpha, the Omega, the Beginning, and the End. -[3446.72 --> 3448.50] Our Savior, Redeemer. -[3448.50 --> 3453.12] And yet, you are our friend. -[3454.62 --> 3456.96] It seems so implausible. -[3458.58 --> 3459.44] Thank you. -[3460.66 --> 3464.68] Thank you for being with us, walking beside us through life. -[3466.30 --> 3471.04] You take all of us, everything that we are, and make us whole. -[3473.36 --> 3476.78] Lord, we're incapable of changing ourselves. -[3476.78 --> 3487.44] But by your Spirit, work in us to make us like your Son, as hard and as painful as that might be sometimes. -[3488.76 --> 3495.94] And give us joy in it, for we know that true joy comes only from you. -[3498.64 --> 3501.94] We've all come with individual and personal needs. -[3503.04 --> 3505.80] Needs that we may not have shared with anyone else. -[3506.78 --> 3510.42] But you know us, and the struggles and the burdens we're facing. -[3512.80 --> 3515.76] We thank you for the blessing of new beginnings. -[3517.54 --> 3524.76] Today we lift up Dave, Annabelle, Mackenzie, and Ava as they step forward in faith. -[3524.76 --> 3539.54] May your Spirit fill their hearts and peace and strength with strength and purpose. -[3541.00 --> 3545.26] Guide them as they all grow in faith along with us, -[3545.40 --> 3549.44] and help us to support them with love, grace, and fellowship. -[3549.44 --> 3555.20] We praise you, God, for the blessings of anniversaries. -[3556.02 --> 3562.20] And we thank you, along with Pete and Doreen, that you have blessed them for 45 years together. -[3563.44 --> 3566.30] We ask that you will continue to bless and keep them. -[3566.30 --> 3572.38] We also pray for those marriages and relationships that struggle. -[3574.16 --> 3578.68] We pray for peace and grace in those relationships. -[3578.68 --> 3587.22] We also pray for Clem and Linda and Adrian and Sarah as they grieve the loss of Clem's mom, Annie. -[3589.42 --> 3595.92] Annie suffered for many years, and there is relief for Annie, but the whole family misses her greatly. -[3595.92 --> 3607.28] We continue to pray for peace and comfort for Tanya, Amanda's sister and Klaas' daughter, as she is now in hospice care. -[3608.98 --> 3611.22] Lord, we pray for peace and strength for her. -[3611.40 --> 3617.46] We also pray that Tanya can continue to trust in God's perfect plan and rest in his love. -[3617.46 --> 3623.76] We also pray for Doug, Alisa's dad, as he continues to battle cancer. -[3626.34 --> 3632.40] During this summertime, we thank God for the gift of rest and adventure and time with family. -[3633.04 --> 3636.66] We pray for safe travels and refreshing holidays. -[3639.84 --> 3644.72] We pray you will bless the ongoing ministries here in this church, Langley, Emmanuel. -[3644.72 --> 3656.16] We thank you for the gift of his family, of this family, and we ask that you will help us continue to grow in the love that only comes from you. -[3656.92 --> 3660.24] We pray that you will continue to walk beside our pastors. -[3661.50 --> 3664.42] Give them the wisdom and the spirit to lead us. -[3666.98 --> 3673.30] We thank you together with Pastor Kevin that you have led him to this point in his life of becoming fully ordained. -[3674.72 --> 3682.02] Father, we give you thanks for bringing us together as this community we call Emmanuel, God with us. -[3682.58 --> 3685.66] We pray that you will bless us in our worship and bless our fellowship. -[3687.84 --> 3690.06] We give you thanks for this place to meet. -[3690.66 --> 3698.20] We thank you, O God, for Christ's church as we know it and see it around the world and pray for your blessings on it. -[3698.20 --> 3702.28] We pray for those who are persecuted for your name. -[3703.80 --> 3708.84] And we ask that you will be with Chris as he leads us in your word this morning. -[3709.48 --> 3711.26] Pray that it will fill our hearts. -[3713.22 --> 3718.86] And we pray that you will pour out your spirit on him as he preaches that word here today. -[3718.86 --> 3725.82] Lord Almighty, the Lord Almighty is with us. -[3726.72 --> 3728.98] The God of Jacob is our fortress. -[3730.02 --> 3732.76] Come and see what the Lord has done. -[3734.00 --> 3736.22] The desolations he has brought on the earth. -[3736.90 --> 3739.84] He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth. -[3740.74 --> 3744.08] He breaks the bow and shatters the spear. -[3744.08 --> 3747.24] He burns the shields with fire. -[3748.44 --> 3752.22] He says, be still and know that I am God. -[3753.36 --> 3755.72] I will be exalted among the nations. -[3756.10 --> 3758.32] I will be exalted in the earth. -[3759.54 --> 3761.94] The Lord Almighty is with us. -[3762.18 --> 3765.06] The God of Jacob is our fortress. -[3766.34 --> 3769.36] All glory be to Christ our King. -[3770.36 --> 3772.98] All glory be to Christ. -[3774.08 --> 3776.78] In his name alone we pray. -[3777.38 --> 3777.72] Amen. -[3777.72 --> 3777.84] Amen. -[3793.04 --> 3798.80] We're going to spend a little time together looking at the Gospel of Matthew this summer. -[3799.04 --> 3802.48] We are in a series here going through the Gospel of Matthew. -[3802.48 --> 3805.48] So I'm going to invite you, if you have a Bible, to open it up. -[3805.56 --> 3809.32] We're going to read from Matthew 9, verse 35 to 38. -[3809.38 --> 3814.66] But we're really kind of reflecting on Matthew 8 through the end of Matthew 10. -[3815.02 --> 3819.50] And so it will be really helpful if you have a Bible in front of you and open, whether it's -[3819.50 --> 3822.98] on a device or if you'd like to grab one from the back, you can do that. -[3823.00 --> 3824.44] Or if you brought your own, excellent. -[3825.68 --> 3828.38] But we're going to spend our time there. -[3828.38 --> 3835.22] If you are a guest with us this morning, our summer series has been Behold Your King. -[3835.92 --> 3840.84] And we've called it that because we don't just want to learn about Jesus. -[3841.38 --> 3842.70] We want to see him. -[3843.62 --> 3844.88] To encounter him. -[3845.60 --> 3853.20] To see the Holy Spirit take the word from our minds to our hearts and then outlived by our hands. -[3853.20 --> 3858.14] To not just be informed, but transformed is one of the ways we've put it. -[3859.10 --> 3868.86] To behold and to worship, to set your heart's affections on Jesus so that you live with him and for him every day. -[3869.92 --> 3878.94] It's our conviction here that God's word is more than a story about the past, but actually through it, this is Jesus stepping into your present. -[3878.94 --> 3886.36] This is God entering into your imagination, shaping how you see the world. -[3887.64 --> 3898.54] This is the Holy Spirit inviting you this morning to let go of your little kingdom and to receive joy and security and freedom in Jesus' kingdom. -[3898.54 --> 3909.88] In the preaching of God's word, we believe that God himself draws near through his voice and that it's made effective by the Holy Spirit in your hearts. -[3910.30 --> 3917.14] So I invite you to pray that this morning as we begin and as we read from Matthew 9 together. -[3918.48 --> 3921.68] Matthew 9, starting at verse 35. -[3921.68 --> 3935.60] Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. -[3936.56 --> 3945.42] When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. -[3945.42 --> 3953.56] And then he said to his disciples, the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. -[3954.62 --> 3960.96] Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. -[3961.62 --> 3962.84] This is the word of the Lord. -[3962.84 --> 3977.26] I don't know if you've noticed this, but we live in a world that is deeply suspicious of authority. -[3979.00 --> 3984.08] Some of us feel like we've inherited a culture of suspicion. -[3985.82 --> 3990.56] And, if we're honest, some of us have contributed to it. -[3992.84 --> 4003.38] Because we don't trust an authority out there, the highest good in our world today is to be true to yourself in here. -[4004.56 --> 4007.66] And to live from the inside out. -[4008.88 --> 4015.26] Knowingly or not, we have internalized the slogans of the French Revolution that say, -[4015.38 --> 4016.58] No gods and no masters. -[4016.58 --> 4022.16] We've made a modern gospel of self-actualization. -[4022.64 --> 4023.90] Things like, you do you. -[4024.44 --> 4025.30] Live your truth. -[4025.44 --> 4028.54] Don't let anyone tell you who to be or how to be. -[4028.70 --> 4032.80] And we breathe in this message and messaging every day. -[4032.80 --> 4041.58] And the result is that the only real authority left is personal preference. -[4043.90 --> 4050.82] The only real authority left is the idea that if it feels good, it's valid. -[4052.18 --> 4055.66] And that if it offends me, it must be oppressive. -[4055.66 --> 4062.04] Now, Charles Taylor is a social psychologist, social philosopher. -[4062.64 --> 4065.54] He calls this the age of authenticity. -[4066.58 --> 4071.52] A time when authority is no longer something outside of us to obey, -[4071.92 --> 4074.56] but something inside of us to express. -[4075.94 --> 4079.52] And in that world, the idea of behold your king, -[4079.52 --> 4084.88] the idea of Jesus as king, doesn't feel like good news to many people. -[4084.88 --> 4086.42] It feels like a threat. -[4088.22 --> 4090.68] The modern self doesn't want a king. -[4090.94 --> 4092.40] The modern self wants a mirror. -[4093.64 --> 4095.34] The modern self wants a platform. -[4098.02 --> 4101.56] And yet, I know I felt it. -[4103.14 --> 4109.18] And if we're honest, this self-made freedom hasn't delivered what it promised. -[4109.18 --> 4110.08] Right? -[4110.08 --> 4114.08] We are more expressive than ever before, -[4114.28 --> 4117.74] but also more anxious and more isolated and more exhausted. -[4118.82 --> 4119.36] Right? -[4119.40 --> 4121.90] We're told to cast off all these old masters, -[4122.18 --> 4123.76] but we still don't feel free. -[4124.86 --> 4125.40] Right? -[4125.46 --> 4130.64] Our age has rejected God in favor of so-called personal health -[4130.64 --> 4132.24] and individual autonomy. -[4132.24 --> 4136.48] And not only have we lost God and never found personal health, -[4136.66 --> 4140.12] this individual autonomy that we've been looking for has only led to loneliness. -[4142.76 --> 4145.64] To paraphrase something I read earlier, -[4146.14 --> 4147.38] you've heard the phrase, -[4147.58 --> 4149.40] don't throw the baby out with the bathwater. -[4150.28 --> 4151.88] In this cultural moment, -[4151.88 --> 4156.22] it sort of seems like we've thrown out the baby in order to drink the bathwater. -[4156.22 --> 4162.30] One writer says that our standard of living has risen, -[4163.06 --> 4164.56] but so have our suicide rates. -[4165.74 --> 4168.02] We are smarter, but more uncertain than ever. -[4168.64 --> 4170.86] We are surrounded by pleasure, but less fulfilled. -[4171.54 --> 4173.54] Able to do almost anything, -[4173.68 --> 4177.14] but uncertain whether to do anything at all. -[4178.86 --> 4182.32] Jonathan Haidt is a social psychologist, -[4182.32 --> 4186.66] and coincidentally also not a Christian, -[4187.18 --> 4188.14] but in his book, -[4188.26 --> 4189.42] The Anxious Generation, -[4190.06 --> 4190.96] puts it this way. -[4191.04 --> 4191.50] He says, -[4192.44 --> 4195.24] the great irony of things like social media -[4195.24 --> 4198.18] is that the more you immerse yourself in it, -[4198.64 --> 4200.88] the more lonely and depressed you become. -[4203.36 --> 4203.56] Right? -[4203.60 --> 4204.76] Without ever knowing it, -[4205.26 --> 4206.92] we ache for something. -[4207.64 --> 4209.30] We ache for someone, -[4209.60 --> 4211.40] for something greater than ourselves. -[4211.40 --> 4213.44] Something strong enough, -[4213.52 --> 4214.98] or someone strong enough, -[4215.08 --> 4217.38] to calm the storms of our anxiety. -[4218.00 --> 4221.40] Compassionate enough to move towards us in our pain. -[4222.18 --> 4224.00] Wise enough to lead us. -[4224.32 --> 4226.98] We ache for a king who doesn't crush us, -[4227.06 --> 4228.62] but instead carries us. -[4229.18 --> 4231.68] Who doesn't collapse our perception of reality -[4231.68 --> 4233.76] into a sort of flat equality, -[4234.10 --> 4235.70] but actually deepens it, -[4235.82 --> 4238.80] and commissions us to go out into it, -[4238.88 --> 4240.36] with him and for him, -[4240.36 --> 4242.66] exploring the mystery of life, -[4243.02 --> 4243.50] and faith, -[4243.82 --> 4244.36] and God. -[4245.50 --> 4248.14] And that's exactly the kind of king -[4248.14 --> 4251.12] that Matthew wants us to see -[4251.12 --> 4252.30] in his gospel. -[4252.40 --> 4254.88] The kind of king that Jesus is. -[4256.16 --> 4256.62] Right? -[4256.70 --> 4258.14] The big idea here this morning -[4258.14 --> 4261.10] is that Jesus' authority over disease, -[4261.36 --> 4262.14] and demons, -[4262.38 --> 4263.02] and death, -[4263.02 --> 4264.72] confirms his mission, -[4264.88 --> 4266.70] confirms who he is, -[4266.90 --> 4268.14] and in doing so, -[4268.24 --> 4270.42] calls us to follow him. -[4272.44 --> 4273.74] If you want to know -[4273.74 --> 4276.06] what kind of king Jesus is, -[4276.48 --> 4277.94] Matthew shows us. -[4278.80 --> 4280.76] Not by telling you his ideas, -[4281.16 --> 4283.44] but by putting his power on full display. -[4284.70 --> 4284.84] Right? -[4284.84 --> 4286.96] This is not a king who rules from a distance. -[4287.08 --> 4288.36] He walks among his people. -[4288.36 --> 4290.02] He touches the sick. -[4290.16 --> 4291.38] He speaks to storms. -[4291.52 --> 4292.98] He rebukes demons, -[4293.18 --> 4294.02] forgives sins, -[4294.16 --> 4295.12] and raises the dead. -[4295.46 --> 4296.86] Everywhere he goes, -[4297.22 --> 4299.16] the kingdom of heaven breaks in. -[4300.28 --> 4302.08] Darkness is pushed back, -[4302.70 --> 4305.02] and creation itself starts to heal. -[4306.12 --> 4308.02] Jesus isn't just announcing a kingdom. -[4308.24 --> 4309.48] He's enacting one. -[4310.92 --> 4311.66] And so this morning, -[4312.30 --> 4313.20] behold your king. -[4313.20 --> 4315.80] What I would like us to do, -[4315.98 --> 4316.94] this is why I encourage you -[4316.94 --> 4317.86] to have a Bible open, -[4318.50 --> 4319.52] is to quickly, -[4319.70 --> 4321.22] we're going to scan through -[4321.22 --> 4322.88] these few chapters of Matthew -[4322.88 --> 4326.28] and trace the line of Jesus' authority -[4326.28 --> 4328.26] and see it for ourselves. -[4329.36 --> 4330.34] So Bible's open. -[4331.06 --> 4332.36] Start in chapter 8, -[4333.22 --> 4334.94] where we see and read -[4334.94 --> 4335.84] in this first place -[4335.84 --> 4337.80] that Jesus has authority -[4337.80 --> 4339.92] over disease, -[4340.36 --> 4341.62] over illnesses. -[4341.62 --> 4343.38] So chapter 8, -[4343.46 --> 4344.04] verse 3, -[4344.42 --> 4346.20] immediately he was cleansed -[4346.20 --> 4346.98] of leprosy. -[4347.66 --> 4348.58] Verse 13, -[4348.70 --> 4349.94] his servant was healed -[4349.94 --> 4350.80] at that moment. -[4351.74 --> 4352.42] Verse 15, -[4352.52 --> 4353.68] he touched her hand -[4353.68 --> 4355.46] and the fever left her. -[4356.38 --> 4357.90] He said to the paralyzed man, -[4358.00 --> 4358.36] get up, -[4358.48 --> 4359.02] take your mat, -[4359.10 --> 4359.64] and go home. -[4359.66 --> 4360.48] And the man got up -[4360.48 --> 4361.12] and went home. -[4361.34 --> 4362.72] And when the crowd saw this, -[4362.78 --> 4363.86] they were filled with awe -[4363.86 --> 4365.26] and they praised God. -[4365.26 --> 4367.22] Who had given such authority -[4367.22 --> 4367.84] to man? -[4368.92 --> 4369.96] Right in chapter 9, -[4369.96 --> 4371.42] to the woman who had -[4371.42 --> 4372.36] the blood disorder, -[4373.14 --> 4373.76] Jesus said, -[4374.08 --> 4375.14] take heart, daughter. -[4375.50 --> 4377.40] Your faith has healed you. -[4377.64 --> 4379.06] And the woman was healed -[4379.06 --> 4380.32] at that moment, -[4380.64 --> 4381.10] we read. -[4382.46 --> 4384.08] And in chapter 9, -[4384.14 --> 4384.66] verse 30, -[4385.00 --> 4386.24] he touched the eyes -[4386.24 --> 4387.34] of the blind man -[4387.34 --> 4388.62] and their sight -[4388.62 --> 4390.26] was restored. -[4390.90 --> 4392.00] Jesus has authority -[4392.00 --> 4393.40] over disease. -[4394.04 --> 4395.54] Jesus also has authority -[4395.54 --> 4396.98] over demons. -[4396.98 --> 4398.80] in chapter 8 again, -[4398.88 --> 4399.56] verse 17, -[4400.00 --> 4401.56] many who were demon-possessed -[4401.56 --> 4402.48] were brought to him -[4402.48 --> 4403.48] and he drove out -[4403.48 --> 4404.66] the spirits with a word. -[4405.62 --> 4406.62] We read the story -[4406.62 --> 4408.66] of him casting out demons -[4408.66 --> 4409.52] from two men -[4409.52 --> 4410.90] and the demons beg him -[4410.90 --> 4411.82] to send them -[4411.82 --> 4412.56] into the pigs. -[4413.12 --> 4413.70] And then the pigs -[4413.70 --> 4415.06] went into the whole herd -[4415.06 --> 4416.28] and that rushed down the hill -[4416.28 --> 4417.22] into the water -[4417.22 --> 4417.76] and drowned. -[4418.90 --> 4419.98] Jesus has authority -[4419.98 --> 4420.64] over disease -[4420.64 --> 4421.68] and over demons. -[4422.48 --> 4423.58] And we read -[4423.58 --> 4424.78] that Jesus has authority -[4424.78 --> 4426.10] over the natural world. -[4426.10 --> 4427.06] Again, -[4427.14 --> 4427.78] in chapter 8, -[4427.86 --> 4428.46] he got up, -[4428.64 --> 4429.48] rebuked the wind -[4429.48 --> 4430.14] and the waves -[4430.14 --> 4432.38] and it was completely calm. -[4433.70 --> 4434.56] Jesus has authority -[4434.56 --> 4435.18] over disease, -[4435.48 --> 4436.02] over demons, -[4436.18 --> 4437.28] over the natural world -[4437.28 --> 4439.28] and Jesus has the authority -[4439.28 --> 4441.20] to forgive sins. -[4442.30 --> 4442.94] We read, -[4443.52 --> 4444.94] when he saw their faith, -[4445.06 --> 4446.08] he said to the man, -[4446.52 --> 4447.78] take heart, son. -[4448.50 --> 4451.30] Your sins are forgiven. -[4451.30 --> 4454.46] And Jesus has authority -[4454.46 --> 4455.16] over death. -[4455.80 --> 4456.46] In chapter 9, -[4456.74 --> 4457.18] we read that -[4457.18 --> 4457.74] when the daughter -[4457.74 --> 4459.30] of the synagogue ruler died, -[4459.62 --> 4460.42] after the crowd -[4460.42 --> 4461.42] had been put outside, -[4461.56 --> 4462.22] he went in, -[4462.48 --> 4463.64] he took her by the hand -[4463.64 --> 4464.96] and she got up. -[4466.86 --> 4467.08] Right? -[4467.12 --> 4468.12] He has authority -[4468.12 --> 4469.10] over disease, -[4469.60 --> 4470.66] he has authority -[4470.66 --> 4471.52] over demons, -[4472.00 --> 4473.28] over the natural world, -[4473.40 --> 4474.32] he has the authority -[4474.32 --> 4475.34] to forgive sins -[4475.34 --> 4476.36] and he has authority -[4476.36 --> 4477.30] over death. -[4477.30 --> 4479.28] And because he has -[4479.28 --> 4480.62] all of that authority, -[4481.16 --> 4482.66] Jesus uses that authority -[4482.66 --> 4484.82] to send out his disciples. -[4485.08 --> 4485.60] And he says, -[4485.68 --> 4486.22] as we read, -[4486.54 --> 4487.96] the harvest is plentiful, -[4488.40 --> 4489.42] but the workers are few. -[4490.42 --> 4491.66] Ask the Lord of the harvest, -[4491.82 --> 4492.10] therefore, -[4492.20 --> 4493.06] to send workers -[4493.06 --> 4494.48] out into his field. -[4494.74 --> 4495.82] And then he shares -[4495.82 --> 4496.80] that authority -[4496.80 --> 4498.42] with his disciples. -[4499.10 --> 4500.26] Chapter 10, verse 1, -[4500.68 --> 4501.22] says that -[4501.22 --> 4502.92] he called his 12 disciples -[4502.92 --> 4503.50] to him -[4503.50 --> 4504.94] and gave them authority -[4504.94 --> 4506.92] to drive out impure spirits -[4506.92 --> 4508.72] to heal every disease -[4508.72 --> 4509.66] and sickness. -[4511.88 --> 4512.08] Right? -[4512.10 --> 4513.34] We're beginning to behold. -[4514.62 --> 4514.84] Right? -[4514.88 --> 4516.60] This is no ordinary teacher. -[4517.54 --> 4519.74] This is no mere miracle worker. -[4520.10 --> 4521.22] This is the king -[4521.22 --> 4522.96] walking among us, -[4523.70 --> 4524.74] wielding authority -[4524.74 --> 4526.76] that belongs to God alone. -[4527.66 --> 4527.86] Right? -[4527.92 --> 4528.68] Every healing, -[4528.88 --> 4529.70] every command, -[4529.88 --> 4531.24] every act of compassion -[4531.24 --> 4532.82] is a royal decree -[4532.82 --> 4535.06] that the kingdom of God -[4535.06 --> 4536.40] has come near. -[4536.92 --> 4538.10] The kingdom of God -[4538.10 --> 4538.64] has come near -[4538.64 --> 4539.80] and we begin now -[4539.80 --> 4541.26] to see it clearly. -[4542.42 --> 4542.54] Right? -[4542.62 --> 4544.36] Jesus has unmatched -[4544.36 --> 4547.06] real divine authority -[4547.06 --> 4548.34] over disease -[4548.34 --> 4549.02] and demons -[4549.02 --> 4549.64] and death -[4549.64 --> 4550.30] and nature, -[4550.62 --> 4551.32] over sin. -[4551.60 --> 4552.36] And his words -[4552.36 --> 4553.34] don't just teach, -[4553.50 --> 4554.12] they command, -[4554.50 --> 4555.66] they don't just explain, -[4555.82 --> 4557.74] they define reality. -[4558.48 --> 4559.18] His touch -[4559.18 --> 4560.30] doesn't just comfort, -[4560.62 --> 4561.50] it restores. -[4562.46 --> 4563.14] His presence -[4563.14 --> 4564.38] doesn't just inspire, -[4564.38 --> 4565.72] it transforms. -[4568.22 --> 4569.16] And yet, -[4570.16 --> 4572.36] there's a bit of a tension here. -[4572.84 --> 4573.08] Right? -[4575.14 --> 4576.78] Because we believe all that -[4576.78 --> 4579.44] and still, -[4580.06 --> 4581.66] life doesn't always -[4581.66 --> 4584.10] reflect that authority -[4584.10 --> 4585.98] in the ways that we expect. -[4587.26 --> 4587.76] Right? -[4587.88 --> 4589.08] Illness lingers. -[4589.08 --> 4591.96] storms rage, -[4592.46 --> 4594.20] loved ones die, -[4595.54 --> 4597.60] prayers go unanswered. -[4598.52 --> 4599.50] Deep down, -[4599.94 --> 4600.62] we ask, -[4601.26 --> 4602.54] if Jesus really has -[4602.54 --> 4603.42] all that authority, -[4603.60 --> 4603.90] pastor, -[4604.64 --> 4605.92] why is my life -[4605.92 --> 4607.14] still so full of pain? -[4609.04 --> 4610.44] Why is everything around me -[4610.44 --> 4611.10] still so broken? -[4611.10 --> 4613.70] And that's where -[4613.70 --> 4614.30] the heart begins -[4614.30 --> 4614.80] to wrestle. -[4616.60 --> 4617.98] And I suggest to you, -[4619.10 --> 4620.34] that is where -[4620.34 --> 4621.54] real discipleship -[4621.54 --> 4622.42] begins. -[4624.92 --> 4625.94] Because if Jesus -[4625.94 --> 4626.70] is king, -[4627.36 --> 4627.94] and I believe -[4627.94 --> 4628.54] with all my heart -[4628.54 --> 4629.02] that he is, -[4629.54 --> 4630.88] if he truly has -[4630.88 --> 4631.84] that kind of authority, -[4631.92 --> 4632.40] and I believe -[4632.40 --> 4633.52] that he really does, -[4633.94 --> 4635.26] then we also have to face -[4635.26 --> 4636.32] the deeper question, -[4637.44 --> 4637.60] right? -[4637.74 --> 4638.14] Not, -[4638.40 --> 4639.48] can he act? -[4639.48 --> 4639.84] But, -[4640.32 --> 4643.80] why doesn't he act -[4643.80 --> 4645.28] the way I want him to? -[4647.52 --> 4648.26] And it's not just -[4648.26 --> 4649.00] a question of faith, -[4649.06 --> 4650.06] it's a question of trust. -[4650.76 --> 4650.88] Right? -[4650.90 --> 4651.62] And in that moment, -[4651.72 --> 4652.94] it's a call to worship -[4652.94 --> 4654.90] even when we don't understand. -[4656.76 --> 4657.82] Jesus presents us -[4657.82 --> 4658.58] with a straightforward -[4658.58 --> 4660.56] truth in this moment. -[4661.42 --> 4661.70] Right? -[4662.46 --> 4662.90] Saying, -[4663.10 --> 4664.12] if you want a God -[4664.12 --> 4665.36] who is powerful enough -[4665.36 --> 4666.48] to heal your diseases -[4666.48 --> 4667.76] and to cast out demons, -[4667.76 --> 4669.16] a God who is powerful -[4669.16 --> 4670.20] enough to control -[4670.20 --> 4670.88] the seas -[4670.88 --> 4672.04] and all the chaoses -[4672.04 --> 4672.78] of your life, -[4672.90 --> 4674.18] if you want a Jesus -[4674.18 --> 4675.30] who can legitimately -[4675.30 --> 4676.58] forgive your sins, -[4676.86 --> 4678.26] who can raise the dead, -[4678.36 --> 4679.20] who can command -[4679.20 --> 4680.34] angel armies, -[4680.54 --> 4681.66] who can send out -[4681.66 --> 4682.90] waves of disciples, -[4684.78 --> 4685.24] in short, -[4685.32 --> 4686.22] if you want a Jesus -[4686.22 --> 4687.92] with that kind of authority -[4687.92 --> 4689.78] in and over the world, -[4690.78 --> 4693.00] you must also accept -[4693.00 --> 4694.48] a Jesus, -[4695.06 --> 4696.98] a God revealed in Jesus, -[4696.98 --> 4698.80] who is powerful enough, -[4699.44 --> 4700.30] infinite enough, -[4700.86 --> 4701.64] wise enough, -[4701.64 --> 4703.18] to have reasons -[4703.18 --> 4705.32] to let you endure -[4705.32 --> 4708.32] such hard things. -[4710.12 --> 4711.86] You can't have it both ways. -[4713.76 --> 4714.54] Tim Keller, -[4715.22 --> 4716.00] author and preacher -[4716.00 --> 4717.58] that I have a lot of respect for, -[4717.68 --> 4718.38] puts it this way. -[4718.46 --> 4718.80] He says, -[4718.80 --> 4720.88] if you have a God -[4720.88 --> 4721.60] great enough -[4721.60 --> 4722.68] and powerful enough -[4722.68 --> 4723.74] to be mad at -[4723.74 --> 4724.60] because he doesn't -[4724.60 --> 4725.60] stop your suffering, -[4726.36 --> 4727.74] you also have a God -[4727.74 --> 4728.48] who's great enough -[4728.48 --> 4729.38] and powerful enough -[4729.38 --> 4730.14] to have reasons -[4730.14 --> 4731.40] that you can't understand. -[4734.30 --> 4735.24] Here's the thing. -[4736.74 --> 4738.12] If you really believe -[4738.12 --> 4739.10] that Jesus has -[4739.10 --> 4740.38] this kind of authority -[4740.38 --> 4741.14] over sickness -[4741.14 --> 4741.74] and storms -[4741.74 --> 4742.24] and demons -[4742.24 --> 4742.68] and death, -[4742.88 --> 4743.86] over every sin, -[4744.70 --> 4746.08] then you have to -[4746.08 --> 4747.22] deal with the -[4747.22 --> 4748.70] possibly uncomfortable -[4748.70 --> 4750.04] truth that he doesn't -[4750.04 --> 4751.68] always use that authority -[4751.68 --> 4752.94] in the way we think -[4752.94 --> 4753.40] he should, -[4754.40 --> 4754.92] in the way that -[4754.92 --> 4755.86] we expect him to. -[4756.46 --> 4756.98] And that's where -[4756.98 --> 4758.36] this tension creeps in -[4758.36 --> 4759.56] because we want a king -[4759.56 --> 4761.34] who calms our storms, -[4761.50 --> 4763.06] who heals our pain, -[4763.14 --> 4764.50] who answers our prayers -[4764.50 --> 4765.90] in the way that we want -[4765.90 --> 4767.10] and when we want. -[4768.12 --> 4769.42] This has been a conversation -[4769.42 --> 4770.36] throughout the history -[4770.36 --> 4771.34] of the church. -[4772.52 --> 4773.36] The Christians -[4773.36 --> 4774.72] of the earliest church -[4774.72 --> 4776.78] understood this -[4776.78 --> 4779.28] experienced tension -[4779.28 --> 4781.10] and they insisted -[4781.10 --> 4782.42] over and over again -[4782.42 --> 4783.00] that God -[4783.00 --> 4784.34] is not just -[4784.34 --> 4785.62] bigger than us, -[4787.06 --> 4787.34] right? -[4787.44 --> 4787.64] Like, -[4788.36 --> 4789.10] but actually -[4789.10 --> 4789.78] that God is -[4789.78 --> 4791.08] beyond us -[4791.08 --> 4793.48] and that because of that -[4793.48 --> 4794.32] all of our language -[4794.32 --> 4794.80] for God, -[4794.90 --> 4795.90] the way we talk about God, -[4795.98 --> 4797.12] the way we experience God -[4797.12 --> 4798.30] has to be -[4798.30 --> 4798.96] what's called -[4798.96 --> 4799.88] analogical, -[4800.00 --> 4800.74] that is by way -[4800.74 --> 4801.50] of analogy, -[4802.58 --> 4802.82] right? -[4802.92 --> 4803.76] And so we learn -[4803.76 --> 4804.76] that we can describe -[4804.76 --> 4805.50] him truly -[4805.50 --> 4807.32] but we can never -[4807.32 --> 4808.40] describe him fully. -[4809.68 --> 4810.44] That's what we mean -[4810.44 --> 4810.88] when we say -[4810.88 --> 4812.40] our language is by analogy. -[4812.76 --> 4813.90] We can describe him truly -[4813.90 --> 4815.36] but never fully, -[4816.48 --> 4816.62] right? -[4816.66 --> 4817.22] And in that, -[4817.34 --> 4818.70] God is not just -[4818.70 --> 4819.32] the biggest -[4819.32 --> 4820.68] and best version -[4820.68 --> 4821.54] of us, -[4822.32 --> 4823.36] right? -[4823.40 --> 4823.78] Instead, -[4824.06 --> 4825.18] God is the creator. -[4825.86 --> 4827.00] God is the only -[4827.00 --> 4828.40] uncreated one, -[4828.60 --> 4830.78] the only infinite one. -[4830.78 --> 4832.56] One of my favorite -[4832.56 --> 4833.74] authors right now, -[4833.80 --> 4834.50] he put it this way, -[4834.56 --> 4834.84] he said, -[4835.18 --> 4836.18] it would be strange -[4836.18 --> 4837.40] indeed if God -[4837.40 --> 4838.26] were not strange. -[4840.46 --> 4841.08] That's why -[4841.08 --> 4842.04] Saint Augustine, -[4842.34 --> 4843.22] a fourth century -[4843.22 --> 4843.96] church father, -[4844.34 --> 4845.18] said it this way, -[4845.42 --> 4845.68] he said, -[4845.78 --> 4846.96] if you understand it, -[4847.42 --> 4848.44] it is not God. -[4850.52 --> 4851.46] In other words, -[4852.12 --> 4853.38] if every part of your life -[4853.38 --> 4853.96] with God -[4853.96 --> 4854.70] makes sense, -[4855.16 --> 4856.24] if your theology -[4856.24 --> 4857.60] never surprises you, -[4857.60 --> 4858.66] if God never -[4858.66 --> 4859.68] unsettles you, -[4860.16 --> 4861.08] if your prayers -[4861.08 --> 4862.02] always get answered -[4862.02 --> 4862.94] in ways that feel -[4862.94 --> 4863.68] good to you, -[4864.48 --> 4865.50] you might not be -[4865.50 --> 4866.86] dealing with -[4866.86 --> 4867.52] the real God. -[4869.90 --> 4872.06] Behold your king. -[4873.00 --> 4874.30] He is powerful enough -[4874.30 --> 4875.40] to calm the storm -[4875.40 --> 4876.96] and wise enough -[4876.96 --> 4878.26] to let you go through it. -[4879.74 --> 4881.60] And because he is God, -[4881.68 --> 4882.70] not one of us, -[4882.96 --> 4884.08] he doesn't owe us -[4884.08 --> 4884.90] an explanation -[4884.90 --> 4885.78] beyond, -[4886.04 --> 4887.04] I am God, -[4887.04 --> 4888.04] there is no one -[4888.04 --> 4888.62] like me, -[4888.90 --> 4889.68] I am good. -[4891.18 --> 4892.12] And yet, -[4892.62 --> 4894.26] he doesn't give us -[4894.26 --> 4894.88] an explanation, -[4895.20 --> 4895.62] he gives us -[4895.62 --> 4896.20] something better, -[4896.56 --> 4896.72] right? -[4896.76 --> 4897.62] He gives us Jesus. -[4900.18 --> 4900.62] Jesus, -[4900.78 --> 4901.36] God himself -[4901.36 --> 4902.06] who came down -[4902.06 --> 4902.80] into this world, -[4902.90 --> 4903.66] who lived the life -[4903.66 --> 4904.30] I should have lived, -[4904.52 --> 4905.42] who died the death -[4905.42 --> 4905.92] that I deserve, -[4906.14 --> 4907.56] who stood in my place -[4907.56 --> 4907.98] and said, -[4908.30 --> 4909.66] you belong to me, -[4910.30 --> 4911.08] come what may, -[4911.76 --> 4912.68] no matter what storm -[4912.68 --> 4913.16] you face, -[4913.20 --> 4914.78] I will never let you go. -[4914.86 --> 4915.40] No matter who -[4915.40 --> 4916.36] in your life dies -[4916.36 --> 4918.02] and wrecks your circumstance, -[4918.18 --> 4920.04] I will never let you go. -[4920.20 --> 4921.16] No matter what valley -[4921.16 --> 4922.18] of the shadow of death -[4922.18 --> 4922.76] you walk through -[4922.76 --> 4923.92] or dark night of the soul, -[4924.28 --> 4925.06] Jesus says, -[4925.28 --> 4927.56] I will never let you go. -[4929.82 --> 4930.94] Behold your king. -[4931.90 --> 4932.92] He is God. -[4933.36 --> 4934.42] He has authority -[4934.42 --> 4935.36] to heal disease, -[4935.50 --> 4936.16] to send demons -[4936.16 --> 4936.82] back to hell, -[4936.94 --> 4937.66] to bring order -[4937.66 --> 4938.34] out of chaos -[4938.34 --> 4939.40] and to raise the dead, -[4939.40 --> 4941.78] and he is God enough -[4941.78 --> 4943.72] to let you endure -[4943.72 --> 4944.52] the storm. -[4945.84 --> 4946.72] He is God -[4946.72 --> 4948.48] and you are not. -[4949.02 --> 4950.16] If everything God did -[4950.16 --> 4951.14] or didn't do -[4951.14 --> 4952.28] made sense to us, -[4952.42 --> 4953.12] he would cease -[4953.12 --> 4953.74] to be God. -[4956.28 --> 4957.18] Now this way -[4957.18 --> 4958.88] of relating to God, -[4958.96 --> 4959.86] of understanding -[4959.86 --> 4960.94] however feebly -[4960.94 --> 4961.98] it may be -[4961.98 --> 4963.26] who God is, -[4963.66 --> 4965.66] this way of seeing God -[4965.66 --> 4967.08] has changed the way -[4967.08 --> 4968.48] that I relate to him. -[4970.26 --> 4970.94] And so yeah, -[4971.02 --> 4971.74] I will pray -[4971.74 --> 4972.26] for God -[4972.26 --> 4973.34] to end my trial, -[4974.06 --> 4975.76] but then I will also pray -[4975.76 --> 4976.46] that he causes me -[4976.46 --> 4977.04] to persevere. -[4978.56 --> 4979.54] I have learned -[4979.54 --> 4980.14] to pray -[4980.14 --> 4980.86] for healing -[4980.86 --> 4981.92] in my life -[4981.92 --> 4982.48] or in the life -[4982.48 --> 4982.84] of people -[4982.84 --> 4983.44] that I love, -[4984.28 --> 4985.96] but I am also -[4985.96 --> 4986.68] learning to pray -[4986.68 --> 4987.50] for strength -[4987.50 --> 4988.46] to wait -[4988.46 --> 4989.54] in God's wisdom. -[4991.18 --> 4991.62] Right? -[4991.64 --> 4992.84] When God feels hidden, -[4993.16 --> 4994.36] I pray for eyes -[4994.36 --> 4995.28] to see God -[4995.28 --> 4995.76] at work, -[4995.90 --> 4996.88] but I also pray -[4996.88 --> 4997.44] for a heart -[4997.44 --> 4998.20] that trusts -[4998.20 --> 4999.34] when I can't see him. -[5000.90 --> 5002.12] And when I find myself -[5002.12 --> 5002.98] falling prey -[5002.98 --> 5003.86] to the gospel -[5003.86 --> 5004.56] of self, -[5005.42 --> 5006.42] I invite God -[5006.42 --> 5007.12] to break me, -[5007.66 --> 5008.80] to humble me. -[5009.54 --> 5010.80] When I make confession -[5010.80 --> 5012.20] that I have placed myself -[5012.20 --> 5013.42] back on the throne -[5013.42 --> 5014.36] of my life, -[5014.50 --> 5015.38] I will literally -[5015.38 --> 5016.86] in my Holy Spirit -[5016.86 --> 5017.58] imagination -[5017.58 --> 5018.84] envision Christ -[5018.84 --> 5019.68] walking up -[5019.68 --> 5020.32] to the throne -[5020.32 --> 5021.14] which looks remarkably -[5021.14 --> 5021.90] like my heart -[5021.90 --> 5023.36] and cleaning it off, -[5023.58 --> 5024.54] cleansing it anew, -[5024.86 --> 5025.32] and then have, -[5025.56 --> 5026.54] I envision Christ -[5026.54 --> 5028.04] sitting down there -[5028.04 --> 5029.26] on that rightful place -[5029.26 --> 5029.88] again, -[5030.06 --> 5030.86] and I bow -[5030.86 --> 5032.36] before him. -[5037.58 --> 5038.72] All of this -[5038.72 --> 5040.62] puts us -[5040.62 --> 5041.78] in one of two places -[5041.78 --> 5042.92] this morning. -[5044.18 --> 5045.44] Can you behold -[5045.44 --> 5046.02] your king? -[5047.54 --> 5048.78] Or do you not yet -[5048.78 --> 5049.22] see him? -[5049.22 --> 5052.50] And if you do not -[5052.50 --> 5053.24] yet see him, -[5055.02 --> 5056.06] if you haven't yet -[5056.06 --> 5057.38] known him, -[5058.34 --> 5059.76] ask him this morning -[5059.76 --> 5060.68] to show himself -[5060.68 --> 5061.74] to you. -[5062.72 --> 5063.76] Put your whole heart -[5063.76 --> 5064.46] and mind -[5064.46 --> 5065.50] into finding him, -[5065.76 --> 5067.04] into hearing his voice. -[5068.50 --> 5070.12] Hang out with church people -[5070.12 --> 5070.74] for a year -[5070.74 --> 5071.86] and go to whatever class -[5071.86 --> 5072.62] they put on -[5072.62 --> 5074.06] and be there -[5074.06 --> 5075.14] asking good questions -[5075.14 --> 5077.94] and see what God can do. -[5077.94 --> 5081.34] read his word. -[5082.18 --> 5083.26] Listen to his people. -[5084.40 --> 5085.24] And if you're stuck -[5085.24 --> 5086.32] in a stubborn heart -[5086.32 --> 5087.54] that is still confessing -[5087.54 --> 5088.08] no gods, -[5088.16 --> 5088.68] no masters, -[5088.94 --> 5090.12] if maybe the gospel -[5090.12 --> 5090.48] of, -[5090.76 --> 5091.70] the modern gospel -[5091.70 --> 5092.94] of self-actualization -[5092.94 --> 5094.28] hasn't failed you yet -[5094.28 --> 5095.62] and it will fail you, -[5096.32 --> 5097.18] but maybe you're not -[5097.18 --> 5097.66] there yet, -[5098.40 --> 5100.94] if you're not here yet -[5100.94 --> 5102.16] to see and hear -[5102.16 --> 5103.96] Jesus as your king, -[5103.96 --> 5106.36] can I just say -[5106.36 --> 5107.74] I'm so glad -[5107.74 --> 5108.52] that you are here. -[5110.12 --> 5111.44] I'm so excited -[5111.44 --> 5112.40] that you have -[5112.40 --> 5113.54] taken the risk -[5113.54 --> 5114.74] to be with us -[5114.74 --> 5115.78] this morning. -[5117.00 --> 5118.06] And if that's you, -[5118.30 --> 5119.26] I want to talk to you. -[5120.34 --> 5120.70] Honestly, -[5120.80 --> 5121.88] Dave wants to talk to you. -[5123.16 --> 5123.94] Any of us -[5123.94 --> 5124.98] who call this church home -[5124.98 --> 5126.24] want to talk to you -[5126.24 --> 5127.44] and walk with you -[5127.44 --> 5128.90] and answer your questions. -[5129.02 --> 5129.82] We are a place -[5129.82 --> 5130.62] where you can ask -[5130.62 --> 5131.30] your questions. -[5132.42 --> 5132.92] Our questions -[5132.92 --> 5133.76] will never run out -[5133.76 --> 5135.40] and so neither will -[5135.40 --> 5136.20] our time for them. -[5138.68 --> 5139.60] But this, -[5140.36 --> 5142.46] this Jesus -[5142.46 --> 5143.96] has authority -[5143.96 --> 5145.08] over disease -[5145.08 --> 5146.10] and demons -[5146.10 --> 5147.24] and the natural world. -[5147.98 --> 5149.58] This is Jesus -[5149.58 --> 5150.82] and he has authority -[5150.82 --> 5151.92] to forgive sins -[5151.92 --> 5153.22] and to raise the dead. -[5153.90 --> 5154.88] This is Jesus -[5154.88 --> 5156.12] and he has the wisdom -[5156.12 --> 5157.68] to let you endure -[5157.68 --> 5158.88] and the grace -[5158.88 --> 5160.48] to persevere you, -[5160.58 --> 5162.02] to preserve you -[5162.02 --> 5163.78] in that trial. -[5165.64 --> 5166.38] And if you're -[5166.38 --> 5167.30] in that other place, -[5168.08 --> 5168.22] right, -[5168.24 --> 5169.28] if you can make -[5169.28 --> 5170.02] that profession, -[5170.16 --> 5172.08] if that is what you believe, -[5172.18 --> 5173.44] if you do behold -[5173.44 --> 5174.46] your king today, -[5174.62 --> 5175.80] there are two things -[5175.80 --> 5177.04] for you to do. -[5178.50 --> 5179.02] First, -[5180.02 --> 5180.80] chapter 9, -[5180.94 --> 5181.48] verse 8. -[5182.16 --> 5183.20] We read this already. -[5183.20 --> 5184.66] When the crowds -[5184.66 --> 5185.62] saw this, -[5185.98 --> 5186.68] they were filled -[5186.68 --> 5187.38] with awe -[5187.38 --> 5188.60] and they praised -[5188.60 --> 5189.80] God who had given -[5189.80 --> 5190.90] such authority -[5190.90 --> 5192.04] to man. -[5194.18 --> 5194.38] Right, -[5194.42 --> 5195.42] the first response -[5195.42 --> 5196.06] that you have -[5196.06 --> 5197.02] in seeing Jesus -[5197.02 --> 5197.48] this way -[5197.48 --> 5198.12] is to worship. -[5199.16 --> 5200.32] To worship him -[5200.32 --> 5200.96] with awe -[5200.96 --> 5202.34] and to praise his name. -[5203.22 --> 5204.00] And so just a moment -[5204.00 --> 5204.74] when we sing -[5204.74 --> 5206.60] our song of response, -[5206.76 --> 5207.64] sing a little louder, -[5207.84 --> 5208.26] would you? -[5209.48 --> 5209.94] Right, -[5209.94 --> 5210.52] and then carry -[5210.52 --> 5211.18] that worship -[5211.18 --> 5212.14] into tomorrow. -[5213.40 --> 5214.18] May your work, -[5214.52 --> 5215.16] your parenting, -[5215.48 --> 5216.18] your playing, -[5216.54 --> 5217.62] your camping, -[5217.82 --> 5218.84] and your kayaking, -[5219.12 --> 5219.76] whatever it is -[5219.76 --> 5220.34] that you do, -[5220.54 --> 5221.38] may it be filled -[5221.38 --> 5222.10] with worship. -[5223.36 --> 5224.24] Sing songs -[5224.24 --> 5225.76] with all of your life -[5225.76 --> 5227.02] and may your life -[5227.02 --> 5228.10] sing songs. -[5230.80 --> 5231.66] And second, -[5232.18 --> 5233.80] as we read, -[5234.52 --> 5235.34] ask the Lord -[5235.34 --> 5235.92] of the harvest -[5235.92 --> 5236.86] to send workers -[5236.86 --> 5238.12] out into the harvest -[5238.12 --> 5238.86] field. -[5241.86 --> 5242.46] Pray -[5242.46 --> 5244.22] for God's mission -[5244.22 --> 5245.36] to the neighborhood -[5245.36 --> 5246.66] and to the world. -[5247.46 --> 5249.00] Pray that in our midst -[5249.00 --> 5249.68] today, -[5250.02 --> 5251.22] maybe even right now, -[5251.44 --> 5252.50] God would raise up -[5252.50 --> 5253.26] missionaries -[5253.26 --> 5254.16] and pastors -[5254.16 --> 5255.50] and evangelists -[5255.50 --> 5256.44] and preachers -[5256.44 --> 5257.76] to go into the world -[5257.76 --> 5258.44] and to declare -[5258.44 --> 5259.40] the praises of him -[5259.40 --> 5260.32] who brought you -[5260.32 --> 5260.80] and me -[5260.80 --> 5261.62] out of darkness -[5261.62 --> 5262.56] and into his -[5262.56 --> 5263.24] wonderful light. -[5263.24 --> 5265.18] And when you see -[5265.18 --> 5265.84] that gift -[5265.84 --> 5267.32] in a young man -[5267.32 --> 5267.92] or woman, -[5268.08 --> 5269.10] would you encourage them? -[5271.46 --> 5272.00] Then, -[5272.72 --> 5274.80] be the answer -[5274.80 --> 5275.54] to your prayer. -[5277.16 --> 5277.38] Right? -[5277.46 --> 5278.38] You yourself -[5278.38 --> 5279.68] be a worker -[5279.68 --> 5280.70] who understands -[5280.70 --> 5281.30] that the harvest -[5281.30 --> 5282.10] is plentiful. -[5283.28 --> 5283.42] Right? -[5283.48 --> 5286.08] In your own ways, -[5286.58 --> 5287.92] God is commissioning -[5287.92 --> 5289.18] each one of you -[5289.18 --> 5290.42] to be a worker -[5290.42 --> 5291.38] in the harvest. -[5292.46 --> 5293.42] To be a Christian, -[5293.64 --> 5293.84] right, -[5293.88 --> 5294.58] is to share -[5294.58 --> 5295.42] in the anointing -[5295.42 --> 5295.96] of Christ -[5295.96 --> 5297.14] and to be sent -[5297.14 --> 5298.42] as he was sent. -[5299.70 --> 5300.68] And as we heard -[5300.68 --> 5301.30] this morning, -[5302.66 --> 5304.60] even the littlest -[5304.60 --> 5305.86] among us -[5305.86 --> 5307.16] are called -[5307.16 --> 5307.96] with that mission. -[5309.60 --> 5310.52] Dave said -[5310.52 --> 5311.24] he's here -[5311.24 --> 5312.40] because his daughter -[5312.40 --> 5312.88] was having -[5312.88 --> 5313.54] a conversation -[5313.54 --> 5314.50] with their friends -[5314.50 --> 5315.52] about Jesus. -[5317.42 --> 5317.94] Guys, -[5318.52 --> 5319.74] why are some of us -[5319.74 --> 5320.34] scared to have -[5320.34 --> 5320.84] conversations -[5320.84 --> 5321.44] with our friends -[5321.44 --> 5322.04] about Jesus? -[5322.84 --> 5323.60] Out of the mouths -[5323.60 --> 5324.10] of children -[5324.10 --> 5325.10] and infants, -[5325.22 --> 5326.42] you have ordained praise. -[5327.78 --> 5328.66] Maybe some of us -[5328.66 --> 5329.22] need to be more -[5329.22 --> 5329.72] like children -[5329.72 --> 5330.78] in our faith again. -[5332.36 --> 5333.72] Sharing this testimony. -[5334.52 --> 5335.38] Inviting people -[5335.38 --> 5336.84] to see Jesus. -[5337.08 --> 5337.78] Inviting people -[5337.78 --> 5339.66] to receive Jesus. -[5342.54 --> 5343.28] I'm going to be -[5343.28 --> 5343.94] candid with you. -[5345.20 --> 5346.10] The devil hates -[5346.10 --> 5346.84] days like today. -[5346.84 --> 5349.48] He hates moments -[5349.48 --> 5350.10] like this. -[5351.64 --> 5353.64] This is the mission -[5353.64 --> 5354.82] of the church. -[5355.68 --> 5356.76] This is what happens -[5356.76 --> 5357.64] when we see -[5357.64 --> 5358.56] Jesus -[5358.56 --> 5359.28] worship, -[5359.88 --> 5360.28] pray, -[5360.48 --> 5361.28] and go. -[5362.28 --> 5363.46] This is -[5363.46 --> 5364.32] Jesus. -[5364.94 --> 5365.56] Behold -[5365.56 --> 5366.44] your -[5366.44 --> 5367.52] king. -[5368.38 --> 5368.70] Amen. -[5369.54 --> 5370.70] Let's pray together. -[5370.70 --> 5370.76] Amen. -[5370.76 --> 5370.82] Amen. -[5370.82 --> 5371.26] Amen. -[5371.26 --> 5371.32] Amen. -[5371.32 --> 5371.76] Amen. -[5371.76 --> 5371.82] Amen. -[5371.82 --> 5372.76] Amen. -[5372.76 --> 5372.82] Amen. -[5372.82 --> 5372.86] Amen. -[5372.86 --> 5376.82] Amen. -[5376.82 --> 5378.66] Jesus, -[5379.46 --> 5382.28] move in power -[5382.28 --> 5383.10] among us -[5383.10 --> 5383.58] that we might -[5383.58 --> 5384.46] behold you -[5384.46 --> 5385.44] right now. -[5386.42 --> 5387.42] Open the eyes -[5387.42 --> 5387.98] of our heart -[5387.98 --> 5388.48] that we might -[5388.48 --> 5389.20] see you. -[5389.84 --> 5390.60] Give us eyes -[5390.60 --> 5391.14] of faith -[5391.14 --> 5391.64] and hearts -[5391.64 --> 5392.26] that trust -[5392.26 --> 5392.98] that we might -[5392.98 --> 5393.88] know your -[5393.88 --> 5394.98] nearness here -[5394.98 --> 5396.12] in this moment. -[5397.34 --> 5397.86] May this -[5397.86 --> 5399.06] sanctuary space -[5399.06 --> 5400.20] be a sacred space -[5400.20 --> 5400.78] where the kingdom -[5400.78 --> 5401.58] of heaven breaks -[5401.58 --> 5402.66] through just a little -[5402.66 --> 5403.60] bit more right now. -[5403.60 --> 5403.70] man. -[5406.14 --> 5406.96] And as we -[5406.96 --> 5407.78] stand together, -[5408.44 --> 5409.50] as we sing -[5409.50 --> 5409.96] together, -[5410.32 --> 5410.98] may our song -[5410.98 --> 5411.68] be just a little -[5411.68 --> 5412.14] bit louder. -[5412.82 --> 5413.92] As we proclaim -[5413.92 --> 5414.50] together, -[5414.80 --> 5415.56] may our testimony -[5415.56 --> 5416.50] be just a little -[5416.50 --> 5417.14] bit bolder. -[5419.24 --> 5420.14] And as we -[5420.14 --> 5420.52] come, -[5421.56 --> 5422.46] may we see -[5422.46 --> 5423.14] you. -[5424.46 --> 5425.34] And as we -[5425.34 --> 5425.70] go, -[5426.14 --> 5426.82] may we go -[5426.82 --> 5428.08] with you. -[5428.08 --> 5429.08] You -[5429.08 --> 5430.08] are -[5430.92 --> 5431.90] the king. -[5431.90 --> 5434.50] you -[5434.50 --> 5435.50] I -[5435.50 --> 5436.16] will -[5436.16 --> 5436.62] follow. -[5437.12 --> 5437.80] In Jesus' -[5437.98 --> 5438.20] name, -[5438.96 --> 5439.30] amen. -[5440.46 --> 5441.00] Amen. -[5441.00 --> 5443.00] Amen. -[5471.00 --> 5473.00] Amen. -[5501.00 --> 5506.48] I repented of my sin, Christ won the victory. -[5509.34 --> 5515.82] Oh, victory in Jesus, my Savior forever. -[5516.64 --> 5523.50] He sought me and brought me with His redeeming blood. -[5523.50 --> 5530.74] He loved me, I knew Him, and all my love is due Him. -[5531.00 --> 5537.78] He plunged me to victory beneath the cleansing flood. -[5540.04 --> 5546.48] I heard about His healing, all His miracles revealing. -[5546.48 --> 5553.48] That He alone can save a soul and set the captive free. -[5553.48 --> 5561.38] I am happy in His promise, how soon He's coming for us. -[5561.72 --> 5567.66] And home with Him I'll seek again, Christ won the victory. -[5567.66 --> 5576.66] Oh, victory in Jesus, my Savior forever. -[5576.66 --> 5584.88] He sought me and brought me with His redeeming blood. -[5584.88 --> 5592.02] He loved me, I knew Him, and all my love is due Him. -[5592.02 --> 5599.66] He plunged me to victory beneath the cleansing flood. -[5599.66 --> 5604.44] I'll tell the old, old story. -[5604.44 --> 5608.00] Tonight, Savior's counting glory. -[5608.00 --> 5615.10] I'll tell all the glory has done to set this sinner free. -[5615.10 --> 5622.64] That all will be leading, by faith, will receive Him. -[5622.64 --> 5628.94] And share in our redemption, Son, Christ won the victory. -[5628.94 --> 5638.38] Oh, victory in Jesus, my Savior forever. -[5638.38 --> 5645.98] He sought me and brought me with His redeeming blood. -[5645.98 --> 5653.02] He loved me, I knew Him, and all my love is due Him. -[5653.02 --> 5661.34] He plunged me to victory beneath the cleansing flood. -[5661.34 --> 5676.42] God is God, God is good, and He goes with us. -[5676.82 --> 5679.10] Receive the blessing of our good God. -[5679.90 --> 5682.40] God, go before you to lead you. -[5682.86 --> 5685.08] God, go behind you to protect you. -[5685.38 --> 5687.42] God, go beneath you to support you. -[5687.74 --> 5690.46] And God, go beside you to befriend you. -[5690.46 --> 5693.24] Do not be afraid. -[5693.74 --> 5695.80] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5695.94 --> 5702.46] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5703.26 --> 5703.60] Amen. -[5703.60 --> 5703.78] Amen. -[5707.78 --> 5713.92] Should nothing of our efforts stand, -[5714.26 --> 5717.98] No legacy survive, -[5717.98 --> 5725.18] Unless the Lord does raise the house, -[5725.18 --> 5730.40] In vain His builders strive. -[5730.40 --> 5736.48] To you who close tomorrow's day, -[5736.82 --> 5741.72] Tell me, what is your life? -[5741.72 --> 5754.92] All glory be to Christ. -[5754.92 --> 5757.76] All glory be to Christ, -[5758.00 --> 5763.62] All glory be to Christ. -[5763.62 --> 5768.82] His rule and reign will ever sing, -[5768.82 --> 5774.60] All glory be to Christ. -[5776.82 --> 5781.92] His will be on His kingdom come, -[5782.10 --> 5785.32] On earth as His above. -[5785.32 --> 5786.52] Who is His love, -[5786.52 --> 5788.52] Who is His love, -[5788.52 --> 5789.02] Who is His love, -[5789.02 --> 5791.04] Our daily bread, -[5791.28 --> 5792.66] Praise Him, -[5792.66 --> 5794.52] The Lord above. -[5794.52 --> 5799.72] Let living water satisfy, -[5799.72 --> 5803.72] The thirsty with our prize. -[5803.72 --> 5807.72] We'll take a cup of kindness, -[5807.72 --> 5808.92] All glory be to Christ. -[5808.92 --> 5812.92] All glory be to Christ. -[5812.92 --> 5816.92] All glory be to Christ. -[5816.92 --> 5820.92] All glory be to Christ. -[5820.92 --> 5825.92] His rule and reign will ever sing, -[5825.92 --> 5830.92] All glory be to Christ. -[5830.92 --> 5835.12] In all the day, -[5835.12 --> 5838.92] The great and the faithful, -[5838.92 --> 5841.32] And the truth, -[5841.32 --> 5845.12] The Lamb who was for sinners, -[5845.12 --> 5846.00] Sink, -[5846.12 --> 5849.12] Is making all things live. -[5850.12 --> 5851.12] Behold, -[5851.12 --> 5854.12] Our God shall live with us, -[5854.12 --> 5858.12] And be our strength of sight. -[5858.12 --> 5863.12] And we shall let His people be, -[5863.12 --> 5867.12] All glory be to Christ. -[5867.12 --> 5871.12] All glory be to Christ. -[5871.12 --> 5871.72] For Him, -[5871.72 --> 5875.12] All glory be to Christ. -[5875.12 --> 5880.12] His rule and reign will ever sing, -[5880.12 --> 5885.12] All glory be to Christ. -[5885.12 --> 5889.12] All glory be to Christ our King. -[5889.12 --> 5894.12] All glory be to Christ. -[5894.12 --> 5899.12] His rule and reign will ever sing, -[5899.12 --> 5906.12] All glory be to Christ. -[5910.12 --> 5912.12] Often day live, -[5912.12 --> 5915.12] Any of your fears and john słungs are country to fall. -[5915.12 --> 5917.12] 7 sets of men will ever sing, -[5917.12 --> 5920.12] All glory be to Christ. -[5920.12 --> 5923.12] Theodore Myers at the first time is the need. -[5923.12 --> 5926.12] No perception is considered a contributor. -[5926.12 --> 5956.10] Thank you. -[5956.12 --> 5984.16] Thank you, Megan. -[5986.12 --> 6016.10] Thank you. -[6016.12 --> 6046.10] Thank you. -[6046.12 --> 6076.10] Thank you. -[6076.12 --> 6106.10] Thank you. -[6106.12 --> 6136.10] Thank you. -[6136.12 --> 6166.10] Thank you. -[6166.12 --> 6196.10] Thank you. -[6196.12 --> 6226.10] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, July 6, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, July 6, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6e6ce67dfdeb0089f9014aead9f3151e912d0d66..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, July 6, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,147 +0,0 @@ -• Introductory prayers and thanksgiving -• Communion invocation for the congregation's spiritual protection and guidance -• Worship song about the majesty of God, including lyrics praising His holiness and power -• Invitation to worship and sing praises to God -• Offerings collection for church ministries and Seeds of Hope Ministry -• Discussion about a song or prayer with repeated phrases "Jesus have it all" -• Introduction by Ken, an elder at Emanuel Church -• Announcements: - • Next week's service will include communion - • Alvin and Lisa's wedding is this Friday -• Discussion about classes on the Heidelberg Catechism, specifically focusing on the Lord's Prayer -• Invitation to children to participate in a blessing before going to children's worship time -• Praying for spiritual growth and submission to God's will -• Requesting healing and preservation of Emmanuel Church -• Asking for guidance and wisdom for church leaders and members -• Praying for physical health, including Tanya, Doug, and others with illnesses or injuries -• Seeking help for mental health struggles, such as grief, depression, and addiction -• Praying for employment and financial stability -• Supporting individuals on vacation or attending a Bible camp -• Asking God to strengthen marriages and bless newlyweds -• Expressing gratitude and asking forgiveness for sins and wrongdoings -• The speaker reflects on a prayer led by Ken, noting its timeless and living nature. -• The importance of recognizing God's authority and listening to His voice is emphasized. -• The speaker introduces the gospel according to Matthew, which will be explored further in the sermon. -• The passage reads from Matthew 3:13-4:11, describing Jesus' baptism and testing in the wilderness. -• The opening of heaven and the descent of the Spirit of God on Jesus -• Jesus is tempted by Satan in the wilderness for 40 days, with three specific temptations: turning stones to bread, throwing himself down from a high place, and worshiping Satan in exchange for power -• Jesus resists each temptation with quotes from scripture, saying not to test God and to worship only the Lord their God -• The devil leaves Jesus and angels attend him -• Discussion about identity and self-definition, with people searching for answers to "who am I" and feeling pressure to define themselves through relationships, performances, and self-expression -• The voice of self-doubt and inadequacy is loud in many people's heads -• This voice can be confirmed by others, making it even louder -• People long to hear words of affirmation and approval from parents, teachers, or coaches -• When these words are absent, people try to fill the void through performance, numbing themselves, or seeking validation online -• Despite these efforts, there is a deep-down ache for genuine acceptance and connection with others -• The fear of never being good enough or worthy of love drives people's actions and decisions -• Identity crisis and self-identity -• Need for direction on being oneself -• Paradox of pride and despair in identity search -• Longing for a love that cannot be lost -• Question of what it means to be a child of God -• Waiting to hear God's voice and find identity -• Jesus' message to step forward and stand where sinners stand -• Baptism as a profession of faith and acknowledgment of belonging to God -• John's question to Jesus about baptism by water for repentance -• John the Baptist's doubts and concerns about being worthy of baptism -• The importance of genuine repentance as a change in thinking, feeling, and doing right -• Jesus' response to John's doubts, stating it is proper for him to fulfill all righteousness through baptism -• The contrast between those who produce fruit in keeping with repentance and those who are chaff, destined for judgment -• The connection between repentance, righteousness, and baptism -• The difference between John's and Jesus' baptisms -• John's role as a minister of an outward sign vs. Christ's spiritual act -• The reality that Christ brings through the Spirit -• The concept that believers are baptized into Christ's body -• Discussion of Romans 6:4 and its relation to baptism -• Quoting from Calvin on Christ's reasons for receiving baptism -• Explanation of the significance of Jesus' baptism, including the Holy Spirit descending and the Father speaking from heaven -• Clarifying the nature of Christ and the Trinity -• Baptism as a means of becoming sons/daughters of God -• Repentance, faith, and union with Jesus as ways to be considered God's children -• The relationship between God's voice and identification of one as His child -• The King speaks to the listener -• After baptism, Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness -• He was not led for comfort or celebration, but for testing -• Jesus was tempted by the Devil, but he was ready and walked the path of the True Son, unlike Adam and Israel who failed to walk their respective paths -• Jesus faces temptations related to his identity and obedience -• Satan challenges Jesus' trust in God's word -• Jesus is tempted to turn stones into bread to meet human needs -• Jesus is tempted to worship Satan instead of God -• Jesus is offered the kingdom without the cross, but rejects it -• The concept of temptation and faithfulness -• Being tempted vs being one who cannot fail -• Deception by the devil in various forms (e.g. "If you are God's daughter, do this" or "Put it to the test") -• Jesus' nature and actions as a test for believers -• Trusting in God even when difficult situations arise -• Jesus gives thanks where Adam reached out for what was forbidden -• Jesus refuses what is offered and stands firm against temptation -• The main idea is to stand in obedience, righteousness, and faithfulness like Jesus did -• Jesus' stance is contrasted with Israel's grumbling and refusal to listen -• The point of the teaching is not just about doing right, but about being sons/daughters of God who are loved by Him -• Jesus resists temptation in the wilderness -• He stands as a representative, empowered by God's word -• His obedience fulfills all righteousness and secures our salvation -• Righteousness is not just about avoiding sin but actively securing salvation through obedience -• Jesus' obedience to God's will is shown in both his life and death -• The gospel is made real for us today -• We are not defined by our sin or temptations -• We have a Savior who has fulfilled all righteousness and gives it freely to those who trust in Him alone -• Our performance and actions do not determine our standing with God, but His obedience and sacrifice do -• Jesus' statement to the Father about being pleased with Jesus -• The role of baptism in providing righteousness -• Alyssa's profession and its connection to the Gospel -• John Chrysostom, a fourth-century church father -• The question posed by John Chrysostom regarding heavenly reward -• The importance of not running to the serpent (worldly desires) after receiving spiritual guidance -• The call for total life change and surrender to God's spirit -• Embracing the spirit of God versus being consumed by worldly desires -• Comparing a relationship with God to a hobby, implying it is not something optional or added on -• Critique of how many people approach their relationship with God like a hobby -• Becoming a YouTube streamer for a career -• Earning one's father's approval -• Adding Jesus to the top of lists (e.g. things you can't add) -• Modern people's approach to Jesus and discipleship -• Why simply adding Jesus is not enough -• The importance of genuine, consistent commitment to following Jesus -• Jesus' message and its relation to producing fruit -• The importance of repentance in line with God's plan -• The difference between modern cultural values and biblical teachings on authority -• Historical context of Christianity's rise from minority to approved religion under the Christian Empire -• Challenges faced by early Christians in maintaining distinct identities under persecution -• Desert Fathers -• Intentional removal from culture and society -• Solitude in the desert as a spiritual practice -• Influence of cultural surroundings on spirituality -• The concept of a "monkish impulse" -• Examples of modern-day individuals embracing monasticism or solitude for spiritual purposes -• The speaker mentions the Benedictine Rule as an ancient book that guides monasteries and monks on how to live their daily lives. -• The speaker suggests adopting a monastic rule of life to learn what it means to live in harmony with God's will. -• The speaker believes that living a disciplined, austere life can be deeply restful and just like growing fruit on a tree. -• The speaker uses the image of a monastery to illustrate how one's entire life can become an act of prayer. -• Following Jesus is not convenient or quick, but takes time and effort. -• Being a disciple of Jesus requires listening to God even when it's hard. -• Sacrificial living and generosity are essential in following Jesus. -• In today's culture that idolizes busyness, choosing rest can be seen as interference. -• True spirituality involves vulnerability and confession. -• The importance of repentance in producing spiritual fruit -• The need to die to self and follow Jesus -• Taking up the cross and following after Him -• Remembering that Jesus endured testing and succeeded where we fail -• Understanding God's authority and inheritance in heaven and on earth -• The promise of being monkish in a messy world, and not hustling for identity or idols -• Jesus is more than a hobby, make Him your master -• The voice of God says "You are my son" and "You are my daughter" -• Let's go today and live as sons and daughters of the King -• Pray to God to revive our hearts, minds, and imaginations -• Open our eyes to see Jesus, so we might behold Him in His glory -• Worship and praise to God -• Request for revival and cleansing from sin -• Expression of love and fire from above -• Commission to proclaim Jesus' kingdom -• Assurance of God's presence and protection on a journey -• Encouragement not to be afraid but to go in peace and serve the Lord -• Repeated chanting of "My Redeemer Lives" -• References to spiritual growth and transformation -• Mention of a mountain top and kingdom coming -• Personal pronouns used ("my", "you") in context of faith or relationship with God/Higher Power -• Miscellaneous phrases and sounds that appear to be nonsensical or unrelated \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, July 6, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, July 6, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 996f10b90bd57fc739762664237a4f8661ebea9c..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, July 6, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3452 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[479.98 --> 509.96] Thank you. -[509.96 --> 539.94] Thank you. -[539.96 --> 569.94] Thank you. -[569.96 --> 599.92] Thank you. -[599.92 --> 599.94] -[629.92 --> 659.90] Thank you. -[659.90 --> 689.88] Thank you. -[689.88 --> 719.86] Thank you. -[719.88 --> 749.86] Thank you. -[749.86 --> 779.84] Thank you. -[779.84 --> 809.82] Thank you. -[809.82 --> 839.80] Thank you. -[839.80 --> 869.78] Thank you. -[869.80 --> 899.78] Thank you. -[899.78 --> 929.76] Thank you. -[929.76 --> 959.74] Thank you. -[959.74 --> 989.72] Thank you. -[989.72 --> 1019.70] Thank you. -[1019.70 --> 1049.68] Thank you. -[1049.68 --> 1079.66] Thank you. -[1079.68 --> 1109.66] Thank you. -[1109.68 --> 1139.66] Thank you. -[1139.68 --> 1169.66] Thank you. -[1169.68 --> 1199.66] Thank you. -[1199.68 --> 1229.66] Thank you. -[1229.68 --> 1259.66] Thank you. -[1259.68 --> 1289.66] Thank you. -[1289.66 --> 1319.64] Thank you. -[1319.64 --> 1349.62] Thank you. -[1349.64 --> 1379.62] Thank you. -[1379.62 --> 1409.60] Thank you. -[1409.60 --> 1439.58] Thank you. -[1439.60 --> 1469.58] Thank you. -[1469.60 --> 1499.58] Thank you. -[1499.58 --> 1529.56] Thank you. -[1529.56 --> 1559.54] Thank you. -[1559.54 --> 1589.52] Thank you. -[1589.52 --> 1619.50] Thank you. -[1619.50 --> 1649.50] Thank you. -[1649.50 --> 1679.50] Thank you. -[1679.50 --> 1709.50] Thank you. -[1709.50 --> 1739.48] Thank you. -[1739.48 --> 1769.46] Thank you. -[1769.48 --> 1799.48] -[1799.48 --> 1829.46] Thank you. -[1829.48 --> 1859.48] Thank you. -[1859.48 --> 1889.48] And do you. -[1889.48 --> 1919.48] Thank you. -[1919.48 --> 1949.48] Thank you. -[1949.48 --> 1979.48] Amen. -[1979.48 --> 2009.48] -[2009.48 --> 2039.48] Thank you. -[2039.48 --> 2069.46] Thank you. -[2069.58 --> 2099.46] Thank you. -[2099.46 --> 2105.04] her good shepherd into your care, that she may loyally endure opposition in serving you, -[2106.44 --> 2113.02] and that she may stand firm in the faith that she has professed this morning. And may we, -[2113.02 --> 2120.50] with all your children, live together in the joy and power of your Holy Spirit. We ask this, -[2120.70 --> 2126.66] Lord Jesus, in the hope of your coming again and in the power of your great name, and all God's -[2126.66 --> 2136.52] people said, amen, amen. Alyssa, thank you for this. God bless, and welcome to the Church's Fellowship. -[2156.66 --> 2163.18] Please rise and sing with us. -[2163.18 --> 2193.16] Who else commands all the hosts of heaven? Who else could make every king back? -[2193.16 --> 2203.88] Who else can whisper and darkness trembles? Only a holy God. -[2205.96 --> 2216.12] What other beauty demands such praises? What other splendor outshines the sun? -[2216.12 --> 2226.12] What other majesty rules with justice? Only a holy God. -[2226.12 --> 2244.94] Come and behold him, the one and the only. Cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[2244.94 --> 2248.92] Come and worship the holy God. -[2248.92 --> 2278.90] Come and worship the holy God. -[2278.90 --> 2308.88] Come and behold him, the one and the only. -[2308.88 --> 2315.88] Cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[2315.88 --> 2319.88] Come and worship the holy God. -[2319.88 --> 2321.88] Who else could rescue me from my failing? -[2321.88 --> 2326.88] Who else could rescue me from my failing? -[2326.88 --> 2328.88] Who else could offer his only Son? -[2328.88 --> 2330.88] Who else could rescue me from my failing? -[2330.88 --> 2337.88] Who else would offer his only Son? -[2337.88 --> 2349.88] who else could rescue me from my failing who else would offer his only son -[2349.88 --> 2364.12] who else invites me to call him father only a holy God only my holy God -[2364.12 --> 2380.36] come and behold him the one and the only cry out sing holy forever a holy God -[2380.36 --> 2393.88] come and worship the holy God come and behold him the one and the only -[2394.12 --> 2406.12] cry out sing holy forever a holy God come and worship the holy God -[2406.12 --> 2434.12] so we're going to take some time now to give back because the Lord has blessed us so freely so this morning we have two offerings of course the first is to the ministries of this church -[2434.12 --> 2456.12] so if you want to give to the budget or those ministries you will want to designate that either in your e-transfer or in the slips that you can find in your seats and the special offering today is for seeds of hope ministry which they have an office out in Chilliwack but their ministry started in Southeast Asia and they work primarily with children who have been affected by HIV AIDS so it started working with orphaned children and street children who were infected and then they work with the -[2456.12 --> 2468.12] children who have since grown their ministry into Africa and other family ministry so thank you for giving generously to their work -[2468.12 --> 2496.12] Jesus have my heart my will -[2496.12 --> 2498.12] my soul -[2498.12 --> 2499.12] my soul -[2499.12 --> 2500.12] my soul -[2500.12 --> 2504.12] Jesus have my hopes my dreams my world -[2504.12 --> 2506.12] the joy I lay it down -[2506.12 --> 2508.12] the joy I cast my crown -[2508.12 --> 2512.12] Jesus have it all -[2512.12 --> 2518.12] and it all -[2518.12 --> 2522.12] I lay it down -[2522.12 --> 2524.12] Jesus have it down -[2524.12 --> 2526.12] Jesus have it all -[2526.12 --> 2528.12] Jesus have it all -[2528.12 --> 2532.12] Jesus have it all -[2532.12 --> 2535.08] have it all -[2536.68 --> 2546.76] jesus have it all jesus have it all to you belong the glory the praise of all the world -[2547.40 --> 2559.88] jesus have it all jesus have it all a blessing and honor majesty and all jesus have it all -[2562.12 --> 2573.56] jesus have your church your love your bride the joy for which we freely gave your life -[2573.56 --> 2581.00] radiant in white washed and purified jesus have it all -[2581.00 --> 2594.52] jesus have your worth your due your sum the praise of every nation tribe and tongue -[2594.52 --> 2602.44] let all that has been made glorify your name jesus have it all -[2602.44 --> 2613.00] all jesus have it all jesus have it all jesus have it all -[2613.00 --> 2617.82] the praise of all the world Jesus -[2617.82 --> 2622.02] have it all Jesus have it all -[2622.02 --> 2625.02] blessing -[2625.02 --> 2628.02] majesty -[2628.02 --> 2631.02] Jesus -[2631.02 --> 2633.00] have it all -[2633.00 --> 2636.00] you belong the glory -[2636.00 --> 2638.00] praise of all the world -[2638.00 --> 2641.00] Jesus have it all -[2641.00 --> 2643.00] Jesus have it all -[2643.62 --> 2646.00] blessing and honor -[2646.00 --> 2649.06] majesty and all -[2649.06 --> 2653.00] Jesus have it all -[2653.00 --> 2659.00] Jesus have it all -[2659.00 --> 2662.00] all my days -[2662.00 --> 2665.00] all my life -[2665.00 --> 2669.00] have it all -[2669.00 --> 2673.00] all my days -[2673.00 --> 2675.00] all my life -[2675.00 --> 2679.00] have it all -[2679.00 --> 2683.00] all my days -[2683.00 --> 2685.00] all my life -[2685.00 --> 2689.00] have it all -[2689.00 --> 2700.40] All my days, all my life, have it all -[2719.00 --> 2725.10] Excellent. Let's everyone follow Dawson's example -[2725.10 --> 2731.58] We're looking for kids preschool to kind of kindergarten aged -[2731.58 --> 2733.96] And really anyone else who wants to come up -[2733.96 --> 2740.64] We're going to do a blessing as those youngest among us head out to children's worship time -[2740.64 --> 2743.52] And we're going to do that blessing together -[2743.52 --> 2746.34] So I'm going to get you guys, Andy, do it, stay up here -[2746.34 --> 2750.62] I'm going to get you guys right away, let's stand up together -[2750.62 --> 2754.82] Come on up to the front, come this way and then everyone can see us -[2754.82 --> 2759.64] Okay, we're going to stand, you guys may also stand as well -[2759.64 --> 2763.40] We're going to together say the Lord be with you -[2763.40 --> 2767.06] And then we'll invite you to respond by saying and also with you -[2767.06 --> 2774.42] After we give the blessing, you guys can calmly and collectively walk down the aisle together to the back -[2774.42 --> 2777.44] Ready? Together? -[2778.10 --> 2780.32] The Lord be with you -[2780.32 --> 2782.18] And also with you -[2782.18 --> 2782.54] Amen -[2782.54 --> 2789.78] That was -[2789.78 --> 2803.72] Good morning -[2803.72 --> 2805.66] My name is Ken -[2805.66 --> 2810.00] I'm an elder at the end of my term here at Emanuel Church -[2810.00 --> 2815.00] But I'll be doing the church family prayer and leading us in prayer this morning -[2815.00 --> 2818.60] I just want to make a quick announcement for next week -[2818.60 --> 2821.38] Our service next week will include communion -[2821.38 --> 2823.06] We'll be gathering around the table together -[2823.06 --> 2829.40] And I just encourage everyone to take a little time this week to think about and prepare your hearts for that -[2829.40 --> 2832.98] Also, an announcement, it wasn't in the bulletin -[2832.98 --> 2838.16] But we're excitedly anticipating with Alvin and Lisa their wedding this Friday -[2838.16 --> 2841.26] They will be getting married this Friday in a private ceremony -[2841.26 --> 2848.14] And we just pray for them and encourage them as they prepare for this and head into their marriage -[2848.14 --> 2849.32] And we pray for that as well -[2849.32 --> 2852.70] And yeah, before we go into our prayer -[2852.70 --> 2858.66] I just want to draw a note to some of the content in this prayer -[2858.66 --> 2863.20] We have the classes that we've been doing on the Heidelberg Catechism -[2863.20 --> 2866.54] Kind of a reading discussion group while the youth were doing HCBC -[2866.54 --> 2872.24] And it was a really good time of getting together and kind of pouring over and looking at the detail of some of the Heidelberg Catechism -[2872.24 --> 2877.14] And the last 10 or so Lord's Days focus in on the Lord's Prayer -[2877.14 --> 2881.66] And I found it really neat to kind of open up the hood and look inside the Lord's Prayer -[2881.66 --> 2885.18] A little more slowly than we tend to as we roll through it -[2885.18 --> 2889.30] And kind of study some of the detail of what's meant by the words of the Lord's Prayer -[2889.30 --> 2893.82] So you'll hear that wrapped into and rolled into our prayer as we pray this morning -[2893.82 --> 2895.00] Let us pray -[2895.00 --> 2900.20] Our Father in Heaven, hallowed be your name -[2900.20 --> 2904.84] You alone are worthy of all honor, glory, and praise -[2904.84 --> 2908.18] We come to you this morning as your children -[2908.18 --> 2912.98] Knowing, Father, that just as our parents do not refuse us the things of this life -[2912.98 --> 2917.62] You most certainly will not refuse to give us what we ask for in true faith -[2917.62 --> 2921.04] Help us to know you deeply, Lord -[2921.04 --> 2926.80] And to see your almighty power, wisdom, kindness, justice, mercy, and truth -[2926.80 --> 2929.02] Which shine through all your works -[2929.02 --> 2933.08] Help us live lives that never blaspheme your name -[2933.08 --> 2937.00] But may your name be honored and praised throughout our lives -[2937.00 --> 2939.60] Lord, let your kingdom come -[2939.60 --> 2945.58] Rule us by your word and spirit in such a way that more and more we submit to you -[2945.58 --> 2950.04] We ask that you preserve your church and make it grow -[2950.04 --> 2952.18] Destroy the devil's work -[2952.18 --> 2955.28] Everything that does not follow you and your word -[2955.28 --> 2959.44] Until your kingdom comes fully and you are all in all -[2959.44 --> 2963.64] May your will be done on earth as it is in heaven -[2963.64 --> 2968.60] Help us reject our own wills and obey your good will alone -[2968.60 --> 2973.84] Help us willingly and faithfully carry out the work we are called to do -[2973.84 --> 2976.28] We pray for Emmanuel Church -[2976.28 --> 2978.60] That you would guide the ministries of this church -[2978.60 --> 2982.10] And put your will for this church deeply rooted in our hearts -[2982.10 --> 2984.72] We pray for the leaders of our church -[2984.72 --> 2987.86] The pastors, ministry leaders, elders, and deacons -[2987.86 --> 2991.94] That you would mold us like jars of clay to carry out your will -[2991.94 --> 2997.58] We boldly pray that our mission to spread the gospel would extend beyond this church -[2997.58 --> 3000.68] And that each of us here would faithfully answer the call -[3000.68 --> 3006.02] To share the love of Christ with our neighbors, co-workers, and all who you put in our path -[3006.02 --> 3011.26] Help us boldly profess our salvation in Christ alone -[3011.26 --> 3015.72] We praise you, Lord, for the profession of faith of Alyssa this morning -[3015.72 --> 3018.68] And the faith that you have given her as her savior -[3018.68 --> 3020.98] Guide her with your truth -[3020.98 --> 3025.34] And surround her with a community that encourages and supports her faith journey -[3025.34 --> 3028.82] Give us this day, Lord, our daily bread -[3028.82 --> 3033.54] Help us know that you are the only source of everything good -[3033.54 --> 3039.68] And that neither our work and worry, nor your gifts, can do us any good without your blessing -[3039.68 --> 3042.92] Help us trust in you alone, Lord -[3042.92 --> 3045.26] We pray for our physical health -[3045.26 --> 3047.92] Heal us from diseases in our bodies -[3047.92 --> 3050.80] We lift up Tanya, who is in hospice -[3050.80 --> 3053.66] Please continue to give her peace and strength -[3053.66 --> 3055.88] And times of joy with loved ones -[3055.88 --> 3059.16] Help her feel your nearness throughout this journey -[3059.16 --> 3062.58] We pray for Doug, who continues to battle cancer -[3062.58 --> 3066.84] Give him the strength to press on and all he stands in need of -[3066.84 --> 3070.02] We pray for Tessa and rejoice with her -[3070.02 --> 3072.80] As her chemo is complete and she is feeling better -[3072.80 --> 3077.56] We pray that you give her patience as she waits for future scan results -[3077.56 --> 3081.90] We are also grateful that Clary's sister Joan is feeling well -[3081.90 --> 3085.92] And we pray for your healing hand on her throughout her cancer journey -[3085.92 --> 3089.90] Lord, we also pray for your healing mercies -[3089.90 --> 3092.62] As many of us deal with various mental health struggles -[3092.62 --> 3098.50] Lord, carry us and our burdens of grief, depression, sadness, and addiction -[3098.50 --> 3101.66] As we walk through the darkest valleys -[3101.66 --> 3107.70] Replace our fear with the comfort that you are our good shepherd who never leaves us -[3107.70 --> 3110.52] We pray for those who are underemployed -[3110.52 --> 3114.70] That we would find opportunities to use the gifts you have given us -[3114.70 --> 3118.98] We also lift up those who are taking vacations from their work this summer -[3118.98 --> 3122.36] That you would give us safety, if it may be, with travel -[3122.36 --> 3126.28] And rest from the routines of the regular rhythms of our work -[3126.28 --> 3131.08] We pray for all who are attending Warm Beach Bible Camp this weekend -[3131.08 --> 3133.92] May it be a time of deep spiritual growth -[3133.92 --> 3139.08] With renewing hearts, building friendships, and drawing everyone closer to you, Lord -[3139.08 --> 3142.56] Bless the leaders with wisdom and energy -[3142.56 --> 3146.56] And the youth with open hearts to receive all you have for them -[3146.56 --> 3148.98] Lord, we pray for our marriages -[3148.98 --> 3150.74] That you would strengthen them -[3150.74 --> 3154.32] And help us to model the love of Christ for the church -[3154.32 --> 3156.78] And the love of the church for Christ -[3156.78 --> 3158.60] With each other in our marriages -[3158.60 --> 3161.54] Lord, we pray for Alvin and Lisa -[3161.54 --> 3163.40] As they will be married this Friday -[3163.40 --> 3165.90] And as they enter into their life of marriage -[3165.90 --> 3167.54] Lord, would you bless them -[3167.54 --> 3168.66] And be near to them -[3168.66 --> 3170.82] And may their marriage be centered on you alone -[3170.82 --> 3173.56] Lord, forgive us our debts -[3173.56 --> 3176.28] As we also have forgiven our debtors -[3176.28 --> 3178.70] Because of Christ's blood -[3178.70 --> 3180.52] Do not hold against us -[3180.52 --> 3181.98] Poor sinners that we are -[3181.98 --> 3184.06] Any of the sins we do -[3184.06 --> 3187.08] Or the evil that constantly clings to us -[3187.08 --> 3190.34] Forgive us just as we are fully determined -[3190.34 --> 3191.68] To forgive our neighbors -[3191.68 --> 3195.24] Let the forgiveness we extend to our neighbors -[3195.24 --> 3197.88] Be evidence of your grace in us -[3197.88 --> 3200.82] And Lord, lead us not into temptation -[3200.82 --> 3203.04] But deliver us from the evil one -[3203.04 --> 3206.60] By ourselves, we are too weak to hold on our own -[3206.60 --> 3207.82] Even for a moment -[3207.82 --> 3209.90] And our sworn enemies -[3209.90 --> 3213.02] Namely the devil, the world, and our own flesh -[3213.02 --> 3214.78] Never stop attacking us -[3214.78 --> 3217.06] And so, Lord, uphold us -[3217.06 --> 3218.20] And make us strong -[3218.20 --> 3220.04] With the strength of your Holy Spirit -[3220.04 --> 3222.66] So that we may not go down to defeat -[3222.66 --> 3223.94] In this spiritual struggle -[3223.94 --> 3226.32] But we may firmly resist our enemies -[3226.32 --> 3229.02] Until we finally win the complete victory -[3229.02 --> 3231.94] Lord, we lift up your world -[3231.94 --> 3233.80] As it groans with wars -[3233.80 --> 3235.96] Famine, wildfire, floods -[3235.96 --> 3237.96] Father, we acknowledge -[3237.96 --> 3239.78] That all authority is yours -[3239.78 --> 3240.96] And comes from you alone -[3240.96 --> 3242.84] We pray for world leaders -[3242.84 --> 3244.82] That when tensions rise -[3244.82 --> 3246.24] Your truth withdraw them -[3246.24 --> 3247.38] Toward your kingdom -[3247.38 --> 3250.24] For the kingdom and the power -[3250.24 --> 3251.84] And the glory are yours forever -[3251.84 --> 3254.86] We have made all these petitions of you -[3254.86 --> 3257.78] Because as our all-powerful king -[3257.78 --> 3259.80] You are both willing and able -[3259.80 --> 3261.28] To give us all that is good -[3261.28 --> 3263.80] We do not deserve any recognition -[3263.80 --> 3265.12] On our own merit, Lord -[3265.12 --> 3267.10] But by your holy name -[3267.10 --> 3269.46] You should receive all the praise forever -[3269.46 --> 3272.66] As Pastor Chris brings us your message this morning -[3272.66 --> 3274.44] Help us to hear your voice -[3274.44 --> 3275.34] Your word -[3275.34 --> 3276.32] And your truth -[3276.32 --> 3278.68] Lord, truly and surely -[3278.68 --> 3280.08] You listen to our prayers -[3280.08 --> 3282.74] We recognize that it is even more sure -[3282.74 --> 3284.24] That you listen to our prayers -[3284.24 --> 3286.38] Than it is that we really desire -[3286.38 --> 3287.30] What we pray for -[3287.30 --> 3290.42] And so, in the name of Jesus Christ alone -[3290.42 --> 3291.74] We pray all this -[3291.74 --> 3292.34] Amen -[3292.34 --> 3315.84] I know Ken said it before he started praying -[3315.84 --> 3316.26] But -[3316.26 --> 3324.62] What Ken just did in that prayer -[3324.62 --> 3326.62] I want to note as we come to the word -[3326.62 --> 3331.82] Ken took an almost 500-year-old expression -[3331.82 --> 3335.76] Of an almost 2,000-year-old prayer -[3335.76 --> 3338.94] And made it imminently present -[3338.94 --> 3343.14] That's the church, friends -[3343.14 --> 3345.66] That's the body of believers -[3345.66 --> 3348.68] That's the living tradition -[3348.68 --> 3350.68] Of a faith alive -[3350.68 --> 3353.62] That's what we stand in -[3353.62 --> 3354.64] When we gather for worship -[3354.64 --> 3358.10] A deeply rooted -[3358.10 --> 3361.36] And historical activity -[3361.36 --> 3363.34] Of a living God -[3363.34 --> 3364.76] Who draws us to himself -[3364.76 --> 3367.16] And that living God -[3367.16 --> 3368.58] Is still speaking to us -[3368.58 --> 3369.94] And he does so through his word -[3369.94 --> 3373.66] This morning, we're going to continue -[3373.66 --> 3376.72] In our look at the gospel -[3376.72 --> 3377.86] According to Matthew -[3377.86 --> 3380.26] And we're doing this this summer -[3380.26 --> 3382.22] Under a particular banner -[3382.22 --> 3384.00] Of behold your king -[3384.00 --> 3386.98] Because this is less about -[3386.98 --> 3388.80] Learning something new -[3388.80 --> 3391.78] And more about seeing Jesus -[3391.78 --> 3395.20] I mean, I hope you learn something -[3395.20 --> 3398.12] But I hope more than that -[3398.12 --> 3399.70] That learning draws you -[3399.70 --> 3402.06] Into the presence of our Savior -[3402.06 --> 3404.64] And that by these words -[3404.64 --> 3406.12] You might hear God's word -[3406.12 --> 3407.68] And that in hearing God's word -[3407.68 --> 3409.88] You might see his son -[3409.88 --> 3412.18] Our Savior and king -[3412.18 --> 3414.80] And so let's read this morning -[3414.80 --> 3416.40] That Jesus might be revealed -[3416.40 --> 3417.32] To our hearts -[3417.32 --> 3420.26] As we look at the stories -[3420.26 --> 3421.40] Of Jesus' baptism -[3421.40 --> 3423.70] And his testing in the wilderness -[3423.70 --> 3425.60] I'm going to read -[3425.60 --> 3426.82] From chapter 3 -[3426.82 --> 3428.14] Starting at verse 13 -[3428.14 --> 3429.70] And we'll read through -[3429.70 --> 3431.68] Chapter 4, verse 11 -[3431.68 --> 3433.60] Let's read together -[3433.60 --> 3437.86] Then Jesus came from Galilee -[3437.86 --> 3438.70] To the Jordan -[3438.70 --> 3440.20] To be baptized by John -[3440.20 --> 3443.18] But John tried to deter him -[3443.18 --> 3446.72] Saying, I need to be baptized -[3446.72 --> 3447.70] By you -[3447.70 --> 3449.82] And do you come to me? -[3450.86 --> 3451.96] And Jesus replied -[3451.96 --> 3453.66] Let it be so now -[3453.66 --> 3456.02] It is proper for us to do this -[3456.02 --> 3457.88] To fulfill all righteousness -[3457.88 --> 3460.16] Then John consented -[3460.16 --> 3463.62] As soon as Jesus was baptized -[3463.62 --> 3465.52] He went up out of the water -[3465.52 --> 3466.86] And at that moment -[3466.86 --> 3468.12] Heaven was opened -[3468.12 --> 3470.18] And he saw the Spirit of God -[3470.18 --> 3471.92] Descending like a dove -[3471.92 --> 3473.28] And alighting on him -[3473.28 --> 3475.42] And a voice from heaven said -[3475.42 --> 3477.50] This is my Son -[3477.50 --> 3479.58] Whom I love -[3479.58 --> 3481.30] With him -[3481.30 --> 3483.58] I am well pleased -[3483.58 --> 3487.40] Then Jesus was led -[3487.40 --> 3488.12] By the Spirit -[3488.12 --> 3489.14] Into the wilderness -[3489.14 --> 3490.24] To be tempted -[3490.24 --> 3492.80] Tempted -[3492.80 --> 3493.76] By the devil -[3493.76 --> 3496.92] After fasting 40 days -[3496.92 --> 3498.02] And 40 nights -[3498.02 --> 3498.92] He was hungry -[3498.92 --> 3501.50] The tempter came to him -[3501.50 --> 3502.10] And said -[3502.10 --> 3504.68] If you are the Son of God -[3504.68 --> 3506.08] Tell these stones -[3506.08 --> 3507.00] To become bread -[3507.00 --> 3509.62] Jesus answered -[3509.62 --> 3511.00] It is written -[3511.00 --> 3512.42] Man shall not live -[3512.42 --> 3513.34] On bread alone -[3513.34 --> 3514.74] But on every word -[3514.74 --> 3515.66] That comes -[3515.66 --> 3516.86] From the mouth of God -[3516.86 --> 3519.60] Then the devil -[3519.60 --> 3520.24] Took him -[3520.24 --> 3521.84] To the holy city -[3521.84 --> 3522.84] And had him stand -[3522.84 --> 3523.88] On the highest point -[3523.88 --> 3524.52] Of the temple -[3524.52 --> 3526.70] If you are the Son of God -[3526.70 --> 3527.16] He said -[3527.16 --> 3528.56] Throw yourself down -[3528.56 --> 3529.72] For it is written -[3529.72 --> 3531.56] But he will command -[3531.56 --> 3532.24] His angels -[3532.24 --> 3533.22] Concerning you -[3533.22 --> 3534.96] And they will lift you up -[3534.96 --> 3535.72] In their hands -[3535.72 --> 3537.44] So that you will not -[3537.44 --> 3538.46] Strike your foot -[3538.46 --> 3539.34] Against a stone -[3539.34 --> 3541.88] Jesus answered him -[3541.88 --> 3543.84] It is also written -[3543.84 --> 3545.60] Do not put the Lord -[3545.60 --> 3546.34] Your God -[3546.34 --> 3547.22] To the test -[3547.22 --> 3549.68] Again -[3549.68 --> 3551.50] The devil took him -[3551.50 --> 3552.58] To a very high mountain -[3552.58 --> 3553.28] And showed him -[3553.28 --> 3554.14] All the kingdoms -[3554.14 --> 3555.32] Of the world -[3555.32 --> 3556.54] And their splendor -[3556.54 --> 3558.36] All this -[3558.36 --> 3559.70] I will give you -[3559.70 --> 3560.22] He said -[3560.22 --> 3562.22] If you bow down -[3562.22 --> 3563.92] And worship me -[3563.92 --> 3567.20] Jesus said to him -[3567.20 --> 3568.74] Away from me -[3568.74 --> 3569.14] Satan -[3569.14 --> 3570.52] For it is written -[3570.52 --> 3571.58] Worship the Lord -[3571.58 --> 3572.22] Your God -[3572.22 --> 3573.46] And serve him -[3573.46 --> 3574.48] Only -[3574.48 --> 3576.50] Then the devil -[3576.50 --> 3577.14] Left him -[3577.14 --> 3578.64] And angels came -[3578.64 --> 3580.10] And attended him -[3580.10 --> 3581.60] This is the word -[3581.60 --> 3582.06] Of the Lord -[3582.06 --> 3590.82] We are a people -[3590.82 --> 3592.94] In search -[3592.94 --> 3595.46] Of identity -[3595.46 --> 3597.82] From the time -[3597.82 --> 3598.74] We're young -[3598.74 --> 3599.48] The littlest -[3599.48 --> 3600.28] Among us -[3600.28 --> 3601.40] Ask questions -[3601.40 --> 3602.28] About ourselves -[3602.28 --> 3603.32] Who am I -[3603.32 --> 3604.94] But by the time -[3604.94 --> 3605.58] We're older -[3605.58 --> 3606.80] That question -[3606.80 --> 3607.86] Often shifts -[3607.86 --> 3608.34] To -[3608.34 --> 3609.48] Am I enough -[3609.48 --> 3612.58] We try to find -[3612.58 --> 3613.98] A name -[3613.98 --> 3615.08] Ourselves -[3615.08 --> 3616.62] Through the things -[3616.62 --> 3617.28] We do -[3617.28 --> 3618.50] Through relationships -[3618.50 --> 3620.24] Through performances -[3620.24 --> 3622.62] We live in a world -[3622.62 --> 3623.40] That promises -[3623.40 --> 3624.10] Freedom -[3624.10 --> 3626.18] Through self-expression -[3626.18 --> 3626.68] But then -[3626.68 --> 3628.10] Burdens us -[3628.10 --> 3629.14] With the pressure -[3629.14 --> 3630.30] Of self-definition -[3630.30 --> 3632.98] And when you -[3632.98 --> 3633.76] Are the only one -[3633.76 --> 3634.46] Responsible -[3634.46 --> 3635.66] For defining yourself -[3635.66 --> 3636.78] It's only a matter -[3636.78 --> 3637.40] Of time -[3637.40 --> 3638.42] Before you feel -[3638.42 --> 3639.78] Like you're failing -[3639.78 --> 3640.92] At being you -[3640.92 --> 3644.04] We long -[3644.04 --> 3644.64] To hear -[3644.64 --> 3645.70] Someone say -[3645.70 --> 3647.12] I see you -[3647.12 --> 3648.92] I know you -[3648.92 --> 3651.32] I love you -[3651.32 --> 3653.26] You belong -[3653.26 --> 3656.42] But most of us -[3656.42 --> 3657.46] In our ordinary lives -[3657.46 --> 3658.92] Hear the opposite -[3658.92 --> 3659.80] We hear voices -[3659.80 --> 3660.64] That say -[3660.64 --> 3661.90] We're not enough -[3661.90 --> 3662.42] That we're not -[3662.42 --> 3663.42] Successful enough -[3663.42 --> 3663.88] That we're not -[3663.88 --> 3664.80] Spiritual enough -[3664.80 --> 3665.22] That we're not -[3665.22 --> 3665.84] Good enough -[3665.84 --> 3666.30] That we're not -[3666.30 --> 3667.50] Worthy of love -[3667.50 --> 3669.02] And for most of us -[3669.02 --> 3669.90] That voice -[3669.90 --> 3670.98] Is the loudest -[3670.98 --> 3671.94] In our own heads -[3671.94 --> 3674.58] But for some of us -[3674.58 --> 3675.82] That voice -[3675.82 --> 3676.42] Is confirmed -[3676.42 --> 3677.20] By the people -[3677.20 --> 3678.70] And the circumstances -[3678.70 --> 3679.52] Around us -[3679.52 --> 3682.16] And again -[3682.16 --> 3683.22] Even kids -[3683.22 --> 3684.56] Long for this -[3684.56 --> 3685.32] Right -[3685.32 --> 3685.96] Every kid -[3685.96 --> 3686.68] Wants to hear -[3686.68 --> 3687.40] Their parents -[3687.40 --> 3688.28] Or a teacher -[3688.28 --> 3689.16] Or a coach -[3689.16 --> 3689.62] Say -[3689.62 --> 3690.80] I'm proud of you -[3690.80 --> 3692.14] I'm glad -[3692.14 --> 3692.90] You're here -[3692.90 --> 3694.50] Right -[3694.50 --> 3694.96] That's not just -[3694.96 --> 3695.72] A kid thing -[3695.72 --> 3696.52] That's a people -[3696.52 --> 3696.92] Thing -[3696.92 --> 3697.90] That's a human -[3697.90 --> 3698.38] Thing -[3698.38 --> 3699.14] And that never -[3699.14 --> 3700.10] Really goes away -[3700.10 --> 3703.10] But when we -[3703.10 --> 3704.00] Don't hear it -[3704.00 --> 3705.78] We hide -[3705.78 --> 3708.44] When we don't -[3708.44 --> 3708.78] Hear it -[3708.78 --> 3709.70] We perform -[3709.70 --> 3711.62] And then -[3711.62 --> 3712.34] We numb -[3712.34 --> 3713.14] Ourselves -[3713.14 --> 3714.08] Through various -[3714.08 --> 3715.04] Means -[3715.04 --> 3717.24] We scroll -[3717.24 --> 3718.50] Ad nauseum -[3718.50 --> 3720.08] We edit -[3720.08 --> 3720.68] Our image -[3720.68 --> 3721.44] Before we post -[3721.44 --> 3722.14] It online -[3722.14 --> 3723.78] We tell stories -[3723.78 --> 3724.62] About ourselves -[3724.62 --> 3725.54] That we hope -[3725.54 --> 3726.42] Are true -[3726.42 --> 3727.30] Or at least -[3727.30 --> 3727.76] That we hope -[3727.76 --> 3728.22] Other people -[3728.22 --> 3728.74] Will believe -[3728.74 --> 3731.56] And all the while -[3731.56 --> 3733.02] There's this -[3733.02 --> 3733.94] Ache -[3733.94 --> 3734.78] In us -[3734.78 --> 3735.78] This deep down -[3735.78 --> 3736.64] Longing -[3736.64 --> 3737.52] To be known -[3737.52 --> 3738.70] And not rejected -[3738.70 --> 3739.98] To be seen -[3739.98 --> 3741.20] And not shamed -[3741.20 --> 3742.86] To be claimed -[3742.86 --> 3743.86] Without having -[3743.86 --> 3745.02] To prove anything -[3745.02 --> 3746.48] Right -[3746.48 --> 3747.08] We ache -[3747.08 --> 3748.28] For this -[3748.28 --> 3749.68] Being named -[3749.68 --> 3750.66] By someone -[3750.66 --> 3751.80] Greater than us -[3751.80 --> 3752.80] We ache -[3752.80 --> 3753.88] For a voice -[3753.88 --> 3754.70] That can say -[3754.70 --> 3755.60] With authority -[3755.60 --> 3757.50] You are mine -[3757.50 --> 3758.72] I delight -[3758.72 --> 3759.72] In you -[3759.72 --> 3762.38] But in a world -[3762.38 --> 3763.36] Where approval -[3763.36 --> 3764.26] Is conditional -[3764.26 --> 3765.28] And identity -[3765.28 --> 3766.22] Is constantly -[3766.22 --> 3767.64] Up for negotiation -[3767.64 --> 3769.10] That kind of voice -[3769.10 --> 3770.12] Just feels impossible -[3770.12 --> 3770.82] To hear -[3770.82 --> 3772.56] Right -[3772.56 --> 3773.48] All we really know -[3773.48 --> 3774.20] Is the hustle -[3774.20 --> 3775.22] To earn it -[3775.22 --> 3777.38] And the haunting -[3777.38 --> 3777.94] Fear -[3777.94 --> 3779.04] That will never -[3779.04 --> 3780.00] Actually measure up -[3780.00 --> 3782.90] We are a generation -[3782.90 --> 3783.90] In the midst -[3783.90 --> 3785.20] Of an identity crisis -[3785.20 --> 3786.64] We're told -[3786.64 --> 3787.66] To be yourself -[3787.66 --> 3788.44] But we're given -[3788.44 --> 3788.96] No direction -[3788.96 --> 3789.74] For what that self -[3789.74 --> 3790.24] Should be -[3790.24 --> 3791.86] And we swing -[3791.86 --> 3792.76] Between pride -[3792.76 --> 3793.90] And despair -[3793.90 --> 3795.10] Never quite certain -[3795.10 --> 3795.80] Of who we are -[3795.80 --> 3797.18] One day -[3797.18 --> 3798.30] We feel okay -[3798.30 --> 3798.88] Maybe -[3798.88 --> 3799.78] The next -[3799.78 --> 3800.52] We're not sure -[3800.52 --> 3801.18] If anyone -[3801.18 --> 3802.50] Will ever love us -[3802.50 --> 3803.90] Right -[3803.90 --> 3804.34] We long -[3804.34 --> 3805.14] For a love -[3805.14 --> 3806.78] That cannot be lost -[3806.78 --> 3807.40] We long -[3807.40 --> 3808.84] And wonder -[3808.84 --> 3809.68] What it means -[3809.68 --> 3811.02] To be a child -[3811.02 --> 3811.64] Of God -[3811.64 --> 3813.50] And all the while -[3813.50 --> 3814.72] We're waiting -[3814.72 --> 3815.66] Just waiting -[3815.66 --> 3817.02] To hear that voice -[3817.02 --> 3819.88] And then -[3819.88 --> 3822.48] As we read -[3822.48 --> 3823.10] This morning -[3823.10 --> 3825.18] Jesus shows up -[3825.18 --> 3826.26] Right -[3826.26 --> 3827.10] And into all -[3827.10 --> 3828.26] Our identity questions -[3828.26 --> 3829.50] Into all our striving -[3829.50 --> 3830.72] And all our shame -[3830.72 --> 3832.08] He steps forward -[3832.08 --> 3833.04] To stand -[3833.04 --> 3834.30] Where I stand -[3834.30 --> 3835.08] He steps forward -[3835.08 --> 3835.80] To stand -[3835.80 --> 3836.96] Where you stand -[3836.96 --> 3837.80] He steps forward -[3837.80 --> 3838.70] To stand -[3838.70 --> 3839.74] Where sinners -[3839.74 --> 3840.60] Stand -[3840.60 --> 3842.26] That's what John saw -[3842.26 --> 3842.94] When Jesus -[3842.94 --> 3843.54] Stepped forward -[3843.54 --> 3844.08] And that's why -[3844.08 --> 3845.02] He was confused -[3845.02 --> 3845.82] And he said -[3845.82 --> 3847.40] I need to be baptized -[3847.40 --> 3848.04] By you -[3848.04 --> 3848.92] Why do you -[3848.92 --> 3849.58] Come to me -[3849.58 --> 3851.92] If you've ever -[3851.92 --> 3853.30] Seen a baptism here -[3853.30 --> 3854.76] Maybe you remember -[3854.76 --> 3855.46] Your own -[3855.46 --> 3856.34] Right -[3856.34 --> 3857.70] It's not just -[3857.70 --> 3858.56] About getting wet -[3858.56 --> 3860.90] It's about God -[3860.90 --> 3861.80] Saying to you -[3861.80 --> 3863.34] You are mine -[3863.34 --> 3865.50] And a profession -[3865.50 --> 3865.90] Of faith -[3865.90 --> 3866.94] Like we witnessed -[3866.94 --> 3867.60] And participated -[3867.60 --> 3868.26] This morning -[3868.26 --> 3869.42] Whether it's a profession -[3869.42 --> 3869.82] Of faith -[3869.82 --> 3870.82] Tied to baptism -[3870.82 --> 3872.14] Or it's 20 years later -[3872.14 --> 3873.46] Is us saying -[3873.46 --> 3874.22] Yeah -[3874.22 --> 3875.66] I am yours -[3875.66 --> 3878.60] And so why does -[3878.60 --> 3879.58] John ask Jesus -[3879.58 --> 3880.72] This question -[3880.72 --> 3881.60] Why does John say -[3881.60 --> 3882.60] I need to be baptized -[3882.60 --> 3883.32] By you -[3883.32 --> 3884.64] And you come to me -[3884.64 --> 3887.62] If you have your -[3887.62 --> 3888.26] Bibles open -[3888.26 --> 3888.82] And of course -[3888.82 --> 3889.68] Always encourage you -[3889.68 --> 3890.22] To do that -[3890.22 --> 3891.50] In the section -[3891.50 --> 3893.30] Immediately before ours -[3893.30 --> 3893.78] The beginning -[3893.78 --> 3894.82] Of chapter 3 -[3894.82 --> 3898.38] John explains -[3898.38 --> 3899.10] He says -[3899.10 --> 3901.84] I baptize with water -[3901.84 --> 3902.72] For repentance -[3902.72 --> 3905.22] Now that word repentance -[3905.22 --> 3906.30] Is a noun -[3906.30 --> 3906.76] Meaning -[3906.76 --> 3908.70] A comprehensive change -[3908.70 --> 3909.94] Or the change -[3909.94 --> 3911.00] Of state -[3911.00 --> 3911.68] In any -[3911.68 --> 3912.52] Or all -[3912.52 --> 3913.30] Of the elements -[3913.30 --> 3914.02] Of your life -[3914.02 --> 3914.80] Your attitude -[3914.80 --> 3915.54] Your thoughts -[3915.54 --> 3916.38] Your actions -[3916.38 --> 3917.34] You're turning -[3917.34 --> 3918.86] Towards God's design -[3918.86 --> 3919.98] For how you live -[3919.98 --> 3920.48] Your life -[3920.48 --> 3921.90] Genuine repentance -[3921.90 --> 3923.18] Means more -[3923.18 --> 3924.06] Than just saying -[3924.06 --> 3924.88] I'm sorry -[3924.88 --> 3926.66] It is a change -[3926.66 --> 3927.36] Of being -[3927.36 --> 3928.20] And a change -[3928.20 --> 3928.94] Of doing -[3928.94 --> 3929.52] Right -[3929.52 --> 3930.34] Genuine repentance -[3930.34 --> 3931.04] Is a change -[3931.04 --> 3931.70] In your thinking -[3931.70 --> 3932.82] And your feeling -[3932.82 --> 3935.06] John says -[3935.06 --> 3936.26] Earlier in that section -[3936.26 --> 3937.80] Produce fruit -[3937.80 --> 3938.48] In keeping -[3938.48 --> 3939.60] With your repentance -[3939.60 --> 3942.86] We read -[3942.86 --> 3943.22] Actually -[3943.22 --> 3944.46] In one of the -[3944.46 --> 3945.30] Other gospels -[3945.30 --> 3946.00] That when John -[3946.00 --> 3946.84] Sees Jesus -[3946.84 --> 3947.82] He says -[3947.82 --> 3948.72] Look -[3948.72 --> 3950.04] The Lamb of God -[3950.04 --> 3950.92] Who takes away -[3950.92 --> 3951.90] The sin of the world -[3951.90 --> 3953.48] Right -[3953.48 --> 3954.30] John knows -[3954.30 --> 3955.02] That he -[3955.02 --> 3956.38] Needs repentance -[3956.38 --> 3957.32] He needs -[3957.32 --> 3958.10] A whole life -[3958.10 --> 3958.94] Transformation -[3958.94 --> 3959.72] Not Jesus -[3959.72 --> 3961.44] He knows -[3961.44 --> 3961.88] That he -[3961.88 --> 3962.58] Should be the one -[3962.58 --> 3963.74] Receiving baptism -[3963.74 --> 3965.14] From Jesus -[3965.14 --> 3967.62] John also says -[3967.62 --> 3968.62] In that same section -[3968.62 --> 3970.44] Before our text -[3970.44 --> 3972.90] Explaining to the Pharisees -[3972.90 --> 3973.32] And the people -[3973.32 --> 3974.26] Who come out to him -[3974.26 --> 3975.06] He says -[3975.06 --> 3976.02] After me -[3976.02 --> 3977.06] Comes one -[3977.06 --> 3978.14] Who is more powerful -[3978.14 --> 3978.78] Than I -[3978.78 --> 3980.66] He will baptize you -[3980.66 --> 3981.58] With the Holy Spirit -[3981.58 --> 3982.72] And fire -[3982.72 --> 3984.54] John knows -[3984.54 --> 3985.18] That he needs -[3985.18 --> 3985.74] The baptism -[3985.74 --> 3986.58] Of the Holy Spirit -[3986.58 --> 3987.84] In order to escape -[3987.84 --> 3989.30] The baptism by fire -[3989.30 --> 3990.30] Right -[3990.30 --> 3991.16] Which the next verse -[3991.16 --> 3991.94] Tells us -[3991.94 --> 3992.98] Is the judgment -[3992.98 --> 3993.50] That comes -[3993.50 --> 3994.56] From rejecting Jesus -[3994.56 --> 3995.44] In verse 12 -[3995.44 --> 3997.06] He will clear -[3997.06 --> 3998.12] His threshing floor -[3998.12 --> 3999.08] Gathering his wheat -[3999.08 --> 3999.78] Into the barn -[3999.78 --> 4000.76] And burning up -[4000.76 --> 4001.48] The chaff -[4001.48 --> 4002.62] With unquenchable -[4002.62 --> 4003.44] Fire -[4003.44 --> 4005.24] Right -[4005.24 --> 4006.00] Jesus comes -[4006.00 --> 4006.84] To baptize -[4006.84 --> 4007.74] With the Holy Spirit -[4007.74 --> 4008.82] And bring salvation -[4008.82 --> 4009.96] And he comes -[4009.96 --> 4010.90] To bring judgment -[4010.90 --> 4012.30] On those who reject him -[4012.30 --> 4012.96] And on those -[4012.96 --> 4013.90] Who've rejected God -[4013.90 --> 4015.28] Those who haven't -[4015.28 --> 4016.10] Produced fruit -[4016.10 --> 4017.32] In keeping with repentance -[4017.32 --> 4017.96] Because -[4017.96 --> 4019.14] They're chaff -[4019.14 --> 4019.98] It turns out -[4019.98 --> 4022.18] Now hearing -[4022.18 --> 4022.90] John's doubts -[4022.90 --> 4024.04] And concerns -[4024.04 --> 4025.78] Jesus says -[4025.78 --> 4027.76] Let it be so now -[4027.76 --> 4029.64] It's proper for us -[4029.64 --> 4030.26] To do this -[4030.26 --> 4031.26] To fulfill -[4031.26 --> 4032.48] All righteousness -[4032.48 --> 4034.60] Because -[4034.60 --> 4035.58] John is right -[4035.58 --> 4036.90] Jesus doesn't need -[4036.90 --> 4037.62] To repent -[4037.62 --> 4038.60] He doesn't need -[4038.60 --> 4039.42] To confess -[4039.42 --> 4040.38] Any way -[4040.38 --> 4041.22] That his life -[4041.22 --> 4042.22] Isn't perfectly -[4042.22 --> 4042.86] In line -[4042.86 --> 4043.82] With God's will -[4043.82 --> 4044.90] Jesus' life -[4044.90 --> 4045.74] Is perfectly -[4045.74 --> 4046.32] Aligned -[4046.32 --> 4047.36] With God's will -[4047.36 --> 4048.56] He is already -[4048.56 --> 4049.30] Perfectly -[4049.30 --> 4050.26] Righteous -[4050.26 --> 4051.28] And yet -[4051.28 --> 4052.20] To use John's -[4052.20 --> 4053.32] Own language -[4053.32 --> 4054.30] That means -[4054.30 --> 4055.56] He is producing -[4055.56 --> 4056.42] The fruit -[4056.42 --> 4057.20] In keeping -[4057.20 --> 4058.60] With repentance -[4058.60 --> 4059.78] He's living -[4059.78 --> 4060.68] The fruit -[4060.68 --> 4061.96] Of righteousness -[4061.96 --> 4062.96] Right -[4062.96 --> 4063.42] The fruit -[4063.42 --> 4064.22] Of repentance -[4064.22 --> 4065.76] Is righteousness -[4065.76 --> 4066.96] Living obedient -[4066.96 --> 4067.84] To God's will -[4067.84 --> 4069.62] And to fulfill -[4069.62 --> 4070.66] All righteousness -[4070.66 --> 4071.18] Then -[4071.18 --> 4072.90] Jesus demonstrates -[4072.90 --> 4073.98] The connection -[4073.98 --> 4075.20] Between baptism -[4075.20 --> 4076.66] And obedience -[4076.66 --> 4078.28] And then he invites -[4078.28 --> 4079.00] Us all -[4079.00 --> 4080.34] Into that same -[4080.34 --> 4082.14] Baptismal obedience -[4082.14 --> 4083.82] The contrast -[4083.82 --> 4084.80] In this text -[4084.80 --> 4086.08] Here isn't -[4086.08 --> 4087.02] Between John's -[4087.02 --> 4087.60] Baptism -[4087.60 --> 4088.48] And Jesus' -[4088.66 --> 4089.18] Baptism -[4089.18 --> 4089.92] That's what -[4089.92 --> 4090.86] Sometimes people -[4090.86 --> 4091.28] Think -[4091.28 --> 4092.20] The contrast -[4092.20 --> 4092.84] Actually is -[4092.84 --> 4093.78] Between John -[4093.78 --> 4094.64] And Jesus -[4094.64 --> 4096.58] Between servant -[4096.58 --> 4097.58] And master -[4097.58 --> 4099.04] Right -[4099.04 --> 4099.52] Elsewhere -[4099.52 --> 4100.22] John says -[4100.22 --> 4101.24] He must become -[4101.24 --> 4101.66] Greater -[4101.66 --> 4102.66] I must become -[4102.66 --> 4103.06] Less -[4103.06 --> 4104.32] And this is -[4104.32 --> 4105.04] The same idea -[4105.04 --> 4106.98] The form of -[4106.98 --> 4108.50] Baptism is the same -[4108.50 --> 4109.52] Right -[4109.52 --> 4110.32] John's baptism -[4110.32 --> 4111.16] Was no dead -[4111.16 --> 4111.72] Sign -[4111.72 --> 4113.78] His was the role -[4113.78 --> 4114.78] Of a minister -[4114.78 --> 4115.80] Of an outward -[4115.80 --> 4116.36] Sign -[4116.36 --> 4117.48] Where Christ -[4117.48 --> 4118.66] Is the author -[4118.66 --> 4120.42] Of a spiritual -[4120.42 --> 4121.54] Sign -[4121.54 --> 4122.74] A spiritual act -[4122.74 --> 4123.34] A spiritual -[4123.34 --> 4124.36] Baptism -[4124.36 --> 4125.16] Spiritual meaning -[4125.16 --> 4126.18] Spirit filled -[4126.18 --> 4127.06] And fueled -[4127.06 --> 4128.54] Right -[4128.54 --> 4129.34] It's the sign -[4129.34 --> 4130.22] And the thing -[4130.22 --> 4131.38] Signified -[4131.38 --> 4132.66] Ministers -[4132.66 --> 4133.44] Like John -[4133.44 --> 4134.28] And like me -[4134.28 --> 4134.96] For that matter -[4134.96 --> 4136.12] Do the sign -[4136.12 --> 4137.80] It is Christ -[4137.80 --> 4138.54] Who brings -[4138.54 --> 4139.30] The reality -[4139.30 --> 4140.74] It is Christ -[4140.74 --> 4141.36] Who brings -[4141.36 --> 4142.28] The real -[4142.28 --> 4143.24] By the spirit -[4143.24 --> 4145.56] And in the same -[4145.56 --> 4145.98] Way -[4145.98 --> 4146.94] Christ was -[4146.94 --> 4147.74] Baptized -[4147.74 --> 4148.94] We are -[4148.94 --> 4149.94] Baptized -[4149.94 --> 4151.10] When enjoined -[4151.10 --> 4151.78] To him -[4151.78 --> 4152.70] By the spirit -[4152.70 --> 4155.12] John Calvin -[4155.12 --> 4156.88] Who's a -[4156.88 --> 4158.78] 16th century -[4158.78 --> 4159.98] French pastor -[4159.98 --> 4160.72] Who lived -[4160.72 --> 4161.16] And worked -[4161.16 --> 4161.86] Mostly in -[4161.86 --> 4162.52] Geneva -[4162.52 --> 4163.16] Switzerland -[4163.16 --> 4163.88] He's really -[4163.88 --> 4164.38] Beautiful -[4164.38 --> 4165.58] In his -[4165.58 --> 4166.10] Commentary -[4166.10 --> 4166.52] On this -[4166.52 --> 4166.82] Point -[4166.82 --> 4168.26] He says -[4168.26 --> 4169.52] He -[4169.52 --> 4170.38] That is Christ -[4170.38 --> 4171.08] Received -[4171.08 --> 4171.82] The same -[4171.82 --> 4172.38] Baptism -[4172.38 --> 4172.94] With us -[4172.94 --> 4173.46] In order -[4173.46 --> 4174.22] To assure -[4174.22 --> 4174.94] Believers -[4174.94 --> 4175.58] That they -[4175.58 --> 4176.46] Are grafted -[4176.46 --> 4177.08] Into his -[4177.08 --> 4177.48] Body -[4177.48 --> 4178.28] And that -[4178.28 --> 4178.88] They are -[4178.88 --> 4179.32] And he's -[4179.32 --> 4179.84] Quoting from -[4179.84 --> 4180.76] Romans 6 -[4180.76 --> 4181.30] Verse 4 -[4181.30 --> 4181.56] Now -[4181.56 --> 4182.26] They are -[4182.26 --> 4182.76] Buried -[4182.76 --> 4183.16] With him -[4183.16 --> 4183.76] In baptism -[4183.76 --> 4184.54] That they -[4184.54 --> 4185.20] May rise -[4185.20 --> 4186.04] To newness -[4186.04 --> 4187.10] Of life -[4187.10 --> 4188.92] Right -[4188.92 --> 4189.40] Christ's -[4189.40 --> 4190.00] Baptism -[4190.00 --> 4191.24] To fulfill -[4191.24 --> 4192.10] All righteousness -[4192.10 --> 4193.32] Is to assure -[4193.32 --> 4193.78] You -[4193.78 --> 4194.64] In your -[4194.64 --> 4195.44] Baptism -[4195.44 --> 4196.26] In the -[4196.26 --> 4196.94] Holy Spirit -[4196.94 --> 4197.88] As a -[4197.88 --> 4198.26] Fruit -[4198.26 --> 4199.02] In keeping -[4199.02 --> 4199.86] With repentance -[4199.86 --> 4201.62] Again -[4201.62 --> 4202.38] Calvin says -[4202.38 --> 4203.00] It beautifully -[4203.00 --> 4203.48] He says -[4203.48 --> 4204.50] That the -[4204.50 --> 4205.50] General reason -[4205.50 --> 4206.52] Christ received -[4206.52 --> 4207.10] Baptism -[4207.10 --> 4207.60] Was that he -[4207.60 --> 4208.20] Might render -[4208.20 --> 4209.12] Full obedience -[4209.12 --> 4209.50] To the -[4209.50 --> 4209.82] Father -[4209.82 --> 4211.00] And the -[4211.00 --> 4211.56] Special -[4211.56 --> 4212.16] Reason -[4212.16 --> 4213.08] Was that he -[4213.08 --> 4214.14] Might consecrate -[4214.14 --> 4215.14] Baptism in his -[4215.14 --> 4215.84] Own body -[4215.84 --> 4216.88] That we might -[4216.88 --> 4217.54] Have it in -[4217.54 --> 4218.24] Common with -[4218.24 --> 4218.48] Him -[4218.48 --> 4222.42] And so -[4222.42 --> 4222.82] Let's take -[4222.82 --> 4223.44] This idea -[4223.44 --> 4225.44] And tie it -[4225.44 --> 4225.78] To what -[4225.78 --> 4226.92] Actually happens -[4226.92 --> 4228.06] When Jesus -[4228.06 --> 4228.86] Is baptized -[4228.86 --> 4230.88] Because when -[4230.88 --> 4231.48] Jesus is -[4231.48 --> 4232.12] Baptized -[4232.12 --> 4232.86] Heaven opens -[4232.86 --> 4233.24] Up -[4233.24 --> 4233.84] And the -[4233.84 --> 4234.22] Spirit -[4234.22 --> 4234.92] Descends -[4234.92 --> 4235.44] Like a -[4235.44 --> 4235.94] Dove -[4235.94 --> 4236.52] A -[4236.52 --> 4237.04] Lighting -[4237.04 --> 4237.54] On him -[4237.54 --> 4238.00] We read -[4238.00 --> 4238.54] And the -[4238.54 --> 4239.02] Voice -[4239.02 --> 4239.84] From the -[4239.84 --> 4240.28] Father -[4240.28 --> 4241.00] Speaks -[4241.00 --> 4241.60] This -[4241.60 --> 4242.48] Is my -[4242.48 --> 4243.14] Son -[4243.14 --> 4243.80] Whom -[4243.80 --> 4244.04] I -[4244.04 --> 4244.48] Love -[4244.48 --> 4244.92] With -[4244.92 --> 4245.34] Him -[4245.34 --> 4245.70] I -[4245.70 --> 4246.00] Am -[4246.00 --> 4246.30] Well -[4246.30 --> 4246.84] Pleased -[4246.84 --> 4248.76] In a -[4248.76 --> 4249.24] Special -[4249.24 --> 4249.64] Way -[4249.64 --> 4249.96] That -[4249.96 --> 4250.42] Truth -[4250.42 --> 4250.96] Belongs -[4250.96 --> 4251.22] To -[4251.22 --> 4251.64] Jesus -[4251.64 --> 4252.32] He -[4252.32 --> 4252.96] Is the -[4252.96 --> 4253.32] Only -[4253.32 --> 4253.96] Begotten -[4253.96 --> 4254.32] Of the -[4254.32 --> 4254.62] Father -[4254.62 --> 4255.18] He -[4255.18 --> 4255.80] Is the -[4255.80 --> 4256.08] Son -[4256.08 --> 4256.56] Of God -[4256.56 --> 4256.76] Who -[4256.76 --> 4256.98] Took -[4256.98 --> 4257.52] On flesh -[4257.52 --> 4257.90] And made -[4257.90 --> 4258.06] His -[4258.06 --> 4258.38] Dwelling -[4258.38 --> 4259.18] Among us -[4259.18 --> 4259.72] In him -[4259.72 --> 4260.26] Alone -[4260.26 --> 4260.70] Does the -[4260.70 --> 4261.12] Fullness -[4261.12 --> 4261.82] Of the -[4261.82 --> 4262.30] Deity -[4262.30 --> 4262.76] Dwell -[4262.76 --> 4263.38] In a -[4263.38 --> 4263.72] Special -[4263.72 --> 4264.08] Way -[4264.08 --> 4264.54] Jesus -[4264.54 --> 4265.32] Is the -[4265.32 --> 4265.70] Son -[4265.70 --> 4266.34] Of -[4266.34 --> 4266.96] God -[4266.96 --> 4267.12] And -[4267.12 --> 4267.46] Actually -[4267.46 --> 4267.84] This -[4267.84 --> 4268.48] Verse -[4268.48 --> 4269.16] Is -[4269.16 --> 4269.78] Essential -[4269.78 --> 4270.38] In the -[4270.38 --> 4270.76] History -[4270.76 --> 4271.16] Of the -[4271.16 --> 4271.48] Christian -[4271.48 --> 4271.88] Church -[4271.88 --> 4272.36] To -[4272.36 --> 4273.00] Clarifying -[4273.00 --> 4273.48] All sorts -[4273.48 --> 4273.62] Of -[4273.62 --> 4274.26] Disagreements -[4274.26 --> 4274.50] And -[4274.50 --> 4275.08] Heresies -[4275.08 --> 4275.48] About the -[4275.48 --> 4275.64] Two -[4275.64 --> 4275.94] Natures -[4275.94 --> 4276.10] Of -[4276.10 --> 4276.40] Christ -[4276.40 --> 4276.86] And -[4276.86 --> 4277.04] About -[4277.04 --> 4277.20] The -[4277.20 --> 4277.44] Trinity -[4277.44 --> 4277.88] But -[4277.88 --> 4278.06] We -[4278.06 --> 4278.20] Don't -[4278.20 --> 4278.30] Have -[4278.30 --> 4278.50] Time -[4278.50 --> 4278.60] To -[4278.60 --> 4278.72] Get -[4278.72 --> 4278.88] Into -[4278.88 --> 4279.06] That -[4279.06 --> 4279.22] This -[4279.22 --> 4279.48] Morning -[4279.48 --> 4279.90] Just -[4279.90 --> 4280.08] Know -[4280.08 --> 4280.24] That -[4280.24 --> 4280.40] It's -[4280.40 --> 4280.88] Profound -[4280.88 --> 4282.54] In a -[4282.54 --> 4282.84] Special -[4282.84 --> 4283.16] Way -[4283.16 --> 4283.62] Jesus -[4283.62 --> 4284.14] Is -[4284.14 --> 4284.34] The -[4284.34 --> 4284.54] Son -[4284.54 --> 4284.70] Of -[4284.70 --> 4284.96] God -[4284.96 --> 4285.68] But -[4285.68 --> 4286.32] By -[4286.32 --> 4287.20] Baptism -[4287.20 --> 4288.64] In -[4288.64 --> 4288.82] A -[4288.82 --> 4289.22] General -[4289.22 --> 4289.66] Way -[4289.66 --> 4290.20] We -[4290.20 --> 4290.78] All -[4290.78 --> 4291.42] Become -[4291.42 --> 4291.84] Sons -[4291.84 --> 4292.02] Of -[4292.02 --> 4292.38] God -[4292.38 --> 4293.66] Right -[4293.66 --> 4293.86] At -[4293.86 --> 4294.04] Our -[4294.04 --> 4294.78] Baptism -[4294.78 --> 4295.18] God -[4295.18 --> 4295.54] Says -[4295.54 --> 4296.06] This -[4296.06 --> 4296.34] Is -[4296.34 --> 4296.54] My -[4296.54 --> 4297.06] Son -[4297.06 --> 4297.62] This -[4297.62 --> 4297.92] Is -[4297.92 --> 4298.14] My -[4298.14 --> 4298.60] Daughter -[4298.60 --> 4299.84] Right -[4299.84 --> 4300.14] You -[4300.14 --> 4300.46] Are -[4300.46 --> 4300.96] God's -[4300.96 --> 4301.28] Son -[4301.28 --> 4301.62] By -[4301.62 --> 4302.50] Repentance -[4302.50 --> 4303.16] And -[4303.16 --> 4303.48] Its -[4303.48 --> 4303.98] Fruit -[4303.98 --> 4304.54] You -[4304.54 --> 4304.82] Are -[4304.82 --> 4305.22] God's -[4305.22 --> 4305.60] Daughter -[4305.60 --> 4305.88] By -[4305.88 --> 4306.42] Faith -[4306.42 --> 4306.82] And -[4306.82 --> 4307.00] By -[4307.00 --> 4307.22] Your -[4307.22 --> 4307.66] Union -[4307.66 --> 4307.90] With -[4307.90 --> 4308.16] Jesus -[4308.16 --> 4308.72] Christ -[4308.72 --> 4309.90] And -[4309.90 --> 4310.08] So -[4310.08 --> 4310.48] Hear -[4310.48 --> 4310.72] The -[4310.72 --> 4311.08] Voice -[4311.08 --> 4311.28] Of -[4311.28 --> 4311.42] The -[4311.42 --> 4311.80] Father -[4311.80 --> 4312.58] Say -[4312.58 --> 4313.16] This -[4313.16 --> 4313.52] Is -[4313.52 --> 4313.76] My -[4313.76 --> 4314.24] Son -[4314.24 --> 4314.84] Whom -[4314.84 --> 4315.10] I -[4315.10 --> 4315.58] Love -[4315.58 --> 4316.12] Hear -[4316.12 --> 4316.36] The -[4316.36 --> 4316.70] Voice -[4316.70 --> 4316.90] Of -[4316.90 --> 4317.04] Your -[4317.04 --> 4317.42] Father -[4317.42 --> 4317.84] Say -[4317.84 --> 4318.44] You -[4318.44 --> 4318.86] Are -[4318.86 --> 4319.18] My -[4319.18 --> 4319.72] Daughter -[4319.72 --> 4320.28] With -[4320.28 --> 4320.64] You -[4320.64 --> 4321.00] I -[4321.00 --> 4321.04] I -[4321.04 --> 4321.06] I -[4321.06 --> 4321.36] Am -[4321.36 --> 4321.78] Well -[4321.78 --> 4322.60] Pleased -[4322.60 --> 4327.46] Behold -[4327.46 --> 4327.64] Your -[4327.64 --> 4327.98] King -[4327.98 --> 4330.90] Who -[4330.90 --> 4331.50] Speaks -[4331.50 --> 4331.76] Your -[4331.76 --> 4332.24] Name -[4332.24 --> 4333.22] To -[4333.22 --> 4333.56] You -[4333.56 --> 4340.62] Immediately -[4340.62 --> 4341.08] After -[4341.08 --> 4341.30] His -[4341.30 --> 4341.90] Baptism -[4341.90 --> 4343.26] After -[4343.26 --> 4343.42] The -[4343.42 --> 4343.90] Heavens -[4343.90 --> 4344.22] Were -[4344.22 --> 4345.14] Opened -[4345.14 --> 4345.30] And -[4345.30 --> 4345.46] The -[4345.46 --> 4345.78] Spirit -[4345.78 --> 4346.30] Descended -[4346.30 --> 4346.52] And -[4346.52 --> 4346.66] The -[4346.66 --> 4346.96] Voice -[4346.96 --> 4347.12] Of -[4347.12 --> 4347.26] The -[4347.26 --> 4347.52] Father -[4347.52 --> 4347.90] Came -[4347.90 --> 4348.38] Speaking -[4348.38 --> 4348.88] Love -[4348.88 --> 4349.30] Over -[4349.30 --> 4349.64] Him -[4349.64 --> 4350.56] Jesus -[4350.56 --> 4351.12] Is -[4351.12 --> 4351.70] Led -[4351.70 --> 4352.18] By -[4352.18 --> 4352.44] The -[4352.44 --> 4352.90] Same -[4352.90 --> 4353.50] Spirit -[4353.50 --> 4354.54] Into -[4354.54 --> 4354.84] The -[4354.84 --> 4355.44] Wilderness -[4355.44 --> 4357.84] Not -[4357.84 --> 4358.04] Into -[4358.04 --> 4358.56] Comfort -[4358.56 --> 4360.28] Not -[4360.28 --> 4360.48] Into -[4360.48 --> 4361.24] Celebration -[4361.24 --> 4362.42] Not -[4362.42 --> 4362.66] Into -[4362.66 --> 4363.00] Cake -[4363.00 --> 4363.18] Or -[4363.18 --> 4363.50] Coffee -[4363.50 --> 4363.82] After -[4363.82 --> 4364.26] Church -[4364.26 --> 4365.60] But -[4365.60 --> 4365.84] Into -[4365.84 --> 4366.30] Testing -[4366.30 --> 4368.80] He -[4368.80 --> 4369.02] Was -[4369.02 --> 4369.38] Led -[4369.38 --> 4369.80] Into -[4369.80 --> 4370.06] The -[4370.06 --> 4370.58] Wilderness -[4370.58 --> 4370.82] To -[4370.82 --> 4371.00] Be -[4371.00 --> 4371.64] Tempted -[4371.64 --> 4372.14] By -[4372.14 --> 4372.32] The -[4372.32 --> 4372.64] Devil -[4372.64 --> 4373.12] Not -[4373.12 --> 4373.42] Because -[4373.42 --> 4373.58] He -[4373.58 --> 4373.80] Was -[4373.80 --> 4374.20] Weak -[4374.20 --> 4375.36] But -[4375.36 --> 4375.60] Because -[4375.60 --> 4375.74] He -[4375.74 --> 4375.90] Was -[4375.90 --> 4376.22] Ready -[4376.22 --> 4377.84] Not -[4377.84 --> 4378.10] Because -[4378.10 --> 4378.22] He -[4378.22 --> 4378.44] Needed -[4378.44 --> 4378.58] To -[4378.58 --> 4378.88] Prove -[4378.88 --> 4379.18] Anything -[4379.18 --> 4379.40] To -[4379.40 --> 4379.56] The -[4379.56 --> 4379.94] Father -[4379.94 --> 4380.42] But -[4380.42 --> 4380.64] Because -[4380.64 --> 4380.78] He -[4380.78 --> 4380.90] Had -[4380.90 --> 4381.04] To -[4381.04 --> 4381.38] Walk -[4381.38 --> 4381.60] The -[4381.60 --> 4382.12] Path -[4382.12 --> 4382.54] Of -[4382.54 --> 4382.68] The -[4382.68 --> 4382.90] True -[4382.90 --> 4383.26] Son -[4383.26 --> 4384.42] The -[4384.42 --> 4384.80] Path -[4384.80 --> 4385.00] That -[4385.00 --> 4385.42] Adam -[4385.42 --> 4385.92] Failed -[4385.92 --> 4386.20] To -[4386.20 --> 4386.48] Walk -[4386.48 --> 4386.66] In -[4386.66 --> 4386.76] The -[4386.76 --> 4387.00] Garden -[4387.00 --> 4387.18] Of -[4387.18 --> 4387.38] Eden -[4387.38 --> 4387.76] The -[4387.76 --> 4388.04] Path -[4388.04 --> 4388.22] That -[4388.22 --> 4388.72] Israel -[4388.72 --> 4389.14] Failed -[4389.14 --> 4389.36] To -[4389.36 --> 4389.70] Walk -[4389.70 --> 4390.14] In -[4390.14 --> 4390.28] The -[4390.28 --> 4390.64] Desert -[4390.64 --> 4392.38] Right -[4392.38 --> 4392.70] Each -[4392.70 --> 4392.94] Of -[4392.94 --> 4393.28] Jesus -[4393.28 --> 4394.36] Temptations -[4394.36 --> 4395.66] And -[4395.66 --> 4396.00] Each -[4396.00 --> 4396.84] Temptation -[4396.84 --> 4397.06] That -[4397.06 --> 4397.34] Jesus -[4397.34 --> 4398.14] Faces -[4398.14 --> 4399.22] Touches -[4399.22 --> 4399.58] On -[4399.58 --> 4399.80] The -[4399.80 --> 4400.32] Core -[4400.32 --> 4401.08] Question -[4401.08 --> 4401.32] That -[4401.32 --> 4401.48] Was -[4401.48 --> 4401.78] Just -[4401.78 --> 4402.28] Answered -[4402.28 --> 4402.42] For -[4402.42 --> 4402.62] Him -[4402.62 --> 4402.74] In -[4402.74 --> 4402.84] The -[4402.84 --> 4403.06] Jordan -[4403.06 --> 4403.36] River -[4403.36 --> 4404.74] Right -[4404.74 --> 4405.38] If -[4405.38 --> 4405.62] You -[4405.62 --> 4405.90] Are -[4405.90 --> 4406.12] The -[4406.12 --> 4406.30] Son -[4406.30 --> 4406.46] Of -[4406.46 --> 4406.78] God -[4406.78 --> 4409.86] This -[4409.86 --> 4410.08] Is -[4410.08 --> 4410.28] My -[4410.28 --> 4410.74] Son -[4410.74 --> 4411.82] Whom -[4411.82 --> 4411.98] I -[4411.98 --> 4412.38] Love -[4412.38 --> 4413.40] Is -[4413.40 --> 4414.04] Twisted -[4414.04 --> 4414.82] By -[4414.82 --> 4415.02] The -[4415.02 --> 4415.60] Deceiver -[4415.60 --> 4416.80] If -[4416.80 --> 4417.52] You -[4417.52 --> 4417.94] Are -[4417.94 --> 4418.58] The -[4418.58 --> 4418.88] Son -[4418.88 --> 4419.48] Of -[4419.48 --> 4419.68] God -[4419.68 --> 4419.90] The -[4419.90 --> 4420.74] Devil -[4420.74 --> 4421.64] Challenges -[4421.64 --> 4422.52] His -[4422.52 --> 4423.50] Identity -[4423.50 --> 4424.06] His -[4424.06 --> 4424.94] Obedience -[4424.94 --> 4425.36] And -[4425.36 --> 4425.60] His -[4425.60 --> 4426.22] Trust -[4426.22 --> 4426.70] In -[4426.70 --> 4426.88] The -[4426.88 --> 4427.30] Father's -[4427.30 --> 4427.56] Word -[4427.56 --> 4428.68] Right -[4428.68 --> 4428.92] Turn -[4428.92 --> 4429.36] Stones -[4429.36 --> 4429.58] To -[4429.58 --> 4429.88] Bread -[4429.88 --> 4430.68] In -[4430.68 --> 4430.86] Other -[4430.86 --> 4431.12] Words -[4431.12 --> 4431.62] Meet -[4431.62 --> 4431.80] Your -[4431.80 --> 4432.04] Own -[4432.04 --> 4432.44] Needs -[4432.44 --> 4434.64] Not -[4434.64 --> 4434.90] Give -[4434.90 --> 4435.08] Us -[4435.38 --> 4435.74] Our -[4435.74 --> 4436.04] Daily -[4436.04 --> 4436.46] Bread -[4436.46 --> 4437.90] But -[4437.90 --> 4438.04] Go -[4438.04 --> 4438.30] Make -[4438.30 --> 4438.48] Your -[4438.48 --> 4438.78] Bread -[4438.78 --> 4441.44] Throw -[4441.44 --> 4442.00] Yourselves -[4442.00 --> 4442.38] Down -[4442.38 --> 4444.12] Right -[4444.12 --> 4444.40] In -[4444.40 --> 4444.62] Other -[4444.62 --> 4445.02] Words -[4445.02 --> 4445.70] Force -[4445.70 --> 4446.34] God -[4446.34 --> 4446.76] To -[4446.76 --> 4447.62] Prove -[4447.62 --> 4448.16] His -[4448.16 --> 4448.84] Love -[4448.84 --> 4451.36] Bow -[4451.36 --> 4451.80] Down -[4451.80 --> 4452.10] And -[4452.10 --> 4452.50] Worship -[4452.50 --> 4452.92] Me -[4452.92 --> 4454.76] In -[4454.76 --> 4454.94] Other -[4454.94 --> 4455.28] Words -[4455.28 --> 4456.18] Take -[4456.18 --> 4456.38] The -[4456.38 --> 4456.74] Kingdom -[4456.74 --> 4457.70] Without -[4457.70 --> 4457.92] The -[4457.92 --> 4458.36] Cross -[4458.36 --> 4461.06] Now -[4461.06 --> 4461.30] Make -[4461.30 --> 4461.46] No -[4461.46 --> 4461.78] Mistake -[4461.78 --> 4462.06] About -[4462.06 --> 4462.42] This -[4462.42 --> 4462.92] This -[4462.92 --> 4463.32] Test -[4463.32 --> 4463.62] Was -[4463.62 --> 4464.14] Real -[4464.14 --> 4464.92] Right -[4464.92 --> 4465.22] As -[4465.22 --> 4465.58] True -[4465.58 --> 4466.00] Man -[4466.00 --> 4466.36] Jesus -[4466.36 --> 4467.20] Experienced -[4467.20 --> 4467.72] The -[4467.72 --> 4468.06] Weight -[4468.06 --> 4468.56] And -[4468.56 --> 4468.88] The -[4468.88 --> 4469.44] Weakness -[4469.44 --> 4469.68] And -[4469.68 --> 4469.82] The -[4469.82 --> 4470.48] Temptation -[4470.48 --> 4470.84] Of -[4470.84 --> 4471.28] The -[4471.28 --> 4471.62] Moment -[4471.62 --> 4471.92] And -[4471.92 --> 4472.18] Yet -[4472.18 --> 4472.54] As -[4472.54 --> 4472.76] The -[4472.76 --> 4473.22] Divine -[4473.22 --> 4473.84] Son -[4473.84 --> 4474.30] He -[4474.30 --> 4474.84] Remained -[4474.84 --> 4475.74] Perfectly -[4475.74 --> 4476.62] Faithful -[4476.62 --> 4477.00] The -[4477.00 --> 4477.26] One -[4477.26 --> 4477.46] Who -[4477.46 --> 4477.76] Was -[4477.76 --> 4478.24] Tempted -[4478.24 --> 4478.62] Is -[4478.62 --> 4478.84] The -[4478.84 --> 4479.08] One -[4479.08 --> 4479.30] Who -[4479.30 --> 4479.82] Cannot -[4479.82 --> 4480.22] Fail -[4480.22 --> 4482.94] And -[4482.94 --> 4483.06] So -[4483.06 --> 4483.22] When -[4483.22 --> 4483.32] The -[4483.32 --> 4484.04] Deceiver -[4484.04 --> 4484.88] Says -[4484.88 --> 4485.06] To -[4485.06 --> 4485.40] You -[4485.40 --> 4486.50] If -[4486.50 --> 4486.74] You -[4486.74 --> 4487.04] Are -[4487.04 --> 4487.54] God's -[4487.54 --> 4488.10] Daughter -[4488.10 --> 4489.24] Do -[4489.24 --> 4489.66] This -[4489.66 --> 4489.90] When -[4489.90 --> 4490.06] The -[4490.06 --> 4490.60] Deceiver -[4490.60 --> 4491.20] Comes -[4491.20 --> 4491.56] Along -[4491.56 --> 4491.78] In -[4491.78 --> 4491.98] Your -[4491.98 --> 4492.30] Life -[4492.30 --> 4492.44] And -[4492.44 --> 4492.62] Says -[4492.62 --> 4493.26] If -[4493.26 --> 4493.48] You -[4493.48 --> 4493.70] Are -[4493.70 --> 4494.18] God's -[4494.18 --> 4494.54] Son -[4494.54 --> 4495.62] Put -[4495.62 --> 4495.72] It -[4495.72 --> 4495.82] To -[4495.82 --> 4495.96] The -[4495.96 --> 4496.40] Test -[4496.40 --> 4499.36] Remember -[4499.36 --> 4500.20] And -[4500.20 --> 4500.76] See -[4500.76 --> 4502.14] Who -[4502.14 --> 4503.18] Jesus -[4503.18 --> 4504.42] Is -[4504.42 --> 4505.42] And -[4505.42 --> 4505.68] What -[4505.68 --> 4505.86] He -[4505.86 --> 4506.16] Did -[4506.16 --> 4507.72] And -[4507.72 --> 4507.78] It -[4507.78 --> 4508.00] Doesn't -[4508.00 --> 4508.28] Matter -[4508.28 --> 4508.54] How -[4508.54 --> 4508.84] Old -[4508.84 --> 4509.00] You -[4509.00 --> 4509.32] Are -[4509.32 --> 4510.58] And -[4510.58 --> 4511.02] If -[4511.02 --> 4511.14] You -[4511.14 --> 4511.36] Have -[4511.36 --> 4511.64] Had -[4511.64 --> 4511.78] A -[4511.78 --> 4512.06] Hard -[4512.06 --> 4512.60] Time -[4512.60 --> 4513.32] Saying -[4513.32 --> 4513.80] No -[4513.80 --> 4514.08] To -[4514.08 --> 4514.40] Doing -[4514.40 --> 4514.82] Something -[4514.82 --> 4515.24] Wrong -[4515.24 --> 4515.46] Or -[4515.46 --> 4515.56] If -[4515.56 --> 4515.62] You -[4515.62 --> 4515.82] Have -[4515.82 --> 4515.96] Had -[4515.96 --> 4516.08] A -[4516.08 --> 4516.28] Hard -[4516.28 --> 4516.58] Time -[4516.58 --> 4516.84] Just -[4516.84 --> 4517.22] Waiting -[4517.22 --> 4517.48] For -[4517.48 --> 4517.80] Something -[4517.80 --> 4518.26] Good -[4518.26 --> 4519.16] Jesus -[4519.16 --> 4519.66] Knows -[4519.66 --> 4519.88] What -[4519.88 --> 4520.04] That -[4520.04 --> 4520.42] Feels -[4520.42 --> 4520.88] Like -[4520.88 --> 4522.32] He -[4522.32 --> 4522.58] Had -[4522.58 --> 4522.74] To -[4522.74 --> 4523.00] Wait -[4523.00 --> 4523.22] He -[4523.22 --> 4523.46] Had -[4523.46 --> 4523.60] To -[4523.60 --> 4523.78] Go -[4523.78 --> 4524.08] Without -[4524.08 --> 4524.58] He -[4524.58 --> 4524.84] Had -[4524.84 --> 4524.98] To -[4524.98 --> 4525.30] Trust -[4525.30 --> 4525.74] God -[4525.74 --> 4527.08] And -[4527.08 --> 4527.42] Each -[4527.42 --> 4527.92] Time -[4527.92 --> 4528.16] In -[4528.16 --> 4528.36] That -[4528.36 --> 4528.72] Moment -[4528.72 --> 4529.26] Jesus -[4529.26 --> 4529.98] Responds -[4529.98 --> 4530.56] Not -[4530.56 --> 4530.88] With -[4530.88 --> 4531.70] Cleverness -[4531.70 --> 4531.92] Or -[4531.92 --> 4532.42] Power -[4532.42 --> 4532.94] But -[4532.94 --> 4533.24] With -[4533.24 --> 4533.48] The -[4533.48 --> 4533.80] Word -[4533.80 --> 4534.04] Of -[4534.04 --> 4534.42] God -[4534.42 --> 4535.32] Spoken -[4535.32 --> 4536.18] Trusted -[4536.18 --> 4537.82] Obeyed -[4537.82 --> 4538.30] Right -[4538.30 --> 4538.54] Where -[4538.54 --> 4539.16] Israel -[4539.16 --> 4539.82] Grumbled -[4539.82 --> 4540.68] Jesus -[4540.68 --> 4541.26] Gives -[4541.26 --> 4541.92] Thanks -[4541.92 --> 4542.34] Where -[4542.34 --> 4542.72] Adam -[4542.72 --> 4543.14] Reached -[4543.14 --> 4543.36] Out -[4543.36 --> 4543.54] For -[4543.54 --> 4543.72] What -[4543.72 --> 4543.90] Was -[4543.90 --> 4544.38] Forbidden -[4544.38 --> 4545.00] Jesus -[4545.00 --> 4545.74] Refuses -[4545.74 --> 4546.30] What -[4546.30 --> 4546.46] Is -[4546.46 --> 4546.88] Offered -[4546.88 --> 4548.44] Where -[4548.44 --> 4548.76] We -[4548.76 --> 4549.16] So -[4549.16 --> 4549.68] Often -[4549.68 --> 4550.76] Negotiate -[4550.76 --> 4550.96] With -[4550.96 --> 4551.10] Our -[4551.10 --> 4551.76] Temptation -[4551.76 --> 4553.00] Jesus -[4553.00 --> 4553.60] Stands -[4553.60 --> 4554.12] Firm -[4554.12 --> 4556.42] This -[4556.42 --> 4556.50] Is -[4556.50 --> 4556.62] The -[4556.62 --> 4556.78] Main -[4556.78 --> 4557.04] Idea -[4557.04 --> 4557.26] This -[4557.26 --> 4557.36] Is -[4557.36 --> 4557.50] The -[4557.50 --> 4557.70] Big -[4557.70 --> 4558.00] Point -[4558.00 --> 4558.20] For -[4558.20 --> 4558.38] Us -[4558.38 --> 4558.54] This -[4558.54 --> 4558.74] Morning -[4558.74 --> 4558.94] If -[4558.94 --> 4559.06] You -[4559.06 --> 4559.30] Hear -[4559.30 --> 4559.58] One -[4559.58 --> 4559.90] Line -[4559.90 --> 4560.16] From -[4560.16 --> 4560.38] Me -[4560.38 --> 4560.82] Today -[4560.82 --> 4561.12] And -[4561.12 --> 4561.24] You -[4561.24 --> 4561.46] Take -[4561.46 --> 4561.62] That -[4561.62 --> 4561.78] With -[4561.78 --> 4561.90] You -[4561.90 --> 4562.10] Into -[4562.10 --> 4562.30] This -[4562.30 --> 4562.48] Week -[4562.48 --> 4562.88] May -[4562.88 --> 4563.02] It -[4563.02 --> 4563.14] Be -[4563.14 --> 4563.46] This -[4563.46 --> 4564.48] Right -[4564.48 --> 4564.94] Jesus -[4564.94 --> 4565.68] Stands -[4565.68 --> 4565.96] Where -[4565.96 --> 4566.20] We -[4566.20 --> 4566.48] Should -[4566.48 --> 4566.60] Have -[4566.60 --> 4566.96] Stood -[4566.96 --> 4567.98] In -[4567.98 --> 4568.62] Obedience -[4568.62 --> 4569.04] In -[4569.04 --> 4569.68] Temptation -[4569.68 --> 4570.12] In -[4570.12 --> 4570.82] Righteousness -[4570.82 --> 4571.40] So -[4571.40 --> 4571.70] That -[4571.70 --> 4572.62] Clothed -[4572.62 --> 4572.86] With -[4572.86 --> 4573.36] Him -[4573.36 --> 4573.90] We -[4573.90 --> 4574.26] Might -[4574.26 --> 4574.70] Hear -[4574.70 --> 4575.10] God -[4575.10 --> 4575.62] Say -[4575.62 --> 4576.24] You -[4576.24 --> 4576.62] Are -[4576.62 --> 4576.88] My -[4576.88 --> 4577.52] Sons -[4577.52 --> 4578.06] And -[4578.06 --> 4578.56] Daughters -[4578.56 --> 4579.32] I -[4579.32 --> 4580.06] Love -[4580.06 --> 4580.82] You -[4580.82 --> 4582.88] And -[4582.88 --> 4583.16] The -[4583.16 --> 4583.42] Point -[4583.42 --> 4583.66] Here -[4583.66 --> 4583.84] Is -[4583.84 --> 4584.16] Is -[4584.16 --> 4584.42] Not -[4584.42 --> 4584.90] Just -[4584.90 --> 4585.16] That -[4585.16 --> 4585.54] Jesus -[4585.54 --> 4586.32] Jesus -[4586.32 --> 4586.80] Gives -[4586.80 --> 4587.06] Us -[4587.06 --> 4587.26] A -[4587.26 --> 4587.48] Better -[4587.48 --> 4588.08] Exam -[4588.08 --> 4588.94] Though -[4588.94 --> 4589.06] He -[4589.06 --> 4589.46] Does -[4589.46 --> 4590.30] Right -[4590.30 --> 4590.48] The -[4590.48 --> 4590.88] Point -[4590.88 --> 4591.26] Is -[4591.26 --> 4591.44] That -[4591.44 --> 4591.68] He -[4591.68 --> 4592.14] Goes -[4592.14 --> 4592.42] In -[4592.42 --> 4592.74] Our -[4592.74 --> 4593.34] Place -[4593.34 --> 4594.68] Right -[4594.68 --> 4594.86] He -[4594.86 --> 4595.72] Resists -[4595.72 --> 4596.32] This -[4596.32 --> 4597.04] Temptation -[4597.04 --> 4597.64] As -[4597.64 --> 4598.04] Our -[4598.04 --> 4599.02] Representative -[4599.02 --> 4599.58] He -[4599.58 --> 4600.38] Stands -[4600.38 --> 4601.02] As -[4601.02 --> 4601.34] Your -[4601.34 --> 4602.22] Substitute -[4602.22 --> 4603.84] And -[4603.84 --> 4604.00] The -[4604.00 --> 4604.30] Same -[4604.30 --> 4604.78] Spirit -[4604.78 --> 4605.12] Then -[4605.12 --> 4605.32] Who -[4605.32 --> 4605.82] Descended -[4605.82 --> 4606.14] On -[4606.14 --> 4606.46] Him -[4606.46 --> 4606.72] At -[4606.72 --> 4606.90] The -[4606.90 --> 4607.26] Jordan -[4607.26 --> 4608.04] Empowers -[4608.04 --> 4608.40] Him -[4608.40 --> 4608.90] In -[4608.90 --> 4609.06] The -[4609.06 --> 4609.46] Wilderness -[4609.46 --> 4609.72] The -[4609.72 --> 4610.06] Same -[4610.06 --> 4610.46] Word -[4610.46 --> 4610.66] That -[4610.66 --> 4611.12] Declared -[4611.12 --> 4611.48] Him -[4611.48 --> 4612.00] The -[4612.00 --> 4612.38] Loved -[4612.38 --> 4612.84] Son -[4612.84 --> 4613.06] Of -[4613.06 --> 4613.36] God -[4613.36 --> 4613.84] Becomes -[4613.84 --> 4614.10] The -[4614.10 --> 4614.34] Word -[4614.34 --> 4614.52] That -[4614.52 --> 4614.68] He -[4614.68 --> 4615.28] Stands -[4615.28 --> 4615.62] On -[4615.62 --> 4616.00] Against -[4616.00 --> 4616.24] The -[4616.24 --> 4616.62] Lies -[4616.62 --> 4617.08] Of -[4617.08 --> 4617.22] The -[4617.22 --> 4617.50] Enemy -[4617.50 --> 4619.48] Deliver -[4619.48 --> 4619.86] Us -[4622.74 --> 4622.84] Is -[4622.84 --> 4623.04] The -[4623.04 --> 4623.76] Obedience -[4623.76 --> 4624.00] That -[4624.00 --> 4624.48] Fulfills -[4624.48 --> 4624.78] All -[4624.78 --> 4625.82] Righteousness -[4625.82 --> 4628.32] Jesus -[4628.32 --> 4628.64] Is -[4628.64 --> 4628.86] Not -[4628.86 --> 4629.58] Simply -[4629.58 --> 4630.94] Avoiding -[4630.94 --> 4631.72] Sin -[4631.72 --> 4632.76] He -[4632.76 --> 4632.94] Is -[4632.94 --> 4633.52] Actively -[4633.52 --> 4634.36] Securing -[4634.36 --> 4635.10] Our -[4635.10 --> 4635.86] Salvation -[4635.86 --> 4637.92] Right -[4637.92 --> 4638.14] By -[4638.14 --> 4638.46] His -[4638.46 --> 4639.10] Obedience -[4639.10 --> 4639.36] Not -[4639.36 --> 4639.66] Just -[4639.66 --> 4639.90] In -[4639.90 --> 4640.16] Death -[4640.16 --> 4640.32] But -[4640.32 --> 4640.54] Also -[4640.54 --> 4640.70] In -[4640.70 --> 4640.86] His -[4640.86 --> 4641.36] Life -[4641.36 --> 4641.86] Right -[4641.86 --> 4642.02] The -[4642.02 --> 4643.02] Righteousness -[4643.02 --> 4643.28] Of -[4643.28 --> 4643.72] God -[4643.72 --> 4644.06] Is -[4644.06 --> 4644.88] Fulfilled -[4644.88 --> 4645.26] He -[4645.26 --> 4645.70] Lived -[4645.70 --> 4645.88] The -[4645.88 --> 4646.12] Life -[4646.12 --> 4646.32] I -[4646.32 --> 4646.50] Should -[4646.50 --> 4646.64] Have -[4646.64 --> 4646.84] Lived -[4646.84 --> 4647.40] And -[4647.40 --> 4648.20] He -[4648.20 --> 4648.34] Is -[4648.34 --> 4648.70] Doing -[4648.70 --> 4649.12] That -[4649.12 --> 4649.50] Right -[4649.50 --> 4649.96] There -[4649.96 --> 4650.38] In -[4650.38 --> 4650.70] This -[4650.70 --> 4651.28] Story -[4651.28 --> 4652.44] Perfectly -[4652.44 --> 4653.48] Obedient -[4653.48 --> 4656.88] Jesus -[4656.88 --> 4657.38] Did -[4657.38 --> 4657.70] Not -[4657.70 --> 4658.86] Overcome -[4658.86 --> 4659.84] Temptation -[4659.84 --> 4660.44] So -[4660.44 --> 4660.58] That -[4660.58 --> 4660.74] He -[4660.74 --> 4660.94] Could -[4660.94 --> 4661.14] Look -[4661.14 --> 4661.44] Down -[4661.44 --> 4661.70] On -[4661.70 --> 4661.90] You -[4661.90 --> 4662.16] When -[4662.16 --> 4662.34] You -[4662.34 --> 4662.72] Fail -[4662.72 --> 4664.12] He -[4664.12 --> 4664.72] Overcame -[4664.72 --> 4665.48] Temptation -[4665.48 --> 4665.78] So -[4665.78 --> 4666.02] That -[4666.02 --> 4666.28] When -[4666.28 --> 4666.50] You -[4666.50 --> 4666.90] Fail -[4666.90 --> 4667.32] He -[4667.32 --> 4667.46] Could -[4667.46 --> 4667.58] Be -[4667.58 --> 4667.78] Your -[4667.78 --> 4668.12] Savior -[4668.12 --> 4669.28] So -[4669.28 --> 4669.44] That -[4669.44 --> 4669.64] When -[4669.64 --> 4669.84] You -[4669.84 --> 4670.28] Fall -[4670.28 --> 4670.50] You -[4670.50 --> 4670.66] Would -[4670.66 --> 4671.02] Fall -[4671.02 --> 4671.26] Into -[4671.26 --> 4671.48] His -[4671.48 --> 4671.92] Mercy -[4671.92 --> 4672.80] And -[4672.80 --> 4672.96] Not -[4672.96 --> 4673.42] Judgment -[4673.42 --> 4674.42] So -[4674.42 --> 4674.54] That -[4674.54 --> 4674.68] When -[4674.68 --> 4674.88] You -[4674.88 --> 4675.56] Identify -[4675.56 --> 4675.78] As -[4675.78 --> 4675.90] A -[4675.90 --> 4676.26] Child -[4676.26 --> 4676.48] Of -[4676.48 --> 4676.96] God -[4676.96 --> 4677.46] You -[4677.46 --> 4677.60] Would -[4677.60 --> 4678.14] Rest -[4678.14 --> 4678.52] Not -[4678.52 --> 4678.78] On -[4678.78 --> 4679.06] Your -[4679.06 --> 4679.70] Performance -[4679.70 --> 4680.14] But -[4680.14 --> 4680.38] On -[4680.38 --> 4680.84] His -[4680.84 --> 4682.04] Obedience -[4682.04 --> 4684.06] This -[4684.06 --> 4684.16] Is -[4684.16 --> 4684.28] The -[4684.28 --> 4684.74] Gospel -[4684.74 --> 4685.26] Made -[4685.26 --> 4685.66] Real -[4685.66 --> 4685.88] For -[4685.88 --> 4686.08] Us -[4686.08 --> 4686.36] Today -[4686.36 --> 4686.78] You -[4686.78 --> 4686.96] Are -[4686.96 --> 4687.20] Not -[4687.20 --> 4687.68] Named -[4687.68 --> 4687.96] By -[4687.96 --> 4688.20] Your -[4688.20 --> 4688.58] Sin -[4688.58 --> 4688.78] You -[4688.78 --> 4688.90] Are -[4688.90 --> 4689.04] Not -[4689.04 --> 4689.60] Defined -[4689.60 --> 4689.80] By -[4689.80 --> 4689.98] Your -[4689.98 --> 4690.66] Temptations -[4690.66 --> 4691.12] You -[4691.12 --> 4691.26] Are -[4691.26 --> 4691.42] Not -[4691.42 --> 4691.78] Left -[4691.78 --> 4692.06] To -[4692.06 --> 4692.38] Face -[4692.38 --> 4692.62] Them -[4692.62 --> 4693.14] Alone -[4693.14 --> 4693.76] You -[4693.76 --> 4694.00] Have -[4694.00 --> 4694.16] A -[4694.16 --> 4694.56] King -[4694.56 --> 4694.94] Who -[4694.94 --> 4695.10] Has -[4695.10 --> 4695.38] Gone -[4695.38 --> 4695.72] Before -[4695.72 --> 4696.04] You -[4696.04 --> 4696.42] You -[4696.42 --> 4696.60] Have -[4696.60 --> 4696.72] A -[4696.72 --> 4697.00] High -[4697.00 --> 4697.34] Priest -[4697.34 --> 4697.50] Who -[4697.50 --> 4697.68] Is -[4697.68 --> 4698.18] Tempted -[4698.18 --> 4698.56] In -[4698.56 --> 4699.04] Every -[4699.04 --> 4699.52] Way -[4699.52 --> 4700.14] Just -[4700.14 --> 4700.38] As -[4700.38 --> 4700.56] You -[4700.56 --> 4700.76] Are -[4700.76 --> 4701.02] Yet -[4701.02 --> 4701.30] Is -[4701.30 --> 4701.70] Without -[4701.70 --> 4702.34] Sin -[4702.34 --> 4702.56] You -[4702.56 --> 4702.76] Have -[4702.76 --> 4702.98] A -[4702.98 --> 4703.32] Savior -[4703.32 --> 4703.62] Who -[4703.62 --> 4703.88] Has -[4703.88 --> 4704.58] Fulfilled -[4704.58 --> 4705.20] All -[4705.20 --> 4706.16] Righteousness -[4706.16 --> 4706.34] And -[4706.34 --> 4706.50] Who -[4706.50 --> 4707.08] Freely -[4707.08 --> 4707.50] Now -[4707.50 --> 4708.18] Gives -[4708.18 --> 4708.38] It -[4708.38 --> 4708.60] To -[4708.60 --> 4709.06] You -[4709.06 --> 4709.68] Who -[4709.68 --> 4710.10] Trust -[4710.10 --> 4710.34] In -[4710.34 --> 4710.60] Him -[4710.60 --> 4711.04] Alone -[4711.04 --> 4712.90] And -[4712.90 --> 4713.02] When -[4713.02 --> 4713.24] You -[4713.24 --> 4713.40] Are -[4713.40 --> 4713.86] United -[4713.86 --> 4714.08] To -[4714.08 --> 4714.38] Him -[4714.38 --> 4714.58] By -[4714.58 --> 4715.08] Faith -[4715.08 --> 4715.62] What -[4715.62 --> 4715.80] The -[4715.80 --> 4716.18] Father -[4716.18 --> 4716.66] Said -[4716.66 --> 4716.90] To -[4716.90 --> 4717.42] Jesus -[4717.42 --> 4718.18] He -[4718.18 --> 4718.48] Now -[4718.48 --> 4718.86] Says -[4718.86 --> 4719.10] To -[4719.10 --> 4719.42] You -[4719.42 --> 4720.18] This -[4720.18 --> 4720.60] Is -[4720.60 --> 4720.88] My -[4720.88 --> 4721.48] Child -[4721.48 --> 4722.34] Whom -[4722.34 --> 4722.56] I -[4722.56 --> 4722.94] Love -[4722.94 --> 4723.94] With -[4723.94 --> 4724.26] You -[4724.26 --> 4724.68] I -[4724.68 --> 4724.94] Am -[4724.94 --> 4725.30] Well -[4725.30 --> 4726.30] Pleased -[4726.30 --> 4728.08] Not -[4728.08 --> 4728.32] Because -[4728.32 --> 4728.50] You're -[4728.50 --> 4728.80] Righteous -[4728.80 --> 4728.98] In -[4728.98 --> 4729.54] Yourself -[4729.54 --> 4731.56] But -[4731.56 --> 4732.04] Because -[4732.04 --> 4732.34] In -[4732.34 --> 4732.56] Your -[4732.56 --> 4733.38] Baptism -[4733.38 --> 4734.14] Into -[4734.14 --> 4734.78] Christ -[4734.78 --> 4735.20] You -[4735.20 --> 4735.52] Are -[4735.52 --> 4736.46] Clothed -[4736.46 --> 4736.84] With -[4736.84 --> 4737.02] A -[4737.02 --> 4737.66] Righteousness -[4737.66 --> 4737.92] That -[4737.92 --> 4738.48] Cannot -[4738.48 --> 4738.76] Be -[4738.76 --> 4739.48] Shaken -[4739.48 --> 4741.82] That's -[4741.82 --> 4741.96] What -[4741.96 --> 4742.24] Alyssa -[4742.24 --> 4742.86] Professed -[4742.86 --> 4743.52] This -[4743.52 --> 4743.80] Morning -[4743.80 --> 4745.88] This -[4745.88 --> 4745.98] Is -[4745.98 --> 4746.10] The -[4746.10 --> 4746.54] Gospel -[4746.54 --> 4747.68] Right -[4747.68 --> 4747.82] This -[4747.82 --> 4747.92] Is -[4747.92 --> 4748.10] The -[4748.10 --> 4748.52] Son -[4748.52 --> 4749.14] In -[4749.14 --> 4749.38] Whom -[4749.38 --> 4749.56] The -[4749.56 --> 4750.00] Father -[4750.00 --> 4750.40] Is -[4750.40 --> 4750.74] Well -[4750.74 --> 4751.50] Pleased -[4751.50 --> 4752.20] Behold -[4752.20 --> 4752.52] Your -[4752.52 --> 4753.02] King -[4753.02 --> 4753.50] And -[4753.50 --> 4753.66] In -[4753.66 --> 4753.98] Him -[4753.98 --> 4754.74] Behold -[4754.74 --> 4755.26] Who -[4755.26 --> 4755.50] You -[4755.50 --> 4756.02] Truly -[4756.02 --> 4756.86] Are -[4756.86 --> 4761.68] John -[4761.68 --> 4762.64] Chrysostom -[4762.64 --> 4763.72] Is -[4763.72 --> 4764.22] A -[4764.22 --> 4764.64] Fourth -[4764.64 --> 4765.32] Century -[4765.32 --> 4766.08] Church -[4766.08 --> 4766.46] Father -[4766.46 --> 4768.02] Who -[4768.02 --> 4768.20] Was -[4768.20 --> 4768.62] Famous -[4768.62 --> 4768.78] For -[4768.78 --> 4768.96] His -[4768.96 --> 4769.34] Preaching -[4769.34 --> 4769.62] His -[4769.62 --> 4770.06] Last -[4770.06 --> 4770.34] Name -[4770.34 --> 4770.60] There -[4770.60 --> 4770.90] Means -[4770.90 --> 4771.26] Golden -[4771.26 --> 4771.68] Mouth -[4771.68 --> 4773.64] He -[4773.64 --> 4774.10] Asks -[4774.10 --> 4774.30] A -[4774.30 --> 4774.74] Question -[4774.74 --> 4775.42] That -[4775.42 --> 4775.54] Is -[4775.54 --> 4775.94] Important -[4775.94 --> 4776.28] I -[4776.28 --> 4776.48] Think -[4776.48 --> 4776.66] For -[4776.66 --> 4776.86] Us -[4776.86 --> 4777.16] Making -[4777.16 --> 4777.42] This -[4777.42 --> 4777.70] Real -[4777.70 --> 4779.76] He -[4779.76 --> 4780.16] Says -[4780.16 --> 4781.24] Jesus -[4781.24 --> 4782.46] Who -[4782.46 --> 4782.72] Had -[4782.72 --> 4783.10] Heaven -[4783.10 --> 4783.40] For -[4783.40 --> 4783.64] His -[4783.64 --> 4784.24] Portion -[4784.24 --> 4784.88] Gave -[4784.88 --> 4785.04] It -[4785.04 --> 4785.24] Up -[4785.24 --> 4785.46] So -[4785.46 --> 4785.60] That -[4785.60 --> 4785.76] We -[4785.76 --> 4786.02] Might -[4786.02 --> 4786.30] Gain -[4786.30 --> 4786.52] It -[4786.52 --> 4787.84] What -[4787.84 --> 4788.34] Excuse -[4788.34 --> 4788.60] Do -[4788.60 --> 4788.84] You -[4788.84 --> 4789.26] Have -[4789.26 --> 4789.50] For -[4789.50 --> 4789.76] Running -[4789.76 --> 4789.98] To -[4789.98 --> 4790.18] The -[4790.18 --> 4790.64] Serpent -[4790.64 --> 4791.64] After -[4791.64 --> 4792.16] Receiving -[4792.16 --> 4792.36] The -[4792.36 --> 4792.74] Dove -[4792.74 --> 4795.72] I -[4795.72 --> 4795.90] Read -[4795.90 --> 4796.08] That -[4796.08 --> 4796.30] This -[4796.30 --> 4796.58] Week -[4796.58 --> 4797.36] And -[4797.36 --> 4797.48] It -[4797.48 --> 4797.74] Hurt -[4797.74 --> 4799.82] Cut -[4799.82 --> 4800.04] Me -[4800.04 --> 4800.82] To -[4800.82 --> 4800.96] The -[4800.96 --> 4801.20] Core -[4801.20 --> 4804.92] Repentance -[4804.92 --> 4805.46] Calls -[4805.46 --> 4805.64] For -[4805.64 --> 4806.16] Total -[4806.16 --> 4806.84] Life -[4806.84 --> 4807.80] Change -[4807.80 --> 4809.60] And yet -[4809.60 --> 4809.74] There's -[4809.74 --> 4809.86] So -[4809.86 --> 4809.98] Many -[4809.98 --> 4810.30] Places -[4810.30 --> 4810.46] That -[4810.46 --> 4810.56] I -[4810.56 --> 4810.70] See -[4810.70 --> 4811.08] Myself -[4811.08 --> 4811.50] Running -[4811.50 --> 4812.28] To -[4812.28 --> 4812.46] The -[4812.46 --> 4812.92] Serpent -[4812.92 --> 4814.32] After -[4814.32 --> 4814.72] Receiving -[4814.72 --> 4814.88] The -[4814.88 --> 4815.16] Dove -[4815.16 --> 4820.12] How -[4820.12 --> 4820.24] Do -[4820.24 --> 4820.36] We -[4820.36 --> 4822.76] How -[4822.76 --> 4822.84] Do -[4822.84 --> 4822.96] We -[4822.96 --> 4823.36] Live -[4823.36 --> 4823.60] As -[4823.60 --> 4823.98] Those -[4823.98 --> 4824.82] Who -[4824.82 --> 4824.92] Have -[4824.92 --> 4825.04] Been -[4825.04 --> 4825.64] Embraced -[4825.64 --> 4826.16] By -[4826.16 --> 4826.30] The -[4826.30 --> 4826.50] Spirit -[4826.50 --> 4826.66] Of -[4826.66 --> 4826.92] God -[4826.92 --> 4828.56] Instead -[4828.56 --> 4828.76] Of -[4828.76 --> 4829.04] Running -[4829.04 --> 4829.72] To -[4829.72 --> 4830.20] The -[4830.20 --> 4830.60] Serpent -[4830.60 --> 4831.00] Run -[4831.00 --> 4831.30] Away -[4831.30 --> 4832.04] From -[4832.04 --> 4832.86] The -[4832.86 --> 4833.20] Serpent -[4833.20 --> 4835.66] John -[4835.66 --> 4835.92] Mark -[4835.92 --> 4836.22] Homer -[4836.22 --> 4837.36] In -[4837.36 --> 4837.56] His -[4837.56 --> 4837.90] Book -[4837.90 --> 4838.86] Practicing -[4838.86 --> 4839.06] The -[4839.06 --> 4839.38] Way -[4839.38 --> 4840.84] Says -[4840.84 --> 4841.32] That -[4841.32 --> 4842.80] Following -[4842.80 --> 4843.36] Jesus -[4843.36 --> 4843.80] Doesn't -[4843.80 --> 4844.02] Work -[4844.02 --> 4844.14] As -[4844.14 --> 4844.26] A -[4844.26 --> 4844.56] Hobby -[4844.56 --> 4847.12] What -[4847.12 --> 4847.22] He -[4847.22 --> 4847.42] Means -[4847.42 --> 4847.62] By -[4847.62 --> 4847.98] That -[4847.98 --> 4848.94] Is -[4848.94 --> 4849.26] That -[4849.26 --> 4849.70] It's -[4849.70 --> 4849.96] Not -[4849.96 --> 4850.50] Something -[4850.50 --> 4851.40] Optional -[4851.40 --> 4851.62] That -[4851.62 --> 4851.80] You -[4851.80 --> 4851.96] Can -[4851.96 --> 4852.58] Add -[4852.58 --> 4852.90] To -[4852.90 --> 4853.08] The -[4853.08 --> 4853.34] Main -[4853.34 --> 4853.66] Point -[4853.66 --> 4853.84] Of -[4853.84 --> 4854.00] Your -[4854.00 --> 4854.36] Life -[4854.36 --> 4856.46] So -[4856.46 --> 4856.62] Many -[4856.62 --> 4856.74] Of -[4856.74 --> 4856.86] Us -[4856.86 --> 4857.20] Approach -[4857.20 --> 4857.38] Our -[4857.38 --> 4857.92] Relationship -[4857.92 --> 4858.04] To -[4858.04 --> 4858.30] God -[4858.30 --> 4858.46] And -[4858.46 --> 4858.56] To -[4858.56 --> 4858.86] Jesus -[4858.86 --> 4859.36] Like -[4859.36 --> 4859.48] A -[4859.48 --> 4859.74] Hobby -[4859.74 --> 4860.72] Maybe -[4860.72 --> 4860.92] You -[4860.92 --> 4861.22] Live -[4861.22 --> 4861.44] For -[4861.44 --> 4862.00] Fame -[4862.00 --> 4862.40] Maybe -[4862.40 --> 4862.52] You -[4862.52 --> 4862.70] Want -[4862.70 --> 4862.78] To -[4862.78 --> 4862.90] Be -[4862.90 --> 4863.04] A -[4863.04 --> 4863.30] YouTube -[4863.30 --> 4863.98] Streamer -[4863.98 --> 4865.38] Maybe -[4865.38 --> 4865.56] You -[4865.56 --> 4865.76] Live -[4865.76 --> 4865.96] For -[4865.96 --> 4866.14] Your -[4866.14 --> 4866.68] Career -[4866.68 --> 4867.16] Or -[4867.16 --> 4867.32] For -[4867.32 --> 4867.86] Sports -[4867.86 --> 4868.10] Or -[4868.10 --> 4868.30] For -[4868.30 --> 4868.78] Fitness -[4868.78 --> 4869.40] Maybe -[4869.40 --> 4870.10] Everything -[4870.10 --> 4870.40] You -[4870.40 --> 4870.60] Do -[4870.60 --> 4870.76] In -[4870.76 --> 4870.94] This -[4870.94 --> 4871.24] Life -[4871.24 --> 4871.46] Is -[4871.46 --> 4871.62] For -[4871.62 --> 4871.78] The -[4871.78 --> 4872.24] Purpose -[4872.24 --> 4872.62] Of -[4872.62 --> 4873.16] Earning -[4873.16 --> 4873.42] Your -[4873.42 --> 4873.90] Father's -[4873.90 --> 4874.46] Approval -[4874.46 --> 4876.38] And -[4876.38 --> 4876.50] The -[4876.50 --> 4876.76] Truth -[4876.76 --> 4877.10] Is -[4877.10 --> 4877.48] You -[4877.48 --> 4877.86] Simply -[4877.86 --> 4878.38] Can't -[4878.38 --> 4878.90] Add -[4878.90 --> 4879.32] Jesus -[4879.32 --> 4879.60] To -[4879.60 --> 4879.76] The -[4879.76 --> 4880.06] Top -[4880.06 --> 4880.24] Of -[4880.24 --> 4880.46] That -[4880.46 --> 4880.96] List -[4880.96 --> 4881.12] Of -[4881.12 --> 4881.44] Things -[4881.44 --> 4883.14] You -[4883.14 --> 4883.42] Can't -[4883.42 --> 4883.66] Add -[4883.66 --> 4884.06] Jesus -[4884.06 --> 4885.04] To -[4885.04 --> 4885.24] A -[4885.24 --> 4885.54] List -[4885.54 --> 4886.18] When -[4886.18 --> 4886.36] We -[4886.36 --> 4886.54] Are -[4886.54 --> 4887.02] Already -[4887.02 --> 4887.38] An -[4887.38 --> 4887.98] Over -[4887.98 --> 4888.46] Busy -[4888.46 --> 4889.50] Consumeristic -[4889.50 --> 4890.34] Emotionally -[4890.34 --> 4890.96] Unhealthy -[4890.96 --> 4891.38] Hyper -[4891.38 --> 4892.32] Individualistic -[4892.32 --> 4892.80] Digitally -[4892.80 --> 4893.54] Distracted -[4893.54 --> 4894.06] Media -[4894.06 --> 4894.86] Saturated -[4894.86 --> 4896.08] Undisciplined -[4896.08 --> 4896.60] Modern -[4896.60 --> 4897.04] People -[4897.04 --> 4898.82] But -[4898.82 --> 4899.00] That's -[4899.00 --> 4899.32] Exactly -[4899.32 --> 4899.50] How -[4899.50 --> 4899.78] Most -[4899.78 --> 4899.92] Of -[4899.92 --> 4900.06] Us -[4900.06 --> 4900.52] Approach -[4900.52 --> 4901.26] Jesus -[4901.26 --> 4903.06] So -[4903.06 --> 4903.28] Most -[4903.28 --> 4903.38] Of -[4903.38 --> 4903.48] Us -[4903.48 --> 4903.76] Approach -[4903.76 --> 4903.88] Our -[4903.88 --> 4904.58] Discipleship -[4904.58 --> 4905.86] And -[4905.86 --> 4905.94] To -[4905.94 --> 4906.08] Be -[4906.08 --> 4906.54] Honest -[4906.54 --> 4906.84] It -[4906.84 --> 4907.20] Just -[4907.20 --> 4908.14] Doesn't -[4908.14 --> 4908.92] Work -[4908.92 --> 4910.90] It's -[4910.90 --> 4911.08] Not -[4911.08 --> 4911.34] Enough -[4911.34 --> 4911.56] To -[4911.56 --> 4911.98] Dash -[4911.98 --> 4912.16] A -[4912.16 --> 4912.32] Little -[4912.32 --> 4912.52] Bit -[4912.52 --> 4912.66] Of -[4912.66 --> 4913.00] Jesus -[4913.00 --> 4913.40] In -[4913.40 --> 4913.72] Every -[4913.72 --> 4914.00] Now -[4914.00 --> 4914.14] And -[4914.14 --> 4914.46] Again -[4914.46 --> 4914.94] The -[4914.94 --> 4915.24] Whole -[4915.24 --> 4915.72] Point -[4915.72 --> 4915.90] Of -[4915.90 --> 4916.12] This -[4916.12 --> 4916.64] Text -[4916.64 --> 4917.12] That -[4917.12 --> 4917.36] We -[4917.36 --> 4917.48] Have -[4917.48 --> 4917.58] Been -[4917.58 --> 4917.88] Trying -[4917.88 --> 4918.10] To -[4918.10 --> 4918.40] See -[4918.40 --> 4918.64] And -[4918.64 --> 4918.94] Hear -[4918.94 --> 4919.20] In -[4919.20 --> 4919.44] That -[4919.44 --> 4919.88] The -[4919.88 --> 4920.04] Whole -[4920.04 --> 4920.34] Point -[4920.34 --> 4920.54] Of -[4920.54 --> 4921.00] Following -[4921.00 --> 4921.74] Jesus -[4921.74 --> 4922.10] Is -[4922.10 --> 4922.26] That -[4922.26 --> 4922.58] He -[4922.58 --> 4922.94] Must -[4922.94 --> 4923.40] Become -[4923.40 --> 4923.64] The -[4923.64 --> 4924.10] Main -[4924.10 --> 4924.50] Thing -[4924.50 --> 4924.76] Of -[4927.04 --> 4927.30] Producing -[4927.30 --> 4927.68] Fruit -[4927.68 --> 4927.94] In -[4927.94 --> 4928.24] Keeping -[4928.24 --> 4928.50] With -[4928.50 --> 4928.66] Our -[4928.66 --> 4929.40] Repentance -[4929.40 --> 4929.94] In -[4929.94 --> 4930.30] Line -[4930.30 --> 4930.56] With -[4930.56 --> 4930.94] God's -[4930.94 --> 4931.28] Plan -[4931.28 --> 4931.50] And -[4931.50 --> 4931.96] Design -[4931.96 --> 4932.92] Is -[4932.92 --> 4933.64] Life -[4933.64 --> 4936.92] And -[4936.92 --> 4937.02] In -[4937.02 --> 4937.16] Our -[4937.16 --> 4937.48] Cultural -[4937.48 --> 4938.00] Moment -[4938.00 --> 4938.80] Where -[4938.80 --> 4938.96] We're -[4938.96 --> 4939.20] Told -[4939.20 --> 4939.38] That -[4939.38 --> 4939.50] There -[4939.50 --> 4939.64] Are -[4939.64 --> 4939.78] No -[4939.78 --> 4940.16] Rules -[4940.16 --> 4940.36] And -[4940.36 --> 4940.48] There -[4940.48 --> 4940.64] Are -[4940.64 --> 4940.80] No -[4940.80 --> 4941.40] Masters -[4941.40 --> 4942.38] Following -[4942.38 --> 4942.94] Jesus -[4942.94 --> 4943.52] Says -[4943.52 --> 4943.74] That -[4943.74 --> 4943.90] We -[4943.90 --> 4944.22] Must -[4944.22 --> 4944.50] Live -[4944.50 --> 4944.86] Our -[4944.86 --> 4945.18] Life -[4945.18 --> 4945.40] By -[4945.40 --> 4945.66] His -[4945.66 --> 4946.08] Rule -[4946.08 --> 4947.66] With -[4947.66 --> 4947.86] Him -[4947.86 --> 4948.02] As -[4948.02 --> 4948.16] Our -[4948.16 --> 4948.58] Master -[4948.58 --> 4951.42] It's -[4951.42 --> 4951.72] Interesting -[4951.72 --> 4952.20] To -[4952.20 --> 4952.40] Me -[4952.40 --> 4952.58] As -[4952.58 --> 4952.86] A -[4952.86 --> 4953.16] Student -[4953.16 --> 4953.34] Of -[4953.34 --> 4953.74] History -[4953.74 --> 4954.00] That -[4954.00 --> 4955.54] Around -[4955.54 --> 4955.84] The -[4955.84 --> 4956.14] Same -[4956.14 --> 4956.70] Time -[4956.70 --> 4957.46] That -[4957.46 --> 4958.00] Christianity -[4958.00 --> 4959.40] Moved -[4959.40 --> 4959.84] From -[4959.84 --> 4960.66] A -[4960.66 --> 4961.48] Minority -[4961.48 --> 4962.66] Religion -[4962.66 --> 4963.08] Under -[4963.08 --> 4963.84] Persecution -[4963.84 --> 4964.70] To -[4964.70 --> 4965.36] The -[4965.36 --> 4966.12] Approved -[4966.12 --> 4966.56] Religion -[4966.56 --> 4966.76] Of -[4966.76 --> 4966.88] The -[4966.88 --> 4967.20] Christian -[4967.20 --> 4967.72] Empire -[4967.72 --> 4968.72] In -[4968.72 --> 4968.84] The -[4968.84 --> 4969.10] Early -[4969.10 --> 4969.48] Fourth -[4969.48 --> 4969.94] Century -[4969.94 --> 4970.24] And -[4970.24 --> 4970.48] Kind -[4970.48 --> 4970.58] Of -[4970.58 --> 4970.96] Throughout -[4970.96 --> 4972.04] Around -[4972.04 --> 4972.30] The -[4972.30 --> 4972.52] Same -[4972.52 --> 4972.98] Time -[4972.98 --> 4973.24] When -[4973.24 --> 4973.98] Emperor -[4973.98 --> 4974.80] Constantine -[4974.80 --> 4975.24] Makes -[4975.24 --> 4975.78] Christianity -[4975.78 --> 4976.10] The -[4976.10 --> 4976.48] Official -[4976.48 --> 4977.02] Religion -[4977.02 --> 4978.14] A -[4978.14 --> 4978.48] Number -[4978.48 --> 4978.78] Of -[4978.78 --> 4979.28] Christians -[4979.28 --> 4979.94] At -[4979.94 --> 4980.10] This -[4980.10 --> 4980.38] Time -[4980.38 --> 4980.84] Started -[4980.84 --> 4981.58] Realizing -[4981.58 --> 4981.92] Just -[4981.92 --> 4982.16] How -[4982.16 --> 4982.60] Hard -[4982.60 --> 4982.80] It -[4982.80 --> 4983.24] Was -[4983.24 --> 4983.78] To -[4983.78 --> 4984.18] Be -[4984.18 --> 4985.10] Distinctly -[4985.10 --> 4985.72] Christian -[4985.72 --> 4986.38] When -[4986.38 --> 4986.70] Everyone -[4986.70 --> 4987.12] Else -[4987.12 --> 4987.48] Is -[4987.48 --> 4987.90] Becoming -[4987.90 --> 4988.70] Nominally -[4988.70 --> 4989.04] Or -[4989.04 --> 4989.68] Culturally -[4989.68 --> 4990.40] Christian -[4990.40 --> 4992.02] And -[4992.02 --> 4992.16] It's -[4992.16 --> 4992.36] About -[4992.36 --> 4992.58] This -[4992.58 --> 4992.82] Same -[4992.82 --> 4993.28] Time -[4993.28 --> 4993.52] That -[4993.52 --> 4994.42] Monasteries -[4994.42 --> 4995.00] Start -[4995.00 --> 4995.14] To -[4995.14 --> 4995.32] Come -[4995.32 --> 4995.54] Onto -[4995.54 --> 4995.70] The -[4995.70 --> 4995.98] Scene -[4995.98 --> 4996.74] It's -[4996.74 --> 4996.94] About -[4996.94 --> 4997.18] This -[4997.18 --> 4997.38] Same -[4997.38 --> 4997.84] Time -[4997.84 --> 4998.30] That -[4998.30 --> 4998.46] The -[4998.46 --> 4998.80] Desert -[4998.80 --> 4999.40] Fathers -[4999.40 --> 5000.00] Emerge -[5000.00 --> 5000.18] These -[5000.18 --> 5000.32] Are -[5000.32 --> 5000.86] People -[5000.86 --> 5002.84] Men -[5002.84 --> 5003.10] And -[5003.10 --> 5003.44] Women -[5003.44 --> 5003.94] Who -[5003.94 --> 5004.88] Intentionally -[5004.88 --> 5005.54] Remove -[5005.54 --> 5006.30] Themselves -[5006.30 --> 5006.72] From -[5006.72 --> 5007.00] The -[5007.00 --> 5007.54] Everyday -[5007.54 --> 5008.12] Cultural -[5008.12 --> 5008.50] Life -[5008.50 --> 5008.70] And -[5008.70 --> 5008.84] They -[5008.84 --> 5009.04] Go -[5009.04 --> 5009.50] Live -[5009.50 --> 5010.04] In -[5010.04 --> 5010.60] Solitude -[5010.60 --> 5010.86] In -[5010.86 --> 5011.04] The -[5011.04 --> 5011.70] Harshness -[5011.70 --> 5012.26] Of -[5012.26 --> 5012.42] The -[5012.42 --> 5012.72] Desert -[5012.72 --> 5013.02] Not -[5013.02 --> 5013.46] Unlike -[5013.46 --> 5013.70] John -[5013.70 --> 5013.82] The -[5013.82 --> 5014.26] Baptist -[5014.26 --> 5018.00] When -[5018.00 --> 5018.16] The -[5018.16 --> 5018.56] Voice -[5018.56 --> 5018.90] And -[5018.90 --> 5019.54] Influence -[5019.54 --> 5019.76] Of -[5019.76 --> 5020.18] Culture -[5020.18 --> 5020.74] Around -[5020.74 --> 5021.02] Us -[5021.02 --> 5021.26] Is -[5021.26 --> 5021.52] So -[5021.52 --> 5022.28] Strong -[5022.28 --> 5024.24] Maybe -[5024.24 --> 5024.48] What -[5024.48 --> 5024.62] We -[5024.62 --> 5024.82] All -[5024.82 --> 5025.20] Need -[5025.20 --> 5026.50] Is -[5026.50 --> 5026.72] What -[5026.72 --> 5026.94] John -[5026.94 --> 5027.14] Mark -[5027.14 --> 5027.48] Colmert -[5027.48 --> 5028.00] Calls -[5028.00 --> 5028.20] A -[5028.20 --> 5028.34] Little -[5028.34 --> 5028.52] Bit -[5028.52 --> 5028.62] Of -[5028.62 --> 5028.78] A -[5028.78 --> 5029.34] Monkish -[5029.34 --> 5030.08] Impulse -[5030.08 --> 5032.46] Making -[5032.46 --> 5032.48] Making -[5032.48 --> 5032.68] This -[5032.68 --> 5032.86] Same -[5032.86 --> 5033.14] Point -[5033.14 --> 5033.30] There -[5033.30 --> 5033.38] Is -[5033.38 --> 5033.56] A -[5033.56 --> 5034.30] Japanese -[5034.30 --> 5034.88] Canadian -[5034.88 --> 5035.38] Pastor -[5035.38 --> 5036.06] Whose -[5036.06 --> 5036.30] Name -[5036.30 --> 5036.48] Is -[5036.48 --> 5036.82] Ken -[5036.82 --> 5037.72] Shigematsu -[5037.72 --> 5038.80] And -[5038.80 --> 5038.92] He -[5038.92 --> 5039.18] Writes -[5039.18 --> 5039.32] A -[5039.32 --> 5039.62] Book -[5039.62 --> 5040.14] With -[5040.14 --> 5040.26] A -[5040.26 --> 5040.70] Subtitle -[5040.70 --> 5040.98] Called -[5040.98 --> 5041.24] How -[5041.24 --> 5041.44] An -[5041.44 --> 5041.82] Ancient -[5041.82 --> 5042.16] Rhythm -[5042.16 --> 5042.52] Helps -[5042.52 --> 5042.92] Busy -[5042.92 --> 5043.30] People -[5043.30 --> 5043.78] Enjoy -[5043.78 --> 5044.26] God -[5044.26 --> 5045.20] This -[5045.20 --> 5045.38] Book -[5045.38 --> 5045.52] Is -[5045.52 --> 5045.72] Kind -[5045.72 --> 5045.84] Of -[5045.84 --> 5045.96] A -[5045.96 --> 5046.50] Sustained -[5046.50 --> 5047.18] Reflection -[5047.18 --> 5048.06] On -[5048.06 --> 5048.50] Something -[5048.50 --> 5048.80] Or -[5048.80 --> 5048.96] How -[5048.96 --> 5049.32] Something -[5049.32 --> 5049.78] Like -[5049.78 --> 5050.00] The -[5050.00 --> 5050.34] Benedict -[5050.34 --> 5050.80] Rule -[5050.80 --> 5051.16] Which -[5051.16 --> 5051.30] Is -[5051.30 --> 5051.68] Itself -[5051.68 --> 5051.92] An -[5051.92 --> 5052.42] Ancient -[5052.42 --> 5053.10] Book -[5053.10 --> 5053.30] For -[5053.30 --> 5053.48] How -[5053.48 --> 5054.10] Monasteries -[5054.10 --> 5054.28] Should -[5054.28 --> 5054.58] Run -[5054.58 --> 5054.70] And -[5054.70 --> 5054.86] How -[5054.86 --> 5055.20] Monks -[5055.20 --> 5055.46] Should -[5055.46 --> 5055.78] Order -[5055.78 --> 5056.08] Their -[5056.08 --> 5056.46] Daily -[5056.46 --> 5056.98] Lives -[5056.98 --> 5057.78] He -[5057.78 --> 5058.22] Offers -[5058.22 --> 5058.48] That -[5058.48 --> 5058.70] As -[5058.70 --> 5059.00] Something -[5059.00 --> 5059.28] That -[5059.28 --> 5059.52] We -[5059.52 --> 5059.88] Should -[5059.88 --> 5060.38] Adopt -[5060.38 --> 5060.86] Again -[5060.86 --> 5061.28] In -[5061.28 --> 5061.54] This -[5061.54 --> 5062.08] Particular -[5062.08 --> 5062.52] Cultural -[5062.52 --> 5062.98] Moment -[5062.98 --> 5064.44] Now -[5064.44 --> 5064.58] He's -[5064.58 --> 5064.80] Not -[5064.80 --> 5065.12] Saying -[5065.12 --> 5065.34] That -[5065.34 --> 5065.62] Every -[5065.62 --> 5065.96] Christian -[5065.96 --> 5066.22] Should -[5066.22 --> 5066.50] Become -[5066.50 --> 5066.66] A -[5066.66 --> 5066.92] Monk -[5066.92 --> 5068.06] Okay -[5068.06 --> 5069.92] But -[5069.92 --> 5070.08] He -[5070.08 --> 5070.42] Does -[5070.42 --> 5071.06] Suggest -[5071.06 --> 5071.44] That -[5071.44 --> 5072.04] A -[5072.04 --> 5072.96] Monastic -[5072.96 --> 5074.26] Rule -[5074.26 --> 5074.44] Of -[5074.44 --> 5074.82] Life -[5074.82 --> 5075.16] Can -[5075.16 --> 5075.34] Help -[5075.34 --> 5075.52] Us -[5075.52 --> 5075.84] Learn -[5075.84 --> 5076.06] What -[5076.06 --> 5076.18] It -[5076.18 --> 5076.44] Means -[5076.44 --> 5076.68] To -[5076.68 --> 5077.04] Live -[5077.04 --> 5077.26] So -[5077.26 --> 5077.38] That -[5077.38 --> 5077.48] We -[5077.48 --> 5077.64] Are -[5077.64 --> 5078.04] Attuned -[5078.04 --> 5078.30] To -[5078.30 --> 5078.68] God -[5078.68 --> 5078.94] In -[5078.94 --> 5079.20] Our -[5079.20 --> 5079.72] Everything -[5079.72 --> 5080.84] A -[5080.84 --> 5081.10] Life -[5081.10 --> 5081.26] That -[5081.26 --> 5081.46] Does -[5081.46 --> 5081.74] More -[5081.74 --> 5081.92] Than -[5081.92 --> 5082.22] Pray -[5082.22 --> 5082.96] Sporadically -[5082.96 --> 5083.48] But -[5083.48 --> 5083.62] Is -[5083.62 --> 5084.04] Itself -[5084.04 --> 5084.28] A -[5086.08 --> 5086.28] Waken -[5086.28 --> 5086.50] To -[5086.50 --> 5086.78] God -[5086.78 --> 5086.98] So -[5086.98 --> 5087.12] That -[5087.12 --> 5087.28] The -[5087.28 --> 5087.70] World -[5087.70 --> 5088.24] Becomes -[5088.24 --> 5088.70] Our -[5088.70 --> 5089.82] Monastery -[5089.82 --> 5092.06] Here's -[5092.06 --> 5092.30] Why I -[5092.30 --> 5092.46] Like -[5092.46 --> 5092.66] This -[5092.66 --> 5092.98] Image -[5092.98 --> 5094.18] That -[5094.18 --> 5094.28] The -[5094.28 --> 5094.52] Life -[5094.52 --> 5094.64] Of -[5094.64 --> 5094.80] A -[5094.80 --> 5095.04] Monk -[5095.04 --> 5095.26] Is -[5095.26 --> 5096.04] Disciplined -[5096.04 --> 5096.74] And -[5096.74 --> 5097.14] Hard -[5097.14 --> 5099.24] It -[5099.24 --> 5099.40] Is -[5099.40 --> 5100.22] Austere -[5100.22 --> 5100.92] Yet -[5100.92 --> 5102.04] Deeply -[5102.04 --> 5103.00] Restful -[5103.00 --> 5105.56] Right -[5105.56 --> 5105.72] And -[5105.72 --> 5105.98] Just -[5105.98 --> 5106.30] Like -[5106.30 --> 5106.58] Growing -[5106.58 --> 5106.98] Fruit -[5106.98 --> 5107.16] On -[5107.16 --> 5107.30] A -[5107.30 --> 5107.62] Tree -[5107.62 --> 5108.24] Takes -[5108.24 --> 5108.72] Time -[5108.72 --> 5109.42] Producing -[5109.42 --> 5109.64] The -[5109.64 --> 5109.90] Fruit -[5109.90 --> 5110.16] Of -[5110.16 --> 5110.90] Repentance -[5110.90 --> 5111.60] Takes -[5111.60 --> 5112.34] Time -[5112.34 --> 5113.78] Right -[5113.78 --> 5114.00] This -[5114.00 --> 5114.38] Work -[5114.38 --> 5114.82] Takes -[5114.82 --> 5115.10] A -[5115.10 --> 5115.32] Lot -[5115.32 --> 5115.46] Of -[5115.46 --> 5115.80] Time -[5115.80 --> 5116.56] Following -[5116.56 --> 5117.10] Jesus -[5117.10 --> 5117.56] Is -[5117.56 --> 5117.82] Not -[5117.82 --> 5118.68] Convenient -[5118.68 --> 5119.10] Or -[5119.10 --> 5119.48] Quick -[5119.48 --> 5120.00] Or -[5120.00 --> 5120.42] Easy -[5120.42 --> 5122.46] There's -[5122.46 --> 5122.84] No -[5122.84 --> 5123.18] Way -[5123.18 --> 5123.40] To -[5123.40 --> 5123.56] Be -[5123.56 --> 5123.72] A -[5123.72 --> 5124.26] Disciple -[5124.26 --> 5124.46] Of -[5124.46 --> 5124.82] Jesus -[5124.82 --> 5125.52] Without -[5125.52 --> 5126.12] Him -[5126.12 --> 5127.06] Interfering -[5127.06 --> 5127.28] In -[5127.28 --> 5127.42] Your -[5127.42 --> 5127.78] Life -[5127.78 --> 5130.66] Right -[5130.66 --> 5131.14] Following -[5131.14 --> 5131.62] Jesus -[5131.62 --> 5132.24] Changes -[5132.24 --> 5132.82] How -[5132.82 --> 5132.98] You -[5132.98 --> 5133.26] Treat -[5133.26 --> 5133.42] Your -[5133.42 --> 5133.76] Brother -[5133.76 --> 5134.50] Or -[5134.50 --> 5134.66] Your -[5134.66 --> 5135.06] Sister -[5135.06 --> 5137.20] Following -[5137.20 --> 5137.58] Jesus -[5137.58 --> 5137.90] Means -[5137.90 --> 5138.44] Listening -[5138.44 --> 5138.76] To -[5138.76 --> 5139.18] God -[5139.18 --> 5140.20] Even -[5140.20 --> 5140.40] When -[5140.40 --> 5140.56] It's -[5140.56 --> 5140.86] Hard -[5140.86 --> 5141.80] It -[5141.80 --> 5141.96] Means -[5141.96 --> 5142.28] Listening -[5142.28 --> 5142.50] To -[5142.50 --> 5142.66] Mom -[5142.66 --> 5142.80] And -[5142.80 --> 5143.12] Dad -[5143.12 --> 5143.92] Even -[5143.92 --> 5144.46] When -[5144.46 --> 5145.46] They -[5145.46 --> 5145.72] Don't -[5145.72 --> 5146.04] Speak -[5146.04 --> 5146.36] Very -[5146.36 --> 5146.72] Well -[5146.72 --> 5147.20] To -[5147.20 --> 5147.42] You -[5147.42 --> 5149.26] In -[5149.26 --> 5149.40] A -[5149.40 --> 5149.78] Culture -[5149.78 --> 5150.08] That -[5150.08 --> 5150.84] Idolizes -[5150.84 --> 5151.74] Busyness -[5151.74 --> 5152.70] Choosing -[5152.70 --> 5153.24] Rest -[5153.24 --> 5153.94] Appears -[5153.94 --> 5154.20] As -[5154.20 --> 5155.12] Interference -[5155.12 --> 5155.64] For -[5155.64 --> 5155.86] What -[5155.86 --> 5156.28] Really -[5156.28 --> 5156.96] Matters -[5156.96 --> 5158.60] In -[5158.60 --> 5158.62] In -[5158.62 --> 5158.78] In -[5158.78 --> 5158.88] A -[5158.88 --> 5159.18] Time -[5159.18 --> 5159.36] And -[5159.36 --> 5159.64] Place -[5159.64 --> 5159.86] That -[5159.86 --> 5160.20] Tells -[5160.20 --> 5160.38] Us -[5160.38 --> 5160.58] To -[5160.58 --> 5161.32] Hoard -[5161.32 --> 5161.72] More -[5161.72 --> 5161.98] And -[5161.98 --> 5162.20] More -[5162.20 --> 5162.92] Things -[5162.92 --> 5163.76] Choosing -[5163.76 --> 5164.46] Sacrificial -[5164.46 --> 5164.94] Living -[5164.94 --> 5165.26] And -[5165.26 --> 5166.08] Generosity -[5166.08 --> 5167.26] Appears -[5167.26 --> 5168.50] Counterproductive -[5168.50 --> 5170.28] Right -[5170.28 --> 5170.46] When -[5170.46 --> 5171.04] Instagram -[5171.04 --> 5171.40] And -[5171.40 --> 5171.72] TikTok -[5171.72 --> 5172.20] Tell -[5172.20 --> 5172.38] You -[5172.38 --> 5172.58] To -[5172.58 --> 5173.02] Post -[5173.02 --> 5173.46] Only -[5173.46 --> 5173.76] Your -[5173.76 --> 5174.14] Best -[5174.14 --> 5174.66] Self -[5174.66 --> 5175.46] Choosing -[5175.46 --> 5176.28] Vulnerability -[5176.28 --> 5176.70] And -[5176.70 --> 5177.52] Confession -[5177.52 --> 5178.32] Might -[5178.32 --> 5178.68] Hurt -[5178.68 --> 5178.90] Your -[5178.90 --> 5179.32] Social -[5179.32 --> 5179.88] Standing -[5179.88 --> 5183.00] Producing -[5183.00 --> 5183.56] Fruits -[5183.56 --> 5184.72] In -[5184.72 --> 5185.12] Keeping -[5185.12 --> 5185.58] With -[5185.58 --> 5186.38] Repentance -[5186.38 --> 5187.22] Requires -[5187.22 --> 5187.48] A -[5187.48 --> 5187.96] Dying -[5187.96 --> 5188.66] To -[5188.66 --> 5189.16] Self -[5189.16 --> 5191.14] That -[5191.14 --> 5191.24] Is -[5191.24 --> 5191.68] Exactly -[5191.68 --> 5191.94] What -[5191.94 --> 5192.20] Jesus -[5192.20 --> 5192.54] Said -[5192.54 --> 5192.70] Would -[5192.70 --> 5192.84] Be -[5192.84 --> 5193.62] Necessary -[5193.62 --> 5194.06] And -[5194.06 --> 5194.22] Would -[5194.22 --> 5194.64] Happen -[5194.64 --> 5194.88] If -[5194.88 --> 5195.04] We -[5195.04 --> 5195.38] Chose -[5195.38 --> 5195.58] To -[5195.58 --> 5195.84] Take -[5195.84 --> 5196.02] Up -[5196.02 --> 5196.28] Our -[5196.28 --> 5196.78] Cross -[5196.78 --> 5197.20] And -[5197.20 --> 5197.54] Follow -[5197.54 --> 5197.90] After -[5197.90 --> 5198.16] Him -[5198.16 --> 5200.52] But -[5200.52 --> 5200.96] Remember -[5200.96 --> 5202.82] Behold -[5202.82 --> 5203.54] Your -[5203.54 --> 5203.90] King -[5203.90 --> 5205.50] Right -[5205.50 --> 5205.86] Remember -[5205.86 --> 5206.12] That -[5206.12 --> 5206.52] Jesus -[5206.52 --> 5207.38] Endured -[5207.38 --> 5207.86] His -[5207.86 --> 5208.84] Testing -[5208.84 --> 5209.92] He -[5209.92 --> 5210.90] Succeeded -[5210.90 --> 5211.14] Where -[5211.14 --> 5211.52] We -[5211.52 --> 5212.26] Fail -[5212.26 --> 5213.42] And -[5213.42 --> 5213.64] He -[5213.64 --> 5214.08] Has -[5214.08 --> 5214.50] In -[5214.50 --> 5214.82] Fact -[5214.82 --> 5215.38] Been -[5215.38 --> 5215.66] Given -[5215.66 --> 5215.96] All -[5215.96 --> 5216.48] Authority -[5216.48 --> 5216.84] In -[5216.84 --> 5217.12] Heaven -[5217.12 --> 5217.60] And -[5217.60 --> 5217.80] On -[5217.80 --> 5217.98] Earth -[5217.98 --> 5218.20] He -[5218.20 --> 5218.66] Has -[5218.66 --> 5218.96] In -[5218.96 --> 5219.24] Fact -[5219.24 --> 5220.30] Inherited -[5220.30 --> 5220.76] The -[5220.76 --> 5221.22] Nations -[5221.22 --> 5222.30] And -[5222.30 --> 5222.46] So -[5222.46 --> 5222.80] Even -[5222.80 --> 5223.10] Though -[5223.10 --> 5223.38] It's -[5223.38 --> 5223.98] Hard -[5223.98 --> 5224.68] What -[5224.68 --> 5225.18] Jesus -[5225.18 --> 5225.60] Can -[5225.60 --> 5225.98] Give -[5225.98 --> 5226.24] You -[5226.24 --> 5226.60] Is -[5226.60 --> 5226.98] Worth -[5226.98 --> 5227.44] Far -[5227.44 --> 5228.00] More -[5228.00 --> 5228.52] Than -[5228.52 --> 5229.14] Anything -[5229.14 --> 5229.54] You -[5229.54 --> 5229.72] Are -[5229.72 --> 5229.94] Called -[5229.94 --> 5230.10] To -[5230.10 --> 5230.28] Give -[5230.28 --> 5230.54] Up -[5230.54 --> 5232.68] God -[5232.68 --> 5233.02] That's -[5233.02 --> 5233.04] That's -[5233.04 --> 5233.06] That's -[5233.06 --> 5234.12] That's -[5234.12 --> 5235.70] The promise -[5235.70 --> 5236.96] Of -[5236.96 --> 5237.24] Being -[5237.24 --> 5237.94] Monkish -[5237.94 --> 5238.48] In -[5238.48 --> 5238.60] A -[5238.60 --> 5238.90] Messy -[5238.90 --> 5239.18] World -[5239.18 --> 5241.62] You -[5241.62 --> 5241.78] Were -[5241.78 --> 5242.02] Not -[5242.02 --> 5242.38] Made -[5242.38 --> 5242.76] To -[5242.76 --> 5243.46] Hustle -[5243.46 --> 5243.78] For -[5243.78 --> 5243.98] Your -[5243.98 --> 5244.74] Identity -[5244.74 --> 5247.10] Idols -[5247.10 --> 5247.94] Make -[5247.94 --> 5248.10] You -[5248.10 --> 5248.40] Hustle -[5248.40 --> 5248.60] For -[5248.60 --> 5248.76] A -[5248.76 --> 5248.98] Name -[5248.98 --> 5250.84] In -[5250.84 --> 5251.52] Baptism -[5251.52 --> 5252.52] God -[5252.52 --> 5252.84] Gives -[5252.84 --> 5253.04] You -[5253.04 --> 5253.36] One -[5253.36 --> 5255.38] Behold -[5255.38 --> 5255.66] Your -[5255.66 --> 5256.08] King -[5256.08 --> 5257.36] Follow -[5257.36 --> 5257.76] Him -[5257.76 --> 5258.40] Trust -[5258.40 --> 5258.62] In -[5258.62 --> 5258.94] Him -[5258.94 --> 5260.34] Profess -[5260.34 --> 5261.44] Him -[5261.44 --> 5263.64] Make -[5263.64 --> 5264.00] Jesus -[5264.00 --> 5264.28] More -[5264.28 --> 5264.42] Than -[5264.42 --> 5264.56] A -[5264.56 --> 5264.88] Hobby -[5264.88 --> 5265.90] Make -[5265.90 --> 5266.02] Him -[5266.02 --> 5266.14] Your -[5266.14 --> 5266.54] Master -[5266.54 --> 5267.76] Because -[5267.76 --> 5267.96] Of -[5267.96 --> 5268.38] Him -[5268.38 --> 5269.48] Clothed -[5269.48 --> 5269.74] In -[5269.74 --> 5270.30] Him -[5270.30 --> 5271.10] Hear -[5271.10 --> 5271.78] The Father -[5271.78 --> 5272.38] Say -[5272.38 --> 5273.02] You -[5273.02 --> 5273.30] Are -[5273.30 --> 5273.54] My -[5273.54 --> 5274.06] Son -[5274.06 --> 5274.80] You -[5274.80 --> 5275.24] Are -[5275.24 --> 5275.64] My -[5275.64 --> 5276.26] Daughter -[5276.26 --> 5278.70] And -[5278.70 --> 5278.92] Then -[5278.92 --> 5280.18] Let's -[5280.18 --> 5280.50] Go -[5280.50 --> 5281.64] Today -[5281.64 --> 5282.48] And -[5282.48 --> 5282.98] Live -[5282.98 --> 5283.78] As -[5283.78 --> 5284.26] Sons -[5284.26 --> 5284.92] And -[5284.92 --> 5285.44] Daughters -[5285.44 --> 5286.28] Of -[5286.28 --> 5286.40] The -[5286.40 --> 5286.66] King -[5286.66 --> 5287.78] Amen -[5287.78 --> 5289.12] Amen -[5289.12 --> 5290.28] Let's -[5290.28 --> 5290.48] Pray -[5290.48 --> 5299.46] Lord -[5299.46 --> 5299.80] God -[5299.80 --> 5302.34] Revive -[5302.34 --> 5302.82] Our -[5302.82 --> 5303.52] Hearts -[5303.52 --> 5304.48] And -[5304.48 --> 5305.20] Minds -[5305.20 --> 5307.46] Revive -[5307.46 --> 5307.76] Our -[5307.76 --> 5308.78] Imaginations -[5308.78 --> 5309.90] Unstop -[5309.90 --> 5310.34] Our -[5310.34 --> 5310.94] Ears -[5310.94 --> 5311.42] So -[5311.42 --> 5311.54] That -[5311.54 --> 5311.68] We -[5311.68 --> 5311.94] Might -[5311.94 --> 5312.26] Hear -[5312.26 --> 5312.58] You -[5312.58 --> 5313.10] Say -[5313.10 --> 5313.72] You -[5313.72 --> 5313.98] Are -[5313.98 --> 5314.20] My -[5314.20 --> 5314.70] Son -[5314.70 --> 5315.24] You -[5315.24 --> 5315.60] Are -[5315.60 --> 5315.92] My -[5315.92 --> 5316.48] Daughter -[5316.48 --> 5317.18] Whom -[5317.18 --> 5317.58] I -[5317.58 --> 5318.12] Love -[5318.12 --> 5321.02] Open -[5321.02 --> 5321.40] The -[5321.40 --> 5321.80] Eyes -[5321.80 --> 5321.96] Of -[5321.96 --> 5322.14] Our -[5322.14 --> 5322.56] Heart -[5322.56 --> 5324.16] So -[5324.16 --> 5324.34] That -[5324.34 --> 5324.64] We -[5324.64 --> 5325.04] Might -[5325.04 --> 5325.56] See -[5325.56 --> 5326.16] You -[5326.16 --> 5326.88] Jesus -[5326.88 --> 5327.78] So -[5327.78 --> 5327.94] That -[5327.94 --> 5328.24] We -[5328.24 --> 5328.86] Might -[5328.86 --> 5329.54] Behold -[5329.54 --> 5330.44] Our -[5330.44 --> 5331.30] King -[5331.30 --> 5332.98] In -[5332.98 --> 5333.22] Your -[5333.22 --> 5333.46] Name -[5333.46 --> 5333.64] We -[5333.64 --> 5333.94] Pray -[5333.94 --> 5335.04] Amen -[5335.04 --> 5354.26] Hallelujah -[5356.42 --> 5356.76] Hallelujah -[5356.76 --> 5358.70] Thind the glory -[5358.70 --> 5359.56] Hallelujah -[5359.56 --> 5361.48] Amen -[5362.10 --> 5362.62] Hallelujah -[5362.62 --> 5364.58] Thind the glory -[5364.58 --> 5367.58] revive us again -[5367.58 --> 5370.70] we praise thee -[5370.70 --> 5372.56] O God for the -[5372.56 --> 5374.52] Son of thy love -[5374.52 --> 5376.58] for Jesus who -[5376.58 --> 5378.56] died and has now -[5378.56 --> 5380.02] gone above -[5380.02 --> 5383.04] hallelujah thine the glory -[5383.04 --> 5384.34] hallelujah -[5384.34 --> 5385.62] amen -[5385.62 --> 5388.68] hallelujah thine the glory -[5388.68 --> 5390.42] revive us -[5390.42 --> 5391.90] again -[5391.90 --> 5394.62] we praise thee -[5394.62 --> 5396.48] O God for the -[5396.48 --> 5398.42] spirit of light -[5398.42 --> 5400.26] who has shown us -[5400.26 --> 5402.86] our Savior and scattered -[5402.86 --> 5404.04] our night -[5404.04 --> 5406.98] hallelujah thine the glory -[5406.98 --> 5408.38] hallelujah -[5408.38 --> 5409.66] amen -[5409.66 --> 5412.72] hallelujah thine the glory -[5412.72 --> 5414.50] revive us -[5414.50 --> 5416.02] again -[5416.02 --> 5418.50] all glory -[5418.50 --> 5420.70] and praise to the -[5420.70 --> 5422.62] Lamb that was slain -[5422.62 --> 5423.98] who was born -[5423.98 --> 5425.42] all our sins -[5425.42 --> 5426.82] and does cleanse -[5426.82 --> 5428.22] every stain -[5428.22 --> 5429.74] hallelujah -[5429.74 --> 5431.22] thine the glory -[5431.22 --> 5432.58] hallelujah -[5432.58 --> 5433.88] amen -[5433.88 --> 5435.46] hallelujah -[5435.46 --> 5436.92] thine the glory -[5436.92 --> 5438.74] revive us -[5438.74 --> 5440.28] again -[5440.28 --> 5443.06] revive us -[5443.06 --> 5444.10] again -[5444.10 --> 5445.42] fill each heart -[5445.42 --> 5446.92] with thy love -[5446.92 --> 5448.24] may soul -[5448.24 --> 5448.26] may soul -[5448.26 --> 5450.04] be rekindled -[5450.04 --> 5450.94] with fire -[5450.94 --> 5452.40] from above -[5452.40 --> 5454.00] hallelujah -[5454.00 --> 5455.40] thine the glory -[5455.40 --> 5456.80] hallelujah -[5456.80 --> 5458.10] amen -[5458.10 --> 5459.66] hallelujah -[5459.66 --> 5461.10] thine the glory -[5461.10 --> 5462.90] revive us -[5462.90 --> 5463.84] again -[5463.84 --> 5465.46] hallelujah -[5465.46 --> 5466.98] thine the glory -[5466.98 --> 5468.38] hallelujah -[5468.38 --> 5469.74] amen -[5469.74 --> 5471.24] hallelujah -[5471.24 --> 5472.76] thine the glory -[5472.76 --> 5474.64] revive us -[5474.64 --> 5475.40] again -[5475.40 --> 5476.72] amen -[5476.72 --> 5488.98] sent out in the power -[5488.98 --> 5490.58] of jesus name -[5490.58 --> 5491.68] sent out renewed -[5491.68 --> 5492.96] by the spirit -[5492.96 --> 5494.28] sent out commission -[5494.28 --> 5495.64] to proclaim his kingdom -[5495.64 --> 5496.06] come -[5496.06 --> 5497.34] and his kingdom coming -[5497.34 --> 5498.94] know that god himself -[5498.94 --> 5499.86] goes -[5499.86 --> 5500.68] with you -[5500.68 --> 5502.60] and so receive his blessing -[5502.60 --> 5503.76] for the days -[5503.76 --> 5504.50] week -[5504.50 --> 5505.28] and journey -[5505.28 --> 5505.80] ahead -[5505.80 --> 5509.56] god go before you -[5509.56 --> 5510.42] to lead you -[5510.42 --> 5512.24] god go behind you -[5512.24 --> 5513.16] to protect you -[5513.16 --> 5514.94] god go beneath you -[5514.94 --> 5515.96] to support you -[5515.96 --> 5517.70] and god go beside you -[5517.70 --> 5518.78] to befriend you -[5518.78 --> 5519.94] do not -[5519.94 --> 5521.36] be afraid -[5521.36 --> 5523.22] let the blessing of god -[5523.22 --> 5524.18] come upon you today -[5524.18 --> 5525.82] do not be afraid -[5525.82 --> 5526.68] but go -[5526.68 --> 5528.18] in peace -[5528.18 --> 5529.18] to love -[5529.18 --> 5530.24] and serve -[5530.24 --> 5531.14] the lord -[5531.14 --> 5532.60] amen -[5532.60 --> 5550.48] i know -[5550.48 --> 5552.74] he rescued my soul -[5552.74 --> 5555.92] his blood has covered my sin -[5555.92 --> 5556.92] i believe -[5556.92 --> 5559.88] i believe -[5559.88 --> 5560.88] i believe -[5560.88 --> 5565.46] my shame -[5565.46 --> 5567.00] is taken away -[5567.00 --> 5569.08] my pain -[5569.08 --> 5569.58] is healed -[5569.58 --> 5570.40] in his name -[5570.40 --> 5571.48] i believe -[5571.48 --> 5574.80] i believe -[5574.80 --> 5580.62] i'll raise the banner -[5580.62 --> 5585.18] my lord has conquered the grave -[5585.18 --> 5588.38] my redeemer lives -[5588.38 --> 5592.14] my redeemer lives -[5592.14 --> 5595.66] my redeemer lives -[5595.66 --> 5600.20] my redeemer lives -[5600.20 --> 5603.30] i know -[5603.30 --> 5605.62] he rescued my soul -[5605.62 --> 5608.66] my blood has covered my sin -[5608.66 --> 5609.74] i believe -[5609.74 --> 5613.04] i believe -[5613.04 --> 5617.00] my shame -[5617.00 --> 5618.12] my shame -[5618.12 --> 5619.70] is taken away -[5619.70 --> 5621.78] my pain -[5621.78 --> 5622.24] is healed -[5622.24 --> 5623.14] in his name -[5623.14 --> 5624.04] i believe -[5624.04 --> 5626.04] i believe -[5626.04 --> 5628.04] i believe -[5628.04 --> 5633.36] i'll raise the banner -[5633.36 --> 5637.90] my lord has conquered the grave -[5637.90 --> 5641.12] my redeemer lives -[5641.12 --> 5644.90] my redeemer lives -[5644.90 --> 5648.28] my redeemer lives -[5648.28 --> 5652.58] my redeemer lives -[5652.58 --> 5653.90] you -[5653.90 --> 5669.96] lift my burdens -[5669.96 --> 5674.12] i'll rise with you -[5674.12 --> 5677.88] i'm dancing on this mountain top -[5677.88 --> 5680.96] to see your kingdom come -[5680.96 --> 5686.62] my redeemer lives -[5686.62 --> 5687.64] my redeemer lives -[5690.92 --> 5692.98] my redeemer lives -[5692.98 --> 5696.70] my redeemer lives -[5696.70 --> 5698.82] my redeemer lives -[5698.82 --> 5701.00] my redeemer lives -[5701.00 --> 5706.68] my redeemer lives -[5706.68 --> 5708.92] my -[5736.68 --> 5738.68] my -[5766.68 --> 5767.60] my -[5767.60 --> 5768.80] transform -[5768.80 --> 5770.80] in -[5770.80 --> 5771.26] rored -[5771.26 --> 5774.94] con -[5774.94 --> 5780.76] mand -[5780.82 --> 5782.92] tim -[5782.92 --> 5785.64] be -[5785.64 --> 5787.64] mulher -[5787.64 --> 5790.30] 1 -[5790.30 --> 5794.74] cope -[5794.74 --> 5824.72] Thank you. -[5824.74 --> 5854.72] Thank you. -[5854.74 --> 5884.72] Thank you. -[5884.74 --> 5914.72] Thank you. -[5914.74 --> 5944.72] Thank you. -[5944.74 --> 5974.72] Thank you. -[5974.74 --> 6004.72] Thank you. -[6004.74 --> 6034.72] Thank you. -[6034.74 --> 6064.72] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, June 1, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, June 1, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 25997e537e8e2a8162662068f20c7352917c6313..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, June 1, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,96 +0,0 @@ -• Welcome to church by Pastor Chris -• Announcements for the day, including Ascension Day service, pastor's class, youth coffee, and Heidelberg Catechism Adult Education Reading Group -• Monthly worship service at Sunridge Gardens on Saturday -• Invitation to receive God's greeting and welcome others into worship -• Worship songs about God's greatness -• Praise for Jesus as the only one who can sing and be worthy of all praise -• Lyrics emphasizing God's uniqueness, love, and protection -• Prayer of encouragement and gratitude for being a child of God -• Reflection on God's lavish love and rescue -• Brokenness and healing through Jesus -• Worshiping God with songs of heaven -• Church revival and restoration -• Offering and donations for the church and local organizations (baby bottle ministry and Safe Church) -• Introduction to Allison, a deacon at Langley Emanuel church -• Introduction to an organization at the speaker's church -• Prayer for Jesus to be the center and source of life -• Discussion of the importance of coaches or mentors in people's lives -• Mock swimming lesson where the speaker asks for tips on becoming a good swimmer -• Explanation that Children's Worship Time will discuss the theme of coaches and mentors in the lives of followers -• Discussion of Children's Worship Time and the upcoming leadership selection process -• Drawing lots for deacon positions, with Warren Verhoof and Pete Birkenpass selected -• Drawing lots for Elder position, with Jesus Hernandez, Pim Schoen, and Frank Welfing selected -• Prayers of thanksgiving and discernment for the newly selected leaders -• Announcements of upcoming events, including a short-term mission trip to the Philippines and a wedding celebration -• Prayer for several individuals in need, including those on the mission trip and one who has completed cancer treatment -• Worship and prayer for forgiveness -• Prayer for healing and strength in a broken world -• Specific prayers for individuals with health issues (Tessa, Doug, Tanya, Joan) -• Prayers for a short-term mission trip to the Philippines -• Blessing on a newlywed couple (Ethan and Anna) -• Prayers for the church and its ministries -• Prayers for government leaders and guidance -• Prayer for a pastor's sermon to be effective and move hearts -• Story of an elderly woman remembering her piano skills after being reminded by her granddaughter -• Reminder to the Thessalonian church about their identity and God's sure calling -• Importance of remembering one's God-given identity in standing firm and living boldly -• Confusion and uncertainty experienced by the Thessalonian church regarding Jesus' second coming -• Paul's reminder that the apocalypse or Christ's revelation would not come quietly, and certain things need to happen before Christ's return -• The significance of knowing one's true identity as a Christian in times of confusion and uncertainty -• The speaker recounts a personal experience of being late to an exam and getting to retake it after explaining their mistake to the education committee -• Confusion can happen in various aspects of life, including understanding one's spiritual identity as a Christian -• Long-time Christians may become apathetic and forget about Christ's significance in their lives -• The speaker warns against seeking certainty and truth in wrong places, such as social media or worldly expectations -• People often believe lies that are disguised as virtues, leading to confusion and deception -• The speaker discusses how people seek certainties in life but are often led to lies and further confusion. -• Education, relationships, identity, comfort, and other factors are not guarantees of certainty. -• Paul's teachings in the Thessalonian church emphasize clarity over certainty. -• Clarity is achieved through encouragement and gratitude for God's work, rather than human achievements. -• The speaker contrasts Paul's approach with the church's desire for specific details about Christ's return. -• The transforming work of Christ is seen as essential to understanding one's identity and combating confusion. -• The Antichrist and Satan cannot combat the truth of Jesus -• Salvation is not a subjective experience but an objective position given by God as a gift -• Our positional standing before God has been clearly decided by Jesus Christ -• Clarity and assurance come from knowing our identities are rooted in Christ -• We belong to Him and He chose us -• Salvation comes through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and belief in the truth -• Sin no longer rules our lives, and we are bound to Christ instead -• Definition and explanation of definitive sanctification -• Comparison with progressive sanctification -• Analogy of being freed from prison to demonstrate positional change through Christ -• Discussion of freedom from sin and death -• Explanation that this freedom is due to what Jesus has done, including living a perfect life, dying for our sins, and rising again -• Emphasis on liberation and release from captivity, with reference to belonging to Jesus Christ -• The importance of clarity in faith and life -• Knowing the eternal life and salvation through Christ -• Suffering and grief with hope for healing or being with Christ -• Clarifying one's understanding when praying for others who don't know God -• Rejoicing in victories and boasting in the Lord's work -• Mourning and grieving, but doing so with clarity and knowing God has them -• The limitations of human knowledge about God's plans and timing -• Paul's emphasis on what truly matters: belonging to God and standing secure in Christ. -• Reminders of God's love and promises are necessary for believers -• Life can fog up the clarity of one's faith, leading to confusion and doubt -• The gospel needs to be held up in hearts and questioned regularly -• Clarity of heart is crucial for seeing Jesus more clearly -• Living a life that reflects the truth of God's love requires boldness, kindness, and courage -• True security and freedom come from understanding one's identity in Christ -• Growing in faith and going out with purpose -• Knowing one's identity and belonging to God -• Finding clarity and peace in uncertainty and chaos -• Recognizing the need for control and answers, but trusting in God's plan -• Being set free to stand firm and live boldly -• Receiving encouragement and hope from God -• Praying for clarity, conviction, and a deeper understanding of God's love and grace -• Prayer and devotion to God -• Sense of belonging to God and being free from sin -• Trust in God's preservation and care -• Confidence in eternal life through Christ -• Assurance of guidance through the Holy Spirit -• Invitation for prayer and worship -• Priestly blessing and praise to God -• Christian hymn or song lyrics -• Theme of redemption and salvation through Jesus Christ -• Praise and worship to God, with emphasis on the glory and greatness of His works -• Call to come to the Father through Jesus the Son -• Expression of gratitude and thanksgiving to God for His promises and blessings \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, June 1, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, June 1, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 9c85af0699c4473785a41691bf0dbbf6cbfe1687..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, June 1, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1517 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 92.00] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 122.00] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 152.00] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 182.00] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 220.00] Thank you. -[220.00 --> 222.00] Thank you. -[222.00 --> 222.70] Good morning. -[223.30 --> 224.54] That was my fault, Nico. -[224.80 --> 225.84] I didn't turn it on. -[227.42 --> 230.78] Good morning, and welcome to church. -[230.88 --> 234.00] Special welcome if you are a guest with us this morning. -[234.00 --> 235.18] My name is Chris. -[235.38 --> 241.24] I'm one of the pastors here, and it's my privilege to kick off our worship together. -[241.92 --> 244.70] Before we begin, we've got a couple announcements to make. -[245.52 --> 252.10] And so first, I just want to thank those people who came out on Thursday night to our Ascension Day service. -[252.10 --> 262.34] We had a special service here on Thursday, and it was a wonderful time and a beautiful time together in our worship as we entered into the presence of Christ our King. -[262.34 --> 268.48] Also, for announcements, I'm going to rattle off a couple things that are happening today. -[268.48 --> 281.70] And so immediately or shortly after our worship this morning, pastor's class is going to happen with me, and that's for people who are interested in doing profession of faith. -[281.70 --> 297.28] Generally, this is kind of the targeted audience here is the people who have made it through our youth program in the last little while, young adults as well, who want to do profession of faith to stand up and say, -[297.40 --> 302.26] yes, this I believe, and I want to believe it in your presence together. -[303.28 --> 304.68] And so we have a class for that. -[304.74 --> 308.92] That's after service today, about 15, 20 minutes by the time we finish. -[308.92 --> 312.58] So grab a coffee, hang out with some people, and then we'll meet in the multi-purpose room. -[313.52 --> 314.62] And we'll meet for about an hour. -[315.28 --> 320.84] Also after service today is youth coffee for the youth program, and that's happening at the Verhoofs house. -[321.04 --> 321.92] And so Verhoofs, wave. -[322.66 --> 323.18] There you go. -[323.28 --> 326.52] If you need to know how to get to their house, you can talk to them or Pastor Kevin. -[326.66 --> 328.38] He'll gladly give you that information. -[329.76 --> 337.06] And then tonight at 7 p.m., we have the Heidelberg Catechism Adult Education Reading Group. -[337.06 --> 338.94] And so you've been participating in that. -[339.00 --> 344.76] If you've been participating in that, we have our final reading group tonight at 7 p.m., -[344.76 --> 349.74] where we'll finish the catechism together and get through in our conversations. -[350.58 --> 356.58] And then lastly, next week Saturday, or next weekend, rather, on Saturday, -[357.44 --> 362.38] we will be having our monthly worship service at Sunridge Gardens. -[362.38 --> 365.86] And so that begins at 2 p.m. at Sunridge Gardens. -[366.28 --> 372.62] Some residents who are members here join us, but then a number of others who live up at Sunridge Gardens -[372.62 --> 377.00] come down and worship with us for about an hour or so, and then we hang out together after that. -[377.04 --> 380.24] And so you're invited to join and participate in that with us. -[381.32 --> 383.18] That's it for my announcements. -[384.00 --> 385.96] I'm going to invite you, as you're able to stand, -[386.40 --> 389.08] that we might be welcomed in the presence of God. -[389.08 --> 391.70] We mark that by receiving his greeting. -[392.60 --> 395.50] And then after receiving the greeting of God, -[395.58 --> 400.22] I invite you to turn to those around you and to welcome them into worship as well. -[400.32 --> 401.62] You can do that by saying, -[401.72 --> 403.84] The Lord be with you, or the peace of Christ be with you, -[404.16 --> 407.46] shaking a hand, nodding a head, however you are moved. -[407.66 --> 412.98] Let's receive the greeting of God and be welcomed into this time of worship together. -[412.98 --> 419.52] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, -[419.80 --> 422.66] from the Lord Jesus Christ, Son, and our Savior, -[423.20 --> 425.68] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[426.48 --> 426.76] Amen. -[442.98 --> 472.96] Let the words of Ruth, -[472.96 --> 476.88] Revelation, help us to focus our hearts and minds -[476.88 --> 482.50] on the one who sits on the throne and the Lamb who was slain. -[484.68 --> 487.08] Revelation 5, verse 11 to 13. -[487.32 --> 490.78] Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels -[490.78 --> 496.62] numbering thousands upon thousands and ten thousand times ten thousand. -[496.62 --> 502.16] They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. -[502.58 --> 504.82] In a loud voice they were saying, -[505.46 --> 508.58] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, -[508.96 --> 513.26] to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength -[513.26 --> 516.28] and honor and glory and praise. -[517.12 --> 520.26] Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth -[520.26 --> 522.74] and under the earth and on the sea -[522.74 --> 524.96] and all that is in them saying, -[525.96 --> 527.84] To him who sits on the throne -[527.84 --> 530.66] and to the Lamb be praise -[530.66 --> 533.42] and honor and glory and power -[533.42 --> 535.38] forever and ever. -[535.38 --> 551.12] We stand and lift up our hands -[551.12 --> 555.60] for the joy of the Lord is our strength. -[557.60 --> 561.66] We bow down and worship him now. -[562.04 --> 565.50] How great, how awesome is he. -[566.04 --> 568.58] And together we sing. -[571.58 --> 574.12] Everyone sing. -[574.12 --> 580.56] Holy is the Lord God Almighty -[580.56 --> 585.60] The earth is filled with his glory -[585.60 --> 590.48] Holy is the Lord God Almighty -[590.48 --> 595.50] The earth is filled with his glory -[595.50 --> 600.38] The earth is filled with his glory -[600.38 --> 605.92] We stand and lift up our hands -[605.92 --> 610.70] For the joy of the Lord is our strength -[610.70 --> 616.28] We bow down and worship him now -[616.28 --> 620.00] How great, how awesome is he. -[620.00 --> 623.16] And together we sing. -[625.72 --> 628.20] Everyone sing. -[630.38 --> 634.76] Holy is the Lord God Almighty -[634.76 --> 639.76] The earth is filled with his glory -[639.76 --> 644.70] Holy is the Lord God Almighty -[644.70 --> 649.70] The earth is filled with his glory -[649.70 --> 654.48] The earth is filled with his glory -[654.48 --> 657.86] It's rising up -[657.86 --> 658.86] It's rising up -[658.86 --> 659.86] All around -[659.86 --> 664.86] It's the apple of the Lord's renown -[664.86 --> 666.86] It's rising up -[666.86 --> 667.86] It's rising up -[667.86 --> 668.86] All around -[668.86 --> 674.86] It's the apple of the Lord's renown -[674.86 --> 678.86] Together we sing -[678.86 --> 697.24] Everyone sing -[697.24 --> 704.14] The earth is filled with His glory. -[704.14 --> 711.68] The earth is filled with His glory. -[727.24 --> 746.44] Worthy of every song we could ever sing -[746.44 --> 753.06] Worthy of all the praise you could ever give -[753.06 --> 759.18] Worthy of every breath we could ever give -[759.18 --> 761.76] We live for you -[761.76 --> 772.66] Jesus, the name above every other name -[772.66 --> 779.18] Jesus, the only one who could ever sing -[779.18 --> 785.30] Worthy of every breath we could ever give -[785.30 --> 787.30] We live for you -[787.30 --> 791.18] We live for you -[791.18 --> 797.30] Holy, there is no one like you -[797.30 --> 800.56] There is none beside you -[800.56 --> 804.94] Open up my eyes in wonder -[804.94 --> 809.88] Show me who you are and fill me -[809.88 --> 812.56] With your heart and lead me -[813.12 --> 818.12] In your love to those around me -[818.12 --> 836.24] Jesus, the name above every other name -[836.24 --> 842.44] Jesus, the only one who could ever sing -[842.44 --> 848.56] Worthy of every breath we could ever give -[848.56 --> 850.56] We live for you -[850.56 --> 854.56] We live for you -[854.56 --> 860.56] Holy, there is no one like you -[860.56 --> 863.68] There is none beside you -[863.68 --> 868.06] Open up my eyes in wonder -[868.06 --> 872.80] Show me who you are and fill me -[872.80 --> 875.90] With your heart and lead me -[875.90 --> 880.68] In your love to those around me -[880.68 --> 908.36] I will build my life -[908.36 --> 911.48] Upon your love -[911.48 --> 916.36] It is a firm foundation -[916.36 --> 920.48] I will put my trust -[920.48 --> 923.48] In you alone -[923.48 --> 928.48] And I will not be shaken -[928.48 --> 932.52] I will build my life -[932.52 --> 935.56] Upon your love -[935.56 --> 936.56] In your love -[936.56 --> 937.56] In your love -[937.56 --> 938.56] In your love -[938.56 --> 939.56] In your love -[939.56 --> 940.56] In your love -[940.56 --> 942.56] I will put my trust -[942.56 --> 944.56] In your love -[944.56 --> 945.56] In your love -[945.56 --> 946.56] In your love -[946.56 --> 949.56] And I will not be shaken -[949.56 --> 954.56] Holy, there is no one like you -[954.56 --> 955.56] There is none beside you -[955.56 --> 957.56] There is none beside you -[957.56 --> 959.56] Open up my eyes in wonder -[959.56 --> 963.56] Open up my eyes in wonder -[963.56 --> 965.56] Show me who you are -[965.56 --> 966.56] And fill me with your heart -[966.56 --> 967.56] And lead me in your love -[967.56 --> 968.56] In your love -[968.56 --> 969.56] In your love -[969.56 --> 970.56] In your love -[970.56 --> 972.56] In your love -[972.56 --> 973.56] In your love -[973.56 --> 974.56] In your love -[974.56 --> 975.56] In your love -[975.56 --> 976.56] In your love -[976.56 --> 986.56] Please join me in our prayer of encouragement -[986.56 --> 991.56] Father -[991.56 --> 992.56] Father -[992.56 --> 994.56] It is a wonder -[994.56 --> 995.56] What you have made -[995.56 --> 996.56] Of me -[996.56 --> 997.56] In Jesus -[997.56 --> 999.56] It is the hope -[999.56 --> 1000.56] I cling to today -[1000.56 --> 1002.56] The comfort -[1002.56 --> 1004.56] That satisfies my heart -[1004.56 --> 1007.56] I am a dearly loved -[1007.56 --> 1008.56] Child of God -[1008.56 --> 1011.56] I am not my own -[1011.56 --> 1012.56] But belong to Jesus Christ -[1012.56 --> 1014.56] Body and soul -[1014.56 --> 1016.56] In life and in death -[1016.56 --> 1017.56] I am rescued -[1017.56 --> 1018.56] At great cost -[1018.56 --> 1019.56] I am rescued -[1019.56 --> 1020.56] At great cost -[1020.56 --> 1022.56] Protected and provided for -[1022.56 --> 1024.56] Guarded and guided -[1024.56 --> 1025.56] How great -[1025.56 --> 1027.56] Is your lavish love -[1027.56 --> 1028.56] Amen -[1046.56 --> 1050.56] Men of faith -[1050.56 --> 1052.56] Rise up and sing -[1052.56 --> 1056.56] Of the great and glorious King -[1056.56 --> 1060.56] You are strong and you feel weak -[1060.56 --> 1066.56] In your brokenness complete -[1066.56 --> 1070.56] Shout to the north and the south -[1070.56 --> 1074.56] Sing to the east and the west -[1074.56 --> 1076.56] Jesus -[1076.56 --> 1078.56] The Savior to all -[1078.56 --> 1082.56] Lord of heaven and earth -[1082.56 --> 1087.56] Rise up women of the truth -[1087.56 --> 1091.56] Stand and sing to broken hearts -[1091.56 --> 1095.56] Who can know the healing power -[1095.56 --> 1101.56] Of our awesome King of love -[1101.56 --> 1104.56] Shout to the north and the south -[1104.56 --> 1108.56] Sing to the east and the west -[1108.56 --> 1112.56] Jesus is Savior to all -[1112.56 --> 1116.56] Lord of heaven and earth -[1118.56 --> 1120.56] We've been through fire -[1120.56 --> 1122.56] We've been through rain -[1122.56 --> 1123.56] We've been through fire -[1123.56 --> 1125.56] By the power of His name -[1125.56 --> 1127.56] We've fallen deeper -[1127.56 --> 1129.56] In love with you -[1129.56 --> 1131.56] You'll burn the truth -[1131.56 --> 1132.56] On our lips -[1132.56 --> 1138.56] Shout to the north and the south -[1138.56 --> 1142.56] Sing to the east and the west -[1142.56 --> 1146.56] Jesus is Savior to all -[1146.56 --> 1150.56] Lord of heaven and earth -[1150.56 --> 1154.56] Rise up church with broken wings -[1154.56 --> 1156.56] Fill this place with songs of heaven -[1156.56 --> 1157.56] Fill this place with songs of heaven -[1157.56 --> 1159.56] Fill this place with songs of heaven -[1159.56 --> 1161.56] Of our God who reigns on high -[1161.56 --> 1165.56] By His grace again we'll fly -[1165.56 --> 1172.56] Shout to the north and the south -[1172.56 --> 1174.56] Sing to the east and the west -[1174.56 --> 1176.56] Sing to the east and the west -[1176.56 --> 1180.56] Jesus is Savior to all -[1180.56 --> 1182.56] Lord of heaven and earth -[1182.56 --> 1184.56] Shout to the north and the south -[1184.56 --> 1186.56] Sing to the east and the west -[1186.56 --> 1189.56] Sing to the north and the south -[1189.56 --> 1191.56] Sing to the east and the west -[1191.56 --> 1194.56] Sing to the east and the west -[1194.56 --> 1197.56] Jesus is Savior to all -[1197.56 --> 1201.56] Lord of heaven and earth -[1201.56 --> 1205.56] Lord of heaven and earth -[1205.56 --> 1230.24] We are a moment, you are forever -[1230.24 --> 1237.68] Lord of the ages, God before time -[1237.68 --> 1244.16] We are a vapor, you are eternal -[1244.16 --> 1252.24] Love everlasting, reigning on high -[1252.90 --> 1259.12] Holy, holy Lord God almighty -[1259.12 --> 1266.30] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[1266.30 --> 1272.62] Highest praises, honor and glory -[1272.62 --> 1278.12] Be unto your name -[1278.12 --> 1285.12] Be unto your name -[1285.12 --> 1292.30] We are the broken, you are the healer -[1292.30 --> 1298.62] Jesus, Redeemer, mighty to save -[1298.62 --> 1304.30] You are the love song, we'll sing forever -[1304.30 --> 1311.48] Vowing before you, blessing your name -[1311.48 --> 1319.30] Holy, holy Lord God almighty -[1319.30 --> 1325.48] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[1325.48 --> 1332.66] Highest praises, honor and glory -[1332.66 --> 1338.66] Be unto your name -[1338.66 --> 1345.84] Be unto your name -[1345.84 --> 1351.02] Holy, holy Lord God almighty -[1351.02 --> 1356.84] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[1356.84 --> 1364.02] Highest praises, honor and glory -[1364.02 --> 1370.02] Be unto your name -[1370.02 --> 1377.20] Be unto your name -[1377.20 --> 1383.20] Be unto your name -[1383.20 --> 1386.38] I invite you to see it -[1386.38 --> 1388.38] I invite you to see it -[1388.38 --> 1402.02] Good morning -[1402.02 --> 1404.82] My name is Allison -[1404.82 --> 1406.52] Allison and I am one of the deacons -[1406.52 --> 1408.78] Here at Langley Emanuel -[1408.78 --> 1411.22] This morning I want to highlight -[1411.22 --> 1415.64] Three different things for the offering -[1415.64 --> 1417.96] One is just the normal running of the church -[1417.96 --> 1420.28] The programs and things we have going on here -[1420.28 --> 1421.82] At the church -[1421.82 --> 1427.82] The other thing is the baby bottle thing -[1427.82 --> 1432.78] This is an amazing organization -[1432.78 --> 1437.24] That helps women who need help -[1437.24 --> 1439.96] With pregnancy and after care -[1439.96 --> 1440.96] After abortion -[1440.96 --> 1442.16] They do amazing work -[1442.16 --> 1443.32] So the baby bottles -[1443.32 --> 1444.36] They're out there -[1444.36 --> 1447.04] It's not too late to pick one up -[1447.04 --> 1449.18] Traditionally we bring them back -[1449.18 --> 1452.64] To the church on Father's Day -[1452.64 --> 1455.56] So I'll be out there at the back -[1455.56 --> 1456.26] After the service -[1456.26 --> 1458.32] If you need any questions -[1458.32 --> 1460.02] If you have any questions about that -[1460.02 --> 1463.08] The third thing is that we want to highlight today -[1463.08 --> 1464.46] Is Safe Church -[1464.46 --> 1466.20] And that's an organization -[1466.20 --> 1467.96] That helps churches -[1467.96 --> 1470.14] In all kinds of denominations -[1470.14 --> 1472.18] Ours included -[1472.18 --> 1476.86] Create and develop a safe place -[1476.86 --> 1479.44] For families, for children -[1479.44 --> 1484.58] For anyone who is in an abusive situation -[1484.58 --> 1485.96] And just need some help -[1485.96 --> 1486.88] And some safety -[1486.88 --> 1488.58] Some safe place to go -[1488.58 --> 1491.30] Again an amazing organization -[1491.30 --> 1493.52] Sadly needed in our culture -[1493.52 --> 1495.76] But they are here -[1495.76 --> 1497.72] They're at our church as well -[1497.72 --> 1504.50] So that's the three things this morning -[1504.50 --> 1505.64] So thank you -[1505.64 --> 1517.26] Let's pray that please -[1517.26 --> 1520.74] ... -[1520.74 --> 1539.70] Jesus, be the center -[1539.70 --> 1546.24] Be my source, be my life -[1546.24 --> 1547.84] Jesus -[1547.84 --> 1559.02] Jesus, be the center -[1559.02 --> 1565.50] Be my hope, be my song -[1565.50 --> 1567.04] Jesus -[1567.04 --> 1574.96] Be the fire in my heart -[1574.96 --> 1579.70] Be the wind in these sails -[1579.70 --> 1584.38] Be the reason that I live -[1584.38 --> 1585.96] Jesus -[1585.96 --> 1588.40] Jesus -[1588.40 --> 1594.40] Jesus -[1594.40 --> 1599.14] Be my vision -[1599.14 --> 1605.58] Be my path, be my guide -[1605.58 --> 1607.14] Jesus -[1607.14 --> 1614.82] Be the fire in my heart -[1614.82 --> 1619.56] Be the wind in these sails -[1619.56 --> 1624.10] Be the reason that I live -[1624.10 --> 1625.82] Jesus -[1625.82 --> 1628.06] Jesus -[1628.06 --> 1633.56] Jesus -[1633.56 --> 1638.30] Be the center -[1638.30 --> 1642.98] Be my source -[1642.98 --> 1644.56] Be my light -[1644.56 --> 1646.56] Jesus -[1646.56 --> 1648.56] Jesus -[1648.56 --> 1661.72] Amen -[1663.96 --> 1665.36] Jesus -[1665.36 --> 1667.42] Jesus -[1667.42 --> 1674.24] time, but we'll share a little bit about our theme a minute here. Oh boy, out of breath even. -[1675.92 --> 1682.10] Nice to see you guys. Come on up. Anybody else? It's welcome. I know I have a special bag here, -[1682.14 --> 1690.62] as usual, a few props. I have a bit of a confession though. I am not a super good swimmer. -[1691.62 --> 1697.12] Who here is a good swimmer? Who's in swimming lessons this summer? Yeah, a few of you guys are -[1697.12 --> 1703.52] in swimming lessons. I'm not a super good swimmer and I feel like I might need a little bit of help -[1703.52 --> 1710.82] with that. So I'm just kind of wondering if I could have two volunteers that could be my coach for a -[1710.82 --> 1716.62] minute. Yeah, Carys, you want to come on up? Did you want to come up and help too? No? We need another -[1716.62 --> 1720.42] coach. How about you two ladies as well? You're so enthusiastic. You can help too. Why don't you come -[1720.42 --> 1726.32] help too? Yeah, okay. We can't all wear... Okay, we've got a coach's hat for you. We got to play the part -[1726.32 --> 1734.48] here a little bit, or else I won't believe you. And a wee whistle. Oh boy. Okay. Yep. And we're -[1734.48 --> 1742.16] gonna need this. We're gonna need this lifeguarding shirt, lest something go wrong here up front. -[1742.16 --> 1749.12] And I suppose I should play the part too, eh? So before we get into the training session that I'm -[1749.12 --> 1753.28] sure you ladies have prepared. I've got, oh, I've got this. -[1753.28 --> 1757.28] It's not gonna work. -[1757.28 --> 1765.28] Okay. Okay, I'm part there and... What's that? -[1765.28 --> 1769.28] Did you bring a water pool or something? -[1769.28 --> 1775.44] Oh, I did bring a towel and my swim shorts, but maybe we'll spare everybody that. -[1775.44 --> 1779.44] Here, someone can hold... Yeah, you just hold my towel there. Thank you. And don't -[1779.44 --> 1785.44] forget, I have a lot of hair. So... I don't want any drag in the water. -[1785.44 --> 1792.32] That was a balloon. A balloon? There. It's like a glove. -[1792.32 --> 1797.68] Yeah, okay. Okay, okay, okay. Now we're all ready. We're playing the part. We've got my whole team -[1797.68 --> 1805.20] of coaches here. When it comes to swimming, you got some tips for me? You do? What's my first tip, -[1805.20 --> 1807.44] if I want to be a good swimmer? Kick. -[1807.44 --> 1813.04] Kick. Kick. All right, we've got a kick. Kick. There's kicking involved in swimming. Anything -[1813.04 --> 1821.04] else you want to share? What's another tip? Hold my breath. Good idea. That's a smoking good idea. -[1821.04 --> 1827.04] I didn't think about that one. What, anything I should do like every day to be really good at swimming? -[1827.92 --> 1837.04] Any ideas? Practice. Practice? What the? Like every day. You want me to kick and hold my breath? -[1837.04 --> 1844.96] Every day. In a pool? In a pool? Yeah. If you have a pool. If I have a pool. -[1844.96 --> 1849.04] Or just go to the public pool. Okay, or I can go to a public pool. Okay, that's a good idea. Okay, -[1849.04 --> 1857.60] anything else I should do every day? Exercise. Oh, what kind of exercises? Any ideas? Do you have any -[1857.60 --> 1864.48] good ideas for exercises? No. Push-ups? Oh boy. Oh boy, this sounds like a lot of work. I don't know if... -[1864.48 --> 1873.28] Oh, what's... More tips? Pardon me? Arm circles. Arm circles. Can you show me? Oh, okay. Show me. Oh yeah, -[1873.28 --> 1879.36] that's okay. Good arm. And what about holding my breath? How do I hold my breath? Oh, okay. Oh, we got extra. -[1879.36 --> 1888.80] And what about kicking? Like, like one kick or like double? Okay. All right. Yes. Oh, okay. I'm feeling -[1888.80 --> 1893.20] really good about this. So I feel like you guys have more tips. And I think there's some more tips from you -[1893.20 --> 1900.32] guys. And I really love that I have this whole team of coaches helping me out. So in Children's Worship -[1900.32 --> 1906.88] Time, we're going to talk a little bit more about coaches and the people in our lives, the mentors in -[1906.88 --> 1912.64] our lives that have helped us be better people, right? Because this month we're talking all about -[1912.64 --> 1921.68] the book of Hebrew, right? And training that comes with being really great followers of Jesus. Yeah? -[1921.68 --> 1925.76] So let's go to Children's Worship Time. We can talk more about that. You guys can keep that stuff on, -[1925.76 --> 1930.96] because I need to get some more tips from you. We're going to keep the conversation going in -[1930.96 --> 1936.72] Children's Worship Time. But before we go, shall we stand together? And we will bless the congregation -[1936.72 --> 1942.24] as they stay to hear a message. And they will bless us in return as we go to learn more about the book -[1942.24 --> 1951.20] of Hebrews. All right, arms up. The Lord be with you. And also with you. -[1955.76 --> 1970.40] Whenever the Children's Worship Time people come up here, you just never know what you're going to get. -[1972.40 --> 1979.52] At this time in our worship together, we're going to spend a moment trusting in God's provision for -[1979.52 --> 1985.28] the leadership of this church. And so we're going to draw lots from the office bearers who have, -[1985.28 --> 1989.92] or the potential office bearers who have been nominated and affirmed in our process over the last -[1990.64 --> 1996.24] number of weeks and months. So I'm going to invite the outgoing office bearers who are here -[1996.24 --> 2000.88] to come up to the front as part of this process. -[2000.88 --> 2014.96] And for you, first we want to say thank you for your willingness to serve and for the -[2016.32 --> 2022.72] three years and plus that you have given us in this work. We are really grateful for the way that God has -[2022.72 --> 2029.60] used you and provided for this church through your service to Christ in our midst. And so thank you for -[2029.60 --> 2035.36] that. Before we draw lots, we're going to pray together. And I have asked Seth to take care of that. -[2035.36 --> 2043.84] Please join me in prayer. Father in heaven, we thank you for this day. And we thank you for more evidence of -[2043.84 --> 2048.64] your faithful providence for this church. Thank you for the way that you have blessed us with people who -[2048.64 --> 2053.04] have willing hearts, who are willing to follow your call to allow their names to stand for this nomination. -[2053.84 --> 2059.04] We pray to you that you will guide this next step as we draw lots. You know the people that you have -[2059.04 --> 2064.80] chosen already. And we thank you that we get to have that revealed to us today. And we can put our trust -[2064.80 --> 2069.04] in you because you are a loving God always and forever. Amen. -[2069.04 --> 2072.88] Thank you. -[2072.88 --> 2079.84] And so the way this process ordinarily works, the outgoing office bearer will draw the lot for the -[2079.84 --> 2086.24] new office bearer to replace them. Because we only have one deacon and we're looking for two positions, -[2086.24 --> 2100.88] Yap is going to draw two names out of the bag labeled deacon there. -[2100.88 --> 2104.96] Can you read them? Yes, I can. -[2104.96 --> 2107.60] Uh, Warren Verhoof. -[2110.96 --> 2112.56] And uh, Pete Birkenpass. -[2114.72 --> 2118.80] Excellent. Warren Verhoof and Pete Birkenpass. -[2119.68 --> 2126.40] And then now we're going to draw for Elder. And so John, if you would have Seth draw one. -[2126.40 --> 2131.36] And then Ken, you can draw one. And John, you draw one. -[2131.36 --> 2133.44] And then Ken, you can draw one. -[2141.44 --> 2142.16] Pim Schoen. -[2142.16 --> 2145.68] Jesus Hernandez. -[2145.68 --> 2148.16] Frank Welfing. -[2148.16 --> 2150.08] Amen. -[2150.08 --> 2157.12] To all those whose names have been drawn, thank you for your willingness to serve. -[2157.44 --> 2162.64] And to those whose names haven't been drawn, we trust and pray that God will use you in our midst -[2162.64 --> 2168.08] in a different way. And to that effect, we would like to also pray together. And so I'm going to -[2168.08 --> 2173.52] conclude this process with a prayer of thanksgiving and discernment together. Let's pray. -[2176.32 --> 2180.80] Heavenly Father, we thank you for again providing leaders for your church. -[2181.76 --> 2187.04] We thank you for moving in all these people to accept the nomination. And we pray that in this -[2187.04 --> 2194.24] selection, those chosen would hear your call. And so equip them for the work of service you call them -[2194.24 --> 2202.16] to. A special prayer of thanksgiving for those not chosen this morning. May they hear your call in -[2202.16 --> 2210.64] another way and find opportunity to serve your church. We trust and commit to trusting the process -[2210.64 --> 2219.44] and guiding of the Holy Spirit. May we all, together as one, serve you faithfully, sacrificially, -[2219.44 --> 2227.76] and with humility. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. Amen. Thank you, gentlemen. You may go back to your seats. -[2227.76 --> 2236.08] Amen. The Lord willing, next week we will have the installation for these office bearers in our -[2236.08 --> 2239.28] midst and as part of our worship together. Thank you. -[2250.48 --> 2257.52] Before I lead you in our congregational prayer, I just had a note this morning of a group of young -[2257.52 --> 2262.24] people from our church that are going on a mission trip to the Philippines, a short-term mission of -[2262.24 --> 2270.72] two weeks. I would like to pray for Jared Alcoma, Josh Chamberlain, Mikkelte Grimm, and Sarah Molenkamp. -[2271.36 --> 2277.68] They have joined with a group from Gateway Community Church in Abbotsford. And they're reaching out to -[2277.68 --> 2290.96] a group of people in the Philippines who have not been, they're kind of in a group that is not part of the regular -[2293.44 --> 2299.36] people in, they're an outreach group that is in kind of in the jungles their way out. So it'll be a -[2299.36 --> 2303.20] bit of a trek for them to get there and we pray a blessing on their trip, on their time there. -[2303.20 --> 2313.92] Also, mention of Ethan Fisher who was married on May 27th to Anna. We pray a blessing on their -[2314.48 --> 2321.52] their wedding and the marriage that they have just started that may be a blessing for both of them as -[2321.52 --> 2333.04] they take on this life together. Also a note of my sister to Jo to Clary Klosterhoff, Joan has -[2333.68 --> 2340.16] finished her cancer treatment and we're praying for a good result from that. Lord, we -[2342.32 --> 2347.04] bring these people before you in our prayer and others that are in our congregation that need your -[2347.04 --> 2358.40] prayer as well. Let's pray. Oh Lord God, we come before you this morning. Lord, to you only can we -[2358.40 --> 2364.16] give praise and honour and glory. You are the only one that we can give that to. We cannot give it to -[2364.16 --> 2370.08] any other. Lord, you are the creator of this world. You have brought it into being. You've brought us into -[2370.08 --> 2376.96] being as people to give you the honour and glory that is due your name. Lord, we do that now this -[2376.96 --> 2382.24] morning as we worship together. We're thankful for the opportunity and the freedom we have to do this. -[2383.68 --> 2393.04] Lord, we come as sinful people, broken hearted. Lord, not always giving our due to you. Lord, we pray for -[2393.04 --> 2404.64] forgiveness that is needed as people who are broken and sinful. Lord, we live in a broken world and we see -[2404.64 --> 2412.88] many challenges in our community. Lord, sometimes it's health, physical, mental, broken relationships. -[2412.88 --> 2420.80] Lord, we bring these relationships before you for healing, for strength, recovery. Lord, especially those -[2420.80 --> 2425.92] who are battling with cancer, Lord, and that seems to be a difficult thing to deal with, sometimes with -[2425.92 --> 2433.92] good results, sometimes not. Lord, we pray for Tessa and Doug who are doing treatment still. We pray for -[2433.92 --> 2441.52] Tanya who is living with hospice care, Lord. We pray a blessing for her and her challenges with the lung -[2441.52 --> 2447.20] cancer she's dealing with. We pray for your mercy in her life, for healing, for strength, for peace. -[2447.20 --> 2454.88] We pray for Joan too, who has undergone treatment and looking forward to a good result. We pray for a -[2454.88 --> 2456.56] blessing in that situation as well. -[2460.96 --> 2465.60] Lord, we pray for these young people that we mentioned earlier that are going to -[2466.72 --> 2473.04] the Philippines on a short-term mission trip. Lord, as they give the lives for this two-week period to -[2473.04 --> 2479.52] reach out to untouched peoples. We pray a blessing on their trip, that your spirit may hover over them -[2479.52 --> 2486.24] as they go. Lord, each one needs your presence as they spend this time doing your work. -[2489.04 --> 2494.96] Lord, I pray a blessing for Ethan and Anna too, as they have joined in marriage. We pray a blessing on -[2494.96 --> 2501.12] that family as they've started their lives together, that they may serve you in whatever capacity you have -[2501.12 --> 2510.88] blessed them with. Lord, we pray once again for this church and the ministries that it has, the work -[2510.88 --> 2517.44] that is being done here. We're thankful for the pastors that we have, for office bearers who are willing to -[2517.44 --> 2524.48] serve, for those who have served and will be serving. Lord, we pray for the ministry leaders as they're -[2525.12 --> 2529.04] coming to the end of a season and looking forward to a new season to come in the fall. -[2529.04 --> 2536.64] We pray a blessing on the time that summertime can give rest and relief, but also renewing of energy -[2536.64 --> 2543.76] for the work that needs to be done. Lord, I pray for our governments, Lord, as we -[2546.24 --> 2551.76] know that they need your presence, your guiding and leading for them to govern honestly and truthfully. -[2551.76 --> 2558.48] We pray a blessing, Lord, on Kevin as he will preaching your word this morning. -[2559.52 --> 2565.68] Work in his heart to say the words that you want him to say to us that your spirit may move in our lives. -[2565.68 --> 2580.16] Lord, as the psalm five says, let all who take refuge in you rejoice. Let them sing joyful praises forever. -[2580.88 --> 2585.92] Spread your protection over them that all who love your name may be filled with joy. -[2585.92 --> 2592.24] Lord, we pray for you bless the godly, O Lord. You surround them with your shield of love. -[2595.12 --> 2602.96] To you, O Lord, do we pray through the power of the cross for Jesus Christ who died on the cross for our sins. -[2604.00 --> 2615.68] We pray this in the name of Jesus Christ in his name alone and your name alone. Amen. -[2615.92 --> 2617.92] Amen. -[2631.84 --> 2641.68] I actually don't remember where I heard this story from or even who I heard this story about or who it is about. -[2641.68 --> 2648.80] It might have been a friend of a friend or a great aunt, I'm not sure. It's also possible that one of you told me this story. -[2649.44 --> 2653.52] And if it was you, you could come up to me afterwards and say it was me and I apologize if I forgot. -[2653.68 --> 2657.30] But this story did leave a place in my brain and it came to my mind this week. -[2657.52 --> 2662.94] There was this elderly woman someone in my life knew who had played the piano her entire life. -[2662.94 --> 2670.48] She'd grown up playing it, spent years playing the piano in front of church, helping with choirs. -[2670.58 --> 2673.04] I think she even taught the piano to some students. -[2673.90 --> 2678.94] But father time kind of kept on churning and eventually health problems and some family transitions -[2679.46 --> 2683.60] and probably a bunch of other things caused her to slowly stop playing. -[2683.60 --> 2690.04] Eventually it had been well over a decade since she had last tickled the ivories, as the kids say. -[2691.12 --> 2697.12] One day, though, her young granddaughter was sitting in her house with her and she noticed this piano in the corner of the room. -[2698.08 --> 2700.54] She asked her grandma, Grandma, did you play that? -[2700.90 --> 2701.78] And grandma said, yes. -[2701.98 --> 2704.40] And the granddaughter said, well, could you play something for me? -[2704.82 --> 2707.74] And the grandmother looked at her granddaughter and said, I don't remember. -[2707.74 --> 2709.72] I don't think I've played in 10 years. -[2709.82 --> 2710.68] I don't think I can play. -[2711.36 --> 2713.98] And the granddaughter looked at her and said, well, come on, grandma, just try. -[2714.38 --> 2715.08] You used to. -[2716.04 --> 2722.04] And so she got up and she sat down at the piano and she sat down and just started to play. -[2722.56 --> 2728.38] And within a minute or two, the songs came back and the music started flowing out of her fingers again. -[2729.34 --> 2730.46] And she smiled. -[2731.54 --> 2737.32] She just needed her granddaughter to remind her of what she had forgotten. -[2738.60 --> 2741.54] The story is a bit of a picture of what we're going to look at today. -[2741.74 --> 2743.62] I think sometimes we feel a little bit lost. -[2743.72 --> 2748.96] We feel like we've forgotten who we are, how to live, perhaps even what to believe. -[2749.92 --> 2752.92] Sometimes we may get confused by the world around us. -[2753.40 --> 2758.08] That's one of the things that happened to this church in Thessalonica that we've been looking at recently. -[2758.30 --> 2761.84] But our text today, God calls us to remember. -[2762.86 --> 2766.68] He's reminding those who believe of what they already know. -[2766.68 --> 2770.80] And so we're going to look at that text now, which is part of our sermon series. -[2770.92 --> 2775.62] We've been going through these two letters to the church of the Thessalonican church. -[2776.10 --> 2778.12] And so we are on 2 Thessalonians now. -[2778.28 --> 2781.84] We're going to look at chapter 2 and we're going to read verses 13 to 17. -[2781.96 --> 2785.00] As always, I encourage you, pull out those Bibles you brought with us. -[2785.10 --> 2786.46] Grab one from the back if you need. -[2786.52 --> 2791.22] You can even turn your phones on and check out the Bible apps with you this morning. -[2791.22 --> 2793.52] But please do follow along. -[2794.44 --> 2798.82] So in Thessalonians 2, verses 13 to 17, we read this. -[2800.34 --> 2805.36] But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters, loved by the Lord, -[2805.64 --> 2812.22] because God chose you as firstfruits to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit -[2812.22 --> 2813.96] and through belief in the truth. -[2813.96 --> 2820.84] He called you to this through our gospel that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. -[2821.48 --> 2826.46] So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teachings we passed on to you, -[2826.74 --> 2828.60] whether by word of mouth or by letter. -[2829.32 --> 2835.12] May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us -[2835.12 --> 2842.42] eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word. -[2842.42 --> 2844.12] The word of the Lord. -[2846.04 --> 2849.40] It's like we mentioned, the last couple weeks, Pastor Chris and Josh, -[2849.54 --> 2856.52] they've led us through a couple of sermons on one of the struggles that this church in Thessalonica was going through. -[2857.20 --> 2859.90] This church was concerned and they were confused. -[2860.26 --> 2863.40] They were worried that Jesus had already come back. -[2864.20 --> 2866.40] And they were uncertain of where that left them. -[2867.44 --> 2869.88] Paul then told them how this just simply is not true. -[2869.88 --> 2874.04] He mentioned a bit about the apocalypse or Christ's revelation, -[2874.38 --> 2876.34] that it would not come quietly, -[2877.46 --> 2880.82] and how certain things needed to happen before Christ's second coming. -[2881.02 --> 2882.40] Those things needed to take place. -[2882.78 --> 2887.64] In today's text, Paul, in some ways, he kind of puts a little bow on this conversation -[2887.64 --> 2891.04] by reminding this church of some very important things, -[2891.80 --> 2893.76] mainly their identity. -[2893.76 --> 2898.32] The reminder is our big idea from this text today. -[2898.32 --> 2903.78] By remembering our God-given identity and God's sure calling, -[2904.38 --> 2908.60] we are set free to stand firm and live boldly. -[2909.66 --> 2914.32] The Thessalonian church was confused and they were looking for some certainty. -[2915.80 --> 2919.66] Now, confusion and certainty, they are at opposite ends, aren't they? -[2919.66 --> 2923.78] This is something that Christians have wrestled with forever, I think. -[2923.82 --> 2924.90] Not just Christians, actually. -[2925.06 --> 2928.52] This is something that humanity wrestles with, isn't it? -[2928.76 --> 2929.44] I mean, look at me. -[2929.48 --> 2930.68] I'm confused all the time. -[2931.38 --> 2932.94] Confusion is just part of the package. -[2933.24 --> 2934.12] It's just part of life. -[2934.36 --> 2935.62] When I was at Redeemer, actually, -[2935.92 --> 2940.34] I once had two exams on one day at the end of my semester. -[2941.22 --> 2943.06] I had two exams on one day. -[2943.06 --> 2946.64] An afternoon exam and an evening exam. -[2947.04 --> 2947.86] And I thought to myself, -[2948.02 --> 2949.86] well, the day before those two exams, -[2950.06 --> 2952.52] I'll just hang out in my room and cram all day, -[2952.84 --> 2954.82] you know, studying like you're studying should be done. -[2956.86 --> 2959.34] But then my roommate that morning, 8 a.m., -[2959.34 --> 2961.04] popped his head into my room, Randall, -[2961.68 --> 2962.32] and he says, -[2962.40 --> 2964.86] Kevin, I'm going to watch all three extended versions -[2964.86 --> 2966.42] of the Lord of the Rings trilogy. -[2966.60 --> 2967.94] Do you want to watch those with me? -[2968.56 --> 2970.30] And obviously I said yes. -[2970.82 --> 2972.66] I just figured Tolkien was a smart dude. -[2972.66 --> 2974.38] I'd probably learn through osmosis somehow -[2974.38 --> 2976.62] by what he was putting on the screen. -[2976.80 --> 2977.82] Speaking of the Lord of the Rings, -[2977.90 --> 2978.86] just a little bit of a side, -[2978.92 --> 2979.82] and speaking of confusion, -[2980.30 --> 2982.46] I know I was confused the first and last time -[2982.46 --> 2984.12] I tried to make my way through those books. -[2984.40 --> 2985.16] I don't know if you were. -[2985.52 --> 2988.02] Between the Boromirs and Foromirs -[2988.02 --> 2990.18] and Saramons and Sorons, -[2990.24 --> 2990.86] I couldn't hack it. -[2991.36 --> 2992.52] Anyways, the movies were good. -[2992.98 --> 2994.20] And so I sat down with Randall -[2994.20 --> 2995.80] and we hammered through all three movies -[2995.80 --> 2997.06] 14 hours that day, -[2997.08 --> 2997.68] and I went to bed. -[2998.60 --> 2999.96] I woke up the next day. -[2999.96 --> 3002.06] I showed up for my 2 p.m. exam. -[3002.66 --> 3004.06] I was instantly confused. -[3004.98 --> 3006.16] I was instantly confused -[3006.16 --> 3007.06] because I looked around -[3007.06 --> 3008.92] and there was not a person from my class there. -[3009.94 --> 3011.38] After I sniffed around a bit, -[3011.72 --> 3013.56] I realized that my 2 p.m. exam -[3013.56 --> 3015.90] was actually a 9 a.m. exam, -[3016.12 --> 3019.10] and I was five hours late and missed it. -[3019.82 --> 3019.98] Yeah. -[3021.30 --> 3022.36] Long story short, -[3022.78 --> 3025.58] I got to meet with the education committee right away. -[3025.94 --> 3027.70] I was completely honest with them. -[3027.70 --> 3028.98] I told them the whole story -[3028.98 --> 3030.86] right down to the Gandalfs and the Dumbledores -[3030.86 --> 3033.64] and how it was an honest-to-goodness mistake, -[3033.86 --> 3035.10] and for some reason, -[3035.60 --> 3036.60] they took pity on me, -[3036.76 --> 3039.20] and they let me take that exam -[3039.20 --> 3040.04] right then and there -[3040.04 --> 3041.12] with just some minor penalties. -[3041.56 --> 3044.26] They were gracious amidst my confusion. -[3045.38 --> 3046.42] I finished that exam up -[3046.42 --> 3047.58] just in time to take the second one. -[3047.64 --> 3049.52] I have no idea how well I did on either of them, -[3049.56 --> 3050.24] but here I am now, -[3050.32 --> 3051.34] so it couldn't have been that bad. -[3051.34 --> 3054.74] But confusion happens, right? -[3055.20 --> 3056.40] We all get confused, -[3056.60 --> 3058.18] sometimes by our own doing, -[3058.54 --> 3060.68] sometimes by the influence of others, -[3060.68 --> 3061.48] like Randall. -[3062.28 --> 3065.60] We have moments of confusion -[3065.60 --> 3067.66] in our Christian lives too, -[3068.50 --> 3069.32] moments of doubt. -[3069.92 --> 3072.96] We try to wrap our heads around God, -[3073.06 --> 3074.12] around His world, -[3074.58 --> 3075.58] around His Word, -[3075.98 --> 3077.58] around our rules within it, -[3078.16 --> 3080.56] and we all naturally actually think of God, -[3080.56 --> 3083.04] and we limit Him to our own stories -[3083.04 --> 3084.20] and our own contexts. -[3084.52 --> 3086.38] And sometimes this brings confusion -[3086.38 --> 3087.48] in our walks with God. -[3087.70 --> 3089.66] There can be confusion about God's will -[3089.66 --> 3090.90] for our lives, for example, -[3090.98 --> 3094.44] or confusion about how suffering happens -[3094.44 --> 3096.56] and why it's a part of our life. -[3096.66 --> 3098.68] Confusion about church and community -[3098.68 --> 3099.92] and why that's important. -[3100.58 --> 3102.12] Confusion about our identity -[3102.12 --> 3104.14] and who we are. -[3105.14 --> 3106.52] Confusion strikes all of us. -[3107.92 --> 3109.64] A lot of the Thessalonians' confusion, -[3109.64 --> 3113.22] though, stemmed from their lack of understanding -[3113.22 --> 3115.38] of their own spiritual identity. -[3116.66 --> 3118.24] Like I said, this can happen to us too, -[3118.50 --> 3120.00] perhaps even especially -[3120.00 --> 3122.12] to long-time Christians. -[3122.70 --> 3124.62] People who have given their lives to Christ -[3124.62 --> 3126.00] so long ago -[3126.00 --> 3127.86] that the truth of the gospel -[3127.86 --> 3128.86] has actually started -[3128.86 --> 3130.44] to feel a little bit bland, -[3131.06 --> 3132.22] a little bit mundane, -[3132.84 --> 3134.76] and it starts to fall on numb ears. -[3134.76 --> 3138.00] We forget about Christ's life, -[3138.32 --> 3139.26] death, and resurrection, -[3139.54 --> 3141.04] and what it means for us. -[3141.56 --> 3142.72] We become apathetic -[3142.72 --> 3144.30] and we forget the power -[3144.30 --> 3145.22] that we live with, -[3145.58 --> 3147.08] the victory that's been won, -[3147.22 --> 3148.92] or the purpose with which we live. -[3150.56 --> 3151.84] And then we end up listening -[3151.84 --> 3153.44] to some preacher someone recommended, -[3153.86 --> 3155.28] or you hear something on the news, -[3155.38 --> 3156.48] or we get caught up -[3156.48 --> 3158.08] on some online forum, -[3158.08 --> 3159.58] and we engage it -[3159.58 --> 3161.34] with just a little bit too much chutzpah, -[3161.54 --> 3163.54] and then confusion starts to set in. -[3165.46 --> 3166.60] And we get confused -[3166.60 --> 3167.82] by the world around us, -[3167.92 --> 3169.08] confused by politics -[3169.64 --> 3171.08] and popular opinions -[3171.08 --> 3172.46] and posts online. -[3172.66 --> 3174.24] We start looking for certainty -[3174.24 --> 3175.88] in the wrong places. -[3176.66 --> 3178.42] And we start believing in lies -[3178.42 --> 3180.58] which are dressed up as virtues. -[3180.58 --> 3184.56] We're promised all sorts -[3184.56 --> 3185.74] of certainties in this world, -[3186.54 --> 3188.30] certainties that sound really good -[3188.30 --> 3188.94] on the surface, -[3189.54 --> 3192.12] but they can be deceptive at their core, -[3192.60 --> 3193.78] even really good things. -[3195.20 --> 3196.72] An education ensures -[3196.72 --> 3198.74] that you will have a secure job -[3198.74 --> 3199.42] with high earnings. -[3200.58 --> 3201.58] Your marriage guarantees -[3202.34 --> 3203.40] a life of happiness. -[3204.68 --> 3206.62] If you just alter one thing -[3206.62 --> 3207.42] about yourself, -[3207.86 --> 3209.86] people will certainly accept you. -[3211.58 --> 3213.28] Comfort is surely found -[3213.28 --> 3214.86] in one more hour of gaming, -[3215.20 --> 3217.02] one more pull of that slot machine, -[3217.34 --> 3219.16] one more trip to that plastic surgeon, -[3219.48 --> 3220.48] one more investment -[3220.48 --> 3221.52] in the right portfolio. -[3223.26 --> 3224.36] And the truth is, -[3224.44 --> 3225.32] none of that is certain. -[3226.86 --> 3228.16] Education is important, -[3228.86 --> 3229.38] absolutely, -[3229.84 --> 3231.40] but it doesn't guarantee you anything. -[3232.90 --> 3234.26] Relationships are vital, -[3235.20 --> 3236.92] but they're often the source -[3236.92 --> 3237.56] of our suffering. -[3238.30 --> 3239.28] Don't always come with happiness. -[3240.58 --> 3242.26] Changing your identity -[3242.26 --> 3244.12] or values to be accepted by others -[3244.12 --> 3246.20] cheapens who you've been created to be -[3246.20 --> 3248.46] and often creates more confusion -[3248.46 --> 3249.66] than what you find yourself in. -[3251.08 --> 3252.88] And comfort, in my opinion, -[3253.10 --> 3254.72] is the greatest idol -[3254.72 --> 3256.04] that our world seeks. -[3257.66 --> 3258.66] They're all lies, -[3258.86 --> 3260.02] and they're all masquerading -[3260.02 --> 3261.68] as certainties in our world. -[3261.68 --> 3264.22] And all of those supposed certainties -[3264.22 --> 3265.08] and all of those supposed certainties -[3265.08 --> 3268.18] end up bringing just more confusion. -[3270.66 --> 3271.78] In our confusion, -[3271.94 --> 3273.30] we seek those certainties, -[3273.78 --> 3275.86] but those certainties are often lies -[3275.86 --> 3277.66] or they're just too far away -[3277.66 --> 3278.48] for us to grasp. -[3278.48 --> 3282.10] But maybe, -[3282.40 --> 3284.02] in our confusion, -[3285.02 --> 3288.14] instead of seeking certainties, -[3288.64 --> 3290.82] we need to seek what Paul is offering -[3290.82 --> 3292.78] the Thessalonian church in our text today. -[3294.04 --> 3296.26] See, Paul didn't give them certainties. -[3297.58 --> 3299.16] He gives them clarity. -[3299.16 --> 3302.96] So maybe instead for us, -[3303.64 --> 3305.58] instead of striving for certainties, -[3306.16 --> 3309.72] we also need just a little bit of clarity. -[3311.70 --> 3313.80] See, Paul provides this church with clarity -[3313.80 --> 3315.26] in the midst of their confusion. -[3315.58 --> 3317.02] When certainty wasn't cutting it, -[3317.20 --> 3319.12] when the church was looking for certainty -[3319.12 --> 3320.76] on specific details -[3320.76 --> 3324.10] as to the who's and the how's and the when's. -[3324.16 --> 3325.28] For example, if you remember, -[3325.56 --> 3327.14] who is this man of lawlessness? -[3327.14 --> 3327.76] They wanted to know, -[3327.90 --> 3330.42] how will we know we didn't miss Christ's return? -[3330.72 --> 3332.56] When is all of this going to happen? -[3332.94 --> 3334.38] Paul doesn't give them certainties. -[3335.46 --> 3338.02] He doesn't answer those questions with certainties. -[3338.90 --> 3340.62] But he does provide clarity. -[3342.24 --> 3343.78] Clarity was going to stabilize them. -[3343.92 --> 3345.80] Clarity over certainty. -[3346.64 --> 3348.94] And he provides this clarity -[3348.94 --> 3351.10] in the form of encouragement. -[3351.60 --> 3353.18] He encourages this church. -[3353.50 --> 3354.94] Verse 13 of our text, -[3355.00 --> 3355.46] it says this, -[3355.46 --> 3358.54] We ought always to thank God for you, -[3358.68 --> 3359.36] brothers and sisters, -[3359.78 --> 3360.62] loved by the Lord -[3360.62 --> 3363.20] because God chose you as firstfruits -[3363.20 --> 3366.90] to be saved through the sanctifying work -[3366.90 --> 3367.76] of the Spirit -[3367.76 --> 3369.48] and through belief in the truth. -[3370.26 --> 3370.96] Notice, though, -[3370.98 --> 3372.58] what Paul is gracious for here. -[3374.14 --> 3375.86] He is thankful for these people, -[3375.94 --> 3377.06] but he's not thankful -[3377.06 --> 3379.44] for what they have done. -[3380.42 --> 3382.72] He's not grateful because of their work, -[3382.72 --> 3385.44] but because of God's work, -[3385.64 --> 3387.46] because God chose them to be saved. -[3387.66 --> 3389.38] He chose them to be sanctified. -[3389.72 --> 3391.36] Paul's gratitude from this church, -[3391.58 --> 3392.82] from 2 Thessalonians, -[3393.00 --> 3394.68] actually mirrors the gratitude -[3394.68 --> 3396.22] he gives at the beginning -[3396.22 --> 3397.94] of 1 Thessalonians, -[3398.00 --> 3400.16] way back into our first sermon -[3400.16 --> 3401.42] in this sermon series, -[3401.62 --> 3403.42] in 1 Thessalonians 1, verse 3. -[3403.86 --> 3404.88] There, Paul mentions -[3404.88 --> 3406.42] how grateful he is for this church. -[3406.42 --> 3407.42] But again, -[3407.42 --> 3410.18] his gratitude is not based -[3410.18 --> 3411.46] on what they are doing, -[3412.46 --> 3415.02] but on what Jesus had already done. -[3415.58 --> 3417.44] He is grateful for this church -[3417.44 --> 3418.68] because of the work of Christ. -[3419.44 --> 3421.48] The church can only know -[3421.48 --> 3422.26] who we really are -[3422.26 --> 3424.38] when we remember who Christ is. -[3424.64 --> 3426.66] Only the transforming work of Christ, -[3426.76 --> 3429.04] the work that he has already done, -[3430.12 --> 3431.54] can combat this confusion, -[3431.68 --> 3433.56] can combat the deceptive work -[3433.56 --> 3434.50] of the Antichrist -[3434.50 --> 3435.60] or the man of lawlessness -[3435.60 --> 3437.12] or Satan and his minions. -[3437.50 --> 3439.22] Only the truth of Jesus -[3439.22 --> 3441.92] can combat an apathetic faith. -[3442.72 --> 3443.92] We need reminding -[3443.92 --> 3445.26] of this transformation. -[3445.54 --> 3446.42] We need to remember -[3446.42 --> 3449.02] who Christ claims us to be. -[3451.38 --> 3452.90] See, the clarity this provides -[3452.90 --> 3453.46] is crucial. -[3453.64 --> 3454.72] It grounds us. -[3455.08 --> 3457.00] It quiets the storms. -[3457.44 --> 3459.26] And it dissipates the confusion. -[3461.26 --> 3462.72] Paul reminds us -[3462.72 --> 3463.66] that for believers, -[3463.66 --> 3466.42] salvation is not -[3466.42 --> 3468.36] a subjective experience. -[3470.48 --> 3471.74] Salvation is not something -[3471.74 --> 3473.86] the church has to train for -[3473.86 --> 3474.66] in order to experience. -[3474.84 --> 3475.36] It's not something -[3475.36 --> 3476.72] that believers can miss -[3476.72 --> 3478.06] if we aren't paying attention. -[3478.24 --> 3479.56] Salvation is not something -[3479.56 --> 3481.28] anyone has to work for -[3481.28 --> 3482.28] and earn. -[3482.44 --> 3483.92] No, salvation is not -[3483.92 --> 3485.62] a subjective experience. -[3487.16 --> 3489.94] Salvation is an objective position. -[3489.94 --> 3493.26] salvation is given to us. -[3494.22 --> 3495.80] It's a gift given to us -[3495.80 --> 3496.34] by our God -[3496.34 --> 3498.86] which changes our position -[3498.86 --> 3499.94] in the kingdom. -[3500.46 --> 3502.20] Our positional standing -[3502.20 --> 3503.30] before the judge, -[3503.40 --> 3504.88] our very identities, -[3505.08 --> 3505.92] the most eternal -[3505.92 --> 3507.22] and important part -[3507.22 --> 3508.24] of who we are -[3508.24 --> 3510.72] has been clearly decided -[3510.72 --> 3511.72] already -[3511.72 --> 3515.92] by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. -[3515.92 --> 3518.14] We have been given -[3518.14 --> 3520.30] clarity and assurance -[3520.30 --> 3521.52] for our present -[3521.52 --> 3523.14] and eternal selves -[3523.14 --> 3523.94] that our identities -[3523.94 --> 3525.06] are rooted in Christ -[3525.06 --> 3526.52] and we belong to Him. -[3526.62 --> 3527.52] He chose us. -[3527.62 --> 3528.46] We are His. -[3531.46 --> 3532.66] Paul, in a different letter -[3532.66 --> 3533.50] to a different church, -[3533.68 --> 3535.14] in Ephesians 2, -[3535.22 --> 3536.18] verses 4 and 5, -[3536.24 --> 3536.86] he says this. -[3537.90 --> 3538.32] He says, -[3538.32 --> 3540.14] but because of His -[3540.14 --> 3541.78] great love for us, -[3542.24 --> 3543.60] God who is rich in mercy -[3543.60 --> 3545.40] made us alive with Christ -[3545.40 --> 3546.80] even when we were dead -[3546.80 --> 3547.66] in transgression. -[3547.92 --> 3548.88] It is by grace -[3548.88 --> 3549.84] that you have been saved. -[3550.14 --> 3551.36] Not by our love -[3551.36 --> 3553.12] or our deeds -[3553.12 --> 3554.18] or our response -[3554.18 --> 3555.10] or our doing, -[3556.00 --> 3557.40] but because of His -[3557.40 --> 3559.88] great love for us, -[3560.14 --> 3561.74] God made us alive -[3561.74 --> 3562.66] in Christ -[3562.66 --> 3564.00] even when we were dead -[3564.00 --> 3564.54] in sins. -[3565.24 --> 3566.26] It is by grace -[3566.26 --> 3567.22] that you have been saved. -[3568.86 --> 3570.70] This is our clarity. -[3571.78 --> 3573.82] As soon as God chose you, -[3573.98 --> 3575.44] your objective position -[3575.44 --> 3576.72] in the kingdom changed. -[3577.26 --> 3578.88] That is the sanctifying work -[3578.88 --> 3579.44] of the Spirit -[3579.44 --> 3580.44] Paul is talking about -[3580.44 --> 3581.04] in this text. -[3581.28 --> 3582.18] Again, verse 13, -[3582.48 --> 3583.16] God chose you -[3583.16 --> 3583.82] as firstfruits -[3583.82 --> 3584.40] to be saved -[3584.40 --> 3586.48] through the sanctifying work -[3586.48 --> 3587.78] of the Spirit -[3587.78 --> 3588.40] and through belief -[3588.40 --> 3588.82] in the truth. -[3589.12 --> 3590.48] You are declared as gods. -[3591.16 --> 3592.00] Sin no longer -[3592.00 --> 3592.88] rules your life. -[3593.62 --> 3594.62] We are no longer -[3594.62 --> 3595.84] bound to sin, -[3595.90 --> 3596.52] but we are bound -[3596.52 --> 3597.10] to Christ. -[3597.10 --> 3598.10] Our position -[3598.10 --> 3599.54] has changed forever. -[3600.34 --> 3601.20] That's the clarity -[3601.20 --> 3601.84] Paul is bringing -[3601.84 --> 3602.80] to light to this church. -[3604.54 --> 3605.86] Now, this sanctification -[3605.86 --> 3607.10] is called -[3607.10 --> 3608.74] a definitive sanctification. -[3608.94 --> 3609.60] It's different than -[3609.60 --> 3611.16] progressive sanctification, -[3611.32 --> 3611.82] which is also -[3611.82 --> 3612.64] a very good thing, -[3612.76 --> 3613.56] but not the good thing -[3613.56 --> 3614.24] that Paul is talking -[3614.24 --> 3614.72] about here. -[3615.16 --> 3615.66] Picture this. -[3615.84 --> 3616.44] Stay with me here. -[3616.50 --> 3616.94] Picture this. -[3617.40 --> 3618.20] Pretend with me -[3618.20 --> 3618.80] for a second. -[3620.00 --> 3621.12] Pretend you're in prison. -[3621.12 --> 3623.74] You are bound -[3623.74 --> 3625.26] to the prison warden -[3625.26 --> 3626.20] because of the crime -[3626.20 --> 3626.94] that you have committed. -[3628.00 --> 3628.86] The prison -[3628.86 --> 3630.68] and the prison warden -[3630.68 --> 3632.26] controls and oversees -[3632.26 --> 3633.10] everything you do. -[3633.18 --> 3634.38] You are bound to him. -[3635.76 --> 3636.70] But then one day -[3636.70 --> 3637.14] you're freed. -[3638.30 --> 3639.36] The gates open -[3639.36 --> 3640.02] and you're released. -[3641.48 --> 3643.08] Your position changes. -[3644.36 --> 3645.20] You are free. -[3645.38 --> 3646.22] You're no longer -[3646.22 --> 3647.76] under the warden's control. -[3647.76 --> 3649.96] That's definitive -[3649.96 --> 3651.14] sanctification. -[3651.36 --> 3652.08] That's what Paul -[3652.08 --> 3653.10] is trying to make clear. -[3653.44 --> 3654.24] Your position -[3654.24 --> 3655.48] has changed forever. -[3656.68 --> 3657.64] Yes, you're free -[3657.64 --> 3658.48] from prison now -[3658.48 --> 3659.40] and now you must learn -[3659.40 --> 3659.90] how to live -[3659.90 --> 3660.82] as a free person -[3660.82 --> 3661.62] in society. -[3661.98 --> 3662.76] That process -[3662.76 --> 3663.74] is also happening -[3663.74 --> 3664.82] and that process -[3664.82 --> 3665.20] is called -[3665.20 --> 3666.42] progressive sanctification -[3666.42 --> 3667.14] where the Spirit -[3667.14 --> 3668.22] takes over -[3668.22 --> 3669.48] and makes us -[3669.48 --> 3670.26] more and more -[3670.26 --> 3670.98] Christ-like. -[3671.06 --> 3671.92] But you are free. -[3672.76 --> 3673.56] That is true. -[3673.70 --> 3674.74] Your positional standing -[3674.74 --> 3675.30] is clear. -[3675.70 --> 3676.46] You're out of prison. -[3676.56 --> 3677.32] There's no doubt -[3677.32 --> 3679.20] you are free. -[3680.60 --> 3681.96] Because of Christ -[3681.96 --> 3683.90] you are free. -[3684.92 --> 3686.00] You're no longer -[3686.00 --> 3686.72] bound to sin. -[3686.92 --> 3688.20] No longer bound to death. -[3688.36 --> 3689.68] Paul assures us -[3689.68 --> 3690.68] that we are sanctified -[3690.68 --> 3691.80] because of Christ. -[3692.96 --> 3693.98] And Paul gives -[3693.98 --> 3694.88] thanks for that. -[3694.98 --> 3695.76] For us too. -[3696.34 --> 3697.30] Just like we can -[3697.30 --> 3697.74] give thanks -[3697.74 --> 3698.46] for one another. -[3698.78 --> 3699.60] Because of what -[3699.60 --> 3700.48] Christ has done. -[3701.52 --> 3702.32] Because Jesus -[3702.32 --> 3704.16] lived a perfect life -[3704.16 --> 3704.90] that we failed -[3704.90 --> 3705.44] to live -[3705.44 --> 3706.14] and then he died -[3706.14 --> 3706.50] to death -[3706.50 --> 3707.72] that we all deserve. -[3708.66 --> 3709.76] But then three days later -[3709.76 --> 3710.76] Jesus rose again -[3710.76 --> 3711.30] from the dead -[3711.30 --> 3712.20] defeating sin -[3712.20 --> 3713.10] and death. -[3716.30 --> 3717.64] He's chosen you. -[3718.94 --> 3719.94] Because of all -[3719.94 --> 3720.72] that Jesus did -[3720.72 --> 3721.56] he chose you. -[3721.96 --> 3722.62] You are free. -[3723.04 --> 3724.26] This releases us -[3724.26 --> 3725.90] from the distraction -[3725.90 --> 3727.34] of our uncertain futures. -[3728.18 --> 3729.68] This clarifies -[3729.68 --> 3730.72] our standing -[3730.72 --> 3731.58] in God's eyes. -[3731.90 --> 3732.76] We are liberated. -[3732.76 --> 3734.26] We have been released -[3734.26 --> 3735.02] from captivity. -[3735.54 --> 3736.82] We are not our own -[3736.82 --> 3737.76] but we belong -[3737.76 --> 3738.86] body and soul -[3738.86 --> 3740.26] in life and in death -[3740.26 --> 3741.38] to our faithful Savior -[3741.38 --> 3742.24] Jesus Christ. -[3742.44 --> 3743.46] He has fully paid -[3743.46 --> 3744.64] for all of our sins -[3744.64 --> 3746.22] with his precious blood -[3746.22 --> 3748.10] and he has set us free -[3748.10 --> 3748.84] from the power -[3748.84 --> 3749.36] of the devil -[3749.36 --> 3750.74] by his Holy Spirit. -[3751.28 --> 3752.84] We are assured. -[3754.16 --> 3755.62] He makes clear to us -[3755.62 --> 3756.82] our eternal life -[3756.82 --> 3758.88] and makes us heartily willing -[3758.88 --> 3760.44] and ready from now on -[3760.44 --> 3761.08] to live for him. -[3762.46 --> 3764.56] And that clarity -[3764.56 --> 3766.42] cuts through the confusion. -[3769.68 --> 3772.08] Now when we suffer -[3772.08 --> 3774.52] we know we will be healed -[3774.52 --> 3775.46] one day -[3775.46 --> 3777.08] either here and now -[3777.08 --> 3778.18] in this broken world -[3778.18 --> 3779.64] or later with Christ -[3779.64 --> 3780.66] on the new earth. -[3781.96 --> 3783.34] Now when we grieve -[3783.34 --> 3784.34] the loss of those -[3784.34 --> 3785.30] who loved the Lord -[3785.30 --> 3786.58] we can look forward -[3786.58 --> 3787.68] with clarity -[3787.68 --> 3789.36] that they too -[3789.36 --> 3790.50] belong to Jesus -[3790.50 --> 3791.62] in this life -[3791.62 --> 3792.16] and the next. -[3793.40 --> 3794.50] When we pray -[3794.50 --> 3795.76] for those who do not -[3795.76 --> 3796.30] know the Lord -[3796.30 --> 3797.14] we can pray -[3797.14 --> 3798.12] clearly -[3798.12 --> 3799.60] and boldly -[3799.60 --> 3800.92] and preach the gospel -[3800.92 --> 3801.54] to them -[3801.54 --> 3802.40] with conviction -[3802.40 --> 3803.46] because we know -[3803.46 --> 3804.84] that it's the Holy Spirit -[3804.84 --> 3806.20] that softens hearts. -[3807.64 --> 3809.12] And we can rejoice -[3809.12 --> 3809.72] in victories. -[3809.86 --> 3810.48] We can boast -[3810.48 --> 3811.28] in the Lord -[3811.28 --> 3812.76] for all he has done. -[3812.76 --> 3816.48] whenever life's challenges -[3816.48 --> 3817.44] get thrown our way -[3817.44 --> 3818.30] we can mourn -[3818.30 --> 3819.32] and we can grieve -[3819.32 --> 3820.16] and we can lament -[3820.16 --> 3821.70] and we can even be angry. -[3822.88 --> 3824.16] But we can do so -[3824.16 --> 3825.00] with clarity -[3825.00 --> 3826.40] because God -[3826.40 --> 3827.62] has us. -[3829.12 --> 3830.02] We are -[3830.02 --> 3830.66] his -[3830.66 --> 3831.98] clearly. -[3834.90 --> 3836.14] The Thessalonian church -[3836.14 --> 3837.08] didn't need certainty -[3837.08 --> 3838.02] they needed clarity. -[3838.42 --> 3839.24] They were concerned -[3839.24 --> 3840.44] about the when -[3840.44 --> 3841.72] of Christ's return. -[3841.72 --> 3842.98] what exactly -[3842.98 --> 3843.78] the Antichrist -[3843.78 --> 3844.26] would look like -[3844.26 --> 3846.16] and how the great rebellion -[3846.16 --> 3846.94] would unfold -[3846.94 --> 3848.00] to the world around them. -[3848.04 --> 3848.54] They were hoping -[3848.54 --> 3849.40] for a road map. -[3850.52 --> 3851.04] But Paul doesn't -[3851.04 --> 3851.56] give them that. -[3852.28 --> 3853.60] He doesn't unravel -[3853.60 --> 3855.08] the mysteries of God. -[3855.26 --> 3855.72] How could he? -[3855.78 --> 3857.18] God is far too big -[3857.18 --> 3857.78] to be condensed -[3857.78 --> 3858.70] onto a road map. -[3859.94 --> 3860.68] We don't know -[3860.68 --> 3861.24] all the details. -[3861.66 --> 3862.12] We don't know -[3862.12 --> 3863.08] about when Christ will come. -[3863.18 --> 3863.96] Matthew 24 -[3863.96 --> 3865.48] But concerning that day -[3865.48 --> 3865.94] and hour -[3865.94 --> 3866.60] no one knows -[3866.60 --> 3867.88] not even the angels -[3867.88 --> 3868.36] of heaven -[3868.36 --> 3869.32] nor the Son -[3869.32 --> 3870.94] but the Father only. -[3871.72 --> 3873.36] Instead -[3873.36 --> 3874.28] Paul points -[3874.28 --> 3874.88] this church -[3874.88 --> 3875.44] back to what -[3875.44 --> 3876.58] they already knew -[3876.58 --> 3879.30] and what really matters -[3879.30 --> 3880.88] that they belong -[3880.88 --> 3881.72] to God. -[3882.26 --> 3882.90] Their standing -[3882.90 --> 3883.52] in Christ -[3883.52 --> 3884.80] is secure. -[3886.46 --> 3887.44] And sometimes -[3887.44 --> 3888.72] the most pastoral thing -[3888.72 --> 3889.58] we can all do -[3889.58 --> 3890.32] for one another -[3890.32 --> 3891.20] is not -[3891.20 --> 3892.76] hand out road maps -[3892.76 --> 3894.06] or try to figure out -[3894.06 --> 3895.02] the certainties -[3895.02 --> 3897.24] but remind -[3897.24 --> 3898.24] one another -[3898.24 --> 3900.78] of the unshakable truth -[3900.78 --> 3902.98] that we are His. -[3904.32 --> 3905.36] Provide clarity. -[3907.66 --> 3908.36] You'll notice -[3908.36 --> 3908.94] Paul's actually -[3908.94 --> 3909.60] really brief -[3909.60 --> 3910.32] in this passage -[3910.32 --> 3911.84] and that's intentional. -[3912.12 --> 3912.52] He had already -[3912.52 --> 3913.42] taught them these things. -[3914.18 --> 3915.00] He had written -[3915.00 --> 3915.56] to them before. -[3915.66 --> 3916.26] He had instructed -[3916.26 --> 3916.92] them in person. -[3917.26 --> 3917.90] They weren't hearing -[3917.90 --> 3918.90] this for the first time. -[3919.02 --> 3919.50] They just needed -[3919.50 --> 3920.16] to hear it again. -[3921.46 --> 3922.22] And honestly -[3922.22 --> 3923.20] isn't that true for us? -[3923.20 --> 3924.20] How many of us -[3924.20 --> 3925.18] need to be reminded -[3925.18 --> 3926.52] instead of re-taught? -[3926.88 --> 3927.80] I know a lot of us -[3927.80 --> 3928.64] have grown up here -[3928.64 --> 3930.10] hearing about God's love, -[3930.52 --> 3931.58] hearing about His promises, -[3931.74 --> 3932.66] our identity in Christ, -[3932.72 --> 3934.28] but life fogs it up. -[3935.30 --> 3936.52] Confusion can creep in. -[3937.30 --> 3938.24] The noise of the world -[3938.24 --> 3938.78] turns up -[3938.78 --> 3939.32] and so God -[3939.32 --> 3939.94] in His kindness -[3939.94 --> 3941.18] often sends someone -[3941.18 --> 3941.84] like Paul -[3941.84 --> 3942.86] to pull us aside -[3942.86 --> 3943.08] and say, -[3943.16 --> 3944.06] you know this. -[3945.06 --> 3946.24] Now remember it. -[3947.52 --> 3948.24] Live it. -[3951.60 --> 3952.76] And there's also -[3952.76 --> 3954.12] some of us -[3954.12 --> 3954.64] who don't know -[3954.64 --> 3955.42] this truth yet. -[3956.26 --> 3957.32] Some of us here today -[3957.32 --> 3958.50] are wondering -[3958.50 --> 3960.20] or you're curious. -[3960.68 --> 3961.34] You're looking -[3961.34 --> 3962.48] for certainties. -[3963.92 --> 3964.96] And if that's you, -[3965.04 --> 3965.72] I invite you -[3965.72 --> 3966.54] keep wondering. -[3967.10 --> 3968.74] Keep continuing -[3968.74 --> 3969.86] in your curiosity. -[3970.82 --> 3971.70] But don't look -[3971.70 --> 3972.44] for certainties -[3972.44 --> 3973.02] where mysteries -[3973.02 --> 3973.58] are concerned. -[3973.70 --> 3973.96] Instead, -[3974.36 --> 3975.58] hold up the gospel -[3975.58 --> 3977.08] in your hearts. -[3977.78 --> 3978.40] Ask yourself, -[3978.68 --> 3979.44] is Jesus -[3979.44 --> 3981.52] who He says He is? -[3981.52 --> 3983.18] Did He really do -[3983.18 --> 3984.04] what He said He did? -[3984.88 --> 3985.88] Are these people -[3985.88 --> 3986.76] here in this room -[3986.76 --> 3987.16] right now -[3987.16 --> 3988.18] really saved -[3988.18 --> 3989.10] because of the work -[3989.10 --> 3989.90] of Jesus only? -[3993.04 --> 3994.46] Are they really free? -[3995.64 --> 3996.78] Are they really released -[3996.78 --> 3997.44] from captivity? -[3997.98 --> 3998.70] Is it that simple? -[4000.18 --> 4000.90] I pray -[4000.90 --> 4001.90] that if that is you, -[4001.94 --> 4002.78] you find clarity -[4002.78 --> 4003.30] of heart -[4003.30 --> 4004.14] to see Jesus -[4004.14 --> 4005.10] more clearly today. -[4006.14 --> 4007.10] Because once -[4007.10 --> 4008.88] that revelatory truth -[4008.88 --> 4009.82] creeps into your heart, -[4009.82 --> 4010.80] it changes everything. -[4013.52 --> 4014.60] So there's the clarity -[4014.60 --> 4015.66] for our minds today. -[4015.76 --> 4016.34] There's the clarity -[4016.34 --> 4017.44] for our hearts today. -[4017.50 --> 4018.22] But what does that mean -[4018.22 --> 4018.86] for our hands? -[4018.92 --> 4019.92] Where do we go -[4019.92 --> 4021.22] with this newfound -[4021.22 --> 4022.82] or perhaps more appropriately, -[4023.34 --> 4025.38] this newly reminded clarity? -[4026.18 --> 4027.58] If we are truly secure, -[4027.94 --> 4029.02] if we are truly loved -[4029.02 --> 4029.86] and chosen and called, -[4029.92 --> 4031.26] if our standing before God -[4031.26 --> 4032.28] is not in doubt, -[4033.08 --> 4033.94] then what do we do? -[4035.72 --> 4038.00] Paul does tell us that -[4038.00 --> 4039.64] in verse 15 of our text. -[4040.62 --> 4042.18] We go in boldness. -[4042.98 --> 4044.12] We stand firm. -[4044.20 --> 4045.70] We hold to the teachings -[4045.70 --> 4046.66] we've received. -[4046.84 --> 4047.74] We live lives -[4047.74 --> 4049.28] that reflect the truth -[4049.28 --> 4050.12] that we've been given. -[4050.58 --> 4052.16] That means showing up in love, -[4052.82 --> 4054.02] holding fast to grace, -[4054.34 --> 4055.20] speaking the truth -[4055.20 --> 4056.44] in both boldness -[4056.44 --> 4057.70] and in kindness -[4057.70 --> 4058.98] with courage. -[4059.66 --> 4061.42] That means we gather together. -[4061.56 --> 4062.92] We grow in faith -[4062.92 --> 4064.42] and we go out with purpose. -[4064.42 --> 4066.92] We don't do that -[4066.92 --> 4067.50] because we're trying -[4067.50 --> 4068.52] to prove anything -[4068.52 --> 4069.84] or earn something, -[4070.02 --> 4071.28] but because we already -[4071.28 --> 4073.02] know who we are. -[4073.38 --> 4074.50] That much is clear. -[4076.44 --> 4077.78] And here's the last -[4077.78 --> 4078.56] beautiful thing. -[4079.68 --> 4080.84] When we rest -[4080.84 --> 4081.54] in that clarity, -[4082.24 --> 4083.92] when we anchor ourselves -[4083.92 --> 4085.92] in the who -[4085.92 --> 4087.04] that is true -[4087.04 --> 4087.74] and unchanging, -[4088.74 --> 4090.04] the panic -[4090.04 --> 4091.28] we start to feel -[4091.28 --> 4092.70] about life's uncertainties -[4092.70 --> 4094.80] begins to just quiet a little. -[4096.14 --> 4097.74] The need for control, -[4098.24 --> 4099.76] the thirst for answers, -[4099.92 --> 4100.50] the stress -[4100.50 --> 4101.94] over every what if, -[4102.66 --> 4104.00] all of that just starts -[4104.00 --> 4105.10] to loosen its grip. -[4106.56 --> 4107.92] Because we know -[4107.92 --> 4109.02] the one -[4109.02 --> 4110.50] who holds our future. -[4111.78 --> 4113.00] We're clear -[4113.00 --> 4114.14] on where we stand. -[4115.12 --> 4115.94] We're clear -[4115.94 --> 4117.18] on who we belong to -[4117.18 --> 4118.94] and what's awaiting for us. -[4118.94 --> 4121.84] So whether we're laughing -[4121.84 --> 4122.72] or we're grieving, -[4123.32 --> 4124.22] whether we're healthy -[4124.22 --> 4125.02] or we're hurting, -[4125.72 --> 4126.62] whether we're certainly -[4126.62 --> 4128.50] confused or confusingly certain, -[4129.48 --> 4131.32] we can walk forward -[4131.32 --> 4132.28] without fear. -[4132.54 --> 4133.22] Not because -[4133.22 --> 4134.18] all the details -[4134.18 --> 4134.72] are certain, -[4136.00 --> 4136.58] but because of -[4136.58 --> 4137.82] the most important thing. -[4138.32 --> 4140.24] We are God's. -[4140.98 --> 4142.16] By remembering -[4142.16 --> 4143.70] that God-given identity -[4143.70 --> 4145.50] and God's sure calling -[4145.50 --> 4146.20] on our lives, -[4146.20 --> 4147.66] we are set free -[4147.66 --> 4149.28] to stand firm -[4149.28 --> 4150.50] and live boldly. -[4150.60 --> 4151.22] So Emmanuel, -[4151.94 --> 4153.60] may our Lord Jesus Christ -[4153.60 --> 4154.18] himself -[4154.18 --> 4156.46] and God our Father -[4156.46 --> 4157.98] who loved us -[4157.98 --> 4159.10] and by his grace -[4159.10 --> 4159.84] gave us -[4159.84 --> 4160.96] eternal encouragement -[4160.96 --> 4161.66] and good hope -[4161.66 --> 4164.68] encourage your hearts -[4164.68 --> 4166.26] and strengthen you -[4166.26 --> 4168.94] in every good deed -[4168.94 --> 4169.90] and word. -[4170.62 --> 4170.88] Amen. -[4171.66 --> 4172.60] Please pray with me. -[4172.60 --> 4172.66] Amen. -[4172.66 --> 4176.78] Father God, -[4177.56 --> 4180.82] in many areas of life -[4180.82 --> 4183.64] we need you to encourage us. -[4184.02 --> 4185.40] In other areas of life -[4185.40 --> 4186.62] we need conviction. -[4186.86 --> 4187.48] Sometimes we need -[4187.48 --> 4188.54] a good kick in the pants. -[4190.00 --> 4190.62] But God, -[4190.86 --> 4192.68] what we all certainly need -[4192.68 --> 4194.92] is just a little bit of clarity. -[4194.92 --> 4198.20] may you -[4198.20 --> 4200.52] and your truth -[4200.52 --> 4203.24] permeate our hearts. -[4204.14 --> 4205.20] May we know -[4205.20 --> 4206.34] to our core -[4206.34 --> 4207.52] that we are saved. -[4208.92 --> 4210.08] That you have -[4210.08 --> 4211.06] claimed us -[4211.06 --> 4211.90] as your own -[4211.90 --> 4215.96] and that we belong to you -[4215.96 --> 4217.94] in life and in death -[4217.94 --> 4219.68] with purpose -[4219.68 --> 4220.42] and value. -[4221.52 --> 4222.06] God, -[4222.12 --> 4222.82] if this is a message -[4222.82 --> 4224.20] we've heard a thousand times, -[4224.20 --> 4225.72] may it sink -[4225.72 --> 4226.64] a little deeper today. -[4227.68 --> 4228.70] If this is a message -[4228.70 --> 4229.06] we've heard -[4229.06 --> 4230.02] for the first time, -[4231.08 --> 4232.08] may we investigate -[4232.08 --> 4232.98] a little bit further. -[4234.38 --> 4234.72] And God, -[4234.78 --> 4235.40] may we all -[4235.40 --> 4236.04] in this room -[4236.04 --> 4236.62] and beyond -[4236.62 --> 4237.94] know your love, -[4238.38 --> 4239.16] know your grace -[4239.16 --> 4240.38] and live that out -[4240.38 --> 4241.44] in the world around us. -[4241.88 --> 4242.58] We pray this -[4242.58 --> 4243.20] in your son's -[4243.20 --> 4244.42] precious and holy name. -[4244.90 --> 4245.10] Amen. -[4245.10 --> 4245.20] Amen. -[4254.20 --> 4278.58] This my only comfort -[4278.58 --> 4279.58] is a blessing. -[4279.58 --> 4280.40] I am not my own, -[4280.40 --> 4282.06] but belong. -[4282.06 --> 4284.78] You have fully paid -[4284.78 --> 4286.40] for all my sins -[4286.40 --> 4288.26] and all my death. -[4288.80 --> 4291.24] Even when I struggle -[4291.24 --> 4293.06] to believe, -[4295.06 --> 4297.32] with your precious blood -[4297.32 --> 4299.10] you set me free. -[4299.10 --> 4305.42] I am not my own, -[4305.42 --> 4307.88] but belong, -[4309.30 --> 4311.42] body and soul, -[4312.42 --> 4315.06] in my life -[4315.06 --> 4317.42] and in death. -[4317.42 --> 4320.04] to you, -[4320.04 --> 4321.24] Lord, -[4321.68 --> 4325.52] Christ my Lord. -[4325.98 --> 4328.26] You preserve my life -[4328.26 --> 4329.60] in such a way -[4329.60 --> 4331.38] that without you, -[4332.10 --> 4334.00] not a hair can fall -[4334.00 --> 4334.86] from me -[4334.86 --> 4337.26] unless you will it too. -[4338.06 --> 4340.18] Even when I'm lost -[4340.18 --> 4342.70] in desperation, -[4342.70 --> 4346.26] all things work together -[4346.26 --> 4348.78] for my salvation. -[4349.98 --> 4354.16] I am not my own, -[4354.54 --> 4356.40] but belong, -[4357.84 --> 4360.40] body and soul, -[4360.80 --> 4363.40] in my life -[4363.40 --> 4366.40] and in death. -[4366.40 --> 4368.26] To you, -[4368.46 --> 4369.46] Lord, -[4369.86 --> 4372.40] Christ my Lord. -[4372.70 --> 4399.56] always by your Holy Spirit -[4399.56 --> 4401.26] you assure me -[4401.26 --> 4404.60] of eternal life -[4404.60 --> 4405.52] and make me -[4405.52 --> 4407.32] willing and ready -[4407.32 --> 4410.44] even when I can't -[4410.44 --> 4412.10] see my way through. -[4413.94 --> 4415.46] From now on -[4415.46 --> 4417.88] to always live for you. -[4421.42 --> 4425.36] I am not my own, -[4425.36 --> 4427.64] but belong, -[4427.64 --> 4431.98] body and soul, -[4431.98 --> 4432.98] in my life -[4432.98 --> 4436.98] and in death. -[4436.98 --> 4437.98] To you, -[4437.98 --> 4439.92] Lord, -[4440.32 --> 4443.74] Christ my Lord. -[4443.98 --> 4448.24] I am not my own, -[4448.70 --> 4450.40] but belong, -[4450.40 --> 4451.74] body and soul, -[4451.74 --> 4453.74] body and soul, -[4453.74 --> 4455.74] in my life -[4455.74 --> 4456.74] and in death. -[4456.74 --> 4457.74] In my life -[4457.74 --> 4458.74] and in death. -[4458.74 --> 4459.74] In my life, -[4459.74 --> 4460.74] and in death, -[4460.74 --> 4461.74] to you, -[4461.74 --> 4462.74] Lord, -[4462.74 --> 4466.74] Christ my Lord. -[4466.74 --> 4468.08] Lord, -[4468.08 --> 4471.08] I am not my own, -[4471.08 --> 4472.08] I am not my own, -[4472.08 --> 4474.08] but belong, -[4474.08 --> 4477.08] body and soul, -[4477.08 --> 4480.08] in my life, -[4480.08 --> 4483.08] and in death. -[4483.08 --> 4485.08] To you, -[4485.08 --> 4486.08] Lord, -[4486.08 --> 4490.08] Christ my Lord. -[4490.08 --> 4505.30] Amen. -[4507.42 --> 4509.00] If you are looking for prayer this morning, -[4509.08 --> 4510.96] there will be prayer people available here at the front, -[4511.02 --> 4512.02] I think in the back as well, -[4512.08 --> 4513.02] with a yellow name tag. -[4513.10 --> 4515.80] Feel free to approach any of them for prayer today, -[4515.92 --> 4518.10] or anybody else in this church as well. -[4518.10 --> 4520.08] And as we go from this place, -[4520.14 --> 4521.26] we go out with a purpose. -[4521.40 --> 4522.68] We go out with clarity. -[4522.90 --> 4524.72] We know who we belong to. -[4525.36 --> 4527.98] So may we go out with this priestly blessing. -[4528.82 --> 4531.70] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[4532.18 --> 4534.70] The Lord make his face shine upon you -[4534.70 --> 4536.12] and be gracious to you. -[4536.50 --> 4538.92] The Lord turn his face toward you -[4538.92 --> 4541.54] and give you his peace. -[4541.92 --> 4544.12] And all of God's people said, -[4544.80 --> 4545.08] Amen. -[4548.10 --> 4561.44] God be the glory, -[4561.90 --> 4564.98] great things he has done. -[4564.98 --> 4567.98] So loved he the world, -[4568.76 --> 4571.98] God he gave us his son. -[4571.98 --> 4579.52] He healed in his life an atonement for sin, -[4579.52 --> 4586.74] and opened the life gate that all may go in. -[4586.74 --> 4590.42] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, -[4590.42 --> 4593.96] let the earth hear his voice. -[4593.96 --> 4597.42] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, -[4597.78 --> 4601.02] let the people rejoice. -[4601.02 --> 4604.50] O come to the Father, -[4604.50 --> 4607.82] through Jesus the Son, -[4607.82 --> 4611.50] and give him the glory, -[4611.94 --> 4615.56] great things he has done. -[4616.02 --> 4620.16] O perfect redemption, -[4620.74 --> 4623.58] the purchase of God, -[4623.78 --> 4626.96] to every believer, -[4626.96 --> 4630.44] the promise of God. -[4630.44 --> 4633.88] The vilest offender, -[4633.88 --> 4637.22] who truly believes, -[4637.22 --> 4640.60] that moment from Jesus, -[4640.60 --> 4643.44] the pardon receives. -[4643.44 --> 4647.44] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, -[4647.44 --> 4650.78] let the earth hear his voice. -[4650.88 --> 4654.16] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, -[4654.16 --> 4657.64] let the people rejoice. -[4657.64 --> 4660.90] O come to the Father, -[4660.90 --> 4664.08] through Jesus the Son, -[4664.08 --> 4667.64] and give him the glory, -[4667.64 --> 4671.34] great things he has done. -[4672.64 --> 4676.38] Great things he has taught us, -[4676.46 --> 4679.24] great things he has done, -[4679.24 --> 4682.72] and great our rejoicing, -[4682.72 --> 4685.78] through Jesus the Son. -[4685.78 --> 4689.16] The pure and higher, -[4689.16 --> 4692.38] and greater will be, -[4692.72 --> 4695.78] our wonder, our transport, -[4696.02 --> 4698.78] when Jesus we see. -[4699.04 --> 4702.10] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, -[4702.10 --> 4705.36] let the earth hear his voice. -[4705.72 --> 4708.54] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, -[4708.54 --> 4711.74] let the people rejoice. -[4711.74 --> 4715.02] O come to the Father, -[4715.02 --> 4718.02] through Jesus the Son, -[4718.24 --> 4721.68] and give him the glory, -[4722.02 --> 4726.36] great things he has done. -[4726.36 --> 4730.88] Father, -[4730.88 --> 4733.14] for wrestling. -[4733.16 --> 4734.58] Our praise the Lord, -[4734.58 --> 4735.70] and Yoganda areiti約. -[4736.24 --> 4740.12] May our faith and glory stay with him. -[4740.14 --> 4742.78] Lord, bless why Área has feasibility -[4742.78 --> 4747.06] With all of us dwell together. -[4747.06 --> 4749.08] Bei our faith and love, -[4749.08 --> 4751.42] pentru cu toit Mucha Resує, -[4751.42 --> 4781.40] Thank you. -[4781.42 --> 4811.40] Thank you. -[4811.42 --> 4812.04] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, June 16, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, June 16, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f7406fa23de69a88d386a8014ba6eeb8fa5a92a5..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, June 16, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,30 +0,0 @@ -• Belonging to God, body and soul -• Singing a loud hallelujah in the midst of storm and unbelief -• Hope arising from darkness and doubt, with death defeated and the King alive -• Coming to find mercy and satisfaction at the table of Jesus' goodness -• Bringing failures and addictions to lay them down at the cross -• God's love and sacrifice for humanity through His one and only Son -• Recitation of John 3:16 -• Welcome and greetings to attendees on Father's Day -• Mission trip update from Philippines (returnees) -• Announcement of pancake breakfast fundraiser for Mexico mission trip -• Upcoming events: - + Council meeting on Tuesday - + Reactivate sign-up - + Potential new churches participating in Reactivate event - + Food drive and community day on July 12th -• Inviting the congregation to worship and welcome each other -• Reciting a prayer or song of praise (Great is Thy Faithfulness) -• Expressing gratitude for God's presence, peace, and guidance -• Asking forgiveness for unfaithfulness and requesting help in bringing it before God -• Seeking to open hearts to God and cry out for help in times of despair and darkness -• Praying for healing and opening hearts to God -• Singing scripture from Psalm 130, focusing on forgiveness and hope in God's word -• Recognizing God's faithfulness and unfailing love -• Praising God as the same today as He was in the past -• Collecting a special offering for the church's outreach arm, Resonate, specifically to purchase a new land cruiser for the CRC church in Sierra Leone -• Sharing about Reverend Moses from Sierra Leone and the need for a new vehicle to reach remote areas -• CRC in Sierra Leone funding -• Upcoming graduation ceremony -• Travel or presence at an event or location -• Speaking at a gathering or meeting \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, June 16, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, June 16, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a2a4dee5bf210b311289c74f4b64fc38cb1d8783..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, June 16, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,383 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 5.58] From now on to always live for you, oh. -[9.42 --> 21.20] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul. -[21.20 --> 37.20] In my life and in death to you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[37.20 --> 50.08] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul. -[50.08 --> 66.08] In my life and in death to you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[66.08 --> 78.08] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul. -[78.08 --> 94.08] In my life and in death to you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[94.08 --> 96.08] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul. -[96.08 --> 100.08] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul. -[100.08 --> 106.08] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul. -[106.08 --> 110.08] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul. -[110.08 --> 120.08] I am not my own, but belong, body and soul. -[120.08 --> 122.08] It's quiet and is sobbing lên this night. -[122.08 --> 124.08] I'm not my own, but belong. -[124.08 --> 133.20] I raise a hallelujah, louder than the unbelief. -[135.20 --> 144.20] I raise a hallelujah, my weapon is a melody. -[144.20 --> 156.88] I raise a hallelujah, heaven comes to fight for me. -[159.02 --> 167.40] I'm gonna sing in the middle of the storm, louder and louder. -[167.40 --> 173.46] You're gonna hear my praises roar, up from the ashes. -[174.20 --> 181.88] Hope will arise, doubt is defeated, the King is alive. -[190.84 --> 200.16] I raise a hallelujah, with everything inside of me. -[200.16 --> 211.84] I raise a hallelujah, I will watch the darkness bleed. -[211.84 --> 223.36] I raise a hallelujah, in the middle of the mystery. -[223.36 --> 235.04] I raise a hallelujah, I will watch the hallelujah. -[235.04 --> 237.04] I raise a hallelujah, I will watch the hallelujah. -[237.04 --> 248.72] I raise a hallelujah, I will watch the hallelujah, I will watch the hallelujah. -[248.72 --> 258.40] I raise a hallelujah, I will watch the hallelujah. -[258.40 --> 264.08] I raise a hallelujah, I will watch the hallelujah. -[264.08 --> 270.08] I raise a hallelujah, I will watch the hallelujah. -[270.08 --> 272.44] Sing a little louder -[272.44 --> 276.44] Louder than the unbelief -[276.44 --> 278.30] Sing a little louder -[278.30 --> 281.94] My weapon is a melody -[281.94 --> 284.08] Sing a little louder -[284.08 --> 288.12] Heaven comes to fight for me -[288.12 --> 290.08] Sing a little louder -[290.08 --> 294.08] In the presence of my enemies -[294.08 --> 296.08] Sing a little louder -[296.08 --> 299.08] Louder than the unbelief -[299.08 --> 301.08] Sing a little louder -[301.08 --> 305.08] My weapon is a melody -[305.08 --> 307.08] Sing a little louder -[307.08 --> 311.08] Heaven comes to fight for me -[311.08 --> 313.08] Sing a little louder -[313.08 --> 317.08] I'm gonna sing -[317.08 --> 319.08] In the middle of the storm -[319.08 --> 321.08] Louder and louder -[321.08 --> 325.08] You gotta hear my praises roar -[325.08 --> 327.08] Up from the ashes -[327.08 --> 329.08] Hope will arise -[329.08 --> 331.08] Hope will arise -[331.08 --> 333.08] Death is defeated -[333.08 --> 337.08] The King is alive -[337.08 --> 339.08] I'm gonna sing -[339.08 --> 341.08] I'm gonna sing -[341.08 --> 343.08] I'm gonna sing -[343.08 --> 345.08] I'm gonna sing -[345.08 --> 347.08] I'm gonna sing -[347.08 --> 351.08] I'm gonna sing -[351.08 --> 353.08] I'm gonna sing -[353.08 --> 357.08] I'm gonna sing -[357.08 --> 359.08] I'm gonna sing -[359.08 --> 361.08] I'm gonna sing -[361.08 --> 363.08] I'm gonna sing -[363.08 --> 367.08] I'm gonna sing -[367.08 --> 369.08] I'm gonna sing -[369.08 --> 371.08] I'm gonna sing -[371.08 --> 373.08] I'm gonna sing -[373.08 --> 375.08] I'm gonna sing -[375.08 --> 377.08] I'm gonna sing -[377.08 --> 381.08] I'm gonna sing -[381.08 --> 383.08] and thirst no more -[387.64 --> 399.64] come all you sinners come find his mercy come to the table he will satisfy taste of his goodness -[399.64 --> 401.96] find what you're looking for -[401.96 --> 409.96] oh -[409.96 --> 411.96] he gave us -[411.96 --> 415.96] his one and only son to save us -[415.96 --> 419.96] whoever believes in him -[419.96 --> 429.96] will live forever -[431.96 --> 433.96] oh -[445.96 --> 449.96] bring all your failures bring your addictions -[449.96 --> 453.96] come lay them down at the foot of the cross -[453.96 --> 460.96] Jesus is waiting there with open arms. -[460.96 --> 463.96] His open arms. -[463.96 --> 468.96] For God so loved the world that he gave us. -[468.96 --> 473.96] His one and only Son to save us. -[473.96 --> 480.96] Whoever believes in him will live forever. -[480.96 --> 486.96] The power of hell forever defeated. -[486.96 --> 489.96] Now it is wealth. -[489.96 --> 491.96] I'm walking in freedom. -[491.96 --> 494.96] For God so loved. -[494.96 --> 498.96] God so loved the world. -[498.96 --> 505.96] Praise God. Praise God. -[505.96 --> 520.96] Praise Him. Praise Him. -[520.96 --> 526.96] Praise God. Praise God. -[526.96 --> 529.62] whom all blessings flow. -[531.00 --> 532.30] Praise Him. -[533.30 --> 534.70] Praise Him. -[535.80 --> 539.70] For the wonders of His world. -[540.64 --> 542.84] His amazing love. -[543.44 --> 548.04] For God so loved the world that He gave us. -[548.04 --> 552.56] His one and only son to say. -[553.02 --> 556.92] For God so loved the world that He gave us. -[556.96 --> 562.20] His one and only son to say. -[562.20 --> 565.70] For God so loved the world that He gave us. -[565.70 --> 568.70] He will live forever. -[568.70 --> 571.70] Give it all for you to be. -[571.70 --> 576.62] The power of hell forever to be. -[576.62 --> 579.02] Now it is well. -[579.02 --> 583.86] I walk in freedom for God so loved. -[583.86 --> 587.60] God so loved the world. -[587.60 --> 590.60] God so loved the world. -[590.60 --> 592.60] God so loved the world. -[592.60 --> 594.34] He will give you. -[594.34 --> 595.40] Bring all your failures. -[595.40 --> 596.34] Bring your addictions. -[596.34 --> 601.18] Come lay them down at the foot of the cross. -[601.18 --> 603.64] Jesus is waiting. -[603.64 --> 606.04] God so loved the world. -[606.04 --> 610.94] God so loved the world. -[610.94 --> 640.38] Good morning, everyone. -[640.94 --> 644.92] Good morning, everyone. -[647.02 --> 649.72] Happy Father's Day to everyone here today. -[649.84 --> 653.00] If you are celebrating Father's Day, this is a celebratory day. -[653.36 --> 654.64] We rejoice with you. -[654.96 --> 657.14] A special welcome to all the dads here as well. -[657.38 --> 660.10] If you're grieving on Father's Day, we also grieve with you. -[660.14 --> 662.60] We know that this day can be very hard for many people as well. -[663.22 --> 667.06] And so this community is here praying and grieving alongside of you too. -[667.06 --> 673.38] And of course, today is the day that we want to really remember God's good love, our Holy Father's love for us. -[673.42 --> 676.48] So may that be something that we remember and cherish this day as well. -[676.86 --> 677.96] My name is Kevin Lobert. -[678.00 --> 680.40] I'm the youth pastor here at Langley Emanuel CRC. -[680.74 --> 682.14] It's good to see you all here today. -[682.38 --> 684.36] Just a couple of announcements before we begin. -[684.36 --> 689.24] I'm actually going to invite right now, Josh Chamberlain's going to make his way forward. -[689.30 --> 690.82] But I'm also going to invite Jared Okima. -[691.44 --> 693.10] And Sarah's on the piano. -[693.16 --> 693.94] You're going to stand up, Sarah. -[694.02 --> 695.26] And I'm not sure if McKelty made it in. -[695.26 --> 696.08] I know she had a cold. -[696.82 --> 697.58] Did she make it back? -[697.64 --> 697.78] No. -[697.86 --> 698.64] She's homesick. -[698.64 --> 705.76] But these three just landed back in the country last night from the Philippines. -[705.98 --> 706.90] They were there for two weeks. -[707.48 --> 708.76] And so we welcome them back. -[709.34 --> 711.36] We welcome McKelty back too. -[712.34 --> 714.58] And then they've got an announcement for us as well. -[715.38 --> 715.98] Hello. -[716.34 --> 719.66] So normally we only do missions trips to Mexico. -[719.90 --> 723.42] And after that we have a little luncheon. -[723.42 --> 727.96] And then everybody gets to hear all the great stories from the youth that went to Mexico. -[728.64 --> 730.78] Well, there's no youth and there's no Mexico. -[730.78 --> 736.86] But you can still come hear our stories at a pancake breakfast on the 29th of June. -[737.28 --> 739.94] At about 7.30 the doors will be open. -[740.18 --> 741.18] We'll have pancakes ready. -[741.66 --> 745.62] And then we'll, after everybody's eaten, we'll share the stories before church. -[746.36 --> 747.88] So please come join us. -[748.06 --> 750.64] Also it's a fundraiser because we had to do our fundraising after the fact. -[752.42 --> 754.08] Because Mexico takes precedent. -[754.54 --> 757.48] So bring your toonies. -[758.64 --> 759.76] All right. -[760.02 --> 760.66] Thank you, Mexico. -[760.76 --> 761.74] Another round of applause for them. -[761.80 --> 763.54] We'll get to hear about their trip soon. -[765.52 --> 767.28] Just a few more announcements right now. -[767.36 --> 768.80] On Tuesday we've got a council meeting. -[768.90 --> 773.36] So if you're a council member, Elder Deacon, please come on out to that Tuesday night. -[773.78 --> 775.30] We will look forward to seeing you there. -[776.20 --> 776.94] Reactivate sign up. -[776.94 --> 782.38] We are hosting Reactivate once again, technically the second weekend in September. -[782.50 --> 783.94] September 5, 6, and 7. -[784.48 --> 786.68] The volunteer sign up has come out. -[786.94 --> 788.86] And it has already started filling out, which is lovely. -[788.96 --> 792.22] But there are lots of places that are looking for some volunteers. -[792.44 --> 797.10] So if that's something that you're interested in, we need a lot of people to come make that weekend possible. -[797.10 --> 801.06] We are hearing of at least two new churches coming. -[801.20 --> 806.36] So that will bring the total up to over a dozen churches from BC coming this way with their youth. -[806.44 --> 807.24] So that's really exciting. -[807.34 --> 809.98] So please consider volunteering for that weekend as well. -[809.98 --> 821.24] And then finally, a save the date on Saturday, July 12th, we will be doing a food drive and community sort of fun day here at the church. -[821.24 --> 825.72] So that's Saturday, July 12th, in the morning, I believe. -[825.86 --> 829.52] So keep your eyes on the bulletin for more details to come about that. -[829.86 --> 835.52] And we look forward to that weekend as well where we invite the whole neighborhood here to bring in food for the food bank. -[836.00 --> 837.90] That's all of the announcements this morning. -[837.90 --> 842.30] I'm going to invite Pastor Chris forward, and he's going to do God's greeting for us today. -[847.06 --> 847.92] Thanks, Kevin. -[848.58 --> 854.10] Why don't we stand together as we usher into the presence of God today? -[856.46 --> 861.40] We gather in his presence, and we mark that presence by receiving his greeting. -[861.40 --> 869.96] So I invite you to open your heart, take a posture of receipt, and allow God's Spirit to wash over us in worship together. -[871.32 --> 874.60] Grace, mercy, and peace to you. -[875.08 --> 881.46] From God, our Father, from Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[882.32 --> 882.62] Amen. -[882.62 --> 887.50] As God has welcomed us, I invite you to turn to those around you and welcome them in our worship this morning. -[887.50 --> 887.56] Amen. -[887.56 --> 887.80] Amen. -[887.80 --> 887.86] Amen. -[887.86 --> 887.90] Amen. -[887.90 --> 888.02] Amen. -[888.02 --> 888.10] Amen. -[888.10 --> 888.46] Amen. -[888.46 --> 888.66] Amen. -[888.66 --> 888.72] Amen. -[912.62 --> 918.98] Amen. -[919.00 --> 920.40] Amen. -[920.40 --> 921.20] Amen. -[921.26 --> 922.18] Enjoy. -[923.18 --> 923.92] Amen. -[924.00 --> 926.10] Amen. -[928.66 --> 929.08] Amen. -[929.08 --> 930.78] Amen. -[930.78 --> 933.04] Amen. -[933.56 --> 934.16] Amen. -[934.36 --> 935.76] Amen. -[935.76 --> 939.22] Amen. -[939.22 --> 940.02] Amen. -[940.02 --> 940.44] Amen. -[940.44 --> 941.42] Amen. -[941.42 --> 941.64] Amen. -[941.64 --> 942.40] Amen. -[942.40 --> 942.44] Amen. -[942.44 --> 942.50] Amen. -[942.50 --> 942.58] Amen. -[942.58 --> 942.60] Amen. -[942.60 --> 943.60] Amen. -[972.60 --> 973.60] Amen. -[1002.60 --> 1010.34] Great is Thy faithfulness, great is Thy faithfulness. -[1010.34 --> 1018.10] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[1018.76 --> 1025.54] All I have needed, Thy hand hath provided. -[1025.54 --> 1034.10] Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[1036.68 --> 1044.16] Summer and winter and springtime and harvest. -[1044.86 --> 1051.80] Sun, moon, and stars in their courses above. -[1051.80 --> 1060.12] Joined with all nature in manifold witness. -[1060.56 --> 1068.16] To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and light. -[1068.80 --> 1076.12] Great is Thy faithfulness, great is Thy faithfulness. -[1076.12 --> 1083.12] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[1084.44 --> 1091.12] All I have needed, Thy hand hath provided. -[1092.30 --> 1098.80] Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[1098.80 --> 1108.80] God, Lord, for the peace that endured. -[1108.80 --> 1117.80] My own dear presence to cheer and to guide. -[1117.80 --> 1124.80] A strength, water, day, and my hope for tomorrow. -[1124.80 --> 1125.62] A strength, water, day, and my hope for tomorrow. -[1125.62 --> 1125.66] A strength, water, day, and my hope for tomorrow. -[1125.66 --> 1133.80] Blessings of my good and proud and proud and desire. -[1133.80 --> 1142.06] Great is Thy faithfulness, great is Thy faithfulness. -[1142.06 --> 1167.06] Lord, unto me. -[1167.78 --> 1169.06] The Son of His Basin, good and thấy, -[1169.06 --> 1170.90] Father's Podcast. -[1171.02 --> 1177.96] God's Word, Lord, unto me. -[1180.24 --> 1182.72] God is soit for God. -[1182.72 --> 1186.98] God isretρό, day, and My God is grateful. -[1187.74 --> 1189.90] God is step in theiri. -[1189.90 --> 1191.02] God is of sin. -[1191.02 --> 1192.96] God is suited for жизни,よろ quick is a storm quepleоном by 하면서 Serm arsenal, -[1193.06 --> 1194.06] which means that obedience to Charlotte. -[1194.06 --> 1196.06] Oh -[1224.06 --> 1226.06] Oh -[1254.06 --> 1256.06] Oh -[1284.06 --> 1286.06] Oh -[1314.06 --> 1316.06] Oh -[1344.06 --> 1346.06] Oh -[1374.06 --> 1376.06] Oh -[1376.74 --> 1378.74] Oh -[1394.58 --> 1396.58] Oh -[1401.46 --> 1403.46] I Grac A -[1404.06 --> 1420.10] Please join me in prayer. -[1427.10 --> 1428.02] Heavenly Father, -[1428.66 --> 1433.58] we come before you to praise your great name, -[1433.58 --> 1435.50] great is thy faithfulness. -[1435.92 --> 1438.64] There is no shadow of turning with thee. -[1438.78 --> 1439.92] Thou changest not. -[1440.32 --> 1442.14] Thy compassions, they fail not. -[1443.32 --> 1444.46] You never fail. -[1445.16 --> 1447.22] You are faithful to us, Lord. -[1449.98 --> 1452.38] Lord, forgive us when we are not faithful. -[1456.82 --> 1458.38] You see our hearts. -[1460.54 --> 1463.00] You know what we are not faithful with. -[1463.58 --> 1468.40] Lord, help us to bring this before you. -[1470.44 --> 1473.26] Help us to open our hearts to you, Lord. -[1474.80 --> 1478.50] Help us to cry to you out of the depths of our despair, -[1479.20 --> 1480.44] our darkest places. -[1480.44 --> 1486.78] You know our sinful ways. -[1487.32 --> 1489.60] How could we ever come before you, Lord? -[1492.24 --> 1493.72] But you are faithful. -[1494.70 --> 1496.34] You have made a way. -[1499.26 --> 1501.82] Help us to find healing in your sacrifice. -[1501.82 --> 1511.02] Lord, may we open our hearts to you -[1511.02 --> 1516.22] and bring our darkest, deepest moments into the light. -[1516.22 --> 1522.66] Lord, may we pray all these things in your holy name. -[1522.66 --> 1522.74] Amen. -[1522.74 --> 1525.76] Thank you. -[1526.10 --> 1528.18] Thank you. -[1530.48 --> 1532.02] I have now. -[1532.96 --> 1535.94] Thank you. -[1535.94 --> 1537.94] Amen. -[1565.94 --> 1567.94] Amen. -[1595.94 --> 1597.94] Amen. -[1625.94 --> 1627.94] Amen. -[1655.94 --> 1657.94] Amen. -[1685.94 --> 1687.94] Amen. -[1715.94 --> 1717.94] Amen. -[1745.94 --> 1747.94] Amen. -[1775.94 --> 1787.44] How good it is to sing scripture. -[1787.44 --> 1794.98] I will wait for you is a sung prayer planting the very word of God in our hearts. -[1794.98 --> 1796.44] Psalm 130 reads, -[1796.44 --> 1800.20] Out of the depths I cry to you, Lord. -[1801.14 --> 1802.96] Lord, hear my voice. -[1802.96 --> 1809.60] Let your ears be attentive to my cry for mercy. -[1809.60 --> 1817.38] If you, Lord, kept a record of sins, Lord, who could stand? -[1817.38 --> 1824.90] But with you there is forgiveness, so that we can, with reverence, serve you. -[1824.90 --> 1826.76] I wait for the Lord. -[1826.76 --> 1831.64] My whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope. -[1831.64 --> 1834.98] I wait for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning. -[1835.98 --> 1838.18] More than watchmen wait for the morning. -[1839.28 --> 1842.04] Israel, put your hope in the Lord. -[1843.24 --> 1848.86] For with the Lord is unfailing love, and with him is full redemption. -[1848.86 --> 1858.50] He himself will redeem Israel from all their sins. -[1858.50 --> 1865.26] Our faithful Father, eternal God, was the same to the psalmist as he is to us today. -[1865.26 --> 1872.66] Know that you are not alone, no matter your situation, your pain, your sin. -[1872.66 --> 1877.96] He walks with you and beacons you to call on him. -[1877.96 --> 1879.78] Let's sing. -[1879.78 --> 1880.68] Bye. -[1880.84 --> 1883.20] Bye. -[1901.16 --> 1902.00] Oh -[1902.00 --> 1911.20] I'm calling on the God of Jacob -[1911.20 --> 1917.32] His love endures to generations -[1917.32 --> 1924.36] I know that He will keep your covenant -[1924.36 --> 1930.00] I'm calling on the God of Moses -[1930.00 --> 1936.56] The one who opened up the ocean -[1936.56 --> 1945.00] I need you now to do the same thing for me -[1945.00 --> 1954.44] Oh God, my God, I need you -[1954.44 --> 1958.00] Oh God, my God, I need you now -[1958.00 --> 1962.00] How I need you now -[1962.00 --> 1966.56] Oh rock, oh rock of ages -[1966.56 --> 1972.56] I'm standing on your faithfulness -[1972.56 --> 1981.12] I'm calling on the God of Mary -[1981.12 --> 1987.68] Whose favor rests upon the lowly -[1987.68 --> 1994.16] I know with you all things are possible -[1994.16 --> 2000.72] I'm calling on the God of David -[2000.72 --> 2005.84] Who made a shepherd, what courageous -[2005.84 --> 2011.04] I may not miss the lion -[2011.04 --> 2013.72] But I got my own giant -[2013.72 --> 2017.72] Oh God, my God, I need you -[2017.72 --> 2020.28] Oh God, my God, I need you -[2020.28 --> 2023.72] Now, now I need you -[2023.72 --> 2026.28] Now, now I need you -[2026.28 --> 2029.72] Oh rock, oh rock of ages -[2029.72 --> 2034.28] I'm standing on your faithfulness -[2034.28 --> 2040.28] You hurt your children then -[2040.28 --> 2044.28] You hear your children now -[2044.28 --> 2058.84] You are the same God -[2058.84 --> 2062.28] You are the same God -[2062.28 --> 2064.84] You answered your prayers back then -[2064.84 --> 2066.84] And you will answer now -[2066.84 --> 2068.84] And you will answer now -[2068.84 --> 2070.84] You are the same God -[2070.84 --> 2072.84] You are the same God -[2072.84 --> 2074.84] You were the same God -[2074.84 --> 2076.84] You were providing then -[2076.84 --> 2078.84] You are providing now -[2078.84 --> 2080.84] You are the same God -[2080.84 --> 2092.84] You are the same God -[2092.84 --> 2094.84] You are the same God -[2094.84 --> 2098.84] You were a healer then -[2098.84 --> 2102.84] You are a healer now -[2102.84 --> 2106.84] You are a healer now -[2106.84 --> 2108.84] Oh -[2136.84 --> 2138.84] Oh -[2166.84 --> 2168.84] Oh -[2196.84 --> 2198.84] Oh -[2226.84 --> 2228.84] Oh -[2228.84 --> 2256.82] Good morning my name is Mike and I serve as a deacon here at the church and we are going to take some time now to also worship through our giving and we'll hand around some bags and such through the aisles or through the rows and if anything is undesignated in the in the bag that goes to the ministries of this church but our special offering today is for resonate and that is the outreach arm of the CRS -[2256.82 --> 2286.80] church but we're actually going to do a special need that resonate has expressed we're going to give towards that today so a couple weeks ago pastor Chris shared about meeting Reverend Moses from the CRC Sierra Leone which is in West Africa and he was here visiting a few of the pastors and I think we might have a few photos that Linda could put up of them meeting some of the pastors here in BC meeting Reverend Moses and he expressed a need that the church there is experiencing so apparently the CRC church -[2286.80 --> 2316.78] in Sierra Leone is one of the fastest growing churches in their country and CRC Sierra Leone spends a lot of time going out to some of the more remote committees schools churches that are growing in that area so they have a special need for a new land cruiser something that's four before they can get out to these spots and I guess some of their vehicles are a little worse for wear so someone here in the lower mainland committed I believe someone from out here committed to a $40,000 grant to help -[2316.78 --> 2329.78] get them towards their $80,000 goal so today's offering is going to go towards that need towards a new vehicle for the CRC in Sierra Leone so thank you for giving to that need this morning -[2329.78 --> 2332.20] we go to today's graduation -[2348.64 --> 2352.94] we'll -[2354.28 --> 2354.78] we -[2354.78 --> 2356.78] in -[2356.78 --> 2369.02] Here I am -[2369.02 --> 2374.72] From the ends of the earth -[2374.72 --> 2376.62] I'll be diff --git a/Sunday Worship, June 22, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, June 22, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0289d6efc8bbc59d2d1006bcdb76ad9e4f36b90e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, June 22, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,106 +0,0 @@ -• Discussion about the ownership of something -• Reflection on being under pressure and finding treasures in adversity -• Analogy of making diamonds out of dust and being revived by love -• Joy and strength found in the Lord during difficult times -• Message of unconditional love and acceptance from God -• Invitation to lay down guard and come to God with open heart -• Congratulations to Lisa and the Saints on winning the Langley Slow Pitch B Division -• Appreciation for team supporters who came out to cheer them on -• Recap of the Synod of the Christian Reformed Church meeting at Redeemer University in Hamilton -• Upcoming food drive and pancake breakfast on July 12th, benefiting the Langley Food Bank -• Invitation to worship together as a family of God -• Reciting Psalm 142 as a prayer of confession -• Expressing devotion to God through worship and praise -• Crying out for mercy and rescue from troubles and snares -• Recognizing Jesus as the Redeemer, Savior, and source of hope and peace -• Acknowledging that one's strength and security come from Christ alone -• Salvation through Christ's blood and spirit -• Purpose of good works: to express gratitude to God -• Faith and its benefits (freedom, body) -• Worshiping Jesus in amazement and love -• Acknowledging Children's Worship Time students' contributions -• Recognizing long-term commitment from Children's Worship Time teachers -• Congratulating students on their participation in children's worship time -• Introducing six grade four students who are graduating from the program -• Praying over the students and seeking God's guidance for them -• Taking offerings -• Guest speaker from Advocate, discussing their baby bottle campaign and thanking the congregation for their support -• A young woman comes into a center for a pregnancy test, which leads to an ultrasound that shows the baby's movement -• The woman's boyfriend witnesses the ultrasound and initially appears emotionally turned off but eventually becomes engaged and accepts responsibility for the child -• He says "hold it" when asked if he knows what is happening inside his girlfriend, indicating a moment of realization -• The couple decides to keep the baby after a dramatic change in attitude, with tears and smiles from both parties -• Ministry opportunities and community outreach -• Annual youth justice initiative and Deacon scholarships -• Donations to general budget or other ministries -• Children's worship time and memory verse introduction -• Leadership and setting an example, illustrated by the game "Simon Says" -• Discussion of Simon Says as an example of leadership -• Bible verse discussion, possibly related to Philippians or Thessalonians -• Update on the church's Elders Council meeting -• Call for Kevin Lobert and potential vote by congregation -• Blessings and prayers for various members and students -• Discussion of 2 Thessalonians 3, specifically verses 6-18 -• The importance of being a good example and not being idle or disruptive in the community -• A culture that values productivity and rest, but often struggles to find balance between the two -• The tension between generosity and fear of being taken advantage of -• Drawing lines between those who are worthy of help and those who are not -• Disillusionment with conventional approaches to work and generosity -• Critique of hustle and cynicism as ineffective and isolating -• Need for a balanced approach that values work, generosity, and accountability -• Paul's letter in 2 Thessalonians 3 addresses both overproductivity and idleness -• Warning against the dangers of idleness and its potential connection to false expectations about Jesus' return -• Importance of maintaining a community shaped by grace that balances work, generosity, and accountability -• The early church shared possessions in common and cared for one another. -• The risk of being taken advantage of is inherent when being generous to others. -• Lucian's story about Peregrinus, a man who faked conversion to Christianity for influence, illustrates the potential for exploitation. -• The early Christian community was often naive and trusting, which made them vulnerable to being taken advantage of by those with ulterior motives. -• Christians who share their resources are vulnerable to exploitation -• Paul advises his followers not to be naive, but rather wise and shrewd in handling their generosity -• The idea is similar to Jesus' advice to be like sheep among wolves, yet shrewd as snakes -• Paul warns the Thessalonians about idle believers who contribute nothing and are "busy bodies" -• He urges them to settle down, earn their food, and live a quiet life -• The Bible teaches a contrast between diligence and laziness, with hard work considered wisdom and idleness as folly -• This principle is rooted in the Old Testament book of Proverbs -• Paul's teachings in 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 and Timothy emphasize the importance of living quiet lives, not being dependent on others, and devoting oneself to good works -• Tradition refers to lived teaching or the practice of faith, not just words or commands -• Faith comes from hearing the gospel and believing it -• Jesus Christ's life and death serve as an example of faith -• Believing in one's faith changes everything they do -• The Bible teaches that work is good and should be done with all one's heart -• Christian bosses should be generous and encouraging to their employees -• Christian employees should strive to be among the most hardworking and diligent -• The importance of doing work for God's glory -• Distinguishing between hard work and idolatry of busyness -• Finding balance in work and not making more of it than needed -• The danger of idleness and becoming apathetic -• Embracing a theology of work that glorifies God -• Giving up everything for others' ease -• Frustration with those who don't use aid effectively -• The pain of being dependent on charity -• Wearying of doing good when it seems no one else is -• The danger of cynicism, bitterness, and pride that can result from these feelings -• Don't be distracted by others' wrongdoings, focus on your pursuit of holiness -• Your responsibility is to be gracious and generous, not to control how others use aid -• Need for help, encouragement, and mutual accountability -• Importance of noticing and addressing disobedience in others -• Role of the church in helping individuals see truth and repent -• Paul's pastoral approach despite firmness and frustration -• Desire for restoration and faithfulness -• Seeing work as a gift from God, not a burden -• The importance of giving freely and sacrificially, even when not easy or convenient -• Accountability in faithfulness is an act of love that helps us stay faithful and grow together -• Living out this truth by working diligently, giving generously, and holding each other accountable to standards of faithfulness -• Contributing to the health of the community and being willing to step up in work, generosity, and loving accountability -• Practicing a gospel-saturated life together that is known for hard work, prodigious and unyielding generosity, and loving accountability -• Prayer for mercy and grace -• Praise and worship of God -• Request for strength, patience, and peace -• Acknowledgment of God's goodness and presence -• Invitation to fellowship and prayer after service -• Blessing from Paul (2 Thessalonians) -• Prayer for peace and the Lord's presence -• Enduring presence of a son through the Holy Spirit -• Victory and life through gratitude -• Concept of "Maeveha" or self-awareness -• Coming together with something or someone (ep) -• Repeated expression of thanks \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, June 22, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, June 22, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 40eaeef95bcc28cc8f4f9eef8cb633df70aedfeb..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, June 22, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1987 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 3.92] What are you doing? Where are you going? -[5.66 --> 7.88] This is who? -[8.88 --> 9.68] This is Mark's. -[9.68 --> 11.50] Why do you find this is Mark's? -[11.50 --> 13.90] Okay, that's good. -[13.90 --> 15.84] Thank you. -[19.80 --> 28.00] Here and now I'm in the fire and above my head. -[30.00 --> 37.20] Being held under the pressure, don't know what'll be left. -[40.16 --> 48.92] But it's here in the ashes, I'm finding treasures. -[50.44 --> 54.54] He's making diamonds, diamonds. -[55.18 --> 58.92] Making diamonds out of dust. -[58.92 --> 61.40] He is reviving. -[61.98 --> 68.12] And in his timing, he's making diamonds out of us. -[68.12 --> 73.32] I'll surrender to the power of being crushed by love. -[77.32 --> 82.86] Till the beauty that was hidden isn't covered up. -[82.86 --> 90.06] Oh, it's not what I hoped for. -[90.06 --> 94.06] It's something much better. -[94.06 --> 95.26] He's making diamonds. -[95.26 --> 97.26] He's making diamonds. -[97.26 --> 103.26] He's making diamonds out of dust. -[103.26 --> 105.26] He is reviving. -[105.26 --> 107.26] And in his timing, he's making diamonds out of us. -[107.26 --> 114.46] And in his timing, he's making diamonds out of us. -[114.46 --> 115.66] Oh, the joy of the Lord. -[115.66 --> 119.04] Oh, the joy of the Lord. -[119.04 --> 120.86] It will be my strength. -[120.86 --> 122.06] When the pressure is on. -[122.06 --> 123.06] When the pressure is on. -[123.06 --> 124.06] He's making diamonds. -[124.06 --> 126.06] Oh, the joy of the Lord. -[126.06 --> 128.06] It will be my strength. -[128.06 --> 129.26] When the pressure is on. -[129.26 --> 130.26] He's making diamonds. -[130.26 --> 131.26] Oh, the joy of the Lord. -[131.26 --> 132.26] It will be my strength. -[132.26 --> 133.26] When the pressure is on. -[133.26 --> 134.26] He's making diamonds. -[134.26 --> 137.26] Oh, the joy of the Lord. -[137.26 --> 138.26] Oh, the joy of the Lord. -[138.26 --> 139.46] It will be my strength. -[139.46 --> 140.46] Oh, the joy of the Lord. -[140.46 --> 141.46] Oh, the joy of the Lord. -[141.46 --> 148.46] And in his timing, he's making diamonds out of dust. -[148.46 --> 154.46] Making diamonds out of dust. -[154.46 --> 164.46] Oh, the joy of the Lord. -[164.46 --> 176.66] Thank you. -[176.66 --> 181.66] Thank you. -[181.66 --> 183.66] Thank you. -[183.66 --> 195.66] Thank you. -[195.66 --> 204.86] I want you as you are, not as you ought to be. -[204.86 --> 218.06] Won't you lay down your guard and come to me? -[218.06 --> 224.06] The shame that grips you now is crippling. -[224.06 --> 229.06] It breaks my heart to see your suffering. -[229.06 --> 232.26] Cause I am for you. -[232.26 --> 236.26] I'm not against you. -[236.26 --> 240.26] If you want to know how far my love can go. -[240.26 --> 244.26] Just how deep, just how wide. -[244.26 --> 247.86] If you want to see how much you mean to me. -[247.86 --> 251.26] Look at my hands, look at my side. -[251.26 --> 256.46] Cause you can count the times that say you are forgiven. -[256.46 --> 260.46] It's more than the drops in the ocean. -[260.46 --> 272.46] Don't think you need to settle for a substitute. -[272.46 --> 277.66] When I'm the only love that changes you. -[277.66 --> 281.66] And I am for you. -[281.66 --> 285.66] I'm not against you. -[285.66 --> 289.66] I am for you. -[289.66 --> 293.66] I'm not against you. -[293.66 --> 296.86] If you want to know how far my love can go. -[296.86 --> 300.86] Just how deep, just how wide. -[300.86 --> 304.46] If you want to see how much you mean to me. -[304.46 --> 308.26] Look at my hands, look at my side. -[308.26 --> 313.86] If you can count the times that say you are forgiven. -[313.86 --> 324.06] It's more than the drops in the ocean. -[324.06 --> 325.86] Open your heart. -[325.86 --> 329.06] It's time that we start again. -[329.06 --> 333.06] Open your heart. -[333.06 --> 336.06] It's time that we start again. -[336.06 --> 342.06] If you want to know how far my love can go. -[342.06 --> 346.06] Just how deep, just how wide. -[346.06 --> 349.26] If you want to see how much you mean to me. -[349.26 --> 352.26] Look at my hands, look at my side. -[352.26 --> 358.26] So you can count the times that say you are forgiven. -[358.26 --> 363.26] It's more than the drops in the ocean. -[363.26 --> 369.26] The drops in the ocean. -[369.26 --> 373.46] The drops in the ocean. -[373.46 --> 376.46] The drops in the ocean. -[376.46 --> 379.46] I am for you. -[379.46 --> 383.46] I'm not against you. -[383.46 --> 387.46] I am for you. -[387.46 --> 391.46] I'm not against you. -[391.46 --> 401.06] I am I -[401.06 --> 404.86] This is clean for you. -[404.86 --> 434.06] Good morning, everyone. -[434.86 --> 438.74] Welcome to church this morning. -[438.74 --> 440.56] An extra special welcome. -[440.56 --> 444.84] If you are a guest with us this morning, we are grateful that you are here. -[445.16 --> 445.82] My name is Chris. -[446.02 --> 451.20] I'm one of the pastors here at Emanuel, and it's my privilege, along with these others, -[451.30 --> 453.22] to lead in our worship this morning. -[453.30 --> 457.28] Before we begin, in earnest, we have a couple announcements that we would like to make and -[457.28 --> 458.56] just throw out to you. -[458.56 --> 459.56] Thank you. -[459.56 --> 466.40] First of all, as she's walking in, we want to congratulate Lisa and the Saints on winning -[466.40 --> 470.56] the Langley Slow Pitch B Division. -[470.56 --> 476.98] They defeated us, the Isotopes, yesterday in the tournament, and then went on to win. -[476.98 --> 479.56] So congratulations, Lisa. -[479.56 --> 490.02] But in all seriousness, on behalf of the Isotope team, thank you to all of you who came out -[490.02 --> 491.54] and cheered us on. -[492.14 --> 496.76] We have a reputation in this league as the best supported team. -[497.62 --> 499.16] And so that's our fans who come out. -[499.24 --> 504.04] So thank you to family and friends and people who'd use this as an opportunity for community. -[504.04 --> 505.86] It's a real blessing for all of us. -[506.30 --> 508.08] And we have a lot of fun while doing it as well. -[509.18 --> 511.04] Also wanted to draw your attention. -[511.50 --> 515.30] Maybe you saw it in the pre-service slideshow or in the e-bulletin that went out. -[515.44 --> 520.76] But this past week, the Synod of the Christian Reformed Church was meeting. -[520.98 --> 528.64] And so that's when elders, deacons, and pastors from all the different area churches come together -[528.64 --> 532.54] for an annual meeting to discuss theology and the life of the church. -[532.54 --> 535.72] That happened at Redeemer University in Hamilton. -[536.50 --> 541.50] And I'm going to just walk through a quick recap of the decisions and the things that -[541.50 --> 542.94] came out of that meeting. -[543.26 --> 546.48] I was not there, but I did follow along and participate. -[546.78 --> 548.22] And I spoke to some people who were. -[548.90 --> 552.76] And so every year we do this in the multi-purpose room, following worship. -[553.46 --> 556.86] Grab your coffee, hang out with your friends, fellowship for a little while, and eventually -[556.86 --> 560.70] we'll move in there and I'll just kind of walk you through what took place. -[560.70 --> 568.12] And then also on behalf of the deacons, just a reminder and encouragement that on July 12, -[568.36 --> 573.66] we're having a food drive and pancake breakfast here where we invite the community and the -[573.66 --> 579.36] neighborhood to come and bring bags full of food that we will then donate to the Langley -[579.36 --> 579.90] Food Bank. -[580.04 --> 584.82] And so please, there's a sign-up sheet for that, both in the preparing and distributing -[584.82 --> 589.00] of bags as well as participating on that Saturday in different ways. -[589.06 --> 590.64] So find that in the e-bulletin. -[590.84 --> 596.22] If you have any questions, you can talk to any of myself or Pastor Kevin or any of the -[596.22 --> 598.90] deacons and they would love to help get that together. -[599.68 --> 601.56] I think that's it as far as announcements go. -[601.78 --> 603.80] And so I'm going to invite you as you're able to stand. -[605.10 --> 609.58] We together as a family of God can be welcomed into his presence. -[609.58 --> 614.32] Following the receiving of God's greeting, I'm going to invite you to turn to those around -[614.32 --> 617.56] you and then welcome them into our shared worship this morning. -[617.96 --> 619.38] Receive the greeting of our God. -[620.80 --> 628.06] Grace, mercy, peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son and our Savior, -[628.52 --> 630.76] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[631.58 --> 631.92] Amen. -[639.58 --> 641.06] Thank you. -[641.12 --> 641.32] Amen. -[667.62 --> 668.02] Thank you. -[668.02 --> 668.44] Amen. -[668.44 --> 669.52] Amen. -[669.58 --> 672.36] Psalm 150 says, -[699.58 --> 705.20] Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. -[706.02 --> 706.92] Praise the Lord. -[729.58 --> 737.58] To follow you today, I choose. -[739.26 --> 746.02] To hear my yes to you today, I choose. -[747.64 --> 754.34] To hear your voice today, I choose. -[754.34 --> 759.52] To follow you. -[761.08 --> 768.34] As for me and my house, we will serve you. -[769.18 --> 777.50] As for me and my house, we will stand our eyes on you. -[784.34 --> 798.18] Today I choose. -[800.18 --> 806.08] To follow you today, I choose. -[806.08 --> 814.82] To hear my yes to you today, I choose. -[816.82 --> 822.64] To hear your voice today, I choose. -[822.64 --> 827.64] To follow you. -[829.38 --> 837.06] As for me and my house, we will serve you. -[837.88 --> 846.16] As for me and my house, we will stand the light on you. -[846.16 --> 864.90] As for me and my house, we will stand our eyes on you. -[864.90 --> 866.90] To follow you today. -[870.64 --> 877.52] Wonderful Counselor, everlasting Father. -[878.82 --> 885.60] Eternal King, Lord of Hosts, willingly we follow. -[885.60 --> 915.58] Today I choose. -[915.60 --> 916.60] Today I choose. -[916.60 --> 917.60] Today I choose. -[917.60 --> 922.60] To give my yes to you today, I choose. -[922.60 --> 924.60] Today I choose. -[924.60 --> 926.60] Today I choose. -[926.60 --> 930.60] To hear your voice today, I live today. -[930.60 --> 932.60] Today I choose. -[932.60 --> 936.60] To follow you. -[936.60 --> 937.60] free. -[937.60 --> 939.60] Today I choose. -[939.60 --> 948.88] Today I choose. -[948.88 --> 953.60] Adding a mystery. -[953.60 --> 956.60] To mermaid. -[956.60 --> 986.58] Thank you. -[986.60 --> 997.78] I will worship with all of my heart. -[997.78 --> 1008.32] I will praise you with all of my strength. -[1008.32 --> 1017.50] I will seek you all of my name. -[1017.50 --> 1028.50] I will follow all of your ways. -[1028.50 --> 1036.68] I will give you all my worship. -[1037.68 --> 1042.50] I will give you all my praise. -[1043.78 --> 1048.22] You, Lord, I love to worship. -[1048.22 --> 1054.50] You, Lord, I'm not worthy of my name. -[1054.50 --> 1057.40] I will bow down. -[1057.40 --> 1059.82] I will bow down. -[1059.82 --> 1062.22] And hail you as King. -[1063.00 --> 1065.42] Hail you as King. -[1065.42 --> 1068.60] I will serve you. -[1068.60 --> 1071.00] I will serve you. -[1071.00 --> 1073.14] Give you everything. -[1074.06 --> 1076.60] Give you everything. -[1076.88 --> 1079.60] I will lift up. -[1079.66 --> 1081.42] I will lift up. -[1082.10 --> 1084.42] My eyes to your throne. -[1084.42 --> 1087.42] My eyes to your throne. -[1087.42 --> 1090.42] I will trust you. -[1090.42 --> 1092.42] I will trust you. -[1092.42 --> 1095.42] I will trust you, Lord. -[1095.42 --> 1098.42] Trust in you, Lord. -[1098.42 --> 1104.42] I will give you all my worship. -[1104.42 --> 1110.60] I will give you all my praise. -[1110.60 --> 1115.60] You, Lord, I love to worship. -[1115.60 --> 1121.80] You, Lord, I'm worthy of my praise. -[1121.80 --> 1126.60] I will give you all my worship. -[1126.60 --> 1132.70] I will give you all my praise. -[1132.70 --> 1137.60] You, Lord, I love to worship. -[1137.60 --> 1144.78] You, Lord, I'm worthy of my praise. -[1150.96 --> 1156.08] The words of Psalm 142 are our prayer of confession this morning. -[1156.42 --> 1157.62] Join me in prayer. -[1160.18 --> 1162.06] I cry aloud to the Lord. -[1162.40 --> 1165.14] I lift up my voice to the Lord for mercy. -[1165.14 --> 1168.14] I pour out before him my complaint. -[1168.14 --> 1171.14] Before him I tell my trouble. -[1171.14 --> 1174.14] When my spirit grows faint within me, -[1174.14 --> 1177.14] it is you who watch over my way. -[1177.14 --> 1181.14] In the path where I walk, people have hidden a snare for me. -[1181.14 --> 1182.14] Look and see. -[1182.14 --> 1185.14] There is no one at my right hand. -[1185.14 --> 1187.14] No one is concerned for me. -[1187.14 --> 1189.14] I have no refuge. -[1189.14 --> 1191.14] No one cares for my life. -[1191.14 --> 1194.14] No one cares for my life. -[1194.14 --> 1196.14] I cry to the Lord. -[1196.14 --> 1202.14] I say, you are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living. -[1202.14 --> 1206.14] Listen to my cry, for I am in desperate need. -[1206.14 --> 1212.14] Rescue me from those who pursue me, for they are too strong for me. -[1212.14 --> 1218.14] Set me free from my prison, that I may praise your name. -[1218.14 --> 1223.14] Then the righteous will gather about me because of your goodness to me. -[1223.14 --> 1241.14] What gift of grace is Jesus my Redeemer? -[1241.14 --> 1249.14] There is no more for heaven now to Him. -[1249.14 --> 1256.14] He is my joy, my righteousness and freedom. -[1256.14 --> 1264.14] My steadfast love, my deep and boundless peace. -[1264.14 --> 1272.14] Through this I hold, my hope is only Jesus. -[1272.14 --> 1279.14] For my life is wholly bound to His. -[1279.14 --> 1285.14] Oh, how strange and divine I can see. -[1285.14 --> 1292.14] All is mine, yet not I, but through Christ's name. -[1292.14 --> 1311.14] The night is dark, but I am not forsaken. -[1311.14 --> 1319.14] For by my side, the Savior He will stay. -[1319.14 --> 1326.14] I later on, in weakness and rejoicing. -[1326.14 --> 1333.14] For in my need, His power is misplaced. -[1333.14 --> 1341.14] To this I hold, my shepherd will defend He. -[1341.14 --> 1348.14] Through the deepest valley He will lead. -[1348.14 --> 1349.14] Through the deepest valley of faith in me. -[1349.14 --> 1355.14] All the light has been won, and I shall overcome. -[1355.14 --> 1363.14] Yet not I, but through Christ's name. -[1363.14 --> 1379.52] No fate I dread, I know I am forgiven -[1379.52 --> 1387.52] The future's sure, the price it has been paid -[1387.52 --> 1393.92] For Jesus bled and suffered for my pardon -[1393.92 --> 1401.64] And He was raised to overthrow the grave -[1401.64 --> 1408.02] To this I hold, my sin has been defeated -[1408.02 --> 1415.52] Jesus now and ever is my sin -[1415.52 --> 1419.72] For the chains are released -[1419.72 --> 1423.42] I can see I am free -[1423.42 --> 1428.22] And God I, but through Christ is free -[1428.22 --> 1447.20] With every breath I long to follow Jesus -[1447.20 --> 1454.52] For He has said that He will bring me home -[1454.52 --> 1462.42] And day by day I know He will renew me -[1462.42 --> 1468.72] Until I stand with joy before the throne -[1468.72 --> 1476.62] To this I hold, my hope is only Jesus -[1476.62 --> 1483.72] All the glory evermore to live -[1483.72 --> 1490.62] When the race is foundly, still my lips shall repeat -[1490.62 --> 1498.52] Yet not I, but through Christ is free -[1498.52 --> 1504.52] To this I hold, my hope is only Jesus -[1504.52 --> 1512.42] All the glory evermore to Him -[1512.42 --> 1520.22] When the race is complete, still my lips shall repeat -[1520.22 --> 1526.42] Yet not I, but through Christ will be -[1526.42 --> 1534.32] Yet not I, but through Christ will be -[1534.32 --> 1556.12] Lord's Day 32, question and answer 86 -[1556.12 --> 1559.00] Are the words that remind us of our assurance -[1559.00 --> 1561.30] And our response to it -[1561.30 --> 1564.06] Please read the answer with me -[1564.06 --> 1565.26] The question -[1565.26 --> 1569.38] Since we have been delivered by our misery by grace -[1569.38 --> 1572.30] Through Christ without any merit of our own -[1572.30 --> 1575.10] Why then should we do good works? -[1575.10 --> 1577.10] Because Christ -[1577.10 --> 1577.60] Because Christ -[1577.60 --> 1580.38] Having redeemed us by His blood -[1580.38 --> 1583.78] Is also restoring us by His spirit -[1583.78 --> 1585.40] And He's in His image -[1585.40 --> 1587.98] God has our whole lives -[1587.98 --> 1591.24] He may show that we are thankful to God -[1591.24 --> 1596.08] So that He may be raised for us -[1596.08 --> 1599.32] So that we may be sure that our faith -[1599.32 --> 1600.32] I am free -[1600.32 --> 1602.88] And so that I have a body -[1602.88 --> 1620.26] I stand amazed in the presence -[1620.26 --> 1626.26] Of Jesus the Nazarene -[1626.26 --> 1635.26] And wonder how He could love me -[1635.26 --> 1641.26] Of sin and condemned and we -[1641.26 --> 1646.26] We're singing -[1646.26 --> 1649.26] How marvelous -[1649.26 --> 1653.26] How marvelous -[1653.26 --> 1656.26] And my song -[1656.26 --> 1660.26] Shall ever be -[1660.26 --> 1663.26] How marvelous -[1663.26 --> 1664.26] How marvelous -[1664.26 --> 1665.26] How marvelous -[1665.26 --> 1666.26] How marvelous -[1666.26 --> 1667.26] How marvelous -[1667.26 --> 1668.26] How marvelous -[1668.26 --> 1671.26] Is my Savior -[1671.26 --> 1672.26] Is my Savior -[1672.26 --> 1673.26] For glory -[1673.26 --> 1683.26] He took my sins -[1683.26 --> 1684.26] And my soul -[1684.26 --> 1692.50] So old, he made them his very own. -[1692.50 --> 1707.22] And he owed a burden to Calvary, and suffered and died of old. -[1707.22 --> 1721.22] How marvelous, how wonderful, and my song shall ever be. -[1721.22 --> 1735.38] How marvelous, how wonderful is my Savior's love for all of you. -[1737.22 --> 1753.22] With the ransomed in glory, His face I am blessed as He. -[1753.22 --> 1767.22] It will be my joy through the ages, to sing of His love for me. -[1767.22 --> 1784.22] How marvelous, how wonderful, and my song shall ever be. -[1784.22 --> 1798.22] How marvelous, how wonderful is my Savior's love for all of you. -[1798.22 --> 1800.22] We're singing. -[1800.22 --> 1813.22] How marvelous, how wonderful, and my song shall ever be. -[1813.22 --> 1828.22] How marvelous, how wonderful is my Savior's love for all of you. -[1828.22 --> 1844.22] How marvelous, how wonderful is my Savior's love for all of you. -[1844.22 --> 1847.22] I'm going to bring up a few people to the front. -[1847.22 --> 1850.22] I'm going to list them off, and I'm hoping you can just come up and join me here. -[1850.22 --> 1853.22] First of all, I'd love for Rachel Malawaney. -[1853.22 --> 1854.22] She's going to come for it. -[1854.22 --> 1855.22] Malawaney, Malawani. -[1855.22 --> 1858.22] I always say it wrong first, and then I get it right the second time. -[1858.22 --> 1859.22] Malawani. -[1859.22 --> 1861.22] Rachel has been our Children's Worship Time Coordinator this year, -[1861.22 --> 1864.22] and so she stepped into the role in September, has done an excellent job. -[1864.22 --> 1869.22] And she's here to help me introduce a few of our Grade 4 students. -[1869.22 --> 1879.22] So I would like to invite up Alia Verkaik, Karis Nordum, Tyus Wind, Joel Klein-Geltink, Malachi De Winter, and Luca Vartstra. -[1879.22 --> 1881.22] If you can come up to the front. -[1881.22 --> 1883.22] Here they all come. -[1883.22 --> 1885.22] They're all from the same side of the church. -[1885.22 --> 1886.22] That's it. Here, come on this side of me. -[1886.22 --> 1887.22] Let's go right here. -[1887.22 --> 1889.22] You can stand right in front. -[1889.22 --> 1892.22] There, we'll wait for everybody to come forward. -[1892.22 --> 1893.22] There we go. -[1893.22 --> 1903.22] Now these fine young folks here are about to go to their last Children's Worship Time ever as students. -[1903.22 --> 1904.22] Hopefully they come back as leaders. -[1904.22 --> 1906.22] But this is their last one. -[1906.22 --> 1908.22] And so we wanted to acknowledge that. -[1908.22 --> 1910.22] We're going to pray for them in a second. -[1910.22 --> 1913.22] And we wanted to actually just give them a round of applause. -[1913.22 --> 1914.22] So let's just give them... -[1914.22 --> 1922.22] I'd also like to highlight, if I can, they've been in Children's Worship Time since they were in preschool, -[1922.22 --> 1925.22] and I didn't do the math, but I think that's about seven-ish years. -[1925.22 --> 1929.22] If you've been a Children's Worship Time teacher in the last seven years... -[1929.22 --> 1930.22] So just think about it. -[1930.22 --> 1932.22] Sit with that for a second. -[1932.22 --> 1936.22] If you've been a Children's Worship Time teacher at all in the last seven years, can you stand up for a moment? -[1936.22 --> 1938.22] Right now. Here we go. -[1938.22 --> 1939.22] Whoop! -[1939.22 --> 1940.22] I think there's more. -[1940.22 --> 1941.22] I think there's more. -[1941.22 --> 1946.22] But these are all people that have been in their lives over the last seven years as well. -[1946.22 --> 1950.22] And so I think it's a really good, beautiful picture of the church at work. -[1950.22 --> 1954.22] As we've had baptism stuff, we always promise to encourage and teach. -[1954.22 --> 1957.22] And so we thank you all for being a part of their lives as well. -[1957.22 --> 1959.22] We give them a round of applause too. -[1959.22 --> 1960.22] Now... -[1963.22 --> 1967.22] We have some Bibles. Rachel's going to help pass them out. -[1967.22 --> 1970.22] Who do we have first here? -[1970.22 --> 1973.22] This will take just but a minute. -[1973.22 --> 1976.22] Alright, Luca. This is for you, my man. -[1976.22 --> 1978.22] There you go. Congratulations to you. -[1978.22 --> 1982.22] This Bible is for you to take to church as you listen to Pastor Chris preach. -[1982.22 --> 1984.22] So as he's preaching, you can read your Bibles. -[1984.22 --> 1987.22] We have Aaliyah. Aaliyah. Congratulations. -[1987.22 --> 1988.22] This is for you. -[1988.22 --> 1990.22] And then we've got... -[1992.22 --> 1994.22] Tyus. Where's Tyus? There he is. -[1994.22 --> 1996.22] Tyus. Congratulations, buddy. -[1996.22 --> 1998.22] There we go. -[1998.22 --> 2000.22] Next up. -[2000.22 --> 2002.22] Joel. Where's Joel? -[2002.22 --> 2003.22] Here he is. -[2003.22 --> 2005.22] Joel. Congratulations. -[2005.22 --> 2006.22] For you. -[2006.22 --> 2008.22] And two left. -[2008.22 --> 2011.22] This is in no particular order, everybody. -[2011.22 --> 2012.22] No particular order. -[2012.22 --> 2013.22] They just ended up in the bag. -[2013.22 --> 2015.22] Malachi, you're next. -[2015.22 --> 2018.22] Which of course leaves Charis. -[2018.22 --> 2019.22] Congratulations for you too. -[2019.22 --> 2021.22] Now what I'd love for you to do... -[2021.22 --> 2023.22] Can you guys stand like right here in a row? -[2023.22 --> 2028.22] And I'm going to invite up any family, any children's worship time teachers, -[2028.22 --> 2030.22] or anybody at all who wants to come and lay... -[2030.22 --> 2031.22] Any kids who want to do this? -[2031.22 --> 2032.22] You can come up here. -[2032.22 --> 2035.22] We're going to lay hands on these six young folks. -[2035.22 --> 2037.22] We're just going to pray over them right now. -[2037.22 --> 2040.22] So please make your way to the front and we'll do that right now. -[2040.22 --> 2041.22] All right. -[2041.22 --> 2042.22] All right. -[2042.22 --> 2043.22] All right. -[2043.22 --> 2044.22] All right. -[2044.22 --> 2046.22] Church, let's bow our heads in prayer. -[2046.22 --> 2059.22] Father God, we are so grateful that we have the opportunity to have children's worship time in this church. -[2059.22 --> 2060.22] For all of the kids in this congregation, Lord. -[2060.22 --> 2061.22] We thank you for them. -[2061.22 --> 2065.22] We thank you for the life and the energy that they bring and for their desire to know you better, Lord. -[2065.22 --> 2071.22] And we think especially of these six grade four students who have been a part of children's worship time for a long time. -[2071.22 --> 2072.22] We're going to pray for them. -[2072.22 --> 2073.22] We're going to pray for them. -[2073.22 --> 2078.22] We thank you for the life and the energy that they bring and for their desire to know you better, Lord. -[2078.22 --> 2087.22] And we think especially of these six grade four students who have been a part of children's worship time for a long time, who are going to their last children's worship time today. -[2087.22 --> 2100.22] And God, as they conclude this part of their church life and as they join the rest of us in the greater body of Christ here on a Sunday mornings, God, we just pray that you continue to work in their hearts. -[2100.22 --> 2107.22] May they continue to seek you and may the word of God that they are holding today, may that become ever more true to them as well. -[2107.22 --> 2109.22] And so we thank you so much for them, Lord. -[2109.22 --> 2117.22] May they be encouraged today and may you continue to put people in their lives to mentor them and shape them and may they seek you first in all things. -[2117.22 --> 2121.22] And so God, we lift up these six to you in your name. -[2121.22 --> 2122.22] Amen. -[2122.22 --> 2123.22] All right. -[2123.22 --> 2124.22] Thank you, everyone. -[2124.22 --> 2126.22] You can make your way back to your seats. -[2126.22 --> 2136.22] We're now going to have time for our offering. -[2136.22 --> 2139.22] So I'm going to invite up whoever's coming forward to share that. -[2139.22 --> 2140.22] Here. -[2148.22 --> 2149.22] Good morning. -[2149.22 --> 2150.22] My name is Yap. -[2150.22 --> 2152.22] I'm a deacon here at Langley Emanuel. -[2152.22 --> 2156.22] Before we do the offering here, I'd like to just introduce Phil from Advocate. -[2156.22 --> 2163.22] He's going to come up and say a few words. -[2163.22 --> 2169.22] Thank you. -[2169.22 --> 2172.22] Good morning, Emanuel. -[2172.22 --> 2174.22] Good to see you. -[2174.22 --> 2179.22] This is, I must say, coming in here today. -[2179.22 --> 2184.22] I feel like I'm being taken to my deep past. -[2184.22 --> 2193.22] More than 1998, my wife and I moved to Langley and we were moved on to 205 A Street. -[2193.22 --> 2200.48] Street and I was out in the yard cleaning up and moving our possessions -[2200.48 --> 2207.50] into our home and this fellow came along who was a neighbor not too far away and -[2207.50 --> 2213.32] he said he questioned me as to who I was and what I was doing and what my -[2213.32 --> 2222.78] business was there and eventually the conversation turned to theology and he -[2222.78 --> 2234.36] said oh by the way my name is Bert and and I'm so glad to see him here almost 30 -[2234.36 --> 2242.64] years ago today I work for advocate and I'm here for the purpose today to simply -[2242.64 --> 2249.78] say thank you God bless you for being involved in our baby bottle campaign I -[2249.78 --> 2256.44] have the privilege of connecting with churches on behalf of advocate and have -[2256.44 --> 2264.96] the unbounded pleasure of coming and being with you and saying thank you for -[2264.96 --> 2272.36] the difference you make many of you have probably taken a bottle home and filled -[2272.36 --> 2279.42] filled it up with coins or paper as you have seen fit and you might be asking -[2279.42 --> 2290.64] what difference does this really make is this just simply a symbol of support I -[2290.64 --> 2297.26] thought of how I might explain that to you how I might define it for you today and I -[2297.26 --> 2302.38] thought of statistics I thought of telling you about all the things we do as an -[2302.38 --> 2313.22] organization but I thought perhaps a story might be best and I'll make it quick in -[2313.22 --> 2320.54] February a young woman came into one of our centers as you know we have centers in -[2320.54 --> 2329.66] Langley and Abbotsford and Prince George and she came in and met with one of our staff and said could -[2329.66 --> 2341.20] you give me a pregnancy test and they said yes of course so after some conversation a pregnancy test -[2341.20 --> 2352.20] occurred and then she was asked would you like to have an ultrasound and the young woman said yes I'd like -[2352.20 --> 2363.20] that very much so our staff met with her and they gave her an ultrasound and it turned out that she was very -[2363.20 --> 2378.20] very far along in pregnancy as the probe went over her abdomen and they looked they could see the outline of a child in utero -[2378.20 --> 2393.18] this kid put on a show arms legs he might have even sort of been waving to say hello -[2393.18 --> 2403.34] it was that good the show was outstanding and the woman looked at the screen and tears welled up in her eyes and she said -[2403.34 --> 2408.94] how do I get rid of it -[2408.94 --> 2418.98] and so she said please direct me to the nearest facility where this can happen -[2418.98 --> 2422.46] our staff talked with her -[2422.46 --> 2426.26] and eventually she went on her way -[2426.26 --> 2429.04] two days later -[2429.04 --> 2432.14] a text comes in -[2432.14 --> 2434.30] and it's her -[2434.30 --> 2436.76] and she says -[2436.76 --> 2440.56] could I come back for another ultrasound -[2440.56 --> 2442.58] could I come back -[2442.58 --> 2443.82] with my boyfriend -[2443.82 --> 2447.58] they came into the center -[2447.58 --> 2452.12] they had the ultrasound -[2452.12 --> 2456.44] the young man sat in his chair watching the ultrasound -[2456.44 --> 2458.22] and he -[2458.22 --> 2461.12] saw everything that was occurring -[2461.12 --> 2462.92] but he was quite -[2462.92 --> 2464.86] emotionally turned off -[2464.86 --> 2467.06] until -[2467.06 --> 2468.88] that child -[2468.88 --> 2472.96] then put on an even better display -[2472.96 --> 2475.76] than a couple of days before -[2475.76 --> 2479.30] and all of the sudden -[2479.30 --> 2482.30] this young man -[2482.30 --> 2484.40] rises from his chair -[2484.40 --> 2485.58] and says -[2485.58 --> 2487.32] hold it -[2487.32 --> 2489.62] is that happening -[2489.62 --> 2490.88] right now -[2490.88 --> 2492.00] inside of her -[2492.00 --> 2496.54] and our staff members said -[2496.54 --> 2496.98] yes -[2496.98 --> 2498.56] indeed -[2498.56 --> 2501.62] quite a show -[2501.62 --> 2502.16] isn't it -[2502.16 --> 2505.76] the young man stopped -[2505.76 --> 2506.32] and said -[2506.32 --> 2509.14] I'm not religious -[2509.14 --> 2511.90] but I know -[2511.90 --> 2513.38] that God -[2513.38 --> 2514.12] did -[2514.12 --> 2515.10] that -[2515.10 --> 2520.60] the young woman -[2520.60 --> 2521.50] turned her head -[2521.50 --> 2522.36] from the wall -[2522.36 --> 2523.66] toward -[2523.66 --> 2525.74] her boyfriend -[2525.74 --> 2528.76] tears by this point -[2528.76 --> 2529.68] streaming down -[2529.68 --> 2530.34] her cheeks -[2530.34 --> 2530.64] smiling -[2530.64 --> 2534.88] and he says -[2534.88 --> 2539.54] this is our child -[2539.54 --> 2541.30] we are keeping -[2541.30 --> 2542.58] this -[2542.58 --> 2543.70] baby -[2543.70 --> 2548.16] the cost -[2548.16 --> 2549.72] of an ultrasound -[2549.72 --> 2552.68] is found -[2552.68 --> 2554.66] in one of those bottles -[2554.66 --> 2557.24] so -[2557.24 --> 2558.86] if you're tempted to think -[2558.86 --> 2559.68] if this bottle -[2559.68 --> 2561.08] is just a -[2561.08 --> 2561.68] symbol -[2561.68 --> 2564.18] it's much more than that -[2564.18 --> 2566.12] it is life -[2566.12 --> 2568.00] the Bible -[2568.00 --> 2568.76] tells us -[2568.76 --> 2570.50] in the words of Jesus -[2570.50 --> 2572.70] the evil one -[2572.70 --> 2573.52] comes to -[2573.52 --> 2574.42] seek -[2574.42 --> 2575.34] to -[2575.34 --> 2576.98] excuse me -[2576.98 --> 2578.38] to destroy -[2578.38 --> 2579.56] and lie -[2579.56 --> 2582.10] I have come -[2582.10 --> 2583.94] that they might have life -[2583.94 --> 2585.16] and have it -[2585.16 --> 2587.36] abundant -[2587.36 --> 2589.14] God bless you -[2589.14 --> 2590.66] thank you so much -[2590.66 --> 2591.86] for the chance -[2591.86 --> 2592.72] to be with you -[2592.72 --> 2593.72] here today -[2593.72 --> 2603.00] thank you -[2603.00 --> 2603.22] Phil -[2603.22 --> 2604.00] for that -[2604.00 --> 2607.32] our offering -[2607.32 --> 2607.82] this morning -[2607.82 --> 2608.54] will be for -[2608.54 --> 2609.62] New Ground -[2609.62 --> 2610.14] which was -[2610.14 --> 2610.58] formerly -[2610.58 --> 2611.82] Operation Manna -[2611.82 --> 2612.94] New Ground -[2612.94 --> 2613.60] is a program -[2613.60 --> 2614.04] that is -[2614.04 --> 2615.22] run by -[2615.22 --> 2616.22] the Diaconal -[2616.22 --> 2617.30] Ministries of Canada -[2617.30 --> 2618.92] their goal -[2618.92 --> 2619.44] and purpose -[2619.44 --> 2620.04] is -[2620.04 --> 2621.24] to connect -[2621.24 --> 2621.64] the gifts -[2621.64 --> 2622.30] of their churches -[2622.30 --> 2622.76] and leaders -[2622.76 --> 2623.46] to the ministry -[2623.46 --> 2624.04] opportunities -[2624.04 --> 2624.94] in their cities -[2624.94 --> 2625.76] and local neighborhoods -[2625.76 --> 2627.48] they do this -[2627.48 --> 2628.64] through community -[2628.64 --> 2629.88] opportunity scans -[2629.88 --> 2634.90] they provide -[2634.90 --> 2635.88] community -[2635.88 --> 2637.12] ministry support -[2637.12 --> 2638.70] an annual -[2638.70 --> 2639.56] youth justice -[2639.56 --> 2640.24] initiative -[2640.24 --> 2641.36] and -[2641.36 --> 2642.26] Deacon scholarships -[2642.26 --> 2643.36] among other things -[2643.36 --> 2645.64] so please give -[2645.64 --> 2646.70] as you're able to -[2646.70 --> 2647.36] if you want to give -[2647.36 --> 2648.26] to the general budget -[2648.26 --> 2649.16] or any other ministry -[2649.16 --> 2649.82] you can use -[2649.82 --> 2651.02] the envelopes -[2651.02 --> 2651.84] and the seats -[2651.84 --> 2652.78] in front of you -[2652.78 --> 2653.50] thank you -[2653.50 --> 2653.52] thank you -[2653.52 --> 2654.32] please -[2654.32 --> 2655.78] expand this -[2655.78 --> 2657.24] next time -[2657.24 --> 2665.52] to the -[2665.52 --> 2666.14] gathering -[2666.14 --> 2667.02] about us -[2667.02 --> 2668.86] we have to -[2669.10 --> 2671.64] to put -[2671.64 --> 2672.30] our -[2672.30 --> 2674.56] narcissistic -[2674.56 --> 2689.44] This is my desire to honor you -[2689.44 --> 2698.26] Night without my heart I worship you -[2698.26 --> 2714.50] All I have within me I give you praise -[2714.50 --> 2722.76] All that I adore is in you -[2728.26 --> 2737.26] Lord, I give you my heart I give you my soul -[2737.26 --> 2745.26] I live for you alone Every breath that I take -[2745.26 --> 2756.26] And love it my way I have your way in me -[2756.26 --> 2771.26] This is my desire to honor you -[2771.26 --> 2781.26] Night without my heart I worship you -[2781.26 --> 2798.26] All I have within me I give you praise -[2798.26 --> 2805.26] All that I adore is in you -[2805.26 --> 2820.26] Lord, I give you my heart I give you my soul -[2820.26 --> 2828.26] I live for you alone Every breath that I take -[2828.26 --> 2837.26] And love it my way I have your way in me -[2837.26 --> 2846.26] Lord, I give you my heart I give you my soul -[2846.26 --> 2854.26] I live for you alone Every breath that I take -[2854.26 --> 2864.26] And love it my way I have your way in me -[2864.26 --> 2879.26] I give you my heart I give you my heart I give you my heart -[2879.26 --> 2884.26] Good morning, I want to invite all the kids up to the front -[2884.26 --> 2891.26] Preschool to grade four We'll have a quick chat and then we'll head off to children's worship time -[2891.26 --> 2899.26] Come on up Last week Miss Amy introduced -[2899.26 --> 2903.26] Miss Amy introduced a new verse that we're focused on for a couple of Sundays -[2903.26 --> 2909.26] You guys remember what verse that is We only just started working on the memory verse -[2909.26 --> 2910.26] Shall I read it again? -[2910.26 --> 2913.26] It's from 1 Timothy -[2913.26 --> 2916.26] We're learning about Timothy and it's 1 Timothy 4 -[2916.26 --> 2919.26] It's one that probably a lot of us in the room know -[2919.26 --> 2921.26] Oh boy -[2921.26 --> 2925.26] Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young -[2925.26 --> 2931.26] But set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity -[2931.26 --> 2934.26] So last week you guys remember what it was that we learned about? -[2934.26 --> 2937.26] What's a good way to set an example even though we're really young? -[2937.26 --> 2939.26] It was? -[2939.26 --> 2942.26] Yeah, we can pray for anyone -[2942.26 --> 2944.26] Even though we're young we can pray for anyone, right? -[2944.26 --> 2946.26] That was last week's lesson -[2946.26 --> 2951.26] So this week we're gonna switch a little bit over to a different topic -[2951.26 --> 2954.26] And that is being leaders -[2954.26 --> 2957.26] Oh boy, that sounds like a big topic -[2957.26 --> 2958.26] So let me ask you something -[2958.26 --> 2959.26] Is there... -[2959.26 --> 2962.26] I can think of a game that's sort of like being a leader -[2962.26 --> 2965.26] It's called Simon Says -[2965.26 --> 2967.26] Do you guys know how that game works? -[2967.26 --> 2969.26] Yeah? How does it work? -[2969.26 --> 2971.26] What is Simon Says? -[2971.26 --> 2973.26] I can't do a lot of things -[2973.26 --> 2974.26] I can't do a lot of things -[2974.26 --> 2976.26] Oh, yeah, so there's all these rules -[2976.26 --> 2977.26] If Simon Says you do it -[2977.26 --> 2978.26] And if he doesn't -[2978.26 --> 2980.26] If you don't say Simon Says -[2980.26 --> 2981.26] And then you're out -[2981.26 --> 2982.26] Yikes -[2982.26 --> 2984.26] Well guess what I was thinking about this -[2984.26 --> 2985.26] As an example -[2985.26 --> 2987.26] Like oh maybe we should play this game -[2987.26 --> 2989.26] Maybe we should play it up in front of the church -[2989.26 --> 2993.26] Maybe we should make the whole congregation play Simon Says with us -[2993.26 --> 2994.26] No -[2994.26 --> 2996.26] But then I thought actually -[2996.26 --> 3000.26] Simon Says isn't really on point with what we're talking about -[3000.26 --> 3002.26] As being examples of being leaders -[3002.26 --> 3004.26] Because Simon Says it's a fun game -[3004.26 --> 3007.26] But it's maybe a little bit bossy -[3007.26 --> 3008.26] Right? -[3008.26 --> 3011.26] Like as a leader you just tell everybody what to do -[3011.26 --> 3013.26] And then if they don't do it right -[3013.26 --> 3014.26] Or you don't do it right -[3014.26 --> 3015.26] You're out -[3015.26 --> 3016.26] I don't know -[3016.26 --> 3018.26] I don't think that's quite what we're focused on -[3018.26 --> 3020.26] With this Bible verse -[3020.26 --> 3021.26] Right? -[3021.26 --> 3022.26] We can still play that game -[3022.26 --> 3025.26] But that's not quite the example we're gonna talk about today -[3025.26 --> 3026.26] In children's worship time -[3026.26 --> 3028.26] We do have another game though -[3028.26 --> 3030.26] That we're gonna play in children's worship time -[3030.26 --> 3032.26] To try and kind of learn the lesson a little bit more -[3032.26 --> 3035.26] But how about we bless the congregation -[3035.26 --> 3037.26] Before we head out -[3037.26 --> 3039.26] And they I think will probably bless us in return -[3039.26 --> 3040.26] So let's stand together -[3043.26 --> 3044.26] Alright -[3044.26 --> 3045.26] With our arms up -[3045.26 --> 3048.26] The Lord be with you -[3048.26 --> 3050.26] And also with you -[3050.26 --> 3051.26] Good morning my name is Clary -[3051.26 --> 3052.26] I'm an elder here at Emmanuel -[3052.26 --> 3053.26] We had a -[3053.26 --> 3054.26] Elder's council meeting this week -[3054.26 --> 3055.26] And I just wanted to talk about this -[3055.26 --> 3056.26] And I just wanted to show you -[3056.26 --> 3057.76] I'd like to ask you -[3057.76 --> 3060.26] good morning my name is Clary -[3060.26 --> 3063.26] I'm an elder here at Emmanuel -[3063.26 --> 3082.26] Good morning, my name is Clary. I'm an elder here at Emanuel. We had an elders council -[3082.26 --> 3087.82] meeting this week and I just want to give you just an update of what we talked about. -[3087.82 --> 3095.70] We reviewed the minutes of the spring AGM. We reviewed and accepted the retirement notice -[3095.70 --> 3104.44] from our church custodian of Grace VanderDean effective August 29, 2025. We discussed the -[3104.44 --> 3111.88] process of calling Kevin Lobert and we discussed if another town hall should be held. Council -[3111.88 --> 3119.60] agreed that another town hall meeting to discuss Kevin's calling would not be scheduled. Council -[3119.60 --> 3126.48] strongly encourages members to contact their elder if they wish to provide further feedback -[3126.48 --> 3134.62] or have questions. Council is hoping to schedule a meeting in mid-September to formally put forward -[3134.62 --> 3141.92] to the congregation a vote to call Kevin. And finally, we received an update from Pastor -[3141.92 --> 3153.62] Chris and Pastor Kevin. It was noted that Pastor Kevin is now eligible for call in the CRC. -[3153.62 --> 3174.50] Council is now eligible for call in the CRC. I'm Eric, an elder here at Emanuel, and I'll -[3174.50 --> 3183.60] lead you in our church family prayer. Lord Jesus, we come in our family church prayer. -[3183.60 --> 3190.78] to praise you. Clap your hands, all you nations. Shout to the Lord with cries of joy. For the Lord -[3190.78 --> 3196.84] most high is awesome and the great over all the earth. May God be gracious to us and bless us. -[3197.06 --> 3202.90] Make us face shine upon us so that your ways be known on earth, your salvation among the nations. -[3204.04 --> 3209.96] May the people praise you, God. May all the people praise you. This week, we praise you for the -[3209.96 --> 3217.18] marriage of Jenna Spoor and Lake Borasset. This past Friday, they were blessed in their marriage. -[3217.42 --> 3222.38] May you bless them with love and grace. May they both be deepened in their faith with you -[3222.38 --> 3225.38] as they begin their next chapter of life as a married couple. -[3225.38 --> 3232.64] May the people bless you. This is the time of year where most of our students, whether completing -[3232.64 --> 3239.52] their studies now or next week, some of us is graduation, whether from elementary, grade four, -[3240.02 --> 3246.38] high school, or even college and university. These are new stages and can be sometimes overwhelming. -[3246.56 --> 3251.84] Bless all the students in this summer in all their work, their holidays, and their life planning. -[3252.60 --> 3256.06] Show them that your way, Lord, teach them your path. -[3257.28 --> 3260.76] Synod affirmed the ministry for Kevin, for the ministry of the word, -[3260.76 --> 3266.56] and we thank you and praise you for that opportunity for Kevin to preach and worship amongst us. -[3267.24 --> 3271.62] We also think of Tanya Tessemaker as she continues to deal with her cancer in hospice. -[3271.76 --> 3276.14] We pray for peace and strength for her and her whole family during this difficult time. -[3276.96 --> 3281.04] We also think of Doug and Tessa as they also continue to deal with fighting of cancer. -[3281.04 --> 3287.38] May you comfort everyone on their journey and pray for healing and comfort, Lord. -[3288.76 --> 3292.26] Lord, at this time we also think of the changes the church has gone through -[3292.26 --> 3297.98] with Grace having served here for many years here, Lord, in her retirement, -[3298.16 --> 3302.66] and we think of also the elders and deacons that have changed over in the last month. -[3302.78 --> 3307.66] May you bless the newcomers and the outgoing people, Lord, and bless them in their journey. -[3307.66 --> 3315.54] Lord, we bless you as we go through our week and keep us grounded and rooted in your word. -[3315.94 --> 3317.86] In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. -[3317.86 --> 3317.98] Amen. -[3317.98 --> 3339.18] I want to encourage you to grab a Bible or open up the Bible that you have with you. -[3339.18 --> 3346.56] And we're going to finish the second letter to the Thessalonians today -[3346.56 --> 3354.28] and then finish our series looking at these two letters together. -[3354.44 --> 3359.56] And so we're going to read from 2 Thessalonians 3 starting at verse 6 -[3359.56 --> 3362.46] and we'll read through to the end. -[3362.46 --> 3367.46] If you would like a Bible, you can grab some from the back if you don't have one with you -[3367.46 --> 3369.38] or on a device for you there. -[3371.50 --> 3373.14] Let's read this together. -[3375.66 --> 3380.50] In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers and sisters, -[3380.50 --> 3385.60] to keep away from every believer who is idle and disruptive -[3385.60 --> 3389.54] and does not live according to the teaching you received from us. -[3389.54 --> 3395.38] For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. -[3396.68 --> 3399.26] We were not idle when we were with you, -[3399.64 --> 3402.56] nor did we eat anyone's food without paying for it. -[3402.96 --> 3406.40] On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling, -[3406.58 --> 3408.84] so that we would not be a burden to any of you. -[3409.86 --> 3414.28] We did this not because we do not have the right to such help, -[3414.32 --> 3417.80] but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate. -[3417.80 --> 3422.18] For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule, -[3422.72 --> 3425.62] the one who is unwilling to work shall not eat. -[3426.92 --> 3430.48] We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. -[3431.24 --> 3433.76] They are not busy, they are busy bodies. -[3435.12 --> 3438.20] Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ -[3438.20 --> 3440.78] to settle down and earn the food they eat. -[3440.78 --> 3445.84] And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good. -[3447.38 --> 3452.22] Take special note of anyone who does not obey our instruction in this letter. -[3453.50 --> 3456.88] Do not associate with them in order that they may feel ashamed. -[3457.72 --> 3462.60] Yet do not regard them as an enemy, but warn them as you would a fellow believer. -[3462.60 --> 3471.20] And now, may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. -[3471.92 --> 3474.00] The Lord be with all of you. -[3475.14 --> 3477.80] I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand, -[3478.08 --> 3480.52] which is the distinguishing mark in all my letters. -[3480.70 --> 3481.90] This is how I write. -[3482.50 --> 3486.04] The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. -[3486.72 --> 3487.82] This is the word of the Lord. -[3487.82 --> 3501.56] It seems to me that we live in a culture that is kind of caught between two poles. -[3502.42 --> 3506.38] On the one hand is the pull of productivity, -[3507.12 --> 3511.20] and on the other is the value of rest and healthy boundaries. -[3512.66 --> 3515.62] On the one hand, we want to be generous, -[3515.62 --> 3518.66] but we also fear being played. -[3520.44 --> 3522.20] Right, on one side, we're told to hustle, -[3522.58 --> 3525.50] to grind, to build, to perform, to produce, -[3526.04 --> 3530.78] and to make something of ourselves. -[3531.56 --> 3533.76] Productivity becomes not just a virtue, -[3534.18 --> 3535.50] but a source of identity. -[3536.38 --> 3537.94] You are what you accomplish. -[3538.90 --> 3540.88] Rest is something you earn, -[3540.88 --> 3543.24] but only after you've proven your worth. -[3543.24 --> 3546.48] And the result for many of us -[3546.48 --> 3548.30] is that we are exhausted -[3548.30 --> 3552.56] physically, emotionally, and spiritually. -[3554.40 --> 3555.74] And on the other side, -[3555.98 --> 3558.80] there's a deep and growing cynicism -[3558.80 --> 3563.14] that permeates towards need and those in need. -[3563.70 --> 3565.28] Right, we've seen too many headlines -[3565.28 --> 3567.42] about people gaming the system, -[3567.72 --> 3568.88] too many stories, -[3568.98 --> 3569.80] some of them true, -[3569.90 --> 3571.16] but honestly, most of them not, -[3571.16 --> 3574.42] about fraud or laziness or entitlement. -[3575.68 --> 3577.28] And so, what happens, right, -[3577.32 --> 3578.80] is we tighten our fists, -[3579.08 --> 3579.98] we get suspicious, -[3580.46 --> 3581.58] and we start asking, -[3581.82 --> 3583.20] are they really even trying? -[3584.32 --> 3585.58] The implication being, -[3585.94 --> 3587.02] do they deserve my help? -[3588.16 --> 3590.94] And we put up these emotional and relational walls -[3590.94 --> 3592.62] to protect ourselves -[3592.62 --> 3595.10] from being taken advantage of, -[3595.12 --> 3596.24] or at least feeling like -[3596.24 --> 3597.64] we're being taken advantage of. -[3597.64 --> 3600.46] And in the middle of all of this, -[3600.80 --> 3602.12] we try to, -[3602.22 --> 3603.80] or at least we say we want to, -[3603.96 --> 3605.00] live generously, -[3606.10 --> 3607.76] but we keep the receipts. -[3609.34 --> 3613.28] We track whether people are doing their part, -[3614.14 --> 3615.76] or are they doing the right thing -[3615.76 --> 3618.16] with the generosity that I have given them. -[3619.32 --> 3620.88] We start drawing lines, -[3621.02 --> 3622.52] consciously or unconsciously, -[3622.74 --> 3625.52] between the worthy and the unworthy. -[3625.52 --> 3627.84] And then again, -[3627.96 --> 3628.30] eventually, -[3628.50 --> 3629.96] we start to feel the weight -[3629.96 --> 3630.94] of our own effort, -[3631.90 --> 3634.00] of getting tired, -[3634.40 --> 3636.98] and we get tired -[3636.98 --> 3638.50] of doing good -[3638.50 --> 3640.00] when it feels like -[3640.00 --> 3641.54] no one else is trying to do the same. -[3643.28 --> 3644.52] And so we pull back. -[3646.22 --> 3647.48] Not because we're selfish, -[3648.32 --> 3650.26] but because we're disillusioned. -[3650.26 --> 3653.00] And the problem, -[3653.14 --> 3653.46] of course, -[3653.56 --> 3653.70] right, -[3653.72 --> 3656.16] is that neither one of these approaches works. -[3656.68 --> 3658.78] Hustle can't satisfy the soul, -[3658.94 --> 3660.04] it only burns you out. -[3661.16 --> 3663.30] And cynicism doesn't protect you, -[3663.38 --> 3664.98] it just isolates you -[3664.98 --> 3666.02] and makes you cold. -[3667.70 --> 3671.62] We try to manage the risks of generosity, -[3671.96 --> 3672.96] but in doing so, -[3673.06 --> 3674.60] we lose the joy of grace. -[3674.60 --> 3677.56] We try to create fairness, -[3677.88 --> 3679.04] but what ends up happening -[3679.04 --> 3680.40] is we forfeit mercy. -[3682.64 --> 3683.94] We need a better way. -[3684.90 --> 3687.06] A way that takes work -[3687.06 --> 3689.06] and working seriously -[3689.06 --> 3690.82] without turning it into an idol. -[3691.98 --> 3694.18] And a way that embraces generosity -[3694.18 --> 3695.36] without being naive. -[3696.04 --> 3698.12] And a way that holds people accountable -[3698.12 --> 3699.92] without giving up on them. -[3699.92 --> 3705.24] In a community shaped by grace, -[3705.92 --> 3707.34] what we will see here -[3707.34 --> 3709.50] in this last chapter -[3709.50 --> 3711.76] is that work is a gift, -[3712.64 --> 3714.68] that generosity is a calling, -[3715.06 --> 3715.90] and that accountability -[3715.90 --> 3717.76] is an act of love. -[3719.04 --> 3720.58] That's our big idea this morning, -[3720.66 --> 3722.50] that in a community shaped by grace, -[3722.72 --> 3723.70] work is a gift, -[3724.14 --> 3725.54] generosity is a calling, -[3725.92 --> 3728.26] and accountability is an act of love. -[3728.26 --> 3731.04] That is exactly what Paul is offering here -[3731.04 --> 3733.42] in 2 Thessalonians 3. -[3734.90 --> 3736.54] This chapter confronts -[3736.54 --> 3738.50] both of these ditches. -[3738.72 --> 3739.50] On the one hand, -[3739.58 --> 3740.62] the pull of productivity, -[3740.92 --> 3741.36] and on the other, -[3741.44 --> 3743.26] the fear of being played. -[3743.38 --> 3746.26] This chapter doesn't glorify busyness -[3746.26 --> 3748.36] like our culture tends to do, -[3748.64 --> 3752.30] but it calls us to a quiet faithfulness. -[3753.48 --> 3755.44] It doesn't excuse idleness, -[3755.44 --> 3756.86] but it roots discipline -[3756.86 --> 3759.48] in a community of mutual love. -[3760.34 --> 3762.22] And it doesn't shame generosity, -[3762.70 --> 3764.08] it calls for wisdom -[3764.08 --> 3765.98] without cynicism. -[3767.64 --> 3769.18] Now at the off here, -[3769.28 --> 3770.70] it's worth noting -[3770.70 --> 3772.54] that Paul, -[3773.28 --> 3775.40] in this second letter especially, -[3775.90 --> 3777.78] spends just as much time -[3777.78 --> 3778.96] warning Christians -[3778.96 --> 3780.36] who are idle -[3780.36 --> 3781.58] as he does -[3781.58 --> 3783.80] talking about the second coming of Jesus. -[3783.80 --> 3786.80] I want you to note that. -[3787.78 --> 3788.00] Right? -[3788.04 --> 3789.58] This is no small matter -[3789.58 --> 3790.54] to be dismissed. -[3792.82 --> 3794.38] And you probably heard it -[3794.38 --> 3795.70] when we read through it, -[3795.80 --> 3798.18] he uses pretty strong language here. -[3799.18 --> 3799.66] Right? -[3799.68 --> 3800.72] He's not just warning -[3800.72 --> 3801.80] those who are idle -[3801.80 --> 3802.50] and disruptive -[3802.50 --> 3804.16] to stop being idle, -[3804.44 --> 3806.28] he's telling other Christians -[3806.28 --> 3808.00] to keep away from them. -[3808.00 --> 3812.06] Now, -[3812.84 --> 3815.20] part of the response -[3815.20 --> 3817.92] that Paul is seeming to address here -[3817.92 --> 3819.20] is that there are people -[3819.20 --> 3820.12] in the community -[3820.12 --> 3821.56] who are being idle -[3821.56 --> 3823.54] and they connect that -[3823.54 --> 3824.52] to the idea -[3824.52 --> 3826.12] that they were apparently -[3826.12 --> 3829.76] anticipating Jesus' return -[3829.76 --> 3830.78] imminently, -[3831.06 --> 3832.54] like that he would come quickly. -[3832.92 --> 3834.10] And so because he would -[3834.10 --> 3835.48] come back quickly, -[3835.48 --> 3837.30] maybe they quit their jobs -[3837.30 --> 3838.28] or something like that -[3838.28 --> 3839.64] or they just stopped providing -[3839.64 --> 3840.88] for themselves -[3840.88 --> 3843.22] when they could have continued -[3843.22 --> 3844.06] because they thought, -[3844.18 --> 3844.90] well, it's all going to end -[3844.90 --> 3846.50] in a moment's notice anyway. -[3848.20 --> 3848.72] Now, -[3849.48 --> 3850.84] if you've been around -[3850.84 --> 3852.06] a church -[3852.06 --> 3853.30] for a period of time -[3853.30 --> 3854.34] or you've looked into -[3854.34 --> 3855.66] the early church -[3855.66 --> 3856.16] and the makeup -[3856.16 --> 3857.20] of the early church, -[3857.80 --> 3858.56] we know -[3858.56 --> 3859.88] that the early church -[3859.88 --> 3861.34] shared their possessions -[3861.34 --> 3861.96] in common. -[3862.56 --> 3863.14] We know -[3863.14 --> 3864.38] that they would sell things -[3864.38 --> 3865.38] in order to provide -[3865.38 --> 3866.36] for the needs of others. -[3866.66 --> 3867.20] We know -[3867.20 --> 3868.88] that the early leadership -[3868.88 --> 3869.72] of the church -[3869.72 --> 3871.24] established elders -[3871.24 --> 3872.44] and deacons -[3872.44 --> 3873.56] in order that -[3873.56 --> 3874.82] the ministry of the word -[3874.82 --> 3875.98] might not be neglected -[3875.98 --> 3877.30] and to ensure -[3877.30 --> 3878.80] that those on the margins -[3878.80 --> 3879.80] would be cared for. -[3880.88 --> 3881.70] The church -[3881.70 --> 3882.84] was a community -[3882.84 --> 3884.74] and is a community -[3884.74 --> 3886.44] that cares for one another. -[3888.68 --> 3891.12] And whenever you are willing -[3891.12 --> 3892.88] to care for one another, -[3892.88 --> 3894.72] whenever you are willing -[3894.72 --> 3895.66] to sacrifice -[3895.66 --> 3897.32] your own well-being -[3897.32 --> 3898.16] for the well-being -[3898.16 --> 3899.28] of those around you, -[3899.64 --> 3901.14] you run the risk -[3901.14 --> 3903.00] of being taken advantage of. -[3905.34 --> 3906.62] And in a community -[3906.62 --> 3907.70] where grace abounds, -[3907.90 --> 3909.44] I think that's a risk -[3909.44 --> 3910.24] that we must -[3910.24 --> 3911.44] willingly take. -[3912.58 --> 3912.98] Right? -[3913.04 --> 3914.44] The church's generosity, -[3915.00 --> 3916.22] the diaconal ministry -[3916.22 --> 3917.02] of the church, -[3917.02 --> 3919.82] the church's benevolence -[3919.82 --> 3921.06] must be -[3921.06 --> 3922.86] incredible to behold. -[3923.00 --> 3924.16] It must be prodigious -[3924.16 --> 3925.16] and liberal -[3925.16 --> 3926.18] and amazing -[3926.18 --> 3927.04] for all to see. -[3928.00 --> 3929.38] And when that happens, -[3930.34 --> 3931.88] you might get suckered. -[3934.00 --> 3935.40] There's actually a story -[3935.40 --> 3936.50] from the early church. -[3937.38 --> 3938.44] I've shared this -[3938.44 --> 3939.70] in other contexts before -[3939.70 --> 3941.96] that brings this tension -[3941.96 --> 3942.58] to life. -[3942.58 --> 3945.70] Lucian of Samosata, -[3946.08 --> 3947.78] who's a Greek satirist -[3947.78 --> 3948.56] and he's writing -[3948.56 --> 3949.54] nearing the end -[3949.54 --> 3950.70] of the second century, -[3951.44 --> 3952.58] he tells the story -[3952.58 --> 3954.46] of a man named -[3954.46 --> 3955.78] Peregrinus. -[3956.70 --> 3957.56] And now this story, -[3957.70 --> 3958.16] it's debated -[3958.16 --> 3959.24] if this is -[3959.24 --> 3960.56] a historical account -[3960.56 --> 3962.60] or it's a satirical account, -[3963.08 --> 3964.24] but it's offered -[3964.24 --> 3965.82] to make this compelling point. -[3967.52 --> 3968.16] Peregrinus, -[3968.38 --> 3969.58] Lucian says, -[3969.92 --> 3971.34] faked a conversion -[3971.34 --> 3972.32] to Christianity -[3972.32 --> 3974.02] in order to gain -[3974.02 --> 3975.16] influence -[3975.16 --> 3976.24] in certain -[3976.24 --> 3977.44] Christian circles. -[3978.48 --> 3979.62] And at one point, -[3979.96 --> 3981.66] Peregrinus is arrested -[3981.66 --> 3983.32] and the local Christians, -[3983.64 --> 3984.56] thinking that he might -[3984.56 --> 3985.30] be martyred, -[3985.68 --> 3986.78] start to bring him food. -[3987.50 --> 3988.44] They start to bring him money. -[3988.80 --> 3990.68] They even try to bribe -[3990.68 --> 3991.38] the guards -[3991.38 --> 3992.06] in order to make -[3992.06 --> 3993.72] his prison stay easier. -[3994.78 --> 3995.58] But eventually, -[3995.72 --> 3996.86] the governor of the region -[3996.86 --> 3997.80] releases him -[3997.80 --> 3998.64] because he doesn't want -[3998.64 --> 3999.50] to make him a martyr -[3999.50 --> 4001.18] and Peregrinus -[4001.18 --> 4002.60] goes to travel -[4002.60 --> 4003.46] the empire, -[4004.02 --> 4004.68] living off -[4004.68 --> 4005.86] Christian hospitality, -[4006.54 --> 4007.78] telling this story. -[4009.60 --> 4011.12] The way that Lucian -[4011.12 --> 4011.90] writes it, -[4011.98 --> 4012.82] he sneers -[4012.82 --> 4014.12] at the church's compassion. -[4014.66 --> 4015.30] He says, -[4015.34 --> 4016.24] and I'm going to quote here, -[4016.78 --> 4017.38] he says, -[4017.48 --> 4017.94] essentially, -[4018.32 --> 4019.32] these people -[4019.32 --> 4021.06] believe they're all brothers, -[4021.64 --> 4022.40] so that's Christians, -[4023.48 --> 4024.30] and that all things -[4024.30 --> 4025.22] are held in common, -[4025.22 --> 4027.38] so if a clever trickster -[4027.38 --> 4028.24] comes along, -[4028.38 --> 4029.38] he can get rich -[4029.38 --> 4030.74] off of their simplicity. -[4032.48 --> 4033.04] In short, -[4033.70 --> 4034.54] these are a gullible -[4034.54 --> 4035.30] bunch of people, -[4035.62 --> 4036.72] take advantage of them, -[4036.78 --> 4037.72] and get all their money. -[4039.34 --> 4039.90] And whether or not -[4039.90 --> 4040.56] it's true, -[4041.32 --> 4043.10] Lucian is recounting -[4043.10 --> 4045.04] a story of what Paul saw, -[4045.20 --> 4045.38] right? -[4045.48 --> 4047.20] Where grace flows -[4047.20 --> 4048.62] freely and readily, -[4049.18 --> 4050.14] someone will try -[4050.14 --> 4050.98] to exploit it. -[4050.98 --> 4053.04] And yet, -[4053.46 --> 4054.92] Paul doesn't shut down -[4054.92 --> 4056.12] that flowing of grace. -[4056.44 --> 4057.10] He doesn't say, -[4057.50 --> 4058.26] stop being generous. -[4058.76 --> 4059.08] Instead, -[4059.24 --> 4059.60] effectively, -[4059.76 --> 4060.08] he says, -[4060.42 --> 4061.08] be wise. -[4063.00 --> 4064.36] I think the point here -[4064.36 --> 4064.76] is that, -[4064.80 --> 4064.90] yeah, -[4065.02 --> 4066.16] you might get suckered, -[4066.78 --> 4067.94] but don't be a sucker. -[4068.94 --> 4069.82] Do you notice the difference? -[4070.84 --> 4072.04] Jesus will say -[4072.04 --> 4072.80] in Matthew 10, -[4073.44 --> 4073.70] he says, -[4073.82 --> 4075.00] I am sending you out -[4075.00 --> 4076.82] like sheep among wolves. -[4077.40 --> 4077.74] Therefore, -[4078.14 --> 4079.10] be as shrewd -[4079.10 --> 4079.82] as snakes -[4079.82 --> 4081.34] and as innocent -[4081.34 --> 4082.16] as doves. -[4083.48 --> 4084.42] I think this is -[4084.42 --> 4085.50] the same kind of idea. -[4086.46 --> 4086.64] Yeah, -[4086.72 --> 4087.68] you might get taken -[4087.68 --> 4088.54] advantage of. -[4088.72 --> 4089.64] That comes with -[4089.64 --> 4090.48] the territory, -[4091.06 --> 4092.34] but notice, -[4093.10 --> 4093.40] right, -[4093.44 --> 4094.28] there's an important thing -[4094.28 --> 4095.08] that's going on -[4095.08 --> 4097.00] in this text. -[4098.78 --> 4100.34] Paul says here -[4100.34 --> 4101.66] to keep away -[4101.66 --> 4103.64] from every believer -[4103.64 --> 4104.88] who is idle. -[4105.58 --> 4106.32] He says, -[4106.42 --> 4107.72] we hear that some of you, -[4108.26 --> 4109.04] and he's writing -[4109.04 --> 4109.72] to the church, -[4109.82 --> 4110.68] our idol. -[4111.44 --> 4112.72] He has this memorable line -[4112.72 --> 4113.04] that says, -[4113.16 --> 4114.08] they're not busy, -[4114.22 --> 4115.20] they're busy bodies, -[4115.54 --> 4116.78] and then in verse 15, -[4116.88 --> 4117.20] he says, -[4117.42 --> 4118.06] don't regard them -[4118.06 --> 4118.80] as an enemy, -[4119.06 --> 4119.88] but warn them -[4119.88 --> 4120.68] as you would -[4120.68 --> 4122.22] a fellow believer. -[4123.56 --> 4124.36] The point is, -[4124.46 --> 4125.28] Paul is talking -[4125.28 --> 4125.96] to people -[4125.96 --> 4126.58] who identify -[4126.58 --> 4127.56] as Christian, -[4127.66 --> 4128.54] who are part -[4128.54 --> 4129.38] of the system -[4129.38 --> 4130.80] of the emerging church -[4130.80 --> 4132.36] of the Thessalonians. -[4133.74 --> 4135.30] His hard word here -[4135.30 --> 4136.40] is for brothers -[4136.40 --> 4137.06] and sisters. -[4137.96 --> 4138.54] He's talking -[4138.54 --> 4139.50] about insiders, -[4139.60 --> 4140.04] he's talking -[4140.04 --> 4141.06] to insiders -[4141.06 --> 4142.32] about insiders. -[4143.46 --> 4144.66] He says in verse 10, -[4145.80 --> 4146.82] they have this rule -[4146.82 --> 4147.36] that if you're not -[4147.36 --> 4148.10] willing to work, -[4148.18 --> 4148.96] you shall not eat. -[4149.80 --> 4150.68] And he urges them -[4150.68 --> 4151.74] to settle down -[4151.74 --> 4153.12] and earn the food -[4153.12 --> 4153.74] that they eat. -[4154.42 --> 4155.02] Now, it's interesting -[4155.02 --> 4156.44] that, at least to me, -[4156.54 --> 4157.16] someone who enjoys -[4157.16 --> 4157.68] these things, -[4158.04 --> 4159.40] that word pair -[4159.40 --> 4160.52] that's translated -[4160.52 --> 4161.50] settle down -[4161.50 --> 4163.42] means work -[4163.42 --> 4164.32] a quiet life. -[4165.56 --> 4166.58] It's an echo -[4166.58 --> 4167.86] of an earlier call -[4167.86 --> 4168.88] that we saw -[4168.88 --> 4170.18] back in the first letter. -[4170.60 --> 4172.00] In 1 Thessalonians 4, -[4172.64 --> 4173.68] Paul writes, -[4173.80 --> 4174.78] make it your ambition -[4174.78 --> 4176.48] to lead a quiet life. -[4176.88 --> 4177.42] You should mind -[4177.42 --> 4178.04] your own business -[4178.04 --> 4179.02] and work with your hands -[4179.02 --> 4179.94] so that you will not -[4179.94 --> 4181.16] be dependent on anybody. -[4182.26 --> 4183.38] In another place, -[4183.48 --> 4183.96] in Timothy, -[4184.24 --> 4185.92] Paul reminds Timothy -[4185.92 --> 4192.78] to pray for those -[4192.78 --> 4193.40] in authority -[4193.40 --> 4194.74] that Christians -[4194.74 --> 4195.42] might be able -[4195.42 --> 4196.84] to live peaceful -[4196.84 --> 4198.36] and quiet lives -[4198.36 --> 4199.80] in godliness -[4199.80 --> 4200.76] and holiness. -[4201.84 --> 4202.48] Similarly, -[4202.64 --> 4203.52] he urges Titus -[4203.52 --> 4204.52] that our people -[4204.52 --> 4205.12] must learn -[4205.12 --> 4206.10] to devote themselves -[4206.10 --> 4207.36] to doing what is good -[4207.36 --> 4208.42] and not live -[4208.42 --> 4210.02] unproductive lives. -[4210.92 --> 4211.84] And it seems -[4211.84 --> 4212.74] pretty clear -[4212.74 --> 4213.32] that behind -[4213.32 --> 4214.68] all of this idea -[4214.68 --> 4216.84] is a contrast -[4216.84 --> 4218.54] that runs out -[4218.54 --> 4220.04] of the wisdom literature -[4220.04 --> 4221.46] of the Old Testament. -[4221.62 --> 4223.42] That deep in the wisdom -[4223.42 --> 4224.90] of the book of Proverbs, -[4225.10 --> 4226.78] there's a clear contrast -[4226.78 --> 4228.82] between being diligent -[4228.82 --> 4230.72] and being lazy. -[4230.94 --> 4231.36] And the one -[4231.36 --> 4232.78] who works steadily -[4232.78 --> 4234.10] and plans ahead -[4234.10 --> 4235.30] is considered wise, -[4235.64 --> 4236.16] while the one -[4236.16 --> 4237.32] who refuses to work -[4237.32 --> 4238.48] and who delays action -[4238.48 --> 4239.10] is portrayed -[4239.10 --> 4240.00] as the fool. -[4241.48 --> 4242.16] In short, -[4242.50 --> 4243.20] the biblical principle -[4243.20 --> 4244.16] is that hard work -[4244.16 --> 4245.02] is wisdom -[4245.02 --> 4246.28] and idleness -[4246.28 --> 4247.56] is folly. -[4249.26 --> 4250.08] And so for our time -[4250.08 --> 4250.72] that remains, -[4251.46 --> 4252.38] I want to spend -[4252.38 --> 4253.80] just a few minutes -[4253.80 --> 4255.36] pulling out -[4255.36 --> 4256.34] a few principles -[4256.34 --> 4257.80] for application -[4257.80 --> 4259.72] as a sort of beginning -[4259.72 --> 4261.02] of a theology -[4261.02 --> 4261.70] of work -[4261.70 --> 4262.90] for us. -[4265.70 --> 4266.82] Now it's interesting -[4266.82 --> 4267.38] to me -[4267.38 --> 4269.14] that in verse 6, -[4269.86 --> 4271.14] Paul says -[4271.14 --> 4271.64] that we need -[4271.64 --> 4272.22] to warn -[4272.22 --> 4273.38] every believer -[4273.38 --> 4274.20] who is idle -[4274.20 --> 4275.02] and disruptive, -[4275.56 --> 4276.22] who does not live -[4276.22 --> 4277.76] according to the teaching -[4277.76 --> 4278.92] that you have received -[4278.92 --> 4279.58] from us. -[4280.44 --> 4281.48] Maybe the Bible -[4281.48 --> 4282.00] you're reading -[4282.00 --> 4283.40] has a footnote there -[4283.40 --> 4284.86] and if you go down -[4284.86 --> 4285.92] it says traditions -[4285.92 --> 4287.08] or tradition -[4287.08 --> 4288.22] in the place -[4288.22 --> 4289.44] of the word teaching. -[4290.12 --> 4291.14] I would suggest -[4291.14 --> 4291.86] that a more accurate -[4291.86 --> 4293.10] translation of that word -[4293.10 --> 4294.90] is actually tradition. -[4294.90 --> 4295.36] tradition -[4295.36 --> 4299.02] is the lived -[4299.02 --> 4299.82] teaching. -[4301.16 --> 4301.72] Tradition -[4301.72 --> 4302.60] is teaching -[4302.60 --> 4303.94] put into practice. -[4305.08 --> 4305.66] And I think -[4305.66 --> 4306.66] the point here -[4306.66 --> 4307.78] is that it's not -[4307.78 --> 4308.62] just words -[4308.62 --> 4309.18] that have been -[4309.18 --> 4309.92] handed down, -[4310.04 --> 4311.04] not just commands, -[4311.36 --> 4312.36] but it's the lived -[4312.36 --> 4313.48] expression of that. -[4315.08 --> 4316.34] And so we know -[4316.34 --> 4316.94] that faith -[4316.94 --> 4317.84] comes from hearing -[4317.84 --> 4318.46] the gospel. -[4318.92 --> 4319.68] Faith comes from -[4319.68 --> 4321.04] believing that Jesus Christ -[4321.04 --> 4321.72] lived the life -[4321.72 --> 4322.44] I should have lived -[4322.44 --> 4323.50] and died the death -[4323.50 --> 4324.18] that I deserved. -[4324.36 --> 4325.18] We know that that -[4325.18 --> 4326.28] is the kind of faith -[4326.28 --> 4327.52] that saves -[4327.52 --> 4328.42] and that believing -[4328.42 --> 4329.36] that is all -[4329.36 --> 4330.42] we have to do. -[4332.28 --> 4333.98] But the point here -[4333.98 --> 4335.68] is believing that -[4335.68 --> 4337.06] changes everything -[4337.06 --> 4337.92] you do. -[4339.70 --> 4340.28] And so yes, -[4340.38 --> 4341.84] by grace through faith -[4341.84 --> 4342.80] we are saved -[4342.80 --> 4343.80] and that's all -[4343.80 --> 4345.36] we have to do -[4345.36 --> 4346.38] but coming out -[4346.38 --> 4347.80] of this new reality -[4347.80 --> 4348.44] for us -[4348.44 --> 4349.92] everything we do -[4349.92 --> 4351.10] is transformed. -[4351.10 --> 4353.02] saying yes -[4353.02 --> 4353.84] I believe -[4353.84 --> 4354.94] in the teaching -[4354.94 --> 4356.54] means accepting -[4356.54 --> 4357.36] and living -[4357.36 --> 4358.14] the tradition. -[4359.52 --> 4360.52] It's the modeled -[4360.52 --> 4361.90] example of Paul -[4361.90 --> 4362.72] and of the other -[4362.72 --> 4363.26] disciples. -[4363.76 --> 4364.76] It's the lived -[4364.76 --> 4365.44] expression -[4365.44 --> 4366.98] of Christians -[4366.98 --> 4368.70] that as the Bible -[4368.70 --> 4369.46] affirms -[4369.46 --> 4370.02] work -[4370.02 --> 4370.98] is -[4370.98 --> 4371.84] good. -[4373.28 --> 4374.26] And as we're -[4374.26 --> 4375.32] developing a theology -[4375.32 --> 4376.34] of work -[4376.34 --> 4377.16] that's the first -[4377.16 --> 4378.02] principle. -[4378.96 --> 4380.18] Work is good -[4380.18 --> 4381.28] and so -[4381.28 --> 4382.30] work hard. -[4384.06 --> 4385.02] As Christians -[4385.02 --> 4385.96] we know that -[4385.96 --> 4387.10] humanity -[4387.10 --> 4388.12] fulfills -[4388.12 --> 4389.02] the creation -[4389.02 --> 4389.84] mandate -[4389.84 --> 4391.76] through working -[4391.76 --> 4393.02] and keeping -[4393.02 --> 4393.96] what God -[4393.96 --> 4394.76] has given us. -[4395.64 --> 4396.78] This is Genesis 1 -[4396.78 --> 4397.74] and Genesis 2 -[4397.74 --> 4398.52] stuff. -[4398.68 --> 4399.80] And even in this -[4399.80 --> 4400.70] fallen world -[4400.70 --> 4401.54] where work -[4401.54 --> 4402.66] becomes toilsome -[4402.66 --> 4404.18] it still retains -[4404.82 --> 4405.68] part of its -[4405.68 --> 4406.00] goodness. -[4406.00 --> 4406.20] righteousness. -[4407.20 --> 4408.54] It is biblical -[4408.54 --> 4409.66] to work -[4409.66 --> 4410.42] hard. -[4411.36 --> 4412.66] In Colossians 3 -[4412.66 --> 4413.16] 23 -[4413.16 --> 4413.94] Paul says -[4413.94 --> 4415.58] whatever you do -[4415.58 --> 4416.60] work at it -[4416.60 --> 4417.14] with all your -[4417.14 --> 4417.60] heart -[4417.60 --> 4418.36] as working -[4418.36 --> 4419.34] for the -[4419.34 --> 4419.62] Lord. -[4421.70 --> 4422.70] Now practically -[4422.70 --> 4424.02] I've often -[4424.02 --> 4424.42] said -[4424.42 --> 4425.60] that Christian -[4425.60 --> 4426.14] bosses -[4426.14 --> 4427.00] should be -[4427.00 --> 4427.46] the best -[4427.46 --> 4427.86] bosses -[4427.86 --> 4428.40] that people -[4428.40 --> 4429.02] ever have. -[4430.50 --> 4430.72] Right? -[4430.84 --> 4431.26] Bosses who -[4431.26 --> 4431.64] are full -[4431.64 --> 4432.18] of grace -[4432.18 --> 4433.26] and encouragement -[4433.26 --> 4434.12] generous -[4434.12 --> 4434.76] in your -[4434.76 --> 4435.48] compensation -[4435.48 --> 4436.34] of your -[4436.34 --> 4436.92] employees -[4436.92 --> 4437.34] generous -[4437.34 --> 4438.20] with your -[4438.20 --> 4438.64] time -[4438.64 --> 4439.28] and availability -[4439.28 --> 4440.12] for them -[4440.12 --> 4441.76] but it's -[4441.76 --> 4442.60] also true -[4442.60 --> 4444.32] that Christian -[4444.32 --> 4445.18] employees -[4445.18 --> 4446.84] should be -[4446.84 --> 4447.48] among the -[4447.48 --> 4448.00] most hard -[4448.00 --> 4448.34] working -[4448.34 --> 4449.10] and diligent -[4449.10 --> 4450.06] employees -[4450.06 --> 4451.08] anyone has -[4451.08 --> 4451.54] ever had -[4451.54 --> 4453.08] because we -[4453.08 --> 4453.48] work for -[4453.48 --> 4453.90] the Lord. -[4454.62 --> 4455.02] We work -[4455.02 --> 4455.28] for the -[4455.28 --> 4456.04] glory of -[4456.04 --> 4456.36] God -[4456.36 --> 4456.68] and for -[4456.68 --> 4456.90] his -[4456.90 --> 4457.38] purposes. -[4458.30 --> 4458.74] Everything -[4458.74 --> 4459.52] we do -[4459.52 --> 4460.14] we do -[4460.14 --> 4461.34] in front -[4461.34 --> 4461.90] of his -[4461.90 --> 4462.62] face -[4462.62 --> 4463.10] as an -[4463.10 --> 4463.68] act of -[4463.68 --> 4464.34] worship -[4464.34 --> 4464.86] for what -[4464.86 --> 4465.50] he is -[4465.50 --> 4465.76] doing -[4465.76 --> 4466.10] in our -[4466.10 --> 4466.38] midst. -[4467.08 --> 4467.22] Now -[4467.22 --> 4469.84] don't hear -[4469.84 --> 4470.14] what I'm -[4470.14 --> 4470.66] not saying -[4470.66 --> 4472.48] because there's -[4472.48 --> 4472.80] a whole -[4472.80 --> 4473.32] generation -[4473.32 --> 4474.06] of people -[4474.06 --> 4475.26] who have -[4475.26 --> 4475.84] taken that -[4475.84 --> 4476.34] idea -[4476.34 --> 4478.08] and turned -[4478.08 --> 4480.08] the call -[4480.08 --> 4480.68] to work -[4480.68 --> 4481.24] hard -[4481.24 --> 4482.04] into the -[4482.04 --> 4482.74] idolatry -[4482.74 --> 4483.54] of busyness. -[4484.18 --> 4484.76] Right? -[4484.78 --> 4485.24] We have to -[4485.24 --> 4485.80] have the -[4485.80 --> 4486.90] right attitude -[4486.90 --> 4489.02] and we -[4489.02 --> 4489.54] shouldn't -[4489.54 --> 4490.16] make more -[4490.16 --> 4490.82] of work -[4490.82 --> 4491.40] than we -[4491.40 --> 4491.86] ought to -[4491.86 --> 4492.26] because that -[4492.26 --> 4492.92] turns work -[4492.92 --> 4493.74] into an -[4493.74 --> 4494.02] idol. -[4494.22 --> 4494.56] You shouldn't -[4494.56 --> 4495.06] make more -[4495.06 --> 4495.62] of work -[4495.62 --> 4496.10] than you -[4496.10 --> 4496.48] ought to -[4496.48 --> 4497.00] because then -[4497.00 --> 4497.50] that's all -[4497.50 --> 4497.86] you are -[4497.86 --> 4498.70] ever known -[4498.70 --> 4499.24] by or -[4499.24 --> 4499.86] know yourself -[4499.86 --> 4500.26] by. -[4501.70 --> 4502.52] But neither -[4502.52 --> 4502.94] should we -[4502.94 --> 4503.48] slide into -[4503.48 --> 4503.90] idleness. -[4506.06 --> 4506.78] Work hard -[4506.78 --> 4507.48] to glorify -[4507.48 --> 4508.50] God and -[4508.50 --> 4509.20] ensure that -[4509.20 --> 4509.78] we don't -[4509.78 --> 4510.98] unnecessarily -[4510.98 --> 4511.48] burden -[4511.48 --> 4512.40] others. -[4513.88 --> 4514.64] Work is -[4514.64 --> 4516.22] good and -[4516.22 --> 4516.64] so work -[4516.64 --> 4517.02] hard. -[4517.02 --> 4517.06] God. -[4518.66 --> 4519.24] The second -[4519.24 --> 4519.74] principle -[4519.74 --> 4520.94] in our -[4520.94 --> 4521.40] theology -[4521.40 --> 4521.94] of work -[4521.94 --> 4522.68] comes from -[4522.68 --> 4524.14] verse 13 -[4524.14 --> 4526.64] where Paul -[4526.64 --> 4527.06] says, -[4527.34 --> 4527.82] As for you, -[4527.92 --> 4528.40] brothers and -[4528.40 --> 4528.76] sisters, -[4528.96 --> 4529.92] never tire -[4529.92 --> 4531.60] of doing -[4531.60 --> 4532.60] what is -[4532.60 --> 4533.28] good. -[4535.16 --> 4536.02] I've already -[4536.02 --> 4536.86] indicated this, -[4536.96 --> 4537.66] but it can be -[4537.66 --> 4539.08] really easy, -[4539.62 --> 4541.38] especially if -[4541.38 --> 4541.80] you've been -[4541.80 --> 4542.52] taken advantage -[4542.52 --> 4544.00] of, but it -[4544.00 --> 4544.54] can be really -[4544.54 --> 4545.60] easy to become -[4545.60 --> 4547.48] apathetic and -[4547.48 --> 4548.42] to stop being -[4548.42 --> 4549.02] generous. -[4550.72 --> 4551.76] I can imagine -[4551.76 --> 4552.40] that for the -[4552.40 --> 4552.92] church of -[4552.92 --> 4553.58] Thessalonica, -[4553.84 --> 4554.58] it was really -[4554.58 --> 4555.30] easy for them -[4555.30 --> 4555.82] to look at -[4555.82 --> 4556.28] these brothers -[4556.28 --> 4556.98] and sisters -[4556.98 --> 4558.04] who were just -[4558.04 --> 4558.82] lazing around -[4558.82 --> 4559.48] and not doing -[4559.48 --> 4560.34] anything and -[4560.34 --> 4560.50] say, -[4560.56 --> 4560.94] What's the -[4560.94 --> 4561.26] point? -[4562.52 --> 4563.50] Why should I -[4563.50 --> 4563.92] give up -[4563.92 --> 4565.10] everything just -[4565.10 --> 4565.66] so they can -[4565.66 --> 4566.36] have it easy? -[4567.78 --> 4568.64] Or to put a -[4568.64 --> 4569.50] finer point on -[4569.50 --> 4571.80] it, why -[4571.80 --> 4572.46] should I keep -[4572.46 --> 4573.02] giving to the -[4573.02 --> 4573.98] benevolence fund -[4573.98 --> 4575.48] if those people -[4575.48 --> 4576.02] can't figure -[4576.02 --> 4576.48] their stuff -[4576.48 --> 4576.76] out? -[4579.40 --> 4579.98] Or why -[4579.98 --> 4580.48] should I keep -[4580.48 --> 4581.00] giving to the -[4581.00 --> 4582.06] food bank if -[4582.06 --> 4582.56] those people -[4582.56 --> 4583.34] aren't just -[4583.34 --> 4583.66] going to go -[4583.66 --> 4584.18] get a job? -[4586.12 --> 4586.82] Now, to be -[4586.82 --> 4588.90] clear, this -[4588.90 --> 4589.48] time hear what -[4589.48 --> 4589.92] I'm saying, -[4590.58 --> 4591.44] that is an -[4591.44 --> 4593.32] unjust, unfair, -[4593.50 --> 4594.22] and definitely -[4594.22 --> 4595.16] ungracious -[4595.16 --> 4596.34] assumption to -[4596.34 --> 4596.84] make and to -[4596.84 --> 4597.28] paint with such -[4597.28 --> 4597.90] a broad stroke. -[4599.84 --> 4600.44] But I know -[4600.44 --> 4600.86] you've thought -[4600.86 --> 4602.58] it, or let me -[4602.58 --> 4603.22] be more candid, -[4603.62 --> 4604.30] I know I've -[4604.30 --> 4604.66] thought it. -[4605.48 --> 4607.64] And you -[4607.64 --> 4607.94] know what's -[4607.94 --> 4608.72] really heartbreaking -[4608.72 --> 4609.52] to me about -[4609.52 --> 4609.80] this? -[4610.08 --> 4610.72] I've thought -[4610.72 --> 4611.48] that even -[4611.48 --> 4612.06] though there -[4612.06 --> 4612.62] was a time -[4612.62 --> 4613.34] in my life -[4613.34 --> 4614.04] where I -[4614.04 --> 4614.64] used a food -[4614.64 --> 4616.32] bank, where -[4616.32 --> 4617.06] I was dependent -[4617.06 --> 4618.10] upon a clothing -[4618.10 --> 4619.24] exchange so -[4619.24 --> 4619.62] that I could -[4619.62 --> 4620.66] have a tie to -[4620.66 --> 4621.06] the first -[4621.06 --> 4621.92] interview I -[4621.92 --> 4622.16] had. -[4623.28 --> 4623.94] I should -[4623.94 --> 4624.46] know better. -[4626.34 --> 4627.12] But we can -[4627.12 --> 4628.00] grow weary -[4628.00 --> 4628.94] of doing good -[4628.94 --> 4629.54] when it feels -[4629.54 --> 4629.98] like we're the -[4629.98 --> 4630.64] only ones doing -[4630.64 --> 4631.88] it, or when -[4631.88 --> 4632.32] it feels like -[4632.32 --> 4632.94] no one else is -[4632.94 --> 4634.10] willing to work -[4634.10 --> 4635.22] at it, and -[4635.22 --> 4635.70] when you look -[4635.70 --> 4636.36] around and -[4636.36 --> 4637.04] that's all you -[4637.04 --> 4638.88] see, it makes -[4638.88 --> 4639.58] you cynical, -[4640.66 --> 4642.94] bitter, or -[4642.94 --> 4643.80] even perhaps -[4643.80 --> 4644.68] worse, it makes -[4644.68 --> 4645.14] you proud. -[4646.72 --> 4647.74] And when those -[4647.74 --> 4648.68] kinds of thoughts -[4648.68 --> 4650.42] creep in, the -[4650.42 --> 4651.24] question of why -[4651.24 --> 4652.98] bother quickly -[4652.98 --> 4653.78] follows on its -[4653.78 --> 4654.02] heels. -[4655.72 --> 4656.50] And what Paul is -[4656.50 --> 4657.28] saying here is -[4657.28 --> 4658.54] don't listen to -[4658.54 --> 4659.28] that voice. -[4660.40 --> 4661.02] Don't be -[4661.02 --> 4661.80] distracted by -[4661.80 --> 4662.70] other people's -[4662.70 --> 4663.52] wrongdoings. -[4663.62 --> 4664.54] Instead, focus -[4664.54 --> 4665.14] on your -[4665.14 --> 4666.12] pursuit of -[4666.12 --> 4666.52] holiness. -[4667.70 --> 4668.24] What someone -[4668.24 --> 4669.02] else does with -[4669.02 --> 4670.14] your grace, with -[4670.14 --> 4670.96] your generosity, -[4671.14 --> 4671.72] isn't your -[4671.72 --> 4672.46] responsibility. -[4672.90 --> 4673.60] Your responsibility -[4673.60 --> 4674.72] is to simply be -[4674.72 --> 4675.80] gracious and be -[4675.80 --> 4676.28] generous. -[4677.20 --> 4678.16] Do not weary -[4678.16 --> 4679.90] in doing good. -[4683.16 --> 4684.00] Lastly, the -[4684.00 --> 4685.08] third principle -[4685.08 --> 4688.80] here recognizes -[4688.80 --> 4689.94] that we need -[4689.94 --> 4691.62] help, and we -[4691.62 --> 4691.94] need to be -[4691.94 --> 4693.14] reminded, and -[4693.14 --> 4693.52] we need to be -[4693.52 --> 4694.04] encouraged. -[4694.30 --> 4694.62] The third -[4694.62 --> 4695.54] principle here is -[4695.54 --> 4697.50] a willingness to -[4697.50 --> 4698.64] offer and -[4698.64 --> 4700.06] receive mutual -[4700.06 --> 4700.64] accountability. -[4702.34 --> 4703.12] Now, this is a -[4703.12 --> 4704.92] hard one, and -[4704.92 --> 4705.68] understandably, it's -[4705.68 --> 4706.20] not a popular -[4706.20 --> 4707.10] one, perhaps -[4707.10 --> 4707.98] especially in -[4707.98 --> 4708.62] today's culture. -[4710.08 --> 4710.90] But he's saying -[4710.90 --> 4712.06] that as part of -[4712.06 --> 4712.92] your obedience, -[4713.62 --> 4714.56] take note of the -[4714.56 --> 4715.38] people who aren't -[4715.38 --> 4715.90] obeying. -[4718.02 --> 4718.14] Right? -[4718.14 --> 4719.28] Silence in -[4719.28 --> 4720.80] disobedience is a -[4720.80 --> 4722.04] passive condoning or -[4722.04 --> 4723.22] approval of that -[4723.22 --> 4723.56] action. -[4725.06 --> 4725.48] And Paul says, -[4725.62 --> 4726.32] don't associate with -[4726.32 --> 4727.54] them, that they -[4727.54 --> 4728.42] might feel ashamed, -[4728.54 --> 4729.08] that they might be -[4729.08 --> 4730.30] made aware of what's -[4730.30 --> 4730.54] going on. -[4730.58 --> 4731.72] He wants them to -[4731.72 --> 4733.38] see their disobeying -[4733.38 --> 4734.26] and to repent. -[4735.54 --> 4736.36] And the whole -[4736.36 --> 4738.34] church has a part -[4738.34 --> 4739.60] to play in helping -[4739.60 --> 4740.52] one another see -[4740.52 --> 4741.22] this truth. -[4744.32 --> 4745.38] I'll never forget -[4745.38 --> 4746.90] when I had a group -[4746.90 --> 4748.98] of friends who -[4748.98 --> 4749.82] came out to -[4749.82 --> 4751.22] visit me in -[4751.22 --> 4751.98] order to sit me -[4751.98 --> 4752.92] down and have -[4752.92 --> 4753.64] what we in our -[4753.64 --> 4754.64] family call a -[4754.64 --> 4755.14] come-to-Jesus -[4755.14 --> 4755.78] conversation. -[4757.58 --> 4758.64] They came out to -[4758.64 --> 4759.30] hold me accountable. -[4760.58 --> 4761.48] And through their -[4761.48 --> 4762.64] concerns and through -[4762.64 --> 4764.10] their tears and out -[4764.10 --> 4764.74] of their mutual -[4764.74 --> 4765.70] love for me, they -[4765.70 --> 4766.32] had some hard -[4766.32 --> 4767.08] things to say. -[4768.36 --> 4769.06] And then God -[4769.06 --> 4770.20] used that to -[4770.20 --> 4771.74] help me hear and -[4771.74 --> 4772.66] see what had been -[4772.66 --> 4774.64] a blind spot and -[4774.64 --> 4775.02] to make some -[4775.02 --> 4775.36] changes. -[4775.36 --> 4777.22] that's what this -[4777.22 --> 4777.70] is about. -[4779.84 --> 4781.14] And despite Paul's -[4781.14 --> 4782.26] firmness and his -[4782.26 --> 4783.38] frustration, or -[4783.38 --> 4784.64] perhaps exactly in -[4784.64 --> 4785.48] it and because of -[4785.48 --> 4786.88] it, he's being -[4786.88 --> 4787.76] pastoral. -[4788.78 --> 4790.30] He longs for these -[4790.30 --> 4791.44] brothers and sisters -[4791.44 --> 4793.62] as just that, as -[4793.62 --> 4794.66] family members in -[4794.66 --> 4795.04] the Lord. -[4795.52 --> 4796.44] He desires -[4796.44 --> 4797.88] restoration and -[4797.88 --> 4798.60] faithfulness. -[4798.72 --> 4799.60] He desires their -[4799.60 --> 4801.16] obedience as the -[4801.16 --> 4802.32] only right way to -[4802.32 --> 4803.12] respond to the -[4803.12 --> 4804.00] grace of God given -[4804.00 --> 4804.94] to us in the -[4804.94 --> 4805.30] gospel. -[4806.62 --> 4807.40] And as a -[4807.40 --> 4808.96] community shaped by -[4808.96 --> 4810.40] grace, we need to -[4810.40 --> 4811.94] see work not as a -[4811.94 --> 4813.16] burden, but as a -[4813.16 --> 4813.52] gift. -[4814.82 --> 4815.96] As something we do -[4815.96 --> 4817.34] to honor God and to -[4817.34 --> 4818.16] care for those -[4818.16 --> 4818.98] around us. -[4818.98 --> 4819.66] As something that -[4819.66 --> 4821.58] God uses in his -[4821.58 --> 4823.06] providential rule of -[4823.06 --> 4824.56] the world to care for -[4824.56 --> 4825.64] his people and to -[4825.64 --> 4826.54] provide for them. -[4827.56 --> 4827.68] Right? -[4827.74 --> 4828.88] Generosity isn't just a -[4828.88 --> 4829.70] nice idea. -[4830.12 --> 4831.48] It's a calling to give -[4831.48 --> 4833.44] freely and sacrificially, -[4833.98 --> 4835.94] especially when it's -[4835.94 --> 4837.16] not easy or -[4837.16 --> 4837.66] convenient. -[4839.74 --> 4840.72] And accountability in -[4840.72 --> 4841.74] these moments isn't -[4841.74 --> 4843.42] just about judging or -[4843.42 --> 4844.56] shaming each other. -[4845.38 --> 4846.92] It's an act of love -[4846.92 --> 4848.84] that helps us stay -[4848.84 --> 4851.10] faithful and grow -[4851.10 --> 4852.20] together. -[4852.20 --> 4852.26] together. -[4855.26 --> 4858.50] And so this morning, as -[4858.50 --> 4861.78] we go from here, whether -[4861.78 --> 4862.94] it's into the ordinary -[4862.94 --> 4864.72] kinds of work that you -[4864.72 --> 4865.76] have to do or the -[4865.76 --> 4866.98] extraordinary kinds of -[4866.98 --> 4868.34] work that the Lord calls -[4868.34 --> 4869.38] you to, it's in the -[4869.38 --> 4871.64] everyday rhythms and -[4871.64 --> 4873.66] movements of your life. -[4873.68 --> 4875.38] As we go from here, it -[4875.38 --> 4877.76] is my prayer that we -[4877.76 --> 4880.08] might commit to living -[4880.08 --> 4882.14] out this truth -[4882.14 --> 4882.92] better. -[4883.42 --> 4884.48] That we might work -[4884.48 --> 4886.28] diligently and give -[4886.28 --> 4887.78] generously and that we -[4887.78 --> 4889.00] might hold one another -[4889.00 --> 4891.38] gently but firmly to the -[4891.38 --> 4892.42] standards of -[4892.42 --> 4893.32] faithfulness. -[4894.94 --> 4896.50] And so that might mean -[4896.50 --> 4898.22] asking yourself today, -[4898.92 --> 4902.06] how am I contributing to -[4902.06 --> 4903.78] the health of our -[4903.78 --> 4904.58] community? -[4906.26 --> 4907.68] It might mean asking -[4907.68 --> 4908.76] yourself today, if you -[4908.76 --> 4911.38] are willing, how am I -[4911.38 --> 4913.74] obstructing the health -[4913.74 --> 4915.10] of our community? -[4917.58 --> 4919.00] But for sure it means -[4919.00 --> 4921.10] asking yourself, where -[4921.10 --> 4921.92] can I step up? -[4922.40 --> 4923.40] Where can I step up in -[4923.40 --> 4923.74] work? -[4924.04 --> 4925.04] Where can I step up in -[4925.04 --> 4925.52] generosity? -[4925.92 --> 4927.02] And where can I step up -[4927.02 --> 4928.52] in loving accountability? -[4929.84 --> 4930.94] It's my prayer that -[4930.94 --> 4932.66] together we would be a -[4932.66 --> 4933.76] church that is known for -[4933.76 --> 4935.06] all three of these. -[4936.36 --> 4938.16] Not one to the exclusion of -[4938.16 --> 4939.84] the other or two to the -[4939.84 --> 4941.56] exclusion of a third, but -[4941.56 --> 4943.72] that in all three ways we -[4943.72 --> 4945.76] might genuinely believe that -[4945.76 --> 4948.00] work is good and work hard. -[4948.10 --> 4950.04] We might genuinely practice a -[4950.04 --> 4951.54] generosity that is -[4951.54 --> 4953.62] prodigious and unyielding in -[4953.62 --> 4955.44] the face of bitterness and -[4955.44 --> 4955.96] criticism. -[4957.14 --> 4960.44] And that we might lovingly hold -[4960.44 --> 4962.22] one another accountable to -[4962.22 --> 4964.22] this kind of gospel-saturated -[4965.06 --> 4966.56] life together. -[4967.36 --> 4969.04] That, I think, is a -[4969.04 --> 4971.54] beautiful story worth telling. -[4972.26 --> 4972.52] Amen? -[4973.32 --> 4974.34] Let's pray together. -[4979.62 --> 4982.70] Holy God, as we come before -[4982.70 --> 4990.04] you, we confess that idleness, -[4992.20 --> 4995.80] laziness, sloth are easy -[4995.80 --> 4997.90] realities at certain times. -[4998.98 --> 5003.68] We confess that cynicism, -[5004.86 --> 5009.02] bitterness, and apathy creep in -[5009.02 --> 5010.22] at times. -[5012.04 --> 5013.68] And we confess that we, -[5015.84 --> 5017.86] in fear of how others might -[5017.86 --> 5022.74] respond, don't always lay the -[5022.74 --> 5024.48] burdens that you, the Holy -[5024.48 --> 5025.88] Spirit, put on our hearts for -[5025.88 --> 5026.20] them. -[5026.82 --> 5027.98] We don't always express them. -[5029.66 --> 5031.32] And we confess that we don't -[5031.32 --> 5034.16] always receive accountability as -[5034.16 --> 5036.26] your means of grace to us. -[5036.26 --> 5039.68] And so in this confession, Lord -[5039.68 --> 5041.26] Jesus, hear our prayer and -[5042.00 --> 5043.52] remind us again of the gospel -[5043.52 --> 5046.26] truth that you love us and -[5046.96 --> 5048.76] that out of that deep love for -[5048.76 --> 5050.56] us, you came into the world in -[5050.56 --> 5052.60] Christ Jesus and you demonstrated -[5052.60 --> 5054.56] that love in perfectly keeping -[5054.56 --> 5056.58] all the commands of the law and -[5056.58 --> 5058.64] in perfectly expressing what it -[5058.64 --> 5061.24] means to be a lavishly loved -[5061.24 --> 5062.46] child of the Father. -[5062.46 --> 5067.12] and that though innocent, you -[5067.12 --> 5069.78] died for us, sinners. -[5073.98 --> 5077.42] May we see that cross of mercy -[5077.42 --> 5078.14] and grace. -[5079.30 --> 5081.30] May we see the truth of the -[5081.30 --> 5083.76] empty tomb and may we be raised in -[5083.76 --> 5085.76] newness of life by the power of your -[5085.76 --> 5088.60] Spirit to live compelling lives where -[5088.60 --> 5092.94] work is good, where generosity is -[5092.94 --> 5096.04] abundant, and where we walk -[5096.04 --> 5098.24] together being transformed into -[5098.24 --> 5099.96] the image of your Son, Jesus -[5099.96 --> 5102.46] Christ, our Savior, in whose name -[5102.46 --> 5103.04] we pray. -[5103.96 --> 5104.36] Amen. -[5104.36 --> 5104.42] Amen. -[5105.42 --> 5105.90] Amen. -[5118.60 --> 5124.56] For you I hail my master and maker -[5124.56 --> 5129.46] To honor the work of my hands -[5129.46 --> 5133.64] For this is the day you've given your -[5133.64 --> 5134.24] soul -[5134.24 --> 5139.44] I will rejoice and be glad -[5139.44 --> 5143.62] For all the strength I have to live and -[5143.62 --> 5144.48] bring -[5144.48 --> 5149.40] For each day your grace has given me -[5149.40 --> 5153.84] For the needs and opportunities -[5153.84 --> 5157.70] That will glorify your grace -[5157.70 --> 5172.72] Before you I kneel and ask for your goodness -[5172.72 --> 5177.54] To cover the work of my hands -[5177.54 --> 5179.94] For patience and peace -[5179.94 --> 5182.68] To shame all my labor -[5182.68 --> 5187.72] Your grace for the words in my hand -[5187.72 --> 5192.70] For all will give me like a living stream -[5192.70 --> 5197.58] Wear away the soul to thine and be -[5197.58 --> 5202.46] Till your ways are dwelling deep in me -[5202.46 --> 5207.28] And a harvest of life is grown -[5207.28 --> 5207.98] Woman heaven in me -[5207.98 --> 5208.90] with the burden on the shining -[5208.90 --> 5211.04] Thin fellow -[5211.04 --> 5212.42] God -[5212.42 --> 5213.58] солн��ral -[5213.58 --> 5214.14] God -[5214.14 --> 5215.64] May -[5215.64 --> 5216.30] Spirit -[5216.30 --> 5216.66] Song -[5216.66 --> 5216.78] God -[5216.90 --> 5217.18] eg -[5217.18 --> 5247.16] Thank you. -[5247.18 --> 5277.16] Thank you. -[5277.18 --> 5286.78] In every small and great task, may we lift the gospel of your grace. -[5287.28 --> 5291.64] Serve your purpose as our fleeting days. -[5292.30 --> 5296.56] Then our lives will bring eternal grace. -[5296.56 --> 5300.42] And our glory to your release. -[5301.52 --> 5305.56] And our glory to your release. -[5305.56 --> 5334.30] As we end today and go into this week, I'm going to pronounce over us again the blessing from Paul at the end of 2 Thessalonians. -[5334.30 --> 5340.08] Thessalonians. Before we go, just an encouragement, stick around after our service for some fellowship -[5340.08 --> 5344.74] and some gathering time together as well. If you're looking to pray with someone or to meet -[5344.74 --> 5348.76] with someone, there will be someone up here with a yellow name tag on who would love to meet you -[5348.76 --> 5355.12] and pray with you. You can also find one of the elders in our church. Many of them should be -[5355.12 --> 5361.36] wearing name tags as well, or you can grab me in the foyer afterwards as well. Receive the blessing -[5361.36 --> 5364.72] of God for the week ahead. -[5367.64 --> 5377.46] Now, may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all -[5377.46 --> 5383.54] of you. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. -[5391.36 --> 5421.34] There is a Redeemer, Jesus God and Son. Precious and Son of God. -[5421.34 --> 5422.34] Amen. -[5422.34 --> 5423.34] Amen. -[5423.34 --> 5424.34] Amen. -[5424.34 --> 5451.32] Thank you all my Father for giving us your Son and leaving your Spirit till the world on earth is done. -[5451.32 --> 5457.98] Jesus, my Redeemer, -[5457.98 --> 5463.98] Name above all names, -[5464.44 --> 5468.98] Precious Lamb of God, Messiah, -[5469.84 --> 5473.98] O for sinners slain. -[5475.18 --> 5479.98] Thank you, my Father, -[5479.98 --> 5485.88] For giving us your Son, -[5486.24 --> 5490.26] And leading your Spirit -[5490.26 --> 5496.46] Till the world on earth is done. -[5498.00 --> 5502.86] When I stand in glory, -[5503.60 --> 5509.04] I will see His face, -[5509.04 --> 5513.94] May I serve my King forever, -[5514.94 --> 5519.04] In that holy name. -[5520.76 --> 5525.62] Thank you, my Father, -[5525.62 --> 5531.52] For giving us your Son, -[5531.52 --> 5535.90] And leading your Spirit -[5535.90 --> 5542.52] Till the world on earth is done. -[5542.52 --> 5548.42] Thank you, my Father, -[5548.42 --> 5549.42] Thank you, my Father, -[5549.42 --> 5555.42] For giving us your Son, -[5555.42 --> 5560.42] And leaving your Spirit -[5560.42 --> 5568.24] Till the work on earth is done. -[5568.24 --> 5571.14] Felassen you, ten guest of the Lord, -[5571.14 --> 5575.60] Let us come through the fullness of life, -[5575.90 --> 5577.80] And in our hearts, -[5577.80 --> 5580.08] Until the wrath. -[5580.08 --> 5581.12] And with the Lord吸 in God, -[5581.12 --> 5585.02] In our hearts you will enduring your Son, -[5585.22 --> 5586.00] And in the Holy Spirit, -[5586.00 --> 5587.98] through the感謝 of life, -[5588.06 --> 5590.02] victory by life, -[5590.16 --> 5590.42] or Maeveha, -[5590.42 --> 5590.84] Selbst wenn I shall be known Come into ép -[5590.84 --> 5591.40] Then with you, -[5591.52 --> 5592.50] And with you, -[5592.50 --> 5622.48] Thank you. -[5622.50 --> 5652.48] Thank you. -[5652.50 --> 5682.48] Thank you. -[5682.50 --> 5712.48] Thank you. -[5712.50 --> 5742.48] Thank you. -[5742.50 --> 5772.48] Thank you. -[5772.50 --> 5802.48] Thank you. -[5802.50 --> 5832.48] Thank you. -[5832.50 --> 5862.48] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, June 29, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, June 29, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6be71958679fe10fdec3c4993c21a58b2ff54731..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, June 29, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,44 +0,0 @@ -• Repetition of "Thank you" -• A person praying, possibly in a group setting -• References to Jesus Christ, God, and the Lord -• Quotations from scripture or prayer, including Ezekiel 37:4 ("Can these bones live") -• Invitations for participation or questions -• Requests for healing and assistance -• Updates on Enika's sister Tessa and Clary's sister Joan regarding their cancer treatments -• Prayer requests for continued healing and recovery -• Church members' gratitude for answered prayers -• Graduation celebrations for high school students in the congregation and Langley Christian School -• Blessings for the church leadership, ministries, and graduates entering new chapters of life -• Thanksgivings for the church family, summer activities, and missionary team returning from the Philippines -• Prayers for peace in various global conflicts -• Prayers for congregation members dealing with cancer, including Tanya Tester, Doug Kendon, and Clary's sister Joan -• Starting a summer series through the Gospel of Matthew, focusing on the birth of Jesus -• Reading Matthew 1:18-23 as the starting point for the series -• Using the story of Jesus' birth to illustrate the theme of a good king or leader who brings hope and justice in a world filled with corruption and power struggles. -• The feeling of being overwhelmed by scandals and compromises in public figures -• The struggle for control and self-image, even in our personal lives -• The illusion of being in control and the anxiety that comes with it -• Longing for a true leader or king who can save us -• Introduction to a summer series called "Behold Your King" focused on Jesus as the living king -• Explanation of how Jesus is the true promised king, goal of God's covenant story, hope of the world, and lord who calls us to belong to him -• Discussion of the genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1:1-17, highlighting its connection to the beginning of the Bible in Genesis 1:1 -• Discussion of King Ahaz and Manasseh's sacrifices and genealogy in relation to the story of Jesus -• Exploration of how one's past or family background does not exclude them from God's kingdom -• Analysis of the Gospel of Matthew's emphasis on Jesus' royal lineage and connection to the line of David -• Explanation of Jesus as the long-expected king, fulfilling God's promises and prophecies -• Discussion of Abraham as a key figure in the story, and how Jesus is the seed of Abraham -• Examination of Jesus' mission and commission to spread his teachings globally -• The nature of Jesus as a loving and righteous king who saves by substitution, not domination -• The importance of seeing God's activity in one's life and asking others about their experiences with God -• The significance of prayerfully seeking God's presence and action in one's life -• The truth that Jesus is God and the only way to be made right with Him -• The call to trust, worship, and follow Jesus as King and Lord -• Praying to focus on God and be transformed by His renewing power -• Reading and reflecting on scripture about faith, vision, and obedience -• Commissioning believers to go out and proclaim Jesus to the world -• Announcing a food drive and inviting volunteers to sign up -• Encouraging prayer and connection with others for spiritual support -• The speaker quotes a passage about Jesus reigning as the King of all Kings and Lord of all Lords -• Angels cry out in praise, calling Him the Lamb who was slain for the world -• The phrase "rule in mind" is mentioned -• The passage is repeated multiple times with slight variations in wording \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, June 29, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, June 29, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index fb584fda4fa2a9658476ef7043ddfb6704ec2a16..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, June 29, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,540 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 599.98] Thank you. -[600.00 --> 629.98] Thank you. -[630.00 --> 659.98] Thank you. -[660.00 --> 689.98] Thank you. -[690.00 --> 719.98] Thank you. -[720.00 --> 749.98] Thank you. -[749.98 --> 779.96] Good morning. -[779.96 --> 809.94] Thank you. -[809.94 --> 839.92] Thank you. -[839.94 --> 869.92] Thank you. -[869.94 --> 899.92] Thank you. -[899.94 --> 929.92] Thank you. -[929.92 --> 959.90] Thank you. -[959.92 --> 989.90] Thank you. -[989.90 --> 1019.88] Thank you. -[1019.88 --> 1049.88] Thank you. -[1049.88 --> 1079.86] Thank you. -[1079.88 --> 1109.86] Thank you. -[1109.86 --> 1139.84] Thank you. -[1139.86 --> 1169.84] Thank you. -[1169.86 --> 1199.84] Thank you. -[1199.84 --> 1229.82] Thank you. -[1229.82 --> 1259.80] Thank you. -[1259.80 --> 1289.78] You will have you. -[1289.78 --> 1319.76] Thank you. -[1319.78 --> 1349.76] Why should I lose you. -[1349.76 --> 1379.74] Thank you. -[1379.76 --> 1409.74] Thank you. -[1409.76 --> 1439.74] Thank you. -[1439.74 --> 1469.72] Thank you. -[1469.74 --> 1499.72] Thank you. -[1499.74 --> 1529.72] Thank you. -[1529.74 --> 1559.72] You are the source. -[1559.74 --> 1589.72] You are the hope. -[1589.72 --> 1619.70] Thank you. -[1619.70 --> 1649.68] Thank you. -[1649.70 --> 1679.68] Thank you. -[1679.70 --> 1709.68] This prayer. -[1709.68 --> 1739.66] Thank you. -[1739.68 --> 1769.66] Thank you. -[1769.68 --> 1799.66] I believe in Jesus. -[1799.68 --> 1829.66] And I believe in you. -[1829.66 --> 1859.64] I believe you are the Lord. -[1859.64 --> 1889.62] I believe in you. -[1889.62 --> 1919.60] You died and rose. -[1919.60 --> 1949.58] And the grace to heal. -[1949.58 --> 1979.56] You are the Lord. -[1979.56 --> 2009.54] Lamb who was the Lord. -[2009.54 --> 2039.52] And the Lord. -[2039.52 --> 2069.50] You are the Lord. -[2069.50 --> 2099.48] And the Lord. -[2099.48 --> 2129.46] You are the Lord. -[2129.46 --> 2159.44] And the Lord. -[2159.46 --> 2189.44] And the Lord. -[2189.44 --> 2219.42] who is the Lord. -[2219.42 --> 2249.40] And the Lord. -[2249.40 --> 2279.38] And the Lord. -[2279.38 --> 2309.36] Can these bones live. -[2309.36 --> 2339.34] I'm going to invite. -[2339.34 --> 2369.32] And the Lord. -[2369.32 --> 2399.30] These four questions. -[2399.30 --> 2429.28] And the Lord. -[2429.28 --> 2459.26] And the Lord. -[2459.26 --> 2489.24] And the Lord. -[2489.24 --> 2519.22] And the Lord. -[2519.22 --> 2549.20] God, God. -[2549.20 --> 2579.18] Help us now. -[2579.18 --> 2609.16] We also. -[2609.16 --> 2639.14] as the Lord. -[2639.14 --> 2669.14] -[2669.14 --> 2699.14] -[2699.14 --> 2729.12] and the Lord. -[2729.12 --> 2759.10] in His wonderful face. -[2759.10 --> 2761.10] and the Lord. -[2789.10 --> 2791.10] and the Lord. -[2791.10 --> 2793.10] and the Lord. -[2793.10 --> 2794.10] O Jesus. -[2794.10 --> 2796.10] and the Lord. -[2796.10 --> 2798.10] and the Lord. -[2798.10 --> 2800.10] and the Lord. -[2800.10 --> 2802.10] and the Lord. -[2802.10 --> 2804.10] and the Lord. -[2804.10 --> 2806.10] and the Lord. -[2806.10 --> 2808.10] and the Lord. -[2808.10 --> 2810.10] and the Lord. -[2810.10 --> 2812.10] and the Lord. -[2812.10 --> 2813.10] and the Lord. -[2813.10 --> 2814.10] and the Lord. -[2814.10 --> 2815.10] and the Lord. -[2815.10 --> 2817.10] Christ, the Lord. -[2817.10 --> 2818.10] and the Lord. -[2818.10 --> 2820.10] and the Lord. -[2820.10 --> 2822.10] and the Lord. -[2822.10 --> 2823.10] and the Lord. -[2823.10 --> 2826.10] and the Lord. -[2826.10 --> 2829.10] and the Lord. -[2829.10 --> 2831.10] and the Lord. -[2831.10 --> 2833.10] we Pu'en through the Lord. -[2833.10 --> 2834.10] and the Lord. -[2834.10 --> 2836.10] and the Lord. -[2836.10 --> 2837.10] and the Lord. -[2837.10 --> 2838.10] and the Lord His name is这样 of us, -[2838.10 --> 2839.10] 神 human IDs. -[2839.10 --> 2840.10] and the Lord. -[2840.10 --> 2841.10] and all years -[2841.10 --> 2843.10] and O emotions will death. -[2843.10 --> 2844.06] and the Lord. -[2844.06 --> 2844.10] in love. -[2844.10 --> 2846.10] center of the Lord. -[2846.10 --> 2854.90] we'll behold you our savior ever true oh jesus we turn our eyes to -[2861.14 --> 2871.30] turn your eyes to the heavens our king will return for his own -[2871.30 --> 2884.02] every knee will bow every tongue will shout all glory to jesus alone -[2886.74 --> 2896.34] jesus to you we lift our eyes jesus our glory and our prize -[2896.34 --> 2908.58] we adore you behold you our savior ever true oh jesus we turn our eyes to you -[2911.38 --> 2920.34] jesus to you we lift our eyes jesus our glory and our prize -[2920.34 --> 2933.38] jesus we turn our eyes to you -[2933.38 --> 2947.38] jesus we turn our eyes to you -[2947.38 --> 2966.90] all right it is now the summer time and so i'm going to invite up really any kid who wants to -[2966.90 --> 2973.14] come up but especially everybody who's three to kindergarten aged you can come forward now maybe -[2973.14 --> 2979.38] this you guys are so fast look at that i did come to your house that's true -[2981.38 --> 2985.54] all right we're going to go off to children's worship time and have some fun with our teachers -[2985.54 --> 2989.94] back there but before we go can i pray with you yeah and then we'll do the blessing we'll see if -[2989.94 --> 2994.26] we can do the blessing so loud even though there's only a few of us up here do you think we can do that -[2994.90 --> 2999.62] yeah all right let's pray okay first dear god we thank you so much that we are able to come to church -[2999.62 --> 3003.94] today and we pray that you'll be with us kids as we go to children's worship time and with the -[3003.94 --> 3009.54] grown-ups as we stay back here too and maybe all learn more about jesus today we pray this in your name -[3010.10 --> 3015.06] amen okay we're going to stand up okay can we stand up and the church is going to two and then -[3015.70 --> 3019.62] i'm going to count down from three and then we're going to say the lord be with you together okay and -[3019.62 --> 3033.62] we're going to do that nice and loud are you ready one two three -[3033.62 --> 3050.98] good morning my name is dave i'm one of the elders for this congregation before i begin my -[3050.98 --> 3057.38] prayer i do have two updates and two prayer requests um enika tells me we've been praying for -[3057.38 --> 3060.98] her sister tessa for quite a long time with her her deal with cancer -[3061.70 --> 3068.74] we have the update that her chemotherapy is done there will be more scans and tests to come -[3068.74 --> 3074.66] but she is feeling much better so this is all good and clary has told us about his sister joan -[3075.46 --> 3081.46] she also has cancer she has finished radiation treatment she is in good spirits and waiting for -[3081.46 --> 3087.70] an update so answers to prayer will you join me in our church family prayer -[3090.98 --> 3097.94] oh father we echo the words of the psalmist come let us sing for joy to the lord let us shout aloud to -[3097.94 --> 3103.78] the rock of our salvation let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song -[3103.78 --> 3110.02] for the lord is the great god the great king above all gods come let us bow down and worship let us kneel -[3110.02 --> 3116.02] before their lord our maker for he is our god and we are the people of his pasture the flock under his care -[3116.98 --> 3122.50] father it is our joy to be here every sunday as members of the christian community and members of -[3122.50 --> 3128.02] christ's body we gather to celebrate the love that you show your people and we sing praises to your name -[3128.02 --> 3134.26] father it is very important that we remember to confess our many sins before you in the words of -[3134.26 --> 3140.50] king david for day and night your hand was heavy on me my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer -[3141.06 --> 3147.30] then i acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity i said i will confess my transgressions -[3147.30 --> 3153.78] to the lord and you forgave the guilt of my sin father we know that we need to confess that we are sinful -[3153.78 --> 3160.82] people it is because of human sin and human rebellion that we need to be reconciled to you and that jesus needed to come down -[3161.38 --> 3162.98] thank you for that gift of love -[3164.42 --> 3167.38] father we come to you because we have many reasons to be thankful -[3167.94 --> 3174.98] we thank you for all the students who graduated from high school this past week including members of this congregation and students from langley christian school -[3175.70 --> 3179.22] graduation is a milestone life event that is worthy of celebrating -[3179.22 --> 3188.66] we pray for all of them as they enter the next chapter of their lives whether it is work or more schooling we pray that all of them will be assured that they face the future with you -[3189.86 --> 3192.74] we thank you for the changing seasons in the beginning of summer -[3193.06 --> 3198.02] it is an opportunity for all of us to spend some time outdoors and to experience the beauty of your creation -[3198.66 --> 3204.02] some of us will work some of us will travel and all of us will use the opportunity to be with friends and family -[3204.02 --> 3210.74] be with all of us this summer time we thank you for this church family and everyone who has gathered here -[3210.74 --> 3217.22] we thank you for the leadership of this church for pastor chris pastor kevin josh and members of the council -[3217.78 --> 3224.26] we thank you for the many ministries of this church many of which will be on summer hiatus we ask that you -[3224.26 --> 3230.10] bless these ministries and the work that they do may they meet the spiritual and physical needs that we see around us -[3230.10 --> 3235.86] in particular we thank you for another group of graduates the grade fours who just finished children's -[3235.86 --> 3242.66] worship time as they grow they'll be part of other ministries gems cadets youth young adults and then -[3242.66 --> 3249.30] their own positions of service and ministry in this church bless them on this journey father we thank you -[3249.30 --> 3255.14] for the team that just returned from the philippines and shared their stories with us we thank you that they -[3255.14 --> 3261.54] had a meaningful visit and we pray that this visit like this will have a great impact on on them and -[3261.54 --> 3268.42] those they were interacting with father we think of the joys and the needs that we have as a christian -[3268.42 --> 3275.14] community we think about the needs of the world we pray again for conflicts in ukraine and russia -[3275.14 --> 3281.30] in israel and gaza and now the tense situation we have in iran but those are just the conflicts that we see -[3281.30 --> 3288.18] so often in the news it is easy not to notice conflicts in sudan myanmar somalia yemen and other -[3288.18 --> 3294.90] places we pray for all leaders on both sides of every conflict that they may see the value of living -[3294.90 --> 3300.98] next to each other as neighbors and use that as a basis for achieving a meaningful and lasting peace -[3302.10 --> 3308.58] we also think about the needs of this congregation we pray again for peace and comfort for tanya test -[3308.58 --> 3315.38] maker as she continues hospice care as part of her deal with cancer we pray that she and the whole -[3315.38 --> 3322.58] family will experience your peace we continue to pray for doug kendon as he is being treated for cancer -[3322.58 --> 3328.58] we ask that he may feel your love and encouragement we thank you that tessa's had a chance to finish her -[3328.58 --> 3334.90] chemotherapy and is feeling much better we think about clary's sister joan as well who has finished -[3334.90 --> 3339.86] radiation treatment for cancer we thank you that both of them seem to be in good health for now we -[3339.86 --> 3347.30] pray that you continue to be with them as uh as they consider their their treatment we pray for pastor -[3347.30 --> 3352.50] chris as he begins a study of your word as revealed in the gospel according to matthew even though it is -[3352.50 --> 3359.14] not advent or christmas time we always celebrate the coming of emmanuel god with us we pray that the -[3359.14 --> 3365.62] message of jesus the fulfillment of promise is one that will reach each of us oh come let us sing unto -[3365.62 --> 3380.58] the lord let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation amen -[3380.58 --> 3397.46] as dave beautifully prayed we are indeed going to start a summer series through the gospel according -[3397.46 --> 3404.98] to matthew each week we will read a particular text from the gospel of matthew but we'll sort of -[3404.98 --> 3413.14] live in the story of a chapter or two surrounding that text and so it will be very important if you're -[3413.14 --> 3420.18] not an ordinary uh bible reader as we come to this time that you maybe bring your bible from home -[3421.30 --> 3427.30] or have it on your device open it up because we'll read a section one time through but then we'll look at -[3427.30 --> 3434.10] other parts around there if you are looking for bibles there's some at the back we're also mindful that -[3434.10 --> 3440.90] during the summer the youngest kids among us join us for worship and so we want to include you in our -[3440.90 --> 3447.70] conversation and in our time together there are some coloring clipboards and the like that are -[3447.70 --> 3451.94] available although it seems from my vantage point now that they've already all been dispersed and -[3451.94 --> 3458.82] collected and so excellent job there whoever mans that booth or takes care of that booth in the morning -[3458.82 --> 3463.94] if you find that there aren't enough please let myself or maria know and we'll make sure there's more -[3464.10 --> 3473.14] for the following week we're going to begin this morning by reading in some sense what we normally read -[3473.14 --> 3479.78] around christmas starting at the beginning of the gospel of matthew and so with the parts of the story of -[3479.78 --> 3491.70] the birth of jesus and particularly the announcement to joseph of jesus impending birth so i'm going to begin in -[3491.70 --> 3500.02] chapter 1 starting at verse 18 and i'll read through the end of verse 23 in this first time through together -[3502.42 --> 3511.14] this is how the birth of jesus the messiah came about his mother mary was pledged to be married to joseph -[3511.78 --> 3516.58] but before they came together she was found to be pregnant through the holy spirit -[3516.58 --> 3524.74] because joseph her husband was faithful to the law and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace -[3524.74 --> 3526.82] he had in mind to divorce her quietly -[3526.82 --> 3535.62] but after he had considered this an angel of the lord appeared to him in a dream and said joseph son of -[3535.62 --> 3543.22] david do not be afraid to take mary home as your wife because what is conceived in her is from the holy -[3543.22 --> 3551.94] spirit she will give birth to a son and you are to give him the name jesus because he will save his people -[3551.94 --> 3561.14] from their sins all this took place to fulfill what the lord had said through the prophet the virgin -[3561.14 --> 3569.70] will conceive and give birth to a son and they will call him emmanuel which means god with us this is the -[3569.70 --> 3581.62] word of the lord i want to begin by telling you a story that you probably already know even if you've -[3581.62 --> 3587.62] only heard it in cartoons or read about it in books i bet you know this kind of story -[3589.70 --> 3597.38] kids have you ever read a story where the bad guy is on the throne but the good king is somewhere out -[3597.38 --> 3604.98] there and we're all waiting for him to come back this is that kind of story once upon a time in a -[3604.98 --> 3613.22] distant kingdom the true king was gone and in absence of the true king the people lived in fear -[3614.42 --> 3623.70] an imposter sat on the throne cruel and power hungry and constantly paranoid under his rule the land felt -[3623.70 --> 3634.74] like it was under a dark cloud but rumors began to spread the rightful king was still alive and one day -[3634.74 --> 3644.42] this king would return and he would come quietly humbly but when he did come everything would change -[3645.22 --> 3652.26] right the darkness would lift justice would roll like a river and the kingdom would rejoice -[3653.94 --> 3660.42] now the story or a version of it sounds like the lion king or robin hood or king arthur or maybe the -[3660.42 --> 3667.78] lion the witch in the wardrobe if you have the eyes to see it but this story is is deeper than a fairy tale -[3669.46 --> 3679.30] these stories move us because they echo something true in us and we long for a good story we long for a -[3679.30 --> 3686.82] good leader for a good king one who doesn't lie or manipulate one who doesn't use his people but lays down his -[3686.82 --> 3693.86] life for them one who doesn't disappoint who doesn't grow corrupt who doesn't abandon us in our time of -[3693.86 --> 3703.06] need to overlay the story of jesus we live in a world full of herods right leaders who cling to power with -[3703.06 --> 3712.26] cleansed fits to who build their empires on fear and on blood and in a world like that you and i are left -[3712.26 --> 3722.34] wondering is anyone really in charge here can anyone really be trusted in this moment will justice ever be -[3722.34 --> 3729.86] done we live in a world and in a time and a place that feels increasingly out of control -[3732.10 --> 3740.34] and maybe you felt that right the noise and the spin and the constant stream of bad news one moment -[3740.34 --> 3748.90] it's wildfires and the next it's wars political leaders fail and fall short celebrities disappoint time -[3748.90 --> 3755.54] and time again institutions that we once trusted collapse under the weight of scandal or compromise -[3757.06 --> 3765.22] and we scroll we sigh we shake our heads because it all feels like too much -[3765.22 --> 3774.90] and we wonder is anyone actually in control is anyone actually worthy of our celebration -[3776.42 --> 3782.42] but also it's not just out there right it's really easy to assume that it's out there but it's in here -[3782.42 --> 3791.22] too isn't it most of us if we're honest spend our lives trying to rule our own little kingdoms at the -[3791.22 --> 3797.86] kingdom of career the kingdom of school or soccer the kingdom of family the the kingdom of comfort or -[3797.86 --> 3806.58] control we carefully curate our lives how we present ourselves online how we decorate our homes how we -[3806.58 --> 3813.78] schedule our days just to keep the illusion going that we are in control we protect our reputations -[3813.78 --> 3821.94] we plan our futures we trace we chase dreams that we are told will fill us full but it's exhausting -[3824.74 --> 3829.62] what we see over and over again or at least what i see in this right is that the more we try to hold -[3829.62 --> 3837.78] it all together the more we feel it unravel around us anxiety creeps in disappointment lingers and what we -[3837.78 --> 3845.62] thought was a modicum of control slips through our fingers like a vapor the world doesn't bend to our -[3845.62 --> 3856.02] will and it turns out neither does our own heart deep down in those quiet moments of disappointment -[3857.14 --> 3859.70] our hearts whisper a longing -[3859.70 --> 3872.74] if only there was a good king if only there was a true king one who sees me who saves me one who reigns -[3872.74 --> 3875.30] not for power but in love -[3878.26 --> 3884.34] even the littlest among us this morning have this prayer right have you ever wish that someone could just -[3884.34 --> 3894.02] fix everything take all the wrong stuff away help you feel safe and seen help you feel loved that's -[3894.02 --> 3904.42] what our hearts are longing for and that's exactly what the gospel of matthew declares for us we are -[3904.42 --> 3913.54] calling this summer series behold your king because we don't just want to learn about jesus we want you to -[3913.54 --> 3922.26] see him we want you to encounter the living jesus in these moments together to let the holy spirit open -[3922.26 --> 3929.22] our eyes and soften our hearts so that through the word we're not just informed but we are being transformed -[3930.82 --> 3939.62] right this is more than a story about the past we want to see jesus stepping into your present right now -[3939.62 --> 3947.14] right here god entering your imagination the spirit inviting you to let go of your little kingdom -[3947.14 --> 3954.98] and receive the joy and security and freedom of jesus kingdom and so in these moments together -[3955.78 --> 3963.78] it is my prayer that that we might carve out a sacred space and that this would actually be -[3963.78 --> 3971.62] a sort of liminal moment where heaven touches your heart and the king draws you near -[3974.18 --> 3986.42] this morning we will see this through the first couple two chapters of matthew where we see that jesus is the -[3986.42 --> 3995.94] true promised king the goal of god's covenant story the hope of the world and the lord who calls you to -[3995.94 --> 4003.38] belong to him that's our big idea this morning that jesus is the true promised king the goal of god's -[4003.38 --> 4011.94] covenant story the hope of the world and the lord who calls you to belong to him and like i said we read -[4011.94 --> 4017.62] specific verses but we're going to look at the whole couple chapters and so it will be great if you have a -[4017.62 --> 4027.06] bible in front of you to do that with if you do you will see that the first line of the gospel of matthew -[4027.06 --> 4036.98] in chapter 1 verse 1 says this is the genealogy of jesus the messiah the son of david the son of abraham -[4036.98 --> 4048.02] now in some ways this line is an echo of the first line of the bible right all the way back in genesis -[4048.02 --> 4058.34] the first book of the bible the very first words of genesis 1 say in the beginning god created the -[4058.34 --> 4071.38] the heavens and the earth in matthew the word that's translated genealogy is the greek word genesis -[4072.98 --> 4084.10] which means origin or beginning the arrival of jesus the messiah marks a new beginning for humanity -[4084.10 --> 4091.38] right this is the continuation of the story that started all the way back in the garden that moved -[4091.38 --> 4098.34] through abraham and david and exile and silence and and this is where it's all been headed -[4099.94 --> 4105.46] even in the moments of god's hiddenness this has been moving through history -[4105.46 --> 4114.42] and jesus doesn't arrive on the scene out of nowhere as we read this we're building an anticipation he is -[4114.42 --> 4120.18] the long expected one but even more than that what we begin to see is that he's the point of it all -[4120.74 --> 4128.02] right every promise every covenant every longing every deliverance every prophet's cry throughout history -[4128.02 --> 4138.02] all flows towards him and from the moment humanity fell in our relationship to god god has been moving -[4138.02 --> 4146.26] history towards healing towards reconciliation with him from the moment death entered the world god has -[4146.26 --> 4154.10] been working resurrection into the plan and when jesus comes onto the scene we don't just get a new chapter -[4154.10 --> 4159.78] we get the central character we get the climax of it all the one who fulfills it the one who literally -[4159.78 --> 4166.66] embodies it incarnates it in our midst the one who completes it and he's not just another person in the -[4166.66 --> 4175.06] story he is the goal of the story jesus is what god has been doing from the beginning and so when we read -[4175.06 --> 4183.38] the genealogy right we're not just reading a family tree we are witnessing the faithfulness of god across -[4183.38 --> 4191.78] generations of god weaving a plan of grace through broken people and battered hopes until the day -[4191.78 --> 4197.38] that heaven finally breaks open and the king is born and the angels sing -[4201.46 --> 4209.30] now there's another thing to see in this genealogy we don't have time to get into all the particulars but -[4209.30 --> 4220.42] we're going to read it quickly jesus comes for all people and this is already conveyed in the genealogy jew -[4220.42 --> 4227.62] gentile moral immoral significant insignificant people of influence and people on the margins in fact -[4227.62 --> 4232.34] especially for people who are insignificant by society's standards and on the margins -[4232.34 --> 4241.14] as you read through this story you might see there that the story of judah and tamar for instance is -[4241.14 --> 4252.58] incredibly salacious and like 14a maybe 18 plus right even by today's standards -[4254.42 --> 4257.78] before coming to know the lord rahab was a prostitute -[4257.78 --> 4266.34] many of the kings on this list in the genealogy did incredibly awful things ahaz sacrificed his son -[4267.14 --> 4274.82] manasseh sacrificed his son but also practiced sorcery and we read in second kings 21 filled jerusalem -[4274.82 --> 4275.94] with the blood of innocence -[4275.94 --> 4280.74] this family tree -[4281.62 --> 4282.74] is pretty ugly -[4285.22 --> 4293.46] now you may think then as you sit here this morning that your past excludes you from the kingdom -[4294.50 --> 4299.38] maybe you think that your family background rules you out maybe you think you're just not good enough -[4299.38 --> 4308.82] or smart enough or well enough the kingdom of jesus though will encompass many more people than you can -[4308.82 --> 4314.58] imagine in fact someone once said and i tried to figure out this week but it turns out it's one of -[4314.58 --> 4318.82] those quotes that just live in the ether and so we can't attribute it to any one person anymore -[4319.62 --> 4325.14] but someone said that when you get to heaven you'll be surprised who you don't see there who you thought -[4325.14 --> 4331.38] you probably would and you'll be even more surprised by who you do see there who you thought you never -[4331.38 --> 4341.46] should that's what's going on in this story right the the beginning of the gospel of matthew is is showing -[4341.46 --> 4352.18] us just how broad and wide and deep is the love of god made available in christ jesus big enough for you -[4352.18 --> 4361.62] even you no matter your past or your history at the beginning of matthew is also at pains to show us -[4361.62 --> 4369.22] something about jesus and how the messiah is connected to the line of david right and the point here -[4369.94 --> 4379.06] i believe is to underscore the royal lineage of jesus that he is the true king that jesus is the son -[4379.06 --> 4389.14] of david matthew uses the title son of david nine times for jesus god promised david that one of his -[4389.14 --> 4397.70] descendants would be established on a throne forever you can read that in second samuel 7 and this promise -[4397.70 --> 4406.02] shapes the longings of israel for generations and generations both through and after the exile -[4406.02 --> 4412.90] and the genealogy together with the story of the visit from the magi which comes after what we read -[4413.94 --> 4420.26] who were searching for the king of the jews tying that to palm sunday narrative where people shout -[4420.26 --> 4428.18] hosanna to the son of david all of these point to the fact that jesus is the true and better king he's the -[4428.18 --> 4437.22] long-expected king and this is a major theme for matthew in this story all of israel's longings all of the -[4437.22 --> 4445.54] anticipations of god's people for a messiah king a new anointed ruler are fulfilled in jesus -[4447.06 --> 4455.94] and the rest of the gospel story shows us just what kind of king he will be and what it means to live in his kingdom -[4458.18 --> 4466.10] this shows us early what kind of king jesus is right not one who seizes power but one who descends in -[4466.10 --> 4478.98] humility and when herod hears from the magi of this child king he responds with violence and fear -[4478.98 --> 4490.82] but jesus comes not with swords but for suffering right and from from that cradle in the manger to the -[4490.82 --> 4500.18] cross the kingship of jesus confounds expectations right he doesn't rule from a throne but joins his -[4500.18 --> 4510.26] people in a manger and and later demonstrates his rule from a tree this is the king who conquers by being -[4510.26 --> 4522.90] conquered right whose crown is not made of gold but of thorns and from the beginning we can see that god is -[4522.90 --> 4533.06] faithful to his faithful to his promises that god can be trusted to keep his promises right in the genealogy -[4533.06 --> 4542.10] in the story to the angel to joseph and in the visit of the magi we see right beginning with god's promise -[4542.10 --> 4548.42] to abraham abraham is a a huge figure in the old testament he's the first of the three great patriarchs -[4548.42 --> 4558.58] abraham isaac and jacob and god promised abram in genesis 12 both a land and a seed and god promised -[4558.58 --> 4566.18] that through his descendants he would be a blessing to the nations and in the genealogy of jesus we see -[4566.18 --> 4573.78] that he is the seed of abraham and being united to christ by believing in him that's what makes us now heirs -[4573.78 --> 4581.54] of abraham and that's why the bible calls abraham the father of all who believe in romans 4 11. -[4583.06 --> 4589.14] see the story of abraham and there the story of jesus through him is not just about one family in -[4589.14 --> 4596.50] one land it's about blessing all nations that's why jesus will end the gospel of matthew with a global -[4596.50 --> 4605.22] commission right to go into all nations and make disciples the promise of abraham and the mission -[4605.22 --> 4612.74] of the church are two sides of the same coin jesus is not only the fulfillment of the promise he is the -[4612.74 --> 4615.78] expansion of the promise to the ends of the earth -[4615.78 --> 4618.50] the promise of the ancient city of abraham and in the first place in the first place in the first place -[4618.50 --> 4629.14] and i think this last idea here is connected to the idea that we get in jesus name jesus means -[4629.14 --> 4639.22] he will save his people from their sins the hebrew name there is yeshua modern day is joshua the greek -[4639.22 --> 4649.14] version is Jesus, from which we get Jesus. Yeshua means Yahweh saves. And we're also told that in -[4649.14 --> 4653.96] this part of the story, he will also be called Emmanuel, which is another Hebrew word meaning -[4653.96 --> 4660.10] God with us. That's why this church is named Emmanuel, because God is with us here and now. -[4661.76 --> 4668.24] And introducing this name, especially this last one, is a refrain that will be repeated -[4668.24 --> 4676.50] throughout this opening section of Matthew. All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said -[4676.50 --> 4682.48] through the prophet. Now, a version of this shows up four more times in this section. -[4683.12 --> 4689.52] Once about where he would be born in Bethlehem, once about his fleeing to Egypt to escape Herod, -[4689.76 --> 4695.36] another time about all the weeping in the land after Herod killed the baby boys two years old and -[4695.36 --> 4702.14] younger. And then lastly, in his move to Nazareth, fulfilling what the prophets would say about him -[4702.14 --> 4712.90] being a Nazarene. That's in chapter 2, verse 23. The point of all of this, that Jesus is the long-expected -[4712.90 --> 4723.60] Messiah King. He is the promised fulfillment of God's work in the world. And he fulfills God's -[4723.60 --> 4732.94] promises not only by arriving, but by laying down his life. This is the gospel at the heart of Jesus' -[4732.94 --> 4740.00] story. And I pray that it turns out to be the answer to the ache in our own story. -[4741.16 --> 4747.96] Even though we are more sinful than we could ever dare admit or acknowledge, we are more loved by God -[4747.96 --> 4756.06] than we could ever imagine possible. And out of that love, Jesus came into the world and lived the -[4756.06 --> 4761.46] life that we should have lived, fulfilling the demands of God's law with perfect righteousness. -[4762.18 --> 4769.08] And he died the death that we deserve, taking the punishment for our sin upon his shoulders on the -[4769.08 --> 4778.08] cross. This is the kind of king that Jesus is. Not just righteous for his own sake, but righteous for -[4778.08 --> 4786.86] ours. Not just bearing a crown of glory, but wearing a crown of thorns. Jesus is the king who trades places -[4786.86 --> 4794.62] with his people. He saves not by domination, but by substitution. He reigns not by taking life, but by giving -[4794.62 --> 4804.80] his own. And that's why he's the answer to our deepest longings for forgiveness, for justice, for peace, -[4804.80 --> 4814.16] for a love that will never end, a love that will never let us go. Each fulfillment of these opening -[4814.16 --> 4823.80] chapters is more than a prediction. It's a declaration. A declaration that says God is still speaking. -[4823.80 --> 4832.40] God is still acting. God is still with us. The scriptures are not just an ancient record. They are the -[4832.40 --> 4839.86] living voice of God, tracing the providence of God through history and teaching his people his voice to -[4839.86 --> 4847.82] know him more. Matthew doesn't just want us to see what God did. He wants us to see and hear, to know, and to -[4847.82 --> 4857.12] believe, to believe, to witness, and to be a part of what God is doing in Jesus even now, today, in this place. -[4861.88 --> 4863.86] Now, the way I do this in my own life -[4863.86 --> 4871.82] is to constantly, prayerfully, be on the lookout for God's activity around me, -[4871.82 --> 4880.10] God's activity in me and through me. One of my favorite questions to ask people is, is how have you -[4880.10 --> 4888.42] seen God show up lately? Right? I think we need to get better at seeing God at work. And one of the ways -[4888.42 --> 4895.70] that we do that is by asking others how they see God at work. How have you seen God at work in your life? -[4895.70 --> 4903.98] Equally as important, where do you need to see Jesus at work in your life right now? -[4906.40 --> 4911.96] Next, I want to do something a little bit out of the ordinary, but I want to just take a moment, -[4913.14 --> 4919.48] and I want you to do that. Just reflect in your heart, in your imagination right now, -[4919.48 --> 4926.70] on how you've seen God at work. And then maybe, if you're willing, pray a prayer that says, -[4926.82 --> 4932.96] Jesus, I need you to show up here. And so reflect in your heart, how have you seen God at work? -[4933.66 --> 4935.52] Where do you need him to show? Do that right now. -[4935.52 --> 4935.56] Do that right now. -[4949.48 --> 4972.58] Hold that question. -[4975.16 --> 4976.26] Hold that prayer. -[4976.26 --> 5006.24] Hold that prayer. -[5006.26 --> 5007.90] End quote. -[5009.66 --> 5016.74] The moment that you say Jesus is God, you are saying that what the Bible says is true. -[5018.20 --> 5022.64] You are saying that what Jesus says about himself is true. -[5023.86 --> 5030.66] And if what Jesus has said about himself is true, then it is also true that there is no other person -[5030.66 --> 5034.86] by whom we can be made right with God except Jesus. -[5034.86 --> 5043.46] And so asking the question, who is Jesus, actually, for us this morning, turns into a pleading. -[5044.14 --> 5048.18] A pleading. Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as your Savior. -[5048.68 --> 5052.86] Love him as your brother and serve him as your Messiah King. -[5052.86 --> 5059.18] You see, if Jesus is God, then by his word you were created. -[5060.32 --> 5069.32] If Jesus is God, because of him, everything that he has done in this world makes him alone worthy of our love -[5069.32 --> 5071.46] and our devotion and our worship. -[5071.46 --> 5076.22] He alone is worthy of our faithful obedience. -[5076.22 --> 5090.50] And so with eyes of faith, behold your King. -[5090.50 --> 5093.20] Look to him. -[5094.40 --> 5098.02] In fact, right now, again, look in your own heart. -[5098.42 --> 5099.96] Think in your own imaginations. -[5100.34 --> 5102.28] Is Jesus your King? -[5103.18 --> 5108.46] And hear him say this morning, you are mine. -[5108.46 --> 5112.40] You are mine. -[5112.40 --> 5117.06] You belong to me, body and soul, in life and in death. -[5118.52 --> 5120.70] This is who Jesus is. -[5121.64 --> 5124.56] He is the true and promised King. -[5124.70 --> 5126.76] The goal of God's covenant story. -[5126.86 --> 5127.96] The hope of the world. -[5128.34 --> 5131.46] And the Lord who calls you to belong to him. -[5132.98 --> 5134.60] Let me be abundantly clear. -[5134.96 --> 5137.14] Jesus isn't just the King of the grown-ups. -[5138.46 --> 5139.88] Kids, he's your King. -[5140.20 --> 5141.18] He sees you. -[5141.64 --> 5142.64] He knows your name. -[5142.76 --> 5144.66] He loves it when you talk to him. -[5144.76 --> 5148.32] And he loves you more than you could ever imagine possible. -[5149.86 --> 5153.10] Jesus doesn't come to seize power but to give life. -[5153.10 --> 5156.86] He doesn't come to reign from a palace but from a manger and a cross. -[5157.32 --> 5159.14] Jesus doesn't just want your attention. -[5159.38 --> 5160.42] He wants your heart. -[5161.98 --> 5162.92] So trust him. -[5164.56 --> 5165.86] Worship him. -[5167.00 --> 5168.30] Follow him. -[5168.46 --> 5170.80] Emmanuel. -[5170.80 --> 5170.88] Emmanuel. -[5171.58 --> 5173.52] God with us. -[5174.34 --> 5177.04] Behold your King. -[5178.32 --> 5178.92] Amen. -[5179.60 --> 5180.74] Let's pray together. -[5180.74 --> 5194.12] Lord Jesus, help us today in this moment to fix our eyes on you. -[5197.80 --> 5204.26] Help us to no longer conform to the pattern of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. -[5204.26 --> 5204.36] Help us. -[5208.04 --> 5213.40] Help us to come to you because you have the words of eternal life. -[5217.72 --> 5221.48] Help us to see you today. -[5221.48 --> 5227.22] In Jesus' name we pray. -[5227.22 --> 5227.28] Amen. -[5228.62 --> 5228.98] Amen. -[5228.98 --> 5244.02] Why don't we all rise and offer these words together? -[5258.98 --> 5273.98] By faith we see the hand of God in the light of creation's grand design, -[5273.98 --> 5283.44] in the lives of those who prove His faithfulness, -[5283.44 --> 5288.76] who walk by faith and not by sight. -[5290.48 --> 5295.54] By faith our fathers roam the earth, -[5295.54 --> 5303.22] with the power of His promise in their hearts. -[5303.98 --> 5311.02] Of a holy city built by God's own heaven, -[5311.02 --> 5316.30] a place where peace and justice reign. -[5317.22 --> 5322.70] We will stand as children of the promise, -[5324.06 --> 5330.66] we will fix our eyes on Him, our souls reward, -[5330.66 --> 5337.70] till the race is finished and the work is done. -[5337.70 --> 5343.54] He'll walk by faith and not by sight. -[5343.54 --> 5354.58] By faith the prophets saw a day, -[5354.58 --> 5360.58] when the longed for Messiah would appear, -[5360.58 --> 5369.30] with the power to break the chains of sin and death, -[5369.30 --> 5374.74] and rise triumphant from the grave. -[5374.74 --> 5380.90] By faith the church was called to go, -[5380.90 --> 5388.90] in the power of the Spirit to the lost, -[5388.90 --> 5396.50] to deliver captives and to preach good news, -[5396.50 --> 5401.72] in every corner of the earth. -[5401.72 --> 5408.76] We will stand as children of the promise, -[5408.76 --> 5415.70] we will fix our eyes on Him, our souls reward, -[5415.70 --> 5422.76] till the race is finished and the work is done. -[5422.76 --> 5429.80] We will walk by faith and not by sight. -[5429.80 --> 5439.80] By faith the mountain shall be moved, -[5439.80 --> 5446.84] and the power of the gospel shall prevail. -[5446.84 --> 5452.84] For we know in Christ all things are possible, -[5452.84 --> 5458.84] for all who call upon His name. -[5458.84 --> 5465.88] We will stand as children of the promise, -[5465.88 --> 5472.88] we will fix our eyes on Him, our souls reward, -[5472.88 --> 5480.88] till the race is finished and the work is done. -[5480.88 --> 5485.88] We will walk by faith and not by sight. -[5485.88 --> 5505.32] In just a moment, you are sent out, commissioned by God, -[5505.32 --> 5508.12] to proclaim Jesus to the world, -[5508.12 --> 5510.84] and God goes with us in His blessing. -[5510.84 --> 5515.12] I invite you to connect with a couple of the deacons -[5515.12 --> 5517.12] who will be at the Connect booth afterwards -[5517.12 --> 5522.16] to sign up for a volunteer slot for the July 12 food drive. -[5522.16 --> 5525.92] Additionally, invite you to connect with someone up here at the front. -[5525.92 --> 5528.64] We'll meet you with a name tag, a yellow name tag on. -[5528.64 --> 5532.16] They'd love to meet and pray with you as you have need. -[5532.16 --> 5536.56] Receive the blessing of our God. -[5536.56 --> 5539.36] God go before you to lead you. -[5539.36 --> 5541.60] God go behind you to protect you. -[5541.60 --> 5543.60] God go beneath you to support you. -[5543.60 --> 5546.64] God go beside you to befriend you. -[5546.64 --> 5548.64] Do not be afraid. -[5548.64 --> 5552.16] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5552.16 --> 5560.64] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve your Messiah King. -[5560.64 --> 5562.64] Amen. -[5562.64 --> 5565.68] I love you to make your Messiah King. -[5565.68 --> 5567.68] Amen. -[5567.68 --> 5571.68] I love you to befriend you, I love you. -[5571.68 --> 5574.40] I love you to befriend you, I love you, I love you. -[5574.40 --> 5579.44] I love you to befriend you, I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you. -[5579.44 --> 5583.68] You're the Lion of Judah, the Lamb who was slain. -[5583.68 --> 5591.44] ascended to heaven and evermore will reign at the end of the age when the earth you reclaim -[5591.44 --> 5600.48] you will gather the nations before you and the eyes of all men will be fixed on the lamb who was -[5600.48 --> 5611.20] crucified with wisdom and mercy and justice you'll reign at your father's side -[5611.20 --> 5614.56] and the angels will cry -[5614.56 --> 5618.24] hail the lamb -[5618.24 --> 5621.60] who was slain for the world -[5621.60 --> 5630.96] and the earth will be alive -[5630.96 --> 5634.96] you shall reign -[5634.96 --> 5646.32] as the king of all kings and the lord of all lords -[5646.32 --> 5657.68] there's a shield in our hand and a sword at our side there's a fire in our spirits that cannot be denied -[5657.68 --> 5667.04] as the father has told us for these you have died for the nations who gather before you -[5667.04 --> 5675.04] and the ears of all men need to hear of the lamb who was crucified -[5675.04 --> 5682.40] who descended to hell yet was raised up to reign at his father's side -[5682.40 --> 5685.76] and the angels will cry -[5685.76 --> 5691.12] hail the lamb -[5691.12 --> 5693.12] who was slain for the world -[5693.12 --> 5699.12] who will be found -[5699.12 --> 5701.12] and the earth will reply -[5701.12 --> 5705.12] you shall reign -[5705.12 --> 5708.48] reign -[5708.48 --> 5712.48] as the king of all kings and the lord of all lords -[5712.48 --> 5714.48] and the angels will cry -[5714.48 --> 5718.48] hail the lamb -[5718.48 --> 5722.48] who was slain for the world -[5722.48 --> 5726.48] rule in mind -[5726.48 --> 5730.48] and the earth will reply -[5730.48 --> 5735.84] you shall reign -[5735.84 --> 5741.84] as the king of all kings and the lord of all lords -[5741.84 --> 5747.84] as the king of all kings and the lord of all lords -[5747.84 --> 5757.28] will -[5757.28 --> 5763.60] who is -[5764.08 --> 5766.08] who -[5766.24 --> 5768.24] who -[5768.24 --> 5769.20] thou -[5769.20 --> 5771.20] who -[5771.76 --> 5772.32] who -[5772.32 --> 5802.30] Thank you. -[5802.32 --> 5832.30] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, June 8, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, June 8, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0306c50e47254ae1b0a64453f77477a5a33c2f28..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, June 8, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,154 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction to worship with celebration of Lord's Supper, ordination/installation of new office bearers -• Special welcome for visitors and acknowledgement of upcoming events (50-year anniversary celebration, cake) -• Announcements: Reactivate youth conference volunteer opportunities, October 4th worship conference with Brian Dirksen and Joshua Leventhal -• Call to stand and be ushered into God's presence together -• Invocation prayer from Acts 2, introducing the biblical account of Pentecost -• Filled with the Holy Spirit, speaking in tongues -• Prayer requests: rain down, touch again, come and change lives -• Invocations: let your power fall, let your voice be heard -• Worship of God as holy, majestic, just -• Praises to God's glory, consuming fire, power, and grace -• Acknowledgment of God's unique attributes and actions -• Confession of sin and acknowledgment of God's mercy and forgiveness -• Ordination and installation of new pastoral elders and deacons -• Affirmation of their calling to office and subscription to church doctrine -• Laying on of hands for ordination and prayer for guidance and blessing in ministry -• Reminders for office bearers to follow God's standard -• Encouragement for pastoral elders to hold firmly to trustworthy message -• Instructions for deacons to serve with the spirit and in wisdom -• Pledge from congregation to receive new office bearers as Christ's gift -• Introduction of Advocate Life and Education Services and Baby Bottle Campaign -• Announcement of offering for ministry and mission, including supporting Pastor Jen during transition time -• Thank yous to various individuals -• Invitation for kids up through grade four to come forward -• Introduction of visitors and congregation -• Pentecost celebration and the transmission of God's message -• Communion, appointment of elders, and the global spread of Christianity -• Mission work in Mexico and Africa -• Baptisms and marriages celebrated within the church community -• Graduations from Langley Christian School -• Prayers for those dealing with loss, including cancer and hospice care -• Recognition of family struggles and unbelief within the congregation -• Mention of Ukraine and Russia -• Lack of leadership in Ukraine/Russia -• Reference to Lord's coming and trust in his promises -• Reflection on Pentecost and the Holy Spirit's role -• Reading from Luke 1 and Acts 2, specifically verses 16-21 -• Importance of being present and attentive during the service -• The prophet Joel's quote about the last days, where God will pour out his spirit on all people -• Modern society's craving for certainty and its apparent allergy to it -• Overabundance of information and conflicting opinions in daily life -• Difficulty trusting institutions, leaders, and people due to past disappointments and hurt -• Frustration with promises not being fulfilled and the need to keep guard up -• Ache for certainty in an age of information overload -• Spiritual paralysis and feeling stuck -• Questioning the truth and uncertainty -• Importance of building a life on solid foundations -• Luke's writing as an orderly account for certainty -• Investigating and researching to draw accurate conclusions -• Familiarity with scholarly work and academic discussion -• Showing expertise in a particular field -• The speaker is adding to a field with their work -• Luke is demonstrating his worth as a source and author -• The speaker has investigated the topic thoroughly, including literature review and detective process -• Luke likely met Peter and had access to James and other early church leaders in Jerusalem -• The speaker emphasizes that Luke's account is based on eyewitnesses and servants of the word -• Luke's gospel is based on firsthand sources and grounded in careful investigation. -• The author aims to establish the certainty of the events described. -• The question arises of how one can be certain that the account is not biased or invented. -• The general problem of knowing historical truth is raised, especially outside of personal experience. -• Skepticism and asking hard questions are essential for being a good historian. -• The reliability of ancient history and the importance of evaluating sources, consistency, and credibility -• Comparison of gospel accounts to other historical records in terms of accuracy and verification -• Eyewitness testimony as a key factor in the validity of Luke's account and the possibility of misremembering or exaggerating events -• Questioning how we can trust eyewitnesses and the potential for them to fabricate information -• The reliability of sources in historical research, particularly eyewitness testimony -• The difference between creative misremembering and factual recounting -• The potential for emotional influence or manipulation on witnesses' accounts -• The significance of stakes and consequences for witnesses who report their experiences -• The importance of critical evaluation when considering the credibility of evidence -• The apostles are not gaining power or comfort by spreading their message -• They are being arrested, tortured, and exiled for it -• If the message was false, someone would have cracked under torture -• Multiple sources (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Paul, Peter) confirm the same thing -• The accounts show internal consistency and connection to real people, places, and events -• The speaker is becoming a cynic due to the uncertainty of ancient history. -• They suggest that rather than dismissing what we know, we should be confident in our translations and interpretations. -• The word "certainty" is discussed, and its meaning in ancient Greek is explained as "safety" or "security". -• Examples from Acts 5 and 1 Thessalonians 5 are given to illustrate the use of this word. -• Security -• Certainty -• Truth -• Reality -• Importance of the story being told -• Firmness and stability of truth -• Comparison to a mountain, not just a cloud -• God's activity, presence, and saturation in every aspect of life -• Discussion of Luke's writing and its focus on the word of God -• Importance of Jesus in Luke's writing and his relationship with Theophilus and the reader -• Concept of truth revealed through the gospel, specifically regarding sin and salvation -• Comparison between the life Jesus lived and the death he suffered for humanity -• Significance of Jesus' resurrection as a victory over sin and death -• Implications of this truth on the believer's understanding and living of their faith -• The speaker discusses the reason behind accepting the historical account of Jesus' life and death, and how it requires trust in its accuracy. -• If the story is true, everything should change, and one must listen to Jesus and follow his words. -• The speaker emphasizes the importance of trusting Jesus if he truly has the words of eternal life. -• They mention that faith can be found even in skeptical and secular scholars who agree on the reliability of the gospels. -• To build a life based on this history, one must also believe in its trustworthiness and not just rely on external validation. -• The speaker concludes by saying that a shift from intellectual understanding to personal conviction is needed. -• Reading and discussing the catechism in adult classes -• Question and answer 21 from the Heidelberg Catechism on true faith -• Definition of true faith as knowledge and trust -• Characteristics of true faith: sure knowledge, whole-hearted trust, reliable, deep-rooted assurance -• Importance of commitment in times of uncertainty and risk -• The idea of Pentecost and the purpose of the gospel -• The difference between knowing something is true and truly trusting it -• An analogy of standing on a bridge that spans a canyon, highlighting the need to trust in the gospel's power rather than just knowing it is secure. -• The speaker discusses an experience where children were hesitant to cross a bridge, even after seeing adults walk across it safely. -• Faith is described as not just knowing something is true, but trusting in it and acting on that trust. -• True faith involves a wholehearted trust created by the Holy Spirit through the gospel. -• Reliability and certainty are contrasted with trustworthy and security. -• God's promise to pour out the Holy Spirit in the last days -• Wonders and signs in heaven and on earth -• Salvation for those who call on the Lord's name -• The importance of trusting and leaning into the unknown -• Praying for guidance and help to trust and walk with others -• Sharing the gospel of Jesus and its relevance to everyday life -• Faith is a gift from the Holy Spirit, not something to be achieved through human effort -• The Spirit awakens us to faith and transforms us through it -• To receive this gift of faith, we must ask for it, seek it, and welcome the Spirit's work in our lives -• This involves placing ourselves where the Spirit loves to work, such as in Scripture, prayer, worship, and community with other Christians -• The Spirit uses ordinary means to do extraordinary things, carrying us when we can't walk on our own and helping us grow in wholehearted trust in Jesus. -• Seeking truth and clarity -• Putting one's whole self into prayer and seeking answers -• Trusting in the Lord and His spirit to guide and strengthen -• Overcoming obstacles and uncertainties -• Holding onto faith and trusting in God's presence -• Prayer and supplication for oneself and others -• The role of the spirit in carrying individuals and generations -• Discussion of spiritual truths and what is known to be true -• Transition from relying on others to being trustworthy in one's own faith -• Hearing and knowing the voice of Jesus -• Prayer for presence and transformation at the table -• Liturgical practices during a church service -• Encouragement to speak up in designated roles within the church -• Creation and God's image -• Covenant with humanity despite sin -• Jesus Christ as savior and redeemer -• Holy Spirit unifying believers -• Lord's Supper or Eucharist as remembrance of Jesus' sacrifice -• Invitation to come to the table regardless of faith level or past failures -• Instructions for passing bread and juice during communion -• Accommodations for people with gluten intolerance or celiac disease -• Introduction of worship volunteers, prayer volunteers, and elders who will serve -• Invitation to come forward for Communion -• Repeated phrases during Communion: "Body of Christ given for you", "Drink and believe" -• Prayer-like phrases expressing themes of mercy, grace, and surrender -• Invocation and blessings -• Ordination/installation of individuals -• Blessing of God for the journey ahead -• Invitation to stay after the service -• Encouragement to congratulate ordained individuals -• Prayer for protection, support, and friendship with God -• Assurance of God's presence and guidance -• Reference to a song or poem about love and redemption \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, June 8, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, June 8, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f8257929143e92ddbab3fac34518678ee72d2971..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, June 8, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3250 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 152.00] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 182.00] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 212.00] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 242.00] Thank you. -[242.00 --> 244.00] Thank you. -[244.00 --> 246.00] Thank you. -[246.00 --> 248.00] Thank you. -[248.00 --> 252.00] Thank you. -[252.00 --> 261.14] I see a generation standing on the truth -[261.14 --> 268.68] In each and every nation, God is on the moon -[268.68 --> 273.08] Anytime the gospel stirs a searching soul -[273.08 --> 277.50] And someone says, send me, here I go -[277.50 --> 286.90] God is on the moon, on the moon, hallelujah -[286.90 --> 291.48] God is on the moon in many, many ways -[291.48 --> 295.86] God is on the moon, on the moon, hallelujah -[295.88 --> 299.76] God is on the moon, on the moon today -[299.76 --> 305.14] God is on the moon, on the moon, hallelujah -[305.14 --> 309.46] God is on the move in many mighty ways. -[309.80 --> 311.14] God is on the move. -[311.14 --> 335.58] God is on the move. -[335.58 --> 338.50] On the move today. -[341.14 --> 355.72] God is on the move. -[371.14 --> 373.16] Good morning. -[374.76 --> 376.30] I love the excitement. -[376.50 --> 378.12] I love the buzz in the room. -[378.30 --> 380.66] Welcome to worship this morning. -[380.78 --> 384.86] A special welcome if you are a visitor here with us. -[385.24 --> 389.10] Today there's lots of celebration in our worship together. -[389.84 --> 395.78] Not only are we celebrating Lord's Supper as we come to the table to receive from Jesus, -[395.78 --> 401.98] his very presence in our lives, but also we are ordaining and installing new office bearers. -[402.12 --> 406.62] And so if you're here as part of that celebration, thank you for joining with us. -[407.16 --> 412.92] And then following our worship this morning, you might have seen on your way in some tables set up. -[412.92 --> 419.62] We are celebrating with Andy and Rika Emmons 50 years of marriage together. -[420.14 --> 421.02] Amazing. -[424.30 --> 431.16] And they have been so gracious with their family to provide cake and share in that celebration. -[431.16 --> 435.58] And so if you weren't planning on sticking around following our worship this morning, -[435.66 --> 439.02] maybe do for about five or ten minutes to make sure that you get a piece of cake, -[439.54 --> 442.28] in part because they don't want to take all the leftovers home, -[442.46 --> 444.58] because then Andy has to eat them all week long. -[444.64 --> 446.32] And I'm not sure that's what he wants to do either. -[446.32 --> 451.24] As we worship together, as we do life together, -[451.24 --> 454.42] there are a couple other announcements that we want to make this morning. -[455.24 --> 461.40] And so first of all, I want to encourage you to keep your eye out in the midweek memo -[461.40 --> 464.80] coming up for a couple things that we're looking at. -[464.92 --> 470.48] And so first, Reactivate, which is a youth conference that we host here in September, -[471.04 --> 474.06] needs hundreds of volunteers to make it happen. -[474.06 --> 477.48] And the sign-up sheet for that is going out this week. -[478.12 --> 482.30] And so you'll be able to sign up for a couple places to serve -[482.30 --> 489.10] and be with the youth that come from all over BC to be part of a conference here. -[489.92 --> 495.10] As well, in this next week, you will see a save-the-date information card -[495.10 --> 499.96] for an October 4th worship conference that we're going to be hosting here -[499.96 --> 503.02] with Brian Dirksen and Joshua Leventhal. -[503.02 --> 511.34] And so they're going to be coming and having talks and worshiping with us in that time together. -[511.48 --> 515.30] And so keep your eyes and ears open for more information on that. -[516.02 --> 518.02] That's it for our announcements this morning. -[518.42 --> 522.40] And so as you are making your way in or as you are seated there, -[522.44 --> 524.56] I'm going to invite you to stand if you're able. -[524.56 --> 529.08] And we can be called and ushered into God's presence together. -[530.02 --> 534.14] I'm going to speak God's greeting over us as we gather in our worship. -[534.28 --> 538.44] And I invite you to turn to those around you and welcome them in worship as well -[538.44 --> 542.52] by passing the peace of Christ, saying the peace of Christ be with you or the Lord be with you, -[542.96 --> 546.48] shaking their hands, nodding your heads, however it is you like to greet each other. -[546.74 --> 547.56] Do that in this time. -[547.56 --> 550.40] Receive the greeting of our good God. -[551.74 --> 556.14] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, -[556.36 --> 559.08] from the Lord Jesus Christ, His Son, and our Savior, -[559.54 --> 561.84] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[562.64 --> 562.92] Amen. -[562.92 --> 563.06] Amen. -[563.06 --> 563.10] Amen. -[563.10 --> 563.12] Amen. -[577.56 --> 601.10] Good morning. -[601.10 --> 609.90] The biblical account of Pentecost is primarily found in the book of Acts, chapter 2. -[610.62 --> 614.86] Key verses in Acts describe the event as a time of divine power -[614.86 --> 617.54] and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, -[617.80 --> 622.30] empowering believers to speak in other languages and proclaim the gospel. -[623.18 --> 626.76] Our call to worship this morning comes from Acts 2, verses 1 to 4. -[626.76 --> 631.36] When the day of Pentecost came, they were together in one place. -[632.18 --> 636.28] Suddenly, a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven -[636.28 --> 639.46] and filled the whole house where they were sitting. -[640.08 --> 646.06] They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. -[646.90 --> 649.20] All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit -[649.20 --> 655.60] and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. -[656.76 --> 658.66] Please join us in worship this morning. -[658.66 --> 658.74] Amen. -[686.76 --> 690.72] Rain down. -[690.72 --> 695.24] Oh, a cloud for terror and threat. -[696.10 --> 700.20] Now we need your touch again. -[700.76 --> 705.76] Oh, we'll see the rain down. -[706.76 --> 710.60] Rain down. -[710.60 --> 712.60] Rain down. -[712.60 --> 713.60] Rain down. -[713.60 --> 714.60] Rain down. -[714.60 --> 715.60] Rain down. -[715.60 --> 716.60] Let your power fall. -[716.60 --> 717.60] Let your voice be heard. -[717.60 --> 721.60] Come and change our lives as we stand on your word. -[721.60 --> 729.60] Holy Spirit, rain down. -[729.60 --> 730.60] Rain down. -[730.60 --> 731.60] Rain down. -[731.60 --> 732.60] Rain down. -[732.60 --> 733.60] Rain down. -[733.60 --> 734.60] Oh, come for terror and threat. -[734.60 --> 738.60] Now we need your touch again. -[738.60 --> 739.60] Holy Spirit, rain down. -[739.60 --> 740.60] Rain down. -[740.60 --> 741.60] Rain down. -[741.60 --> 744.60] Oh, come for terror and threat. -[744.60 --> 745.60] Now we need your touch again. -[745.60 --> 746.60] Now we need your touch again. -[746.60 --> 752.60] Now we need your touch again. -[752.60 --> 753.60] Rain down. -[753.60 --> 755.60] Rain down. -[755.60 --> 756.60] Rain down. -[756.60 --> 757.60] Rain down. -[757.60 --> 758.60] Rain down. -[758.60 --> 759.60] Rain down. -[759.60 --> 760.60] Rain down. -[760.60 --> 761.60] Now we need your touch again. -[761.60 --> 762.60] Rain down. -[762.60 --> 764.60] Let your power fall. -[764.98 --> 766.60] Let your voice be heard. -[766.60 --> 768.60] Now we need your touch again. -[768.60 --> 771.60] To change our lives as we stand on your way. -[771.60 --> 773.60] Holy Spirit, rain down. -[773.60 --> 780.60] Here and now -[780.60 --> 787.88] No eye has seen, no ear has heard -[787.88 --> 792.74] No one can know what God has shown -[792.74 --> 797.88] So open up heaven, open up man -[797.88 --> 804.20] Over your church and over our hearts -[804.20 --> 808.76] Holy Spirit, amen -[808.76 --> 813.76] Amen -[813.76 --> 818.12] Oh, hope and turn -[818.12 --> 824.26] Now we need to touch again -[824.26 --> 829.58] Holy Spirit, rain down -[829.58 --> 834.26] Rain down -[834.26 --> 837.26] Let your power fall -[837.26 --> 840.38] Let your voice be heard -[840.38 --> 842.26] Only change our hearts -[843.04 --> 845.44] As we stand on your word -[845.44 --> 852.26] Holy Spirit, rain down -[852.26 --> 854.26] Tonight -[859.26 --> 873.50] Of Ochoa -[873.50 --> 893.14] Who else demands all the roast of heaven? -[894.08 --> 899.14] Who else in a heavenly count out? -[899.14 --> 905.90] Who else in a whisper and darkness trembles? -[906.34 --> 910.62] Only a holy God. -[912.10 --> 917.26] What other beauty demands such praises? -[918.74 --> 922.74] What other splendor of child and son? -[923.36 --> 928.74] What other majesty rules with justice? -[929.84 --> 934.14] Only a holy God. -[936.34 --> 940.62] Amen be holy. -[941.18 --> 945.14] The one and the only. -[946.14 --> 949.14] Cry now sing holy. -[949.14 --> 954.02] Forever the holy God. -[954.42 --> 958.60] Come and worship the holy God. -[962.90 --> 967.14] What other glory consumes thy fire? -[967.64 --> 973.14] What other power and grace let air. -[973.84 --> 978.74] What other faith reach as a minister? -[978.74 --> 983.74] We are holy, God. -[985.74 --> 993.74] Amen, behold, the one and the other. -[994.74 --> 1002.74] I am sing holy, forever the holy heart. -[1002.74 --> 1007.74] Come and worship the holy heart. -[1008.74 --> 1016.74] Amen, behold, the one and the other. -[1017.74 --> 1024.74] I am sing holy, forever the holy heart. -[1025.74 --> 1030.74] Come and worship the holy heart. -[1032.74 --> 1038.74] Come and worship the holy heart. -[1039.74 --> 1042.74] Amen, behold, the one and the other. -[1042.74 --> 1045.74] Come and worship the holy heart. -[1046.74 --> 1050.74] Come and worship the holy heart. -[1051.74 --> 1055.74] Who else could rescue me from my sins? -[1056.74 --> 1061.74] Who else could offer their only son? -[1061.74 --> 1066.74] Who else would like to call him Father? -[1067.74 --> 1071.74] Only a holy God. -[1072.74 --> 1077.74] Only my holy God. -[1077.74 --> 1083.74] Come and behold, the one and the other. -[1083.74 --> 1087.74] Come and worship the holy heart. -[1088.74 --> 1092.74] Come and behold, the one and the other. -[1092.74 --> 1094.74] Oh -[1122.74 --> 1128.26] Let's join together in a time of prayer. -[1131.72 --> 1133.80] Our God and Heavenly Father, -[1134.58 --> 1137.00] we come to you on this Pentecost Sunday -[1137.00 --> 1138.82] with thankfulness to you -[1138.82 --> 1140.90] for sending your Holy Spirit -[1140.90 --> 1143.18] to live in each of our hearts -[1143.18 --> 1146.98] and for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. -[1148.26 --> 1151.98] Dear God, we confess that each of us are sinners. -[1152.74 --> 1155.24] Each of us has fallen short -[1155.24 --> 1157.76] and strayed from your path for us. -[1159.10 --> 1161.00] We confess our pride, -[1162.44 --> 1164.66] our selfishness, -[1165.42 --> 1167.26] our anger, -[1167.86 --> 1172.14] and our failure to love as you have loved us. -[1173.62 --> 1175.98] We humbly confess our weaknesses -[1175.98 --> 1179.04] and inability to live up to your standards. -[1179.04 --> 1183.18] Thank you, God, for your infinite mercy -[1183.18 --> 1186.10] and your gift to us of forgiveness. -[1187.96 --> 1190.90] We trust in the atoning sacrifice for us -[1190.90 --> 1192.96] by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. -[1194.90 --> 1196.72] Your grace and forgiveness -[1196.72 --> 1199.72] and the assurance that our sins are washed away, -[1199.82 --> 1201.98] we receive with grateful hearts. -[1201.98 --> 1204.04] we thank you -[1204.04 --> 1206.92] and pray that your Holy Spirit -[1206.92 --> 1209.22] would be alive in each of us, -[1209.90 --> 1212.78] forever prompting us to live lives faithful to you, -[1214.12 --> 1216.12] reflecting your love and truth. -[1217.06 --> 1219.42] In Jesus' precious name we pray. -[1219.98 --> 1220.30] Amen. -[1220.30 --> 1222.24] Amen. -[1228.74 --> 1235.36] Amen. -[1235.36 --> 1237.20] Amen. -[1237.68 --> 1238.40] Amen. -[1238.90 --> 1239.18] oftentimes -[1239.18 --> 1269.16] Thank you. -[1269.18 --> 1299.16] Thank you. -[1299.18 --> 1329.16] Thank you. -[1329.18 --> 1359.16] Thank you. -[1359.18 --> 1361.18] Thank you. -[1389.18 --> 1391.18] Thank you. -[1419.18 --> 1421.18] Thank you. -[1449.18 --> 1451.18] Thank you. -[1479.18 --> 1481.18] Thank you. -[1481.18 --> 1486.80] To wash David's eyes -[1486.80 --> 1490.28] Or do the Stephen -[1491.28 --> 1495.96] To wash David's eyes -[1495.96 --> 1503.24] Anybody asking the Fu? -[1503.24 --> 1517.56] This morning, we have opportunity to continue in our gratitude to God for his gift of faithful -[1517.56 --> 1523.84] leadership to his church. This morning, we want to honor and recognize Seth Baker, Ken -[1523.84 --> 1530.98] Hogue-Wonning, and John Skipper, who have finished their term as pastoral elders, and Yap Wohlschlager, -[1530.98 --> 1539.56] who has finished his term as deacon. In our office bearers, we see Christ's love for the church. -[1540.42 --> 1547.10] He appoints leaders to build up the people and to promote the church's health. Pastoral elders offer -[1547.10 --> 1556.20] spiritual and theological care, and deacons lead in mercy and justice. Office bearers must be -[1556.20 --> 1562.72] Christ-like. They must be mature in faith, prayerful, patient, and humble in the Lord. -[1564.00 --> 1572.54] Today, by the Spirit's power on Pentecost, we ordain and install Pim Schoen as a pastoral elder. -[1573.42 --> 1579.32] Jesus Hernandez and Frank Welfing will be ordained and installed as pastoral elders at a future date. -[1579.32 --> 1585.78] And today, we also ordain and install Pete Birkenpass and Warren Verhoof as deacons. -[1586.64 --> 1592.80] To affirm your calling to this office, I'm going to invite you to come to the front at this point. -[1593.86 --> 1601.80] And so, Pim and Pete and Warren, come on up to the front. Center stage, gentlemen. -[1601.80 --> 1617.96] I'm going to ask you four questions. I'll read all four questions, and then I'll go through, -[1618.38 --> 1624.52] ask you by name what your response is. I invite you to respond by saying, I do, with God's help. -[1624.52 --> 1634.18] And so, do you believe that in the call of this congregation, God himself is calling you to these -[1634.18 --> 1641.22] holy offices? Do you believe that the Old and New Testaments are the word of God, the only infallible -[1641.22 --> 1647.60] rule for life and faith? Do you subscribe to the doctrinal standards of this church, rejecting all -[1647.60 --> 1653.40] teaching which contradicts them? And do you promise to do the work of your offices faithfully in a way -[1653.40 --> 1658.32] worthy of your calling and in submission to the governance and discipline of the church? -[1659.14 --> 1666.14] Pete, what is your answer? I do, with God's help. Amen. Warren, what is your answer? I do, with God's help. Amen. -[1666.48 --> 1673.56] Pim, what is your answer? I do, with God's help. Amen. I'm going to invite you guys to come down to the front here. -[1673.96 --> 1680.80] We're going to take a moment. It is biblical practice in the ordination and installation of leaders in the church -[1680.80 --> 1687.92] to mark the moving of the Spirit in the laying on of hands. And so, if you are a council member or a family member -[1687.92 --> 1695.76] or someone, we invite you also to the front now as we lay hands on these men as they begin their terms of service -[1695.76 --> 1705.10] among us here. Additionally, if you would like, you may hold your hand out as a sign that we, together as the church, -[1705.10 --> 1710.88] through whom the Spirit works, call these ones to service. -[1722.22 --> 1723.44] Together, then, we pray. -[1725.94 --> 1732.04] God, our Father, who has called you to these sacred offices, guide you by his word. -[1732.04 --> 1737.70] May he equip you with his Spirit and bless your ministry among us. -[1738.74 --> 1745.52] May he make you faithful workers in his vineyard, and may his church grow in grace and faith and service -[1745.52 --> 1754.66] under your care. And may you serve with joy and humility, rooted in the daily awe of our good God. -[1754.66 --> 1760.18] God, help us, Lord, as your church, to gladly accept their leadership, -[1760.76 --> 1765.86] to remember them and encourage them, and to honor them for the sake of Christ, -[1766.34 --> 1769.18] and to pray for them in the work that you have called them to do. -[1769.94 --> 1773.38] It's in the name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen. -[1774.34 --> 1774.70] Amen. -[1774.70 --> 1774.82] Amen. -[1784.66 --> 1792.20] I want to take a moment and remind us all of the charge to these individuals. -[1792.40 --> 1798.20] And so this isn't just for the new office bearers, but it's a reminder for the continuing office bearers, -[1798.28 --> 1804.82] and for us all, to know what it is that we call them to, and the standard that God has laid out for them. -[1804.82 --> 1815.30] And so Pym and the rest of the pastoral elders, encourage by sound doctrine and hold firmly to the trustworthy message. -[1816.38 --> 1817.56] Pray continually. -[1818.70 --> 1820.72] Welcome children as you would welcome Christ. -[1821.46 --> 1822.86] Guide the young with joy. -[1823.44 --> 1827.20] Know the scriptures and be mastered by your Lord. -[1828.46 --> 1834.52] And to Pete and Warren and to all the deacons, hold firmly to the trustworthy message. -[1835.70 --> 1838.18] Be worthy of respect and sincere. -[1839.34 --> 1841.88] Serve with the spirit and in wisdom. -[1842.80 --> 1849.72] Model justice, mercy, and humility as you teach us to walk humbly with our God. -[1851.72 --> 1858.18] People of God, receive these office bearers as Christ's gift to the church. -[1858.94 --> 1861.18] Honor them and take their counsel seriously. -[1861.70 --> 1863.82] Obey and support them and pray for them. -[1864.60 --> 1867.00] Stand with them in their service. -[1867.56 --> 1870.30] To that end, I'm going to invite you as you are able to stand, -[1870.80 --> 1873.24] and I will ask you all a question as well, -[1873.24 --> 1875.62] and invite you to respond as you see behind me. -[1875.76 --> 1877.30] We do with God's help. -[1879.80 --> 1883.56] And so do you, Congregation of God, Church Family of Langley, Emmanuel, -[1884.12 --> 1888.48] pledge to receive these office bearers as they have been charged? -[1888.48 --> 1891.44] We do with God's help. -[1892.16 --> 1892.64] Amen. -[1893.06 --> 1893.68] Have a seat. -[1893.86 --> 1895.54] I'm going to invite the deacons forward at this time. -[1896.06 --> 1897.70] We continue our worship in offering. -[1897.70 --> 1910.48] Good morning. -[1910.48 --> 1910.54] Good morning. -[1911.08 --> 1911.92] My name is Brenda. -[1912.12 --> 1913.16] I'm one of the deacons here. -[1913.88 --> 1916.42] We continue the giving of our gifts. -[1916.92 --> 1920.08] We continue our worship with the giving of our gifts this morning. -[1920.08 --> 1923.82] Before that, I just want to highlight again, -[1924.00 --> 1925.62] as we have heard these last few weeks, -[1925.76 --> 1928.04] that Advocate Life and Education Services -[1928.04 --> 1930.84] and the Baby Bottle Campaign. -[1932.30 --> 1936.14] Advocate Life and Education Services brings hope in action -[1936.14 --> 1939.48] to women and families through pregnancy counselling and resources, -[1939.76 --> 1943.48] baby supplies, postpartum support, post-abortion care, -[1944.00 --> 1946.26] community education, and so much more. -[1946.76 --> 1949.96] Thank you to everyone who has already picked up a bottle -[1949.96 --> 1951.20] for the Baby Bottle Campaign. -[1951.48 --> 1953.58] If you haven't yet, it's not too late. -[1953.82 --> 1956.36] They are in the back on the... -[1956.36 --> 1957.70] I think they're back there. -[1957.90 --> 1960.46] They will be back there on the back counter. -[1961.32 --> 1965.38] And next Sunday is the final week for this campaign, -[1965.38 --> 1967.22] so you can pick up your baby bottle today -[1967.22 --> 1969.96] or go online to babybottles.ca. -[1970.74 --> 1976.12] Our offerings for today is for the ministry and mission of our church. -[1976.74 --> 1980.86] And the second one is for the well. -[1981.72 --> 1986.30] The well is a church plant that was originally established in Kelowna, B.C., -[1986.30 --> 1988.52] and it has recently closed its doors. -[1989.34 --> 1994.06] As a result, Classis has contacted us as churches -[1994.06 --> 1998.52] and has requested that congregations consider taking up a special offering -[1998.52 --> 2001.94] to support Pastor Jen during this transition time. -[2002.44 --> 2006.04] This offering will go toward providing her with a severance package, -[2006.52 --> 2008.66] recognizing her dedication, leadership, -[2008.86 --> 2011.88] and the many ways that she has poured into the life of the church -[2011.88 --> 2013.32] and the broader community. -[2014.10 --> 2016.30] Please give as God has blessed. -[2016.30 --> 2046.28] Thank you. -[2046.30 --> 2047.62] Thank you. -[2047.68 --> 2048.14] Thank you. -[2048.14 --> 2049.14] Hi, Axel. -[2049.14 --> 2049.70] Thank you. -[2049.78 --> 2049.84] Thank you. -[2049.96 --> 2050.74] Thank you. -[2050.82 --> 2051.20] Thank you. -[2051.74 --> 2052.00] Thank you. -[2052.82 --> 2061.04] Thank you. -[2065.22 --> 2067.40] Thank you. -[2067.94 --> 2068.48] Thank you. -[2068.48 --> 2098.46] Thank you. -[2098.48 --> 2128.46] Thank you. -[2128.48 --> 2158.46] Thank you. -[2158.48 --> 2188.46] Thank you. -[2188.48 --> 2218.46] Thank you. -[2218.48 --> 2248.46] Thank you. -[2248.48 --> 2250.48] Thank you. -[2252.32 --> 2258.80] I want to invite all the kids at preschool up through grade four to come on up to the front. -[2258.80 --> 2263.54] I love how eager you are, Haley, every week. -[2263.54 --> 2265.54] Come on up to the front. -[2265.54 --> 2266.60] Come on up to the front. -[2266.60 --> 2272.86] If you're a visitor with us, also, please don't hesitate to send your kids or come on up with your kids as well. -[2272.86 --> 2274.86] Just a moment. -[2274.86 --> 2276.86] You guys are going to go to the front. -[2276.86 --> 2278.86] We're going to go to the front. -[2278.86 --> 2282.86] We'll go to the front. -[2282.86 --> 2287.40] We're going to go to the front of the front of the front of the front of the other side. -[2287.40 --> 2291.26] And so why don't we fold our hands and we'll pray together and then you can head out. -[2291.26 --> 2299.28] Lord Jesus I pray for each one of these kids and for their teachers may they all together -[2299.28 --> 2307.50] see Jesus in their worship may they hear from you and may we sing your praise in Jesus name -[2307.50 --> 2313.78] amen amen all right let's stand up together and so if you're a visitor with us this morning -[2313.78 --> 2318.76] as the kids go out we stand and face the congregation we hold our hands up -[2318.76 --> 2324.06] like so and then we're going to say the Lord be with you and then they're going to respond by -[2324.06 --> 2331.34] saying and also with you and so hands up together we say the Lord be with you amen -[2348.76 --> 2353.44] good morning -[2353.44 --> 2364.70] it's a beautiful morning yeah it's wonderful I'm just standing all these kids just leaving -[2364.70 --> 2371.58] the sanctuary right now how blessed we are to have them let's turn to our I'm Peter and I'm -[2371.58 --> 2378.94] giving the congregational prayer this morning shall we pray father God we thank you for this day -[2378.94 --> 2387.50] we're reminded that today we in the liturgical calendar of the Christian church we we celebrate -[2387.50 --> 2395.30] Pentecost Lord we think of how important that has been for the transmission of your message -[2395.30 --> 2406.62] we think of when Jesus said goodbye to his disciples on ascension day when he was lifted up and he promised -[2406.62 --> 2412.56] them and as Luke records Jesus said you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you -[2412.56 --> 2420.30] and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem Judea Samaria and to the ends of the earth -[2420.30 --> 2430.18] Lord this is amazing 2,000 years later we can honestly say that your spirit has been alive through the story -[2430.18 --> 2437.54] that's gone on for 2,000 years we see it here this morning we see the communion table -[2437.54 --> 2445.14] Lord we see the appointment of elders and we know that all around the world your church is there -[2445.14 --> 2454.62] and we are amazed we think of the four young adults among us from our church Josh Jared -[2454.62 --> 2462.58] McElty and Sarah who are in the Philippines at the moment the Philippines Jerusalem to Samaria -[2462.58 --> 2473.28] to the Philippines every part of the world Aidan doing Bible translation that's in currently in Africa -[2473.28 --> 2482.44] how amazing is that the whole that the Bible has been translated in thou over a thousand different languages -[2482.44 --> 2489.52] people called to do that who feel through the Holy Spirit that's gonna be their witness -[2489.52 --> 2495.34] we think Lord of our Mexico missions we've had 30 years of it in this church -[2495.34 --> 2500.36] we think of Jody and her husband Earl and their work committed to missions -[2500.36 --> 2513.52] we thank you for them we think of Joanne Miles her mom passed away this week the Vennie family has been an incredible example even in denominational work -[2513.52 --> 2528.52] but she proclaimed her name to the end we thank you for her life we think Lord of just the baptisms that we've had in our church just a few weeks ago the Klingelting family marked D and their children -[2528.52 --> 2531.36] and look at here this morning -[2531.36 --> 2535.80] and look at here this morning Andy and Enrica Emmons 50 years married -[2535.80 --> 2540.36] the children beside the grandchildren 50 years -[2540.36 --> 2544.82] 25 years marriage one of their children -[2544.82 --> 2547.54] and a new new wedding -[2547.54 --> 2551.82] Lord your Holy Spirit shows up in our marriages -[2551.82 --> 2554.42] shows up in so many different places -[2554.42 --> 2557.26] we thank you Lord for this example -[2557.26 --> 2563.58] thank you also Lord that many of our students are graduating from Langley Christian School -[2563.58 --> 2566.26] and we thank you for Langley Christian's testimony -[2566.26 --> 2571.12] your Holy Spirit too has nurtured that for over 70 years this year -[2571.12 --> 2573.12] who would have known -[2573.12 --> 2575.12] but -[2575.12 --> 2578.12] so much yet to pray for -[2578.12 --> 2581.26] as sin and the deceiver plays its role -[2581.26 --> 2584.10] the effect of cancer -[2584.10 --> 2587.42] Doug and Tessa and Tanya and hospice -[2587.42 --> 2588.88] Lord -[2588.88 --> 2592.84] we just ask you to be there for Tanya -[2592.84 --> 2596.84] may she has confidence in your goodness -[2596.84 --> 2599.78] we thank you for her -[2599.78 --> 2602.68] and her family that stands by her side -[2602.68 --> 2605.46] reveal to her the promise -[2605.46 --> 2607.44] Lord we -[2607.44 --> 2610.96] thank also of those who are here this morning with a loss -[2610.96 --> 2612.88] we think of the Skipper family again -[2612.88 --> 2616.34] we think of their son Matt and grandchildren -[2616.34 --> 2619.36] who are struggling with the loss of Rachel -[2619.36 --> 2622.96] Rachel who played a big role in our church in the early years here -[2622.96 --> 2624.92] too young to die -[2624.92 --> 2625.72] we would say -[2625.72 --> 2626.22] Lord -[2626.22 --> 2628.20] we don't understand -[2628.20 --> 2630.20] but we give her over to you -[2630.20 --> 2632.70] we also -[2632.70 --> 2635.34] as we stand here and we reflect -[2635.34 --> 2638.16] like with Andy and Enrica as well -[2638.16 --> 2639.82] all of us have families -[2639.82 --> 2641.20] extended families -[2641.20 --> 2644.72] and we also recognize there's unbelief there -[2644.72 --> 2645.80] or -[2645.80 --> 2648.40] they're on the margins -[2648.40 --> 2650.36] trying to figure out -[2650.36 --> 2651.38] do I go to church -[2651.38 --> 2652.16] do I not -[2652.16 --> 2653.54] do I believe -[2653.54 --> 2655.32] what's in it for me -[2655.32 --> 2657.26] or what's not in it for me -[2657.26 --> 2659.54] Lord we lean into -[2659.54 --> 2660.92] your promises -[2660.92 --> 2662.42] also baptism -[2662.42 --> 2664.54] and yet -[2664.54 --> 2665.28] Lord -[2665.28 --> 2667.94] in spite of the outpouring of your Holy Spirit -[2667.94 --> 2669.10] the world is still -[2669.10 --> 2670.58] in disarray -[2670.58 --> 2673.42] there's that Gaza-Israeli war -[2673.42 --> 2674.92] your message -[2674.92 --> 2676.00] you said right there -[2676.00 --> 2678.16] the message will go to Jerusalem -[2678.16 --> 2681.14] and look at the fighting that continues there -[2681.14 --> 2682.48] look in Ukraine and Russia -[2682.48 --> 2684.42] what's going on -[2684.42 --> 2686.14] there's lack of leadership -[2686.14 --> 2687.92] so we know Lord -[2687.92 --> 2688.76] that your coming -[2688.76 --> 2689.70] is imminent -[2689.70 --> 2691.62] and we trust in that -[2691.62 --> 2692.56] and hope in that -[2692.56 --> 2694.54] but things could be so not -[2694.54 --> 2695.36] so different -[2695.36 --> 2697.70] we're not dismayed -[2697.70 --> 2699.82] we lean into your promises -[2699.82 --> 2701.76] you are sovereign -[2701.76 --> 2703.92] Jesus is Lord and King -[2703.92 --> 2705.50] over all -[2705.50 --> 2707.70] may his name be praised -[2707.70 --> 2708.22] Amen -[2708.22 --> 2732.82] sometimes when I'm up here -[2732.82 --> 2733.46] preaching -[2733.46 --> 2735.68] I get to a particular point -[2735.68 --> 2737.00] and I take my glasses off -[2737.00 --> 2737.60] and I hold them -[2737.60 --> 2738.74] and that's how you know -[2738.74 --> 2739.42] that it matters -[2739.42 --> 2741.78] I'm taking my glasses off now -[2741.78 --> 2742.84] because it's too hot -[2742.84 --> 2743.76] and my face is sweaty -[2743.76 --> 2744.70] and they're falling off -[2744.70 --> 2746.80] but this whole thing matters -[2746.80 --> 2748.50] so don't miss the cue -[2748.50 --> 2750.94] this morning -[2750.94 --> 2753.82] we're going to reflect on Pentecost -[2753.82 --> 2755.86] and the way the Spirit -[2755.86 --> 2757.96] provides us assurance -[2757.96 --> 2759.40] in our faith -[2759.40 --> 2760.58] and we're going to do that -[2760.58 --> 2762.78] as we have in this season -[2762.78 --> 2765.62] through the Gospel according to Luke -[2765.62 --> 2768.28] and a bit of Luke's second book -[2768.28 --> 2769.22] the book of Acts -[2769.22 --> 2770.66] so I'm going to read -[2770.66 --> 2771.98] from Luke 1 -[2771.98 --> 2773.66] we'll read the first four verses -[2773.66 --> 2775.00] and then I'm going to read -[2775.00 --> 2776.82] a few verses from Luke 2 -[2776.82 --> 2779.44] beginning at verse 16 there -[2779.44 --> 2780.84] and so I encourage you -[2780.84 --> 2781.98] if you have a Bible with you -[2781.98 --> 2782.74] open it up -[2782.74 --> 2784.16] follow along -[2784.16 --> 2784.86] read along -[2784.86 --> 2785.92] and then keep it open -[2785.92 --> 2786.54] in front of you -[2786.54 --> 2787.68] if you need a Bible -[2787.68 --> 2788.82] there's some at the back -[2788.82 --> 2790.96] you are welcome to grab -[2790.96 --> 2791.56] some of those -[2791.56 --> 2792.58] from the back -[2792.58 --> 2794.92] and if you -[2794.92 --> 2795.92] have a device -[2795.92 --> 2796.62] and you want to read -[2796.62 --> 2797.12] your Bible there -[2797.12 --> 2798.20] I encourage you to do that -[2798.20 --> 2798.62] as well -[2798.62 --> 2799.54] but always -[2799.54 --> 2800.42] just to keep it open -[2800.42 --> 2801.62] as we go through -[2801.62 --> 2802.54] our text this morning -[2802.54 --> 2804.34] let's start -[2804.34 --> 2806.24] in Luke 1 -[2806.24 --> 2810.38] many have taken -[2810.38 --> 2811.24] to draw up -[2811.24 --> 2811.80] an account -[2811.80 --> 2812.68] of the things -[2812.68 --> 2813.76] that have been fulfilled -[2813.76 --> 2814.50] among us -[2814.50 --> 2816.84] just as they were handed down -[2816.84 --> 2817.52] to us -[2817.52 --> 2818.24] by those -[2818.24 --> 2818.72] from -[2818.72 --> 2819.36] who -[2819.36 --> 2820.34] from the first -[2820.34 --> 2821.54] were eyewitnesses -[2821.54 --> 2822.18] and servants -[2822.18 --> 2823.06] of the word -[2823.06 --> 2825.20] with this in mind -[2825.20 --> 2826.80] since I myself -[2826.80 --> 2828.28] have carefully investigated -[2828.28 --> 2829.76] everything from the beginning -[2829.76 --> 2830.94] I too -[2830.94 --> 2832.18] decided to write -[2832.18 --> 2833.34] an orderly account -[2833.34 --> 2833.96] for you -[2833.96 --> 2835.26] most excellent -[2835.26 --> 2836.12] Theophilus -[2836.12 --> 2837.88] so that you may know -[2837.88 --> 2838.70] the certainty -[2838.70 --> 2839.80] of the things -[2839.80 --> 2841.50] you have been taught -[2841.50 --> 2843.46] and then let's -[2843.46 --> 2845.26] flip over to -[2845.26 --> 2847.30] Acts 2 -[2847.30 --> 2848.62] beginning at -[2848.62 --> 2850.30] verse 16 -[2850.30 --> 2852.60] I think on the screen -[2852.60 --> 2853.16] behind me -[2853.16 --> 2853.84] will be through -[2853.84 --> 2854.62] verse 18 -[2854.62 --> 2855.18] but I'm actually -[2855.18 --> 2855.88] going to read through -[2855.88 --> 2856.72] verse 21 -[2856.72 --> 2860.16] so this is Peter -[2860.16 --> 2861.26] addressing the crowd -[2861.26 --> 2861.80] his -[2861.80 --> 2863.90] post-Holy Spirit -[2863.90 --> 2865.02] descending on them -[2865.02 --> 2866.32] in tongues of fire -[2866.32 --> 2867.16] sermon -[2867.16 --> 2868.16] to those gathered -[2868.16 --> 2868.78] in Jerusalem -[2868.78 --> 2870.08] he says -[2870.08 --> 2871.72] this is what was spoken -[2871.72 --> 2873.02] by the prophet Joel -[2873.02 --> 2875.10] in the last days -[2875.10 --> 2875.96] God says -[2875.96 --> 2877.10] I will pour out -[2877.10 --> 2877.84] my spirit -[2877.84 --> 2878.78] on all people -[2878.78 --> 2880.56] your sons and daughters -[2880.56 --> 2881.36] will prophesy -[2881.36 --> 2882.28] your young men -[2882.28 --> 2883.12] will see visions -[2883.12 --> 2884.16] your old men -[2884.16 --> 2885.14] will dream dreams -[2885.14 --> 2886.96] even on my servants -[2886.96 --> 2887.94] both men and women -[2887.94 --> 2889.02] I will pour out -[2889.02 --> 2889.70] my spirit -[2889.70 --> 2890.60] in those days -[2890.60 --> 2891.90] and they will prophesy -[2891.90 --> 2893.90] I will show wonders -[2893.90 --> 2894.96] in the heavens above -[2894.96 --> 2896.12] and signs on the earth -[2896.12 --> 2896.56] below -[2896.56 --> 2897.80] blood and fire -[2897.80 --> 2899.02] and billows of smoke -[2899.02 --> 2900.74] the sun will be turned -[2900.74 --> 2901.32] to darkness -[2901.32 --> 2902.38] and the moon to blood -[2902.38 --> 2903.44] before the coming -[2903.44 --> 2904.68] of the great and glorious -[2904.68 --> 2906.08] day of the Lord -[2906.08 --> 2907.28] and everyone -[2907.28 --> 2909.04] who calls on the name -[2909.04 --> 2909.80] of the Lord -[2909.80 --> 2911.16] will be saved -[2911.16 --> 2913.12] this is the word -[2913.12 --> 2913.58] of the Lord -[2913.58 --> 2922.12] we live in an age -[2922.12 --> 2924.06] at a particular time -[2924.06 --> 2926.22] that craves certainty -[2926.22 --> 2927.98] and yet -[2927.98 --> 2928.68] somehow -[2928.68 --> 2929.76] seems allergic -[2929.76 --> 2930.94] to the idea -[2930.94 --> 2931.60] of certainty -[2931.60 --> 2934.60] every day -[2934.60 --> 2936.00] we are flooded -[2936.00 --> 2937.12] with information -[2937.12 --> 2938.12] headlines -[2938.12 --> 2939.08] and opinions -[2939.08 --> 2940.06] and arguments -[2940.06 --> 2941.28] new studies -[2941.28 --> 2941.92] coming out -[2941.92 --> 2942.66] new posts -[2942.66 --> 2943.98] and then the counter posts -[2943.98 --> 2945.36] that contradict them -[2945.36 --> 2946.10] and yet -[2946.10 --> 2947.74] the more we know -[2947.74 --> 2949.56] the less sure -[2949.56 --> 2950.22] we feel -[2950.22 --> 2952.46] the voices -[2952.46 --> 2953.18] are loud -[2953.18 --> 2954.40] the facts -[2954.40 --> 2955.52] are contested -[2955.52 --> 2956.50] and the truth -[2956.50 --> 2958.24] feels slippery -[2958.24 --> 2961.12] and so -[2961.12 --> 2963.04] we hesitate -[2963.04 --> 2965.96] we overthink -[2965.96 --> 2968.10] we analyze -[2968.10 --> 2969.38] and second guess -[2969.38 --> 2970.88] we want to believe -[2970.88 --> 2971.66] in something -[2971.66 --> 2972.70] but we also -[2972.70 --> 2973.06] don't want -[2973.06 --> 2973.62] to be fooled -[2973.62 --> 2975.22] we want -[2975.22 --> 2975.68] to commit -[2975.68 --> 2977.20] but we're afraid -[2977.20 --> 2978.32] what it might cost us -[2978.32 --> 2981.16] now add to that -[2981.16 --> 2982.50] a particular -[2982.50 --> 2983.58] cultural climate -[2983.58 --> 2984.00] where -[2984.00 --> 2985.14] where cynicism -[2985.14 --> 2986.04] gets clicks -[2986.04 --> 2987.90] truth -[2987.90 --> 2988.64] is rare -[2988.64 --> 2990.40] and sincerity -[2990.40 --> 2992.12] can feel -[2992.12 --> 2992.70] naive -[2992.70 --> 2995.82] and add to that -[2995.82 --> 2998.20] we've been -[2998.20 --> 2998.74] disappointed -[2998.74 --> 3000.58] by our institutions -[3000.58 --> 3002.54] we've been -[3002.54 --> 3003.08] misled -[3003.08 --> 3004.34] by leaders -[3004.34 --> 3005.80] we've been -[3005.80 --> 3006.20] hurt -[3006.20 --> 3007.14] by people -[3007.14 --> 3007.66] we trusted -[3007.66 --> 3008.74] we've been -[3008.74 --> 3009.22] burned -[3009.22 --> 3010.10] by promises -[3010.10 --> 3011.68] and so -[3011.68 --> 3012.12] we keep -[3012.12 --> 3012.78] our guard up -[3012.78 --> 3014.20] we keep -[3014.20 --> 3014.74] our faith -[3014.74 --> 3015.72] tentative -[3015.72 --> 3016.86] and our -[3016.86 --> 3017.22] commitment -[3017.22 --> 3017.72] small -[3017.72 --> 3019.90] we have this -[3019.90 --> 3020.30] ache -[3020.30 --> 3021.66] for certainty -[3021.66 --> 3023.06] in an age -[3023.06 --> 3023.96] of information -[3023.96 --> 3024.58] overload -[3024.58 --> 3026.28] and some -[3026.28 --> 3026.82] of us -[3026.82 --> 3027.82] without meaning -[3027.82 --> 3028.26] to -[3028.26 --> 3028.94] perhaps -[3028.94 --> 3030.04] have ended -[3030.04 --> 3031.02] up in a kind -[3031.02 --> 3031.74] of spiritual -[3031.74 --> 3032.50] paralysis -[3032.50 --> 3034.48] stuck in our -[3034.48 --> 3034.86] heads -[3034.86 --> 3036.62] and unable -[3036.62 --> 3037.46] to step out -[3037.46 --> 3039.62] we want -[3039.62 --> 3040.50] something solid -[3040.50 --> 3041.76] something real -[3041.76 --> 3042.30] something that we -[3042.30 --> 3042.90] can build our -[3042.90 --> 3043.56] lives on -[3043.56 --> 3044.46] but the question -[3044.46 --> 3045.22] keeps coming back -[3045.22 --> 3046.28] how do I know -[3046.28 --> 3046.96] this is true -[3046.96 --> 3049.08] and if it is -[3049.08 --> 3050.70] can I trust it -[3050.70 --> 3053.50] how can I trust -[3053.50 --> 3054.52] anything -[3054.52 --> 3055.72] enough to build -[3055.72 --> 3056.74] my life on it -[3056.74 --> 3058.30] especially when -[3058.30 --> 3059.42] everything feels -[3059.42 --> 3060.00] uncertain -[3060.00 --> 3061.10] and unstable -[3061.10 --> 3062.18] and up for debate -[3062.18 --> 3065.14] that's exactly -[3065.14 --> 3065.88] the question -[3065.88 --> 3066.96] that Luke -[3066.96 --> 3068.28] wants to answer -[3068.28 --> 3070.18] and then -[3070.18 --> 3071.14] that's exactly -[3071.14 --> 3072.26] the kind -[3072.26 --> 3073.34] of transformation -[3073.34 --> 3075.02] that Pentecost -[3075.02 --> 3076.60] makes possible -[3076.60 --> 3078.96] let's dig in -[3078.96 --> 3080.60] in verse 3 -[3080.60 --> 3081.64] from Luke 1 -[3081.64 --> 3082.70] we read -[3082.70 --> 3083.92] that -[3083.92 --> 3085.18] I too -[3085.18 --> 3085.86] Luke -[3085.86 --> 3086.54] decided -[3086.54 --> 3087.34] to write -[3087.34 --> 3088.16] an orderly -[3088.16 --> 3088.66] account -[3088.66 --> 3089.42] for you -[3089.42 --> 3090.88] so that -[3090.88 --> 3091.42] you may -[3091.42 --> 3091.94] know -[3091.94 --> 3092.96] the certainty -[3092.96 --> 3094.16] of the things -[3094.16 --> 3094.88] you have -[3094.88 --> 3095.86] been taught -[3095.86 --> 3097.72] Luke says -[3097.72 --> 3098.22] right at the -[3098.22 --> 3098.54] beginning -[3098.54 --> 3099.40] of his record -[3099.40 --> 3100.16] that he's -[3100.16 --> 3100.92] writing this -[3100.92 --> 3101.38] story -[3101.38 --> 3102.42] for a specific -[3102.42 --> 3103.28] purpose -[3103.28 --> 3104.22] of passing -[3104.22 --> 3105.24] on the truth -[3105.24 --> 3106.32] of the things -[3106.32 --> 3107.30] that Theopolis -[3107.30 --> 3108.20] has been -[3108.20 --> 3108.62] taught -[3108.62 --> 3109.66] he tells us -[3109.66 --> 3110.22] right from the -[3110.22 --> 3110.52] off -[3110.52 --> 3110.94] that he's -[3110.94 --> 3111.58] writing as -[3111.58 --> 3112.32] an investigator -[3112.32 --> 3113.34] he writes -[3113.34 --> 3114.58] as a scholar -[3114.58 --> 3115.64] he's doing -[3115.64 --> 3116.30] research -[3116.30 --> 3117.30] and he says -[3117.30 --> 3118.08] many have -[3118.08 --> 3118.60] undertaken -[3118.60 --> 3119.34] to draw up -[3119.34 --> 3119.84] an account -[3119.84 --> 3121.66] lots of people -[3121.66 --> 3122.36] have done this -[3122.36 --> 3122.80] he says -[3122.80 --> 3123.38] and I've -[3123.38 --> 3123.62] checked -[3123.62 --> 3124.96] I've read -[3124.96 --> 3125.28] them -[3125.28 --> 3126.34] I've done -[3126.34 --> 3127.36] the literature -[3127.36 --> 3127.92] review -[3127.92 --> 3130.24] as part of -[3130.24 --> 3131.34] my doctoral -[3131.34 --> 3131.94] studies -[3131.94 --> 3132.92] right now -[3132.92 --> 3133.68] and for my -[3133.68 --> 3134.10] dissertation -[3134.10 --> 3135.86] I have had -[3135.86 --> 3136.70] to submit -[3136.70 --> 3137.48] what's called -[3137.48 --> 3138.06] a literature -[3138.06 --> 3138.76] review -[3138.76 --> 3139.90] and the point -[3139.90 --> 3141.26] is to show -[3141.26 --> 3142.06] that I am -[3142.06 --> 3142.92] familiar with -[3142.92 --> 3143.50] the scholarly -[3143.50 --> 3144.26] work and the -[3144.26 --> 3145.22] academic discussion -[3145.22 --> 3146.04] on the particular -[3146.04 --> 3147.04] field that I'm -[3147.04 --> 3148.12] focusing in on -[3148.12 --> 3148.76] it's to show -[3148.76 --> 3149.68] that I am -[3149.68 --> 3150.32] an informed -[3150.32 --> 3151.60] voice on the -[3151.60 --> 3151.96] subject -[3151.96 --> 3152.58] that I have -[3152.58 --> 3153.54] read the -[3153.54 --> 3154.30] vast amount -[3154.30 --> 3154.72] of literature -[3154.72 --> 3155.40] on this -[3155.40 --> 3156.22] particular -[3156.22 --> 3157.00] topic -[3157.00 --> 3157.70] and that I -[3157.70 --> 3158.48] hope to add -[3158.48 --> 3159.36] to this field -[3159.36 --> 3159.98] with my -[3159.98 --> 3160.62] work -[3160.62 --> 3162.24] that's exactly -[3162.24 --> 3162.82] what Luke is -[3162.82 --> 3163.40] doing here -[3163.40 --> 3164.72] right he is -[3164.72 --> 3165.40] demonstrating -[3165.40 --> 3166.12] that he is -[3166.12 --> 3166.70] a worthwhile -[3166.70 --> 3167.34] source -[3167.34 --> 3167.92] and that his -[3167.92 --> 3168.78] voice is -[3168.78 --> 3169.64] worthy to be -[3169.64 --> 3170.82] added to the -[3170.82 --> 3172.28] collection of -[3172.28 --> 3173.50] voices being -[3173.50 --> 3173.94] spoken -[3173.94 --> 3175.24] and so he -[3175.24 --> 3175.98] says with -[3175.98 --> 3177.06] this in mind -[3177.06 --> 3177.50] I have -[3177.50 --> 3178.00] carefully -[3178.00 --> 3178.86] investigated -[3178.86 --> 3179.56] everything -[3179.56 --> 3180.50] from the -[3180.50 --> 3180.80] beginning -[3180.80 --> 3181.72] right again -[3181.72 --> 3182.62] he's underscoring -[3182.62 --> 3183.12] this fact -[3183.12 --> 3183.98] I have done -[3183.98 --> 3184.44] the work -[3184.44 --> 3185.46] I have listened -[3185.46 --> 3186.26] to the sources -[3186.26 --> 3187.24] I've done the -[3187.24 --> 3187.92] literature review -[3187.92 --> 3188.98] I have investigated -[3188.98 --> 3189.86] and I have done -[3189.86 --> 3190.56] the detective -[3190.56 --> 3192.26] process here -[3192.26 --> 3193.72] and then he -[3193.72 --> 3194.50] also tells us -[3194.50 --> 3194.98] that he's done -[3194.98 --> 3196.58] original research -[3196.58 --> 3197.40] right listen -[3197.40 --> 3197.94] to what he -[3197.94 --> 3198.30] says he -[3198.30 --> 3198.54] says -[3198.54 --> 3202.12] I have read -[3202.12 --> 3202.48] and listened -[3202.48 --> 3203.60] to the things -[3203.60 --> 3204.28] that were fulfilled -[3204.28 --> 3204.74] among us -[3204.74 --> 3205.50] and spoken to us -[3205.50 --> 3206.42] from those -[3206.42 --> 3207.82] who were first -[3207.82 --> 3209.00] eyewitnesses -[3209.00 --> 3209.82] and servants -[3209.82 --> 3211.12] of the word -[3211.12 --> 3212.68] no -[3212.68 --> 3214.74] we know -[3214.74 --> 3215.72] that Luke -[3215.72 --> 3216.54] traveled -[3216.54 --> 3217.82] with the -[3217.82 --> 3218.58] apostle Paul -[3218.58 --> 3219.80] we know -[3219.80 --> 3221.46] that Mark -[3221.46 --> 3222.68] also traveled -[3222.68 --> 3224.12] with the -[3224.12 --> 3224.88] apostle Paul -[3224.88 --> 3225.52] we know -[3225.52 --> 3226.04] that Luke -[3226.04 --> 3226.78] and Mark -[3226.78 --> 3227.24] traveled -[3227.24 --> 3227.70] together -[3227.70 --> 3228.52] with Paul -[3228.52 --> 3230.54] at least -[3230.54 --> 3230.98] on two -[3230.98 --> 3231.42] occasions -[3231.42 --> 3232.18] we can read -[3232.18 --> 3232.60] about that -[3232.60 --> 3232.80] in the -[3232.80 --> 3233.24] New Testament -[3233.24 --> 3235.30] and it's -[3235.30 --> 3236.02] also very -[3236.02 --> 3236.40] likely -[3236.40 --> 3237.46] that Luke -[3237.46 --> 3238.58] met Peter -[3238.58 --> 3240.00] at the very -[3240.00 --> 3240.68] least he -[3240.68 --> 3241.28] met Peter -[3241.28 --> 3242.20] when Paul -[3242.20 --> 3242.80] and Peter -[3242.80 --> 3243.34] were both -[3243.34 --> 3243.90] in Rome -[3243.90 --> 3244.46] and we know -[3244.46 --> 3244.86] that Luke -[3244.86 --> 3245.40] was there -[3245.40 --> 3246.32] with Paul -[3246.32 --> 3247.90] for the -[3247.90 --> 3248.56] martyrdom -[3248.56 --> 3249.42] and imprisonment -[3249.42 --> 3249.92] of both -[3249.92 --> 3251.50] it's likely -[3251.50 --> 3252.20] that because -[3252.20 --> 3253.12] of Paul -[3253.12 --> 3253.56] Luke -[3253.56 --> 3254.22] had access -[3254.22 --> 3255.18] to James -[3255.18 --> 3255.82] and to the -[3255.82 --> 3256.56] other leaders -[3256.56 --> 3257.14] of the early -[3257.14 --> 3258.16] church in Jerusalem -[3258.16 --> 3260.44] and many scholars -[3260.44 --> 3261.68] actually suppose -[3261.68 --> 3262.36] that Luke -[3262.36 --> 3263.04] had access -[3263.04 --> 3263.94] to the family -[3263.94 --> 3264.50] of Jesus -[3264.50 --> 3265.16] or at the very -[3265.16 --> 3266.06] least to Mary -[3266.06 --> 3267.24] because of all -[3267.24 --> 3268.32] the details -[3268.32 --> 3269.50] that he includes -[3269.50 --> 3270.44] from Mary's -[3270.44 --> 3270.94] perspective -[3270.94 --> 3272.06] in his gospel -[3272.06 --> 3274.16] point is -[3274.16 --> 3274.58] again -[3274.58 --> 3275.40] Luke has -[3275.40 --> 3275.94] connected -[3275.94 --> 3276.76] with the people -[3276.76 --> 3277.44] who saw it -[3277.44 --> 3278.04] first hand -[3278.04 --> 3279.74] he's drawn -[3279.74 --> 3280.42] in all -[3280.42 --> 3280.86] of these -[3280.86 --> 3281.68] sources -[3281.68 --> 3282.64] point is -[3282.64 --> 3283.28] the gospel -[3283.28 --> 3283.68] that he's -[3283.68 --> 3284.00] writing -[3284.00 --> 3285.08] isn't guesswork -[3285.08 --> 3285.96] it's grounded -[3285.96 --> 3287.22] right -[3287.22 --> 3287.82] it's not a -[3287.82 --> 3288.66] made up story -[3288.66 --> 3289.12] it's a -[3289.12 --> 3289.86] magisterial -[3289.86 --> 3290.36] history -[3290.36 --> 3292.12] and because -[3292.12 --> 3292.76] Luke has -[3292.76 --> 3293.44] investigated -[3293.44 --> 3294.08] carefully -[3294.08 --> 3294.98] he's saying -[3294.98 --> 3295.86] to Theophilus -[3295.86 --> 3296.62] you can -[3296.62 --> 3297.20] believe -[3297.20 --> 3298.16] confidently -[3298.16 --> 3300.10] and that's -[3300.10 --> 3300.66] his point -[3300.66 --> 3301.78] so that you -[3301.78 --> 3302.28] may know -[3302.28 --> 3303.12] the certainty -[3303.12 --> 3304.14] of the things -[3304.14 --> 3304.56] you have -[3304.56 --> 3305.18] been taught -[3305.18 --> 3307.52] now -[3307.52 --> 3309.82] I want to -[3309.82 --> 3310.34] take a moment -[3310.34 --> 3311.78] and stop -[3311.78 --> 3312.34] here -[3312.34 --> 3314.36] because it's -[3314.36 --> 3315.20] plausible -[3315.20 --> 3316.34] likely even -[3316.34 --> 3317.52] that you hear -[3317.52 --> 3318.44] me say that -[3318.44 --> 3319.00] and you go -[3319.00 --> 3320.06] okay sure -[3320.06 --> 3320.96] that's what Luke -[3320.96 --> 3321.68] did but how -[3321.68 --> 3322.72] do I know -[3322.72 --> 3324.94] how do I know -[3324.94 --> 3326.16] that this isn't -[3326.16 --> 3326.96] just Luke's -[3326.96 --> 3328.04] version of events -[3328.04 --> 3328.70] or this isn't -[3328.70 --> 3329.30] just wishful -[3329.30 --> 3330.02] thinking dressed -[3330.02 --> 3331.02] up as history -[3331.02 --> 3331.98] how do I know -[3331.98 --> 3332.76] that Luke -[3332.76 --> 3333.50] even with good -[3333.50 --> 3333.96] intentions -[3333.96 --> 3334.66] didn't just -[3334.66 --> 3335.50] skew things -[3335.50 --> 3336.22] away from the -[3336.22 --> 3336.88] actual truth -[3336.88 --> 3337.34] in order to -[3337.34 --> 3337.60] make his -[3337.60 --> 3337.90] point -[3337.90 --> 3339.80] and that's -[3339.80 --> 3340.04] a fair -[3340.04 --> 3340.52] question -[3340.52 --> 3341.62] it's actually -[3341.62 --> 3342.08] a really good -[3342.08 --> 3342.62] question -[3342.62 --> 3344.68] and it's -[3344.68 --> 3345.04] actually -[3345.04 --> 3345.82] indicative -[3345.82 --> 3346.42] of an even -[3346.42 --> 3347.34] bigger question -[3347.34 --> 3348.60] right -[3348.60 --> 3349.44] how do we -[3349.44 --> 3350.16] know anything -[3350.16 --> 3352.26] but especially -[3352.26 --> 3353.36] history -[3353.36 --> 3354.58] right -[3354.58 --> 3355.16] how can we -[3355.16 --> 3355.78] ascertain -[3355.78 --> 3356.32] the truth -[3356.32 --> 3357.06] of anything -[3357.06 --> 3358.02] outside of -[3358.02 --> 3358.34] our own -[3358.34 --> 3359.04] experience -[3359.04 --> 3360.00] and memory -[3360.00 --> 3362.16] look -[3362.16 --> 3363.52] if you -[3363.52 --> 3364.38] know me -[3364.38 --> 3364.74] at all -[3364.74 --> 3365.16] you know -[3365.16 --> 3365.44] that I -[3365.44 --> 3366.10] believe this -[3366.10 --> 3366.62] in the -[3366.62 --> 3366.82] depths -[3366.82 --> 3367.12] of my -[3367.12 --> 3367.36] being -[3367.36 --> 3367.82] it is -[3367.82 --> 3368.32] good -[3368.32 --> 3368.94] to be -[3368.94 --> 3369.44] skeptical -[3369.44 --> 3370.50] it is -[3370.50 --> 3370.88] good -[3370.88 --> 3371.48] to ask -[3371.48 --> 3371.74] hard -[3371.74 --> 3372.36] questions -[3372.36 --> 3373.26] actually -[3373.26 --> 3373.86] part of -[3373.86 --> 3374.12] what it -[3374.12 --> 3374.56] takes to -[3374.56 --> 3375.04] be a good -[3375.04 --> 3375.56] historian -[3375.56 --> 3376.60] is to -[3376.60 --> 3377.10] ask hard -[3377.10 --> 3377.64] questions -[3377.64 --> 3378.90] is to be -[3378.90 --> 3379.26] skeptical -[3379.26 --> 3380.06] about your -[3380.06 --> 3380.76] first pass -[3380.76 --> 3382.84] but the truth -[3382.84 --> 3383.66] here is -[3383.66 --> 3384.46] that we judge -[3384.46 --> 3385.32] any history -[3385.32 --> 3386.00] but especially -[3386.00 --> 3387.32] ancient history -[3387.32 --> 3388.50] based on -[3388.50 --> 3389.14] sources -[3389.14 --> 3390.12] consistency -[3390.12 --> 3390.96] and credibility -[3390.96 --> 3392.68] and the -[3392.68 --> 3393.42] very same -[3393.42 --> 3394.10] standards -[3394.10 --> 3394.76] historians -[3394.76 --> 3395.42] use for -[3395.42 --> 3396.24] any event -[3396.24 --> 3397.02] in the -[3397.02 --> 3397.76] ancient world -[3397.76 --> 3398.70] the gospel -[3398.70 --> 3399.12] accounts -[3399.12 --> 3399.68] don't just -[3399.68 --> 3400.18] hold up -[3400.18 --> 3400.36] to -[3400.36 --> 3400.82] don't just -[3400.82 --> 3401.34] meet them -[3401.34 --> 3401.62] but they -[3401.62 --> 3402.38] rise above -[3402.38 --> 3404.02] right -[3404.02 --> 3404.34] Luke's -[3404.34 --> 3404.66] account -[3404.66 --> 3405.24] is based -[3405.24 --> 3406.58] on eyewitnesses -[3406.58 --> 3407.28] on early -[3407.28 --> 3407.88] testimony -[3407.88 --> 3408.30] and on -[3408.30 --> 3408.66] careful -[3408.66 --> 3409.38] investigation -[3409.38 --> 3410.42] he names -[3410.42 --> 3410.90] names -[3410.90 --> 3411.82] documents -[3411.82 --> 3412.42] places -[3412.42 --> 3413.10] records -[3413.10 --> 3413.56] events -[3413.56 --> 3414.24] all of -[3414.24 --> 3414.70] which can -[3414.70 --> 3415.58] be corroborated -[3415.58 --> 3416.18] by extra -[3416.18 --> 3416.48] biblical -[3416.48 --> 3417.10] sources -[3417.10 --> 3417.88] right -[3417.88 --> 3418.12] he's -[3418.12 --> 3418.38] writing -[3418.38 --> 3420.70] not from -[3420.70 --> 3421.10] myth -[3421.10 --> 3421.72] but from -[3421.72 --> 3422.16] memory -[3422.16 --> 3423.40] right -[3423.40 --> 3423.86] the memory -[3423.86 --> 3424.30] of those -[3424.30 --> 3424.50] who were -[3424.50 --> 3424.80] there -[3424.80 --> 3426.08] and if -[3426.08 --> 3426.34] you can -[3426.34 --> 3426.66] trust -[3426.66 --> 3427.50] any history -[3427.50 --> 3428.02] at all -[3428.02 --> 3428.98] you can -[3428.98 --> 3429.22] trust -[3429.22 --> 3429.66] this one -[3429.66 --> 3432.28] you can -[3432.28 --> 3432.64] be a -[3432.64 --> 3433.16] skeptic -[3433.16 --> 3434.38] but use -[3434.38 --> 3434.76] the same -[3434.76 --> 3435.22] standard -[3435.22 --> 3437.24] that's -[3437.24 --> 3437.74] only fair -[3437.74 --> 3439.54] and by -[3439.54 --> 3440.04] the same -[3440.04 --> 3440.64] standard -[3440.64 --> 3441.66] the gospel -[3441.66 --> 3442.14] accounts -[3442.14 --> 3442.56] come out -[3442.56 --> 3442.86] ahead -[3442.86 --> 3445.26] now -[3445.26 --> 3446.60] again -[3446.60 --> 3448.10] I want -[3448.10 --> 3448.28] to be -[3448.28 --> 3448.66] fair -[3448.66 --> 3449.60] and I -[3449.60 --> 3449.70] want -[3449.70 --> 3449.78] to -[3449.78 --> 3450.26] anticipate -[3450.26 --> 3450.60] really -[3450.60 --> 3450.80] good -[3450.80 --> 3451.34] questions -[3451.34 --> 3452.02] here -[3452.02 --> 3452.78] and so -[3452.78 --> 3453.10] you might -[3453.10 --> 3453.46] hear my -[3453.46 --> 3453.86] response -[3453.86 --> 3454.20] to that -[3454.20 --> 3454.44] and you -[3454.44 --> 3454.62] might -[3454.62 --> 3454.92] next -[3454.92 --> 3455.40] ask -[3455.40 --> 3456.54] but how -[3456.54 --> 3456.82] do we -[3456.82 --> 3457.04] know -[3457.04 --> 3457.26] the -[3457.26 --> 3458.14] eyewitnesses -[3458.14 --> 3458.56] were telling -[3458.56 --> 3459.08] the truth -[3459.08 --> 3460.46] couldn't -[3460.46 --> 3460.80] they have -[3460.80 --> 3461.52] misremembered -[3461.52 --> 3461.72] couldn't -[3461.72 --> 3462.04] they have -[3462.04 --> 3462.56] exaggerated -[3462.56 --> 3462.88] couldn't -[3462.88 --> 3463.22] they have -[3463.22 --> 3463.42] made -[3463.42 --> 3463.74] it up -[3463.74 --> 3465.20] and again -[3465.20 --> 3465.78] this digs -[3465.78 --> 3466.06] deeper -[3466.06 --> 3466.36] this is -[3466.36 --> 3466.76] really good -[3466.76 --> 3467.10] work -[3467.10 --> 3467.46] right -[3467.46 --> 3467.78] this is -[3467.78 --> 3468.16] not just -[3468.16 --> 3468.40] about -[3468.40 --> 3468.64] whether -[3468.64 --> 3468.98] Luke -[3468.98 --> 3469.48] says -[3469.48 --> 3470.00] he did -[3470.00 --> 3470.18] the -[3470.18 --> 3470.62] research -[3470.62 --> 3470.92] it's -[3470.92 --> 3471.12] about -[3471.12 --> 3471.40] whether -[3471.40 --> 3471.86] or not -[3471.86 --> 3472.08] his -[3472.08 --> 3472.56] sources -[3472.56 --> 3473.20] are -[3473.20 --> 3473.76] reliable -[3473.76 --> 3475.16] right -[3475.16 --> 3475.44] in other -[3475.44 --> 3475.76] words -[3475.76 --> 3476.30] even -[3476.30 --> 3476.52] if -[3476.52 --> 3476.74] Luke -[3476.74 --> 3476.92] is -[3476.92 --> 3477.42] careful -[3477.42 --> 3477.76] how -[3477.76 --> 3478.00] do I -[3478.00 --> 3478.16] know -[3478.16 --> 3478.36] his -[3478.36 --> 3478.76] sources -[3478.76 --> 3479.02] are -[3479.02 --> 3479.32] credible -[3479.32 --> 3480.48] and they're -[3480.48 --> 3481.00] not just -[3481.00 --> 3481.72] creatively -[3481.72 --> 3482.36] mistaken -[3482.36 --> 3483.76] or creatively -[3483.76 --> 3484.88] mythologizing -[3484.88 --> 3486.30] and again -[3486.30 --> 3486.98] this is such -[3486.98 --> 3487.22] a good -[3487.22 --> 3487.68] question -[3487.68 --> 3488.28] and I -[3488.28 --> 3488.52] love -[3488.52 --> 3488.98] this -[3488.98 --> 3490.48] right -[3490.48 --> 3491.40] to be -[3491.40 --> 3491.78] honest -[3491.78 --> 3492.28] it's -[3492.28 --> 3492.46] also -[3492.46 --> 3492.74] a very -[3492.74 --> 3493.10] fair -[3493.10 --> 3493.62] question -[3493.62 --> 3494.96] because -[3494.96 --> 3495.46] yeah -[3495.46 --> 3496.30] you are -[3496.30 --> 3496.62] right -[3496.62 --> 3497.20] to say -[3497.20 --> 3497.74] that if -[3497.74 --> 3498.10] I'm up -[3498.10 --> 3498.24] here -[3498.24 --> 3498.60] saying -[3498.60 --> 3499.26] it's -[3499.26 --> 3499.80] eyewitness -[3499.80 --> 3500.32] testimony -[3500.32 --> 3501.10] that doesn't -[3501.10 --> 3501.80] automatically -[3501.80 --> 3502.30] make it -[3502.30 --> 3502.62] true -[3502.62 --> 3503.96] right -[3503.96 --> 3504.26] people -[3504.26 --> 3505.04] misremember -[3505.04 --> 3505.80] people -[3505.80 --> 3506.28] lie -[3506.28 --> 3507.00] people -[3507.00 --> 3507.46] get caught -[3507.46 --> 3507.74] up in -[3507.74 --> 3508.22] emotion -[3508.22 --> 3508.86] right -[3508.86 --> 3509.30] how -[3509.30 --> 3509.86] how -[3509.86 --> 3510.22] can we -[3510.22 --> 3510.64] know -[3510.64 --> 3511.70] from the -[3511.70 --> 3512.06] earliest -[3512.06 --> 3512.54] witnesses -[3512.54 --> 3513.44] to Jesus -[3513.44 --> 3513.96] that they -[3513.96 --> 3514.20] weren't -[3514.20 --> 3514.44] doing -[3514.44 --> 3514.82] that -[3514.82 --> 3515.98] how can -[3515.98 --> 3516.08] we -[3516.08 --> 3516.28] trust -[3516.28 --> 3516.60] them -[3516.60 --> 3519.62] here's -[3519.62 --> 3520.12] my first -[3520.12 --> 3521.22] step -[3521.22 --> 3521.46] in an -[3521.46 --> 3521.74] answer -[3521.74 --> 3525.42] because -[3525.42 --> 3526.50] these -[3526.50 --> 3527.06] weren't -[3527.06 --> 3527.50] just -[3527.50 --> 3528.34] casual -[3528.34 --> 3529.84] recollections -[3529.84 --> 3531.56] these -[3531.56 --> 3532.66] eyewitnesses -[3532.66 --> 3533.42] staked -[3533.42 --> 3533.76] their -[3533.76 --> 3534.42] lives -[3534.42 --> 3534.90] on -[3534.90 --> 3535.06] what -[3535.06 --> 3535.24] they -[3535.24 --> 3535.56] saw -[3535.56 --> 3537.02] right -[3537.02 --> 3537.16] they -[3537.16 --> 3537.30] didn't -[3537.30 --> 3537.48] just -[3537.48 --> 3537.98] remember -[3537.98 --> 3538.26] they -[3538.26 --> 3538.72] proclaimed -[3538.72 --> 3539.78] and -[3539.78 --> 3539.88] they -[3539.88 --> 3540.02] didn't -[3540.02 --> 3540.22] just -[3540.22 --> 3540.62] proclaim -[3540.62 --> 3540.94] they -[3540.94 --> 3541.48] suffered -[3541.48 --> 3542.18] persecution -[3542.18 --> 3543.92] right -[3543.92 --> 3544.22] people -[3544.22 --> 3544.68] will die -[3544.68 --> 3545.06] for a -[3545.06 --> 3545.22] lot -[3545.22 --> 3545.34] of -[3545.34 --> 3545.68] things -[3545.68 --> 3546.76] people -[3546.76 --> 3546.94] will -[3546.94 --> 3547.16] even -[3547.16 --> 3547.42] die -[3547.42 --> 3547.60] for -[3547.60 --> 3548.06] things -[3548.06 --> 3548.56] that -[3548.56 --> 3548.86] aren't -[3548.86 --> 3549.22] true -[3549.22 --> 3550.00] but -[3550.00 --> 3550.60] people -[3550.60 --> 3551.10] don't -[3551.10 --> 3551.48] die -[3551.48 --> 3551.82] for -[3551.82 --> 3552.16] things -[3552.16 --> 3552.40] they -[3552.40 --> 3552.76] know -[3552.76 --> 3552.96] to -[3552.96 --> 3553.10] be -[3553.10 --> 3553.26] a -[3553.26 --> 3553.54] lie -[3553.54 --> 3555.96] right -[3555.96 --> 3556.14] the -[3556.14 --> 3556.60] apostles -[3556.60 --> 3557.26] aren't -[3557.26 --> 3557.60] gaining -[3557.60 --> 3558.16] power -[3558.16 --> 3558.64] or -[3558.64 --> 3559.16] comfort -[3559.16 --> 3559.72] by -[3559.72 --> 3560.08] spreading -[3560.08 --> 3560.38] this -[3560.38 --> 3560.86] message -[3560.86 --> 3561.24] the -[3561.24 --> 3561.64] apostles -[3561.64 --> 3562.10] are -[3562.10 --> 3562.32] being -[3562.32 --> 3562.76] arrested -[3562.76 --> 3563.30] and -[3563.30 --> 3563.74] tortured -[3563.74 --> 3564.24] and -[3564.24 --> 3564.92] exiled -[3564.92 --> 3565.30] they're -[3565.30 --> 3565.50] being -[3565.50 --> 3565.98] killed -[3565.98 --> 3567.34] and -[3567.34 --> 3567.48] if -[3567.48 --> 3567.68] this -[3567.68 --> 3567.84] was -[3567.84 --> 3568.04] a -[3568.04 --> 3568.32] myth -[3568.32 --> 3568.80] or -[3568.80 --> 3569.00] a -[3569.00 --> 3569.24] made -[3569.24 --> 3569.44] up -[3569.44 --> 3569.92] memory -[3569.92 --> 3570.68] someone -[3570.68 --> 3571.06] would -[3571.06 --> 3571.26] have -[3571.26 --> 3571.76] cracked -[3571.76 --> 3573.10] but -[3573.10 --> 3573.36] no one -[3573.36 --> 3573.58] did -[3573.58 --> 3574.90] not -[3574.90 --> 3575.18] one -[3575.18 --> 3577.18] plus -[3577.18 --> 3578.08] we're -[3578.08 --> 3578.22] not -[3578.22 --> 3578.52] talking -[3578.52 --> 3578.72] about -[3578.72 --> 3578.86] an -[3578.86 --> 3579.34] isolated -[3579.34 --> 3579.80] account -[3579.80 --> 3580.86] right -[3580.86 --> 3581.24] we have -[3581.24 --> 3581.70] multiple -[3581.70 --> 3582.28] sources -[3582.28 --> 3582.66] Matthew -[3582.66 --> 3583.06] Mark -[3583.06 --> 3583.36] Luke -[3583.36 --> 3583.78] John -[3583.78 --> 3584.20] Paul -[3584.20 --> 3584.66] right -[3584.66 --> 3585.00] Peter -[3585.00 --> 3585.44] all -[3585.44 --> 3585.66] of -[3585.66 --> 3585.96] these -[3585.96 --> 3586.78] confirming -[3586.78 --> 3587.00] the -[3587.00 --> 3587.18] same -[3587.18 --> 3587.46] thing -[3587.46 --> 3587.86] all -[3587.86 --> 3588.38] written -[3588.38 --> 3588.82] within -[3588.82 --> 3589.08] a -[3589.08 --> 3589.58] generation -[3589.58 --> 3589.94] of -[3589.94 --> 3590.10] the -[3590.10 --> 3590.50] events -[3590.50 --> 3590.80] upon -[3590.80 --> 3591.06] which -[3591.06 --> 3591.48] they're -[3591.48 --> 3591.94] reflecting -[3591.94 --> 3592.36] all -[3592.36 --> 3592.60] with -[3592.60 --> 3592.78] this -[3592.78 --> 3593.40] incredible -[3593.40 --> 3594.02] internal -[3594.02 --> 3594.84] consistency -[3594.84 --> 3595.44] and -[3595.44 --> 3595.92] connection -[3595.92 --> 3596.28] to -[3596.28 --> 3596.58] real -[3596.58 --> 3596.96] people -[3596.96 --> 3597.56] real -[3597.56 --> 3598.00] places -[3598.00 --> 3598.46] and -[3598.46 --> 3598.74] real -[3598.74 --> 3599.12] events -[3599.12 --> 3600.32] and -[3600.32 --> 3600.44] if -[3600.44 --> 3600.56] you -[3600.56 --> 3600.96] dismiss -[3600.96 --> 3601.32] all -[3601.32 --> 3601.46] of -[3601.46 --> 3601.80] that -[3601.80 --> 3602.10] as -[3602.10 --> 3602.28] a -[3602.28 --> 3602.82] skeptic -[3602.82 --> 3603.26] you're -[3603.26 --> 3603.54] starting -[3603.54 --> 3603.74] to -[3603.74 --> 3604.02] become -[3604.02 --> 3604.26] a -[3604.26 --> 3604.70] cynic -[3604.70 --> 3606.48] because -[3606.48 --> 3606.62] if -[3606.62 --> 3606.72] you -[3606.72 --> 3607.14] dismiss -[3607.14 --> 3607.50] that -[3607.50 --> 3607.70] you -[3607.70 --> 3607.90] have -[3607.90 --> 3608.02] to -[3608.02 --> 3608.34] dismiss -[3608.34 --> 3608.72] most -[3608.72 --> 3608.88] of -[3608.88 --> 3609.00] what -[3609.00 --> 3609.14] we -[3609.14 --> 3609.30] know -[3609.30 --> 3609.48] about -[3609.48 --> 3609.62] the -[3609.62 --> 3609.86] ancient -[3609.86 --> 3610.16] world -[3610.16 --> 3611.66] you -[3611.66 --> 3611.96] can't -[3611.96 --> 3612.38] confidently -[3612.38 --> 3612.68] say -[3612.68 --> 3612.82] we -[3612.82 --> 3612.98] have -[3612.98 --> 3613.18] any -[3613.18 --> 3613.68] history -[3613.68 --> 3615.46] but -[3615.46 --> 3615.70] instead -[3615.70 --> 3615.88] of -[3615.88 --> 3616.74] dismissing -[3616.74 --> 3617.46] right -[3617.46 --> 3617.72] instead -[3617.72 --> 3617.86] of -[3617.86 --> 3618.46] dismissing -[3618.46 --> 3618.66] we -[3618.66 --> 3618.82] can -[3618.82 --> 3619.08] be -[3619.08 --> 3620.12] confident -[3620.12 --> 3621.72] our -[3621.72 --> 3622.32] translations -[3622.32 --> 3622.88] here -[3622.88 --> 3623.94] say -[3623.94 --> 3624.88] that -[3624.88 --> 3625.28] Luke -[3625.28 --> 3625.90] writes -[3625.90 --> 3626.28] so -[3626.28 --> 3626.52] that -[3626.52 --> 3626.70] you -[3626.70 --> 3626.94] can -[3626.94 --> 3627.24] know -[3627.24 --> 3627.52] the -[3627.52 --> 3628.22] certainty -[3628.22 --> 3629.62] but -[3629.62 --> 3629.80] that -[3629.80 --> 3630.02] word -[3630.02 --> 3630.70] certainty -[3630.70 --> 3632.10] doesn't -[3632.10 --> 3632.46] mean -[3632.46 --> 3633.42] certainty -[3633.42 --> 3634.08] in the -[3634.08 --> 3634.36] same -[3634.36 --> 3634.66] way -[3634.66 --> 3634.92] that -[3634.92 --> 3635.12] our -[3635.12 --> 3635.88] modern -[3635.88 --> 3636.46] language -[3636.46 --> 3636.64] or -[3636.64 --> 3636.90] modern -[3636.90 --> 3637.52] scientists -[3637.52 --> 3637.88] would -[3637.88 --> 3638.10] like -[3638.10 --> 3638.26] to -[3638.26 --> 3638.48] use -[3638.48 --> 3638.68] that -[3638.68 --> 3638.92] word -[3638.92 --> 3639.66] in -[3639.66 --> 3640.06] Greek -[3640.06 --> 3640.60] the -[3640.60 --> 3640.96] word -[3640.96 --> 3641.34] is -[3641.34 --> 3642.78] and -[3642.78 --> 3642.98] it -[3642.98 --> 3643.60] means -[3643.60 --> 3644.46] safety -[3644.46 --> 3644.96] or -[3644.96 --> 3645.72] security -[3645.72 --> 3648.14] safety -[3648.14 --> 3648.48] or -[3648.48 --> 3648.94] security -[3648.94 --> 3649.12] in -[3649.12 --> 3649.34] Acts -[3649.34 --> 3649.82] 5 -[3649.82 --> 3650.46] it's -[3650.46 --> 3650.70] the -[3650.70 --> 3650.90] same -[3650.90 --> 3651.08] word -[3651.08 --> 3651.24] is -[3651.24 --> 3651.68] used -[3651.68 --> 3652.20] to -[3652.20 --> 3652.76] describe -[3652.76 --> 3653.26] locked -[3653.26 --> 3653.84] doors -[3653.84 --> 3655.16] right -[3655.16 --> 3655.62] in -[3655.62 --> 3655.84] Acts -[3655.84 --> 3656.08] 5 -[3656.08 --> 3656.26] we -[3656.26 --> 3656.56] read -[3656.56 --> 3656.94] we -[3656.94 --> 3657.34] found -[3657.34 --> 3657.58] the -[3657.58 --> 3658.00] prison -[3658.00 --> 3658.80] securely -[3658.80 --> 3659.86] locked -[3659.86 --> 3660.48] and -[3660.48 --> 3660.64] the -[3660.64 --> 3661.00] guards -[3661.00 --> 3661.58] standing -[3661.58 --> 3661.84] at -[3661.84 --> 3661.96] the -[3661.96 --> 3662.30] doors -[3662.30 --> 3663.30] in -[3663.30 --> 3663.56] 1 -[3663.56 --> 3664.30] Thessalonians -[3664.30 --> 3664.68] 5 -[3664.68 --> 3664.98] it's -[3664.98 --> 3665.22] used -[3665.22 --> 3665.40] to -[3665.40 --> 3665.86] describe -[3665.86 --> 3666.08] a -[3666.08 --> 3666.38] feeling -[3666.38 --> 3666.74] of -[3666.74 --> 3667.30] peace -[3667.30 --> 3667.94] and -[3667.94 --> 3668.62] security -[3668.62 --> 3670.58] and -[3670.58 --> 3670.74] so -[3670.74 --> 3670.98] for -[3670.98 --> 3671.46] Luke -[3671.46 --> 3671.74] what -[3671.74 --> 3671.90] he -[3671.90 --> 3672.30] wants -[3672.30 --> 3672.64] for -[3672.64 --> 3672.98] us -[3672.98 --> 3673.20] is -[3673.20 --> 3673.46] so -[3673.46 --> 3673.76] much -[3673.76 --> 3674.28] more -[3674.28 --> 3674.80] than -[3674.80 --> 3675.04] a -[3675.04 --> 3675.62] cognitive -[3675.62 --> 3677.08] certainty -[3677.08 --> 3677.86] he -[3677.86 --> 3678.16] wants -[3678.16 --> 3678.30] you -[3678.30 --> 3678.44] to -[3678.44 --> 3678.62] have -[3678.62 --> 3678.86] a -[3678.86 --> 3679.60] security -[3679.60 --> 3680.38] a -[3680.38 --> 3680.68] kind -[3680.68 --> 3680.86] of -[3680.86 --> 3681.38] locked -[3681.38 --> 3681.92] down -[3681.92 --> 3682.50] truth -[3682.50 --> 3682.74] an -[3682.74 --> 3684.08] unshakable -[3684.08 --> 3685.00] reality -[3685.00 --> 3686.48] right -[3686.48 --> 3686.62] the -[3686.62 --> 3687.00] story -[3687.00 --> 3687.18] that -[3687.18 --> 3687.38] he's -[3687.38 --> 3687.70] telling -[3687.70 --> 3688.14] isn't -[3688.14 --> 3688.38] just -[3688.38 --> 3688.58] the -[3688.58 --> 3688.80] most -[3688.80 --> 3689.16] important -[3689.16 --> 3689.54] story -[3689.54 --> 3689.68] in -[3689.68 --> 3689.78] the -[3689.78 --> 3690.02] history -[3690.02 --> 3690.14] of -[3690.14 --> 3690.26] the -[3690.26 --> 3690.58] world -[3690.58 --> 3691.40] it's -[3691.40 --> 3691.82] also -[3691.82 --> 3692.38] true -[3692.38 --> 3694.46] and -[3694.46 --> 3694.70] Luke -[3694.70 --> 3695.06] wants -[3695.06 --> 3695.30] us -[3695.30 --> 3695.52] to -[3695.52 --> 3696.00] know -[3696.00 --> 3696.86] the -[3696.86 --> 3697.78] firmness -[3697.78 --> 3698.16] of -[3698.16 --> 3698.36] what -[3698.36 --> 3698.70] can -[3698.70 --> 3698.90] be -[3698.90 --> 3699.30] known -[3699.30 --> 3700.26] right -[3700.26 --> 3700.36] he -[3700.36 --> 3700.60] wants -[3700.60 --> 3700.76] us -[3700.76 --> 3700.90] to -[3700.90 --> 3701.12] know -[3701.12 --> 3701.40] this -[3701.40 --> 3701.82] truth -[3701.82 --> 3702.48] as a -[3702.48 --> 3702.86] mountain -[3702.86 --> 3703.50] not -[3703.50 --> 3703.80] as a -[3703.80 --> 3704.20] cloud -[3704.20 --> 3705.70] right -[3705.70 --> 3706.34] safety -[3706.34 --> 3707.24] security -[3707.24 --> 3708.30] unshakable -[3708.30 --> 3708.88] locked -[3708.88 --> 3709.28] down -[3709.28 --> 3710.42] unalterable -[3710.42 --> 3711.66] when you -[3711.66 --> 3712.12] are driving -[3712.12 --> 3712.56] home from -[3712.56 --> 3712.92] church -[3712.92 --> 3713.50] today -[3713.50 --> 3714.14] look at -[3714.14 --> 3714.54] the golden -[3714.54 --> 3714.82] years -[3714.82 --> 3715.30] mountains -[3715.30 --> 3716.00] to the -[3716.00 --> 3716.32] north -[3716.32 --> 3717.90] as firm -[3717.90 --> 3718.50] as they -[3718.50 --> 3718.88] are -[3718.88 --> 3719.96] that's -[3719.96 --> 3720.16] this -[3720.16 --> 3720.54] truth -[3720.54 --> 3725.12] Jesus -[3725.12 --> 3725.48] God -[3725.48 --> 3726.48] God -[3726.48 --> 3727.72] salvation -[3727.72 --> 3728.96] faith -[3728.96 --> 3730.08] as firm -[3730.08 --> 3730.74] as those -[3730.74 --> 3731.26] mountains -[3731.26 --> 3731.74] are -[3731.74 --> 3732.26] that -[3732.26 --> 3732.80] is -[3732.80 --> 3733.28] the -[3733.28 --> 3733.70] truth -[3733.70 --> 3734.22] about -[3734.22 --> 3735.04] him -[3735.04 --> 3735.90] God -[3735.90 --> 3736.10] is -[3736.10 --> 3736.64] active -[3736.64 --> 3736.98] God -[3736.98 --> 3737.26] is -[3737.26 --> 3737.76] present -[3737.76 --> 3738.42] God -[3738.42 --> 3738.72] is -[3738.72 --> 3739.42] saturated -[3739.42 --> 3740.28] in -[3740.28 --> 3740.48] and -[3740.48 --> 3740.74] through -[3740.74 --> 3741.16] these -[3741.16 --> 3741.64] chapters -[3741.64 --> 3741.98] of -[3741.98 --> 3742.44] history -[3742.44 --> 3743.14] Luke -[3743.14 --> 3743.42] in -[3743.42 --> 3743.58] his -[3743.58 --> 3743.92] writing -[3743.92 --> 3744.14] is -[3744.14 --> 3744.62] full -[3744.62 --> 3744.84] of -[3744.84 --> 3745.00] the -[3745.00 --> 3745.26] word -[3745.26 --> 3745.46] of -[3745.46 --> 3745.72] God -[3745.72 --> 3745.84] and -[3745.84 --> 3745.96] he -[3745.96 --> 3746.14] is -[3746.14 --> 3746.72] fixed -[3746.72 --> 3747.36] on -[3747.36 --> 3747.88] Jesus -[3747.88 --> 3748.22] and -[3748.22 --> 3748.70] Luke -[3748.70 --> 3749.04] wants -[3749.04 --> 3749.92] Theophilus -[3749.92 --> 3750.56] and -[3750.56 --> 3751.00] all -[3751.00 --> 3751.22] of -[3751.22 --> 3751.60] us -[3751.60 --> 3752.00] as -[3752.00 --> 3752.54] future -[3752.54 --> 3753.38] Theophiluses -[3753.38 --> 3754.16] to -[3754.16 --> 3754.90] know -[3754.90 --> 3755.50] this -[3755.50 --> 3756.24] truth -[3756.24 --> 3756.58] in -[3756.58 --> 3756.96] this -[3756.96 --> 3757.60] way -[3757.60 --> 3761.08] and -[3761.08 --> 3761.58] this -[3761.58 --> 3764.32] this -[3764.32 --> 3765.00] truth -[3765.00 --> 3767.36] revealed -[3767.36 --> 3767.64] in the -[3767.64 --> 3768.08] gospel -[3768.08 --> 3770.30] that I -[3770.30 --> 3770.70] am more -[3770.70 --> 3771.24] sinful -[3771.24 --> 3773.08] than I -[3773.08 --> 3773.64] could ever -[3773.64 --> 3774.44] admit -[3774.44 --> 3776.58] and -[3776.58 --> 3776.72] yet -[3776.72 --> 3776.88] I -[3776.88 --> 3777.14] am more -[3777.14 --> 3777.74] loved -[3777.74 --> 3778.06] than I -[3778.06 --> 3778.18] could -[3778.18 --> 3778.44] ever -[3778.44 --> 3778.82] imagine -[3778.82 --> 3779.40] possible -[3779.40 --> 3780.98] this -[3780.98 --> 3781.68] truth -[3781.68 --> 3782.18] that -[3782.18 --> 3782.60] Jesus -[3782.60 --> 3783.58] came -[3783.58 --> 3784.00] into -[3784.00 --> 3784.34] this -[3784.34 --> 3784.90] world -[3784.90 --> 3785.50] the -[3785.50 --> 3785.84] second -[3785.84 --> 3786.30] person -[3786.30 --> 3786.68] of -[3786.68 --> 3786.88] the -[3786.88 --> 3787.20] trinity -[3787.20 --> 3787.56] and -[3787.56 --> 3787.82] took -[3787.82 --> 3788.08] on -[3788.08 --> 3788.58] flesh -[3788.58 --> 3789.02] and -[3789.02 --> 3789.36] lived -[3789.36 --> 3789.52] the -[3789.52 --> 3789.78] life -[3789.78 --> 3789.96] I -[3789.96 --> 3790.16] should -[3790.16 --> 3790.30] have -[3790.30 --> 3790.62] lived -[3790.62 --> 3790.82] and -[3790.82 --> 3791.18] died -[3791.18 --> 3791.38] the -[3791.38 --> 3791.66] death -[3791.66 --> 3792.02] that -[3792.02 --> 3792.16] I -[3792.16 --> 3792.60] deserved -[3792.60 --> 3792.96] that -[3792.96 --> 3793.20] this -[3793.20 --> 3793.60] Jesus -[3793.60 --> 3793.98] three -[3793.98 --> 3794.32] days -[3794.32 --> 3794.66] later -[3794.66 --> 3794.90] was -[3794.90 --> 3795.38] raised -[3795.38 --> 3795.68] from -[3795.68 --> 3795.88] the -[3795.88 --> 3796.08] dead -[3796.08 --> 3796.90] victorious -[3796.90 --> 3797.44] over -[3797.44 --> 3797.82] sin -[3797.82 --> 3798.08] and -[3798.08 --> 3798.30] death -[3798.30 --> 3799.02] this -[3799.02 --> 3799.96] truth -[3799.96 --> 3802.46] changes -[3802.46 --> 3804.18] everything -[3804.18 --> 3806.10] so -[3806.10 --> 3806.58] humbly -[3806.58 --> 3807.72] and -[3807.72 --> 3808.42] pastorally -[3808.42 --> 3810.18] may I -[3810.18 --> 3810.62] suggest -[3810.62 --> 3811.16] to you -[3811.16 --> 3812.46] that the -[3812.46 --> 3813.06] reason -[3813.06 --> 3814.08] behind -[3814.08 --> 3814.54] the -[3814.54 --> 3815.02] reason -[3815.02 --> 3815.68] of -[3815.68 --> 3816.58] skeptic -[3816.58 --> 3817.14] challenges -[3817.14 --> 3817.80] to the -[3817.80 --> 3818.12] truth -[3818.12 --> 3818.48] of the -[3818.48 --> 3818.84] gospel -[3818.84 --> 3819.28] account -[3819.28 --> 3819.70] the -[3819.70 --> 3820.10] reason -[3820.10 --> 3820.68] behind -[3820.68 --> 3821.00] the -[3821.00 --> 3821.44] reason -[3821.44 --> 3822.22] isn't -[3822.22 --> 3822.74] because -[3822.74 --> 3823.02] it's -[3823.02 --> 3823.20] an -[3823.20 --> 3823.72] unlikely -[3823.72 --> 3824.60] history -[3824.60 --> 3826.66] instead -[3826.66 --> 3828.42] it's -[3828.42 --> 3828.64] because -[3828.64 --> 3829.08] if this -[3829.08 --> 3829.72] is true -[3829.72 --> 3830.54] really -[3830.54 --> 3831.04] true -[3831.04 --> 3832.12] then -[3832.12 --> 3833.02] everything -[3833.02 --> 3833.92] must -[3833.92 --> 3834.56] change -[3834.56 --> 3836.50] if -[3836.50 --> 3836.88] Jesus -[3836.88 --> 3837.20] is -[3837.20 --> 3837.50] really -[3837.50 --> 3837.88] raised -[3837.88 --> 3838.12] from -[3838.12 --> 3838.28] the -[3838.28 --> 3838.54] dead -[3838.54 --> 3838.92] then -[3838.92 --> 3839.06] I -[3839.06 --> 3839.24] should -[3839.24 --> 3839.56] listen -[3839.56 --> 3839.70] to -[3839.70 --> 3839.92] him -[3839.92 --> 3840.74] and -[3840.74 --> 3840.86] if -[3840.86 --> 3841.00] I -[3841.00 --> 3841.20] should -[3841.20 --> 3841.54] listen -[3841.54 --> 3841.72] to -[3841.72 --> 3842.02] him -[3842.02 --> 3842.42] if -[3842.42 --> 3842.56] he -[3842.56 --> 3842.86] really -[3842.86 --> 3843.20] does -[3843.20 --> 3843.38] have -[3843.38 --> 3843.52] the -[3843.52 --> 3843.84] words -[3843.84 --> 3843.98] of -[3843.98 --> 3844.30] eternal -[3844.30 --> 3844.62] life -[3844.62 --> 3844.94] then -[3844.94 --> 3845.04] I -[3845.04 --> 3845.18] must -[3845.18 --> 3845.56] trust -[3845.56 --> 3845.88] him -[3845.88 --> 3847.58] and -[3847.58 --> 3847.76] it's -[3847.76 --> 3848.08] this -[3848.08 --> 3848.60] move -[3848.60 --> 3849.02] right -[3849.02 --> 3849.30] this -[3849.30 --> 3849.62] move -[3849.62 --> 3849.90] from -[3849.90 --> 3850.86] reliability -[3850.86 --> 3851.90] to -[3851.90 --> 3852.64] trustworthy -[3852.64 --> 3853.70] that -[3853.70 --> 3854.36] faith -[3854.36 --> 3854.86] is -[3854.86 --> 3855.16] found -[3855.16 --> 3855.46] in -[3855.46 --> 3857.80] right -[3857.80 --> 3858.22] even -[3858.22 --> 3858.96] skeptical -[3858.96 --> 3859.46] and -[3859.46 --> 3859.88] secular -[3859.88 --> 3860.54] scholars -[3860.54 --> 3860.94] agree -[3860.94 --> 3861.18] that -[3861.18 --> 3861.48] most -[3861.48 --> 3861.80] of what -[3861.80 --> 3861.92] is -[3861.92 --> 3862.10] said -[3862.10 --> 3862.34] about -[3862.34 --> 3862.66] Jesus -[3862.66 --> 3862.84] and -[3862.84 --> 3862.98] the -[3862.98 --> 3863.38] gospels -[3863.38 --> 3863.84] is -[3863.84 --> 3864.20] true -[3864.20 --> 3864.72] it's -[3864.72 --> 3865.22] reliable -[3865.22 --> 3865.82] history -[3865.82 --> 3866.36] but -[3866.36 --> 3866.54] for -[3866.54 --> 3866.80] you -[3866.80 --> 3867.04] to -[3867.04 --> 3867.32] build -[3867.32 --> 3867.52] your -[3867.52 --> 3867.98] life -[3867.98 --> 3868.30] on -[3868.30 --> 3868.48] it -[3868.48 --> 3868.86] you -[3868.86 --> 3869.08] must -[3869.08 --> 3869.52] also -[3869.52 --> 3869.96] believe -[3869.96 --> 3870.28] it's -[3870.28 --> 3870.90] trustworthy -[3870.90 --> 3873.24] reliability -[3873.24 --> 3874.08] exists -[3874.08 --> 3874.48] in your -[3874.48 --> 3874.88] head -[3874.88 --> 3876.26] trustworthy -[3876.26 --> 3877.04] lives -[3877.04 --> 3877.30] in your -[3877.30 --> 3877.64] heart -[3877.64 --> 3880.88] that's -[3880.88 --> 3881.08] the -[3881.08 --> 3881.42] shift -[3881.42 --> 3882.48] we -[3882.48 --> 3882.70] need -[3882.70 --> 3883.14] next -[3883.14 --> 3886.30] here -[3886.30 --> 3886.70] at -[3886.70 --> 3887.46] Langley -[3887.46 --> 3887.76] Emanuel -[3887.76 --> 3888.12] we've -[3888.12 --> 3888.30] just -[3888.30 --> 3888.72] finished -[3888.72 --> 3889.34] a year -[3889.34 --> 3889.68] of -[3889.68 --> 3890.48] reading -[3890.48 --> 3891.52] catechism -[3891.52 --> 3891.88] together -[3891.88 --> 3892.18] and -[3892.18 --> 3892.66] discussing -[3892.66 --> 3892.92] it -[3892.92 --> 3893.08] in -[3893.08 --> 3893.28] one -[3893.28 --> 3893.42] of -[3893.42 --> 3893.66] our -[3893.66 --> 3894.28] adult -[3894.28 --> 3894.54] ed -[3894.54 --> 3895.06] classes -[3895.06 --> 3896.60] I -[3896.60 --> 3896.86] can't -[3896.86 --> 3897.04] say -[3897.04 --> 3897.18] it -[3897.18 --> 3897.36] better -[3897.36 --> 3897.54] than -[3897.54 --> 3897.68] the -[3897.68 --> 3898.12] catechism -[3898.12 --> 3898.38] does -[3898.38 --> 3898.50] and -[3898.50 --> 3898.58] so -[3898.58 --> 3898.68] I'm -[3898.68 --> 3898.78] just -[3898.78 --> 3898.92] going -[3898.92 --> 3899.00] to -[3899.00 --> 3899.24] read -[3899.24 --> 3899.36] it -[3899.36 --> 3899.48] this -[3899.48 --> 3899.60] is -[3899.60 --> 3899.92] question -[3899.92 --> 3900.08] and -[3900.08 --> 3900.30] answer -[3900.30 --> 3900.88] 21 -[3900.88 --> 3901.60] from -[3901.60 --> 3901.70] the -[3901.70 --> 3902.02] Heidelberg -[3902.02 --> 3902.50] Catechism -[3902.50 --> 3903.00] it -[3903.00 --> 3903.30] asks -[3903.30 --> 3903.66] what -[3903.66 --> 3904.12] is -[3904.12 --> 3904.52] true -[3904.52 --> 3905.18] faith -[3905.18 --> 3906.40] and -[3906.40 --> 3906.52] the -[3906.52 --> 3906.76] answer -[3906.76 --> 3907.06] is -[3907.06 --> 3907.32] true -[3907.32 --> 3907.72] faith -[3907.72 --> 3907.96] is -[3907.96 --> 3908.26] not -[3908.26 --> 3908.76] only -[3908.76 --> 3909.12] a -[3909.12 --> 3909.38] sure -[3909.38 --> 3910.08] knowledge -[3910.08 --> 3910.96] by -[3910.96 --> 3911.20] which -[3911.20 --> 3911.46] I -[3911.46 --> 3911.80] hold -[3911.80 --> 3912.10] as -[3912.10 --> 3912.44] true -[3912.44 --> 3912.86] all -[3912.86 --> 3913.06] that -[3913.06 --> 3913.30] God -[3913.30 --> 3913.50] has -[3913.50 --> 3913.82] revealed -[3913.82 --> 3914.02] to -[3914.02 --> 3914.22] us -[3914.22 --> 3914.38] in -[3914.38 --> 3914.68] scripture -[3914.68 --> 3915.40] it -[3915.40 --> 3915.60] is -[3915.60 --> 3916.06] also -[3916.06 --> 3916.44] a -[3916.44 --> 3916.80] whole -[3916.80 --> 3917.36] hearted -[3917.36 --> 3917.88] trust -[3917.88 --> 3918.92] which -[3918.92 --> 3919.10] the -[3919.10 --> 3919.32] Holy -[3919.32 --> 3919.68] Spirit -[3919.68 --> 3920.26] creates -[3920.26 --> 3920.46] in -[3920.46 --> 3920.78] me -[3920.78 --> 3921.28] by -[3921.28 --> 3921.44] the -[3921.44 --> 3921.82] gospel -[3921.82 --> 3923.20] true -[3923.20 --> 3923.54] faith -[3923.54 --> 3923.72] is -[3923.72 --> 3923.94] both -[3923.94 --> 3924.08] a -[3924.08 --> 3924.60] reliable -[3924.60 --> 3925.26] knowledge -[3925.26 --> 3926.06] and -[3926.06 --> 3926.24] a -[3926.24 --> 3926.50] whole -[3926.50 --> 3926.96] hearted -[3926.96 --> 3927.60] trust -[3927.60 --> 3928.16] a -[3928.16 --> 3928.56] deep -[3928.56 --> 3928.90] rooted -[3928.90 --> 3929.38] assurance -[3929.38 --> 3929.74] and -[3929.74 --> 3929.94] we -[3929.94 --> 3930.24] need -[3930.24 --> 3930.68] both -[3930.68 --> 3932.90] and -[3932.90 --> 3933.04] so -[3933.04 --> 3933.20] let -[3933.20 --> 3933.28] me -[3933.28 --> 3933.52] ask -[3933.52 --> 3933.64] you -[3933.64 --> 3933.94] again -[3933.94 --> 3935.86] in -[3935.86 --> 3936.00] a -[3936.00 --> 3936.38] world -[3936.38 --> 3936.68] that -[3936.68 --> 3937.20] feels -[3937.20 --> 3937.90] slippery -[3937.90 --> 3938.56] and -[3938.56 --> 3938.70] where -[3938.70 --> 3939.12] trust -[3939.12 --> 3939.40] is -[3939.40 --> 3939.82] rare -[3939.82 --> 3940.22] and -[3940.22 --> 3940.38] where -[3940.38 --> 3940.88] commitment -[3940.88 --> 3941.38] feels -[3941.38 --> 3941.92] risky -[3941.92 --> 3942.48] is -[3942.48 --> 3942.70] there -[3942.70 --> 3943.26] anything -[3943.26 --> 3943.76] you can -[3943.76 --> 3943.96] build -[3943.96 --> 3944.12] your -[3944.12 --> 3944.36] life -[3944.36 --> 3944.64] on -[3944.64 --> 3947.48] there -[3947.48 --> 3947.84] is -[3947.84 --> 3949.22] there -[3949.22 --> 3949.68] is -[3949.68 --> 3950.30] right -[3950.30 --> 3950.68] the -[3950.68 --> 3951.04] the -[3951.04 --> 3952.32] beautiful -[3952.32 --> 3952.92] big -[3952.92 --> 3953.50] idea -[3953.50 --> 3953.98] of -[3953.98 --> 3955.04] Pentecost -[3955.04 --> 3955.40] and -[3955.40 --> 3955.78] of -[3955.78 --> 3956.24] the -[3956.24 --> 3956.70] purpose -[3956.70 --> 3957.00] of -[3957.00 --> 3957.22] the -[3957.22 --> 3957.62] gospel -[3957.62 --> 3958.10] is -[3958.10 --> 3958.26] that -[3958.26 --> 3958.60] it -[3958.60 --> 3958.98] isn't -[3958.98 --> 3959.24] just -[3959.24 --> 3959.72] true -[3959.72 --> 3960.68] it's -[3960.68 --> 3961.10] secure -[3961.10 --> 3962.62] and -[3962.62 --> 3962.76] the -[3962.76 --> 3962.98] Holy -[3962.98 --> 3963.42] Spirit -[3963.42 --> 3963.78] makes -[3963.78 --> 3963.96] it -[3963.96 --> 3964.38] real -[3964.38 --> 3964.78] and -[3964.78 --> 3965.26] firm -[3965.26 --> 3965.58] and -[3965.58 --> 3966.08] trustworthy -[3966.08 --> 3966.90] in -[3966.90 --> 3967.08] your -[3967.08 --> 3967.40] heart -[3967.40 --> 3968.84] the -[3968.84 --> 3969.22] gospel -[3969.22 --> 3969.62] isn't -[3969.62 --> 3969.86] just -[3969.86 --> 3970.26] true -[3970.26 --> 3970.64] it's -[3970.64 --> 3971.06] secure -[3971.06 --> 3971.56] and -[3971.56 --> 3971.70] the -[3971.70 --> 3971.90] Holy -[3971.90 --> 3972.24] Spirit -[3972.24 --> 3972.50] makes -[3972.50 --> 3972.66] it -[3972.66 --> 3973.20] real -[3973.20 --> 3973.44] and -[3973.44 --> 3973.84] firm -[3973.84 --> 3974.08] and -[3974.08 --> 3974.58] trustworthy -[3974.58 --> 3975.36] in -[3975.36 --> 3975.54] your -[3975.54 --> 3975.86] heart -[3975.86 --> 3979.02] imagine -[3979.02 --> 3980.42] that you're -[3980.42 --> 3981.04] standing on -[3981.04 --> 3981.34] the edge -[3981.34 --> 3981.58] of a -[3981.58 --> 3981.96] canyon -[3981.96 --> 3982.90] and there's -[3982.90 --> 3983.40] a bridge -[3983.40 --> 3984.10] that spans -[3984.10 --> 3984.70] the gap -[3984.70 --> 3986.14] and you've -[3986.14 --> 3986.68] studied this -[3986.68 --> 3987.06] bridge -[3987.06 --> 3988.76] the engineering -[3988.76 --> 3989.48] checks out -[3989.48 --> 3990.76] the steel -[3990.76 --> 3991.70] cables look -[3991.70 --> 3992.44] strong enough -[3992.44 --> 3993.26] the bolts -[3993.26 --> 3993.88] holding it -[3993.88 --> 3994.72] to the bedrock -[3994.72 --> 3995.52] look sound -[3995.52 --> 3995.84] enough -[3995.84 --> 3996.60] you've even -[3996.60 --> 3997.26] watched other -[3997.26 --> 3998.04] people cross -[3998.04 --> 3999.24] you know -[3999.24 --> 4000.10] in your -[4000.10 --> 4000.60] head -[4000.60 --> 4001.40] that you can -[4001.40 --> 4002.20] take a step -[4002.20 --> 4002.98] out onto -[4002.98 --> 4003.56] the bridge -[4003.56 --> 4004.40] but until -[4004.40 --> 4005.02] your weight -[4005.02 --> 4005.50] is on -[4005.50 --> 4006.06] that bridge -[4006.06 --> 4006.70] you haven't -[4006.70 --> 4007.10] actually -[4007.10 --> 4007.90] trusted it -[4007.90 --> 4008.34] yet -[4008.34 --> 4013.10] it's not -[4013.10 --> 4013.46] enough just -[4013.46 --> 4013.90] to know -[4013.90 --> 4014.26] that it -[4014.26 --> 4014.74] holds -[4014.74 --> 4016.38] but if we -[4016.38 --> 4017.18] step out -[4017.18 --> 4018.40] because we -[4018.40 --> 4018.98] believe -[4018.98 --> 4019.70] we trust -[4019.70 --> 4020.40] that it -[4020.40 --> 4020.72] will hold -[4020.72 --> 4021.04] us -[4021.04 --> 4023.34] a little -[4023.34 --> 4023.86] while ago -[4023.86 --> 4025.40] my family -[4025.40 --> 4026.24] and some -[4026.24 --> 4026.66] friends -[4026.66 --> 4027.08] we went -[4027.08 --> 4027.38] to -[4027.38 --> 4028.16] Cascade -[4028.16 --> 4028.60] Falls -[4028.60 --> 4029.30] suspension -[4029.30 --> 4029.72] bridge -[4029.72 --> 4030.88] just north -[4030.88 --> 4031.04] of -[4031.04 --> 4031.32] Mission -[4031.32 --> 4032.02] maybe -[4032.02 --> 4032.30] you're -[4032.30 --> 4032.74] familiar -[4032.74 --> 4033.06] with it -[4033.06 --> 4033.28] I think -[4033.28 --> 4033.46] we have -[4033.46 --> 4033.86] a picture -[4033.86 --> 4034.94] that we -[4034.94 --> 4035.28] can throw -[4035.28 --> 4035.48] up -[4035.48 --> 4036.22] and it -[4036.22 --> 4036.82] was really -[4036.82 --> 4037.52] fascinating -[4037.52 --> 4038.64] to watch -[4038.64 --> 4039.30] the younger -[4039.30 --> 4039.86] kids -[4039.86 --> 4040.56] figure out -[4040.56 --> 4041.16] this bridge -[4041.16 --> 4042.94] right -[4042.94 --> 4043.26] they could -[4043.26 --> 4043.80] see that -[4043.80 --> 4044.08] it was -[4044.08 --> 4044.52] safe -[4044.52 --> 4045.26] because -[4045.26 --> 4045.64] you know -[4045.64 --> 4045.96] we all -[4045.96 --> 4046.20] walked -[4046.20 --> 4046.56] across -[4046.56 --> 4046.80] it -[4046.80 --> 4047.98] their brains -[4047.98 --> 4048.42] knew it -[4048.42 --> 4048.94] was safe -[4048.94 --> 4050.44] but their -[4050.44 --> 4050.82] legs -[4050.82 --> 4051.36] as they -[4051.36 --> 4051.90] tried to -[4051.90 --> 4052.20] go -[4052.20 --> 4053.58] wouldn't -[4053.58 --> 4054.16] believe -[4054.16 --> 4054.64] that it -[4054.64 --> 4055.16] was safe -[4055.16 --> 4056.66] wouldn't -[4056.66 --> 4057.08] trust -[4057.08 --> 4057.76] that it -[4057.76 --> 4058.22] was safe -[4058.22 --> 4058.76] and their -[4058.76 --> 4059.04] legs -[4059.04 --> 4059.32] didn't -[4059.32 --> 4059.72] get that -[4059.72 --> 4060.06] message -[4060.06 --> 4060.40] until -[4060.40 --> 4060.56] they -[4060.56 --> 4060.70] were -[4060.70 --> 4061.04] halfway -[4061.04 --> 4061.62] across -[4061.62 --> 4062.76] and could -[4062.76 --> 4063.12] stand -[4063.12 --> 4063.44] there -[4063.44 --> 4064.24] and test -[4064.24 --> 4064.40] it -[4064.40 --> 4064.58] and be -[4064.58 --> 4064.74] like -[4064.74 --> 4064.96] hey -[4064.96 --> 4065.58] this -[4065.58 --> 4065.90] actually -[4065.90 --> 4066.32] works -[4066.32 --> 4068.94] that's -[4068.94 --> 4069.10] what -[4069.10 --> 4069.46] faith -[4069.46 --> 4069.86] feels -[4069.86 --> 4070.16] like -[4070.16 --> 4070.78] sometimes -[4070.78 --> 4072.74] right -[4072.74 --> 4072.92] true -[4072.92 --> 4073.18] faith -[4073.18 --> 4073.48] isn't -[4073.48 --> 4073.66] just -[4073.66 --> 4074.08] knowing -[4074.08 --> 4074.44] that -[4074.44 --> 4074.60] the -[4074.60 --> 4074.86] bridge -[4074.86 --> 4075.12] is -[4075.12 --> 4075.50] sound -[4075.50 --> 4075.80] it's -[4075.80 --> 4076.12] walking -[4076.12 --> 4076.64] across -[4076.64 --> 4078.30] and at -[4078.30 --> 4078.62] the risk -[4078.62 --> 4079.10] of stretching -[4079.10 --> 4079.72] this analogy -[4079.72 --> 4080.40] too far -[4080.40 --> 4081.66] the littlest -[4081.66 --> 4082.22] among us -[4082.22 --> 4082.86] just couldn't -[4082.86 --> 4083.24] do it -[4083.24 --> 4084.78] they needed -[4084.78 --> 4085.28] to be picked -[4085.28 --> 4085.66] up and -[4085.66 --> 4086.00] carried -[4086.00 --> 4089.42] but that's -[4089.42 --> 4089.66] the other -[4089.66 --> 4090.50] beautiful reality -[4090.50 --> 4091.42] that's going -[4091.42 --> 4091.88] on here -[4091.88 --> 4093.42] right -[4093.42 --> 4093.98] true faith -[4093.98 --> 4094.26] is a -[4094.26 --> 4094.70] wholehearted -[4094.70 --> 4095.26] trust -[4095.26 --> 4095.70] which the -[4095.70 --> 4096.40] holy spirit -[4096.40 --> 4097.16] creates in -[4097.16 --> 4097.46] me -[4097.46 --> 4098.22] by the -[4098.22 --> 4098.62] gospel -[4098.62 --> 4099.32] that's -[4099.32 --> 4099.78] why we -[4099.78 --> 4100.22] read -[4100.22 --> 4100.58] acts -[4100.58 --> 4100.96] two -[4100.96 --> 4102.66] right -[4102.66 --> 4103.18] the move -[4103.18 --> 4103.46] from -[4103.46 --> 4104.04] reliability -[4104.04 --> 4104.88] to -[4104.88 --> 4105.48] trustworthy -[4105.48 --> 4106.04] from -[4106.04 --> 4106.62] certainty -[4106.62 --> 4106.94] to -[4106.94 --> 4107.54] security -[4107.54 --> 4108.16] from -[4108.16 --> 4108.54] head -[4108.54 --> 4108.88] to -[4108.88 --> 4109.30] heart -[4109.30 --> 4110.10] requires -[4110.10 --> 4110.86] in us -[4110.86 --> 4111.26] the work -[4111.26 --> 4111.48] of the -[4111.48 --> 4111.68] holy -[4111.68 --> 4112.10] spirit -[4112.10 --> 4113.76] in the -[4113.76 --> 4114.42] last days -[4114.42 --> 4114.74] God -[4114.74 --> 4115.06] says -[4115.06 --> 4115.42] I will -[4115.42 --> 4115.76] pour -[4115.76 --> 4116.00] out -[4116.00 --> 4116.26] my -[4116.26 --> 4116.70] spirit -[4116.70 --> 4116.96] on -[4116.96 --> 4117.36] all -[4117.36 --> 4118.12] people -[4118.12 --> 4119.28] I will -[4119.28 --> 4119.50] show -[4119.50 --> 4120.10] wonders -[4120.10 --> 4120.78] in the -[4120.78 --> 4121.00] heavens -[4121.00 --> 4121.36] above -[4121.36 --> 4121.94] and signs -[4121.94 --> 4122.24] on the -[4122.24 --> 4122.44] earth -[4122.44 --> 4122.76] below -[4122.76 --> 4123.42] and everyone -[4123.42 --> 4124.10] who calls -[4124.10 --> 4124.36] on the -[4124.36 --> 4124.64] name -[4124.64 --> 4124.90] of the -[4124.90 --> 4125.22] Lord -[4125.22 --> 4126.14] will be -[4126.14 --> 4126.86] saved -[4126.86 --> 4131.86] look -[4131.86 --> 4134.40] this is -[4134.40 --> 4135.02] where I'm -[4135.02 --> 4135.36] in my -[4135.36 --> 4135.94] own life -[4135.94 --> 4137.48] really -[4137.48 --> 4138.06] trying to -[4138.06 --> 4138.56] lean in -[4138.56 --> 4140.72] lately -[4140.72 --> 4141.68] I have -[4141.68 --> 4141.88] been -[4141.88 --> 4142.34] praying -[4142.34 --> 4144.40] Holy -[4144.40 --> 4144.92] Spirit -[4144.92 --> 4145.92] help me -[4145.92 --> 4146.42] take -[4146.42 --> 4147.02] the -[4147.02 --> 4147.64] unknown -[4147.64 --> 4148.22] step -[4148.22 --> 4150.22] help me -[4150.22 --> 4150.72] to really -[4150.72 --> 4151.28] trust -[4151.28 --> 4152.58] so that I -[4152.58 --> 4153.24] go places -[4153.24 --> 4153.66] I'm not -[4153.66 --> 4154.04] prepared -[4154.04 --> 4154.40] for -[4154.40 --> 4155.64] help me -[4155.64 --> 4155.98] to ask -[4155.98 --> 4156.44] questions -[4156.44 --> 4156.86] I don't -[4156.86 --> 4157.16] know the -[4157.16 --> 4157.48] answers -[4157.48 --> 4157.74] to -[4157.74 --> 4158.98] help me -[4158.98 --> 4159.54] to walk -[4159.54 --> 4160.14] with people -[4160.14 --> 4160.76] I don't -[4160.76 --> 4161.18] already -[4161.18 --> 4161.70] know -[4161.70 --> 4162.28] and to -[4162.28 --> 4162.80] tell them -[4162.80 --> 4163.04] about -[4163.04 --> 4163.46] Jesus -[4163.46 --> 4164.26] and the -[4164.26 --> 4164.64] gospel -[4164.64 --> 4169.44] this week -[4169.44 --> 4170.24] a man -[4170.24 --> 4170.56] that I -[4170.56 --> 4170.96] consider -[4170.96 --> 4171.50] a mentor -[4171.50 --> 4172.50] and a -[4172.50 --> 4172.84] teacher -[4172.84 --> 4174.38] he asked -[4174.38 --> 4174.72] a group -[4174.72 --> 4175.06] of us -[4175.06 --> 4175.44] pastors -[4175.44 --> 4176.20] who had -[4176.20 --> 4176.50] gathered -[4176.50 --> 4176.94] together -[4176.94 --> 4177.88] he asked -[4177.88 --> 4179.74] do we -[4179.74 --> 4180.20] really -[4180.20 --> 4180.70] believe -[4180.70 --> 4181.62] that Jesus -[4181.62 --> 4182.54] invitation -[4182.54 --> 4183.60] to come -[4183.60 --> 4184.24] and follow -[4184.24 --> 4184.56] him -[4184.56 --> 4185.78] is the -[4185.78 --> 4186.14] best -[4186.14 --> 4186.66] news -[4186.66 --> 4187.12] ever -[4187.12 --> 4190.34] do I -[4190.34 --> 4190.68] really -[4190.68 --> 4191.08] believe -[4191.08 --> 4191.92] that following -[4191.92 --> 4192.34] Jesus -[4192.34 --> 4192.80] is the -[4192.80 --> 4193.34] best thing -[4193.34 --> 4193.86] for me -[4193.86 --> 4194.54] and for -[4194.54 --> 4194.92] everyone -[4194.92 --> 4195.24] in the -[4195.24 --> 4195.50] world -[4195.50 --> 4196.62] and if -[4196.62 --> 4197.24] I really -[4197.24 --> 4197.74] believed -[4197.74 --> 4198.12] that -[4198.12 --> 4199.76] would -[4199.76 --> 4199.94] my -[4199.94 --> 4200.26] life -[4200.26 --> 4200.48] look -[4200.48 --> 4200.68] the -[4200.68 --> 4201.00] same -[4201.00 --> 4201.18] as -[4201.18 --> 4201.32] it -[4201.32 --> 4201.60] currently -[4201.60 --> 4201.96] does -[4201.96 --> 4205.62] I -[4205.62 --> 4206.16] believe -[4206.16 --> 4207.74] I -[4207.74 --> 4207.92] want -[4207.92 --> 4208.10] more -[4208.10 --> 4208.64] trust -[4208.64 --> 4214.44] and here's -[4214.44 --> 4215.00] the hope -[4215.00 --> 4215.68] that we -[4215.68 --> 4216.16] cling to -[4216.16 --> 4216.88] okay -[4216.88 --> 4219.76] because even -[4219.76 --> 4220.44] as we pray -[4220.44 --> 4221.10] I believe -[4221.10 --> 4221.50] help my -[4221.50 --> 4222.02] unbelief -[4222.02 --> 4222.84] even as -[4222.84 --> 4223.38] we pray -[4223.38 --> 4224.16] I know -[4224.16 --> 4224.80] help me -[4224.80 --> 4225.42] to trust -[4225.42 --> 4226.32] even as -[4226.32 --> 4227.20] we dive -[4227.20 --> 4228.24] into this -[4228.24 --> 4229.28] truth and -[4229.28 --> 4230.26] reality of -[4230.26 --> 4230.98] true faith -[4230.98 --> 4232.06] let's also -[4232.06 --> 4233.08] realize and -[4233.08 --> 4233.74] see that -[4233.74 --> 4234.48] faith -[4234.48 --> 4235.62] isn't our -[4235.62 --> 4236.02] own -[4236.02 --> 4236.62] achievement -[4236.62 --> 4237.48] faith -[4237.48 --> 4238.64] is a -[4238.64 --> 4239.16] gift -[4239.16 --> 4240.70] right the -[4240.70 --> 4241.54] Holy Spirit -[4241.54 --> 4242.16] doesn't just -[4242.16 --> 4243.00] explain the -[4243.00 --> 4243.60] gospel to -[4243.60 --> 4244.26] us he -[4244.26 --> 4245.10] awakens us -[4245.10 --> 4245.56] to it -[4245.56 --> 4247.12] the Holy Spirit -[4247.12 --> 4247.64] doesn't just -[4247.64 --> 4248.52] inform us -[4248.52 --> 4249.24] he transforms -[4249.24 --> 4249.88] us -[4249.88 --> 4251.16] and it's the -[4251.16 --> 4251.92] Spirit who -[4251.92 --> 4252.56] opens your -[4252.56 --> 4253.34] eyes who -[4253.34 --> 4254.28] softens our -[4254.28 --> 4254.80] hearts and -[4254.80 --> 4255.22] who gives -[4255.22 --> 4255.64] us the -[4255.64 --> 4256.34] strength to -[4256.34 --> 4256.90] step out -[4256.90 --> 4257.44] onto that -[4257.44 --> 4258.52] bridge even -[4258.52 --> 4259.04] when our -[4259.04 --> 4260.14] knees shake -[4260.14 --> 4261.06] the Spirit -[4261.06 --> 4262.52] steadies us -[4262.52 --> 4264.96] and so -[4264.96 --> 4265.66] how do we -[4265.66 --> 4266.16] respond -[4266.16 --> 4268.22] how do we -[4268.22 --> 4268.94] respond today -[4268.94 --> 4271.96] if it's the -[4271.96 --> 4272.92] Spirit who -[4272.92 --> 4273.62] gives faith -[4273.62 --> 4274.08] then we -[4274.08 --> 4274.86] must ask -[4274.86 --> 4276.38] we must -[4276.38 --> 4276.86] seek -[4276.86 --> 4277.80] we must -[4277.80 --> 4278.48] welcome -[4278.48 --> 4279.18] him -[4279.18 --> 4280.02] and that -[4280.02 --> 4280.48] doesn't mean -[4280.48 --> 4281.10] trying to -[4281.10 --> 4282.02] manufacture an -[4282.02 --> 4282.46] emotional -[4282.46 --> 4283.18] moment -[4283.18 --> 4283.92] it means -[4283.92 --> 4284.40] placing -[4284.40 --> 4284.94] yourself -[4284.94 --> 4285.96] again and -[4285.96 --> 4286.54] again and -[4286.54 --> 4287.34] again where -[4287.34 --> 4287.88] the Spirit -[4287.88 --> 4288.68] loves to -[4288.68 --> 4289.14] work and -[4289.14 --> 4289.82] promises to -[4289.82 --> 4290.08] be -[4290.08 --> 4291.58] in the -[4291.58 --> 4291.92] Word -[4291.92 --> 4293.34] in prayer -[4293.34 --> 4294.38] in worship -[4294.38 --> 4295.16] in the -[4295.16 --> 4295.48] Christian -[4295.48 --> 4296.02] community -[4296.02 --> 4296.84] together -[4296.84 --> 4297.68] the Spirit -[4297.68 --> 4298.44] uses these -[4298.44 --> 4299.44] ordinary means -[4299.44 --> 4299.84] to do -[4299.84 --> 4300.38] extraordinary -[4300.38 --> 4301.04] things -[4301.04 --> 4301.90] to carry -[4301.90 --> 4302.40] us when -[4302.40 --> 4303.18] we can't -[4303.18 --> 4303.56] walk -[4303.56 --> 4304.02] to keep -[4304.02 --> 4304.62] us growing -[4304.62 --> 4305.66] in wholehearted -[4305.66 --> 4306.70] trust in -[4306.70 --> 4307.06] Jesus -[4307.06 --> 4309.42] if you -[4309.42 --> 4310.00] are wondering -[4310.00 --> 4313.60] if you -[4313.60 --> 4313.98] are trying -[4313.98 --> 4314.42] to grab -[4314.42 --> 4314.84] hold of -[4314.84 --> 4315.18] a truth -[4315.18 --> 4315.62] that feels -[4315.62 --> 4316.14] slippery -[4316.14 --> 4318.18] if you -[4318.18 --> 4318.76] are aching -[4318.76 --> 4319.46] for something -[4319.46 --> 4320.00] firm -[4320.00 --> 4321.64] I just want -[4321.64 --> 4322.54] to plead -[4322.54 --> 4323.06] with you -[4323.06 --> 4323.96] this morning -[4323.96 --> 4326.14] give your -[4326.14 --> 4327.02] whole self -[4327.02 --> 4327.74] to the -[4327.74 --> 4328.20] question -[4328.20 --> 4330.52] put your -[4330.52 --> 4331.34] entire being -[4331.34 --> 4331.96] into it -[4331.96 --> 4333.14] if you -[4333.14 --> 4333.32] have -[4333.32 --> 4333.88] questions -[4333.88 --> 4334.58] prayerfully -[4334.58 --> 4335.18] ask the -[4335.18 --> 4335.50] Lord -[4335.50 --> 4336.04] and then -[4336.04 --> 4337.14] indefatigably -[4337.14 --> 4338.06] search the -[4338.06 --> 4338.42] scriptures -[4338.42 --> 4340.56] don't settle -[4340.56 --> 4341.30] for easy -[4341.30 --> 4342.52] put your -[4342.52 --> 4343.08] whole self -[4343.08 --> 4343.66] into it -[4343.66 --> 4345.44] and if you -[4345.44 --> 4345.72] do -[4345.72 --> 4347.24] I am -[4347.24 --> 4347.82] confident -[4347.82 --> 4348.60] that the -[4348.60 --> 4348.98] Lord will -[4348.98 --> 4349.46] meet you -[4349.46 --> 4351.14] put your -[4351.14 --> 4351.76] whole self -[4351.76 --> 4352.40] into it -[4352.40 --> 4353.40] and see -[4353.40 --> 4354.18] what the -[4354.18 --> 4354.54] fullness -[4354.54 --> 4355.48] of God -[4355.48 --> 4356.24] will meet -[4356.24 --> 4356.72] you with -[4356.72 --> 4359.18] some of us -[4359.18 --> 4359.58] this morning -[4359.58 --> 4360.14] are standing -[4360.14 --> 4361.06] right on the -[4361.06 --> 4361.36] edge -[4361.36 --> 4361.96] of the -[4361.96 --> 4362.30] canyon -[4362.30 --> 4363.70] you know -[4363.70 --> 4364.34] the facts -[4364.34 --> 4365.18] you see -[4365.18 --> 4365.78] the bridge -[4365.78 --> 4366.38] and you're -[4366.38 --> 4366.70] trying to -[4366.70 --> 4366.94] get your -[4366.94 --> 4367.38] legs to -[4367.38 --> 4367.68] move -[4367.68 --> 4368.98] ask the -[4368.98 --> 4369.32] spirit -[4369.32 --> 4369.76] to help -[4369.76 --> 4370.48] you trust -[4370.48 --> 4372.54] some of us -[4372.54 --> 4373.36] are halfway -[4373.36 --> 4374.04] across -[4374.04 --> 4374.38] and our -[4374.38 --> 4374.70] knees -[4374.70 --> 4375.32] are shaking -[4375.32 --> 4376.08] ask the -[4376.08 --> 4376.36] spirit -[4376.36 --> 4377.02] to strengthen -[4377.02 --> 4377.38] you -[4377.38 --> 4380.30] some of us -[4380.30 --> 4380.64] are holding -[4380.64 --> 4381.18] a child -[4381.18 --> 4382.96] either physically -[4382.96 --> 4383.86] or spiritually -[4383.86 --> 4385.70] holding someone -[4385.70 --> 4386.16] who needs -[4386.16 --> 4386.52] to be -[4386.52 --> 4386.94] carried -[4386.94 --> 4388.58] we're -[4388.58 --> 4388.94] praying -[4388.94 --> 4389.48] for them -[4389.48 --> 4389.86] we're -[4389.86 --> 4390.36] pleading -[4390.36 --> 4390.72] with the -[4390.72 --> 4391.04] Lord -[4391.04 --> 4391.88] for them -[4391.88 --> 4393.40] know this -[4393.40 --> 4394.28] the spirit -[4394.28 --> 4394.74] carries -[4394.74 --> 4395.38] not just -[4395.38 --> 4396.00] individuals -[4396.00 --> 4397.32] but generations -[4397.32 --> 4399.40] so trust -[4399.40 --> 4399.70] him -[4399.70 --> 4401.12] trust -[4401.12 --> 4401.42] him -[4401.42 --> 4403.50] the gospel -[4403.50 --> 4404.06] is more -[4404.06 --> 4404.76] than true -[4404.76 --> 4406.00] it's solid -[4406.00 --> 4407.44] and the -[4407.44 --> 4408.08] spirit -[4408.08 --> 4409.06] makes it -[4409.06 --> 4409.42] sure -[4409.42 --> 4410.44] amen -[4410.44 --> 4412.08] let's pray -[4412.08 --> 4412.48] together -[4412.48 --> 4418.82] holy -[4418.82 --> 4418.84] holy -[4418.84 --> 4418.86] holy -[4418.86 --> 4418.88] holy -[4418.88 --> 4419.34] spirit -[4419.34 --> 4421.08] rain -[4421.08 --> 4421.80] down -[4421.80 --> 4424.30] holy -[4424.30 --> 4424.56] spirit -[4424.56 --> 4425.06] take what -[4425.06 --> 4425.30] we -[4425.30 --> 4426.04] know -[4426.04 --> 4426.38] to be -[4426.38 --> 4426.60] true -[4426.60 --> 4426.90] what we -[4426.90 --> 4427.40] long -[4427.40 --> 4427.94] to know -[4427.94 --> 4428.28] to be -[4428.28 --> 4428.60] true -[4428.60 --> 4429.16] take -[4429.16 --> 4429.48] what we -[4429.48 --> 4429.80] are -[4429.80 --> 4430.24] crying -[4430.24 --> 4430.54] out -[4430.54 --> 4430.86] for -[4430.86 --> 4431.24] to be -[4431.24 --> 4431.56] true -[4431.56 --> 4432.16] and real -[4432.16 --> 4432.46] in our -[4432.46 --> 4432.80] hearts -[4432.80 --> 4434.10] and make -[4434.10 --> 4434.50] it -[4434.50 --> 4435.18] sure -[4435.18 --> 4441.18] may we -[4441.18 --> 4441.62] step -[4441.62 --> 4442.80] from -[4442.80 --> 4443.38] reliability -[4443.38 --> 4444.76] to -[4444.76 --> 4445.36] trustworthy -[4445.36 --> 4448.32] from -[4448.32 --> 4448.88] certain -[4448.88 --> 4450.36] to secure -[4450.36 --> 4453.86] in this -[4453.86 --> 4454.36] moment -[4454.36 --> 4455.98] may we -[4455.98 --> 4456.44] hear your -[4456.44 --> 4456.94] voice -[4456.94 --> 4459.30] may we -[4459.30 --> 4459.86] know that -[4459.86 --> 4460.68] you are -[4460.68 --> 4461.70] speaking to -[4461.70 --> 4462.12] us -[4462.12 --> 4462.80] Lord -[4462.80 --> 4463.58] Jesus -[4463.58 --> 4465.46] and as we -[4465.46 --> 4465.96] come to -[4465.96 --> 4466.56] your table -[4466.56 --> 4468.40] I pray -[4468.40 --> 4468.64] that you -[4468.64 --> 4469.08] would take -[4469.08 --> 4469.70] the voice -[4469.70 --> 4470.74] spoken here -[4470.74 --> 4472.10] and transform -[4472.10 --> 4473.56] this grace -[4473.56 --> 4474.90] into the -[4474.90 --> 4475.58] grace that we -[4475.58 --> 4476.00] taste -[4476.00 --> 4476.84] and see -[4476.84 --> 4477.18] that we -[4477.18 --> 4477.88] receive in -[4477.88 --> 4478.32] the bread -[4478.32 --> 4478.90] and the -[4478.90 --> 4479.20] wine -[4479.20 --> 4482.24] that here -[4482.24 --> 4483.24] we might -[4483.24 --> 4484.48] receive in -[4484.48 --> 4484.88] the body -[4484.88 --> 4485.34] and blood -[4485.34 --> 4485.64] of our -[4485.64 --> 4486.10] Lord Jesus -[4486.10 --> 4486.88] your very -[4486.88 --> 4487.84] presence -[4487.84 --> 4489.10] among us -[4489.10 --> 4491.56] we pray -[4491.56 --> 4492.12] this Jesus -[4492.12 --> 4492.48] in your -[4492.48 --> 4493.36] most holy -[4493.36 --> 4493.92] name -[4493.92 --> 4495.18] amen -[4495.18 --> 4496.78] amen -[4496.78 --> 4502.74] as we -[4502.74 --> 4502.96] prayed -[4502.96 --> 4503.16] we're -[4503.16 --> 4503.44] going to -[4503.44 --> 4504.14] come to -[4504.14 --> 4504.56] the table -[4504.56 --> 4504.80] of the -[4504.80 --> 4505.02] Lord -[4505.02 --> 4505.32] now -[4505.32 --> 4505.58] and as -[4505.58 --> 4505.84] we do -[4505.84 --> 4506.10] there's -[4506.10 --> 4506.28] some -[4506.28 --> 4506.62] liturgy -[4506.62 --> 4506.88] that will -[4506.88 --> 4507.18] be on -[4507.18 --> 4507.56] screen -[4507.56 --> 4507.88] behind -[4507.88 --> 4508.12] us -[4508.12 --> 4508.24] I -[4508.24 --> 4508.54] encourage -[4508.54 --> 4508.70] you -[4508.70 --> 4508.90] to -[4508.90 --> 4509.66] speak -[4509.66 --> 4509.86] the -[4509.86 --> 4510.22] portions -[4510.22 --> 4510.52] that are -[4510.52 --> 4510.94] assigned -[4510.94 --> 4511.88] for you -[4511.88 --> 4512.06] and -[4512.06 --> 4512.50] indicated -[4512.50 --> 4512.82] there -[4512.82 --> 4514.36] church -[4514.36 --> 4514.66] family -[4514.66 --> 4515.06] lift -[4515.06 --> 4515.36] up -[4515.36 --> 4515.60] your -[4515.60 --> 4516.04] hearts -[4516.04 --> 4519.68] let us -[4519.68 --> 4520.22] give thanks -[4520.22 --> 4520.54] to the -[4520.54 --> 4520.98] Lord our -[4520.98 --> 4521.38] God -[4521.38 --> 4525.02] let's pray -[4525.02 --> 4525.40] together -[4525.40 --> 4527.66] with joy -[4527.66 --> 4528.60] we praise -[4528.60 --> 4528.96] you -[4528.96 --> 4529.48] gracious -[4529.48 --> 4530.04] God -[4530.04 --> 4530.94] for you -[4530.94 --> 4531.12] have -[4531.12 --> 4531.56] created -[4531.56 --> 4531.86] heaven -[4531.86 --> 4532.26] and earth -[4532.26 --> 4532.54] you have -[4532.54 --> 4533.04] made us -[4533.04 --> 4533.58] in your -[4533.58 --> 4533.86] image -[4533.86 --> 4534.14] you have -[4534.14 --> 4534.38] kept -[4534.38 --> 4534.78] covenant -[4534.78 --> 4535.32] with us -[4535.32 --> 4535.70] even -[4535.70 --> 4536.44] when we -[4536.44 --> 4536.72] fell -[4536.72 --> 4536.96] into -[4536.96 --> 4537.32] sin -[4537.32 --> 4538.66] we give -[4538.66 --> 4538.84] you -[4538.84 --> 4539.24] thanks -[4539.24 --> 4539.48] for -[4539.48 --> 4539.84] Jesus -[4539.84 --> 4540.36] Christ -[4540.36 --> 4540.98] who -[4540.98 --> 4541.62] by his -[4541.62 --> 4541.98] life -[4541.98 --> 4542.34] death -[4542.34 --> 4542.58] and -[4542.58 --> 4543.06] resurrection -[4543.06 --> 4543.70] opened -[4543.70 --> 4544.32] to us -[4544.32 --> 4545.20] the way -[4545.20 --> 4545.84] of life -[4545.84 --> 4546.52] everlasting -[4546.52 --> 4547.54] and we -[4547.54 --> 4547.84] give you -[4547.84 --> 4548.24] thanks -[4548.24 --> 4548.58] for your -[4548.58 --> 4548.84] Holy -[4548.84 --> 4549.20] Spirit -[4549.20 --> 4549.70] which now -[4549.70 --> 4550.38] unites -[4550.38 --> 4550.80] us -[4550.80 --> 4551.62] to him -[4551.62 --> 4553.18] in -[4553.18 --> 4553.54] Jesus -[4553.54 --> 4553.92] name -[4553.92 --> 4554.12] we -[4554.12 --> 4554.40] pray -[4554.40 --> 4555.54] amen -[4555.54 --> 4558.20] we -[4558.20 --> 4558.58] amen -[4558.58 --> 4559.44] our -[4559.44 --> 4559.58] Lord -[4559.58 --> 4559.98] Jesus -[4559.98 --> 4561.08] before -[4561.08 --> 4561.60] he -[4561.60 --> 4562.22] suffered -[4562.22 --> 4562.64] gave -[4562.64 --> 4563.00] us -[4563.00 --> 4563.30] this -[4563.30 --> 4563.92] memorial -[4563.92 --> 4564.68] of his -[4564.68 --> 4565.64] sacrifice -[4565.64 --> 4566.24] until -[4566.24 --> 4566.46] he -[4566.46 --> 4566.78] comes -[4566.78 --> 4567.18] again -[4567.18 --> 4568.50] the -[4568.50 --> 4568.72] Lord -[4568.72 --> 4569.10] Jesus -[4569.10 --> 4569.66] on the -[4569.66 --> 4569.88] night -[4569.88 --> 4570.04] that -[4570.04 --> 4570.14] he -[4570.14 --> 4570.34] was -[4570.34 --> 4570.82] betrayed -[4570.82 --> 4571.44] took -[4571.44 --> 4571.82] bread -[4571.82 --> 4576.14] and -[4576.14 --> 4576.26] when -[4576.26 --> 4576.34] he -[4576.34 --> 4576.68] broke -[4576.68 --> 4577.00] it -[4577.00 --> 4578.20] and -[4578.20 --> 4578.38] given -[4578.38 --> 4578.96] thanks -[4578.96 --> 4579.28] he -[4579.28 --> 4579.68] said -[4579.68 --> 4580.26] this -[4580.26 --> 4580.60] is -[4580.60 --> 4580.84] my -[4580.84 --> 4581.28] body -[4581.28 --> 4582.00] which -[4582.00 --> 4582.18] is -[4582.18 --> 4582.36] for -[4582.36 --> 4582.60] you -[4582.60 --> 4591.80] do this in remembrance of me. In the same way, he took the cup after supper saying, -[4592.28 --> 4595.30] this cup is the new covenant in my blood. -[4598.46 --> 4606.14] Do this whenever you drink it in remembrance of me. For whenever you eat this bread and drink -[4606.14 --> 4615.38] this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes again. This then is the mystery of our faith. -[4616.38 --> 4625.36] Your death, O Christ, we proclaim. Your resurrection we affirm with joy. Your coming we await with hope. -[4626.18 --> 4635.84] Glory be to you, Lord Jesus. Church family, the Lord has prepared his table for all who love him -[4635.84 --> 4642.98] and for all who trust in him alone for their salvation. And so come to this table, you who -[4642.98 --> 4649.40] have much faith and you who would like to have more. Come to this table, you who have been to this -[4649.40 --> 4655.16] sacrament often and you who have not been for a long time. Come to this table, you who have tried -[4655.16 --> 4664.22] to follow Jesus and who have failed. Come to this table because Jesus Christ is raised and the spirit -[4664.22 --> 4671.98] has come. Come to this table, whether you are here with us in person or joining us online, because it is -[4671.98 --> 4683.46] Christ who invites us to meet him here. These are the gifts of God for the people of God. Amen. -[4683.46 --> 4693.32] As we come to the table, this morning we are going to do that, gathering in groups, in a circle, joined -[4693.32 --> 4701.40] together around the table. And so we will have elders who will work as ushers, indicating when it's -[4701.40 --> 4707.64] time for your row to come up to the front. We encourage you to come up to the front and gather in a circle -[4707.64 --> 4713.66] together. And then we will pass the bread to our left or to our right. And as you pass the bread, -[4713.76 --> 4719.78] I invite you to say, the body of Christ given for you. And then we will pass the juice to our left or -[4719.78 --> 4725.24] to our right. And as you pass the juice, I will invite you to say, the blood of Christ shed for you. -[4726.04 --> 4730.44] If you are unable to come up to the front for whatever reason, please just indicate that to the -[4730.44 --> 4736.48] elder and they will serve you in your seat where you are. If you are coming up and you would like to -[4736.48 --> 4742.76] have gluten-free bread, please know that in the center of each tray is a cup of gluten-free bread. -[4743.20 --> 4747.96] And if you are celiac and don't want the risk of cross-contamination, we have a totally separate -[4747.96 --> 4754.78] container of bread up here for you as well. For our first table, I want to invite the -[4754.78 --> 4760.16] worship volunteers who will help us and sing with us, the prayer volunteers who will be available -[4760.16 --> 4764.94] while we are doing the supper. If you want to be prayed with or over celebration and lament, -[4764.94 --> 4770.72] there's people available for that. They'll be in the foyer and the elders as well who are going to -[4770.72 --> 4775.24] help us serve. Come to the front. They will serve our first table and then we will continue through. -[4794.94 --> 4797.76] Come right in, Megan. Close the circle. -[4803.52 --> 4809.22] Body of Christ given for you. Amen. Body of Christ given for you. -[4809.22 --> 4810.22] Amen. -[4810.22 --> 4811.22] Amen. -[4811.22 --> 4813.22] Amen. -[4813.22 --> 4814.22] Amen. -[4814.22 --> 4815.22] Amen. -[4815.22 --> 4817.22] Amen. -[4817.22 --> 4819.22] Amen. -[4819.22 --> 4821.22] Amen. -[4821.22 --> 4822.22] Amen. -[4822.22 --> 4823.22] Amen. -[4823.22 --> 4824.22] Amen. -[4824.22 --> 4824.28] Amen. -[4824.28 --> 4824.92] Amen. -[4824.94 --> 4854.92] Amen. -[4854.92 --> 4861.32] , enjoy it. -[4861.32 --> 4861.62] Damn. -[4861.62 --> 4861.92] Amen. -[4861.92 --> 4862.92] Amen. -[4862.92 --> 4863.74] Amen. -[4863.74 --> 4864.92] Amen. -[4864.92 --> 4866.32] Amen. -[4866.32 --> 4868.70] Amen. -[4868.70 --> 4869.80] Amen. -[4869.80 --> 4870.94] Amen. -[4870.94 --> 4872.24] Amen. -[4872.24 --> 4872.80] Amen. -[4872.80 --> 4874.96] Amen. -[4875.16 --> 4875.68] Amen. -[4875.68 --> 4876.20] Amen. -[4876.20 --> 4878.06] Amen. -[4878.06 --> 4879.08] Amen. -[4879.08 --> 4880.28] Amen. -[4880.34 --> 4880.52] Amen. -[4880.52 --> 4880.98] Amen. -[4881.16 --> 4882.08] Amen. -[4882.08 --> 4882.36] Just -[4882.36 --> 4883.98] Amen. -[4883.98 --> 4905.98] Drink and believe. -[4913.98 --> 4943.96] Drink and believe. -[4943.98 --> 4973.96] Drink and believe. -[4973.98 --> 5003.96] Drink and believe. -[5003.96 --> 5005.96] Drink and believe. -[5005.96 --> 5007.96] Drink and believe. -[5007.96 --> 5009.96] Drink and believe. -[5009.96 --> 5015.96] Drink and believe. -[5015.96 --> 5021.96] Drink and believe. -[5021.96 --> 5027.96] Drink and believe. -[5027.96 --> 5033.96] Drink and believe. -[5033.96 --> 5037.96] Drink and believe. -[5037.96 --> 5039.96] Drink and believe. -[5039.96 --> 5043.48] Come to the fountain -[5043.48 --> 5047.68] The heart of the freedom -[5047.68 --> 5051.58] And the pain of the sorrow -[5051.58 --> 5057.42] We watch our love -[5057.42 --> 5060.18] And the waves of His mercy -[5060.18 --> 5066.14] Nothing has happened to you -[5066.14 --> 5074.06] Praise the Holy Spirit, God -[5074.06 --> 5082.14] Holy Spirit, God -[5082.14 --> 5089.34] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[5089.34 --> 5096.12] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[5096.14 --> 5126.12] Come, Lord Jesus, come -[5126.12 --> 5142.46] Come to the cross -[5142.46 --> 5146.10] Mercy and grace -[5146.10 --> 5149.72] Come to the cross -[5149.72 --> 5154.04] Where you died in my place -[5154.04 --> 5157.64] God of my revenge -[5157.64 --> 5161.42] And into your strength -[5161.42 --> 5167.72] How we have come to the cross -[5167.72 --> 5171.72] Your arms are open -[5171.72 --> 5179.64] You follow me by the cross -[5179.64 --> 5187.56] You may not rise -[5187.56 --> 5189.56] You may not rise -[5189.56 --> 5199.48] Jesus, I come to the cross -[5199.48 --> 5201.48] Jesus, I come to the cross -[5201.48 --> 5207.48] Jesus, I come to the cross -[5207.48 --> 5209.48] Come to the cross -[5209.48 --> 5211.40] Come to the cross -[5211.40 --> 5213.40] Give me mercy and grace -[5213.40 --> 5217.40] I come to the cross -[5217.40 --> 5221.40] Where you died in my place -[5221.40 --> 5223.32] You may not rise in my place -[5223.32 --> 5227.32] You may not rise in my place -[5227.32 --> 5229.24] You may not rise in my place -[5229.24 --> 5233.24] You may not rise in my place -[5233.24 --> 5263.22] Jesus, I come to the cross -[5263.22 --> 5274.22] Jesus, I come, Jesus, I come to the throne. -[5293.22 --> 5295.22] Amen. -[5323.22 --> 5325.22] Amen. -[5353.22 --> 5355.22] Amen. -[5383.22 --> 5385.22] Amen. -[5413.22 --> 5415.22] Amen. -[5443.22 --> 5445.22] Amen. -[5473.22 --> 5475.22] Amen. -[5503.22 --> 5505.22] Amen. -[5533.22 --> 5535.22] Amen. -[5563.22 --> 5565.22] Amen. -[5593.22 --> 5595.22] Amen. -[5623.22 --> 5625.22] Amen. -[5653.22 --> 5655.22] Amen. -[5683.22 --> 5687.22] Amen. -[5713.22 --> 5714.22] Amen. -[5743.22 --> 5745.22] Amen. -[5773.22 --> 5775.22] Amen. -[5803.22 --> 5805.22] Amen. -[5833.22 --> 5834.22] Amen. -[5863.22 --> 5865.22] Amen. -[5893.22 --> 5895.22] Amen. -[5923.22 --> 5925.22] Amen. -[5953.22 --> 5955.22] Amen. -[5983.22 --> 5985.22] Amen. -[6013.22 --> 6015.22] Amen. -[6043.22 --> 6045.22] Amen. -[6073.22 --> 6075.22] Amen. -[6103.22 --> 6105.22] Amen. -[6133.22 --> 6135.22] Amen. -[6163.22 --> 6165.22] Amen. -[6165.22 --> 6166.22] Amen. -[6166.22 --> 6167.22] Amen. -[6167.22 --> 6169.22] Amen. -[6171.22 --> 6172.22] Amen. -[6172.22 --> 6196.90] As we go, know that we go with God, that he goes with us. -[6196.90 --> 6202.92] And so receive the blessing of God for the days and weeks, for the journey of life and faith ahead. -[6203.04 --> 6208.64] And go also with an invitation to stick around afterwards to celebrate with Andy and Rika. -[6209.10 --> 6216.66] I encourage you also to encourage and congratulate those who were ordained and installed in our service today. -[6216.94 --> 6218.80] Receive the blessing of God. -[6220.64 --> 6223.26] God, go before you to lead you. -[6223.62 --> 6225.84] God, go behind you to protect you. -[6225.84 --> 6228.42] God, go beneath you to support you. -[6228.72 --> 6231.60] And God, go beside you to befriend you. -[6232.24 --> 6234.26] Do not be afraid. -[6234.96 --> 6237.02] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[6237.16 --> 6243.72] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[6244.62 --> 6245.14] Amen. -[6255.84 --> 6269.52] There is also a few hours. -[6270.18 --> 6271.80] I walk to our back. -[6271.80 --> 6279.80] There's a place that will be shot -[6279.80 --> 6283.80] There's a glory of the night -[6283.80 --> 6289.80] There's a way that even though there is never -[6289.80 --> 6299.80] Touch of you, I love you -[6299.80 --> 6303.80] Because of your love -[6303.80 --> 6307.80] I love your love -[6307.80 --> 6309.80] No one is -[6309.80 --> 6311.80] No one's happiness -[6311.80 --> 6313.80] No one's suffering -[6313.80 --> 6317.80] No one's sin -[6317.80 --> 6319.80] No one's sin -[6319.80 --> 6321.80] No one's justice -[6321.80 --> 6323.80] No one's death -[6323.80 --> 6325.80] I love you -[6325.80 --> 6331.80] Because of you -[6331.80 --> 6335.80] Because of your love -[6335.80 --> 6339.80] Love your love -[6339.80 --> 6345.80] No one's sin -[6345.80 --> 6349.80] We will live forever -[6349.80 --> 6352.80] Now we have this hope -[6352.80 --> 6355.80] Because of you -[6355.80 --> 6371.80] Oh, I see you dance in vain. We will dance together in the city of my home because of you. -[6371.80 --> 6387.80] There is joy, there is a blessing, there is happiness, there is wine, there is joy, there is a blessing. -[6387.80 --> 6404.80] Because of you, because of you, because of your love, because of your love. -[6404.80 --> 6420.80] Oh, all of our sins are washed away. We've been there forever. Now we have His hope because of you. -[6420.80 --> 6436.80] Oh, I see you dance in vain. We will dance together in the city of my home because of you. -[6436.80 --> 6453.80] All our sins are washed away. We've been there forever. Now we have His hope because of you. -[6453.80 --> 6469.80] Oh, we'll see you face to face. We will dance together in the city of my home because of you. -[6469.80 --> 6471.80] Thank you. -[6472.80 --> 6482.80] Thank you. -[6484.30 --> 6486.80] lichkeit -[6486.80 --> 6488.80] You -[6488.80 --> 6518.78] Let's get started. -[6518.80 --> 6548.78] Let's get started. -[6548.80 --> 6550.80] Let's get started. -[6578.80 --> 6608.78] Let's get started. -[6608.80 --> 6638.78] Let's get started. -[6638.80 --> 6668.78] Let's get started. -[6668.80 --> 6698.78] Let's get started. -[6698.80 --> 6728.78] Let's get started. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, March 10, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, March 10, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f961ec6bc50db85f2245f7bc0c07a5f99d00e652..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, March 10, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,138 +0,0 @@ -• Call to worship from Psalm 47 -• Worship song with repetition of "Praise the Father", "Praise the Son" -• Account of Jesus' birth and sacrifice -• Gospel truth about salvation through Jesus Christ -• Praise for the King of kings, Lord of lords, and Emmanuel -• Prayer of confession led by speaker -• Repentance and confession of wrongdoings -• Reading from 1 Timothy 1 about Jesus Christ's forgiveness of sins -• Praise and worship of God, acknowledging His glory and sovereignty -• Recognition of God's greatness and uniqueness -• Commissioning the Mexico mission team and inviting them to share their work -• Mexico trip details -• Abilino's church growth and youth ministry work -• Plans for VBS program at Abilino's church -• Feeding kitchen and homeless shelter projects in Mexico -• Connecting with Jody and their house project and men's rehab -• New orphanage partnership and potential collaboration between Langley churches -• Discussion of a team's mission to Mexico -• Mention of connections among people from different churches in the area -• Commissioning and blessing of the team going to Mexico -• Reference to biblical examples of God sending people on important missions -• Prayer for the team, including support, protection, and encouragement -• Blessing of the church's partners in Mexico -• Discussion of children's worship time focusing on God's extravagant love -• Definition of "extravagant" and examples from Hank's experiences -• Transition to adult discussion of God's love for all people, including government officials -• Congregational prayer focusing on various topics such as: - • Nominations for office bearers - • Update on Rachel's health issues - • Prayers for healing, strength, and comfort for individuals dealing with illness, loss, or difficult situations - • Prayers for the church community and outreach efforts -• Prayers for the congregation's women who had a weekend away and their safe return -• Reflections on being a pastor and the opinions people have about the role -• Discussion of contentious topics such as government and authority -• Reference to last week's conversation on responsible citizenship -• Introduction to this week's topic: responsible government -• Reading and discussion of Romans 13, verses 1-7 -• Romans 13 is about the role of the state and living under its authority as citizens -• Responsible government understands order, which comes from God's created structure in society -• Governing authorities exist because of sin in the world and are responsible for punishing evil and restraining it -• The state is an aspect of God's common grace, ensuring justice and caring for the marginalized -• The existence of governing authorities is not solely due to the fall of humanity -• God has given humans a "cultural mandate" in Genesis 1 and 2 to develop cultures and explore the world -• This mandate includes patterning and ordering society to fulfill God's purposes -• Government functions would still exist apart from the fall, but might look different -• These governing authorities are established for human flourishing and well-being -• God has created mechanisms, including well-ordered societies, for humans to flourish in their purposes -• A libertarian impulse to eliminate all government denies its creational purpose -• Presumption of overreach vs dissolution -• Purpose of governing authorities is for the well-being of God's creation -• Responsibility and stewardship in governance -• Limitation of power and authority from God -• Interplay between different spheres of authority in life -• Understanding one's role in relationship to other authorities and institutions -• Authority and influence of institutions such as unions and regulatory bodies -• Balance between authority and accountability in governing bodies -• Scope and limits of authority in government -• Responsibility to exercise authority for God-given purposes -• Relationship between civil government, individual freedoms, and moral order -• Governments exist to maintain order and help limit the impact of evil on society. -• Responsible governments punish wrongdoing and hold wrongdoers accountable. -• The purpose of government is not just punitive, but also restorative, to foster human flourishing and mitigate things that work against it. -• Governments have a responsibility to deal with wrongdoing and wrongdoers to protect their citizens and maintain order. -• The government is given the authority to exercise punishment, including the death penalty -• The purpose of the government holding the sword (death penalty) is not for idle threats but to defend against evil and protect the common good -• Discussion of the politics and theology of the death penalty -• Concerns about racial and systemic biases in the current penal system making it difficult to discern the morality of the death penalty -• Relation to the concept of just war and whether Christians can participate in any form of warfare -• Discussion of just war theory and the protection of those who are weak -• The role of government in punishing evil and promoting good -• Responsible government's purpose in commending what is right -• Quotations from Scripture, including Romans 13:1-4 and a reference to the Belgian Confession -• The idea of inherent limits to a government's authority -• The concept of limited powers and the principle of limited governance -• Civil freedoms such as freedom of religion, assembly, speech, and discourse -• The relationship between governing authorities and their role in protecting civil liberties and serving the public good -• The concept of rulers holding no terror for people who do good and being free from the establishment if they act righteously -• Connection between church and governance -• Servant leadership concept from biblical roots -• Responsible governance vs authoritarian rule -• Jesus as a model for responsible government -• Power dynamics in government and society -• Authorities explicitly reject Jesus -• The importance of holding leaders to a high standard -• A Christian pastor in Iran arguing for submission to governing authorities as a form of resistance to evil -• The Bible verse Romans 13 and its interpretation by the Iranian pastor -• Expecting governments to be corrupt, but submitting to them as a form of "Christian subversion" -• Governance and political structure -• The state as an octopus stifling life vs occupying its own place among other entities -• Christian response to governing authority and politics -• Defining order and overcoming evil with good -• Role of governments in punishing evil, limiting sin's effects, and commending what is right -• Authorities as God's servants -• Different word used in verse 4 of a Greek text -• Meaning and usage of the word "liturgoi" -• Connection to the church word "liturgist" or "liturgy" -• Similarity with Paul's self-description as a minister in Romans 16:17 -• God using secular authorities as his hands and feet for peace, order, and justice -• Responsibility and accountability of those who wield influence and power -• Purpose of shared life as citizens and governments -• Being God's ministers, liturgists of mercy, grace, and justice -• Importance of sharing a living faith in society -• Difficulty of revealing God's order and structure to society -• Gratitude for times of coming together at God's word and table -• Prayer asking for nourishment by God's call and the spiritual presence of Jesus -• The speaker prays for the presence of God to fill their hearts and imaginations. -• The importance of taking truth seriously is mentioned. -• A comparison is made between liturgies in different spheres of life. -• The table is referred to as the Lord's table, and participants are encouraged to join together with Christians across generations. -• A prayer of thanks is given to God for creating heaven and earth, and for sending Jesus Christ to redeem humanity. -• Eucharist and its meaning -• The Lord's death and resurrection -• Faith and hope in Jesus' coming again -• The church as the body of Christ -• Table of God prepared for those who love and trust Him -• Inviting people to a table, possibly a religious gathering or ceremony -• Distinguishing between those who have been to the sacrament before and those who haven't -• Mention of Jesus Christ and his resurrection -• Invitation for all, including online attendees, to join in -• Description of the table as a place where gifts are given by God to His people -• Invitation to say the body of Christ given for you -• Sharing communion and blood of Christ -• Coming together as a family around the gospel -• First table service and invitation to those who are different -• Serving others, facilitating serving one another -• Worship volunteers and coming forward to serve -• Various "thank you" statements -• Praise and worship with repetitive phrases -• The crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ -• Salvation through Jesus' blood -• Redemption and forgiveness of sin -• Resurrection and victory over death -• Glory in the Redeemer and praise to God -• The speaker describes a future paradise where God is present and humanity flourishes. -• The importance of participating in seeing this vision come to life through involvement with the systems and spheres that God has granted us. -• A prayer is offered for protection, support, and friendship from God as one goes about their journey. -• Reassurance against fear, emphasizing instead going in peace to love and serve the Lord. -• The speaker offers repeated blessings and thanks. \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, March 10, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, March 10, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 9f5ff54a7f376f12596ba7a3bb22444b5dd0997a..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, March 10, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2683 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[209.98 --> 239.96] Thank you. -[239.98 --> 241.98] Thank you. -[269.98 --> 271.98] Thank you. -[299.98 --> 301.98] Thank you. -[329.98 --> 331.98] Thank you. -[359.98 --> 361.98] Thank you. -[369.98 --> 371.98] Thank you. -[371.98 --> 379.40] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 47, which sings, -[379.92 --> 382.40] Sing praises to God, sing praises. -[382.70 --> 385.82] Sing praises to our King, sing praises. -[385.92 --> 388.56] So let's sing praises to our King of Kings this morning. -[395.56 --> 398.92] In the darkness we were waiting, -[398.92 --> 401.92] Without hope and without light, -[403.20 --> 406.06] Till from heaven you came running, -[406.48 --> 409.92] There was mercy in your eyes, -[410.12 --> 413.26] To fulfill the law and prophets, -[413.66 --> 415.92] To a virgin kingdom heard, -[417.32 --> 420.22] From a throne of endless glory, -[420.68 --> 423.74] To a cradle in the dirt. -[428.92 --> 433.16] Praise the Father, -[433.88 --> 436.54] Praise the Son, -[437.38 --> 440.12] Praise the Spirit, -[440.92 --> 443.50] Three in one, -[444.34 --> 447.20] God of glory, -[447.92 --> 449.66] Majesty, -[451.30 --> 455.66] Praise forever to the King, -[455.66 --> 457.66] Of King. -[462.12 --> 465.66] To reveal the kingdom prime, -[466.04 --> 468.66] And to reconcile the lost, -[469.66 --> 471.66] To redeem the whole creation, -[473.00 --> 475.66] You do not despise the cross, -[476.72 --> 479.62] For even in your suffering, -[480.04 --> 483.08] You sought to the other side, -[483.08 --> 486.38] Knowing this was our salvation, -[486.38 --> 487.44] Jesus, -[487.68 --> 490.38] For our sake you died. -[495.28 --> 499.12] Praise the Father, -[499.64 --> 502.42] Praise the Son, -[503.24 --> 505.96] Praise the Spirit, -[506.70 --> 509.28] Three in one, -[509.28 --> 512.86] God of glory, -[513.56 --> 514.60] Majesty, -[515.14 --> 515.82] Praise the Son, -[515.82 --> 516.26] Praise the Son, -[516.26 --> 517.52] Praise the Son, -[517.52 --> 517.94] Praise the Son, -[517.94 --> 518.72] Praise the Son, -[518.72 --> 518.78] Praise the Son, -[518.78 --> 518.96] Praise the Son, -[518.96 --> 519.42] Praise the Son, -[519.42 --> 519.76] Praise the Son, -[519.76 --> 519.86] Praise the Son, -[519.86 --> 521.20] To the King, -[521.64 --> 522.90] A King. -[527.58 --> 531.18] And the morning that you rose, -[531.40 --> 534.72] All of heaven held its breath, -[535.14 --> 538.14] Till that stone was moved for good, -[538.14 --> 548.14] For the Lamb had conquered death, and the dead rose from their tombs, and the angels stood in awe. -[549.00 --> 561.96] For the souls of all who come to the Father are restored, and the church of Christ was born, and the spirit lived aflame. -[561.96 --> 575.64] Now this gospel truth of old shall not kneel, shall not faint. By His blood and in His name, in His freedom I am free. -[576.22 --> 582.64] For the love of Jesus Christ, who hath resurrected me. -[582.64 --> 601.64] Praise the Father, praise the Son, praise the Spirit, three in one. -[601.64 --> 616.06] God of glory, majesty, praise forever to the King of kings. -[616.06 --> 629.30] Praise the Father, praise the Son, praise the Spirit, three in one. -[629.30 --> 643.30] God of glory, majesty, praise the Son, praise the Son, praise the Son, praise the Son, and the Lord. -[643.30 --> 653.66] O Bill, King Jesus, O Bill, Emmanuel. -[653.66 --> 666.66] King of kings, Lord of lords, bright morning stars. -[668.66 --> 679.16] And throughout eternity, I'll sing your praises. -[679.16 --> 690.16] And I'll sing with you throughout eternity. -[692.16 --> 704.16] All hail King Jesus, all hail Emmanuel. -[704.16 --> 717.16] King of kings, Lord of lords, bright morning stars. -[717.16 --> 719.16] King of kings, all hail King of kings, all hail King of kings, all hail King of kings, all hail King of kings. -[719.16 --> 729.16] And throughout eternity, I'll sing your praises. -[729.16 --> 740.16] And I'll reign with you throughout eternity. -[740.16 --> 744.16] The Father, peace, all hail King of kings. -[744.16 --> 750.36] I'm going to lead you in a prayer of confession. -[750.36 --> 752.96] And at the end of that prayer, there will be time for a silent prayer as well. -[752.96 --> 754.90] So please bow your heads with me. -[755.56 --> 763.36] Living triune God, You have watched us with a love so deep, pursued us with a love so relentless, -[763.36 --> 766.90] and intervened in our lives with a love so vast -[766.90 --> 769.80] that we could hardly know its magnitude. -[770.98 --> 773.00] And yet, Lord, time and time again, -[773.08 --> 774.80] we have failed to love you in return. -[776.04 --> 777.48] God, you call us to seek you, -[777.60 --> 780.72] but instead we ignore you and turn to our own foolish ways. -[780.92 --> 782.76] You ask us to love our neighbors, -[782.90 --> 785.96] but we put up fences and walk away from those in need. -[785.96 --> 788.66] You ask us to think of others before ourselves, -[788.96 --> 792.48] but we remain distracted by our own lives. -[793.36 --> 795.84] Our own schedules, our own devices. -[797.46 --> 801.68] God of grace and mercy, we repent of all our wrongdoings to you, -[801.80 --> 804.98] and we offer our confessions to you in this time of silent prayer. -[823.36 --> 823.80] Amen. -[839.80 --> 845.88] We pray all of these things in the name of our loving and gracious Savior, Jesus Christ. -[846.26 --> 846.54] Amen. -[846.54 --> 854.28] We can be confident in the forgiveness of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. -[854.98 --> 856.62] From 1 Timothy 1 we read, -[857.66 --> 859.00] Here are words you may trust, -[859.70 --> 862.42] words that merit full acceptance. -[863.42 --> 865.96] Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. -[865.96 --> 870.64] To all who confess their sins and resolve to lead a new life, -[871.44 --> 872.04] He says, -[872.82 --> 874.28] Your sins are forgiven. -[875.28 --> 876.06] He also says, -[876.18 --> 876.68] Follow me. -[877.68 --> 880.58] Now to the one who rules all worlds, -[881.28 --> 882.76] immortal, invisible, -[883.40 --> 884.26] the only God, -[884.84 --> 887.92] be honor and glory forever and ever. -[887.92 --> 908.36] You are the Lord of this nation. -[908.36 --> 915.36] You are the Lord of this nation. -[915.36 --> 917.36] You are. -[918.68 --> 921.16] You are the light in this darkness. -[922.32 --> 924.06] You are the hope to the hopeless. -[925.44 --> 927.22] You are the peace to the restless. -[929.22 --> 930.64] You are. -[930.64 --> 960.62] You are the Lord of this nation. -[960.64 --> 963.86] The greater things have yet to come. -[964.08 --> 967.64] The greater things are still to be done here. -[971.64 --> 974.04] You are the Lord of creation. -[975.04 --> 977.66] The creator of all things. -[978.34 --> 980.64] You are the king above all things. -[981.94 --> 982.64] You are. -[984.32 --> 986.30] You are the strength and the weakness. -[987.62 --> 989.44] You are the love and the broken. -[989.44 --> 992.88] You are the joyous sadness. -[992.88 --> 994.88] You are. -[994.88 --> 995.88] You are. -[997.88 --> 1002.84] There is no one like our God. -[1003.84 --> 1008.44] There is no one like our God. -[1008.44 --> 1015.44] The greater things have yet to come. -[1015.44 --> 1020.44] The greater things are still to be done in this city. -[1020.44 --> 1032.44] The greater things are still to be done in this city. -[1032.44 --> 1044.18] The greater things have yet to come. -[1044.18 --> 1052.22] Greater things have never come -[1052.22 --> 1056.36] Greater things are still to be done here -[1056.36 --> 1066.30] There is no one like our God -[1066.30 --> 1072.40] There is no one like our God -[1072.40 --> 1078.56] There is no one like you God -[1078.56 --> 1085.74] There is no one like you God -[1085.74 --> 1091.54] Greater things have yet to come -[1091.54 --> 1094.68] Greater things are still to be done here -[1094.68 --> 1098.68] There is no one like you God -[1098.68 --> 1101.44] Greater things have yet to come -[1101.44 --> 1107.60] Greater things are still to be done here -[1107.60 --> 1115.12] Greater things have yet to come -[1115.12 --> 1118.60] Greater things are still to be done here -[1118.60 --> 1126.94] Greater things have yet to come -[1126.94 --> 1133.10] Greater things are still to be done here -[1133.10 --> 1137.26] Greater things are still to do here -[1137.26 --> 1139.60] Even to renew our awareness -[1139.60 --> 1141.26] Greater clothes and segura -[1141.26 --> 1141.84] Greater things have yet to come -[1141.84 --> 1142.96] Greater things have yet to come -[1142.96 --> 1144.92] Greater things are still to come -[1144.92 --> 1145.64] Greater things are still to but -[1145.64 --> 1147.54] Greater things have yet to come -[1147.54 --> 1148.76] professors are still to come -[1148.76 --> 1150.12] ël so much of t duty can exercise -[1150.12 --> 1174.90] Before the throne of God above, I am a strong and perfect King, -[1174.90 --> 1183.90] A great high priest whose name is God, Whoever lives at peace for me. -[1185.00 --> 1194.34] My name is graven on His hands, My name is written on His heart, -[1194.62 --> 1203.74] I know that while in heaven He stands, No tongue can give me less deep heart, -[1203.74 --> 1208.74] No tongue can give me less deep heart. -[1215.22 --> 1224.74] When Satan tempts me to despair, And tells me of the guilt within, -[1224.74 --> 1233.74] Upward I look and see Him there, Who made an end of all my sin. -[1234.88 --> 1243.74] Because the sinless Savior died, My sinful soul is now to free, -[1243.74 --> 1252.74] For God the justice satisfied, To look on Him and pardon me, -[1252.74 --> 1256.74] To look on Him and pardon me. -[1256.74 --> 1274.74] He holds Him there, The risen Lamb, My purpose, Father's righteousness, -[1274.74 --> 1284.74] The plain unchangeable I am, The King of glory and of grace. -[1284.74 --> 1294.74] One with Himself I cannot die, My soul is purchased by His blood, -[1294.74 --> 1299.74] My life is hid with Christ on high, My life is hid with Christ on high, -[1299.74 --> 1309.74] With Christ my Savior and my God, With Christ my Savior and my God. -[1309.74 --> 1334.74] With Christ my Savior and my God, With Christ my Savior and my God. -[1334.74 --> 1363.74] For before we move to the offering, We're going to take some time together to hear from the Mexico mission team, -[1363.74 --> 1367.74] And to commission them in the work that God has called them to do. -[1367.74 --> 1370.74] And so, to begin, I'm going to invite Brandon to come to the front, -[1370.74 --> 1375.74] And he's going to share just a quick overview of the kinds of things that they will be doing, -[1375.74 --> 1378.74] And our ministry partners down there. -[1390.74 --> 1391.74] Just keep talking. -[1393.74 --> 1407.74] Switching to red, there you go. -[1407.74 --> 1409.74] I think, right? -[1409.74 --> 1410.74] Yep. -[1410.74 --> 1413.74] This actually works great because I was going to do the offering too. -[1413.74 --> 1415.74] So the offering is the same thing as what I'm going to talk about now. -[1415.74 --> 1416.74] So we'll just do one little one. -[1416.74 --> 1418.74] But yeah. -[1418.74 --> 1421.74] So Mexico trip this year, there is a T-Bus 7-Bus going down. -[1421.74 --> 1428.74] It is quite a bit smaller than normal, but it's a cool, it's kind of like today where most of the women are gone. -[1428.74 --> 1432.74] This trip is basically all dominated by men besides MJ. -[1432.74 --> 1434.74] So it's a real cool trip that way. -[1434.74 --> 1437.74] It's a different dynamic, having all guys on the trip. -[1437.74 --> 1440.74] Probably be a little bit smellier and all that too, but it'll be fun. -[1440.74 --> 1447.74] So this year, our predominant kind of stuff that's going to be going on, we have kind of, I guess, three areas. -[1447.74 --> 1449.74] Abilinos will be going back to again, of course, as well. -[1449.74 --> 1452.74] You guys, I think most of you know them. -[1452.74 --> 1467.74] So with them, we're going to be working on their youth ministry, strengthening that, just kind of trying to make a long term goal is always not a little goal, but a process been trying to make their youth program similar to ours is they, they really see a lot of value in how ours works. -[1467.74 --> 1470.74] In terms of our 2020 small groups, things like that. -[1470.74 --> 1475.74] And we're just kind of training them and their youth leaders and their youth in terms of how that works. -[1475.74 --> 1478.74] So that will be ongoing again as well. -[1478.74 --> 1482.74] And then we have their VBS program, which is their young kids. -[1482.74 --> 1486.74] May sound silly, but a lot of their little kids are actually the way they grow their church. -[1486.74 --> 1488.74] So we minister to them. -[1488.74 --> 1490.74] They'll have a hundred kids come out in a day. -[1490.74 --> 1494.74] We'll do crafts, Bible lessons, games, different fun stuff with them. -[1494.74 --> 1501.74] But Abilino, the way the Mexican culture kind of works is kids under the age of like 10 or so don't have rules. -[1501.74 --> 1505.74] They can do whatever they want, which means these kids often come to church alone. -[1505.74 --> 1509.74] Their parents aren't believers or they don't want to go to church, whatever it is. -[1509.74 --> 1512.74] But their kids are allowed to and their kids, their friends are at church. -[1512.74 --> 1513.74] It's fun at church. -[1513.74 --> 1514.74] So they all go to church. -[1514.74 --> 1519.74] So that's how Abilino grows it because he gets the children kind of hooked on God. -[1519.74 --> 1521.74] They really actually do become true believers. -[1521.74 --> 1523.74] They understand what it is. -[1523.74 --> 1526.74] And then their older siblings start coming and then their parents eventually start coming. -[1526.74 --> 1530.74] So that's been his overall plan of how he grows his church. -[1530.74 --> 1533.74] And you can see the results because the church started with like six people. -[1533.74 --> 1540.74] And I think to this date now it's a hundred and something members, adult members professing just through that system. -[1540.74 --> 1541.74] So we'll be helping with that. -[1541.74 --> 1543.74] And then they also have a feeding kitchen that we'll be helping with. -[1543.74 --> 1545.74] They feed the community. -[1545.74 --> 1551.74] Anybody can come for food if they're on hard times, whatnot, and they'll feed them seven days a week. -[1551.74 --> 1553.74] Kind of very similar to night shift. -[1553.74 --> 1554.74] Except for just take it. It's not dinner. -[1554.74 --> 1556.74] It's lunchtime is what they do. -[1556.74 --> 1558.74] So that's Abilino's. -[1558.74 --> 1564.74] We may be doing some septic tank things and stuff like that because we are planning on doing a homeless shelter for them over the next five years. -[1564.74 --> 1567.74] But a lot of that depends on who's available and things like that. -[1567.74 --> 1569.74] We won't be actually doing the work per se. -[1569.74 --> 1572.74] It's just more overseeing excavators and things like that and stuff like that. -[1572.74 --> 1573.74] So that's Abilino. -[1573.74 --> 1575.74] Then we'll be connecting, of course, with Jody. -[1575.74 --> 1580.74] Jody this year has a couple projects for us in terms of they have a new house that they're almost finished. -[1580.74 --> 1581.74] Not quite finished. -[1581.74 --> 1582.74] Need a bit of manpower. -[1582.74 --> 1583.74] So we'll be helping them with that. -[1583.74 --> 1593.74] And then they have their men's rehab as well, which we visit every year and kind of just share stories and have a good time with our brothers in Christ that way. -[1593.74 --> 1596.74] The third one is a new one that we're hoping works out this year. -[1596.74 --> 1599.74] We're going to be connecting with an orphanage down there. -[1599.74 --> 1604.74] The orphanage is actually ran by a coalition of churches here in Langley. -[1604.74 --> 1614.74] So we are going to be trying to join up with those guys and basically just trying to we have a whole lot of churches in Langley that work in Rosarito and Tijuana that kind of don't work together right now. -[1614.74 --> 1617.74] And the idea is we're all going to start working together slightly. -[1617.74 --> 1623.74] Of course, we'll all maybe have our own focuses and our own passions, but we're going to try to help each other out. -[1623.74 --> 1625.74] So we'll help with their orphanage. -[1625.74 --> 1628.74] They have help with Albalino's homeless shelter, for example, things like that. -[1628.74 --> 1630.74] We're just going to try to work together more. -[1630.74 --> 1638.74] So it's just a more coordinated and kind of universal, I guess, church effort in Mexico by the churches in Langley. -[1638.74 --> 1642.74] So those are not the CRC churches specifically. -[1642.74 --> 1644.74] It's a multidenominational kind of group. -[1644.74 --> 1651.74] It's just a bunch of us that actually honestly worked on a construction site together and all realize we all work in the same area and are all different churches. -[1651.74 --> 1657.74] So that's what we'll be kind of connecting with in the three big kind of key items of this year. -[1657.74 --> 1662.74] And then, of course, it's Mexico and God has huge plans for Mexico and everything changes and we'll probably do a lot more cooler stuff. -[1662.74 --> 1664.74] So that's just the way it goes. -[1664.74 --> 1665.74] But yeah. -[1665.74 --> 1666.74] Yeah. -[1666.74 --> 1669.74] Thanks, Brandon. -[1669.74 --> 1686.74] Can we get the team who is going or at least those who are here this morning, can you guys come on up to the front? -[1686.74 --> 1694.74] So as you see this group, I encourage you today to maybe grab one of them after service -[1694.74 --> 1698.74] or reach out this week and ask what it is that you can pray for particular. -[1698.74 --> 1706.74] But I do encourage all of you over the time that they are gone, they leave next Saturday to pray for them and remember them in your prayers. -[1706.74 --> 1713.74] As they go and as they stand before us, we're going to commission them with a prayer and a bit of a liturgy. -[1713.74 --> 1718.74] And so I invite you to join your hearts with mine as we send them out in this way. -[1718.74 --> 1724.74] God has always been sending people on important missions. -[1724.74 --> 1728.74] He sent Abraham to a strange land with promises of a bright future. -[1728.74 --> 1732.74] He sent Moses to Pharaoh and to free the oppressed. -[1732.74 --> 1736.74] He sent Samuel to anoint the unexpected David as king. -[1736.74 --> 1742.74] And even when Jonah ran away from God sending, God sent him to preach repentance. -[1742.74 --> 1747.74] And then God sent his son, Jesus, to redeem us all. -[1747.74 --> 1752.74] And Jesus didn't stop there because he sends us to. -[1752.74 --> 1757.74] He sends us as messengers to share his message of love and forgiveness. -[1757.74 --> 1769.74] And he promised that when he sends us out that we wouldn't be alone, that he sends his spirit to be with us, whether we're close to home or traveling far. -[1769.74 --> 1774.74] Today, we celebrate your being called and blessed by God. -[1774.74 --> 1781.74] He blesses us with salvation and then blesses us again by letting us spread the good news of the gospel. -[1781.74 --> 1786.74] And through us, he showers blessings on the whole world. -[1786.74 --> 1792.74] And so, as a team, you are commissioned to continue this mission. -[1792.74 --> 1803.74] You are sent out with the gospel to make disciples everywhere, to help those in need and to spread the assurance of forgiveness and new life available through Christ. -[1803.74 --> 1815.74] To those of you standing here heading to Tijuana and Rosarito, Mexico, for this mission, go with the gospel and in the power of the Holy Spirit. -[1815.74 --> 1817.74] May God bless your efforts. -[1817.74 --> 1820.74] May he bless the relationships that you develop and foster. -[1820.74 --> 1824.74] And may you see the fruits of your labor. -[1824.74 --> 1830.74] I'm going to invite those of you who are family or elders in the church to come on up. -[1830.74 --> 1833.74] We're going to lay hands on them and surround them. -[1833.74 --> 1840.74] The laying on of hands is a picture for us of the Holy Spirit flowing through the church into them as they go. -[1840.74 --> 1843.74] And so, a group up here, I'm going to invite you just to move to the center. -[1843.74 --> 1848.74] And then, whoever would like to come forward and lay on hands, I encourage you to do that. -[1848.74 --> 1874.74] If you are not able to come forward, but would like to, you may hold your hand out as a picture of this same thing. -[1874.74 --> 1879.74] And this is an image that even though we send a small group, it is the whole church that goes with them. -[1879.74 --> 1885.74] It is the whole family of God that supports you and remembers you on your journey, faith, and mission. -[1885.74 --> 1891.74] And so, receive this blessing from God. -[1891.74 --> 1902.74] Holy God, as these people prepare to go, may you go before them to prepare a way for them. -[1902.74 --> 1915.74] As this team prepares to go, may you go behind them to protect them from the attacks of the devil and the presence of sin. -[1915.74 --> 1928.74] As each one prepares their heart and mind to go to Rosarito and to Tijuana, we pray, Lord God, that you would go beneath them to support them and to bolster them, to speak words of encouragement and hope to their hearts, -[1928.74 --> 1939.74] even as they face the challenges of the day, whether it's hot weather, hard conversations, language barriers, or work that is new to our experience. -[1939.74 --> 1947.74] And as each on this team prepare to go, may you, Lord God, go beside them to befriend them. -[1947.74 --> 1950.74] May they know your nearness. -[1950.74 --> 1958.74] And may the love that they have and are cultivating for you overflow out of them to all whom they meet. -[1958.74 --> 1978.74] And God, even as we pray for these people going from our church, we pray for the church in Mexico, we pray for our partners there, for Jody and for Uriel and for Abilino and for Erica and for everyone whom they will work with, the translators, the friends, the connections. -[1978.74 --> 1984.74] We pray, Lord God, hold them and keep them. -[1984.74 --> 1992.74] We pray, Lord God, that you would bless them, that you would make your face to shine upon them and that you would be gracious to them. -[1992.74 --> 1997.74] Lord our God, turn your face toward them and give them your peace. -[1997.74 --> 2000.74] And all God's people said, Amen. -[2000.74 --> 2028.74] Amen. -[2028.74 --> 2033.58] conversations together about what they did. And so I invite you to keep your eyes and ears out -[2033.58 --> 2039.10] for that opportunity to hear more from them as well. May the Lord bless you as you give in worship. -[2058.74 --> 2060.74] Amen. -[2088.74 --> 2090.74] Amen. -[2118.74 --> 2120.74] Amen. -[2148.74 --> 2150.74] Amen. -[2178.74 --> 2180.74] Amen. -[2208.74 --> 2210.74] Amen. -[2238.74 --> 2240.74] Amen. -[2268.74 --> 2270.74] Amen. -[2270.74 --> 2272.74] Amen. -[2280.78 --> 2288.90] All right. All of the kids can come forward right now and join me up at the front with my -[2288.90 --> 2298.30] friend. It's not just a puppet. It's Hank the Hound. I'm not just a puppet. I'm your friend -[2298.30 --> 2307.34] Hank. Well, I am a puppet. I'm not just a puppet. Come on up, come on up, everyone. Come on up, -[2307.44 --> 2312.10] everyone. So guess what we're going to talk about today in children's worship time? What? -[2313.02 --> 2321.62] We're going to talk about God's extravagant love. Ooh. Who can tell me what extravagant means? -[2322.58 --> 2329.52] I can. I can. Just one second. Malachi? Yeah, it's kind of like extreme. Does anybody... Hank, -[2329.58 --> 2335.06] do you have stories about something extravagant or extreme you did? Yeah. I even prepared a -[2335.06 --> 2339.66] PowerPoint. You did? How did you know we were talking about it? I just had a hunch. All right, -[2339.70 --> 2345.76] well, let's take a peek. What did you do, Hank? I went to a bunch of waterfalls. I feel like we've -[2345.76 --> 2351.46] seen this before, Hank. I went to Bridal Falls first, and then I went to Niagara Falls. Hank, -[2351.46 --> 2356.92] we've definitely done this shtick before. After that, we went south to Yosemite. I think it's -[2356.92 --> 2362.34] Yosemite, Hank. And I was right at the very top there. See? That's me at the top. Do you see me? -[2363.12 --> 2367.76] After that... We've done this for sure before, Hank. We're just repeating something, aren't we? -[2368.04 --> 2375.48] After that, I went to Iceland and saw that cool waterfall, and then I went down into Victoria Falls -[2375.48 --> 2383.54] in Zambia. And finally, the last one in Venezuela. We have definitely done this before, Hank. We've -[2383.54 --> 2388.46] definitely done this before. All right, well, we're going to go to the room, and we're going to talk -[2388.46 --> 2393.54] about extravagant things, okay? Yeah! You're going to stay here, though, okay, Hank? Mm-hmm. And the -[2393.54 --> 2400.20] grown-ups are going to hear about how God's love is for all people, even the government. -[2400.20 --> 2406.30] What? Of course the government! Thank you! So we're going to go and talk about that, but let's -[2406.30 --> 2410.38] pray before we go, okay? Let's pray. Dear God, thank you so much for this day. Thank you that we -[2410.38 --> 2415.40] could be in church, and that we could hear more about how it is that you love us so much. And we -[2415.40 --> 2419.14] pray that as we go to children's worship time and the adults stay here, that you'll teach us all a -[2419.14 --> 2423.88] little bit more about what that means. We pray this in your name. Amen. All right, kids, let's stand and do -[2423.88 --> 2430.16] the blessing. All right, we're going to say the Lord be with you together. Are -[2430.16 --> 2434.34] you ready? The Lord be with you. -[2460.16 --> 2469.64] Before we come in congregational prayer, I just have one or two notes. Council is -[2469.64 --> 2474.56] seeking nominations for office bearers. They're looking for positions of admin, -[2474.56 --> 2482.42] elder, pastoral elder, and deacons. Nominations will run from March 10 to April 7. Nomination forms -[2482.42 --> 2492.18] are available in the e-bulletin or from the office. I also would like to give an update. -[2492.18 --> 2497.08] Many of you know Matthew and Rachel, who are members of a congregation for many years. -[2497.08 --> 2503.16] Rachel has been dealing with health issues, and she has continued to decline for the last seven years. -[2503.16 --> 2515.64] The latest update is that she is likely having stiff person syndrome. This means she's unable to do anything physical. -[2515.64 --> 2522.48] We pray for strength for her and Matthew as he has to manage her care and needs as well as run the household. -[2522.48 --> 2541.76] Shall we come to our Lord in prayer? We praise you God, Lord of the universe. You created the world we live in, the changing seasons, the beauty we see around us, rain, sunshine, plants springing up, plants budding. -[2541.76 --> 2550.52] You created us to give you praise. We do that now together as we stand in your presence. -[2550.52 --> 2557.96] We're thankful for the freedom to worship where so many around the world do not have this opportunity. -[2557.96 --> 2568.84] We pray that many more people will come to see the need to worship you rather than spend time elsewhere pursuing worldly things that distract. -[2568.84 --> 2579.52] We pray for those who deal with illness each day. Some for healing, physical ailments, some for mental, some both at the same time. -[2579.52 --> 2590.40] We pray for Ellen White who is recovering from hip surgery and is in rehab. We pray that rehab may be effective for her, that she can become mobile again. -[2590.40 --> 2598.82] We pray for Rachel, Skipper, and Matthew and their long-term needs, for pain management, for strength for each day. -[2598.82 --> 2605.50] May your presence be felt in this trying time. May Matthew be strengthened in his difficult journey. -[2605.50 --> 2619.62] We also pray for Kobe DePorsap who is suffering from leukemia as a young mother. We pray for healing, for strength for her and her family. -[2619.62 --> 2631.30] We continue to pray for members of this who have lost loved ones. Comfort those whose pain and loss is great, sometimes overwhelming. -[2631.30 --> 2643.62] Most recently, Greta Visser has lost her sister, who passed away in this last bit. We pray for strength for her as she has to deal with the loss of her own husband recently and now a sister. -[2643.62 --> 2652.30] We pray for a blessing for her and strength as she navigates life without loved ones. -[2652.30 --> 2662.30] We pray for family relationships that have broken down. We pray for healing and restoration to those who are living a difficult life. -[2662.30 --> 2667.48] We pray for healing and healing. We pray for healing and healing. We pray for our church community as it seeks to reach out with your word. -[2668.48 --> 2671.64] In various ways, such as gems, cadets, coffee break. -[2672.60 --> 2675.82] Within our own walls and also those outside of our membership. -[2676.56 --> 2682.96] With efforts such as the Mexico mission trip, night shift, meal programs, and Gateway of Hope. -[2682.96 --> 2684.96] Lord, we pray for healing and healing. -[2684.96 --> 2685.30] Lord, we pray for healing and healing. -[2685.30 --> 2688.54] Lord, we have prayed for the team going down to Mexico this week. -[2689.36 --> 2694.42] And we pray that your spirit may be able to surround them with protection. -[2695.08 --> 2697.44] May they be effective witnesses for you. -[2698.54 --> 2701.98] We are thankful for the support given to send this team down. -[2703.88 --> 2709.48] We pray for the preaching of your word, Lord, that we may hear and take to heart what is said. -[2709.48 --> 2713.32] Lord, we pray that this will strengthen us in our walk this week. -[2714.06 --> 2718.56] That we may be good witnesses for you in this world around us. -[2720.18 --> 2731.48] Lord, we pray for the many women of our congregation who have had a weekend away to be strengthened in their walks of life. -[2732.20 --> 2734.48] Pray for safety as they return again to us. -[2734.48 --> 2740.76] We pray all this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. -[2741.50 --> 2745.60] We pray this in humbleness, aware of our sinfulness and shortcomings. -[2746.54 --> 2746.88] Amen. -[2746.88 --> 2747.04] Amen. -[2764.48 --> 2765.48] Amen. -[2765.48 --> 2766.48] Amen. -[2769.12 --> 2776.64] I have had the privilege of being a pastor in full-time ministry for almost 14 years. -[2777.76 --> 2786.20] And one of the things I have learned in those 14 years is that a particular joy of being a pastor -[2786.20 --> 2795.38] is that everybody who you pastor has an opinion on what it means to be a pastor. -[2796.76 --> 2800.18] Because everybody has an idea of how you're supposed to do your job. -[2800.74 --> 2804.48] About what it is that you're supposed to focus your time on and your efforts in. -[2804.84 --> 2809.28] And about how they can add things to that job description and the like. -[2809.34 --> 2813.62] And take things away from what you think is important in that job description and the like. -[2813.62 --> 2820.92] In 100 to 250 to 350, 1,350. -[2822.02 --> 2826.62] Not just bosses, but micromanaging opinionated bosses. -[2829.60 --> 2831.84] Now, that's none of you, right? -[2832.52 --> 2833.74] This church is amazing. -[2834.34 --> 2836.00] And actually, I do genuinely mean that. -[2836.00 --> 2845.10] That has been less of my experience here as we understand our shared ministry life together well. -[2845.90 --> 2854.72] But my point there is that there are few kinds of jobs wherein everyone has the definitive opinion -[2854.72 --> 2856.58] on what it's supposed to be like. -[2857.66 --> 2858.90] Pastors are one of them. -[2859.66 --> 2862.14] Maybe teachers are another one, right? -[2862.14 --> 2865.18] Parents tell you, it's your job to do this. -[2865.94 --> 2868.12] You go, well, maybe that's your job, mom. -[2871.12 --> 2874.48] Another one of those jobs is politicians. -[2875.74 --> 2878.30] Because we elect them, at least in North America. -[2878.80 --> 2881.58] We elect them so we get to tell them what to do. -[2881.90 --> 2885.56] And we get to determine where they've fallen short of what they do. -[2885.56 --> 2893.74] This morning, we are continuing a conversation that started last week looking at Romans 13, -[2894.12 --> 2898.66] which is all about the government, all about established authorities, -[2899.34 --> 2903.30] the source of them, and our relationship to them. -[2904.20 --> 2908.00] Last week, we began looking at responsible citizenship. -[2908.50 --> 2911.02] This week, we're going to look at responsible government. -[2911.02 --> 2917.02] Now, I mentioned last week that these are contentious topics, -[2917.28 --> 2922.04] and I've got to tell you, the kinds of conversations I had after church and throughout the week -[2922.04 --> 2928.42] and the kinds of feedback that I got indicate to me that these are things you have opinions on. -[2929.38 --> 2930.86] No one's surprised by that. -[2932.34 --> 2934.92] You're probably going to have some more opinions today. -[2935.78 --> 2936.76] Now, let me be clear. -[2936.86 --> 2939.20] I'm happy to hear those and to feed those. -[2939.20 --> 2941.36] But if you think I missed something, -[2942.06 --> 2945.30] first question is going to be, did you miss last week? -[2946.68 --> 2946.88] Right? -[2946.94 --> 2949.92] Because I want you to make sure that you hear what we said last week. -[2950.00 --> 2951.74] And then also, my second question is going to be, -[2952.02 --> 2955.36] hey, maybe did you check out our podcast because we talked about it -[2955.36 --> 2957.54] and maybe we picked up on some of those things there? -[2957.88 --> 2965.02] Point is, this is the start of what I hope is for you an ongoing and continued conversation. -[2965.02 --> 2971.42] And I know there's been some really interesting conversations that have happened as a result of this work together. -[2972.38 --> 2978.62] And so to begin, we're going to read Romans 13, 1 to 7 again, which is what we read last week. -[2978.62 --> 2991.42] And this week, as we go through, I encourage you to look for and anticipate what it is that we might have to hear from God about responsible government. -[2992.22 --> 2995.32] And so if you have a Bible, I encourage you to open that up. -[2995.98 --> 2996.86] We'll refer back. -[2996.92 --> 2998.42] If it's on a device, turn it on. -[2998.64 --> 3000.16] I get to Romans 13. -[3000.70 --> 3003.64] The first time through, we'll be on the screen over my shoulder. -[3004.44 --> 3005.30] Let's read together. -[3005.30 --> 3015.14] Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. -[3016.06 --> 3019.24] The authorities that exist have been established by God. -[3020.28 --> 3025.82] Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted. -[3026.58 --> 3029.84] And those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. -[3030.42 --> 3035.06] For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. -[3035.30 --> 3039.28] Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? -[3039.58 --> 3042.30] Then do what is right, and you will be commended. -[3043.10 --> 3046.90] For the one in authority is God's servant for your good. -[3048.06 --> 3050.60] But if you do wrong, be afraid. -[3051.14 --> 3054.00] For rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. -[3054.76 --> 3060.04] They are God's servants against agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. -[3060.04 --> 3069.68] Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment, but also as a matter of conscience. -[3070.68 --> 3077.34] This is why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants who give their full time to governing. -[3078.62 --> 3081.00] Give to everyone what you owe them. -[3081.00 --> 3083.28] If you owe taxes, pay taxes. -[3083.48 --> 3084.60] If revenue, then revenue. -[3084.88 --> 3086.38] If respect, then respect. -[3086.54 --> 3088.44] If honor, then honor. -[3089.10 --> 3090.10] This is the word of the Lord. -[3090.10 --> 3099.08] So, as I mentioned, this is part two of what we began last week. -[3099.72 --> 3112.70] Romans 13 is about the purpose and the role of the state and how we are to live under and in that authority as citizens. -[3112.70 --> 3116.72] In part one, we looked at responsible citizenship. -[3117.32 --> 3119.78] Today, we'll look at responsible government. -[3120.76 --> 3129.64] Now, last week, we looked at four points that came out of that, and I will quickly recap that for us as a reminder, as a refresher, -[3129.74 --> 3133.94] because there is parallels, of course, to today, and I want you to see that parallel. -[3133.94 --> 3142.66] Well, responsible citizens understand that there is order to the structure of society that God has created, -[3142.76 --> 3151.16] that God has built this order into creation, and that order includes governing authorities. -[3152.70 --> 3153.82] We'll revisit that in a moment. -[3153.82 --> 3158.88] And then, out of that, we said that responsible citizens do what is good, -[3160.12 --> 3162.68] and that we do what is good for goodness' sake. -[3162.68 --> 3167.38] That is not just because we fear punishment, but also as a matter of conscience. -[3168.30 --> 3177.10] And then, lastly, the fourth point that we made last time was that our doing good looks like giving equitably as is due. -[3177.74 --> 3180.30] Now, I said it already, but if you missed that, it's available online, -[3180.82 --> 3184.34] and our podcast, Welcome to the Narthex, discussed that more deeply. -[3184.70 --> 3190.18] This week, we're going to flip that coin and look at responsible government. -[3190.18 --> 3196.58] And this time, I'm going to do that in three points coming out of this text, -[3196.66 --> 3203.92] three points about responsible government or what responsible governing looks like from Romans 13. -[3203.92 --> 3208.82] And so, first, responsible governments understand order. -[3209.64 --> 3212.68] Now, that's the same as where we started last time, right? -[3212.76 --> 3214.74] And so, we'll be a little bit more brief here. -[3215.40 --> 3218.26] But second, responsible governments punish wrong. -[3218.80 --> 3219.56] We will see that. -[3219.66 --> 3223.54] And then third, responsible governments commend what is right. -[3223.54 --> 3228.16] So, understand order, punish wrong, commend what is right. -[3228.44 --> 3230.72] That's our map for this morning. -[3231.98 --> 3233.38] So, we start with number one. -[3233.48 --> 3237.42] Responsible governments understand that there is order. -[3238.42 --> 3242.58] That's what we mean when we look and what we see when we look at verse one, -[3243.16 --> 3244.22] where it says, -[3244.22 --> 3249.86] There is no authority except that which God has established. -[3250.30 --> 3254.76] The authorities that exist have been established by God. -[3256.14 --> 3258.46] And first point to note, right, -[3258.64 --> 3262.98] for our own posture as we enter into these discussions, -[3263.36 --> 3267.22] is that it says no authority exists. -[3268.22 --> 3268.80] Right? -[3268.80 --> 3269.48] And that is to say, -[3269.62 --> 3273.76] even the Roman emperor who persecuted Christians -[3273.76 --> 3276.26] was established by God for his purposes. -[3277.24 --> 3279.42] Or we can go a little bit back in Israel's history. -[3279.42 --> 3281.22] Even Nebuchadnezzar, -[3281.42 --> 3284.18] who carried the Israelites away in exile -[3284.18 --> 3287.94] and who ordered Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego -[3287.94 --> 3289.48] to bow down to an image, -[3289.54 --> 3290.28] and when they didn't, -[3290.30 --> 3292.40] threw them into a furnace, -[3293.60 --> 3297.66] even he is an authority established by God. -[3297.66 --> 3302.04] The Bible tells us that these political governing leaders -[3302.04 --> 3305.94] are there for God's purposes in history. -[3306.54 --> 3311.00] And it's because these governing authorities -[3311.00 --> 3315.30] are part of the created structure -[3315.30 --> 3319.38] that God has imbued in society. -[3320.94 --> 3323.40] Now, on the one hand, right, -[3323.40 --> 3326.52] these governing authorities exist -[3326.52 --> 3328.88] because there is sin in the world. -[3329.46 --> 3329.68] Right? -[3329.70 --> 3330.60] We read it very clearly -[3330.60 --> 3331.88] that part of their responsibility -[3331.88 --> 3335.68] is to punish evil or to restrain evil. -[3337.10 --> 3339.20] And we'll make that point more explicitly -[3339.20 --> 3340.08] in just a moment. -[3340.62 --> 3343.04] But part of what that means, of course, -[3343.14 --> 3344.40] is that there are certain functions -[3345.08 --> 3346.42] of these authorities, -[3346.76 --> 3347.98] of the government, right, -[3348.02 --> 3349.12] of these governing authorities -[3349.12 --> 3351.36] that only exist, -[3351.90 --> 3354.02] are only exercised in the world -[3354.02 --> 3355.80] because of the fall, -[3356.22 --> 3357.14] because of sin. -[3357.94 --> 3358.06] Right? -[3358.10 --> 3360.46] The reality of evil in the world -[3360.46 --> 3362.92] now has created the necessity -[3362.92 --> 3365.32] for these governing authorities. -[3366.90 --> 3367.80] And so to that end, -[3367.94 --> 3370.02] political scientists -[3370.02 --> 3372.96] and social philosophers -[3372.96 --> 3374.98] like Jonathan Chaplin -[3374.98 --> 3377.18] describe the state -[3377.18 --> 3380.58] as an aspect of God's common grace. -[3381.90 --> 3382.44] Right? -[3382.60 --> 3384.94] Common grace in ensuring justice, -[3385.14 --> 3386.38] common grace in ensuring -[3386.38 --> 3388.64] that the marginalized -[3388.64 --> 3391.56] are cared for and provided for. -[3393.00 --> 3397.00] But what I want us also to understand -[3397.00 --> 3401.34] that it's not just because of the fall -[3401.34 --> 3403.60] that we have these governing authorities. -[3404.88 --> 3405.40] Right? -[3405.42 --> 3407.92] It's not only because there is sin in the world. -[3408.28 --> 3412.98] The reality of what God has given us, -[3413.06 --> 3414.88] the reality of what we call -[3414.88 --> 3416.36] the cultural mandate -[3416.36 --> 3418.44] in Genesis 1 and 2 -[3418.44 --> 3420.82] where God spoke to Adam and Eve -[3420.82 --> 3422.82] telling them to be fruitful and multiply, -[3423.12 --> 3424.86] to fill the earth and to subdue it, -[3425.16 --> 3426.40] to rule over it, -[3426.40 --> 3429.20] to join together with God -[3429.20 --> 3431.36] in the ongoing act of creation -[3431.36 --> 3432.84] by developing cultures -[3432.84 --> 3435.66] and by exploring the world -[3435.66 --> 3437.14] and digging deep into -[3437.14 --> 3439.76] what God has provided for us. -[3439.92 --> 3441.66] Part of that ongoing, -[3442.14 --> 3445.46] creationally normative work in the world -[3445.46 --> 3447.98] is the patterning -[3447.98 --> 3450.48] and the ordering of society, -[3450.92 --> 3451.92] groups of people, -[3452.06 --> 3453.70] to accomplish these goals -[3453.70 --> 3454.46] and these purposes. -[3454.46 --> 3457.90] And so apart from the fall, -[3458.08 --> 3459.26] that would still happen, -[3459.38 --> 3460.54] that would still exist. -[3461.16 --> 3461.24] Right? -[3461.32 --> 3462.74] Society and people would -[3462.74 --> 3465.12] order themselves, -[3465.48 --> 3465.94] ourselves, -[3466.40 --> 3467.30] in groups -[3467.30 --> 3468.74] to accomplish the mission -[3468.74 --> 3470.38] that God has given us. -[3472.28 --> 3474.12] Now the patterns by which we organize -[3474.12 --> 3475.52] or the systems that we put in place -[3475.52 --> 3476.76] might look a little different, -[3476.88 --> 3478.96] but they would still be there -[3478.96 --> 3481.76] because we've been told by God -[3481.76 --> 3483.80] to fulfill these purposes -[3483.80 --> 3485.78] and we would do that -[3485.78 --> 3487.32] with order. -[3487.82 --> 3489.56] So these kinds of functions, -[3489.82 --> 3491.02] which are now also -[3491.02 --> 3493.66] part of the ongoing work of the state, -[3493.88 --> 3495.18] just apart from -[3495.18 --> 3497.14] the power that the state has -[3497.14 --> 3498.28] of coercion -[3498.28 --> 3499.78] or the power to punish. -[3499.78 --> 3502.38] There are some people -[3502.38 --> 3504.42] who have described this -[3504.42 --> 3507.68] as the life-giving politics -[3507.68 --> 3509.44] of the created order. -[3510.50 --> 3510.72] Right? -[3510.76 --> 3513.54] Of fulfilling the creation mandate. -[3514.88 --> 3515.48] In fact, -[3516.18 --> 3517.06] Richard Mao, -[3517.22 --> 3519.52] who's a modern contemporary -[3519.52 --> 3521.30] reformed theologian, -[3521.40 --> 3522.56] he says that -[3522.56 --> 3524.66] there is something about government -[3524.66 --> 3526.74] when it is functioning properly -[3526.74 --> 3528.48] that fits nicely -[3528.48 --> 3529.92] into God's basic -[3529.92 --> 3531.10] creating design -[3531.10 --> 3532.36] for human life. -[3537.12 --> 3539.16] Now part of what that means -[3539.16 --> 3542.36] is that these governing authorities -[3542.36 --> 3543.32] that exist -[3543.32 --> 3544.52] are established -[3544.52 --> 3546.16] for the purposes -[3546.16 --> 3547.96] of human flourishing. -[3549.20 --> 3551.10] They are part of God's -[3551.10 --> 3552.10] created order -[3552.10 --> 3553.26] for the well-being -[3553.26 --> 3554.76] of his image bearers -[3554.76 --> 3556.20] and his vice regents. -[3556.20 --> 3556.50] That is, -[3556.80 --> 3558.40] God has created us -[3558.40 --> 3559.16] for a purpose -[3559.16 --> 3560.42] and he has created -[3560.42 --> 3561.80] or established -[3561.80 --> 3563.40] in the language of Romans 13, -[3563.82 --> 3565.02] he has established -[3565.02 --> 3565.76] mechanisms -[3565.76 --> 3567.34] for our flourishing -[3567.34 --> 3568.94] in these purposes. -[3570.46 --> 3572.16] One of those mechanisms -[3572.16 --> 3575.42] is a well-ordered society, -[3575.94 --> 3578.52] a well-governed society. -[3579.92 --> 3581.82] And so in some people, -[3582.72 --> 3583.46] there is -[3583.46 --> 3585.82] what we might call -[3585.82 --> 3587.66] in modern political theory -[3587.66 --> 3590.28] a libertarian impulse -[3590.28 --> 3593.50] to get rid of all government. -[3594.50 --> 3596.16] But that denies -[3596.16 --> 3598.76] the creational purpose -[3598.76 --> 3600.66] that God has imbued -[3600.66 --> 3601.64] those structures -[3601.64 --> 3603.28] and systems with. -[3605.20 --> 3605.88] Now, -[3606.08 --> 3607.74] don't jump ahead -[3607.74 --> 3609.50] because we do understand -[3609.50 --> 3610.76] that when there's -[3610.76 --> 3611.94] political overreach -[3611.94 --> 3613.38] or systemic overreach -[3613.38 --> 3614.26] then our reaction -[3614.26 --> 3614.72] might be, -[3614.82 --> 3615.10] you know what, -[3615.10 --> 3615.66] it would be better -[3615.66 --> 3616.42] if they weren't there -[3616.42 --> 3616.84] at all. -[3618.26 --> 3619.28] But I want to challenge -[3619.28 --> 3620.40] immediately -[3620.40 --> 3621.34] the presumption -[3621.34 --> 3622.30] to jump from -[3622.30 --> 3623.62] overreach -[3623.62 --> 3625.10] to dissolution -[3625.10 --> 3626.52] without asking -[3626.52 --> 3627.96] what is good -[3627.96 --> 3629.70] in their purpose. -[3633.72 --> 3634.78] Governing authorities -[3634.78 --> 3636.96] exist for the well-being -[3636.96 --> 3639.68] of God's creation. -[3640.78 --> 3641.00] Right? -[3641.04 --> 3641.72] To ensure -[3641.72 --> 3642.96] that we, -[3643.26 --> 3644.16] image bearers -[3644.16 --> 3645.32] and vice regents, -[3645.72 --> 3647.24] would live out -[3647.24 --> 3648.40] the stewardship -[3648.40 --> 3649.62] responsibilities -[3649.62 --> 3651.38] that he has called us to. -[3652.76 --> 3654.38] And a governing authority -[3654.38 --> 3655.36] then that wants -[3655.36 --> 3656.66] to be responsible -[3656.66 --> 3658.18] with the power -[3658.18 --> 3659.64] that it has been granted, -[3659.82 --> 3660.42] with the authority -[3660.42 --> 3661.70] that it has been given, -[3662.00 --> 3663.14] will recognize -[3663.14 --> 3665.18] where it fits -[3665.18 --> 3666.82] in this order. -[3668.26 --> 3668.34] Right? -[3668.42 --> 3670.60] A responsible government -[3670.60 --> 3672.18] will understand -[3672.18 --> 3673.54] that any authority -[3673.54 --> 3674.54] that it has -[3674.54 --> 3676.32] has been granted -[3676.32 --> 3676.98] to it -[3676.98 --> 3678.42] for a period of time -[3678.42 --> 3679.64] by the creator -[3679.64 --> 3680.34] of the world. -[3682.02 --> 3683.22] And this probably -[3683.22 --> 3683.88] won't surprise -[3683.88 --> 3684.58] any of you, -[3684.82 --> 3685.56] but a government -[3685.56 --> 3686.94] that then denies -[3686.94 --> 3688.04] there is a creator -[3688.04 --> 3688.76] to the world -[3688.76 --> 3690.46] is being irresponsible -[3690.46 --> 3692.08] with the power -[3692.08 --> 3692.74] it has been given. -[3692.74 --> 3697.88] A government -[3697.88 --> 3698.98] that understands -[3698.98 --> 3700.30] that it has authority -[3700.30 --> 3702.10] will remember -[3702.10 --> 3703.14] that its power -[3703.14 --> 3704.50] is from God -[3704.50 --> 3705.32] and therefore -[3705.32 --> 3706.98] will also know -[3706.98 --> 3707.92] that its power -[3707.92 --> 3709.14] is not ultimate. -[3709.82 --> 3710.50] Right? -[3710.56 --> 3712.00] Because only God's power -[3712.00 --> 3713.02] is ultimate. -[3714.66 --> 3715.66] And so working this out, -[3715.72 --> 3716.72] a responsible government -[3716.72 --> 3717.42] will understand -[3717.42 --> 3718.86] that its role -[3718.86 --> 3720.16] is to ensure -[3720.16 --> 3722.00] then that the other powers -[3722.00 --> 3722.68] or the other -[3722.68 --> 3723.60] what we've called -[3723.60 --> 3725.02] spheres of authority, -[3725.30 --> 3726.42] the other established -[3726.42 --> 3726.94] spheres -[3726.94 --> 3728.48] or the other established -[3728.48 --> 3729.92] authorities in life -[3729.92 --> 3732.34] are able to function -[3732.34 --> 3733.60] well -[3733.60 --> 3734.78] in relationship -[3734.78 --> 3735.60] to each other. -[3736.60 --> 3737.34] And again, -[3737.42 --> 3738.28] let's be clear, -[3738.36 --> 3739.20] this isn't just -[3739.20 --> 3740.56] about the emperor -[3740.56 --> 3741.90] in relationship -[3741.90 --> 3742.76] to other spheres -[3742.76 --> 3743.58] or institutions -[3743.58 --> 3744.44] like family -[3744.44 --> 3745.16] or the arts -[3745.16 --> 3745.86] or sciences. -[3746.52 --> 3746.58] Right? -[3746.74 --> 3748.02] In the world today, -[3748.02 --> 3749.40] there are lots -[3749.40 --> 3750.42] of other -[3750.42 --> 3751.88] governing authorities -[3751.88 --> 3752.76] that would also -[3752.76 --> 3754.38] fall under this rubric -[3754.38 --> 3755.30] and then also -[3755.30 --> 3756.28] fall under -[3756.28 --> 3757.90] the cross purposes -[3757.90 --> 3759.94] of being for human flourishing -[3759.94 --> 3762.66] and having a limited scope -[3762.66 --> 3763.20] or sense -[3763.20 --> 3763.86] of its power -[3763.86 --> 3765.04] as part of -[3765.04 --> 3766.38] this order. -[3767.84 --> 3768.44] And so for instance, -[3768.56 --> 3769.70] if you are a doctor, -[3770.70 --> 3770.90] right, -[3770.94 --> 3771.98] there's a medical college -[3771.98 --> 3773.04] that has authority -[3773.04 --> 3774.54] and defines -[3774.54 --> 3775.16] in part -[3775.16 --> 3775.68] the scope -[3775.68 --> 3776.56] of your authority. -[3777.60 --> 3779.48] If you're a trades person, -[3779.82 --> 3779.98] right, -[3780.02 --> 3780.80] maybe you're familiar -[3780.80 --> 3781.82] with the ITA, -[3782.26 --> 3783.78] the Industry Training Authority, -[3784.26 --> 3785.08] or maybe you're familiar -[3785.08 --> 3786.06] with the BCSA, -[3786.24 --> 3787.52] the British Columbia -[3787.52 --> 3788.50] Safety Authority. -[3789.34 --> 3790.54] If you work nationally -[3790.54 --> 3791.34] in building, -[3791.48 --> 3792.20] maybe you're familiar -[3792.20 --> 3793.60] with the Red Seal program. -[3794.88 --> 3795.04] Right? -[3795.08 --> 3795.74] All of us, -[3796.06 --> 3797.38] especially here in BC, -[3797.64 --> 3798.30] are familiar -[3798.30 --> 3799.40] with unions -[3799.40 --> 3800.38] and the amount -[3800.38 --> 3801.22] of authority -[3801.22 --> 3802.20] that they have -[3802.20 --> 3803.08] in society -[3803.08 --> 3803.86] and influence. -[3804.76 --> 3804.94] Now, -[3805.18 --> 3805.56] again, -[3806.16 --> 3807.96] you might -[3807.96 --> 3808.86] winsomely -[3808.86 --> 3810.74] and I would probably -[3810.74 --> 3811.52] agree with you -[3811.52 --> 3812.36] that argue -[3812.36 --> 3813.44] that some of these -[3813.44 --> 3814.12] institutions -[3814.12 --> 3815.62] have too much authority -[3815.62 --> 3817.12] or have too much influence -[3817.12 --> 3818.36] in the day-to-day -[3818.36 --> 3819.52] running of life -[3819.52 --> 3820.02] and business. -[3820.14 --> 3820.66] And like I said, -[3820.70 --> 3821.64] you're probably right -[3821.64 --> 3822.60] in that argument. -[3823.22 --> 3824.18] But the fact -[3824.18 --> 3825.10] that they have -[3825.10 --> 3826.62] too much influence -[3826.62 --> 3828.28] is not -[3828.28 --> 3829.42] an argument -[3829.42 --> 3830.82] against the reality -[3830.82 --> 3832.38] of their necessity -[3832.38 --> 3834.04] and their place -[3834.04 --> 3835.64] as providentially -[3835.64 --> 3836.96] part of God's -[3836.96 --> 3838.70] providing for human -[3838.70 --> 3839.66] flourishing. -[3841.80 --> 3841.94] Okay? -[3842.18 --> 3842.60] In fact, -[3843.36 --> 3843.98] it's something -[3843.98 --> 3845.06] that we talked -[3845.06 --> 3846.02] about last time, -[3846.66 --> 3846.82] right? -[3846.90 --> 3847.98] That because -[3847.98 --> 3850.38] people have, -[3851.38 --> 3853.58] because of sin -[3853.58 --> 3854.30] in the world, -[3854.42 --> 3855.38] because of the reality -[3855.38 --> 3857.40] of our fallen nature, -[3857.40 --> 3859.62] these governing bodies -[3859.62 --> 3860.82] have a tendency -[3860.82 --> 3862.40] to overreach -[3862.40 --> 3863.28] and to stretch -[3863.28 --> 3863.96] beyond -[3863.96 --> 3864.96] their spheres. -[3866.08 --> 3867.52] But that's also, -[3867.86 --> 3868.06] then, -[3868.36 --> 3869.12] part of the -[3869.12 --> 3870.02] created order -[3870.02 --> 3870.78] responsibility -[3870.78 --> 3872.72] of the civil government, -[3873.06 --> 3873.28] right, -[3873.32 --> 3874.80] to hold those spheres -[3874.80 --> 3876.18] in proper relationship -[3876.18 --> 3876.82] to each other. -[3879.70 --> 3880.28] Now, -[3880.60 --> 3881.58] I get that maybe -[3881.58 --> 3882.22] this is -[3882.22 --> 3883.54] all very technical -[3883.54 --> 3885.60] in its ordering, -[3885.60 --> 3886.22] but this all -[3886.22 --> 3887.12] comes together -[3887.12 --> 3889.16] and it begs -[3889.16 --> 3889.90] the question -[3889.90 --> 3891.24] for those -[3891.24 --> 3892.14] who are serving -[3892.14 --> 3893.06] in government. -[3893.50 --> 3894.38] It begs the question -[3894.38 --> 3894.80] that we ought -[3894.80 --> 3895.42] to be asking -[3895.42 --> 3896.38] our leaders -[3896.38 --> 3897.34] who serve -[3897.34 --> 3897.84] in government, -[3898.26 --> 3898.42] right? -[3898.58 --> 3899.00] What, -[3899.16 --> 3899.60] then, -[3899.72 --> 3900.92] is the scope -[3900.92 --> 3902.10] and the proper -[3902.10 --> 3902.72] limit -[3902.72 --> 3904.12] of my authority? -[3905.32 --> 3905.54] Right? -[3905.60 --> 3906.56] Since this authority -[3906.56 --> 3907.56] is God-given, -[3908.02 --> 3908.78] what purpose -[3908.78 --> 3910.10] ought it to be -[3910.10 --> 3911.70] exercised for? -[3913.22 --> 3913.70] Now, -[3913.74 --> 3914.22] those are the next -[3914.22 --> 3914.82] two points. -[3915.60 --> 3916.22] that we make, -[3916.56 --> 3916.80] right? -[3916.84 --> 3917.96] That a responsible -[3917.96 --> 3919.08] government understands -[3919.08 --> 3921.20] that there is order -[3921.20 --> 3922.42] and that they have been, -[3922.58 --> 3923.82] are part of that order -[3923.82 --> 3924.88] and so, -[3925.16 --> 3927.36] in ensuring that order, -[3927.48 --> 3928.32] in working out -[3928.32 --> 3929.92] for that order -[3929.92 --> 3930.56] and the purpose -[3930.56 --> 3931.70] of human flourishing, -[3931.92 --> 3933.36] responsible governments -[3933.36 --> 3935.40] will punish wrongdoing. -[3936.86 --> 3937.38] That is to say, -[3937.44 --> 3938.24] responsible governments -[3938.24 --> 3939.58] exist in order -[3939.58 --> 3941.62] to help limit -[3941.62 --> 3943.10] the effect -[3943.10 --> 3944.44] and the impact -[3944.44 --> 3945.58] of evil -[3945.58 --> 3946.50] on society. -[3947.20 --> 3947.38] Now, -[3947.42 --> 3947.84] you'll see this -[3947.84 --> 3948.52] in verse 3. -[3949.54 --> 3949.80] Right? -[3949.90 --> 3950.84] Verse 3 says, -[3951.84 --> 3952.38] for rulers -[3952.38 --> 3953.38] hold no terror -[3953.38 --> 3954.50] for those who do right, -[3954.62 --> 3955.40] but for those -[3955.40 --> 3957.98] who do wrong. -[3958.82 --> 3959.88] And it's the same thing -[3959.88 --> 3960.80] in the middle part -[3960.80 --> 3961.48] of verse 4. -[3961.90 --> 3962.14] Right? -[3962.14 --> 3962.58] It says, -[3962.58 --> 3964.18] but if you do wrong, -[3964.40 --> 3965.00] be afraid, -[3965.50 --> 3966.06] for rulers -[3966.06 --> 3967.58] do not bear the sword -[3967.58 --> 3969.18] for no reason. -[3970.72 --> 3970.94] Now, -[3971.00 --> 3971.58] linguistically, -[3971.86 --> 3972.92] those two lines -[3972.92 --> 3974.60] are held together, -[3974.98 --> 3975.82] are tied together -[3975.82 --> 3976.68] with the word terror -[3976.68 --> 3977.46] and fear, -[3977.64 --> 3978.82] which is the same word -[3978.82 --> 3979.40] in Greek. -[3979.40 --> 3981.26] So, -[3981.34 --> 3982.34] responsible governments -[3982.34 --> 3984.88] exist to punish evil, -[3985.14 --> 3988.60] to rightly put -[3988.60 --> 3989.82] the fear of God -[3989.82 --> 3990.82] into citizens -[3990.82 --> 3991.76] who need that -[3991.76 --> 3992.68] in order to obey. -[3993.68 --> 3993.84] Now, -[3994.32 --> 3996.12] here's a great place -[3996.12 --> 3996.80] to follow up -[3996.80 --> 3999.38] converse together. -[3999.82 --> 3999.94] Right? -[4000.00 --> 4000.54] Because here, -[4000.86 --> 4002.54] there are legitimate debates -[4002.54 --> 4003.12] against, -[4003.84 --> 4004.86] or in contrast -[4004.86 --> 4005.88] of things like -[4005.88 --> 4006.96] punitive justice -[4006.96 --> 4008.28] versus restorative justice. -[4008.48 --> 4008.64] There are, -[4008.64 --> 4011.14] particular nuances -[4011.14 --> 4011.86] that you might want -[4011.86 --> 4012.76] to get into -[4012.76 --> 4013.98] about the penal system -[4013.98 --> 4015.34] in our own country -[4015.34 --> 4016.26] or in other countries -[4016.26 --> 4016.92] around the world. -[4017.24 --> 4017.62] And again, -[4017.72 --> 4018.44] these are really -[4018.44 --> 4019.78] important conversations -[4019.78 --> 4021.12] and I encourage you -[4021.12 --> 4021.66] to have them -[4021.66 --> 4022.60] and to discuss them -[4022.60 --> 4023.66] in your care groups -[4023.66 --> 4024.72] or other small groups -[4024.72 --> 4025.48] or with your friends, -[4025.86 --> 4026.58] colleagues, -[4027.06 --> 4028.64] to engage in them. -[4029.26 --> 4030.32] But the ground -[4030.32 --> 4032.58] of those ongoing discussions -[4032.58 --> 4033.84] remains the same. -[4035.48 --> 4035.58] Right? -[4035.64 --> 4036.98] Part of the government's purpose -[4036.98 --> 4038.14] is to deal -[4038.14 --> 4039.14] with wrongdoing -[4039.14 --> 4040.18] and wrongdoers -[4040.18 --> 4041.30] to impact, -[4041.68 --> 4042.26] or to limit, -[4042.36 --> 4042.50] sorry, -[4042.60 --> 4043.48] the impact -[4043.48 --> 4045.50] of that wrong -[4045.50 --> 4046.74] in our shared society -[4046.74 --> 4047.18] together. -[4048.40 --> 4048.84] Right? -[4048.92 --> 4050.12] If part of the order -[4050.12 --> 4051.92] is governments exist -[4051.92 --> 4054.52] to foster human flourishing, -[4055.52 --> 4056.98] those kinds of things -[4056.98 --> 4057.90] that work against -[4057.90 --> 4059.22] our flourishing together -[4059.22 --> 4060.86] need to be mitigated. -[4060.86 --> 4063.14] That's part of the responsibility -[4063.14 --> 4064.52] then of the government. -[4066.22 --> 4068.34] Sometimes those things -[4068.34 --> 4069.36] are mitigated -[4069.36 --> 4071.64] with strict -[4071.64 --> 4073.24] or severe -[4073.24 --> 4074.74] authority. -[4075.40 --> 4076.04] Right? -[4076.04 --> 4076.44] The government, -[4076.58 --> 4076.90] we read, -[4076.94 --> 4078.52] is given the sword, -[4079.32 --> 4080.68] which is an instrument -[4080.68 --> 4082.56] of the punishment -[4082.56 --> 4084.10] of death. -[4084.40 --> 4085.32] It's an instrument -[4085.32 --> 4086.38] of war. -[4086.38 --> 4086.42] war. -[4087.84 --> 4088.76] I think it was -[4088.76 --> 4089.68] R.C. Sproul -[4089.68 --> 4090.46] who said that -[4090.46 --> 4091.18] the government -[4091.18 --> 4092.42] is given the sword -[4092.42 --> 4093.82] not so that it might -[4093.82 --> 4094.64] rattle around -[4094.64 --> 4095.68] in its scabbard -[4095.68 --> 4097.52] and scare people -[4097.52 --> 4098.28] with an ultimately -[4098.28 --> 4099.12] idle threat, -[4099.38 --> 4101.56] but so that if it needed to, -[4101.64 --> 4102.44] it could pull it out -[4102.44 --> 4104.50] and cut down -[4104.50 --> 4105.44] evil. -[4107.84 --> 4108.88] But that sword -[4108.88 --> 4109.84] is wielded -[4109.84 --> 4111.66] for the common good. -[4111.66 --> 4113.68] Now, -[4113.92 --> 4114.74] immediately, -[4115.52 --> 4117.06] there are two things -[4117.06 --> 4117.58] that bubble up -[4117.58 --> 4118.10] to the surface -[4118.10 --> 4119.12] in this conversation, -[4119.78 --> 4119.94] right? -[4120.00 --> 4120.74] And that is -[4120.74 --> 4121.80] the politics -[4121.80 --> 4123.58] and the theology -[4123.58 --> 4125.38] of the death penalty. -[4127.86 --> 4129.48] This is a divisive -[4129.48 --> 4131.14] and controversial topic. -[4132.50 --> 4134.24] Is the death penalty -[4134.24 --> 4135.62] right and good? -[4136.30 --> 4137.32] And from an easy -[4137.32 --> 4138.20] and simple reading -[4138.20 --> 4138.66] of Scripture, -[4138.84 --> 4139.56] it seems clear -[4139.56 --> 4140.12] that the government -[4140.12 --> 4141.16] is given the authority -[4141.16 --> 4143.24] to exercise punishment -[4143.24 --> 4144.68] and so take a life, -[4144.86 --> 4145.60] lose a life. -[4147.04 --> 4148.18] And I don't want -[4148.18 --> 4149.04] to dismiss -[4149.04 --> 4149.90] or downplay -[4149.90 --> 4150.82] that reality. -[4150.96 --> 4151.90] I think that if you -[4151.90 --> 4153.62] willfully, -[4153.84 --> 4154.36] intentionally, -[4154.62 --> 4155.58] premeditatively -[4155.58 --> 4156.58] kill someone, -[4157.38 --> 4158.40] you have forfeited -[4158.40 --> 4159.52] your own right to life. -[4159.60 --> 4160.44] I think that is fair. -[4160.80 --> 4161.42] And yet, -[4162.30 --> 4164.92] I'm also very aware -[4164.92 --> 4166.90] that the injustices -[4166.90 --> 4167.70] that exist -[4167.70 --> 4169.36] in the current -[4169.36 --> 4170.24] penal system -[4170.24 --> 4172.02] are racially biased. -[4172.18 --> 4172.98] The injustices -[4172.98 --> 4173.64] that exist -[4173.64 --> 4174.28] in the current -[4174.28 --> 4175.34] penal system -[4175.34 --> 4177.04] are systemically biased -[4177.04 --> 4178.46] against other people. -[4178.52 --> 4179.04] And so it makes it -[4179.04 --> 4179.86] very hard -[4179.86 --> 4181.24] to discern. -[4182.40 --> 4183.78] It's not as simple -[4183.78 --> 4185.44] or as clear cut -[4185.44 --> 4186.34] as we might think -[4186.34 --> 4186.76] because -[4186.76 --> 4189.40] we are all -[4189.40 --> 4189.90] struggling -[4189.90 --> 4191.10] with the reality -[4191.10 --> 4191.78] of sin -[4191.78 --> 4192.90] in our midst. -[4192.90 --> 4195.28] another thing -[4195.28 --> 4195.88] that this is -[4195.88 --> 4196.90] related to -[4196.90 --> 4198.32] in the government -[4198.32 --> 4199.26] holding the sword. -[4199.54 --> 4200.28] Again, remember, -[4200.50 --> 4201.48] the sword is -[4201.48 --> 4202.82] a weapon of war -[4202.82 --> 4204.84] and the idea -[4204.84 --> 4206.78] of just war -[4206.78 --> 4208.42] or are Christians -[4208.42 --> 4209.74] able to participate -[4209.74 --> 4211.12] in any form -[4211.12 --> 4211.78] of warfare. -[4211.96 --> 4212.84] This is related -[4212.84 --> 4213.46] to that. -[4214.58 --> 4215.18] And Christians -[4215.18 --> 4216.38] like Augustine -[4216.38 --> 4218.16] and Thomas Aquinas -[4218.16 --> 4218.66] have done, -[4218.84 --> 4220.06] have written -[4220.06 --> 4220.96] voluminously -[4220.96 --> 4222.22] on this subject -[4222.22 --> 4222.68] and we're not -[4222.68 --> 4223.04] going to get -[4223.04 --> 4224.26] into it here -[4224.26 --> 4225.60] except to say -[4225.60 --> 4227.68] that one of the reasons -[4227.68 --> 4228.38] that Christians -[4228.38 --> 4229.18] have argued -[4229.18 --> 4230.54] for just war -[4230.54 --> 4231.46] is for -[4231.46 --> 4232.58] the protection -[4232.58 --> 4233.96] of those -[4233.96 --> 4235.16] who are weak, -[4235.28 --> 4235.98] is for -[4235.98 --> 4237.24] the ensuring -[4237.24 --> 4239.22] of human flourishing. -[4240.50 --> 4241.10] And if you need -[4241.10 --> 4241.98] to go to war -[4241.98 --> 4243.04] to stop -[4243.04 --> 4244.96] an autocratic ruler -[4244.96 --> 4246.26] or a dictatorial ruler -[4246.26 --> 4247.14] who has forgotten -[4247.14 --> 4248.34] that their authority -[4248.34 --> 4249.20] is given to them -[4249.20 --> 4249.96] by God -[4249.96 --> 4250.92] and has instead -[4250.92 --> 4251.82] taken on -[4251.82 --> 4252.92] more of their own -[4252.92 --> 4253.78] in order to bolster -[4253.78 --> 4254.30] themselves -[4254.30 --> 4255.56] or to lay claim -[4255.56 --> 4256.48] to more and more, -[4256.56 --> 4257.98] to consume more and more, -[4258.22 --> 4259.68] then there is a principle -[4259.68 --> 4260.20] that says -[4260.20 --> 4261.10] it is just -[4261.10 --> 4262.42] for the well-being -[4262.42 --> 4263.02] of those -[4263.02 --> 4263.88] who are being -[4263.88 --> 4265.10] trodden upon -[4265.10 --> 4267.06] to wield that sword. -[4269.20 --> 4269.98] But again, -[4271.24 --> 4272.20] we can talk more -[4272.20 --> 4272.90] about this. -[4273.76 --> 4273.88] Right? -[4273.92 --> 4274.32] And you -[4274.32 --> 4275.82] are required -[4275.82 --> 4277.04] to discern -[4277.04 --> 4278.34] for yourselves -[4278.34 --> 4279.60] in your context. -[4280.06 --> 4281.16] What does Paul say? -[4281.26 --> 4282.02] As a matter -[4282.02 --> 4282.88] of conscience. -[4284.92 --> 4285.78] This is one -[4285.78 --> 4286.50] of those areas -[4286.50 --> 4287.22] where Christians -[4287.22 --> 4288.80] can have -[4288.80 --> 4289.70] the freedom -[4289.70 --> 4290.32] of conscience -[4290.32 --> 4291.18] to decide -[4291.18 --> 4291.92] differently. -[4292.08 --> 4292.76] I am not -[4292.76 --> 4293.46] going to stand up here -[4293.46 --> 4294.58] and bind your conscience -[4294.58 --> 4295.76] on these things -[4295.76 --> 4296.82] one way or the other -[4296.82 --> 4298.66] except to bind you -[4298.66 --> 4299.88] to what Scripture -[4299.88 --> 4300.64] binds you. -[4301.72 --> 4302.18] And that is -[4302.18 --> 4302.86] the presumption -[4302.86 --> 4303.46] that the government -[4303.46 --> 4303.98] exists -[4303.98 --> 4305.54] and that it exists -[4305.54 --> 4307.12] to punish evil. -[4309.30 --> 4309.98] We can have -[4309.98 --> 4310.66] a difference of opinion -[4310.66 --> 4311.28] on how -[4311.28 --> 4312.84] that is accomplished. -[4313.60 --> 4314.76] But that it needs -[4314.76 --> 4315.78] to be accomplished -[4315.78 --> 4317.06] is fixed -[4317.06 --> 4318.44] in God's Word -[4318.44 --> 4318.90] to us. -[4322.08 --> 4323.16] Now the other side -[4323.16 --> 4324.60] and this continues -[4324.60 --> 4326.70] is our third point. -[4326.82 --> 4327.82] Responsible government -[4327.82 --> 4328.96] exists -[4328.96 --> 4329.96] to commend -[4329.96 --> 4331.88] what is right. -[4331.88 --> 4333.48] This again -[4333.48 --> 4334.18] comes from -[4334.18 --> 4335.02] verse 3 and 4 -[4335.02 --> 4335.74] in different parts. -[4336.24 --> 4336.70] Do you want -[4336.70 --> 4337.58] to be free -[4337.58 --> 4338.52] from fear -[4338.52 --> 4339.30] of the one -[4339.30 --> 4339.96] in authority? -[4340.86 --> 4342.22] Do what is right -[4342.22 --> 4343.32] and you will be -[4343.32 --> 4343.72] commended. -[4345.00 --> 4345.44] For the one -[4345.44 --> 4346.06] in authority -[4346.06 --> 4347.60] is God's servant -[4347.60 --> 4348.62] for your good. -[4350.80 --> 4351.66] The Belgian -[4351.66 --> 4352.26] Confession -[4352.26 --> 4352.98] which is a -[4352.98 --> 4354.66] summary document -[4354.66 --> 4355.60] of the Christian -[4355.60 --> 4356.30] Reformed Church -[4356.30 --> 4357.26] Reformed tradition -[4357.26 --> 4358.64] says -[4358.64 --> 4359.80] that the government -[4359.80 --> 4360.58] exists -[4360.58 --> 4361.70] to contribute -[4361.70 --> 4362.90] to the advancement -[4362.90 --> 4364.14] of society -[4364.14 --> 4365.50] that is pleasing -[4365.50 --> 4366.28] to God. -[4367.98 --> 4368.58] The idea -[4368.58 --> 4369.66] that responsible -[4369.66 --> 4370.60] governments -[4370.60 --> 4372.38] commend what is right -[4372.38 --> 4373.64] will then also -[4373.64 --> 4375.28] build up -[4375.28 --> 4375.90] what is good -[4375.90 --> 4376.66] for society. -[4379.24 --> 4379.80] And -[4379.80 --> 4381.68] inherent in that -[4381.68 --> 4382.28] I think -[4382.28 --> 4384.22] are limits -[4384.22 --> 4385.56] to -[4385.56 --> 4386.88] a government's -[4386.88 --> 4387.40] authority. -[4388.14 --> 4388.70] Or to use -[4388.70 --> 4389.12] the language -[4389.12 --> 4389.58] that we have -[4389.58 --> 4389.96] been using -[4389.96 --> 4390.42] these last -[4390.42 --> 4390.94] couple weeks -[4390.94 --> 4392.06] the spheres -[4392.06 --> 4393.04] have edges. -[4394.72 --> 4395.44] There's -[4395.44 --> 4397.86] a point -[4397.86 --> 4398.86] whereby -[4398.86 --> 4399.88] that -[4399.88 --> 4400.98] authority -[4400.98 --> 4402.12] is limited. -[4403.56 --> 4404.20] So rulers -[4404.20 --> 4405.76] hold no terror -[4405.76 --> 4407.40] and people -[4407.40 --> 4408.42] are to be -[4408.42 --> 4409.68] hold no terror -[4409.68 --> 4410.08] for people -[4410.08 --> 4411.08] who do good -[4411.08 --> 4411.56] and people -[4411.56 --> 4412.22] are to be -[4412.22 --> 4412.62] free. -[4412.62 --> 4413.70] free from -[4413.70 --> 4414.52] the establishment -[4414.52 --> 4415.54] if they do -[4415.54 --> 4416.26] what is right. -[4417.34 --> 4417.74] So I think -[4417.74 --> 4418.38] part of what -[4418.38 --> 4419.20] comes out -[4419.20 --> 4420.30] of this idea -[4420.30 --> 4421.78] is the -[4421.78 --> 4422.42] principle -[4422.42 --> 4423.70] in political -[4423.70 --> 4424.44] theory we talk -[4424.44 --> 4424.78] about the -[4424.78 --> 4425.36] principle of -[4425.36 --> 4426.50] limited powers. -[4427.46 --> 4428.42] That governing -[4428.42 --> 4429.04] authorities -[4429.04 --> 4430.38] whether in -[4430.38 --> 4431.54] a parliamentary -[4431.54 --> 4432.56] system or -[4432.56 --> 4433.54] in a -[4433.54 --> 4434.68] democratic -[4434.68 --> 4435.10] republic -[4435.10 --> 4435.56] system -[4435.56 --> 4436.12] depending on -[4436.12 --> 4437.06] what you like -[4437.06 --> 4437.40] that there's -[4437.40 --> 4438.10] a limit -[4438.10 --> 4438.86] to the -[4438.86 --> 4439.50] powers -[4439.50 --> 4440.52] of those -[4440.52 --> 4441.36] people who -[4441.36 --> 4442.20] serve in -[4442.20 --> 4442.54] government. -[4442.62 --> 4443.16] be it the -[4443.16 --> 4443.68] prime minister -[4443.68 --> 4444.48] or the -[4444.48 --> 4444.84] president -[4444.84 --> 4445.86] the emperor -[4445.86 --> 4446.84] or the king. -[4448.02 --> 4448.50] And I think -[4448.50 --> 4449.12] as well -[4449.12 --> 4450.28] there are -[4450.28 --> 4451.70] principles here -[4451.70 --> 4452.66] of civil -[4452.66 --> 4453.22] freedom. -[4454.82 --> 4454.98] Right? -[4455.10 --> 4455.74] Civil freedoms -[4455.74 --> 4456.16] whether that's -[4456.16 --> 4456.94] the freedom -[4456.94 --> 4457.50] of religion -[4457.50 --> 4458.16] or assembly -[4458.16 --> 4459.18] or the -[4459.18 --> 4459.50] freedom -[4459.50 --> 4461.22] of speech -[4461.22 --> 4462.82] to discourse -[4462.82 --> 4463.74] about these -[4463.74 --> 4464.16] things -[4464.16 --> 4465.34] free from -[4465.34 --> 4466.94] the fear -[4466.94 --> 4468.28] of being -[4468.28 --> 4469.00] punished -[4469.00 --> 4470.58] for having -[4470.58 --> 4471.32] ideas -[4471.32 --> 4471.76] that may -[4471.76 --> 4472.50] be contrary -[4472.50 --> 4473.22] to the -[4473.22 --> 4473.60] ideas of -[4473.60 --> 4473.84] the people -[4473.84 --> 4474.44] around us. -[4474.54 --> 4474.86] I think -[4474.86 --> 4475.44] that's all -[4475.44 --> 4476.28] in here. -[4477.98 --> 4478.60] Now notice -[4478.60 --> 4480.20] that Paul -[4480.20 --> 4481.14] calls these -[4481.14 --> 4481.54] governing -[4481.54 --> 4482.18] authorities -[4482.18 --> 4483.02] then, -[4483.10 --> 4483.56] these governing -[4483.56 --> 4484.12] officials, -[4484.38 --> 4484.86] these people -[4484.86 --> 4485.34] in authority, -[4485.42 --> 4485.94] he calls -[4485.94 --> 4486.32] them -[4486.32 --> 4488.42] in verse -[4488.42 --> 4488.82] 4 -[4488.82 --> 4489.76] God's -[4489.76 --> 4490.38] servant -[4490.38 --> 4491.68] for your -[4491.68 --> 4492.00] good. -[4492.00 --> 4493.52] Now the -[4493.52 --> 4493.92] word that -[4493.92 --> 4494.36] he uses -[4494.36 --> 4495.04] for servant -[4495.04 --> 4495.64] here is -[4495.64 --> 4496.20] particular. -[4496.72 --> 4497.16] It's a -[4497.16 --> 4497.56] word that -[4497.56 --> 4498.02] can also -[4498.02 --> 4498.68] mean waiter. -[4499.54 --> 4499.74] Right? -[4499.76 --> 4500.06] Like a -[4500.06 --> 4500.86] server at -[4500.86 --> 4501.76] a restaurant. -[4502.38 --> 4503.20] It's actually -[4503.20 --> 4503.72] the word -[4503.72 --> 4504.10] that in -[4504.10 --> 4504.48] church -[4504.48 --> 4505.20] we get -[4505.20 --> 4505.54] the word -[4505.54 --> 4505.96] deacon -[4505.96 --> 4506.36] from. -[4507.58 --> 4507.82] Deacon -[4507.82 --> 4508.18] is an -[4508.18 --> 4508.70] office of -[4508.70 --> 4509.18] the church -[4509.18 --> 4510.32] and deacons -[4510.32 --> 4510.78] serve, -[4510.90 --> 4511.18] one of the -[4511.18 --> 4511.54] ways they -[4511.54 --> 4512.24] serve is -[4512.24 --> 4513.44] to help -[4513.44 --> 4514.66] us meet -[4514.66 --> 4515.56] the needs -[4515.56 --> 4515.98] of one -[4515.98 --> 4516.26] another. -[4518.00 --> 4518.48] And really -[4518.48 --> 4519.10] taking this -[4519.10 --> 4519.66] idea and -[4519.66 --> 4520.34] connecting it -[4520.34 --> 4521.42] to governance -[4521.42 --> 4522.56] connecting it -[4522.56 --> 4523.34] to authorities -[4523.34 --> 4524.20] as being -[4524.20 --> 4525.50] servants is -[4525.50 --> 4526.04] where we -[4526.04 --> 4526.44] get the -[4526.44 --> 4527.16] concept of -[4527.16 --> 4527.52] servant -[4527.52 --> 4528.04] leadership -[4528.04 --> 4528.48] from. -[4530.02 --> 4530.10] Right? -[4530.18 --> 4530.80] Responsible -[4530.80 --> 4531.60] governing then -[4531.60 --> 4532.56] understands -[4532.56 --> 4533.52] that your -[4533.52 --> 4534.26] role in -[4534.26 --> 4535.36] society is -[4535.36 --> 4536.28] to serve. -[4537.88 --> 4538.20] Now again, -[4538.26 --> 4538.60] this is going -[4538.60 --> 4539.20] to fly in -[4539.20 --> 4539.68] the face -[4539.68 --> 4540.00] of the -[4540.00 --> 4540.60] impulse -[4540.60 --> 4541.14] of -[4541.14 --> 4541.82] authoritarian -[4541.82 --> 4542.82] or dictatorial -[4542.82 --> 4543.20] rule. -[4543.56 --> 4543.64] Right? -[4544.30 --> 4545.06] Responsible -[4545.06 --> 4545.56] governing -[4545.56 --> 4546.84] doesn't seize -[4546.84 --> 4547.50] power, -[4547.98 --> 4548.54] but instead -[4548.54 --> 4549.32] responsible -[4549.32 --> 4549.70] governing -[4549.70 --> 4550.62] gives up -[4550.62 --> 4551.28] power -[4551.28 --> 4551.70] for the -[4551.70 --> 4552.22] well-being -[4552.22 --> 4552.58] of its -[4552.58 --> 4553.02] citizens. -[4554.24 --> 4554.70] In that -[4554.70 --> 4555.02] way, -[4555.14 --> 4555.70] responsible -[4555.70 --> 4556.40] governments -[4556.40 --> 4557.44] actually -[4557.44 --> 4558.40] begin to -[4558.40 --> 4559.50] model for -[4559.50 --> 4559.86] us -[4559.86 --> 4560.38] Jesus. -[4561.50 --> 4561.74] Right? -[4561.82 --> 4562.46] Jesus who -[4562.46 --> 4563.56] gave up -[4563.56 --> 4564.04] power, -[4564.14 --> 4564.52] who didn't -[4564.52 --> 4565.36] seize power, -[4565.36 --> 4566.22] who emptied -[4566.22 --> 4566.94] himself of -[4566.94 --> 4567.68] all but love -[4567.68 --> 4568.44] and submitted -[4568.44 --> 4569.08] himself to -[4569.08 --> 4569.90] the authorities -[4569.90 --> 4570.92] around him -[4570.92 --> 4571.66] in order that -[4571.66 --> 4572.74] by his death -[4572.74 --> 4573.86] many might -[4573.86 --> 4574.40] live. -[4575.86 --> 4576.64] That's the -[4576.64 --> 4577.44] model of -[4577.44 --> 4578.04] responsible -[4578.04 --> 4579.06] government. -[4579.06 --> 4581.24] God -[4581.24 --> 4581.30] Now, -[4581.38 --> 4581.64] of course, -[4582.44 --> 4582.84] it doesn't -[4582.84 --> 4583.44] always happen. -[4584.24 --> 4585.12] Jesus isn't -[4585.12 --> 4585.60] the model -[4585.60 --> 4586.18] for many -[4586.18 --> 4587.08] of our -[4587.08 --> 4587.48] governing -[4587.48 --> 4588.24] authorities. -[4589.38 --> 4589.60] And in -[4589.60 --> 4589.80] fact, -[4589.96 --> 4590.72] many of -[4590.72 --> 4590.90] our -[4590.90 --> 4591.22] governing -[4591.22 --> 4591.90] authorities -[4591.90 --> 4593.32] explicitly -[4593.32 --> 4594.90] reject -[4594.90 --> 4595.94] Jesus. -[4597.10 --> 4597.74] But that -[4597.74 --> 4598.14] doesn't change -[4598.14 --> 4598.40] the fact -[4598.40 --> 4598.62] that he -[4598.62 --> 4599.22] should be. -[4601.40 --> 4602.02] And that -[4602.02 --> 4602.28] when we -[4602.28 --> 4602.60] hold our -[4602.60 --> 4603.02] leaders to -[4603.02 --> 4603.36] that kind -[4603.36 --> 4603.94] of standard, -[4604.40 --> 4605.16] we're saying -[4605.16 --> 4605.56] something -[4605.56 --> 4606.34] particular to -[4606.34 --> 4606.56] them. -[4609.30 --> 4610.08] This week, -[4610.14 --> 4610.58] I had -[4610.58 --> 4610.90] a chance -[4610.90 --> 4613.04] to read -[4613.04 --> 4614.46] a Christian -[4614.46 --> 4616.46] pastor who -[4616.46 --> 4617.50] is serving -[4617.50 --> 4618.12] a church -[4618.12 --> 4619.36] in Iran. -[4620.94 --> 4621.82] His name -[4621.82 --> 4622.32] is Nima -[4622.32 --> 4623.84] Alizadeh. -[4625.28 --> 4626.10] And he -[4626.10 --> 4627.34] talks about -[4627.34 --> 4628.44] Romans 13 -[4628.44 --> 4630.34] actually as -[4630.34 --> 4630.88] flowing -[4630.88 --> 4632.70] directly out -[4632.70 --> 4633.38] of the -[4633.38 --> 4634.00] previous -[4634.00 --> 4635.06] imperative -[4635.06 --> 4635.90] in Romans -[4635.90 --> 4636.28] 12, -[4636.34 --> 4636.90] verse 21. -[4637.54 --> 4637.82] So if you -[4637.82 --> 4638.00] have your -[4638.00 --> 4638.52] Bible open, -[4638.60 --> 4639.18] Romans 12, -[4639.26 --> 4639.76] verse 21 -[4639.76 --> 4640.32] says, -[4640.94 --> 4641.36] do not -[4641.36 --> 4642.08] be overcome -[4642.08 --> 4643.16] by evil, -[4643.64 --> 4644.46] but overcome -[4644.46 --> 4646.54] evil with -[4646.54 --> 4647.58] good. -[4649.48 --> 4650.32] So here -[4650.32 --> 4650.72] you have -[4650.72 --> 4651.50] an Iranian -[4651.50 --> 4652.48] Christian -[4652.48 --> 4654.30] serving in -[4654.30 --> 4654.66] a place -[4654.66 --> 4654.98] where it -[4654.98 --> 4655.76] is illegal -[4655.76 --> 4656.72] to be -[4656.72 --> 4657.46] Christian, -[4658.36 --> 4658.86] arguing -[4658.86 --> 4659.72] for the -[4659.72 --> 4660.30] importance -[4660.30 --> 4661.22] of Romans -[4661.22 --> 4662.10] 13 and -[4662.10 --> 4662.96] submitting to -[4662.96 --> 4663.68] governing -[4663.68 --> 4664.46] authorities -[4664.46 --> 4664.74] authorities -[4664.74 --> 4666.22] and framing -[4666.22 --> 4666.96] that in -[4666.96 --> 4667.94] the context -[4667.94 --> 4668.94] of do not -[4668.94 --> 4669.36] be overcome -[4669.36 --> 4669.88] by evil, -[4669.98 --> 4670.62] but overcome -[4670.62 --> 4671.44] evil with -[4671.44 --> 4671.80] good. -[4672.16 --> 4673.28] He argues -[4673.28 --> 4673.64] in his -[4673.64 --> 4674.10] writing that -[4674.10 --> 4674.84] we should -[4674.84 --> 4675.88] expect most -[4675.88 --> 4676.66] governments to -[4676.66 --> 4677.28] be evil and -[4677.28 --> 4677.68] corrupt, -[4677.68 --> 4678.50] but our -[4678.50 --> 4679.62] humble submission -[4679.62 --> 4680.84] to them is -[4680.84 --> 4681.34] a sort of -[4681.34 --> 4681.82] Christian -[4681.82 --> 4683.26] subversion of -[4683.26 --> 4683.78] that evil -[4683.78 --> 4684.30] authority. -[4686.48 --> 4686.90] And so here -[4686.90 --> 4688.78] is someone who -[4688.78 --> 4689.18] lives in a -[4689.18 --> 4691.26] context that -[4691.26 --> 4692.44] I have -[4692.44 --> 4692.70] never -[4692.70 --> 4693.54] experienced -[4693.54 --> 4695.64] and yet -[4695.64 --> 4696.26] challenges -[4696.26 --> 4697.16] me deeply -[4697.16 --> 4698.18] in the -[4698.18 --> 4698.72] context I -[4698.72 --> 4699.20] live in. -[4702.34 --> 4702.86] Abraham -[4702.86 --> 4703.36] Kuyper -[4703.36 --> 4704.62] was a -[4704.62 --> 4704.80] Dutch -[4704.80 --> 4705.48] theologian -[4705.48 --> 4706.68] and politician. -[4706.68 --> 4707.02] He was -[4707.02 --> 4707.60] prime minister -[4707.60 --> 4707.88] of the -[4707.88 --> 4708.18] Netherlands -[4708.18 --> 4709.54] from 1901 -[4709.54 --> 4710.54] to 1905. -[4710.66 --> 4710.94] For those -[4710.94 --> 4711.28] of you with -[4711.28 --> 4711.84] ears to hear, -[4711.94 --> 4712.38] much of what -[4712.38 --> 4712.74] I have been -[4712.74 --> 4713.88] saying about -[4713.88 --> 4714.80] the governance -[4714.80 --> 4715.38] and political -[4715.38 --> 4715.94] theory and -[4715.94 --> 4716.68] structure comes -[4716.68 --> 4717.26] from him. -[4718.38 --> 4718.82] And he -[4718.82 --> 4719.58] says in a -[4719.58 --> 4720.98] lovely mixed -[4720.98 --> 4721.42] metaphor, -[4722.70 --> 4723.64] the state -[4723.64 --> 4724.22] may never -[4724.22 --> 4725.00] become an -[4725.00 --> 4726.26] octopus which -[4726.26 --> 4727.10] stifles the -[4727.10 --> 4727.58] whole of -[4727.58 --> 4727.94] life. -[4728.42 --> 4728.74] It must -[4728.74 --> 4729.68] occupy its -[4729.68 --> 4730.46] own place -[4730.46 --> 4730.98] on its -[4730.98 --> 4731.62] own root -[4731.62 --> 4732.38] among all -[4732.38 --> 4732.78] the other -[4732.78 --> 4733.36] trees of -[4733.36 --> 4733.88] the forest -[4733.88 --> 4734.68] and thus -[4734.68 --> 4735.78] it has to -[4735.78 --> 4736.40] honor and -[4736.40 --> 4737.22] maintain every -[4737.22 --> 4737.70] form of -[4737.70 --> 4738.42] life which -[4738.42 --> 4738.70] grows -[4738.70 --> 4739.42] independently -[4739.42 --> 4740.08] in its -[4740.08 --> 4740.72] own sacred -[4740.72 --> 4741.48] autonomy. -[4743.96 --> 4744.36] And so you -[4744.36 --> 4744.82] see here -[4744.82 --> 4745.32] these two -[4745.32 --> 4745.80] things. -[4745.80 --> 4747.76] The impulse -[4747.76 --> 4748.94] of all -[4748.94 --> 4749.48] governing -[4749.48 --> 4750.12] authority -[4750.12 --> 4750.92] because of -[4750.92 --> 4751.66] sin is to -[4751.66 --> 4752.58] become an -[4752.58 --> 4753.42] octopus or -[4753.42 --> 4754.40] is to -[4754.40 --> 4756.86] present evil -[4756.86 --> 4757.78] but our -[4757.78 --> 4758.84] response -[4758.84 --> 4761.14] as Christian -[4761.14 --> 4762.06] citizens and -[4762.06 --> 4762.84] as Christians -[4762.84 --> 4763.78] in politics -[4763.78 --> 4765.02] is to hold -[4765.02 --> 4765.80] up the model -[4765.80 --> 4766.40] of the Lord -[4766.40 --> 4767.30] Jesus Christ. -[4768.14 --> 4769.26] Our response -[4769.26 --> 4769.86] is to -[4769.86 --> 4771.36] properly define -[4771.36 --> 4773.32] order and -[4773.32 --> 4774.26] our response -[4774.26 --> 4775.22] is to -[4775.22 --> 4776.40] not be -[4776.40 --> 4776.70] overcome -[4776.70 --> 4777.48] by evil -[4777.48 --> 4778.32] but overcome -[4778.32 --> 4779.58] evil with -[4779.58 --> 4780.38] good. -[4780.60 --> 4781.18] And part -[4781.18 --> 4782.02] of how we -[4782.02 --> 4782.64] do that -[4782.64 --> 4783.82] is showing -[4783.82 --> 4785.34] our governments -[4785.34 --> 4787.56] this truth. -[4789.48 --> 4790.44] Now let's -[4790.44 --> 4790.90] pull all these -[4790.90 --> 4791.50] things together -[4791.50 --> 4792.44] then and -[4792.44 --> 4792.86] then let's -[4792.86 --> 4794.00] land this -[4794.00 --> 4794.62] plane and -[4794.62 --> 4795.48] encourage further -[4795.48 --> 4795.90] discussion. -[4797.80 --> 4798.46] Responsible -[4798.46 --> 4799.08] governments -[4799.08 --> 4800.48] will understand -[4800.48 --> 4801.56] that there is -[4801.56 --> 4802.40] a created -[4802.40 --> 4803.32] order of which -[4803.32 --> 4803.78] they are a -[4803.78 --> 4804.02] part. -[4805.06 --> 4805.62] Responsible -[4805.62 --> 4806.02] governments -[4806.02 --> 4806.72] will understand -[4806.72 --> 4807.12] that they -[4807.12 --> 4807.90] have a -[4807.90 --> 4808.42] responsibility -[4808.42 --> 4809.46] to punish -[4809.46 --> 4810.10] evil and -[4810.10 --> 4810.44] to limit -[4810.44 --> 4810.94] the effects -[4810.94 --> 4811.38] of sin -[4811.38 --> 4812.46] and responsible -[4812.46 --> 4813.48] governments -[4813.48 --> 4814.18] will then -[4814.18 --> 4815.22] also understand -[4815.22 --> 4816.56] that part -[4816.56 --> 4817.06] of what they -[4817.06 --> 4817.88] do is to -[4817.88 --> 4818.96] commend what -[4818.96 --> 4820.22] is right. -[4821.82 --> 4822.36] And in -[4822.36 --> 4822.86] verse 6 -[4822.86 --> 4824.56] Paul says -[4824.56 --> 4826.14] that these -[4826.14 --> 4826.74] authorities -[4826.74 --> 4828.10] are God's -[4828.10 --> 4828.94] servants. -[4831.30 --> 4832.00] Now this -[4832.00 --> 4832.26] is a -[4832.26 --> 4833.02] different word -[4833.02 --> 4833.60] in Greek -[4833.60 --> 4833.96] than the -[4833.96 --> 4834.22] one he -[4834.22 --> 4834.72] used in -[4834.72 --> 4835.24] verse 4. -[4836.22 --> 4836.98] In verse 4 -[4836.98 --> 4837.46] he used -[4837.46 --> 4837.82] the word -[4837.82 --> 4838.10] that we -[4838.10 --> 4838.86] know means -[4838.86 --> 4839.24] deacon. -[4839.60 --> 4840.32] Here the -[4840.32 --> 4840.84] word he -[4840.84 --> 4842.16] uses is -[4842.16 --> 4843.34] liturgoi -[4843.34 --> 4845.18] which is -[4845.18 --> 4845.78] only ever -[4845.78 --> 4847.12] used of -[4847.12 --> 4847.60] ministers -[4847.60 --> 4848.74] and people -[4848.74 --> 4849.34] who serve -[4849.34 --> 4849.62] in the -[4849.62 --> 4849.92] temple. -[4851.36 --> 4852.18] It's the -[4852.18 --> 4852.94] word that -[4852.94 --> 4853.84] we get the -[4853.84 --> 4854.42] church word -[4854.42 --> 4855.40] liturgist -[4855.40 --> 4856.42] or liturgy -[4856.42 --> 4856.86] from. -[4857.66 --> 4858.24] It's the -[4858.24 --> 4858.82] same word -[4858.82 --> 4859.32] that Paul -[4859.32 --> 4860.00] uses of -[4860.00 --> 4860.76] himself in -[4860.76 --> 4861.52] Romans 16 -[4861.52 --> 4862.22] verse 16 -[4862.22 --> 4863.00] when he -[4863.00 --> 4863.74] calls himself -[4863.74 --> 4864.54] a minister -[4864.54 --> 4865.64] of Christ -[4865.64 --> 4866.30] Jesus to -[4866.30 --> 4866.96] the Gentiles -[4866.96 --> 4867.74] because of -[4867.74 --> 4868.38] God's grace. -[4870.26 --> 4870.44] And so -[4870.44 --> 4870.90] here's what -[4870.90 --> 4872.42] I want you -[4872.42 --> 4872.94] to hear as -[4872.94 --> 4873.62] a last word -[4873.62 --> 4874.58] and for our -[4874.58 --> 4875.28] political leaders -[4875.28 --> 4876.32] to hear as -[4876.32 --> 4877.08] a last word. -[4878.14 --> 4879.72] This underscores -[4879.72 --> 4880.38] the point -[4880.38 --> 4881.44] for me that -[4881.44 --> 4882.28] even these -[4882.28 --> 4883.42] secular pagan -[4883.42 --> 4884.24] authorities -[4884.24 --> 4885.56] God uses -[4885.56 --> 4886.28] as his -[4886.28 --> 4886.90] hands and -[4886.90 --> 4887.64] feet to -[4887.64 --> 4888.40] bring peace -[4888.40 --> 4889.12] and order -[4889.12 --> 4889.84] and justice -[4889.84 --> 4890.52] but it -[4890.52 --> 4891.50] also means -[4891.50 --> 4893.68] like pastors -[4893.68 --> 4895.02] of the church -[4895.02 --> 4895.80] like ministers -[4895.80 --> 4896.82] of the church -[4896.82 --> 4897.86] we will be -[4897.86 --> 4898.54] judged more -[4898.54 --> 4899.54] harshly if we -[4899.54 --> 4900.32] abuse that -[4900.32 --> 4900.84] influence -[4900.84 --> 4901.60] if we abuse -[4901.60 --> 4902.28] that power. -[4903.88 --> 4904.56] Governments -[4904.56 --> 4905.16] then -[4905.16 --> 4906.74] who reject -[4906.74 --> 4907.36] God's -[4907.36 --> 4907.84] order -[4907.84 --> 4909.42] are rejecting -[4909.42 --> 4910.38] their purpose -[4910.38 --> 4912.14] and they -[4912.14 --> 4912.46] will have -[4912.46 --> 4912.72] to give -[4912.72 --> 4913.12] account -[4913.12 --> 4914.40] for that -[4914.40 --> 4914.86] rejection. -[4919.30 --> 4920.56] If you -[4920.56 --> 4921.40] want -[4921.40 --> 4922.38] what is -[4922.38 --> 4922.92] best -[4922.92 --> 4923.72] for human -[4923.72 --> 4924.34] flourishing -[4924.34 --> 4925.50] in society -[4925.50 --> 4926.60] you will -[4926.60 --> 4927.52] want to -[4927.52 --> 4928.26] hold our -[4928.26 --> 4928.68] governments -[4928.68 --> 4929.14] to these -[4929.14 --> 4929.92] kinds of -[4929.92 --> 4930.20] account -[4930.20 --> 4930.84] and if you -[4930.84 --> 4931.22] are a -[4931.22 --> 4931.50] political -[4931.50 --> 4931.86] servant -[4931.86 --> 4932.34] if you -[4932.34 --> 4932.60] want -[4932.60 --> 4932.90] what is -[4932.90 --> 4933.16] best -[4933.16 --> 4934.44] for human -[4934.44 --> 4935.00] flourishing -[4935.00 --> 4935.34] you -[4935.34 --> 4936.14] will -[4936.14 --> 4936.92] and ought -[4936.92 --> 4937.44] to come -[4937.44 --> 4937.80] to the -[4937.80 --> 4938.30] word of -[4938.30 --> 4938.56] God -[4938.56 --> 4939.28] which reveals -[4939.28 --> 4939.84] his will -[4939.84 --> 4940.50] his design -[4940.50 --> 4941.08] his purpose -[4941.08 --> 4941.66] his intent -[4941.66 --> 4942.38] for our -[4942.38 --> 4943.16] shared life -[4943.16 --> 4943.62] together -[4943.62 --> 4947.60] and so -[4947.60 --> 4948.34] as citizens -[4948.34 --> 4950.88] and as -[4950.88 --> 4951.48] governments -[4951.48 --> 4953.40] let's -[4953.40 --> 4953.90] together -[4953.90 --> 4955.78] be God's -[4955.78 --> 4956.68] ministers -[4956.68 --> 4958.02] his -[4958.02 --> 4959.48] liturgists -[4959.48 --> 4961.04] of mercy -[4961.04 --> 4962.14] and grace -[4962.14 --> 4963.50] and justice -[4963.50 --> 4965.20] because -[4965.20 --> 4965.70] together -[4965.70 --> 4966.38] that is -[4966.38 --> 4967.18] what we -[4967.18 --> 4967.82] are called -[4967.82 --> 4968.48] to be -[4968.48 --> 4969.16] and that -[4969.16 --> 4969.42] is what -[4969.42 --> 4969.66] we are -[4969.66 --> 4969.90] called -[4969.90 --> 4970.60] to show -[4970.60 --> 4971.32] this -[4971.32 --> 4972.40] world -[4972.40 --> 4974.94] and we -[4974.94 --> 4975.36] know -[4975.36 --> 4976.70] that -[4976.70 --> 4977.68] sharing -[4977.68 --> 4978.20] this -[4978.20 --> 4978.60] living -[4978.60 --> 4979.28] this way -[4979.28 --> 4980.10] and being -[4980.10 --> 4980.98] God's -[4980.98 --> 4982.00] liturgists -[4982.00 --> 4982.36] his -[4982.36 --> 4983.46] ministers -[4983.46 --> 4984.60] for revealing -[4984.60 --> 4985.74] his order -[4985.74 --> 4987.02] and structure -[4987.02 --> 4987.84] to society -[4987.84 --> 4988.48] is a -[4988.48 --> 4988.96] difficult -[4988.96 --> 4989.92] task -[4989.92 --> 4990.60] and so -[4990.60 --> 4991.08] we are -[4991.08 --> 4991.84] so grateful -[4991.84 --> 4992.36] to God -[4992.36 --> 4992.94] for times -[4992.94 --> 4993.46] like this -[4993.46 --> 4993.86] where we can -[4993.86 --> 4994.46] come together -[4994.46 --> 4995.36] at his word -[4995.36 --> 4995.96] and for times -[4995.96 --> 4996.36] like this -[4996.36 --> 4996.74] where we can -[4996.74 --> 4997.58] come to -[4997.58 --> 4998.06] his table -[4998.06 --> 4999.08] and so -[4999.08 --> 4999.40] in a moment -[4999.40 --> 4999.74] I'm going to -[4999.74 --> 5000.00] pray -[5000.00 --> 5000.78] and part -[5000.78 --> 5001.06] of that -[5001.06 --> 5001.48] prayer -[5001.48 --> 5002.60] will shift -[5002.60 --> 5003.28] us from -[5003.28 --> 5003.80] word -[5003.80 --> 5005.06] to table -[5005.06 --> 5005.82] so that -[5005.82 --> 5006.24] we might -[5006.24 --> 5007.38] be nourished -[5007.38 --> 5008.12] by God's -[5008.12 --> 5008.94] call on our -[5008.94 --> 5009.38] lives -[5009.38 --> 5009.72] and that -[5009.72 --> 5010.00] we might -[5010.00 --> 5010.70] be nourished -[5010.70 --> 5011.46] by the -[5011.46 --> 5011.80] spiritual -[5011.80 --> 5012.46] presence of -[5012.46 --> 5012.74] Jesus -[5012.74 --> 5013.18] as we -[5013.18 --> 5013.72] go and -[5013.72 --> 5014.52] live in -[5014.52 --> 5015.02] that -[5015.02 --> 5015.78] call -[5015.78 --> 5017.16] so I -[5017.16 --> 5017.54] invite you -[5017.54 --> 5017.84] to join -[5017.84 --> 5018.30] your head -[5018.30 --> 5018.88] or join -[5018.88 --> 5019.26] your hearts -[5019.26 --> 5019.72] with mine -[5019.72 --> 5020.00] and bow -[5020.00 --> 5020.48] your head -[5020.48 --> 5021.72] in prayer -[5021.72 --> 5022.56] with me -[5022.56 --> 5023.02] let's pray -[5023.02 --> 5027.46] Lord -[5027.46 --> 5028.16] our -[5028.16 --> 5028.96] God -[5028.96 --> 5031.08] we have -[5031.08 --> 5031.54] heard your -[5031.54 --> 5031.88] call -[5031.88 --> 5033.60] we have -[5033.60 --> 5034.26] seen your -[5034.26 --> 5034.78] purpose -[5034.78 --> 5036.28] we come -[5036.28 --> 5036.76] now -[5036.76 --> 5037.48] to your -[5037.48 --> 5037.92] table -[5037.92 --> 5040.64] asking that -[5040.64 --> 5041.18] you would -[5041.18 --> 5042.30] take the -[5042.30 --> 5043.10] truth of -[5043.10 --> 5043.72] your word -[5043.72 --> 5044.34] that was -[5044.34 --> 5045.66] declared here -[5045.66 --> 5046.22] this morning -[5046.22 --> 5046.70] and that you -[5046.70 --> 5047.34] would plant -[5047.34 --> 5048.02] it deep -[5048.02 --> 5049.00] within our -[5049.00 --> 5049.38] hearts -[5049.38 --> 5050.94] that you -[5050.94 --> 5051.38] would take -[5051.38 --> 5052.28] the truth -[5052.28 --> 5053.32] of your -[5053.32 --> 5053.80] word -[5053.80 --> 5055.22] spoken here -[5055.22 --> 5057.04] and that -[5057.04 --> 5057.44] you would -[5057.44 --> 5059.72] open our -[5059.72 --> 5060.60] imaginations -[5060.60 --> 5061.42] to what is -[5061.42 --> 5061.92] possible -[5061.92 --> 5062.68] because of -[5062.68 --> 5062.86] you -[5062.86 --> 5064.32] and so as -[5064.32 --> 5064.60] you have -[5064.60 --> 5065.06] filled us -[5065.06 --> 5065.42] with your -[5065.42 --> 5065.74] word -[5065.74 --> 5066.48] fill us -[5066.48 --> 5066.84] now -[5066.84 --> 5067.52] with your -[5067.52 --> 5068.02] presence -[5068.02 --> 5069.22] in this -[5069.22 --> 5069.80] table -[5069.80 --> 5070.94] that we -[5070.94 --> 5071.36] might go -[5071.36 --> 5071.82] from here -[5071.82 --> 5072.38] sustained -[5072.38 --> 5073.20] and nourished -[5073.20 --> 5073.54] for the -[5073.54 --> 5074.02] journey of -[5074.02 --> 5074.32] faith -[5074.32 --> 5075.08] ahead -[5075.08 --> 5076.10] in Christ -[5076.10 --> 5076.42] Jesus -[5076.42 --> 5076.92] we pray -[5076.92 --> 5077.96] amen -[5079.38 --> 5086.30] just as -[5086.30 --> 5087.04] there are -[5087.04 --> 5088.14] liturgies -[5088.14 --> 5088.62] in -[5088.62 --> 5091.22] spheres -[5091.22 --> 5092.14] of life -[5092.14 --> 5092.72] outside -[5092.72 --> 5093.14] there are -[5093.14 --> 5093.70] liturgies -[5093.70 --> 5094.12] in the -[5094.12 --> 5094.56] work of -[5094.56 --> 5094.82] the church -[5094.82 --> 5095.72] and so -[5095.72 --> 5096.08] we will -[5096.08 --> 5096.84] share words -[5096.84 --> 5097.18] together -[5097.18 --> 5097.60] as we -[5097.60 --> 5097.94] come to -[5097.94 --> 5098.32] the table -[5098.32 --> 5098.64] you will -[5098.64 --> 5099.12] see them -[5099.12 --> 5100.28] behind me -[5100.28 --> 5100.62] as we -[5100.62 --> 5101.18] join our -[5101.18 --> 5101.54] voices -[5101.54 --> 5101.88] with -[5101.88 --> 5102.20] Christians -[5102.20 --> 5102.48] from -[5102.48 --> 5103.06] generations -[5103.06 --> 5103.70] and -[5103.70 --> 5104.08] millennia -[5104.08 --> 5104.48] before -[5104.48 --> 5105.62] proclaiming -[5105.62 --> 5106.12] that this -[5106.12 --> 5106.72] is the -[5106.72 --> 5107.14] Lord's -[5107.14 --> 5107.80] table -[5107.80 --> 5109.08] lift up -[5109.08 --> 5109.22] your -[5109.22 --> 5109.58] hearts -[5109.58 --> 5113.16] let us -[5113.16 --> 5113.38] give -[5113.38 --> 5113.86] thanks -[5113.86 --> 5114.32] to the -[5114.32 --> 5114.58] Lord -[5114.58 --> 5114.74] our -[5114.74 --> 5115.18] God -[5115.18 --> 5119.24] let's -[5119.24 --> 5119.42] pray -[5119.42 --> 5119.82] together -[5119.82 --> 5122.82] with joy -[5122.82 --> 5123.84] we praise -[5123.84 --> 5124.34] you -[5124.34 --> 5124.96] gracious -[5124.96 --> 5125.60] God -[5125.60 --> 5126.60] for you -[5126.60 --> 5126.90] have -[5126.90 --> 5127.46] created -[5127.46 --> 5128.14] heaven -[5128.14 --> 5128.64] and earth -[5128.64 --> 5128.96] you have -[5128.96 --> 5129.54] made us -[5129.54 --> 5130.04] in your -[5130.04 --> 5130.50] image -[5130.50 --> 5131.12] and have -[5131.12 --> 5131.38] kept -[5131.38 --> 5131.68] others -[5131.68 --> 5133.28] when we -[5133.28 --> 5133.76] fell into -[5133.76 --> 5134.06] sin -[5134.06 --> 5136.10] we give -[5136.10 --> 5136.70] you thanks -[5136.70 --> 5137.34] for Jesus -[5137.34 --> 5137.78] Christ -[5137.78 --> 5139.60] who -[5139.60 --> 5140.44] his -[5140.44 --> 5141.02] life -[5141.02 --> 5141.56] death -[5141.56 --> 5141.82] and -[5141.82 --> 5142.30] resurrection -[5142.30 --> 5143.42] to us -[5143.42 --> 5144.20] the way -[5144.20 --> 5144.78] of life -[5144.78 --> 5145.08] ever -[5145.08 --> 5145.92] amen -[5145.92 --> 5150.70] our Lord -[5150.70 --> 5151.00] Jesus -[5151.00 --> 5151.96] before he -[5151.96 --> 5152.58] suffered -[5152.58 --> 5153.82] gave us -[5153.82 --> 5154.58] this memorial -[5154.58 --> 5155.12] of his -[5155.12 --> 5155.70] sacrifice -[5155.70 --> 5156.46] until he -[5156.46 --> 5157.04] comes again -[5157.04 --> 5158.48] the Lord -[5158.48 --> 5158.84] Jesus -[5158.84 --> 5159.98] on the -[5159.98 --> 5160.38] night that -[5160.38 --> 5160.72] he was -[5160.72 --> 5161.14] betrayed -[5161.14 --> 5161.98] took bread -[5161.98 --> 5163.58] and when he -[5163.58 --> 5163.88] had given -[5163.88 --> 5164.38] thanks -[5164.38 --> 5164.88] he broke -[5164.88 --> 5165.26] it and -[5165.26 --> 5165.50] said -[5165.50 --> 5166.16] this -[5166.16 --> 5166.94] is -[5166.94 --> 5167.38] my -[5167.38 --> 5167.82] body -[5167.82 --> 5168.28] which -[5168.28 --> 5168.48] is -[5168.48 --> 5168.94] for you -[5168.94 --> 5169.68] do -[5169.68 --> 5170.10] this -[5170.10 --> 5170.40] in -[5170.40 --> 5170.86] remembrance -[5170.86 --> 5171.92] of me -[5171.92 --> 5173.32] and in -[5173.32 --> 5173.80] the same -[5173.80 --> 5174.20] way -[5174.20 --> 5174.86] after -[5174.86 --> 5175.46] supper -[5175.46 --> 5177.10] he took -[5177.10 --> 5177.52] the cup -[5177.52 --> 5177.80] saying -[5177.80 --> 5178.48] this cup -[5178.48 --> 5179.44] is the -[5179.44 --> 5179.66] new -[5179.66 --> 5180.06] covenant -[5180.06 --> 5180.68] in my -[5180.68 --> 5181.06] blood -[5181.06 --> 5182.00] do -[5182.00 --> 5182.48] this -[5182.48 --> 5182.96] whenever -[5182.96 --> 5183.26] you -[5183.26 --> 5183.56] drink -[5183.56 --> 5183.76] it -[5183.76 --> 5184.30] in -[5184.30 --> 5184.74] remembrance -[5184.74 --> 5185.58] of me -[5185.58 --> 5186.82] for -[5186.82 --> 5187.28] whenever -[5187.28 --> 5187.80] you -[5187.80 --> 5188.18] eat -[5188.18 --> 5188.46] this -[5188.46 --> 5189.10] and -[5189.10 --> 5189.48] drink -[5189.48 --> 5189.78] this -[5189.78 --> 5190.10] cup -[5190.10 --> 5190.34] you -[5190.34 --> 5190.84] proclaim -[5190.84 --> 5191.20] the -[5191.20 --> 5191.62] Lord's -[5191.62 --> 5191.94] death -[5191.94 --> 5192.58] until -[5192.58 --> 5193.18] he -[5193.18 --> 5193.70] comes -[5193.70 --> 5194.30] again -[5194.30 --> 5198.62] this -[5198.62 --> 5199.28] is the -[5199.28 --> 5199.80] mystery -[5199.80 --> 5200.56] of our -[5200.56 --> 5200.96] faith -[5200.96 --> 5202.86] your -[5202.86 --> 5203.24] death -[5203.24 --> 5203.58] oh -[5203.58 --> 5204.06] Christ -[5204.06 --> 5204.38] we -[5204.38 --> 5204.80] proclaim -[5204.80 --> 5206.00] your -[5206.00 --> 5206.52] resurrection -[5206.52 --> 5207.02] we -[5207.02 --> 5207.44] affirm -[5207.44 --> 5207.74] with -[5207.74 --> 5208.10] joy -[5208.10 --> 5209.10] your -[5209.10 --> 5209.56] coming -[5209.56 --> 5209.92] we -[5209.92 --> 5210.28] await -[5210.28 --> 5210.60] with -[5210.60 --> 5210.88] hope -[5210.88 --> 5212.08] glory -[5212.08 --> 5212.72] be to -[5212.72 --> 5213.04] you -[5213.04 --> 5213.36] Lord -[5213.36 --> 5213.74] Jesus -[5213.74 --> 5215.88] church -[5215.88 --> 5216.22] family -[5216.22 --> 5216.64] the Lord -[5216.64 --> 5216.90] has -[5216.90 --> 5217.32] prepared -[5217.32 --> 5217.78] his -[5217.78 --> 5218.18] table -[5218.18 --> 5219.08] for all -[5219.08 --> 5219.56] who love -[5219.56 --> 5219.84] him -[5219.84 --> 5220.14] and for -[5220.14 --> 5220.46] all who -[5220.46 --> 5220.94] trust -[5220.94 --> 5221.70] him -[5221.70 --> 5222.18] in him -[5222.18 --> 5222.64] alone -[5222.64 --> 5223.14] for their -[5223.14 --> 5223.60] salvation -[5223.60 --> 5224.14] and so -[5224.14 --> 5224.84] come to -[5224.84 --> 5225.16] this -[5225.16 --> 5225.52] table -[5225.52 --> 5226.10] you -[5226.10 --> 5226.36] who -[5226.36 --> 5226.68] have -[5226.68 --> 5227.00] much -[5227.00 --> 5227.36] faith -[5227.36 --> 5227.68] and -[5227.68 --> 5227.92] you -[5227.92 --> 5228.16] who -[5228.16 --> 5228.44] would -[5228.44 --> 5228.72] like -[5228.72 --> 5228.86] to -[5228.86 --> 5229.14] have -[5229.14 --> 5229.78] more -[5229.78 --> 5230.90] come -[5230.90 --> 5231.16] to -[5231.16 --> 5231.50] this -[5231.50 --> 5231.88] table -[5231.88 --> 5232.16] you -[5232.16 --> 5232.32] who -[5232.32 --> 5232.96] have -[5232.96 --> 5232.98] been to -[5232.98 --> 5233.14] the -[5233.14 --> 5233.60] sacrament -[5233.60 --> 5234.26] often -[5234.26 --> 5234.70] and you -[5234.70 --> 5234.90] who -[5234.90 --> 5235.10] have -[5235.10 --> 5235.36] not -[5235.36 --> 5235.60] been -[5235.60 --> 5235.84] for -[5235.84 --> 5236.02] a -[5236.02 --> 5236.20] long -[5236.20 --> 5236.56] time -[5236.56 --> 5237.08] come -[5237.08 --> 5237.26] to -[5237.26 --> 5237.46] this -[5237.46 --> 5237.76] table -[5237.76 --> 5238.06] you -[5238.06 --> 5238.32] who -[5238.32 --> 5238.48] have -[5238.48 --> 5238.88] tried -[5238.88 --> 5239.20] to -[5239.20 --> 5239.52] follow -[5239.52 --> 5239.92] Jesus -[5239.92 --> 5240.52] in -[5240.52 --> 5240.80] these -[5240.80 --> 5241.14] days -[5241.14 --> 5241.62] past -[5241.62 --> 5242.22] and -[5242.22 --> 5242.54] you -[5242.54 --> 5242.88] who -[5242.88 --> 5243.26] have -[5243.26 --> 5243.72] failed -[5243.72 --> 5244.38] come -[5244.38 --> 5244.62] to -[5244.62 --> 5244.86] this -[5244.86 --> 5245.20] table -[5245.20 --> 5245.54] because -[5245.54 --> 5245.98] Jesus -[5245.98 --> 5246.52] Christ -[5246.52 --> 5246.80] is -[5246.80 --> 5247.18] raised -[5247.18 --> 5247.60] and -[5247.60 --> 5247.94] Jesus -[5247.94 --> 5248.38] Christ -[5248.38 --> 5248.90] himself -[5248.90 --> 5249.78] invites -[5249.78 --> 5250.22] you -[5250.22 --> 5251.08] here -[5251.08 --> 5252.28] come -[5252.28 --> 5253.02] if you -[5253.02 --> 5253.16] are -[5253.16 --> 5253.68] here -[5253.68 --> 5253.94] in -[5253.94 --> 5254.30] person -[5254.30 --> 5254.56] or -[5254.56 --> 5254.68] if -[5254.68 --> 5254.78] you -[5254.78 --> 5254.90] are -[5254.90 --> 5255.20] joining -[5255.20 --> 5255.58] us -[5255.58 --> 5256.40] online -[5256.40 --> 5256.92] come -[5256.92 --> 5257.60] to -[5257.60 --> 5257.76] the -[5257.76 --> 5258.16] table -[5258.16 --> 5258.82] of -[5258.82 --> 5258.94] the -[5258.94 --> 5259.20] Lord -[5259.20 --> 5259.94] the -[5259.94 --> 5260.16] gift -[5260.16 --> 5260.36] of -[5260.36 --> 5260.68] God -[5260.68 --> 5261.26] for -[5261.26 --> 5261.42] the -[5261.42 --> 5261.74] people -[5261.74 --> 5262.30] of -[5262.30 --> 5262.62] God -[5262.62 --> 5264.74] as -[5264.74 --> 5264.86] we -[5264.86 --> 5265.08] come -[5265.08 --> 5265.46] together -[5265.46 --> 5265.66] to -[5265.66 --> 5265.80] the -[5265.80 --> 5266.12] table -[5266.12 --> 5267.04] we -[5267.04 --> 5267.28] do -[5267.28 --> 5267.58] that -[5267.58 --> 5268.62] by -[5268.62 --> 5269.04] gathering -[5269.04 --> 5269.60] around -[5269.60 --> 5269.92] in -[5269.92 --> 5270.26] groups -[5270.26 --> 5270.50] and -[5270.50 --> 5270.64] so -[5270.64 --> 5270.80] we -[5270.80 --> 5270.96] have -[5270.96 --> 5271.40] ushers -[5271.40 --> 5271.64] who -[5271.64 --> 5271.78] will -[5271.78 --> 5272.00] tell -[5272.00 --> 5272.18] you -[5272.18 --> 5272.40] when -[5272.40 --> 5272.56] to -[5272.56 --> 5272.78] come -[5272.78 --> 5273.00] up -[5273.00 --> 5273.56] and -[5273.56 --> 5273.82] then -[5273.82 --> 5274.32] you -[5274.32 --> 5274.46] will -[5274.46 --> 5274.64] come -[5274.64 --> 5274.76] up -[5274.76 --> 5274.86] to -[5274.86 --> 5274.98] the -[5274.98 --> 5275.24] table -[5275.24 --> 5275.44] you -[5275.44 --> 5275.64] will -[5275.64 --> 5276.22] gather -[5276.22 --> 5276.46] in -[5276.46 --> 5276.60] a -[5276.60 --> 5276.88] circle -[5276.88 --> 5277.22] here -[5277.22 --> 5278.14] we -[5278.14 --> 5278.30] will -[5278.30 --> 5278.58] serve -[5278.58 --> 5278.94] as -[5278.94 --> 5279.10] you -[5279.10 --> 5279.66] receive -[5279.66 --> 5280.22] and -[5280.22 --> 5280.64] pass -[5280.64 --> 5280.84] the -[5280.84 --> 5281.22] bread -[5281.22 --> 5281.54] we -[5281.54 --> 5281.92] invite -[5281.92 --> 5282.08] you -[5282.08 --> 5282.28] to -[5282.28 --> 5282.58] say -[5282.58 --> 5282.82] the -[5282.82 --> 5283.16] body -[5283.16 --> 5283.40] of -[5283.40 --> 5283.84] Christ -[5283.84 --> 5284.24] given -[5284.24 --> 5284.50] for -[5284.50 --> 5284.78] you -[5284.78 --> 5285.62] as -[5285.62 --> 5285.76] you -[5285.76 --> 5286.10] receive -[5286.10 --> 5286.68] pass -[5286.68 --> 5286.88] the -[5286.88 --> 5287.20] juice -[5287.20 --> 5287.42] we -[5287.42 --> 5287.74] invite -[5287.74 --> 5287.90] you -[5287.90 --> 5288.04] to -[5288.04 --> 5288.26] say -[5288.26 --> 5288.46] the -[5288.46 --> 5288.74] blood -[5288.74 --> 5288.98] of -[5288.98 --> 5289.36] Christ -[5289.36 --> 5290.14] shed -[5290.14 --> 5290.34] for -[5290.34 --> 5290.64] you -[5290.64 --> 5292.02] we -[5292.02 --> 5292.56] mark -[5292.56 --> 5292.96] our -[5292.96 --> 5293.46] coming -[5293.46 --> 5294.00] together -[5294.00 --> 5294.42] as -[5294.42 --> 5294.62] a -[5294.62 --> 5295.06] family -[5295.06 --> 5295.70] around -[5295.70 --> 5296.02] the -[5296.02 --> 5296.44] gospel -[5296.44 --> 5297.20] because -[5297.20 --> 5297.60] of -[5297.60 --> 5297.74] the -[5297.74 --> 5298.20] person -[5298.20 --> 5298.78] of -[5298.78 --> 5299.04] Jesus -[5299.04 --> 5299.48] Christ -[5299.48 --> 5300.44] for -[5300.44 --> 5300.56] the -[5300.56 --> 5300.84] first -[5300.84 --> 5301.16] table -[5301.16 --> 5301.42] I'd -[5301.42 --> 5301.56] like -[5301.56 --> 5301.76] to -[5301.76 --> 5302.24] invite -[5302.24 --> 5303.04] all -[5303.04 --> 5303.26] those -[5303.26 --> 5303.40] who -[5303.40 --> 5303.62] are -[5303.62 --> 5305.12] different -[5305.12 --> 5307.48] ways -[5307.48 --> 5308.14] that -[5308.14 --> 5308.30] they -[5308.30 --> 5308.54] might -[5308.54 --> 5308.88] come -[5308.88 --> 5309.70] and -[5309.70 --> 5309.90] be -[5309.90 --> 5310.20] served -[5310.20 --> 5310.62] first -[5310.62 --> 5310.98] and -[5310.98 --> 5311.16] then -[5311.16 --> 5311.70] facilitate -[5311.70 --> 5312.30] our -[5312.30 --> 5313.34] serving -[5313.34 --> 5313.70] one -[5313.70 --> 5314.04] another -[5314.04 --> 5314.50] as -[5314.50 --> 5314.66] we -[5314.66 --> 5314.82] go -[5314.82 --> 5315.20] forward -[5315.20 --> 5315.66] and -[5315.66 --> 5315.90] so -[5315.90 --> 5316.26] worship -[5316.26 --> 5316.76] volunteers -[5316.76 --> 5316.96] would -[5316.96 --> 5317.06] you -[5317.06 --> 5317.30] come -[5317.30 --> 5317.46] to -[5317.46 --> 5317.58] the -[5317.58 --> 5317.76] front -[5347.30 --> 5348.26] else -[5348.26 --> 5348.94] now -[5348.94 --> 5349.24] and -[5349.24 --> 5349.52] especially -[5349.52 --> 5349.78] you -[5377.30 --> 5407.28] Thank you. -[5407.30 --> 5437.28] Thank you. -[5437.30 --> 5467.28] Thank you. -[5467.30 --> 5497.28] Thank you. -[5497.30 --> 5499.30] Thank you. -[5527.30 --> 5529.30] Thank you. -[5557.30 --> 5559.30] Thank you. -[5587.30 --> 5592.04] They shall live forever. -[5593.30 --> 5597.30] They shall live forever. -[5597.30 --> 5603.30] And I will raise them up. -[5603.30 --> 5609.30] And I will raise them up. -[5609.30 --> 5621.30] And I will raise them up on the last day. -[5621.30 --> 5627.30] I am the resurrection. -[5627.30 --> 5633.30] I am the light. -[5633.30 --> 5635.30] They shall live forever. -[5635.30 --> 5637.30] And I will raise them up. -[5637.30 --> 5641.30] And I will raise them up. -[5641.30 --> 5647.30] Even if they die. -[5647.30 --> 5649.30] They shall live forever. -[5649.30 --> 5653.30] And I will raise them up. -[5653.30 --> 5657.30] And I will raise them up. -[5657.30 --> 5659.30] And I will raise them up. -[5659.30 --> 5661.30] And I will raise them up. -[5661.30 --> 5675.30] And I will raise them up on the last day. -[5675.30 --> 5681.30] And I will raise them up. -[5681.30 --> 5683.30] And I will raise them up. -[5683.30 --> 5685.30] And I will raise them up. -[5685.30 --> 5699.30] And I will raise them up on the last day. -[5699.30 --> 5701.30] And I will raise them up. -[5701.30 --> 5705.30] And I will raise them up. -[5705.30 --> 5706.36] And I will raise them up. -[5706.36 --> 5709.30] Let me, now. -[5709.30 --> 5716.30] Thank you. -[5716.30 --> 5722.18] I -[5722.18 --> 5731.14] All who are thirsty -[5731.14 --> 5737.72] All who are weak -[5737.72 --> 5740.76] Come to the fountain -[5740.76 --> 5747.90] Dip your heart in the stream of life -[5747.90 --> 5750.46] Let the pain and sorrow -[5750.46 --> 5755.74] Be washed away -[5755.74 --> 5760.12] In the waves of His mercy -[5760.12 --> 5766.46] As He cries out to Thee -[5767.28 --> 5774.46] Pleasing come Lord Jesus come -[5774.46 --> 5783.84] Come Lord Jesus come -[5783.84 --> 5787.96] All who are thirsty -[5787.96 --> 5793.74] All who are weak -[5793.74 --> 5798.02] Come to the fountain -[5798.02 --> 5804.58] Give your heart in the stream of life -[5804.58 --> 5807.02] Let the pain and the sorrow -[5807.02 --> 5812.02] Be washed away -[5812.02 --> 5817.30] In the waves of His mercy -[5817.30 --> 5823.40] As He cries out to Thee -[5823.40 --> 5830.68] We sing Holy Spirit come -[5830.68 --> 5838.68] Holy Spirit come -[5838.68 --> 5850.06] Come Lord Jesus come -[5850.06 --> 5858.96] Come Lord Jesus come -[5858.96 --> 5869.24] Come Lord Jesus come -[5869.24 --> 5878.24] Come Lord Jesus come -[5878.24 --> 5894.96] To the Christ -[5894.96 --> 5896.96] Amen. -[5924.96 --> 5942.96] His own betray, the sin of man and wrath of God has been on Jesus' name. -[5942.96 --> 5958.96] Silent as He stood accused, beaten, mocked, and swore. -[5958.96 --> 5971.96] Now into the Father's will, He took a crown of gold. -[5972.96 --> 5984.96] Oh, that broken cross, my salvation, where your love poured out over me. -[5984.96 --> 5990.96] Now my soul cries out, Amen. -[5991.96 --> 5999.96] Praise and honor unto Thee. -[5999.96 --> 6029.96] -[6029.96 --> 6040.96] Now my dead cross, my salvation, where your love poured out over me. -[6040.96 --> 6046.96] Now my soul cries out, Amen. -[6047.96 --> 6053.96] Praise and honor unto Thee. -[6053.96 --> 6070.96] Now my debt is paid, it is paid in full, by the precious blood that my Jesus spilled. -[6070.96 --> 6077.96] Now the curse of sin has no hold on Thee. -[6077.96 --> 6083.96] Whom the Son sets free, O it's free indeed. -[6083.96 --> 6096.96] Now my debt is paid, it is paid in full, by the precious blood that my Jesus spilled. -[6096.96 --> 6102.96] Now the curse of sin has no hold on me. -[6102.96 --> 6108.96] The Son sets free, O it's free indeed. -[6108.96 --> 6121.96] Oh, that broken cross, my salvation, where your love poured out over me. -[6121.96 --> 6128.96] Now my soul cries out, Hallelujah. -[6128.96 --> 6134.96] Praise and honor run to Thee. -[6134.96 --> 6144.96] See the stone is rolled away. -[6144.96 --> 6150.96] Behold the empty to Thee. -[6150.96 --> 6153.96] Hallelujah. -[6153.96 --> 6161.96] Now God be praised, He's risen from the grave. -[6161.96 --> 6174.96] Now the broken cross, my salvation, where your love poured out over me. -[6174.96 --> 6179.96] Now my soul cries out, Hallelujah. -[6179.96 --> 6189.96] Praise and honor run to Thee. -[6189.96 --> 6194.96] Praise and honor run to Thee. -[6194.96 --> 6204.96] Praise and honor run to Thee. -[6204.96 --> 6228.42] Our little glory in my Redeemer, -[6228.42 --> 6233.42] Whose priceless blood has ransomed me, -[6233.42 --> 6239.10] Mine was the sin that drove the bitter hills, -[6239.48 --> 6242.86] And hung him on that judgment tree. -[6243.88 --> 6247.82] I will glory in my Redeemer, -[6248.36 --> 6252.64] Who crushed the power of sin and death, -[6252.64 --> 6258.98] My only Savior before the Holy Judge, -[6259.40 --> 6262.30] The man who is my righteousness, -[6263.42 --> 6267.00] The man who is my righteousness, -[6267.00 --> 6279.16] I will glory in my Redeemer, -[6279.16 --> 6284.16] My life he bought, my love he owns, -[6284.16 --> 6289.16] I have no wrongings for another, -[6289.96 --> 6293.46] Unsatisfied in him alone. -[6294.14 --> 6297.96] I will glory in my Redeemer, -[6297.96 --> 6302.80] His faithfulness my standing face, -[6303.16 --> 6308.16] The foes are mighty and rush upon me, -[6308.16 --> 6312.74] My feet are firm held by His grace, -[6313.74 --> 6317.74] My feet are firm held by His grace, -[6317.74 --> 6328.32] I will glory in my Redeemer, -[6328.32 --> 6328.94] I will glory in my Redeemer, -[6328.94 --> 6333.32] Who carries me on eagles' ways, -[6333.32 --> 6338.60] He crowns my life with love and kindness, -[6338.60 --> 6342.48] His triumph song I'll never sing, -[6342.48 --> 6348.06] I will glory in my Redeemer, -[6348.06 --> 6352.50] Who waits for me at gates of gold, -[6352.50 --> 6354.86] And when He calls me, -[6354.86 --> 6357.64] It will be paradise, -[6358.64 --> 6362.22] His face forever to behold, -[6363.14 --> 6366.80] His face forever to behold, -[6366.80 --> 6371.56] I will glory in my Redeemer, -[6372.06 --> 6376.44] Who waits for me at gates of gold, -[6376.44 --> 6378.88] And when He calls me, -[6378.88 --> 6383.10] It will be paradise, -[6383.10 --> 6386.88] His face forever to behold, -[6388.08 --> 6391.84] His face forever to behold. -[6406.44 --> 6411.92] As you go, -[6411.92 --> 6414.68] Know that God goes with you, -[6414.86 --> 6417.88] And that part of our going -[6417.88 --> 6421.92] Is to participate in seeing humanity flourish, -[6422.60 --> 6424.76] Is to participate in the systems -[6424.76 --> 6428.44] And the spheres that God has granted to us -[6428.44 --> 6429.78] To see that come, -[6429.92 --> 6433.18] And so go with His blessing, -[6433.86 --> 6435.64] Receive the blessing of God. -[6436.44 --> 6438.98] God, go before you to lead you, -[6439.44 --> 6441.44] God, go behind you to protect you, -[6441.44 --> 6443.82] God, go beneath you to support you, -[6443.92 --> 6446.64] And God, go beside you to befriend you. -[6447.06 --> 6448.36] Do not be afraid. -[6448.66 --> 6450.62] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[6450.74 --> 6452.42] Do not be afraid, -[6452.88 --> 6457.74] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[6458.84 --> 6459.20] Amen. -[6459.20 --> 6459.32] Amen. -[6459.32 --> 6461.56] Amen. -[6462.00 --> 6462.62] Amen. -[6462.62 --> 6463.38] Amen. -[6467.80 --> 6467.88] Thank you. -[6468.24 --> 6468.46] вкус, -[6468.46 --> 6469.06] ąż, -[6469.06 --> 6469.34] pére, -[6469.36 --> 6470.24] 從 -[6470.24 --> 6471.24] Amen. -[6500.24 --> 6502.24] Amen. -[6530.24 --> 6532.24] Amen. -[6560.24 --> 6562.24] Amen. -[6590.24 --> 6592.24] Amen. -[6620.24 --> 6622.24] Amen. -[6650.24 --> 6652.24] Amen. -[6680.24 --> 6682.24] Amen. -[6710.24 --> 6712.24] Amen. -[6740.24 --> 6742.24] Amen. -[6770.24 --> 6772.24] Amen. -[6800.24 --> 6802.24] Amen. -[6830.24 --> 6832.24] Amen. -[6860.24 --> 6862.24] Amen. -[6890.24 --> 6892.24] Amen. -[6920.24 --> 6922.24] Amen. -[6950.24 --> 6952.24] Amen. -[6980.24 --> 6982.24] Amen. -[7010.24 --> 7012.24] Amen. -[7040.24 --> 7042.24] Amen. -[7070.24 --> 7072.24] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, March 17, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, March 17, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ab2234f1d78e4df776d2d7624ad8fdb8e0369d33..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, March 17, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,104 +0,0 @@ -• The story of Jesus' crucifixion and death -• The crowd's mockery and the soldiers' actions -• Jesus carrying his cross to Calvary -• His sacrifice and shedding of blood for redemption -• His resurrection and the angels' announcement -• The promise of hope and new life through faith in Jesus -• The idea that there is nothing better than God -• References to worship, praise, and the church waiting for Jesus' return -• Reference to the Mexico team's successful launch -• Invitation to stand for God's blessing/greeting -• Reading from Revelation, chapter 1 -• Call to worship from Isaiah 25 -• Prayer and worship service begins -• Songs of praise and worship are sung -• References to a new revival and rising generation -• Worship and praise -• Song of ages sung by generations -• God's name is the highest and greatest -• Creation cries out in worship -• Forgiveness and redemption through Jesus -• Mission to proclaim God's name -• Call to prayer and intercession for transformation and empowerment -• Prolonged chanting and singing with lyrics referencing God's love and redemption -• Discussion of a storm, guilt, and pardon -• Reference to an angel song and God's enduring love -• Chanting continues with repetition of phrases such as "It is well" and "Through it all" -• Mention of a request for the next song and a brief pause -• Additional chanting and singing with similar lyrics -• A deacon introduces himself and mentions an offering for the Benevolence Fund -• Introduction to worship time and children's stories -• Discussion of the book of John and God's extravagant story for us all -• Prayer led by Eric, an elder at Emanuel -• Announcement of John Coning's recovery from cancer -• Gratitude for a beautiful day and the changing of seasons -• Prayers for specific individuals and families facing challenges (Rachel, Matthew, Kobe DeBoersep) -• Requests for safety and guidance for those on missions trips or vacation -• Blessings for church staff and volunteers -• Prayer for leaders to come forward in the church -• Reflections on trust and obedience in times of difficulty -• The speaker shares a personal anecdote about a stranger paying for their drinks at a cafe. -• The passage to be discussed is Romans chapter 13, verses 8-10. -• The main topic of the passage is love and how it fulfills the law. -• The big idea from the passage is that it is impossible to love others too much. -• The text repeatedly calls readers to love one another and gives instructions on how to love without causing harm. -• Definition of agape love: unconditional, self-sacrificing, all-encompassing -• Agape love is about valuing and holding others in high esteem -• Jesus' parable of the Good Samaritan illustrates agape love in action -• Romans answers the question "who we are to love" by instructing to love everyone with agape love -• Paul compares the love we are to show to a debt that cannot be repaid -• The reasons for showing agape love to everyone include: - • It's impossible to love others too much - • We owe it as a debt that cannot be repaid -• The debt of love to others is a constant and continuous obligation -• This debt can never be settled or paid back -• Love is the only thing that cannot be repaid -• It is an ongoing and permanent obligation -• We can never stop loving or say we have done enough -• Love must undergird everything we do -• The debt of love is ongoing and must be repaid -• Love fulfills the law, as seen in Romans 13:8-10 -• Law and love are not enemies, but are united in Jesus Christ -• Separating law from love can mislead people into thinking they are either liberal or conservative -• The reality is that law and love cannot be separated, and are intertwined in their relationship with God. -• The law and love are not enemies, but work together -• Love fulfills the law -• The greatest commandment is to love the Lord and one's neighbor (Matthew 23:37-40) -• Without Jesus, the law is powerless and love is directionless -• Adultery, murder, stealing, and covetousness are examples of commands that can be followed when we love -• Commands can be rewritten in a positive way by asking how they would look if we loved others -• The Heidelberg Catechism provides answers to big questions of faith using scripture -• The command to not commit adultery is more than just abstaining from physical relations, it's about constantly serving and caring for one's spouse. -• Following the command to not kill means not only refraining from murder, but also actively loving, being patient, peaceful, gentle, merciful, and friendly towards those you dislike. -• The command to not steal is more than just refusing to take what doesn't belong to you, it's about actively giving away your possessions, money, time, and energy to bless others. -• Following the law of love means more than just refraining from sinning against brothers and sisters in Christ, but also actively looking for ways to bless and serve each other. -• The concept of serving one another is a key aspect of showing love in commands -• Love does no harm to a neighbor, as stated in verse 10 -• The phrase "do no harm" can be misinterpreted or stretched beyond its original meaning in Paul's letter -• The Greek original of the text has poetic and artistic qualities that are lost in translation -• The word "kakos" (evilness or wickedness) is more nuanced than a simple "do no harm" -• Modern culture often takes this concept too far, becoming overly individualistic and dismissive of others' perspectives. -• The relationship between loving someone and potentially offending them in the process -• Distinguishing between harming others through sin and being tactless or crass when correcting them -• The importance of speaking truth with love, patience, kindness, humility, and gentleness -• Understanding that loving one's neighbor includes calling out sin and risking offense -• Recognizing the difference between harm caused by sin and harm caused by being tactless in correction -• Calling to show unconditional love to everyone, including friends, family, care groups, government leaders, enemies, homeless people, and church members -• Realizing the enormity of this calling is overwhelming and impossible for humans on their own -• Christ's perfect, self-sacrificing, and all-encompassing love as the model for human behavior -• Christ's life, death, and resurrection as a demonstration of his love and its ability to conquer sin and death -• Redemption in Christ through his love, granting freedom, grace, and mercy -• Becoming co-heirs with Christ, clothed in righteousness, and viewed by God as pure and spotless -• The call to love those around us is overwhelming -• The gift of grace, mercy, and righteousness is more overwhelming than our debt to love others -• We can never repay the debt that has been paid for us in Christ Jesus -• Our calling is to show others the love of Christ, not for salvation but because we are already saved -• Christ is the means by which we can love those around us -• Christ is present in all aspects of our lives and is the reason we can love -• We are free to love as a response to the love of Christ -• Love is impossible to give too much of -• Prayers for love and devotion to shine out of believers in their daily lives -• Prayer for those who are serving on missions teams abroad -• Reflections on the love and sacrifice of Christ -• Invitation for prayer from those with yellow name tags -• Blessing from Numbers 6, given as a priestly blessing \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, March 17, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, March 17, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c87939600fc7ec44dfec10f23342fea1a3cfe5d9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, March 17, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1768 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 7.28] So he let those soldiers take him in -[7.28 --> 13.50] As his friend betrayed him with a kiss -[13.50 --> 19.26] And there before the mocking crowd -[19.26 --> 25.62] Like a lamb to the slaughtered maker's town -[25.62 --> 31.08] And he carried that cross to Calvary -[31.08 --> 37.50] And he shed his blood to set us free -[37.50 --> 43.34] As the nails weeding and the sky were dark -[43.34 --> 49.60] The redemption of the world was on his heart -[49.60 --> 54.90] Friday's good, good Sunday is coming -[54.90 --> 61.24] Don't lose hope, good Sunday is coming -[61.24 --> 67.24] Devil, you're done, you better start running -[67.24 --> 72.90] Friday's good, good Sunday is coming -[72.90 --> 85.34] Then he breathed his last and bowed his head -[85.34 --> 91.24] The Son of God and man was dead -[91.24 --> 97.58] With bloody hands, tears on their face -[97.58 --> 103.50] They laid him down inside that grave -[103.50 --> 106.72] But that wasn't the end -[106.72 --> 109.84] That wasn't the end -[109.84 --> 112.30] That wasn't the end -[112.30 --> 115.26] Let me tell you what happened next -[115.26 --> 121.26] The women came before the dawn -[121.26 --> 126.60] To find that stone already gone -[126.60 --> 133.28] When they looked inside the angels said -[133.28 --> 138.62] Why are you looking for the living among the dead? -[138.62 --> 139.62] He's alive -[139.62 --> 140.96] He's alive -[140.96 --> 141.96] He's alive -[141.96 --> 142.96] Hallelujah -[142.96 --> 143.96] He's alive -[143.96 --> 145.96] Give him praise -[145.96 --> 146.90] Lift him hack -[146.90 --> 147.98] Hallelujah -[147.98 --> 148.92] He's alive -[148.92 --> 150.92] He's alive -[150.92 --> 151.98] He's alive -[151.98 --> 152.66] He's alive -[153.30 --> 154.28] Hallelujah -[154.28 --> 156.36] He's alive -[156.36 --> 157.10] Give him praise -[157.10 --> 159.52] Lift him hack -[159.52 --> 160.68] Hallelujah -[160.68 --> 162.46] He's alive -[162.46 --> 168.96] Hallelujah, Hallelujah -[168.96 --> 175.00] Don't lose hope, this Sunday is coming -[175.00 --> 180.96] Hallelujah, Hallelujah -[180.96 --> 193.16] Now Jesus reigns upon the throne -[193.16 --> 199.16] Our heaven sings to Him alone -[199.16 --> 205.60] We watch and wait like a bride for a groom -[205.60 --> 211.22] Oh church arise, He's coming soon -[211.22 --> 223.14] I searched the world -[223.14 --> 228.84] But it couldn't fill me -[228.84 --> 235.86] Melted empty prayers, treasures of faith -[235.86 --> 238.46] Are never enough -[238.46 --> 243.58] Then You came along -[243.58 --> 248.84] And put me back together -[248.84 --> 256.24] And every desire is now satisfied -[256.24 --> 259.46] Here in Your love -[259.46 --> 267.62] Oh there's nothing better than You -[267.62 --> 272.66] There's nothing better than You -[272.66 --> 274.66] Lord there's nothing -[274.66 --> 279.66] Nothing is better than You -[279.66 --> 284.48] Oh, yes I know it's true -[284.48 --> 286.66] Come on, talk -[286.66 --> 287.34] Hey -[287.34 --> 290.10] I'm not afraid -[290.10 --> 295.66] To show You my weakness -[295.66 --> 299.66] My failures and flaws -[299.66 --> 302.38] Lord You've seen them all -[302.38 --> 306.06] And You still call me friends -[306.06 --> 310.66] Cause the God of the mountains -[310.66 --> 315.66] Is the God of the valleys -[315.66 --> 320.62] There's another place -[320.62 --> 322.62] Your mercy and grace -[322.62 --> 323.16] Your mercy and grace -[323.16 --> 327.62] Won't find me again -[327.62 --> 329.10] Come on now -[329.10 --> 334.56] Oh there's nothing better than You -[334.56 --> 337.62] There's nothing, Lord -[337.62 --> 339.62] There's nothing, Lord -[339.62 --> 341.62] Oh there's nothing -[341.62 --> 346.62] Nothing is better than You -[346.62 --> 348.62] I know it's true -[348.62 --> 350.62] Oh there's nothing -[350.62 --> 351.62] Oh there's nothing -[351.62 --> 352.62] Somebody testify -[352.62 --> 353.62] Somebody testify -[353.62 --> 354.62] Better than You -[354.62 --> 356.62] Oh there's nothing -[356.62 --> 357.62] Oh there's nothing -[357.62 --> 358.62] Nothing more -[358.62 --> 359.62] Better than You -[359.62 --> 361.62] Oh there's nothing -[361.62 --> 362.62] Oh there's nothing -[362.62 --> 366.62] Nothing is better than You -[366.62 --> 371.62] Hey, he's never made a way for You -[371.62 --> 372.62] I want you to sing this -[372.62 --> 374.62] Come on, set up the roof off -[374.62 --> 379.62] You turn born into dancing -[379.62 --> 384.62] You give beauty for ashes -[384.62 --> 389.62] You turn shame into glory -[389.62 --> 394.62] You're the only one who cares -[394.62 --> 395.62] Come on -[395.62 --> 397.62] Come on -[397.62 --> 398.62] Come on -[398.62 --> 399.62] Come on -[399.62 --> 400.62] You turn born into dancing -[400.62 --> 402.62] Come on -[402.62 --> 403.62] Come on -[403.62 --> 404.62] Come on -[404.62 --> 405.62] Come on -[405.62 --> 406.62] You turn born into dancing -[406.62 --> 408.62] You give beauty for ashes -[408.62 --> 409.62] Come on -[409.62 --> 410.62] Come on -[410.62 --> 411.62] You turn shame into glory -[411.62 --> 412.62] Come on -[412.62 --> 422.62] only -[432.38 --> 440.62] you're the only one -[442.62 --> 452.62] you're the only one -[452.62 --> 458.62] you're the only one -[458.62 --> 464.62] you're the only one -[464.62 --> 476.62] oh -[476.62 --> 486.62] nothing -[486.62 --> 488.62] nothing -[488.62 --> 490.62] nothing -[490.62 --> 494.62] you turn bones into -[494.62 --> 496.62] worries -[496.62 --> 498.62] you turn seas -[498.62 --> 500.62] into highways -[500.62 --> 504.62] you're the only one -[504.62 --> 506.62] you care -[506.62 --> 508.62] you turn -[508.62 --> 510.62] bases -[510.62 --> 512.62] you turn bones into -[512.62 --> 514.62] an army -[514.62 --> 516.62] you turn bones into -[516.62 --> 518.62] armies -[518.62 --> 520.62] you turn seas -[520.62 --> 522.62] you turn seas -[522.62 --> 524.62] you're the only one -[524.62 --> 526.62] who cares -[526.62 --> 528.62] you're the only one -[528.62 --> 530.62] you're the only one -[530.62 --> 532.62] you're the only one -[532.62 --> 534.62] you're the only one -[534.62 --> 536.62] who -[536.62 --> 538.62] good morning everyone -[538.62 --> 544.62] now we're awake -[544.62 --> 548.62] microphones and I don't mix very well -[548.62 --> 550.62] that's what I've learned in my life -[550.62 --> 552.62] good morning everyone -[552.62 --> 554.62] it's good to see you here this morning -[554.62 --> 556.62] on this I don't know -[556.62 --> 558.62] first Sunday of spring break for many of the students -[558.62 --> 560.62] here I've got one quick announcement -[560.62 --> 562.62] before we begin today and that's just to -[562.62 --> 564.62] inform you all that the Mexico -[564.62 --> 566.62] team took off yesterday -[566.62 --> 568.62] they launched from this church -[568.62 --> 570.62] at 7 a.m. they arrived in Mexico -[570.62 --> 572.62] safe and sound last night -[572.62 --> 574.62] and they are on their way to church -[574.62 --> 576.62] in fact they're probably starting church -[576.62 --> 578.62] right now as well in Tijuana, Mexico -[578.62 --> 580.62] so they're there doing their thing and that's very good news -[580.62 --> 584.62] today we are going to be continuing our sermon series -[584.62 --> 586.62] through Romans we're going to of course -[586.62 --> 588.62] lift up our Lord in praise -[588.62 --> 590.62] and so I invite you now to stand -[590.62 --> 592.62] and hear God's blessing for us -[592.62 --> 594.62] this morning or God's greeting -[594.62 --> 596.62] sorry for us this morning -[596.62 --> 598.62] God's greeting today -[598.62 --> 600.62] comes from Revelation -[600.62 --> 602.62] chapter 1 where it says -[602.62 --> 604.62] grace and peace to you -[604.62 --> 606.62] from him who is and who was -[606.62 --> 608.62] and who is to come and from the -[608.62 --> 610.62] heaven spirits before his throne -[610.62 --> 612.62] and from Jesus Christ who is -[612.62 --> 614.62] the faithful witness the firstborn -[614.62 --> 616.62] of the dead and the ruler of -[616.62 --> 618.62] the kings of the earth -[618.62 --> 620.62] amen as God has greeted us -[620.62 --> 622.62] this morning please take a moment -[622.62 --> 624.62] to greet those around you as well -[638.62 --> 642.62] good morning our call to worship this morning comes from Isaiah -[642.62 --> 650.62] 25 -[650.62 --> 663.94] Good morning. -[664.86 --> 668.88] Our call to worship this morning comes from Isaiah 25. -[670.32 --> 671.92] Lord, you are my God. -[672.36 --> 674.80] I will exalt you and praise your name. -[674.80 --> 678.66] For in perfect faithfulness you have done wonderful things. -[678.66 --> 680.94] Things planned long ago. -[681.72 --> 685.40] Please join me in prayer as we begin a time of worship together this morning. -[686.86 --> 690.76] Heavenly Father, as we come before you today as a family of believers, -[691.10 --> 694.80] we are grateful for the privilege of gathering in your presence. -[695.62 --> 702.50] As we begin this time of worship, may our unity in you be a reflection of your presence here among us. -[703.30 --> 705.50] Bless each soul present here. -[705.50 --> 709.00] And may our hearts, lifted in worship, be pleasing to you. -[709.50 --> 711.54] In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. -[711.86 --> 712.88] Let's worship together. -[712.88 --> 724.88] I see the King of glory. -[724.88 --> 725.88] Amen. -[725.88 --> 726.32] Amen. -[726.32 --> 727.10] Amen. -[727.10 --> 737.42] I see the King of glory. -[737.42 --> 743.06] Coming on the clouds with fire -[743.06 --> 745.86] The whole world's shame -[745.86 --> 749.62] The whole world's shame -[749.62 --> 759.20] Seek His love and mercy -[759.20 --> 764.68] Washing over all our sin -[764.68 --> 770.86] The people sing, the people sing -[770.86 --> 776.38] Hosanna, Hosanna -[776.38 --> 780.70] Hosanna in the highest -[780.70 --> 787.68] Hosanna, Hosanna -[787.68 --> 792.28] Hosanna in the highest -[794.68 --> 798.00] Hosanna in the highest -[798.00 --> 800.86] I see a generation -[800.86 --> 806.66] Rising up to take their place -[806.66 --> 809.14] With self-attentance -[809.14 --> 812.92] With self-attentance -[812.92 --> 818.10] I see a new revival -[818.10 --> 823.10] Soon as we pray and sing -[823.10 --> 825.84] We're on our knees -[825.84 --> 828.92] We're on our knees -[828.92 --> 834.10] Hosanna, Hosanna -[834.10 --> 836.70] Hosanna, Hosanna -[836.70 --> 838.42] Hosanna in the highest -[838.42 --> 845.48] Hosanna, Hosanna -[845.48 --> 850.10] Hosanna in the highest -[850.10 --> 861.34] Hosanna, Hosanna -[861.34 --> 862.16] Hosanna, Hosanna -[862.16 --> 863.72] Hosanna, Hosanna -[863.72 --> 864.38] Hosanna, Hosanna -[864.38 --> 865.96] Hosanna, Hosanna -[865.96 --> 867.96] Open out my eyes -[867.96 --> 870.22] To the plains of sea -[870.22 --> 874.48] Show me how to love I live -[874.48 --> 878.64] And love with me -[878.64 --> 884.28] And bring my honor, Rachel -[884.28 --> 891.70] Everything I am for your kingdom's power -[891.70 --> 897.48] As I walk the earth into eternity -[897.48 --> 911.30] Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna -[911.30 --> 920.66] Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna -[920.66 --> 922.66] Oh -[950.66 --> 952.66] Oh -[980.66 --> 982.66] Oh -[1010.66 --> 1012.66] Oh -[1040.66 --> 1042.66] Oh -[1070.66 --> 1072.66] Oh -[1100.66 --> 1102.66] Oh -[1130.66 --> 1132.66] Oh -[1160.66 --> 1162.66] Oh -[1162.66 --> 1164.66] Oh -[1164.66 --> 1178.66] Thousand generations falling down in worship to sing the song of ages to the Lamb. -[1178.66 --> 1192.66] And all who come before us and all who will believe will sing the song of ages to the Lamb. -[1192.66 --> 1205.66] Your name is the highest, your name is the greatest, your name stands above the wall. -[1205.66 --> 1220.66] All clothes and dominions, all powers and positions, your name stands above the wall and the angels cry. -[1220.66 --> 1233.66] Holy, all creation cries. Holy, you are lifted high. -[1233.66 --> 1240.66] Holy, holy forever. -[1240.66 --> 1255.66] And if you've been forgiven, and if you've been redeemed, sing the song forever to the Lamb. -[1255.66 --> 1268.66] And if you walk in freedom, and if you've been His name, sing the song forever to the Lamb. -[1268.66 --> 1270.66] When the angels cry. -[1270.66 --> 1273.66] When the angels cry. -[1273.66 --> 1278.66] Holy, all creation cries. -[1278.66 --> 1280.66] Holy, you are lifted high. -[1280.66 --> 1282.66] Holy, all creation cries. -[1282.66 --> 1286.66] Holy, you are lifted high. -[1286.66 --> 1287.66] Holy, all creation cries. -[1287.66 --> 1290.66] Holy, you are lifted high. -[1290.66 --> 1295.66] Holy, all in your heaven. -[1295.66 --> 1296.66] Holy, Oh, God. -[1296.66 --> 1298.66] Holy, you are Sciences. -[1298.66 --> 1299.66] Holy, you are lifted high. -[1299.66 --> 1302.66] Holy, you are lifted high. -[1302.66 --> 1303.66] Holy, you are milked, high. -[1303.66 --> 1304.66] Holy, you are raised high. -[1304.66 --> 1308.66] Holy, you are mixed with groceries, low high. -[1308.66 --> 1309.66] Holy, you are lifted high. -[1310.66 --> 1311.66] Holy, you are warm. -[1311.66 --> 1313.66] Holy, you're washed away. -[1313.66 --> 1318.66] Holy, you are buscar in heaven above the hillb tremendo yourself. -[1318.66 --> 1320.70] Holy, your hands ofίας. -[1320.70 --> 1329.88] It's the highest, your name -[1329.88 --> 1333.16] It's the greatest, your name -[1333.16 --> 1337.44] Stance above the Lord -[1337.44 --> 1342.38] All hope, all redeeming, all power -[1342.38 --> 1345.60] And the mission, your name -[1345.60 --> 1349.20] Stance above the Lord -[1349.20 --> 1351.84] Jesus, your name -[1351.84 --> 1354.74] It's the highest, your name -[1354.74 --> 1358.06] It's the greatest, your name -[1358.06 --> 1361.54] Stance above the Lord -[1361.54 --> 1366.88] All hope, all redeeming, all power -[1366.88 --> 1370.00] And the mission, your name -[1370.00 --> 1373.06] Stance above the Lord -[1373.06 --> 1376.08] Holy Ancient's pride -[1376.08 --> 1382.22] Holy, O Ancient Christ -[1382.22 --> 1387.70] Holy, you are lifted high -[1387.70 --> 1395.92] Holy, holy, you are where I am -[1395.92 --> 1399.70] All your people sing -[1399.70 --> 1406.36] Holy, to the King of kings -[1406.36 --> 1412.56] Holy, you will always be -[1412.56 --> 1418.42] Holy, holy forever -[1418.42 --> 1425.28] You will always be -[1425.28 --> 1431.70] Holy, holy forever -[1431.70 --> 1436.90] Please be seated -[1436.90 --> 1446.26] Bow with me for a moment in prayer -[1446.26 --> 1450.34] Lord God, you are love -[1450.34 --> 1454.54] And it's evidenced by your sacrifice for us on the cross -[1454.54 --> 1457.42] Your love feels our pain -[1457.42 --> 1459.38] And it wipes away our tears -[1459.38 --> 1461.84] Your love knows our grief -[1461.84 --> 1462.96] And it comforts us -[1462.96 --> 1465.34] Your love sees our sins -[1465.34 --> 1466.32] And our failings -[1466.32 --> 1468.54] And it forgives those who repent -[1468.54 --> 1472.46] Forgive us when we fail to live lives that reflect your love -[1472.46 --> 1476.88] Forgive us for the many times when we have taken your love -[1476.88 --> 1479.32] And all that you have done for us for granted -[1479.32 --> 1483.34] Transform us through your spirit, we pray -[1483.34 --> 1488.62] And empower us to love and serve you this day and all days -[1488.62 --> 1489.64] Amen -[1489.64 --> 1490.84] Amen -[1490.84 --> 1491.68] Amen -[1491.68 --> 1492.26] mmm -[1492.26 --> 1494.68] Amen -[1494.68 --> 1498.28] Amen -[1498.28 --> 1502.52] Amen -[1502.78 --> 1506.38] Amen -[1506.38 --> 1507.02] Amen -[1507.02 --> 1508.04] Amen -[1508.04 --> 1509.26] Amen -[1509.26 --> 1509.84] Amen -[1509.84 --> 1515.96] Amen -[1515.96 --> 1518.36] Amen -[1518.36 --> 1526.48] It goes beyond the highest storm -[1526.48 --> 1532.76] That reaches to the lowest down -[1532.76 --> 1539.98] The guilty man bowed down with care -[1539.98 --> 1546.40] God gave His love to win -[1546.40 --> 1553.40] His every child be reconciled -[1553.40 --> 1559.40] And pardoned from His sin -[1559.40 --> 1566.40] Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh -[1566.40 --> 1572.40] How bad your hands and soul -[1572.40 --> 1579.40] It shall forevermore and through -[1579.40 --> 1585.40] Thus sings an angel song -[1585.40 --> 1592.40] When years of time -[1592.40 --> 1595.40] Shall pass away -[1595.40 --> 1598.40] And earth be told -[1598.40 --> 1602.40] And kingdom's own -[1602.40 --> 1605.40] When men who hear -[1605.40 --> 1608.40] Refuse to pray -[1608.40 --> 1612.40] On rocks and hills -[1612.40 --> 1615.40] And mountains fall -[1615.40 --> 1618.40] The love so sure -[1618.40 --> 1621.40] Shall still endure -[1621.40 --> 1622.40] All men who hear -[1622.40 --> 1624.40] All men who hear -[1624.40 --> 1628.40] And strong -[1628.40 --> 1631.40] Bring in praise -[1631.40 --> 1636.50] Therese by -[1636.50 --> 1639.40] Yes i t烈 -[1639.40 --> 1654.40] Oh, love of God, how rich and pure, how measureless and strong. -[1654.40 --> 1667.34] It shall forever endure the saints and angels' song. -[1669.40 --> 1683.58] We live in the ocean filled, and where the sky of the morning came, -[1683.58 --> 1696.58] where every song on earth would live, and every man that starved our day. -[1696.58 --> 1709.52] To let the power of God above would trade the ocean down. -[1709.52 --> 1721.52] The goodness strong, the dream of all, will spread from sky to sky. -[1721.52 --> 1734.46] Oh, love of God, how rich and pure, how measureless and strong. -[1734.46 --> 1746.46] It shall forever endure the saints and angels' song. -[1746.46 --> 1759.46] Oh, love of God, how rich and pure, how measureless and strong. -[1759.46 --> 1773.46] It shall forevermore endure the saints and angels' song. -[1773.46 --> 1778.46] Oh, love of God, how rich and pure, how rich and pure, how rich and pure, how rich and pure. -[1778.46 --> 1780.46] Please do the next song. -[1780.46 --> 1787.46] Please do the next song. -[1787.46 --> 1798.90] Please do the next song. -[1798.90 --> 1810.34] And earth has quaked before, moved by the sound of His voice. -[1811.92 --> 1821.34] And God shared an answer, bringing all to prove Him for my reward. -[1821.34 --> 1829.34] Through it all, through it all, my eyes are on You. -[1830.08 --> 1834.34] Through it all, through it all, it is well. -[1836.84 --> 1842.34] Through it all, through it all, my eyes are on You. -[1842.34 --> 1848.34] It is well with me. -[1851.34 --> 1862.34] For it be it for me to not believe. -[1862.34 --> 1880.34] Even when my eyes are in the sun, and the mountain that's in front of me, will you fall into the midst of the sun? -[1880.34 --> 1888.34] Through it all, through it all, my eyes are on You. -[1889.34 --> 1893.34] Through it all, through it all, it is well. -[1893.34 --> 1902.34] Through it all, through it all, my eyes are on You. -[1902.34 --> 1908.34] It is well, it is well. -[1908.34 --> 1915.34] Let go my soul and trust in Him. -[1915.34 --> 1921.34] With the wind to know His name. -[1921.34 --> 1928.34] Let go my soul and trust in Him. -[1928.34 --> 1934.34] With the wind to know His name. -[1934.34 --> 1947.34] With the wind to know His name. -[1947.34 --> 1949.34] The wind to know His name. -[1949.34 --> 1954.34] The wind to know His name. -[1954.34 --> 1968.34] It is well with my soul. -[1968.34 --> 1969.34] It is well with my soul. -[1969.34 --> 1970.34] In the sun. -[1970.34 --> 1975.34] It is well with my soul. -[1975.34 --> 1976.34] it is well with my soul. -[1976.34 --> 1982.34] with my soul. -[1982.34 --> 1988.34] In the sun. -[1988.34 --> 1993.66] In the sun. -[1993.66 --> 2007.66] It is love, it is love with my soul. -[2007.66 --> 2019.66] It is love with my soul. -[2019.66 --> 2031.66] It is love with my soul. -[2031.66 --> 2045.66] It is love with my soul. -[2045.66 --> 2057.66] It is love, it is love with my soul. -[2057.66 --> 2069.66] It is love, it is love with my soul. -[2069.66 --> 2081.66] It is love, it is love with my soul. -[2081.66 --> 2091.66] It is love, it is love. -[2091.66 --> 2097.66] Through it all, my eyes are on you. -[2097.66 --> 2103.66] Through it all, through it all, it is love. -[2103.66 --> 2110.66] Through it all, through it all, my eyes are on you. -[2110.66 --> 2122.66] It is love with my soul. -[2122.66 --> 2134.66] Through it all, through it all, through it all. -[2134.66 --> 2138.66] Good morning, my name is Mike and I'm a deacon with this church. -[2138.66 --> 2143.66] And we're going to take a moment now to give of our gifts that God has given us. -[2143.66 --> 2146.66] And our offering today is for the Benevolence Fund. -[2146.66 --> 2156.66] And for those that don't know what that is, it is a special fund that the deacons administer on behalf of this church family for special needs in our church, but also that come to us from outside the community. -[2156.66 --> 2158.66] So thank you for giving. -[2158.66 --> 2160.66] Lord, You have my heart and I will search for Your message -[2165.66 --> 2166.14] Cause we're all for you for -[2166.14 --> 2183.24] Lord, you have my heart -[2183.24 --> 2187.96] And I will search for yours -[2187.96 --> 2195.34] Jesus, take my life and lead me on -[2195.34 --> 2201.96] Lord, you have my heart -[2201.96 --> 2207.02] And I will search for yours -[2207.02 --> 2213.10] Let me be to you a sacrifice -[2213.10 --> 2221.30] And I will praise you -[2221.30 --> 2225.92] Lord, I will praise you -[2225.92 --> 2231.92] I will sing of my condemnation -[2231.92 --> 2235.92] I will sing of my condemnation -[2235.92 --> 2241.92] I will show your face -[2241.92 --> 2247.54] Let's see your glory -[2247.54 --> 2264.16] Lord, you have my heart -[2264.16 --> 2268.16] And I will search for yours -[2268.16 --> 2275.78] Jesus, take my life and lead me on -[2275.78 --> 2280.78] Lord, you have my heart -[2280.78 --> 2285.78] And I will search for yours -[2285.78 --> 2292.40] Let me give you a sacrifice -[2292.40 --> 2299.40] And I will praise you -[2299.40 --> 2303.40] Lord, I will praise you -[2303.40 --> 2307.40] Lord, I will sing of love -[2307.40 --> 2312.02] Come down and sing of love -[2312.02 --> 2318.02] And I will show your praise -[2318.02 --> 2336.72] We'll see your glory -[2336.72 --> 2351.74] If I could have all the kids, I think age 3 up to grade 4, come join me at the front. -[2352.30 --> 2356.96] We'll have a quick chat and the children's blessing, and then we'll go to children's worship time. -[2357.78 --> 2358.50] Oh boy. -[2359.82 --> 2363.20] Hi guys. -[2363.90 --> 2364.84] There's lots of you today. -[2364.84 --> 2368.94] I wasn't sure how many would be here because I think a lot of us are on spring break. -[2369.50 --> 2374.48] Hey, you guys know one of my favorite things is about coming to children's worship time? -[2374.98 --> 2379.90] Is that you guys always have crazy stories you have to tell all the time. -[2379.96 --> 2381.68] You always have things you want to share, right? -[2382.74 --> 2386.98] Can anyone think of anything they're going to want to share maybe later in children's worship time? -[2387.20 --> 2387.98] Don't tell me yet. -[2388.08 --> 2388.82] Don't tell me yet. -[2389.48 --> 2393.16] Do you have a good story that you can think of that you're just dying to tell somebody? -[2393.42 --> 2394.68] Put your hand up if you do. -[2394.84 --> 2395.28] Me. -[2395.52 --> 2396.30] Yeah, you do? -[2396.74 --> 2397.78] Okay, we'll talk later. -[2398.46 --> 2398.86] Yeah. -[2399.54 --> 2401.72] I went to a birthday party yesterday. -[2401.84 --> 2403.86] That's the story I want to tell everybody about. -[2404.16 --> 2406.78] I went to Pastor Kevin's birthday party yesterday. -[2407.20 --> 2407.42] Yeah. -[2407.94 --> 2410.68] We talked about lions and bears and tigers. -[2411.50 --> 2411.94] Yep. -[2412.26 --> 2412.46] Yep. -[2412.54 --> 2413.70] And we ate nachos. -[2413.88 --> 2415.38] And I have way more things to tell you. -[2416.18 --> 2421.40] So today, we're going to talk about how exciting it is to tell our big stories. -[2421.66 --> 2426.90] And we all have a really big story to tell when Easter comes around, right? -[2427.66 --> 2430.12] So we're going to talk about that some more in children's worship time today. -[2430.12 --> 2438.18] We're starting to talk about the book of John and about the extravagant story that God has for us all in that book. -[2438.60 --> 2440.78] So I think we'll talk more until it's worship time. -[2440.88 --> 2441.02] Yeah? -[2441.82 --> 2442.06] Okay. -[2442.14 --> 2444.54] And I want to hear some of you guys' big stories too today, okay? -[2444.60 --> 2445.72] So think about that. -[2446.10 --> 2451.74] But let's stand together with the church and we'll bless them and they will bless us in return as we go to worship time. -[2451.74 --> 2479.96] Good morning, everyone. -[2479.96 --> 2480.98] My name's Eric. -[2480.98 --> 2481.98] Eric. -[2481.98 --> 2487.92] I am an elder here at Emanuel and I'm going to lead you through family prayer. -[2488.08 --> 2490.96] A couple of things before I start my prayer. -[2492.20 --> 2499.70] Just found out this morning from Kevin that a lot of us here know a gentleman named John Coning who used to attend here. -[2500.18 --> 2506.76] He was suffering from melanoma and I guess his cancer is no more. -[2506.76 --> 2509.28] So we heard from the doctor this week that he's cleared of cancer. -[2509.28 --> 2511.28] So that's a... -[2511.28 --> 2512.28] Thank you. -[2512.28 --> 2513.28] Thank you. -[2513.28 --> 2514.28] Thank you. -[2514.28 --> 2515.28] Thank you. -[2515.28 --> 2516.28] Thank you. -[2516.28 --> 2517.28] Thank you. -[2517.28 --> 2518.28] Thank you. -[2518.28 --> 2519.28] Thank you. -[2519.28 --> 2520.28] Thank you. -[2520.28 --> 2521.28] Thank you. -[2521.28 --> 2522.28] Thank you. -[2522.28 --> 2523.28] Thank you. -[2523.28 --> 2524.28] Thank you. -[2524.28 --> 2525.28] Thank you. -[2525.28 --> 2526.28] Thank you. -[2526.28 --> 2527.28] Thank you. -[2527.28 --> 2528.28] Thank you. -[2528.28 --> 2529.28] Thank you. -[2529.28 --> 2530.28] Thank you. -[2530.28 --> 2531.28] Thank you. -[2531.28 --> 2532.28] Thank you. -[2532.28 --> 2533.78] Very, thank you. -[2533.78 --> 2534.28] I going to抽 this out for a beautiful day. -[2534.28 --> 2537.28] And Kelly Casa spirit, St. Enola, I'm happy for that. -[2537.28 --> 2538.28] Thank you, St. Enola. -[2538.28 --> 2539.28] Thank you. -[2539.28 --> 2541.18] Thank you, I've been with you. -[2541.18 --> 2549.60] All our mission teams from all over the place, whether from here and from other schools and churches, are out there right now spreading the word. -[2550.38 --> 2552.36] So please join me in prayer. -[2556.18 --> 2559.86] Gracious God, what a wonderful day you have offered us. -[2560.34 --> 2566.16] How life-giving is the sun and the warmth not only of your creation, but for us as humans as well. -[2566.16 --> 2574.92] After what seems like a long winter, we welcome the spring and the energy and positivity that comes with the warmth, the longer days, and the sunshine. -[2576.34 --> 2585.14] The changing of the seasons are a witness to your power, control, and the intricate details of creation that are evidence that you are the only creator. -[2586.84 --> 2594.00] Being on this earth, Lord, has its joys and excitement, but we all have to navigate many challenges and difficulties along the way. -[2594.00 --> 2603.62] Why, Lord, we ask, to so many of these trials and tribulations that happen, and why do some have more struggles than others? -[2604.74 --> 2612.32] For many of us, we are walking the road of difficulty and trials with our friends and family, and that carries its own burdens. -[2612.32 --> 2621.80] How, Lord, do we encourage and support our friend who has been struck with cancer and has a young family that needs him dearly? -[2623.06 --> 2631.44] How, Lord, do we walk the road with a family member who suffers from mental health, and simply trying to understand it, let alone offering support, is so very difficult? -[2631.44 --> 2638.62] How, Lord, do we encourage and support someone who is lonely and is longing for companionship or deeper friendship? -[2640.76 --> 2649.98] How do we support our young people and our children who make poor decisions, and as parents and community, you try to encourage and guide them when they don't necessarily want to hear it? -[2649.98 --> 2657.60] How do we go through life, Lord, when one of our loved ones has passed away and has left a huge hole in our lives? -[2659.16 --> 2667.38] How do we see one of our children carrying a burden, and we can't carry that burden for them, and we have to, all we can do is support and love them? -[2667.38 --> 2689.56] How do we use them to Why does it, and we can't love them, and heal our lives once again? -[2689.56 --> 2693.48] up in Smithers as they try to make sense of the declining health of Rachel. -[2694.64 --> 2697.48] We ask for prayer for Rachel as she deals with her illness. -[2698.54 --> 2701.90] We pray for Matthew as he supports his wife and children through this time. -[2702.52 --> 2706.48] We pray for the kids as they try to make sense of what their mom is going through. -[2707.24 --> 2711.42] And we pray for the family and friends of Matt and Rachel as they support them through this time. -[2712.46 --> 2718.10] We pray for Kobe DeBoersep, grandson of former members of ours who is fighting through leukemia at this time. -[2718.10 --> 2723.12] It doesn't really seem to make sense that a young person should have to carry this kind of a burden. -[2723.98 --> 2727.30] We pray for healing and strength for this family through this time. -[2728.74 --> 2734.26] This time of the year with spring break around the corner, we have many in our midst who go on vacation or missions trips. -[2735.34 --> 2741.06] Lord, please keep all our loved ones safe who are going on missions trips from either Emmanuel or other places. -[2741.46 --> 2745.56] And may your Holy Spirit work and guide them in the work they are doing to spread the word. -[2745.56 --> 2750.86] Please bring them all back safely to us as well as those who are on vacation. -[2752.88 --> 2756.04] Thank you, Lord, for the opportunity to have classes happen a week ago. -[2756.26 --> 2760.56] It is good to meet and to hear how you are working in our world and in our churches. -[2762.44 --> 2767.04] And here, Lord Emmanuel, we thank you for this great church and its great people and staff. -[2767.04 --> 2773.84] We continue to bless our staff and volunteers as they carry out your work. -[2774.32 --> 2781.98] Help us, Lord, in the next few weeks to find leaders in our church to come forward to fill the roles needed on council through nominations. -[2781.98 --> 2790.82] With all that's going on in this world and in our lives, we must go into this week ahead knowing that you are in our corner. -[2791.56 --> 2796.36] And that you will care for us knowing not a hair falls from our head without our Father knowing. -[2797.88 --> 2800.06] And as the song we just sang said, -[2800.62 --> 2805.64] Through it all, through it all, Lord, help us to keep our eyes on you. -[2806.60 --> 2809.48] Through it all, through it all, it is well. -[2809.48 --> 2818.02] Help us to trust and obey, for there is no other way to be happy in you, Jesus, than to trust and obey. -[2818.78 --> 2819.04] Amen. -[2831.92 --> 2833.52] Yes, it was my birthday yesterday. -[2833.66 --> 2835.52] Yes, Mike Prince did come over to my house. -[2835.52 --> 2839.74] And yes, we did discuss lions and tigers and bears at that party. -[2840.28 --> 2844.74] The question was, if you were hiking, would you rather come across a big grizzly bear or a cougar? -[2845.26 --> 2847.32] And that debate lasted a good hour and a half. -[2849.18 --> 2850.86] Something else happened to me this week. -[2851.00 --> 2855.30] I was at a coffee shop here in Langley with a couple of other youth pastors. -[2855.44 --> 2858.10] We were doing some work for Reactivate this year, -[2858.10 --> 2862.50] which once again is coming to Emmanuel in September this year, which we're very excited about. -[2862.50 --> 2868.68] I was up ordering the drinks, the coffees for these two youth pastors, -[2868.68 --> 2873.96] and I was finishing my order, and the cashier asked, the barista asked, is there anything else? -[2874.06 --> 2876.38] And a young gentleman walked in at that moment. -[2876.44 --> 2877.74] He's like, yeah, put mine on there, too. -[2877.78 --> 2879.22] And I was like, yeah, okay, sure. -[2879.72 --> 2880.42] Put his on there, too. -[2880.44 --> 2881.16] He was like, no, no. -[2881.20 --> 2881.78] I was joking. -[2881.88 --> 2882.14] I was joking. -[2882.24 --> 2883.48] He was like, no, no, add it to the bill. -[2883.70 --> 2884.66] He's like, no, no, no, I couldn't. -[2884.70 --> 2884.98] It's fine. -[2885.02 --> 2886.40] I was like, all right, your call. -[2886.44 --> 2890.46] And I went to pay, and I tapped my credit card, and the machine didn't work. -[2890.46 --> 2893.66] And so I pulled out a different card, and I tried that one, and again, the machine didn't work. -[2894.12 --> 2895.88] And I said, oh, dude, I'm so sorry. -[2895.98 --> 2898.06] Like, I think I broke the machine. -[2898.18 --> 2899.70] And she's like, no, it's not your card. -[2899.76 --> 2900.38] It's actually a machine. -[2900.44 --> 2900.98] Give me a second. -[2901.10 --> 2903.42] I'll fix the internet connection or whatever. -[2903.50 --> 2903.96] It'll all be fine. -[2904.38 --> 2905.34] She's like, you go sit down. -[2905.48 --> 2906.48] I'll come call you up later. -[2906.54 --> 2906.92] So I did. -[2907.04 --> 2907.58] I sat down. -[2907.76 --> 2908.80] The gentleman behind me was there. -[2908.86 --> 2912.52] He was standing in line for a good 15 minutes, so I think it took a long time to, like, fix. -[2913.26 --> 2919.44] But eventually he paid and left the cafe, and I got up, and the barista came up to me. -[2919.44 --> 2923.78] He was like, actually, that guy just paid for all three of your drinks while you ate it. -[2925.58 --> 2930.38] And I smiled a lot because I thought to myself, that was such a fun exchange that the two of us had. -[2930.46 --> 2935.76] And it's actually a really good, albeit very small, example of the kind of thing we're going to talk about today. -[2935.84 --> 2938.16] That brought a little bit of joy to my life. -[2938.16 --> 2944.78] But this was a good example of what love can look like in the community in which we live. -[2944.88 --> 2947.60] Love is the topic of our text today. -[2947.70 --> 2952.62] And as we continue our sermon series through the book of Romans, we will be looking at that. -[2952.72 --> 2960.76] Now, today's passage doesn't necessarily contain any, like, hot-button issues like we've been looking at the last couple of weeks. -[2960.76 --> 2964.26] It's not a passage on religion and politics per se. -[2964.46 --> 2972.08] It doesn't contain any specific verse or chunk of text in here that causes, like, theological debates in a lot of circles. -[2972.66 --> 2975.14] Paul isn't stirring the pot here today, so to speak. -[2976.56 --> 2981.52] And yet, these three verses we're going to look at today are massively important. -[2981.52 --> 2987.76] They put a bow, they tie a bow, sort of, on what Paul has been talking about over these past couple chapters. -[2988.22 --> 2992.34] And it gives a very clear and very direct application for us today. -[2992.40 --> 2995.84] And my prayer is today that even though this passage might look a little simple on the surface, -[2996.34 --> 3001.24] that the Holy Spirit uses it to speak some powerful truths into our lives this morning. -[3001.34 --> 3003.76] So, if you have your Bibles, please open it up. -[3003.84 --> 3006.18] There's a bunch of them in the back that you can grab as well. -[3006.52 --> 3010.40] Or please turn your phone on and your Bible apps and get those open as well. -[3010.40 --> 3015.38] We're going to be looking at Romans chapter 13, verses 8 to 10 this morning. -[3015.46 --> 3021.04] And again, as always, I encourage you, please keep those Bibles open as we'll be diving in throughout the message. -[3021.60 --> 3024.36] So, Romans 13, verses 8 to 10. -[3025.08 --> 3026.22] They read like this. -[3027.22 --> 3034.64] Let no debt remain outstanding except the continuing debt of love, or to love one another. -[3035.00 --> 3037.76] For whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. -[3037.76 --> 3044.58] The commandments, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not murder, you shall not steal, you shall not covet, -[3045.04 --> 3050.44] and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command. -[3051.26 --> 3053.08] Love your neighbor as yourself. -[3054.20 --> 3056.04] Love does no harm to a neighbor. -[3056.68 --> 3060.56] Therefore, love is the fulfillment of the law. -[3061.32 --> 3062.90] The word of the Lord. -[3062.90 --> 3070.92] So, as we just read, this is a passage that focuses on love. -[3071.06 --> 3076.86] In fact, I think the big idea that comes out of these verses is a fairly simple one to write down -[3076.86 --> 3079.44] if you've got your notebooks and that's something you like to do. -[3081.18 --> 3084.60] However, the big idea might be a little bit, while it's a little bit easy to write down, -[3084.64 --> 3087.32] it might be a little bit harder to live out than we think. -[3087.32 --> 3089.04] But the big idea is this. -[3090.12 --> 3093.80] It is impossible to love others too much. -[3095.16 --> 3098.64] It is impossible to love others too much. -[3099.80 --> 3103.50] Now, this three-verse text repeatedly calls us to love. -[3103.74 --> 3104.44] Take a look at it. -[3104.48 --> 3106.02] Verse 8, love one another. -[3106.24 --> 3107.96] Verse 8 again, love others. -[3108.08 --> 3109.96] Verse 9, love your neighbor. -[3109.96 --> 3113.48] It also then gives two instructions on how to love. -[3113.74 --> 3115.22] Love does no harm to a neighbor. -[3115.60 --> 3118.90] And again, in verse 10, love fulfills the law. -[3119.82 --> 3122.22] But, what is love? -[3124.34 --> 3125.84] Now, how many of you just sang the lyrics, -[3125.98 --> 3127.52] baby, don't hurt me, don't hurt me no more, right? -[3127.58 --> 3128.44] Yeah, I see hands. -[3128.58 --> 3129.44] Put your hands up if you want. -[3129.48 --> 3131.36] I mean, I did every single time I read over this sermon. -[3133.00 --> 3136.76] Well, all five times love is mentioned in this text, -[3136.76 --> 3140.02] there's one Greek word used, and that is agape. -[3140.24 --> 3141.50] Now, for those of you in the know, -[3141.76 --> 3143.76] this is the love that's commonly referred to -[3143.76 --> 3147.76] to describe the kind of love that Jesus has for his church. -[3148.20 --> 3151.68] It's an unconditional, self-sacrificing, -[3151.80 --> 3154.32] all-encompassing kind of love, -[3154.38 --> 3157.40] which I think oftentimes leaves us a little bit overwhelmed. -[3157.72 --> 3159.62] It's perhaps a little hard to connect to that, -[3160.02 --> 3162.80] but it can be defined in more tangible ways as well. -[3163.84 --> 3166.74] All right, agape love is about valuing. -[3166.76 --> 3170.86] Agape love holds others in high esteem. -[3171.98 --> 3176.14] Agape love manifests or fuels a genuine -[3176.14 --> 3179.56] and generous concern for those around them. -[3180.50 --> 3184.54] Agape love is faithful towards those in our lives. -[3185.56 --> 3186.92] So it's selfless, yes. -[3187.12 --> 3188.86] It's unconditional, sure. -[3189.10 --> 3190.98] It's all-encompassing, absolutely. -[3190.98 --> 3194.34] But it's also simply seeing other people -[3194.34 --> 3197.30] as worth your time, -[3198.30 --> 3199.38] as worth your money, -[3199.84 --> 3201.62] as worth your energy, -[3202.18 --> 3204.06] as worth your efforts. -[3205.66 --> 3206.78] And so, in short, -[3207.28 --> 3210.36] it's seeing other people as worth your life. -[3210.36 --> 3215.36] This love is giving of yourself -[3215.36 --> 3217.90] because people are worth it, -[3218.14 --> 3220.58] because people are valued. -[3221.94 --> 3224.36] That's the love that this text is getting at. -[3224.36 --> 3232.86] But, as a cocky expert of the law once asked Jesus, -[3233.62 --> 3235.52] who exactly are we supposed to love? -[3236.36 --> 3239.08] Who should be the recipient of this agape love? -[3239.96 --> 3242.68] So when this expert asked Jesus this question, -[3243.20 --> 3245.88] Jesus answered him with the parable of the Good Samaritan. -[3246.24 --> 3246.88] Give it a read. -[3246.96 --> 3247.64] It's super good. -[3247.74 --> 3249.44] Luke 10, 25 to 37. -[3250.26 --> 3252.98] Romans, though, answers this question for us. -[3253.50 --> 3255.46] Romans has actually been answering this question -[3255.46 --> 3257.42] for a good chunk of time now. -[3258.26 --> 3260.48] See, time and time again throughout this letter, -[3260.92 --> 3262.44] throughout this sermon series even, -[3262.54 --> 3264.18] if you've had years to hear, -[3264.66 --> 3265.58] Paul answers this. -[3265.82 --> 3267.30] In previous weeks, we've heard this. -[3267.62 --> 3269.84] Romans 13, 1 to 7, the last two weeks. -[3270.16 --> 3270.88] Love your government. -[3272.00 --> 3272.72] Love your leaders. -[3273.86 --> 3276.34] Romans 12, 14 to 21, before that. -[3276.70 --> 3277.58] Love your enemies. -[3278.62 --> 3280.56] Love those who don't love you. -[3282.06 --> 3284.08] Before that, Romans 12, 3 to 8. -[3284.36 --> 3285.10] Love the church. -[3285.50 --> 3286.66] Love the body of Christ. -[3286.84 --> 3288.10] Love your brothers and sisters. -[3289.68 --> 3293.12] And honestly, in just that chapter and a half, -[3293.28 --> 3295.78] that kind of encompasses the whole spectrum, doesn't it? -[3296.40 --> 3297.68] That covers the whole gauntlet. -[3298.32 --> 3299.80] We're called to show this love -[3299.80 --> 3301.94] to those we like and those we don't. -[3302.10 --> 3303.84] To those who lead and those who serve. -[3304.12 --> 3306.70] To those who love us back and to those who don't. -[3306.70 --> 3309.60] To those who believe and to those who don't believe. -[3310.80 --> 3311.28] Everyone. -[3312.56 --> 3315.80] We are called to love everyone -[3315.80 --> 3317.98] with this agape love. -[3318.22 --> 3319.42] It is impossible -[3319.42 --> 3321.68] to love others -[3321.68 --> 3322.86] too much. -[3322.86 --> 3326.98] Paul then, in this little chunk, -[3326.98 --> 3328.20] he gives us a couple reasons -[3328.20 --> 3330.50] why we are called to show this kind of love -[3330.50 --> 3330.96] to everyone. -[3331.46 --> 3333.34] First, Paul compares the love -[3333.34 --> 3334.20] that we are to show -[3334.20 --> 3335.40] to a debt -[3335.40 --> 3336.56] that we cannot repay. -[3336.92 --> 3338.02] Now, if you look at verse 8 -[3338.02 --> 3338.62] in your text, -[3338.62 --> 3339.60] at first, -[3339.74 --> 3340.68] this seems to be about -[3340.68 --> 3342.04] paying back our loans. -[3342.28 --> 3343.32] And in some ways, -[3343.42 --> 3344.24] because it's coming out -[3344.24 --> 3345.38] of the previous text -[3345.38 --> 3347.54] on paying taxes -[3347.54 --> 3348.18] or revenue -[3348.18 --> 3348.82] or respect -[3348.82 --> 3349.24] or honor, -[3349.32 --> 3350.10] that does make sense. -[3350.28 --> 3351.24] There is a link there. -[3352.22 --> 3354.32] But I think what Paul is doing here -[3354.32 --> 3355.20] is a little bit clever. -[3355.32 --> 3355.96] He is saying -[3355.96 --> 3357.22] that we are called -[3357.22 --> 3358.18] to pay back -[3358.18 --> 3359.20] our financial loans -[3359.20 --> 3360.00] with integrity -[3360.00 --> 3361.00] for sure. -[3361.80 --> 3362.12] However, -[3362.20 --> 3363.32] those financial debts, -[3363.42 --> 3364.20] they've got a conclusion -[3364.20 --> 3364.74] to them. -[3365.58 --> 3366.20] Paul, in fact, -[3366.24 --> 3367.58] is more cleverly pointing out -[3367.58 --> 3368.36] that paying back -[3368.36 --> 3369.24] the debt of love -[3369.24 --> 3370.12] to the world -[3370.12 --> 3371.34] is a debt -[3371.34 --> 3372.78] that will be going on forever. -[3373.92 --> 3375.80] It's an ongoing debt. -[3376.06 --> 3376.36] It says, -[3376.72 --> 3378.46] let no debt remain outstanding -[3378.46 --> 3381.22] except for the continuing debt -[3381.22 --> 3381.82] of love -[3381.82 --> 3382.80] to one another. -[3384.14 --> 3384.60] Or, -[3384.86 --> 3386.46] as Eugene Peterson put it, -[3386.50 --> 3387.74] you know Eugene Peterson, right? -[3388.02 --> 3388.36] He's the guy -[3388.36 --> 3388.98] that wrote the Bible. -[3390.10 --> 3391.72] He translated -[3391.72 --> 3393.46] into one version -[3393.46 --> 3394.14] of the Bible -[3394.14 --> 3394.78] called The Message. -[3395.26 --> 3395.96] But he says this. -[3396.00 --> 3396.50] He says this. -[3396.68 --> 3397.74] He writes it pretty decently. -[3397.84 --> 3398.06] He says, -[3398.14 --> 3398.86] don't run up debts -[3398.86 --> 3401.02] except for the huge debt -[3401.02 --> 3401.68] of love -[3401.68 --> 3402.80] you owe to one another -[3402.80 --> 3404.28] or that you owe -[3404.28 --> 3404.94] to each other. -[3406.20 --> 3407.14] There is a debt -[3407.14 --> 3408.20] that will never be settled -[3408.20 --> 3409.00] and that is the debt -[3409.00 --> 3409.88] of love to others. -[3410.04 --> 3412.02] If we can go way back -[3412.02 --> 3413.02] and Greek out again -[3413.02 --> 3413.78] just for one minute, -[3413.88 --> 3414.60] the Greek language -[3414.60 --> 3415.94] highlights this very clearly. -[3416.06 --> 3416.84] The original audience -[3416.84 --> 3417.60] would have got this -[3417.60 --> 3418.22] right away -[3418.22 --> 3419.36] because the word -[3419.36 --> 3420.10] that starts out -[3420.10 --> 3421.08] verse 8 is oh -[3421.08 --> 3422.48] as in oh nothing. -[3422.48 --> 3423.52] We translate that -[3423.52 --> 3425.28] as to let no debt remain -[3425.28 --> 3426.18] but in Greek it says -[3426.18 --> 3426.86] owe nothing -[3426.86 --> 3429.42] but that verb to owe -[3429.42 --> 3430.46] or aphilio -[3430.46 --> 3432.30] is in the present imperative -[3432.30 --> 3434.56] which is just a super smart way -[3434.56 --> 3436.98] of saying that this is a constant -[3436.98 --> 3439.42] and continuous owing. -[3440.02 --> 3442.86] This is a never ending owing. -[3442.96 --> 3443.38] In other words, -[3443.46 --> 3444.00] the Greek here -[3444.00 --> 3444.94] is literally saying -[3444.94 --> 3446.58] owe nothing to anyone -[3446.58 --> 3449.80] except keep on owing love -[3449.80 --> 3451.92] to one another always. -[3452.58 --> 3454.18] Keep on owing on. -[3454.30 --> 3455.46] There's your t-shirt slogan. -[3455.92 --> 3457.22] Keep on loving. -[3457.98 --> 3458.38] Always. -[3458.66 --> 3459.36] Never stop. -[3460.76 --> 3461.54] In this way, -[3461.64 --> 3463.56] Paul is urging the reader -[3463.56 --> 3464.92] to see that love -[3464.92 --> 3466.22] is the only thing -[3466.22 --> 3467.98] that we cannot pay back. -[3468.62 --> 3469.88] It is a debt of love -[3469.88 --> 3471.30] that will always exist. -[3471.48 --> 3473.44] We cannot love too much. -[3473.44 --> 3478.38] John A.T. Robinson, -[3478.62 --> 3480.30] he's a New Testament scholar. -[3480.74 --> 3481.96] He was, sorry, -[3482.04 --> 3482.86] a New Testament scholar -[3482.86 --> 3483.84] and an Anglican bishop -[3483.84 --> 3485.14] in the mid-1900s. -[3485.30 --> 3486.02] He says this -[3486.02 --> 3486.96] about the debt of love -[3486.96 --> 3488.16] that Paul is writing about here. -[3488.22 --> 3488.56] He says, -[3488.56 --> 3490.32] We may pay our taxes -[3490.32 --> 3491.10] and be quit. -[3492.10 --> 3493.54] We may give respect -[3493.54 --> 3494.06] and honor -[3494.06 --> 3494.82] where they are due -[3494.82 --> 3496.56] and have no further obligation. -[3497.52 --> 3499.18] But we can never say -[3499.18 --> 3500.00] I have done -[3500.00 --> 3501.06] all of the loving -[3501.06 --> 3502.04] I need to do. -[3503.16 --> 3504.88] Love is a permanent obligation, -[3505.08 --> 3506.56] a debt impossible -[3506.56 --> 3507.30] to discharge. -[3508.56 --> 3511.28] We cannot love too much. -[3513.26 --> 3514.90] We can never stop loving. -[3514.98 --> 3515.84] The box can never -[3515.84 --> 3516.62] be fully checked. -[3516.74 --> 3518.22] Love is a permanent obligation. -[3518.22 --> 3520.20] Love must undergird -[3520.20 --> 3521.80] everything we do, -[3522.16 --> 3523.32] everything we say, -[3523.48 --> 3524.86] every decision we make. -[3525.12 --> 3526.96] We constantly owe love -[3526.96 --> 3527.72] to one another -[3527.72 --> 3528.66] because God, -[3528.96 --> 3530.22] who is love, -[3530.60 --> 3531.30] calls us -[3531.30 --> 3533.68] to live our lives of love. -[3533.94 --> 3536.88] We cannot love too much. -[3538.96 --> 3540.48] Love is the heartbeat -[3540.48 --> 3542.00] of everything we do, -[3542.50 --> 3544.00] whether it's paying taxes -[3544.00 --> 3545.28] or playing baseball, -[3545.76 --> 3546.10] cooking, -[3546.46 --> 3546.80] gardening, -[3547.10 --> 3547.46] building, -[3547.46 --> 3548.10] working, -[3548.10 --> 3548.14] working, -[3548.38 --> 3548.90] researching, -[3549.32 --> 3550.28] attending meetings, -[3550.46 --> 3551.18] vacationing, -[3551.40 --> 3552.16] fill in the blank -[3552.16 --> 3553.12] with whatever verb -[3553.12 --> 3554.00] you want to do -[3554.00 --> 3555.00] or whatever verb -[3555.00 --> 3556.28] you find yourself doing -[3556.28 --> 3557.30] throughout the week. -[3558.36 --> 3559.34] All of that -[3559.34 --> 3560.72] we are called to do -[3560.72 --> 3561.62] with love -[3561.62 --> 3562.58] to those who you happen -[3562.58 --> 3563.16] to be with -[3563.16 --> 3564.72] because the debt of love -[3564.72 --> 3565.28] is one -[3565.28 --> 3567.34] that we are forever repaying. -[3568.14 --> 3568.88] We cannot -[3568.88 --> 3570.38] love -[3570.38 --> 3571.50] too much. -[3571.50 --> 3574.74] so first of all, -[3574.98 --> 3577.12] we love one another -[3577.12 --> 3578.54] because the debt of love -[3578.54 --> 3579.42] is ongoing. -[3581.78 --> 3583.10] The second reason -[3583.10 --> 3584.46] that Paul gives us -[3584.46 --> 3585.28] to keep on loving -[3585.28 --> 3585.84] one another -[3585.84 --> 3587.08] is because love -[3587.08 --> 3588.78] fulfills the law. -[3590.22 --> 3591.56] In both verse 8 -[3591.56 --> 3592.38] and verse 10 -[3592.38 --> 3593.24] of our text, -[3593.74 --> 3594.62] Paul makes this clear. -[3595.12 --> 3595.64] In verse 8, -[3595.72 --> 3596.14] he says, -[3596.46 --> 3597.62] whoever loves others -[3597.62 --> 3598.76] has fulfilled the law. -[3598.76 --> 3600.02] And then in verse 10, -[3600.10 --> 3601.24] the very last eight words -[3601.24 --> 3602.12] of our text today, -[3602.68 --> 3603.06] it says, -[3603.42 --> 3603.60] therefore, -[3603.96 --> 3604.44] in other words, -[3604.54 --> 3605.22] summing up everything -[3605.22 --> 3606.22] we've just talked about, -[3606.60 --> 3606.92] therefore, -[3607.72 --> 3609.24] love is the fulfillment -[3609.24 --> 3610.26] of the law. -[3611.40 --> 3612.22] Now this is important -[3612.22 --> 3612.64] because -[3612.64 --> 3615.50] I think sometimes -[3615.50 --> 3618.34] we draw a line -[3618.34 --> 3619.46] between love and law. -[3620.56 --> 3622.20] We think love and law -[3622.20 --> 3622.82] are enemies. -[3622.82 --> 3626.48] We think truth, -[3626.80 --> 3627.26] obedience, -[3627.98 --> 3629.10] and law -[3629.10 --> 3630.82] fit in one category. -[3631.78 --> 3633.12] And then grace -[3633.12 --> 3633.80] and mercy -[3633.80 --> 3634.58] and love -[3634.58 --> 3636.18] fit in a different category. -[3637.78 --> 3639.02] Now this polarity -[3639.02 --> 3639.58] is obviously -[3639.58 --> 3640.44] very divisive -[3640.44 --> 3641.18] and it oftentimes -[3641.18 --> 3642.68] divides Christians -[3642.68 --> 3644.22] into two camps. -[3645.10 --> 3646.62] To make this political again -[3646.62 --> 3647.42] because this passage -[3647.42 --> 3648.18] is still connecting -[3648.18 --> 3649.18] to the one on government, -[3649.18 --> 3651.96] this separation -[3651.96 --> 3653.00] of law and love -[3653.00 --> 3654.74] often misleads people -[3654.74 --> 3656.66] by saying -[3656.66 --> 3657.12] you're either -[3657.12 --> 3657.88] in the loving, -[3658.42 --> 3659.14] liberal left -[3659.14 --> 3662.46] or the lawful, -[3663.02 --> 3663.88] conservative right. -[3664.86 --> 3667.16] Which simply corrupts -[3667.16 --> 3667.70] the reality -[3667.70 --> 3669.10] that you cannot separate -[3669.10 --> 3670.28] these two things together. -[3670.40 --> 3671.38] You cannot separate -[3671.38 --> 3672.50] law and love. -[3673.28 --> 3673.62] You see, -[3674.02 --> 3674.74] love and law -[3674.74 --> 3675.64] are not enemies. -[3676.70 --> 3677.62] They are united -[3677.62 --> 3678.64] by their relationship -[3678.64 --> 3679.42] in Jesus Christ. -[3679.50 --> 3681.22] Jesus came into this world -[3681.22 --> 3682.10] full of grace -[3682.10 --> 3682.84] and truth. -[3683.50 --> 3684.40] He came into this world -[3684.40 --> 3685.20] full of law -[3685.20 --> 3686.24] and love. -[3686.34 --> 3687.06] He fulfilled -[3687.06 --> 3688.58] the law of love -[3688.58 --> 3689.96] and he invites us -[3689.96 --> 3690.82] to do the same. -[3691.14 --> 3691.38] Again, -[3691.44 --> 3692.26] that's what the greatest -[3692.26 --> 3693.04] commandment is -[3693.04 --> 3694.22] when Jesus was asked this. -[3694.56 --> 3695.24] We are to love. -[3695.34 --> 3695.90] Love the Lord, -[3696.04 --> 3696.74] love your neighbor. -[3697.56 --> 3698.38] Matthew 23, -[3698.52 --> 3699.32] 37 to 40. -[3700.88 --> 3701.80] Without Jesus, -[3703.12 --> 3704.22] the law -[3704.22 --> 3705.02] is powerless. -[3705.02 --> 3707.70] But without Jesus, -[3708.22 --> 3710.00] love is directionless. -[3712.52 --> 3713.52] When you love, -[3713.60 --> 3714.70] you fulfill the law. -[3714.98 --> 3716.94] Law is against sin. -[3717.52 --> 3719.66] It is not against love. -[3721.12 --> 3721.78] Let me say that again. -[3721.92 --> 3723.52] Law is against sin. -[3723.74 --> 3725.12] It is not against love. -[3726.00 --> 3726.12] So, -[3726.84 --> 3727.60] love and law -[3727.60 --> 3728.26] are not enemies. -[3728.42 --> 3729.40] They work together -[3729.40 --> 3730.20] for the betterment -[3730.20 --> 3731.24] of the body of Christ. -[3731.34 --> 3732.70] They work together -[3732.70 --> 3733.48] for the betterment -[3733.48 --> 3734.16] of the communities -[3734.16 --> 3735.74] in which we find ourselves in. -[3736.88 --> 3737.96] But then the question becomes, -[3738.08 --> 3738.46] what does this -[3738.46 --> 3739.54] tangibly look like? -[3741.00 --> 3741.94] How are love -[3741.94 --> 3742.92] and law united -[3742.92 --> 3744.02] and how does that work -[3744.02 --> 3744.74] in our lives? -[3744.82 --> 3744.96] Well, -[3745.36 --> 3746.44] Paul gives us examples -[3746.44 --> 3747.66] of this in our text. -[3747.74 --> 3748.54] In verse 9, -[3749.02 --> 3749.78] Paul goes back -[3749.78 --> 3750.34] and he lists -[3750.34 --> 3752.08] some of the commands -[3752.08 --> 3753.78] that can only be followed -[3753.78 --> 3754.46] when we love. -[3755.92 --> 3757.30] He speaks of adultery, -[3757.80 --> 3758.12] murder, -[3758.54 --> 3758.90] stealing, -[3759.36 --> 3760.48] and covetousness. -[3760.48 --> 3764.06] These are all commands, -[3764.18 --> 3764.40] of course, -[3764.46 --> 3765.22] that are given way back -[3765.22 --> 3766.04] in Exodus 20 -[3766.04 --> 3767.34] in the Ten Commandments -[3767.34 --> 3768.22] to the people of Israel. -[3770.38 --> 3770.78] However, -[3770.98 --> 3771.78] in Exodus 20, -[3771.86 --> 3772.78] these commands are written -[3772.78 --> 3773.38] in the negative, -[3773.80 --> 3774.82] just like they are here -[3774.82 --> 3775.52] in Paul's letter. -[3775.94 --> 3776.08] Right? -[3776.14 --> 3776.58] They're all written, -[3776.68 --> 3778.20] thou shalt not commit adultery, -[3778.30 --> 3779.50] thou shalt not murder, -[3779.84 --> 3780.96] thou shalt not steal, -[3781.36 --> 3782.40] thou shalt not covet. -[3783.30 --> 3783.72] So, -[3783.80 --> 3784.56] these commands are written -[3784.56 --> 3785.34] as don'ts. -[3786.26 --> 3787.86] But what do these look like -[3787.86 --> 3789.30] if they're written as do's? -[3790.70 --> 3791.02] You see, -[3791.06 --> 3791.62] all these commands -[3791.62 --> 3792.38] can be written -[3792.38 --> 3793.12] in the positive. -[3794.16 --> 3795.42] And the easiest way -[3795.42 --> 3795.94] to do that -[3795.94 --> 3796.98] is to ask ourselves, -[3797.30 --> 3799.38] if I was to love the other, -[3799.72 --> 3800.96] what does this command say? -[3803.56 --> 3804.00] Now, -[3804.06 --> 3805.04] this is not my thinking. -[3805.26 --> 3806.18] The Heidelberg Catechism -[3806.18 --> 3807.10] does this for us. -[3807.16 --> 3808.02] The Heidelberg Catechism -[3808.02 --> 3809.20] is this confessional document -[3809.20 --> 3810.12] which uses scripture -[3810.12 --> 3811.42] to back up -[3811.42 --> 3811.90] and answer -[3811.90 --> 3813.10] some of the big questions -[3813.10 --> 3813.60] of faith, -[3813.66 --> 3815.04] and they do this for us. -[3815.44 --> 3815.72] So, -[3815.82 --> 3816.46] let's quickly look -[3816.46 --> 3817.42] at these four commands. -[3817.86 --> 3818.86] That Paul lists here -[3818.86 --> 3820.36] and see how they can be rewritten -[3820.36 --> 3822.00] to speak in the positive. -[3822.16 --> 3823.28] See how they can be written -[3823.28 --> 3825.30] through the lens of love. -[3825.96 --> 3826.26] So, -[3826.32 --> 3827.36] when thinking of adultery, -[3828.28 --> 3829.50] for the married person, -[3829.64 --> 3830.70] following this command -[3830.70 --> 3832.06] means not only -[3832.06 --> 3832.68] that you refuse -[3832.68 --> 3833.66] to cheat on your spouse, -[3834.78 --> 3836.46] but that you're constantly -[3836.46 --> 3837.80] looking for ways -[3837.80 --> 3839.44] to serve and care for them -[3839.44 --> 3840.02] in their everyday. -[3841.38 --> 3842.12] That's what -[3842.12 --> 3843.30] not committing adultery -[3843.30 --> 3843.80] looks like -[3843.80 --> 3844.86] when we love that person. -[3845.84 --> 3847.12] When thinking about murder, -[3847.12 --> 3847.88] following this command -[3847.88 --> 3848.78] means not only -[3848.78 --> 3849.34] that you refuse -[3849.34 --> 3850.16] to kill people, -[3851.12 --> 3852.36] but also that -[3852.36 --> 3853.28] you would be loving -[3853.28 --> 3854.22] towards those -[3854.22 --> 3854.90] who you dislike, -[3854.98 --> 3855.70] to be patient, -[3856.12 --> 3857.36] to be peace-bearing, -[3857.72 --> 3858.52] to be gentle -[3858.52 --> 3859.34] and merciful -[3859.34 --> 3860.44] and friendly -[3860.44 --> 3861.14] towards them. -[3861.26 --> 3861.88] We're called -[3861.88 --> 3863.08] to do good -[3863.08 --> 3864.78] in this command. -[3865.64 --> 3866.94] When thinking about theft, -[3867.50 --> 3868.22] following this command -[3868.22 --> 3869.26] is more than simply -[3869.26 --> 3871.30] refusing to take things -[3871.30 --> 3872.54] that don't belong to us, -[3872.54 --> 3874.34] but it's actually -[3874.34 --> 3875.40] actively giving -[3875.40 --> 3876.32] of the things -[3876.32 --> 3877.76] that we do possess -[3877.76 --> 3879.16] to give to others, -[3879.16 --> 3879.88] our money, -[3880.00 --> 3880.50] our possessions, -[3880.64 --> 3881.00] our time, -[3881.06 --> 3881.52] our energy, -[3881.52 --> 3883.60] so that others -[3883.60 --> 3885.48] whom we love -[3885.48 --> 3886.64] are blessed -[3886.64 --> 3887.62] by the very gifts -[3887.62 --> 3888.66] that God has entrusted -[3888.66 --> 3889.24] to us. -[3890.58 --> 3891.50] That's why Paul talks -[3891.50 --> 3892.50] about paying our taxes -[3892.50 --> 3893.16] and tithing -[3893.16 --> 3893.64] and serving -[3893.64 --> 3894.60] and giving of yourself. -[3894.70 --> 3895.80] That's how you love -[3895.80 --> 3897.42] with this command. -[3898.00 --> 3898.52] And then finally, -[3898.62 --> 3899.28] covetousness. -[3899.70 --> 3900.46] Following this command -[3900.46 --> 3901.12] is not simply -[3901.12 --> 3902.78] refusing to desire -[3902.78 --> 3903.92] what other people possess, -[3904.50 --> 3904.76] which, -[3905.28 --> 3906.00] just real quick, -[3906.08 --> 3906.80] is something that -[3906.80 --> 3908.00] is just rampant -[3908.00 --> 3908.48] right now -[3908.48 --> 3909.30] in our culture -[3909.30 --> 3910.82] with the highlight clips -[3910.82 --> 3911.58] that we get to see -[3911.58 --> 3912.30] each and every day -[3912.30 --> 3913.26] on the social medias. -[3914.06 --> 3914.40] But no, -[3914.90 --> 3915.96] following this exam -[3915.96 --> 3916.90] or following this command, -[3916.98 --> 3917.08] sorry, -[3917.12 --> 3918.20] is not simply refusing -[3918.20 --> 3918.92] to desire -[3918.92 --> 3920.08] what other people possess, -[3921.08 --> 3921.48] but it means -[3921.48 --> 3923.12] actively celebrating -[3923.12 --> 3923.78] with people -[3923.78 --> 3924.84] who have accomplished -[3924.84 --> 3925.96] things and received -[3925.96 --> 3926.80] things that God -[3926.80 --> 3927.50] has given them, -[3927.80 --> 3928.80] that God has entrusted -[3928.80 --> 3929.76] them to steward well. -[3931.42 --> 3932.14] And so that means -[3932.14 --> 3933.00] for us as a body, -[3933.08 --> 3934.70] for us as church members, -[3935.02 --> 3936.42] that following this law -[3936.42 --> 3937.76] of love, -[3937.80 --> 3938.64] it means more than -[3938.64 --> 3940.60] simply refusing -[3940.60 --> 3942.06] to actively sin -[3942.06 --> 3942.96] against your brothers -[3942.96 --> 3944.10] and sisters in Christ, -[3945.10 --> 3946.34] but they were actually -[3946.34 --> 3946.96] actively, -[3947.20 --> 3947.74] purposely -[3947.74 --> 3950.00] looking for ways -[3950.00 --> 3950.96] in which we can bless -[3950.96 --> 3952.20] and serve each other, -[3952.38 --> 3953.20] which we can bless -[3953.20 --> 3954.18] and serve everyone -[3954.18 --> 3954.98] in this body, -[3955.02 --> 3956.06] not just those -[3956.06 --> 3956.70] that you know -[3956.70 --> 3957.30] or those that are -[3957.30 --> 3958.36] the same age as you -[3958.36 --> 3959.32] or those that are -[3959.32 --> 3960.30] into the same things -[3960.30 --> 3960.70] as you -[3960.70 --> 3961.32] or who are -[3961.32 --> 3962.12] in the same circles -[3962.12 --> 3962.64] as you, -[3962.78 --> 3963.80] but everyone, -[3964.58 --> 3965.48] that we are actively -[3965.48 --> 3966.32] and purposefully -[3966.32 --> 3967.28] looking for ways -[3967.28 --> 3968.28] to serve each other. -[3969.50 --> 3970.58] That is how we show -[3970.58 --> 3971.48] love in these commands. -[3971.48 --> 3976.80] Now, there's one last thing. -[3977.84 --> 3978.50] We're going to look -[3978.50 --> 3979.48] at verse 10 there -[3979.48 --> 3980.40] with me for a second -[3980.40 --> 3982.40] because there's one more -[3982.40 --> 3983.54] thing to highlight there. -[3983.64 --> 3984.46] Verse 10 says this. -[3984.52 --> 3984.78] It says, -[3984.94 --> 3985.96] love does no harm -[3985.96 --> 3986.54] to a neighbor. -[3986.82 --> 3987.16] Therefore, -[3987.42 --> 3988.78] love is the fulfillment -[3988.78 --> 3989.50] of the law. -[3991.30 --> 3992.16] Now, there's something -[3992.16 --> 3993.08] worth quickly pointing -[3993.08 --> 3993.64] out here -[3993.64 --> 3994.80] because it is easy -[3994.80 --> 3995.72] for us to read -[3995.72 --> 3996.76] our own culture -[3996.76 --> 3997.44] and context -[3997.44 --> 3998.40] into this verse. -[3998.40 --> 3999.92] See, in our culture, -[4000.78 --> 4002.40] the idea of do no harm -[4002.40 --> 4003.62] has become a bit -[4003.62 --> 4004.42] of a buzzy saying. -[4004.96 --> 4005.60] And I think -[4005.60 --> 4007.12] the majority of the time, -[4007.16 --> 4007.70] and I mean this, -[4007.78 --> 4009.00] the majority of the time, -[4009.04 --> 4010.18] it is a very good thing. -[4010.76 --> 4011.32] I mean, after all, -[4011.34 --> 4012.36] Paul is saying it here. -[4012.84 --> 4013.46] Paul is saying here -[4013.46 --> 4014.66] that love does no harm -[4014.66 --> 4015.18] to a neighbor. -[4016.64 --> 4017.04] However, -[4017.14 --> 4017.90] what has happened -[4017.90 --> 4018.46] a little bit -[4018.46 --> 4019.06] in our culture -[4019.06 --> 4020.00] is sometimes -[4020.00 --> 4020.66] this plucky -[4020.66 --> 4021.96] do no harm slogan -[4021.96 --> 4023.00] gets stretched -[4023.00 --> 4023.62] a little further -[4023.62 --> 4024.86] than Paul is intending here. -[4025.82 --> 4026.62] Now, it's important -[4026.62 --> 4027.74] to know in Paul's letter here -[4027.74 --> 4028.44] that this line, -[4028.54 --> 4029.32] this whole verse 10, -[4029.44 --> 4029.80] actually, -[4030.16 --> 4031.66] is written in Greek -[4031.66 --> 4032.54] very poetically. -[4033.16 --> 4035.08] It's written as a chiasm, -[4035.20 --> 4035.76] but unfortunately, -[4035.90 --> 4036.60] that gets lost -[4036.60 --> 4037.50] in the English. -[4038.00 --> 4038.80] It still carries -[4038.80 --> 4039.48] some authority. -[4039.94 --> 4040.74] Love does no harm -[4040.74 --> 4041.24] to a neighbor. -[4041.36 --> 4041.62] Therefore, -[4041.76 --> 4042.58] love is the fulfillment -[4042.58 --> 4043.26] of the law. -[4043.60 --> 4044.44] But the poetry -[4044.44 --> 4045.46] and the artistry -[4045.46 --> 4046.60] is missing. -[4046.84 --> 4048.12] It's lost in the English. -[4048.60 --> 4049.22] And one thing -[4049.22 --> 4050.32] that gets missed here -[4050.32 --> 4052.18] is that when Paul says -[4052.18 --> 4053.76] love does no harm, -[4053.86 --> 4054.40] he is saying -[4054.40 --> 4055.84] love does no evil. -[4056.62 --> 4057.54] The word here -[4057.54 --> 4058.60] is kakos, -[4059.10 --> 4060.24] which means evilness -[4060.24 --> 4061.02] or wickedness -[4061.02 --> 4062.38] or a perversion -[4062.38 --> 4063.22] of what is right. -[4064.52 --> 4064.88] And I think -[4064.88 --> 4066.18] what needs highlighting today -[4066.18 --> 4067.26] is that oftentimes -[4067.26 --> 4068.28] our culture pushes -[4068.28 --> 4070.06] this do no harm narrative -[4070.06 --> 4071.70] just too far, -[4071.80 --> 4072.50] a little too far. -[4072.78 --> 4074.04] It's turned into a phrase -[4074.04 --> 4075.26] that can become -[4075.26 --> 4076.54] very individualistic. -[4077.26 --> 4077.50] Like, -[4077.58 --> 4078.94] I can do whatever I want -[4078.94 --> 4081.14] unless it causes -[4081.14 --> 4081.70] someone harm. -[4081.70 --> 4083.22] or perhaps -[4083.22 --> 4083.94] making it -[4083.94 --> 4085.32] receptive, -[4085.80 --> 4087.00] you can't tell me -[4087.00 --> 4088.36] how to live my life -[4088.36 --> 4089.70] because what you're saying -[4089.70 --> 4090.46] offends me -[4090.46 --> 4091.64] or causes me harm. -[4092.40 --> 4093.50] But if the reality -[4093.50 --> 4094.12] is -[4094.12 --> 4095.98] that law is love -[4095.98 --> 4097.26] and love is law, -[4098.32 --> 4099.30] sometimes -[4099.30 --> 4101.28] in order to love someone, -[4101.68 --> 4103.40] we may need -[4103.40 --> 4104.02] to risk -[4104.02 --> 4104.96] offending them. -[4105.30 --> 4106.30] That's different -[4106.30 --> 4107.32] than the harm -[4107.32 --> 4107.86] that Paul -[4107.86 --> 4108.98] is speaking about. -[4108.98 --> 4109.24] Now, -[4109.66 --> 4110.32] please, -[4110.80 --> 4111.28] please, -[4111.42 --> 4111.96] please -[4111.96 --> 4113.38] be careful -[4113.38 --> 4115.06] with this instruction. -[4116.94 --> 4118.30] There are two things -[4118.30 --> 4119.48] that are particularly -[4119.48 --> 4120.20] important. -[4121.54 --> 4122.08] And oftentimes -[4122.08 --> 4123.22] we really need to hear -[4123.22 --> 4124.46] one of these two things. -[4126.38 --> 4127.42] Holding people -[4127.42 --> 4127.96] accountable -[4127.96 --> 4128.88] for their sin -[4128.88 --> 4130.92] is not an excuse -[4130.92 --> 4131.72] for us to be -[4131.72 --> 4132.34] tactless -[4132.34 --> 4133.32] and crass -[4133.32 --> 4134.48] when we engage people -[4134.48 --> 4135.06] about the way -[4135.06 --> 4135.70] they may be living -[4135.70 --> 4136.24] their lives. -[4137.24 --> 4137.92] So just because -[4137.92 --> 4138.90] truths need to be -[4138.90 --> 4139.20] said, -[4139.60 --> 4140.28] they still need -[4140.28 --> 4140.70] to be said -[4140.70 --> 4141.22] with love. -[4142.12 --> 4142.80] They still need -[4142.80 --> 4143.16] to be said -[4143.16 --> 4143.86] with patience -[4143.86 --> 4144.72] and kindness -[4144.72 --> 4145.60] and humility -[4145.60 --> 4146.70] and gentleness. -[4146.96 --> 4149.24] This love is law -[4149.24 --> 4150.06] that Paul -[4150.06 --> 4150.92] is getting at here -[4150.92 --> 4152.36] is not carte blanche -[4152.36 --> 4152.94] for us -[4152.94 --> 4153.90] to say whatever -[4153.90 --> 4154.54] you want, -[4154.88 --> 4155.80] however you want, -[4156.10 --> 4157.16] as if the truth -[4157.16 --> 4158.04] of the situation -[4158.04 --> 4159.10] supersedes -[4159.10 --> 4160.24] the lack of self-control -[4160.24 --> 4161.26] that we might possess -[4161.26 --> 4162.62] to converse properly. -[4164.20 --> 4164.72] Again, -[4164.84 --> 4165.78] love is still patient. -[4166.30 --> 4167.26] It is still kind. -[4167.40 --> 4168.26] It is still gentle. -[4168.26 --> 4170.30] Read 1 Corinthians 13. -[4170.98 --> 4172.26] Love is all of those things -[4172.26 --> 4173.34] in those conversations. -[4175.00 --> 4175.56] However, -[4176.56 --> 4178.64] it also means -[4178.64 --> 4179.22] that if someone -[4179.22 --> 4179.82] who claims -[4179.82 --> 4180.48] to love the Lord -[4180.48 --> 4181.28] is living outside -[4181.28 --> 4182.16] of the parameters -[4182.16 --> 4184.06] of God's bar -[4184.06 --> 4184.74] of holiness, -[4185.40 --> 4186.62] if they are willfully -[4186.62 --> 4187.68] disobeying -[4187.68 --> 4188.88] the order -[4188.88 --> 4189.44] and commands -[4189.44 --> 4190.14] that God has placed -[4190.14 --> 4191.00] on all of us, -[4191.00 --> 4193.36] in order to love them, -[4194.00 --> 4196.04] we may need -[4196.04 --> 4196.92] to call them out -[4196.92 --> 4198.10] on their sin -[4198.10 --> 4198.64] and risk -[4198.64 --> 4199.44] offending them. -[4201.12 --> 4201.84] Our culture -[4201.84 --> 4202.56] can oftentimes -[4202.56 --> 4203.76] deem that -[4203.76 --> 4204.70] as harmful behavior, -[4204.82 --> 4205.46] but that is not -[4205.46 --> 4206.28] the kind of harm -[4206.28 --> 4206.62] that Paul -[4206.62 --> 4207.62] is referring to here. -[4208.40 --> 4209.68] Love does no harm -[4209.68 --> 4210.44] to a neighbor -[4210.44 --> 4212.42] because love -[4212.42 --> 4213.54] is the fulfillment -[4213.54 --> 4215.06] of the law. -[4215.06 --> 4217.74] I pray that you -[4217.74 --> 4218.66] see the difference there -[4218.66 --> 4219.46] and I pray that you -[4219.46 --> 4220.26] simply don't side -[4220.26 --> 4221.02] with the one side -[4221.02 --> 4221.98] that you agree with more, -[4222.22 --> 4222.60] but you actually -[4222.60 --> 4223.32] look into your heart -[4223.32 --> 4223.66] and you see, -[4224.00 --> 4224.62] how is God -[4224.62 --> 4225.42] calling me -[4225.42 --> 4226.28] to love -[4226.28 --> 4227.16] my neighbor? -[4228.72 --> 4229.50] How is God -[4229.50 --> 4230.08] calling me -[4230.08 --> 4230.72] to love -[4230.72 --> 4231.32] those -[4231.32 --> 4232.56] around me? -[4232.56 --> 4236.58] And so, -[4236.72 --> 4237.26] we are called -[4237.26 --> 4238.44] to a selfless, -[4238.92 --> 4239.68] unconditional, -[4240.20 --> 4241.74] all-encompassing love -[4241.74 --> 4243.28] worthy of our time, -[4243.58 --> 4244.30] our money, -[4244.60 --> 4245.44] our energy, -[4245.68 --> 4246.22] our efforts, -[4246.32 --> 4246.64] and really -[4246.64 --> 4247.58] all of our lives -[4247.58 --> 4248.54] because people -[4248.54 --> 4249.34] are worth it. -[4249.42 --> 4250.60] People are valued -[4250.60 --> 4251.64] and we are not just -[4251.64 --> 4253.06] to show -[4253.06 --> 4255.62] this high calling -[4255.62 --> 4256.02] of love -[4256.02 --> 4256.84] to our friends -[4256.84 --> 4257.48] and families -[4257.48 --> 4258.04] and care groups, -[4258.14 --> 4258.88] but we're also called -[4258.88 --> 4259.50] to show this -[4259.50 --> 4260.88] high calling -[4260.88 --> 4261.46] of love -[4261.46 --> 4262.42] to our government -[4262.42 --> 4262.82] leaders, -[4263.14 --> 4263.70] our enemies, -[4264.18 --> 4264.66] the homeless -[4264.66 --> 4265.44] on our streets, -[4265.72 --> 4266.42] the fellow church -[4266.42 --> 4266.72] growers, -[4266.86 --> 4267.38] no matter what -[4267.38 --> 4267.92] disagreements -[4267.92 --> 4268.52] we may have -[4268.52 --> 4268.92] with them, -[4269.72 --> 4271.40] and if you're -[4271.40 --> 4272.16] sitting there -[4272.16 --> 4273.36] thinking, -[4274.34 --> 4274.92] jeepers, -[4275.30 --> 4276.20] that is a lot, -[4277.50 --> 4277.82] yeah, -[4279.18 --> 4280.18] you're tracking -[4280.18 --> 4281.04] with this perfectly. -[4281.20 --> 4282.58] This is a very -[4282.58 --> 4284.26] overwhelming call -[4284.26 --> 4286.64] and this is, -[4286.80 --> 4287.44] by all intents -[4287.44 --> 4288.04] and purposes, -[4289.86 --> 4291.00] impossible for us. -[4292.42 --> 4293.86] but it's not -[4293.86 --> 4295.46] impossible for Christ. -[4296.48 --> 4296.64] See, -[4296.72 --> 4298.08] only Christ's love -[4298.08 --> 4298.94] is perfect. -[4299.08 --> 4300.16] Only Christ's love -[4300.16 --> 4301.28] was completely -[4301.28 --> 4302.72] self-sacrificing. -[4302.82 --> 4303.72] Only Christ's love -[4303.72 --> 4304.80] was the selfless, -[4305.24 --> 4305.98] unconditional, -[4306.42 --> 4307.80] all-encompassing love -[4307.80 --> 4309.14] that he endured, -[4309.20 --> 4310.16] not just in his life, -[4310.36 --> 4311.20] but in his death -[4311.20 --> 4312.44] on the cross. -[4312.62 --> 4313.96] Christ lived this -[4313.96 --> 4314.84] out perfectly. -[4315.26 --> 4316.32] He fulfilled the law. -[4316.52 --> 4317.68] He loved flawlessly -[4317.68 --> 4319.90] so that we -[4319.90 --> 4321.12] can love -[4321.12 --> 4321.70] too. -[4323.06 --> 4323.26] See, -[4323.34 --> 4324.04] Jesus lived -[4324.04 --> 4324.56] this life -[4324.56 --> 4325.02] that we've been -[4325.02 --> 4325.58] called to live -[4325.58 --> 4326.30] and then he died -[4326.30 --> 4326.98] the death -[4326.98 --> 4327.84] that you and I -[4327.84 --> 4328.38] and all of us -[4328.38 --> 4329.54] deserved to die -[4329.54 --> 4330.10] and he did that -[4330.10 --> 4330.84] in our place, -[4331.00 --> 4332.06] bearing the weight -[4332.06 --> 4332.68] of the sin -[4332.68 --> 4333.20] of the world -[4333.20 --> 4333.96] on his shoulders -[4333.96 --> 4334.94] and taking it -[4334.94 --> 4335.50] to the grave. -[4335.68 --> 4336.92] But three days later, -[4337.28 --> 4338.42] Jesus rose again -[4338.42 --> 4339.94] from the grave. -[4340.06 --> 4340.94] He defeated sin -[4340.94 --> 4341.34] and death -[4341.34 --> 4342.50] once and for all. -[4342.50 --> 4346.06] And now he has given us -[4346.06 --> 4347.60] freedom and grace -[4347.60 --> 4348.46] and mercy. -[4348.90 --> 4350.08] Now we can live this life -[4350.08 --> 4350.98] knowing full well -[4350.98 --> 4352.12] that we are redeemed -[4352.12 --> 4352.64] in him -[4352.64 --> 4355.20] because he loved us first. -[4356.10 --> 4356.84] Now not only -[4356.84 --> 4358.26] is our debt paid, -[4358.64 --> 4359.72] but we have been granted -[4359.72 --> 4361.36] the kingdom of God. -[4361.48 --> 4362.84] We are co-heirs -[4362.84 --> 4363.52] with Christ. -[4363.66 --> 4364.64] We are successors -[4364.64 --> 4366.10] to his eternal kingdom, -[4366.30 --> 4367.46] clothed in righteousness -[4367.46 --> 4368.84] and viewed by our -[4368.84 --> 4369.68] heavenly father -[4369.68 --> 4371.66] as pure and spotless. -[4371.66 --> 4372.92] And it's all because -[4372.92 --> 4374.56] of the unconditional, -[4374.82 --> 4376.02] all-encompassing love -[4376.02 --> 4376.94] of Jesus. -[4378.40 --> 4379.96] And so as overwhelming -[4379.96 --> 4380.76] as the call -[4380.76 --> 4381.88] to love all of those -[4381.88 --> 4382.78] around us -[4382.78 --> 4384.92] may be, -[4386.10 --> 4388.36] how much more overwhelming -[4388.36 --> 4389.62] is the gift of grace -[4389.62 --> 4390.26] and mercy -[4390.26 --> 4390.94] and righteousness -[4390.94 --> 4391.96] and eternal life -[4391.96 --> 4392.90] that we receive -[4392.90 --> 4393.52] from our Savior? -[4394.96 --> 4395.84] It's no wonder -[4395.84 --> 4396.58] we're indebted -[4396.58 --> 4398.22] to love those -[4398.22 --> 4399.08] around us forever -[4399.08 --> 4399.72] for the debt -[4399.72 --> 4400.92] that has been paid -[4400.92 --> 4401.48] for us -[4401.48 --> 4402.74] also can never -[4402.74 --> 4403.42] be repaid. -[4404.42 --> 4405.46] We are indebted -[4405.46 --> 4406.38] to love others -[4406.38 --> 4406.98] forever because -[4406.98 --> 4407.76] our debt -[4407.76 --> 4409.02] has been paid -[4409.02 --> 4409.98] in full -[4409.98 --> 4411.24] in Christ Jesus. -[4412.58 --> 4413.98] Our calling then -[4413.98 --> 4416.02] is to go out -[4416.02 --> 4417.24] and show others -[4417.24 --> 4418.24] this love of Christ, -[4418.38 --> 4420.02] not for our salvation's sake, -[4420.28 --> 4420.98] but because -[4420.98 --> 4422.04] we have already -[4422.04 --> 4422.68] been saved, -[4423.02 --> 4424.14] because we have already -[4424.14 --> 4425.22] been given salvation. -[4426.78 --> 4426.94] See, -[4427.00 --> 4427.72] Jesus is not -[4427.72 --> 4429.04] only the example -[4429.04 --> 4430.22] of love for us, -[4430.30 --> 4431.94] but he's the means -[4431.94 --> 4433.58] by which we can love. -[4434.72 --> 4435.46] Through him -[4435.46 --> 4436.04] we are able -[4436.04 --> 4436.74] to show -[4436.74 --> 4437.78] that love -[4437.78 --> 4438.58] to those around us. -[4438.64 --> 4439.62] It's because of Christ, -[4439.80 --> 4440.74] it's through Christ, -[4440.82 --> 4441.86] and it's by Christ -[4441.86 --> 4443.00] that we can live out -[4443.00 --> 4443.60] this love -[4443.60 --> 4444.78] to those around us. -[4444.78 --> 4445.50] It's all Christ. -[4446.78 --> 4448.00] He is in all, -[4448.42 --> 4449.36] he is through all, -[4449.46 --> 4450.62] and he is the reason -[4450.62 --> 4451.44] we can love. -[4451.54 --> 4453.00] Christ is with you. -[4453.50 --> 4454.46] You can fulfill -[4454.46 --> 4455.36] this call to love -[4455.36 --> 4457.82] because of him. -[4458.66 --> 4459.88] Be blessed by this. -[4460.40 --> 4461.38] Christ is with you, -[4461.90 --> 4462.72] Christ before you, -[4462.82 --> 4463.64] Christ behind you, -[4463.78 --> 4464.44] Christ in you, -[4464.56 --> 4465.44] Christ beneath you, -[4465.68 --> 4466.46] Christ above you, -[4466.58 --> 4467.32] Christ on your right, -[4467.48 --> 4468.28] Christ on your left, -[4468.64 --> 4469.56] Christ when you lie down, -[4469.72 --> 4470.42] Christ when you sit, -[4470.58 --> 4471.36] Christ when you arise, -[4471.50 --> 4472.50] Christ in the heart -[4472.50 --> 4473.54] of every man -[4473.54 --> 4474.20] who thinks of you, -[4474.30 --> 4475.44] Christ in the mouth -[4475.44 --> 4476.30] of everyone -[4476.30 --> 4477.04] who speaks of you, -[4477.28 --> 4477.92] Christ in the eye -[4477.92 --> 4478.36] of everyone -[4478.36 --> 4479.36] who sees you, -[4479.74 --> 4481.38] Christ in every ear -[4481.38 --> 4482.66] that hears you. -[4483.92 --> 4485.00] It's all Christ. -[4485.36 --> 4488.56] Christ loves you -[4488.56 --> 4491.22] and Christ allows you to love -[4491.22 --> 4494.36] and so hear these words -[4494.36 --> 4496.98] our debt is paid -[4496.98 --> 4499.56] and our death's been died -[4499.56 --> 4501.62] you are free -[4501.62 --> 4503.40] you're free to love -[4503.40 --> 4505.76] because that is the only response -[4505.76 --> 4507.80] to the love of Christ for you and for me -[4507.80 --> 4510.00] we're free to love -[4510.00 --> 4514.12] because it is impossible to love too much -[4514.12 --> 4515.62] amen -[4515.62 --> 4517.14] please pray with me -[4517.14 --> 4519.38] Father in heaven -[4519.38 --> 4522.22] you have lived the perfect life -[4522.22 --> 4523.58] of love for us -[4523.58 --> 4525.74] and in doing so you died a death -[4525.74 --> 4527.40] on the cross that all of us deserved -[4527.40 --> 4530.20] but you defeated sin and death -[4530.20 --> 4532.66] and are now not just the example -[4532.66 --> 4534.22] of love for us all to follow -[4534.22 --> 4535.92] but you are the means by which -[4535.92 --> 4537.72] we can go and love those around us -[4537.72 --> 4540.32] and so God we pray in whatever context -[4540.32 --> 4541.44] we find ourselves in -[4541.44 --> 4543.72] in whether it's our homes -[4543.72 --> 4544.86] in our social circles -[4544.86 --> 4545.98] in our workplaces -[4545.98 --> 4549.54] in any situation we find ourselves in this week -[4549.54 --> 4552.48] God that you will shine out of us -[4552.48 --> 4554.82] that your love will shine out of us -[4554.82 --> 4555.96] and you will be glorified -[4555.96 --> 4558.06] by how we love those around us -[4558.06 --> 4560.28] may that be the conviction of our hearts -[4560.28 --> 4561.96] going out of this place today -[4561.96 --> 4564.16] as we go into the world -[4564.16 --> 4566.00] Lord we think of those who are elsewhere -[4566.00 --> 4567.40] those who are going into the world -[4567.40 --> 4568.60] that there are Mexico team -[4568.60 --> 4569.82] the many other missions teams -[4569.82 --> 4571.08] that are out and about -[4571.08 --> 4572.00] and traveling right now -[4572.00 --> 4573.72] God may love reign -[4573.72 --> 4575.60] in their lives as well -[4575.60 --> 4578.64] and may we show Christ's love -[4578.64 --> 4579.84] may we show your love -[4579.84 --> 4581.54] to the world around us -[4581.54 --> 4582.56] we pray in your name -[4582.56 --> 4583.20] Amen -[4583.20 --> 4589.38] Amen -[4589.42 --> 4591.20] Amen -[4591.20 --> 4594.88] Amen -[4594.88 --> 4597.18] Amen -[4597.18 --> 4598.56] Amen -[4598.58 --> 4608.94] Amen -[4608.94 --> 4625.80] My Lord, what love is this that pain so dearly -[4625.80 --> 4641.80] That I, the guilty one, may all be amazing love -[4641.80 --> 4650.80] Oh, what sacrifice, the sorrow of God in mourning -[4650.80 --> 4658.94] Oh, can you please, and my death be died -[4658.94 --> 4673.80] That I, the guilty one, may all be amazing -[4673.80 --> 4688.20] So, they watched the night, this night's rejected -[4688.20 --> 4702.20] My Lord, what life shall come for me -[4702.20 --> 4715.20] How amazing love, oh, what sacrifice, the sorrow of God in mourning -[4715.20 --> 4722.20] My dearly days and my dearly days -[4722.20 --> 4728.20] That I, the guilty one, may all be amazing -[4728.20 --> 4736.20] That I, the guilty one, may all be amazing -[4736.20 --> 4746.20] And I, this love of Christ -[4746.20 --> 4753.20] Shall hold my rivers -[4753.20 --> 4766.20] Come walk, oh, what sacrifice, the sorrow of God in mourning -[4766.20 --> 4779.20] Come here to God, oh, what sacrifice, the sorrow of God in mourning -[4779.20 --> 4785.20] My dearly days and my merry days -[4785.20 --> 4792.20] And I, the guilty one, may all be amazing -[4792.20 --> 4798.20] And I, the guilty one, may all be amazing -[4798.20 --> 4816.20] And so as we go from this place, we remember that gift of love -[4816.20 --> 4818.76] That amazing love that Christ has shown us -[4818.76 --> 4821.14] And may we go and show that to others -[4821.14 --> 4823.96] If you need prayer this morning, there will be a prayer person up front here -[4823.96 --> 4825.32] With a yellow name tag -[4825.32 --> 4828.06] Please feel free to go up to them and seek prayer -[4828.06 --> 4829.26] Those can be prayers of blessing -[4829.26 --> 4833.12] And of course prayers of things in need -[4833.12 --> 4836.46] And if you are looking for prayer but don't want to come up -[4836.46 --> 4838.46] Talk to your neighbor, I'm sure they'll pray for you too -[4838.46 --> 4842.28] Now, if you will join us after the service for some refreshments -[4842.28 --> 4843.84] That would be awesome as well -[4843.84 --> 4846.74] But before we go, please hear this priestly blessing -[4846.74 --> 4848.48] Found in Numbers 6 -[4848.48 --> 4853.10] The Lord bless you and keep you -[4853.10 --> 4855.96] The Lord make His face shine upon you -[4855.96 --> 4857.22] And be gracious to you -[4857.22 --> 4859.84] The Lord turn His face toward you -[4859.84 --> 4861.82] And give you His peace -[4861.82 --> 4863.94] And all of God's people say -[4863.94 --> 4864.84] Amen -[4865.04 --> 4892.28] We are of those -[4892.28 --> 4894.28] Oh -[4922.28 --> 4924.28] Oh -[4952.28 --> 4954.28] Oh -[4982.28 --> 4984.28] Oh -[5012.28 --> 5014.28] Oh -[5042.28 --> 5044.28] Oh -[5072.28 --> 5074.28] Oh -[5074.28 --> 5076.28] Oh -[5076.28 --> 5078.28] Oh -[5102.28 --> 5104.28] Oh -[5122.78 --> 5124.78] Oh -[5132.28 --> 5162.26] Thank you. -[5162.28 --> 5165.74] Thank you. -[5192.28 --> 5222.26] Thank you. -[5222.28 --> 5252.26] Thank you. -[5252.28 --> 5282.26] Thank you. -[5282.28 --> 5312.26] Thank you. -[5312.28 --> 5342.26] Thank you. -[5342.28 --> 5372.26] Thank you. -[5372.28 --> 5402.26] Thank you. -[5402.28 --> 5432.26] Thank you. -[5432.28 --> 5462.26] Thank you. -[5462.28 --> 5492.26] Thank you. -[5492.28 --> 5522.26] Thank you. -[5522.28 --> 5552.26] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, March 24, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, March 24, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 92a9f4a6401fefc563c9f0ae3f5b40c4ba99c6bf..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, March 24, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,98 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction to worship service -• Call to sing and pray -• Singing of "Hosanna" and other hymns -• Worship service transitions to a specific segment (Bowerheads) -• Invitation for attendees to find their places and participate -• Praying for enemies and loving them -• Asking for help to live a sacrificial life -• Prayer for the kingdom of God to come and will to be done -• Singing new songs to God and proclaiming His mercy -• Acknowledging Jesus' strength, power, and salvation -• Praising Christ's resurrection and glory -• Lifting God's name higher -• Praise and worship songs referencing God's mercy, love, and power -• Description of God as the "King of kings" and "Lord God Almighty" -• Mention of creation singing praise to God -• References to Jesus' name being a source of wonder and awe -• Discussion of salvation and redemption through God's sacrifice -• Introduction to Union Gospel Missions (UGM) and their work in the community -• Praise and thanksgiving for God's presence and love in one's life -• Spring break and school cancellation -• Children's worship time discussion about Good Friday -• Questioning the kids about accidents or injuries during spring break -• Discussion of Jesus' suffering on Good Friday, including physical and emotional abuse -• Church family prayer led by Sam, including condolences and prayers for several individuals -• Prayer requests for various people facing health issues and challenges -• Continuation of grief for personal losses -• Request for new leadership in the church -• Reading from Isaiah chapter on God's power and authority -• Reading from Matthew 21:23-27 about Jesus' authority -• Discussion on making decisions and valuing what is important despite opposition or hardship -• Connection to Palm Sunday theme of Jesus' triumphal entry and declaration of authority -• The triumphal entry in Matthew 21 announces Jesus as king and Messiah -• Jesus sees into the future due to his divine perspective as ruler of the universe -• Jesus' kingship is confirmed through Old Testament prophecy (Zechariah 9) -• Jesus' kingdom is a spiritual kingdom that brings peace and extends from sea to sea -• The significance of Jesus being called "king" is emphasized throughout Matthew's gospel account -• Hosanna is a transliteration of a Hebrew word meaning "O Lord, save us" -• The phrase "Hosanna to the son of David" was a title of royal acclamation and theological statement about Jesus' identity -• Psalm 118 emerged in Jewish worship as a psalm of hope for the coming Messiah king -• The triumphal entry is seen as the announcement of Jesus as the Messiah, savior of the world, and king in the line of David -• Three responses to Jesus are demonstrated: praise (Hosanna), questioning ("Who is this?"), and rejection -• The question "Who is Jesus?" determines one's trajectory and significance in life -• The value of life beyond individual existence -• The concept of a king or ruler and its relation to purpose -• Meaning in life, particularly in modern times and philosophy -• Relationship with Jesus Christ as the source of ultimate meaning and good -• The response to Jesus' arrival, including both acceptance and rejection -• The importance of understanding who Jesus is -• Jesus challenges people's presumptions of power and privilege -• Indignation is a common response to being challenged by Jesus or questioning his identity -• People often spend their lives building up systems of thought, power, and purpose that are challenged by Jesus -• The default reaction to being confronted with the truth about one's idols is rage or indignation -• Idols are anything created and given meaning and purpose that should only be found in God; they can be good things turned into ultimate things. -• Sin causes idolatry by creating a void in the heart that must be filled -• Idolatry is rebelling against God and casting off one's relationship with Him -• When Jesus challenges our idols, we often respond with indignation or pride -• The chief priests and elders questioned Jesus' authority, but their response was not described as indignant or proud -• The fear of skepticism and doubt in churches can lead to a culture where questions are discouraged. -• Asking hard questions about Jesus and his identity is a good thing, and Jesus can handle these questions. -• Skepticism itself is a good thing and should not be feared. -• The story of Jesus questioning the Pharisees highlights the importance of critical thinking and asking questions. -• Jesus' ability to create the world with just a word demonstrates that he can handle people's doubts and hard questions. -• Different people are referred to as possible identities of Jesus (John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah, etc.) -• Jesus asks his followers who he is -• Simon Peter answers that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God -• Questions and skepticism are necessary for faith -• The refusal to commit to an answer is a problem in understanding who Jesus is -• Jesus' identity has been made clear throughout his teachings -• There is no excuse for not knowing who Jesus is in modern culture, except willful ignorance -• Pandemic of biblical illiteracy in the church today -• Connection between Jesus and values being challenged or going against societal norms -• Story of Jesus cursing the fig tree as an example of his authority and power -• Disciples' amazement at the tree's immediate withering and its implications for understanding who Jesus is -• Jesus is asleep on a boat during a storm and the disciples are terrified -• Jesus wakes up and asks the disciples what their faith is in -• The storm dies down immediately after Jesus tells it to be still -• The men are amazed by Jesus' power over nature -• Profession of faith or baptism is discussed as an important step in acknowledging Jesus as one's Messiah and King -• A prayer is said, inviting listeners to stand and acknowledge Jesus as Holy Lord, Holy Messiah, King Jesus. -• The speaker's prayer for those in indignation and questioning faith -• Prayer for skeptics and those struggling with doubt -• Affirming Jesus as King and Lord, praying to worship Him forever -• Adding voices to the church throughout time praising Jesus as King -• Hosanna to Jesus as Son of David and the highest heaven -• Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord -• Worship and praise for Jesus Christ -• Palm branches as a symbol of journeying with Jesus to the cross -• Invitation to display palm branches at home or door -• Journeying with Jesus to the cross, and the hope of Sunday's resurrection -• Picking up Mexico mission team -• Blessings from God, including protection, support, and friendship -• Hymn singing and declaration of Jesus as King and Lamb -• References to the divine, including "God" and "the King of all kings" -• Mention of Geralt -• Unintelligible phrases such as "Vice順" and "Ludλ" -• References to power and authority, including "kings" and "reign" -• Various abstract concepts mentioned in passing, including "fear", "glow", and "conservation" -• Names mentioned include "Kristen", "Flynn", and "Geralt" \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, March 24, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, March 24, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a38451047541009af1eafc4a7b69b655bd119cca..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, March 24, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1636 +0,0 @@ -[0.38 --> 5.68] Excuse me. -[5.68 --> 11.00] And then it's gonna come out. -[20.16 --> 23.02] I should have this thing with a friend. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 599.98] Thank you. -[600.00 --> 629.98] Thank you. -[630.00 --> 659.98] Thank you. -[660.00 --> 689.98] Thank you. -[690.00 --> 719.98] Thank you. -[720.00 --> 749.98] Thank you. -[750.00 --> 779.98] Thank you. -[780.00 --> 809.98] Thank you. -[810.00 --> 839.98] Thank you. -[840.00 --> 869.98] Thank you. -[870.00 --> 899.98] Thank you. -[900.00 --> 929.98] Thank you. -[930.00 --> 959.98] Thank you. -[960.00 --> 989.98] Thank you. -[990.00 --> 1019.98] Thank you. -[1020.00 --> 1049.98] Thank you. -[1050.00 --> 1079.98] Thank you. -[1080.00 --> 1109.98] Thank you. -[1110.00 --> 1139.98] Thank you. -[1140.00 --> 1169.98] Thank you. -[1170.00 --> 1199.98] Thank you. -[1200.00 --> 1229.98] Thank you. -[1230.00 --> 1259.98] Thank you. -[1260.00 --> 1289.98] Thank you. -[1290.00 --> 1319.98] Thank you. -[1320.00 --> 1350.00] Good morning. -[1350.00 --> 1379.98] And we have you. -[1379.98 --> 1409.96] Thank you. -[1409.96 --> 1439.94] Before we begin. -[1439.94 --> 1469.94] Thank you. -[1469.94 --> 1499.94] Kevin is on. -[1499.94 --> 1529.92] We have you. -[1529.92 --> 1559.90] And so we're going to put you. -[1559.90 --> 1589.90] your friends. -[1589.90 --> 1619.88] We're doing our time together. -[1619.88 --> 1649.88] to those around you. -[1649.88 --> 1651.88] Amen. -[1679.88 --> 1709.86] Our call to worship. -[1709.86 --> 1739.84] as we're going to do. -[1739.84 --> 1769.84] 2, -[1769.84 --> 1799.82] Hosanna, we're going to do. -[1799.82 --> 1801.82] glory to the King of the King of the King. -[1829.82 --> 1857.82] with the singing, we're going to pray, -[1857.82 --> 1861.74] afraid? Who can do it? -[1862.88 --> 1864.96] Yes! Come on up and show us. -[1865.86 --> 1869.82] More. Yeah, Emma. Yeah, yeah. -[1870.48 --> 1873.48] Come on up. Alright. -[1873.88 --> 1878.04] We're going to sing another song and you guys can show us how exactly to do it, okay? -[1887.82 --> 1889.82] Amen. -[1917.82 --> 1920.62] We're fighting for you. -[1922.08 --> 1924.20] We are the news. -[1926.08 --> 1932.00] Because when we see you, we find strength to face the day. -[1934.16 --> 1939.82] And in your presence, all our fears are washed away. -[1939.82 --> 1941.82] Washed away. -[1941.82 --> 1951.02] Hosanna! Hosanna! -[1951.96 --> 1955.64] You are the God who saves us. -[1956.18 --> 1959.02] Worthy of all our praises. -[1961.02 --> 1966.86] Hosanna! Hosanna! -[1966.86 --> 1968.18] You are the Son ofyima! -[1968.18 --> 1971.46] Come on up your way upon us. -[1971.84 --> 1974.98] We welcome you here, Lord Jesus. -[1977.18 --> 1987.54] Hear the sound of hearts returning to you. -[1989.04 --> 1991.28] Return to you. -[1991.28 --> 1998.10] In your kingdom -[1998.10 --> 2003.76] Broken lives are made new -[2003.76 --> 2007.66] You make us new -[2007.66 --> 2011.78] When we see you -[2011.78 --> 2015.62] We find strength to face the day -[2015.62 --> 2019.20] In your presence -[2019.20 --> 2023.26] All our fears are washed away -[2023.26 --> 2025.82] Washed away -[2025.82 --> 2030.66] Hosanna -[2030.66 --> 2034.32] Hosanna -[2034.32 --> 2038.92] You are the God who saves us -[2038.92 --> 2042.34] Worthy of all our praises -[2042.34 --> 2045.54] Hosanna -[2045.54 --> 2050.12] Hosanna -[2050.12 --> 2054.70] Come on your way among us -[2054.70 --> 2058.16] We welcome you here, Lord Jesus -[2058.16 --> 2062.20] Hosanna -[2062.20 --> 2066.02] Hosanna -[2066.02 --> 2070.66] You are the God who saves us -[2070.66 --> 2074.46] Worthy of all our praises -[2074.46 --> 2077.04] Hosanna -[2077.04 --> 2079.04] Hosanna -[2079.04 --> 2081.04] Hosanna -[2081.04 --> 2086.72] Come on your way among us -[2086.72 --> 2090.30] We welcome you here, Lord Jesus -[2090.30 --> 2094.88] Hosanna -[2094.88 --> 2098.88] Hosanna -[2098.88 --> 2100.20] It's Bowerheads. -[2101.20 --> 2105.12] Oh, I'll give you the kids a minute to find their places back. -[2112.56 --> 2113.74] All right, it's Bowerheads. -[2116.90 --> 2120.52] Once again, Lord, we find ourselves doing a heart check. -[2121.62 --> 2124.38] We've just shouted Hosanna with the crowds in Jerusalem. -[2125.30 --> 2129.26] We wanted to see you come into our lives to crush our enemies. -[2129.96 --> 2134.18] We weren't ready to hear you tell us that we should be loving our enemies, -[2135.74 --> 2137.46] praying for our enemies. -[2139.38 --> 2146.16] We know in our minds that this is the kind of sacrificial love you ask of us, -[2146.94 --> 2150.84] but our hearts just can't do it without your help. -[2150.84 --> 2154.62] Father, through the power of your Holy Spirit, -[2155.58 --> 2159.20] soften our hearts so we can live as new creations -[2159.20 --> 2163.00] with hearts that long to please you. -[2163.96 --> 2166.68] Help us walk in the power of your love. -[2167.22 --> 2167.46] Amen. -[2167.46 --> 2168.68] Amen. -[2168.68 --> 2192.86] Oh, Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. -[2193.46 --> 2197.86] Come and let your glory come and let your glory come. -[2198.68 --> 2208.68] Oh, Father, who art in heaven, the rocks cry out your fame. -[2208.68 --> 2214.68] Help and let your glory come and let your glory come. -[2214.68 --> 2244.68] -[2244.68 --> 2248.68] On earth as it is in heaven. -[2248.68 --> 2264.68] God give us new every morning, mercy as daily bread. -[2264.68 --> 2294.68] -[2294.68 --> 2298.76] Sing a new song, I will sing. -[2298.92 --> 2304.28] Sing a new song to the Lord. -[2304.68 --> 2308.52] Let your kingdom come and let your will be done. -[2308.52 --> 2312.38] On earth as it is in heaven. -[2312.68 --> 2316.70] Every heart proclaim the mercy of your name. -[2317.00 --> 2320.22] On earth as it is in heaven. -[2320.22 --> 2328.22] For the kingdom is yours and the power is yours and the glory forever. Amen. -[2328.22 --> 2343.68] For the kingdom is yours and the power is yours and the glory forever. Amen. -[2343.68 --> 2355.68] Let your kingdom come and let your will be done. -[2355.68 --> 2359.68] On earth as it is in heaven. -[2359.68 --> 2363.68] Every heart proclaim the mercy of your name. -[2363.68 --> 2367.68] On earth as it is in heaven. -[2367.68 --> 2371.68] Let your kingdom come and let your will be done. -[2371.68 --> 2375.68] On earth as it is in heaven. -[2375.68 --> 2380.68] Every heart proclaim the mercy of your name. -[2380.68 --> 2385.68] On earth as it is in heaven. -[2385.68 --> 2389.68] Amen. -[2389.68 --> 2391.68] Amen. -[2391.68 --> 2393.68] Amen. -[2393.68 --> 2395.68] Amen. -[2395.68 --> 2397.68] Amen. -[2397.68 --> 2399.68] Amen. -[2399.68 --> 2401.68] Amen. -[2401.68 --> 2403.68] Amen. -[2403.68 --> 2404.68] Amen. -[2404.68 --> 2425.68] Amen. -[2425.68 --> 2426.68] Amen. -[2430.68 --> 2432.68] Amen. -[2432.68 --> 2446.28] a sinner's cross he broke my shame and sinfulness he rose again victorious -[2453.24 --> 2462.28] faithfulness none can deny through the storm and through the fire -[2462.68 --> 2472.12] there is truth that sets me free jesus christ who lives in me -[2475.56 --> 2480.12] you are stronger you are stronger -[2480.12 --> 2485.16] sin is broken you have saved me -[2485.16 --> 2492.60] in his vision christ is -[2492.60 --> 2504.04] no beginning -[2504.04 --> 2506.04] and no end -[2506.04 --> 2511.48] you're my hope and my defense -[2511.48 --> 2515.48] you came to seek and save the lost -[2515.48 --> 2517.48] you did it all -[2517.48 --> 2521.48] upon the cross -[2521.48 --> 2528.92] you are stronger you are stronger -[2528.92 --> 2530.92] sin is broken -[2530.92 --> 2532.92] you have saved me -[2532.92 --> 2534.92] it is written -[2534.92 --> 2536.92] christ is risen -[2536.92 --> 2538.92] jesus -[2538.92 --> 2542.92] you are lord of all -[2542.92 --> 2552.36] so let your name be lifted -[2552.36 --> 2554.36] higher -[2554.36 --> 2556.36] be lifted -[2556.36 --> 2558.36] higher -[2558.36 --> 2560.36] so let your name -[2560.36 --> 2562.36] be lifted -[2562.36 --> 2564.36] higher -[2564.36 --> 2573.80] higher -[2573.80 --> 2575.80] be lifted -[2575.80 --> 2577.80] higher -[2577.80 --> 2578.84] so let your name -[2578.84 --> 2579.80] be lifted -[2579.80 --> 2581.80] higher -[2581.80 --> 2583.80] be lifted -[2583.80 --> 2585.80] higher -[2585.80 --> 2587.24] higher -[2587.24 --> 2589.24] higher -[2589.24 --> 2591.24] you are stronger -[2591.24 --> 2593.24] you are stronger -[2593.24 --> 2595.24] you have saved -[2595.24 --> 2597.24] me -[2597.24 --> 2599.24] it is -[2599.24 --> 2601.24] christ is -[2601.24 --> 2603.24] jesus -[2603.24 --> 2605.24] you are -[2605.24 --> 2607.24] you are -[2607.24 --> 2609.24] stronger -[2609.24 --> 2611.24] you are -[2611.24 --> 2613.24] broken -[2613.24 --> 2618.68] you are -[2618.68 --> 2620.68] broken -[2620.68 --> 2622.68] you -[2622.68 --> 2624.68] have -[2624.68 --> 2626.68] saved -[2626.68 --> 2628.68] me -[2628.68 --> 2630.68] it is -[2630.68 --> 2632.68] written -[2632.68 --> 2634.68] jesus -[2634.68 --> 2636.68] you -[2636.68 --> 2638.68] are -[2638.68 --> 2652.12] you -[2652.12 --> 2656.12] lamb who was slain -[2656.12 --> 2658.12] holy holy is -[2658.12 --> 2662.12] he -[2662.12 --> 2666.12] sing a new song -[2666.12 --> 2668.12] to him who sits on -[2668.12 --> 2669.56] heaven's mercy -[2669.56 --> 2671.56] is -[2671.56 --> 2673.56] he -[2673.56 --> 2677.56] worthy is -[2677.56 --> 2679.56] love -[2679.56 --> 2681.56] lamb who was -[2681.56 --> 2683.56] slain -[2683.56 --> 2685.56] holy holy is -[2685.56 --> 2687.56] he -[2687.56 --> 2691.56] sing a new song -[2691.56 --> 2693.56] to him who sits on -[2693.56 --> 2695.56] heaven's -[2695.56 --> 2697.00] heaven's mercy -[2697.00 --> 2697.56] see -[2697.56 --> 2701.56] holy holy -[2701.56 --> 2703.56] holy holy -[2703.56 --> 2705.56] holy is -[2705.56 --> 2706.92] the lord god almighty -[2706.92 --> 2709.48] who was and is -[2709.48 --> 2711.00] and is to come -[2711.00 --> 2715.56] with all creation -[2715.56 --> 2717.56] i sing praise -[2717.56 --> 2719.56] to the king of kings -[2719.56 --> 2721.56] you -[2721.56 --> 2723.56] you are my everything -[2723.56 --> 2725.56] and i will -[2725.56 --> 2727.56] adore you -[2727.56 --> 2729.56] you -[2739.56 --> 2743.56] golden rain balls -[2743.56 --> 2745.56] of living color -[2745.56 --> 2747.56] flashes of lightning -[2747.56 --> 2749.56] rolls of thunder -[2749.56 --> 2751.56] and -[2751.56 --> 2752.56] the -[2752.56 --> 2753.56] blessing and honor -[2753.56 --> 2755.00] strength and -[2755.00 --> 2755.56] glory -[2755.56 --> 2756.56] and -[2756.56 --> 2757.56] glory -[2757.56 --> 2758.56] to you -[2758.56 --> 2759.56] the -[2759.56 --> 2760.56] only -[2760.56 --> 2761.56] wise -[2761.56 --> 2763.56] king -[2763.56 --> 2765.56] holy -[2765.56 --> 2766.56] holy holy -[2766.56 --> 2767.56] holy -[2767.56 --> 2768.56] is -[2768.56 --> 2769.56] the lord god -[2769.56 --> 2770.56] almighty -[2770.56 --> 2771.56] who was -[2771.56 --> 2772.56] and is -[2772.56 --> 2773.56] and is -[2773.56 --> 2777.56] with the -[2777.56 --> 2779.48] people -[2779.48 --> 2782.56] to part -[2782.56 --> 2782.98] whom -[2782.98 --> 2783.88] and -[2783.88 --> 2786.56] i will -[2786.56 --> 2788.56] adore -[2788.56 --> 2792.56] you -[2792.56 --> 2797.56] wed -[2797.56 --> 2798.56] love -[2798.56 --> 2799.56] fall -[2799.56 --> 2801.36] and -[2801.36 --> 2814.70] Filled with wonder, awestruck wonder, at the mention of your name. -[2815.54 --> 2827.04] Filled with wonder, awestruck wonder, at the mention of your name. -[2827.04 --> 2838.48] Jesus, your name is God, breath and living water, such a marvelous mystery. -[2841.82 --> 2851.30] Holy, holy, holy, the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come. -[2851.30 --> 2859.30] With all creation I sing, praise to the King of kings. -[2860.48 --> 2865.30] You are my everything, and I will adore you. -[2867.30 --> 2876.30] Holy, holy, holy, the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come. -[2876.30 --> 2906.28] Holy, holy, holy, the Lord Almighty, who was and is and is to come. -[2906.28 --> 2906.78] Amen. -[2918.26 --> 2922.16] Good morning. -[2922.76 --> 2925.64] Today's offering is for Union Gospel Missions. -[2926.58 --> 2934.88] UGM is a local ministry that works in communities by providing meals, education, shelter, safety, and affordable housing. -[2934.88 --> 2941.92] drug and alcohol recovery programs and support services to those struggling with homelessness and addiction. -[2942.46 --> 2949.24] They are also partners with Inland Northwest to reach the poor with the love and power of the gospel -[2949.24 --> 2953.44] so they may become God-dependent, contributing members of our society. -[2953.76 --> 2954.32] Thank you. -[2964.88 --> 2994.86] Thank you. -[2994.88 --> 2999.54] I'm so glad you're in my life. -[3000.70 --> 3006.02] I'm so glad you came to save us. -[3006.40 --> 3012.12] You came from heaven to earth to show the way. -[3012.46 --> 3017.82] From the earth to the cross, my debt to pay. -[3018.22 --> 3023.68] From the cross to the grave, from the grave to the sky. -[3023.68 --> 3027.50] Lord, I lift your name on high. -[3032.34 --> 3036.24] Lord, I lift your name on high. -[3038.08 --> 3041.50] Lord, I love to sing your praises. -[3041.50 --> 3046.16] I'm so glad you're in my life. -[3046.16 --> 3054.16] I'm so glad you came to save us. -[3054.16 --> 3060.98] You came from heaven to earth to show the way. -[3060.98 --> 3066.80] From the earth to the cross, my debt to pay. -[3066.80 --> 3068.80] From the cross to the grave. -[3068.80 --> 3072.62] From the grave to the sky. -[3072.62 --> 3074.62] Lord, I lift your name on high. -[3074.62 --> 3076.44] Lord, I lift your name on high. -[3076.44 --> 3083.84] You came from heaven to earth to show the way. -[3083.84 --> 3089.50] From the earth to the cross, my debt to pay. -[3089.66 --> 3092.42] From the cross to the grave. -[3092.42 --> 3095.24] From the grave to the sky. -[3095.24 --> 3099.24] Lord, I lift your name on high. -[3099.24 --> 3104.24] Lord, I lift your name on high. -[3104.24 --> 3113.54] So, my debt to love to sing yourếnowin' agua. -[3113.54 --> 3123.48] Okay, I'd like to invite all the kids up front for children's worship time. -[3133.34 --> 3137.20] So are these the last few kids that didn't get to go anywhere on spring break? -[3137.28 --> 3138.26] Is that what's going on here? -[3138.86 --> 3140.58] Yeah, I'm stuck at home too. -[3141.16 --> 3142.08] I know your pain. -[3142.08 --> 3144.40] How are you guys doing this morning? -[3144.46 --> 3144.98] Let me hear you. -[3145.76 --> 3147.40] All right, very good. -[3148.36 --> 3148.92] Do you? -[3149.26 --> 3150.18] Because no school? -[3151.94 --> 3152.52] Right on. -[3152.74 --> 3153.72] I got a question for you. -[3153.78 --> 3157.36] You guys have probably been playing outside for the last week because you've been away home from school. -[3157.44 --> 3163.48] Does anybody, did anybody get hurt this week playing outside, falling off your bike, your scooter, anything like that? -[3163.54 --> 3163.70] Yeah? -[3165.76 --> 3166.94] Blister from rollerblading? -[3167.04 --> 3167.38] How about you? -[3167.42 --> 3168.44] Did you get hurt this week? -[3170.08 --> 3170.48] Yeah. -[3170.48 --> 3170.56] Yeah. -[3172.08 --> 3174.14] Why is it just the boys putting their hands up here? -[3176.98 --> 3181.22] Does anybody have any road rash, any like, you know, scars or any of that kind of stuff? -[3183.12 --> 3183.48] Yeah. -[3183.54 --> 3184.34] You fell off your bike? -[3186.18 --> 3187.52] You almost fell off your scooter. -[3187.52 --> 3187.58] Easter. -[3188.02 --> 3191.28] Hey, who knows what's coming up next week, next weekend? -[3191.84 --> 3192.24] Easter. -[3192.68 --> 3194.68] And what happens on Friday at Easter? -[3196.18 --> 3196.90] Good Friday. -[3197.08 --> 3199.24] Good Friday, but what happens on that day? -[3199.30 --> 3199.94] He rises. -[3200.46 --> 3201.16] Jesus rises. -[3201.26 --> 3202.28] No, that's the Sunday. -[3202.36 --> 3203.34] What happens on the Friday? -[3203.72 --> 3204.38] We go to church. -[3204.52 --> 3205.32] We go to church. -[3205.38 --> 3205.92] Good answer. -[3208.30 --> 3208.78] Weekend. -[3208.88 --> 3209.54] Is it church? -[3209.54 --> 3211.44] That happens on Sunday. -[3211.44 --> 3212.76] On Friday, he gets. -[3213.56 --> 3214.26] That's right. -[3214.26 --> 3214.30] Right? -[3214.72 --> 3216.22] So, Jesus was. -[3216.96 --> 3219.74] He suffered a lot of hurt on that Friday. -[3219.94 --> 3220.20] He was. -[3220.28 --> 3224.36] People were, like, hitting him and spitting on him and not being very nice to him. -[3224.88 --> 3226.10] And also emotional. -[3226.80 --> 3227.74] A little bit of abuse. -[3227.84 --> 3227.98] Right? -[3228.02 --> 3230.02] People were yelling, saying not very nice things to him. -[3230.08 --> 3234.08] So, we're going to talk a bit about that in children's worship time today. -[3234.08 --> 3240.12] But what I want you guys to do first is we're going to stand up and face the congregation and do the blessing. -[3241.56 --> 3242.12] Ready? -[3242.78 --> 3245.38] The Lord be with you. -[3245.58 --> 3247.26] And also with you. -[3264.08 --> 3269.80] Good morning. -[3269.96 --> 3271.98] My name's Sam and I'm one of the members here. -[3272.56 --> 3275.42] And it's my privilege to lead you in a church family prayer. -[3276.10 --> 3279.34] Before I start with that, just have one announcement to make. -[3279.52 --> 3285.82] And our condolences go out to the Rollerman and the Woltzer family as the passing of Peter Rollerman, -[3285.82 --> 3289.00] who is a brother-in-law to Jake and also an uncle to Peter. -[3289.80 --> 3292.30] So, keep them in your prayers this week. -[3292.30 --> 3294.74] Please pray with me. -[3296.26 --> 3299.82] We come before you, Lord, reminded of the song we just sang. -[3300.50 --> 3305.08] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come. -[3305.48 --> 3307.00] With all creation I sing. -[3307.70 --> 3309.00] Praise to the King of kings. -[3309.64 --> 3311.94] You are my everything, and I will adore you. -[3312.74 --> 3315.54] How can we express the praise that is due your name? -[3316.72 --> 3319.72] As we approach Good Friday, we are reminded of the words, -[3319.72 --> 3323.16] Jesus Christ, I think upon your sacrifice. -[3323.94 --> 3326.24] You became nothing, poured out to death. -[3327.18 --> 3332.04] Many times I've wondered at your gift of life, and I'm in that place once again. -[3333.04 --> 3336.56] May we take time this week to reflect on that amazing gift of life -[3336.56 --> 3340.84] that we don't deserve yet gratefully except from your amazing love. -[3340.84 --> 3344.34] We now bring before you our requests. -[3344.34 --> 3352.50] We continue to pray for Matt and Rachel Skipper as they faced difficult times with Rachel's health declining. -[3353.08 --> 3356.68] Please be there to lift them up and to grant them your peace. -[3357.38 --> 3362.36] We pray for Kobe DeBorsab, who continues treatment for leukemia. -[3363.20 --> 3364.94] Touch her with your healing hand, we pray. -[3364.94 --> 3368.46] We pray for Ellen White, who continues to gain strength, -[3368.96 --> 3371.62] and pray that you would restore her to full health. -[3372.60 --> 3377.30] We pray for our Mexico team, who are continuing to minister and help out in Mexico. -[3377.86 --> 3382.02] We pray that they may experience the power of your spirit during their time there. -[3382.56 --> 3386.94] Bring them home safely on Tuesday, we pray, as they rejoin their loved ones at home. -[3386.94 --> 3395.70] We pray for comfort for those who continue to grieve the loss of parents, husband, wife, siblings, and children. -[3396.30 --> 3401.80] We know that all of life is in your hands, and we need your grace each moment of each day. -[3402.88 --> 3405.66] Please provide new leadership for this church. -[3406.80 --> 3411.62] We pray for the names to be brought forward, and for those who may minister in this church. -[3412.10 --> 3416.84] May those who are approached seek your will in serving in the offices of elder and deacon. -[3417.80 --> 3419.64] In the words of Isaiah, we read, -[3419.88 --> 3423.86] The Lord is the everlasting God, the creator of the ends of the earth. -[3424.46 --> 3428.58] He will not grow weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. -[3429.10 --> 3432.34] He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. -[3433.12 --> 3435.08] Even youth grow tired and weary. -[3435.86 --> 3441.58] Young men may stumble and fall, but those whose hope is in the Lord will renew their strength. -[3442.40 --> 3444.16] They will soar on wings like eagles. -[3444.48 --> 3446.32] They will run and not grow weary. -[3446.94 --> 3448.70] They will walk and not faint. -[3450.08 --> 3455.96] May your words this morning speak powerfully to us through the meditations and preaching of Pastor Chris. -[3456.78 --> 3461.44] Open the eyes of our hearts, Lord, as we pray in the powerful name of Jesus. -[3462.44 --> 3462.84] Amen. -[3462.84 --> 3489.94] This morning for Palm Sunday, we are going to look together at Matthew 21, -[3489.94 --> 3496.16] specifically the text I'm going to read before our message, and the one that will be on the screen -[3496.16 --> 3503.56] behind me is verse 23 through 27, but we're really going to live in this whole first half of Matthew -[3503.56 --> 3510.22] 21, and so this is a really great opportunity to open up your Bible that you brought with you, -[3510.22 --> 3516.14] or if you have it on your device, to open it up to that there so that you can follow along, -[3516.14 --> 3521.78] and then keep that open with you, because we're going to be referring back throughout the whole -[3521.78 --> 3527.06] chapter. If you're looking for a Bible, there's a few at the back. I encourage you to grab one of -[3527.06 --> 3534.34] those from there. I'm going to start by reading from Matthew 21, starting at verse 23. -[3538.14 --> 3544.28] Jesus entered the temple courts, and while he was teaching, the chief priests and the elders of the -[3544.28 --> 3551.40] people came to him. By what authority are you doing these things, they asked, and who gave you this -[3551.40 --> 3559.64] authority? Jesus replied, I will also ask you one question. If you answer me, I will tell you by what -[3559.64 --> 3568.70] authority I am doing these things. John's baptism, where did it come from? Was it from heaven or of -[3568.70 --> 3576.42] human origin? They discussed it among themselves and said, if we say from heaven, he will ask, then why -[3576.42 --> 3582.42] didn't you believe him? But if we say of human origin, we are afraid of the people, for they all hold -[3582.42 --> 3591.84] that John was a prophet. So they answered Jesus, we don't know. Then he said, neither will I tell you -[3591.84 --> 3597.52] by what authority I am doing these things. This is the word of the Lord. -[3600.78 --> 3607.86] Before we begin, in earnest, I want to just do a bit of a straw poll here and ask you a question. I -[3607.86 --> 3614.50] just invite you to raise your hand in response. How many of you here this morning have made a decision? -[3617.06 --> 3620.58] Some of you are deciding, do I raise my hand? Well, then you made a decision. So yes, -[3620.58 --> 3628.12] raise your hand. How many of you here this morning have had a hard time making a decision before? -[3631.14 --> 3635.80] There's one or two of you who are like, nope, everything I ever do is always right all the time, -[3636.28 --> 3645.22] never hard. How many of you have had a hard time making what you believe to be or should be an easy -[3645.22 --> 3651.76] decision? So here we're talking about like executive dysfunction, not working the way you want it to, -[3651.90 --> 3659.10] right? Where you're like, do I brush my teeth now before I eat or after I eat? And then you're paralyzed -[3659.10 --> 3670.74] because you can't decide. How many of you have made a decision that was made easier by the fact that -[3670.74 --> 3677.64] there was a whole bunch of other people doing the same thing? Just think back to the beginning of -[3677.64 --> 3683.36] our worship when we were invited to walk through the aisles and nobody went and then Pete doubled down -[3683.36 --> 3688.58] and said, come on guys. And then finally three brave little kids came and then all of a sudden everyone -[3688.58 --> 3694.14] started to come, right? Sometimes it's easier to follow and to make a decision when other people -[3694.14 --> 3703.82] are doing the same. How many of you have had to make a decision when everybody was doing one thing -[3703.82 --> 3715.54] that would cause you to go against the flow of everyone else? Some more hands, right? And those are even -[3715.54 --> 3723.96] harder decisions to have to make. Those are even harder realities to try and live into. -[3725.10 --> 3731.46] But when we make those kinds of decisions, right? The kinds of decisions that say, this is not going -[3731.46 --> 3736.90] to be popular or this is going to be really hard or everyone else is going to be flowing in the other -[3736.90 --> 3742.54] direction and I'm going to have to figure out how to push my way through to against the crowd and -[3742.54 --> 3752.64] against the flow. When we make those kinds of decisions, we do that and we can do that because of -[3752.64 --> 3761.84] something we value more than the opposition we're about to face, right? Or something we think is more -[3761.84 --> 3765.28] important than the hardships that we know we will endure. -[3765.28 --> 3775.04] As we dig into Palm Sunday and to this text, I want you to keep that in mind. -[3775.04 --> 3784.76] That when you value something more than the opposition you will face, it drives you towards it. -[3784.76 --> 3795.24] Because you see, Palm Sunday is about one question. And the text that we read and the others that we're -[3795.24 --> 3803.16] going to look at really circle around one question. So, four forms of the same question giving three -[3803.16 --> 3817.16] answers. You see, the triumphal entry of Jesus is a visible declaration of Jesus' authority, -[3818.12 --> 3828.12] announcing him to the world as king and as messiah. The question is, how will you see it? -[3828.12 --> 3836.92] And in Matthew 21, what I want to do with you this morning is trace three ways of seeing and responding -[3836.92 --> 3844.80] that comes from this story. Those three ways we're going to see are indignation, skepticism, and wonder. -[3846.52 --> 3855.12] Now, before we dig into that, let me just show you quickly how the triumphal entry of Jesus -[3855.12 --> 3864.28] announces him as king and as messiah. And for us to do this, you need to be looking at verse 1 through 11 -[3864.28 --> 3872.48] of Matthew 21. And this is why it's important to have a Bible in your hand. First of all, in this text, -[3872.66 --> 3882.32] notice that Jesus can see into the future. In verse 2, Jesus tells his disciples, -[3882.32 --> 3889.54] go to the village ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied there with her colt by her. -[3890.48 --> 3896.12] Untie them and bring them to me. If anyone says anything to you, say that the Lord needs them, -[3896.18 --> 3904.30] and he will send them right away. Right? So, Jesus says there will be a donkey and her colt there, -[3904.42 --> 3909.84] and then he prepares his disciples. Right? If anyone says anything to you, tell them that the Lord needs -[3909.84 --> 3915.78] them. And the way that Mark tells this story in his gospel account, someone does say, hey, why are you -[3915.78 --> 3919.68] doing what you're doing? And the disciples say, the Lord needs him. And then the person's like, okay. -[3921.14 --> 3929.68] Right? Jesus sees into the future. Now, notice, in the way that this story is told, and it's the same -[3929.68 --> 3935.78] in Mark as well, right? In Matthew, or in the rest of the synoptic gospels, right? There's no indication -[3935.78 --> 3942.36] that Jesus has been here before, or that he's made arrangements with the owner of this house and the -[3942.36 --> 3950.68] owner of this donkey. Right? And part of the theological point that I believe is being made here -[3950.68 --> 3960.72] is that Jesus, as the second person of the Trinity, as the Word of God incarnate, sees the world -[3960.72 --> 3970.74] from a different perspective than linear progression and also isn't limited to the physical proximity of -[3970.74 --> 3976.42] what his two eyes have right in front of them. Now, that's a really complicated way of saying, -[3976.82 --> 3984.96] in short, Jesus sees the future because he is the ruler of the universe. He is the ruler of the world. -[3984.96 --> 3993.72] Right? That's the first point that's here that tells us that Jesus is king. And then the second thing -[3993.72 --> 4004.20] is that Jesus is here revealed as the fulfillment of a prophecy made in the past about this Messiah king -[4004.20 --> 4011.64] to come. Right? And Matthew makes that point explicitly. He says in verse 4 of 21, if you're following along, -[4011.64 --> 4021.14] this took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet. And then Matthew quotes Zechariah 9, -[4021.28 --> 4029.34] verse 9, which we could read, say to daughter Zion, daughter Zion is the prophet's way of saying, -[4029.46 --> 4039.70] say to the people of Jerusalem, say to daughter Zion, see your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a -[4039.70 --> 4049.14] donkey and on a donkey and riding on a donkey. Now, in the next verse of that Zechariah 9 text, in verse 10, -[4050.46 --> 4052.44] the prophet continues and says, -[4052.98 --> 4061.78] he will proclaim peace to the nations and his rule will extend from sea to sea and from the river to the -[4061.78 --> 4072.36] ends of the earth. Right? The point here, again, is confirmation that Jesus is king. And this actually, -[4072.88 --> 4080.80] and this will matter when we get to our text that we read earlier, right? Matthew has been making this -[4080.80 --> 4090.16] point, Jesus has been making this point from the very beginning. In Matthew 3, John announces that the -[4090.16 --> 4097.32] kingdom of heaven has come near when he sees Jesus. In Matthew 4, Jesus says the exact same thing. The -[4097.32 --> 4104.46] kingdom of heaven has come near. In Matthew 12, verse 28, Jesus says, the kingdom of God has come upon you. -[4104.72 --> 4113.22] And in Matthew 28, at the end of the gospel account, Jesus says, all authority in heaven and on earth has -[4113.22 --> 4121.82] been given to me. Right? At the birth of Jesus, you remember the Christmas story, the magi came and they -[4121.82 --> 4130.34] go to Herod and they say, where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? Near the end of the story, -[4130.48 --> 4136.22] and we'll look at it later this week, Pilate asks, are you the king of the Jews? Right? There's this -[4136.22 --> 4143.30] nice bookend going on here. And then the sign that's placed over Jesus' head as he hangs on the cross -[4143.30 --> 4155.70] says, this is Jesus, the king of the Jews. Over and over and over again, explicitly and implicitly, -[4155.90 --> 4163.06] by direct revelation or by typological fulfillment, Matthew has been making this same point over and -[4163.06 --> 4171.14] over. Jesus is king. And he isn't just any kind of king. He's a special kind of king. He's a king -[4171.14 --> 4178.34] from heaven. He is a divine king. And he sees the world differently than any other human king because -[4178.34 --> 4185.52] this Jesus fashioned it out of nothing. Right? He's different from any kind of king that has come -[4185.52 --> 4192.72] before, or he's also different than the kind of king that the people had expected or the people had -[4192.72 --> 4200.80] hoped for. Pete did a great job in his prayer, right, saying that we expected a king who would -[4200.80 --> 4207.80] come and destroy our enemies, and we got a king who told us to love our enemies. Right? This Jesus is a -[4207.80 --> 4214.28] different kind of king, and his kingdom is a different kind of kingdom than what you might expect. -[4214.60 --> 4218.86] And that means that those who are part of that kingdom, the citizens of the kingdom of heaven, -[4218.86 --> 4224.70] need to be different kind of citizens than those who are in the kingdom of the world. -[4227.20 --> 4234.64] And perhaps some of these people in the story of the triumphal entry are beginning to see this. -[4235.24 --> 4240.62] Right? For some of them, it's starting to click. And so they put their cloaks on the ground, -[4240.62 --> 4246.72] and they cut branches from the trees for Jesus to ride over. Right? Which is sort of like a rolling -[4246.72 --> 4253.70] out of the red carpet. Right? It's a way of saying, make way for the king. And actually, -[4254.42 --> 4261.26] when they say, Hosanna to the son of David, this is almost exactly what they're saying. -[4262.14 --> 4271.52] The word Hosanna is what's called a transliteration of a Hebrew word meaning, O Lord, save us. -[4271.52 --> 4284.30] Now, a transliteration is a word from one language that is spelled and then borrowed in another language. -[4285.16 --> 4292.54] And so in this case, this is a Hebrew word spelled in Greek. Another example of transliteration that -[4292.54 --> 4300.00] you might know is the word karaoke. Right? Karaoke is from a Japanese word that literally means empty -[4300.00 --> 4308.00] orchestra. But we say karaoke. Another word that is transliteration that you might know is the word -[4308.00 --> 4313.72] kindergarten. It's actually a transliteration of a German word that means children's garden. -[4314.76 --> 4320.20] And it refers to the place where the youngest of the kids would be taken care of during the education -[4320.20 --> 4327.44] time for the older kids. They would play in the garden. Now, that's what we call the first level of -[4327.44 --> 4336.04] school. Right? Hosanna is a transliteration of a Hebrew word into Greek. And most scholars agree -[4336.04 --> 4344.36] that by this point, by this time in history, every Jew would hear the phrase, Hosanna to the son of David, -[4344.92 --> 4352.32] in the same way that we, as commonwealth citizens or that people in England might hear the phrase, -[4352.32 --> 4362.16] God save the king. Right? What it is, it's a title of royal acclamation. Right? Hosanna to the son of David -[4362.16 --> 4371.94] is a theological statement about who this man is. And it's a theological statement that will upset the empire. -[4371.94 --> 4381.14] And so they go on and they quote from Psalm 118, which again, very early on in the, -[4381.86 --> 4390.16] so the Psalter is the Jewish book of praise. It's the Jewish hymn book, what they would sing from in temple -[4390.16 --> 4400.76] and in synagogue worship. And very early on in that worshiping practice, Psalm 118 emerges as a psalm of hope -[4400.76 --> 4408.46] for the coming Messiah king. Right? It's a song that expresses the hope of the coming Messiah. -[4409.18 --> 4415.14] And so take all of these things now and put them all together. Right? I believe that all these things -[4415.14 --> 4424.50] show that the triumphal entry is the announcement of Jesus as the Messiah, as the savior of the world -[4424.50 --> 4431.40] who will bring priests, is the announcement of a king in the line of David who will have an everlasting kingdom. -[4432.40 --> 4439.44] Right? Matthew is saying clearly what he has been saying throughout the whole gospel, that every hope, -[4439.76 --> 4448.30] every expectation of the Messiah king are found, are rooted, and are fulfilled in this man named Jesus. -[4448.30 --> 4457.06] And as Messiah king, all that's left is how the people will respond. -[4458.40 --> 4462.34] All that's left is how you will respond. -[4463.76 --> 4468.70] And this chapter gives us three examples of how people respond. -[4468.70 --> 4473.34] In the first place, look at verse 10 of chapter 21. -[4474.88 --> 4479.42] The people have proclaimed, Hosanna to the son of David. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. -[4479.52 --> 4481.10] Hosanna in the highest heaven. -[4481.96 --> 4485.18] Which again rings with what the angels declared in Luke. Right? -[4485.74 --> 4488.62] In verse 10. -[4488.62 --> 4493.12] When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, -[4493.56 --> 4495.54] Who is this? -[4495.54 --> 4500.46] That is the question. -[4502.32 --> 4502.84] Right? -[4502.90 --> 4507.46] I don't believe it's an understatement to say, or an overstatement to say, rather, -[4507.56 --> 4513.82] that that is the most important question that you will ever ask of yourself in this life. -[4514.00 --> 4515.72] Who is Jesus? -[4517.32 --> 4522.34] And depending on how you answer that question, the rest of your life is changed. -[4522.34 --> 4522.52] Right? -[4523.16 --> 4527.84] Depending on how you answer that question, the trajectory of your life is changed. -[4529.12 --> 4529.28] Right? -[4529.32 --> 4532.92] For instance, if Jesus is who he says he is, -[4533.18 --> 4536.26] then you owe him everything. -[4537.70 --> 4537.92] Right? -[4537.94 --> 4541.02] If Jesus is who he says he is, you owe him your life. -[4542.08 --> 4543.38] You owe him your love. -[4543.38 --> 4547.12] If Jesus is who he says he is, you owe him your worship. -[4549.72 --> 4554.70] But if he's not, well then we are most of all to be pitied. -[4555.10 --> 4555.62] Says Paul. -[4556.60 --> 4557.00] Right? -[4557.04 --> 4559.02] If he's not, none of this, right? -[4559.06 --> 4560.20] What we're doing here today. -[4560.84 --> 4561.72] None of this matters. -[4561.72 --> 4564.62] But even more than that, right? -[4564.72 --> 4570.02] If Jesus and God isn't who he says he is, -[4570.64 --> 4574.14] then it actually becomes hard to know if any of this, right? -[4574.16 --> 4577.40] The world and everything in of it, to know if any of this matters. -[4578.78 --> 4578.92] Right? -[4578.92 --> 4581.60] If there's no sovereign king ruling history, -[4581.82 --> 4587.26] you can't have any confidence that what happens in history is purposeful, -[4587.32 --> 4588.72] or that it has a point. -[4588.72 --> 4589.72] Right? -[4590.30 --> 4592.44] If there's no God, if there's no king of history, -[4592.62 --> 4594.84] we can't know that history has any meaning. -[4595.36 --> 4596.36] At least not for sure. -[4597.14 --> 4598.40] You can have a whole lot of hope. -[4600.18 --> 4601.58] You can have a whole lot of delusion. -[4602.98 --> 4604.22] But you can't be confident. -[4605.34 --> 4610.04] You can only be confident that your suffering means anything -[4610.04 --> 4613.14] if there is a king who is in charge of it all. -[4613.72 --> 4618.16] You can only be confident that your decisions to go against the crowd and the flow -[4618.16 --> 4621.60] have a value beyond themselves if there is a king -[4621.60 --> 4623.78] whom you are submitting yourself to, -[4624.22 --> 4625.50] whom you are trying to worship, -[4625.96 --> 4628.08] who you are trying to love in response to. -[4630.04 --> 4630.26] Right? -[4630.30 --> 4631.68] Apart from God, -[4631.88 --> 4636.08] you can't know if life has any purpose beyond your life. -[4637.36 --> 4639.80] Now, I know that we live in a time and a place, -[4639.88 --> 4640.42] and let's be honest, -[4640.48 --> 4642.90] this has actually been true for the whole of human history, right? -[4642.90 --> 4646.76] But we live in a time and a place where the modern philosophical apologists -[4646.76 --> 4649.00] have pulpits that are global in their reaching, -[4649.42 --> 4652.30] and they would have you accept about yourself -[4652.30 --> 4655.06] that your life is ultimately meaningless. -[4657.72 --> 4659.12] But I don't want that for you. -[4660.42 --> 4662.12] Jesus doesn't want that for you. -[4662.12 --> 4667.52] And I really do believe that if you look in your heart of hearts, -[4668.20 --> 4674.92] you don't actually accept that for yourself either. -[4676.58 --> 4679.20] But I think that we all intuitively believe -[4679.20 --> 4683.40] that there's something more to life and to us, -[4683.56 --> 4686.56] that there's something more to our purposes on this planet. -[4686.56 --> 4690.72] And may I suggest to you -[4690.72 --> 4697.04] that the more begins -[4697.04 --> 4701.40] with a relationship to the Messiah King, -[4701.62 --> 4704.52] to the one who created it all. -[4706.42 --> 4708.32] Because you see, there actually is -[4708.32 --> 4711.94] what the old divines have called a sunum bonum, right? -[4712.00 --> 4715.22] An ultimate, true, good, and beautiful. -[4715.22 --> 4718.20] And this ultimate, true, good, and beautiful. -[4718.44 --> 4719.74] He wants to know you. -[4720.70 --> 4723.56] He wants to love you and to be in relationship with you. -[4724.22 --> 4726.42] And that's why the most important question -[4726.42 --> 4728.12] is who is this? -[4728.38 --> 4729.48] Who is Jesus? -[4731.50 --> 4732.16] Now you'll notice, -[4732.44 --> 4735.56] you'll notice the word that Matthew used -[4735.56 --> 4737.56] when talking about the people. -[4738.78 --> 4740.40] He says they were stirred. -[4740.40 --> 4745.68] Now that's one of the few places -[4745.68 --> 4748.24] in the English translation of the Bible -[4748.24 --> 4750.24] where we just don't get enough. -[4751.20 --> 4753.40] Because the word that's used there -[4753.40 --> 4755.80] to be stirred literally means -[4755.80 --> 4758.76] to rock or to tremor. -[4759.94 --> 4761.80] The people are stirred up -[4761.80 --> 4763.32] and it's like an uproar. -[4763.66 --> 4765.42] There's an earthquake going on. -[4765.48 --> 4768.88] It's almost as if a riot is about to ensue. -[4768.88 --> 4770.00] And so on the one hand, -[4770.06 --> 4771.12] you have this group of people -[4771.12 --> 4771.80] who are shouting, -[4772.12 --> 4773.92] Hosanna to the son of David! -[4774.30 --> 4775.20] Hail to the king! -[4776.30 --> 4776.68] Right? -[4776.70 --> 4777.34] Who are declaring, -[4777.46 --> 4778.34] the king has come! -[4778.46 --> 4779.58] Long live the king! -[4780.32 --> 4781.32] And on the other hand, -[4781.36 --> 4782.38] you have a group of people -[4782.38 --> 4783.54] who are responding -[4783.54 --> 4784.16] and who are saying, -[4784.44 --> 4785.48] whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, -[4785.48 --> 4786.40] what's going on here? -[4786.84 --> 4787.82] This isn't safe. -[4788.04 --> 4788.92] This isn't right. -[4789.12 --> 4789.90] This isn't good. -[4790.12 --> 4792.40] Don't wake the dragon that is Rome -[4792.40 --> 4794.06] by these rebellious activities. -[4794.06 --> 4800.96] You see the flow of the decision process -[4800.96 --> 4803.56] and the necessity of the value. -[4806.34 --> 4807.72] The story goes on -[4807.72 --> 4810.84] that Jesus went from this group -[4810.84 --> 4813.24] and he entered the temple courts -[4813.24 --> 4815.12] and he drove out all who were buying -[4815.12 --> 4815.86] and selling there. -[4815.96 --> 4816.94] He overturned tables -[4816.94 --> 4820.18] and he cleared the court of the Gentiles, -[4820.34 --> 4821.42] which was being used -[4821.42 --> 4823.74] because of the Passover festival coming up. -[4824.06 --> 4825.34] And the allowing, -[4825.60 --> 4826.58] or not allowing, -[4826.96 --> 4828.76] the God-fearing Gentiles to pray. -[4829.84 --> 4831.04] And in verse 15, -[4831.18 --> 4832.58] after Jesus has done this, -[4833.02 --> 4833.52] we read, -[4834.52 --> 4835.54] when the chief priests -[4835.54 --> 4836.90] and the teachers of the law -[4836.90 --> 4839.10] saw all the wonderful, -[4839.34 --> 4841.58] amazing things that he had did -[4841.58 --> 4842.86] and the children shouting -[4842.86 --> 4843.78] in the temple courts, -[4843.86 --> 4845.60] Hosanna to the son of David, -[4846.62 --> 4849.34] they were indignant, -[4850.22 --> 4851.40] is the word used. -[4851.40 --> 4855.32] They were indignant -[4855.32 --> 4856.26] and they asked, -[4856.40 --> 4858.64] do you hear what these children are saying? -[4860.32 --> 4861.90] That's another way of asking, -[4862.36 --> 4864.54] who do you think you are? -[4866.68 --> 4868.64] Who is Jesus? -[4868.64 --> 4871.26] And the world -[4871.26 --> 4873.82] is still full of people -[4873.82 --> 4876.78] who when they hear about Jesus -[4876.78 --> 4878.88] or when they ask the question, -[4879.00 --> 4879.90] who is Jesus, -[4880.40 --> 4882.86] indignation is their only response. -[4884.06 --> 4886.56] Because Jesus upsets the status quo, -[4887.20 --> 4888.82] especially for the chief priests -[4888.82 --> 4889.88] and the teachers of the law -[4889.88 --> 4891.38] who have worked carefully -[4891.38 --> 4893.02] and have crafted out -[4893.02 --> 4894.70] a tiny little exception -[4894.70 --> 4896.68] to Roman rule in the region. -[4896.68 --> 4897.48] Right? -[4897.60 --> 4898.62] Jesus challenges -[4898.62 --> 4900.42] their presumptions of power -[4900.42 --> 4902.38] and of privilege in society. -[4903.04 --> 4903.94] And often, -[4904.24 --> 4905.96] when someone is challenged -[4905.96 --> 4907.96] in their heart of hearts, -[4908.20 --> 4909.78] the default response, -[4909.90 --> 4912.02] the first response is anger, -[4912.28 --> 4913.08] it is rage, -[4913.20 --> 4914.20] it is never, -[4914.60 --> 4914.86] no, -[4915.02 --> 4915.70] not I, -[4916.06 --> 4917.16] it is indignation. -[4918.20 --> 4919.62] That's what's going on here. -[4920.32 --> 4922.32] And part of what Jesus is showing us -[4922.32 --> 4924.22] is the better way. -[4925.08 --> 4925.18] Right? -[4925.22 --> 4927.16] Our hearts need to be convicted -[4927.16 --> 4928.88] that there is a better way. -[4930.18 --> 4930.20] Right? -[4933.14 --> 4933.98] Part of, -[4934.08 --> 4936.40] part of the effect of sin -[4936.40 --> 4938.14] in our lives -[4938.14 --> 4941.18] is that we are convinced by a lie. -[4942.32 --> 4942.48] Right? -[4942.50 --> 4943.96] It's a lie that was first spoken -[4943.96 --> 4945.00] in the Garden of Eden -[4945.00 --> 4946.30] to Adam and Eve, -[4946.30 --> 4948.24] and it's a lie that continues -[4948.24 --> 4950.32] to whisper throughout the ages, -[4950.32 --> 4952.46] did God really say? -[4953.54 --> 4956.16] Does God really love you? -[4956.34 --> 4960.08] Does God really have your best in mind? -[4960.96 --> 4965.56] Is Jesus really the sovereign Messiah King? -[4967.64 --> 4969.00] Here's the thing, right? -[4969.00 --> 4971.90] People, -[4972.18 --> 4976.10] people have spent lifetimes, -[4976.28 --> 4979.10] people are spending lifetimes -[4979.10 --> 4981.28] building up systems of thought -[4981.28 --> 4983.56] and philosophies of being. -[4983.76 --> 4985.40] People are spending lifetimes -[4985.40 --> 4987.42] building up systems of power -[4987.42 --> 4988.66] and of purpose. -[4989.14 --> 4990.86] And when Jesus comes -[4990.86 --> 4993.50] and he begins to challenge those things, -[4993.78 --> 4995.28] the things that we have created, -[4995.40 --> 4997.04] the things that we have found purpose in, -[4997.04 --> 4998.22] when Jesus comes -[4998.22 --> 5000.46] and he begins to upset those things -[5000.46 --> 5003.50] that we have filled with our identity, -[5003.70 --> 5006.20] that we have drawn our purpose from, -[5006.36 --> 5007.64] the default reaction -[5007.64 --> 5009.30] is to rage against it, -[5009.40 --> 5010.96] is to protect the establishment -[5010.96 --> 5013.20] of our ideas and our ideals. -[5014.18 --> 5015.08] In the Bible, -[5015.94 --> 5017.34] in the Bible, -[5017.48 --> 5020.76] those things that we build our lives upon, -[5020.92 --> 5022.28] those ideas that we have -[5022.28 --> 5023.50] that we try to find purpose -[5023.50 --> 5025.02] and meaning in, -[5025.36 --> 5027.02] those things that we create, -[5027.04 --> 5028.60] in order to give us a reason -[5028.60 --> 5030.04] to get out of bed in the morning, -[5030.30 --> 5033.40] if those things are not God in Jesus Christ, -[5033.54 --> 5035.24] the Bible has a word for that. -[5036.54 --> 5037.58] They're called idols. -[5039.94 --> 5042.30] Idols are false gods. -[5042.52 --> 5044.10] And let me be abundantly clear with you, -[5044.20 --> 5047.44] idols don't have to be carved out of wood or stone. -[5048.08 --> 5050.78] They don't have to be fashioned out of gold or silver. -[5050.78 --> 5054.34] Any time we take something that is created -[5054.34 --> 5056.84] and we give it meaning and purpose -[5056.84 --> 5060.58] that we should only find in our uncreated God, -[5061.08 --> 5062.30] we have made an idol. -[5063.06 --> 5065.28] We have fashioned an idol. -[5066.08 --> 5068.64] So an idol can be something that is good -[5068.64 --> 5069.84] in and of itself -[5069.84 --> 5071.94] and we turn it into an ultimate thing. -[5071.94 --> 5075.38] John Calvin has said famously -[5075.38 --> 5078.78] that the human heart is an idol factory. -[5079.70 --> 5081.16] That our default setting now, -[5081.30 --> 5082.04] because of sin, -[5082.30 --> 5083.68] is to create idols. -[5084.78 --> 5086.88] Because sin is first and foremost -[5086.88 --> 5088.86] a rebelling against God -[5088.86 --> 5091.40] and a casting off of our relationship to Him. -[5091.64 --> 5093.40] What that does is it leaves a hole -[5093.40 --> 5094.88] inside of our hearts, right? -[5094.92 --> 5096.14] Our hearts were created -[5096.14 --> 5098.42] to rest in Him -[5098.42 --> 5099.78] and to find our purpose -[5099.78 --> 5101.14] in relationship to Him. -[5101.14 --> 5102.36] And when that's gone, -[5102.68 --> 5103.92] things rush in to fill it. -[5104.60 --> 5106.10] And not only do things rush in, -[5106.28 --> 5108.76] we actively pull things in. -[5109.66 --> 5110.68] That's idolatry. -[5111.34 --> 5113.52] And when those things become challenged, -[5114.20 --> 5116.46] when Jesus comes along and says, -[5117.02 --> 5120.60] Chris, I am the true King. -[5121.08 --> 5123.64] You are made for me. -[5124.52 --> 5127.66] My throne is your heart. -[5127.66 --> 5130.64] Then, -[5130.64 --> 5133.34] the pride -[5133.34 --> 5135.60] that I have put there -[5135.60 --> 5137.88] or my desire -[5137.88 --> 5139.36] to be loved -[5139.36 --> 5140.76] by crowds of people -[5140.76 --> 5141.86] and lauded -[5141.86 --> 5143.88] as an excellent speaker -[5143.88 --> 5147.56] gets knocked down, -[5148.62 --> 5149.86] gets pulled away, -[5150.50 --> 5151.72] gets toppled. -[5151.72 --> 5152.36] toppled. -[5153.68 --> 5155.78] And our default response -[5155.78 --> 5156.74] often -[5156.74 --> 5158.68] is indignation. -[5160.86 --> 5161.42] Indignation. -[5161.98 --> 5162.80] And maybe that's where you're at. -[5163.02 --> 5163.94] Maybe you are -[5163.94 --> 5164.96] thinking of Jesus -[5164.96 --> 5166.06] and you're indignant. -[5166.20 --> 5166.98] How could He? -[5167.28 --> 5168.32] How would He? -[5168.56 --> 5169.58] How dare He? -[5170.86 --> 5172.14] If that's where you're at, -[5173.14 --> 5174.06] would you commit to -[5174.06 --> 5175.36] talk to me -[5175.36 --> 5175.90] or someone -[5175.90 --> 5176.66] this week? -[5177.60 --> 5178.30] Can we get together, -[5178.70 --> 5179.20] have coffee? -[5179.52 --> 5180.04] Can we chat -[5180.04 --> 5181.08] about what that is like -[5181.08 --> 5181.78] and what's going on? -[5181.98 --> 5182.88] I would love for that. -[5185.28 --> 5186.44] There's another response -[5186.44 --> 5188.20] that's given here. -[5188.26 --> 5188.66] And for this, -[5189.08 --> 5190.66] look at verse 23. -[5191.52 --> 5192.12] This is where -[5192.12 --> 5194.02] we read together. -[5195.08 --> 5195.66] Jesus entered -[5196.18 --> 5196.98] the temple courts -[5196.98 --> 5197.86] and He was teaching -[5197.86 --> 5198.74] and the chief priests -[5198.74 --> 5199.26] and the elders -[5199.26 --> 5199.92] come to Him -[5199.92 --> 5200.66] and they ask, -[5200.66 --> 5202.32] by what authority -[5202.32 --> 5203.38] are you doing -[5203.38 --> 5204.02] these things? -[5204.64 --> 5205.28] They ask, -[5205.28 --> 5206.56] who gave you -[5206.56 --> 5207.64] this authority? -[5208.68 --> 5209.78] This is another way -[5209.78 --> 5210.72] of asking the question, -[5211.00 --> 5211.80] who are you? -[5212.62 --> 5213.64] Who sent you? -[5214.82 --> 5215.36] And notice, -[5215.56 --> 5216.92] this is the only time -[5216.92 --> 5217.96] in the story -[5217.96 --> 5219.32] that there's no descriptor, -[5219.40 --> 5220.74] there's no adjective given -[5220.74 --> 5222.50] for the kind of response -[5222.50 --> 5222.88] they have, -[5222.92 --> 5223.70] for the feeling -[5223.70 --> 5224.46] that is behind -[5224.46 --> 5225.06] the questioning. -[5225.90 --> 5226.76] In verse 10, -[5227.44 --> 5228.06] we were told -[5228.06 --> 5229.12] that the whole city -[5229.12 --> 5229.80] was stirred, -[5230.00 --> 5231.16] that they were trembling -[5231.16 --> 5232.88] with their anxiety -[5232.88 --> 5233.42] of it all. -[5233.70 --> 5234.56] In verse 16, -[5234.66 --> 5235.06] we were told -[5235.06 --> 5236.16] that they were indignant, -[5236.34 --> 5237.04] or verse 15, -[5237.16 --> 5237.90] they were indignant -[5237.90 --> 5238.74] and so they say, -[5238.80 --> 5239.96] who do you think you are? -[5240.80 --> 5241.90] And in verse 20, -[5242.08 --> 5242.90] where we'll come back -[5242.90 --> 5243.90] to when we end, -[5244.58 --> 5244.76] right, -[5244.84 --> 5246.10] the disciples saw this -[5246.10 --> 5247.72] and they were amazed. -[5249.12 --> 5249.96] But here, -[5250.86 --> 5251.90] there's no descriptor given. -[5251.98 --> 5252.10] Now, -[5252.78 --> 5253.76] we read the text before, -[5253.84 --> 5254.90] so you saw what's coming, -[5255.02 --> 5255.22] right, -[5255.26 --> 5256.56] at the end of the story -[5256.56 --> 5257.46] it does say -[5257.46 --> 5258.94] that they were afraid -[5258.94 --> 5260.66] and so maybe -[5260.66 --> 5261.24] that's part -[5261.24 --> 5262.00] of what's going on, -[5262.06 --> 5263.10] but their fear -[5263.10 --> 5264.12] is controlling -[5264.12 --> 5264.64] whether or not -[5264.64 --> 5265.20] they will answer -[5265.20 --> 5265.78] the question, -[5266.08 --> 5267.84] not their asking -[5267.84 --> 5268.66] of the question. -[5269.94 --> 5270.54] And I think -[5270.54 --> 5271.20] that's important. -[5272.36 --> 5273.28] Because one of the things -[5273.28 --> 5274.12] that I think we see -[5274.12 --> 5275.10] here is that -[5275.10 --> 5276.82] asking Jesus questions, -[5277.82 --> 5278.54] who are you -[5278.54 --> 5279.44] and who sent you, -[5279.96 --> 5281.10] is a good thing. -[5282.38 --> 5282.52] Right, -[5282.52 --> 5283.72] sometimes in churches -[5283.72 --> 5284.68] we are afraid -[5284.68 --> 5285.62] of skepticism, -[5286.38 --> 5286.52] right, -[5286.52 --> 5287.62] we're afraid of doubts, -[5287.62 --> 5289.54] we're afraid -[5289.54 --> 5290.22] of people -[5290.22 --> 5291.74] asking hard questions -[5291.74 --> 5293.44] because we don't -[5293.44 --> 5294.10] know the answer -[5294.10 --> 5295.18] or because we think -[5295.18 --> 5296.44] I have that same question -[5296.44 --> 5297.90] and I need to do -[5297.90 --> 5298.40] a good job -[5298.40 --> 5299.00] of representing -[5299.00 --> 5299.86] who Jesus is -[5299.86 --> 5300.36] because I want -[5300.36 --> 5300.80] this person -[5300.80 --> 5301.78] to know him -[5301.78 --> 5302.86] and to love him -[5302.86 --> 5303.78] like I know him -[5303.78 --> 5304.82] and I'm loved by him -[5304.82 --> 5306.22] and so we have -[5306.22 --> 5306.76] this fear. -[5308.24 --> 5309.18] And then what happens -[5309.18 --> 5311.68] is a culture -[5311.68 --> 5313.24] of fear -[5313.24 --> 5314.88] begins to develop -[5314.88 --> 5315.58] and take root -[5315.58 --> 5316.12] that says -[5316.12 --> 5317.48] you can't ask questions. -[5318.38 --> 5318.98] But that's not -[5318.98 --> 5319.86] what we're modeled here. -[5320.38 --> 5320.94] That's not what -[5320.94 --> 5321.68] we're given here. -[5322.62 --> 5322.72] Right, -[5322.82 --> 5324.74] skepticism itself -[5324.74 --> 5325.44] is, -[5325.76 --> 5326.14] I think, -[5326.22 --> 5327.62] a good thing. -[5328.82 --> 5330.42] Ask your hard questions. -[5331.56 --> 5331.68] Right, -[5331.70 --> 5331.96] remember, -[5332.12 --> 5333.04] Jesus is king. -[5333.82 --> 5334.80] He is Messiah. -[5334.96 --> 5335.92] He can handle -[5335.92 --> 5337.18] your hard questions. -[5338.70 --> 5338.84] Right, -[5338.92 --> 5339.36] Jesus -[5339.36 --> 5341.86] fashioned the world -[5341.86 --> 5343.24] with a word. -[5344.44 --> 5345.64] I think he can handle -[5345.64 --> 5346.66] your words of doubt. -[5347.62 --> 5348.58] and the questions -[5348.58 --> 5349.02] you might have -[5349.02 --> 5349.60] to bring to him. -[5352.22 --> 5353.80] The skepticism -[5353.80 --> 5354.90] and the questioning -[5354.90 --> 5356.66] is okay. -[5357.40 --> 5357.78] In fact, -[5358.06 --> 5359.44] I think that -[5359.44 --> 5360.60] part of what -[5360.60 --> 5362.02] is going on here, -[5362.58 --> 5362.84] right, -[5362.92 --> 5364.48] is an echo -[5364.48 --> 5365.98] or a continuation -[5365.98 --> 5367.24] of the question, -[5367.60 --> 5368.24] who are you -[5368.24 --> 5369.24] and who sent you, -[5369.54 --> 5370.46] that started -[5370.46 --> 5371.16] and that we have -[5371.16 --> 5371.78] modeled for us -[5371.78 --> 5372.72] in Matthew 16. -[5372.90 --> 5373.52] If you have your Bible -[5373.52 --> 5373.80] open, -[5373.80 --> 5374.48] it's worth flipping -[5374.48 --> 5376.42] over to chapter 16. -[5378.72 --> 5379.80] Chapter 16, -[5380.66 --> 5382.62] I'll start at verse 13. -[5383.72 --> 5384.54] We can read -[5384.54 --> 5385.32] that -[5385.32 --> 5387.18] when Jesus came -[5387.18 --> 5387.86] to the region -[5387.86 --> 5389.28] of Caesarea Philippi, -[5389.40 --> 5390.46] he asked his disciples, -[5390.88 --> 5392.12] who do people say -[5392.12 --> 5393.36] the Son of Man is? -[5393.98 --> 5395.02] And they replied, -[5395.26 --> 5396.58] some say John the Baptist, -[5396.76 --> 5397.60] others say Elijah, -[5397.72 --> 5398.46] and still others, -[5398.90 --> 5399.22] Jeremiah, -[5399.52 --> 5400.40] or one of the prophets. -[5400.40 --> 5402.42] But what about you, -[5402.86 --> 5403.44] he asked? -[5403.72 --> 5405.00] Who do you say -[5405.00 --> 5406.26] that I am? -[5407.54 --> 5408.86] Simon Peter answered, -[5409.62 --> 5412.32] you are the Messiah, -[5413.00 --> 5416.62] the Son of the living God. -[5419.64 --> 5423.62] Questions shape faith. -[5425.26 --> 5426.90] Skepticism becomes -[5426.90 --> 5428.42] the context wherein -[5428.42 --> 5429.58] you can make -[5429.58 --> 5430.60] the declaration, -[5431.06 --> 5432.62] you are the Messiah, -[5433.04 --> 5435.46] the Son of the living God. -[5436.28 --> 5437.42] Questions like that -[5437.42 --> 5438.42] are necessary -[5438.42 --> 5439.82] for who we are -[5439.82 --> 5442.34] and I, for one, -[5442.72 --> 5446.68] will never shy away -[5446.68 --> 5449.64] from your hard questions. -[5450.52 --> 5451.28] Now the reality is -[5451.28 --> 5451.80] I won't know -[5451.80 --> 5452.72] all the answers to them, -[5453.86 --> 5455.30] but my commitment with you -[5455.30 --> 5456.00] is to journey, -[5456.66 --> 5457.44] to figure it out, -[5457.44 --> 5458.54] to wrestle. -[5459.54 --> 5460.66] The problem isn't -[5460.66 --> 5462.50] the asking of the questions. -[5464.56 --> 5465.36] The problem -[5465.36 --> 5466.98] is the refusal -[5466.98 --> 5468.32] to commit to an answer. -[5469.36 --> 5470.26] That's what happens -[5470.26 --> 5471.34] in our text. -[5472.82 --> 5473.66] If we go back -[5473.66 --> 5475.14] to chapter 21, -[5476.18 --> 5477.54] they ask this question -[5477.54 --> 5478.62] and Jesus says, -[5478.76 --> 5478.98] okay, -[5479.14 --> 5480.28] let me follow up to you -[5480.28 --> 5481.06] with a question. -[5481.54 --> 5482.56] And then they discuss it -[5482.56 --> 5483.30] among themselves -[5483.30 --> 5483.78] and they say, -[5483.84 --> 5484.72] well, if we say this, -[5484.78 --> 5485.56] then he's going to say this -[5485.56 --> 5486.34] and if we say this, -[5486.58 --> 5487.72] then he's going to say this. -[5487.94 --> 5488.64] And so they say, -[5488.82 --> 5489.56] I don't know. -[5490.78 --> 5491.60] I don't know. -[5493.36 --> 5494.14] And Jesus says, -[5494.22 --> 5494.38] well, -[5495.46 --> 5497.76] then I'm not going to tell you. -[5497.76 --> 5500.98] The problem -[5500.98 --> 5502.74] isn't that they have questions. -[5502.98 --> 5504.14] The problem here -[5504.14 --> 5505.22] is that they refuse -[5505.22 --> 5506.40] to commit to an answer. -[5507.04 --> 5507.92] And I think, -[5508.14 --> 5509.26] as we have been seeing -[5509.26 --> 5509.64] throughout, -[5510.00 --> 5510.80] the problem is -[5510.80 --> 5511.74] that they should have -[5511.74 --> 5512.98] already known the answer. -[5513.64 --> 5514.30] They don't actually -[5514.30 --> 5515.10] have an excuse -[5515.10 --> 5516.16] because as Matthew -[5516.16 --> 5517.56] has been painstakingly showing, -[5517.90 --> 5518.84] Jesus has been making -[5518.84 --> 5519.34] this point -[5519.34 --> 5520.52] over and over -[5520.52 --> 5521.30] and over again -[5521.30 --> 5522.38] about who he is. -[5522.38 --> 5526.76] And I think -[5526.76 --> 5528.06] the same remains -[5528.06 --> 5529.88] true for us. -[5531.74 --> 5533.08] In our culture, -[5533.22 --> 5534.12] especially here -[5534.12 --> 5535.06] in the West, -[5535.30 --> 5536.86] especially as we -[5536.86 --> 5537.60] have been shaped, -[5537.82 --> 5539.62] there is no -[5539.62 --> 5542.86] real excuse -[5542.86 --> 5544.76] for not knowing -[5544.76 --> 5546.68] who Jesus is -[5546.68 --> 5547.76] in our culture. -[5547.76 --> 5551.44] except -[5551.44 --> 5553.36] for willful -[5553.36 --> 5554.34] ignorance. -[5557.56 --> 5558.32] And let me be -[5558.32 --> 5558.80] really clear -[5558.80 --> 5559.68] with what I say next. -[5561.20 --> 5562.50] Because the only excuse -[5562.50 --> 5563.04] for not knowing -[5563.04 --> 5563.90] Jesus in our culture -[5563.90 --> 5564.96] is not the willful -[5564.96 --> 5565.44] ignorance -[5565.44 --> 5566.54] of people -[5566.54 --> 5567.64] outside of the church. -[5569.20 --> 5570.18] It's the willful -[5570.18 --> 5570.66] ignorance -[5570.66 --> 5571.92] of us -[5571.92 --> 5573.58] who sit here -[5573.58 --> 5575.54] and who refuse -[5575.54 --> 5576.06] to go -[5576.06 --> 5576.94] and to declare -[5576.94 --> 5577.94] and to proclaim -[5577.94 --> 5579.06] to our neighbors -[5579.06 --> 5580.66] who this Jesus is. -[5580.74 --> 5581.28] It's us. -[5581.74 --> 5582.86] And there's a, -[5583.34 --> 5585.02] this is a loaded word, -[5585.12 --> 5585.70] but I'll say it anyway, -[5585.76 --> 5586.54] there's a pandemic -[5586.54 --> 5588.32] of biblical illiteracy -[5588.32 --> 5589.24] in the church today. -[5590.98 --> 5592.94] And our willful ignorance -[5592.94 --> 5593.90] is creating -[5593.90 --> 5594.72] this problem -[5594.72 --> 5595.64] where people -[5595.64 --> 5596.64] can't answer -[5596.64 --> 5597.18] the question -[5597.18 --> 5597.92] who is Jesus -[5597.92 --> 5598.88] because they don't -[5598.88 --> 5599.46] actually want to go -[5599.46 --> 5600.30] talk to the Christians -[5600.30 --> 5601.04] because the Christians -[5601.04 --> 5601.48] have made it -[5601.48 --> 5602.38] about something else. -[5603.04 --> 5603.78] Remember when our power -[5603.78 --> 5604.32] and our privilege -[5604.32 --> 5604.96] are challenged? -[5605.96 --> 5606.56] Remember when we have -[5606.56 --> 5606.96] a value -[5606.96 --> 5607.72] that we raise up -[5607.72 --> 5608.64] to go against the flow -[5608.64 --> 5609.52] and make other decisions? -[5610.64 --> 5611.64] Is that value -[5611.64 --> 5612.68] that you've raised up -[5612.68 --> 5613.08] Jesus? -[5614.56 --> 5615.20] Is that, -[5615.26 --> 5616.04] that value -[5616.04 --> 5617.26] that you've put up -[5617.26 --> 5617.48] the, -[5617.48 --> 5618.46] the proclamation -[5618.46 --> 5619.36] of the kingdom come -[5619.36 --> 5620.16] and the kingdom coming -[5620.16 --> 5620.98] of living a life -[5620.98 --> 5621.80] worthy of the calling -[5621.80 --> 5622.54] that you have received -[5622.54 --> 5623.40] in grace? -[5625.00 --> 5626.24] Or is it something else -[5626.24 --> 5628.80] that's getting in the way -[5628.80 --> 5630.26] of people hearing -[5630.26 --> 5632.54] who this man is? -[5633.54 --> 5634.18] Because you see, -[5634.24 --> 5635.44] there's one more response -[5635.44 --> 5637.14] and that good questions -[5637.14 --> 5638.08] will lead us to. -[5638.90 --> 5640.08] And that final response -[5640.08 --> 5641.50] comes in the story -[5641.50 --> 5642.54] of Jesus cursing -[5642.54 --> 5643.08] the fig tree. -[5643.16 --> 5643.96] And I just want to say -[5643.96 --> 5645.16] this is a weird story. -[5646.40 --> 5647.28] But hear this. -[5648.28 --> 5649.18] Verse 18. -[5650.02 --> 5651.64] So Jesus has entered -[5651.64 --> 5653.16] Jerusalem in the triumphal entry. -[5653.28 --> 5654.42] He has cleared the temple -[5654.42 --> 5655.52] and then they went -[5655.52 --> 5656.48] to Bethany -[5656.48 --> 5657.16] to spend the night. -[5657.28 --> 5658.18] Early in the morning, -[5658.30 --> 5658.96] verse 18, -[5659.10 --> 5660.28] as Jesus was on his way -[5660.28 --> 5661.00] back to the city, -[5661.08 --> 5661.72] he was hungry -[5661.72 --> 5663.26] and seeing a fig tree -[5663.26 --> 5663.90] by the road, -[5663.98 --> 5664.76] he went up to it -[5664.76 --> 5666.14] but found nothing on it -[5666.14 --> 5666.92] except leaves -[5666.92 --> 5668.24] and then he said to it, -[5668.48 --> 5670.36] may you never bear fruit again -[5670.36 --> 5671.28] and immediately -[5671.28 --> 5672.92] the tree withered. -[5675.08 --> 5675.34] Now, -[5676.28 --> 5677.38] can I just say -[5677.38 --> 5678.00] that the history -[5678.00 --> 5678.66] of interpretation -[5678.66 --> 5679.66] on this passage -[5679.66 --> 5680.64] is convoluted -[5680.64 --> 5681.80] and it is really fun -[5681.80 --> 5682.62] to wrestle into -[5682.62 --> 5684.04] and someone like Josh -[5684.04 --> 5684.94] and maybe Bert -[5684.94 --> 5685.60] or Peter -[5685.60 --> 5686.40] really want to dig -[5686.40 --> 5687.30] into that kind of thing. -[5687.50 --> 5688.78] But for our purposes here, -[5688.78 --> 5691.08] just here, -[5691.92 --> 5692.16] right, -[5692.24 --> 5694.40] that Jesus spoke -[5694.40 --> 5696.66] and immediately -[5696.66 --> 5697.42] the tree withered. -[5698.50 --> 5699.86] And the disciples say, -[5700.40 --> 5701.12] when the disciples -[5701.12 --> 5701.94] saw this, -[5702.10 --> 5704.32] they were amazed. -[5705.70 --> 5706.88] How did the tree -[5706.88 --> 5708.90] wither so quickly, -[5709.08 --> 5709.74] they asked. -[5710.32 --> 5711.16] Which is, again, -[5711.24 --> 5712.08] another way of asking -[5712.08 --> 5712.54] the question, -[5712.88 --> 5714.98] who is this man? -[5717.08 --> 5718.04] Now, I think, -[5718.04 --> 5719.42] in this story, -[5719.58 --> 5721.76] there is a direct echo -[5721.76 --> 5722.82] or parallel -[5722.82 --> 5724.84] to a similar story -[5724.84 --> 5726.48] that's told in Matthew 8, -[5726.62 --> 5727.66] verse 27. -[5728.54 --> 5731.18] Jesus is asleep on a boat -[5731.18 --> 5732.92] and a storm rises up -[5732.92 --> 5734.10] and the disciples -[5734.10 --> 5734.78] are terrified -[5734.78 --> 5735.72] for their life -[5735.72 --> 5737.20] and so they wake Master up -[5737.20 --> 5737.66] and they say, -[5737.74 --> 5738.00] Master, -[5738.10 --> 5738.62] don't you care -[5738.62 --> 5739.76] that we are about to die? -[5740.08 --> 5740.96] And Jesus says, -[5741.20 --> 5742.86] what is your faith in? -[5744.22 --> 5745.56] And he speaks up -[5745.56 --> 5746.66] and he stands up -[5746.66 --> 5747.26] and he speaks, -[5747.26 --> 5747.80] he says, -[5747.88 --> 5748.48] be still -[5748.48 --> 5749.50] and immediately -[5749.50 --> 5751.54] the storm dies. -[5751.62 --> 5752.22] And we are told -[5752.22 --> 5753.26] in chapter 8, -[5753.32 --> 5753.96] verse 27, -[5754.46 --> 5756.70] the men were amazed -[5756.70 --> 5758.26] and they asked, -[5758.50 --> 5760.16] what kind of man is this? -[5760.52 --> 5761.42] Even the winds -[5761.42 --> 5762.12] and the waves -[5762.12 --> 5763.08] obey him. -[5764.16 --> 5766.66] Who is this Jesus? -[5766.92 --> 5768.40] What kind of man is this? -[5768.48 --> 5769.16] Even the wind -[5769.16 --> 5769.78] and the waves -[5769.78 --> 5770.60] and the trees -[5770.60 --> 5771.66] obey him. -[5771.66 --> 5773.72] they are amazed -[5773.72 --> 5774.96] that the response -[5774.96 --> 5777.42] to the question, -[5777.58 --> 5778.92] who is Jesus, -[5779.52 --> 5780.98] rightly leads -[5780.98 --> 5782.64] to worship, -[5783.64 --> 5784.86] to being amazed. -[5786.32 --> 5787.12] And so if you're here -[5787.12 --> 5787.72] this morning -[5787.72 --> 5790.98] and maybe for the first time -[5790.98 --> 5792.68] you're starting to answer -[5792.68 --> 5793.22] the question, -[5793.36 --> 5794.84] who is Jesus for you? -[5795.58 --> 5795.86] Right? -[5795.86 --> 5796.90] Maybe for the first time -[5796.90 --> 5797.74] you're starting to wonder, -[5797.74 --> 5798.30] yeah, -[5798.40 --> 5798.80] you know what? -[5798.84 --> 5799.48] This actually -[5799.48 --> 5801.10] does change -[5801.10 --> 5802.08] things -[5802.08 --> 5802.94] for me. -[5804.10 --> 5805.24] But I want to talk to you -[5805.24 --> 5806.34] about profession of faith -[5806.34 --> 5807.14] or I want to talk to you -[5807.14 --> 5807.96] about baptism, -[5808.44 --> 5808.54] right? -[5808.58 --> 5810.02] About standing up -[5810.02 --> 5810.50] and saying, -[5810.66 --> 5811.80] this I believe -[5811.80 --> 5813.90] in Jesus Christ. -[5814.68 --> 5816.52] He is the King -[5816.52 --> 5818.00] and Messiah. -[5818.00 --> 5820.42] because this -[5820.42 --> 5821.98] is the most -[5821.98 --> 5823.08] important decision -[5823.08 --> 5825.48] you will ever -[5825.48 --> 5826.64] make. -[5827.36 --> 5828.12] Who -[5828.12 --> 5829.38] is -[5829.38 --> 5830.56] Jesus? -[5831.88 --> 5833.00] And I hope, -[5833.24 --> 5833.72] I hope -[5833.72 --> 5834.36] and I pray -[5834.36 --> 5835.60] that as we wave -[5835.60 --> 5836.32] palm branches -[5836.32 --> 5839.12] that you will see -[5839.12 --> 5839.90] that he -[5839.90 --> 5841.02] is -[5841.02 --> 5842.08] your -[5842.08 --> 5843.20] Messiah -[5843.20 --> 5844.32] King. -[5844.74 --> 5845.02] Amen? -[5845.82 --> 5846.50] Amen. -[5846.66 --> 5847.32] Let's pray together. -[5848.00 --> 5848.64] And actually, -[5848.68 --> 5849.20] I'm going to invite you -[5849.20 --> 5849.78] to stand -[5849.78 --> 5850.54] for this prayer. -[5850.64 --> 5851.36] That seems appropriate. -[5851.46 --> 5851.98] If you're able, -[5852.18 --> 5853.06] please stand. -[5858.74 --> 5859.34] Holy -[5859.34 --> 5860.34] Lord -[5860.34 --> 5861.40] Jesus. -[5862.44 --> 5863.08] Holy -[5863.08 --> 5864.10] Messiah -[5864.10 --> 5865.16] King -[5865.16 --> 5866.08] Jesus. -[5867.84 --> 5869.20] We stand -[5869.20 --> 5869.92] here -[5869.92 --> 5870.92] in your -[5870.92 --> 5871.62] presence. -[5871.80 --> 5872.38] We stand -[5872.38 --> 5872.88] here -[5872.88 --> 5873.80] amazed -[5873.80 --> 5874.48] at who -[5874.48 --> 5875.28] you are. -[5875.60 --> 5876.20] We stand -[5876.20 --> 5876.50] here, -[5876.56 --> 5877.14] each one -[5877.14 --> 5877.52] of us -[5877.52 --> 5878.24] on a -[5878.24 --> 5878.62] different -[5878.62 --> 5879.08] journey -[5879.08 --> 5879.78] of faith -[5879.78 --> 5880.26] and -[5880.26 --> 5880.88] proclamation, -[5881.38 --> 5881.92] an answer -[5881.92 --> 5882.26] to the -[5882.26 --> 5882.64] question, -[5882.84 --> 5883.08] who -[5883.08 --> 5884.08] is -[5884.08 --> 5884.86] Jesus? -[5886.38 --> 5886.78] And so, -[5886.86 --> 5886.96] God, -[5887.00 --> 5887.62] I pray for -[5887.62 --> 5888.22] those who -[5888.22 --> 5889.44] are in -[5889.44 --> 5890.34] indignation -[5890.34 --> 5890.78] pushing -[5890.78 --> 5891.42] against -[5891.42 --> 5891.90] you. -[5893.08 --> 5893.84] I pray -[5893.84 --> 5894.34] for those -[5894.34 --> 5894.74] of us -[5894.74 --> 5895.06] who have -[5895.06 --> 5895.72] questions -[5895.72 --> 5896.36] and are -[5896.36 --> 5896.96] skeptics -[5896.96 --> 5897.20] and are -[5897.20 --> 5897.68] full of -[5897.68 --> 5898.08] doubt -[5898.08 --> 5899.16] and trial -[5899.16 --> 5899.86] and are -[5899.86 --> 5900.38] struggling -[5900.38 --> 5901.06] to understand. -[5901.20 --> 5901.52] May we -[5901.52 --> 5902.26] bring those -[5902.26 --> 5902.80] to you, -[5902.96 --> 5903.12] Lord -[5903.12 --> 5903.82] Jesus. -[5905.58 --> 5905.92] And I -[5905.92 --> 5906.16] pray, -[5906.38 --> 5906.60] God, -[5906.66 --> 5907.22] for those -[5907.22 --> 5908.24] who maybe -[5908.24 --> 5908.92] today for -[5908.92 --> 5909.36] the first -[5909.36 --> 5910.22] time or -[5910.22 --> 5910.96] who today -[5910.96 --> 5912.42] affirm in -[5912.42 --> 5913.40] their faith -[5913.40 --> 5914.18] that you -[5914.18 --> 5915.68] are my -[5915.68 --> 5916.38] King, -[5916.72 --> 5917.66] that you, -[5917.90 --> 5918.32] Lord Jesus, -[5918.46 --> 5918.94] belong on -[5918.94 --> 5919.44] the throne -[5919.44 --> 5920.30] of my -[5920.30 --> 5921.02] heart, -[5921.20 --> 5921.96] and so I -[5921.96 --> 5922.88] will worship -[5922.88 --> 5923.60] you -[5923.60 --> 5924.52] forever. -[5926.64 --> 5927.70] May we -[5927.70 --> 5928.84] add our -[5928.84 --> 5929.84] voices to -[5929.84 --> 5930.76] the voices -[5930.76 --> 5931.64] of the -[5931.64 --> 5932.00] church -[5932.00 --> 5932.48] throughout -[5932.48 --> 5933.34] time -[5933.34 --> 5934.34] immemorial -[5934.34 --> 5935.00] praising -[5935.00 --> 5935.66] you, -[5936.04 --> 5936.82] Lord Jesus, -[5937.08 --> 5938.14] as our -[5938.14 --> 5938.86] King. -[5939.26 --> 5939.84] Hosanna -[5939.84 --> 5940.88] to the -[5940.88 --> 5942.00] Son of -[5942.00 --> 5942.52] David. -[5943.40 --> 5944.06] Hosanna -[5944.06 --> 5945.50] in the -[5945.50 --> 5946.06] highest -[5946.06 --> 5947.00] heaven. -[5948.38 --> 5948.78] Blessed -[5948.78 --> 5949.64] is he -[5949.64 --> 5950.56] who comes -[5950.56 --> 5951.28] in the -[5951.28 --> 5952.34] name of -[5952.34 --> 5952.78] the Lord. -[5953.60 --> 5953.94] Amen. -[5959.84 --> 5961.46] might -[5961.46 --> 5962.18] not -[5962.18 --> 5963.96] there -[5963.96 --> 5964.62] no -[5965.94 --> 5966.44] em -[5966.44 --> 5967.84] long -[5967.92 --> 5968.18] hy -[5968.18 --> 5969.30] say -[5969.76 --> 5970.36] o -[5970.36 --> 5971.18] Sh -[5971.18 --> 5972.76] h -[5973.34 --> 5973.88] and -[5973.88 --> 5974.64] l -[5974.64 --> 5975.68] 70 -[5975.68 --> 5976.58] no -[5976.58 --> 5977.42] Bueno -[5977.42 --> 5978.30] 효 -[5978.30 --> 5978.34] be -[5978.34 --> 5979.56] 句 -[5979.56 --> 5980.00] 句 -[5980.00 --> 5985.26] 句 -[5985.26 --> 5991.74] The worm upon his throne -[5991.74 --> 5995.70] While heaven's eternal anthem -[5995.70 --> 6000.86] Drums no music of his own -[6000.86 --> 6005.32] Awake my soul and sing -[6005.32 --> 6009.88] Of him who died to be -[6009.88 --> 6014.76] Your Savior and your matchless King -[6014.76 --> 6017.82] Throughout eternity -[6017.82 --> 6025.96] Crown him the Lord of life -[6025.96 --> 6030.58] Triumphant o'er the grave -[6030.58 --> 6035.72] Who rose victorious from the strife -[6035.72 --> 6039.84] For those he came to save -[6039.84 --> 6044.80] His glories now we sing -[6044.80 --> 6049.62] Who died and reigns on high -[6049.62 --> 6054.70] He died eternal life to bring -[6054.70 --> 6059.66] And lives that death may die -[6059.66 --> 6066.92] Crown him the Lord of peace -[6066.92 --> 6071.48] His kingdom is at hand -[6071.48 --> 6075.70] From pole to pole let warfare cease -[6075.70 --> 6080.66] That Christ rule every land -[6080.66 --> 6085.12] Oh hail, Redeemer, hail -[6085.12 --> 6089.44] For you have died for me -[6089.44 --> 6094.44] Your praise shall never, never fail -[6094.44 --> 6097.76] Throughout eternity -[6097.76 --> 6111.72] As you go into this week -[6111.72 --> 6114.74] Know that you go with the blessing of God -[6114.74 --> 6116.78] And go also with this invitation -[6116.78 --> 6120.14] Take those palm branches that you have received -[6120.14 --> 6121.72] And they're stacked still by the door -[6121.72 --> 6123.28] So take more as you go -[6123.28 --> 6126.04] And consider how you might -[6126.04 --> 6129.16] Display them in your home -[6129.16 --> 6130.92] Or prominently on your door -[6130.92 --> 6133.04] Fashion them into a wreath if you like -[6133.04 --> 6134.62] Which is very traditional practice -[6134.62 --> 6136.22] And hang them there -[6136.22 --> 6138.50] For the world to see -[6138.50 --> 6140.10] That this week -[6140.10 --> 6142.90] You are journeying with Jesus to the cross -[6142.90 --> 6145.62] And that on Friday as we gather and remember -[6145.62 --> 6148.96] We do so in the hope of Sunday to come -[6148.96 --> 6151.52] That the tomb is empty -[6151.52 --> 6155.52] And so please take some palm branches with you as you go -[6155.52 --> 6157.18] And then lastly -[6157.18 --> 6160.18] If you are able or interested in -[6160.18 --> 6163.46] Picking up the Mexico mission team -[6163.46 --> 6165.04] Grab me at the back -[6165.04 --> 6166.38] We'll figure out those details -[6166.38 --> 6169.42] Go with God -[6169.42 --> 6170.60] Receive his blessing -[6170.60 --> 6174.68] God go before you to lead you -[6174.68 --> 6177.28] God go behind you to protect you -[6177.28 --> 6179.30] God go beneath you to support you -[6179.30 --> 6182.32] And God go beside you to befriend you -[6182.32 --> 6184.58] Do not be afraid -[6184.58 --> 6188.58] Let the blessing of God come upon you today -[6188.58 --> 6190.34] Do not be afraid -[6190.34 --> 6195.04] But go in peace with your Messiah King -[6195.04 --> 6196.48] And all God's people said -[6196.48 --> 6197.42] Amen -[6204.68 --> 6218.18] You're the Lion of Judah -[6218.18 --> 6220.28] The Lamb who was slain -[6220.28 --> 6222.30] He ascended to heaven -[6222.30 --> 6224.22] And evermore will reign -[6224.22 --> 6226.28] At the end of the age -[6226.28 --> 6228.42] When the earth you relays -[6228.42 --> 6232.00] You will gather the nations before you -[6232.00 --> 6234.44] And the eyes of all men -[6234.44 --> 6235.48] Will be fixed -[6235.48 --> 6239.22] To the Lamb who was crucified -[6239.22 --> 6243.66] With wisdom and mercy and justice -[6243.66 --> 6248.54] You'll reign at your Father's side -[6248.54 --> 6250.68] And the angels will cry -[6250.68 --> 6253.96] Hail the Lamb -[6253.96 --> 6258.70] Who was slain for the world -[6258.70 --> 6261.86] Ruling by -[6261.86 --> 6266.56] And the earth will reply -[6266.56 --> 6270.56] You shall reign -[6270.56 --> 6274.36] As the King of all kings -[6274.36 --> 6277.02] And the Lord of all worlds -[6277.02 --> 6286.30] There's a shield in our hand -[6286.30 --> 6288.34] And a sword at our side -[6288.34 --> 6290.40] There's a fire in our spirits -[6290.40 --> 6292.32] That cannot be denied -[6292.32 --> 6294.66] Cause the Father has told us -[6294.66 --> 6296.40] For these you have died -[6296.40 --> 6300.08] For the nations who gather before you -[6300.08 --> 6302.42] And the eyes of all men -[6302.42 --> 6303.50] Need to hear -[6303.50 --> 6304.50] Hail the Lamb -[6304.50 --> 6306.50] Who was crucified -[6306.50 --> 6310.40] Who descended to hell -[6310.40 --> 6311.74] Yet was raised up -[6311.74 --> 6316.42] To reign at his Father's side -[6316.42 --> 6318.58] And the angels will cry -[6318.58 --> 6322.50] Hail the Lamb -[6322.50 --> 6326.44] Who was slain for the world -[6326.44 --> 6329.38] Ruling by -[6329.38 --> 6334.20] And the earth will reply -[6334.20 --> 6334.24] And the earth will reply -[6334.24 --> 6338.38] You shall reign -[6338.38 --> 6342.04] As the King of all kings -[6342.04 --> 6344.20] And the Lord of all lords -[6344.20 --> 6346.12] And the angels will cry -[6346.12 --> 6349.38] Hail the Lamb -[6349.38 --> 6353.92] Who was slain for the world -[6353.92 --> 6356.38] Ruling by -[6356.38 --> 6357.38] And the earth will reply -[6357.38 --> 6361.70] And the earth will reply -[6361.70 --> 6365.38] You shall reign -[6365.38 --> 6369.30] As the King of all kings -[6369.30 --> 6371.38] And the Lord of all lords -[6371.38 --> 6373.26] As the King of all kings -[6373.26 --> 6376.38] And the Lord of all lords -[6376.38 --> 6379.32] And the Lord of all kings -[6379.32 --> 6380.70] Blessed� is number of kings -[6380.70 --> 6381.38] Against the God -[6381.38 --> 6381.80] Dear God -[6381.80 --> 6382.38] You shall reign -[6382.38 --> 6382.64] Amen -[6382.64 --> 6383.98] The Lord of all kings -[6383.98 --> 6385.46] And the Lord of all kings -[6385.46 --> 6386.38] And Geralt -[6386.38 --> 6387.52] Unknown -[6387.52 --> 6388.62] Vice順 -[6388.62 --> 6389.54] Amen -[6389.54 --> 6389.58] Slow -[6389.58 --> 6390.12] Fear -[6390.12 --> 6390.24] Kristen -[6390.24 --> 6391.08] Man -[6391.08 --> 6391.24] 惹 -[6391.24 --> 6392.38] Glow -[6392.38 --> 6392.92] Ven inim -[6392.92 --> 6394.36] Has the King of all kings -[6394.36 --> 6395.98] Ludλ -[6395.98 --> 6396.82] And even -[6396.82 --> 6397.14] Hying -[6397.14 --> 6398.40] Haush -[6398.40 --> 6399.42] pork -[6399.42 --> 6400.28] images -[6400.28 --> 6401.70] Flynn -[6401.70 --> 6402.66] Water -[6402.66 --> 6403.12] Conservation -[6403.76 --> 6404.46] répondre -[6404.46 --> 6404.72] Free -[6404.72 --> 6404.88] Spirit -[6404.88 --> 6405.76] 入 -[6406.38 --> 6436.36] Thank you. -[6436.38 --> 6466.36] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, March 3, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, March 3, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 99787ab1b0e8434a64913c32f89e800e6877539f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, March 3, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,90 +0,0 @@ -• Announcements for Mexico Mission dinner and fundraiser -• Youth Coffee event after church -• Welcome and greeting from Pastor Chris -• Reading of Psalm 8 and invitation to worship -• Worship of God's majesty and authority -• Humanity's tendency to forget God's authority and try to take control -• The cross as a symbol of surrender and trust in God's sovereignty -• Reflection on why Jesus had to die and what it means for human understanding of God's authority -• Coming to the cross in confession, worship, and seeking mercy and grace -• The importance of faith in Christ Jesus -• The atonement of Christ, including his sacrifice on the cross and his offering of himself for our sins -• The forgiveness of sins through faith in Christ -• The surpassing value of knowing that Christ is our Lord -• The sufficiency of Christ's one sacrifice to reconcile us with God forever -• A hymn or prayer to God, expressing praise and thanksgiving for His faithfulness and love -• Repeated "amen" responses from an unknown speaker -• Introduction by Yap, a deacon at Langley Emanuel, to take a collection for Cascade Christian Counseling -• Description of Cascade Christian Counseling and its mission -• Invitation to the children to participate in a puzzle-related activity during worship time -• Discussion about puzzles, including ones that are challenging to complete -• Children's worship will discuss being peacemakers -• The church will offer a blessing to the congregation -• Tax receipts are available for pickup -• Next week is the Lord's Supper -• Prayers and announcements for health concerns: Greta Visser's sister Evelyn, Kobe DeBorsap, Ellen White's recovery from hip surgery -• A prayer for guidance and strength in daily life -• Requests for healing for those struggling with illness or pain -• Family camping trips at Kilbear Provincial Park -• Development of a family rule against discussing politics and religion due to disagreements -• Offending others through discussions on sensitive topics, specifically aiming to offend equally around the room -• Reading Romans 13:1-7 together in church services for two weeks -• The importance of submitting to authorities as they serve God's purposes -• Responsible citizenship involves understanding the order of governance and recognizing that authorities are established by God -• The governing authorities are part of God's providential hand in creating and upholding societal structures for His purposes -• Authorities can be understood on a macro (big movements of history) or micro (individual actions) level, but also includes ordinary means like medicine and governmental authority -• There are multiple spheres of authority established by God as part of the creation order -• The distinction between governing authorities and other established authorities such as family, church, arts, and natural sciences -• The idea that each authority sphere has its own realm of interest and should function autonomously -• The importance of recognizing the limits on the scope of earthly authorities and the role of the state in maintaining those limits -• The potential for abuse of power by individuals or groups within an authority sphere -• The tendency of the state to over-function in its responsibilities, leading citizens to upload responsibilities to a higher body. -• The authority of governing bodies is established by God -• Responsible citizens understand the limits of power and put checks in place to balance authority -• Rebellion against authority is rebellion against what God has instituted, leading to judgment on oneself -• Obedience to authority is a key aspect of responsible citizenship, as seen in 1 Peter 2 and Titus 3 -• Slander, hatred, and disobedience towards governing authorities are contrary to biblical teachings -• The Roman Empire and its treatment of Christians, including persecution -• Peter's letter to early Christian communities facing persecution -• The New Testament instruction to honor governing authorities -• Submitting to governing authorities as a default position for Christians -• Recognizing limits of authority when it conflicts with God's created order -• The Bible instructs giving to everyone what you owe them, including taxes and revenue. -• Paul echoes Jesus' statement in Matthew 22:21 about giving to Caesar what is Caesar's and God what is God's. -• Jesus challenges the idea that the state or emperor has divine authority and deserves worship. -• There are limits to submission and obedience, including not worshiping anything other than God. -• The ruler is considered God's servant for good, responsible for operating under God's moral order. -• Discussion of a scene from The Lion King where Simba asks his father about being king -• Explanation of the underlying principle that rulers should support doing right and not require doing wrong -• Reference to Romans 13 and Acts in the Bible as examples of obeying God over human authorities -• Peter's statements in Acts 4 and 5 emphasizing obedience to God over man-made laws -• Reflection on the importance of choosing to obey God even if it has consequences -• Christians have a responsibility to obey governing authorities -• There are three ways Christians share and live this responsibility: submission, submitting according to conscience, and responsible citizenship -• Submission involves paying taxes, acting as civil servants, contributing to society's well-being, and praying for leaders -• Submitting according to conscience requires evaluating the state in relation to governing authorities and obeying based on God's established order -• Responsible citizens do good and act righteously, not out of fear but because it is their conscience -• The motivation behind obedience is to obey God, who has established the state, rather than solely out of a desire to avoid punishment. -• The importance of living as Christians influences what others think about God and Christianity -• Praying for political leaders is a crucial aspect of living peaceful and quiet lives in goodness and holiness -• An atmosphere of quiet and peaceful living allows Christians to pursue activities consistent with God's will -• This atmosphere enables various aspects of life, such as raising families in the Lord, serving community needs, and spreading the gospel -• Doing good for goodness sake is essential for responsible citizens and benefits the message of the church -• The impact of faith on politics -• Responsible citizenship and doing good -• Created order and justice in society -• Matters of conscience and living a life that honors God -• Prayer for guidance and application of faith to everyday life -• Invoking God's presence and kingdom -• Asking for gentleness, respect, and to serve others -• Praying for power, peace, justice, and protection from harm -• Seeking God's promise, word, and faithfulness -• Mentioning Christ, His spirit, and the role of prophets -• Expressing a desire for freedom from sin and death -• Asking for guidance and empowerment in serving others -• Kingdom of God and the power of the gospel -• Standing on faith, raising hearts, and overcoming challenges -• Children of the mountains, raising human souls, and doing a race in Israel -• Invitations to fellowship, prayer, and community after the service -• Blessings and prayers for protection, support, and friendship -• Call to responsible citizenship and love for the Lord \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, March 3, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, March 3, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 638318c366f199669a53ac894a240b48158c0928..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, March 3, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1693 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 62.00] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 92.00] Thank you. -[92.00 --> 94.00] Thank you. -[122.00 --> 124.00] Thank you. -[124.00 --> 126.00] Thank you. -[126.00 --> 128.00] Thank you. -[156.00 --> 158.00] Thank you. -[158.00 --> 160.00] Thank you. -[160.00 --> 162.00] Thank you. -[162.00 --> 164.00] Thank you. -[164.00 --> 166.00] Thank you. -[166.00 --> 168.00] Thank you. -[168.00 --> 170.00] Thank you. -[170.00 --> 172.00] Thank you. -[172.00 --> 174.00] Thank you. -[174.00 --> 176.68] All praise to God the Father. -[177.28 --> 180.42] All praise to Christ the Son. -[180.84 --> 183.82] All praise to the Holy Spirit. -[184.50 --> 186.86] Our God has overcome. -[188.14 --> 193.82] The King who was and is and evermore will be. -[194.28 --> 198.24] In Jesus' mighty name, I am the King. -[204.00 --> 233.98] The King who was and is and evermore will be. -[234.00 --> 263.98] The King who was and is and evermore will be. -[264.00 --> 271.08] Oh no, I'll ever be ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ. -[271.48 --> 278.74] How could I ever walk away from the one who saved my life? -[278.74 --> 283.76] All praise to God the Father. -[283.76 --> 286.82] All praise to Christ the Son. -[287.82 --> 290.98] All praise to the Holy Spirit. -[291.56 --> 293.98] Our God has overcome. -[293.98 --> 300.76] The King who was and is and evermore will be. -[300.76 --> 305.76] In Jesus' mighty name, I pray. -[305.76 --> 312.56] All praise to God the Father. -[312.56 --> 312.84] All praise to God the Father. -[312.84 --> 316.24] All praise to Christ the Son. -[316.24 --> 319.78] All praise to the Holy Spirit. -[319.78 --> 320.78] Our God has overcome. -[320.78 --> 322.94] Our God has overcome. -[322.94 --> 329.72] The King who was and is and evermore will be. -[329.72 --> 336.80] In Jesus' mighty name, I pray. -[336.80 --> 338.80] In Jesus' mighty name, I pray. -[338.80 --> 344.36] Good morning, everyone. -[347.18 --> 348.04] Thanks, Ruby. -[348.24 --> 349.00] How are we doing? -[350.70 --> 351.22] Awesome. -[351.42 --> 353.26] Thank you for being here. -[353.36 --> 356.16] A special welcome to you if you're a guest among us. -[356.32 --> 357.14] My name is Chris. -[357.14 --> 362.90] I'm one of the pastors here, and it's my privilege, along with these others on stage and a few -[362.90 --> 367.70] that we haven't yet revealed to you, to lead in our worship together this morning. -[368.02 --> 372.96] Before we begin in worship, there's a couple of announcements to make and to share with you. -[372.96 --> 380.04] First, a huge thank you to everyone who came out to the Mexico Mission dinner and fundraiser -[380.04 --> 381.36] last night that was here. -[381.36 --> 389.50] The dessert auction is always a ton of fun, even if my son goes home sad every time because -[389.50 --> 392.76] we just don't have enough money to pay the way you guys pay for desserts. -[393.50 --> 396.90] So thank you for your generosity in that on behalf of the team. -[397.40 --> 400.06] It's really an amazing time to be together. -[400.90 --> 402.70] As well, one last announcement. -[403.34 --> 405.74] Youth Coffee is happening after church. -[405.74 --> 412.90] And so if you're a youth that's sort of grade 8 to high school aged and would like to go -[412.90 --> 417.40] to someone's house for coffee after church, you can get details from Pastor Kevin about -[417.40 --> 417.72] that. -[418.14 --> 420.58] You're heading to the Baumann's, so Rob is over there. -[420.64 --> 422.18] He can give you details on how to get there. -[423.02 --> 427.46] And if you have any questions, grab either one of them and they will address them. -[428.06 --> 429.70] I think that's it for this morning. -[430.04 --> 433.22] And so I'm going to invite you, as you're able and where you are, to stand. -[433.22 --> 438.04] And we can be welcomed into God's presence by receiving his greeting. -[440.16 --> 445.14] After we receive the greeting of God, I invite you to turn to those around you and welcome -[445.14 --> 446.64] them into worship. -[447.34 --> 451.06] Just a reminder that not everyone wants to shake hands or give hugs. -[451.32 --> 460.98] And so gauge the person across from you intentionally as you offer your hand or a fist bump or a head -[460.98 --> 461.28] nod. -[461.68 --> 462.98] Either way is appropriate. -[463.22 --> 465.18] To welcome each other into worship. -[465.46 --> 467.18] Receive the greeting of our God. -[469.00 --> 472.18] Grace, mercy, and peace to you. -[472.52 --> 477.40] From God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, His Son and our Savior, through the presence -[477.40 --> 479.24] and power of the Holy Spirit. -[480.30 --> 480.72] Amen. -[482.20 --> 483.26] Greet those around you. -[484.96 --> 485.68] Good morning. -[493.22 --> 515.82] Hear these words from Psalm 8 and tune your hearts to worship our Lord and King. -[515.82 --> 520.30] Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth. -[520.60 --> 522.74] You have set your glory in the heavens. -[523.28 --> 527.78] Through the praise of children and infants, you have established a stronghold against your -[527.78 --> 530.20] enemies to silence the foe and the avenger. -[530.70 --> 534.78] When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars which you have -[534.78 --> 538.22] set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them? -[538.48 --> 540.20] Human beings that you care for them. -[540.20 --> 545.22] You have made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor. -[545.94 --> 548.22] You made them rulers over the works of your hands. -[548.60 --> 554.06] You put everything under their feet, all flocks and herds, and all the animals of the wild, -[554.24 --> 559.34] and the birds in the sky, and the fish in the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas. -[559.34 --> 563.48] Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth. -[563.48 --> 569.52] blood, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth. -[569.52 --> 575.52] Humphreys who ceases in heaven, give us your name in all the earth. -[575.58 --> 581.34] While their碼ys and 시청 groups worship your hand, всю in alleys glory and our thoughts. -[581.34 --> 581.58] And the Church of diluate with the Son, the Father with great influence. -[582.42 --> 585.76] Lord, let your Father would lead on you to worship your hand, God with great honesty, -[586.52 --> 589.16] a year of love and fear of God with praising you. -[590.62 --> 592.42] And your Lord, how Chevroys of Christ, how man with so manywho've long with yourgs and whatenerE capacities and our gifts, -[592.42 --> 594.42] Oh -[622.42 --> 636.42] is -[652.42 --> 666.42] is -[682.42 --> 696.42] is -[712.42 --> 726.42] is -[742.42 --> 756.42] is -[768.42 --> 770.42] is -[772.42 --> 786.42] is -[786.42 --> 792.42] is -[802.42 --> 812.42] is -[812.42 --> 814.42] is -[814.42 --> 816.42] is -[816.42 --> 826.42] is -[826.42 --> 828.42] is -[828.42 --> 830.42] is -[830.42 --> 832.42] is -[832.42 --> 834.42] is -[834.42 --> 836.42] is -[836.42 --> 838.42] is -[838.42 --> 840.42] is -[840.42 --> 842.42] is -[842.42 --> 844.42] is -[844.42 --> 846.42] is -[846.42 --> 848.42] is -[848.42 --> 850.42] is -[850.42 --> 852.42] is -[852.42 --> 854.42] is -[854.42 --> 860.42] is -[860.42 --> 862.42] is -[862.42 --> 864.42] is -[864.42 --> 866.42] is -[866.42 --> 868.42] is -[868.42 --> 870.42] is -[870.42 --> 872.42] is -[872.42 --> 874.42] is -[874.42 --> 878.42] is -[878.42 --> 880.78] we give in to fear because of the state of our world. -[881.32 --> 883.70] We forget that you have authority over everything, -[884.06 --> 885.64] every nation, every leader. -[886.16 --> 888.96] You have kingdom authority, and you are sovereign in every act. -[889.50 --> 893.52] We forget your authority and crown ourselves as king in our own lives. -[894.22 --> 896.02] As we walk through the season of Lent, -[896.38 --> 898.64] we look to the cross and we think of your disciples, -[899.32 --> 901.66] pondering how they must have felt at the crucifixion. -[902.12 --> 903.84] Why did Jesus have to die? -[904.38 --> 907.26] Why did their leader, their teacher, their friend, -[907.26 --> 910.04] allow the authorities of this earth to crucify him? -[910.64 --> 912.46] What king dies on the path to victory? -[913.34 --> 916.76] God, we come to the cross, humbly offering our fears, -[917.30 --> 920.44] humbly laying down our visions of what your glory and authority -[920.44 --> 921.76] should look like on this earth, -[922.38 --> 925.02] humbly giving up our self-proclaimed crowns. -[926.24 --> 929.92] We come to the cross, recognizing our need to trust you, -[930.48 --> 932.10] yielding to the mystery of your working, -[932.76 --> 935.80] seeking your mercy and grace for our sin and for our weakness. -[935.80 --> 938.54] Jesus, we come before you, -[938.96 --> 943.04] journeying towards and kneeling at the cross in confession and in worship. -[943.04 --> 945.04] Wow. -[945.70 --> 946.00] Yes. -[946.00 --> 946.70] Amen. -[946.70 --> 947.00] Amen. -[947.22 --> 947.54] Amen. -[947.54 --> 947.86] Amen. -[947.86 --> 948.22] Amen. -[948.22 --> 949.76] Amen. -[949.76 --> 951.78] Amen. -[954.24 --> 954.32] Amen. -[954.32 --> 954.68] Amen. -[954.68 --> 956.50] Amen. -[956.50 --> 957.88] Yes. -[957.88 --> 958.06] Amen. -[958.08 --> 958.14] Amen. -[958.14 --> 958.96] Amen. -[958.96 --> 959.90] Amen. -[959.90 --> 960.60] Amen. -[960.70 --> 960.90] Amen. -[960.90 --> 960.94] Amen. -[961.06 --> 961.44] Amen. -[961.44 --> 962.00] Amen. -[962.42 --> 963.02] Amen. -[963.06 --> 964.16] Amen. -[964.16 --> 964.34] Amen. -[965.00 --> 966.98] Amen. -[967.58 --> 967.76] Amen. -[967.76 --> 968.52] Amen. -[970.70 --> 971.10] Amen. -[971.10 --> 988.22] I come to the cross seeking mercy and grace. I come to the cross where you died in my place. -[988.22 --> 1001.82] Out of my weakness and into strength, only I come to the cross. -[1003.28 --> 1016.22] Your arms are open, you call me my name. You love this child that was lost. -[1016.22 --> 1037.14] You lay a price for my guilt and my shame. Jesus I come. Jesus I come. Jesus I come to the cross. -[1037.14 --> 1052.42] I come to the cross seeking mercy and grace. I come to the cross where you died in my place. -[1052.42 --> 1064.42] Out of my weakness and into your strength, only I come to the cross. -[1064.42 --> 1078.42] Your arms are open, you call me my name. You love this child that was lost. -[1078.42 --> 1093.42] You pay a price for my guilt and my shame. Jesus I come. Jesus I come. -[1093.42 --> 1099.42] Jesus I come to the cross. -[1099.42 --> 1101.42] I come to the cross. -[1101.42 --> 1104.92] As you are able, let us stand together. -[1105.92 --> 1107.68] Rise up, O people of God. -[1108.90 --> 1114.68] Stand and declare your belief, as you have just sung that Christ died in our place. -[1114.68 --> 1121.54] Speak these words with me from the Belgic Confession about the Atonement of Christ and believe it in your hearts. -[1121.54 --> 1126.44] Remember the faithfulness of God, the pardon for sin, and a hope for tomorrow, -[1127.02 --> 1130.50] because of the gift of faith in Christ Jesus, our Lord and Savior. -[1130.50 --> 1131.90] Together let's say, -[1131.90 --> 1140.76] We believe that Jesus Christ is a high priest for ever and ever according to the Lord and the Lord and the Lord and the Lord and the Lord. -[1140.76 --> 1148.18] He made such by an oath, and that he exempted himself in our name before his Father, -[1148.76 --> 1152.44] to appease his Father's wrath with full satisfaction, -[1153.08 --> 1156.32] by offering himself on the tree of the cross, -[1157.00 --> 1161.50] and pouring out his precious blood for the cleansing of our sins, -[1161.90 --> 1163.74] as the prophets had predicted. -[1164.70 --> 1168.68] For it is written that what the punishment had made us whole -[1168.68 --> 1171.08] was placed on the Son of God, -[1171.64 --> 1174.50] and that by his cruises he had revealed. -[1175.04 --> 1178.50] He was like the lamb that was led to the slaughter. -[1179.18 --> 1181.64] He was numbered with the transgressors, -[1182.16 --> 1185.16] and he began as a criminal like the Jesus Christ, -[1185.76 --> 1188.66] though the Pilate had declared that he was innocent. -[1188.66 --> 1192.38] So he gave back what he had not stolen, -[1192.90 --> 1193.90] and he suffered, -[1194.32 --> 1196.30] the righteous for the unrighteous, -[1196.80 --> 1199.12] in both his body and his soul, -[1199.66 --> 1205.44] in such a way that when he sensed the horrible punishment required by our sins, -[1206.12 --> 1210.98] his sweat became like great cups of blood falling down on the ground. -[1211.52 --> 1212.36] He cried, -[1212.36 --> 1213.36] My God, -[1213.56 --> 1214.32] My God, -[1214.32 --> 1214.34] My God, -[1214.34 --> 1214.36] My God, -[1214.36 --> 1214.86] My God, -[1214.86 --> 1216.52] Why have you forsaken me? -[1216.98 --> 1220.78] And he endured all this for the forgiveness of our sins. -[1221.82 --> 1222.50] Therefore, -[1222.86 --> 1224.66] we rightly say with all, -[1225.16 --> 1229.80] that we know nothing except Jesus Christ and the Him who crucified. -[1230.70 --> 1233.04] We regard everything as lost, -[1233.36 --> 1238.30] because of the surpassing value of knowing that Christ is our Lord. -[1238.30 --> 1242.20] We find all our hurts in His wounds, -[1242.62 --> 1248.96] and have no need to seek or invent any other means to reconcile ourselves with God, -[1249.50 --> 1251.96] and this one and only sacrifice, -[1252.44 --> 1253.32] once made, -[1253.68 --> 1256.34] which renders believers perfect forever. -[1257.36 --> 1261.24] This is also why the angel of God called Him Jesus, -[1261.76 --> 1263.00] that it is sacred, -[1263.52 --> 1266.68] because He will save His people from their sins. -[1267.32 --> 1267.66] is -[1267.66 --> 1282.28] His people from His love? -[1282.28 --> 1282.70] Yes. -[1284.22 --> 1284.42] is -[1284.42 --> 1284.94] is -[1284.94 --> 1285.14] is -[1285.14 --> 1285.78] is -[1285.88 --> 1288.36] is -[1288.36 --> 1288.92] is -[1289.52 --> 1291.42] is -[1291.42 --> 1311.82] It is my faithfulness, O God, my Father. -[1311.82 --> 1319.82] There is no shadow of journey with me. -[1319.82 --> 1328.82] Thou changeest all the compassions they belong. -[1329.42 --> 1336.34] As the words be and forever will be. -[1337.72 --> 1344.82] Great is my faithfulness, free is my faithfulness. -[1344.82 --> 1352.82] For in my glory new mercies I see. -[1353.82 --> 1360.82] God, I am free, I am the full of my hills. -[1361.82 --> 1368.82] Great is my faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[1368.82 --> 1378.82] Summer and winter and springtime and harvest. -[1378.82 --> 1386.82] Sun and stars in their courses above. -[1387.82 --> 1394.82] Join with all nature in man and full witness. -[1395.82 --> 1402.82] To my great faithfulness, mercy and love. -[1402.82 --> 1410.82] Great is my faithfulness, the ways I give the rest. -[1411.82 --> 1417.82] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[1417.82 --> 1426.82] I am free, I am free, I am the full of my hills. -[1426.82 --> 1432.82] Great is my faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[1432.82 --> 1444.82] Morning, Lord, sing in the peace that endures. -[1444.82 --> 1452.82] My own dear presence to cheer and to die. -[1452.82 --> 1453.82] Stay for today, my faithfulness. -[1453.82 --> 1458.82] Stay for today, my faithfulness. -[1458.82 --> 1468.82] For tomorrow, blessing of mine in ten thousand east night. -[1469.82 --> 1473.82] Great is my faithfulness. -[1473.82 --> 1476.82] Great is my faithfulness. -[1476.82 --> 1480.82] Lord, I am free, I am the full of my hills. -[1480.82 --> 1485.82] Great is my faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[1485.82 --> 1486.82] Amen. -[1486.82 --> 1488.82] Amen. -[1488.82 --> 1494.82] Great is my faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[1494.82 --> 1501.82] Great is my faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[1501.82 --> 1503.82] Amen. -[1503.82 --> 1505.82] Amen. -[1505.82 --> 1506.82] Amen. -[1506.82 --> 1507.82] Amen. -[1507.82 --> 1508.82] Amen. -[1508.82 --> 1509.82] Amen. -[1509.82 --> 1512.82] Amen. -[1512.82 --> 1514.82] Amen. -[1514.82 --> 1515.82] Amen. -[1544.82 --> 1546.82] Amen. -[1574.82 --> 1576.82] Amen. -[1604.82 --> 1606.82] Amen. -[1634.82 --> 1636.82] Amen. -[1664.82 --> 1666.82] Amen. -[1694.82 --> 1696.82] Amen. -[1724.82 --> 1726.82] Amen. -[1754.82 --> 1755.82] Amen. -[1755.82 --> 1756.82] Amen. -[1756.82 --> 1758.82] Amen. -[1758.82 --> 1761.82] Amen. -[1761.82 --> 1762.82] Amen. -[1762.82 --> 1763.82] Amen. -[1763.82 --> 1765.82] Amen. -[1765.82 --> 1766.82] Amen. -[1766.82 --> 1767.82] Amen. -[1767.82 --> 1768.82] Amen. -[1768.82 --> 1769.82] Amen. -[1769.82 --> 1771.82] Amen. -[1771.82 --> 1773.82] Good morning. -[1773.82 --> 1774.82] My name's Yap. -[1774.82 --> 1776.82] I'm a deacon here at Langley Emanuel. -[1776.82 --> 1781.82] This morning's collection will be for Cascade Christian Counseling. -[1781.82 --> 1791.04] Cascade Christian Counseling is a local non-profit organization providing a caring, faith-based approach to helping people move towards healing. -[1791.72 --> 1793.72] Please give as you're able to. Thank you. -[1811.82 --> 1841.80] Thank you. -[1841.82 --> 1871.80] Thank you. -[1871.82 --> 1873.82] Thank you. -[1873.82 --> 1875.82] Thank you. -[1901.82 --> 1903.82] Thank you. -[1903.82 --> 1905.82] Thank you. -[1905.82 --> 1907.82] Thank you. -[1907.82 --> 1909.82] Thank you. -[1909.82 --> 1911.82] Thank you. -[1911.82 --> 1913.82] Thank you. -[1913.82 --> 1915.82] Thank you. -[1915.82 --> 1917.82] Thank you. -[1917.82 --> 1919.82] Thank you. -[1919.82 --> 1921.82] Thank you. -[1921.82 --> 1923.82] Thank you. -[1923.82 --> 1925.82] Thank you. -[1925.82 --> 1927.82] Thank you. -[1927.82 --> 1929.82] Thank you. -[1929.82 --> 1931.82] Thank you. -[1931.82 --> 1933.82] Thank you. -[1933.82 --> 1935.82] Thank you. -[1935.82 --> 1937.82] Thank you. -[1937.82 --> 1939.82] Thank you. -[1939.82 --> 1941.82] Thank you. -[1941.82 --> 1943.82] Thank you. -[1943.82 --> 1945.82] Thank you. -[1945.82 --> 1947.82] Thank you. -[1947.82 --> 1949.82] Thank you. -[1949.82 --> 1951.82] Thank you. -[1951.82 --> 1953.82] Thank you. -[1953.82 --> 1955.82] Thank you. -[1955.82 --> 1957.82] Thank you. -[1957.82 --> 1959.82] Thank you. -[1959.82 --> 1961.82] Thank you. -[1961.82 --> 1963.82] Thank you. -[1963.82 --> 1965.82] Thank you. -[1965.82 --> 1967.82] Thank you. -[1967.82 --> 1969.82] Thank you. -[1969.82 --> 1971.82] Thank you. -[1971.82 --> 1973.82] Thank you. -[1973.82 --> 1975.82] Thank you. -[1975.82 --> 1977.82] Thank you. -[1977.82 --> 1979.82] Thank you. -[1979.82 --> 1981.82] Thank you. -[1981.82 --> 1983.82] Thank you. -[1983.82 --> 1985.82] Thank you. -[1985.82 --> 1987.82] Thank you. -[1987.84 --> 1989.82] Thank you. -[1989.82 --> 1998.54] Give your eyes to joyful service, and sing His praises, love, and air. -[2000.16 --> 2010.64] Give your eyes to joyful service, and sing His praises, love, and air. -[2019.82 --> 2026.66] Good morning. I'd like to invite any of the kids up. -[2026.66 --> 2034.96] If you're age 3, up until grade 4, you can come join us at the front for a moment before we head off to our worship and children's worship time. -[2042.44 --> 2047.16] I'm wondering if any of you kids have ever done a puzzle before. -[2047.16 --> 2050.94] Lots of you have done a puzzle before. Excellent. -[2051.40 --> 2054.66] Do you think that if I asked... Amazing. -[2055.22 --> 2058.82] Do you think if I asked the whole church that some of them might have done a puzzle before, too? -[2059.44 --> 2063.14] I'm going to ask them. Has anyone else here ever done a puzzle? -[2063.26 --> 2065.28] We could just raise your hand if you've ever done a puzzle. -[2066.34 --> 2068.48] Okay, lots of them have done a puzzle, too. -[2069.52 --> 2073.72] Have you ever done a puzzle that took you, like, maybe more than a whole day, -[2073.72 --> 2077.24] because there were so many pieces and they were a little bit tricky to put together? -[2077.56 --> 2077.82] Yeah? -[2078.48 --> 2080.14] I've done some of those before, too. -[2080.58 --> 2083.20] And sometimes, I kind of wanted to give up. -[2083.60 --> 2086.84] We had a puzzle once, and it was a whole bunch of dogs and these doors, -[2086.96 --> 2089.02] and the doors, you know what? They all look the same. -[2089.54 --> 2092.56] And the black looked the same, and after a few days, we thought, -[2092.64 --> 2094.52] are we ever going to finish this puzzle? -[2094.52 --> 2094.96] Yeah. -[2099.78 --> 2100.10] Yeah. -[2101.62 --> 2105.12] It might have taken two days, because sometimes puzzles can be really hard. -[2105.84 --> 2106.16] Wow. -[2108.66 --> 2111.34] In the end, I was really glad when I finished the puzzle, -[2111.44 --> 2112.86] even though it was really hard work, -[2112.94 --> 2115.14] and maybe you could remember a puzzle that you've done, -[2115.32 --> 2118.02] that in the end, when you saw the whole picture, you thought, -[2118.34 --> 2119.62] wow, this is really cool. -[2119.62 --> 2122.90] I'm glad that I actually finished the whole puzzle and got to see it -[2122.90 --> 2126.20] before you probably took it apart and put it back in the box. -[2126.84 --> 2127.98] So you could do it again another day. -[2128.64 --> 2132.60] So today in children's worship, we're going to talk about being peacemakers -[2132.60 --> 2135.50] and how that can be a really hard job sometimes, -[2136.26 --> 2139.64] but that it's worth it in the end, because that's how Jesus calls us to live. -[2140.32 --> 2143.08] So before we go off to learn more about that, -[2143.12 --> 2146.84] we're going to stand up, and we're going to offer our blessing to the church, -[2146.84 --> 2148.60] and they're going to give one back in return. -[2149.62 --> 2150.62] Amen. -[2153.62 --> 2156.32] The Lord be with you. -[2156.64 --> 2158.16] And also with you. -[2179.62 --> 2185.18] Good morning. -[2185.78 --> 2186.96] I'm Steve and Elder here. -[2188.66 --> 2190.76] Before I pray, I have a couple announcements. -[2191.10 --> 2193.72] One, if you haven't noticed, your tax receipts are in the mailbox, -[2194.26 --> 2195.96] so you can find them there after the service. -[2195.96 --> 2199.94] And then next week we'll be celebrating the Lord's Supper, -[2200.12 --> 2202.58] so we can look forward to that. -[2202.58 --> 2209.10] And also a few prayers and announcements, health concerns that are not in the Bolton, -[2209.16 --> 2209.94] I'll be praying for. -[2210.56 --> 2213.36] One is Greta Visser. -[2214.70 --> 2219.34] Her sister Evelyn sounds like it's very critical now. -[2219.34 --> 2226.44] She's got a serious lung infection, heart infection, is on a ventilator in ICU, Royal Caribbean. -[2227.14 --> 2230.94] She suffered a stroke last night, so the next little while is very critical. -[2231.76 --> 2232.68] So pray for her. -[2232.68 --> 2235.30] And also for Kobe DeBorsap. -[2236.08 --> 2240.70] She's a daughter-in-law of Robin Mary and Foram remembers here. -[2240.92 --> 2244.44] She's battling leukemia right now and receiving treatment. -[2244.56 --> 2248.52] She's a young mom, so it's a very difficult situation there as well. -[2248.52 --> 2251.04] So we'll pray for her and the family. -[2253.22 --> 2254.14] Let us pray. -[2257.36 --> 2260.30] Gracious God, Father, our Lord Jesus Christ, -[2260.72 --> 2263.10] we come to you with hearts full of praise, -[2263.42 --> 2265.98] grateful for the grace and mercy we have received from you, -[2266.60 --> 2269.14] thankful for the relationship we have with you, -[2269.62 --> 2273.58] knowing that you are there beside us in both our joys and our sorrows. -[2273.58 --> 2278.84] As we see the first signs of spring, we look forward to warmer days ahead. -[2279.08 --> 2280.82] We praise you for the wonders of creation, -[2281.34 --> 2283.88] for the beauty in nature, for the gift of each day. -[2284.42 --> 2287.30] We pray that we may be good stewards of the earth and the resources -[2287.30 --> 2289.14] and good neighbors to all. -[2289.72 --> 2293.68] May your love be continually shown through our actions and our words. -[2294.30 --> 2296.48] We pray for the people of all nations. -[2296.94 --> 2300.18] We pray for the end of poverty, hunger, disease, injustice, -[2300.54 --> 2302.56] for violence and wars to cease. -[2303.58 --> 2305.78] May those who are in governance and positions of power -[2305.78 --> 2307.84] work towards true justice and peace. -[2308.50 --> 2311.20] We thank you for this church and for our congregation -[2311.20 --> 2314.42] and those in leadership, our staff, our council, committees, -[2314.54 --> 2315.58] and our numerous volunteers. -[2317.04 --> 2319.64] We are thankful for the Mexico mission team -[2319.64 --> 2321.22] and that they could hold a dinner yesterday. -[2321.76 --> 2323.98] We pray for them as they make their final preparations -[2323.98 --> 2325.14] for the trip this spring. -[2326.56 --> 2329.48] Guide us by your Holy Spirit in all that we do, -[2329.48 --> 2333.34] that we may work to do your will in all that we may do. -[2335.78 --> 2337.64] We give you thanks in our troubles. -[2338.24 --> 2342.02] We may turn to you, that in your strong arms -[2342.02 --> 2345.88] when we offload our sins, our weariness, our pain, and our grief. -[2346.28 --> 2349.42] We pray for those who are struggling with heavy burden today, -[2349.92 --> 2353.32] including those that are grieving, lonely, anxious, -[2353.32 --> 2356.68] dealing with addiction, struggling with their mental health, -[2356.80 --> 2357.58] their physical health, -[2358.28 --> 2361.00] for those awaiting test results or surgeries, -[2361.18 --> 2362.86] undergoing treatments in pain, -[2363.42 --> 2366.22] or dealing with long-term health issues. -[2366.88 --> 2373.02] This week we specifically pray for Greta Visser's sister, Evelyn, -[2373.22 --> 2375.96] who's obviously in very critical condition right now. -[2376.08 --> 2377.68] We pray for her. -[2378.10 --> 2378.94] We pray for healing. -[2378.94 --> 2383.60] We pray for Greta and give her all the strength she needs in this time -[2383.60 --> 2384.82] of all she's endured. -[2385.70 --> 2390.72] We pray for Kobe DeBoersep's health, -[2390.88 --> 2392.80] and we pray that you can bring her healing -[2392.80 --> 2396.98] and that she can win the battle against leukemia. -[2397.54 --> 2400.98] We pray for the strength for the family of supporting her from afar. -[2401.16 --> 2405.28] She's not at home, and we pray for all those that support her. -[2405.28 --> 2411.30] We pray for Ellen White, who is recovering from a successful hip surgery, -[2411.44 --> 2415.48] and we pray that the rehab goes well and that she can return home. -[2416.34 --> 2417.08] We pray for healing. -[2418.10 --> 2421.44] We pray to be with Pastor Chris as he leads us this morning. -[2421.78 --> 2426.48] We thank you for his willingness to share his gifts, talents, and insights here at Emmanuel. -[2426.68 --> 2429.42] We ask you to bless him and his message this morning. -[2429.60 --> 2433.92] We pray this all in the name of Jesus Christ, your Son, and our Lord and Savior. -[2433.92 --> 2434.54] Amen. -[2435.28 --> 2461.64] When I was a kid, growing up, we would go camping every summer to Kilbear Provincial Park -[2461.64 --> 2465.42] in sort of central northern Ontario. -[2467.36 --> 2471.72] And as I got older, my family started staying there longer and longer. -[2471.86 --> 2475.08] We would go for three weeks, which was the maximum amount of time -[2475.08 --> 2478.26] you were allowed to stay in a provincial park in Ontario at the time. -[2478.78 --> 2482.38] But then my parents got wise to it that you could book back-to-back, -[2482.52 --> 2485.76] and so then we would go for six weeks, and you would just change halfway through. -[2485.76 --> 2491.48] And then my mom figured out when we got a little bit older as teenagers living at home -[2491.48 --> 2497.52] that she could do eight weeks of camping in the summer, and we could just stay back at our house -[2497.52 --> 2500.72] and drive to and from work ourselves or get rides. -[2500.78 --> 2502.30] And so she had a beautiful summer. -[2502.30 --> 2511.08] Eventually, what started happening is as the park started allowing longer and longer camping seasons, -[2511.08 --> 2519.34] we started camping for Thanksgiving weekend in October with our extended De Winter family. -[2519.34 --> 2525.78] And so 45, 50 people would go camping for that weekend. -[2526.56 --> 2533.08] And now Thanksgiving weekend in October in Ontario can sometimes get really cold. -[2534.02 --> 2537.60] And when it's really cold out, you do creative things to stay warm. -[2537.96 --> 2539.60] And so we would get propane heaters. -[2539.68 --> 2544.34] I have one cousin who is a mason, and so he would bring one of those big salamander propane heaters. -[2544.34 --> 2549.40] We would set up tents and then put tarps all around it and create this whole balloon of hot air. -[2551.88 --> 2557.82] And we would gather together in these spaces, very enclosed. -[2559.46 --> 2562.14] And another thing that we would do to stay warm, I should say we, -[2562.46 --> 2566.26] another thing that those who were of legal age to do would stay warm -[2566.26 --> 2568.48] would be to have a couple adult beverages. -[2568.48 --> 2578.18] Now, when you mix confined spaces, adult beverages, and four or five extended days together, -[2578.94 --> 2583.44] certain conversations that you don't normally have come to the table. -[2584.90 --> 2586.54] Yeah, some of you are wondering, oh boy. -[2588.94 --> 2597.76] And so that family camping weekend developed a reputation for people going home upset with each other -[2597.76 --> 2600.86] and us needing to reconcile in the weeks after Thanksgiving. -[2603.86 --> 2607.20] Eventually, the family passed a rule, -[2607.72 --> 2611.76] and it's not an unspoken family rule like you all know, like this rule was spoken. -[2613.34 --> 2617.96] No talking about politics or religion. -[2619.86 --> 2621.96] Because things got divided. -[2622.10 --> 2626.78] As you can imagine, we had a very diverse family of opinions and perspectives. -[2626.78 --> 2628.86] Some of them are stubborn Dutchmen. -[2629.24 --> 2631.64] Others of them are stubborn Scotsmen. -[2632.00 --> 2636.06] And so it was a great time to sit back and watch. -[2637.40 --> 2643.22] Now, I also confess, as I got older and went away to university and started learning things, -[2643.30 --> 2645.50] I tried to contribute to these conversations. -[2646.24 --> 2652.58] Turns out, my expertise and authority in university education meant nothing to anyone in the room, -[2652.58 --> 2654.72] and I didn't hear anything I had to say. -[2656.24 --> 2657.84] And so the rule persisted. -[2658.24 --> 2661.18] No discussion of religion and politics. -[2661.32 --> 2663.14] Why do I make this point to you today? -[2663.72 --> 2667.12] Because today we're going to discuss religion and politics. -[2668.26 --> 2670.04] And here's what I'm confident of. -[2670.40 --> 2673.36] I will offend some of you this morning. -[2673.36 --> 2681.18] My hope is to equally distribute my offense around the room. -[2683.10 --> 2686.30] Further, I hope it's actually not me that's offending you, -[2686.84 --> 2689.54] but it's the Word of God that's offending your sensibilities -[2689.54 --> 2693.76] and challenging your presumptions about how these things work and work together. -[2693.76 --> 2699.52] And so I pray for grace, your grace, and God's grace in this time. -[2699.94 --> 2703.50] And I pray for continued conversation. -[2704.76 --> 2709.84] So follow this up in your circles and in your dining tables, in your care groups and the like. -[2710.00 --> 2711.32] Dive into these things. -[2711.48 --> 2716.64] Let's not be afraid of hard, disagreeable conversations. -[2717.06 --> 2721.94] But may I just say, when you have conversations in which you disagree, -[2721.94 --> 2723.46] don't be disagreeable. -[2724.48 --> 2725.30] Did you get the distinction? -[2726.64 --> 2726.78] Right? -[2726.88 --> 2730.12] Enter into these things well and together and let's see what happens. -[2730.86 --> 2734.32] So this morning and next week, actually, -[2734.44 --> 2736.28] because we're going to do this for two weeks in a row, -[2736.72 --> 2743.06] we're going to read together Romans 13, verse 1 through 7, actually. -[2744.92 --> 2748.30] And so if you have a Bible, I invite you to open it up. -[2748.44 --> 2750.66] The first time we go through, it will be on the screen. -[2750.84 --> 2752.28] There are Bibles at the back. -[2752.28 --> 2755.92] If you don't have one or if you don't have a device with the Bible on it, you can grab one there. -[2757.36 --> 2761.60] And then encourage you as we read to keep that open in front of you. -[2761.60 --> 2768.72] Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, -[2768.72 --> 2773.64] for there is no authority except that which God has established. -[2774.32 --> 2777.92] The authorities that exist have been established by God. -[2777.92 --> 2785.40] Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, -[2785.72 --> 2788.88] and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. -[2788.88 --> 2795.58] For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. -[2796.58 --> 2799.96] Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? -[2800.24 --> 2802.64] Then do what is right, and you will be commended. -[2803.58 --> 2806.50] For the one in authority is God's servant for your good. -[2806.50 --> 2809.64] But if you do wrong, be afraid. -[2809.64 --> 2813.04] For rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. -[2814.20 --> 2819.14] They are God's servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. -[2820.44 --> 2826.24] Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities not only because of possible punishment, -[2826.24 --> 2829.28] but also as a matter of conscience. -[2830.72 --> 2833.30] This is also why you pay taxes, -[2834.02 --> 2838.82] for the authorities are God's servants who give their full time to governing. -[2839.74 --> 2841.92] Give to everyone what you owe them. -[2842.32 --> 2844.10] If you owe taxes, pay taxes. -[2844.38 --> 2845.76] If revenue, then revenue. -[2845.98 --> 2847.56] If respect, then respect. -[2847.86 --> 2850.08] If honor, then honor. -[2851.68 --> 2852.92] This is the word of the Lord. -[2856.24 --> 2864.14] Now, I have already indicated that next week we will be coming back to this text, -[2864.70 --> 2871.34] and that's because I believe in order to do justice to the scope of this content, -[2871.90 --> 2875.76] we are given two things to focus on. -[2876.44 --> 2880.96] And so I'm dividing this text and its principles and themes and applications -[2880.96 --> 2888.26] into two sides of the same sort of authority structure coin. -[2888.26 --> 2890.58] On the one hand, and our focus for today, -[2890.96 --> 2896.50] is what it means to be responsible citizens in the world today, -[2896.60 --> 2898.58] in society that we live. -[2898.86 --> 2902.56] And then on the other side of that coin, where we will look next week, -[2902.76 --> 2907.70] is what does it mean to be responsible or to have responsible governments. -[2907.70 --> 2910.34] And so today we look at citizenship. -[2911.24 --> 2917.12] Next week we'll look at governance or governments and the structures therein. -[2919.18 --> 2925.42] As we dig into today, you will also note that there's a shared foundation -[2925.42 --> 2930.18] for responsible citizens and responsible governing. -[2930.66 --> 2936.06] Now, the big idea, the theme that we're going to operate has sort of four points to it, -[2936.06 --> 2940.98] and that is that responsible citizens understand order. -[2942.36 --> 2944.54] Responsible citizens do what is good. -[2945.48 --> 2948.52] Responsible citizens do good for goodness sake. -[2948.74 --> 2950.00] I'll explain that when we get there. -[2950.40 --> 2954.42] And responsible citizens give equitably as is due. -[2954.78 --> 2956.82] And again, I'll explain that when we get there. -[2957.72 --> 2959.96] Start in that first banner. -[2960.28 --> 2963.14] Responsible citizens understand order. -[2963.14 --> 2968.80] Or, to put it this way, responsible citizens understand that there is an order -[2968.80 --> 2972.08] to the structuring of these things. -[2973.22 --> 2974.80] Verse 1 begins, -[2975.72 --> 2978.60] Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, -[2979.02 --> 2983.74] for there is no authority except that which God has established. -[2984.44 --> 2989.06] The authorities that exist have been established by God. -[2989.06 --> 2996.52] And so the first principle of application to see is that a responsible citizen is someone -[2996.52 --> 3000.62] who first understands that the authority and the government structures -[3000.62 --> 3005.30] are established by God's providential hand. -[3005.98 --> 3010.82] That is, he works to create and uphold and to build them -[3010.82 --> 3014.54] and has particular purposes for them. -[3014.54 --> 3022.44] Now, as Christians, I'm aware that sometimes we talk about God's sovereignty -[3022.44 --> 3025.60] in the sort of super macro level. -[3026.14 --> 3029.48] Right here, we think about the big movements of history, -[3029.96 --> 3034.68] the ebbs and flows of eras and epochs moving in and out, -[3034.80 --> 3036.82] and empires rising and falling. -[3036.82 --> 3044.30] And at other times, we talk about God's sovereignty manifest in his providential work -[3044.30 --> 3046.64] in the small things, the micro things. -[3047.16 --> 3048.56] How does Jesus put it? -[3048.82 --> 3053.72] The not a hair can fall from my head without the will of my Father in heaven kind of way. -[3054.94 --> 3058.52] And so we are familiar with the macro and we are familiar with the micro, -[3058.52 --> 3063.02] but sometimes it's easy for us to overlook the in-between. -[3064.72 --> 3068.10] And included in that in-between, in that middle, -[3069.00 --> 3072.12] might be something like, for instance, -[3072.52 --> 3077.90] God using ordinary means of medicine to bring healing. -[3078.96 --> 3079.46] Right? -[3079.52 --> 3080.90] The healing still happens, -[3081.28 --> 3084.38] and it's the result of God's work in your body, -[3084.38 --> 3088.50] but it's through the means of doctors and hospitals, -[3088.82 --> 3090.24] not through the means of miracles. -[3091.96 --> 3095.84] I want to suggest that sometimes included in that middle -[3095.84 --> 3099.38] is also something like governmental authority. -[3100.22 --> 3100.96] Right? -[3101.00 --> 3107.16] That's established by God for his purposes in providing order to society. -[3108.12 --> 3113.66] The governing authorities are part of the creation order, -[3113.66 --> 3119.48] and they're part of that ongoing providential order of God. -[3119.80 --> 3119.96] Right? -[3120.06 --> 3123.20] God is establishing these authorities. -[3123.46 --> 3126.82] Now, before we dig deep into governance here, -[3126.98 --> 3132.02] let's note that the word used there, authorities, is plural. -[3133.28 --> 3133.42] Right? -[3133.46 --> 3135.58] And so the first thing to see is that there are authorities. -[3136.86 --> 3137.08] Right? -[3137.08 --> 3141.80] God has established multiple authorities as part of the creation order, -[3141.80 --> 3148.16] and these spheres are established by God. -[3148.26 --> 3152.74] These spheres of authority are established by God, -[3152.82 --> 3156.24] and governing authorities are one sphere, -[3156.88 --> 3160.70] and I will suggest to you that they are a sphere that plays a special role -[3160.70 --> 3162.60] in relation to the other spheres, -[3162.98 --> 3164.78] the other established authorities. -[3164.78 --> 3167.86] Now, to make that point, -[3167.96 --> 3172.64] some of those other established authorities, -[3172.64 --> 3175.68] some of those other authority spheres, -[3176.60 --> 3178.50] are things like the family. -[3179.20 --> 3179.40] Right? -[3179.42 --> 3184.42] We believe that the family is one of the actually root authorities -[3184.42 --> 3185.84] in the created order. -[3185.84 --> 3186.44] Right? -[3186.50 --> 3191.50] That parents have a responsibility to raise their kids in the fear of the Lord -[3191.50 --> 3195.68] and have a responsibility to raise their kids as responsible citizens -[3195.68 --> 3197.26] of the kingdom of heaven. -[3198.56 --> 3198.66] Right? -[3199.02 --> 3206.40] Your primary job as a parent isn't only to keep your child alive, -[3206.54 --> 3209.56] but it's to raise healthy, functioning adults. -[3211.02 --> 3211.22] Right? -[3211.24 --> 3215.80] And sometimes when you're in the midst of the trials of raising young, -[3217.28 --> 3218.68] strong-willed children, -[3218.68 --> 3219.60] I have to be careful, -[3219.70 --> 3221.32] and I'm going to keep looking over at this side of the room, -[3221.36 --> 3222.28] not at that side of the room, -[3222.84 --> 3225.60] we can forget that the goal, -[3226.24 --> 3226.54] right, -[3226.58 --> 3230.46] is to raise healthy, functioning adults. -[3231.96 --> 3236.12] Another area or authority that exists, -[3236.22 --> 3236.86] right, of course, -[3236.94 --> 3239.52] would be the church or religious institutions, -[3239.52 --> 3243.56] which have their own realm of interest in the areas of faith -[3243.56 --> 3247.56] and proclamation for us as Christians, -[3247.86 --> 3248.90] for the gospel, -[3249.08 --> 3251.50] but for other religious institutions as well. -[3253.90 --> 3256.02] I'll throw this out there for you to think about, -[3256.12 --> 3260.26] but it was third-century Christians -[3260.26 --> 3267.94] who argued for religious freedoms in the Roman Empire for everyone, -[3268.54 --> 3269.94] not just for Christians. -[3269.94 --> 3275.96] This idea of religious freedom is part of the Christian tradition and influence, -[3276.96 --> 3277.10] right, -[3277.14 --> 3280.60] because we believe these things have their own spheres of authority. -[3282.46 --> 3284.80] Another place, right, -[3284.86 --> 3291.24] because it's not just in these sort of recognizable institutions like family or church, -[3291.24 --> 3296.12] but it's also in things like the arts, -[3296.70 --> 3296.92] right, -[3296.98 --> 3299.86] the arts have their own sphere of authority. -[3300.42 --> 3304.00] Natural sciences have their own sphere of authority. -[3306.12 --> 3309.94] And part of what it means to be a responsible citizen, -[3309.94 --> 3313.18] as we look at that here from Romans 13, -[3313.18 --> 3322.82] is that we recognize that there is a certain order to the structures of authority, -[3322.82 --> 3330.20] and we understand that those authorities sort of function unto themselves. -[3330.20 --> 3334.82] That is to say that the sphere of family is not the sphere of arts, -[3336.28 --> 3336.46] right, -[3336.50 --> 3340.64] or the sphere of church is not the sphere of government. -[3340.64 --> 3344.10] These authorities are different -[3344.10 --> 3347.70] and have different areas to provide for. -[3349.14 --> 3351.22] And what gets into this then, -[3351.28 --> 3353.12] or what comes out of this idea, -[3353.30 --> 3355.78] is that this established order, -[3356.44 --> 3356.64] right, -[3356.70 --> 3360.12] created by God and providentially continued by Him, -[3360.12 --> 3361.72] this established order, -[3362.10 --> 3370.48] then necessarily and certainly comes with limits on the scope of these earthly authorities. -[3370.64 --> 3371.60] That is, -[3371.60 --> 3373.28] they're sort of a bounded set. -[3376.16 --> 3377.52] And I want to suggest to you -[3377.52 --> 3381.70] that it's the governing authorities' responsibility, -[3382.16 --> 3384.04] it's the state's responsibility -[3384.04 --> 3389.88] to ensure that these limits around the other authorities, -[3390.42 --> 3391.56] these earthly authorities, -[3391.56 --> 3393.94] are maintained and protected. -[3393.94 --> 3401.52] Okay, part of the function of the state is to ensure that these other established spheres -[3401.52 --> 3405.62] can function well and without tyranny from the other spheres. -[3405.62 --> 3407.46] Now, -[3407.46 --> 3419.66] I've been around Canadian and American political systems long enough to recognize, -[3420.28 --> 3421.72] and I'm a reformed pastor, -[3421.94 --> 3424.94] so I believe in the depravity of human nature, -[3425.34 --> 3425.48] right, -[3425.50 --> 3428.52] to recognize that there's a danger inherent here -[3428.52 --> 3433.60] because people can and will abuse any authority given to them. -[3434.48 --> 3435.66] And because in many ways, -[3436.22 --> 3441.90] the state sphere is sort of elevated over the top of the other spheres -[3441.90 --> 3445.44] in order to ensure that there is equity within them, -[3445.80 --> 3447.02] that there is a tendency, -[3447.58 --> 3450.18] and we see this work out over and over and over in history, -[3450.48 --> 3454.00] for the state to over-function in its responsibilities. -[3454.00 --> 3457.82] And instead of ensuring that the local areas, -[3457.96 --> 3463.44] that the smallest common denominator can deal with the properly functioning orders, -[3463.94 --> 3471.92] what happens is that citizens upload responsibilities to a higher body -[3471.92 --> 3473.88] that, of course, willingly takes it -[3473.88 --> 3478.62] because we're all going to try to get more influence or more power. -[3480.08 --> 3482.52] And sometimes we see this, right, -[3482.52 --> 3486.66] that higher body seizes authority from those other places. -[3487.88 --> 3492.62] Now, the reality is that even people who are elected to office -[3492.62 --> 3497.58] or even people who are there by the divine right of kings and named monarch -[3497.58 --> 3500.66] or even people who seize authority as dictators, -[3501.46 --> 3506.24] the reality, of course, is that we are all depraved and struggle with sin. -[3506.24 --> 3515.82] And so, responsible citizens will put limits on the scope of the power we give them. -[3516.30 --> 3522.82] We'll put checks and balances into the systems and structures of our ordinances. -[3522.82 --> 3527.86] So, in summary of this first point, -[3527.96 --> 3531.34] responsible citizens understand order, -[3531.66 --> 3535.36] understand that there is a created order to the governing authorities -[3535.36 --> 3541.54] and to the authorities and spheres of life that God has built into creation -[3541.54 --> 3546.08] and that he continues to provide through his providential care. -[3546.08 --> 3551.60] And as well, because we are clear on who we are and our needs, -[3551.76 --> 3556.38] responsible citizens understand the need for checks and balances and limits -[3556.38 --> 3558.74] because, like I said, we understand anthropology. -[3559.92 --> 3561.22] We know what it means to be human. -[3561.22 --> 3570.66] But out of that, it is important for you to hear and to remember, -[3570.96 --> 3576.92] always remember that God has established the authorities that exist. -[3578.62 --> 3581.14] The sin has corrupted them and people have abused them, -[3581.70 --> 3585.56] but God has established them and continues to use them. -[3586.24 --> 3590.04] Which then takes us to our second idea, which comes from verse 2. -[3591.22 --> 3592.36] Verse 2 says, -[3593.10 --> 3598.48] Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, -[3598.70 --> 3602.36] and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. -[3603.78 --> 3607.80] It is pretty clear that because God has established these authorities, -[3608.12 --> 3611.34] rebelling against them is rebelling against what God has instituted. -[3612.02 --> 3615.76] That's what it means when Paul uses the word consequently to introduce that line. -[3617.52 --> 3620.44] Now, interesting to me anyway, interesting to me, I hope it's to you, -[3620.44 --> 3623.46] the word that is translated rebel, -[3625.12 --> 3629.72] is where we get the English word antithesis from. -[3631.36 --> 3633.62] And so, I think part of what it means to rebel, -[3633.68 --> 3634.78] and what is being talked about here, -[3634.90 --> 3638.86] is to act in and at cross-purposes, -[3639.12 --> 3640.44] in antithesis to, -[3640.80 --> 3642.10] the governing authority. -[3642.10 --> 3646.92] Now, for many of us, -[3646.96 --> 3650.22] I get that that seems like a pretty strong statement, -[3650.22 --> 3656.38] and we might start to bristle under what seems to be the absolute nature of that. -[3657.44 --> 3658.88] And I want to be candid with you, -[3659.24 --> 3662.94] because we aren't really helped by looking at other places in the Bible -[3662.94 --> 3665.06] for an easy way out of this. -[3665.06 --> 3669.14] In 1 Peter 2, we read, -[3669.14 --> 3692.88] Paul continues this, -[3692.88 --> 3694.90] pressing it down on us, -[3694.96 --> 3697.54] writing a very similar thing in his letter to Titus. -[3697.74 --> 3698.54] He says, -[3699.24 --> 3700.34] in Titus 3, -[3701.22 --> 3704.12] remind the people to be subject to the rulers -[3704.12 --> 3705.78] and authorities, -[3706.22 --> 3707.04] to be obedient, -[3707.38 --> 3709.30] and to be ready to do whatever is good, -[3709.68 --> 3711.04] to slander no one, -[3711.32 --> 3713.22] to be peaceable and considerate, -[3713.32 --> 3715.82] and always gentle toward everyone. -[3715.82 --> 3719.78] I got to tell you, -[3720.02 --> 3722.56] when I was preparing this week, -[3723.42 --> 3725.02] that little phrase, -[3726.10 --> 3727.52] to slander no one, -[3728.50 --> 3730.32] hit me right between the eyes. -[3732.18 --> 3736.84] Especially as we talk about our governing authorities and political leaders. -[3738.72 --> 3740.70] Now, again, let me be abundantly clear, right? -[3740.74 --> 3745.06] I have no love lost for our current political establishment -[3745.06 --> 3748.82] in Canada and many of the ideologies that undergird it. -[3749.16 --> 3751.46] But, and here's where I'm going to offend at least one of you, -[3751.90 --> 3753.52] that doesn't give me the right -[3753.52 --> 3756.44] to talk about the prime minister the way that I have. -[3759.92 --> 3762.04] Some of you are familiar with the kind of bumper stickers -[3762.04 --> 3763.94] that have become popular in the last few years. -[3765.30 --> 3767.18] The snicker means you know what I'm talking about. -[3767.88 --> 3771.36] Or the giant flags that people fly on their trucks. -[3771.36 --> 3776.38] How does that hold up against 1 Peter 2, -[3776.50 --> 3777.28] against Titus 3, -[3777.54 --> 3778.62] and against Romans 13? -[3783.20 --> 3785.64] I suspect some of us are being hit right between the eyes. -[3785.96 --> 3786.60] And if you're not, -[3787.60 --> 3789.60] you're probably not listening. -[3791.48 --> 3793.14] Because all of us -[3793.14 --> 3795.56] are guilty of this. -[3795.56 --> 3797.64] That's not an overstatement. -[3800.28 --> 3801.86] And also, hear this, right? -[3802.02 --> 3803.98] It's important to hold this against the context -[3803.98 --> 3806.20] of what Peter and Paul are writing to. -[3807.12 --> 3809.36] When Peter and Paul are writing these statements, -[3809.78 --> 3814.16] they are talking about a very non-Christian government. -[3815.10 --> 3816.38] In the Roman Empire, -[3816.82 --> 3819.06] the authorities that are in view here, -[3819.16 --> 3820.96] that are told to be held up, -[3821.12 --> 3822.32] propped up and prayed for, -[3822.42 --> 3825.10] that we are told to pursue the good of, -[3825.10 --> 3825.62] right? -[3825.68 --> 3826.90] They are unfriendly, -[3826.98 --> 3828.34] they are actively hostile, -[3828.82 --> 3829.80] and in some cases, -[3829.92 --> 3830.50] and eventually, -[3830.92 --> 3834.22] they're actively persecuting and killing Christians. -[3835.54 --> 3836.52] In fact, in Peter, -[3836.60 --> 3838.16] we looked at this a few years ago, -[3838.32 --> 3840.80] Peter is writing to a group of Christians -[3840.80 --> 3842.76] who in just a few years' time, -[3842.82 --> 3844.68] in a generation or two after his letter, -[3845.04 --> 3847.88] will experience direct and immediate persecution -[3847.88 --> 3849.72] from the governor in that region, -[3849.80 --> 3850.56] a man named Pliny, -[3850.94 --> 3853.54] on behalf of the emperor Trajan back in Rome. -[3853.54 --> 3857.36] because they wouldn't worship the emperor. -[3858.74 --> 3861.76] And Pliny uses that as a test to find them out and to kill them. -[3864.64 --> 3866.56] And into that context, -[3866.56 --> 3872.36] we are told to honor the emperor. -[3875.02 --> 3876.92] Now, I don't think it's wrong to say -[3876.92 --> 3880.26] that the injustices committed against those Christians -[3880.26 --> 3882.20] in the New Testament and shortly thereafter -[3882.20 --> 3885.10] far outweighs any injustice -[3885.10 --> 3886.64] you might be experiencing -[3886.64 --> 3888.84] from the governing authorities today. -[3888.84 --> 3893.46] Maybe that will change. -[3893.52 --> 3894.26] I pray it doesn't. -[3895.66 --> 3897.10] But let's be humble enough -[3897.10 --> 3900.16] to recognize what's actually going on -[3900.16 --> 3903.38] and what's not actually going on. -[3903.38 --> 3908.08] No. -[3909.76 --> 3911.08] Don't hear what I'm not saying. -[3912.14 --> 3912.46] Right? -[3912.50 --> 3916.16] That doesn't mean you should passively accept those injustices -[3916.16 --> 3917.04] or that doesn't mean -[3917.04 --> 3920.28] you should passively accept disagreement -[3920.28 --> 3921.32] and ignore them. -[3921.32 --> 3923.88] But it does mean -[3923.88 --> 3926.52] that your first posture -[3926.52 --> 3930.52] should be prayerful submission. -[3932.18 --> 3932.28] Right? -[3932.34 --> 3934.56] Our first posture should be -[3934.56 --> 3936.40] humbly lifting up -[3936.40 --> 3938.64] the governing authorities in prayer -[3938.64 --> 3940.80] because they are established by God. -[3941.18 --> 3941.30] Right? -[3941.32 --> 3943.22] Your first posture should be a reflection -[3943.22 --> 3944.96] of 1 Peter 2.13 -[3944.96 --> 3945.56] which says -[3945.56 --> 3946.64] submit yourselves -[3946.64 --> 3948.50] for the Lord's sake -[3948.50 --> 3951.44] to every human authority. -[3954.26 --> 3954.46] Right? -[3954.52 --> 3955.84] What's clear here -[3955.84 --> 3957.94] is that the default position -[3957.94 --> 3958.92] of the Christian -[3958.92 --> 3960.22] to the state -[3960.22 --> 3962.82] is to submit. -[3965.04 --> 3966.28] I'm going to let that sit -[3966.28 --> 3967.94] with you for a minute. -[3967.94 --> 3976.82] That's the default position. -[3980.76 --> 3981.24] Now, -[3981.56 --> 3983.16] I'm anticipating your questions. -[3983.34 --> 3984.68] I'm anticipating your pushback. -[3985.30 --> 3985.56] Right? -[3985.60 --> 3986.42] I know there's a question -[3986.42 --> 3987.58] hanging over your heads. -[3987.58 --> 3988.88] What if -[3988.88 --> 3990.44] the governing authority -[3990.44 --> 3993.20] acts at cross purposes -[3993.20 --> 3994.02] right? -[3994.26 --> 3995.24] Rebels against -[3995.24 --> 3996.20] antithesis -[3996.20 --> 3998.84] the created order of God? -[4000.80 --> 4001.02] Right? -[4001.08 --> 4001.52] What is -[4001.52 --> 4002.04] what -[4002.04 --> 4003.50] what if -[4003.50 --> 4004.92] a governing authority -[4004.92 --> 4006.34] rejects God? -[4006.46 --> 4007.40] Do I have to submit -[4007.40 --> 4007.94] to them -[4007.94 --> 4008.64] then? -[4010.84 --> 4011.04] Now, -[4011.06 --> 4012.54] these are really important questions. -[4013.08 --> 4014.30] And this is part of what it means -[4014.30 --> 4015.40] to be a responsible -[4015.40 --> 4016.48] citizen. -[4018.30 --> 4019.30] And the text -[4019.30 --> 4020.30] gives us -[4020.30 --> 4020.92] hints -[4020.92 --> 4022.70] at how we might -[4022.70 --> 4023.94] understand that. -[4024.02 --> 4024.76] It gives us hints -[4024.76 --> 4026.24] at the limits -[4026.24 --> 4027.68] of authority -[4027.68 --> 4028.38] that we might -[4028.38 --> 4029.28] brush up against. -[4029.78 --> 4030.34] But remember, -[4030.46 --> 4031.46] we've already identified -[4031.46 --> 4032.90] that there are limits -[4032.90 --> 4033.82] to the sphere -[4033.82 --> 4034.98] of authority -[4034.98 --> 4035.90] for governments -[4035.90 --> 4036.54] and for other -[4036.54 --> 4037.92] established authorities -[4037.92 --> 4038.50] in the world. -[4039.82 --> 4040.14] Now, -[4040.18 --> 4040.98] in the first place, -[4041.08 --> 4041.92] in verse 7, -[4042.62 --> 4043.32] Paul writes -[4043.32 --> 4043.70] that we -[4043.70 --> 4044.80] ought to give -[4044.80 --> 4045.58] to everyone -[4045.58 --> 4046.48] what you owe them. -[4047.12 --> 4047.66] And then he says, -[4047.76 --> 4048.48] if you owe taxes, -[4048.62 --> 4049.16] give taxes. -[4049.32 --> 4049.76] If revenue, -[4049.88 --> 4050.26] then revenue. -[4050.40 --> 4050.80] If respect, -[4050.88 --> 4051.22] then respect. -[4051.36 --> 4051.70] If honor, -[4051.78 --> 4052.12] then honor. -[4052.12 --> 4053.30] Now, -[4053.34 --> 4054.24] most Bible scholars -[4054.24 --> 4054.72] agree -[4054.72 --> 4056.12] that Paul -[4056.12 --> 4057.30] is echoing -[4057.30 --> 4057.84] Jesus' -[4058.44 --> 4058.84] statement -[4058.84 --> 4060.38] in Matthew 22 -[4060.38 --> 4061.44] where he says -[4061.44 --> 4062.18] in verse 21, -[4062.64 --> 4063.66] give to Caesar -[4063.66 --> 4064.90] what is Caesar's -[4064.90 --> 4065.86] and to God -[4065.86 --> 4066.76] what is God's. -[4067.92 --> 4068.06] Now, -[4068.10 --> 4068.98] Jesus is using -[4068.98 --> 4069.76] this phrase -[4069.76 --> 4070.46] to challenge -[4070.46 --> 4071.78] a commonly held -[4071.78 --> 4072.30] idea -[4072.30 --> 4073.42] about the state -[4073.42 --> 4074.30] and about the emperor -[4074.30 --> 4075.56] during this time. -[4075.64 --> 4076.06] The idea -[4076.06 --> 4076.74] that the emperor -[4076.74 --> 4077.98] is a deity -[4077.98 --> 4079.06] or representative -[4079.06 --> 4080.14] of the deity -[4080.14 --> 4081.02] or he himself -[4081.02 --> 4081.58] is a god -[4081.58 --> 4082.92] and so closely -[4082.92 --> 4083.52] aligned -[4083.52 --> 4084.22] with the god -[4084.22 --> 4085.26] of a particular region -[4085.26 --> 4087.02] or nation state -[4087.02 --> 4088.08] that they have -[4088.08 --> 4089.42] divine authority -[4089.42 --> 4091.24] and that the state -[4091.24 --> 4093.08] has divine authority -[4093.08 --> 4094.14] through them. -[4094.66 --> 4095.50] Jesus is challenging -[4095.50 --> 4095.90] that. -[4096.78 --> 4097.46] That's what -[4097.46 --> 4098.82] eventually becomes -[4098.82 --> 4099.96] why the emperors -[4099.96 --> 4100.50] are asking -[4100.50 --> 4101.32] for worship. -[4102.14 --> 4102.86] And Jesus says, -[4102.98 --> 4103.22] yes, -[4103.62 --> 4104.44] pay your taxes -[4104.44 --> 4105.10] to Caesar -[4105.10 --> 4106.86] but do not pay -[4106.86 --> 4107.42] worship -[4107.42 --> 4108.36] to Caesar. -[4108.36 --> 4108.58] Right? -[4109.82 --> 4110.48] Give to Caesar -[4110.48 --> 4111.58] what is Caesar's -[4111.58 --> 4112.18] taxes -[4112.18 --> 4114.28] but do not -[4114.28 --> 4114.98] give to him -[4114.98 --> 4116.24] what is God's -[4116.24 --> 4117.36] worship. -[4118.72 --> 4119.64] And so already, -[4119.88 --> 4120.06] right, -[4120.10 --> 4121.12] there's one limit -[4121.12 --> 4122.64] to this obedience -[4122.64 --> 4123.60] and submission -[4123.60 --> 4124.30] relationship, -[4124.42 --> 4124.52] right? -[4124.54 --> 4125.52] We cannot worship -[4125.52 --> 4126.86] or be made to worship -[4126.86 --> 4128.60] that which isn't God. -[4130.30 --> 4130.84] Now, -[4130.86 --> 4131.38] I suggest to you -[4131.38 --> 4132.58] that the second limit -[4132.58 --> 4133.20] that comes out -[4133.20 --> 4133.82] of this text -[4133.82 --> 4135.52] from this idea -[4135.52 --> 4139.16] and you can read -[4139.16 --> 4140.42] it in verse 4, -[4140.78 --> 4141.36] the idea that -[4141.36 --> 4142.24] the ruler is -[4142.24 --> 4143.54] God's servant -[4143.54 --> 4144.68] for your good. -[4146.30 --> 4146.48] Now, -[4146.50 --> 4147.62] as God's servant, -[4148.42 --> 4149.82] the civil leader, -[4150.14 --> 4151.56] the governing authority -[4151.56 --> 4152.74] has responsibility -[4152.74 --> 4154.24] to operate -[4154.24 --> 4156.14] under God's moral order. -[4157.20 --> 4157.30] Right? -[4157.36 --> 4158.04] A servant -[4158.04 --> 4159.14] is not free -[4159.14 --> 4159.64] to do -[4159.64 --> 4160.68] whatever he or she -[4160.68 --> 4161.28] wishes -[4161.28 --> 4162.40] even if they are -[4162.40 --> 4162.80] a king -[4162.80 --> 4163.64] or a prime minister -[4163.64 --> 4164.30] or an emperor. -[4168.52 --> 4169.96] In the movie -[4169.96 --> 4171.02] The Lion King, -[4171.72 --> 4172.48] when Simba -[4172.48 --> 4173.30] is really young, -[4174.12 --> 4174.82] King Mufasa, -[4174.98 --> 4175.40] his dad, -[4175.50 --> 4176.32] walks him around -[4176.32 --> 4176.88] and they go -[4176.88 --> 4178.04] and stand on Pride Rock -[4178.04 --> 4178.38] and they say, -[4178.42 --> 4179.44] all this will be yours. -[4180.42 --> 4181.58] And at one point, -[4181.74 --> 4183.00] Simba says to Mufasa, -[4183.14 --> 4183.48] he says, -[4183.74 --> 4185.00] I thought being king -[4185.00 --> 4185.80] means you could do -[4185.80 --> 4186.66] whatever you want. -[4187.88 --> 4188.88] And his father, -[4189.32 --> 4190.02] King Mufasa, -[4190.18 --> 4190.52] says, -[4190.70 --> 4191.52] there's more -[4191.52 --> 4192.58] to being king -[4192.58 --> 4193.52] than that. -[4193.64 --> 4196.44] The underlying principle -[4196.44 --> 4197.28] at work here -[4197.28 --> 4198.80] is that if rulers -[4198.80 --> 4199.80] are to support -[4199.80 --> 4200.72] the doing of right -[4200.72 --> 4201.64] and to encourage -[4201.64 --> 4202.34] doing right, -[4202.52 --> 4203.84] they must not require -[4203.84 --> 4204.72] the doing of wrong. -[4205.56 --> 4205.72] Right? -[4205.76 --> 4206.80] That which is disobedient -[4206.80 --> 4207.70] to God's moral order. -[4209.74 --> 4210.00] Now, -[4210.64 --> 4212.20] wrestle with me here, -[4212.24 --> 4212.38] right? -[4212.42 --> 4213.70] Because what's implicit -[4213.70 --> 4215.62] in these verses -[4215.62 --> 4216.86] in Romans 13 -[4216.86 --> 4218.96] is made more explicit -[4218.96 --> 4222.04] and shown by way -[4222.04 --> 4222.68] of example -[4222.68 --> 4224.06] in the book of Acts. -[4225.26 --> 4225.46] Now, -[4225.50 --> 4226.16] in Acts 4, -[4226.26 --> 4227.02] verse 19, -[4227.64 --> 4228.60] Peter and John -[4228.60 --> 4229.62] are standing in front -[4229.62 --> 4230.58] of the Sanhedrin, -[4231.28 --> 4232.80] which is the ruling class -[4232.80 --> 4233.88] in Judea. -[4234.28 --> 4234.94] They're standing -[4234.94 --> 4235.58] in front of them -[4235.58 --> 4236.24] because they have been -[4236.24 --> 4236.88] called there -[4236.88 --> 4238.72] because of the disruptions -[4238.72 --> 4239.38] their preaching -[4239.38 --> 4240.10] of Jesus -[4240.10 --> 4241.42] and his death -[4241.42 --> 4242.08] and resurrection -[4242.08 --> 4242.82] has caused. -[4242.82 --> 4244.92] And Peter says to them, -[4245.34 --> 4246.12] which is right -[4246.12 --> 4247.08] in God's eyes, -[4247.14 --> 4248.00] to listen to you -[4248.00 --> 4248.94] or to him? -[4250.92 --> 4251.50] And then again, -[4251.60 --> 4252.44] in Acts 5, -[4252.82 --> 4253.90] Peter is pulled back -[4253.90 --> 4255.40] in front of the Sanhedrin -[4255.40 --> 4257.08] after the apostles -[4257.08 --> 4258.52] were being persecuted -[4258.52 --> 4259.06] by them -[4259.06 --> 4260.30] for continuing to preach -[4260.30 --> 4261.24] even when they said, -[4261.58 --> 4262.38] you cannot do that. -[4262.56 --> 4263.36] And Peter says, -[4263.44 --> 4264.08] very explicitly, -[4264.50 --> 4266.00] we must obey God -[4266.00 --> 4267.56] rather than human beings. -[4269.40 --> 4269.72] And so, -[4269.84 --> 4270.76] responsible citizen, -[4270.76 --> 4271.78] if the choice -[4271.78 --> 4273.02] is between obeying God -[4273.02 --> 4274.18] or the governing authorities, -[4274.32 --> 4276.36] the choice ought to be obvious. -[4276.68 --> 4278.02] We must obey God, right? -[4278.08 --> 4279.46] There may be consequences -[4279.46 --> 4280.46] to that reality. -[4281.42 --> 4281.86] In fact, -[4281.98 --> 4283.36] there will be consequences -[4283.36 --> 4284.36] to that reality. -[4288.46 --> 4290.86] But we must obey God. -[4298.42 --> 4299.62] But let me say, -[4299.62 --> 4301.20] very carefully, -[4301.64 --> 4302.86] and I know that you can -[4302.86 --> 4303.56] provide arguments -[4303.56 --> 4304.32] one way or the other, -[4305.04 --> 4307.98] that most of us -[4307.98 --> 4310.94] living in 21st century Canada, -[4311.94 --> 4312.36] Langley, -[4312.72 --> 4313.66] or the region around, -[4314.52 --> 4315.84] have not been faced -[4315.84 --> 4316.68] with the choice -[4316.68 --> 4317.90] to obey God -[4317.90 --> 4319.62] or to obey the governing authorities -[4319.62 --> 4321.72] in this same way. -[4321.72 --> 4327.36] And so, -[4328.04 --> 4331.48] check your humility -[4331.48 --> 4333.26] and wonder, -[4333.82 --> 4336.50] do I need to -[4336.50 --> 4337.76] first submit -[4337.76 --> 4338.62] and pray -[4338.62 --> 4341.26] before I disobey -[4341.26 --> 4342.70] and complain? -[4345.78 --> 4347.00] Let me pull this all together -[4347.00 --> 4347.72] in a quick little summary. -[4348.34 --> 4349.16] There are, then, -[4349.46 --> 4350.54] three ways -[4350.54 --> 4351.46] in which Christians -[4351.46 --> 4353.22] share and live -[4353.22 --> 4354.62] this responsibility -[4354.62 --> 4357.14] to obey -[4357.14 --> 4359.26] governing authorities. -[4359.48 --> 4359.88] And first, -[4360.10 --> 4361.32] that is the first. -[4361.40 --> 4362.46] Christians obey. -[4362.62 --> 4364.06] We start with submission. -[4364.54 --> 4365.94] We pay our taxes. -[4366.18 --> 4367.86] We act as civil servants. -[4368.02 --> 4368.54] We contribute -[4368.54 --> 4369.34] to the well-being -[4369.34 --> 4370.00] of society. -[4370.38 --> 4371.50] We pray for the king -[4371.50 --> 4372.54] or the prime minister -[4372.54 --> 4373.54] or the president -[4373.54 --> 4374.56] or the emperor -[4374.56 --> 4375.50] or the mayor -[4375.50 --> 4377.10] or the town council member. -[4379.30 --> 4379.90] Second, -[4380.88 --> 4382.30] Christians submit -[4382.30 --> 4384.58] according to conscience. -[4385.82 --> 4386.94] Verse 5 says, -[4387.04 --> 4387.52] it's necessary -[4387.52 --> 4388.58] to admit to the authorities -[4388.58 --> 4389.50] not only because -[4389.50 --> 4390.40] of possible punishment -[4390.40 --> 4391.12] but also -[4391.12 --> 4393.26] as a matter of conscience. -[4394.76 --> 4396.26] Part of what this means, -[4396.36 --> 4396.54] right, -[4396.58 --> 4397.56] is that we have to -[4397.56 --> 4399.82] evaluate the state -[4399.82 --> 4400.66] in our relationship -[4400.66 --> 4402.10] to these governing authorities. -[4402.10 --> 4402.94] Right? -[4403.10 --> 4404.46] Others may obey -[4404.46 --> 4406.00] only out of fear -[4406.00 --> 4406.80] or out of fear -[4406.80 --> 4407.44] of punishment -[4407.44 --> 4408.96] but Christians obey -[4408.96 --> 4411.02] according to our conscience. -[4411.20 --> 4411.86] Christians obey -[4411.86 --> 4413.34] because we realize -[4413.34 --> 4414.48] that God has established -[4414.48 --> 4416.22] these authorities. -[4417.38 --> 4418.18] And, -[4418.42 --> 4419.64] if Christians -[4419.64 --> 4421.10] are to disobey, -[4421.52 --> 4422.30] we do so -[4422.30 --> 4424.08] according to our consciences -[4424.08 --> 4426.12] discerning God's calling. -[4426.12 --> 4427.96] And, -[4427.96 --> 4428.96] I need you to hear -[4428.96 --> 4431.12] just how radical this is. -[4431.86 --> 4432.08] Because, -[4432.20 --> 4432.82] on the one hand, -[4433.02 --> 4434.38] we will obey the state -[4434.38 --> 4435.24] even when there are -[4435.24 --> 4436.50] no civil consequences -[4436.50 --> 4437.86] because our motivation -[4437.86 --> 4438.86] for obeying the state -[4438.86 --> 4440.50] is obedience to God -[4440.50 --> 4442.70] who has established the state. -[4443.58 --> 4444.00] And, -[4444.08 --> 4444.68] on the other hand, -[4445.34 --> 4446.54] we could never submit -[4446.54 --> 4447.22] uncritically -[4447.22 --> 4447.90] to what the state -[4447.90 --> 4448.78] tells us -[4448.78 --> 4449.76] because if it requires us -[4449.76 --> 4450.80] to violate our conscience, -[4451.08 --> 4453.12] we must disobey. -[4453.12 --> 4456.12] And, -[4456.32 --> 4456.34] then, -[4457.22 --> 4458.72] our third point -[4458.72 --> 4459.68] moving quickly -[4459.68 --> 4460.50] through here. -[4461.40 --> 4462.58] Responsible citizens -[4462.58 --> 4463.30] do good -[4463.30 --> 4465.76] for goodness sake. -[4466.42 --> 4468.26] This is verse 3. -[4469.40 --> 4470.56] Rulers hold no terror -[4470.56 --> 4471.62] for those who do right -[4471.62 --> 4472.76] but for those who do wrong. -[4473.18 --> 4474.02] Do you want to be free -[4474.02 --> 4474.58] from fear -[4474.58 --> 4475.78] from the one in authority? -[4475.94 --> 4477.08] Then do what is right -[4477.08 --> 4479.42] and you will be commended. -[4479.42 --> 4485.06] Do what is right -[4485.06 --> 4486.60] and you will be commended. -[4486.96 --> 4487.74] Do good -[4487.74 --> 4488.44] as a matter -[4488.44 --> 4489.56] of conscience. -[4491.14 --> 4492.28] Part of -[4492.28 --> 4494.42] Peter's concern -[4494.42 --> 4495.64] when he writes his letter, -[4495.72 --> 4496.66] which we looked at briefly, -[4496.98 --> 4498.96] and that parallels Paul here, -[4499.12 --> 4500.36] part of Paul's concern -[4500.36 --> 4501.16] when he writes -[4501.16 --> 4502.58] and here in Romans -[4502.58 --> 4503.66] but also when Paul writes -[4503.66 --> 4504.30] to Timothy -[4504.30 --> 4506.86] is for the witness -[4506.86 --> 4508.46] and the well-being -[4508.46 --> 4509.72] of the church. -[4510.26 --> 4510.90] That the witness -[4510.90 --> 4511.64] and the well-being -[4511.64 --> 4512.08] of the church -[4512.08 --> 4512.88] would be encouraged. -[4513.42 --> 4514.28] The idea here -[4514.28 --> 4516.28] is that how we live -[4516.28 --> 4517.20] as Christians -[4517.20 --> 4518.32] influences -[4518.32 --> 4519.78] what others think -[4519.78 --> 4520.36] about God -[4520.36 --> 4520.86] and what others -[4520.86 --> 4521.70] think about Christianity. -[4522.38 --> 4523.52] This is also true -[4523.52 --> 4524.62] in our relationship -[4524.62 --> 4525.26] to the state. -[4527.24 --> 4528.44] Paul writes to Timothy -[4528.44 --> 4529.08] and he says, -[4529.08 --> 4530.68] I urge then, -[4530.90 --> 4531.58] first of all, -[4531.68 --> 4532.40] that petitions, -[4532.76 --> 4533.12] prayers, -[4533.54 --> 4534.26] intercessions, -[4534.38 --> 4535.24] and thanksgivings -[4535.24 --> 4536.72] be made for all people, -[4536.92 --> 4537.74] for kings -[4537.74 --> 4539.28] and all those in authority -[4539.28 --> 4540.60] that we may live -[4540.60 --> 4541.18] peaceful, -[4541.42 --> 4542.18] quiet lives -[4542.18 --> 4543.00] in all goodness -[4543.00 --> 4544.08] and holiness. -[4544.34 --> 4545.06] And so I'll ask you -[4545.06 --> 4545.68] one more time. -[4547.88 --> 4548.76] Have you prayed -[4548.76 --> 4550.06] for our political leaders -[4550.06 --> 4551.74] as much as you have -[4551.74 --> 4552.56] complained about them? -[4555.20 --> 4556.26] Simple litmus test. -[4556.26 --> 4558.18] I know I fail it. -[4560.96 --> 4561.44] In fact, -[4561.50 --> 4562.20] I know I failed it -[4562.20 --> 4562.86] just this morning -[4562.86 --> 4564.44] before the service began -[4564.44 --> 4565.76] knowing that I was -[4565.76 --> 4566.40] going to say this -[4566.40 --> 4566.96] in my sermon. -[4568.08 --> 4568.96] That's how easily -[4568.96 --> 4569.54] it happens. -[4574.66 --> 4575.92] As Paul calls -[4575.92 --> 4578.30] for our praying -[4578.30 --> 4578.88] for leaders -[4578.88 --> 4579.74] and those in authority -[4579.74 --> 4580.54] so that we may live -[4580.54 --> 4582.00] peaceful and quiet lives -[4582.00 --> 4582.44] in goodness -[4582.44 --> 4583.06] and holiness, -[4583.34 --> 4584.22] the idea there -[4584.22 --> 4585.54] is that an atmosphere -[4585.54 --> 4586.22] of quiet -[4586.22 --> 4587.72] and peaceful living. -[4588.02 --> 4589.16] In that kind of atmosphere, -[4589.32 --> 4590.48] Christians are free -[4590.48 --> 4592.30] to pursue activities -[4592.30 --> 4593.32] consistent with -[4593.32 --> 4594.54] God's will for his people. -[4594.86 --> 4595.58] And this comes back -[4595.58 --> 4596.36] to those other spheres -[4596.36 --> 4597.02] for the raising -[4597.02 --> 4598.42] of families in the Lord, -[4598.50 --> 4599.06] for the serving -[4599.06 --> 4600.24] of community needs -[4600.24 --> 4601.28] and loving neighbors, -[4601.54 --> 4602.92] for providing places -[4602.92 --> 4603.98] of education -[4603.98 --> 4605.18] and institutions -[4605.18 --> 4606.18] like schools -[4606.18 --> 4607.14] and universities, -[4607.54 --> 4607.70] right? -[4607.82 --> 4609.24] And for providing -[4609.24 --> 4609.76] opportunity -[4609.76 --> 4611.08] to love our neighbor -[4611.08 --> 4612.24] meeting their needs -[4612.24 --> 4613.72] and for providing -[4613.72 --> 4614.36] opportunities -[4614.36 --> 4615.74] to take the gospel -[4615.74 --> 4616.80] to the world. -[4617.62 --> 4618.72] All of these things -[4618.72 --> 4619.70] are part of the greater -[4619.70 --> 4622.18] concern for the witness -[4622.18 --> 4623.00] and the well-being -[4623.00 --> 4623.84] of the church. -[4625.58 --> 4626.26] So in short, -[4626.72 --> 4628.26] doing good for goodness sake, -[4628.62 --> 4630.54] responsible citizens -[4630.54 --> 4631.72] will do good -[4631.72 --> 4632.72] because it's good -[4632.72 --> 4633.34] for the message -[4633.34 --> 4633.98] of the church. -[4634.18 --> 4635.54] It's good for the well-being -[4635.54 --> 4636.58] of the community -[4636.58 --> 4637.64] of faith. -[4637.64 --> 4641.22] Now I know -[4641.22 --> 4644.34] quoting Paul -[4644.34 --> 4644.88] is already -[4644.88 --> 4646.12] a divisive figure, -[4646.28 --> 4646.88] but I'm going to quote -[4646.88 --> 4648.20] Preston Manning next, -[4649.12 --> 4649.56] which is also -[4649.56 --> 4650.90] another divisive figure. -[4652.28 --> 4653.36] He's a Canadian politician. -[4654.22 --> 4655.06] He was more active -[4655.06 --> 4656.44] in the 90s -[4656.44 --> 4657.74] and the early 2000s, -[4657.74 --> 4658.76] but he was very, -[4658.88 --> 4660.00] very vocal -[4660.00 --> 4661.16] about the impact -[4661.16 --> 4661.88] of his faith -[4661.88 --> 4663.04] on his politics. -[4663.32 --> 4664.42] And he said, -[4664.42 --> 4666.52] for conservatives, -[4667.34 --> 4668.48] being right -[4668.48 --> 4669.98] must mean more -[4669.98 --> 4671.10] than just being -[4671.10 --> 4671.92] right of center. -[4673.34 --> 4674.68] It must also mean -[4674.68 --> 4675.98] doing the right thing. -[4678.48 --> 4679.62] Do good -[4679.62 --> 4681.26] for goodness sake. -[4682.68 --> 4683.14] Lastly, -[4683.58 --> 4684.48] the fourth thing -[4684.48 --> 4685.94] that responsible citizens do -[4685.94 --> 4688.24] is to give equitably -[4688.24 --> 4689.52] as is due, -[4689.72 --> 4690.50] or to put it another way, -[4690.56 --> 4691.70] to serve diligently -[4691.70 --> 4693.00] as is required, -[4693.00 --> 4693.86] or to put it another way, -[4694.14 --> 4695.24] to seek justice -[4695.24 --> 4697.44] as you find injustices, -[4697.66 --> 4699.26] to seek the well-being -[4699.26 --> 4700.22] of the, -[4700.50 --> 4701.54] Jeremiah 29, -[4701.80 --> 4702.54] 7 says, -[4702.64 --> 4703.62] the city that God -[4703.62 --> 4704.52] has placed you in. -[4705.22 --> 4706.18] And so you pray for it -[4706.18 --> 4706.96] and you invest in it -[4706.96 --> 4707.52] and you live -[4707.52 --> 4708.78] and you are present to you. -[4709.48 --> 4710.06] Verse 7, -[4710.34 --> 4711.64] give to everyone -[4711.64 --> 4712.72] what you owe them. -[4714.50 --> 4715.48] So if you owe taxes, -[4715.64 --> 4716.24] pay your taxes. -[4716.42 --> 4717.26] If you owe revenue, -[4717.70 --> 4718.88] then give revenue. -[4719.20 --> 4720.08] If it is respect, -[4720.38 --> 4721.02] then give respect. -[4721.02 --> 4721.96] If it is honor, -[4722.26 --> 4723.08] then give honor. -[4724.12 --> 4725.54] But you begin to see -[4725.54 --> 4727.68] what is stacking here. -[4728.70 --> 4728.94] Right? -[4728.98 --> 4730.68] That responsible citizenship -[4730.68 --> 4731.78] in the world -[4731.78 --> 4732.86] recognizes -[4732.86 --> 4734.26] that there's a created order. -[4735.56 --> 4736.00] Right? -[4736.06 --> 4737.76] And then that out of that order -[4737.76 --> 4739.98] we are called to do good -[4739.98 --> 4741.66] and that in doing good -[4741.66 --> 4742.82] we're called to do good -[4742.82 --> 4743.84] for goodness sake. -[4743.94 --> 4744.40] And so yes, -[4744.48 --> 4745.60] there's matters of conscience -[4745.60 --> 4746.88] to be aware of. -[4746.88 --> 4749.46] And then the kind of good -[4749.46 --> 4750.40] that we do -[4750.40 --> 4753.40] sees a justice, -[4753.64 --> 4755.70] a fairness emerge -[4755.70 --> 4757.76] in the societies we live in. -[4759.70 --> 4762.18] This is part of what it means -[4762.18 --> 4765.06] to be a responsible citizen. -[4765.82 --> 4767.62] And they all come together -[4767.62 --> 4772.88] so that we can honor God -[4772.88 --> 4775.30] even as we honor -[4775.30 --> 4776.66] the Prime Minister. -[4778.08 --> 4779.14] And I'm going to say amen. -[4780.34 --> 4781.18] And I say it -[4781.18 --> 4783.06] maybe on behalf of you -[4783.06 --> 4784.82] who can't yet say it. -[4785.62 --> 4785.90] Amen. -[4786.60 --> 4787.06] Let's pray. -[4790.94 --> 4791.74] Lord our God, -[4792.12 --> 4793.88] we come to you -[4793.88 --> 4795.40] mindful that -[4795.40 --> 4797.16] perhaps our consciences -[4797.16 --> 4798.22] have been pricked -[4798.22 --> 4798.86] this morning. -[4798.86 --> 4799.68] mindful that -[4799.68 --> 4801.20] your word -[4801.20 --> 4803.56] pierces to the depths -[4803.56 --> 4804.78] of our heart. -[4804.94 --> 4806.86] And so we pray together -[4806.86 --> 4808.18] take the truth -[4808.18 --> 4809.18] of your word -[4809.18 --> 4810.32] and plant it deep -[4810.32 --> 4811.32] within us. -[4812.36 --> 4813.06] Take the truths -[4813.06 --> 4814.10] of our faith -[4814.10 --> 4814.94] and allow us -[4814.94 --> 4816.84] to live them well. -[4817.68 --> 4818.62] Help us to -[4818.62 --> 4820.06] walk by faith -[4820.06 --> 4821.10] and not by sight -[4821.10 --> 4822.24] in this world -[4822.24 --> 4824.12] as responsible citizens. -[4824.12 --> 4827.84] and in so doing -[4827.84 --> 4828.78] and being, -[4829.00 --> 4829.40] Lord God, -[4829.50 --> 4831.52] may you be glorified. -[4832.06 --> 4833.08] In so doing -[4833.08 --> 4833.82] and being, -[4833.98 --> 4836.16] may you be magnified -[4836.16 --> 4836.96] and praised. -[4837.10 --> 4838.60] May you be worshipped -[4838.60 --> 4839.80] and may we -[4839.80 --> 4841.10] work together -[4841.10 --> 4841.88] to reveal -[4841.88 --> 4843.06] your kingdom come -[4843.06 --> 4845.16] and your kingdom coming. -[4846.54 --> 4847.84] This we ask, -[4848.02 --> 4848.42] Lord God. -[4849.78 --> 4850.88] And so by your grace, -[4851.02 --> 4852.20] fill us with gentleness -[4852.20 --> 4853.60] and respect. -[4854.20 --> 4855.00] And by your grace, -[4855.10 --> 4855.76] send us out now -[4855.76 --> 4857.96] to serve those around us. -[4858.32 --> 4859.42] In your name we pray. -[4859.94 --> 4860.28] Amen. -[4860.28 --> 4860.40] Amen. -[4882.20 --> 4886.00] Amen. -[4886.16 --> 4887.22] Amen. -[4887.22 --> 4888.02] Amen. -[4888.02 --> 4888.10] Amen. -[4888.10 --> 4890.20] In your name we pray bajeeー -[4890.20 --> 4890.76] and Miriahат outfit Teilbé. -[4890.76 --> 4891.38] Amen. -[4891.54 --> 4891.92] Amen. -[4892.32 --> 4892.74] Amen. -[4892.74 --> 4892.82] Amen. -[4892.82 --> 4892.94] Amen. -[4892.94 --> 4893.18] Amen. -[4893.18 --> 4893.68] Amen. -[4893.92 --> 4895.16] So Lord, -[4895.26 --> 4896.98] give gain injuries. -[4896.98 --> 4897.68] Amen. -[4897.68 --> 4898.50] Amen. -[4898.50 --> 4899.66] So Lord, -[4899.66 --> 4900.92] In your flame let me -[4900.92 --> 4901.94] know in this land -[4901.94 --> 4902.94] Hey, -[4902.94 --> 4903.80] God, -[4903.80 --> 4904.30] God, -[4904.30 --> 4905.12] God, -[4905.32 --> 4905.90] よeless, -[4905.90 --> 4906.38] ements, -[4906.38 --> 4907.08] Him. -[4907.08 --> 4908.38] Amen. -[4908.46 --> 4909.34] Amen. -[4909.34 --> 4909.86] Amen. -[4909.86 --> 4910.92] Amen. -[4910.92 --> 4911.52] Amen. -[4911.52 --> 4913.52] on the earth -[4913.52 --> 4917.54] The power of His -[4917.54 --> 4919.64] promise in their -[4919.64 --> 4921.60] hearts -[4921.60 --> 4923.76] A holy -[4923.76 --> 4925.68] city built -[4925.68 --> 4927.86] by God's own -[4927.86 --> 4929.16] hand -[4929.16 --> 4931.30] Of His word -[4931.30 --> 4932.90] peace and justice -[4932.90 --> 4937.42] He will stand -[4937.42 --> 4939.22] and still live -[4939.22 --> 4941.94] the mountains -[4941.94 --> 4945.02] He will fix our -[4945.02 --> 4946.34] rise on Him -[4946.34 --> 4948.00] our souls -[4948.00 --> 4949.84] He will -[4949.84 --> 4951.78] make this -[4951.78 --> 4952.66] finish -[4952.66 --> 4954.22] and the earth -[4954.22 --> 4956.64] is done -[4956.64 --> 4958.58] He will fight -[4958.58 --> 4960.06] in the night -[4960.06 --> 4960.72] of His -[4960.72 --> 4961.84] Son -[4961.84 --> 4966.46] He will -[4966.46 --> 4968.70] make the -[4968.70 --> 4969.54] prophets -[4969.54 --> 4970.48] not -[4970.48 --> 4971.42] made -[4971.42 --> 4974.62] who long -[4974.62 --> 4975.32] for -[4975.32 --> 4975.54] the -[4975.54 --> 4976.38] side of -[4976.38 --> 4977.66] good and -[4977.66 --> 4978.94] fear -[4978.94 --> 4980.66] and the -[4980.66 --> 4982.18] power to -[4982.18 --> 4983.08] break the -[4983.08 --> 4983.50] chains -[4983.50 --> 4984.42] of sin -[4984.42 --> 4985.70] and -[4985.70 --> 4986.42] death -[4986.42 --> 4988.50] in the -[4988.50 --> 4989.50] triumph -[4989.50 --> 4989.90] and -[4989.90 --> 4990.52] come -[4990.52 --> 4991.42] free -[4991.42 --> 4995.88] my -[4995.88 --> 4996.88] side -[4996.88 --> 4998.40] him -[4998.40 --> 4999.06] two -[4999.06 --> 4999.98] sa überzeug Ted -[5001.12 --> 5002.04] and the -[5002.04 --> 5002.76] power of -[5002.76 --> 5004.10] spirit -[5004.10 --> 5006.04] dro 하나 -[5006.04 --> 5007.38] part of -[5007.38 --> 5007.54] mother -[5007.54 --> 5007.88] Christ -[5007.88 --> 5008.80] Eli -[5008.80 --> 5014.00] God who sent him each of you -[5014.00 --> 5018.80] In every order of the earth -[5018.80 --> 5025.80] He will stand us to the ground from earth -[5026.52 --> 5031.80] He will raise our hearts on him our souls -[5032.32 --> 5037.80] And on the till our race is finished and forever -[5037.80 --> 5040.80] The earth is done -[5040.80 --> 5045.80] Fill up my kingdom and love my God -[5050.80 --> 5055.80] Our faith the mountains shall be built -[5056.80 --> 5062.80] And the power of the gospel shall be built -[5062.80 --> 5069.80] For in only Christ all things are lost and over -[5070.80 --> 5073.80] For all of us are the kingdom of God -[5073.80 --> 5075.80] And the power of the gospel shall be built -[5075.80 --> 5081.80] He will stand us to the ground from earth -[5081.80 --> 5087.80] He will raise our hearts on him our souls -[5087.80 --> 5092.80] And on the till our race is finished and forever -[5092.80 --> 5095.80] And on the till our life is found -[5095.80 --> 5096.80] And on the till our lives is found -[5096.80 --> 5098.80] And on the till our lives is found -[5098.80 --> 5100.80] God my Son. -[5102.16 --> 5107.80] We will stand as children of the mountains. -[5108.80 --> 5114.08] We will raise our hearts on human souls. -[5114.24 --> 5118.80] We want to do a race in Israel. -[5118.80 --> 5122.80] We will be proud of you. -[5122.80 --> 5127.80] You are my King and God my Son. -[5128.80 --> 5135.80] We will be proud of you. -[5135.80 --> 5152.14] As we go out together this morning, we will go with God's blessing over us and his spirit in us to embolden us and empower us as responsible citizens. -[5152.14 --> 5160.14] We go with a blessing that really speaks to that middle way of God's providential hand as he goes with us. -[5160.14 --> 5163.14] Before you go, go with two quick invitations. -[5163.14 --> 5168.38] One, following our worship in the foyer, there will be some coffee and refreshments. -[5168.64 --> 5169.74] I invite you to stick around. -[5170.46 --> 5171.30] Hang out for that. -[5171.72 --> 5172.68] Connect with each other. -[5172.84 --> 5173.66] Encourage each other. -[5174.08 --> 5175.72] Ask how life is going. -[5175.72 --> 5185.40] And then, second invitation, if you would like to pray with someone, they will be up here following the service with a yellow name tag on. -[5185.48 --> 5187.10] They'd love to meet you. -[5187.98 --> 5193.02] And can we just say that that prayer is for more than if you have needs or circumstances. -[5193.16 --> 5200.80] If you'd like prayers of thanksgiving, if you have something you're celebrating, these people up here would love to meet you in prayer for that. -[5200.80 --> 5205.14] As you go, receive the blessing of our good God. -[5206.94 --> 5209.52] God, go before you to lead you. -[5210.14 --> 5211.96] God, go behind you to protect you. -[5212.28 --> 5214.30] God, go beneath you to support you. -[5214.60 --> 5217.24] And God, go beside you to befriend you. -[5218.54 --> 5220.48] And so, do not be afraid. -[5221.64 --> 5223.54] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5223.54 --> 5231.30] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord as responsible citizens. -[5232.10 --> 5232.76] Amen. -[5253.54 --> 5258.42] God, go beside you. -[5258.48 --> 5259.14] Amen. -[5259.22 --> 5259.42] Come on, sing baby. -[5261.26 --> 5262.22] Amen. -[5263.10 --> 5264.48] Amen. -[5264.54 --> 5264.96] Amen. -[5269.32 --> 5270.18] For majesty is a blessing. -[5270.18 --> 5272.18] Oh -[5300.18 --> 5302.18] Oh -[5330.18 --> 5332.18] Oh -[5360.18 --> 5362.18] Oh -[5390.18 --> 5392.18] Oh -[5392.18 --> 5394.18] We -[5394.18 --> 5396.18] Our -[5396.18 --> 5398.18] God is -[5398.18 --> 5400.18] Mighty -[5400.18 --> 5404.18] Lift up your name -[5404.18 --> 5406.18] For you are holy -[5408.18 --> 5410.18] Sing it again -[5410.18 --> 5412.18] All honor -[5412.18 --> 5414.18] And glory -[5414.18 --> 5416.18] In -[5416.18 --> 5418.18] Adoration -[5418.18 --> 5420.18] We bow -[5420.18 --> 5422.18] Before your throne -[5422.18 --> 5424.18] In -[5424.18 --> 5426.18] With -[5426.18 --> 5428.18] For your life -[5432.18 --> 5433.86] And where -[5433.86 --> 5434.00] tekrar -[5434.18 --> 5436.18] și -[5436.18 --> 5437.18] Amen. -[5466.18 --> 5467.18] Amen. -[5496.18 --> 5497.18] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, November 16, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, November 16, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0cac66bcde27bdd874ce657dc16a4b59f0b7fb3e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, November 16, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,80 +0,0 @@ -• Praise and worship songs -• Jesus' worthiness and beauty -• Redemption and forgiveness -• God's refining process to make diamonds out of dust -• Joy in the Lord as strength during pressure and challenges -• Love that carries through difficulties and lifts others up -• Hallelujah repeated multiple times -• Music of praise and worship -• The love and peace of God in times of trouble -• A message of trust and following God's promise -• Church announcements, including events and a Christmas hamper campaign -• Upcoming sign-ups for volunteer opportunities -• Through the Bible group meeting on Wednesday to discuss Leviticus -• Sign-up for women's Christmas event in foyer -• Worship service announcements and invocation -• Prayer of confession, prayer for freedom from past mistakes, and request for revival and cleansing -• Request for spiritual revival and restoration -• Scripture references (John 3:16) -• Praise and worship songs and prayers -• Reflection on God's love and sacrifice -• Sermon or discussion about Bible verses -• Introducing a church offering for World Renew and refugee sponsorship -• Explanation of various ways to give donations, including online methods -• Discussion of refugees and World Renew's refugee sponsorship and resettlement program -• Bible reading and singing about the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ -• Humorous Q&A session between a speaker and children, discussing confusing everyday problems such as lost keys, stuck zippers, and missing socks in laundry. -• Discussion about a question from children's worship time -• Explanation that life can be confusing and uncertain -• Reference to the book of Ecclesiastes and future discussion in children's worship -• Invitation to stand with the congregation for a blessing -• Church announcements, including AGM and budget giving concerns -• Church family prayer led by Dave -• Various church ministries (nursery, children's worship time, etc.) are mentioned and prayed for -• Global conflicts (Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, Myanmar) are prayed for, with a focus on peace and an end to violence -• A specific memorial service is prayed for, as well as Pastor Chris leading a study of Ecclesiastes -• The congregation prays for their own community's needs -• A passage from Ecclesiastes 9:1-12 is read and discussed -• The fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death are acknowledged -• The text also mentions how people live with anxiety about potential bad news and try to maintain control over their lives -• The speaker reflects on how people often expect life to reward their responsible behavior with a predictable and manageable outcome. -• The teacher in Ecclesiastes acknowledges that life is unpredictable and death comes to all, but suggests that admitting this truth is the only way to truly live. -• People often construct worldviews and ways of being that shield them from the uncertainty of life, such as through secular modernity, therapeutic culture, or moralism. -• These shields are eventually broken when tragedy strikes, revealing the fragility of human attempts to control and manage life. -• The book of Ecclesiastes is highlighted for its honesty in naming the ache that people try to ignore: the reality that they are not in control. -• The author praises the book for its brutal honesty and its exploration of Ecclesiastes 9 -• The text in Ecclesiastes 9 is divided into three sections, with the middle section being the main point -• The teacher begins by affirming God's sovereignty over all creation -• Death is a universal and inevitable reality that exposes what people worship in life -• The teacher dismantles human attempts to secure life apart from God by pointing out that everything else is uncertain -• Time and chance happen to everyone, but this is not randomness, rather it is God's providence from the underside -• Human perspective on life cannot predict or guarantee outcomes, leading to two possible interpretations: no meaning or punishment from God -• The futility of trying to control life and the inevitability of death -• The idolatry of trying to be like God through mastery and self-reliance -• The need for creaturely humility and trust in God's sovereignty -• The danger of making good things into ultimate things, such as sex, family, or career -• The path to freedom from these idolatries by receiving life as a gift from God -• Uncertainty and death as a part of life -• Jesus' obedience and sacrifice in the face of uncertainty -• The gospel as the solution to the fear of death and need for control -• Living under God's sovereignty and receiving life as a gift, not a guarantee -• Faithfulness in small things as key to Christian living -• Not needing God to be okay -• Slowing down and resting in God's goodness -• Practicing contentment by refusing to worship God's gifts as ultimates -• Doing all work with all might to honor the one who holds it -• Living life before the face of God, making work a form of worship -• Letting the certainty of Christ's resurrection free you from the fear of death -• The nature of death and the unknown -• Trusting in God's plan and sovereignty -• Overcoming fear and living with faith -• Embracing life as a gift from God -• Praising God for His presence and promises -• Expressions of gratitude and trust in difficult times -• Repeating phrases and declarations of faith -• The speaker repeats the phrase "It is well with my soul" multiple times -• The song "Through it all" is sung, including the lyrics "My eyes are on you" -• An invitation to meet someone for prayer and reflection is given -• A promise of God's presence is shared, including the idea that God goes before, behind, beneath, and beside us -• A blessing from God is requested for a journey of life and faith -• The speaker thanks multiple times at the end \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, November 16, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, November 16, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6c71c0b6126f1927459f39c6ab5cc260fedb8fda..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, November 16, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1170 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 9.66] Son of God, strength be uncompare -[9.66 --> 16.00] You alone, the darkness cannot bear -[16.00 --> 23.44] Lord of love, your kindness draws me near -[23.44 --> 27.00] It draws me near -[27.00 --> 36.22] Son of God, prophecy of all you know -[36.22 --> 40.44] Redeemer of my soul -[40.44 --> 47.16] Come again and lead your people home -[47.16 --> 53.32] Come lead us home, Jesus -[53.32 --> 57.88] Oh Holy One -[57.88 --> 60.86] I say to you -[60.86 --> 62.82] Forgiven -[62.82 --> 65.54] Savior -[65.54 --> 68.70] I'm overcome -[68.70 --> 74.54] With your great love for me -[74.54 --> 78.08] You are worthy -[78.08 --> 81.22] You are worthy -[81.22 --> 87.98] You are worthy of all my praise -[87.98 --> 90.38] You are beautiful -[90.38 --> 93.42] You are beautiful -[93.42 --> 99.12] So I lift up my hands and say -[99.12 --> 104.60] Jesus, oh Lord -[104.60 --> 106.66] You are worthy -[106.66 --> 111.34] You are worthy of all my praise -[111.34 --> 115.00] You are beautiful -[115.00 --> 118.06] So beautiful -[118.06 --> 123.54] I will lift up my hands and say -[123.54 --> 131.44] Jesus, oh Holy One -[131.44 --> 134.50] I sing to you -[134.50 --> 136.66] Forgiven -[136.66 --> 139.42] Savior -[139.42 --> 142.20] I'm overcome -[142.20 --> 143.20] I'm overcome -[143.20 --> 148.20] With your great love for me -[148.20 --> 155.20] With your great love -[155.20 --> 159.08] With your great love -[159.08 --> 161.42] With your great love -[161.42 --> 163.94] Forgiven -[163.94 --> 167.56] With your great love -[167.56 --> 197.54] With your great love -[197.56 --> 204.30] But it's here in the ashes -[204.30 --> 209.04] I'm finding treasures -[209.04 --> 212.62] He's making diamonds -[212.62 --> 215.30] Diamonds -[215.30 --> 219.28] Making diamonds out of dust -[219.28 --> 221.70] He is refining -[221.70 --> 223.92] And in his time -[223.92 --> 225.44] He's making diamonds -[225.44 --> 228.60] Out of us -[228.60 --> 234.14] I'll surrender to the power of being crushed by love -[234.14 --> 242.70] Till the beauty that was hidden isn't covered up -[242.70 --> 250.44] Oh it's not what I hope for -[250.44 --> 254.18] It's something much better -[254.18 --> 258.24] He's making diamonds -[258.24 --> 261.02] Diamonds -[261.02 --> 264.98] Making diamonds out of dust -[264.98 --> 267.36] He is refining -[267.36 --> 267.42] He is refining -[267.42 --> 269.66] And in his timing -[269.66 --> 271.72] He's making diamonds -[271.72 --> 273.46] Out of us -[273.46 --> 276.46] Out of us -[276.46 --> 279.32] Oh the joy of the Lord -[279.32 --> 281.54] It will be my strength -[281.54 --> 283.92] When the pressure is on -[283.92 --> 285.68] He's making diamonds -[285.68 --> 288.48] Oh the joy of the Lord -[288.48 --> 290.70] It will be my strength -[290.70 --> 293.06] When the pressure is on -[293.06 --> 294.82] He's making diamonds -[294.82 --> 297.64] Oh the joy of the Lord -[297.64 --> 299.82] It will be my strength -[299.82 --> 302.20] When the pressure is on -[302.20 --> 302.56] He's making -[302.56 --> 303.56] He's making -[303.56 --> 305.56] He's making diamonds -[305.56 --> 307.56] Diamonds -[307.56 --> 308.90] Diamonds -[308.90 --> 310.72] Making us rise up -[310.72 --> 312.90] From the dust -[312.90 --> 315.40] He is refining -[315.40 --> 317.66] And in his timing -[317.66 --> 319.80] He's making diamonds -[319.80 --> 322.10] Out of dust -[322.10 --> 324.40] Making diamonds -[324.40 --> 326.54] Out of dust -[326.54 --> 328.38] I won't be afraid -[328.38 --> 329.30] To shine -[329.30 --> 332.88] I won't be afraid -[332.88 --> 334.30] To shine -[334.30 --> 337.54] I won't be afraid -[337.54 --> 339.38] Cause he's making diamonds -[339.38 --> 339.90] Cause he's making diamonds -[339.90 --> 342.80] Out of dust -[342.80 --> 343.88] Making diamonds -[343.88 --> 344.88] Out of dust -[344.88 --> 345.02] Making diamonds -[345.02 --> 347.98] Out of us -[367.54 --> 369.54] Hallelujah. -[373.54 --> 377.54] Hallelujah. -[381.54 --> 383.54] Hallelujah. -[387.54 --> 389.54] Hallelujah. -[389.54 --> 391.54] Hallelujah. -[395.54 --> 401.54] Your love is amazing, steady and unchanging. -[401.54 --> 408.54] Your love is a mountain, firm beneath my feet. -[408.54 --> 415.54] Your love is a mystery, how you gently lift me. -[415.54 --> 423.54] When I am surrounded, your love carries me. -[423.54 --> 425.54] Hallelujah. -[425.54 --> 427.54] Hallelujah. -[427.54 --> 429.54] Hallelujah. -[429.54 --> 431.54] Hallelujah. -[431.54 --> 437.54] Your love makes me sing. -[437.54 --> 439.54] Hallelujah. -[439.54 --> 441.54] Hallelujah. -[441.54 --> 443.54] Hallelujah. -[444.74 --> 445.54] Hallelujah. -[449.54 --> 451.54] Your love makes me sing. -[459.54 --> 461.54] Hallelujah. -[461.54 --> 463.54] Hallelujah. -[463.54 --> 467.54] Hallelujah. -[493.54 --> 495.54] Hallelujah. -[495.54 --> 497.54] Hallelujah. -[497.54 --> 500.54] Hallelujah. -[500.54 --> 502.54] Your love makes me sing. -[502.54 --> 503.54] Hallelujah. -[503.54 --> 506.54] Hallelujah. -[506.54 --> 509.54] Hallelujah. -[509.54 --> 512.54] Your love makes me sing. -[512.54 --> 514.54] Hallelujah. -[514.54 --> 519.54] Hallelujah. -[519.54 --> 523.26] Your love makes me sing -[523.26 --> 524.32] Hallelujah -[524.32 --> 526.80] Hallelujah -[526.80 --> 528.40] Hallelujah -[528.40 --> 530.08] Hallelujah -[530.08 --> 534.04] Your love makes me sing -[534.04 --> 544.12] Love, love, love, love -[549.54 --> 554.74] Little, little, little, little, love -[554.74 --> 559.54] Oh yes, love -[559.54 --> 562.12] Love, love, love -[562.12 --> 575.80] Your love is amazing -[575.80 --> 578.16] Steady and unchanging -[578.16 --> 580.64] Your love is a mountain -[580.64 --> 583.12] From beneath my feet -[583.12 --> 585.78] Your love is a mystery -[585.78 --> 588.54] How you gently lift me -[588.54 --> 590.82] When I am surrounded -[590.82 --> 593.54] Your love carries me -[593.54 --> 595.26] Hallelujah -[595.26 --> 597.82] Hallelujah -[597.82 --> 600.30] Hallelujah -[600.30 --> 600.66] Hallelujah -[600.66 --> 604.32] Your love makes me sing -[604.32 --> 605.46] Hallelujah -[605.46 --> 606.42] Hallelujah -[606.42 --> 609.02] Hallelujah -[609.02 --> 611.00] Hallelujah -[612.42 --> 615.06] Hallelujah -[615.06 --> 615.92] Hallelujah -[615.92 --> 616.94] Hallelujah -[617.36 --> 617.92] Hallelujah -[617.92 --> 619.28] Hallelujah -[619.28 --> 623.16] Hallelujah -[623.54 --> 624.06] Hallelujah -[624.06 --> 624.28] Hallelujah -[624.28 --> 625.26] Hallelujah -[625.84 --> 625.96] Hallelujah -[625.96 --> 628.70] Hallelujah -[628.84 --> 628.90] Hallelujah -[628.90 --> 630.84] Hallelujah -[630.84 --> 631.22] Hallelujah -[631.22 --> 631.50] Hallelujah -[631.50 --> 632.60] Hallelujah -[632.60 --> 632.84] Hallelujah -[632.84 --> 633.10] Hallelujah -[633.10 --> 633.66] Hallelujah -[633.74 --> 634.04] Hallelujah -[634.04 --> 634.30] Hallelujah -[634.30 --> 664.28] Thank you. -[664.30 --> 668.28] You are the peace in my troubled sea. -[671.58 --> 676.02] In the silence you won't let go. -[676.62 --> 680.46] In the questions your truth will hold. -[680.96 --> 684.62] Your great love will lead me through. -[685.46 --> 689.10] You are the peace in my troubled sea. -[689.10 --> 694.20] You are the peace in my troubled sea. -[694.30 --> 700.98] My lighthouse, my lighthouse. -[701.50 --> 705.40] Shining in the darkness, I will follow you. -[705.94 --> 709.42] My lighthouse, my lighthouse. -[710.20 --> 712.04] I will trust the promise. -[712.70 --> 715.38] You will carry me safe to shore. -[715.38 --> 719.82] Safe to shore. -[722.06 --> 724.14] Safe to shore. -[726.62 --> 728.52] Safe to shore. -[728.52 --> 735.52] I won't feel what tomorrow brings. -[735.52 --> 740.44] With each morning I'll rise and sing. -[741.12 --> 744.62] My God's love will lead me through. -[745.52 --> 749.08] You are the peace in my troubled sea. -[749.08 --> 753.64] You are the peace in my troubled sea. -[754.38 --> 756.80] You are my light. -[757.36 --> 760.92] My lighthouse, my lighthouse. -[761.60 --> 765.34] Shining in the darkness, I will follow you. -[765.90 --> 769.44] My lighthouse, my lighthouse. -[769.44 --> 772.04] I will trust the promise. -[772.54 --> 775.30] You will carry me safe to shore. -[778.30 --> 779.60] Good morning. -[780.94 --> 783.00] Welcome to church. -[783.54 --> 788.10] A special welcome if you are a guest here or if you are joining us online. -[788.64 --> 791.68] We appreciate you gathering with us for worship. -[791.82 --> 792.54] My name is Chris. -[792.54 --> 795.00] I'm one of the pastors here at Emanuel. -[795.32 --> 801.52] And it's my privilege to lead in our worship this morning with a few others here as well. -[802.68 --> 806.36] As we gather for worship in community, we've got a couple announcements. -[806.64 --> 812.26] And so I'm going to have Mike make his way to the front as he has an announcement from the deacons. -[813.00 --> 818.54] And then I also just want to remind you or inform you that tonight at 7 p.m., -[818.54 --> 824.86] HCBC and the Canons of Dort reading group are happening here. -[825.32 --> 829.62] So we meet for the Canons of Dort in the multipurpose room, HCBC. -[829.86 --> 831.94] That's from grades 9 through 12. -[832.12 --> 834.96] You'll meet with your leaders in different rooms as well. -[835.08 --> 838.54] And so we'd love to see you out for that evening tonight. -[839.20 --> 842.72] It's the second gathering this year for those different groups. -[843.18 --> 843.34] Mike? -[843.34 --> 849.00] Yeah, and again, we're running a bit of a Christmas hamper campaign like we have in many years past. -[849.16 --> 853.28] And we're partnering with H.D. Stafford Middle School and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Langley. -[853.40 --> 857.94] So we still need quite a few people to sign up and to be part of that. -[858.00 --> 862.38] So you would help provide a hamper for a family in need in Langley. -[862.88 --> 867.68] And they usually, the organization usually gives us a wish list and more details to follow. -[867.68 --> 871.26] But we just need some people to sign up to help provide that in December. -[871.62 --> 875.98] So there's a sign up at the information booth or you can talk to myself or Pearl Denhawn. -[876.40 --> 882.02] And we're still looking for about 10 more people to sign up, which would be really great to help out those organizations. -[882.28 --> 884.14] So talk with us after the service. -[886.08 --> 886.82] Thanks, Mike. -[886.82 --> 898.16] As well, just a note on Wednesday of this week at 7 p.m., the Through the Bible group is gathering again. -[898.44 --> 905.84] And this Wednesday at 7, we'll be discussing the riveting book of the Bible known as Leviticus. -[906.82 --> 911.92] And so if you're looking for a time to jump into the reading program, this is a good one. -[912.24 --> 916.06] It will be a fun discussion, I am sure, on Wednesday night at 7 p.m. -[916.06 --> 919.22] And then lastly, you may have seen it out in the foyer. -[919.92 --> 923.32] The sign up for the women's Christmas event is there. -[923.64 --> 929.56] And you can sign up to decorate a table or to help clean up and to participate in that. -[929.92 --> 932.92] I trust that there will be someone from the women's fellowship group. -[933.02 --> 937.98] They'll gather at the back there and answer any questions you have following our service together. -[938.76 --> 940.24] I think that's it for announcements. -[940.84 --> 943.98] So I'm going to invite you, as you're able and where you are, to stand. -[943.98 --> 946.98] That we can be welcomed into God's presence together. -[950.92 --> 958.22] Worship starts with God proclaiming his presence, his nearness, his greeting over us. -[958.34 --> 965.04] And then we respond to that by extending it to those around us as God ushers us into worship. -[965.24 --> 970.62] And so after I give you God's greeting, I invite you to turn to those around you and welcome them in worship this morning. -[970.76 --> 972.60] Receive the greeting of our good God. -[972.60 --> 981.88] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son and our Savior, -[982.56 --> 984.74] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[985.74 --> 985.98] Amen. -[1002.60 --> 1029.14] Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. -[1029.14 --> 1032.34] Just and true are your ways, King of the ages. -[1032.94 --> 1035.98] Who will not fear you, O Lord, and bring glory to your name? -[1036.42 --> 1037.78] For you alone are holy. -[1038.14 --> 1040.96] All nations will come and worship you, the living God. -[1040.96 --> 1066.42] Come, people of the risen King, who delight to bring in praise. -[1066.42 --> 1074.82] Come, all in tune your hearts to sing through the morning star of grace. -[1075.32 --> 1083.30] From the shifting shadows of the earth, we will lift our eyes to him. -[1083.30 --> 1090.38] Where steady arms of mercy reach to gather children. -[1090.38 --> 1099.38] Rejoice, rejoice, let every tongue rejoice. -[1099.38 --> 1104.98] Rejoice, one heart, one voice. -[1104.98 --> 1111.98] O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[1111.98 --> 1123.74] Come those whose joy is morning sun, and those weeping through the night. -[1123.74 --> 1132.08] Come those who tell of battle's won, and those struggling in the night. -[1132.08 --> 1140.46] For his perfect love will never change, and his mercies never cease. -[1140.46 --> 1148.80] But follow us through all our days with a certain hope of peace. -[1148.80 --> 1157.26] Rejoice, rejoice, let every tongue rejoice. -[1157.26 --> 1161.46] One heart, one voice. -[1161.46 --> 1164.80] O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[1164.80 --> 1194.78] O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[1194.80 --> 1196.80] Rejoice, rejoice. -[1196.80 --> 1197.80] Rejoice, rejoice. -[1197.80 --> 1201.80] Come those who tell of the Lord, and those who tell of the Lord. -[1201.80 --> 1203.80] The truth that Christ through every age our God is all in all. -[1203.80 --> 1206.80] Rejoice, rejoice. -[1206.80 --> 1213.80] Rejoice, let every tongue rejoice. -[1213.80 --> 1216.86] One heart, one voice. -[1216.86 --> 1219.30] O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[1219.30 --> 1235.70] rejoice rejoice rejoice let every talk rejoice one heart one voice home church of christ -[1235.70 --> 1249.94] please join me in our prayer of confession this morning -[1252.18 --> 1261.70] gracious god our sins are too heavy to carry too real to hide and too deep to undo forgive what -[1261.70 --> 1269.38] our lips tremble to name what our hearts can no longer bear and what has become for us a consuming fire -[1270.02 --> 1279.86] of judgment -[1282.02 --> 1287.22] living god set us free from a past that we cannot change -[1287.22 --> 1295.86] open to us a future in which we can be changed and grant us grace to grow more and more in your -[1295.86 --> 1302.10] likeness and image through jesus christ the light of the world amen -[1302.10 --> 1314.10] oh lord -[1314.10 --> 1327.14] oh lord forgive us we have lost the awe of you -[1327.14 --> 1337.14] oh -[1337.14 --> 1348.18] O Lord, cleanse our hearts which are divided. -[1348.18 --> 1356.18] Stir the faith that we once knew. -[1356.18 --> 1363.86] We're thirsty, we're thirsty. -[1363.86 --> 1377.26] O Lord, restore the church that bears your name. -[1377.26 --> 1390.46] O Spirit, send a revival to this nation. -[1390.46 --> 1394.86] Breathe on us again. -[1394.86 --> 1401.86] Breathe on us again. -[1405.86 --> 1411.86] O Lord, hear. -[1411.86 --> 1418.86] O Lord, forgive us. -[1418.86 --> 1425.26] We have lost the of you. -[1425.26 --> 1432.26] Have mercy, have mercy. -[1432.26 --> 1444.26] O Lord, cleanse our hearts which are divided. -[1444.26 --> 1451.26] Stir the faith that we once knew. -[1451.26 --> 1457.66] We're thirsty, we're thirsty. -[1457.66 --> 1472.66] O Lord, restore the church that bears your name. -[1472.66 --> 1484.66] O Spirit, send a revival to this nation. -[1484.66 --> 1491.06] Breathe on us again. -[1491.06 --> 1496.66] Breathe on us again. -[1496.66 --> 1497.66] Breathe on us again. -[1497.66 --> 1511.66] Oh Lord, restore the church that bears your name. -[1511.66 --> 1524.66] Oh Spirit, send a revival to this nation. -[1524.66 --> 1530.66] Breathe on us again. -[1530.66 --> 1536.66] Breathe on us again. -[1536.66 --> 1538.66] inside a spiritual jae 하루. -[1538.66 --> 1541.56] utilizan the flag of Christ e' zal 100 -[1541.56 --> 1542.22] Jungle dear, -[1542.22 --> 1544.26] 書1 map Michael 930 -[1544.26 --> 1548.52] Queen ś -[1548.52 --> 1549.02] G 않을 제 viernes -[1549.02 --> 1549.54] Access Artor과를 -[1549.54 --> 1553.48] 願하는 -[1553.66 --> 1556.52] God to love the world, -[1556.52 --> 1558.06] that He gave His one and only Son, -[1558.06 --> 1560.02] so that everyone who believes in Him -[1560.02 --> 1561.50] may not perish, but have eternal life. -[1561.56 --> 1562.06] Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world -[1562.06 --> 1562.92] to condemn the world, -[1562.92 --> 1563.96] but in order that the world might be saved through Him. -[1563.96 --> 1565.96] Amen. -[1593.96 --> 1602.54] And yet for me, your love is still the same. -[1604.50 --> 1613.96] Lord, I bend my knee, it is awe and fear of me. -[1613.96 --> 1623.34] My head bowed down in reverence to your name. -[1623.96 --> 1634.26] I lift your name, your holy name. -[1634.70 --> 1642.96] The home of God, and all here. -[1642.96 --> 1652.96] The great I am, there is a land. -[1653.96 --> 1662.26] I comfort her and heal. -[1662.26 --> 1672.26] Lord, my heart's desire is to be filled with spirit fire. -[1672.26 --> 1680.56] My purpose is to worship you alone. -[1680.56 --> 1691.56] Open up my soul to worship and adore. -[1691.56 --> 1700.56] To be a fragrance proper to your throne. -[1700.56 --> 1710.56] I lift your name, your holy name. -[1710.56 --> 1716.56] The great I am, the risen Lamb. -[1716.56 --> 1718.56] And all here. -[1718.56 --> 1726.56] The great I am, the risen Lamb. -[1726.56 --> 1736.56] The risen Lamb, my comfort and king. -[1736.56 --> 1738.56] The great I am, the risen Lamb. -[1738.56 --> 1740.56] The great I am, the risen Lamb. -[1740.56 --> 1742.56] The great I am, the risen Lamb. -[1742.56 --> 1743.56] The great I am, the risen Lamb. -[1743.56 --> 1744.56] The great I am, the risen Lamb. -[1744.56 --> 1748.56] The great I am, the risen Lamb. -[1748.56 --> 1749.56] The great I am, the risen Lamb. -[1749.56 --> 1754.56] The great I am, the risen Lamb. -[1754.56 --> 1758.56] The great I am, the risen Lamb. -[1758.56 --> 1780.56] The great I am, the risen Lamb. -[1780.56 --> 1781.56] Amen. -[1810.56 --> 1811.56] Amen. -[1840.56 --> 1860.56] If you stood before my failure and carried the cross for my shame, my sin weighed upon your shoulder, my soul now to stand. -[1860.56 --> 1872.56] So what can I say and what can I do? -[1872.56 --> 1883.56] For all through this heart, O God, completely is true. -[1883.56 --> 1895.56] So I'll walk upon salvation, your spirit alive in me. -[1895.56 --> 1904.56] My life to declare your promise, my soul now to stand. -[1904.56 --> 1915.56] So what can I say and what can I do? -[1915.56 --> 1927.56] For all through this heart, O God, completely to you? -[1927.56 --> 1938.56] So what can I say and what can I do? -[1938.56 --> 1949.56] For all through this heart, O God, completely to you? -[1949.56 --> 1969.56] So I'll stand with arms high and heart of ending in awe of the one who gave it all. -[1969.56 --> 1991.56] So I'll stand with arms high and heart of ending in awe of the one who gave it all. -[1991.56 --> 2014.56] I'll stand with arms high and heart of ending in awe of the one who gave it all. -[2014.56 --> 2023.56] So I'll stand with arms high and heart of ending in awe of the one who gave it all. -[2023.56 --> 2024.56] I'll stand, my soul, Lord, to you. Surrender it all. -[2024.56 --> 2025.56] I am is yours. -[2025.56 --> 2030.56] I am is yours. -[2030.56 --> 2032.56] Amen. -[2032.56 --> 2033.56] Amen. -[2033.56 --> 2049.56] Good morning. -[2049.56 --> 2050.56] Good morning. -[2050.56 --> 2054.56] My name is Brenda and I'm one of the deacons here at Emmanuel. -[2054.56 --> 2058.56] First off, just, I guess you could call it a little bit of housekeeping. -[2058.56 --> 2063.56] There are multiple ways to give as we give as we continue our worship. -[2063.56 --> 2066.56] And they're up on the screen here. -[2066.56 --> 2072.56] And our first, our offering is for the budget as well as for World Renew. -[2072.56 --> 2083.56] If you are looking to donate, whether it's through e-transfer, whether it's online, whether it's with the envelopes that should be in the seats, -[2083.56 --> 2089.56] please label it, if it's budget, if it's for a special offering. -[2089.56 --> 2094.56] We have the ongoing need for Jodi and Ariel in Mexico. -[2094.56 --> 2099.56] If you could label that for C10, that would be great. -[2099.56 --> 2105.56] Our offering this morning is for World Renew, the refugee sponsorship and resettlement. -[2105.56 --> 2114.56] Again, just to clarify, here at Emmanuel, we also have a refugee sponsorship and resettlement. -[2114.56 --> 2117.56] That is not what today's offering is for. -[2117.56 --> 2120.56] Today it is specifically for World Renew. -[2120.56 --> 2122.56] Just to make that clear. -[2122.56 --> 2127.56] If you have any questions about any of these things, please contact one of the deacons. -[2127.56 --> 2129.56] Anyways, World Renew. -[2129.56 --> 2136.56] Each year, millions of people around the world are forced to flee their homes due to war, persecution, and human rights violations. -[2136.56 --> 2140.56] There are more than 30 million refugees in the world today. -[2140.56 --> 2152.56] Since 1979, World Renew, with churches and other sponsoring agencies, has responded to the needs of refugees around the world and has helped to settle thousands in Canada as well. -[2152.56 --> 2162.56] Your donation helps to fund World Renew's refugee sponsorship and resettlement program, which includes guiding and supporting churches through the sponsorship process. -[2162.56 --> 2166.56] And that is a process that we as a church has also been involved in. -[2166.56 --> 2169.56] Please give as the Lord has blessed you. -[2169.56 --> 2173.56] One month for a strong project, which is freaking out of عed Ōsosaurus Loki towards Jesús, who is still this year? -[2173.56 --> 2174.56] By objection to 34. -[2174.56 --> 2175.56] LPLJ-40 검찰art & Rosetti,acer, Lenin Loganle, has contracted Meer, High School of color, dancer, and swearing in Alaska Commander, -[2175.56 --> 2180.42] Let the way our student friends go through and will fall together and遭返 many people around the world, -[2180.42 --> 2194.54] also welcome to friends with the, to bever -[2194.56 --> 2196.56] shall be appropriate for the環境 coming. -[2196.56 --> 2207.38] Man of sorrow, Lamb of God, by his own betray. -[2208.28 --> 2220.38] The sin of man and wrath of God has been on Jesus' name. -[2220.38 --> 2234.38] Silent as he stood accused, beaten, mocked, and scorned. -[2235.28 --> 2244.38] Bowing to the Father's veil, he took a crown of thorns. -[2244.38 --> 2256.38] Oh, that rugged cross, my salvation, where your love poured out over me. -[2257.52 --> 2268.64] Now my soul cries out, Hallelujah, praise and honor unto thee. -[2268.64 --> 2282.48] Send to heaven God's own Son to purchase and redeem. -[2282.48 --> 2294.48] And reconcile the very ones who nailed him to that tree. -[2294.48 --> 2306.82] Oh, that rugged cross, my salvation, where your love poured out over me. -[2307.06 --> 2318.24] Now my soul cries out, Hallelujah, praise and honor unto thee. -[2318.24 --> 2333.66] Now my debt is paid, it is paid in full, By the precious blood that my Jesus spilled. -[2333.98 --> 2345.24] Now the curse of sin has no hold on me, Whom the Son sets free, oh, it's free indeed. -[2345.24 --> 2375.22] Now that rugged cross, my salvation, Where your love poured out over me. -[2375.22 --> 2391.22] Now my soul cries out, Hallelujah, praise and honor unto thee. -[2391.22 --> 2405.22] See the stone is rolled away, Behold the empty tomb. -[2405.22 --> 2417.22] Hallelujah, God be praised, He's risen from the grave. -[2417.22 --> 2428.22] Oh, that rugged cross, my salvation, Where your love poured out over me. -[2428.22 --> 2439.22] Now my soul cries out, Hallelujah, praise and honor unto thee. -[2439.22 --> 2447.22] Praise and honor unto thee. -[2447.22 --> 2449.86] You may have a seat. -[2469.22 --> 2477.22] Good, because I have a little list here. -[2477.22 --> 2480.22] Questions, things in life I just cannot figure out. -[2480.22 --> 2485.22] But I think you guys probably have some answers for me, right? -[2485.22 --> 2486.22] You guys are pretty smart. -[2486.22 --> 2489.22] Every week we see you in Children's Rocher Time, you guys are pretty smart. -[2489.22 --> 2495.22] So I'm going to need some volunteers who might want to answer a few of my conundrums and questions in life. -[2495.22 --> 2497.22] Who wants to be the brave souls? -[2497.22 --> 2499.22] Come on up, Haley, come on up. -[2499.22 --> 2500.22] Want to help me out? -[2500.22 --> 2502.22] Come on up, come on up. -[2502.22 --> 2503.22] Okay, alright. -[2503.22 --> 2505.22] We're going to ask a few questions. -[2505.22 --> 2509.22] Life can be super confusing and I never know what's going to happen next day to next. -[2509.22 --> 2510.22] So I have a few questions. -[2510.22 --> 2511.22] Okay. -[2511.22 --> 2512.22] You want to go first? -[2512.22 --> 2513.22] Okay. -[2513.22 --> 2514.22] My first question, no? -[2514.22 --> 2515.22] Okay. -[2515.22 --> 2517.22] Well, that was my first question. -[2517.22 --> 2518.22] Okay. -[2518.22 --> 2519.22] We're going to start with you, Isla. -[2519.22 --> 2524.22] My first question is, why can't I ever find my keys? -[2524.22 --> 2529.22] Do you know? -[2529.22 --> 2530.22] No? -[2530.22 --> 2531.22] Okay. -[2531.22 --> 2532.22] That's okay. -[2532.22 --> 2533.22] You think about it. -[2533.22 --> 2536.22] Okay, Haley, this one's for you. -[2536.22 --> 2541.22] When you're in a big hurry, why is it that your zipper always gets stuck? -[2541.22 --> 2542.22] No, no. -[2542.22 --> 2543.22] Not sure? -[2543.22 --> 2544.22] I know. -[2544.22 --> 2545.22] Life is a little confusing sometimes. -[2545.22 --> 2546.22] Okay. -[2546.22 --> 2549.22] We're going to go over here. -[2549.22 --> 2555.22] My friend, why does it always rain after I've washed my car? -[2555.22 --> 2558.22] I don't know. -[2558.22 --> 2560.22] Oh, yeah, me neither. -[2560.22 --> 2562.22] Oh, these are tricky questions. -[2562.22 --> 2564.22] So I have quite a few here. -[2564.22 --> 2567.22] We won't do all of them. -[2567.22 --> 2568.22] Hmm. -[2568.22 --> 2569.22] Okay. -[2569.22 --> 2571.22] Here's a tricky one. -[2571.22 --> 2573.22] You think some of these are jokes? -[2573.22 --> 2576.22] I've been worrying about this stuff all week. -[2576.22 --> 2585.22] Why is it when I put two socks, two socks in the laundry and only one comes out? -[2585.22 --> 2586.22] You don't know. -[2586.22 --> 2587.22] Me neither. -[2587.22 --> 2588.22] These are hard. -[2588.22 --> 2589.22] I have one. -[2589.22 --> 2590.22] Okay. -[2590.22 --> 2591.22] Who wants the next one? -[2591.22 --> 2594.22] We can ask a few more in children's worship. -[2594.22 --> 2595.22] You want the next one? -[2595.22 --> 2596.22] Okay. -[2596.22 --> 2602.22] When a goldfish sneezes, do bubbles blow out of its mouth? -[2602.22 --> 2603.22] Yes. -[2603.22 --> 2604.22] Yes. -[2604.22 --> 2605.22] Okay. -[2605.22 --> 2606.22] Phew. -[2606.22 --> 2607.22] Finally an answer. -[2607.22 --> 2608.22] I've been worried about this all week. -[2608.22 --> 2609.22] Oh, my goodness. -[2609.22 --> 2610.22] I know. -[2610.22 --> 2611.22] Okay. -[2611.22 --> 2613.22] We'll save some of these for the large group. -[2613.22 --> 2616.22] But life is confusing sometimes, right? -[2616.22 --> 2617.22] Wait a second. -[2617.22 --> 2618.22] Oh. -[2618.22 --> 2620.22] You want to ask me in children's worship time? -[2620.22 --> 2621.22] Okay. -[2621.22 --> 2622.22] That's a good idea. -[2622.22 --> 2623.22] Oh, boy. -[2623.22 --> 2624.22] I know. -[2624.22 --> 2626.22] So sometimes life is so confusing and we don't know what's going to happen one day to the next -[2626.22 --> 2628.22] or why certain things happen. -[2628.22 --> 2633.22] There is a great lesson in the book of Ecclesiastes about this and we're going to talk more about -[2633.22 --> 2637.22] that in children's worship time and I think Pastor Chris is also going to preach about -[2637.22 --> 2638.22] that today too. -[2638.22 --> 2639.22] All right. -[2639.22 --> 2643.22] So why don't we stand together with the congregation and we'll bless them as they learn about Ecclesiastes -[2643.22 --> 2647.22] and I think they'll bless us in return as we learn a little bit more too. -[2647.22 --> 2648.22] All right. -[2648.22 --> 2649.22] Together, let's go. -[2649.22 --> 2651.22] The Lord be with you. -[2651.22 --> 2653.22] And also with you. -[2677.22 --> 2678.22] Good morning. -[2678.22 --> 2679.22] My name is Dave. -[2679.22 --> 2682.22] I'm one of the elders for this part of God's church. -[2682.22 --> 2687.22] A couple of announcements from Council before I begin in our church family prayer. -[2687.22 --> 2690.22] On November the 24th is our fall AGM. -[2690.22 --> 2699.22] We are going to discuss and approve the approved proposed budget for 2026. -[2699.22 --> 2702.22] We'll start at 6 p.m. with our tri soup tournament. -[2702.22 --> 2707.22] You are encouraged to bring your favorite or your best soup to share and whoever wins -[2707.22 --> 2708.22] will be the champion of the world. -[2708.22 --> 2712.22] The meeting will begin at 7 p.m. -[2712.22 --> 2715.22] The agenda and the meeting package has already gone out previously. -[2715.22 --> 2719.22] If you need a printed copy, please contact the church office. -[2719.22 --> 2725.22] And at the end of October we're at 13% behind on our budget giving. -[2725.22 --> 2733.22] This is something we talk about every year and it seems like every year we seem to just meet that need. -[2733.22 --> 2742.22] Please consider the budget and the ministry, all the work that our church does as we consider their end of year giving. -[2742.22 --> 2751.22] Will you please join me in our church family prayer? -[2751.22 --> 2755.22] Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth. -[2755.22 --> 2757.22] You have set your glory in the heavens. -[2757.22 --> 2764.22] Through the praise of children and infants, you have established a stronghold against your enemies to silence the foe and the avenger. -[2764.22 --> 2770.22] When we consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars which you have set in place, -[2770.22 --> 2775.22] what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them. -[2775.22 --> 2778.22] Father, it is our joy to be here every Sunday. -[2778.22 --> 2781.22] As members of the Christian community and members of Christ's body, -[2781.22 --> 2787.22] we gather to celebrate the love that you show your people and to sing praises to your name. -[2787.22 --> 2792.22] Father, it is very important that we remember to confess our sins before you. -[2792.22 --> 2794.22] In the words of King David, -[2794.22 --> 2801.22] Have mercy on us, O God, according to your unfailing love, according to your great compassion, blot out our transgressions. -[2801.22 --> 2805.22] Wash away all our iniquity and cleanse us from our sin. -[2805.22 --> 2809.22] For we know our transgressions and our sin are always before us. -[2809.22 --> 2814.22] Against you, you only, have we sinned and done what is evil in your sight. -[2814.22 --> 2818.22] So you are right in your verdict and justified when you judge. -[2818.22 --> 2825.22] Father, because our sins are so great, we take great joy in the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. -[2825.22 --> 2830.22] He has willingly taken our sins upon himself and borne the punishment that we deserve. -[2830.22 --> 2833.22] Hallelujah. What a Savior. -[2833.22 --> 2837.22] Father, we come to you because we have many reasons to be thankful. -[2837.22 --> 2841.22] We thank you for the changing seasons and the fall weather and the beginning of winter. -[2841.22 --> 2847.22] It is an opportunity for all of us to spend time outdoors and to experience the beauty of your creation. -[2847.22 --> 2854.22] Father, we look around us and we see decorations and advertising already dedicated to the commercialization of Christmas. -[2854.22 --> 2864.22] As the season of Advent approaches, help us not to be distracted by that competing message and to instead celebrate the coming of Emmanuel, God with us. -[2864.22 --> 2868.22] Thank you for that indescribable gift of love. -[2868.22 --> 2872.22] We thank you for this congregation and the believers who meet here. -[2872.22 --> 2874.22] We thank you for the leadership of this church. -[2874.22 --> 2877.22] Pastor Chris, Pastor Kevin, Josh and members of council. -[2877.22 --> 2881.22] We thank you for the many ministries of this church. -[2881.22 --> 2891.22] Nursery, Children's Worship Time, Gems, Cadets, Youth, Young Adults, Coffee Break, Care Groups, Seniors and other ministries. -[2891.22 --> 2894.22] We ask that you bless these ministries and the work that they do. -[2894.22 --> 2898.22] May they meet the spiritual and physical needs that we see around us. -[2898.22 --> 2904.22] Father, we think of the needs that we have as a Christian community and as citizens of the world. -[2904.22 --> 2907.22] We pray again for the conflicts around the world. -[2907.22 --> 2913.22] We pray that the shaky ceasefire in Gaza will hold and the two sides will have sufficient reason to stop this conflict. -[2913.22 --> 2920.22] We pray for those suffering from the violence that is continuing in Ukraine and Russia and showing no sign of ending soon. -[2920.22 --> 2927.22] We pray for the conflicts that we don't think about as often in Sudan, Myanmar, Yemen and other places. -[2927.22 --> 2934.22] Grant all leaders on all sides of all conflicts the wisdom, the humility and the courage to pursue peace. -[2934.22 --> 2938.22] Father, we think about the needs of this congregation. -[2938.22 --> 2944.22] We pray for the family and the extended family of Maryland's Uncle Walter who passed away last week. -[2944.22 --> 2953.22] We pray that the memorial service will be a time for the family not just to mourn but to receive your comfort and to celebrate the love of family and the life he lived. -[2953.22 --> 2961.22] And Father, we pray for Pastor Chris as he leads us a study of your word as revealed to the teacher in Ecclesiastes. -[2961.22 --> 2965.22] We pray that each of us may find meaning in an age of meaninglessness. -[2965.22 --> 2972.22] Father, we pray all these things for Lord our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth. -[2972.22 --> 2973.22] Amen. -[2973.22 --> 2994.22] I want to invite you to grab a Bible, open up a Bible. -[2994.22 --> 2999.22] We're going to read Ecclesiastes 9, verse 1 through 12. -[2999.22 --> 3001.22] If you're looking for a Bible to use, there are some at the back. -[3001.22 --> 3004.22] You can grab that the first time through. -[3004.22 --> 3006.22] It will be on the screen behind me. -[3006.22 --> 3012.22] But I encourage you as always to have it open in front of you that we refer back to it regularly throughout. -[3012.22 --> 3018.22] Let's read together from Ecclesiastes 9, starting at verse 1. -[3018.22 --> 3035.22] So I reflected on all this and concluded that the righteous and the wise and what they do are in God's hands. -[3035.22 --> 3039.22] But no one knows whether love or hate awaits them. -[3039.22 --> 3042.22] All share a common destiny. -[3042.22 --> 3049.22] The righteous and the wicked, the good and the bad, the clean and the unclean, -[3049.22 --> 3052.22] those who offer sacrifices and those who do not. -[3052.22 --> 3059.22] As it is with the good, so with the sinful. -[3059.22 --> 3065.22] As it is with those who take oaths, so with those who are afraid to take them. -[3065.22 --> 3072.22] This is the evil in everything that happens under the sun. -[3072.22 --> 3075.22] The same destiny overtakes them all. -[3075.22 --> 3081.22] The hearts of people, moreover, are full of evil and there is madness in their hearts while they live. -[3081.22 --> 3084.22] And afterward, they join the dead. -[3084.22 --> 3088.22] Anyone who is among the living has hope. -[3088.22 --> 3092.22] Even a live dog is better off than a dead lion. -[3092.22 --> 3098.22] For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing. -[3098.22 --> 3102.22] They have no further reward and even their name is forgotten. -[3102.22 --> 3108.22] Their love, their hate, and their jealousy have long since vanished. -[3108.22 --> 3113.22] Never again will they have a part in anything that happens under the sun. -[3113.22 --> 3115.22] Go. -[3115.22 --> 3121.22] Eat your food with gladness and drink your wine with a joyful heart, -[3121.22 --> 3125.22] for God has already approved what you do. -[3125.22 --> 3130.22] Always be clothed in white and always anoint your head with oil. -[3130.22 --> 3133.22] Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love, -[3133.22 --> 3137.22] all the days of this meaningless life that God has given you under the sun, -[3137.22 --> 3145.22] all your meaningless days, for this is your lot in life and your toilsome labor under the sun. -[3145.22 --> 3149.22] Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might. -[3149.22 --> 3152.22] For in the realm of the dead, where you are going, -[3152.22 --> 3158.22] there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom. -[3158.22 --> 3163.22] I have seen something else under the sun. -[3163.22 --> 3167.22] The race is not to the swift or the battle to the strong, -[3167.22 --> 3172.22] nor does food come to the wise or wealth to the brilliant or favor to the learned, -[3172.22 --> 3177.22] but time and chance happen to them all. -[3177.22 --> 3182.22] Moreover, no one knows when their hour will come. -[3182.22 --> 3186.22] As fish are caught in a cruel net or birds are taken in a snare, -[3186.22 --> 3193.22] so people are trapped by evil times that fall unexpectedly on them. -[3193.22 --> 3195.22] This is the word of the Lord. -[3195.22 --> 3214.22] Whenever my phone rings, which I confess is not often because people don't really call anymore, -[3214.22 --> 3221.22] but whenever my phone rings after 8pm, my heart skips a beat. -[3221.22 --> 3227.22] The bottom sort of drops into my stomach, and I wonder, what happened? -[3227.22 --> 3229.22] Who died? -[3229.22 --> 3231.22] What's gone wrong? -[3231.22 --> 3234.22] Now maybe that's in part because I'm a pastor, -[3234.22 --> 3240.22] and those late night calls often mean that something has happened, -[3240.22 --> 3246.22] but I'm willing to bet that many of you feel the same way -[3246.22 --> 3254.22] when you get that late night call or a text that comes in after 10 o'clock, for example. -[3254.22 --> 3255.22] Right? -[3255.22 --> 3265.22] We live with the low hum of dread that the next notification, the next message, the next headline -[3265.22 --> 3271.22] might just unravel that little bit of stability that we have curated. -[3271.22 --> 3279.22] And we work so hard to keep life predictable and manageable and under control. -[3279.22 --> 3284.22] And we think, if we are just responsible and careful and prayerful, -[3284.22 --> 3288.22] shouldn't life reward that? -[3288.22 --> 3292.22] Shouldn't things make a little bit of sense? -[3292.22 --> 3296.22] Now, let me be really careful. Don't hear what I'm not saying, please. -[3296.22 --> 3298.22] Myself, and I speak for Pastor Kevin as well, -[3298.22 --> 3301.22] like call after 8 o'clock if you need something. -[3301.22 --> 3304.22] Right? Text after 10 if you need to connect. -[3304.22 --> 3306.22] We want that connection. -[3308.22 --> 3312.22] But there's something in all of us, right, -[3312.22 --> 3319.22] that desperately wants life to run on a predictable timetable. -[3319.22 --> 3325.22] And so we think that if we are responsible, life should reward us. -[3325.22 --> 3329.22] That if we do good, good should return to us. -[3329.22 --> 3334.22] That if we love the Lord, then life should at least be manageable. -[3336.22 --> 3338.22] But then something happens. -[3339.22 --> 3344.22] Life interrupts, sometimes violently, sometimes tragically. -[3344.22 --> 3350.22] And when it does, there's a tiny bit of panic in our hearts that sort of, -[3350.22 --> 3353.22] maybe this is only in me, but kind of like whisper shouts. -[3353.22 --> 3355.22] You know what a whisper shout is? -[3355.22 --> 3357.22] Right? That doesn't want to say it, but it's so true. -[3357.22 --> 3359.22] It has to break through the noise. -[3359.22 --> 3360.22] Right? Wait a minute! -[3360.22 --> 3362.22] This isn't supposed to happen! -[3362.22 --> 3364.22] I did everything right! -[3367.22 --> 3372.22] The teacher in Ecclesiastes leans in at precisely this point. -[3372.22 --> 3379.22] And he doesn't offer us a way to control life or even to explain life. -[3379.22 --> 3384.22] Instead, the teacher wants to disrupt our regular rhythms -[3384.22 --> 3388.22] with a truth that we tend to avoid at all costs. -[3388.22 --> 3391.22] That life is unpredictable. -[3393.22 --> 3396.22] And death comes to us all. -[3396.22 --> 3403.22] And strangely, shockingly perhaps, right, he says that admitting this truth -[3403.22 --> 3407.22] is actually the only way to really live. -[3407.22 --> 3414.22] Now, if you'll allow me to offer my perspective and analyze for a moment. -[3414.22 --> 3415.22] Right? -[3415.22 --> 3419.22] If we peel back those late night anxieties, -[3419.22 --> 3424.22] what we really long for, I think, is a world that makes sense. -[3424.22 --> 3425.22] Right? -[3425.22 --> 3428.22] A world where the lines are straight, -[3428.22 --> 3430.22] where the outcomes are predictable, -[3430.22 --> 3434.22] and where the future is at least somewhat guaranteed. -[3435.22 --> 3440.22] And at least available in some way that we can anticipate. -[3441.22 --> 3444.22] Right? We long for stability and for control. -[3444.22 --> 3449.22] We want to believe that if we live wisely, if we work hard, if we love well, -[3449.22 --> 3451.22] if we walk faithfully with God, -[3451.22 --> 3457.22] then our life should unfold in an ordinary and orderly way. -[3459.22 --> 3465.22] But the teacher, again, is saying something here that we already know in our bones. -[3465.22 --> 3468.22] It just doesn't work that way. -[3468.22 --> 3472.22] Life isn't like that. -[3474.22 --> 3479.22] And what happens to so many of us, and often subconsciously, -[3479.22 --> 3483.22] is that because we cannot bear the thought of it, -[3483.22 --> 3487.22] we construct entire worldviews and ways of being in the world -[3487.22 --> 3493.22] that shield ourselves from this truth and the ache that it creates in us. -[3493.22 --> 3500.22] And so, for example, what is regularly referred to as secular modernity, -[3500.22 --> 3504.22] secular modernity says that if we gather enough data, -[3504.22 --> 3508.22] use the right technology, if we master enough systems, -[3508.22 --> 3511.22] we can eliminate unpredictability. -[3511.22 --> 3516.22] Right? Safety and medicine and wealth, wealth management, -[3516.22 --> 3522.22] these are all good gifts, but we often turn them into talismans -[3522.22 --> 3525.22] that we use to ward off uncertainty. -[3527.22 --> 3532.22] Likewise, a therapeutic culture tells us that if we manage our emotions, -[3532.22 --> 3538.22] if we visualize our successes, set boundaries and curate our habits carefully, -[3538.22 --> 3545.22] if we manifest hard enough, we can carve out a life immune to disruption. -[3545.22 --> 3549.22] And then similarly, moralism. -[3549.22 --> 3552.22] Moralism promises that if we're simply good enough, -[3553.22 --> 3557.22] and if we're good parents, if we're good citizens, if we're good Christians, -[3557.22 --> 3561.22] God will protect us from the worst of these things. -[3561.22 --> 3568.22] And like I said quietly, right, often without saying it out loud, -[3568.22 --> 3577.22] we too easily assume the luxury that tragedy belongs to someone else's story. -[3578.22 --> 3584.22] That early death or sudden loss or devastating disappointment will not interrupt ours. -[3584.22 --> 3587.22] But then it does. -[3588.22 --> 3591.22] Some of you know this intimately, personally. -[3592.22 --> 3594.22] It always eventually does. -[3595.22 --> 3599.22] And when it does, right, the ache breaks through. -[3599.22 --> 3606.22] And when it does, the fragile idols that we have hoped would keep us safe crumble. -[3609.22 --> 3611.22] That's what the teacher wants to expose this morning. -[3611.22 --> 3613.22] The teacher's not being cruel, he's being honest. -[3614.22 --> 3618.22] One of the reasons why I love the book of Ecclesiastes, -[3618.22 --> 3622.22] and why it's so good in a time and moment like this one, -[3622.22 --> 3626.22] is that it names the ache that we spend our lives trying to ignore. -[3628.22 --> 3630.22] Right? We are not in control. -[3630.22 --> 3632.22] This life will not bow to us. -[3632.22 --> 3638.22] And I really think that there is something compelling about the brutal honesty of this book. -[3638.22 --> 3648.22] And this ache that we feel in those moments, right, is a doorway to the text of Ecclesiastes 9, -[3648.22 --> 3651.22] and I think to the wisdom that God wants us to give. -[3652.22 --> 3655.22] Now this text, maybe you noticed it as we read it, -[3655.22 --> 3658.22] it's kind of broken down into three sections. -[3658.22 --> 3666.22] I'm going to follow that breakdown, but I'm going to put the first section and the third section -[3666.22 --> 3670.22] before the middle section, which I think is the main point of the teacher. -[3670.22 --> 3673.22] So we will build to the middle section, which is the main point. -[3673.22 --> 3682.22] So the teacher begins, we can look at verse one, with a profoundly true and reality-defining sentence. -[3682.22 --> 3683.22] He says, -[3683.22 --> 3694.22] Now let's be clear, that's sovereignty language, right? -[3694.22 --> 3699.22] That is the rule and reign of God over all creation language. -[3699.22 --> 3705.22] That's not fate, that's not randomness, that's not detached providence even. -[3705.22 --> 3710.22] This is the personal, covenantal hand of God. -[3710.22 --> 3715.22] And the teacher here is affirming what all of Scripture teaches. -[3715.22 --> 3722.22] That our lives unfold not in chaos, but under the comprehensive rule of our Creator. -[3722.22 --> 3729.22] But he pairs that, right, he pairs that with a jarring truth. -[3729.22 --> 3735.22] No one knows whether love or hate awaits them. -[3735.22 --> 3740.22] All share a common destiny, the righteous and the wicked, the good and the bad, the clean and the unclean, -[3740.22 --> 3744.22] those who offer sacrifices and those who don't. -[3744.22 --> 3752.22] In other words, right, the outward shape of your days, the outward shape of your lives, -[3752.22 --> 3756.22] whether it's love or hate, prosperity or adversity, pleasure or pain, -[3756.22 --> 3763.22] cannot be used as a barometer of God's attitude towards you. -[3763.22 --> 3772.22] Right, this is a direct challenge to the simple moralistic theology and mechanistic idea of providence. -[3772.22 --> 3779.22] Right, that kind of idea of God's work in the world is actually more similar to the fates of Greek mythology. -[3779.22 --> 3788.22] Right, or more in line with the sort of manifesting that exists in contemporary culture. -[3788.22 --> 3792.22] The teacher comes with a hammer blow to all of that. -[3792.22 --> 3795.22] Right, all share a common destiny. -[3795.22 --> 3797.22] Verse 2 and in verse 5. -[3797.22 --> 3806.22] The living know that they will die. -[3806.22 --> 3814.22] Death is the one fixed point in the human story. -[3814.22 --> 3824.22] And the teacher is forcing us to sit with that reality because death exposes what we worship in life. -[3825.22 --> 3827.22] Follow me with that. -[3827.22 --> 3833.22] Right, we tend to live as if the one thing that is certain will never come, death, -[3833.22 --> 3839.22] and that the many things that are uncertain, health, wealth, stability, success, -[3839.22 --> 3844.22] we treat as though they are guaranteed. -[3844.22 --> 3848.22] The teacher is refusing to let us do that. -[3848.22 --> 3854.22] Right, he dismantles every human attempt to secure life apart from God. -[3854.22 --> 3861.22] Right, death is the teacher's megaphone reminding us that we are creatures and not God. -[3861.22 --> 3866.22] And this for us is grace. -[3866.22 --> 3872.22] Because when our illusions collapse, so do our idolatries. -[3872.22 --> 3877.22] Right, verse 1 to 6 show us that death is certain. -[3877.22 --> 3884.22] Verse 11 and 12 show us that everything else is uncertain. -[3884.22 --> 3889.22] The teacher lists here things that we assume are reliable. -[3889.22 --> 3891.22] That the fastest runner will win the race. -[3891.22 --> 3893.22] That the strongest soldier will triumph. -[3893.22 --> 3895.22] That the wise will excel. -[3895.22 --> 3897.22] The skilled will succeed. -[3897.22 --> 3900.22] And the knowledgeable will rise to the top. -[3900.22 --> 3903.22] But then he says at the end of verse 11, -[3903.22 --> 3906.22] Time and chance happen to them all. -[3906.22 --> 3910.22] And again, this is not randomness. -[3910.22 --> 3917.22] This is what we might call the doctrine of providence, but from the underside. -[3917.22 --> 3920.22] Right, the Heidelberg Catechism, -[3920.22 --> 3923.22] Confession of Faith of the Reformed Churches from the 16th century. -[3923.22 --> 3930.22] The Heidelberg Catechism defines and calls providence both God's almighty and ever-present power -[3930.22 --> 3938.22] and also the truth that all things come to us not by chance but by his fatherly hand. -[3938.22 --> 3946.22] Right, the teacher's point is not that life is chaotic, but it rather is about perspective on life. -[3946.22 --> 3950.22] Right, and his point here is that from the human vantage point, -[3950.22 --> 3956.22] outcomes cannot be predicted or guaranteed or controlled. -[3956.22 --> 3960.22] From our perspective, limited and short-sighted as it is, -[3960.22 --> 3964.22] we cannot see the big picture or make the meaning. -[3964.22 --> 3972.22] And so, we think, either there is no meaning and it's all chance, -[3972.22 --> 3978.22] or we think, I must have done something wrong and I deserve this punishment from God. -[3978.22 --> 3981.22] Now hear this. -[3981.22 --> 3991.22] In an attempt, pious though it may be, in an attempt to save God from randomness, -[3991.22 --> 3995.22] what we end up doing is forcing Him into our view of the world. -[3997.22 --> 4002.22] Right, in an attempt to save God from a seeming lack of control, -[4002.22 --> 4005.22] we end up making Him vindictive. -[4005.22 --> 4008.22] But the teacher's clear, right? -[4008.22 --> 4010.22] It's neither of these things. -[4010.22 --> 4012.22] Because, like the teacher is saying, -[4012.22 --> 4015.22] no amount of wisdom, strength, planning, or virtue can guarantee success. -[4015.22 --> 4020.22] Right, disaster, in verse 12, falls unexpectedly upon them. -[4020.22 --> 4025.22] Again, this is another blow to the modern idol of mastery. -[4025.22 --> 4029.22] Right, we think that if we refine our habits and read the right books, -[4029.22 --> 4033.22] if we optimize our schedules, if we secure the right insurances, -[4033.22 --> 4037.22] if we obey the right spiritual principles, we can build a predictable life. -[4037.22 --> 4041.22] But Ecclesiastes is simply saying, you can't. -[4041.22 --> 4048.22] And that reality forces a confrontation. -[4048.22 --> 4054.22] That reality forces a confrontation about where you place your hope. -[4054.22 --> 4060.22] A biblical anthropology, a biblical way of understanding what it means to be human, -[4060.22 --> 4065.22] insists that human beings, even as redeemed creatures though we may be, -[4065.22 --> 4070.22] human beings remain finite, remain dependent, remain limited. -[4070.22 --> 4073.22] And Ecclesiastes wants to make this abundantly clear. -[4073.22 --> 4075.22] We do not rule the world. -[4075.22 --> 4078.22] Only God does. -[4078.22 --> 4083.22] And so between these two hammer blows, -[4083.22 --> 4088.22] the certainty of death and the uncertainty of life, -[4088.22 --> 4093.22] stands the surprising center, culmination of this passage. -[4093.22 --> 4096.22] Verse 7, right? -[4096.22 --> 4100.22] Go, eat your food with gladness, drink your wine with a joyful heart, -[4100.22 --> 4102.22] enjoy life with your wife whom you love. -[4102.22 --> 4106.22] Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might. -[4106.22 --> 4109.22] Now again, to be clear, this isn't escapism, this isn't hedonism, -[4109.22 --> 4113.22] this isn't the same as eat and drink for tomorrow we die. -[4113.22 --> 4116.22] What this is, is creaturely humility. -[4116.22 --> 4117.22] Right? -[4117.22 --> 4121.22] To receive life not as something to control, -[4121.22 --> 4125.22] but something to enjoy under the hand of God. -[4125.22 --> 4127.22] That's the second part of verse 7, right? -[4127.22 --> 4131.22] Go, eat your food with gladness and drink your wine with a joyful heart, -[4131.22 --> 4135.22] for God has already approved what you do. -[4136.22 --> 4140.22] One of the authors that I've been reading in this series, David Gibson, -[4140.22 --> 4147.22] says that verse 7 of chapter 9 is Ecclesiastes in a nutshell. -[4147.22 --> 4152.22] Because this verse smashes our desire to be God. -[4152.22 --> 4156.22] Right? We want omniscience and omnipotence and omnipresence. -[4156.22 --> 4161.22] We want to know it all and to control it all and to secure it all and to understand it all. -[4161.22 --> 4163.22] But God says, you are not me. -[4164.22 --> 4166.22] And that is good news for you. -[4167.22 --> 4169.22] Your life is a gift. -[4169.22 --> 4171.22] It's not a project. -[4172.22 --> 4177.22] The teacher is naming these particular idolatries that we are tempted to worship. -[4177.22 --> 4182.22] And when we worship God's gifts, they no longer remain gifts. -[4182.22 --> 4185.22] Right? They start demanding what they cannot give. -[4185.22 --> 4192.22] When we make God's good gifts into ultimate things, they twist on us. -[4192.22 --> 4202.22] And so the man who makes sex his God finds that normal pleasures stop satisfying -[4202.22 --> 4207.22] and he ends up chained to the darker distortions of that that offer no joy. -[4208.22 --> 4212.22] To the woman who makes her family her God, -[4212.22 --> 4216.22] she discovers that she cannot live up to her own expectations. -[4216.22 --> 4221.22] And when your children falter and fail, you're left hollow and disappointed. -[4222.22 --> 4228.22] Right? Every gift when worshiped betrays you. -[4229.22 --> 4233.22] They promise joy and they deliver emptiness. -[4233.22 --> 4241.22] C.S. Lewis put this profoundly and sharply in a way that really only he can. -[4241.22 --> 4242.22] He says, -[4242.22 --> 4249.22] Natural loves that are allowed to become gods do not remain loves. -[4249.22 --> 4255.22] They're still called so, but can in fact become complicated forms of hatred. -[4255.22 --> 4265.22] Make marriage your God and you will hate your spouse. -[4265.22 --> 4268.22] Make career your God and you will hate work. -[4268.22 --> 4271.22] And Ecclesiastes says, -[4271.22 --> 4275.22] Receive these gifts of food and drink and marriage and work, -[4275.22 --> 4280.22] not as gods, not as guarantees, not as sources of identity, -[4280.22 --> 4285.22] but as daily graces from God who is sovereign and wise and good. -[4285.22 --> 4288.22] And let's be really clear, this isn't a downgrade. -[4288.22 --> 4293.22] Right? This is the path to freedom. -[4293.22 --> 4297.22] Look, this is what we have been seeing. -[4297.22 --> 4302.22] Right? Death is certain and everything else is uncertain. -[4302.22 --> 4309.22] Our idolatries cannot protect us and our attempts at mastery crumble beneath the weight of reality. -[4309.22 --> 4314.22] And when we admit this, we are left with needing to find a better way to live. -[4314.22 --> 4321.22] And the teacher is directing us away from control and towards trust, -[4321.22 --> 4324.22] away from illusion and towards humility, -[4324.22 --> 4332.22] away from self-made security and towards the God who holds all our days in his hand. -[4333.22 --> 4335.22] Right? This is the teacher's point. -[4335.22 --> 4336.22] This is what we're looking at. -[4336.22 --> 4342.22] This is the big idea that life is unpredictable and death comes to us all. -[4342.22 --> 4349.22] The wise response then is to receive every moment as a gift from God. -[4349.22 --> 4354.22] Receive every moment as a gift from God. -[4354.22 --> 4357.22] And that changes every moment. -[4360.22 --> 4361.22] Here's the good news. -[4361.22 --> 4371.22] Ecclesiastes is not the last word that God speaks into the world of unpredictability and death. -[4371.22 --> 4375.22] Do you notice that when I finished reading the text and we said, -[4375.22 --> 4378.22] this is the word of the Lord and you're supposed to say, thanks be to God. -[4378.22 --> 4379.22] It was very half-hearted. -[4379.22 --> 4380.22] Thanks be to God. -[4381.22 --> 4384.22] Like, is this really what we want to give God thanks for? -[4385.22 --> 4386.22] Right? -[4386.22 --> 4387.22] But this isn't the last word. -[4388.22 --> 4390.22] Ecclesiastes is an honest word. -[4391.22 --> 4395.22] And so, thanks be to God for the honesty of God's word that exposes the idols of our heart. -[4395.22 --> 4396.22] Yes, it is an honest word. -[4396.22 --> 4400.22] But it's an honest word that prepares us for the living word. -[4401.22 --> 4403.22] Who steps into the world with us. -[4404.22 --> 4405.22] Right? -[4405.22 --> 4413.22] Jesus Christ entered life, a life that was marked by the very same uncertainties that Ecclesiastes names -[4413.22 --> 4416.22] and that you and I stand in the midst of. -[4416.22 --> 4419.22] And Jesus lived with no earthly guarantees. -[4420.22 --> 4421.22] That is, he had no wealth. -[4421.22 --> 4422.22] He had no status. -[4422.22 --> 4424.22] He had no worldly power. -[4424.22 --> 4425.22] Right? -[4425.22 --> 4426.22] He knew hunger. -[4426.22 --> 4427.22] He knew fatigue. -[4427.22 --> 4428.22] He knew danger. -[4428.22 --> 4429.22] He knew betrayal. -[4429.22 --> 4430.22] He knew being misunderstood. -[4431.22 --> 4436.22] And in all of that, in all of that, he lived the life I should have lived. -[4436.22 --> 4438.22] He did so perfectly. -[4438.22 --> 4441.22] And by his grace, he did so for me. -[4441.22 --> 4443.22] And he did so for you. -[4444.22 --> 4451.22] And yet, even though he was perfectly obedient, even though he was innocent and spotless, -[4451.22 --> 4456.22] he walked straight into the reality of that same destiny which overtakes us all. -[4457.22 --> 4458.22] Right? -[4458.22 --> 4460.22] He entered death itself. -[4460.22 --> 4464.22] And not because it overtook him, but because he willingly took it on. -[4464.22 --> 4467.22] He died the death that I deserve. -[4467.22 --> 4470.22] Now, why would he do all that? -[4470.22 --> 4479.22] Well, first, right, and foremost, to break the power of the one certainty that terrifies -[4479.22 --> 4487.22] us most, and then to redeem the world of the unpredictability that we live in. -[4487.22 --> 4496.22] The book of Hebrews says that Jesus shared in our humanity so that by his death, he might -[4496.22 --> 4500.22] break the power of him who holds the power of death. -[4500.22 --> 4501.22] Right? -[4501.22 --> 4506.22] Because Jesus died and rose, death is no longer a wall that we run into. -[4506.22 --> 4510.22] Death is actually the way through to joining him. -[4510.22 --> 4514.22] Joining Jesus in his death is actually life. -[4514.22 --> 4520.22] And because he lives, you can be sure that every seemingly random and unpredictable moment -[4520.22 --> 4523.22] is actually held in his hand. -[4523.22 --> 4532.22] If even death has to succumb to his victory, surely to all the troubles, trials, and tribulations of your life. -[4532.22 --> 4539.22] And this is the transformation that Ecclesiastes anticipates, but cannot itself produce. -[4539.22 --> 4540.22] Right? -[4540.22 --> 4546.22] Because ultimately, it's only the gospel, it's only Jesus that can free us from the need to control our own lives. -[4546.22 --> 4553.22] And only the Spirit then can loosen our grip on the idols that we think will save us. -[4553.22 --> 4557.22] Only union with Christ can make us creaturely again. -[4557.22 --> 4561.22] Content in our dependence. -[4561.22 --> 4570.22] Joyful to receive and humble enough to enjoy what God gives without demanding more. -[4570.22 --> 4579.22] In Jesus, the fear of death is replaced by hope. -[4579.22 --> 4584.22] The ache for certainty is replaced with trust. -[4584.22 --> 4585.22] Right? -[4585.22 --> 4591.22] The frenetic drive to secure our own future is replaced by a confidence that, as we read in Colossians 3, -[4591.22 --> 4596.22] your life is now hidden with Christ in God. -[4596.22 --> 4597.22] Right? -[4597.22 --> 4599.22] This is how grace heals us. -[4599.22 --> 4606.22] Christ takes the one certainty we dread and turns it into our deepest security. -[4606.22 --> 4610.22] So that we can finally live the way that Ecclesiastes is inviting us to live. -[4610.22 --> 4616.22] As a people who receive life rather than try to grasp it from different places. -[4616.22 --> 4619.22] Trying to steal a moment here and there. -[4622.22 --> 4624.22] And so how do we live this way? -[4624.22 --> 4625.22] Right? -[4625.22 --> 4629.22] Receiving life rather than trying to control it. -[4629.22 --> 4636.22] Ecclesiastes gives us a surprisingly ordinary answer. -[4636.22 --> 4647.22] The Christian life, lived under the sovereignty of God and in the grace of Christ, looks like faithfulness in the small things. -[4647.22 --> 4656.22] I'm going to end our time this morning with four ways that this passage shapes our daily obedience. -[4656.22 --> 4659.22] Four ways this passage shapes faithfulness in the small things. -[4659.22 --> 4668.22] And so first, receive today as a gift, not as a guarantee. -[4668.22 --> 4670.22] Receive today as a gift, not as a guarantee. -[4670.22 --> 4672.22] The teacher says in verse 7, -[4672.22 --> 4676.22] Go, eat your food with gladness and drink your wine with a joyful heart. -[4676.22 --> 4677.22] Right? -[4677.22 --> 4678.22] That's not indulgence. -[4678.22 --> 4679.22] That's worship. -[4680.22 --> 4688.22] Every meal, every breath, every mundane joy is a reminder that you are not God and you do not need to be. -[4688.22 --> 4691.22] And so slow down. -[4691.22 --> 4693.22] Give thanks. -[4693.22 --> 4698.22] Name the grace that's in front of you. -[4698.22 --> 4705.22] I was talking with a friend this week and she's not Christian. -[4705.22 --> 4715.22] She mentioned that she felt like she was crashing after the super chaotic season of life that she's been in the last number of months. -[4715.22 --> 4720.22] And that in that crash, she's really been struggling to find motivation again. -[4720.22 --> 4727.22] And in our conversation, I reminded her, you know, it's okay to rest. -[4727.22 --> 4730.22] It's okay to slow down. -[4730.22 --> 4731.22] Right? -[4731.22 --> 4738.22] When we define ourselves by our busyness and we try to keep up that busyness so that we don't lose ourselves, -[4738.22 --> 4745.22] we often miss resting in God's goodness. -[4745.22 --> 4750.22] When today is received as a gift, we remember to rest. -[4750.22 --> 4759.22] Number two, practice contentment by refusing to worship God's gifts. -[4759.22 --> 4762.22] Enjoy your spouse. -[4762.22 --> 4763.22] Enjoy your work. -[4763.22 --> 4764.22] Enjoy your children. -[4764.22 --> 4765.22] Enjoy your community. -[4765.22 --> 4769.22] Enjoy your sports and your hobbies and your recreations. -[4769.22 --> 4772.22] But do not ask them to save you. -[4772.22 --> 4773.22] Right? -[4773.22 --> 4779.22] As Lewis warned, natural loves that are allowed to become gods become forms of hatred. -[4779.22 --> 4790.22] The Spirit is forming us into a people who enjoy deeply because we no longer demand ultimacy from anything but Christ. -[4790.22 --> 4797.22] And we stop, when we stop looking to these lesser glories, glories though they are, -[4797.22 --> 4804.22] when we stop looking to these lesser glories for meaning or value and start rightly glorifying God, -[4804.22 --> 4811.22] the weight of glory that belongs to Him no longer crushes these other things and people around us. -[4811.22 --> 4821.22] But in fact, instead, in this beautiful inversion gives us a firm foundation on which and in which we can face all the struggles of life. -[4821.22 --> 4822.22] Right? -[4822.22 --> 4834.22] Contentment with God's gifts enables community in God's gifts and perhaps even enables community as God's gift. -[4834.22 --> 4837.22] 3. -[4837.22 --> 4841.22] Do all your work with all your might. -[4841.22 --> 4846.22] Not to secure your future, but to honor the one who holds it. -[4846.22 --> 4847.22] Right? -[4847.22 --> 4848.22] We read in verse 10, -[4848.22 --> 4851.22] Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might. -[4851.22 --> 4857.22] You cannot control the outcomes, but you can be faithful in the moment. -[4857.22 --> 4863.22] You cannot govern providence, but you can live your life as a vocation to God. -[4863.22 --> 4866.22] You can live your life before the face of God. -[4866.22 --> 4870.22] The theological way of saying that in Latin is corum Deo. -[4870.22 --> 4871.22] Right? -[4871.22 --> 4872.22] Before the face of God. -[4872.22 --> 4878.22] In the Bible, one of the words for worship is also the word for work. -[4878.22 --> 4885.22] So in Genesis, when you read, God has given them to work and to take care of the garden. -[4885.22 --> 4891.22] And then later on in Exodus, when you read Moses and God talking and God says, -[4891.22 --> 4896.22] When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain. -[4896.22 --> 4898.22] Work and worship. -[4898.22 --> 4900.22] Same Hebrew word. -[4900.22 --> 4907.22] Work becomes worship when the results belong to God. -[4907.22 --> 4908.22] God. -[4908.22 --> 4918.22] I want you to listen carefully to this, what I think is a beautiful saying from John Calvin. -[4918.22 --> 4922.22] It was written in the 16th century. -[4922.22 --> 4924.22] You'll see part of it on the screen. -[4924.22 --> 4927.22] There's a little bit of an introduction. -[4927.22 --> 4936.22] Since we are consecrated and dedicated to God, we should no longer think, speak, plan, or act without aiming at His glory. -[4936.22 --> 4943.22] What He has made holy cannot be turned to common use without deeply offending Him. -[4943.22 --> 4953.22] And if we are not our own, but belong to the Lord, then it is plain both what we must avoid and toward what end our whole life must be directed. -[4953.22 --> 4959.22] We are not our own, therefore our own reason or will must not rule our decisions. -[4959.22 --> 4965.22] We are not our own, therefore let us not make it our aim to pursue what pleases our sinful nature. -[4965.22 --> 4972.22] We are not our own, therefore as far as is possible, let us forget ourselves and everything that is ours. -[4972.22 --> 4977.22] On the other hand, we are God's, therefore let us live and die for Him. -[4977.22 --> 4981.22] We are God's, therefore let His wisdom and His will govern all our actions. -[4981.22 --> 4990.22] We are God's, therefore to Him as our only true end, let every part of our life be directed. -[4990.22 --> 4995.22] We are God's, therefore, we are God's, therefore, we are God's. -[4995.22 --> 5002.22] So our work is our worship and our worship is what we were made to do. -[5002.22 --> 5013.22] And then lastly, four, let the certainty of Christ's resurrection free you from the fear of death. -[5013.22 --> 5019.22] Yes, this is a practical way and truth coming out of this text. -[5019.22 --> 5029.22] Because Jesus has gone ahead of you into the grave and has come out the other side, you no longer have to cling anxiously to life. -[5029.22 --> 5034.22] You can step into each day with courage and humility and joy. -[5034.22 --> 5040.22] When death is no longer the great threat, life becomes the great gift. -[5040.22 --> 5047.22] And as Christians, we don't have to fear death. -[5047.22 --> 5055.22] But nor do we have to rush towards it or accelerate its coming to us. -[5055.22 --> 5067.22] In a strange and maybe paradoxical way, people who are choosing death early do so because they are afraid of how death may come later. -[5067.22 --> 5071.22] But we don't have to be afraid. -[5071.22 --> 5076.22] Right now or then, we don't have to make decisions based on fear. -[5076.22 --> 5078.22] Especially fear of the unknown. -[5078.22 --> 5084.22] Because to God, right, to God everything is known. -[5084.22 --> 5087.22] And He knows your everything. -[5087.22 --> 5091.22] And He is with you in everything. -[5091.22 --> 5107.22] In a world where people chase control and end up crushed by our own expectations, Ecclesiastes is offering a better way. -[5107.22 --> 5115.22] The grounded, joyful, humble life of a creature who trusts your Creator. -[5116.22 --> 5120.22] Yes, life is unpredictable and death comes to us all. -[5120.22 --> 5129.22] But because God is faithful and because Jesus has conquered death, we can receive every moment as a gift from God. -[5129.22 --> 5136.22] And so, we live, we worship, and we go with Him. -[5136.22 --> 5137.22] Amen? -[5137.22 --> 5138.22] Let's pray together. -[5138.22 --> 5146.22] Let's pray together. -[5146.22 --> 5159.22] Lord God, may we see this life as your gift to us. -[5159.22 --> 5169.22] Lord Jesus, may we see new life as your gift of grace to us who believe. -[5169.22 --> 5178.22] And so, in this life and with this new life, may we go forward from this place not afraid. -[5178.22 --> 5185.22] May we go forward from this place knowing that you go with us. -[5185.22 --> 5188.22] That you have prepared a way for us. -[5188.22 --> 5197.22] May we go forward knowing that every moment of every day is held in your hands. -[5197.22 --> 5207.22] And so, may we go forward with the sure conviction of your promise and your presence. -[5207.22 --> 5212.22] Strengthen our hearts of faith, we pray. -[5212.22 --> 5213.22] Our hearts of faith is truly important and gracious. -[5213.22 --> 5215.22] worry发展示 his water and heavenly quiets our thoughts on our throne. -[5215.22 --> 5216.22] Great confession오�ly. -[5216.22 --> 5217.22] Amen. -[5217.22 --> 5226.22] And that in those moments where we cannot see, that we might believe and know, and we might trust that you are with us. -[5226.22 --> 5230.80] and lastly, in those moments where even that is hard, -[5231.88 --> 5235.04] we give you thanks for these men and women, -[5235.18 --> 5236.32] these brothers and sisters, -[5236.78 --> 5240.16] these fellow family members of God -[5240.16 --> 5242.78] who journey life with us, -[5243.24 --> 5245.44] to uphold us and support us, -[5245.56 --> 5248.68] and to speak a word of hope and encouragement -[5248.68 --> 5250.00] when we hear nothing. -[5251.68 --> 5254.30] For all these gifts, we give you thanks, Jesus. -[5254.30 --> 5256.50] It's in your name that we pray. -[5257.44 --> 5257.84] Amen. -[5258.66 --> 5259.24] Amen. -[5284.30 --> 5314.30] -[5314.30 --> 5316.30] Amen. -[5316.30 --> 5319.30] Through it all, through it all, -[5320.24 --> 5322.30] my eyes are on you, -[5323.26 --> 5328.30] and it is well with me. -[5328.30 --> 5344.66] Far be it from me to not be free, -[5344.66 --> 5351.06] even when my eyes can't see, -[5351.06 --> 5357.44] and this mountain that's in front of me -[5357.44 --> 5363.80] will be thrown into the midst of the sea. -[5363.80 --> 5368.80] Through it all, through it all, -[5368.80 --> 5369.74] through it all, -[5369.74 --> 5372.44] my eyes are on you, -[5372.44 --> 5375.12] through it all, -[5375.26 --> 5376.26] through it all, -[5376.32 --> 5378.36] it is well. -[5379.94 --> 5382.24] Through it all, -[5382.40 --> 5383.68] through it all, -[5383.68 --> 5386.56] my eyes are on you, -[5386.56 --> 5389.26] and it is well, -[5389.26 --> 5393.68] it is well. -[5393.68 --> 5395.68] So let go, -[5396.78 --> 5397.68] my soul, -[5398.54 --> 5401.60] and trust in Him, -[5401.82 --> 5403.66] the ways that wind -[5403.66 --> 5407.68] still knows His name. -[5407.68 --> 5409.82] So let go, -[5409.82 --> 5411.82] my soul, -[5412.82 --> 5415.72] and trust in Him, -[5415.72 --> 5417.80] the ways that wind -[5417.80 --> 5421.82] still knows His name. -[5422.82 --> 5423.82] So let go, -[5423.82 --> 5425.82] my soul, -[5426.82 --> 5429.82] and trust in Him, -[5430.14 --> 5431.88] the ways that wind -[5431.88 --> 5435.82] still knows His name. -[5435.82 --> 5438.76] The ways that wind -[5438.76 --> 5442.82] still knows His name. -[5442.82 --> 5449.82] It is well -[5449.82 --> 5457.82] with my soul. -[5457.82 --> 5464.82] It is well -[5464.82 --> 5471.82] with my soul. -[5473.82 --> 5478.82] It is well -[5478.82 --> 5485.82] with my soul. -[5485.82 --> 5492.82] It is well -[5492.82 --> 5499.82] with my soul. -[5499.82 --> 5506.82] It is well -[5506.82 --> 5512.82] with my soul. -[5512.82 --> 5518.82] It is well -[5518.82 --> 5520.82] with my soul. -[5520.82 --> 5533.82] It is well -[5533.82 --> 5539.82] with my soul. -[5539.82 --> 5546.82] It is well -[5546.82 --> 5548.82] It is well -[5548.82 --> 5552.82] with my soul. -[5552.82 --> 5554.82] It is well -[5554.82 --> 5558.82] It is well -[5558.82 --> 5559.82] with my soul. -[5559.82 --> 5571.82] It is well -[5571.82 --> 5572.82] with my soul. -[5572.82 --> 5573.82] It is well -[5573.82 --> 5580.82] It is well with my soul -[5580.82 --> 5593.82] Through it all, through it all -[5593.82 --> 5596.82] My eyes are on you -[5596.82 --> 5600.82] Through it all, through it all -[5600.82 --> 5605.82] Through it all, through it all -[5605.82 --> 5609.82] Through it all, through it all -[5609.82 --> 5612.82] My eyes are on you -[5612.82 --> 5619.82] And it is well with me -[5630.82 --> 5638.82] Before you go, go with this invitation -[5639.82 --> 5641.82] And with this promise -[5641.82 --> 5642.82] First the invitation -[5642.82 --> 5645.82] If you would like to meet someone for prayer -[5645.82 --> 5648.82] Reflecting on where you need God to show up in your life -[5648.82 --> 5650.82] Or celebrating where God has shown up in your life -[5650.82 --> 5652.82] There will be someone here at the front -[5652.82 --> 5655.82] Who would love to meet with you and connect with you in prayer -[5655.82 --> 5658.82] Second, go with the promise of God -[5658.82 --> 5661.82] The promise that God himself goes with you -[5661.82 --> 5664.82] Into the valley of the shadow of death -[5664.82 --> 5666.82] Into the dark night of the soul -[5666.82 --> 5669.82] Into whatever moment or days you are leaving here -[5669.82 --> 5673.82] And walking towards God is with you -[5673.82 --> 5677.82] Receive his blessing for that journey of life and faith -[5678.82 --> 5681.82] God go before you to lead you -[5681.82 --> 5683.82] God go behind you to protect you -[5683.82 --> 5685.82] God go beneath you to support you -[5685.82 --> 5688.82] And God go beside you to befriend you -[5689.82 --> 5692.82] Do not be afraid -[5693.82 --> 5695.82] Let the blessing of God come upon you today -[5695.82 --> 5696.82] Do not be afraid -[5696.82 --> 5701.82] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord -[5702.82 --> 5703.82] Amen -[5711.82 --> 5712.82] God go beside you -[5712.82 --> 5716.82] Amen -[5716.82 --> 5721.82] This is my DVD -[5721.82 --> 5722.82] per 2 -[5722.82 --> 5737.88] yrb -[5737.88 --> 5753.74] I am weak, but you are mighty. Hold me with your powerful hand. -[5753.74 --> 5771.74] Bread of heaven, bread of heaven, feed me now and evermore. -[5771.74 --> 5784.74] Oh, and now the crystal fountain where the healing waters flow. -[5784.74 --> 5795.74] Let the fire and cloudy pillar lead me on my journey through. -[5795.74 --> 5805.70] Strong deliver, strong deliver, ever be my strength and shield. -[5807.28 --> 5812.66] Ever be my strength and shield. -[5812.66 --> 5827.66] When I tread the verge of Jordan, in my anxiousness of sight. -[5827.66 --> 5838.66] Death of death and hell's destruction, let me stay on Gain and Stine. -[5838.66 --> 5849.66] Songs of praises, songs of praises, I will ever sing to you. -[5849.66 --> 5855.66] I will ever sing to you. -[5855.66 --> 5866.66] Songs of praises, songs of praises, I will ever sing to you. -[5866.66 --> 5874.66] I will ever sing to you. -[5874.66 --> 5894.66] I will ever sing to you. -[5894.66 --> 5924.64] Thank you. -[5924.66 --> 5937.22] Thank you. -[5954.66 --> 5984.64] Thank you. -[5984.66 --> 6014.64] Thank you. -[6014.66 --> 6044.64] Thank you. -[6044.66 --> 6074.64] Thank you. -[6074.66 --> 6104.64] Thank you. -[6104.66 --> 6134.64] Thank you. -[6134.66 --> 6164.64] Thank you. -[6164.66 --> 6194.64] Thank you. -[6194.66 --> 6224.64] Thank you. -[6224.66 --> 6254.64] Thank you. -[6254.66 --> 6284.64] Thank you. -[6284.66 --> 6314.64] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, November 2, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, November 2, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3bb507537370b916108c5638ba8a9cb0cd391350..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, November 2, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,96 +0,0 @@ -• Greeting to the audience -• Reading from Romans 11:33-36 -• Singing hymns and worship songs -• Invocation and praise to God -• Reflection on the silence of nature and the world's inability to thank God -• Praise to God's almighty power and holiness -• Confession of sin and seeking forgiveness -• Expression of dependence on God for guidance and righteousness -• Declaration of Christ as a source of holiness and freedom from sin -• Acknowledgement of ongoing need for God's presence and help in times of temptation. -• The speaker quotes 1 John 1:8-9, discussing forgiveness and confession -• Jody and Ariel Gonzales' situation in Mexico is mentioned, including a severe rain storm that damaged their property -• A fundraising effort is launched to help the Gonzales family with costs associated with repairing their property -• Donations for Jody and Ariel can be sent via e-transfer, check, or cash -• Designated offerings are also collected for the church budget and Gateway of Hope community center -• The speaker thanks the congregation for their generosity -• The concept of Jesus Christ as a savior and living hope -• Overcoming death and sin through faith in Jesus -• Praise and worship, including repetition of phrases such as "hallelujah" and "my living hope" -• A sermon or discussion about salvation and its significance -• A question-and-answer session with children, focusing on the idea of a "treasure chest" of things that bring joy and happiness -• Possessions and material things are not necessary for happiness -• True happiness comes from having Jesus in one's heart -• The congregation is encouraged to stand up and pray together -• Prayers are offered for various individuals and groups, including the elderly, those with health concerns, new mothers, and persecuted Christians -• The ordination of Pastor Kevin is celebrated and he is asked to bring God's word to the congregation. -• The pursuit of money as a false gospel -• The idea that just a little more money will bring security, happiness, and satisfaction -• The constant hustle for financial gain and the pressure to define success by total income rather than character -• The speaker's personal struggle with desiring "just a little bit more" financially -• The speaker discusses how the pursuit of money and material possessions does not satisfy human needs. -• Citing Ecclesiastes 5:10, they argue that loving money leads to a never-ending cycle of greed and want. -• Studies show that once basic needs are met, added income does not increase happiness but rather desire for more. -• The love of money is identified as the root of all kinds of evil in 1 Timothy 6:10. -• A second false gospel is also discussed, which is the accumulation of things bringing joy and comfort. -• This false gospel is perpetuated through constant upgrades and watching others accumulate possessions online. -• Accumulation of material possessions for joy and contentment -• The story of the free market economy as a dominant narrative in modern society -• The influence of consumerism on individual values and behavior -• The danger of confusing gratitude with greed -• The fleeting nature of material wealth and its inability to bring lasting happiness -• The pressure and stress that come from accumulating and maintaining possessions -• The cycle of consumption, anxiety, and desire for more -• The idea that one's legacy is tied to what they leave behind -• The danger of defining oneself by external markers of success and possessions -• Building legacies through wealth and possessions is a common pursuit -• Many try to cheat death or delay aging through technology and self-care -• The passage from Ecclesiastes argues that these pursuits are ultimately meaningless and lead to emptiness -• The accumulation of wealth and possessions can actually bind individuals and enslave them to their efforts -• Ultimately, everyone comes into the world naked and departs the same way -• The gift of joy comes from God, not wealth or possessions -• Joy can be found in any situation, regardless of wealth or circumstances -• True joy is rooted in gratitude to Jesus and trust in his gospel -• Contentment and strength come from God, as demonstrated by Paul's testimony in Philippians 4:11-13 -• The focus should not be on the gifts we have, but on God who gives us those gifts -• Pursuing wealth and material possessions can enslave us -• Resting in God's care allows us to enjoy what we have without being enslaved -• The pursuit of Christ, not wealth, meets our eternal needs -• Jesus' sacrifice and resurrection defeated sin and provides salvation -• True joy is found in knowing we belong to him and having hope in Jesus -• Chasing material goods can only lead to temporary emptiness, while true joy is found eternally in the kingdom of God. -• Legacy and faith in God as secured through Jesus Christ -• Joy found in trusting God, not what is gained -• Living out faith legacy in a culture with false gospels -• Developing rhythms of resistance to combat empty promises -• Spiritual disciplines such as fasting and silence as acts of resistance -• Redirecting focus to joy found in Jesus -• The act of lament in a polarized culture is an act of resistance. -• Self-love and community are acts of resistance in an individualistic culture. -• Worship is an act of resistance in a nationalistic culture over country. -• Confession is an act of resistance in a success-oriented appearance-driven culture. -• Prayer is an act of resistance in a rationalistic data-driven calculated culture. -• Sabbath is an act of resistance in a 24-7 restless work-addicted anxious presence culture. -• Practicing acts of resistance helps to cut through false gospels and point to the true gospel of Jesus Christ. -• Joy comes from trusting God, not from what we gain or possess. -• resisting false gospels -• discipleship and pointing others to Christ -• contrast between life apart from God and with him -• influence of worldly pursuits on individuals -• prayer for release from worldly distractions and focus on God's joy -• eternal salvation and reign in the new earth -• practicing rhythms of resistance to worldly gospels -• Worship and praise of God -• Joy and strength from the Lord -• Protection and guidance from the Lord -• Dependence on the Lord's mercy and grace -• Trust in the Lord through all circumstances -• Avoiding waver or fear -• The joy of the Lord is strength -• Praying for strength and joy in Jesus Christ -• Distinguishing between false gospels and God's love and hope -• Seeking prayer partners and fellowship -• Receiving God's blessing -• Expressing gratitude to God for creation, love, and guidance -• Praise and gratitude expressed towards an unknown entity or person. -• Repeated thank you statements with no discernible topic or context change. \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, November 2, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, November 2, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6b2b160e8abd6b16aec579cffc591650fae90535..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, November 2, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1698 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 392.00] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 422.00] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 452.00] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 482.00] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 512.00] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 542.00] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 572.00] Thank you. -[572.00 --> 574.00] Thank you. -[574.00 --> 576.00] Thank you. -[576.00 --> 578.00] Thank you. -[578.00 --> 580.00] Thank you. -[580.00 --> 582.00] Thank you. -[582.00 --> 584.00] Thank you. -[584.00 --> 586.00] Thank you. -[586.00 --> 588.00] Thank you. -[588.00 --> 590.00] Thank you. -[590.00 --> 592.00] Thank you. -[592.00 --> 594.00] Thank you. -[594.00 --> 596.00] Thank you. -[596.00 --> 598.00] Thank you. -[598.00 --> 600.00] Thank you. -[600.00 --> 602.00] Thank you. -[626.00 --> 628.00] Good good. -[628.00 --> 630.00] Good good. -[630.00 --> 632.00] Good. -[632.00 --> 634.00] Good. -[634.00 --> 636.00] Good. -[636.00 --> 638.00] Good. -[638.00 --> 642.00] Good. -[642.00 --> 644.00] Good. -[672.00 --> 674.00] Thank you. -[702.00 --> 704.00] Good. -[732.00 --> 734.00] Thank you. -[762.00 --> 764.00] Good. -[764.00 --> 766.00] Good. -[766.00 --> 768.00] Good. -[768.00 --> 770.00] Good. -[770.00 --> 772.00] Good. -[792.00 --> 793.00] Good. -[793.00 --> 794.00] Good. -[794.00 --> 796.00] Good. -[796.00 --> 798.00] Good. -[798.00 --> 800.00] Good. -[800.00 --> 802.00] Good. -[822.00 --> 823.00] Good night. -[823.00 --> 824.00] And then finally. -[824.00 --> 826.00] Good. -[826.00 --> 828.00] Good night. -[828.00 --> 829.00] Good good night. -[829.00 --> 830.00] Good. -[830.00 --> 831.00] Good night. -[831.00 --> 833.50] Good night. -[833.50 --> 834.00] And then finally. -[834.00 --> 842.00] That way, -[842.00 --> 851.96] this morning. God greets us with these words, grace and peace to you from him who is and who -[851.96 --> 858.08] was and who is to come and from the seven spirits that are before his throne and from Jesus Christ -[858.08 --> 863.58] who is the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead and the ruler of the kings of the earth. -[864.34 --> 868.26] Amen. As God has greeted us this morning, please take a moment to greet those around you. -[872.00 --> 874.00] Amen. -[902.00 --> 912.74] Good morning. -[914.00 --> 921.44] Our call to worship this morning comes from Romans 11 verses 33 to 36. -[921.44 --> 929.68] Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God. How unsearchable his judgments -[929.68 --> 938.50] and his paths beyond tracing out. Who has known the mind of the Lord or who has been his counsel? -[939.26 --> 947.52] Who has ever given to God that God should repay them? For from him and through him and for him -[947.52 --> 952.20] are all things. To him be the glory forever. Amen. -[952.20 --> 982.18] Let us sing and honor, glory and power, be unto the ancient of days. -[982.18 --> 991.18] From every nation, all of creation, bowed for the ancient of days. -[991.18 --> 1000.18] Every time in heaven and earth shall bear your glory, every each of our children grow. -[1000.18 --> 1001.18] In worship you will be the kingdom of the ancient of days. -[1001.18 --> 1005.18] In worship you will be the ancient of days. -[1005.18 --> 1013.18] And your kingdom shall not pass away, O ancient of days. -[1013.18 --> 1020.18] Let us sing and honor, glory and power, be unto the ancient of days. -[1020.18 --> 1027.18] From every nation, all of creation, bowed for the ancient of days. -[1027.18 --> 1033.18] From every nation, all of creation, bowed for the ancient of days. -[1033.18 --> 1040.18] Every time in heaven and earth shall declare your glory, every each of our children grow. -[1040.18 --> 1042.18] Every nation, all of creation, bowed for the ancient of days. -[1042.18 --> 1043.18] All of creation, bowed for the ancient of days. -[1043.18 --> 1044.18] In worship you will be the ancient of days. -[1044.18 --> 1049.18] In worship you will be the exalted, O God. -[1049.18 --> 1055.18] And your kingdom shall not pass away, O ancient of days. -[1055.18 --> 1059.18] Sing and honor, glory and power, be unto the ancient of days. -[1059.18 --> 1062.18] In worship you will be the same, all of creation. -[1062.18 --> 1064.18] Your kingdom shall bring over all the earth. -[1064.18 --> 1069.18] Sing to the ancient of days. -[1069.18 --> 1074.18] For none then compare to your ratchless blood. -[1074.18 --> 1079.18] Sing unto the ancient of days. -[1079.18 --> 1083.18] Every time in heaven and earth shall declare your glory, -[1083.18 --> 1086.56] For the enemy shall bow at your throne. -[1086.94 --> 1091.52] In worship you will be exalted, O God. -[1092.04 --> 1098.56] And your kingdom shall now pass away, O ancient of days. -[1106.56 --> 1107.82] Come on, come on. -[1108.24 --> 1108.70] Yay! -[1113.18 --> 1141.70] All my dear, O soul be God. -[1141.70 --> 1152.64] Faithful through the ages, almighty, most holy Lord. -[1152.94 --> 1156.58] Glorious, almighty God. -[1156.58 --> 1169.20] The peace of the field, the birds of the air, are silent to call out your name. -[1169.20 --> 1174.48] The air has no voice, and I have no choice. -[1174.74 --> 1179.00] To thank Him, find God unashamed. -[1179.54 --> 1184.12] Let the rocks be silent for one more day. -[1184.48 --> 1189.26] Let the whole world sing out when the people sing. -[1189.26 --> 1196.26] Almighty, most holy God. -[1196.26 --> 1207.26] Faithful through the ages, almighty, most holy Lord. -[1207.26 --> 1212.26] Glory is, almighty God. -[1212.26 --> 1213.26] Lord, who is my god. -[1213.26 --> 1214.26] Amen. -[1214.26 --> 1215.26] Amen. -[1215.26 --> 1216.26] Amen. -[1216.26 --> 1217.26] Amen. -[1217.26 --> 1218.26] Amen. -[1218.26 --> 1219.26] Amen. -[1219.26 --> 1220.26] Amen. -[1220.26 --> 1221.26] Amen. -[1221.26 --> 1223.66] The Lord will cover the earth. -[1224.18 --> 1228.82] When His Spirit dwells, He's pleased in His wealth, -[1229.12 --> 1231.92] and the hopeless and longer builder. -[1233.60 --> 1238.26] He will break the leash of death, it will have no sin. -[1238.66 --> 1243.36] The prisoners of free join the tents and sing. -[1245.74 --> 1250.92] Almighty, most holy God, -[1251.26 --> 1256.50] faithful to the angels, almighty, -[1257.36 --> 1261.26] most holy Lord, -[1261.70 --> 1266.40] glorious, almighty God. -[1268.50 --> 1273.68] Please be seated as we come to a time of confession. -[1273.96 --> 1275.20] And pray with me, please. -[1281.26 --> 1284.14] Holy God, You see into our hearts. -[1285.14 --> 1286.12] You see our sins. -[1287.12 --> 1288.72] You see our true selves, -[1289.56 --> 1291.26] our true thoughts and deeds, -[1291.38 --> 1292.98] which we try to hide from others. -[1293.76 --> 1295.86] Sins we might even think we can hide from You. -[1297.20 --> 1299.56] There are sins we commit daily without even thinking, -[1299.76 --> 1302.78] and are so ingrained in us that we can hardly name them. -[1303.62 --> 1304.46] Lord, we need You. -[1305.12 --> 1306.22] We need Your forgiveness, -[1306.62 --> 1309.40] so we come to You now in a time of quiet, -[1309.56 --> 1311.06] personal confession of our sins. -[1311.06 --> 1312.50] Amen. -[1312.50 --> 1313.80] Amen. -[1313.86 --> 1315.76] aster. -[1315.76 --> 1316.58] Amen. -[1319.08 --> 1319.86] Amen. -[1320.30 --> 1320.62] Amen. -[1320.62 --> 1322.62] Amen. -[1350.62 --> 1352.62] Amen. -[1380.62 --> 1385.44] Without you, I'm all alone. -[1387.20 --> 1393.44] You're the one that guides my heart. -[1397.06 --> 1399.52] Lord, I need you. -[1399.68 --> 1403.74] Oh, I need you. -[1403.74 --> 1410.24] Every hour I need you. -[1410.62 --> 1416.54] My one defense, my righteousness. -[1417.54 --> 1422.00] Oh, God, now I need you. -[1426.26 --> 1432.92] When sin runs deep, your grace is full. -[1432.92 --> 1436.12] Your grace is found. -[1436.62 --> 1439.64] It's where you are. -[1439.64 --> 1441.64] Where you are. -[1442.94 --> 1445.56] Lord, I am free. -[1446.56 --> 1453.02] Holiness is Christ in me. -[1453.02 --> 1454.56] May God. -[1456.02 --> 1458.56] Lord, I am free. -[1458.56 --> 1464.48] Holiness is Christ in me. -[1464.48 --> 1470.40] Lord, I need you. -[1470.40 --> 1471.40] Lord, I need you. -[1471.40 --> 1475.40] Oh, I need you. -[1475.40 --> 1481.40] Every hour I need you. -[1481.40 --> 1485.32] My one defense. -[1485.32 --> 1487.32] My righteousness. -[1487.32 --> 1493.32] Oh, God, now I need you. -[1493.32 --> 1502.24] Teach my song to rise to you. -[1502.24 --> 1508.24] When temptation comes my way. -[1508.24 --> 1510.16] When I cannot stand. -[1510.16 --> 1511.16] When I cannot stand. -[1511.16 --> 1513.16] I'll fall on you. -[1513.16 --> 1519.16] Jesus, you're my hope and stay. -[1519.16 --> 1522.42] When I cannot stand. -[1522.42 --> 1524.16] I'll fall on you. -[1524.16 --> 1530.16] Jesus, you're my hope and stay. -[1530.16 --> 1533.08] Lord, I need you. -[1533.08 --> 1535.08] Oh, I need you. -[1535.08 --> 1537.08] Oh, I need you. -[1537.08 --> 1541.08] Oh, I need you. -[1541.08 --> 1547.08] Every hour I need you. -[1547.08 --> 1550.28] My one defense. -[1550.28 --> 1550.32] My one defense. -[1550.32 --> 1553.20] My righteousness. -[1553.20 --> 1558.28] Oh, God, now I need you. -[1558.28 --> 1562.06] Oh, I need you. -[1562.06 --> 1566.20] Oh, I need you. -[1566.20 --> 1572.32] Every hour I need you. -[1572.32 --> 1575.52] My one defense. -[1575.52 --> 1578.52] My righteousness. -[1578.52 --> 1584.52] Oh, God, now I need you. -[1584.52 --> 1588.24] You're my one defense. -[1588.24 --> 1591.32] My righteousness. -[1591.32 --> 1596.56] Oh, God, now I need you. -[1596.56 --> 1602.30] You're my one defense. -[1602.32 --> 1605.52] You're my one defense. -[1605.52 --> 1607.40] These are your words of assurance. -[1608.12 --> 1614.94] People of God, we find hope and assurance of the forgiveness of our sins in 1 John 1, -[1615.34 --> 1616.20] where we read, -[1616.94 --> 1621.96] If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. -[1622.44 --> 1631.48] But if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. -[1631.48 --> 1632.48] Please stand. -[1632.48 --> 1633.48] Please stand. -[1633.48 --> 1634.48] Please stand. -[1635.48 --> 1636.48] Please stand. -[1636.48 --> 1637.48] Please stand. -[1637.48 --> 1638.48] Please stand. -[1638.48 --> 1639.48] Please stand. -[1639.48 --> 1640.48] Please stand. -[1640.48 --> 1641.48] Thank you. -[1641.48 --> 1643.48] Amen. -[1671.48 --> 1683.58] Heir of salvation, purchase of God, born of His Spirit, washing His blood. -[1683.58 --> 1695.36] This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all that they long. -[1695.36 --> 1707.42] This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all that they long. -[1710.42 --> 1722.00] Perfect submission, perfect delight, visions of rapture and albers of my sight. -[1722.00 --> 1733.92] Angels descending, bring from above, echoes of mercy, whispers of love. -[1734.40 --> 1745.50] This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all that they long. -[1745.50 --> 1757.42] This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all that they long. -[1757.42 --> 1766.34] Perfect submission, always at rest. -[1766.88 --> 1772.24] High in my Savior, I'm happy and blessed. -[1772.78 --> 1777.42] Watching and waiting, looking above. -[1777.42 --> 1783.42] Filled with His goodness, lost in His blood. -[1784.62 --> 1795.42] This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all that they long. -[1795.42 --> 1819.20] This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all that they long. -[1819.20 --> 1831.20] This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all that they long. -[1831.20 --> 1861.18] This is my song, praising my Savior all that they long. -[1861.18 --> 1863.68] During those designated offerings, I would like to point out to you -[1863.68 --> 1865.60] the email that was sent around this week, -[1866.22 --> 1869.64] concerning what's befallen Jody and Ariel Gonzales, -[1869.64 --> 1871.58] our missionary village family in Mexico. -[1871.62 --> 1873.36] As you've probably read, -[1873.36 --> 1876.96] they had bought a property that they were going to move their home on to. -[1877.14 --> 1881.28] Before they could move, a severe rain storm brought down -[1881.28 --> 1885.42] a retaining wall and filled their property with debris. -[1885.42 --> 1891.12] debris. So Jody and Ariel are very thankful that they had not yet moved to that property -[1891.12 --> 1896.88] and they're also thankful that the landlord that they have is currently willing to have -[1896.88 --> 1901.70] them stay where they are. But of course this brings huge costs to Jody and Ariel. First -[1901.70 --> 1906.60] of all now they have to pay two rents so to speak. One for their current property that -[1906.60 --> 1911.04] they're still on and also then payments for the property that they bought. And then of -[1911.04 --> 1916.98] course there's excavating fees, there's labor costs, there's building costs. So they -[1916.98 --> 1921.12] figure that all of that to remediate everything and resettle is going to cost -[1921.12 --> 1927.12] them about $30,000. And of course that's quite a bit of money for them. So if you -[1927.12 --> 1931.86] could help out in any way that'd be great. The email that we sent to the -[1931.86 --> 1937.38] membership has a way of sending via e-transfer. Make sure that when you send -[1937.38 --> 1940.92] e-transfer that you actually send the money to the church and then on the -[1940.92 --> 1946.80] memo put C10. C10 is the giving agency for Jody and Ariel. You can also put money -[1946.80 --> 1952.08] in the offering bag. You can write a check and then make that check out to -[1952.08 --> 1957.58] the church and then the memo line write down for C10. And of course there's -[1957.58 --> 1961.74] always cash that you can give. Put that in an envelope. There's envelopes in the -[1961.74 --> 1967.14] chairs in front of you and mark that C10 for Jody and Ariel. Our designated -[1967.14 --> 1972.02] offerings today are for the budget and then also our special offering is for -[1972.02 --> 1977.04] Gateway of Hope. So for the budget if you wish to give to that do the same thing as -[1977.04 --> 1982.56] for Jody and Ariel. Write a check. Make sure it's written to Langley Emanuel and then -[1982.56 --> 1987.42] mark it budget. Or if you use cash and then use the envelope setter and the chairs -[1987.42 --> 1993.80] in front of you and mark it for the budget. Gateway of Hope is a community -[1993.80 --> 2000.56] center run by the Salvation of Army here in Langley off the bypass and it is a -[2000.56 --> 2005.54] community center for the vulnerable sector of our population here in Langley. -[2005.54 --> 2012.42] Gateway of Hope provides shelter, food, counseling and most of all they provide hope. -[2012.42 --> 2018.72] Okay and they do this all in the name of Jesus. So do give generously today even as -[2018.72 --> 2024.20] we have all been generously blessed this past week. Thank you. -[2042.42 --> 2043.66] Easter Влад if watching! -[2043.66 --> 2047.72] Tour de Stratote -[2047.72 --> 2052.30] If 고�ρ -[2052.30 --> 2057.30] Should -[2057.30 --> 2060.58] gonna -[2060.58 --> 2064.30] ka -[2064.30 --> 2070.30] through the darkness -[2070.30 --> 2073.72] of loving kindness -[2073.72 --> 2076.38] Lord, through the shadows -[2076.38 --> 2079.30] of my soul -[2079.30 --> 2082.30] Lord, it's written -[2082.30 --> 2085.30] the end is written -[2085.30 --> 2088.18] Jesus Christ -[2088.18 --> 2091.18] my living hope -[2094.30 --> 2097.24] who could imagine -[2097.24 --> 2100.36] so great a mercy -[2100.36 --> 2103.36] a heart with problems -[2103.36 --> 2106.68] such thunders raise -[2106.68 --> 2109.66] the God of angels -[2109.66 --> 2112.38] sent out from glory -[2112.38 --> 2114.98] to bear my sin -[2114.98 --> 2118.18] and bear my shame -[2118.18 --> 2121.10] the cross has folded -[2121.10 --> 2124.10] I am forgiven -[2124.10 --> 2126.98] the King of kings -[2126.98 --> 2130.32] calls me his home -[2130.32 --> 2133.16] beautiful Savior -[2133.16 --> 2136.16] I'm yours forever -[2136.16 --> 2139.04] Jesus Christ -[2139.04 --> 2142.04] my living hope -[2142.04 --> 2144.92] hallelujah -[2144.92 --> 2145.92] hallelujah -[2145.92 --> 2149.18] praise the one who set me free -[2149.18 --> 2151.10] hallelujah -[2151.10 --> 2155.10] death has lost its grip on me -[2155.10 --> 2158.18] you have broken every chain -[2158.18 --> 2161.12] and salvation is not made -[2161.12 --> 2162.00] Jesus Christ -[2162.00 --> 2166.00] my living hope -[2166.00 --> 2168.00] hallelujah -[2168.00 --> 2172.92] praise the one who set me free -[2172.92 --> 2174.00] hallelujah -[2174.00 --> 2178.80] death has lost its grip on me -[2178.80 --> 2181.76] you have broken every chain -[2181.76 --> 2184.68] and salvation in your name -[2184.68 --> 2186.56] Jesus Christ -[2186.56 --> 2189.56] my living hope -[2189.56 --> 2190.56] Jesus Christ -[2190.56 --> 2191.56] my living hope -[2191.56 --> 2195.56] then hear the morning -[2195.56 --> 2198.56] that sealed the promise -[2198.56 --> 2201.56] your very body -[2201.56 --> 2204.90] began to breathe -[2204.90 --> 2207.78] out of the silence -[2207.78 --> 2209.78] the roaring lion -[2209.78 --> 2213.16] declare the grave -[2213.16 --> 2216.78] has no blame on me -[2216.78 --> 2219.78] and with the morning -[2219.78 --> 2222.88] that sealed the promise -[2222.88 --> 2225.54] your very body -[2225.54 --> 2227.96] began to breathe -[2227.96 --> 2229.84] hallelujah -[2229.84 --> 2231.84] death has lost its grip on me -[2231.84 --> 2232.84] the Lord -[2232.84 --> 2233.84] the roaring lion -[2233.84 --> 2236.92] declare the grave -[2236.92 --> 2239.84] has no blame on me -[2239.84 --> 2241.84] Jesus -[2241.84 --> 2242.84] yours -[2242.84 --> 2244.84] is the victory -[2244.84 --> 2247.84] hallelujah -[2247.84 --> 2249.84] hallelujah -[2249.84 --> 2255.56] praise the one who set me free -[2255.82 --> 2256.30] hallelujah -[2256.30 --> 2257.68] hallelujah -[2257.68 --> 2259.04] death -[2259.04 --> 2261.34] has lost its grip on me -[2261.34 --> 2264.30] you have broken every chain -[2264.30 --> 2267.24] and salvation in your name -[2267.24 --> 2267.76] Jesus Christ -[2270.36 --> 2272.52] my living hope -[2272.52 --> 2273.44] hallelujah -[2273.44 --> 2278.72] praise the one who set me free -[2278.72 --> 2280.48] hallelujah -[2280.48 --> 2284.58] death has lost its grip on me -[2284.58 --> 2287.46] You have broken every chain -[2287.46 --> 2290.34] There's salvation in your name -[2290.34 --> 2295.80] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[2295.80 --> 2301.68] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[2301.68 --> 2307.54] Oh God, you are my living hope -[2314.58 --> 2320.74] Good morning, everybody. -[2320.74 --> 2323.84] Can I have the kids all the way from preschool -[2323.84 --> 2326.82] all the way up to grade four come up to the front this morning? -[2334.50 --> 2335.60] Just have a seat. -[2335.60 --> 2344.56] Good morning. -[2345.12 --> 2348.40] I would like you guys to put your thinking caps on this morning -[2348.40 --> 2352.00] and think, if I gave you a big box -[2352.00 --> 2353.90] that looked like a treasure chest -[2353.90 --> 2357.92] what kind of things would you put inside of it? -[2359.80 --> 2361.22] What kind of things? -[2361.58 --> 2364.22] Just shout out some ideas, one at a time. -[2364.22 --> 2365.62] Pardon me? -[2366.62 --> 2367.26] Jewelry? -[2367.62 --> 2368.68] Maybe a frog. -[2369.34 --> 2369.86] Maybe. -[2369.96 --> 2370.98] A frog, maybe. -[2372.10 --> 2373.16] An orange? -[2374.08 --> 2374.62] A tablet. -[2375.00 --> 2376.08] Maybe a tablet? -[2379.14 --> 2380.18] A TV. -[2380.46 --> 2381.20] A TV? -[2382.48 --> 2386.12] All these things that we're putting in this treasure chest -[2386.12 --> 2386.90] Yes, Elizabeth. -[2388.08 --> 2388.64] Gems. -[2388.88 --> 2391.58] Yeah, all these things that we're putting in this treasure chest -[2391.58 --> 2394.22] Do we absolutely need it? -[2395.50 --> 2395.90] No? -[2396.10 --> 2397.26] Does it make us happy? -[2398.82 --> 2399.76] It can't? -[2399.84 --> 2400.08] What? -[2401.74 --> 2402.14] Yeah. -[2402.58 --> 2402.74] Yeah. -[2405.12 --> 2405.98] Could we... -[2405.98 --> 2406.80] Pardon me? -[2407.54 --> 2408.72] Yeah, you can put money in there. -[2408.78 --> 2408.92] Okay. -[2409.54 --> 2411.28] Could we live without it? -[2412.68 --> 2414.32] All the things that we're putting in? -[2414.32 --> 2416.62] Some of the stuff we can live without -[2416.62 --> 2420.86] Some we can't, depending if we put our Bible in there -[2420.86 --> 2424.94] If we put other things in there -[2424.94 --> 2426.32] Maybe food -[2426.32 --> 2428.12] Some things we can't live without -[2428.12 --> 2429.66] But what we're going to learn today -[2429.66 --> 2431.60] And I'm sure in congregation today -[2431.60 --> 2432.34] We're going to learn -[2432.34 --> 2434.52] That possessions -[2434.52 --> 2437.06] Or items like a TV -[2437.06 --> 2438.42] Chocolate -[2438.42 --> 2439.86] Jewelry -[2439.86 --> 2441.60] That we can live without -[2441.60 --> 2443.24] But to make us happy -[2443.24 --> 2446.32] Is we need to have Jesus in our hearts -[2446.32 --> 2447.44] Right? -[2447.92 --> 2448.40] Okay. -[2448.52 --> 2449.78] Everybody stand up -[2449.78 --> 2453.62] And we're going to face the congregation -[2453.62 --> 2456.20] And ready? -[2456.52 --> 2457.30] One, two, three -[2457.30 --> 2458.04] The Lord -[2458.04 --> 2459.20] We'll be with you -[2459.20 --> 2461.12] We'll be with you -[2461.12 --> 2461.30] We'll be with you -[2461.30 --> 2462.76] We'll be with you -[2462.76 --> 2463.26] Hi Mama -[2463.26 --> 2493.24] Thank you. -[2493.26 --> 2523.24] Thank you. -[2523.26 --> 2525.26] Thank you. -[2553.26 --> 2555.26] Thank you. -[2555.26 --> 2562.42] We have allowed the world to affect our lives by its concerns, its fears, and its falsehood. -[2563.18 --> 2565.76] Even our own hearts deceive us. -[2566.92 --> 2567.78] Forgive us, Lord. -[2568.70 --> 2572.20] Create in us clean hearts and a steadfast spirit. -[2573.54 --> 2578.36] Renew our minds so that we can be effective ambassadors for Jesus Christ. -[2578.36 --> 2585.12] Lord, we lift up to you members of our church family who are living with difficulties. -[2586.16 --> 2590.60] We pray for the elderly and those with health and mobility concerns. -[2591.60 --> 2595.20] Be with Clary's sister as she heals from a recent accident. -[2595.20 --> 2603.56] Give her patience and hope and enable her to experience your hand at work in this situation. -[2603.56 --> 2612.28] We pray for all the soon-to-be and all the new moms in our midst. -[2613.08 --> 2617.76] We pray for good health and rest as they care for these little ones. -[2617.76 --> 2624.34] Thank you, Lord, for families who are providing your love to those children that need love and support. -[2624.34 --> 2626.34] We pray for them. -[2626.34 --> 2633.30] We pray for Millie, infant daughter of James and Shana, as she undergoes surgery by your will this week. -[2634.26 --> 2640.20] Calm their hearts and bless the good work of the doctors and nurses at Children's Hospital. -[2640.20 --> 2643.64] We pray for those who are living with children and children, as she has been healing for their children. -[2643.64 --> 2647.42] We pray for those persecuted for your name. -[2648.16 --> 2651.18] We think of those in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. -[2652.20 --> 2654.96] Help them not to lose hope, but stand firm. -[2655.84 --> 2658.82] Give them courage and zeal to stand up for your name. -[2660.36 --> 2664.26] We give thanks for the ordination of Pastor Kevin this past week. -[2665.34 --> 2669.82] Bless Pastor Kevin, Nikki, and their girls as they minister among us. -[2671.06 --> 2676.00] And now, as Kevin brings your word to us, may we receive it in our hearts and our minds. -[2676.76 --> 2680.98] And by your Spirit, live it out in our lives and by our actions. -[2681.98 --> 2683.16] May your name be praised. -[2683.72 --> 2685.24] We ask this in Jesus' name. -[2685.84 --> 2686.12] Amen. -[2700.20 --> 2701.20] Amen. -[2701.20 --> 2702.20] Amen. -[2706.84 --> 2707.20] Amen. -[2707.20 --> 2707.66] Amen. -[2707.66 --> 2707.86] Amen. -[2707.86 --> 2708.30] Amen. -[2708.30 --> 2716.60] I'm sure many of you have experienced the joy of playing Monopoly with family and friends, right? -[2717.58 --> 2721.20] It always, the giggles in the room, you already know where we're going with this, -[2721.24 --> 2723.26] because it always starts out innocent enough. -[2723.26 --> 2725.50] We all agree we're going to have fun. -[2725.72 --> 2729.94] We're going to count our pastel-colored money, and we're going to pretend that everyone's -[2729.94 --> 2730.94] going to play fair. -[2731.42 --> 2737.56] But give it 20 minutes, and suddenly Uncle Tim has three hotels locked up on boardwalk. -[2738.00 --> 2741.82] Your sister, who barely knows the rules, owns all of the railroads. -[2742.24 --> 2747.82] And you're stuck mortgaging Baltic Avenue just to survive another turn. -[2747.82 --> 2754.00] And then the moment comes when someone realizes there's no catching up. -[2755.06 --> 2756.94] You feel the injustice in the air. -[2757.10 --> 2761.34] Someone's thimble isn't going to make it around the board, pass, go one more time. -[2761.46 --> 2764.24] And they're just bitterly counting the pennies. -[2764.30 --> 2765.54] And sure enough, it happens. -[2766.60 --> 2768.40] A hand slams down on the board. -[2768.78 --> 2771.38] The little greenhouses go flying everywhere. -[2772.22 --> 2775.68] And the room, or the game story, doesn't end because someone won. -[2775.68 --> 2778.06] It ends because someone snapped. -[2779.64 --> 2786.18] In a game where the pursuit of wealth is the goal, I've heard many a Monopoly story ending -[2786.18 --> 2792.16] with a board on the ground and a bunch of losers just sitting around a peace-filled room, -[2792.66 --> 2794.30] wasting three hours of their life. -[2795.64 --> 2798.74] Well, the pursuit of wealth today is the focus of the teachers. -[2798.90 --> 2801.72] We continue our sermon series through Ecclesiastes. -[2801.72 --> 2806.76] I'm going to invite you all to open up your Bibles, or if you've got a Bible app on your phone, -[2807.76 --> 2809.00] feel free to open that as well. -[2809.30 --> 2813.90] And keep that text open today as we kind of reference it throughout this message. -[2814.30 --> 2819.52] We're going to look at Ecclesiastes 5, verses 10 to 20. -[2819.60 --> 2821.82] So Ecclesiastes 5, verses 10 to 20. -[2822.46 --> 2823.52] It says this. -[2823.52 --> 2827.80] Whoever loves money never has enough. -[2828.76 --> 2832.40] Whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. -[2833.32 --> 2835.44] This, too, is meaningless. -[2836.46 --> 2839.60] As goods increase, so do those who consume them. -[2839.74 --> 2844.40] And what benefit are they to the owners except to feast their eyes on them? -[2844.96 --> 2848.50] The sleep of a laborer is sweet, whether they eat little or much. -[2848.50 --> 2852.56] But as for the rich, their abundance permits them no sleep. -[2853.52 --> 2858.50] I have seen grievous evil under the sun, wealth hoarded to the harm of its owners, -[2858.62 --> 2861.08] or wealth lost through some misfortune, -[2861.64 --> 2864.72] so that when they have children, there is nothing left for them to inherit. -[2865.66 --> 2867.96] Everyone comes naked from their mother's womb, -[2868.04 --> 2871.22] and everyone comes, as everyone comes, so they depart. -[2872.08 --> 2877.80] They take nothing from their toil that they can carry in their hands. -[2878.16 --> 2880.02] This, too, is a grievous evil. -[2880.14 --> 2882.00] As everyone comes, so they depart. -[2882.00 --> 2884.72] And what do they gain since they toil for the wind? -[2885.68 --> 2891.46] All their days they eat in darkness with great frustration, affliction, and anger. -[2892.82 --> 2895.06] This is what I have observed to be good. -[2895.96 --> 2899.66] That it is appropriate for a person to eat, to drink, and to find satisfaction -[2899.66 --> 2906.06] in their toilsome labor under the sun during the few days of life God has given them. -[2906.52 --> 2907.62] For this is their lot. -[2907.62 --> 2913.34] Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions and the ability to enjoy them, -[2913.58 --> 2917.96] to accept their lot and be happy in their toil, this is a gift of God. -[2918.96 --> 2925.58] They seldom reflect on the days of their life because God keeps them occupied with gladness of heart. -[2926.14 --> 2927.38] This is the word of the Lord. -[2927.38 --> 2932.06] The pursuit of money. -[2932.06 --> 2932.10] The pursuit of money. -[2933.10 --> 2936.00] The accumulation of things. -[2936.84 --> 2938.74] And the desire for legacy. -[2938.74 --> 2946.58] We're going to look at three false gospels that the teacher highlights in this passage. -[2946.58 --> 2951.46] Three false gospels that our current world still pushes today. -[2952.20 --> 2959.88] And we're going to look at how these three false gospels actually hold us back from experiencing true joy. -[2959.88 --> 2963.46] And so without further ado, false gospel number one. -[2963.86 --> 2965.50] The pursuit of money. -[2966.24 --> 2970.04] The pursuit of money will meet your needs. -[2971.40 --> 2978.08] See, the pursuit of money is a false gospel because it's this ever-present whisper in your ear -[2978.08 --> 2985.98] that just a little bit more will finally bring the security or the happiness or the comfort or the peace -[2985.98 --> 2988.86] or the satisfaction that we're all craving. -[2988.86 --> 2995.68] Just a little bit more money and I can finally afford to buy a more reliable car -[2995.68 --> 2997.86] and then I don't have to deal with that rusty muffler anymore. -[2998.24 --> 3003.78] Just a little bit more and I can afford to go on a vacation where I can finally relax. -[3004.44 --> 3009.68] Just a little bit more money and I can pay off that student loan and then I can live a little easier. -[3010.46 --> 3015.84] Just a little bit more money and I can finally convince the bank to give me enough money for a mortgage -[3015.84 --> 3018.50] so I can enter into this crazy house market. -[3018.86 --> 3025.16] Just a little bit more money and I can finally pay off that mortgage and finally live a little more freely. -[3026.40 --> 3031.62] Just a little bit more money and I'll finally be confident enough in my retirement savings -[3031.62 --> 3034.86] so that I can live out the rest of my days and maybe help out my kids. -[3034.86 --> 3035.86] Just a little bit more. -[3035.86 --> 3038.02] Just a little bit more. -[3038.02 --> 3040.08] Just a little bit more. -[3040.08 --> 3048.90] The idea that just a little bit more money would help still permeates all of our lives I think. -[3049.64 --> 3051.28] We hear it from advertisement. -[3051.52 --> 3054.52] Just make a little bit more money and you'll be a little bit more secure. -[3054.82 --> 3055.96] We see it in our systems. -[3056.36 --> 3058.62] It shows up in the long hours of our work weeks. -[3058.70 --> 3060.06] The overtime that we work. -[3060.54 --> 3062.92] The constant hustle to get things done. -[3062.92 --> 3069.88] And we see it even how we define our success by our total incomes instead of our characters. -[3071.68 --> 3073.94] And I know for me personally we feel it too. -[3074.04 --> 3075.50] I feel it in my heart. -[3076.60 --> 3077.72] I've said this before. -[3077.82 --> 3079.06] Maybe I've said this to some of you. -[3079.34 --> 3081.88] I don't actually desire to be filthy rich. -[3082.22 --> 3085.08] Being filthy rich doesn't sound that appealing to me. -[3085.16 --> 3086.16] It sounds like too much pressure. -[3086.16 --> 3090.30] But I have said just a little bit more an awful lot in my life. -[3090.94 --> 3096.42] If I had just a little bit more I could pay off my mortgage and that would be very handy. -[3096.52 --> 3098.44] Then I could live out the rest of my days secure. -[3101.18 --> 3103.42] That's crossed my mind more than I'd like to admit. -[3105.10 --> 3110.44] Actually when I was going through this ordination process the first question the CRC candidacy committee -[3110.44 --> 3112.46] asked me in my interview for the denomination. -[3112.80 --> 3114.60] The first question they asked me was this. -[3114.60 --> 3118.26] They said are you doing this for the pay raise and the pension? -[3120.16 --> 3122.50] And at first that actually unsettled me a little bit. -[3122.92 --> 3125.62] I felt like they didn't have the right to answer. -[3125.70 --> 3126.30] Like who were they? -[3126.36 --> 3127.28] They didn't know who I was. -[3127.34 --> 3128.68] I didn't know who this person was. -[3129.86 --> 3132.02] If it were true I would have gone this route a lot earlier. -[3132.16 --> 3132.88] I'll tell you that. -[3135.64 --> 3137.94] And yet everyone wants just a little bit more. -[3138.02 --> 3141.48] And for me I actually needed to be asked and answer that question. -[3142.94 --> 3144.56] Am I pursuing this? -[3144.60 --> 3146.40] Am I pursuing the pay raise? -[3146.64 --> 3148.82] Am I pursuing just a little bit more? -[3149.46 --> 3150.84] Am I pursuing wealth? -[3153.32 --> 3154.98] Ecclesiastes 5.10 says, -[3155.98 --> 3158.94] Whoever loves money never has enough. -[3160.70 --> 3164.74] See the teacher points out that the pursuit of money it never satisfies. -[3165.06 --> 3168.62] The love of money leads to only more hunger for it. -[3168.62 --> 3172.82] That's why the richest people in our world, they still push for more. -[3173.20 --> 3174.46] They still want to make more. -[3174.52 --> 3177.66] They still want to have more because you can always have a little bit more. -[3177.66 --> 3183.96] And when people believe that the pursuit of money is going to meet all of their needs, -[3184.04 --> 3188.16] they're chaining themselves to the idea that money actually solves the problems. -[3188.16 --> 3194.22] But all it actually leads to is this endless cycle of greed and want. -[3194.22 --> 3201.60] Studies have actually shown this, that after one reaches a certain income level, your happiness plateaus. -[3201.92 --> 3206.10] Now there's a little bit of nuance to these studies and at the risk of oversimplifying it to make a point. -[3206.10 --> 3212.42] Once you make enough money to eat food every day, to meet your basic needs, and to sleep without fear at night, -[3213.38 --> 3216.28] added income actually doesn't increase your happiness anymore. -[3217.00 --> 3220.38] It doesn't increase your joy, just your desire for more money. -[3221.38 --> 3224.28] Again, just a little bit more, just a little bit more. -[3225.20 --> 3226.56] And Paul warns us of this too. -[3226.78 --> 3228.68] In 1 Timothy 6.10 it says this, -[3228.68 --> 3232.48] For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. -[3232.48 --> 3238.48] Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. -[3240.68 --> 3244.84] Notice it's not money itself that's evil, it's the love of money. -[3245.92 --> 3249.56] The constant pursuit of just a little bit more. -[3250.62 --> 3251.98] As if that will fix our problems. -[3252.46 --> 3254.72] That's the false gospel that grips us. -[3255.02 --> 3257.74] That binds us up instead of freeing us to truly live. -[3259.70 --> 3262.46] The second false gospel that our text highlights is this, -[3262.48 --> 3265.62] The accumulation of things will bring you joy. -[3266.90 --> 3271.60] The accumulation of things promises comfort and control. -[3272.46 --> 3276.58] Now this false gospel tells us that owning more will make life easier or happier. -[3277.62 --> 3281.38] In Western culture this shows up in constant upgrades, I think. -[3282.56 --> 3283.48] In constant upgrades. -[3283.56 --> 3287.44] We have newer phones, bigger houses, better cars, fuller closets. -[3287.44 --> 3292.42] But every purchase simply feeds the hunger for the next one. -[3292.80 --> 3294.40] We desire stuff, more stuff. -[3294.84 --> 3299.20] And look, I know this is a message we've probably heard over and over again. -[3299.34 --> 3302.22] But it bears repeating because this isn't changing. -[3303.42 --> 3309.24] It's so prevalent in our world that now we don't just want more stuff ourselves. -[3309.24 --> 3317.06] Our entertainment has even turned into watching people accumulate stuff. -[3317.06 --> 3325.30] There are TikTokers out there making boatloads of money simply unboxing content. -[3326.26 --> 3330.62] Literally opening boxes and being watched. -[3331.02 --> 3335.60] There's YouTubers making a living by showing all the stuff they bought. -[3335.60 --> 3345.42] There are hundreds of thousands of hours, maybe millions of hours, online of people videoing themselves opening boxes, -[3345.90 --> 3350.86] revealing the world of the new toys, the new gifts, the new gadgets, the new products that they've watched. -[3351.12 --> 3353.16] And people simply watch them accumulate. -[3354.16 --> 3358.56] So people can live vicariously through the experience of obtaining more product. -[3358.56 --> 3364.56] I found several videos online this week of people opening entire Amazon flats of spa products. -[3365.70 --> 3370.88] I found a two-hour video of someone opening up thousands of unopened Squishmallows. -[3371.18 --> 3373.38] And if you don't know what Squishmallows are, that's fine. -[3373.64 --> 3374.52] You don't need to know. -[3374.74 --> 3375.82] They're basically stuffies. -[3376.34 --> 3382.46] There is a YouTube channel out there that's dedicated to opening boxes of the newest tech. -[3382.52 --> 3386.98] And this channel has released, on its own, 2,400 videos. -[3386.98 --> 3390.56] And that's just the stuff I found in 90 seconds. -[3391.18 --> 3392.40] I've ruined my algorithm. -[3394.64 --> 3399.20] And if you're wondering who's watching this, so many people. -[3401.16 --> 3407.44] Unbox Therapy, that's the YouTube channel I just mentioned, it has over 24.8 million subscribers. -[3409.20 --> 3414.46] iJustine, who opens up boxes of lifestyle gadgets and more, she has over 7 million followers on her own. -[3414.46 --> 3417.12] And Ryan's World, which is actually stars a kid. -[3417.64 --> 3419.68] Now, it does some other things on this channel as well. -[3419.90 --> 3423.20] But he opens up a lot of toys and materials. -[3423.90 --> 3426.52] He has over 35 million followers. -[3428.10 --> 3430.82] And that's just three of thousands. -[3432.36 --> 3433.70] We want things. -[3435.76 --> 3436.94] We want things. -[3437.30 --> 3439.92] If we can't get them, we want to see them. -[3440.04 --> 3442.58] And we want to dream about what it would be like having them. -[3442.58 --> 3447.94] This accumulation of things is thought to bring us joy. -[3448.34 --> 3452.52] And maybe you're sitting here and you're hearing all of that and you're like, wow, that is bonkers. -[3453.36 --> 3455.44] Who's wasting their time watching videos like this? -[3455.48 --> 3456.52] This doesn't apply to me. -[3458.52 --> 3461.36] But how many of you are happy with your current iPhone right now? -[3464.04 --> 3466.04] Or the clothes that you wear every day? -[3466.04 --> 3469.70] Or the vehicle that you drive? -[3470.70 --> 3473.08] Or the camping trailer you've had for years? -[3474.46 --> 3477.04] Or the kitchen that you have with the old-timey cabinets? -[3479.30 --> 3483.02] How many of you saw a vacation that a friend went on and thought, ah, I could use that? -[3483.58 --> 3488.50] Or saw a picture of a friend in their backyard saying, ah, I wish my yard looked like that? -[3488.50 --> 3492.14] This mindset is widespread. -[3494.86 --> 3497.10] In one of her books, Susan White says this. -[3497.16 --> 3498.58] I've paraphrased it a little bit for length. -[3498.64 --> 3499.36] But she says this. -[3499.70 --> 3504.04] If there's an overarching story that explains reality in the late 20th century, -[3504.82 --> 3507.36] it is surely the story of the free market economy. -[3507.92 --> 3512.48] In the beginning of the story is the self-made, self-sufficient human being. -[3512.86 --> 3516.64] And at the end of the story is the big house, the big car, and the expensive clothes. -[3516.64 --> 3524.56] However, in the middle is the struggle for success, the greed, the getting and spending in a world -[3524.56 --> 3526.56] where there is no such thing as a free lunch. -[3527.96 --> 3535.86] Most of us have made this so thoroughly our story that we are hardly aware of its influence. -[3537.88 --> 3541.32] This is only more true in the 21st century as well. -[3541.32 --> 3549.12] This false gospel of accumulating more for our own good is embedded in the fabric of the world that we live in. -[3549.32 --> 3553.46] And we wrap ourselves in it every day and maybe don't even realize it. -[3555.06 --> 3558.88] But when we depend on the accumulation of things for our joy, -[3558.96 --> 3564.78] this false gospel takes root in our hearts and starts confusing gratitude with greed. -[3564.78 --> 3570.58] Our contentment then becomes dependent on the next Amazon box that ends up on our front porch. -[3572.50 --> 3575.34] But Proverbs 23, 4 to 5 tell us a different truth. -[3575.44 --> 3576.36] It warns us by saying, -[3576.74 --> 3578.76] Do not wear yourself out to get rich. -[3579.12 --> 3581.54] Riches sprout wings and fly off. -[3581.84 --> 3585.62] Do not seek the material because the material is fleeting. -[3585.62 --> 3589.70] The teacher knew this thousands of years ago, -[3590.00 --> 3595.94] even before the idea of online shopping, instant purchasing, and Jeff Bezos even existed. -[3597.02 --> 3599.38] In verses 11 and 12 of our text, he says this, -[3599.38 --> 3602.48] As goods increase, so do those who consume them. -[3602.74 --> 3607.32] And what benefit are they to the owners except to feast their eyes on them? -[3608.94 --> 3611.78] The sleep of a laborer is sweet whether they eat little or much, -[3611.86 --> 3615.34] but as for the rich, their abundance permits them no sleep. -[3616.62 --> 3618.64] For those who keep accumulating, -[3619.06 --> 3622.30] their only joy they have that the possessions brings them -[3622.30 --> 3625.62] is the fleeting pleasure of looking at them. -[3626.82 --> 3627.88] What a waste. -[3631.10 --> 3635.66] The desire for more things actually increases our pressures and our stresses too. -[3635.74 --> 3638.16] The teacher says with more wealth, with more possessions, -[3638.44 --> 3640.62] comes more stress and less sleep. -[3640.88 --> 3642.04] There's more bills to pay. -[3642.26 --> 3643.52] There's more things to care for. -[3643.62 --> 3645.00] There's more eyes on you. -[3645.00 --> 3646.72] Looking at you with what you've got. -[3646.88 --> 3649.72] There's more worry about losing what you have. -[3650.24 --> 3651.32] We accomplish things. -[3651.42 --> 3652.48] We accumulate stuff. -[3652.68 --> 3654.52] And once we have what we thought we wanted, -[3654.68 --> 3657.72] we need to work at keeping it and maintaining it, -[3657.72 --> 3659.08] and then not losing it, -[3659.24 --> 3660.34] and then updating it, -[3660.42 --> 3662.16] and then eventually upgrading it. -[3662.16 --> 3664.08] And the cycle keeps going. -[3666.08 --> 3670.28] The comfort our stuff brings usually just leads us to more anxiety -[3670.28 --> 3672.50] and an even greater desire for more, -[3672.88 --> 3675.54] which does not sound like a promise of joy, -[3675.72 --> 3678.14] but actually sounds like a promise that binds us. -[3678.14 --> 3685.52] The third false gospel that the teacher brings to our attention is this. -[3685.86 --> 3689.38] Your legacy is tied to what you leave behind. -[3689.38 --> 3694.26] The desire for our own legacy is real. -[3694.60 --> 3698.74] The desire promises us that we can outlive our own mortality -[3698.74 --> 3700.78] by curating a bunch of stuff, -[3700.98 --> 3705.00] be that possessions or successes or businesses or estates, -[3705.10 --> 3708.72] that they will exist and point to us after we die. -[3708.72 --> 3711.48] And our culture preaches the idea -[3711.48 --> 3713.54] that we are called to leave a mark in this world. -[3713.88 --> 3714.44] Leave a mark! -[3715.28 --> 3717.10] And that the legacy we leave behind -[3717.10 --> 3720.58] can be a permanent fixture in our little sphere of influence. -[3721.58 --> 3722.78] Your legacy matters, -[3722.98 --> 3724.72] so let's spend our time ensuring -[3725.30 --> 3728.92] that what we leave behind will enshrine us forever. -[3730.54 --> 3733.12] And this false gospel takes root in our hearts, -[3733.18 --> 3736.06] and we start believing that our value is dependent -[3736.06 --> 3737.68] on what we leave behind. -[3737.68 --> 3739.36] And so we build up businesses -[3739.36 --> 3741.38] that we hope will last the tail of time, -[3741.58 --> 3744.30] only to have them sold off or bought out -[3744.30 --> 3745.86] or absorbed by another company -[3745.86 --> 3747.26] as soon as we relinquish control. -[3747.88 --> 3750.94] We buy property in the hopes that generations of our family -[3750.94 --> 3753.90] will live on this for generations to come, -[3753.98 --> 3757.20] only to have housing markets and family dynamics -[3757.20 --> 3760.06] shift in ways that makes handing those off impossible. -[3760.86 --> 3763.06] We build up storehouses of goods, -[3763.50 --> 3765.90] hoping to pass off our things to future generations, -[3765.90 --> 3769.16] only to have those things get sorted through a thrift store -[3769.16 --> 3770.72] and donated to Goodwill -[3770.72 --> 3773.44] as they are replaced by the better and the newer. -[3776.32 --> 3778.04] Some, though, try to buck this trend. -[3778.12 --> 3780.84] Instead of passing off their legacies to other people, -[3780.92 --> 3782.42] they realize maybe that won't work, -[3782.98 --> 3784.62] so they try to cheat death themselves. -[3785.58 --> 3787.72] There's a good example of this happening right now -[3787.72 --> 3788.70] in Southern California, -[3788.70 --> 3790.32] a man named Brian Johnson. -[3790.32 --> 3791.50] He's a tech entrepreneur. -[3791.96 --> 3794.00] He's made hundreds of millions of dollars -[3794.00 --> 3794.84] with his tech company, -[3795.02 --> 3796.10] and with his wealth, -[3796.30 --> 3798.10] he has dedicated his life -[3798.10 --> 3800.86] and poured millions and millions of dollars -[3800.86 --> 3803.00] into a personal project called Blueprint, -[3803.42 --> 3805.12] where he hopes to be the first person -[3805.12 --> 3806.50] to live well beyond the age of 200. -[3807.52 --> 3809.40] The guy takes over 100 pills a day. -[3810.38 --> 3812.80] He follows a rigid diet and sleep routine. -[3812.80 --> 3816.04] He undergoes a range of experimental treatments, -[3816.24 --> 3818.64] all in an effort to extend his life -[3818.64 --> 3819.74] a little bit longer. -[3821.84 --> 3822.46] And this highlight, -[3823.24 --> 3824.38] or this example, sorry, -[3824.48 --> 3826.38] highlights a modern obsession -[3826.38 --> 3828.94] that we have with control and immortality, -[3829.02 --> 3830.72] the belief that with enough money -[3830.72 --> 3832.12] and enough technology, -[3832.32 --> 3834.68] we can outsmart even our own mortality, -[3835.24 --> 3837.80] and we can actually be our own legacies. -[3837.80 --> 3841.22] Now, obviously, I'm not saying -[3841.22 --> 3842.34] we're all Brian Johnsons, -[3843.12 --> 3844.20] but let's be honest. -[3844.76 --> 3846.60] How many of us live for these legacies? -[3847.66 --> 3849.80] How many of us hope that our businesses -[3849.80 --> 3851.62] or our properties or our possessions -[3851.62 --> 3854.06] will leave a mark in this world? -[3854.20 --> 3856.20] Or maybe we fear aging so much -[3856.20 --> 3858.48] that we pour a small fortune -[3858.48 --> 3860.00] into what we call self-care, -[3860.84 --> 3863.50] trying to hang on to some imagined state -[3863.50 --> 3865.18] of physical prowess -[3865.18 --> 3866.62] for just a little bit longer. -[3866.62 --> 3870.72] But death and aging, -[3870.84 --> 3871.86] they come for all of us, -[3871.90 --> 3873.26] no matter how many pills we take, -[3873.46 --> 3875.14] how many experiments we run, -[3875.34 --> 3876.72] how many surgeries we seek, -[3876.94 --> 3878.46] how much Botox we inject, -[3878.68 --> 3879.92] how much money we spend. -[3882.60 --> 3886.10] The marks that we try to leave on this world -[3886.10 --> 3887.40] often fade away. -[3888.30 --> 3891.66] And the marks we try to fade away on ourselves -[3891.66 --> 3892.96] always come back. -[3894.14 --> 3895.98] Because as the teacher says, -[3896.62 --> 3899.28] everything is meaningless under the sun. -[3900.58 --> 3903.02] Verse 14 and 15 of our passage tells us this. -[3903.40 --> 3903.52] It says, -[3903.52 --> 3905.56] I have seen grievous evil under the sun, -[3905.68 --> 3907.92] wealth hoarded to the harm of its owners, -[3907.92 --> 3910.14] or wealth lost through some misfortune, -[3910.50 --> 3911.74] so that when they have children, -[3911.86 --> 3913.24] there is nothing left for them to inherit. -[3913.84 --> 3915.84] Everyone comes naked from their mother's wounds, -[3916.10 --> 3917.26] and as everyone comes, -[3917.32 --> 3917.88] so they depart. -[3918.16 --> 3919.64] They take nothing from their toil -[3919.64 --> 3921.10] that they can carry in their hands. -[3922.54 --> 3923.90] The teacher is telling us -[3923.90 --> 3925.94] that if we are spending too much of our time -[3925.94 --> 3928.00] hoping that our wealth or our possessions -[3928.00 --> 3929.74] or our efforts will leave behind -[3929.74 --> 3930.76] some sort of legacy, -[3930.76 --> 3932.26] we're actually mistaken. -[3933.20 --> 3935.26] Because that pursuit ends in emptiness. -[3936.22 --> 3938.80] The pursuit of money captures our will. -[3939.76 --> 3943.48] Possession that we hoard just binds us -[3943.48 --> 3945.06] and our hands. -[3946.42 --> 3949.20] Legacy of materials chains us to toil. -[3949.20 --> 3953.20] And yes, this has been a depressing sermon so far, -[3953.26 --> 3954.08] but here's the shift. -[3955.44 --> 3957.20] Because the teacher points us -[3957.20 --> 3959.14] to where we can find our freedom. -[3961.22 --> 3963.90] In the gift of joy -[3963.90 --> 3966.54] that comes from our God. -[3968.26 --> 3969.86] Verses 18 to 20 -[3969.86 --> 3971.84] point us to the gift of joy -[3971.84 --> 3972.98] that can be found -[3972.98 --> 3974.04] not in wealth, -[3974.58 --> 3975.56] not in possessions, -[3975.92 --> 3977.24] not in a future legacy, -[3977.24 --> 3979.32] but in God himself. -[3980.52 --> 3981.22] The teacher says, -[3981.72 --> 3982.90] this is what I have observed -[3982.90 --> 3983.84] to be good. -[3984.88 --> 3985.80] That it is appropriate -[3985.80 --> 3987.12] for a person to eat -[3987.12 --> 3987.98] and drink -[3987.98 --> 3989.48] and to find satisfaction -[3989.48 --> 3990.64] in their toilsome labor -[3990.64 --> 3991.28] under the sun -[3991.28 --> 3993.64] during the few days of life -[3993.64 --> 3995.40] God has given them. -[3996.38 --> 3997.36] For this is their lot. -[3998.48 --> 3998.92] Moreover, -[3999.52 --> 4000.82] when God gives someone -[4000.82 --> 4001.74] wealth and possessions, -[4002.32 --> 4002.86] notice that, -[4003.06 --> 4004.18] when God gives someone -[4004.18 --> 4004.98] wealth and possessions -[4004.98 --> 4006.82] and the ability to enjoy them, -[4007.04 --> 4007.94] to accept their lot -[4007.94 --> 4008.96] and be happy in their toil, -[4009.32 --> 4011.18] this is a gift of God. -[4012.18 --> 4013.20] They seldom reflect -[4013.20 --> 4014.22] on the days of their life -[4014.22 --> 4016.06] because God keeps them -[4016.06 --> 4017.66] occupied with gladness -[4017.66 --> 4018.40] of their hearts. -[4020.32 --> 4021.98] Focus here is not on the fact -[4021.98 --> 4022.84] that joy comes from -[4022.84 --> 4023.76] the gifts we have, -[4023.84 --> 4025.08] but that joy comes from -[4025.08 --> 4026.16] God himself -[4026.16 --> 4027.08] who gives gifts. -[4028.06 --> 4029.14] We can find joy -[4029.14 --> 4030.14] in any situation, -[4030.42 --> 4031.34] whether we are rich -[4031.34 --> 4032.00] or poor, -[4032.00 --> 4032.88] whether we have little -[4032.88 --> 4033.68] or lots, -[4033.74 --> 4035.58] because joy is found -[4035.58 --> 4036.36] in Christ. -[4037.34 --> 4038.44] Not in what we have, -[4038.54 --> 4039.30] not in what we possess, -[4039.72 --> 4040.38] not in what we try -[4040.38 --> 4041.76] to accumulate or earn, -[4041.96 --> 4042.86] not in the legacy -[4042.86 --> 4043.96] we're trying to leave behind. -[4046.12 --> 4046.90] Paul, in his letter -[4046.90 --> 4047.60] to the Philippians, -[4047.98 --> 4049.44] just demonstrates this -[4049.44 --> 4050.76] beautifully in his testimony. -[4051.26 --> 4052.20] He says to the believers -[4052.20 --> 4053.20] in Philippians there, -[4053.50 --> 4054.30] in Philippians 4, -[4054.34 --> 4054.96] 11 to 13, -[4055.04 --> 4055.56] he says this, -[4056.24 --> 4056.64] Paul says, -[4056.74 --> 4057.88] I am not saying this, -[4058.00 --> 4058.70] and what he's not saying -[4058.70 --> 4059.54] was what he had just written, -[4059.54 --> 4060.84] I am not saying this -[4060.84 --> 4061.90] because I am in need, -[4062.68 --> 4063.60] for I have learned -[4063.60 --> 4064.72] to be content -[4064.72 --> 4066.12] wherever the circumstance. -[4067.10 --> 4068.42] I know what it is like -[4068.42 --> 4069.00] to be in need, -[4069.06 --> 4069.96] and I know what it is like -[4069.96 --> 4070.86] to have plenty. -[4071.16 --> 4072.28] I have learned the secret -[4072.28 --> 4073.50] of being content -[4073.50 --> 4075.96] in every situation, -[4076.28 --> 4077.30] whether well-fed -[4077.30 --> 4078.20] or hungry, -[4078.50 --> 4079.56] whether living in plenty -[4079.56 --> 4080.72] or in want. -[4080.92 --> 4082.82] I can do all this -[4082.82 --> 4083.86] through him -[4083.86 --> 4085.20] who gives me strength. -[4086.52 --> 4087.64] And that's referencing -[4087.64 --> 4088.36] Nehemiah -[4088.36 --> 4089.58] in the Old Testament -[4089.58 --> 4090.54] who was reminding -[4090.54 --> 4091.58] God's people -[4091.58 --> 4092.52] after exile -[4092.52 --> 4093.72] that the joy -[4093.72 --> 4094.80] of the Lord -[4094.80 --> 4096.12] is their strength. -[4097.34 --> 4098.30] The joy -[4098.30 --> 4099.20] of the Lord -[4099.20 --> 4100.22] is your strength. -[4102.86 --> 4103.62] See, true joy -[4103.62 --> 4104.74] is rooted in gratitude -[4104.74 --> 4105.36] to Jesus -[4105.36 --> 4106.50] and trust -[4106.50 --> 4107.38] in his gospel. -[4108.40 --> 4109.28] This should change -[4109.28 --> 4110.22] how we view our money -[4110.22 --> 4111.22] and our stuff -[4111.22 --> 4112.18] and our legacies -[4112.18 --> 4113.66] because when we release -[4113.66 --> 4114.90] our grasp, -[4115.00 --> 4115.18] sorry, -[4115.28 --> 4116.00] when we release -[4116.00 --> 4116.92] our grasp -[4116.92 --> 4117.88] on our wealth, -[4118.36 --> 4119.28] and we rest -[4119.28 --> 4120.20] in God's care, -[4120.88 --> 4121.72] we can enjoy -[4121.72 --> 4122.80] what he gives us -[4122.80 --> 4124.26] without being -[4124.26 --> 4125.82] enslaved to it. -[4127.74 --> 4128.92] If the pursuit -[4128.92 --> 4129.46] of wealth -[4129.46 --> 4130.24] binds us -[4130.24 --> 4131.00] and possessions -[4131.00 --> 4131.98] handcuff us -[4131.98 --> 4132.76] and the pursuit -[4132.76 --> 4133.70] of immortality -[4133.70 --> 4134.58] chains us -[4134.58 --> 4135.08] to a ball -[4135.08 --> 4136.18] that cannot move, -[4137.84 --> 4138.20] resting -[4138.20 --> 4140.08] in God's care -[4140.08 --> 4141.16] allows us -[4141.16 --> 4141.98] to find joy -[4141.98 --> 4142.82] in this world -[4142.82 --> 4143.72] that does not -[4143.72 --> 4144.46] enslave us -[4144.46 --> 4146.72] because it's not -[4146.72 --> 4147.20] the pursuit -[4147.20 --> 4147.64] of wealth -[4147.64 --> 4148.18] that will meet -[4148.18 --> 4148.66] our needs. -[4148.74 --> 4149.30] It's the pursuit -[4149.30 --> 4149.84] of Christ. -[4150.86 --> 4151.66] It is Jesus -[4151.66 --> 4152.86] who came down -[4152.86 --> 4153.58] into this earth -[4153.58 --> 4154.74] as God incarnate -[4154.74 --> 4156.10] and he made himself -[4156.10 --> 4156.58] nothing, -[4156.94 --> 4158.14] taking on human flesh. -[4158.38 --> 4159.74] He lived the perfect life -[4159.74 --> 4160.38] that you and I -[4160.38 --> 4161.04] fail to live -[4161.04 --> 4162.18] each and every day -[4162.18 --> 4163.16] and then he died -[4163.16 --> 4163.54] to death -[4163.54 --> 4164.56] taking on the weight -[4164.56 --> 4165.22] of sin -[4165.22 --> 4166.30] on his shoulders. -[4166.30 --> 4169.46] He died -[4169.46 --> 4171.22] but death -[4171.22 --> 4172.10] couldn't defeat him -[4172.10 --> 4173.42] and three days later -[4173.42 --> 4174.22] he rose again -[4174.22 --> 4174.86] from the tomb -[4174.86 --> 4175.94] defeating sin -[4175.94 --> 4177.16] once and for all -[4177.16 --> 4178.00] and salvation -[4178.00 --> 4178.98] is found for you -[4178.98 --> 4179.98] and for me -[4179.98 --> 4180.74] because of what -[4180.74 --> 4181.66] he did. -[4182.80 --> 4184.10] Not by any amount -[4184.10 --> 4184.72] you make -[4184.72 --> 4186.52] or I make -[4186.52 --> 4188.32] your eternal -[4188.32 --> 4189.28] needs -[4189.28 --> 4190.44] are found in him -[4190.44 --> 4192.82] in the truth -[4192.82 --> 4193.64] of Jesus Christ -[4193.64 --> 4195.38] and it's not -[4195.38 --> 4196.04] the accumulation -[4196.04 --> 4196.78] of things -[4196.78 --> 4197.68] that will bring us joy -[4197.68 --> 4198.42] but the hope -[4198.42 --> 4199.26] we have in Jesus -[4199.26 --> 4200.18] that brings us joy. -[4200.48 --> 4201.30] See true joy -[4201.30 --> 4201.68] is knowing -[4201.68 --> 4202.28] that we belong -[4202.28 --> 4202.74] to him. -[4203.96 --> 4204.68] He has paved -[4204.68 --> 4205.26] a way forward -[4205.26 --> 4206.06] that no amount -[4206.06 --> 4206.72] of things -[4206.72 --> 4207.20] could ever. -[4208.28 --> 4209.36] The joy we chase -[4209.36 --> 4210.30] in the emptiness -[4210.30 --> 4211.90] of material goods -[4211.90 --> 4213.08] can only be found -[4213.08 --> 4213.78] eternally -[4213.78 --> 4215.06] in the kingdom come -[4215.06 --> 4215.98] and the kingdom coming -[4215.98 --> 4219.06] of our Lord Jesus Christ. -[4220.96 --> 4221.92] When we can see -[4221.92 --> 4222.66] this clearly -[4222.66 --> 4224.72] we'll stop clinging -[4224.72 --> 4225.40] so tightly -[4225.40 --> 4226.44] to our little toys -[4226.44 --> 4227.56] and we'll remember -[4227.56 --> 4229.16] the king of the cosmos -[4229.16 --> 4230.26] is coming -[4230.26 --> 4232.00] and we will reign -[4232.00 --> 4232.64] with him -[4232.64 --> 4233.82] for all eternity. -[4234.60 --> 4235.82] That is joy. -[4237.42 --> 4238.72] And knowing that -[4238.72 --> 4240.42] it's not what we leave -[4240.42 --> 4240.94] behind -[4240.94 --> 4241.78] that's our legacy -[4241.78 --> 4243.72] but our faith -[4243.72 --> 4244.60] in Jesus -[4244.60 --> 4245.74] allows us -[4245.74 --> 4247.16] that legacy -[4247.16 --> 4247.88] to live forever. -[4248.52 --> 4249.26] We do not need -[4249.26 --> 4249.94] to worry about -[4249.94 --> 4250.44] our legacy -[4250.44 --> 4251.06] here on earth -[4251.06 --> 4252.04] if we live out -[4252.04 --> 4252.76] the faith -[4252.76 --> 4253.54] that God -[4253.54 --> 4254.28] has secured -[4254.28 --> 4255.14] for us in Jesus. -[4255.50 --> 4256.20] The inheritance -[4256.20 --> 4256.98] of the kingdom -[4256.98 --> 4257.68] of God -[4257.68 --> 4258.28] is given -[4258.28 --> 4259.24] to all who believe. -[4260.20 --> 4260.82] And when we live -[4260.82 --> 4261.60] out that faith -[4261.60 --> 4262.62] our legacy -[4262.62 --> 4263.34] becomes part -[4263.34 --> 4264.00] of the story -[4264.00 --> 4264.40] that God -[4264.40 --> 4265.18] has already written -[4265.18 --> 4266.74] alongside the heroes -[4266.74 --> 4267.20] of faith -[4267.20 --> 4268.06] that we read about -[4268.06 --> 4269.14] in Hebrews 11 -[4269.14 --> 4270.06] of Enoch -[4270.06 --> 4270.60] and Noah -[4270.60 --> 4271.32] and Abraham -[4271.32 --> 4272.04] and Isaac -[4272.04 --> 4272.60] Jacob -[4272.60 --> 4273.26] Joseph -[4273.26 --> 4273.86] Moses -[4273.86 --> 4274.56] Rahab -[4274.56 --> 4275.20] Gideon -[4275.20 --> 4275.80] Samuel -[4275.80 --> 4276.34] David -[4276.34 --> 4277.62] the prophets -[4277.62 --> 4278.98] they've all -[4278.98 --> 4279.86] left this legacy -[4279.86 --> 4280.46] of faith -[4280.46 --> 4282.00] for believers -[4282.00 --> 4282.68] throughout time -[4282.68 --> 4283.66] and that's a legacy -[4283.66 --> 4285.18] worth being a part of. -[4286.90 --> 4288.20] And so our big idea -[4288.20 --> 4289.08] today is this -[4289.08 --> 4291.60] joy isn't found -[4291.60 --> 4292.68] in what we gain -[4292.68 --> 4294.68] but in the God -[4294.68 --> 4295.38] we trust. -[4297.14 --> 4298.72] Joy isn't found -[4298.72 --> 4299.74] in what we gain -[4299.74 --> 4300.90] but in the God -[4300.90 --> 4301.50] we trust. -[4303.00 --> 4304.24] So how do we live -[4304.24 --> 4306.60] out this faith legacy -[4306.60 --> 4307.84] in a culture -[4307.84 --> 4308.86] that preaches -[4308.86 --> 4310.20] these false gospels? -[4312.06 --> 4313.54] When we trust God -[4313.54 --> 4314.70] and we place our hope -[4314.70 --> 4316.24] in the gospel truth -[4316.24 --> 4316.74] of Jesus -[4316.74 --> 4318.58] we stop chasing wealth -[4318.58 --> 4320.16] we stop chasing possessions -[4320.16 --> 4321.38] we stop chasing -[4321.38 --> 4322.06] the legacies -[4322.06 --> 4323.20] that can bog us down -[4323.20 --> 4323.96] and instead -[4323.96 --> 4325.50] we begin to live -[4325.50 --> 4326.34] in ways -[4326.34 --> 4327.50] that resist -[4327.50 --> 4328.36] the gospels -[4328.36 --> 4329.00] of our world. -[4330.54 --> 4331.56] So we are called -[4331.56 --> 4332.10] to develop -[4332.10 --> 4332.94] these rhythms -[4332.94 --> 4333.82] of resistance -[4333.82 --> 4335.80] which help us -[4335.80 --> 4336.58] counter the world's -[4336.58 --> 4337.30] empty promises -[4337.30 --> 4338.20] with a faithful -[4338.20 --> 4339.42] and practical -[4339.42 --> 4340.50] responses -[4340.50 --> 4341.58] in our daily lives. -[4342.18 --> 4342.78] Now these rhythms -[4342.78 --> 4343.48] of resistance -[4343.48 --> 4344.84] a term which was coined -[4344.84 --> 4345.32] by a ministry -[4345.32 --> 4346.02] called surge -[4346.02 --> 4347.16] they're spiritual gifts -[4347.16 --> 4348.20] sorry -[4348.20 --> 4349.20] they're spiritual disciplines -[4349.20 --> 4351.04] and these spiritual disciplines -[4351.04 --> 4352.10] they combat -[4352.10 --> 4353.86] these false gospels -[4353.86 --> 4355.24] and redirect us -[4355.24 --> 4355.88] to that joy -[4355.88 --> 4356.58] that we find -[4356.58 --> 4357.34] in Jesus. -[4358.24 --> 4359.04] In a world -[4359.04 --> 4359.92] as broken as ours -[4359.92 --> 4360.76] these rhythms help. -[4362.22 --> 4363.28] So for example -[4363.28 --> 4364.72] in a consumeristic -[4364.72 --> 4366.08] overfed -[4366.08 --> 4367.56] never enough -[4367.56 --> 4368.80] Amazon culture -[4368.80 --> 4370.00] fasting -[4370.00 --> 4371.34] is an act -[4371.34 --> 4371.86] of resistance. -[4372.80 --> 4374.04] In a loud -[4374.04 --> 4374.90] noisy -[4374.90 --> 4376.00] distracting -[4376.00 --> 4378.40] economy culture -[4378.40 --> 4380.04] silence -[4380.04 --> 4381.16] and solitude -[4381.16 --> 4382.28] is an act -[4382.28 --> 4382.80] of resistance. -[4383.88 --> 4385.16] In a quick -[4385.16 --> 4385.50] fixed -[4385.50 --> 4385.98] personal -[4385.98 --> 4386.54] and polarized -[4386.54 --> 4387.18] culture -[4387.18 --> 4387.88] lament -[4387.88 --> 4388.84] is an act -[4388.84 --> 4389.40] of resistance. -[4389.56 --> 4390.92] In a hyper -[4390.92 --> 4392.20] individualistic -[4392.20 --> 4393.34] self-love -[4393.34 --> 4394.24] autonomous -[4394.24 --> 4394.86] culture -[4394.86 --> 4395.74] community -[4395.74 --> 4396.92] is an act -[4396.92 --> 4397.78] of resistance. -[4398.56 --> 4400.46] In a nationalistic -[4400.46 --> 4401.64] party over country -[4401.64 --> 4402.92] politically -[4402.92 --> 4403.70] aggressive -[4403.70 --> 4404.38] culture -[4404.38 --> 4405.84] worship -[4405.84 --> 4407.08] is an act -[4407.08 --> 4407.78] of resistance. -[4408.56 --> 4409.68] In a power -[4409.68 --> 4410.10] hungry -[4410.10 --> 4410.98] success -[4410.98 --> 4411.64] oriented -[4411.64 --> 4412.52] appearance -[4412.52 --> 4412.84] driven -[4412.84 --> 4413.44] culture -[4413.44 --> 4414.56] confession -[4414.56 --> 4415.74] is an act -[4415.74 --> 4416.56] of resistance. -[4417.56 --> 4419.12] In a rationalistic -[4419.12 --> 4420.04] data driven -[4420.04 --> 4420.90] calculated -[4420.90 --> 4421.70] culture -[4421.70 --> 4423.04] prayer -[4423.04 --> 4424.44] is an act -[4424.44 --> 4425.58] of resistance. -[4426.88 --> 4428.18] In a 24-7 -[4428.18 --> 4428.82] restless -[4428.82 --> 4429.66] work addicted -[4429.66 --> 4430.60] anxious -[4430.60 --> 4431.40] presence -[4431.40 --> 4432.24] culture -[4432.24 --> 4433.80] Sabbath -[4433.80 --> 4435.80] is an act -[4435.80 --> 4437.06] of resistance. -[4438.70 --> 4439.94] See in a culture -[4439.94 --> 4440.44] that preaches -[4440.44 --> 4441.52] so many false -[4441.52 --> 4441.98] gospels -[4441.98 --> 4442.68] we must -[4442.68 --> 4443.38] practice -[4443.38 --> 4444.08] these acts -[4444.08 --> 4445.10] of resistance -[4445.10 --> 4445.64] not because -[4445.64 --> 4445.94] they will -[4445.94 --> 4446.48] save us -[4446.48 --> 4447.34] Jesus did -[4447.34 --> 4447.94] that already -[4447.94 --> 4449.98] but because -[4449.98 --> 4450.24] they will -[4450.24 --> 4450.78] help us -[4450.78 --> 4451.32] cut through -[4451.32 --> 4452.06] the noise -[4452.06 --> 4453.22] they'll -[4453.22 --> 4454.04] cut through -[4454.04 --> 4454.58] the false -[4454.58 --> 4455.20] gospels -[4455.20 --> 4456.06] and point -[4456.06 --> 4456.36] us to -[4456.36 --> 4456.82] the only -[4456.82 --> 4457.10] true -[4457.10 --> 4457.42] gospel -[4457.42 --> 4458.12] that exists -[4458.12 --> 4459.06] Jesus -[4459.06 --> 4459.50] Christ -[4459.50 --> 4460.28] wealth -[4460.28 --> 4461.10] status -[4461.10 --> 4461.74] possessions -[4461.74 --> 4462.30] legacies -[4462.30 --> 4463.30] even life -[4463.30 --> 4463.78] itself -[4463.78 --> 4465.14] it all -[4465.14 --> 4465.54] fades -[4465.54 --> 4467.34] but the -[4467.34 --> 4467.80] joy -[4467.80 --> 4468.52] of the -[4468.52 --> 4468.94] Lord -[4468.94 --> 4469.58] is our -[4469.58 --> 4470.14] strength -[4470.14 --> 4471.38] and as -[4471.38 --> 4471.72] we become -[4471.72 --> 4472.54] more aware -[4472.54 --> 4473.00] of these -[4473.00 --> 4473.30] false -[4473.30 --> 4473.86] gospels -[4473.86 --> 4474.14] in our -[4474.14 --> 4474.44] world -[4474.44 --> 4475.30] may we -[4475.30 --> 4475.70] truly -[4475.70 --> 4476.22] come to -[4476.22 --> 4476.88] understand -[4476.88 --> 4477.44] more and -[4477.44 --> 4477.84] more that -[4477.84 --> 4478.78] joy is -[4478.78 --> 4479.48] not found -[4479.48 --> 4479.78] in what -[4479.78 --> 4480.42] we gain -[4480.42 --> 4481.38] but in -[4481.38 --> 4481.76] the God -[4481.76 --> 4482.36] we trust -[4482.36 --> 4484.12] so may we -[4484.12 --> 4484.52] think on -[4484.52 --> 4485.08] those spiritual -[4485.08 --> 4485.50] disciplines -[4485.50 --> 4487.50] those acts -[4487.50 --> 4488.48] and rhythms -[4488.48 --> 4489.12] of resistance -[4489.12 --> 4489.88] and ponder -[4489.88 --> 4490.60] how we -[4490.60 --> 4491.98] can continue -[4491.98 --> 4492.80] to incorporate -[4492.80 --> 4493.52] them into -[4493.52 --> 4494.18] our daily -[4494.18 --> 4495.08] lives -[4495.08 --> 4495.78] using them -[4495.78 --> 4496.42] both to -[4496.42 --> 4496.96] resist the -[4496.96 --> 4497.24] false -[4497.24 --> 4497.78] gospels -[4497.78 --> 4498.22] that are -[4498.22 --> 4498.64] out there -[4498.64 --> 4499.36] but also -[4499.36 --> 4500.00] to disciple -[4500.00 --> 4500.62] one another -[4500.62 --> 4502.04] and point -[4502.04 --> 4503.04] our world -[4503.04 --> 4504.38] to what -[4504.38 --> 4504.78] it means -[4504.78 --> 4505.22] to be a -[4505.22 --> 4505.50] follower -[4505.50 --> 4506.06] of Christ -[4506.06 --> 4508.08] life apart -[4508.08 --> 4508.50] from God -[4508.50 --> 4508.98] is meaningless -[4508.98 --> 4509.58] but with -[4509.58 --> 4509.92] him -[4509.92 --> 4510.66] even in -[4510.66 --> 4511.00] little -[4511.00 --> 4513.26] life is -[4513.26 --> 4513.56] full of -[4513.56 --> 4513.84] joy -[4513.84 --> 4514.90] amen -[4514.90 --> 4516.24] let's -[4516.24 --> 4516.46] pray -[4516.46 --> 4520.64] our God -[4520.64 --> 4521.04] in heaven -[4521.04 --> 4522.54] Lord we -[4522.54 --> 4523.02] live in a -[4523.02 --> 4523.38] world -[4523.38 --> 4524.80] that pushes -[4524.80 --> 4525.26] so many -[4525.26 --> 4525.80] things on -[4525.80 --> 4526.08] us -[4526.08 --> 4527.32] and God -[4527.32 --> 4527.74] this is not -[4527.74 --> 4528.04] a new -[4528.04 --> 4528.28] thing -[4528.28 --> 4528.64] even the -[4528.64 --> 4529.12] teacher here -[4529.12 --> 4529.84] in Ecclesiastes -[4529.84 --> 4530.50] saw this -[4530.50 --> 4531.82] the pursuit -[4531.82 --> 4532.38] of wealth -[4532.38 --> 4533.52] the desire -[4533.52 --> 4534.42] to accumulate -[4534.42 --> 4535.16] goods -[4535.16 --> 4538.08] the hope -[4538.08 --> 4538.56] to leave -[4538.56 --> 4539.28] behind a -[4539.28 --> 4539.92] legacy that -[4539.92 --> 4540.46] will enshrine -[4540.46 --> 4540.96] us forever -[4540.96 --> 4541.54] are all -[4541.54 --> 4541.94] things -[4541.94 --> 4544.08] that still -[4544.08 --> 4545.12] bind us -[4545.12 --> 4545.80] here in -[4545.80 --> 4546.30] this world -[4546.30 --> 4548.52] but God -[4548.52 --> 4549.20] we pray -[4549.20 --> 4551.06] that we -[4551.06 --> 4551.28] will be -[4551.28 --> 4551.76] able to -[4551.76 --> 4553.76] release -[4553.76 --> 4555.16] ourselves -[4555.16 --> 4555.94] from those -[4555.94 --> 4556.46] gospels -[4556.46 --> 4556.74] Lord -[4556.74 --> 4557.06] that we -[4557.06 --> 4557.44] will be -[4557.44 --> 4557.90] able to -[4557.90 --> 4558.86] find the -[4558.86 --> 4559.70] joy in -[4559.70 --> 4559.98] you -[4559.98 --> 4560.58] in your -[4560.58 --> 4560.88] life -[4560.88 --> 4561.12] death -[4561.12 --> 4561.28] and -[4561.28 --> 4561.72] resurrection -[4561.72 --> 4562.30] in the -[4562.30 --> 4562.76] understanding -[4562.76 --> 4563.10] that you -[4563.10 --> 4563.54] will come -[4563.54 --> 4563.84] again -[4563.84 --> 4564.44] and that we -[4564.44 --> 4565.12] are eternally -[4565.12 --> 4565.76] saved and -[4565.76 --> 4566.22] will reign -[4566.22 --> 4566.72] with you -[4566.72 --> 4567.68] over the -[4567.68 --> 4568.20] new earth -[4568.20 --> 4568.62] when you -[4568.62 --> 4569.18] come again -[4569.18 --> 4571.00] God -[4571.00 --> 4571.56] may that -[4571.56 --> 4571.96] be our -[4571.96 --> 4572.30] focus -[4572.30 --> 4572.84] may we -[4572.84 --> 4574.06] practice -[4574.06 --> 4574.84] rhythms of -[4574.84 --> 4575.30] resistance -[4575.30 --> 4575.84] to these -[4575.84 --> 4576.44] gospels -[4576.44 --> 4577.78] and regularly -[4577.78 --> 4578.66] point and -[4578.66 --> 4579.18] reorient -[4579.18 --> 4579.84] ourselves back -[4579.84 --> 4580.24] to you -[4580.24 --> 4581.98] and God -[4581.98 --> 4582.38] we pray -[4582.38 --> 4582.88] that others -[4582.88 --> 4583.56] will notice -[4583.56 --> 4585.06] and come -[4585.06 --> 4585.36] to you -[4585.36 --> 4585.78] as well -[4585.78 --> 4587.70] so God -[4587.70 --> 4588.26] as we -[4588.26 --> 4589.90] continue -[4589.90 --> 4590.48] in worship -[4590.48 --> 4590.82] today -[4590.82 --> 4591.28] may that -[4591.28 --> 4591.80] be another -[4591.80 --> 4592.36] rhythm -[4592.36 --> 4593.02] of resistance -[4593.02 --> 4593.58] to the -[4593.58 --> 4593.96] gospels -[4593.96 --> 4594.26] of this -[4594.26 --> 4594.60] world -[4594.60 --> 4595.48] and may -[4595.48 --> 4595.86] we worship -[4595.86 --> 4596.12] you -[4596.12 --> 4596.80] the only -[4596.80 --> 4597.64] being -[4597.64 --> 4598.64] worth -[4598.64 --> 4599.20] worshiping -[4599.20 --> 4600.08] we pray -[4600.08 --> 4600.34] this in -[4600.34 --> 4600.70] your name -[4600.70 --> 4601.36] amen -[4601.36 --> 4613.06] the joy -[4613.06 --> 4627.82] of the -[4627.82 --> 4629.82] the -[4629.82 --> 4630.58] Lord -[4630.58 --> 4632.82] will be -[4632.82 --> 4633.24] my -[4633.24 --> 4634.40] will -[4634.40 --> 4635.32] not -[4635.32 --> 4636.06] be -[4636.06 --> 4636.94] he -[4636.94 --> 4637.50] is -[4637.50 --> 4637.84] my -[4637.84 --> 4638.48] shepherd -[4638.48 --> 4639.14] I -[4639.14 --> 4639.62] am -[4639.62 --> 4640.14] not -[4640.14 --> 4641.04] afraid -[4641.04 --> 4641.62] the -[4641.62 --> 4642.18] joy -[4642.18 --> 4642.92] of the -[4642.92 --> 4643.44] Lord -[4643.44 --> 4643.88] is -[4643.88 --> 4644.38] my -[4644.38 --> 4645.94] strength -[4645.94 --> 4646.74] the -[4646.74 --> 4647.30] joy -[4647.30 --> 4647.94] of the -[4647.94 --> 4648.74] Lord -[4648.74 --> 4649.20] the -[4649.20 --> 4649.74] joy -[4649.74 --> 4650.20] of -[4650.20 --> 4650.50] the -[4650.50 --> 4651.20] Lord -[4651.20 --> 4651.72] the -[4651.72 --> 4652.26] joy -[4652.26 --> 4652.72] of -[4652.72 --> 4653.00] the -[4653.00 --> 4653.50] Lord -[4653.50 --> 4653.96] is -[4653.96 --> 4654.44] my -[4654.44 --> 4655.32] strength -[4655.32 --> 4659.12] the -[4659.12 --> 4659.70] joy -[4659.70 --> 4660.16] of -[4660.16 --> 4660.48] the -[4660.48 --> 4661.28] Lord -[4661.28 --> 4662.12] will -[4662.12 --> 4662.54] be -[4662.54 --> 4662.94] my -[4662.94 --> 4663.66] strength -[4663.66 --> 4664.54] he -[4664.54 --> 4665.14] will -[4665.14 --> 4666.06] uphold -[4666.06 --> 4666.72] me -[4666.72 --> 4667.28] all -[4667.28 --> 4667.66] of -[4667.66 --> 4667.98] my -[4667.98 --> 4668.88] days -[4668.88 --> 4669.74] I -[4669.74 --> 4670.18] am -[4670.18 --> 4671.04] surrounded -[4671.04 --> 4671.72] by -[4671.72 --> 4672.40] mercy -[4672.40 --> 4673.02] and -[4673.02 --> 4673.70] grace -[4673.70 --> 4674.28] the -[4674.28 --> 4674.76] joy -[4674.76 --> 4675.20] of -[4675.20 --> 4675.50] the -[4675.50 --> 4676.00] Lord -[4676.00 --> 4676.44] is -[4676.44 --> 4676.96] my -[4676.96 --> 4678.48] strength -[4678.48 --> 4679.22] the -[4679.22 --> 4679.76] joy -[4679.76 --> 4680.20] of -[4680.20 --> 4681.50] the -[4681.50 --> 4682.20] joy -[4682.20 --> 4682.70] of -[4682.70 --> 4682.94] the -[4682.94 --> 4683.54] joy -[4683.54 --> 4684.12] of -[4684.12 --> 4684.20] the -[4684.20 --> 4684.70] joy -[4684.70 --> 4685.18] of -[4685.18 --> 4685.44] the -[4685.44 --> 4685.92] joy -[4685.92 --> 4686.32] of -[4686.32 --> 4687.44] the -[4687.44 --> 4688.64] joy -[4688.64 --> 4691.36] of -[4691.36 --> 4691.60] the -[4691.60 --> 4692.64] joy -[4692.64 --> 4694.14] of -[4694.14 --> 4695.14] the -[4695.14 --> 4695.64] joy -[4695.64 --> 4696.24] of -[4696.24 --> 4696.64] the -[4696.64 --> 4697.64] joy -[4697.64 --> 4698.14] of -[4698.14 --> 4701.44] the -[4701.44 --> 4702.02] joy -[4702.02 --> 4702.52] of -[4702.52 --> 4702.82] the -[4702.82 --> 4703.68] Lord -[4703.68 --> 4704.48] will -[4704.48 --> 4704.88] be -[4704.88 --> 4705.30] my -[4705.30 --> 4706.08] strength -[4706.08 --> 4707.00] I -[4707.00 --> 4707.44] will -[4707.44 --> 4707.84] not -[4707.84 --> 4708.84] waver -[4708.84 --> 4709.80] walking -[4709.80 --> 4710.26] by -[4710.26 --> 4711.02] pain -[4711.02 --> 4711.82] he -[4711.82 --> 4712.32] will -[4712.32 --> 4712.64] be -[4712.64 --> 4713.16] strong -[4713.16 --> 4713.66] to -[4713.66 --> 4714.58] deliver -[4714.58 --> 4715.24] me -[4715.24 --> 4715.82] same -[4715.82 --> 4716.40] the -[4716.40 --> 4716.96] joy -[4716.96 --> 4717.42] of -[4717.42 --> 4717.64] the -[4717.64 --> 4718.14] Lord -[4718.14 --> 4718.58] is -[4718.58 --> 4719.14] my -[4719.14 --> 4720.56] strength -[4720.56 --> 4721.36] the -[4721.36 --> 4721.96] joy -[4721.96 --> 4722.32] of -[4722.32 --> 4722.58] the -[4722.58 --> 4723.02] joy -[4723.02 --> 4725.16] of -[4725.16 --> 4726.00] the -[4726.00 --> 4727.38] Lord -[4728.02 --> 4729.42] is -[4729.42 --> 4730.24] my -[4730.24 --> 4730.36] strength -[4730.36 --> 4731.20] the -[4731.20 --> 4731.78] joy -[4731.78 --> 4732.24] of -[4732.24 --> 4732.40] the -[4732.40 --> 4733.42] joy -[4733.42 --> 4734.06] of -[4734.06 --> 4735.60] the -[4735.60 --> 4735.64] joy -[4735.64 --> 4737.20] of -[4737.20 --> 4737.38] the -[4737.38 --> 4737.84] Lord -[4737.84 --> 4738.48] is -[4738.48 --> 4739.10] my -[4739.10 --> 4739.60] strength -[4739.60 --> 4748.84] And so I pray as we leave here today -[4748.84 --> 4750.14] and go out into our weeks -[4750.14 --> 4753.56] that we will remember who our strength is found -[4753.56 --> 4755.62] and the joy of the Lord is our strength, -[4755.72 --> 4757.50] not the false gospels of this world, -[4757.60 --> 4759.88] not in the accumulation of wealth or of things, -[4760.26 --> 4763.56] but in the love and hope we find in Jesus Christ. -[4764.66 --> 4766.46] Please do stick around after this service -[4766.46 --> 4767.22] for some fellowship. -[4767.40 --> 4768.00] If you need prayer, -[4768.10 --> 4769.50] there will be prayer partners available. -[4769.60 --> 4773.14] But now I invite you to receive God's blessing. -[4774.24 --> 4776.58] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[4777.16 --> 4779.40] The Lord make his face shine upon you -[4779.40 --> 4780.58] and be gracious to you. -[4781.00 --> 4783.30] The Lord turn his face toward you -[4783.30 --> 4784.88] and give you his peace. -[4785.32 --> 4786.88] And all of God's people said, -[4787.62 --> 4787.86] Amen. -[4799.60 --> 4809.06] The Lord bless you and keep you -[4809.06 --> 4812.78] and keep you glad you're you. -[4812.82 --> 4813.42] Mm. -[4813.42 --> 4813.44] Mm. -[4813.44 --> 4827.62] Why should I be mad when you made the heavens? -[4828.62 --> 4836.68] Why should I be afraid when you put the stars in place? -[4836.68 --> 4844.14] Why should I lose heart when I know how great you are? -[4844.70 --> 4852.16] Why should I give up when your plans are full of love? -[4853.38 --> 4864.62] In this world we have trouble to have overcome the world. -[4866.68 --> 4875.46] You shine brighter than the brightest star. -[4875.90 --> 4883.18] Pure love, purer than the purest heart. -[4883.18 --> 4895.18] You shine, filling us with courage and strength to follow you. -[4895.18 --> 4908.96] Why should I be mad when you made the heavens? -[4910.30 --> 4916.96] Why should I be afraid when you put the stars in place? -[4916.96 --> 4925.12] Why should I lose heart when I know how great you are? -[4925.80 --> 4933.20] Why should I give up when your plans are full of love? -[4933.20 --> 4939.60] In this world we have trouble. -[4941.90 --> 4946.48] But you have overcome the world. -[4948.48 --> 4953.98] But you have overcome the world. -[4953.98 --> 4964.16] You shine brighter than the brightest star. -[4964.60 --> 4971.84] Pure love, purer than the purest heart. -[4971.84 --> 4973.84] You shine. -[4973.84 --> 4974.84] You shine. -[4974.84 --> 4975.66] You shine. -[4975.66 --> 4983.84] Filling us with courage and strength to follow you. -[4983.84 --> 4985.84] You shine. -[4985.84 --> 4986.84] You shine. -[4986.84 --> 4987.84] Brighter than the brightest star. -[4987.84 --> 4990.84] Brighter than the brightest star. -[4990.84 --> 4992.84] Pure love, purer than the purest heart. -[4992.84 --> 4993.84] You shine. -[4993.84 --> 4994.84] You shine. -[4994.84 --> 4998.84] Pure love, purer than the purest heart. -[4998.84 --> 5001.84] You shine. -[5001.84 --> 5002.84] You shine. -[5002.84 --> 5011.84] Filling us with courage and strength to follow you. -[5011.84 --> 5012.84] Father, You shine. -[5012.84 --> 5014.84] llama on earth Dad. -[5014.84 --> 5015.84] Rain you team. -[5015.84 --> 5016.64] Don't礼 you car. -[5016.64 --> 5016.84] You shine. -[5016.84 --> 5017.14] ึbeava. -[5017.14 --> 5017.84] Nobody. -[5017.84 --> 5018.34] Don't礼 you. -[5018.34 --> 5018.84] Then severelyully. -[5018.94 --> 5019.84] Don't礼 you. -[5020.24 --> 5020.84] Thanks. -[5020.84 --> 5021.04] Hey. -[5021.04 --> 5024.84] Thanks a lot for your people. -[5024.84 --> 5025.74] Love you. -[5025.84 --> 5026.18] Hey. -[5026.18 --> 5028.18] Good job. -[5028.18 --> 5030.20] Praise God. -[5030.20 --> 5034.82] Thank you. -[5034.82 --> 5039.66] To your andнако would've been 타'd. -[5039.84 --> 5041.34] Let me list you. -[5041.34 --> 5071.32] Thank you. -[5071.34 --> 5101.32] Thank you. -[5101.34 --> 5131.32] Thank you. -[5131.34 --> 5161.32] Thank you. -[5161.34 --> 5191.32] Thank you. -[5191.34 --> 5193.34] Thank you. -[5221.34 --> 5223.34] Thank you. -[5251.34 --> 5253.34] Thank you. -[5281.34 --> 5283.34] Thank you. -[5311.34 --> 5313.34] Thank you. -[5341.34 --> 5343.34] Thank you. -[5371.34 --> 5373.34] Thank you. -[5401.34 --> 5403.34] Thank you. -[5431.34 --> 5433.34] Thank you. -[5461.34 --> 5463.34] Thank you. -[5463.34 --> 5465.34] Thank you. -[5465.34 --> 5467.34] Thank you. -[5467.34 --> 5469.34] Thank you. -[5469.34 --> 5471.34] Thank you. -[5471.34 --> 5473.34] Thank you. -[5473.34 --> 5475.34] Thank you. -[5475.34 --> 5477.34] Thank you. -[5477.34 --> 5479.34] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, November 23, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, November 23, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 7ea484ef5dda66ada379727f059e16f9d6019ee8..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, November 23, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,131 +0,0 @@ -• Youth meeting and event reminders -• Langley churches' youth worship night -• Women's Christmas event sign-ups and volunteering opportunities -• Midweek worship night announcement -• Children's worship time seeking volunteer helper -• Worship service focusing on the holiness of God -• Praise to God for His breath in our lungs -• Confession of sin and seeking forgiveness -• Requesting strength and guidance from God -• Invocation to rise and sing a song -• Singing "When I Fear My Faith Will Fail" hymn -• Reflection on God's forgiving nature -• Update on missionaries Jody and Uriel Gonzalez in Mexico -• The church expresses gratitude for donations -• Seafarers Ministry and its importance is discussed -• Donations made during the service will go towards the Seafarers Ministry unless specifically designated otherwise -• Pastor Chris continues with a sermon from Ecclesiastes -• Children's worship time begins, discussing how sometimes things that seem exciting at first lose their importance after a while -• Introducing a bubble activity -• Celebrating Pastor Chris and Rachel's five-year anniversary at Emmanuel CRC -• Expressing gratitude for their service and ministry -• Reading Romans 10:14-17 about evangelism and spreading good news -• Praying for Pastor Chris, Rachel, and their family -• Announcing upcoming events: fall budget meeting and Tri Soup Tournament -• Leading a congregational prayer to thank God and bring concerns and blessings before Him -• Blessing of pregnancies and families -• Healing and peace for those with struggles or broken relationships -• Support for individuals suffering from seasonal depression or spiritual struggles -• Blessing for John Kuypers in his waiting period -• Blessings for aging membership, including physical support -• Request for a good congregational meeting tomorrow night -• Blessings for the seafarers' ministry and its workers -• Blessing of Pastor Chris's message this morning -• Prayer for the congregation and staff -• The speaker describes how children are often initially delighted with gifts but then quickly lose interest and focus on the box -• Adults retain this behavior, substituting more sophisticated pursuits for true joy -• Life's fragility is highlighted by moments that shake people awake to its impermanence -• Ecclesiastes 12 contrasts youth and delight with life's fading light and fleeting nature of rejoicing -• The speaker suggests that humans long for things they cannot hold onto, including youth and beauty -• Anti-aging efforts and a culture of distraction are presented as attempts to deny or outrun the passage of time and its accompanying sadness -• Ecclesiastes is said to tell the truth about joy being something we can't achieve by manipulating circumstances -• The fleeting nature of happiness and security in life -• The inevitability of fragility and loss despite planning and preparation -• The "invulnerability impulse" in young people, assuming they will not experience bad things -• The temporary nature of solutions and fulfillment offered by the world -• The danger of God becoming optional when control and security are assumed to be certain -• The danger of forgetting God and the importance of remembering Him -• The tendency to put off spiritual matters until later in life -• The definition of "later" as the most spiritually dangerous word -• The ease with which habits of remembering God can wither away -• The importance of making time for faith and spirituality, especially in youth -• The act of remembering in the Bible is not just a mental recall, but a covenantal relationship and worship-filled movement of the heart towards God. -• To remember in the biblical sense means to live daily with God at the center, rather than at the margins, and to have faith in action for the future because of the past. -• The importance of remembering is emphasized by the teacher, especially for the young, to live life now while still strong and capable. -• The book of Ecclesiastes is not meant to depress or make one feel hopeless, but to wake one up to reality that youth, joy, and security are temporary gifts. -• Treating temporary things as ultimate will eventually let one down, and the biblical contrast highlights this between living with God at the center versus putting weight on temporary things. -• The world's advice to build a life that keeps hard things away and secure one's life through effort -• The teacher's advice to look upward, find the creator who made you and sustains you, and entrust your life to them -• The importance of remembering one's creator in all aspects of life, including joy and facing limits -• A personal experience of a major change in life on June 28, 2007, that led to a deeper understanding of this principle -• A friend of the speaker was killed in a car crash at age 22 -• The speaker and others flew to Manitoba for the funeral -• A pastor preached a sermon based on the words "remember your creator in the days of your youth" -• The speaker reflects on the fragility of life and the importance of appreciating time -• Longing for lasting delight and satisfaction that cannot be found through worldly means -• The importance of Jesus in restoring our heart to rejoice rightly in our creator -• Confrontation with the hard truth that every human being is at their core a rejoicer and worshiper made by God -• The rebellion against God in the garden and its effects on how we live out our lives today -• A broken rejoicer is not a heart that can't feel joy -• A broken rejoicer worships the wrong things and feels joy in something other than its intended purpose -• The heart was created for God, but has been misaimed -• As a result, it cannot find rest -• Jesus comes to correct this issue -• The concept of a "rejoicer" that was lost and can be restored through faith in God. -• The idea that humans were created for a life of perfect trust and glory, but fell short due to sin and death. -• The resurrection of Jesus Christ as the means by which people can have their lives transformed and renewed. -• The gift of new heart and willpower given by God's Holy Spirit, allowing people to remember and rejoice in God properly. -• The recognition that true strength and security come from God, not human efforts or fleeting things. -• The importance of worship and remembering one's creator -• The gospel as a promise to remember one's creator -• The healing and restoration that comes from remembering God in Christ -• The joy and purpose that comes from living a life in reverence to one's creator -• The impermanence of worldly things and the importance of focusing on relationships with God -• Meaning and purpose in life -• Redemption through Christ -• The difference between gifts and the giver -• Remembering God in daily life -• Practical application of wisdom from Ecclesiastes -• Abstract vs practical wisdom -• Living out faith in everyday life -• Developing habits and practices that shape our hearts -• Three ways to live as restored rejoicers: deepening remembering, gratitude, and worship -• Memory shapes the heart and recalling God's gifts is essential to cultivating gratitude -• Reflecting on scripture and pausing to pray can help foster a sense of gratitude -• Gratitude is the natural response of a rejoicer who has been re-aimed towards God -• The importance of incorporating spirituality into daily life -• Practicing remembrance and devotion to God through rhythms such as prayer, singing, and sacraments -• Making remembering easier by joining a community or group that supports faith -• Strengthening personal remembering in everyday choices and actions -• Actualizing remembrance in real-life decisions -• Reflecting on one's life and relationships as a form of worship -• Practicing generosity, patience, and gratitude -• Shifting from self-protection to living with God at the center -• Transforming ordinary actions into acts of worship -• Returning joys and blessings to their giver -• The heart's rejoicer organ and its restoration to proper aim -• The relationship between remembering and rejoicing -• The distinction between misdirected joy and genuine connection with God -• The difference between external pursuits and internal satisfaction -• The importance of recognizing the giver, rather than material possessions or accomplishments -• The one who restores joy and gives true happiness -• Remembering the creator and rejoicing in him -• Not letting false joys replace the creator -• Being anchored in Christ even when life feels fragile and fleeting -• Remembering the creator in one's youth -• The importance of remembering and living with joy -• The enduring nature of meaning when all else is meaningless -• Seeking guidance from God through prayer -• Recognizing God as a source of love, power, and spirit -• Asking for restoration and guidance for those who are young or struggling -• Remembering and living out faith -• Worship and praise of Jesus as above every other name -• Foundation of life built on God's love and trust -• Encouragement for those seeking connection with the church or membership -• Blessings and protection from God before, behind, beneath, and beside -• Worship and praise to God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit -• The kingdom of God and its coming -• Redemption of creation through Jesus' death and resurrection -• Salvation and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross -• The power and love of God over death and sin -• The birth of the Church of Christ and the restoration of souls to the Father \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, November 23, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, November 23, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 00bf410888cfd36eaf981e286e95ee655ac3f868..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, November 23, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2750 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.72] Announcement for Pastor Kevin, just about youth. Youth is meeting tonight for 2020. That's here. -[6.82 --> 11.46] If you have any questions, you can talk to Kevin or your leaders. And then also on Tuesday, -[12.54 --> 18.14] the Langley churches, a number of churches from the Langley area are gathering their youth groups -[18.14 --> 23.66] together for a special worship night that's being hosted at Living Waters. If you are part of the -[23.66 --> 28.10] youth program, you or your parents or guardians have gotten an email about that. But anyways, -[28.10 --> 34.68] you can check with Kevin again if you've got questions there as well. Leanne, why don't you go? -[35.08 --> 40.76] Perfect. Thank you. This is on behalf of the Women's Committee. Today is the last day to sign up for our -[40.76 --> 45.28] Friday Women's Christmas event. We have a lot of attendees who are coming from outside of our -[45.28 --> 49.06] church, which is amazing. So we do ask the congregants who are coming from our church, -[49.14 --> 54.02] so please bear that in mind when you're planning what appy, dessert or both that you want to bring. -[54.02 --> 58.70] Today we are also looking for a couple more decorators. So if you feel inclined to decorate -[58.70 --> 63.14] a table, just come let us know at the back of the church that that interests you, or you can still -[63.14 --> 69.02] sign up online today. Men, we have no cutoff date for you though. We will always take you to come help -[69.02 --> 73.98] with the clean up. So please come and join us if you would like to help move some tables. Thanks. -[79.74 --> 88.70] Two more quick announcements. This coming Wednesday is the midweek worship night. We invite you to come -[88.70 --> 96.42] out for that. This was our second gathering. We gather at 6 30 for a time of social and fellowship -[96.42 --> 102.94] beforehand, and then at 7 worship begins in earnest. And so I encourage you to come out on Wednesday -[102.94 --> 110.04] night for midweek worship. And then lastly, children's worship time is looking for one more helper. -[110.94 --> 116.16] And so that helper can be anyone in grade six or older. Children's worship time is looking for one -[116.16 --> 122.14] more helper. So you can get either Rachel or myself or Pastor Kevin for that. We'd love to help you, -[122.26 --> 128.08] plug you in with that. That's it for announcements. So I'm going to ask if you're able, if you might stand -[128.08 --> 136.96] up together, and we can come into the presence of our God. Following the greeting of God, I invite you -[136.96 --> 141.86] to turn to those around you and welcome them into our worship together. Receive God's greeting. -[141.86 --> 150.08] grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, -[150.42 --> 155.38] and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. -[171.86 --> 185.06] Baptist Joachim Masional Church -[185.06 --> 206.58] This morning, we are invited into worship with the words of the psalmist, who said, -[206.58 --> 216.22] I will remember the deeds of the Lord. Even as we gather to remember, we know the Lord remembers his covenant forever. -[217.02 --> 226.88] And the Lord remembers us and will bless us. Together, let us exalt the Lord our God and worship at his footstool. He is holy. -[236.58 --> 237.58] Amen. -[266.58 --> 268.58] Holy God. -[270.14 --> 290.58] What other beauty demands such praises? What other splendor outshines the sun? What other majesty rules with justice? Only a holy God. -[290.58 --> 312.12] Come and behold him, the one and the only. Cry out, sing holy. Forever a holy God. Come and worship the holy God. -[320.58 --> 340.58] What other glory consumes like fire? What other power can raise the dead? What other name remains undefeated? Only a holy God. -[340.58 --> 361.56] Come and behold him, the one and the only. Cry out, sing holy. Forever a holy God. Come and worship the holy God. -[361.56 --> 391.54] Come and worship the holy God. -[391.56 --> 393.56] Come and worship the holy God. -[393.56 --> 398.56] Come and worship the holy God. Come and worship the holy God. -[398.56 --> 403.56] Come and worship the holy God. Come and worship the holy God. -[403.56 --> 413.56] Who else can rescue me from my failings? Who else could offer his only Son? -[413.56 --> 422.56] Who else can worship the holy God? Who else invite me to call him Father? Only a holy God. -[422.56 --> 427.56] Only a holy God. Only my holy God. Come and behold him, the one and the only. Cry out, sing holy. Forever a holy God. -[427.56 --> 436.10] Come and behold Him, the one and the only. -[436.72 --> 443.58] Cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[443.58 --> 447.68] Come and worship the holy God. -[447.86 --> 451.80] Come and worship the holy God. -[457.56 --> 476.72] Come and behold Him, the one and the only. -[476.72 --> 484.86] Cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[484.86 --> 489.86] Come and worship the holy God. -[489.86 --> 496.86] Cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[496.86 --> 503.86] Cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[503.86 --> 511.86] Cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[511.86 --> 517.08] You give life, you are love. -[517.28 --> 521.32] You bring light to the darkness. -[521.70 --> 529.72] You give hope, you restore every heart that is broken. -[529.72 --> 536.72] And great are you, Lord. -[536.72 --> 542.04] It's your breath in our mouths. -[542.04 --> 544.76] So we pour out our praise. -[545.04 --> 546.58] Pour out our praise. -[546.66 --> 550.14] It's your breath in our mouths. -[550.46 --> 554.42] So we pour out our praise to you only. -[554.42 --> 566.26] You give life, you are love. -[566.26 --> 570.44] You bring light to the darkness. -[570.44 --> 578.56] You give hope, you restore every heart that is broken. -[578.56 --> 580.56] You give life, you are love. -[580.56 --> 581.56] You give faith, you are love. -[581.56 --> 585.54] And great are you, Lord. -[585.54 --> 590.56] It's your breath in our mouths. -[590.56 --> 593.00] So we pour out our praise. -[593.00 --> 594.72] Pour out our praise. -[594.72 --> 597.56] It's your breath in our mouths. -[597.56 --> 601.56] So we pour out our praise to you only. -[601.56 --> 618.56] It's your breath in our lungs, so we pour out our praise, pour out our praise. It's your breath in our lungs, so we pour out our praise to you only. -[631.56 --> 649.56] And all the earth will shout your praise, our hearts will cry, these bones will sing, great are you Lord. -[649.56 --> 664.56] And all the earth will shout your praise, our hearts will cry, these bones will sing, great are you Lord. -[664.56 --> 678.56] And all the earth will shout your praise, our hearts will cry, these bones will sing, great are you Lord. -[678.56 --> 687.56] It's your breath in our lungs, so we pour out our praise, pour out our praise. -[687.56 --> 694.56] It's your breath in our lungs, so we pour out our praise to you only. -[694.56 --> 699.56] You may be seated. -[699.56 --> 723.56] You may be seated. -[723.56 --> 738.56] Our confession this morning is based on an Augustine confession from the 14th century. -[738.56 --> 741.56] Please pray with me. -[741.56 --> 743.56] Lord hear my prayer. -[743.56 --> 748.56] Do not let my soul grow weary under your loving discipline. -[748.56 --> 753.56] And do not let me lose heart as I confess your mercies. -[753.56 --> 759.56] You have drawn me out of destructive paths and turned my heart toward you, -[759.56 --> 766.56] so that you have become my delight above every lesser thing I once chased. -[766.56 --> 773.56] Help me to love you with my whole heart, and to cling to you with all my affection. -[773.56 --> 780.56] Rescue me from every temptation, and keep me in your care to the very end. -[780.56 --> 790.56] O Lord, my King and my God, take whatever gifts I learned in my youth, and use them in your service. -[790.56 --> 796.56] My speaking, my reading, my writing, my learning. -[796.56 --> 801.56] You trained me even when I was pursuing what was empty. -[801.56 --> 805.56] And you have forgiven me for taking pleasure in what was vain. -[805.56 --> 813.56] You taught me many useful things, yet there is a better and safer path for our steps, -[813.56 --> 817.56] to learn all things in the light of your truth. -[817.56 --> 824.56] Lord have mercy on us. Amen. -[824.56 --> 826.56] I invite you to rise while we sing this song. -[826.56 --> 847.56] When I fear my faith will fail, Christ will hold me fast. -[847.56 --> 855.56] When the tempter would prevail, He will hold me fast. -[855.56 --> 863.56] I could never keep my hold through life's faithful love. -[863.56 --> 872.56] For my love is often cold, He will hold me fast. -[872.56 --> 873.56] He will hold me fast. -[873.56 --> 876.56] He will hold me fast. -[876.56 --> 880.56] He will hold me fast. -[880.56 --> 884.56] For my Savior loves me so. -[884.56 --> 889.56] He will hold me fast. -[889.56 --> 897.56] He will hold me fast. -[897.56 --> 901.56] Those He saves are His delight. -[901.56 --> 904.56] Christ will hold me fast. -[904.56 --> 912.56] Precious in His holy sight, He will hold me fast. -[912.56 --> 916.56] He'll not let my soul be lost. -[916.56 --> 920.56] His promises shall last. -[920.56 --> 929.56] But by Him at such a cost, He will hold me fast. -[929.56 --> 936.56] One of the most beautiful descriptions of God, repeated in the Bible, is, -[936.56 --> 940.56] you are a forgiving God. -[940.56 --> 945.56] You are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, and abounding in love. -[945.56 --> 948.56] He holds us fast because He forgives us. -[948.56 --> 953.56] He forgives us because He is gracious and compassionate. -[953.56 --> 960.56] God is gracious and compassionate because He is abounding in love. -[960.56 --> 965.56] He will hold me fast. -[965.56 --> 968.56] He will hold me fast. -[968.56 --> 972.56] For my Savior loves me so. -[972.56 --> 985.56] He will hold me fast. -[985.56 --> 989.56] For my life He bled and died. -[989.56 --> 992.56] Christ will hold me fast. -[992.56 --> 997.56] Justice has been satisfied. -[997.56 --> 999.56] He will hold me fast. -[999.56 --> 1000.56] He will hold me fast. -[1000.56 --> 1004.56] Raised with Him to endless life. -[1004.56 --> 1008.56] He will hold me fast. -[1008.56 --> 1013.56] Till our faith is turned to sight. -[1013.56 --> 1018.56] When He comes at last. -[1018.56 --> 1021.56] He will hold me fast. -[1021.56 --> 1024.56] He will hold me fast. -[1024.56 --> 1028.56] For my Savior loves me so. -[1028.56 --> 1029.56] He will hold me fast. -[1029.56 --> 1030.56] He will hold me fast. -[1030.56 --> 1035.56] He will hold me fast. -[1035.56 --> 1041.56] He will hold me fast. -[1041.56 --> 1045.56] For my Savior loves me so. -[1045.56 --> 1050.56] He will hold me fast. -[1058.56 --> 1059.56] Good morning. -[1059.56 --> 1066.56] My name is Mike and I serve on the Deacon team here for Langley Emanuel. -[1066.56 --> 1072.56] And before we highlight the offering this morning, I just want to give an update on behalf of Jody and Uriel Gonzalez. -[1072.56 --> 1076.56] They are our missionaries in the Tijuana area of Mexico. -[1076.56 --> 1082.56] And they serve with some ladies ministries and with a rehab center for men. -[1082.56 --> 1086.56] Anyway, as many of you know, they had a bit of a washout of their property. -[1086.56 --> 1090.56] So our church has been helping them with some of the finances to restore that. -[1090.56 --> 1092.56] So things are on their way. -[1092.56 --> 1094.56] And they recently had a lot of rain again. -[1094.56 --> 1095.56] And the property has held up. -[1095.56 --> 1096.56] So that's great. -[1096.56 --> 1098.56] And the excavation has been done. -[1098.56 --> 1105.56] And they've been able to buy some rebar and other supplies to get going on this pretty big wall that will help maintain the property. -[1105.56 --> 1109.56] So just a huge thank you on behalf of the deacons for the generosity of this church. -[1109.56 --> 1115.56] And we'll try to get some photos and maybe a little update from Jody and Uriel themselves. -[1115.56 --> 1117.56] In an upcoming email. -[1117.56 --> 1119.56] So stay tuned for that. -[1119.56 --> 1124.56] So this morning we're going to take a moment to give of the gifts that God has given us financially. -[1124.56 --> 1128.56] And of course you can always give to the budget of the church and its ministries. -[1128.56 --> 1131.56] And if you want to do that this morning, just make sure you designate it as such. -[1131.56 --> 1136.56] Either with the little envelopes or mark it as such when you send an e-transfer or whatever. -[1136.56 --> 1141.56] Otherwise, all other donations this morning will go towards the Seafarers Ministry. -[1141.56 --> 1149.56] And the Seafarers Ministry is a quiet but powerful little ministry that operates out of the two ports here in Vancouver. -[1149.56 --> 1155.56] It was started in 1970 by the CRC church and there's a strong partnership with the Anglican church now. -[1155.56 --> 1167.56] But what happens is there's some chaplains and pastors who are employed by the ministry and they visit the hundreds of seafaring people that work on a lot of the ships that come in and out of the ports. -[1167.56 --> 1170.56] And they actually spend a lot of their time going on to the boats. -[1170.56 --> 1173.56] They'll go up to the, I think their website was saying up to about 40 a month. -[1173.56 --> 1179.56] They'll visit to have services, counselling, give an encouraging word. -[1179.56 --> 1189.56] They also operate a couple of centres where some of these seas faring folk can come out and take a break and have some wifi and connect with people and have coffee and whatever. -[1189.56 --> 1195.56] So it's a strong ministry and there's a great need there for some of these people that live on these boats months on end. -[1195.56 --> 1199.56] So thank you for giving of your gifts towards that ministry this morning. -[1225.56 --> 1227.56] Thank you for opening your wish. -[1227.56 --> 1229.56] All to Jesus the sermonispuffs. -[1229.56 --> 1236.56] All to Jesus I surrender, all to Him I freely give. -[1236.56 --> 1247.06] I will never love and trust Him in His presence daily live. -[1247.06 --> 1267.22] I surrender all, I surrender all, all to thee my blessed Savior, I surrender all. -[1267.22 --> 1288.12] All to Jesus I surrender, only at his feet I bow, worldly pleasures all forsaken, take me Jesus, take me now. -[1288.12 --> 1307.12] I surrender all, I surrender all, all to thee my blessed Savior, I surrender all. -[1307.12 --> 1329.18] All to Jesus I surrender, make me Savior, holy thine, let me feel thy Holy Spirit, truly know that thou art mine. -[1329.18 --> 1338.18] I surrender all, I surrender all. -[1339.18 --> 1348.18] All to thee my blessed Savior, I surrender all. -[1348.18 --> 1358.18] I surrender all, I surrender all. -[1358.18 --> 1368.18] All to thee my blessed Savior, I surrender all. -[1378.18 --> 1384.04] Okay, can we have all the kids up here for children's worship or kids' corner? -[1384.34 --> 1385.04] Come on up. -[1400.18 --> 1403.06] You think I can get a loud good morning out of you guys? -[1403.20 --> 1403.62] How about it? -[1403.78 --> 1404.32] Good morning. -[1404.64 --> 1406.18] Good morning. -[1406.18 --> 1406.54] Good morning. -[1406.66 --> 1407.32] That's pretty good. -[1407.36 --> 1408.04] How's things going? -[1408.10 --> 1409.66] How's life going for you guys? -[1409.78 --> 1410.08] Good? -[1411.46 --> 1413.88] Is life pretty tough being a kid or not? -[1414.88 --> 1415.34] Sometimes? -[1415.34 --> 1415.54] Sometimes? -[1415.94 --> 1423.02] Do you think that if you just listen to your parents, obey your parents and follow the rules, -[1423.12 --> 1425.64] everything goes pretty slick, pretty good at home? -[1426.96 --> 1427.34] Yeah? -[1427.56 --> 1433.24] Some head nods, some aren't very sure, some don't really follow those expectations maybe. -[1433.24 --> 1439.24] Today, is it Pastor Chris or Kevin this morning? -[1439.56 --> 1444.42] Pastor Chris is going to continue, I think it's the last passage of Ecclesiastes. -[1444.62 --> 1446.86] Now, I was going to do this with you guys last time. -[1447.52 --> 1450.70] This is like one of the most difficult books in the Bible to say the word. -[1450.76 --> 1453.04] Can everybody in this group here say Ecclesiastes? -[1455.38 --> 1458.60] Wow, the education system is doing real good here in BC. -[1458.60 --> 1459.52] That's great. -[1461.54 --> 1465.82] What we're going to talk about today, has anything ever happened in your life that you thought, -[1465.90 --> 1469.64] oh, I was super excited about, but afterwards it wasn't really that big of a deal? -[1470.22 --> 1471.30] Can you think of anything? -[1472.10 --> 1472.56] Maybe? -[1473.50 --> 1478.74] How about like you're really, really excited about the Canucks to win, but then the next -[1478.74 --> 1480.44] day it was no big deal? -[1481.50 --> 1481.82] Yeah? -[1482.16 --> 1482.42] Yeah. -[1482.42 --> 1485.22] How about when the Blue Jays were playing? -[1485.32 --> 1487.50] Did anybody, didn't you guys watch the Blue Jays, the baseball? -[1487.68 --> 1488.64] Yeah, was that pretty cool? -[1488.74 --> 1492.86] We were super excited about wanting them to win, but then the next day was it, it was okay, -[1492.94 --> 1493.92] we kind of got over it. -[1494.04 --> 1494.60] Was that good? -[1494.64 --> 1496.48] Or some people not over it yet. -[1497.50 --> 1497.86] Chris? -[1499.58 --> 1500.40] Still hurts. -[1500.40 --> 1505.90] So basically what we're going to talk about today in children's worship time, there's -[1505.90 --> 1509.98] a lot of things that happen in life, but most, everything is pretty much not that important -[1509.98 --> 1511.86] as long as we trust and obey God. -[1512.40 --> 1515.60] And what we're going to do in children's worship time is we're going to use a little bit of -[1515.60 --> 1517.92] analogy, we're going to have some fun with bubbles back there. -[1518.00 --> 1519.06] Do you guys know what bubbles are? -[1519.16 --> 1520.42] You know, little bubbles? -[1520.48 --> 1521.02] I'm sure you do. -[1522.02 --> 1522.36] Okay. -[1524.60 --> 1526.04] Let's stand up and do the blessing. -[1526.04 --> 1526.72] Shall we do that? -[1530.40 --> 1531.20] This way. -[1531.80 --> 1532.26] You guys ready? -[1532.94 --> 1533.30] Love. -[1533.76 --> 1534.94] All in the world. -[1535.32 --> 1536.10] All in the world. -[1536.18 --> 1537.52] And also with you. -[1537.52 --> 1566.38] So today, I think, or around this time, marks five years that Pastor Chris and Rachel and -[1566.38 --> 1568.28] family have been with us. -[1569.32 --> 1571.44] So I'd like to ask them to come up. -[1577.00 --> 1578.12] Kids are coming up too. -[1578.24 --> 1578.40] Good. -[1586.82 --> 1592.82] So I'm going to do this off the cuff, which is dangerous, because that's why I always write -[1592.82 --> 1595.90] out all my prayers, because I'm not very good at that. -[1596.04 --> 1600.10] But we want to thank you for being here. -[1602.10 --> 1607.68] It's evident, I think, that God has put you here. -[1607.68 --> 1616.12] Times like this, I guess it's tempting to praise the pastor. -[1617.50 --> 1625.46] But we know that the Spirit is with you, and your leading here is much appreciated. -[1628.90 --> 1630.06] That's a little token. -[1630.06 --> 1643.24] Romans 10 says, everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. -[1645.08 --> 1650.00] Now then, can they call on the one that they have not believed in? -[1650.00 --> 1656.28] And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? -[1657.76 --> 1661.14] And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? -[1662.58 --> 1666.04] And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? -[1667.32 --> 1671.46] As it is written, how beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news. -[1671.46 --> 1672.46] Amen. -[1674.66 --> 1675.44] All right. -[1676.98 --> 1677.60] Thank you. -[1678.68 --> 1679.98] I always knew I had beautiful feet. -[1683.68 --> 1689.12] I'd like the council to come up and surround them as we pray. -[1701.46 --> 1715.32] Heavenly Father, we praise your name, and we humbly stand here before you -[1715.32 --> 1724.02] to thank you for our pastor, knowing that you walk beside him day by day. -[1724.24 --> 1728.40] Lord, we ask that you continue to strengthen him, Rachel, and his family. -[1728.40 --> 1737.16] Lord, we ask that you bless them in their work so that we, together, as a family, as Emmanuel CRC, -[1737.36 --> 1741.96] can stand as a light to this world around us. -[1742.94 --> 1745.32] We pray these things in your heavenly name. -[1745.66 --> 1745.92] Amen. -[1745.92 --> 1746.04] Amen. -[1752.10 --> 1756.24] Afterwards, after church, will be cake. -[1756.24 --> 1760.26] So please join us in the celebration. -[1767.26 --> 1769.86] Good morning. -[1770.34 --> 1772.80] I'm Frank, one of the pastoral elders here. -[1773.30 --> 1776.86] This morning, I have the privilege to lead us in a congregational prayer. -[1777.52 --> 1782.94] Of course, all of us have heard that we have our annual fall budget meeting tomorrow evening. -[1782.94 --> 1786.92] And also, there is the Tri Soup Tournament. -[1787.92 --> 1791.28] This is a potluck soup dinner, which you are all welcome to attend. -[1792.02 --> 1796.24] I know there are a few competitors that are very much vying to win this, -[1796.32 --> 1798.18] and there's great competition between them. -[1798.68 --> 1802.44] That starts at 6 o'clock, and the meeting starts at 7. -[1802.44 --> 1806.38] Let us go before God in prayer. -[1808.90 --> 1816.96] Heavenly Father, our Creator, Jesus, our Redeemer, Holy Spirit, our Sustainer, -[1817.46 --> 1822.06] we come before you this day to thank you and praise you, -[1822.06 --> 1831.36] also to bring our thanks and concerns, troubles and sorrows that are here in our community and abroad. -[1832.28 --> 1838.04] As we are entering this winter season of celebration of Christmas, -[1839.08 --> 1844.68] we ask that we keep it in the perspective of what it is and what it's all about, -[1844.68 --> 1849.84] and not all about commercialism that a lot of the world makes of it. -[1851.26 --> 1854.48] Let us rejoice in the coming of Jesus to this world -[1854.48 --> 1859.80] to sacrifice himself so the relationship that mankind destroyed -[1859.80 --> 1862.58] is able to be restored. -[1864.42 --> 1869.20] Father, as we hear the world news of wars, conflicts, -[1869.68 --> 1872.58] and the greed for control and power, -[1872.58 --> 1875.52] as it seems to be getting worse every day. -[1876.76 --> 1879.82] Father, change the hearts and minds of the world leaders -[1879.82 --> 1884.18] to realize where their power and strength comes from. -[1885.64 --> 1888.54] Lord, also be with all the victims of these conflicts -[1888.54 --> 1891.70] and grant them healing and peace. -[1892.42 --> 1893.72] Lord, hear our prayer. -[1895.46 --> 1898.54] Lord, in this community of Emmanuel there are many blessings. -[1898.54 --> 1902.70] We thank you for being with Pastor Chris, Rachel, Nora, and Malachi -[1902.70 --> 1906.00] for the five years they have already served here. -[1907.08 --> 1911.12] Continue to bless them as family and also in Chris's ministry. -[1912.36 --> 1916.44] Father, we are thankful for the gifts of servant leadership here at Emmanuel. -[1917.58 --> 1920.12] Bless these efforts of everyone involved. -[1921.12 --> 1923.66] Be with those that are still looking for their place here -[1923.66 --> 1928.28] of where they can be helping hands with the gifts you have given them. -[1929.30 --> 1930.96] Nourish them with your spirit. -[1932.66 --> 1936.44] Lord, we bring before you Andy Emmons, who had eye surgery this past week. -[1937.32 --> 1940.90] We pray for a complete healing of his eye, which may take a bit of time. -[1941.48 --> 1942.90] Grant patience and peace. -[1942.90 --> 1948.46] Be with Joanne Miles, who will have thyroid surgery tomorrow morning. -[1949.34 --> 1952.44] Bless these skills of the surgeon and grant a successful surgery -[1952.44 --> 1953.72] and a time of recovery. -[1955.16 --> 1957.74] Father, be with the families that are expecting children -[1957.74 --> 1959.62] in the next number of months. -[1960.72 --> 1962.64] Bless these pregnancies with healthy children. -[1964.30 --> 1968.06] Lord, nourish all the families with your spirit that we have. -[1968.68 --> 1970.28] May they live in harmony with you. -[1970.28 --> 1975.42] Where there are struggles or broken relationships, -[1975.84 --> 1978.24] please, Father, grant healing and peace. -[1979.50 --> 1982.14] Be with everyone who suffers from seasonal depression -[1982.14 --> 1983.62] or spiritual struggles. -[1984.92 --> 1987.28] Grant a good measure of your spirit in their lives -[1987.28 --> 1989.34] so that they are able to have peace again. -[1991.10 --> 1994.98] Father, be with John Kuypers as he is still waiting for answers for his condition. -[1995.84 --> 1997.60] Bless John with patience and peace, -[1997.70 --> 1999.50] knowing everything is in God's timing. -[2000.28 --> 2003.54] Father, we ask for a blessing for our aging membership. -[2004.44 --> 2006.08] Bless them in this time of their life. -[2007.30 --> 2009.96] Help them with the physical or other struggles that can appear. -[2010.54 --> 2013.60] As they age, bless them and also be with their caregivers. -[2014.56 --> 2016.86] Grant them all with what they are in need of. -[2018.02 --> 2019.66] Lord, as we look around us, -[2019.72 --> 2021.74] we are witnessing a lot more homelessness. -[2021.74 --> 2028.10] And those in need stir in us the desire to be the helping hands that these children of yours need. -[2029.60 --> 2032.82] We ask, Father, for a good congregational meeting tomorrow night. -[2033.54 --> 2035.84] Let every member be able to attend this meeting -[2035.84 --> 2038.82] and see they're responsible for these matters of this church. -[2038.82 --> 2043.18] Father, we ask for a blessing for the seafarers' ministry. -[2043.18 --> 2049.06] Let this be a helping hand in all the lives of those that work on these ships that travel the world. -[2049.92 --> 2052.40] Help all these workers stay close to you -[2052.40 --> 2057.42] and true to their families when they are separated from loved ones for extended periods of time. -[2058.62 --> 2061.10] Lord, bless the message of Pastor Chris this morning. -[2061.34 --> 2064.32] Open our hearts and minds to the understanding of your words, -[2064.62 --> 2065.48] which we will hear. -[2065.48 --> 2069.04] Father, we ask you to hear our prayer. -[2069.28 --> 2070.48] In Jesus' name, amen. -[2090.48 --> 2094.14] Before I open the word for us, -[2094.14 --> 2097.88] let me just say thank you for that, Paul, -[2098.02 --> 2102.24] and council and members for those words of encouragement. -[2102.88 --> 2104.76] As I reflect back on five years here, -[2104.86 --> 2107.86] sometimes I think about those COVID years and I go, -[2108.00 --> 2110.88] man, that felt like five years in itself. -[2111.72 --> 2114.62] And then I think now it's been five years and it feels like yesterday. -[2115.30 --> 2121.20] And I want to thank you for your constant support and encouragement and prayers. -[2121.74 --> 2123.58] And I know this is true not just for myself, -[2123.58 --> 2126.40] but for the other staff, for Josh and for Kevin. -[2126.92 --> 2129.88] We feel very encouraged in the work that we get to do. -[2129.96 --> 2132.78] And it is a distinct privilege to serve you. -[2132.92 --> 2134.88] And so thank you for allowing us that privilege -[2134.88 --> 2136.80] and supporting us with your prayers. -[2138.40 --> 2141.62] Here's to five and many more years, the Lord willing. -[2141.62 --> 2148.48] We're going to read this morning from Ecclesiastes 12. -[2148.96 --> 2155.28] This is the last message in our series through the book of Ecclesiastes. -[2155.46 --> 2157.60] I'm going to read the first eight verses. -[2158.38 --> 2160.68] I encourage you to have that open in front of you -[2160.68 --> 2164.68] and then to keep it open as we will refer back later. -[2164.68 --> 2167.48] From Ecclesiastes 12. -[2170.02 --> 2173.58] Remember your creator in the days of your youth. -[2174.60 --> 2178.16] Before the days of trouble come and the years approach -[2178.16 --> 2180.92] when you will say, I find no pleasure in them. -[2182.20 --> 2185.84] Before the sun and the light and the moon and the stars grow dark -[2185.84 --> 2188.52] and the clouds return after the rain. -[2188.52 --> 2193.32] When the keepers of the house tremble and the strong men stoop. -[2194.44 --> 2196.98] When the grinders cease because they are few -[2196.98 --> 2200.40] and those looking through the windows grow dim. -[2201.18 --> 2205.04] When the doors to the street are closed and the sound of grinding fades. -[2205.30 --> 2208.14] When the people rise up at the sound of the birds, -[2208.42 --> 2210.16] but all their songs grow faint. -[2210.96 --> 2214.14] When people are afraid of heights and of dangers in the streets. -[2214.14 --> 2218.34] When the almond tree blossoms and the grasshopper drags itself along. -[2218.52 --> 2220.94] And desire no longer is stirred. -[2221.44 --> 2225.86] Then people go to their eternal home and mourners go about the streets. -[2227.18 --> 2232.38] Remember him before the silver cord is severed and the golden bowl is broken. -[2232.68 --> 2237.80] Before the pitcher is shattered at the spring and the wheel broken at the well. -[2238.22 --> 2241.62] And the dust returns to the ground it came from. -[2241.62 --> 2245.20] And the spirit returns to God who gave it. -[2245.20 --> 2246.20] Meaningless. -[2246.20 --> 2246.88] Meaningless. -[2246.88 --> 2247.20] Meaningless. -[2247.20 --> 2248.20] Meaningless. -[2248.20 --> 2249.20] Meaningless. -[2249.20 --> 2249.96] Says the teacher. -[2249.96 --> 2253.76] Everything is meaningless. -[2253.76 --> 2256.30] This is the word of the Lord. -[2256.30 --> 2266.18] I know that this has happened in my house and in my family. -[2266.18 --> 2269.06] I know it happened when I was a kid as well. -[2269.06 --> 2275.92] But have you ever watched a child open a present on their birthday or at Christmas? -[2276.56 --> 2278.16] They tear off the paper. -[2278.72 --> 2280.82] They lift the lid of the box. -[2281.64 --> 2284.50] And then they dump it out and spend the next 20 minutes playing with the box. -[2286.36 --> 2286.74] Right? -[2286.80 --> 2290.22] There's this shiny new toy that you have searched for. -[2290.80 --> 2291.96] That you have saved. -[2292.06 --> 2294.60] That you have wrapped with care and love. -[2294.60 --> 2299.26] And then they toss it to the side because the box is going to make a better target for your bow and arrow. -[2300.78 --> 2301.86] That one's personal. -[2305.12 --> 2305.54] Right? -[2305.60 --> 2306.34] It's funny. -[2306.50 --> 2307.20] It's innocent. -[2307.54 --> 2308.86] But it's also familiar. -[2310.50 --> 2318.44] I want to suggest to you that as adults, we just get better at making the box look more sophisticated. -[2318.44 --> 2320.66] But we do the same thing. -[2321.82 --> 2322.26] Right? -[2322.30 --> 2327.86] We take the gifts of youth, whether it's energy or opportunity or beauty, strength or freedom, -[2327.86 --> 2331.12] and we fix our hearts on the box. -[2331.28 --> 2332.58] We chase the wrapping. -[2333.08 --> 2337.62] We cling to the stuff that was never meant to hold the weight of our joy. -[2339.44 --> 2345.54] But then, every now and again, something happens that shakes us awake. -[2345.54 --> 2354.32] A moment when the light in the room shifts and we see for just a second how fragile everything is. -[2354.74 --> 2359.46] How tentatively held together the careful life that we have crafted. -[2359.76 --> 2360.74] That can be a diagnosis. -[2361.28 --> 2363.66] It can be a sudden change in someone you love. -[2363.76 --> 2369.38] It can be a conversation that you've had that reminds you that time is slipping away faster than you thought. -[2369.46 --> 2372.08] It can be an anniversary celebration when you look back and go, -[2372.18 --> 2372.44] Really? -[2372.92 --> 2373.60] Five years? -[2373.60 --> 2373.68] Five years? -[2374.20 --> 2379.76] It's a moment that you wish you could freeze because you know that you won't get it back. -[2381.18 --> 2387.34] And it's exactly this collision, the innocence of the cardboard box joy, -[2387.56 --> 2396.32] and the ache of life's fading light that Ecclesiastes 12 is setting before us this morning. -[2396.32 --> 2403.08] Youth and delight on one side and shadows lengthening at the other. -[2403.78 --> 2408.92] A picture of the world where rejoicing is real but temporary. -[2408.92 --> 2413.84] Where life is beautiful but breakable. -[2415.38 --> 2418.56] And into that tension, the teacher says, -[2419.36 --> 2424.10] Before the box falls apart, before the house crumbles, before the doors swing shut, -[2424.46 --> 2429.82] the sound of life grows faint, remember your creator. -[2429.82 --> 2436.48] When we move past the cardboard box simplicity of childhood, -[2436.48 --> 2441.26] or when we look at the ways that we get really good at dressing up the box, -[2442.08 --> 2443.96] pretending it's something else, -[2444.32 --> 2447.82] we discover, I pray, beneath that and in that, -[2447.90 --> 2453.88] a deep ache that is humming under the surface of our lives. -[2453.88 --> 2456.70] Ecclesiastes names it for us, -[2456.80 --> 2462.26] that we are creatures who long for what we cannot hold. -[2463.78 --> 2466.98] And so we long to stay young, right? -[2467.00 --> 2469.46] Even if we don't say it out loud, we feel it. -[2470.16 --> 2473.54] We feel it when we see an old photo and we whisper, -[2474.00 --> 2475.30] What happened to my hairline? -[2476.70 --> 2478.60] We see it when we look in the mirror, -[2478.60 --> 2483.94] or when someone we love suddenly looks older than when we remember. -[2485.30 --> 2488.96] Something inside of us pushes back and says, -[2489.06 --> 2490.30] I'm not ready for this yet. -[2491.46 --> 2494.88] And our world wants to rush into that ache, -[2495.14 --> 2498.62] into that realization to soothe it and to calm it. -[2498.84 --> 2500.94] And so we have anti-aging everything. -[2501.68 --> 2503.82] I turned 40 two years ago. -[2503.96 --> 2506.68] My Instagram feed shifted immediately. -[2506.68 --> 2510.40] So you're a man over 40 who wants to lose 30 pounds. -[2511.06 --> 2511.30] What? -[2511.82 --> 2512.76] How did you know that? -[2513.88 --> 2515.80] So your hairline has been receding. -[2516.12 --> 2516.62] Come on! -[2517.90 --> 2518.12] Right? -[2518.34 --> 2521.44] Everything shifted to push back against this. -[2521.56 --> 2523.32] Wellness rituals, fitness apps, -[2523.66 --> 2526.76] procedures and products to deny the passage of time. -[2527.00 --> 2529.70] And beneath it all is this quiet fear. -[2530.64 --> 2532.64] What if I can't hang on to what I had? -[2532.64 --> 2536.70] At the same time, -[2536.78 --> 2540.78] we long for a joy that doesn't collapse under the weight of reality. -[2541.76 --> 2541.86] Right? -[2541.90 --> 2542.98] We chase moments, -[2543.18 --> 2545.12] entertainment and pleasure and vacations, -[2545.32 --> 2546.46] and the next distraction, -[2546.76 --> 2550.28] just hoping to stay ahead of the sadness or to outrun the anxiety. -[2551.64 --> 2553.74] Our culture tells us, of course, -[2553.86 --> 2557.40] that joy is something that we can achieve -[2557.40 --> 2560.50] by carefully arranging our circumstances. -[2561.50 --> 2561.64] Right? -[2561.74 --> 2562.90] Keep the mood light. -[2563.32 --> 2564.62] Keep the news off. -[2565.18 --> 2566.74] Keep the schedule full. -[2567.16 --> 2568.68] Keep the relationships shallow, -[2568.68 --> 2570.02] because then you won't get hurt. -[2571.22 --> 2573.34] But Ecclesiastes doesn't let us pretend. -[2574.78 --> 2574.94] Right? -[2574.96 --> 2575.64] It tells the truth. -[2575.72 --> 2576.54] It says explicitly, -[2576.54 --> 2578.90] there will be days without pleasure. -[2579.62 --> 2581.56] Days when distraction fails, -[2581.70 --> 2582.92] when joy feels thin, -[2583.12 --> 2588.40] when we realize just how much our happiness is built on things that we cannot control. -[2589.04 --> 2592.50] Things that can be taken away without any warning. -[2593.72 --> 2598.54] And we live and long for security in a world that we cannot control. -[2598.54 --> 2603.84] So we plan, we save, we insure, and we build, -[2604.02 --> 2609.46] and we do everything we can to construct lives that are safe and predictable. -[2611.30 --> 2613.06] But then something happens. -[2614.28 --> 2616.96] Anything, actually, really happens. -[2617.14 --> 2618.28] The house shakes. -[2618.42 --> 2621.46] The things that we thought were solid begin to rock. -[2621.66 --> 2625.48] And suddenly, the limits of our control are exposed. -[2625.48 --> 2628.62] And our carefully curated construction -[2628.62 --> 2632.30] that simply doesn't feel secure anymore. -[2633.02 --> 2634.06] And let me be really clear, right? -[2634.08 --> 2636.32] Because it's not that planning is wrong. -[2638.22 --> 2640.04] It just can't protect us -[2640.04 --> 2644.46] from the fragility that Ecclesiastes is describing. -[2648.28 --> 2652.30] And here's what I know -[2652.30 --> 2655.34] and what I think the teacher wants us to see this morning in particular. -[2655.48 --> 2661.92] That these longings find a particular and a poignant expression -[2661.92 --> 2663.46] when you are young. -[2664.64 --> 2668.18] And so here I'm thinking of teenagers and early 20-somethings. -[2668.78 --> 2669.22] Right? -[2669.30 --> 2673.76] This poignancy comes precisely because when you're young, -[2673.90 --> 2678.48] we don't even realize we're operating out of these ideas and assumptions. -[2678.48 --> 2683.80] A young person doesn't so much long to stay young -[2683.80 --> 2685.54] as much as they assume they will. -[2687.54 --> 2688.14] Right? -[2688.26 --> 2690.04] Psychologists have a word for this. -[2690.16 --> 2692.82] It's called the invulnerability impulse. -[2693.42 --> 2695.94] Sometimes it's referred to as the invulnerability complex. -[2695.94 --> 2700.54] But it's the quiet belief that when you're young, -[2700.80 --> 2702.94] these bad things happen to other people. -[2703.46 --> 2706.52] Sickness, loss, limits, even death won't happen to me. -[2707.02 --> 2707.10] Right? -[2707.38 --> 2709.56] Youth doesn't imagine fragility. -[2710.10 --> 2712.42] Youth assumes permanence. -[2712.42 --> 2718.14] And with that, there's this kind of built-in optimism. -[2719.22 --> 2723.50] And it's not that young hearts long for a joy that reality can't crush. -[2723.92 --> 2726.84] For many, reality hasn't crushed that joy. -[2728.30 --> 2731.80] Life still feels open and full and expandable. -[2732.16 --> 2734.50] Joy seems natural and not threatened. -[2734.50 --> 2738.58] The future looks like something that you can seize and shape. -[2740.00 --> 2745.00] And the same is true when you're in this time of life with security. -[2745.38 --> 2745.50] Right? -[2745.54 --> 2748.36] When you're young, you don't lie awake at night -[2748.36 --> 2750.70] longing for something to protect you from the world. -[2750.92 --> 2755.36] You assume that you can go out and secure it and shape it and build it. -[2755.98 --> 2758.54] And if something goes wrong, well, we'll fix it. -[2759.30 --> 2761.58] If something breaks, we'll rebuild it. -[2761.86 --> 2763.36] Or maybe we'll replace it. -[2764.50 --> 2767.10] If a door closes when you're 15, -[2767.46 --> 2769.46] you'll just find another one to kick open. -[2770.24 --> 2771.26] That's the way it works. -[2773.16 --> 2774.64] Now, let me be really clear. -[2775.86 --> 2780.00] These longings are not themselves foolish. -[2781.48 --> 2781.98] Right? -[2782.06 --> 2783.98] They're deeply human. -[2785.10 --> 2787.82] And when you're young, when you're in this age, -[2788.40 --> 2792.44] it's developmentally appropriate and necessary. -[2792.44 --> 2793.08] Right? -[2793.40 --> 2795.48] We want youth to last. -[2795.58 --> 2796.82] We want joy to endure. -[2797.26 --> 2799.96] We want security that doesn't evaporate overnight. -[2801.76 --> 2804.18] But here's the truth of Ecclesiastes for us. -[2805.18 --> 2806.60] And every solution, -[2807.40 --> 2808.98] every fulfillment, -[2809.54 --> 2812.06] every idea that the world hands us -[2812.06 --> 2814.36] to solve this, fill this, -[2814.46 --> 2815.96] to provide meaning, -[2815.96 --> 2817.38] proves temporary -[2817.38 --> 2819.60] and thin -[2819.60 --> 2822.14] and ultimately powerless -[2822.14 --> 2825.00] to stop the troubles of life from coming. -[2826.32 --> 2828.34] And there's a particular danger here, -[2828.42 --> 2830.12] especially when you're young, -[2830.20 --> 2833.96] when very few bad things have actually happened to you, -[2834.02 --> 2835.80] when your youth feels endless, -[2836.02 --> 2837.54] when your joy feels automatic, -[2837.70 --> 2839.92] when control feels certain, -[2839.92 --> 2842.30] when you think and feel that way, -[2842.78 --> 2845.46] God becomes optional. -[2847.00 --> 2848.46] Not so much rejected, -[2849.36 --> 2850.64] it's just kind of postponed. -[2852.62 --> 2852.78] Right? -[2852.90 --> 2855.04] Faith quietly gets pushed to the edges -[2855.04 --> 2856.72] of our experience. -[2856.90 --> 2858.30] Not because we hate God, -[2858.38 --> 2860.28] not even because we disagree with him, -[2860.38 --> 2863.02] but because we can't actually imagine needing him. -[2864.38 --> 2864.74] Right? -[2864.74 --> 2866.28] When your life feels manageable, -[2867.22 --> 2869.18] why seek wisdom? -[2870.30 --> 2874.48] When everything seems to be working -[2874.48 --> 2876.38] because of your instinct, -[2877.22 --> 2878.42] why ask for advice? -[2881.34 --> 2883.32] Why remember your creator -[2883.32 --> 2886.88] when it feels like you're creating your own life just fine? -[2889.10 --> 2889.30] Right? -[2889.38 --> 2890.30] Forgetting God, -[2890.64 --> 2892.30] especially in our youth, -[2892.42 --> 2894.20] doesn't always look like rebellion. -[2894.74 --> 2897.24] It usually looks like distraction. -[2898.90 --> 2899.38] Right? -[2899.42 --> 2901.66] It looks like a heart that assumes -[2901.66 --> 2903.42] there will be time for this later. -[2904.20 --> 2904.64] Right? -[2904.66 --> 2906.44] A time to be serious later. -[2906.56 --> 2908.28] A time to be faithful later. -[2908.40 --> 2911.36] A time to deal with the big questions of life later. -[2911.46 --> 2913.50] A time to return to church later. -[2913.62 --> 2916.12] A time to straighten things out later. -[2917.34 --> 2918.80] It sounds like, -[2919.32 --> 2920.88] I'll think about God when I'm older. -[2920.88 --> 2923.50] Or I'll come back to that -[2923.50 --> 2924.86] when my life settles down. -[2925.92 --> 2926.78] And someday, -[2927.06 --> 2928.46] I'll get serious about faith. -[2931.34 --> 2932.76] But later -[2932.76 --> 2937.70] is the most spiritually dangerous word -[2937.70 --> 2940.14] in your walk with God. -[2940.14 --> 2944.48] The teacher knows how quickly -[2944.48 --> 2946.28] habits of remembering -[2946.28 --> 2947.28] can wither -[2947.28 --> 2948.88] and dry out. -[2949.60 --> 2951.14] How easily joy -[2951.14 --> 2952.30] can latch on -[2952.30 --> 2953.28] to the gifts -[2953.28 --> 2954.48] instead of the giver -[2954.48 --> 2955.42] or to the box -[2955.42 --> 2956.10] that they come in. -[2956.60 --> 2957.46] How quietly -[2957.46 --> 2958.78] pride can take root -[2958.78 --> 2960.52] when life seems to be working out. -[2960.52 --> 2962.04] And how the slow drift -[2962.04 --> 2962.96] of forgetting God -[2962.96 --> 2964.36] doesn't feel like a crisis, -[2964.72 --> 2966.34] just feels like normal life. -[2966.34 --> 2968.70] which is why -[2968.70 --> 2969.92] precisely -[2969.92 --> 2970.94] Ecclesiastes -[2970.94 --> 2971.98] and the teacher here -[2971.98 --> 2974.36] interrupts this moment -[2974.36 --> 2975.86] with urgency. -[2976.76 --> 2977.96] Not with fear, -[2978.44 --> 2979.50] but with urgency. -[2980.32 --> 2981.66] A sense of right now. -[2982.44 --> 2984.14] Remember your creator -[2984.14 --> 2985.18] before. -[2985.84 --> 2987.44] Before the illusions fade. -[2987.58 --> 2988.60] Before the days change. -[2988.72 --> 2989.80] Before life grows harder -[2989.80 --> 2990.58] than you expect. -[2990.92 --> 2992.00] Before the moment passes -[2992.00 --> 2993.32] and doesn't come back again. -[2993.32 --> 2996.80] Because forgetting God -[2996.80 --> 2997.68] is easy, -[2998.56 --> 2999.66] remembering him -[2999.66 --> 3000.84] must be learned. -[3002.54 --> 3003.24] And that's exactly -[3003.24 --> 3003.98] where the teacher -[3003.98 --> 3005.36] turns our attention. -[3006.78 --> 3008.24] He doesn't shame youth. -[3008.86 --> 3009.62] He doesn't scold -[3009.62 --> 3010.46] our longings -[3010.46 --> 3011.32] for joy -[3011.32 --> 3012.12] or for security. -[3012.48 --> 3013.24] He simply -[3013.24 --> 3014.50] tells us the truth -[3014.50 --> 3015.52] about life -[3015.52 --> 3016.40] under the sun. -[3017.34 --> 3018.36] And then he gives -[3018.36 --> 3019.44] the only response -[3019.44 --> 3020.10] that can actually -[3020.10 --> 3021.00] bear the weight -[3021.00 --> 3022.32] of our longings. -[3023.32 --> 3024.58] If forgetting God -[3024.58 --> 3025.34] is easy, -[3025.76 --> 3027.22] then remembering him -[3027.22 --> 3029.06] must become intentional. -[3029.74 --> 3030.82] It must become -[3030.82 --> 3031.78] the very shape -[3031.78 --> 3033.30] of our lives. -[3034.72 --> 3035.94] And so the teacher -[3035.94 --> 3037.48] draws a line -[3037.48 --> 3038.08] in the sand -[3038.08 --> 3039.34] and he says, -[3039.58 --> 3040.58] let me show you -[3040.58 --> 3041.74] what remembering -[3041.74 --> 3042.60] your creator -[3042.60 --> 3043.80] really means. -[3044.48 --> 3045.04] And why it's -[3045.04 --> 3045.92] the only way -[3045.92 --> 3047.08] to live wisely -[3047.08 --> 3049.06] before life fades. -[3049.92 --> 3050.96] And the command -[3050.96 --> 3051.52] is simple, -[3051.68 --> 3052.16] but the weight -[3052.16 --> 3052.84] behind it -[3052.84 --> 3053.72] is enormous. -[3054.46 --> 3054.58] Right? -[3054.66 --> 3056.06] Remember your creator -[3056.06 --> 3057.18] in the days -[3057.18 --> 3058.26] of your youth. -[3058.74 --> 3059.22] And like we said, -[3059.28 --> 3059.92] he repeats it -[3059.92 --> 3060.62] with urgency. -[3061.10 --> 3061.78] Remember him -[3061.78 --> 3063.08] when and when -[3063.08 --> 3063.66] and when. -[3063.82 --> 3064.58] Remember him -[3064.58 --> 3066.10] before and before -[3066.10 --> 3067.04] and before. -[3068.64 --> 3070.32] And let me be -[3070.32 --> 3071.36] really clear with you. -[3072.08 --> 3073.06] To remember -[3073.06 --> 3074.58] in the Bible -[3074.58 --> 3076.24] is more than -[3076.24 --> 3077.42] just a call -[3077.42 --> 3078.12] to mind. -[3078.74 --> 3079.82] It's more than -[3079.82 --> 3081.16] just a looking back. -[3081.16 --> 3082.12] In the Bible -[3082.12 --> 3082.94] to remember -[3082.94 --> 3084.50] is covenantal. -[3084.76 --> 3085.24] And what that means -[3085.24 --> 3086.64] is it's relationship -[3086.64 --> 3088.84] and worship filled. -[3089.72 --> 3090.28] To remember -[3090.28 --> 3091.32] is the movement -[3091.32 --> 3092.02] of heart -[3092.02 --> 3092.88] of your heart -[3092.88 --> 3094.16] towards God -[3094.16 --> 3094.94] in trust -[3094.94 --> 3096.02] and faith. -[3096.46 --> 3097.06] To remember -[3097.06 --> 3098.94] is living daily -[3098.94 --> 3100.00] with God -[3100.00 --> 3100.86] at the center -[3100.86 --> 3101.92] rather than -[3101.92 --> 3102.60] at the margins. -[3103.26 --> 3104.10] To remember -[3104.10 --> 3106.10] is not looking -[3106.10 --> 3107.14] to the past -[3107.14 --> 3107.74] so much -[3107.74 --> 3108.36] as it is -[3108.36 --> 3109.60] faith in action -[3109.60 --> 3110.52] now -[3110.52 --> 3112.00] for the future -[3112.00 --> 3112.82] because -[3112.82 --> 3114.76] of the past. -[3115.84 --> 3116.90] The teacher -[3116.90 --> 3117.90] is saying to you -[3117.90 --> 3119.20] and especially -[3119.20 --> 3120.26] if you are young -[3120.26 --> 3122.16] live your life -[3122.16 --> 3122.86] now -[3122.86 --> 3124.36] while you're still -[3124.36 --> 3124.98] strong -[3124.98 --> 3125.72] and full -[3125.72 --> 3126.56] and capable -[3126.56 --> 3127.58] and there's so much -[3127.58 --> 3128.06] promise. -[3128.44 --> 3129.18] Live your life -[3129.18 --> 3129.72] now -[3129.72 --> 3131.10] in the reality -[3131.10 --> 3131.94] that you -[3131.94 --> 3133.46] are created -[3133.46 --> 3134.70] and you -[3134.70 --> 3136.10] are living -[3136.10 --> 3137.04] before -[3137.04 --> 3138.30] a good -[3138.30 --> 3139.64] and sovereign -[3139.64 --> 3140.64] creator. -[3143.42 --> 3144.12] Now why? -[3144.42 --> 3145.34] Why does this -[3145.34 --> 3146.62] matter? -[3146.62 --> 3155.34] Everything else -[3155.34 --> 3156.94] in this chapter -[3156.94 --> 3159.86] is a slow -[3159.86 --> 3161.38] and poetic -[3161.38 --> 3163.20] unraveling -[3163.20 --> 3164.72] of the illusion -[3164.72 --> 3165.98] that we can -[3165.98 --> 3167.04] hold on to life -[3167.04 --> 3167.96] on our own terms. -[3169.04 --> 3170.08] The house trembles -[3170.08 --> 3171.16] the keepers shake -[3171.16 --> 3172.22] the grinders stop -[3172.22 --> 3173.22] the windows darken -[3173.22 --> 3174.02] the doors close -[3174.02 --> 3174.98] the light fades -[3174.98 --> 3176.24] the body bends -[3176.24 --> 3176.92] and the breath -[3176.92 --> 3178.02] returns to the God -[3178.02 --> 3179.20] who gave it. -[3179.96 --> 3180.56] Ecclesiastes -[3180.56 --> 3181.70] throughout this whole book -[3181.70 --> 3182.70] hasn't been -[3182.70 --> 3184.22] painting this picture -[3184.22 --> 3185.40] hasn't been opening -[3185.40 --> 3186.84] our eyes to this reality -[3186.84 --> 3188.62] to depress us -[3188.62 --> 3189.78] but instead -[3189.78 --> 3191.50] to wake us up. -[3192.96 --> 3193.88] The teacher -[3193.88 --> 3195.00] wants us to see -[3195.00 --> 3195.70] that youth -[3195.70 --> 3196.38] and joy -[3196.38 --> 3197.14] and security -[3197.14 --> 3198.46] cannot bear -[3198.46 --> 3199.16] the weight -[3199.16 --> 3200.48] that we put on them -[3200.48 --> 3202.08] and not because -[3202.08 --> 3203.06] they're bad gifts -[3203.06 --> 3205.08] but because -[3205.08 --> 3205.86] they're temporary. -[3206.24 --> 3208.12] And anything -[3208.12 --> 3208.74] temporary -[3208.74 --> 3209.90] will eventually -[3209.90 --> 3210.88] let you down -[3210.88 --> 3211.92] if you treat it -[3211.92 --> 3212.40] as ultimate. -[3214.26 --> 3214.64] And so -[3214.64 --> 3215.12] really -[3215.12 --> 3215.72] the biblical -[3215.72 --> 3216.38] contrast -[3216.38 --> 3217.50] looks like -[3217.50 --> 3218.24] this. -[3219.06 --> 3220.16] On the one hand -[3220.16 --> 3221.20] the world says -[3221.20 --> 3222.56] build a life -[3222.56 --> 3223.08] that keeps -[3223.08 --> 3223.86] the hard things -[3223.86 --> 3224.30] away. -[3225.26 --> 3226.04] The teacher -[3226.04 --> 3226.56] says -[3226.56 --> 3227.98] remember -[3227.98 --> 3228.82] the God -[3228.82 --> 3229.30] who will be -[3229.30 --> 3229.82] with you -[3229.82 --> 3230.58] when they come. -[3230.58 --> 3232.66] the world -[3232.66 --> 3233.14] says -[3233.14 --> 3234.26] look inward -[3234.26 --> 3235.64] find your truth -[3235.64 --> 3236.42] your strength -[3236.42 --> 3237.22] and your meaning -[3237.22 --> 3238.20] the teacher -[3238.20 --> 3238.66] says -[3238.66 --> 3239.36] look upward -[3239.36 --> 3241.34] find the one -[3241.34 --> 3242.32] who made you -[3242.32 --> 3243.84] and sustains you -[3243.84 --> 3245.80] the world -[3245.80 --> 3246.18] says -[3246.18 --> 3247.46] secure your life -[3247.46 --> 3248.50] through effort -[3248.50 --> 3249.44] find meaning -[3249.44 --> 3250.42] in what you do -[3250.42 --> 3250.96] the teacher -[3250.96 --> 3251.48] says -[3251.48 --> 3252.68] secure your life -[3252.68 --> 3253.70] by entrusting it -[3253.70 --> 3254.68] to your creator -[3254.68 --> 3256.94] the world -[3256.94 --> 3257.32] says -[3257.32 --> 3258.22] especially if you -[3258.22 --> 3258.66] are young -[3258.66 --> 3260.08] you have -[3260.08 --> 3260.66] time -[3260.66 --> 3262.70] and the teacher -[3262.70 --> 3263.10] says -[3263.10 --> 3264.76] you don't know -[3264.76 --> 3265.22] how much time -[3265.22 --> 3265.64] you have -[3265.64 --> 3267.12] remember -[3267.12 --> 3267.88] him -[3267.88 --> 3268.74] now -[3268.74 --> 3270.80] and this is -[3270.80 --> 3271.18] the heart -[3271.18 --> 3271.72] of wisdom -[3271.72 --> 3273.06] in ecclesiastes -[3273.06 --> 3273.92] that you -[3273.92 --> 3274.92] cannot live -[3274.92 --> 3275.50] well -[3275.50 --> 3276.66] if you forget -[3276.66 --> 3277.30] the one -[3277.30 --> 3278.14] who gave you -[3278.14 --> 3278.58] life -[3278.58 --> 3279.42] you cannot -[3279.42 --> 3280.00] rejoice -[3280.00 --> 3280.68] rightly -[3280.68 --> 3281.98] if you detach -[3281.98 --> 3282.72] the gift -[3282.72 --> 3283.84] from the giver -[3283.84 --> 3284.60] you cannot -[3284.60 --> 3285.76] face the limits -[3285.76 --> 3286.52] of life -[3286.52 --> 3287.20] if you try -[3287.20 --> 3287.78] to build -[3287.78 --> 3288.30] a life -[3288.30 --> 3288.66] without -[3288.66 --> 3289.44] the God -[3289.44 --> 3290.18] who stands -[3290.18 --> 3290.88] outside of -[3290.88 --> 3291.48] those limits -[3291.48 --> 3293.06] and again -[3293.06 --> 3293.46] the teacher -[3293.46 --> 3293.92] isn't trying -[3293.92 --> 3294.44] to crush -[3294.44 --> 3295.50] our joy -[3295.50 --> 3296.10] he's trying -[3296.10 --> 3296.74] rather to -[3296.74 --> 3297.54] anchor it -[3297.54 --> 3299.16] and the only -[3299.16 --> 3300.06] anchor deep -[3300.06 --> 3300.54] enough -[3300.54 --> 3301.94] to secure -[3301.94 --> 3302.46] this -[3302.46 --> 3303.36] is our -[3303.36 --> 3303.82] creator -[3303.82 --> 3304.40] himself -[3304.40 --> 3311.90] all of -[3311.90 --> 3312.26] this -[3312.26 --> 3315.08] became -[3315.08 --> 3316.28] abundantly -[3316.28 --> 3316.88] real for -[3316.88 --> 3317.18] me -[3317.18 --> 3318.90] on June -[3318.90 --> 3319.54] 28 -[3319.54 --> 3321.04] 2007 -[3321.04 --> 3323.40] two months -[3323.40 --> 3323.78] before -[3323.78 --> 3324.54] June 28 -[3324.54 --> 3326.06] Rachel and -[3326.06 --> 3326.44] I had just -[3326.44 --> 3326.94] gotten married -[3326.94 --> 3329.94] a month -[3329.94 --> 3330.42] after we got -[3330.42 --> 3330.72] married -[3330.72 --> 3332.18] we graduated -[3332.18 --> 3332.82] university -[3332.82 --> 3334.32] Rachel with -[3334.32 --> 3334.94] distinction and -[3334.94 --> 3335.22] honors -[3335.22 --> 3335.96] I was just -[3335.96 --> 3336.18] there -[3336.18 --> 3339.98] I was 24 -[3339.98 --> 3341.78] and I was -[3341.78 --> 3342.76] firmly living -[3342.76 --> 3343.42] out of the -[3343.42 --> 3344.54] invulnerability -[3344.54 --> 3345.22] impulse -[3345.22 --> 3346.94] the world -[3346.94 --> 3347.78] was mine -[3347.78 --> 3348.10] for the -[3348.10 --> 3348.46] taking -[3348.46 --> 3350.64] but on -[3350.64 --> 3351.28] June 28 -[3351.28 --> 3353.14] that changed -[3353.14 --> 3355.80] June 28 -[3355.80 --> 3356.20] we got a -[3356.20 --> 3356.72] phone call -[3356.72 --> 3358.08] that a -[3358.08 --> 3358.46] friend of -[3358.46 --> 3358.80] mine -[3358.80 --> 3359.40] and actually -[3359.40 --> 3359.76] there's a -[3359.76 --> 3360.30] few of us -[3360.30 --> 3360.96] here who -[3360.96 --> 3361.64] knew him -[3361.64 --> 3362.00] that a -[3362.00 --> 3362.28] friend of -[3362.28 --> 3362.46] mine -[3362.46 --> 3362.86] Craig -[3362.86 --> 3363.96] only 22 -[3363.96 --> 3364.58] years old -[3364.58 --> 3365.82] was killed -[3365.82 --> 3366.50] in a car -[3366.50 --> 3366.86] crash -[3366.86 --> 3369.82] I'd lived -[3369.82 --> 3370.24] with him for -[3370.24 --> 3370.82] two years -[3370.82 --> 3372.28] he was a -[3372.28 --> 3372.80] great friend -[3372.80 --> 3378.06] and on -[3378.06 --> 3378.56] that day -[3378.56 --> 3381.08] car crossed -[3381.08 --> 3381.48] the center -[3381.48 --> 3381.82] line -[3381.82 --> 3382.38] while he -[3382.38 --> 3382.86] was driving -[3382.86 --> 3384.10] killed him -[3384.10 --> 3384.42] and his -[3384.42 --> 3384.74] cousin -[3384.74 --> 3385.92] instantly -[3385.92 --> 3390.72] you don't -[3390.72 --> 3391.08] know how -[3391.08 --> 3391.58] much time -[3391.58 --> 3392.06] you have -[3392.06 --> 3394.68] don't -[3394.68 --> 3394.96] wait -[3394.96 --> 3398.22] a week -[3398.22 --> 3398.58] later -[3398.58 --> 3399.48] on July -[3399.48 --> 3400.38] 4th -[3400.38 --> 3401.10] some -[3401.10 --> 3401.68] 20 -[3401.68 --> 3401.92] to -[3401.92 --> 3402.20] 30 -[3402.20 --> 3402.44] of -[3402.44 --> 3402.82] us -[3402.82 --> 3403.54] friends -[3403.54 --> 3404.40] flew -[3404.40 --> 3404.72] to -[3404.72 --> 3405.34] Manitoba -[3405.34 --> 3405.88] for the -[3405.88 --> 3406.28] funeral -[3406.28 --> 3406.62] in -[3406.62 --> 3406.94] Carmen -[3406.94 --> 3408.86] and the -[3408.86 --> 3409.34] pastor -[3409.34 --> 3410.24] at -[3410.24 --> 3410.60] Craig's -[3410.60 --> 3411.02] funeral -[3411.02 --> 3412.04] preached -[3412.04 --> 3412.54] a sermon -[3412.54 --> 3413.86] on these -[3413.86 --> 3414.24] words -[3414.24 --> 3417.24] remember -[3417.24 --> 3417.68] your -[3417.68 --> 3418.12] creator -[3418.12 --> 3419.62] in the -[3419.62 --> 3420.00] days -[3420.00 --> 3420.86] of your -[3420.86 --> 3421.22] youth -[3421.22 --> 3422.82] before -[3422.82 --> 3423.08] the -[3423.08 --> 3423.40] days -[3423.40 --> 3423.54] of -[3423.54 --> 3423.86] trouble -[3423.86 --> 3424.86] come -[3424.86 --> 3427.60] remember -[3427.60 --> 3428.44] your -[3428.44 --> 3428.88] creator -[3428.88 --> 3430.02] in the -[3430.02 --> 3430.40] days -[3430.40 --> 3431.36] of -[3431.36 --> 3431.52] your -[3431.52 --> 3431.88] youth -[3431.88 --> 3435.74] we -[3435.74 --> 3436.02] find -[3436.02 --> 3436.42] ourselves -[3436.42 --> 3436.92] in this -[3436.92 --> 3437.48] tension -[3437.48 --> 3438.48] right -[3438.48 --> 3440.24] on the -[3440.24 --> 3440.40] one -[3440.40 --> 3440.76] hand -[3440.76 --> 3441.78] the -[3441.78 --> 3442.04] teacher -[3442.04 --> 3442.48] shows -[3442.48 --> 3442.84] us -[3442.84 --> 3443.10] the -[3443.10 --> 3443.58] joy -[3443.58 --> 3443.78] that -[3443.78 --> 3443.90] we -[3443.90 --> 3444.08] were -[3444.08 --> 3444.36] made -[3444.36 --> 3444.72] for -[3444.72 --> 3447.54] and -[3447.54 --> 3447.66] on -[3447.66 --> 3447.78] the -[3447.78 --> 3448.02] other -[3448.02 --> 3449.48] we -[3449.48 --> 3450.08] experience -[3450.08 --> 3450.34] the -[3450.34 --> 3450.94] fragility -[3450.94 --> 3451.70] of -[3451.70 --> 3452.10] life -[3452.10 --> 3453.04] under -[3453.04 --> 3453.26] the -[3453.26 --> 3453.52] sun -[3453.52 --> 3456.90] teacher -[3456.90 --> 3457.26] also -[3457.26 --> 3457.80] knows -[3457.80 --> 3458.80] that -[3458.80 --> 3458.94] he -[3458.94 --> 3459.34] cannot -[3459.34 --> 3460.02] restore -[3460.02 --> 3460.38] his -[3460.38 --> 3460.90] heart -[3460.90 --> 3462.00] on -[3462.00 --> 3462.16] his -[3462.16 --> 3462.50] own -[3462.50 --> 3464.12] right -[3464.12 --> 3464.22] that -[3464.22 --> 3464.42] the -[3464.42 --> 3464.86] heart -[3464.86 --> 3465.68] aches -[3465.68 --> 3466.20] for -[3466.20 --> 3466.82] lasting -[3466.82 --> 3467.48] delight -[3467.48 --> 3468.24] and -[3468.24 --> 3468.44] yet -[3468.44 --> 3468.90] keeps -[3468.90 --> 3469.64] grasping -[3469.64 --> 3469.86] for -[3469.86 --> 3470.02] what -[3470.02 --> 3470.16] it -[3470.16 --> 3470.56] cannot -[3470.56 --> 3471.44] for -[3471.44 --> 3471.72] what -[3471.72 --> 3472.04] cannot -[3472.04 --> 3472.72] satisfy -[3472.72 --> 3475.10] that -[3475.10 --> 3475.74] restoration -[3475.74 --> 3476.48] that -[3476.48 --> 3477.00] fulfillment -[3477.00 --> 3477.32] that -[3477.32 --> 3477.66] meaning -[3477.66 --> 3477.90] that -[3477.90 --> 3478.14] we -[3478.14 --> 3478.56] are -[3478.56 --> 3478.94] longing -[3478.94 --> 3479.38] for -[3479.38 --> 3480.08] only -[3480.08 --> 3480.74] comes -[3480.74 --> 3481.70] through -[3481.70 --> 3482.72] Jesus -[3482.72 --> 3484.64] through -[3484.64 --> 3485.02] Jesus -[3485.02 --> 3485.32] who -[3485.32 --> 3486.10] remembers -[3486.10 --> 3486.84] us -[3486.84 --> 3487.72] when -[3487.72 --> 3488.12] we -[3488.12 --> 3489.36] forget -[3489.36 --> 3491.06] through -[3491.06 --> 3491.50] Jesus -[3491.50 --> 3491.80] who -[3491.80 --> 3492.60] heals -[3492.60 --> 3493.22] our -[3493.22 --> 3494.02] heart -[3494.02 --> 3494.52] so it -[3494.52 --> 3494.70] can -[3494.70 --> 3495.38] rejoice -[3495.38 --> 3496.42] rightly -[3496.42 --> 3497.10] in -[3497.10 --> 3497.28] its -[3497.28 --> 3497.80] creator -[3497.80 --> 3499.88] Ecclesiastes -[3499.88 --> 3500.50] is -[3500.50 --> 3501.54] confronting -[3501.54 --> 3502.02] us -[3502.02 --> 3502.36] with -[3502.36 --> 3502.72] this -[3502.72 --> 3503.36] hard -[3503.36 --> 3504.08] truth -[3504.08 --> 3506.40] every -[3506.40 --> 3507.00] human -[3507.00 --> 3507.60] being -[3507.60 --> 3509.34] is -[3509.34 --> 3510.26] at -[3510.26 --> 3510.50] your -[3510.50 --> 3510.96] core -[3510.96 --> 3511.86] a -[3511.86 --> 3512.60] rejoicer -[3512.60 --> 3513.72] a -[3513.72 --> 3514.34] worshiper -[3514.34 --> 3515.42] and -[3515.42 --> 3515.74] God -[3515.74 --> 3515.96] has -[3515.96 --> 3516.32] made -[3516.32 --> 3516.60] us -[3516.60 --> 3516.78] to -[3516.78 --> 3517.32] delight -[3517.32 --> 3517.94] in -[3517.94 --> 3518.28] him -[3518.28 --> 3518.48] to -[3518.48 --> 3518.80] find -[3518.80 --> 3519.34] joy -[3519.34 --> 3519.80] in -[3519.80 --> 3520.02] him -[3520.02 --> 3520.20] to -[3520.20 --> 3520.46] lift -[3520.46 --> 3520.66] our -[3520.66 --> 3521.06] hearts -[3521.06 --> 3521.50] towards -[3521.50 --> 3521.94] him -[3521.94 --> 3522.52] in -[3522.52 --> 3523.08] worship -[3523.08 --> 3525.00] but -[3525.00 --> 3525.26] because -[3525.26 --> 3525.44] of -[3525.44 --> 3525.76] sin -[3525.76 --> 3526.36] because -[3526.36 --> 3526.66] of -[3526.66 --> 3527.22] the -[3527.22 --> 3527.68] rebellion -[3527.68 --> 3528.04] of -[3528.04 --> 3528.34] Adam -[3528.34 --> 3528.48] and -[3528.48 --> 3528.70] Eve -[3528.70 --> 3528.86] in -[3528.86 --> 3528.98] the -[3528.98 --> 3529.26] garden -[3529.26 --> 3529.46] and -[3529.46 --> 3529.82] because -[3529.82 --> 3530.28] of -[3530.28 --> 3530.48] how -[3530.48 --> 3530.70] we -[3530.70 --> 3531.08] live -[3531.08 --> 3531.40] out -[3531.40 --> 3531.70] that -[3531.70 --> 3532.18] rebellion -[3532.18 --> 3532.48] in -[3532.48 --> 3532.62] our -[3532.62 --> 3532.84] own -[3532.84 --> 3533.16] lives -[3533.16 --> 3533.44] day -[3533.44 --> 3533.72] in -[3533.72 --> 3534.10] and -[3534.10 --> 3534.32] day -[3534.32 --> 3534.56] out -[3534.56 --> 3534.94] the -[3534.94 --> 3535.84] rejoicer -[3535.84 --> 3536.60] right -[3536.60 --> 3536.76] the -[3536.76 --> 3537.38] heart -[3537.38 --> 3537.86] as -[3537.86 --> 3538.62] worshiper -[3538.62 --> 3539.78] as -[3539.78 --> 3540.30] worshipping -[3540.30 --> 3540.82] organ -[3540.82 --> 3541.60] your -[3541.60 --> 3542.34] rejoicer -[3542.34 --> 3542.88] now -[3542.88 --> 3543.16] is -[3543.16 --> 3543.68] broken -[3543.68 --> 3546.12] let me -[3546.12 --> 3546.42] be really -[3546.42 --> 3546.62] clear -[3546.62 --> 3546.88] because -[3546.88 --> 3547.12] a -[3547.12 --> 3547.44] broken -[3547.44 --> 3548.12] rejoicer -[3548.12 --> 3548.42] is -[3548.42 --> 3548.90] not -[3548.90 --> 3549.14] a -[3549.14 --> 3549.36] heart -[3549.36 --> 3549.60] that -[3549.60 --> 3549.98] can't -[3549.98 --> 3550.26] feel -[3550.26 --> 3550.70] joy -[3550.70 --> 3552.66] it's -[3552.66 --> 3552.80] a -[3552.80 --> 3553.18] heart -[3553.18 --> 3553.52] that -[3553.52 --> 3554.14] worships -[3554.14 --> 3554.28] the -[3554.28 --> 3554.50] wrong -[3554.50 --> 3555.04] things -[3555.04 --> 3556.12] that -[3556.12 --> 3556.56] feels -[3556.56 --> 3557.18] joy -[3557.18 --> 3558.14] in -[3558.14 --> 3558.56] something -[3558.56 --> 3559.24] other -[3559.24 --> 3559.64] than -[3559.64 --> 3559.78] the -[3559.78 --> 3559.94] one -[3559.94 --> 3560.12] for -[3560.12 --> 3560.32] whom -[3560.32 --> 3560.46] you -[3560.46 --> 3560.60] were -[3560.60 --> 3561.02] created -[3561.02 --> 3561.54] the -[3561.54 --> 3562.02] heart -[3562.02 --> 3562.32] a -[3562.32 --> 3562.62] broken -[3562.62 --> 3563.26] rejoicer -[3563.26 --> 3563.50] is -[3563.50 --> 3564.30] bent -[3564.30 --> 3564.66] in -[3564.66 --> 3564.80] the -[3564.80 --> 3565.04] wrong -[3565.04 --> 3565.58] direction -[3565.58 --> 3566.64] and -[3566.64 --> 3566.74] so -[3566.74 --> 3566.90] it -[3566.90 --> 3567.16] reaches -[3567.16 --> 3567.44] for -[3567.44 --> 3567.80] youth -[3567.80 --> 3568.16] or -[3568.16 --> 3568.34] for -[3568.34 --> 3568.66] beauty -[3568.66 --> 3569.04] or -[3569.04 --> 3569.70] achievement -[3569.70 --> 3570.14] or -[3570.14 --> 3570.74] control -[3570.74 --> 3571.78] it -[3571.78 --> 3572.16] reaches -[3572.16 --> 3572.40] for -[3572.40 --> 3572.58] the -[3572.58 --> 3573.08] box -[3573.08 --> 3574.58] and -[3574.58 --> 3575.34] demands -[3575.34 --> 3575.74] of -[3575.74 --> 3576.00] it -[3576.00 --> 3577.12] things -[3577.12 --> 3577.56] that -[3577.56 --> 3579.62] only -[3579.62 --> 3580.58] God -[3580.58 --> 3581.20] can -[3581.20 --> 3581.86] satisfy -[3581.86 --> 3583.50] it -[3583.50 --> 3583.86] clings -[3583.86 --> 3584.18] to what -[3584.18 --> 3584.32] is -[3584.32 --> 3584.80] fleeting -[3584.80 --> 3585.06] and -[3585.06 --> 3585.54] expects -[3585.54 --> 3585.78] it -[3585.78 --> 3586.00] to -[3586.00 --> 3586.44] last -[3586.44 --> 3587.20] forever -[3587.20 --> 3587.92] the -[3587.92 --> 3588.60] rejoicer -[3588.60 --> 3589.00] organ -[3589.00 --> 3589.32] in -[3589.32 --> 3589.58] your -[3589.58 --> 3590.54] heart -[3590.54 --> 3590.92] as -[3590.92 --> 3591.12] your -[3591.12 --> 3591.50] heart -[3591.50 --> 3591.74] was -[3591.74 --> 3592.10] made -[3592.10 --> 3592.44] for -[3592.44 --> 3592.92] God -[3592.92 --> 3593.38] but -[3593.38 --> 3593.50] it -[3593.50 --> 3593.68] has -[3593.68 --> 3593.94] been -[3593.94 --> 3595.18] mis-aimed -[3595.18 --> 3595.38] and -[3595.38 --> 3595.66] as -[3595.66 --> 3595.80] a -[3595.80 --> 3596.18] result -[3596.18 --> 3596.46] it -[3596.46 --> 3596.78] cannot -[3596.78 --> 3597.36] find -[3597.36 --> 3598.32] rest -[3598.32 --> 3600.12] but -[3600.12 --> 3600.30] that's -[3600.30 --> 3600.42] the -[3600.42 --> 3600.58] good -[3600.58 --> 3601.02] news -[3601.02 --> 3602.48] right -[3602.48 --> 3602.64] the -[3602.64 --> 3602.84] good -[3602.84 --> 3603.10] news -[3603.10 --> 3603.20] of -[3603.20 --> 3603.32] the -[3603.32 --> 3603.66] gospel -[3603.66 --> 3603.90] is -[3603.90 --> 3604.06] that -[3604.06 --> 3604.64] Jesus -[3604.64 --> 3605.08] comes -[3605.08 --> 3605.32] to -[3605.32 --> 3605.96] restore -[3605.96 --> 3606.24] the -[3606.24 --> 3606.62] broken -[3606.62 --> 3607.46] rejoicer -[3607.46 --> 3607.82] that -[3607.82 --> 3607.96] he -[3607.96 --> 3608.36] lived -[3608.36 --> 3608.56] the -[3608.56 --> 3608.82] life -[3608.82 --> 3608.98] that -[3608.98 --> 3609.12] we -[3609.12 --> 3609.32] were -[3609.32 --> 3609.78] made -[3609.78 --> 3610.04] for -[3610.04 --> 3610.28] in -[3610.28 --> 3610.62] perfect -[3610.62 --> 3611.06] trust -[3611.06 --> 3611.26] and -[3611.26 --> 3611.68] glory -[3611.68 --> 3612.18] to -[3612.18 --> 3612.32] the -[3612.32 --> 3612.58] father -[3612.58 --> 3612.78] he -[3612.78 --> 3613.16] died -[3613.16 --> 3613.34] the -[3613.34 --> 3613.58] death -[3613.58 --> 3613.94] that -[3613.94 --> 3614.12] we -[3614.12 --> 3614.56] deserve -[3614.56 --> 3614.80] for -[3614.80 --> 3615.10] all -[3615.10 --> 3615.26] the -[3615.26 --> 3615.58] ways -[3615.58 --> 3615.96] that -[3615.96 --> 3616.10] we -[3616.10 --> 3616.50] forget -[3616.50 --> 3616.80] and -[3616.80 --> 3617.28] misplace -[3617.28 --> 3617.54] and -[3617.54 --> 3618.04] misdirect -[3618.04 --> 3618.52] our -[3618.52 --> 3618.86] delight -[3618.86 --> 3619.10] and -[3619.10 --> 3619.40] in -[3619.40 --> 3619.82] his -[3619.82 --> 3620.70] resurrection -[3620.70 --> 3621.54] by -[3621.54 --> 3622.00] his -[3622.00 --> 3622.42] holy -[3622.42 --> 3623.06] spirit -[3623.06 --> 3623.28] he -[3623.28 --> 3623.62] gives -[3623.62 --> 3623.88] us -[3623.88 --> 3624.10] a -[3624.10 --> 3624.40] new -[3624.40 --> 3625.02] heart -[3625.02 --> 3625.22] a -[3625.22 --> 3625.50] heart -[3625.50 --> 3625.70] that -[3625.70 --> 3625.88] can -[3625.88 --> 3626.46] actually -[3626.46 --> 3627.50] willfully -[3627.50 --> 3628.58] desirously -[3628.58 --> 3629.54] remember -[3629.54 --> 3630.42] God -[3630.42 --> 3630.76] that -[3630.76 --> 3630.92] can -[3630.92 --> 3631.52] rejoice -[3631.52 --> 3632.32] rightly -[3632.32 --> 3632.84] and -[3632.84 --> 3633.16] live -[3633.16 --> 3633.72] fully -[3633.72 --> 3633.98] in -[3633.98 --> 3634.14] the -[3634.14 --> 3634.46] life -[3634.46 --> 3634.68] that -[3634.68 --> 3634.92] you -[3634.92 --> 3635.16] were -[3635.16 --> 3635.66] created -[3635.66 --> 3636.02] to -[3636.02 --> 3636.46] enjoy -[3636.46 --> 3638.10] and -[3638.10 --> 3638.36] through -[3638.36 --> 3638.88] Jesus -[3638.88 --> 3639.50] the -[3639.50 --> 3639.92] joys -[3639.92 --> 3640.10] of -[3640.10 --> 3640.36] life -[3640.36 --> 3640.56] are -[3640.56 --> 3640.76] no -[3640.76 --> 3641.12] longer -[3641.12 --> 3641.68] fragile -[3641.68 --> 3642.32] illusions -[3642.32 --> 3642.68] but -[3642.68 --> 3643.18] gifts -[3643.18 --> 3643.84] from -[3643.84 --> 3644.20] your -[3644.20 --> 3644.68] creator -[3644.68 --> 3645.34] God -[3645.34 --> 3645.56] the -[3645.56 --> 3645.86] giver -[3645.86 --> 3646.12] of -[3646.12 --> 3646.70] life -[3646.70 --> 3646.90] the -[3646.90 --> 3647.30] strength -[3647.30 --> 3647.48] that -[3647.48 --> 3647.60] we -[3647.60 --> 3647.98] rely -[3647.98 --> 3648.24] on -[3648.24 --> 3648.38] is -[3648.38 --> 3648.56] no -[3648.56 --> 3648.86] longer -[3648.86 --> 3649.12] our -[3649.12 --> 3649.52] own -[3649.52 --> 3649.72] but -[3649.72 --> 3649.92] is -[3649.92 --> 3650.44] his -[3650.44 --> 3651.02] in -[3651.02 --> 3651.28] fact -[3651.28 --> 3651.46] the -[3651.46 --> 3651.88] security -[3651.88 --> 3652.12] that -[3652.12 --> 3652.26] we -[3652.26 --> 3652.58] crave -[3652.58 --> 3652.76] is -[3652.76 --> 3652.94] no -[3652.94 --> 3653.22] longer -[3653.22 --> 3653.54] built -[3653.54 --> 3653.78] on -[3653.78 --> 3654.42] fleeting -[3654.42 --> 3654.94] things -[3654.94 --> 3655.12] but -[3655.12 --> 3655.40] rather -[3655.40 --> 3655.96] built -[3655.96 --> 3656.28] on -[3656.28 --> 3656.50] the -[3656.50 --> 3657.04] sovereign -[3657.04 --> 3657.66] will -[3657.66 --> 3657.96] of -[3657.96 --> 3658.26] our -[3658.26 --> 3658.62] God -[3658.62 --> 3658.88] our -[3658.88 --> 3659.38] hearts -[3659.38 --> 3661.78] are -[3661.78 --> 3662.34] restored -[3662.34 --> 3662.94] to -[3662.94 --> 3663.52] worship -[3663.52 --> 3665.94] and -[3665.94 --> 3666.34] worship -[3666.34 --> 3667.56] becomes -[3667.56 --> 3667.82] the -[3667.82 --> 3668.18] rhythm -[3668.18 --> 3669.02] of -[3669.02 --> 3669.18] our -[3669.18 --> 3669.68] lives -[3669.68 --> 3670.44] even -[3670.44 --> 3670.78] as our -[3670.78 --> 3671.16] bodies -[3671.16 --> 3672.14] age -[3672.14 --> 3672.40] even -[3672.40 --> 3672.58] as -[3672.58 --> 3672.76] our -[3672.76 --> 3673.22] plans -[3673.22 --> 3673.86] falter -[3673.86 --> 3674.50] even -[3674.50 --> 3674.82] as -[3674.82 --> 3675.02] the -[3675.02 --> 3675.38] world -[3675.38 --> 3676.28] changes -[3676.28 --> 3677.06] around -[3677.06 --> 3677.50] us -[3677.50 --> 3678.48] the -[3678.48 --> 3678.94] gospel -[3678.94 --> 3679.64] is -[3679.64 --> 3679.78] a -[3679.78 --> 3680.30] promise -[3680.30 --> 3681.62] you -[3681.62 --> 3682.10] can -[3682.10 --> 3682.78] remember -[3682.78 --> 3683.44] your -[3683.44 --> 3684.02] creator -[3684.02 --> 3684.52] because -[3684.52 --> 3684.92] your -[3684.92 --> 3685.54] creator -[3685.54 --> 3686.22] has -[3686.22 --> 3686.92] remembered -[3686.92 --> 3687.70] you -[3687.70 --> 3689.66] in -[3689.66 --> 3690.20] Christ -[3690.20 --> 3690.56] the -[3690.56 --> 3691.36] rejoicer -[3691.36 --> 3691.98] is -[3691.98 --> 3692.40] healed -[3692.40 --> 3693.28] and -[3693.28 --> 3693.42] the -[3693.42 --> 3693.70] joy -[3693.70 --> 3693.88] that -[3693.88 --> 3694.00] you -[3694.00 --> 3694.14] were -[3694.14 --> 3694.42] made -[3694.42 --> 3694.68] for -[3694.68 --> 3695.26] finally -[3695.26 --> 3695.80] flows -[3695.80 --> 3695.98] to -[3695.98 --> 3696.14] its -[3696.14 --> 3696.46] proper -[3696.46 --> 3696.78] end -[3696.78 --> 3697.22] towards -[3697.22 --> 3697.46] the -[3697.46 --> 3697.70] one -[3697.70 --> 3698.16] who -[3698.16 --> 3698.48] made -[3698.48 --> 3698.98] us -[3698.98 --> 3700.22] and -[3700.22 --> 3700.40] that -[3700.40 --> 3700.90] means -[3700.90 --> 3701.18] we -[3701.18 --> 3701.40] can -[3701.40 --> 3701.90] now -[3701.90 --> 3702.64] obey -[3702.64 --> 3702.86] the -[3702.86 --> 3703.32] teacher's -[3703.32 --> 3703.72] command -[3703.72 --> 3704.00] with -[3704.00 --> 3704.12] a -[3704.12 --> 3704.28] measure -[3704.28 --> 3704.42] of -[3704.42 --> 3705.02] confidence -[3705.02 --> 3705.62] to -[3705.62 --> 3706.20] remember -[3706.20 --> 3706.52] your -[3706.52 --> 3706.96] creator -[3706.96 --> 3707.18] in -[3707.18 --> 3707.30] the -[3707.30 --> 3707.60] days -[3707.60 --> 3707.78] of -[3707.78 --> 3707.90] your -[3707.90 --> 3708.14] youth -[3708.14 --> 3708.54] to -[3708.54 --> 3709.00] rejoice -[3709.00 --> 3709.28] in -[3709.28 --> 3709.72] him -[3709.72 --> 3710.20] and -[3710.20 --> 3710.46] not -[3710.46 --> 3710.72] in -[3710.72 --> 3711.10] things -[3711.10 --> 3711.32] that -[3711.32 --> 3711.46] will -[3711.46 --> 3711.82] fade -[3711.82 --> 3713.64] that's -[3713.64 --> 3713.76] the -[3713.76 --> 3713.92] big -[3713.92 --> 3714.16] idea -[3714.16 --> 3714.40] that's -[3714.40 --> 3714.54] the -[3714.54 --> 3714.92] purpose -[3714.92 --> 3715.44] of -[3715.44 --> 3715.64] all -[3715.64 --> 3715.78] of -[3715.78 --> 3715.98] this -[3715.98 --> 3716.18] right -[3716.18 --> 3716.60] before -[3716.60 --> 3717.26] life -[3717.26 --> 3717.88] fades -[3717.88 --> 3718.44] remember -[3718.44 --> 3719.02] your -[3719.02 --> 3719.68] creator -[3719.68 --> 3721.48] and -[3721.48 --> 3721.78] only -[3721.78 --> 3721.98] a -[3721.98 --> 3722.30] life -[3722.30 --> 3722.76] lived -[3722.76 --> 3722.98] in -[3722.98 --> 3723.42] reverent -[3723.42 --> 3724.06] relationship -[3724.06 --> 3724.30] to -[3724.30 --> 3724.70] him -[3724.70 --> 3725.84] endures -[3725.84 --> 3726.14] when -[3726.14 --> 3726.54] all -[3726.54 --> 3727.00] else -[3727.00 --> 3727.58] is -[3727.58 --> 3728.74] havel -[3728.74 --> 3729.52] when -[3729.52 --> 3729.74] all -[3729.74 --> 3730.04] else -[3730.04 --> 3730.38] is -[3730.38 --> 3731.00] meaningless -[3731.00 --> 3732.32] meaningless -[3732.32 --> 3734.02] enigmas -[3734.02 --> 3734.76] of -[3734.76 --> 3735.28] enigmas -[3735.28 --> 3735.48] when -[3735.48 --> 3735.68] all -[3735.68 --> 3736.02] else -[3736.02 --> 3736.40] is -[3736.40 --> 3737.32] vanity -[3737.32 --> 3738.50] in -[3738.50 --> 3739.04] Christ -[3739.04 --> 3740.22] what -[3740.22 --> 3740.68] once -[3740.68 --> 3741.28] felt -[3741.28 --> 3742.06] empty -[3742.06 --> 3743.10] now -[3743.10 --> 3743.80] has -[3743.80 --> 3744.58] meaning -[3744.58 --> 3746.40] in -[3746.40 --> 3746.90] Christ -[3746.90 --> 3747.14] what -[3747.14 --> 3747.52] once -[3747.52 --> 3748.18] passed -[3748.18 --> 3748.66] away -[3748.66 --> 3749.24] now -[3749.24 --> 3749.74] points -[3749.74 --> 3749.98] to -[3749.98 --> 3750.20] what -[3750.20 --> 3750.84] lasts -[3750.84 --> 3751.48] and -[3751.48 --> 3751.66] our -[3751.66 --> 3752.06] hearts -[3752.06 --> 3752.30] can -[3752.30 --> 3753.04] finally -[3753.04 --> 3754.12] rejoice -[3754.12 --> 3755.06] in -[3755.06 --> 3755.76] the -[3755.76 --> 3756.16] giver -[3756.16 --> 3756.98] rather -[3756.98 --> 3757.38] than -[3757.38 --> 3758.08] in -[3758.08 --> 3758.20] the -[3758.20 --> 3758.48] gifts -[3758.48 --> 3760.00] or -[3760.00 --> 3760.54] rather -[3760.54 --> 3760.86] than -[3760.86 --> 3761.08] in -[3761.08 --> 3761.20] the -[3761.20 --> 3761.62] box -[3761.62 --> 3762.10] the -[3762.10 --> 3762.42] gifts -[3762.42 --> 3763.16] come -[3763.16 --> 3763.34] in -[3763.34 --> 3765.92] and -[3765.92 --> 3766.24] so -[3766.24 --> 3767.36] the -[3767.36 --> 3767.72] question -[3767.72 --> 3768.16] as we -[3768.16 --> 3768.76] land -[3768.76 --> 3769.20] this -[3769.20 --> 3769.76] plane -[3769.76 --> 3770.12] as we -[3770.12 --> 3770.36] end -[3770.36 --> 3770.70] this -[3770.70 --> 3771.50] series -[3771.50 --> 3771.80] is -[3771.80 --> 3772.08] how -[3772.08 --> 3772.36] do -[3772.36 --> 3772.66] we -[3772.66 --> 3773.34] actually -[3773.34 --> 3774.18] remember -[3774.18 --> 3775.18] our -[3775.18 --> 3775.80] creator -[3775.80 --> 3776.12] how -[3776.12 --> 3776.32] do -[3776.32 --> 3776.52] we -[3776.52 --> 3777.18] take -[3777.18 --> 3777.62] this -[3777.62 --> 3778.06] big -[3778.06 --> 3778.66] idea -[3778.66 --> 3779.74] from -[3779.74 --> 3780.54] our -[3780.54 --> 3781.04] heads -[3781.04 --> 3781.46] and -[3781.46 --> 3781.74] our -[3781.74 --> 3782.24] hearts -[3782.24 --> 3783.02] into -[3783.02 --> 3784.10] the -[3784.10 --> 3784.88] daily -[3784.88 --> 3785.92] lives -[3785.92 --> 3786.30] that -[3786.30 --> 3786.40] we -[3786.40 --> 3786.70] live -[3786.70 --> 3789.34] ecclesiastes -[3789.34 --> 3790.00] doesn't -[3790.00 --> 3790.68] leave us -[3790.68 --> 3790.92] with -[3790.92 --> 3791.64] abstract -[3791.64 --> 3792.36] wisdom -[3792.36 --> 3792.62] in -[3792.62 --> 3792.80] fact -[3792.80 --> 3793.20] in -[3793.20 --> 3793.30] a -[3793.30 --> 3793.54] biblical -[3793.54 --> 3794.00] sense -[3794.00 --> 3794.90] abstract -[3794.90 --> 3795.44] wisdom -[3795.44 --> 3796.22] is an -[3796.22 --> 3796.98] oxymoron -[3796.98 --> 3797.88] wisdom -[3797.88 --> 3798.68] is always -[3798.68 --> 3799.26] lived and -[3799.26 --> 3799.72] practical -[3799.72 --> 3800.50] there's -[3800.50 --> 3800.78] nothing -[3800.78 --> 3801.18] abstract -[3801.18 --> 3801.52] about -[3801.52 --> 3802.20] it -[3802.20 --> 3803.58] in -[3803.58 --> 3804.22] ecclesiastes -[3804.22 --> 3804.66] we are -[3804.66 --> 3805.02] pointed -[3805.02 --> 3805.42] towards -[3805.42 --> 3805.88] habits -[3805.88 --> 3806.16] and -[3806.16 --> 3806.60] practices -[3806.60 --> 3806.92] and -[3806.92 --> 3807.36] rhythms -[3807.36 --> 3807.68] that -[3807.68 --> 3808.06] shape -[3808.06 --> 3808.56] our -[3808.56 --> 3809.34] hearts -[3809.34 --> 3810.16] and -[3810.16 --> 3810.30] so -[3810.30 --> 3810.52] here -[3810.52 --> 3810.64] are -[3810.64 --> 3810.86] three -[3810.86 --> 3811.30] ways -[3811.30 --> 3811.48] that -[3811.48 --> 3811.58] we -[3811.58 --> 3811.74] can -[3811.74 --> 3812.14] live -[3812.14 --> 3813.04] as -[3813.04 --> 3813.78] restored -[3813.78 --> 3814.80] rejoicers -[3814.80 --> 3815.96] one -[3815.96 --> 3817.78] deepen -[3817.78 --> 3818.42] your -[3818.42 --> 3819.14] remembering -[3819.14 --> 3820.06] through -[3820.06 --> 3820.78] reflection -[3820.78 --> 3821.60] and -[3821.60 --> 3822.10] gratitude -[3822.10 --> 3824.46] memory -[3824.46 --> 3825.20] shapes -[3825.20 --> 3825.44] your -[3825.44 --> 3825.74] heart -[3825.74 --> 3827.20] and -[3827.20 --> 3827.34] so -[3827.34 --> 3827.58] take -[3827.58 --> 3828.02] time -[3828.02 --> 3828.42] to -[3828.42 --> 3828.80] recall -[3828.80 --> 3829.22] what -[3829.22 --> 3829.46] God -[3829.46 --> 3829.64] has -[3829.64 --> 3829.84] done -[3829.84 --> 3830.08] for -[3830.08 --> 3830.30] you -[3830.30 --> 3831.36] in -[3831.36 --> 3831.52] your -[3831.52 --> 3831.92] life -[3831.92 --> 3832.26] and -[3832.26 --> 3832.48] in -[3832.48 --> 3832.82] scripture -[3832.82 --> 3833.58] and -[3833.58 --> 3834.04] most -[3834.04 --> 3834.70] profoundly -[3834.70 --> 3835.08] in -[3835.08 --> 3835.50] Christ -[3835.50 --> 3837.14] and -[3837.14 --> 3837.28] so -[3837.28 --> 3837.64] try -[3837.64 --> 3838.38] journaling -[3838.38 --> 3838.72] or -[3838.72 --> 3839.30] meditating -[3839.30 --> 3839.72] on -[3839.72 --> 3840.06] scripture -[3840.06 --> 3840.58] or -[3840.58 --> 3840.98] simply -[3840.98 --> 3841.58] pausing -[3841.58 --> 3841.92] to -[3841.92 --> 3842.36] pray -[3842.36 --> 3842.80] each -[3842.80 --> 3843.26] day -[3843.26 --> 3844.24] in -[3844.24 --> 3844.38] a -[3844.38 --> 3844.64] way -[3844.64 --> 3844.92] that -[3844.92 --> 3845.54] says -[3845.54 --> 3846.64] God -[3846.64 --> 3847.22] you -[3847.22 --> 3847.62] are -[3847.62 --> 3848.32] good -[3848.32 --> 3849.02] in -[3849.02 --> 3849.20] a way -[3849.20 --> 3849.38] that -[3849.38 --> 3849.84] notices -[3849.84 --> 3850.24] his -[3850.24 --> 3850.70] gifts -[3850.70 --> 3851.22] and -[3851.22 --> 3851.42] his -[3851.42 --> 3852.04] faithfulness -[3852.04 --> 3852.20] to -[3852.20 --> 3852.38] you -[3852.38 --> 3853.04] gratitude -[3853.04 --> 3853.58] is -[3853.58 --> 3853.80] the -[3853.80 --> 3854.30] natural -[3854.30 --> 3855.34] response -[3855.34 --> 3856.20] of a -[3856.20 --> 3856.86] rejoicer -[3856.86 --> 3857.34] that -[3857.34 --> 3857.54] has -[3857.54 --> 3857.72] been -[3857.72 --> 3858.58] re-aimed -[3858.58 --> 3859.14] towards -[3859.14 --> 3859.68] God -[3859.68 --> 3860.42] and -[3860.42 --> 3860.56] so -[3860.56 --> 3860.88] ask -[3860.88 --> 3861.36] yourself -[3861.36 --> 3862.40] what -[3862.40 --> 3862.52] has -[3862.52 --> 3862.70] God -[3862.70 --> 3862.94] given -[3862.94 --> 3863.08] me -[3863.08 --> 3863.40] today -[3863.40 --> 3864.68] how -[3864.68 --> 3864.88] has -[3864.88 --> 3864.98] he -[3864.98 --> 3865.14] been -[3865.14 --> 3865.56] faithful -[3865.56 --> 3866.08] this -[3866.08 --> 3866.38] week -[3866.38 --> 3868.50] second -[3868.50 --> 3869.26] strengthen -[3869.26 --> 3869.82] your -[3869.82 --> 3870.42] remembering -[3870.42 --> 3870.92] through -[3870.92 --> 3871.40] worship -[3871.40 --> 3872.24] and -[3872.24 --> 3872.58] rhythm -[3872.58 --> 3874.02] remembering -[3874.02 --> 3874.38] is -[3874.38 --> 3875.32] strengthened -[3875.32 --> 3876.08] when it -[3876.08 --> 3876.44] becomes -[3876.44 --> 3877.02] a regular -[3877.02 --> 3877.54] part -[3877.54 --> 3878.16] of life -[3878.16 --> 3878.50] not -[3878.50 --> 3878.84] just -[3878.84 --> 3879.04] a -[3879.04 --> 3879.34] fleeting -[3879.34 --> 3879.80] thought -[3879.80 --> 3881.98] so -[3881.98 --> 3882.44] corporate -[3882.44 --> 3882.88] worship -[3882.88 --> 3883.42] personal -[3883.42 --> 3883.88] devotion -[3883.88 --> 3884.30] family -[3884.30 --> 3884.72] devotion -[3884.72 --> 3885.18] singing -[3885.18 --> 3885.46] and -[3885.46 --> 3885.84] prayer -[3885.84 --> 3886.66] participation -[3886.66 --> 3887.56] in the -[3887.56 --> 3888.10] sacraments -[3888.10 --> 3888.26] are -[3888.26 --> 3888.66] all -[3888.66 --> 3889.08] ways -[3889.08 --> 3889.30] that -[3889.30 --> 3889.46] we -[3889.46 --> 3890.22] practice -[3890.22 --> 3891.04] remembering -[3891.04 --> 3893.22] and -[3893.22 --> 3893.44] these -[3893.44 --> 3893.90] rhythms -[3893.90 --> 3894.52] train -[3894.52 --> 3894.82] the -[3894.82 --> 3895.24] heart -[3895.24 --> 3895.72] to -[3895.72 --> 3896.08] return -[3896.08 --> 3896.30] to -[3896.30 --> 3896.68] God -[3896.68 --> 3897.52] even -[3897.52 --> 3898.24] or -[3898.24 --> 3898.90] especially -[3898.90 --> 3899.40] when -[3899.40 --> 3899.70] life -[3899.70 --> 3900.08] feels -[3900.08 --> 3900.80] ordinary -[3900.80 --> 3901.72] or -[3901.72 --> 3902.18] chaotic -[3902.18 --> 3903.36] and -[3903.36 --> 3903.48] the -[3903.48 --> 3903.68] more -[3903.68 --> 3903.94] often -[3903.94 --> 3904.14] we -[3904.14 --> 3904.56] practice -[3904.56 --> 3904.98] the -[3904.98 --> 3905.28] more -[3905.28 --> 3906.34] automatic -[3906.34 --> 3907.02] our -[3907.02 --> 3907.74] remembering -[3907.74 --> 3908.62] becomes -[3908.62 --> 3910.00] and -[3910.00 --> 3910.10] when -[3910.10 --> 3910.38] these -[3910.38 --> 3911.36] practices -[3911.36 --> 3911.96] become -[3911.96 --> 3912.52] automatic -[3912.52 --> 3913.24] whether -[3913.24 --> 3913.52] the -[3913.52 --> 3913.94] storm -[3913.94 --> 3914.50] comes -[3914.50 --> 3914.80] or -[3914.80 --> 3915.00] the -[3915.00 --> 3915.36] ordinary -[3915.36 --> 3916.08] comes -[3916.08 --> 3916.80] turning -[3916.80 --> 3917.08] to -[3917.08 --> 3917.46] God -[3917.46 --> 3917.66] in -[3917.66 --> 3917.86] those -[3917.86 --> 3918.26] moments -[3918.26 --> 3918.58] is -[3918.58 --> 3918.80] our -[3918.80 --> 3919.20] first -[3919.20 --> 3919.76] instinct -[3919.76 --> 3920.66] instead -[3920.66 --> 3920.80] of -[3920.80 --> 3920.92] our -[3920.92 --> 3921.20] last -[3921.20 --> 3921.54] resort -[3921.54 --> 3923.08] and -[3923.08 --> 3923.20] so -[3923.20 --> 3923.48] ask -[3923.48 --> 3923.82] yourself -[3923.82 --> 3924.98] how do -[3924.98 --> 3925.28] I put -[3925.28 --> 3925.62] myself -[3925.62 --> 3925.82] in -[3925.82 --> 3926.14] places -[3926.14 --> 3926.42] to -[3926.42 --> 3926.64] make -[3926.64 --> 3927.24] remembering -[3927.24 --> 3928.44] easier -[3928.44 --> 3930.82] and -[3930.82 --> 3931.02] maybe -[3931.02 --> 3931.42] reflect -[3931.42 --> 3931.72] do I -[3931.72 --> 3931.86] need -[3931.86 --> 3932.00] to -[3932.00 --> 3932.36] join -[3932.36 --> 3933.32] a -[3933.32 --> 3933.60] worship -[3933.60 --> 3933.98] night -[3933.98 --> 3934.84] a -[3934.84 --> 3935.10] small -[3935.10 --> 3935.46] group -[3935.46 --> 3935.96] a -[3935.96 --> 3936.22] Bible -[3936.22 --> 3936.62] study -[3936.62 --> 3937.86] community -[3937.86 --> 3938.20] of -[3938.20 --> 3938.52] faith -[3938.52 --> 3939.34] that -[3939.34 --> 3939.50] will -[3939.50 --> 3939.90] help -[3939.90 --> 3940.50] me -[3940.50 --> 3941.64] strengthen -[3941.64 --> 3942.58] my -[3942.58 --> 3943.06] remembering -[3943.06 --> 3944.48] and -[3944.48 --> 3944.64] then -[3944.64 --> 3944.92] third -[3944.92 --> 3946.92] actualize -[3946.92 --> 3947.20] make -[3947.20 --> 3947.76] real -[3947.76 --> 3948.38] your -[3948.38 --> 3949.10] remembering -[3949.10 --> 3949.56] in -[3949.56 --> 3950.14] everyday -[3950.14 --> 3951.30] choices -[3951.30 --> 3952.26] right -[3952.26 --> 3952.56] we said -[3952.56 --> 3952.72] this -[3952.72 --> 3953.14] remembering -[3953.14 --> 3953.76] is not -[3953.76 --> 3954.08] just -[3954.08 --> 3954.90] reflective -[3954.90 --> 3955.84] it -[3955.84 --> 3956.22] shapes -[3956.22 --> 3956.46] how -[3956.46 --> 3956.68] we -[3956.68 --> 3956.98] live -[3956.98 --> 3958.44] and -[3958.44 --> 3958.56] so -[3958.56 --> 3958.86] ask -[3958.86 --> 3959.12] how -[3959.12 --> 3959.28] do -[3959.28 --> 3959.54] my -[3959.54 --> 3960.32] words -[3960.32 --> 3960.72] my -[3960.72 --> 3961.18] work -[3961.18 --> 3961.50] and -[3961.50 --> 3961.72] my -[3961.72 --> 3962.36] relationships -[3962.36 --> 3963.16] reflect -[3963.16 --> 3963.40] the -[3963.40 --> 3963.84] God -[3963.84 --> 3964.30] I -[3964.30 --> 3964.66] remember -[3964.66 --> 3964.88] and -[3964.88 --> 3965.18] here's -[3965.18 --> 3965.28] what -[3965.28 --> 3965.36] I -[3965.36 --> 3965.46] mean -[3965.46 --> 3965.60] with -[3965.60 --> 3965.78] that -[3965.78 --> 3967.02] maybe -[3967.02 --> 3968.06] instead -[3968.06 --> 3968.44] of -[3968.44 --> 3969.06] looking -[3969.06 --> 3969.52] to -[3969.52 --> 3970.26] self -[3970.26 --> 3971.06] protection -[3971.06 --> 3971.60] or -[3971.60 --> 3972.06] to -[3972.06 --> 3972.48] growing -[3972.48 --> 3972.80] your -[3972.80 --> 3973.30] brand -[3973.30 --> 3973.52] or -[3973.52 --> 3973.88] whatever -[3973.88 --> 3974.42] language -[3974.42 --> 3974.64] you -[3974.64 --> 3974.82] want -[3974.82 --> 3974.92] to -[3974.92 --> 3975.30] use -[3975.30 --> 3976.02] maybe -[3976.02 --> 3977.12] adopt -[3977.12 --> 3978.16] generosity -[3978.16 --> 3981.36] what -[3981.36 --> 3981.46] does -[3981.46 --> 3981.56] it -[3981.56 --> 3981.72] look -[3981.72 --> 3981.98] like -[3981.98 --> 3982.28] to -[3982.28 --> 3983.08] practice -[3983.08 --> 3983.92] patience -[3983.92 --> 3985.28] in the -[3985.28 --> 3985.50] place -[3985.50 --> 3985.62] of -[3985.62 --> 3986.12] anxiety -[3986.12 --> 3987.82] what -[3987.82 --> 3987.94] does -[3987.94 --> 3988.04] it -[3988.04 --> 3988.18] look -[3988.18 --> 3988.32] like -[3988.32 --> 3988.50] to -[3988.50 --> 3988.92] praise -[3988.92 --> 3989.38] God -[3989.38 --> 3990.48] rather -[3990.48 --> 3990.66] than -[3990.66 --> 3990.84] to -[3990.84 --> 3991.30] complain -[3991.30 --> 3993.22] living -[3993.22 --> 3993.52] with -[3993.52 --> 3993.86] God -[3993.86 --> 3994.00] at -[3994.00 --> 3994.14] the -[3994.14 --> 3994.46] center -[3994.46 --> 3995.24] transforms -[3995.24 --> 3995.60] our -[3995.60 --> 3996.10] ordinary -[3996.10 --> 3996.86] actions -[3996.86 --> 3997.40] into -[3997.40 --> 3997.98] acts -[3997.98 --> 3998.22] of -[3998.22 --> 3999.06] worship -[3999.06 --> 3999.64] that's -[3999.64 --> 3999.78] how -[3999.78 --> 4000.32] remembering -[4000.32 --> 4000.84] becomes -[4000.84 --> 4001.86] actualized -[4001.86 --> 4002.02] we -[4002.02 --> 4002.28] take -[4002.28 --> 4002.50] the -[4002.50 --> 4002.94] joys -[4002.94 --> 4003.18] of -[4003.18 --> 4003.66] life -[4003.66 --> 4003.88] and -[4003.88 --> 4004.06] we -[4004.06 --> 4004.30] give -[4004.30 --> 4004.48] them -[4004.48 --> 4004.84] back -[4004.84 --> 4005.32] to -[4005.32 --> 4005.48] the -[4005.48 --> 4005.70] giver -[4005.70 --> 4005.88] we -[4005.88 --> 4006.20] point -[4006.20 --> 4006.36] them -[4006.36 --> 4006.68] back -[4006.68 --> 4007.10] to -[4007.10 --> 4007.22] the -[4007.22 --> 4007.44] giver -[4007.44 --> 4007.66] in -[4007.66 --> 4007.92] both -[4007.92 --> 4008.14] the -[4008.14 --> 4009.24] crazy -[4009.24 --> 4009.92] big -[4009.92 --> 4010.48] life -[4010.48 --> 4011.04] altering -[4011.04 --> 4011.48] things -[4011.48 --> 4012.18] but -[4012.18 --> 4012.54] also -[4012.54 --> 4012.92] in -[4012.92 --> 4013.10] the -[4013.10 --> 4013.54] small -[4013.54 --> 4014.44] everyday -[4014.44 --> 4015.66] ordinary -[4015.66 --> 4016.26] things -[4016.26 --> 4017.96] and -[4017.96 --> 4018.16] these -[4018.16 --> 4018.88] practices -[4018.88 --> 4020.04] taken -[4020.04 --> 4020.48] together -[4020.48 --> 4020.72] and -[4020.72 --> 4021.02] added -[4021.02 --> 4021.54] upon -[4021.54 --> 4022.26] will -[4022.26 --> 4022.94] train -[4022.94 --> 4024.28] the -[4024.28 --> 4025.10] rejoicer -[4025.10 --> 4025.50] organ -[4025.50 --> 4025.90] of -[4025.90 --> 4026.26] your -[4026.26 --> 4026.82] heart -[4026.82 --> 4027.90] restoring -[4027.90 --> 4028.20] it -[4028.20 --> 4028.38] to -[4028.38 --> 4028.54] its -[4028.54 --> 4028.92] proper -[4028.92 --> 4029.24] aim -[4029.24 --> 4030.78] here's -[4030.78 --> 4031.00] the -[4031.00 --> 4031.32] beautiful -[4031.32 --> 4032.32] truth -[4032.32 --> 4032.94] right -[4032.94 --> 4034.36] the -[4034.36 --> 4034.56] more -[4034.56 --> 4034.72] you -[4034.72 --> 4035.14] remember -[4035.14 --> 4035.78] the -[4035.78 --> 4035.94] more -[4035.94 --> 4036.08] you -[4036.08 --> 4036.58] rejoice -[4036.58 --> 4037.82] the -[4037.82 --> 4037.98] more -[4037.98 --> 4038.12] your -[4038.12 --> 4038.34] heart -[4038.34 --> 4038.78] turns -[4038.78 --> 4039.00] to -[4039.00 --> 4039.40] God -[4039.40 --> 4039.76] the -[4039.76 --> 4039.96] more -[4039.96 --> 4040.42] joy -[4040.42 --> 4041.02] flows -[4041.02 --> 4041.38] to -[4041.38 --> 4041.54] its -[4041.54 --> 4041.86] proper -[4041.86 --> 4042.34] place -[4042.34 --> 4042.74] no -[4042.74 --> 4042.90] matter -[4042.90 --> 4043.26] what -[4043.26 --> 4043.66] fades -[4043.66 --> 4044.00] around -[4044.00 --> 4044.24] you -[4044.24 --> 4045.58] the -[4045.58 --> 4045.96] giver -[4045.96 --> 4046.68] endures -[4046.68 --> 4048.14] and -[4048.14 --> 4048.26] so -[4048.26 --> 4048.40] the -[4048.40 --> 4049.06] rejoicer -[4049.06 --> 4050.18] rejoices -[4050.18 --> 4054.64] so -[4054.64 --> 4054.74] you -[4054.74 --> 4055.00] remember -[4055.00 --> 4056.16] the -[4056.16 --> 4056.44] child -[4056.44 --> 4056.60] in -[4056.60 --> 4056.72] the -[4056.72 --> 4057.02] cardboard -[4057.02 --> 4057.48] box -[4057.48 --> 4058.72] the -[4058.72 --> 4059.06] innocent -[4059.06 --> 4059.48] delight -[4059.48 --> 4059.70] but -[4059.70 --> 4059.84] the -[4059.84 --> 4060.70] misdirected -[4060.70 --> 4060.98] joy -[4060.98 --> 4062.62] we -[4062.62 --> 4062.80] all -[4062.80 --> 4063.16] start -[4063.16 --> 4063.44] there -[4063.44 --> 4064.68] we -[4064.68 --> 4064.88] all -[4064.88 --> 4065.30] chase -[4065.30 --> 4065.56] what -[4065.56 --> 4065.74] we -[4065.74 --> 4066.04] cannot -[4066.04 --> 4066.68] satisfy -[4066.68 --> 4068.58] but -[4068.58 --> 4069.06] now -[4069.06 --> 4069.70] maybe -[4069.70 --> 4070.78] we -[4070.78 --> 4070.96] see -[4070.96 --> 4071.12] the -[4071.12 --> 4071.56] difference -[4071.56 --> 4072.92] the -[4072.92 --> 4073.26] box -[4073.26 --> 4073.54] is -[4073.54 --> 4073.74] not -[4073.74 --> 4073.92] the -[4073.92 --> 4074.32] point -[4074.32 --> 4075.20] no -[4075.20 --> 4075.32] matter -[4075.32 --> 4075.54] how -[4075.54 --> 4075.74] well -[4075.74 --> 4075.90] you -[4075.90 --> 4076.14] dress -[4076.14 --> 4076.28] it -[4076.28 --> 4076.54] up -[4076.54 --> 4077.68] and -[4077.68 --> 4078.98] what's -[4078.98 --> 4079.30] in -[4079.30 --> 4079.52] the -[4079.52 --> 4079.98] box -[4079.98 --> 4081.06] is -[4081.06 --> 4081.28] not -[4081.28 --> 4081.46] the -[4081.46 --> 4081.82] point -[4081.82 --> 4082.80] no -[4082.80 --> 4082.86] matter -[4082.86 --> 4083.06] how -[4083.06 --> 4083.38] amazing -[4083.38 --> 4083.58] it -[4083.58 --> 4083.84] is -[4083.84 --> 4085.02] the -[4085.02 --> 4085.38] point -[4085.38 --> 4086.36] is -[4086.36 --> 4086.52] the -[4086.52 --> 4086.82] giver -[4086.82 --> 4088.64] the -[4088.64 --> 4089.02] one -[4089.02 --> 4089.38] who -[4089.38 --> 4089.96] made -[4089.96 --> 4090.72] you -[4090.72 --> 4091.86] the -[4091.86 --> 4092.12] one -[4092.12 --> 4092.40] who -[4092.40 --> 4093.08] remembered -[4093.08 --> 4093.90] you -[4093.90 --> 4094.22] when -[4094.22 --> 4094.38] you -[4094.38 --> 4094.86] forgot -[4094.86 --> 4095.42] the -[4095.42 --> 4095.64] one -[4095.64 --> 4095.84] who -[4095.84 --> 4096.56] restores -[4096.56 --> 4096.92] your -[4096.92 --> 4097.46] broken -[4097.46 --> 4098.30] rejoicer -[4098.30 --> 4098.46] the -[4098.46 --> 4098.72] one -[4098.72 --> 4098.92] who -[4098.92 --> 4099.24] gives -[4099.24 --> 4099.58] you -[4099.58 --> 4099.84] a -[4099.84 --> 4100.18] new -[4100.18 --> 4101.14] heart -[4101.14 --> 4102.82] because -[4102.82 --> 4103.22] you -[4103.22 --> 4103.76] remember -[4103.76 --> 4104.66] him -[4104.66 --> 4104.96] because -[4104.96 --> 4105.36] you -[4105.36 --> 4105.74] are -[4105.74 --> 4106.46] remembered -[4106.46 --> 4108.24] remember -[4108.24 --> 4109.10] your -[4109.10 --> 4109.68] creator -[4109.68 --> 4111.24] rejoice -[4111.24 --> 4111.46] in -[4111.46 --> 4111.70] him -[4111.70 --> 4112.82] let -[4112.82 --> 4112.96] your -[4112.96 --> 4113.40] gratitude -[4113.40 --> 4113.90] and -[4113.90 --> 4114.06] your -[4114.06 --> 4114.52] worship -[4114.52 --> 4114.86] your -[4114.86 --> 4115.28] choices -[4115.28 --> 4115.62] and -[4115.62 --> 4115.82] your -[4115.82 --> 4116.18] rhythms -[4116.18 --> 4116.88] turn -[4116.88 --> 4117.12] your -[4117.12 --> 4117.54] heart -[4117.54 --> 4118.18] back -[4118.18 --> 4118.56] toward -[4118.56 --> 4118.98] the -[4118.98 --> 4119.28] one -[4119.28 --> 4119.50] who -[4119.50 --> 4119.80] gives -[4119.80 --> 4120.20] true -[4120.20 --> 4120.90] joy -[4120.90 --> 4121.10] the -[4121.10 --> 4121.40] gifts -[4121.40 --> 4121.66] of -[4121.66 --> 4121.98] life -[4121.98 --> 4122.20] whether -[4122.20 --> 4122.42] it's -[4122.42 --> 4122.66] youth -[4122.66 --> 4122.82] or -[4122.82 --> 4123.16] strength -[4123.16 --> 4123.34] or -[4123.34 --> 4123.62] love -[4123.62 --> 4123.78] or -[4123.78 --> 4124.06] beauty -[4124.06 --> 4124.50] are -[4124.50 --> 4124.88] real -[4124.88 --> 4125.22] and -[4125.22 --> 4125.44] they -[4125.44 --> 4125.68] are -[4125.68 --> 4126.10] good -[4126.10 --> 4126.58] but -[4126.58 --> 4126.74] they -[4126.74 --> 4127.16] find -[4127.16 --> 4127.38] their -[4127.38 --> 4127.80] proper -[4127.80 --> 4128.36] place -[4128.36 --> 4128.60] when -[4128.60 --> 4129.00] pointed -[4129.00 --> 4129.64] back -[4129.64 --> 4130.08] to -[4130.08 --> 4130.34] him -[4130.34 --> 4132.24] let -[4132.24 --> 4132.46] them -[4132.46 --> 4133.00] remind -[4133.00 --> 4133.36] you -[4133.36 --> 4134.68] don't -[4134.68 --> 4134.88] let -[4134.88 --> 4135.16] them -[4135.16 --> 4135.78] replace -[4135.78 --> 4136.24] him -[4136.24 --> 4138.26] and -[4138.26 --> 4138.40] that -[4138.40 --> 4138.58] way -[4138.58 --> 4138.80] when -[4138.80 --> 4139.02] the -[4139.02 --> 4139.58] house -[4139.58 --> 4140.36] trembles -[4140.36 --> 4140.62] when -[4140.62 --> 4140.76] the -[4140.76 --> 4141.14] doors -[4141.14 --> 4141.62] close -[4141.62 --> 4141.96] when -[4141.96 --> 4142.22] light -[4142.22 --> 4142.62] fades -[4142.62 --> 4143.08] when -[4143.08 --> 4143.42] life -[4143.42 --> 4144.00] feels -[4144.00 --> 4144.56] fragile -[4144.56 --> 4145.04] and -[4145.04 --> 4145.66] fleeting -[4145.66 --> 4147.56] your -[4147.56 --> 4148.02] heart -[4148.02 --> 4149.02] will -[4149.02 --> 4149.62] already -[4149.62 --> 4150.26] be -[4150.26 --> 4150.74] anchored -[4150.74 --> 4152.54] because -[4152.54 --> 4153.00] you have -[4153.00 --> 4153.68] rejoiced -[4153.68 --> 4154.18] rightly -[4154.18 --> 4154.94] because -[4154.94 --> 4155.32] you have -[4155.32 --> 4155.48] been -[4155.48 --> 4155.92] restored -[4155.92 --> 4156.34] by -[4156.34 --> 4157.14] Christ -[4157.14 --> 4157.74] before -[4157.74 --> 4158.54] life -[4158.54 --> 4159.56] fades -[4159.56 --> 4160.26] remember -[4160.26 --> 4161.22] your -[4161.22 --> 4162.04] creator -[4162.04 --> 4163.40] in -[4163.40 --> 4163.60] your -[4163.60 --> 4164.00] youth -[4164.00 --> 4164.84] remember -[4164.84 --> 4165.62] your -[4165.62 --> 4166.30] creator -[4166.30 --> 4167.20] and -[4167.20 --> 4167.72] live -[4167.72 --> 4167.98] in -[4167.98 --> 4168.20] the -[4168.20 --> 4168.70] joy -[4168.70 --> 4170.12] that -[4170.12 --> 4170.86] endures -[4170.86 --> 4171.50] when -[4171.50 --> 4171.84] all -[4171.84 --> 4172.20] else -[4172.20 --> 4172.50] is -[4172.50 --> 4172.86] meaningless -[4172.86 --> 4174.66] and -[4174.66 --> 4174.82] you -[4174.82 --> 4175.00] will -[4175.00 --> 4175.38] find -[4175.38 --> 4176.78] that -[4176.78 --> 4177.22] that -[4177.22 --> 4178.02] is -[4178.02 --> 4178.22] the -[4178.22 --> 4178.54] only -[4178.54 --> 4179.08] meaning -[4179.08 --> 4180.00] that -[4180.00 --> 4180.44] matters -[4180.44 --> 4181.78] amen -[4181.78 --> 4183.04] let's -[4183.04 --> 4183.22] pray -[4183.22 --> 4183.60] together -[4183.60 --> 4195.42] holy -[4195.42 --> 4196.64] god -[4196.64 --> 4198.70] what a -[4198.70 --> 4199.14] beautiful -[4199.14 --> 4200.28] truth -[4200.28 --> 4201.20] that you -[4201.20 --> 4202.02] remember -[4202.02 --> 4202.72] your -[4202.72 --> 4203.30] people -[4203.30 --> 4205.84] what a -[4205.84 --> 4206.24] beautiful -[4206.24 --> 4207.04] truth -[4207.04 --> 4208.12] that you -[4208.12 --> 4209.00] hear the -[4209.00 --> 4210.14] cries of -[4210.14 --> 4210.42] your -[4210.42 --> 4210.86] people -[4210.86 --> 4214.10] because -[4214.10 --> 4214.44] of -[4214.44 --> 4214.62] who -[4214.62 --> 4214.88] you -[4214.88 --> 4215.36] are -[4215.36 --> 4216.50] because -[4216.50 --> 4217.18] of -[4217.18 --> 4217.94] your -[4217.94 --> 4218.62] grace -[4218.62 --> 4221.50] move -[4221.50 --> 4221.90] us -[4221.90 --> 4222.24] by the -[4222.24 --> 4222.54] power -[4222.54 --> 4222.78] of -[4222.78 --> 4222.94] your -[4222.94 --> 4223.36] spirit -[4223.36 --> 4223.74] then -[4223.74 --> 4223.96] to -[4223.96 --> 4224.10] be -[4224.10 --> 4224.26] a -[4224.26 --> 4224.56] people -[4224.56 --> 4224.86] who -[4224.86 --> 4225.42] also -[4225.42 --> 4226.42] remember -[4226.42 --> 4230.18] and -[4230.18 --> 4230.34] god -[4230.34 --> 4230.98] especially -[4230.98 --> 4232.06] especially -[4232.06 --> 4232.72] for those -[4232.72 --> 4233.06] of us -[4233.06 --> 4233.30] who are -[4233.30 --> 4233.58] young -[4233.58 --> 4234.82] especially -[4234.82 --> 4235.44] for those -[4235.44 --> 4235.80] of us -[4235.80 --> 4235.96] who -[4235.96 --> 4236.70] have -[4236.70 --> 4238.02] seemingly -[4238.02 --> 4238.90] all of -[4238.90 --> 4239.30] life -[4239.30 --> 4239.80] ahead of -[4239.80 --> 4240.16] us -[4240.16 --> 4241.94] may -[4241.94 --> 4242.26] we -[4242.26 --> 4243.00] remember -[4243.00 --> 4244.18] you -[4244.18 --> 4247.60] may -[4247.60 --> 4247.72] we -[4247.72 --> 4247.86] look -[4247.86 --> 4248.04] to -[4248.04 --> 4248.32] you -[4248.32 --> 4250.36] and -[4250.36 --> 4250.56] so -[4250.56 --> 4250.98] fill -[4250.98 --> 4251.38] us -[4251.38 --> 4251.66] to -[4251.66 --> 4252.46] overflowing -[4252.46 --> 4252.96] with -[4252.96 --> 4253.30] your -[4253.30 --> 4254.00] love -[4254.00 --> 4255.74] restore -[4255.74 --> 4256.38] us -[4256.38 --> 4256.74] by -[4256.74 --> 4256.98] your -[4256.98 --> 4257.40] grace -[4257.40 --> 4258.82] and -[4258.82 --> 4259.16] send -[4259.16 --> 4259.38] us -[4259.38 --> 4259.64] out -[4259.64 --> 4260.08] now -[4260.08 --> 4261.62] send -[4261.62 --> 4261.86] us -[4261.86 --> 4262.22] out -[4262.22 --> 4262.66] now -[4262.66 --> 4262.90] that -[4262.90 --> 4263.14] we -[4263.14 --> 4263.60] might -[4263.60 --> 4264.72] deepen -[4264.72 --> 4265.54] our -[4265.54 --> 4266.22] remembering -[4266.22 --> 4266.98] that -[4266.98 --> 4267.12] we -[4267.12 --> 4267.36] might -[4267.36 --> 4267.94] strengthen -[4267.94 --> 4268.80] our -[4268.80 --> 4269.42] remembering -[4269.42 --> 4270.34] and that -[4270.34 --> 4270.48] we -[4270.48 --> 4270.76] might -[4270.76 --> 4271.30] live -[4271.30 --> 4272.42] our -[4272.42 --> 4273.14] remembering -[4273.14 --> 4273.96] each -[4273.96 --> 4274.78] and every -[4274.78 --> 4275.06] day -[4275.06 --> 4276.08] in -[4276.08 --> 4276.38] Jesus -[4276.38 --> 4276.80] name -[4276.80 --> 4277.24] we -[4277.24 --> 4277.56] pray -[4277.56 --> 4278.88] amen -[4278.88 --> 4288.02] ace -[4288.02 --> 4288.94] and -[4288.94 --> 4292.02] to -[4292.02 --> 4300.38] want -[4302.66 --> 4305.02] to -[4305.02 --> 4326.58] Worthy of every song we could ever sing. Worthy of all the praise we could ever bring. Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe. We live for you. -[4326.58 --> 4345.74] Jesus the name above every other name. Jesus the only one who could ever sing. -[4345.74 --> 4357.74] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe. We live for you. We live for you. -[4357.74 --> 4376.70] Holy, there is no one like you. There is none beside you. Open up my eyes in wonder and show me who you are. -[4376.70 --> 4388.70] And fill me with your heart and lead me in your love to us. I will be here. -[4388.70 --> 4412.70] Jesus the name above every other name. Jesus the only one who could ever sing. -[4412.70 --> 4442.68] Jesus the name above every song we could ever sing. -[4442.68 --> 4444.68] Amen. -[4444.68 --> 4445.68] Amen. -[4445.68 --> 4454.68] pick your heart and lead me in your love to those around me. -[4454.68 --> 4457.68] Amen. -[4457.68 --> 4461.68] If you're here, follow me in your love to those around me. -[4461.68 --> 4462.68] Amen. -[4462.68 --> 4485.48] And I will build my life upon your love -[4485.48 --> 4489.84] It is a foundation -[4489.84 --> 4497.88] I will put my trust in you alone -[4497.88 --> 4502.86] And I will not be shaken -[4502.86 --> 4510.10] I will build my life upon your love -[4510.10 --> 4514.34] It is a foundation -[4514.34 --> 4522.38] And I will put my trust in you alone -[4522.38 --> 4526.86] And I will not be shaken -[4526.86 --> 4531.96] And holy, there is no one like you -[4531.96 --> 4534.90] There is none beside you -[4535.38 --> 4539.74] Open up my eyes in wonder -[4539.74 --> 4543.16] And show me who you are -[4543.16 --> 4546.30] And fill me with your heart -[4546.30 --> 4549.28] And lead me in your love -[4549.28 --> 4553.06] To those around me -[4553.06 --> 4566.24] Amen -[4566.24 --> 4571.24] Before we go, just a reminder -[4571.24 --> 4572.76] Maybe a word of encouragement -[4572.76 --> 4574.82] If you are looking to pray with someone -[4574.82 --> 4575.96] There will be someone up here -[4575.96 --> 4577.36] With a yellow name tag on -[4577.36 --> 4578.30] They would love to meet you -[4578.30 --> 4580.98] And pray with you as well -[4580.98 --> 4583.70] If you have been worshipping with us -[4583.70 --> 4585.50] For some time as a guest -[4585.50 --> 4586.52] And are wondering about -[4586.52 --> 4587.78] What it looks like to connect -[4587.78 --> 4589.22] More intentionally -[4589.22 --> 4591.28] And to wonder about membership -[4591.28 --> 4594.18] I am going to be at the connect booth there -[4594.18 --> 4595.76] You can come talk to me -[4595.76 --> 4596.92] Following the service -[4596.92 --> 4599.34] And we can talk about -[4599.34 --> 4601.30] What that might look like for you -[4601.30 --> 4603.14] As you go, receive the blessing -[4603.14 --> 4604.42] Of our good God -[4604.42 --> 4610.02] God, go before you -[4610.02 --> 4611.10] To lead you -[4611.10 --> 4612.94] God, go behind you -[4612.94 --> 4614.06] To protect you -[4614.06 --> 4616.62] God, go beneath you -[4616.62 --> 4617.64] To support you -[4617.64 --> 4619.42] God, go beside you -[4619.42 --> 4620.56] To befriend you -[4620.56 --> 4622.60] Do not be afraid -[4622.60 --> 4624.16] Let the blessing of God -[4624.16 --> 4625.08] Come upon you today -[4625.08 --> 4626.84] Do not be afraid -[4626.84 --> 4629.38] But go in peace -[4629.38 --> 4631.46] To remember your creator -[4631.46 --> 4633.52] In the days of your youth -[4633.52 --> 4634.76] Amen -[4634.76 --> 4654.08] In the darkness we were waiting -[4654.08 --> 4657.40] Without hope and without light -[4657.40 --> 4660.62] Till from heaven you came running -[4660.62 --> 4664.40] There was mercy in your eyes -[4664.40 --> 4667.30] To fulfill the law and prophets -[4667.30 --> 4669.14] To affirm to me -[4669.14 --> 4670.14] The Lord -[4670.14 --> 4673.96] The throne of endless glory -[4673.96 --> 4677.82] To a cradle in the dirt -[4677.82 --> 4678.82] Praise the Lord -[4678.82 --> 4684.50] Praise the Father -[4684.50 --> 4686.50] Praise the Son -[4686.50 --> 4687.50] Praise the Spirit -[4687.50 --> 4691.50] Praise the Spirit -[4691.50 --> 4694.50] Three in one -[4694.50 --> 4697.34] God of glory -[4697.34 --> 4699.34] Glory of majesty -[4699.34 --> 4700.02] Praise the Lord -[4700.02 --> 4705.02] Praise the Lord -[4705.02 --> 4714.94] To reveal the kingdom coming -[4714.94 --> 4718.32] And to recognize the lost -[4718.32 --> 4721.40] To redeem the whole creation -[4721.40 --> 4724.90] You did not despise the cross -[4724.90 --> 4727.86] For even in your suffering -[4727.86 --> 4731.08] You saw to the other side -[4731.08 --> 4734.10] Knowing this was our salvation -[4734.10 --> 4737.92] Jesus, for our sake you died -[4737.92 --> 4748.36] Praise the Father, praise the Son -[4748.36 --> 4754.64] Praise the Spirit, free in love -[4754.64 --> 4760.68] God of glory, mountain sea -[4760.68 --> 4767.58] Praise forever to the King of kings -[4767.58 --> 4773.88] In the morning that you rose -[4773.88 --> 4777.00] All of heaven held its breath -[4777.00 --> 4780.18] Till a stone was moved for good -[4780.18 --> 4783.36] For the Lamb had conquered death -[4783.36 --> 4786.62] And the dead rose from their tombs -[4786.62 --> 4789.68] And the angels stood in awe -[4789.68 --> 4792.76] For the souls of all who come -[4792.76 --> 4795.60] To the Father are restored -[4795.60 --> 4799.14] And the Church of Christ was born -[4799.14 --> 4802.10] Then the Spirit lived on faith -[4802.10 --> 4805.12] Now this gospel through the whole -[4805.12 --> 4808.32] Shall I kneel, shall I faint -[4808.32 --> 4811.22] By His blood, by His name -[4811.22 --> 4814.20] In His freedom I am free -[4814.20 --> 4817.38] For the love of Jesus Christ -[4817.38 --> 4820.56] Who has resurrected me -[4820.56 --> 4830.18] Praise the Father, praise the Son -[4830.18 --> 4836.74] Praise the Spirit, free in one -[4836.74 --> 4841.92] God of glory, majesty -[4841.92 --> 4844.24] Praise forever to the King of kings -[4844.24 --> 4849.24] Praise forever to the King of kings -[4849.24 --> 4853.86] Praise the Father, praise the Son -[4853.86 --> 4859.24] Praise the Spirit, three in one -[4859.24 --> 4860.54] God of glory, majesty -[4860.54 --> 4868.72] Praise the Father, praise the Son -[4868.72 --> 4872.92] Praise forever to the King of kings -[4872.92 --> 4875.86] Praise forever to the King of kings -[4875.86 --> 4879.92] Praise forever to the King of kings -[4879.92 --> 4880.92] Amen. -[4909.92 --> 4910.92] Amen. -[4939.92 --> 4940.92] Amen. -[4969.92 --> 4970.92] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, November 30, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, November 30, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d7a5f82fa54ef3689a822e369a1eeccd349d3e53..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, November 30, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,115 +0,0 @@ -• HCBC and Canons of Dort classes meet at 7 p.m. -• Photo directory preparation nearing completion -• Members to verify information in photo directory -• Through the Bible group meets on Wednesdays to discuss Romans -• Support needed for missionary families in Mexico, including construction work -• Opportunity for a small team to visit Mexico with Brandon -• Sign-up sheet for free lunch with seniors on December 17 -• Clean-up needed after craft fair and bake sale on December 6th -• Seeking volunteers to help with chairs on December 6th evening -• Seeking concert band/brass/woodwind instrument ensemble for Christmas Day service -• The psalmist's cry to God from the depths of despair -• Emmanuel and Jesus coming soon, a savior for Israel and the world -• Rejoicing at the coming of Christ, preparing a pathway for Him -• A call to all nations to shout His name and prepare for His return -• Longing for King Jesus, waiting for Him with hearts ready to sing -• Hope in God's unfailing love and redemption from sin -• Calling on God to hear prayers, forgive sins, and redeem from the depths of hell -• Waiting for Christ -• Trust in God's power and sacrifice -• Mission of spreading the gospel through Resonate -• Giving offerings and budget support to Langley Emanuel church -• Invitations to come to the altar for forgiveness and spiritual renewal -• Worship music with lyrics about forgiveness and the precious blood of Jesus Christ -• Invitation to children (ages 3-4) to come to the front for a kids' corner -• Story about waiting, featuring two couples who waited patiently for Jesus to come -• Introduction of a friend, Hank, who is good at waiting -• Interaction with Hank, discussing his ability to wait and eventually getting a treat after 47 minutes (or 47 years in dog years) -• Playful dialogue between the speaker and Hank, including Hank's attempts to speak and the speaker's efforts to get him to wait longer -• A treat is given to a child named Hank, but he must wait to get it -• The waiting theme is compared to biblical stories of people waiting for Jesus -• The group moves on to children's worship time and prays together -• Parents are informed that their children will return from the worship service soon -• Upcoming church events and activities are mentioned: - • Wednesday night services - • The budget for 2026 was approved - • Apologies are made for missing someone who needed a ride -• A prayer is said, asking for guidance and compliance with God's will -• The speaker thanks God for worshiping together on a beautiful morning and asks for His presence in their lives. -• The speaker reflects on the history of God's actions, including the flood and Sodom and Gomorrah, emphasizing that God has not changed. -• The speaker prays to be reminded of God's control over all things and to help them spend time listening to God's word. -• The Advent and Christmas season is introduced as a focus on "the cast of Christmas," with four people from the gospel of Luke being highlighted. -• The first person, Zechariah, is introduced in Luke 1, who is told by an angel that he will have a son named John, who will be great in the sight of God and bring many back to God's fold. -• The second person, Simeon, is introduced in Luke 2, who praises God when holding Jesus and acknowledges His role as salvation for all nations. -• The speaker discusses the themes of hope, waiting, and expectation during the Advent season -• They reference the story of Anna, a prophet who spent her life in worship and prayer at the temple -• The speaker notes that God often starts with the overlooked and forgotten people in his stories -• Four quiet lives are highlighted: Zechariah, Elizabeth, Simeon, and Anna, who embody different shades of longing and waiting for God's presence -• Zechariah and Elizabeth are described as part of the Levitical class, descendants of Aaron, and serving in the temple as priests -• Discussion of Zechariah and Elizabeth's childlessness as a result of their advanced age, not a punishment for sin -• Social stigma associated with infertility in biblical times -• Comparison to other biblical stories of infertility, such as Hannah and Elkna -• Gabriel's response to Zechariah's doubt, emphasizing God's power and ability to overcome human limitations -• The faithfulness and commitment of Zechariah and Elizabeth despite their doubts and unfulfilled desires -• Introduction to Simeon, an elderly righteous man who appears briefly in the story, waiting for the consolation of Israel (the start of the age of the Messiah) -• Zechariah and Elizabeth were elderly when they received the promise of Jesus' birth -• They waited patiently, even though it was delayed, and remained faithful in their ordinary lives -• Simeon and Anna, both prophets, also waited with expectation for the Messiah's arrival -• Anna's backstory shows her dedication to worship and prayer despite being a widow for 84 years (or possibly until age 105) -• The four stories demonstrate that waiting on God's promise is not wasted time and can lead to deeper faith and trust in His timing -• Zechariah and Elizabeth model consistency between their profession of faith and daily lives, showing how to live for and serve the Lord even in disappointment. -• Study on young adults leaving church in Canada -• Disconnect between professed belief and lived experience of faith -• Young adults seeking authenticity and rigor in their faith -• Importance of taking ownership of one's faith -• Net growth in Christian churches due to 20-somethings who value a transformed life -• The importance of tuning one's heart to God's Word -• Recognizing the timbre and vocal structure of God's voice -• Hearing God's revelation in a world filled with distractions -• Analogous example of being able to hear a child's voice amidst noise -• Comparing this ability to being able to pick out God's voice among competing voices -• Jesus' role as the good shepherd in John 10 -• Hearing God's voice and recognizing it as distinct from a stranger's -• The importance of familiarity with God's word in hearing His voice -• Relationship with God requires effort, investment, and spiritual discipline -• Bible reading is necessary to understand and hear God's voice -• Expecting emotional responses or feelings in church attendance -• The speaker's life is perfectly designed to get the results they're currently getting. -• To achieve different results, one must do things differently and make deep change. -• Shallow changes are not enough; they require going deeper with God and drawing closer to Him. -• The Holy Spirit needs to be filled in order for prayer and scripture to flow out of us. -• The voice of Jesus is often a paraphrased version of scripture quotes -• Familiarity with God's word can cause prayer to be spoken in the voice of scripture -• To encounter God, one should not move away from promised ways of being present, such as through sacraments and church community -• Jesus speaks when we engage with Him in His places of speaking (e.g. worship, life together) -• Age is no barrier to serving or contributing to God's purposes; examples are given through Anna's story -• The importance of perseverance in serving the Lord, even into old age -• Waiting on God and not being discouraged by sorrow or hardship -• How waiting can be a means of recognizing Jesus when he appears -• The role of faithfulness in times of darkness as a preparation for seeing God's promises fulfilled -• The value of worshiping God even in grief and tragedy -• The expectation of God's presence among his people -• Simeon, Anna, Elizabeth, and Zechariah's waiting for God to take on flesh and dwell among them -• The miracle of God's timing in sending Jesus into the world -• Every ache, prayer, and yearning leading to this moment of hope and good news -• The birth of Jesus Christ as savior in Bethlehem -• Jesus is Emmanuel, God with us -• Advent season is a time of hope and waiting for God's presence -• We are not alone in our waiting; we wait with the church and saints in Christ -• God has already come and will come again; may we offer our waiting to Him -• Certainty that Christ has not forgotten or abandoned the speaker -• The importance of faith and hope in anticipating Christ's second coming -• A desire to hear God's voice and know Him more deeply -• The need for believers to take ownership of their faith and responsibility as followers of Christ -• A prayer for the Holy Spirit to move in believers, drawing them closer to God -• Prayers and affirmations of faith -• Trust in God amidst uncertainty and change -• Encouragement to share one's story and testimony -• Announcement of a worship service at Sunridge Gardens -• Blessing of God for protection, support, and guidance -• Call to serve the Lord with love and peace -• The song repeats with lyrics about God's promise of peace and glory -• The lyrics mention Christ as the Lord of heaven and earth -• The song includes repeated phrases such as "Glory to God in the highest" and "Peace to men on earth" -• The song is accompanied by repetition of phrases like "Come and adore Him with wonder" -• The song ends with a repetitive sequence of thank yous \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, November 30, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, November 30, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 5cde41f20707f47e9e89d85e622fec025430f2f7..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, November 30, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2069 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.20] D -[3.62 --> 5.00] forening -[5.00 --> 34.98] Thank you. -[35.00 --> 64.98] Thank you. -[65.00 --> 94.98] Thank you. -[95.00 --> 124.98] Thank you. -[125.00 --> 154.98] Thank you. -[155.00 --> 184.98] Thank you. -[185.00 --> 187.00] Thank you. -[215.00 --> 217.00] Thank you. -[245.00 --> 247.00] Thank you. -[275.00 --> 277.00] Thank you. -[305.00 --> 307.00] Thank you. -[307.00 --> 309.00] Thank you. -[309.00 --> 311.00] Thank you. -[311.00 --> 313.00] Thank you. -[313.00 --> 315.00] Thank you. -[343.00 --> 345.00] Thank you. -[373.00 --> 375.00] Thank you. -[375.00 --> 377.00] Thank you. -[377.00 --> 379.00] Thank you. -[379.00 --> 381.00] Thank you. -[381.00 --> 383.00] Thank you. -[383.00 --> 385.00] Thank you. -[385.00 --> 387.00] Thank you. -[387.00 --> 416.98] Thank you. -[417.00 --> 446.98] Thank you. -[447.00 --> 476.98] Thank you. -[477.00 --> 506.98] Thank you. -[507.00 --> 509.00] Thank you. -[509.00 --> 515.00] Thank you. -[515.00 --> 529.00] Good morning. -[529.00 --> 535.00] Good morning. -[535.00 --> 535.48] Good morning. -[536.20 --> 537.30] Are we out there? -[537.38 --> 538.08] There we go. -[538.18 --> 539.08] Good morning, everyone. -[539.34 --> 541.34] Welcome to church. -[541.56 --> 545.30] A special welcome if you are a guest here with us this morning. -[545.30 --> 546.30] My name is Chris. -[546.30 --> 554.62] I'm one of the pastors here at Emanuel and it's our privilege together to begin this Advent -[554.62 --> 562.46] season, this season of waiting and expectation of hope, anticipation for Christmas in worship -[562.46 --> 563.30] together. -[563.30 --> 569.14] Before we begin our worship, we've got a couple announcements to make, actually a long list -[569.14 --> 570.42] of announcements to make. -[570.92 --> 572.80] And so I'm going to work through that. -[573.48 --> 580.40] First of all, this evening is the HCBC and Canons of Dort classes. -[580.40 --> 583.42] They're meeting here at 7 p.m. -[583.42 --> 587.70] And so grades 9 through 12, you're here for HCBC. -[587.70 --> 592.46] And then anyone else, you're welcome to join my group for the Canons of Dort class. -[592.58 --> 594.60] We start at 7 o'clock together. -[594.60 --> 603.42] Also, you'll have probably seen on your way in, the next installment of the photo directory -[603.42 --> 606.50] is in its final stages of preparation. -[606.86 --> 613.02] And so if you are a member here, your information is likely in that photo directory. -[613.02 --> 619.40] We just want you to verify that it is correct, that the right phone numbers and email is there, -[619.40 --> 626.04] that there's a space in your postal code, for example, and that the picture that you -[626.04 --> 629.18] have submitted is still the picture you want there. -[629.28 --> 631.52] And we've got to follow that up really quickly. -[631.96 --> 637.36] So please, Maria will be out there after the service if you have any questions. -[637.50 --> 641.80] There's pens, and so just write down the correct information on that. -[642.86 --> 647.08] This Wednesday, the Through the Bible group is going to be meeting again. -[647.08 --> 651.18] We're working our way through the Bible in three years, and we're meeting on Wednesday -[651.18 --> 652.88] to discuss the Book of Romans. -[653.68 --> 660.26] So I encourage you to finish that up if you haven't yet, and then gather on Wednesday at 7 p.m. here. -[663.38 --> 671.88] We have been, in the past little while, talking about the needs that Jody and Uriel have in Mexico, -[672.24 --> 675.56] missionary families that we support there, one of our ministry partners, -[675.56 --> 679.18] that we've been connected with for many, many, many, many, many years. -[679.64 --> 683.98] They had a property emergency and are in need of some construction. -[684.44 --> 688.56] You guys have done an awesome job and raised an incredible amount of support. -[689.66 --> 696.02] And they have asked if Brandon might come down and connect with them in the process. -[696.02 --> 699.72] And so we would love to send a small team with Brandon. -[700.62 --> 707.20] And so if you are interested in seeing what we do in Mexico, it's not going to be a work trip -[707.20 --> 711.28] because of labor rules and things like that. -[711.84 --> 714.24] But you will connect with our ministry partners there. -[714.78 --> 717.28] We would love to send a group of three or four. -[717.28 --> 724.92] If you're interested in that, Brandon is going to be in the multi-purpose room following the service today -[724.92 --> 728.84] because we would like to do that when they're ready to do the work. -[729.36 --> 731.34] And so that could be in two weeks. -[731.76 --> 732.94] It could be in a month. -[733.52 --> 735.84] So if you've got some flexibility and some interest, -[736.00 --> 738.64] please connect with Brandon following worship. -[739.16 --> 740.02] Grab your coffees. -[740.12 --> 740.84] Make your connections. -[740.84 --> 743.64] But then a little while after that, in the multi-purpose room, -[743.72 --> 745.82] Brandon will be there to answer any questions. -[748.96 --> 749.48] Five. -[749.74 --> 750.18] Five. -[750.32 --> 753.38] We need a youth coffee host for next Sunday. -[754.04 --> 760.08] So Pastor Kevin is looking for someone to host the youth coffee after church on Sunday. -[760.52 --> 762.10] So Kevin, he's right there. -[762.20 --> 764.44] He would love to connect with you after our service. -[765.92 --> 767.94] Also, seniors lunch. -[767.94 --> 771.88] Every year, the deacons host a lunch for the seniors. -[772.24 --> 775.16] And I was told today, for people who want to hang out with the seniors. -[776.12 --> 778.46] So if you're just looking for a free lunch and have time, -[778.84 --> 781.96] on December, what did we say that was? -[782.76 --> 783.20] 17. -[783.52 --> 783.94] Thank you. -[784.42 --> 789.60] December 17, there's a sign-up sheet that will be at the Connect booth at the back. -[790.74 --> 793.42] Seniors and senior adjacent and friends. -[793.88 --> 794.62] You're all welcome. -[795.10 --> 796.44] Just sign up in advance. -[796.44 --> 805.94] And last, nope, second to last, we are looking for some more people to sign up for the clean-up -[805.94 --> 812.78] that's going to take place after the craft fair and bake sale on December 6th. -[812.78 --> 815.06] So that will be in here on Saturday. -[815.32 --> 817.70] All day long, different vendors and things like that. -[817.78 --> 819.68] Many of you have signed up to participate in that. -[819.68 --> 827.16] We need some people to clean up and reset the space so that we can worship well on Sunday. -[827.58 --> 832.08] And so if you're interested in helping for the clean-up, please talk to Miriam De Winter. -[832.42 --> 833.30] She's at the back. -[833.38 --> 834.28] She's going to wave her hand. -[834.90 --> 835.68] Miriam back there. -[836.02 --> 836.76] It's also my mother. -[837.20 --> 838.56] So make sure you talk to her well. -[839.42 --> 841.06] She's serving coffee after church. -[841.12 --> 842.82] So if you're looking for her, she'll be in the kitchen. -[842.82 --> 848.96] And if you're able to help with chairs on December 6th in the evening, resetting those, please talk to Rob. -[849.42 --> 850.98] He's around here somewhere too. -[852.24 --> 852.92] He's in the back. -[853.12 --> 854.12] Anyway, talk to Rob. -[854.20 --> 855.48] He'll get you with the chairs. -[855.48 --> 872.48] Lastly, we are hoping to have a bit of a concert band slash brass and woodwind instrument ensemble for Christmas Day. -[873.32 --> 878.68] And so if you play a brass instrument or a woodwind instrument or a traditional concert band instrument, -[879.14 --> 881.60] would you talk to Pastor Kevin after the service? -[881.60 --> 889.00] And we can get your information down and put you on the list and get that ready for Christmas Day. -[889.24 --> 891.76] We'd love to see that happening here as well. -[892.24 --> 893.18] I think that's it. -[893.26 --> 893.90] Kevin, am I right? -[894.66 --> 894.90] Yep. -[895.08 --> 895.36] All right. -[895.46 --> 896.10] Linda, are you here? -[896.14 --> 896.52] Am I right? -[897.40 --> 898.02] Linda's not here? -[898.10 --> 898.36] Perfect. -[898.54 --> 898.70] Okay. -[899.44 --> 905.32] Well then, let's stand and be ushered into God's presence together. -[905.32 --> 916.28] Following God's greeting, I'm going to invite you to turn to those around you and welcome them in our worship. -[916.68 --> 922.20] And then we will have Bert and Weka come up and they'll lead us in the Advent candle lighting. -[922.64 --> 924.54] Receive the greeting of our God. -[924.54 --> 929.28] Grace, mercy, and peace to you. -[929.78 --> 936.38] From God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, Son, and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[937.30 --> 937.66] Amen. -[954.54 --> 961.54] Okay. -[961.54 --> 962.34] It's our big one. -[962.56 --> 963.68] There's a big one in the middle. -[964.12 --> 964.94] There's two in one in the middle. -[965.36 --> 966.52] It's not the purple one? -[966.60 --> 967.94] No, it's one of the purple ones. -[968.04 --> 968.66] That's what I thought. -[968.88 --> 969.02] Yeah. -[969.02 --> 969.08] Yeah. -[969.16 --> 969.90] The pink one. -[970.58 --> 972.18] Yes, this is the first one. -[973.38 --> 974.26] Where did you say that? -[974.66 --> 974.92] No. -[975.42 --> 975.60] No. -[976.92 --> 977.60] It's purple. -[978.92 --> 979.74] Yeah, we're purple. -[980.16 --> 980.84] Yes, I know. -[980.94 --> 981.24] And you. -[981.48 --> 981.96] Okay. -[981.96 --> 984.00] Okay. -[989.00 --> 989.98] When do we start? -[990.38 --> 990.74] Now. -[990.74 --> 992.86] Whenever you want to do it. -[992.86 --> 999.52] Today we light the candle of hope. -[1001.12 --> 1008.92] Like Elizabeth, Zechariah, Simeon, and Anna, we wait with patience for God to keep his promises. -[1008.92 --> 1014.46] We hope of the Lord, for his word is sure. -[1014.62 --> 1015.50] Yeah, yeah, it's in there. -[1015.68 --> 1016.26] Yeah, it's there. -[1019.14 --> 1023.74] As this candle burns, we remember, our waiting is not in vain. -[1024.52 --> 1025.50] Christ is our hope. -[1025.50 --> 1037.78] And we options'll make yes. -[1037.78 --> 1038.82] Phenomenical music蛋illy -[1038.82 --> 1040.00] Situation -[1040.14 --> 1040.84] Program -[1040.84 --> 1070.82] O come, O come, Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel. -[1070.84 --> 1086.48] And mourns in lonely exile, until the Son of God appear. -[1086.48 --> 1103.66] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel, shall come to thee, O Israel. -[1103.66 --> 1115.54] O come, O wisdom, come on earth. -[1115.54 --> 1122.88] O Lord, all things are all right to lead. -[1123.52 --> 1130.54] To us the path of knowledge show. -[1130.54 --> 1138.46] And it shall see its ways to go. -[1139.18 --> 1154.54] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel, shall come to thee, O Israel. -[1154.54 --> 1166.72] O come, thou branch of Jesse's stem. -[1166.72 --> 1173.72] Come to thine own and rescue them. -[1175.16 --> 1182.10] From depths of hell your people save. -[1182.10 --> 1190.24] And give them victory o'er the grave. -[1191.24 --> 1206.10] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel, shall come to thee, O Israel. -[1206.10 --> 1218.28] O come, O brightened morning star. -[1218.28 --> 1225.28] And bring us comfort, Father, above all. -[1225.28 --> 1233.28] Discount the shadows of the night. -[1233.28 --> 1241.28] And turn our darkness into light. -[1241.28 --> 1258.28] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel, shall come to thee, O Israel. -[1258.28 --> 1277.28] Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel, shall come to thee, O Israel. -[1277.28 --> 1307.26] Rejoice, Emmanuel, shall come to thee, O Israel. -[1307.26 --> 1314.26] All of the earth make straight a pathway path for the Lord. -[1314.26 --> 1320.26] Jesus is coming, Savior. -[1320.26 --> 1328.26] Call back the sinner, wake up the saint. -[1328.26 --> 1333.26] Let every nation shout at your fame. -[1333.26 --> 1335.26] Jesus is coming soon. -[1335.26 --> 1340.26] Jesus is coming soon. -[1340.26 --> 1347.26] Like a bride waiting forever. -[1347.26 --> 1348.26] Amen. -[1348.26 --> 1352.26] The Lord, we'll be a church ready for you. -[1352.26 --> 1353.26] Every heart longing for our King. -[1353.26 --> 1355.26] Peace sing. -[1355.26 --> 1368.26] Even so come, Lord Jesus come. -[1368.26 --> 1376.08] Even so come, Lord Jesus come -[1376.08 --> 1384.16] There will be justice, all will be new -[1384.16 --> 1388.68] Your name forever, faithful and true -[1388.68 --> 1394.62] Jesus is coming soon -[1398.26 --> 1403.18] Like a bride waiting for her -[1403.18 --> 1409.56] We'll be a church ready for you every night -[1409.56 --> 1415.06] Longing for our King, we sing -[1415.06 --> 1422.56] Even so come, Lord Jesus come -[1422.56 --> 1431.48] Even so come, Lord Jesus come -[1431.48 --> 1458.18] So we wait, we wait for you -[1458.18 --> 1467.02] But we wait, you're coming soon -[1467.02 --> 1475.68] So we wait, we wait for you -[1475.68 --> 1484.52] But we wait, you're coming soon -[1484.52 --> 1493.18] So we wait, we wait for you -[1493.18 --> 1502.02] But we wait, you're coming soon -[1502.02 --> 1510.18] So we wait, we wait for you -[1510.18 --> 1519.02] Don't we wait, we're coming soon -[1519.02 --> 1527.86] Like a bride waiting for our King, we sing -[1527.86 --> 1536.70] Like a bride waiting for our King, we sing -[1536.70 --> 1545.54] We'll be a church ready for our King, we sing -[1545.54 --> 1548.72] We'll be a church ready for you every night -[1548.72 --> 1553.54] Longing for our King, we sing -[1553.54 --> 1560.66] Even so come, Lord Jesus come -[1560.66 --> 1569.50] Even so come, Lord Jesus come -[1569.50 --> 1579.50] Even so come, Lord Jesus come -[1579.50 --> 1581.56] I invite you to be seated -[1581.56 --> 1590.84] In Psalm 130 we read -[1590.84 --> 1595.00] Out of the depths I cry to you, Lord -[1595.00 --> 1598.14] Lord, hear my voice -[1598.14 --> 1602.42] Let your ears be attentive to my cry for mercy -[1602.42 --> 1605.90] If you, Lord, kept a record of sins -[1605.90 --> 1608.10] Lord, who could stand -[1608.10 --> 1610.56] But with you there is forgiveness -[1610.56 --> 1614.94] So that we can, with reverence, serve you -[1614.94 --> 1633.76] Be still and know that I am God -[1633.76 --> 1642.54] Be still and know that I am God -[1642.54 --> 1651.28] Be still and know that I am God -[1651.28 --> 1661.86] In Thee, O Lord, I put my trust -[1661.86 --> 1670.36] In Thee, O Lord, I put my trust -[1670.36 --> 1679.26] In Thee, O Lord, I put my trust -[1679.26 --> 1689.10] Be still and know that I am God -[1689.10 --> 1697.68] Be still and know that I am God -[1697.68 --> 1706.42] Be still and know that I am God -[1706.42 --> 1712.86] Let's stand to hear words of assurance -[1712.86 --> 1715.46] As Psalm 130 continues -[1715.46 --> 1722.00] I wait for the Lord -[1722.00 --> 1724.20] My whole being waits -[1724.20 --> 1727.72] And in His word I put my hope -[1727.72 --> 1731.86] I wait for the Lord more than watchmen for the morning -[1731.86 --> 1734.70] More than watchmen for the morning -[1734.70 --> 1739.12] Church of Jesus Christ, let's put our hope in the Lord -[1739.12 --> 1742.02] For with the Lord is unfailing love -[1742.02 --> 1744.46] And with Him is full redemption -[1744.46 --> 1748.76] He Himself has redeemed us from all our sins -[1748.76 --> 1762.00] Out of the depths I cry to you -[1762.00 --> 1776.14] Out of the depths I cry to you -[1776.14 --> 1781.38] In darkest places I will call -[1781.38 --> 1786.26] Incline your ear to me anew -[1786.26 --> 1791.56] And hear my cry for mercy, Lord -[1791.56 --> 1797.10] Were you to count my sinful ways -[1797.10 --> 1801.88] How could I come before your throne -[1801.88 --> 1807.42] Yet whole forgiveness meets my gaze -[1807.42 --> 1812.02] I stand redeemed by grace alone -[1812.02 --> 1815.16] I will wait for you -[1815.16 --> 1817.66] I will wait for you -[1817.66 --> 1819.74] On your word -[1819.74 --> 1822.40] I will be alive -[1822.40 --> 1825.38] I will wait for you -[1825.38 --> 1827.80] Surely wait for you -[1827.80 --> 1831.72] Till my soul is satisfied -[1831.72 --> 1843.96] So put your hope in God alone -[1843.96 --> 1849.20] Take courage in His power to save -[1849.20 --> 1854.02] Completely and forever won -[1854.02 --> 1859.18] By Christ emerging from the grave -[1859.18 --> 1860.18] I will wait for you -[1860.18 --> 1861.18] I will wait for you -[1861.18 --> 1862.18] I will wait for you -[1862.18 --> 1864.18] I will wait for you -[1864.18 --> 1866.18] On your word -[1866.18 --> 1869.18] I will be alive -[1869.18 --> 1871.18] I will wait for you -[1871.18 --> 1872.18] I will wait for you -[1872.18 --> 1874.18] Only wait for you -[1874.18 --> 1878.18] Till my soul is satisfied -[1878.18 --> 1889.18] His steadfast love has made a way -[1889.18 --> 1895.18] And God Himself has paid the price -[1895.18 --> 1899.18] Let all who trust in Him today -[1899.18 --> 1905.18] Find healing in His sacrifice -[1905.18 --> 1906.18] I will wait for you -[1906.18 --> 1908.18] I will wait for you -[1908.18 --> 1910.18] I will wait for you -[1910.18 --> 1912.18] Through the storm -[1912.18 --> 1915.18] And through the night -[1915.18 --> 1917.18] I will wait for you -[1917.18 --> 1920.18] Surely wait for you -[1920.18 --> 1924.18] For your love is my delight -[1924.18 --> 1927.18] I will wait for you -[1927.18 --> 1938.18] I will wait for you -[1938.18 --> 1940.18] I will wait for you -[1940.18 --> 1949.18] Heavens adore -[1949.18 --> 1950.18] You -[1950.18 --> 1960.76] Out of the depths I cry to you, in darkest places I will call. -[1961.52 --> 1971.76] Incline your ear to me anew, and hear my cry for mercy, Lord. -[1980.18 --> 1981.18] Amen. -[2010.18 --> 2012.18] Amen. -[2040.18 --> 2042.18] Amen. -[2070.18 --> 2072.18] Oh.. -[2083.26 --> 2085.26] Oh.. -[2085.26 --> 2090.00] How strong deliver -[2090.00 --> 2096.54] You are the everlasting God -[2096.54 --> 2100.62] The everlasting God -[2100.62 --> 2104.58] Do not need to walk -[2104.58 --> 2108.10] Only me -[2108.10 --> 2112.62] But I'll defend my own for me -[2112.62 --> 2116.66] You have the thousand weeks -[2116.66 --> 2120.62] You lift us up on weight -[2120.62 --> 2123.62] I feel lost -[2124.16 --> 2128.62] You are the everlasting God -[2128.62 --> 2132.62] The everlasting God -[2132.62 --> 2136.58] You do not make you want -[2136.58 --> 2139.62] Go with me -[2139.62 --> 2143.62] You are the everlasting God -[2143.62 --> 2145.62] You are the everlasting God -[2145.62 --> 2147.62] You are the everlasting God -[2147.62 --> 2149.62] You are the everlasting God -[2149.62 --> 2151.62] You lift us up on weight -[2151.62 --> 2155.62] I need God -[2155.62 --> 2157.62] You are our everlasting God -[2157.62 --> 2161.62] You are the everlasting God -[2161.62 --> 2163.62] You are the everlasting God -[2163.62 --> 2165.62] You are the everlasting God -[2165.62 --> 2167.62] You are the everlasting God -[2167.62 --> 2169.62] You are the everlasting God -[2169.62 --> 2171.62] You are the everlasting God -[2171.62 --> 2173.62] Good morning everyone. My name is Warren Verhoef -[2173.62 --> 2175.62] And I serve as a Deacon here at Langley Emanuel. -[2175.62 --> 2179.62] At this time, we'll worship God through our gifts and offerings. -[2179.62 --> 2186.72] And as we prepare to give, let's reflect on the text in the e-bulletin from Hebrews 13, verse 16, -[2187.48 --> 2188.10] which reads, -[2188.26 --> 2193.36] And do not forget to do good and share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. -[2193.86 --> 2199.02] Our special offering for today is for Resonate, which is the official missions arm of the CRC. -[2199.84 --> 2205.22] Resonate seeks the advancement of God's mission of spreading the gospel through the entire world. -[2205.22 --> 2213.34] And it does so by church planting and missionary training and campus ministries and other leadership training. -[2213.76 --> 2218.68] And it does so in 40 plus countries around the world, as well as here in Canada and even locally here in BC. -[2219.46 --> 2224.42] You may also give to the general budget, which supports the various missions of this church. -[2225.16 --> 2233.20] Just please ensure that all gifts for the general budget are marked as such as all unmarked gifts will be assigned to the special offering. -[2233.20 --> 2235.82] Let's give as the Lord has blessed us. Thank you. -[2235.82 --> 2236.82] Thank you. -[2263.20 --> 2264.20] Thank you. -[2264.20 --> 2265.20] Thank you. -[2265.48 --> 2266.20] Thank you. -[2266.20 --> 2267.20] Thank you. -[2267.20 --> 2270.82] Are you hurting and broken within? -[2271.66 --> 2275.60] Overwhelmed by the wake of your sin? -[2276.18 --> 2278.24] Jesus is calling. -[2281.00 --> 2285.62] Have you come to the end of the sound? -[2286.48 --> 2290.22] Do you thirst for the drink from the breath? -[2290.22 --> 2291.22] Jesus is calling. -[2291.22 --> 2292.22] Jesus is calling. -[2292.22 --> 2293.22] Jesus is calling. -[2293.22 --> 2295.22] Oh, come to the altar. -[2295.22 --> 2299.22] Oh, come to the altar. -[2299.22 --> 2315.22] The Father's altar open while forgiveness was born with the precious one of Jesus Christ. -[2315.22 --> 2316.22] Jesus is calling. -[2316.22 --> 2320.22] Jesus is calling. -[2324.22 --> 2326.22] Jesus is calling. -[2326.22 --> 2329.58] Your regrets in the sightech -[2329.94 --> 2333.76] Come, today, this is reason to wait -[2334.20 --> 2337.96] Jesus is called to You -[2339.30 --> 2343.70] In the sorrows who enjoyment joy -[2344.04 --> 2348.18] Upon the ashes, youth among the war -[2348.52 --> 2351.82] Jesus is called to You -[2351.82 --> 2361.86] Come to the altar, the Father's arms are open wide -[2361.86 --> 2370.82] Forgiveness, the Lord with the precious blood of Jesus Christ -[2371.50 --> 2380.82] Come to the altar, the Father's arms are open wide -[2380.82 --> 2390.82] Forgiveness, the Lord with the precious blood of Jesus Christ -[2390.82 --> 2410.36] Oh, what a safe love, isn't He wonderful? -[2410.36 --> 2418.36] Sing, hallelujah, Christ is risen -[2418.36 --> 2428.36] God will be pardoned, glory and glory of God -[2428.36 --> 2434.36] Sing, hallelujah, Christ is risen -[2434.36 --> 2446.12] Oh, what a safe love, isn't He wonderful? -[2446.36 --> 2452.36] Sing, hallelujah, Christ is risen -[2452.36 --> 2462.36] Come on before Him, glory is God -[2462.36 --> 2470.36] Sing, hallelujah, Christ is risen -[2470.36 --> 2476.36] Come on before Him, glory is risen -[2476.36 --> 2484.36] Come to the altar, the Father's eyes are open wide -[2484.36 --> 2492.36] Forgiveness, the Lord with the precious blood of Jesus Christ -[2492.36 --> 2513.36] Oh, come to the altar. The Father's arms are all divine. Forgiveness is poured within the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[2513.36 --> 2532.36] Hear your cross as you wait for the crown. Tell the world of the treasure you find. -[2543.36 --> 2556.78] We are ready already. I would love to invite all of the kids who are age 3 to grade 4 or anybody else to come up to the front right now. -[2556.78 --> 2560.64] We're going to do some kids' corner before we head to children's worship time. -[2571.42 --> 2572.68] Good morning, everybody. -[2573.80 --> 2578.04] How's everybody doing today? Good? Guess what we're going to talk about today? -[2578.12 --> 2587.20] We're going to talk about two different couples who had to wait for a long time for Jesus to come. -[2588.32 --> 2593.38] But the promise that they were given came true because they were so patient and waited. -[2593.82 --> 2598.08] And I have a friend who knows a little bit about waiting. Should we invite him out? -[2598.54 --> 2600.26] Let's invite him out. Say, come on out, Hank! -[2600.26 --> 2601.60] Come on, Hank! -[2602.64 --> 2603.68] Come on, Hank! -[2605.02 --> 2605.30] Oh! -[2606.86 --> 2607.14] What? -[2609.14 --> 2609.38] What? -[2609.94 --> 2611.20] Who is that? -[2613.58 --> 2614.62] I'm out of hands! -[2614.72 --> 2615.62] Who is that? -[2617.02 --> 2617.46] Hendrietta? -[2619.22 --> 2619.62] Hendrietta? -[2619.70 --> 2621.40] Hendrietta, it's so good to see you! -[2621.60 --> 2623.06] It's been a long time. -[2623.40 --> 2625.30] I hope that I can see you! -[2625.30 --> 2626.46] We'll have to go. -[2626.72 --> 2628.52] Everybody stand up and look at Henrietta. -[2631.42 --> 2634.06] Henrietta's my long-lost cousin, I think. -[2637.34 --> 2639.58] I've been waiting so long to see her. -[2639.66 --> 2641.24] It's so good to see you again. -[2643.26 --> 2645.48] We'll catch up after church, okay? -[2646.32 --> 2646.84] Okay. -[2647.20 --> 2648.48] Good to see you, Henrietta. -[2649.42 --> 2650.76] All right, sit down, sit down. -[2650.76 --> 2656.56] Well, Hank, that is something. -[2656.72 --> 2657.76] Henrietta, yeah! -[2658.10 --> 2660.04] I haven't seen her in years! -[2660.38 --> 2661.32] That's so exciting. -[2661.94 --> 2663.80] I've also been waiting for something else. -[2663.90 --> 2664.18] I know. -[2664.30 --> 2665.32] You know what I did with Hank? -[2665.58 --> 2667.54] He is an expert at waiting, -[2667.68 --> 2670.64] because I've been making him wait for a treat. -[2670.94 --> 2671.40] Yeah! -[2671.90 --> 2672.90] A long time. -[2673.00 --> 2674.48] Hank, how long have you been waiting for this treat? -[2675.50 --> 2676.76] 47 minutes! -[2678.28 --> 2678.76] 47 minutes! -[2678.76 --> 2679.34] 47 minutes! -[2679.62 --> 2682.32] Yeah, but that's like 47 in dog years! -[2682.92 --> 2684.16] 47 years! -[2684.66 --> 2685.38] I was like, well, maybe. -[2685.46 --> 2686.96] I don't know how the puppet dog years work, -[2687.10 --> 2688.24] but we can say, sure. -[2688.72 --> 2690.70] What have you been waiting for? -[2690.88 --> 2693.60] I was promised there would be a bone, -[2693.82 --> 2695.46] but I'm an excellent waiter, -[2696.00 --> 2697.90] not the kind of waiter who carries food. -[2697.96 --> 2699.26] I spill that all the time. -[2699.50 --> 2700.44] My hands don't work, -[2700.70 --> 2702.66] but I'm really good at waiting for things. -[2702.74 --> 2703.08] Watch! -[2703.28 --> 2704.26] All right, Hank, wait! -[2704.26 --> 2704.32] Wait! -[2704.32 --> 2704.36] Wait! -[2704.36 --> 2704.40] Wait! -[2704.40 --> 2704.42] Wait! -[2704.42 --> 2704.44] Wait! -[2704.44 --> 2704.48] Wait! -[2704.48 --> 2704.52] Wait! -[2704.52 --> 2706.40] Wait! -[2706.40 --> 2706.44] Wait! -[2706.44 --> 2708.74] Wait! -[2709.44 --> 2710.36] Pretty good, right? -[2710.36 --> 2711.76] Pretty good, isn't it? -[2711.88 --> 2712.56] Hank, sit! -[2713.96 --> 2715.66] Oh, that's good, too. -[2716.44 --> 2717.26] Hank, speak! -[2717.48 --> 2717.76] Okay! -[2718.22 --> 2719.38] I can talk for a while. -[2719.72 --> 2721.00] When I was little... -[2721.00 --> 2721.48] Hank, that's good. -[2722.80 --> 2725.56] I have a treat for you here on stage, -[2725.64 --> 2727.12] but you haven't been able to find it yet, -[2727.18 --> 2727.60] have you? -[2727.80 --> 2728.22] No! -[2728.68 --> 2729.66] Did you look really hard? -[2729.78 --> 2731.72] I looked so hard! -[2732.06 --> 2733.56] Should we walk to where the treat is, Hank? -[2733.68 --> 2734.36] Yes, please! -[2734.36 --> 2737.28] Now, Hank had to wait a long time for this treat, -[2737.60 --> 2740.50] just like the people in the Bible stories that we're going to look at. -[2741.04 --> 2745.28] Zachariah and Elizabeth and Anna and Simeon had to wait a long time for Jesus. -[2745.86 --> 2748.72] And so, Hank, your treat is all the way over here. -[2751.10 --> 2752.44] I think I found it! -[2752.74 --> 2753.78] It's in the bag! -[2755.78 --> 2756.96] Can you pull it out? -[2756.96 --> 2757.04] Oops! -[2759.96 --> 2760.20] Huh? -[2761.16 --> 2762.26] A bone! -[2766.34 --> 2767.08] Thank you! -[2768.38 --> 2769.44] That is so good! -[2769.54 --> 2770.20] So yummy! -[2770.60 --> 2774.22] All right, we're going to go talk a little bit more about what it means to wait -[2774.22 --> 2776.68] and have our promises answered by God. -[2777.48 --> 2779.80] And so, we're going to go to children's worship time to do that, okay? -[2780.64 --> 2781.70] All right, let's pray. -[2782.06 --> 2784.74] Before we stand up, let's pray, and then we'll do the Lord's blessing, okay? -[2785.34 --> 2785.84] Let's pray. -[2785.84 --> 2786.78] Bow our heads, close our eyes. -[2787.14 --> 2788.72] Dear God, thank you so much for this day. -[2788.82 --> 2789.90] Thank you that we could come to church, -[2790.36 --> 2792.50] and we could learn more about what it means to follow you. -[2792.84 --> 2796.08] We pray that you'll be with us now as we're in children's worship time -[2796.08 --> 2799.86] and be with the grown-ups as well as we learn about what it means to wait for you. -[2800.12 --> 2801.06] We pray this in your name. -[2801.66 --> 2802.02] Amen. -[2802.88 --> 2803.64] All right, stand up. -[2803.70 --> 2804.18] Don't run yet. -[2804.24 --> 2804.80] Don't run yet. -[2806.08 --> 2806.70] Stand up. -[2806.78 --> 2807.26] Stand up. -[2808.40 --> 2810.02] We're going to do the kids' blessings. -[2810.28 --> 2812.44] So, we're going to say, the Lord be with you, okay? -[2812.50 --> 2812.86] Are you ready? -[2813.46 --> 2814.16] And go. -[2814.16 --> 2816.46] The Lord be with you. -[2816.46 --> 2818.34] And also be with you. -[2820.22 --> 2821.56] I'll do my feet now. -[2827.56 --> 2832.30] Parents, just so you know, your kids will be joining you back in the service right after the sermon -[2832.30 --> 2833.72] or towards the end of the sermon. -[2833.86 --> 2838.12] So, I'm just letting you know they'll be joining you for the last two songs today as well. -[2838.20 --> 2841.00] So, that's anybody who's in grade one to four will be coming back to their seats. -[2841.00 --> 2862.02] I'm going to read a book today. -[2862.02 --> 2863.90] Is that okay? -[2863.90 --> 2863.96] Okay? -[2863.96 --> 2864.96] I'm joking. -[2864.96 --> 2866.96] I'm joking. -[2866.96 --> 2868.96] I'm joking. -[2868.96 --> 2870.96] I'm joking. -[2870.96 --> 2871.96] I'm joking. -[2871.96 --> 2872.96] I'm joking. -[2872.96 --> 2873.96] I'm joking. -[2873.96 --> 2874.96] I'm joking. -[2874.96 --> 2881.00] from Council. Thank you to everyone who came out Monday night to the fall general -[2881.00 --> 2886.14] meeting. We had a strong turnout and are grateful for the support for our church -[2886.14 --> 2891.80] family. We also had a lovely dinner together. I guess if you count soup as -[2891.80 --> 2897.90] dinner that's okay. Had a lovely dinner together and a budget for 2026 was -[2897.90 --> 2905.66] approved. I just want to make a comment about there's been two Wednesday night -[2905.66 --> 2909.30] services already. I went to the first one I couldn't make the second one. The third -[2909.30 --> 2913.96] one is on December the 10th. So the first time it was about 35 people, second time -[2913.96 --> 2922.50] about 22 and we'll see the third. I absolutely enjoyed that service. Very -[2922.50 --> 2928.80] informal, very participating with the speaker and whoever was praying or -[2928.80 --> 2935.16] singing or whatever. It was awesome. If you need a midweek pick me up, there's your -[2935.16 --> 2941.58] place. This morning it's my turn to pray. Actually it wasn't but somebody else -[2941.58 --> 2947.24] couldn't make it so here you got me. I want to pray for the people that had -[2947.24 --> 2952.32] surgeries and successful surgeries and that they get a further complete -[2952.32 --> 2960.78] recovery. Also want to pray especially for the shut-ins. We have a few and yeah -[2960.78 --> 2965.94] it's it's it's got to be hard. And then praying for deal people that are dealing -[2965.94 --> 2970.38] with other issues as well. And there's something else I got to do before I pray -[2970.38 --> 2977.80] and it's apologize. We have a friend that comes here from Guatemala and I made -[2977.80 --> 2981.60] some kind of an arrangement to pick him up and I thought because it was sunny today I -[2981.60 --> 2987.12] just drove right past and he's not here. So I apologize. I'll apologize to him when I -[2987.12 --> 2997.20] see him. Let's pray. Father in heaven Lord, your Lord we ask you for your for your -[2997.20 --> 3005.94] guidance. You give it and Lord do we do we comply? Do we, are ears open? Sometimes yes, -[3005.94 --> 3012.36] sometimes no. Lord we we thank you that we can worship you this beautiful sunny -[3012.36 --> 3019.20] morning. We pray will you be with each one of us Lord. We thank you for carrying us -[3019.20 --> 3025.40] through this past week and whatever we experienced Lord whether it was an -[3025.40 --> 3031.86] operation or a visit or whatever Lord. Lord you know us. You know each one of us -[3031.86 --> 3042.16] better than we know ourselves Lord. You know when we when we call out your name and you know when we -[3042.16 --> 3048.84] hide and we don't do that. Lord we thank you so much that we can celebrate Christmas again -[3048.84 --> 3058.64] every year Lord and then comes Easter. Lord we thank you for all you did. We think about the history, -[3058.64 --> 3065.36] your history, our history, our history. We think about your word Lord. We think about this world and the -[3065.36 --> 3071.02] the chaos that seems to be happening all around us but that hasn't changed a lot Lord. Because when you -[3071.02 --> 3077.42] brought the flood you saved just eight people and how many were not saved? Sodom and Gomorrah Lord you -[3077.42 --> 3084.60] you just wiped them out. You haven't changed. Lord we pray will you help us to wake up -[3084.60 --> 3091.72] to know that you are in total control even though things don't go the way we would like it. -[3092.60 --> 3100.26] Lord we pray will you help us this week maybe to spend some time talking with you Lord and listening -[3100.26 --> 3106.50] and again this morning Lord. Pray will you help us to listen. Please be with Chris Lord. Please be with -[3106.50 --> 3112.04] your word. Please help it to resonate with all of us. Thank you in Jesus name. Amen. -[3112.50 --> 3113.50] Amen. -[3113.50 --> 3143.26] This Advent and Christmas season we are going to be looking at what we're calling the -[3143.26 --> 3148.94] cast of Christmas. That is the different people who are involved in the different stories -[3148.94 --> 3157.28] around the first coming of our Lord Jesus. And so this morning we're going to focus on -[3157.28 --> 3165.68] four people that are introduced to us in the gospel of Luke. And so I'm going to invite you to turn -[3165.68 --> 3174.38] in your Bibles or on your devices to Luke 1 and we're going to read verse 5 through 25 and then we're -[3174.38 --> 3188.50] going to turn over to Luke 2 and read verses 25 to 38. Let's read Luke 1 starting at verse 5. -[3188.50 --> 3199.42] In the time of Herod king of Judea there was a priest named Zechariah who belonged to the priestly -[3199.42 --> 3207.66] division of Abijah. His wife Elizabeth was also a descendant of Aaron. Both of them were righteous -[3207.66 --> 3215.36] in the sight of God observing all the Lord's commands and decrees blamelessly. But they were childless -[3215.36 --> 3224.12] because Elizabeth was not able to conceive and they were both very old. Once when Zechariah's -[3224.12 --> 3231.02] division was on duty and he was serving as priest before God he was chosen by lot according to the -[3231.02 --> 3238.06] custom of the priesthood to go into the temple of the Lord and burn incense. And when the time for the -[3238.06 --> 3245.34] burning of incense came all the assembled worshipers were praying outside. Then the angel of the Lord -[3245.34 --> 3251.96] appeared to him standing at the right side of the altar of incense. When Zechariah saw him he was -[3251.96 --> 3259.38] startled and was gripped with fear. But the angel said to him, do not be afraid Zechariah your prayer -[3259.38 --> 3266.54] has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son and you are to call him John. He will be a joy -[3266.54 --> 3272.36] and delight to you and many will rejoice because of his birth for he will be great in the sight of the -[3272.36 --> 3278.26] Lord. He is never to take wine or other fermented drink and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit -[3278.26 --> 3284.04] even before he is born. He will bring back many of the people of Israel to the Lord their God -[3284.04 --> 3290.58] and he will go on before the Lord in the spirit and power of Elijah to turn the hearts of the parents -[3290.58 --> 3296.80] to their children and the disobedience to the wisdom of the righteous to make ready a people prepared -[3296.80 --> 3305.40] for the Lord. Zechariah asked the angel, how can this, how can I be sure of this? I am an old man -[3305.40 --> 3313.36] and my wife is well along in years. The angel said to him, I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God -[3313.36 --> 3320.58] and I have been sent to speak to you and to tell you this good news. And now you will be silent and not -[3320.58 --> 3326.96] able to speak until the day this happens because you did not believe my words which will come true -[3326.96 --> 3334.10] at their appointed time. Meanwhile the people were waiting for Zechariah and wondering why he had stayed -[3334.10 --> 3340.84] so long in the temple and when he came out he could not speak to them. They realized that he had seen a -[3340.84 --> 3348.36] vision in the temple for he kept making signs to them but remained unable to speak. When his time of -[3348.36 --> 3356.08] service was completed he returned home and after this his wife Elizabeth became pregnant and for five -[3356.08 --> 3364.20] months remained in seclusion. The Lord has done this for me she said. In these days he has shown his favor -[3364.20 --> 3375.44] and taken away my disgrace among the people. And now we're going to turn to chapter 2 and starting at -[3375.44 --> 3380.26] verse 25. Read through to 38. -[3385.26 --> 3392.98] Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the -[3392.98 --> 3399.90] consolation of Israel and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that -[3399.90 --> 3407.06] he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Messiah. Moved by the Spirit he went into the temple courts. -[3407.94 --> 3414.54] When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what was custom, what the custom of the law -[3414.54 --> 3422.16] required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God saying, Sovereign Lord as you have promised you may now -[3422.16 --> 3429.30] dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation which you have prepared in the sight -[3429.30 --> 3435.72] of all nations, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and the glory of your people Israel. -[3437.12 --> 3445.12] The child's father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to -[3445.12 --> 3452.64] marry his mother, this child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel and to be a -[3452.64 --> 3459.92] sign that will be spoken against so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed and a sword will -[3459.92 --> 3469.30] pierce your own soul too. There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Penuel of the tribe of Asher. -[3469.30 --> 3476.46] She was very old. She had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage and then was a widow -[3476.46 --> 3483.66] until she was 84. She never left the temple but worshipped night and day, fasting and praying. -[3484.28 --> 3489.96] Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who -[3489.96 --> 3495.70] were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. This is the word of the Lord. -[3499.30 --> 3513.40] We often talk about Christmas as a season of hope and joy and excitement where we sing joy to the world -[3513.40 --> 3526.16] but Advent is a season of waiting, of expectation and I'm quite sure that in this season that some of us -[3526.16 --> 3535.38] are crying out, how amazing is life? And some of us are crying out, how long is this season of life -[3535.38 --> 3545.52] going to be? And maybe you're coming into this Advent season of waiting, carrying unanswered prayers. -[3546.30 --> 3554.76] Maybe you've got unresolved questions. Maybe there's this idea or this wondering that has just been -[3554.76 --> 3560.90] niggling in the back of your mind and you keep fighting to tamp it down but it's always there in the -[3560.90 --> 3571.14] recesses of your mental space. Where is God? Has God forgotten me? Has he passed me by? Have I missed him? -[3572.40 --> 3578.96] Now, of course, most of us here, especially if you're here regularly, like we know the right response in -[3578.96 --> 3584.50] that moment, we know the right answer, the right posture. We know that God is always faithful, that he -[3584.50 --> 3592.74] always keeps his promises but then the years go by and nothing seems to change. In our homes, in our -[3592.74 --> 3602.46] marriages, in our bodies, in our children, in our work, in our world. And in those moments, hope can start to feel -[3602.46 --> 3612.60] like something for other people. That they get to have it but I don't. That hope starts to feel like -[3612.60 --> 3618.48] it's something for the lucky ones, the ones who have it all together, the families who show up and -[3618.48 --> 3625.18] whose kids are perfectly dressed and have their ties nicely tightened around their neck. Not my family who -[3625.18 --> 3630.56] has kids crawling all over the floor and running around and not listening to me, let alone to the person -[3630.56 --> 3639.34] on stage. Hope is for them because they've got it all figured out. Right? Hope is for the ones that -[3639.34 --> 3647.08] God seems to bless more regularly than he does for me. And maybe if you carry that into this season, -[3647.24 --> 3654.08] you know the ache of feeling forgotten by God or feeling overlooked in his plan or like somehow you have -[3654.08 --> 3663.64] missed out on something. And for you, this story matters. Right? God didn't start the first Christmas -[3663.64 --> 3671.64] story with the impressive or influential people, with the loud and the powerful. He started with the -[3671.64 --> 3678.74] overlooked and the forgotten, with the outcasts and the ignored. He started with those who had waited -[3678.74 --> 3686.58] so long that they never expected for anything to happen. He started with people who carry this ache -[3686.58 --> 3695.32] that some of us know all too well. And this morning we're going to dive into four of those stories of -[3695.32 --> 3707.38] Zechariah, Elizabeth, Simeon, and Anna. Four quiet lives. Four faithful but wounded hearts. Four people who lived -[3707.38 --> 3716.62] most of their story long before Jesus ever arrived on the scene. And each of these four embody a different -[3716.62 --> 3727.12] shade or aspect of this same longing, this ache of waiting, a feeling forgotten or overlooked in his plan, -[3727.54 --> 3735.76] just waiting a lifetime for something. Now these are not perfect people by any means, -[3735.76 --> 3744.78] but they are faithful people. They're honest people. In the end, they're hopeful people, but it's a hope -[3744.78 --> 3752.82] that is hard won in their lives. And in Advent, these are precisely the people that God lifts up for us -[3752.82 --> 3761.26] to see. Because their stories show us that waiting is not punishment, delay is not abandonment, and the years -[3761.26 --> 3767.22] that feel wasted are so often the years that God is quietly preparing. -[3768.76 --> 3771.00] And so let's start with Zechariah and Elizabeth. -[3772.06 --> 3778.92] We read early on there that Zechariah is a priest in the temple, and that both he and his wife Elizabeth -[3778.92 --> 3785.04] are descendants of Aaron, which means they're part of the Levitical class. -[3785.04 --> 3795.06] And specifically within that, Zechariah is part of the priests in the Levitical class. They're in the line of Abijah, -[3795.38 --> 3806.18] who we know was chosen by Lot from out of the Levites to serve with 24 other groups, clans of the -[3806.18 --> 3812.36] descendants of Levi and Aaron, to serve in the sanctuary and in the presence of God. -[3812.36 --> 3823.32] Now, by the time that Zechariah is serving, there are about 18,000 priests in this order of 24 clans. -[3824.22 --> 3832.04] And each priest would serve two one-week periods every year in the temple. -[3832.04 --> 3841.98] And then, if they had their lot drawn, they would only officiate the daily offering once in their life. -[3843.26 --> 3847.34] And so once their lot was drawn, it would be removed from selection. -[3847.34 --> 3858.86] That offering, that the perpetual offering, the incense offering, would be lit at nine in the morning and then at three in the afternoon. -[3859.60 --> 3862.30] And it would be an offering of prayer and incense. -[3862.78 --> 3871.30] If you have been part of our Through the Bible in a three years reading, you read about this in the book of Leviticus for our last gathering. -[3871.30 --> 3880.50] Now, I think the point in emphasizing Elizabeth and Aaron, or Zechariah, sorry, as both coming from the line of Aaron, -[3880.74 --> 3889.74] is to highlight, is to bring our attention to their set-apartness, their holiness unto the purposes of God. -[3890.06 --> 3894.26] And this is actually confirmed for us in the text that we read in the next line. -[3894.26 --> 3912.74] Now, let me be really clear, right, that this does not mean that they were perfect or that they were sinless. -[3913.46 --> 3918.70] It does mean that they really loved God and they tried to live in the ways that he calls him. -[3918.70 --> 3927.66] And they did all of the right works of atonement and forgiveness according to the law and to the rituals for purity that existed. -[3927.80 --> 3931.22] Again, if you read the book of Leviticus with us, you know what that looks like. -[3931.74 --> 3939.82] In short, though, it means that their lives matched their heart and their calling. -[3940.92 --> 3945.60] To put it another way, their public life matched their private life. -[3945.60 --> 3952.34] So not perfect, but living a loving devotion to God. -[3953.70 --> 3962.14] Second, because they're called blameless here, I think it's really important for us to see that their childlessness, -[3962.70 --> 3967.98] Elizabeth's inability to have a child, is not a punishment for their sin. -[3967.98 --> 3975.82] Right, they're old, they're without children, and faithful to God's calling on their life. -[3976.94 --> 3985.12] But still, of course, right, Elizabeth especially felt ashamed and heartache at her childlessness. -[3986.06 --> 3992.68] Notice in verse 25 of chapter 1, how she talks about her disgrace being taken away. -[3992.68 --> 3995.94] But there's a sense of disgrace that she carries. -[3996.06 --> 4002.54] Now, there's all sorts of stories throughout the Bible about husbands and wives being unable to have children. -[4003.24 --> 4007.38] Right, and the social disgrace that comes as a result of that. -[4007.46 --> 4010.84] Part of that comes, we know, from the blessing that children are. -[4010.94 --> 4013.80] You can read about that in Psalm 127, for example. -[4013.80 --> 4021.80] Part of that comes from the fact that being fruitful and multiplying is tied to what it means to be human and creative, -[4021.80 --> 4025.02] as God is a creator and we are made in his image. -[4025.10 --> 4026.58] It comes out of Genesis 1, 2. -[4027.88 --> 4034.38] And yet, we also see all of the patriarchs of the faith dealt with fertility issues. -[4035.42 --> 4041.22] Right, we also see the story of Hannah and Elkna as heartbreaking in this context. -[4041.22 --> 4049.32] And actually, that story of Hannah and Elkna in 1 Samuel seems to be behind the way Luke structures his telling of this story. -[4051.22 --> 4058.04] And, honestly, if you've ever struggled with fertility or with an unfulfilled desire for children, -[4058.48 --> 4061.84] you know the feeling that Elizabeth is holding in her heart. -[4061.84 --> 4071.50] Now, Zechariah 2, for all his blamelessness, of course, still has his own doubts. -[4072.10 --> 4074.68] Right, he asks when the angel appears to him, he says, -[4074.84 --> 4076.12] How can I be sure of this? -[4076.60 --> 4080.20] I'm an old man and my wife is well along in years. -[4080.66 --> 4085.10] Now, the text doesn't tell us the tone that he used, -[4085.10 --> 4089.58] but the way that Gabriel responds is telling. -[4090.74 --> 4092.06] Right, Gabriel says, effectively, -[4092.46 --> 4093.64] I am Gabriel. -[4094.06 --> 4096.04] I stand in the presence of God. -[4096.20 --> 4097.40] He sent me to you. -[4097.90 --> 4099.76] It's not just my words you aren't believing. -[4099.88 --> 4101.62] It's the ability of God you're doubting. -[4102.32 --> 4105.40] And since you don't believe what I said, -[4105.54 --> 4106.96] you won't be able to speak. -[4106.96 --> 4113.38] Now, that kind of reaction is appropriate when the dismissal, -[4114.04 --> 4118.56] when the doubt, when the disbelief from Zechariah is quick and haughty. -[4119.34 --> 4121.82] So, again, I think Luke is doing this intentionally. -[4122.80 --> 4125.92] It kind of reminds me of the story of Abraham and Sarah -[4125.92 --> 4130.16] when God tells them that Sarah will become pregnant in her old age -[4130.16 --> 4131.20] and Abraham, too. -[4131.26 --> 4132.96] He questions and Sarah laughs. -[4132.96 --> 4138.76] But still, even with all of that, -[4138.84 --> 4140.78] as far as the characters here go, -[4140.90 --> 4142.60] as far as Zechariah and Elizabeth go, -[4142.98 --> 4146.00] we have two people who aren't perfect, -[4146.38 --> 4148.22] but they are faithful. -[4149.10 --> 4151.22] And they're committed to serving God, -[4151.44 --> 4152.94] even when it's hard, -[4153.34 --> 4155.60] even when their prayers go unanswered. -[4157.14 --> 4159.54] Right, here are two people who don't have it all figured out. -[4159.54 --> 4162.48] Far from it, but they're trying. -[4162.96 --> 4163.70] And they're committed. -[4164.46 --> 4166.84] They're committed to the call of God on their life -[4166.84 --> 4170.20] and struggling to live it out faithfully. -[4173.48 --> 4176.66] Next, we saw Simeon. -[4177.16 --> 4181.12] Now, Simeon we know less about than we do Zechariah and Elizabeth. -[4181.72 --> 4185.22] Of Simeon, one of the people I read this week -[4185.22 --> 4188.52] describes him as an elderly man -[4188.52 --> 4191.92] who now steps out of the darkness of the storyline of Scripture -[4191.92 --> 4193.92] and onto the main stage. -[4194.82 --> 4195.64] And then I would add, -[4195.90 --> 4198.50] goes back into the darkness following this moment. -[4198.62 --> 4200.30] He has one brief appearance. -[4201.10 --> 4204.14] He has no station by which we come to know him. -[4204.22 --> 4208.06] He has no place in the social order by which we should know him. -[4208.06 --> 4212.94] And yet, we do know that he was righteous and devout. -[4213.06 --> 4215.26] We do know that the Holy Spirit was on him -[4215.26 --> 4217.74] and we know that he too was waiting. -[4218.48 --> 4221.94] Waiting, he says, for the consolation of Israel. -[4222.08 --> 4225.54] A phrase that we know means that he was waiting -[4225.54 --> 4228.14] for the start of the age of the Messiah, -[4228.58 --> 4229.88] the Lord's anointed, -[4230.32 --> 4232.10] the one who would save the people. -[4232.20 --> 4234.60] He was waiting for God to remember his people, -[4234.60 --> 4237.96] to speak again for the age of salvation to become. -[4238.06 --> 4242.04] And we read that he was told by the Holy Spirit -[4242.04 --> 4244.64] that he would not die until, -[4244.98 --> 4247.50] before seeing the Lord's Messiah. -[4248.08 --> 4252.08] A promise of God's word that he took to heart -[4252.08 --> 4255.44] and that then shaped how he waited. -[4257.42 --> 4259.70] And after Simeon, we meet Anna. -[4260.62 --> 4262.44] We know that she is a prophet. -[4262.44 --> 4264.88] She's probably called a prophet -[4264.88 --> 4267.60] because she's always in the temple -[4267.60 --> 4270.96] and there she is praying and worshiping and speaking -[4270.96 --> 4273.70] to those who we're looking forward to. -[4274.48 --> 4277.66] Luke writes it as the redemption of Israel. -[4278.50 --> 4282.12] And we're told that she too is very old. -[4282.60 --> 4284.46] And we get a little bit more of her backstory. -[4285.58 --> 4287.88] We're told that she was married for seven years -[4287.88 --> 4289.26] when her husband died. -[4289.26 --> 4292.96] And then in the Bible translation that we have, -[4293.04 --> 4296.68] it says that she was a widow until she was 84 years old. -[4297.80 --> 4300.34] In fact, though, the way that's written in Greek, -[4300.98 --> 4303.62] it probably means not that she was a widow -[4303.62 --> 4305.22] until she was 84 years old, -[4305.24 --> 4307.86] but that she was a widow for 84 years. -[4309.08 --> 4313.44] And so if like most women at that time in Judea, -[4313.44 --> 4316.36] she was married at the age of 13 or so, -[4316.72 --> 4320.30] her husband died sometime in her 21st year, -[4320.54 --> 4323.28] and then 84 years had since passed, -[4323.74 --> 4325.42] which means in all likelihood, -[4325.72 --> 4327.90] she's probably 105 years old. -[4329.36 --> 4332.90] Now, either way, whether it's 105 or 85 or 84, -[4333.46 --> 4335.24] she's old. -[4335.24 --> 4337.58] And in her old age, what does she do? -[4338.42 --> 4340.72] She worships day and night, -[4341.16 --> 4344.80] fasting and praying and speaking prophecy. -[4345.86 --> 4348.06] In response to her tragedy, -[4348.60 --> 4350.62] she focuses her life on God. -[4351.46 --> 4354.58] She turned her trauma into a season -[4354.58 --> 4356.58] and a lifetime of worship. -[4357.18 --> 4359.08] And hear me carefully when I say that, right? -[4359.10 --> 4361.26] Because sometimes when we hear the word worship, -[4361.40 --> 4363.42] we think only happy and clappy. -[4363.42 --> 4364.96] We think songs and dancing. -[4365.40 --> 4366.68] Worship includes lament. -[4367.72 --> 4369.36] Worship includes crying out. -[4369.80 --> 4372.36] Worship includes weeping before the Lord. -[4373.54 --> 4375.94] And so she carries her tragedy -[4375.94 --> 4378.10] into a life of worship. -[4378.30 --> 4381.02] Rather than tragedy pushing her away from God, -[4381.40 --> 4384.78] tragedy actually seems to have driven her closer to God. -[4386.06 --> 4387.22] And because of that, -[4387.34 --> 4391.20] when the great moment of redemption of Israel was upon them, -[4391.20 --> 4396.18] she had eyes to see what so many others around her missed. -[4398.72 --> 4402.10] And so let's pull these four stories together, right? -[4402.14 --> 4406.52] What do Zechariah, Elizabeth, Simeon, and Anna show us -[4406.52 --> 4407.80] when we hold them together? -[4408.80 --> 4410.90] Their stories, taken as a whole, -[4411.58 --> 4414.56] lead us straight into the heart of Advent. -[4414.56 --> 4417.82] Their stories, taken as a whole, -[4418.18 --> 4421.98] lead us to the idea that God fulfills his promises -[4421.98 --> 4423.54] in his perfect time. -[4424.06 --> 4426.90] That our waiting is never wasted. -[4427.54 --> 4430.98] And so we can have patience in the promises of God. -[4431.76 --> 4435.02] That God fulfills his promises in his perfect time. -[4435.30 --> 4437.82] Our waiting is never wasted. -[4438.70 --> 4441.62] And so we can have patience in the promises of God. -[4441.62 --> 4446.70] Each one of these stories is a model for us in this -[4446.70 --> 4449.34] and in a distinct and beautiful way. -[4450.54 --> 4452.62] When we look at Zechariah and Elizabeth, -[4453.20 --> 4456.58] we see two people who are committed to the process, -[4456.94 --> 4458.76] who are faithful in the ordinary, -[4459.32 --> 4461.26] even as things don't go their way. -[4462.18 --> 4462.40] Right? -[4462.42 --> 4464.74] There's a consistency in their lives -[4464.74 --> 4467.04] because of their faith. -[4467.04 --> 4472.54] Archbishop William Temple, -[4473.44 --> 4475.32] who was the Archbishop of Canterbury -[4475.32 --> 4478.02] in the Church of England during World War II, -[4479.06 --> 4482.08] from 1942 to 1944, -[4482.86 --> 4484.22] he famously said, -[4484.38 --> 4487.38] religion is what you do with your solitude. -[4488.78 --> 4492.78] Tim Keller, a bit of a more contemporary preacher -[4492.78 --> 4493.96] back in 2021, -[4494.62 --> 4496.68] said a similar thing. -[4496.68 --> 4499.84] The things we dream about most readily and instinctively -[4499.84 --> 4501.86] when nothing else is occupying our thoughts -[4501.86 --> 4505.06] reveal what we live for and serve. -[4507.14 --> 4510.22] Zechariah and Elizabeth model for us -[4510.22 --> 4514.86] just what it means to live for and serve the Lord -[4514.86 --> 4518.56] even in the midst of our disappointments. -[4519.52 --> 4523.42] Their life together matched their life in the world. -[4523.42 --> 4527.76] There's a consistency between what they professed -[4527.76 --> 4531.46] and what they professed as their religious commitments -[4531.46 --> 4534.96] and the way that caused them to show up -[4534.96 --> 4536.90] in the ordinary parts of life -[4536.90 --> 4540.22] in the regular moments and years as they passed. -[4542.12 --> 4544.32] When I was in my 20s, -[4545.14 --> 4546.38] about 20 years ago, -[4546.76 --> 4549.72] now there was a big study done in Canada. -[4549.72 --> 4553.76] The results of that study were published -[4553.76 --> 4556.64] in a study called Hemorrhaging Faith. -[4556.98 --> 4558.38] It was published in 2011. -[4559.28 --> 4561.24] The big concern at the time -[4561.24 --> 4563.72] was about young adults leaving the church. -[4564.58 --> 4565.94] At the same time, -[4566.06 --> 4567.24] in tandem with this, -[4567.34 --> 4568.12] the CRC, -[4568.34 --> 4570.40] our denomination that we belong to, -[4570.74 --> 4572.46] published some information -[4572.46 --> 4575.30] that sort of verified that idea from within. -[4575.88 --> 4576.54] It talked about -[4576.54 --> 4579.84] that around 60% of people -[4579.84 --> 4581.98] who were baptized in the 80s, -[4582.06 --> 4583.38] which is when I was born, -[4583.72 --> 4586.14] went on to do profession of faith in their 20s. -[4587.82 --> 4589.02] Now one of the reasons -[4589.02 --> 4591.42] that that was noted in there -[4591.42 --> 4594.14] for that hemorrhaging of faith, -[4594.22 --> 4595.54] for young adults leaving the church, -[4595.64 --> 4596.58] for that disconnect -[4596.58 --> 4600.04] was the disconnect -[4600.04 --> 4601.82] between professed belief, -[4601.98 --> 4603.24] what we said we believed, -[4603.54 --> 4606.54] and the lived experience of faith. -[4608.12 --> 4609.96] People told us -[4609.96 --> 4611.34] when we were this age -[4611.34 --> 4612.90] that this mattered -[4612.90 --> 4614.76] and you had to believe these things. -[4615.54 --> 4617.08] But then as we looked around -[4617.08 --> 4618.24] at the lives of the people -[4618.24 --> 4619.54] in our churches, -[4620.06 --> 4621.94] there wasn't that much difference -[4621.94 --> 4623.10] between them -[4623.10 --> 4625.12] and the parents of the people -[4625.12 --> 4626.18] we played sports with. -[4627.36 --> 4629.40] There wasn't this significant impact -[4629.40 --> 4631.32] on their lives -[4631.32 --> 4632.00] of those people -[4632.00 --> 4632.48] who were saying -[4632.48 --> 4633.38] this really matters. -[4634.26 --> 4635.80] But my non-Christian friends, -[4636.16 --> 4636.72] their parents, -[4637.68 --> 4638.78] did the same things, -[4638.90 --> 4639.74] talked the same way, -[4639.86 --> 4640.84] shopped the same way. -[4641.08 --> 4642.34] The only difference was -[4642.34 --> 4643.56] that hour and 15 minutes -[4643.56 --> 4644.32] on Sunday morning -[4644.32 --> 4645.48] when we were in church. -[4648.18 --> 4650.60] Now, I love the fact that -[4650.60 --> 4652.32] fast forward to today, -[4653.46 --> 4653.62] right, -[4653.62 --> 4656.60] and there's new data -[4656.60 --> 4657.52] out there, -[4658.16 --> 4659.80] but young adults -[4659.80 --> 4661.62] still want the exact same thing. -[4662.90 --> 4664.14] The difference is, -[4664.20 --> 4664.98] it seems to me, -[4665.72 --> 4666.50] is that you guys -[4666.50 --> 4667.84] are taking ownership of it. -[4669.44 --> 4670.60] Right, you're not waiting -[4670.60 --> 4671.80] for someone to show you, -[4672.52 --> 4673.62] you're doing it. -[4674.20 --> 4675.24] Right, based on most -[4675.24 --> 4675.84] of the metrics -[4675.84 --> 4676.74] that we have today, -[4677.00 --> 4677.70] the fastest, -[4677.96 --> 4678.54] and candidly, -[4678.54 --> 4680.02] the only part -[4680.02 --> 4680.84] of the Christian church -[4680.84 --> 4681.34] in the West -[4681.34 --> 4682.26] that is experiencing -[4682.26 --> 4683.56] a net growth -[4683.56 --> 4685.82] are the 20-somethings -[4685.82 --> 4687.98] because they're taking -[4687.98 --> 4688.78] ownership of it. -[4689.74 --> 4690.66] And they want -[4690.66 --> 4691.86] a rigorous faith -[4691.86 --> 4694.00] with a rule of life. -[4694.82 --> 4696.86] They want transformed living, -[4697.14 --> 4698.74] something that might cost you, -[4699.54 --> 4701.24] but something that's worth -[4701.24 --> 4701.90] the cost. -[4701.90 --> 4704.96] And I think that's beautiful -[4704.96 --> 4706.18] and awesome. -[4707.88 --> 4709.16] Like Zechariah -[4709.16 --> 4709.82] and Elizabeth, -[4711.40 --> 4712.02] your waiting -[4712.02 --> 4713.68] is not wasted, -[4714.44 --> 4715.68] but it shapes -[4715.68 --> 4717.14] and is shaped -[4717.14 --> 4717.88] by the patience -[4717.88 --> 4719.66] that you have -[4719.66 --> 4720.50] in the promises -[4720.50 --> 4721.84] of God. -[4723.20 --> 4724.60] Now, the same is true -[4724.60 --> 4726.06] of Simeon. -[4726.32 --> 4728.26] Simeon, he waits patiently -[4728.26 --> 4729.78] for the Lord's promise. -[4729.78 --> 4730.98] He doesn't rush -[4730.98 --> 4731.88] in its place -[4731.88 --> 4732.84] he worships. -[4733.50 --> 4734.24] One person -[4734.24 --> 4735.44] that I read this week -[4735.44 --> 4736.18] says, -[4736.48 --> 4738.08] what captures your hearts -[4738.08 --> 4739.86] we see -[4739.86 --> 4741.00] with our eyes. -[4742.70 --> 4743.22] And so, yes, -[4743.40 --> 4744.74] Simeon received -[4744.74 --> 4746.12] divine revelation, -[4746.68 --> 4747.68] but his heart -[4747.68 --> 4748.60] is tuned -[4748.60 --> 4749.72] into Scripture. -[4749.90 --> 4750.34] His heart -[4750.34 --> 4751.20] is tuned -[4751.20 --> 4752.64] into God's Word -[4752.64 --> 4754.06] which prepares him -[4754.06 --> 4755.20] to hear -[4755.20 --> 4756.40] God's revelation. -[4756.82 --> 4757.54] He can hear -[4757.54 --> 4758.78] the voice of God -[4758.78 --> 4760.28] because he recognizes -[4760.28 --> 4761.24] its timbre -[4761.24 --> 4762.46] and its vocal structure. -[4762.70 --> 4763.58] It's familiar -[4763.58 --> 4764.70] to his heart -[4764.70 --> 4766.40] and so he can identify it. -[4768.84 --> 4769.64] I remember -[4769.64 --> 4770.90] when our kids -[4770.90 --> 4771.42] were young, -[4772.36 --> 4773.66] every summer -[4773.66 --> 4774.52] we would hang out -[4774.52 --> 4775.06] at the beach. -[4775.18 --> 4775.52] We lived -[4775.52 --> 4776.60] in a town -[4776.60 --> 4777.64] on Lake Ontario -[4777.64 --> 4778.44] where we had -[4778.44 --> 4779.46] this excellent beach -[4779.46 --> 4780.14] that we would go to. -[4780.26 --> 4780.70] It was four minutes -[4780.70 --> 4781.44] away from our house. -[4782.32 --> 4783.26] And every summer -[4783.26 --> 4784.02] in the evenings -[4784.02 --> 4784.90] or on Saturdays -[4784.90 --> 4785.48] and the afternoons -[4785.48 --> 4786.16] or after church -[4786.16 --> 4786.76] on Sunday, -[4786.76 --> 4788.00] four or five -[4788.00 --> 4788.72] other families -[4788.72 --> 4789.30] would join us -[4789.30 --> 4789.78] and we would go -[4789.78 --> 4790.30] to the beach. -[4790.98 --> 4791.88] And it would be loud. -[4792.14 --> 4792.70] There would be kids -[4792.70 --> 4794.06] playing all over the place. -[4794.46 --> 4795.16] There would be adults -[4795.16 --> 4796.10] talking over here. -[4796.22 --> 4797.30] There's six games -[4797.30 --> 4797.78] of volleyball -[4797.78 --> 4799.02] going on over there. -[4799.08 --> 4799.74] There's a radio -[4799.74 --> 4801.26] blasting over there. -[4801.34 --> 4801.88] There's waves -[4801.88 --> 4802.64] crashing in -[4802.64 --> 4803.22] on the shore. -[4803.64 --> 4804.08] Generally, -[4804.36 --> 4805.18] it was a cacophony -[4805.18 --> 4805.76] of noises -[4805.76 --> 4806.52] and voices. -[4807.24 --> 4807.82] But then, -[4808.02 --> 4808.82] one kid -[4808.82 --> 4810.40] from some 15 feet away -[4810.40 --> 4811.32] sitting in a circle -[4811.32 --> 4812.42] of other kids -[4812.42 --> 4812.90] would say, -[4813.02 --> 4813.28] Mom, -[4813.44 --> 4814.20] I need you. -[4814.20 --> 4816.46] And the right mom -[4816.46 --> 4817.48] who was sitting over here -[4817.48 --> 4818.40] talking with her friends -[4818.40 --> 4818.94] would stop, -[4819.50 --> 4820.20] would say, -[4820.24 --> 4820.78] I hear you, honey. -[4820.90 --> 4821.64] I'll be right there. -[4821.82 --> 4822.78] And she came over -[4822.78 --> 4824.82] and would deal -[4824.82 --> 4825.56] or address -[4825.56 --> 4826.86] whatever needed -[4826.86 --> 4827.72] to be addressed. -[4827.96 --> 4829.42] Through all of that noise -[4829.42 --> 4830.46] in the middle -[4830.46 --> 4831.78] of 80 other things -[4831.78 --> 4833.10] calling for our attention, -[4833.42 --> 4835.30] she heard her child's voice. -[4836.00 --> 4836.70] She was able -[4836.70 --> 4837.46] to pick it out -[4837.46 --> 4838.82] from all of the other -[4838.82 --> 4840.30] voices around her -[4840.30 --> 4841.72] competing with it. -[4841.72 --> 4844.42] The same is true -[4844.42 --> 4845.80] when you know -[4845.80 --> 4846.54] God's voice. -[4847.38 --> 4848.30] When you love -[4848.30 --> 4848.94] God's word, -[4849.68 --> 4850.76] you can pick out -[4850.76 --> 4851.56] what he is saying -[4851.56 --> 4851.98] to you -[4851.98 --> 4852.94] from among the many -[4852.94 --> 4853.80] competing voices -[4853.80 --> 4854.88] in your life. -[4856.24 --> 4857.22] Jesus makes -[4857.22 --> 4858.08] this same point -[4858.08 --> 4858.90] when he describes -[4858.90 --> 4860.26] himself as the good shepherd. -[4861.24 --> 4862.40] Jesus in John 10 -[4862.40 --> 4862.68] says, -[4862.84 --> 4864.04] I am the good shepherd. -[4864.66 --> 4865.20] Then he goes on -[4865.20 --> 4865.44] to say, -[4865.50 --> 4866.42] the sheep listen -[4866.42 --> 4867.98] to his voice. -[4868.18 --> 4869.54] He calls his own sheep -[4869.54 --> 4870.12] by name -[4870.12 --> 4871.14] and leads them out. -[4871.14 --> 4873.04] His sheep follow him -[4873.04 --> 4874.32] because they know -[4874.32 --> 4875.60] his voice. -[4876.92 --> 4877.44] They will never -[4877.44 --> 4878.30] follow a stranger. -[4879.02 --> 4879.44] In fact, -[4879.52 --> 4880.34] they will run away -[4880.34 --> 4880.88] from him -[4880.88 --> 4882.20] because they do not -[4882.20 --> 4882.92] recognize -[4882.92 --> 4884.78] a stranger's voice. -[4886.08 --> 4887.68] The more familiar -[4887.68 --> 4888.56] you are -[4888.56 --> 4889.82] with God's word, -[4889.96 --> 4891.62] the more you will hear -[4891.62 --> 4892.60] God's voice -[4892.60 --> 4893.48] in your heart. -[4894.48 --> 4895.76] And the more you love -[4895.76 --> 4896.32] God's, -[4896.68 --> 4898.04] the more you love God -[4898.04 --> 4899.14] with your whole heart, -[4899.14 --> 4900.64] the more you will hear -[4900.64 --> 4901.82] his word -[4901.82 --> 4903.44] when he speaks to you. -[4904.96 --> 4905.44] And look, -[4905.60 --> 4905.94] of course, -[4906.10 --> 4907.74] don't hear what I'm not saying. -[4908.14 --> 4908.30] Right? -[4908.32 --> 4909.60] I'm not trying to make this -[4909.60 --> 4910.90] formulaic. -[4910.98 --> 4912.06] I'm not trying to make this -[4912.06 --> 4913.22] like a magic bullet -[4913.22 --> 4914.44] or a magic spell -[4914.44 --> 4915.28] whereby somehow -[4915.28 --> 4916.64] if you do the right things, -[4916.92 --> 4917.62] God owes you -[4917.62 --> 4918.64] a speaking and a voice. -[4918.64 --> 4918.86] Right? -[4918.92 --> 4920.08] That kind of manipulation -[4920.08 --> 4921.48] is actually a pagan -[4921.48 --> 4922.90] approach to God. -[4922.90 --> 4924.92] But, -[4925.24 --> 4927.04] every relationship -[4927.04 --> 4928.84] requires work. -[4929.68 --> 4930.62] Every relationship -[4930.62 --> 4932.20] requires investment. -[4933.00 --> 4933.88] And your relationship -[4933.88 --> 4934.32] to God, -[4934.52 --> 4934.70] well, -[4934.76 --> 4936.04] it's not formulaic. -[4936.08 --> 4937.08] It does require -[4937.08 --> 4937.76] discipline. -[4938.78 --> 4938.92] Right? -[4939.04 --> 4940.78] Spiritual discipline. -[4942.16 --> 4942.46] Now, -[4942.52 --> 4943.10] I hear people -[4943.10 --> 4944.20] say this -[4944.20 --> 4944.90] all the time. -[4944.98 --> 4945.84] Something along -[4945.84 --> 4946.46] the lines of, -[4946.72 --> 4948.10] I don't read the Bible -[4948.10 --> 4949.36] because I just don't -[4949.36 --> 4950.32] get anything out of it. -[4950.32 --> 4951.32] But, -[4951.32 --> 4953.12] if that's true, -[4953.48 --> 4954.64] it's also true -[4954.64 --> 4955.84] that you don't -[4955.84 --> 4956.88] get anything out of it -[4956.88 --> 4957.78] because you don't -[4957.78 --> 4958.24] read the Bible. -[4959.40 --> 4959.70] Right? -[4959.72 --> 4960.44] How can you expect -[4960.44 --> 4961.36] to hear the voice -[4961.36 --> 4961.88] of Jesus -[4961.88 --> 4963.28] if you're not familiar -[4963.28 --> 4963.94] with the voice -[4963.94 --> 4964.42] of Jesus? -[4966.30 --> 4966.78] Right? -[4966.80 --> 4967.98] I also hear people -[4967.98 --> 4969.22] say something like, -[4969.36 --> 4970.24] I stopped going -[4970.24 --> 4970.72] to church -[4970.72 --> 4971.24] because I didn't -[4971.24 --> 4972.14] feel anything -[4972.14 --> 4973.18] when I was there. -[4974.20 --> 4974.60] And so, -[4974.70 --> 4975.38] I will ask them. -[4976.16 --> 4976.94] And I do it -[4976.94 --> 4978.06] more pastorally -[4978.06 --> 4978.88] and more sensitively -[4978.88 --> 4979.64] than I might right now. -[4979.72 --> 4979.82] But, -[4980.32 --> 4980.96] I will ask them, -[4981.02 --> 4981.64] did it work? -[4983.24 --> 4983.46] Right? -[4983.50 --> 4984.04] Do you feel -[4984.04 --> 4984.74] something now? -[4985.98 --> 4986.82] And the answer -[4986.82 --> 4987.34] generally -[4987.34 --> 4988.90] is the same. -[4989.76 --> 4989.98] Right? -[4990.02 --> 4990.64] The answer generally -[4990.64 --> 4990.98] is, well, -[4991.06 --> 4991.30] no, -[4991.44 --> 4992.00] not really. -[4992.52 --> 4993.42] I just stopped -[4993.42 --> 4993.88] trying. -[4995.00 --> 4995.24] Right? -[4995.38 --> 4996.16] If it's not going -[4996.16 --> 4996.94] to make a difference, -[4997.94 --> 4998.84] well, -[4998.84 --> 4999.52] I do it different. -[5001.60 --> 5002.76] Which sounds -[5002.76 --> 5003.32] like the same -[5003.32 --> 5003.98] old concern -[5003.98 --> 5005.68] again and again. -[5005.76 --> 5005.86] But, -[5006.32 --> 5007.92] here's an idea -[5007.92 --> 5009.68] that I think -[5009.68 --> 5010.48] is deeply biblical -[5010.48 --> 5010.94] but it's -[5010.94 --> 5011.94] particular construction. -[5011.94 --> 5012.74] I'm borrowing -[5012.74 --> 5014.38] from systems theory, -[5014.54 --> 5015.50] from change theory, -[5015.66 --> 5016.76] from people like -[5016.76 --> 5017.48] Brene Brown. -[5017.62 --> 5018.14] Some of you are -[5018.14 --> 5019.16] familiar with her work. -[5019.16 --> 5021.58] your life -[5021.58 --> 5023.70] is perfectly designed -[5023.70 --> 5024.86] to get you -[5024.86 --> 5025.54] the results -[5025.54 --> 5026.34] you're currently -[5026.34 --> 5026.68] getting. -[5027.62 --> 5028.72] Let me say that again. -[5029.26 --> 5030.04] Your life -[5030.04 --> 5030.74] is perfectly -[5030.74 --> 5031.34] designed -[5031.34 --> 5032.62] to get the results -[5032.62 --> 5033.54] that you are -[5033.54 --> 5034.34] currently getting. -[5034.54 --> 5035.38] If you want -[5035.38 --> 5036.36] different results, -[5037.36 --> 5038.34] you need to do -[5038.34 --> 5039.22] things differently. -[5039.22 --> 5041.88] And this calls -[5041.88 --> 5042.64] for deep -[5042.64 --> 5043.86] change. -[5044.66 --> 5045.98] For life-altering -[5045.98 --> 5046.88] change. -[5047.02 --> 5047.76] If you made -[5047.76 --> 5048.52] a change -[5048.52 --> 5049.62] but the results -[5049.62 --> 5050.18] are the same, -[5051.14 --> 5052.08] the change -[5052.08 --> 5052.72] wasn't deep -[5052.72 --> 5053.10] enough. -[5054.38 --> 5054.80] Right? -[5054.84 --> 5055.38] To the person -[5055.38 --> 5056.02] who stops -[5056.02 --> 5056.94] coming to church -[5056.94 --> 5057.76] because they don't -[5057.76 --> 5058.76] feel anything -[5058.76 --> 5059.92] but then discovers -[5059.92 --> 5060.66] that they still -[5060.66 --> 5061.84] don't feel anything -[5061.84 --> 5062.54] that they thought -[5062.54 --> 5063.16] they should, -[5063.66 --> 5064.36] the change -[5064.36 --> 5065.16] wasn't deep -[5065.16 --> 5065.58] enough. -[5066.74 --> 5067.20] Perhaps -[5067.20 --> 5068.04] it was actually -[5068.04 --> 5068.72] a change -[5068.72 --> 5069.12] in the wrong -[5069.12 --> 5069.64] direction. -[5070.54 --> 5070.98] Right? -[5071.02 --> 5071.48] To the person -[5071.48 --> 5071.94] who stopped -[5071.94 --> 5072.66] reading the Bible -[5072.66 --> 5073.30] because they don't -[5073.30 --> 5073.76] get anything -[5073.76 --> 5074.22] out of it, -[5074.78 --> 5075.68] you could say -[5075.68 --> 5076.16] that you've -[5076.16 --> 5077.14] made a change -[5077.14 --> 5078.04] but you still -[5078.04 --> 5078.60] aren't hearing -[5078.60 --> 5079.02] the voice -[5079.02 --> 5079.38] of the good -[5079.38 --> 5079.68] shepherd. -[5080.34 --> 5080.84] The change -[5080.84 --> 5081.44] wasn't deep -[5081.44 --> 5081.86] enough. -[5082.28 --> 5082.68] It wasn't -[5082.68 --> 5083.02] the right -[5083.02 --> 5083.54] change. -[5083.92 --> 5084.36] Instead, -[5085.06 --> 5085.28] right, -[5085.34 --> 5085.84] the change -[5085.84 --> 5086.54] that we need -[5086.54 --> 5087.02] is to go -[5087.02 --> 5087.94] deeper with -[5087.94 --> 5088.20] God, -[5088.26 --> 5089.10] to draw closer -[5089.10 --> 5090.06] to the shepherd. -[5090.30 --> 5091.18] Like Simeon, -[5091.30 --> 5091.80] to be filled -[5091.80 --> 5092.30] with the Holy -[5092.30 --> 5093.58] Spirit so that -[5093.58 --> 5094.44] when we pray -[5094.44 --> 5095.34] and praise, -[5095.74 --> 5096.20] scripture -[5096.20 --> 5097.24] comes out -[5097.24 --> 5097.68] of us. -[5098.04 --> 5099.06] If you had -[5099.06 --> 5099.76] eyes to -[5099.76 --> 5100.74] see it, -[5100.86 --> 5102.46] when Simeon -[5102.46 --> 5103.52] gives his -[5103.52 --> 5104.84] speech here, -[5105.28 --> 5106.06] when he -[5106.06 --> 5107.96] speaks over -[5107.96 --> 5109.36] the baby -[5109.36 --> 5110.04] Jesus, -[5111.22 --> 5112.26] the words -[5112.26 --> 5112.98] that he says -[5112.98 --> 5113.40] there -[5113.40 --> 5115.88] sound like -[5115.88 --> 5116.32] a scripture -[5116.32 --> 5116.90] quote but -[5116.90 --> 5117.42] they're not -[5117.42 --> 5117.98] a direct -[5117.98 --> 5118.52] quote. -[5118.96 --> 5119.42] It's a -[5119.42 --> 5120.02] paraphrasing -[5120.02 --> 5120.40] of about -[5120.40 --> 5121.32] three places -[5121.32 --> 5122.30] in Isaiah -[5122.30 --> 5122.94] that he pulls -[5122.94 --> 5123.36] together. -[5123.94 --> 5124.44] That's what -[5124.44 --> 5124.94] happens when -[5124.94 --> 5125.18] you know -[5125.18 --> 5125.62] the voice -[5125.62 --> 5126.40] of Jesus, -[5126.40 --> 5126.76] when you're -[5126.76 --> 5127.34] so familiar -[5127.34 --> 5127.82] with God's -[5127.82 --> 5127.98] word, -[5128.08 --> 5128.54] that when -[5128.54 --> 5129.26] you pray, -[5129.72 --> 5130.36] it comes -[5130.36 --> 5131.06] out in -[5131.06 --> 5131.38] the voice -[5131.38 --> 5131.82] of scripture, -[5131.98 --> 5132.54] comes out -[5132.54 --> 5132.82] in the -[5132.82 --> 5133.84] voice of -[5133.84 --> 5134.18] God. -[5135.76 --> 5136.52] If your -[5136.52 --> 5138.10] desire is -[5138.10 --> 5138.64] to really -[5138.64 --> 5139.12] encounter -[5139.12 --> 5139.64] God, -[5140.24 --> 5141.48] don't move -[5141.48 --> 5142.44] away from -[5142.44 --> 5143.46] the ways -[5143.46 --> 5143.76] that he -[5143.76 --> 5144.52] has promised -[5144.52 --> 5144.98] to be -[5144.98 --> 5145.50] present with -[5145.50 --> 5146.00] his people -[5146.00 --> 5147.48] by his -[5147.48 --> 5147.80] word, -[5148.12 --> 5148.72] in the -[5148.72 --> 5149.26] sacraments, -[5149.60 --> 5150.04] through the -[5150.04 --> 5151.06] church community -[5151.06 --> 5151.76] in worship -[5151.76 --> 5152.96] and in life -[5152.96 --> 5153.34] together. -[5153.34 --> 5154.66] God's -[5154.66 --> 5155.04] God's -[5155.04 --> 5155.34] love. -[5155.34 --> 5156.20] This is where -[5156.20 --> 5157.22] Jesus speaks. -[5157.22 --> 5157.38] If you're -[5157.38 --> 5158.06] longing to -[5158.06 --> 5159.08] hear Jesus -[5159.08 --> 5159.82] speak, -[5160.22 --> 5160.96] go to -[5160.96 --> 5161.64] the places -[5161.64 --> 5163.16] he speaks, -[5163.70 --> 5164.34] not away -[5164.34 --> 5164.76] from them. -[5166.24 --> 5166.74] In fact, -[5166.82 --> 5167.18] this is what -[5167.18 --> 5167.50] we see, -[5167.56 --> 5167.78] right, -[5167.90 --> 5168.42] with Anna. -[5169.98 --> 5170.36] Anna, -[5170.48 --> 5170.72] in her -[5170.72 --> 5171.16] tragedy, -[5171.54 --> 5171.96] she chose -[5171.96 --> 5172.28] to go -[5172.28 --> 5172.68] deeper -[5172.68 --> 5173.88] with God. -[5174.54 --> 5175.22] At 84 -[5175.22 --> 5175.84] years old -[5175.84 --> 5176.40] or 105 -[5176.40 --> 5177.50] years old, -[5177.78 --> 5178.42] she still -[5178.42 --> 5179.00] had something -[5179.00 --> 5179.78] to contribute -[5179.78 --> 5180.62] to the -[5180.62 --> 5181.02] purposes -[5181.02 --> 5182.10] of God. -[5183.24 --> 5183.52] And I -[5183.52 --> 5183.84] didn't want -[5183.84 --> 5184.56] to spend -[5184.56 --> 5184.94] too much -[5184.94 --> 5185.36] time here -[5185.36 --> 5185.80] this morning, -[5185.90 --> 5186.58] but she's -[5186.58 --> 5187.54] 105 years -[5187.54 --> 5187.82] old. -[5188.32 --> 5188.82] For those -[5188.82 --> 5189.04] of you -[5189.04 --> 5189.44] who think -[5189.44 --> 5189.82] that being -[5189.82 --> 5190.26] a senior -[5190.26 --> 5190.66] means you -[5190.66 --> 5190.96] don't have -[5190.96 --> 5191.32] to serve -[5191.32 --> 5191.54] in the -[5191.54 --> 5191.74] church -[5191.74 --> 5192.14] anymore, -[5193.10 --> 5193.50] look at -[5193.50 --> 5193.68] Anna. -[5194.80 --> 5195.38] If you -[5195.38 --> 5195.74] think there's -[5195.74 --> 5196.26] retirement -[5196.26 --> 5196.80] in the -[5196.80 --> 5197.08] Christian -[5197.08 --> 5197.54] faith, -[5198.18 --> 5198.48] look at -[5198.48 --> 5198.68] Anna. -[5200.66 --> 5200.90] Right? -[5200.98 --> 5201.78] We continue -[5201.78 --> 5202.66] to serve -[5202.66 --> 5203.42] our Lord -[5203.42 --> 5203.84] and to be -[5203.84 --> 5204.36] used by -[5204.36 --> 5204.82] him even -[5204.82 --> 5205.82] to 105 -[5205.82 --> 5207.42] years old. -[5207.64 --> 5208.04] Amazing. -[5208.92 --> 5209.36] But she -[5209.36 --> 5210.36] shows us -[5210.36 --> 5211.32] that waiting -[5211.32 --> 5212.16] is never -[5212.16 --> 5212.66] wasted -[5212.66 --> 5213.30] when it's -[5213.30 --> 5213.70] offered to -[5213.70 --> 5213.94] God. -[5214.84 --> 5215.44] She shows -[5215.44 --> 5215.78] us that -[5215.78 --> 5216.44] her decades -[5216.44 --> 5216.98] of sorrow -[5216.98 --> 5217.46] did not -[5217.46 --> 5218.54] disqualify her, -[5218.80 --> 5219.34] they shaped -[5219.34 --> 5219.64] her. -[5220.14 --> 5220.64] That her -[5220.64 --> 5221.22] persistent -[5221.22 --> 5222.30] presence in -[5222.30 --> 5222.80] the temple -[5222.80 --> 5223.38] day after -[5223.38 --> 5223.68] day, -[5223.80 --> 5224.60] prayer after -[5224.60 --> 5224.94] prayer, -[5225.22 --> 5225.84] became the -[5225.84 --> 5226.74] very means -[5226.74 --> 5227.26] by which -[5227.26 --> 5227.76] she was -[5227.76 --> 5228.40] able to -[5228.40 --> 5228.98] recognize -[5228.98 --> 5229.76] Jesus the -[5229.76 --> 5230.62] moment that -[5230.62 --> 5231.08] he appeared. -[5231.40 --> 5231.74] And when -[5231.74 --> 5232.30] she did, -[5232.40 --> 5232.94] all those -[5232.94 --> 5233.96] long years -[5233.96 --> 5234.62] of patient -[5234.62 --> 5235.56] faith turned -[5235.56 --> 5236.08] into a -[5236.08 --> 5237.10] testimony that -[5237.10 --> 5237.86] she used to -[5237.86 --> 5238.70] strengthen the -[5238.70 --> 5239.14] hope of -[5239.14 --> 5239.54] others, -[5239.98 --> 5240.74] to strengthen -[5240.74 --> 5241.28] the hope -[5241.28 --> 5241.80] of all -[5241.80 --> 5242.52] those who -[5242.52 --> 5243.06] were waiting -[5243.06 --> 5243.60] for the -[5243.60 --> 5244.48] redemption -[5244.48 --> 5245.82] of Jerusalem. -[5247.06 --> 5248.18] Anna reminds -[5248.18 --> 5249.16] us that -[5249.16 --> 5250.28] God fulfills -[5250.28 --> 5251.06] his promises -[5251.06 --> 5251.92] in his -[5251.92 --> 5253.20] perfect time -[5253.20 --> 5253.70] and that -[5253.70 --> 5254.26] the kind -[5254.26 --> 5255.30] of waiting -[5255.30 --> 5256.18] we give -[5256.18 --> 5257.26] him becomes -[5257.26 --> 5258.00] part of -[5258.00 --> 5258.54] the way -[5258.54 --> 5259.80] he fulfills -[5259.80 --> 5260.60] those promises -[5260.60 --> 5261.72] in us. -[5263.78 --> 5264.16] And so -[5264.16 --> 5264.66] specifically, -[5264.80 --> 5265.26] this is her -[5265.26 --> 5266.16] invitation to -[5266.16 --> 5266.38] us, -[5266.38 --> 5267.38] that even -[5267.38 --> 5268.32] in grief -[5268.32 --> 5269.86] we worship. -[5271.10 --> 5271.82] Even in -[5271.82 --> 5272.42] a lifetime -[5272.42 --> 5273.22] of tragedy -[5273.22 --> 5274.16] and hardship -[5274.16 --> 5275.76] we press -[5275.76 --> 5276.22] into who -[5276.22 --> 5276.74] God is -[5276.74 --> 5277.30] and what -[5277.30 --> 5277.64] God is -[5277.64 --> 5277.96] doing. -[5278.86 --> 5279.56] A life -[5279.56 --> 5279.98] turned -[5279.98 --> 5280.58] towards -[5280.58 --> 5281.00] God -[5281.00 --> 5281.24] through -[5281.24 --> 5281.70] sorrow -[5281.70 --> 5281.96] and -[5281.96 --> 5282.42] questions -[5282.42 --> 5282.68] and -[5282.68 --> 5283.08] loss -[5283.08 --> 5283.60] is -[5283.60 --> 5284.14] still -[5284.14 --> 5284.60] a -[5284.60 --> 5284.86] life -[5284.86 --> 5285.18] well -[5285.18 --> 5285.62] lived -[5285.62 --> 5286.06] because -[5286.06 --> 5286.60] God -[5286.60 --> 5287.34] is -[5287.34 --> 5288.10] good. -[5289.70 --> 5289.90] Anna -[5289.90 --> 5290.36] shows -[5290.36 --> 5290.66] us -[5290.66 --> 5290.90] that -[5290.90 --> 5291.62] faithfulness -[5291.62 --> 5292.00] in the -[5292.00 --> 5292.32] dark -[5292.32 --> 5293.08] is often -[5293.08 --> 5293.92] how God -[5293.92 --> 5294.80] prepares us -[5294.80 --> 5295.40] to see -[5295.40 --> 5296.24] the light. -[5298.16 --> 5298.94] And all -[5298.94 --> 5299.46] of this -[5299.46 --> 5300.70] brings us -[5300.70 --> 5300.96] to the -[5300.96 --> 5301.32] heart -[5301.32 --> 5302.08] then -[5302.08 --> 5302.44] of -[5302.44 --> 5303.14] Advent's -[5303.14 --> 5303.78] hope -[5303.78 --> 5304.96] because -[5304.96 --> 5305.50] ultimately -[5305.50 --> 5306.30] Zechariah -[5306.30 --> 5307.06] and Elizabeth -[5307.06 --> 5307.74] didn't just -[5307.74 --> 5308.52] wait for -[5308.52 --> 5309.38] their child. -[5310.04 --> 5310.32] Simeon -[5310.32 --> 5310.78] didn't just -[5310.78 --> 5311.28] wait for -[5311.28 --> 5311.92] his moment -[5311.92 --> 5312.28] in the -[5312.28 --> 5312.54] temple. -[5312.68 --> 5312.86] Anna -[5312.86 --> 5313.34] didn't just -[5313.34 --> 5313.74] wait for -[5313.74 --> 5314.20] a flicker -[5314.20 --> 5314.78] of comfort -[5314.78 --> 5315.40] in her -[5315.40 --> 5315.68] grief. -[5315.82 --> 5316.22] They were -[5316.22 --> 5316.90] all waiting -[5316.90 --> 5317.38] for a -[5317.38 --> 5317.86] person, -[5318.06 --> 5318.76] for God -[5318.76 --> 5319.28] to take -[5319.28 --> 5319.90] on flesh -[5319.90 --> 5320.44] and make -[5320.44 --> 5321.06] his dwelling -[5321.06 --> 5322.14] among us. -[5322.36 --> 5323.14] And that -[5323.14 --> 5323.62] is the -[5323.62 --> 5324.00] miracle -[5324.00 --> 5324.78] of this -[5324.78 --> 5325.52] season. -[5325.82 --> 5326.04] The -[5326.04 --> 5326.40] God -[5326.40 --> 5326.60] who -[5326.60 --> 5327.06] seemed -[5327.06 --> 5327.62] to be -[5327.62 --> 5328.20] silent -[5328.20 --> 5328.86] had not -[5328.86 --> 5329.38] forgotten -[5329.38 --> 5329.76] them, -[5330.36 --> 5330.88] but his -[5330.88 --> 5331.38] timing was -[5331.38 --> 5331.84] perfect. -[5332.18 --> 5332.30] The -[5332.30 --> 5332.60] God -[5332.60 --> 5332.84] who -[5332.84 --> 5333.56] seemed -[5333.56 --> 5334.12] slow -[5334.12 --> 5334.48] was -[5334.48 --> 5335.10] actually -[5335.10 --> 5335.58] right -[5335.58 --> 5336.10] on -[5336.10 --> 5336.74] time. -[5337.50 --> 5337.84] Every -[5337.84 --> 5338.20] ache, -[5338.34 --> 5338.62] every -[5338.62 --> 5339.04] prayer, -[5339.20 --> 5339.42] every -[5339.42 --> 5339.86] tear, -[5340.18 --> 5340.42] every -[5340.42 --> 5340.82] year -[5340.82 --> 5341.06] of -[5341.06 --> 5341.84] obscurity -[5341.84 --> 5342.40] was -[5342.40 --> 5342.84] leading -[5342.84 --> 5343.28] to -[5343.28 --> 5343.76] this -[5343.76 --> 5344.40] moment, -[5344.54 --> 5344.74] this -[5344.74 --> 5345.40] proclamation -[5345.40 --> 5346.02] of good -[5346.02 --> 5346.42] news, -[5346.52 --> 5346.98] of great -[5346.98 --> 5347.50] joy that -[5347.50 --> 5347.74] will be -[5347.74 --> 5348.22] for all -[5348.22 --> 5348.60] people. -[5348.96 --> 5349.34] Today -[5349.34 --> 5349.76] in the -[5349.76 --> 5350.04] town -[5350.04 --> 5351.12] of David -[5351.12 --> 5351.92] in Bethlehem -[5351.92 --> 5352.22] a -[5352.22 --> 5352.58] savior -[5352.58 --> 5353.64] has been -[5353.64 --> 5354.24] born. -[5354.46 --> 5354.84] This -[5354.84 --> 5355.46] is the -[5355.46 --> 5355.92] gospel, -[5356.24 --> 5356.46] this -[5356.46 --> 5356.82] is the -[5356.82 --> 5357.30] hope of -[5357.30 --> 5357.68] advent, -[5358.02 --> 5358.40] that we -[5358.40 --> 5358.80] will not -[5358.80 --> 5359.68] finally get -[5359.68 --> 5360.26] what we -[5360.26 --> 5360.78] are waiting -[5360.78 --> 5361.20] for, -[5361.30 --> 5361.66] but that -[5361.66 --> 5362.14] God -[5362.14 --> 5362.88] himself -[5362.88 --> 5364.38] has -[5364.38 --> 5364.70] finally -[5364.70 --> 5365.16] come -[5365.16 --> 5366.38] into the -[5366.38 --> 5366.68] world. -[5367.54 --> 5368.38] He is the -[5368.38 --> 5369.20] consolation -[5369.20 --> 5370.14] that Simeon -[5370.14 --> 5370.74] longed for, -[5370.84 --> 5371.42] the redemption -[5371.42 --> 5372.24] that Anna -[5372.24 --> 5372.70] proclaimed, -[5372.86 --> 5373.44] the mercy -[5373.44 --> 5374.32] that Elizabeth -[5374.32 --> 5375.10] rejoiced in, -[5375.16 --> 5375.82] the salvation -[5375.82 --> 5377.04] that Zechariah -[5377.04 --> 5377.76] sang over. -[5378.08 --> 5378.76] Everything -[5378.76 --> 5379.54] they waited -[5379.54 --> 5380.22] for is -[5380.22 --> 5380.60] found -[5380.60 --> 5381.18] in -[5381.18 --> 5381.90] him. -[5383.70 --> 5384.04] And this -[5384.04 --> 5384.22] is the -[5384.22 --> 5384.50] good news -[5384.50 --> 5385.00] for us -[5385.00 --> 5385.38] too. -[5386.22 --> 5386.44] Right? -[5386.50 --> 5387.04] Your life -[5387.04 --> 5387.58] is not -[5387.58 --> 5388.14] overlooked. -[5388.70 --> 5388.96] Your -[5388.96 --> 5389.36] waiting -[5389.36 --> 5389.98] is not -[5389.98 --> 5390.44] wasted. -[5390.86 --> 5390.98] Your -[5390.98 --> 5391.54] story -[5391.54 --> 5392.14] is held -[5392.14 --> 5392.50] in the -[5392.50 --> 5392.92] hands -[5392.92 --> 5393.52] of the -[5393.52 --> 5393.82] one -[5393.82 --> 5394.06] who -[5394.06 --> 5394.48] stepped -[5394.48 --> 5394.94] into -[5394.94 --> 5395.34] our -[5395.34 --> 5395.70] world -[5395.70 --> 5395.92] and -[5395.92 --> 5396.16] took -[5396.16 --> 5396.40] on -[5396.40 --> 5396.66] our -[5396.66 --> 5396.98] flesh, -[5397.36 --> 5397.64] bore -[5397.64 --> 5398.00] our -[5398.00 --> 5398.58] griefs, -[5398.58 --> 5399.38] and rose -[5399.38 --> 5399.98] to give -[5399.98 --> 5400.40] us -[5400.40 --> 5401.18] life. -[5401.78 --> 5402.18] He -[5402.18 --> 5402.64] is -[5402.64 --> 5403.28] Emmanuel, -[5403.84 --> 5404.16] God -[5404.16 --> 5404.52] with -[5404.52 --> 5405.02] us, -[5405.20 --> 5405.54] God -[5405.54 --> 5406.22] with -[5406.22 --> 5406.82] you. -[5406.82 --> 5408.98] So we -[5408.98 --> 5409.46] enter this -[5409.46 --> 5409.76] Advent -[5409.76 --> 5410.30] season, -[5411.14 --> 5413.96] we don't -[5413.96 --> 5414.30] enter it -[5414.30 --> 5414.60] alone. -[5415.74 --> 5416.38] You -[5416.38 --> 5416.86] don't -[5416.86 --> 5417.20] wait -[5417.20 --> 5418.22] alone. -[5419.02 --> 5419.56] You -[5419.56 --> 5419.72] wait -[5419.72 --> 5419.86] with -[5419.86 --> 5419.98] the -[5419.98 --> 5420.30] church, -[5420.78 --> 5420.98] you -[5420.98 --> 5421.16] wait -[5421.16 --> 5421.38] with -[5421.38 --> 5421.70] these -[5421.70 --> 5422.38] saints, -[5422.56 --> 5422.72] these -[5422.72 --> 5423.04] brothers -[5423.04 --> 5423.40] and -[5423.40 --> 5423.76] sisters -[5423.76 --> 5424.02] in -[5424.02 --> 5424.14] the -[5424.14 --> 5424.34] Lord, -[5424.42 --> 5424.54] and -[5424.54 --> 5424.84] most -[5424.84 --> 5425.02] of -[5425.02 --> 5425.20] all, -[5425.54 --> 5425.66] you -[5425.66 --> 5426.02] wait -[5426.02 --> 5426.32] with -[5426.32 --> 5426.62] the -[5426.62 --> 5426.92] Savior -[5426.92 --> 5427.22] who -[5427.22 --> 5427.38] has -[5427.38 --> 5427.88] already -[5427.88 --> 5428.40] come -[5428.40 --> 5428.92] and -[5428.92 --> 5429.12] who -[5429.12 --> 5429.44] will -[5429.44 --> 5429.80] come -[5429.80 --> 5430.22] again. -[5431.86 --> 5432.26] So may -[5432.26 --> 5432.66] you lift -[5432.66 --> 5433.20] your eyes -[5433.20 --> 5433.44] in -[5433.44 --> 5433.74] hope. -[5434.44 --> 5434.64] May -[5434.64 --> 5434.80] you -[5434.80 --> 5435.16] offer -[5435.16 --> 5435.44] your -[5435.44 --> 5435.82] waiting -[5435.82 --> 5436.26] to -[5436.26 --> 5436.64] God -[5436.64 --> 5437.10] may -[5437.10 --> 5437.30] you -[5437.30 --> 5437.70] listen -[5437.70 --> 5438.00] for -[5438.00 --> 5438.32] his -[5438.32 --> 5438.74] voice -[5438.74 --> 5438.98] in -[5438.98 --> 5439.14] the -[5439.14 --> 5439.54] noise -[5439.54 --> 5439.76] of -[5439.76 --> 5439.98] these -[5439.98 --> 5440.34] days. -[5441.14 --> 5441.52] And -[5441.52 --> 5441.64] may -[5441.64 --> 5441.80] the -[5441.80 --> 5442.14] God -[5442.14 --> 5442.34] who -[5442.34 --> 5442.74] fulfilled -[5442.74 --> 5443.22] every -[5443.22 --> 5443.72] promise -[5443.72 --> 5443.94] in -[5443.94 --> 5444.08] the -[5444.08 --> 5444.32] birth -[5444.32 --> 5444.50] of -[5444.50 --> 5444.70] his -[5444.70 --> 5444.98] son -[5444.98 --> 5445.68] fill -[5445.68 --> 5446.00] you -[5446.00 --> 5446.28] with -[5446.28 --> 5447.00] certainty -[5447.00 --> 5447.66] that -[5447.66 --> 5447.84] he -[5447.84 --> 5448.06] has -[5448.06 --> 5448.34] not -[5448.34 --> 5448.84] forgotten -[5448.84 --> 5449.18] you, -[5449.70 --> 5450.52] that -[5450.52 --> 5450.66] he -[5450.66 --> 5450.84] is -[5450.84 --> 5451.48] nearer -[5451.48 --> 5451.68] than -[5451.68 --> 5451.96] you -[5451.96 --> 5452.34] think, -[5452.42 --> 5452.54] that -[5452.54 --> 5452.84] he -[5452.84 --> 5453.20] is -[5453.20 --> 5453.48] not -[5453.48 --> 5453.84] done -[5453.84 --> 5454.22] with -[5454.22 --> 5454.74] your -[5454.74 --> 5455.52] story. -[5456.34 --> 5456.94] Because -[5456.94 --> 5457.34] Christ -[5457.34 --> 5457.62] has -[5457.62 --> 5458.08] come, -[5458.26 --> 5458.60] Christ -[5458.60 --> 5459.08] is -[5459.08 --> 5459.90] coming, -[5460.78 --> 5461.26] and -[5461.26 --> 5461.44] in -[5461.44 --> 5461.84] him -[5461.84 --> 5462.70] none, -[5463.30 --> 5463.90] none, -[5464.06 --> 5464.60] not one -[5464.60 --> 5465.64] moment of -[5465.64 --> 5465.84] your -[5465.84 --> 5466.26] waiting, -[5466.64 --> 5467.16] is -[5467.16 --> 5467.54] wasted. -[5468.38 --> 5468.68] Amen. -[5469.40 --> 5469.82] Let's pray -[5469.82 --> 5470.16] together. -[5476.72 --> 5477.64] Lord Jesus, -[5477.76 --> 5478.16] as we -[5478.16 --> 5479.62] look to -[5479.62 --> 5480.06] your -[5480.06 --> 5480.64] first -[5480.64 --> 5481.24] coming, -[5481.60 --> 5481.92] stir -[5481.92 --> 5482.96] in us -[5482.96 --> 5483.68] a hope -[5483.68 --> 5484.52] for your -[5484.52 --> 5484.98] second -[5484.98 --> 5485.66] coming. -[5485.66 --> 5488.16] as we -[5488.16 --> 5488.82] look to -[5488.82 --> 5489.60] your -[5489.60 --> 5490.60] faithfulness, -[5490.60 --> 5491.20] to your -[5491.20 --> 5491.70] promises, -[5492.52 --> 5493.40] fill us -[5493.40 --> 5493.88] with -[5493.88 --> 5494.70] an -[5494.70 --> 5496.28] unquenchable -[5496.28 --> 5496.84] hope. -[5498.40 --> 5498.70] Fill -[5498.70 --> 5499.12] us -[5499.12 --> 5499.52] with a -[5499.52 --> 5500.00] desire -[5500.00 --> 5500.34] to -[5500.34 --> 5501.24] hear -[5501.24 --> 5501.58] your -[5501.58 --> 5502.06] voice -[5502.06 --> 5502.54] and to -[5502.54 --> 5502.90] know -[5502.90 --> 5503.36] you -[5503.36 --> 5504.12] more. -[5506.02 --> 5506.64] Move -[5506.64 --> 5507.30] in us, -[5507.40 --> 5508.28] in all -[5508.28 --> 5508.70] of us -[5508.70 --> 5508.98] here -[5508.98 --> 5509.52] right now, -[5509.62 --> 5510.24] move in -[5510.24 --> 5511.08] Langley, -[5511.18 --> 5511.64] Emmanuel, -[5511.64 --> 5512.84] no matter -[5512.84 --> 5513.74] how old -[5513.74 --> 5514.22] we are, -[5514.30 --> 5514.68] whether we -[5514.68 --> 5515.10] are in -[5515.10 --> 5515.82] grade four -[5515.82 --> 5516.62] or 104, -[5517.34 --> 5518.24] move in -[5518.24 --> 5519.62] us that -[5519.62 --> 5520.10] we might -[5520.10 --> 5521.92] draw closer -[5521.92 --> 5522.88] to you. -[5524.46 --> 5525.20] Move in -[5525.20 --> 5525.64] us that -[5525.64 --> 5526.00] we might -[5526.00 --> 5526.28] take -[5526.28 --> 5527.10] seriously the -[5527.10 --> 5527.58] call and -[5527.58 --> 5528.22] the responsibility -[5528.22 --> 5529.20] of faith, -[5529.86 --> 5530.30] that we -[5530.30 --> 5530.70] might take -[5530.70 --> 5531.46] ownership for -[5531.46 --> 5532.00] the gift -[5532.00 --> 5532.74] that you -[5532.74 --> 5533.20] have given -[5533.20 --> 5533.68] us. -[5533.68 --> 5536.68] God, -[5536.76 --> 5536.98] as we -[5536.98 --> 5537.32] go out -[5537.32 --> 5537.76] into this -[5537.76 --> 5538.08] world, -[5538.68 --> 5539.04] may we -[5539.04 --> 5539.74] be a -[5539.74 --> 5540.52] people of -[5540.52 --> 5542.02] sure hope, -[5542.30 --> 5542.96] of deep -[5542.96 --> 5543.84] conviction, -[5545.12 --> 5547.38] and of -[5547.38 --> 5547.98] beautiful -[5547.98 --> 5549.08] love. -[5550.80 --> 5551.60] That through -[5551.60 --> 5552.16] our lives -[5552.16 --> 5552.62] and our -[5552.62 --> 5553.00] words, -[5553.46 --> 5553.86] others -[5553.86 --> 5554.58] might see -[5554.58 --> 5555.72] and know, -[5555.82 --> 5556.20] that others -[5556.20 --> 5557.28] may wonder, -[5557.72 --> 5558.34] what is -[5558.34 --> 5559.12] this hope -[5559.12 --> 5559.68] that you -[5559.68 --> 5560.04] have? -[5561.84 --> 5562.50] Give us -[5562.50 --> 5563.24] an opportunity -[5563.24 --> 5563.90] and give -[5563.90 --> 5564.24] us the -[5564.24 --> 5564.76] courage to -[5564.76 --> 5565.26] take the -[5565.26 --> 5565.78] opportunities -[5565.78 --> 5566.72] to then -[5566.72 --> 5568.00] tell your -[5568.00 --> 5568.80] story, -[5569.56 --> 5570.40] your story -[5570.40 --> 5570.94] of being at -[5570.94 --> 5571.42] work in the -[5571.42 --> 5571.68] world, -[5571.74 --> 5572.22] even now, -[5572.50 --> 5572.98] even today, -[5573.12 --> 5573.96] even in this -[5573.96 --> 5574.70] darkness. -[5575.00 --> 5575.38] May your -[5575.38 --> 5576.32] light shine -[5576.32 --> 5577.36] through us. -[5577.76 --> 5578.30] In Jesus -[5578.30 --> 5579.02] Christ we -[5579.02 --> 5579.30] pray. -[5579.92 --> 5580.28] Amen. -[5593.24 --> 5612.12] Still, my soul, be -[5612.12 --> 5614.50] still, and do not fear. -[5614.50 --> 5620.40] Do not fear, the winds of change may rise to me. -[5620.40 --> 5633.40] God, is that your Son no longer dread the fires of unexpected storm? -[5633.78 --> 5644.40] Love, love, love, and I will trust in you and not be shaken. -[5644.50 --> 5658.20] And all of this will be a stopless man within me to rise in you. -[5658.20 --> 5668.20] Oh, still, my soul, be still. -[5668.20 --> 5675.20] Do not fear, do not fear, the winds of change may rise to me. -[5675.20 --> 5686.82] Oh, I will watch in his ways with shield of faith against sensations clean. -[5686.82 --> 5698.82] Oh, God, you are my God, and I will trust in you and not be shaken. -[5698.82 --> 5700.82] Lord, I will trust in you and not be shaken. -[5700.82 --> 5704.82] Lord, I will trust in you and not be shaken. -[5704.82 --> 5712.82] The stuff that's here and within me to rise in you alone. -[5712.82 --> 5718.82] Oh, God, I will trust in you and not be shaken. -[5718.82 --> 5722.82] Help, my soul, be still. -[5722.82 --> 5729.82] Do not forsake the truth you learned in the beginning. -[5729.82 --> 5737.82] Wake upon the Lord and hope will rise. -[5737.82 --> 5739.82] The stars appear when days are coming. -[5739.82 --> 5741.82] The stars appear when days are coming. -[5741.82 --> 5753.82] God, you are my God, and I will trust in you and not be shaken. -[5753.82 --> 5760.82] Lord, I will trust in you and not be shaken. -[5760.82 --> 5774.82] Lord, I will trust in you and not be shaken. -[5774.82 --> 5777.82] Lord, I will trust in you and not be shaken. -[5777.82 --> 5781.82] Lord, I will peace renew. -[5781.82 --> 5792.82] The sun has worn within me to rest in you alone. -[5804.82 --> 5813.68] before we receive our sending blessing, just a quick encouragement. If you would like to meet -[5813.68 --> 5819.34] someone for prayer, there'll be someone up here who'd love to connect with you and pray with you. -[5820.18 --> 5825.14] And also, I was reminded of one announcement that I did forget at the beginning. That is, -[5825.14 --> 5831.66] next Saturday, we have a worship service at Sunridge Gardens at 2 p.m. And so, -[5831.66 --> 5835.72] even though there's an event happening here, there'll be another event happening -[5835.72 --> 5842.38] over at Sunridge. If you want to sing some Christmas carols and hymns, join us there, -[5843.24 --> 5847.72] 2 p.m. Sunridge, up the hill. You can connect with me if you have any questions about that. -[5848.40 --> 5857.56] Receive the blessing of our God. God go before you to lead you. God go behind you to protect you. -[5857.56 --> 5864.74] God go beneath you to support you. And God go beside you to befriend you. Do not be afraid. -[5865.26 --> 5873.16] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5873.16 --> 5874.58] Amen. -[5887.56 --> 5901.02] Let the blessing of God. -[5901.02 --> 5904.40] Lordhh. -[5904.40 --> 5914.68] Let the blessing of God call you just a reminder here serving God unto you today. -[5914.68 --> 5919.68] We hail the earth with hills of His word -[5919.68 --> 5924.68] Join the hill of the highest heaven -[5924.68 --> 5928.68] Long as the world falls to stone -[5928.68 --> 5934.68] From the angels' veil, the music is found -[5934.68 --> 5940.68] What a boring world, then hope brings our rise -[5940.68 --> 5948.68] The shadows tonight, turn your heart to the call of glory -[5948.68 --> 5954.68] Glory to God in the highest -[5954.68 --> 5960.68] Peace to men on earth -[5960.68 --> 5966.68] Come and adore Him with wonder -[5966.68 --> 5972.68] Christ, Lord, and heaven and earth -[5972.68 --> 5978.68] Here is the day all creation has longed for -[5978.68 --> 5982.68] When all the time has been spent -[5982.68 --> 5988.68] When the Lord returns, His song will repeat -[5988.68 --> 5994.68] As heaven completes, promised peace -[5994.68 --> 5996.68] That will fill the nations -[5996.68 --> 6002.68] Glory to God in the highest -[6002.68 --> 6008.68] Peace to men on earth -[6008.68 --> 6014.68] Come and adore Him with wonder -[6014.68 --> 6020.68] Christ, Lord of heaven and earth -[6020.68 --> 6026.68] Glory to God in the highest -[6026.68 --> 6032.68] Peace to men on earth -[6032.68 --> 6036.68] Come and adore Him with wonder -[6036.68 --> 6038.68] Come and adore Him with wonder -[6038.68 --> 6042.68] Christ, Lord of heaven and earth -[6042.68 --> 6044.68] Come and adore Him with wonder -[6044.68 --> 6046.68] Christ, Lord of heaven and earth -[6046.68 --> 6050.68] Glory to God in the highest -[6050.68 --> 6052.68] Peace to men on earth -[6052.68 --> 6072.68] Christ, Lord of heaven and earth -[6072.68 --> 6077.68] Christ, Lord of heaven and earth -[6077.68 --> 6107.66] Thank you. -[6107.68 --> 6137.66] Thank you. -[6137.68 --> 6167.66] Thank you. -[6167.68 --> 6168.68] Thank you. -[6197.68 --> 6198.68] Thank you. -[6227.68 --> 6228.68] Thank you. -[6257.68 --> 6258.68] Thank you. -[6258.68 --> 6259.68] Thank you. -[6287.68 --> 6288.68] Thank you. -[6288.68 --> 6289.68] Thank you. -[6317.68 --> 6318.68] Thank you. -[6318.68 --> 6319.68] Thank you. -[6347.68 --> 6349.68] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, November 9, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, November 9, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0e6833aebbcb127e24168779c9cbdcd8bb712760..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, November 9, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,126 +0,0 @@ -• Prayers for life, health, and new life -• Thanking God for blessings and well-being -• Forgiveness and seeking forgiveness from others -• Seeking guidance and wisdom in following God's word -• Asking God to lead, protect, and deliver from evil -• Requesting Pastor Chris's guidance in speaking God's words -• The speaker continues their study of the book of Ecclesiastes and reads chapters 7:1-25. -• The passage discusses various themes, including: - + The importance of wisdom and understanding - + The fleeting nature of life and possessions - + The dangers of excessive pride and anger - + The limitations of human knowledge and power - + The need to maintain a balance between being righteous and not overdoing it - + The reality that no one is completely righteous or sinless -• The speaker notes the strangeness of Ecclesiastes, especially in this chapter, and suggests that it may be why people have questioned its authorship. -• The speaker compares the Ecclesiastes text to the Book of Proverbs -• The speaker warns that time won't permit thorough reflection on each verse in Ecclesiastes -• The speaker introduces a song by Neil Young, "Don't Let It Bring You Down," as a reference point for understanding the message of Ecclesiastes -• The lyrics of the song capture the weary compassion of one who sees injustice and feels powerless to change it -• The song's chorus conveys a sense of resignation and faint hope -• The speaker argues that poets and songwriters often name the ache of a generation, capturing the ethos of a cultural moment -• The message of Ecclesiastes is conveyed in two parts: 1) we are not in control, and 2) we can't explain everything -• Injustice and oppression are pervasive in the world -• Many people live with a sense of darkness or hurt that won't go away -• Humans have an impulse to master life through reason, productivity, etc. -• Life often resists control and comprehension, leading to two options: escaping reality or living in accordance with wisdom -• Wisdom is not enough; it's better but not sufficient for happiness or fulfillment -• Living as creatures before a Creator leads to a different perspective on life and its meaning -• The concept of wisdom is not about being sentimental or self-assured, but rather sobered by death and chastened by suffering -• Death is the destiny of everyone, and living with the end in view changes how we see the present -• Wisdom begins with awareness of mortality, and the wise heart faces thoughts of death while the foolish heart avoids them -• The wise person measures life by its true scale and lives each day as a gift from God's hand -• Heeding the rebuke of a wise person is better than listening to the song of fools -• Faithful wounds are those that heal, such as the wounds inflicted by friends who correct us. -• Pain and suffering as instruments of God's love -• The concept of "severe mercy" (God using pain for good) -• C.S. Lewis' use of the phrase "severe mercy" -• John Calvin's idea of "fatherly chastisements" as evidence of God's love -• Recognizing kindness and mercy in times of tribulation -• Suffering as medicine, not punishment -• Wisdom accepts painful rebuke as divine friendship -• The fool resents correction, the wise receives it as grace -• Uncertainty and loss can lead to questioning God's love and discipline -• Tension between severe mercies and impossible reality with a purpose -• Absence can be refinement, rejection can be the hand of a faithful friend -• The concept of judgment and its role in drawing one closer to God -• The idea that part of wisdom is learning to pray for both relief from suffering and trust in God's plan -• Faith does not always mean understanding, but trusting that even wounds are held in love by God -• Acknowledging the difficulty of carrying past wounds and the importance of trust in God -• Recognizing that it would be harder without God's purpose or control in one's life -• Nostalgia as spiritual escapism -• Longing for a past that never really existed -• Nostalgia as veiled protest against God's providence in the present -• Danger of idealizing the past and accusing God of mishandling time -• Human temptation to believe in a golden age of simplicity, purity, and better times -• Nostalgia as new form of escapism from the present moment -• The speaker discusses the undertones of exclusion and a desire for how the world once was -• Nostalgia can be seen in political movements and cultural rhetoric that dresses up fear as a virtue -• This nostalgia is exposed as hidden forms of racism, sexism, xenophobia, and fear of the foreigner -• A theological critique of nostalgia reveals its flaws and shows that wisdom looks forward with humility, not backwards in fear -• God calls us to receive his presence in the present moment, rather than trying to recover a mythical past -• The speaker emphasizes the importance of contentment, meeting God here and now, and trusting in his faithfulness then, now, and in the future -• Considering both good and bad times as gifts from God -• Viewing life through the lens of God's providence -• Accepting both joy and sorrow as coming from the same hand of the sovereign Lord -• Trusting in God's sovereignty, especially in difficult times -• Embracing merciful realism or hopeful realism, seeing both darkness and good in the world -• Trusting in God's purposes and resting in his sovereign plan -• Paradox of wisdom: the more you understand life, the more mysterious it becomes -• The pursuit of wisdom exposes our limits rather than revealing our strength -• Even wisdom has its ceiling, but by faith and surrender to God, that ceiling can become a window -• True wisdom ends in surrender, not self-awareness or self-assurance -• Wisdom is about humility, not mastery -• The nature of wisdom and its limitations -• The relationship between God's sovereignty and human limitations -• The distinction between right-thinking and right-loving wisdom -• The role of faith in finding hope beyond human understanding -• The fullness of wisdom revealed through Jesus Christ, who lived perfectly obediently, trusting, loving, and died for humanity's folly and failure -• The expression of God's mercy and wisdom is found in Jesus Christ -• Where human understanding falls short, Jesus perfectly fulfills -• Seeing Jesus as a living, loving, redeeming God who meets us in brokenness and suffering -• Wisdom shapes both our hearts and minds -• Christian worship involves orienting one's heart to God in every moment -• Living out this wisdom requires a pattern of merciful realism and the power of the Holy Spirit -• Spiritual disciplines as rhythms of resistance -• Trust in God during suffering through prayers like "Lord, don't waste this pain" -• Reflection on life's finiteness and God's sovereignty through prayers like "God, graciously remind me that my life is finite, but you are sovereign" -• The importance of faithful correction and spiritual guidance in one's life -• Seeing mercies, wounds, and chastisements as coming from a loving God -• Jesus' ability to calm life's chaos and straighten crookedness -• Resting, loving, and walking faithfully with Jesus -• The power of prayer and seeking guidance from a holy God -• The Lord's Supper as a time to dine with Christ -• Gratitude and thanksgiving to God for creation, covenant, and salvation through Jesus Christ -• The institution of the Lord's Supper by Jesus, including the bread and cup as symbols of his body and blood -• The significance of remembrance and proclamation of Christ's death and resurrection -• Invitation to all who love and trust in Jesus alone for their salvation to come to the table -• Invitation to the table of communion, regardless of past attendance or success in following Jesus -• Explanation of who is invited (those present and those at home online) -• Description of the gifts of God available for the people of God through this supper -• Instructions on how to partake in the supper, including: - • Gathering around the table row by row - • Serving elders will guide individuals forward or serve them in their seats if unable to come forward - • Special accommodations for gluten-free bread and juice - • Invitation for families with children to participate - • Procedure for communion, including blessing of bread and cup and saying "this is Christ's body/blood shed for you" -• Discussion of biblical concept of "Lamb of God" -• Reference to Jesus Christ as the Lamb of God -• Praise and worship of Jesus Christ as the Lamb of God -• Quotes from the Bible about God's love, redemption, and salvation -• Personal testimony or prayer for redemption and forgiveness -• Praise and worship -• Hope in Christ -• Faith in God's goodness -• Redemption through Christ's blood -• Trust in Christ's love -• Eternal life with Christ -• Singing praise to God -• Confession of faith in Christ -• Gratitude for salvation -• Humility before God -• A parting blessing is given to the congregation -• The congregation is reminded of God's invitation to fellowship and declaration of his name -• The Lord's blessings and peace are declared over the congregation -• Praise and glory are declared to God -• The congregation repeats a prayer or hymn multiple times, ending with "Amen" \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, November 9, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, November 9, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index aa1f91c54e63641e81e618f2401e2599bcc6ed8b..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, November 9, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2391 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 1.26] Yet -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 152.00] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 182.00] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 212.00] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 242.00] Thank you. -[242.00 --> 244.00] Thank you. -[244.00 --> 250.00] Thank you. -[250.00 --> 279.98] Thank you. -[280.00 --> 309.98] Thank you. -[310.00 --> 339.98] Thank you. -[340.00 --> 369.98] Thank you. -[370.00 --> 399.98] Thank you. -[400.00 --> 429.98] Thank you. -[430.00 --> 459.98] Thank you. -[460.00 --> 489.98] Thank you. -[489.98 --> 519.96] Thank you. -[519.98 --> 549.96] Thank you. -[549.98 --> 579.96] Thank you. -[579.96 --> 609.94] Thank you. -[609.94 --> 639.92] Thank you. -[639.92 --> 669.90] Thank you. -[669.92 --> 699.88] Thank you. -[699.88 --> 729.86] Thank you. -[729.88 --> 759.86] Thank you. -[759.86 --> 789.84] Thank you. -[789.84 --> 819.82] Thank you. -[819.82 --> 849.80] Thank you. -[849.82 --> 879.80] Thank you. -[879.82 --> 909.80] Thank you. -[909.82 --> 939.80] Thank you. -[939.82 --> 969.80] Thank you. -[969.80 --> 999.78] Thank you. -[999.78 --> 1029.76] Thank you. -[1029.76 --> 1059.74] Thank you. -[1059.74 --> 1089.72] Thank you. -[1089.72 --> 1119.70] Thank you. -[1119.72 --> 1149.70] Thank you. -[1149.72 --> 1179.70] Thank you. -[1179.70 --> 1209.68] Thank you. -[1209.70 --> 1239.68] Thank you. -[1239.70 --> 1269.68] Thank you. -[1269.70 --> 1299.68] Thank you. -[1299.68 --> 1329.66] Thank you. -[1329.66 --> 1359.64] Thank you. -[1359.64 --> 1389.62] Thank you. -[1389.62 --> 1419.60] Thank you. -[1419.60 --> 1449.58] Thank you. -[1449.60 --> 1479.58] Thank you. -[1479.60 --> 1509.58] Thank you. -[1509.60 --> 1539.58] Thank you. -[1539.60 --> 1569.58] Thank you. -[1569.58 --> 1599.56] Thank you. -[1599.58 --> 1629.56] Thank you. -[1629.56 --> 1659.54] Thank you. -[1659.56 --> 1689.54] Thank you. -[1689.56 --> 1719.54] Thank you. -[1719.56 --> 1749.54] Thank you. -[1749.56 --> 1779.54] Thank you. -[1779.56 --> 1809.54] Thank you. -[1809.56 --> 1839.54] Thank you. -[1839.56 --> 1869.54] Thank you. -[1869.56 --> 1899.54] Thank you. -[1899.54 --> 1929.54] Thank you. -[1929.54 --> 1959.52] Thank you. -[1959.52 --> 1989.50] Thank you. -[1989.52 --> 2019.50] Thank you. -[2019.52 --> 2049.50] Thank you. -[2049.52 --> 2079.50] Thank you. -[2079.52 --> 2109.50] Thank you. -[2109.52 --> 2139.50] Thank you. -[2139.52 --> 2169.50] Thank you. -[2169.52 --> 2199.50] Good morning. -[2199.50 --> 2229.48] All right. -[2229.48 --> 2259.46] Thank you. -[2259.46 --> 2289.46] Thank you. -[2289.46 --> 2319.44] Thank you. -[2319.46 --> 2349.46] Good morning. -[2349.46 --> 2379.46] Thank you. -[2379.46 --> 2409.44] Thank you. -[2409.46 --> 2439.44] Thank you. -[2439.46 --> 2469.44] May we remember. -[2469.44 --> 2499.42] God, you're in the -[2499.42 --> 2529.40] and we're in the actions of the -[2529.42 --> 2559.40] and we pray. -[2559.42 --> 2589.40] God, may you, may you, may we're in the -[2589.40 --> 2619.40] and we pray, may we pray, may we pray, -[2619.40 --> 2649.40] yout, -[2649.40 --> 2650.92] Heal her, too. -[2652.38 --> 2654.28] Lord, we thank you for life and for new life. -[2654.36 --> 2658.40] We thank you for little baby Ruth of Haley and Nathan, Lord. -[2658.44 --> 2660.74] We thank you that all is well and that she is healthy. -[2660.80 --> 2663.00] And we thank you for all of those who are pregnant right now, too. -[2664.24 --> 2666.16] Lord, life is such a beautiful thing. -[2666.98 --> 2669.42] Will you continue to be with those moms, those families, -[2669.66 --> 2673.50] as you continue to grow new life here in this place? -[2673.50 --> 2679.44] Forgive us our sins, God, as we forgive those who sin against us. -[2680.52 --> 2682.54] Lord, may we truly forgive others. -[2683.66 --> 2686.58] Place on our hearts right now those that we need to forgive. -[2688.22 --> 2690.20] And God, may we seek forgiveness, too. -[2692.12 --> 2695.32] May you place it on our hearts who we need to seek forgiveness from. -[2697.90 --> 2701.16] Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. -[2701.16 --> 2704.88] Continue to have us seek you first in all things, Lord. -[2704.96 --> 2709.22] Draw us closer to you and keep us free from that which draws us elsewhere. -[2710.98 --> 2714.86] And, Lord, as we open up your word today and learn more about what it means -[2714.86 --> 2718.96] to follow you in this world where things seem so meaningless, -[2719.78 --> 2721.20] we pray that you be with Pastor Chris. -[2722.00 --> 2723.76] May he speak your words. -[2724.54 --> 2727.30] And may you open up our ears and our hearts and our minds -[2727.30 --> 2729.38] to what it is that you are teaching us today. -[2729.38 --> 2735.10] For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever and ever. -[2735.78 --> 2736.08] Amen. -[2736.08 --> 2736.18] Amen. -[2736.18 --> 2761.82] We have been working our way through the book of Ecclesiastes, -[2761.82 --> 2770.54] struggling through what the wisdom of the teacher might be for our lives of faith today. -[2771.22 --> 2774.64] This morning we're going to continue that with Ecclesiastes 7. -[2775.86 --> 2781.20] I'm, in fact, going to read the first 25 verses of chapter 7. -[2781.34 --> 2783.64] So, chapter 7, 1 through 25. -[2784.30 --> 2787.66] And then we'll spend some time reflecting on that together. -[2787.66 --> 2792.20] I encourage you, if you have a Bible either in your hands or on a device, -[2792.32 --> 2794.44] to go ahead, open that up, and then to keep that open, -[2794.54 --> 2796.50] because we'll make regular reference back. -[2796.68 --> 2799.56] If you would like to grab one, there's some Bibles at the back there -[2799.56 --> 2801.16] that you can use for this too. -[2802.68 --> 2804.86] The first time through, we'll see it on the screen. -[2805.02 --> 2805.78] Let's read together. -[2805.78 --> 2813.04] A good name is better than fine perfume, -[2814.04 --> 2818.02] and the day of death better than the day of birth. -[2819.14 --> 2823.90] It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, -[2824.02 --> 2826.80] for death is the destiny of everyone, -[2827.16 --> 2829.52] and the living should take this to heart. -[2829.52 --> 2833.78] Frustration is better than laughter, -[2833.78 --> 2836.42] because a sad face is good for the heart. -[2837.48 --> 2840.54] The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning, -[2840.94 --> 2844.52] but the heart of fools is in the house of pleasure. -[2845.90 --> 2849.20] It is better to heed the rebuke of a wise person -[2849.20 --> 2851.70] than to listen to the song of fools. -[2852.94 --> 2855.90] Like the crackling of thorns under the pot, -[2856.14 --> 2858.22] so is the laughter of fools. -[2858.22 --> 2861.62] This, too, is meaningless. -[2864.08 --> 2867.10] Extortion turns a wise person into a fool, -[2867.36 --> 2869.62] and a bribe corrupts the heart. -[2871.52 --> 2874.04] The end of the matter is better than its beginning, -[2874.34 --> 2876.14] and patience is better than pride. -[2876.56 --> 2879.06] Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, -[2879.22 --> 2882.06] for anger resides in the lap of fools. -[2883.76 --> 2885.06] Do not say, -[2885.06 --> 2888.78] Why were the old days better than these days? -[2889.46 --> 2892.16] For it is not wise to ask such questions. -[2894.34 --> 2897.38] Wisdom, like inheritance, is a good thing, -[2897.52 --> 2899.70] and benefits those who see the sun. -[2900.80 --> 2903.46] Wisdom is a shelter, as money is a shelter, -[2903.74 --> 2905.98] but the advantage of knowledge is this, -[2906.44 --> 2908.92] wisdom preserves those who have it. -[2908.92 --> 2911.90] Consider what God has done. -[2912.44 --> 2915.30] Who can straighten what he has made crooked? -[2916.24 --> 2918.48] When times are good, be happy, -[2918.92 --> 2921.88] but when times are bad, consider this. -[2923.24 --> 2926.98] God has made the one as well as the other. -[2926.98 --> 2931.76] Therefore, no one can discover anything about their future. -[2933.30 --> 2935.76] In this meaningless life of mine, -[2935.84 --> 2937.70] I have seen both of these, -[2938.02 --> 2940.52] the righteous perishing in their righteousness, -[2940.76 --> 2943.16] and the wicked living long in their wickedness. -[2944.36 --> 2946.34] Do not be over-righteous, -[2946.46 --> 2948.16] neither be over-wise. -[2948.36 --> 2949.82] Why destroy yourself? -[2951.02 --> 2952.66] Do not be over-wicked, -[2952.88 --> 2954.12] and do not be a fool. -[2954.12 --> 2956.12] Why die before your time? -[2958.06 --> 2959.76] It is good to grasp the one, -[2959.96 --> 2961.58] and not let go of the other. -[2963.04 --> 2966.84] Whoever fears God will avoid all extremes. -[2968.94 --> 2971.64] Wisdom makes one person more powerful -[2971.64 --> 2973.38] than ten rulers in a city. -[2974.60 --> 2977.16] Indeed, there is no one on earth who is righteous, -[2977.40 --> 2978.78] no one who does what is right, -[2978.82 --> 2979.64] and never sins. -[2980.30 --> 2983.00] Do not pay attention to every word people say, -[2983.00 --> 2985.64] or you may hear your servant cursing you, -[2986.18 --> 2987.62] for you know in your heart -[2987.62 --> 2991.12] that many times you yourself have cursed others. -[2992.98 --> 2995.66] All this I tested by wisdom, -[2995.92 --> 2996.72] and I said, -[2997.56 --> 3000.18] I am determined to be wise, -[3000.94 --> 3003.42] but this was beyond me. -[3004.46 --> 3006.22] Whatever exists is far off, -[3006.28 --> 3007.38] and most profound, -[3007.48 --> 3008.54] who can discover it? -[3008.54 --> 3011.98] So I turned my mind to understand, -[3012.32 --> 3013.00] to investigate, -[3013.26 --> 3014.34] and to search out wisdom, -[3014.58 --> 3015.78] and the scheme of things, -[3016.04 --> 3019.06] and to understand the stupidity of wickedness, -[3019.18 --> 3021.56] and the madness of folly. -[3022.76 --> 3024.04] This is the word of the Lord. -[3024.04 --> 3033.84] Now, if Ecclesiastes has already been a strange book, -[3034.26 --> 3036.18] this gets a little bit more strange. -[3037.66 --> 3039.04] And in fact, it becomes, -[3039.44 --> 3040.96] this chapter especially, -[3042.22 --> 3045.58] you start to see why people have thought -[3045.58 --> 3047.76] that maybe it was written by Solomon, -[3047.96 --> 3051.28] because this reads much more like the book of Proverbs -[3051.28 --> 3053.52] than some of the other parts of Ecclesiastes -[3053.52 --> 3055.36] that we have read. -[3056.36 --> 3059.10] And so I just want to manage your expectations -[3059.10 --> 3059.96] at the outset. -[3060.70 --> 3062.22] Every verse we read in there, -[3062.30 --> 3064.88] I am not going to have time to reflect on. -[3065.40 --> 3067.68] And so I trust there are going to be follow-up questions -[3067.68 --> 3068.40] that you have, -[3068.42 --> 3068.72] or like, -[3068.88 --> 3069.70] what about this? -[3069.80 --> 3070.66] Or what about this? -[3070.92 --> 3073.36] I really encourage you to dig into those, -[3073.46 --> 3074.82] talk to your friends and families, -[3074.94 --> 3075.60] your care groups, -[3076.00 --> 3077.26] wrestle with those things. -[3077.26 --> 3081.36] But I have, I think, -[3081.46 --> 3084.12] discerned for us a through line. -[3084.98 --> 3086.06] To help get at that, -[3086.64 --> 3088.54] I want to draw your attention actually -[3088.54 --> 3091.06] to a song that I discovered, -[3091.72 --> 3093.16] and maybe rediscovered, -[3093.18 --> 3094.96] but it's a really, really old song. -[3095.44 --> 3096.72] So I don't know actually -[3096.72 --> 3098.34] if it was one that I knew beforehand, -[3098.86 --> 3102.82] because it comes long before the time that I was alive. -[3102.88 --> 3104.62] It's a song from the 1970s. -[3104.62 --> 3107.94] And that's really old for most of us. -[3109.84 --> 3111.42] It's a song by Neil Young. -[3112.84 --> 3114.22] And the song is called -[3114.22 --> 3115.60] Don't Let It Bring You Down. -[3117.22 --> 3119.86] And Neil Young opens that song -[3119.86 --> 3121.24] with the line, -[3121.90 --> 3124.36] old man lying by the side of the road -[3124.36 --> 3126.60] with the lorries rolling by. -[3127.84 --> 3129.24] And then he continues later in that verse, -[3129.42 --> 3131.92] dead man lying by the side of the road -[3131.92 --> 3134.74] with the daylight in his eyes. -[3136.14 --> 3138.10] And verse 2 goes on, -[3138.64 --> 3141.58] blind man running through the light of the night -[3141.58 --> 3143.96] with an answer in his hand, -[3145.36 --> 3148.48] white cane lying in the gutter in the lane, -[3149.14 --> 3151.44] if you're walking home alone. -[3153.22 --> 3154.96] Now, Neil Young's lyrics, -[3155.46 --> 3157.06] capture, I think, -[3157.06 --> 3160.94] in a way that only sort of protest music can. -[3160.94 --> 3165.02] The weary compassion of one -[3165.02 --> 3168.62] who sees the world's injustice and decay, -[3169.16 --> 3171.66] but feels powerless before it. -[3172.98 --> 3175.62] In fact, at a live show that he did -[3175.62 --> 3179.56] with Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young, -[3180.00 --> 3183.58] he introduced this song to the crowd by saying, -[3183.94 --> 3186.52] and now for something that will surely depress you. -[3187.06 --> 3188.88] And then they went into this song. -[3190.22 --> 3192.32] But beneath this song, -[3193.08 --> 3195.02] there's a sense, if you know it, -[3195.46 --> 3198.26] a sense of comfort -[3198.26 --> 3203.32] that comes by a shared experience of futility. -[3204.46 --> 3206.38] The idea there is that if we all feel it, -[3206.44 --> 3207.60] at least we're not alone. -[3207.80 --> 3210.50] And the chorus holds this resignation. -[3211.12 --> 3211.84] You see it there. -[3212.18 --> 3212.46] It says, -[3212.80 --> 3214.44] don't let it bring you down. -[3214.60 --> 3216.38] It's only castles burning. -[3216.38 --> 3218.08] And then there's this faint hope. -[3218.54 --> 3220.22] Find someone who's turning, -[3220.60 --> 3221.90] and you will come around. -[3223.60 --> 3224.90] Poets and songwriters, -[3225.06 --> 3226.30] like I've said before, -[3226.66 --> 3230.16] often name the ache of a generation. -[3230.98 --> 3232.06] Poets and songwriters -[3232.06 --> 3234.70] capture something of the ethos -[3234.70 --> 3237.22] of a cultural moment and a perspective. -[3237.22 --> 3242.10] And I think what Young is capturing for us here -[3242.10 --> 3245.24] is this hard message of life -[3245.24 --> 3248.04] that so many people in the world today -[3248.04 --> 3249.80] that feel and know, -[3250.02 --> 3253.78] but refuse to heed in the lived reality -[3253.78 --> 3255.24] of our everyday experience. -[3256.06 --> 3257.38] This is the same message -[3257.38 --> 3259.18] that the teacher in Ecclesiastes -[3259.18 --> 3262.68] is trying to convey over and over and over again. -[3263.36 --> 3264.32] It's one message, -[3264.44 --> 3266.54] but it's perhaps best conveyed in two parts. -[3266.64 --> 3267.78] And so I'll start with the two parts. -[3268.04 --> 3268.30] One, -[3268.92 --> 3270.48] we are not in control. -[3272.24 --> 3273.54] The second part to that is -[3273.54 --> 3275.64] we can't explain everything. -[3279.22 --> 3280.30] People you love -[3280.30 --> 3282.10] get sick and die. -[3283.26 --> 3284.22] We don't know why. -[3286.36 --> 3287.52] You might lose your job, -[3287.52 --> 3290.40] and you have no understanding -[3290.40 --> 3291.62] why that comes. -[3293.82 --> 3295.94] Your marriage might be falling apart, -[3296.80 --> 3298.38] and you cry out, -[3298.64 --> 3300.46] God, why would you let this happen to me? -[3302.48 --> 3304.40] Looking at our own lives, -[3304.50 --> 3305.62] at the stories we hear, -[3305.74 --> 3307.76] looking at the world around us -[3307.76 --> 3309.68] and stories from around the globe, -[3309.98 --> 3311.62] as well as from our own backyard, -[3312.02 --> 3313.60] injustice and oppression -[3313.60 --> 3314.68] are everywhere. -[3314.68 --> 3317.52] And for some of us, -[3317.76 --> 3319.60] we live in this perpetuity -[3319.60 --> 3321.30] of darkness in our minds -[3321.30 --> 3322.72] that becomes oppressive. -[3323.24 --> 3325.10] And for some more of us, -[3325.18 --> 3327.48] there's this longing in our hearts, -[3327.84 --> 3329.24] this hurt or ache -[3329.24 --> 3331.24] in the core of our souls -[3331.24 --> 3333.04] that just doesn't go away. -[3335.52 --> 3336.66] This is the blind man -[3336.66 --> 3338.70] with the answer in his hand, -[3338.96 --> 3341.18] only to find the sirens -[3341.18 --> 3342.86] and the white cane -[3342.86 --> 3344.70] lying in the gutter of the lane. -[3346.14 --> 3347.78] The answer that was clung to -[3347.78 --> 3350.04] is robbed by death -[3350.04 --> 3350.88] in an alley. -[3352.80 --> 3356.12] And this is what we are seeing, -[3356.26 --> 3356.46] right? -[3356.50 --> 3357.94] And in this life -[3357.94 --> 3359.42] where we're not in control -[3359.42 --> 3360.88] and we can't explain everything, -[3361.14 --> 3363.30] we still live with this impulse -[3363.30 --> 3365.38] to master life, -[3365.78 --> 3366.12] right? -[3366.16 --> 3367.60] Through reason or productivity -[3367.60 --> 3369.70] or therapy or technology, -[3369.70 --> 3370.80] and yet, -[3370.92 --> 3372.26] over and over and over again, -[3372.48 --> 3374.12] life resists our control -[3374.12 --> 3375.96] and it defies our comprehension. -[3377.80 --> 3380.56] And in the face of this reality, -[3381.22 --> 3383.96] there's really only two options for us. -[3385.24 --> 3387.88] We can run from the reality of it all. -[3388.00 --> 3389.36] We can numb the pain -[3389.36 --> 3390.64] through different ways. -[3390.74 --> 3392.14] We can ignore the problems. -[3392.50 --> 3393.12] We can party. -[3393.30 --> 3393.94] We can escape. -[3393.94 --> 3395.16] We can laugh as loud -[3395.16 --> 3395.84] and as often -[3395.84 --> 3398.58] as we can possibly figure out to do -[3398.58 --> 3399.64] in order to cover up -[3399.64 --> 3401.48] the silence of our emptiness. -[3402.56 --> 3404.32] We can live in the past -[3404.32 --> 3406.72] or we can live in our imaginations. -[3407.88 --> 3410.76] Sure, we can curate our own escape. -[3412.44 --> 3413.82] We can try to define -[3413.82 --> 3416.12] our own alternate reality. -[3417.20 --> 3418.90] Or, the second option, -[3419.46 --> 3421.10] and what Ecclesiastes 7, -[3421.10 --> 3422.30] I want to suggest, -[3422.60 --> 3423.94] puts on offer for us -[3423.94 --> 3425.04] as a better alternative -[3425.04 --> 3427.58] is the way of wisdom. -[3429.20 --> 3429.68] But, -[3430.16 --> 3432.22] even wisdom here -[3432.22 --> 3434.74] isn't exactly what you expect it to be. -[3436.20 --> 3436.56] Right? -[3436.60 --> 3438.04] The wisdom of the Bible, -[3438.18 --> 3439.38] the wisdom of the teacher -[3439.38 --> 3440.34] will tell you that -[3440.34 --> 3442.24] even being wise -[3442.24 --> 3443.82] won't give you everything. -[3445.40 --> 3445.92] Right? -[3446.00 --> 3447.54] Even wisdom isn't enough. -[3447.66 --> 3448.22] It's better, -[3448.66 --> 3448.96] yes, -[3449.08 --> 3449.44] and amen, -[3449.64 --> 3450.44] but it's not enough. -[3451.46 --> 3452.20] Wisdom, then, -[3452.32 --> 3455.10] begins when we accept that truth, -[3455.18 --> 3456.80] when we lay down the illusion -[3456.80 --> 3458.98] that life is a puzzle to be solved -[3458.98 --> 3460.32] or a system to be mastered, -[3460.52 --> 3461.20] and instead, -[3461.66 --> 3462.98] when we learn to live -[3462.98 --> 3463.84] as creatures -[3463.84 --> 3465.68] before our Creator. -[3468.18 --> 3470.42] Life resists our control -[3470.42 --> 3472.68] and defies our comprehension. -[3474.26 --> 3475.92] And once the illusions of mastery -[3475.92 --> 3476.68] fall away, -[3476.88 --> 3477.86] what's left? -[3478.70 --> 3480.26] What kind of life can you build -[3480.26 --> 3482.00] when you no longer believe -[3482.00 --> 3484.36] and realize that you're in charge? -[3485.96 --> 3487.66] That's where the teacher's taking us. -[3489.20 --> 3491.40] Ecclesiastes 7 opens with -[3491.40 --> 3493.06] the way of wisdom, -[3493.06 --> 3495.78] not as an escape from life's enigmas, -[3495.90 --> 3497.88] but as a way to walk through them. -[3498.88 --> 3500.06] And the teacher, then, -[3500.10 --> 3502.04] is beginning to retrain, -[3502.26 --> 3504.28] to re-educate our minds, -[3504.28 --> 3507.06] to train us how to think rightly -[3507.06 --> 3508.46] about what is real. -[3509.86 --> 3510.28] And again, -[3510.38 --> 3510.68] wisdom, -[3510.90 --> 3512.30] in this view here, -[3512.36 --> 3513.22] isn't sentimental -[3513.22 --> 3514.64] or self-assured. -[3515.14 --> 3517.54] It's actually sobered by death. -[3517.68 --> 3519.46] It's chastened by suffering, -[3519.46 --> 3521.08] and it's rooted in faith -[3521.08 --> 3522.42] that God's providence -[3522.42 --> 3523.80] rules over all things, -[3523.98 --> 3524.88] whether the straight -[3524.88 --> 3525.72] or the crooked. -[3527.02 --> 3528.18] And that's where we'll start. -[3528.18 --> 3528.80] In verse 2, -[3529.36 --> 3530.30] the teacher says -[3530.30 --> 3531.48] that death -[3531.48 --> 3532.98] is the destiny -[3532.98 --> 3534.58] of everyone. -[3535.56 --> 3536.08] The living -[3536.08 --> 3537.28] should take this -[3537.28 --> 3538.34] to heart. -[3539.60 --> 3540.00] Living -[3540.00 --> 3541.86] with the end in view -[3541.86 --> 3542.96] or with the reality -[3542.96 --> 3543.64] of death -[3543.64 --> 3544.58] on our minds -[3544.58 --> 3545.96] changes how we see -[3545.96 --> 3546.44] the present. -[3547.52 --> 3548.40] And from the very beginning -[3548.40 --> 3549.18] of this series, -[3549.18 --> 3550.54] we have been naming this. -[3550.62 --> 3551.58] We've heard the teacher -[3551.58 --> 3554.08] wrestle with life -[3554.08 --> 3555.10] under the sun, -[3555.48 --> 3555.88] asking, -[3556.08 --> 3556.86] what does it all matter? -[3556.86 --> 3557.92] Right? -[3557.94 --> 3558.60] We're all going to die. -[3559.98 --> 3560.88] That isn't cynicism -[3560.88 --> 3561.56] for the teacher. -[3562.12 --> 3562.82] That's clarity. -[3564.48 --> 3565.34] And death has a way -[3565.34 --> 3566.36] of stripping away -[3566.36 --> 3568.28] the illusions of life -[3568.28 --> 3569.26] and teaching us, -[3569.62 --> 3570.60] exposing for us -[3570.60 --> 3572.24] what really matters. -[3574.00 --> 3574.64] And wisdom -[3574.64 --> 3578.30] begins with that awareness. -[3580.18 --> 3581.20] The foolish heart -[3581.20 --> 3582.66] avoids thoughts of death. -[3582.78 --> 3583.72] The wise heart -[3583.72 --> 3584.62] faces them. -[3585.06 --> 3586.06] The wise person -[3586.06 --> 3586.96] goes to the house -[3586.96 --> 3587.72] of despair -[3587.72 --> 3589.26] and to the house -[3589.26 --> 3589.68] of mourning -[3589.68 --> 3590.66] not in despair -[3590.66 --> 3592.30] but to remember. -[3593.42 --> 3593.56] Right? -[3593.60 --> 3594.52] To measure life -[3594.52 --> 3595.86] by its true scale. -[3596.24 --> 3597.28] To live each day -[3597.28 --> 3598.08] as a gift -[3598.08 --> 3599.14] that comes to us -[3599.14 --> 3600.02] from the hand of God. -[3601.72 --> 3602.50] And the teacher -[3602.50 --> 3603.04] goes on -[3603.04 --> 3604.10] building this idea. -[3604.86 --> 3605.24] He says, -[3606.72 --> 3607.22] it is -[3607.22 --> 3608.54] better -[3608.54 --> 3609.68] in verse 5 -[3609.68 --> 3610.30] to heed -[3610.30 --> 3611.02] the rebuke -[3611.02 --> 3612.28] of a wise person -[3612.28 --> 3613.72] than to listen -[3613.72 --> 3614.68] to the song -[3614.68 --> 3615.48] of fools. -[3617.70 --> 3619.26] Proverbs 27 -[3619.26 --> 3620.18] verse 6 -[3620.18 --> 3620.92] says, -[3621.64 --> 3623.00] faithful are the wounds -[3623.00 --> 3624.28] of a friend. -[3626.60 --> 3627.60] Those are the kinds -[3627.60 --> 3628.24] of wounds -[3628.24 --> 3629.66] that heal. -[3631.56 --> 3632.90] A few years ago, -[3633.78 --> 3635.68] Corey Asbury -[3635.68 --> 3636.68] wrote a song -[3636.68 --> 3637.34] called -[3637.34 --> 3638.86] Faithful Wounds. -[3639.36 --> 3640.44] It's one of his -[3640.44 --> 3641.86] lesser known songs -[3641.86 --> 3642.62] and so I'm not surprised -[3642.62 --> 3643.70] if you haven't heard it. -[3644.28 --> 3645.36] But in this song -[3645.36 --> 3646.50] he says, -[3646.94 --> 3647.34] God, -[3647.44 --> 3648.26] I'm wrestling -[3648.26 --> 3649.76] with the wounds -[3649.76 --> 3650.28] again. -[3651.20 --> 3652.16] My impatience, -[3652.28 --> 3652.82] a disease -[3652.82 --> 3653.96] in this cage -[3653.96 --> 3655.02] of mice and men. -[3655.34 --> 3656.34] My head knows -[3656.34 --> 3657.32] to trust you -[3657.32 --> 3658.88] but the heart -[3658.88 --> 3659.38] of me -[3659.38 --> 3660.34] is slain. -[3661.76 --> 3662.52] And he asks, -[3662.62 --> 3662.78] God, -[3663.04 --> 3663.80] these questions -[3663.80 --> 3664.46] won't just, -[3664.94 --> 3665.98] these questions -[3665.98 --> 3666.94] that just won't -[3666.94 --> 3667.80] leave me alone. -[3668.26 --> 3669.10] Will this crushing -[3669.10 --> 3670.12] ever end -[3670.12 --> 3671.58] or is this ache -[3671.58 --> 3672.98] now my home? -[3674.48 --> 3675.72] And then in the chorus -[3675.72 --> 3677.62] he turns -[3677.62 --> 3678.82] to hope. -[3679.60 --> 3680.56] But a realistic -[3680.56 --> 3681.46] hope. -[3681.60 --> 3681.88] He says, -[3682.28 --> 3683.18] faithful are the wounds -[3683.18 --> 3683.86] of a friend. -[3684.46 --> 3685.78] Faithful are the dealings -[3685.78 --> 3686.80] of your hand. -[3687.20 --> 3687.76] The troubles -[3687.76 --> 3688.76] and the trials -[3688.76 --> 3689.88] like the gold -[3689.88 --> 3690.98] refining fire. -[3691.66 --> 3692.20] Faithful -[3692.20 --> 3693.40] are the wounds -[3693.40 --> 3694.66] of a friend. -[3696.78 --> 3698.06] That's the voice -[3698.06 --> 3699.58] of Ecclesiastes 7 -[3699.58 --> 3701.52] and Proverbs 27. -[3702.92 --> 3703.52] The teacher -[3703.52 --> 3704.58] knows that -[3704.58 --> 3705.40] the rebuke -[3705.40 --> 3706.38] of the wise -[3706.38 --> 3707.34] and the discipline -[3707.34 --> 3708.46] of God -[3708.46 --> 3709.42] are painful -[3709.42 --> 3711.10] but they are -[3711.10 --> 3712.26] purposeful. -[3714.00 --> 3715.12] And this may be -[3715.12 --> 3715.78] one of the hardest -[3715.78 --> 3716.96] lessons that the teacher -[3716.96 --> 3717.92] has for us -[3717.92 --> 3718.84] in the book -[3718.84 --> 3719.68] of Ecclesiastes. -[3720.50 --> 3721.44] This may be -[3721.44 --> 3722.00] one of the most -[3722.00 --> 3722.86] difficult truths -[3722.86 --> 3723.46] of God -[3723.46 --> 3724.70] to wrap our minds -[3724.70 --> 3725.16] around -[3725.16 --> 3726.50] because in the end -[3726.50 --> 3727.56] we actually can't. -[3727.72 --> 3728.24] Not fully. -[3730.52 --> 3731.08] C.S. Lewis -[3731.08 --> 3732.68] once called -[3732.68 --> 3733.86] this truth -[3733.86 --> 3735.82] a severe -[3735.82 --> 3736.70] mercy. -[3738.72 --> 3739.76] After the death -[3739.76 --> 3740.66] of his wife -[3740.66 --> 3742.40] C.S. Lewis -[3742.40 --> 3743.76] used that phrase -[3743.76 --> 3745.06] severe mercy -[3745.06 --> 3746.42] to describe -[3746.42 --> 3747.84] for a friend -[3747.84 --> 3748.86] in a letter -[3748.86 --> 3750.32] how God -[3750.32 --> 3750.96] can use -[3750.96 --> 3752.52] even the sharpest -[3752.52 --> 3753.06] pain -[3753.06 --> 3755.00] as an instrument -[3755.00 --> 3755.72] of grace. -[3756.50 --> 3758.06] A severe mercy -[3758.06 --> 3758.92] describes how -[3758.92 --> 3759.60] God's love -[3759.60 --> 3760.62] sometimes takes -[3760.62 --> 3761.52] the form -[3761.52 --> 3763.08] of painful providence -[3763.08 --> 3764.20] that nonetheless -[3764.20 --> 3765.60] leads to greater -[3765.60 --> 3766.84] good and deeper -[3766.84 --> 3767.66] faith. -[3769.28 --> 3770.26] The reformer -[3770.26 --> 3771.06] John Calvin -[3771.06 --> 3772.96] in the 16th century -[3772.96 --> 3774.06] called these -[3774.06 --> 3775.26] experiences -[3775.26 --> 3776.26] fatherly -[3776.26 --> 3777.18] chastisements. -[3778.18 --> 3778.74] He wrote -[3778.74 --> 3780.24] in his book -[3780.24 --> 3781.14] Institutes of the -[3781.14 --> 3781.72] Christian Religion -[3781.72 --> 3782.14] he said -[3782.14 --> 3783.08] the chastening -[3783.08 --> 3783.74] of God -[3783.74 --> 3784.34] carries -[3784.34 --> 3785.08] his blessing -[3785.08 --> 3785.74] with it -[3785.74 --> 3786.64] and is -[3786.64 --> 3787.56] an evidence -[3787.56 --> 3788.84] of love. -[3790.06 --> 3790.62] He goes on -[3790.62 --> 3790.88] he says -[3790.88 --> 3791.44] in the very -[3791.44 --> 3791.88] bitterness -[3791.88 --> 3792.94] of tribulation -[3792.94 --> 3793.64] we ought to -[3793.64 --> 3794.14] recognize -[3794.14 --> 3794.86] the kindness -[3794.86 --> 3796.00] and mercy -[3796.00 --> 3797.26] of our father -[3797.26 --> 3798.72] for he -[3798.72 --> 3799.82] afflicts -[3799.82 --> 3800.80] not that he -[3800.80 --> 3801.58] may destroy -[3801.58 --> 3803.52] but that he -[3803.52 --> 3804.12] may deliver -[3804.12 --> 3804.62] us. -[3807.50 --> 3808.00] And in fact -[3808.00 --> 3809.24] about a thousand -[3809.24 --> 3810.34] years before -[3810.34 --> 3811.08] Calvin said -[3811.08 --> 3811.40] that -[3811.40 --> 3812.40] St. Augustine -[3812.40 --> 3813.36] said something -[3813.36 --> 3814.04] very similar -[3814.04 --> 3815.58] he said -[3815.58 --> 3816.20] the suffering -[3816.20 --> 3817.08] at which you -[3817.08 --> 3817.80] cry is -[3817.80 --> 3818.40] medicine -[3818.40 --> 3819.72] not punishment -[3819.72 --> 3821.54] chastisement -[3821.54 --> 3823.30] not condemnation -[3823.30 --> 3824.98] do not -[3824.98 --> 3825.64] drive away -[3825.64 --> 3826.32] the rod -[3826.32 --> 3827.14] if you would -[3827.14 --> 3827.56] not be -[3827.56 --> 3829.38] driven away -[3829.38 --> 3830.24] from the -[3830.24 --> 3830.74] inheritance. -[3834.00 --> 3834.86] Wisdom -[3834.86 --> 3836.62] accepts -[3836.62 --> 3838.08] that even -[3838.08 --> 3838.86] painful -[3838.86 --> 3839.68] rebuke -[3839.68 --> 3840.78] is a form -[3840.78 --> 3841.64] of divine -[3841.64 --> 3842.78] friendship -[3842.78 --> 3844.48] divine love. -[3845.54 --> 3846.30] The fool -[3846.30 --> 3846.96] resents -[3846.96 --> 3847.64] correction -[3847.64 --> 3848.98] the wise -[3848.98 --> 3850.14] receives it -[3850.14 --> 3851.54] as grace. -[3859.22 --> 3860.12] You know -[3860.12 --> 3860.66] the moment -[3860.66 --> 3862.50] when the -[3862.50 --> 3862.76] bottom -[3862.76 --> 3863.32] falls out -[3863.32 --> 3863.76] of something -[3863.76 --> 3864.48] that you -[3864.48 --> 3864.96] thought was -[3864.96 --> 3865.36] secure -[3865.36 --> 3867.60] maybe you -[3867.60 --> 3867.80] get a -[3867.80 --> 3868.28] diagnosis -[3868.28 --> 3870.78] maybe you -[3870.78 --> 3871.86] lose -[3871.86 --> 3874.02] your tenure -[3874.02 --> 3874.58] track -[3874.58 --> 3875.32] position -[3875.32 --> 3876.40] maybe it's -[3876.40 --> 3876.96] a friendship -[3876.96 --> 3877.70] that suddenly -[3877.70 --> 3878.52] changes -[3878.52 --> 3879.06] or a -[3879.06 --> 3879.56] relationship -[3879.56 --> 3881.08] that ends -[3881.08 --> 3881.46] what you -[3881.46 --> 3882.12] thought was -[3882.12 --> 3882.58] sure -[3882.58 --> 3883.24] and -[3883.24 --> 3884.38] insured -[3884.38 --> 3884.94] suddenly -[3884.94 --> 3885.94] is gone -[3885.94 --> 3887.98] and so you -[3887.98 --> 3888.30] pray -[3888.30 --> 3889.02] because you're -[3889.02 --> 3889.22] a good -[3889.22 --> 3889.58] Christian -[3889.58 --> 3890.28] and you know -[3890.28 --> 3890.60] that that's -[3890.60 --> 3890.82] what you're -[3890.82 --> 3891.26] supposed to -[3891.26 --> 3891.46] do -[3891.46 --> 3891.98] and you -[3891.98 --> 3892.48] search for -[3892.48 --> 3892.82] answers -[3892.82 --> 3893.38] you search -[3893.38 --> 3893.96] the scriptures -[3893.96 --> 3894.86] day in -[3894.86 --> 3895.42] and day out -[3895.42 --> 3896.62] and all -[3896.62 --> 3897.40] you hear -[3897.40 --> 3898.80] is silence. -[3901.02 --> 3902.10] We start -[3902.10 --> 3902.64] to wonder -[3902.64 --> 3903.58] if God's -[3903.58 --> 3904.10] love -[3904.10 --> 3905.88] and God's -[3905.88 --> 3906.40] discipline -[3906.40 --> 3908.14] can really -[3908.14 --> 3908.86] occupy the -[3908.86 --> 3909.50] same space. -[3911.72 --> 3912.72] We start -[3912.72 --> 3913.08] to wonder -[3913.08 --> 3913.62] how can -[3913.62 --> 3914.06] this -[3914.06 --> 3914.86] impossible -[3914.86 --> 3916.18] reality -[3916.18 --> 3917.58] have a -[3917.58 --> 3918.06] purpose? -[3918.06 --> 3921.20] that's -[3921.20 --> 3921.36] the -[3921.36 --> 3921.78] tension -[3921.78 --> 3923.78] of God's -[3923.78 --> 3924.04] severe -[3924.04 --> 3924.58] mercies. -[3925.28 --> 3925.56] That's -[3925.56 --> 3926.02] the tension -[3926.02 --> 3926.38] that the -[3926.38 --> 3926.90] teacher is -[3926.90 --> 3927.46] inviting us -[3927.46 --> 3928.18] to live -[3928.18 --> 3928.36] in. -[3928.42 --> 3928.78] He says -[3928.78 --> 3929.66] that sometimes -[3929.66 --> 3930.78] what feels -[3930.78 --> 3931.72] like absence -[3931.72 --> 3933.00] is actually -[3933.00 --> 3933.92] refinement. -[3934.16 --> 3934.80] What feels -[3934.80 --> 3935.78] like rejection -[3935.78 --> 3937.08] is the hand -[3937.08 --> 3937.74] of a faithful -[3937.74 --> 3938.36] friend. -[3938.48 --> 3939.14] What feels -[3939.14 --> 3939.94] like judgment -[3939.94 --> 3941.10] is actually -[3941.10 --> 3941.86] drawing you -[3941.86 --> 3942.86] closer to -[3942.86 --> 3943.18] the heart -[3943.18 --> 3943.62] of God. -[3945.08 --> 3945.34] And so -[3945.34 --> 3946.08] maybe what -[3946.08 --> 3946.54] we're learning -[3946.54 --> 3947.46] here is that -[3947.46 --> 3947.94] part of -[3947.94 --> 3948.72] wisdom is -[3948.72 --> 3949.34] to pray -[3949.34 --> 3950.28] not only -[3950.28 --> 3951.26] Lord take -[3951.26 --> 3951.82] this away -[3951.82 --> 3952.40] from me -[3952.40 --> 3953.14] but also -[3953.14 --> 3953.74] learning how -[3953.74 --> 3954.16] to pray -[3954.16 --> 3955.62] Lord don't -[3955.62 --> 3956.36] waste this -[3956.36 --> 3956.84] pain. -[3958.66 --> 3959.72] Don't waste -[3959.72 --> 3960.74] this heartbreak. -[3961.42 --> 3962.14] Don't waste -[3962.14 --> 3963.58] this brokenness. -[3965.22 --> 3966.12] Faith doesn't -[3966.12 --> 3966.84] always mean -[3966.84 --> 3967.68] understanding -[3967.68 --> 3968.44] the wound -[3968.44 --> 3971.34] but it does -[3971.34 --> 3972.74] mean trusting -[3972.74 --> 3973.44] that even -[3973.44 --> 3974.24] this wound -[3974.24 --> 3976.06] is held -[3976.06 --> 3977.40] in love -[3977.40 --> 3979.00] from God. -[3981.56 --> 3982.26] I said -[3982.26 --> 3982.56] this was -[3982.56 --> 3982.82] hard. -[3987.54 --> 3988.12] And I -[3988.12 --> 3988.64] know the -[3988.64 --> 3989.06] wounds -[3989.06 --> 3990.34] and the -[3990.34 --> 3990.84] wounding -[3990.84 --> 3992.12] that some -[3992.12 --> 3992.34] of you -[3992.34 --> 3992.70] carry. -[3996.60 --> 3997.18] And I -[3997.18 --> 3997.62] know that I -[3997.62 --> 3998.08] don't know -[3998.08 --> 3998.60] the wounds -[3998.60 --> 3999.02] and the -[3999.02 --> 3999.52] woundings -[3999.52 --> 4000.84] that some -[4000.84 --> 4001.08] of you -[4001.08 --> 4001.42] have held -[4001.42 --> 4001.88] on to -[4001.88 --> 4003.02] quietly -[4003.02 --> 4003.52] and by -[4003.52 --> 4003.98] yourself. -[4003.98 --> 4004.04] love. -[4005.92 --> 4006.68] This is -[4006.68 --> 4007.04] hard. -[4009.72 --> 4010.46] But with -[4010.46 --> 4010.78] as much -[4010.78 --> 4011.58] love as I -[4011.58 --> 4012.10] can muster -[4012.10 --> 4012.70] from a -[4012.70 --> 4013.64] platform in -[4013.64 --> 4013.98] front of -[4013.98 --> 4014.20] you, -[4015.32 --> 4016.56] can I -[4016.56 --> 4018.42] say that -[4018.42 --> 4018.74] it would be -[4018.74 --> 4019.16] harder -[4019.16 --> 4020.58] without God? -[4021.92 --> 4022.86] It would be -[4022.86 --> 4024.00] harder without -[4024.00 --> 4025.00] this truth -[4025.00 --> 4025.88] and purpose. -[4026.64 --> 4026.86] Right? -[4026.86 --> 4027.16] it would be -[4027.16 --> 4027.94] harder if -[4027.94 --> 4029.04] God actually -[4029.04 --> 4029.86] had no -[4029.86 --> 4030.48] purpose or -[4030.48 --> 4031.12] no control -[4031.12 --> 4032.32] or that it -[4032.32 --> 4033.04] didn't make -[4033.04 --> 4033.64] sense in -[4033.64 --> 4034.24] his great -[4034.24 --> 4034.60] plan. -[4034.84 --> 4035.80] Like that's -[4035.80 --> 4036.74] truly -[4036.74 --> 4038.18] existentially -[4038.18 --> 4039.18] shattering. -[4039.18 --> 4039.30] suffering. -[4046.16 --> 4046.70] But in -[4046.70 --> 4047.38] this moment, -[4048.22 --> 4049.38] what is -[4049.38 --> 4049.80] God calling -[4049.80 --> 4050.04] you to -[4050.04 --> 4050.26] pray? -[4052.14 --> 4052.66] How is -[4052.66 --> 4053.02] God calling -[4053.02 --> 4053.26] you to -[4053.26 --> 4053.70] see him, -[4054.48 --> 4055.20] to trust -[4055.20 --> 4055.54] in him? -[4058.02 --> 4058.60] And there's -[4058.60 --> 4058.96] a temptation -[4058.96 --> 4059.56] here and the -[4059.56 --> 4060.16] teacher warns -[4060.16 --> 4060.42] us. -[4061.34 --> 4062.04] He says in -[4062.04 --> 4062.54] verse 10, -[4063.58 --> 4064.14] do not -[4064.14 --> 4064.54] say, -[4065.14 --> 4065.50] why were -[4065.50 --> 4065.96] the old -[4065.96 --> 4066.56] days better -[4066.56 --> 4067.06] than these? -[4067.84 --> 4068.14] For it's -[4068.14 --> 4068.82] not wise to -[4068.82 --> 4069.16] ask so -[4069.16 --> 4070.28] such questions. -[4071.14 --> 4071.34] Right? -[4071.38 --> 4072.00] In the depths -[4072.00 --> 4072.26] of our -[4072.26 --> 4072.88] brokenness and -[4072.88 --> 4073.24] pain, -[4073.42 --> 4073.92] it's really -[4073.92 --> 4074.38] easy to -[4074.38 --> 4074.84] look back -[4074.84 --> 4075.50] and remember -[4075.50 --> 4075.94] a time -[4075.94 --> 4076.74] before this. -[4077.52 --> 4077.68] Say, -[4077.76 --> 4077.88] oh, -[4077.92 --> 4078.26] if we could -[4078.26 --> 4078.54] just go -[4078.54 --> 4079.00] back there. -[4080.58 --> 4080.72] Right? -[4080.76 --> 4081.22] And here, -[4081.40 --> 4081.94] I think the -[4081.94 --> 4082.50] teacher is -[4082.50 --> 4083.30] warning us -[4083.30 --> 4083.92] against -[4083.92 --> 4085.38] nostalgia -[4085.38 --> 4086.98] as spiritual -[4086.98 --> 4087.82] escapism. -[4089.22 --> 4089.72] Right? -[4089.82 --> 4090.26] Because what -[4090.26 --> 4090.70] we're seeing -[4090.70 --> 4091.00] is that -[4091.00 --> 4092.32] nostalgia is -[4092.32 --> 4093.26] often a -[4093.26 --> 4094.20] longing for -[4094.20 --> 4094.92] a past -[4094.92 --> 4095.50] that never -[4095.50 --> 4096.44] really existed. -[4097.72 --> 4098.46] And in -[4098.46 --> 4098.80] longing for a -[4098.80 --> 4099.64] past that -[4099.64 --> 4100.14] never really -[4100.14 --> 4100.64] existed, -[4101.16 --> 4101.44] what is -[4101.44 --> 4101.96] actually, -[4102.22 --> 4102.78] and underneath -[4102.78 --> 4103.28] it all, -[4103.36 --> 4103.64] I want to -[4103.64 --> 4104.18] suggest to -[4104.18 --> 4104.44] you, -[4104.72 --> 4105.64] is a sort -[4105.64 --> 4106.90] of veiled -[4106.90 --> 4107.64] or hidden -[4107.64 --> 4109.34] protest against -[4109.34 --> 4110.32] God's providence -[4110.32 --> 4111.18] in the present -[4111.18 --> 4113.22] for right now. -[4114.22 --> 4114.38] Right? -[4114.40 --> 4114.70] Here's the -[4114.70 --> 4114.94] danger. -[4115.06 --> 4115.34] When we -[4115.34 --> 4116.24] idealize the -[4116.24 --> 4116.68] good old -[4116.68 --> 4117.10] days, -[4117.28 --> 4118.32] we are quietly -[4118.32 --> 4119.34] accusing God -[4119.34 --> 4120.22] of mishandling -[4120.22 --> 4120.92] time in the -[4120.92 --> 4121.32] present. -[4121.32 --> 4121.40] moment. -[4123.48 --> 4123.74] And the -[4123.74 --> 4124.60] teacher knows -[4124.60 --> 4125.06] the human -[4125.06 --> 4125.50] heart's -[4125.50 --> 4125.96] temptation -[4125.96 --> 4126.82] for nostalgia -[4126.82 --> 4127.86] to believe -[4127.86 --> 4128.18] that there -[4128.18 --> 4128.86] once was -[4128.86 --> 4129.38] a golden -[4129.38 --> 4129.96] age when -[4129.96 --> 4130.46] life was -[4130.46 --> 4131.34] simpler and -[4131.34 --> 4132.02] purer and -[4132.02 --> 4132.34] better, -[4132.58 --> 4133.32] and in this -[4133.32 --> 4133.92] nostalgia, -[4134.30 --> 4134.74] we can be -[4134.74 --> 4135.36] shaping a -[4135.36 --> 4135.98] new form of -[4135.98 --> 4136.66] escapism, -[4136.94 --> 4137.38] a way of -[4137.38 --> 4138.14] avoiding the -[4138.14 --> 4138.96] present moment -[4138.96 --> 4139.46] that God -[4139.46 --> 4139.98] has actually -[4139.98 --> 4140.66] put us in. -[4142.62 --> 4143.14] Wisdom, -[4143.42 --> 4143.76] then, -[4144.84 --> 4146.02] remembers that -[4146.02 --> 4146.82] the past -[4146.82 --> 4148.08] was not as -[4148.08 --> 4148.82] pure as -[4148.82 --> 4150.04] we imagine -[4150.04 --> 4150.88] it to have -[4150.88 --> 4151.10] been. -[4152.40 --> 4153.26] Every generation -[4153.26 --> 4154.82] has its share -[4154.82 --> 4155.96] of sin and -[4155.96 --> 4156.66] sorrow, but -[4156.66 --> 4158.78] nostalgia turns -[4158.78 --> 4160.28] selective memory -[4160.28 --> 4161.66] into an idol. -[4162.96 --> 4163.72] And it tells us -[4163.72 --> 4164.52] that what's broken -[4164.52 --> 4165.20] in the world -[4165.20 --> 4166.08] could be fixed -[4166.08 --> 4167.20] if we only -[4167.20 --> 4167.92] turned back -[4167.92 --> 4168.52] the clock. -[4170.14 --> 4171.38] And sometimes -[4171.38 --> 4172.76] that nostalgia -[4172.76 --> 4174.08] can become -[4174.08 --> 4174.76] dangerous. -[4176.32 --> 4177.22] When people -[4177.22 --> 4178.10] long to return -[4178.10 --> 4178.72] to a way -[4178.72 --> 4179.50] things used -[4179.50 --> 4180.06] to be, -[4180.42 --> 4181.16] it carries -[4181.16 --> 4181.84] with it -[4181.84 --> 4182.84] undertones -[4182.84 --> 4183.76] of exclusion, -[4184.82 --> 4185.60] a desire -[4185.60 --> 4186.86] for how -[4186.86 --> 4187.42] the world -[4187.42 --> 4188.48] once was -[4188.48 --> 4189.56] for me. -[4191.30 --> 4191.86] Everyone -[4191.86 --> 4192.26] else be -[4192.26 --> 4192.52] damned. -[4194.74 --> 4195.50] I'm saying -[4195.50 --> 4195.80] that as -[4195.80 --> 4196.70] bluntly as -[4196.70 --> 4197.12] I can. -[4198.14 --> 4198.64] We see -[4198.64 --> 4199.10] this in -[4199.10 --> 4199.84] political -[4199.84 --> 4200.48] movements -[4200.48 --> 4200.86] and in -[4200.86 --> 4201.26] cultural -[4201.26 --> 4201.80] rhetoric -[4201.80 --> 4202.88] that dresses -[4202.88 --> 4203.66] up fear -[4203.66 --> 4204.64] as a virtue -[4204.64 --> 4205.46] that talks -[4205.46 --> 4206.02] about making -[4206.02 --> 4206.90] things great -[4206.90 --> 4207.26] again, -[4207.26 --> 4207.86] but really -[4207.86 --> 4208.42] meaning -[4208.42 --> 4209.14] making them -[4209.14 --> 4209.70] mine -[4209.70 --> 4210.14] again. -[4211.34 --> 4212.18] That's not -[4212.18 --> 4212.56] wisdom. -[4213.08 --> 4213.42] That's -[4213.42 --> 4214.18] self-deception. -[4215.42 --> 4215.80] And a -[4215.80 --> 4216.32] theological -[4216.32 --> 4217.12] critique of -[4217.12 --> 4217.58] nostalgia, -[4217.74 --> 4218.04] which the -[4218.04 --> 4218.46] teacher is -[4218.46 --> 4218.96] inviting us -[4218.96 --> 4219.10] to, -[4219.24 --> 4220.26] can expose -[4220.26 --> 4221.56] nostalgia as -[4221.56 --> 4222.16] hidden forms -[4222.16 --> 4222.80] of racism, -[4223.80 --> 4224.60] as sexism, -[4225.38 --> 4226.10] as xenophobia, -[4227.04 --> 4227.70] as fear of the -[4227.70 --> 4228.06] foreigner, -[4228.40 --> 4229.66] inherent in -[4229.66 --> 4230.44] these longings -[4230.44 --> 4231.28] for the past -[4231.28 --> 4232.22] because I want -[4232.22 --> 4232.64] what was -[4232.64 --> 4233.16] good for -[4233.16 --> 4233.72] me. -[4235.76 --> 4236.80] The teacher -[4236.80 --> 4237.76] insists -[4237.76 --> 4239.48] that wisdom -[4239.48 --> 4241.56] looks forward -[4241.56 --> 4242.76] in humble -[4242.76 --> 4243.80] trust, -[4244.58 --> 4245.38] not backwards -[4245.38 --> 4245.90] in fear. -[4247.72 --> 4248.30] God is not -[4248.30 --> 4250.32] calling us -[4250.32 --> 4250.98] to recover -[4250.98 --> 4251.94] a mythical -[4251.94 --> 4252.72] past, -[4253.38 --> 4254.24] but to -[4254.24 --> 4255.14] receive -[4255.14 --> 4256.66] his presence -[4256.66 --> 4257.44] in the -[4257.44 --> 4257.82] present. -[4259.38 --> 4260.24] The wisdom -[4260.24 --> 4261.24] of contentment -[4261.24 --> 4262.02] is learning -[4262.02 --> 4262.52] to meet -[4262.52 --> 4263.38] God here -[4263.38 --> 4264.30] and now, -[4264.44 --> 4264.98] in this -[4264.98 --> 4265.28] moment, -[4265.40 --> 4265.78] in this -[4265.78 --> 4266.10] time, -[4266.28 --> 4266.74] in this -[4266.74 --> 4267.04] culture, -[4267.14 --> 4267.56] with all -[4267.56 --> 4267.82] of its -[4267.82 --> 4268.40] complexities -[4268.40 --> 4269.66] and nuances, -[4270.10 --> 4271.00] believing that -[4271.00 --> 4271.52] it was the -[4271.52 --> 4272.26] same God -[4272.26 --> 4272.66] who was -[4272.66 --> 4273.60] faithful then, -[4273.72 --> 4274.52] who will be -[4274.52 --> 4275.48] faithful now, -[4275.52 --> 4276.22] and who will -[4276.22 --> 4276.86] be faithful -[4276.86 --> 4278.02] in the future. -[4279.78 --> 4280.10] And so -[4280.10 --> 4280.42] really, -[4280.54 --> 4280.94] the teacher -[4280.94 --> 4281.52] is calling -[4281.52 --> 4282.14] us to a -[4282.14 --> 4283.04] different kind -[4283.04 --> 4284.12] of realism. -[4285.40 --> 4286.38] In verse 13 -[4286.38 --> 4287.34] and 14, -[4287.46 --> 4287.94] he says, -[4288.64 --> 4289.22] read with me, -[4289.28 --> 4289.90] consider what -[4289.90 --> 4290.66] God has done. -[4291.22 --> 4291.72] Who can -[4291.72 --> 4292.48] straighten what -[4292.48 --> 4293.06] he has made -[4293.06 --> 4293.40] crooked? -[4294.06 --> 4294.64] When times -[4294.64 --> 4294.98] are good, -[4295.06 --> 4295.44] be happy, -[4295.54 --> 4296.16] but when times -[4296.16 --> 4296.64] are bad, -[4296.76 --> 4297.44] consider this, -[4297.70 --> 4298.50] God has made -[4298.50 --> 4299.30] the one as -[4299.30 --> 4299.96] well as -[4299.96 --> 4300.78] the other. -[4302.36 --> 4302.56] And so -[4302.56 --> 4303.62] to consider -[4303.62 --> 4304.92] is to view -[4304.92 --> 4305.80] life through -[4305.80 --> 4306.44] the lens -[4306.44 --> 4307.06] of God's -[4307.06 --> 4307.76] providence, -[4307.92 --> 4308.82] that God -[4308.82 --> 4309.70] is still -[4309.70 --> 4310.56] yet active -[4310.56 --> 4311.52] in this -[4311.52 --> 4311.92] world. -[4311.92 --> 4312.60] wisdom -[4312.60 --> 4313.18] accepts -[4313.18 --> 4314.00] both past -[4314.00 --> 4314.72] and present, -[4314.86 --> 4315.44] both joy -[4315.44 --> 4316.10] and sorrow -[4316.10 --> 4316.92] as coming -[4316.92 --> 4317.48] from the -[4317.48 --> 4318.60] same hand -[4318.60 --> 4319.32] of the -[4319.32 --> 4319.64] sovereign -[4319.64 --> 4320.00] Lord. -[4321.04 --> 4322.14] The fool -[4322.14 --> 4323.02] looks back -[4323.02 --> 4323.98] and complains. -[4325.14 --> 4326.26] The wise -[4326.26 --> 4327.12] look up -[4327.12 --> 4328.44] and trust. -[4330.46 --> 4330.76] And so -[4330.76 --> 4331.20] in times -[4331.20 --> 4331.84] of joy, -[4332.14 --> 4332.56] rejoice. -[4333.84 --> 4334.64] And in times -[4334.64 --> 4335.22] of hardship, -[4335.84 --> 4336.24] reflect. -[4337.20 --> 4338.30] For both -[4338.30 --> 4339.38] are gifts -[4339.38 --> 4339.98] from the -[4339.98 --> 4341.10] same God. -[4341.92 --> 4343.00] the -[4343.00 --> 4343.46] nostalgic -[4343.46 --> 4344.06] heart -[4344.06 --> 4344.94] resists -[4344.94 --> 4345.70] that -[4345.70 --> 4346.66] truth. -[4347.74 --> 4348.78] The wise -[4348.78 --> 4349.20] heart -[4349.20 --> 4350.26] rests in -[4350.26 --> 4350.42] it. -[4352.36 --> 4353.14] Now this -[4353.14 --> 4353.52] present -[4353.52 --> 4354.00] moment -[4354.00 --> 4355.48] may be -[4355.48 --> 4356.46] a severe -[4356.46 --> 4357.66] mercy. -[4358.66 --> 4359.68] The kindness -[4359.68 --> 4360.18] of God -[4360.18 --> 4360.66] hidden in -[4360.66 --> 4360.98] the crooked -[4360.98 --> 4361.94] lines of -[4361.94 --> 4362.46] our lives, -[4362.90 --> 4364.32] but it is -[4364.32 --> 4364.90] a mercy -[4364.90 --> 4365.94] nonetheless. -[4365.94 --> 4366.94] God -[4366.94 --> 4367.94] bless. -[4367.94 --> 4368.16] And so -[4368.16 --> 4368.56] to that -[4368.56 --> 4368.86] end, -[4368.92 --> 4369.18] what I -[4369.18 --> 4369.60] suggest -[4369.60 --> 4370.06] to you -[4370.06 --> 4370.44] is that -[4370.44 --> 4370.66] as -[4370.66 --> 4371.20] Christians -[4371.20 --> 4372.10] in particular, -[4372.68 --> 4373.08] we are -[4373.08 --> 4374.12] called to -[4374.12 --> 4375.46] merciful -[4375.46 --> 4376.52] realism -[4376.52 --> 4377.16] or to -[4377.16 --> 4377.90] a hopeful -[4377.90 --> 4378.92] realism, -[4379.10 --> 4379.44] a view -[4379.44 --> 4379.84] of the -[4379.84 --> 4380.16] world -[4380.16 --> 4381.16] that sees -[4381.16 --> 4382.30] what is -[4382.30 --> 4382.96] in all -[4382.96 --> 4383.22] of its -[4383.22 --> 4383.56] darkness -[4383.56 --> 4384.26] and trouble -[4384.26 --> 4385.00] and justices -[4385.00 --> 4386.46] and brokenness -[4386.46 --> 4387.48] and all -[4387.48 --> 4387.76] of its -[4387.76 --> 4388.22] good -[4388.22 --> 4389.72] and celebrations -[4389.72 --> 4390.66] and reasons -[4390.66 --> 4391.40] to rejoice -[4391.40 --> 4392.24] and in -[4392.24 --> 4393.18] all of -[4393.18 --> 4393.42] it -[4393.42 --> 4394.08] trusts -[4394.08 --> 4394.68] in -[4394.68 --> 4395.30] God, -[4395.48 --> 4395.92] believes -[4395.92 --> 4396.26] in -[4396.26 --> 4396.66] his -[4396.66 --> 4397.40] purposes, -[4397.70 --> 4398.00] rests -[4398.00 --> 4398.76] in his -[4398.76 --> 4399.50] sovereign -[4399.50 --> 4400.04] plan -[4400.04 --> 4400.32] and -[4400.32 --> 4401.16] providential -[4401.16 --> 4401.94] action -[4401.94 --> 4402.86] in the -[4402.86 --> 4403.18] world. -[4404.64 --> 4405.42] This is -[4405.42 --> 4405.86] our call. -[4408.30 --> 4409.18] After all -[4409.18 --> 4409.54] of his -[4409.54 --> 4410.42] reflection, -[4411.94 --> 4412.36] the teacher -[4412.36 --> 4413.16] turns to his -[4413.16 --> 4414.18] own experience -[4414.18 --> 4414.80] then and he -[4414.80 --> 4415.58] confesses, -[4416.00 --> 4416.76] all this I -[4416.76 --> 4417.44] tested by -[4417.44 --> 4418.12] wisdom and -[4418.12 --> 4418.30] said, -[4418.44 --> 4418.80] I am -[4418.80 --> 4419.22] determined -[4419.22 --> 4419.60] to be -[4419.60 --> 4420.06] wise -[4420.06 --> 4422.14] but, -[4422.50 --> 4423.26] verse 23, -[4424.00 --> 4424.84] this was -[4424.84 --> 4426.06] beyond me. -[4428.64 --> 4429.32] So here's -[4429.32 --> 4429.70] the crux -[4429.70 --> 4429.94] of the -[4429.94 --> 4430.10] matter. -[4430.20 --> 4430.38] Here's -[4430.38 --> 4431.14] the paradox -[4431.14 --> 4432.52] of wisdom. -[4433.00 --> 4433.64] The closer -[4433.64 --> 4434.42] you come -[4434.42 --> 4435.32] to understanding -[4435.32 --> 4435.88] life, -[4435.94 --> 4436.26] the more -[4436.26 --> 4436.60] mysterious -[4436.60 --> 4437.18] it becomes. -[4438.44 --> 4438.92] The pursuit -[4438.92 --> 4439.44] of wisdom -[4439.44 --> 4440.46] doesn't expose -[4440.46 --> 4441.28] our own -[4441.28 --> 4442.12] strength, -[4442.30 --> 4442.68] but it -[4442.68 --> 4443.02] exposes -[4443.02 --> 4443.60] our limits. -[4445.24 --> 4445.94] Verse 24 -[4445.94 --> 4446.32] says, -[4446.66 --> 4447.44] whatever exists -[4447.44 --> 4448.18] is far off -[4448.18 --> 4448.64] and most -[4448.64 --> 4449.10] profound. -[4449.22 --> 4449.54] Who can -[4449.54 --> 4449.90] discover -[4449.90 --> 4450.14] it. -[4450.46 --> 4450.82] Even -[4450.82 --> 4451.38] wisdom -[4451.38 --> 4452.10] has its -[4452.10 --> 4452.68] ceiling -[4452.68 --> 4453.86] and yet, -[4454.72 --> 4455.54] by grace -[4455.54 --> 4456.30] through faith, -[4456.42 --> 4456.98] that ceiling -[4456.98 --> 4457.96] becomes a -[4457.96 --> 4458.34] window. -[4458.76 --> 4459.14] When we -[4459.14 --> 4459.60] reach the -[4459.60 --> 4460.04] end of -[4460.04 --> 4460.18] our -[4460.18 --> 4460.72] comprehension, -[4461.08 --> 4461.36] faith -[4461.36 --> 4462.04] truly -[4462.04 --> 4462.96] begins and -[4462.96 --> 4463.26] we can -[4463.26 --> 4463.88] start to -[4463.88 --> 4465.28] see God. -[4469.34 --> 4469.70] So, -[4470.00 --> 4471.30] at the -[4471.30 --> 4471.98] very end -[4471.98 --> 4473.26] of chapter -[4473.26 --> 4473.68] 7, -[4474.66 --> 4474.98] the teacher -[4474.98 --> 4475.34] says, -[4475.66 --> 4476.12] this only -[4476.12 --> 4477.34] have I -[4477.34 --> 4477.72] found. -[4477.72 --> 4478.52] verse 29, -[4478.68 --> 4478.94] God -[4478.94 --> 4479.46] created -[4479.46 --> 4480.04] mankind -[4480.04 --> 4480.62] upright, -[4481.26 --> 4481.56] but they -[4481.56 --> 4481.88] have gone -[4481.88 --> 4482.36] in search -[4482.36 --> 4482.84] of many -[4482.84 --> 4483.88] schemes. -[4485.08 --> 4486.10] The core -[4486.10 --> 4486.72] of biblical -[4486.72 --> 4487.72] wisdom -[4487.72 --> 4488.60] is that -[4488.60 --> 4489.64] true wisdom -[4489.64 --> 4490.60] ends not -[4490.60 --> 4491.88] in self-awareness -[4491.88 --> 4492.90] or self-assurance, -[4493.34 --> 4493.70] but in -[4493.70 --> 4494.38] surrender. -[4495.62 --> 4496.04] And in -[4496.04 --> 4496.76] surrendering -[4496.76 --> 4497.86] ourselves to -[4497.86 --> 4498.04] God, -[4498.10 --> 4498.78] in seeing -[4498.78 --> 4499.82] God more -[4499.82 --> 4500.16] clearly, -[4500.28 --> 4500.88] we actually -[4500.88 --> 4501.76] finally begin -[4501.76 --> 4502.28] to see -[4502.28 --> 4503.10] ourselves. -[4504.00 --> 4504.36] Wisdom -[4504.36 --> 4504.80] isn't about -[4504.80 --> 4505.36] mastery, -[4505.68 --> 4506.04] it's about -[4506.04 --> 4506.50] humility. -[4506.66 --> 4507.04] The wise -[4507.04 --> 4507.54] don't know -[4507.54 --> 4508.08] everything, -[4508.34 --> 4508.84] but they -[4508.84 --> 4509.44] know the -[4509.44 --> 4510.12] one who -[4510.12 --> 4510.86] does. -[4511.46 --> 4512.00] We live -[4512.00 --> 4512.84] as creatures -[4512.84 --> 4514.08] before the -[4514.08 --> 4514.60] creator, -[4514.88 --> 4515.56] resting in -[4515.56 --> 4516.42] his severe -[4516.42 --> 4517.64] mercies and -[4517.64 --> 4518.56] trusting in -[4518.56 --> 4519.52] his sovereign -[4519.52 --> 4520.36] hand. -[4522.70 --> 4523.54] And after -[4523.54 --> 4523.96] all his -[4523.96 --> 4524.34] searching, -[4525.52 --> 4525.96] the teacher -[4525.96 --> 4526.66] discovers what -[4526.66 --> 4527.00] we all -[4527.00 --> 4527.84] eventually do, -[4528.22 --> 4528.80] that wisdom -[4528.80 --> 4529.32] has his -[4529.32 --> 4529.66] limits, -[4530.46 --> 4531.38] but God -[4531.38 --> 4532.02] does not. -[4532.02 --> 4534.32] And in -[4534.32 --> 4534.48] that -[4534.48 --> 4534.98] realization, -[4535.60 --> 4536.00] we find -[4536.00 --> 4536.42] the heartbeat -[4536.42 --> 4536.98] of faith. -[4538.56 --> 4539.78] That wisdom -[4539.78 --> 4540.84] is better -[4540.84 --> 4542.42] than folly, -[4543.02 --> 4544.00] but it -[4544.00 --> 4544.68] cannot master -[4544.68 --> 4545.52] life's -[4545.52 --> 4546.16] crookedness. -[4546.84 --> 4547.06] And so -[4547.06 --> 4547.80] our hope -[4547.80 --> 4549.14] rests not -[4549.14 --> 4549.64] in being -[4549.64 --> 4550.28] wise, -[4550.54 --> 4551.26] but in -[4551.26 --> 4552.02] knowing -[4552.02 --> 4553.00] God. -[4554.04 --> 4554.72] This is -[4554.72 --> 4555.24] where the -[4555.24 --> 4556.30] renewing of -[4556.30 --> 4557.08] our minds -[4557.08 --> 4558.24] falls down -[4558.24 --> 4559.14] into the -[4559.14 --> 4560.38] affections of -[4560.38 --> 4561.58] our hearts, -[4561.62 --> 4561.92] because -[4561.92 --> 4562.78] wisdom is -[4562.78 --> 4563.30] not only -[4563.30 --> 4564.00] right-thinking, -[4564.24 --> 4564.50] it is -[4564.50 --> 4565.40] right-loving. -[4566.36 --> 4566.60] And to -[4566.60 --> 4567.22] see life -[4567.22 --> 4567.98] clearly is -[4567.98 --> 4568.52] to learn -[4568.52 --> 4569.28] to love -[4569.28 --> 4570.02] God -[4570.02 --> 4570.82] rightly, -[4570.96 --> 4571.50] to worship -[4571.50 --> 4572.12] him in -[4572.12 --> 4572.58] the crooked -[4572.58 --> 4573.52] and in -[4573.52 --> 4574.02] the straight, -[4574.12 --> 4574.42] in the -[4574.42 --> 4575.50] laughter and -[4575.50 --> 4575.82] in the -[4575.82 --> 4576.16] tears. -[4576.40 --> 4576.84] That's -[4576.84 --> 4577.14] where the -[4577.14 --> 4577.40] teacher -[4577.40 --> 4578.08] leads us. -[4578.64 --> 4578.88] From -[4578.88 --> 4579.32] wisdom -[4579.32 --> 4579.64] that -[4579.64 --> 4580.26] thinks -[4580.26 --> 4581.44] to a -[4581.44 --> 4581.82] wisdom -[4581.82 --> 4582.34] that -[4582.34 --> 4583.02] adores. -[4584.34 --> 4584.76] And the -[4584.76 --> 4585.26] fullness -[4585.26 --> 4586.20] of this -[4586.20 --> 4586.76] wisdom -[4586.76 --> 4588.32] is revealed -[4588.32 --> 4589.14] for us -[4589.14 --> 4589.84] in Jesus -[4589.84 --> 4590.38] Christ. -[4590.38 --> 4591.92] He lived -[4591.92 --> 4592.32] the life -[4592.32 --> 4592.68] I should -[4592.68 --> 4593.16] have lived -[4593.16 --> 4594.14] perfectly -[4594.14 --> 4595.12] obediently, -[4595.50 --> 4595.92] perfectly -[4595.92 --> 4596.54] trusting, -[4597.04 --> 4597.48] perfectly -[4597.48 --> 4598.18] loving, -[4598.66 --> 4598.98] and he -[4598.98 --> 4599.60] died the -[4599.60 --> 4600.10] death that -[4600.10 --> 4601.04] I deserve, -[4601.16 --> 4601.60] taking the -[4601.60 --> 4602.24] consequences -[4602.24 --> 4603.12] of my -[4603.12 --> 4604.04] folly and -[4604.04 --> 4604.72] my failure -[4604.72 --> 4605.54] upon himself. -[4606.02 --> 4606.32] And in -[4606.32 --> 4606.76] him, -[4607.12 --> 4608.02] the crookedness -[4608.02 --> 4608.58] of all -[4608.58 --> 4609.50] life finds -[4609.50 --> 4610.24] its answer. -[4610.58 --> 4611.12] In him, -[4611.26 --> 4611.96] the limits -[4611.96 --> 4612.76] of human -[4612.76 --> 4613.40] understanding -[4613.40 --> 4613.92] are met -[4613.92 --> 4614.72] with divine -[4614.72 --> 4615.72] understanding, -[4615.72 --> 4616.12] and the -[4616.12 --> 4617.20] severe mercies -[4617.20 --> 4617.72] of God -[4617.72 --> 4618.28] find their -[4618.28 --> 4618.86] ultimate -[4618.86 --> 4619.72] expression -[4619.72 --> 4620.44] in the -[4620.44 --> 4620.88] person -[4620.88 --> 4621.68] of Jesus -[4621.68 --> 4622.26] Christ. -[4622.56 --> 4622.80] Jesus -[4622.80 --> 4623.22] Christ, -[4623.30 --> 4623.66] who Paul -[4623.66 --> 4624.20] says in -[4624.20 --> 4624.78] 1 Corinthians -[4624.78 --> 4625.10] 1, -[4625.16 --> 4625.56] 24, -[4626.00 --> 4626.38] is the -[4626.38 --> 4626.82] wisdom -[4626.82 --> 4627.58] of God -[4627.58 --> 4628.42] and the -[4628.42 --> 4628.82] power -[4628.82 --> 4629.46] of God. -[4630.80 --> 4631.16] So where -[4631.16 --> 4631.98] my striving -[4631.98 --> 4632.84] falls short, -[4633.00 --> 4633.68] he perfectly -[4633.68 --> 4634.30] fulfills. -[4634.50 --> 4634.96] Where my -[4634.96 --> 4635.58] understanding -[4635.58 --> 4636.26] reaches his -[4636.26 --> 4636.60] ceiling, -[4636.86 --> 4637.54] he opens -[4637.54 --> 4637.90] up the -[4637.90 --> 4638.36] window of -[4638.36 --> 4638.56] faith. -[4638.66 --> 4639.08] Where my -[4639.08 --> 4639.34] hope -[4639.34 --> 4639.82] falters, -[4640.14 --> 4640.96] he secures -[4640.96 --> 4641.18] it. -[4641.46 --> 4642.00] To behold -[4642.00 --> 4642.80] him is to -[4642.80 --> 4643.62] see wisdom -[4643.62 --> 4644.30] not as an -[4644.30 --> 4644.66] abstract -[4644.66 --> 4645.38] principle, -[4645.38 --> 4646.44] but as a -[4646.44 --> 4646.82] living, -[4647.30 --> 4647.68] loving, -[4648.06 --> 4648.64] redeeming -[4648.64 --> 4649.60] God who -[4649.60 --> 4650.56] meets us -[4650.56 --> 4651.26] in the -[4651.26 --> 4652.24] brokenness -[4652.24 --> 4652.76] and the -[4652.76 --> 4653.30] crookedness, -[4653.40 --> 4653.72] in the -[4653.72 --> 4654.30] suffering, -[4654.76 --> 4655.36] and in the -[4655.36 --> 4656.46] mysteries of -[4656.46 --> 4656.86] life, -[4657.02 --> 4657.28] and who -[4657.28 --> 4658.54] draws our -[4658.54 --> 4659.96] hearts to -[4659.96 --> 4660.50] himself. -[4662.72 --> 4663.44] Wisdom -[4663.44 --> 4665.06] shapes our -[4665.06 --> 4666.66] hearts just -[4666.66 --> 4667.44] as much as -[4667.44 --> 4668.02] our minds. -[4669.24 --> 4669.72] And to see -[4669.72 --> 4670.68] life clearly -[4670.68 --> 4671.78] is to worship -[4671.78 --> 4672.72] rightly, -[4672.86 --> 4673.52] to learn the -[4673.52 --> 4674.18] posture of -[4674.18 --> 4675.28] adoration in -[4675.28 --> 4675.76] the midst -[4675.76 --> 4676.42] of the -[4676.42 --> 4676.96] straight or -[4676.96 --> 4677.26] crooked, -[4677.36 --> 4677.92] the joyful or -[4677.92 --> 4678.34] the painful. -[4678.74 --> 4679.64] Christian worship -[4679.64 --> 4680.86] isn't just -[4680.86 --> 4682.24] Sunday music -[4682.24 --> 4683.16] or Sunday -[4683.16 --> 4683.84] ritual, -[4684.10 --> 4684.52] it's the -[4684.52 --> 4685.80] orientation of -[4685.80 --> 4686.82] the heart to -[4686.82 --> 4687.52] God in -[4687.52 --> 4688.94] every moment. -[4689.84 --> 4690.36] It's the -[4690.36 --> 4691.02] love that -[4691.02 --> 4692.34] flows from -[4692.34 --> 4693.22] understanding -[4693.22 --> 4694.52] the Father's -[4694.52 --> 4696.10] hand holding -[4696.10 --> 4697.58] the world -[4697.58 --> 4698.96] and therefore -[4698.96 --> 4700.84] holding you. -[4700.84 --> 4702.84] God's -[4702.84 --> 4704.32] love that -[4704.32 --> 4705.28] will -[4705.28 --> 4705.92] be. -[4705.92 --> 4706.16] And as we -[4706.16 --> 4706.58] move from -[4706.58 --> 4707.58] head to -[4707.58 --> 4708.92] heart to -[4708.92 --> 4710.24] hands, we -[4710.24 --> 4711.00] ask, how do -[4711.00 --> 4711.84] we then live -[4711.84 --> 4712.60] this wisdom -[4712.60 --> 4713.56] out? -[4714.12 --> 4714.50] The teacher -[4714.50 --> 4715.54] points to a -[4715.54 --> 4716.20] pattern of -[4716.20 --> 4717.66] merciful realism -[4717.66 --> 4718.60] and the gospel -[4718.60 --> 4719.52] and the work of -[4719.52 --> 4720.22] the Holy Spirit -[4720.22 --> 4721.28] gives us power -[4721.28 --> 4722.62] to pursue it. -[4722.76 --> 4723.46] And so last -[4723.46 --> 4724.68] week, Kevin -[4724.68 --> 4725.76] talked about -[4725.76 --> 4727.06] spiritual disciplines -[4727.06 --> 4728.30] as rhythms -[4728.30 --> 4729.66] of resistance. -[4731.10 --> 4731.74] These spiritual -[4731.74 --> 4732.42] disciplines are -[4732.42 --> 4732.90] not about -[4732.90 --> 4734.00] achieving mastery -[4734.00 --> 4735.16] over life, -[4735.18 --> 4735.60] but about -[4735.60 --> 4736.82] forming a -[4736.82 --> 4737.68] heart that -[4737.68 --> 4738.54] rests in -[4738.54 --> 4739.40] God, that -[4739.40 --> 4740.38] loves rightly -[4740.38 --> 4741.28] and responds -[4741.28 --> 4742.30] in worship -[4742.30 --> 4742.92] no matter what -[4742.92 --> 4744.12] is happening. -[4744.48 --> 4745.20] If the head -[4745.20 --> 4745.92] trains our -[4745.92 --> 4746.78] minds and the -[4746.78 --> 4747.50] heart trains -[4747.50 --> 4748.46] our affections, -[4748.76 --> 4749.40] the hands -[4749.40 --> 4750.26] train our -[4750.26 --> 4751.12] daily lives. -[4752.70 --> 4753.56] So Ecclesiastes -[4753.56 --> 4754.46] 7 isn't going -[4754.46 --> 4755.26] to leave us -[4755.26 --> 4755.80] with these -[4755.80 --> 4757.18] abstract ideas, -[4757.32 --> 4757.96] but rather it's -[4757.96 --> 4758.72] going to call -[4758.72 --> 4759.32] us to -[4759.32 --> 4760.68] practical rhythms -[4760.68 --> 4761.76] that shape us -[4761.76 --> 4762.48] as disciples -[4762.48 --> 4763.60] of Jesus. -[4764.66 --> 4765.04] And so to -[4765.04 --> 4765.78] end our time -[4765.78 --> 4767.28] in the word -[4767.28 --> 4767.88] this morning, -[4768.10 --> 4769.28] I will name -[4769.28 --> 4770.40] just three. -[4772.16 --> 4772.70] We are -[4772.70 --> 4773.24] called -[4773.24 --> 4774.90] to prayers -[4774.90 --> 4775.68] of trust -[4775.68 --> 4776.94] in the midst -[4776.94 --> 4777.60] of suffering. -[4779.42 --> 4779.88] And so maybe -[4779.88 --> 4780.54] we pray, -[4780.70 --> 4781.54] Lord, don't -[4781.54 --> 4782.62] waste this pain, -[4783.16 --> 4783.74] teach me your -[4783.74 --> 4784.06] hand. -[4785.84 --> 4786.50] And this will -[4786.50 --> 4787.24] teach us -[4787.24 --> 4788.24] reliance on -[4788.24 --> 4789.12] God's provision, -[4789.72 --> 4790.42] not our -[4790.42 --> 4791.32] mastery or -[4791.32 --> 4792.22] our fawning -[4792.22 --> 4793.06] for control. -[4793.66 --> 4794.50] And this will -[4794.50 --> 4796.04] form in us -[4796.04 --> 4797.24] a resilient -[4797.24 --> 4798.44] hope. -[4799.90 --> 4800.32] And so we -[4800.32 --> 4800.54] pray, -[4800.70 --> 4801.40] Lord, don't -[4801.40 --> 4802.24] waste this -[4802.24 --> 4802.96] pain. -[4804.00 --> 4804.62] Teach me -[4804.62 --> 4805.34] to see your -[4805.34 --> 4805.64] hand. -[4806.66 --> 4807.48] Second, we are -[4807.48 --> 4808.02] called to -[4808.02 --> 4809.02] rhythms of -[4809.02 --> 4809.60] reflection. -[4809.86 --> 4810.56] And so maybe -[4810.56 --> 4811.38] on your heart -[4811.38 --> 4811.78] you pray, -[4811.86 --> 4812.78] God, graciously -[4812.78 --> 4813.96] remind me that -[4813.96 --> 4814.66] my life is -[4814.66 --> 4815.36] finite, but -[4815.36 --> 4815.90] you are -[4815.90 --> 4816.50] sovereign and -[4816.50 --> 4817.32] your providential -[4817.32 --> 4818.34] hand is over -[4818.34 --> 4818.86] all things. -[4819.24 --> 4820.38] And this will -[4820.38 --> 4822.02] work in you -[4822.02 --> 4822.84] to counter -[4822.84 --> 4823.94] the instinct -[4823.94 --> 4825.06] to escape -[4825.06 --> 4825.80] or to -[4825.80 --> 4826.86] numb or -[4826.86 --> 4828.14] to chase -[4828.14 --> 4828.98] constant -[4828.98 --> 4830.20] productivity or -[4830.20 --> 4831.12] whatever it -[4831.12 --> 4832.24] is and allow -[4832.24 --> 4833.24] us instead -[4833.24 --> 4834.26] in these -[4834.26 --> 4835.04] rhythms of -[4835.04 --> 4836.26] reflection to -[4836.26 --> 4838.28] rest in -[4838.28 --> 4839.80] God. -[4839.80 --> 4841.80] rest in -[4841.80 --> 4842.40] life. -[4842.40 --> 4842.46] And I -[4842.46 --> 4842.86] think most -[4842.86 --> 4843.44] of us -[4843.44 --> 4844.52] could use -[4844.52 --> 4844.88] some more -[4844.88 --> 4846.58] resting right -[4846.58 --> 4846.88] now. -[4848.46 --> 4849.08] And lastly, -[4849.24 --> 4849.74] we are called -[4849.74 --> 4850.40] to receive -[4850.40 --> 4850.96] faithful -[4850.96 --> 4851.58] correction. -[4852.92 --> 4853.28] And so we -[4853.28 --> 4853.86] pray, Jesus, -[4854.46 --> 4855.10] bring trusted -[4855.10 --> 4856.02] friends, bring -[4856.02 --> 4857.16] spiritual mentors, -[4857.60 --> 4858.60] bring discipling -[4858.60 --> 4859.64] voices into -[4859.64 --> 4861.00] my life that -[4861.00 --> 4861.92] you might -[4861.92 --> 4862.98] speak to my -[4862.98 --> 4863.80] heart through -[4863.80 --> 4864.48] them. -[4865.68 --> 4866.66] And this will -[4866.66 --> 4867.52] train our hearts -[4867.52 --> 4868.78] to see severe -[4868.78 --> 4869.90] mercies as -[4869.90 --> 4871.50] mercies, to -[4871.50 --> 4872.24] see faithful -[4872.24 --> 4873.10] wounds as -[4873.10 --> 4874.38] faithful and -[4874.38 --> 4875.88] friendly, and -[4875.88 --> 4876.76] to receive -[4876.76 --> 4877.58] fatherly -[4877.58 --> 4879.02] chastisements as -[4879.02 --> 4880.02] the actions of -[4880.02 --> 4881.42] a truly loving -[4881.42 --> 4882.28] God. -[4883.74 --> 4885.54] Wisdom cannot -[4885.54 --> 4887.06] straighten life's -[4887.06 --> 4888.50] crookedness or -[4888.50 --> 4889.84] calm your -[4889.84 --> 4891.38] life's chaos, -[4892.26 --> 4893.80] but Jesus -[4893.80 --> 4894.16] can. -[4896.16 --> 4897.40] Rest in -[4897.40 --> 4897.58] him. -[4898.78 --> 4899.66] Love -[4899.66 --> 4900.32] him. -[4901.24 --> 4901.72] Walk -[4901.72 --> 4902.40] faithfully -[4902.40 --> 4903.26] with him -[4903.26 --> 4903.92] and build -[4903.92 --> 4904.50] rhythms -[4904.50 --> 4906.30] with him. -[4907.50 --> 4908.60] The same -[4908.60 --> 4909.92] hand that -[4909.92 --> 4910.82] shapes the -[4910.82 --> 4911.16] crooked, -[4912.46 --> 4913.04] guides your -[4913.04 --> 4913.52] steps, -[4914.92 --> 4916.34] and guides -[4916.34 --> 4917.44] all of -[4917.44 --> 4917.92] history. -[4919.02 --> 4919.44] And in -[4919.44 --> 4921.02] him we -[4921.02 --> 4921.56] rest. -[4922.40 --> 4923.06] Let's pray -[4923.06 --> 4923.36] together. -[4923.36 --> 4923.46] Amen. -[4923.46 --> 4923.50] Amen. -[4923.50 --> 4923.54] Amen. -[4923.54 --> 4923.56] Amen. -[4923.56 --> 4923.60] Amen. -[4923.60 --> 4923.62] Amen. -[4928.78 --> 4929.82] Holy -[4929.82 --> 4930.32] Father, we -[4930.32 --> 4931.70] come to -[4931.70 --> 4932.30] your table. -[4933.64 --> 4934.34] Allow us -[4934.34 --> 4936.12] to rest in -[4936.12 --> 4937.96] you here. -[4939.96 --> 4941.38] Fill us to -[4941.38 --> 4942.48] overflowing with -[4942.48 --> 4943.24] your mercy and -[4943.24 --> 4944.40] love that it -[4944.40 --> 4945.06] might spill -[4945.06 --> 4946.64] forward from -[4946.64 --> 4947.04] us. -[4948.80 --> 4949.80] Meet us in -[4949.80 --> 4950.92] this moment with -[4950.92 --> 4952.30] hopeful -[4952.30 --> 4953.18] realism -[4953.18 --> 4955.24] wisdom, that -[4955.24 --> 4955.96] we might go -[4955.96 --> 4957.58] empowered and -[4957.58 --> 4958.56] sustained into -[4958.56 --> 4959.56] the days and -[4959.56 --> 4960.54] week ahead. -[4961.44 --> 4962.24] We pray this, -[4962.36 --> 4962.98] Jesus, in your -[4962.98 --> 4964.04] holy name. -[4965.04 --> 4965.36] Amen. -[4965.36 --> 4975.16] We are about -[4975.16 --> 4976.02] to come to -[4976.02 --> 4976.48] the table -[4976.48 --> 4978.04] together, not -[4978.04 --> 4978.82] because we are -[4978.82 --> 4980.22] wise, not -[4980.22 --> 4980.78] because we are -[4980.78 --> 4982.82] foolish, because -[4982.82 --> 4983.70] God calls us -[4983.70 --> 4984.68] to, because this -[4984.68 --> 4985.46] is the place where -[4985.46 --> 4987.60] we are invited to -[4987.60 --> 4988.20] commune with -[4988.20 --> 4988.46] Jesus. -[4989.62 --> 4990.32] And so we are -[4990.32 --> 4991.08] invited to come -[4991.08 --> 4991.74] whether we are -[4991.74 --> 4992.50] falling apart -[4992.50 --> 4993.08] right now, -[4993.82 --> 4994.68] whether we are -[4994.68 --> 4995.06] broken, -[4995.36 --> 4996.82] whether we are -[4996.82 --> 4997.76] being gently -[4997.76 --> 4998.72] put back together -[4998.72 --> 4999.50] or whether we -[4999.50 --> 4999.94] are feeling -[4999.94 --> 5000.50] whole. -[5000.76 --> 5001.74] We are called -[5001.74 --> 5003.02] to come and -[5003.02 --> 5003.80] dine together -[5003.80 --> 5004.84] with Christ who -[5004.84 --> 5006.36] joins us around -[5006.36 --> 5007.40] this table. -[5008.48 --> 5009.36] So, brothers and -[5009.36 --> 5009.78] sisters, that -[5009.78 --> 5011.20] Emmanuel lift up -[5011.20 --> 5012.14] your hearts. -[5013.12 --> 5016.72] It is, let us -[5016.72 --> 5017.62] give thanks to -[5017.62 --> 5018.58] the Lord our -[5018.58 --> 5019.20] God. -[5022.08 --> 5022.84] Let's pray. -[5022.84 --> 5025.46] with joy we -[5025.46 --> 5026.12] praise you, -[5026.28 --> 5027.02] gracious God, -[5027.66 --> 5028.18] for you have -[5028.18 --> 5029.04] created heaven -[5029.04 --> 5030.26] and earth, -[5030.38 --> 5031.28] made us in -[5031.28 --> 5031.94] your image, -[5032.08 --> 5032.56] and kept -[5032.56 --> 5033.86] covenant with -[5033.86 --> 5035.46] us, even -[5035.46 --> 5036.08] when we fell -[5036.08 --> 5036.60] into sin. -[5037.88 --> 5038.66] We give you -[5038.66 --> 5039.16] thanks for -[5039.16 --> 5039.92] Jesus Christ, -[5040.04 --> 5040.98] who by his -[5040.98 --> 5041.82] life, death, -[5042.16 --> 5042.88] and resurrection -[5042.88 --> 5044.34] opened to us -[5044.34 --> 5045.44] the way of -[5045.44 --> 5046.94] everlasting life. -[5047.74 --> 5048.04] Amen. -[5048.04 --> 5051.60] Jesus, before -[5051.60 --> 5052.26] he suffered, -[5052.40 --> 5053.20] gave us this -[5053.20 --> 5054.32] memorial of -[5054.32 --> 5055.38] this sacrifice -[5055.38 --> 5056.22] until he -[5056.22 --> 5056.82] comes again. -[5057.96 --> 5058.72] The Lord Jesus, -[5058.88 --> 5059.46] on the night he -[5059.46 --> 5060.18] was betrayed, -[5060.32 --> 5060.84] took bread, -[5061.50 --> 5062.22] and after he -[5062.22 --> 5062.54] had given -[5062.54 --> 5063.10] thanks, he -[5063.10 --> 5063.68] broke it -[5063.68 --> 5066.56] and said, -[5066.56 --> 5068.16] this is my -[5068.16 --> 5069.40] body, which -[5069.40 --> 5069.80] is given -[5069.80 --> 5070.34] for you. -[5070.98 --> 5071.48] Do this -[5071.48 --> 5072.14] in remembrance -[5072.14 --> 5072.76] of me. -[5074.28 --> 5075.20] In the same -[5075.20 --> 5075.98] way, after -[5075.98 --> 5077.68] supper, he -[5077.68 --> 5077.98] took the -[5077.98 --> 5078.78] cup, saying, -[5080.24 --> 5083.52] this cup -[5083.52 --> 5084.66] is the new -[5084.66 --> 5085.68] covenant in -[5085.68 --> 5086.24] my blood. -[5086.84 --> 5087.30] Do this -[5087.30 --> 5087.94] whenever you -[5087.94 --> 5088.50] drink it -[5088.50 --> 5089.36] in remembrance -[5089.36 --> 5090.00] of me. -[5090.72 --> 5091.20] For whenever -[5091.20 --> 5091.98] you eat this -[5091.98 --> 5092.58] bread and -[5092.58 --> 5093.28] drink this -[5093.28 --> 5094.82] cup, you -[5094.82 --> 5095.70] proclaim the -[5095.70 --> 5096.38] Lord's death -[5096.38 --> 5097.30] until he -[5097.30 --> 5098.12] comes again. -[5099.84 --> 5101.32] This is -[5101.32 --> 5101.84] the mystery -[5101.84 --> 5102.36] of our -[5102.36 --> 5102.66] faith. -[5104.06 --> 5104.62] For the death -[5104.62 --> 5105.40] of Christ -[5105.40 --> 5106.30] we proclaim, -[5107.00 --> 5107.24] for the -[5107.24 --> 5107.92] resurrection -[5107.92 --> 5108.78] we affirm -[5108.78 --> 5109.52] joy, -[5110.26 --> 5110.50] for the -[5110.50 --> 5110.90] coming -[5110.90 --> 5111.58] we give -[5111.58 --> 5112.24] you hope. -[5112.90 --> 5113.64] Glory be -[5113.64 --> 5114.14] to you, -[5114.26 --> 5114.92] Lord Jesus. -[5116.12 --> 5117.02] Church family, -[5117.10 --> 5117.58] the Lord has -[5117.58 --> 5118.30] prepared this -[5118.30 --> 5119.22] table for all -[5119.22 --> 5119.96] who love him -[5119.96 --> 5121.10] and trust in -[5121.10 --> 5121.82] him alone for -[5121.82 --> 5122.48] their salvation, -[5122.64 --> 5123.22] and so come. -[5123.76 --> 5124.24] Come, -[5124.24 --> 5125.38] those to -[5125.38 --> 5126.02] this table, -[5126.60 --> 5126.98] you who -[5126.98 --> 5127.50] have much -[5127.50 --> 5127.90] faith, -[5128.56 --> 5129.18] or you who -[5129.18 --> 5129.72] have little, -[5130.98 --> 5131.40] you who -[5131.40 --> 5131.86] would like to -[5131.86 --> 5132.46] have more. -[5133.66 --> 5134.66] Come to -[5134.66 --> 5135.46] this table, -[5136.46 --> 5137.62] you who -[5137.62 --> 5138.22] have been to -[5138.22 --> 5138.80] this sacrament -[5138.80 --> 5139.30] often, -[5140.30 --> 5141.88] and you who -[5141.88 --> 5142.46] have not been -[5142.46 --> 5143.00] for a long -[5143.00 --> 5143.36] time. -[5144.56 --> 5145.42] You who have -[5145.42 --> 5146.02] tried to -[5146.02 --> 5146.72] follow Jesus, -[5146.98 --> 5147.54] and you -[5147.54 --> 5149.32] who have -[5149.32 --> 5149.62] failed. -[5150.84 --> 5151.86] Come to -[5151.86 --> 5152.54] this table, -[5152.88 --> 5153.62] because Jesus -[5153.62 --> 5155.52] is raised. -[5156.78 --> 5157.52] Come if you -[5157.52 --> 5158.12] are here, -[5158.34 --> 5158.92] or if you -[5158.92 --> 5159.54] are at home -[5159.54 --> 5160.50] and online. -[5161.68 --> 5162.50] It is Christ -[5162.50 --> 5163.48] who invites us -[5163.48 --> 5164.24] to meet him -[5164.24 --> 5164.62] here. -[5166.50 --> 5167.26] These are the -[5167.26 --> 5168.06] gifts of God -[5168.06 --> 5169.02] for the people -[5169.02 --> 5169.58] of God. -[5172.38 --> 5173.34] As we partake -[5173.34 --> 5174.00] in this supper -[5174.00 --> 5174.60] together, -[5174.82 --> 5175.40] the elders -[5175.40 --> 5176.40] will be inviting -[5176.40 --> 5177.08] you together -[5177.08 --> 5178.10] row by row, -[5178.22 --> 5178.74] and so when it -[5178.74 --> 5179.30] is your turn, -[5179.36 --> 5179.76] we are going to -[5179.76 --> 5180.60] gather around -[5180.60 --> 5181.28] this table -[5181.28 --> 5182.32] together here -[5182.32 --> 5183.24] at the front. -[5183.34 --> 5183.72] Families, -[5183.98 --> 5184.58] we invite you -[5184.58 --> 5185.02] to come up -[5185.02 --> 5185.48] with your -[5185.48 --> 5186.30] children as well, -[5186.38 --> 5186.76] whether they -[5186.76 --> 5187.12] are going to -[5187.12 --> 5187.96] partake or not. -[5188.02 --> 5188.44] We would love -[5188.44 --> 5189.24] for them to -[5189.24 --> 5189.82] be up here -[5189.82 --> 5190.32] with us. -[5190.80 --> 5191.42] In the middle -[5191.42 --> 5192.22] of each tray -[5192.22 --> 5192.82] of bread, -[5192.90 --> 5193.52] there is also -[5193.52 --> 5194.68] a cup that -[5194.68 --> 5195.68] has gluten-free -[5195.68 --> 5196.28] bread, -[5196.36 --> 5196.80] so if that is -[5196.80 --> 5197.20] something that -[5197.20 --> 5197.48] you need, -[5197.54 --> 5198.08] we have that -[5198.08 --> 5198.84] available for -[5198.84 --> 5199.98] you as well. -[5200.66 --> 5201.34] If you are -[5201.34 --> 5202.06] unable to -[5202.06 --> 5202.58] come forward -[5202.58 --> 5203.34] for any reason -[5203.34 --> 5203.78] at all, -[5204.04 --> 5204.38] please do -[5204.38 --> 5205.30] indicate that -[5205.30 --> 5206.22] to the serving -[5206.22 --> 5206.82] elders who are -[5206.82 --> 5207.46] going to be -[5207.46 --> 5208.22] ushering you -[5208.22 --> 5208.68] in your rows, -[5208.76 --> 5209.06] and they will -[5209.06 --> 5209.62] come and serve -[5209.62 --> 5210.50] you in your -[5210.50 --> 5211.60] seats too. -[5211.94 --> 5212.38] We are going -[5212.38 --> 5213.36] to start with -[5213.36 --> 5213.90] the serving -[5213.90 --> 5214.82] elders and -[5214.82 --> 5215.38] the worship -[5215.38 --> 5216.38] team and -[5216.38 --> 5217.26] anybody involved -[5217.26 --> 5218.14] in helping us -[5218.14 --> 5218.50] through the -[5218.50 --> 5219.64] communion here -[5219.64 --> 5219.96] as well, -[5220.04 --> 5220.36] so I'm going -[5220.36 --> 5220.94] to invite them -[5220.94 --> 5221.64] to come forward -[5221.64 --> 5222.24] at this time. -[5223.28 --> 5223.84] When you are -[5223.84 --> 5224.46] given a piece -[5224.46 --> 5224.82] of bread, -[5224.90 --> 5225.40] we invite you -[5225.40 --> 5225.70] to say, -[5225.94 --> 5226.72] this is Christ's -[5226.72 --> 5227.42] body broken -[5227.42 --> 5227.94] for you, -[5228.42 --> 5228.80] and when you -[5228.80 --> 5229.20] are given -[5229.20 --> 5229.70] the juice -[5229.70 --> 5230.14] in the cup, -[5230.22 --> 5230.66] we invite you -[5230.66 --> 5231.00] to say, -[5231.34 --> 5232.36] this is Christ's -[5232.36 --> 5233.40] blood shed -[5233.40 --> 5234.16] for you. -[5239.62 --> 5251.16] And I'll -[5251.16 --> 5251.56] get you -[5251.56 --> 5252.16] to say, -[5252.16 --> 5253.08] it's -[5253.08 --> 5253.68] an -[5254.22 --> 5254.44] ệnx, -[5254.44 --> 5255.44] an -[5255.44 --> 5256.28] eve agua, -[5256.28 --> 5257.08] 這邊 -[5257.38 --> 5258.22] eject front, -[5258.22 --> 5259.84] email us -[5260.18 --> 5260.92] on the -[5260.92 --> 5262.22] ush favour -[5262.22 --> 5262.50] go, -[5262.58 --> 5263.96] on -[5263.96 --> 5264.78] him or -[5264.78 --> 5265.24] some -[5265.24 --> 5265.76] on -[5265.76 --> 5266.56] that -[5266.56 --> 5296.54] Thank you. -[5296.56 --> 5326.54] Thank you. -[5326.56 --> 5356.54] Thank you. -[5356.56 --> 5386.54] Thank you. -[5386.56 --> 5416.54] Thank you. -[5416.56 --> 5446.54] Thank you. -[5446.56 --> 5448.56] Thank you. -[5476.56 --> 5478.56] Thank you. -[5506.56 --> 5508.56] Thank you. -[5536.56 --> 5538.56] Thank you. -[5566.56 --> 5568.56] Thank you. -[5596.56 --> 5598.56] Thank you. -[5598.56 --> 5600.56] Thank you. -[5628.56 --> 5630.56] Thank you. -[5658.56 --> 5660.56] Thank you. -[5660.56 --> 5662.56] Thank you. -[5662.56 --> 5664.56] Thank you. -[5664.56 --> 5666.56] Thank you. -[5666.56 --> 5668.56] Thank you. -[5668.56 --> 5670.56] Thank you. -[5670.56 --> 5672.56] Thank you. -[5672.56 --> 5674.56] Thank you. -[5674.56 --> 5676.56] Thank you. -[5676.56 --> 5678.56] Thank you. -[5678.56 --> 5680.56] Thank you. -[5680.56 --> 5682.56] Thank you. -[5682.56 --> 5684.56] Thank you. -[5684.56 --> 5686.56] Thank you. -[5686.56 --> 5688.56] Thank you. -[5688.56 --> 5690.56] Thank you. -[5690.56 --> 5691.56] Thank you. -[5691.56 --> 5693.56] Thank you. -[5693.56 --> 5694.56] Thank you. -[5694.56 --> 5695.56] Thank you. -[5695.56 --> 5701.56] Thank you. -[5701.56 --> 5713.76] Your only Son, no sin to hide, but you have sent Him from your side -[5713.76 --> 5725.14] to walk upon this guilty soft and to become the Lamb of God. -[5725.14 --> 5739.42] The gift of love they crucified, they laughed and scorned Him as He died. -[5739.42 --> 5750.86] The humble King they named a fraud and sacrificed the Lamb of God. -[5750.86 --> 5762.00] O Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God, I love the Holy Lamb of God. -[5762.00 --> 5773.66] O wash me in His precious blood, my Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. -[5773.66 --> 5786.80] I was so lost, I should have died, but you have brought me to your side -[5786.80 --> 5797.94] to be led by your staff and rod and to become the Lamb of God. -[5797.94 --> 5809.08] O Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God, I love the Holy Lamb of God. -[5809.08 --> 5820.22] O wash me in His precious blood, my Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. -[5820.22 --> 5831.36] O Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God, I love the Holy Lamb of God. -[5831.36 --> 5843.36] O wash me in His precious blood, my Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. -[5843.36 --> 5856.50] O Lord, sweet Lamb of God. -[5856.50 --> 5857.50] O Savior, sweet Lamb of God -[5857.50 --> 5857.74] O Gandalf of God -[5857.74 --> 5858.64] O Eun Him from Get Loose -[5858.64 --> 5859.64] Oida -[5859.64 --> 5862.46] Ong -[5862.46 --> 5864.60] Treating -[5864.60 --> 5864.72] What God -[5864.72 --> 5867.66] What? -[5871.64 --> 5873.96] Feed -[5873.96 --> 5877.10] O -[5877.10 --> 5878.14] a -[5878.14 --> 5879.68] O -[5879.68 --> 5880.36] O -[5880.36 --> 5880.74] o -[5880.74 --> 5882.54] o -[5882.54 --> 5883.60] o -[5883.60 --> 5884.56] o -[5884.56 --> 5893.22] Oh Lord, my rock and my redeemer -[5893.22 --> 5900.66] Greatest treasure of my longing soul -[5900.66 --> 5908.28] My God, like you there is no other -[5908.28 --> 5915.34] True delight is found in you alone -[5915.34 --> 5923.62] Your grace, a world too deep to fathom -[5923.62 --> 5930.76] Your love exceeds the heavens' reach -[5930.76 --> 5937.76] Your truth, a fount of perfect wisdom -[5937.76 --> 5945.68] My highest good and my unending need -[5945.68 --> 5956.50] Oh Lord, my rock and my redeemer -[5956.50 --> 5963.76] Strong defender of my weary heart -[5963.76 --> 5971.68] My sword to fight the cruel deceiver -[5971.68 --> 5979.68] And my shield against his faithful dark -[5979.68 --> 5987.60] Your song when enemies surround me -[5987.60 --> 5994.68] My hope when tides of sorrow rise -[5994.68 --> 6000.60] My joy when trials are abounding -[6000.60 --> 6008.60] Your faithfulness, my refuge in the night -[6008.60 --> 6018.52] Oh Lord, my rock and my redeemer -[6018.52 --> 6026.44] Gracious Savior of my ruined life -[6026.44 --> 6033.72] My guilt and cross laid on your shoulders -[6033.72 --> 6040.44] In my place you suffered, bled and died -[6040.44 --> 6048.36] You rose, the grave and death are conquered -[6048.36 --> 6056.36] You broke my bonds of sin and shame -[6056.36 --> 6070.28] You broke my bonds of sin and shame -[6070.28 --> 6072.20] You broke my bonds of sin and shame -[6072.20 --> 6078.20] Oh Lord, my rock and my redeemer -[6078.20 --> 6086.12] May all my days bring glory to your name -[6086.12 --> 6092.12] Oh Lord, my rock and my redeemer -[6092.12 --> 6100.12] May all my days bring glory to your name -[6100.12 --> 6106.04] You broke my bonds around your� -[6106.04 --> 6117.96] frustrating -[6117.96 --> 6143.76] What is our hope in life and death? -[6143.76 --> 6153.54] Christ alone, Christ alone, what is our only confidence? -[6154.20 --> 6158.52] That our souls to Him belong. -[6159.00 --> 6163.60] Who holds our days within His hand? -[6163.98 --> 6168.12] What comes apart from His command? -[6168.12 --> 6173.76] And what will keep us to the end? -[6174.24 --> 6179.12] The love of Christ in which we stand. -[6182.24 --> 6186.50] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[6187.58 --> 6191.62] Our hope springs eternal. -[6191.62 --> 6196.72] Oh, sing hallelujah. -[6197.36 --> 6200.62] Now and ever we confess. -[6201.60 --> 6205.62] Christ our hope in life and death. -[6205.62 --> 6206.22] Amen. -[6212.76 --> 6217.70] What truth can calm the troubled soul? -[6218.34 --> 6220.22] God is good. -[6221.00 --> 6222.82] God is good. -[6223.24 --> 6227.82] And with His grace and goodness known. -[6227.82 --> 6232.88] In our great Redeemer's blood -[6232.88 --> 6237.94] Who holds our faith when fears arise -[6237.94 --> 6242.94] Who stands above the stormy trial -[6242.94 --> 6248.18] Who sends the waves that bring us night -[6248.18 --> 6253.88] Unto the shore of the rock of Christ -[6253.88 --> 6260.76] Oh, sing hallelujah -[6260.76 --> 6265.82] Our hope springs eternal -[6265.82 --> 6270.78] Oh, sing hallelujah -[6270.78 --> 6275.12] Now and ever we confess -[6275.12 --> 6279.90] Christ our hope in life and death -[6279.90 --> 6291.74] To the grave, what will we sing? -[6292.54 --> 6296.96] Christ he lives, Christ he lives -[6296.96 --> 6302.04] And what reward will heaven bring? -[6304.04 --> 6306.96] Everlasting life within -[6306.96 --> 6312.22] There we will rise to meet the Lord -[6312.22 --> 6317.10] When sin and death will be destroyed -[6317.10 --> 6322.32] And we will feast in endless joy -[6322.32 --> 6329.10] With Christ in God forevermore -[6329.10 --> 6334.10] Oh, sing hallelujah -[6334.10 --> 6339.78] Our hope springs eternal -[6339.78 --> 6344.10] Oh, sing hallelujah -[6344.10 --> 6349.06] Now and ever we confess -[6349.06 --> 6353.40] Christ our hope in life and death -[6353.40 --> 6358.40] Oh, sing hallelujah -[6358.40 --> 6363.02] Our hope springs eternal -[6363.02 --> 6367.40] Oh, sing hallelujah -[6367.40 --> 6369.40] Now and ever we confess -[6369.40 --> 6371.40] Now and ever we confess -[6371.40 --> 6376.40] Christ our hope in life and death -[6376.40 --> 6379.40] Now and ever we confess -[6379.40 --> 6385.40] Christ our hope in life and death -[6385.40 --> 6391.40] Let us wait -[6391.40 --> 6395.68] Oh, sing hallelujah -[6395.68 --> 6425.66] piano plays softly -[6425.68 --> 6428.36] beyond all measure -[6428.36 --> 6434.52] that he should give his only Son -[6434.52 --> 6439.54] and make a wretch his treasure. -[6440.76 --> 6445.80] How great the pain of searing loss -[6445.80 --> 6451.12] the Father turns his face away -[6451.12 --> 6456.12] as wounds which mar the chosen dawn -[6456.84 --> 6461.80] bring many sons to glory. -[6461.80 --> 6471.80] piano plays softly -[6471.80 --> 6477.14] Behold the man upon a cross -[6477.14 --> 6482.12] My sin upon his shoulders -[6482.12 --> 6488.24] Ashamed I hear my mocking voice -[6488.24 --> 6493.68] Call out among the softers -[6493.68 --> 6499.20] It was my sin that held him there -[6499.20 --> 6503.72] Until it was accomplished -[6503.72 --> 6509.62] His dying breath has brought me dry -[6509.62 --> 6515.34] I know that it is sinning -[6515.34 --> 6529.02] I will not boast in any name -[6529.02 --> 6533.58] No gifts, no power, no wisdom -[6533.58 --> 6539.90] But I will boast in Jesus Christ -[6539.90 --> 6544.10] His death and resurrection -[6544.10 --> 6549.38] Why should I gain from his reward? -[6549.38 --> 6554.58] I cannot give an answer -[6554.58 --> 6560.90] But this I know with all my heart -[6560.90 --> 6565.34] His wounds I paid my ransom -[6565.34 --> 6570.58] What should I gain from his reward? -[6570.58 --> 6576.58] I cannot give an answer -[6576.58 --> 6583.22] But this I know with all my heart -[6583.22 --> 6588.74] His wounds I paid my ransom -[6588.74 --> 6594.68] While you remain standing -[6594.68 --> 6596.06] I invite you just to pray with me -[6596.06 --> 6599.14] Oh amazing God -[6599.14 --> 6601.28] You come into our ordinary lives -[6601.28 --> 6603.68] And you have set this table among us -[6603.68 --> 6605.82] God you have filled our plates -[6605.82 --> 6606.86] With bread of life -[6606.86 --> 6608.08] And with cups of salvation -[6608.08 --> 6610.06] And now God as we are sent out -[6610.06 --> 6612.36] We pray that with tender heartedness -[6612.36 --> 6615.28] You will touch an ordinary everyday world -[6615.28 --> 6617.50] With the promise of your holiness -[6617.50 --> 6618.70] Amen -[6618.70 --> 6622.02] And so as we go out from this place -[6622.02 --> 6625.18] Let us remember who our God is -[6625.18 --> 6627.96] That he invites us into fellowship with him -[6627.96 --> 6631.84] And sends us out to declare his name -[6631.84 --> 6633.34] To the community around us -[6633.34 --> 6635.16] And as we go from this place -[6635.16 --> 6637.38] Please receive this parting blessing -[6637.38 --> 6641.22] The Lord bless you and keep you -[6641.22 --> 6644.18] The Lord make his face shine upon you -[6644.18 --> 6645.32] And be gracious to you -[6645.32 --> 6648.00] The Lord turn his face toward you -[6648.00 --> 6650.24] And give you his peace -[6650.24 --> 6652.18] And all of God's people said -[6652.18 --> 6653.40] Amen -[6653.40 --> 6655.38] piano plays softly -[6655.38 --> 6685.36] Thank you. -[6685.38 --> 6715.36] Thank you. -[6715.38 --> 6717.38] Thank you. -[6745.38 --> 6760.38] Declaring aloud, praise and glory, wisdom and faith, honor and power and strength. -[6760.38 --> 6766.38] Be to our God forever and ever. -[6766.38 --> 6771.38] Be to our God forever and ever. -[6771.38 --> 6776.38] Be to our God forever and ever. -[6776.38 --> 6778.38] Amen. -[6778.38 --> 6780.38] Amen. -[6780.38 --> 6810.38] -[6810.38 --> 6812.38] Amen. -[6812.38 --> 6814.38] Amen. -[6814.38 --> 6816.38] Amen. -[6816.38 --> 6818.38] Amen. -[6818.38 --> 6820.38] Amen. -[6820.38 --> 6822.38] Amen. -[6822.38 --> 6824.38] Amen. -[6824.38 --> 6826.38] Amen. -[6826.38 --> 6828.38] Amen. -[6828.38 --> 6830.38] Amen. -[6830.38 --> 6832.38] Amen. -[6832.38 --> 6834.38] Amen. -[6834.38 --> 6836.38] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, October 12, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, October 12, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 90876d8ee4171bce7dd3bcfa2a391603ef6d96ab..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, October 12, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,126 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction to the service and worship team -• Announcements: Ministry leaders meeting, Safe Church Training Day night -• Call to worship from Psalm 148 -• Reading of Revelation for God's greeting this morning -• Congregational responses (Amen) and song (Hallelujah) -• Continued congregational singing with repetition of "Holy is the Lamb" -• The speaker leads a group in worship, singing hymns and prayers -• They read the Heidelberg Catechism's Lord's Day 3 together -• A deacon, Mike, takes time for financial offering and explains how donations can be given to the church or Langley Food Bank -• Songs and music -• Ending of every song -• Praise to God -• Hallelujah -• Child and birth -• Nothing else before God -• Heart singing Alleluia -• Children's worship time -• Giving thanks to God -• Man called Jeremiah in the Bible -• Prayer led by elder Steve -• Gratitude and compassion -• Thanksgiving leading to generosity -• Salvation through Jesus Christ -• Prayers for individuals in need (Rick and Sam Walters, Clary Hosteroff's sister, John Kuypers, Tessa) -• Pastor Kevin's message -• Folk tale about a farmer and the meaning of good luck vs. bad luck in all circumstances -• Introduction to Jeremiah text on gratitude in all circumstances -• The speaker describes how humans often can't see the full picture of their circumstances as good or bad -• God sees the whole picture and ordains events in our lives -• Jeremiah's letter to the exiles in Babylon, written around 597 BC, contains instructions for them to settle down, plant gardens, marry, and increase in number -• The letter encourages the exiles to seek the peace and prosperity of their new city and pray for it because if it prospers, they will prosper as well -• God's people are strangers and foreigners in a foreign land, but God is with them and guides them through exile -• The concept of God's people being strangers and foreigners in a foreign land -• Jeremiah's letter as God's word to his people, emphasizing His presence with them despite their circumstances -• The idea that distance does not separate us from God, illustrated by the example of God's people in Babylon -• The relevance of the Bible to modern life, demonstrating how it speaks and is active in our lives today -• The metanarrative of God's redemption story as a foundation and authority for our lives -• God's authority and rule over his people includes exile -• God ordained the Israelites' 40-year wandering in Exodus -• God ordained Job's suffering as a test of faith -• God ordained the famine that drove Jacob to Egypt -• God worked through Joseph's suffering to save many lives -• God's sovereignty is revealed throughout scripture, pointing to his ruling over all things -• God's purposes are not simply bigger or more powerful than human circumstances, but rather the circumstances themselves serve a purpose -• Jeremiah's letter tells Israelites to settle in and make their new life in Babylon, despite initial instinct to resist and fight back -• The exile was not a mistake, but rather part of God's plan from the beginning -• Similarly, modern-day hardships and struggles can be seen as part of God's plan, even if they seem unjust or confusing -• Wanting to escape difficult circumstances -• Questioning if God could have prevented suffering -• Understanding the difference between "bigger God" and "big God" theology -• Recognizing that God ordains all circumstances for His glory -• Sharing personal experience of a school bus accident and its unexpected consequences -• Exploring trust in God amidst suffering -• God works for the good of those who love Him, even in trials and suffering. -• God uses all things, including hard times, to shape His people for His glory. -• Believers are called to trust and give thanks to a big God who loves them more than they can understand. -• God's people are to live fully, contributing to society, growing in number, and working for the good of creation. -• This is in line with God's original command in Genesis 1:28 to be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, subdue it, and have dominion over all living things. -• The creational mandate in Genesis is about creating, cultivating, and ruling over creation under God's authority. -• This pattern of responsibility continues through the Bible with Adam, Noah, and Abraham, who are called to create, preserve life, and be a blessing to others. -• Jeremiah reminds his people that this plan still applies even when they are in exile, and especially during difficult times. -• As followers of God today, we are also foreigners on earth and citizens of the kingdom of heaven, awaiting Jesus' return to transform our lives. -• Our responsibilities as believers include contributing to society, growing in number, and remembering who rules over us. -• Exiles and foreigners in a foreign land, living by faith -• The church is in exile, with citizens belonging to God's kingdom -• Christians should live fully present in their current location while knowing their true citizenship lies elsewhere -• The world can be seen as foreign or unrecognizable at times -• The real problem is not the culture itself, but making God small and forgetting His sovereignty over the world -• The importance of not making faith fit personal politics or preferences -• The kingdom of God is already political with its own king, way, and road map -• Trying to squeeze human ideologies into God's kingdom results in a small, malleable God -• God reigns over all things, including culture and worldviews -• Understanding God's sovereignty brings patience, thankfulness, and confidence in adversity -• God's presence and power over all things, including blessings and hardships -• Jeremiah's book and its message of hope for the people of Israel in exile -• The specific passage from Jeremiah 29.11 about God's plans for a prosperous future -• Misinterpretation of Jeremiah 29.11 as relating to personal goals or desires rather than the Jewish people's return from exile and the coming Messiah -• Historical context: Israel's exile, settlement in Babylon, and eventual return home with the rebuilding of the temple -• The fulfillment of God's plan for the Jewish people, including their future meeting with the Messiah -• The Messiah's birth and life -• Jesus' death and resurrection -• The role of the church in anticipation of Christ's return and kingdom -• Finding joy in suffering through union with Christ -• Thanking God for blessings, including those found in suffering -• Rejoicing always in all circumstances -• Praying without ceasing, in good and bad times -• Giving thanks in all circumstances, even in suffering and exile -• Living with purpose, contributing to culture and community, despite being in a foreign world -• Following God's will, remembering his magnitude and ruling over everything -• Thanking God for blessings, people, community, joys of living, and suffering -• Praising God's sovereignty over all things, drawing closer to him through times of joy and hardship. -• The secure and assured hope found only in Jesus Christ -• God's word is sure and true, revealing a true God -• Invitation to meet God at his table, where the grace offered in God's word is present -• The banquet as a reminder of ultimate victory and presence with us -• Coming to the feast table of the king as strangers and exiles to be nourished by his word and spirit -• Giving thanks to the Lord our God for creation, making us in his image, keeping covenant despite sin, and opening the way to everlasting life through Jesus Christ -• The Lord's death and resurrection -• Proclaiming the Lord's death until he comes again -• Faith, trust, and salvation through Christ alone -• Invitation to come to the table regardless of faith level or frequency of attendance -• Passing of elements (bread and juice) in small groups -• Inviting each other to say the body and blood of Christ given/shed for each person -• Pre-service preparations for elders to help with serving and ushering -• Availability of gluten-free bread in small cups at the center of the table -• Serving of food to certain tables, including worship leaders and elders -• Singing through the service and receiving supper -• Opportunity to meet someone for prayer during the service -• Invitation to meet and pray with the speaker -• Reference to the body of Christ given for them -• Discussion of dying to oneself -• Mention of the blood of Christ shed for them, repeated throughout the transcript -• Invitation to the table -• Mystery of the cross -• Acknowledgement of being seated at God's table as an enemy now redeemed -• Expressions of gratitude and praise to God -• Thanking God for giving us His Son and leading His Spirit on earth -• Praising God for saving and redeeming humanity from sin -• Acknowledging Jesus as the Savior of the world and our only hope -• Expressing gratitude for God's mercy, grace, and forgiveness -• Declaring God's greatness and power above all things -• Recognizing humanity's weakness and need for spiritual guidance -• Emphasizing the importance of giving thanks not just for blessings, but also for suffering -• The priestly blessing from Numbers 6 -• Recitation of the blessing: God's blessings and protection, His face shining upon and being gracious to the person, His peace given to them -• Repeated affirmation of "Amen" by the people \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, October 12, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, October 12, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index fc242381c3c03859f83ba297b9e8d4f58a07c285..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, October 12, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2286 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] We'll be right back. -[30.00 --> 31.00] Amen. -[60.00 --> 61.00] Amen. -[90.00 --> 91.00] Amen. -[120.00 --> 121.00] Amen. -[150.00 --> 151.00] Amen. -[180.00 --> 181.00] Amen. -[210.00 --> 211.00] Amen. -[240.00 --> 241.00] Amen. -[270.00 --> 271.00] Amen. -[300.00 --> 301.00] Amen. -[330.00 --> 331.00] Amen. -[360.00 --> 361.00] Amen. -[390.00 --> 391.00] Amen. -[420.00 --> 421.00] Amen. -[450.00 --> 452.00] Amen. -[460.82 --> 462.78] Good morning, everyone. -[464.30 --> 466.88] Happy Thanksgiving to everyone today. -[467.60 --> 468.86] Oh, thank you. -[468.92 --> 469.78] That's so kind. -[470.48 --> 471.16] Thank you, Judy. -[471.80 --> 477.68] It is good to be together here in this place today to worship God, to give thanks to him -[477.68 --> 478.24] for all things. -[478.54 --> 479.68] My name is Kevin Lobert. -[479.68 --> 485.86] I'm the youth pastor here at Langley Emanuel CRC. It's my pleasure, along with this worship team -[485.86 --> 492.84] here behind me and others as well, to take part in this service as well. Before we get into the -[492.84 --> 497.48] service, just a couple of announcements. There's a couple of dates to circle in your heads or -[497.48 --> 504.26] your calendars. If you are a ministry leader or a leader of a care group, we are having a ministry -[504.26 --> 510.24] and missions table meeting this coming Wednesday, starting at 7 p.m. So that information has come -[510.24 --> 514.88] out. You should have received emails about that. If you've got any questions about that night, you -[514.88 --> 520.20] can chat with Chris or myself. We can give you more, but we will be meeting here on Wednesday at 7 p.m. -[520.20 --> 527.00] for that. And then as well, not tomorrow, but the following Monday, October 20th, we'll be having our -[527.00 --> 532.00] second Safe Church Training Day night. It'll be at night, so it's not really a day. It's just a couple -[532.00 --> 537.68] hours, too, so I don't want to overhype this thing. But if you are in need of doing Safe Church -[537.68 --> 543.14] Training, that is happening on Monday, October 20th, again, starting at 7 p.m., so please do -[543.14 --> 547.74] come out for that. If you need more information, again, you can talk to either Chris or myself or -[547.74 --> 553.94] Rachel here in the front. She can give you some more information about that. I'm going to invite -[553.94 --> 563.44] you all to rise now and receive God's greeting this morning. God's greeting this morning comes -[563.44 --> 567.50] from Revelation, where he says this, -[568.08 --> 575.24] Grace and peace to you from him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven -[575.24 --> 580.38] spirits that are before his throne, and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, -[580.38 --> 586.48] the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth, and all of God's people -[586.48 --> 591.08] said. As God has greeted us this morning, please take a moment to greet those around you. -[610.38 --> 637.20] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 148. -[637.20 --> 646.48] Praise the Lord. Praise the Lord from the heavens. Praise him in the heights above. Praise him, -[646.72 --> 654.20] all his angels. Praise him, all his heavenly hosts. Praise him, sun and moon. Praise him, -[654.30 --> 662.00] all you shining stars. Praise him, you highest heavens and you waters above the skies. Let them -[662.00 --> 668.06] praise the name of the Lord. For at his command they were created, and he established them forever -[668.06 --> 676.12] and ever. He issued a decree that will never pass away. Praise the Lord from the earth, you great sea -[676.12 --> 683.34] creatures and all ocean depths, lightning and hail, snow and clouds, stormy winds that do his bidding. -[683.34 --> 692.28] You mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars, wild animals and all cattle, small creatures and flying birds, -[693.04 --> 701.22] kings of the earth and all nations, you princes and all rulers on earth, young men and women, old men and children. -[702.34 --> 706.50] Let them praise the name of the Lord, for his name alone is exalted. -[706.50 --> 713.04] His splendor is above the earth and the heavens. And he raised up for his people a horn, -[713.68 --> 720.50] the praise of all his faithful servants of Israel, the people close to his heart. Praise the Lord. -[720.50 --> 734.66] Wha -[734.66 --> 739.42] mu actually -[739.42 --> 740.42] Amen. -[769.42 --> 770.42] Amen. -[799.42 --> 800.42] Amen. -[829.42 --> 830.42] Amen. -[859.42 --> 860.42] Amen. -[889.42 --> 890.42] Amen. -[919.42 --> 920.42] Amen. -[949.42 --> 950.42] Amen. -[979.42 --> 980.42] Amen. -[1009.96 --> 1011.44] Amen. -[1017.96 --> 1018.44] Amen. -[1022.38 --> 1026.38] Amen. -[1026.38 --> 1029.98] For the Lord God of mighty praise -[1029.98 --> 1034.68] Hallelujah -[1034.68 --> 1040.02] Hallelujah -[1040.02 --> 1045.74] For the Lord God of mighty praise -[1045.74 --> 1049.88] Hallelujah -[1049.88 --> 1053.70] Holy -[1053.70 --> 1057.36] Holy -[1057.36 --> 1063.84] Are you Lord God of mighty? -[1065.72 --> 1067.94] Holy is the Lamb -[1067.94 --> 1070.90] Holy is the Lamb -[1070.90 --> 1073.52] You are holy -[1073.52 --> 1076.74] Holy -[1076.74 --> 1083.16] Are you Lord God of mighty? -[1083.70 --> 1084.70] Holy -[1084.70 --> 1089.68] Are you Lord God of mighty? -[1089.68 --> 1090.70] Holy -[1090.70 --> 1102.68] Are you Lord God of mighty? -[1102.68 --> 1103.74] Holy -[1103.74 --> 1105.88] Are you Lord God of mighty? -[1105.88 --> 1106.78] Holy -[1106.78 --> 1109.76] Are you Lord God of mighty? -[1109.76 --> 1111.78] Holy -[1111.78 --> 1114.78] Are you Lord God of mighty? -[1114.78 --> 1115.78] Holy -[1115.78 --> 1119.78] Are you Lord God of mighty? -[1119.78 --> 1120.78] Holy -[1120.78 --> 1123.78] Are you Lord God of mighty? -[1123.78 --> 1124.78] Worthy is the Lamb -[1124.78 --> 1126.78] Worthy is the Lamb -[1126.78 --> 1127.78] Worthy is the Lamb -[1127.78 --> 1131.78] Are you Lord God of mighty? -[1131.78 --> 1132.78] Amen -[1132.78 --> 1150.42] Please read responsibly with me for our confession and assurance. -[1150.42 --> 1155.54] What is your only comfort in life and in death? -[1155.54 --> 1166.54] That I am not my home, but the Lamb of mighty and soul, in life and in death, to my faithful Savior Jesus Christ. -[1166.54 --> 1171.54] What must you know to live and die in the joy of this comfort? -[1171.54 --> 1173.54] Three things. -[1173.54 --> 1177.54] First, how great my sin and misery are. -[1177.54 --> 1182.54] Second, how I am set free from all my sins and misery. -[1182.54 --> 1189.54] Third, how I am to thank God for such deliverance. -[1189.54 --> 1203.54] Faithful Lord, His mercy is more. -[1203.54 --> 1207.54] Stronger the darkness, new and more. -[1207.54 --> 1214.54] Our sins they are many, His mercy is more. -[1214.54 --> 1226.54] What love could remember no wrongs we have done. -[1226.54 --> 1231.54] All nations all knowing He has not their song. -[1231.54 --> 1236.54] Thrown into a sea with a bottom or shore. -[1236.54 --> 1238.54] Our sins they are many, His mercy is more. -[1238.54 --> 1243.54] Our sins they are many, His mercy is more. -[1243.54 --> 1255.54] What patience would wait as we constantly roam. -[1255.54 --> 1260.54] What promise no tender is calling us home. -[1260.54 --> 1261.54] He is the weak, His mercy is more. -[1261.54 --> 1262.54] He is the weak, His mercy is more. -[1262.54 --> 1267.54] Our sins they are many, His mercy is more. -[1267.54 --> 1272.54] Our sins they are many, His mercy is more. -[1272.54 --> 1274.54] Praise the Lord, His mercy is more. -[1274.54 --> 1279.54] Praise the Lord, His mercy is more. -[1279.54 --> 1284.54] Stronger the darkness, new and more. -[1284.54 --> 1285.54] Our sins they are many, His mercy is more. -[1285.54 --> 1291.54] Our sins they are many, His mercy is more. -[1291.54 --> 1292.54] For the riches of kindness He lavished on us. -[1292.54 --> 1298.54] His blood was the payment, His blood was the cost. -[1298.54 --> 1299.54] We stood in the debt we could never afford. -[1299.54 --> 1300.54] Our sins they are many, His mercy is more. -[1300.54 --> 1301.54] Praise the Lord, His mercy is more. -[1301.54 --> 1302.54] Praise the Lord, His mercy is more. -[1302.54 --> 1303.54] His mercy is more. -[1303.54 --> 1304.54] His mercy is more. -[1304.54 --> 1307.54] His mercy is more. -[1307.54 --> 1321.54] Our sins they are many, His mercy is more. -[1321.54 --> 1325.54] Praise the Lord, His mercy is more. -[1325.54 --> 1330.20] His mercy is more -[1330.20 --> 1335.50] Stronger the darkness -[1335.50 --> 1337.70] Through and before -[1337.70 --> 1340.36] Our sins and our baby -[1340.36 --> 1342.54] His mercy is more -[1342.54 --> 1345.88] Praise the Lord -[1345.88 --> 1349.62] His mercy is more -[1349.62 --> 1355.00] Stronger the darkness -[1355.00 --> 1357.36] New every morn -[1357.36 --> 1360.10] Our sins they are heavy -[1360.10 --> 1362.62] His mercy is more -[1362.62 --> 1365.42] Our sins they are many -[1365.42 --> 1369.22] His mercy is more -[1369.22 --> 1372.26] I'm glad you can be seated -[1385.00 --> 1394.34] Good morning my name is Mike and I'm a deacon here and we're gonna take some time now to give our -[1394.34 --> 1401.36] Thanks and give back in many of the ways God has given us so we'll take a moment to give of our financial offering right now and -[1401.36 --> 1412.20] Just one way is of course you can give to the ministries of this church and if you want to do so there is some envelopes in the seats in front of you or you can send an e-transfer and support the ministry there -[1412.20 --> 1418.72] Anything undesignated that you give in some baskets or little bags that will go around today go towards the Langley Food Bank -[1418.72 --> 1425.88] You can also give that way through e-transfer and other ways and designate it as such in like the notes or the memo -[1425.88 --> 1430.58] But the Langley Food Bank is something this church has passionately partnered with for many many years -[1430.72 --> 1434.72] There's quite a few members of this church who volunteer there as well as we host -[1435.42 --> 1440.22] We help host the annual Murrayville food bank in the summer and of course support it throughout the year -[1440.22 --> 1443.88] So thank you in advance for that. So if you had brought any groceries -[1443.88 --> 1450.84] It's been a bit of a tradition here on Thanksgiving weekend to bring those forward too and otherwise if you ever want to give to the food bank -[1450.84 --> 1455.88] We do keep a box in the foyer that you can put your non perishable donations in -[1456.28 --> 1458.82] So thank you so much for giving to the Langley Food Bank -[1458.82 --> 1464.70] They work very hard to try and supply any families or customers that come in with two days worth of groceries -[1464.70 --> 1469.74] And then they also try to build relationship and bridge people into relationship with local churches -[1469.74 --> 1474.32] So they are wonderful ministry just in downtown Langley. So thank you for giving as you are able -[1474.32 --> 1476.32] Oh -[1496.32 --> 1498.24] My words fall -[1498.24 --> 1499.24] I'm sure -[1499.24 --> 1503.24] I've got nothing new -[1503.24 --> 1508.24] How could I express -[1508.24 --> 1512.24] All my gratitude -[1512.24 --> 1516.24] I could sing these songs -[1516.24 --> 1518.24] As I often do -[1518.24 --> 1520.24] Every song must end -[1520.24 --> 1522.24] Every song must end -[1522.24 --> 1524.24] I could sing these songs -[1524.24 --> 1525.24] Every song must end -[1525.24 --> 1526.24] Every song must end -[1526.24 --> 1527.24] Every song must end -[1527.24 --> 1531.24] And you never do -[1531.24 --> 1536.24] So I throw up my hands -[1536.24 --> 1540.24] And praise you again and again -[1540.24 --> 1543.24] All that I have -[1543.24 --> 1544.24] All I have is -[1544.24 --> 1545.24] All that I have is -[1545.24 --> 1546.24] Hallelujah -[1547.24 --> 1548.24] Hallelujah -[1548.24 --> 1550.24] Hallelujah -[1550.24 --> 1553.24] Hallelujah -[1553.24 --> 1554.24] I know it's not much -[1554.24 --> 1568.24] is -[1568.24 --> 1582.24] is -[1586.00 --> 1588.24] with my arms -[1598.24 --> 1602.24] praising again and again -[1602.24 --> 1604.24] the child that I have -[1604.24 --> 1606.24] is a sign -[1606.24 --> 1608.24] in -[1608.24 --> 1610.24] you and I -[1610.24 --> 1612.24] hallelujah -[1612.24 --> 1614.24] hallelujah -[1614.24 --> 1616.24] my door is not much -[1616.24 --> 1618.24] but I'm nothing else -[1618.24 --> 1620.24] before a key -[1620.24 --> 1622.24] the second -[1622.24 --> 1624.24] Lord I see -[1624.24 --> 1626.24] he hallelujah -[1626.24 --> 1630.24] hallelujah -[1630.24 --> 1634.24] hallelujah -[1644.24 --> 1646.24] my soul -[1646.24 --> 1648.24] don't you get shone -[1648.24 --> 1650.24] or leave your heart -[1650.24 --> 1652.24] you brought a lot -[1652.24 --> 1654.24] inside of those lungs -[1654.24 --> 1664.14] Come on, my soul. -[1664.14 --> 1666.40] Come on, don't you get shy? -[1666.40 --> 1668.82] I'm hearing of your song. -[1669.36 --> 1673.64] Stay right by the inside of all is love. -[1674.12 --> 1677.18] Come on, praise the Lord. -[1680.74 --> 1682.86] Come on, my soul. -[1682.86 --> 1687.46] Come to get a shine on the image of your song -[1687.46 --> 1692.34] You've got a body inside of those clouds -[1692.34 --> 1697.54] And I pray and pray for those -[1697.54 --> 1705.60] I know how the peace of the time is for the end of the day -[1705.60 --> 1717.84] For the help is our Alleluia, Alleluia -[1717.84 --> 1724.30] And there's not much of nothing else before He -[1724.30 --> 1735.58] Except for a heart singing Alleluia, Alleluia -[1735.60 --> 1744.88] I'm glad you're listening -[1744.88 --> 1758.16] Good morning, everyone. If you are age three up to grade four, I'd like to invite you to come on up. -[1758.16 --> 1762.78] We are going to have a little chat up here and then we have children's worship time. -[1762.78 --> 1766.38] For those, if you're visiting, you're welcome to join us as well. -[1766.38 --> 1771.26] The grade one to grade fours will be coming back in time for Lord's Supper -[1771.26 --> 1774.46] And the preschool and kindergartens will stay in their class the whole time. -[1774.46 --> 1779.34] All right. I don't know where I'm going to sit here, I guess. -[1779.98 --> 1782.06] Okay. Happy Thanksgiving, everybody. -[1782.46 --> 1786.80] We're going to just do a short kids' corner today because we kind of have a busy service -[1786.80 --> 1789.88] And we've got lots of stuff planned together out in children's worship time. -[1790.36 --> 1794.88] We're going to be talking about what it means to give thanks to God no matter where we are. -[1794.88 --> 1799.44] So, and I'm sure you can help me give some ideas of things you're thankful for. -[1799.68 --> 1802.94] And we're going to learn about a man called Jeremiah in the Bible. -[1803.68 --> 1806.04] So let's just stand up. We're going to get started right away. -[1806.36 --> 1809.06] And we'll do our blessing and put it in our hands. -[1809.06 --> 1812.88] And I'll invite the whole church to join us to give and receive a blessing as well. -[1812.88 --> 1842.86] Thank you. -[1842.88 --> 1851.42] Good morning, everyone. -[1852.52 --> 1854.02] I'm Steve. I'm an elder here. -[1854.14 --> 1857.08] And I have the honor of leading us in prayer this morning. -[1859.96 --> 1862.54] Faithful God, creator of heaven and earth, -[1863.18 --> 1866.26] you are the giver of every good and perfect gift. -[1866.82 --> 1871.68] Today, as we gather in gratitude, we lift our hearts to you in thanksgiving and praise. -[1871.68 --> 1875.44] Lord, we thank you for the abundance of your creation, -[1876.04 --> 1879.12] for the harvest gathered from the fields, -[1879.38 --> 1881.24] for the beauty of the changing seasons, -[1881.64 --> 1883.68] for the food that nourishes our bodies, -[1884.20 --> 1887.02] and for the fellowship that nourishes our soul. -[1888.16 --> 1891.44] You have been generous beyond measure, -[1891.70 --> 1894.84] and we acknowledge that all we have comes from you. -[1894.84 --> 1897.94] We thank you for the gift of community, -[1898.54 --> 1901.14] for family and friends, for neighbors and coworkers, -[1901.64 --> 1905.04] for this church family where we can worship, learn, and serve together. -[1905.04 --> 1908.70] Thank you for the joy of belonging to the body of Christ, -[1908.90 --> 1910.88] and for the love that binds us together. -[1912.30 --> 1915.38] Gracious Father, we also bring before you the needs of our world. -[1915.98 --> 1919.10] Where there is hunger, bring daily bread and lasting justice. -[1919.74 --> 1921.58] Where there is conflict, bring peace. -[1921.90 --> 1923.96] Where there is loneliness, bring comfort. -[1923.96 --> 1926.76] And where our hearts are heavy with grief or worry, -[1927.26 --> 1933.76] remind us of your promise that nothing can separate us from the love of Jesus Christ. -[1934.48 --> 1938.30] We remember today those who cannot join us -[1938.30 --> 1941.62] in celebrating those who are ill, those who mourn, -[1941.86 --> 1943.62] those who struggle to find work or shelter. -[1944.38 --> 1946.48] May our gratitude move us to compassion, -[1946.80 --> 1949.12] and our thanksgiving lead us to generosity, -[1949.12 --> 1952.28] so that others may see your goodness through us. -[1954.58 --> 1958.14] Lord Jesus, we thank you most of all for the gift of salvation, -[1958.54 --> 1959.80] for your death and resurrection, -[1960.36 --> 1962.48] that we all have given us a new life. -[1962.94 --> 1965.20] Thank you for the hope that endures beyond seasons, -[1965.40 --> 1968.10] and the joy of knowing that we belong, body and soul, -[1968.32 --> 1971.16] in life and death, to our faithful Savior, Jesus Christ. -[1973.34 --> 1976.98] At this time, we bring before you the requests of our local church family. -[1976.98 --> 1980.58] We lift up to you, Rick and Sam Walters, -[1980.72 --> 1983.20] and their family as they grieve the loss of Rick's niece, -[1983.34 --> 1984.94] Steph, who was killed in a car accident. -[1985.70 --> 1990.02] Comfort them, Lord, and especially be near Steph's five children. -[1991.14 --> 1994.94] May the peace of Christ be tangible for all those who mourn her loss. -[1996.26 --> 1999.16] We pray for Clary Hosteroff's sister, Carolyn, -[1999.24 --> 2002.04] who was in a serious collision several weeks ago in Florida. -[2003.18 --> 2005.54] Father, lay your healing hand upon her body -[2005.54 --> 2007.36] and bring her full recovery and restoration. -[2009.28 --> 2011.26] We continue to pray for John Kuypers. -[2011.68 --> 2013.40] Thank you for the care he has received, -[2013.66 --> 2015.48] and we ask for clarity for his doctors. -[2016.06 --> 2020.30] Grant John and Greta patients strength and hope as they await answers. -[2020.70 --> 2023.56] May the treatments bring full restoration of John's health. -[2024.44 --> 2025.80] And we bring before you Tessa, -[2026.04 --> 2028.56] Jerry Jansen's daughter and Eneka Law's sister, -[2028.68 --> 2030.74] who underwent surgery this past week -[2030.74 --> 2032.30] to remove cancer from her colon. -[2033.32 --> 2035.58] Lord, bless her with healing and renewed strength. -[2038.28 --> 2040.76] Be with Pastor Kevin as he leads us this morning, -[2040.86 --> 2042.92] and we ask you to bless him and his message. -[2044.12 --> 2046.78] God, accept our thanks, our praise, and our requests, -[2047.14 --> 2049.62] for you are good, and your love endures forever. -[2050.16 --> 2052.40] We pray this all in the name of Jesus Christ, -[2052.74 --> 2055.06] your Son, and our Lord and Savior. -[2055.52 --> 2055.78] Amen. -[2055.78 --> 2055.92] Amen. -[2078.92 --> 2080.94] Good morning once again, everyone. -[2081.84 --> 2084.10] Happy Thanksgiving to everyone here. -[2084.10 --> 2089.28] We are going to be looking at a little bit of a non-traditional wedding, -[2089.48 --> 2091.24] or wedding, Thanksgiving text. -[2091.50 --> 2094.26] It's actually a very non-traditional wedding text as well, -[2094.42 --> 2095.40] to be honest with you, -[2095.48 --> 2099.20] but also a non-traditional Thanksgiving text this morning. -[2099.46 --> 2102.86] And part of the reason for that is because during this sermon, -[2102.98 --> 2104.82] I'm actually being evaluated by classes. -[2105.24 --> 2107.84] So right now, there are three people, two people in the room, -[2107.90 --> 2111.34] evaluating me, making sure I am equipped to do this type of work. -[2111.34 --> 2114.20] And so classes has given me this passage to preach on, -[2114.32 --> 2117.00] not knowing that I was going to be preaching on Thanksgiving Sunday. -[2117.30 --> 2121.42] But God is good, because I truly, truly believe -[2121.42 --> 2126.92] that even though this isn't a traditional Thanksgiving Bible text, -[2127.10 --> 2129.86] it does point us, all of God's people, -[2130.36 --> 2134.24] to what it means to be grateful in all circumstances. -[2135.00 --> 2137.92] But before we get into this text that we're going to find in Jeremiah, -[2138.14 --> 2140.46] I've got a bit of a folk tale for you. -[2140.46 --> 2141.78] Now, it's not a Christian folk tale, -[2141.84 --> 2144.24] but it does kind of lay a little bit of the groundwork for this sermon. -[2144.42 --> 2145.86] So, some of you have heard it before. -[2146.00 --> 2148.18] It's not uncommon, but it goes like this. -[2149.00 --> 2152.12] There was once a farmer whose horse ran away. -[2153.14 --> 2155.06] And the neighbor saw that and came out and said, -[2155.16 --> 2156.98] Ah, what such bad luck. -[2157.64 --> 2159.34] And the farmer shrugged his shoulders and said, -[2160.04 --> 2160.34] Maybe. -[2161.42 --> 2163.16] Well, three days later, the horse returned, -[2163.46 --> 2166.24] and with it, he came with three wild horses as well. -[2166.24 --> 2167.92] And the neighbors came out and said, -[2168.04 --> 2169.64] Wow, that's amazing. -[2169.74 --> 2170.44] What good luck. -[2171.36 --> 2173.04] And the farmer shrugged his shoulders and said, -[2173.12 --> 2173.88] Well, maybe. -[2175.14 --> 2178.00] Well, then, the next day, the farmer's son was out -[2178.00 --> 2180.54] trying to tame one of the wild horses that had come, -[2180.86 --> 2182.76] and he fell off the horse and broke his leg. -[2183.52 --> 2185.28] So the neighbors came out and rushed out and said, -[2185.36 --> 2186.36] Wow, that's crazy. -[2186.46 --> 2187.46] That is so unfortunate. -[2187.58 --> 2188.34] What bad luck. -[2189.06 --> 2191.06] And the farmer shrugged his shoulders and said, -[2191.12 --> 2191.78] Well, maybe. -[2191.78 --> 2191.90] Maybe. -[2193.58 --> 2196.28] Later that week, soldiers came to the farm, -[2196.36 --> 2199.18] and they were enlisting all of the young, able-bodied men. -[2199.42 --> 2201.84] They were drafting all of the able-bodied young men -[2201.84 --> 2204.20] to take part in a war that was happening that moment. -[2204.68 --> 2208.40] And the farmer's son was disqualified because of his injury. -[2209.04 --> 2210.38] So the neighbors came out and said, -[2210.48 --> 2211.32] That's amazing. -[2211.46 --> 2212.44] What good luck. -[2213.32 --> 2214.98] And the farmer shrugged his shoulders and said, -[2215.18 --> 2215.72] Maybe. -[2216.82 --> 2217.72] You get the point. -[2219.24 --> 2220.68] We don't see the full picture. -[2220.68 --> 2226.74] We often cannot tell if our circumstances are good or bad. -[2226.86 --> 2229.84] We don't have the gift of retrospect in the moment -[2229.84 --> 2234.42] to see how events in our lives will actually shape our future. -[2235.76 --> 2236.88] But God does. -[2238.26 --> 2240.40] And today we're going to look at a text from Jeremiah -[2240.40 --> 2243.20] and learn that not only does God see the whole picture, -[2244.04 --> 2245.50] He ordains it. -[2246.26 --> 2248.40] He has ultimate authority over it, -[2248.40 --> 2252.08] and He rules over it because we believe in a big God. -[2252.70 --> 2256.14] A big God whose purposes never hinge -[2256.14 --> 2260.10] on luck or coincidence or a reaction. -[2261.12 --> 2264.64] That's the God Jeremiah is going to call us to remember today. -[2264.78 --> 2266.46] That we don't worship a bigger God -[2266.46 --> 2270.32] who tries to fix or work within the context that we find ourselves, -[2270.32 --> 2272.34] but we worship a big God -[2272.34 --> 2275.14] who ordains and rules over every moment, -[2275.78 --> 2277.76] who carries His people into exile, -[2278.06 --> 2280.14] through exile, and home again. -[2280.20 --> 2281.56] So let's read our passage this morning. -[2281.82 --> 2285.06] We're going to look at Jeremiah 29, verses 1 to 7. -[2285.50 --> 2287.14] I encourage you, as always, -[2287.20 --> 2288.60] if you have a Bible with you, -[2289.02 --> 2291.02] open it up and follow along. -[2291.10 --> 2291.84] I also encourage you, -[2291.88 --> 2292.90] if you've got a Bible app, -[2292.94 --> 2293.70] that works as well. -[2293.76 --> 2295.00] So just have those open with you -[2295.00 --> 2296.78] because we're going to be looking back at this text -[2296.78 --> 2298.92] and then elsewhere throughout this message. -[2299.82 --> 2303.28] So Jeremiah 29, verses 1 to 7 says this. -[2303.78 --> 2306.14] This is the text of the letter -[2306.14 --> 2308.56] that the prophet Jeremiah sent from Jerusalem -[2308.56 --> 2311.48] to the surviving elders among the exiles -[2311.48 --> 2312.34] and to the priests, -[2312.84 --> 2313.38] the prophets, -[2313.82 --> 2315.70] and all the people Nebuchadnezzar -[2315.70 --> 2317.98] had carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon. -[2318.90 --> 2322.42] This was after King Joiachin and the Queen Mother, -[2322.60 --> 2323.28] the court officials, -[2323.48 --> 2325.06] and the leaders of Judah and Jerusalem, -[2325.06 --> 2327.12] the skilled workers and the artisans -[2327.12 --> 2328.80] had gone into exile from Jerusalem. -[2329.56 --> 2331.98] He entrusted the letter to Elisha, -[2332.18 --> 2333.04] son of Shaphan, -[2333.68 --> 2336.12] and to Jemira, son of Hilkiah, -[2336.32 --> 2337.68] whom Zedekiah, king of Judah, -[2337.82 --> 2339.92] sent to King Nebuchadnezzar in Babylon. -[2340.84 --> 2341.40] And it said, -[2342.06 --> 2344.42] This is what the Lord Almighty, -[2344.58 --> 2345.46] the God of Israel, -[2345.58 --> 2347.72] says to all those I carried into exile -[2347.72 --> 2349.04] from Jerusalem to Babylon. -[2349.42 --> 2351.48] Build houses and settle down. -[2351.96 --> 2353.88] Plant gardens and eat what they produce. -[2353.88 --> 2355.78] Marry and have sons and daughters. -[2356.16 --> 2357.82] Find wives for your sons -[2357.82 --> 2359.62] and give your daughters in marriage -[2359.62 --> 2362.06] so they too may have sons and daughters. -[2362.74 --> 2363.94] Increase in number there. -[2364.50 --> 2365.54] Do not decrease. -[2366.42 --> 2369.06] Also seek the peace and prosperity of the city -[2369.06 --> 2371.32] to which I have carried you into exile. -[2371.92 --> 2373.20] Pray to the Lord for it -[2373.20 --> 2374.56] because if it prospers, -[2375.02 --> 2376.80] you too will prosper. -[2377.54 --> 2378.92] This is the word of the Lord. -[2378.92 --> 2383.24] So what's happening here? -[2384.24 --> 2386.04] Well, this letter that Jeremiah wrote -[2386.04 --> 2389.04] was likely written around 597 BC, -[2389.32 --> 2391.64] which was shortly after God's people, -[2391.90 --> 2393.62] the people living in the land of Judah, -[2394.14 --> 2396.60] were taken over by the nation of Babylon. -[2397.54 --> 2399.56] All right, this was after the first wave -[2399.56 --> 2402.74] of Jewish exiles from Judah to Babylon took place. -[2402.74 --> 2405.52] And so Jeremiah is writing this letter -[2405.52 --> 2408.36] to a people who are now living in a foreign land -[2408.36 --> 2411.34] under the rule of King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. -[2411.58 --> 2412.96] They're far away from home. -[2413.70 --> 2415.16] They're living under foreign rule. -[2415.26 --> 2416.42] They're in a distant land -[2416.42 --> 2419.36] and God gets Jeremiah to reach out. -[2420.76 --> 2425.04] This letter was God's word to his people in exile. -[2425.04 --> 2427.80] And this Thanksgiving Sunday, -[2427.90 --> 2429.28] the big idea from this message, -[2429.38 --> 2431.76] the big idea comes straight out of this letter -[2431.76 --> 2432.92] that God spoke through Jeremiah. -[2433.08 --> 2434.20] And that big idea is this, -[2434.74 --> 2438.42] that God's people are strangers and foreigners -[2438.42 --> 2440.92] who are called to settle in -[2440.92 --> 2443.06] and be thankful where we are. -[2443.76 --> 2445.90] God's people are strangers and foreigners -[2445.90 --> 2447.62] who are called to settle in -[2447.62 --> 2450.32] and be thankful wherever we are. -[2452.08 --> 2453.92] God speaks this through this word. -[2453.92 --> 2454.82] Make no mistake, -[2455.12 --> 2456.78] this letter that Jeremiah writes, -[2456.84 --> 2459.06] this is God's word to his people. -[2459.46 --> 2461.74] Jeremiah makes that abundantly clear in verse four -[2461.74 --> 2462.30] where it says, -[2462.86 --> 2464.08] this is what the Lord Almighty, -[2464.20 --> 2465.30] the God of Israel says. -[2467.30 --> 2468.62] Now again, God's people were captured. -[2468.94 --> 2470.14] They were taken from their homes. -[2470.52 --> 2473.08] God's temple back in Jerusalem was destroyed. -[2473.48 --> 2475.00] They were in an unfamiliar land. -[2475.10 --> 2477.46] They were 800 miles away -[2477.46 --> 2479.48] with more questions about -[2479.48 --> 2480.94] what was going to be happening next. -[2482.08 --> 2483.56] Things were not looking good. -[2483.92 --> 2487.92] Some of them likely thought that God had abandoned them -[2487.92 --> 2489.92] or maybe had even died along with his temple. -[2491.82 --> 2494.20] But then God speaks to them through this letter. -[2495.60 --> 2496.68] God was not dead. -[2496.78 --> 2498.30] He was not distant or left behind. -[2498.42 --> 2499.78] God was not far away. -[2500.12 --> 2501.02] He was with them. -[2502.16 --> 2504.74] He was right there speaking to them. -[2504.80 --> 2505.38] He was present. -[2505.38 --> 2508.06] This letter from Jeremiah, -[2508.06 --> 2510.60] this word of God was huge for God's people -[2510.60 --> 2513.36] because even though they were in exile, -[2513.88 --> 2516.38] God was not some distant idea -[2516.38 --> 2520.02] off in Jerusalem waiting for them to return. -[2521.22 --> 2522.44] He was there. -[2522.68 --> 2523.58] He was with them, -[2523.90 --> 2524.64] speaking to them, -[2524.80 --> 2526.90] revealing himself to them. -[2526.90 --> 2530.76] And that same word of God -[2530.76 --> 2534.10] is the word that we have access to every day. -[2534.66 --> 2536.56] That same word that we open here -[2536.56 --> 2537.86] every Sunday in church. -[2538.18 --> 2540.36] That same word that Josh tells us to read -[2540.36 --> 2541.96] every week on the podcast. -[2542.48 --> 2544.86] That same word that a number of us -[2544.86 --> 2545.64] in this congregation -[2545.64 --> 2547.18] are reading through together -[2547.18 --> 2548.50] for the next three years. -[2548.50 --> 2552.74] God reveals himself in it. -[2553.40 --> 2554.74] He is active, not distant. -[2554.84 --> 2555.48] He is speaking. -[2555.62 --> 2556.46] He's not silent. -[2556.70 --> 2558.82] He is present no matter where we are. -[2561.80 --> 2562.92] Sometimes I hear people say, -[2562.96 --> 2564.44] and maybe you have heard this too, -[2564.74 --> 2566.94] that the Bible is not necessarily relevant -[2566.94 --> 2568.02] to us anymore, -[2568.16 --> 2570.12] at least not as relevant to us anymore -[2570.12 --> 2572.06] because it was written so long ago. -[2574.26 --> 2576.54] But just like God's people here in Jeremiah, -[2576.54 --> 2579.22] distance does not separate us from God. -[2579.58 --> 2580.44] God's people, yes, -[2580.52 --> 2582.56] they were 800 miles away from their home, -[2582.70 --> 2583.70] but God was with them. -[2583.96 --> 2586.06] Yes, we are 2,000 years away -[2586.06 --> 2588.24] from when Jesus walked and lived on this earth, -[2588.78 --> 2590.94] but he is still active and speaking -[2590.94 --> 2592.24] and present with us -[2592.24 --> 2594.50] because his word speaks. -[2594.84 --> 2596.06] God's word speaks. -[2596.40 --> 2597.50] He is right here. -[2598.72 --> 2600.04] He is right here. -[2601.16 --> 2602.52] This is the foundation -[2602.52 --> 2604.28] and the authority of our lives. -[2604.36 --> 2605.88] And when we dig into this book, -[2606.54 --> 2608.38] when we read its words, -[2609.18 --> 2611.68] we allow the metanarrative -[2611.68 --> 2613.10] of God's redemption story -[2613.10 --> 2614.42] to take root in our hearts -[2614.42 --> 2616.38] and then we start to realize -[2616.38 --> 2618.54] how much of God's story -[2618.54 --> 2620.98] continues on with us, -[2621.08 --> 2622.44] with me, with you. -[2623.54 --> 2624.94] It forms us. -[2625.02 --> 2626.00] It challenges us. -[2626.08 --> 2626.86] It shapes us. -[2627.02 --> 2628.52] And it points us right back to him. -[2628.52 --> 2632.52] That's what Jeremiah's letter was doing -[2632.52 --> 2634.56] for God's people in Babylon. -[2635.48 --> 2637.40] It was getting them to understand -[2637.40 --> 2638.90] that he was still with them -[2638.90 --> 2641.06] even in trying times. -[2643.50 --> 2645.52] But it was more than that, actually. -[2647.38 --> 2648.66] Take a close look here -[2648.66 --> 2649.86] at verse 4 with me again. -[2651.22 --> 2652.04] It says this, -[2652.04 --> 2653.48] this is what the Lord Almighty, -[2653.60 --> 2654.38] the God of Israel, -[2654.52 --> 2654.90] says, -[2655.62 --> 2657.44] to all those I carried -[2657.44 --> 2658.32] into exile -[2658.32 --> 2660.20] from Jerusalem to Babylon. -[2660.74 --> 2661.38] Did you catch that? -[2662.02 --> 2663.12] Look at verse 7 as well. -[2664.18 --> 2664.62] Also, -[2665.46 --> 2666.28] seek the peace -[2666.28 --> 2666.98] and prosperity -[2666.98 --> 2667.78] of the city. -[2667.96 --> 2668.90] I just moved. -[2669.38 --> 2670.58] Also, seek the peace -[2670.58 --> 2671.26] and prosperity -[2671.26 --> 2671.92] of the city -[2671.92 --> 2674.28] to which I have carried -[2674.28 --> 2675.62] you into exile. -[2675.62 --> 2679.24] All those I carried -[2679.24 --> 2679.98] to exile -[2679.98 --> 2682.86] to which I have carried -[2682.86 --> 2684.58] you to exile. -[2686.20 --> 2688.54] See, in God's redemption story, -[2688.90 --> 2689.96] the story that you and I -[2689.96 --> 2690.82] are a part of, -[2692.04 --> 2693.58] his plans often carry -[2693.58 --> 2694.72] times of turmoil. -[2696.38 --> 2696.84] But here, -[2696.98 --> 2697.80] God's authority -[2697.80 --> 2700.16] and rule over his people -[2700.16 --> 2702.40] included exile. -[2703.34 --> 2704.90] I carried you -[2704.90 --> 2706.24] into exile -[2706.24 --> 2707.90] is what it says. -[2709.14 --> 2709.90] God's sovereignty, -[2710.08 --> 2711.20] his absolute right -[2711.20 --> 2711.70] and power -[2711.70 --> 2713.10] to rule over the cosmos -[2713.10 --> 2715.08] ordained this exile -[2715.08 --> 2715.94] to happen. -[2716.12 --> 2716.98] Let that sink in -[2716.98 --> 2717.60] for a second. -[2720.38 --> 2720.86] I know it's not -[2720.86 --> 2721.76] our usual cozy -[2721.76 --> 2723.18] Thanksgiving sermon point here, -[2723.26 --> 2724.94] but God ordained -[2724.94 --> 2726.56] this trying time -[2726.56 --> 2727.64] for his people. -[2728.64 --> 2729.60] He ordained it. -[2729.66 --> 2730.44] He appointed it. -[2730.50 --> 2731.44] He arranged it -[2731.44 --> 2732.24] to happen. -[2733.44 --> 2734.02] And this is not -[2734.02 --> 2735.04] an isolated incident -[2735.04 --> 2735.60] in scripture. -[2735.74 --> 2736.68] Just like God -[2736.68 --> 2738.02] ordained the Israelites -[2738.02 --> 2739.04] to wander the desert -[2739.04 --> 2739.82] for 40 years -[2739.82 --> 2740.22] in Exodus. -[2740.60 --> 2741.56] Just like God -[2741.56 --> 2742.98] ordained the suffering -[2742.98 --> 2743.50] of Job -[2743.50 --> 2744.18] in the entirety -[2744.18 --> 2744.76] of his book. -[2745.02 --> 2746.14] Just like God -[2746.14 --> 2747.54] ordained the famine -[2747.54 --> 2748.86] that drove Jacob -[2748.86 --> 2749.52] and his family -[2749.52 --> 2750.22] to Egypt -[2750.22 --> 2751.12] to escape. -[2751.36 --> 2752.34] And just like God -[2752.34 --> 2753.98] ordained in that same story -[2753.98 --> 2755.24] all of the suffering -[2755.24 --> 2756.26] and turmoil -[2756.26 --> 2757.74] that Joseph went to -[2757.74 --> 2760.42] to get where he was at -[2760.42 --> 2762.08] as an outcast -[2762.08 --> 2762.82] and a slave -[2762.82 --> 2763.68] and a prisoner. -[2764.72 --> 2766.10] God ordained it all. -[2767.56 --> 2768.70] And so much more -[2768.70 --> 2769.20] in scripture. -[2769.96 --> 2770.66] And yet we can learn -[2770.66 --> 2771.28] from that story -[2771.28 --> 2773.10] in Genesis as well -[2773.10 --> 2773.80] about Joseph. -[2774.02 --> 2775.84] In Genesis 50 verse 20, -[2776.14 --> 2777.00] despite the suffering, -[2777.14 --> 2778.22] despite all of the turmoil -[2778.22 --> 2779.56] that Joseph went through, -[2780.88 --> 2781.86] he meets his brothers -[2781.86 --> 2783.30] who sold him into slavery -[2783.30 --> 2784.58] towards the end -[2784.58 --> 2784.92] of his life -[2784.92 --> 2785.64] and he says this, -[2785.64 --> 2786.74] what you intended -[2786.74 --> 2787.42] for evil, -[2788.42 --> 2790.00] God intended -[2790.00 --> 2790.64] for good -[2790.64 --> 2791.30] to accomplish -[2791.30 --> 2792.46] what is now being done, -[2792.76 --> 2793.24] the saving -[2793.24 --> 2794.08] of many lives. -[2796.74 --> 2797.86] God works -[2797.86 --> 2799.00] through everything -[2799.00 --> 2799.84] he ordains -[2799.84 --> 2801.58] and he ordains -[2801.58 --> 2802.16] everything. -[2805.04 --> 2806.42] His revelation -[2806.42 --> 2807.36] throughout scripture -[2807.36 --> 2808.18] points us -[2808.18 --> 2809.00] to this sovereignty, -[2809.22 --> 2810.16] his ruling -[2810.16 --> 2811.34] over all things. -[2811.66 --> 2812.46] This is big -[2812.46 --> 2813.94] God theology. -[2814.62 --> 2815.38] Like we talked about -[2815.38 --> 2815.94] in the opening. -[2816.96 --> 2818.08] God isn't just working -[2818.08 --> 2819.96] within the exile -[2819.96 --> 2821.86] or using the exile -[2821.86 --> 2823.42] that just so happened -[2823.42 --> 2824.94] to be thrust upon -[2824.94 --> 2825.62] his people -[2825.62 --> 2827.08] for his kingdom purposes. -[2827.46 --> 2828.60] God wasn't simply -[2828.60 --> 2829.70] just bigger -[2829.70 --> 2831.04] than the exile -[2831.04 --> 2833.36] or able to use -[2833.36 --> 2834.02] the exile -[2834.02 --> 2834.88] that so happened -[2834.88 --> 2836.34] for his kingdom purposes. -[2837.38 --> 2838.60] The exile -[2838.60 --> 2839.62] was his purpose. -[2840.08 --> 2841.26] The exile itself -[2841.26 --> 2842.40] was purposed by him. -[2842.48 --> 2843.28] He ordained it -[2843.28 --> 2844.56] and he utilized it -[2844.56 --> 2845.58] for his kingdom purposes. -[2847.32 --> 2848.30] That's the shift. -[2849.94 --> 2850.40] Now, -[2850.60 --> 2851.26] put yourself -[2851.26 --> 2852.32] in the shoes -[2852.32 --> 2852.98] of the Israelites -[2852.98 --> 2853.60] for just a minute. -[2853.82 --> 2854.66] You've just been taken -[2854.66 --> 2855.34] from your home. -[2855.64 --> 2856.36] You've just marched -[2856.36 --> 2857.74] miles away. -[2858.38 --> 2859.10] You've been dropped -[2859.10 --> 2859.88] in a foreign land. -[2859.98 --> 2860.82] You've been surrounded -[2860.82 --> 2861.92] by pagan idols -[2861.92 --> 2862.90] and strange customs. -[2863.46 --> 2864.46] Everything in you -[2864.46 --> 2865.42] would want to try -[2865.42 --> 2866.08] to fight back -[2866.08 --> 2866.74] against this. -[2868.30 --> 2869.18] To resist. -[2870.40 --> 2871.04] To say, -[2871.04 --> 2871.52] no way. -[2872.36 --> 2873.58] This can't be part -[2873.58 --> 2874.10] of the plan. -[2874.92 --> 2875.84] There is no way -[2875.84 --> 2877.14] God wants this for me. -[2879.88 --> 2880.52] And yet, -[2880.60 --> 2881.36] Jeremiah's letter -[2881.36 --> 2882.28] tells them otherwise. -[2884.20 --> 2885.16] Jeremiah tells them -[2885.16 --> 2886.20] something shocking, -[2886.34 --> 2886.62] actually. -[2886.68 --> 2887.28] He says this. -[2887.34 --> 2887.68] He says, -[2888.20 --> 2888.80] settle in. -[2889.94 --> 2890.78] Build houses. -[2891.52 --> 2892.24] Plant gardens. -[2892.42 --> 2893.20] Raise families. -[2893.66 --> 2894.84] Seek the peace -[2894.84 --> 2895.82] of the city. -[2895.82 --> 2898.06] Now, -[2898.10 --> 2898.54] that's likely -[2898.54 --> 2899.50] not what God's people -[2899.50 --> 2900.18] wanted to hear. -[2901.36 --> 2902.60] Their natural instinct -[2902.60 --> 2903.02] would have been -[2903.02 --> 2904.02] to start an uprising, -[2904.16 --> 2905.12] to try and escape. -[2905.20 --> 2905.80] And if you read -[2905.80 --> 2906.74] later on in the story, -[2907.00 --> 2907.74] you see that's actually -[2907.74 --> 2908.54] what ends up happening. -[2909.04 --> 2909.98] But Jeremiah says, -[2910.08 --> 2910.20] no. -[2910.84 --> 2911.78] Don't fight it. -[2913.26 --> 2913.94] God's the one -[2913.94 --> 2914.78] who carried you here. -[2914.86 --> 2915.86] This is his plan. -[2916.36 --> 2917.14] And you're going -[2917.14 --> 2918.02] to be here a while. -[2918.76 --> 2919.58] So settle in. -[2920.84 --> 2921.46] Settle in -[2921.46 --> 2922.00] where you are. -[2922.82 --> 2923.06] You see, -[2923.14 --> 2924.12] to resist Babylon -[2924.12 --> 2924.84] here was going -[2924.84 --> 2925.60] to be resisting -[2925.60 --> 2926.42] God. -[2927.76 --> 2928.74] Jeremiah 27, -[2928.88 --> 2929.66] Ezekiel 17, -[2929.78 --> 2930.44] elsewhere say -[2930.44 --> 2931.02] the same thing. -[2931.10 --> 2931.68] This exile -[2931.68 --> 2932.52] wasn't a mistake. -[2935.08 --> 2935.98] It was something, -[2936.80 --> 2937.04] sorry, -[2937.12 --> 2938.06] it wasn't something -[2938.06 --> 2938.74] unexpected -[2938.74 --> 2939.70] that God then -[2939.70 --> 2940.56] had to try to fix. -[2941.50 --> 2942.64] It was God's plan -[2942.64 --> 2943.26] the whole time. -[2945.52 --> 2946.00] Now, -[2946.00 --> 2946.80] we here -[2946.80 --> 2948.02] aren't in exile -[2948.02 --> 2949.80] like Israel was. -[2950.82 --> 2951.88] But we do -[2951.88 --> 2952.74] often -[2952.74 --> 2953.42] go through -[2953.42 --> 2953.84] hardship -[2953.84 --> 2954.58] and injustice -[2954.58 --> 2955.56] and confusion -[2955.56 --> 2956.42] and despair. -[2956.56 --> 2956.98] We hurt -[2956.98 --> 2958.00] and we mourn -[2958.00 --> 2958.82] and we grieve -[2958.82 --> 2959.30] and we just -[2959.30 --> 2960.08] prayed for a whole -[2960.08 --> 2961.00] handful of things -[2961.00 --> 2962.18] that we all struggle -[2962.18 --> 2963.08] with and there was -[2963.08 --> 2963.90] a whole lot of things -[2963.90 --> 2964.80] we couldn't pray for -[2964.80 --> 2965.70] because they're unknown -[2965.70 --> 2967.10] that we know we deal with. -[2969.54 --> 2970.68] We want to fix things. -[2970.76 --> 2971.40] We want to escape. -[2971.54 --> 2972.20] We want to rebel. -[2972.34 --> 2973.36] We want to take control. -[2973.56 --> 2974.26] We grieve -[2974.26 --> 2975.00] and we mourn -[2975.00 --> 2975.72] and there's times -[2975.72 --> 2976.56] that we assume -[2976.56 --> 2977.56] God couldn't have -[2977.56 --> 2978.64] purposely orchestrated. -[2979.16 --> 2980.04] Times that we might -[2980.04 --> 2980.76] assume -[2980.76 --> 2982.24] that surprised God -[2982.24 --> 2983.12] just as much -[2983.12 --> 2984.18] as they surprised us. -[2986.58 --> 2987.86] And that makes sense -[2987.86 --> 2990.56] because times are hard -[2990.56 --> 2992.14] and times hurt. -[2994.36 --> 2995.36] But also, -[2995.52 --> 2996.50] when we start -[2996.50 --> 2997.40] thinking that way, -[2998.42 --> 2999.78] that the hard times -[2999.78 --> 3000.96] that we are experiencing -[3000.96 --> 3002.64] are surprising God -[3002.64 --> 3003.48] as much as they're -[3003.48 --> 3004.48] surprising us, -[3005.16 --> 3007.84] even when we ask God -[3007.84 --> 3008.80] to get us out of them, -[3008.80 --> 3011.36] we are thinking of a God -[3011.36 --> 3012.20] that is merely bigger -[3012.20 --> 3013.22] than our circumstances, -[3014.06 --> 3015.68] not a big God -[3015.68 --> 3016.34] who is sovereign -[3016.34 --> 3017.48] and ruling over them all. -[3019.10 --> 3020.52] See, bigger God theology -[3020.52 --> 3021.36] means we think God -[3021.36 --> 3021.92] can overcome -[3021.92 --> 3023.28] the circumstances we're in, -[3023.42 --> 3024.06] but that's not -[3024.06 --> 3024.82] the God of Scripture. -[3025.22 --> 3025.96] The God of Scripture -[3025.96 --> 3027.04] is a big God -[3027.04 --> 3028.74] and big God theology -[3028.74 --> 3030.28] means we understand -[3030.28 --> 3031.74] that God ordains -[3031.74 --> 3033.12] all of our circumstances -[3033.12 --> 3034.44] and uses them -[3034.44 --> 3035.48] for His glory. -[3036.24 --> 3037.02] Do you see the difference? -[3038.80 --> 3041.00] Many of you have heard -[3041.00 --> 3041.88] this story before, -[3042.06 --> 3043.16] but when I was in grade 12, -[3043.28 --> 3044.66] I was in a school bus accident. -[3045.44 --> 3047.24] We were going down Highway 1 -[3047.24 --> 3048.40] and we rolled into the ditch -[3048.40 --> 3049.64] and spun around a little bit -[3049.64 --> 3051.12] and those buses -[3051.12 --> 3051.84] don't have seat bolts, -[3051.94 --> 3052.42] so it was quite -[3052.42 --> 3053.46] the tumbling situation. -[3054.10 --> 3055.44] I ended up with tissue damage -[3055.44 --> 3056.84] in my back and shoulders -[3056.84 --> 3057.88] and my soccer season -[3057.88 --> 3059.44] ended right then and there -[3059.44 --> 3060.96] and it halted any chance -[3060.96 --> 3061.44] that I had -[3061.44 --> 3062.26] at getting a scholarship -[3062.26 --> 3063.20] for any university -[3063.20 --> 3064.70] that was checking out -[3064.70 --> 3065.32] what I was doing. -[3065.74 --> 3066.48] At the time, -[3066.54 --> 3067.58] I was furious with God. -[3068.80 --> 3069.24] At the time, -[3069.28 --> 3069.56] I was like, -[3069.60 --> 3070.54] God, what are you doing here? -[3071.18 --> 3072.32] How could you let this happen? -[3072.44 --> 3073.06] How are you going to -[3073.06 --> 3073.90] get me through this? -[3076.04 --> 3076.70] But I didn't get -[3076.70 --> 3077.20] any scholarship, -[3077.44 --> 3078.08] so I didn't get to go -[3078.08 --> 3078.80] to a university -[3078.80 --> 3079.70] that was seeking me out. -[3079.90 --> 3080.96] I struggled in Edmonton -[3080.96 --> 3081.82] for a whole gap year -[3081.82 --> 3082.52] because of that -[3082.52 --> 3083.32] and then on a whim, -[3083.42 --> 3084.06] I went to Redeemer -[3084.06 --> 3085.86] where I met my wife, -[3086.50 --> 3087.08] where I got interested -[3087.08 --> 3087.64] in theology, -[3088.36 --> 3088.96] where God started -[3088.96 --> 3090.02] pulling me into youth ministry, -[3090.46 --> 3091.42] where now I have this job -[3091.42 --> 3092.40] and I'm standing before you. -[3092.82 --> 3093.60] That doesn't happen -[3093.60 --> 3094.56] without that bus crash. -[3094.56 --> 3097.72] We don't know -[3097.72 --> 3098.50] what God is doing. -[3102.68 --> 3103.62] Now, I have the gift -[3103.62 --> 3104.18] of retrospect -[3104.18 --> 3105.08] and God has blessed me -[3105.08 --> 3106.00] with that story to tell, -[3106.06 --> 3107.42] but not all of our suffering -[3107.42 --> 3108.84] gets those gifts -[3108.84 --> 3109.84] and I understand that. -[3110.50 --> 3112.82] But can we trust God -[3112.82 --> 3113.82] with what we are going -[3113.82 --> 3114.36] through anyways? -[3114.36 --> 3116.58] Do we have -[3116.58 --> 3118.56] big God theology -[3118.56 --> 3120.84] or just bigger -[3120.84 --> 3122.02] God theology? -[3123.86 --> 3125.00] Romans 8, 28 -[3125.00 --> 3125.58] reminds us, -[3125.66 --> 3126.26] in all things, -[3126.36 --> 3127.12] God works for the good -[3127.12 --> 3127.90] of those who love Him. -[3128.34 --> 3129.26] And James 1 says -[3129.26 --> 3131.44] to consider it pure joy -[3131.44 --> 3132.78] when you face trials -[3132.78 --> 3134.16] because those very trials -[3134.16 --> 3135.44] produce perseverance -[3135.44 --> 3137.58] and maturity in us. -[3137.62 --> 3138.08] In other words, -[3138.34 --> 3139.18] God doesn't just work -[3139.18 --> 3140.64] around the hard times. -[3141.48 --> 3142.70] He's working by -[3142.70 --> 3143.68] the hard times -[3143.68 --> 3144.84] because of them. -[3145.60 --> 3146.12] He's doing that -[3146.12 --> 3147.20] for us and for Him. -[3147.20 --> 3148.86] That's what it means -[3148.86 --> 3150.52] to believe in big God, -[3150.68 --> 3151.46] the kind of God -[3151.46 --> 3152.30] who reigns over -[3152.30 --> 3154.08] both blessings and exile, -[3154.42 --> 3156.08] both comfort and suffering. -[3156.28 --> 3156.88] He is using -[3156.88 --> 3158.80] every single bit of it -[3158.80 --> 3160.14] to shape His people -[3160.14 --> 3161.16] for His glory. -[3161.92 --> 3163.12] And we are to trust -[3163.12 --> 3164.76] and give thanks to Him -[3164.76 --> 3165.72] because we know -[3165.72 --> 3166.92] He loves us -[3166.92 --> 3168.08] more than we'll ever understand. -[3170.00 --> 3171.26] We can thank Him -[3171.26 --> 3172.22] for everything, -[3173.72 --> 3174.74] even the stuff -[3174.74 --> 3175.82] we can't really imagine. -[3177.20 --> 3178.12] like our suffering, -[3179.04 --> 3180.26] like our loneliness, -[3180.52 --> 3181.14] like our grief. -[3181.46 --> 3182.72] Can you believe -[3182.72 --> 3184.14] in a God that big? -[3185.56 --> 3186.94] Can you give thanks -[3186.94 --> 3189.02] to a God that big? -[3193.08 --> 3194.28] So what are we to do? -[3194.96 --> 3195.46] Well, once again, -[3195.52 --> 3198.60] look at verses 5, 6, and 7 -[3198.60 --> 3199.18] with me, -[3199.24 --> 3199.98] and everyone all at once. -[3200.04 --> 3200.78] 6, 7. -[3201.00 --> 3201.92] Ben, don't write that down -[3201.92 --> 3202.50] in your evaluation. -[3202.50 --> 3208.00] Let's look at verses 5 to 7 -[3208.00 --> 3209.20] with me here of our text. -[3210.76 --> 3213.44] Build houses and settle down. -[3214.58 --> 3215.50] Plant gardens -[3215.50 --> 3217.16] and eat what they produce. -[3218.28 --> 3220.50] Marry and have sons and daughters. -[3220.74 --> 3222.26] Find wives for your sons -[3222.26 --> 3223.20] and give your daughters -[3223.20 --> 3223.76] in marriage -[3223.76 --> 3224.92] so that they too -[3224.92 --> 3226.14] may have sons and daughters. -[3226.62 --> 3228.12] Increase in number there. -[3228.48 --> 3229.52] Do not decrease. -[3229.52 --> 3231.76] Also, seek the peace -[3231.76 --> 3233.26] and prosperity of the city -[3233.26 --> 3234.98] because if it prospers, -[3235.34 --> 3236.42] you too will prosper. -[3237.36 --> 3238.66] See, in our text today, -[3239.40 --> 3240.76] God's people were foreigners. -[3240.94 --> 3242.02] They're exiled in Babylon, -[3242.22 --> 3242.74] and yet, -[3243.18 --> 3244.12] they are called -[3244.12 --> 3245.44] to live fully. -[3246.92 --> 3248.36] They were to build houses -[3248.36 --> 3249.54] and plant gardens. -[3250.34 --> 3251.70] They were to marry each other -[3251.70 --> 3252.90] and raise up a family -[3252.90 --> 3253.64] and contribute -[3253.64 --> 3256.00] to the Babylonian society. -[3256.00 --> 3258.54] According to God, -[3258.60 --> 3259.80] they were going to be there a while, -[3260.00 --> 3261.26] and so while they were there, -[3261.34 --> 3262.74] they were to roll up their sleeves, -[3263.16 --> 3264.00] live their life, -[3264.66 --> 3265.42] fill the earth, -[3265.52 --> 3266.38] grow in number, -[3266.46 --> 3267.70] and work for the good of creation -[3267.70 --> 3268.30] and for Babylon. -[3268.58 --> 3269.64] And in many ways, -[3270.56 --> 3272.00] God is calling his people -[3272.00 --> 3272.52] right here -[3272.52 --> 3273.98] back to the very first command -[3273.98 --> 3274.44] and blessing -[3274.44 --> 3274.96] that he gave -[3274.96 --> 3275.80] way back in Genesis. -[3276.58 --> 3278.26] In Genesis 1, verse 28, -[3278.58 --> 3280.30] after he creates male and female -[3280.30 --> 3281.24] in his own image, -[3281.24 --> 3283.20] he says to Adam and Eve this. -[3283.34 --> 3283.56] He says, -[3283.80 --> 3284.84] Be fruitful and multiply -[3284.84 --> 3286.08] and fill the earth -[3286.08 --> 3286.68] and subdue it -[3286.68 --> 3287.64] and have dominion -[3287.64 --> 3288.70] over the fish of the sea -[3288.70 --> 3289.60] and over the birds -[3289.60 --> 3290.18] of the heavens -[3290.18 --> 3291.68] and over every living thing -[3291.68 --> 3292.52] that moves on earth. -[3293.76 --> 3295.64] See, right after creation, -[3295.76 --> 3296.96] God says to Adam and Eve, -[3297.36 --> 3298.40] Be fruitful and multiply. -[3299.80 --> 3300.32] Get married, -[3300.42 --> 3300.88] have kids, -[3301.00 --> 3301.70] plant gardens, -[3301.86 --> 3302.56] have dominion -[3302.56 --> 3303.30] over the earth. -[3304.36 --> 3304.84] Contribute. -[3306.62 --> 3308.28] And the core of this Genesis text -[3308.28 --> 3309.54] is what we Reformed folks -[3309.54 --> 3310.12] like to call -[3310.12 --> 3311.56] the creational mandate. -[3312.74 --> 3314.24] It's about creating -[3314.24 --> 3315.68] and cultivating -[3315.68 --> 3317.32] and ruling over creation -[3317.32 --> 3318.56] under God's authority. -[3318.80 --> 3319.90] Not to abuse it, -[3320.56 --> 3321.62] but to care for it -[3321.62 --> 3323.80] and to cultivate creation -[3323.80 --> 3325.00] and to participate -[3325.00 --> 3325.82] in the culture -[3325.82 --> 3326.80] that we are part of -[3326.80 --> 3327.48] and to reflect -[3327.48 --> 3328.90] God's reign -[3328.90 --> 3330.34] over all things -[3330.34 --> 3331.42] and lives -[3331.42 --> 3332.42] here on earth. -[3334.22 --> 3335.20] Now this pattern -[3335.20 --> 3335.92] actually continues -[3335.92 --> 3336.60] through Genesis. -[3336.80 --> 3337.50] God tells Noah -[3337.50 --> 3338.14] after the flood -[3338.14 --> 3339.54] in Genesis 9, 1 -[3339.54 --> 3340.10] to be fruitful -[3340.10 --> 3340.70] and multiply -[3340.70 --> 3341.94] and fill the earth, -[3341.94 --> 3342.48] calling him -[3342.48 --> 3344.28] to preserve life -[3344.28 --> 3344.90] in this world. -[3345.46 --> 3346.80] Later in Genesis 12 -[3346.80 --> 3347.58] with Abraham, -[3347.92 --> 3348.92] God promises Abraham -[3348.92 --> 3349.78] that his descendants -[3349.78 --> 3350.46] are going to grow -[3350.46 --> 3351.68] and they will be a blessing -[3351.68 --> 3352.86] to all nations. -[3353.24 --> 3353.88] So with Adam, -[3353.98 --> 3354.54] they're to create -[3354.54 --> 3355.34] and have dominion. -[3355.80 --> 3356.38] With Noah, -[3356.50 --> 3357.86] they're to preserve life -[3357.86 --> 3358.74] and enact justice. -[3359.00 --> 3359.88] And with Abraham, -[3360.66 --> 3361.46] they're to be a blessing -[3361.46 --> 3362.48] to all nations. -[3363.82 --> 3365.12] And here with Jeremiah, -[3365.28 --> 3366.16] God is reminding -[3366.16 --> 3367.16] his people -[3367.16 --> 3368.54] that that is still -[3368.54 --> 3369.00] the plan. -[3369.00 --> 3370.94] even with them -[3370.94 --> 3371.54] in exile. -[3372.62 --> 3373.20] And actually, -[3373.34 --> 3374.32] perhaps especially -[3374.32 --> 3375.36] when they're in exile. -[3376.70 --> 3378.20] Because they were displaced, -[3378.52 --> 3379.24] they were to remember -[3379.24 --> 3380.52] who rules over them -[3380.52 --> 3382.16] and what God -[3382.16 --> 3382.84] had called them -[3382.84 --> 3383.80] to do from the beginning, -[3384.60 --> 3386.20] which was settle in, -[3387.02 --> 3387.76] plant gardens, -[3388.22 --> 3389.50] contribute to society, -[3389.74 --> 3390.72] and grow in number. -[3393.70 --> 3395.14] Maybe you're sitting here today -[3395.14 --> 3397.04] and you're asking yourself, -[3397.14 --> 3397.60] okay, so what? -[3397.60 --> 3399.06] What does this have to do -[3399.06 --> 3400.80] with Langley Emanuel CRC -[3400.80 --> 3403.30] on Thanksgiving Sunday 2025? -[3405.70 --> 3406.46] Well, God's word -[3406.46 --> 3407.44] makes it very clear -[3407.44 --> 3409.32] that this has everything -[3409.32 --> 3410.36] to do with us. -[3411.34 --> 3412.66] Because we too, -[3412.96 --> 3414.38] everyone here in this room, -[3415.32 --> 3416.86] are foreigners on this earth. -[3418.58 --> 3419.90] So God's people, -[3420.10 --> 3421.16] right now the church, -[3422.00 --> 3422.40] us, -[3422.56 --> 3423.42] we are citizens -[3423.42 --> 3425.96] of the kingdom of heaven. -[3425.96 --> 3428.72] New Testament -[3428.72 --> 3429.80] gives us lots of examples. -[3429.96 --> 3430.76] Philippians 3, -[3430.90 --> 3432.22] 20 to 21 says, -[3432.22 --> 3433.56] but our citizenship -[3433.56 --> 3434.74] is in heaven -[3434.74 --> 3436.72] and we eagerly await -[3436.72 --> 3437.84] a savior from there, -[3438.08 --> 3438.80] the Lord Jesus, -[3438.98 --> 3439.64] who by the power -[3439.64 --> 3440.40] that enables him -[3440.40 --> 3441.36] to bring everything -[3441.36 --> 3442.24] under his control -[3442.24 --> 3443.36] will transform -[3443.36 --> 3444.28] our lowly bodies -[3444.28 --> 3445.54] so that they will be -[3445.54 --> 3446.90] like his glorious body. -[3447.70 --> 3448.88] As citizens in heaven, -[3449.00 --> 3449.88] we are foreigners here. -[3450.20 --> 3451.62] 1 Peter 2, 11 to 12 says, -[3451.62 --> 3452.22] Dear friends, -[3452.46 --> 3453.22] I urge you, -[3453.60 --> 3455.68] as foreigners and exiles, -[3456.44 --> 3457.98] to abstain from sinful desires -[3457.98 --> 3458.92] which wage war -[3458.92 --> 3459.86] against your soul. -[3460.22 --> 3461.54] Live such good lives -[3461.54 --> 3462.36] among the pagans -[3462.36 --> 3463.78] that they may see -[3463.78 --> 3464.68] your good deeds -[3464.68 --> 3466.46] and glorify God -[3466.46 --> 3468.00] on the day he visits. -[3468.30 --> 3469.26] And then Hebrews 11, -[3469.42 --> 3470.36] 13 to 16, -[3470.70 --> 3471.66] links people, -[3471.80 --> 3472.40] God's people, -[3472.46 --> 3473.68] across all of history -[3473.68 --> 3474.58] and it says, -[3474.86 --> 3475.92] All these people -[3475.92 --> 3477.26] were still living by faith -[3477.26 --> 3477.84] when they died. -[3478.12 --> 3479.10] They did not receive -[3479.10 --> 3480.12] the things they promised, -[3480.12 --> 3481.64] admitting that they were -[3481.64 --> 3483.48] foreigners and strangers -[3483.48 --> 3484.58] on earth. -[3484.98 --> 3485.76] They were longing -[3485.76 --> 3486.80] for a better country, -[3487.10 --> 3487.90] a heavenly one. -[3488.30 --> 3488.62] Therefore, -[3489.20 --> 3491.36] God is not ashamed -[3491.36 --> 3492.52] to be called their God -[3492.52 --> 3494.42] for he has prepared -[3494.42 --> 3495.60] a city for them. -[3497.72 --> 3500.04] Exile is the template -[3500.04 --> 3501.14] for the church. -[3502.50 --> 3504.10] That's our parallel here. -[3505.06 --> 3506.60] We are in exile. -[3506.80 --> 3508.80] We are ambassadors of Christ -[3508.80 --> 3510.92] as 2 Corinthians 5 says. -[3511.16 --> 3512.60] We are living here on earth -[3512.60 --> 3515.24] as citizens of a different kingdom. -[3515.76 --> 3516.66] God's kingdom. -[3517.94 --> 3519.62] So we live in exile, -[3520.52 --> 3522.28] fully present where we are, -[3523.32 --> 3524.96] yet always knowing -[3524.96 --> 3526.24] where our citizenship lies. -[3527.22 --> 3528.60] We're to plant gardens, -[3529.10 --> 3530.62] to fill the world, -[3530.72 --> 3531.36] to subdue it, -[3531.40 --> 3532.14] and to contribute -[3532.14 --> 3533.50] to this culture. -[3533.62 --> 3535.26] We're called to help shape -[3535.26 --> 3536.42] this world -[3536.42 --> 3538.24] that we are foreigners in, -[3538.78 --> 3540.16] to give thanks to God -[3540.16 --> 3541.92] wherever we are -[3541.92 --> 3544.98] as foreigners and exiles -[3544.98 --> 3546.92] in this city. -[3549.12 --> 3550.40] And that kind of tracks -[3550.40 --> 3551.12] a little bit, right? -[3552.06 --> 3552.96] Because our world -[3552.96 --> 3554.32] does kind of seem foreign -[3554.32 --> 3555.66] to us every once in a while, -[3555.74 --> 3556.22] doesn't it? -[3557.70 --> 3559.02] Because I think as Christians, -[3559.42 --> 3562.26] and you can call me on this later -[3562.26 --> 3563.28] if you think I'm wrong, -[3563.28 --> 3564.48] but I think as Christians, -[3564.60 --> 3565.36] we can look around -[3565.36 --> 3566.62] the world that we're in -[3566.62 --> 3567.72] and we can think things like this. -[3567.96 --> 3569.76] This world is far too left for me. -[3570.02 --> 3571.80] Or culture has gone far too right -[3571.80 --> 3572.46] in my opinion. -[3572.80 --> 3573.92] Or maybe we feel things -[3573.92 --> 3575.52] are too liberal nowadays -[3575.52 --> 3576.48] or too conservative -[3576.48 --> 3577.70] or too hostile -[3577.70 --> 3578.94] or maybe too docile. -[3579.56 --> 3580.54] Maybe too distant -[3580.54 --> 3581.30] or too busy -[3581.30 --> 3582.78] or too distracting -[3582.78 --> 3584.56] or maybe too lonely. -[3587.32 --> 3589.46] We can add a whole bunch of words -[3589.46 --> 3590.54] that we would describe -[3590.54 --> 3591.46] our culture with there. -[3593.28 --> 3594.30] Maybe some of that -[3594.30 --> 3595.12] or any of that -[3595.12 --> 3596.04] is true with you -[3596.04 --> 3596.64] where you sit. -[3596.70 --> 3597.62] But here's the thing. -[3598.46 --> 3599.30] Whatever culture -[3599.30 --> 3600.42] is too much of, -[3601.08 --> 3602.06] in your opinion, -[3602.86 --> 3604.38] it's actually not -[3604.38 --> 3605.24] the real problem. -[3607.04 --> 3607.74] See, the problem -[3607.74 --> 3608.82] isn't that our culture -[3608.82 --> 3610.42] fails to match -[3610.42 --> 3611.72] what Scripture describes. -[3613.00 --> 3615.38] It's that we make God small -[3615.38 --> 3617.28] and forget that He knew -[3617.28 --> 3618.86] exactly what our world -[3618.86 --> 3619.40] would become. -[3619.40 --> 3623.70] God is big, right? -[3624.76 --> 3625.60] He's not just bigger -[3625.60 --> 3628.18] than the political tensions -[3628.18 --> 3628.90] of this world -[3628.90 --> 3630.34] or the cultural chaos -[3630.34 --> 3631.46] that we find ourselves in -[3631.46 --> 3632.48] or the cracks -[3632.48 --> 3633.40] in the world systems -[3633.40 --> 3634.56] that we see. -[3637.56 --> 3638.54] He's reigning -[3638.54 --> 3639.28] and ruling -[3639.28 --> 3640.24] over all of it. -[3641.70 --> 3642.86] As foreigners here, -[3642.94 --> 3643.98] we're not here -[3643.98 --> 3645.24] to make our faith -[3645.24 --> 3646.74] fit our politics -[3646.74 --> 3647.88] or our preferences -[3647.88 --> 3649.32] or our echo chambers, -[3649.52 --> 3650.40] but we are here -[3650.40 --> 3651.20] to let Jesus -[3651.20 --> 3652.28] shape the way -[3652.28 --> 3653.08] that we live -[3653.08 --> 3654.18] in all of that. -[3654.70 --> 3656.04] Live within the world -[3656.04 --> 3658.10] for His kingdom purposes. -[3659.66 --> 3661.04] See, the kingdom of God, -[3661.30 --> 3661.96] even though it's not -[3661.96 --> 3662.90] fully here yet, -[3663.00 --> 3664.06] God is still to come. -[3664.68 --> 3666.14] Jesus is still to return again -[3666.14 --> 3666.96] at the end of time. -[3667.74 --> 3669.06] But the kingdom of God, -[3669.18 --> 3669.90] even though it's not -[3669.90 --> 3670.68] fully here yet, -[3670.72 --> 3671.76] is already political. -[3672.56 --> 3672.96] Meaning, -[3673.12 --> 3674.20] it already has a king. -[3675.08 --> 3676.36] It already has a way -[3676.36 --> 3678.68] and it already has a road map. -[3679.60 --> 3680.88] So if we start thinking -[3680.88 --> 3681.80] that the kingdom of God -[3681.80 --> 3682.64] is more liberal -[3682.64 --> 3683.84] or more conservative -[3683.84 --> 3685.36] or more right-leaning -[3685.36 --> 3686.26] or more left-leaning, -[3686.42 --> 3687.50] if we try to squeeze -[3687.50 --> 3688.68] our own personal -[3688.68 --> 3690.02] or national ideologies -[3690.02 --> 3691.00] into God's kingdom, -[3691.40 --> 3692.14] then we don't have -[3692.14 --> 3693.22] a big God anymore. -[3693.56 --> 3695.10] We have a very malleable one. -[3697.16 --> 3698.38] We have a God, -[3698.68 --> 3699.34] small g, -[3699.34 --> 3700.38] who bends -[3700.38 --> 3701.84] to fit our opinions -[3701.84 --> 3703.84] instead of a God -[3703.84 --> 3705.10] who reigns over all things. -[3706.02 --> 3707.98] Even the very culture -[3707.98 --> 3710.18] that we're in right now. -[3712.06 --> 3713.44] Because our God, -[3713.54 --> 3714.46] our big God, -[3714.56 --> 3716.26] reigns over everything. -[3717.18 --> 3718.14] Our politics, -[3718.52 --> 3719.66] our worldviews, -[3720.32 --> 3720.90] our culture. -[3721.48 --> 3722.80] He's not threatened by them. -[3723.62 --> 3725.24] He's not surprised by them. -[3725.92 --> 3727.24] And He's not working -[3727.24 --> 3728.36] despite of them. -[3729.06 --> 3731.42] He rules over them. -[3734.50 --> 3735.88] In the Heidelberg Catechism, -[3735.96 --> 3736.88] which is a confession -[3736.88 --> 3737.50] that this church -[3737.50 --> 3738.94] and Christian Reformed churches -[3738.94 --> 3740.30] confess are true, -[3740.56 --> 3741.68] it asks this question -[3741.68 --> 3742.56] in Lord's Day 10. -[3743.04 --> 3743.56] It asks, -[3743.98 --> 3744.76] why is it good -[3744.76 --> 3745.64] for us to know -[3745.64 --> 3746.46] that God has created -[3746.46 --> 3747.10] all things -[3747.10 --> 3748.42] and still upholds them -[3748.42 --> 3749.22] by His providence? -[3750.28 --> 3751.22] And the answer is beautiful. -[3752.02 --> 3752.88] The answer to question -[3752.88 --> 3754.78] in answer 28, -[3754.88 --> 3755.40] Lord's Day 10, -[3755.46 --> 3755.86] says this. -[3755.86 --> 3757.90] We can be patient -[3757.90 --> 3758.64] in adversity, -[3759.56 --> 3761.02] thankful in prosperity, -[3761.52 --> 3762.36] and with a view -[3762.36 --> 3763.02] to the future, -[3763.14 --> 3764.58] we can have a firm confidence -[3764.58 --> 3765.78] in our faithful God -[3765.78 --> 3766.26] and Father -[3766.26 --> 3767.48] that no creature -[3767.48 --> 3768.50] shall separate us -[3768.50 --> 3770.32] from His love. -[3771.32 --> 3772.30] For all creatures -[3772.30 --> 3773.78] are so completely -[3773.78 --> 3775.20] in His hand -[3775.20 --> 3776.82] that without His will, -[3777.26 --> 3777.80] they cannot -[3777.80 --> 3780.02] so much as move. -[3780.02 --> 3782.78] we can be patient -[3782.78 --> 3784.38] and confident -[3784.38 --> 3785.84] and thankful -[3785.84 --> 3787.28] wherever we are -[3787.28 --> 3788.74] because our God, -[3788.90 --> 3790.14] this big God, -[3790.20 --> 3791.26] is the one ordaining -[3791.26 --> 3792.04] both the good -[3792.04 --> 3793.18] and the bad, -[3793.28 --> 3794.36] the good things we enjoy -[3794.36 --> 3795.68] and the hardships we endure. -[3795.96 --> 3797.76] He is present in both. -[3797.98 --> 3799.56] He is more than present in both. -[3799.76 --> 3801.18] He is ruling over both. -[3801.18 --> 3802.94] He is Lord over both. -[3803.76 --> 3804.50] So again, -[3804.58 --> 3805.80] the question is asked, -[3805.90 --> 3806.72] do you believe -[3806.72 --> 3807.60] in a God -[3807.60 --> 3808.70] who is big enough -[3808.70 --> 3809.30] to do that? -[3810.70 --> 3811.80] A God who is big enough -[3811.80 --> 3812.74] to hold your blessings -[3812.74 --> 3813.46] and your burdens, -[3813.74 --> 3814.36] your comforts -[3814.36 --> 3815.16] and your chaos -[3815.16 --> 3816.28] and be in control -[3816.28 --> 3817.00] the whole time -[3817.00 --> 3818.36] because that's the God -[3818.36 --> 3819.24] that Jeremiah -[3819.24 --> 3820.78] is pointing his people to. -[3825.62 --> 3826.96] And so to help us -[3826.96 --> 3828.74] see the answer -[3828.74 --> 3830.00] as yes to that question, -[3830.40 --> 3831.42] we must look ahead. -[3831.52 --> 3832.10] That's what Jeremiah -[3832.10 --> 3833.14] does in his book too. -[3833.94 --> 3834.82] Our text today, -[3834.90 --> 3836.10] those seven verses we read, -[3836.22 --> 3837.50] is just a little sniff -[3837.50 --> 3839.56] of Jeremiah's overarching point. -[3840.06 --> 3841.38] Later in this letter actually, -[3841.44 --> 3842.90] we get one of the most popular -[3842.90 --> 3844.06] verses in all of Scripture, -[3844.48 --> 3845.34] not just this book, -[3845.54 --> 3847.08] where God says this to his people. -[3847.72 --> 3848.66] You guys can probably -[3848.66 --> 3849.50] recite it with me, -[3849.52 --> 3850.44] at least many of you could. -[3850.50 --> 3852.06] For I know the plans -[3852.06 --> 3852.82] I have for you, -[3852.92 --> 3853.68] declares the Lord. -[3854.02 --> 3855.32] Plans to prosper you -[3855.32 --> 3856.22] and not to harm you. -[3856.52 --> 3857.58] Plans to give you hope -[3857.58 --> 3858.50] and a future. -[3859.06 --> 3860.02] We love this verse -[3860.02 --> 3860.60] as Christians. -[3861.22 --> 3861.92] Jeremiah 29. -[3862.04 --> 3863.36] We love applying this verse -[3863.36 --> 3863.94] to our lives, -[3863.98 --> 3864.34] don't we? -[3864.34 --> 3865.78] We do. -[3865.86 --> 3866.52] We think it has to do -[3866.52 --> 3867.90] with our future job opportunities -[3867.90 --> 3869.02] or potential scholarships -[3869.02 --> 3869.72] we might get -[3869.72 --> 3871.68] or our future relationships maybe -[3871.68 --> 3873.18] or if we're lucky, -[3873.26 --> 3874.94] the next drink we're going to get -[3874.94 --> 3876.34] at the Starbucks down the road -[3876.34 --> 3877.82] because it's pumpkin spice season -[3877.82 --> 3878.38] and we're like, -[3878.44 --> 3879.38] oh, maybe that's in the works -[3879.38 --> 3879.96] for us today. -[3880.22 --> 3881.36] It's street culture time. -[3882.24 --> 3883.38] Those things taste like feet. -[3883.44 --> 3884.30] I think they're so gross. -[3886.44 --> 3887.56] But we do that, right? -[3887.70 --> 3888.34] We do that. -[3889.02 --> 3890.12] We apply this verse -[3890.12 --> 3891.02] to our future. -[3893.14 --> 3894.60] And while we're hearing today -[3894.60 --> 3895.06] that yes, -[3895.16 --> 3896.36] God reigns over everything, -[3897.84 --> 3898.92] this text, -[3900.00 --> 3901.14] Jeremiah 29.11, -[3902.10 --> 3903.30] is not about your job -[3903.30 --> 3904.66] or your scholarships -[3904.66 --> 3905.90] or your relationships -[3905.90 --> 3908.62] or your future cold brews. -[3909.12 --> 3910.02] It is about -[3910.02 --> 3912.12] this specific group -[3912.12 --> 3913.34] of people -[3913.34 --> 3915.22] returning home from exile -[3915.22 --> 3916.14] in Babylon -[3916.14 --> 3918.04] and awaiting the arrival -[3918.04 --> 3918.72] of a Messiah, -[3919.28 --> 3920.42] giving them hope -[3920.42 --> 3921.50] for their future, -[3921.72 --> 3922.50] looking ahead -[3922.50 --> 3925.08] down their story. -[3926.20 --> 3927.32] Israel was to recognize -[3927.32 --> 3928.46] that while they would be -[3928.46 --> 3929.80] in Babylon for a while, -[3930.06 --> 3931.34] while they were to settle in, -[3931.60 --> 3932.64] their future was secure. -[3934.00 --> 3935.54] They would one day return home. -[3935.66 --> 3936.28] They would one day -[3936.28 --> 3937.24] build that temple again -[3937.24 --> 3938.32] and they would one day -[3938.32 --> 3939.20] meet the Messiah. -[3941.24 --> 3942.62] And then that future happened. -[3943.72 --> 3944.48] We read in Ezra -[3944.48 --> 3945.48] that they did return home. -[3946.46 --> 3947.04] We read in Ezra -[3947.04 --> 3947.92] that they did rebuild. -[3948.04 --> 3948.40] The temple. -[3949.38 --> 3950.64] And then 400 years later, -[3950.72 --> 3951.80] their Messiah was born -[3951.80 --> 3953.50] in a manger in Bethlehem. -[3953.58 --> 3954.76] Our Messiah. -[3956.14 --> 3957.72] See, Jesus came down -[3957.72 --> 3958.68] from his throne in heaven. -[3958.80 --> 3960.00] He made himself nothing -[3960.00 --> 3961.76] and became man, -[3961.98 --> 3963.20] fully God and fully man, -[3963.28 --> 3963.94] born in a manger. -[3964.20 --> 3965.92] And he lived a perfect life -[3965.92 --> 3967.18] that you and I fail to live -[3967.18 --> 3968.40] each and every day. -[3970.46 --> 3971.54] And then he died -[3971.54 --> 3974.50] an excruciating death -[3974.50 --> 3976.48] that we all deserved. -[3977.92 --> 3979.70] Bearing the weight of human sin -[3979.70 --> 3980.64] throughout history -[3980.64 --> 3981.32] on his shoulders. -[3981.78 --> 3983.36] Suffering more than we will ever know. -[3985.36 --> 3988.06] Suffering more than we will ever know. -[3989.72 --> 3991.12] Hanging from a piece of wood. -[3994.12 --> 3994.92] He died. -[3994.92 --> 3998.06] And then three days later, -[3998.06 --> 3999.40] he rose again from the dead. -[4002.20 --> 4003.68] Jesus rose from the dead. -[4005.28 --> 4006.32] He ascended to heaven. -[4006.32 --> 4007.68] And now he rules -[4007.68 --> 4009.14] the right hand of God, -[4009.56 --> 4011.06] intermediating on our behalf -[4011.06 --> 4012.76] until he comes again -[4012.76 --> 4013.38] in the future -[4013.38 --> 4014.50] to usher in his kingdom, -[4014.62 --> 4015.50] the new heaven and the new earth -[4015.50 --> 4016.20] once and for all. -[4017.48 --> 4019.58] That will happen. -[4020.32 --> 4021.60] And we, the church, -[4021.72 --> 4023.18] can look ahead to that -[4023.18 --> 4025.72] knowing that our future -[4025.72 --> 4028.00] is secure in Jesus' hands. -[4028.98 --> 4030.22] We live on this side -[4030.22 --> 4030.74] of the cross, -[4030.84 --> 4032.14] on this side of the empty tomb, -[4032.34 --> 4033.62] on this side of the ascension. -[4033.92 --> 4035.00] Our hope is assured. -[4035.52 --> 4036.44] And because of that, -[4036.88 --> 4038.72] we can find joy -[4038.72 --> 4040.64] in our suffering. -[4041.40 --> 4042.66] Not because it's easy, -[4042.90 --> 4044.28] not because pain feels good, -[4044.42 --> 4046.02] but because the word of God, -[4046.02 --> 4048.64] the authority that our life sits on, -[4049.00 --> 4049.70] tells us so, -[4049.82 --> 4051.30] reveals that truth to us. -[4052.00 --> 4054.08] Jesus himself said in Matthew 5, -[4054.46 --> 4055.24] blessed are you -[4055.24 --> 4056.52] when others persecute you. -[4057.38 --> 4058.52] James reminds us -[4058.52 --> 4060.00] in James 1, 2-4 -[4060.00 --> 4061.66] to consider it pure joy -[4061.66 --> 4063.00] when we face trials. -[4064.12 --> 4064.80] Paul says that -[4064.80 --> 4066.22] when we suffer with Christ, -[4066.42 --> 4068.30] we'll also be glorified with him -[4068.30 --> 4068.98] in Romans 8. -[4069.30 --> 4070.20] And Peter tells us -[4070.20 --> 4071.42] not to be surprised -[4071.42 --> 4072.44] by the fiery trials -[4072.44 --> 4073.10] that come our way. -[4073.10 --> 4074.20] They're evidence -[4074.20 --> 4077.06] that we belong to Christ. -[4077.76 --> 4079.30] That we belong to him. -[4081.06 --> 4082.24] See, the joy of suffering -[4082.24 --> 4083.04] is not the pain -[4083.04 --> 4083.86] that we are going through. -[4083.94 --> 4085.14] It's in what it points to. -[4085.56 --> 4086.50] Suffering is a marker -[4086.50 --> 4089.68] of union with our Lord -[4089.68 --> 4090.96] and Savior Jesus Christ. -[4091.06 --> 4091.44] And church, -[4091.66 --> 4092.84] there is nothing better -[4092.84 --> 4093.54] in this world -[4093.54 --> 4096.08] than being united with Christ. -[4097.32 --> 4098.38] Even in hardship, -[4099.86 --> 4100.90] even when we suffer, -[4102.10 --> 4102.84] or we mourn, -[4102.88 --> 4103.52] or we struggle, -[4103.68 --> 4105.58] we are united with him, -[4105.92 --> 4107.80] our suffering Savior. -[4110.24 --> 4111.08] So yes, -[4111.74 --> 4113.40] on this Thanksgiving Sunday, -[4113.40 --> 4114.82] let's thank God. -[4114.82 --> 4116.34] Let's thank our big God. -[4116.68 --> 4117.60] Not just for the good -[4117.60 --> 4118.32] and lovely gifts, -[4118.40 --> 4119.32] though we can thank him -[4119.32 --> 4120.06] and should thank him -[4120.06 --> 4120.70] for those too, -[4122.26 --> 4123.20] but for the joys -[4123.20 --> 4124.24] that he brings us -[4124.24 --> 4125.38] even through the suffering -[4125.38 --> 4126.74] that he's ordained for us. -[4126.86 --> 4128.32] Because in that suffering, -[4128.64 --> 4130.82] we find his presence. -[4131.96 --> 4133.68] We find his power. -[4134.56 --> 4136.16] We find his promises. -[4137.68 --> 4138.24] Paul tells us -[4138.24 --> 4139.40] in 1 Thessalonians 5, -[4139.40 --> 4140.64] 16 to 18, -[4140.64 --> 4141.78] that we are to rejoice -[4141.78 --> 4142.92] always. -[4143.86 --> 4144.82] We're to pray -[4144.82 --> 4145.68] without ceasing. -[4146.62 --> 4148.14] And we are to give thanks -[4148.14 --> 4149.94] in all circumstances, -[4150.16 --> 4151.00] not just the good ones, -[4151.86 --> 4153.08] for this is God's will -[4153.08 --> 4155.02] for us in Christ Jesus. -[4155.28 --> 4156.10] So that's what we do. -[4156.78 --> 4158.34] We rejoice always, -[4158.46 --> 4159.56] no matter our situation. -[4160.08 --> 4161.52] We pray in the good -[4161.52 --> 4162.26] and the bad. -[4162.34 --> 4163.00] We give thanks -[4163.00 --> 4164.26] in all circumstances, -[4164.68 --> 4165.70] even in our exile, -[4166.02 --> 4166.90] even in our suffering. -[4166.90 --> 4169.82] And we settle in -[4169.82 --> 4170.84] to this world, -[4170.98 --> 4172.08] this foreign world -[4172.08 --> 4173.30] that we find ourselves in. -[4173.32 --> 4174.56] And we roll up our sleeves. -[4174.86 --> 4175.92] We get our hands dirty. -[4176.04 --> 4177.10] We plant gardens. -[4177.24 --> 4177.94] We raise families. -[4178.08 --> 4178.92] We bless our communities. -[4179.16 --> 4179.84] We contribute -[4179.84 --> 4180.90] to the culture -[4180.90 --> 4182.48] that we find ourselves in. -[4182.60 --> 4183.82] And we live with purpose -[4183.82 --> 4184.54] right here -[4184.54 --> 4186.30] where God has placed us. -[4186.44 --> 4187.38] And through it all, -[4188.14 --> 4189.52] we follow God -[4189.52 --> 4191.22] and remember who he is. -[4192.32 --> 4193.32] He's bigger than you -[4193.32 --> 4194.50] could ever imagine him to be. -[4194.50 --> 4197.34] And he's ruling over everything, -[4197.48 --> 4198.10] even the things -[4198.10 --> 4198.82] you don't understand. -[4200.20 --> 4201.06] And he's at work -[4201.06 --> 4202.46] in places you've never expected, -[4202.66 --> 4203.34] even here, -[4203.84 --> 4204.48] even now. -[4205.22 --> 4206.40] So let's give thanks to him -[4206.40 --> 4207.56] no matter where we are. -[4207.66 --> 4207.88] Amen? -[4208.84 --> 4209.78] Let's pray together. -[4209.88 --> 4210.60] In a moment, actually, -[4210.64 --> 4211.38] we're going to take part -[4211.38 --> 4212.78] in the Lord's Supper together, -[4212.88 --> 4213.74] which is a meal -[4213.74 --> 4215.50] that reminds us -[4215.50 --> 4216.26] of his magnitude -[4216.26 --> 4217.92] and his grace for us all. -[4217.94 --> 4219.60] A meal that he is present with -[4219.60 --> 4220.98] every time we take it. -[4221.46 --> 4222.26] Present with us -[4222.26 --> 4223.14] around this table. -[4223.14 --> 4224.34] Pastor Chris is going to -[4224.34 --> 4225.08] lead us through that. -[4225.34 --> 4226.12] But before we do that, -[4226.30 --> 4227.40] please bow your heads with me. -[4229.74 --> 4230.58] Father in heaven, -[4231.52 --> 4233.04] you are a big God. -[4233.28 --> 4234.22] Not merely bigger -[4234.22 --> 4234.94] than the situations -[4234.94 --> 4236.04] we find ourselves in, -[4236.10 --> 4237.04] but a big God -[4237.04 --> 4239.18] ruling over everything. -[4240.76 --> 4241.86] God, may you -[4241.86 --> 4244.10] somehow shape our minds -[4244.10 --> 4244.62] and our hearts -[4244.62 --> 4246.40] to understand your magnitude. -[4247.88 --> 4249.16] And in that, Lord, -[4249.64 --> 4250.90] on this Thanksgiving day, -[4250.90 --> 4251.70] God, we thank you -[4251.70 --> 4253.12] for everything you have given us. -[4253.72 --> 4255.50] We thank you for people, -[4255.64 --> 4256.26] for community, -[4256.52 --> 4258.98] for the joys of living -[4258.98 --> 4260.18] here in Canada, -[4260.72 --> 4262.40] for all the blessings -[4262.40 --> 4262.94] that we have -[4262.94 --> 4263.68] each and every day. -[4264.64 --> 4266.60] And we thank you -[4266.60 --> 4267.28] for our suffering. -[4268.54 --> 4269.42] And God, you rule -[4269.42 --> 4270.24] over all of that. -[4270.78 --> 4271.68] You know what everybody -[4271.68 --> 4272.38] is going through. -[4272.46 --> 4273.52] You know what is on our hearts. -[4273.98 --> 4275.40] May we be drawn closer to you -[4275.40 --> 4277.40] and be united to you -[4277.40 --> 4278.92] through those times as well. -[4279.88 --> 4281.10] And so this Thanksgiving Sunday, -[4281.22 --> 4281.88] may we be thankful -[4281.88 --> 4282.66] for all of it. -[4283.42 --> 4284.52] May we be thankful for you, -[4284.62 --> 4285.20] for your son, -[4285.30 --> 4286.06] for his life, death, -[4286.10 --> 4286.54] and resurrection, -[4286.84 --> 4287.68] for the grace and mercy -[4287.68 --> 4288.40] that are found -[4288.40 --> 4290.62] in the gospel truth of Jesus. -[4291.64 --> 4292.40] And we thank you -[4292.40 --> 4293.00] for this future -[4293.00 --> 4294.60] that is secure and assured, -[4295.64 --> 4296.62] the hope that we can -[4296.62 --> 4297.46] only find in him. -[4298.44 --> 4299.84] May all of that rest -[4299.84 --> 4300.86] in our hearts today. -[4301.58 --> 4302.50] Thank you, Lord Jesus. -[4302.72 --> 4303.70] We pray this in your name. -[4304.06 --> 4304.28] Amen. -[4304.28 --> 4304.38] Amen. -[4308.92 --> 4314.06] God's word is sure. -[4315.38 --> 4318.12] And the God his word reveals -[4318.12 --> 4319.70] is true. -[4321.88 --> 4324.48] And so even as we have met God -[4324.48 --> 4325.40] in his word, -[4326.14 --> 4327.30] he now invites us -[4327.30 --> 4329.32] to meet him at his table. -[4330.46 --> 4331.92] The grace that was offered -[4331.92 --> 4332.88] in God's word -[4332.88 --> 4334.46] is the grace that is present -[4334.46 --> 4335.94] in this table. -[4335.94 --> 4339.70] God knew that as foreigners -[4339.70 --> 4341.32] and exiles, -[4341.68 --> 4343.52] we would need something -[4343.52 --> 4345.00] to sustain us -[4345.00 --> 4346.18] in this journey of faith. -[4347.20 --> 4348.42] And so he gave us -[4348.42 --> 4349.70] this banquet, -[4350.26 --> 4352.14] not only as a reminder -[4352.14 --> 4353.72] of his ultimate victory, -[4354.08 --> 4356.44] but as a sure sign -[4356.44 --> 4358.46] of his presence with us. -[4359.40 --> 4361.78] This is the feast table -[4361.78 --> 4363.02] of the king. -[4363.02 --> 4365.42] And so we come to him -[4365.42 --> 4367.10] as his people, -[4367.30 --> 4368.24] as strangers -[4368.24 --> 4369.70] and exiles, -[4369.86 --> 4370.84] we come to him -[4370.84 --> 4372.20] to be nourished -[4372.20 --> 4373.42] by his word -[4373.42 --> 4374.78] and by his spirit -[4374.78 --> 4376.30] that together -[4376.30 --> 4377.16] we might taste -[4377.16 --> 4377.74] and see -[4377.74 --> 4378.92] that the Lord is good. -[4379.66 --> 4380.54] So I invite you -[4380.54 --> 4382.78] to come to the table -[4382.78 --> 4384.18] of our Lord -[4384.18 --> 4385.30] to speak the liturgy -[4385.30 --> 4386.54] that we walk through -[4386.54 --> 4387.16] and to, -[4387.58 --> 4388.50] in this moment, -[4388.92 --> 4390.94] meet your God. -[4390.94 --> 4392.72] congregation -[4392.72 --> 4394.28] of the Lord Jesus Christ, -[4394.78 --> 4397.04] lift up your hearts. -[4399.88 --> 4401.22] Let us give thanks -[4401.22 --> 4402.58] to the Lord our God. -[4403.26 --> 4404.64] It is time for us -[4404.64 --> 4405.54] to give thanks. -[4406.00 --> 4406.84] Let's pray together. -[4406.84 --> 4409.54] With joy, -[4409.78 --> 4411.12] we praise you, -[4411.48 --> 4412.58] gracious God. -[4413.52 --> 4414.58] For you have created -[4414.58 --> 4415.66] heaven and earth. -[4415.76 --> 4416.42] You have made us -[4416.42 --> 4417.06] in your image. -[4417.42 --> 4418.42] You have kept covenant -[4418.42 --> 4419.04] with us -[4419.04 --> 4420.44] even when we fell -[4420.44 --> 4421.04] into sin. -[4421.90 --> 4423.18] We give you thanks -[4423.18 --> 4424.26] for Jesus Christ -[4424.26 --> 4425.28] who by his life, -[4425.70 --> 4425.92] death, -[4426.10 --> 4426.72] and resurrection -[4426.72 --> 4428.14] opened to us -[4428.14 --> 4428.84] the way -[4428.84 --> 4431.32] of everlasting life. -[4432.46 --> 4433.78] Meet us here, -[4434.26 --> 4434.72] we pray, -[4434.72 --> 4435.82] in Jesus' name. -[4436.60 --> 4436.88] Amen. -[4440.70 --> 4441.92] Now our Lord Jesus, -[4442.30 --> 4443.76] before he suffered, -[4444.10 --> 4444.96] gave us -[4444.96 --> 4446.26] this memorial -[4446.26 --> 4447.68] of his sacrifice -[4447.68 --> 4449.12] until he comes again. -[4450.22 --> 4450.96] And the Lord Jesus, -[4451.22 --> 4451.82] on the night -[4451.82 --> 4453.54] that he was betrayed, -[4453.80 --> 4454.36] took bread. -[4454.70 --> 4455.98] And when he had given thanks, -[4456.16 --> 4457.22] he broke it -[4457.22 --> 4457.82] and said, -[4458.16 --> 4459.34] this is my body -[4459.34 --> 4460.42] which is for you. -[4461.02 --> 4461.78] Do this -[4461.78 --> 4462.62] in remembrance -[4462.62 --> 4463.46] of me. -[4464.72 --> 4465.86] And in the same way, -[4466.38 --> 4467.14] he took the cup -[4467.14 --> 4468.34] after supper, -[4468.78 --> 4469.04] saying, -[4469.16 --> 4469.78] this cup -[4469.78 --> 4471.06] is the new covenant -[4471.06 --> 4472.42] in my blood. -[4473.14 --> 4473.80] Do this -[4473.80 --> 4475.24] whenever you drink it -[4475.24 --> 4476.32] in remembrance -[4476.32 --> 4477.52] of me. -[4478.08 --> 4478.68] For whenever -[4478.68 --> 4479.90] you eat this bread -[4479.90 --> 4480.72] and drink -[4480.72 --> 4481.60] this cup, -[4481.80 --> 4482.70] you proclaim -[4482.70 --> 4483.78] the Lord's death -[4483.78 --> 4485.92] until he comes again. -[4486.70 --> 4488.68] This is the mystery -[4488.68 --> 4490.70] of our faith. -[4490.70 --> 4492.84] your death, -[4493.02 --> 4493.54] O Christ, -[4493.68 --> 4494.36] we proclaim. -[4494.90 --> 4496.10] Your resurrection -[4496.10 --> 4497.02] we affirm -[4497.02 --> 4497.74] with joy. -[4498.42 --> 4499.16] Your coming -[4499.16 --> 4499.92] we await -[4499.92 --> 4500.54] with hope. -[4501.38 --> 4502.70] Glory be to you, -[4502.86 --> 4503.46] Lord Jesus. -[4505.36 --> 4506.36] Church family, -[4506.76 --> 4508.22] the Lord has prepared -[4508.22 --> 4509.04] his table -[4509.04 --> 4509.76] for all -[4509.76 --> 4510.86] who love him -[4510.86 --> 4512.00] and who trust in him -[4512.00 --> 4512.56] alone -[4512.56 --> 4513.82] for their salvation. -[4513.82 --> 4515.80] And so, -[4516.04 --> 4517.64] come to this table, -[4518.08 --> 4519.00] you who have -[4519.00 --> 4519.88] much faith -[4519.88 --> 4521.14] and you -[4521.14 --> 4522.34] who would have -[4522.34 --> 4522.64] more. -[4524.28 --> 4525.08] Come to -[4525.08 --> 4526.70] this table, -[4527.02 --> 4527.60] you who have -[4527.60 --> 4528.32] been to this -[4528.32 --> 4529.32] sacrament often -[4529.32 --> 4530.36] and you who have -[4530.36 --> 4531.28] not been for -[4531.28 --> 4532.12] a long time. -[4533.02 --> 4534.08] Come to this table, -[4534.26 --> 4534.80] you who have -[4534.80 --> 4535.82] tried to follow -[4535.82 --> 4536.26] Jesus -[4536.26 --> 4537.48] and -[4537.48 --> 4539.52] we who have -[4539.52 --> 4539.88] failed. -[4539.88 --> 4542.58] come to this -[4542.58 --> 4543.00] table -[4543.00 --> 4544.70] because Jesus -[4544.70 --> 4545.36] Christ -[4545.36 --> 4546.48] is -[4546.48 --> 4547.52] raised -[4547.52 --> 4548.64] and he speaks -[4548.64 --> 4549.32] to your heart -[4549.32 --> 4550.40] now and says -[4550.40 --> 4551.32] come. -[4552.54 --> 4553.06] These are the -[4553.06 --> 4553.80] gifts of God -[4553.80 --> 4555.04] for the people -[4555.04 --> 4556.00] of God. -[4557.50 --> 4558.56] As we come -[4558.56 --> 4559.24] to this table -[4559.24 --> 4560.14] together, -[4560.58 --> 4561.14] it is our -[4561.14 --> 4561.96] practice here -[4561.96 --> 4563.32] to come forward -[4563.32 --> 4564.12] in groups -[4564.12 --> 4564.76] and we will -[4564.76 --> 4565.42] make a -[4565.42 --> 4566.62] small circle -[4566.62 --> 4567.58] around the -[4567.58 --> 4567.96] table -[4567.96 --> 4569.44] and we -[4569.44 --> 4569.68] will -[4569.68 --> 4570.58] pass the -[4570.58 --> 4571.12] elements -[4571.12 --> 4571.68] serving -[4571.68 --> 4572.38] each other. -[4572.98 --> 4573.24] And so, -[4573.34 --> 4573.68] when you -[4573.68 --> 4574.44] pass the -[4574.44 --> 4574.80] bread -[4574.80 --> 4575.22] to the -[4575.22 --> 4575.48] person -[4575.48 --> 4575.82] beside -[4575.82 --> 4576.16] you, -[4576.28 --> 4576.40] we -[4576.40 --> 4576.78] invite -[4576.78 --> 4576.94] you -[4576.94 --> 4577.14] to -[4577.14 --> 4577.46] say -[4577.46 --> 4577.94] the -[4577.94 --> 4578.24] body -[4578.24 --> 4578.44] of -[4578.44 --> 4578.78] Christ -[4578.78 --> 4579.10] given -[4579.10 --> 4579.32] for -[4579.32 --> 4579.50] you. -[4579.90 --> 4580.22] When you -[4580.22 --> 4580.70] pass the -[4580.70 --> 4581.02] juice -[4581.02 --> 4581.70] to the -[4581.70 --> 4581.98] person -[4581.98 --> 4582.42] beside -[4582.42 --> 4582.62] you, -[4582.72 --> 4582.82] we -[4582.82 --> 4583.10] invite -[4583.10 --> 4583.28] you -[4583.28 --> 4583.46] to -[4583.46 --> 4583.70] say -[4583.70 --> 4583.94] the -[4583.94 --> 4584.16] blood -[4584.16 --> 4584.34] of -[4584.34 --> 4584.72] Christ -[4584.72 --> 4585.20] shed -[4585.20 --> 4585.36] for -[4585.36 --> 4585.56] you. -[4586.28 --> 4586.46] We -[4586.46 --> 4586.68] have -[4586.68 --> 4587.16] elders -[4587.16 --> 4587.40] who -[4587.40 --> 4587.52] will -[4587.52 --> 4587.66] be -[4587.66 --> 4587.86] up -[4587.86 --> 4588.12] here -[4588.12 --> 4588.50] helping -[4588.50 --> 4588.76] us -[4588.76 --> 4589.02] serve -[4589.02 --> 4589.22] and -[4589.22 --> 4589.34] we -[4589.34 --> 4589.48] have -[4589.48 --> 4589.70] other -[4589.70 --> 4590.02] elders -[4590.02 --> 4590.26] who -[4590.26 --> 4590.46] will -[4590.46 --> 4590.84] usher -[4590.84 --> 4590.98] and -[4590.98 --> 4591.46] indicate -[4591.46 --> 4591.80] when -[4591.80 --> 4591.98] it's -[4597.96 --> 4598.68] in -[4598.68 --> 4598.88] your -[4598.88 --> 4599.12] row -[4599.12 --> 4599.34] there -[4599.34 --> 4599.68] know -[4599.68 --> 4599.94] and -[4599.94 --> 4600.08] they -[4600.08 --> 4600.24] will -[4600.24 --> 4600.56] serve -[4600.56 --> 4600.80] you -[4600.80 --> 4601.28] in -[4601.28 --> 4601.46] your -[4601.46 --> 4601.82] seat -[4601.82 --> 4602.06] where -[4602.06 --> 4602.24] you -[4602.24 --> 4602.40] are -[4602.40 --> 4602.60] at -[4602.60 --> 4602.86] using -[4602.86 --> 4603.10] the -[4603.10 --> 4603.30] same -[4603.30 --> 4603.66] words. -[4604.32 --> 4604.78] If -[4604.78 --> 4604.90] you -[4604.90 --> 4605.04] would -[4605.04 --> 4605.36] like -[4605.36 --> 4606.16] gluten -[4606.16 --> 4606.52] free -[4606.52 --> 4606.90] bread -[4606.90 --> 4607.32] that -[4607.32 --> 4607.48] is -[4607.48 --> 4607.64] in -[4607.64 --> 4607.84] the -[4607.84 --> 4608.14] little -[4608.14 --> 4608.50] cups -[4608.50 --> 4608.76] in -[4608.76 --> 4608.90] the -[4608.90 --> 4609.20] center -[4609.20 --> 4610.14] and -[4610.14 --> 4610.30] so -[4610.30 --> 4610.44] you -[4610.44 --> 4610.58] can -[4610.58 --> 4610.84] take -[4610.84 --> 4611.08] from -[4611.08 --> 4611.42] there -[4611.42 --> 4612.04] as -[4612.04 --> 4612.26] well. -[4612.82 --> 4613.32] We're -[4613.32 --> 4613.40] going -[4613.40 --> 4613.54] to -[4613.54 --> 4613.86] serve -[4613.86 --> 4614.08] the -[4614.08 --> 4614.40] first -[4614.40 --> 4614.78] table -[4614.78 --> 4615.06] to -[4615.06 --> 4615.26] our -[4615.26 --> 4615.60] worship -[4615.60 --> 4615.98] leaders -[4615.98 --> 4616.20] and -[4616.20 --> 4616.32] the -[4616.32 --> 4616.62] elders -[4616.62 --> 4616.84] who -[4616.84 --> 4616.98] are -[4616.98 --> 4617.14] going -[4617.14 --> 4617.28] to -[4617.28 --> 4617.54] serve -[4617.54 --> 4617.76] so -[4617.76 --> 4617.90] that -[4617.90 --> 4618.02] they -[4618.02 --> 4618.24] might -[4618.24 --> 4618.50] help -[4618.50 --> 4618.80] us -[4618.80 --> 4619.90] sing -[4619.90 --> 4620.46] through -[4627.96 --> 4628.14] up -[4628.14 --> 4628.30] to -[4628.30 --> 4628.44] the -[4628.44 --> 4628.68] front -[4628.68 --> 4629.56] that -[4629.56 --> 4629.70] they -[4629.70 --> 4629.94] might -[4629.94 --> 4630.30] stand -[4630.30 --> 4630.58] around -[4630.58 --> 4630.78] the -[4630.78 --> 4631.06] table -[4631.06 --> 4631.38] and -[4631.38 --> 4631.82] receive -[4631.82 --> 4632.18] the -[4632.18 --> 4632.44] supper. -[4633.40 --> 4633.88] If -[4633.88 --> 4634.34] as -[4634.34 --> 4634.54] we -[4634.54 --> 4634.68] are -[4634.68 --> 4634.94] going -[4634.94 --> 4635.28] through -[4635.28 --> 4635.64] this -[4635.64 --> 4636.04] service -[4636.04 --> 4636.46] together -[4636.46 --> 4636.74] you -[4636.74 --> 4636.88] would -[4636.88 --> 4637.08] like -[4637.08 --> 4637.26] to -[4637.26 --> 4637.46] meet -[4637.46 --> 4637.82] someone -[4637.82 --> 4638.08] for -[4638.08 --> 4638.46] prayer -[4638.46 --> 4638.96] there -[4638.96 --> 4639.14] will -[4639.14 --> 4639.34] be -[4639.34 --> 4639.72] others -[4639.72 --> 4639.96] in -[4639.96 --> 4640.06] the -[4640.06 --> 4640.36] back -[4640.36 --> 4640.60] in -[4640.60 --> 4640.74] the -[4640.74 --> 4641.08] foyer -[4641.08 --> 4641.58] with -[4641.58 --> 4642.08] yellow -[4642.08 --> 4642.38] name -[4642.38 --> 4642.70] tags -[4642.70 --> 4642.98] on -[4642.98 --> 4643.12] they -[4643.12 --> 4643.24] would -[4643.24 --> 4643.40] love -[4643.40 --> 4643.56] to -[4643.56 --> 4643.78] meet -[4643.78 --> 4644.02] you -[4644.02 --> 4644.60] and -[4644.60 --> 4644.84] pray -[4644.84 --> 4645.08] with -[4645.08 --> 4645.24] you -[4645.24 --> 4645.26] you -[4645.26 --> 4645.38] you -[4645.38 --> 4645.52] can -[4645.52 --> 4645.66] do -[4645.66 --> 4645.90] that -[4645.90 --> 4646.64] before -[4646.64 --> 4647.00] coming -[4647.00 --> 4647.18] to -[4647.18 --> 4647.32] the -[4647.32 --> 4647.60] table -[4647.60 --> 4647.98] after -[4647.98 --> 4648.28] coming -[4648.28 --> 4648.44] to -[4648.44 --> 4648.58] the -[4648.58 --> 4648.84] table -[4648.84 --> 4649.16] or -[4649.16 --> 4649.64] in -[4649.64 --> 4649.86] lieu -[4649.86 --> 4650.06] of -[4650.06 --> 4650.32] coming -[4650.32 --> 4650.52] to -[4650.52 --> 4650.66] the -[4650.66 --> 4650.98] table -[4650.98 --> 4657.76] close -[4657.76 --> 4657.94] the -[4657.94 --> 4658.16] gap -[4658.16 --> 4658.64] beautiful -[4658.64 --> 4663.82] body -[4663.82 --> 4663.98] of -[4663.98 --> 4664.22] Christ -[4664.22 --> 4664.46] given -[4664.46 --> 4664.66] for -[4664.66 --> 4664.86] you -[4664.86 --> 4668.50] body -[4668.50 --> 4668.66] of -[4668.66 --> 4668.90] Christ -[4668.90 --> 4669.14] given -[4669.14 --> 4669.36] for -[4669.36 --> 4669.52] you -[4679.16 --> 4680.44] h -[4680.44 --> 4680.58] to -[4680.58 --> 4681.18] die -[4681.18 --> 4711.16] Thank you. -[4711.18 --> 4712.28] And remember, -[4729.28 --> 4730.96] the blood of Christ shed for you. -[4737.44 --> 4738.94] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[4741.18 --> 4771.16] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[4771.18 --> 4773.18] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[4783.18 --> 4785.92] Drink and believe. -[4785.92 --> 4787.92] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[4815.92 --> 4817.92] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[4821.92 --> 4823.12] Welcome to the table. -[4845.92 --> 4863.92] The mystery of the cross I cannot comprehend. -[4863.92 --> 4868.92] The egg and ease of Calvary. -[4868.92 --> 4870.92] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[4870.92 --> 4874.92] You, the perfect holy one. -[4874.92 --> 4875.46] You, the perfect holy one. -[4875.92 --> 4878.30] Crush your son. -[4878.92 --> 4883.92] And drank a bitter cup reserved for me. -[4883.92 --> 4886.92] Your blood of Christ shed for you. -[4886.92 --> 4889.92] Your blood has washed away my sin. -[4889.92 --> 4892.92] Jesus, thank you. -[4892.92 --> 4896.92] Father's breath completely satisfied. -[4898.92 --> 4899.92] Jesus, thank you. -[4899.92 --> 4912.92] Once your enemy, now seated at your table, Jesus, thank you. -[4912.92 --> 4914.92] Amen. -[4942.92 --> 4944.92] Amen. -[4972.92 --> 4974.92] Amen. -[5002.92 --> 5004.92] Amen. -[5032.92 --> 5034.92] Amen. -[5062.92 --> 5064.92] Amen. -[5092.92 --> 5094.92] Amen. -[5122.92 --> 5124.92] Amen. -[5152.92 --> 5154.92] Amen. -[5182.92 --> 5184.92] Amen. -[5184.92 --> 5186.92] Amen. -[5212.92 --> 5214.92] Amen. -[5242.92 --> 5244.92] Amen. -[5272.92 --> 5274.92] Amen. -[5302.92 --> 5304.92] Amen. -[5332.92 --> 5335.92] Amen. -[5338.08 --> 5339.92] Amen. -[5344.96 --> 5346.54] Amen. -[5353.62 --> 5353.72] Amen. -[5361.02 --> 5362.12] Amen. -[5362.92 --> 5373.52] its -[5385.52 --> 5389.52] oh -[5392.92 --> 5404.92] All who gather near by grace the near and bless your name. -[5404.92 --> 5418.92] Will I survey the wondrous cross? -[5422.92 --> 5424.92] Amen. -[5452.92 --> 5462.92] The Redeemer, Jesus, God's own Son. -[5462.92 --> 5474.92] Precious Lamb of God, Messiah, Holy One. -[5474.92 --> 5486.92] Thank you, O my Father, for giving us your Son. -[5486.92 --> 5499.92] And leading your Spirit to the work on earth is done. -[5499.92 --> 5515.92] Jesus, my Redeemer, Name above all names. -[5515.92 --> 5527.92] Precious Lamb of God, Messiah, All who sinners save. -[5527.92 --> 5539.92] Thank you, O my Father, for giving us your Son. -[5539.92 --> 5551.92] And leading your Spirit to the work on earth is done. -[5551.92 --> 5564.92] When I stand in glory, I will see His face. -[5564.92 --> 5576.92] There I'll serve my King forever in that holy place. -[5576.92 --> 5588.92] Thank you, O my Father, for giving us your Son. -[5588.92 --> 5600.92] And leading your Spirit to the work on earth is done. -[5600.92 --> 5612.92] Thank you, O my Father, for giving us your Son. -[5612.92 --> 5626.92] And leading your Spirit till the work on earth is done. -[5626.92 --> 5642.92] Thank you, O my Father, for giving us your Son. -[5642.92 --> 5648.92] Thank you for saving me. -[5648.92 --> 5652.92] What can I say? -[5652.92 --> 5654.92] What can I say? -[5654.92 --> 5660.92] You are my everything. -[5660.92 --> 5666.92] I will save your praise. -[5666.92 --> 5672.92] You shed your blood for me. -[5672.92 --> 5674.92] What can I say? -[5674.92 --> 5676.92] What can I say? -[5676.92 --> 5682.92] You took my sin and shame. -[5682.92 --> 5688.92] A sinner called by name. -[5688.92 --> 5704.92] Praise is the Lord. -[5704.92 --> 5711.92] Praise is the Lord. -[5711.92 --> 5715.92] Praise is the Lord. -[5715.92 --> 5727.92] Father, for we know your truth has set us free. -[5727.92 --> 5732.92] For we know your truth has set us free. -[5732.92 --> 5737.92] For we know your truth has set us free. -[5737.92 --> 5739.92] me -[5739.92 --> 5749.74] mercy and grace -[5749.74 --> 5751.54] are mine -[5751.54 --> 5754.32] forgiven is -[5754.32 --> 5756.82] my sin -[5756.82 --> 5759.44] Jesus -[5759.44 --> 5762.22] my only -[5762.22 --> 5763.62] hope -[5763.62 --> 5766.68] the Savior of -[5766.68 --> 5769.18] the world -[5769.18 --> 5772.46] great is -[5772.46 --> 5774.40] the Lord -[5774.40 --> 5776.28] we cry -[5776.28 --> 5777.82] let your -[5777.82 --> 5779.12] kingdom -[5779.12 --> 5781.50] know -[5781.50 --> 5783.62] your -[5783.62 --> 5785.56] word has -[5785.56 --> 5787.46] set me -[5787.46 --> 5788.62] deep -[5788.62 --> 5790.12] and heal for -[5790.12 --> 5792.50] saving me -[5796.68 --> 5802.46] great is -[5802.46 --> 5806.46] the Lord -[5806.46 --> 5813.46] great is -[5813.46 --> 5817.46] the Lord -[5817.46 --> 5821.52] for we know -[5821.52 --> 5823.06] your truth -[5823.06 --> 5826.12] has set -[5826.12 --> 5829.18] us free -[5829.18 --> 5835.52] you've set -[5835.52 --> 5837.24] your hope -[5837.24 --> 5839.24] free -[5839.24 --> 5840.64] me -[5840.64 --> 5848.52] thank you -[5848.52 --> 5850.84] for saving -[5850.84 --> 5852.38] me -[5852.38 --> 5855.62] what can -[5855.62 --> 5857.56] I say -[5857.56 --> 5868.20] europé -[5868.20 --> 5869.80] you -[5869.80 --> 5872.02] you -[5872.02 --> 5875.90] you -[5875.90 --> 5878.16] you -[5878.16 --> 5880.16] you -[5880.16 --> 5909.16] Above all power, above all key, above all nature and all created things. -[5910.16 --> 5923.16] Above all wisdom and all the ways of men, you were here before the world began. -[5924.16 --> 5937.16] Above all kingdoms, above all the pros, above all wonders the world would never know. -[5937.16 --> 5951.16] Above all wisdom and the treasures of the earth, there's no place that you want your world. -[5951.16 --> 5967.16] You crucified, lay behind the stone, you lived to die, rejected and alone by the rose. -[5967.16 --> 5974.16] Trampled on the ground, it's worth the fall. -[5974.16 --> 5992.16] Above all wisdom and the world, above all wisdom and all created things. -[5992.16 --> 6001.16] Above all kings, above all nature and all created things. -[6001.16 --> 6014.16] Above all wisdom and all the ways of men, you were here before the world began. -[6014.16 --> 6028.16] Above all kingdoms, above all thrones, above all wonders the world was never known. -[6028.16 --> 6042.16] Above all worlds, above all worlds and treasures of the earth, there's no way to measure what you're worth. -[6042.16 --> 6044.16] Above all worlds, above all worlds, above all. -[6044.16 --> 6058.16] You crucified, lay behind the stone, you lived to die, rejected and alone by the rose. -[6058.16 --> 6060.16] You traveled on the ground, you took the fall. -[6060.16 --> 6065.16] You traveled on the ground, you took the fall. -[6065.16 --> 6066.16] You traveled on the ground, you took the fall. -[6066.16 --> 6073.16] You thought of me, you fell on the ground. -[6073.16 --> 6087.16] You crucified, lay behind the stone, you lived to die, rejected and alone by the rose. -[6087.16 --> 6089.16] Trampled on the ground, you took the fall. -[6089.16 --> 6094.16] You took the fall, you took the fall. -[6094.16 --> 6097.16] You took the fall, you took the fall. -[6097.16 --> 6106.16] I am weak, above all. -[6110.16 --> 6115.16] And so as we go from this place on this Thanksgiving Sunday, let's remember two things. -[6115.16 --> 6119.16] We are not going into a world where we are a part of the world. -[6119.16 --> 6120.16] We are foreigners in this world. -[6120.16 --> 6128.16] So let us dig in, settle in, roll up our sleeves and remember where we are citizens from. -[6128.16 --> 6137.16] And may we give thanks this Thanksgiving Day, not just for the blessings that we get, but if we can, vocalize the suffering that we're in. -[6137.16 --> 6144.16] In our hearts, let's surrender that to Jesus too, knowing that we are united with him in even the suffering that we experience today. -[6144.16 --> 6147.16] Please go from this place with this blessing. -[6147.16 --> 6150.16] From number six, the priestly blessing. -[6150.16 --> 6153.16] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[6153.16 --> 6157.16] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[6157.16 --> 6163.16] The Lord turn his face toward you and give you his peace. -[6163.16 --> 6166.16] And all of God's people said, Amen. -[6166.16 --> 6167.16] Amen. -[6167.16 --> 6168.16] Amen. -[6168.16 --> 6169.16] Amen. -[6169.16 --> 6170.16] Amen. -[6170.16 --> 6171.16] Amen. -[6171.16 --> 6173.16] Amen. -[6201.16 --> 6203.16] Amen. -[6231.16 --> 6233.16] Amen. -[6261.16 --> 6263.16] Amen. -[6291.16 --> 6293.16] Amen. -[6321.16 --> 6323.16] Amen. -[6351.16 --> 6353.16] Amen. -[6381.16 --> 6383.16] Amen. -[6411.16 --> 6413.16] Amen. -[6441.16 --> 6443.16] Amen. -[6471.16 --> 6473.16] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, October 13 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, October 13 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a357332bb92cfdd000366a1a1eb2871d4bd7df3f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, October 13 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,96 +0,0 @@ -• German language mentioned -• Japanese language mentioned -• Electromagnetic or electrostatic concept discussed -• Changes to the service schedule or format mentioned -• Announcements and updates from church members (Kim Prins, Heather Vartstra, Kevin) -• Upcoming events: Safe Church training, AED CPR training event, new members class, Heidelberg Catechism reading group, Mexico trip registration -• Mention of chocolate as an enticement for attendees -• Change in hosting teams at current location -• New base being sought for future events -• Call to worship based on Psalm 47 -• Song of praise and thanksgiving to God -• Prayer of gratitude for salvation and forgiveness -• Responsive reading from the Heidelberg Catechism, question 43 -• Christ's death and resurrection -• Sin and forgiveness through Jesus -• Personal relationship with God -• Thanksgiving offerings for ministry and missions -• Support for local food bank and community outreach -• Worship and thanksgiving to God -• Inviting kids to come forward and participate in worship -• Interaction between Allison (deacon) and Hank -• Discussion about a child's dream -• Transition to discussing Joseph's dream -• Upcoming children's worship time and activities -• Prayer for the congregation -• Reflection on the mystery of corporate worship -• Family prayer led by an elder (Clary) -• Discussion of prayer and concerns from the community, including those struggling with doubt -• Prayers for specific individuals and families dealing with loss or health issues -• Requests for wisdom, guidance, and peace in leadership roles and personal relationships -• Acknowledgment of grief and loss within the congregation -• Prayers for world events, including wars and rumors of war -• Thanks for love and faithfulness demonstrated through marriage and community -• Reflection on what it means to be a "peculiar people" and celebrate Thanksgiving differently -• Distinction between genuine Christian approach to thanksgiving and cultural one -• Real thanksgiving starts with God and changes reality -• Prayer as a missional activity of the church -• Paul's personal testimony of conversion from persecutor to follower of Jesus -• The role of mercy in Paul's life and the lives of others -• Why prayer and thanksgiving are important for believers, including to display Christ's patience and to protect those who believe -• Teaching true faith and living it as a responsibility of Christian leaders -• The purpose of prayer is to protect others from falling away from faith and into sin. -• The focus of prayer is on the conversion of people to the truth of the gospel and their understanding of God's work in their lives. -• Prayer should center around protecting those who believe from walking away. -• When engaging with family or friends about matters of life, faith, or politics during Thanksgiving, the goal should be love. -• The command to love is mentioned as the key principle for conversation. -• Paul gives four words for prayer: petition, prayer, intercession, and thanksgiving. -• Each word represents a different aspect of prayer, with specific meanings and uses. -• Be specific in prayer and tell God exactly what you are petitioning for -• Be particular and name who you are praying for -• Be bold when praying, imagining that you are talking to the Lord of the universe -• Give thanksgiving and gratitude to God for what he has already done and will do -• Gratitude pushes out worry and flows from meeting God in his throne room -• Thanksgiving is worship and a Christian reality, our default posture should be one of thanksgiving -• The speaker discusses the difference between genuine gratitude and "nebulous" thanksgiving -• Gratitude is often incomplete when not directed towards a transcendent or right object of worship -• Fleeting feelings of comfort from gratitude arise from temporary things, not eternal -• Appreciation for relationships, health, jobs, etc. can be fragile and lead to disappointment if tied to one's sense of purpose or identity -• God is the only thing that can handle the weight of being a permanent object of worship and source of meaning -• The word "glory" in Hebrew can also mean weight or heavy, but when referring to God, it means glory -• Gratitude to God helps order reality well by properly placing God at the top of existence -• Thanksgiving without God is an improper ordering of reality and a limited understanding of the world -• Right thanksgiving has an ontological impact, allowing us to make sense of the world properly -• The amazing thing about this right understanding of who God is that even though he is wholly other, he came into the world he created to save us through Jesus Christ -• This act by God should blow our minds and help us understand the true nature of God's love for humanity -• God's victory over sin, death, and being raised from the dead -• The ascension of Jesus to the right hand of the Father -• The gospel message of Jesus changing everything about lives -• Praying for all people, including those in authority, to live peaceful and quiet lives in godliness and holiness -• The importance of showing gratitude through peaceful and holy living -• How conversations at Thanksgiving reflect twin truths: God is to be thanked, and gratitude shows up in peaceful and holy lives -• Ways God makes himself known to new generations and people in different settings -• Importance of having hard conversations and seeking truth with love as the goal -• Specific, particular, bold, and grateful prayer for guidance and recognition of God's presence -• Real Thanksgiving starts with God and changes one's reality -• Praying for peace, quietness, godliness, and holiness in homes and hearts -• Prayer to God the Lord of the universe for thanks, praise, and glory -• Gathering in the power of the Holy Spirit -• Participating in liturgy and communal prayer -• Sharing in the sacrament of bread and cup -• Expressing gratitude for creation, covenant, and salvation through Jesus Christ -• Proclaiming faith and sealing it in the sacrament -• Reference to biblical quotes about Jesus as the bread of life -• The importance of serving God before being served -• The need to be fed by Christ in order to follow him -• The table as a symbol of nourishment and spiritual growth -• Invitation to come to Jesus' table for deeper faith, better life, and fairer world -• Conditions for joining the community: sincere repentance and following Jesus -• Invitation to online or in-person participation -• Instructions for participating in a church service -• Passing of bread and juice during communion -• Special accommodations for gluten-free bread and seated participation -• Involvement of worship leaders and serving elders -• Ushers and volunteers assisting with service participation -• Prolonged repetition of a single phrase: "Thank you" -• Gradual increase in repetition frequency \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, October 13 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, October 13 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 5ef774135b92ddc80a4e8e612771a71c3750c546..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, October 13 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1696 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 5.04] German 가지고 -[5.04 --> 9.88] insignificant -[9.88 --> 12.40] Japanese -[12.78 --> 14.66] Japanese -[14.66 --> 19.32] электrostatic -[19.32 --> 26.14] changed -[26.14 --> 56.12] Thank you. -[56.14 --> 86.12] Thank you. -[86.14 --> 88.14] Thank you. -[116.14 --> 118.14] Thank you. -[146.14 --> 148.14] Thank you. -[176.14 --> 178.14] Thank you. -[206.14 --> 208.14] Thank you. -[236.14 --> 238.14] Thank you. -[238.14 --> 240.14] Thank you. -[240.14 --> 242.14] Thank you. -[270.14 --> 272.14] Thank you. -[300.14 --> 302.14] Thank you. -[330.14 --> 332.14] Thank you. -[360.14 --> 362.14] Thank you. -[390.14 --> 392.14] Thank you. -[392.14 --> 394.14] Thank you. -[394.14 --> 396.14] Thank you. -[396.14 --> 398.14] Thank you. -[398.14 --> 400.14] Thank you. -[400.14 --> 401.14] Thank you. -[401.14 --> 403.14] Amen. -[431.14 --> 433.14] Amen. -[461.14 --> 463.14] Amen. -[491.14 --> 493.14] Amen. -[521.14 --> 523.14] Amen. -[551.14 --> 553.14] Amen. -[581.14 --> 583.14] Amen. -[611.14 --> 613.14] Amen. -[641.14 --> 642.14] Amen. -[642.14 --> 643.14] Amen. -[643.14 --> 656.14] Good morning. -[656.14 --> 667.14] Happy Thanksgiving to you all. -[667.14 --> 673.14] Okay, maybe it's happy Thanksgiving for like one of you. -[673.14 --> 675.14] Thanks, Amanda. -[675.14 --> 678.14] Welcome to Emanuel Church. -[678.14 --> 681.14] A special welcome if you are a guest with us this weekend. -[681.14 --> 685.14] If you're a guest because of Thanksgiving, you're visiting family and friends, -[685.14 --> 689.14] we're really excited that you are here today to worship with us. -[689.14 --> 690.14] My name is Chris. -[690.14 --> 695.14] I'm one of the pastors here at Emanuel, and it's my pleasure, along with a few others, -[695.14 --> 697.14] to lead in our shared worship this morning. -[697.14 --> 702.14] Before we begin, we have a couple announcements to make. -[702.14 --> 706.14] And Kim Prins has an announcement that she's going to make. -[706.14 --> 708.14] Yeah. -[708.14 --> 712.14] So we're going to invite Kim to the front as she makes an announcement. -[712.14 --> 715.14] There's a microphone right over there for you. -[719.14 --> 721.14] I've been here for at least 20 minutes. -[721.14 --> 724.14] So, hi, everybody. -[724.14 --> 726.14] We are doing Safe Church. -[726.14 --> 730.14] I'm not part of the Safe Church committee, but I will be running the Safe Church training. -[730.14 --> 733.14] There is two happening. -[733.14 --> 739.14] One is this week, Wednesday, the 16th, and the second is next week, Tuesday, the 22nd. -[739.14 --> 742.14] These are mandatory for every three years. -[742.14 --> 745.14] It's going to be really exciting, very interesting. -[745.14 --> 747.14] There will be chocolate. -[747.14 --> 748.14] Please come. -[748.14 --> 751.14] We'd love to have you. -[751.14 --> 756.14] There you go. -[756.14 --> 757.14] There will be chocolate. -[757.14 --> 760.14] If ever there was an enticement, that's the one. -[760.14 --> 763.14] I'm going to keep running through some announcements. -[763.14 --> 769.14] So, next Saturday, we're running an AED CPR training event here. -[769.14 --> 774.14] If you've signed up for that, just a reminder that that's happening, and that's next Saturday. -[774.14 --> 777.14] If you have any questions, Heather Vartstra is here. -[777.14 --> 782.14] She's at the back, but she'll gladly answer your questions about that. -[783.14 --> 789.14] Additionally, after church today, we're having part two of our new members class. -[789.14 --> 796.14] And so, if you joined us last week for that, I invite you to stick around after church today for part two of that class. -[796.14 --> 799.14] And we will have a light lunch together. -[799.14 --> 803.14] And there is childcare for those of you who are sticking around for that. -[803.14 --> 812.14] And then, next Sunday evening at 7 p.m., we're starting a Heidelberg Catechism reading group. -[812.14 --> 816.14] And this is a sort of adult education kind of opportunity. -[816.14 --> 817.14] We're going to come together. -[817.14 --> 825.14] We're going to read the first, I don't know, seven or eight Lord's Days, and then just have a conversation about what it means, what comes up, what it means, what it means. -[825.14 --> 830.14] What comes up, what we're moved to and stirred by in that. -[830.14 --> 834.14] That happens during HCBC for the youth. -[834.14 --> 842.14] And so, if you drop a kid off for HCBC for the youth, you might as well stick around and participate in the group that we're running here for that. -[842.14 --> 844.14] And then Kevin has an announcement. -[844.14 --> 845.14] Hello, hello. -[845.14 --> 847.14] Oh, it's coming on. -[847.14 --> 848.14] There it is. -[848.14 --> 850.14] Good morning, everybody. -[850.14 --> 853.14] I've got an announcement on behalf of Brandon Muller and the Mexico team. -[853.14 --> 854.14] Mexico registration. -[854.14 --> 859.14] If you are in grade 10 or older, and that doesn't mean to grade 12, that means older. -[859.14 --> 864.14] All the way up, you are welcome to sign up and register to join the Mexico trip this year. -[864.14 --> 866.14] We're hoping to have that sorted out soon. -[866.14 --> 874.14] The only hitch is we're still tentatively planning on going in March, but the base that we have been staying at for years and years is no longer hosting teams. -[874.14 --> 878.14] And so, they have sold and are being bought out by someone. -[878.14 --> 881.14] We are looking for a new base. -[881.14 --> 882.14] The hope is to still go in March. -[882.14 --> 884.14] It might have to be a different time of the year. -[884.14 --> 887.14] Either way, we'd love to know some numbers and get a sense of who's interested in coming. -[887.14 --> 888.14] So, please register. -[888.14 --> 889.14] You can talk to Brandon. -[889.14 --> 890.14] He's in the back. -[890.14 --> 891.14] He's waving. -[891.14 --> 892.14] You can come chat with me a little bit too. -[892.14 --> 894.14] And we can give you more information about that. -[894.14 --> 895.14] Thanks. -[895.14 --> 896.14] Excellent. -[896.14 --> 897.14] Okay. -[897.14 --> 899.14] I think that's it for announcements. -[899.14 --> 903.14] And so, if you are able and where you are, would you rise together? -[903.14 --> 906.14] We are going to come together as we come into God's presence. -[906.14 --> 912.14] We give thanks this weekend and we rightfully do so in the presence of our God. -[912.14 --> 915.14] And so, we're going to receive God's greeting together. -[915.14 --> 930.14] And then following God's greeting, I'm going to invite you just to turn to those around you and to welcome them in worship with a handshake, a fist bump, a head nod, a hug if you're particularly familiar, a glare if you don't want a hug. -[930.14 --> 937.14] But we greet each other in the name of the Lord as an extension of God greeting us. -[937.14 --> 939.14] And so, receive God's greeting together. -[939.14 --> 947.14] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, His Son and -[947.14 --> 950.14] our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[950.14 --> 951.14] Amen. -[951.14 --> 952.14] Amen. -[952.14 --> 953.14] Amen. -[981.14 --> 999.14] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 47. -[999.14 --> 1003.14] God has ascended amidst shouts of joy. -[1003.14 --> 1006.14] The Lord amid the sounds of trumpets. -[1006.14 --> 1008.14] Sing praise to God. -[1008.14 --> 1009.14] Sing praises. -[1009.14 --> 1012.14] Sing praises to our King. -[1012.14 --> 1013.14] Sing praises. -[1013.14 --> 1016.14] For God is the King of all the earth. -[1016.14 --> 1019.14] Sing to Him a psalm of praise. -[1019.14 --> 1033.14] And go to the God of praise. -[1034.14 --> 1039.14] Good comments. -[1039.14 --> 1068.38] You are holy. You are mighty. You are worthy. You are worthy. Worthy of grace. I will follow. I will listen. I will love you. -[1069.14 --> 1099.12] I will love you. All of my name. I will sing you and worship the kingdom. I will love him. I will bow down before him. I will sing you and worship the kingdom. -[1099.14 --> 1129.14] I will sing you and worship the kingdom. I will sing you and worship the kingdom. I will sing you and worship the kingdom. -[1129.14 --> 1159.14] You are worthy. You are worthy. Worthy of grace. Worthy of grace. I will follow. I will follow. I will listen. I will listen. I will love you. -[1159.14 --> 1189.14] I will sing you and worship the kingdom. I will sing you and worship the kingdom. I will sing you and worship the kingdom. -[1189.14 --> 1196.14] You are my prince of peace. I will live my life for you. -[1196.14 --> 1205.14] You are my prince of peace. I will live my life for you. -[1205.14 --> 1208.70] Please join me in prayer. -[1208.70 --> 1216.70] God, we come to you on this Thanksgiving weekend, grateful for all that you have done for us. -[1217.14 --> 1222.28] We are forgiven, cleansed, and freed by your sacrifice on the cross. -[1223.24 --> 1226.62] We know that we do not live in this freedom every day. -[1227.76 --> 1231.84] Sin grips us. Sin causes us to rely on ourselves. -[1231.84 --> 1237.84] Sin has a hold on us and we cannot find freedom from it without you. -[1239.04 --> 1242.26] Forgive us, Lord, when we forget your goodness. -[1243.62 --> 1246.28] Restore in us the joy of your salvation. -[1247.62 --> 1253.26] Remind us to be thankful, not only today, but every day, for your gift of life. -[1253.26 --> 1257.28] Help us to live that out each and every day. -[1258.06 --> 1258.40] Amen. -[1258.40 --> 1258.54] Amen. -[1283.26 --> 1289.60] Thank you for saving me. -[1289.60 --> 1294.50] What can I say? -[1294.50 --> 1300.30] You are my everything. -[1300.30 --> 1306.90] I will sing your praise. -[1306.90 --> 1313.02] You shed your love for me. -[1313.26 --> 1318.26] What can I say? -[1318.26 --> 1319.26] What can I say? -[1319.26 --> 1325.26] You took my sin and shame. -[1325.26 --> 1331.26] The sinner called my name. -[1331.26 --> 1341.26] Praise the Lord. -[1341.26 --> 1343.26] Praise the Lord. -[1343.26 --> 1353.26] Praise the Lord. -[1353.26 --> 1365.26] For we know your truth has set us free. -[1365.26 --> 1375.26] You set your love with me. -[1375.26 --> 1376.26] Praise the Lord. -[1376.26 --> 1397.78] Praise the Lord. -[1397.78 --> 1427.76] Thank you. -[1427.78 --> 1457.76] Thank you. -[1457.78 --> 1466.78] You set your hope in me. -[1469.78 --> 1476.78] Thank you for saving me. -[1476.78 --> 1482.78] What can I say? -[1482.78 --> 1483.78] Amen. -[1483.78 --> 1484.78] Thank you. -[1484.78 --> 1485.78] Thank you. -[1485.78 --> 1486.78] Thank you. -[1486.78 --> 1491.78] Please join us in a responsive reading of the Heidelberg Catechism, question number 43. -[1491.78 --> 1499.78] What further benefit do we receive from Christ's sacrifice and death on the cross? -[1499.78 --> 1508.78] Through Christ's death, our old nature is crucified, put to death, and buried with Him, so that -[1508.78 --> 1515.78] the evil desires of the flesh may no longer reign in us, but that we may offer ourselves -[1515.78 --> 1520.78] to Him as a sacrifice of thankfulness. -[1520.78 --> 1521.78] Thank you. -[1521.78 --> 1522.78] Thank you. -[1522.78 --> 1523.78] Thank you. -[1523.78 --> 1524.78] Thank you. -[1524.78 --> 1525.78] Thank you. -[1525.78 --> 1526.78] Thank you. -[1526.78 --> 1527.78] Thank you. -[1527.78 --> 1528.78] Thank you. -[1528.78 --> 1529.78] Thank you. -[1529.78 --> 1530.78] Thank you. -[1530.78 --> 1535.78] Thank you. -[1535.78 --> 1552.16] Put a new song in my heart, let me hear the greatest song, distill the light and give me that again. -[1552.16 --> 1571.16] Put a new song in my mind, help me leave the last beyond, and break these chains that I'm not here again. -[1571.16 --> 1585.16] Lift my fallen face, and help me accept, love me with the grace that comes from your hand, gives me from my sin. -[1585.16 --> 1592.16] Lord, forgive me again, that I might be yours alone. -[1601.16 --> 1615.16] Put a new fire in my soul, make this ruthless spirit whole, and help me see that I am free again. -[1615.16 --> 1630.16] Let these broken bones rise up and rejoice, bring the captive home, and lift up my voice, tell my spirit, sing, -[1630.16 --> 1646.16] that I am free again, that I am free again, and help me accept, love me with the grace that comes from your hand, -[1646.16 --> 1655.16] let me feel my sin, Lord, forgive me again, that I might be yours alone. -[1655.16 --> 1660.16] Let these broken bones rise up and rejoice, bring the captive home, and help me with the grace that comes from your hand, -[1660.16 --> 1665.16] let me feel my soul, and help me with the grace that comes from your hand, -[1665.16 --> 1669.16] let me feel my soul, and help me with the grace that comes from your hand. -[1669.16 --> 1673.16] Let these broken bones rise up and hope you may have been taken by the grace that comes from your hand, -[1673.16 --> 1675.16] let me feel my soul, and help you with the grace that comes from your hand, -[1675.16 --> 1678.16] let me feel my soul, and help me with the grace that comes from your hand, -[1678.16 --> 1679.16] let me feel my soul, and help me with the grace that comes from your hand. -[1679.16 --> 1685.16] Good morning and Happy Thanksgiving everyone. -[1685.16 --> 1690.16] My name is Allison, and I am one of the deacons here at Emmanuel. -[1690.16 --> 1698.16] This morning the focus of our offerings are first, our own minutes, -[1698.16 --> 1706.22] own ministry and missions and that's everything from hydro bills to giving to -[1706.22 --> 1711.36] our community through our groups and kids clubs and all the expenses that -[1711.36 --> 1716.40] need to go towards those things the other thing that we are supporting today -[1716.40 --> 1723.48] is our own Langley food bank now not only do they bring food and supplies to -[1723.48 --> 1730.56] those in our very community our neighbors sometimes our friends they also bring the -[1730.56 --> 1737.86] love of Jesus to these people and let's support them greatly as the Lord has -[1737.86 --> 1742.12] greatly blessed us thank you -[1753.48 --> 1760.48] you -[1760.48 --> 1766.48] you -[1766.48 --> 1774.48] you the perfect holy one -[1774.48 --> 1783.48] your son who drank the bitter cup reserved for me -[1783.48 --> 1793.48] your blood has washed away my sin Jesus thank you the father's wrath completely -[1793.48 --> 1798.48] completely satisfied Jesus thank you -[1798.48 --> 1810.48] once your enemy now seated at your table Jesus thank you -[1810.48 --> 1817.48] you -[1817.48 --> 1823.48] you -[1823.48 --> 1825.48] you -[1825.48 --> 1827.48] you -[1827.48 --> 1829.48] you -[1829.48 --> 1831.48] you -[1831.48 --> 1833.48] you -[1833.48 --> 1854.48] you -[1854.48 --> 1856.48] you -[1856.48 --> 1860.04] The Father's wrath completely satisfied. -[1860.92 --> 1863.04] Jesus, thank you. -[1863.04 --> 1868.86] Once your enemy, now seated at your table. -[1869.26 --> 1874.06] Jesus, thank you. -[1886.48 --> 1897.28] Lover of my soul, I want to live for you. -[1899.28 --> 1910.70] Lover of my soul, I want to live for you. -[1910.70 --> 1923.94] Lover of my soul, I want to live for you. -[1925.94 --> 1936.80] Lover of my soul, I want to live for you. -[1936.80 --> 1966.78] Lover of my soul, I want to live for you. -[1966.78 --> 1970.38] Now seated at your table. -[1970.76 --> 1975.52] Jesus, thank you. -[1976.66 --> 1982.08] Jesus, thank you. -[1996.78 --> 2008.50] I would love to invite all of the kids to come forward and join me up here at the front, -[2008.76 --> 2010.76] right here if you can. -[2011.22 --> 2012.66] If you are three, ha! -[2012.96 --> 2021.84] If you are three to grade four, you could come on up and hang out with me up here for a minute. -[2023.26 --> 2024.70] He's a little shy, I think. -[2025.24 --> 2026.10] He's a little shy. -[2026.10 --> 2031.56] When you guys all come up here, when all of you kids are up here, I'm going to need you all to say, -[2032.32 --> 2032.70] Hank! -[2033.38 --> 2039.60] And maybe, just maybe, if you say it loud enough, he'll come up and join us. -[2039.82 --> 2040.16] You ready? -[2040.80 --> 2041.12] All right. -[2041.20 --> 2042.22] And one, two, three, go. -[2042.22 --> 2046.44] Hi, everyone! -[2048.04 --> 2051.28] It's been so long since I've been up here. -[2051.40 --> 2052.54] How's everybody doing? -[2053.82 --> 2054.34] Good. -[2054.46 --> 2055.52] What have you been up to, Hank? -[2056.08 --> 2056.64] Sleeping. -[2057.40 --> 2057.92] Sleeping? -[2058.60 --> 2058.90] Yeah. -[2059.16 --> 2060.46] I hibernate now. -[2060.84 --> 2061.94] You hibernate now? -[2062.34 --> 2062.66] Yeah. -[2062.76 --> 2063.58] The bears do it. -[2063.64 --> 2065.00] I thought it would be fun, too. -[2065.42 --> 2066.30] And how was it? -[2066.30 --> 2067.30] Great! -[2069.02 --> 2069.50] Great? -[2070.18 --> 2070.70] Yeah! -[2070.94 --> 2073.14] I had the best dream ever. -[2073.78 --> 2075.14] The best dream ever? -[2076.58 --> 2078.42] Should we ask him what his dream was about? -[2078.74 --> 2079.20] Yeah? -[2079.48 --> 2080.56] What was your dream about, Hank? -[2081.00 --> 2084.68] Well, I was a superhero. -[2085.36 --> 2085.94] A superhero? -[2086.46 --> 2086.70] Yep! -[2086.70 --> 2092.54] I had a cape, and I had goggles, and I could see color, and it was so great! -[2092.98 --> 2095.02] I could even fly! -[2095.24 --> 2096.02] You could fly? -[2096.30 --> 2096.82] Yeah! -[2097.08 --> 2102.34] And one day, when I was flying, I saw some trouble. -[2102.74 --> 2103.38] Oh, really? -[2103.56 --> 2104.16] Some trouble? -[2104.56 --> 2104.98] Mm-hmm! -[2105.38 --> 2107.92] And Super Hank needed to save the day! -[2108.32 --> 2109.50] What did you have to do? -[2109.88 --> 2114.58] Well, there was a giant pizza rolling down the hill to the dog park, and it was about to -[2114.58 --> 2116.14] crush all the dog toys! -[2116.58 --> 2119.38] So I had to fly in, and guess what I did? -[2119.86 --> 2120.26] What? -[2121.68 --> 2122.20] Nope! -[2122.50 --> 2123.42] My mouth! -[2124.28 --> 2125.46] I just ate it! -[2125.46 --> 2129.20] And I ate the whole pizza, and the world was saved! -[2129.42 --> 2130.60] Or at least the dog toys! -[2130.82 --> 2132.28] Oh, that's a pretty cool dream, Hank! -[2132.60 --> 2133.02] Yeah! -[2133.02 --> 2136.12] Well, what do you think that dream means? -[2139.88 --> 2140.28] Hmm? -[2142.28 --> 2142.68] Oh! -[2143.76 --> 2144.96] Is that what we're doing today? -[2145.12 --> 2145.32] Yeah! -[2145.44 --> 2147.46] We're going to talk about Joseph's dream today! -[2147.78 --> 2149.38] The segue worked so perfect! -[2152.06 --> 2153.30] What's his dream about? -[2153.30 --> 2155.92] Well, we're going to talk about it in children's worship time today! -[2156.00 --> 2156.64] Does that sound fun? -[2157.22 --> 2157.50] Yeah? -[2158.30 --> 2160.52] Why don't you tell us in the back room when we get back there, okay? -[2161.04 --> 2162.34] That sounds like a good plan! -[2163.06 --> 2163.60] High five! -[2164.48 --> 2164.88] All right! -[2164.98 --> 2167.94] So what we're going to do now is we're going to pray, and then we're going to do the kids' -[2168.02 --> 2170.80] blessing, and then we're going to go back to the children's worship time room, okay? -[2171.30 --> 2172.52] Let's all bow our heads and pray! -[2173.58 --> 2175.38] Father God, we thank you so much for this day! -[2175.50 --> 2178.56] Thank you that we could be here in church today, and that we could learn so much more -[2178.56 --> 2178.96] about you! -[2179.02 --> 2182.44] We pray that you'll be with us as we go to children's worship time, and for the grown-ups -[2182.44 --> 2187.56] who stay here as well, we pray that we will just come to know you and each other a little -[2187.56 --> 2188.44] bit better in your name! -[2188.82 --> 2189.14] Amen! -[2189.86 --> 2190.16] All right! -[2190.20 --> 2192.16] Before we run off, we're going to stand up! -[2192.30 --> 2192.42] Oh! -[2193.10 --> 2193.84] We're going to stand up! -[2193.96 --> 2196.80] We're going to put our hands out, and then together... -[2196.80 --> 2198.70] I absolutely can do that! -[2198.70 --> 2201.60] We're going to say together, the Lord be with you, okay? -[2201.76 --> 2205.24] So we're going to face the church like this, yeah, and then we're going to put our hands -[2205.24 --> 2207.16] out, and we're going to say, the Lord be with you on the count of three. -[2207.22 --> 2207.82] Are you ready, kids? -[2207.92 --> 2209.08] One, two, three. -[2209.58 --> 2211.22] The Lord be with you! -[2215.44 --> 2218.54] Okay, you want to come with me? -[2228.70 --> 2252.22] Good morning. -[2252.22 --> 2255.52] My name is Clary. -[2255.64 --> 2263.26] I'm an elder here at Emmanuel, and I would like to lead you as best I can through family -[2263.26 --> 2263.80] prayer. -[2264.78 --> 2265.86] So, let's pray. -[2266.90 --> 2280.20] Thank you, Lord, that we can be here today and partake in such a profound blessing of corporate -[2280.20 --> 2286.78] worship and drawing together to praise your name, but also, I think, what a lot of us find -[2286.78 --> 2291.18] a profound mystery that's sometimes incomprehensible. -[2294.44 --> 2303.18] It's just us, music and words, and invisibly we are nourished by you. -[2303.18 --> 2312.76] And I suppose for most of the world that has not, or most of those people who haven't encountered -[2312.76 --> 2319.20] you, this may look odd, but so be it. -[2320.00 --> 2322.50] We are a peculiar people, as you've called us. -[2322.50 --> 2331.72] So, today, we ask that we may be fed by your word and by your spirit, and that we may cling -[2331.72 --> 2335.68] to your promises and your assurance. -[2337.86 --> 2342.98] And I know for me, one of the great mysteries of worshiping is praying. -[2343.54 --> 2346.24] I frankly don't quite understand how it works. -[2346.24 --> 2353.80] And there's probably a few of us gathered here, too, who wonder how you can hear all -[2353.80 --> 2361.56] of us, some of us quite focused, many of us distracted, and then a whole planet of people. -[2363.40 --> 2368.72] But it's not ours to understand exactly how all things work. -[2368.72 --> 2376.84] So, Father, will you hear our prayers and attend to the concerns in our hearts, particularly, -[2377.06 --> 2379.72] Lord, those of us who struggle with it. -[2394.90 --> 2395.38] Doubt. -[2398.72 --> 2423.16] We hear our prayers for the people in our community. -[2423.16 --> 2429.00] We think of Neil and Linda Rook. -[2429.76 --> 2431.66] Linda's mother died last week. -[2432.44 --> 2437.30] Will you be with them in their grief? -[2439.52 --> 2447.76] We thank you for a successful surgery for Rika, as she had hip surgery. -[2447.76 --> 2453.92] We continue to give her strength and healing. -[2455.60 --> 2458.82] We've got elections coming up here in British Columbia. -[2460.04 --> 2462.68] We thank you for this gift. -[2462.68 --> 2467.46] We thank you for the opportunity to help us to be very critical. -[2467.46 --> 2476.48] We thank you for the opportunity to help us to be very critical or doubtful. -[2476.48 --> 2488.34] But help us to be so grateful that we have the opportunity to partake in leadership here and -[2488.34 --> 2491.68] for all of those who are running for elected office. -[2491.68 --> 2494.94] And for all of us, we ask for a full measure of wisdom. -[2494.94 --> 2501.50] Mark and Deidre Klingelting's sister-in-law has cancer. -[2501.50 --> 2507.74] And it sounds like this diagnosis is serious. -[2507.74 --> 2511.32] We ask that you will grant healing and grant strength. -[2511.32 --> 2519.06] There are many people in our church family who are unable to be here and to join us. -[2520.50 --> 2528.52] We ask that your spirit may attend to them and that we don't forget them and that we are -[2528.52 --> 2529.48] able to reach out. -[2533.26 --> 2538.18] Will you be with all of our university students and our school students and our homeschooling -[2538.18 --> 2538.60] students? -[2538.60 --> 2541.28] And that's a big ask. -[2541.28 --> 2547.22] But there are so many young people who are working hard every day. -[2547.22 --> 2556.18] We ask that they may seek first to know you and to take their gifts and talents and offer -[2556.18 --> 2563.14] them to you through their learning as a sacrifice of love. -[2563.14 --> 2568.58] We don't have to look very far around us to see many people in this congregation. -[2568.58 --> 2573.58] who have lost loved ones, some recently and some decades ago. -[2574.26 --> 2581.12] For all of those, those of us who grieve, provide a full measure of your spirit. -[2581.12 --> 2587.80] We have wars and rumors of war that continue to rage around the world. -[2587.80 --> 2589.74] This is nothing new. -[2589.74 --> 2592.42] But we ask that peace may prevail. -[2592.42 --> 2600.36] And for all of those people of great power and influence who are known and may be influential -[2600.36 --> 2601.36] behind the scenes. -[2601.36 --> 2604.42] May they seek peace. -[2604.42 --> 2618.10] And finally, we want to give you thanks for love and how that has manifested in our congregation -[2618.10 --> 2619.10] and marriage. -[2619.10 --> 2620.10] We've got a couple of anniversaries. -[2620.10 --> 2624.10] Bill and Mary and De Winter are celebrating their 45th. -[2624.10 --> 2628.10] And then Paul and Leslie Kuhl are celebrating their 40th. -[2628.10 --> 2630.10] Thank you for the testimony of this faithfulness. -[2630.10 --> 2643.10] And may we all be grateful to you for how your love for us can be shown through marriage. -[2643.10 --> 2645.10] Amen. -[2645.10 --> 2645.40] Amen. -[2660.10 --> 2679.78] This morning, as we reflect on Thanksgiving, I'm mindful of the fact, as Clary prayed for -[2679.78 --> 2683.36] us, that Christians are intended to be a peculiar people. -[2683.36 --> 2691.12] And then on Thanksgiving weekend, we kind of do the same thing that everyone else does. -[2691.12 --> 2697.78] And so I wonder, how can we think of Thanksgiving differently? -[2697.78 --> 2704.02] And what does what I'm going to call real Thanksgiving perhaps look like? -[2704.02 --> 2709.38] And so to help us address that and to hopefully open our eyes to these realities, we're going -[2709.38 --> 2713.14] to read from 1 Timothy 2. -[2713.14 --> 2715.94] I'm going to read the first seven verses. -[2715.94 --> 2719.00] The first time through, it will be on the screen behind me overhead. -[2719.00 --> 2724.24] But as always, I encourage you to open the Bible you brought or on your device, however -[2724.24 --> 2727.14] it is that you read the Bible. -[2727.14 --> 2731.62] If you would like one, there are some at the back that are available to you as well. -[2731.62 --> 2736.24] And then just keep that open as we go through our time together this morning. -[2736.24 --> 2741.00] So let me read from 1 Timothy 2, starting at verse 1. -[2741.00 --> 2742.00] 1 Timothy 3, starting at verse 1. -[2742.00 --> 2749.36] I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be -[2749.36 --> 2755.38] made for all people, for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and -[2755.38 --> 2758.62] quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. -[2758.62 --> 2766.64] This is good and pleases God, our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to -[2766.64 --> 2768.02] a knowledge of the truth. -[2768.02 --> 2776.36] For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who -[2776.36 --> 2778.80] gave himself as a ransom for all people. -[2779.90 --> 2782.98] And this has now been witnessed at the proper time. -[2783.34 --> 2787.48] And for this purpose, I was appointed a herald and an apostle. -[2787.76 --> 2788.86] I am telling the truth. -[2788.96 --> 2789.78] I am not lying. -[2790.16 --> 2793.64] And a true and faithful teacher of the Gentiles. -[2794.30 --> 2795.58] This is the word of the Lord. -[2798.02 --> 2807.18] So what I want to suggest to you this morning, and what I hope right out the gate shows you -[2807.18 --> 2813.70] the distinction between a real, genuine, authentic Christian approach to thanksgiving and what -[2813.70 --> 2816.52] might be a more cultural one, is this idea. -[2816.52 --> 2823.82] Real thanksgiving starts with God and changes reality. -[2825.56 --> 2830.80] Real thanksgiving starts with God and changes reality. -[2832.68 --> 2841.90] Now in the letter that we read, verse 1, starts with an urging based on what came before. -[2841.90 --> 2845.14] That's what it means when we read, I urge then. -[2846.26 --> 2852.46] And that urging, there's two things really that are there that Paul, who wrote this letter, -[2852.66 --> 2857.94] is basing his urging of Timothy, who receives this letter, on. -[2858.78 --> 2866.74] Paul urges Timothy to pray for all people because Paul has seen the impact of God's action -[2866.74 --> 2873.14] and mercy in his life, and he wants the same new reality for everyone. -[2874.82 --> 2879.64] And so already, right away, we're beginning to see that prayer is a missional activity. -[2879.84 --> 2883.58] Prayer is the first missional activity of the church. -[2884.72 --> 2886.34] Listen to Paul's own testimony. -[2886.48 --> 2889.68] This comes from chapter 1, if your Bibles are open, in verse 12. -[2889.68 --> 2891.34] Paul says, -[2891.34 --> 2897.42] I thank Christ Jesus, our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, -[2897.88 --> 2905.08] appointing me to his service, even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man. -[2905.08 --> 2908.52] I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. -[2908.96 --> 2917.68] The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. -[2917.68 --> 2922.10] Now, if you're unfamiliar with Paul's story, -[2922.94 --> 2927.70] Paul kind of starts out as a Jewish Pharisee. -[2928.34 --> 2935.76] A Pharisee in the Jewish system is someone who focuses very strictly and intently on the law of Moses -[2935.76 --> 2939.14] and teaches others to do the same. -[2939.14 --> 2948.06] In fact, Paul was being trained to be the next great Pharisee. -[2949.18 --> 2951.16] And when the Christian church first started, -[2951.84 --> 2958.02] Paul was a lead persecutor and hunter-killer of the followers of Jesus. -[2958.98 --> 2962.44] He even boasted about how good he was at his job. -[2962.44 --> 2967.94] But then, one day, while he was traveling to Damascus to go route out Christians there, -[2968.28 --> 2973.28] he was met on the road by the resurrected and ascended Jesus while traveling. -[2973.28 --> 2979.50] And he has a vision of Jesus, and he's told to go ahead to the city and wait for a man to arrive. -[2979.50 --> 2986.34] And while that's happening, there's a man in Damascus named Ananias who also has a vision, -[2986.70 --> 2990.66] and he's told to go to Judas' house where he will find Paul. -[2991.60 --> 2994.42] Of course, Ananias is terrified because he's heard the rumors of Paul, -[2994.52 --> 2997.30] but he goes anyway because when the Lord commands, you go. -[2998.26 --> 3003.56] And then, while they meet, Paul is taught by Ananias and the other disciples in Damascus, -[3003.56 --> 3007.38] and then he begins to preach powerfully for Jesus. -[3007.82 --> 3010.36] His life is totally transformed. -[3010.58 --> 3014.88] And again, if you know the story, he goes all over the then-known world, -[3014.88 --> 3018.20] and he preaches powerfully for the gospel. -[3018.20 --> 3023.58] And the church grows exponentially from that point forward. -[3024.70 --> 3028.86] And even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, -[3028.96 --> 3033.06] the grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, he says. -[3033.56 --> 3037.72] Along with faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. -[3038.72 --> 3042.88] Part of why we pray, part of why we give thanks, -[3043.02 --> 3046.12] is because of what God has done in our lives, -[3046.16 --> 3050.40] and because we want that in the lives of everyone around us. -[3051.42 --> 3053.16] And again, we read this. -[3053.24 --> 3056.42] Paul makes this point in verse 16 of chapter 1. -[3058.34 --> 3061.52] Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, -[3061.52 --> 3063.90] of whom I am the worst, he says. -[3064.48 --> 3066.96] But for that very reason, I was shown mercy, -[3066.96 --> 3070.54] so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ might be displayed. -[3070.98 --> 3074.64] Christ might display his immense patience as an example for those -[3074.64 --> 3078.22] who believe in him and who receive eternal life. -[3079.36 --> 3082.16] Jesus came to save sinners. -[3082.42 --> 3083.46] We are sinners. -[3083.62 --> 3086.68] And because we are sinners, he has shown us mercy. -[3086.68 --> 3090.12] And because he shows us mercy, we receive from him eternal life -[3090.12 --> 3092.10] if we believe in the truth of who he is. -[3092.46 --> 3095.82] And then, quite simply, when we believe that and have received that, -[3095.90 --> 3097.48] we want that for everyone. -[3098.60 --> 3099.70] That's why we pray. -[3099.86 --> 3101.46] That's why we give thanks. -[3102.96 --> 3108.12] Now, the second reason behind Paul's urging prayer and thanksgiving -[3108.12 --> 3114.50] is actually to protect and to guard those who believe. -[3116.04 --> 3116.18] Right? -[3116.24 --> 3119.78] And so, again, in verse 18 to 20 of chapter 1, -[3120.52 --> 3121.20] Paul writes, -[3121.20 --> 3145.64] The command referred to here is the command to instruct certain people -[3145.64 --> 3148.92] against false and bad teaching. -[3148.92 --> 3154.78] A command that Paul says comes from the goal of love -[3154.78 --> 3158.50] and from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. -[3159.30 --> 3159.40] Right? -[3159.44 --> 3164.12] The point is, Christians, and now specifically and especially Christian leaders, -[3164.96 --> 3167.98] have the responsibility to teach true faith -[3167.98 --> 3171.20] and to live that true faith with a clear conscience -[3171.20 --> 3175.10] in order to protect others from falling away, -[3175.10 --> 3178.80] from falling out of faith and into sin. -[3178.92 --> 3184.46] And so, the petitions and prayers, intercessions and thanksgiving -[3184.46 --> 3187.50] that we are called to make for all people -[3187.50 --> 3191.56] center around their seeing God at work, -[3191.98 --> 3195.24] center around their conversion to the truth of the gospel -[3195.24 --> 3199.96] and being captivated by the beauty of God revealed in the word. -[3199.96 --> 3205.50] And it centers around protecting those who believe from walking away. -[3205.50 --> 3213.16] Now, some of us are here this morning because it's Thanksgiving weekend -[3213.16 --> 3215.64] and someone in your family said, -[3215.78 --> 3217.90] Hey, it'd be really nice if you came to church with us. -[3217.90 --> 3225.68] And if that's you, I want you to hear that you, right now, are being prayed for. -[3228.82 --> 3231.48] That you, right now, are loved. -[3231.48 --> 3242.06] And our prayer and that love is hopefully showing something of the majesty of God to you this morning. -[3242.06 --> 3245.96] And I plead with you, don't miss it. -[3247.02 --> 3248.28] Don't miss his love. -[3248.94 --> 3253.58] Don't miss the love that brought you here in order for you to hear. -[3256.24 --> 3257.86] And then for all of us, -[3259.30 --> 3261.34] whether it's today or tomorrow, -[3261.98 --> 3263.82] or retroactively if it was yesterday, -[3264.98 --> 3268.86] when you gather together with family and friends to celebrate Thanksgiving, -[3268.86 --> 3271.22] in whatever that looks like for you, -[3271.44 --> 3274.06] maybe it's turkey, maybe it's Chinese food, -[3275.02 --> 3280.40] when the conversation turns to matters of life and faith, -[3280.48 --> 3284.92] when the conversation turns to matters of religion or politics, -[3285.96 --> 3286.48] remember, -[3287.48 --> 3291.50] the goal of this command, Paul writes, -[3291.96 --> 3292.84] is love. -[3292.84 --> 3299.08] So however you talk to the people that you're sharing mashed potatoes with, -[3300.12 --> 3302.30] I pray that it's dripping with love. -[3304.12 --> 3306.70] However you pass the spring rolls down the road, -[3306.78 --> 3309.50] I pray that love is seen and it's evident to all. -[3310.84 --> 3312.38] And so watch your anger. -[3313.82 --> 3315.06] Mitigate your cynicism. -[3315.82 --> 3318.30] Season everything you do with love. -[3318.30 --> 3321.04] And yes, of course, -[3321.40 --> 3324.40] the conversations that you have to have might be hard. -[3325.48 --> 3329.80] And you may be in a circumstance or in a kind of familial dynamic -[3329.80 --> 3334.04] where you discern that you must protect people from bad ideas -[3334.04 --> 3336.70] or from hollow and deceptive philosophies. -[3337.20 --> 3339.76] Today may be the day for a hard conversation. -[3341.78 --> 3343.04] But if it's going to be, -[3344.14 --> 3345.76] will you, like Paul, -[3346.82 --> 3348.18] commit to praying for it? -[3348.54 --> 3348.86] First. -[3350.38 --> 3352.26] Will you pray the way Paul does -[3352.26 --> 3354.10] before that happens? -[3354.84 --> 3357.32] And will you enter into that conversation -[3357.32 --> 3359.28] not with the idea to win, -[3360.20 --> 3362.98] but with the same goals that Paul gives us -[3362.98 --> 3364.56] in our Thanksgiving? -[3364.68 --> 3365.66] Look at the text again. -[3367.14 --> 3369.16] Paul begins with this urging -[3369.16 --> 3373.82] based on his need to protect people in the truth -[3373.82 --> 3376.38] and because his desire is that all might know -[3376.38 --> 3377.78] Jesus who saved him, -[3377.78 --> 3381.02] he gives us these four words for prayer. -[3381.74 --> 3386.52] Now, I don't want to make too much of the particular words in our midst -[3386.52 --> 3388.68] because they are somewhat synonymous. -[3388.84 --> 3389.52] And what I mean by that is -[3389.52 --> 3391.18] at different times in the Bible, -[3391.40 --> 3393.32] all of these words are used -[3393.32 --> 3395.58] to refer to prayer sort of generally. -[3395.58 --> 3399.54] But the reason that they're given here in a list, -[3400.54 --> 3404.48] right, indicates to me that there's something particular -[3404.48 --> 3407.70] about each one that I think Paul wants us to hear. -[3407.70 --> 3409.16] Right? -[3409.20 --> 3411.70] And so this idea of petition and of prayer -[3411.70 --> 3414.52] and of intercession and of a word of thanks. -[3415.40 --> 3417.78] I don't think these are just synonyms. -[3418.08 --> 3421.10] I think there's a point that's behind these four words -[3421.10 --> 3424.40] and that's why they're being urged in the manner that they are. -[3424.40 --> 3426.76] And in some ways, I think there's a movement -[3426.76 --> 3429.56] that shapes all of our prayers. -[3430.56 --> 3431.28] Right? -[3431.32 --> 3435.78] And so we make specific requests for needs. -[3436.42 --> 3437.14] Right? -[3437.22 --> 3438.10] These petitions. -[3438.64 --> 3441.42] We bring those specific requests -[3441.42 --> 3444.22] and the needs of the people who have them -[3444.22 --> 3446.94] into view before God. -[3447.78 --> 3450.42] And we boldly appeal on their behalf. -[3451.28 --> 3454.06] And then we give thanks to God for them -[3454.06 --> 3457.36] and for whatever it is that he may be doing in this moment. -[3458.06 --> 3461.28] In short, when you think of praying this weekend -[3461.28 --> 3463.12] and before these gatherings, -[3463.34 --> 3464.86] I want you to be specific, -[3465.40 --> 3466.28] be particular, -[3466.92 --> 3467.74] be bold, -[3467.94 --> 3469.12] and be grateful. -[3469.12 --> 3470.28] Right? -[3471.50 --> 3472.22] Be specific. -[3472.46 --> 3473.28] And what I mean by that is -[3473.28 --> 3476.68] tell God exactly what you are petitioning him for. -[3479.36 --> 3480.16] Right? -[3480.20 --> 3480.98] Instead of praying, -[3481.52 --> 3483.08] please bring healing, -[3484.12 --> 3485.26] maybe you pray, -[3486.10 --> 3486.54] God, -[3487.12 --> 3489.74] end this liver cancer. -[3490.84 --> 3492.40] Be specific. -[3494.82 --> 3495.06] Right? -[3495.08 --> 3496.58] And then be particular. -[3497.68 --> 3497.92] Right? -[3497.92 --> 3498.22] That is, -[3498.46 --> 3501.88] name exactly who you are praying for. -[3503.54 --> 3503.90] Right? -[3504.04 --> 3507.08] End this liver cancer for John. -[3508.16 --> 3510.08] I tried to pick a really generic name there. -[3510.40 --> 3511.72] If there's a John here with liver cancer, -[3511.84 --> 3513.70] I apologize for outing you in that way. -[3514.32 --> 3515.16] But then I don't. -[3515.20 --> 3516.14] Because I want to pray for you. -[3516.82 --> 3517.24] You get it? -[3517.26 --> 3518.08] You see how this is working? -[3519.66 --> 3520.02] All right, -[3520.02 --> 3520.64] be specific, -[3520.78 --> 3521.32] be particular, -[3521.44 --> 3522.28] and be bold. -[3522.28 --> 3524.36] Imagine when you're praying -[3524.36 --> 3525.44] that what you're doing -[3525.44 --> 3526.64] is actually talking -[3526.64 --> 3528.66] to the Lord of the universe. -[3529.54 --> 3530.84] And you're asking him -[3530.84 --> 3531.44] to intercede -[3531.96 --> 3534.14] in a way that only he can. -[3536.14 --> 3538.94] Be bold in your praying. -[3540.34 --> 3541.40] And then finally, -[3542.24 --> 3543.02] be grateful. -[3544.12 --> 3544.36] Right? -[3544.48 --> 3547.34] Give thanksgiving to God. -[3547.34 --> 3550.18] Have gratitude to God -[3550.18 --> 3552.20] for what he has already done -[3552.20 --> 3554.34] and what he will do -[3554.34 --> 3555.70] because in your praying -[3555.70 --> 3556.78] you have been specific -[3556.78 --> 3558.50] and particular and bold. -[3559.28 --> 3560.28] Be specific. -[3560.78 --> 3561.40] Be particular. -[3561.64 --> 3562.16] Be bold. -[3562.32 --> 3563.48] And be grateful. -[3564.62 --> 3565.54] And can I tell you something? -[3565.54 --> 3569.74] It's really hard. -[3569.98 --> 3571.36] It's really hard -[3571.36 --> 3572.62] to be anxious -[3572.62 --> 3575.18] when you are choosing -[3575.18 --> 3576.44] to focus on your gratitude. -[3578.62 --> 3580.78] Gratitude pushes out worry. -[3582.50 --> 3583.56] Gratitude flows -[3583.56 --> 3585.10] from meeting God -[3585.10 --> 3586.00] in the throne room -[3586.00 --> 3586.62] of his grace -[3586.62 --> 3587.64] and of his mercy -[3587.64 --> 3588.26] in the temple -[3588.26 --> 3589.44] of his worship. -[3590.22 --> 3591.38] And when you are standing -[3591.38 --> 3592.18] in the presence -[3592.18 --> 3593.56] of the glory of God, -[3593.88 --> 3595.36] all of a sudden, -[3595.54 --> 3596.94] those things -[3596.94 --> 3597.92] that give us worry -[3597.92 --> 3602.04] seem to be minimized -[3602.04 --> 3603.90] in the majesty -[3603.90 --> 3605.58] of who he is. -[3607.50 --> 3608.44] Thanksgiving, -[3609.12 --> 3610.02] gratitude, -[3610.84 --> 3612.18] is truly -[3612.18 --> 3614.82] a Christian reality. -[3616.00 --> 3616.68] And thanksgiving -[3616.68 --> 3618.00] ought to be -[3618.00 --> 3619.86] our default posture -[3619.86 --> 3621.28] because thanksgiving -[3621.28 --> 3622.68] is worship. -[3623.92 --> 3624.30] Thanksgiving, -[3624.68 --> 3625.00] honestly, -[3625.00 --> 3626.02] is the only -[3626.02 --> 3627.68] logical and normal -[3627.68 --> 3628.28] response -[3628.28 --> 3629.70] to meeting God, -[3629.80 --> 3630.96] to being met by God, -[3631.04 --> 3631.82] to learning the truth -[3631.82 --> 3633.20] of who this God is -[3633.20 --> 3634.14] and to seeing -[3634.14 --> 3634.80] and receiving -[3634.80 --> 3635.58] his grace. -[3636.68 --> 3636.78] Right? -[3636.82 --> 3638.64] Gratitude follows grace. -[3641.34 --> 3641.56] Now, -[3641.92 --> 3643.34] with your patience, -[3643.74 --> 3644.88] I'm going to get a little -[3644.88 --> 3646.08] philosophical -[3646.08 --> 3647.28] for a moment -[3647.28 --> 3647.74] and so -[3647.74 --> 3649.66] endure with me -[3649.66 --> 3650.12] in this. -[3650.12 --> 3652.74] if you separate -[3652.74 --> 3653.72] your thanksgiving -[3653.72 --> 3654.44] from God, -[3655.54 --> 3656.12] that is, -[3656.20 --> 3656.38] right, -[3656.62 --> 3657.44] for everyone -[3657.44 --> 3658.34] who celebrates -[3658.34 --> 3658.90] thanksgiving -[3658.90 --> 3659.74] as purely -[3659.74 --> 3660.52] a cultural -[3660.52 --> 3661.76] or historical -[3661.76 --> 3662.44] phenomenon, -[3663.14 --> 3664.68] if you separate -[3664.68 --> 3665.48] your thanksgiving -[3665.48 --> 3666.22] from God, -[3666.34 --> 3667.24] you're actually -[3667.24 --> 3668.00] missing -[3668.00 --> 3668.98] the fullness -[3668.98 --> 3670.36] of what gratitude -[3670.36 --> 3671.22] can be. -[3672.80 --> 3673.52] Right? -[3673.52 --> 3674.36] To be thankful -[3674.36 --> 3675.60] genuinely, -[3675.80 --> 3676.70] or generally, -[3676.94 --> 3677.54] to be thankful -[3677.54 --> 3678.86] generally, -[3679.08 --> 3680.04] even though I'm sure -[3680.04 --> 3680.90] it is absolutely -[3680.90 --> 3681.50] genuine, -[3682.50 --> 3683.70] to be thankful -[3683.70 --> 3684.64] generally -[3684.64 --> 3685.96] is to be thankful -[3685.96 --> 3688.42] only nebulously. -[3690.80 --> 3691.40] Right? -[3691.40 --> 3692.02] when there's no -[3692.02 --> 3693.42] real or right -[3693.42 --> 3694.52] or transcendent -[3694.52 --> 3695.86] object of our -[3695.86 --> 3696.32] gratitude -[3696.32 --> 3697.48] or recipient -[3697.48 --> 3698.56] of our worship, -[3698.56 --> 3699.64] it's ultimately -[3699.64 --> 3700.54] incomplete. -[3702.40 --> 3702.96] Or, -[3703.18 --> 3704.22] and more likely -[3704.22 --> 3705.66] for many of us -[3705.66 --> 3706.18] here this morning -[3706.18 --> 3707.04] more accurately, -[3707.72 --> 3709.38] when we try -[3709.38 --> 3710.36] to locate -[3710.36 --> 3711.36] the object -[3711.36 --> 3712.58] of our thanksgiving -[3712.58 --> 3713.44] in something -[3713.44 --> 3714.70] less than -[3714.70 --> 3715.24] the God -[3715.24 --> 3715.96] of the universe, -[3716.26 --> 3717.08] the feeling -[3717.08 --> 3718.00] of gratitude -[3718.00 --> 3719.22] and that comfort -[3719.22 --> 3720.24] that comes from -[3720.24 --> 3720.96] gratitude -[3720.96 --> 3722.60] is as fleeting -[3722.60 --> 3723.60] as the thing -[3723.60 --> 3724.00] that you're -[3724.00 --> 3724.66] thankful for. -[3727.68 --> 3728.96] And so last year, -[3729.10 --> 3730.74] you were thankful -[3730.74 --> 3731.40] for health, -[3732.40 --> 3733.72] but this year, -[3733.80 --> 3734.30] you have a terminal -[3734.30 --> 3734.82] diagnosis. -[3736.28 --> 3737.22] What does that mean? -[3738.14 --> 3738.74] Last year, -[3738.80 --> 3739.32] you were thankful -[3739.32 --> 3740.06] for your boyfriend -[3740.06 --> 3741.08] or for your girlfriend. -[3741.40 --> 3741.82] This year, -[3741.90 --> 3742.52] you've broken up. -[3744.54 --> 3745.24] Last year, -[3745.32 --> 3745.90] you were thankful -[3745.90 --> 3746.98] for your great job. -[3747.28 --> 3747.66] This year, -[3747.72 --> 3748.48] you've been laid off. -[3749.68 --> 3750.36] Last year, -[3750.36 --> 3751.00] you were thankful -[3751.00 --> 3751.60] for deep -[3751.60 --> 3753.02] and long-lasting -[3753.02 --> 3753.84] relationships, -[3754.18 --> 3754.80] and this year, -[3754.88 --> 3755.28] their spot -[3755.28 --> 3755.76] at the table -[3755.76 --> 3756.26] is empty. -[3759.18 --> 3759.86] And don't hear -[3759.86 --> 3760.48] what I'm not saying. -[3760.54 --> 3761.46] It's not that we can't -[3761.46 --> 3762.00] or shouldn't -[3762.00 --> 3762.56] be thankful -[3762.56 --> 3763.44] for those things -[3763.44 --> 3764.34] when they come. -[3764.40 --> 3765.44] We absolutely should, -[3765.70 --> 3767.50] especially when we realize -[3767.50 --> 3768.52] just how fragile -[3768.52 --> 3770.12] some of those things are. -[3771.00 --> 3772.16] But if we made, -[3772.28 --> 3773.04] if we have made -[3773.04 --> 3774.18] more of them, -[3774.24 --> 3775.14] if we've made them -[3775.14 --> 3776.46] into the thing, -[3776.46 --> 3777.44] if we've tied -[3777.44 --> 3778.28] our sense of meaning -[3778.28 --> 3779.58] or our sense of purpose -[3779.58 --> 3780.28] or identity -[3780.28 --> 3781.70] or our experience -[3781.70 --> 3782.50] of full joy -[3782.50 --> 3783.86] to those particular things, -[3783.98 --> 3785.12] we will always, -[3785.36 --> 3785.80] in the end, -[3785.88 --> 3786.68] be disappointed. -[3787.64 --> 3788.62] They can't handle -[3788.62 --> 3789.62] the weight of that. -[3790.68 --> 3791.66] That kind of weight -[3791.66 --> 3793.00] can only be handled -[3793.00 --> 3794.36] by God. -[3796.68 --> 3797.08] Now, -[3797.10 --> 3797.54] did you know -[3797.54 --> 3799.44] that in the Old Testament, -[3799.66 --> 3800.14] in the Hebrew, -[3800.56 --> 3801.76] the word that's translated -[3801.76 --> 3802.14] weight -[3802.14 --> 3803.00] or weighty -[3803.00 --> 3803.62] or heavy -[3803.62 --> 3805.12] is also, -[3805.26 --> 3806.02] when talking about God, -[3806.18 --> 3807.56] translated glory. -[3810.12 --> 3810.36] Right? -[3810.40 --> 3811.78] When we glory -[3811.78 --> 3813.56] in the lesser things, -[3813.72 --> 3814.54] they will fail. -[3815.08 --> 3816.22] But when we glory -[3816.22 --> 3816.96] in God, -[3817.14 --> 3818.32] the lesser things -[3818.32 --> 3819.46] have more value. -[3820.70 --> 3821.88] That's what gratitude -[3821.88 --> 3823.88] to God does, -[3823.94 --> 3824.58] what gratitude -[3824.58 --> 3826.56] for God does. -[3826.66 --> 3827.50] It helps us -[3827.50 --> 3829.56] order reality well. -[3829.56 --> 3830.48] It helps us order -[3830.48 --> 3831.56] our glories -[3831.56 --> 3833.22] well and properly. -[3833.62 --> 3835.44] Now, -[3835.50 --> 3836.12] that means -[3836.12 --> 3837.48] thanksgiving -[3837.48 --> 3838.70] without God -[3838.70 --> 3839.84] is an improper -[3839.84 --> 3840.46] ordering -[3840.46 --> 3841.74] of reality. -[3842.64 --> 3842.96] Thanksgiving -[3842.96 --> 3843.90] without God -[3843.90 --> 3844.98] is an inadequate, -[3845.56 --> 3846.30] incomplete -[3846.30 --> 3847.26] understanding -[3847.26 --> 3848.52] of reality. -[3849.36 --> 3850.12] That's why -[3850.12 --> 3850.84] we are thankful. -[3851.32 --> 3851.78] That's why -[3851.78 --> 3852.44] we pray. -[3853.36 --> 3853.48] Right? -[3853.54 --> 3854.18] Because both -[3854.18 --> 3854.82] of these things -[3854.82 --> 3855.98] help us properly -[3855.98 --> 3857.78] define reality, -[3858.02 --> 3859.36] recognizing God -[3859.36 --> 3859.98] at the top. -[3860.14 --> 3860.68] And not just -[3860.68 --> 3861.18] at the top -[3861.18 --> 3862.34] in the hierarchy -[3862.34 --> 3863.50] of being sense, -[3863.50 --> 3864.58] but at the top -[3864.58 --> 3865.66] is a holy other, -[3865.82 --> 3867.58] utterly transcendent, -[3867.72 --> 3869.32] absolutely holy -[3869.32 --> 3870.18] and set apart. -[3870.48 --> 3871.16] The creator -[3871.16 --> 3872.54] stands apart -[3872.54 --> 3874.32] from his creation. -[3875.48 --> 3875.60] Now, -[3875.62 --> 3875.98] what I hope -[3875.98 --> 3876.64] you're seeing -[3876.64 --> 3877.16] is that -[3877.16 --> 3878.32] right thanksgiving -[3878.32 --> 3880.32] has an ontological -[3880.32 --> 3881.02] impact. -[3881.50 --> 3882.06] That is, -[3882.12 --> 3882.84] you make sense -[3882.84 --> 3883.56] of the world -[3883.56 --> 3884.16] properly -[3884.16 --> 3885.94] when it's rooted -[3885.94 --> 3886.84] in right thanksgiving. -[3886.84 --> 3888.66] Now, -[3888.68 --> 3889.64] the amazing thing -[3889.64 --> 3890.42] about this -[3890.42 --> 3891.36] right understanding -[3891.36 --> 3892.46] of who God is -[3892.46 --> 3893.10] is that -[3893.10 --> 3894.20] even though, -[3894.30 --> 3894.66] and perhaps -[3894.66 --> 3895.62] especially because, -[3896.02 --> 3896.60] even though -[3896.60 --> 3898.16] he is wholly other, -[3898.74 --> 3899.32] this God -[3899.32 --> 3900.84] came into the world -[3900.84 --> 3901.84] that he created -[3901.84 --> 3902.68] to save us. -[3903.26 --> 3903.98] What does Paul say? -[3904.22 --> 3905.38] For there is one God -[3905.38 --> 3906.34] and one mediator -[3906.34 --> 3907.16] between God -[3907.16 --> 3907.72] and mankind, -[3908.36 --> 3908.98] the man -[3908.98 --> 3910.14] Christ Jesus -[3910.14 --> 3911.48] who gave himself -[3911.48 --> 3912.36] as a ransom -[3912.36 --> 3914.08] for all people. -[3914.08 --> 3915.12] If that doesn't -[3915.12 --> 3915.96] blow your mind -[3915.96 --> 3916.84] this thanksgiving, -[3917.06 --> 3917.64] you're missing -[3917.64 --> 3918.24] the point. -[3919.80 --> 3919.92] Right? -[3919.98 --> 3921.08] The God of the universe -[3921.08 --> 3922.82] who is utterly transcendent -[3922.82 --> 3923.80] took on flesh -[3923.80 --> 3925.04] and came into the world -[3925.04 --> 3925.80] that he created. -[3927.04 --> 3927.66] And not only -[3927.66 --> 3928.88] did he just show up, -[3929.06 --> 3930.18] he lived the life -[3930.18 --> 3930.92] I should have lived. -[3931.00 --> 3931.88] He died the death -[3931.88 --> 3932.70] that I deserved. -[3932.78 --> 3933.68] He paid the penalty -[3933.68 --> 3934.92] for my sin -[3934.92 --> 3935.96] and he bore -[3935.96 --> 3937.02] the wrath of God -[3937.02 --> 3938.84] and he won victory -[3938.84 --> 3939.70] over sin -[3939.70 --> 3940.38] and death -[3940.38 --> 3941.38] and dying on the cross -[3941.38 --> 3942.70] and three days later -[3942.70 --> 3943.84] this same God -[3943.84 --> 3945.10] was raised again -[3945.10 --> 3945.94] from the dead. -[3946.86 --> 3947.28] And after that -[3947.28 --> 3948.44] he was ascended -[3948.44 --> 3949.42] to the right hand -[3949.42 --> 3949.90] of the Father -[3949.90 --> 3950.62] where now -[3950.62 --> 3951.80] at the name of Jesus -[3951.80 --> 3953.00] every knee shall bow -[3953.00 --> 3953.90] in heaven and on earth -[3953.90 --> 3954.72] and under the earth -[3954.72 --> 3955.70] that Jesus Christ -[3955.70 --> 3956.98] is Lord. -[3957.38 --> 3958.32] That's the root -[3958.32 --> 3959.26] of our thanksgiving. -[3961.46 --> 3962.66] And when this is true -[3962.66 --> 3963.54] for you -[3963.54 --> 3964.28] and for me -[3964.28 --> 3965.00] in our hearts -[3965.00 --> 3965.96] and in our minds -[3965.96 --> 3967.18] and we are transformed -[3967.18 --> 3970.10] by this new creation reality -[3970.10 --> 3971.70] this gospel message -[3971.70 --> 3972.78] of Jesus -[3972.78 --> 3974.22] that changes -[3974.22 --> 3975.56] everything -[3975.56 --> 3976.58] about -[3976.58 --> 3977.76] our -[3977.76 --> 3978.96] lives. -[3980.80 --> 3982.24] Why we pray. -[3983.18 --> 3984.58] What we pray for. -[3985.58 --> 3986.80] The way we pray. -[3987.46 --> 3989.24] The conduct we have -[3989.24 --> 3989.84] in the midst -[3989.84 --> 3991.12] of these -[3991.12 --> 3993.20] family dinners -[3993.20 --> 3995.02] around a Thanksgiving table. -[3996.28 --> 3998.62] And Paul even instructs us. -[3998.62 --> 3999.14] He says -[3999.14 --> 4000.84] we pray -[4000.84 --> 4002.58] for all people -[4002.58 --> 4003.36] for kings -[4003.36 --> 4004.62] and those in authority -[4004.62 --> 4006.86] which means -[4006.86 --> 4008.18] we pray for everyone -[4008.18 --> 4009.50] in every circumstance -[4009.50 --> 4011.96] that we may live -[4011.96 --> 4012.88] peaceful -[4012.88 --> 4014.58] and quiet lives -[4014.58 --> 4015.50] in all godliness -[4015.50 --> 4016.88] and holiness. -[4016.88 --> 4020.04] So I want to ask you -[4020.04 --> 4022.42] will your conversations -[4022.42 --> 4023.34] at the Thanksgiving -[4023.34 --> 4024.72] table today -[4024.72 --> 4025.64] or tomorrow -[4025.64 --> 4026.54] reflect -[4026.54 --> 4027.82] these twin -[4027.82 --> 4029.48] tandem truths? -[4030.28 --> 4031.12] Right first -[4031.12 --> 4032.28] that God is the one -[4032.28 --> 4032.86] to whom -[4032.86 --> 4034.22] we must be thankful -[4034.22 --> 4036.98] and that our gratitude -[4036.98 --> 4037.94] shows up -[4037.94 --> 4039.24] in peaceful -[4039.24 --> 4040.82] quiet lives -[4040.82 --> 4041.92] of godliness -[4041.92 --> 4043.12] and holiness. -[4044.38 --> 4045.74] Really practically -[4045.74 --> 4047.30] I'll put it this way. -[4048.22 --> 4048.92] Will your niece -[4048.92 --> 4049.72] go home -[4049.72 --> 4050.80] after dinner -[4050.80 --> 4051.32] saying -[4051.32 --> 4052.30] man -[4052.30 --> 4053.32] uncle -[4053.32 --> 4054.68] whoever -[4054.68 --> 4055.88] sure is -[4055.88 --> 4056.30] peaceful -[4056.30 --> 4057.00] and godly. -[4059.24 --> 4060.52] Will your friend -[4060.52 --> 4061.26] go home -[4061.26 --> 4062.10] from dinner -[4062.10 --> 4062.50] saying -[4062.50 --> 4063.00] wow -[4063.00 --> 4064.76] she is so calm -[4064.76 --> 4065.72] and holy. -[4067.76 --> 4069.08] Notice what we read. -[4069.88 --> 4071.28] This is good -[4071.28 --> 4072.04] and pleases -[4072.04 --> 4073.08] God our Savior -[4073.08 --> 4073.82] who wants -[4073.82 --> 4074.64] all people -[4074.64 --> 4075.80] to be saved -[4075.80 --> 4076.56] and to come -[4076.56 --> 4077.26] a knowledge -[4077.26 --> 4079.14] of the truth. -[4080.56 --> 4081.66] Right verse 4 -[4081.66 --> 4082.24] God wants -[4082.24 --> 4082.98] all people -[4082.98 --> 4083.68] to be saved -[4083.68 --> 4084.28] and to come -[4084.28 --> 4085.48] to a knowledge -[4085.48 --> 4086.70] of the truth. -[4087.82 --> 4089.88] How you show up -[4089.88 --> 4091.30] in life -[4091.30 --> 4092.36] and at the -[4092.36 --> 4093.22] Thanksgiving table -[4093.22 --> 4094.48] right -[4094.48 --> 4095.44] how you show up -[4095.44 --> 4096.16] with a rightly -[4096.16 --> 4098.26] ordered reality -[4098.26 --> 4099.56] how you pray -[4099.56 --> 4100.88] and how you present -[4100.88 --> 4101.76] the truth -[4101.76 --> 4103.12] all of these -[4103.12 --> 4103.74] are ways -[4103.74 --> 4104.26] that God -[4104.26 --> 4104.96] makes himself -[4104.96 --> 4105.46] known -[4105.46 --> 4106.22] to a new -[4106.22 --> 4106.78] generation -[4106.78 --> 4108.98] and makes himself -[4108.98 --> 4109.92] known to the people -[4109.92 --> 4110.96] at your tables -[4110.96 --> 4112.78] to the people -[4112.78 --> 4113.46] in your offices -[4113.46 --> 4114.64] to the people -[4114.64 --> 4115.48] on your job sites -[4115.48 --> 4115.98] to the people -[4115.98 --> 4116.86] in your dorm rooms -[4116.86 --> 4117.66] to the people -[4117.66 --> 4118.60] on your sports teams. -[4120.28 --> 4121.38] Have the hard -[4121.38 --> 4122.30] conversations -[4122.30 --> 4124.08] and be vigilant -[4124.08 --> 4125.26] for the truth -[4125.26 --> 4125.94] but remember -[4125.94 --> 4126.96] the goal -[4126.96 --> 4127.76] of this command -[4127.76 --> 4128.76] is love. -[4131.12 --> 4132.02] And so as you -[4132.02 --> 4132.68] go into them -[4132.68 --> 4133.92] be specific -[4133.92 --> 4136.38] be particular -[4136.38 --> 4138.18] be bold -[4138.18 --> 4139.46] be grateful -[4139.46 --> 4140.62] in prayer -[4140.62 --> 4143.50] and as you do -[4143.50 --> 4144.56] all of these -[4144.56 --> 4145.58] things -[4145.58 --> 4148.18] as you do -[4148.18 --> 4149.04] all of -[4149.04 --> 4150.24] these things -[4150.24 --> 4151.22] that recognize -[4151.22 --> 4152.02] that real -[4152.02 --> 4152.54] Thanksgiving -[4152.54 --> 4153.88] starts with God -[4153.88 --> 4154.90] and changes -[4154.90 --> 4156.50] our reality -[4156.50 --> 4158.70] as you do -[4158.70 --> 4159.72] all these things -[4159.72 --> 4161.10] may your homes -[4161.10 --> 4163.00] and your hearts -[4163.00 --> 4164.62] be peaceful -[4164.62 --> 4166.28] and quiet -[4166.28 --> 4168.00] in godliness -[4168.00 --> 4169.88] and holiness. -[4170.48 --> 4171.08] Amen. -[4171.72 --> 4172.84] Let's pray together. -[4172.84 --> 4182.50] Lord of the universe -[4182.50 --> 4183.76] today -[4183.76 --> 4184.54] we -[4184.54 --> 4185.48] give -[4185.48 --> 4186.20] you -[4186.20 --> 4187.24] thanks -[4187.24 --> 4188.94] today -[4188.94 --> 4189.66] we give -[4189.66 --> 4190.04] you -[4190.04 --> 4190.98] praise -[4190.98 --> 4192.94] you alone -[4192.94 --> 4193.70] are worthy -[4193.70 --> 4194.52] of our praise -[4194.52 --> 4195.32] we glory -[4195.32 --> 4196.72] in you -[4196.72 --> 4197.30] Lord -[4197.30 --> 4198.04] Jesus -[4198.04 --> 4201.06] open our eyes -[4201.06 --> 4201.80] to the truth -[4201.80 --> 4202.50] of who -[4202.50 --> 4203.18] you -[4203.18 --> 4203.88] are -[4203.88 --> 4205.16] draw -[4205.16 --> 4206.06] our hearts -[4206.06 --> 4207.18] to you -[4207.18 --> 4207.68] today -[4207.68 --> 4208.04] that we -[4208.04 --> 4208.70] might know -[4208.70 --> 4210.22] your love -[4210.22 --> 4213.16] and as we -[4213.16 --> 4213.80] come to the -[4213.80 --> 4214.24] table -[4214.24 --> 4215.98] may this -[4215.98 --> 4216.48] be -[4216.48 --> 4217.14] our -[4217.14 --> 4217.78] true -[4217.78 --> 4218.70] and better -[4218.70 --> 4219.44] Thanksgiving -[4219.44 --> 4220.40] feast -[4220.40 --> 4221.16] because may -[4221.16 --> 4221.84] this be -[4221.84 --> 4222.44] the place -[4222.44 --> 4223.04] where we -[4223.04 --> 4223.74] meet -[4223.74 --> 4224.38] you -[4224.38 --> 4225.04] Lord -[4225.04 --> 4225.40] Jesus -[4225.40 --> 4227.68] and as we -[4227.68 --> 4228.06] meet you -[4228.06 --> 4228.64] here at this -[4228.64 --> 4228.98] table -[4228.98 --> 4229.58] may we go -[4229.58 --> 4230.08] from this -[4230.08 --> 4230.38] place -[4230.38 --> 4230.80] to our -[4230.80 --> 4231.44] other -[4231.44 --> 4232.00] tables -[4232.00 --> 4232.40] to our -[4232.40 --> 4233.00] lesser -[4233.00 --> 4233.70] tables -[4233.70 --> 4234.48] rightly -[4234.48 --> 4235.00] ordered -[4235.00 --> 4235.80] in relationship -[4235.80 --> 4236.36] to you -[4236.36 --> 4237.04] and may -[4237.04 --> 4237.78] others -[4237.78 --> 4238.82] meet you -[4238.82 --> 4239.32] there -[4239.32 --> 4239.86] through -[4239.86 --> 4240.56] us -[4240.56 --> 4241.64] we pray -[4241.64 --> 4242.72] because you -[4242.72 --> 4243.22] have met us -[4243.22 --> 4243.46] here -[4243.46 --> 4245.94] so meet us -[4245.94 --> 4247.78] and send us -[4247.78 --> 4248.76] out in the -[4248.76 --> 4249.56] power of your -[4249.56 --> 4250.28] Holy Spirit -[4250.28 --> 4251.86] in Jesus name -[4251.86 --> 4253.06] Amen -[4253.06 --> 4254.66] Amen -[4254.66 --> 4261.00] we're going -[4261.00 --> 4261.82] to come -[4261.82 --> 4262.48] to the -[4262.48 --> 4263.32] Lord's -[4263.32 --> 4263.62] table -[4263.62 --> 4264.10] together -[4264.10 --> 4265.40] as we -[4265.40 --> 4265.92] do so -[4265.92 --> 4266.36] there will -[4266.36 --> 4267.46] be a -[4267.46 --> 4267.90] liturgy -[4267.90 --> 4268.50] that we -[4268.50 --> 4269.20] go through -[4269.20 --> 4269.64] and that -[4269.64 --> 4269.96] will have -[4269.96 --> 4270.48] portions -[4270.48 --> 4270.92] that you -[4270.92 --> 4271.44] are invited -[4271.44 --> 4272.22] to speak -[4272.22 --> 4273.20] they will -[4273.20 --> 4274.00] be indicated -[4274.00 --> 4274.36] on the -[4274.36 --> 4274.72] screen -[4274.72 --> 4275.82] behind me -[4275.82 --> 4277.44] and we -[4277.44 --> 4277.92] will come -[4277.92 --> 4278.60] together -[4278.60 --> 4279.52] to -[4279.52 --> 4280.78] the table -[4280.78 --> 4282.62] lift up -[4282.62 --> 4283.24] your hearts -[4283.24 --> 4286.80] let us -[4286.80 --> 4287.36] give thanks -[4287.36 --> 4287.68] to the -[4287.68 --> 4288.08] Lord our -[4288.08 --> 4288.44] God -[4288.44 --> 4291.94] let's -[4291.94 --> 4292.12] pray -[4292.12 --> 4292.52] together -[4292.52 --> 4295.74] with joy -[4295.74 --> 4296.48] we praise -[4296.48 --> 4296.84] you -[4296.84 --> 4297.28] gracious -[4297.28 --> 4297.74] God -[4297.74 --> 4298.60] for you -[4298.60 --> 4298.78] have -[4298.78 --> 4299.20] created -[4299.20 --> 4299.50] heaven -[4299.50 --> 4299.90] and earth -[4299.90 --> 4300.44] made us -[4300.44 --> 4300.74] in your -[4300.74 --> 4301.00] image -[4301.00 --> 4301.76] and kept -[4301.76 --> 4302.16] covenant -[4302.16 --> 4302.64] with us -[4302.64 --> 4303.36] even when -[4303.36 --> 4303.84] we fell -[4303.84 --> 4304.36] into sin -[4304.36 --> 4305.90] we give -[4305.90 --> 4306.40] you thanks -[4306.40 --> 4306.92] for Jesus -[4306.92 --> 4307.40] Christ -[4307.40 --> 4308.06] who by -[4308.06 --> 4308.74] his life -[4308.74 --> 4309.16] death -[4309.16 --> 4309.46] and -[4309.46 --> 4309.92] resurrection -[4309.92 --> 4310.80] opened -[4310.80 --> 4311.62] to us -[4311.62 --> 4312.26] the way -[4312.26 --> 4312.92] of life -[4312.92 --> 4313.98] everlasting -[4313.98 --> 4315.48] amen -[4315.48 --> 4321.62] the bread -[4321.62 --> 4322.10] that we -[4322.10 --> 4322.60] break -[4322.60 --> 4323.20] is a -[4323.20 --> 4323.54] sharing -[4323.54 --> 4324.30] in the -[4324.30 --> 4324.66] body -[4324.66 --> 4325.16] of -[4325.16 --> 4325.62] Christ -[4325.62 --> 4330.22] the -[4330.22 --> 4334.56] cup -[4334.56 --> 4335.18] for which -[4335.18 --> 4335.62] we give -[4335.62 --> 4336.12] thanks -[4336.12 --> 4336.62] is a -[4336.62 --> 4337.02] sharing -[4337.02 --> 4337.90] in the -[4337.90 --> 4338.40] blood -[4338.40 --> 4338.94] of -[4338.94 --> 4339.42] Christ -[4339.42 --> 4347.70] therefore -[4347.70 --> 4348.58] we proclaim -[4348.58 --> 4349.86] our faith -[4349.86 --> 4350.68] as signed -[4350.68 --> 4351.50] and sealed -[4351.50 --> 4352.44] in this -[4352.44 --> 4353.40] sacrament -[4353.40 --> 4355.20] Christ -[4355.20 --> 4355.92] has died -[4355.92 --> 4356.86] Christ -[4356.86 --> 4357.48] has risen -[4357.48 --> 4358.52] Christ -[4358.52 --> 4359.08] will come -[4359.08 --> 4359.50] again -[4359.50 --> 4360.48] amen -[4360.48 --> 4365.04] Jesus -[4365.04 --> 4365.74] said -[4365.74 --> 4366.66] I am -[4366.66 --> 4367.22] the bread -[4367.22 --> 4367.88] of life -[4367.88 --> 4368.28] whoever -[4368.28 --> 4368.98] comes -[4368.98 --> 4369.54] to me -[4369.54 --> 4370.10] will never -[4370.10 --> 4370.78] be hungry -[4370.78 --> 4371.56] and whoever -[4371.56 --> 4372.16] believes -[4372.16 --> 4372.68] in me -[4372.68 --> 4373.26] will never -[4373.26 --> 4374.00] be thirsty -[4374.00 --> 4375.54] those -[4375.54 --> 4376.40] who wish -[4376.40 --> 4377.16] to serve -[4377.16 --> 4377.56] him -[4377.56 --> 4378.60] must first -[4378.60 --> 4379.32] be served -[4379.32 --> 4379.98] by him -[4379.98 --> 4381.26] those who -[4381.26 --> 4381.68] want to -[4381.68 --> 4382.46] follow him -[4382.46 --> 4383.24] must first -[4383.24 --> 4383.96] be fed -[4383.96 --> 4385.06] by him -[4385.06 --> 4386.62] for this -[4386.62 --> 4387.26] is the -[4387.26 --> 4387.68] table -[4387.68 --> 4388.58] where God -[4388.58 --> 4389.18] intends -[4389.18 --> 4390.02] us to -[4390.02 --> 4390.36] be -[4390.36 --> 4391.12] nourished -[4391.12 --> 4391.42] this -[4391.42 --> 4391.94] is the -[4391.94 --> 4392.42] time -[4392.42 --> 4392.94] when -[4392.94 --> 4393.40] Christ -[4393.40 --> 4394.00] makes -[4394.00 --> 4394.32] us -[4394.32 --> 4394.64] new -[4394.64 --> 4395.26] and so -[4395.26 --> 4396.04] come -[4396.04 --> 4396.52] you -[4396.52 --> 4397.22] who -[4397.22 --> 4397.62] hunger -[4397.62 --> 4398.32] and thirst -[4398.32 --> 4398.80] for a -[4398.80 --> 4399.06] deeper -[4399.06 --> 4399.54] faith -[4399.54 --> 4400.28] for a -[4400.28 --> 4400.50] better -[4400.50 --> 4400.98] life -[4400.98 --> 4401.62] for a -[4401.62 --> 4402.28] fairer -[4402.28 --> 4402.76] world -[4402.76 --> 4403.88] Jesus -[4403.88 --> 4404.42] Christ -[4404.42 --> 4405.00] who met -[4405.00 --> 4405.36] us -[4405.36 --> 4405.86] in the -[4405.86 --> 4406.22] word -[4406.22 --> 4406.68] now -[4406.68 --> 4407.28] invites -[4407.28 --> 4407.64] us -[4407.64 --> 4408.04] to be -[4408.04 --> 4408.58] guests -[4408.58 --> 4409.20] at -[4409.20 --> 4409.70] his -[4409.70 --> 4410.84] table -[4410.84 --> 4413.28] congregation -[4413.28 --> 4413.84] of Jesus -[4413.84 --> 4414.16] Christ -[4414.16 --> 4414.66] the Lord -[4414.66 --> 4415.34] has prepared -[4415.34 --> 4416.06] his table -[4416.06 --> 4417.14] for all -[4417.14 --> 4417.82] true -[4417.82 --> 4418.58] believers -[4418.58 --> 4419.52] so if you -[4419.52 --> 4419.96] are sorry -[4419.96 --> 4420.38] for your -[4420.38 --> 4420.66] sins -[4420.66 --> 4421.24] and sincerely -[4421.24 --> 4422.06] follow Jesus -[4422.06 --> 4422.48] Christ -[4422.48 --> 4422.94] as your -[4422.94 --> 4423.28] Lord -[4423.28 --> 4423.80] and Savior -[4423.80 --> 4424.62] you are -[4424.62 --> 4425.26] invited to -[4425.26 --> 4425.60] come -[4425.60 --> 4426.84] with gladness -[4426.84 --> 4427.22] to the -[4427.22 --> 4427.72] table -[4427.72 --> 4428.62] of our -[4428.62 --> 4428.90] Lord -[4428.90 --> 4430.30] if you -[4430.30 --> 4431.00] are online -[4431.00 --> 4431.54] you are -[4431.54 --> 4431.84] also -[4431.84 --> 4432.30] invited -[4432.30 --> 4433.30] to join -[4433.30 --> 4433.70] us -[4433.70 --> 4434.08] here -[4434.08 --> 4434.76] if that -[4434.76 --> 4435.90] declaration -[4435.90 --> 4436.58] faith -[4436.58 --> 4437.76] is true -[4437.76 --> 4438.50] for you -[4438.50 --> 4439.08] you're -[4439.08 --> 4439.58] invited to -[4439.58 --> 4440.14] join us -[4440.14 --> 4440.72] from home -[4440.72 --> 4441.66] as well -[4441.66 --> 4442.98] these are -[4442.98 --> 4443.34] the gifts -[4443.34 --> 4443.92] of God -[4443.92 --> 4444.86] for the -[4444.86 --> 4445.20] people -[4445.20 --> 4446.26] of God -[4446.26 --> 4447.98] as we -[4447.98 --> 4448.34] come to -[4448.34 --> 4448.74] the table -[4448.74 --> 4449.18] together -[4449.18 --> 4450.58] we do -[4450.58 --> 4451.26] so in -[4451.26 --> 4451.66] groups -[4451.66 --> 4452.36] that gather -[4452.36 --> 4453.00] in a -[4453.00 --> 4453.28] circle -[4453.28 --> 4453.82] and so -[4453.82 --> 4454.12] we will -[4454.12 --> 4454.82] have a -[4454.82 --> 4455.02] couple -[4455.02 --> 4455.50] ushers -[4455.50 --> 4456.22] who will -[4456.22 --> 4456.56] indicate -[4456.56 --> 4457.00] when it's -[4457.00 --> 4457.36] time for -[4457.36 --> 4457.62] you to -[4457.62 --> 4457.86] come -[4457.86 --> 4458.68] and then -[4458.68 --> 4459.08] you will -[4459.08 --> 4459.78] come up -[4459.78 --> 4460.10] gather -[4460.10 --> 4460.44] in a -[4460.44 --> 4460.68] circle -[4460.68 --> 4461.08] and then -[4461.08 --> 4461.34] you will -[4461.34 --> 4461.72] pass -[4461.72 --> 4462.22] the bread -[4462.22 --> 4462.86] to your -[4462.86 --> 4463.16] left -[4463.16 --> 4463.58] or to -[4463.58 --> 4463.76] your -[4463.76 --> 4464.00] right -[4464.00 --> 4464.24] we -[4464.24 --> 4464.64] encourage -[4464.64 --> 4464.98] you -[4464.98 --> 4465.56] as you -[4465.56 --> 4465.70] are -[4465.70 --> 4466.14] passing -[4466.14 --> 4466.40] the -[4466.40 --> 4466.70] bread -[4466.70 --> 4467.36] to say -[4467.36 --> 4467.66] to the -[4467.66 --> 4467.90] person -[4467.90 --> 4468.30] beside -[4468.30 --> 4468.48] you -[4468.48 --> 4468.96] the body -[4468.96 --> 4469.56] of Christ -[4469.56 --> 4470.06] given -[4470.06 --> 4470.56] for you -[4470.56 --> 4471.76] and likewise -[4471.76 --> 4472.28] as you -[4472.28 --> 4472.66] pass -[4472.66 --> 4473.32] the juice -[4473.32 --> 4473.76] to say -[4473.76 --> 4474.20] the blood -[4474.20 --> 4474.82] of Christ -[4474.82 --> 4475.34] shed -[4475.34 --> 4476.24] for you -[4476.24 --> 4477.30] if you're -[4477.30 --> 4477.88] unable to -[4477.88 --> 4478.20] come to -[4478.20 --> 4478.60] the front -[4478.60 --> 4479.32] please indicate -[4479.32 --> 4479.84] that to -[4479.84 --> 4480.28] the usher -[4480.28 --> 4480.54] and they -[4480.54 --> 4481.00] will serve -[4481.00 --> 4481.42] you in -[4481.42 --> 4481.92] your seat -[4481.92 --> 4482.74] they will -[4482.74 --> 4483.08] meet you -[4483.08 --> 4483.34] there -[4483.34 --> 4484.90] and provide -[4484.90 --> 4485.94] for your -[4485.94 --> 4486.66] participation -[4486.66 --> 4487.06] in that -[4487.06 --> 4487.26] way -[4487.26 --> 4488.28] and then -[4488.28 --> 4488.64] also -[4488.64 --> 4489.20] if you -[4489.20 --> 4489.58] are -[4489.58 --> 4490.46] looking to -[4490.46 --> 4490.98] participate -[4490.98 --> 4491.72] with gluten -[4491.72 --> 4492.40] free bread -[4492.40 --> 4492.84] that is -[4492.84 --> 4493.26] available -[4493.26 --> 4494.08] either in -[4494.08 --> 4494.54] the center -[4494.54 --> 4495.44] of each -[4495.44 --> 4495.90] tray -[4495.90 --> 4496.42] or if you -[4496.42 --> 4496.76] need it -[4496.76 --> 4497.02] to be -[4497.02 --> 4497.54] absolutely -[4497.54 --> 4498.18] separated -[4498.18 --> 4499.02] we have -[4499.02 --> 4499.36] a second -[4499.36 --> 4499.62] tray -[4499.62 --> 4500.02] up here -[4500.02 --> 4500.70] for your -[4500.70 --> 4501.04] needs -[4501.04 --> 4501.72] there -[4501.72 --> 4503.00] I'm going -[4503.00 --> 4503.36] to invite -[4503.36 --> 4503.82] the worship -[4503.82 --> 4504.16] leaders -[4504.16 --> 4504.48] and the -[4504.48 --> 4504.76] serving -[4504.76 --> 4505.08] elders -[4505.08 --> 4505.64] to come -[4505.64 --> 4506.02] forward -[4506.02 --> 4506.62] they will -[4506.62 --> 4507.14] participate -[4507.14 --> 4507.64] in the -[4507.64 --> 4507.96] first -[4507.96 --> 4508.44] table -[4508.44 --> 4508.96] and then -[4508.96 --> 4510.02] they will -[4510.02 --> 4510.40] lead us -[4510.40 --> 4510.94] in singing -[4510.94 --> 4511.54] as we -[4511.54 --> 4511.92] wait for -[4511.92 --> 4512.42] our turn -[4512.42 --> 4513.44] and time -[4513.44 --> 4513.76] to come -[4513.76 --> 4514.04] forward -[4514.04 --> 4514.38] and so -[4514.38 --> 4515.00] ushers -[4515.00 --> 4515.98] worship -[4515.98 --> 4516.52] volunteers -[4516.52 --> 4517.56] would you -[4517.56 --> 4517.90] come to -[4517.90 --> 4518.30] the front -[4518.30 --> 4519.18] and we -[4519.18 --> 4519.74] can participate -[4519.74 --> 4520.14] together -[4528.18 --> 4529.96] and -[4531.36 --> 4532.64] help -[4532.64 --> 4533.48] the -[4535.64 --> 4536.02] 庭 -[4536.02 --> 4536.48] can -[4536.48 --> 4536.56] run -[4536.56 --> 4537.10] the -[4537.10 --> 4537.52] ORT -[4537.76 --> 4538.02] great -[4538.02 --> 4538.28] and -[4538.28 --> 4538.48] 香 -[4538.48 --> 4538.98] kas -[4538.98 --> 4539.24] Thanks -[4539.24 --> 4540.80] to -[4540.80 --> 4541.16] the -[4541.78 --> 4542.16] and -[4542.16 --> 4542.72] K -[4542.72 --> 4543.56] tuned -[4543.92 --> 4544.58] that -[4544.60 --> 4544.78] May -[4544.78 --> 4545.08] this -[4545.72 --> 4545.78] time -[4545.78 --> 4546.34] and -[4546.34 --> 4546.80] each -[4546.80 --> 4546.98] time -[4546.98 --> 4547.40] and -[4547.40 --> 4549.68] 相 -[4549.74 --> 4550.30] you -[4551.96 --> 4554.12] I -[4554.24 --> 4554.66] ever -[4554.66 --> 4555.22] is -[4555.22 --> 4556.42] is -[4556.42 --> 4556.90] oh -[4556.90 --> 4557.62] I -[4557.62 --> 4557.66] I -[4557.66 --> 4587.64] Thank you. -[4587.66 --> 4617.64] Thank you. -[4617.66 --> 4647.64] Thank you. -[4647.66 --> 4677.64] Thank you. -[4677.66 --> 4707.64] Thank you. -[4707.66 --> 4737.64] Thank you. -[4737.66 --> 4767.64] Thank you. -[4767.66 --> 4797.64] Thank you. -[4797.66 --> 4827.64] Thank you. -[4827.66 --> 4857.64] Thank you. -[4857.66 --> 4887.64] Thank you. -[4887.66 --> 4917.64] Thank you. -[4917.66 --> 4947.64] Thank you. -[4947.64 --> 4977.62] Thank you. -[4977.62 --> 5007.60] Thank you. -[5007.62 --> 5037.60] Thank you. -[5037.62 --> 5067.60] Thank you. -[5067.62 --> 5097.60] Thank you. -[5097.62 --> 5127.60] Thank you. -[5127.62 --> 5157.60] Thank you. -[5157.62 --> 5187.60] Thank you. -[5187.62 --> 5217.60] Thank you. -[5217.62 --> 5247.60] Thank you. -[5247.62 --> 5277.60] Thank you. -[5277.60 --> 5307.58] Thank you. -[5307.58 --> 5337.56] Thank you. -[5337.58 --> 5367.56] Thank you. -[5367.56 --> 5397.54] Thank you. -[5397.54 --> 5427.52] Thank you. -[5427.54 --> 5457.52] Thank you. -[5457.52 --> 5487.50] Thank you. -[5487.50 --> 5517.48] Thank you. -[5517.50 --> 5547.48] Thank you. -[5547.48 --> 5577.46] Thank you. -[5577.48 --> 5607.46] Thank you. -[5607.46 --> 5637.44] Thank you. -[5637.46 --> 5667.44] Thank you. -[5667.44 --> 5697.42] Thank you. -[5697.42 --> 5727.40] Thank you. -[5727.42 --> 5757.40] Thank you. -[5757.40 --> 5787.38] Thank you. -[5787.38 --> 5817.36] Thank you. -[5817.38 --> 5847.36] Thank you. -[5847.38 --> 5877.36] Thank you. -[5877.36 --> 5907.36] Thank you. -[5907.36 --> 5937.34] Thank you. -[5937.34 --> 5967.32] Amen. -[5967.32 --> 5997.30] Thank you. -[5997.32 --> 6027.30] Thank you. -[6027.32 --> 6057.30] Thank you. -[6057.32 --> 6087.30] Thank you. -[6087.32 --> 6117.30] Thank you. -[6117.32 --> 6147.30] Thank you. -[6147.30 --> 6177.28] Thank you. -[6177.30 --> 6207.28] Thank you. -[6207.30 --> 6237.28] Thank you. -[6237.30 --> 6267.28] Thank you. -[6267.30 --> 6297.28] Thank you. -[6297.30 --> 6327.28] Thank you. -[6327.30 --> 6357.28] Thank you. -[6357.28 --> 6387.26] Thank you. -[6387.26 --> 6417.24] Thank you. -[6417.26 --> 6447.26] Thank you. -[6447.26 --> 6477.24] Thank you. -[6477.26 --> 6507.24] Thank you. -[6507.26 --> 6537.24] Thank you. -[6537.26 --> 6567.24] Thank you. -[6567.26 --> 6597.24] Thank you. -[6597.26 --> 6627.24] Thank you. -[6627.26 --> 6657.24] Thank you. -[6657.26 --> 6687.24] Thank you. -[6687.26 --> 6717.24] Thank you. -[6717.26 --> 6747.24] Thank you. -[6747.26 --> 6777.24] Thank you. -[6777.26 --> 6807.24] Thank you. -[6807.26 --> 6837.24] Thank you. -[6837.26 --> 6867.24] Thank you. -[6867.26 --> 6897.24] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, October 19, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, October 19, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 1975cc91bbe7daad453c156ae8371284772aa1c0..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, October 19, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,8 +0,0 @@ -• Worship service -• Invitation to come out of the church -• Singing and praising God -• Recitation of "God is a little" repeated multiple times -• Repetition of the phrase "God is a little" -• No additional context or meaningful information provided beyond the repeated phrase -• The concept of God being likened to "a little" -• Repetition of the phrase "God is a little" at regular intervals \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, October 19, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, October 19, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index e42b4713ca3392de65f21e319b88eae9b114281b..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, October 19, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,231 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[299.98 --> 329.96] Thank you. -[329.98 --> 359.96] Thank you. -[359.98 --> 389.96] Thank you. -[389.98 --> 419.96] Thank you. -[419.98 --> 449.96] Thank you. -[449.98 --> 479.96] Thank you. -[479.98 --> 509.96] Thank you. -[509.98 --> 539.96] Thank you. -[539.98 --> 569.96] Thank you. -[569.98 --> 599.96] Thank you. -[599.98 --> 629.96] Thank you. -[629.96 --> 659.94] Thank you. -[659.94 --> 689.92] Thank you. -[689.92 --> 719.90] Thank you. -[719.92 --> 749.90] Thank you. -[749.90 --> 779.88] Thank you. -[779.88 --> 809.86] Good morning. -[809.86 --> 839.84] Welcome to worship. -[839.84 --> 869.82] Thank you. -[869.84 --> 869.86] -[899.84 --> 929.82] Thank you. -[929.82 --> 959.80] If you're in the church -[959.80 --> 989.78] come on out, -[989.80 --> 1019.78] Thank you. -[1019.80 --> 1049.78] Thank you. -[1049.80 --> 1079.78] Amen. -[1079.78 --> 1109.76] Thank you. -[1109.78 --> 1139.76] Thank you. -[1139.76 --> 1169.74] Thank you. -[1169.74 --> 1199.72] All right. -[1199.74 --> 1229.72] Thank you. -[1229.74 --> 1259.72] Thank you. -[1259.74 --> 1289.72] Thank you. -[1289.72 --> 1319.70] Thank you. -[1319.72 --> 1349.70] Thank you. -[1349.72 --> 1379.70] Thank you. -[1379.72 --> 1409.70] I love you. -[1409.72 --> 1439.70] I will sing. -[1439.72 --> 1469.70] I will sing. -[1469.72 --> 1499.70] I will sing. -[1499.72 --> 1529.70] I have you. -[1529.70 --> 1559.68] I will sing. -[1559.68 --> 1589.66] Your goodness. -[1589.66 --> 1619.64] This is running after me. -[1619.64 --> 1649.62] I will sing. -[1649.62 --> 1679.60] I will sing. -[1679.60 --> 1709.58] We have sung. -[1709.58 --> 1739.56] How long. -[1739.56 --> 1769.54] Before the earth. -[1769.54 --> 1799.52] I will sing. -[1799.52 --> 1829.50] I will sing. -[1829.50 --> 1859.48] When the wind. -[1859.48 --> 1889.46] How long. -[1889.46 --> 1919.44] I will sing. -[1919.44 --> 1949.42] I will sing. -[1949.42 --> 1979.40] God is God. -[1979.40 --> 2009.38] He is. -[2009.38 --> 2039.36] God is able. -[2039.36 --> 2069.34] God is with us. -[2069.34 --> 2099.32] God is. -[2099.32 --> 2129.30] God is with us. -[2129.30 --> 2159.28] He's lifted up. -[2159.28 --> 2189.26] God is a praise. -[2189.26 --> 2219.24] God is able. -[2219.24 --> 2249.22] God is a little. -[2249.22 --> 2279.20] God is. -[2279.20 --> 2309.18] God is a promise. -[2309.18 --> 2339.16] God is a little. -[2339.16 --> 2369.14] God is a little. -[2369.14 --> 2399.12] God is a little. -[2399.12 --> 2429.10] God is a little. -[2429.10 --> 2459.08] God is a little. -[2459.08 --> 2489.06] God is a little. -[2489.06 --> 2519.04] God is a little. -[2519.04 --> 2549.02] God is a little. -[2549.02 --> 2579.00] God is a little. -[2579.00 --> 2608.98] God is a little. -[2608.98 --> 2638.96] God is a little. -[2638.96 --> 2668.94] God is a little. -[2668.94 --> 2698.92] God is a little. -[2698.94 --> 2728.92] God is a little. -[2728.92 --> 2758.90] God is a little. -[2758.90 --> 2788.88] God is a little. -[2788.88 --> 2818.86] God is a little. -[2818.86 --> 2848.84] God is a little. -[2848.86 --> 2878.84] God is a little. -[2878.86 --> 2908.84] God is a little. -[2908.86 --> 2938.84] God is a little. -[2938.84 --> 2968.82] God is a little. -[2968.82 --> 2998.80] God is a little. -[2998.80 --> 3028.78] God is a little. -[3028.78 --> 3058.76] God is a little. -[3058.76 --> 3088.74] God is a little. -[3088.74 --> 3118.72] God is a little. -[3118.74 --> 3148.72] God is a little. -[3148.72 --> 3178.70] God is a little. -[3178.72 --> 3208.68] God is a little. -[3208.68 --> 3238.66] God is a little. -[3238.66 --> 3268.64] God is a little. -[3268.64 --> 3298.62] God is a little. -[3298.62 --> 3328.60] God is a little. -[3328.60 --> 3358.58] God is a little. -[3358.58 --> 3388.56] God is a little. -[3388.56 --> 3418.54] God is a little. -[3418.54 --> 3448.52] God is a little. -[3448.52 --> 3478.50] God is a little. -[3478.50 --> 3508.48] God is a little. -[3508.48 --> 3538.46] God is a little. -[3538.46 --> 3568.44] God is a little. -[3568.44 --> 3598.42] God is a little. -[3598.42 --> 3628.40] God is a little. -[3628.40 --> 3658.38] God is a little. -[3658.38 --> 3688.36] God is a little. -[3688.36 --> 3718.34] God is a little. -[3718.34 --> 3748.32] God is a little. -[3748.32 --> 3778.30] God is a little. -[3778.30 --> 3808.28] God is a little. -[3808.28 --> 3838.26] God is a little. -[3838.26 --> 3868.24] God is a little. -[3868.24 --> 3898.22] God is a little. -[3898.22 --> 3928.20] God is a little. -[3928.20 --> 3958.18] God is a little. -[3958.18 --> 3988.16] God is a little. -[3988.16 --> 4018.14] God is a little. -[4018.14 --> 4048.12] God is a little. -[4048.12 --> 4078.10] God is a little. -[4078.12 --> 4108.10] God is a little. -[4108.10 --> 4138.08] God is a little. -[4138.08 --> 4168.06] God is a little. -[4168.06 --> 4198.04] God is a little. -[4198.04 --> 4228.02] God is a little. -[4228.02 --> 4258.00] God is a little. -[4258.00 --> 4287.98] God is a little. -[4287.98 --> 4317.96] God is a little. -[4317.96 --> 4347.94] God is a little. -[4347.96 --> 4377.92] God is a little. -[4377.92 --> 4407.90] God is a little. -[4407.90 --> 4437.88] God is a little. -[4437.90 --> 4467.86] God is a little. -[4467.86 --> 4497.84] God is a little. -[4497.84 --> 4527.82] God is a little. -[4527.82 --> 4557.80] God is a little. -[4557.80 --> 4587.78] God is a little. -[4587.78 --> 4617.76] God is a little. -[4617.78 --> 4647.76] God is a little. -[4647.76 --> 4677.74] God is a little. -[4677.74 --> 4707.72] God is a little. -[4707.72 --> 4737.70] God is a little. -[4737.70 --> 4767.68] God is a little. -[4767.70 --> 4797.66] God is a little. -[4797.66 --> 4827.64] God is a little. -[4827.64 --> 4857.62] God is a little. -[4857.62 --> 4887.60] God is a little. -[4887.60 --> 4917.58] God is a little. -[4917.58 --> 4947.56] God is a little. -[4947.56 --> 4977.54] God is a little. -[4977.54 --> 5007.52] God is a little. -[5007.52 --> 5037.50] God is a little. -[5037.50 --> 5067.48] God is a little. -[5067.48 --> 5097.46] God is a little. -[5097.46 --> 5127.44] God is a little. -[5127.64 --> 5157.42] God is a little. -[5157.42 --> 5187.40] God is a little. -[5187.44 --> 5217.40] God is a little. -[5217.40 --> 5247.38] God is a little. -[5247.38 --> 5277.36] God is a little. -[5277.36 --> 5307.34] God is a little. -[5307.34 --> 5337.32] God is a little. -[5337.32 --> 5367.30] God is a little. -[5367.30 --> 5397.28] God is a little. -[5397.28 --> 5427.26] God is a little. -[5427.26 --> 5457.24] God is a little. -[5457.24 --> 5487.22] God is a little. -[5487.22 --> 5517.20] God is a little. -[5517.22 --> 5547.18] God is a little. -[5547.20 --> 5577.16] God is a little. -[5577.16 --> 5607.14] God is a little. -[5607.14 --> 5637.12] God is a little. -[5637.12 --> 5667.10] God is a little. -[5667.10 --> 5697.08] God is a little. -[5697.08 --> 5727.06] God is a little. -[5727.06 --> 5757.04] God is a little. -[5757.04 --> 5787.02] God is a little. -[5787.02 --> 5817.00] God is a little. -[5817.00 --> 5846.98] God is a little. -[5846.98 --> 5876.96] God is a little. -[5876.96 --> 5906.94] God is a little. -[5906.94 --> 5936.92] God is a little. -[5936.92 --> 5966.90] God is a little. -[5966.90 --> 5996.88] God is a little. -[5996.88 --> 6026.86] God is a little. -[6026.86 --> 6056.84] God is a little. -[6056.84 --> 6086.82] God is a little. -[6086.82 --> 6116.80] God is a little. -[6116.80 --> 6146.78] God is a little. -[6146.78 --> 6176.76] God is a little. -[6176.76 --> 6206.74] God is a little. -[6206.74 --> 6236.72] God is a little. -[6236.72 --> 6266.70] God is a little. -[6266.70 --> 6296.68] God is a little. -[6296.68 --> 6326.66] God is a little. -[6326.66 --> 6356.64] God is a little. -[6356.64 --> 6386.62] God is a little. -[6386.64 --> 6416.62] God is a little. -[6416.62 --> 6446.60] God is a little. -[6446.60 --> 6476.58] God is a little. -[6476.58 --> 6506.56] God is a little. -[6506.56 --> 6536.54] God is a little. -[6536.56 --> 6566.54] God is a little. -[6566.54 --> 6596.52] God is a little. -[6596.54 --> 6626.52] God is a little. -[6626.52 --> 6656.50] God is a little. -[6656.52 --> 6686.50] God is a little. -[6686.52 --> 6716.50] God is a little. -[6716.52 --> 6746.50] God is a little. -[6746.50 --> 6776.48] God is a little. -[6776.48 --> 6806.46] God is a little. -[6806.46 --> 6836.44] God is a little. -[6836.44 --> 6866.42] God is a little. -[6866.42 --> 6896.40] God is a little. -[6896.40 --> 6926.38] God is a little. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, October 26, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, October 26, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f5896a43c2db505e274d7880f1f9fd3493db12da..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, October 26, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,76 +0,0 @@ -• Recitation of prayers and hymns -• Repetition of phrases such as "God, you're the name of God" and "Lord, have mercy" -• Reference to Jesus and Christ -• Mention of forgiveness and mercy -• Reading of a hymn: "In Christ Alone" -• Allison, a deacon from the church, updates about Jody and Uriel in Mexico who are experiencing difficulties with their property due to flooding. -• The church plans to help them through their organization C10 by providing financial assistance for equipment and rebuilding. -• Allison announces today's offering to support the church's benevolence fund, which assists members and community members in need. -• A discussion about the benefits of rest and sleep, referencing Ecclesiastes 3. -• A pop-up poll among children to determine their favorite season. -• The speaker asks congregation members to identify themselves as their favorite season: fall, winter, spring, or summer -• Congregation members are asked to stand up and raise their hand if they like a particular season -• The speaker becomes confused about who has been assigned to which season, particularly with regards to fall and summer -• An elder, Clary, takes over the service and leads in church family prayer -• Clary announces several items including an upcoming ordination service, budget planning season, and meetings of classes -• The nature of free will and responsibility in humans -• Gratitude for new life (Ruth, baby girl) -• Updates on health and well-being: - • Kevin's exam and ordination - • Carolyn's recovery from injuries - • Tessa's lung improvement -• Requests for continued healing and support -• Blessing and gratitude for foster families -• Addressing strained or broken relationships within families -• Asking for help in remembering that love can be hard work, time is precious, and we're not promised tomorrow -• Courage and reconciliation in difficult circumstances -• Peace in the world, specifically asking leaders of conflicts to seek real peace -• Restoration and justice through God's church -• Time management and productivity -• Obsession with tracking time and steps -• Futility of mastering time through planning or technology -• Longing for a timeless existence -• The concept of God's death and its implications on human destiny -• Meaninglessness in a world without God -• The nature of faith vs empirical observation -• The distinction between religious and scientific thought -• The concept of God in modern spiritualism vs the Bible -• Ecclesiastes 3 as an example of a methodological approach to understanding God's providence -• The idea that God's providence rules all time, rather than being determined by human control -• The futility of trying to master or change time and its events -• The cyclical nature of life and the balance between opposing forces -• The limits of human understanding and control -• The existence of beauty in the world, despite its incomprehensibility -• The distinction between comprehension and apprehension -• Faith as a necessary completion of knowledge -• The role of God's providence in giving meaning to time and life -• The tension between empirical knowledge and creedal affirmations -• Belief and faith open our eyes to see beyond what reason can comprehend -• Time is fleeting, but God holds it forever and makes everything beautiful in its time -• Human work is temporary, but God's work endures forever and provides meaning to all things -• The fear of the Lord is reverence, not terror, which leads to worship and rest in the limits of time -• Joy is a confession that God's providence is real even in transience and brokenness -• Freedom is found in receiving time, not mastering it, and joy is the fruit of surrender -• The gospel reveals the beauty of God fully in Jesus Christ, who lived with perfect trust in the Father's timing -• The cross is the ultimate answer to humanity's struggle with time and its meaning -• God works even when things seem impossible or senseless, and brings beauty out of chaos -• Jesus' resurrection confirms this truth and redeems all of human experience -• Time belongs to God, who has a good plan and timing that may not align with ours -• Living in the fear of the Lord means receiving each day as a gift and holding everything loosely -• The gospel changes our perspective on time and frees us from trying to control it -• Confessing that our time is God's time shapes every part of life, from planning to suffering to celebration -• Worship and prayer -• Praise of God's majesty, beauty, and power -• Reflection on time and eternity -• Testimony of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior -• Invitation to adore and worship God -• Blessing and protection from God for the journey of life and faith -• Encouragement to gather in fellowship and receive God's blessing -• Praise and worship music -• Lyrics mention salvation, glory, honor, and power -• Repetition of phrase "You are wonderful" -• Mention of Cinderella -• Unintelligible phrases in another language ("N pensa grande e tal plan") -• Interjections of joy and laughter ("ho ho ho") -• Reference to a person named Acosta -• Repeated expression of gratitude ("Thank you") \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, October 26, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, October 26, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f1539c13ac63480781ca2b19de70ce73765ab427..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, October 26, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1081 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 599.98] Thank you. -[600.00 --> 629.98] Thank you. -[630.00 --> 659.98] Thank you. -[660.00 --> 689.98] Thank you. -[690.00 --> 719.98] Thank you. -[720.00 --> 749.98] Thank you. -[750.00 --> 779.98] Thank you. -[780.00 --> 809.98] Good morning. -[809.98 --> 839.96] Good morning. -[839.96 --> 869.94] Thank you. -[869.96 --> 899.94] Thank you. -[899.96 --> 929.94] Thank you. -[929.96 --> 959.96] Thank you. -[959.96 --> 989.94] Thank you. -[989.94 --> 1019.92] Thank you. -[1019.94 --> 1049.92] Thank you. -[1049.94 --> 1079.92] Good morning. -[1079.92 --> 1109.90] We come to God. -[1109.90 --> 1139.88] Thank you. -[1139.88 --> 1169.86] Come. -[1169.88 --> 1199.86] Just as you are. -[1199.86 --> 1229.84] Now is the time to give you. -[1229.84 --> 1259.82] One day. -[1259.82 --> 1289.80] God, you're the time to give you. -[1289.80 --> 1319.78] Great is the name of God. -[1319.78 --> 1349.76] Thank you. -[1349.78 --> 1379.76] All I have to say, -[1379.76 --> 1409.74] God, you're the name of God. -[1409.76 --> 1439.74] God, you're the name of God. -[1439.74 --> 1469.72] God, you're the name of God. -[1469.72 --> 1499.70] God, you're the name of God. -[1499.70 --> 1529.68] God, you're the name of God. -[1529.68 --> 1559.66] forgive us, forgive us, you're the name of God. -[1559.66 --> 1589.64] Jesus, I've the name of God. -[1589.66 --> 1619.64] God, you're the name of God. -[1619.66 --> 1649.64] Lord, have mercy, Lord, have mercy. -[1649.64 --> 1679.62] God, you're the name of God. -[1679.62 --> 1709.60] God, you're the name of God. -[1709.60 --> 1711.60] God, you're the name of God. -[1739.60 --> 1741.60] God, you're the name of God. -[1769.60 --> 1771.60] Lord, have mercy, you're the name of God, you're the name of God. -[1771.60 --> 1775.60] Lord, have mercy, Lord, have mercy on us. -[1775.60 --> 1786.60] Christ, have mercy on us. -[1786.60 --> 1788.60] hear this promise from you, God, you're the name of God. -[1816.60 --> 1818.60] God, you're the name of God, you're the name of God. -[1818.60 --> 1820.60] Thanks be to God. -[1820.60 --> 1821.60] God, you're the name of God. -[1821.60 --> 1822.60] God, you're the name of God. -[1822.60 --> 1824.60] God, you're the name of God. -[1824.60 --> 1828.60] God, you're the name of God. -[1828.60 --> 1830.60] God, you're the name of God. -[1830.60 --> 1832.60] God, you're the name of God. -[1832.60 --> 1834.60] God, you're the name of God. -[1834.60 --> 1836.60] God, you're the name of God. -[1836.60 --> 1838.60] God, you're the name of God. -[1838.60 --> 1840.60] God, you're the name of God. -[1840.60 --> 1842.60] God, you're the name of God. -[1842.86 --> 1843.60] God, you're the name of God. -[1843.60 --> 1845.60] By ق essa знает's moral, Yets are God, I'm somebody whoм. -[1845.60 --> 1846.60] God, you're the name of God. -[1846.60 --> 1847.60] God, we shine for the death of God. -[1847.60 --> 1849.60] Good give praise God, you're the name of God. -[1849.60 --> 1850.60] I know Amen. -[1850.60 --> 1855.60] Good STEVE LIGHT -[1855.60 --> 1860.60] Happy now加入 Now Skip -[1860.60 --> 1874.60] When striving seems my comforter, my all in all, here in the love of Christ I stand. -[1874.60 --> 1892.60] In Christ alone, who took on flesh, fullness of God in helpless faith, -[1892.60 --> 1903.00] this gift of love and righteousness, scorned by the ones he came to save. -[1903.00 --> 1912.50] Till on that cross, as Jesus died, the wrath of God was satisfied. -[1912.50 --> 1923.76] For every sin on him was laid, here in the death of Christ I live. -[1933.00 --> 1942.50] There in the ground his body lay, light of the world by darkness slain. -[1942.50 --> 1952.50] Then bursting forth in glorious day, up from the grave he rose again. -[1952.50 --> 1962.50] And as he stands in victory, sin's curse has lost its grip on me. -[1962.50 --> 1973.50] For I am his, and he is mine, bought with the precious blood of Christ. -[1973.50 --> 1992.50] No guilt in life, no fear in death, this is the power of Christ in me. -[1992.50 --> 2002.00] From life's first cry to final breath, Jesus commands my destiny. -[2002.00 --> 2012.00] No power of hell, no scheme of man, can ever pluck me from his hand. -[2012.00 --> 2022.00] Till he returns, or calls me home, here in the power of Christ I'll stand. -[2022.00 --> 2033.38] No power of hell, no scheme of man, can ever pluck me from his hand. -[2033.38 --> 2042.36] Till he returns, or calls me home, here in the power of Christ I'll stand. -[2042.36 --> 2043.36] I'll stand. -[2071.14 --> 2072.24] Good morning. -[2072.24 --> 2078.16] My name is Allison and I am one of the deacons here at the church. -[2078.16 --> 2085.74] Before I get into the offerings for today, I just have a quick update about Jody and -[2085.74 --> 2089.28] Uriel in Mexico. -[2089.28 --> 2095.28] You heard last week about the situation with their property that they're moving to, the -[2095.28 --> 2098.96] flood that wiped out a retaining wall. -[2098.96 --> 2103.16] They need to rebuild that wall before they can move there. -[2103.16 --> 2109.00] So they are able to stay where they are for now. -[2109.00 --> 2115.96] There are plans for excavation and rebuilding and equipment. -[2115.96 --> 2121.78] Things are underway underway about bringing equipment. -[2121.78 --> 2126.32] And of course, the work and the equipment need finances. -[2126.32 --> 2134.72] So the church would love to help in some way to ease that burden for them through their organization, -[2134.72 --> 2136.88] C10. -[2136.88 --> 2144.20] So stay tuned for more information, which will be coming out hopefully this week in an email -[2144.20 --> 2148.38] with more details on how you can help. -[2148.38 --> 2154.10] So today's offering, as well as just the running of the church and all the bills that have to -[2154.10 --> 2165.98] be paid for that, we are, I'm speaking on behalf of our benevolence fund, which the deacons have -[2165.98 --> 2170.30] charge of, that's not quite the right term, but we manage that fund. -[2170.30 --> 2178.02] And we are able to assist people in our congregation and in the community who need some help at various -[2178.02 --> 2180.28] times of their lives. -[2180.28 --> 2185.10] We have some new needs that have come up lately. -[2185.10 --> 2189.42] So please give generously as the Lord has given to you. -[2189.42 --> 2190.46] Thank you very much. -[2208.02 --> 2238.00] Thank you very much. -[2238.02 --> 2268.00] Thank you very much. -[2268.02 --> 2298.00] Thank you very much. -[2298.02 --> 2299.02] Thank you. -[2299.02 --> 2300.02] Thank you very much. -[2300.02 --> 2305.02] Thank you. -[2305.02 --> 2309.02] Thank you. -[2309.02 --> 2314.02] Thank you. -[2314.02 --> 2316.02] Thank you. -[2316.02 --> 2326.02] Thank you. -[2326.02 --> 2328.02] Thank you. -[2328.02 --> 2330.02] Thank you. -[2330.02 --> 2335.66] And a light unto my path. -[2336.42 --> 2341.44] Thy word is a lamp unto my feet. -[2341.44 --> 2347.26] And a light unto my path. -[2347.58 --> 2353.40] You're the light unto my path. -[2360.02 --> 2371.14] Can I have all the Children's Worship Time kids up front, please? -[2384.18 --> 2385.40] Fine looking bunch. -[2385.48 --> 2385.98] Good morning. -[2385.98 --> 2386.04] Good morning. -[2388.88 --> 2392.36] I know I'm one of the older guys up here that does this, and my hearing's not so good. -[2392.40 --> 2394.46] Do you think you guys can say good morning a little louder for me? -[2394.52 --> 2394.96] Good morning. -[2395.36 --> 2396.26] Good morning. -[2396.92 --> 2398.02] Very, very good. -[2398.40 --> 2399.28] Wow, that's good. -[2399.34 --> 2399.88] That's great. -[2401.18 --> 2402.74] How are you guys all doing? -[2403.60 --> 2403.92] Good. -[2404.74 --> 2406.62] Well, I've been away from this for about a year. -[2406.68 --> 2410.98] I took a little bit of a break, so I'm back again, so I get to see you guys a bit more. -[2411.04 --> 2412.40] So that's going to be exciting for me. -[2412.40 --> 2417.76] Today, the big people in the church are going to be talking about in, Pastor Chris is going -[2417.76 --> 2422.24] to preach on Ecclesiastes 3, and it's talking about a time for everything. -[2424.88 --> 2426.38] And a time for other things. -[2426.52 --> 2427.96] So let me ask you a question. -[2428.06 --> 2430.14] Is it good that you guys sleep all the time? -[2431.26 --> 2434.56] So is it a good time to wake up and kind of go to school and do stuff? -[2434.60 --> 2435.74] You want to sleep all the time? -[2436.12 --> 2437.02] You like sleeping? -[2437.44 --> 2437.98] That's good. -[2437.98 --> 2440.66] I like sleeping too, but sometimes I get tired. -[2441.28 --> 2442.58] Sometimes you get tired of sleeping? -[2443.40 --> 2443.96] That's good. -[2444.64 --> 2445.36] Well, guess what? -[2445.42 --> 2447.10] Does anybody know what the seasons are? -[2447.28 --> 2449.08] Does anybody know anything about seasons? -[2449.30 --> 2450.60] What season are we in right now? -[2450.66 --> 2451.10] Does anybody know? -[2451.14 --> 2451.30] Yeah. -[2452.80 --> 2453.42] Not quite. -[2453.48 --> 2454.18] What season are we in? -[2454.66 --> 2454.98] Fall. -[2455.98 --> 2458.40] So this is a good example of there's a time for everything. -[2458.50 --> 2459.50] There's a time for fall. -[2459.62 --> 2460.56] There's a time for winter. -[2460.80 --> 2461.90] There's a time for spring. -[2462.04 --> 2464.70] And there's a time for summer. -[2465.20 --> 2468.00] I want to do a pop-up poll with the congregation here. -[2468.10 --> 2470.76] Who in this group right here amongst the kids likes winter? -[2471.14 --> 2471.78] I need a volunteer. -[2472.00 --> 2472.56] Who likes winter? -[2472.88 --> 2474.06] Can you come up front for me? -[2474.94 --> 2475.26] All right. -[2475.78 --> 2477.74] Can you stand up top there on the thing? -[2477.86 --> 2480.00] Who likes fall? -[2480.24 --> 2481.06] It's one of my favorite. -[2481.18 --> 2482.18] You want to be fall? -[2482.26 --> 2482.88] You can go up front. -[2484.76 --> 2486.20] I got a winter guy already. -[2486.30 --> 2487.24] Do you want? -[2487.24 --> 2488.62] I need a spring person. -[2489.04 --> 2489.84] Do you want to be spring? -[2489.84 --> 2492.46] And which one am I missing? -[2492.62 --> 2493.24] I got winter. -[2493.86 --> 2495.24] I need a summer person. -[2495.40 --> 2496.24] The kids got a love. -[2496.30 --> 2497.00] You want to be summer? -[2497.32 --> 2497.88] Go up front. -[2499.24 --> 2499.70] Okay. -[2499.74 --> 2501.92] We're going to test the congregation right now. -[2502.14 --> 2507.34] We're going to find out who in this congregation likes what season the best. -[2507.48 --> 2508.52] You're my what guy? -[2509.20 --> 2509.54] Winter. -[2509.78 --> 2511.02] Who here likes winter? -[2511.24 --> 2512.10] Put your hand up. -[2513.12 --> 2513.56] Oh. -[2514.84 --> 2518.24] A lot of the gray hairs, I think they escape winter, go down south. -[2518.24 --> 2521.54] What season were you? -[2521.78 --> 2523.34] I think it was spring. -[2523.82 --> 2524.30] Spring. -[2524.42 --> 2525.64] Who likes spring here? -[2526.18 --> 2527.28] Oh, more hands. -[2527.36 --> 2528.52] There's more spring likers. -[2529.64 --> 2532.90] What do you like? -[2534.52 --> 2535.00] Yeah. -[2540.28 --> 2541.20] You're going to be fall. -[2542.76 --> 2543.34] Here's fall. -[2543.40 --> 2543.96] Who likes fall? -[2544.08 --> 2544.34] Oh, no. -[2544.38 --> 2545.34] We just did fall, didn't we? -[2545.74 --> 2546.80] Or this one's fall. -[2547.04 --> 2547.32] Okay. -[2547.40 --> 2548.60] I'm getting all confused now. -[2548.64 --> 2549.86] You guys all messed me up. -[2550.02 --> 2551.96] You guys screen your fall. -[2552.02 --> 2552.70] We need a summer. -[2552.80 --> 2553.10] Who likes? -[2553.14 --> 2554.02] Who's my summer person? -[2554.10 --> 2554.56] You were summer. -[2554.64 --> 2555.68] Who likes summer here? -[2555.80 --> 2557.60] Oh, we got lots of summers. -[2558.32 --> 2560.66] And I think the last one is fall, right? -[2561.40 --> 2562.52] Who likes fall here? -[2563.30 --> 2563.84] All right. -[2563.96 --> 2564.72] Oh, fall's good. -[2565.20 --> 2565.52] Okay. -[2565.66 --> 2566.74] Can you guys come on down? -[2567.42 --> 2568.90] We're going to do the blessing now. -[2568.98 --> 2569.92] Can you guys stand up? -[2569.92 --> 2571.82] And we're going to do the blessing. -[2574.86 --> 2577.14] You guys don't know how to do this nice and loud for me. -[2577.88 --> 2578.24] Ready? -[2578.98 --> 2579.26] The. -[2579.62 --> 2581.96] The Lord be with you. -[2582.20 --> 2583.90] And also be with you. -[2599.92 --> 2609.72] Hi. -[2610.52 --> 2625.60] I'm an elder here at Emmanuel. -[2625.60 --> 2632.04] My name is Clary, and I'm going to lead us in our church family prayer. -[2633.10 --> 2637.92] There are a couple of announcements first that I want to share with you. -[2639.76 --> 2646.60] Second reminder to come and join us this Wednesday night, October the 29th, -[2647.52 --> 2651.56] during Game 5 of the World Series for Kevin's ordination service. -[2653.30 --> 2654.50] We'll see you here. -[2655.60 --> 2657.92] And we'll leave our phones out there. -[2659.30 --> 2663.68] It's also budget planning season for 2026. -[2664.08 --> 2667.20] We pray for the support of our ministry and missions, -[2667.42 --> 2675.40] as well as the spirits leading for what God will do among us and with us over the next year. -[2676.40 --> 2678.50] Remember Marilyn and the church office. -[2679.40 --> 2680.80] Remember the finance committee. -[2680.80 --> 2685.02] And remember council as we discern together. -[2685.02 --> 2691.88] And just an item for you to remember in your prayers going forward. -[2692.94 --> 2695.18] The meetings of classes were held last week. -[2695.82 --> 2703.00] And our request is that you would remember to pray that God would bless the work done -[2703.00 --> 2706.72] in all the different churches which are involved. -[2706.72 --> 2713.04] Let's come to our Father in prayer. -[2717.76 --> 2724.34] Our gracious Father in Heaven, we want to give thanks to you this morning that we can be here. -[2724.34 --> 2729.52] Thank you that we may begin our week not at work, -[2730.20 --> 2734.76] not racing to put food on the table, -[2734.84 --> 2741.80] but that we may express our faith in you by putting everything aside -[2741.80 --> 2744.88] and beginning the week resting. -[2744.88 --> 2747.30] Thank you for this gift. -[2747.30 --> 2757.14] And forgive us when we don't really pay attention to this rhythm and we take it for granted. -[2757.68 --> 2761.08] May we be always grateful for this. -[2761.08 --> 2764.00] We want to thank you too, Lord. -[2765.46 --> 2768.22] When we realize that in all the universe, -[2769.74 --> 2770.96] as far as we can tell, -[2771.18 --> 2773.16] every single thing out there, -[2773.52 --> 2775.00] living and inanimate, -[2775.80 --> 2776.32] follows -[2776.32 --> 2779.60] the rules that you have put in place. -[2780.62 --> 2782.42] Raindrops are a predictable size. -[2782.42 --> 2785.18] Fog is always the same. -[2785.74 --> 2786.14] Gravity, -[2786.64 --> 2787.46] as far as we can tell, -[2787.54 --> 2788.26] doesn't change. -[2788.74 --> 2790.30] Light waves do their job. -[2790.82 --> 2794.02] The leaves on the trees outside follow a pretty predictable pattern. -[2795.24 --> 2797.56] The animals follow their instincts. -[2799.58 --> 2800.88] And then there's us. -[2801.30 --> 2801.52] We -[2801.52 --> 2804.14] have free will. -[2805.70 --> 2806.86] And this is amazing. -[2809.08 --> 2810.02] So thank you -[2810.02 --> 2812.64] that in your wisdom -[2812.64 --> 2814.72] and in your desire to -[2814.72 --> 2816.18] love us -[2816.18 --> 2817.98] and be loved by us, -[2818.58 --> 2819.40] you have -[2819.40 --> 2821.80] placed an awful lot -[2821.80 --> 2823.08] of responsibility -[2823.08 --> 2825.64] into our hands. -[2826.76 --> 2827.24] And -[2827.24 --> 2830.22] we can choose -[2830.22 --> 2831.00] to be here. -[2831.12 --> 2831.64] We can choose -[2831.64 --> 2832.42] to not be here. -[2832.94 --> 2834.86] All of life is full of choices. -[2835.98 --> 2836.36] And -[2836.36 --> 2838.60] we thank you for this -[2838.60 --> 2839.48] and we ask -[2839.48 --> 2840.72] that we may -[2840.72 --> 2842.88] as we -[2842.88 --> 2844.12] are faced -[2844.12 --> 2844.82] every day -[2844.82 --> 2845.82] with decision making -[2845.82 --> 2847.34] that we may -[2847.34 --> 2848.26] humbly -[2848.26 --> 2850.74] offer our lives -[2850.74 --> 2851.40] up to you -[2851.40 --> 2853.88] and -[2853.88 --> 2854.72] allow you -[2854.72 --> 2855.80] and your spirit -[2855.80 --> 2856.30] to be -[2856.30 --> 2856.76] working -[2856.76 --> 2857.60] in us. -[2861.82 --> 2862.76] This week -[2862.76 --> 2864.10] there are -[2864.10 --> 2865.52] a handful of items -[2865.52 --> 2865.80] that -[2865.80 --> 2867.54] we would -[2867.54 --> 2868.08] like to -[2868.08 --> 2869.06] specifically -[2869.06 --> 2870.76] raise up -[2870.76 --> 2871.40] to you. -[2872.36 --> 2873.16] First of all, -[2873.92 --> 2874.70] we want to give you -[2874.70 --> 2875.80] thanks that -[2875.80 --> 2877.24] Nate and Haley Dickoff -[2877.24 --> 2879.12] had a baby girl. -[2879.54 --> 2880.42] Her name is Ruth -[2880.42 --> 2881.10] and -[2881.10 --> 2882.70] all is well. -[2884.58 --> 2884.98] And of course, -[2885.06 --> 2885.64] Stacy and I -[2885.64 --> 2886.56] and Nate's parents -[2886.56 --> 2887.22] are quite excited -[2887.22 --> 2888.18] because this is -[2888.18 --> 2889.34] a first grandbaby -[2889.34 --> 2890.32] for both families. -[2890.32 --> 2892.46] bless them -[2892.46 --> 2892.92] in this -[2892.92 --> 2894.58] couple weeks -[2894.58 --> 2895.32] of transition -[2895.32 --> 2896.50] and -[2896.50 --> 2898.04] continue to -[2898.04 --> 2898.74] give health. -[2899.76 --> 2900.50] We want to give you -[2900.50 --> 2900.92] thanks -[2900.92 --> 2901.92] that -[2901.92 --> 2904.50] Kevin's exam -[2904.50 --> 2905.18] at classes -[2905.18 --> 2906.40] went well -[2906.40 --> 2907.24] this past week -[2907.24 --> 2908.10] and that he can -[2908.10 --> 2909.06] now be ordained. -[2910.06 --> 2911.34] We want to -[2911.34 --> 2912.22] ask that you -[2912.22 --> 2913.18] please -[2913.18 --> 2913.96] continue to -[2913.96 --> 2914.88] provide healing -[2914.88 --> 2916.24] and patience -[2916.24 --> 2917.26] for my sister -[2917.26 --> 2917.88] Carolyn. -[2919.90 --> 2920.94] She has a long -[2920.94 --> 2921.92] road of recovery -[2921.92 --> 2923.44] but she is -[2923.44 --> 2923.98] recovering -[2923.98 --> 2925.28] but it's going -[2925.28 --> 2925.70] to be -[2925.70 --> 2926.78] probably -[2926.78 --> 2927.92] the new year -[2927.92 --> 2928.58] before she can -[2928.58 --> 2929.14] put weight -[2929.14 --> 2929.78] on her foot. -[2930.60 --> 2930.72] So -[2930.72 --> 2932.48] mend her -[2932.48 --> 2933.26] broken foot -[2933.26 --> 2933.98] mend her -[2933.98 --> 2935.48] broken back -[2935.48 --> 2936.26] and ribs -[2936.26 --> 2937.00] and -[2937.00 --> 2938.18] especially -[2938.18 --> 2940.98] give her -[2940.98 --> 2941.56] good cheer. -[2942.62 --> 2943.30] We also -[2943.30 --> 2943.66] want to say -[2943.66 --> 2944.08] thank you -[2944.08 --> 2945.02] that Tessa's -[2945.02 --> 2945.72] lungs -[2945.72 --> 2946.82] have improved -[2946.82 --> 2948.54] quite a bit -[2948.54 --> 2949.32] and that she is -[2949.32 --> 2949.68] doing -[2949.68 --> 2950.66] very well. -[2952.38 --> 2953.38] We want to -[2953.38 --> 2953.92] ask that you -[2953.92 --> 2954.66] continue to -[2954.66 --> 2955.06] strengthen -[2955.06 --> 2956.48] expecting mothers -[2956.48 --> 2958.16] and -[2958.16 --> 2959.30] for all of those -[2959.30 --> 2960.28] in our midst -[2960.28 --> 2960.74] who are -[2960.74 --> 2961.92] foster parents -[2961.92 --> 2963.14] please -[2963.14 --> 2963.86] bless their -[2963.86 --> 2964.36] families -[2964.36 --> 2966.08] and give them -[2966.08 --> 2967.78] a full measure -[2967.78 --> 2968.30] of grace -[2968.30 --> 2969.08] and joy -[2969.08 --> 2970.52] in the work -[2970.52 --> 2971.24] that they do -[2971.24 --> 2973.04] whether it is -[2973.04 --> 2973.90] for a short term -[2973.90 --> 2975.18] or long term. -[2978.46 --> 2979.26] We also -[2979.26 --> 2980.62] realize -[2980.62 --> 2981.78] that in many -[2981.78 --> 2982.50] of our families -[2982.50 --> 2982.86] there are -[2982.86 --> 2983.44] strained -[2983.44 --> 2983.80] and maybe -[2983.80 --> 2984.20] even -[2984.20 --> 2984.74] broken -[2984.74 --> 2985.84] relationships. -[2986.84 --> 2987.44] There's a lot -[2987.44 --> 2987.78] of blame -[2987.78 --> 2988.54] to go around -[2988.54 --> 2989.72] to be sure -[2989.72 --> 2991.86] but we ask -[2991.86 --> 2992.26] that you help -[2992.26 --> 2992.98] us to remember -[2992.98 --> 2994.02] that love -[2994.02 --> 2995.24] can be a lot -[2995.24 --> 2995.62] of work -[2995.62 --> 2997.18] and that time -[2997.18 --> 2997.68] is precious -[2997.68 --> 2998.60] and that we are -[2998.60 --> 2999.50] not promised -[2999.50 --> 3000.32] a tomorrow -[3000.32 --> 3001.80] and that maybe -[3001.80 --> 3002.24] it's time -[3002.24 --> 3002.70] to make that -[3002.70 --> 3003.52] awkward call -[3003.52 --> 3004.24] or have that -[3004.24 --> 3004.84] conversation -[3004.84 --> 3005.38] that we've -[3005.38 --> 3005.86] been avoiding. -[3006.86 --> 3007.98] In all cases -[3007.98 --> 3008.32] Lord, -[3008.58 --> 3009.36] grant courage -[3009.36 --> 3010.98] and grace -[3010.98 --> 3014.54] and in those -[3014.54 --> 3015.64] circumstances -[3015.64 --> 3016.44] will you bring -[3016.44 --> 3017.92] reconciliation? -[3017.92 --> 3020.74] and finally -[3020.74 --> 3022.16] and this is a big -[3022.16 --> 3022.58] ask -[3022.58 --> 3023.64] but we ask -[3023.64 --> 3025.02] for more -[3025.02 --> 3026.26] peace in the world. -[3028.20 --> 3029.26] I googled this -[3029.26 --> 3029.58] morning -[3029.58 --> 3030.56] and almost every -[3030.56 --> 3031.22] letter of the -[3031.22 --> 3031.56] alphabet -[3031.56 --> 3033.42] has a country -[3033.42 --> 3034.94] that has a war -[3034.94 --> 3035.52] going on -[3035.52 --> 3035.92] in it. -[3037.20 --> 3037.88] Israel, -[3038.24 --> 3038.62] Ukraine, -[3038.78 --> 3039.22] Afghanistan, -[3039.56 --> 3039.80] Haiti, -[3040.32 --> 3041.32] the list goes on -[3041.32 --> 3044.22] and Father -[3044.22 --> 3044.80] we ask -[3044.80 --> 3046.78] that leaders -[3046.78 --> 3047.68] in these -[3047.68 --> 3048.28] conflicts -[3048.28 --> 3051.28] may be -[3051.28 --> 3052.00] greatly moved -[3052.00 --> 3053.14] by your spirit -[3053.14 --> 3053.70] through their -[3053.70 --> 3054.22] advisors -[3054.22 --> 3054.92] or through -[3054.92 --> 3055.44] dreams -[3055.44 --> 3057.22] and that they -[3057.22 --> 3057.76] may seek -[3057.76 --> 3060.96] to make -[3060.96 --> 3061.96] real peace. -[3063.32 --> 3064.18] We know -[3064.18 --> 3064.98] this is possible. -[3065.82 --> 3066.28] Honestly, -[3066.62 --> 3067.46] I think a lot -[3067.46 --> 3068.30] of us wonder -[3068.30 --> 3070.82] if it's doable -[3070.82 --> 3072.80] so we ask -[3072.80 --> 3073.18] that you -[3073.18 --> 3074.04] and your Holy Spirit -[3074.04 --> 3074.64] may work -[3074.64 --> 3075.52] mightily -[3075.52 --> 3075.98] through your -[3075.98 --> 3076.40] church -[3076.40 --> 3079.32] to bring -[3079.32 --> 3079.84] restoration -[3079.84 --> 3080.54] and justice. -[3081.74 --> 3082.34] Amen. -[3100.82 --> 3112.14] Let me try -[3112.14 --> 3112.40] again. -[3112.54 --> 3112.88] Thank you -[3112.88 --> 3113.52] Opa Clary -[3113.52 --> 3114.02] for that -[3114.02 --> 3114.34] prayer. -[3116.42 --> 3117.24] We are -[3117.24 --> 3118.10] going to -[3118.10 --> 3119.26] at this time -[3119.26 --> 3120.34] open God's -[3120.34 --> 3120.96] word together -[3120.96 --> 3122.76] and spend -[3122.76 --> 3123.46] some time -[3123.46 --> 3124.10] reflecting -[3124.10 --> 3124.82] on -[3124.82 --> 3126.50] Ecclesiastes -[3126.50 --> 3127.10] 3. -[3128.14 --> 3128.60] I'm going to -[3128.60 --> 3129.12] read the -[3129.12 --> 3130.60] first 15 -[3130.60 --> 3131.06] verses -[3131.06 --> 3132.72] in our -[3132.72 --> 3133.20] time -[3133.20 --> 3134.28] together -[3134.28 --> 3134.60] at the -[3134.60 --> 3134.88] beginning. -[3135.68 --> 3136.24] I invite -[3136.24 --> 3136.74] you to -[3136.74 --> 3137.34] have that -[3137.34 --> 3137.98] open in -[3137.98 --> 3138.28] front of -[3138.28 --> 3138.60] you or -[3138.60 --> 3138.84] on a -[3138.84 --> 3139.24] device -[3139.24 --> 3140.28] with you -[3140.28 --> 3141.36] as we -[3141.36 --> 3142.30] read together -[3142.30 --> 3142.66] and then -[3142.66 --> 3142.98] to keep -[3142.98 --> 3143.44] that there -[3143.44 --> 3144.08] as we -[3144.08 --> 3144.46] reflect -[3144.46 --> 3144.86] back -[3144.86 --> 3145.72] throughout. -[3147.10 --> 3147.70] Let's -[3147.70 --> 3148.34] read from -[3148.34 --> 3149.12] Ecclesiastes -[3149.12 --> 3149.50] 3. -[3151.72 --> 3152.48] There is -[3152.48 --> 3153.06] a time -[3153.06 --> 3153.64] for -[3153.64 --> 3154.34] everything -[3154.34 --> 3155.42] and a -[3155.42 --> 3155.74] season -[3155.74 --> 3156.60] for every -[3156.60 --> 3157.16] activity -[3157.16 --> 3157.90] under -[3157.90 --> 3186.12] the -[3186.12 --> 3188.24] A time to search and a time to give up. -[3188.32 --> 3190.84] A time to keep and a time to throw away. -[3191.20 --> 3193.76] A time to tear and a time to mend. -[3194.40 --> 3197.46] A time to be silent and a time to speak. -[3198.16 --> 3201.54] A time to love and a time to hate. -[3202.14 --> 3205.24] A time for war and a time for peace. -[3206.54 --> 3210.14] What do workers gain from all their toil? -[3210.14 --> 3214.58] I have seen the burden God has laid on the human race. -[3214.58 --> 3219.06] He has made everything beautiful in its time. -[3219.90 --> 3222.96] And he has also set eternity in the heart. -[3224.18 --> 3229.14] Yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end. -[3230.56 --> 3237.20] I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. -[3237.80 --> 3243.14] That each of them may eat and drink and find satisfaction in all their toil. -[3243.14 --> 3245.48] This is the gift of God. -[3246.68 --> 3249.84] I know that everything God does will endure forever. -[3250.88 --> 3254.18] Nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. -[3254.76 --> 3258.14] God does it so that people will fear him. -[3259.70 --> 3265.26] Whatever is has been already and whatever will be has been before. -[3265.90 --> 3269.32] And God will call the past to account. -[3269.32 --> 3271.72] This is the word of the Lord. -[3278.92 --> 3285.24] We live in an age that is obsessed with time. -[3285.24 --> 3290.26] We count our steps. -[3291.38 --> 3298.44] We strap little devices to our wrists in order to track just how many steps we've taken. -[3298.62 --> 3302.96] Making sure that we hit our 12,000 step goal every single day. -[3303.12 --> 3304.78] We track our sleep. -[3304.92 --> 3311.88] We put little rings on that send a report on our sleep to us every morning after we wake up. -[3311.88 --> 3314.44] So that we can see what we already know. -[3314.44 --> 3316.80] That I didn't get enough sleep and I'm still tired. -[3317.84 --> 3320.14] We schedule every hour. -[3320.38 --> 3322.44] We color code our calendars. -[3322.58 --> 3326.22] We fill every spare moment with noise. -[3327.22 --> 3331.66] In our culture today, productivity is the new piety. -[3331.66 --> 3338.08] The modern gospel promises salvation by optimization. -[3339.16 --> 3343.38] If you can manage your time well enough, you can master your life. -[3345.38 --> 3355.54] Beneath it all lies a truth, a longing, and honestly, a heartbreak. -[3355.54 --> 3365.04] That no matter how carefully we plan, time keeps slipping through our fingers. -[3366.30 --> 3367.70] The calendar fills. -[3368.00 --> 3368.94] The children grow. -[3369.54 --> 3370.90] The mirror changes. -[3371.52 --> 3372.62] And we feel it. -[3373.82 --> 3375.60] You are not in control. -[3377.80 --> 3379.42] And so the search continues. -[3379.42 --> 3385.82] If we can't master time through productivity, perhaps we can escape it through progress. -[3386.22 --> 3391.78] And so we look to science or technology, to human innovation, hoping that that will somehow -[3391.78 --> 3395.36] free us from the limits that bind us. -[3396.10 --> 3402.50] We long to be timeless, free from decay, free from aging, from the brevity that defines every -[3402.50 --> 3403.78] human moment. -[3403.78 --> 3413.96] And we do this at a point in time in history when the banner that Friedrich Nietzsche once -[3413.96 --> 3421.76] said, God is dead, is proclaimed not merely as a declaration of unbelief in the world, but -[3421.76 --> 3424.80] an attempt to break free from divine limits. -[3425.90 --> 3426.02] Right? -[3426.08 --> 3431.94] If God is dead, then the human spirit can finally be sovereign over its own destiny. -[3431.94 --> 3442.98] And yet, as the teacher in Ecclesiastes discovered long before Nietzsche, a world without God quickly -[3442.98 --> 3445.10] becomes a world without meaning. -[3446.90 --> 3454.72] Now down the line, from the philosophical work of the Enlightenment and thinkers like Immanuel Kant, -[3454.72 --> 3463.32] emerges this distinction in the world between belief on one hand and knowledge on the other. -[3464.48 --> 3466.96] Knowledge is empirical. -[3467.38 --> 3468.46] It is verifiable. -[3468.78 --> 3470.04] It is falsifiable. -[3470.62 --> 3472.80] And belief is faith. -[3473.72 --> 3474.58] It is assumption. -[3475.04 --> 3476.88] It's ultimately unprovable. -[3476.88 --> 3481.80] And therefore, they belong to different categories of thought. -[3482.76 --> 3485.10] And they're weighted differently. -[3485.34 --> 3493.66] And over time, this distinction has become a dichotomy that has hijacked religious language -[3493.66 --> 3497.52] and thought and ideas to a lesser category. -[3499.20 --> 3504.62] And sometimes even characterized as simple-minded or childish. -[3504.62 --> 3514.86] And over here, modern science and post-Christian thought has trained us to see the world as if -[3514.86 --> 3517.82] God were absent in it. -[3518.26 --> 3525.70] To observe and to measure and to analyze without reference or account for his hand at work. -[3526.38 --> 3531.22] And actually, even in the rise that we're seeing in the world today in a sort of contemporary -[3531.22 --> 3541.60] spiritualism, the idea of God that people are returning to is a God who is part of the frame. -[3542.10 --> 3545.14] A God who can be explained by those categories. -[3545.76 --> 3550.50] And who therefore can be manipulated and adjusted and directed. -[3551.64 --> 3554.24] But that's just not the God we see in the Bible. -[3554.24 --> 3564.18] And this contrast and this way of this lens of seeing the world actually isn't new. -[3565.72 --> 3572.96] In our text from Ecclesiastes 3 and in the whole of Ecclesiastes, this has been the method of the teacher. -[3573.14 --> 3576.04] This has been his experiment throughout. -[3576.04 --> 3585.38] He looks at the world under the sun, stripping away revelation to see what can be known by observation alone. -[3585.50 --> 3590.42] And he studies life through what we might call that empirical lens. -[3590.64 --> 3598.98] Measuring what he can see, testing what he can experience, and searching for meaning before his eyes or under the sun. -[3598.98 --> 3606.92] And what we are seeing over and over and over again, and what we need to see in this present moment, -[3607.32 --> 3612.60] is that God's providence rules all of time. -[3613.32 --> 3621.02] And so our task is not to master it, but to receive time with reverent joy. -[3621.10 --> 3626.74] That's the banner for us this morning, that God's providence rules all of time. -[3626.74 --> 3632.52] And our task then is not to master it, but to receive it with reverent joy. -[3634.18 --> 3643.86] So as the teacher surveys life under the sun, he discovers, really, what every age must discover. -[3645.08 --> 3652.16] That there is a time for everything, but the times themselves are not ours to command. -[3652.16 --> 3660.54] As the teacher surveys life under the sun, he sees that there is a time for everything and a season forever, -[3661.02 --> 3663.28] every activity under heaven. -[3663.40 --> 3668.36] And he observes life as it unfolds, birth and death, planting and uprooting, -[3668.58 --> 3670.76] weeping and laughter, mourning and dancing. -[3671.68 --> 3675.58] And everything seems to arrive on schedule. -[3675.58 --> 3681.18] And yet, it's no schedule that we control. -[3682.96 --> 3691.94] The lessons of human experience come and go, not by our willing, but by someone beyond us. -[3693.70 --> 3697.50] But notice how he frames it. -[3697.50 --> 3714.84] Do you see? -[3714.84 --> 3719.88] This is a zero-sum enterprise here. -[3719.88 --> 3724.96] If on the one there's a good thing, the next undoes it. -[3726.94 --> 3730.52] The teacher is not romantic about this. -[3730.66 --> 3732.02] This is the reality. -[3732.12 --> 3736.10] He doesn't say, isn't it wonderful that everything has its time? -[3736.22 --> 3740.76] He says, look, it happens, and I can't change it. -[3741.50 --> 3744.96] And in the end, what difference does it make? -[3744.96 --> 3750.22] Can a person alter the day that they were born or the hour that they die? -[3751.22 --> 3758.20] Can anyone force spring to come earlier or delay winter's rain and cold? -[3759.72 --> 3763.28] Try as we might, these times are set. -[3764.18 --> 3768.64] And we live in them, but we don't determine them. -[3768.64 --> 3773.08] And so, again, the teacher asks the question. -[3773.22 --> 3777.40] That has been a frame and a return and a reframe through the whole book. -[3777.84 --> 3781.08] What does the worker gain from his toil? -[3782.26 --> 3788.32] If life runs on a schedule that we don't write, what's the point of all our effort, all our striving, all our planning? -[3789.94 --> 3797.22] And he looks out, and again, he realizes that in every pair in the poem, that it cancels the next out. -[3797.22 --> 3800.20] For every action, there is its opposite. -[3800.44 --> 3802.34] For every gain, it is undone. -[3802.48 --> 3805.48] The ledger balances to nil. -[3806.68 --> 3809.12] And this is what he sees under the sun. -[3809.84 --> 3814.80] A world moving in circles, accomplishing nothing that lasts. -[3815.20 --> 3820.08] As he said earlier, and we looked at this, a generation goes and a generation comes. -[3820.56 --> 3822.46] The sun rises and the sun sets. -[3822.58 --> 3824.98] The wind blows to the south and then turns to the north. -[3825.10 --> 3826.74] Round and round it goes. -[3826.74 --> 3827.92] There is no gain. -[3828.06 --> 3829.42] There is no surplus. -[3829.74 --> 3834.26] Time marches on indifferent to our labors. -[3836.76 --> 3838.26] And I think we feel this. -[3840.26 --> 3844.52] We want to stand outside of time and to master it. -[3845.06 --> 3846.72] To make it serve our purposes. -[3846.72 --> 3856.06] On Friday, at 4.30, I was sitting in my study, and I said, I need eight more hours. -[3856.06 --> 3861.68] And I wanted to get home and watch the baseball game. -[3863.68 --> 3864.92] But I didn't have it. -[3864.92 --> 3865.92] We can't control it. -[3865.92 --> 3867.08] Right? -[3867.08 --> 3869.06] We can't control it. -[3869.86 --> 3872.00] The seasons will not obey us. -[3872.44 --> 3876.76] Our lives, for all of their activity, remain bounded to the same rhythm. -[3876.94 --> 3878.08] Beginnings and endings. -[3878.08 --> 3879.20] Joys and sorrows. -[3879.20 --> 3880.56] Gain and loss. -[3880.56 --> 3890.82] And when the teacher looks at the world through what can be known, through sight and through experience, through what can be measured, -[3890.82 --> 3896.14] he finds no meaning there. -[3896.14 --> 3903.08] And the more he looks, the more he observes, the more he discovers his own limits. -[3904.52 --> 3906.12] He cannot master time. -[3907.06 --> 3908.74] He can't even understand it. -[3908.74 --> 3914.06] And in the end, we simply cannot fathom. -[3915.02 --> 3916.42] We can't understand. -[3916.42 --> 3928.14] And when we look at the world based purely on what we are able to know in that sort of empirical, scientific frame, we still don't understand. -[3929.90 --> 3938.50] And yet, even in his unknowing, the teacher is not blind to beauty. -[3939.54 --> 3939.66] Right? -[3939.70 --> 3940.68] Did you catch that? -[3942.24 --> 3943.20] Verse 11. -[3943.20 --> 3948.68] He has made everything beautiful in its time. -[3950.32 --> 3954.58] And though he cannot trace the pattern, he can see it shimmer. -[3955.58 --> 3955.80] Right? -[3955.84 --> 3961.54] There's a kind of order and a fittingness that breaks through the fog of human limitation. -[3961.54 --> 3975.38] The seasons of joy and sorrow, birth and death, gain and loss, all have their place within a design that is too vast to comprehend, but too consistent to ignore. -[3975.38 --> 3983.52] And again, as we're looking at Ecclesiastes, this is precisely where we introduce nuance. -[3984.72 --> 3985.22] Right? -[3985.30 --> 3988.94] The teacher here doesn't deny that beauty can be seen. -[3988.94 --> 3993.12] He denies that the beauty can be explained. -[3994.12 --> 3994.68] Right? -[3994.72 --> 4000.82] The teacher cannot fathom the totality of God's work, and yet he perceives its beauty. -[4000.82 --> 4008.12] In theological terms, this is the difference between comprehension and apprehension. -[4009.04 --> 4009.18] Right? -[4009.22 --> 4013.24] We cannot grasp the mystery, but we can glimpse the goodness. -[4014.36 --> 4015.08] Right? -[4015.12 --> 4020.26] We can perceive the artistry of God's providence without being able to diagram it. -[4020.26 --> 4037.24] We can stand before time as we would a giant tapestry, catching only the underside of the threads, and yet, even from below, those glimpses of color and form and pattern move us to wonder. -[4038.24 --> 4043.66] To wonder, both in the sense of awe, but also in the sense of curiosity. -[4044.48 --> 4046.14] What is going on here? -[4046.14 --> 4052.88] And so already, right, within the futility, there is grace. -[4054.56 --> 4066.48] Even as we cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end, we sense that there is a purpose that makes life not meaningless, but mysteriously ordered. -[4067.86 --> 4075.98] We see enough to trust, though we see enough also to know that we are not in control. -[4076.14 --> 4083.18] And this distinction now, returning to that beginning one, of knowledge and belief isn't new. -[4083.60 --> 4089.78] Long before modern philosophy named it, the teacher of Ecclesiastes is wrestling with it. -[4089.82 --> 4096.48] And having looked at the world with his eyes alone, having found that knowledge by itself could not bear the weight of meaning, -[4096.48 --> 4105.08] the more he measured, the less he understood, and yet even amidst the mystery, he saw the beauty. -[4106.62 --> 4107.36] And so he turns. -[4108.64 --> 4115.16] The teacher moves from describing what he sees to confessing what he knows. -[4115.16 --> 4119.74] And the difference between the two is faith. -[4121.24 --> 4122.40] In verse 12, he says, -[4122.80 --> 4128.12] I know that there is nothing better than for people to be happy and to do good while they live. -[4128.68 --> 4129.84] In verse 14, he says, -[4130.14 --> 4133.68] I know that everything God does will endure forever. -[4135.38 --> 4137.02] He can't prove any of those claims. -[4137.96 --> 4140.12] They're not empirical conclusions. -[4140.12 --> 4144.10] They are what we will call creedal affirmations. -[4145.20 --> 4146.80] They're statements of belief. -[4147.62 --> 4148.42] I believe. -[4148.80 --> 4148.92] Right? -[4148.96 --> 4153.10] So I know that there's nothing better than for people to be happy and do good while they live. -[4153.32 --> 4153.68] Prove it. -[4154.96 --> 4157.84] I know that everything God does will endure forever. -[4158.20 --> 4158.60] Prove it. -[4159.72 --> 4160.68] He can't do it. -[4160.68 --> 4169.10] But he must believe them if life is going to have any coherence at all. -[4170.18 --> 4170.28] Right? -[4170.36 --> 4177.42] Without belief in God's enduring work, time collapses into endless cycles of gain and loss. -[4177.42 --> 4187.76] But with belief in God's enduring work, with a recognition of God's providential hand over all of creation, over all of time, -[4188.06 --> 4192.06] time itself becomes the theater of God's providence. -[4193.76 --> 4199.00] The teacher's confession anticipates our modern crisis. -[4200.30 --> 4200.40] Right? -[4200.44 --> 4205.30] We, too, live in an age and a time that prizes what can be measured and what can be verified. -[4205.30 --> 4209.26] And we are trained to trust only what can be demonstrated. -[4209.52 --> 4214.82] But meaning and goodness and beauty do not submit to laboratory instruments. -[4215.82 --> 4223.22] The joy that the teacher describes cannot be observed so much as it can be only received. -[4224.76 --> 4231.46] Faith, then, it turns out, doesn't replace knowledge, but rather completes it. -[4232.46 --> 4233.16] Right? -[4233.16 --> 4237.78] It allows what we see to become more than what we can explain. -[4238.80 --> 4243.10] Belief opens our eyes to what reason alone cannot hold. -[4243.90 --> 4250.72] And in the light of faith, that beauty glimpsed in time becomes a sign of the God who governs it. -[4250.72 --> 4259.58] And then the reason we can find satisfaction in our toil, in our work, in our relationships, in the ordinary rhythms of life, -[4259.62 --> 4266.32] is not because we have mastered time, but because we trust the one who holds time. -[4268.46 --> 4268.64] Right? -[4269.04 --> 4274.42] What we experience as fleeting, God holds forever. -[4274.42 --> 4274.50] Whatever. -[4275.38 --> 4284.64] What we feel as transient to us is purposeful to Him. -[4285.84 --> 4291.14] He has made everything beautiful in its time. -[4291.28 --> 4296.64] And He has made us to live in that beauty. -[4296.64 --> 4299.86] To live with that joy. -[4299.86 --> 4308.40] And the teacher's confession, as he builds, reaches the height of his argument in verse 14. -[4309.32 --> 4309.68] He says, -[4309.68 --> 4330.32] This is the turning point of our text, right? -[4330.32 --> 4332.00] Human work is fleeting. -[4332.24 --> 4334.10] God's work endures forever. -[4334.46 --> 4336.52] Human striving cannot secure meaning. -[4336.94 --> 4339.38] God's action provides meaning to all things. -[4339.68 --> 4343.22] And the fear that the teacher names here is not terror. -[4343.78 --> 4345.06] It is reverence. -[4345.64 --> 4354.38] It is the stillness that comes when one realizes that the world is held by hands far stronger and wiser than our own. -[4354.38 --> 4361.80] And so the proper posture in this recognition is not control, but worship. -[4363.08 --> 4370.04] To live wisely is to learn how to rest in the limits of time and to rejoice in what God has given. -[4370.96 --> 4377.04] There's nothing better, the teacher says, than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in all their toil. -[4377.54 --> 4379.86] This is the gift of God. -[4379.86 --> 4388.58] Joy in Ecclesiastes into the Christian is not a denial of reality. -[4388.76 --> 4392.84] Joy is not the shallow optimism that pretends that everything is fine. -[4393.28 --> 4399.86] Joy is a confession that even in our transience, God's providence is real. -[4400.70 --> 4404.92] Even in our brokenness, God's power is true. -[4404.92 --> 4412.08] Even in our incompleteness, God is whole and holy. -[4413.12 --> 4421.46] And to rejoice is to trust that the beauty that we glimpse in our days and moments is not accidental, but full of purpose. -[4421.84 --> 4429.96] And that behind the passing moments, there stands an eternal God who makes them beautiful in his time. -[4429.96 --> 4439.64] And this kind of joy is deeply countercultural in the world today. -[4440.44 --> 4447.22] We live in a world that is obsessed with control and optimization and with making the most of every moment. -[4447.42 --> 4450.80] But the teacher's wisdom cuts through all of that. -[4450.80 --> 4455.94] And he tells us that freedom is not found in mastering time, but in receiving it. -[4456.86 --> 4459.18] The joy is not a reward for efficiency. -[4459.68 --> 4462.66] It is the fruit of surrender. -[4464.02 --> 4469.26] When we believe that God and everything God does endures forever, -[4469.46 --> 4473.40] the pressure to secure our own permanence is released. -[4473.40 --> 4480.68] We can live joyfully, freely, we can do generously and rest peacefully, -[4480.68 --> 4486.12] because the end of all things does not depend on your work to secure it, -[4486.62 --> 4493.40] but the eternal God who holds it and who holds us in his care. -[4494.54 --> 4498.04] That is why the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, -[4498.40 --> 4501.06] a refrain repeated throughout the book of Proverbs. -[4501.06 --> 4503.96] Reverence anchors joy. -[4505.48 --> 4510.98] Reverence anchors joy, and it keeps our gladness from becoming self-indulgence -[4510.98 --> 4513.04] and turns it instead to gratitude. -[4514.02 --> 4517.76] Every moment of joy then becomes a moment of worship. -[4518.82 --> 4523.08] A quiet amen to the God whose work endures forever, -[4523.26 --> 4528.08] whose timing is perfect, and whose beauty fills all things. -[4531.06 --> 4542.06] Now the teacher, right, the teacher could only see the beauty of God and of time and of his plan in part. -[4543.16 --> 4547.00] He knew that God makes all things beautiful in their time, -[4547.14 --> 4550.06] but he couldn't yet see how. -[4550.06 --> 4560.30] And it's ultimately the gospel that reveals the beauty of God fully in the person of Jesus Christ. -[4561.58 --> 4565.04] David once prayed in Psalm 31 15, -[4565.48 --> 4568.52] My times are in your hands. -[4570.00 --> 4573.78] And in Christ, that prayer becomes flesh. -[4573.78 --> 4577.78] Jesus entered time, entered our time, -[4577.78 --> 4580.52] with all of its futility and frustration. -[4580.70 --> 4582.68] And he lived the life that we should have lived. -[4583.32 --> 4583.54] Right? -[4583.58 --> 4586.56] One of perfect trust in the Father's timing. -[4588.24 --> 4590.90] He never hurried God's purposes, -[4591.28 --> 4595.38] never tried to seize control of what only the Father could give. -[4595.38 --> 4600.10] And he died the death that we deserve. -[4601.14 --> 4601.28] Right? -[4601.30 --> 4606.52] The ultimate consequence of our striving to be our own masters of time. -[4607.48 --> 4613.76] And at the cross, God's providence reaches its most paradoxical beauty. -[4614.44 --> 4614.56] Right? -[4614.60 --> 4620.80] What looked like the worst possible moment in time was, in fact, the best. -[4620.80 --> 4620.92] Christ. -[4621.82 --> 4624.16] As Paul writes in Romans 5, he says, -[4624.44 --> 4629.36] You see, at just the right time, while we were still powerless, -[4629.90 --> 4632.62] Christ died for the ungodly. -[4634.00 --> 4639.62] The eternal plan of God met human history in one decisive act of love. -[4639.70 --> 4642.16] And the one who holds all time in his hands -[4642.16 --> 4647.28] entered time in order to redeem it and to secure you. -[4647.28 --> 4653.46] The cross, then, is the ultimate answer to the teacher's struggle, -[4653.86 --> 4654.90] to our struggle. -[4655.32 --> 4660.52] Even when everything seems impossible, -[4660.78 --> 4667.32] even when we cannot begin to grasp the meaning of anything that's going on, -[4667.60 --> 4669.50] God is working. -[4670.44 --> 4672.94] Even when everything looks senseless, -[4673.38 --> 4675.28] God is weaving beauty. -[4675.28 --> 4679.00] And the resurrection, in fact, confirms it. -[4679.74 --> 4680.10] Right? -[4680.20 --> 4681.72] There is a time to die, -[4682.34 --> 4685.38] and there's a time to live again. -[4686.54 --> 4689.66] Because of Jesus, we can now say with confidence -[4689.66 --> 4691.32] what David only hoped. -[4691.74 --> 4693.40] My times are in your hands. -[4694.28 --> 4697.78] Every moment, every joy, every sorrow, every season -[4697.78 --> 4701.68] is gathered up into Christ's redemptive story, -[4701.68 --> 4704.72] and his timing is not always our timing, -[4704.94 --> 4707.58] but his timing is always good. -[4709.82 --> 4713.00] And when the gospel grips our hearts, -[4713.56 --> 4715.78] it changes how we see time. -[4716.52 --> 4719.86] We no longer live as though the weight of the world depends on us. -[4720.66 --> 4723.48] We confess that our time is God's time, -[4723.58 --> 4725.44] that our money is God's money, -[4725.54 --> 4727.32] that our church is his church, -[4727.32 --> 4730.30] that our story is his story. -[4731.20 --> 4735.08] To live in the fear of the Lord is to live with open hands, -[4735.38 --> 4738.12] to receive each day as a gift, -[4738.26 --> 4740.48] rather than grasping to control it. -[4741.12 --> 4743.68] And this frees us to work diligently, -[4743.98 --> 4746.18] to rest peacefully, -[4746.18 --> 4748.52] and to rejoice sincerely. -[4748.52 --> 4752.24] It teaches us to hold our achievements -[4752.24 --> 4755.20] and our anxieties loosely. -[4756.44 --> 4758.12] Because they belong to God, -[4758.82 --> 4761.08] whose work endures forever. -[4762.12 --> 4765.82] And this confession shapes every part of our life. -[4767.04 --> 4768.54] When we plan our days, -[4768.68 --> 4770.46] we do so humbly, saying, -[4770.84 --> 4772.24] if the Lord wills. -[4772.26 --> 4773.70] When we spend our time, -[4773.80 --> 4775.32] we do so gratefully, -[4775.48 --> 4777.80] knowing that every moment is borrowed grace. -[4777.80 --> 4778.86] When we suffer, -[4779.02 --> 4780.22] we do so hopefully, -[4780.44 --> 4781.80] trusting that every season, -[4782.62 --> 4784.32] even the hardest of seasons, -[4784.48 --> 4785.90] are not wasted. -[4786.90 --> 4788.02] And when we celebrate, -[4788.92 --> 4790.78] we do so joyfully, -[4791.42 --> 4794.06] knowing that every beautiful moment -[4794.06 --> 4795.88] is a glimpse of eternity -[4795.88 --> 4798.24] breaking through to your heart. -[4801.24 --> 4803.42] I'm going to end this morning -[4803.42 --> 4805.64] by asking you to stand. -[4805.64 --> 4808.36] In just a moment, -[4808.36 --> 4812.22] we are going to make a profession of faith together. -[4813.02 --> 4815.92] And I want you to speak the portion that is for you. -[4816.00 --> 4817.46] It will be on the screen indicated. -[4817.92 --> 4820.82] And it will be a repetition of the refrain, -[4821.16 --> 4823.98] our times are in his hands. -[4825.62 --> 4827.20] Because this is what we have seen. -[4827.20 --> 4830.70] God rules over time. -[4831.74 --> 4833.78] And our task is not to master it, -[4833.86 --> 4836.28] but to receive it with reverent joy. -[4837.78 --> 4838.48] And in the end, -[4838.62 --> 4842.06] Ecclesiastes brings this same confession -[4842.06 --> 4844.76] and brings us to this same confession -[4844.76 --> 4848.50] that faith alone in Christ makes possible. -[4848.50 --> 4850.46] And so together, -[4851.18 --> 4853.76] our times are in his hands. -[4854.42 --> 4856.00] There is no greater comfort -[4856.00 --> 4858.38] when everything seems out of control. -[4859.10 --> 4861.30] Our times are in his hands. -[4861.80 --> 4863.18] There is no greater refuge -[4863.18 --> 4865.68] when the world is falling down around us. -[4866.44 --> 4868.40] Our times are in his hands. -[4868.78 --> 4870.16] There is no greater strength -[4870.16 --> 4872.14] when all our strength has failed. -[4872.84 --> 4875.02] Our times are in his hands. -[4875.02 --> 4877.24] And there is no greater joy -[4877.24 --> 4879.48] when we contemplate eternity -[4879.48 --> 4881.38] set on our hearts. -[4882.14 --> 4884.20] Our times are in his hands. -[4885.38 --> 4887.12] And so, brothers and sisters, -[4887.38 --> 4888.52] we rest. -[4889.28 --> 4891.26] Not because we understand everything, -[4891.98 --> 4894.24] but because we are known by the one who does. -[4895.32 --> 4897.70] We rejoice not because life is easy, -[4898.18 --> 4900.66] but because Christ has made it beautiful -[4900.66 --> 4902.76] in his time. -[4903.36 --> 4904.46] And we trust. -[4905.02 --> 4907.68] Because the hands that hold our times -[4907.68 --> 4911.00] are the hands that were once pierced -[4911.00 --> 4913.48] for you and for me. -[4914.26 --> 4916.90] Our times are in his hands. -[4917.70 --> 4917.92] Amen. -[4918.68 --> 4919.70] Let's pray together. -[4923.08 --> 4926.02] God of all time. -[4926.72 --> 4928.34] God beyond time. -[4928.50 --> 4930.30] God before time. -[4930.30 --> 4931.30] God beyond time. -[4931.30 --> 4935.24] We behold you in this moment. -[4937.36 --> 4939.56] We glimpse your majesty. -[4940.30 --> 4942.32] We glimpse your beauty. -[4943.46 --> 4945.06] And with reverence, -[4945.28 --> 4947.76] may we respond with joy. -[4948.82 --> 4951.08] Hear the worship of our hearts now -[4951.08 --> 4953.34] that having seen your glory -[4953.34 --> 4955.56] just a little bit more clearly this morning, -[4955.56 --> 4958.92] our trust may be grown, -[4959.78 --> 4962.14] our faith may be solidified, -[4962.14 --> 4965.78] and our purpose going forward from this place -[4965.78 --> 4967.82] may be more clear. -[4968.66 --> 4971.42] We worship you, Lord Jesus. -[4972.22 --> 4974.36] In your great and holy name we pray. -[4975.08 --> 4975.48] Amen. -[4975.48 --> 4975.54] Amen. -[4976.22 --> 4976.78] Amen. -[4976.78 --> 4977.78] Now básch. -[4977.78 --> 4979.38] O time you bear in your 90s -[4979.44 --> 4981.00] will in your hopes, -[4981.00 --> 4982.10] yeaieren, -[4982.10 --> 4985.86] that you might not earn. -[4986.16 --> 4988.44] Here you may be 2012 chapter 19, -[4988.54 --> 4989.86] Now préspt inicial, -[4989.86 --> 4991.28] name the young man, -[4991.38 --> 4993.96] it's fifth, -[4993.96 --> 4996.66] and the young man, -[4996.66 --> 4997.60] and the young man, -[4997.60 --> 5000.22] who shall pass putting word now now, -[5000.84 --> 5001.90] by chance for you it. -[5001.90 --> 5002.38] John staff in the plainin' -[5002.38 --> 5002.86] and it's fourth, -[5002.86 --> 5003.10] So apa 꺼ng got it. -[5003.10 --> 5003.48] Amen. -[5003.48 --> 5015.48] Who has held the oceans in His hands? Who has numbered every grain of sand? -[5015.48 --> 5026.26] Kings and nations tremble at His voice. All creation rises to rejoice. -[5026.26 --> 5038.26] Behold our God seated on His throne. Come let us adore Him. -[5038.26 --> 5052.26] Behold our King nothing can compare. Come let us adore Him. -[5056.26 --> 5070.26] Who has given counsel to the Lord? Who can question any of His words? -[5070.26 --> 5081.26] Who can teach the one who knows all things? Who can fathom all His wondrous deeds? -[5081.26 --> 5091.26] Behold our God seated on His throne. Come let us adore Him. -[5091.26 --> 5105.26] Behold our King nothing can compare. Come let us adore Him. -[5105.26 --> 5123.26] Who has felt the nails upon His hands? Bearing all the kilt of sinful man. -[5123.26 --> 5134.26] God eternal humble to the grave. Jesus Savior risen now to reign. -[5134.26 --> 5136.26] God eternal to His Son. -[5136.26 --> 5138.26] God eternal to the Lord? Who can bless the Lord? Who has given counsel to the Lord? -[5138.26 --> 5141.26] Who has given counsel to the Lord? Who has given counsel to the Lord? -[5141.26 --> 5144.26] God eternal to the earth. Come let us adore Him. -[5144.26 --> 5157.26] Behold our King, nothing can compare, come let us adore Him. -[5157.26 --> 5179.26] You will reign for our Lord, let your glory fill the earth. -[5179.26 --> 5189.26] Behold our God, seated on His throne, come let us adore Him. -[5189.26 --> 5203.26] Behold our King, nothing can compare, come let us adore Him. -[5209.26 --> 5217.34] As you go, beholding God, know that you are held by Him. -[5217.86 --> 5223.74] And so go with His blessing for the journey of life and faith in these next days and weeks to come. -[5224.06 --> 5228.26] If you'd like to meet with someone for prayer, there will be someone up here after service. -[5228.34 --> 5229.96] They would love to meet you and pray with you. -[5229.96 --> 5236.26] Otherwise, I encourage everyone to gather for fellowship, for some refreshments in the foyer back there. -[5236.34 --> 5238.28] Receive the blessing of God. -[5239.26 --> 5243.40] God, go before you to lead you. -[5244.24 --> 5246.66] God, go behind you to protect you. -[5247.48 --> 5249.78] God, go beneath you to support you. -[5250.14 --> 5252.88] And God, go beside you to befriend you. -[5253.34 --> 5255.18] Do not be afraid. -[5255.18 --> 5257.56] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5257.72 --> 5265.00] Do not be afraid, but go in His peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5265.96 --> 5266.44] Amen. -[5269.26 --> 5281.80] Great is He who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[5281.80 --> 5284.64] He is wonderful. -[5284.64 --> 5296.04] Great is He who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[5296.04 --> 5298.92] He is wonderful. -[5298.92 --> 5301.26] Great is He who's the King of kings and the Lord of lords. -[5301.26 --> 5302.38] Hallelujah. -[5302.38 --> 5303.14] He is wonderful. -[5303.14 --> 5303.90] Alleluia. -[5303.90 --> 5304.46] Hallelujah. -[5304.46 --> 5304.92] Hallelujah. -[5304.92 --> 5306.02] Alexander. -[5306.02 --> 5306.40] He is wonderful. -[5306.40 --> 5306.90] Hallelujah. -[5306.90 --> 5307.92] Hallelujah. -[5307.92 --> 5308.84] Hallelujah. -[5308.84 --> 5309.62] Hallelujah. -[5311.74 --> 5325.44] He is wonderful. -[5325.44 --> 5327.72] He is wonderful. -[5330.06 --> 5331.46] Hallelujah. -[5332.64 --> 5335.48] Salvation and glory. -[5336.20 --> 5338.70] Honor and power. -[5339.40 --> 5341.90] He is wonderful. -[5344.02 --> 5345.66] Hallelujah. -[5346.94 --> 5349.62] Salvation and glory. -[5350.42 --> 5352.72] Honor and power. -[5352.72 --> 5356.10] He is wonderful. -[5358.36 --> 5359.72] Hallelujah. -[5360.98 --> 5363.72] Salvation and glory. -[5364.52 --> 5366.84] Honor and power. -[5367.62 --> 5370.28] He is wonderful. -[5372.16 --> 5373.94] Hallelujah. -[5375.20 --> 5377.92] Salvation and glory. -[5378.76 --> 5381.06] Honor and power. -[5381.06 --> 5384.96] You are wonderful. -[5384.96 --> 5385.02] You are wonderful. -[5385.02 --> 5387.02] You are wonderful. -[5387.02 --> 5388.66] Cinderella. -[5388.66 --> 5392.82] N pensa grande e tal plan. -[5394.42 --> 5396.48] ho ho ho ho ho ho ho... -[5398.98 --> 5400.42] Acosta. -[5400.42 --> 5430.40] Thank you. -[5430.42 --> 5460.40] Thank you. -[5460.42 --> 5490.40] Thank you. -[5490.42 --> 5520.40] Thank you. -[5520.42 --> 5550.40] Thank you. -[5550.42 --> 5552.42] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, October 5, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, October 5, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ea5bb3bd342c86d3e210af3af88f55e689cc7efd..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, October 5, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,118 +0,0 @@ -• Reiteration of confidence and faith in Jesus Christ -• Emphasis on building one's life on a strong foundation, specifically Christ -• References to scripture and creation -• Expression of surrender and devotion to God -• Repetition of standing firm and unwavering commitment to faith -• Declaration of trusting in Jesus through trials and challenges -• Kevin accepted a call to join the church -• Upcoming events: youth barbecue and Bible reading group meeting -• Last day to sign up for Mexico mission trip during spring break -• Announcement from Paul Kuhl about next steps for Kevin's examination on October 21st -• Worship service, including welcome and introduction to the presence of God -• Discussion of Christian hymns and worship songs -• Reading from Psalm 51 for confession and prayer -• Prayer for mercy, transformation, and restoration of joy in salvation -• Confessional prayers seeking forgiveness and a deeper relationship with God -• A speaker mentions the phrase "My life is about to do" multiple times -• Discussion of God's compassion and love, citing Psalm 103 -• References to grace and salvation through the blood of the Lamb -• A reading or singing of "Amazing Grace" -• Mention of being lost but now found, blind but now seeing, and chains being gone -• Offering for the church's ministries and C10 -• Overview of C10 as a missionary sending organization -• Uriel and Jody's work in Rosarito, Mexico at El Faro Men's Home and their ministry with bilingual sons Jonathan and Antonio -• Financial support from the congregation for the family's ministry and mission work -• Worship service with singing and prayer -• Discussion of children's worship time with the preschoolers -• Story about Solomon in Ecclesiastes and his request for wisdom -• Examples of things people wait for that don't live up to expectations -• Announcement from a pastoral elder about abuse prevention training -• Reading of the Nicene Creed -• Church family prayer led by the pastoral elder -• Prayers for those in need, including the homeless, addicted, orphans, widows, prisoners of war, oppressed, hungry, thirsty, mentally distressed, physically ailing, elderly, and unborn. -• Specific prayers for individuals: Tessa (colon cancer), Clary Klosterhoff's sister Carolyn (head-on collision recovery), John Kuypers (scope procedure diagnosis). -• Blessings and gratitude for the church's ministries and volunteers. -• Declaration of faith in one Lord, Jesus Christ, as God's begotten Son. -• Jesus Christ's return and judgment -• Incarnation and purpose of Jesus -• Forgiveness and path to eternal life through Jesus' sacrifice -• Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit -• Role of the Holy Spirit in giving life and conviction of sin -• Importance of faith and worship of the Trinity -• Belief in one holy, universal, and apostolic church -• Baptism and remission of sins -• Resurrection of the dead and eternal life to come -• Invitation to read Ecclesiastes 1 and explore the book -• The passage discusses the fleeting nature of human endeavors and the meaninglessness of life -• Generations come and go, but the earth remains forever, with the sun rising and setting in a cyclical pattern -• Everything is wearisome, and people's eyes are never satisfied with what they see or their ears with what they hear -• There is nothing new under the sun, and everything that has been done will be done again -• The search for meaning and purpose in life is discussed, particularly in a postmodern context where traditional values have faded away -• Friedrich Nietzsche's philosophy of nihilism is mentioned as an influence on modern thought and culture -• The idea that people try to invent meanings or reject the concept of meaning altogether is explored -• Nietzsche's idea that the pathos of in vain is the nihilist's pathos -• Existence has no inherent meaning or purpose, and life is a result of fatality rather than design -• The concept of purpose is an invention and lacks reality -• Examples of similar ideas in modern media: Rick and Morty, True Detective, Ecclesiastes -• Meaninglessness of life -• Havel (a biblical phrase) -• Vapidity of existence -• Enigma/Elusiveness of truth -• Futility of human labor -• Reversal of generations in Hebrew phrasing -• Fleeting nature of human life -• Cycle of life without permanence or purpose -• Earth remains forever due to humanity's constant coming and going with no lasting impact -• Fatality of nature cannot be disentangled from fate of all things -• Sun rises and sets in a repetitive, exhausting cycle -• No advancement, profit, or true progress is achieved by the sun -• Wind blows in a circular motion, ever returning to its course despite appearing free and unpredictable -• The repetition of activity with no gain or fulfillment -• The natural world mirroring humanity's futility and restlessness -• The cycle of life being repetitive, with events recurring endlessly -• Humanity's endless seeking, consuming, and striving for experience and knowledge, but ultimately finding nothing new -• The concept that what has been will be again, with no progress or change -• The repetitive nature of human striving and pursuit of satisfaction -• The idea that meaning and purpose are often tied to external goals or achievements -• Critique of the notion that success or happiness can be found through material possessions or external validation -• The teacher's question about what is truly gained from all our striving and accomplishing -• A personal anecdote about reading a book in high school that questions the nature of human achievement. -• The protagonist, Duddy Kravitz, grows up in Montreal with a deep-seated desire to acquire land and own property. -• This obsession stems from the idea that owning land will give him identity, worth, and meaning. -• As Duddy's ambition grows, he begins to use people, take advantage of them, and deceive others to achieve his goal. -• He meets Yvette Durell, one of the few people in the story with whom he shares a genuine relationship, but ultimately loses her and alienates everyone else due to his pursuit of land ownership. -• In the end, Duddy achieves his goal of owning property, but at a terrible cost, including losing those who cared for him. -• The speaker describes a person's empty and alone existence despite striving for wealth and success. -• The phrase "under the sun" is discussed as a major qualifier used by the teacher in Ecclesiastes to describe human life without reference to God. -• The teacher's secular perspective views the world from a human experience standpoint, leading to the conclusion that life without God is meaningless. -• The book of Ecclesiastes is set in a cultural context where people thought it was written by Solomon. -• The book of Ecclesiastes is likely written sometime between the 3rd and 5th century BC. -• There are challenges to the dominant assumption that Solomon wrote the book, dating back to Martin Luther in the 16th century. -• Some scholars argue for a later authorship based on Hebrew structure comparisons with the Book of Ecclesiastes. -• The intent is to make the reader think of Solomon as a wise and wealthy teacher, not necessarily an actual historical figure. -• The book's content suggests a person of capability, status, and means who goes on an intellectual journey. -• The region around Israel is a cultural and geographical crossroads. -• Israel's shift from an agrarian society to a gateway between Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe creates opportunities for economic and cultural diversity. -• The book of Ecclesiastes presents choices and challenges in navigating competing visions for life, distractions, and conflicting ideas about what is good and evil. -• Life without God is fleeting, elusive, repetitive, and lacks meaning according to the book of Ecclesiastes. -• The teacher in the book pulls no punches in presenting this idea, which is supported by scripture. -• The speaker discusses the importance of meaning-making in human life and how people give significance to their experiences. -• They explore whether this meaning rises to a universal level or is specific to each individual. -• A chair is used as an example of something that transcends its particular instances, suggesting that there may be a shared understanding or concept beyond individual experiences. -• The speaker touches on the idea that true meaning and purpose can only be found by looking beyond oneself and acknowledging a higher power or creator. -• This perspective is echoed in Jesus' teachings in Matthew 16, which emphasizes the importance of seeking a relationship with God over worldly gain. -• The meaning and purpose of labor is found only through God in Christ -• Suffering has purpose because it is preparing us for an eternal weight of glory -• Jesus' life, death, and resurrection bring freedom and real life to believers -• Labor done in Him and for Him has eternal significance -• Apart from God, all labor and life is without meaning -• Through Jesus Christ, a new creation is made, bringing joy and purpose to believers -• Praying for a deeper understanding of God's purposes and living on Him as foundation -• Seeking new Holy Spirit imaginations to find meaning in life's drudgery and repetition -• Trusting in Jesus' blood and righteousness, not human efforts or emotions -• Recognizing Christ alone is the source of strength and salvation -• Embracing a life surrendered to God, knowing His presence and blessing accompany us -• Affirming God's sovereignty and security, even in uncertainty and struggle -• Expression of surrender and devotion to Lord Christ -• Reiteration of not belonging to oneself, but to God -• Gratitude and thanksgiving \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, October 5, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, October 5, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b47f98501ea73d2640df0468dc8d6ad8e682d254..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, October 5, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2233 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 7.92] Every season, so why would he fail now? -[8.64 --> 10.00] He won't. -[12.16 --> 14.00] He won't. -[17.00 --> 20.00] He won't fail. -[22.70 --> 25.00] He won't fail. -[25.00 --> 29.00] He won't. -[30.00 --> 32.00] No, no, no, no. -[32.00 --> 36.00] He won't. -[37.00 --> 42.00] He won't fail. -[42.00 --> 46.00] He won't fail. -[46.00 --> 51.00] Christ is my firm foundation. -[51.00 --> 56.00] The rock on which I stand. -[56.00 --> 60.00] When everything around me is shaking. -[62.00 --> 65.00] I've never been more glad. -[66.00 --> 70.00] I put my faith in Jesus. -[70.00 --> 74.00] He's never let me down. -[74.00 --> 78.00] He's faithful through generations. -[78.00 --> 84.00] So why would he fail now? -[84.00 --> 86.00] He won't. -[86.00 --> 90.00] He won't. -[90.00 --> 92.00] He won't. -[92.00 --> 94.00] He won't. -[94.00 --> 96.00] He won't fail. -[96.00 --> 98.00] He won't fail. -[98.00 --> 103.00] He won't fail. -[128.00 --> 137.00] Rain came and went blue, but my house was built on you. -[137.00 --> 146.00] I'm safe with you, I'm gonna make it through. -[146.00 --> 156.00] Rain came and went blue, but my house was built on you. -[156.00 --> 165.00] I'm safe with you, I'm gonna make it through. -[165.00 --> 175.00] Rain came and went blue, but my house was built on you. -[175.00 --> 184.00] I'm safe with you, I'm gonna make it through. -[184.00 --> 189.00] Yeah, I'm gonna make it through. -[189.00 --> 193.00] Cause I'm standing strong on you. -[193.00 --> 199.00] Yeah, I'm gonna make it through. -[199.00 --> 202.00] Cause my house is built on you. -[202.00 --> 208.00] Christ is my first foundation. -[208.00 --> 212.00] The rock on which I stand. -[212.00 --> 218.00] When everything around me is shaking. -[218.00 --> 221.00] I've never been more glad. -[221.00 --> 227.00] I put my faith in Jesus. -[227.00 --> 231.00] Cause He's never let me down. -[231.00 --> 237.00] His faith will build generations. -[237.00 --> 241.00] So why would He fail now? -[241.00 --> 242.00] He won't! -[242.00 --> 246.00] Hey! -[246.00 --> 247.00] He won't! -[247.00 --> 252.00] He won't fail. -[252.00 --> 265.00] He won't! -[265.00 --> 269.00] He won't! -[269.00 --> 270.00] He won't fail. -[270.00 --> 272.00] He won't fail. -[272.00 --> 274.00] He won't fail. -[274.00 --> 275.00] He won't fail. -[275.00 --> 276.00] No, He won't. -[276.00 --> 303.00] You, He won't fail. -[303.00 --> 312.88] You stood before creation -[312.88 --> 319.96] Eternity in your hand -[319.96 --> 327.14] You spoke the earth into motion -[327.14 --> 331.48] My soul had to stand -[331.48 --> 341.52] You stood before my failure -[341.52 --> 348.86] Carried the cross for my sin -[348.86 --> 356.16] My sin went upon your shoulders -[356.16 --> 360.04] My soul had to stand -[360.04 --> 366.78] What could I say -[366.78 --> 374.78] And what could I do -[374.78 --> 383.52] But offer this heart, oh God -[383.52 --> 389.52] Completely to you -[389.52 --> 399.82] So I walk upon salvation -[399.82 --> 407.26] Your spirit alive in me -[407.26 --> 412.00] This life to declare -[412.00 --> 415.00] Your promise -[415.00 --> 419.08] My soul now to stand -[419.08 --> 426.00] So what could I say -[426.00 --> 432.74] And what could I do -[432.74 --> 433.74] And what could I do -[433.74 --> 441.74] And offer this heart, oh God -[441.74 --> 449.48] Completely to you -[449.48 --> 458.22] Completely to you -[458.22 --> 466.96] Completely to you -[466.96 --> 471.70] But offer this heart, oh God -[471.70 --> 479.70] Completely to you -[479.70 --> 485.70] Completely to you -[485.70 --> 502.44] Completely to you -[502.44 --> 503.16] So here we are -[503.16 --> 505.44] Stand, stand, stand -[505.44 --> 508.18] And I'll stand -[508.18 --> 508.90] And I'll stand -[508.90 --> 513.18] With arms high and unabandoned -[513.18 --> 514.92] At all of the Lord -[514.92 --> 520.92] In all of the one who gave it all -[520.92 --> 522.66] I'll stand -[522.66 --> 523.66] I'll stand -[523.66 --> 524.66] I'll stand -[524.66 --> 525.66] My soul now to you -[525.66 --> 526.66] I'll stand -[526.66 --> 527.66] And I'll stand -[527.66 --> 528.66] And I'll stand -[528.66 --> 529.40] I'll stand -[529.40 --> 538.40] I'll stand -[538.40 --> 547.40] I'll stand -[547.40 --> 549.60] And I'll stand -[549.84 --> 552.40] I'll stand -[552.40 --> 554.68] I'll stand -[554.68 --> 558.40] I'll stand -[558.40 --> 562.48] Is your home. -[563.80 --> 567.12] I'll stay with us. -[567.12 --> 569.64] I am unabended. -[570.56 --> 577.10] In awe of the one who gave it all. -[577.72 --> 582.66] I'll send my soul to you. -[582.66 --> 586.34] Surrender all I am. -[586.34 --> 616.32] I'll send my soul to you. -[616.34 --> 619.04] I'm going to invite Paul Kuhl up to the front. -[619.18 --> 621.40] He's going to make an announcement from Council. -[627.44 --> 628.40] Good morning. -[630.12 --> 639.04] It is my pleasure to announce that we have a signed letter of acceptance of call from Kevin. -[639.04 --> 655.04] So the next steps will be at classes on Tuesday evening the 21st. -[655.04 --> 658.60] And I don't know exactly the time. -[658.60 --> 665.86] But in 7 o'clock, Kevin will be examined by classes. -[666.70 --> 671.08] So you're all invited to be there to heckle. -[671.18 --> 672.54] I mean support him. -[672.54 --> 677.56] Let's get everybody out. -[677.60 --> 679.76] As many people as we can. -[680.38 --> 683.42] For Tuesday evening at Fleetwood Church. -[683.76 --> 683.96] Sorry. -[685.56 --> 688.28] So Tuesday evening the 21st of October. -[688.84 --> 689.68] 7 p.m. -[689.68 --> 690.54] At Fleetwood. -[690.54 --> 692.72] Thank you. -[696.10 --> 696.94] Thanks, Paul. -[697.28 --> 698.06] And thanks, Kevin. -[699.00 --> 700.84] I was very anxious for at least three hours. -[700.84 --> 704.76] We have a couple more announcements to make. -[705.76 --> 711.26] First, after worship today, youth are gathering for a barbecue here. -[711.48 --> 718.02] And so after fellowship in that time, it eventually will transition and youth will be here for a barbecue. -[718.38 --> 720.74] If you have any questions about that, you can talk to Pastor Kevin. -[721.00 --> 721.86] He will address them. -[721.86 --> 732.70] As well, today, probably with a little bit of grace in there too, but is the last technical official day for the Mexico mission sign up. -[732.82 --> 741.78] And so if you're interested in going on that trip during the spring break to Mexico, please talk to Brandon Muller or Pastor Kevin. -[742.32 --> 743.92] You can get some more information there. -[743.92 --> 756.16] And then last announcement from me anyway is this Wednesday, through the Bible reading group, is meeting for our second meeting. -[756.88 --> 761.06] We were to have read or are still in the midst of reading the book of Matthew. -[761.24 --> 766.86] And then we'll come together on Wednesday from 7 to 8 to discuss that reading together. -[767.16 --> 770.56] If you didn't come to the first one, you are more than welcome to come to the second one. -[770.56 --> 774.50] Just read Matthew and then come on out and have a good conversation with us. -[775.58 --> 783.00] Let's stand together that we might be welcomed into worship by our good God and ushered into his presence. -[783.12 --> 791.18] We know God is among us because he promises that he gathers and when he draws his people that he is there in a special way. -[791.38 --> 793.80] And we mark that by receiving his greeting. -[794.18 --> 796.64] So I'm going to extend to you the greeting of God. -[796.64 --> 802.56] And then afterwards, I invite you to turn to those around you and to welcome them into worship in the name of our good God as well. -[802.96 --> 804.36] Receive the greeting of God. -[805.74 --> 806.16] Grace. -[807.46 --> 807.78] Mercy. -[808.56 --> 809.22] Peace to you. -[809.92 --> 810.72] From God our Father. -[810.84 --> 814.08] From the Lord Jesus Christ, Son and our Savior. -[814.62 --> 816.82] Through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[817.64 --> 817.94] Amen. -[821.24 --> 822.04] Peace of Christ. -[822.04 --> 822.10] Amen. -[826.64 --> 831.08] So great. -[831.08 --> 831.92] Thanks. -[831.98 --> 832.20] Friends. -[833.74 --> 835.48] 10 seoul. -[835.70 --> 835.80] Thank you. -[836.02 --> 836.20] Peace of Christ. -[836.72 --> 837.46] We'llかないで. -[837.54 --> 837.74] Thank you. -[837.92 --> 838.32] Peace of Christ. -[838.84 --> 839.10] Verse 10 seoul. -[839.46 --> 839.96] Peace. -[840.10 --> 840.38] Then we'll romney. -[841.02 --> 841.12] The Lord die dennisfil heめ98. -[841.30 --> 841.32] » -[844.08 --> 845.42] Neiau jettuma Emperor. -[845.70 --> 847.16] のめく fundamentの何が私の教イの交換を支ound into. -[847.44 --> 848.16] One。 -[848.24 --> 848.92] オルowmanは战進 fois祝いたら. -[849.06 --> 850.44] We'll its繁寺に行噒èneの陰 Hess billを表現するaho。 -[850.52 --> 852.06] Was it waveото提も宜帳? -[852.06 --> 853.18] The Lord's vedere材表現昼の説定について change. -[853.18 --> 853.70] Yes. -[853.84 --> 854.30] My God. -[854.30 --> 860.26] Oh my goodness. -[861.34 --> 861.72] Okay. -[862.50 --> 866.18] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 100. -[867.22 --> 870.50] Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth. -[871.40 --> 872.98] Serve the Lord with gladness. -[873.76 --> 875.52] Come into his presence with singing. -[876.36 --> 878.88] Know that the Lord, he is good. -[879.78 --> 882.60] It is he who made us, and we are his. -[882.60 --> 886.30] We are his people and the sheep of his pasture. -[887.34 --> 891.46] Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise. -[892.56 --> 893.68] Give thanks to him. -[894.26 --> 895.10] Bless his name. -[895.58 --> 897.20] For the Lord is good. -[897.60 --> 903.12] His steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations. -[912.60 --> 929.42] Come people of the risen few who divide to bring him praise. -[929.42 --> 934.12] Come all into your hearts to sing. -[934.12 --> 937.82] For the morning's heart of praise. -[938.28 --> 945.88] From the shifting shadows of the earth, to the dead, I still sing. -[945.88 --> 954.34] With steady arms of mercy, each true power to bring. -[955.74 --> 963.10] Rejoice, rejoice, let every tongue rejoice. -[963.34 --> 967.28] One heart, one voice. -[967.28 --> 970.28] O church of Christ rejoice. -[970.28 --> 971.28] O church of Christ rejoice. -[971.28 --> 972.28] Come all into your love, just hold ye. -[972.28 --> 977.08] You who can open, "'T birro cabin' misусов. -[977.08 --> 977.28] Let us sing in half the times. -[977.96 --> 978.76] Come all to today. -[979.76 --> 981.84] Who cried, "' shifts to the court." -[981.84 --> 985.48] Let those of us rank us for six days. -[985.66 --> 986.86] Now come to see how this battle iswater. -[986.96 --> 992.42] Come all the night's fight, but how this battle is worthhing in our eyes. -[992.42 --> 1002.62] For His perfect love will never change, and His mercies never cease. -[1002.62 --> 1010.96] But follow us through all our days with the servant of the King. -[1012.18 --> 1019.46] Rejoice, rejoice, let every tongue rejoice. -[1019.46 --> 1026.86] One heart, one voice, O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[1033.66 --> 1042.34] Come young and old from every land and in women art of faith. -[1042.34 --> 1050.42] Come those whose full or empty hands, under the image of His grace. -[1051.10 --> 1058.34] Over all the world His people sing, but to show we live them all. -[1059.40 --> 1066.34] The truth that flies through every age, our God is all in all. -[1066.34 --> 1075.68] Rejoice, rejoice, let every tongue rejoice. -[1075.68 --> 1083.30] One heart, one voice, O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[1085.30 --> 1091.68] Rejoice, rejoice, let every tongue rejoice. -[1092.68 --> 1099.64] One heart, one voice, O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[1099.64 --> 1108.10] One heart, one voice, O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[1108.10 --> 1108.98] The truth of the Lord, O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[1108.98 --> 1111.58] The truth of the Lord, O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[1111.58 --> 1113.58] Amen. -[1141.58 --> 1143.58] Amen. -[1171.58 --> 1173.58] Amen. -[1201.58 --> 1203.58] Amen. -[1231.58 --> 1233.58] Amen. -[1261.58 --> 1263.58] Amen. -[1291.58 --> 1293.58] Amen. -[1321.58 --> 1323.58] Amen. -[1325.58 --> 1326.58] You may be seated. -[1338.58 --> 1344.58] In our time of confession, please join me in a prayer of Psalm 51, -[1344.58 --> 1350.58] where David cries out from the deepest part of his soul for mercy and transformation. -[1350.58 --> 1351.58] Let's pray. -[1352.58 --> 1357.58] Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love. -[1357.58 --> 1362.58] According to your abundant mercy, blot out my transgressions. -[1362.58 --> 1368.58] Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. -[1368.58 --> 1373.58] Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. -[1373.58 --> 1376.58] Let me hear joy and gladness. -[1376.58 --> 1378.58] Let the bones that you have broken rejoice. -[1378.58 --> 1384.58] Restore to me the joy of my salvation and uphold me with a willing spirit. -[1384.58 --> 1385.58] Restore in me the joy of my salvation. -[1385.58 --> 1386.58] Take me back to where it all began. -[1386.58 --> 1387.58] Where all I ever wanted was your friend. -[1387.58 --> 1388.58] Restore in me the joy of my salvation. -[1388.58 --> 1389.58] Restore in me the joy of my salvation. -[1389.58 --> 1391.58] Restore in me the joy of my salvation. -[1391.58 --> 1397.58] Restore in me the joy of my salvation. -[1397.58 --> 1403.58] Restore in me the joy of my salvation. -[1403.58 --> 1417.58] Take me back to where it all began, where all I ever wanted was your presence. -[1420.14 --> 1426.58] How I longed to be there once again. -[1426.58 --> 1433.58] Light of fire, path the light and burn up and play. -[1433.58 --> 1437.58] Tell nothing between us we made. -[1437.58 --> 1443.58] My life is an altar to you. -[1443.58 --> 1450.58] Breathe again, haunt me, ever so good is my heart. -[1450.58 --> 1454.58] I'll take you back to the start. -[1454.58 --> 1459.58] My life is an altar to you. -[1459.58 --> 1469.58] Move me, a glory, a living spirit. -[1469.58 --> 1486.58] Take me back to where it all began, where all it all began, where all it all began so complicated. -[1486.58 --> 1493.58] How I longed to be there once again. -[1493.58 --> 1499.58] Light of fire, path the world can burn up and play. -[1499.58 --> 1503.58] Tell nothing between us we made. -[1503.58 --> 1509.58] My life is an altar to you. -[1509.58 --> 1516.58] Breathe again, haunt me, ever so good is my heart. -[1516.58 --> 1520.58] Love, love, take you back to the start. -[1520.58 --> 1524.58] My life is an altar to you. -[1524.58 --> 1526.58] Love, love, take you back to you. -[1526.58 --> 1527.58] Love, love, take you back to you. -[1527.58 --> 1529.58] Love, love, take you back to you. -[1529.58 --> 1530.58] God, I'm sorry. -[1530.58 --> 1534.58] Please forgive me. -[1534.58 --> 1539.58] For when I'm gone cold, -[1539.58 --> 1543.58] God, I need you. -[1543.58 --> 1546.58] Now I need you. -[1547.58 --> 1553.58] To awake my soul. -[1553.58 --> 1557.58] pour you. -[1557.58 --> 1558.58] Kill the мех. -[1558.58 --> 1560.58] of me, ever so good. -[1560.58 --> 1561.58] Fill the профilpper 사람들, -[1561.58 --> 1563.58] خ Gast God hole, -[1563.58 --> 1568.58] die, -[1568.58 --> 1575.58] whitelssinated angry ε該 -[1575.58 --> 1576.58] Biographer washing INFORMvik號 -[1576.58 --> 1578.58] Bayaudς -[1578.58 --> 1581.58] en summertime -[1581.58 --> 1583.90] My life is about to do. -[1611.58 --> 1641.56] My life is about to do. -[1641.58 --> 1644.64] My life is about to do. -[1645.16 --> 1650.12] Where are you, Lord? -[1652.12 --> 1666.32] Where are you, Lord? -[1666.32 --> 1668.38] Where are you, Lord? -[1668.38 --> 1672.34] It's your breath in our lungs. -[1672.76 --> 1676.90] We fill our place for all our places. -[1676.90 --> 1680.38] It's your breath in our lungs. -[1680.38 --> 1684.38] We fill our place for all our places. -[1684.38 --> 1688.40] It's your breath in our lungs. -[1688.90 --> 1692.38] We fill our place for all our places. -[1692.38 --> 1696.44] It's your breath in our lungs. -[1696.44 --> 1700.44] We fill our place for all our places. -[1700.44 --> 1708.96] We fill our place for all our places. -[1708.96 --> 1711.58] Dear God, I'm sorry. -[1711.58 --> 1717.58] Please forgive me. -[1717.58 --> 1721.58] Oh, when I can't go. -[1721.58 --> 1726.10] Lord, I need you. -[1726.10 --> 1730.10] How I need you. -[1730.10 --> 1736.10] To awake my soul. -[1736.10 --> 1756.62] Let's stand as we hear words of assurance from God this morning. -[1756.62 --> 1759.80] They come from Psalm 103. -[1759.80 --> 1761.80] Psalm 103. -[1761.80 --> 1765.80] The Lord is compassionate and gracious. -[1765.80 --> 1769.38] Slow to anger, abounding in love. -[1769.38 --> 1774.38] He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever. -[1774.38 --> 1780.38] He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. -[1780.38 --> 1787.76] For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him. -[1787.76 --> 1794.76] As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. -[1817.76 --> 1822.76] Only by grace can we enter. -[1822.76 --> 1827.76] Only by grace can we stand. -[1827.76 --> 1837.76] Not by our human endeavor, but by the blood of the Lamb. -[1837.76 --> 1846.76] Into your presence you call us, you call us to come. -[1846.76 --> 1851.76] Into your presence we draw. -[1851.76 --> 1856.76] Now by your grace we come. -[1856.76 --> 1861.76] Now by your grace we come. -[1861.76 --> 1873.76] Lord, if you mark our transgressions, who would stand? -[1873.76 --> 1880.76] f entre the hand, fenn. -[1880.76 --> 1884.76] May we pray to your grace in Him,EE office, but by the blood of the Lamb. -[1884.76 --> 1898.76] Now by grace God bless you, -[1898.76 --> 1901.58] the blood of the Lamb. -[1905.72 --> 1909.44] Only by grace can we enter. -[1910.80 --> 1914.00] Only by grace can we stand. -[1915.84 --> 1919.54] Not by our human endeavor, -[1919.54 --> 1925.38] but by the blood of the Lamb. -[1925.38 --> 1930.36] Into your presence you call us, -[1930.56 --> 1934.26] you call us to come. -[1935.84 --> 1940.62] Into your presence you draw us, -[1940.62 --> 1944.68] now by your grace we come. -[1946.06 --> 1950.10] Now by your grace we come. -[1955.38 --> 1963.38] How se -[1963.38 --> 1965.10] closed -[1965.10 --> 1967.68] in -[1967.68 --> 1996.38] Amazing grace, how sweet the sound -[1996.38 --> 2002.20] Has saved a wretch like me -[2002.20 --> 2008.14] I was once lost, but now I'm found -[2008.14 --> 2013.88] Was blind, but now I see -[2013.88 --> 2022.56] T'was grace that taught my heart to fear -[2022.56 --> 2027.56] And grace my fears relieved -[2027.56 --> 2034.02] From precious years and days of fear -[2034.02 --> 2037.56] And now I've heard me -[2037.56 --> 2044.70] My chains are gone, I feel set free -[2044.70 --> 2049.70] But now I see, Lord, I shall stop me -[2049.70 --> 2053.70] And now I've heard me -[2053.70 --> 2058.70] I've heard me, Lord, I'm found -[2058.70 --> 2061.70] Amazing grace -[2061.70 --> 2075.70] The Lord has promised good to me -[2075.70 --> 2080.70] His word my hopes and yours -[2080.70 --> 2085.70] He will my shield and fortune -[2085.70 --> 2091.70] As long as I endure -[2091.70 --> 2100.70] Through many dangers, toils and snails -[2100.70 --> 2105.70] I have a weapon, Lord -[2105.70 --> 2111.70] Till the waves of God be saved will start -[2111.70 --> 2116.70] And grace will lead me home -[2116.70 --> 2121.70] My chains are gone, I feel set free -[2121.70 --> 2128.70] My God, my Savior, my chains are gone, I feel free -[2128.70 --> 2133.70] And my God's love is most delayed -[2133.70 --> 2140.70] I am the love of amazing grace -[2140.70 --> 2154.70] And deep in there ten thousand years -[2154.70 --> 2159.70] They're shining as a star -[2159.70 --> 2165.70] We know the saints will see the praise -[2165.70 --> 2170.70] And when we hear the words begun -[2170.70 --> 2176.70] My chains are gone, I feel set free -[2176.70 --> 2181.70] My God, my Savior, my Savior, my Son free -[2181.70 --> 2187.70] And like a flood, there's mercy made -[2187.70 --> 2192.70] And an ending of amazing grace -[2192.70 --> 2201.70] The Lord has promised good to me -[2201.70 --> 2203.70] And if you are not the king -[2203.70 --> 2206.70] I am the love of amazing grace -[2206.70 --> 2209.70] And like a flood, there's mercy made -[2209.70 --> 2213.70] And an ending of amazing grace -[2213.70 --> 2216.70] This is my soul. -[2239.92 --> 2240.60] Good morning. -[2240.76 --> 2242.62] My name is Brenda, and I'm one of the deacons here. -[2242.62 --> 2246.48] It is time for our offering this morning. -[2247.16 --> 2251.58] Before that, I just want to actually give a plug for next week's offering. -[2252.04 --> 2256.08] Our offering next week for Thanksgiving Sunday is for the food bank, -[2256.56 --> 2263.16] and as this congregation has been an amazing support for our local Langley food bank, -[2263.68 --> 2266.82] and next week we have opportunity to give of our gifts -[2266.82 --> 2274.48] and also to bring non-perishable food items and such that you can bring up front next Sunday. -[2275.20 --> 2281.00] For today, our offerings are for our ministry, the ministries of this church, -[2281.24 --> 2284.76] and also for C10, which is commissioned to every nation. -[2284.76 --> 2290.68] And I have a message here for you from Jody and Uriel. -[2291.62 --> 2295.46] This morning the offering is for C10, Uriel and Jody Gonzalez. -[2296.16 --> 2301.70] C10 is a missionary sending organization which helps missionaries like Uriel and myself -[2301.70 --> 2304.84] fulfill the unique vision that God has given them. -[2305.44 --> 2308.16] Through administrative support, they provide accountability -[2308.16 --> 2311.44] and help the missionary actually get to the field. -[2312.08 --> 2315.44] Through pastoral care, they help us remain effective and healthy. -[2316.10 --> 2319.92] We are in contact with our pastoral care couple on a regular basis -[2319.92 --> 2323.70] as they pray for us and make sure that we have what we need -[2323.70 --> 2325.90] to do the ministry that we have been called to. -[2326.86 --> 2332.10] Uriel and I have been on the mission field here in Rosarito, Mexico, for 13 years. -[2332.46 --> 2333.38] It's a long time. -[2333.38 --> 2336.90] You might be wondering what we do all the way over here in Mexico. -[2338.04 --> 2341.78] Uriel runs a men's clean and sober living home called El Faro. -[2342.32 --> 2348.06] El Faro Men's Home continues to be a place where men struggling to get back into society -[2348.06 --> 2351.74] can come and receive the help and the discipline that they need. -[2352.42 --> 2359.88] We have men who work for a security company, as a call center agent, or as a mobile mechanic. -[2359.88 --> 2366.44] Without a home like El Faro, these men would not have an address to give their potential employer. -[2367.14 --> 2370.44] Without a physical address, you will not be hired here. -[2371.16 --> 2376.02] Life isn't always easy at El Faro, but in the end, we all realize that it is a blessing -[2376.02 --> 2378.76] to have the doors open and a bed available when needed. -[2379.70 --> 2381.70] Uriel also works as a security guard. -[2382.14 --> 2386.54] This is to show the men that it is important to work, to go to church, -[2386.62 --> 2388.22] and to be present with your family. -[2388.22 --> 2393.48] I, Jody, am the English Women's Ministry Leader at Calvary Chapel Rosarito. -[2393.96 --> 2395.74] I teach a Bible study on Friday mornings. -[2396.20 --> 2401.34] I am a Connections House breakfast cook and have started a crafting ministry called Interwoven. -[2401.84 --> 2405.50] We are also raising two young men, Jonathan and Antonio, -[2405.88 --> 2411.32] who are bilingual and are available to help when teams staying at Connections House need translators. -[2411.86 --> 2413.88] I've been told that they're a joy to be around. -[2413.88 --> 2420.02] Your financial support through the offering today is a huge blessing to our family. -[2420.76 --> 2425.28] It allows us to serve freely in the ministry areas that God has called us to be in. -[2425.58 --> 2426.04] Thank you. -[2426.50 --> 2429.52] We cherish your support through your prayers and your finances. -[2430.06 --> 2433.06] In Christ, Uriel, Jody, Jonathan and Antonio. -[2433.06 --> 2433.86] Just rise very well. -[2433.90 --> 2434.20] Thank you, sure, able. -[2439.40 --> 2441.26] We're still one of our small projects that we've done so much. -[2441.26 --> 2446.06] Thank you, everyone. -[2446.58 --> 2447.62] We're talking about some of our small projects that we've shown in many chapters. -[2447.62 --> 2449.94] We're listening. -[2450.10 --> 2451.38] jot the Kelly Consumer status ridden and justnels of the world to be around Ms. -[2453.52 --> 2454.44] Taylor's. -[2454.52 --> 2455.54] What about vacuuming and judologist? -[2455.64 --> 2456.46] Can you really ask me here? -[2456.58 --> 2457.46] Let's feel free to give hope -[2457.56 --> 2458.20] and have to hear CD out. -[2458.26 --> 2458.94] Every 날ship of you and our small Vou began круг. -[2459.02 --> 2460.10] And make a video available today and there is plupart bagers across. -[2460.10 --> 2461.02] And serving them. -[2461.12 --> 2462.04] There is a Organisation that they can help anything to be around. -[2462.04 --> 2475.70] Let the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, worship His holy name. -[2475.70 --> 2486.98] Sing my gala before, O my soul, I'll worship your holy name. -[2486.98 --> 2496.58] The sun comes up, it's a new day, darling. -[2496.58 --> 2501.88] It's time to sing your song again. -[2502.40 --> 2508.54] Whatever may pass and whatever lies before me, -[2509.68 --> 2515.52] let me be singing where the evening comes. -[2515.52 --> 2528.32] Let the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, worship His holy name. -[2528.32 --> 2540.32] Sing my gala before, O my soul, worship His holy name. -[2540.32 --> 2554.52] Your rich in love and your soul, O my soul, your name is great and your heart is mine. -[2554.52 --> 2560.26] For all your goodness, I will keep on singing. -[2560.26 --> 2567.26] Ten thousand reasons for my heart to find. -[2567.26 --> 2581.26] Let the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, worship His holy name. -[2581.26 --> 2591.26] Sing my gala before, O my soul, my worship His holy name. -[2591.26 --> 2601.26] And on that day when my strength is failing, -[2601.26 --> 2606.26] The end broke here and my time has gone. -[2606.26 --> 2620.26] Till my soul, O my soul, O my soul, O my soul, worship His holy name. -[2620.26 --> 2632.26] Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, worship His holy name. -[2632.26 --> 2642.26] Sing my gala before, O my soul, O my soul, worship His holy name. -[2642.26 --> 2654.26] Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, worship His holy name. -[2654.26 --> 2665.26] Sing my gala before, O my soul, I'll worship His holy name. -[2665.26 --> 2690.26] Sing my gala before, O my soul, worship His holy name. -[2690.26 --> 2691.26] Good morning, everybody. -[2691.26 --> 2697.26] Can I have the preschoolers age three all the way up to grade four come up to the front today? -[2697.26 --> 2707.26] Good morning. -[2707.26 --> 2710.26] Oh, a few stragglers. -[2710.26 --> 2711.26] Perfect. -[2711.26 --> 2715.26] I have a question for you guys. -[2715.26 --> 2722.26] Can you give me an example of something that you waited for a long time for and you got it -[2722.26 --> 2727.26] and it wasn't as exciting as you thought it would be? -[2727.26 --> 2728.26] What do you think? -[2728.26 --> 2732.26] A certain kind of candy. -[2732.26 --> 2738.26] I know sometimes I have a candy and then the gum flavor doesn't last as long as you thought it would be. -[2738.26 --> 2741.26] No candy. -[2741.26 --> 2742.26] No candy. -[2742.26 --> 2743.26] No candy. -[2743.26 --> 2754.26] Or a certain kind of clothing that you, I know that sometimes you get clothing and then it shrinks in the laundry so you don't have to have it as long as you want it to be. -[2754.26 --> 2755.26] Right? -[2755.26 --> 2764.26] So today in children's worship time we're going to talk about Solomon in Ecclesiastes and how he asked for some wisdom. -[2764.26 --> 2770.26] And there's certain things he asked for that he thought would make him happy but it didn't. -[2770.26 --> 2775.26] So we're going to have a few things in children's worship time with bubbles and other things. -[2775.26 --> 2777.26] So you'll have to tell your parents about that later. -[2777.26 --> 2779.26] So can everybody stand up? -[2781.26 --> 2783.26] And look towards the congregation. -[2783.26 --> 2785.26] We're going to give the blessing. -[2785.26 --> 2787.26] On one, two, three. -[2787.26 --> 2788.26] The Lord. -[2788.26 --> 2790.26] The Lord is with you. -[2790.26 --> 2791.26] The Lord is with you. -[2800.26 --> 2825.26] And we're going to ik raised the Periodist of Nurse and Lesixxi remotely and we're going follow jornal. -[2825.26 --> 2826.26] Good morning. -[2826.26 --> 2830.34] My name is Pim. I'm a pastoral elder here at Langley Emanuel. -[2831.40 --> 2836.80] And as a liaison between council and the Safe Ministries team, -[2837.64 --> 2840.76] just before the prayer, I have a short announcement from them -[2840.76 --> 2845.04] about abuse prevention night with Kim Prince. -[2846.32 --> 2849.86] All volunteers who work with vulnerable members of our church family -[2849.86 --> 2852.78] are required to have this training every three years. -[2852.78 --> 2857.60] And training will be happening on the 7th and the 21st. -[2858.90 --> 2861.34] So please ensure that you are up to date, -[2861.52 --> 2865.42] or especially if you're a new volunteer in our church family, -[2865.74 --> 2868.76] be sure to attend on one of these days. -[2875.90 --> 2881.60] Since 2025 is the 1700th birth year -[2881.60 --> 2883.58] of one of our most important creeds, -[2883.88 --> 2887.84] that is the Nicene Creed from 325 AD, -[2888.84 --> 2893.66] I will structure our church family prayer for today after this creed. -[2895.86 --> 2897.80] Just for some brief background, -[2898.04 --> 2903.68] the creed matters because it solidifies our core beliefs in a Trinitarian God. -[2903.68 --> 2912.00] Christ is fully divine with the Father and a fully divine Holy Spirit. -[2913.36 --> 2919.16] So we don't sing hymns or pray to a creature named Jesus. -[2919.16 --> 2925.02] No, we confess that he is one with the Father, -[2925.76 --> 2928.16] God from God, light from light, -[2928.98 --> 2930.90] true God from true God, -[2931.82 --> 2933.78] begotten, not made. -[2935.44 --> 2938.40] The creed, then, is a spiritual anchor -[2938.40 --> 2943.16] for Catholics, Orthodox Christians, and Protestants alike. -[2943.16 --> 2946.90] And it unites the church of all times and places -[2946.90 --> 2949.06] in the truth and foundational role -[2949.06 --> 2953.24] of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. -[2954.26 --> 2955.28] Let us pray. -[2958.44 --> 2959.72] Heavenly Father, -[2960.28 --> 2962.96] we are grateful that on this Sunday morning -[2962.96 --> 2965.46] we may come before you in our family prayer. -[2965.46 --> 2967.68] first of all, -[2968.46 --> 2970.88] to praise you as our Father Almighty, -[2972.04 --> 2973.34] maker of heaven and earth, -[2974.14 --> 2976.58] and of all things visible and invisible. -[2978.46 --> 2982.16] We thank you for your reign over all of existence, -[2983.14 --> 2986.70] both the material world and the spiritual realm, -[2987.40 --> 2992.88] with its unseen thrones, dominions, rulers, and authorities. -[2992.88 --> 2997.58] All is under your eternal care and providence, -[2997.92 --> 3001.16] and we rest secure in that assurance. -[3003.34 --> 3008.10] Thank you for everything you have graciously bestowed upon us this past week. -[3009.16 --> 3009.78] Food, -[3010.98 --> 3012.48] family and church community, -[3013.54 --> 3013.90] shelter, -[3014.90 --> 3015.52] work, -[3016.38 --> 3016.74] health, -[3017.74 --> 3018.32] peace, -[3019.60 --> 3020.02] order, -[3021.30 --> 3022.60] rain and sunshine, -[3022.88 --> 3024.34] forgiveness, -[3025.02 --> 3025.72] restoration, -[3027.02 --> 3029.10] freedom from fear and anxiety. -[3029.80 --> 3030.12] Indeed, -[3030.50 --> 3031.64] our very adoption -[3031.64 --> 3033.72] as your sons and daughters. -[3036.10 --> 3036.78] And yet, Lord, -[3036.88 --> 3038.78] as we thank you for all these blessings -[3038.78 --> 3040.36] and many more, -[3041.74 --> 3043.10] we also realize that -[3043.10 --> 3044.96] countless of our neighbors at home -[3044.96 --> 3045.80] and abroad -[3045.80 --> 3048.06] do not experience -[3048.06 --> 3049.66] such a full flourishing -[3049.66 --> 3050.62] of all your blessings. -[3050.62 --> 3054.58] and so we pray for the homeless, -[3055.08 --> 3056.30] the addicted, -[3057.14 --> 3059.10] the orphans and the widows, -[3059.76 --> 3061.64] the warmongers -[3061.64 --> 3064.44] and the prisoners of war, -[3065.08 --> 3067.14] the oppressors and the oppressed, -[3068.14 --> 3069.98] the hungry and the thirsty, -[3070.98 --> 3072.84] the mentally distressed -[3072.84 --> 3075.22] and the physically ailing, -[3075.22 --> 3078.70] the elderly and the unborn, -[3078.70 --> 3082.10] the weak and the strong. -[3082.10 --> 3085.46] Lord, -[3085.52 --> 3087.02] it doesn't take much to realize -[3087.02 --> 3088.48] we live in a broken world. -[3089.74 --> 3090.18] Continue, -[3090.58 --> 3091.10] we pray, -[3091.28 --> 3091.94] to heal -[3091.94 --> 3092.76] and restore -[3092.76 --> 3093.66] your creation. -[3095.94 --> 3097.44] We pray especially -[3097.44 --> 3098.40] for Tessa, -[3099.50 --> 3101.00] sister to Enica Last -[3101.00 --> 3102.90] and daughter to Jerry Jansen. -[3102.90 --> 3106.22] She will be operated on -[3106.22 --> 3107.28] for colon cancer -[3107.28 --> 3108.24] in about a week. -[3109.22 --> 3110.32] Bring her full healing, -[3110.62 --> 3110.82] Lord. -[3113.04 --> 3114.14] We pray for -[3114.14 --> 3115.26] Clary Klosterhoff's -[3115.26 --> 3115.94] younger sister, -[3116.12 --> 3116.44] Carolyn, -[3116.82 --> 3119.10] who was in a dramatic -[3119.10 --> 3120.22] head-on collision -[3120.22 --> 3121.96] and finds herself -[3121.96 --> 3123.04] on a long road -[3123.04 --> 3123.76] to recovery -[3123.76 --> 3126.02] from broken vertebrae -[3126.02 --> 3128.20] and a serious head injury. -[3129.70 --> 3130.94] We are grateful -[3130.94 --> 3132.68] that there is no paralysis. -[3135.24 --> 3137.30] Please restore her fully, Lord. -[3139.94 --> 3141.78] We pray for John Kuypers, -[3141.96 --> 3143.30] who underwent a successful -[3143.30 --> 3144.22] but painful -[3144.22 --> 3145.92] scope procedure. -[3147.30 --> 3148.52] Lord, bless him -[3148.52 --> 3150.54] with a favorable diagnosis -[3150.54 --> 3152.54] and much hope -[3152.54 --> 3153.24] and courage -[3153.24 --> 3154.28] in the days to come. -[3156.02 --> 3159.18] Bless the many ministries -[3159.18 --> 3159.82] at Emanuel -[3159.82 --> 3161.32] in the new ministry season. -[3162.38 --> 3163.70] We think especially -[3163.70 --> 3165.30] of the Safe Ministries team, -[3165.68 --> 3166.82] the ushers' ministry, -[3168.12 --> 3169.62] the Bible reading class, -[3170.20 --> 3170.62] cadets, -[3170.86 --> 3171.20] gems, -[3171.96 --> 3172.90] children's ministry, -[3173.14 --> 3173.88] coffee break, -[3174.40 --> 3175.34] the prayer hour, -[3176.20 --> 3177.02] youth coffee, -[3177.38 --> 3178.62] the nursery volunteers, -[3179.26 --> 3180.58] the men's Bible study -[3180.58 --> 3182.22] and our various -[3182.22 --> 3183.48] care groups. -[3186.02 --> 3190.48] Lord, you have blessed us richly -[3190.48 --> 3191.90] and you continue -[3191.90 --> 3193.18] to do so faithfully. -[3193.82 --> 3194.72] We bring you -[3194.72 --> 3196.34] our praise and gratitude. -[3199.18 --> 3200.80] Together with you, Father, -[3200.96 --> 3202.68] we also believe in one Lord, -[3202.96 --> 3203.74] Jesus Christ, -[3204.56 --> 3206.36] your only begotten Son, -[3207.94 --> 3209.02] begotten of you -[3209.02 --> 3211.22] before all worlds, -[3211.22 --> 3213.46] God of God, -[3213.66 --> 3214.56] light of light, -[3215.16 --> 3217.26] very God of very God, -[3218.30 --> 3219.74] begotten, not made, -[3220.08 --> 3221.32] being of one substance -[3221.32 --> 3222.84] with you, Father, -[3223.40 --> 3224.70] by whom all things -[3224.70 --> 3225.44] were made, -[3227.14 --> 3228.66] who, for us -[3228.66 --> 3230.00] and for our salvation, -[3230.24 --> 3231.30] came down from heaven -[3231.30 --> 3233.20] and was incarnate -[3233.20 --> 3234.46] by the Holy Spirit -[3234.46 --> 3236.94] of the Virgin Mary -[3236.94 --> 3239.62] and was made man -[3239.62 --> 3242.46] and was crucified -[3242.46 --> 3244.60] also for us -[3244.60 --> 3247.12] under Pontius Pilate. -[3249.12 --> 3250.08] He suffered -[3250.08 --> 3250.86] and was buried -[3250.86 --> 3251.78] and the third day -[3251.78 --> 3252.66] he rose again -[3252.66 --> 3253.82] according to the scriptures -[3253.82 --> 3256.00] and ascended into heaven -[3256.00 --> 3257.88] and sits on the right hand -[3257.88 --> 3258.54] of the Father -[3258.54 --> 3261.02] and he shall come again -[3261.02 --> 3262.34] with glory -[3262.34 --> 3263.42] to judge the living -[3263.42 --> 3264.02] and the dead -[3264.02 --> 3266.64] whose kingdom -[3266.64 --> 3267.84] shall have no end. -[3270.12 --> 3271.36] You, Lord Jesus, -[3271.50 --> 3272.48] became incarnate -[3272.48 --> 3273.38] and came to earth -[3273.38 --> 3274.30] to save us -[3274.30 --> 3275.16] from our sin -[3275.16 --> 3276.68] and its consequences. -[3277.56 --> 3278.94] We praise you -[3278.94 --> 3280.58] for providing the rescue -[3280.58 --> 3282.10] that we so clearly -[3282.10 --> 3283.02] are incapable -[3283.02 --> 3283.90] of achieving -[3283.90 --> 3284.86] on our own -[3284.86 --> 3286.96] and for offering -[3286.96 --> 3287.58] forgiveness -[3287.58 --> 3289.02] and the path -[3289.02 --> 3290.08] to eternal life. -[3291.40 --> 3293.16] Your double cure, -[3294.58 --> 3295.16] that is, -[3295.70 --> 3296.92] deliverance from sin -[3296.92 --> 3299.46] and the transformative power -[3299.46 --> 3300.34] to live a life -[3300.34 --> 3302.12] free from sin's influence, -[3303.12 --> 3304.90] makes us eternally grateful -[3304.90 --> 3305.48] and humble. -[3307.16 --> 3308.80] You came to seek -[3308.80 --> 3309.46] and save -[3309.46 --> 3310.80] that which was lost. -[3312.02 --> 3313.86] Praise be to your holy name. -[3313.86 --> 3317.88] Continue, we pray, -[3318.02 --> 3319.26] to shepherd your flock -[3319.26 --> 3320.18] with your strong -[3320.18 --> 3321.12] and perfect plea. -[3323.36 --> 3324.36] We praise you -[3324.36 --> 3325.48] for having our names -[3325.48 --> 3326.86] graven on your hands -[3326.86 --> 3328.54] and written on your heart. -[3329.74 --> 3331.00] Bless us with your work -[3331.00 --> 3332.86] as our great high priest -[3332.86 --> 3333.80] and advocate. -[3337.62 --> 3338.78] Together with the Father -[3338.78 --> 3339.38] and the Son, -[3339.48 --> 3340.62] we also believe in you, -[3340.74 --> 3341.50] Holy Spirit, -[3341.50 --> 3343.84] Lord and giver of life. -[3345.12 --> 3346.40] You proceed -[3346.40 --> 3347.30] from the Father -[3347.30 --> 3348.14] and the Son -[3348.14 --> 3350.20] and with the Father -[3350.20 --> 3351.18] and the Son together -[3351.18 --> 3352.56] you are worshipped -[3352.56 --> 3353.72] and glorified. -[3354.70 --> 3355.42] You spoke -[3355.42 --> 3356.26] by the prophets. -[3358.56 --> 3359.80] We thank you, -[3360.38 --> 3360.98] third person -[3360.98 --> 3361.62] of the Trinity, -[3361.96 --> 3362.84] for your spirit -[3362.84 --> 3364.08] as the giver of life, -[3364.50 --> 3366.12] for your active, -[3366.54 --> 3367.00] personal, -[3367.62 --> 3368.42] and fully -[3368.42 --> 3369.62] divine -[3369.62 --> 3370.72] presence. -[3371.50 --> 3372.86] enabling us -[3372.86 --> 3373.80] through conviction -[3373.80 --> 3374.76] of our sin, -[3375.72 --> 3376.24] renewal, -[3376.56 --> 3377.50] and purification -[3377.50 --> 3378.52] to live a life -[3378.52 --> 3379.94] glorifying the Father -[3379.94 --> 3381.06] and the Son. -[3383.92 --> 3385.20] We also believe -[3385.20 --> 3386.02] in one holy, -[3386.82 --> 3387.40] universal, -[3387.84 --> 3389.12] and apostolic church. -[3390.12 --> 3391.36] We acknowledge -[3391.36 --> 3392.48] one baptism -[3392.48 --> 3393.66] for the remission -[3393.66 --> 3394.34] of sins -[3394.34 --> 3396.26] and we look -[3396.26 --> 3396.98] for the resurrection -[3396.98 --> 3397.72] of the dead -[3397.72 --> 3399.06] and the life -[3399.06 --> 3399.74] of the world -[3399.74 --> 3400.48] to come. -[3400.92 --> 3401.76] Amen. -[3401.76 --> 3402.02] Amen. -[3402.02 --> 3428.96] I want to invite you, as you have the capacity, -[3428.96 --> 3432.06] to open your Bible, turn on your device. -[3432.34 --> 3435.42] If you would like a Bible in hand, there's a couple at the back. -[3435.52 --> 3437.46] I encourage you to grab one. -[3437.92 --> 3441.54] We're going to continue our look at the book of Ecclesiastes -[3441.54 --> 3445.62] by going now to the first chapter and the first verses. -[3446.34 --> 3451.00] Last week, we began this series by looking at the end -[3451.00 --> 3453.14] in order to understand where we were going. -[3453.28 --> 3455.36] Now we're coming back to the beginning. -[3456.34 --> 3459.72] If you missed last week and would like to recap it, -[3459.86 --> 3461.58] you can find it on the church website. -[3462.28 --> 3465.76] You can also every week listen to the podcast that we put out -[3465.76 --> 3469.62] as a way of digging deep into some of these things a little bit more. -[3470.42 --> 3473.18] I'm sure we will do the same again in the weeks to come. -[3474.66 --> 3478.96] With that in mind, let's read together Ecclesiastes 1, -[3478.96 --> 3481.32] the first 11 verses there. -[3481.32 --> 3489.94] The words of the teacher, son of David, king in Jerusalem. -[3491.48 --> 3494.66] Meaningless, meaningless, says the teacher. -[3495.70 --> 3497.58] Utterly meaningless. -[3498.52 --> 3501.20] Everything is meaningless. -[3501.20 --> 3508.32] What do people gain from all their labors at which they toil under the sun? -[3509.70 --> 3512.78] Generations come and generations go, -[3513.18 --> 3516.02] but the earth remains forever. -[3517.24 --> 3519.82] The sun rises and the sun sets, -[3520.18 --> 3522.50] and it hurries back to where it rises. -[3523.50 --> 3526.58] The wind blows to the south and turns to the north. -[3526.58 --> 3528.74] Round and round it goes, -[3529.34 --> 3531.48] ever returning on its course. -[3533.26 --> 3535.64] All streams flow into the sea, -[3535.98 --> 3537.50] yet the sea is never full. -[3538.50 --> 3540.70] To the place the streams come from, -[3541.32 --> 3543.28] there they return again. -[3545.30 --> 3547.62] All things are wearisome, -[3547.70 --> 3549.30] more than one can say. -[3549.30 --> 3552.18] The eye never has enough of seeing, -[3552.38 --> 3554.96] or the ear its fill of hearing. -[3555.34 --> 3557.46] What has been will be again. -[3558.24 --> 3560.98] What has been done will be done again. -[3561.76 --> 3564.34] There is nothing new under the sun. -[3565.94 --> 3568.26] Is there anything of which one can say, -[3568.42 --> 3570.36] look, this is something new. -[3571.04 --> 3572.96] It was here already long ago. -[3572.96 --> 3575.38] It was here before our time. -[3576.66 --> 3579.30] No one remembers the former generations, -[3579.78 --> 3582.08] and even those yet to come -[3582.08 --> 3585.70] will not be remembered by those who follow them. -[3587.00 --> 3588.42] This is the word of the Lord. -[3590.44 --> 3593.28] I wondered if that would be a little bit quieter this morning. -[3597.34 --> 3600.14] Because it's hard to say thanks be to God after reading that. -[3600.14 --> 3602.52] And just a warning, -[3603.52 --> 3605.94] the first part of this message -[3605.94 --> 3607.66] is going to be depressing. -[3610.74 --> 3612.86] But stick with me, please, -[3612.92 --> 3613.82] to the second part. -[3616.06 --> 3619.40] The first part looks for meaning -[3619.40 --> 3622.32] in a meaningless world. -[3623.84 --> 3627.20] And I have to admit and share with you, -[3627.34 --> 3628.64] hopefully for commiseration, -[3628.64 --> 3631.76] in preparation for this message, -[3632.04 --> 3633.18] I spent some time -[3633.18 --> 3636.00] in the dark corners of Reddit -[3636.00 --> 3638.26] this past week, -[3639.66 --> 3642.00] looking for conversations on meaning -[3642.00 --> 3644.14] and how people find meaning -[3644.14 --> 3646.52] and the struggles that they have. -[3646.66 --> 3647.90] And may I just say -[3647.90 --> 3650.84] that the armchair philosophers of this age -[3650.84 --> 3652.36] make me cry. -[3652.36 --> 3657.62] Like we live in a particular cultural moment -[3657.62 --> 3661.62] where we know that the traditional sort of moorings -[3661.62 --> 3663.24] of meaning and purpose, -[3663.36 --> 3666.12] those things that we have once grounded ourselves in, -[3666.38 --> 3667.46] have kind of faded away, -[3667.62 --> 3668.70] or they've been rejected, -[3669.10 --> 3670.36] they've been cast off -[3670.36 --> 3672.34] in the hopes of something, -[3673.22 --> 3674.38] I don't even want to say better, -[3674.80 --> 3675.64] but really other. -[3675.64 --> 3679.42] in a sense, -[3679.98 --> 3683.04] the philosophical structures -[3683.04 --> 3687.24] of someone like Friedrich Nietzsche, -[3688.28 --> 3692.02] 19th century German philosopher, -[3692.26 --> 3693.92] father of nihilism, -[3694.28 --> 3696.68] that has finally trickled down -[3696.68 --> 3699.38] to become the dominant worldview -[3699.38 --> 3701.18] of so many people floundering -[3701.18 --> 3702.76] in today's society, -[3703.10 --> 3704.62] especially in places like Reddit. -[3704.62 --> 3708.76] When we don't inherit a meaning -[3708.76 --> 3710.46] or receive a meaning, -[3710.72 --> 3712.90] we try to invent meanings -[3712.90 --> 3714.96] or we try to say -[3714.96 --> 3717.54] that meanings are meaningless, -[3718.18 --> 3719.22] that they're unnecessary. -[3720.42 --> 3723.16] We try to cast off all purpose. -[3724.20 --> 3727.70] Now, I want to lay this foundation well, -[3727.86 --> 3732.00] and so I'm going to read to you -[3732.00 --> 3734.48] two quotes from Nietzsche, -[3734.62 --> 3737.52] and then I'll balance that out -[3737.52 --> 3739.02] with some more modern articulations, -[3739.10 --> 3739.30] okay? -[3739.46 --> 3741.14] But I think this is helpful for us -[3741.14 --> 3743.40] to get the sense of it. -[3744.82 --> 3745.22] And so, -[3745.58 --> 3746.14] Nietzsche, -[3746.42 --> 3748.74] in his famous writing, -[3748.88 --> 3749.90] The Will to Power, -[3750.76 --> 3751.36] says, -[3751.36 --> 3755.30] A nihilist is a man who judges -[3755.30 --> 3758.12] of the world as it is -[3758.12 --> 3759.86] that it ought not to be, -[3760.94 --> 3764.18] and of the world as it ought to be -[3764.18 --> 3766.06] that it does not exist. -[3767.96 --> 3769.36] According to this view, -[3769.52 --> 3770.14] he goes on, -[3770.20 --> 3771.14] our existence, -[3771.40 --> 3771.74] action, -[3771.90 --> 3772.26] suffering, -[3772.42 --> 3772.62] willing, -[3772.82 --> 3773.16] feeling, -[3773.36 --> 3774.66] has no meaning. -[3774.66 --> 3776.66] then he says, -[3777.06 --> 3778.88] the pathos of in vain -[3778.88 --> 3782.28] is the nihilist's pathos. -[3783.68 --> 3785.54] Now, he doubles down on this idea -[3785.54 --> 3787.48] in The Twilight of Idols, -[3787.68 --> 3788.86] which is also called -[3788.86 --> 3790.64] of the Antichrist, -[3790.88 --> 3792.00] so you can probably anticipate -[3792.00 --> 3792.70] where this is going. -[3793.14 --> 3793.92] He says, -[3793.92 --> 3796.52] No one is accountable -[3796.52 --> 3798.06] for existing at all, -[3798.96 --> 3800.38] or for being constituted -[3800.38 --> 3801.30] as he is, -[3801.48 --> 3802.48] or for living -[3802.48 --> 3803.50] in the circumstances -[3803.50 --> 3804.22] and surroundings -[3804.22 --> 3805.20] in which he lives. -[3805.56 --> 3807.58] The fatality of his nature -[3807.58 --> 3809.24] cannot be disentangled -[3809.24 --> 3810.56] from the fatality -[3810.56 --> 3812.54] of all that which has been -[3812.54 --> 3813.44] and will be. -[3814.66 --> 3816.24] He is not the result -[3816.24 --> 3817.30] of special design, -[3817.94 --> 3818.34] a will, -[3818.76 --> 3819.34] a purpose. -[3819.78 --> 3820.84] He is not the subject -[3820.84 --> 3821.60] of an attempt -[3821.60 --> 3823.42] to attain an ideal of man -[3823.42 --> 3824.64] or an ideal of happiness -[3824.64 --> 3826.40] or an ideal of mortality. -[3826.96 --> 3827.98] It is absurd -[3827.98 --> 3829.66] to want to hand over -[3829.66 --> 3830.22] his nature -[3830.22 --> 3831.54] to some purpose or other. -[3832.80 --> 3834.70] We invented the concept -[3834.70 --> 3835.48] purpose. -[3836.86 --> 3837.98] In reality, -[3838.72 --> 3839.72] purpose is lacking. -[3844.16 --> 3845.52] Now, that would be -[3845.52 --> 3849.20] laughable -[3849.20 --> 3851.96] were it not so heartbreaking. -[3853.42 --> 3855.88] And the reality -[3855.88 --> 3857.00] that people -[3857.00 --> 3858.36] see life -[3858.36 --> 3859.62] and live life -[3859.62 --> 3861.04] in this way -[3861.04 --> 3862.12] is -[3862.12 --> 3864.34] pervasive -[3864.34 --> 3868.26] and heartbreaking. -[3870.64 --> 3871.48] Now, I said there were -[3871.48 --> 3872.34] some modern expressions -[3872.34 --> 3872.78] of that. -[3874.54 --> 3875.56] In good conscience, -[3875.66 --> 3876.76] I cannot recommend -[3876.76 --> 3877.36] this show, -[3877.86 --> 3878.62] but how many of you -[3878.62 --> 3879.16] are familiar with -[3879.16 --> 3879.84] Rick and Morty? -[3879.84 --> 3881.84] Some of you -[3881.84 --> 3882.24] who laughed -[3882.24 --> 3882.54] are like, -[3882.60 --> 3883.02] yep, I know -[3883.02 --> 3883.56] why you can't -[3883.56 --> 3884.32] recommend that show. -[3885.22 --> 3886.28] Rick and Morty. -[3887.38 --> 3887.82] Morty, -[3888.30 --> 3889.16] at one point, -[3889.26 --> 3889.64] says, -[3890.06 --> 3891.02] nobody exists -[3891.02 --> 3891.82] on purpose. -[3892.76 --> 3893.66] Nobody belongs -[3893.66 --> 3894.14] anywhere. -[3895.14 --> 3895.58] Everybody's -[3895.58 --> 3896.22] going to die. -[3896.76 --> 3897.60] Come watch TV. -[3900.90 --> 3902.42] In the same way, -[3903.34 --> 3903.96] Rust -[3903.96 --> 3904.90] Cole, -[3905.50 --> 3906.42] who is -[3906.42 --> 3906.86] played, -[3906.86 --> 3907.48] is a character -[3907.48 --> 3908.08] played by -[3908.08 --> 3909.10] Matthew McConaughey -[3909.10 --> 3909.86] in what I think -[3909.86 --> 3910.56] might be his -[3910.56 --> 3911.50] best role ever -[3911.50 --> 3913.12] in season one -[3913.12 --> 3913.62] of a show -[3913.62 --> 3914.78] called The True Detective. -[3916.48 --> 3917.46] And he says, -[3918.44 --> 3919.38] I think human -[3919.38 --> 3920.02] consciousness -[3920.02 --> 3921.08] is a tragic -[3921.08 --> 3921.70] misstep -[3921.70 --> 3922.44] in evolution. -[3925.32 --> 3926.12] This is the way -[3926.12 --> 3926.50] people are -[3926.50 --> 3927.36] functioning and living -[3927.36 --> 3928.10] and walking -[3928.10 --> 3928.86] and being -[3928.86 --> 3930.00] in the world. -[3930.10 --> 3931.66] And it doesn't -[3931.66 --> 3932.40] actually sound -[3932.40 --> 3933.22] all that different -[3933.22 --> 3934.84] than the teacher -[3934.84 --> 3935.80] in Ecclesiastes. -[3935.80 --> 3937.58] Right? -[3937.70 --> 3938.30] Meaningless. -[3938.48 --> 3939.02] Meaningless. -[3939.14 --> 3940.24] Everything is -[3940.24 --> 3941.02] meaningless. -[3942.46 --> 3943.00] Havel. -[3943.14 --> 3943.66] Havel. -[3943.78 --> 3944.40] Havelim. -[3944.66 --> 3945.78] Hakol Havel. -[3946.62 --> 3947.20] Vapid. -[3947.76 --> 3948.38] Vapid. -[3948.84 --> 3949.40] Vapor. -[3949.86 --> 3950.54] Everything -[3950.54 --> 3951.54] is -[3951.54 --> 3952.70] vapidity. -[3954.58 --> 3955.08] Enigma. -[3956.02 --> 3956.60] Enigma. -[3957.08 --> 3957.18] Right? -[3957.24 --> 3957.82] Elusive. -[3958.58 --> 3959.08] We talked -[3959.08 --> 3959.68] last week -[3959.68 --> 3960.46] of one of the -[3960.46 --> 3961.20] ways of defining -[3961.20 --> 3961.70] that is -[3961.70 --> 3962.10] just a -[3962.10 --> 3964.92] trying to -[3964.92 --> 3965.76] grasp onto -[3965.76 --> 3966.48] something that -[3966.48 --> 3967.00] just blows -[3967.00 --> 3967.46] away. -[3968.40 --> 3968.84] And then, -[3969.40 --> 3970.00] right, -[3971.00 --> 3971.78] everything is -[3971.78 --> 3972.14] meaningless. -[3972.28 --> 3972.72] It's utterly -[3972.72 --> 3973.60] meaningless. -[3973.78 --> 3974.64] Hakol Havel. -[3975.30 --> 3975.88] What do -[3975.88 --> 3976.80] people gain -[3976.80 --> 3977.48] from all -[3977.48 --> 3978.26] their labors -[3978.26 --> 3978.88] at which -[3978.88 --> 3979.64] they toil -[3979.64 --> 3981.52] under the sun? -[3983.28 --> 3983.86] Now, -[3984.26 --> 3984.60] if you have -[3984.60 --> 3985.04] a Bible -[3985.04 --> 3986.28] and you're -[3986.28 --> 3987.12] a person -[3987.12 --> 3987.48] who writes -[3987.48 --> 3987.98] in your Bibles, -[3988.22 --> 3988.76] maybe like -[3988.76 --> 3989.52] underline -[3989.52 --> 3989.94] that little -[3989.94 --> 3990.40] phrase -[3990.40 --> 3991.34] under the sun. -[3992.34 --> 3992.46] Right? -[3992.52 --> 3993.08] Highlight that -[3993.08 --> 3993.78] little phrase. -[3994.28 --> 3994.92] I'm going to -[3994.92 --> 3995.80] return to that -[3995.80 --> 3996.20] because it's -[3996.20 --> 3996.90] a key concept -[3996.90 --> 3997.62] for understanding -[3997.62 --> 3998.16] the teacher's -[3998.16 --> 3998.82] exploration. -[4000.14 --> 4000.30] So, -[4000.40 --> 4000.94] park that. -[4001.24 --> 4001.70] Hold on to -[4001.70 --> 4002.24] that idea. -[4003.34 --> 4004.24] But here, -[4004.46 --> 4005.08] the teacher -[4005.08 --> 4005.82] begins -[4005.82 --> 4007.20] what will be -[4007.20 --> 4007.80] an argument -[4007.80 --> 4008.46] that is going -[4008.46 --> 4009.08] to unfold -[4009.08 --> 4009.88] over the next -[4009.88 --> 4010.44] few verses -[4010.44 --> 4011.02] and over the -[4011.02 --> 4011.40] next few -[4011.40 --> 4011.90] chapters -[4011.90 --> 4013.26] showing -[4013.26 --> 4014.46] here in -[4014.46 --> 4015.12] this text -[4015.12 --> 4016.20] how it is -[4016.20 --> 4016.72] that the -[4016.72 --> 4017.90] earth itself -[4017.90 --> 4018.88] remains -[4018.88 --> 4019.94] exactly the -[4019.94 --> 4020.36] same -[4020.36 --> 4021.02] throughout -[4021.02 --> 4021.40] all the -[4021.40 --> 4021.78] ages. -[4022.64 --> 4022.86] Right? -[4022.92 --> 4023.52] In verse 4, -[4023.98 --> 4024.30] we read -[4024.30 --> 4024.82] generations -[4024.82 --> 4025.38] come -[4025.38 --> 4026.28] and generations -[4026.28 --> 4026.82] go -[4026.82 --> 4027.52] but the -[4027.52 --> 4027.82] earth -[4027.82 --> 4028.46] remains -[4028.46 --> 4028.94] forever. -[4030.00 --> 4030.26] And in -[4030.26 --> 4030.64] Hebrew, -[4030.88 --> 4031.12] actually, -[4031.20 --> 4031.68] the phrasing -[4031.68 --> 4032.04] there is -[4032.04 --> 4032.54] reversed. -[4033.12 --> 4033.40] It says -[4033.40 --> 4034.18] goes a -[4034.18 --> 4034.70] generation -[4034.70 --> 4035.60] and comes -[4035.60 --> 4036.32] a generation. -[4037.52 --> 4038.60] As if to -[4038.60 --> 4039.12] emphasize -[4039.12 --> 4039.98] and underscore -[4039.98 --> 4041.46] the fleeting -[4041.46 --> 4042.80] and replaceable -[4042.80 --> 4043.28] rhythms -[4043.28 --> 4044.18] of human -[4044.18 --> 4044.56] life. -[4044.88 --> 4045.68] One generation -[4045.68 --> 4046.54] fades away, -[4046.68 --> 4047.26] another takes -[4047.26 --> 4047.78] its place, -[4047.78 --> 4048.06] and the -[4048.06 --> 4048.32] cycle -[4048.32 --> 4048.94] continues -[4048.94 --> 4049.74] on and -[4049.74 --> 4050.24] on it -[4050.24 --> 4050.58] goes -[4050.58 --> 4050.96] without -[4050.96 --> 4051.54] pause -[4051.54 --> 4052.22] or without -[4052.22 --> 4052.82] any real -[4052.82 --> 4053.28] semblance -[4053.28 --> 4054.14] of permanence -[4054.14 --> 4055.10] or purpose. -[4056.14 --> 4056.56] This, -[4056.78 --> 4057.14] the teacher -[4057.14 --> 4057.62] says, -[4057.84 --> 4058.46] is why -[4058.46 --> 4059.08] the earth -[4059.08 --> 4059.72] remains -[4059.72 --> 4060.18] forever. -[4061.64 --> 4062.42] Because humanity -[4062.42 --> 4063.12] comes and -[4063.12 --> 4063.66] goes or -[4063.66 --> 4064.26] goes and -[4064.26 --> 4064.94] comes and -[4064.94 --> 4065.28] nothing -[4065.28 --> 4066.92] is gained. -[4067.94 --> 4068.28] There's no -[4068.28 --> 4069.06] lasting mark. -[4069.74 --> 4070.16] The earth -[4070.16 --> 4070.98] endures, -[4071.40 --> 4072.48] unmoved by -[4072.48 --> 4073.78] our striving, -[4074.12 --> 4074.80] all our -[4074.80 --> 4075.58] labors, -[4076.20 --> 4076.60] or as -[4076.60 --> 4076.84] Nietzsche -[4076.84 --> 4077.20] said, -[4077.28 --> 4077.94] the fatality -[4077.94 --> 4078.60] of his -[4078.60 --> 4079.10] nature -[4079.10 --> 4079.70] cannot be -[4079.70 --> 4080.36] disentangled -[4080.36 --> 4080.82] from the -[4080.82 --> 4081.40] fatality -[4081.40 --> 4082.40] of all -[4082.40 --> 4083.26] that which -[4083.26 --> 4084.00] has been -[4084.00 --> 4084.72] and will -[4084.72 --> 4085.28] be. -[4087.10 --> 4087.90] And then -[4087.90 --> 4088.58] in verse 5, -[4088.66 --> 4088.92] the teacher -[4088.92 --> 4089.42] looks up. -[4090.70 --> 4091.14] The sun -[4091.14 --> 4091.94] rises and -[4091.94 --> 4092.34] the sun -[4092.34 --> 4092.82] sets, -[4093.18 --> 4093.38] and it -[4093.38 --> 4094.16] hurries back -[4094.16 --> 4094.74] to where -[4094.74 --> 4095.22] it rises. -[4096.52 --> 4096.78] Again, -[4096.92 --> 4097.54] the word -[4097.54 --> 4098.28] in Hebrew -[4098.28 --> 4098.74] there that -[4098.74 --> 4099.32] is translated -[4099.32 --> 4099.82] hurries -[4099.82 --> 4100.98] literally means -[4100.98 --> 4101.70] pants, -[4102.12 --> 4102.48] like an -[4102.48 --> 4103.00] exhausted -[4103.00 --> 4103.38] runner, -[4104.74 --> 4105.40] struggling -[4105.40 --> 4105.92] to keep -[4105.92 --> 4106.36] pace, -[4106.84 --> 4107.64] and it's -[4107.64 --> 4108.26] an image -[4108.26 --> 4108.82] of this -[4108.82 --> 4110.16] drudging -[4110.16 --> 4111.74] repetition. -[4112.86 --> 4113.42] The sun -[4113.42 --> 4114.36] strains to -[4114.36 --> 4115.06] complete its -[4115.06 --> 4115.42] circuit, -[4115.66 --> 4116.28] only to -[4116.28 --> 4117.12] strain again -[4117.12 --> 4117.86] doing it -[4117.86 --> 4118.28] all over. -[4118.90 --> 4119.36] There's no -[4119.36 --> 4119.84] advancement, -[4120.18 --> 4120.58] there's no -[4120.58 --> 4121.04] profit, -[4121.32 --> 4121.78] there's no -[4121.78 --> 4122.98] true progress. -[4123.10 --> 4123.56] The sun -[4123.56 --> 4124.52] gains nothing -[4124.52 --> 4125.28] from all -[4125.28 --> 4125.70] of its -[4125.70 --> 4126.56] labors. -[4127.76 --> 4127.96] And then -[4127.96 --> 4128.54] in verse 6, -[4128.66 --> 4128.98] we keep -[4128.98 --> 4130.12] digging deep -[4130.12 --> 4130.78] into this -[4130.78 --> 4131.12] pit. -[4131.28 --> 4131.60] The teacher -[4131.60 --> 4132.20] turns to -[4132.20 --> 4132.66] the wind. -[4132.66 --> 4133.76] The wind -[4133.76 --> 4134.34] blows to -[4134.34 --> 4134.84] the south, -[4134.96 --> 4135.40] it turns -[4135.40 --> 4136.06] to the north, -[4136.16 --> 4136.62] round and -[4136.62 --> 4137.04] round it -[4137.04 --> 4137.34] goes, -[4137.44 --> 4138.16] ever returning -[4138.16 --> 4139.06] on its -[4139.06 --> 4139.68] course. -[4141.00 --> 4141.52] To our -[4141.52 --> 4141.98] eyes, -[4142.78 --> 4143.44] the wind -[4143.44 --> 4144.70] seems free -[4144.70 --> 4145.86] and unpredictable, -[4146.42 --> 4147.32] blowing wherever -[4147.32 --> 4148.34] it pleases, -[4148.64 --> 4149.08] and yet, -[4149.20 --> 4149.68] what the teacher -[4149.68 --> 4150.22] is saying, -[4150.52 --> 4151.30] it too is -[4151.30 --> 4151.94] trapped in -[4151.94 --> 4152.66] this endless -[4152.66 --> 4153.58] repetition. -[4154.12 --> 4154.56] The wind -[4154.56 --> 4155.48] too gains -[4155.48 --> 4156.76] nothing from -[4156.76 --> 4157.34] all its -[4157.34 --> 4158.32] moving about. -[4158.32 --> 4160.94] and then -[4160.94 --> 4161.42] dig even -[4161.42 --> 4161.76] deeper. -[4161.92 --> 4162.40] Verse 7, -[4162.50 --> 4162.88] he points -[4162.88 --> 4163.20] to the -[4163.20 --> 4163.60] waters. -[4164.68 --> 4165.48] All streams -[4165.48 --> 4166.28] flow into -[4166.28 --> 4166.78] the sea, -[4166.92 --> 4167.26] yet the -[4167.26 --> 4167.98] sea is -[4167.98 --> 4168.66] never -[4168.66 --> 4169.52] full. -[4170.92 --> 4171.32] Despite -[4171.32 --> 4172.20] this constant -[4172.20 --> 4172.88] motion, -[4173.42 --> 4173.92] the rivers -[4173.92 --> 4174.92] never achieve -[4174.92 --> 4175.62] their purpose, -[4175.80 --> 4176.50] the sea is -[4176.50 --> 4177.74] never satisfied, -[4177.96 --> 4178.52] all of that -[4178.52 --> 4178.96] activity, -[4179.18 --> 4179.68] all of that -[4179.68 --> 4180.28] energy, -[4180.48 --> 4181.06] all of that -[4181.06 --> 4181.52] movement, -[4182.38 --> 4183.28] no result. -[4185.82 --> 4186.42] Sidney -[4186.42 --> 4187.54] Gradonis is -[4187.54 --> 4189.44] a now -[4189.44 --> 4190.12] retired -[4190.12 --> 4190.96] professor -[4190.96 --> 4191.96] from Calvin -[4191.96 --> 4192.50] Seminary, -[4193.40 --> 4194.16] and has -[4194.16 --> 4194.64] written -[4194.64 --> 4196.04] a beautiful -[4196.04 --> 4196.54] book on -[4196.54 --> 4196.86] preaching -[4196.86 --> 4197.46] Christ from -[4197.46 --> 4198.22] Ecclesiastes, -[4198.44 --> 4198.92] and in that -[4198.92 --> 4199.36] book he -[4199.36 --> 4200.18] says that -[4200.18 --> 4201.72] all this -[4201.72 --> 4202.36] activity -[4202.36 --> 4203.46] shows no -[4203.46 --> 4204.18] results. -[4205.02 --> 4205.34] There is -[4205.34 --> 4205.92] no gain. -[4207.28 --> 4207.78] The teacher -[4207.78 --> 4208.60] has surveyed -[4208.60 --> 4209.10] the natural -[4209.10 --> 4209.74] world and -[4209.74 --> 4210.38] he finds -[4210.38 --> 4211.02] in it a -[4211.02 --> 4211.62] picture of -[4211.62 --> 4212.40] futility, -[4213.62 --> 4214.16] creation -[4214.16 --> 4214.80] itself, -[4215.08 --> 4215.86] mirroring -[4215.86 --> 4216.98] humanity's -[4216.98 --> 4217.52] restless -[4217.52 --> 4218.52] striving, -[4219.22 --> 4219.98] unceasing, -[4220.82 --> 4221.46] exhausting, -[4222.52 --> 4223.16] fruitless. -[4225.34 --> 4226.08] And the -[4226.08 --> 4226.76] teacher then -[4226.76 --> 4228.30] turns his -[4228.30 --> 4229.50] gaze from -[4229.50 --> 4231.46] nature to -[4231.46 --> 4231.96] humanity, -[4232.48 --> 4233.10] and his -[4233.10 --> 4233.68] conclusion is -[4233.68 --> 4234.06] the same. -[4234.94 --> 4235.58] There is no -[4235.58 --> 4235.92] gain. -[4237.42 --> 4238.06] Verse 9, -[4238.16 --> 4238.60] what has -[4238.60 --> 4239.14] been will -[4239.14 --> 4239.72] be again, -[4239.86 --> 4240.12] what has -[4240.12 --> 4240.62] been done -[4240.62 --> 4240.92] will be -[4240.92 --> 4241.54] done again. -[4241.70 --> 4242.08] There is -[4242.08 --> 4243.28] nothing new -[4243.28 --> 4243.94] under the -[4243.94 --> 4244.20] sun. -[4244.30 --> 4244.70] The human -[4244.70 --> 4245.46] story is -[4245.46 --> 4245.98] caught in -[4245.98 --> 4246.56] the same -[4246.56 --> 4247.24] weary -[4247.24 --> 4247.92] repetition. -[4248.42 --> 4248.96] We talk -[4248.96 --> 4249.62] endlessly, -[4249.96 --> 4250.50] we seek -[4250.50 --> 4251.32] endlessly, -[4251.60 --> 4252.52] we consume -[4252.52 --> 4253.40] endlessly, -[4253.66 --> 4254.32] we're desperate -[4254.32 --> 4255.48] to see and -[4255.48 --> 4256.16] to hear and -[4256.16 --> 4256.74] to know, -[4256.92 --> 4257.76] to be seen -[4257.76 --> 4258.36] and to be -[4258.36 --> 4258.86] heard and -[4258.86 --> 4259.58] to be known, -[4259.68 --> 4260.70] to experience -[4260.70 --> 4261.42] it all. -[4261.76 --> 4262.24] We chase -[4262.24 --> 4263.66] after novelty -[4263.66 --> 4264.60] and we call it -[4264.60 --> 4265.26] progress, -[4265.50 --> 4266.40] but the teacher -[4266.40 --> 4267.40] says there's -[4267.40 --> 4268.16] nothing new -[4268.16 --> 4269.42] under the -[4269.42 --> 4269.64] sun. -[4270.28 --> 4270.90] All our -[4270.90 --> 4271.68] striving is -[4271.68 --> 4272.28] this same -[4272.28 --> 4273.46] old story. -[4275.18 --> 4276.44] We live -[4276.44 --> 4278.02] in this -[4278.02 --> 4278.64] sort of -[4278.64 --> 4279.86] experiential -[4279.86 --> 4280.92] cultural -[4280.92 --> 4281.86] moment -[4281.86 --> 4283.78] where we've -[4283.78 --> 4284.46] built an -[4284.46 --> 4285.34] entire way -[4285.34 --> 4285.98] of being -[4285.98 --> 4286.36] in the -[4286.36 --> 4286.82] world and -[4286.82 --> 4287.36] of seeing -[4287.36 --> 4288.04] the world -[4288.04 --> 4289.22] around the -[4289.22 --> 4289.88] idea of -[4289.88 --> 4290.34] gain, -[4290.88 --> 4291.38] around the -[4291.38 --> 4292.08] belief that -[4292.08 --> 4292.88] meaning and -[4292.88 --> 4293.56] satisfaction -[4293.56 --> 4294.40] can be -[4294.40 --> 4294.94] found if -[4294.94 --> 4295.32] we just -[4295.32 --> 4296.12] achieve the -[4296.12 --> 4296.66] right thing, -[4296.76 --> 4297.12] if we just -[4297.12 --> 4298.42] experience the -[4298.42 --> 4299.02] right thing, -[4299.10 --> 4299.50] if we just -[4299.50 --> 4300.42] go to the -[4300.42 --> 4301.16] right place -[4301.16 --> 4302.32] or see the -[4302.32 --> 4303.04] right people, -[4303.28 --> 4303.76] we think if -[4303.76 --> 4304.34] I could just -[4304.34 --> 4304.86] make this -[4304.86 --> 4305.90] team or if -[4305.90 --> 4306.32] I could just -[4306.32 --> 4306.80] get this -[4306.80 --> 4307.30] job, -[4307.60 --> 4307.90] if I could -[4307.90 --> 4308.38] just have -[4308.38 --> 4309.16] that house -[4309.16 --> 4309.88] or that -[4309.88 --> 4310.52] boat or -[4310.52 --> 4311.36] that vacation -[4311.36 --> 4312.02] or that -[4312.02 --> 4313.10] video game, -[4313.40 --> 4313.98] honestly it -[4313.98 --> 4314.56] doesn't matter, -[4314.66 --> 4315.12] it's always -[4315.12 --> 4316.14] just something. -[4317.48 --> 4317.92] Then, -[4318.38 --> 4320.28] then I -[4320.28 --> 4320.96] can rest. -[4321.60 --> 4322.22] Then I -[4322.22 --> 4322.60] can have -[4322.60 --> 4323.02] peace. -[4323.46 --> 4323.96] Then I -[4323.96 --> 4324.44] can feel -[4324.44 --> 4325.16] like I've -[4325.16 --> 4325.54] made it. -[4325.66 --> 4326.18] Then I -[4326.18 --> 4326.60] can have -[4326.60 --> 4327.36] purpose. -[4330.42 --> 4331.56] But the -[4331.56 --> 4332.14] teacher stands -[4332.14 --> 4332.38] in the -[4332.38 --> 4332.76] middle of -[4332.76 --> 4333.14] all that -[4333.14 --> 4336.44] striving and -[4336.44 --> 4336.92] he whispers -[4336.92 --> 4337.70] the question -[4337.70 --> 4339.26] that we -[4339.26 --> 4339.84] try not to -[4339.84 --> 4340.54] ask ourselves. -[4342.50 --> 4343.22] What have -[4343.22 --> 4343.56] we really -[4343.56 --> 4345.50] gained in -[4345.50 --> 4345.94] all of that -[4345.94 --> 4346.32] striving? -[4347.68 --> 4348.46] What have I -[4348.46 --> 4349.30] really accomplished -[4349.30 --> 4350.28] in all of -[4350.28 --> 4350.86] that purposing? -[4350.86 --> 4350.96] you? -[4354.00 --> 4354.58] When I -[4354.58 --> 4354.86] was a -[4354.86 --> 4355.74] kid, I -[4355.74 --> 4357.12] read a -[4357.12 --> 4358.12] book in -[4358.12 --> 4358.76] high school -[4358.76 --> 4360.70] by Mordecai -[4360.70 --> 4361.20] Richler, -[4361.34 --> 4361.76] Canadian -[4361.76 --> 4362.70] author. -[4363.06 --> 4363.36] The book -[4363.36 --> 4363.66] is called -[4363.66 --> 4364.58] The Apprenticeship -[4364.58 --> 4365.04] of Duddy -[4365.04 --> 4365.58] Kravitz. -[4366.38 --> 4366.84] If you're -[4366.84 --> 4367.40] my age, -[4367.48 --> 4367.84] you maybe -[4367.84 --> 4368.32] read it. -[4368.38 --> 4368.64] I don't -[4368.64 --> 4368.98] think they -[4368.98 --> 4369.36] read that -[4369.36 --> 4369.70] book in -[4369.70 --> 4370.34] schools anymore. -[4371.00 --> 4371.70] Not sure -[4371.70 --> 4372.18] why, but -[4372.18 --> 4373.34] this book -[4373.34 --> 4375.20] painted this -[4375.20 --> 4376.34] vivid picture -[4376.34 --> 4377.00] of the -[4377.00 --> 4377.86] futility of -[4377.86 --> 4378.66] this pursuit -[4378.66 --> 4379.20] for me -[4379.20 --> 4379.98] that has -[4379.98 --> 4380.42] been with -[4380.42 --> 4380.76] me ever -[4380.76 --> 4381.08] since. -[4382.02 --> 4382.64] The young -[4382.64 --> 4383.80] Duddy grows -[4383.80 --> 4384.38] up in -[4384.38 --> 4384.98] Montreal, -[4385.38 --> 4385.86] and early -[4385.86 --> 4386.22] in his -[4386.22 --> 4386.90] life, he's -[4386.90 --> 4388.82] told that -[4388.82 --> 4389.38] a man -[4389.38 --> 4390.36] without land -[4390.36 --> 4391.16] is no -[4391.16 --> 4391.52] one. -[4393.02 --> 4393.46] And those -[4393.46 --> 4394.38] words take -[4394.38 --> 4395.54] root in the -[4395.54 --> 4396.06] core of his -[4396.06 --> 4396.74] being, and -[4396.74 --> 4397.34] they drive -[4397.34 --> 4398.44] everything he -[4398.44 --> 4398.84] does. -[4399.46 --> 4399.78] And from -[4399.78 --> 4400.20] that moment -[4400.20 --> 4400.80] on, he -[4400.80 --> 4401.92] becomes obsessed -[4401.92 --> 4402.92] with acquiring -[4402.92 --> 4404.90] land, convinced -[4404.90 --> 4405.72] that owning -[4405.72 --> 4406.70] property will -[4406.70 --> 4407.30] give him -[4407.30 --> 4408.80] identity and -[4408.80 --> 4409.70] worth and -[4409.70 --> 4410.06] meaning. -[4410.42 --> 4411.64] along the -[4411.64 --> 4412.24] way, he -[4412.24 --> 4412.74] meets a -[4412.74 --> 4413.40] woman named -[4413.40 --> 4413.76] Yvette -[4413.76 --> 4415.42] Durell, one -[4415.42 --> 4415.94] of the few -[4415.94 --> 4416.54] people in -[4416.54 --> 4417.18] that story -[4417.18 --> 4417.60] that it -[4417.60 --> 4418.30] seems that -[4418.30 --> 4418.90] he shares -[4418.90 --> 4419.58] a genuine -[4419.58 --> 4420.18] relationship -[4420.18 --> 4420.56] with. -[4421.78 --> 4422.46] But as -[4422.46 --> 4423.10] his ambition -[4423.10 --> 4424.04] grows throughout -[4424.04 --> 4424.70] the story, -[4425.52 --> 4425.84] and Duddy -[4425.84 --> 4426.90] begins to -[4426.90 --> 4427.60] use people -[4427.60 --> 4427.88] and to -[4427.88 --> 4428.50] take advantage -[4428.50 --> 4428.88] of them -[4428.88 --> 4429.22] and to -[4429.22 --> 4429.98] deceive -[4429.98 --> 4430.58] them, and -[4430.58 --> 4431.62] even stealing -[4431.62 --> 4432.20] from his -[4432.20 --> 4432.86] uncle, who -[4432.86 --> 4433.76] is another -[4433.76 --> 4434.22] one of the -[4434.22 --> 4434.74] people who -[4434.74 --> 4435.70] have provided -[4435.70 --> 4436.26] for him and -[4436.26 --> 4436.70] been with -[4436.70 --> 4437.66] him, just -[4437.66 --> 4438.20] so he can -[4438.20 --> 4438.60] get this -[4438.60 --> 4438.98] goal. -[4440.60 --> 4440.96] And in -[4440.96 --> 4443.12] the end, the -[4443.12 --> 4444.26] last scenes of -[4444.26 --> 4445.26] the book, he -[4445.26 --> 4447.60] has his land, and -[4447.60 --> 4448.40] it's beautiful and -[4448.40 --> 4448.92] sprawling. -[4449.02 --> 4449.36] He gets -[4449.36 --> 4450.46] everything he -[4450.46 --> 4452.50] wanted, but at a -[4452.50 --> 4453.22] terrible cost. -[4454.20 --> 4455.92] He loses Yvette, -[4456.70 --> 4457.66] he alienates all -[4457.66 --> 4458.66] his friends and -[4458.66 --> 4459.84] his family, and -[4459.84 --> 4461.40] he stands alone -[4461.40 --> 4463.06] on the property -[4463.06 --> 4464.26] that was supposed -[4464.26 --> 4464.94] to make him -[4464.94 --> 4465.40] someone. -[4467.68 --> 4468.36] So the -[4468.36 --> 4469.88] question can -[4469.88 --> 4470.36] be asked, -[4470.52 --> 4470.66] right? -[4470.76 --> 4471.78] Duddy Kravitz -[4471.78 --> 4472.66] begs the same -[4472.66 --> 4473.14] question. -[4473.46 --> 4473.88] What does a -[4473.88 --> 4474.62] man gain from -[4474.62 --> 4475.40] all his labor -[4475.40 --> 4476.00] at which he -[4476.00 --> 4476.58] toils under -[4476.58 --> 4477.02] the sun? -[4477.98 --> 4478.24] And the -[4478.24 --> 4479.08] answer is that -[4479.08 --> 4479.70] he gains -[4479.70 --> 4480.04] nothing. -[4480.16 --> 4480.66] Duddy gained -[4480.66 --> 4481.28] nothing. -[4481.62 --> 4482.12] All of his -[4482.12 --> 4482.88] striving left -[4482.88 --> 4483.52] him empty -[4483.52 --> 4484.58] and alone. -[4484.70 --> 4485.10] All of his -[4485.10 --> 4485.80] work and his -[4485.80 --> 4486.44] ambition and -[4486.44 --> 4486.92] his endless -[4486.92 --> 4487.62] pursuit of -[4487.62 --> 4488.66] profit, all -[4488.66 --> 4489.20] of it was -[4489.20 --> 4489.70] vanity. -[4490.24 --> 4490.80] All of it -[4490.80 --> 4493.16] was because -[4493.16 --> 4493.80] it disappeared. -[4494.26 --> 4494.94] the moment -[4494.94 --> 4495.44] he had it. -[4498.70 --> 4499.34] Now let's -[4499.34 --> 4501.08] go back to -[4501.08 --> 4501.54] that first -[4501.54 --> 4502.10] question. -[4503.46 --> 4503.80] What do -[4503.80 --> 4504.52] people gain -[4504.52 --> 4505.54] from all of -[4505.54 --> 4506.66] their labor, -[4507.02 --> 4507.76] all of their -[4507.76 --> 4509.10] toil, at -[4509.10 --> 4509.68] which they -[4509.68 --> 4510.94] toil, under -[4510.94 --> 4512.34] the sun? -[4513.56 --> 4514.24] Now that -[4514.24 --> 4515.20] phrase, under -[4515.20 --> 4516.76] the sun, is -[4516.76 --> 4517.54] crucial. -[4517.80 --> 4518.28] It is a -[4518.28 --> 4519.84] major qualifier -[4519.84 --> 4521.00] for the -[4521.00 --> 4521.56] teacher in -[4521.56 --> 4521.98] the book of -[4521.98 --> 4522.68] Ecclesiastes. -[4523.04 --> 4523.76] The teacher -[4523.76 --> 4525.14] is deliberately -[4525.14 --> 4526.84] describing human -[4526.84 --> 4528.44] life viewed -[4528.44 --> 4530.12] apart from -[4530.12 --> 4530.88] God. -[4532.12 --> 4533.14] The teacher -[4533.14 --> 4534.00] is setting up -[4534.00 --> 4534.64] his argument -[4534.64 --> 4535.52] from what we -[4535.52 --> 4536.04] would today -[4536.04 --> 4536.98] call a secular -[4536.98 --> 4537.60] perspective. -[4538.40 --> 4539.42] He's looking at -[4539.42 --> 4540.18] the world from -[4540.18 --> 4541.32] the ground up, -[4541.32 --> 4542.24] from human -[4542.24 --> 4543.16] experience and -[4543.16 --> 4543.70] observation, -[4543.70 --> 4545.30] without the lens -[4545.30 --> 4546.12] of divine -[4546.12 --> 4546.78] revelation. -[4547.24 --> 4547.54] And his -[4547.54 --> 4548.84] conclusion in -[4548.84 --> 4549.96] that frame is -[4549.96 --> 4550.40] that it's all -[4550.40 --> 4550.72] meaningless. -[4551.92 --> 4552.74] And it -[4552.74 --> 4553.82] stands as a -[4553.82 --> 4554.54] warning for -[4554.54 --> 4555.86] Israel and -[4555.86 --> 4556.56] for us, -[4556.86 --> 4557.48] that apart -[4557.48 --> 4558.24] from God, -[4558.40 --> 4559.12] we will not -[4559.12 --> 4559.94] gain anything -[4559.94 --> 4560.88] from all of -[4560.88 --> 4561.36] our toil. -[4561.70 --> 4562.84] Life lived -[4562.84 --> 4563.68] under the -[4563.68 --> 4565.12] sun is a -[4565.12 --> 4566.34] life without -[4566.34 --> 4567.32] reference to -[4567.32 --> 4567.92] the creator. -[4568.34 --> 4568.82] And when you -[4568.82 --> 4569.86] leave God out -[4569.86 --> 4570.60] of the picture, -[4571.00 --> 4571.96] everything else -[4571.96 --> 4572.74] loses its -[4572.74 --> 4573.04] meaning. -[4573.04 --> 4578.42] Now, let's -[4578.42 --> 4578.94] dig into the -[4578.94 --> 4580.66] context and -[4580.66 --> 4581.14] set up the -[4581.14 --> 4581.70] kind of cultural -[4581.70 --> 4582.56] moment just so -[4582.56 --> 4583.62] we can see just -[4583.62 --> 4584.24] how profound -[4584.24 --> 4584.76] this is. -[4584.84 --> 4585.34] Verse 1 -[4585.34 --> 4586.60] started by -[4586.60 --> 4586.88] saying, -[4587.02 --> 4587.66] the words of -[4587.66 --> 4588.20] the teacher, -[4588.36 --> 4589.30] son of David, -[4589.52 --> 4590.62] king in -[4590.62 --> 4591.18] Jerusalem. -[4592.84 --> 4593.18] Now, what's -[4593.18 --> 4593.78] up with this? -[4595.48 --> 4596.38] For a long -[4596.38 --> 4597.38] time, and we -[4597.38 --> 4598.22] already heard it -[4598.22 --> 4599.32] here this -[4599.32 --> 4600.46] morning, people -[4600.46 --> 4601.36] thought that -[4601.36 --> 4602.12] Ecclesiastes -[4602.12 --> 4603.14] was written by -[4603.14 --> 4603.58] Solomon. -[4604.92 --> 4605.72] Because when we -[4605.72 --> 4606.94] think of wise -[4606.94 --> 4608.06] people in the -[4608.06 --> 4608.78] Bible, we think -[4608.78 --> 4609.28] of Solomon, -[4609.72 --> 4610.68] who asked God -[4610.68 --> 4611.40] for wisdom, who -[4611.40 --> 4611.88] wrote the book -[4611.88 --> 4612.96] of Proverbs, and -[4612.96 --> 4613.72] this seems to be -[4613.72 --> 4614.94] an extension of -[4614.94 --> 4615.74] that kind of -[4615.74 --> 4616.40] writing. -[4617.16 --> 4617.68] And for sure, -[4617.86 --> 4618.36] this opening -[4618.36 --> 4620.10] line, the son -[4620.10 --> 4621.02] of David, king -[4621.02 --> 4621.90] in Jerusalem, -[4622.48 --> 4623.62] lends itself -[4623.62 --> 4624.64] naturally to that -[4624.64 --> 4625.28] understanding. -[4627.18 --> 4628.04] And I think on -[4628.04 --> 4628.48] purpose. -[4629.64 --> 4630.06] And like I said, -[4630.10 --> 4631.06] for a long time, -[4631.20 --> 4631.68] this was the -[4631.68 --> 4632.46] dominant assumption -[4632.46 --> 4634.18] that Solomon was -[4634.18 --> 4635.10] writing this. -[4635.44 --> 4636.90] Although, already -[4636.90 --> 4637.78] in the time of -[4637.78 --> 4639.16] Martin Luther, in -[4639.16 --> 4640.08] the 16th century, -[4640.22 --> 4640.86] there began to be -[4640.86 --> 4642.02] challenges to this -[4642.02 --> 4642.46] assumption. -[4643.54 --> 4644.46] Luther argues that -[4644.46 --> 4645.30] it was composed by -[4645.30 --> 4646.24] Sirach around the -[4646.24 --> 4646.64] time of the -[4646.64 --> 4647.52] Maccabees, which is -[4647.52 --> 4648.68] like 180 BC. -[4650.06 --> 4651.66] In the 17th century, -[4651.80 --> 4652.78] there's a Dutch -[4652.78 --> 4653.70] scholar named -[4653.70 --> 4654.72] Hugo Grotius. -[4655.12 --> 4656.22] He's the first to -[4656.22 --> 4658.00] make a case for a -[4658.00 --> 4659.24] later authorship based -[4659.24 --> 4660.02] on the Hebrew -[4660.02 --> 4661.44] structure of the -[4661.44 --> 4662.36] book of Ecclesiastes. -[4662.80 --> 4663.72] We'll get into this -[4663.72 --> 4664.76] in the podcast, so -[4664.76 --> 4665.22] we don't have to -[4665.22 --> 4666.06] waste our time here -[4666.06 --> 4666.46] for that. -[4667.52 --> 4668.90] Point being, it -[4668.90 --> 4670.50] seems more likely -[4670.50 --> 4672.24] that Ecclesiastes is -[4672.24 --> 4673.84] written sometime in -[4673.84 --> 4675.22] the late 3rd century, -[4675.72 --> 4678.04] around 230 BC or so, -[4678.38 --> 4680.40] but certainly between -[4680.40 --> 4681.56] the 3rd and the 5th -[4681.56 --> 4682.02] century. -[4683.12 --> 4684.12] Now, clearly, the -[4684.12 --> 4685.90] intent is to make the -[4685.90 --> 4686.88] reader think of -[4686.88 --> 4688.76] Solomon, right, and -[4688.76 --> 4690.10] to identify the -[4690.10 --> 4691.32] teacher with that -[4691.32 --> 4692.40] kind of person, -[4692.70 --> 4693.48] someone who's known -[4693.48 --> 4694.82] for wisdom and for -[4694.82 --> 4695.26] wealth. -[4696.22 --> 4697.00] And chapter 12, -[4697.10 --> 4697.72] where we started -[4697.72 --> 4699.20] last time, right, -[4699.38 --> 4701.28] also reads in a way -[4701.28 --> 4703.26] that seems to make -[4703.26 --> 4704.20] the conclusion that -[4704.20 --> 4705.72] this person was a -[4705.72 --> 4707.20] historical person, -[4707.26 --> 4708.20] that he was a real -[4708.20 --> 4709.98] teacher and not a -[4709.98 --> 4711.10] literary construct, -[4711.22 --> 4712.28] not a plot device -[4712.28 --> 4712.96] used to make a -[4712.96 --> 4713.26] point. -[4713.26 --> 4714.60] And so I think, -[4715.38 --> 4716.70] with many others, -[4716.84 --> 4717.90] that the point is to -[4717.90 --> 4719.64] understand that the -[4719.64 --> 4722.02] teacher is a person -[4722.02 --> 4723.96] of capability and -[4723.96 --> 4725.86] status and means, -[4726.24 --> 4727.74] and one who goes on -[4727.74 --> 4729.04] an intellectual journey -[4729.04 --> 4730.52] of discovery and -[4730.52 --> 4732.28] investigation, and who -[4732.28 --> 4733.68] has the means to do -[4733.68 --> 4734.04] so. -[4735.82 --> 4737.92] In short, in an age of -[4737.92 --> 4739.54] competing voices and of -[4739.54 --> 4740.96] attention vacuums and -[4740.96 --> 4743.02] time sinks, here is a -[4743.02 --> 4743.94] teacher worth listening -[4743.94 --> 4744.22] to. -[4746.40 --> 4747.62] Now, at the same time -[4747.62 --> 4749.46] as this, the Greek -[4749.46 --> 4750.90] empire is expanding, -[4751.52 --> 4752.86] and it expands to -[4752.86 --> 4754.98] include the region of -[4754.98 --> 4756.52] Israel and Judea. -[4757.28 --> 4759.40] And with that comes now -[4759.40 --> 4761.56] global opportunities for -[4761.56 --> 4763.26] trade and commerce. -[4764.18 --> 4765.52] With that, right into -[4765.52 --> 4767.98] this region moves -[4767.98 --> 4769.94] cultures and customs -[4769.94 --> 4771.96] from across the world. -[4773.26 --> 4774.56] Israel is at a -[4774.56 --> 4777.20] crossroads, both in -[4777.20 --> 4779.28] geography and in its -[4779.28 --> 4780.60] intellectual history. -[4781.02 --> 4781.14] Right? -[4781.16 --> 4782.62] In geography and -[4782.62 --> 4783.74] history, they're no -[4783.74 --> 4785.14] longer an agrarian -[4785.14 --> 4786.76] society, but they are -[4786.76 --> 4788.00] the gateway between -[4788.00 --> 4789.70] Africa and Asia, -[4789.84 --> 4790.56] between the Middle -[4790.56 --> 4791.90] East and the Greek -[4791.90 --> 4792.38] empire. -[4793.38 --> 4795.44] And all of these ideas -[4795.44 --> 4796.86] and people are moving -[4796.86 --> 4798.82] through this time and -[4798.82 --> 4799.74] this place. -[4800.80 --> 4802.32] And this is a huge -[4802.32 --> 4804.18] opportunity for -[4804.18 --> 4805.84] economic and cultural -[4805.84 --> 4806.88] and religious -[4806.88 --> 4807.62] diversity. -[4809.02 --> 4810.56] And so the people -[4810.56 --> 4811.70] have a choice to -[4811.70 --> 4811.98] make. -[4813.90 --> 4815.98] And the teacher of -[4815.98 --> 4817.76] Ecclesiastes is -[4817.76 --> 4819.22] pointing out what that -[4819.22 --> 4821.08] choice might look like. -[4821.08 --> 4824.22] in an age of competing -[4824.22 --> 4826.82] visions for life, in an -[4826.82 --> 4827.52] age when there's all -[4827.52 --> 4829.38] sorts of distractions to -[4829.38 --> 4830.66] numb the meaninglessness -[4830.66 --> 4833.44] of it all, here, he -[4833.44 --> 4834.92] says, is a message worth -[4834.92 --> 4835.64] knowing. -[4836.60 --> 4837.56] The teacher is -[4837.56 --> 4838.76] intentionally setting up a -[4838.76 --> 4840.56] contrast and is asking, -[4840.90 --> 4841.80] what's more compelling? -[4841.80 --> 4846.02] And I hope you can see it, -[4847.26 --> 4849.42] but we live in a moment of -[4849.42 --> 4850.48] precisely the same -[4850.48 --> 4852.92] contrasts, precisely the -[4852.92 --> 4854.00] same questions. -[4854.40 --> 4856.28] There are more voices now -[4856.28 --> 4857.54] competing for our -[4857.54 --> 4859.00] attention than ever -[4859.00 --> 4859.42] before. -[4860.14 --> 4862.12] There are more ideas about -[4862.12 --> 4863.64] what is good and about what -[4863.64 --> 4865.10] is evil than there has -[4865.10 --> 4866.52] ever been, and they're -[4866.52 --> 4867.80] being sourced from all -[4867.80 --> 4868.50] over the world. -[4868.50 --> 4870.44] There are currently more -[4870.44 --> 4872.88] distractions to numb us -[4872.88 --> 4874.88] from the impact of what -[4874.88 --> 4876.38] we are now calling choice -[4876.38 --> 4877.84] fatigue and executive -[4877.84 --> 4878.38] dysfunction. -[4881.26 --> 4882.44] What will you choose? -[4884.36 --> 4885.48] Or maybe you'll choose not -[4885.48 --> 4885.90] to choose. -[4886.90 --> 4888.26] How will you see the world? -[4889.42 --> 4890.24] Or maybe you'll choose to -[4890.24 --> 4891.04] bury your head in the sand. -[4891.96 --> 4893.02] Who will you listen to? -[4893.68 --> 4894.52] Or maybe you'll listen to -[4894.52 --> 4895.40] everyone and not make a -[4895.40 --> 4896.14] decision for yourself. -[4896.14 --> 4900.16] The teacher in this book -[4900.16 --> 4901.68] pulls no punches. -[4902.10 --> 4903.92] The Word of God pulls no -[4903.92 --> 4904.58] punches. -[4905.10 --> 4905.54] It says, -[4906.08 --> 4907.32] Life under the sun is -[4907.32 --> 4909.08] fleeting and elusive and -[4909.08 --> 4910.48] repetitive like chasing -[4910.48 --> 4913.22] vapor if you try it without -[4913.22 --> 4913.66] God. -[4914.94 --> 4916.08] That's the big idea. -[4916.72 --> 4918.26] Life without God is -[4918.26 --> 4920.48] fleeting, elusive and -[4920.48 --> 4922.42] repetitive like chasing -[4922.42 --> 4923.62] after a vapor. -[4923.72 --> 4924.88] Like I said, there's no -[4924.88 --> 4925.62] punches pulled. -[4926.14 --> 4928.62] It is really only God who -[4928.62 --> 4930.12] makes meaning out of the -[4930.12 --> 4931.54] moments of our life because -[4931.54 --> 4932.76] God gives life. -[4933.98 --> 4936.10] And so, of course it is -[4936.10 --> 4937.74] that life without God is -[4937.74 --> 4939.10] ultimately a life without -[4939.10 --> 4939.60] meaning. -[4942.60 --> 4943.24] Now, -[4943.24 --> 4953.82] I know that someone will want to -[4953.82 --> 4954.78] challenge this idea. -[4956.92 --> 4958.00] And honestly, good. -[4958.72 --> 4959.38] You should. -[4960.52 --> 4962.28] You should challenge this idea. -[4963.88 --> 4966.28] Ecclesiastes is an exercise of -[4966.28 --> 4969.22] challenging ideas, of testing their -[4969.22 --> 4971.50] veracity, of seeing if it fits. -[4971.50 --> 4972.60] And we can continue that -[4972.60 --> 4972.98] practice. -[4973.10 --> 4974.54] And we can be a space and a -[4974.54 --> 4975.88] community where those kinds of -[4975.88 --> 4977.32] hard questions are welcomed. -[4978.86 --> 4981.32] And in truth, right, in reality, -[4981.88 --> 4985.28] few of us live like Morty said was -[4985.28 --> 4985.58] true. -[4986.86 --> 4987.06] Right? -[4987.12 --> 4989.90] Few of us live or love like -[4989.90 --> 4991.46] Nietzsche was right. -[4991.46 --> 4991.82] Right? -[4991.82 --> 4995.70] Most people go about life making -[4995.70 --> 4997.38] meaning of the things that we do -[4997.38 --> 4998.44] and the life that we live. -[4998.78 --> 5001.66] We are meaning-making beings. -[5002.14 --> 5003.46] And in our brains and in our -[5003.46 --> 5005.28] hearts, we make things have -[5005.28 --> 5007.16] meaning so that we can feel like -[5007.16 --> 5008.00] they're worth doing. -[5008.00 --> 5013.14] The question that remains is, do -[5013.14 --> 5016.32] those meanings rise to the level of -[5016.32 --> 5019.24] universal or, more categorically, does -[5019.24 --> 5023.34] any meaning rise to the level of being -[5023.34 --> 5024.84] common to all? -[5026.74 --> 5028.94] That's where we need to press. -[5031.16 --> 5032.44] Let me illustrate this. -[5032.44 --> 5035.08] Think about a chair. -[5035.50 --> 5035.64] Right? -[5035.68 --> 5036.64] A chair like this. -[5037.26 --> 5037.42] Right? -[5037.76 --> 5038.94] Here are chairs. -[5039.06 --> 5040.40] If you look in the foyer, there are -[5040.40 --> 5042.56] people sitting in other chairs out -[5042.56 --> 5042.90] there. -[5043.34 --> 5045.44] If you go into my study around the -[5045.44 --> 5047.54] corner, there's another chair over -[5047.54 --> 5047.94] there. -[5048.04 --> 5050.00] But we can look at all three of those -[5050.00 --> 5051.40] chairs, even though they're different -[5051.40 --> 5053.32] and unique and particular, and say -[5053.32 --> 5053.96] chair. -[5055.38 --> 5055.90] Right? -[5055.90 --> 5058.98] There's something of an idea of chair -[5058.98 --> 5061.34] that transcends the particular -[5061.34 --> 5063.96] instances of chair. -[5065.36 --> 5067.54] Now, I get that that part makes sense -[5067.54 --> 5070.06] because a chair is a concrete thing. -[5070.36 --> 5071.90] It's something that we sit on and we -[5071.90 --> 5072.56] can touch it. -[5072.86 --> 5074.12] But what about something a little bit -[5074.12 --> 5074.94] more enigmatic? -[5075.94 --> 5076.06] Right? -[5076.08 --> 5078.36] What about meaning in suffering? -[5079.72 --> 5081.94] What about purposes in pain? -[5083.28 --> 5085.40] What about the famous question, what is -[5085.40 --> 5086.30] the meaning of life? -[5087.68 --> 5088.82] And if you want a more compelling -[5088.82 --> 5092.20] answer than 42, you have to look for -[5092.20 --> 5094.02] something that transcends life. -[5094.90 --> 5096.56] Something that can tie it all together. -[5097.48 --> 5099.16] Something that is over and above the -[5099.16 --> 5101.90] particular instances of our days and -[5101.90 --> 5102.52] our moments. -[5103.30 --> 5105.20] To have a meaningful answer to the -[5105.20 --> 5107.38] question, why is there something -[5107.38 --> 5109.96] rather than nothing, there has to be -[5109.96 --> 5113.18] something or someone over all the -[5113.18 --> 5114.12] other somethings. -[5115.40 --> 5120.24] Turns out, this is the only way to make -[5120.24 --> 5124.78] meaningful sense of everything and -[5124.78 --> 5127.60] therefore meaningful sense of anything. -[5127.60 --> 5132.76] This is precisely what Jesus means in -[5132.76 --> 5135.10] Matthew 16 when he says, -[5136.26 --> 5138.94] For whoever wants to save his life will -[5138.94 --> 5142.06] lose it, but whoever loses his life for me -[5142.06 --> 5143.16] will find it. -[5143.60 --> 5146.40] What good will it be for a man if he gains -[5146.40 --> 5150.06] the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? -[5150.06 --> 5154.40] Jesus is echoing the teacher's question. -[5156.22 --> 5158.56] You can gain everything under the sun. -[5158.88 --> 5161.56] Wealth, pleasure, status, even the whole -[5161.56 --> 5161.96] world. -[5162.22 --> 5165.92] But if it's apart from God, there's no gain -[5165.92 --> 5166.22] at all. -[5167.30 --> 5169.30] There's no goodness in it. -[5169.66 --> 5173.08] Gaining good things, but being without God -[5173.08 --> 5174.62] isn't good at all. -[5174.72 --> 5175.68] It's meaningless. -[5175.68 --> 5177.20] It's enigmatic. -[5177.34 --> 5180.00] It's a vapor that vanishes as soon as you try to -[5180.00 --> 5181.18] lay hold of it. -[5182.32 --> 5187.12] Any gain apart from God is no gain at all. -[5188.40 --> 5191.34] And the teacher is pressing us to see that our -[5191.34 --> 5194.72] striving for profit, that our endless attempts at -[5194.72 --> 5199.06] self-made meaning all collapse when they're cut off -[5199.06 --> 5199.76] from our Creator. -[5201.28 --> 5204.20] But the good news is, the good news, the gospel -[5204.20 --> 5207.98] is that it is only in God through Christ that we -[5207.98 --> 5211.78] find meaning and that our labor gains not just a -[5211.78 --> 5218.42] momentary purpose, but an eternal weight and purpose. -[5219.24 --> 5224.02] I love this line from 2 Corinthians 4, verse 17. -[5224.02 --> 5225.12] It says, -[5225.66 --> 5230.00] For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us -[5230.00 --> 5234.96] an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison. -[5236.66 --> 5240.84] Suffering has purpose because God is God. -[5241.14 --> 5242.90] And without God, there's no purpose. -[5243.06 --> 5243.88] There's only guesswork. -[5245.26 --> 5247.18] And that's the thing. -[5248.32 --> 5251.88] Jesus, living the life I should have lived and dying the -[5251.88 --> 5255.04] death that I deserve is more than just an example for my -[5255.04 --> 5255.32] life. -[5255.56 --> 5256.82] It is my life. -[5257.94 --> 5260.54] Jesus dying means that you are free. -[5260.94 --> 5264.94] And Jesus' resurrection means that you are raised to life. -[5265.16 --> 5266.20] Real life. -[5266.86 --> 5268.50] Meaningful life. -[5270.58 --> 5275.54] The Belgic Confession, which is a statement of faith in the -[5275.54 --> 5278.02] Reformed tradition that comes from the 16th century, in -[5278.02 --> 5280.76] article 12, says this beautifully. -[5280.76 --> 5286.88] It says that God has given all creatures their being, form, and -[5286.88 --> 5291.16] appearance, and their various functions for serving their -[5291.16 --> 5291.84] creator. -[5293.36 --> 5296.92] That's the answer to one of the oldest and deepest questions. -[5297.44 --> 5298.26] Why am I here? -[5299.46 --> 5304.94] The confession answer is for serving our God and creator. -[5306.36 --> 5308.74] The Westminster Shorter Catechism puts it the same way. -[5308.74 --> 5310.48] What is the chief end of man? -[5310.58 --> 5313.58] To glorify God and enjoy Him forever. -[5314.86 --> 5315.88] There it is. -[5316.98 --> 5322.20] The search for gain, for profit, for meaning ends here. -[5323.34 --> 5328.98] It lands here in worship and in serving God. -[5328.98 --> 5333.94] Under the sun, apart from God, all of our labor, all of our lives are -[5333.94 --> 5334.60] without meaning. -[5334.80 --> 5339.82] But, listen to how the Apostle Paul inverts this in 1 Corinthians 15. -[5339.98 --> 5340.22] He says, -[5340.64 --> 5345.52] Therefore, my beloved, be steadfast, immovable, and always excelling in -[5345.52 --> 5350.06] the work in the Lord, because you know that in the Lord your labor is not in -[5350.06 --> 5350.34] vain. -[5351.10 --> 5352.14] That's the contrast. -[5352.62 --> 5353.78] That's the difference, right? -[5353.78 --> 5356.02] Under the sun, all is vanity. -[5357.40 --> 5361.48] But in the Lord, your labor is not in vain. -[5362.32 --> 5364.30] That's the reversal of the gospel. -[5365.38 --> 5369.18] What Christ redeems, He gives back with purpose. -[5370.04 --> 5377.26] Your life, your work, your service, they matter eternally when they are done in Him and for -[5377.26 --> 5377.94] Him. -[5377.94 --> 5383.14] And so, if you're looking for meaning, if you're looking for purpose, if you're looking -[5383.14 --> 5387.22] for answers to the fundamental questions of life, look here. -[5388.04 --> 5389.34] Look to God's Word. -[5389.58 --> 5394.70] Look to the person of Jesus Christ in His life, in His death, and in His resurrection. -[5395.04 --> 5397.04] Look to the cross of God's grace. -[5398.08 --> 5401.92] The teacher said that apart from God, there is nothing new under the sun. -[5401.92 --> 5408.48] But God, through Jesus Christ, who lived and died for you, that says there is something -[5408.48 --> 5408.92] new. -[5409.84 --> 5409.96] Right? -[5410.04 --> 5411.96] Paul says this in 2 Corinthians again. -[5412.06 --> 5416.08] If anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation. -[5416.96 --> 5418.40] The old is passed away. -[5419.28 --> 5421.38] The new has come. -[5422.68 --> 5424.32] Under the sun, there's nothing new. -[5424.72 --> 5427.92] But in the sun, you are made new. -[5427.92 --> 5428.20] Right? -[5429.46 --> 5435.50] The futility of life lived under the sun is replaced by a joy of resurrection life in -[5435.50 --> 5436.04] the sun. -[5436.40 --> 5442.44] Our labors are not in vain because in Him, eternity breaks into our every day. -[5443.84 --> 5445.66] And that changes how we live. -[5445.78 --> 5447.02] It changes how we see. -[5447.48 --> 5450.88] And I pray, oh man, do I pray that this changes the corners of Reddit. -[5450.88 --> 5451.52] Right? -[5451.52 --> 5452.32] Right? -[5452.40 --> 5457.18] When days seem to drudge on, when one day bleeds into the next and everything feels like -[5457.18 --> 5464.74] endless repetition, remember Christ who gives purpose and joy even in the ordinary. -[5465.74 --> 5469.60] Who actually has promised to meet you in the ordinary. -[5469.60 --> 5478.14] And when the temptation rises in you to believe that you are in control, that gain and profit -[5478.14 --> 5485.22] and purpose depend on our effort, recall the teacher's words, apart from God, there is -[5485.22 --> 5486.92] no meaning or purpose. -[5487.08 --> 5492.36] But in Him, in Him, our joy is made complete. -[5492.36 --> 5498.92] And so may this truth settle deeply in us. -[5500.26 --> 5506.92] And under the sun, all is vanity, but in the sun, nothing is in vain. -[5507.58 --> 5513.02] Your life has meaning and purpose because of Jesus. -[5513.48 --> 5520.68] And so live your life for the purposes of Jesus. -[5521.50 --> 5521.76] Amen? -[5522.36 --> 5523.80] Let's pray together. -[5527.50 --> 5532.82] Lord Jesus, open our eyes to your purposes. -[5534.34 --> 5542.20] Move in us today that we might live our lives built on you and your word as the foundation. -[5543.42 --> 5548.10] May you, Lord Jesus, become for us the only cornerstone. -[5548.10 --> 5554.10] The firm foundation on which we can live and move. -[5554.24 --> 5557.02] In you, we have our being. -[5558.56 --> 5562.22] And so today, inspire our hearts. -[5562.22 --> 5572.46] Today, give us new Holy Spirit imaginations that we might see the very drudgeries of life, -[5572.56 --> 5580.68] the very repetitions of the ordinary, the very meaninglessness of these moments as actually, -[5581.68 --> 5583.82] only for you. -[5583.82 --> 5584.82] And in being for you. -[5584.82 --> 5587.00] And in being for you. -[5587.00 --> 5590.22] In living life before the face of God. -[5590.22 --> 5594.50] In living to worship and enjoy you. -[5594.50 --> 5598.30] In serving our God and creator. -[5598.30 --> 5606.72] May we know a purpose and a wholeness that transcends every moment. -[5606.72 --> 5610.34] that fills up every struggle. -[5611.66 --> 5617.26] And that encourages and holds every tear. -[5618.38 --> 5619.66] Every point of pain. -[5621.44 --> 5625.04] May we know that you are with us. -[5625.04 --> 5627.50] In Jesus' name we pray. -[5628.14 --> 5628.48] Amen. -[5628.48 --> 5628.58] Amen. -[5655.04 --> 5662.62] You're built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness. -[5664.80 --> 5669.10] I dare not trust the sweetest grace, -[5670.62 --> 5675.46] but holy trust in Jesus' name. -[5675.46 --> 5689.02] I'm still on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness. -[5691.02 --> 5701.86] I dare not trust the sweetest praise, but only trust in Jesus' name. -[5701.86 --> 5717.98] Christ alone, born as born, He made strong, Savior's love through the storm. -[5717.98 --> 5725.06] He is Lord, Lord of all. -[5725.06 --> 5740.06] When darkness seems to hide His face, I rest on His unchanging grace. -[5740.06 --> 5752.06] In every high and stormy day, my anchor holds within the veil. -[5752.06 --> 5758.06] My anchor holds within the veil. -[5759.06 --> 5767.06] Christ alone, born as born, He made strong. -[5767.06 --> 5779.06] In Savior's love through the storm, He is born for a long. -[5779.06 --> 5788.06] He shall come with trumpet sound. -[5788.06 --> 5794.06] O may I then in Him be found. -[5794.06 --> 5800.06] Dressed in His righteousness alone. -[5800.06 --> 5807.06] Father, stand before the Lord. -[5807.06 --> 5828.06] Christ alone, born as born, He made strong. -[5828.06 --> 5835.06] Christ alone, born as born, He made strong. -[5835.06 --> 5843.06] He made strong, Savior's love through the storm. -[5843.06 --> 5850.06] He is Lord, Lord of all. -[5850.06 --> 5857.06] Christ alone, born as born, He made strong. -[5857.06 --> 5860.06] Christ alone, born as born, He made strong. -[5860.06 --> 5871.06] In Savior's love through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[5871.06 --> 5885.06] Christ alone, born as born, He made strong. -[5885.06 --> 5892.06] As you go into this week, go as those who know your labors in the Lord are not in vain, -[5892.06 --> 5896.06] and so go to labor for the Lord. -[5896.06 --> 5905.06] Go as those who know God goes with you, and so receive His blessing for the journey of faith ahead. -[5905.06 --> 5907.06] God, go before you to lead you. -[5907.06 --> 5910.06] God, go behind you to protect you. -[5910.06 --> 5913.06] God, go beneath you to support you. -[5913.06 --> 5916.06] And God, go beside you to befriend you. -[5916.06 --> 5918.06] Do not be afraid. -[5918.06 --> 5920.06] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5920.06 --> 5927.06] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5927.06 --> 5928.06] Amen. -[5950.06 --> 5959.06] You are the only comfort in my life and in my death. -[5959.06 --> 5965.06] You have fully paid for all my sins and all my debt. -[5965.06 --> 5971.06] Even when I struggle to believe, -[5971.06 --> 5977.06] With compassion I do believe. -[5977.06 --> 6000.30] I am not my own, I belong, but in soul, in my life and in prayer, to you, Lord Christ, my Lord. -[6007.06 --> 6018.42] You've preserved my life in such a way that I love you, not a hair can pull from me unless you will with you. -[6018.42 --> 6029.26] Even when I'm lost in desperation, all things work together for my salvation. -[6029.26 --> 6053.04] I am not my own, I belong, but in soul, in my life and in prayer, to you, Lord Christ, my Lord. -[6059.26 --> 6089.24] I am not my own, I belong, but in soul, in my life and in prayer, to you, Lord Christ, my Lord. -[6089.24 --> 6099.24] Even when I can't see my way through, from now on to always with you. -[6099.24 --> 6123.48] I am not my own, I belong, but in soul, in my life and in prayer, to you, Lord Christ, my Lord. -[6123.48 --> 6146.48] I am not my own, I belong, but in prayer, to you, Lord Christ, my Lord. -[6146.48 --> 6169.48] I am not my own, I belong, but in soul, in my life and in prayer, to you, Lord Christ, my Lord. -[6176.48 --> 6178.48] I am not my own, I belong, but in soul, in my life and in prayer, to you, Lord Christ, my Lord. -[6178.48 --> 6182.48] I am not my own, I belong, but in soul, in my life and in prayer, to you, Lord Christ, my Lord. -[6182.48 --> 6188.48] I am not my own, I belong, but in soul, in my life and in prayer, to you, Lord Christ, my Lord. -[6188.48 --> 6192.48] I am not my own, I belong, but in soul, in my life and in prayer, to you, Lord Christ, my Lord. -[6192.48 --> 6222.46] I am not my own, I belong, but in soul, in my life and in prayer, to you, Lord Christ, my Lord. -[6222.46 --> 6252.44] I am not my own, I belong, but in soul, in my life and in prayer, to you, Lord Christ, my Lord. -[6252.46 --> 6257.46] I am not my own, I belong, but in soul, in my life and in prayer, to you, Lord Christ, my Lord. -[6282.46 --> 6284.46] Thank you. -[6312.46 --> 6342.44] Thank you. -[6342.46 --> 6372.44] Thank you. -[6372.46 --> 6402.44] Thank you. -[6402.46 --> 6432.44] Thank you. -[6432.46 --> 6462.44] Thank you. -[6462.46 --> 6492.44] Thank you. -[6492.46 --> 6522.44] Thank you. -[6522.46 --> 6552.44] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, September 21, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, September 21, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 41e22d1c501ae8564a1e1de8f9e7cfad4c485784..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, September 21, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,136 +0,0 @@ -• A ministry fair is happening at the back of the room -• Pastor Chris invites a worship group to Sunridge Gardens next Saturday -• The following Saturday (Oct 4) will be a worship conference with Brian Dirksen, Joshua Leventhal, and Caitlin Rose Leventhal -• There's a three-year read through the Bible group starting this Wednesday night -• The Mexico mission trip sign-up sheet is now live for March 14-24 -• A prayer gathering is being held this Thursday night at 7 p.m. -• The purpose of the gathering is for anyone to come together and pray -• Psalm 24 is read, asking who can climb the mountain of the Lord and stand in His holy place -• Only those with pure hands and hearts are worthy to receive God's blessing and have a right relationship with Him -• A song is sung about the joy and praise in heaven, including singing at ancient gates and ceaseless melodies. -• Bethlehem -• Glory -• Jesus' worthiness -• Bringing songs and prayers -• The one who is to come -• Praise and worship -• Worthy of every song and breath -• Living for Jesus -• No one like God, holy and worthy of praise -• Trust in God alone -• Stillness and patience in times of turmoil -• Giving troubles to Jesus -• Reading of Ephesians chapter 6 -• Importance of spiritual armor and standing firm in faith -• Prayer for God's provision and strength during times of need and struggle -• Declaration of trust in God as victor and savior -• Worship song with lyrics about praise, rejoicing, and declaring God's victory -• Personal testimony of devotion to the Redeemer -• Offerings are being collected for North American Indigenous Ministries (NAME) and Tim and Charity Johnson's ministry in Kamloops. -• A video is being shown to thank the congregation for its generosity in giving beyond its pledge to ministry shares. -• Various updates from the CRC church, including Reframe media ministry, Thrive staff consultations, Calvin Seminary, Canadian-specific justice ministries, and other denominational offices' activities. -• Invitation to kids to join at the front for a Kids Corner message before children's worship time. -• Brief interruption and attempted delivery of a Bible verse from Philippians. -• Distractions in life can make it hard to focus on what God wants -• Pastor Kevin's surprise visit was a way to illustrate distractions -• Importance of focusing on God's will despite life's distractions -• Prayer for the congregation, including blessings and requests for guidance and strength -• Prayers for specific individuals with health issues or challenges -• Gratitude for answers to prayer, such as Tessa's lymphoma being in remission -• Prayers for the new season of ministry and church members -• Request for guidance and peace in a dark world -• Discussion of Philippians 1:27-30, focusing on standing firm in faith and not being frightened by opposition -• Reference to a social media trend of emphasizing finding one's purpose and meaning -• Mention of an article discussing how the search for purpose can cause anxiety due to its weight and ubiquity -• Purpose anxiety: a growing problem due to declining traditional sources of meaning and purpose -• Decline of traditional sources of meaning, such as religion and family -• Increased pressure on individuals to find their own meaning and purpose in life -• Impact of technology, social media, and spiritual warfare on mental health and sense of identity -• Misplaced focus on external markers of success (likes, status, money) instead of internal fulfillment and connection with something eternal -• Longing for a deeper, more meaningful existence that goes beyond fleeting pleasures and distractions -• The call to live a life worthy of Christ's name and find meaning in striving with Him -• Feeling pressure from competing voices promising meaning and comfort -• The Philippians church faced similar cultural pressures and expectations -• Roman culture offered its own version of the good life, but not everyone was entitled to it -• Paul writes to the Philippians while in a Roman prison, encouraging them to stand firm in their faith -• The importance of living a life worthy of the gospel -• Paul's use of citizenship as a metaphor in Philippians -• The distinction between Roman citizenship and citizenship in the kingdom of heaven -• Three marks of living a life worthy of the gospel: standing firm in the one spirit, striving together for the faith of the gospel, and contending for the same victory -• Gospel-shaped citizenship means unity, courage, and perseverance in the face of pressure -• The gospel is advanced by a united church standing together, striving, and suffering, not by isolated believers chasing after private spirituality -• Philippians 4 shows that even leaders can be divided over how to live a life worthy of the gospel and contend for it in their community -• The risk of distraction and disagreement hijacking the gospel work is a recurring problem in church communities -• The speaker asks if conversations about church order and procedure have become distractions from the central mission of the gospel. -• The importance of being dogmatically committed to the content of the gospel and also doggedly committed to its agenda. -• The need for churches to see lives and neighborhoods transformed by Christ, rather than settling for secondary issues. -• Historical examples from Paul, Irenaeus, and John Owen highlighting the importance of holiness over head knowledge in Christian leadership. -• The call for leaders to live a life worthy of their calling and contend for the gospel, warning against division, hypocrisy, and mission drift. -• Unity in the church is not optional but essential for witness and credibility. -• The oneness of believers in Christ is necessary for the world to believe. -• Courage is required to stand firm in unity, even in the face of opposition or suffering. -• Paul's call to unity in Philippians 1-2 is not just about being united but doing so with courage. -• The example of Paul and Silas in Acts 16 shows how they maintained joy and courage in prison, leading others to faith. -• Joy as a defiant response to anxiety -• Suffering as a privilege for belonging to Jesus -• The cross and resurrection belong together with faith and suffering -• Early Christians understood suffering as a means of advancing the gospel -• Comfort, safety, and peace of mind are idols in modern Western culture -• The gospel offers meaning and joy in surrendering control and risking comfort for Christ's sake -• Courage in the face of opposition -• Unity and courage are not ends in themselves, but means to a greater purpose: advancing the gospel -• Paul's mission-oriented focus throughout his letter to the Philippians -• The importance of partnership in global mission -• Calling young people (in high school, university, college, or gap year) to consider their role in global mission -• Calling to be a pastor or missionary -• Declaring God's goodness and sharing the gospel with others -• The importance of being sent out to spread the gospel, both locally and globally -• The unity and courage of the church fueling its mission -• Overcoming internal distractions and fear to prioritize spreading the gospel -• Examples of churches and Christians throughout history who have successfully spread the gospel despite challenges -• Abandoned children and outsiders in the Philippian church -• Christian generosity and courage in the face of pagan empires or emperors -• Living a gospel lifestyle built on unity, courage, and sacrificial generosity -• Spiritual warfare and the offensive nature of the gospel to Greeks and Jews -• The importance of living a life worthy of the gospel and not proving one's worth to God -• Living in harmony with the gospel -• The heart of Philippians is not just a set of commands, but a mindset -• A Christian's heart should match the heart of Christ -• Christ's nature and role as servant is an example to follow -• Relationships between people should reflect the same mindset as Christ -• The likeness and being found in human appearance is humbled and obedient to death, even on a cross -• God exalted this person to the highest place and gave them the name above every other name -• Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father -• This person is the center of everything and their unity with others comes from humility and making us their body -• Courage comes from triumphing over sin, death, and the grave -• Mission flows from being exalted to the highest place and being Lord over every nation and name -• Living in unity and striving together makes life a signpost of God's kingdom -• The kingdom of God is within us -• Holiness and the gospel shape our unity, courage, and mission -• The watching world should see a picture of the kingdom that cannot be ignored -• Focus on Christ and the gospel in all we do -• Stand firm in the one spirit, striving together for the faith of the gospel -• The speaker prays for a deeper understanding of Christ's presence in their lives -• They acknowledge that they are not worthy of praise, but Christ is present through them -• Jesus is described as the redeemer, joy, righteousness, freedom, and peace -• The speaker expresses hope and reliance on Christ for their life and well-being -• They express gratitude for God's power and presence in times of need -• Overcoming sin and healing through Christ -• No fate or dread, knowing forgiveness is sure -• The price of pardon has been paid by Jesus -• Defeat of sin through Jesus' sacrifice -• Freedom and release from chains -• Longing to follow Jesus and be renewed daily -• Hope in Jesus alone for glory and salvation -• God's presence and protection in every situation -• Overcoming fear and anxiety through faith and trust in God -• The availability of God's mercy, goodness, and love for all people -• Salvation through Jesus Christ and the opportunity to live forever with Him -• Redemption from addictions and failures through surrender at the foot of the cross -• The defeat of the power of hell and the restoration of freedom through faith in God -• The love of God for the world -• Giving his son to save us -• Believing in Jesus leads to eternal life -• Defeating the power of hell -• Walking in freedom through God's love -• Bringing failures and addictions to Jesus \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, September 21, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, September 21, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index bc5c6dcdc33fb6f985f3d34ae8ed014acb420ca9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, September 21, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2630 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[569.98 --> 571.98] And here it goes. -[599.98 --> 629.96] Thank you. -[629.98 --> 659.96] Thank you. -[659.98 --> 689.96] Thank you. -[689.98 --> 719.96] Thank you. -[719.98 --> 749.96] Thank you. -[749.98 --> 779.96] Thank you. -[779.98 --> 809.96] Thank you. -[809.96 --> 816.40] Thank you. -[839.96 --> 841.76] that ministry fair seems to be winding down. -[841.94 --> 843.94] So just poke your head in that room -[843.94 --> 845.40] every once in a while and we'll see when we get started. -[845.70 --> 847.50] I'm going to invite out Pastor Chris now -[847.50 --> 849.56] and he's got a few more announcements for us today. -[869.96 --> 875.60] How about now? Yeah? -[876.50 --> 877.74] There? Are we getting it? -[877.74 --> 879.32] Wrong mic. -[879.68 --> 881.56] Oh, Peyton. -[885.30 --> 887.40] Try to get someone new back there. -[890.46 --> 891.62] Welcome to church -[891.62 --> 894.52] where everybody makes mistakes -[894.52 --> 896.06] and we laugh at them. -[897.12 --> 898.24] My name is Chris. -[898.38 --> 899.54] I'm one of the pastors here -[899.54 --> 901.78] and it's my privilege to welcome you -[901.78 --> 903.28] to worship this morning -[903.28 --> 905.64] especially as we celebrate the beginning -[905.64 --> 909.54] of our 2025-2026 ministry year. -[910.08 --> 912.32] There's a ministry fair happening at the back -[912.32 --> 913.22] after service. -[913.34 --> 914.86] Really encourage you to check that out -[914.86 --> 916.92] to find a place to connect -[916.92 --> 920.32] to sign up for different classes -[920.32 --> 922.34] and opportunities to serve. -[922.70 --> 924.50] That's all at the back, all afterwards -[924.50 --> 925.76] and so please check that out. -[926.18 --> 927.20] Stick around and connect. -[927.76 --> 929.18] We have a couple more announcements. -[929.54 --> 931.74] Next Saturday, -[932.28 --> 935.32] we are sending a group of worship leaders -[935.32 --> 936.88] to Sunridge Gardens, -[937.08 --> 939.26] which is a retirement living facility up the hill. -[939.48 --> 942.42] That's one week earlier than we normally do -[942.42 --> 944.28] because on October 4, -[944.28 --> 946.12] we're hosting a worship conference -[946.12 --> 948.28] here at Emmanuel -[948.28 --> 951.44] with Brian Dirksen, Joshua Leventhal, -[951.44 --> 952.98] and Caitlin Rose Leventhal. -[954.06 --> 955.30] And so we wanted to make sure -[955.30 --> 957.56] that we could still serve the Sunridge community -[957.56 --> 958.70] in a particular way -[958.70 --> 960.98] and also this community in our worship conference. -[961.10 --> 963.02] And so next Saturday at Sunridge, -[963.16 --> 965.26] please, everyone's invited to join there. -[965.60 --> 967.94] And then the following Saturday on the 4th -[967.94 --> 969.30] for the worship conference, -[969.30 --> 970.74] all of the details for that -[970.74 --> 972.00] can be found in the e-bulletin. -[972.16 --> 973.26] You can talk to me afterwards. -[974.64 --> 976.04] As well, this week, -[976.10 --> 977.86] as part of our kickoff and launch, -[977.96 --> 980.72] we have a three-year -[980.72 --> 983.24] read through the Bible group -[983.24 --> 985.98] that's starting this coming Wednesday night. -[986.68 --> 988.08] And so this Wednesday night -[988.08 --> 989.58] is our first meeting -[989.58 --> 991.20] and we're going to gather together -[991.20 --> 993.32] having already read the book of Genesis -[993.32 --> 995.44] and then we're going to discuss Genesis -[995.44 --> 997.32] and then we'll keep rolling through. -[997.44 --> 998.68] If you have any questions about that -[998.68 --> 1000.76] or you would like to sign up for the information, -[1001.26 --> 1002.74] again, you can grab me at the back. -[1002.98 --> 1004.84] I'll give you that information there. -[1005.38 --> 1006.24] And then lastly, -[1006.66 --> 1008.64] many of you have probably already seen -[1008.64 --> 1010.60] that the Mexico mission trip -[1010.60 --> 1012.44] sign-up sheet has gone out. -[1012.92 --> 1015.68] This is a trip, grade 10s, -[1016.20 --> 1017.82] to however old you want -[1017.82 --> 1019.94] that happens during March break. -[1020.02 --> 1021.60] So March 14 to 24, -[1021.88 --> 1023.08] that sign-up is now live -[1023.08 --> 1024.42] and Brandon is here. -[1024.42 --> 1026.04] Brandon's going to put his hand up even higher. -[1026.46 --> 1027.06] There he is. -[1027.60 --> 1028.42] If you have any questions, -[1028.50 --> 1030.48] you can grab him after our service. -[1031.68 --> 1032.74] I think that's it. -[1033.44 --> 1033.60] Yeah? -[1034.72 --> 1036.66] Look to Kevin for all the information. -[1037.60 --> 1038.54] Let's stand together -[1038.54 --> 1041.32] that we might be welcomed by God. -[1044.20 --> 1045.26] Louise Condos. -[1046.44 --> 1047.42] Thank you, Louise. -[1048.08 --> 1049.12] Thursday night, see? -[1049.38 --> 1049.94] Look to Kevin -[1049.94 --> 1051.66] and he sees other people at the back. -[1052.12 --> 1053.46] Nikki, even better. -[1053.46 --> 1054.64] All right. -[1054.78 --> 1055.50] Thursday night. -[1055.58 --> 1056.76] This Thursday night, -[1056.92 --> 1060.08] we are hosting a prayer gathering. -[1060.82 --> 1062.44] And so that's just for anyone -[1062.44 --> 1064.22] who wants to come together and pray. -[1064.62 --> 1066.10] We know that there are so many things -[1066.10 --> 1067.46] happening in our world -[1067.46 --> 1068.48] and in our hearts. -[1068.96 --> 1070.56] And our first response -[1070.56 --> 1071.48] should be to pray -[1071.48 --> 1072.64] when that is true. -[1072.76 --> 1073.74] And so Thursday night -[1073.74 --> 1075.40] at 7 p.m., -[1075.40 --> 1076.84] we're going to gather here -[1076.84 --> 1077.68] somewhere -[1077.68 --> 1079.80] for a time of prayer. -[1079.92 --> 1081.24] And so mark that on your calendars. -[1081.24 --> 1082.46] Please make a point of coming -[1082.46 --> 1083.32] for that. -[1083.68 --> 1084.34] Thank you, Louise. -[1085.82 --> 1087.06] Now I think we're ready to go. -[1087.14 --> 1088.26] Let's receive God's blessing -[1088.26 --> 1089.76] as we come together -[1089.76 --> 1090.24] and worship. -[1092.60 --> 1093.00] Grace, -[1094.08 --> 1094.48] mercy, -[1095.10 --> 1095.96] and peace to you -[1095.96 --> 1097.14] from God our Father, -[1097.58 --> 1098.64] from the Lord Jesus Christ, -[1098.74 --> 1099.18] His Son, -[1099.64 --> 1100.28] and our Savior, -[1100.84 --> 1102.06] through the presence and power -[1102.06 --> 1103.38] of the Holy Spirit. -[1104.32 --> 1104.60] Amen. -[1104.60 --> 1106.36] I'm going to invite you -[1106.36 --> 1107.34] to welcome those around you -[1107.34 --> 1108.32] into our shared worship -[1108.32 --> 1108.74] this morning. -[1110.96 --> 1111.22] Yeah. -[1111.62 --> 1112.14] Peace to Christ. -[1134.60 --> 1143.66] Psalm 24. -[1144.66 --> 1146.30] Who may climb the mountain -[1146.30 --> 1147.18] of the Lord? -[1147.82 --> 1149.04] Who may stand -[1149.04 --> 1150.44] in His holy place? -[1151.24 --> 1152.10] Only those -[1152.10 --> 1153.50] whose hands and hearts -[1153.50 --> 1154.12] are pure, -[1154.56 --> 1156.10] who do not worship idols -[1156.10 --> 1157.62] and never tell lies. -[1158.24 --> 1159.26] They will receive -[1159.26 --> 1160.16] the Lord's blessing -[1160.16 --> 1161.74] and have a right relationship -[1161.74 --> 1163.08] with God their Savior. -[1163.08 --> 1165.40] such people may seek you -[1165.40 --> 1167.38] and worship in your presence, -[1168.00 --> 1168.98] O God of Jacob. -[1189.74 --> 1191.40] There is singing -[1191.40 --> 1192.98] at the ancient -[1192.98 --> 1193.98] gates. -[1193.98 --> 1195.98] There is a melody -[1196.56 --> 1199.12] of ceaseless praise. -[1199.54 --> 1201.32] Age to age, -[1201.42 --> 1202.28] the sound -[1202.28 --> 1206.14] is only growing stronger. -[1209.14 --> 1210.68] There is a throne -[1210.68 --> 1214.00] beneath the name of names. -[1214.52 --> 1215.58] There is seated -[1215.58 --> 1218.20] on it one who raises, -[1218.20 --> 1220.20] and His kingdom -[1220.20 --> 1220.58] and His kingdom -[1220.58 --> 1222.20] now is here -[1222.20 --> 1225.20] and getting closer. -[1228.70 --> 1230.18] Praise Him -[1230.18 --> 1233.38] like we're there in glory. -[1233.38 --> 1235.52] Here and now -[1235.52 --> 1238.06] He's just as holy. -[1238.56 --> 1239.26] Jesus, -[1239.76 --> 1241.68] He's so worthy -[1241.68 --> 1243.66] of it all. -[1243.66 --> 1250.66] He exists in everlasting light. -[1250.66 --> 1251.66] He exists in everlasting light. -[1251.66 --> 1253.90] So on heaven's streets -[1253.90 --> 1256.24] there is no night. -[1256.66 --> 1260.44] Every tear is wiped away. -[1260.98 --> 1263.06] We'll know no sorrow. -[1263.06 --> 1264.58] 龙 mira -[1264.58 --> 1265.18] in everlasting light. -[1266.06 --> 1267.04] Lord, -[1267.12 --> 1267.84] Lord, -[1267.84 --> 1268.36] Jesus, -[1268.36 --> 1268.98] Dios, -[1269.10 --> 1271.20] the end here was -[1271.20 --> 1272.76] as faithful and -[1272.76 --> 1273.56] of Jesus. -[1273.56 --> 1274.26] The grace of His love -[1274.26 --> 1274.82] is awesome. -[1275.06 --> 1275.64] Facebook Earth -[1275.64 --> 1276.52] that we've been -[1276.52 --> 1276.90] a day -[1276.90 --> 1277.22] widing light. -[1277.22 --> 1278.18] Sometimes we're looking -[1278.18 --> 1279.42] to Bethlehem alive. -[1279.42 --> 1280.18] So day -[1280.18 --> 1280.92] is time to be -[1280.92 --> 1282.36] placed in theій -[1282.36 --> 1282.98] otherant. -[1283.02 --> 1283.64] At M compliment, -[1283.64 --> 1284.72] you can take -[1284.72 --> 1285.50] the Manaan -[1285.50 --> 1286.18] policy. -[1286.18 --> 1299.46] him like we're there in glory here and now he's just as holy jesus he's so worthy of it all -[1304.50 --> 1313.14] bring your song he loves to hear it bring him every prayer so clear -[1313.14 --> 1318.26] jesus he's so worthy of it all -[1322.82 --> 1330.82] the one who was the one who is the one who is to come -[1332.50 --> 1340.42] the one who was the one who is the one who is to come -[1340.42 --> 1350.10] the one who was the one who is the one who is to come -[1350.10 --> 1359.78] the one who was the one who is the one who is to come -[1359.78 --> 1375.46] praise him like we're there in glory here and now he's just as holy jesus he's so worthy of it all -[1375.46 --> 1381.14] bring your song -[1381.14 --> 1387.14] he loves to hear it bring him every prayer so clear -[1387.14 --> 1392.82] jesus he's so worthy of it all -[1392.82 --> 1404.82] the one who was the one who is the one who is to come -[1404.82 --> 1414.50] the one who is the one who is to come -[1414.50 --> 1422.50] the one who was the one who is the one who is to come -[1422.50 --> 1436.18] the one who is the one who is the one who is to come -[1436.18 --> 1451.54] the one who is the one who is to come -[1451.54 --> 1454.10] the one who is to come -[1454.10 --> 1468.10] worthy of every song we could ever see -[1471.78 --> 1476.10] worthy of all the praise we could ever bring -[1476.10 --> 1490.10] worthy of every breath we could ever breathe we live for you -[1496.02 --> 1500.10] jesus the name above every other name -[1500.10 --> 1508.10] jesus the only one who could ever see -[1512.10 --> 1518.10] worthy of every breath we could ever breathe we live for you -[1520.98 --> 1522.10] we live for you -[1522.10 --> 1540.10] holy there is no one like you there is none beside you open up my eyes in wonder -[1540.10 --> 1566.10] and show me who you are and fill me with your heart and lead me in your love to those around me -[1570.10 --> 1580.10] jesus the name above every other name -[1582.10 --> 1588.10] jesus the only one who could ever see -[1588.10 --> 1596.10] jesus the name above every breath we could ever breathe we live for you -[1596.10 --> 1598.10] we live for you -[1598.10 --> 1602.10] we live for you -[1602.10 --> 1606.10] holy there is no one like you there is none beside you open up my eyes in wonder -[1606.10 --> 1616.10] jesus the name above every breath we could ever see -[1616.10 --> 1634.10] and show me who you are and fill me with your heart and lead me in your love to those around me -[1634.10 --> 1636.10] jesus the name above every breath we could ever see -[1636.10 --> 1638.10] amen -[1638.10 --> 1642.10] jesus the name above every breath we can ever see -[1642.10 --> 1648.10] and pray -[1648.10 --> 1650.10] amen -[1650.10 --> 1652.10] jesus the name above every breath is -[1652.10 --> 1673.54] I will build my life upon your love. It is a firm foundation. I will put my trust in you alone. -[1673.54 --> 1694.46] And I will not be shaken. I will build my life upon your love. It is a firm foundation. -[1694.46 --> 1709.36] I will put my trust in you alone. And I will not be shaken. -[1710.20 --> 1719.20] Holy, there is no one like you. There is none beside you. -[1719.20 --> 1732.34] Open up my eyes in wonder. Show me who you are and fill me with your heart. -[1732.68 --> 1740.10] And lead me in your love to those around me. -[1743.10 --> 1744.88] You may have a seat. -[1749.20 --> 1755.84] There are many examples in this world of life being uncertain. -[1756.84 --> 1762.62] Even again in these last few weeks, we have been reminded of how fleeting life is. -[1763.16 --> 1766.88] How there is trouble and hardship, war and violence. -[1767.40 --> 1770.78] And they continue to surround us and permeate our lives. -[1770.78 --> 1775.46] Exodus 14 verse 14 says, -[1776.34 --> 1780.72] The Lord will fight for you. You need only to be still. -[1781.76 --> 1784.70] Psalm 37 verse 7 says, -[1785.50 --> 1790.00] Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him. -[1791.00 --> 1793.06] Mark 4 verse 39 says, -[1793.06 --> 1815.94] Let's take a moment now this morning to give our turmoil both in this world and in our personal lives to Jesus. -[1815.94 --> 1816.38] Matthew 24 says, -[1816.38 --> 1816.62] no care. -[1842.44 --> 1842.98] It's okay. -[1842.98 --> 1869.36] Still, my soul, be still, and do not fear. -[1869.36 --> 1880.36] Though winds of change may rage tomorrow, God is at your side. -[1881.50 --> 1889.54] No longer dread the fires of unexpected sorrow. -[1889.54 --> 1903.04] God, you are my God, and I will trust in you and not be shaken. -[1903.04 --> 1920.04] Lord of peace, renew my steadfast spirit within me to rest in you alone. -[1920.04 --> 1943.28] Still, my soul, be still, and do not be moved by lesser lights and fleeting shadows. -[1943.28 --> 1957.48] Hold on to his ways with shield of faith against temptations, flaming arrows. -[1957.98 --> 1970.52] God, you are my God, and I will trust in you and not be shaken. -[1970.52 --> 1987.40] Lord of peace, renew a steadfast spirit within me to rest in you alone. -[1987.40 --> 2009.40] Still, my soul, be still, do not forsake the truth you learned in the beginning. -[2009.40 --> 2023.40] Wait upon the Lord, and hope will rise as stars appear when day is dimming. -[2024.40 --> 2037.06] God, you are my God, and I will trust in you and not be shaken. -[2037.06 --> 2051.96] Lord of peace, renew a steadfast spirit within me to rest in you. -[2051.96 --> 2064.16] God, you are my God, and I will trust in you and not be shaken. -[2064.16 --> 2080.16] Lord of peace, renew a steadfast spirit within me to rest in you alone. -[2080.16 --> 2088.96] Please stand and hear these words of assurance this morning. -[2089.76 --> 2091.82] From Ephesians chapter 6. -[2091.82 --> 2096.28] Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. -[2097.14 --> 2101.72] Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. -[2102.30 --> 2108.74] For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, -[2109.26 --> 2115.60] against the powers of this dark world, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. -[2115.60 --> 2123.70] Therefore, put on the full armor of God so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, -[2124.14 --> 2126.92] and after you have done everything, to stand. -[2127.92 --> 2131.80] Stand firm then with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, -[2132.20 --> 2139.62] with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. -[2139.62 --> 2148.78] In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. -[2149.52 --> 2155.50] Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. -[2155.50 --> 2180.22] This is my prayer in the desert, when all that's within me feels dry. -[2180.22 --> 2185.04] This is my prayer in my hunger and need. -[2185.30 --> 2188.04] My God is the God who provides. -[2189.66 --> 2192.40] This is my prayer in the fire. -[2193.62 --> 2196.78] In weakness or trial or pain. -[2198.06 --> 2201.80] There is a faith to the more worth than gold. -[2202.12 --> 2205.02] So refine me, Lord, through the pain. -[2205.50 --> 2207.50] I will bring praise. -[2207.64 --> 2209.46] I will bring praise. -[2209.46 --> 2213.02] No weapon form against me shall remain. -[2213.84 --> 2215.50] I will rejoice. -[2216.04 --> 2217.34] I will declare. -[2218.18 --> 2221.84] God is my victory and He is here. -[2229.10 --> 2232.42] This is my prayer in the battle. -[2233.42 --> 2236.60] When triumph is still on its way. -[2236.60 --> 2238.92] I am a conqueror. -[2238.92 --> 2241.50] I am a conqueror and co-heir with Christ. -[2241.50 --> 2244.92] So fire on His promise I'll stand. -[2244.92 --> 2247.00] I will bring praise. -[2247.20 --> 2249.06] I will bring praise. -[2249.06 --> 2252.92] No weapon form against me shall remain. -[2252.98 --> 2255.12] I will rejoice. -[2255.12 --> 2256.92] I will declare. -[2256.92 --> 2261.30] God is my victory and He is here. -[2261.36 --> 2264.78] This is my prayer in the battle. -[2264.78 --> 2265.78] You will bring praise. -[2265.78 --> 2267.66] Lord, for thejoies will have been great. -[2268.62 --> 2269.58] Let'swan terms and heal. -[2270.30 --> 2271.68] Everything for mercy and He is here. -[2271.68 --> 2273.78] Very camp to endure. -[2273.78 --> 2284.20] All of my life in every season, -[2284.26 --> 2285.30] You are still God. -[2285.30 --> 2298.30] you are still God I have a reason to say I have a reason to worship -[2298.30 --> 2302.30] Oh -[2315.30 --> 2331.30] I have a reason to say I have a reason to worship -[2331.30 --> 2335.30] I will bring praise -[2335.30 --> 2340.30] I will -[2340.30 --> 2350.30] I will rejoice I will declare God is my victory and I will bring praise I will bring praise -[2350.30 --> 2354.30] no one who has been formed against me shall remain -[2354.30 --> 2363.30] I will rejoice I will declare God is my victory and He is here -[2370.30 --> 2387.30] this is my prayer in the harvest when favor and providence flow -[2387.30 --> 2399.30] I know I feel to be emptied again the seed I received I will sow -[2399.30 --> 2416.30] I will glory in my Redeemer who is proud of me -[2416.30 --> 2433.30] I will glory in my Redeemer whose priceless blood has ransomed me -[2433.30 --> 2443.30] mine was the seed that drove the bitter nail and hung him on that judgment tree -[2443.30 --> 2452.30] I will glory in my Redeemer who crushed the power of sin and death -[2452.30 --> 2459.30] my holy Savior before the holy John -[2459.30 --> 2463.30] the man who is my righteous man -[2463.30 --> 2467.30] the man who is my righteous man -[2467.30 --> 2477.30] I will glory in my Redeemer -[2477.30 --> 2480.30] I will glory in my Redeemer -[2480.30 --> 2485.30] my life be God my love be old -[2485.30 --> 2490.30] I have no longings for another -[2490.30 --> 2493.30] I am satisfied in Him alone -[2493.30 --> 2500.30] I will glory in my Redeemer -[2500.30 --> 2505.30] His faithfulness my standing place -[2505.30 --> 2511.30] Lord, falls on my knee and rush upon me -[2511.30 --> 2515.30] My feet are firm held by His grace -[2515.30 --> 2520.30] My feet are firm held by His grace -[2520.30 --> 2529.30] My feet are firm held by His grace -[2529.30 --> 2537.30] I will glory in my Redeemer who carries me on eagles' ways -[2537.30 --> 2542.30] He crowns my arm with love and high best -[2542.30 --> 2559.20] and -[2562.20 --> 2572.24] of -[2572.24 --> 2582.56] By the glory and my Redeemer, who waits for me at gates of gold. -[2582.56 --> 2588.56] And when He calls me, it will be paradise. -[2589.90 --> 2594.02] His face forever to behold. -[2595.10 --> 2599.34] His face forever to behold. -[2602.24 --> 2606.00] You may have a seat. -[2624.94 --> 2625.86] Good morning. -[2626.42 --> 2627.40] My name is Pearl. -[2627.56 --> 2629.40] I'm one of the deacons here at Langley Emanuel. -[2629.40 --> 2632.28] And we continue worship by having an offering. -[2633.14 --> 2635.18] Today's offerings are first for the budget. -[2635.80 --> 2638.58] And on the screen, you can see ways to give. -[2638.58 --> 2644.44] If you give via the bags that are passed around, then do mark your offering as such. -[2644.86 --> 2647.60] You can use the envelopes that are in the chairs in front of you. -[2648.50 --> 2654.68] And our other offering today is for NAME, which stands for North American Indigenous Ministries. -[2654.68 --> 2664.40] And our offerings specifically go to Tim and Charity Johnson, who serve in the Kamloops area with the Kamloops Indigenous bands. -[2665.34 --> 2668.56] NAME has other places where they work at. -[2668.56 --> 2678.18] They have places in Alberta, in Saskatchewan, and also in Washington State and Montana and in New Mexico. -[2679.24 --> 2695.38] And their mission is to spread the gospel of Jesus to Indigenous people through cultural activities and through one-to-one relationships and also through reconciliation. -[2695.38 --> 2701.28] So as the bags are being passed around today, we also have a special treat. -[2701.50 --> 2704.14] We have a thank you video that will be shown. -[2704.82 --> 2709.92] You might remember that this church, we had a surplus in our budget. -[2709.92 --> 2722.18] And we agreed as a congregation to give some of that surplus to ministry shares, which meant that we actually gave beyond our pledge to ministry shares. -[2722.62 --> 2733.50] And the head office in Burlington, the Canadian division of the CRC Church, was just so grateful, so thankful, so surprised that they have sent us this thank you video. -[2734.12 --> 2737.76] So do enjoy this video as the bags are being passed around. -[2737.76 --> 2738.92] And do give generously. -[2739.42 --> 2739.82] Thank you. -[2739.92 --> 2769.90] Thank you. -[2769.90 --> 2770.38] Thank you. -[2770.48 --> 2771.90] Thank you. -[2771.90 --> 2772.16] Thank you. -[2772.40 --> 2772.90] Thank you. -[2773.00 --> 2773.40] Thank you. -[2773.60 --> 2774.90] Thank you. -[2775.38 --> 2775.90] Thank you. -[2776.42 --> 2776.80] Thank you. -[2776.80 --> 2790.68] Thank you, everybody. -[2791.16 --> 2793.72] Thank you. -[2793.72 --> 2795.36] coming year. -[2795.36 --> 2801.28] Reframe is a media ministry of the CRC that is proclaiming the gospel, discipling believers, -[2801.28 --> 2805.72] and strengthening the church worldwide in 10 major languages. -[2805.72 --> 2810.32] One of those is in Burkina Faso, where the French language ministry is reaching new people -[2810.32 --> 2816.38] for Christ and the church is growing faster than the ministry can even seem to keep up. -[2816.38 --> 2821.78] Thrive is helping churches like yours with encouragement, connections, and tools. -[2821.78 --> 2827.74] This year Thrive staff have provided over 350 unique consultations to churches, helping -[2827.74 --> 2833.14] them to address needs and opportunities within their own local ministry contexts. -[2833.14 --> 2838.90] Calvin Seminary is offering some new creative approaches to raising up new leaders, including -[2838.90 --> 2844.42] Empower, a creative mentor-based method for obtaining a ministry degree happening right -[2844.42 --> 2846.24] here in Canada. -[2846.24 --> 2851.34] We also have Canadian-specific justice ministries, such as our Indigenous ministry which has -[2851.34 --> 2857.00] continued the journey toward reconciliation with over 500 people across Canada through -[2857.00 --> 2858.80] Hearts Exchanged. -[2858.80 --> 2864.06] Our intercultural ministry has walked alongside 13 churches last year as they seek to be healthy -[2864.06 --> 2867.18] multicultural expressions of the gospel. -[2867.18 --> 2872.42] The Center for Public Dialogue continues to equip churches to engage as faithful participants -[2872.42 --> 2874.82] in our national community. -[2874.82 --> 2880.08] And as always, the denominational offices are ready to answer your questions about church -[2880.08 --> 2884.38] benefit plans, pension funds, insurance, and plan giving. -[2884.38 --> 2886.66] All of those interesting things. -[2886.66 --> 2892.58] The One Click, One Call team answered over 12,900 of your phone calls this year. -[2892.58 --> 2898.06] Thank you for your financial support that helps your church be poised to share the gospel and -[2898.06 --> 2904.72] for the ways that we collaborate together for Kingdom Impact. -[2904.72 --> 2919.66] Wonderful update from the office in Burlington. -[2920.26 --> 2925.12] At this time, I'm going to invite the kids, I think anywhere from age three up to grade four, -[2925.12 --> 2927.90] but really kids of any age, you're welcome to join me at the front. -[2928.38 --> 2932.20] We have a little Kids Corner message before we go to children's worship time. -[2932.20 --> 2939.20] Come on up. -[2939.20 --> 2942.34] It's been a few weeks since I've had a chance to hang out with you guys. -[2942.34 --> 2944.34] How's everyone doing? -[2944.34 --> 2945.34] Good? -[2945.34 --> 2946.34] Good. -[2946.34 --> 2947.96] You seem a little distri... -[2947.96 --> 2948.96] Oh, hi, Kev. -[2948.96 --> 2949.46] Hi. -[2949.46 --> 2950.46] Oh, you're just checking something? -[2950.46 --> 2951.46] Yeah, just looking at... -[2951.46 --> 2952.46] Okay, yeah. -[2952.46 --> 2953.46] Oh, anyway, you guys... -[2953.46 --> 2954.46] Okay. -[2954.46 --> 2955.46] We'll just keep focusing here. -[2955.46 --> 2957.46] So, we have a tricky message to... -[2957.46 --> 2958.46] Oh, hey. -[2958.46 --> 2959.46] Sorry. -[2959.46 --> 2960.46] Sorry, you have a nice shirt. -[2960.46 --> 2961.46] Oh, thanks. -[2961.46 --> 2962.46] Sorry, you have a nice shirt. -[2962.46 --> 2963.46] Sorry, you have a nice shirt. -[2963.46 --> 2964.46] Oh, thanks. -[2964.46 --> 2965.46] Yeah? -[2965.46 --> 2966.46] Okay. -[2966.46 --> 2970.46] Anyway, we're going to talk about a special message today. -[2970.46 --> 2974.46] I feel like we're not focused here, guys. -[2974.46 --> 2976.46] Oh, okay. -[2976.46 --> 2977.46] Oof. -[2977.46 --> 2978.46] Okay. -[2978.46 --> 2987.90] Today, we're going to try and talk about a Bible verse from the book of Philippians. -[2987.90 --> 2989.66] What just happened there with Kev? -[2989.66 --> 2993.00] Were we paying attention with Pastor Kevin? -[2993.00 --> 2996.78] Is it hard sometimes to, like, really focus on stuff? -[2996.78 --> 3000.66] Sometimes there's so many distractions that pull us upside. -[3000.66 --> 3002.14] He was sneaking up on me. -[3002.14 --> 3003.14] What? -[3003.14 --> 3006.88] I think sometimes there's lots of things in our lives that sneak up on us when we're -[3006.88 --> 3009.00] supposed to be focusing on other things. -[3009.00 --> 3014.52] So we're going to talk about a verse in Philippians today on how to help us focus on -[3014.52 --> 3019.06] the things God wants us to focus on and try and try and not be so distracted and try to -[3019.06 --> 3021.86] help one another focus on those things. -[3021.86 --> 3023.52] So don't worry. -[3023.52 --> 3025.34] Pastor Kevin's really not that crazy. -[3025.34 --> 3027.40] He was just put up to it by me. -[3027.40 --> 3028.40] So, okay. -[3028.40 --> 3032.06] We're going to talk more about that and talk about ways to help live through some of those -[3032.06 --> 3033.46] distractions and support one another. -[3033.46 --> 3038.84] But before that, we're going to bless the congregation as they stay and also talk about -[3038.84 --> 3040.70] a verse in the book of Philippians. -[3040.70 --> 3042.92] And we will also do the same in children's worship time. -[3042.92 --> 3046.88] So let's stand together with the congregation and we'll bless them and I think they will -[3046.88 --> 3047.94] bless us in return. -[3047.94 --> 3048.94] Ready? -[3048.94 --> 3053.94] The Lord be with you. -[3053.94 --> 3055.74] And also with you. -[3070.70 --> 3082.94] Hi. -[3082.94 --> 3084.94] My name is Paul. -[3084.94 --> 3088.94] I'm privileged to be an elder here at this church. -[3088.94 --> 3098.64] And once I get everything set up here, it's my privilege to lead us in family prayer. -[3099.18 --> 3102.66] Before that, a couple of notes from council. -[3104.26 --> 3108.88] We're very grateful for all the people that came out this week to the special general meeting -[3108.88 --> 3117.42] and for the overwhelming positive response to the motion that was put forward to extend -[3117.42 --> 3125.88] the call to Kevin and move forward his process there to becoming a full ordained pastor in -[3125.88 --> 3126.52] the Word of God. -[3126.52 --> 3136.38] As well as yesterday, a number of us from council, both elders and deacons, were able to go to -[3136.38 --> 3144.28] a leadership conference in Abbotsford at New Life Church where we learned a lot of things -[3144.28 --> 3148.68] and were inspired for this new season coming forward. -[3151.46 --> 3153.12] Let's go to our Father in Heaven. -[3156.52 --> 3168.16] Father in Heaven, we come to you this morning here in this place as your people to seek you. -[3169.10 --> 3173.34] And because of your spirit that you sent down to be in us. -[3175.54 --> 3181.26] And because of that spirit, we see that you made the earth on which we stand. -[3181.26 --> 3187.26] You made the air which we breathe and the beauty in the sky we stand beneath. -[3187.90 --> 3191.52] And how awesome and vast your creation is. -[3192.96 --> 3198.60] How immeasurable is the delicate balance and the detail that we see. -[3198.60 --> 3205.98] And yet, you chase after us like a shepherd watches his sheep. -[3207.48 --> 3212.10] You know us by name and pour out grace through your redeeming love. -[3212.10 --> 3218.94] We sang this morning about your throne beneath the name of names. -[3219.72 --> 3220.98] That's where you're seated. -[3222.40 --> 3228.34] Your kingdom is here and the time is getting closer to when you will be revealed to all nations. -[3228.34 --> 3234.62] It's in that knowledge and it's in knowing you. -[3235.92 --> 3240.56] And knowing that you are in control of all things that we can have comfort. -[3242.32 --> 3243.20] Help us. -[3244.58 --> 3251.38] Help us to put on the full armor of God so that we can take our stand against the devil's schemes. -[3251.38 --> 3259.18] For our struggle isn't against the flesh and blood, but against rulers and against authorities, -[3259.40 --> 3266.08] against powers of this dark world, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. -[3268.84 --> 3274.02] We can stand here in this place knowing that you are here with us. -[3274.02 --> 3284.32] Do a great work in each of us by your spirit to make us each day more and more like your son, Jesus Christ. -[3287.28 --> 3292.14] Thank you for your mercy and grace, for always being there when we need you. -[3293.90 --> 3297.18] We all come here with individual and personal needs. -[3298.12 --> 3301.10] Needs that we may not have shared with anyone else. -[3301.10 --> 3315.82] We thank you for your faithfulness and guidance during our special meeting this week, this past week. -[3316.04 --> 3325.64] And we thank you for leading our church family to approve the motion of calling Kevin as a pastor of the word. -[3325.64 --> 3333.52] Lord, we pray you will bless Kevin with wisdom and humility and strength as he moves forward. -[3336.58 --> 3339.94] We pray for John and the medical attention he's getting. -[3341.40 --> 3345.08] It can be a long process working to receive the right treatments. -[3345.86 --> 3348.70] And we pray for strength and patience for John and Greta. -[3349.64 --> 3352.28] And return to health for John. -[3352.28 --> 3358.94] We pray once again for Tessa, Jerry's daughter and Eneka's sister. -[3360.40 --> 3363.78] We thank you for the good news that her lymphoma is in remission. -[3364.84 --> 3369.04] But now she's found out she will have to go for surgery for a spot on her colon. -[3370.80 --> 3374.46] Please give Tessa and the family patience and peace during this time. -[3374.46 --> 3381.58] We also pray for Judy, who needs surgery to remove kidney stones. -[3381.74 --> 3385.64] We pray that that will go well and she will recover quickly. -[3388.30 --> 3392.48] We also pray for Ellen and the treatment that she receives for her knees. -[3393.44 --> 3395.44] We pray that it will be successful. -[3395.44 --> 3402.22] We thank you for the blessing of marriage. -[3403.16 --> 3406.60] For Michaela and Caden, the daughter of Harry and Robin. -[3407.02 --> 3410.50] Lord, we ask that you will bless them in their new life together. -[3414.68 --> 3417.18] Father, we also pray for this world. -[3417.18 --> 3447.16] We pray for peace. -[3447.18 --> 3450.78] Help us to see that you are in control. -[3451.40 --> 3457.18] And help us to be a light in this dark world so that your kingdom will come soon. -[3459.70 --> 3463.06] As we begin a new season of ministry at our church, -[3463.76 --> 3471.06] we ask for your prayers over every ministry, every volunteer and leader. -[3471.06 --> 3476.44] We pray that you would guide each step. -[3476.44 --> 3481.62] Strengthen those who serve and open hearts for those who will participate. -[3482.82 --> 3491.14] May all we do bring glory to your name and build up the body of Christ in love and unity. -[3491.14 --> 3501.80] We ask that you will now bless the word we are about to hear and pray that you will pour out your spirit on Pastor Chris as he preaches your word here today. -[3503.46 --> 3506.54] Father, we pray that our eyes would be fixed on Jesus. -[3506.54 --> 3513.02] We pray that by your spirit, you will bring it into our hearts to believe and to trust in you. -[3514.24 --> 3519.44] And for all these things, we pray not because we are worthy, but in Jesus' name alone. -[3520.20 --> 3520.54] Amen. -[3536.54 --> 3545.76] As we begin this ministry year and season together, -[3546.34 --> 3553.10] as we reflect really on all the things that God has done among us and is doing among us, -[3553.10 --> 3556.64] as we anticipate what God might do in our midst, -[3556.64 --> 3559.96] together and prayerfully, -[3560.32 --> 3568.04] we wondered about how it is that we might step with confidence and conviction into that future. -[3568.48 --> 3572.90] And to help us with that and to see that a little bit more clearly, -[3572.90 --> 3575.48] we're going to read from Philippians 1. -[3576.66 --> 3580.86] I'm going to read from 27 to 30, -[3581.06 --> 3585.20] although we'll focus on a couple of the verses in there in particular. -[3586.64 --> 3590.28] You may have also noted, as Mike was up here talking, -[3590.68 --> 3593.08] the Children's Worship Time kids are doing the same thing. -[3593.60 --> 3595.48] And so for this ministry season, -[3596.04 --> 3598.66] Children's Worship Time coordinators and teachers -[3598.66 --> 3604.32] are going to be matching in their class and in their work what we talk about here. -[3605.16 --> 3608.12] And so families, no matter how old you are, -[3608.20 --> 3610.90] you can take these conversations home with you -[3610.90 --> 3613.84] and over lunch or dinner or whatever throughout the week, -[3613.84 --> 3618.08] ask how it is that they were learning the same things that you are, -[3618.16 --> 3619.68] that we are when we stay here. -[3619.96 --> 3623.34] And so I really encourage that and thank you to the Children's Worship Time people -[3623.34 --> 3625.70] who have taken that on and made that a priority. -[3626.54 --> 3629.90] Let's read together from Philippians 1. -[3630.44 --> 3631.78] I'll start at verse 27. -[3631.78 --> 3640.00] Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. -[3641.06 --> 3646.18] Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, -[3646.54 --> 3650.50] I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, -[3651.36 --> 3654.88] striving together as one for the faith of the gospel, -[3655.38 --> 3658.78] without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. -[3658.78 --> 3664.18] This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, -[3664.66 --> 3668.52] but that you will be saved, and that by God. -[3669.46 --> 3673.54] For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ, -[3673.64 --> 3678.76] not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him. -[3679.90 --> 3683.16] Since you are going through the same struggles you saw I had, -[3683.42 --> 3686.66] and now hear that I still have. -[3686.66 --> 3688.74] This is the word of the Lord. -[3693.38 --> 3697.64] I don't know if this happens in your world as well, -[3697.74 --> 3704.00] but a few months ago, kind of in the end of July season of life, -[3704.34 --> 3705.90] on social media, -[3706.50 --> 3714.40] the same sort of messaging starts to circulate and come through everywhere. -[3714.40 --> 3718.28] And I remember, I don't know if it was on Instagram or YouTube or wherever it was, -[3718.36 --> 3719.72] but there was a clip, -[3720.28 --> 3726.56] or there was a video showing a bunch of clips of high school commencement addresses. -[3728.34 --> 3733.52] And every valedictorian or class historian or whomever, -[3733.96 --> 3736.80] just one after the other, it was clipped together -[3736.80 --> 3738.82] with words like, -[3739.02 --> 3740.06] do what you love. -[3741.02 --> 3742.48] Don't settle for the mediocre. -[3743.12 --> 3744.12] Make your own meaning. -[3744.62 --> 3745.84] Find your own way. -[3746.12 --> 3747.68] And then over and over and over again, -[3747.82 --> 3750.64] find your purpose. -[3752.16 --> 3753.70] Find your purpose. -[3753.70 --> 3759.78] As I was reflecting in preparation for this week, -[3760.68 --> 3765.64] I came across an article that was written in August this past year -[3765.64 --> 3767.48] by Alina Tuggan. -[3767.62 --> 3769.52] It was written for the Associated Press. -[3770.16 --> 3771.34] And the article was called, -[3771.84 --> 3776.56] Why the Search for Meaning Can Cause Purpose Anxiety. -[3776.56 --> 3783.16] In that article, she writes that the word purpose has become so weighty, -[3783.54 --> 3785.04] so ubiquitous, -[3785.24 --> 3789.22] from valedictorian addresses all the way through to our social media feeds, -[3789.52 --> 3794.70] that it's become so weighty that it can be actually a source of angst. -[3796.44 --> 3797.46] And in her article, -[3797.62 --> 3803.22] she went on to talk about how psychologists actually have developed a term for this angst. -[3803.68 --> 3805.66] It's called purpose anxiety. -[3807.52 --> 3810.10] Part of the problem that was noted in the article -[3810.10 --> 3815.88] is that a lot of the places that we have historically gone to find meaning -[3815.88 --> 3817.20] are falling away. -[3818.84 --> 3821.34] It used to be the case that for many people, -[3821.52 --> 3825.94] religion and religious connection was a source of meaning. -[3826.32 --> 3830.46] But in the Western world, anyway, those numbers are dropping. -[3831.76 --> 3836.04] It used to be the case that people would traditionally find meaning -[3836.04 --> 3841.94] or purpose in ensuring that their children had a better life than they did. -[3843.08 --> 3845.48] But two competing realities here. -[3845.58 --> 3848.66] One, people are having fewer and fewer children -[3848.66 --> 3850.68] or not having any children at all. -[3850.90 --> 3855.64] And those children, for the first time in like 200 years, -[3856.06 --> 3858.50] this generation that's coming up doesn't actually believe -[3858.50 --> 3861.44] that they will have a better life than their parents did. -[3862.04 --> 3865.28] That changes the dynamic. -[3865.28 --> 3867.32] Right? -[3867.36 --> 3871.80] And as these traditional sources of purpose and meaning wane, -[3872.20 --> 3876.54] anxiety rises among a population that's trying to figure it out. -[3877.98 --> 3881.30] One psychologist quoted in the article says, -[3881.30 --> 3885.96] Now we're stuck trying to do the harder thing, -[3886.34 --> 3888.18] which is one by one, -[3888.52 --> 3890.58] figure out everything in the universe -[3890.58 --> 3892.18] and how we fit in it. -[3893.78 --> 3894.32] Right? -[3894.36 --> 3896.90] That's the pressure people are living in. -[3897.48 --> 3898.72] We have to figure it out. -[3898.84 --> 3900.42] One by one by one, -[3900.42 --> 3903.56] every man, woman and other for themselves. -[3904.44 --> 3905.70] We have to figure out everything. -[3906.88 --> 3911.16] And we have to decide how it is that we uniquely fit in this place. -[3912.38 --> 3914.50] And really, I don't know if you feel it, -[3914.66 --> 3915.28] I feel it, -[3915.50 --> 3920.56] the deck is stacked against us. -[3921.20 --> 3923.68] Even language is stacked against us at this point. -[3924.78 --> 3926.28] And I'm sure you feel it. -[3926.66 --> 3926.80] Right? -[3926.86 --> 3929.32] Whether it's through social media algorithms -[3929.32 --> 3931.86] deepening the doom spiral scrolling. -[3931.86 --> 3933.68] Right? -[3933.72 --> 3935.80] Whether it's the powers and principalities -[3935.80 --> 3937.72] or the state of the world. -[3937.86 --> 3940.66] Whether it's the unseen spiritual warfare -[3940.66 --> 3942.46] that we are in the midst of. -[3942.54 --> 3944.28] And I'm going to be candid and bold with you. -[3944.50 --> 3946.52] It is actually all three of those things -[3946.52 --> 3947.74] happening at the same time. -[3949.08 --> 3949.52] Right? -[3949.60 --> 3952.26] There's algorithms that are dictating what you see. -[3952.78 --> 3954.38] There are powers and principalities -[3954.38 --> 3956.50] and states of the world that are against us. -[3956.58 --> 3958.42] And there is a spiritual war -[3958.42 --> 3959.72] that is going on for your hearts, -[3960.12 --> 3961.30] minds, and imaginations. -[3961.86 --> 3964.76] And in the midst of that, -[3964.86 --> 3966.62] we keep hearing the same message. -[3968.14 --> 3970.06] Find meaning in things. -[3970.50 --> 3972.36] Find purpose in titles. -[3972.84 --> 3976.02] Find it in likes and in clicks. -[3976.48 --> 3978.74] Find meaning in money or in toys -[3978.74 --> 3980.60] or in status or influence. -[3980.60 --> 3984.34] And if you can't find what you're looking for -[3984.34 --> 3985.64] in those things, -[3986.76 --> 3991.68] well, we are given a palpable distraction -[3991.68 --> 3993.82] to numb the anxiety, -[3994.08 --> 3995.48] to quiet the loss, -[3995.70 --> 3996.76] and to soften the hurt. -[3996.76 --> 4003.88] If the message isn't the rat race of go, do, do, do, -[4003.88 --> 4006.56] it's a distraction buffet -[4006.56 --> 4009.60] where we get to choose from a number -[4009.60 --> 4013.08] of platters of numbing agents -[4013.08 --> 4017.32] that the growing void in our hearts and minds -[4017.32 --> 4018.14] try to fill. -[4018.14 --> 4021.56] Or to put it another way, -[4021.56 --> 4026.00] comfort, autonomy, and peace of mind -[4026.00 --> 4028.34] are the gods of this age. -[4028.34 --> 4031.64] And they're calling for our attention. -[4031.64 --> 4035.74] But what if, -[4036.24 --> 4041.12] what if the longing that's underneath all of that, -[4042.00 --> 4044.74] right, the truth that purpose anxiety -[4044.74 --> 4046.06] actually exposes, -[4046.64 --> 4048.30] is the sense, -[4048.86 --> 4049.60] the reality, -[4049.60 --> 4052.04] that we were made for something more. -[4053.04 --> 4054.26] Something eternal. -[4054.26 --> 4055.52] Right? -[4055.62 --> 4057.68] That something beyond us -[4057.68 --> 4060.36] is necessary for the meaning -[4060.36 --> 4061.98] that comes out of us -[4061.98 --> 4064.24] and is found around us. -[4064.58 --> 4066.38] Something that will not disappoint. -[4066.72 --> 4069.60] Something that our souls are made to connect with. -[4070.00 --> 4073.96] What if the call to strive together -[4073.96 --> 4076.54] as one for the faith of the gospel, -[4077.20 --> 4079.82] what if the call to conduct ourselves -[4079.82 --> 4081.74] in a manner worthy of Christ's name, -[4081.98 --> 4083.62] even when it costs us, -[4083.62 --> 4085.84] is our purpose? -[4087.50 --> 4090.20] What if there is the meaning and purpose -[4090.20 --> 4093.38] that we find in striving and suffering -[4093.38 --> 4095.60] with Christ -[4095.60 --> 4099.48] is actually where you can find wholeness? -[4100.32 --> 4102.94] What if that's the point of all of this? -[4104.32 --> 4105.84] And if that's true, -[4108.42 --> 4111.94] what if we've settled for distractions -[4111.94 --> 4113.82] in place of it? -[4116.70 --> 4118.56] Today, as we kick off this -[4118.56 --> 4120.04] ministry and mission year, -[4120.20 --> 4121.48] I want us to look fresh -[4121.48 --> 4122.44] at what it means -[4122.44 --> 4125.70] to live a life worthy of the gospel, -[4125.94 --> 4127.42] to stand firm -[4127.42 --> 4130.06] and to be undetured by opposition, -[4130.32 --> 4133.22] to find meaning in Christ -[4133.22 --> 4134.94] and to find there the meaning -[4134.94 --> 4137.38] that our hearts long for. -[4137.38 --> 4141.80] Our big idea, as it were, this morning, -[4142.20 --> 4143.82] our theme, the banner under which -[4143.82 --> 4145.36] we're going to dig today -[4145.36 --> 4146.84] is that in Christ -[4146.84 --> 4149.66] is the meaning our hearts long for. -[4150.72 --> 4151.60] It's that simple. -[4152.02 --> 4153.30] In Christ is the meaning -[4153.30 --> 4154.64] that our hearts long for. -[4154.76 --> 4157.20] That's why and how we live a life -[4157.20 --> 4158.46] worthy of the gospel. -[4158.60 --> 4160.92] How and why we stand firm together -[4160.92 --> 4162.40] in the face of opposition -[4162.40 --> 4164.00] and challenge from the world -[4164.00 --> 4166.26] and, honestly, challenge from our own hearts. -[4166.26 --> 4172.28] Now, we're not the first people -[4172.28 --> 4173.82] to feel this kind of pressure, -[4173.96 --> 4175.26] although perhaps we feel it uniquely -[4175.26 --> 4177.08] in our world today, right? -[4177.12 --> 4178.26] To feel pulled by a hundred -[4178.26 --> 4179.04] different directions -[4179.04 --> 4180.16] of competing voices, -[4180.58 --> 4181.90] promising meaning and comfort -[4181.90 --> 4182.68] and identity. -[4183.20 --> 4185.40] The Philippians knew this as well. -[4186.88 --> 4187.90] The Philippian church -[4187.90 --> 4190.26] is a small-ish group of Christians -[4190.80 --> 4192.28] living in community -[4192.28 --> 4194.94] in the proud Roman colony -[4194.94 --> 4196.28] of Philippi. -[4197.76 --> 4198.58] Now, Philippi -[4198.58 --> 4200.24] is a city -[4200.24 --> 4202.02] established -[4202.02 --> 4204.04] and populated -[4204.04 --> 4206.46] by retired soldiers -[4206.46 --> 4208.28] and people -[4208.28 --> 4209.42] who have been granted -[4209.42 --> 4210.78] Roman citizenship -[4210.78 --> 4212.16] as a reward -[4212.16 --> 4214.12] for their loyalty to Caesar. -[4215.28 --> 4216.28] Roman culture -[4216.80 --> 4218.72] offers its own version -[4218.72 --> 4219.64] of the good life, -[4219.74 --> 4221.14] about what peace is, -[4221.14 --> 4222.92] of how to get prosperity -[4222.92 --> 4224.16] and security -[4224.16 --> 4226.16] under the lordship -[4226.16 --> 4227.26] of Caesar. -[4227.26 --> 4231.64] and those promises -[4231.64 --> 4232.88] and realities -[4232.88 --> 4234.02] weren't available -[4234.02 --> 4234.84] to everyone. -[4237.04 --> 4237.66] Right? -[4237.70 --> 4238.64] The Roman Empire, -[4239.12 --> 4241.22] by its grace, -[4241.50 --> 4242.58] dispensed that -[4242.58 --> 4243.68] to citizens -[4243.68 --> 4244.78] who had earned it -[4244.78 --> 4246.12] and Philippi -[4246.12 --> 4246.96] is a colony -[4246.96 --> 4248.40] made up of those. -[4248.82 --> 4249.18] And, -[4249.24 --> 4250.34] in the Roman Empire, -[4250.76 --> 4252.08] when you didn't quite -[4252.08 --> 4253.10] get that, -[4253.18 --> 4254.04] when you didn't have -[4254.04 --> 4254.78] that reward, -[4254.78 --> 4256.40] the Roman Empire -[4256.40 --> 4257.58] was expert -[4257.58 --> 4259.16] at distraction -[4259.16 --> 4260.74] and spectacle -[4260.74 --> 4262.00] to turn your eyes -[4262.00 --> 4262.62] away from it. -[4264.24 --> 4265.26] And it's into -[4265.26 --> 4266.26] that particular -[4266.26 --> 4268.74] cultural pressure cooker, -[4269.18 --> 4269.42] right, -[4269.46 --> 4270.44] with its conflicting -[4270.44 --> 4271.30] loyalties -[4271.30 --> 4272.70] and public opposition -[4272.70 --> 4273.88] that Paul -[4273.88 --> 4275.02] writes to the church. -[4276.32 --> 4277.46] And it's worth noting -[4277.46 --> 4278.08] that Paul -[4278.08 --> 4279.32] writes this letter -[4279.32 --> 4280.26] while he himself -[4280.26 --> 4281.78] is in a Roman prison. -[4281.78 --> 4284.60] And he says, -[4284.74 --> 4285.58] whatever happens, -[4285.80 --> 4286.66] conduct yourselves -[4286.66 --> 4287.28] in a manner -[4287.28 --> 4288.60] worthy of the gospel -[4288.60 --> 4289.20] of Christ. -[4289.74 --> 4289.96] Then, -[4290.06 --> 4290.80] whether I come -[4290.80 --> 4291.78] and see you -[4291.78 --> 4292.86] or only hear about you -[4292.86 --> 4293.46] in my absence, -[4293.62 --> 4294.60] I will know -[4294.60 --> 4295.58] that you stand -[4295.58 --> 4297.24] firm in the one spirit, -[4297.92 --> 4298.94] striving together, -[4299.44 --> 4301.86] striving together -[4301.86 --> 4302.40] as one -[4302.40 --> 4303.02] for the faith -[4303.02 --> 4303.72] of the gospel -[4303.72 --> 4305.16] without being frightened -[4305.16 --> 4306.30] in any way -[4306.30 --> 4307.96] by those who oppose you. -[4309.48 --> 4310.36] If you were to start -[4310.36 --> 4310.94] at the beginning -[4310.94 --> 4311.62] of Philippians -[4311.62 --> 4312.24] and read -[4312.24 --> 4314.26] into our text, -[4314.40 --> 4314.84] you would see -[4314.84 --> 4315.42] that this -[4315.42 --> 4317.56] is the first command -[4317.56 --> 4318.94] in the whole letter. -[4320.36 --> 4321.34] And the key phrase -[4321.34 --> 4322.08] in it is right -[4322.08 --> 4322.66] at the start. -[4323.50 --> 4324.70] Conduct yourselves. -[4326.30 --> 4326.50] Now, -[4326.54 --> 4326.96] in Greek, -[4327.08 --> 4327.86] the word that Paul -[4327.86 --> 4328.66] is using here -[4328.66 --> 4329.70] literally means -[4329.70 --> 4331.46] live as citizens. -[4333.18 --> 4333.48] Again, -[4333.88 --> 4334.04] right, -[4334.08 --> 4334.60] that word -[4334.60 --> 4335.36] would have landed -[4335.36 --> 4336.44] with a very particular -[4336.44 --> 4337.30] force -[4337.30 --> 4338.52] for people -[4338.52 --> 4339.28] in Philippi. -[4340.24 --> 4340.44] Right, -[4340.44 --> 4341.56] their whole identity -[4341.56 --> 4342.84] is bound up -[4342.84 --> 4343.60] with the privilege -[4343.60 --> 4344.64] of being -[4344.64 --> 4345.78] a Roman colony. -[4346.58 --> 4347.14] Bound up -[4347.14 --> 4348.18] with the privilege -[4348.18 --> 4349.80] of Roman citizenship -[4349.80 --> 4351.02] that means security -[4351.02 --> 4351.74] and status -[4351.74 --> 4352.30] and a sense -[4352.30 --> 4352.90] of belonging -[4352.90 --> 4353.60] into something -[4353.60 --> 4355.04] bigger than you are. -[4355.16 --> 4355.90] Paul turns that -[4355.90 --> 4356.38] on his head -[4356.38 --> 4357.52] in these first words. -[4359.26 --> 4359.74] Right, -[4359.78 --> 4360.12] he says, -[4360.24 --> 4360.60] in effect, -[4360.96 --> 4362.42] your truest citizenship -[4362.42 --> 4363.54] isn't Rome, -[4364.06 --> 4364.82] it's the kingdom -[4364.82 --> 4365.28] of heaven. -[4366.46 --> 4367.58] And so live like it. -[4367.58 --> 4369.96] Let your public life -[4369.96 --> 4370.88] as a community -[4370.88 --> 4372.50] reflect the gospel, -[4373.22 --> 4374.92] not the empire. -[4376.12 --> 4377.80] Later in this same letter, -[4377.92 --> 4378.56] in chapter 3, -[4378.60 --> 4379.04] verse 20, -[4379.26 --> 4380.26] he says it explicitly. -[4380.42 --> 4380.66] He says, -[4380.74 --> 4381.42] our citizenship -[4381.42 --> 4383.24] is in heaven. -[4384.64 --> 4385.84] So it begs the question -[4385.84 --> 4386.48] for us, right, -[4386.54 --> 4387.64] what does a life -[4387.64 --> 4389.24] worthy of the gospel, -[4389.44 --> 4390.74] what does it look like -[4390.74 --> 4392.64] to live as citizens -[4392.64 --> 4394.40] in the kingdom of heaven? -[4394.40 --> 4396.32] Paul gives us -[4396.32 --> 4397.58] three marks -[4397.58 --> 4398.42] right here -[4398.42 --> 4399.84] in these verses. -[4400.76 --> 4401.40] First, -[4402.24 --> 4403.40] it looks like -[4403.40 --> 4404.88] standing firm -[4404.88 --> 4406.42] in the one spirit. -[4407.84 --> 4409.32] Now that standing firm -[4409.32 --> 4411.80] is a military image -[4411.80 --> 4413.44] of soldiers -[4413.44 --> 4415.22] standing together -[4415.22 --> 4416.28] in one line, -[4416.84 --> 4417.94] of holding the line. -[4419.40 --> 4419.98] Right, -[4420.02 --> 4421.34] and then it also looks -[4421.34 --> 4423.04] like striving together -[4423.04 --> 4424.70] as one for the faith -[4424.70 --> 4425.32] of the gospel. -[4425.60 --> 4426.74] And that Greek word there -[4426.74 --> 4427.94] for striving together -[4427.94 --> 4429.50] is athletic language. -[4429.98 --> 4431.16] It's like teammates -[4431.16 --> 4431.98] contending -[4431.98 --> 4433.42] for the same victory, -[4433.54 --> 4434.54] for the same prize. -[4435.94 --> 4436.62] And then third, -[4437.04 --> 4438.14] it looks like living -[4438.14 --> 4439.58] without being frightened -[4439.58 --> 4440.66] in any way. -[4441.44 --> 4442.12] Now that word, -[4442.46 --> 4442.72] frightened, -[4443.08 --> 4443.90] is used -[4443.90 --> 4445.00] to refer to -[4445.00 --> 4445.76] a horse -[4445.76 --> 4446.70] that is startled -[4446.70 --> 4448.32] and bolts in fear. -[4449.32 --> 4449.42] Right, -[4449.44 --> 4450.80] and so gospel-shaped -[4450.80 --> 4451.66] citizenship -[4451.66 --> 4453.22] means unity, -[4454.22 --> 4454.70] courage, -[4455.14 --> 4456.04] and perseverance -[4456.04 --> 4457.74] in the face of pressure. -[4458.66 --> 4459.58] And like athletes -[4459.58 --> 4460.68] on the same team -[4460.68 --> 4461.36] or soldiers -[4461.36 --> 4463.00] who are locking shields, -[4463.36 --> 4464.26] this isn't about -[4464.26 --> 4465.60] individual heroics, -[4465.74 --> 4467.84] this is together language. -[4468.90 --> 4469.02] Right, -[4469.04 --> 4470.06] the gospel isn't -[4470.06 --> 4471.14] being advanced -[4471.14 --> 4472.50] by isolated believers -[4472.50 --> 4473.28] chasing after -[4473.28 --> 4474.20] a private spirituality, -[4474.58 --> 4475.70] but by a church -[4475.70 --> 4477.20] standing united, -[4477.76 --> 4478.22] striving, -[4478.22 --> 4479.62] and suffering -[4479.62 --> 4480.60] together. -[4483.68 --> 4484.68] You can probably -[4484.68 --> 4485.60] already sense this, -[4486.54 --> 4488.22] but that kind of unity, -[4488.82 --> 4489.92] that kind of togetherness -[4489.92 --> 4491.78] doesn't come naturally. -[4493.66 --> 4493.80] Right, -[4493.88 --> 4495.08] in Philippians 4, -[4495.16 --> 4495.98] at the end of the letter, -[4496.12 --> 4497.92] Paul actually calls out -[4497.92 --> 4498.66] two leaders -[4498.66 --> 4499.80] in the community, -[4500.24 --> 4501.70] Euodia and Synecdoche, -[4502.28 --> 4503.36] and these two women -[4503.36 --> 4504.08] were serving -[4504.08 --> 4504.58] as leaders -[4504.58 --> 4505.30] in the community, -[4505.30 --> 4506.80] and he pleads with them -[4506.80 --> 4508.86] to be of the same mind -[4508.86 --> 4509.84] as the Lord. -[4511.06 --> 4511.40] Again, -[4511.50 --> 4511.84] like I said, -[4511.88 --> 4513.52] these aren't fringe figures, -[4513.92 --> 4514.06] right, -[4514.16 --> 4515.40] Paul describes them -[4515.40 --> 4516.32] as contending -[4516.32 --> 4517.34] at his side -[4517.34 --> 4517.98] in the cause -[4517.98 --> 4518.56] of the gospel. -[4518.90 --> 4520.36] The issue that divides them -[4520.36 --> 4521.18] isn't trivial, -[4521.64 --> 4522.88] it's about how to -[4522.88 --> 4523.82] live a life -[4523.82 --> 4524.74] worthy of the gospel, -[4524.86 --> 4526.00] how to conduct yourselves -[4526.00 --> 4526.66] in a manner -[4526.66 --> 4527.58] worthy of Christ. -[4527.68 --> 4529.06] It's about how to contend -[4529.06 --> 4530.16] for the gospel -[4530.16 --> 4531.70] in a place like Philippi. -[4531.70 --> 4533.92] The gospel work -[4533.92 --> 4535.40] was being hijacked -[4535.40 --> 4536.32] by distraction -[4536.32 --> 4537.72] and disagreement. -[4547.56 --> 4548.30] I've been doing -[4548.30 --> 4549.04] a lot of reflecting -[4549.04 --> 4549.58] this summer -[4549.58 --> 4552.40] on what this means. -[4554.52 --> 4555.32] Because this sounds -[4555.32 --> 4556.12] familiar to me. -[4557.66 --> 4558.90] It can be so easy -[4558.90 --> 4559.52] for church, -[4560.16 --> 4561.12] for Christians, -[4561.12 --> 4562.34] for counsel, -[4562.64 --> 4563.98] or for denominational -[4563.98 --> 4564.84] conversations, -[4565.44 --> 4565.56] right, -[4565.56 --> 4566.66] it can be so easy -[4566.66 --> 4569.10] for our work together -[4569.10 --> 4570.98] to get sidetracked -[4570.98 --> 4572.48] by lesser agendas. -[4574.04 --> 4574.60] Right? -[4574.74 --> 4575.94] And maybe for a time -[4575.94 --> 4576.62] they're important -[4576.62 --> 4577.90] and necessary, -[4578.38 --> 4579.62] but in continuing -[4579.62 --> 4580.44] to come back -[4580.44 --> 4581.18] over and over -[4581.18 --> 4581.88] and over again -[4581.88 --> 4582.38] to these things, -[4582.54 --> 4583.18] we're no longer -[4583.18 --> 4584.24] serving to advance -[4584.24 --> 4584.86] the gospel, -[4585.20 --> 4586.12] but we're on our own -[4586.12 --> 4586.88] hobby horse, -[4587.12 --> 4587.82] pet project, -[4587.92 --> 4588.58] or soapbox. -[4588.58 --> 4591.00] This summer, -[4591.36 --> 4592.86] I had the chance -[4592.86 --> 4593.98] to preach -[4593.98 --> 4594.76] to a group -[4594.76 --> 4596.04] of CRC pastors -[4596.04 --> 4597.50] at a convention -[4597.50 --> 4598.56] that was held -[4598.56 --> 4599.18] in Ontario. -[4600.16 --> 4600.74] And to this group -[4600.74 --> 4601.74] of CRC pastors, -[4602.14 --> 4603.64] I asked this question. -[4605.52 --> 4606.22] I said, -[4606.32 --> 4607.44] what if conversations -[4607.44 --> 4608.74] about church order -[4608.74 --> 4609.74] or procedure -[4609.74 --> 4611.46] or national identity, -[4611.92 --> 4613.06] for all of their importance, -[4613.30 --> 4614.80] have become red herrings -[4614.80 --> 4615.70] pulling us away -[4615.70 --> 4616.68] from the central mission -[4616.68 --> 4617.22] of the gospel? -[4618.42 --> 4619.90] What might it look like -[4619.90 --> 4620.64] for our churches -[4620.64 --> 4622.12] to not only be -[4622.12 --> 4623.38] dogmatically committed -[4623.38 --> 4624.26] to the content -[4624.26 --> 4625.20] of the gospel, -[4625.56 --> 4627.72] but also doggedly committed -[4627.72 --> 4629.06] to the agenda -[4629.06 --> 4630.26] of the gospel, -[4630.40 --> 4631.32] to see lives -[4631.32 --> 4632.10] and neighborhoods -[4632.10 --> 4634.08] transformed by Christ? -[4635.52 --> 4636.92] And that same question -[4636.92 --> 4637.88] can be asked right here, -[4638.36 --> 4638.82] right now. -[4640.42 --> 4641.84] What if we are settling -[4641.84 --> 4643.02] for distractions -[4643.02 --> 4644.42] when we should be running -[4644.42 --> 4645.72] after what the Holy Spirit -[4645.72 --> 4646.20] is doing? -[4647.88 --> 4648.96] What if we are settling -[4648.96 --> 4650.76] for something secondary -[4650.76 --> 4652.22] when we should be living -[4652.22 --> 4653.18] a life worthy -[4653.18 --> 4654.34] of the gospel -[4654.34 --> 4656.64] as our very contending -[4656.64 --> 4658.22] for the gospel? -[4660.96 --> 4662.54] Now, this isn't a new problem. -[4663.32 --> 4664.18] Very clearly, -[4664.44 --> 4665.24] Paul's addressing it. -[4666.38 --> 4667.76] In the second century, -[4668.12 --> 4669.04] there's a church father. -[4669.18 --> 4670.28] His name is Irenaeus. -[4670.28 --> 4672.24] He would actually go on -[4672.24 --> 4673.16] to argue -[4673.16 --> 4674.58] that the moral -[4674.58 --> 4676.32] and spiritual character -[4676.32 --> 4678.24] of Christian leaders -[4678.24 --> 4680.66] become itself -[4680.66 --> 4681.70] unapologetic -[4681.70 --> 4682.60] for the truth -[4682.60 --> 4683.20] of the gospel. -[4684.06 --> 4685.46] He says that -[4685.46 --> 4686.24] ultimately, -[4686.52 --> 4687.84] it is holiness, -[4688.30 --> 4689.82] not head knowledge, -[4690.24 --> 4691.88] that is the truest test -[4691.88 --> 4692.70] of Christian belief. -[4692.70 --> 4697.72] That one cuts me -[4697.72 --> 4698.24] a little bit. -[4699.92 --> 4700.60] Holiness, -[4700.92 --> 4701.90] not head knowledge. -[4702.60 --> 4703.68] That's the truest test -[4703.68 --> 4704.50] of Christian belief. -[4707.54 --> 4708.52] John Owen, -[4708.86 --> 4711.40] he's a 17th century pastor. -[4712.08 --> 4713.44] He continues to speak -[4713.44 --> 4714.60] to pastors. -[4715.32 --> 4715.90] He says, -[4716.02 --> 4717.16] a pastor's life -[4717.16 --> 4718.16] should be vocal. -[4719.26 --> 4720.76] Sermons must be practiced -[4720.76 --> 4721.92] as well as preached. -[4722.70 --> 4725.22] So I share that with you -[4725.22 --> 4726.16] because I'm putting myself -[4726.16 --> 4726.84] on blast, -[4726.92 --> 4728.22] as they say here. -[4729.18 --> 4730.02] But also, -[4730.18 --> 4730.52] elders, -[4731.28 --> 4732.70] deacons in this church, -[4733.04 --> 4733.66] you are called -[4733.66 --> 4734.98] to be an example. -[4736.06 --> 4737.46] As the Apostle Paul says, -[4737.58 --> 4739.02] follow my example -[4739.02 --> 4739.78] as I follow -[4739.78 --> 4740.84] the example of Christ. -[4741.94 --> 4742.82] To be a leader -[4742.82 --> 4745.26] is to lead in -[4745.26 --> 4747.42] living a life -[4747.42 --> 4749.06] worthy of the calling. -[4749.22 --> 4750.34] To lead in -[4750.34 --> 4751.00] contending -[4751.00 --> 4752.34] for the gospel. -[4752.70 --> 4757.08] division -[4757.08 --> 4760.02] and hypocrisy -[4760.02 --> 4762.86] and mission drift -[4762.86 --> 4765.12] undermine -[4765.12 --> 4766.72] the witness -[4766.72 --> 4768.16] of the gospel -[4768.16 --> 4770.18] just as much -[4770.18 --> 4771.82] as false teaching does. -[4771.82 --> 4777.84] So Paul calls us back. -[4779.14 --> 4780.04] He calls us back -[4780.04 --> 4780.38] and he says, -[4780.80 --> 4781.30] stand firm, -[4781.98 --> 4782.94] strive together -[4782.94 --> 4784.02] side by side, -[4784.40 --> 4785.54] refuse to be -[4785.54 --> 4786.18] frightened -[4786.18 --> 4787.34] into silence -[4787.34 --> 4788.60] or splintered -[4788.60 --> 4789.46] into factions. -[4789.46 --> 4791.96] the church's unity -[4791.96 --> 4793.78] is not a sentimental -[4793.78 --> 4794.68] extra, -[4795.04 --> 4796.10] an add-on -[4796.10 --> 4796.78] that makes us -[4796.78 --> 4797.44] feel good. -[4797.54 --> 4798.84] It's part of the witness. -[4800.42 --> 4801.48] Jesus prayed this -[4801.48 --> 4802.40] in John 17. -[4802.58 --> 4802.98] He prayed -[4802.98 --> 4804.16] and said that -[4804.16 --> 4805.08] our oneness -[4805.08 --> 4805.74] in him -[4805.74 --> 4806.52] was given -[4806.52 --> 4808.12] so that the world -[4808.12 --> 4809.12] may believe. -[4809.12 --> 4812.28] when we contend -[4812.28 --> 4813.16] together -[4813.16 --> 4814.04] rather than -[4814.04 --> 4815.32] against each other -[4815.32 --> 4816.30] the gospel -[4816.30 --> 4817.22] shines with -[4817.22 --> 4817.74] credibility -[4817.74 --> 4819.04] and power. -[4821.28 --> 4822.08] Paul isn't just -[4822.08 --> 4823.60] calling the Philippians -[4823.60 --> 4824.28] to unity, -[4824.28 --> 4825.04] right? -[4825.08 --> 4825.80] He's calling them -[4825.80 --> 4826.62] to unity -[4826.62 --> 4829.00] with courage. -[4829.00 --> 4830.56] They are to -[4830.56 --> 4831.34] stand firm -[4831.34 --> 4832.34] in the one spirit -[4832.34 --> 4833.34] striving together -[4833.34 --> 4834.36] as one for the -[4834.36 --> 4835.06] faith of the gospel -[4835.06 --> 4836.18] without being frightened -[4836.18 --> 4837.58] in any way -[4837.58 --> 4838.56] by those who -[4838.56 --> 4839.18] oppose you. -[4840.54 --> 4841.04] That phrase, -[4841.12 --> 4841.52] like we said, -[4841.58 --> 4842.30] without being frightened -[4842.30 --> 4844.14] is vivid. -[4845.64 --> 4846.00] Paul says, -[4846.22 --> 4846.98] don't be like that. -[4847.18 --> 4848.12] Don't let opposition -[4848.12 --> 4849.26] or slander -[4849.26 --> 4850.26] or suffering -[4850.26 --> 4851.50] make you scatter, -[4851.82 --> 4852.48] make you bolt. -[4855.64 --> 4856.94] The Philippians knew -[4856.94 --> 4858.28] what this kind of courage -[4858.28 --> 4858.96] looked like. -[4859.88 --> 4861.50] Their very first glimpse -[4861.50 --> 4862.02] of it, -[4862.32 --> 4863.32] of the gospel -[4863.32 --> 4865.50] came when Paul -[4865.50 --> 4866.42] and Silas -[4866.42 --> 4867.06] were being, -[4868.24 --> 4869.40] they came as -[4869.40 --> 4870.30] missionaries there. -[4870.36 --> 4871.04] You can read about it -[4871.04 --> 4871.88] in Acts 16 -[4871.88 --> 4873.42] and by the work -[4873.42 --> 4874.24] that they were doing -[4874.24 --> 4875.20] they were beaten -[4875.20 --> 4876.46] and arrested -[4876.46 --> 4877.34] and thrown -[4877.34 --> 4878.52] into prison -[4878.52 --> 4879.40] in Philippi. -[4881.50 --> 4882.56] And as we read -[4882.56 --> 4883.32] that story, -[4884.68 --> 4885.66] Paul and Silas -[4885.66 --> 4886.40] in prison -[4886.40 --> 4887.96] at midnight -[4887.96 --> 4890.96] are singing songs. -[4891.98 --> 4893.52] They're singing hymns. -[4894.32 --> 4894.96] They're praying. -[4895.42 --> 4896.62] They're bearing witness -[4896.62 --> 4897.50] with joy -[4897.50 --> 4898.98] and in their doing that -[4898.98 --> 4900.32] an earthquake happens -[4900.32 --> 4901.68] and the doors -[4901.68 --> 4902.90] are thrown open -[4902.90 --> 4904.34] and the jailer -[4904.34 --> 4905.60] and his whole household -[4905.60 --> 4906.64] as a result of this -[4906.64 --> 4907.62] come to faith -[4907.62 --> 4909.34] because of the courage -[4909.34 --> 4910.40] and the joy -[4910.40 --> 4911.50] that he saw -[4911.50 --> 4912.96] in these two men -[4912.96 --> 4913.90] that the empire -[4913.90 --> 4915.28] just couldn't explain. -[4916.08 --> 4917.28] That didn't make sense -[4917.28 --> 4918.16] to his frame -[4918.16 --> 4919.04] of reference -[4919.04 --> 4919.90] and seeing the world. -[4920.54 --> 4921.38] And Paul is writing -[4921.38 --> 4922.16] out of the same -[4922.16 --> 4922.74] conviction -[4922.74 --> 4923.54] now. -[4924.96 --> 4925.26] That's why -[4925.26 --> 4926.00] Philippians -[4926.00 --> 4927.18] is often called -[4927.18 --> 4928.46] the joy letter -[4928.46 --> 4929.54] or the rejoicing -[4929.54 --> 4930.22] letter. -[4931.32 --> 4932.02] Carl Barth, -[4932.22 --> 4933.06] the theologian -[4933.06 --> 4934.34] from the 20th century, -[4934.34 --> 4935.00] he once said -[4935.00 --> 4936.18] that joy -[4936.18 --> 4937.40] in Philippians -[4937.40 --> 4939.06] is the defiant -[4939.06 --> 4939.82] nevertheless. -[4941.08 --> 4942.48] It's a full stop -[4942.48 --> 4943.80] against the Philippians -[4943.80 --> 4944.70] anxiety. -[4945.40 --> 4946.66] That's what we see -[4946.66 --> 4948.16] in Paul and Silas. -[4948.26 --> 4949.86] A defiant joy. -[4950.28 --> 4952.28] A nevertheless joy -[4952.28 --> 4953.32] even when they're -[4953.32 --> 4954.02] being bruised -[4954.02 --> 4954.82] and beaten -[4954.82 --> 4955.78] and bleeding. -[4956.76 --> 4957.46] And Paul tells -[4957.46 --> 4958.18] the Philippians -[4958.18 --> 4959.34] and he tells us -[4959.86 --> 4962.64] that this is -[4962.64 --> 4963.56] for you. -[4964.52 --> 4964.68] Well, -[4964.98 --> 4965.56] and then he adds -[4965.56 --> 4966.88] for it has been -[4966.88 --> 4968.00] granted to you -[4968.00 --> 4969.14] on behalf of Christ -[4969.14 --> 4970.30] not only to believe -[4970.30 --> 4971.06] in him -[4971.06 --> 4973.34] but also to suffer -[4973.34 --> 4974.70] for him. -[4976.16 --> 4976.50] Did you catch -[4976.50 --> 4977.14] the language there? -[4977.24 --> 4977.92] It's really strange. -[4979.04 --> 4980.20] Granted to you. -[4981.04 --> 4981.92] It has been granted -[4981.92 --> 4982.72] to you. -[4983.10 --> 4984.18] That's gifting -[4984.18 --> 4985.10] language. -[4986.56 --> 4986.66] Right? -[4986.72 --> 4987.36] Paul treats -[4987.36 --> 4988.58] suffering for Christ -[4988.58 --> 4989.50] not as a curse, -[4990.32 --> 4991.42] not as an interruption -[4991.42 --> 4992.46] to the Christian life, -[4992.64 --> 4994.04] but as part of the package -[4994.04 --> 4995.52] for belonging to Jesus. -[4996.36 --> 4997.24] As a privilege -[4997.24 --> 4999.06] for being seen -[4999.06 --> 4999.82] in fellowship -[4999.82 --> 5001.16] and with the same eyes -[5001.16 --> 5001.84] that he was seen. -[5002.58 --> 5003.64] Faith and suffering -[5003.64 --> 5004.76] come together -[5004.76 --> 5005.98] because the cross -[5005.98 --> 5007.00] and resurrection -[5007.00 --> 5008.28] belong together. -[5010.44 --> 5011.78] And this is the heartbeat -[5011.78 --> 5013.62] of the early church -[5013.62 --> 5014.32] and it's my prayer -[5014.32 --> 5014.80] that it might -[5014.80 --> 5015.50] once again -[5015.50 --> 5016.34] become the heartbeat -[5016.34 --> 5017.94] of the western church. -[5018.30 --> 5020.04] Of this church. -[5020.04 --> 5026.82] early Christians -[5026.82 --> 5028.52] didn't chase -[5028.52 --> 5029.64] after suffering -[5029.64 --> 5031.66] but it came -[5031.66 --> 5032.12] for them -[5032.12 --> 5033.56] and when it did -[5033.56 --> 5034.74] they understood -[5034.74 --> 5036.28] that this is how -[5036.28 --> 5037.54] the gospel advances. -[5038.02 --> 5038.56] This is how -[5038.56 --> 5039.48] Christ is made -[5039.48 --> 5040.24] visible -[5040.24 --> 5041.28] how our lives -[5041.28 --> 5042.24] are conformed -[5042.24 --> 5042.96] to his. -[5044.36 --> 5044.70] And again -[5044.70 --> 5045.86] if we're honest -[5045.86 --> 5046.36] right -[5046.36 --> 5046.82] and I hope -[5046.82 --> 5047.82] we have the eyes -[5047.82 --> 5048.32] to see it -[5048.32 --> 5049.20] this cuts -[5049.20 --> 5050.36] against the grain -[5050.36 --> 5051.38] of our culture. -[5053.20 --> 5053.42] Right? -[5053.46 --> 5053.84] What did we say -[5053.84 --> 5054.24] at the beginning? -[5054.70 --> 5054.82] Right? -[5054.88 --> 5055.60] That comfort -[5055.60 --> 5056.62] and safety -[5056.62 --> 5057.82] and peace of mind -[5057.82 --> 5058.50] are the idols -[5058.50 --> 5059.64] of our age. -[5060.22 --> 5060.34] Right? -[5060.34 --> 5060.90] That meaning -[5060.90 --> 5061.74] comes from -[5061.74 --> 5062.64] control -[5062.64 --> 5063.40] to ensure -[5063.40 --> 5063.82] that we -[5063.82 --> 5064.88] have peace -[5064.88 --> 5065.94] and security -[5065.94 --> 5067.22] and that everything -[5067.22 --> 5068.94] is good. -[5068.94 --> 5071.26] the gospel -[5071.26 --> 5072.26] says -[5072.26 --> 5072.84] there is -[5072.84 --> 5074.12] real meaning -[5074.12 --> 5075.52] there's real joy -[5075.52 --> 5077.16] in losing comfort -[5077.16 --> 5078.90] in risking safety -[5078.90 --> 5080.74] in surrendering control -[5080.74 --> 5081.96] for the sake of Christ -[5081.96 --> 5082.80] and for his kingdom. -[5083.80 --> 5083.88] Right? -[5083.90 --> 5084.62] That's why the apostle -[5084.62 --> 5085.70] Paul says -[5085.70 --> 5086.88] we need courage. -[5087.88 --> 5087.96] Right? -[5088.00 --> 5089.04] Not because the opposition -[5089.04 --> 5089.90] isn't real -[5089.90 --> 5091.04] but because Jesus -[5091.04 --> 5092.04] is risen -[5092.04 --> 5093.48] because the tomb -[5093.48 --> 5094.02] is empty -[5094.02 --> 5094.96] because his kingdom -[5094.96 --> 5096.12] is unshakable -[5096.12 --> 5097.54] and so you can go -[5097.54 --> 5098.68] with courage. -[5102.68 --> 5103.44] Now this -[5103.44 --> 5104.80] call to unity -[5104.80 --> 5106.54] and courage -[5106.54 --> 5108.22] they aren't ends -[5108.22 --> 5108.98] in themselves. -[5110.34 --> 5110.44] Right? -[5110.48 --> 5111.08] They exist -[5111.08 --> 5111.74] together -[5111.74 --> 5112.30] in the life -[5112.30 --> 5112.78] of the believer -[5112.78 --> 5113.64] for something bigger. -[5114.92 --> 5115.12] Right? -[5115.14 --> 5116.04] To advance -[5116.04 --> 5116.94] the gospel. -[5117.50 --> 5117.96] Paul says -[5117.96 --> 5118.96] that we are to strive -[5118.96 --> 5119.98] for the faith -[5119.98 --> 5121.20] of the gospel. -[5121.40 --> 5121.92] Everything -[5121.92 --> 5123.28] in this passage -[5123.28 --> 5124.76] points us -[5124.76 --> 5125.42] outward -[5125.42 --> 5126.92] to mission -[5126.92 --> 5128.24] to witness -[5128.24 --> 5129.30] to the world -[5129.30 --> 5130.80] that God so loves. -[5132.12 --> 5133.16] Paul models this -[5133.16 --> 5133.38] right? -[5133.46 --> 5134.64] Throughout the whole letter. -[5135.08 --> 5135.70] In chapter 1 -[5135.70 --> 5136.42] he describes -[5136.42 --> 5137.82] how his imprisonment -[5137.82 --> 5139.26] has actually served -[5139.26 --> 5140.46] to advance the gospel. -[5140.60 --> 5141.32] That's in verse 12. -[5141.78 --> 5142.70] He goes on to say -[5142.70 --> 5143.84] that some preach Christ -[5143.84 --> 5144.48] out of envy -[5144.48 --> 5145.64] others out of goodwill -[5145.64 --> 5146.58] but either way -[5146.58 --> 5147.58] Paul rejoices -[5147.58 --> 5148.34] because Christ -[5148.34 --> 5149.18] is being proclaimed. -[5150.18 --> 5150.34] Right? -[5150.38 --> 5150.94] He doesn't care -[5150.94 --> 5151.82] about reputation -[5151.82 --> 5153.12] he cares about -[5153.12 --> 5154.16] the gospel's reach. -[5154.16 --> 5156.66] And later -[5156.66 --> 5157.18] in the letter -[5157.18 --> 5158.60] he thanks -[5158.60 --> 5159.40] the Philippians -[5159.40 --> 5160.82] for their partnership -[5160.82 --> 5162.70] in this mission. -[5163.40 --> 5164.04] Chapter 4 -[5164.04 --> 5164.86] he says -[5164.86 --> 5166.48] they shared -[5166.48 --> 5167.06] with me -[5167.06 --> 5167.62] in the matter -[5167.62 --> 5168.08] of giving -[5168.08 --> 5168.84] and receiving -[5168.84 --> 5171.36] you sent me -[5171.36 --> 5171.78] aid -[5171.78 --> 5172.32] again -[5172.32 --> 5173.00] and again -[5173.00 --> 5173.76] when I was -[5173.76 --> 5174.12] in need. -[5174.96 --> 5176.22] This is remarkable. -[5177.00 --> 5177.90] A small -[5177.90 --> 5178.66] persecuted -[5178.66 --> 5179.24] church -[5179.24 --> 5180.26] in Philippi -[5180.26 --> 5180.92] becomes -[5180.92 --> 5181.80] a hub -[5181.80 --> 5183.12] of global mission -[5183.12 --> 5184.54] through its prayers -[5184.54 --> 5185.62] and generosity -[5185.62 --> 5186.66] and sending. -[5188.62 --> 5189.22] So in line -[5189.22 --> 5190.28] with this same thing -[5190.28 --> 5191.04] I have a really -[5191.04 --> 5192.38] important question -[5192.38 --> 5192.88] for you. -[5194.48 --> 5194.96] Especially -[5194.96 --> 5196.62] if you're a young person -[5196.62 --> 5197.70] here this morning. -[5198.74 --> 5199.36] Especially if you are -[5199.36 --> 5200.02] in high school -[5200.02 --> 5200.74] or if you're -[5200.74 --> 5201.34] in university -[5201.34 --> 5203.18] or if you're -[5203.18 --> 5203.84] in college -[5203.84 --> 5205.54] or if you're -[5205.54 --> 5206.26] in a gap year -[5206.26 --> 5207.72] I want to gather -[5207.72 --> 5208.42] all of you up -[5208.42 --> 5209.20] into this question. -[5209.56 --> 5211.16] Is God calling you -[5211.16 --> 5212.94] to global mission? -[5216.18 --> 5216.92] Is he putting -[5216.92 --> 5217.76] something on your heart -[5217.76 --> 5218.48] that says -[5218.48 --> 5219.68] you must go? -[5221.76 --> 5222.64] Or is God -[5222.64 --> 5223.42] calling you -[5223.42 --> 5224.86] to be a pastor? -[5228.62 --> 5229.48] Is he laying -[5229.48 --> 5230.22] on your heart -[5230.22 --> 5232.64] a desire -[5232.64 --> 5234.14] and a push -[5234.14 --> 5235.66] and an idea -[5235.66 --> 5236.30] that you just -[5236.30 --> 5237.16] can't shake? -[5237.16 --> 5240.14] you need -[5240.14 --> 5240.78] to declare -[5240.78 --> 5241.90] his goodness -[5241.90 --> 5242.98] to the world. -[5245.26 --> 5245.82] Now -[5245.82 --> 5247.76] for all of you -[5247.76 --> 5248.58] everyone -[5248.58 --> 5249.26] and I don't -[5249.26 --> 5250.08] this point -[5250.08 --> 5250.60] it doesn't matter -[5250.60 --> 5251.64] how old you are -[5251.64 --> 5252.86] it matters -[5252.86 --> 5253.74] that you're here -[5253.74 --> 5256.12] God -[5256.12 --> 5257.48] is calling you -[5257.48 --> 5258.66] to be -[5258.66 --> 5259.64] a missionary. -[5260.90 --> 5261.58] Maybe not -[5261.58 --> 5262.22] a global missionary -[5262.22 --> 5262.74] and maybe not -[5262.74 --> 5263.36] a vocational -[5263.36 --> 5264.10] pastor -[5264.10 --> 5265.04] but you -[5265.04 --> 5266.78] as a Christian -[5266.78 --> 5268.04] are being called -[5268.04 --> 5268.70] to be -[5268.70 --> 5269.48] a missionary -[5269.48 --> 5270.72] a missionary -[5270.72 --> 5271.70] to your family -[5271.70 --> 5273.00] if they don't believe -[5273.00 --> 5273.52] a missionary -[5273.52 --> 5274.42] to your neighbors -[5274.42 --> 5275.76] to your co-workers -[5275.76 --> 5277.02] to your teammates -[5277.02 --> 5278.54] every single one -[5278.54 --> 5279.14] of us -[5279.14 --> 5280.26] is called -[5280.26 --> 5281.40] to go -[5281.40 --> 5282.34] with the gospel. -[5282.34 --> 5284.70] That captures -[5284.70 --> 5285.68] Paul's heartbeat -[5285.68 --> 5286.88] in this -[5286.88 --> 5287.76] passage. -[5289.06 --> 5289.98] A gospel -[5289.98 --> 5291.16] first church -[5291.16 --> 5291.98] is always -[5291.98 --> 5293.38] looking outward -[5293.38 --> 5295.36] always discipling -[5295.36 --> 5296.46] new leaders -[5296.46 --> 5297.38] sending out -[5297.38 --> 5298.02] new workers -[5298.02 --> 5299.20] planting new churches -[5299.20 --> 5299.94] translating -[5299.94 --> 5300.66] scriptures -[5300.66 --> 5301.94] supporting missionaries -[5301.94 --> 5302.46] locally -[5302.46 --> 5303.36] globally -[5303.36 --> 5304.48] anywhere -[5304.48 --> 5306.72] notice then -[5306.72 --> 5307.40] the connection -[5307.40 --> 5308.76] the unity -[5308.76 --> 5309.52] of the church -[5309.52 --> 5310.18] and the courage -[5310.18 --> 5310.86] of the church -[5310.86 --> 5311.92] fuel -[5311.92 --> 5313.26] that mission -[5313.26 --> 5316.00] churches -[5316.00 --> 5316.64] that get -[5316.64 --> 5317.20] distracted -[5317.20 --> 5318.06] by internal -[5318.06 --> 5318.70] squabbles -[5318.70 --> 5319.34] lose sight -[5319.34 --> 5320.04] of the harvest -[5320.04 --> 5322.64] churches -[5322.64 --> 5324.02] gripped by fear -[5324.02 --> 5325.38] hide behind -[5325.38 --> 5326.14] their walls -[5326.14 --> 5328.74] churches -[5328.74 --> 5329.44] that strive -[5329.44 --> 5329.94] together -[5329.94 --> 5330.70] as one -[5330.70 --> 5331.56] unafraid -[5331.56 --> 5332.28] of opposition -[5332.28 --> 5333.02] churches -[5333.02 --> 5333.76] like this -[5333.76 --> 5335.02] become gospel -[5335.02 --> 5336.30] outposts -[5336.30 --> 5337.04] embassies -[5337.04 --> 5337.92] for the kingdom -[5337.92 --> 5338.64] of heaven -[5338.64 --> 5339.18] colonies -[5339.18 --> 5339.80] of heaven -[5339.80 --> 5340.48] in a world -[5340.48 --> 5341.18] longing -[5341.18 --> 5341.80] for hope -[5341.80 --> 5344.42] and again -[5344.42 --> 5346.06] we've seen -[5346.06 --> 5346.98] this in our -[5346.98 --> 5347.56] history -[5347.56 --> 5349.02] as Christians -[5349.02 --> 5350.14] right -[5350.14 --> 5351.18] despite persecution -[5351.18 --> 5352.02] and slander -[5352.02 --> 5353.08] despite poverty -[5353.08 --> 5354.42] early Christians -[5354.42 --> 5355.02] and Christians -[5355.02 --> 5355.76] around the world -[5355.76 --> 5356.44] today still -[5356.44 --> 5357.42] keep sending -[5357.42 --> 5358.12] missionaries -[5358.12 --> 5358.78] keep planting -[5358.78 --> 5359.22] churches -[5359.22 --> 5360.26] keep copying -[5360.26 --> 5360.82] scriptures -[5360.82 --> 5361.56] keep caring -[5361.56 --> 5362.20] for the sick -[5362.20 --> 5363.02] rescuing -[5363.02 --> 5363.56] abandoned -[5363.56 --> 5364.20] children -[5364.20 --> 5365.10] welcoming -[5365.10 --> 5366.06] outsiders -[5366.06 --> 5368.44] in the age -[5368.44 --> 5369.20] of the -[5369.20 --> 5369.98] Philippian -[5369.98 --> 5370.52] church -[5370.52 --> 5371.22] pagan -[5371.22 --> 5372.22] empires -[5372.22 --> 5373.14] or pagan -[5373.14 --> 5373.82] emperors -[5373.82 --> 5375.04] are baffled -[5375.04 --> 5376.12] by Christian -[5376.12 --> 5376.82] generosity -[5376.82 --> 5377.98] and Christian -[5377.98 --> 5378.56] courage -[5378.56 --> 5380.14] it doesn't -[5380.14 --> 5380.66] make sense -[5380.66 --> 5381.12] to them -[5381.12 --> 5382.56] but it's -[5382.56 --> 5382.82] there -[5382.82 --> 5385.86] and so -[5385.86 --> 5386.34] Paul is -[5386.34 --> 5386.82] calling -[5386.82 --> 5387.80] us -[5387.80 --> 5388.92] to a -[5388.92 --> 5389.48] gospel -[5389.48 --> 5390.26] first -[5390.26 --> 5391.04] life -[5391.04 --> 5391.68] together -[5391.68 --> 5394.12] built on -[5394.12 --> 5394.56] unity -[5394.56 --> 5395.20] that keeps -[5395.20 --> 5395.74] the main -[5395.74 --> 5396.10] thing -[5396.10 --> 5396.56] the main -[5396.56 --> 5397.00] thing -[5397.00 --> 5398.62] built on -[5398.62 --> 5399.18] courage -[5399.18 --> 5400.26] that defies -[5400.26 --> 5400.72] fear -[5400.72 --> 5401.46] and opposition -[5401.46 --> 5402.68] and mission -[5402.68 --> 5403.86] that turns -[5403.86 --> 5404.46] outward -[5404.46 --> 5405.86] with sacrificial -[5405.86 --> 5406.86] generosity -[5406.86 --> 5408.10] and witness -[5408.10 --> 5409.32] because the -[5409.32 --> 5410.10] gospel isn't -[5410.10 --> 5410.64] just something -[5410.64 --> 5411.52] we believe -[5411.52 --> 5412.44] in here -[5412.44 --> 5413.22] it's something -[5413.22 --> 5413.98] we live -[5413.98 --> 5414.70] and proclaim -[5414.70 --> 5415.48] together -[5415.48 --> 5416.56] until the -[5416.56 --> 5417.30] day of Christ's -[5417.30 --> 5417.64] return -[5417.64 --> 5421.32] and to be -[5421.32 --> 5421.74] sure -[5421.74 --> 5424.38] this is -[5424.38 --> 5424.96] spiritual -[5424.96 --> 5425.54] warfare -[5425.54 --> 5428.44] but our -[5428.44 --> 5428.98] weapons -[5428.98 --> 5430.18] aren't the -[5430.18 --> 5430.66] weapons of -[5430.66 --> 5431.08] the world -[5431.08 --> 5433.84] our truth -[5433.84 --> 5435.00] isn't -[5435.00 --> 5435.84] told -[5435.84 --> 5436.60] and proclaimed -[5436.60 --> 5437.30] in the same -[5437.30 --> 5438.02] way that the -[5438.02 --> 5438.84] world might -[5438.84 --> 5439.56] do it -[5439.56 --> 5442.18] the gospel -[5442.18 --> 5443.00] itself -[5443.00 --> 5444.30] is offensive -[5444.30 --> 5445.42] to Greeks -[5445.42 --> 5446.28] and a stumbling -[5446.28 --> 5446.68] block -[5446.68 --> 5447.50] to the Jews -[5447.50 --> 5448.00] we read -[5448.00 --> 5448.70] in Corinthians -[5448.70 --> 5449.42] the gospel -[5449.42 --> 5450.76] is already -[5450.76 --> 5451.34] offensive -[5451.34 --> 5452.10] and so -[5452.10 --> 5453.22] our lives -[5453.22 --> 5454.52] should be -[5454.52 --> 5455.12] sweetness -[5455.12 --> 5458.48] let the truth -[5458.48 --> 5459.24] of who Jesus -[5459.24 --> 5459.88] is and what -[5459.88 --> 5460.60] he has done -[5460.60 --> 5461.12] convict -[5461.12 --> 5461.74] hearts -[5461.74 --> 5462.22] and let -[5462.22 --> 5463.74] your life -[5463.74 --> 5465.58] be sweet -[5465.58 --> 5467.58] Paul has -[5467.58 --> 5468.10] called us -[5468.10 --> 5468.56] to live -[5468.56 --> 5469.08] a life -[5469.08 --> 5469.62] worthy -[5469.62 --> 5470.46] of the -[5470.46 --> 5470.86] gospel -[5470.86 --> 5471.12] but -[5471.12 --> 5472.66] lastly -[5472.66 --> 5473.78] let's be -[5473.78 --> 5474.10] clear -[5474.10 --> 5476.00] this -[5476.00 --> 5476.22] isn't -[5476.22 --> 5476.44] about -[5476.44 --> 5476.90] proving -[5476.90 --> 5477.32] our -[5477.32 --> 5477.72] worth -[5477.72 --> 5478.78] to God -[5478.78 --> 5480.18] this -[5480.18 --> 5480.40] isn't -[5480.40 --> 5480.68] about -[5480.68 --> 5481.78] this -[5481.78 --> 5482.12] is -[5482.12 --> 5482.52] about -[5482.52 --> 5483.00] living -[5483.00 --> 5483.70] in a -[5483.70 --> 5484.04] way -[5484.04 --> 5484.36] that -[5484.36 --> 5484.96] fits -[5484.96 --> 5485.86] in a -[5485.86 --> 5485.98] way -[5485.98 --> 5486.18] that -[5486.18 --> 5486.76] lines -[5486.76 --> 5487.16] up -[5487.16 --> 5487.48] in a -[5487.48 --> 5487.62] way -[5487.62 --> 5487.82] that -[5487.82 --> 5488.36] matches -[5488.36 --> 5489.02] the -[5489.02 --> 5489.38] gospel -[5489.38 --> 5489.76] we have -[5489.76 --> 5490.32] received -[5490.32 --> 5491.02] with the -[5491.02 --> 5491.46] Christ -[5491.46 --> 5492.00] who has -[5492.00 --> 5492.40] claimed -[5492.40 --> 5492.74] us -[5492.74 --> 5493.32] as his -[5493.32 --> 5493.72] own -[5493.72 --> 5494.88] right -[5494.88 --> 5495.28] because the -[5495.28 --> 5495.50] heart -[5495.50 --> 5495.66] of -[5495.66 --> 5496.18] Philippians -[5496.18 --> 5496.62] isn't -[5496.62 --> 5497.08] just a -[5497.08 --> 5497.26] set -[5497.26 --> 5497.50] of -[5497.50 --> 5498.08] commands -[5498.08 --> 5498.66] the -[5498.66 --> 5498.90] heart -[5498.90 --> 5499.02] of -[5499.02 --> 5499.10] the -[5499.10 --> 5499.26] book -[5499.26 --> 5499.42] of -[5499.42 --> 5499.90] Philippians -[5499.90 --> 5500.12] the -[5500.12 --> 5500.32] heart -[5500.32 --> 5500.48] of -[5500.48 --> 5500.82] all -[5500.82 --> 5501.00] of -[5501.00 --> 5501.28] scripture -[5501.28 --> 5501.50] the -[5501.50 --> 5501.76] heart -[5501.76 --> 5501.92] of -[5501.92 --> 5502.06] the -[5502.06 --> 5502.40] gospel -[5502.40 --> 5502.58] the -[5502.58 --> 5502.76] heart -[5502.76 --> 5502.86] of -[5502.86 --> 5502.98] a -[5502.98 --> 5503.28] Christian -[5503.28 --> 5504.08] is -[5504.08 --> 5504.62] a -[5504.62 --> 5505.30] person -[5505.30 --> 5507.12] is -[5507.12 --> 5507.52] Christ -[5507.52 --> 5508.12] himself -[5508.12 --> 5512.02] just one -[5512.02 --> 5512.38] chapter -[5512.38 --> 5513.70] later -[5513.70 --> 5515.00] in -[5515.00 --> 5515.50] Philippians -[5515.50 --> 5515.88] 2 -[5515.88 --> 5516.72] Paul -[5516.72 --> 5517.40] sings -[5517.40 --> 5517.98] what -[5517.98 --> 5518.20] many -[5518.20 --> 5518.42] have -[5518.42 --> 5518.78] called -[5518.78 --> 5519.02] the -[5519.02 --> 5519.34] great -[5519.34 --> 5519.68] hymn -[5519.68 --> 5519.92] of -[5519.92 --> 5520.36] Christ -[5520.36 --> 5521.44] and -[5521.44 --> 5521.76] these -[5521.76 --> 5522.12] are -[5522.12 --> 5522.74] perhaps -[5522.74 --> 5523.58] some -[5523.58 --> 5524.00] of my -[5524.00 --> 5524.44] favorite -[5524.44 --> 5524.88] words -[5524.88 --> 5525.46] in all -[5525.46 --> 5526.18] of -[5526.18 --> 5526.54] scripture -[5526.54 --> 5527.98] and so -[5527.98 --> 5528.22] here are -[5528.22 --> 5528.38] these -[5528.38 --> 5528.72] words -[5528.72 --> 5530.56] in your -[5530.56 --> 5531.14] relationships -[5531.14 --> 5531.74] with one -[5531.74 --> 5532.06] another -[5532.06 --> 5532.62] have the -[5532.62 --> 5533.02] same -[5533.02 --> 5533.60] mindset -[5533.60 --> 5533.98] as -[5533.98 --> 5534.38] Christ -[5534.38 --> 5534.86] Jesus -[5534.86 --> 5535.36] and here's -[5535.36 --> 5535.66] the hymn -[5535.66 --> 5536.46] who -[5536.46 --> 5537.86] being in -[5537.86 --> 5538.22] very -[5538.22 --> 5538.80] nature -[5538.80 --> 5539.72] God -[5539.72 --> 5540.20] did not -[5540.20 --> 5540.64] consider -[5540.64 --> 5541.20] equality -[5541.20 --> 5541.94] with God -[5541.94 --> 5542.36] something -[5542.36 --> 5543.04] to be -[5543.04 --> 5543.38] used -[5543.38 --> 5543.68] to his -[5543.68 --> 5544.00] own -[5544.00 --> 5544.52] advantage -[5544.52 --> 5545.16] rather -[5545.16 --> 5545.92] he made -[5545.92 --> 5546.44] himself -[5546.44 --> 5546.96] nothing -[5546.96 --> 5547.84] by taking -[5547.84 --> 5548.14] on the -[5548.14 --> 5548.32] very -[5548.32 --> 5548.80] nature -[5548.80 --> 5549.48] of a -[5549.48 --> 5549.76] servant -[5549.76 --> 5550.18] being -[5550.18 --> 5550.72] made -[5550.72 --> 5551.08] in -[5551.08 --> 5551.64] human -[5551.64 --> 5552.80] likeness -[5552.80 --> 5554.34] and being -[5554.34 --> 5554.74] found -[5554.74 --> 5555.26] in appearance -[5555.26 --> 5555.64] as a -[5555.64 --> 5555.90] man -[5555.90 --> 5556.70] he humbled -[5556.70 --> 5557.36] himself -[5557.36 --> 5558.34] and became -[5558.34 --> 5559.08] obedient -[5559.08 --> 5560.32] to death -[5560.32 --> 5561.04] even -[5561.04 --> 5561.84] death -[5561.84 --> 5562.48] on a -[5562.48 --> 5562.94] cross -[5562.94 --> 5565.48] therefore -[5565.48 --> 5567.90] therefore -[5567.90 --> 5568.56] God -[5568.56 --> 5569.16] exalted -[5569.16 --> 5569.66] him to -[5569.66 --> 5570.12] the highest -[5570.12 --> 5570.56] place -[5570.56 --> 5570.98] and gave -[5570.98 --> 5571.36] him the -[5571.36 --> 5571.62] name -[5571.62 --> 5571.94] that is -[5571.94 --> 5572.24] above -[5572.24 --> 5572.98] every -[5572.98 --> 5573.30] name -[5573.30 --> 5573.68] that at -[5573.68 --> 5573.82] the -[5573.82 --> 5574.08] name -[5574.08 --> 5574.28] of -[5574.28 --> 5574.60] Jesus -[5574.60 --> 5575.00] every -[5575.00 --> 5575.34] knee -[5575.34 --> 5575.74] should -[5575.74 --> 5576.18] bow -[5576.18 --> 5576.66] in -[5576.66 --> 5576.94] heaven -[5576.94 --> 5577.30] and on -[5577.30 --> 5577.54] earth -[5577.54 --> 5578.16] and under -[5578.16 --> 5578.60] the earth -[5578.60 --> 5579.26] and every -[5579.26 --> 5579.74] tongue -[5579.74 --> 5580.52] confess -[5580.52 --> 5581.10] that -[5581.10 --> 5581.60] Jesus -[5581.60 --> 5582.30] Christ -[5582.30 --> 5582.88] is -[5582.88 --> 5583.62] Lord -[5583.62 --> 5584.20] to the -[5584.20 --> 5584.76] glory -[5584.76 --> 5585.72] of God -[5585.72 --> 5586.20] the -[5586.20 --> 5586.64] father -[5586.64 --> 5588.22] amen -[5588.22 --> 5589.78] and amen -[5589.78 --> 5591.34] this -[5591.34 --> 5592.54] person -[5592.54 --> 5593.54] is the -[5593.54 --> 5593.96] center -[5593.96 --> 5594.28] of -[5594.28 --> 5595.12] everything -[5595.12 --> 5595.82] Paul -[5595.82 --> 5596.40] is calling -[5596.40 --> 5596.88] us to -[5596.88 --> 5597.18] be -[5597.18 --> 5597.88] right -[5597.88 --> 5598.24] our -[5598.24 --> 5598.84] unity -[5598.84 --> 5599.96] flows -[5599.96 --> 5600.84] from the -[5600.84 --> 5601.16] one -[5601.16 --> 5601.82] who humbled -[5601.82 --> 5602.34] himself -[5602.34 --> 5603.18] and makes -[5603.18 --> 5603.66] us his -[5603.66 --> 5604.06] body -[5604.06 --> 5605.12] our -[5605.12 --> 5605.90] courage -[5605.90 --> 5606.66] comes -[5606.66 --> 5607.22] from the -[5607.22 --> 5607.54] one -[5607.54 --> 5608.48] who triumphed -[5608.48 --> 5609.14] over sin -[5609.14 --> 5609.86] and death -[5609.86 --> 5610.22] and the -[5610.22 --> 5610.70] grave -[5610.70 --> 5611.26] and now -[5611.26 --> 5611.76] makes -[5611.76 --> 5612.90] and unites -[5612.90 --> 5613.26] us -[5613.26 --> 5613.44] to -[5613.44 --> 5613.88] himself -[5613.88 --> 5614.38] our -[5614.38 --> 5614.92] mission -[5614.92 --> 5615.50] flows -[5615.50 --> 5616.16] from the -[5616.16 --> 5616.54] one -[5616.54 --> 5617.14] who -[5617.14 --> 5617.74] is -[5617.74 --> 5618.24] exalted -[5618.24 --> 5618.68] to the -[5618.68 --> 5619.10] highest -[5619.10 --> 5619.70] place -[5619.70 --> 5620.72] who is -[5620.72 --> 5621.06] Lord -[5621.06 --> 5621.32] over -[5621.32 --> 5621.82] every -[5621.82 --> 5622.34] nation -[5622.34 --> 5623.28] and every -[5623.28 --> 5623.60] name -[5623.60 --> 5624.92] and when -[5624.92 --> 5625.36] we live -[5625.36 --> 5625.98] this way -[5625.98 --> 5626.46] standing -[5626.46 --> 5626.96] firm -[5626.96 --> 5627.62] striving -[5627.62 --> 5628.04] together -[5628.04 --> 5628.78] and unafraid -[5628.78 --> 5629.38] our -[5629.38 --> 5630.08] life -[5630.08 --> 5630.68] becomes -[5630.68 --> 5631.66] a signpost -[5631.66 --> 5632.34] of his -[5632.34 --> 5633.04] kingdom -[5633.04 --> 5633.84] right here -[5633.84 --> 5634.62] and right -[5634.62 --> 5634.96] now -[5634.96 --> 5637.26] again -[5637.26 --> 5637.90] John Owen -[5637.90 --> 5640.02] John Owen -[5640.02 --> 5640.38] wrote -[5640.38 --> 5642.12] 400 years -[5642.12 --> 5642.54] ago -[5642.54 --> 5644.02] holiness -[5644.02 --> 5645.32] is the -[5645.32 --> 5645.66] kingdom -[5645.66 --> 5646.28] of God -[5646.28 --> 5647.10] within us -[5647.10 --> 5648.20] by which -[5648.20 --> 5648.72] it appears -[5648.72 --> 5649.58] to all -[5649.58 --> 5650.14] that we -[5650.14 --> 5650.92] are the -[5650.92 --> 5651.28] children -[5651.28 --> 5652.10] of the -[5652.10 --> 5652.38] kingdom -[5652.38 --> 5654.52] when the -[5654.52 --> 5655.18] church lives -[5655.18 --> 5656.04] worthy of -[5656.04 --> 5656.60] the gospel -[5656.60 --> 5656.98] when our -[5656.98 --> 5657.42] unity -[5657.42 --> 5657.98] courage -[5657.98 --> 5658.50] and mission -[5658.50 --> 5659.24] are shaped -[5659.24 --> 5659.56] by the -[5659.56 --> 5659.92] cross -[5659.92 --> 5660.32] and by the -[5660.32 --> 5660.70] resurrection -[5660.70 --> 5661.22] of Jesus -[5661.22 --> 5662.30] the watching -[5662.30 --> 5662.84] world -[5662.84 --> 5663.68] sees a -[5663.68 --> 5664.06] picture -[5664.06 --> 5664.80] of the -[5664.80 --> 5665.10] kingdom -[5665.10 --> 5665.74] that cannot -[5665.74 --> 5666.48] be ignored -[5666.48 --> 5668.22] and so -[5668.22 --> 5668.72] this year -[5668.72 --> 5669.16] as we -[5669.16 --> 5669.90] launch -[5669.90 --> 5671.26] this year -[5671.26 --> 5671.76] as we -[5671.76 --> 5672.82] go into -[5672.82 --> 5673.50] whatever it -[5673.50 --> 5673.86] is that -[5673.86 --> 5674.28] God is -[5674.28 --> 5675.54] calling us -[5675.54 --> 5676.18] to -[5676.18 --> 5677.98] may your -[5677.98 --> 5678.74] eyes be -[5678.74 --> 5679.24] fixed -[5679.24 --> 5679.90] on -[5679.90 --> 5680.66] Christ -[5680.66 --> 5682.70] and not -[5682.70 --> 5682.82] the -[5682.82 --> 5683.30] distraction -[5683.30 --> 5685.38] may your -[5685.38 --> 5686.44] purpose be -[5686.44 --> 5687.80] filled with -[5687.80 --> 5688.66] declaring and -[5688.66 --> 5689.26] proclaiming the -[5689.26 --> 5689.82] gospel in -[5689.82 --> 5690.48] all that you -[5690.48 --> 5690.86] do -[5690.86 --> 5694.00] and not -[5694.00 --> 5694.40] with lesser -[5694.40 --> 5694.90] things -[5694.90 --> 5698.62] may you -[5698.62 --> 5700.38] whatever -[5700.38 --> 5701.06] happens -[5701.06 --> 5702.50] conduct -[5702.50 --> 5703.28] yourselves in -[5703.28 --> 5703.64] a manner -[5703.64 --> 5704.82] worthy of -[5704.82 --> 5705.40] the gospel -[5705.40 --> 5706.20] of Christ -[5706.20 --> 5708.50] stand firm -[5708.50 --> 5709.06] in the one -[5709.06 --> 5709.60] spirit -[5709.60 --> 5711.12] striving together -[5711.12 --> 5711.66] as one -[5711.66 --> 5712.86] for the faith -[5712.86 --> 5713.54] of the gospel -[5713.54 --> 5714.20] without being -[5714.20 --> 5714.80] frightened in -[5714.80 --> 5715.36] any way -[5715.36 --> 5716.30] by those who -[5716.30 --> 5716.88] oppose you -[5716.88 --> 5718.88] this is our -[5718.88 --> 5719.88] purpose -[5719.88 --> 5721.22] this is our -[5721.22 --> 5722.14] calling -[5722.14 --> 5724.20] this is the -[5724.20 --> 5725.56] life worthy -[5725.56 --> 5726.58] of Christ -[5726.58 --> 5727.36] the life -[5727.36 --> 5729.28] lived with -[5729.28 --> 5730.36] him -[5730.36 --> 5732.12] let's live -[5732.12 --> 5732.84] that life -[5732.84 --> 5734.00] this year -[5734.00 --> 5734.62] together -[5734.62 --> 5735.80] amen -[5735.80 --> 5737.30] let's pray -[5737.30 --> 5745.84] holy spirit -[5745.84 --> 5746.68] we pray -[5746.68 --> 5747.18] for -[5747.18 --> 5748.56] renewed -[5748.56 --> 5749.56] minds -[5749.56 --> 5751.62] transformed -[5751.62 --> 5752.64] imaginations -[5752.64 --> 5754.58] that this -[5754.58 --> 5755.32] morning we -[5755.32 --> 5756.14] might see -[5756.14 --> 5756.94] the ways -[5756.94 --> 5757.26] and the -[5757.26 --> 5757.96] places that -[5757.96 --> 5758.74] are distracting -[5758.74 --> 5759.78] us from -[5759.78 --> 5760.90] you and -[5760.90 --> 5761.46] from your -[5761.46 --> 5761.98] purposes -[5761.98 --> 5763.20] for us -[5763.20 --> 5764.28] that we -[5764.28 --> 5764.82] might see -[5764.82 --> 5765.46] the ways -[5765.46 --> 5766.04] and the places -[5766.04 --> 5766.40] that we -[5766.40 --> 5767.00] have settled -[5767.00 --> 5768.26] for lesser -[5768.26 --> 5769.18] truths -[5769.18 --> 5773.10] that we -[5773.10 --> 5774.02] might see -[5774.02 --> 5774.90] Christ -[5774.90 --> 5775.96] afresh -[5775.96 --> 5776.94] today -[5776.94 --> 5780.44] Lord Jesus -[5780.44 --> 5781.58] make much -[5781.58 --> 5782.46] of yourself -[5782.46 --> 5783.56] among us -[5783.56 --> 5784.64] in our -[5784.64 --> 5785.28] worship -[5785.28 --> 5786.86] in our -[5786.86 --> 5787.72] hearts -[5787.72 --> 5790.72] and as we -[5790.72 --> 5791.30] stand -[5791.30 --> 5792.00] as we -[5792.00 --> 5792.70] sing -[5792.70 --> 5793.92] yet not -[5793.92 --> 5794.36] I -[5794.36 --> 5795.24] but Christ -[5795.24 --> 5796.00] in me -[5796.00 --> 5797.38] may that -[5797.38 --> 5798.20] banner -[5798.20 --> 5799.64] go over -[5799.64 --> 5800.12] us -[5800.12 --> 5801.22] into this -[5801.22 --> 5802.26] next year -[5802.26 --> 5803.98] yet not -[5803.98 --> 5804.58] I but -[5804.58 --> 5805.10] Christ -[5805.10 --> 5805.84] in me -[5805.84 --> 5806.58] for you -[5806.58 --> 5807.82] are worthy -[5807.82 --> 5809.00] of our -[5809.00 --> 5809.96] praise -[5809.96 --> 5812.28] yet not -[5812.28 --> 5812.86] I but -[5812.86 --> 5813.40] Christ -[5813.40 --> 5814.52] in me -[5814.52 --> 5817.34] give us -[5817.34 --> 5817.74] meaning -[5817.74 --> 5818.98] give us -[5818.98 --> 5819.56] purpose -[5819.56 --> 5820.90] give us -[5820.90 --> 5821.46] hope -[5821.46 --> 5823.10] and give -[5823.10 --> 5823.24] us -[5823.24 --> 5823.82] power -[5823.82 --> 5824.78] in Jesus -[5824.78 --> 5825.36] name -[5825.36 --> 5825.96] we pray -[5825.96 --> 5827.30] amen -[5827.30 --> 5828.04] amen -[5828.04 --> 5828.94] amen -[5828.94 --> 5843.98] what gift -[5843.98 --> 5845.66] of grace -[5845.66 --> 5847.02] is Jesus -[5847.02 --> 5849.46] my redeemer -[5849.46 --> 5853.06] there is no more -[5853.06 --> 5854.52] for heaven -[5854.52 --> 5854.56] for heaven -[5854.56 --> 5856.46] now to give -[5856.46 --> 5860.44] he is my joy -[5860.44 --> 5862.22] my righteousness -[5862.22 --> 5864.16] and freedom -[5864.16 --> 5867.74] my steadfast love -[5867.74 --> 5869.70] my deep and -[5869.70 --> 5872.50] boundless peace -[5872.50 --> 5875.56] to this I hold -[5875.56 --> 5876.82] my hope -[5876.82 --> 5876.84] my hope -[5876.84 --> 5877.94] is only -[5877.94 --> 5879.24] Jesus -[5879.24 --> 5883.06] for my life -[5883.06 --> 5884.56] is wholly -[5884.56 --> 5885.68] bound to -[5885.68 --> 5887.70] him -[5887.70 --> 5890.46] oh how strange -[5890.46 --> 5891.56] and divine -[5891.56 --> 5894.06] I can sing -[5894.06 --> 5895.94] all is mine -[5895.94 --> 5897.60] yet not I -[5897.60 --> 5898.62] but through -[5898.62 --> 5899.80] Christ -[5899.80 --> 5901.32] in me -[5901.32 --> 5907.54] the night -[5907.54 --> 5909.28] is dark -[5909.28 --> 5910.74] but I am -[5910.74 --> 5912.80] not forsaken -[5912.80 --> 5915.40] for by my -[5915.40 --> 5916.52] side -[5916.52 --> 5917.84] the Savior -[5917.84 --> 5919.10] he will -[5919.10 --> 5920.12] stay -[5920.12 --> 5922.60] I labor -[5922.60 --> 5924.14] on -[5924.14 --> 5925.42] in weakness -[5925.42 --> 5927.96] and rejoicing -[5927.96 --> 5929.84] for in -[5929.84 --> 5931.40] my need -[5931.40 --> 5932.90] his power -[5932.90 --> 5933.74] is -[5933.74 --> 5934.90] his way -[5934.90 --> 5937.26] to this -[5937.26 --> 5938.82] I hold -[5938.82 --> 5940.20] my shepherd -[5940.20 --> 5941.96] will defend -[5941.96 --> 5943.74] me -[5943.74 --> 5945.20] through the -[5945.20 --> 5947.00] deepest -[5947.00 --> 5947.74] valley -[5947.74 --> 5948.90] he will -[5948.90 --> 5950.52] lead -[5950.52 --> 5952.56] for the -[5952.56 --> 5953.46] night -[5953.46 --> 5954.32] has been -[5954.32 --> 5954.90] won -[5954.90 --> 5956.20] and I -[5956.20 --> 5957.10] shall -[5957.10 --> 5958.16] overcome -[5958.16 --> 5959.98] yet not -[5959.98 --> 5960.56] on -[5960.56 --> 5961.62] but through -[5961.62 --> 5962.68] Christ -[5962.68 --> 5965.06] heal me -[5965.06 --> 5970.22] no fate -[5970.22 --> 5971.22] I dread -[5971.22 --> 5972.90] I know -[5972.90 --> 5973.80] I am -[5973.80 --> 5975.26] forgiven -[5975.26 --> 5977.60] the future -[5977.60 --> 5978.22] sure -[5978.22 --> 5980.14] the price -[5980.14 --> 5981.00] it has -[5981.00 --> 5983.22] been paid -[5983.22 --> 5984.72] for Jesus -[5984.72 --> 5986.10] bled -[5986.10 --> 5987.38] and suffered -[5987.38 --> 5988.60] for my -[5988.60 --> 5989.66] pardon -[5989.66 --> 5991.72] and he -[5991.72 --> 5993.26] was raised -[5993.26 --> 5995.00] to overthrow -[5995.00 --> 5997.10] the grave -[5997.10 --> 5998.86] to this -[5998.86 --> 6000.36] I hold -[6000.36 --> 6001.66] my sin -[6001.66 --> 6002.52] has been -[6002.52 --> 6004.00] defeated -[6004.00 --> 6006.24] Jesus -[6006.24 --> 6007.94] now -[6007.94 --> 6009.26] and ever -[6009.26 --> 6010.24] is my -[6010.24 --> 6011.10] dream -[6011.10 --> 6013.32] oh -[6013.32 --> 6014.62] the chains -[6014.62 --> 6016.04] are released -[6016.04 --> 6017.22] I can -[6017.22 --> 6017.92] sing -[6017.92 --> 6019.06] I am -[6019.06 --> 6019.72] free -[6019.72 --> 6021.00] yet not -[6021.00 --> 6021.56] I -[6021.56 --> 6022.52] but through -[6022.52 --> 6023.64] rise -[6023.64 --> 6026.10] in me -[6026.10 --> 6038.72] with every -[6038.72 --> 6039.98] breath -[6039.98 --> 6041.18] I long -[6041.18 --> 6042.42] to follow -[6042.42 --> 6043.68] Jesus -[6043.68 --> 6045.80] for he -[6045.80 --> 6047.32] has said -[6047.32 --> 6048.48] that he -[6048.48 --> 6049.50] will bring -[6049.50 --> 6050.72] me home -[6050.72 --> 6053.02] and day -[6053.02 --> 6054.42] by day -[6054.42 --> 6055.70] I know -[6055.70 --> 6056.62] he will -[6056.62 --> 6057.74] renew -[6057.74 --> 6058.90] me -[6058.90 --> 6059.90] until -[6059.90 --> 6061.70] I stand -[6061.70 --> 6062.88] with joy -[6062.88 --> 6063.82] before -[6063.82 --> 6065.42] the throne -[6065.42 --> 6067.38] to this -[6067.38 --> 6068.92] I hope -[6068.92 --> 6070.14] my hope -[6070.14 --> 6071.24] is only -[6071.24 --> 6072.52] Jesus -[6072.52 --> 6074.96] all the -[6074.96 --> 6076.42] glory -[6076.42 --> 6077.32] ever -[6077.32 --> 6077.96] born -[6077.96 --> 6079.42] to him -[6079.42 --> 6081.34] when -[6081.34 --> 6081.38] when -[6081.38 --> 6082.76] the race -[6082.76 --> 6084.12] is complete -[6084.12 --> 6084.88] still -[6084.88 --> 6086.02] my lips -[6086.02 --> 6086.78] shall -[6086.78 --> 6087.48] repeat -[6087.48 --> 6088.48] yet -[6088.48 --> 6089.04] not -[6089.04 --> 6089.60] I -[6089.60 --> 6090.26] but -[6090.26 --> 6090.74] through -[6090.74 --> 6091.82] Christ -[6091.82 --> 6094.32] in me -[6094.32 --> 6095.68] to this -[6095.68 --> 6097.20] I hold -[6097.20 --> 6098.50] my hope -[6098.50 --> 6099.64] is only -[6099.64 --> 6100.98] Jesus -[6100.98 --> 6103.58] all the -[6103.58 --> 6105.20] glory -[6105.20 --> 6106.30] ever -[6106.30 --> 6106.86] more -[6106.86 --> 6109.42] to him -[6109.42 --> 6110.60] when -[6110.60 --> 6112.12] the race -[6112.12 --> 6113.54] is complete -[6113.54 --> 6114.36] still -[6114.36 --> 6115.62] my lips -[6115.62 --> 6116.46] shall -[6116.46 --> 6117.36] repeat -[6117.36 --> 6118.32] yet -[6118.32 --> 6118.96] not -[6118.96 --> 6119.62] I -[6119.62 --> 6120.26] but -[6120.26 --> 6120.68] through -[6120.68 --> 6122.20] Christ -[6122.20 --> 6123.78] in me -[6123.78 --> 6126.06] yet -[6126.06 --> 6126.68] not -[6126.68 --> 6127.62] I -[6127.62 --> 6128.12] but -[6128.12 --> 6128.58] through -[6128.58 --> 6130.10] Christ -[6130.10 --> 6131.78] in me -[6131.78 --> 6148.64] together -[6148.64 --> 6149.18] receive -[6149.18 --> 6150.04] the blessing -[6150.04 --> 6150.82] of -[6150.82 --> 6151.50] our -[6151.50 --> 6152.32] God -[6152.32 --> 6154.32] God go -[6154.32 --> 6154.98] before you -[6154.98 --> 6155.88] to lead you -[6155.88 --> 6157.06] God go -[6157.06 --> 6157.78] behind you -[6157.78 --> 6158.66] to protect you -[6158.66 --> 6159.66] God go -[6159.66 --> 6160.28] beneath you -[6160.28 --> 6161.20] to support you -[6161.20 --> 6162.12] and God go -[6162.12 --> 6163.02] beside you -[6163.02 --> 6164.08] to befriend you -[6164.08 --> 6165.28] do not -[6165.28 --> 6166.76] be afraid -[6166.76 --> 6168.02] let the blessing -[6168.02 --> 6169.08] of God come upon you -[6169.08 --> 6169.94] today do not -[6169.94 --> 6170.98] be afraid -[6170.98 --> 6172.00] but go -[6172.00 --> 6173.42] in peace -[6173.42 --> 6174.42] to love -[6174.42 --> 6175.44] and serve -[6175.44 --> 6176.24] the Lord -[6176.24 --> 6177.58] Amen -[6191.20 --> 6202.94] come to the -[6202.94 --> 6204.02] drink of the water -[6204.02 --> 6205.82] come and thirst -[6205.82 --> 6207.08] no more -[6207.08 --> 6211.66] come all you -[6211.66 --> 6212.28] sinners -[6212.28 --> 6213.78] come find his -[6213.78 --> 6214.40] mercy -[6214.40 --> 6215.86] come to the -[6215.86 --> 6216.44] table -[6216.44 --> 6217.26] he will -[6217.26 --> 6218.12] satisfy -[6218.12 --> 6220.10] taste of his -[6220.10 --> 6220.74] goodness -[6220.74 --> 6221.88] find what -[6221.88 --> 6222.18] you're -[6222.18 --> 6224.28] looking for -[6224.28 --> 6227.78] for God -[6227.78 --> 6229.00] so loved -[6229.00 --> 6229.88] the world -[6229.88 --> 6231.00] that he gave -[6231.00 --> 6231.36] us -[6231.36 --> 6232.18] his one -[6232.18 --> 6233.40] and only -[6233.40 --> 6234.16] son -[6234.16 --> 6235.28] to save -[6235.28 --> 6235.60] us -[6235.60 --> 6236.32] whoever -[6236.32 --> 6237.36] believes -[6237.36 --> 6238.24] in him -[6238.24 --> 6239.58] will live -[6239.58 --> 6240.50] forever -[6240.50 --> 6243.38] bring -[6243.38 --> 6244.46] bring -[6244.46 --> 6245.20] all your -[6245.20 --> 6246.06] failures -[6246.06 --> 6246.64] bring -[6246.64 --> 6247.14] your -[6247.14 --> 6248.02] addictions -[6248.02 --> 6249.20] come lay -[6249.20 --> 6249.94] them down -[6249.94 --> 6251.06] at the foot -[6251.06 --> 6252.22] of the cross -[6252.22 --> 6253.16] Jesus -[6253.16 --> 6254.38] is waiting -[6254.38 --> 6255.32] there -[6255.32 --> 6256.76] with open -[6256.76 --> 6258.78] arms -[6258.78 --> 6261.54] for God -[6261.54 --> 6262.70] so loved -[6262.70 --> 6263.68] the world -[6263.68 --> 6264.80] that he gave -[6264.80 --> 6265.14] us -[6265.14 --> 6266.00] his one -[6266.00 --> 6267.14] and only -[6267.14 --> 6267.94] son -[6267.94 --> 6269.02] to save -[6269.02 --> 6269.34] us -[6269.34 --> 6270.08] whoever -[6270.08 --> 6271.16] believes -[6271.16 --> 6272.04] in him -[6272.04 --> 6273.26] will live -[6273.26 --> 6274.16] forever -[6274.16 --> 6276.16] the world -[6276.16 --> 6278.44] the power -[6278.44 --> 6279.42] of hell -[6279.42 --> 6280.48] forever -[6280.48 --> 6281.52] defeated -[6281.52 --> 6283.10] now it is -[6283.10 --> 6283.56] well -[6283.56 --> 6284.66] I'm walking -[6284.66 --> 6285.70] in freedom -[6285.70 --> 6286.62] for God -[6286.62 --> 6287.72] so loved -[6287.72 --> 6288.62] God -[6288.62 --> 6289.78] so loved -[6289.78 --> 6291.06] the world -[6291.06 --> 6294.32] praise -[6294.32 --> 6295.64] God -[6295.64 --> 6296.48] praise -[6296.48 --> 6297.82] God -[6297.82 --> 6299.18] from whom -[6299.18 --> 6300.44] all blessings -[6300.44 --> 6301.30] flow -[6301.30 --> 6302.78] praise -[6302.78 --> 6304.20] him -[6304.20 --> 6304.86] praise -[6304.86 --> 6306.00] him -[6306.00 --> 6306.92] for the -[6306.92 --> 6307.74] wonders -[6307.74 --> 6308.76] of his -[6308.76 --> 6310.02] love -[6310.02 --> 6310.98] praise -[6310.98 --> 6312.48] God -[6312.48 --> 6313.06] praise -[6313.06 --> 6314.34] God -[6314.34 --> 6315.74] from whom -[6315.74 --> 6316.68] all blessings -[6316.68 --> 6317.76] flow -[6317.76 --> 6319.34] praise -[6319.34 --> 6320.72] him -[6320.72 --> 6321.46] praise -[6321.46 --> 6322.70] him -[6322.70 --> 6323.56] for the -[6323.56 --> 6324.40] wonders -[6324.40 --> 6325.34] of his -[6325.34 --> 6327.34] love -[6327.34 --> 6330.08] for God -[6330.08 --> 6331.28] so loved -[6331.28 --> 6332.22] the world -[6332.22 --> 6333.40] that he gave -[6333.40 --> 6333.76] us -[6333.76 --> 6334.56] his one -[6334.56 --> 6335.66] and only -[6335.66 --> 6336.48] son -[6336.48 --> 6337.62] to save -[6337.62 --> 6337.84] us -[6337.84 --> 6338.58] for God -[6338.58 --> 6339.64] so loved -[6339.64 --> 6340.56] the world -[6340.56 --> 6341.66] that he gave -[6341.66 --> 6342.00] us -[6342.00 --> 6342.78] his one -[6342.78 --> 6343.92] and only -[6343.92 --> 6344.72] son -[6344.72 --> 6345.76] to save -[6345.76 --> 6346.06] us -[6346.06 --> 6346.78] whoever -[6346.78 --> 6347.86] believes -[6347.86 --> 6348.70] in him -[6348.70 --> 6349.98] will live -[6349.98 --> 6350.88] forever -[6350.88 --> 6355.18] the power -[6355.18 --> 6356.18] of hell -[6356.18 --> 6357.18] forever -[6357.18 --> 6358.28] defeated -[6358.28 --> 6359.86] now it is -[6359.86 --> 6360.30] well -[6360.30 --> 6361.42] I'm walking -[6361.42 --> 6362.50] in freedom -[6362.50 --> 6363.48] for God -[6363.48 --> 6364.58] so loved -[6364.58 --> 6365.54] God -[6365.54 --> 6366.70] so loved -[6366.70 --> 6368.06] the world -[6368.06 --> 6372.40] bring all -[6372.40 --> 6373.46] your failures -[6373.46 --> 6374.78] bring your -[6374.78 --> 6375.72] addictions -[6375.72 --> 6377.30] come lay them -[6377.30 --> 6378.48] down at the -[6378.48 --> 6379.60] foot of the -[6379.60 --> 6380.24] cross -[6380.24 --> 6381.98] Jesus is -[6381.98 --> 6382.84] waiting -[6382.84 --> 6383.68] God -[6383.68 --> 6385.24] so loved -[6385.24 --> 6397.78] the world -[6397.78 --> 6427.76] Thank you. -[6427.78 --> 6457.76] Thank you. -[6457.78 --> 6487.76] Thank you. -[6487.78 --> 6517.76] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, September 28, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, September 28, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d47b708f42a70a9c77de488c37fdd3f82d3b4842..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, September 28, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,115 +0,0 @@ -• Repeating the phrase "Thank you" throughout the transcript, with occasional interruptions and variations in tone -• Recitation of a hymn or prayer-like text, emphasizing devotion to Jesus and surrendering one's life to Him -• Expressions of love and gratitude towards Jesus, including references to His sacrifice on Calvary's tree -• A song or poem is sung with repeated phrases "I'll ever adore thee" and "Amen" -• The King's University is mentioned, located in Edmonton, offering a Christian liberal arts education -• Various quotes from the air I breathe song by Hillsong United are sung -• A children's worship segment is announced for kids aged 3-4, called Kids Corner -• A question about having a "backwards day" where things are done in reverse order is asked and discussed -• The speaker discusses living backwards on Earth because knowing the end helps us live our lives differently. -• Moving to children's worship time to explain what "living backwards" means. -• Eric gives updates from council meetings: - + Letter of call to Pastor Kevin approved - + Delegates selected for classes at Fleetwood - + Update from Pastor Chris, Pastor Kevin, and Josh - + Board of Stewarts update on sanctuary improvements - + Request for volunteers to help with painting classrooms -• Dave leads church family prayer, thanking God for the church community and praying for various needs and concerns. -• Prayers for students and educators returning to school -• Updates on personal health issues (Rachel DeWinter, Heather Varsstra, John Kuypers, Tessa, Judy Dykstra, Ellen White) -• Pastor Chris leading a study of Ecclesiastes -• Reflections on the growing movement of Gen Z Christians in Canada -• Discussion of how to offer meaningful and purposeful spirituality in an age where meaning is "up for grabs" -• Introduction to a new series on the book of Ecclesiastes -• The wise words are like goads and collected sayings -• Warning against excessive reading and study -• The goal of life is to fear God and keep his commandments -• Deeds will be brought into judgment, including hidden things -• A critique of modern society's focus on individualism and self-discovery -• The emphasis on progress and technology as solutions to life's problems -• The pursuit of comfort and happiness as the primary goal of life -• The idea that God is optional in modern culture -• The speaker discusses how promises of control and meaning can fail in difficult times. -• The book of Ecclesiastes offers a message for people struggling to find meaning in life. -• The book encourages readers to pursue genuine wisdom by acknowledging God as creator. -• It teaches that the only way to live wisely is to consider one's mortality and the reality of judgment. -• The speaker suggests starting with the end of the book, which reflects on the futility of human pursuits and the importance of living in light of eternity. -• The title of the book is discussed, comparing Hebrew (Kohelet) to Greek (Ecclesiastes) -• Martin Luther's translation of Kohelet as "preacher" and other translations are mentioned -• The book Ecclesiastes is described as a teacher showing life when faced with reality honestly -• The author, Dave Gibson, mentions that Ecclesiastes helps us live in the real world and will take readers on a roller coaster ride through life's experiences -• The concept of "meaninglessness" in the book Ecclesiastes -• The tension between nihilism and a persistent belief in a good God and creation -• The struggle to find meaning when experience challenges one's beliefs about life -• The idea that even questioning the point of existence assumes there should be a point -• How the book Ecclesiastes addresses these themes in its message -• The book of Ecclesiastes is a project of de-centering, challenging assumptions about how the world works and what is true, good, and beautiful. -• Removing oneself from the center of one's own little worlds as arbiter of truth and re-centering God as the ultimate source of truth, goodness, and beauty. -• The book's main message is that the end goal of human existence is not progress or self-fulfillment but rather living in accordance with God's purpose. -• This perspective cuts through noise and distractions to reveal what truly makes sense of one's life journey. -• Life is an enigma and can be fragile, fleeting, and mysterious. -• God's word both delights and corrects us in life's journey. -• Our proper response to life is to fear God and keep His commands. -• The decisive reality that makes all of this urgent is the truth of death and judgment in the face of Christ's return. -• Discussion of Ecclesiastes as a book that explores the meaninglessness of life -• Analysis of the word "meaningless" in Ecclesiastes, with different translations and interpretations discussed -• Comparison to other biblical texts, such as Psalm 39 and Proverbs 31:30 -• Exploration of the theme of elusiveness and fleeting nature of life and meaning -• Difficulty in finding meaning and purpose in life -• Concept of vanity (Havel) and its relation to the human condition -• Connection between Ecclesiastes, the church, and Martin Luther's reforms -• The role of emotions, desires, and wayward appetites in creating meaninglessness -• Challenges in seeing the meaning of things due to constant change -• Fleeting nature of life and meaning -• Difficulty in grasping the meaning of life -• Contrast between God's unchanging nature and human hearts that chase after transitory things -• The enigmatic nature of life and its meaning -• Importance of God's word as beautiful and true -• The speaker reflects on the beauty and goodness of God's words -• A painful analogy is used to explain how God's words can be like goads, piercing and causing temporary pain to steer us back towards the right path -• This principle is applied to understand why the Bible can sometimes be difficult or hurtful to read -• The speaker acknowledges that even if the word of God cuts us, it is ultimately done for our protection -• The concept of "better are the wounds of a friend" from Proverbs is used to explain how God's words can be like a painful but necessary correction -• The temptation is to change the meaning of God's word to fit our own desires -• Instead, we should allow the Bible to change our understanding and interpretation -• We often try to domesticate or change the Bible to make it fit with our world view -• The teacher in Ecclesiastes warns against domesticating one's Bible and instead encourages living in God's world -• True beauty is found by moving towards the heart of God and living in his truth -• Verse 13 emphasizes the importance of fearing God and keeping His commandments as the duty of all mankind. -• The definition of being human -• The Westminster Catechism's summary of the chief end of man -• Glorifying God and enjoying him together as one's purpose in life -• Persisting in fear and obedience to God even when life appears meaningless or overwhelming -• The heart and imagination clinging to truth despite external denial -• The relationship between God and the individual is central to everything -• Fearing and obeying God should be the foundation of all actions and decisions -• Modern thinking often puts self at the center, rather than God -• De-centering oneself and making God the center leads to becoming one's true self -• Death and judgment are certain, so living with this understanding is crucial -• The speaker shares a recurring dream they have about being in a church service where they're supposed to lead, but are unprepared and anxious. -• The speaker suggests that many people in the world today are living in denial or avoidance of reality, ignoring the truth about death and judgment. -• The Bible is used as a reference, with quotes from Ecclesiastes highlighting the importance of being prepared for the most important event of life (death and judgment). -• The message emphasizes that there is no fear for Christians when facing this reality because of who Jesus is and what he has done. -• Ecclesiastes referenced -• Meaninglessness of life's toil -• Apostle Paul's teachings in Philippians 1:21 -• Laboring in the Lord for eternal reward -• Jesus' death and resurrection as redemption -• Hope in darkness through faith -• Overcoming despair with hope in God's sovereignty -• Living with purpose and receiving life as a gift -• Praying for guidance and redemption -• Acknowledging Jesus as the source of eternal life -• Inviting congregation to stand with them -• Singing hymns, including "Let Me Hide Myself in Thee" and "Rock of Ages" -• Discussing meaninglessness and vanities in everyday life -• Emphasizing God's presence and blessing in daily life -• Announcing upcoming fellowship and care groups -• Offering prayers for protection and guidance throughout the week -• Declaration of the king's reign over all kings and lords -• The earth responds with praise and worship -• The lamb is hailed as a ruler who was once a slave -• The king's power and authority are acknowledged -• References to Jesus Christ and drawing near -• Confession and drawing/going in relation to the king -• Multiple instances of "Amen" \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, September 28, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, September 28, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index e2bbbbeeb46a7af50534b9abcae63811581eb4b9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, September 28, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2322 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 599.98] Thank you. -[600.00 --> 629.98] Thank you. -[630.00 --> 659.98] Thank you. -[660.00 --> 689.98] Thank you. -[690.00 --> 719.98] Thank you. -[720.00 --> 749.98] Thank you. -[749.98 --> 779.96] Thank you. -[779.98 --> 809.96] Thank you. -[809.98 --> 839.96] Thank you. -[839.98 --> 869.98] Thank you. -[869.98 --> 899.96] Thank you. -[899.98 --> 929.96] Thank you. -[929.98 --> 930.00] -[959.98 --> 989.98] Thank you. -[989.98 --> 1019.98] Thank you. -[1019.98 --> 1049.96] Thank you. -[1049.98 --> 1050.98] Thank you. -[1079.98 --> 1109.96] Thank you. -[1109.96 --> 1139.94] Thank you. -[1139.94 --> 1169.92] Thank you. -[1169.92 --> 1199.90] Thank you. -[1199.92 --> 1229.90] Thank you. -[1229.92 --> 1259.92] Be to our God. -[1259.92 --> 1289.92] Thank you. -[1289.92 --> 1319.90] Thank you. -[1319.90 --> 1349.88] Thank you. -[1349.90 --> 1379.90] Jesus. -[1379.90 --> 1409.88] Thank you. -[1409.90 --> 1439.88] living in us. -[1439.88 --> 1469.86] Lord, we believe. -[1469.86 --> 1499.84] He's, you know, -[1499.86 --> 1529.84] if I look at you, -[1529.84 --> 1559.82] Father, -[1559.82 --> 1589.80] may you, you know, -[1589.80 --> 1619.78] Jesus, be the center, -[1619.78 --> 1649.76] Be my hope, be my hope. -[1649.76 --> 1652.24] Jesus -[1652.24 --> 1658.70] Jesus -[1658.70 --> 1660.58] Jesus -[1660.58 --> 1663.66] Be my vision -[1663.66 --> 1668.36] Be my path -[1668.36 --> 1670.40] Be my God -[1670.40 --> 1671.96] Jesus -[1671.96 --> 1677.76] Be the fire -[1677.76 --> 1679.76] In my heart -[1680.40 --> 1681.76] Be the wind -[1683.38 --> 1685.34] In these sails -[1685.34 --> 1687.50] Be the reason -[1687.50 --> 1690.18] That I live -[1690.18 --> 1691.76] Jesus -[1691.76 --> 1693.76] Jesus -[1693.76 --> 1695.76] Jesus -[1696.80 --> 1699.76] Jesus -[1700.84 --> 1703.76] Be the -[1703.76 --> 1705.76] Santa -[1705.76 --> 1709.76] Be my source -[1711.44 --> 1712.76] Be my life -[1713.88 --> 1715.76] Jesus -[1715.76 --> 1717.76] Jesus -[1717.76 --> 1727.76] My Jesus -[1727.76 --> 1729.76] I love thee -[1729.76 --> 1731.76] I know -[1731.76 --> 1733.76] Thou art my life -[1733.76 --> 1735.76] For thee -[1735.76 --> 1755.76] For thee all the fall is of sin -[1755.76 --> 1757.76] I resign -[1757.76 --> 1759.76] I resign -[1759.76 --> 1761.76] My gracious -[1761.76 --> 1763.76] Redeemer -[1763.76 --> 1765.76] My Savior -[1765.76 --> 1767.76] Savior -[1767.76 --> 1768.76] Art thou -[1768.76 --> 1771.76] If ever -[1771.76 --> 1773.76] I love thee -[1773.76 --> 1775.76] My Jesus -[1775.76 --> 1777.76] Tis now -[1777.76 --> 1779.76] I love thee -[1779.76 --> 1785.76] I love thee -[1785.76 --> 1787.76] Because -[1787.76 --> 1789.76] Thou hast first -[1789.76 --> 1791.76] Loved me -[1791.76 --> 1797.76] And purchased my pardon -[1797.76 --> 1801.76] On Calvary's tree -[1801.76 --> 1803.76] I love thee -[1803.76 --> 1805.76] I love thee -[1805.76 --> 1807.76] For wearing -[1807.76 --> 1809.76] The thorns -[1809.76 --> 1811.76] On thy brow -[1811.76 --> 1813.76] If ever -[1813.76 --> 1815.76] I love thee -[1815.76 --> 1817.76] I love thee -[1817.76 --> 1819.76] My Jesus -[1819.76 --> 1821.76] Tis -[1821.76 --> 1823.76] Now -[1823.76 --> 1825.76] I love thee -[1825.76 --> 1827.76] In life -[1827.76 --> 1829.76] I will love thee -[1829.76 --> 1831.76] In life -[1831.76 --> 1833.76] I will love thee -[1833.76 --> 1835.76] In death -[1835.76 --> 1839.76] And praise thee -[1839.76 --> 1845.76] As long as thou lendest me breath -[1845.76 --> 1847.76] And say -[1847.76 --> 1849.76] And say -[1849.76 --> 1851.76] When the death -[1851.76 --> 1853.76] Doe lies -[1853.76 --> 1854.76] Cold -[1854.76 --> 1855.76] On my brow -[1855.76 --> 1859.76] If ever -[1859.76 --> 1861.76] I love thee -[1861.76 --> 1863.76] My Jesus -[1863.76 --> 1865.76] Tis now -[1865.76 --> 1867.76] In -[1867.76 --> 1869.76] Mansions -[1869.76 --> 1871.76] of the -[1871.76 --> 1873.76] In -[1873.76 --> 1874.76] Mansions -[1874.76 --> 1875.76] Of -[1875.76 --> 1876.76] glory -[1876.76 --> 1877.76] And -[1877.76 --> 1879.76] Endless -[1879.76 --> 1881.76] Delight -[1881.76 --> 1883.76] I'll -[1883.76 --> 1884.76] Ever -[1884.76 --> 1885.76] Adore -[1885.76 --> 1886.76] Thee -[1886.76 --> 1888.76] In -[1888.76 --> 1889.76] Heaven -[1889.76 --> 1890.76] So -[1890.76 --> 1891.76] Bright -[1891.76 --> 1893.76] I'll -[1893.76 --> 1894.76] Sing -[1894.76 --> 1895.76] With -[1895.76 --> 1896.76] The -[1896.76 --> 1897.76] Glittering -[1897.76 --> 1898.76] Ground -[1898.76 --> 1900.76] On -[1900.76 --> 1901.76] My brow -[1901.76 --> 1903.76] If -[1903.76 --> 1904.76] Ever -[1904.76 --> 1905.76] I -[1905.76 --> 1906.76] Love thee -[1906.76 --> 1907.76] My -[1907.76 --> 1908.76] Jesus -[1908.76 --> 1910.76] Tis -[1910.76 --> 1911.76] Now -[1911.76 --> 1912.76] Amen -[1912.76 --> 1913.76] Amen -[1913.76 --> 1914.76] Amen -[1914.76 --> 1915.76] Amen -[1915.76 --> 1916.76] Amen -[1916.76 --> 1917.76] Amen -[1917.76 --> 1918.76] Amen -[1918.76 --> 1919.76] Amen -[1919.76 --> 1920.76] Amen -[1920.76 --> 1921.76] Amen -[1921.76 --> 1922.76] Amen -[1922.76 --> 1923.76] Amen -[1923.76 --> 1924.76] Amen -[1924.76 --> 1925.76] Amen -[1925.76 --> 1926.76] Amen -[1926.76 --> 1927.76] Amen -[1927.76 --> 1928.76] Amen -[1928.76 --> 1929.76] Amen -[1929.76 --> 1930.74] Amen -[1930.76 --> 1933.76] Millen -[1933.76 --> 1938.76] Amen -[1938.76 --> 1946.20] Thee -[1946.20 --> 1946.90] ッ -[1960.76 --> 1967.20] Located in Edmonton, the King's University offers exceptional liberal arts education -[1967.20 --> 1974.50] from a Christian perspective and serves students from across Canada and from around the world. -[1974.50 --> 1977.64] For more information, you can check out their website. -[1977.64 --> 1980.60] They're either on your computer or on your phone. -[1980.60 --> 1986.10] There is a link in our online bulletin this morning. -[1986.10 --> 1992.60] And please give as the Lord has blessed you for this Christian organization. -[1992.60 --> 1993.60] Thanks. -[2016.10 --> 2035.10] This is the air I breathe. -[2035.10 --> 2042.60] This is the air I breathe. -[2042.60 --> 2054.60] Your holy presence living in me. -[2054.60 --> 2062.10] This is my daily bread. -[2062.10 --> 2069.60] This is my daily bread. -[2069.60 --> 2081.60] Your very word spoken to me. -[2081.60 --> 2092.10] And I, I'm desperate for you. -[2092.10 --> 2106.10] And I, I'm lost without you. -[2106.10 --> 2125.60] This is the air I breathe. -[2125.60 --> 2133.10] This is the air I breathe. -[2133.10 --> 2144.10] Your holy presence living in me. -[2144.10 --> 2152.60] This is my daily bread. -[2152.60 --> 2158.60] This is my daily bread. -[2158.60 --> 2160.10] This is my daily bread. -[2160.10 --> 2161.10] This is my daily bread. -[2161.10 --> 2162.10] This is my daily bread. -[2162.10 --> 2165.10] I'm desperate for you. -[2165.10 --> 2169.60] You're very well spoken to me. -[2169.60 --> 2184.10] And I, I'm desperate for you. -[2184.10 --> 2191.10] I'm lost without you. -[2194.10 --> 2202.10] And I'm desperate for you. -[2202.10 --> 2214.10] And I'm lost without you. -[2214.10 --> 2227.10] And I'm lost without you. -[2227.10 --> 2233.10] You are the air I breathe. -[2233.10 --> 2239.10] You are the air. -[2248.10 --> 2249.10] Good morning, kids. -[2249.10 --> 2251.10] If you are age three up into grade four, -[2251.10 --> 2254.10] I'd like to invite you to come join me up at front here -[2254.10 --> 2256.10] for Kids Corner. -[2256.10 --> 2259.10] And then we'll continue learning more in children's worship time -[2259.10 --> 2260.10] when we're finished. -[2260.10 --> 2273.10] Okay, here's my question for you today. -[2273.10 --> 2277.10] I'm wondering if anyone has ever had a backwards day, -[2277.10 --> 2279.10] like at school or at home, -[2279.10 --> 2282.10] where you kind of did things in the opposite way of normal. -[2282.10 --> 2283.10] Have you ever done that? -[2283.10 --> 2286.10] No? Nobody's done that before? -[2286.10 --> 2287.10] Oh, Ruby's done it before. -[2287.10 --> 2289.10] I know that we've done that at our school. -[2289.10 --> 2291.10] Can you think with me, if we were having a backwards day, -[2291.10 --> 2293.10] what would we do first? -[2293.10 --> 2296.10] Like we would get up, we'd have to get up, I guess. -[2296.10 --> 2299.10] So we'd get up our bed and then maybe we'd have to do what? -[2299.10 --> 2303.10] Yeah, we'd have to maybe eat dinner or put our pajamas on. -[2303.10 --> 2305.10] And then we'd have to eat dinner. -[2305.10 --> 2307.10] And then what might we do after we eat dinner? -[2307.10 --> 2312.10] Yeah, we'd have to go back to sleep in the morning. -[2312.10 --> 2313.10] You're right. That would be the opposite. -[2313.10 --> 2318.10] Then we might have to go to our soccer or dance or gymnastics -[2318.10 --> 2319.10] or piano lesson. -[2319.10 --> 2324.10] And then we'd have to have some lunch and then go to school, I guess, -[2324.10 --> 2327.10] and then have breakfast and then go back to bed. -[2327.10 --> 2329.10] It would be kind of an interesting day, right? -[2329.10 --> 2331.10] If we lived our whole day backwards. -[2331.10 --> 2335.10] Some things in our life are pretty tricky if we try to do them backwards. -[2335.10 --> 2340.10] But today, what we're going to learn about is how we can live backwards here on Earth. -[2340.10 --> 2343.10] Because we know that God is going to come back, -[2343.10 --> 2346.10] that Jesus is coming back and that we get to live with him in heaven. -[2346.10 --> 2351.10] And when we already know the ending, that helps us to live backwards on Earth. -[2351.10 --> 2353.10] And if that sounds a little bit strange, that's okay. -[2353.10 --> 2356.10] Because that's why we're going to go to children's worship time -[2356.10 --> 2358.10] and figure out what I mean by that. -[2358.10 --> 2360.10] So you can stand up. -[2360.10 --> 2361.10] We'll do our blessing. -[2361.10 --> 2364.10] And then we'll head off to children's worship. -[2364.10 --> 2365.10] We'll head off to children's worship. -[2365.10 --> 2366.10] We'll head off to children's worship. -[2394.10 --> 2399.10] Hi, I'm Eric, an elder here at Emanuel. -[2399.10 --> 2404.10] I'm here to give our council updates and notes from this past week. -[2404.10 --> 2408.10] This week council approved the letter of call to Pastor Kevin. -[2408.10 --> 2415.10] We selected delegates to classes to be held on October 21st and 22nd at Fleetwood. -[2415.10 --> 2419.34] We received our update from Pastor Chris, Pastor Kevin and Josh. -[2419.98 --> 2426.66] We also had an update from us, from myself here at Board of Stewarts, just highlighting the sanctuary improvements. -[2426.80 --> 2427.78] They've nearly been completed. -[2427.88 --> 2433.76] A little bit of finishing touches to be done on the inside with all the mold and rot removed from both inside and outside. -[2437.08 --> 2442.10] In following down the road, we will be concentrating on finishing the patchwork outside, -[2442.10 --> 2447.44] but also potentially painting the outside of our sanctuary to get rid of the graffiti and update that as well. -[2447.54 --> 2454.76] But on that note, from a deacon, not deacon, but from a Board of Stewarts, we started to update some of the classrooms. -[2455.84 --> 2459.12] By that, I mean we've been doing some repair work and getting painting done. -[2459.56 --> 2461.58] I don't mind painting, but I don't love painting. -[2461.72 --> 2469.74] So I'm looking for anyone who's willing to help out in the evenings or on weekends just to start tackling a couple of the hallways and classrooms. -[2469.74 --> 2477.08] So if anyone wants to touch base with me and is willing to help out in doing some of the maintenance, helping with painting, that would be greatly appreciated. -[2477.94 --> 2486.12] Also, this time of year, the Church and Finance Committee, it's our budget presentation season again. -[2486.94 --> 2496.10] So in our e-bulletins, there's also copies in the office, but we would love to see some of those ministries next year's budgets to be filled out for October 10th. -[2496.10 --> 2499.76] And if there's any further questions, contact Marilyn in the office. -[2500.30 --> 2500.88] Thank you. -[2506.22 --> 2506.78] Thank you. -[2514.78 --> 2515.42] Good morning. -[2515.52 --> 2516.22] My name is Dave. -[2516.22 --> 2522.70] I am one of the elders that serves this church community, and it is my turn to lead in our church family prayer. -[2523.06 --> 2524.06] Will you pray with me? -[2526.10 --> 2529.98] Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. -[2530.18 --> 2531.64] Worship the Lord with gladness. -[2532.18 --> 2534.24] Come before him with joyful songs. -[2534.78 --> 2539.88] Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise, and give thanks to him and praise his name. -[2540.80 --> 2544.40] Father, once again, we celebrate this Sunday, this Lord's Day. -[2544.90 --> 2551.26] We are members of the church universal and this Christian community, so we gather to give thanks to you and praise your name. -[2551.26 --> 2559.80] Father, once again, we see the need to confess our sins to you, both in our personal lives and how we interact with others. -[2560.60 --> 2561.90] We are sinful people. -[2561.90 --> 2569.20] It is because of human sin and human rebellion that we need to be reconciled to you and that Jesus needed to come down. -[2569.20 --> 2580.04] In particular, as Canadians take part in the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we see the great harm that was done in residential schools by our nation and various churches. -[2580.54 --> 2584.76] A policy that led to loss of heritage, loss of identity, and loss of life. -[2584.76 --> 2596.32] Because the injustice was carried out by elected governments from both parties, under 20 prime ministers, and in the name of all Canadians, then all Canadians need to be part of the solution. -[2597.04 --> 2600.56] Father, we look to the love and sacrifice of Jesus to guide us. -[2600.98 --> 2602.74] As Paul tells the church in Ephesus, -[2602.74 --> 2624.46] Father, once again, we come to you because we have many reasons to be thankful. -[2624.88 --> 2627.86] We thank you for the changing seasons and the beginning of fall. -[2627.86 --> 2633.34] It is an opportunity for all of us to spend some time outdoors and to experience the beauty of your creation. -[2634.42 --> 2637.74] We thank you for this church family and everyone who has gathered here. -[2638.06 --> 2640.16] We thank you for the leadership of this church. -[2640.88 --> 2644.06] Pastor Chris, Pastor Kevin, Josh, the members of the council. -[2644.54 --> 2648.92] We thank you for the many ministries of this church that have returned after a summer hiatus. -[2650.16 --> 2652.52] Bless these ministries and the work that they do. -[2652.96 --> 2656.24] May they meet the spiritual and physical needs that we see around us. -[2656.24 --> 2662.14] Father, once again, we think of the joys and needs that we have as a Christian community. -[2662.78 --> 2664.60] We think about the needs of the world. -[2665.12 --> 2669.24] We pray again for the conflicts in Ukraine and Russia, in Israel and Gaza, -[2669.50 --> 2672.48] and we fear the possibility that either one could escalate. -[2673.32 --> 2676.68] But those are just the conflicts that we see so often in the news. -[2676.68 --> 2682.48] It is easy not to notice conflicts in Sudan, Myanmar, Somalia, Yemen, and other places. -[2682.48 --> 2687.88] We pray for all leaders that they may see the value of living next to each other as neighbors -[2687.88 --> 2692.00] and use that as a basis for achieving a meaningful and lasting peace. -[2693.24 --> 2696.06] Father, once again, we think about the needs of this congregation. -[2696.90 --> 2700.94] We pray for all the students and educators who have returned to grade school and post-secondary. -[2700.94 --> 2706.06] We pray that after a positive start, they may have a great year of learning about themselves, -[2706.48 --> 2708.96] their place in the world, and their relationship with you. -[2709.84 --> 2713.24] We thank you that Rachel DeWinter's gallbladder surgery was successful. -[2713.86 --> 2716.52] We pray for a smooth and speedy recovery at home. -[2717.26 --> 2722.18] We pray for Heather Varsstra as she is recovering at home from an asthma flare-up. -[2722.52 --> 2725.48] We pray for patience and healing as she continues to rest, -[2725.66 --> 2727.90] and we trust in your continued care over her. -[2727.90 --> 2732.78] We pray again for John Kuypers, who is waiting for a biopsy to give him clarity -[2732.78 --> 2735.66] on what has been a long road to a proper diagnosis. -[2736.42 --> 2738.12] We pray for a speedy diagnosis. -[2738.72 --> 2741.34] We pray that you will ease any anxiety and uncertainty, -[2741.96 --> 2745.90] that you will bless the procedure, and that it will lead to a full restoration of his health. -[2746.88 --> 2751.44] We thank you that Tessa has learned that her lymphoma is still in remission. -[2751.94 --> 2753.80] We do pray for the spot on her colon, -[2753.80 --> 2756.46] and are grateful that this new cancer was caught early, -[2756.90 --> 2759.40] and appears to be operable with high hopes of success. -[2760.12 --> 2763.22] We pray that she will experience your peace as she waits for surgery. -[2764.48 --> 2768.12] We pray for Judy Dykstra, who had surgery to remove kidney stones, -[2768.56 --> 2769.74] and has returned home. -[2770.08 --> 2773.44] We pray for a quick recovery and a full restoration of her health. -[2773.44 --> 2777.66] We pray for Ellen White, who has received some cortisone shots in her knees, -[2778.10 --> 2781.38] and is anticipating another surgery on her hip in a couple of months. -[2781.88 --> 2786.62] We pray for a successful treatment, and that she can feel your peace in tangible ways. -[2787.48 --> 2792.28] And Father, once again, we pray for Pastor Chris as he leads a study of your word, -[2792.62 --> 2794.84] as revealed to the teacher in Ecclesiastes. -[2794.84 --> 2804.64] Father, we pray for the Lord is good, and his love endures forever. -[2805.08 --> 2807.52] His faithfulness continues through all generations. -[2808.68 --> 2809.00] Amen. -[2824.84 --> 2833.42] In addition to all the many things that are going on around here, -[2833.70 --> 2838.70] this past week, a small group of us gathered together on Thursday night for prayer. -[2839.96 --> 2843.24] And one of the things that we prayed for, -[2843.42 --> 2846.66] and circumstances, situations that we prayed over, -[2847.32 --> 2851.66] was for the life of this church, the ministry of this church, -[2851.66 --> 2854.66] and discipleship that has been happening here. -[2854.84 --> 2859.94] Especially, the prayer went among young people. -[2861.28 --> 2866.26] I don't know if you've seen it, but I have made mention of it previously as well. -[2866.76 --> 2874.16] Even one of the mainstream media channels, news stations, -[2875.10 --> 2876.78] that I sometimes listen to, -[2876.78 --> 2878.54] this past weekend, -[2878.54 --> 2886.48] had a report on the burgeoning movement of Gen Z Christians. -[2887.38 --> 2893.30] So the fastest growing religious demographic in Canada is Gen Z, -[2893.64 --> 2896.96] is the 20 to sort of 25 year olds right now. -[2896.96 --> 2900.32] And so we prayed into that, and we wondered, -[2900.44 --> 2903.54] what does that look like in an age such as ours, -[2903.74 --> 2907.02] an age where what meaning is, and how we find meaning, -[2907.10 --> 2908.06] and how we find purpose, -[2908.58 --> 2909.94] is up for grabs? -[2910.60 --> 2916.40] How can we offer something as a church that is firm and solid, -[2916.40 --> 2918.98] that is fixed in the truth, -[2918.98 --> 2927.98] but is shapeable, malleable enough to face whatever circumstance you might be standing in, -[2928.32 --> 2932.48] or walking in, or whatever hardship you might be sitting in the midst of? -[2932.48 --> 2939.48] Providentially, at the same time as we were praying that, -[2939.64 --> 2942.20] and as we were hearing these news reports, -[2942.64 --> 2947.30] we had planned to do a series in the book of Ecclesiastes. -[2948.44 --> 2952.38] Now, if you've been around the church for a while, for a lifetime, -[2953.06 --> 2956.14] Ecclesiastes is one of the most, -[2956.36 --> 2957.68] and I'm going to use this word intentionally, -[2958.22 --> 2961.08] enigmatic books in the Bible. -[2961.08 --> 2969.02] It's a wisdom literature book that sometimes is really strange and hard to read, -[2969.44 --> 2973.52] and it's our hope and my intent to help us see -[2973.52 --> 2978.92] how Ecclesiastes is exactly the word from God we need -[2978.92 --> 2982.48] in this particular cultural moment and circumstance. -[2984.00 --> 2988.00] To do that, we're going to start at the end. -[2988.00 --> 2992.22] Now, that will become clear as we go through as to why, -[2992.66 --> 2995.52] but I'm going to read from Ecclesiastes 12, -[2996.48 --> 2997.78] starting at verse 8, -[2998.10 --> 3001.36] through to the end of the book, which is verse 14, -[3002.48 --> 3006.54] and we'll dig in to that as we go, -[3006.68 --> 3009.38] and I hope it will become clear why we start at the end -[3009.38 --> 3012.64] in order to see how that impacts the beginning. -[3012.64 --> 3014.60] Let's read together. -[3017.00 --> 3020.44] Meaningless, meaningless, says the teacher. -[3021.34 --> 3023.74] Everything is meaningless. -[3026.74 --> 3029.26] Not only was the teacher wise, -[3029.78 --> 3032.26] but he also imparted knowledge to the people. -[3033.42 --> 3037.74] He pondered and searched out and set in order many proverbs. -[3037.74 --> 3042.64] The teacher searched to find just the right words, -[3042.92 --> 3045.94] and what he wrote was upright and true. -[3047.02 --> 3049.74] The words of the wise are like goads. -[3050.68 --> 3054.16] They're collected sayings like firmly embedded nails -[3054.16 --> 3056.52] given by one shepherd. -[3057.48 --> 3061.20] Be warned, my son, of anything in addition to them. -[3061.20 --> 3065.02] Of making many books there is no end, -[3065.18 --> 3067.18] and much study wearies the body. -[3069.00 --> 3070.52] Now all has been heard. -[3071.24 --> 3073.78] Here is the conclusion of the matter. -[3075.24 --> 3077.20] Fear God and keep his commandments, -[3078.06 --> 3080.76] for this is the duty of all mankind. -[3081.82 --> 3084.88] For God will bring every deed into judgment, -[3085.48 --> 3087.58] including every hidden thing, -[3087.84 --> 3090.10] whether it is good or evil. -[3091.20 --> 3092.56] This is the word of the Lord. -[3097.06 --> 3099.44] When it went out in the e-bulletin -[3099.44 --> 3101.06] that this was the text -[3101.06 --> 3103.40] that we would be starting this series on, -[3104.08 --> 3106.70] my mother, bless her heart, -[3107.16 --> 3109.12] read the text and saw the line -[3109.12 --> 3110.48] of the making of many books, -[3110.58 --> 3111.32] there is no end, -[3111.44 --> 3113.38] and much study wearies the body. -[3113.90 --> 3115.46] And she reached out to me and she said, -[3115.48 --> 3116.36] is this a cry for help? -[3117.10 --> 3117.74] Are you tired? -[3117.74 --> 3118.40] Are you tired? -[3121.20 --> 3124.90] What I hope we might see -[3124.90 --> 3129.34] is how it is that the message of Ecclesiastes -[3129.34 --> 3133.46] speaks a word of truth -[3133.46 --> 3136.30] and meaning and purpose -[3136.30 --> 3140.20] in an age where truth, meaning, and purpose -[3140.20 --> 3141.62] are so hard to find. -[3141.62 --> 3147.68] I want to begin by naming a reality -[3147.68 --> 3149.12] that most of us, -[3149.22 --> 3150.88] whether we realize it or not, -[3151.56 --> 3155.32] are living in the midst of or out of. -[3157.56 --> 3158.86] In the world today, -[3158.98 --> 3162.34] we are told from incredibly various sources -[3162.34 --> 3165.76] and using incredibly varied language -[3165.76 --> 3167.12] and ways of saying it, -[3167.12 --> 3170.52] but we are told that the goal of life -[3170.52 --> 3173.22] is to be true to yourself, -[3173.62 --> 3176.20] to look inside, -[3176.42 --> 3179.26] to discover who you really are, -[3179.26 --> 3181.52] and then to live that idea -[3181.52 --> 3183.44] in that way without apology. -[3183.44 --> 3187.72] In fact, -[3188.08 --> 3191.80] we're told that if someone tries to tell you otherwise, -[3192.06 --> 3192.70] it's oppressive, -[3193.28 --> 3197.30] and that these kinds of words themselves are violent. -[3199.14 --> 3200.36] Now, let me be really clear, -[3200.44 --> 3201.72] because I think we can do a better job -[3201.72 --> 3203.86] of learning how to speak with gentleness and respect. -[3204.76 --> 3205.14] Okay? -[3205.18 --> 3206.18] I know that that is true, -[3207.14 --> 3208.28] but there's something here. -[3208.28 --> 3210.92] We live in a time, -[3211.00 --> 3211.44] in a moment, -[3211.56 --> 3212.36] in a culture -[3212.36 --> 3213.64] where we assume -[3213.64 --> 3214.96] or we're told -[3214.96 --> 3216.28] that progress -[3216.28 --> 3217.64] and technology -[3217.64 --> 3219.24] will save us. -[3220.42 --> 3222.30] That if we just keep advancing, -[3222.78 --> 3223.96] if we just keep learning, -[3224.20 --> 3225.56] if we just keep innovating, -[3226.00 --> 3227.68] life will finally work out -[3227.68 --> 3228.86] the way it's supposed to be. -[3233.42 --> 3235.28] We live in a time and a place -[3235.28 --> 3236.80] where comfort -[3236.80 --> 3238.16] and happiness -[3238.16 --> 3239.40] are the things -[3239.40 --> 3240.60] that we pursue -[3240.60 --> 3241.36] and chase -[3241.36 --> 3243.88] as the point of life -[3243.88 --> 3247.26] in order to feel good -[3247.26 --> 3248.92] and to avoid -[3248.92 --> 3250.62] the other limiting factors. -[3250.94 --> 3251.32] Comfort -[3251.32 --> 3252.12] and happiness -[3252.12 --> 3253.86] is the goal. -[3255.22 --> 3255.86] And, -[3255.98 --> 3256.74] we live in a time -[3256.74 --> 3257.54] and a place -[3257.54 --> 3259.14] where we're told -[3259.14 --> 3260.38] that God -[3260.38 --> 3261.14] is optional. -[3262.50 --> 3262.64] Right? -[3262.66 --> 3263.38] That if God -[3263.38 --> 3264.30] is good -[3264.30 --> 3265.04] for you -[3265.04 --> 3265.72] to achieve -[3265.72 --> 3266.46] that comfort, -[3266.80 --> 3267.88] and that happiness, -[3268.04 --> 3268.58] then great. -[3268.84 --> 3269.18] Go. -[3269.40 --> 3269.94] Do it. -[3270.94 --> 3272.30] But it is not true -[3272.30 --> 3273.00] for everyone. -[3274.56 --> 3274.68] Right? -[3274.70 --> 3276.22] It's a personal -[3276.22 --> 3277.50] and private -[3277.50 --> 3278.66] belief. -[3278.82 --> 3279.62] It is not -[3279.62 --> 3280.44] the center -[3280.44 --> 3282.06] of reality. -[3284.28 --> 3284.80] Now, -[3284.84 --> 3285.10] like we said, -[3285.18 --> 3286.06] these assumptions -[3286.06 --> 3287.68] promise meaning -[3287.68 --> 3288.60] and, -[3288.78 --> 3289.52] hear this very carefully, -[3289.78 --> 3291.02] they promise control. -[3291.02 --> 3291.08] people. -[3293.96 --> 3295.06] But when the bottom -[3295.06 --> 3295.92] falls out, -[3297.40 --> 3297.62] right, -[3297.66 --> 3298.62] when life gets hard, -[3299.52 --> 3300.22] when death -[3300.22 --> 3301.38] feels close, -[3302.38 --> 3303.62] when you wonder -[3303.62 --> 3305.08] what all the busyness -[3305.08 --> 3305.64] is for, -[3306.40 --> 3306.56] right, -[3306.56 --> 3307.24] when I move from -[3307.24 --> 3308.46] exhaustion to exhaustion -[3308.46 --> 3309.20] to exhaustion, -[3309.44 --> 3310.48] what's the purpose? -[3311.66 --> 3312.48] These things, -[3312.64 --> 3313.48] when they don't -[3313.48 --> 3314.26] hold up, -[3315.62 --> 3315.76] right, -[3315.76 --> 3316.74] what are you to do -[3316.74 --> 3317.60] when life -[3317.60 --> 3319.04] doesn't make sense -[3319.04 --> 3319.66] anymore? -[3320.52 --> 3321.80] When your search -[3321.80 --> 3322.52] for meaning -[3322.52 --> 3323.84] seems to slip -[3323.84 --> 3325.50] through your fingers -[3325.50 --> 3326.66] like smoke -[3326.66 --> 3327.80] from a candle? -[3329.88 --> 3330.58] That -[3330.58 --> 3332.38] is when the book -[3332.38 --> 3333.30] of Ecclesiastes -[3333.30 --> 3334.76] speaks -[3334.76 --> 3336.50] a more beautiful word. -[3336.50 --> 3338.96] That's why -[3338.96 --> 3339.26] the book -[3339.26 --> 3339.96] of Ecclesiastes -[3339.96 --> 3340.96] is for this -[3340.96 --> 3342.24] present moment. -[3342.38 --> 3343.14] One writer -[3343.14 --> 3343.80] has put it -[3343.80 --> 3344.20] this way, -[3344.28 --> 3344.60] they've said, -[3344.96 --> 3345.88] Ecclesiastes -[3345.88 --> 3347.04] calls those -[3347.04 --> 3347.64] struggling -[3347.64 --> 3348.62] with the nature -[3348.62 --> 3349.70] of life's meaning -[3349.70 --> 3350.80] and God's purposes -[3350.80 --> 3352.08] to pursue -[3352.08 --> 3353.58] genuine wisdom -[3353.58 --> 3355.36] by allowing -[3355.36 --> 3356.28] their thinking -[3356.28 --> 3357.20] to be shaped -[3357.20 --> 3358.24] integrally -[3358.24 --> 3359.62] by a recognition -[3359.62 --> 3360.28] of God -[3360.28 --> 3361.00] as creator -[3361.00 --> 3362.64] so that they -[3362.64 --> 3363.34] can enjoy -[3363.34 --> 3364.28] God's good gifts -[3364.28 --> 3365.08] and obey -[3365.08 --> 3365.82] his laws -[3365.82 --> 3366.78] amid the -[3366.78 --> 3367.68] enigmas -[3367.68 --> 3368.82] of his -[3368.82 --> 3369.76] purposes. -[3370.26 --> 3370.84] That was a lot, -[3370.92 --> 3371.70] let's dig into that. -[3372.98 --> 3373.42] In short, -[3373.72 --> 3374.22] the preacher -[3374.22 --> 3375.26] or the teacher -[3375.26 --> 3376.34] in Ecclesiastes -[3376.34 --> 3377.36] wants you -[3377.36 --> 3378.34] to wake up. -[3380.70 --> 3381.14] He's not going -[3381.14 --> 3381.54] to give us -[3381.54 --> 3382.34] simple answers -[3382.34 --> 3383.22] because we're not -[3383.22 --> 3384.38] asking simple questions. -[3386.90 --> 3388.06] The teacher -[3388.06 --> 3388.68] is going to -[3388.68 --> 3389.72] force us -[3389.72 --> 3390.86] to face -[3390.86 --> 3391.84] the limits -[3391.84 --> 3392.76] of life -[3392.76 --> 3393.82] honestly. -[3393.82 --> 3395.58] and he's -[3395.58 --> 3395.82] going to -[3395.82 --> 3396.50] teach us -[3396.50 --> 3396.82] that the -[3396.82 --> 3397.62] only way -[3397.62 --> 3398.22] to live -[3398.22 --> 3398.96] wisely -[3398.96 --> 3400.68] is to live, -[3400.78 --> 3401.16] as Nicky -[3401.16 --> 3401.64] has already -[3401.64 --> 3402.02] said, -[3402.42 --> 3402.76] backwards. -[3404.30 --> 3405.18] To keep -[3405.18 --> 3405.72] the end -[3405.72 --> 3406.42] in view, -[3407.00 --> 3407.86] to let -[3407.86 --> 3408.94] the certainty -[3408.94 --> 3409.86] of death, -[3410.50 --> 3411.24] the reality -[3411.24 --> 3412.18] of judgment, -[3412.34 --> 3413.14] and the return -[3413.14 --> 3413.98] of Christ -[3413.98 --> 3415.32] shape how -[3415.32 --> 3415.94] we live -[3415.94 --> 3416.50] now. -[3416.50 --> 3418.72] And that's -[3418.72 --> 3419.08] why we're -[3419.08 --> 3419.68] starting this -[3419.68 --> 3420.18] series at -[3420.18 --> 3420.54] the end -[3420.54 --> 3420.82] of the -[3420.82 --> 3421.10] book, -[3422.10 --> 3423.42] with Ecclesiastes -[3423.42 --> 3423.94] 12, -[3424.30 --> 3425.38] 18 to -[3425.38 --> 3426.26] 14. -[3427.10 --> 3427.62] Now, -[3427.70 --> 3428.28] the Hebrew -[3428.28 --> 3429.22] title of -[3429.22 --> 3429.78] this book -[3429.78 --> 3430.86] is Kohelet. -[3431.74 --> 3432.44] That's a -[3432.44 --> 3433.30] Hebrew word -[3433.30 --> 3434.62] for one -[3434.62 --> 3435.34] who gathers -[3435.34 --> 3435.94] the people -[3435.94 --> 3436.52] to teach -[3436.52 --> 3436.82] them. -[3438.58 --> 3439.76] The ancient -[3439.76 --> 3440.66] Greek translation -[3440.66 --> 3441.86] of that word -[3441.86 --> 3443.28] is Ecclesiastes, -[3443.28 --> 3444.68] which means -[3444.68 --> 3445.18] a citizen -[3445.18 --> 3445.82] of the -[3445.82 --> 3446.54] assembly. -[3446.70 --> 3447.02] That's where -[3447.02 --> 3447.84] our title -[3447.84 --> 3448.44] for this -[3448.44 --> 3449.08] book comes. -[3449.22 --> 3449.82] Ecclesiastes -[3449.82 --> 3450.24] is the -[3450.24 --> 3450.44] Greek -[3450.44 --> 3451.04] translation -[3451.04 --> 3452.28] of the -[3452.28 --> 3452.58] Hebrew -[3452.58 --> 3453.04] word -[3453.04 --> 3453.86] Kohelet. -[3454.26 --> 3454.72] Martin -[3454.72 --> 3455.18] Luther, -[3455.56 --> 3456.08] 16th -[3456.08 --> 3456.46] century -[3456.46 --> 3457.28] reformer, -[3457.46 --> 3458.10] translated -[3458.10 --> 3459.30] Kohelet -[3459.30 --> 3460.06] as the -[3460.06 --> 3460.48] preacher. -[3461.66 --> 3462.32] The NIV, -[3462.78 --> 3463.18] which we -[3463.18 --> 3463.48] read, -[3463.66 --> 3464.38] translates it -[3464.38 --> 3465.10] as the -[3465.10 --> 3465.54] teacher. -[3467.20 --> 3468.14] And that's -[3468.14 --> 3468.44] what's going -[3468.44 --> 3468.92] on in this -[3468.92 --> 3469.24] book. -[3470.10 --> 3470.72] It is a -[3470.72 --> 3471.10] teacher -[3471.10 --> 3472.32] showing us -[3472.32 --> 3473.02] what life -[3473.02 --> 3474.20] looks like -[3474.20 --> 3474.74] when you -[3474.74 --> 3475.32] face -[3475.32 --> 3476.62] reality -[3476.62 --> 3477.78] honestly. -[3480.38 --> 3480.98] Dave -[3480.98 --> 3481.50] Gibson, -[3481.78 --> 3482.70] whose book -[3482.70 --> 3483.16] has helped -[3483.16 --> 3483.70] shape this -[3483.70 --> 3484.30] whole series, -[3484.58 --> 3485.18] the book -[3485.18 --> 3485.52] is called -[3485.52 --> 3486.26] Live Life -[3486.26 --> 3486.84] Backwards, -[3487.28 --> 3488.08] he writes, -[3488.50 --> 3488.90] the book -[3488.90 --> 3489.84] of Ecclesiastes -[3489.84 --> 3490.60] is one of -[3490.60 --> 3491.26] God's gifts -[3491.26 --> 3492.00] to help us -[3492.00 --> 3492.72] live in -[3492.72 --> 3493.22] the real -[3493.22 --> 3493.62] world. -[3495.84 --> 3496.04] And so -[3496.04 --> 3496.60] Ecclesiastes -[3496.60 --> 3497.12] is going to -[3497.12 --> 3497.52] take us -[3497.52 --> 3497.80] on a -[3497.80 --> 3498.54] roller coaster. -[3499.46 --> 3499.82] It's going -[3499.82 --> 3500.16] to paint -[3500.16 --> 3500.62] for us -[3500.62 --> 3501.34] a picture -[3501.34 --> 3502.00] of life -[3502.00 --> 3502.42] in all -[3502.42 --> 3502.68] of its -[3502.68 --> 3503.10] beauty -[3503.10 --> 3504.30] and sorrow, -[3504.54 --> 3504.84] in all -[3504.84 --> 3505.12] of its -[3505.12 --> 3505.58] joy -[3505.58 --> 3506.66] and frustration, -[3507.04 --> 3507.36] in all -[3507.36 --> 3507.60] of its -[3507.60 --> 3508.28] questions -[3508.28 --> 3509.66] and enigmas. -[3511.58 --> 3512.14] The -[3512.14 --> 3512.50] teacher -[3512.50 --> 3513.40] looks at -[3513.40 --> 3513.94] life, -[3514.32 --> 3514.54] he looks -[3514.54 --> 3515.32] at experience, -[3515.52 --> 3515.74] he looks -[3515.74 --> 3516.34] at time, -[3516.44 --> 3516.70] he looks -[3516.70 --> 3517.20] at trouble, -[3517.50 --> 3517.86] the teacher -[3517.86 --> 3518.46] looks at -[3518.46 --> 3519.10] what seems -[3519.10 --> 3520.08] to him -[3520.08 --> 3520.62] to be -[3520.62 --> 3521.60] deterministic -[3521.60 --> 3522.14] forces -[3522.14 --> 3523.32] like fate -[3523.32 --> 3525.02] and can -[3525.02 --> 3525.76] only -[3525.76 --> 3526.52] conclude -[3526.52 --> 3527.90] that all -[3527.90 --> 3528.60] is -[3528.60 --> 3529.50] meaningless. -[3530.46 --> 3531.18] Meaningless, -[3531.46 --> 3532.12] says the -[3532.12 --> 3532.54] teacher. -[3533.00 --> 3533.52] Everything -[3533.52 --> 3534.56] is -[3534.56 --> 3535.48] meaningless. -[3537.48 --> 3538.40] Havel -[3538.40 --> 3539.52] in Hebrew. -[3540.78 --> 3541.24] An older -[3541.24 --> 3542.02] translation of -[3542.02 --> 3542.22] that, -[3542.70 --> 3543.12] vanity, -[3544.26 --> 3544.82] vanity -[3544.82 --> 3545.42] of -[3545.42 --> 3546.32] vanities, -[3547.78 --> 3548.26] enigma, -[3549.22 --> 3549.56] vapor. -[3549.56 --> 3549.68] power. -[3551.44 --> 3552.66] But all -[3552.66 --> 3553.70] of that -[3553.70 --> 3555.74] meaninglessness -[3555.74 --> 3557.26] in the book -[3557.26 --> 3558.30] of Ecclesiastes -[3558.30 --> 3559.98] is held -[3559.98 --> 3561.06] against and -[3561.06 --> 3562.32] alongside of -[3562.32 --> 3563.36] this sort -[3563.36 --> 3565.08] of carpe diem -[3565.08 --> 3566.42] belief in -[3566.42 --> 3567.42] the goodness -[3567.42 --> 3568.24] of creation -[3568.24 --> 3568.90] and the -[3568.90 --> 3569.40] goodness of -[3569.40 --> 3569.76] life. -[3570.64 --> 3570.98] Throughout, -[3571.14 --> 3571.32] you get -[3571.32 --> 3571.70] meaningless, -[3571.88 --> 3572.08] meaningless, -[3572.24 --> 3572.56] but then you -[3572.56 --> 3572.98] also get -[3572.98 --> 3573.46] eat, -[3573.64 --> 3573.88] drink, -[3573.98 --> 3574.18] and be -[3574.18 --> 3574.54] merry. -[3574.54 --> 3576.84] Right? -[3576.98 --> 3577.50] Vanity -[3577.50 --> 3577.80] of -[3577.80 --> 3578.32] vanities -[3578.32 --> 3579.22] and celebrate -[3579.22 --> 3580.50] life. -[3582.42 --> 3582.70] And so -[3582.70 --> 3583.14] there's this -[3583.14 --> 3584.16] meaninglessness -[3584.16 --> 3585.02] and this -[3585.02 --> 3586.14] nihilism -[3586.14 --> 3587.46] that's always -[3587.46 --> 3588.82] held against -[3588.82 --> 3590.20] this persistent -[3590.20 --> 3591.44] belief in a -[3591.44 --> 3592.12] good God -[3592.12 --> 3592.82] and a good -[3592.82 --> 3593.50] creation. -[3593.98 --> 3595.16] A persistent -[3595.16 --> 3596.20] idea that -[3596.20 --> 3597.02] there must be -[3597.02 --> 3597.96] more to life -[3597.96 --> 3598.42] than this -[3598.42 --> 3598.80] struggle. -[3602.58 --> 3603.52] What do you -[3603.52 --> 3603.96] do -[3603.96 --> 3606.22] when your -[3606.22 --> 3607.14] experience -[3607.14 --> 3608.06] challenges -[3608.06 --> 3609.82] the belief -[3609.82 --> 3610.26] in the -[3610.26 --> 3610.78] goodness of -[3610.78 --> 3611.14] life? -[3614.50 --> 3615.44] What do -[3615.44 --> 3615.84] you do -[3615.84 --> 3616.80] when your -[3616.80 --> 3617.54] experience -[3617.54 --> 3618.32] is full -[3618.32 --> 3619.54] of hardship -[3619.54 --> 3620.60] and pain -[3620.60 --> 3621.56] and hurt -[3621.56 --> 3623.24] but somehow, -[3623.82 --> 3624.50] some way, -[3624.80 --> 3625.44] in that -[3625.44 --> 3626.22] very same -[3626.22 --> 3626.80] heart, -[3627.18 --> 3627.92] is this -[3627.92 --> 3628.96] ongoing -[3628.96 --> 3630.10] persistence -[3630.10 --> 3631.62] and imagination? -[3633.26 --> 3633.36] Right? -[3633.36 --> 3634.18] Even asking -[3634.18 --> 3634.96] the question, -[3635.36 --> 3635.76] what is -[3635.76 --> 3636.32] the point? -[3637.48 --> 3637.66] Right? -[3637.66 --> 3638.06] Even that -[3638.06 --> 3639.20] question rests -[3639.20 --> 3639.78] on the -[3639.78 --> 3640.30] assumption -[3640.30 --> 3641.14] that there -[3641.14 --> 3642.02] should be -[3642.02 --> 3642.62] that there -[3642.62 --> 3643.36] is a -[3643.36 --> 3643.72] point -[3643.72 --> 3645.30] and that -[3645.30 --> 3645.76] the point -[3645.76 --> 3646.38] ought to be -[3646.38 --> 3646.72] good. -[3648.00 --> 3648.50] Right? -[3648.54 --> 3649.02] In this -[3649.02 --> 3649.50] way, -[3649.50 --> 3650.26] in exactly -[3650.26 --> 3650.78] this way, -[3650.94 --> 3651.74] Ecclesiastes -[3651.74 --> 3653.00] is the -[3653.00 --> 3653.58] book for -[3653.58 --> 3654.06] a time -[3654.06 --> 3654.70] such as -[3654.70 --> 3655.36] this. -[3657.84 --> 3658.64] And it -[3658.64 --> 3659.12] is -[3659.12 --> 3660.78] because it -[3660.78 --> 3661.76] drives us -[3661.76 --> 3662.60] back -[3662.60 --> 3663.88] to God. -[3665.48 --> 3666.44] To put it -[3666.44 --> 3666.94] in sort of -[3666.94 --> 3667.32] modern -[3667.32 --> 3667.94] language, -[3668.74 --> 3669.60] Ecclesiastes -[3669.60 --> 3670.06] will -[3670.06 --> 3670.92] de-center -[3670.92 --> 3671.60] you -[3671.60 --> 3673.20] and re-center -[3673.20 --> 3673.60] him. -[3675.26 --> 3675.96] Ecclesiastes -[3675.96 --> 3676.74] is a project -[3676.74 --> 3677.78] of de-centering, -[3678.42 --> 3679.42] of challenging -[3679.42 --> 3680.24] our assumptions -[3680.24 --> 3680.86] about how -[3680.86 --> 3681.38] the world -[3681.38 --> 3682.14] works and -[3682.14 --> 3682.58] about what -[3682.58 --> 3683.02] works in -[3683.02 --> 3683.44] the world. -[3684.38 --> 3684.92] Removing -[3684.92 --> 3685.52] ourselves -[3685.52 --> 3686.10] from the -[3686.10 --> 3686.42] center -[3686.42 --> 3687.34] of our -[3687.34 --> 3687.64] little -[3687.64 --> 3688.10] worlds -[3688.10 --> 3688.58] as the -[3688.58 --> 3689.14] arbiters -[3689.14 --> 3689.92] and discerners -[3689.92 --> 3690.22] of what -[3690.22 --> 3690.60] is true -[3690.60 --> 3691.22] and good -[3691.22 --> 3691.78] and beautiful -[3691.78 --> 3693.12] and re-centering -[3693.12 --> 3693.94] the creator, -[3694.36 --> 3695.10] God himself, -[3695.34 --> 3695.78] as the -[3695.78 --> 3696.32] ultimate, -[3696.52 --> 3697.46] capital T, -[3697.92 --> 3698.28] true, -[3698.70 --> 3699.18] good, -[3699.18 --> 3700.08] and beautiful. -[3701.46 --> 3702.22] And this -[3702.22 --> 3702.78] is important. -[3703.78 --> 3704.48] I love the -[3704.48 --> 3704.86] way that -[3704.86 --> 3705.58] John Welch -[3705.58 --> 3706.58] puts it. -[3707.00 --> 3707.44] He says, -[3708.42 --> 3708.90] centering -[3708.90 --> 3709.68] our life -[3709.68 --> 3710.54] on God -[3710.54 --> 3711.72] does not -[3711.72 --> 3712.50] rob us -[3712.50 --> 3713.06] of our -[3713.06 --> 3713.94] personality, -[3714.84 --> 3715.52] but it -[3715.52 --> 3715.94] guarantees -[3715.94 --> 3716.46] it. -[3718.72 --> 3719.40] Ecclesiastes -[3719.40 --> 3720.04] wants you -[3720.04 --> 3720.62] to see -[3720.62 --> 3721.52] that your -[3721.52 --> 3722.20] true -[3722.20 --> 3723.26] humanity, -[3723.76 --> 3724.22] who you -[3724.22 --> 3725.08] really are -[3725.08 --> 3725.94] supposed to -[3725.94 --> 3726.46] be, -[3727.20 --> 3728.42] by showing -[3728.42 --> 3729.04] you God. -[3729.18 --> 3731.02] by showing -[3731.02 --> 3731.40] you who -[3731.40 --> 3731.98] God is. -[3733.66 --> 3734.10] That's why -[3734.10 --> 3734.52] I believe -[3734.52 --> 3734.88] that this -[3734.88 --> 3735.30] book is -[3735.30 --> 3735.82] important for -[3735.82 --> 3736.34] this moment -[3736.34 --> 3737.18] right now. -[3737.30 --> 3737.80] It's because -[3737.80 --> 3738.24] of this -[3738.24 --> 3738.70] idea. -[3739.54 --> 3739.92] And I -[3739.92 --> 3740.38] believe it -[3740.38 --> 3740.90] is important -[3740.90 --> 3741.86] because it -[3741.86 --> 3743.16] goes straight -[3743.16 --> 3744.32] to what -[3744.32 --> 3745.02] most of -[3745.02 --> 3745.62] us in -[3745.62 --> 3746.50] our lives -[3746.50 --> 3747.30] avoid. -[3748.92 --> 3749.86] The ultimate -[3749.86 --> 3750.50] destination, -[3751.32 --> 3752.10] the ultimate -[3752.10 --> 3752.74] purpose, -[3753.98 --> 3754.20] the very -[3754.20 --> 3754.96] end for -[3754.96 --> 3756.02] which we -[3756.02 --> 3756.40] exist. -[3757.36 --> 3758.12] The teacher -[3758.12 --> 3758.98] cuts through -[3758.98 --> 3759.24] that -[3759.24 --> 3759.72] noise. -[3761.74 --> 3762.40] He insists -[3762.40 --> 3762.90] that the -[3762.90 --> 3764.14] end, and -[3764.14 --> 3764.86] not progress -[3764.86 --> 3765.30] or not -[3765.30 --> 3766.10] self-fulfillment, -[3766.32 --> 3767.08] not comfort, -[3767.34 --> 3767.92] not your -[3767.92 --> 3769.20] control, but -[3769.20 --> 3770.20] the end is -[3770.20 --> 3770.76] what makes -[3770.76 --> 3771.64] sense of the -[3771.64 --> 3772.38] journey along -[3772.38 --> 3772.72] the way. -[3773.90 --> 3774.54] And so, like -[3774.54 --> 3775.06] we said, we're -[3775.06 --> 3775.98] beginning at -[3775.98 --> 3776.42] the end. -[3776.86 --> 3777.56] And at the -[3777.56 --> 3778.98] end, Ecclesiastes -[3778.98 --> 3780.60] lays out for -[3780.60 --> 3781.72] us four -[3781.72 --> 3783.36] interlocking -[3783.36 --> 3784.44] realities. -[3784.44 --> 3784.74] keys. -[3785.90 --> 3786.60] The first -[3786.60 --> 3787.58] is to see -[3787.58 --> 3788.20] that life -[3788.20 --> 3789.56] is enigma, -[3790.56 --> 3791.24] it's fragile, -[3791.50 --> 3792.12] it's fleeting, -[3792.22 --> 3792.96] it's havel. -[3793.60 --> 3794.50] Second, to -[3794.50 --> 3795.44] see that God's -[3795.44 --> 3796.34] word both -[3796.34 --> 3797.38] delights and -[3797.38 --> 3798.44] corrects in the -[3798.44 --> 3798.98] midst of that. -[3799.04 --> 3800.02] It guides and -[3800.02 --> 3801.60] at times, to use -[3801.60 --> 3802.04] the language of -[3802.04 --> 3802.50] the text, it -[3802.50 --> 3803.92] painfully goads -[3803.92 --> 3805.36] back onto the -[3805.36 --> 3806.02] safe path. -[3806.58 --> 3807.52] Third, to see -[3807.52 --> 3808.24] that our proper -[3808.24 --> 3809.24] response is -[3809.24 --> 3810.48] summarized in the -[3810.48 --> 3811.86] teacher's call to -[3811.86 --> 3812.86] fear God and -[3812.86 --> 3813.34] keep his -[3813.34 --> 3813.76] commands. -[3814.14 --> 3814.38] And then -[3814.38 --> 3815.18] finally, last -[3815.18 --> 3816.08] we will end -[3816.08 --> 3817.74] this morning, is -[3817.74 --> 3819.40] to see that the -[3819.40 --> 3820.74] decisive reality -[3820.74 --> 3821.96] that makes all -[3821.96 --> 3823.06] of this urgent -[3823.06 --> 3825.40] is the truth of -[3825.40 --> 3827.12] death and -[3827.12 --> 3829.18] judgment in the -[3829.18 --> 3829.88] face of Christ's -[3829.88 --> 3830.14] return. -[3831.22 --> 3832.00] The book -[3832.00 --> 3833.02] closes, right, -[3833.08 --> 3833.34] with an -[3833.34 --> 3834.34] uncompromising -[3834.34 --> 3834.76] note. -[3835.40 --> 3836.02] Verse 14, -[3836.36 --> 3837.00] and God will -[3837.00 --> 3837.84] bring every -[3837.84 --> 3838.72] deed into -[3838.72 --> 3839.26] judgment, -[3839.48 --> 3840.52] including every -[3840.52 --> 3841.18] hidden thing, -[3841.18 --> 3841.94] whether it is -[3841.94 --> 3842.94] good or -[3842.94 --> 3843.30] evil. -[3846.74 --> 3847.56] If the -[3847.56 --> 3848.68] end is -[3848.68 --> 3849.20] judgment, -[3850.04 --> 3851.62] then our -[3851.62 --> 3852.90] present decisions, -[3853.58 --> 3854.22] our present -[3854.22 --> 3855.32] moment, is -[3855.32 --> 3855.92] not trivial. -[3856.92 --> 3858.04] It matters. -[3859.18 --> 3860.56] Living backwards -[3860.56 --> 3861.70] means letting -[3861.70 --> 3862.72] that final -[3862.72 --> 3863.56] courtroom of -[3863.56 --> 3864.62] God shape how -[3864.62 --> 3865.58] we work and -[3865.58 --> 3866.46] how we love and -[3866.46 --> 3867.84] how we speak and -[3867.84 --> 3868.74] how we suffer -[3868.74 --> 3869.44] today. -[3871.18 --> 3872.00] To live -[3872.00 --> 3873.42] wisely is to -[3873.42 --> 3873.92] let the -[3873.92 --> 3874.78] certainty of -[3874.78 --> 3875.34] death and -[3875.34 --> 3876.84] the reality of -[3876.84 --> 3877.70] final judgment -[3877.70 --> 3878.62] shape your -[3878.62 --> 3879.04] present. -[3880.26 --> 3881.08] Fear God, -[3881.22 --> 3881.80] obey His -[3881.80 --> 3882.16] commands, -[3882.54 --> 3883.50] live in light -[3883.50 --> 3884.56] of the end. -[3885.48 --> 3886.00] That's our big -[3886.00 --> 3887.32] idea for today -[3887.32 --> 3888.12] and it will be -[3888.12 --> 3888.96] seen throughout. -[3889.80 --> 3891.08] To live wisely, -[3891.28 --> 3891.98] we must live -[3891.98 --> 3892.74] backward. -[3893.68 --> 3894.20] Death and -[3894.20 --> 3894.82] judgment are -[3894.82 --> 3896.00] certain, so we -[3896.00 --> 3897.76] fear God and -[3897.76 --> 3898.16] keep His -[3898.16 --> 3898.54] commands. -[3898.54 --> 3901.30] to help us -[3901.30 --> 3901.84] keep this in -[3901.84 --> 3903.90] view, we're -[3903.90 --> 3904.60] starting this -[3904.60 --> 3906.50] series with -[3906.50 --> 3907.82] the end so -[3907.82 --> 3908.40] that we can -[3908.40 --> 3908.92] know the -[3908.92 --> 3909.88] conclusions at -[3909.88 --> 3911.16] the outset that -[3911.16 --> 3912.06] we might apply -[3912.06 --> 3913.18] them week in -[3913.18 --> 3914.74] and week out in -[3914.74 --> 3915.92] anticipation of -[3915.92 --> 3917.82] the struggles that -[3917.82 --> 3918.88] the teacher will -[3918.88 --> 3919.54] take us through. -[3922.28 --> 3923.24] Now, verse 8, -[3923.36 --> 3924.12] where we started, -[3924.24 --> 3925.06] of chapter 12, -[3925.06 --> 3927.66] then, is the -[3927.66 --> 3928.60] sort of banner -[3928.60 --> 3930.64] frame of the -[3930.64 --> 3930.92] book. -[3931.88 --> 3932.94] When you think, -[3933.10 --> 3933.64] what is -[3933.64 --> 3934.46] Ecclesiastes -[3934.46 --> 3935.00] about? -[3935.30 --> 3936.20] This line, -[3936.44 --> 3936.84] meaningless, -[3937.10 --> 3937.44] meaningless, -[3937.66 --> 3938.12] says the -[3938.12 --> 3938.44] teacher, -[3938.60 --> 3939.84] everything is -[3939.84 --> 3940.30] meaningless, -[3940.48 --> 3941.06] or vanity, -[3941.62 --> 3942.00] vanity, -[3942.32 --> 3943.26] everything is -[3943.26 --> 3943.86] vanity, -[3944.06 --> 3944.72] or all of -[3944.72 --> 3945.42] life is -[3945.42 --> 3946.18] vanity. -[3946.42 --> 3947.46] This refrain -[3947.46 --> 3949.38] persists. -[3949.38 --> 3951.52] Now, this -[3951.52 --> 3952.04] word, -[3952.38 --> 3952.80] meaningless, -[3953.46 --> 3954.22] people have -[3954.22 --> 3954.96] suggested many -[3954.96 --> 3955.54] different ways -[3955.54 --> 3956.32] to translate -[3956.32 --> 3957.00] that word. -[3957.88 --> 3958.32] Some people -[3958.32 --> 3958.74] have used -[3958.74 --> 3959.12] vanity, -[3959.46 --> 3959.88] some people -[3959.88 --> 3960.36] have used -[3960.36 --> 3961.32] vapor. -[3961.48 --> 3961.86] I had a -[3961.86 --> 3962.20] preaching -[3962.20 --> 3963.12] professor in -[3963.12 --> 3964.22] seminary who -[3964.22 --> 3965.06] said, you -[3965.06 --> 3965.98] can't translate -[3965.98 --> 3966.94] this word with -[3966.94 --> 3967.56] another word, -[3967.64 --> 3968.06] you need to -[3968.06 --> 3968.74] translate it with -[3968.74 --> 3969.36] a sound, -[3969.46 --> 3969.86] and he would -[3969.86 --> 3970.04] go, -[3970.04 --> 3973.58] because it -[3973.58 --> 3974.82] just disappears. -[3974.82 --> 3978.72] Psalm 39, -[3979.02 --> 3980.30] verse 5 and -[3980.30 --> 3980.74] 6, -[3981.62 --> 3982.36] says the -[3982.36 --> 3982.66] following, -[3983.66 --> 3984.94] the span of -[3984.94 --> 3986.02] my years is -[3986.02 --> 3986.64] as nothing -[3986.64 --> 3987.36] before you. -[3988.22 --> 3989.48] Everything is -[3989.48 --> 3990.02] but a -[3990.02 --> 3990.52] breath, -[3991.38 --> 3991.66] Havel. -[3993.08 --> 3993.60] Surely -[3993.60 --> 3994.66] everyone goes -[3994.66 --> 3995.44] about like a -[3995.44 --> 3996.36] mere phantom -[3996.36 --> 3997.58] in vain, -[3998.04 --> 3998.48] Havel, -[3998.84 --> 3999.56] they rush -[3999.56 --> 4000.02] about, -[4000.56 --> 4001.04] keeping up -[4001.04 --> 4001.40] wealth. -[4002.54 --> 4002.92] Proverbs -[4002.92 --> 4003.58] 31, -[4003.82 --> 4004.34] 30, -[4004.52 --> 4004.72] says, -[4004.82 --> 4005.64] charm is -[4005.64 --> 4006.64] deceptive -[4006.64 --> 4007.64] and beauty -[4007.64 --> 4009.14] is fleeting. -[4010.16 --> 4010.56] Havel. -[4012.10 --> 4012.66] There's -[4012.66 --> 4013.44] something in -[4013.44 --> 4014.34] this word, -[4014.72 --> 4015.24] there's -[4015.24 --> 4015.84] something of -[4015.84 --> 4016.68] a recognition -[4016.68 --> 4017.78] that life -[4017.78 --> 4019.20] and meaning -[4019.20 --> 4020.46] are elusive, -[4021.14 --> 4021.60] that they're -[4021.60 --> 4022.08] hard to -[4022.08 --> 4022.54] grasp, -[4023.06 --> 4023.38] they are -[4023.38 --> 4024.50] that wisp -[4024.50 --> 4025.42] of smoke -[4025.42 --> 4026.24] that you -[4026.24 --> 4026.64] try to -[4026.64 --> 4027.08] reach out -[4027.08 --> 4027.40] to it, -[4027.46 --> 4027.74] to lay -[4027.74 --> 4028.16] hold of -[4028.16 --> 4028.28] it, -[4028.34 --> 4028.74] to grab -[4028.74 --> 4028.90] it, -[4029.00 --> 4029.32] and then -[4029.32 --> 4029.66] you open -[4029.66 --> 4030.02] your hand -[4030.02 --> 4030.42] to look -[4030.42 --> 4030.72] at it, -[4030.76 --> 4031.02] and there's -[4031.02 --> 4031.26] nothing -[4031.26 --> 4031.54] there. -[4034.82 --> 4036.72] life can -[4036.72 --> 4037.34] feel that -[4037.34 --> 4037.60] way. -[4040.48 --> 4041.14] And it's -[4041.14 --> 4041.50] not that -[4041.50 --> 4042.24] life is -[4042.24 --> 4042.74] meaningless, -[4043.54 --> 4043.94] in the -[4043.94 --> 4045.02] literal sense, -[4045.08 --> 4045.46] it's that -[4045.46 --> 4046.36] the meaning -[4046.36 --> 4047.64] is hard to -[4047.64 --> 4048.22] grab hold -[4048.22 --> 4048.50] of, -[4048.72 --> 4049.48] it's hard to -[4049.48 --> 4050.06] figure out, -[4050.28 --> 4050.86] it's hard to -[4050.86 --> 4051.44] see how it -[4051.44 --> 4051.84] can apply -[4051.84 --> 4052.22] here, -[4052.36 --> 4052.92] and here, -[4053.10 --> 4053.66] and here, -[4053.78 --> 4054.36] and here. -[4054.36 --> 4056.60] somehow, -[4056.86 --> 4057.36] this meaning -[4057.36 --> 4057.72] that we -[4057.72 --> 4058.68] know exists -[4058.68 --> 4059.68] is beyond -[4059.68 --> 4060.78] our comprehension. -[4061.94 --> 4062.72] That's why I -[4062.72 --> 4063.42] like the word -[4063.42 --> 4063.80] in the -[4063.80 --> 4064.34] translation -[4064.34 --> 4065.24] enigma. -[4066.50 --> 4067.26] That's from -[4067.26 --> 4068.38] Craig Bartholomew, -[4068.46 --> 4068.76] whom I -[4068.76 --> 4069.18] studied -[4069.18 --> 4070.58] underneath -[4070.58 --> 4071.60] in university, -[4072.18 --> 4072.62] and who's -[4072.62 --> 4073.18] probably written -[4073.18 --> 4073.74] the definitive -[4073.74 --> 4074.46] commentary, -[4075.22 --> 4075.78] or contemporary -[4075.78 --> 4076.30] commentary, -[4076.48 --> 4076.68] anyway, -[4076.80 --> 4077.66] on Ecclesiastes. -[4079.44 --> 4080.04] But, -[4080.12 --> 4080.90] already back -[4080.90 --> 4081.34] in the -[4081.34 --> 4083.24] 15th and -[4083.24 --> 4083.84] 16th -[4083.84 --> 4084.40] centuries, -[4085.20 --> 4085.50] in the -[4085.50 --> 4085.90] history of -[4085.90 --> 4086.40] the church, -[4086.92 --> 4087.50] there was a -[4087.50 --> 4087.92] bit of a -[4087.92 --> 4089.34] resurgence in -[4089.34 --> 4090.16] the study of -[4090.16 --> 4091.40] Ecclesiastes for -[4091.40 --> 4091.86] the life of -[4091.86 --> 4092.32] the church. -[4093.32 --> 4093.66] And Martin -[4093.66 --> 4094.26] Luther and -[4094.26 --> 4094.58] the other -[4094.58 --> 4095.40] reformers -[4095.40 --> 4096.48] helped us -[4096.48 --> 4097.32] to see -[4097.32 --> 4098.34] that Havel -[4098.34 --> 4099.54] isn't -[4099.54 --> 4100.72] itself about -[4100.72 --> 4101.96] the created -[4101.96 --> 4102.86] order as -[4102.86 --> 4103.54] being meaningless, -[4103.80 --> 4104.42] or to -[4104.42 --> 4105.98] espouse a -[4105.98 --> 4106.26] sort of -[4106.26 --> 4107.24] contempt for -[4107.24 --> 4107.82] the world, -[4108.14 --> 4108.80] but to -[4108.80 --> 4109.54] see that -[4109.54 --> 4110.00] it's about -[4110.00 --> 4110.72] the heart, -[4111.28 --> 4112.02] the seat -[4112.02 --> 4112.96] of your -[4112.96 --> 4113.46] and my -[4113.46 --> 4114.30] emotions -[4114.30 --> 4115.76] and desires, -[4116.36 --> 4116.94] and our -[4116.94 --> 4117.64] wayward -[4117.64 --> 4118.68] appetites, -[4118.94 --> 4119.26] and then -[4119.26 --> 4120.48] the misuse -[4120.48 --> 4121.52] of creation -[4121.52 --> 4123.18] that results -[4123.18 --> 4124.28] in the -[4124.28 --> 4125.26] good creation -[4125.26 --> 4126.32] being subject -[4126.32 --> 4128.06] to this -[4128.06 --> 4129.42] Havel, -[4129.62 --> 4130.92] this vanity, -[4131.20 --> 4132.42] this enigma. -[4134.12 --> 4134.86] And it's in -[4134.86 --> 4136.42] and through -[4136.42 --> 4137.38] the desires -[4137.38 --> 4138.06] of my -[4138.06 --> 4139.08] wayward heart -[4139.08 --> 4139.80] that finding -[4139.80 --> 4141.12] meaning in -[4141.12 --> 4141.74] the things -[4141.74 --> 4142.22] of the -[4142.22 --> 4143.02] world is -[4143.02 --> 4143.56] hard, -[4143.66 --> 4143.84] albeit -[4143.84 --> 4144.84] impossible, -[4145.34 --> 4146.52] because the -[4146.52 --> 4147.00] things of -[4147.00 --> 4147.64] this world -[4147.64 --> 4149.16] are always -[4149.16 --> 4149.70] changing. -[4150.62 --> 4151.12] Right? -[4151.20 --> 4151.44] They're -[4151.44 --> 4151.88] fleeting, -[4152.34 --> 4152.98] they're -[4152.98 --> 4153.42] moving, -[4153.58 --> 4153.80] they're -[4153.80 --> 4154.70] transitory, -[4155.16 --> 4156.06] and purpose -[4156.06 --> 4156.70] and meaning -[4156.70 --> 4157.32] can't be -[4157.32 --> 4159.12] fixed if -[4159.12 --> 4159.94] the source -[4159.94 --> 4160.48] of purpose -[4160.48 --> 4160.94] and meaning -[4160.94 --> 4162.26] is itself -[4162.26 --> 4163.16] mutable, -[4163.26 --> 4163.66] if it's -[4163.66 --> 4164.34] changing. -[4165.72 --> 4166.68] Meaning and -[4166.68 --> 4167.34] purpose can -[4167.34 --> 4168.18] only be -[4168.18 --> 4169.38] fixed if -[4169.38 --> 4170.14] the source -[4170.14 --> 4170.66] of our -[4170.66 --> 4171.00] meaning, -[4171.14 --> 4171.62] the source -[4171.62 --> 4171.98] of our -[4171.98 --> 4172.54] purpose is -[4172.54 --> 4173.22] immutable, -[4173.48 --> 4174.74] is unchanging -[4174.74 --> 4176.32] like God -[4176.32 --> 4177.00] is. -[4179.82 --> 4180.56] But you -[4180.56 --> 4181.06] guys know, -[4182.34 --> 4182.80] right, our -[4182.80 --> 4183.98] hearts chase -[4183.98 --> 4184.54] after other -[4184.54 --> 4185.04] ideas, -[4186.10 --> 4186.76] other things, -[4187.38 --> 4188.08] and it's -[4188.08 --> 4188.44] because of -[4188.44 --> 4189.52] that that -[4189.52 --> 4190.58] these enigmas -[4190.58 --> 4191.56] of life -[4191.56 --> 4192.94] challenge us. -[4193.76 --> 4194.34] Again, it's -[4194.34 --> 4194.94] not that life -[4194.94 --> 4196.10] has no meaning, -[4196.28 --> 4196.74] it's that the -[4196.74 --> 4197.52] meaning is often -[4197.52 --> 4197.98] beyond our -[4197.98 --> 4198.40] grasp. -[4199.36 --> 4200.18] Life is a -[4200.18 --> 4201.78] gift, but -[4201.78 --> 4202.06] it is -[4202.06 --> 4203.36] fleeting, it -[4203.36 --> 4204.14] is mysterious, -[4204.64 --> 4205.42] and sometimes -[4205.42 --> 4206.96] it is painfully -[4206.96 --> 4208.14] elusive. -[4210.02 --> 4210.34] Jacques -[4210.34 --> 4211.82] Ellul, he -[4211.82 --> 4212.60] captures it -[4212.60 --> 4214.22] perfectly in -[4214.22 --> 4214.76] his comments -[4214.76 --> 4215.70] on Ecclesiastes, -[4215.94 --> 4216.54] he says, -[4216.90 --> 4217.80] in reality, -[4218.18 --> 4218.88] all is -[4218.88 --> 4219.40] vanity. -[4220.72 --> 4221.40] In truth, -[4221.94 --> 4223.18] everything is -[4223.18 --> 4223.62] a gift of -[4223.62 --> 4223.88] God. -[4225.36 --> 4226.06] That's the -[4226.06 --> 4226.36] struggle. -[4227.52 --> 4228.76] Life and -[4228.76 --> 4229.92] meaning is -[4229.92 --> 4230.58] enigmatic. -[4232.30 --> 4232.70] And so, -[4232.90 --> 4233.80] given that, -[4234.16 --> 4235.58] we need our -[4235.58 --> 4236.64] second point -[4236.64 --> 4237.10] today. -[4237.20 --> 4238.08] We need the -[4238.08 --> 4239.06] truth that God's -[4239.06 --> 4240.40] word is both -[4240.40 --> 4241.68] beautiful and -[4241.68 --> 4242.38] good. -[4243.46 --> 4243.98] That's why our -[4243.98 --> 4244.92] text goes on in -[4244.92 --> 4245.52] verse 10, -[4246.02 --> 4246.92] if your Bibles are -[4246.92 --> 4247.84] open, verse 10 -[4247.84 --> 4248.98] says, -[4249.14 --> 4249.56] the teacher -[4249.56 --> 4250.68] searched to find -[4250.68 --> 4251.62] just the right -[4251.62 --> 4253.08] words, and what -[4253.08 --> 4253.82] he wrote was -[4253.82 --> 4255.38] upright and -[4255.38 --> 4255.64] true. -[4255.64 --> 4256.48] Other translations -[4256.48 --> 4257.28] there say the -[4257.28 --> 4257.94] teacher searched -[4257.94 --> 4259.16] to find words -[4259.16 --> 4260.32] of delight. -[4261.78 --> 4262.40] There is a -[4262.40 --> 4263.08] sense of -[4263.08 --> 4264.48] beauty in -[4264.48 --> 4265.28] the words -[4265.28 --> 4266.46] and in the -[4266.46 --> 4267.20] word of -[4267.20 --> 4267.76] God. -[4268.96 --> 4270.10] The way the -[4270.10 --> 4271.12] Bible actually -[4271.12 --> 4272.18] works is by -[4272.18 --> 4273.28] being beautiful -[4273.28 --> 4274.12] because it is -[4274.12 --> 4275.32] true, and by -[4275.32 --> 4276.06] being true -[4276.06 --> 4276.80] because it is -[4276.80 --> 4277.30] beautiful. -[4277.30 --> 4277.38] beautiful. -[4279.22 --> 4279.68] The belief -[4279.68 --> 4280.34] that God is -[4280.34 --> 4281.18] good and his -[4281.18 --> 4282.02] purposes are -[4282.02 --> 4283.22] good for me -[4283.22 --> 4284.72] persists in -[4284.72 --> 4285.40] the face of -[4285.40 --> 4286.34] the enigmas of -[4286.34 --> 4287.68] life when I -[4287.68 --> 4288.78] recognize that -[4288.78 --> 4290.14] God's words are -[4290.14 --> 4291.26] true and -[4291.26 --> 4291.82] beautiful. -[4291.98 --> 4292.48] When God's -[4292.48 --> 4293.20] word becomes -[4293.20 --> 4294.80] beautiful to me, -[4295.10 --> 4296.28] the ugliness of -[4296.28 --> 4297.60] life finds a -[4297.60 --> 4297.92] balm. -[4300.76 --> 4301.82] But not only -[4301.82 --> 4302.46] are God's words -[4302.46 --> 4303.70] beautiful, -[4304.70 --> 4306.66] sometimes they are -[4306.66 --> 4307.00] hard. -[4308.58 --> 4309.06] Verse 11 -[4309.06 --> 4309.44] says, -[4310.44 --> 4311.16] the words of -[4311.16 --> 4312.12] the wise are -[4312.12 --> 4313.60] like goads. -[4315.10 --> 4315.94] Now, goads -[4315.94 --> 4317.04] were instruments -[4317.04 --> 4318.00] employed by -[4318.00 --> 4318.98] shepherds and -[4318.98 --> 4320.10] herders to keep -[4320.10 --> 4321.22] animals on a -[4321.22 --> 4321.62] path. -[4321.98 --> 4322.74] They were long -[4322.74 --> 4324.12] staffs, sticks, -[4324.32 --> 4325.70] with sharp nails -[4325.70 --> 4326.94] on the end that -[4326.94 --> 4327.80] was used to -[4327.80 --> 4328.68] poke the animal -[4328.68 --> 4329.66] on the left or -[4329.66 --> 4330.70] on the right in -[4330.70 --> 4331.52] order to steer it -[4331.52 --> 4332.90] back towards the -[4332.90 --> 4333.10] middle. -[4333.10 --> 4335.04] right? -[4335.12 --> 4335.76] And you're -[4335.76 --> 4336.26] walking on a -[4336.26 --> 4336.92] path with a -[4336.92 --> 4337.58] shepherd and to -[4337.58 --> 4338.62] the left might -[4338.62 --> 4340.66] be soft soil that -[4340.66 --> 4342.04] would give way -[4342.04 --> 4342.78] underneath the -[4342.78 --> 4343.32] weight of the -[4343.32 --> 4344.10] animal and then -[4344.10 --> 4344.72] the animal would -[4344.72 --> 4346.22] likely fall down -[4346.22 --> 4347.26] into the canyon -[4347.26 --> 4348.14] to its death. -[4348.96 --> 4349.38] And so the -[4349.38 --> 4349.98] shepherd would -[4349.98 --> 4351.60] poke it on the -[4351.60 --> 4352.60] left in order to -[4352.60 --> 4353.94] steer it back to -[4353.94 --> 4354.30] the middle. -[4355.60 --> 4357.02] A little pain in -[4357.02 --> 4358.86] the moment in -[4358.86 --> 4359.72] order to avoid -[4359.72 --> 4361.74] something worse if -[4361.74 --> 4362.68] left to its own -[4362.68 --> 4363.14] devices. -[4365.66 --> 4366.60] So too the -[4366.60 --> 4367.14] word of God. -[4368.82 --> 4369.76] Sometimes the -[4369.76 --> 4370.24] word of God -[4370.24 --> 4371.10] cuts us. -[4372.50 --> 4372.92] Sometimes the -[4372.92 --> 4373.26] word of God -[4373.26 --> 4374.22] exposes our -[4374.22 --> 4375.56] wayward hearts and -[4375.56 --> 4376.82] for a moment it -[4376.82 --> 4379.02] might hurt but -[4379.02 --> 4379.68] it's done to -[4379.68 --> 4381.50] protect us in -[4381.50 --> 4381.90] the end. -[4386.40 --> 4387.72] Proverbs says -[4387.72 --> 4389.72] that better are -[4389.72 --> 4391.36] the wounds of a -[4391.36 --> 4391.80] friend. -[4395.22 --> 4395.88] In order to -[4395.88 --> 4396.18] point out -[4396.18 --> 4396.62] something we -[4396.62 --> 4397.12] might be blind -[4397.12 --> 4401.26] to or miss or -[4401.26 --> 4403.38] refuse to see in -[4403.38 --> 4403.68] our own -[4403.68 --> 4404.28] stubbornness. -[4406.08 --> 4406.88] So too the -[4406.88 --> 4407.08] word. -[4408.78 --> 4409.12] And look, -[4409.76 --> 4410.38] sometimes, -[4410.70 --> 4412.06] sometimes the -[4412.06 --> 4413.16] Bible is -[4413.16 --> 4413.62] offensive. -[4415.50 --> 4416.96] Especially in a -[4416.96 --> 4417.74] time and a -[4417.74 --> 4419.14] culture like this -[4419.14 --> 4420.28] one that calls -[4420.28 --> 4421.38] good what the -[4421.38 --> 4421.96] Bible calls -[4421.96 --> 4422.84] evil and -[4422.84 --> 4423.70] calls evil -[4423.70 --> 4424.08] what the -[4424.08 --> 4424.54] Bible calls -[4424.54 --> 4424.80] good. -[4426.18 --> 4427.28] God's word -[4427.28 --> 4428.90] will cut up -[4428.90 --> 4429.90] our modern -[4429.90 --> 4430.64] ideology. -[4432.08 --> 4433.00] And when that -[4433.00 --> 4433.88] happens, the -[4433.88 --> 4434.56] real temptation -[4434.56 --> 4435.78] for all of us, -[4436.32 --> 4436.90] the real -[4436.90 --> 4437.94] temptation is to -[4437.94 --> 4438.70] make God's -[4438.70 --> 4439.46] word mean -[4439.46 --> 4440.48] something different -[4440.48 --> 4441.26] than what it -[4441.26 --> 4441.54] means. -[4443.28 --> 4444.50] When we don't -[4444.50 --> 4445.06] like what the -[4445.06 --> 4445.90] Bible says, -[4446.16 --> 4447.60] we find ways to -[4447.60 --> 4449.00] change its meaning -[4449.00 --> 4450.06] so it lines up -[4450.06 --> 4450.78] with the world -[4450.78 --> 4451.66] that we want -[4451.66 --> 4452.28] to live in. -[4454.46 --> 4455.16] But what if, -[4455.70 --> 4456.36] what if instead -[4456.36 --> 4457.20] of changing the -[4457.20 --> 4457.86] meaning of the -[4457.86 --> 4460.36] Bible, we -[4460.36 --> 4460.84] allowed the -[4460.84 --> 4461.92] Bible to -[4461.92 --> 4462.98] change the -[4462.98 --> 4463.46] meanings we -[4463.46 --> 4463.88] have made? -[4468.68 --> 4469.34] Instead of -[4469.34 --> 4469.74] finding the -[4469.74 --> 4470.48] Bible offensive, -[4471.48 --> 4472.52] what if we -[4472.52 --> 4472.98] obeyed it? -[4472.98 --> 4476.76] the teacher in -[4476.76 --> 4477.76] Ecclesiastes has -[4477.76 --> 4479.10] a hard word for -[4479.10 --> 4480.00] Christians today, -[4480.08 --> 4480.60] for people who -[4480.60 --> 4481.34] read the Bible. -[4481.74 --> 4483.06] Don't domesticate -[4483.06 --> 4483.60] your Bibles. -[4485.82 --> 4487.08] Live in God's -[4487.08 --> 4487.54] world. -[4488.82 --> 4489.32] And when the -[4489.32 --> 4490.40] Bible prods you, -[4490.62 --> 4491.40] when God's word -[4491.40 --> 4492.36] goads you, -[4493.24 --> 4494.32] try moving where -[4494.32 --> 4494.96] it is pointing. -[4497.00 --> 4498.48] That's where life -[4498.48 --> 4499.16] is found. -[4501.92 --> 4502.32] Instead, -[4502.72 --> 4503.26] though, we -[4503.26 --> 4504.32] try to goad -[4504.32 --> 4504.88] the word of -[4504.88 --> 4505.66] God to make -[4505.66 --> 4506.08] it mean what -[4506.08 --> 4506.58] we want it -[4506.58 --> 4506.78] to. -[4509.08 --> 4509.64] Instead of -[4509.64 --> 4510.08] that, let's -[4510.08 --> 4511.76] move with -[4511.76 --> 4513.10] him towards -[4513.10 --> 4513.76] the heart of -[4513.76 --> 4516.36] God and -[4516.36 --> 4517.54] see if that -[4517.54 --> 4518.66] is how we -[4518.66 --> 4519.30] find beauty -[4519.30 --> 4520.64] in the word, -[4521.34 --> 4522.10] how we find -[4522.10 --> 4522.98] beauty in this -[4522.98 --> 4523.42] life. -[4524.90 --> 4525.02] Right? -[4525.14 --> 4526.26] God always -[4526.26 --> 4527.74] goads towards -[4527.74 --> 4528.66] the beauty of -[4528.66 --> 4530.40] himself and -[4530.40 --> 4531.00] the beauty of -[4531.00 --> 4532.12] life lived in -[4532.12 --> 4532.84] his truth. -[4535.22 --> 4536.02] Which brings -[4536.02 --> 4537.36] us to -[4537.36 --> 4538.90] verse 13. -[4539.80 --> 4539.94] Right? -[4540.04 --> 4540.96] Here is the -[4540.96 --> 4541.28] truth. -[4541.44 --> 4542.38] Here is the -[4542.38 --> 4543.62] conclusion of -[4543.62 --> 4544.12] the matter. -[4544.44 --> 4544.98] Now all has -[4544.98 --> 4545.38] been heard. -[4545.50 --> 4546.10] Here is the -[4546.10 --> 4546.74] conclusion of -[4546.74 --> 4547.08] the matter. -[4547.26 --> 4548.20] Fear God and -[4548.20 --> 4549.18] keep his -[4549.18 --> 4549.78] commandments, -[4550.08 --> 4550.98] for this is -[4550.98 --> 4551.82] the duty of -[4551.82 --> 4552.50] all mankind. -[4554.32 --> 4555.36] Literally there -[4555.36 --> 4556.14] it says, -[4556.14 --> 4557.96] for this is -[4557.96 --> 4559.26] the whole of -[4559.26 --> 4559.70] man. -[4560.40 --> 4560.78] The word -[4560.78 --> 4561.44] duty is -[4561.44 --> 4562.14] supplied by -[4562.14 --> 4562.82] the translators -[4562.82 --> 4563.30] to make it -[4563.30 --> 4563.64] fit with -[4563.64 --> 4564.24] English grammar -[4564.24 --> 4565.34] rules, to -[4565.34 --> 4565.64] give it a -[4565.64 --> 4566.16] verb to -[4566.16 --> 4566.84] hang on to. -[4568.10 --> 4568.96] But I like -[4568.96 --> 4570.44] the idea that -[4570.44 --> 4571.44] the whole of -[4571.44 --> 4572.20] what it means -[4572.20 --> 4573.12] to be human -[4573.12 --> 4574.28] is to fear -[4574.28 --> 4574.82] God and to -[4574.82 --> 4575.14] keep his -[4575.14 --> 4575.50] commandments. -[4576.74 --> 4576.84] Right? -[4576.90 --> 4577.54] To be human -[4577.54 --> 4578.44] is to worship -[4578.44 --> 4579.42] God and -[4579.42 --> 4579.94] obey him. -[4581.10 --> 4582.02] The Westminster -[4582.02 --> 4583.32] Catechism summarizes -[4583.32 --> 4583.96] this point. -[4584.06 --> 4584.46] It asks, -[4584.82 --> 4585.28] what is the -[4585.28 --> 4586.02] chief end of -[4586.02 --> 4586.32] man? -[4586.36 --> 4586.82] And the answer -[4586.82 --> 4587.36] is simple. -[4587.68 --> 4588.90] To glorify God -[4588.90 --> 4589.92] and enjoy him -[4589.92 --> 4590.28] together. -[4591.40 --> 4592.18] What if that -[4592.18 --> 4592.60] was actually -[4592.60 --> 4592.92] true? -[4594.68 --> 4595.50] That your -[4595.50 --> 4597.58] purpose is to -[4597.58 --> 4598.52] glorify God -[4598.52 --> 4599.78] and enjoy him -[4599.78 --> 4600.14] forever. -[4600.92 --> 4602.20] To worship him -[4602.20 --> 4603.00] and to find -[4603.00 --> 4604.66] joy in him. -[4605.66 --> 4606.48] This is the -[4606.48 --> 4607.22] perspective that -[4607.22 --> 4608.12] Ecclesiastes is -[4608.12 --> 4608.84] calling us to -[4608.84 --> 4609.10] take. -[4609.58 --> 4610.14] Especially, -[4610.52 --> 4611.72] especially when -[4611.72 --> 4612.92] the enigmas of -[4612.92 --> 4614.50] life don't -[4614.50 --> 4616.12] match up. -[4618.74 --> 4619.52] Even when -[4619.52 --> 4620.92] everything seems -[4620.92 --> 4621.78] meaningless, -[4622.24 --> 4622.84] even when the -[4622.84 --> 4623.80] struggle or the -[4623.80 --> 4624.44] pain that you -[4624.44 --> 4625.04] live in is -[4625.04 --> 4625.94] all-consuming, -[4626.18 --> 4626.82] it is your -[4626.82 --> 4627.98] purpose to -[4627.98 --> 4629.28] fear God and -[4629.28 --> 4629.90] to keep his -[4629.90 --> 4630.36] commandments. -[4631.72 --> 4632.34] And in fact, -[4632.44 --> 4633.04] I would suggest -[4633.04 --> 4634.06] to you, it is -[4634.06 --> 4635.08] the persistence -[4635.08 --> 4636.48] of that belief -[4636.48 --> 4638.28] in you that -[4638.28 --> 4639.32] makes you persist -[4639.32 --> 4639.90] when you don't -[4639.90 --> 4640.36] believe it. -[4641.72 --> 4642.58] right? -[4642.64 --> 4643.00] It's that -[4643.00 --> 4645.10] your heart -[4645.10 --> 4645.62] and your -[4645.62 --> 4646.36] imagination -[4646.36 --> 4647.86] cling to the -[4647.86 --> 4648.84] truth of this -[4648.84 --> 4650.74] that when -[4650.74 --> 4652.06] even all of -[4652.06 --> 4652.88] life denies -[4652.88 --> 4654.92] it, you -[4654.92 --> 4655.36] hang on. -[4656.34 --> 4657.34] Because behind -[4657.34 --> 4658.00] that hanging -[4658.00 --> 4658.82] on, of course, -[4658.88 --> 4659.54] is a God -[4659.54 --> 4660.18] who's hanging -[4660.18 --> 4660.92] on to you. -[4661.92 --> 4662.90] A God who's -[4662.90 --> 4663.92] speaking and -[4663.92 --> 4665.40] holding you. -[4666.60 --> 4667.10] And this -[4667.10 --> 4668.36] rightly changes -[4668.36 --> 4669.52] our perspective -[4669.52 --> 4671.06] on everything. -[4671.76 --> 4672.30] And again, I -[4672.30 --> 4672.90] love the way -[4672.90 --> 4673.76] that Gibson -[4673.76 --> 4674.84] summarizes it. -[4675.42 --> 4675.70] And I'm -[4675.70 --> 4676.50] paraphrasing here. -[4676.62 --> 4676.82] He says, -[4677.20 --> 4678.06] why do you -[4678.06 --> 4678.70] need to be a -[4678.70 --> 4679.22] certain kind -[4679.22 --> 4679.78] of employee? -[4681.18 --> 4682.18] Because your -[4682.18 --> 4682.84] purpose is to -[4682.84 --> 4683.36] fear God and -[4683.36 --> 4683.72] keep his -[4683.72 --> 4684.02] commandments. -[4685.62 --> 4686.36] Why do you -[4686.36 --> 4686.90] need to be a -[4686.90 --> 4687.40] certain kind -[4687.40 --> 4687.94] of employer? -[4689.06 --> 4689.88] Because your -[4689.88 --> 4690.50] purpose is to -[4690.50 --> 4691.08] fear God and -[4691.08 --> 4691.52] to keep his -[4691.52 --> 4691.90] commandments. -[4692.80 --> 4693.52] Why do you -[4693.52 --> 4694.18] have to be a -[4694.18 --> 4694.70] certain kind -[4694.70 --> 4695.26] of child? -[4696.20 --> 4696.82] Because you -[4696.82 --> 4697.60] fear God and -[4697.60 --> 4698.14] you know that -[4698.14 --> 4698.68] he has called -[4698.68 --> 4699.70] you to honor -[4699.70 --> 4700.38] your parents. -[4702.42 --> 4702.88] Right? -[4702.94 --> 4703.80] Because everything -[4703.80 --> 4705.62] you do, you -[4705.62 --> 4706.66] do first and -[4706.66 --> 4707.66] foremost for God. -[4707.86 --> 4709.04] That's why you're -[4709.04 --> 4709.90] a particular kind -[4709.90 --> 4710.36] of husband. -[4713.70 --> 4714.66] The beginning -[4714.66 --> 4715.68] and the end of -[4715.68 --> 4717.16] everything you -[4717.16 --> 4717.86] do, of -[4717.86 --> 4719.04] everything you -[4719.04 --> 4720.22] are, is found -[4720.22 --> 4720.82] in your -[4720.82 --> 4722.42] relationship to -[4722.42 --> 4723.26] God. -[4723.26 --> 4727.68] in fearing -[4727.68 --> 4729.92] him and in -[4729.92 --> 4730.66] obeying him. -[4733.42 --> 4734.18] And if that -[4734.18 --> 4734.92] offends you, -[4735.48 --> 4737.48] or maybe it -[4737.48 --> 4737.98] doesn't offend -[4737.98 --> 4738.96] you, if you -[4738.96 --> 4739.52] sit here and -[4739.52 --> 4740.30] think, well that -[4740.30 --> 4740.94] doesn't take into -[4740.94 --> 4741.60] account this. -[4742.44 --> 4743.16] Or you don't -[4743.16 --> 4743.80] know my story, -[4743.94 --> 4744.38] pastor, that -[4744.38 --> 4745.06] doesn't take into -[4745.06 --> 4745.54] account what's -[4745.54 --> 4746.04] going on over -[4746.04 --> 4746.30] here. -[4747.08 --> 4747.90] Or you haven't -[4747.90 --> 4748.46] been through what -[4748.46 --> 4749.02] I've been through. -[4749.16 --> 4750.00] If any of those -[4750.00 --> 4750.76] kinds of responses -[4750.76 --> 4751.50] are welling up in -[4751.50 --> 4752.24] you, you are -[4752.24 --> 4752.94] thinking like a -[4752.94 --> 4753.82] modern contemporary, -[4754.44 --> 4755.70] not like the -[4755.70 --> 4756.52] book of Ecclesiastes -[4756.52 --> 4757.10] wants you to -[4757.10 --> 4758.20] teach and wants -[4758.20 --> 4758.70] you to think. -[4760.02 --> 4760.74] You are thinking -[4760.74 --> 4761.92] with you at the -[4761.92 --> 4763.06] center of your -[4763.06 --> 4763.52] life. -[4763.60 --> 4764.10] But remember, -[4764.26 --> 4765.38] Ecclesiastes is a -[4765.38 --> 4766.60] project of -[4766.60 --> 4767.94] de-centering and -[4767.94 --> 4769.28] re-centering, of -[4769.28 --> 4770.62] de-centering yourself -[4770.62 --> 4771.82] and making God -[4771.82 --> 4772.56] the center. -[4773.34 --> 4774.44] And in doing so, -[4774.56 --> 4775.52] you actually, -[4775.80 --> 4777.68] finally, become -[4777.68 --> 4779.26] the unique person -[4779.26 --> 4779.98] that you were -[4779.98 --> 4780.70] always meant to -[4780.70 --> 4781.00] be. -[4782.24 --> 4783.10] That's the -[4783.10 --> 4783.42] center. -[4784.54 --> 4786.02] He's the -[4786.02 --> 4786.36] center. -[4789.02 --> 4790.20] And then lastly, -[4790.44 --> 4791.14] verse 14. -[4792.58 --> 4793.10] For God will -[4793.10 --> 4794.02] bring every -[4794.02 --> 4795.08] deed into -[4795.08 --> 4795.66] judgment, -[4796.78 --> 4797.54] including every -[4797.54 --> 4798.16] hidden thing, -[4798.36 --> 4798.86] whether it is -[4798.86 --> 4800.32] good or -[4800.32 --> 4800.64] evil. -[4802.52 --> 4804.18] The final gift -[4804.18 --> 4805.38] of God's word -[4805.38 --> 4806.22] to us, the -[4806.22 --> 4807.48] final reflection -[4807.48 --> 4808.50] from the teacher -[4808.50 --> 4809.78] of Ecclesiastes, -[4809.78 --> 4810.00] Ecclesiastes, -[4810.20 --> 4811.18] takes us back -[4811.18 --> 4811.64] to the very -[4811.64 --> 4812.62] beginning of -[4812.62 --> 4813.86] this message. -[4814.38 --> 4815.52] Death and -[4815.52 --> 4816.86] judgment are -[4816.86 --> 4817.50] certain. -[4820.44 --> 4821.18] And so live -[4821.18 --> 4821.64] like it. -[4824.04 --> 4824.56] That's the -[4824.56 --> 4825.30] final preparation -[4825.30 --> 4825.94] that God's word -[4825.94 --> 4826.42] gives us. -[4826.76 --> 4827.44] And in making -[4827.44 --> 4828.08] this point, -[4828.46 --> 4829.30] Gibson tells this -[4829.30 --> 4830.00] story, and it's a -[4830.00 --> 4830.64] story that as I -[4830.64 --> 4831.22] read it the first -[4831.22 --> 4832.24] time, I can relate -[4832.24 --> 4832.98] to it because I -[4832.98 --> 4833.76] have had the same -[4833.76 --> 4834.10] dream. -[4834.20 --> 4834.72] And I suspect -[4834.72 --> 4835.58] maybe some of you -[4835.58 --> 4836.54] have had a version -[4836.54 --> 4837.24] of this dream -[4837.24 --> 4837.96] yourselves. -[4838.72 --> 4840.76] But I, I don't -[4840.76 --> 4841.42] want to say often -[4841.42 --> 4842.00] because that would -[4842.00 --> 4842.96] belie my anxiety, -[4843.14 --> 4844.96] but I regularly -[4844.96 --> 4846.72] have this dream -[4846.72 --> 4848.58] where I wake up -[4848.58 --> 4850.32] and it's a church, -[4850.36 --> 4851.04] and I'm in a church -[4851.04 --> 4852.56] service that I'm -[4852.56 --> 4853.38] supposed to lead. -[4855.04 --> 4856.52] And I have no clue -[4856.52 --> 4857.30] what's going on. -[4858.12 --> 4859.28] I have no idea -[4859.28 --> 4859.94] where I am. -[4860.34 --> 4861.34] I have no idea -[4861.34 --> 4861.92] what the sermon -[4861.92 --> 4863.26] text is, but someone -[4863.26 --> 4864.02] comes down to me -[4864.02 --> 4865.02] who I've never seen -[4865.02 --> 4865.90] before, and they're -[4865.90 --> 4866.60] like, okay, pastor, -[4866.70 --> 4867.38] go ahead and preach. -[4869.00 --> 4869.96] And I have to walk -[4869.96 --> 4871.06] onto the platform -[4871.06 --> 4871.96] and look out -[4871.96 --> 4872.56] these people that I -[4872.56 --> 4873.38] have no idea who -[4873.38 --> 4874.34] they are, but I can -[4874.34 --> 4875.52] feel the expectation -[4875.52 --> 4876.80] coming from them. -[4877.06 --> 4877.96] I don't even have a -[4877.96 --> 4879.56] Bible or an iPad or -[4879.56 --> 4880.68] a phone in front of -[4880.68 --> 4881.90] me to, what am I -[4881.90 --> 4882.16] to do? -[4882.30 --> 4883.28] And then, praise -[4883.28 --> 4884.22] Jesus, I wake up -[4884.22 --> 4884.92] and it's all a dream. -[4892.72 --> 4895.28] Now, when you wake -[4895.28 --> 4896.60] up, you realize, -[4897.68 --> 4899.16] I didn't miss the -[4899.16 --> 4899.50] deadline. -[4900.50 --> 4901.84] I didn't screw up -[4901.84 --> 4902.38] completely. -[4903.52 --> 4904.60] Things are still -[4904.60 --> 4906.18] okay. -[4906.36 --> 4907.98] There's time to get -[4907.98 --> 4908.64] ready. -[4910.82 --> 4911.60] Gibson says, -[4911.72 --> 4912.50] Ecclesiastes -[4912.50 --> 4915.44] tells us that a day -[4915.44 --> 4917.04] is coming when -[4917.04 --> 4918.20] people will discover -[4918.20 --> 4919.86] that they are not -[4919.86 --> 4920.88] ready for the most -[4920.88 --> 4922.26] important event of the -[4922.26 --> 4923.42] world, and this time -[4923.42 --> 4924.78] it won't be a dream. -[4926.78 --> 4927.96] You won't wake up -[4927.96 --> 4928.76] and find out there's -[4928.76 --> 4929.44] still more time. -[4931.18 --> 4932.50] For so many people -[4932.50 --> 4933.56] in the world today, -[4933.86 --> 4934.96] life has become one -[4934.96 --> 4936.48] long exercise of -[4936.48 --> 4937.98] avoiding reality and -[4937.98 --> 4938.94] ignoring the truth -[4938.94 --> 4940.10] that death and -[4940.10 --> 4941.44] judgment are coming. -[4942.52 --> 4943.50] And the words of the -[4943.50 --> 4944.46] teacher, the word of -[4944.46 --> 4945.84] God, is meant to be a -[4945.84 --> 4947.48] goad that shakes you -[4947.48 --> 4947.96] awake. -[4949.44 --> 4950.82] That shakes you from -[4950.82 --> 4952.66] your spiritual slumber -[4952.66 --> 4954.62] that ends the dream -[4954.62 --> 4955.24] that you have been -[4955.24 --> 4956.62] hiding in while there -[4956.62 --> 4957.48] is still time. -[4960.88 --> 4961.80] And if you're a -[4961.80 --> 4964.60] Christian today, make -[4964.60 --> 4965.82] sure you hear this. -[4967.46 --> 4969.04] Because for the -[4969.04 --> 4971.28] Christian, in this -[4971.28 --> 4972.54] moment, in this -[4972.54 --> 4973.80] reality of waking from -[4973.80 --> 4975.30] that slumber, there is -[4975.30 --> 4976.50] no fear. -[4976.50 --> 4976.58] fear. -[4978.64 --> 4980.52] There is no fear -[4980.52 --> 4982.08] because of who -[4982.08 --> 4983.54] Jesus is and what -[4983.54 --> 4984.88] Jesus has done. -[4985.22 --> 4986.36] The teacher says -[4986.36 --> 4988.10] throughout that there -[4988.10 --> 4989.96] is no gain for all -[4989.96 --> 4991.18] the toil to be had -[4991.18 --> 4991.88] under the sun. -[4992.60 --> 4993.20] This is a message -[4993.20 --> 4993.90] over and over and -[4993.90 --> 4994.48] over again through -[4994.48 --> 4995.04] Ecclesiastes. -[4995.18 --> 4996.52] There is no gain for -[4996.52 --> 4997.94] all the toil to be had -[4997.94 --> 4998.50] under the sun. -[4998.76 --> 4999.46] But the Apostle -[4999.46 --> 5001.24] Paul, the Apostle -[5001.24 --> 5002.12] Paul in Philippians -[5002.12 --> 5003.56] 1.21 says, -[5003.56 --> 5005.24] For me to live is -[5005.24 --> 5007.06] Christ and to die -[5007.06 --> 5009.28] is gain. -[5012.84 --> 5013.98] The Apostle Paul -[5013.98 --> 5015.08] says that we can -[5015.08 --> 5016.82] labor in the Lord -[5016.82 --> 5018.14] for in Him our -[5018.14 --> 5019.56] labors are not -[5019.56 --> 5022.10] in vain. -[5023.30 --> 5024.78] We can labor for -[5024.78 --> 5026.02] Christ while we -[5026.02 --> 5027.32] yet live and we -[5027.32 --> 5028.28] can live with -[5028.28 --> 5029.56] Christ even when -[5029.56 --> 5030.16] we die. -[5030.24 --> 5030.84] That's why there's -[5030.84 --> 5032.10] no fear here for -[5032.10 --> 5033.02] you and for me -[5033.02 --> 5033.72] who believe. -[5034.12 --> 5034.88] Because Jesus -[5034.88 --> 5035.76] lived the life I -[5035.76 --> 5036.32] should have lived. -[5036.52 --> 5037.54] Because Jesus died -[5037.54 --> 5038.44] the death that I -[5038.44 --> 5038.74] deserve. -[5038.84 --> 5040.04] Because Jesus took -[5040.04 --> 5041.88] my sin, took your -[5041.88 --> 5043.34] sin, and took your -[5043.34 --> 5045.38] shame, took my pain, -[5045.56 --> 5046.72] and gave me His -[5046.72 --> 5047.86] righteousness and -[5047.86 --> 5048.50] His glory. -[5048.80 --> 5050.12] Because He loved me -[5050.12 --> 5051.44] when I was His -[5051.44 --> 5052.14] enemy. -[5053.50 --> 5053.62] Right? -[5053.68 --> 5054.78] Not only do we not -[5054.78 --> 5055.80] have to fear death -[5055.80 --> 5056.90] and judgment because -[5056.90 --> 5058.10] He was judged in -[5058.10 --> 5059.12] your place and He -[5059.12 --> 5060.30] was found perfect. -[5060.58 --> 5061.68] He died in your -[5061.68 --> 5062.84] place and you have -[5062.84 --> 5063.58] been raised with -[5063.58 --> 5065.00] Him in newness of -[5065.00 --> 5066.16] life by grace -[5066.16 --> 5066.86] through faith. -[5067.36 --> 5068.98] But even, even -[5068.98 --> 5070.70] now in the enigmas -[5070.70 --> 5071.76] of life that -[5071.76 --> 5073.54] persist, right now, -[5073.86 --> 5075.96] today, you, you -[5075.96 --> 5077.86] have a God who is -[5077.86 --> 5079.62] with you and for -[5079.62 --> 5080.00] you. -[5081.38 --> 5082.94] Even in the darkest -[5082.94 --> 5084.72] night of your soul, -[5084.94 --> 5086.62] you have hope. -[5086.62 --> 5086.68] hope. -[5087.94 --> 5089.32] Because you have a God -[5089.32 --> 5091.14] who has overcome the -[5091.14 --> 5091.50] darkness. -[5091.70 --> 5091.90] Amen? -[5093.78 --> 5095.64] Even as you count all -[5095.64 --> 5097.36] the despairs of this -[5097.36 --> 5099.12] present moment, hope -[5099.12 --> 5101.00] is not lost. -[5103.30 --> 5106.00] I love the way that -[5106.00 --> 5107.70] Wendell Berry put it. -[5108.98 --> 5110.00] Wendell Berry says, -[5110.00 --> 5112.76] A person who marks -[5112.76 --> 5114.32] his trial into -[5114.32 --> 5116.12] despair remembers -[5116.12 --> 5120.20] hope and thus has -[5120.20 --> 5124.24] hope, even if only a -[5124.24 --> 5124.44] little. -[5126.74 --> 5128.84] To live backwards means -[5128.84 --> 5130.82] facing death and -[5130.82 --> 5132.12] judgment honestly. -[5133.12 --> 5135.04] It means fearing God -[5135.04 --> 5136.22] and obeying His -[5136.22 --> 5136.74] commands. -[5136.74 --> 5137.80] And it means -[5137.80 --> 5139.86] receiving life as -[5139.86 --> 5142.38] a gift, even when -[5142.38 --> 5143.78] it doesn't make -[5143.78 --> 5144.50] sense. -[5144.90 --> 5145.72] Because one day, -[5146.24 --> 5148.28] one day, it -[5148.28 --> 5148.52] will. -[5149.76 --> 5151.04] That's the hope of -[5151.04 --> 5152.56] the gospel for you. -[5153.60 --> 5155.90] And that, that is -[5155.90 --> 5157.10] the message that the -[5157.10 --> 5159.14] world needs to hear. -[5159.88 --> 5160.16] Amen? -[5161.00 --> 5162.04] Let's pray together. -[5166.74 --> 5174.74] God of this life, -[5175.96 --> 5177.34] God of this moment, -[5178.30 --> 5180.50] you are sovereign -[5180.50 --> 5183.48] over the enigmas of -[5183.48 --> 5184.62] this present darkness. -[5184.88 --> 5186.92] You are sovereign over -[5186.92 --> 5188.64] the experience of -[5188.64 --> 5190.32] meaninglessness in this -[5190.32 --> 5191.96] moment when we pursue -[5191.96 --> 5193.32] things other than you. -[5193.50 --> 5194.50] Lord God, open our -[5194.50 --> 5196.64] eyes, goad us back to -[5196.64 --> 5197.96] the path of life. -[5206.24 --> 5207.44] Where else shall we -[5207.44 --> 5208.12] go, Lord? -[5209.04 --> 5210.46] For you are the -[5210.46 --> 5211.76] words of eternal -[5211.76 --> 5212.78] life. -[5214.36 --> 5215.46] In Jesus' name we -[5215.46 --> 5215.72] pray. -[5216.78 --> 5217.16] Amen. -[5218.16 --> 5218.42] Amen. -[5226.64 --> 5230.30] I invite you to -[5230.30 --> 5231.24] stand with us. -[5231.24 --> 5231.62] Amen. -[5231.62 --> 5261.60] Thank you. -[5261.62 --> 5286.62] Let me hide my sound in thee. Let the water and the blood from thy wounded side which flowed be of sin the double cure. -[5286.62 --> 5292.62] Save from love and make me pure. -[5292.62 --> 5322.62] -[5322.62 --> 5334.62] All for sin could not atone. Thou must save and thou alone. -[5334.62 --> 5348.62] Nothing in my hand I bring. Simply to the cross I cling. -[5348.62 --> 5360.62] Naked come to thee for dress. Helpless look to thee for grace. -[5360.62 --> 5372.62] Fall I to the fountain fly. Wash me, Savior, or I die. -[5372.62 --> 5390.08] Jesus holy, pure and lovely, King of mercy. -[5390.08 --> 5412.08] You are Jesus holy, pure and lovely, King of mercy. -[5412.08 --> 5421.08] While I draw this fleeting breath. -[5421.08 --> 5427.08] When my eyes still close in death. -[5427.08 --> 5433.08] When I soar to worlds unknown. -[5433.08 --> 5439.08] See thy love, thy judgment flow. -[5439.08 --> 5445.08] Rock of ages, cleft for me. -[5445.08 --> 5451.08] Let me hide myself in thee. -[5451.08 --> 5458.08] O Jesus holy, King of mercy. -[5458.08 --> 5468.08] O Jesus holy, King of mercy. -[5468.08 --> 5469.08] King of mercy. -[5469.08 --> 5470.08] You are Jesus holy, pure and lovely, King of mercy. -[5470.08 --> 5475.08] You are Jesus holy, pure and lovely, King of mercy. -[5475.08 --> 5476.08] Hope of mercy, hope of mercy. -[5476.08 --> 5480.08] Jesus holy, pure and lovely, King of mercy. -[5480.08 --> 5482.08] Hope of mercy, hope of glory. -[5482.08 --> 5485.08] Jesus holy, pure and lovely, King of mercy. -[5485.08 --> 5490.08] Jesus holy, pure and lovely, King of mercy. -[5490.08 --> 5495.08] Rock of ages, cleft for me. -[5495.08 --> 5504.08] Let me hide myself in thee. -[5504.08 --> 5517.08] Let me hide myself in thee. -[5517.08 --> 5530.08] As you go into this week full of enigmas, meaninglessness, and vanities, know that you go as those who are hid in Christ. -[5530.08 --> 5534.08] You go as those who are blessed by God. -[5534.08 --> 5543.08] So we receive his blessing in the promise of God's true and sure word to us. -[5543.08 --> 5546.08] Following our worship, there will be a time of fellowship. -[5546.08 --> 5547.08] Encourage you to stick around. -[5547.08 --> 5550.08] Have some good, meaningful conversation with people. -[5550.08 --> 5554.08] Ask someone how they have seen God at work in their life. -[5554.08 --> 5559.08] If you would like to meet someone for prayer, there will be people available who have yellow name tags on. -[5559.08 --> 5561.08] I think there will be someone up here. -[5561.08 --> 5563.08] They would love to meet you and pray with you. -[5563.08 --> 5569.08] And then again, if you would like to sign up for a care group, please meet me at the Connect booth in the back there. -[5569.08 --> 5572.08] Receive the blessing of God for this week. -[5572.08 --> 5578.08] God, go before you to lead you. -[5578.08 --> 5581.08] God, go behind you to protect you. -[5581.08 --> 5583.08] God, go beneath you to support you. -[5583.08 --> 5586.08] And God, go beside you to befriend you. -[5586.08 --> 5589.08] Do not be afraid. -[5589.08 --> 5592.08] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5592.08 --> 5594.08] Do not be afraid. -[5594.08 --> 5600.08] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5600.08 --> 5601.08] Amen. -[5601.08 --> 5602.08] Amen. -[5602.08 --> 5612.08] You're the Lion of Judah, the Lamb who was slain. -[5612.08 --> 5628.08] You ascended to heaven and ever more will reign. -[5628.08 --> 5631.08] At the end of the age with the earth. -[5631.08 --> 5639.80] the earth you reclaim we will gather the nations before you and the eyes of all men will be fixed -[5639.80 --> 5652.68] on the lamb who was crucified with wisdom and mercy and justice you'll reign at your father's side -[5652.68 --> 5654.44] and the angels will cry -[5654.44 --> 5662.36] hail the lamb who was slain for the world -[5662.36 --> 5672.92] rule in power and the earth will reply you shall reign -[5675.32 --> 5680.92] as the king of all kings and the lord of all lords -[5684.44 --> 5693.80] there's a shield in our hand and a sword at our side there's a fire in our spirits that cannot be -[5693.80 --> 5701.40] denied as the father has told us for these you have died for the nations who gather before you -[5701.40 --> 5710.76] and the ears of all men need to hear of the lamb who was crucified -[5710.76 --> 5716.76] who descended to hell yet was raised up to reign at his father's side -[5716.76 --> 5722.12] and the angels will cry -[5722.12 --> 5726.12] hail the lamb -[5726.12 --> 5728.12] who was saved for the world -[5728.12 --> 5730.12] rule in power -[5730.12 --> 5734.12] and the earth will reply -[5734.12 --> 5738.12] you shall reign -[5738.12 --> 5751.48] reign -[5751.48 --> 5752.60] as the king of all kings and the lord of all lords -[5752.60 --> 5753.48] and the angels will cry -[5753.48 --> 5755.48] hail the lamb -[5755.48 --> 5757.48] who was slave for the world -[5757.48 --> 5759.48] rule in power -[5759.48 --> 5761.48] and the earth will reply -[5761.48 --> 5766.84] you shall reign -[5766.84 --> 5770.84] as the king of all kings and the lord of all lords -[5770.84 --> 5776.84] as the king of all kings and the lord of all lords -[5776.84 --> 5780.20] go shall the king of all kings and the lord of all kings and ham -[5780.20 --> 5782.80] who wasdrawing and christ -[5782.80 --> 5784.48] will march -[5784.48 --> 5788.02] with all kings and trick -[5788.16 --> 5792.20] will konstant to the king of all kings and the lord of all kings and lo유를 -[5792.20 --> 5793.40] who prose Dazu -[5793.40 --> 5797.00] will 불� a confess -[5797.56 --> 5800.08] will draw -[5800.08 --> 5802.36] will -[5802.36 --> 5804.56] will -[5804.56 --> 5806.56] Amen. -[5834.56 --> 5836.56] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, September 7, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, September 7, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d2e569a8b3c1a5fc120bf979f1cf3f950bee439c..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, September 7, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,115 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction and participant welcome -• Game: "Greasiest, Grossest Hair" competition -• Happy birthday to Taylor Cheese -• Church service preparations (stretching, yawning with mouth closed) -• Passing of the king peppermint baton during service -• Passing of the peppermints during a church service -• Hans and Franz deep lunch exercise demonstration -• Concerns about Hans' health and age -• Discussion of Hans transitioning to senior citizen movement coaching at Elam Village -• Reaction from the audience and farewell to Hans after 10 years leading Reactivate -• Trinity Western University features personal mentors, world-renowned professors, hands-on learning, and elite internships -• Reactivate 2025 is a weekend event with volunteer efforts from approximately 80 people -• The event's success relies on various teams, including kitchen volunteers, AV crew, and planning team -• A church, Emanuel CRC, hosted the event for the third year in a row, providing space and hospitality -• Youth leaders and youth attendees were recognized and thanked for their contributions to the weekend -• Introductions and acknowledgments -• Announcement of the Mexico mission sign-up -• Invitation to stand together and pass the peace of Christ -• Call to worship with Psalm 34 -• Introduction of speakers Joshua and Jordan, leaders for the Reactivate weekend -• Singing a song based on the Lord's Prayer -• Prayers and hymns to God -• Reflection on God's kindness and grace -• Requests for forgiveness and healing -• Praise and worship of God's kingdom and glory -• Encouragement to lift one's voice in prayer and praise -• Reference to Jesus as a source of hope and salvation -• Praising God in all circumstances -• Confession and praise through Psalm 51 -• The importance of a broken spirit and contrite heart -• Seeking to please God, not just with sacrifice or offerings, but with a genuine heart -• Recognizing the tendency to wander away from God and seeking to be sealed for His purpose -• Asking God to be one's vision, best treasure, and everything else in life. -• Worship song "Be Thou my wisdom" -• Reflection on the power of the Spirit and conforming to God's likeness -• Gratitude for formation work done during the weekend retreat -• Prayer for continued spiritual growth and kingdom advancement -• Hosts' gratitude for partnering churches and special guests -• Invitation to share about World Renew, an international development arm of the CRC Church -• Acknowledgement of challenges in the charitable sector due to funding cuts -• Emphasis on investing in youth spirituality and leadership -• Funding cut for a joint program with a major player -• Impact on people's lives due to funding cuts and global economic turmoil -• Church support for World Renew ministry over the past 62 years -• Importance of investing in children through programs like World Renew -• Call for continued financial and prayerful support for the ministry -• Offering collection for World Renew and the church's own ministries -• A group is giving a prayer and thanking God for being present in their lives. -• The church's youth are participating in a conference and the speaker prays for them to be inspired by Jesus. -• An elder, Eric, leads the family prayer and mentions upcoming events, including a special general meeting on September 16th to consider a pastor call. -• The group also remembers Rachel Malawoni's grandmother who passed away and asks God to comfort her family. -• Pastor Dave talks about the importance of being like Jesus and invites the congregation to participate in a passage reading from Mark chapter 3. -• Discussion of the name "Boanerges" (sons of thunder) given to Zebedee and his brother John -• Mention of the WWJD (What Would Jesus Do?) bracelet and its purpose as a reminder to ask what Jesus would do in a situation -• Dallas Willard's interpretation that the most important question is not what Jesus would do, but rather what kind of life Jesus would live if he lived my life -• The idea that discipleship is not just about becoming like Jesus, but also about doing the very things he did -• An illustration of apprenticeship in a trade school to demonstrate the goal of discipleship: to be able to do what one's teacher shows them to do -• Discussion of how often people see discipleship as only watching or observing Jesus' ministry, rather than actively participating -• The idea that Jesus invites us to participate in his kingdom ministry and play our part in it -• The diverse group of Jesus' first disciples, including a trader, zealot, fisherman, Roman collaborator, and James and John who were nicknamed "sons of thunder" -• Jesus gathering these 12 disciples as the new Israel to make known that He is the Savior of creation -• The significance of mountaintop events in Scripture, referencing God's call to Moses in Exodus -• Jesus inviting ordinary humans like the disciples into His plan, using them to make His name known despite their limitations and flaws -• Matthew's version of the calling of the first disciples, with Jesus instructing them to proclaim the message that the kingdom of heaven has come near and to heal, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, drive out demons, and freely give as they have received. -• The learning process of the disciples was slow and steady as they observed Jesus' behavior and interactions -• Following Jesus can involve various activities, such as preaching, casting out demons, and serving others -• Being a disciple is not about doing specific tasks, but rather about following Jesus in one's daily life -• Jesus gives different gifts to different people for the sake of the kingdom -• The importance of using one's gifts and talents to serve others and glorify Jesus -• The call to make Jesus known through words and deeds, regardless of feeling equipped or not -• Inviting all people, regardless of age or abilities, to participate in serving Christ and making Him known -• The kingdom of God being present in the lives of those who follow Jesus, even in ordinary tasks and experiences -• The kingdom of God is established through Jesus' resurrection -• Christians have the authority and power to do God's work, despite feeling weak or inadequate -• The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is alive in believers -• Stepping out in faith and sharing one's faith with others can be a source of satisfaction and transformation -• Discipling others, enabling them to see the goodness of Jesus, and helping co-workers find meaning beyond self-interest are examples of God's work through individuals. -• The importance of stepping into the ministry of Jesus and feeling a sense of calling -• Empowerment through God's authority and presence in weakness -• Invitation to fail forward and make mistakes, just like the disciples did with Jesus' guidance -• Importance of trusting in Jesus' strength and Spirit to do what He does -• Encouragement to take risks and try out gifts and talents given by others -• Safe places to fail and be loved in trying to serve Jesus with the gifts given -• Taking small steps towards serving others, such as praying or giving -• Failing forward and learning from mistakes -• A personal story of being prayed for during a time of feeling overwhelmed and empty -• Importance of seeking prayer and intercessory support -• The speaker shares a personal experience of encountering a young man who prayed for them and shared specific, unknown details about their life. -• The speaker was surprised by the accuracy of the young man's words and saw it as a manifestation of God's Spirit at work. -• The speaker reflects on how they wish they could have asked the young man how he developed his gift of intercessory prayer. -• The speaker speculates that the young man likely had early experiences with praying and receiving visions or voices, which he learned to navigate and eventually develop into a spiritual gift. -• The speaker emphasizes the importance of taking "baby steps" in faithfulness to discover God's power and authority at work in one's life. -• Invitation to follow Jesus -• Sufficient grace and authority from God through Jesus' death and resurrection -• Kingdom of God presence available to receive and share -• Prayer for boldness in taking baby steps to demonstrate power and love of Jesus -• Request to not steal God's glory but give all praise, honor, and worship to Jesus -• The speaker expresses their faith and forgiveness through Jesus -• The price of salvation was paid by Jesus, and He was raised to overthrow sin -• The speaker believes they are free from chains and have been redeemed through Christ -• Discussion of the Aaronic Blessing and receiving God's blessing -• Singing of hymns and creeds, including "I Believe in the Name of Jesus Christ" -• Praise and worship to God the Father, Christ the Son, and the Holy Spirit -• Expressions of gratitude and hope for heaven and the return of Jesus -• Reactivate 2025 event wrap-up -• Instructions for departing participants and leaders -• Emmanuel Youth host church responsibilities -• Planning for Reactivate 2026 in Salmon Arm, BC -• Final messages and thanks from the organizers -• Various unrelated comments and phrases in a foreign language -• Praise and worship of God, with phrases such as "Good God Almighty" repeated throughout -• Expression of gratitude for God's mercy and love -• Questioning whether God is good and affirming that He is -• Reiteration of praise and devotion to God at various times of day (morning, noontime, sundown) -• Repetition of the name "Jesus" in relation to these different times of day \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, September 7, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, September 7, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index dabbcc5e8c2e99f25801a8da21158f010c196958..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, September 7, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1934 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.74] Keep my eyes above the waves -[6.74 --> 14.04] My soul will first be your embrace -[14.04 --> 17.48] I am yours -[17.48 --> 22.24] And you are mine -[30.00 --> 59.60] Good morning reactivate -[59.60 --> 61.60] We are just about to get started -[61.60 --> 66.26] I would like to invite reactivate participants to sit nice and close to the front please -[66.26 --> 71.36] The first few rows in this section, this section, this section if you want to but you can't -[71.36 --> 79.16] see the screen as well over there so you might want to move over here just a little tip -[79.16 --> 84.40] Alright so if you're reactivate student and you're sitting near the back please move forward -[84.40 --> 91.40] The first five rows, you think we can fill the first five rows? -[91.40 --> 98.40] Sure you can squish -[98.40 --> 106.06] You don't have to let the chairs define how many people sit on them -[106.06 --> 113.06] Hey reactivate if you are out in the lobby we welcome you in we are about to get started -[113.06 --> 126.02] On a scale of one to ten with one being not tired at all and ten being the most tired you've -[126.02 --> 131.06] ever been in your life please tell me what number you are of how tired you are -[131.06 --> 145.06] Okay, so we got some variety here this is good this is good -[145.06 --> 149.06] Reactivate come on in we are sitting near the front if you are a part of reactivate -[149.06 --> 156.06] Come on in you don't want to miss this so now's the time we are starting -[156.06 --> 176.06] Welcome welcome thank you for joining us reactivate come on in and sit near the front please everyone else fill in behind us -[176.06 --> 183.06] We would love to get started so let's find our seats -[183.06 --> 201.06] Thank you so much there's a row second row here there's a few seats here -[201.06 --> 208.06] I don't know how this got there that's mine I can move it then you can sit there -[208.06 --> 216.06] Hey Kevin are our guests ready I don't know where they are yeah -[216.06 --> 223.06] I'm ready for them if they're ready for us -[223.06 --> 231.06] All right are we ready reactivate are we ready can we get started one more time I can't hear you are we ready all right -[231.06 --> 238.06] Let's welcome on the count of three count with me here three two one Hans and Spawns -[238.06 --> 245.06] My name is Hans and this is Spawns and we are here to pump you up -[245.06 --> 260.06] So I hope you all had a really great time at the Learn It events and the Live It events yesterday -[260.06 --> 267.06] So you have all been living together for three days and maybe some of you have really crazy hair right now -[267.06 --> 275.06] So your youth leaders choose one person from your church to come on up who has the greasiest grossest hair -[275.06 --> 291.06] The greasiest grossest hair in your group send them up we will judge them -[291.06 --> 295.06] We will judge them come on up we will judge who has the grossest hair -[295.06 --> 297.06] The leader decides -[297.06 --> 298.06] The leader decides -[298.06 --> 300.06] Yes that's some come right up here -[300.06 --> 302.06] Who has greasy gross hair right in the middle -[302.06 --> 316.06] All right so take one step forward -[316.06 --> 321.06] Okay with the screamo meter -[321.06 --> 326.06] Spawns is going to put his hand over the head -[326.06 --> 331.06] You tell us which one you think is the best bed head or maybe a reactivate head -[331.06 --> 336.06] And we will judge by your level of loudness okay so here we go -[336.06 --> 364.06] Okay so Spawns now is going to go very quickly over and we will say -[364.06 --> 369.38] to go very quickly over and we will see how the loudness switches. Okay, here we go. Yeah? -[372.12 --> 383.62] This way. Okay, so we have three prizes and I'm going to give you a prize and you a prize -[383.62 --> 390.78] and you a prize. So let's give it up for everyone here. Thank you so much. If the cooks are needing -[390.78 --> 396.02] more grease they can squeeze out your hair. Great job. Okay. We have a special shout out -[396.02 --> 402.16] to there's a lady here. Her name is Taylor Cheese and she had a birthday yesterday. So -[402.16 --> 411.02] we sing happy birthday one two three. Happy birthday to you. Stand up on your chair Taylor. -[411.02 --> 426.26] Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday dear Taylor. Happy birthday to you. Yay! -[426.26 --> 434.26] Okay, so it's very important. Now we have church. We have church time. We have more birthdays. -[434.26 --> 445.84] Stand up. Today's your birthday? How old are you? She's a teenager! Yay! Is there another birthday? -[445.84 --> 452.62] What's your name? What's your last name? Are you Kevin's daughter? -[452.62 --> 464.08] That's awesome. Is she your oldest? You must be so proud. Are you crying right now? Yes. That's so -[464.08 --> 472.30] great. Happy birthday to you too. Okay, so right now we have to do some stretching before we get into -[472.30 --> 476.62] church because maybe some of you are a little bit tired from not sleeping so much. So there's a very -[476.62 --> 482.86] first one is when we can raising the hands in the singing then you can all we should all be standing -[482.86 --> 489.18] up for the stretching yeah so we can raising the hands for the for the singing and then we can put in a big -[489.18 --> 501.66] stretch yeah yeah so see praising the lord and the big stretch yeah it's so good yeah okay swans what's the next one? -[501.66 --> 507.50] Sometimes you're listening to the pastor and the pastor's been going on for 45 minutes and you think -[507.50 --> 513.18] it's time to wrap this up Dave and you might be feeling a little tired so you're going to yawn but -[513.18 --> 520.22] you don't want anybody to see you so you're gonna do a yawning with your mouth closed stretching the face -[520.22 --> 536.86] oh yeah yeah it's very good for stretching the face now we also have say uh passing of the baton -[536.86 --> 544.06] so we need you sitting down for this one okay and we will be asking for the help from over here and over -[544.06 --> 549.58] here and over here so what you are doing is you are taking the baton which is the king peppermint for the -[549.58 --> 557.02] service these can only be opened once uh pastor green comes up and starts to do his talking then -[557.02 --> 562.54] you will you will open this and pass a peppermint down the line but right now we are passing the -[562.54 --> 567.58] baton so can i sit where you are sitting this is how you pass a baton you get one and you go -[568.62 --> 573.98] behind you give it to the next one they pass it all the way down it's all every row has a roll of -[573.98 --> 582.94] peppermint so here we go we start with you the baton back back yeah great and back with your arm with -[582.94 --> 590.54] your arm back great all the way excellent you have two more passing of the baton -[593.10 --> 593.42] yeah -[593.42 --> 603.58] passing of the batons -[605.90 --> 606.14] yeah -[608.70 --> 617.98] okay we uh remember you are passing the peppermints along with you yeah okay so we have one last -[617.98 --> 623.18] stretch that you are doing and everyone needs to stand up for this one is that is of course the -[623.18 --> 628.86] classic hans and franz deep lunch yeah doing the deep lunch -[633.66 --> 638.38] maybe you are asking yourself why are we doing the deep lunches in church -[639.10 --> 644.62] because maybe there will be a time as the collection plate is being passed along -[644.62 --> 650.62] and somebody drops the collection plate then you can launch and catch it so that we don't lose the -[650.62 --> 657.26] money for the church because they are doing renovations and they may need it yeah so then of course the -[657.26 --> 667.34] advanced version of this the deep lunches you do this switching in one two three oh oh oh hans -[667.34 --> 675.82] oh hans are you all right oh this is not great for the youth to see no i think i pulled the hamstring -[678.62 --> 681.66] you can sit down for one minute while i catch my breath -[685.90 --> 686.46] i'm sorry -[689.50 --> 694.70] yeah the pastor of winter had said that maybe i shouldn't do the switch anymore because my -[694.70 --> 704.78] hamstring was getting tired hans uh swans i don't think so i can keep up with this youth anymore -[704.78 --> 712.70] i'm getting old hans you've been leading reactivate for 10 years now yes and now you are not as uh -[713.50 --> 723.10] young as you want no no you're not as spry as you want to work so maybe it is time in your old age yes -[723.10 --> 732.62] you're not as you want to move on to a new age demographic what are you saying well i hear that -[732.62 --> 740.54] they pay top dollar for movement instructors at retirement homes no no no yeah yeah i'm not so old -[740.54 --> 748.54] yet swans i said i need to go to the senior home i am hans from the hans and franco one time i was -[748.54 --> 756.46] leading 10 000 youth in a stadium and they were doing synchronized lunches it was a dream moment in -[756.46 --> 765.26] my life it was not 10 000 youth it was 200 and all of them were posting you on snapchat oh yes but i don't -[765.26 --> 771.90] think that working with senior citizens appeals to me i'm not that old it doesn't appeal to me yet well -[771.90 --> 781.42] then let me appeal to your wallet yes is that actually how much a movement coach makes yeah -[782.06 --> 790.30] and that is monthly too at elam at elam village kevin lobert has never paid me that kind of money -[790.30 --> 800.22] no 10 years of reactivate okay maybe maybe i can see it now yeah hans is putting a hansen france twist at -[800.22 --> 807.82] elam yeah in surrey and then the second campus in in chilevac yeah yeah and we do wheelchair zumba -[808.46 --> 816.62] with abba remixes yes this is a great idea yeah okay reactivate thank you so much for 10 amazing years -[816.62 --> 823.50] next year while you are react while you are reactivating i will be working at elam doing movement -[823.50 --> 831.10] coaching yes thank you so much reactivate for 10 awesome years one more time -[834.54 --> 834.94] thank you -[834.94 --> 848.62] this is the last time that we will be throwing candy at the kids heads -[848.62 --> 858.22] we love you reactivate remember to share with all of your friends -[865.18 --> 870.06] who wants a box bye reactivate goodbye -[873.10 --> 876.86] remember to share with all of your friends -[878.62 --> 882.62] keips -[891.98 --> 896.86] if we will give our money to see you -[896.86 --> 905.58] great -[905.58 --> 935.56] Thank you. -[935.58 --> 965.56] Thank you. -[965.58 --> 995.56] Thank you. -[995.58 --> 1025.56] Thank you. -[1025.58 --> 1055.56] Thank you. -[1055.58 --> 1085.56] Thank you. -[1085.58 --> 1115.56] Thank you. -[1115.58 --> 1145.56] Thank you. -[1145.58 --> 1175.56] Thank you. -[1175.56 --> 1205.54] Thank you. -[1205.54 --> 1206.54] Thank you. -[1206.54 --> 1207.54] Wonderful. -[1207.54 --> 1212.54] Let's do the drum roll. -[1212.54 --> 1213.54] Okay. -[1213.54 --> 1215.54] Tanner Brown. -[1215.54 --> 1216.66] Tanner, are you here? -[1216.76 --> 1217.42] There's Tanner. -[1218.22 --> 1218.72] Sweet. -[1218.72 --> 1220.10] Thank you. -[1220.10 --> 1221.72] Thank you. -[1221.74 --> 1222.48] There we go. -[1230.44 --> 1231.40] Thank you. -[1231.40 --> 1231.80] I'll pass the mic off to Diego. -[1231.80 --> 1231.88] That's a little bit of a semaine. -[1231.88 --> 1232.36] Thank you. -[1232.36 --> 1232.38] Thank you. -[1232.38 --> 1236.88] Thank you. -[1236.88 --> 1239.88] Yeah, alright, that's exciting, right? That's exciting, yeah. -[1239.88 --> 1244.28] Yeah, thank you for having me here. Seemed like a really fun weekend. -[1244.28 --> 1247.96] Last night was super fun. A lot of chocolate chip cookies, so that was awesome. -[1248.76 --> 1251.80] Sarah, if you want to come up and we'll do our giveaway. -[1252.70 --> 1254.30] We'll do another drum roll. -[1256.08 --> 1256.46] Yep. -[1259.34 --> 1260.96] Keep going, keep going. -[1262.76 --> 1265.14] And the winner is -[1265.14 --> 1268.56] Elliot Hogterp. -[1268.56 --> 1270.70] Hogterp. Hogterp. -[1270.70 --> 1272.30] Oh, congratulations, Elliot. -[1272.56 --> 1274.96] Alright, your swag bag is just right over there. -[1277.16 --> 1279.02] Yeah, and now there's going to be another -[1279.02 --> 1281.36] thing that's happening and we're done up here, so -[1281.36 --> 1282.72] thanks for having us. -[1283.62 --> 1283.78] Yeah. -[1285.96 --> 1287.32] Have a good rest of your day. -[1295.14 --> 1300.70] Imagine a university where you can pursue your passion with personal mentors and world-renowned professors who know your name. -[1300.70 --> 1302.12] With hands-on learning and elite internships that prepare you for your career. -[1302.12 --> 1303.12] And now, we're going to be able to pursue your career. -[1303.12 --> 1308.12] Imagine a university where you can pursue your passion with personal mentors and world-renowned professors who know your name. -[1308.12 --> 1313.54] With hands-on learning and elite internships that prepare you for your career. -[1313.54 --> 1315.54] Where you'll find your place and your people. -[1315.54 --> 1317.54] And now, we're going to be able to pursue your career. -[1317.54 --> 1324.54] Imagine a university where you can pursue your passion with personal mentors and world-renowned professors who know your name. -[1324.54 --> 1331.96] With hands-on learning and elite internships that prepare you for your career. -[1331.96 --> 1335.96] Where you'll find your place and your people. -[1335.96 --> 1342.96] Where your big dreams are possible and more achievable than you may think. -[1342.96 --> 1348.96] It's all here at Trinity Western University. -[1348.96 --> 1374.38] Experience a distinctly Christian university education. -[1374.38 --> 1376.38] Where you're equipped to be the light. -[1376.38 --> 1383.86] I'm going to make it brighter. -[1388.80 --> 1391.02] Thank you so much to our schools. -[1391.02 --> 1398.62] Not only for being here this weekend, our Christian universities, but for sponsoring Reactivate and making it possible for us to have this weekend together. -[1399.38 --> 1403.70] Welcome to our final general session of Reactivate 2025. -[1403.70 --> 1409.18] Welcome, especially if you are joining us here for the first time this weekend because you're part of Langley Emanuel CRC. -[1409.18 --> 1416.12] We are so glad that you are here and get to just have a little taste of what this amazing weekend has been like for our youth and youth leaders. -[1416.12 --> 1425.60] This weekend would not be possible with about 80 people who volunteer and give of their time to make it happen. -[1425.60 --> 1435.60] These approximately 80 people have done a number of different things leading up to the weekend and many of them have been here this weekend. -[1435.60 --> 1437.96] And you've seen them and you've interacted with them. -[1437.96 --> 1442.08] So we just want to take a moment to say some thank yous to some specific people. -[1442.08 --> 1446.08] One of the highlights of the weekend, of course, is the food that we eat. -[1446.08 --> 1449.56] We would not be able to enjoy this weekend without sustenance. -[1449.56 --> 1453.56] And so we are grateful to Faye and her amazing team of Kitchen volunteers. -[1453.56 --> 1454.56] So shout out to Faye. -[1454.56 --> 1467.56] And standing right beside her is Rachel, who has coordinated and organized all the other volunteers for the weekend. -[1467.56 --> 1471.16] People who clean and help and set up and take down. -[1471.16 --> 1473.40] So we are thankful for each and every one of you. -[1476.40 --> 1479.96] Matt and Linda and the AV crew at the back, we love you. -[1479.96 --> 1481.04] Thank you for being here. -[1485.32 --> 1491.00] We want to specifically say thank you to this church for hosting us for Reactivate for the last three years. -[1491.16 --> 1492.52] Emanuel, you are amazing. -[1492.78 --> 1493.42] We love you. -[1493.70 --> 1496.26] Thank you for letting us tear apart your building. -[1496.26 --> 1498.66] Well, okay, we didn't do all of this. -[1499.62 --> 1502.66] But, you know, we've probably left a few dents in the last few years. -[1502.66 --> 1509.02] And we are so grateful for your space and your hospitality to us for this weekend, the last three years. -[1509.02 --> 1509.58] Thank you. -[1514.44 --> 1519.56] Our worship leaders this year, Josh, Jordan, and Dave, thank you for being here and leading us in worship. -[1520.02 --> 1521.84] We're looking forward to one last time. -[1521.84 --> 1522.84] Thank you. -[1522.84 --> 1523.84] Thank you. -[1523.84 --> 1524.84] Thank you. -[1524.84 --> 1528.34] And, of course, Kunrad and Seth, we already gave you a shout-out, Kunrad. -[1528.34 --> 1529.24] We are going to miss you. -[1529.24 --> 1530.24] I don't know. -[1530.24 --> 1530.80] Are you here? -[1530.80 --> 1531.48] Kunrad? -[1531.48 --> 1531.92] Seth? -[1531.92 --> 1532.92] No? -[1532.92 --> 1533.92] Yep. -[1533.92 --> 1535.20] Thank you so much. -[1535.20 --> 1536.20] Thank you. -[1536.20 --> 1537.20] Thank you. -[1537.20 --> 1542.70] Youth leaders. -[1542.70 --> 1548.50] If you are here as a youth leader from a church, from this church or from another church, can you please stand up for a minute? -[1548.50 --> 1552.76] If you are a youth leader that has given up your time to be here this weekend. -[1553.90 --> 1555.30] Look at them all. -[1555.48 --> 1558.52] Look at these beautiful people who love you so much. -[1558.52 --> 1563.40] Some of them drove for several hours to be here. -[1563.96 --> 1564.56] Thank you. -[1564.64 --> 1564.98] Thank you. -[1565.04 --> 1565.68] You may be seated. -[1565.82 --> 1566.82] And, of course, youth. -[1567.50 --> 1569.10] We wouldn't be here if you weren't here. -[1569.20 --> 1577.94] And so we're grateful for you being here and being amazing people for us to spend the weekend with, for taking care of one another, for taking care of the space, -[1577.94 --> 1588.26] for being willing to step out in faith if this was a hard thing for you to do to be here this weekend, for being willing to be open to God's voice, to grow in your faith this weekend. -[1588.26 --> 1595.32] And we hope that this is just a reflection of what's going to happen in your life this year as you continue on. -[1596.00 --> 1600.38] The last two people that I'd like to introduce and thank are the Reactivate planning team. -[1600.84 --> 1601.88] So if you guys can come up. -[1603.00 --> 1605.28] Can you see them on camera if they just stand, like, right here? -[1605.36 --> 1606.72] Should they come right on stage with me? -[1606.72 --> 1607.98] Okay. -[1613.50 --> 1615.98] You guys, these are the people that make it happen. -[1615.98 --> 1619.40] Caitlin, Kevin, Ben, Curtis, and myself, Natasha. -[1620.04 --> 1620.78] We love it. -[1621.02 --> 1623.06] We spend all year getting ready for this weekend. -[1623.24 --> 1627.88] It is one of the highlights of our jobs as most of us are youth pastor type people. -[1628.08 --> 1629.04] And it's amazing. -[1629.44 --> 1632.28] And a round of applause for these people. -[1636.72 --> 1638.94] Thank you. -[1639.38 --> 1642.84] And with that, I'd like to hand it over to Pastor Chris from Langley Emanuel CRC. -[1642.90 --> 1645.74] And he's going to bring us into worship this morning. -[1645.98 --> 1646.98] Thank you. -[1646.98 --> 1650.48] Thank you, Natasha. -[1650.48 --> 1652.08] Let's hear it for Natasha as well. -[1652.16 --> 1652.56] Thank you. -[1652.56 --> 1668.64] I just want to take this time and thank you all on behalf of Langley Emanuel for being here and for the amazing stories we've already heard and the way that we have seen God at work. -[1668.64 --> 1677.16] It's our deep prayer that God will continue to work in you and shape you, continue to draw you to himself. -[1677.86 --> 1679.80] We're going to do that in our worship together. -[1679.80 --> 1684.34] And so before we begin our worship in earnest, I have one announcement for Langley Emanuel. -[1684.84 --> 1686.46] And so Langley Emanuel, this one's for you. -[1686.70 --> 1688.08] And maybe East Hill Vernon. -[1688.42 --> 1690.12] I'm not sure, but maybe East Hill Vernon. -[1690.94 --> 1695.16] The Mexico mission sign up is live now. -[1695.52 --> 1700.82] And so every year we send a team to Mexico March 14 to 24 this year. -[1700.90 --> 1705.38] If you are interested in going, please, the sign up is in the e-bulletin or Brandon. -[1705.60 --> 1706.66] Brandon, are you here somewhere? -[1706.86 --> 1707.60] Brandon over there. -[1707.64 --> 1708.38] You can talk to him. -[1708.38 --> 1709.72] He would love to make that happen. -[1710.40 --> 1712.20] That's all the announcements I'm going to make this morning. -[1712.38 --> 1715.98] So I'm going to invite you, as you're able, to stand together. -[1716.60 --> 1727.08] I'm going to usher us into worship with God's greeting because we know that God is in this place this morning as he has been all weekend long in your worship together. -[1727.54 --> 1734.62] Following God's greeting from me, I'm going to invite you to turn to those around you and extend that greeting to everyone here. -[1734.62 --> 1738.88] And so you can do that by passing the peace of Christ, by saying the peace of Christ be with you. -[1738.88 --> 1741.12] You can do that by saying the Lord be with you. -[1741.50 --> 1745.52] If you know the person beside you really well, you can give them a hug. -[1745.80 --> 1747.92] You can shake their hand or a fist bump. -[1748.12 --> 1752.22] If you get those weird eyes from the person beside you, just stay back and say the Lord be with you. -[1752.22 --> 1759.12] Receive the greeting of our good God this morning in our worship. -[1760.12 --> 1771.94] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[1771.94 --> 1774.38] All God's people said, Amen. -[1801.94 --> 1802.84] Please, shame. -[1802.94 --> 1804.94] Rogen IVs, yea? -[1804.94 --> 1805.92] Please, cleanse outside your ... -[1805.92 --> 1835.90] Thank you. -[1835.90 --> 1857.06] Good morning, everybody. Good morning, Reactivate. Good morning, Langley Emanuel. My name is Joshua, as they mentioned. This is Jordan. We've had the privilege of leading all weekends. We're going to start with our call to worship out of Psalm 34. It's going to be on the screen. If you want to read along, I invite you to speak these words out loud together. Starting in verse one. -[1857.06 --> 1867.70] I will bless the Lord at all times. His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes his boast in the Lord. Let the humble hear and be glad. -[1868.44 --> 1872.40] Oh, magnify the Lord with me and let us exalt his name together. -[1872.40 --> 1883.30] I sought the Lord and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant and their faces shall never be ashamed. -[1884.10 --> 1894.82] This poor man cried and the Lord heard him and saved him out of all his troubles. The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him and delivers them. -[1894.82 --> 1901.52] Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good. Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him. -[1902.04 --> 1906.68] Oh, fear the Lord, you his saints. For those who fear him have no lack. -[1907.32 --> 1913.40] The young lions suffer in wanton hunger, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing. -[1913.40 --> 1920.40] We're going to begin this morning singing a song we've sung this weekend based on the Lord's Prayer. -[1921.18 --> 1923.44] And so for those of you, this is going to be the first time hearing it. -[1923.44 --> 1926.42] I'm going to teach you the bridge first and then the chorus and we'll sing it together. -[1927.08 --> 1928.38] So the bridge goes like this. -[1928.38 --> 1934.62] The kingdom is already yours. -[1934.62 --> 1956.98] Here's the chorus. -[1956.98 --> 1986.96] I agree. -[1986.98 --> 2008.46] Good and gracious Father, only is it made. -[2008.46 --> 2015.08] My heart reflects your kindness and it's unhumidity made. -[2015.08 --> 2019.08] You've been given to me today. -[2019.08 --> 2023.08] The bridge you know I need. -[2023.08 --> 2026.08] The bridge for my transgressors. -[2026.08 --> 2030.08] You've forgiven me. -[2030.08 --> 2034.08] As in heaven so on earth. -[2034.08 --> 2038.08] May your kingdom reign in me. -[2038.08 --> 2042.08] As above so on earth. -[2042.08 --> 2044.08] As above so low. -[2044.08 --> 2046.08] As in heaven so near. -[2046.08 --> 2048.08] As in heaven so near. -[2048.08 --> 2050.08] As above so low. -[2050.08 --> 2052.08] As in heaven so near. -[2052.08 --> 2058.08] As above so near. -[2058.08 --> 2064.08] As above so near. -[2064.08 --> 2066.08] So near. -[2066.08 --> 2068.08] Yes. -[2068.08 --> 2070.08] As above so near. -[2070.08 --> 2071.08] God and gracious. -[2071.08 --> 2079.14] Good and gracious, Father, holy is your name. -[2079.14 --> 2085.70] My heart reflects your kindness, never taking it in vain. -[2087.22 --> 2093.34] You've unto me today, but you know I need it. -[2094.24 --> 2099.66] The grace for my transgressors is you forgiving me. -[2099.66 --> 2106.66] The grace for my transgressors is you forgiving me. -[2107.70 --> 2110.36] Is it heaven so unheard? -[2111.26 --> 2113.66] May your kingdom reign in me. -[2114.76 --> 2120.96] There's no love so low until the day your will's complete. -[2121.76 --> 2127.66] I keep praying the same prayer until I'm in and at your feet. -[2127.66 --> 2135.66] There's no love so low as in heaven so in me. -[2139.66 --> 2142.66] So in me. -[2144.66 --> 2146.16] Sing the kingdom. -[2146.16 --> 2148.16] Sing the kingdom. -[2148.16 --> 2149.16] Sing the kingdom. -[2149.16 --> 2150.16] Sing the kingdom. -[2150.16 --> 2153.16] Sing the kingdom is already yours. -[2153.16 --> 2161.46] Oh, power and oh, glory forever and amen. -[2162.46 --> 2167.34] The kingdom is already yours. -[2169.48 --> 2175.54] Oh, power and oh, glory forever and amen. -[2175.54 --> 2176.56] Lift your voice. -[2176.56 --> 2181.84] The kingdom is already yours. -[2183.16 --> 2189.62] Oh, power and oh, glory forever and amen. -[2190.62 --> 2195.40] The kingdom is already yours. -[2197.72 --> 2203.76] Oh, power and oh, glory forever and amen. -[2203.76 --> 2206.22] Sing the kingdom. -[2206.22 --> 2209.22] Sing the kingdom. -[2209.22 --> 2211.68] Sing the kingdom reign in me. -[2211.68 --> 2214.68] There's no birth so low. -[2214.68 --> 2218.14] Till the day your will's complete. -[2218.14 --> 2221.14] I keep praying the same prayer. -[2221.14 --> 2225.14] Till I'm kneeling at your feet. -[2225.14 --> 2228.14] As will it burst over low? -[2228.14 --> 2232.14] Sing the kingdom. -[2232.14 --> 2234.60] Sing the kingdom. -[2234.60 --> 2238.48] The kingdom is already yours. -[2238.48 --> 2243.48] No power and no glory -[2243.48 --> 2246.68] Whatever it may be -[2246.68 --> 2252.48] The kingdom is already yours -[2252.48 --> 2257.48] No power and no glory -[2257.48 --> 2263.48] Whatever it may be -[2263.48 --> 2268.48] Feel the pain -[2268.48 --> 2277.48] As in heaven's order -[2277.48 --> 2281.48] May a kingdom reign in me -[2281.48 --> 2284.48] As above so below -[2284.48 --> 2288.48] Till the day your will's complete -[2288.48 --> 2292.48] I'll keep praying the same prayer -[2292.48 --> 2296.48] Till I'm kneeling at your feet -[2296.48 --> 2299.48] As above so below -[2299.48 --> 2303.48] As in heaven's calling me -[2303.48 --> 2306.48] As above so below -[2306.48 --> 2311.48] As in heaven's calling me -[2311.48 --> 2314.48] As above so below -[2314.48 --> 2315.48] As above so below -[2315.48 --> 2317.48] As above so below -[2317.48 --> 2322.48] Bombs tend to cakes -[2322.48 --> 2338.36] That peace of hope -[2338.36 --> 2343.20] Place your hope and confidence in Jesus. -[2344.20 --> 2347.32] He won't forsake Him. -[2348.96 --> 2351.76] Lester those who seek His face. -[2352.26 --> 2356.50] Open the knee and fix the case on Jesus. -[2357.58 --> 2359.72] They won't be saved. -[2359.72 --> 2363.72] Come on and praise Him. -[2363.72 --> 2368.00] Alone with me. -[2368.64 --> 2372.58] Sing if you love His name. -[2374.60 --> 2380.44] Come on and lift your arms with me. -[2380.44 --> 2386.00] He's worthy of all I pray. -[2387.92 --> 2388.82] Sing the best. -[2388.82 --> 2390.82] Sing the best. -[2390.82 --> 2394.72] Lester those who walk with Him. -[2395.18 --> 2399.58] His hearts are set on pilgrimage with Jesus. -[2400.62 --> 2402.94] They'll see His glory. -[2405.10 --> 2408.10] Lester those who die and live. -[2408.10 --> 2412.76] His joy it is to give it all for Jesus. -[2412.76 --> 2415.76] And for Him only. -[2415.76 --> 2418.76] Oh Jesus. -[2420.62 --> 2422.96] Oh for your glory. -[2424.24 --> 2426.00] Come on and praise. -[2426.82 --> 2429.76] Alone with me. -[2430.76 --> 2435.76] Sing if you love His name. -[2435.76 --> 2436.76] Sing if you love His name. -[2436.76 --> 2442.76] Come on and lift your voice with me. -[2442.76 --> 2445.76] Sing if you love His name. -[2445.76 --> 2447.76] Come on and praise. -[2447.76 --> 2450.76] Come on and lift your voice with me. -[2450.76 --> 2452.76] Sees worthy of all I pray. -[2452.76 --> 2455.76] Come on and lift your voice with me. -[2455.76 --> 2456.76] Him. -[2456.76 --> 2457.76] Sing if you love Him. -[2457.76 --> 2458.76] Sing if you love His name. -[2458.76 --> 2459.76] Sing if you love His name. -[2459.76 --> 2460.76] Sing if you love His name. -[2460.76 --> 2463.76] Come on and lift up your own hands. -[2463.76 --> 2465.76] Come on and lift up your own hands. -[2465.76 --> 2469.76] Cause He's worthy of all I pray. -[2469.76 --> 2474.76] Cause He's worthy of hope, I pray -[2474.76 --> 2480.76] Bless God in the sanctuary -[2480.76 --> 2484.52] Bless God in the fields of plenty -[2484.52 --> 2487.54] Bless God in the darkest valley -[2487.54 --> 2491.44] Every chance I get, I bless your name -[2491.44 --> 2494.44] Bless God with my hands are empty -[2494.44 --> 2497.90] Bless God with the praise that caused me -[2497.90 --> 2500.84] Bless God when nobody's watching -[2500.84 --> 2504.74] Every chance I get, I bless your name -[2504.74 --> 2507.78] Bless God with the weapons for me -[2507.78 --> 2511.12] Bless God with the wounds of all me -[2511.12 --> 2514.22] Bless God cause He goes before me -[2514.22 --> 2517.98] Every chance I get, I bless your name -[2517.98 --> 2520.84] Bless God for me who's the victory -[2520.84 --> 2524.40] Bless God for He's always with me -[2524.40 --> 2527.22] Bless God for He's always worthy -[2527.22 --> 2532.06] Every chance I get, I bless your name -[2532.06 --> 2539.06] Every chance I get, I bless your name -[2539.06 --> 2550.06] Every chance I get, come and praise the Lord with me -[2550.06 --> 2554.90] Sing if you know His name -[2554.90 --> 2562.82] Come and lift your voice with me -[2562.82 --> 2566.90] Cause He's worthy of hope, I pray -[2566.90 --> 2571.74] Come and lift your voice with me -[2571.74 --> 2575.74] Come and lift your voice with me -[2575.74 --> 2581.46] Sing if you know His grace -[2581.46 --> 2585.74] Come and lift your voice with me -[2585.74 --> 2590.58] Lift up your voice with me -[2590.58 --> 2594.58] He's worthy of hope, I pray -[2594.58 --> 2596.58] Come and lift your voice with me -[2596.58 --> 2598.58] Come and lift your voice with me -[2598.58 --> 2600.58] Come and lift your voice with me -[2600.58 --> 2602.58] Come and lift your voice with me -[2602.58 --> 2604.58] Sing if you know His grace -[2604.58 --> 2609.42] If you know His grace -[2609.42 --> 2613.42] Come and lift your voice with me -[2613.42 --> 2618.26] He's worthy of hope, I pray -[2618.26 --> 2627.10] He's worthy of hope, I pray -[2627.10 --> 2631.76] He's worthy of hope, I pray -[2631.76 --> 2634.10] He's worthy of hope, I pray -[2634.10 --> 2640.66] The word for our confession -[2640.66 --> 2644.00] out of Psalm 51 -[2644.00 --> 2646.64] starting in verse 15 -[2646.64 --> 2647.92] I invite you to read with me -[2647.92 --> 2650.56] O Lord, open my lips -[2650.56 --> 2652.82] and my mouth will declare your praise -[2652.82 --> 2655.58] for you do not delight in sacrifice -[2655.58 --> 2656.56] or I would give it -[2656.56 --> 2659.22] you will not be pleased with a burnt offering -[2659.22 --> 2661.42] the sacrifices of God -[2661.42 --> 2662.76] are a broken spirit -[2662.76 --> 2665.44] a broken spirit and contrite heart -[2665.44 --> 2667.40] O God, you will not despise -[2667.40 --> 2680.08] So come now, Father -[2680.08 --> 2692.76] Come now, Father -[2692.76 --> 2696.76] Come now, Father -[2696.76 --> 2699.44] Praise the mountain -[2699.44 --> 2702.12] to my heart -[2702.12 --> 2704.80] to sing thy praise -[2704.80 --> 2707.48] Streams of mercy -[2707.48 --> 2710.16] never ceasing -[2710.16 --> 2712.84] go for songs of -[2712.84 --> 2726.52] GLOB -[2726.52 --> 2728.52] Fixed upon me -[2729.14 --> 2733.32] Mount of thy redeeming love -[2733.32 --> 2740.52] Here I raise my Ebenezer -[2741.04 --> 2745.10] Hither by thy help I know -[2745.10 --> 2750.32] And I hope I could pleasure -[2750.32 --> 2754.52] Safely to arrive at you -[2754.52 --> 2760.12] Jesus sought me when a stranger -[2760.12 --> 2764.68] Wandering from the fold of God -[2764.68 --> 2769.76] He to rescue me from danger -[2769.76 --> 2774.76] Interposed his precious mind -[2774.76 --> 2775.68] Oh -[2775.68 --> 2785.84] Lord to praise how great a debtor -[2786.72 --> 2790.76] Daily I'm constrained to be -[2790.76 --> 2796.22] Let thy goodness like a fetter -[2796.22 --> 2800.38] By my wandering heart to thee -[2800.38 --> 2805.88] He's prone to wander Lord I feel it -[2805.88 --> 2810.26] Prone to leave the God I love -[2810.26 --> 2813.10] Here's my heart Lord -[2813.10 --> 2815.46] Take and seal it -[2815.46 --> 2819.76] Seal it for thy cause I will -[2819.76 --> 2825.16] He's prone to wander Lord I feel it -[2825.16 --> 2829.42] Prone to leave the God I love -[2829.42 --> 2831.92] Here's my heart Lord -[2831.92 --> 2834.70] Take and seal it -[2834.70 --> 2838.92] Seal it for thy cause I will -[2838.92 --> 2853.58] Be thou my vision -[2853.58 --> 2856.52] O Lord of my heart -[2856.52 --> 2865.58] Be thou my vision -[2865.58 --> 2870.18] O Lord of my heart -[2870.18 --> 2876.18] Lord be all else to me -[2876.18 --> 2880.24] Save that thou art -[2880.24 --> 2883.90] Thou my best -[2883.90 --> 2884.56] O oh -[2884.56 --> 2886.42] By me -[2886.42 --> 2886.66] B зав匂 -[2886.66 --> 2887.50] O -[2887.50 --> 2887.56] I�� -[2887.56 --> 2887.78] O -[2887.78 --> 2887.80] O -[2887.80 --> 2888.78] By düşer -[2889.44 --> 2890.58] O -[2890.58 --> 2890.98] By -[2890.98 --> 2892.14] Quiddal -[2892.14 --> 2892.54] O -[2892.54 --> 2892.72] Bear -[2892.72 --> 2892.80] Or -[2892.92 --> 2893.76] O -[2893.88 --> 2894.24] Slipper -[2894.24 --> 2894.88] The -[2894.88 --> 2895.36] De -[2895.36 --> 2895.94] To -[2895.94 --> 2896.44] O -[2896.44 --> 2905.66] Be Thou my wisdom. -[2926.44 --> 2934.88] Thou my great Father and I love You so. -[2934.88 --> 2943.88] Thou beneath me dwelling and I will be. -[2947.48 --> 2948.70] Yes, we are. -[2951.70 --> 2954.04] Yes, we are. -[2956.44 --> 2959.98] Sing Riches I. -[2959.98 --> 2960.00] Sing Riches I. -[2962.00 --> 2971.90] Riches I hear no man's empty praise. -[2972.68 --> 2981.20] Thou mine inheritance now and always. -[2981.20 --> 2990.76] Thou and Thou only the first in my heart. -[2990.76 --> 3002.22] My King of heaven, my treasure, O God. -[3002.32 --> 3009.44] Be mine, everything be my delight. -[3009.44 --> 3018.00] Be Jesus my glory, my soul, satisfy. -[3019.00 --> 3028.00] O God be mine, everything be my delight. -[3028.00 --> 3037.56] Be Jesus my glory, my soul, satisfy. -[3037.56 --> 3050.12] I King of heaven, my victory won. -[3050.12 --> 3059.96] May I reach heaven's choice, O bright heaven's heart. -[3059.96 --> 3069.52] Lord of my heart, whatever before. -[3069.52 --> 3076.98] Still be my vision, O Lord. -[3076.98 --> 3078.98] O Lord. -[3078.98 --> 3086.08] Still be my vision, O Lord. -[3086.08 --> 3087.08] O Lord. -[3087.08 --> 3092.64] Lord of my heart. -[3092.64 --> 3093.04] O Lord. -[3093.04 --> 3099.34] Yes, we confess that for that to be true, we need the power of Your Spirit dwelling in our midst. -[3099.34 --> 3107.88] That we don't want to just reflect Your image in Word, but we want our lives and our deeds to reflect that as well. -[3109.14 --> 3116.66] And that by coming under Your Word, singing Your Word, praying together, we can greater conform into Your likeness. -[3116.66 --> 3125.38] And so I thank You for the formational work You have done this weekend in the lives across generations. -[3125.62 --> 3130.44] I pray that that would continue this morning, that it would carry far, far beyond this weekend. -[3131.40 --> 3139.88] That there would be tangible points of Your kingdom advancing that are pointed back to moments of surrender made here. -[3140.62 --> 3141.58] We love You. -[3141.70 --> 3142.52] We bless Your name. -[3142.58 --> 3143.80] We pray in Your name, Jesus. -[3144.80 --> 3145.24] Amen. -[3145.24 --> 3145.42] Amen. -[3146.02 --> 3146.34] Amen. -[3146.56 --> 3147.84] Church, you can have a seat. -[3162.08 --> 3162.92] Good morning. -[3163.60 --> 3164.04] Sorry. -[3165.96 --> 3170.32] We've been really blessed to have these guys lead us in worship, so it's been a wonderful weekend with them. -[3170.32 --> 3179.94] As well, on behalf of the Langley Emanuel Church family, we have been super blessed to host so many churches from around British Columbia for Reactivate. -[3180.42 --> 3187.86] And on top of that, we've had some special guests here from Trinity Western and from Redeemer, sharing and chatting and hanging out with our whole crew. -[3187.86 --> 3198.52] On top of that, we've had Chidi Ab to share a little bit more about what World Renew does on behalf of the CRC Church. -[3198.64 --> 3203.18] It is the arm, it's an international development arm of the Christian Reformed Church. -[3203.18 --> 3213.64] And we've had a great chance to get to know him, and he shared with us last night, and we'd like to share that a little bit with the rest of us, after which we will take an offering for World Renew, and I can explain more about that. -[3214.36 --> 3214.54] Thanks. -[3214.54 --> 3216.52] Good morning, my church. -[3217.62 --> 3218.44] How are you doing today? -[3220.60 --> 3223.58] I'm just overwhelmed with seeing a lot of young people around. -[3224.34 --> 3225.50] It's just amazing to see. -[3226.14 --> 3229.64] I've been to more than 50 CRC churches all across Canada. -[3230.28 --> 3233.96] Sometimes, some of the churches, the youngest person there is 65 years old. -[3233.96 --> 3236.74] I'm being real. -[3236.74 --> 3243.02] But to see young faces gives me the assurance that the church is here to stay when we are gone. -[3243.34 --> 3244.04] We're older folks. -[3244.80 --> 3251.34] So I want to commend our parents, the church community, to invest in the spirituality of the youth. -[3251.96 --> 3253.16] They are the leaders of tomorrow. -[3254.54 --> 3258.16] If they succeed, we have done our job well. -[3258.50 --> 3261.14] If they fail, believe in me, we failed. -[3261.14 --> 3269.64] So I commend the leadership of Reactive Act for consistently organizing this wonderful event for the past 10 years. -[3270.04 --> 3273.96] And for World Renew, we've been attending, I believe, for the past seven years all the time. -[3274.06 --> 3278.40] Sometimes, I email Natasha in February, when I was starting the planning. -[3278.74 --> 3279.66] She said, shit, it's February. -[3280.10 --> 3286.70] I said, I know, I'm looking forward for September for this Reactive Act because I know the importance of investing in our youth. -[3286.70 --> 3297.80] Again, I want to give a thanks to Lingley and Emmanuel Cielsi for your years of support to World Renews Global Ministry. -[3298.40 --> 3301.68] You've supported our refugee resettlement program. -[3302.16 --> 3305.88] You've supported our program fund and our international disaster response. -[3306.54 --> 3312.68] Your contribution has done a lot in improving the livelihood of a lot of folks in the global south. -[3312.68 --> 3319.98] And again, I have to tell you that we in the charitable sector are facing a lot of challenges. -[3320.52 --> 3325.36] As you know, most of the funding has been cut by some major players in the industry. -[3325.80 --> 3329.22] I was privileged to visit Kenya three months ago. -[3330.12 --> 3338.58] I was in a rural clinic, you know, attending to our, we have a program where we support pregnant women and nursing moms. -[3338.58 --> 3346.20] In that program, there are about 30 families and women singing for, receiving us to visit the clinic. -[3346.90 --> 3355.84] And it happens, we have a joint program with the major player of our funding in that area. -[3356.64 --> 3360.56] And that was when they announced the cutting of the funding. -[3360.56 --> 3367.66] As you know, we, when we have a joint partnership with the organization for funding. -[3368.44 --> 3374.58] When they pull out from the player, that means that program might be cut up or reduced. -[3375.06 --> 3384.90] So I was sitting in a corner just thinking about who is going to tell these folks that what they are here for might be cut up in the next couple of weeks. -[3384.90 --> 3387.36] Friends, friends, these are real. -[3388.44 --> 3398.74] People's lives are being affected by the cut of the funding, by the global economical turmoil, by the economical stability going on globally. -[3399.12 --> 3400.28] We are facing challenges. -[3401.18 --> 3408.42] Church, we hope that God has been sustaining this ministry for the past 62 years. -[3409.48 --> 3413.38] Churches like yours have been supporting World Renew for the past 62 years. -[3413.38 --> 3418.40] Churches, faithfully, helping and working alongside the global community. -[3419.04 --> 3425.72] Helping folks struggling with hunger, with poverty, with segregation, people that are displaced. -[3426.06 --> 3428.98] Churches have been faithfully supporting our ministry. -[3429.52 --> 3435.12] And we pray and we believe that God will keep on doing this good work that Churches have been supporting. -[3435.28 --> 3437.50] Again, I commend all the youths for coming. -[3438.24 --> 3442.56] When I was younger, my mom used to put me in all programs, almost every weekend. -[3442.56 --> 3444.88] I hated it so much. -[3445.40 --> 3446.58] But I have to thank my mom. -[3447.08 --> 3450.62] Because of that program that I attend to the churches, I've been alive today. -[3451.52 --> 3455.42] I've been out of trouble because of attending all these kind of programs. -[3455.80 --> 3457.88] So parents, please keep on sending your kids. -[3458.38 --> 3459.82] Next year, we're going to be here. -[3459.88 --> 3461.82] I want to see double this size. -[3461.82 --> 3468.54] Because investing in kids is the most important thing churches and parents should keep on doing. -[3468.98 --> 3472.82] Because if you don't invest in the kids, the society are going to take them from us. -[3473.28 --> 3477.50] God, please, I commend you to keep on supporting World Renew in our ministry. -[3478.28 --> 3481.06] By prayers, not just by financial support. -[3481.28 --> 3482.28] Prayers matters a lot. -[3482.28 --> 3484.60] And again, please pray for our leadership. -[3485.46 --> 3486.40] Pray for our partners. -[3486.82 --> 3489.02] And pray for our participants. -[3489.68 --> 3495.98] For God to continue supporting this wonderful ministry that your church has been supporting for years. -[3496.22 --> 3496.72] God bless you. -[3496.72 --> 3503.96] Thank you, Chitty. -[3504.40 --> 3509.62] So we're going to continue our worship by giving of our financial blessings that God has given to us. -[3509.70 --> 3514.56] So this morning it is for World Renew and the work that they do all over the world. -[3515.10 --> 3519.08] In addition, donations can be made to the ministry of this church. -[3519.08 --> 3523.04] So just to clarify, there's going to be some bags and baskets going around. -[3523.48 --> 3528.08] And any donations thrown in there that are undesignated will for sure go to World Renew. -[3528.16 --> 3531.40] Or you can jump onto the World Renew website and also donate to them directly. -[3531.96 --> 3538.32] And if you need to give directly to the budget or any other special ministry, make sure that is designated as such. -[3538.44 --> 3542.84] There should be little envelopes in the seats in front of you if you want to do it that way. -[3543.44 --> 3545.62] And thank you so much for giving this morning. -[3549.08 --> 3579.06] Thank you. -[3579.08 --> 3581.08] Thank you. -[3581.08 --> 3582.08] Thank you. -[3582.08 --> 3584.08] Thank you. -[3584.08 --> 3587.08] Thank you. -[3587.08 --> 3589.08] Thank you. -[3614.08 --> 3617.08] Thank you. -[3617.08 --> 3619.08] Thanks. -[3619.08 --> 3629.08] Thank you. -[3629.08 --> 3631.08] Thank you. -[3631.08 --> 3661.06] Thank you. -[3661.08 --> 3691.06] Thank you. -[3691.08 --> 3721.06] Thank you. -[3721.06 --> 3723.06] Thank you. -[3723.06 --> 3725.06] Thank you. -[3725.06 --> 3727.06] Thank you. -[3755.06 --> 3757.06] Thank you. -[3757.06 --> 3759.06] Hank the Hound. -[3759.06 --> 3761.06] Hank the Hound went in. -[3761.06 --> 3765.06] He thought he'd try what bears do and he hibernated for the winter for the summer months. -[3765.06 --> 3767.06] He got it a little bit backwards. -[3767.06 --> 3769.76] He's waking up this week and he's going to come out next week. -[3769.92 --> 3771.02] Does that sound like a good idea? -[3771.18 --> 3772.94] And he would love to see you all. -[3773.44 --> 3777.38] So he's going to come next week, but this week we're going to go and have children's -[3777.38 --> 3778.04] worship time in the back. -[3778.08 --> 3778.50] Is that good? -[3778.50 --> 3780.50] So I'm going to pray. -[3780.50 --> 3785.94] And then the seven of you are going to need to do the children's blessing together. -[3785.94 --> 3786.28] Okay. -[3786.28 --> 3787.18] With everybody here. -[3787.24 --> 3787.64] Can we do that? -[3787.68 --> 3788.68] We'll teach them how to do that. -[3788.68 --> 3790.58] I think all of the youths we can teach them. -[3790.62 --> 3791.18] Does that sound good? -[3791.84 --> 3792.32] All right. -[3792.32 --> 3792.80] Let's pray. -[3793.08 --> 3793.28] Okay. -[3793.28 --> 3794.02] Hold our hands. -[3794.10 --> 3794.60] Close our eyes. -[3794.68 --> 3795.08] Here we go. -[3795.40 --> 3797.10] Dear God, we thank you so much for this day. -[3797.40 --> 3801.36] Thank you so much that we could be here this weekend, that we could learn about you. -[3801.42 --> 3806.32] And we pray that as these kids go to children's worship time and as the youth and the grown -[3806.32 --> 3810.16] up stay back here and listen to Pastor Dave, that all of us, no matter what room we're -[3810.16 --> 3813.48] in, we'll learn more about what it means to follow you. -[3813.84 --> 3815.04] So we pray this in your name. -[3815.54 --> 3815.86] Amen. -[3816.76 --> 3820.06] All right, kids, we're going to stand up and we're going to face the congregation. -[3820.18 --> 3821.54] There's a lot of them and the lights are a little crazy. -[3821.54 --> 3824.98] And then the church is going to stand up, reactivate you too. -[3825.48 --> 3828.98] And the kids on the count of three, they're going to say, the Lord be with you. -[3829.20 --> 3831.54] And then you'll respond by saying, and also with you. -[3831.60 --> 3832.02] Are we ready? -[3832.38 --> 3833.68] Kids, we're going to have to be really loud. -[3833.76 --> 3834.70] Are we ready to be loud? -[3835.04 --> 3836.34] On the count of three, we're going to say it. -[3836.34 --> 3836.56] You ready? -[3836.72 --> 3838.14] One, two, three. -[3842.46 --> 3844.48] All right, you guys can go off to children's worship time. -[3845.02 --> 3847.92] And I'm going to invite up an elder from Langley Manual. -[3847.92 --> 3851.56] So Eric's going to come forward and lead us in our family prayer today. -[3851.56 --> 3855.46] Hi. -[3865.00 --> 3865.44] Hi. -[3865.52 --> 3868.84] As mentioned, I'm Eric here at Emanuel, elder here at Emanuel. -[3869.10 --> 3871.58] I will lead you in our church family prayer in a moment here. -[3871.58 --> 3880.40] Just one quick prayer note before, just a reminder to the congregation that September 16th, we have our, what are we calling it? -[3880.46 --> 3880.64] Sorry. -[3881.14 --> 3889.54] The special general meeting to consider the call of Kevin for a pastor here at Emanuel. -[3889.54 --> 3901.40] And we just wanted to bring it to your attention that, again, that is on the 16th, but that the council wanted to make it clear that if you're unable to attend, that email ballots will be accepted. -[3901.84 --> 3905.06] And just touch base with the office for more information on that. -[3905.96 --> 3907.58] But let's turn to our Lord in prayer. -[3907.58 --> 3918.74] Lord, you are our rock and our salvation, our fortress and our deliverer. -[3919.10 --> 3924.18] We thank you for being our stronghold and refuge. -[3925.16 --> 3930.18] We thank you as a church that we can freely come to you and worship and praise your name. -[3930.18 --> 3939.62] What an incredible opportunity it is for the youth here today, for gathering of the youth from around the province to be here today. -[3940.50 --> 3949.82] To reactivate the youth conference, we pray for the stirred hearts, renewed faith and ignited passions for Jesus in a fresh way. -[3950.98 --> 3954.96] We also pray for their traveling mercies as they do head home later today as well, Lord. -[3954.96 --> 3963.86] Lord, this week, Rachel Malawoni's grandmother, Margaret Southie, passed away this week. -[3964.82 --> 3968.92] We pray that you continue to be with the family as they grieve the loss of the loved one. -[3970.50 --> 3981.66] Lord, this is the time of year where elementary, middle and high school and even university students are now getting into the regular grind of being in school, Lord. -[3981.66 --> 3984.94] Be with those who are feeling stressed or overwhelmed by this, Lord. -[3985.02 --> 3990.76] We just ask that you be with the students and teachers and bless them in their journey here. -[3993.00 --> 3999.16] As mentioned earlier, Lord, we also have our special meeting coming up this September 3rd, 16th, sorry, for Kevin. -[3999.76 --> 4004.26] We pray that the congregation can come together and do your will, Lord. -[4004.26 --> 4007.40] Yes, Lord. -[4009.40 --> 4014.14] May we also bless you as you go through our week and be grounded and rooted in your word. -[4014.62 --> 4015.74] In Jesus' name we pray. -[4016.18 --> 4016.44] Amen. -[4016.44 --> 4035.84] I think that has to be the tallest elder I have ever met in any church. -[4035.92 --> 4036.70] Look at this stand. -[4038.66 --> 4040.12] Thank you for that prayer, Eric. -[4040.12 --> 4050.08] Well, we learned two things from Hans and Franz, Hans and Svans, and that is number one, you're supposed to eat your peppermints now, so you pass those around. -[4051.10 --> 4055.42] Secondly, I get 45 minutes, that's what they said, so buckle up. -[4056.70 --> 4064.54] Now, this weekend we've been opening up what it means to be formed in the way of Jesus and the way in which Christ seeks to make us like himself. -[4064.54 --> 4068.54] On Friday night, we opened up this invitation from Christ to be with him. -[4068.54 --> 4075.12] Yesterday night, we looked at the invitation to become like him, and today we're going to look at what it means to do the things that Jesus did. -[4075.94 --> 4079.08] And for that, we're going to read a passage in Mark chapter 3. -[4079.26 --> 4082.16] So if you can join me, if you've got your Bible, I think it'll also be on the screen. -[4083.96 --> 4085.26] And it feels very strange. -[4085.36 --> 4090.76] I see you out in the foyer looking over there at a screen, and we just want to say welcome to sitting in the foyer. -[4090.94 --> 4091.84] I see you over there. -[4093.56 --> 4097.16] This is God's word from Mark chapter 3 of Jesus appointing the 12. -[4098.54 --> 4103.60] Jesus went up on the mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. -[4104.34 --> 4111.48] He appointed 12 that they might be with him, and that he might send them out to preach and have authority to drive out demons. -[4112.24 --> 4113.72] These are the 12 he appointed. -[4114.40 --> 4116.26] Simon, to whom he gave the name Peter. -[4117.04 --> 4119.20] James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John. -[4119.56 --> 4122.66] To them he gave the names Boanerges, which means sons of thunder. -[4122.66 --> 4133.26] Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James, son of Alphaeus, Thaddeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. -[4133.76 --> 4135.04] This is God's word. -[4135.04 --> 4147.78] Well, when I was a teenager in youth group, there was a very common bracelet that almost every Christian teen who went to any Christian conference got, -[4148.16 --> 4151.18] and you will probably recognize it if you are my millennial peer. -[4153.14 --> 4155.74] WWJD, and just yell out what that stands for if you know. -[4156.46 --> 4156.94] Yeah. -[4157.60 --> 4158.42] You know this. -[4158.44 --> 4159.82] It must not just be my generation. -[4159.82 --> 4165.14] I remember going to a conference, and I had one, and you're supposed to wear it, and the idea, and I like this idea, -[4165.24 --> 4169.74] is that through your ordinary life as you're doing your things, you sort of see your bracelet, -[4169.88 --> 4175.54] and you're reminded to ask the question, what would Jesus do in this circumstance, with this relationship, with these challenges? -[4175.70 --> 4176.40] Would he do that? -[4176.48 --> 4177.52] Would he be like this? -[4178.04 --> 4183.24] And the only time I really remember noticing it, if I'm honest, is when I was speeding on the highway, -[4183.50 --> 4188.42] and I'd have my hand on the steering wheel and be thinking, would Jesus drive this fast? -[4188.42 --> 4190.40] But it was effective. -[4191.86 --> 4196.10] A very well-known writer named Dallas Willard, he gives his own take on this. -[4196.16 --> 4205.02] He says, the most important question that Christians can ask is, what kind of life would Jesus live if Jesus lived my life? -[4205.44 --> 4210.24] Now, that doesn't fit on a bracelet as nicely, but it does open up the character formation and discipleship. -[4210.24 --> 4220.70] What I like about the WWJD bracelet is it's built on the assumption that it is, in fact, possible to do what Jesus does. -[4221.60 --> 4225.62] It is, in fact, possible for disciples like you and me, ordinary believers, -[4225.62 --> 4231.78] to follow the path that Jesus left for us in his own ministry on how we are to live. -[4233.54 --> 4239.54] When Jesus calls you and me by his grace, lovingly and graciously to follow him, -[4239.96 --> 4246.96] he invites us not just to be with him, not just to become like him, but to do the very things that he did. -[4246.96 --> 4251.64] I want to give an illustration that comes from apprenticeship. -[4252.24 --> 4254.12] And maybe some of you remember going to trade school. -[4254.82 --> 4257.88] And in my case, my dad was in the trades doing woodworking. -[4258.32 --> 4262.08] And anyone who learns woodworking, you'll have a shop teacher who shows you all the tools. -[4262.22 --> 4266.32] He shows you how you are to see this work and what a miter saw is. -[4266.38 --> 4267.96] He holds before you the piece of wood. -[4268.22 --> 4272.16] And the goal is always, in the end, that you take the two-by-four. -[4272.16 --> 4276.10] You learn how to cut that piece and you frame the house, right? -[4276.72 --> 4279.62] And I feel like that's a very apt illustration as I look at the plastic -[4279.62 --> 4282.02] and the renovation work that needs to be done in this building. -[4282.38 --> 4286.72] The goal is for you to be able to do what your teacher shows you to do. -[4288.14 --> 4289.96] Do you see discipleship this way? -[4291.22 --> 4293.76] I think, and maybe this checks out with you, maybe it doesn't, -[4293.86 --> 4298.58] that so often when we read the Gospels, we read the stories of Jesus' ministry, -[4298.92 --> 4300.88] his discipleship, the teaching that he does, -[4300.88 --> 4305.80] we often see it as only showing us how Jesus does things, -[4305.94 --> 4307.12] his ministry, his way. -[4307.18 --> 4309.08] And of course that's true, but we never started to see, -[4309.48 --> 4311.86] could it be that this is the way that I'm supposed to follow? -[4312.50 --> 4316.82] Is this the ministry that I'm supposed to participate in with my life here today? -[4319.72 --> 4323.66] The Jesus who lays down his life to defeat sin, death, and Satan -[4323.66 --> 4326.64] is the same Jesus who ascends to be with the Father -[4326.64 --> 4330.58] and then sends his Spirit so that you and I can, in our own ordinary ways, -[4330.88 --> 4333.70] do the things that Jesus did. -[4334.30 --> 4339.14] At the very outset of Mark's Gospel, already in Mark chapter 1, which we looked at last night, -[4339.92 --> 4340.98] Jesus says to his disciples, -[4341.14 --> 4346.06] I want you to follow me and I'm going to send you out to fish for people, -[4346.14 --> 4347.28] to be fishers of men. -[4347.84 --> 4352.32] And it's very evident that this thing of discipleship is not some passive watching of Jesus -[4352.32 --> 4356.44] where you sort of watch him do something or you watch just the way he's going to live. -[4356.44 --> 4361.54] You're invited to participate in the work that Jesus is beginning in his kingdom ministry -[4361.54 --> 4364.90] as he fills us with his strength and sends us out. -[4366.70 --> 4371.30] So often I think we fall prey to that trap, whether it's sort of in the way we think -[4371.30 --> 4374.66] or even just the way we act where we see discipleship as watching Jesus -[4374.66 --> 4378.70] or maybe even this, watching other people do the discipleship -[4378.70 --> 4381.58] and sort of stepping back and being an observer. -[4382.36 --> 4384.80] When it doesn't matter how old or young you are, -[4384.88 --> 4387.46] when Jesus says, follow me to each and every one of us, -[4387.92 --> 4393.52] he invites us to actively participate, to play our part in his kingdom ministry. -[4394.82 --> 4398.40] And now I want to reread our passage, at least the first part of it. -[4399.20 --> 4400.10] In Mark chapter 3, -[4400.10 --> 4417.98] And then we have this long list of names of the disciples who followed Jesus. -[4418.08 --> 4421.86] And I want you to know that this is a really mixed motley crew. -[4422.12 --> 4426.10] You have a trader, a fiery zealot, some fisherman, a Roman collaborator, -[4426.10 --> 4430.16] and James and John who get the most amazing nicknames in the Bible. -[4430.66 --> 4431.28] Look at that. -[4431.64 --> 4433.94] Boanerges, which means sons of thunder. -[4434.78 --> 4436.00] Is that not an amazing nickname? -[4436.06 --> 4439.28] For those who are expecting children, just to put that on the radar, -[4439.72 --> 4441.60] Boanerges is yours for the taking. -[4442.66 --> 4445.14] I think one of the first tasks is just getting along -[4445.14 --> 4447.34] because they are such a diverse motley crew -[4447.34 --> 4449.88] and they had to sort out how to be in community with one another -[4449.88 --> 4451.40] with such different backgrounds. -[4452.42 --> 4454.94] But what you need to know at the very outside of this passage -[4454.94 --> 4456.56] is it's on a mountainside. -[4457.30 --> 4459.68] And just a heads up, whenever Jesus heads on a mountain -[4459.68 --> 4461.86] and He meets with people on a mountain, -[4462.02 --> 4463.98] it's always a very important gathering. -[4464.08 --> 4465.48] It's always a very important event. -[4465.58 --> 4468.82] That's often calling back to Old Testament events. -[4468.90 --> 4472.22] And in this case, the Old Testament event that we're calling back to -[4472.22 --> 4475.18] is God calling Moses in the book of Exodus. -[4475.50 --> 4477.44] He brings Moses to a mountaintop -[4477.44 --> 4478.58] and He's going to say to Moses, -[4478.58 --> 4481.52] I'm pulling this people Israel into my mission -[4481.52 --> 4484.16] to let the nations know that I am the living God. -[4484.16 --> 4487.32] And in this case, we now have Jesus, the Son of the living God, -[4487.68 --> 4490.52] pulling in these 12 disciples, the new Israel, -[4490.72 --> 4492.82] and saying, I am now gathering you -[4492.82 --> 4494.56] and sending you out to the nations -[4494.56 --> 4498.32] to make known that I am the Savior of creation. -[4499.52 --> 4501.08] Mountaintop experience. -[4501.08 --> 4505.52] From the beginning to the end of Scripture, -[4506.54 --> 4509.88] God graciously, and I would say remarkably, -[4510.44 --> 4513.18] invites ordinary humans like these disciples, -[4513.46 --> 4515.02] like you and me, into His plan. -[4515.10 --> 4516.20] He doesn't have to do that. -[4516.86 --> 4519.66] God could, if He wanted, accomplish all that He wants -[4519.66 --> 4521.28] without any human involvement, -[4521.48 --> 4522.54] and yet He graciously says, -[4522.92 --> 4526.44] I want my people to be part of my plan. -[4526.44 --> 4528.96] I will remarkably work through, -[4529.20 --> 4532.52] in and through these ordinary, broken people -[4532.52 --> 4534.16] who don't think they have much to give -[4534.16 --> 4535.94] to make my name known. -[4536.60 --> 4540.28] He uses fishermen, tax collectors, -[4541.08 --> 4542.20] Roman collaborators. -[4542.82 --> 4548.34] He uses doctors, framers, parents, students, -[4548.56 --> 4550.76] children, accountants, farmers, teachers, -[4550.94 --> 4554.18] on and on we go to make Himself known. -[4554.18 --> 4557.46] I want to read Matthew's version -[4557.46 --> 4559.96] of this same account of the calling -[4559.96 --> 4561.12] of His first disciples. -[4561.36 --> 4563.28] And this comes from Matthew 10, verse 5, -[4563.36 --> 4565.28] and I'm intrigued by the different way -[4565.28 --> 4565.94] that He says it. -[4566.00 --> 4567.24] He says, as you go, -[4567.60 --> 4569.18] sort of implying the ordinary world -[4569.18 --> 4569.86] that you're going to live in, -[4569.92 --> 4570.94] proclaim this message. -[4571.30 --> 4573.04] The kingdom of heaven has come near, -[4573.78 --> 4576.52] so heal the sick, raise the dead, -[4577.14 --> 4578.52] cleanse those who have leprosy, -[4578.62 --> 4579.56] drive out demons, -[4580.00 --> 4581.74] freely you have received, -[4582.50 --> 4583.18] freely give. -[4584.18 --> 4586.90] And I can almost hear the disciples -[4586.90 --> 4587.78] saying to each other -[4587.78 --> 4589.04] after Jesus says these words, -[4589.20 --> 4590.00] like, us? -[4590.96 --> 4591.40] Us? -[4591.74 --> 4593.20] Heal the sick, raise the dead, -[4593.36 --> 4594.10] cleanse the lepers? -[4594.44 --> 4596.36] You're asking us to do these things? -[4596.92 --> 4598.62] I can imagine the nerves, -[4599.08 --> 4600.90] the wondering if they're in the right meeting -[4600.90 --> 4601.96] with the right person -[4601.96 --> 4603.14] to do the right things. -[4603.68 --> 4604.76] And yet Jesus says to them, -[4604.86 --> 4605.98] freely you have received. -[4607.00 --> 4608.84] You have been brought into the life -[4608.84 --> 4609.64] of the kingdom of God. -[4609.70 --> 4611.32] You have received the grace -[4611.32 --> 4612.44] that is going to change your life, -[4612.44 --> 4613.96] and now you get to freely give it. -[4614.28 --> 4615.32] You get to freely share -[4615.32 --> 4616.28] the grace of Jesus, -[4616.62 --> 4617.50] the power of Jesus, -[4617.60 --> 4618.52] and the life of Jesus -[4618.52 --> 4620.60] to everyone around you. -[4623.38 --> 4624.40] When I was reading about -[4624.40 --> 4625.56] this calling of the disciples, -[4626.38 --> 4627.78] a writer that I very much like -[4627.78 --> 4629.32] says that for all of them, -[4630.20 --> 4631.84] their learning process -[4631.84 --> 4633.78] of how to do what Jesus did -[4633.78 --> 4636.50] was slow and steady. -[4636.50 --> 4638.56] It started often with them -[4638.56 --> 4640.06] just holding a basket -[4640.06 --> 4642.12] while Jesus fed the 5,000. -[4642.20 --> 4643.72] Their job was just to hold this basket -[4643.72 --> 4644.60] and distribute it. -[4645.06 --> 4646.38] Then they go to meals with Jesus -[4646.38 --> 4647.60] and they see Him arguing -[4647.60 --> 4648.58] and dealing with people -[4648.58 --> 4649.76] who really don't like Him, -[4650.16 --> 4651.04] learning how to interact -[4651.04 --> 4651.92] with religious leaders -[4651.92 --> 4653.20] that are trying to trap Him. -[4653.74 --> 4655.96] They watch Jesus live with the poor -[4655.96 --> 4657.00] and show His affection -[4657.00 --> 4658.16] and care for the vulnerable. -[4658.64 --> 4660.24] They see Jesus do all these things -[4660.24 --> 4660.92] and slowly, -[4661.96 --> 4663.04] in the Gospels already, -[4663.20 --> 4664.96] and especially in the book of Acts -[4664.96 --> 4665.98] when they receive the Spirit, -[4666.84 --> 4668.84] they slowly learn how to do it too. -[4669.70 --> 4671.04] Open up their homes -[4671.04 --> 4672.68] and have meals with those -[4672.68 --> 4673.50] who disagree with them. -[4673.60 --> 4674.42] Learn how to reconcile -[4674.42 --> 4675.42] with their enemies. -[4675.80 --> 4676.82] Learn how to build community -[4676.82 --> 4678.20] between Jews and Gentiles -[4678.20 --> 4679.36] who do not like each other. -[4679.74 --> 4681.22] Learn how to love their neighbors. -[4682.22 --> 4683.58] Learn how to pray for the sick. -[4684.24 --> 4685.28] Learn how to give away -[4685.28 --> 4686.36] all that they've been given -[4686.36 --> 4687.42] for the sake of the kingdom. -[4688.30 --> 4690.26] Slowly but surely, -[4690.84 --> 4692.36] they stepped out -[4692.36 --> 4693.62] into the kingdom ministry -[4693.62 --> 4695.06] that Jesus sends them into. -[4696.06 --> 4696.86] And I'm going to come back -[4696.86 --> 4698.26] to that for us today too. -[4698.60 --> 4699.54] But let me just pause -[4699.54 --> 4700.16] and say this. -[4700.82 --> 4701.96] You probably have experienced -[4701.96 --> 4702.68] these moments -[4702.68 --> 4704.50] where you feel nervous, -[4704.92 --> 4706.22] you are not feeling equipped, -[4706.34 --> 4706.82] you don't feel like -[4706.82 --> 4707.50] you're the right person -[4707.50 --> 4708.02] for the job, -[4708.08 --> 4709.58] and you step out in faith -[4709.58 --> 4711.90] and you find that Jesus meets you -[4711.90 --> 4713.36] and He shows up -[4713.36 --> 4715.08] and He does His work through you. -[4717.20 --> 4718.38] I'm going to name a question -[4718.38 --> 4719.40] that's maybe percolating -[4719.40 --> 4719.94] in your mind -[4719.94 --> 4721.68] as you read Mark chapter 3. -[4721.68 --> 4722.48] And the question is, -[4723.22 --> 4724.40] you're saying to me -[4724.40 --> 4725.68] that following Jesus -[4725.68 --> 4726.62] in this passage -[4726.62 --> 4727.84] is preaching -[4727.84 --> 4729.78] and it's casting out demons. -[4730.66 --> 4731.40] I'm not doing -[4731.40 --> 4732.12] either of those things. -[4732.20 --> 4733.22] I'm not Pastor Chris -[4733.22 --> 4734.06] on Sunday morning -[4734.06 --> 4735.46] and I'm certainly not -[4735.46 --> 4736.18] casting out demons -[4736.18 --> 4737.06] right now in my life. -[4737.16 --> 4738.08] Am I a disciple? -[4738.84 --> 4739.62] Maybe you're not asking that, -[4739.66 --> 4739.94] maybe you are. -[4739.98 --> 4741.06] Let me just name for you -[4741.06 --> 4741.82] two things -[4741.82 --> 4742.56] that are helpful to hear. -[4742.66 --> 4743.14] Number one, -[4743.22 --> 4744.72] this is not an exhaustive list -[4744.72 --> 4745.32] of the calling -[4745.32 --> 4745.92] of the disciples. -[4746.42 --> 4747.50] This is one part -[4747.50 --> 4748.20] of their calling -[4748.20 --> 4749.44] as they follow Jesus. -[4749.44 --> 4750.78] Number two, -[4751.94 --> 4753.76] if I'm hearing the gifts -[4753.76 --> 4754.72] in the other parts -[4754.72 --> 4755.28] of the New Testament, -[4755.44 --> 4756.54] especially the gifts -[4756.54 --> 4757.02] of the body -[4757.02 --> 4758.06] in 1 Corinthians 12, -[4758.96 --> 4759.82] Jesus knows -[4759.82 --> 4760.82] that not all of us -[4760.82 --> 4761.18] are called -[4761.18 --> 4762.66] to the exact same things -[4762.66 --> 4763.62] in the church of Jesus. -[4764.16 --> 4765.24] And He generously gives -[4765.24 --> 4766.06] many different gifts -[4766.06 --> 4767.06] to many different people. -[4767.16 --> 4767.62] And by the way, -[4767.82 --> 4768.90] I saw those gifts -[4768.90 --> 4769.52] on display -[4769.52 --> 4770.62] throughout Reactivate -[4770.62 --> 4771.12] this weekend -[4771.12 --> 4772.60] with the serving of food, -[4772.70 --> 4773.68] the playing of music, -[4773.94 --> 4775.36] the leading of conversations, -[4775.58 --> 4776.50] going out in creation, -[4776.82 --> 4777.70] so many gifts -[4777.70 --> 4779.16] used in so many different ways. -[4779.44 --> 4780.68] But in all of them, -[4781.14 --> 4782.12] there is that calling -[4782.12 --> 4783.86] to use what you've been given, -[4784.50 --> 4786.16] to step out in faith -[4786.16 --> 4787.62] so that Jesus Christ -[4787.62 --> 4788.98] is glorified and honored. -[4789.66 --> 4791.10] And every one of us, -[4791.52 --> 4792.36] whether you feel equipped -[4792.36 --> 4793.92] to be an evangelist or not, -[4794.34 --> 4795.92] are called to make Jesus known -[4795.92 --> 4796.82] with your words -[4796.82 --> 4798.78] and your deeds, -[4799.46 --> 4800.22] to give a reason -[4800.22 --> 4801.30] for the hope that you have -[4801.30 --> 4802.04] with your coworkers -[4802.04 --> 4802.90] and classmates -[4802.90 --> 4804.02] so that Jesus -[4804.02 --> 4805.10] would be made known -[4805.10 --> 4806.20] through you. -[4806.20 --> 4811.38] I'm going to make -[4811.38 --> 4813.14] three concluding reflections today. -[4813.52 --> 4813.88] That's right, -[4813.92 --> 4815.20] I'm not going for 45 minutes, -[4815.62 --> 4816.54] but I'm not done yet. -[4817.54 --> 4818.64] The first one -[4818.64 --> 4820.28] is so essential -[4820.28 --> 4820.94] for us to hear -[4820.94 --> 4822.06] no matter what stage -[4822.06 --> 4822.60] we are at -[4822.60 --> 4823.46] in our discipleship -[4823.46 --> 4823.88] with Jesus, -[4824.54 --> 4825.98] that your invitation -[4825.98 --> 4826.56] from Jesus -[4826.56 --> 4827.60] is not passive, -[4828.40 --> 4829.46] that we are not called -[4829.46 --> 4830.12] to sort of sit -[4830.12 --> 4830.92] in the back seat -[4830.92 --> 4832.12] and watch other people -[4832.12 --> 4833.72] do the ministry of Christ -[4833.72 --> 4834.70] without you. -[4835.38 --> 4836.88] Every one of us, -[4837.08 --> 4837.74] from the oldest -[4837.74 --> 4838.42] to the youngest, -[4838.70 --> 4840.10] from the most competent feeling -[4840.10 --> 4841.00] to the weakest feeling, -[4841.20 --> 4842.24] is invited to serve -[4842.24 --> 4842.92] with everything -[4842.92 --> 4843.66] we've been given -[4843.66 --> 4845.40] to make Jesus known. -[4846.08 --> 4848.04] There is no far back seat -[4848.04 --> 4848.94] where you just passively -[4848.94 --> 4849.64] watch Jesus -[4849.64 --> 4851.22] or watch other Christians -[4851.22 --> 4852.46] do the work of ministry. -[4852.66 --> 4853.36] It's for each -[4853.36 --> 4854.06] and every one of you -[4854.06 --> 4856.64] exactly where you already live, -[4857.26 --> 4859.02] exactly where you already work, -[4859.18 --> 4860.86] exactly where you already worship. -[4861.28 --> 4862.34] This is the place -[4862.34 --> 4864.24] where Jesus sends you out. -[4867.66 --> 4868.80] One of the commentators -[4868.80 --> 4869.52] on this passage -[4869.52 --> 4870.00] noticed -[4870.00 --> 4871.98] that as these disciples -[4871.98 --> 4872.70] worked out -[4872.70 --> 4873.34] in their own lives -[4873.34 --> 4874.30] how to follow Jesus, -[4874.84 --> 4876.46] they regularly found out -[4876.46 --> 4878.10] that the kingdom of God -[4878.10 --> 4879.08] had come to stay. -[4879.94 --> 4880.96] I want you to imagine -[4880.96 --> 4881.92] the fears -[4881.92 --> 4882.68] they might have had -[4882.68 --> 4883.72] as ordinary fishermen -[4883.72 --> 4884.58] going to preach, -[4884.70 --> 4885.64] going to cast out demons, -[4885.80 --> 4886.34] going to heal, -[4886.46 --> 4887.62] going to do all the stuff -[4887.62 --> 4889.14] that Jesus invited them to do, -[4889.18 --> 4890.24] all the fears they had, -[4890.46 --> 4891.48] and they would have found out -[4891.48 --> 4893.94] over and over and over again -[4893.94 --> 4895.64] that the kingdom of God -[4895.64 --> 4896.58] that they witnessed -[4896.58 --> 4897.64] in the life of Jesus -[4897.64 --> 4899.14] was showing up -[4899.14 --> 4900.08] in their lives. -[4901.52 --> 4902.62] Sometimes we can read -[4902.62 --> 4903.52] the gospel accounts -[4903.52 --> 4903.86] and think, -[4904.00 --> 4905.32] wow, Jesus did this healing. -[4905.44 --> 4906.26] He calmed the storm. -[4906.36 --> 4907.06] He raised his girl -[4907.06 --> 4907.58] from the dead. -[4907.80 --> 4908.94] And then when Jesus dies -[4908.94 --> 4909.46] and rises, -[4909.62 --> 4910.36] well, that's kind of -[4910.36 --> 4910.96] the end of it. -[4911.52 --> 4912.80] That is the opposite -[4912.80 --> 4914.56] of why Jesus came. -[4915.02 --> 4915.66] In his death, -[4915.74 --> 4916.80] he deals with sin. -[4916.94 --> 4917.90] He deals with Satan. -[4918.02 --> 4919.38] He deals with death itself. -[4919.38 --> 4920.70] And in his resurrection, -[4920.86 --> 4921.18] he says, -[4921.46 --> 4923.52] this kingdom is here to stay. -[4924.10 --> 4924.92] And the book of Acts -[4924.92 --> 4926.10] is a story that says -[4926.10 --> 4927.78] the life that Jesus had -[4927.78 --> 4929.70] poured out on the church -[4929.70 --> 4930.70] so that the church -[4930.70 --> 4932.30] can continue to do -[4932.30 --> 4934.02] what Jesus did. -[4934.40 --> 4935.60] And that includes you -[4935.60 --> 4937.06] and me here this morning. -[4938.82 --> 4939.38] Secondly, -[4939.94 --> 4941.84] you and I have -[4941.84 --> 4942.62] the authority -[4942.62 --> 4943.58] and the power. -[4944.42 --> 4945.64] I don't think we talk -[4945.64 --> 4946.52] enough about this. -[4947.02 --> 4947.62] That yes, -[4947.62 --> 4948.56] yes, we are weak. -[4948.98 --> 4949.98] Yes, we have sin. -[4950.10 --> 4951.44] Yes, we feel ill-equipped. -[4951.70 --> 4953.02] But the power of Jesus -[4953.02 --> 4954.66] is sufficient for you. -[4955.78 --> 4956.90] It is sufficient -[4956.90 --> 4958.30] for you in your workplace. -[4958.80 --> 4959.70] It's sufficient for you -[4959.70 --> 4960.22] in your school. -[4960.50 --> 4961.60] It is sufficient for you -[4961.60 --> 4962.50] to do the work -[4962.50 --> 4964.56] that Jesus sends you to do. -[4965.60 --> 4966.96] We've all heard this passage -[4966.96 --> 4967.92] in the book of Ephesians, -[4968.02 --> 4968.60] but it says that -[4968.60 --> 4969.36] the same power -[4969.36 --> 4970.54] that rose Jesus Christ -[4970.54 --> 4971.02] from the dead -[4971.02 --> 4972.40] is alive in -[4972.40 --> 4974.10] us -[4974.10 --> 4975.08] also. -[4975.08 --> 4976.94] the same spirit -[4976.94 --> 4978.38] is alive in us -[4978.38 --> 4978.84] and that means -[4978.84 --> 4979.82] new things are possible. -[4980.54 --> 4981.22] New opportunities -[4981.22 --> 4981.98] are available. -[4982.14 --> 4982.88] New transformation -[4982.88 --> 4984.78] is on tap -[4984.78 --> 4985.72] for us to experience. -[4986.96 --> 4987.66] And I want you to know -[4987.66 --> 4988.58] that there are -[4988.58 --> 4989.14] a few things -[4989.14 --> 4990.10] more satisfying -[4990.10 --> 4991.88] than stepping out -[4991.88 --> 4992.24] in faith, -[4992.34 --> 4993.14] whatever that looks like, -[4993.22 --> 4993.86] sharing your faith -[4993.86 --> 4994.62] with a classmate, -[4995.06 --> 4995.84] encouraging someone, -[4995.98 --> 4996.62] praying for someone -[4996.62 --> 4997.06] who's sick, -[4997.16 --> 4998.58] and seeing Jesus -[4998.58 --> 4999.30] do His work -[4999.30 --> 4999.84] through you. -[5000.66 --> 5001.34] I can say that -[5001.34 --> 5002.20] when I was a youth pastor -[5002.20 --> 5003.52] and I will say -[5003.52 --> 5004.20] that in youth ministry -[5004.20 --> 5004.90] there's a lot of -[5004.90 --> 5005.84] exciting nights -[5005.84 --> 5006.34] and there's a lot -[5006.34 --> 5007.06] of quiet nights -[5007.06 --> 5007.74] where you just don't know -[5007.74 --> 5008.70] if anyone's listening, -[5008.88 --> 5009.64] if anyone cares, -[5010.02 --> 5010.98] if the grade 12 students -[5010.98 --> 5012.10] really want to follow Jesus, -[5012.48 --> 5013.32] and then you'll find out -[5013.32 --> 5014.60] five, ten years later -[5014.60 --> 5015.64] that that conversation -[5015.64 --> 5016.60] changed their life. -[5017.38 --> 5018.16] Conversation that you thought -[5018.16 --> 5019.20] was just so ordinary -[5019.20 --> 5020.26] where you shared -[5020.26 --> 5021.40] about your own vulnerabilities, -[5021.66 --> 5022.50] your own story, -[5022.70 --> 5024.32] and Jesus in His grace -[5024.32 --> 5025.10] and His power -[5025.10 --> 5026.02] and His authority -[5026.02 --> 5027.42] uses you -[5027.42 --> 5029.56] to disciple that person, -[5029.70 --> 5030.58] uses you -[5030.58 --> 5031.56] to enable them -[5031.56 --> 5032.16] to see the goodness -[5032.16 --> 5032.60] of Jesus, -[5032.76 --> 5033.56] uses you -[5033.56 --> 5034.58] to help your co-worker -[5034.58 --> 5035.40] see there's a different -[5035.40 --> 5036.38] reason to live -[5036.38 --> 5037.92] than for themselves. -[5038.84 --> 5040.20] Can you imagine that -[5040.20 --> 5041.68] for your life -[5041.68 --> 5043.36] at the stage you're in -[5043.36 --> 5044.24] right now? -[5047.54 --> 5048.84] And if you feel inadequate, -[5049.56 --> 5050.46] so do the disciples. -[5050.90 --> 5051.18] In fact, -[5051.22 --> 5052.04] if you feel weak -[5052.04 --> 5052.68] and powerless -[5052.68 --> 5053.42] and like you don't have -[5053.42 --> 5054.42] a lot to offer Jesus, -[5054.76 --> 5056.04] you join the whole host -[5056.04 --> 5056.84] of church history -[5056.84 --> 5058.42] right back to the ones -[5058.42 --> 5059.68] He called on the mountainside. -[5059.68 --> 5060.98] I don't think anyone -[5060.98 --> 5062.40] steps into the ministry -[5062.40 --> 5062.84] of Jesus -[5062.84 --> 5063.44] and feels like, -[5063.82 --> 5064.52] I got this. -[5064.92 --> 5066.14] Everyone steps into it -[5066.14 --> 5066.36] saying, -[5066.70 --> 5066.86] me? -[5067.56 --> 5068.08] Me too? -[5068.44 --> 5069.38] You're calling me -[5069.38 --> 5070.24] into this ministry -[5070.24 --> 5071.48] of making Jesus known -[5071.48 --> 5072.52] and showing His love -[5072.52 --> 5073.56] through all the ways I live? -[5073.90 --> 5074.52] Yes, you. -[5075.24 --> 5075.68] And yes, -[5075.72 --> 5076.14] He'll meet you -[5076.14 --> 5076.64] in your weakness. -[5077.98 --> 5078.92] You are empowered. -[5079.60 --> 5080.52] You have His authority -[5080.52 --> 5081.84] and you are sent. -[5083.30 --> 5084.12] And here's where -[5084.12 --> 5084.74] I want to finish. -[5084.92 --> 5085.70] Maybe this is a strange -[5085.70 --> 5086.26] place to finish, -[5086.40 --> 5087.64] but this is what I think -[5087.64 --> 5088.60] needed to be shared, -[5088.60 --> 5089.90] especially with the students -[5089.90 --> 5090.80] here at Reactivate. -[5092.30 --> 5093.44] We are invited -[5093.44 --> 5095.10] to fail forward, -[5095.96 --> 5097.28] to make mistakes. -[5098.08 --> 5099.36] Jesus did not expect -[5099.36 --> 5100.34] all the twelve -[5100.34 --> 5101.40] to get everything right -[5101.40 --> 5101.94] the first time. -[5102.02 --> 5102.30] In fact, -[5102.80 --> 5103.64] this is not recorded -[5103.64 --> 5104.22] in the Gospels, -[5104.34 --> 5105.34] but there's a few times -[5105.34 --> 5107.02] where I imagine Jesus -[5107.02 --> 5108.18] just doing a face palm -[5108.18 --> 5109.50] because they are just so far. -[5109.86 --> 5111.08] Like one of those situations -[5111.08 --> 5111.98] in the Gospel of Luke -[5111.98 --> 5112.84] where they're not welcome -[5112.84 --> 5113.50] in a city -[5113.50 --> 5115.10] and the people -[5115.10 --> 5116.12] in the Samarian village -[5116.12 --> 5117.30] did not want Jesus to come -[5117.30 --> 5118.84] and the disciples say to Jesus, -[5118.96 --> 5119.86] I just love this story. -[5119.94 --> 5120.14] They say, -[5120.22 --> 5121.24] would you like us to pray -[5121.24 --> 5122.46] and call down fire -[5122.46 --> 5123.48] to destroy the city? -[5124.06 --> 5124.46] And Jesus is like, -[5124.52 --> 5124.74] no, -[5125.26 --> 5126.54] that is not what I want you to do. -[5126.84 --> 5127.70] You're not there yet. -[5127.76 --> 5128.42] And the disciples -[5128.42 --> 5129.32] had this ability -[5129.32 --> 5130.12] to fail forward. -[5130.22 --> 5130.78] They just kept -[5130.78 --> 5131.72] trying to figure it out. -[5131.96 --> 5132.92] They kept making mistakes. -[5133.04 --> 5134.36] Jesus' grace met them -[5134.36 --> 5135.66] in all of their failures -[5135.66 --> 5137.02] and slowly but surely -[5137.02 --> 5137.52] they learned -[5137.52 --> 5138.32] how to do what He did. -[5138.56 --> 5139.84] Always by His strength, -[5140.42 --> 5141.52] always by the Spirit, -[5141.90 --> 5142.40] they learned -[5142.40 --> 5143.00] how to do -[5143.00 --> 5144.26] what Jesus did. -[5144.26 --> 5146.72] I happen to believe -[5146.72 --> 5147.96] that even in this building -[5147.96 --> 5148.56] right now, -[5149.08 --> 5150.22] there is an unbelievable -[5150.22 --> 5151.22] number of gifts, -[5151.94 --> 5153.34] many of which -[5153.34 --> 5154.62] have not yet been tested -[5154.62 --> 5155.20] and tried, -[5155.94 --> 5156.86] many of which people -[5156.86 --> 5157.68] have sort of denied -[5157.68 --> 5158.42] or suppressed -[5158.42 --> 5159.22] that that's the way -[5159.22 --> 5160.82] Jesus calls them to serve. -[5161.52 --> 5162.74] And I think the invitation -[5162.74 --> 5164.94] from this passage -[5164.94 --> 5166.80] is to be willing -[5166.80 --> 5167.80] to take the risks, -[5168.78 --> 5169.84] try out the gifts -[5169.84 --> 5171.00] that your youth pastor -[5171.00 --> 5172.16] or friend or co-worker -[5172.16 --> 5173.14] said that you have -[5173.14 --> 5173.84] in your life -[5173.84 --> 5174.94] and allow Jesus -[5174.94 --> 5175.96] to do His thing -[5175.96 --> 5176.88] through you. -[5177.40 --> 5178.14] Make mistakes. -[5178.36 --> 5179.16] I know this church -[5179.16 --> 5179.58] well enough -[5179.58 --> 5180.64] and I know so many churches -[5180.64 --> 5181.16] well enough to know -[5181.16 --> 5182.52] that they are safe places -[5182.52 --> 5183.16] to fail -[5183.16 --> 5184.22] and you will be loved -[5184.22 --> 5185.16] if you have been trying -[5185.16 --> 5185.92] to serve Jesus -[5185.92 --> 5186.70] with the gifts -[5186.70 --> 5187.84] you think He's been giving you. -[5189.10 --> 5189.94] When's the last time -[5189.94 --> 5190.48] you did that? -[5191.76 --> 5192.46] When's the last time -[5192.46 --> 5193.56] you took that small -[5193.56 --> 5194.92] baby step of saying, -[5195.10 --> 5195.84] I'm going to pray -[5195.84 --> 5196.60] for this person. -[5197.36 --> 5198.38] I'm going to give -[5198.38 --> 5199.20] where there is need. -[5199.32 --> 5200.30] I'm going to get involved -[5200.30 --> 5201.36] in this messy situation. -[5201.66 --> 5202.56] I'm going to show up -[5202.56 --> 5203.06] for the meeting -[5203.06 --> 5204.16] and reconcile with someone -[5204.16 --> 5205.52] so that Jesus can do -[5205.52 --> 5206.34] His work through me. -[5206.42 --> 5206.98] I'm going to take -[5206.98 --> 5208.20] that baby step forward -[5208.20 --> 5209.66] and see what happens -[5209.66 --> 5211.02] when the Spirit -[5211.02 --> 5211.74] of the living God -[5211.74 --> 5213.00] shows up with us. -[5213.72 --> 5214.30] Whether that be -[5214.30 --> 5216.88] befriending a disabled classmate, -[5217.52 --> 5218.18] getting involved -[5218.18 --> 5219.16] in refugee sponsorship -[5219.16 --> 5220.46] when it's no longer popular, -[5221.16 --> 5222.04] learning how to use -[5222.04 --> 5222.66] your resources -[5222.66 --> 5223.90] and give radically, -[5224.58 --> 5225.60] intercessory prayer -[5225.60 --> 5226.86] that feels so strange, -[5227.34 --> 5228.82] hospitality that feels difficult -[5228.82 --> 5229.62] when you're introverted, -[5229.84 --> 5232.70] and so many more things. -[5233.06 --> 5235.46] you are invited -[5235.46 --> 5236.32] to try, -[5236.62 --> 5238.02] to experiment, -[5238.58 --> 5239.66] and to fail forward. -[5239.80 --> 5240.72] Curtis used that language -[5240.72 --> 5241.60] wherever Curtis is. -[5241.86 --> 5242.64] Curtis Malif does it. -[5242.74 --> 5243.94] Talked with the leadership team -[5243.94 --> 5244.56] of Reactivate, -[5244.66 --> 5245.32] failing forward, -[5245.42 --> 5246.20] learning as they go, -[5246.24 --> 5247.22] and I like that language. -[5248.32 --> 5249.32] And I want to share with you -[5249.32 --> 5250.48] a very specific story -[5250.48 --> 5250.98] about this -[5250.98 --> 5251.98] that will be with me -[5251.98 --> 5252.70] for many years. -[5253.58 --> 5254.36] It's a story about someone -[5254.36 --> 5255.08] who prayed for me. -[5255.86 --> 5256.92] When I was at Regent, -[5257.28 --> 5259.04] three years in or so, -[5259.66 --> 5260.42] I was in a season -[5260.42 --> 5261.56] where I was feeling overwhelmed -[5261.56 --> 5263.28] by the work I was doing -[5263.28 --> 5263.98] as a youth pastor -[5263.98 --> 5264.94] as well as studying -[5264.94 --> 5265.62] as well as having -[5265.62 --> 5266.68] two very young kids -[5266.68 --> 5267.52] and sleeplessness. -[5267.96 --> 5268.66] And there's a season -[5268.66 --> 5269.26] where I felt like -[5269.26 --> 5269.98] I wasn't praying -[5269.98 --> 5270.58] and I was sort of -[5270.58 --> 5271.58] leading out of an emptiness. -[5272.20 --> 5273.20] And in that season, -[5273.20 --> 5274.50] there was a class at Regent -[5274.50 --> 5275.50] that required me -[5275.50 --> 5276.66] to go on a prayer retreat. -[5276.86 --> 5277.46] And I remember saying -[5277.46 --> 5277.90] to my wife, -[5278.02 --> 5278.98] I don't have time -[5278.98 --> 5280.52] to go on a prayer retreat. -[5280.62 --> 5280.94] And she's like, -[5280.98 --> 5281.50] that doesn't sound -[5281.50 --> 5282.40] like what pastors say. -[5283.22 --> 5284.14] So I go on this -[5284.14 --> 5285.18] mandatory prayer retreat -[5285.18 --> 5286.18] and I'm going on empty. -[5286.32 --> 5287.12] It's in Bellingham -[5287.12 --> 5287.94] and they start -[5287.94 --> 5288.66] on a Friday night. -[5288.74 --> 5289.80] There's a worship service. -[5290.34 --> 5291.06] Service finishes -[5291.06 --> 5291.80] and afterwards, -[5292.00 --> 5293.22] the leader of the conference says, -[5293.38 --> 5294.38] if anyone wants -[5294.38 --> 5295.30] to stick around later -[5295.30 --> 5296.16] and receive prayer, -[5296.40 --> 5297.00] there's a number -[5297.00 --> 5298.30] of intercessory prayers -[5298.30 --> 5298.98] who would love -[5298.98 --> 5299.68] to pray for you. -[5300.08 --> 5300.46] I'm like, -[5300.50 --> 5300.98] you know what? -[5301.46 --> 5302.26] I'll do that. -[5302.44 --> 5303.08] I need prayer. -[5303.24 --> 5304.24] I'm not in a good place. -[5304.64 --> 5305.48] So I stick around -[5305.48 --> 5306.48] and there's a young guy, -[5306.62 --> 5307.92] probably in his early 30s. -[5308.34 --> 5309.14] He comes over to me. -[5309.20 --> 5309.94] I've never met him. -[5310.48 --> 5310.86] And he says, -[5310.92 --> 5311.74] can I pray for you? -[5312.06 --> 5312.68] I said, sure. -[5312.86 --> 5313.58] That's why I'm here. -[5314.08 --> 5314.58] And he says, -[5314.62 --> 5315.40] can I put my hand -[5315.40 --> 5315.94] on your chest? -[5315.94 --> 5316.18] I'm like, -[5316.24 --> 5317.24] what is going on here? -[5318.12 --> 5319.12] That's what I remember the most. -[5319.16 --> 5319.72] He puts his hand -[5319.72 --> 5320.28] on my chest -[5320.28 --> 5322.02] and for like five minutes, -[5322.14 --> 5322.64] let's say, -[5322.86 --> 5323.64] he prays. -[5323.66 --> 5324.08] And I don't know -[5324.08 --> 5324.44] what he's praying. -[5324.48 --> 5325.02] He's kind of praying -[5325.02 --> 5326.38] in his own heart, -[5326.64 --> 5327.46] just kind of murmuring. -[5328.16 --> 5329.00] And after five minutes, -[5329.00 --> 5329.38] he says, -[5329.46 --> 5330.20] can I share with you -[5330.20 --> 5330.64] what I think -[5330.64 --> 5331.62] the Spirit is saying? -[5332.20 --> 5332.96] I'm like, yeah. -[5333.86 --> 5335.34] And he starts to share things -[5335.34 --> 5336.24] that there's absolutely -[5336.24 --> 5337.84] no way he could know -[5337.84 --> 5339.24] unless the Spirit -[5339.24 --> 5340.12] was speaking through him. -[5340.22 --> 5341.18] And I did not grow up -[5341.18 --> 5342.10] in a charismatic tradition -[5342.10 --> 5342.98] where people did this, -[5343.26 --> 5344.92] but I took a steep learning curve -[5344.92 --> 5345.60] right there and then -[5345.60 --> 5345.94] where I'm like, -[5346.00 --> 5347.62] this guy knows my life. -[5347.70 --> 5348.64] He knows how I feel. -[5348.90 --> 5350.24] And he's speaking things -[5350.24 --> 5351.28] that I feel like Jesus -[5351.28 --> 5352.94] is saying directly to me -[5352.94 --> 5353.52] through him. -[5354.84 --> 5355.58] Now, there's a lot -[5355.58 --> 5356.26] of beautiful things -[5356.26 --> 5357.30] that came out of my life -[5357.30 --> 5357.80] through that, -[5357.90 --> 5359.54] but what I want to do, -[5360.10 --> 5361.16] if I could go back -[5361.16 --> 5361.94] and talk with him, -[5362.00 --> 5362.76] I'd want him to ask -[5362.76 --> 5363.54] the question to him, -[5363.96 --> 5365.34] how did you learn? -[5366.48 --> 5368.06] And I am almost certain -[5368.06 --> 5369.74] that at a young age, -[5369.78 --> 5370.64] he probably had moments -[5370.64 --> 5371.42] where he's praying -[5371.42 --> 5372.08] and he had images -[5372.08 --> 5372.62] in his head. -[5372.62 --> 5372.86] He's like, -[5372.90 --> 5373.64] well, that's weird. -[5374.32 --> 5375.30] Or he had times -[5375.30 --> 5375.64] where he's like, -[5375.70 --> 5376.56] I feel like I have -[5376.56 --> 5377.70] this voice saying something -[5377.70 --> 5378.34] that's not really -[5378.34 --> 5379.04] my own voice. -[5379.30 --> 5380.02] And he probably had -[5380.02 --> 5381.08] many situations -[5381.08 --> 5382.36] where he tried sharing -[5382.36 --> 5383.82] and it wasn't the right time. -[5384.00 --> 5384.96] Or where he tried -[5384.96 --> 5385.64] to pray for someone -[5385.64 --> 5386.40] and it felt awkward, -[5386.52 --> 5388.06] but slowly and surely, -[5388.80 --> 5389.98] he discovered the gift -[5389.98 --> 5391.04] that God gave him -[5391.04 --> 5392.78] was intercessory prayer. -[5393.64 --> 5394.82] And by God's grace, -[5394.90 --> 5396.38] he stepped bit by bit -[5396.38 --> 5397.32] into the place where, -[5397.60 --> 5398.42] like me and I'm sure -[5398.42 --> 5399.24] many other people, -[5399.56 --> 5400.66] he used his gift -[5400.66 --> 5401.86] and he blessed. -[5403.88 --> 5404.90] What's that for you? -[5406.98 --> 5407.92] What's the opportunity -[5407.92 --> 5409.46] right in front of you -[5409.46 --> 5410.30] that God has already -[5410.30 --> 5410.90] given you, -[5411.34 --> 5412.30] where you take the baby -[5412.30 --> 5413.60] steps of faithfulness -[5413.60 --> 5414.80] and in so doing, -[5414.90 --> 5415.68] you will discover -[5415.68 --> 5417.80] the power and the authority -[5417.80 --> 5419.20] of Jesus working in -[5419.20 --> 5420.72] and through you -[5420.72 --> 5421.98] to bring blessing? -[5425.52 --> 5426.58] Discipleship is not -[5426.58 --> 5428.64] passive observance, -[5428.80 --> 5429.88] although it includes that. -[5429.88 --> 5431.30] It's not just watching -[5431.30 --> 5432.66] Jesus or even other -[5432.66 --> 5433.98] Christians do what they do, -[5434.02 --> 5434.76] it's being invited -[5434.76 --> 5437.64] and sent by Jesus himself. -[5437.80 --> 5438.14] And church, -[5438.22 --> 5438.96] let me say it as clear -[5438.96 --> 5439.50] as I can, -[5439.98 --> 5441.24] his grace is sufficient. -[5442.16 --> 5443.64] His authority is real -[5443.64 --> 5444.80] because the death -[5444.80 --> 5445.48] and resurrection -[5445.48 --> 5446.64] sealed forever, -[5447.14 --> 5447.90] the presence -[5447.90 --> 5449.40] of the kingdom of God -[5449.40 --> 5450.78] that is yours to receive -[5450.78 --> 5452.20] and yours to share. -[5453.00 --> 5453.30] Amen? -[5453.30 --> 5455.64] Let me pray for us. -[5455.64 --> 5461.36] Father, we thank you -[5461.36 --> 5463.32] that you have invited us -[5463.32 --> 5464.48] to be followers -[5464.48 --> 5465.40] of your son Jesus. -[5466.38 --> 5467.44] And we praise you -[5467.44 --> 5468.14] that the invitation -[5468.14 --> 5468.98] to follow you -[5468.98 --> 5470.60] has landed in our hearts, -[5470.78 --> 5471.56] in our minds, -[5471.66 --> 5472.46] in our community. -[5473.22 --> 5474.06] I praise you -[5474.06 --> 5475.54] that as young and old, -[5476.08 --> 5477.68] we know who Jesus is -[5477.68 --> 5479.00] and that his grace -[5479.00 --> 5479.74] has met us -[5479.74 --> 5481.12] in all of our brokenness. -[5481.12 --> 5483.18] And we praise you further -[5483.18 --> 5484.64] that you say, -[5485.04 --> 5486.94] go and make disciples. -[5488.38 --> 5489.86] We pray that you'd meet us -[5489.86 --> 5490.64] in our fears, -[5491.36 --> 5492.92] that your spirit -[5492.92 --> 5494.04] would minister to us -[5494.04 --> 5494.80] in our weaknesses, -[5495.32 --> 5496.42] and even more than that, -[5496.46 --> 5497.64] that you would use us -[5497.64 --> 5498.50] in our weaknesses -[5498.50 --> 5499.36] to demonstrate -[5499.36 --> 5500.30] the power -[5500.30 --> 5501.42] and the love -[5501.42 --> 5502.24] of Jesus. -[5503.46 --> 5504.58] I ask boldly -[5504.58 --> 5505.66] that even this week, -[5506.16 --> 5507.32] there would be moments -[5507.32 --> 5507.90] and opportunities -[5507.90 --> 5508.70] for us to take -[5508.70 --> 5509.62] the baby steps -[5509.62 --> 5511.50] and that in so doing, -[5511.62 --> 5512.06] we would see -[5512.06 --> 5513.00] the power of the gospel -[5513.00 --> 5513.98] at work in -[5513.98 --> 5515.24] and through us. -[5516.20 --> 5517.44] And whatever opportunities -[5517.44 --> 5518.32] there are, Lord, -[5518.98 --> 5520.20] we pray that we would not -[5520.20 --> 5521.14] steal your glory, -[5521.64 --> 5522.28] but that we give -[5522.28 --> 5523.22] all the praise, -[5523.62 --> 5524.50] all the honor, -[5525.14 --> 5526.18] all the worship -[5526.18 --> 5527.02] to your son, -[5527.16 --> 5527.88] Jesus Christ, -[5528.00 --> 5528.52] our Lord, -[5528.62 --> 5529.24] and our Savior. -[5529.80 --> 5530.86] In his name we pray. -[5531.32 --> 5531.64] Amen. -[5532.40 --> 5533.32] Would you stand -[5533.32 --> 5533.98] and sing with me -[5533.98 --> 5534.88] a song of response? -[5539.62 --> 5547.68] What gift of grace -[5547.68 --> 5550.62] is Jesus my redeemed? -[5551.88 --> 5554.12] There is no more -[5554.12 --> 5557.20] for heaven now to be. -[5557.20 --> 5560.58] He is my joy, -[5561.12 --> 5562.34] my righteousness, -[5563.00 --> 5563.94] and peace. -[5563.94 --> 5567.06] My steadfast love, -[5567.70 --> 5570.82] my deep and honest peace. -[5571.76 --> 5573.70] To this I hold, -[5574.16 --> 5577.30] my hope is only Jesus. -[5578.70 --> 5583.48] For my life is holy now to you. -[5584.94 --> 5588.00] Oh, how strange and divine -[5588.00 --> 5591.92] I can see all is mine -[5591.92 --> 5595.58] and all I've come through Christ. -[5595.58 --> 5609.94] The night is dark, -[5609.94 --> 5613.16] but I am not the same. -[5614.34 --> 5616.58] Oh, by my side, -[5617.08 --> 5617.98] the Savior, -[5618.34 --> 5619.98] He will stay. -[5621.12 --> 5623.22] I labor all -[5623.22 --> 5624.54] in weakness -[5624.54 --> 5626.50] and be chosen. -[5627.70 --> 5629.58] Oh, in my name -[5629.58 --> 5632.88] His power is displayed. -[5634.54 --> 5636.30] This I hold, -[5636.72 --> 5637.66] my shepherd, -[5638.02 --> 5640.40] will defend me. -[5641.08 --> 5644.30] Through the deepest valley -[5644.30 --> 5645.84] He will live. -[5647.46 --> 5650.78] Oh, the night has been won -[5650.78 --> 5653.70] and I shall overcome -[5653.70 --> 5655.80] yet not I -[5655.80 --> 5658.50] through cause of me. -[5664.10 --> 5665.74] Oh, faith I tread, -[5666.10 --> 5669.04] I know I am forgiven. -[5670.16 --> 5672.18] The future's sure, -[5672.90 --> 5676.00] the price it has been paid. -[5676.00 --> 5678.92] Oh, Jesus paid -[5678.92 --> 5682.36] and suffered for my heart -[5682.36 --> 5685.70] and He was raised -[5685.70 --> 5689.22] to overthrow the land. -[5689.22 --> 5692.14] To this I hold, -[5692.14 --> 5695.64] my sin has been defeated. -[5696.96 --> 5700.44] Jesus now and ever -[5700.44 --> 5702.42] is my name. -[5703.48 --> 5705.14] Oh, the chains -[5705.14 --> 5706.14] I believe -[5706.14 --> 5708.28] I can see -[5708.28 --> 5709.88] I am free -[5709.88 --> 5711.54] in love -[5711.54 --> 5713.90] through Christ. -[5713.90 --> 5730.76] Amen. -[5730.76 --> 5731.82] Let's return the glory -[5731.82 --> 5732.38] and pay -[5732.38 --> 5734.82] for He has saved -[5734.82 --> 5738.44] That He will bring me home -[5738.44 --> 5744.38] In day by day I know He will return -[5744.38 --> 5751.74] Until I stay with joy before the Lord -[5751.74 --> 5758.82] To this I long, my hope is only Jesus -[5758.82 --> 5764.56] For the glory of an old to Him -[5764.56 --> 5770.80] If the rest is confessed in my days -[5770.80 --> 5775.98] I'll repeat it, no, I've been through Christ -[5775.98 --> 5782.98] In me, no, I've been through Christ -[5794.56 --> 5798.44] It is a gift to receive God's blessing -[5798.44 --> 5799.90] We started our service with it -[5799.90 --> 5802.00] Our children were able to give that blessing -[5802.00 --> 5803.10] And at the end of the service -[5803.10 --> 5805.40] I invite you to hold out your hands -[5805.40 --> 5808.18] And to receive the oldest blessing in the Bible -[5808.18 --> 5810.24] This is called the Aaronic Blessing -[5810.24 --> 5813.76] The Lord bless you and keep you -[5813.76 --> 5817.64] The Lord make His face shine upon you -[5817.64 --> 5819.22] And be gracious to you -[5819.22 --> 5822.52] The Lord turn His face towards you -[5822.52 --> 5825.06] And give you His peace -[5825.06 --> 5827.90] And the church together says, Amen -[5827.90 --> 5828.16] Amen -[5828.16 --> 5833.14] We're going to close in one final song -[5833.14 --> 5836.44] That reflects pillars of our faith -[5836.44 --> 5838.88] Through creeds sung through generations -[5838.88 --> 5839.76] Let's sing together -[5839.76 --> 5859.14] Let's sing together -[5859.14 --> 5863.06] Let's sing together -[5863.06 --> 5863.72] I believe there is one salvation -[5863.72 --> 5867.20] One doorway that leads to life -[5867.20 --> 5875.80] One redemption, one confession, I believe in the name of Jesus Christ. -[5881.50 --> 5888.80] I believe in the crucifixion, by His blood I have been set free. -[5888.80 --> 5897.04] I believe in the resurrection, hallelujah, His love is destined for me. -[5897.86 --> 5899.00] Sing, I'll pray. -[5900.14 --> 5903.46] Oh, praise to God the Father. -[5903.82 --> 5907.06] Oh, praise to Christ the Son. -[5907.74 --> 5910.68] Oh, praise to the Holy Spirit. -[5910.68 --> 5913.96] Our God has overcome. -[5915.06 --> 5920.68] The King who was and is and evermore will be. -[5921.28 --> 5926.08] In Jesus' mighty name, I believe. -[5927.20 --> 5932.96] I believe, I believe. -[5938.86 --> 5946.78] Do I believe that the hope of heaven is preparing a place for me? -[5946.78 --> 5948.44] I love you all. -[5949.12 --> 5950.46] Lots of magic. -[5950.90 --> 5953.86] He's a flower who eyes have seen. -[5954.34 --> 5957.54] I believe that a day is coming. -[5957.54 --> 5960.54] He's returning to claim His bride. -[5961.54 --> 5962.98] Light the altar. -[5963.58 --> 5964.76] Keep it burning. -[5965.34 --> 5967.44] See the Lamb of Rose. -[5967.44 --> 5970.78] He's returning to the Holy Spirit. -[5970.78 --> 5972.20] He's returning to the Holy Spirit. -[5972.20 --> 5973.02] He's returning to the Holy Spirit. -[5973.02 --> 5975.60] Oh, praise to God the Father. -[5975.60 --> 5979.30] Oh, praise to Christ the Son. -[5979.30 --> 5982.82] Oh, praise to the Holy Spirit. -[5983.48 --> 5985.92] As our God has overcome. -[5987.02 --> 5998.04] The King who was and is and evermore will be in Jesus' mighty name, I believe. -[5998.04 --> 6005.22] We are not ashamed -[6005.22 --> 6012.50] I know I'll never be ashamed -[6012.50 --> 6015.98] Of the gospel of Jesus Christ -[6015.98 --> 6019.66] Could I ever walk away -[6019.66 --> 6023.30] The one who has saved my life -[6023.30 --> 6026.98] I know I'll never be ashamed -[6026.98 --> 6030.50] Of the gospel of Jesus Christ -[6030.50 --> 6034.20] Could I ever walk away -[6034.20 --> 6038.90] The one who has saved my life -[6038.90 --> 6041.34] I know I'll never be ashamed -[6041.34 --> 6045.38] Of the gospel of Jesus Christ -[6045.38 --> 6048.72] Could I ever walk away -[6048.72 --> 6053.98] The one who has saved my life -[6053.98 --> 6058.62] Oh praise to God the Father -[6058.62 --> 6062.30] Oh praise to Christ the Son -[6062.30 --> 6065.90] Oh praise to the Holy Spirit -[6065.90 --> 6069.44] Because our God has overcome -[6069.44 --> 6072.96] The King who was in His -[6072.96 --> 6075.90] Evermore will be -[6075.90 --> 6079.28] In Jesus mighty name -[6079.28 --> 6081.34] I believe -[6081.34 --> 6086.64] In Jesus mighty name -[6086.64 --> 6088.28] I believe -[6088.28 --> 6093.20] Amen -[6093.20 --> 6094.16] You can be seated -[6094.16 --> 6101.96] All right -[6101.96 --> 6103.96] Reactivate 2025 -[6103.96 --> 6108.30] This concludes our weekend -[6108.30 --> 6113.66] We can all exhale -[6113.66 --> 6115.70] We can sleep on the bus -[6115.70 --> 6117.40] We can sleep in the cars -[6117.40 --> 6118.62] You can rest -[6118.62 --> 6120.20] We thank you all so much -[6120.20 --> 6121.14] For coming on out -[6121.14 --> 6122.18] Reactivate why don't you give yourselves -[6122.18 --> 6123.04] Just a round of applause -[6123.04 --> 6123.60] For coming on out -[6123.60 --> 6130.30] Just a couple notes -[6130.30 --> 6131.88] As we wrap it up here -[6131.88 --> 6134.14] Make sure to bring home -[6134.14 --> 6135.14] All of your stuff -[6135.14 --> 6137.20] Please don't leave it here -[6137.20 --> 6138.76] Otherwise the Mission Thrift Store -[6138.76 --> 6140.28] Is going to get a large donation -[6140.28 --> 6140.94] This week -[6140.94 --> 6143.00] So please take your things home -[6143.00 --> 6144.72] Emmanuel Youth -[6144.72 --> 6145.84] Good news -[6145.84 --> 6147.44] You're the host church -[6147.44 --> 6149.06] If you're an Emmanuel Youth -[6149.06 --> 6150.88] You're going to join me -[6150.88 --> 6151.80] In the back field -[6151.80 --> 6152.90] We're going to do a quick walk -[6152.90 --> 6154.02] And grab all the garbage -[6154.02 --> 6155.26] If you're a youth -[6155.26 --> 6156.24] From another church -[6156.24 --> 6157.74] And want to join us -[6157.74 --> 6158.72] Please do -[6158.72 --> 6159.34] You're welcome to -[6159.34 --> 6159.86] But Emmanuel Youth -[6159.86 --> 6160.78] That's what we're going to be up to -[6160.78 --> 6161.02] Okay -[6161.02 --> 6161.72] Youth and leaders -[6161.72 --> 6162.38] We're going to head to the back -[6162.38 --> 6162.90] And do that -[6162.90 --> 6166.02] Make sure to say thank you -[6166.02 --> 6166.78] To the leaders -[6166.78 --> 6167.96] That you've got -[6167.96 --> 6169.44] Youth when you disappear -[6169.44 --> 6170.08] If you're going home -[6170.08 --> 6170.96] With your parents today -[6170.96 --> 6172.48] Please check in -[6172.48 --> 6174.10] With your youth pastor -[6174.10 --> 6174.72] Your youth leader -[6174.72 --> 6175.26] Whoever's here -[6175.26 --> 6176.34] Make sure that they know -[6176.34 --> 6177.40] That you are leaving -[6177.40 --> 6178.54] The premise -[6178.54 --> 6179.56] That is it -[6179.56 --> 6181.66] For our closing details -[6181.66 --> 6183.10] Here for Reactivate -[6183.10 --> 6185.20] This concludes Reactivate 2025 -[6185.20 --> 6187.56] But we have already begun -[6187.56 --> 6189.94] Planning for Reactivate 2026 -[6189.94 --> 6191.42] And we are planning -[6191.42 --> 6194.46] This is the last Reactivate -[6194.46 --> 6195.52] Happening in Langley -[6195.52 --> 6198.04] We are planning on having -[6198.04 --> 6203.46] Next year Reactivate -[6203.46 --> 6204.64] Will not be happening in Langley -[6204.64 --> 6207.46] We are planning on having -[6207.46 --> 6208.80] Reactivate 2026 -[6208.80 --> 6210.20] In Salmon Arm, BC -[6210.20 --> 6216.36] We hope to see you there next year -[6216.36 --> 6217.34] Go now in peace -[6217.34 --> 6218.24] To follow Jesus -[6218.24 --> 6238.98] I can't count the times I've called you names -[6239.02 --> 6239.94] What's next? -[6239.94 --> 6241.98] Thank you for growing up -[6241.98 --> 6243.52] For everything that you're leaving -[6243.52 --> 6244.62] Are you there now? -[6244.62 --> 6245.38] Thank you very much -[6245.38 --> 6245.48] 赤 -[6245.48 --> 6246.56] struggling -[6246.62 --> 6248.06] Terima -[6248.06 --> 6248.96] Do you think I'm sure you didn't -[6248.96 --> 6250.92] get me -[6250.92 --> 6251.74] You know -[6251.74 --> 6251.94] We should get back -[6251.94 --> 6253.04] You better -[6253.04 --> 6253.74] Think it -[6253.86 --> 6254.06] example -[6254.08 --> 6254.72] стро -[6254.72 --> 6254.88] timbers -[6254.88 --> 6255.66] Suretric -[6255.66 --> 6255.72] ja -[6255.90 --> 6258.34] nach -[6258.34 --> 6258.74] Esaaaa -[6258.74 --> 6260.30] Port -[6260.30 --> 6260.88] marpsilon -[6260.88 --> 6261.72] mad vrij -[6261.72 --> 6262.74] Tod -[6262.74 --> 6263.80] Do you like -[6263.80 --> 6264.72] but -[6264.72 --> 6265.34] Think it -[6265.34 --> 6265.80] Look -[6265.80 --> 6266.44] There -[6266.44 --> 6266.68] Please -[6266.68 --> 6267.90] hous -[6267.90 --> 6275.14] Cause I know where I'd be without your mercy -[6275.14 --> 6280.62] So I keep praising your name at the top of my lungs -[6280.62 --> 6284.86] Tell me, is he good? He's good -[6284.86 --> 6287.98] Tell me, is he God? He's God -[6287.98 --> 6292.42] He is good God Almighty -[6292.42 --> 6296.84] You say your love goes on forever -[6296.84 --> 6300.04] That your mercy never stops -[6300.04 --> 6304.26] So why would I assume you'll be somebody -[6304.26 --> 6307.60] That you're not like sun in the morning -[6307.60 --> 6311.66] I know you're gonna be there every day -[6311.66 --> 6316.24] So what wonder could make me be afraid? -[6317.24 --> 6319.42] Good God Almighty -[6319.42 --> 6323.14] I hope you'll find me -[6323.14 --> 6328.42] Praising your name no matter what comes -[6328.42 --> 6334.30] Cause I know where I'd be without your mercy -[6334.30 --> 6339.86] So I keep praising your name at the top of my lungs -[6339.86 --> 6344.08] Tell me, is he good? He's good -[6344.08 --> 6347.24] Tell me, is he God? He's God -[6347.24 --> 6351.74] He is good God Almighty -[6351.74 --> 6357.04] Praise him in the morning, praise him in the noontime -[6357.04 --> 6359.14] Praise him when the sun goes down -[6359.14 --> 6362.94] Love him in the morning, love him in the noontime -[6362.94 --> 6364.90] Love him when the sun goes down -[6364.90 --> 6366.92] Good God Almighty, good God Almighty -[6366.92 --> 6368.62] I hope you'll find me -[6368.62 --> 6369.62] I hope you'll find me -[6369.62 --> 6370.62] I hope you'll find me -[6370.62 --> 6371.74] I hope you'll find me -[6371.74 --> 6374.78] Praising your name no matter what comes -[6374.78 --> 6375.80] Praise him in the morning, praise him in the noontime -[6375.80 --> 6376.36] Praise him in the morning, praise him in the noontime -[6376.36 --> 6380.84] Cause I know where I'd be without your mercy -[6380.84 --> 6386.36] Oh, so I keep praising your name at the top of my lungs -[6386.36 --> 6390.12] Tell me is he good -[6390.12 --> 6393.14] Tell me is he God -[6393.14 --> 6399.14] He is good God Almighty -[6399.14 --> 6402.78] Jesus in the morning -[6402.78 --> 6404.46] Jesus in the noontime -[6404.46 --> 6406.58] Jesus when the sun goes down -[6406.58 --> 6408.72] Jesus in the morning -[6408.72 --> 6410.34] Jesus in the noontime -[6410.34 --> 6412.54] Jesus when the sun goes down -[6412.54 --> 6422.54] Jesus in the morning -[6442.54 --> 6472.52] Jesus in the morning -[6472.54 --> 6502.52] Jesus in the morning -[6502.54 --> 6532.52] Jesus in the morning -[6532.54 --> 6534.54] Jesus in the morning -[6562.54 --> 6564.54] Jesus in the morning -[6564.54 --> 6566.54] Jesus in the morning -[6566.54 --> 6568.34] Jesus in the morning -[6568.34 --> 6570.48] Jesus in the morning -[6570.48 --> 6572.04] Jesus in the morning -[6572.04 --> 6572.54] Yu plates -[6572.54 --> 6574.54] Jesus in the morning -[6574.54 --> 6575.60] Jesus in the morning -[6575.60 --> 6577.54] Jesus in the morning -[6577.54 --> 6579.54] Jesus in the morning -[6579.54 --> 6609.52] Thank you. -[6609.54 --> 6639.52] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, April 13, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, April 13, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b6c6a13dc67381c1ffb5c92e08a618bafd53f9aa..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, April 13, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,121 +0,0 @@ -• Reading from The King by Tanner Olson -• Storytelling about Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, his miracles and healings -• Reflection on Jesus as the king who brings hope and salvation -• Worship through music, specifically singing "The Lion and the Lamb" -• The worship service features a repetition of Bible verses and hymns about Jesus Christ, including references to His resurrection and power -• A deacon introduces the morning's offering for the Langley Food Bank, a non-profit organization supported by local churches and businesses -• Various individuals lead in singing and praying, with some comments on the significance of Jesus' resurrection and its impact on the lives of believers -• The pastor invites children to participate in children's worship time and briefly discusses Palm Sunday and Good Friday before moving on to the main service -• Introduction to congregational family prayer on Palm Sunday -• Prayer for council nomination process and consideration of members' gifts and talents -• Thanks for successful knee replacement surgery and recovery -• Prayers for members struggling with mental health challenges, seeking comfort and healing -• Updates on Tessa's recovery and Doug and Tanya's cancer treatment -• Requests for courage for those struggling with private addictions to seek help -• Comfort and encouragement for those experiencing pain of loss due to death of loved ones -• Introduction to the Palm Sunday text in the gospel accounts -• Text from Luke 19:37-40 and Psalm 118 discussed -• Jesus weeps over Jerusalem because its people did not recognize him as the Messiah -• The "triumphal entry" story, where Jesus enters Jerusalem with crowds proclaiming him king -• The importance of recognizing Jesus' true identity and kingship -• Comparison between Matthew and Mark's accounts of this event, highlighting the emphasis on Jesus being a king from David's line -• The phrase "not Caesar, but our guy" is discussed in the context of the Roman Empire and Jesus' potential to gather armies against it. -• The Pharisees are aware of the implications of this language and try to silence Jesus, fearing he will upset the status quo with Rome. -• A story from 1 Kings 1 about King David's transition of power to his son Solomon is referenced, highlighting the importance of anointing a leader and their acceptance by the people. -• The concept of a "man after God's own heart" is discussed in relation to King David, who was promised an everlasting kingdom but also had the sword associated with him. -• The quote "those who live by the sword will die by the sword" comes from the story of David -• Solomon had over 700 wives and 300 concubines, leading to his worship of foreign gods including Ashtoreth (fertility goddess) and Molech (associated with child sacrifice) -• Despite this, Solomon is also known for his humility and wisdom, particularly in asking God for godly wisdom when given the opportunity -• The people celebrated Solomon's coronation in 1 Kings 1, with loud cheers, trumpets, and pipes -• The Greek translation of the Old Testament (Septuagint) translates 1 Kings 1 verse 40 as "the ground broke forth with its voice", emphasizing the massive celebration -• Solomon's story is seen as a mix of good and bad qualities, with both wisdom and idolatry present in his life -• Jesus' kingdom is characterized by humility and wisdom, rather than power and violence -• The Triumphal Entry in the Bible is an "ah-triumphal" entry because it reveals a different kind of king -• Many people did not understand or recognize Jesus as he came to Jerusalem -• Some groups, such as the Pharisees, were particularly resistant to understanding who Jesus was -• In modern times, many people think they know who Jesus is, but may not truly understand him -• A study on religious identity in Canada found that 24% of Canadians attended religious services once a month -• Decline in religious service attendance and Bible reading among Christians -• Statistics on Christian identification and worship habits -• Jesus as a figure who will be worshipped despite lack of knowledge about him -• A phrase from Jesus (Luke 19:40) where he says stones and ground will cry out if people are silent -• Call to action for listeners to fulfill their purpose in worshipping God -• The distinction between knowing about Jesus and having a personal relationship with Him -• Knowing facts about Jesus but not experiencing His presence or joy -• The importance of digging deep into the nature of God to understand one's purpose and find peace -• Jesus' longing to be known by people, despite many thinking they know Him but actually don't -• A passage from the Bible (Luke 19:41-44) where Jesus weeps over Jerusalem because they do not recognize the time of His coming -• AD 70 destruction of Jerusalem described by historians Josephus, Tacitus, and Suetonius -• Thorough destruction that left no one able to tell anyone had lived there -• Quote from Jesus about not leaving a stone on another after the destruction -• Story of visiting the Mount of Olives in 2018 with permission to stand on top and see the Temple Mount and Jerusalem -• The speaker reflects on Jesus' tears for those who don't know him -• The weight of evangelism and the importance of sharing one's faith -• The issue of people who think they know God but are missing something fundamental about Him -• The tension between having a sense of superiority in knowing all the answers vs. moving with compassion to help others see -• The speaker connects this conversation to the idea that many people have rejected traditional religious messages and are now embracing secularism as a substitute, specifically referencing the "secular gospel" or myth that says God is dead and individuals can do what they want without consequences -• Concerns about the meaninglessness of modern life and its impact on anxiety -• Statistics showing an increase in men under 35 attending religious services at least once a month -• Trend of younger Canadians being more likely to attend religious services than older generations -• Younger Christians (under 35) are twice as likely to attend religious services compared to other groups -• Immigrants who identify as Canadian make up the second largest group in attendance -• Bible Society's "Quiet Revival" report on UK church attendance statistics from 2018 to 2024 -• Increase in regular church attenders among 18-24 year olds from 8% to 12% -• Similar trend in Canada with increased church attendance among young adults -• One-third of adult church goers in the UK are now between 18 and 30 years old, up from 14% -• 32% of under 55 church goers in Britain are immigrants -• Shift from nominal Christianity to practicing and living the faith -• Statistics showing higher anxiety and less hope among those identifying as Christian but not attending church -• Importance of self-reporting own well-being in relation to Christianity -• Warning that claiming to be Christian without engaging in practices is bad for individuals -• Contrasting benefits of going to church compared to simply identifying as Christian -• The concept of God's work in our midst and the idea that we can partner with Him to cooperate with the Holy Spirit -• The potential for a quiet revival or renewed spiritual movement, possibly triggered by Palm Sunday -• The importance of recognizing Jesus' true nature and meeting Him through worship and scripture -• Gratitude for God's presence and activity in our lives, expressed through prayer and praise -• Welcoming and joining in the feast -• Lifting up the celebrant as king -• Inviting everyone to the banquet table -• Sharing a special liturgy for Palm Sunday -• Participating in the ceremony and saying certain prayers -• Blessing the king who comes in the name of the Lord -• The Lord's Supper and its significance -• Remembrance of Jesus' death and resurrection -• Proclaiming the Lord's death until he comes again -• Understanding Jesus' true nature through faith -• Seeing Jesus in truth and beholding God's glory -• Invitation to worship God with gladness -• Confession of sins and following Jesus as Lord -• Invitations to come to the table of the Lord -• The gifts of God for the people of God in worship -• Upcoming stations for service by pastoral elders -• Preparing for the next three songs -• Receiving bread and juice from elders -• Consuming them at a station or taking back to seats -• Continuing reflection, meditation, and worship -• Indications for taking communion -• Procedure for handling smaller portions if required -• Elder will be roving through the space -• Invitation for elders to come forward and serve -• Worship team process: go through the line, take the stage, lead in song -• Transition to worship and prayer -• Mention of necessary connection or presence (no clear context) -• Reference to a song "Christ on the road to Calvary" -• Description of Christ's sacrifice and power of the cross -• The power and significance of the cross -• Redemption from sin through Jesus Christ -• Sacrificial love and forgiveness at the cross -• Worship and praise to God -• Overcoming shyness and singing praises to God with a "lion's" voice inside -• Praise to God and Jesus -• Assurance of salvation through Christ's blood -• The power of prayer and worship -• Encouragement to walk with God and receive His blessing -• Mission update and invitation for fellowship and service -• Benediction and encouragement to love and serve the King -• Worship and praise to God -• The Trinity: Father, Son, Spirit -• Salvation through Jesus Christ's sacrifice and resurrection -• Redemption of creation and reconciliation of the lost -• Praise and adoration of Jesus as the King of Kings and Prince of Peace -• Testimony of gratitude and thanksgiving \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, April 13, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, April 13, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3dcff1a6894beae178bc19a26bd56b8a527605f6..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, April 13, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2666 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 599.98] Thank you. -[600.00 --> 629.98] Thank you. -[630.00 --> 659.98] Thank you. -[659.98 --> 689.96] Thank you. -[689.98 --> 719.96] Thank you. -[719.98 --> 749.96] Thank you. -[749.98 --> 779.98] Thank you. -[779.98 --> 809.96] Thank you. -[809.98 --> 810.00] Thank you. -[839.98 --> 869.96] Thank you. -[869.96 --> 899.96] Thank you. -[899.96 --> 929.96] Thank you. -[929.96 --> 959.94] Thank you. -[959.96 --> 989.94] Thank you. -[989.94 --> 990.94] Thank you. -[1019.94 --> 1049.92] Thank you. -[1049.92 --> 1079.90] Thank you. -[1079.92 --> 1109.90] Thank you. -[1109.92 --> 1139.90] Thank you. -[1139.92 --> 1169.90] Thank you. -[1169.92 --> 1199.90] Thank you. -[1199.92 --> 1229.90] Thank you. -[1229.90 --> 1259.88] Thank you. -[1259.90 --> 1289.88] Thank you. -[1289.90 --> 1319.88] Thank you. -[1319.90 --> 1349.88] Thank you. -[1349.90 --> 1379.88] Thank you. -[1379.90 --> 1409.88] Thank you. -[1409.90 --> 1439.88] Thank you. -[1439.90 --> 1469.88] Thank you. -[1469.90 --> 1499.88] Thank you. -[1499.90 --> 1529.88] Thank you. -[1529.90 --> 1559.88] Thank you. -[1559.88 --> 1589.86] Hosanna, Hosanna. -[1589.86 --> 1594.86] Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest. -[1596.86 --> 1606.86] Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest. -[1608.86 --> 1611.86] Hosanna in the highest. -[1619.86 --> 1622.86] I invite you all to take a seat. -[1638.86 --> 1642.86] I'll be reading The King by Tanner Olson. -[1643.86 --> 1646.86] You've done things differently, and you've never failed. -[1646.86 --> 1654.86] Like the time you turned water to wine, or like you rubbed mud on the blind man's eyes so he could see. -[1655.86 --> 1659.86] Or when you healed the paralyzed man because his friends truly believed. -[1660.86 --> 1664.86] Or when you healed the paralyzed man because, sorry, truly believed. -[1665.86 --> 1669.86] And like the time you entered Jerusalem, riding on the back of a colt, and they asked who is this, -[1670.86 --> 1673.86] and they along with the rest of the world would soon know. -[1673.86 --> 1676.86] They knew you as the one who healed the sick and fed the poor. -[1677.86 --> 1681.86] The one who turned lives inside out and upside down. -[1682.86 --> 1690.86] The one who had 12 close friends, raised a man named Lazarus from the dead, and told the cripple to get out of bed. -[1690.86 --> 1692.86] But soon he would see you. -[1692.86 --> 1695.86] Soon they would see you. -[1695.86 --> 1698.86] More than anyone had come before. -[1698.86 --> 1700.86] Just in time, hope had arrived. -[1700.86 --> 1705.86] Some cheered and cried, Hosanna, save us, save us now, please save us. -[1706.86 --> 1711.86] They waved palm branches and laid them down so they wouldn't have to touch the ground. -[1711.86 --> 1717.86] Children sat at the shoulders of parents and they pointed to the one they had been waiting for. -[1718.86 --> 1724.86] Echoes of Jesus, Lord, filled the city as you moved forward the beginning of the end. -[1724.86 --> 1728.86] And we thought that the king was coming to take his crown. -[1728.86 --> 1735.86] But you knew the king was coming to be buried in the ground, to bring us from lost to found. -[1736.86 --> 1745.86] Good arrives only to die, only to rise, only for the world to realize you are who you say you are, the king. -[1745.86 --> 1752.86] Please stand and join us as we sing the Lion and the Lamb. -[1752.86 --> 1755.86] The King of the Lamb's Prince, King of the Lamb's Prince, King of the Lamb's Prince. -[1755.86 --> 1772.86] He's coming on the clouds, kings and kingdoms will bow down. -[1772.86 --> 1777.86] He to kingdoms without doubt -[1777.86 --> 1784.34] And every chain will break -[1784.34 --> 1787.86] As broken hearts declare His praise -[1788.58 --> 1792.60] For who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[1794.18 --> 1799.18] Our God is a lion, the lion of Judah -[1799.18 --> 1805.14] He is roaring with power and fighting our battles -[1805.14 --> 1809.74] And every knee will bow before Him -[1809.74 --> 1815.18] Our God is a lamb, the lamb that was slain -[1815.94 --> 1821.54] For the sins of the Lord His blood breaks the chains -[1821.54 --> 1827.10] And every knee will bow before the lion and the man -[1827.10 --> 1831.94] And every knee will bow before Him -[1831.94 --> 1845.24] So open up the gates -[1845.24 --> 1849.10] Make way before the King of kings -[1849.10 --> 1856.32] The God who comes to save -[1856.32 --> 1860.26] Is here to set the captives free -[1860.26 --> 1864.50] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[1865.94 --> 1871.10] Our God is a lion, the lion of Judah -[1871.10 --> 1876.94] He is roaring with power and fighting our battles -[1876.94 --> 1881.66] And every knee will bow before Him -[1881.66 --> 1887.82] Our God is a lamb, the lamb that was slain -[1887.82 --> 1893.10] For the sins of the Lord His blood breaks the chains -[1893.10 --> 1897.94] And every knee will bow before Him -[1897.94 --> 1901.94] And every knee will bow before Him -[1901.94 --> 1903.44] And every knee will bow before Him -[1903.44 --> 1926.28] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[1926.28 --> 1934.96] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[1934.96 --> 1936.04] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[1936.04 --> 1937.60] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[1937.60 --> 1943.40] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[1943.40 --> 1947.78] Who can stop the Lord? -[1947.78 --> 1956.18] Our God is the Lion, the Lion of Judah -[1956.18 --> 1961.82] He is roaring with power and fighting our battle -[1961.82 --> 1966.58] Every knee will bow before Him -[1966.58 --> 1972.58] Our God is the Lamb, the Lamb that will slay -[1972.58 --> 1978.12] For the sins of the world, His blood breaks the chains -[1978.12 --> 1983.62] Every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb -[1983.62 --> 1988.40] Every knee will bow before Him -[2002.58 --> 2016.58] Good morning, my name is Yap, I'm a deacon here at Langley Emanuel -[2016.58 --> 2020.24] This morning's offering will be for the Langley Food Bank -[2020.24 --> 2023.88] They're a non-profit organization -[2023.88 --> 2029.82] Which is entirely funded through the support of local churches, businesses, and individuals -[2029.82 --> 2032.88] Your donations are much appreciated -[2032.88 --> 2034.68] If you want to give to the general budget -[2034.68 --> 2038.90] You can use the envelopes in the seat in front of you -[2038.90 --> 2040.16] Thank you -[2059.82 --> 2072.76] There's a reason why the curse of sin is broken -[2072.76 --> 2079.28] There's a reason why the darkness runs from light -[2079.28 --> 2084.66] There's a reason why we stand here now forgiven -[2084.66 --> 2087.36] Jesus is alive -[2087.36 --> 2097.06] There's a reason why we are unovertaken -[2097.06 --> 2102.82] There's a reason why we sing on through the night -[2102.82 --> 2108.80] There's a reason why our hope remains eternal -[2108.80 --> 2111.50] Jesus is alive -[2111.50 --> 2123.20] Praise the King, He is risen -[2123.20 --> 2126.96] Praise the King, He's alive -[2126.96 --> 2135.20] Praise the King, destiny, heaven -[2135.20 --> 2139.20] Hallelujah, He's alive -[2139.20 --> 2142.86] Hallelujah, He's alive -[2142.86 --> 2145.06] Hallelujah, He's alive -[2145.06 --> 2150.90] There's a reason why our hearts can be released -[2150.90 --> 2156.90] There's a reason why the dead are made alive -[2156.90 --> 2162.90] There's a reason why we share His resurrection -[2162.90 --> 2164.60] Jesus is alive -[2164.60 --> 2172.60] Praise the King, He is risen -[2172.60 --> 2174.60] Praise the King, He is risen -[2174.60 --> 2176.60] Praise the King, He's alive -[2176.60 --> 2180.60] Praise the King, He's alive -[2180.60 --> 2183.60] Praise the King, death's defeated -[2183.60 --> 2189.46] Praise the King, death's defeated -[2189.46 --> 2193.30] Hallelujah, He is alive -[2193.30 --> 2195.30] Hallelujah, He is alive -[2195.30 --> 2199.30] Hallelujah, He is alive -[2199.30 --> 2213.00] Praise the King, death's defeated -[2213.00 --> 2215.94] The grave could not ignore it -[2215.94 --> 2218.94] When all of heaven's roaring -[2218.94 --> 2221.74] Now where is your victory? -[2222.22 --> 2224.72] Death, where is your sting? -[2225.08 --> 2227.88] The world could not ignore it -[2227.88 --> 2231.08] When all the saints are roaring -[2231.08 --> 2233.52] Now where is your victory? -[2233.52 --> 2236.02] Death, where is your sting? -[2236.48 --> 2239.74] The grave could not ignore it -[2239.74 --> 2242.58] When all of heaven's roaring -[2242.58 --> 2245.58] Hell, where is your victory? -[2246.06 --> 2248.14] Death, where is your sting? -[2248.80 --> 2251.68] The world cannot ignore it -[2251.68 --> 2254.40] When all the saints are roaring -[2254.40 --> 2257.30] Now where is your victory? -[2257.30 --> 2261.14] death where is your sting -[2261.14 --> 2267.46] praise the king -[2267.46 --> 2270.48] he is risen -[2270.48 --> 2272.78] praise the king -[2272.78 --> 2274.52] he's alive -[2274.52 --> 2278.94] praise the king -[2278.94 --> 2281.70] death's defeated -[2281.70 --> 2284.36] hallelujah -[2284.36 --> 2286.40] he's alive -[2286.40 --> 2290.00] hallelujah -[2290.00 --> 2291.58] he's alive -[2291.58 --> 2295.76] hallelujah -[2295.76 --> 2297.84] he's alive -[2297.84 --> 2312.38] good morning everyone -[2312.38 --> 2314.64] I'd like to invite any of the kids to come up -[2314.64 --> 2317.44] if you're age 3 all the way up to grade 4 -[2317.44 --> 2319.94] we're going to head off for children's worship time -[2319.94 --> 2324.38] and then the K24s will come back to celebrate Lord's Supper -[2324.38 --> 2343.26] so last week in children's worship time with Pastor Kevin you guys actually talked about Palm Sunday -[2343.26 --> 2354.36] so with children's worship time every year for the grown-ups here we always run into this problem where there's a lot of content and not as many Sundays so we usually talk about Good Friday on Palm Sunday -[2354.36 --> 2384.34] so that we can go over that important holiday and then next week we can focus on Easter Resurrection Sunday so they are well prepared for Palm Sunday today I could see that thank you for helping show us what that would have looked like on back in Jesus's time waving all those branches and today we're going to talk a little about how Jesus had to die first so that's going to be our topic today about how Jesus is our Savior and that's before he died before he rose he died so -[2384.36 --> 2395.70] because I have lots planned over there I just didn't plan a lot here today so we're going to just stand up right away and do the blessing and then we'll have enough time to get everything done before we come back so standing up -[2395.70 --> 2403.68] and do the plan -[2404.40 --> 2406.50] and Trется -[2408.70 --> 2413.42] and Leng -[2415.56 --> 2416.40] and -[2416.40 --> 2416.68] and -[2416.68 --> 2418.22] move -[2418.50 --> 2418.80] all -[2418.80 --> 2419.56] and -[2419.56 --> 2447.10] Good morning. -[2447.10 --> 2456.30] My name is Clary, and I'm an elder here, and it's my privilege to lead us in our congregational -[2456.30 --> 2457.58] family prayer. -[2457.90 --> 2460.58] So will you please join me in prayer? -[2462.56 --> 2470.56] Father in heaven, it is once again really good to be here gathered together. -[2470.56 --> 2473.24] Father, thank you. -[2473.48 --> 2482.14] Thank you for the beauty of this day, and thank you that we can celebrate Palm Sunday together -[2482.14 --> 2488.66] and remember your story and our part in it. -[2488.66 --> 2498.10] And today, Lord, like we always do, because it is good, we want to bring the concerns of -[2498.10 --> 2499.62] our congregation to you. -[2500.08 --> 2505.94] And of course, I've got a short list of six or seven things here, but we know with all -[2505.94 --> 2512.32] of us here, seriously, we could come up with hundreds and hundreds of petitions. -[2513.18 --> 2520.16] But right now, at this moment, we want to bring these, maybe our biggest praises and concerns -[2520.16 --> 2521.36] to you. -[2522.44 --> 2530.12] Father, we want to ask that you are with us as a congregation as we are going through our -[2530.12 --> 2531.78] council nomination process. -[2531.78 --> 2538.86] This is a thing we do every year, so on the one hand, it's kind of old news because it's -[2538.86 --> 2547.50] not long ago we did last year's, but we ask, Father, that we may prayerfully consider those -[2547.50 --> 2553.00] people in our congregation who have gifts and talents that would serve us well. -[2553.06 --> 2558.78] And if we are one of those people who's asked, may we prayerfully consider. -[2558.78 --> 2565.86] We want to give you thanks, Lord, that Matt Schaap underwent successful knee replacement -[2565.86 --> 2568.70] surgery and is much improved. -[2569.08 --> 2577.54] Father, we thank you for the gift of surgeons and the technology and the system that has so -[2577.54 --> 2578.14] helped him out. -[2579.64 --> 2586.36] We want to remember those members of our congregation, Lord, who are struggling with mental health -[2586.36 --> 2586.96] challenges. -[2586.96 --> 2598.00] We ask that you will surround them and, where it's fitting, use us, Lord, to bring peace, -[2599.20 --> 2601.18] comfort, and healing. -[2602.26 --> 2608.12] And we ask, Lord, that you will give them the confidence they need to hold tight to you, -[2608.12 --> 2614.76] particularly those who have struggles every single day that may last for years. -[2614.76 --> 2622.26] It can be exhausting and be with them. -[2623.50 --> 2629.52] And, again, enable them to believe and hold tight. -[2629.52 --> 2638.16] We thank you that Tessa is home from the hospital and seems to be responding well to treatments. -[2638.16 --> 2642.90] Please grant her strength and endurance. -[2642.90 --> 2654.34] And we ask, Lord, that you will continue to strengthen Doug and Tanya as they wrestle and -[2654.34 --> 2656.24] endure stage four cancer. -[2656.24 --> 2664.60] Will you continue to encourage and strengthen my sister, Joan, as she is in her fourth week -[2664.60 --> 2667.34] of radiation for her cancer treatment? -[2667.88 --> 2675.86] In these three cases, Lord, may the spring weather bring some revitalization to them. -[2676.58 --> 2683.24] But may these three lean heavily in their confidence in you. -[2683.24 --> 2691.64] For all of those, Lord, who struggle with private and unknown addictions in our midst, give them courage. -[2692.10 --> 2694.02] Courage to talk to you. -[2695.12 --> 2703.82] And, in particular, courage if their struggles are totally private, that they may talk to somebody -[2703.82 --> 2705.52] and reach out and seek help. -[2705.52 --> 2716.50] Finally, Lord, we know that so many of us gathered here this morning have experienced the pain of loss -[2716.50 --> 2719.34] because of the death of someone we love. -[2720.18 --> 2730.66] And we know that this morning here there will be many of us who feel the pain, feel the grief acutely. -[2730.66 --> 2742.08] Will you please comfort them and encourage them with the promise and the confidence in the resurrection? -[2743.44 --> 2744.12] Amen. -[2744.12 --> 2744.22] Amen. -[2760.66 --> 2777.54] Before I read our text for this morning, I just want to share with you, maybe, perhaps, -[2777.68 --> 2785.52] the text that we're about to read is one of my favorite stories in the gospel accounts. -[2785.52 --> 2788.80] And there's a number of reasons why that is the case. -[2789.02 --> 2796.06] But, in particular, the line, even the stones would cry out. -[2797.24 --> 2801.70] And I remember, I must have been in grade three or five or something. -[2802.34 --> 2803.54] I was very young. -[2803.86 --> 2805.26] I was at a Christian school. -[2805.62 --> 2808.28] And in the Easter season, we did an assembly. -[2808.28 --> 2812.72] And somebody read one of the teachers or someone, I don't even remember who, -[2812.80 --> 2820.22] but somebody read a poem that was Palm Sunday from the perspective of the stone that would cry out. -[2820.78 --> 2825.86] And ever since then, that text has come alive to me. -[2825.96 --> 2829.28] This story has been experienced differently. -[2829.82 --> 2831.98] And I share that with you for a couple of reasons. -[2831.98 --> 2838.42] One, I hope you'll see that excitement and you'll catch some of that in our time together this morning. -[2838.52 --> 2845.52] But two, if you're a teacher, whether it's in school or in children's worship time or something like that, -[2845.80 --> 2847.82] I hope you hear that as an encouragement. -[2848.80 --> 2852.98] Because there was a season of my life where if you had looked at it, you would not have thought, -[2853.10 --> 2856.86] man, that guy's a Christian, let alone he's going to be a pastor later on. -[2856.86 --> 2864.04] But that moment, however old you are in grade three, it was nine, something like that, -[2864.26 --> 2866.24] that moment stuck with me forever. -[2867.10 --> 2868.36] So the work you do is really important. -[2869.02 --> 2872.80] And so I just want to thank you for doing that work and for being faithful in that. -[2873.50 --> 2880.52] And hopefully, somewhere, someone has a similar story because of what you have done in their life. -[2880.84 --> 2884.68] And so please be encouraged as we come into this text. -[2884.68 --> 2891.78] And then for all of us, hopefully, you can be excited and see what we are going to share. -[2892.24 --> 2895.90] Now, I'm going to read this story. -[2896.14 --> 2900.16] And I think on the screen behind me, we're going to pick it up at verse 40. -[2900.44 --> 2904.74] But I'm going to start at verse 37 just to give us context in there. -[2904.92 --> 2908.22] And so, Tara, when I hit verse 40, then we can go through. -[2908.22 --> 2915.96] So this is from Luke 19, starting at verse 37. -[2915.96 --> 2941.60] And some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, -[2941.60 --> 2962.12] And as he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it and said, -[2962.12 --> 2968.28] If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace, -[2968.70 --> 2970.64] but now it is hidden from your eyes. -[2971.24 --> 2975.48] The days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment against you -[2975.48 --> 2978.52] and encircle you and hem you in on every side. -[2978.80 --> 2982.88] They will dash you to the ground and you and the children within your walls. -[2983.24 --> 2986.08] They will not leave one stone on another -[2986.08 --> 2991.22] because you did not recognize the time of God's coming to you. -[2992.16 --> 2993.60] This is the word of the Lord. -[2997.78 --> 3003.24] So why don't you want us to dig into this juxtaposition in the text? -[3003.74 --> 3003.98] Right? -[3004.02 --> 3006.32] You've got stones that would cry out, -[3007.38 --> 3010.08] but then the people didn't realize, -[3010.88 --> 3015.52] Jerusalem doesn't realize who it is in front of them. -[3016.08 --> 3017.74] And so Jesus weeps. -[3018.66 --> 3021.06] You have a group of disciples who are singing his praises -[3021.06 --> 3024.72] and who are recognizing something about this man, -[3025.30 --> 3027.74] but what is it that they're longing for, -[3027.82 --> 3030.76] that they're clinging to, that they're hoping for? -[3031.48 --> 3036.62] And then you have a whole generation of people who just didn't get it. -[3038.24 --> 3041.98] Our big idea this morning is that even the stones would cry out, -[3041.98 --> 3045.60] but the people didn't recognize who was in front of them. -[3046.08 --> 3048.72] And then the application, -[3049.22 --> 3051.40] let's not make the same mistake. -[3053.40 --> 3054.80] Now this is a story, -[3055.04 --> 3057.04] we've already mentioned it this morning, -[3057.38 --> 3060.06] that's often called the triumphal entry. -[3060.48 --> 3060.80] Right? -[3060.84 --> 3062.66] Because of the procession of Jesus -[3062.66 --> 3065.46] and the crowds of people heralding his coming. -[3065.80 --> 3065.92] Right? -[3065.98 --> 3066.32] They say, -[3066.42 --> 3069.68] blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord. -[3069.68 --> 3072.14] which we know, -[3072.40 --> 3075.00] and Jackie used it as our call to worship this morning, -[3075.00 --> 3080.08] is a quote that comes from Psalm 118, verse 26. -[3081.36 --> 3084.32] Now Psalm 118 also says, -[3084.32 --> 3088.52] the stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. -[3089.58 --> 3092.06] Psalm 118 also says, -[3092.42 --> 3097.20] the Lord is God and he has made his light shine on us with bows in hand, -[3097.60 --> 3101.28] join the festal procession up to the horns of the altar. -[3101.28 --> 3104.26] And what you can hear in that, -[3104.32 --> 3104.90] I hope, -[3105.00 --> 3105.62] and see, -[3105.96 --> 3106.78] Lord willing, -[3106.92 --> 3111.32] very clearly that this is a kingship psalm. -[3111.54 --> 3113.90] It's a sort of inauguration hymn. -[3114.62 --> 3116.26] When the king comes to town, -[3116.42 --> 3118.02] this is what is played. -[3118.92 --> 3119.64] And in fact, -[3120.02 --> 3120.62] Luke, -[3120.74 --> 3123.42] when he quotes this psalm in our text, -[3123.42 --> 3126.02] in verse 38, -[3126.32 --> 3127.76] when he quotes this psalm, -[3127.84 --> 3130.96] he adds the word king in his quote -[3130.96 --> 3136.54] in order to make sure that the primarily Greek readers of his gospel, -[3136.82 --> 3140.68] who might not know Psalm 118 as an inauguration hymn, -[3140.78 --> 3142.26] as a kingship psalm, -[3142.48 --> 3144.02] that they don't miss that point. -[3144.74 --> 3147.52] That this is the king coming to his people. -[3147.60 --> 3149.30] This is the rightful king. -[3149.30 --> 3150.96] In fact, -[3151.12 --> 3153.58] when Matthew and Mark tell this story, -[3154.26 --> 3156.60] they remember the people shouting, -[3157.00 --> 3158.70] Hosanna to the son of David. -[3159.30 --> 3161.02] They remember the people shouting, -[3161.24 --> 3164.86] Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father, David. -[3165.92 --> 3168.02] If you are familiar with the Bible story, -[3168.16 --> 3171.06] David is the great king of Israel, -[3171.24 --> 3173.38] from whose line the Messiah king, -[3173.50 --> 3174.36] the last king, -[3174.66 --> 3176.62] the true and better king would come. -[3176.62 --> 3179.50] He was promised an everlasting kingdom. -[3181.40 --> 3181.92] And so, -[3182.26 --> 3183.22] to be sure, -[3183.52 --> 3187.46] for the people to be proclaiming this of Jesus -[3187.46 --> 3190.68] as he marches into Jerusalem, -[3191.20 --> 3194.50] don't miss how controversial this is. -[3195.60 --> 3198.50] This is actually insurrection language. -[3199.84 --> 3203.88] This is a people who are under the rule and reign of Rome, -[3203.88 --> 3204.58] saying, -[3204.58 --> 3205.70] not Caesar, -[3206.12 --> 3207.24] but our guy. -[3209.50 --> 3213.18] This is a people hoping that Jesus might gather armies -[3213.18 --> 3216.34] and that he might somehow topple Roman oppression. -[3217.88 --> 3220.34] And the Pharisees in this story, -[3220.72 --> 3221.90] give them a little bit of credit. -[3222.08 --> 3223.08] They knew what it meant. -[3224.82 --> 3225.28] Remember, -[3226.06 --> 3227.10] the Pharisees, -[3227.28 --> 3228.94] along with the Sadducees, -[3229.04 --> 3230.22] which is their sort of counterpart, -[3230.94 --> 3231.36] together, -[3231.36 --> 3233.26] they make up the Sanhedrin. -[3233.26 --> 3234.20] Now, -[3234.24 --> 3238.98] the Sanhedrin is sort of a tenuously cobbled together -[3238.98 --> 3240.86] religio-political alliance -[3241.52 --> 3243.88] of leaders within the Jewish people. -[3244.62 --> 3247.70] And they have a carefully crafted agreement -[3247.70 --> 3249.18] with Rome, -[3249.32 --> 3251.36] through her governors and proconsuls, -[3251.46 --> 3252.58] and through her puppet kings, -[3252.84 --> 3253.88] like Herod Agrippa. -[3253.88 --> 3255.48] Right? -[3255.54 --> 3257.66] And it's a carefully grafted, -[3257.86 --> 3258.84] tenuous agreement -[3258.84 --> 3263.00] that's really balanced on the tip of a gladius, -[3263.20 --> 3264.68] a Roman soldier's sword. -[3264.68 --> 3268.96] And this agreement allows them the opportunity -[3268.96 --> 3270.68] to keep worshiping in the way -[3270.68 --> 3272.68] that they had historically and previously, -[3272.68 --> 3274.32] to have their own temple mount, -[3274.40 --> 3276.02] and to not have temples -[3276.02 --> 3279.56] and temples to other gods -[3279.56 --> 3282.18] or to Caesar within the city of Jerusalem. -[3282.90 --> 3286.34] But the Pharisees hear what these people are saying, -[3286.78 --> 3288.28] and they hiss at Jesus, -[3288.28 --> 3289.06] Jesus, teacher, -[3289.42 --> 3290.42] shut them up! -[3291.46 --> 3292.86] You're going to get us killed! -[3294.12 --> 3294.42] Right? -[3294.46 --> 3296.56] This isn't just going to upset the status quo. -[3296.86 --> 3298.50] This is going to topple the piece, -[3298.84 --> 3301.54] this carefully crafted arrangement that we have. -[3303.60 --> 3305.08] But they're missing something. -[3305.46 --> 3305.72] Right? -[3306.30 --> 3308.16] They're missing something about Jesus, -[3308.40 --> 3310.88] missing something about the nature of His kingdom. -[3310.88 --> 3314.20] And this is the part that I want us to see for a moment. -[3314.86 --> 3316.42] To see it, we have to go back. -[3318.18 --> 3323.58] There's a story that's told in 1 Kings 1. -[3324.22 --> 3327.30] It's a story about the transition of power -[3327.30 --> 3330.68] from King David to one of his sons, Solomon. -[3331.96 --> 3335.88] David tells the priest and the prophet -[3335.88 --> 3340.22] to take Solomon outside the city of Jerusalem, -[3340.22 --> 3342.40] down to the Gihon Spring. -[3343.42 --> 3345.64] Now, the Gihon Spring is in the valley -[3345.64 --> 3347.90] that sits between the Mount of Olives -[3347.90 --> 3349.84] and the mount where the Jerusalem is on, -[3350.34 --> 3352.50] down below there, -[3352.62 --> 3354.84] outside the old city of David in Jerusalem. -[3355.90 --> 3358.94] And David says to the priest and to the prophet, -[3359.32 --> 3363.56] anoint my son and have him ride a donkey -[3363.56 --> 3366.30] to come back into the city. -[3367.10 --> 3368.62] Blow the horn and shout, -[3368.62 --> 3370.42] long live King Solomon. -[3371.44 --> 3373.00] And as the story goes, as you read it, -[3373.04 --> 3373.76] that's what happens. -[3374.18 --> 3376.06] Solomon rides in on a donkey -[3376.06 --> 3378.46] and the people shout his praises. -[3379.44 --> 3380.58] Now, this is important. -[3381.32 --> 3383.98] For those of you who have been around for a little while, -[3384.24 --> 3387.12] what is David known for as king? -[3388.50 --> 3390.98] What's the refrain that makes David so popular? -[3393.22 --> 3393.70] Sorry? -[3394.90 --> 3395.82] Heart after God. -[3395.82 --> 3396.98] A man after God's own heart. -[3397.06 --> 3397.46] Thank you. -[3397.96 --> 3399.38] I think I heard someone say 10,000. -[3399.48 --> 3400.72] We'll come back to that in just a second. -[3402.02 --> 3402.26] Right? -[3402.28 --> 3403.96] This is a man after God's own heart. -[3404.16 --> 3407.48] And yes, God promised him an everlasting kingdom. -[3408.02 --> 3408.14] Right? -[3408.18 --> 3410.64] But maybe you also remember the refrain, -[3411.10 --> 3413.42] Saul killed his thousands and David his... -[3413.42 --> 3413.64] Ken? -[3414.56 --> 3415.50] Tens of thousands. -[3415.64 --> 3416.12] That's right. -[3417.28 --> 3417.44] Right? -[3417.44 --> 3419.08] In 2 Samuel 12, -[3419.20 --> 3420.90] the prophet Nathan tells David, -[3421.26 --> 3423.44] the sword will never depart from you. -[3425.22 --> 3426.82] And so for all of the good things -[3426.82 --> 3427.80] that we know about David, -[3428.70 --> 3430.44] he was known for his sword. -[3431.76 --> 3431.96] Right? -[3432.00 --> 3432.42] That phrase, -[3432.52 --> 3433.46] those who live by the sword -[3433.46 --> 3434.36] will die by the sword, -[3434.40 --> 3435.90] that comes from the story of David. -[3437.12 --> 3438.08] Now, what about Solomon? -[3438.18 --> 3439.16] What do we know about Solomon? -[3440.16 --> 3440.58] Anyone? -[3441.94 --> 3442.38] Wives. -[3442.60 --> 3443.06] That's right. -[3443.44 --> 3445.42] We remember some pretty bad things about Solomon. -[3445.42 --> 3448.76] And he had over 700 wives, 300 concubines. -[3448.86 --> 3449.42] In that way, -[3449.50 --> 3450.84] he was exactly the same -[3450.84 --> 3453.30] as the king of every other nation around them. -[3453.32 --> 3455.00] And Israel was supposed to be different. -[3456.30 --> 3456.66] Right? -[3456.78 --> 3457.12] God said, -[3457.26 --> 3458.64] do not be like the other nations. -[3458.70 --> 3460.16] And that's why he didn't want them to have a king. -[3460.22 --> 3461.20] But then he gave in to them. -[3461.42 --> 3462.76] And then they ended up having kings -[3462.76 --> 3465.40] that were just like all the other kings. -[3466.44 --> 3467.70] Now, Solomon's also remembered -[3467.70 --> 3469.44] for worshiping the wives, -[3469.70 --> 3471.80] or worshiping the gods of his wives. -[3472.24 --> 3473.22] Probably his wives too. -[3473.22 --> 3475.90] One of the gods that we read -[3475.90 --> 3476.64] that he worshipped -[3476.64 --> 3477.76] was Ashtoreth, -[3477.88 --> 3478.90] which is a Phoenician -[3478.90 --> 3481.20] and Canaanite fertility goddess. -[3482.84 --> 3484.26] There are some scholars -[3484.26 --> 3486.04] who say that the Greek analog -[3486.04 --> 3487.56] that you might know is Aphrodite, -[3488.00 --> 3490.54] so goddess of promiscuity and the like. -[3491.96 --> 3494.64] We also know that Solomon worshipped Molech, -[3495.14 --> 3496.54] which is an Ammonite god -[3496.54 --> 3498.22] associated with child sacrifice. -[3498.22 --> 3503.14] But Solomon's also known -[3503.14 --> 3504.94] for his humility -[3504.94 --> 3506.80] and his wisdom. -[3508.02 --> 3508.42] Right? -[3508.48 --> 3509.72] The beginning of Solomon's story -[3509.72 --> 3511.66] is that the Lord gave him a chance -[3511.66 --> 3512.84] to ask for anything. -[3513.50 --> 3513.64] He said, -[3513.72 --> 3514.40] ask me anything -[3514.40 --> 3515.50] and I will give it to you. -[3515.78 --> 3517.14] Riches, power, whatever. -[3517.66 --> 3521.06] And Solomon asked for wisdom. -[3521.70 --> 3523.56] He asked for godly wisdom. -[3523.56 --> 3525.68] When the opportunity to serve -[3525.68 --> 3527.08] and to lead was in front of him, -[3527.36 --> 3527.82] he said, -[3527.94 --> 3529.16] I can't do this. -[3529.60 --> 3530.92] I need God's help. -[3532.08 --> 3533.12] So he humbled himself -[3533.12 --> 3533.66] and he said, -[3534.16 --> 3535.06] give me your wisdom. -[3537.42 --> 3539.02] Wisdom and humility -[3539.02 --> 3542.52] are a mark of Solomon's rule. -[3543.16 --> 3544.72] Now, in this story -[3544.72 --> 3546.08] from 1 Kings 1 -[3546.08 --> 3548.26] about Solomon entering the city -[3548.26 --> 3549.84] after he is anointed king, -[3549.84 --> 3551.86] the people walk before him -[3551.86 --> 3552.66] and around him -[3552.66 --> 3553.42] and behind him. -[3553.52 --> 3554.06] They're shouting. -[3554.22 --> 3555.24] They're blowing trumpets. -[3555.64 --> 3556.76] They're playing pipes, -[3556.98 --> 3557.34] we read. -[3557.56 --> 3558.08] And they say, -[3558.18 --> 3559.12] long live the king. -[3560.00 --> 3561.96] They're singing joyfully -[3561.96 --> 3563.20] and rejoicing -[3563.20 --> 3565.74] that their new king has come. -[3565.84 --> 3567.84] And then in 1 Kings 1 verse 40, -[3567.98 --> 3568.38] we read, -[3568.78 --> 3569.96] they're so loud -[3569.96 --> 3572.06] that the ground shook -[3572.06 --> 3573.12] with the sound. -[3574.86 --> 3576.92] The ground shook with the sound. -[3577.84 --> 3578.04] Now, -[3578.04 --> 3579.60] here's something cool, -[3579.72 --> 3579.88] okay? -[3580.22 --> 3581.50] The Greek translation -[3581.50 --> 3582.64] of the Old Testament, -[3583.18 --> 3584.52] which is called the Septuagint, -[3584.60 --> 3585.24] it's the Bible -[3585.24 --> 3587.08] that most of the Jews -[3587.08 --> 3587.94] of Jesus' day -[3587.94 --> 3589.36] would have been familiar with. -[3589.78 --> 3590.84] The Greek translation -[3590.84 --> 3591.84] of the Old Testament -[3591.84 --> 3594.18] translates 1 Kings 1 verse 40 -[3594.18 --> 3595.16] by saying, -[3595.54 --> 3597.08] the ground broke forth -[3597.08 --> 3598.22] with its voice. -[3602.02 --> 3603.88] Even the stones -[3603.88 --> 3605.54] will cry out. -[3605.54 --> 3609.76] Riding into the city -[3609.76 --> 3610.52] on a donkey -[3610.52 --> 3611.42] like Solomon -[3611.42 --> 3612.66] makes Jesus -[3612.66 --> 3613.82] and his kingdom -[3613.82 --> 3615.20] more about humility -[3615.20 --> 3616.30] and wisdom -[3616.30 --> 3617.50] than the sword. -[3618.54 --> 3619.68] He's a different kind -[3619.68 --> 3620.56] of king. -[3620.88 --> 3621.82] And Jesus is coming -[3621.82 --> 3622.30] as king, -[3622.40 --> 3622.90] to be sure, -[3623.00 --> 3623.96] but not as a king -[3623.96 --> 3625.32] interested in the things -[3625.32 --> 3625.86] of Rome. -[3626.72 --> 3628.64] This isn't a triumphal entry -[3628.64 --> 3629.98] of a warrior king. -[3629.98 --> 3631.14] This is a kingdom -[3631.14 --> 3631.90] that is marked -[3631.90 --> 3632.68] by humility -[3632.68 --> 3633.98] and wisdom. -[3634.96 --> 3636.16] One Bible scholar -[3636.16 --> 3637.28] named Brent Kinman -[3637.28 --> 3639.54] actually calls this story -[3639.54 --> 3641.10] not the triumphal entry, -[3641.56 --> 3641.98] but the -[3641.98 --> 3643.64] ah-triumphal entry. -[3644.34 --> 3644.78] Right? -[3644.84 --> 3646.08] Using the alpha privative -[3646.08 --> 3646.92] because it's an -[3646.92 --> 3648.14] atypical example -[3648.14 --> 3650.32] of what goes on here. -[3651.32 --> 3651.86] Right? -[3651.88 --> 3652.98] An ah-triumphal entry -[3653.62 --> 3654.92] because it's revealing -[3654.92 --> 3656.86] exactly the kind -[3656.86 --> 3657.38] of king -[3657.38 --> 3658.32] that Jesus -[3658.32 --> 3659.34] is. -[3660.66 --> 3661.40] And some people -[3661.40 --> 3661.96] saw it. -[3662.76 --> 3663.62] Maybe even some -[3663.62 --> 3664.36] understood it. -[3664.84 --> 3665.96] But many didn't. -[3666.74 --> 3667.76] Many didn't see it. -[3668.38 --> 3668.96] They didn't get -[3668.96 --> 3669.82] what was going on. -[3670.04 --> 3670.72] And some of them -[3670.72 --> 3671.82] just downright -[3671.82 --> 3673.12] rejected it. -[3674.46 --> 3675.68] The Pharisees, -[3675.72 --> 3676.68] who knew their Bibles -[3676.68 --> 3677.96] better than anyone else, -[3678.48 --> 3679.58] didn't see it. -[3680.34 --> 3681.50] They didn't see Jesus -[3681.50 --> 3682.38] for who he is. -[3683.70 --> 3684.46] And what about people -[3684.46 --> 3685.56] who don't read their Bibles? -[3686.42 --> 3687.38] How will they see it? -[3687.68 --> 3689.08] How will they hear of him? -[3689.40 --> 3691.10] How will people know -[3691.10 --> 3692.74] who this man is? -[3694.72 --> 3694.92] Right? -[3695.12 --> 3696.98] People look at Jesus -[3696.98 --> 3698.58] and they think they know. -[3699.70 --> 3700.66] But do they? -[3704.18 --> 3705.14] And that question -[3705.14 --> 3706.42] is worth asking today. -[3707.28 --> 3707.76] Right? -[3708.44 --> 3709.34] Because people continue -[3709.34 --> 3710.18] to look at Jesus -[3710.18 --> 3711.42] and think they know. -[3712.50 --> 3713.46] But do they? -[3714.48 --> 3715.48] We're living in a time -[3715.48 --> 3715.98] and place -[3715.98 --> 3716.94] that is very much -[3716.94 --> 3717.74] the same. -[3719.38 --> 3720.70] People look at Jesus -[3720.70 --> 3722.10] and they think they know. -[3722.26 --> 3723.70] Or people look at Jesus -[3723.70 --> 3724.84] and they see a stranger. -[3725.40 --> 3726.44] They've got no idea. -[3728.62 --> 3729.14] Quickly, -[3729.26 --> 3730.04] I want to paint -[3730.04 --> 3730.60] a picture -[3730.60 --> 3731.80] for you here. -[3733.42 --> 3735.38] There's a research -[3735.38 --> 3736.18] institution -[3736.18 --> 3737.86] in Hamilton, -[3738.60 --> 3739.10] Ontario. -[3739.30 --> 3739.68] I'm sorry, -[3739.80 --> 3740.44] it's from Ontario. -[3740.60 --> 3741.32] They're not all bad. -[3741.50 --> 3743.64] but named -[3743.64 --> 3744.28] Cardis. -[3745.36 --> 3746.14] They're a research -[3746.14 --> 3746.68] institution -[3746.68 --> 3747.80] and a think tank -[3747.80 --> 3748.80] run by -[3748.80 --> 3750.86] a Christian group -[3750.86 --> 3752.52] and they published -[3752.52 --> 3753.18] a study -[3753.18 --> 3754.16] recently -[3754.16 --> 3755.30] on religious -[3755.30 --> 3756.20] identity -[3756.20 --> 3757.18] in Canada. -[3757.18 --> 3757.30] Canada. -[3758.30 --> 3759.06] And I want to note -[3759.06 --> 3759.88] some of the findings -[3759.88 --> 3760.74] that they have there. -[3762.10 --> 3763.14] In 2018, -[3764.18 --> 3765.34] 24% -[3765.34 --> 3766.42] of Canadians -[3766.42 --> 3767.36] attended -[3767.36 --> 3768.86] religious services -[3768.86 --> 3770.18] once a month. -[3771.18 --> 3772.02] And that's not -[3772.02 --> 3772.68] counting weddings -[3772.68 --> 3773.42] and funerals. -[3774.46 --> 3775.38] But that is -[3775.38 --> 3776.48] religious services -[3776.48 --> 3777.26] so it's not just -[3777.26 --> 3777.70] Christian. -[3778.30 --> 3778.92] So hear that. -[3778.92 --> 3781.06] in 2022, -[3781.70 --> 3782.62] that number -[3782.62 --> 3784.34] is down to 15%. -[3784.34 --> 3786.38] From 24 -[3786.38 --> 3787.54] to 15. -[3788.62 --> 3789.50] In 2022, -[3789.88 --> 3790.80] of those who identify -[3790.80 --> 3791.76] as Christian, -[3792.48 --> 3792.76] now, -[3792.94 --> 3794.00] so focusing in -[3794.00 --> 3795.20] on our group, -[3795.56 --> 3795.94] 2022, -[3796.26 --> 3797.00] of those who identify -[3797.00 --> 3797.60] as Christian, -[3797.84 --> 3799.74] only 15% -[3799.74 --> 3801.56] attend weekly worship. -[3801.56 --> 3804.34] or to put it -[3804.34 --> 3804.74] another way, -[3804.82 --> 3805.74] of those who identify -[3805.74 --> 3806.34] as Christian, -[3806.76 --> 3808.32] only 18% -[3808.32 --> 3809.78] read their Bibles -[3809.78 --> 3811.46] at least once a month. -[3814.04 --> 3814.88] Less than -[3814.88 --> 3816.30] one in five people -[3816.30 --> 3817.04] in Canada -[3817.04 --> 3818.48] who say they are Christian -[3818.48 --> 3819.70] read their Bibles -[3819.70 --> 3820.56] and go to church -[3820.56 --> 3821.10] regularly. -[3823.30 --> 3824.62] People look at Jesus -[3824.62 --> 3825.44] and they think -[3825.44 --> 3825.92] they know. -[3827.28 --> 3828.38] But how can they? -[3830.80 --> 3831.00] Right? -[3831.00 --> 3832.08] Even the Christians -[3832.08 --> 3833.98] barely seem to know. -[3835.12 --> 3836.02] Even the Christians -[3836.02 --> 3838.50] barely seem to open -[3838.50 --> 3839.70] our own book -[3839.70 --> 3840.44] and attend -[3840.44 --> 3841.68] our own worship -[3841.68 --> 3842.84] and know -[3842.84 --> 3843.88] who this -[3843.88 --> 3845.12] Jesus is. -[3847.96 --> 3849.02] And yet, -[3849.42 --> 3851.42] and yet, -[3851.78 --> 3852.08] Jesus -[3852.08 --> 3853.54] will be -[3853.54 --> 3854.70] worshipped. -[3855.96 --> 3856.92] Jesus will be -[3856.92 --> 3857.54] acknowledged. -[3857.66 --> 3858.56] Look back at the story. -[3858.98 --> 3859.64] The Pharisees -[3859.64 --> 3860.16] complain -[3860.16 --> 3861.42] and tell Jesus -[3861.42 --> 3862.06] to quiet -[3862.06 --> 3862.86] his disciples -[3862.86 --> 3864.12] and he responds -[3864.12 --> 3864.58] with the most -[3864.58 --> 3865.40] beautiful phrase -[3865.40 --> 3866.10] and this is the one -[3866.10 --> 3866.64] that has stuck -[3866.64 --> 3867.28] with me forever. -[3867.62 --> 3868.18] I tell you, -[3868.30 --> 3869.34] if they keep quiet, -[3869.60 --> 3870.48] the stones -[3870.48 --> 3871.68] will cry out. -[3872.68 --> 3873.30] The ground -[3873.30 --> 3874.58] will burst forth -[3874.58 --> 3875.52] with its voice. -[3876.08 --> 3876.38] Jesus -[3876.38 --> 3877.44] will be praised. -[3877.58 --> 3878.28] All creation -[3878.28 --> 3879.20] proclaims your -[3879.20 --> 3879.76] handiwork. -[3879.88 --> 3880.68] Day after day, -[3881.02 --> 3881.76] night after night, -[3881.82 --> 3882.82] it pours forth -[3882.82 --> 3883.46] speech -[3883.46 --> 3884.32] and reveals -[3884.32 --> 3885.72] its creator. -[3886.36 --> 3887.10] If the people -[3887.10 --> 3887.62] don't, -[3888.22 --> 3888.76] the rocks -[3888.76 --> 3889.10] will. -[3892.78 --> 3893.44] But are you -[3893.44 --> 3893.76] going to let -[3893.76 --> 3894.34] rocks steal -[3894.34 --> 3895.16] your purpose? -[3896.86 --> 3897.20] Are you going -[3897.20 --> 3898.08] to give to a rock -[3898.08 --> 3898.62] what you were -[3898.62 --> 3899.50] created to do? -[3900.00 --> 3901.10] You were meant -[3901.10 --> 3901.80] to sing -[3901.80 --> 3902.46] his praises. -[3902.62 --> 3903.36] You were made -[3903.36 --> 3904.46] to worship God. -[3904.56 --> 3905.38] You were created -[3905.38 --> 3906.34] to pour forth -[3906.34 --> 3907.16] praise -[3907.16 --> 3908.52] of this Jesus. -[3908.52 --> 3913.36] Let me say it -[3913.36 --> 3913.66] again. -[3914.66 --> 3915.32] People look -[3915.32 --> 3915.80] at Jesus -[3915.80 --> 3916.86] and they think -[3916.86 --> 3917.46] they know. -[3918.86 --> 3919.84] How many of you -[3919.84 --> 3921.18] have kind of -[3921.18 --> 3922.06] felt meh -[3922.06 --> 3923.30] when it comes -[3923.30 --> 3923.74] to Jesus? -[3925.76 --> 3926.98] How many of you -[3926.98 --> 3927.76] know people -[3927.76 --> 3928.68] or perhaps you -[3928.68 --> 3929.90] are here today -[3929.90 --> 3931.22] who haven't -[3931.22 --> 3931.88] really ever -[3931.88 --> 3932.52] given Jesus -[3932.52 --> 3933.26] a second thought -[3933.26 --> 3934.20] before this moment -[3934.20 --> 3934.64] right now -[3934.64 --> 3935.48] when I'm asking you? -[3936.90 --> 3937.50] Or how many -[3937.50 --> 3938.48] people do you know -[3938.48 --> 3938.84] and again -[3938.84 --> 3939.38] perhaps you're -[3939.38 --> 3940.10] sitting here today -[3940.10 --> 3941.38] who know -[3941.38 --> 3942.70] about Jesus -[3942.70 --> 3943.80] but who don't -[3943.80 --> 3944.70] know Jesus? -[3944.98 --> 3945.32] You know the -[3945.32 --> 3945.94] distinction I'm -[3945.94 --> 3946.42] making there? -[3947.48 --> 3947.72] Right? -[3947.76 --> 3948.22] When you've got -[3948.22 --> 3948.78] an awareness -[3948.78 --> 3949.58] a head knowledge -[3949.58 --> 3950.10] of something -[3950.10 --> 3950.54] but you don't -[3950.54 --> 3952.28] hold it -[3952.28 --> 3953.56] you don't feel it -[3953.56 --> 3954.06] it doesn't mean -[3954.06 --> 3954.46] anything -[3954.46 --> 3955.68] it's just an idea -[3955.68 --> 3956.32] that you carry -[3956.32 --> 3956.92] like you would -[3956.92 --> 3957.66] that two plus two -[3957.66 --> 3958.34] equals four -[3958.34 --> 3961.48] takes a special -[3961.48 --> 3962.62] person to get joy -[3962.62 --> 3963.54] out of two plus two -[3963.54 --> 3964.20] equals four -[3964.20 --> 3966.14] but dig deep -[3966.14 --> 3967.72] into the complications -[3967.72 --> 3968.50] and the beauty -[3968.50 --> 3969.20] and the majesty -[3969.20 --> 3969.74] of math -[3969.74 --> 3970.08] and all of a sudden -[3970.08 --> 3970.92] you start to find joy -[3970.92 --> 3972.38] same thing with Jesus -[3972.38 --> 3973.28] you can kind of -[3973.28 --> 3973.60] know him -[3973.60 --> 3973.96] and be like -[3973.96 --> 3974.38] yeah alright -[3974.38 --> 3975.62] but dig deep -[3975.62 --> 3976.52] go down -[3976.52 --> 3977.64] go further in -[3977.64 --> 3978.44] and see -[3978.44 --> 3979.38] what it is -[3979.38 --> 3979.92] that you were -[3979.92 --> 3981.84] created for -[3981.84 --> 3984.60] Jesus longs -[3984.60 --> 3985.74] to be known -[3985.74 --> 3987.18] and the fact -[3987.18 --> 3988.20] that so many people -[3988.20 --> 3989.42] think they know him -[3989.42 --> 3990.72] but don't actually -[3990.72 --> 3991.42] know him -[3991.42 --> 3992.82] makes him -[3992.82 --> 3993.74] weep -[3993.74 --> 3996.70] as he approached -[3996.70 --> 3997.40] Jerusalem -[3997.40 --> 3999.34] he saw the city -[3999.34 --> 4000.98] and he wept -[4000.98 --> 4002.52] over it -[4002.52 --> 4005.30] looking at the city -[4005.30 --> 4005.90] and through -[4005.90 --> 4007.22] his tears -[4007.22 --> 4008.20] Jesus says -[4008.20 --> 4009.94] if you -[4009.94 --> 4011.68] even you -[4011.68 --> 4012.64] had only -[4012.64 --> 4013.24] known -[4013.24 --> 4015.18] that on this day -[4015.18 --> 4015.88] what it is -[4015.88 --> 4016.62] that would bring you -[4016.62 --> 4017.06] peace -[4017.06 --> 4018.54] who would bring you -[4018.54 --> 4019.04] peace -[4019.04 --> 4020.88] but now it's -[4020.88 --> 4021.70] hidden from your eyes -[4021.70 --> 4024.02] so the days -[4024.02 --> 4024.66] will come -[4024.66 --> 4026.68] will come upon you -[4026.68 --> 4027.38] when your enemies -[4027.38 --> 4028.60] will build an embankment -[4028.60 --> 4029.24] against you -[4029.24 --> 4030.30] and encircle you -[4030.30 --> 4031.08] and hem you in -[4031.08 --> 4031.88] on every side -[4031.88 --> 4033.02] and they will dash you -[4033.02 --> 4033.68] to the ground -[4033.68 --> 4035.04] and you and the children -[4035.04 --> 4035.76] within your walls -[4035.76 --> 4036.76] and they will not leave -[4036.76 --> 4038.10] one stone on another -[4038.10 --> 4039.10] because you did not -[4039.10 --> 4040.34] recognize the time -[4040.34 --> 4041.62] of God's coming -[4041.62 --> 4042.68] to you -[4042.68 --> 4045.50] if you had only known -[4045.50 --> 4047.14] if you'd only known -[4047.14 --> 4048.22] what would bring you peace -[4048.22 --> 4048.94] and then Jesus -[4048.94 --> 4050.14] goes on to describe -[4050.14 --> 4051.30] an event -[4051.30 --> 4052.42] that is likely -[4052.42 --> 4053.48] fulfilled in -[4053.48 --> 4054.52] AD 70 -[4054.52 --> 4056.14] by the destruction -[4056.14 --> 4056.96] of Jerusalem -[4056.96 --> 4057.74] at the hands -[4057.74 --> 4058.34] of the Romans -[4058.34 --> 4060.74] now this destruction -[4060.74 --> 4061.46] of Jerusalem -[4061.46 --> 4063.18] is described -[4063.18 --> 4065.52] by historians -[4065.52 --> 4066.66] Josephus -[4066.66 --> 4067.44] and Tacitus -[4067.44 --> 4068.34] and Suetonius -[4068.34 --> 4069.60] the last two -[4069.60 --> 4070.52] Roman historians -[4070.52 --> 4071.20] the first one -[4071.20 --> 4071.98] a Jewish historian -[4071.98 --> 4073.62] who worked for Rome -[4073.62 --> 4074.58] they describe -[4074.58 --> 4075.46] the destruction -[4075.46 --> 4076.20] of Jerusalem -[4076.20 --> 4077.96] as raising -[4077.96 --> 4078.94] a mountaintop -[4078.94 --> 4079.44] flat -[4079.44 --> 4081.46] Josephus -[4081.46 --> 4082.04] says that their -[4082.04 --> 4082.50] destruction -[4082.50 --> 4083.66] was so thorough -[4083.66 --> 4084.78] that the people -[4084.78 --> 4085.86] who came to the city -[4085.86 --> 4086.84] in the generations -[4086.84 --> 4087.40] afterwards -[4087.40 --> 4088.56] were unable to tell -[4088.56 --> 4088.94] that anyone -[4088.94 --> 4089.68] had lived there -[4089.68 --> 4091.68] in fact -[4091.68 --> 4092.42] as Suetonius -[4092.42 --> 4093.02] describes it -[4093.02 --> 4093.56] the only thing -[4093.56 --> 4094.22] left was a -[4094.22 --> 4095.08] garrison tower -[4095.08 --> 4096.62] and it was probably -[4096.62 --> 4097.60] left as a marker -[4097.60 --> 4098.82] of the absolute -[4098.82 --> 4099.42] destruction -[4099.42 --> 4101.44] they will not -[4101.44 --> 4102.60] leave one stone -[4102.60 --> 4103.36] on another -[4103.36 --> 4104.08] said Jesus -[4104.08 --> 4104.76] because you -[4104.76 --> 4105.72] did not recognize -[4105.72 --> 4106.42] the time -[4106.42 --> 4107.44] of God's coming -[4107.44 --> 4107.90] to you -[4107.90 --> 4109.38] that's what -[4109.38 --> 4109.84] happened -[4109.84 --> 4116.52] in 2018 -[4116.52 --> 4118.50] I went -[4118.50 --> 4119.38] to -[4119.38 --> 4120.40] Egypt -[4120.40 --> 4121.12] and Israel -[4121.12 --> 4122.20] and Jordan -[4122.20 --> 4123.94] and on one day -[4123.94 --> 4124.66] I think I've told -[4124.66 --> 4125.12] some of you -[4125.12 --> 4126.08] this story before -[4126.08 --> 4127.32] one day -[4127.32 --> 4127.82] we were -[4127.82 --> 4129.30] standing on top -[4129.30 --> 4129.82] of the Mount -[4129.82 --> 4130.36] of Olives -[4130.36 --> 4132.12] which is now -[4132.12 --> 4133.26] a cemetery -[4133.26 --> 4134.90] a Muslim cemetery -[4134.90 --> 4135.62] there's a small -[4135.62 --> 4136.36] Jewish quarter -[4136.36 --> 4137.72] for graves -[4137.72 --> 4138.62] there -[4138.62 --> 4139.86] we got special -[4139.86 --> 4140.24] permission -[4140.24 --> 4141.24] from the gardener -[4141.24 --> 4142.56] to let us come in -[4142.56 --> 4143.54] and stand on top -[4143.54 --> 4144.16] of the mount -[4144.16 --> 4144.94] and you can see -[4144.94 --> 4145.50] from the Mount -[4145.50 --> 4145.90] of Olives -[4145.90 --> 4147.34] over the Temple -[4147.34 --> 4147.68] Mount -[4147.68 --> 4148.72] and to Jerusalem -[4148.72 --> 4150.50] and we did this -[4150.50 --> 4151.12] teaching -[4151.12 --> 4151.92] this story -[4151.92 --> 4153.52] standing on the top -[4153.52 --> 4154.24] of Mount of Olives -[4154.24 --> 4155.04] and then we marched -[4155.04 --> 4156.16] down the road -[4156.16 --> 4157.94] following the path -[4157.94 --> 4158.70] that likely -[4158.70 --> 4159.56] Jesus would have -[4159.56 --> 4159.92] followed -[4159.92 --> 4161.52] into the valley -[4161.52 --> 4162.42] past the Garden -[4162.42 --> 4163.14] of Gethsemane -[4163.14 --> 4163.96] and then up -[4163.96 --> 4165.74] into Jerusalem -[4165.74 --> 4166.62] walking this -[4166.62 --> 4168.12] very journey -[4168.12 --> 4169.22] about halfway -[4169.22 --> 4169.62] down -[4169.62 --> 4171.18] we stopped -[4171.18 --> 4172.32] under a tree -[4172.32 --> 4173.78] and we read -[4173.78 --> 4174.40] this story -[4174.40 --> 4176.86] and I -[4176.86 --> 4178.12] started -[4178.12 --> 4179.62] bawling -[4179.62 --> 4181.68] weeping -[4181.68 --> 4183.34] for the moment -[4183.34 --> 4184.78] of standing there -[4184.78 --> 4185.50] looking out -[4185.50 --> 4186.38] over the city -[4186.38 --> 4187.48] and mapping -[4187.48 --> 4188.28] over top -[4188.28 --> 4189.14] of the Temple -[4189.14 --> 4189.52] Mount -[4189.52 --> 4190.44] these ancient -[4190.44 --> 4191.02] people who -[4191.02 --> 4192.10] Jesus cried for -[4192.10 --> 4192.78] with the modern -[4192.78 --> 4193.94] people who don't -[4193.94 --> 4194.42] know him -[4194.42 --> 4195.06] and with all the -[4195.06 --> 4196.02] people in my life -[4196.02 --> 4197.08] who don't know him -[4197.08 --> 4197.62] all the people -[4197.62 --> 4198.66] that I haven't yet -[4198.66 --> 4199.36] met who don't -[4199.36 --> 4199.74] know him -[4199.74 --> 4200.40] and it just -[4200.40 --> 4201.94] weighed on me -[4201.94 --> 4202.70] and I wept -[4202.70 --> 4203.96] I joined Jesus -[4203.96 --> 4204.96] in weeping -[4204.96 --> 4205.78] for those people -[4205.78 --> 4206.34] who think -[4206.34 --> 4207.22] they know him -[4207.22 --> 4210.32] but are missing -[4210.32 --> 4210.70] what's right -[4210.70 --> 4211.28] in front of them -[4211.28 --> 4215.56] how will they know -[4215.56 --> 4217.74] how will I -[4217.74 --> 4218.58] make him known -[4218.58 --> 4222.20] moved by -[4222.20 --> 4222.98] compassion -[4222.98 --> 4223.72] for -[4223.72 --> 4225.10] helping people -[4225.10 --> 4225.66] to see -[4225.66 --> 4226.16] or -[4226.16 --> 4230.44] is there a -[4230.44 --> 4230.78] sense of -[4230.78 --> 4231.44] superiority -[4231.44 --> 4233.12] in having it -[4233.12 --> 4233.74] figured out -[4233.74 --> 4234.90] knowing all -[4234.90 --> 4235.56] the answers -[4235.56 --> 4237.20] making sure -[4237.20 --> 4237.66] other people -[4237.66 --> 4238.16] know that I -[4238.16 --> 4238.48] know all -[4238.48 --> 4238.98] the answers -[4238.98 --> 4240.92] what is it -[4240.92 --> 4241.52] that moves -[4241.52 --> 4242.08] us -[4242.08 --> 4245.64] in our -[4245.64 --> 4246.10] time and -[4246.10 --> 4246.48] place -[4246.48 --> 4246.98] in our -[4246.98 --> 4247.42] culture -[4247.42 --> 4249.16] there is a -[4249.16 --> 4250.08] story that -[4250.08 --> 4250.86] was told -[4250.86 --> 4251.28] that was -[4251.28 --> 4251.86] started being -[4251.86 --> 4252.24] told -[4252.24 --> 4253.60] hundreds of -[4253.60 --> 4254.18] years ago -[4254.18 --> 4255.00] and has -[4255.00 --> 4255.86] continued to -[4255.86 --> 4256.42] be told -[4256.42 --> 4258.14] that God -[4258.14 --> 4258.80] is not -[4258.80 --> 4259.28] real -[4259.28 --> 4259.96] that God -[4259.96 --> 4260.66] is dead -[4260.66 --> 4261.10] and we have -[4261.10 --> 4261.62] killed him -[4261.62 --> 4262.92] but they've -[4262.92 --> 4263.66] been connecting -[4263.66 --> 4264.42] it in what's -[4264.42 --> 4265.04] now come to -[4265.04 --> 4265.58] be known as -[4265.58 --> 4266.18] the secular -[4266.18 --> 4266.64] gospel -[4266.64 --> 4267.20] the secular -[4267.20 --> 4267.80] myth that -[4267.80 --> 4268.06] says -[4268.06 --> 4270.04] don't worry -[4270.04 --> 4270.70] don't have -[4270.70 --> 4271.22] anxiety -[4271.22 --> 4272.00] don't carry -[4272.00 --> 4272.60] guilt or -[4272.60 --> 4272.92] shame -[4272.92 --> 4273.64] because God's -[4273.64 --> 4274.08] not real -[4274.08 --> 4274.62] and so go -[4274.62 --> 4275.08] just do what -[4275.08 --> 4275.40] you want to -[4275.40 --> 4275.60] do -[4275.60 --> 4277.42] that's the -[4277.42 --> 4278.06] message that -[4278.06 --> 4278.72] has become so -[4278.72 --> 4279.66] popular in -[4279.66 --> 4280.22] Europe and -[4280.22 --> 4280.76] in Canada -[4280.76 --> 4281.56] and around -[4281.56 --> 4281.98] the world -[4281.98 --> 4283.92] God's not -[4283.92 --> 4285.18] real so just -[4285.18 --> 4285.60] go and have -[4285.60 --> 4285.88] fun -[4285.88 --> 4289.14] but that -[4289.14 --> 4290.92] message in -[4290.92 --> 4291.48] the last -[4291.48 --> 4292.60] five to ten -[4292.60 --> 4293.20] years -[4293.20 --> 4294.32] especially -[4294.32 --> 4294.34] especially -[4294.34 --> 4294.92] among young -[4294.92 --> 4295.34] people -[4295.34 --> 4296.54] has proved -[4296.54 --> 4296.90] to be -[4296.90 --> 4297.28] empty -[4297.28 --> 4298.50] and vapid -[4298.50 --> 4299.64] it's proved -[4299.64 --> 4300.10] to be -[4300.10 --> 4300.70] anemic -[4300.70 --> 4301.58] and devoid -[4301.58 --> 4302.08] of any -[4302.08 --> 4303.22] real meaning -[4303.22 --> 4304.52] and it's -[4304.52 --> 4305.40] leaving people -[4305.40 --> 4305.98] in this -[4305.98 --> 4306.52] time and -[4306.52 --> 4307.02] place where -[4307.02 --> 4308.18] anxiety is -[4308.18 --> 4308.78] spiking -[4308.78 --> 4312.12] and here -[4312.12 --> 4312.68] we are -[4312.68 --> 4313.90] a church -[4313.90 --> 4314.46] of people -[4314.46 --> 4315.56] who see -[4315.56 --> 4316.14] Jesus -[4316.14 --> 4317.02] Lord willing -[4317.02 --> 4317.50] as he -[4317.50 --> 4318.18] really is -[4318.18 --> 4319.70] with a -[4319.70 --> 4320.40] message for -[4320.40 --> 4320.92] those who -[4320.92 --> 4321.50] do not -[4321.50 --> 4324.64] now -[4324.64 --> 4325.38] I quoted -[4325.38 --> 4326.08] some statistics -[4326.08 --> 4326.56] earlier -[4326.56 --> 4327.72] I want to -[4327.72 --> 4328.18] return to -[4328.18 --> 4329.12] that and -[4329.12 --> 4329.52] tell the -[4329.52 --> 4329.94] continued -[4329.94 --> 4330.72] story because -[4330.72 --> 4331.26] it's actually -[4331.26 --> 4332.34] kind of -[4332.34 --> 4332.82] encouraging -[4332.82 --> 4334.86] right in -[4334.86 --> 4335.28] this same -[4335.28 --> 4335.88] study that -[4335.88 --> 4336.74] Cardus did -[4336.74 --> 4337.68] they noticed -[4337.68 --> 4339.02] that there's -[4339.02 --> 4339.40] been an -[4339.40 --> 4340.56] increase in -[4340.56 --> 4341.46] men under -[4341.46 --> 4342.02] the age of -[4342.02 --> 4343.52] 35 attending -[4343.52 --> 4344.42] religious services -[4344.42 --> 4345.04] at least once -[4345.04 --> 4345.40] a month -[4345.40 --> 4348.18] right that -[4348.18 --> 4349.72] up to -[4349.72 --> 4351.14] 22% -[4351.14 --> 4352.96] in April -[4352.96 --> 4353.92] of 2022 -[4353.92 --> 4354.86] which is up -[4354.86 --> 4356.04] from 14% -[4356.04 --> 4357.42] six years -[4357.42 --> 4357.96] before that -[4357.96 --> 4359.86] now this -[4359.86 --> 4360.66] trend they -[4360.66 --> 4361.14] note in the -[4361.14 --> 4361.64] study is -[4361.64 --> 4362.86] representative of -[4362.86 --> 4363.68] something that -[4363.68 --> 4364.98] permeates the -[4364.98 --> 4365.50] report -[4365.50 --> 4366.48] right younger -[4366.48 --> 4367.58] Canadians are -[4367.58 --> 4368.56] more likely to -[4368.56 --> 4369.14] be attending -[4369.14 --> 4370.24] religious services -[4370.24 --> 4371.10] at least once -[4371.10 --> 4371.50] a month -[4371.50 --> 4373.12] right 20% -[4373.12 --> 4373.72] of younger -[4373.72 --> 4374.18] Canadians -[4374.18 --> 4374.86] compared to -[4374.86 --> 4375.62] 13% -[4375.62 --> 4376.32] of people -[4376.32 --> 4377.10] over 35 -[4377.10 --> 4379.62] in fact -[4379.62 --> 4380.92] it's younger -[4380.92 --> 4381.44] Canadians -[4381.44 --> 4382.32] under 35 -[4382.32 --> 4383.42] that is the -[4383.42 --> 4383.90] only -[4383.90 --> 4386.36] group to -[4386.36 --> 4387.06] see an -[4387.06 --> 4387.84] increase -[4387.84 --> 4389.34] in commitment -[4389.34 --> 4390.12] and religious -[4390.12 --> 4390.64] involvement -[4390.64 --> 4393.12] younger Canadians -[4393.12 --> 4394.00] age 35 -[4394.00 --> 4395.00] and younger -[4395.00 --> 4395.62] who identify -[4395.62 --> 4396.36] as Christian -[4396.36 --> 4397.18] are twice -[4397.18 --> 4398.08] as likely -[4398.08 --> 4399.38] to attend -[4399.38 --> 4400.46] religious services -[4400.46 --> 4401.06] more than -[4401.06 --> 4401.66] any other -[4401.66 --> 4401.98] group -[4401.98 --> 4402.80] a whole -[4402.80 --> 4403.36] one-third -[4403.36 --> 4403.82] of that -[4403.82 --> 4404.40] population -[4404.40 --> 4405.52] is likely -[4405.52 --> 4405.88] to do -[4405.88 --> 4406.12] that -[4406.12 --> 4407.18] you know -[4407.18 --> 4407.38] what the -[4407.38 --> 4408.00] second largest -[4408.00 --> 4408.70] group is -[4408.70 --> 4410.54] immigrants -[4410.54 --> 4411.50] who identify -[4411.50 --> 4412.06] as Canadian -[4412.06 --> 4416.60] this week -[4416.60 --> 4417.24] I was listening -[4417.24 --> 4418.48] to an -[4418.48 --> 4418.94] incredible -[4418.94 --> 4420.84] discussion -[4420.84 --> 4421.44] about a -[4421.44 --> 4422.06] report that -[4422.06 --> 4422.52] was just -[4422.52 --> 4423.06] released -[4423.06 --> 4424.12] in the -[4424.12 --> 4424.54] UK -[4424.54 --> 4426.42] tracking the -[4426.42 --> 4426.62] same -[4426.62 --> 4427.66] statistics -[4427.66 --> 4429.04] from -[4429.04 --> 4429.68] from 2018 -[4429.68 --> 4430.66] to 2024 -[4430.66 --> 4431.54] in Britain -[4431.54 --> 4432.44] the Bible -[4432.44 --> 4433.06] Society -[4433.06 --> 4433.86] dug into -[4433.86 --> 4434.28] these -[4434.28 --> 4435.32] things -[4435.32 --> 4435.60] and they -[4435.60 --> 4436.02] published -[4436.02 --> 4436.76] just published -[4436.76 --> 4437.28] a report -[4437.28 --> 4437.64] and that -[4437.64 --> 4438.28] report is -[4438.28 --> 4438.64] called -[4438.64 --> 4439.32] the quiet -[4439.32 --> 4440.06] revival -[4440.06 --> 4440.12] revival -[4440.12 --> 4441.90] and Glenn -[4441.90 --> 4442.68] Scrivener -[4442.68 --> 4443.24] has a -[4443.24 --> 4443.70] discussion -[4443.70 --> 4444.66] on the -[4444.66 --> 4444.98] quiet -[4444.98 --> 4445.60] revival -[4445.60 --> 4446.48] where he -[4446.48 --> 4446.86] notes -[4446.86 --> 4447.24] that from -[4447.24 --> 4447.74] 2018 -[4447.74 --> 4448.60] to 2024 -[4448.60 --> 4449.42] in the -[4449.42 --> 4449.72] UK -[4449.72 --> 4451.76] regular -[4451.76 --> 4452.36] church -[4452.36 --> 4452.88] attenders -[4452.88 --> 4453.12] that's -[4453.12 --> 4453.52] monthly -[4453.52 --> 4453.88] church -[4453.88 --> 4454.32] attenders -[4454.32 --> 4454.72] has gone -[4454.72 --> 4454.94] from -[4454.94 --> 4455.72] 8% -[4455.72 --> 4456.90] to 12% -[4456.90 --> 4459.10] among -[4459.10 --> 4459.96] 18 to -[4459.96 --> 4460.76] 24 year -[4460.76 --> 4461.02] olds -[4461.02 --> 4461.30] though -[4461.30 --> 4461.78] it's gone -[4461.78 --> 4462.00] from -[4462.00 --> 4462.86] 4% -[4462.86 --> 4463.36] to -[4463.36 --> 4464.60] 16% -[4464.60 --> 4466.86] and it -[4466.86 --> 4467.26] works out -[4467.26 --> 4467.54] in the -[4467.54 --> 4467.76] UK -[4467.76 --> 4468.08] that a -[4468.08 --> 4468.24] whole -[4468.24 --> 4468.80] one-third -[4468.80 --> 4469.28] of adult -[4469.28 --> 4469.54] church -[4469.54 --> 4469.90] goers -[4469.90 --> 4470.44] are now -[4470.44 --> 4471.02] 18 to -[4471.02 --> 4471.52] 30 years -[4471.52 --> 4471.80] old -[4471.80 --> 4472.40] 18 to -[4472.40 --> 4472.98] 34 years -[4472.98 --> 4473.20] old -[4473.20 --> 4474.18] that's up -[4474.18 --> 4475.18] from 14% -[4475.18 --> 4475.88] that's a -[4475.88 --> 4476.54] parallel number -[4476.54 --> 4477.04] to what is -[4477.04 --> 4477.54] experienced -[4477.54 --> 4477.90] here in -[4477.90 --> 4478.18] Canada -[4478.18 --> 4480.88] and again -[4480.88 --> 4481.72] among -[4481.72 --> 4482.90] the under -[4482.90 --> 4483.48] 55 -[4483.48 --> 4484.10] church -[4484.10 --> 4484.66] goers -[4484.66 --> 4485.64] 32% -[4485.64 --> 4486.14] of them -[4486.14 --> 4486.62] in Britain -[4486.62 --> 4487.52] are immigrants -[4487.52 --> 4487.98] which is -[4487.98 --> 4488.30] another -[4488.30 --> 4488.70] parallel -[4488.70 --> 4489.06] to what -[4489.06 --> 4489.16] we're -[4489.16 --> 4489.48] seeing -[4489.48 --> 4490.24] here in -[4490.24 --> 4490.60] Canada -[4490.60 --> 4493.44] and when -[4493.44 --> 4494.92] Glenn -[4494.92 --> 4495.48] Scrivener -[4495.48 --> 4495.98] digs into -[4495.98 --> 4496.58] these numbers -[4496.58 --> 4497.66] there's one -[4497.66 --> 4498.06] thing that I -[4498.06 --> 4498.30] want to -[4498.30 --> 4499.40] share with -[4499.40 --> 4500.02] you and -[4500.02 --> 4500.54] note and I -[4500.54 --> 4500.90] encourage you -[4500.90 --> 4501.36] to go check -[4501.36 --> 4501.62] out the -[4501.62 --> 4502.04] video I -[4502.04 --> 4502.58] can share -[4502.58 --> 4502.84] with you -[4502.84 --> 4503.16] the link -[4503.16 --> 4503.58] afterwards -[4503.58 --> 4503.88] you can -[4503.88 --> 4504.66] watch it -[4504.66 --> 4507.22] but in -[4507.22 --> 4507.82] relation to -[4507.82 --> 4508.46] our idea -[4508.46 --> 4509.58] of people -[4509.58 --> 4510.18] think they -[4510.18 --> 4510.58] know -[4510.58 --> 4513.54] but he -[4513.54 --> 4514.02] talks about -[4514.02 --> 4514.78] this shift -[4514.78 --> 4515.66] that's taking -[4515.66 --> 4516.48] place from -[4516.48 --> 4517.46] nominalism -[4517.46 --> 4519.36] to practicing -[4519.36 --> 4520.18] to a deep -[4520.18 --> 4521.00] rootedness -[4521.00 --> 4521.70] from being -[4521.70 --> 4522.36] Christian only -[4522.36 --> 4522.92] in name -[4522.92 --> 4523.68] to actually -[4523.68 --> 4524.62] living it -[4524.62 --> 4525.52] and sharing -[4525.52 --> 4525.78] it -[4525.78 --> 4526.36] and he -[4526.36 --> 4526.76] says that -[4526.76 --> 4527.00] if you -[4527.00 --> 4527.86] identify as -[4527.86 --> 4528.42] a Christian -[4528.42 --> 4529.34] but you -[4529.34 --> 4529.78] don't go -[4529.78 --> 4530.28] to church -[4530.28 --> 4530.88] what the -[4530.88 --> 4531.38] statistics -[4531.38 --> 4532.18] actually are -[4532.18 --> 4532.72] bearing out -[4532.72 --> 4533.12] is that you -[4533.12 --> 4533.66] have higher -[4533.66 --> 4534.38] anxiety -[4534.38 --> 4535.38] and less -[4535.38 --> 4535.86] hope for -[4535.86 --> 4536.38] the world -[4536.38 --> 4537.42] than even -[4537.42 --> 4538.64] our non-Christian -[4538.64 --> 4539.82] neighbors -[4539.82 --> 4542.16] right you've -[4542.16 --> 4542.60] got much -[4542.60 --> 4544.58] less self-reporting -[4544.58 --> 4545.16] about your -[4545.16 --> 4546.10] own well-being -[4546.10 --> 4547.56] right to -[4547.56 --> 4549.02] simply name -[4549.02 --> 4549.60] the name -[4549.60 --> 4550.50] of Christianity -[4550.50 --> 4551.90] without engaging -[4551.90 --> 4552.62] in the church -[4552.62 --> 4553.60] actually seems -[4553.60 --> 4554.20] to be bad -[4554.20 --> 4554.66] for you -[4554.66 --> 4556.72] I'll give -[4556.72 --> 4557.00] you he -[4557.00 --> 4557.40] says -[4557.40 --> 4558.76] directly -[4558.76 --> 4559.04] he says -[4559.04 --> 4559.66] going to -[4559.66 --> 4559.98] church -[4559.98 --> 4560.76] is incredibly -[4560.76 --> 4561.28] good for -[4561.28 --> 4561.50] you -[4561.50 --> 4562.14] but what -[4562.14 --> 4562.88] is absolutely -[4562.88 --> 4563.66] worse for -[4563.66 --> 4564.10] you is -[4564.10 --> 4564.74] claiming to -[4564.74 --> 4565.36] be Christian -[4565.36 --> 4565.96] and not -[4565.96 --> 4566.58] showing up -[4566.58 --> 4567.82] not engaging -[4567.82 --> 4568.14] in the -[4568.14 --> 4568.60] practices -[4568.60 --> 4571.06] and so as -[4571.06 --> 4571.54] we sit here -[4571.54 --> 4572.14] and we wonder -[4572.14 --> 4573.44] about ourselves -[4573.44 --> 4574.36] and as we -[4574.36 --> 4574.90] look at our -[4574.90 --> 4575.66] own lives -[4575.66 --> 4576.94] as we ask -[4576.94 --> 4577.60] the question -[4577.60 --> 4578.92] about those -[4578.92 --> 4580.24] who think -[4580.24 --> 4580.84] they know -[4580.84 --> 4583.16] but maybe -[4583.16 --> 4584.18] are missing -[4584.18 --> 4585.34] something -[4585.34 --> 4587.24] as we wonder -[4587.24 --> 4588.20] about how it -[4588.20 --> 4588.86] is that the -[4588.86 --> 4589.88] stones will -[4589.88 --> 4590.74] cry out -[4590.74 --> 4591.80] but the people -[4591.80 --> 4592.80] don't recognize -[4592.80 --> 4593.34] him -[4593.34 --> 4594.84] as we ensure -[4594.84 --> 4595.50] that we're not -[4595.50 --> 4596.48] making the same -[4596.48 --> 4597.76] mistake -[4597.76 --> 4599.76] I invite you -[4599.76 --> 4601.02] to reflect -[4601.02 --> 4602.74] and to wonder -[4602.74 --> 4604.72] discussing -[4604.72 --> 4605.68] this trend -[4605.68 --> 4606.54] in the UK -[4606.54 --> 4607.86] Gavin Ortlund -[4607.86 --> 4609.20] says -[4609.20 --> 4610.32] wouldn't it -[4610.32 --> 4611.02] be just -[4611.02 --> 4611.92] like God -[4611.92 --> 4612.50] to bring -[4612.50 --> 4613.10] about a -[4613.10 --> 4614.32] quiet revival -[4614.32 --> 4615.34] in an age -[4615.34 --> 4615.92] filled with -[4615.92 --> 4616.52] blustering -[4616.52 --> 4617.94] and grandstanding -[4617.94 --> 4619.10] and polarities -[4619.10 --> 4620.14] and arguing -[4620.14 --> 4620.98] for God -[4620.98 --> 4621.48] just to do -[4621.48 --> 4622.08] his thing -[4622.08 --> 4623.08] quietly -[4623.08 --> 4626.26] earlier we -[4626.26 --> 4626.84] sang a song -[4626.84 --> 4627.38] I see a -[4627.38 --> 4627.90] generation -[4627.90 --> 4628.86] rising up -[4628.86 --> 4629.32] to take -[4629.32 --> 4630.00] their place -[4630.00 --> 4632.70] I think -[4632.70 --> 4633.24] God's doing -[4633.24 --> 4633.72] something -[4633.72 --> 4635.14] in our -[4635.14 --> 4635.52] midst -[4635.52 --> 4636.54] I think -[4636.54 --> 4637.04] God's doing -[4637.04 --> 4637.42] something -[4637.42 --> 4638.02] in our -[4638.02 --> 4638.56] time -[4638.56 --> 4639.22] and it's -[4639.22 --> 4639.78] our privilege -[4639.78 --> 4640.10] and our -[4640.10 --> 4640.48] joy -[4640.48 --> 4641.66] to partner -[4641.66 --> 4642.16] with him -[4642.16 --> 4642.82] to cooperate -[4642.82 --> 4643.52] with the -[4643.52 --> 4644.10] Holy Spirit -[4644.10 --> 4644.80] in what -[4644.80 --> 4645.34] God is -[4645.34 --> 4645.66] doing -[4645.66 --> 4646.36] and maybe -[4646.36 --> 4647.54] this quiet -[4647.54 --> 4648.06] revival -[4648.06 --> 4648.58] gets just -[4648.58 --> 4649.06] a little bit -[4649.06 --> 4649.76] louder for a -[4649.76 --> 4650.02] day -[4650.02 --> 4650.76] on Palm -[4650.76 --> 4651.10] Sunday -[4651.10 --> 4652.82] maybe -[4652.82 --> 4654.08] we see -[4654.08 --> 4654.48] Jesus -[4654.48 --> 4655.18] for who -[4655.18 --> 4656.26] he really -[4656.26 --> 4657.40] is -[4657.40 --> 4659.12] and may -[4659.12 --> 4659.54] I say -[4659.54 --> 4660.04] that's also -[4660.04 --> 4660.34] why we -[4660.34 --> 4660.60] come to -[4660.60 --> 4660.78] this -[4660.78 --> 4661.08] table -[4661.08 --> 4662.54] so that -[4662.54 --> 4662.76] we can -[4662.76 --> 4662.96] see -[4662.96 --> 4663.30] Jesus -[4663.30 --> 4663.82] for who -[4663.82 --> 4664.10] he -[4664.10 --> 4664.88] really -[4664.88 --> 4665.58] is -[4665.58 --> 4665.84] so that -[4665.84 --> 4666.10] we can -[4666.10 --> 4666.60] meet him -[4666.60 --> 4667.04] here -[4667.04 --> 4667.64] in the -[4667.64 --> 4667.92] word -[4667.92 --> 4668.22] and in -[4668.22 --> 4668.36] our -[4668.36 --> 4668.68] worship -[4668.68 --> 4669.08] and then -[4669.08 --> 4669.34] we can -[4669.34 --> 4669.82] take him -[4669.82 --> 4670.24] in -[4670.24 --> 4670.88] in the -[4670.88 --> 4671.20] bread -[4671.20 --> 4672.32] and the -[4672.32 --> 4672.68] juice -[4672.68 --> 4674.70] God -[4674.70 --> 4675.40] is up -[4675.40 --> 4675.66] to -[4675.66 --> 4676.32] something -[4676.32 --> 4677.50] amen -[4677.50 --> 4679.40] let's -[4679.40 --> 4679.80] join him -[4679.80 --> 4680.12] in that -[4680.12 --> 4680.38] work -[4680.38 --> 4680.84] let's -[4680.84 --> 4680.98] pray -[4680.98 --> 4681.34] together -[4681.34 --> 4687.34] God -[4687.34 --> 4687.60] you -[4687.60 --> 4688.08] are -[4688.08 --> 4688.82] so -[4688.82 --> 4689.84] good -[4689.84 --> 4691.30] it's -[4691.30 --> 4691.74] magnificent -[4691.74 --> 4692.66] to see -[4692.66 --> 4692.98] you -[4692.98 --> 4693.56] at work -[4693.56 --> 4693.90] in our -[4693.90 --> 4694.22] midst -[4694.22 --> 4694.50] and in -[4694.50 --> 4694.60] the -[4694.60 --> 4694.90] world -[4694.90 --> 4696.00] we -[4696.00 --> 4696.46] thank you -[4696.46 --> 4696.74] for the -[4696.74 --> 4697.10] privilege -[4697.10 --> 4697.48] now -[4697.48 --> 4698.06] of coming -[4698.06 --> 4698.48] to -[4698.48 --> 4699.34] this -[4699.34 --> 4699.96] table -[4699.96 --> 4700.98] for the -[4700.98 --> 4701.56] truth -[4701.56 --> 4701.86] that you -[4701.86 --> 4702.24] have -[4702.24 --> 4703.18] met us -[4703.18 --> 4703.46] in -[4703.46 --> 4703.80] worship -[4703.80 --> 4704.20] and that -[4704.20 --> 4704.32] you -[4704.32 --> 4704.56] meet -[4704.56 --> 4705.02] us -[4705.02 --> 4705.66] in -[4705.66 --> 4706.02] ways -[4706.02 --> 4706.28] that we -[4706.28 --> 4706.46] can -[4706.46 --> 4706.86] taste -[4706.86 --> 4707.62] and see -[4707.62 --> 4708.22] that the -[4708.22 --> 4708.54] Lord -[4708.54 --> 4709.14] is good -[4709.14 --> 4709.54] here -[4709.54 --> 4709.96] as we -[4709.96 --> 4710.58] receive -[4710.58 --> 4711.44] from -[4711.44 --> 4711.70] you -[4711.70 --> 4712.86] we -[4712.86 --> 4713.30] join -[4713.30 --> 4713.86] now -[4713.86 --> 4714.32] in -[4714.32 --> 4714.90] this -[4714.90 --> 4715.78] feast -[4715.78 --> 4716.44] we -[4716.44 --> 4716.56] have -[4716.56 --> 4716.88] joined -[4716.88 --> 4717.16] the -[4717.16 --> 4717.98] festal -[4717.98 --> 4718.74] procession -[4718.74 --> 4719.12] and we -[4719.12 --> 4719.34] have -[4719.34 --> 4720.08] lauded -[4720.08 --> 4720.44] you -[4720.44 --> 4720.76] as -[4720.76 --> 4721.16] king -[4721.16 --> 4721.80] and now -[4721.80 --> 4722.06] we -[4722.06 --> 4722.42] come -[4722.42 --> 4722.72] to -[4722.72 --> 4723.00] your -[4723.00 --> 4723.44] banquet -[4723.44 --> 4723.96] table -[4723.96 --> 4725.80] meet -[4725.80 --> 4726.30] us -[4726.30 --> 4726.86] here -[4726.86 --> 4727.56] so that -[4727.56 --> 4727.68] we -[4727.68 --> 4727.90] might -[4727.90 --> 4728.10] go -[4728.10 --> 4728.34] from -[4728.34 --> 4728.56] this -[4728.56 --> 4728.90] place -[4728.90 --> 4729.44] nourished -[4729.44 --> 4729.96] and -[4729.96 --> 4730.58] sustained -[4730.58 --> 4730.84] and -[4730.84 --> 4731.58] encouraged -[4731.58 --> 4732.40] in our -[4732.40 --> 4732.72] lives -[4732.72 --> 4733.16] of faith -[4733.16 --> 4733.56] together -[4733.56 --> 4734.40] we pray -[4734.40 --> 4734.84] this in -[4734.84 --> 4735.50] Jesus name -[4735.50 --> 4736.52] amen -[4736.86 --> 4739.76] as we -[4739.76 --> 4739.92] go -[4739.92 --> 4740.22] through -[4740.22 --> 4740.58] the -[4740.58 --> 4740.94] table -[4740.94 --> 4741.22] we -[4741.22 --> 4741.38] have -[4741.38 --> 4741.90] a -[4741.90 --> 4742.72] special -[4742.72 --> 4744.12] liturgy -[4744.12 --> 4744.80] for us -[4744.80 --> 4745.18] one that -[4745.18 --> 4745.64] reflects -[4745.64 --> 4746.12] this -[4746.12 --> 4746.54] Palm -[4746.54 --> 4747.04] Sunday -[4747.04 --> 4747.70] tradition -[4747.70 --> 4748.50] so I -[4748.50 --> 4749.02] invite you -[4749.02 --> 4749.82] to see -[4749.82 --> 4750.26] the words -[4750.26 --> 4750.90] behind me -[4750.90 --> 4751.28] and to -[4751.28 --> 4751.80] participate -[4751.80 --> 4752.94] in the -[4752.94 --> 4753.24] ones that -[4753.24 --> 4753.42] you're -[4753.42 --> 4753.80] indicated -[4753.80 --> 4754.14] to say -[4754.14 --> 4754.52] the yellow -[4754.52 --> 4754.94] ones -[4754.94 --> 4755.84] there -[4755.84 --> 4757.46] holy -[4757.46 --> 4758.08] holy -[4758.08 --> 4758.70] holy -[4758.70 --> 4759.18] lord -[4759.18 --> 4760.02] god -[4760.02 --> 4760.36] of -[4760.36 --> 4760.78] power -[4760.78 --> 4761.04] and -[4761.04 --> 4761.38] might -[4761.38 --> 4762.06] heaven -[4762.06 --> 4762.36] and -[4762.36 --> 4762.84] earth -[4762.84 --> 4763.06] are -[4763.06 --> 4763.58] full -[4763.58 --> 4763.84] of -[4763.84 --> 4764.00] your -[4764.00 --> 4764.44] glory -[4764.44 --> 4768.30] blessed -[4768.30 --> 4769.06] is he -[4769.06 --> 4769.60] blessed -[4769.60 --> 4770.08] is the -[4770.08 --> 4770.48] king -[4770.48 --> 4770.82] who -[4770.82 --> 4771.40] comes -[4771.40 --> 4771.78] in -[4771.78 --> 4772.02] the -[4772.02 --> 4772.44] name -[4772.44 --> 4772.74] of -[4772.74 --> 4772.96] the -[4772.96 --> 4773.26] lord -[4773.26 --> 4778.78] jesus -[4778.78 --> 4779.64] comes -[4779.64 --> 4780.22] to us -[4780.22 --> 4780.52] in -[4780.52 --> 4780.84] this -[4780.84 --> 4781.16] supper -[4781.16 --> 4781.54] with -[4781.54 --> 4781.88] his -[4781.88 --> 4782.30] real -[4782.30 --> 4783.18] spiritual -[4783.18 --> 4784.12] presence -[4784.12 --> 4784.80] the -[4784.80 --> 4784.98] lord -[4784.98 --> 4785.38] jesus -[4785.38 --> 4785.76] on -[4785.76 --> 4786.20] the -[4786.20 --> 4786.44] night -[4786.44 --> 4786.60] when -[4786.60 --> 4786.72] he -[4786.72 --> 4786.92] was -[4786.92 --> 4787.34] betrayed -[4787.34 --> 4787.66] he -[4787.66 --> 4787.90] took -[4787.90 --> 4788.26] bread -[4788.26 --> 4789.20] and -[4789.20 --> 4789.50] when -[4789.50 --> 4789.82] he -[4789.82 --> 4790.20] had -[4790.20 --> 4790.80] given -[4790.80 --> 4791.44] thanks -[4791.44 --> 4792.02] he -[4792.02 --> 4792.52] broke -[4792.52 --> 4792.76] it -[4792.76 --> 4793.06] and -[4793.06 --> 4793.58] said -[4793.58 --> 4794.22] this -[4794.22 --> 4794.68] is -[4794.68 --> 4795.02] my -[4795.02 --> 4795.52] body -[4795.52 --> 4796.28] which -[4796.28 --> 4796.46] is -[4796.46 --> 4796.66] for -[4796.66 --> 4796.96] you -[4796.96 --> 4797.86] do -[4797.86 --> 4798.36] this -[4798.36 --> 4798.68] in -[4798.68 --> 4799.22] remembrance -[4799.22 --> 4800.04] of -[4800.04 --> 4800.32] me -[4800.32 --> 4802.08] and -[4802.08 --> 4802.18] in -[4802.18 --> 4802.32] the -[4802.32 --> 4802.54] same -[4802.54 --> 4802.90] way -[4802.90 --> 4804.20] he -[4804.20 --> 4804.38] took -[4804.38 --> 4804.56] the -[4804.56 --> 4804.86] cup -[4804.86 --> 4805.64] after -[4805.64 --> 4806.18] supper -[4806.18 --> 4806.94] saying -[4806.94 --> 4808.06] this -[4808.06 --> 4808.48] cup -[4808.48 --> 4809.00] is -[4809.00 --> 4809.26] the -[4809.26 --> 4809.48] new -[4809.48 --> 4809.88] covenant -[4809.88 --> 4810.84] in -[4810.84 --> 4811.02] my -[4811.02 --> 4811.40] blood -[4811.40 --> 4812.38] do -[4812.38 --> 4812.96] this -[4812.96 --> 4814.98] whenever -[4814.98 --> 4815.44] you -[4815.44 --> 4815.76] drink -[4815.76 --> 4816.00] it -[4816.00 --> 4816.42] in -[4816.42 --> 4816.86] remembrance -[4816.86 --> 4817.64] of -[4817.64 --> 4817.92] me -[4817.92 --> 4818.70] for -[4818.70 --> 4819.00] whenever -[4819.00 --> 4819.30] we -[4819.30 --> 4819.54] eat -[4819.54 --> 4819.82] this -[4819.82 --> 4820.16] bread -[4820.16 --> 4820.50] and -[4820.50 --> 4820.80] drink -[4820.80 --> 4821.14] this -[4821.14 --> 4821.48] cup -[4821.48 --> 4821.74] we -[4821.74 --> 4822.38] proclaim -[4822.38 --> 4822.92] the -[4822.92 --> 4823.32] Lord's -[4823.32 --> 4823.64] death -[4823.64 --> 4824.12] until -[4824.12 --> 4824.54] he -[4824.54 --> 4825.02] comes -[4825.02 --> 4825.82] again -[4825.82 --> 4826.74] this -[4826.74 --> 4827.24] is -[4827.24 --> 4827.54] the -[4827.54 --> 4828.10] mystery -[4828.10 --> 4828.64] of -[4828.64 --> 4829.00] our -[4829.00 --> 4829.48] faith -[4829.48 --> 4832.66] we -[4832.66 --> 4833.30] proclaim -[4833.30 --> 4834.26] your -[4834.26 --> 4834.92] resurrection -[4834.92 --> 4835.42] we -[4835.42 --> 4835.86] affirm -[4835.86 --> 4836.16] with -[4836.16 --> 4836.54] joy -[4836.54 --> 4837.48] your -[4837.48 --> 4837.96] coming -[4837.96 --> 4838.28] we -[4838.28 --> 4838.66] await -[4838.66 --> 4838.96] with -[4838.96 --> 4839.34] hope -[4839.34 --> 4840.52] glory -[4840.52 --> 4840.82] be -[4840.82 --> 4841.06] to -[4841.06 --> 4841.34] you -[4841.34 --> 4841.64] Lord -[4841.64 --> 4842.12] Jesus -[4842.12 --> 4844.84] church -[4844.84 --> 4845.24] family -[4845.24 --> 4846.46] today -[4846.46 --> 4846.92] we -[4846.92 --> 4847.38] ask -[4847.38 --> 4847.62] for -[4847.62 --> 4848.06] faith -[4848.06 --> 4848.38] that -[4848.38 --> 4848.56] will -[4848.56 --> 4849.00] open -[4849.00 --> 4849.34] our -[4849.34 --> 4849.78] eyes -[4849.78 --> 4850.00] to -[4850.00 --> 4850.52] see -[4850.52 --> 4851.30] Jesus -[4851.30 --> 4851.76] for -[4851.76 --> 4852.06] who -[4852.06 --> 4852.32] he -[4852.32 --> 4852.72] is -[4852.72 --> 4854.46] that -[4854.46 --> 4854.58] we -[4854.58 --> 4854.76] might -[4854.76 --> 4855.38] receive -[4855.38 --> 4855.72] him -[4855.72 --> 4856.20] in -[4856.20 --> 4856.64] truth -[4856.64 --> 4858.40] people -[4858.40 --> 4858.62] of -[4858.62 --> 4858.96] God -[4858.96 --> 4859.60] behold -[4859.60 --> 4860.08] and -[4860.08 --> 4860.76] see -[4860.76 --> 4861.56] your -[4861.56 --> 4862.28] God -[4862.28 --> 4864.24] we -[4864.24 --> 4864.58] open -[4864.58 --> 4864.86] our -[4864.86 --> 4865.30] eyes -[4865.30 --> 4865.52] to -[4865.52 --> 4865.84] see -[4865.84 --> 4866.16] his -[4866.16 --> 4866.56] glory -[4866.56 --> 4867.56] we -[4867.56 --> 4867.82] open -[4867.82 --> 4868.04] our -[4868.04 --> 4868.54] ears -[4868.54 --> 4868.84] to -[4868.84 --> 4869.18] hear -[4869.18 --> 4869.46] his -[4869.46 --> 4869.88] wisdom -[4869.88 --> 4870.92] we -[4870.92 --> 4871.20] open -[4871.20 --> 4871.42] our -[4871.42 --> 4871.96] hands -[4871.96 --> 4872.22] to -[4872.22 --> 4872.60] offer -[4872.60 --> 4872.90] him -[4872.90 --> 4873.30] gifts -[4873.30 --> 4874.34] we -[4874.34 --> 4874.66] open -[4874.66 --> 4874.92] our -[4874.92 --> 4875.42] mouths -[4875.42 --> 4875.76] to -[4875.76 --> 4876.06] sing -[4876.06 --> 4876.36] his -[4876.36 --> 4876.90] praise -[4876.90 --> 4877.48] and -[4877.48 --> 4877.84] receive -[4877.84 --> 4878.26] his -[4878.26 --> 4878.72] mercy -[4878.72 --> 4879.04] and -[4879.04 --> 4879.46] grace -[4879.46 --> 4881.16] hallelujah -[4881.16 --> 4881.92] he -[4881.92 --> 4882.54] is -[4882.54 --> 4883.04] Lord -[4883.04 --> 4884.64] congregation -[4884.64 --> 4884.98] of -[4884.98 --> 4885.18] Jesus -[4885.18 --> 4885.54] Christ -[4885.54 --> 4885.76] the -[4885.76 --> 4885.98] Lord -[4885.98 --> 4886.20] has -[4886.20 --> 4886.54] prepared -[4886.54 --> 4886.92] his -[4886.92 --> 4887.34] table -[4887.34 --> 4887.88] for -[4887.88 --> 4888.46] all -[4888.46 --> 4888.68] who -[4888.68 --> 4889.10] truly -[4889.10 --> 4889.70] believe -[4889.70 --> 4890.46] so -[4890.46 --> 4890.54] if -[4890.54 --> 4890.64] you -[4890.64 --> 4890.80] are -[4890.80 --> 4891.12] sorry -[4891.12 --> 4891.40] for -[4891.40 --> 4891.64] your -[4891.64 --> 4892.02] sins -[4892.02 --> 4892.64] and -[4892.64 --> 4893.10] sincerely -[4893.10 --> 4893.62] follow -[4893.62 --> 4894.00] Jesus -[4894.00 --> 4894.32] as -[4894.32 --> 4894.48] your -[4894.48 --> 4894.86] Lord -[4894.86 --> 4895.08] and -[4895.08 --> 4895.32] as -[4895.32 --> 4895.52] your -[4895.52 --> 4895.84] savior -[4895.84 --> 4896.18] you -[4896.18 --> 4896.46] are -[4896.46 --> 4896.90] invited -[4896.90 --> 4897.16] to -[4897.16 --> 4897.48] come -[4897.48 --> 4897.76] with -[4897.76 --> 4898.50] gladness -[4898.50 --> 4899.06] to -[4899.06 --> 4899.22] the -[4899.22 --> 4899.66] table -[4899.66 --> 4900.36] of -[4900.36 --> 4900.68] our -[4900.68 --> 4901.08] Lord -[4901.08 --> 4901.70] these -[4901.70 --> 4901.80] are -[4901.80 --> 4901.92] the -[4901.92 --> 4902.14] gifts -[4902.14 --> 4902.36] of -[4902.36 --> 4902.76] God -[4902.76 --> 4903.28] for -[4903.28 --> 4903.44] the -[4903.44 --> 4903.82] people -[4903.82 --> 4904.36] of -[4904.36 --> 4904.68] God -[4904.68 --> 4907.32] in -[4907.32 --> 4907.54] our -[4907.54 --> 4908.12] worship -[4908.12 --> 4908.48] together -[4908.48 --> 4908.76] this -[4908.76 --> 4909.02] morning -[4909.02 --> 4909.38] we -[4909.38 --> 4909.50] are -[4909.50 --> 4909.76] going -[4909.76 --> 4910.10] to -[4910.10 --> 4911.14] come -[4911.14 --> 4911.62] up -[4911.62 --> 4912.14] to -[4912.14 --> 4912.46] one -[4912.46 --> 4912.62] of -[4912.62 --> 4912.94] three -[4912.94 --> 4913.64] stations -[4913.64 --> 4914.12] to -[4914.12 --> 4914.70] be -[4914.70 --> 4915.24] served -[4915.24 --> 4915.50] by -[4915.50 --> 4915.72] one -[4915.72 --> 4915.86] of -[4915.86 --> 4916.06] our -[4916.06 --> 4916.60] pastoral -[4916.60 --> 4917.00] elders -[4917.00 --> 4917.94] from -[4917.94 --> 4918.56] the -[4918.56 --> 4920.40] elements -[4920.40 --> 4920.90] and -[4920.90 --> 4921.34] receiving -[4921.34 --> 4921.60] the -[4921.60 --> 4921.94] bread -[4921.94 --> 4922.42] and -[4922.42 --> 4922.84] receiving -[4922.84 --> 4923.10] the -[4923.10 --> 4923.38] juice -[4923.38 --> 4924.68] so -[4924.68 --> 4924.88] for -[4924.88 --> 4925.02] the -[4925.02 --> 4925.22] next -[4925.22 --> 4925.72] three -[4925.72 --> 4926.44] songs -[4926.44 --> 4927.24] you -[4927.24 --> 4927.60] may -[4927.60 --> 4928.56] reflect -[4928.56 --> 4928.92] and -[4928.92 --> 4929.30] pray -[4929.30 --> 4929.58] and -[4929.58 --> 4929.96] prepare -[4929.96 --> 4930.24] your -[4930.24 --> 4930.56] heart -[4930.56 --> 4930.76] and -[4930.76 --> 4930.92] then -[4930.92 --> 4931.32] sometime -[4931.32 --> 4932.20] in -[4932.20 --> 4932.48] that -[4932.48 --> 4932.94] period -[4932.94 --> 4933.30] you're -[4933.30 --> 4933.60] invited -[4933.60 --> 4933.82] to -[4933.82 --> 4934.02] come -[4934.02 --> 4934.20] up -[4934.20 --> 4934.38] to -[4934.38 --> 4934.68] whichever -[4934.68 --> 4935.16] station -[4935.16 --> 4935.50] is -[4935.50 --> 4936.16] nearest -[4936.16 --> 4936.46] to -[4936.46 --> 4936.74] you -[4936.74 --> 4937.24] as -[4937.24 --> 4937.38] you -[4937.38 --> 4937.62] come -[4937.62 --> 4937.84] up -[4937.84 --> 4938.04] and -[4938.04 --> 4938.18] you -[4938.18 --> 4938.66] receive -[4938.66 --> 4939.20] the -[4939.20 --> 4939.50] bread -[4939.50 --> 4939.86] from -[4939.86 --> 4940.22] an -[4940.22 --> 4940.50] elder -[4940.50 --> 4940.86] and -[4940.86 --> 4941.08] the -[4941.08 --> 4941.38] juice -[4941.38 --> 4941.70] from -[4941.70 --> 4941.84] an -[4941.84 --> 4942.06] elder -[4942.06 --> 4942.30] you -[4942.30 --> 4942.50] may -[4942.50 --> 4942.74] then -[4942.74 --> 4943.24] consume -[4943.24 --> 4943.46] them -[4943.46 --> 4943.70] right -[4943.70 --> 4944.02] there -[4944.02 --> 4944.30] or -[4944.30 --> 4944.46] you -[4944.46 --> 4944.58] may -[4944.58 --> 4944.84] take -[4944.84 --> 4944.98] them -[4944.98 --> 4945.18] back -[4945.18 --> 4945.34] to -[4945.34 --> 4945.52] your -[4945.52 --> 4945.82] seats -[4945.82 --> 4946.02] and -[4946.02 --> 4946.48] continue -[4946.48 --> 4947.10] reflecting -[4947.10 --> 4947.92] and -[4947.92 --> 4948.88] meditating -[4948.88 --> 4949.20] and -[4949.20 --> 4949.48] joining -[4949.48 --> 4949.68] in -[4949.68 --> 4949.80] the -[4949.80 --> 4950.10] worship -[4950.10 --> 4950.34] that -[4950.34 --> 4950.48] we -[4950.48 --> 4950.68] are -[4950.68 --> 4951.58] singing -[4951.58 --> 4951.88] until -[4951.88 --> 4952.08] you -[4952.08 --> 4952.24] are -[4952.24 --> 4952.48] ready -[4952.48 --> 4952.78] to -[4952.78 --> 4953.22] take -[4953.22 --> 4953.50] that -[4953.50 --> 4953.84] in -[4953.84 --> 4954.68] you -[4954.68 --> 4954.84] may -[4954.84 --> 4955.02] do -[4955.02 --> 4955.34] that -[4955.34 --> 4956.88] on -[4956.88 --> 4957.20] each -[4957.20 --> 4957.70] tray -[4957.70 --> 4957.98] of -[4957.98 --> 4958.36] bread -[4958.36 --> 4958.72] there -[4958.72 --> 4959.04] are -[4959.04 --> 4960.30] smaller -[4964.38 --> 4964.48] if -[4964.48 --> 4964.58] you -[4964.58 --> 4964.96] require -[4964.96 --> 4965.30] that -[4965.30 --> 4967.76] again -[4967.76 --> 4967.94] we -[4967.94 --> 4968.08] want -[4968.08 --> 4968.16] to -[4968.16 --> 4968.42] remind -[4968.42 --> 4968.58] you -[4968.58 --> 4968.82] come -[4968.82 --> 4969.26] forward -[4969.26 --> 4969.58] as -[4969.58 --> 4969.74] you -[4969.74 --> 4969.90] are -[4969.90 --> 4970.14] ready -[4970.14 --> 4970.36] there -[4970.36 --> 4970.56] will -[4970.56 --> 4970.82] not -[4970.82 --> 4971.08] be -[4971.08 --> 4971.32] an -[4971.32 --> 4971.58] elder -[4971.58 --> 4972.20] indicating -[4972.20 --> 4972.46] when -[4972.46 --> 4972.58] it -[4972.58 --> 4972.72] is -[4972.72 --> 4972.86] your -[4972.86 --> 4973.14] time -[4973.14 --> 4973.30] to -[4973.30 --> 4973.46] go -[4973.46 --> 4973.84] forward -[4973.84 --> 4974.14] but -[4974.14 --> 4974.28] there -[4974.28 --> 4974.54] is -[4974.54 --> 4974.72] an -[4974.72 --> 4974.98] elder -[4974.98 --> 4975.18] who -[4975.18 --> 4975.32] will -[4975.32 --> 4975.48] be -[4975.48 --> 4975.90] roving -[4975.90 --> 4976.36] through -[4976.36 --> 4976.68] the -[4976.68 --> 4977.00] space -[4977.00 --> 4977.18] and -[4977.18 --> 4977.26] so -[4977.26 --> 4977.36] if -[4977.36 --> 4977.50] you're -[4977.50 --> 4977.92] unable -[4977.92 --> 4978.16] to -[4978.16 --> 4978.38] come -[4978.38 --> 4978.84] forward -[4978.84 --> 4979.50] just -[4979.50 --> 4979.76] please -[4979.76 --> 4980.26] indicate -[4980.26 --> 4980.64] that -[4980.64 --> 4980.86] to -[4980.86 --> 4981.34] John -[4981.34 --> 4982.12] and -[4982.12 --> 4982.28] he -[4982.28 --> 4982.54] will -[4982.54 --> 4983.36] come -[4983.36 --> 4983.60] and -[4983.60 --> 4983.88] serve -[4983.88 --> 4984.24] you -[4984.24 --> 4984.58] in -[4984.58 --> 4984.78] your -[4984.78 --> 4985.16] seats -[4985.16 --> 4985.54] in -[4985.54 --> 4985.68] the -[4985.68 --> 4985.90] same -[4985.90 --> 4986.18] manner -[4986.18 --> 4987.40] I -[4987.40 --> 4988.10] want -[4988.10 --> 4988.22] to -[4988.22 --> 4988.56] invite -[4988.56 --> 4988.76] the -[4988.76 --> 4989.00] elders -[4989.00 --> 4989.26] to -[4989.26 --> 4989.46] come -[4989.46 --> 4989.84] forward -[4989.84 --> 4990.06] at -[4990.06 --> 4990.26] this -[4990.26 --> 4990.64] time -[4990.64 --> 4990.88] and -[4990.88 --> 4991.06] then -[4991.06 --> 4991.52] following -[4991.52 --> 4991.94] them -[4991.94 --> 4992.18] the -[4992.18 --> 4992.54] worship -[4992.54 --> 4993.06] team -[4993.06 --> 4993.62] is -[4993.62 --> 4993.76] going -[4993.76 --> 4993.86] to -[4993.86 --> 4994.04] go -[4994.04 --> 4994.38] through -[4994.38 --> 4994.66] the -[4994.66 --> 4994.96] line -[4994.96 --> 4995.46] first -[4995.46 --> 4995.70] and -[4995.70 --> 4995.82] then -[4995.82 --> 4996.02] they'll -[4996.02 --> 4996.26] take -[4996.26 --> 4996.46] the -[4996.46 --> 4996.86] stage -[4996.86 --> 4997.84] and -[4997.84 --> 4998.14] lead -[4998.14 --> 4998.34] us -[4998.34 --> 4998.58] in -[4998.58 --> 4999.00] song -[4999.00 --> 4999.40] as -[4999.40 --> 4999.68] we -[4999.68 --> 5000.28] come -[5000.28 --> 5000.62] to -[5000.62 --> 5001.00] God -[5001.00 --> 5001.88] in -[5001.88 --> 5002.22] these -[5002.22 --> 5002.94] elements -[5002.94 --> 5003.38] together -[5018.10 --> 5043.06] I -[5043.06 --> 5043.26] don't -[5043.26 --> 5043.40] know -[5043.40 --> 5043.52] if -[5043.52 --> 5043.60] you're -[5043.60 --> 5044.02] necessary -[5044.02 --> 5044.40] here -[5044.40 --> 5046.48] no -[5046.48 --> 5060.72] do -[5060.72 --> 5065.70] to -[5065.70 --> 5067.84] connect -[5067.84 --> 5097.82] Thank you. -[5097.84 --> 5127.82] Thank you. -[5127.84 --> 5147.84] Oh, to see the dawn of the darkest day, Christ on the road to Calvary. -[5147.84 --> 5149.84] Christ on the road to Calvary. -[5149.84 --> 5153.84] Christ on the road to Calvary. -[5153.84 --> 5165.84] Torn and beaten men, nailed to a cross of wood. -[5165.84 --> 5177.66] This the power of the cross. -[5177.66 --> 5187.08] Christ became sin for us. -[5187.66 --> 5191.66] Took the blame. -[5191.66 --> 5203.26] O'er the wrath, waste and forgiven at the cross. -[5203.26 --> 5220.38] Oh, to see the pain written on your face. -[5220.38 --> 5229.38] Bearing the awesome weight of sin. -[5229.38 --> 5234.72] Every bitter thought. -[5235.38 --> 5239.38] Every evil deed. -[5239.38 --> 5247.38] Down in your blood, stay proud. -[5247.38 --> 5256.38] As the power of the cross. -[5256.38 --> 5265.38] Christ became sin for us. -[5265.38 --> 5267.38] Took the blame. -[5267.38 --> 5271.38] Took the blame. -[5271.38 --> 5281.38] O'er the wrath, waste and forgiven at the cross. -[5281.38 --> 5293.38] Now the daylight flees. -[5293.38 --> 5297.38] Now the ground beneath. -[5297.38 --> 5303.38] Quakes as its maker. -[5303.38 --> 5307.38] Bows his head. -[5307.38 --> 5309.38] Curtain torn in two. -[5309.38 --> 5313.38] Dead are raised to life. -[5313.38 --> 5317.38] Dead are raised to life. -[5317.38 --> 5325.38] Finish the victory cry. -[5325.38 --> 5334.38] Here's the power of the cross. -[5334.38 --> 5335.38] The power of the cross. -[5335.38 --> 5336.38] Lies became sin for us. -[5336.38 --> 5341.38] Lies became sin for us. -[5341.38 --> 5347.38] Took the blame. -[5347.38 --> 5359.38] Pour the wrath, waste and forgiven at the cross. -[5359.38 --> 5369.38] を殺っているかもらえることになる changer まし8 -[5369.38 --> 5387.38] 2 頃およりに Indeed心の粗骨を揚っているか -[5387.38 --> 5389.38] to death -[5389.38 --> 5391.38] life is -[5391.82 --> 5393.38] right to live -[5394.74 --> 5395.38] walk -[5396.34 --> 5397.38] through yourself -[5398.60 --> 5399.38] this -[5399.72 --> 5401.38] blood -[5402.82 --> 5403.38] is -[5404.16 --> 5405.38] the -[5405.38 --> 5407.38] path -[5407.38 --> 5409.38] of the cross -[5411.70 --> 5415.38] Son of God -[5415.38 --> 5417.38] sleep -[5417.38 --> 5419.38] for us -[5419.38 --> 5421.38] what -[5421.38 --> 5423.38] about -[5423.38 --> 5425.38] what -[5425.38 --> 5427.38] a cost -[5427.38 --> 5429.38] we stand -[5429.38 --> 5431.38] forgiven -[5431.38 --> 5433.38] at the -[5433.38 --> 5435.38] cross -[5435.38 --> 5437.38] the -[5437.38 --> 5439.38] cross -[5439.38 --> 5441.38] the -[5441.38 --> 5443.38] cross -[5443.38 --> 5445.38] the -[5445.38 --> 5447.38] cross -[5447.38 --> 5449.38] the -[5449.38 --> 5451.38] cross -[5451.38 --> 5453.38] the -[5453.38 --> 5455.38] cross -[5455.38 --> 5457.38] the -[5457.38 --> 5459.38] cross -[5459.38 --> 5461.38] the -[5461.38 --> 5463.38] cross -[5463.38 --> 5465.38] the -[5465.38 --> 5467.38] cross -[5467.38 --> 5469.38] the -[5469.38 --> 5471.38] cross -[5471.38 --> 5473.38] the -[5473.38 --> 5475.38] cross -[5475.38 --> 5477.38] the -[5477.38 --> 5479.38] cross -[5479.38 --> 5481.38] the -[5481.38 --> 5483.38] cross -[5483.38 --> 5485.38] the -[5485.38 --> 5487.38] cross -[5487.38 --> 5489.38] the -[5489.38 --> 5491.38] cross -[5491.38 --> 5493.38] the -[5493.38 --> 5495.38] cross -[5495.38 --> 5497.38] the -[5497.38 --> 5499.38] cross -[5499.38 --> 5501.38] cross -[5501.38 --> 5503.38] the -[5503.38 --> 5505.38] cross -[5505.38 --> 5507.38] the -[5507.38 --> 5509.38] cross -[5509.38 --> 5511.38] the -[5511.38 --> 5513.38] cross -[5513.38 --> 5515.38] the -[5515.38 --> 5517.38] cross -[5517.38 --> 5519.38] the -[5519.38 --> 5521.38] cross -[5521.38 --> 5523.38] the -[5523.38 --> 5525.38] cross -[5525.38 --> 5527.38] the -[5527.38 --> 5529.38] cross -[5529.38 --> 5531.38] the -[5531.38 --> 5533.38] cross -[5533.38 --> 5535.38] cross -[5535.38 --> 5537.38] the -[5537.38 --> 5539.38] cross -[5539.38 --> 5541.38] the -[5541.38 --> 5543.38] cross -[5543.38 --> 5545.38] the -[5545.38 --> 5547.38] cross -[5547.38 --> 5549.38] the -[5549.38 --> 5551.38] cross -[5551.38 --> 5553.38] cross -[5553.38 --> 5555.38] the -[5555.38 --> 5556.38] cross -[5556.38 --> 5557.38] the -[5557.38 --> 5558.38] cross -[5558.38 --> 5559.38] the -[5559.38 --> 5561.38] cross -[5561.38 --> 5562.38] the -[5562.38 --> 5563.38] cross -[5563.38 --> 5565.38] the -[5565.38 --> 5566.38] cross -[5566.38 --> 5567.38] the -[5567.38 --> 5569.38] cross -[5569.38 --> 5571.38] COMMERIA -[5571.38 --> 5572.38] I -[5572.38 --> 5573.38] will -[5573.38 --> 5575.38] worship -[5575.38 --> 5577.38] you -[5577.38 --> 5584.16] I know I'll find hands and pray to get every chance -[5584.16 --> 5589.52] Because all that I have is a hallelujah -[5589.52 --> 5594.24] Hallelujah -[5594.24 --> 5601.30] And I know it's not much, but I've nothing else before we -[5601.30 --> 5605.62] Except for a heart singing -[5605.62 --> 5609.62] Hallelujah -[5609.62 --> 5615.62] Hallelujah -[5615.62 --> 5625.62] Come on, my soul -[5626.16 --> 5631.08] Oh, don't you get shy or need to lift up your song -[5631.08 --> 5636.12] Because you've got a lion inside of those lungs -[5636.12 --> 5639.08] Get up and praise the Lord -[5639.08 --> 5645.48] Oh, come on, my soul -[5645.48 --> 5650.36] Oh, don't you get shy or need to lift up your song -[5650.36 --> 5655.40] Because you've got a lion inside of those lungs -[5655.40 --> 5659.40] Get up and praise the Lord -[5659.40 --> 5663.40] Oh, come on, my soul -[5663.40 --> 5668.40] Oh, don't you get shy or need to lift up your song -[5668.40 --> 5673.40] Because you've got a lion inside of those lungs -[5673.40 --> 5677.40] Get up and praise the Lord -[5677.40 --> 5679.40] Oh, come on, my soul -[5679.40 --> 5681.40] Oh, come on, my soul -[5681.40 --> 5683.40] Oh, come on, my soul -[5683.40 --> 5685.40] Oh, come on, my soul -[5685.40 --> 5687.40] Oh, come on, my soul -[5687.40 --> 5689.40] Oh, come on, my soul -[5689.40 --> 5691.40] Oh, come on, my soul -[5691.40 --> 5693.40] Oh, come on, my soul -[5693.40 --> 5695.40] Oh, come on, my soul -[5695.40 --> 5697.40] Oh, come on, my soul -[5697.40 --> 5704.40] Because all that I have is a hallelujah -[5704.40 --> 5709.40] Hallelujah -[5709.40 --> 5711.40] And I know it's not much -[5711.40 --> 5716.40] But I have nothing else fit for a king -[5716.40 --> 5719.40] Except for a heart singing -[5719.40 --> 5724.40] Hallelujah -[5724.40 --> 5730.40] Hallelujah -[5730.40 --> 5734.40] Hallelujah -[5746.40 --> 5769.40] Before the throne of God above -[5769.40 --> 5775.40] I have a strong and perfect plea -[5775.40 --> 5781.40] A great high priest whose name is Lord -[5781.40 --> 5786.40] Whoever lives and pleads for me -[5786.40 --> 5792.40] My name is graven on his hands -[5792.40 --> 5797.40] My name is written on his heart -[5797.40 --> 5803.40] I know that while in heaven he stands -[5803.40 --> 5809.40] No tongue can bid me thence depart -[5809.40 --> 5813.40] No tongue can bid me thence depart -[5813.40 --> 5817.40] No tongue can bid me thence depart -[5817.40 --> 5827.40] When Satan tempts me to despair -[5827.40 --> 5832.40] And tells me of the guilt within -[5832.40 --> 5837.40] But would I look and see him there -[5837.40 --> 5843.40] Who made an end of all my sin -[5843.40 --> 5848.40] Because the sinless Savior died -[5848.40 --> 5852.40] My sinful soul is counted free -[5852.40 --> 5858.40] For God the justice satisfied -[5858.40 --> 5863.40] To look on him and pardon me -[5863.40 --> 5869.40] To look on him and pardon me -[5869.40 --> 5881.40] Be bold in there the risen Lamb -[5881.40 --> 5886.40] My perfect spotless righteousness -[5886.40 --> 5891.40] The great unchangeable I am -[5891.40 --> 5897.40] The King of glory and of grace -[5897.40 --> 5902.40] One with himself I cannot die -[5902.40 --> 5907.40] My soul is purchased by his blood -[5907.40 --> 5912.40] My life is filled with Christ on high -[5912.40 --> 5922.40] With Christ my Savior and my God -[5922.40 --> 5924.40] With Christ my Savior and my God -[5924.40 --> 5936.40] With Christ my Savior and my God -[5936.40 --> 5941.40] With Christ my Savior and my God -[5941.40 --> 5955.40] With Christ my Savior and my God -[5955.40 --> 5959.40] Yeah? No? -[5959.40 --> 5960.40] Yeah? No? -[5960.40 --> 5961.40] Yeah? -[5961.40 --> 5962.40] Yeah? -[5962.40 --> 5963.40] Yeah? -[5963.40 --> 5964.40] Yeah? -[5964.40 --> 5965.40] I want to be the last guy that gets in the way -[5965.40 --> 5967.40] Of our continuing to worship -[5967.40 --> 5972.40] So as we go this week we go with God -[5972.40 --> 5975.40] And not only with him but he goes before us -[5975.40 --> 5978.40] Preparing a way for us to go -[5978.40 --> 5981.40] And so we walk with him -[5982.40 --> 5984.40] Before we receive God's blessing -[5984.40 --> 5987.40] Just one quick reminder and invitation -[5987.40 --> 5991.40] We have the Mexico mission recap lunch here -[5991.40 --> 5993.40] We're going to aim to start that at noon -[5993.40 --> 5996.40] And so please hang out enjoy your fellowship -[5996.40 --> 6000.40] Have coffee and together and stick around -[6000.40 --> 6002.40] And we'll transform this space -[6002.40 --> 6004.40] If you are able to help transforming the space -[6004.40 --> 6008.40] Closer to noon that would be helpful and wonderful -[6008.40 --> 6012.40] And then we'll hear from them and their time there -[6012.40 --> 6016.40] As you go then receive the blessing of our God -[6016.40 --> 6022.40] May God go before you to lead you -[6022.40 --> 6025.40] May God go behind you to protect you -[6026.40 --> 6029.40] May God go beneath you to support you -[6029.40 --> 6032.40] And may God go beside you to befriend you -[6032.40 --> 6034.40] Do not be afraid -[6034.40 --> 6037.40] Let the blessing of God come upon you today -[6037.40 --> 6040.40] Do not be afraid but go in peace -[6040.40 --> 6044.40] To love and serve our King -[6044.40 --> 6046.40] Amen -[6046.40 --> 6048.40] großer to know for you -[6048.40 --> 6052.40] Listen in Phil Knowing is clear -[6052.40 --> 6054.40] Time continues to prioritize you -[6054.40 --> 6057.40] and you're proud to weigh in -[6057.40 --> 6060.40] Ahh witnesses you -[6060.40 --> 6063.90] and long Bulgar pastor -[6063.90 --> 6072.62] In the darkness we were waiting -[6072.62 --> 6076.62] Without hope, without light -[6076.62 --> 6080.08] Till from heaven you came running -[6080.08 --> 6084.24] There was mercy in your eyes -[6084.24 --> 6087.70] To fulfill the law and prophets -[6087.70 --> 6091.40] To a virgin gave the word -[6091.40 --> 6094.86] From a throne of endless glory -[6094.86 --> 6099.30] To a cradle in the dirt -[6099.30 --> 6108.22] Praise the Father -[6108.22 --> 6111.92] Praise the Son -[6111.92 --> 6115.62] Praise the Spirit -[6115.62 --> 6119.38] Three in one -[6119.38 --> 6122.84] God of glory -[6122.84 --> 6126.30] Majestine -[6126.30 --> 6134.30] Praise forever to the King of kings -[6134.30 --> 6142.46] To reveal the kingdom proudly -[6142.46 --> 6146.24] And to reconcile the lost -[6146.24 --> 6149.70] To redeem the whole creation -[6149.70 --> 6153.70] You did not despise the cross -[6153.70 --> 6156.98] For even in your suffering -[6156.98 --> 6160.84] You started to the other side -[6160.84 --> 6164.12] Knowing this was our salvation -[6164.12 --> 6166.58] Jesus for our sin -[6166.58 --> 6175.58] Praise the Father -[6175.58 --> 6177.58] Praise the Father -[6177.58 --> 6180.58] Praise the Son -[6180.58 --> 6184.58] Praise the Spirit -[6184.58 --> 6186.04] Praise the Son -[6186.04 --> 6188.04] Praise the Son -[6188.04 --> 6192.04] God of glory -[6192.04 --> 6194.04] Majestine -[6194.04 --> 6196.04] Praise the Son -[6196.04 --> 6198.04] Praise the Son -[6198.04 --> 6200.04] Praise the Son -[6200.04 --> 6202.04] Praise the Son -[6202.04 --> 6204.50] Praise the Son -[6204.50 --> 6205.50] Praise the Son -[6205.50 --> 6207.50] Praise the Son -[6207.50 --> 6211.88] And the morning that you rose -[6211.88 --> 6215.58] All of heaven held its bread -[6215.58 --> 6219.22] Till that stone was moved for good -[6219.22 --> 6222.50] For the land had conquered dead -[6222.50 --> 6226.66] And the dead rose from their tombs -[6226.66 --> 6230.12] And the angels stood in awe -[6230.12 --> 6233.12] For the souls of all who've come -[6233.12 --> 6237.12] To the Father are restored -[6237.12 --> 6241.12] And the church of Christ was born -[6241.12 --> 6244.12] Then the Spirit lit the flame -[6244.12 --> 6247.58] Now this gospel truth of old -[6247.58 --> 6249.58] Shall not heal -[6249.58 --> 6251.58] Shall not fade -[6251.58 --> 6255.52] By His blood and in His name -[6255.52 --> 6258.58] In His freedom I am free -[6258.58 --> 6262.62] For the love of Jesus Christ -[6262.62 --> 6266.58] Who has resurrected me -[6266.58 --> 6273.58] Praise the Son -[6273.58 --> 6275.72] Praise the Father -[6275.72 --> 6278.04] Praise the Son -[6278.04 --> 6279.04] Praise the Son -[6279.04 --> 6282.04] Praise the Spirit -[6282.04 --> 6286.04] Three in one -[6286.04 --> 6290.04] God of glory -[6290.04 --> 6293.04] Majestine -[6293.04 --> 6296.04] Praise forever -[6296.04 --> 6300.04] To the King of Peace -[6300.04 --> 6303.04] Praise forever -[6303.04 --> 6303.54] Forever -[6303.54 --> 6308.04] To the King of Peace -[6308.04 --> 6309.96] Prince -[6309.96 --> 6311.14] icher -[6311.14 --> 6312.78] Honest Catherine -[6312.78 --> 6314.04] Armin -[6314.04 --> 6314.32] A small -[6314.32 --> 6314.62] Mother -[6314.62 --> 6315.56] In His name -[6315.56 --> 6316.00] Le First -[6316.00 --> 6316.30] 石 -[6316.66 --> 6317.88] we -[6317.88 --> 6318.38] mercury -[6318.38 --> 6320.06] During the King of Jesus -[6320.06 --> 6320.44] äsin -[6320.44 --> 6321.08] His哈哈 -[6321.08 --> 6322.40] He -[6322.40 --> 6322.56] gave His name -[6322.56 --> 6323.04] He -[6323.04 --> 6323.76] by He -[6323.76 --> 6323.94] Has -[6323.94 --> 6324.64] He -[6324.64 --> 6328.98] j -[6328.98 --> 6329.30] Him -[6329.30 --> 6332.24] Let the King of Peace -[6332.24 --> 6332.74] He -[6333.38 --> 6333.56] Air -[6333.56 --> 6334.42] Our -[6334.42 --> 6335.00] Father -[6335.00 --> 6336.38] He -[6336.38 --> 6366.36] Thank you. -[6366.38 --> 6396.36] Thank you. -[6396.38 --> 6426.36] Thank you. -[6426.38 --> 6456.36] Thank you. -[6456.38 --> 6486.36] Thank you. -[6486.38 --> 6516.36] Thank you. -[6516.38 --> 6546.36] Thank you. -[6546.38 --> 6576.36] Thank you. -[6576.38 --> 6606.36] Thank you. -[6606.38 --> 6636.36] Thank you. -[6636.38 --> 6666.36] Thank you. -[6666.38 --> 6696.36] Thank you. -[6696.38 --> 6726.36] Thank you. -[6726.36 --> 6756.34] Thank you. -[6756.36 --> 6758.36] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, April 14, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, April 14, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b1c8356c432672a8dcbfcca664c30e7918047929..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, April 14, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,80 +0,0 @@ -• Discussion of a recording device or software issue -• Useless time stamps (only "thank you" repeated throughout) -• Topic transition to a discussion on understanding time and its significance -• Explanation of the importance of precision in time-keeping, both in daily life and in historical context -• Reference to Paul's text and a suggested theme for the gathering: "Understanding what time it is" -• The concept of a "story" and how it influences worldview -• N.T. Wright's addition of the question "what time is it?" to four existing questions about worldview -• The importance of understanding one's place in the story, including self-identity, knowledge of what's wrong, and solutions for problems -• How different answers to these questions lead to varying lived priorities and interactions with others -• Examples of seemingly trivial disagreements (pineapple on pizza) that actually reveal deeper perspectives on cultural identity and tradition -• The issue of sex education in schools as an example of a complex topic influenced by deeper assumptions about human sexuality and morality. -• The speaker discusses fundamental questions about human existence and meaning. -• These questions are presuppositional, meaning they're assumed rather than scientifically determined. -• Science gives way to story in addressing these questions, which shape one's worldview. -• A lack of shared story contributes to the "meaning crisis" faced by many people today. -• The Christian story is presented as a narrative that explains human existence and purpose. -• The story consists of six parts: creation, rebellion, promise, redemption, sending, and new creation. -• God comes down to interact with humanity in each part of the story, ultimately restoring the world to its original perfect state. -• The speaker discusses the current time and how it fits into the biblical narrative of creation -• They reference Goheen and Bartholomew's book "The Drama of Scripture" which maps out the story in Act 5, Scene 2 -• Paul's message that our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed is highlighted as a key concept -• The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding our current time and place in the story for proper perspective on life and salvation -• They discuss the idea that believers have one foot in this world and one foot in the world to come, subject to God's law of love -• The speaker clarifies that Paul is not predicting a quick end to the world, but rather emphasizing the nearness of our salvation in spiritual terms. -• Setting one's heart and mind on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God -• Putting on the armor of light, which involves behaving decently as in the daytime -• The call to be both creative (innovative) and established (rooted in tradition) -• Being a Christ-centered person who prioritizes truth and love simultaneously -• Sacrificing one's desires for obedience to Jesus as a way of exalting Christ as king -• Discussing the importance of living with Christ's light and presence -• Addressing feelings of defeat, overwhelm, and inability to overcome struggles -• Encouraging listeners to clothe themselves with Christ and recognize His power within them -• Contrasting human limitations with God's ability to overcome any obstacle -• Warning against underestimating the power of Christ in one's life -• Christ's example and sacrifice -• Putting on Christ's armor and power -• Being transformed into His image -• Wearing battle clothes to wage war against sin -• Being messengers of God's reconciliation -• Remembering who you are wearing (Christ) and its effect on behavior and actions -• The connection between Christ's presence in believers and their impact on the world -• Understanding "what time it is" to live a life that reflects one's faith -• Living with imagination, reflection, innovation, consistency, improvisation, and tradition as followers of Christ -• Being transformed from one degree of glory to another and revealing Christ to the world -• The importance of knowing God's nearness in Jesus Christ -• The significance of living in the beauty and majesty of Christ's name -• The challenges of living in Christ's beauty and majesty, and the need for spiritual sustenance through communion with Christ -• Gratitude to God for creation, covenant, and sacrifice -• Significance of Jesus Christ's life, death, and resurrection -• Institution of the Lord's Supper (Communion) by Jesus -• Invitation to participate in Communion -• Faith, trust, and salvation through Jesus -• Invitation to those with little or no faith -• Invitation to the Lord's Supper, including those who have followed and failed Jesus -• Format for receiving elements at the table will be different this time -• Elements will be served by a pair of elders in each aisle -• Participants can say something or remain silent during communion -• Options for eating and drinking either at the table or taking elements back to seats -• Instructions on moving through the building during a service -• Serving the worship team and elders -• Assistance for those unable to come forward -• Invitation to serving elders and worship team to come up and be served -• Reference to the body of Christ and the blood of Christ shed for them -• The body and blood of Christ -• Prayer and worship phrases, including "Amen" repeated multiple times -• Reference to the Lamb of God and its significance -• Personal devotion and confession of sin and love for Jesus Christ -• Reflections on salvation and redemption through Jesus' sacrifice -• Repetition of phrases referencing the body and blood of Christ -• Praise and worship, focusing on Jesus as the Lamb of God -• Salvation through the precious blood of Jesus Christ -• Redemption from sin and its effects -• The power of God's love poured out over individuals -• Invitation to prayer, fellowship, and discussion about membership or profession of faith -• Meeting in person -• Celebrating "Treat Tag" in April -• Explaining what Treat Tag is (through social media or Linda) -• Blessing and protection from God for those who go out -• Not being afraid, but going in peace to love and serve the Lord -• Praise and worship of God \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, April 14, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, April 14, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 4d0c83207dd042aa87f952b0e53abbdea95ef349..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, April 14, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1358 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.96] Thank you. -[569.96 --> 599.94] Thank you. -[599.96 --> 629.94] Thank you. -[629.94 --> 659.92] Thank you. -[659.94 --> 689.92] Thank you. -[689.92 --> 719.90] Thank you. -[719.92 --> 749.90] Thank you. -[749.90 --> 779.88] Thank you. -[779.90 --> 809.88] Thank you. -[809.88 --> 839.86] Thank you. -[839.86 --> 869.84] Thank you. -[869.84 --> 899.82] Thank you. -[899.84 --> 929.82] Thank you. -[929.84 --> 959.82] Thank you. -[959.84 --> 989.82] Thank you. -[989.84 --> 1019.82] Thank you. -[1019.84 --> 1049.82] Thank you. -[1049.84 --> 1079.82] Thank you. -[1079.82 --> 1109.80] Thank you. -[1109.80 --> 1139.78] Thank you. -[1139.78 --> 1169.76] Thank you. -[1169.76 --> 1199.74] Thank you. -[1199.74 --> 1229.72] Thank you. -[1229.72 --> 1259.70] Thank you. -[1259.70 --> 1289.68] Thank you. -[1289.70 --> 1319.68] Thank you. -[1319.70 --> 1349.68] Thank you. -[1349.70 --> 1379.68] Thank you. -[1379.70 --> 1409.68] Thank you. -[1409.70 --> 1439.68] Thank you. -[1439.70 --> 1469.68] Thank you. -[1469.70 --> 1499.68] Thank you. -[1499.70 --> 1529.68] Thank you. -[1529.70 --> 1559.68] Thank you. -[1559.70 --> 1589.68] Thank you. -[1589.70 --> 1619.68] Thank you. -[1619.70 --> 1649.68] Thank you. -[1649.70 --> 1679.68] Thank you. -[1679.68 --> 1709.66] Thank you. -[1709.66 --> 1739.64] Thank you. -[1739.64 --> 1769.62] Thank you. -[1769.64 --> 1799.62] Thank you. -[1799.64 --> 1829.62] Thank you. -[1829.64 --> 1859.62] Thank you. -[1859.62 --> 1889.60] Thank you. -[1889.60 --> 1919.58] Hank is here. -[1919.58 --> 1949.58] What? -[1949.58 --> 1979.58] Mike? -[1979.58 --> 2009.56] What is that? -[2009.56 --> 2039.56] Yeah? -[2039.56 --> 2069.54] I hope you're here? -[2069.54 --> 2099.52] Thank you. -[2099.54 --> 2129.52] I don't know. -[2129.52 --> 2159.50] Thank you. -[2159.50 --> 2189.48] Thank you. -[2189.48 --> 2219.48] Thank you. -[2219.48 --> 2249.46] Thank you. -[2249.48 --> 2279.48] Thank you. -[2279.48 --> 2309.46] Thank you. -[2309.46 --> 2339.44] Thank you. -[2339.44 --> 2369.42] Thank you. -[2369.42 --> 2399.42] And with that. -[2399.42 --> 2429.40] We look at the -[2429.40 --> 2459.38] and you're worthy of the -[2459.38 --> 2489.36] and you're in the -[2489.36 --> 2519.34] with the -[2519.34 --> 2549.32] and for the -[2549.32 --> 2579.30] and you're in the -[2579.30 --> 2609.28] and you're in the -[2609.28 --> 2639.26] and trust that you're in the -[2639.26 --> 2669.24] and you're in the -[2669.24 --> 2699.22] but in your name, but in your name, amen. -[2699.22 --> 2729.20] Okay. -[2729.20 --> 2759.18] And so, you're in the -[2759.18 --> 2789.16] and you're in the -[2789.16 --> 2819.14] and you're in the church, -[2819.14 --> 2849.12] and how now, and how you're in the -[2849.12 --> 2879.10] because our salvation, -[2879.10 --> 2909.10] and you're in the Lord, and you're in the -[2909.10 --> 2939.10] and you're in the and you're in the and you're in the -[2939.10 --> 2969.10] and you're in the and you're in the -[2969.10 --> 2999.10] and you're in the -[2999.10 --> 3008.22] Now, I should also say that in our house, we are living in a very strange stage of life, -[3008.22 --> 3014.76] where the telling of time matters with absolute precision. Because if one of my kids says, -[3014.76 --> 3019.74] what time is it? And I have the audacity to say it's two o'clock, when they can see the clock, -[3019.74 --> 3029.98] and it's 1.57, they go, Dad, it is 1.57. Okay, sorry. Although I can't get too mad, because I do appreciate -[3029.98 --> 3042.74] the precision of language. But it's important for them and for us to understand what time it is. -[3042.74 --> 3050.50] And not only is that true in the minutes of the day, not only is important for us to be able to -[3050.50 --> 3057.68] read the clock of time for the day, but it's also important for us to read the clock of time -[3057.68 --> 3066.52] in the grand sweep and movement of world history. And what I want to suggest to you today, and what -[3066.52 --> 3073.06] I suggest Paul is getting at for us in this text, is this. Here's the sort of theme for our time -[3073.06 --> 3084.16] together. Understanding what time it is helps us to know how we are to live in the world and towards -[3084.16 --> 3092.50] what goal we are moving. And so being able to understand where it is in the story that we find -[3092.50 --> 3100.56] ourselves helps us know what it means to live in that story and where that story is going. -[3102.18 --> 3110.12] All right, the question, actually, what time is it, is one of those big worldview questions -[3110.12 --> 3117.50] that philosophers talk about. It's actually one that was added to a pre-existing list by a theologian -[3117.50 --> 3123.70] named N.T. Wright. Some of you are probably familiar with him. But back in the 80s already in this sort of -[3123.70 --> 3132.22] characterization, two scholars, Middleton and Walsh, they listed for us four questions to consider -[3132.22 --> 3139.24] in worldview. N.T. Wright adds the fifth one, what time is it? Those questions, I'll put them on the screen -[3139.24 --> 3150.48] behind me, is where are we? That is, what is this? Right? Who are we? What is wrong? And what's the remedy? -[3150.62 --> 3158.60] What's the solution? Right? These are the questions, the answers of which out of everyone in the world lives. -[3159.32 --> 3164.70] And the fifth one that N.T. Wright adds, and that is kind of our focus today, is what time is it? -[3164.70 --> 3174.30] Right? In a manner of speaking, the answer to these questions is the story that we live out of. -[3175.20 --> 3184.16] And the answer to these questions lead to different lived priorities in the world. -[3184.84 --> 3189.62] And so if you have different answers to the question, who am I, than someone else, that's going to change -[3189.62 --> 3195.12] the way you interact. If you have different answers to the question, what's wrong in the world, it's going -[3195.12 --> 3201.46] to change the solution, what's the remedy that you come to, and then you're going to live in a different -[3201.46 --> 3211.42] way than someone else who thinks otherwise. And often, when people have the strongest and most, like, -[3211.58 --> 3219.30] vitriolic disagreements about stuff kind of up here, it's because the stuff down here -[3219.30 --> 3225.86] is different. They're operating out of a different way of seeing the world, a different way of being -[3225.86 --> 3231.10] in the world. And so when you're talking about the stuff up here, you end up talking past each other. -[3232.40 --> 3236.80] Right? In today's world, you see this so clearly in contemporary politics. -[3237.62 --> 3242.92] It's just based on a different philosophical assumption about the world or the role of government -[3242.92 --> 3244.28] government or whatever the case may be. -[3246.88 --> 3252.00] Now, I've already mentioned politics, but let me give you an even more controversial example -[3252.00 --> 3254.88] of what I'm talking about. And I hope you're ready for this. -[3256.64 --> 3258.04] Pineapple on pizza. -[3260.94 --> 3265.24] Yes. Oh, and then a vitriolic no. See, here it goes. -[3266.14 --> 3272.24] Right? On the surface, it might seem like personal taste. Do you like it or don't you like it? -[3272.24 --> 3278.60] But as you look a little bit deeper, right, it could be based on the assumptions that someone -[3278.60 --> 3283.32] has about culinary traditions, about cultural preferences, even about identity. -[3284.30 --> 3292.50] For example, right, a traditional Italian nona may believe that pizza should adhere to traditional -[3292.50 --> 3299.24] Italian ingredients and flavors. And maybe those that are grown within a 60 kilometer radius -[3299.24 --> 3304.16] of the town that she grew up in. And there ain't no pineapples growing in Italy. -[3306.60 --> 3315.44] Additionally, pineapple offends history and disrupts the authenticity of pizza. -[3316.86 --> 3322.48] Now, on the other hand, of course, right, people not tied to those same traditions might see it as a -[3322.48 --> 3329.04] delicious fusion of sweet and savory flavors. They might embrace culinary experimentation and diversity, -[3329.42 --> 3335.42] especially if you add a little bacon. See? I almost got someone to say amen. And if that's what -[3335.42 --> 3341.90] you're saying amen for today, well, then come stick around for the end. Right? The seeming disagreement -[3341.90 --> 3348.26] about pizza toppings can actually reveal deeper and more deeply held perspectives on cultural -[3348.26 --> 3354.98] authenticity, on cultural appropriation, culinary invitation, or the flexibility of food traditions. -[3355.54 --> 3361.72] It's not just about whether pineapple tastes good on pizza, but it's about what pizza and pineapple -[3361.72 --> 3371.30] means to you. Now, that's a pretty controversial example. Let me give you a left controversial example, -[3371.30 --> 3381.18] a nice easy one for us, the topic of sex education in schools. Now, on the surface, right, this might seem -[3381.18 --> 3386.62] like a simple disagreement that revolves around information or what facts should be taught to -[3386.62 --> 3392.10] students. And yet, I'm going to suggest and continue to suggest that it reflects deeper assumptions, -[3392.38 --> 3399.44] deeper held values regarding human sexuality and morality and education. Right? On the one hand, -[3399.44 --> 3406.16] you might have a person who advocates for comprehensive sex education that includes information -[3406.16 --> 3412.64] about diverse orientations or gender identities and practices. They would argue that providing this -[3412.64 --> 3419.56] kind of knowledge produces inclusivity, it reduces stigma, it empowers individuals to make informed -[3419.56 --> 3424.66] decisions about their sexual health. And who's going to be against empowering individuals? -[3424.66 --> 3431.56] And from their perspective, understanding and accepting diverse expressions is essential for -[3431.56 --> 3437.48] creating more equitable and accepting societies. And who is going to be against equitable and -[3437.48 --> 3444.90] acceptable societies? You might have another person, though, who would emphasize that sex and sexuality -[3444.90 --> 3451.84] are inherently moral realities and inseparable from that. They might argue for the importance of -[3451.84 --> 3458.64] these conversations being rooted in the family and the role of parental authority in educating children. -[3458.64 --> 3466.72] They might argue that human flourishing is tied to living within and out of and in line with our -[3466.72 --> 3473.88] purposes, that our identities aren't primarily rooted in desire or expression or in relationships with other -[3473.88 --> 3480.32] people, but in relationship to the creator. Or, to complicate it even more, -[3480.32 --> 3488.00] you will find people who will argue elements of both. But on the surface, it's not just about what -[3488.00 --> 3495.60] information we're talking our kids with, it's so much more. And I trust that you are beginning to see that -[3495.60 --> 3503.84] these top-level ideas or arguments are the outworking of these bottom-level, more fundamental questions of -[3503.84 --> 3512.32] who are we, who am I, what's wrong in the world, and what's the answer. Your opinions up here are rooted in your -[3512.32 --> 3520.80] beliefs down here. Now, this is where it gets fun, right? Because the answer to these questions, the ones that are -[3520.80 --> 3529.84] down here, are largely presuppositional. That is, they're largely assumed, right? And it means that they also aren't -[3529.84 --> 3538.00] scientifically determined, right? These aren't questions of weights and measures. These aren't -[3538.00 --> 3545.28] questions of laws or physical properties. These are questions of meaning and purpose, right? Why does this -[3545.28 --> 3552.00] matter? Why do I matter? Why is there something in the world rather than nothing? What's the point of it all? -[3552.00 --> 3559.92] Right? This is the realm of philosophy and theology. This is where science gives way to story. -[3561.04 --> 3572.88] And story shapes your worldview. Story here is worldview, right? And worldview is the lens by which you see -[3572.88 --> 3578.88] everything in the world, the lens by which you view the world, the lens by which you make sense of -[3578.88 --> 3586.88] everything in it. And right now, in the world today, there are certain communities and groups that are -[3586.88 --> 3594.00] that are making much of what they have come to call the meaning crisis, right? And this is especially true -[3594.00 --> 3603.92] among young people today. And a part of that sense of crisis is the the result of a lacking or an inadequate -[3603.92 --> 3613.20] shared story. And so in history, right? When we excised God, when we cut God out of our lives and out of our -[3613.20 --> 3622.00] social realities together, when we rejected the community that was bound by him, we lose the answer to -[3622.00 --> 3629.20] these questions. We lose our shared story. And so, of course, that meaning crisis results from that. -[3629.20 --> 3643.36] But now, as Christians, right, we have a particular story to tell. And it's also a story by which we see -[3643.36 --> 3652.56] the whole world. N.T. Wright calls the Christian story, as told in the Bible, the true story of the whole world. -[3652.56 --> 3661.04] And actually, in our worship, we display this story every time we read a text. And maybe you've seen it. -[3661.28 --> 3667.36] Before the text appears on screen, behind me it says what the text is. And then there's a slider -[3667.36 --> 3675.12] along the bottom that locates where that book of the Bible is. And underneath that slider are a series -[3675.12 --> 3683.04] of images. We can throw the images up. Well, there's the slider. And then go to the pictures. Beautiful. -[3684.40 --> 3692.00] The true story of the whole world. Six parts. And these images there are given for you to help remember -[3692.00 --> 3699.04] and to sink into you just what this story is. And it begins on the left in creation. You can't read the -[3699.04 --> 3707.12] words probably underneath. But creation. God comes down and creates the world. God comes down in creation. -[3707.12 --> 3712.96] He looks at the world and he says, this is very good. God comes down and he walks in the garden with Adam -[3712.96 --> 3721.76] and Eve. And it was good. But then the next act of the story, what is pictured in the X there, is the act of -[3721.76 --> 3729.52] rebellion. And sometimes we use the word fall for that. Although maybe fall isn't strong enough of a -[3729.52 --> 3737.28] word. Because what took place was a rebellion of the creation, especially the human creation, against -[3737.28 --> 3746.56] its creator. But God in his grace promises a people. That's the next arrow. He promises a people -[3746.56 --> 3754.24] and to come back into the world and to restore and redeem them from their rebellion. And here you get -[3754.24 --> 3762.48] the story of God promising first to Adam and Eve and then reiterating that promise to Noah and then -[3762.48 --> 3768.48] saying again to Abraham. And then we can move through the story, right, into the judges and the kings and -[3768.48 --> 3776.48] the prophets promising over and over and over again, I am your God. You are my people. This is who I -[3776.48 --> 3783.84] am. This is who you are to be. And the culmination of that promise, the culmination of that movement -[3783.84 --> 3792.40] in the story is the cross, is redemption. Right? And therein, the fulfillment of all that God had promised to -[3792.40 --> 3799.76] the people comes in flesh, in the person of Jesus, right, who takes on flesh the second person of the -[3799.76 --> 3807.04] Trinity, infinite God becoming and found finite as a baby, first in a manger and then grown as a man, -[3807.04 --> 3813.28] living life perfectly and dying death on the cross. And we just celebrated a couple weeks ago, right, -[3813.28 --> 3819.68] Easter Sunday and the empty tomb, the victory of God over sin and death. This is redemption. -[3819.68 --> 3829.44] And then the next step of the story, right, after Jesus is ascended to the right hand of God, he sends out -[3829.44 --> 3836.32] a people again. Right? And so beginning you have a promise to a people and then you have a sending of a -[3836.32 --> 3844.64] people. Those people go out with this message of redemption. They go out with the story. And one day, that last -[3844.64 --> 3853.28] item there, that last act, again, the arrow coming down is the new creation. Because the new Jerusalem -[3853.28 --> 3862.96] will descend and all of this world will be made new. Now, sometimes in the sort of broader evangelical -[3862.96 --> 3869.36] culture that exists, people are surprised by the arrow at the end pointing down and not pointing up. -[3870.00 --> 3874.56] Because they think, oh, isn't the end goal to get to heaven? Right? To leave this earth. But -[3874.56 --> 3880.80] that's not it. Right? The real end goal is for God to come back down to this earth and to restore it all -[3881.20 --> 3888.88] to his original perfect intent and design. So in the beginning, God comes down. In the redemption, God comes down. -[3888.88 --> 3897.52] And in the end, God comes down again. This is our story. And maybe these images you can lock in your mind. -[3897.52 --> 3903.44] And so when someone asks you, what does it mean to be Christian? You can say, to find ourselves rooted in a story. -[3903.44 --> 3907.92] Well, what story? Well, let me draw six pictures for you. And there you go. -[3909.68 --> 3921.68] The question for today is, what is your place in this story? Where are we in the true story of the whole world? -[3921.68 --> 3928.56] What does Paul say in our text? He says, understanding the present time. -[3930.24 --> 3935.52] That's the question we're asking. Right? How do we understand the present hour? -[3936.24 --> 3942.48] And in this picture, you can see there are six parts to the story. And we are somewhere between the last two. -[3942.48 --> 3949.52] Right? Between that sending of a people and the new creation. We are in, maybe you could call it part 5.5. -[3951.52 --> 3957.36] Goheen and Bartholomew, who were both teachers of mine in university, they wrote a book called The Drama of Scripture. -[3957.36 --> 3966.72] They map this out. They call our present time, Act 5, Scene 2. Picking up on theater and drama. -[3967.44 --> 3972.80] That's what time it is. This is where we are in the story. Act 5, Scene 2. -[3972.80 --> 3982.80] And understanding that has a huge impact on how we see and understand the world and our place in it. -[3984.16 --> 3992.28] Now, I can see that some of you are wondering, why does this actually matter? -[3993.14 --> 3997.32] Some of you are starting to sleep on this and say, okay, get to the point, Pastor. -[3997.32 --> 4007.90] But Paul actually recognizes that too. And he says, right, he says, the hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber. -[4009.16 --> 4013.34] The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber. Paul's saying, don't sleep on this truth. -[4015.18 --> 4025.20] Don't miss the fact that this is where we are. This is what time it is. He says, our salvation is nearer now than when we first believe. -[4025.20 --> 4029.48] Right, here's a truth of the Bible for you. -[4030.56 --> 4037.70] As Christians, we believe that we are saved. This is Ephesians 2, verse 8. -[4037.78 --> 4041.76] It is by grace you have been saved through faith. We are saved. -[4041.82 --> 4045.44] And as Christians, we believe that we are being saved. -[4045.72 --> 4047.84] This is 1 Corinthians 1, 18. -[4047.84 --> 4056.22] The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God. -[4056.30 --> 4060.98] We believe we are being saved, and we believe that we will be saved. -[4061.08 --> 4063.38] This is Romans 5, verse 8. -[4063.80 --> 4071.52] Since we have been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him? -[4071.52 --> 4073.84] Shall we be saved? We are saved. -[4074.08 --> 4077.20] We are being saved, and we will be saved. -[4077.52 --> 4081.38] Our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. -[4082.44 --> 4087.30] And in this journey, in this present time, in this story, -[4087.30 --> 4092.60] we've got one foot firmly rooted in both realities. -[4092.60 --> 4097.86] One foot in this world, subject to its emperors and governing authorities, -[4098.14 --> 4103.24] and one foot in the world to come, subject to the law of love. -[4103.38 --> 4105.92] And that's what Paul wants you to wake up to. -[4106.94 --> 4109.98] Right, the idea that this isn't all there is. -[4109.98 --> 4116.24] And that when things are great, when your life is awesome, -[4116.36 --> 4121.98] even on the best day of your life, remember, it will be better. -[4123.42 --> 4128.70] And then also, remember, when things are awful on the worst day of your life, -[4128.76 --> 4132.90] on the most difficult, most tragic moment that you have ever faced, -[4132.94 --> 4138.36] when it feels all-consuming, remember that this isn't all there is. -[4138.36 --> 4142.34] Right, this isn't the end of the story. -[4143.36 --> 4147.70] Even if it happens to be the end of your story, it's not the end of the story. -[4147.86 --> 4154.24] And actually, if by grace through faith you believe that you belong to this story, -[4154.44 --> 4157.56] the end of your story isn't the end of your story, -[4158.46 --> 4159.64] because this is your story. -[4160.20 --> 4163.12] The new creation is your story. -[4164.58 --> 4167.68] Now, some people, when they read this text, and others like it, -[4167.68 --> 4170.86] they look at Paul here and what he said, -[4171.06 --> 4175.28] and they conclude that what he means is that the world will end quickly. -[4176.08 --> 4179.02] Sometimes people will say, then, look, it didn't end quickly. -[4179.22 --> 4181.98] It's been 2,000 years, and therefore Paul's wrong, -[4182.06 --> 4183.52] and so then we don't have to listen to him anymore. -[4184.10 --> 4185.18] But that's not right. -[4185.44 --> 4186.56] That's not what he's saying. -[4187.46 --> 4190.20] He says salvation is nearer today than yesterday, -[4190.50 --> 4193.00] and it will be nearer tomorrow than today. -[4193.00 --> 4197.64] And in spiritual terms, right, it is nearly over, -[4197.72 --> 4200.44] because we're in Act 5, not in Act 1. -[4203.88 --> 4204.44] Right? -[4204.62 --> 4206.98] Act 6 is eternal. -[4207.88 --> 4208.94] It's forever. -[4209.94 --> 4217.36] And our calling, then, is to live with one foot in the already of Act 6. -[4217.36 --> 4220.64] Because Jesus is raised, -[4220.74 --> 4224.36] he's already exalted to the right hand of God the Father. -[4224.48 --> 4225.76] Because Jesus is raised, -[4225.90 --> 4228.98] sin and death and the devil have already been defeated. -[4229.32 --> 4231.46] All that remains is for them to be destroyed. -[4232.90 --> 4235.74] And living in that truth right now -[4235.74 --> 4237.32] is the answer to the question, -[4237.40 --> 4238.14] what time is it? -[4238.14 --> 4247.36] If, in fact, Act 6 is eternal, -[4248.14 --> 4251.06] we ought to then already now -[4251.06 --> 4255.28] be building our lives on things that are eternal. -[4256.18 --> 4256.50] Right? -[4256.52 --> 4260.10] On God and on his truth and love and righteousness. -[4260.96 --> 4261.06] Right? -[4261.08 --> 4262.96] And in Colossians 3, we read, -[4262.96 --> 4265.62] Since then you have been raised with Christ. -[4265.62 --> 4267.60] Set your heart on things above, -[4267.76 --> 4268.76] where Christ is, -[4269.12 --> 4270.60] seated at the right hand of God. -[4270.74 --> 4272.42] Set your mind on things above, -[4272.62 --> 4274.28] not on earthly things. -[4275.88 --> 4277.50] Knowing what time it is -[4277.50 --> 4279.14] leads us to, -[4279.48 --> 4280.98] Paul says in verse 12, -[4281.46 --> 4284.64] Put on the armor of light. -[4285.60 --> 4287.14] Putting on the armor of light means -[4287.14 --> 4289.28] we behave decently as in the daytime. -[4290.36 --> 4291.68] And Tim Keller says that -[4291.68 --> 4293.16] learning how to do this -[4293.16 --> 4296.06] takes imagination and reflection. -[4297.06 --> 4298.12] N.T. Wright says that -[4298.12 --> 4300.44] it takes innovation and consistency. -[4301.30 --> 4304.34] Mark Glanville, who's a scholar at Regent, -[4304.58 --> 4307.52] says that it takes improvisation and tradition. -[4308.66 --> 4310.66] But I want you to notice those themes, right? -[4311.22 --> 4312.62] Imagination and reflection. -[4312.62 --> 4314.62] It takes looking forward creatively -[4314.62 --> 4316.66] and reflecting on, -[4316.74 --> 4317.64] looking back on, -[4317.64 --> 4319.26] the practices of old. -[4319.26 --> 4321.90] It takes innovation, right? -[4321.96 --> 4323.58] That's the new way of being. -[4323.78 --> 4325.16] And it takes consistency. -[4325.16 --> 4327.24] That's maintaining and holding true. -[4327.68 --> 4329.30] It takes improvisation. -[4329.44 --> 4331.74] That's creative license and thinking -[4331.74 --> 4332.74] and experimentation. -[4332.74 --> 4334.30] That's doing new things -[4334.30 --> 4336.16] in new ways in the world. -[4336.24 --> 4337.78] And it takes tradition. -[4338.96 --> 4340.88] It takes being rooted in something bigger -[4340.88 --> 4342.74] and greater and beyond yourself. -[4342.92 --> 4344.16] Something rooted in history. -[4344.60 --> 4347.40] Rooted in a story that started long before you -[4347.40 --> 4350.98] and will go on forever into eternity. -[4351.70 --> 4353.06] The call of the Christian, -[4353.40 --> 4354.04] hear this, -[4354.12 --> 4358.30] is to be both creative and established. -[4358.58 --> 4360.58] To be both new and experimenting -[4360.58 --> 4361.66] and rooted. -[4362.12 --> 4363.72] To be at the same time -[4363.72 --> 4365.72] living with a liberality. -[4366.02 --> 4367.18] Yes, even for you, -[4367.26 --> 4368.10] a liberalism. -[4369.06 --> 4371.04] And a conservatism. -[4371.44 --> 4373.20] A conservatism and conserving, -[4373.34 --> 4375.18] hanging on to what is good and holy. -[4375.18 --> 4379.16] If Jesus is the light of the world, -[4379.28 --> 4380.28] come from the Father, -[4380.40 --> 4382.08] full of grace and truth, -[4382.20 --> 4386.78] we also are to be full of grace and truth. -[4386.88 --> 4388.50] It is not either or. -[4388.64 --> 4389.08] It is not, -[4389.32 --> 4391.12] we're going to emphasize grace today -[4391.12 --> 4392.14] and truth tomorrow. -[4392.30 --> 4394.44] It is both simultaneously, -[4394.90 --> 4395.72] in full measure, -[4396.32 --> 4396.70] always. -[4396.70 --> 4402.14] And now, -[4402.70 --> 4405.14] as I hear this, -[4405.20 --> 4405.94] let me be really, -[4406.06 --> 4407.64] really clear. -[4408.92 --> 4410.62] Because putting on the army, -[4410.96 --> 4412.16] the armor of light, -[4412.26 --> 4413.60] putting on the armor of light, -[4413.82 --> 4417.60] means more than being a good person. -[4419.16 --> 4420.90] To put on the armor of light -[4420.90 --> 4423.68] means to be a Christ-centered, -[4424.28 --> 4425.70] Jesus-exalting person. -[4425.70 --> 4428.04] And that Christ-centered person -[4428.04 --> 4429.44] is so much more -[4429.44 --> 4431.74] than a good moral person. -[4431.88 --> 4433.12] A Christ-centered person -[4433.12 --> 4435.70] confuses people around them -[4435.70 --> 4437.96] because even as there is no compromise -[4437.96 --> 4439.60] or emotional fusion, -[4439.96 --> 4442.06] even as there is no softening of the truth, -[4442.26 --> 4442.94] there is, -[4443.06 --> 4444.30] with that hand in glove, -[4444.40 --> 4445.18] right along with it, -[4445.38 --> 4447.10] a kind of love that embraces -[4447.10 --> 4449.08] lepers and prostitutes -[4449.08 --> 4450.26] and homeless people. -[4451.40 --> 4453.28] Being a Christ-centered person -[4453.28 --> 4455.32] sacrifices your desires -[4455.32 --> 4456.80] on the altar of obedience -[4456.80 --> 4459.28] to him as a way of -[4459.28 --> 4462.12] exalting Christ as king. -[4463.40 --> 4465.12] A Christ-centered person -[4465.12 --> 4466.90] has Jesus living -[4466.90 --> 4468.78] right here in the center -[4468.78 --> 4470.32] of your life. -[4470.66 --> 4471.24] And so, -[4471.42 --> 4473.04] as a Christ-centered person, -[4473.30 --> 4474.10] ask yourself, -[4474.30 --> 4475.96] if Christ is right here, -[4476.66 --> 4477.92] what should I do? -[4477.92 --> 4481.50] What should I do in this moment, -[4481.60 --> 4482.34] right now? -[4482.44 --> 4483.98] Amid life or hardship? -[4484.12 --> 4484.52] Take that. -[4484.76 --> 4486.30] If Christ is right beside you, -[4486.36 --> 4486.48] no, -[4486.70 --> 4488.94] since Christ is right beside you, -[4489.62 --> 4490.48] what should you do? -[4491.86 --> 4494.16] Living in the armor of light -[4494.16 --> 4495.46] as children of the light, -[4495.56 --> 4498.44] we live with the light of the world -[4498.44 --> 4499.64] in us. -[4500.46 --> 4500.84] And so, -[4500.92 --> 4501.54] ask yourself, -[4501.64 --> 4503.24] in the good and the bad, -[4503.40 --> 4503.94] ask yourself, -[4504.02 --> 4505.74] in the beautiful and the ugly, -[4505.74 --> 4506.44] ask yourself, -[4506.80 --> 4509.16] what is eternally important -[4509.16 --> 4509.90] right now? -[4511.22 --> 4512.92] What really matters -[4512.92 --> 4514.26] right now? -[4518.98 --> 4519.96] And look, -[4521.22 --> 4524.66] I get it. -[4524.66 --> 4527.14] because I know that -[4527.14 --> 4529.48] some of you -[4529.48 --> 4531.98] are hearing this -[4531.98 --> 4534.02] and you're coming into this -[4534.02 --> 4536.14] feeling defeated -[4536.14 --> 4537.86] or overwhelmed. -[4538.82 --> 4539.84] Coming into this saying, -[4539.92 --> 4541.62] I just can't do it. -[4542.32 --> 4543.88] The problem is too big. -[4544.52 --> 4545.88] The addiction is too deep. -[4545.88 --> 4547.82] The hold that this thing has on me -[4547.82 --> 4548.66] is too strong. -[4548.82 --> 4550.20] The power that it has over me -[4550.20 --> 4550.90] is too great. -[4551.08 --> 4552.28] I just can't do it. -[4552.28 --> 4554.60] This habit is far too ingrained -[4554.60 --> 4555.94] in my every moment -[4555.94 --> 4556.92] of every day -[4556.92 --> 4558.38] and I can't break it. -[4558.66 --> 4558.72] And -[4558.72 --> 4561.22] I get it. -[4561.52 --> 4562.20] I get it. -[4562.20 --> 4563.18] More than you know, -[4563.84 --> 4564.92] more than I'm comfortable -[4564.92 --> 4565.72] to say up here -[4565.72 --> 4566.64] because we're live streaming -[4566.64 --> 4567.56] and I don't want the rest -[4567.56 --> 4568.40] of the world to hear it -[4568.40 --> 4569.08] for all eternity. -[4569.60 --> 4570.54] I get it. -[4572.58 --> 4573.48] I get it. -[4576.54 --> 4577.94] And if you're feeling that, -[4577.94 --> 4581.92] if that's your story -[4581.92 --> 4583.28] right now, -[4584.10 --> 4585.30] I want to preach -[4585.30 --> 4586.10] right to you. -[4587.06 --> 4587.50] I want to speak -[4587.50 --> 4589.30] right to your heart. -[4591.14 --> 4592.72] Clothe yourselves -[4592.72 --> 4595.64] with Christ. -[4597.22 --> 4598.50] Clothe yourselves -[4598.50 --> 4600.14] with Christ. -[4600.32 --> 4601.22] Put on Christ -[4601.22 --> 4603.04] because He can do it. -[4603.28 --> 4604.78] Any righteous work -[4604.78 --> 4606.38] that happens in your life -[4606.38 --> 4607.64] is through Him -[4607.64 --> 4609.10] already doing it. -[4610.18 --> 4611.10] That's what it means -[4611.10 --> 4612.48] to be raised with Him. -[4612.82 --> 4614.02] That to be a new creation, -[4614.18 --> 4615.16] to be born again, -[4615.28 --> 4615.98] to be saved, -[4616.26 --> 4617.22] be being saved, -[4617.36 --> 4618.52] and will be saved. -[4618.60 --> 4619.54] That's what this means. -[4619.98 --> 4621.22] And when you say, -[4621.62 --> 4622.50] I can't stop, -[4622.60 --> 4623.34] when you say, -[4623.46 --> 4624.50] I can't face that, -[4624.82 --> 4626.40] if you are a Christian, -[4626.76 --> 4628.16] what you're actually saying -[4628.16 --> 4630.08] is Christ can't do that. -[4630.80 --> 4632.12] Christ can't stop that. -[4632.40 --> 4633.78] Christ can't face that. -[4634.06 --> 4635.08] Christ can't change it. -[4635.08 --> 4636.54] Because you are clothed -[4636.54 --> 4637.04] with Him. -[4638.64 --> 4640.16] And it's just not true -[4640.16 --> 4642.14] that He can't do that -[4642.14 --> 4642.98] because He's done it. -[4643.14 --> 4644.06] It's just not true -[4644.06 --> 4644.98] that He can't face that -[4644.98 --> 4646.00] because He already has. -[4646.14 --> 4647.06] It's just not true -[4647.06 --> 4648.18] that He doesn't understand -[4648.18 --> 4648.76] what you're feeling -[4648.76 --> 4650.28] because He's already felt it -[4650.28 --> 4651.92] in the depths of His being. -[4651.92 --> 4659.76] Guys and girls, -[4660.10 --> 4661.78] brothers and sisters, -[4662.58 --> 4665.04] some of you here this morning -[4665.04 --> 4667.38] are seriously underestimating -[4667.38 --> 4670.46] the power of Christ in you. -[4672.46 --> 4673.84] Some of you here this morning -[4673.84 --> 4675.40] are seriously underestimating -[4675.40 --> 4676.52] what He can do -[4676.52 --> 4677.98] because He's already done it. -[4677.98 --> 4680.76] Christ who came into this world -[4680.76 --> 4681.66] and lived the life -[4681.66 --> 4682.34] you should have lived -[4682.34 --> 4683.22] obeying perfectly -[4683.22 --> 4684.42] the demands of the law -[4684.42 --> 4685.20] for you. -[4685.70 --> 4687.22] Christ who came into this world -[4687.22 --> 4688.10] and died the death -[4688.10 --> 4689.12] that you deserved -[4689.12 --> 4690.80] bearing God's wrath for sin, -[4691.12 --> 4692.14] taking on the punishment -[4692.14 --> 4693.66] that belonged to you. -[4694.22 --> 4696.42] And now if you are united to Him, -[4696.70 --> 4697.88] you are being transformed -[4697.88 --> 4699.12] and have been transformed -[4699.12 --> 4700.90] into His image. -[4701.24 --> 4702.88] Christ has changed you. -[4703.16 --> 4704.70] He has made you new. -[4704.70 --> 4706.94] And Christ is changing you. -[4707.08 --> 4708.64] And He is making you new. -[4708.82 --> 4710.52] And Christ will change you. -[4710.64 --> 4712.14] And He will make you new. -[4712.42 --> 4713.88] This is what it is -[4713.88 --> 4716.30] to clothe yourselves with Christ. -[4716.54 --> 4717.86] You are putting on -[4717.86 --> 4719.30] the armor of God. -[4719.38 --> 4720.22] You are putting on -[4720.22 --> 4721.96] the power of God. -[4723.06 --> 4724.68] These are battle clothes -[4724.68 --> 4725.76] that you're wearing. -[4726.10 --> 4727.38] That's what time it is. -[4728.48 --> 4729.46] And it's time for you -[4729.46 --> 4730.38] to wage war -[4730.38 --> 4731.92] against sin in your life -[4731.92 --> 4733.84] with one foot in this world -[4733.84 --> 4735.80] and one foot in the world to come. -[4736.16 --> 4737.80] You are messengers, -[4738.26 --> 4740.04] ambassadors of God's reconciliation -[4740.04 --> 4741.38] as though He were making -[4741.38 --> 4743.02] His appeal through you. -[4743.30 --> 4744.62] You are soldiers -[4744.62 --> 4746.46] of the one to come. -[4746.88 --> 4748.02] Clothe yourselves -[4748.02 --> 4749.58] with Christ. -[4749.58 --> 4756.72] When you see a man -[4756.72 --> 4757.34] and a woman -[4757.34 --> 4760.52] dressed in a tuxedo -[4760.52 --> 4762.00] and a ball gown, -[4763.00 --> 4764.38] you've got a pretty good idea -[4764.38 --> 4764.96] of what they're doing -[4764.96 --> 4765.60] and where they're going. -[4766.90 --> 4767.88] And dressing that way -[4767.88 --> 4768.46] has an effect -[4768.46 --> 4769.08] on your behavior. -[4770.04 --> 4772.02] When you wear your soft pink pants -[4772.02 --> 4773.10] and blue suede shoes, -[4773.88 --> 4775.42] you know you look good. -[4776.86 --> 4777.18] Right? -[4777.18 --> 4777.76] When you put on -[4777.76 --> 4779.12] that fancy colorful tie -[4779.12 --> 4780.14] and come to church, -[4780.20 --> 4781.08] you know you look good. -[4782.46 --> 4782.86] Right? -[4782.88 --> 4783.90] When you get a brand new -[4783.90 --> 4785.40] bright red baseball jersey -[4785.40 --> 4786.62] and brand new shiny -[4786.62 --> 4787.86] crispy white pants -[4787.86 --> 4789.00] and brand new -[4789.00 --> 4790.10] white and red cleats, -[4790.30 --> 4791.58] you know you look good. -[4793.90 --> 4794.86] But if you put on -[4794.86 --> 4795.62] your tuxedo -[4795.62 --> 4796.52] or your ball gown -[4796.52 --> 4797.26] and then you go stand -[4797.26 --> 4798.08] in the batter's box, -[4799.02 --> 4800.02] you look silly. -[4803.64 --> 4804.58] You look a fool. -[4804.58 --> 4809.02] Remember who you are wearing. -[4811.10 --> 4812.98] Remember how that changes -[4812.98 --> 4814.78] how you show up in the world -[4814.78 --> 4817.08] and what you are called to do -[4817.08 --> 4819.08] and how you are called to be. -[4819.26 --> 4822.72] Remember that he is with you. -[4823.66 --> 4825.62] He is in you. -[4826.38 --> 4828.72] This is the true story -[4828.72 --> 4830.14] of the whole world -[4830.14 --> 4832.46] and finding your place in it -[4832.46 --> 4835.06] means knowing what time it is. -[4835.34 --> 4837.04] And this is the time. -[4837.28 --> 4838.52] The night is nearly over. -[4838.62 --> 4840.60] It is time to wake up. -[4840.72 --> 4842.12] The day is coming. -[4842.24 --> 4843.34] It's time to put away -[4843.34 --> 4844.36] the deeds of darkness -[4844.36 --> 4845.10] and to put on -[4845.10 --> 4846.26] the armor of light. -[4846.42 --> 4847.40] Clothe yourselves -[4847.40 --> 4848.52] with Christ. -[4848.78 --> 4849.34] And then, -[4849.48 --> 4850.54] whether he tarries -[4850.54 --> 4851.26] another day -[4851.26 --> 4852.72] or another 2,000 years, -[4852.98 --> 4854.72] the day will still be closer -[4854.72 --> 4856.44] and the world -[4856.44 --> 4858.26] will have seen its Savior -[4858.26 --> 4861.26] because they have seen you. -[4863.84 --> 4865.36] When you put on Christ, -[4865.66 --> 4867.34] you display to the world -[4867.34 --> 4870.20] who their Savior is. -[4871.18 --> 4872.90] Understanding what time it is -[4872.90 --> 4874.16] helps us to know -[4874.16 --> 4875.86] how we are to live in the world -[4875.86 --> 4877.40] and towards what goal -[4877.40 --> 4878.30] we are moving. -[4878.68 --> 4880.24] And we live as those -[4880.24 --> 4881.98] who have Christ living in us. -[4882.06 --> 4883.48] We live in the power -[4883.48 --> 4885.02] and the victory of that truth. -[4885.02 --> 4886.74] And we live as those -[4886.74 --> 4888.30] who know what is coming. -[4888.72 --> 4889.58] We live as those -[4889.58 --> 4891.78] who know what is eternally valuable. -[4892.06 --> 4893.34] We live with imagination -[4893.34 --> 4894.72] and reflection, -[4894.94 --> 4896.60] with innovation and consistency, -[4896.98 --> 4899.28] with improvisation and tradition. -[4899.80 --> 4904.80] We live because Christ lives in us. -[4905.14 --> 4907.46] And that is when you say amen. -[4908.38 --> 4909.68] You can do better than that. -[4910.34 --> 4910.60] Amen? -[4911.02 --> 4911.56] Amen. -[4912.02 --> 4912.52] God bless. -[4912.52 --> 4914.02] Let's pray together. -[4915.02 --> 4915.52] Amen. -[4922.04 --> 4923.74] Holy, holy God, -[4924.48 --> 4927.06] open our eyes to the truth -[4927.06 --> 4930.00] of what time it is. -[4930.90 --> 4933.34] Open our eyes to the truth -[4933.34 --> 4936.72] of your nearness in Jesus Christ. -[4936.98 --> 4939.60] Open our eyes to the glory -[4939.60 --> 4941.06] and the magnitude -[4941.06 --> 4943.06] of who you are -[4943.06 --> 4944.62] and what you are doing. -[4945.02 --> 4945.94] in him -[4945.94 --> 4948.20] and in us. -[4951.20 --> 4953.46] Even as we are transformed -[4953.46 --> 4955.24] from one degree of glory -[4955.24 --> 4956.44] to another, -[4957.08 --> 4959.30] may we reveal Christ -[4959.30 --> 4960.32] to the world. -[4961.58 --> 4963.12] And so we pray, -[4963.30 --> 4963.76] Lord God, -[4964.30 --> 4965.48] help us to know -[4965.48 --> 4966.62] what time it is -[4966.62 --> 4968.62] that we might live -[4968.62 --> 4969.64] in this world -[4969.64 --> 4970.72] revealing you -[4970.72 --> 4972.90] to people in need. -[4972.90 --> 4974.22] God, -[4974.28 --> 4975.12] you have given us -[4975.12 --> 4976.90] answer to this meaning crisis -[4976.90 --> 4979.06] and it is your story. -[4979.58 --> 4980.94] And you have made your story -[4980.94 --> 4982.16] our story. -[4982.34 --> 4984.12] And so in this truth -[4984.12 --> 4985.16] we live. -[4985.36 --> 4986.68] May we live then -[4986.68 --> 4988.64] as those clothed -[4988.64 --> 4990.36] with Christ. -[4991.22 --> 4992.24] In the beauty -[4992.24 --> 4993.84] and majesty -[4993.84 --> 4995.50] of your name we pray. -[4995.50 --> 4995.66] Amen. -[4995.66 --> 4996.82] Amen. -[4996.82 --> 4996.88] Amen. -[5001.84 --> 5002.96] Now we know -[5002.96 --> 5004.64] that living -[5004.64 --> 5005.42] in the beauty -[5005.42 --> 5006.08] and majesty -[5006.08 --> 5006.92] of Christ -[5006.92 --> 5008.84] isn't always -[5008.84 --> 5010.52] the easiest task -[5010.52 --> 5011.42] and we know -[5011.42 --> 5012.44] that we need -[5012.44 --> 5013.36] to be sustained -[5013.36 --> 5014.24] for that journey -[5014.24 --> 5015.04] and so we are going -[5015.04 --> 5015.48] to come -[5015.48 --> 5016.88] to the Lord's table -[5016.88 --> 5018.04] so that -[5018.04 --> 5019.16] even as Christ -[5019.16 --> 5020.12] promises us -[5020.12 --> 5020.86] in his word -[5020.86 --> 5022.24] that he has met us here -[5022.24 --> 5023.42] and is transforming us, -[5023.42 --> 5025.34] we might take that promise -[5025.34 --> 5026.26] and taste -[5026.26 --> 5027.48] and see -[5027.48 --> 5028.70] its truth. -[5029.56 --> 5030.96] That you might take in -[5030.96 --> 5032.02] Jesus Christ -[5032.02 --> 5032.60] in the bread -[5032.60 --> 5033.62] and in the juice -[5033.62 --> 5035.30] and so be transformed -[5035.30 --> 5037.42] into his image. -[5037.58 --> 5038.78] As we come to the table -[5038.78 --> 5040.28] we have a bit of liturgy -[5040.28 --> 5040.64] together -[5040.64 --> 5041.58] that we will move through. -[5041.72 --> 5042.58] I invite you to -[5042.58 --> 5043.66] say the parts -[5043.66 --> 5044.42] for you spoken -[5044.42 --> 5045.74] on the screen behind. -[5046.40 --> 5047.66] Lift up your hearts. -[5048.40 --> 5049.38] Lift up your hearts -[5049.38 --> 5049.94] to the Lord. -[5050.44 --> 5051.60] Let us give thanks -[5051.60 --> 5052.72] to the Lord our God. -[5052.72 --> 5054.04] It is right -[5054.04 --> 5055.34] for us to give thanks. -[5055.80 --> 5056.64] Let's pray together. -[5058.16 --> 5059.10] With joy -[5059.10 --> 5060.26] we praise you -[5060.26 --> 5061.36] gracious God -[5061.36 --> 5063.04] for you have created -[5063.04 --> 5064.34] heaven and earth. -[5064.46 --> 5065.14] You have made us -[5065.14 --> 5065.88] in your image -[5065.88 --> 5066.80] and you have kept -[5066.80 --> 5067.88] covenant with us -[5067.88 --> 5069.44] even when we fell -[5069.44 --> 5070.08] into sin. -[5071.04 --> 5072.34] We give you thanks -[5072.34 --> 5073.26] Jesus Christ -[5073.26 --> 5073.70] who -[5073.70 --> 5075.26] for Jesus Christ -[5075.26 --> 5076.72] who by his life -[5076.72 --> 5077.88] death and resurrection -[5077.88 --> 5079.20] opened to us -[5079.20 --> 5079.82] the way -[5079.82 --> 5080.74] of life -[5080.74 --> 5081.66] everlasting. -[5081.66 --> 5082.70] Amen. -[5084.70 --> 5085.96] Our Lord Jesus -[5085.96 --> 5087.66] before he suffered -[5087.66 --> 5088.48] gave us -[5088.48 --> 5089.68] this memorial -[5089.68 --> 5090.98] of his -[5090.98 --> 5091.98] sacrifice -[5091.98 --> 5092.94] until he comes -[5092.94 --> 5093.28] again. -[5094.16 --> 5095.16] The Lord Jesus -[5095.16 --> 5096.86] on the night -[5096.86 --> 5097.96] that he was -[5097.96 --> 5098.40] betrayed -[5098.40 --> 5099.44] took bread -[5099.44 --> 5101.26] and when he -[5101.26 --> 5102.12] had given thanks -[5102.12 --> 5103.12] he broke it -[5103.12 --> 5103.58] and said -[5103.58 --> 5105.14] this is my body -[5105.14 --> 5106.50] which is for you. -[5106.98 --> 5107.70] Do this -[5107.70 --> 5108.48] in remembrance -[5108.48 --> 5108.62] remembrance -[5108.62 --> 5109.48] of me. -[5111.48 --> 5112.46] And in the same -[5112.46 --> 5112.86] way -[5112.86 --> 5114.10] he took the cup -[5114.10 --> 5115.10] after supper -[5115.10 --> 5115.72] saying -[5115.72 --> 5116.78] this cup -[5116.78 --> 5117.56] is the new -[5117.56 --> 5117.96] covenant -[5117.96 --> 5118.98] in my blood. -[5119.62 --> 5120.24] Do this -[5120.24 --> 5121.12] whenever you -[5121.12 --> 5121.76] drink it -[5121.76 --> 5122.56] in remembrance -[5122.56 --> 5123.90] of me. -[5124.72 --> 5125.38] For whenever -[5125.38 --> 5126.40] you eat -[5126.40 --> 5127.26] this bread -[5127.26 --> 5128.02] and drink -[5128.02 --> 5128.84] this cup -[5128.84 --> 5129.84] you proclaim -[5129.84 --> 5130.60] the Lord's -[5130.60 --> 5130.88] death -[5130.88 --> 5131.54] until -[5131.54 --> 5132.60] he comes -[5132.60 --> 5133.16] again. -[5133.16 --> 5135.14] this is the -[5135.14 --> 5135.70] mystery -[5135.70 --> 5136.54] of our -[5136.54 --> 5136.92] faith. -[5138.12 --> 5139.18] Your death -[5139.18 --> 5139.88] oh Christ -[5139.88 --> 5140.68] we proclaim -[5140.68 --> 5142.38] your resurrection -[5142.38 --> 5143.30] we affirm -[5143.30 --> 5143.98] with joy -[5143.98 --> 5145.26] your coming -[5145.26 --> 5146.12] we await -[5146.12 --> 5146.74] with hope. -[5147.20 --> 5148.64] Glory be to you -[5148.64 --> 5149.46] Lord Jesus. -[5150.62 --> 5151.56] Church family -[5151.56 --> 5151.98] the Lord -[5151.98 --> 5152.78] has prepared -[5152.78 --> 5153.66] his table -[5153.66 --> 5154.20] for all -[5154.20 --> 5154.74] who love -[5154.74 --> 5155.04] him -[5155.04 --> 5155.48] for all -[5155.48 --> 5156.40] who trust -[5156.40 --> 5156.88] in him -[5156.88 --> 5157.34] alone -[5157.34 --> 5157.82] for their -[5157.82 --> 5158.30] salvation. -[5158.30 --> 5159.50] and so -[5159.50 --> 5160.16] come to -[5160.16 --> 5160.82] this table -[5160.82 --> 5161.52] you who -[5161.52 --> 5162.22] have much -[5162.22 --> 5162.58] faith -[5162.58 --> 5163.30] and you -[5163.30 --> 5163.60] who would -[5163.60 --> 5163.94] like to -[5163.94 --> 5164.40] have more. -[5164.94 --> 5165.44] Come to -[5165.44 --> 5166.34] this table -[5166.34 --> 5167.20] you who -[5167.20 --> 5167.60] have been -[5167.60 --> 5167.98] to this -[5167.98 --> 5168.34] sacrament -[5168.34 --> 5168.74] often -[5168.74 --> 5169.26] and you -[5169.26 --> 5169.64] who have -[5169.64 --> 5170.14] not been -[5170.14 --> 5170.58] for a -[5170.58 --> 5171.12] long time. -[5171.46 --> 5171.80] Come to -[5171.80 --> 5172.26] this table -[5172.26 --> 5172.80] you who -[5172.80 --> 5173.30] have tried -[5173.30 --> 5173.84] to follow -[5173.84 --> 5174.24] Jesus -[5174.24 --> 5175.24] and you -[5175.24 --> 5175.70] who have -[5175.70 --> 5176.04] failed. -[5176.82 --> 5177.34] Come to -[5177.34 --> 5177.92] this table -[5177.92 --> 5178.90] because Christ -[5178.90 --> 5180.36] is raised. -[5180.94 --> 5181.52] Come if -[5181.52 --> 5182.16] you are here -[5182.16 --> 5182.82] or if you -[5182.82 --> 5183.48] are at home -[5183.48 --> 5184.08] online -[5184.08 --> 5185.02] joining us -[5185.02 --> 5185.48] come -[5185.48 --> 5186.18] because it -[5186.18 --> 5186.84] is Christ -[5186.84 --> 5187.64] who invites -[5187.64 --> 5188.14] us to -[5188.14 --> 5189.22] meet us -[5189.22 --> 5189.82] here. -[5190.48 --> 5190.90] The gifts -[5190.90 --> 5191.44] of God -[5191.44 --> 5192.26] for the -[5192.26 --> 5192.60] people -[5192.60 --> 5193.58] of God. -[5194.96 --> 5195.70] This morning -[5195.70 --> 5196.06] as we -[5196.06 --> 5196.48] come to -[5196.48 --> 5196.96] the table -[5196.96 --> 5197.90] we are -[5197.90 --> 5198.16] going to -[5198.16 --> 5198.48] do so -[5198.48 --> 5198.68] in a -[5198.68 --> 5198.92] little bit -[5198.92 --> 5199.12] of a -[5199.12 --> 5199.44] different -[5199.44 --> 5199.88] format -[5199.88 --> 5200.80] than we -[5200.80 --> 5201.38] have -[5201.38 --> 5201.66] in the -[5201.66 --> 5202.04] past -[5202.04 --> 5203.00] and we -[5203.00 --> 5203.06] are -[5203.06 --> 5203.24] going to -[5203.24 --> 5203.78] come up -[5203.78 --> 5204.58] using -[5204.58 --> 5205.44] the aisles -[5205.44 --> 5206.16] here -[5206.16 --> 5207.34] and at -[5207.34 --> 5207.82] the end -[5207.82 --> 5208.20] of each -[5208.20 --> 5208.50] aisle -[5208.50 --> 5208.82] will be -[5208.82 --> 5209.12] a pair -[5209.12 --> 5209.66] of elders -[5209.66 --> 5210.50] who will -[5210.50 --> 5210.84] serve -[5210.84 --> 5211.22] you the -[5211.22 --> 5211.68] elements. -[5213.06 --> 5213.72] They will -[5213.72 --> 5214.38] say as -[5214.38 --> 5214.80] you take -[5214.80 --> 5215.62] the bread -[5215.62 --> 5216.16] the body -[5216.16 --> 5216.62] of Christ -[5216.62 --> 5217.04] given for -[5217.04 --> 5217.56] you and -[5217.56 --> 5217.86] as you -[5217.86 --> 5218.24] take the -[5218.24 --> 5218.70] juice they -[5218.70 --> 5219.22] will say -[5219.22 --> 5220.14] the blood -[5220.14 --> 5220.64] of Christ -[5220.64 --> 5221.18] shed for -[5221.18 --> 5221.40] you. -[5221.82 --> 5222.18] In that -[5222.18 --> 5222.70] moment you -[5222.70 --> 5223.18] can say -[5223.18 --> 5223.98] something like -[5223.98 --> 5224.52] and also -[5224.52 --> 5225.00] for you -[5225.00 --> 5225.48] or thanks -[5225.48 --> 5225.76] be to -[5225.76 --> 5226.12] God -[5226.12 --> 5226.56] amen -[5226.56 --> 5227.32] or you -[5227.32 --> 5227.60] can say -[5227.60 --> 5227.98] nothing at -[5227.98 --> 5228.16] all. -[5228.58 --> 5228.96] It's up -[5228.96 --> 5229.28] to you. -[5229.98 --> 5230.32] And then -[5230.32 --> 5230.66] in that -[5230.66 --> 5231.16] moment you -[5231.16 --> 5232.20] can either -[5232.20 --> 5233.28] eat and -[5233.28 --> 5234.08] drink or -[5234.08 --> 5234.40] you can -[5234.40 --> 5235.06] take the -[5235.06 --> 5235.76] elements back -[5235.76 --> 5236.08] to your -[5236.08 --> 5236.64] seats if -[5236.64 --> 5237.04] you like -[5237.04 --> 5237.42] and eat -[5237.42 --> 5237.84] and drink -[5237.84 --> 5238.14] there. -[5238.74 --> 5239.18] If you -[5239.18 --> 5239.62] do eat -[5239.62 --> 5240.02] and drink -[5240.02 --> 5240.54] right there -[5240.54 --> 5241.06] there are -[5241.06 --> 5241.66] little baskets -[5241.66 --> 5242.36] on each -[5242.36 --> 5242.58] of the -[5242.58 --> 5242.86] corner -[5242.86 --> 5243.40] chairs -[5243.40 --> 5244.56] to put -[5244.56 --> 5244.98] your cups -[5244.98 --> 5245.76] in as -[5245.76 --> 5246.12] you walk -[5246.12 --> 5246.46] back. -[5247.38 --> 5247.54] And so -[5247.54 --> 5247.78] the way -[5247.78 --> 5248.04] it's going -[5248.04 --> 5248.32] to work -[5248.32 --> 5248.92] is this -[5248.92 --> 5249.42] section -[5249.42 --> 5250.56] plus like -[5250.56 --> 5251.40] a third -[5251.40 --> 5251.86] of this -[5251.86 --> 5252.30] section -[5252.30 --> 5253.10] are going -[5253.10 --> 5253.36] to come -[5253.36 --> 5253.84] down this -[5253.84 --> 5254.12] aisle. -[5254.70 --> 5255.54] The remaining -[5255.54 --> 5256.88] part of this -[5256.88 --> 5257.74] section and -[5257.74 --> 5258.62] this part -[5258.62 --> 5259.10] over here -[5259.10 --> 5259.42] you're going -[5259.42 --> 5259.68] to come -[5259.68 --> 5259.98] down the -[5259.98 --> 5260.52] middle aisle -[5260.52 --> 5261.56] and then -[5261.56 --> 5262.20] this section -[5262.20 --> 5262.72] plus the -[5262.72 --> 5263.12] third of -[5263.12 --> 5263.62] this section -[5263.62 --> 5263.96] you will -[5263.96 --> 5264.38] come down -[5264.38 --> 5264.66] here. -[5265.02 --> 5265.40] If you -[5265.40 --> 5265.84] come down -[5265.84 --> 5266.28] here you -[5266.28 --> 5266.70] will then -[5266.70 --> 5267.60] go back -[5267.60 --> 5267.90] to your -[5267.90 --> 5268.62] seats out -[5268.62 --> 5269.14] that way. -[5269.48 --> 5269.66] If you -[5269.66 --> 5270.02] come down -[5270.02 --> 5270.40] here you -[5270.40 --> 5270.64] will go -[5270.64 --> 5270.98] back to -[5270.98 --> 5271.36] your seats -[5271.36 --> 5271.76] out that -[5271.76 --> 5272.00] way. -[5272.00 --> 5272.82] And here -[5272.82 --> 5273.04] in the -[5273.04 --> 5273.38] middle if -[5273.38 --> 5273.62] you come -[5273.62 --> 5274.00] down you -[5274.00 --> 5274.34] will turn -[5274.34 --> 5274.96] around and -[5274.96 --> 5275.38] go back -[5275.38 --> 5275.74] on the -[5275.74 --> 5276.32] right side -[5276.32 --> 5276.60] of the -[5276.60 --> 5276.78] aisle. -[5276.86 --> 5277.08] So there -[5277.08 --> 5277.34] will be a -[5277.34 --> 5277.72] little bit -[5277.72 --> 5279.28] of moving -[5279.28 --> 5280.36] about but -[5280.36 --> 5280.64] we can -[5280.64 --> 5281.14] handle that -[5281.14 --> 5281.60] I think. -[5283.40 --> 5284.06] And before -[5284.06 --> 5284.66] we do that -[5284.66 --> 5284.96] we're going -[5284.96 --> 5285.44] to serve -[5285.44 --> 5286.82] the worship -[5286.82 --> 5287.32] team and -[5287.32 --> 5287.76] the elders -[5287.76 --> 5288.68] who are -[5288.68 --> 5288.88] going to -[5288.88 --> 5289.42] come forward -[5289.42 --> 5290.44] and help -[5290.44 --> 5291.12] us in that -[5291.12 --> 5291.46] service. -[5291.90 --> 5292.26] There is -[5292.26 --> 5292.70] also an -[5292.70 --> 5293.12] elder who -[5293.12 --> 5293.42] will be -[5293.42 --> 5294.18] available just -[5294.18 --> 5294.66] to make -[5294.66 --> 5295.04] sure that -[5295.04 --> 5295.58] we're moving -[5295.58 --> 5296.10] about but -[5296.10 --> 5296.66] if you are -[5296.66 --> 5297.54] unable to -[5297.54 --> 5297.94] come to -[5297.94 --> 5298.34] the front -[5298.34 --> 5298.88] but would -[5298.88 --> 5299.30] like to -[5299.30 --> 5299.80] participate -[5299.80 --> 5300.98] indicate that -[5300.98 --> 5301.28] to the -[5301.28 --> 5301.72] elder and -[5301.72 --> 5302.00] they will -[5302.00 --> 5302.56] serve you -[5302.56 --> 5303.34] in your -[5303.34 --> 5304.18] seats there -[5304.18 --> 5304.54] as well. -[5305.08 --> 5305.40] At this -[5305.40 --> 5305.74] point I'd -[5305.74 --> 5306.02] like to -[5306.02 --> 5307.08] invite the -[5307.08 --> 5307.86] serving elders -[5307.86 --> 5308.56] and the -[5308.56 --> 5309.18] worship team -[5309.18 --> 5309.56] to come -[5309.56 --> 5310.34] up that -[5310.34 --> 5310.62] they may -[5310.62 --> 5311.00] be served. -[5311.00 --> 5330.38] body of -[5330.38 --> 5330.60] Christ -[5330.60 --> 5330.98] given for -[5330.98 --> 5331.16] you -[5331.16 --> 5332.74] blood of -[5332.74 --> 5332.96] Christ -[5332.96 --> 5333.40] shed for -[5333.40 --> 5333.84] you -[5333.84 --> 5336.64] body of -[5336.64 --> 5336.86] Christ -[5336.86 --> 5337.24] given for -[5337.24 --> 5337.46] you -[5337.46 --> 5339.40] blood of -[5339.40 --> 5341.00] Christ -[5341.52 --> 5341.76] shed for -[5341.76 --> 5344.34] you -[5344.34 --> 5346.18] blood of -[5346.18 --> 5346.40] Christ -[5346.40 --> 5346.68] shed -[5346.68 --> 5346.82] for -[5346.82 --> 5347.38] you -[5347.38 --> 5348.04] glory -[5349.54 --> 5349.90] God -[5349.90 --> 5350.38] body of -[5350.38 --> 5350.48] Christ -[5350.48 --> 5350.98] given for -[5350.98 --> 5351.74] you -[5351.74 --> 5352.72] blood of -[5352.72 --> 5353.00] Christ -[5353.00 --> 5353.20] shed -[5353.20 --> 5353.32] for -[5353.32 --> 5353.84] you -[5353.84 --> 5354.86] amen -[5354.86 --> 5358.50] body of -[5358.50 --> 5358.74] Christ -[5358.74 --> 5359.12] given for -[5359.12 --> 5359.26] you -[5359.26 --> 5360.88] blood -[5360.88 --> 5361.04] of -[5361.04 --> 5361.26] Christ -[5361.26 --> 5361.50] shed -[5361.50 --> 5361.66] for -[5361.66 --> 5361.88] you -[5362.82 --> 5363.12] Amen. -[5364.36 --> 5365.80] Body of Christ him for you. -[5366.54 --> 5367.78] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[5368.78 --> 5369.16] Amen. -[5371.56 --> 5372.54] Body of Christ's -[5372.54 --> 5373.12] Pasquale is one of the things that and ages his congen Food would be in theiction of his -[5373.12 --> 5374.00] God. -[5374.02 --> 5374.28] Body of Christ's Pasquale is one of the things that is his congratulations 에� lap league -[5374.28 --> 5374.78] of Christ'sommes. -[5376.32 --> 5377.06] Body of Christ's Motion Food would be in the Gerry of His Son China. -[5378.12 --> 5379.40] Body of Christ's STEPownik Host échos. -[5381.10 --> 5382.20] Body of Christ's ehrlich Ishiè usa. -[5382.22 --> 5382.58] Body of Christ's Gim for you. -[5383.28 --> 5384.78] Blood of Christ's sed tends for you. -[5385.20 --> 5385.46] Amen. -[5387.18 --> 5388.32] Body of Christ's fuera Rocky's sobbing. -[5388.68 --> 5389.62] Body of Christ's Eve for you. -[5389.68 --> 5390.06] Body of Christ's языc for you. -[5391.88 --> 5394.04] the body of Christ -[5394.04 --> 5394.68] given for you -[5394.68 --> 5396.34] the blood of Christ -[5396.34 --> 5397.06] shed for you -[5397.06 --> 5398.76] Amen -[5398.76 --> 5400.96] the body of Christ -[5400.96 --> 5401.64] given for you -[5401.64 --> 5403.14] the blood of Christ -[5403.14 --> 5403.78] shed for you -[5403.78 --> 5404.66] Amen -[5421.88 --> 5423.88] Amen -[5451.88 --> 5453.88] Amen -[5453.88 --> 5455.88] Amen -[5455.88 --> 5457.88] Amen -[5457.88 --> 5459.88] Amen -[5459.88 --> 5461.88] Amen -[5461.88 --> 5463.88] Amen -[5463.88 --> 5465.88] Amen -[5465.88 --> 5467.88] Amen -[5467.88 --> 5469.88] No only son -[5469.88 --> 5471.88] no sin to hide -[5471.88 --> 5473.88] but you have -[5473.88 --> 5477.88] served in all your time -[5477.88 --> 5479.88] to honor God -[5479.88 --> 5484.20] upon this guilty song -[5484.20 --> 5486.46] and to be called -[5486.46 --> 5489.88] the Lamb of God -[5490.88 --> 5494.88] The gift of love -[5495.80 --> 5497.88] be crucified -[5497.88 --> 5500.88] they laughed and sworn -[5500.88 --> 5502.88] him as he died -[5502.88 --> 5505.88] the humble king -[5505.88 --> 5508.88] they named a thought -[5508.88 --> 5510.88] and sacrificed -[5510.88 --> 5513.88] the Lamb of God -[5513.88 --> 5515.88] O Lamb of God -[5515.88 --> 5518.88] sweet Lamb of God -[5518.88 --> 5523.88] I love the Holy Lamb of God -[5523.88 --> 5528.88] O wash me in his precious blood -[5528.88 --> 5530.88] my Jesus Christ -[5530.88 --> 5531.88] my Jesus Christ -[5531.88 --> 5535.88] the Lamb of God -[5535.88 --> 5539.88] I was so lost -[5539.88 --> 5541.88] I should have died -[5541.88 --> 5545.88] but you have brought me to your time -[5545.88 --> 5549.88] to be led by your stuff and rock -[5549.88 --> 5551.88] and to be called -[5551.88 --> 5552.88] the Lamb of God -[5552.88 --> 5554.88] and to be called -[5554.88 --> 5556.88] the Lamb of God -[5556.88 --> 5558.88] the Lamb of God -[5558.88 --> 5560.88] O Lamb of God -[5560.88 --> 5561.88] sweet Lamb of God -[5561.88 --> 5562.88] sweet Lamb of God -[5562.88 --> 5563.88] sweet Lamb of God -[5563.88 --> 5564.88] sweet Lamb of God -[5564.88 --> 5565.88] sweet Lamb of God -[5565.88 --> 5567.88] I love the Holy Lamb of God -[5567.88 --> 5569.88] I love the Holy Lamb of God -[5569.88 --> 5571.88] O wash me in his precious blood -[5571.88 --> 5573.88] my Jesus Christ -[5573.88 --> 5575.88] the Lamb of God -[5575.88 --> 5576.88] my Lord -[5576.88 --> 5577.88] says -[5577.88 --> 5579.88] I love the Holy Lamb of God -[5579.88 --> 5580.88] my Jesus Christ -[5580.88 --> 5582.88] the Lamb of God -[5582.88 --> 5583.88] my Lord -[5583.88 --> 5584.88] my Lord -[5584.88 --> 5585.88] by Jesus Christ -[5585.88 --> 5587.88] the Lamb of God -[5587.88 --> 5589.88] I love the Holy Lamb of God -[5589.88 --> 5591.88] O wash me -[5591.88 --> 5593.88] in his precious blood -[5593.88 --> 5595.88] my Jesus Christ -[5596.88 --> 5598.88] the Lamb of God -[5598.88 --> 5603.04] Lamb of God -[5628.88 --> 5633.62] Lamb of sorrows -[5633.62 --> 5636.04] Lamb of God -[5636.04 --> 5640.92] By His own betrayal -[5640.92 --> 5645.52] The sin of man -[5645.52 --> 5648.48] Lamb of God -[5648.48 --> 5653.72] Has given Jesus' name -[5653.72 --> 5660.92] He will refuse -[5660.92 --> 5666.44] He to mock and score -[5666.44 --> 5672.38] Bow to the Father's Lamb -[5672.38 --> 5677.90] He took the crown of gold -[5677.90 --> 5681.00] On a rugged cross -[5681.00 --> 5683.58] For salvation -[5683.58 --> 5687.04] For Your love pour out -[5687.04 --> 5689.72] Over Me -[5689.72 --> 5692.92] Lamb of soul cries out -[5692.92 --> 5694.68] Hallelujah -[5694.68 --> 5702.52] Praise and honor out to Thee -[5702.52 --> 5708.56] Send of heaven -[5708.56 --> 5710.88] God's young son -[5710.88 --> 5715.10] To purchase and redeem -[5715.10 --> 5722.60] And reconcile the very ones -[5722.60 --> 5727.24] Who nailed Him to that tree -[5727.24 --> 5729.82] Oh, my God -[5729.82 --> 5730.82] On a rugged cross -[5730.82 --> 5733.40] My salvation -[5733.40 --> 5736.70] For your love for now -[5736.70 --> 5738.96] Over Me -[5738.96 --> 5742.40] Now my soul cries out -[5742.40 --> 5743.82] Hallelujah -[5743.82 --> 5750.96] Praise and honor out to Thee -[5750.96 --> 5757.12] Now my debt is paid -[5757.12 --> 5759.94] It is paid in fall -[5759.94 --> 5762.88] By the precious blood -[5762.88 --> 5765.74] That my Jesus filled -[5765.74 --> 5768.66] Now the curse of sin -[5768.66 --> 5771.54] Has no hold on me -[5771.54 --> 5774.44] Whom the Son so sweet -[5774.44 --> 5777.20] Oh, it's free indeed -[5777.20 --> 5778.88] All my running cross -[5778.88 --> 5779.32] My salvation -[5779.32 --> 5779.96] For your love for now -[5779.96 --> 5780.26] Now my debt is paid -[5780.26 --> 5780.78] Now my debt is paid -[5780.78 --> 5781.36] Now my debt is paid -[5781.36 --> 5782.42] Now my debt is paid -[5782.42 --> 5783.04] It is paid in fall -[5783.04 --> 5785.86] By the precious blood -[5785.86 --> 5788.74] That my Jesus filled -[5788.74 --> 5791.42] Now the curse of sin -[5791.42 --> 5794.32] Has no hold on me -[5794.32 --> 5797.24] Whom the Son so sweet -[5797.24 --> 5799.94] Oh, it's free indeed -[5799.94 --> 5805.44] All thy holy ones for salvation -[5805.44 --> 5811.06] For your love poured out over me -[5811.06 --> 5816.32] All my soul cries of hallelujah -[5816.32 --> 5822.14] Praise and honor unto thee -[5822.14 --> 5831.08] See the stone is rolled away -[5831.08 --> 5836.60] Behold the empty tomb -[5836.60 --> 5842.12] Hallelujah, God keep us -[5842.12 --> 5847.02] He's risen from the grave -[5847.02 --> 5852.20] All thy prophet thrones my salvation -[5852.20 --> 5857.80] May your love poured out over me -[5857.80 --> 5862.98] All my soul cries of hallelujah -[5862.98 --> 5868.38] Praise and honor unto thee -[5868.38 --> 5874.02] Praise and honor unto thee -[5877.02 --> 5892.18] As you go, go as those clothed with Christ -[5892.18 --> 5896.26] Go as those who have been met by him in our worship together -[5896.26 --> 5899.30] Who have heard his voice in his word -[5899.30 --> 5902.96] And have now sent us out in the power of his name -[5902.96 --> 5905.12] With the equipping of the Holy Spirit -[5905.12 --> 5908.00] Go because God goes with you -[5908.00 --> 5910.26] Go with a few invitations -[5910.26 --> 5912.44] First of all to hang out at the back -[5912.44 --> 5914.10] And to fellowship together -[5914.10 --> 5915.96] Sharing how you have met God -[5915.96 --> 5917.50] Or maybe where you need God -[5917.50 --> 5919.16] To show up in your life -[5919.16 --> 5921.26] Go with an invitation for prayer -[5921.26 --> 5923.16] There will be people here at the front -[5923.16 --> 5924.44] Who have yellow name tags -[5924.44 --> 5926.04] They would love to meet you and pray with you -[5926.04 --> 5928.16] In celebration or supplication -[5928.16 --> 5930.14] In thanksgiving or in confession -[5930.14 --> 5933.40] And go also with an invitation -[5933.40 --> 5935.28] If you'd like to grab me at the back -[5935.28 --> 5936.70] To talk about either membership -[5936.70 --> 5937.88] Or profession of faith -[5937.88 --> 5938.54] Or baptism -[5938.54 --> 5940.38] Or what that might look like -[5940.38 --> 5942.26] In your story of faith -[5942.26 --> 5943.74] I'd love to meet you there -[5943.74 --> 5945.08] And then lastly -[5945.08 --> 5948.12] Go as those who for the month of April -[5948.12 --> 5949.58] Are celebrating treat tag -[5949.58 --> 5950.62] Treat tag -[5950.62 --> 5955.84] If you have no idea what that is -[5955.84 --> 5958.92] Check our social media places -[5958.92 --> 5960.06] And that will explain that -[5960.06 --> 5961.08] Or ask Linda -[5961.08 --> 5962.56] And she'll explain it to you as well -[5962.56 --> 5964.90] Go with the blessing -[5964.90 --> 5966.30] Of our good God -[5966.30 --> 5971.18] God go before you -[5971.18 --> 5971.96] To lead you -[5971.96 --> 5973.88] God go behind you -[5973.88 --> 5974.84] To protect you -[5974.84 --> 5976.46] God go beneath you -[5976.46 --> 5977.46] To support you -[5977.46 --> 5979.38] And God go beside you -[5979.38 --> 5980.50] To befriend you -[5980.50 --> 5982.82] Do not be afraid -[5982.82 --> 5984.36] Let the blessing of God -[5984.36 --> 5985.30] Come upon you today -[5985.30 --> 5987.06] Do not be afraid -[5987.06 --> 5989.52] But go in peace -[5989.52 --> 5992.26] To love and serve the Lord -[5992.26 --> 5993.66] Amen -[5993.66 --> 5998.94] Praise God -[5998.94 --> 6005.88] From whom all blessings flow -[6005.88 --> 6009.18] Praise Him -[6009.18 --> 6015.00] The creatures here below -[6015.00 --> 6026.44] Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts -[6026.44 --> 6036.66] Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost -[6036.66 --> 6037.48] Amen -[6037.48 --> 6041.82] Amen -[6041.82 --> 6042.54] Amen. -[6071.82 --> 6072.82] Amen. -[6101.82 --> 6102.82] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, April 21, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, April 21, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d5867592849167d8dfd73f721af5419aae24c6b3..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, April 21, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,127 +0,0 @@ -• Announcements for the church -• Upcoming events: youth program, treat tag, and deacons' event with Anya Adama on financial stress -• Upcoming worship session "Come Holy Spirit" on April 28th at 6pm -• Invitation to join the church family through membership or baptism -• Introduction to worship and receiving God's greeting -• Invitation to turn to others and welcome them into worship -• Reading from Psalm 108, focusing on steadfast heart and praise -• Singing of hymns and worship songs -• Repeating phrases emphasizing God's love and faithfulness -• Prayer or message with emphasis on God's presence and strength -• Praise and worship to the Lord -• Confession of sin and request for forgiveness -• Prayer for love and compassion for others -• Invitation to serve others and use gifts for God's glory -• Assurance from Isaiah chapter 55, verses 6 and 7 -• Declaration of love for Jesus and praise to Him -• Prayer and worship songs about Jesus -• Invitation to church services and a discussion on unity among Christians -• Collection of financial gifts for Open Doors Ministry, which helps persecuted or discriminated against Christians worldwide -• Discussion on the importance of showing love and kindness as Christians -• Children's time with games and activities to teach them about God's love -• Discussion about a picture or artwork -• Comparison between the picture and Christian community -• Offer of sticky candy for children who count fish on a wall after church -• Mention of bribery as a way to get obedience from children -• Introduction to prayer time, including a reading from Psalm 84 and James -• Prayer request for Amy Cron and her family due to her passing -• Discussion about the effectiveness of prayer and the power of God's love -• Praying for peace and an end to war in the world -• Asking God to protect the vulnerable, safeguard children, and convict leaders to act humbly and pursue peace -• Praying for those dealing with health concerns and seeking healing -• Requesting God's presence and restoration for those struggling with mental illness or dark nights of the soul -• Interceding for relationships in need of care, restoration, and healing -• Seeking God's guidance and leadership in the church's process of selecting new elders and deacons -• Praying for the Holy Spirit to guide and lead the congregation in following God's word. -• The book of Romans, chapter 14 -• Accepting and not judging others' faith or dietary choices -• God's acceptance of individuals regardless of their beliefs or practices -• Personal conviction and responsibility before God -• The accountability of each person to God -• A personal anecdote about preaching in different communities and cultural differences -• The speaker recounts a personal anecdote about wearing a suit to church and a donated tie -• Discussion of how cultures create rules that define belonging and exclusion -• Reference to trigger warnings and the importance of self-reflection in understanding one's own identity and faith -• Overview of Paul's message in Romans 1-11, emphasizing the majesty and magnitude of the gospel and justification by grace alone through faith in Christ -• Explanation of how Paul applies this truth to the lives of believers in chapter 12 -• Being transformed and offering oneself as a living sacrifice -• Worshiping God in everyday life -• Loving neighbors, blessing those who persecute, rejoicing with those who rejoice, mourning with those who mourn -• Understanding God's sovereignty and submission to authorities -• Christian witness through willing subject to authorities -• Applying gospel truth to particular situations, including relationships between Jewish and Gentile converts -• Clash of cultures in the Christian church -• Different expressions of faith based on cultural background and history -• Conflicts arising from incorporation or non-inclusion of historical traditions into contemporary expressions of faith -• Application of gospel truths to transform lives in a diverse community like Rome or modern churches -• The discussion is about the concept of "weak faith" in relation to Romans chapter 14 -• Paul's definition of weak faith is not necessarily related to feeble or losing trust in one's faith -• Abraham's story in Romans chapter 4 is used as an example to illustrate this point -• A person with a "weak faith" in chapter 14 refers to someone who has a different understanding or conviction than others, but still has faith -• Faith in chapter 14 -• Justification by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone -• Use of rules and regulations to ensure salvation or favor with God is irrelevant if one is saved by grace -• Holding onto rules and regulations as an expression of faith to remain faithful -• Trying to be obedient and ensure obedience by raising the boundaries higher, moving further away from what becomes not permissible. -• Recreational drug use in the past and the need to stop -• Building "fences" around life to prevent temptation -• Difficulty with social interactions due to past associations -• Realization that a prescriptive approach for others was taken -• Understanding that trusting God for salvation is different from trusting him for obedience -• Discussion of Paul's letter to the Romans and the concept of justification by faith alone -• The meaning of "disputable matters" in Greek and its implications -• Different translations of Scripture and their varying interpretations of this phrase -• Paul's encouragement to not waste time arguing over things that can be reasonably disputed -• The distinction between weak and strong believers, with the weak being those who are still maturing in their faith -• The call for movement and maturation in faith through understanding and applying the scope of the gospel -• The challenge of recognizing one's own weakness in relationships of faith and spiritual growth -• Pharisees in Jesus' day often emerged as leaders due to their rule-following impulses -• People may be influenced by passion or perceived commitment rather than actual truth -• Disputable matters: areas of disagreement among Christians on non-essential issues -• Examples of disputable matters from the New Testament: 6 examples, including 3 from the current text and 3 from other texts -• The issue of food restrictions and what constitutes defilement (e.g. eating certain foods) -• The Bible teaches that all foods are clean (Romans 14:14) and God has made nothing unclean -• Peter had a vision in Acts 10 where he saw all kinds of animals, including those previously considered unclean, descending from heaven with the voice telling him to eat -• Paul writes in Romans 14 that if someone considers something unclean, it is unclean for them -• The Sabbath day was made for man, not man for the Sabbath (Mark 2), and Jesus is Lord even of the Sabbath -• Every day can be sacred or treated as a holy day, rather than just one specific day being considered sacred (Romans 14:5) -• Discussing how some Christians were judging others based on their eating and drinking habits related to religious festivals -• Explaining that Jesus is the true reality and fulfillment of Old Testament laws, including Sabbath observance, which should be observed every day -• Describing disputable matters in the early Church, such as gathering on Sundays and drinking wine -• Discussing higher fences or boundaries being put up to protect people from sin -• Mentioning examples from the New Testament, including Paul's teachings on refusing circumcision for Titus but circumcising Timothy due to his Jewish heritage -• Early Christians discussed how to incorporate non-Jewish people into the Christian church -• Paul wrote a letter stating that one does not need to be circumcised but should avoid eating food sacrificed to idols -• Paul later clarified in 1 Corinthians 8 that idol worship is not real and eating meat sacrificed to idols is a matter of personal preference -• Paul emphasized that one should not cause others to stumble or fall into sin by their actions -• The Bible teaches that marriage and celibacy are both good options, but each person must discern what is best for them in their context -• Disputable matters like these can lead to divisions within the church if individuals insist on imposing their preferences on others -• Discussion of replacing traditional worship music with other genres (hip-hop, country, etc.) -• Reference to Paul's letter in Galatians 5 and the concept of "disputable matters" -• Importance of following one's own conviction and conscience -• Compromise and its consequences (judging others or oneself) -• The controlling principle of living for and dying for the Lord (Romans 14:8) -• Living in community and maturity through giving up personal freedoms for the faith and obedience of others -• The freedom Christ offers believers is not about doing whatever they want, but about serving one another humbly in love. -• Giving up personal freedoms for others' faith is part of serving one another. -• When interacting with people who have different opinions or convictions (such as eating meat or worship style), consider their perspective and don't push your own views if it might harm them. -• Reasons for requiring exceptions or limiting freedoms should be based on biblical teachings, not personal preferences or external influences. -• Disputable matters in the church should not be used as an excuse to ignore biblical convictions or sin. -• Discussing the concept of "disputable matters" in scripture -• The danger of using gray areas to justify sin or compromise on biblical teachings -• John Calvin's perspective on obedience and deviating from God's commands -• The importance of growing in faith, maturity, and obedience through discipleship -• The need for hard conversations, humility, and grace when navigating disputable matters -• The risk of leading others astray by stretching the definition of disputable matters too far -• The call to bring Christ to bear on all aspects of life and relationships -• Prayer for forgiveness and opening up to relationships and realities -• Recognizing the call to obedience and transformation -• Calling to be holy and live in the power of God's spirit -• Praise and worship, focusing on Jesus' name and worthiness -• Repetition of "you" as an expression of devotion and trust in God -• Blessing and protection for the journey ahead -• Letting go of fear and going in peace to love and serve the Lord -• Acknowledgment of salvation and eternal life -• Belonging to God body and soul -• Commitment to living for God in all aspects of life, including death -• Reiteration of belonging to God, with repetition emphasizing ownership and surrender \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, April 21, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, April 21, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f84457734431aeac2cb56fecffaffeaf8fe73292..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, April 21, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2425 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 4.76] He is refining, and in his timing -[4.76 --> 9.18] He's making diamonds out of dust -[9.18 --> 13.00] Making diamonds out of dust -[13.54 --> 16.94] I won't be afraid to shine -[16.94 --> 21.54] I won't be afraid to shine -[21.54 --> 25.28] I won't be afraid to shine -[25.28 --> 29.84] Cause he's making diamonds out of dust -[29.84 --> 34.68] Making diamonds out of dust -[34.68 --> 53.02] I want you as you are, not as you ought to be -[54.28 --> 57.90] Won't you lay down your guard and come to me -[57.90 --> 63.62] The shame that grips you now is crippling -[63.62 --> 68.96] It breaks my heart to see you suffering -[68.96 --> 72.46] Cause I am for you -[72.46 --> 77.68] Good morning -[77.68 --> 81.84] Welcome to worship -[81.84 --> 85.60] A special welcome if you are a guest here this morning -[85.60 --> 91.52] We are really excited to gather together in the name of Jesus and to worship him -[91.52 --> 92.88] My name is Chris -[92.88 --> 95.92] I am one of the pastors here at Emanuel Church -[95.92 --> 100.48] And it's my privilege to lead in our shared worship together this morning -[100.48 --> 103.74] Along with these others on stage who will lead us in song and in prayer -[103.74 --> 110.32] Before we begin, we have a couple announcements to put in front of you and to remind you of -[110.32 --> 113.22] And so, hear these -[113.22 --> 117.70] First of all, this evening, if you're part of our youth program here -[117.70 --> 121.36] You have 2020 at the church at 630 -[121.36 --> 123.76] If you have no idea what that is -[123.76 --> 125.00] Talk to Pastor Kevin -[125.00 --> 128.72] And he will answer your questions and get you involved -[128.72 --> 132.12] But that's for grade 8 through the end of high school -[132.12 --> 136.42] Also, the month of April is treat tag -[136.42 --> 138.26] Oh, good job -[138.26 --> 149.46] And so, we are surprising and giving small little gifts to other members of our church family here -[149.46 --> 151.60] And so, I encourage you -[151.60 --> 154.20] Some of you need to look at your church mailboxes -[154.20 --> 155.64] Because you've been tagged -[155.64 --> 157.64] And you don't normally look at your mailboxes -[157.64 --> 160.70] So, not only do you have a stack of papers and information -[160.70 --> 163.54] But there's a chocolate bar or something in there as well -[163.54 --> 165.08] So, please check that if you haven't -[165.08 --> 166.96] If you don't know what I'm talking about -[166.96 --> 169.56] You can check it out on social media for our church -[169.56 --> 171.32] And that should explain some of that -[171.32 --> 175.58] Additionally, tomorrow evening -[175.58 --> 180.68] Here, there is an event put on by our deacons -[180.68 --> 184.24] Who have asked Anya Adama to come -[184.24 --> 187.32] And to share some stories and practical tips -[187.32 --> 189.98] For navigating financial stress -[189.98 --> 192.54] And so, how do we handle these things? -[192.64 --> 194.00] What are some of the things that we can do? -[194.10 --> 195.22] Some skill sets to have -[195.22 --> 196.78] And stories that can be shared there -[196.78 --> 200.24] So, Anya is going to come and offer that -[200.24 --> 202.42] And also offer herself to you -[202.42 --> 205.06] And so, you can set up a time to meet with her -[205.06 --> 206.02] Or connect with her -[206.02 --> 207.96] If you have any questions about that -[207.96 --> 210.00] Some of the deacons are here to answer -[210.00 --> 211.66] And so, deacons, can you just raise your hands -[211.66 --> 212.48] Where you are? -[214.00 --> 215.78] Two, three, one more at the back -[215.78 --> 217.12] So, if you have any questions -[217.12 --> 218.26] Grab one of them -[218.26 --> 219.86] And they will share that with you -[219.86 --> 220.68] What time does that start? -[222.24 --> 222.60] Seven -[222.60 --> 223.90] Seven o'clock tomorrow night -[223.90 --> 227.36] Next week Sunday -[227.36 --> 229.54] So, April 28th -[229.54 --> 230.68] In the evening -[230.68 --> 232.50] We are hosting here -[232.50 --> 235.36] One of our evening worship sessions -[235.36 --> 237.26] And so, at 6pm -[237.26 --> 238.72] We are going to gather together -[238.72 --> 240.04] For a worship event -[240.04 --> 240.90] That we are calling -[240.90 --> 242.02] Come Holy Spirit -[242.02 --> 243.20] Where we are going to learn -[243.20 --> 244.74] And hear about the work of the Spirit -[244.74 --> 245.38] In our lives -[245.38 --> 246.14] And in our worship -[246.14 --> 248.70] And sing in spirit -[248.70 --> 249.80] And in truth -[249.80 --> 251.44] And so, we invite you to -[251.44 --> 253.02] Book that out in your calendar -[253.02 --> 253.82] And join us -[253.82 --> 255.46] 6pm next week -[255.46 --> 257.28] And then lastly -[257.28 --> 260.34] If you are -[260.34 --> 262.88] If you have been a guest with us -[262.88 --> 264.08] For some time -[264.08 --> 265.38] And you are wondering about membership -[265.38 --> 267.32] Or if you are at this point -[267.32 --> 268.76] In your relationship to God -[268.76 --> 269.24] And Jesus -[269.24 --> 270.32] Where you want to stand -[270.32 --> 271.72] In front of this church family -[271.72 --> 273.14] And profess that truth -[273.14 --> 274.98] And say, yes, this I believe -[274.98 --> 276.66] Or if you haven't been baptized -[276.66 --> 279.32] And would like to receive -[279.32 --> 281.44] That gift of God in grace -[281.44 --> 282.96] I encourage you to find me -[282.96 --> 283.84] After the service -[283.84 --> 285.56] I'll be at the Connect booth -[285.56 --> 287.84] And we can talk about that journey -[287.84 --> 289.32] And what that might look like -[289.32 --> 290.76] Together going forward -[290.76 --> 294.04] I think that's it for our announcements -[294.04 --> 294.98] Before we begin -[294.98 --> 297.50] And so, let's begin our worship together -[297.50 --> 299.88] By receiving the greeting of God -[299.88 --> 301.10] God is in this place -[301.10 --> 303.14] And he welcomes us into his presence -[303.14 --> 303.96] So I invite you -[303.96 --> 305.22] As you're able to stand -[305.22 --> 312.10] When we receive God's greeting -[312.10 --> 313.30] Not only is it -[313.30 --> 314.64] God greeting us -[314.64 --> 316.06] Through my words to you -[316.06 --> 317.86] But it is God greeting you -[317.86 --> 319.30] Through your words to each other -[319.30 --> 320.48] And so following -[320.48 --> 322.62] My speaking of the greeting -[322.62 --> 324.24] I invite you to turn to those around you -[324.24 --> 326.16] And welcome them into worship -[326.16 --> 327.42] Receive the greeting -[327.42 --> 328.44] From God -[328.44 --> 330.24] Grace -[330.24 --> 331.90] Mercy -[331.90 --> 333.46] Peace to you -[333.46 --> 334.94] From God our Father -[334.94 --> 336.40] From the Lord Jesus Christ -[336.40 --> 336.98] His Son -[336.98 --> 338.22] And our Savior -[338.22 --> 339.42] Through the presence -[339.42 --> 340.16] And power -[340.16 --> 341.36] Of the Holy Spirit -[341.36 --> 342.80] Amen -[342.80 --> 346.20] Good morning -[346.20 --> 346.90] Peace of Christ -[346.90 --> 348.08] Peace of Christ -[348.08 --> 348.50] Good morning -[363.46 --> 381.10] We are called to be in this place -[381.10 --> 382.68] And worship our God -[382.68 --> 384.66] With these words from Psalm 108 -[384.66 --> 385.74] My heart -[385.74 --> 386.54] My heart, O God -[386.54 --> 387.90] Is steadfast -[387.90 --> 389.98] I will sing and make music -[389.98 --> 391.32] With all my soul -[391.32 --> 392.54] Awake -[392.54 --> 393.14] Heart -[393.14 --> 394.02] And lyre -[394.02 --> 395.00] I will awaken -[395.00 --> 395.98] The dawn -[395.98 --> 397.64] I will praise you -[397.64 --> 398.08] Lord -[398.08 --> 398.94] Among the nations -[398.94 --> 400.40] I will sing -[400.40 --> 401.26] Of you -[401.26 --> 402.48] Among the peoples -[402.48 --> 403.86] For great -[403.86 --> 404.90] Is your love -[404.90 --> 406.60] Higher than the heavens -[406.60 --> 407.96] Your faithfulness -[407.96 --> 409.50] Reaches to the sky -[409.50 --> 411.10] Be exalted -[411.10 --> 412.08] O God -[412.08 --> 412.94] Above the heavens -[412.94 --> 414.76] Let your glory be -[414.76 --> 416.16] Over all the earth -[416.16 --> 417.30] Let's sing together -[417.30 --> 435.52] Thanks to the Lord -[435.52 --> 437.34] Our God and King -[437.34 --> 440.38] His love endures forever -[440.38 --> 443.28] For His purity -[443.28 --> 445.38] Is above all things -[445.38 --> 448.26] His love endures forever -[448.26 --> 452.90] Sing praise -[452.90 --> 456.50] Sing praise -[456.50 --> 459.28] With a mighty hand -[459.28 --> 461.10] And an outstretched heart -[461.10 --> 463.98] His love endures forever -[463.98 --> 467.00] For the life -[467.00 --> 468.78] That's been reborn -[468.78 --> 471.78] His love endures forever -[471.78 --> 475.36] Sing praise -[475.36 --> 478.12] Take praise -[478.12 --> 479.30] Take praise -[479.30 --> 482.00] Take praise -[482.00 --> 484.18] Take praise -[484.18 --> 487.26] Take praise -[487.26 --> 491.42] Forever God is faithful -[491.42 --> 495.50] Forever God is strong -[495.50 --> 499.28] Forever God is without -[499.28 --> 500.90] Forever -[500.90 --> 501.90] Forever -[501.90 --> 502.90] Forever -[502.90 --> 503.90] Forever -[503.90 --> 504.90] Forever -[504.90 --> 505.90] Forever -[505.90 --> 515.44] Arising to the setting sun -[515.44 --> 518.38] His love endures forever -[518.38 --> 521.42] And by the grace of God -[521.42 --> 523.36] We will carry on -[523.36 --> 526.20] His love endures forever -[526.20 --> 527.90] Sing praise -[527.90 --> 530.66] Sing praise -[530.66 --> 536.44] Sing praise -[536.44 --> 536.58] Sing praise -[536.58 --> 538.86] Sing praise -[538.98 --> 539.72] Sing praise -[539.72 --> 540.90] Sing praise -[541.56 --> 545.74] Ma'an oko'z via hear -[545.74 --> 549.68] Forever God is strong -[549.68 --> 553.90] Forever God is with us -[553.90 --> 555.14] Forever -[555.14 --> 560.98] Forever you are faithful -[560.98 --> 565.20] Forever you are strong -[565.20 --> 569.40] Forever you are with us -[569.40 --> 570.64] Forever -[570.64 --> 574.54] Forever -[575.74 --> 577.74] Forever -[577.74 --> 578.74] Forever -[578.74 --> 579.74] Forever -[579.74 --> 580.74] Forever -[580.74 --> 581.74] Forever -[581.74 --> 583.74] Forever -[583.74 --> 585.74] Forever -[585.74 --> 587.74] Forever -[587.74 --> 589.74] Forever -[589.74 --> 590.74] Forever -[590.74 --> 591.74] Forever -[591.74 --> 593.74] 又 -[593.74 --> 595.74] Happy -[595.74 --> 611.04] I am standing beneath your way -[611.04 --> 617.24] I am resting in your shelter -[617.24 --> 626.74] Your great faithfulness has given us cheer -[626.74 --> 633.24] It makes me want to sing -[633.24 --> 641.24] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[641.24 --> 648.24] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[648.24 --> 653.24] I will bless your holy name -[653.24 --> 657.24] For all my days -[657.24 --> 663.24] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[671.24 --> 685.24] I sing praises to your name, O Lord -[685.24 --> 692.24] For you daily bear my burdens -[692.24 --> 700.24] Your great faithfulness is my reward -[700.24 --> 705.24] And it makes me want to sing -[705.24 --> 712.24] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[712.24 --> 719.24] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[719.24 --> 724.24] I will bless your holy name -[724.24 --> 729.24] For all my days -[729.24 --> 734.24] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[734.24 --> 741.24] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[741.24 --> 751.24] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[751.24 --> 755.24] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[755.24 --> 756.24] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[756.24 --> 758.24] I will bless your holy name -[758.24 --> 762.24] For all my days -[762.24 --> 764.24] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[764.24 --> 794.00] Lord, thank you for your gift of life and being a God of love. -[794.68 --> 800.84] We have been made in your image, and your word reminds us to love each other as you have loved us. -[801.56 --> 806.78] But as we think over this past week, we know we have failed to follow that command. -[807.94 --> 815.10] Forgive us, Lord, when instead of loving people, we choose to love only those who are like us and are easy to love. -[816.28 --> 820.88] Forgive us when we turn away from people who look different or think differently. -[820.88 --> 824.86] We know that we cannot love others on our own. -[826.06 --> 831.42] You tell us that love lays down its life for others, and you show us that on the cross. -[831.78 --> 833.80] But we are weak and selfish. -[834.86 --> 839.82] We cannot even lay down our own preferences and rights for others, let alone our lives. -[840.60 --> 841.50] Teach us, Lord. -[841.50 --> 849.46] Fill us with your love and compassion for all people, so we have eyes to see those around us in need of love. -[850.22 --> 852.78] Give us hands and feet willing to reach out. -[853.66 --> 857.60] Stir us to invite others to use their gifts for your glory. -[858.16 --> 861.34] As you have loved us, help us to love others. -[861.34 --> 863.28] In your name we pray. -[863.96 --> 864.30] Amen. -[864.30 --> 864.48] Amen. -[891.34 --> 895.58] Change my heart, O God. -[895.58 --> 900.90] May it ever choose. -[903.36 --> 907.72] Change my heart, O God. -[910.12 --> 913.16] May I be like you. -[915.66 --> 919.78] Change my heart, O God. -[919.78 --> 949.76] Make it ever true. -[949.76 --> 979.74] Change my heart, O God. -[979.74 --> 981.74] May I be like you. -[981.74 --> 986.74] May I be like you. -[986.74 --> 993.86] Please stand with us as we read the words of assurance. -[993.86 --> 999.94] From Isaiah chapter 55, verses 6 and 7. -[999.94 --> 1000.10] -[1029.94 --> 1059.92] Thank you. -[1059.94 --> 1072.86] My Jesus, I love thee, I know thou art mine. -[1072.86 --> 1085.14] For thee all the qualities of sin I resign. -[1085.14 --> 1098.38] My gracious redeemer, my Savior, our God. -[1098.86 --> 1110.14] If ever I love thee, my Jesus is now. -[1110.14 --> 1126.32] I know thee because thou hast first ever been. -[1126.32 --> 1138.32] Then purchase and pardon on Calvary's tree. -[1138.32 --> 1151.74] I love thee, O every black gold on thy crown. -[1151.74 --> 1163.74] Here ever I love thee, my Jesus is now. -[1163.74 --> 1173.54] I love thee in life. -[1173.54 --> 1179.98] I will love thee in death. -[1179.98 --> 1192.98] And praise thee as long as thou mendest me breath. -[1192.98 --> 1206.52] And say when the death do, I scold on my brow. -[1206.52 --> 1218.52] If ever I love thee, my Jesus is now. -[1218.52 --> 1220.96] I love thee, my little boy. -[1220.96 --> 1229.32] And lamentest me lie. -[1229.32 --> 1231.64] Am I on he? -[1231.64 --> 1243.64] I'll never adore Him in heaven so proud. -[1243.64 --> 1256.64] I'll sing with the victory crown of thy crown. -[1256.64 --> 1269.64] Wherever I love thee, my Jesus is now. -[1269.64 --> 1282.64] Wherever I love thee, my Jesus is now. -[1286.64 --> 1292.64] I'll never adore Him in heaven. -[1292.64 --> 1296.64] I'll never adore Him in heaven. -[1296.64 --> 1301.64] I'll never adore Him in heaven. -[1301.64 --> 1305.64] Amen. -[1305.64 --> 1335.64] -[1335.64 --> 1365.64] -[1365.64 --> 1395.64] -[1395.64 --> 1425.64] -[1425.64 --> 1455.64] -[1455.64 --> 1457.64] Amen. -[1457.64 --> 1459.64] Amen. -[1459.64 --> 1461.64] Amen. -[1461.64 --> 1491.64] -[1491.64 --> 1493.64] Amen. -[1493.64 --> 1495.64] Amen. -[1495.64 --> 1497.64] Amen. -[1497.64 --> 1499.64] Amen. -[1499.64 --> 1501.64] Amen. -[1501.64 --> 1503.64] Amen. -[1503.64 --> 1509.64] Amen. -[1509.64 --> 1510.64] Amen. -[1510.64 --> 1512.64] Amen. -[1512.64 --> 1513.64] Amen. -[1513.64 --> 1528.64] Will thou be born, the King of kings, O God, forever we will sing. -[1528.64 --> 1542.64] Behold the Lamb, the story of redemption, waiting on His hands. -[1542.64 --> 1551.64] Jesus, you will report, the glory is yours. -[1551.64 --> 1561.64] Behold the Lamb, the story of redemption, waiting on His hands. -[1561.64 --> 1570.64] Jesus, you will reign forevermore, the victory is yours. -[1570.64 --> 1579.64] We sing your praise, endless hallelujah to your holy name. -[1579.64 --> 1587.64] Jesus, you will reign forevermore, the victory is yours. -[1587.64 --> 1593.64] You reign forevermore, the victory is yours. -[1593.64 --> 1601.64] Jesus, reign forevermore, the victory is yours. -[1601.64 --> 1603.64] Amen. -[1603.64 --> 1605.64] Amen. -[1605.64 --> 1607.64] Amen. -[1607.64 --> 1609.64] Amen. -[1609.64 --> 1611.64] Amen. -[1611.64 --> 1613.64] Amen. -[1613.64 --> 1615.64] Amen. -[1615.64 --> 1617.64] Amen. -[1617.64 --> 1619.64] Amen. -[1619.64 --> 1621.64] Amen. -[1621.64 --> 1623.64] Amen. -[1623.64 --> 1625.64] Amen. -[1625.64 --> 1626.64] Amen. -[1626.64 --> 1627.64] Amen. -[1627.64 --> 1629.64] Amen. -[1629.64 --> 1634.64] Amen. -[1634.64 --> 1635.64] Amen. -[1635.64 --> 1637.64] Yes alright. -[1637.64 --> 1638.64] Amen. -[1638.64 --> 1639.64] Amen. -[1639.64 --> 1640.64] Hello belongs! -[1640.64 --> 1650.64] Yes... -[1650.64 --> 1652.64] that I came in the morning there at 7 the morning there... -[1652.64 --> 1656.06] member or whatever it is. She's got lots of little sort of tips and things to think about. So -[1656.06 --> 1659.56] hopefully we'll see a bunch of us here tomorrow night. And we've invited a bunch of our sister -[1659.56 --> 1663.68] churches and even some of the neighboring churches so we can hopefully facilitate kind of -[1663.68 --> 1669.48] probably a common problem or thing that a lot of us face at different times in life. So anyway, -[1669.70 --> 1675.04] we are also going to take some time in the service now to give of the gifts God has given us -[1675.04 --> 1681.28] financially. And today's offering is for Open Doors Ministry. It's an organization that has 70 years -[1681.28 --> 1687.76] of working all over the world helping persecuted or discriminated against Christians, whether that's -[1687.76 --> 1692.96] getting Bibles through borders or facilitating prayer ministries or small group ministries. -[1693.52 --> 1698.36] It's a powerful organization. So thank you for giving of your gifts this morning. -[1711.28 --> 1731.62] We are one in the Spirit. We are one in the Lord. We are one in the Spirit. We are one in the Lord. -[1731.62 --> 1738.06] And we pray that all unity may one day be restored. -[1738.06 --> 1747.60] We are one in the Lord. We are one in the Lord. And they'll know we are Christians by our love. By our love. -[1747.60 --> 1753.48] Yes, they'll know we are Christians by our love. -[1756.48 --> 1766.56] We will walk with each other. We will walk hand in hand. We will walk with each other. -[1766.56 --> 1777.36] We will walk hand in hand and together we'll spread the news that God is in our land. -[1778.50 --> 1784.96] And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love. -[1785.20 --> 1790.18] Yes, they'll know we are Christians by our love. -[1790.18 --> 1800.32] We will work with each other, we will work side by side. -[1800.32 --> 1806.36] We will work with each other, we will work side by side. -[1806.54 --> 1812.90] And we'll mourn each man's dignity and sing each man's pride. -[1812.90 --> 1821.58] And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love. -[1821.70 --> 1826.88] Yes, they'll know we are Christians by our love. -[1830.60 --> 1836.26] A praise to the Father from whom all things come. -[1836.26 --> 1842.30] And a praise to Christ Jesus, His only Son. -[1842.68 --> 1848.68] And a praise to the Spirit who makes us one. -[1851.32 --> 1857.62] And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love. -[1857.62 --> 1863.62] Yes, they'll know we are Christians by our love. -[1866.26 --> 1877.20] Good morning. -[1877.30 --> 1881.34] I'd like to call the kids up front here, age 3 to grade 4. -[1881.44 --> 1882.22] Please come on up. -[1882.22 --> 1900.04] I'm going to say good morning and then you're going to say good morning back real loud, right? -[1900.64 --> 1901.50] Good morning. -[1901.78 --> 1902.94] Good morning. -[1904.54 --> 1905.22] Nice work. -[1905.22 --> 1905.78] Nice work. -[1906.16 --> 1908.74] Hey, I got a question for you. -[1908.74 --> 1912.50] Does anybody know of anything that's really, really sticky? -[1913.96 --> 1914.46] Yes. -[1915.46 --> 1916.80] Spider webs are sticky. -[1917.18 --> 1917.38] Yeah. -[1918.82 --> 1919.50] What's that? -[1920.32 --> 1921.68] Some slime. -[1922.60 --> 1923.10] How about you? -[1924.22 --> 1925.12] Sticky hands. -[1925.22 --> 1926.76] I saw some of those on the internet. -[1926.94 --> 1928.72] I was thinking of those when we were kids too. -[1928.98 --> 1929.36] Yes. -[1930.26 --> 1930.82] Jelly. -[1930.82 --> 1933.72] Sticky tack. -[1934.18 --> 1939.34] Has anybody here, maybe more of the girls, have you ever gotten any gum stuck in your hair? -[1940.14 --> 1941.56] How hard is that to get out? -[1942.58 --> 1943.30] Really hard. -[1943.40 --> 1946.60] How about gum stuck on the bottom of your shoe? -[1947.30 --> 1948.06] Ever had that? -[1948.40 --> 1950.12] And you're carrying it around with you everywhere? -[1950.80 --> 1953.36] You walk in the house with it and mom's like, I don't think so. -[1953.60 --> 1954.26] You're out of here. -[1954.26 --> 1959.18] Well, we're talking today a little bit about God's love, how sticky it is. -[1959.90 --> 1962.78] How you can't get away from it because he loves you so much. -[1963.78 --> 1967.18] Has anybody had a chance to look at this artwork on the wall behind us? -[1968.10 --> 1969.06] Isn't that pretty cool? -[1970.52 --> 1972.36] Mrs. DeVries put that up for us. -[1972.40 --> 1973.14] It's pretty awesome. -[1973.30 --> 1973.76] What do you think? -[1973.82 --> 1976.12] Anybody got any ideas what that's about up front there? -[1976.38 --> 1977.20] Anybody got an idea? -[1978.30 --> 1978.74] Yeah? -[1981.40 --> 1982.72] Fish sticking together. -[1982.84 --> 1983.34] That's good. -[1983.34 --> 1985.64] That's like Christians all sticking together. -[1985.74 --> 1986.18] That's good. -[1986.26 --> 1986.44] Yeah. -[1987.24 --> 1987.90] Do you know? -[1989.88 --> 1991.64] What do you, do you got an idea what that's about? -[1994.74 --> 1996.22] A whole school of fish. -[1997.10 --> 2003.40] This picture up, this artwork up front here is about God, Jesus died on the cross, and -[2003.40 --> 2007.88] this is us after Jesus died on the cross as Christians, and we're all stuck together by -[2007.88 --> 2012.44] God's love, and we can go out into the world knowing that God loves us so much. -[2012.44 --> 2014.48] So I got a question for you. -[2014.54 --> 2016.14] I got a thing for you guys. -[2016.24 --> 2018.70] I got a whole bunch of sticky candy in the back. -[2019.46 --> 2023.32] If one of you guys after church, if any of you can come after church and come to me and -[2023.32 --> 2027.26] tell me how many fish are on this wall after church, I'll give you a candy. -[2028.22 --> 2028.44] Okay? -[2028.90 --> 2032.32] Do you think we should offer that to the adults too, or should they be paying attention to -[2032.32 --> 2033.44] Pastor Chris this morning? -[2033.44 --> 2034.86] All right. -[2035.54 --> 2036.58] Can you guys stand up? -[2036.60 --> 2037.42] We're going to do the blessing. -[2042.30 --> 2042.66] Ready? -[2042.66 --> 2045.60] Lord, be with you. -[2045.92 --> 2047.50] And also with you. -[2047.50 --> 2048.44] Amen. -[2065.04 --> 2068.72] Nothing like a little bribery to get obedience from children, right? -[2068.72 --> 2068.80] Amen. -[2071.76 --> 2079.84] It's my privilege this morning to lead in prayer, and that's because the elder who is scheduled -[2079.84 --> 2085.48] to pray is at home unwell, and so we will add him to our prayer list this morning. -[2086.30 --> 2094.66] Before we pray, I wanted to maybe situate us in a prayerful context and read to you from -[2094.66 --> 2100.22] Psalm 84, verse 8, which says, Hear my prayer, Lord God Almighty. -[2100.78 --> 2103.50] Listen to me, God of Jacob. -[2104.50 --> 2113.00] And then in James, we read that the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. -[2114.26 --> 2121.04] And as Christians, we believe that the Lord Jesus has made us each righteous because he's -[2121.04 --> 2122.66] granted us his righteousness. -[2122.66 --> 2128.20] And so our prayers are powerful and effective, not because I've been ordained by the church, -[2128.30 --> 2133.26] not because I'm holier than any of y'all out there, but because we have been clothed -[2133.26 --> 2134.86] with Christ Jesus. -[2135.88 --> 2140.88] And so together we pray powerful and effective prayers. -[2140.88 --> 2149.24] And so as we come in our prayer together, I want us to come both with the attitude that -[2149.24 --> 2156.32] cries out in prayer, but also the confidence that the Lord hears our prayer and he acts in -[2156.32 --> 2160.12] the world according to his grace by our prayers. -[2161.08 --> 2165.74] Before we pray together, just one announcement. -[2165.74 --> 2169.16] This is a sad one that has come to us this morning. -[2169.62 --> 2175.02] In the past while, we have been praying on and off again for Amy Cron, who had been dealing -[2175.02 --> 2175.98] with lung cancer. -[2177.88 --> 2183.10] Up until almost two weeks ago, she seemed to be doing well and then took a very serious and -[2183.10 --> 2183.78] quick turn. -[2183.78 --> 2191.08] And for the last couple of days had been in intense pain and was in a drug-induced coma -[2191.08 --> 2192.42] as a result of that. -[2192.62 --> 2196.52] Well, on Friday evening, she passed away as a result of that. -[2196.60 --> 2202.78] And so we're going to pray for the Cron family, for the kids and for the extended family and -[2202.78 --> 2208.70] for the communities of people that have surrounded Amy in this time, that remember her and mourn for -[2208.70 --> 2209.30] her loss. -[2209.50 --> 2215.96] And so as we come in our prayers, and as I mentioned that, you are aware of why we're -[2215.96 --> 2216.40] praying that. -[2216.96 --> 2223.20] Additionally, this past week, we had the opportunity, a small group of us, to gather on Wednesday -[2223.20 --> 2225.52] night in a prayer service together. -[2227.06 --> 2233.54] And so some of the things that I mention, either explicitly or generally, will be shaped -[2233.54 --> 2235.62] by that time that we spent together. -[2235.62 --> 2243.68] As we prayed for an hour and 15 minutes or so together, and as other people were leading -[2243.68 --> 2250.62] us in those prayers, each time someone prayed for a thing or a person by name, the Lord laid -[2250.62 --> 2256.82] on my heart, you know, three or four or five other people who are in that same situation, -[2257.32 --> 2258.82] who are walking through that same thing. -[2259.44 --> 2264.38] And so there's just a lot of stuff, right, that we can bring to God in prayer together. -[2264.38 --> 2269.56] And so with all of that on our hearts and in our minds, I invite you to join me in our -[2269.56 --> 2270.46] church family prayer. -[2270.62 --> 2271.06] Let's pray. -[2278.80 --> 2282.88] Hear our prayer, O Lord God. -[2284.66 --> 2289.22] Hear our prayer, God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. -[2289.22 --> 2296.24] Hear our prayer, God of Samuel, David, and Solomon. -[2299.24 --> 2305.36] Hear our prayer, God of Isaiah, Amos, and Micah. -[2306.98 --> 2313.24] Hear our prayer, God of Peter, Paul, and Mary. -[2313.24 --> 2322.34] Hear our prayer, O God, that we might come into your presence by these words, that you -[2322.34 --> 2328.62] might draw us to yourself, that you might in the power of your spirit be transforming us -[2328.62 --> 2337.02] into the image of your Son and our Savior, Jesus Christ, so that these words may be powerful -[2337.02 --> 2343.98] and effective, so that this moment might be a means by which you act in the world. -[2346.76 --> 2353.06] Because, Holy Father, as we look out at the world, we see a world in need. -[2353.06 --> 2361.94] We see nations and communities at war against each other, and so we ask, Lord God, bring -[2361.94 --> 2362.82] peace. -[2362.82 --> 2371.48] We pray, Lord God, for tensions in the Middle East, rising in Iran and Syria and Israel. -[2372.00 --> 2378.76] We pray, Lord God, for these communities that are affected by war, by the decisions of their -[2378.76 --> 2384.90] leaders, by the work of terrorists, and by the responses of nations and armies. -[2385.18 --> 2388.34] And we pray, Lord God, protect the vulnerable. -[2388.34 --> 2395.88] We pray, Lord God, safeguard the children. -[2399.22 --> 2406.80] And we pray, Lord God, convict those who make decisions not to act out of pride or out of -[2406.80 --> 2411.64] fear, but to act humbly and to pursue peace. -[2411.64 --> 2422.84] God, we pray for all involved in these decision processes, not only in places of conflict, but -[2422.84 --> 2431.94] in the countries that bolster or challenge those conflicts, asking as well that you would bring -[2431.94 --> 2433.04] peace. -[2433.04 --> 2445.36] So, Lord God, we join our hearts with Christians around the world, asking that you would protect -[2445.36 --> 2454.84] those most in need, and that you would save those who cry out for your provision. -[2454.84 --> 2465.56] Holy God, as we look around the world and see needs for your action, we look also in our -[2465.56 --> 2469.86] own life and in our own community, and we know that we need you. -[2471.32 --> 2479.16] This morning, we pray for the Kron family, who is simultaneously in this place of mourning, -[2479.16 --> 2486.54] mourning the loss of a wife and of a mother and of a friend, and also thankful that her suffering -[2486.54 --> 2487.10] has ended. -[2489.62 --> 2497.58] And in this strange oscillation of thankfulness and tearfulness, Lord God, we pray that they -[2497.58 --> 2500.94] would experience your presence and your peace. -[2500.94 --> 2510.30] For all those, Lord God, who are dealing with health concerns, who are crying out for healing, -[2510.50 --> 2512.26] we pray for your hand upon them. -[2513.72 --> 2519.24] And whether that healing comes through the ordinary means of medicine or through the miraculous -[2519.24 --> 2526.28] means of moving by your Holy Spirit, we know that all of them are, in fact, brought about -[2526.28 --> 2528.46] by your providential hand. -[2528.46 --> 2539.80] And so we pray that we would rest in the assurance that you are with us and that you are able to -[2539.80 --> 2541.02] bring healing. -[2543.14 --> 2551.10] And so, God, for those who are crying out for wholeness, we ask for your presence. -[2551.76 --> 2558.44] For those who are crying out for restoration, we ask, Lord God, that you would grant us, -[2558.46 --> 2559.70] what they are in need of. -[2564.48 --> 2570.12] And Lord God, for those in those places, for those journeying through health concerns or -[2570.12 --> 2576.76] through dark nights of the soul, for those who are crying out in the agony of mental illness, -[2576.76 --> 2585.64] we pray, Lord God, we pray that if we cannot see you, if we do not see you, that we would see your church. -[2587.58 --> 2594.44] That our brothers and sisters here would surround us and that in their surrounding us, we might know your nearness. -[2594.44 --> 2606.64] We pray, holy God, for those who are in ongoing health treatments and concerns. -[2607.80 --> 2610.64] Restore them and give them peace. -[2610.64 --> 2611.88] We pray for those who are in need of care. -[2611.88 --> 2612.38] We pray for those who are in need of care. -[2612.38 --> 2616.00] We pray for the families who carry the burdens of extra responsibilities -[2616.00 --> 2620.04] and for the children who wonder, will mom ever be well again? -[2622.66 --> 2627.78] We pray, Lord God, that you would move in power. -[2627.78 --> 2638.10] Holy God, we pray as well for the relationships in our midst, the relationships that we are celebrating, -[2638.32 --> 2645.34] be them anniversaries or birthdays, trusting, Lord God, that your hand of goodness is upon them -[2645.34 --> 2649.58] and we thank you for the testimonies of faithfulness to each other. -[2649.58 --> 2658.92] And we pray for those relationships that are strained, that are failing, that have gone past the point of failing and are now broken. -[2659.18 --> 2665.16] We pray, Lord God, for the people involved who have walked away from loved ones. -[2667.04 --> 2677.36] We pray for soft hearts, for gentle words, and for humility to one another. -[2679.58 --> 2687.00] God, we pray that in all of these things, your grace and mercy might abound. -[2688.56 --> 2693.88] That in all of these things, we might lean heavily on your provision and your word. -[2697.02 --> 2703.86] Holy Father, we pray for the process of finding new elders and deacons in this church. -[2704.54 --> 2708.42] We thank you for those who have allowed their name to stand -[2708.42 --> 2713.88] and for the process that is now in place to move forward in that. -[2714.70 --> 2720.06] We pray, Lord God, that you would continue by your spirit to lead and guide us. -[2720.54 --> 2722.94] We thank you for the ways that we have seen that leading -[2722.94 --> 2729.32] and have followed your guidance in these past days and years and decades. -[2729.32 --> 2734.56] And we trust going forward that we would follow after you in the same. -[2737.04 --> 2739.74] Lastly, Lord God, now as we turn to your word, -[2739.90 --> 2745.70] we pray that you would open the eyes of our heart to hear your voice, Lord Jesus. -[2745.70 --> 2752.90] And we pray that you would take these words and plant them deep in our hearts -[2752.90 --> 2759.40] that they might grow and produce a fruit of faithfulness 30, 60, and 100 fold -[2759.40 --> 2761.90] in us and from us today. -[2763.02 --> 2766.20] We pray this, Lord, in your most holy name. -[2767.10 --> 2767.46] Amen. -[2767.46 --> 2767.56] Amen. -[2767.56 --> 2767.60] Amen. -[2767.60 --> 2767.62] Amen. -[2767.62 --> 2767.64] Amen. -[2767.64 --> 2767.66] Amen. -[2775.70 --> 2775.90] Amen. -[2775.90 --> 2776.22] Amen. -[2776.22 --> 2776.50] Amen. -[2788.14 --> 2788.20] Amen. -[2788.20 --> 2798.86] We're going to jump into the book of Romans again, continuing in the book in chapter 14. -[2798.86 --> 2807.74] I'm going to start by reading together from verse 1 through 12 of chapter 14. -[2809.14 --> 2814.52] And this will then ground and direct our discussion for the rest of our time. -[2816.64 --> 2818.92] Hear these words from God. -[2820.54 --> 2827.66] Accept the one whose faith is weak without quarreling over disputable matters. -[2828.86 --> 2836.34] One person's faith allows them to eat anything, but another whose faith is weak eats only vegetables. -[2837.78 --> 2842.86] The one who eats everything must not treat with contempt the one who does not, -[2843.12 --> 2849.72] and the one who does not eat everything must not judge the one who does, for God has accepted them. -[2850.98 --> 2854.14] Who are you to judge someone else's servant? -[2854.14 --> 2862.74] To their own master, servants stand or fall, and they will stand, for the Lord is able to make them stand. -[2862.74 --> 2867.12] One person considers one day more sacred than another. -[2867.52 --> 2869.42] Another considers every day alike. -[2869.84 --> 2873.36] Each of them should be fully convinced in their own minds. -[2874.36 --> 2877.84] Whoever regards one day as special does so to the Lord, -[2878.16 --> 2882.36] and whoever eats meat does so to the Lord, for they give thanks to God. -[2882.66 --> 2886.70] And whoever abstains does so to the Lord and give thanks to God. -[2886.70 --> 2892.38] For none of us lives for ourselves alone, and none of us dies for ourselves alone. -[2892.92 --> 2896.80] If we live, we live for the Lord, and if we die, we die for the Lord. -[2897.24 --> 2901.04] So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. -[2902.04 --> 2906.48] For this very reason, Christ died and returned to life, -[2906.62 --> 2911.52] so that he might be the Lord of both the dead and the living. -[2911.52 --> 2917.60] You then, why do you judge your brother or sister, or why do you treat them with contempt? -[2917.90 --> 2920.60] For we all stand before God's judgment seat. -[2920.92 --> 2921.80] As it is written, -[2922.38 --> 2924.52] As surely as I live, says the Lord, -[2924.86 --> 2927.06] every knee will bow before me, -[2927.40 --> 2929.64] every tongue will acknowledge God. -[2930.32 --> 2935.94] So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God. -[2936.50 --> 2937.84] This is the word of the Lord. -[2937.84 --> 2937.90] Amen. -[2941.52 --> 2946.40] When I was in seminary, -[2947.40 --> 2952.92] one of the ways that I would sort of supplement our income, -[2953.14 --> 2960.32] providing a little bit of disposable income for Rachel and I to go out on dates or have fun together, -[2960.74 --> 2964.30] would be to preach in different communities and different places. -[2964.30 --> 2968.14] Now, the seminary I went to is in Grand Rapids, Michigan, -[2968.66 --> 2975.48] which is a pretty major urban center in the Midwest, although not a metropolis. -[2977.22 --> 2983.24] But it is one of those places in the Midwest that is immediately surrounded by what you would consider to be -[2983.24 --> 2987.26] stereotypical Midwestern kind of living and culture. -[2987.26 --> 2992.22] So you've got the more urban and maybe progressive area of Grand Rapids, -[2992.28 --> 2998.26] and then the more rural and definitely conservative areas around Grand Rapids. -[2998.26 --> 3002.02] And because those churches were generally smaller, -[3002.28 --> 3005.60] they were the ones who needed pulpit supply and who needed preaching more often. -[3006.52 --> 3009.86] And so, after my first year of seminary, -[3009.96 --> 3011.90] I spent basically the next two years, -[3012.20 --> 3015.44] two or three of the four Sundays of a month, -[3015.84 --> 3017.22] driving somewhere and preaching, -[3017.68 --> 3018.56] if not in the morning, -[3018.70 --> 3021.96] then for sure at these churches in their afternoon services. -[3021.96 --> 3025.94] Now, when I would go to these churches, -[3026.22 --> 3028.12] understanding a little bit about the culture, -[3028.64 --> 3032.30] I would put on my suit and my tie, -[3033.22 --> 3036.44] and I would go and I would show up to preach. -[3036.56 --> 3037.34] And I will never forget, -[3037.46 --> 3043.04] there was one Sunday I showed up at a small little church just outside of Grand Rapids, -[3043.04 --> 3047.50] and this little old Dutch lady came up to me and said, -[3047.50 --> 3052.32] oh, it is so good to see the domine wearing a suit. -[3053.74 --> 3054.88] If you are unaware, -[3055.22 --> 3059.88] domine is the word for minister in Dutch culture, -[3059.88 --> 3061.92] and it's kind of become a bit of a meme. -[3064.74 --> 3065.64] And then she said, -[3066.06 --> 3070.92] so many of you seminary kids come wearing just casual clothes. -[3071.96 --> 3073.68] Now, if she could only see me now. -[3073.68 --> 3078.80] Point is, -[3078.94 --> 3080.34] it mattered for her -[3080.34 --> 3082.56] what the pastor wore. -[3083.36 --> 3086.58] Now, I know that I'm standing on the line for some of you -[3086.58 --> 3088.42] that it matters for you as well -[3088.42 --> 3091.18] what the pastor wears or what you wear to church, -[3091.24 --> 3092.62] and we'll come back to that. -[3093.46 --> 3094.32] But for her, -[3094.72 --> 3095.90] it was a point. -[3096.70 --> 3098.48] And to the point where -[3098.48 --> 3100.68] she required it of the people -[3100.68 --> 3102.78] in front of her in order for her to hear -[3102.78 --> 3104.80] the word of God from that person. -[3106.32 --> 3107.66] Now, I understood that. -[3108.00 --> 3109.52] I also realized, -[3109.66 --> 3110.88] looking back on that moment, -[3111.00 --> 3112.54] that if she had only knew -[3112.54 --> 3114.24] that I had cobbled together this suit, -[3114.28 --> 3115.78] it was the suit I got married in. -[3115.82 --> 3118.04] It was probably a size or three too big. -[3118.60 --> 3120.02] The tie that I was wearing -[3120.02 --> 3122.70] was from the clothing shelter. -[3123.02 --> 3124.86] We were part of a food bank system, -[3125.00 --> 3127.08] and we got ties that other people had donated. -[3127.66 --> 3129.52] Someone probably died in that tie, -[3129.62 --> 3131.20] but no, it was my fancy tie. -[3131.20 --> 3133.12] There I was, doing my best. -[3136.42 --> 3138.06] Here's what happens, right? -[3139.12 --> 3141.22] Churches create cultures -[3141.22 --> 3143.30] about these kinds of things, -[3143.30 --> 3145.82] and then cultures create rules -[3145.82 --> 3148.38] to instantiate those kinds of things, -[3148.50 --> 3150.68] and then rules create boundaries -[3150.68 --> 3152.74] that define whether or not -[3152.74 --> 3154.40] you are in or out -[3154.40 --> 3156.26] or belong to who we are. -[3156.26 --> 3160.80] That's what we're talking about this morning. -[3161.96 --> 3162.86] And so, trigger warning, -[3163.56 --> 3165.72] some of you are going to be like, -[3165.78 --> 3166.86] ah, is he talking about me? -[3167.38 --> 3169.18] And others of you are going to be like, -[3169.34 --> 3170.78] oh yeah, he's talking about them. -[3171.54 --> 3172.34] And if that's you, -[3172.40 --> 3173.46] I want you to invert it. -[3173.94 --> 3175.50] Because if you think I'm talking about someone else, -[3175.56 --> 3176.56] no, I'm actually talking about you. -[3177.42 --> 3178.72] And if you think I'm talking about you, -[3178.78 --> 3180.34] I'm probably talking about someone else. -[3180.34 --> 3182.58] But you need to hear, -[3183.04 --> 3183.94] and you need to discern. -[3185.18 --> 3186.52] Here's what I hope we'll see -[3186.52 --> 3189.90] as we dig into this text for us, -[3190.04 --> 3191.36] from Romans 14. -[3192.34 --> 3194.52] That living for the Lord -[3194.52 --> 3198.38] requires us to mature in our faith, -[3198.94 --> 3201.32] and then to come alongside those -[3201.32 --> 3204.28] who are maturing where they are at, -[3204.28 --> 3208.24] so that we might grow in faith together. -[3209.84 --> 3211.10] Now, I'm very mindful -[3211.10 --> 3212.76] in the way that that sentence reads -[3212.76 --> 3215.34] that we haven't decided anything yet -[3215.34 --> 3216.80] about the kind of clothes you wear to church. -[3218.32 --> 3219.22] That's intentional. -[3220.48 --> 3221.32] Follow along. -[3224.00 --> 3227.12] So, in Romans chapter 1 through 11, -[3227.46 --> 3230.04] where we spent over a year together, -[3230.16 --> 3232.64] Paul is explaining for us -[3232.64 --> 3234.60] the majesty and the magnitude -[3234.60 --> 3236.04] of the gospel -[3236.04 --> 3238.06] that is summarized -[3238.06 --> 3239.82] and that we are justified, -[3240.20 --> 3240.96] we are received, -[3241.26 --> 3242.98] we are made right with God -[3242.98 --> 3244.06] by grace alone, -[3244.24 --> 3245.24] through faith alone, -[3245.58 --> 3246.74] in Christ alone. -[3247.80 --> 3250.00] Paul grounds our need -[3250.00 --> 3251.96] for grace and the gospel -[3251.96 --> 3252.92] in the rebellion -[3252.92 --> 3255.38] of our first parents, -[3255.52 --> 3256.24] Adam and Eve, -[3256.34 --> 3256.92] in the garden. -[3257.28 --> 3258.66] They rebelled against God, -[3258.76 --> 3259.76] and in the consequence -[3259.76 --> 3260.82] and the reality -[3260.82 --> 3261.56] that is now -[3261.56 --> 3263.32] sin in the world for us. -[3263.42 --> 3265.26] He clearly spells this out. -[3266.00 --> 3266.76] He shows us -[3266.76 --> 3268.38] how Christ is the only true -[3268.38 --> 3269.42] and better sacrifice -[3269.42 --> 3271.20] who has borne the wrath of God -[3271.20 --> 3272.04] for sin -[3272.04 --> 3273.60] and has set us free -[3273.60 --> 3275.26] from the tyranny of the devil. -[3275.40 --> 3276.08] He talks about -[3276.08 --> 3277.54] how we are loved of God -[3277.54 --> 3278.42] so much so -[3278.42 --> 3279.94] that we can call him Father, -[3280.70 --> 3280.82] right, -[3280.84 --> 3281.60] how there's nothing -[3281.60 --> 3282.84] that can separate us -[3282.84 --> 3283.96] from this love. -[3284.12 --> 3285.24] And then he spends -[3285.24 --> 3286.18] three chapters -[3286.18 --> 3287.94] narrowing that discussion -[3287.94 --> 3288.94] of God's grace -[3288.94 --> 3289.96] and God's sovereignty -[3289.96 --> 3291.34] to the people of Israel -[3291.34 --> 3293.10] and how he relates to them. -[3293.70 --> 3295.06] And then in chapter 12, -[3295.60 --> 3297.64] he starts applying -[3297.64 --> 3299.56] the truth of this gospel, -[3300.36 --> 3301.12] that we are justified -[3301.12 --> 3302.00] by grace alone, -[3302.10 --> 3302.78] through faith alone, -[3302.84 --> 3303.66] in Christ alone, -[3303.78 --> 3305.72] to the lives of those -[3305.72 --> 3307.30] who have been transformed by it. -[3308.12 --> 3309.50] And so he shifts, right? -[3309.54 --> 3309.74] He says, -[3309.82 --> 3311.58] this now is how you should live -[3311.58 --> 3312.74] in response -[3312.74 --> 3313.78] and in gratitude -[3313.78 --> 3315.42] to what God has done. -[3315.42 --> 3316.84] And so here, -[3316.98 --> 3317.60] we talked about -[3317.60 --> 3318.58] being transformed, -[3318.80 --> 3319.88] about offering ourselves -[3319.88 --> 3321.72] as living sacrifices, -[3321.72 --> 3322.96] about worshiping God -[3322.96 --> 3323.62] in the everyday -[3323.62 --> 3325.32] of our lives. -[3325.40 --> 3325.58] Here, -[3325.66 --> 3326.30] we talked about -[3326.30 --> 3327.80] loving our neighbors -[3327.80 --> 3329.00] and blessing those -[3329.00 --> 3330.22] who persecute you, -[3330.58 --> 3331.86] rejoicing with those -[3331.86 --> 3332.44] who rejoice -[3332.44 --> 3333.68] and mourning with those -[3333.68 --> 3334.34] who mourn, -[3334.56 --> 3335.84] about living in harmony -[3335.84 --> 3336.72] with everyone. -[3337.98 --> 3338.78] The application -[3338.78 --> 3340.90] of this gospel truth -[3340.90 --> 3341.78] is seen -[3341.78 --> 3343.20] in the idea -[3343.20 --> 3344.40] of God's sovereignty -[3344.40 --> 3346.22] over all that is -[3346.22 --> 3346.82] in creation, -[3346.96 --> 3347.74] but then also -[3347.74 --> 3348.90] in God placing -[3348.90 --> 3349.92] certain other -[3349.92 --> 3351.32] sovereign authorities -[3351.32 --> 3353.44] in the created order -[3353.44 --> 3354.50] that we are subject to. -[3355.42 --> 3356.02] And then, -[3356.16 --> 3357.88] part of our Christian witness, -[3358.18 --> 3358.40] right, -[3358.46 --> 3359.50] is the manner -[3359.50 --> 3360.98] by which we willingly -[3360.98 --> 3362.08] subject ourselves -[3362.08 --> 3363.52] to these authorities. -[3364.76 --> 3365.06] Paul said, -[3365.26 --> 3365.98] give to everyone -[3365.98 --> 3366.68] what you owe. -[3366.82 --> 3367.44] If taxes, -[3367.58 --> 3368.12] pay taxes. -[3368.28 --> 3368.80] If revenue, -[3368.96 --> 3369.42] then revenue. -[3369.58 --> 3370.08] If respect, -[3370.20 --> 3370.62] then respect. -[3370.80 --> 3371.26] If honor, -[3371.38 --> 3372.12] then honor. -[3372.24 --> 3372.54] And then, -[3372.54 --> 3373.82] this is what it means -[3373.82 --> 3375.68] to love our neighbor. -[3376.88 --> 3377.00] Right, -[3377.06 --> 3378.74] understanding all of this -[3378.74 --> 3379.52] makes sense -[3379.52 --> 3380.90] of the world we live in -[3380.90 --> 3381.80] and how we are -[3381.80 --> 3382.64] to live in the world. -[3383.48 --> 3384.50] We clothe ourselves -[3384.50 --> 3385.38] with Christ, -[3385.60 --> 3386.52] putting on the armor -[3386.52 --> 3387.52] of light. -[3388.16 --> 3388.72] That's what we looked -[3388.72 --> 3389.34] at last week. -[3390.26 --> 3390.94] And now, -[3391.12 --> 3392.28] in chapter 14, -[3393.24 --> 3394.04] it seems -[3394.04 --> 3394.84] that what Paul -[3394.84 --> 3395.48] is doing -[3395.48 --> 3396.62] is applying -[3396.62 --> 3398.34] this gospel truth -[3398.34 --> 3399.86] and applying -[3399.86 --> 3400.94] these general -[3400.94 --> 3401.80] applications -[3401.80 --> 3404.00] to a particular -[3404.00 --> 3404.96] situation -[3404.96 --> 3406.54] in the church -[3406.54 --> 3407.46] at Rome. -[3408.78 --> 3409.50] Right, -[3409.50 --> 3410.08] he's applying -[3410.08 --> 3411.32] these Christ-centered -[3411.32 --> 3412.44] living principles -[3412.44 --> 3415.02] to a very -[3415.02 --> 3416.34] precise -[3416.34 --> 3418.36] circumstance -[3418.36 --> 3420.02] that they're facing. -[3420.82 --> 3421.74] Because you see, -[3422.14 --> 3423.28] the church of Rome -[3423.28 --> 3424.56] is made up -[3424.56 --> 3426.02] of both -[3426.02 --> 3427.50] Jewish converts -[3427.50 --> 3429.78] to Christianity, -[3429.78 --> 3430.78] Christianity, -[3430.78 --> 3431.12] to Jesus, -[3431.12 --> 3432.44] and non-Jewish -[3432.44 --> 3433.36] or Gentile -[3433.36 --> 3434.06] converts -[3434.06 --> 3435.28] to Christianity. -[3436.36 --> 3436.68] And so, -[3436.76 --> 3437.52] part of what that -[3437.52 --> 3438.02] means -[3438.02 --> 3439.02] is you have a -[3439.02 --> 3439.60] strong, -[3439.92 --> 3440.76] committed group -[3440.76 --> 3441.46] of people -[3441.46 --> 3442.34] who have, -[3442.56 --> 3443.58] for their entire -[3443.58 --> 3444.32] history -[3444.32 --> 3445.48] of knowing -[3445.48 --> 3446.44] and believing -[3446.44 --> 3447.26] in God, -[3447.38 --> 3448.16] have also -[3448.16 --> 3448.78] understood -[3448.78 --> 3449.88] that this is -[3449.88 --> 3450.78] what that means. -[3451.46 --> 3452.36] This is how -[3452.36 --> 3453.06] that looks. -[3453.64 --> 3454.48] This is how -[3454.48 --> 3454.94] you're supposed -[3454.94 --> 3455.42] to live -[3455.42 --> 3456.34] that faith out. -[3456.34 --> 3456.62] right. -[3457.58 --> 3457.82] Right, -[3457.88 --> 3458.52] this is what -[3458.52 --> 3459.44] right obedience -[3459.44 --> 3460.20] looks like. -[3460.86 --> 3461.52] And then in the -[3461.52 --> 3462.32] same church, -[3462.34 --> 3463.02] you have a group -[3463.02 --> 3463.66] of people -[3463.66 --> 3464.38] who have come -[3464.38 --> 3464.94] to believe -[3464.94 --> 3465.56] in Jesus -[3465.56 --> 3466.46] and in the gospel -[3466.46 --> 3467.68] who don't have -[3467.68 --> 3468.40] that history, -[3468.66 --> 3469.68] who aren't shaped -[3469.68 --> 3470.90] in that same way, -[3471.06 --> 3472.02] but rather have -[3472.02 --> 3472.92] other histories -[3472.92 --> 3474.02] and other shaping -[3474.02 --> 3474.74] realities. -[3476.24 --> 3476.42] Right, -[3476.46 --> 3476.96] in essence, -[3477.08 --> 3477.98] what's going on -[3477.98 --> 3478.98] is a sort of -[3478.98 --> 3480.34] clash of cultures -[3480.34 --> 3481.62] in this new -[3481.62 --> 3482.92] cultural creation -[3482.92 --> 3483.82] that is the -[3483.82 --> 3485.00] Christian church. -[3485.00 --> 3485.06] church. -[3486.34 --> 3487.38] And for those -[3487.38 --> 3487.94] who are born -[3487.94 --> 3488.62] and raised -[3488.62 --> 3489.24] in the Jewish -[3489.24 --> 3489.84] tradition, -[3490.40 --> 3491.54] who have certain -[3491.54 --> 3492.42] rules about -[3492.42 --> 3493.08] what foods -[3493.08 --> 3493.70] you are allowed -[3493.70 --> 3494.30] to eat or -[3494.30 --> 3494.92] not allowed -[3494.92 --> 3495.38] to eat, -[3495.64 --> 3496.34] certain rules -[3496.34 --> 3497.10] around holy -[3497.10 --> 3498.22] days and festivals -[3498.22 --> 3499.04] and things like -[3499.04 --> 3499.32] that, -[3499.60 --> 3500.70] all of those -[3500.70 --> 3501.38] things have -[3501.38 --> 3502.30] shaped them -[3502.30 --> 3503.32] and are important -[3503.32 --> 3503.88] to them. -[3504.36 --> 3504.46] Right, -[3504.52 --> 3504.96] these things -[3504.96 --> 3505.52] are their -[3505.52 --> 3506.82] expressions of -[3506.82 --> 3507.26] faith. -[3508.18 --> 3508.96] But for the -[3508.96 --> 3509.60] Gentiles who -[3509.60 --> 3510.66] don't have that, -[3510.84 --> 3511.56] who don't have -[3511.56 --> 3512.18] that history, -[3512.64 --> 3513.52] and then who also -[3513.52 --> 3514.46] have no desire -[3514.46 --> 3515.30] to incorporate -[3515.30 --> 3516.04] that history -[3516.04 --> 3516.78] into their -[3516.78 --> 3517.58] expressions of -[3517.58 --> 3517.90] faith, -[3519.28 --> 3520.34] conflicts arise. -[3521.72 --> 3521.98] Right, -[3522.00 --> 3522.46] or to put it -[3522.46 --> 3523.06] in today's -[3523.06 --> 3523.56] language, -[3523.92 --> 3524.98] into the -[3524.98 --> 3525.88] lived experience -[3525.88 --> 3526.50] of these -[3526.50 --> 3527.56] polarities, -[3528.12 --> 3530.46] you have -[3530.46 --> 3531.02] disputes. -[3532.18 --> 3533.00] And Paul -[3533.00 --> 3534.12] applies for us -[3534.12 --> 3534.66] the gospel -[3534.66 --> 3535.84] truths and -[3535.84 --> 3536.68] shows us -[3536.68 --> 3537.62] what transformed -[3537.62 --> 3538.28] lives will -[3538.28 --> 3539.04] look like -[3539.04 --> 3540.30] in a church -[3540.30 --> 3541.40] like Rome. -[3542.52 --> 3542.90] Now, -[3542.96 --> 3543.16] of course, -[3543.16 --> 3543.60] in our own -[3543.60 --> 3543.98] time, -[3544.16 --> 3544.80] we have -[3544.80 --> 3545.60] our own -[3545.60 --> 3546.36] range of -[3546.36 --> 3547.12] polarities. -[3548.14 --> 3548.40] Right, -[3548.44 --> 3548.70] in the -[3548.70 --> 3549.22] contemporary -[3549.22 --> 3550.12] church, -[3550.18 --> 3550.62] we're not -[3550.62 --> 3551.22] immune to -[3551.22 --> 3551.60] this. -[3552.12 --> 3552.68] And even -[3552.68 --> 3553.40] here at -[3553.40 --> 3553.78] Langley -[3553.78 --> 3554.20] Emanuel, -[3554.20 --> 3555.00] we're really -[3555.00 --> 3555.40] good at -[3555.40 --> 3555.82] a lot, -[3555.94 --> 3556.58] we're also -[3556.58 --> 3557.08] not immune -[3557.08 --> 3557.64] to this. -[3558.78 --> 3559.18] And so we -[3559.18 --> 3559.48] can learn -[3559.48 --> 3559.80] from this -[3559.80 --> 3560.12] kind of -[3560.12 --> 3560.44] teaching. -[3562.06 --> 3562.70] I think -[3562.70 --> 3563.28] the line -[3563.28 --> 3563.74] that Paul -[3563.74 --> 3564.38] takes us -[3564.38 --> 3564.74] through -[3564.74 --> 3565.74] is actually -[3565.74 --> 3566.68] pretty linear, -[3567.18 --> 3567.64] and so we're -[3567.64 --> 3568.02] going to move -[3568.02 --> 3568.58] through that -[3568.58 --> 3569.70] in a -[3569.70 --> 3570.22] similar -[3570.22 --> 3571.18] way. -[3571.70 --> 3572.02] And so -[3572.02 --> 3573.60] if you -[3573.60 --> 3573.88] have a -[3573.88 --> 3574.14] Bible, -[3574.34 --> 3574.74] I encourage -[3574.74 --> 3575.00] you to -[3575.00 --> 3575.38] keep that -[3575.38 --> 3575.68] in front -[3575.68 --> 3575.96] of you -[3575.96 --> 3576.74] and open. -[3577.42 --> 3577.76] You can -[3577.76 --> 3578.70] trace the -[3578.70 --> 3579.10] line that -[3579.10 --> 3579.38] we go -[3579.38 --> 3579.66] through. -[3579.86 --> 3580.16] Some of -[3580.16 --> 3580.48] the things -[3580.48 --> 3581.00] will appear -[3581.00 --> 3581.42] on the -[3581.42 --> 3581.66] screen -[3581.66 --> 3582.16] behind me -[3582.16 --> 3582.52] to help -[3582.52 --> 3582.76] you in -[3582.76 --> 3583.18] doing that. -[3584.68 --> 3584.90] Paul -[3584.90 --> 3585.32] begins -[3585.32 --> 3586.52] by saying, -[3586.52 --> 3587.32] accept the -[3587.32 --> 3587.88] one whose -[3587.88 --> 3588.46] faith is -[3588.46 --> 3589.62] weak without -[3589.62 --> 3590.68] quarreling over -[3590.68 --> 3591.42] disputable -[3591.42 --> 3592.40] matters. -[3592.40 --> 3594.20] Now the -[3594.20 --> 3594.72] first thing -[3594.72 --> 3595.22] to wonder -[3595.22 --> 3596.34] is to -[3596.34 --> 3596.92] look at -[3596.92 --> 3597.44] what Paul -[3597.44 --> 3598.88] means when -[3598.88 --> 3599.28] he talks -[3599.28 --> 3599.96] about weak -[3599.96 --> 3600.66] faith. -[3601.68 --> 3602.14] Who is -[3602.14 --> 3602.52] the one -[3602.52 --> 3603.12] with weak -[3603.12 --> 3603.96] faith? -[3604.60 --> 3605.42] Because that -[3605.42 --> 3605.84] doesn't -[3605.84 --> 3606.44] necessarily -[3606.44 --> 3607.26] mean what -[3607.26 --> 3607.62] you might -[3607.62 --> 3608.02] think it -[3608.02 --> 3608.30] does. -[3609.50 --> 3610.02] So weak -[3610.02 --> 3610.76] faith in -[3610.76 --> 3611.90] chapter 14, -[3612.36 --> 3612.98] for instance, -[3613.08 --> 3613.90] is not the -[3613.90 --> 3614.66] same thing -[3614.66 --> 3615.42] as what you -[3615.42 --> 3615.82] might call -[3615.82 --> 3616.30] feeble -[3616.30 --> 3616.74] faith. -[3617.96 --> 3618.76] In chapter -[3618.76 --> 3620.10] 4, -[3620.24 --> 3621.08] verse 19, -[3621.28 --> 3621.96] Paul talks -[3621.96 --> 3622.30] about -[3622.30 --> 3623.12] Abraham, -[3623.44 --> 3623.68] and he -[3623.68 --> 3624.02] says, -[3624.14 --> 3624.66] Abraham, -[3625.04 --> 3625.92] not -[3625.92 --> 3626.80] weakening -[3626.80 --> 3627.68] his faith. -[3629.00 --> 3629.40] And the -[3629.40 --> 3629.78] point there -[3629.78 --> 3630.04] is that -[3630.04 --> 3630.36] Abraham -[3630.36 --> 3630.86] didn't -[3630.86 --> 3631.28] lose -[3631.28 --> 3631.88] trust. -[3632.28 --> 3632.50] He -[3632.50 --> 3632.82] didn't -[3632.82 --> 3633.30] lose -[3633.30 --> 3633.92] faith. -[3634.50 --> 3634.80] A -[3634.80 --> 3635.10] weak -[3635.10 --> 3635.56] faith, -[3635.60 --> 3635.90] or a -[3635.90 --> 3636.24] weakened -[3636.24 --> 3636.80] faith, -[3636.94 --> 3637.48] in chapter -[3637.48 --> 3638.02] 4, -[3638.34 --> 3639.44] is losing -[3639.44 --> 3640.00] trust. -[3640.34 --> 3640.68] But that's -[3640.68 --> 3641.18] not what -[3641.18 --> 3641.54] we're talking -[3641.54 --> 3642.04] about here. -[3642.68 --> 3643.14] That's not -[3643.14 --> 3643.48] the same -[3643.48 --> 3643.84] thing. -[3644.36 --> 3645.18] The person -[3645.18 --> 3645.56] with a -[3645.56 --> 3645.80] weak -[3645.80 --> 3646.30] faith in -[3646.30 --> 3647.18] chapter 14 -[3647.18 --> 3649.08] is something -[3649.08 --> 3649.60] else. -[3651.08 --> 3651.82] And I -[3651.82 --> 3652.46] think that -[3652.46 --> 3653.78] when Paul's -[3653.78 --> 3654.38] talking about -[3654.38 --> 3655.06] a weak -[3655.06 --> 3656.02] faith in -[3656.02 --> 3657.00] chapter 14, -[3657.20 --> 3657.70] what he -[3657.70 --> 3658.94] means is -[3658.94 --> 3659.32] that it's -[3659.32 --> 3659.86] a faith -[3659.86 --> 3660.72] that hasn't -[3660.72 --> 3661.68] worked its -[3661.68 --> 3662.48] way into -[3662.48 --> 3663.10] the corners -[3663.10 --> 3663.98] of all our -[3663.98 --> 3664.50] being and -[3664.50 --> 3665.10] understanding -[3665.10 --> 3665.44] yet. -[3666.24 --> 3666.90] This person -[3666.90 --> 3667.52] hasn't come -[3667.52 --> 3668.70] to a full -[3668.70 --> 3669.14] orbed -[3669.14 --> 3669.92] understanding -[3669.92 --> 3671.14] that since -[3671.14 --> 3671.86] justification -[3671.86 --> 3673.12] is by grace -[3673.12 --> 3673.44] alone, -[3673.52 --> 3674.02] through faith -[3674.02 --> 3674.36] alone, -[3674.42 --> 3674.92] in Christ -[3674.92 --> 3675.32] alone, -[3675.70 --> 3676.20] the use -[3676.20 --> 3676.74] of meat -[3676.74 --> 3677.60] or wine -[3677.60 --> 3678.54] or of this -[3678.54 --> 3679.00] festival -[3679.00 --> 3679.64] or that -[3679.64 --> 3680.18] festival -[3680.18 --> 3681.02] becomes -[3681.02 --> 3681.48] irrelevant. -[3683.18 --> 3683.82] Since you're -[3683.82 --> 3685.06] saved by -[3685.06 --> 3685.92] grace alone, -[3686.18 --> 3686.68] there's no -[3686.68 --> 3687.14] need to -[3687.14 --> 3687.96] feel that -[3687.96 --> 3689.52] somehow you -[3689.52 --> 3689.88] have to -[3689.88 --> 3690.70] keep God's -[3690.70 --> 3691.08] favor, -[3691.36 --> 3691.68] you have to -[3691.68 --> 3692.36] keep God's -[3692.36 --> 3693.02] salvation by -[3693.02 --> 3693.90] following these -[3693.90 --> 3694.78] rules or -[3694.78 --> 3695.54] these regulations. -[3697.98 --> 3698.20] Now, -[3698.64 --> 3700.04] before I go -[3700.04 --> 3700.40] too much -[3700.40 --> 3700.78] further, -[3702.08 --> 3702.46] and in -[3702.46 --> 3703.10] honor of -[3703.10 --> 3704.34] that little -[3704.34 --> 3704.96] old lady -[3704.96 --> 3705.84] in the -[3705.84 --> 3706.12] neighborhood -[3706.12 --> 3706.74] outside of -[3706.74 --> 3707.54] Grand Rapids, -[3707.54 --> 3708.82] it's important -[3708.82 --> 3709.38] to note -[3709.38 --> 3712.46] that these -[3712.46 --> 3713.52] kinds of -[3713.52 --> 3714.56] rules and -[3714.56 --> 3715.38] regulations -[3715.38 --> 3717.70] are held -[3717.70 --> 3718.64] by people -[3718.64 --> 3719.64] as an -[3719.64 --> 3720.28] expression -[3720.28 --> 3721.20] of their -[3721.20 --> 3722.50] faith to -[3722.50 --> 3723.90] ensure that -[3723.90 --> 3724.70] they remain -[3724.70 --> 3725.34] faithful. -[3726.78 --> 3726.86] Right? -[3726.92 --> 3727.32] And so this -[3727.32 --> 3728.10] isn't about, -[3728.20 --> 3728.70] like we said, -[3728.96 --> 3729.66] a lack of -[3729.66 --> 3730.30] trust or a -[3730.30 --> 3730.90] feeble faith. -[3730.98 --> 3731.64] They're trying -[3731.64 --> 3732.34] to be -[3732.34 --> 3733.64] obedient and -[3733.64 --> 3734.28] to ensure -[3734.28 --> 3735.40] their obedience. -[3735.72 --> 3736.90] They're raising -[3736.90 --> 3737.54] the fences -[3737.54 --> 3738.22] a little bit -[3738.22 --> 3738.78] higher, -[3739.18 --> 3739.74] they're moving -[3739.74 --> 3740.36] the boundaries -[3740.36 --> 3740.98] a little bit -[3740.98 --> 3741.52] closer, -[3741.94 --> 3743.06] further away -[3743.06 --> 3743.56] from the -[3743.56 --> 3744.12] edge of -[3744.12 --> 3744.74] what becomes -[3744.74 --> 3746.02] not permissible -[3746.02 --> 3746.56] for us, -[3746.64 --> 3747.62] in order to -[3747.62 --> 3748.22] ensure that -[3748.22 --> 3748.46] they don't -[3748.46 --> 3749.06] fall off. -[3750.06 --> 3750.28] Right? -[3750.30 --> 3750.70] In order to -[3750.70 --> 3751.08] ensure that -[3751.08 --> 3751.40] they don't -[3751.40 --> 3752.00] transgress. -[3755.20 --> 3756.10] An illustration, -[3756.24 --> 3756.86] a personal one -[3756.86 --> 3757.92] from my own -[3757.92 --> 3758.18] life. -[3758.76 --> 3759.22] Some of you -[3759.22 --> 3760.00] know my story -[3760.00 --> 3761.06] and parts of it -[3761.06 --> 3762.18] more detailed -[3762.18 --> 3762.62] than others, -[3762.74 --> 3764.02] but there was -[3764.02 --> 3764.68] a period in my -[3764.68 --> 3767.04] life where I -[3767.04 --> 3767.60] did a lot -[3767.60 --> 3768.94] of what we'll -[3768.94 --> 3770.20] call recreational -[3770.20 --> 3770.96] drug use. -[3772.14 --> 3772.82] And when the -[3772.82 --> 3773.28] Lord got a -[3773.28 --> 3773.84] hold of me -[3773.84 --> 3774.30] and started -[3774.30 --> 3775.10] changing my -[3775.10 --> 3777.66] life, I had -[3777.66 --> 3778.26] to stop -[3778.26 --> 3779.00] hanging out -[3779.00 --> 3779.46] with certain -[3779.46 --> 3779.88] people. -[3781.60 --> 3782.58] I had to -[3782.58 --> 3783.34] build big -[3783.34 --> 3785.34] fences around -[3785.34 --> 3786.62] my life in -[3786.62 --> 3787.42] order to stop -[3787.42 --> 3788.00] that kind of -[3788.00 --> 3788.62] activity from -[3788.62 --> 3789.18] happening, in -[3789.18 --> 3789.64] order to get -[3789.64 --> 3790.68] that temptation -[3790.68 --> 3791.42] away. -[3791.48 --> 3791.78] I had to -[3791.78 --> 3792.38] change my -[3792.38 --> 3793.10] friend group -[3793.10 --> 3794.28] because it -[3794.28 --> 3795.38] was too -[3795.38 --> 3796.26] easy, if I -[3796.26 --> 3796.64] was hanging -[3796.64 --> 3797.00] out with -[3797.00 --> 3797.66] them, to -[3797.66 --> 3798.08] give in. -[3799.18 --> 3799.70] And for a -[3799.70 --> 3800.18] really long -[3800.18 --> 3801.52] time, I -[3801.52 --> 3801.90] couldn't be -[3801.90 --> 3802.88] around people -[3802.88 --> 3804.72] who were, for -[3804.72 --> 3805.86] instance, smoking -[3805.86 --> 3806.82] marijuana because -[3806.82 --> 3808.42] I would smell -[3808.42 --> 3809.22] it and go, oh -[3809.22 --> 3809.68] yeah, I could -[3809.68 --> 3810.40] probably do it. -[3811.14 --> 3811.58] It would be -[3811.58 --> 3811.88] okay. -[3812.92 --> 3813.42] And so I had -[3813.42 --> 3813.98] to create these -[3813.98 --> 3814.70] fences, I had -[3814.70 --> 3815.18] to create these -[3815.18 --> 3815.52] walls. -[3815.86 --> 3816.82] In my fervor, -[3817.16 --> 3817.72] though, what -[3817.72 --> 3818.82] happened is I -[3818.82 --> 3819.76] began prescribing -[3819.76 --> 3820.76] the same approach -[3820.76 --> 3821.64] for everyone -[3821.64 --> 3822.06] else. -[3823.10 --> 3824.40] I began to -[3824.40 --> 3825.02] say things like, -[3825.10 --> 3825.66] well, nobody -[3825.66 --> 3826.28] can hang out -[3826.28 --> 3826.62] with those -[3826.62 --> 3827.26] people because -[3827.26 --> 3828.20] everybody's going -[3828.20 --> 3828.72] to fall into -[3828.72 --> 3829.24] that sin. -[3830.54 --> 3831.26] You see the -[3831.26 --> 3831.66] shift that -[3831.66 --> 3832.24] happens there? -[3833.26 --> 3833.44] Right? -[3833.60 --> 3834.22] What is good -[3834.22 --> 3834.98] for me and -[3834.98 --> 3835.86] wise for me -[3835.86 --> 3836.70] became a -[3836.70 --> 3838.08] prescription for -[3838.08 --> 3838.50] everyone. -[3839.76 --> 3840.50] And it's not -[3840.50 --> 3840.96] that I didn't -[3840.96 --> 3841.68] trust God for -[3841.68 --> 3842.36] my salvation, -[3843.08 --> 3843.30] right? -[3843.30 --> 3843.66] It's that I -[3843.66 --> 3844.46] was learning to -[3844.46 --> 3845.08] trust him for -[3845.08 --> 3845.72] my obedience. -[3847.22 --> 3847.90] And that's -[3847.90 --> 3848.54] what's going on -[3848.54 --> 3848.68] here. -[3848.74 --> 3849.38] That's why people -[3849.38 --> 3849.96] create these -[3849.96 --> 3851.08] fences and build -[3851.08 --> 3851.56] these walls. -[3851.56 --> 3852.32] And to the -[3852.32 --> 3853.24] church at Rome, -[3853.30 --> 3854.12] Paul says, -[3854.56 --> 3855.50] except the one -[3855.50 --> 3856.38] whose faith is -[3856.38 --> 3856.96] weak, that is -[3856.96 --> 3857.58] the one who is -[3857.58 --> 3859.08] learning how to -[3859.08 --> 3860.80] fully embrace -[3860.80 --> 3861.54] their justification -[3861.54 --> 3862.72] by grace alone, -[3862.98 --> 3864.40] through faith alone, -[3864.48 --> 3865.32] in Christ alone, -[3865.64 --> 3866.36] except them -[3866.36 --> 3868.16] without quarreling -[3868.16 --> 3870.06] over disputable -[3870.06 --> 3870.94] matters. -[3872.82 --> 3873.68] Now the next -[3873.68 --> 3874.64] question is sort -[3874.64 --> 3875.10] of the hinge -[3875.10 --> 3875.64] of it all. -[3875.98 --> 3876.76] Because what are -[3876.76 --> 3877.70] these disputable -[3877.70 --> 3878.02] matters? -[3878.02 --> 3880.40] What does that -[3880.40 --> 3880.64] mean? -[3881.92 --> 3882.60] Now the two -[3882.60 --> 3883.22] words that are -[3883.22 --> 3883.98] used here in -[3883.98 --> 3885.76] Greek, the first -[3885.76 --> 3886.70] one means judging -[3886.70 --> 3888.28] or discerning, and -[3888.28 --> 3889.12] the second one -[3889.12 --> 3890.70] means thoughts -[3890.70 --> 3892.58] or disputations. -[3893.54 --> 3894.28] And so, for -[3894.28 --> 3895.12] instance, if you -[3895.12 --> 3896.08] read a different -[3896.08 --> 3897.00] translation than -[3897.00 --> 3897.52] the one we've -[3897.52 --> 3898.10] read here, which -[3898.10 --> 3899.58] is the NIV, if -[3899.58 --> 3900.16] you read the -[3900.16 --> 3901.06] ESV, the -[3901.06 --> 3901.78] English Standard -[3901.78 --> 3902.48] Version, it -[3902.48 --> 3903.22] might say, do -[3903.22 --> 3904.30] not quarrel over -[3904.30 --> 3905.00] opinions. -[3905.00 --> 3906.92] Or the New -[3906.92 --> 3907.80] Living Translation -[3907.80 --> 3908.50] says, do not -[3908.50 --> 3909.34] argue with them -[3909.34 --> 3910.12] about what they -[3910.12 --> 3910.90] think is right -[3910.90 --> 3911.26] or wrong. -[3912.12 --> 3912.88] If you like -[3912.88 --> 3913.96] older translations, -[3914.94 --> 3915.96] the King James -[3915.96 --> 3917.52] Version says, do -[3917.52 --> 3918.80] not quarrel over -[3918.80 --> 3919.42] doubtful -[3919.42 --> 3920.48] disputations. -[3922.04 --> 3922.80] Now to sum it -[3922.80 --> 3924.14] up, I think -[3924.14 --> 3926.28] Paul's point is -[3926.28 --> 3927.78] to encourage us -[3927.78 --> 3928.92] to not waste -[3928.92 --> 3931.02] time arguing -[3931.02 --> 3932.08] over things -[3932.08 --> 3933.86] about which there -[3933.86 --> 3935.48] can be reasonable -[3935.48 --> 3936.48] differences of -[3936.48 --> 3936.86] opinion. -[3937.84 --> 3938.66] Now I'm beginning -[3938.66 --> 3939.40] to expand that -[3939.40 --> 3940.50] definition for us, -[3941.78 --> 3943.40] but I also think -[3943.40 --> 3944.40] that as you read -[3944.40 --> 3945.16] the rest of the -[3945.16 --> 3945.98] text, especially -[3945.98 --> 3946.70] as we get into -[3946.70 --> 3947.92] the second part -[3947.92 --> 3948.50] of the argument -[3948.50 --> 3949.10] and in chapter -[3949.10 --> 3950.58] 15, where he -[3950.58 --> 3951.86] finally uses the -[3951.86 --> 3952.94] word strong, so -[3952.94 --> 3953.82] he's contrasting -[3953.82 --> 3954.44] those who are -[3954.44 --> 3955.02] weak, who are -[3955.02 --> 3955.84] yet to understand -[3955.84 --> 3956.82] the full scope, -[3956.90 --> 3957.48] and those who -[3957.48 --> 3959.24] are strong, that -[3959.24 --> 3960.50] there is a call -[3960.50 --> 3961.58] for movement, -[3961.84 --> 3962.54] there is a call -[3962.54 --> 3964.32] for maturing in -[3964.32 --> 3965.64] faith, right? -[3965.68 --> 3966.36] And that maturing -[3966.36 --> 3967.06] comes from -[3967.06 --> 3968.26] understanding and -[3968.26 --> 3969.44] applying the scope -[3969.44 --> 3970.46] of the gospel. -[3971.28 --> 3972.56] And so the truth -[3972.56 --> 3973.70] behind and through -[3973.70 --> 3975.02] this is that the -[3975.02 --> 3976.48] so-called weaker -[3976.48 --> 3977.54] brother or sister -[3977.54 --> 3978.58] should want to -[3978.58 --> 3980.16] become the stronger -[3980.16 --> 3981.72] brother or sister -[3981.72 --> 3982.50] in the faith. -[3982.70 --> 3983.88] The problem is, -[3984.38 --> 3985.08] who's going to be -[3985.08 --> 3985.96] the first person to -[3985.96 --> 3986.68] raise their hand -[3986.68 --> 3987.30] and say, you know -[3987.30 --> 3987.92] what, in this -[3987.92 --> 3989.34] arrangement, I'm the -[3989.34 --> 3989.94] weaker one. -[3992.16 --> 3993.26] Very few of us -[3993.26 --> 3993.92] are self-aware -[3993.92 --> 3994.82] enough to realize -[3994.82 --> 3996.46] that we are the -[3996.46 --> 3997.56] weaker ones in the -[3997.56 --> 3998.40] relationships of -[3998.40 --> 3999.96] faith and maturation, -[4000.78 --> 4000.92] right? -[4000.98 --> 4002.68] Because, especially -[4002.68 --> 4003.76] because the kind -[4003.76 --> 4005.20] of weakness that -[4005.20 --> 4006.22] Paul is talking -[4006.22 --> 4008.28] about here comes -[4008.28 --> 4009.40] often with a lot -[4009.40 --> 4010.16] of fervor, -[4011.62 --> 4011.86] right? -[4012.00 --> 4013.50] Not unlike the -[4013.50 --> 4014.88] Pharisees of Jesus' -[4015.12 --> 4016.88] day, those people -[4016.88 --> 4017.94] with the sort of -[4017.94 --> 4020.40] legalistic rule-following -[4020.40 --> 4022.58] impulses have a -[4022.58 --> 4024.22] tendency in systems -[4024.22 --> 4025.24] not unlike our -[4025.24 --> 4026.78] own to emerge as -[4026.78 --> 4028.66] leaders, right? -[4028.68 --> 4029.24] Or to be able to -[4029.24 --> 4031.46] exercise influence. -[4032.80 --> 4033.88] And sometimes that's -[4033.88 --> 4035.16] because they are -[4035.16 --> 4035.62] loud. -[4036.40 --> 4037.48] Other times it's -[4037.48 --> 4038.58] because we interpret -[4038.58 --> 4040.98] their passion as a -[4040.98 --> 4041.76] commitment and a -[4041.76 --> 4042.68] pursuit of holiness -[4042.68 --> 4043.40] and we say, yeah, -[4043.44 --> 4044.10] we want to be like -[4044.10 --> 4044.40] that. -[4045.02 --> 4045.98] Because passion -[4045.98 --> 4047.66] conveys truth -[4047.66 --> 4048.60] for some of us. -[4051.06 --> 4052.26] Now, I think then -[4052.26 --> 4053.70] it's helpful -[4053.70 --> 4055.42] as we are asking -[4055.42 --> 4056.34] these questions -[4056.34 --> 4057.62] to look at the -[4057.62 --> 4058.86] kinds of things -[4058.86 --> 4060.62] that Paul identifies -[4060.62 --> 4062.00] as disputable -[4062.00 --> 4063.40] matters and then -[4063.40 --> 4064.12] to see -[4064.12 --> 4066.06] on which side -[4066.06 --> 4067.06] of these issues -[4067.06 --> 4068.22] the weak and -[4068.22 --> 4069.22] strong Christian -[4069.22 --> 4070.00] might fall -[4070.00 --> 4070.98] and then -[4070.98 --> 4072.00] we can ask, -[4072.40 --> 4072.88] where do I -[4072.88 --> 4073.36] stand? -[4074.06 --> 4074.64] Or where do we -[4074.64 --> 4074.96] stand? -[4074.96 --> 4077.96] Now, in -[4077.96 --> 4078.60] preparing for -[4078.60 --> 4080.42] this, I was -[4080.42 --> 4081.64] able to -[4081.64 --> 4082.98] identify -[4082.98 --> 4084.64] what I will -[4084.64 --> 4085.36] call six -[4085.36 --> 4086.62] clear examples. -[4087.48 --> 4088.16] There are a -[4088.16 --> 4088.84] couple other -[4088.84 --> 4089.82] examples that -[4089.82 --> 4090.36] may be less -[4090.36 --> 4092.36] clear, but -[4092.36 --> 4092.76] we're not going -[4092.76 --> 4093.70] to bother -[4093.70 --> 4094.40] ourselves with -[4094.40 --> 4095.68] those for this -[4095.68 --> 4096.08] point, although -[4096.08 --> 4096.76] I suspect we'll -[4096.76 --> 4097.30] talk about them -[4097.30 --> 4097.82] in the podcast -[4097.82 --> 4099.00] on Tuesday, and -[4099.00 --> 4099.64] so there's a -[4099.64 --> 4100.22] plug if you want -[4100.22 --> 4100.58] to see what -[4100.58 --> 4101.20] those ones are. -[4102.64 --> 4103.54] Six examples -[4103.54 --> 4104.28] of these -[4104.28 --> 4105.00] disputable -[4105.00 --> 4106.22] matters in -[4106.22 --> 4106.46] the New -[4106.46 --> 4106.82] Testament. -[4107.36 --> 4108.16] Three are -[4108.16 --> 4108.70] from our -[4108.70 --> 4109.58] text, and -[4109.58 --> 4109.98] three are -[4109.98 --> 4110.38] from other -[4110.38 --> 4110.80] texts. -[4111.56 --> 4112.08] The first -[4112.08 --> 4112.88] one is -[4112.88 --> 4113.38] verse 2, -[4113.90 --> 4114.08] right? -[4114.52 --> 4115.54] One person's -[4115.54 --> 4116.40] faith allows -[4116.40 --> 4117.00] them to eat -[4117.00 --> 4118.32] anything, but -[4118.32 --> 4119.10] another, whose -[4119.10 --> 4119.78] faith is weak, -[4120.20 --> 4120.78] eats only -[4120.78 --> 4121.32] vegetables. -[4123.04 --> 4123.66] And so here -[4123.66 --> 4124.58] you can see -[4124.58 --> 4125.20] that there's a -[4125.20 --> 4126.44] connection back -[4126.44 --> 4127.34] to the Jewish -[4127.34 --> 4128.58] dietary laws -[4128.58 --> 4129.96] and restrictions -[4129.96 --> 4131.26] which forbade -[4131.26 --> 4132.06] the eating of -[4132.06 --> 4132.74] certain kinds -[4132.74 --> 4133.32] of foods. -[4134.34 --> 4135.36] Now this is a -[4135.36 --> 4136.56] disputable matter -[4136.56 --> 4138.08] because in -[4138.08 --> 4140.00] Mark 7, Jesus -[4140.00 --> 4142.00] says, don't -[4142.00 --> 4142.72] you see that -[4142.72 --> 4143.26] nothing that -[4143.26 --> 4144.08] enters a person -[4144.08 --> 4144.90] from outside -[4144.90 --> 4145.72] can defile -[4145.72 --> 4146.00] them? -[4146.48 --> 4147.06] For it doesn't -[4147.06 --> 4147.66] go into their -[4147.66 --> 4148.68] heart, but into -[4148.68 --> 4149.82] their stomach, and -[4149.82 --> 4150.30] then out of the -[4150.30 --> 4150.58] body. -[4150.66 --> 4151.16] And then Mark -[4151.16 --> 4151.80] adds this -[4151.80 --> 4152.46] comment, which -[4152.46 --> 4153.18] is why it's in -[4153.18 --> 4154.58] parentheses there. -[4154.66 --> 4155.14] He says, in -[4155.14 --> 4156.52] saying this, Jesus -[4156.52 --> 4158.22] declared all foods -[4158.22 --> 4158.88] clean. -[4158.88 --> 4161.40] And then again, -[4161.52 --> 4163.04] in Acts 10, verse -[4163.04 --> 4164.04] 9 and following, -[4164.56 --> 4165.46] you read the -[4165.46 --> 4166.26] story of Peter -[4166.26 --> 4167.00] who has a -[4167.00 --> 4168.06] vision, and in -[4168.06 --> 4169.46] his vision, a -[4169.46 --> 4170.58] blanket descends -[4170.58 --> 4171.64] from heaven, and -[4171.64 --> 4172.42] on it are all -[4172.42 --> 4173.42] kinds of animals, -[4173.64 --> 4174.24] four-hooved -[4174.24 --> 4175.70] animals, split-hooved -[4175.70 --> 4177.50] animals, reptiles -[4177.50 --> 4178.96] and birds, and -[4178.96 --> 4180.12] God tells Peter, the -[4180.12 --> 4180.72] voice from heaven -[4180.72 --> 4181.84] tells Peter, eat. -[4182.46 --> 4183.54] And Peter says, -[4183.96 --> 4184.52] remembering his -[4184.52 --> 4185.30] upbringing as a -[4185.30 --> 4186.32] good Jew, I've -[4186.32 --> 4187.58] never eaten unclean -[4187.58 --> 4188.06] foods. -[4188.88 --> 4189.66] I've never had -[4189.66 --> 4190.78] anything impure. -[4191.50 --> 4192.06] And then the -[4192.06 --> 4192.80] voice says to -[4192.80 --> 4193.52] Peter in Acts -[4193.52 --> 4195.14] 10, 15, do not -[4195.14 --> 4195.98] call anything -[4195.98 --> 4197.42] impure what God -[4197.42 --> 4198.84] has made clean. -[4201.20 --> 4203.10] And so, in -[4203.10 --> 4204.56] verse 14 of our -[4204.56 --> 4205.58] text, in Romans -[4205.58 --> 4206.90] 14, so again, if -[4206.90 --> 4207.20] you have your -[4207.20 --> 4208.78] Bible, Paul then -[4208.78 --> 4209.80] takes this and -[4209.80 --> 4210.48] says, I am -[4210.48 --> 4211.50] convinced, being -[4211.50 --> 4212.72] fully persuaded in -[4212.72 --> 4213.78] the Lord Jesus, that -[4213.78 --> 4215.76] nothing is unclean -[4215.76 --> 4217.72] in itself. -[4218.88 --> 4220.40] But then he goes -[4220.40 --> 4222.72] on to say, but if -[4222.72 --> 4223.88] anyone regards -[4223.88 --> 4224.78] something as -[4224.78 --> 4226.92] unclean, then for -[4226.92 --> 4229.20] that person, it is -[4229.20 --> 4229.86] unclean. -[4231.16 --> 4232.46] That's why this is a -[4232.46 --> 4233.30] disputable matter. -[4235.00 --> 4235.66] Right? -[4235.74 --> 4236.58] The second example -[4236.58 --> 4237.42] coming from the -[4237.42 --> 4239.32] text is of one day -[4239.32 --> 4240.36] being more sacred -[4240.36 --> 4241.70] than another, or -[4241.70 --> 4243.22] every day being -[4243.22 --> 4243.62] alike. -[4243.72 --> 4244.24] This is verse -[4244.24 --> 4244.60] five. -[4244.60 --> 4246.34] And here again, -[4246.64 --> 4247.50] right, is a tie -[4247.50 --> 4248.60] back to the Jewish -[4248.60 --> 4249.78] instructions around -[4249.78 --> 4251.32] Sabbath and around -[4251.32 --> 4252.64] holy day festivals. -[4253.82 --> 4254.80] Instructions that -[4254.80 --> 4256.16] the people in the -[4256.16 --> 4257.30] law are required -[4257.30 --> 4257.94] to keep. -[4259.28 --> 4259.54] Right? -[4260.02 --> 4261.00] Remember the -[4261.00 --> 4262.06] Sabbath day and -[4262.06 --> 4263.08] keep it holy. -[4265.08 --> 4266.10] On it you shall -[4266.10 --> 4267.22] not do any work, -[4267.92 --> 4268.66] neither your son -[4268.66 --> 4269.46] nor daughter, your -[4269.46 --> 4270.18] manservant nor -[4270.18 --> 4271.50] maidservant, neither -[4271.50 --> 4273.02] the alien within your -[4273.02 --> 4273.88] gates or any of your -[4273.88 --> 4274.32] animals. -[4276.46 --> 4278.04] But again, in -[4278.04 --> 4279.50] Mark 2, Jesus -[4279.50 --> 4280.76] says, the -[4280.76 --> 4281.80] Sabbath was made -[4281.80 --> 4282.90] for man, not -[4282.90 --> 4283.58] man for the -[4283.58 --> 4283.84] Sabbath. -[4284.20 --> 4285.12] So the son of -[4285.12 --> 4286.58] man is Lord even -[4286.58 --> 4287.60] of the Sabbath. -[4288.96 --> 4289.52] And then Paul -[4289.52 --> 4290.20] writes in -[4290.20 --> 4291.46] Colossians 2, -[4292.18 --> 4293.08] it says, therefore, -[4293.30 --> 4294.40] do not let anyone -[4294.40 --> 4295.40] judge you by what -[4295.40 --> 4296.48] you eat or drink or -[4296.48 --> 4297.36] with regard to a -[4297.36 --> 4298.80] religious festival, a -[4298.80 --> 4299.88] new moon celebration, -[4299.88 --> 4301.28] or a Sabbath day. -[4301.76 --> 4302.80] These are shadows -[4302.80 --> 4303.66] of the things that -[4303.66 --> 4304.30] were to come. -[4304.42 --> 4305.12] The reality, -[4305.40 --> 4306.76] however, is found -[4306.76 --> 4308.14] in Christ. -[4311.02 --> 4311.40] Right? -[4311.44 --> 4312.72] In Hebrews 4, you -[4312.72 --> 4314.00] can read how Jesus -[4314.00 --> 4315.38] is the eternal -[4315.38 --> 4316.66] Sabbath rest that we -[4316.66 --> 4317.82] are to enter into. -[4318.38 --> 4319.24] And so everything -[4319.24 --> 4320.82] that was the Old -[4320.82 --> 4321.70] Testament Sabbath -[4321.70 --> 4323.14] laws pointed to is -[4323.14 --> 4324.24] fulfilled in Jesus -[4324.24 --> 4325.94] and applies every day, -[4326.10 --> 4327.26] not just one day a -[4327.26 --> 4327.48] week. -[4329.42 --> 4330.92] Now, don't hear what -[4330.92 --> 4331.52] I'm not saying. -[4331.52 --> 4332.04] Right? -[4332.04 --> 4332.12] Right? -[4332.38 --> 4333.76] This does mean -[4333.76 --> 4334.70] Christians shouldn't -[4334.70 --> 4335.92] gather together on the -[4335.92 --> 4336.96] day dedicated to the -[4336.96 --> 4339.24] Lord, but it does beg -[4339.24 --> 4340.50] the question about the -[4340.50 --> 4341.50] rules and the boundaries -[4341.50 --> 4342.38] we put around it. -[4344.38 --> 4346.00] Now, the next example -[4346.00 --> 4349.40] is from chapter 14, -[4349.50 --> 4350.28] and it's found in verse -[4350.28 --> 4352.70] 21, where Paul includes -[4352.70 --> 4354.34] drinking wine alongside -[4354.34 --> 4356.20] of the argument against -[4356.20 --> 4356.84] eating meat. -[4356.84 --> 4359.94] And so it seems that -[4359.94 --> 4361.96] this, too, was a -[4361.96 --> 4363.34] disputed matter in the -[4363.34 --> 4365.20] Church of Rome, that -[4365.20 --> 4366.26] people put a prescription -[4366.26 --> 4367.54] on drinking wine. -[4368.68 --> 4369.70] Now, again, this might -[4369.70 --> 4371.52] be an indication of -[4371.52 --> 4372.16] what I talked about -[4372.16 --> 4373.46] earlier about higher -[4373.46 --> 4375.00] fences or moving the -[4375.00 --> 4376.38] boundaries closer in -[4376.38 --> 4377.54] order to protect people -[4377.54 --> 4378.82] from the sin of -[4378.82 --> 4379.52] drunkenness. -[4380.18 --> 4380.72] Right? -[4380.74 --> 4381.92] It's not that wine is -[4381.92 --> 4383.24] bad in and of itself, -[4383.80 --> 4385.54] but there is bad wine. -[4385.60 --> 4386.20] Am I right, Paul? -[4386.84 --> 4389.70] But if you are -[4389.70 --> 4391.12] untempered in your -[4391.12 --> 4393.82] consumption of wine, -[4393.88 --> 4394.52] then you need higher -[4394.52 --> 4396.26] boundaries to protect -[4396.26 --> 4397.22] yourself from the sin -[4397.22 --> 4398.60] that might come about. -[4400.24 --> 4401.16] Now, there are other -[4401.16 --> 4402.14] examples in the New -[4402.14 --> 4403.36] Testament of these kinds -[4403.36 --> 4404.84] of disputable matters, -[4404.90 --> 4405.72] and I'll quickly point -[4405.72 --> 4406.50] them out to you because -[4406.50 --> 4407.86] it's pertinent to see -[4407.86 --> 4409.10] the contrast through. -[4409.86 --> 4413.46] In Galatians 2, 3 and 5, -[4413.94 --> 4415.80] Paul talks about refusing -[4415.80 --> 4418.82] to circumcise Titus because -[4418.82 --> 4420.74] Titus is a Greek who -[4420.74 --> 4422.84] became a Christian, and -[4422.84 --> 4423.86] therefore the rules of -[4423.86 --> 4425.90] circumcision don't apply to -[4425.90 --> 4426.12] him. -[4426.46 --> 4429.98] And yet, in Acts 16, verse 3, -[4430.38 --> 4431.56] you read that Paul -[4431.56 --> 4434.96] circumcised Timothy because -[4434.96 --> 4437.28] Timothy was raised Jewish, -[4438.06 --> 4439.30] as his mother was Jewish, -[4439.42 --> 4440.32] his grandmother was Jewish, -[4440.32 --> 4441.82] and his father was a Greek, -[4441.82 --> 4443.40] and because Timothy would -[4443.40 --> 4445.06] be with Paul a missionary -[4445.06 --> 4446.60] to Jewish people. -[4448.38 --> 4449.06] Right? -[4449.12 --> 4450.88] This isn't a lesson about -[4450.88 --> 4451.52] contradiction. -[4452.12 --> 4453.88] This is a lesson about the -[4453.88 --> 4456.42] missional context being -[4456.42 --> 4458.32] important for discerning what -[4458.32 --> 4460.18] is a disputable matter. -[4461.34 --> 4463.50] Another example is food -[4463.50 --> 4464.90] sacrificed to idols. -[4465.90 --> 4467.42] So in Acts 15, you have the -[4467.42 --> 4468.28] story of the Jerusalem -[4468.28 --> 4469.40] council meeting, that is, -[4469.46 --> 4470.80] early Christians, many of them -[4470.80 --> 4472.78] Jewish meeting to decide how -[4472.78 --> 4474.88] are we going to incorporate -[4474.88 --> 4476.80] these non-Jewish people into -[4476.80 --> 4478.40] what is becoming the -[4478.40 --> 4479.58] Christian church. -[4480.46 --> 4481.88] And they write a letter -[4481.88 --> 4484.42] saying that you don't have to -[4484.42 --> 4486.20] be circumcised, but you should -[4486.20 --> 4487.82] avoid eating food sacrificed -[4488.66 --> 4489.88] to idols, eating meat -[4489.88 --> 4491.46] sacrificed to idols. -[4491.68 --> 4494.10] But then, in 1 Corinthians 8, -[4494.30 --> 4496.04] Paul says that that is in fact -[4496.04 --> 4498.04] no thing, that is, the idol -[4498.04 --> 4499.38] isn't real, so it doesn't -[4499.38 --> 4501.00] matter if you eat this meat -[4501.00 --> 4501.56] or not. -[4502.02 --> 4502.12] Right? -[4502.16 --> 4504.18] He says, food does not bring -[4504.18 --> 4506.24] us near to God, for we are -[4506.24 --> 4507.62] no worse if we do not eat, -[4507.70 --> 4508.72] and no better if we do. -[4510.28 --> 4510.48] Right? -[4510.88 --> 4512.56] But then Paul goes on to say -[4512.56 --> 4513.68] that we shouldn't put a -[4513.68 --> 4515.30] stumbling block in front of -[4515.30 --> 4515.80] other people. -[4516.04 --> 4516.24] Right? -[4516.26 --> 4518.14] He says that if what I eat -[4518.14 --> 4519.46] causes my brother or sister -[4519.46 --> 4521.58] to fall into sin, I will -[4521.58 --> 4523.30] never eat meat again, so as to -[4523.30 --> 4525.10] not cause them to fall. -[4527.02 --> 4528.96] You can see, right, Paul is -[4528.96 --> 4530.72] effectively making the same -[4530.72 --> 4532.98] case over again. -[4533.90 --> 4535.06] And then the last example, -[4535.88 --> 4537.20] at least the explicit one to -[4537.20 --> 4538.62] be found, is that of marriage -[4538.62 --> 4540.06] and celibacy. -[4541.00 --> 4543.28] In the same chapter, 1 Corinthians -[4543.28 --> 4546.12] 7, Paul says that celibacy is -[4546.12 --> 4547.92] good, and in some cases it is to -[4547.92 --> 4549.18] be preferred for all people. -[4549.94 --> 4551.82] And Paul says that marriage is -[4551.82 --> 4553.18] good, and in some cases it is -[4553.18 --> 4554.54] to be preferred for all -[4554.54 --> 4554.84] people. -[4555.94 --> 4558.30] It's a matter of discernment and -[4558.30 --> 4561.14] of context, of limiting sin. -[4561.28 --> 4562.78] Point is, it's a disputable -[4562.78 --> 4564.22] matter, and you can have -[4564.22 --> 4565.64] differences of opinion about -[4565.64 --> 4568.08] these things, and to chapter -[4568.08 --> 4569.94] 14's point, having those -[4569.94 --> 4571.98] differences of opinions may not -[4571.98 --> 4573.52] be worth fighting about. -[4574.04 --> 4575.12] That is, they may not be worth -[4575.12 --> 4577.24] splitting a church over, or -[4577.24 --> 4579.32] breaking a relationship over. -[4581.82 --> 4585.56] The weak Christians in this -[4585.56 --> 4589.96] text's language are those who, -[4590.20 --> 4591.72] for one reason or another, -[4591.90 --> 4593.28] sometimes perfectly legitimate -[4593.28 --> 4595.54] reasons, other times reasons we -[4595.54 --> 4597.00] need to challenge for their -[4597.00 --> 4598.66] growing and maturing in faith, -[4599.18 --> 4601.42] who promote non-essential, -[4601.98 --> 4605.02] cultural, ceremonial cautions -[4605.02 --> 4609.10] as being necessary for Christian -[4609.10 --> 4611.18] maturity, and for effectiveness. -[4612.32 --> 4614.68] It's making what could be a -[4614.68 --> 4616.20] matter of personal preference -[4616.20 --> 4619.32] and personal piety prescriptive -[4619.32 --> 4622.08] for everyone when the -[4622.08 --> 4623.40] scriptures don't do that. -[4624.90 --> 4626.04] Let me give you an example, for -[4626.04 --> 4627.50] an example of this. -[4628.24 --> 4629.62] And this was a few generations -[4629.62 --> 4631.32] ago, nothing like this happens in -[4631.32 --> 4633.70] our church anymore, but some -[4633.70 --> 4635.80] people, you know, used to get very -[4635.80 --> 4638.02] upset about contemporary music -[4638.02 --> 4639.04] styles in church. -[4639.76 --> 4640.80] It doesn't happen anymore. -[4643.30 --> 4645.96] Now, these people likely would -[4645.96 --> 4648.56] never deny that someone who wants -[4648.56 --> 4651.26] drums in worship is a Christian, -[4651.76 --> 4654.70] but they might say something like, -[4655.24 --> 4658.00] that music isn't reverent. -[4659.36 --> 4660.86] And I've heard it this way, too, -[4661.04 --> 4663.36] that music offends the Lord. -[4663.36 --> 4666.78] Now, what they mean, of course, is -[4666.78 --> 4669.06] that it offends them, and then -[4669.06 --> 4670.22] they've put themselves in the place -[4670.22 --> 4671.20] of God, and then have made it -[4671.20 --> 4672.48] prescriptive for everyone else. -[4673.48 --> 4675.48] Now, if that illustration doesn't -[4675.48 --> 4677.30] land for you, because we all love -[4677.30 --> 4679.60] drums around here, replace drums -[4679.60 --> 4680.32] with hip-hop. -[4682.18 --> 4684.40] Or, gag, replace it with country -[4684.40 --> 4684.80] music. -[4687.96 --> 4690.20] Or replace it with a full 70-piece -[4690.20 --> 4690.70] orchestra. -[4692.76 --> 4693.16] Right? -[4693.24 --> 4695.04] Point is, for any one of those, -[4695.28 --> 4697.30] as soon as you say, that's not -[4697.30 --> 4699.42] worship, we can't do that, -[4699.58 --> 4700.72] you're in the realm of a -[4700.72 --> 4702.08] disputable matter, and you're -[4702.08 --> 4703.60] elevating personal preference and -[4703.60 --> 4705.68] personal piety to prescription. -[4706.84 --> 4708.16] And so it may be true that you -[4708.16 --> 4709.48] can't worship through that, -[4710.86 --> 4711.88] but that doesn't mean I can't. -[4714.16 --> 4716.92] And look, it may even be true that -[4716.92 --> 4718.32] it's not wise for you. -[4720.08 --> 4720.30] Right? -[4720.34 --> 4722.16] Because if, what Paul gets into -[4722.16 --> 4723.60] here, right, is that if that -[4723.60 --> 4726.82] pricks your conscience, if it is -[4726.82 --> 4730.14] sinful for you, because it becomes -[4730.14 --> 4731.50] sinful for you because you're going -[4731.50 --> 4732.90] against your conscience. -[4733.00 --> 4734.24] And I think this is the sum of -[4734.24 --> 4736.16] Paul's point in verse 5, right? -[4736.18 --> 4738.28] He says, each of them should be -[4738.28 --> 4741.12] fully convinced in their own mind. -[4741.76 --> 4743.48] And so if you are convinced of it, -[4743.76 --> 4744.56] follow through. -[4744.56 --> 4747.36] Because if you don't, you're -[4747.36 --> 4748.06] compromising. -[4749.64 --> 4751.38] And as people, we compromise for -[4751.38 --> 4753.06] all sorts of reasons, right? -[4753.10 --> 4754.76] Sometimes we compromise in order to -[4754.76 --> 4756.60] keep the peace, but when we keep -[4756.60 --> 4757.96] the peace, what we're doing inside -[4757.96 --> 4759.90] is judging those other people, or -[4759.90 --> 4760.88] we're judging ourselves. -[4762.20 --> 4762.32] Right? -[4762.38 --> 4764.04] Sometimes we compromise because we -[4764.04 --> 4765.24] go, yeah, you know what, I really -[4765.24 --> 4767.64] do actually want to do that, and -[4767.64 --> 4768.98] that would feel good in the moment, -[4769.10 --> 4770.12] so I'm just going to go ahead and -[4770.12 --> 4770.50] do it. -[4770.50 --> 4773.12] But if it pricks your conscience, -[4773.42 --> 4775.12] then don't do it. -[4776.40 --> 4780.24] Instead, I think that in this, there -[4780.24 --> 4782.92] is a sort of controlling principle -[4782.92 --> 4785.36] that speaks over top of all of it, -[4785.40 --> 4786.76] and you can see it in verse 8. -[4788.26 --> 4791.52] Verse 8 says, if we live, we live for -[4791.52 --> 4793.72] the Lord, and if we die, we die for -[4793.72 --> 4794.04] the Lord. -[4794.12 --> 4796.20] So whether we live or die, we belong -[4796.20 --> 4798.38] to the Lord. -[4799.80 --> 4801.30] Now, not only is this a great -[4801.30 --> 4803.36] comfort, that I belong to the Lord -[4803.36 --> 4805.82] in life and in death, right? -[4805.84 --> 4808.60] But this is also an operating -[4808.60 --> 4809.16] principle. -[4810.00 --> 4812.42] This is an operating purpose, right? -[4812.48 --> 4814.92] It is the context of our mission to -[4814.92 --> 4817.70] live for the Lord, and if it be our -[4817.70 --> 4819.00] lot, to die for Him. -[4822.04 --> 4824.20] Now, here's an important word for -[4824.20 --> 4827.02] for those of us who may be on the -[4827.02 --> 4830.26] strong side of this polarity, -[4832.04 --> 4832.30] right? -[4832.74 --> 4836.36] If you suspect that any of these -[4836.36 --> 4838.66] kinds of disputable matters may be -[4838.66 --> 4842.08] true for a brother or sister, you also -[4842.08 --> 4843.22] cannot do it. -[4845.18 --> 4845.38] Okay? -[4845.40 --> 4846.74] That's what it means to live in -[4846.74 --> 4847.14] community. -[4847.32 --> 4849.02] That's what it means to mature in -[4849.02 --> 4849.46] community. -[4849.46 --> 4853.48] That you, as strong in faith, even -[4853.48 --> 4855.68] though you fully understand Galatians -[4855.68 --> 4857.42] 5, that says, it is for freedom that -[4857.42 --> 4859.92] Christ has set me free, you willingly -[4859.92 --> 4862.50] give up that freedom. -[4862.86 --> 4865.00] You willingly offer it as a living -[4865.00 --> 4867.90] sacrifice for your brother or sister -[4867.90 --> 4869.26] in the assembly. -[4869.46 --> 4871.52] You give up your freedom for their -[4871.52 --> 4872.88] faith and obedience. -[4873.10 --> 4874.64] That's what it means to be strong. -[4875.78 --> 4878.22] This is the gospel redefining strength -[4878.22 --> 4880.12] in the mix right now. -[4880.88 --> 4883.18] To give up your rights and freedoms -[4883.18 --> 4885.86] for the faith security of a brother -[4885.86 --> 4886.64] or sister. -[4887.86 --> 4889.58] And like we said, Galatians 5 is still -[4889.58 --> 4889.90] true. -[4890.04 --> 4891.54] It is for freedom that Christ has set -[4891.54 --> 4892.72] us free, right? -[4892.96 --> 4896.78] The new reality of the gospel for -[4896.78 --> 4899.56] Christians is freedom, and that freedom -[4899.56 --> 4901.94] opens up a whole world of possibilities -[4901.94 --> 4904.36] in life and in faithfulness, even -[4904.36 --> 4905.56] dressing like this when you're -[4905.56 --> 4905.92] preaching. -[4905.92 --> 4908.48] But if it's a problem for the little -[4908.48 --> 4911.48] old lady, then I should willingly put -[4911.48 --> 4912.12] my tie on. -[4913.34 --> 4916.40] As long as the reasons why it's a -[4916.40 --> 4918.40] problem for her, we can still discuss. -[4920.44 --> 4920.88] Right? -[4921.00 --> 4922.46] Freedom opens us up. -[4922.56 --> 4924.74] But later in Galatians and in this -[4924.74 --> 4926.62] text, I think this is the point, Paul -[4926.62 --> 4928.82] says that you, my brothers and sisters, -[4928.88 --> 4930.98] were called to be free, but do not use -[4930.98 --> 4933.42] your freedom to indulge the flesh. -[4933.42 --> 4936.44] Rather, serve one another humbly in love. -[4937.28 --> 4937.62] Right? -[4937.64 --> 4938.72] You see, we've been working on this -[4938.72 --> 4940.74] conversation, this through line from -[4940.74 --> 4941.26] the beginning. -[4941.62 --> 4941.74] Right? -[4941.84 --> 4944.02] Part of serving one another humbly in -[4944.02 --> 4947.06] love is giving up our freedoms for -[4947.06 --> 4947.74] their faith. -[4949.82 --> 4952.70] And so, for example, if you are having -[4952.70 --> 4954.70] lunch with what I will call a moral -[4954.70 --> 4957.20] vegan, that is someone who believes it's -[4957.20 --> 4959.64] sinful to eat meat, you don't sit across -[4959.64 --> 4961.80] from them and order a 12-ounce prime rib. -[4964.20 --> 4964.64] Right? -[4964.70 --> 4966.94] Or if you don't want hip-hop to show up -[4966.94 --> 4969.14] in our worship, or if you do, rather, -[4969.24 --> 4970.74] want hip-hop to show up in our worship, -[4970.98 --> 4974.24] but you know that old Mrs. Ethel believes -[4974.24 --> 4976.14] that we shouldn't worship in that way, -[4976.30 --> 4977.94] then you shouldn't push that here. -[4978.80 --> 4980.66] Even if you're a worship leader who has -[4980.66 --> 4982.32] the power and the influence to pick that -[4982.32 --> 4982.88] kind of thing. -[4983.20 --> 4985.60] In fact, especially because you are a -[4985.60 --> 4986.92] worship leader who has the power and -[4986.92 --> 4988.30] the influence to pick that kind of thing, -[4988.30 --> 4990.04] you shouldn't do it because you know -[4990.04 --> 4991.14] whom you are leading. -[4992.46 --> 4995.82] Now again, let's tread softly here, -[4996.16 --> 4998.98] and very intentionally, because you also -[4998.98 --> 5001.88] need to hear a person's opposition to -[5001.88 --> 5004.16] eating meat and therefore being vegan, -[5004.38 --> 5007.04] or your opposition to hip-hop in -[5007.04 --> 5009.38] worship needs to be connected to what -[5009.38 --> 5011.72] you believe to be biblical ideas and -[5011.72 --> 5014.14] teachings for these disputed matters, -[5014.32 --> 5017.06] if you would require us to make -[5017.06 --> 5019.26] exceptions, or if we are going to limit -[5019.26 --> 5021.42] our own freedoms in order to mature -[5021.42 --> 5022.02] your faith. -[5024.06 --> 5026.40] And that means, then, right, that your -[5026.40 --> 5028.38] reason to tell others or to require -[5028.38 --> 5030.96] others to be vegan must be based on -[5030.96 --> 5033.32] what you read in the Bible, not because -[5033.32 --> 5035.32] Ariana Grande has put a compelling tweet -[5035.32 --> 5035.58] out. -[5036.92 --> 5039.48] Similarly, if your opposition to hip-hop in -[5039.48 --> 5042.12] the church is actually an outworking of -[5042.12 --> 5044.88] racist or prejudiced ideas, we need to -[5044.88 --> 5048.28] call you out on that, because that can't -[5048.28 --> 5048.58] fly. -[5052.30 --> 5056.10] We will not passively permit to -[5056.10 --> 5061.24] continue your sin by compromising our -[5061.24 --> 5062.66] freedoms in that regard. -[5064.66 --> 5065.94] Now, here's the last point. -[5065.94 --> 5071.96] Because sometimes people will hear this -[5071.96 --> 5075.46] and they will go, oh, if I can make a -[5075.46 --> 5077.02] compelling case for anything, then that's -[5077.02 --> 5077.78] the way we need to go. -[5077.84 --> 5079.08] And then they just have to give up on -[5079.08 --> 5081.26] their deeply held values because they're -[5081.26 --> 5083.58] called to be strong and I'll allow myself -[5083.58 --> 5085.46] to be called weak if that means I get what -[5085.46 --> 5085.88] I want. -[5087.82 --> 5088.04] Right? -[5088.10 --> 5090.38] Sometimes this idea of disputable matters -[5090.38 --> 5093.66] has been abused in the past or taken -[5093.66 --> 5095.20] advantage of in the past. -[5095.58 --> 5095.70] Right? -[5095.76 --> 5097.48] Allowing for people to have differences -[5097.48 --> 5099.42] of opinions on things where the -[5099.42 --> 5102.34] scriptures don't actually present a -[5102.34 --> 5103.22] difference of opinion. -[5104.92 --> 5107.26] And so I hope you saw very clearly when -[5107.26 --> 5109.20] we outlined what scripture calls these -[5109.20 --> 5111.28] disputable matters, it's because there's -[5111.28 --> 5113.58] a history of this practice and then -[5113.58 --> 5115.32] Jesus and a New Testament author comes -[5115.32 --> 5117.80] along and says, we've redefined history -[5117.80 --> 5118.98] on that practice. -[5118.98 --> 5123.58] If the Bible doesn't redefine history on -[5123.58 --> 5126.84] a particular practice, then the commands -[5126.84 --> 5127.58] of God continue. -[5128.68 --> 5131.52] What obedience looks like continues. -[5133.40 --> 5133.94] Right? -[5134.00 --> 5136.10] And so sometimes people will use a text -[5136.10 --> 5140.54] like this to create a gray area to allow -[5140.54 --> 5143.60] for what the Bible calls sin to not be -[5143.60 --> 5145.10] treated as sin by the church. -[5145.10 --> 5147.52] That also can't happen. -[5148.70 --> 5151.32] That's also an abuse of this particular -[5151.32 --> 5152.38] text. -[5153.84 --> 5156.22] John Calvin puts it really explicitly. -[5156.46 --> 5159.64] He says, we must not, but for the sake -[5159.64 --> 5162.78] of our neighbors, we are not at liberty -[5162.78 --> 5165.56] to deviate one nail's breath from the -[5165.56 --> 5169.62] command of God that unknown pretext is -[5169.62 --> 5172.84] lawful to attempt anything but what he -[5172.84 --> 5173.66] permits. -[5175.72 --> 5176.28] Right? -[5176.36 --> 5178.76] This is not license to do whatever you -[5178.76 --> 5179.18] want. -[5179.82 --> 5182.36] This is license to use your freedom -[5182.36 --> 5185.58] to grow in the grace and knowledge of -[5185.58 --> 5187.20] our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. -[5187.84 --> 5190.58] This is license to use your freedom to -[5190.58 --> 5193.08] grow in your capacities to be obedient -[5193.08 --> 5196.56] to him and to recognize that his ways are -[5196.56 --> 5198.24] better than our ways. -[5198.94 --> 5201.46] That his design and purpose is where -[5201.46 --> 5202.82] flourishing is found. -[5204.22 --> 5206.02] And so, yes, absolutely, there are places -[5206.02 --> 5207.92] where we can have discussions and we can -[5207.92 --> 5208.76] make compromises. -[5209.14 --> 5210.72] There are places where we can say, not -[5210.72 --> 5211.74] my will, but yours. -[5212.72 --> 5214.60] But then there are also places where we -[5214.60 --> 5217.78] say, no, this is clear. -[5219.78 --> 5222.78] Living for the Lord requires us to -[5222.78 --> 5224.68] mature in our faith. -[5224.94 --> 5227.06] And for those of us who are more mature, -[5227.20 --> 5229.50] to come alongside of people right where -[5229.50 --> 5233.42] they are at and with gentleness and -[5233.42 --> 5236.26] respect walk alongside them with -[5236.26 --> 5240.14] humility and grace entering into life -[5240.14 --> 5243.32] with them and calling them towards -[5243.32 --> 5243.82] maturity. -[5245.44 --> 5249.50] That we might grow in faith together. -[5250.24 --> 5253.82] This is the task of discipleship, to -[5253.82 --> 5256.08] grow in faith together. -[5256.08 --> 5260.52] And so, have hard conversations and be -[5260.52 --> 5263.06] willing to give up deeply held values for -[5263.06 --> 5264.16] the sake of one another. -[5265.30 --> 5269.80] But do not, do not overstretch the -[5269.80 --> 5272.32] definition of disputable matters to -[5272.32 --> 5274.72] things that the Bible will not allow you -[5274.72 --> 5274.92] to. -[5275.62 --> 5277.72] Because then we are just leading one -[5277.72 --> 5282.14] another in the way, not of Jesus, but in -[5282.14 --> 5282.76] the way of the world. -[5282.76 --> 5285.68] And that's not our calling together. -[5286.90 --> 5291.36] If we are able to live this and model -[5291.36 --> 5295.22] this, we will become, and increasingly -[5295.22 --> 5299.28] so, a community that is compelling to -[5299.28 --> 5300.32] so many people. -[5300.78 --> 5303.00] Because we can enter into these difficult -[5303.00 --> 5303.64] conversations. -[5303.88 --> 5306.66] We can enter into these disputable matters -[5306.66 --> 5311.72] with grace and with mercy and with a -[5311.72 --> 5315.52] sense of calm and a presence that is not -[5315.52 --> 5318.06] anxious in and around us. -[5318.84 --> 5322.90] Instead, we can bring Christ to bear on -[5322.90 --> 5324.58] what we do and on how we be. -[5325.28 --> 5328.32] And it seems to me that that is our -[5328.32 --> 5328.78] purpose. -[5329.06 --> 5331.98] That is the call of discipleship. -[5331.98 --> 5336.62] To bring Christ to bear on these kinds of -[5336.62 --> 5338.10] disputable matters. -[5338.48 --> 5338.70] Amen? -[5338.70 --> 5340.58] Let's pray together. -[5346.02 --> 5348.16] Lord our God. -[5352.58 --> 5355.64] Lord our God, it is possible that as we -[5355.64 --> 5360.64] sit here now, our minds have moved over -[5360.64 --> 5361.24] to judgment. -[5361.24 --> 5365.64] It is possible that as we sit here now, we -[5365.64 --> 5369.82] are thinking of one or another who has -[5369.82 --> 5372.42] compromised on this or that disputable -[5372.96 --> 5376.70] matter and we are holding them to account -[5376.70 --> 5378.66] in manners that you do not. -[5378.66 --> 5379.66] Lord our God. -[5379.66 --> 5380.66] Lord our God. -[5380.66 --> 5382.98] And so I pray that you would forgive us for that. -[5384.34 --> 5386.56] Especially for those of us who lead. -[5387.94 --> 5390.80] I pray that you would open us up to these kinds of -[5390.80 --> 5392.56] relationships and realities. -[5394.70 --> 5398.12] And God, it is also possible that we sit here now -[5398.12 --> 5400.52] having heard only in part. -[5400.52 --> 5406.28] And so we think, I can do whatever I want as long as I can -[5406.28 --> 5409.74] justify it to myself and then I will justify it to you, -[5409.98 --> 5410.34] the Lord. -[5412.40 --> 5417.66] And yet, may we also recognize that you are calling us to -[5417.66 --> 5418.52] obedience. -[5419.64 --> 5423.68] That you are calling us from one degree of glory to another. -[5423.68 --> 5426.54] Father, that you are calling us to be holy. -[5430.42 --> 5433.32] And so send us out in the power of your holiness, -[5433.84 --> 5436.72] the power of your spirit to be transformed. -[5438.66 --> 5440.10] In Christ Jesus we pray. -[5440.80 --> 5441.16] Amen. -[5453.68 --> 5463.98] We live for you. -[5464.08 --> 5467.76] Worthy of every song we could ever sing -[5467.76 --> 5475.18] Worthy of all the praise we could ever bring -[5475.18 --> 5482.26] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe -[5482.26 --> 5485.26] we live for you -[5485.26 --> 5496.98] Jesus the name above every other day -[5496.98 --> 5504.38] Jesus the only one who could ever see -[5504.38 --> 5511.26] worthy in every breath we could ever breathe -[5511.26 --> 5513.26] we live for you -[5513.26 --> 5517.26] we live for you -[5517.26 --> 5525.26] holy there is no one like you -[5525.26 --> 5528.26] there is none beside you -[5528.26 --> 5533.26] open up my eyes with wonder -[5533.26 --> 5539.26] show me who you are and fill me -[5539.26 --> 5543.26] with your heart and lead me -[5543.26 --> 5549.26] in your love to those around me -[5549.26 --> 5557.26] Jesus the name above every other day -[5557.26 --> 5563.26] Jesus the only one who could ever see -[5563.26 --> 5573.26] Jesus the name above every other day -[5573.26 --> 5577.26] Jesus the only one who could ever see -[5577.26 --> 5585.26] worthy of every breath we could ever be -[5585.26 --> 5587.26] we live for you -[5587.26 --> 5589.26] we live for you -[5589.26 --> 5591.26] we live for you -[5591.26 --> 5593.26] we live for you -[5593.26 --> 5597.26] holy there is no one like you -[5597.26 --> 5601.26] there is none beside you -[5601.26 --> 5607.26] open up my eyes with wonder -[5607.26 --> 5613.26] show me who you are and fill me -[5613.26 --> 5617.26] with your heart and lead me -[5617.26 --> 5623.26] give your love to those around me -[5623.26 --> 5625.26] you -[5625.26 --> 5629.26] you -[5629.26 --> 5631.26] you -[5631.26 --> 5633.26] you -[5633.26 --> 5635.26] you -[5635.26 --> 5637.26] you -[5637.26 --> 5639.26] you -[5639.26 --> 5653.26] you -[5653.26 --> 5655.26] you -[5655.26 --> 5657.26] you -[5657.26 --> 5659.26] you -[5659.26 --> 5661.26] you -[5661.26 --> 5663.26] you -[5663.26 --> 5673.26] you -[5673.26 --> 5677.26] you -[5677.26 --> 5679.26] you -[5679.26 --> 5681.26] you -[5681.26 --> 5683.26] you -[5683.26 --> 5685.26] you -[5685.26 --> 5687.26] you -[5687.26 --> 5689.26] you -[5689.26 --> 5709.26] you -[5709.26 --> 5711.26] you -[5711.26 --> 5713.26] you -[5713.26 --> 5715.26] you -[5715.26 --> 5717.26] you -[5717.26 --> 5719.26] you -[5719.26 --> 5737.26] you -[5737.26 --> 5739.26] you -[5739.26 --> 5741.26] you -[5741.26 --> 5743.26] you -[5743.26 --> 5745.26] you -[5745.26 --> 5751.26] you -[5751.26 --> 5753.26] standing -[5753.26 --> 5755.26] you -[5755.26 --> 5757.26] you -[5757.26 --> 5759.26] you -[5759.26 --> 5765.26] you -[5765.26 --> 5767.26] you -[5767.26 --> 5769.26] you -[5769.26 --> 5771.26] you -[5771.26 --> 5773.26] you -[5773.26 --> 5781.14] of God for the journey of faith ahead. God, go before you to lead you. God, go behind you to -[5781.14 --> 5788.70] protect you. God, go beneath you to support you. And God, go beside you to befriend you. Do not -[5788.70 --> 5796.72] be afraid. Let the blessing of God come upon you today. Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love -[5796.72 --> 5800.28] and serve the Lord. Amen. -[5803.26 --> 5805.26] Amen. -[5833.26 --> 5835.26] Amen. -[5835.26 --> 5837.26] Amen. -[5837.26 --> 5839.26] Amen. -[5839.26 --> 5841.26] Amen. -[5841.26 --> 5843.26] Amen. -[5843.26 --> 5845.26] Amen. -[5845.26 --> 5847.26] Amen. -[5847.26 --> 5849.26] Amen. -[5849.26 --> 5850.26] Amen. -[5850.26 --> 5851.26] Amen. -[5851.26 --> 5852.26] Amen. -[5852.26 --> 5874.26] 答 -[5877.26 --> 5889.26] has -[5892.06 --> 5897.26] all things serve together for my salvation -[5907.26 --> 5921.26] oh -[5937.26 --> 5951.26] always by your holy spirit you assure me -[5951.26 --> 5957.26] of eternal life and make me willing and ready -[5957.26 --> 5965.26] even when i can't see my way through -[5965.26 --> 5973.26] from now on to always live for you -[5973.26 --> 5977.26] i am not my own -[5977.26 --> 5981.26] but belong -[5981.26 --> 5985.26] body and soul -[5985.26 --> 5989.26] in my life and in death -[5989.26 --> 5993.26] to you lord -[5993.26 --> 5995.26] christ my lord -[5995.26 --> 6001.26] i am not my own -[6001.26 --> 6003.26] but belong -[6003.26 --> 6007.26] body and soul -[6007.26 --> 6013.26] in my life and in death -[6013.26 --> 6015.26] to you lord -[6015.26 --> 6017.26] christ my lord -[6017.26 --> 6025.26] i am not my own -[6025.26 --> 6027.26] but belong -[6027.26 --> 6029.26] body and soul -[6029.26 --> 6033.26] in my life and in death -[6033.26 --> 6037.26] in my life and in death -[6037.26 --> 6039.26] to you lord -[6039.26 --> 6041.26] to you lord -[6041.26 --> 6045.26] christ my lord -[6045.26 --> 6047.26] and -[6047.26 --> 6049.26] and -[6049.26 --> 6051.26] and -[6051.26 --> 6053.26] and -[6053.26 --> 6055.26] and -[6055.26 --> 6057.26] and -[6057.26 --> 6059.26] and -[6059.26 --> 6061.26] and -[6061.26 --> 6063.26] and -[6063.26 --> 6065.26] and -[6065.26 --> 6067.26] and -[6067.26 --> 6069.26] and -[6069.26 --> 6071.26] and -[6071.26 --> 6073.26] and -[6073.26 --> 6087.26] and -[6087.26 --> 6089.26] and -[6089.26 --> 6091.26] and -[6091.26 --> 6105.26] and -[6105.26 --> 6107.26] and -[6107.26 --> 6109.26] and -[6109.26 --> 6123.26] and -[6123.26 --> 6125.26] and -[6125.26 --> 6127.26] and -[6127.26 --> 6129.26] and -[6129.26 --> 6143.26] and -[6143.26 --> 6145.26] and -[6145.26 --> 6147.26] and -[6147.26 --> 6149.26] and -[6149.26 --> 6151.26] and -[6151.26 --> 6153.26] and -[6153.26 --> 6155.26] and -[6155.26 --> 6167.26] and -[6167.26 --> 6169.26] and -[6169.26 --> 6171.26] and -[6171.26 --> 6173.26] and -[6173.26 --> 6175.26] and -[6175.26 --> 6177.26] and -[6177.26 --> 6179.26] and -[6179.26 --> 6209.24] Thank you. -[6209.26 --> 6239.24] Thank you. -[6239.26 --> 6269.24] Thank you. -[6269.26 --> 6299.24] Thank you. -[6299.26 --> 6329.24] Thank you. -[6329.26 --> 6359.24] Thank you. -[6359.26 --> 6389.24] Thank you. -[6389.26 --> 6419.24] Thank you. -[6419.26 --> 6449.24] Thank you. -[6449.26 --> 6479.24] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, April 28, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, April 28, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d2473ede2c82f7b6b34dc2bb6744025206ef7505..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, April 28, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,93 +0,0 @@ -• The speaker expresses confusion and frustration with the suffering in the world -• God responds by questioning the speaker's understanding of creation and the natural order -• The speaker is asked if they can control or explain the workings of nature, including the forces of creation and destruction -• The speaker admits their limitations and inability to understand certain things -• A shift in tone occurs as the speaker begins to praise and worship God, acknowledging their own inadequacy and dependence on God's power -• Chris introduces himself as a pastor at Emanuel and welcomes guests to the worship service -• Announcements are made about an upcoming worship event and membership classes. -• Announcements and invitation to worship -• Welcome and greeting from God -• Call to worship from Revelation 5:9-10 -• Song "Come, all you people" with altered lyrics -• Discussion on the song's theme and connection to Psalm 51 -• Exposition on the importance of a clean heart and holy living -• Clarification that obedience and actions are vital in making oneself holy -• Confession of sin and asking God to change hearts -• Prayer for a clean heart and new life in Christ -• Scripture reading from Psalm 51 and 1 John 4 -• Discussion of the importance of love and loving one another -• Ministry to Seafarers, including visiting ships and distributing literature -• Special offering for the Budget and the Ministry to Seafarers -• Transition from discussion of Holy Spirit to transformation in Christian life -• Use of a photo slideshow to illustrate transformation (caterpillar to butterfly, tadpole to frog, polyp to jellyfish) -• Reference to pop culture examples of transformation (Transformers, Cars movie) -• Discussion of PJ Masks and their superhero transformations -• Imagining Pastor Kevin's potential transformation -• The speaker introduces transformation in children's worship time -• A church family prayer is led by Courtney -• Announcements are made regarding Judy Dykstra's health and Amy Cron's memorial service -• Prayer requests for various individuals and families, including those dealing with illness, loss, and mental health struggles -• Prayers also requested for guidance and wisdom for the church council and new office bearers -• The speaker invites Kevin to deliver the morning message and prays for an open heart to receive it -• Discussion of Romans 14 and its relevance to the congregation -• The concept of strong and weak faith in Christianity -• Differences between strong and weak faith (duration, comfort, and reflection of righteousness, joy, and peace) -• The importance of acting in love when interacting with others in the community -• Sacrificing privileges for the sake of community harmony and demonstrating Christ's righteousness, peace, and joy -• Paul's example of not judging one another on disputable matters (eating meat) -• Being considerate of others' consciences and traditions -• The privileges granted to believers by Jesus Christ can be disputable and cause disagreement among others. -• When someone questions or is opposed to a privilege, Paul advises not forcing them on that person. -• Allowing the other person to maintain their conscience and avoid stumbling into sin is more important than exercising one's own freedom. -• Pushing matters that may cause someone to stumble against their conscience can negatively affect what God is doing in their life and sanctifying process. -• Ignoring or dismissing the needs of others for the sake of one's own freedoms can lead to disunity within the body. -• Disputable matters vs. commands in the Bible -• Importance of seeking peace and mutual edification in disputable situations -• How to discern between disputable matters and commands: looking to Scripture for guidance -• Commands that are consistently taught throughout the Bible (e.g. worshiping God, loving your neighbor) -• Distinguishing between actions required for salvation vs. actions commanded by Scripture -• Gratitude for new life in Jesus Christ leads to following commands -• Disputable matters should not be made too broad or abusive of scripture -• Scripture is consistent on certain commands, but patterns can change over time -• Examples of disputable matters include eating unclean animals, wine, Sabbath, circumcision, and tattoos -• Tattoos and their relationship to being possessed by God -• The use of tattoos as a visible mark of faith in Christianity -• Disputable verses in the Bible regarding tattoos (Leviticus) -• Cosmetics and adornments (makeup, perfume, jewelry) in relation to Scripture -• Proverbs 6:16-17 and 1 Timothy 2:9-10 as references against excessive adornment -• The story of a girl who grew up in a conservative home that believed makeup went against God's will -• A woman's secret use of makeup at school, despite her Christian upbringing and the influence of her Christian friends -• The issue of secrecy and shame surrounding the woman's actions, as opposed to openly discussing and honoring her parents' values -• Peer pressure and popularity being prioritized over faithfulness in the woman's decision-making process -• Disputable matters in Christianity, such as infant baptism vs believer's baptism, and their implications for church leaders and young adults -• Disputability of women in office in Christianity -• Scripture's ambiguity on the topic -• Timothy Keller's statement on disputable issues in Christianity -• The importance of acknowledging and respecting disagreement among Christians -• The need for caution when assigning topics as "disputable" -• The role of biblical commands and their relation to disputed matters in the church -• Engagement with fellow believers on disputed matters, guided by biblical principles -• Discussion of Romans 14 and its focus on disputable matters -• Mention of the kingdom of God and the attributes of righteousness, peace, and joy in relation to it -• Importance of not forcing one's beliefs on others and accepting differing views -• Paul's suggestion to avoid harming others with whom Christ died by sacrificing privileges for their benefit -• The sacrifice of Christ for all believers -• The distinction between belief and action in Christianity -• Keeping personal convictions private vs making them public discourse -• Proper discussion and discernment when dealing with disputable issues in the church -• Considering the impact on weaker brothers and sisters in faith when holding strong convictions -• Avoid criticizing those who disagree with you -• Be willing to review and rethink your position based on biblical data -• Balance the need to discuss disputed matters with humility, peace, and joy -• Prioritize encouraging and edifying one another over winning arguments -• Seek wisdom and discernment in conversations about disputable matters -• Pray for God's peace and guidance in relationships where disagreements arise. -• Prayer and devotion -• Legacy of faithfulness passed down to future generations -• Encouragement to stay faithful and devoted in the face of challenges -• Reflection on Christ's victory and the hope of eternal life -• Repetitive requests for prayer and acknowledgement of God's presence -• Frequent use of the phrase "Oh, my God" -• Multiple instances of a speaker expressing shock or surprise -• A pattern of repetitive expressions without any additional context or content -• 13 consecutive instances of gratitude expressed with the phrase "Thank you" \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, April 28, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, April 28, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3c43e1a89fd5870b96df54d0920315d2ad39a042..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, April 28, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1603 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 92.00] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 122.00] Thank you. -[122.00 --> 129.84] I said, God, I do not understand this world. -[129.84 --> 134.84] Everything is dying and broken. -[134.84 --> 140.78] Why do I see nothing but suffering? -[140.78 --> 150.78] God, I'm asking, could this be your plan? -[150.78 --> 156.58] Sin has taken hold of this whole land. -[156.78 --> 162.36] Will you not say anything else to me? -[162.36 --> 176.74] He said, where were you the day that I measured? -[176.74 --> 187.56] Sung the bass and stretched the line over all the earth and carved out its cornerstone. -[187.56 --> 201.94] Where were you the day that I spoke and told the sun to split the night open? -[201.94 --> 207.62] Called the morning dawn with its light to shore. -[211.94 --> 217.36] Who shot empty ocean with stone doors? -[217.72 --> 222.36] Marked the reach of tides on those new shores. -[222.36 --> 227.36] On the day the waves rose and first broke forth. -[231.36 --> 236.24] Have you seen the springs of that crazy? -[236.24 --> 241.24] Walked the caverns carved in the black sea? -[241.24 --> 246.24] Through the gates of darkness there on its floor? -[246.24 --> 253.24] Have you seen the armory I hold? -[253.24 --> 255.24] Have you seen the armory I hold? -[255.24 --> 259.24] Snow and hail are stacked up in silos. -[259.24 --> 264.24] For the times of trouble and war and strife. -[264.24 --> 271.24] Can you raise your voice to the storm cloud? -[271.24 --> 276.24] Hold the thunder and surrender and ring out. -[277.24 --> 281.24] Does the lightning ask you where it should strike? -[281.24 --> 287.24] Who has cleft a channel for torrents? -[287.24 --> 292.24] Reign to sprout the desert with forests? -[292.24 --> 298.24] In the wilderness that my hand has filled. -[299.24 --> 304.24] Can you hunt the prey for young lions? -[304.24 --> 308.24] Can you lose the cords of all riders? -[308.24 --> 311.24] Can you lose the cords of all riders? -[311.24 --> 314.24] Is this whole world bending me? -[314.24 --> 316.24] Need your will? -[319.24 --> 324.24] I spoke to things I did not understand. -[325.24 --> 329.24] Things too wonderful for me. -[330.24 --> 334.24] Although I had no right to ask. -[334.24 --> 340.24] My well brave in your Physical alimentos. -[340.24 --> 343.24] Don't be seen the inspire I have created. -[343.24 --> 344.24] Heroic Yoges -[344.24 --> 345.24] During our offspring areипma могils in separation. -[345.24 --> 346.92] Buny음� -[346.92 --> 349.24] Can you read it? -[349.24 --> 356.24] Aon przeddenant of laughing! -[356.24 --> 359.24] droite -[359.24 --> 362.24] 2 -[362.24 --> 373.84] All my words fall short -[373.84 --> 378.40] I got nothing new -[378.40 --> 383.06] How could I express -[383.06 --> 387.44] All my gratitude -[387.44 --> 392.30] I could sing these songs -[392.30 --> 396.92] As I often do -[396.92 --> 402.14] But every song must end -[402.14 --> 406.20] And you'll never do -[406.20 --> 410.66] So I throw up my hands -[410.66 --> 414.26] And praise you again and again -[414.26 --> 421.12] Cause all that I have is a hallelujah -[421.12 --> 425.02] Hallelujah -[425.02 --> 428.80] And I know it's not much -[428.80 --> 432.50] But I've nothing else fit for a king -[432.50 --> 436.26] Except for a heart singing -[436.26 --> 438.36] Hallelujah -[438.36 --> 442.36] Hallelujah -[442.36 --> 451.36] I've got one response -[451.36 --> 455.42] I've got one -[455.42 --> 456.22] I've got one -[456.22 --> 461.22] With my arms stretched wide -[461.22 --> 466.22] I will worship you -[466.22 --> 470.56] So I'll throw up my hands -[470.56 --> 474.22] And praise you again and again -[474.22 --> 475.32] That's what I love -[475.32 --> 477.38] Cause all that I have -[477.38 --> 480.08] Is a hallelujah -[480.08 --> 481.58] Hallelujah -[481.58 --> 484.96] Hallelujah -[484.96 --> 488.84] And I know it's not much -[488.84 --> 492.84] But I've nothing else fit for a king -[492.84 --> 496.20] Except for a heart singing -[496.20 --> 498.34] Hallelujah -[498.34 --> 503.04] Hallelujah -[503.04 --> 528.04] Oh, don't you get shy -[528.04 --> 556.04] Good morning -[556.04 --> 582.06] Hey, one person. All right, let's try again. Good morning! Hey, there we go. Excellent. Welcome to worship. A special welcome if you are a guest with us this morning. My name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors here at Emanuel, and it's our privilege to gather together to worship our good God in the name of Jesus. -[582.06 --> 595.38] We have a couple announcements before we begin. First, an invitation for you. This evening at 6 p.m., we are hosting a worship event that we're calling Come Holy Spirit. -[595.38 --> 608.66] And we're going to gather to sing some songs and to learn about the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives and in our faith and to worship God in perhaps a new or a different way than we ordinarily do. -[608.66 --> 624.38] And so please come at 6 p.m. to worship our good God together in the power of the Spirit. If you have any questions about that, you can grab me or Pastor Kevin after the service or Sarah, who's somewhere. Sarah's on the piano. You can talk to her about it. -[624.38 --> 629.52] And Robin is over there. You can talk to her about it as well. We'd love to have you join us for that. -[630.42 --> 648.30] Additionally, we are in the season where we're talking about membership class and pastor's class for those of you who might want to do profession of faith or perhaps if you have not been baptized, you're thinking about baptism and professing, declaring your love for Jesus and his love for you in that way. -[648.30 --> 657.58] I would love to meet you and talk to you about that. And so you can grab me at the Connect booth following our worship together. Love to have that conversation with you. -[658.68 --> 666.88] I think that's all we have for announcements this morning. And so I'm going to invite you as you are able to stand. We can be ushered into the presence of God together. -[666.88 --> 682.24] At this point in our service, we receive God's greeting. And that's the way that we mark that God has not only called us here and invited us here, but that by his Spirit, he carries us into his very presence. -[683.30 --> 689.48] That God is here among us. And when we enter his presence, we receive from him his grace and his mercy. -[689.48 --> 696.58] And he speaks his name over us as a new people. And so hear this greeting of God to you. -[696.68 --> 703.30] And then as we are greeted by God, we invite you to turn to those around you and to welcome them into worship as well. -[703.70 --> 706.90] Please remember, not everybody likes handshakes or hugs. -[707.68 --> 712.68] And so head nods and fist bumps are perfectly acceptable ways to welcome people into worship together. -[713.30 --> 714.74] Receive the greeting of our good God. -[714.74 --> 727.68] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[728.76 --> 729.08] Amen. -[729.80 --> 730.90] Let's worship God this morning. -[744.74 --> 746.74] Amen. -[774.74 --> 776.92] Good morning, everyone. -[777.16 --> 780.94] Our call to worship this morning is from Revelations 5, where it says, -[781.50 --> 783.26] And they sang a new song, saying, -[783.60 --> 787.60] You are worthy to take the scroll and open its seals, because you were slain. -[788.10 --> 793.62] And with your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe, language, people, and nation. -[793.96 --> 798.98] You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth. -[798.98 --> 799.06] Amen. -[804.74 --> 824.90] Come, all you people, come praise you, make them. -[824.90 --> 834.16] Come all you people, come praise your name -[834.16 --> 837.60] Come now and worship the Lord -[837.60 --> 843.70] Come all you people, come praise your Savior -[843.70 --> 848.30] Come all you people, come praise your Savior -[848.30 --> 852.98] Come all you people, come praise the Savior -[852.98 --> 857.24] Come now and worship alone -[857.60 --> 860.32] No blood you needeth -[860.36 --> 863.16] No place is herein' -[863.16 --> 864.82] No blood you needeth -[864.82 --> 867.48] Correct台灣 -[867.60 --> 869.32] No blood you needeth -[869.32 --> 871.86] No place is herein' -[871.86 --> 876.40] Come now and worship alone -[876.40 --> 879.16] No blood you needeth -[879.16 --> 881.54] Otherwise demonic -[881.54 --> 890.14] Do y'all in the world, come ask in line. -[890.14 --> 894.14] Do y'all in worship alone. -[895.74 --> 899.14] Do y'all in worship alone. -[911.54 --> 941.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[941.54 --> 971.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[971.54 --> 1001.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1001.52 --> 1003.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1003.52 --> 1007.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1007.52 --> 1011.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1011.52 --> 1013.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1013.52 --> 1015.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1015.52 --> 1017.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1017.52 --> 1019.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1019.52 --> 1021.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1021.52 --> 1023.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1023.52 --> 1025.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1025.52 --> 1027.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1027.52 --> 1029.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1029.52 --> 1031.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1031.52 --> 1033.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1033.52 --> 1035.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1035.52 --> 1037.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1037.52 --> 1039.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1039.52 --> 1041.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1041.52 --> 1043.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1043.52 --> 1045.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1045.52 --> 1047.52] Do y'all in worship alone. -[1047.52 --> 1051.26] You may notice that it's not changed my heart any longer. -[1051.74 --> 1054.24] We changed it to create in me a clean heart. -[1054.44 --> 1058.02] Which is very similar thematically, lyrically, and structure. -[1058.02 --> 1069.40] And while there is nothing wrong with using a song in worship two Sundays in a row, we all have to thank Linda for letting me do a last minute change. -[1069.40 --> 1074.86] Because after listening to Pastor Chris' sermon last week, I had this song stuck in my head. -[1076.08 --> 1083.68] The disputable matters Pastor Chris outlined for us involves things which were considered clean versus unclean. -[1083.96 --> 1085.02] Holy versus not. -[1085.02 --> 1091.08] The do's and the don'ts of righteous living that were disputed upon at the time Paul wrote these passages. -[1092.32 --> 1095.92] Create in me a clean heart brings up this concept of cleanliness. -[1096.38 --> 1098.24] A clean, pure heart. -[1098.74 --> 1106.06] Something the psalmist in Psalm 51, which this song is directly drawing its lyrics from, is petitioning God for. -[1106.06 --> 1115.10] We cannot make ourselves holy through the actions we do, and yet our obedience to God, which involves how we act, is vital. -[1116.10 --> 1120.30] From one of McLaurin's expositions on the Psalms, he writes, -[1120.76 --> 1127.44] God's Holy Spirit, given to a man, makes the human spirit holy, and then makes it right and free. -[1128.44 --> 1131.32] It is the disposition of the heart that matters. -[1131.32 --> 1135.16] What are our purposes in these disputable matters? -[1135.94 --> 1137.40] The heart of God knows. -[1138.40 --> 1142.32] As we will hear from Kevin about how a maturing faith leads, -[1142.98 --> 1148.84] let us join our voices together once again to confess our sinful nature, our impure hearts, -[1149.40 --> 1151.40] asking God to change our hearts, -[1152.06 --> 1153.64] creating a clean heart within us, -[1153.64 --> 1157.02] one that is right with God and free in new life, -[1157.48 --> 1158.78] and from that freedom, -[1159.20 --> 1163.80] lead in a way that brings others to daily confession and new life in Christ. -[1163.80 --> 1172.80] break in we have realized. -[1172.80 --> 1182.42] Create in me a clean heart, oh God, -[1182.42 --> 1188.48] And進ic3 emailed us here and within me. -[1188.48 --> 1198.28] Create in me and lead my heart, O God -[1198.28 --> 1205.24] And renew the right spirit within me -[1205.24 --> 1214.40] Cast me not away from thy presence, O Lord -[1214.40 --> 1221.50] And take not thy Holy Spirit from me -[1221.50 --> 1230.22] Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation -[1230.22 --> 1237.10] And the right spirit within me -[1237.10 --> 1246.20] Create in me a King, Lord, O God -[1246.20 --> 1253.20] And renew the right spirit within me -[1253.20 --> 1262.20] Create in me a King, Lord, O God -[1262.20 --> 1269.30] And renew the right spirit within me -[1269.30 --> 1278.30] Cast me not away from thy presence, O Lord -[1278.30 --> 1285.30] And take not thy Holy Spirit from me -[1285.30 --> 1294.40] Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation -[1294.40 --> 1301.40] And renew the right spirit within me -[1301.40 --> 1306.40] Create in me a King, Lord, O God -[1306.40 --> 1311.50] Create in me, Lord, O God -[1311.50 --> 1318.50] And renew the right spirit within me -[1318.50 --> 1323.96] Please rise for our assurance from 1 John 4, 7-11 -[1323.96 --> 1328.92] Beloved, let us love one another -[1328.92 --> 1331.14] For love is from God -[1331.14 --> 1334.34] And whoever loves has been born of God -[1334.34 --> 1335.78] And knows God -[1335.78 --> 1339.04] Anyone who does not love does not know God -[1339.04 --> 1340.72] Because God is love -[1340.72 --> 1345.48] In this the love of God was made manifest among us -[1345.48 --> 1348.34] That God sent his only Son into the world -[1348.34 --> 1350.94] So that we might live through him -[1350.94 --> 1353.18] In this is love -[1353.18 --> 1355.50] Not that we have loved God -[1355.50 --> 1357.10] But that he has loved us -[1357.10 --> 1358.22] And sent his Son -[1358.22 --> 1360.56] To be the propitiation for our sins -[1360.56 --> 1363.88] Beloved, if God so loved us -[1363.88 --> 1365.90] We also ought to love one another -[1365.90 --> 1365.92] That he has loved us -[1366.80 --> 1367.00] Amen -[1367.00 --> 1369.12] Amen -[1369.12 --> 1371.04] äng -[1371.24 --> 1371.42] 03 -[1371.42 --> 1373.04] 우리 -[1373.04 --> 1375.04] Amen. -[1403.04 --> 1405.04] Amen. -[1433.04 --> 1435.04] Amen. -[1463.04 --> 1465.04] Amen. -[1493.04 --> 1495.04] Amen. -[1523.04 --> 1525.04] Amen. -[1553.04 --> 1555.04] Amen. -[1583.04 --> 1585.04] Amen. -[1613.04 --> 1615.04] Amen. -[1643.04 --> 1645.04] Amen. -[1673.04 --> 1675.04] Amen. -[1703.04 --> 1705.04] Amen. -[1733.04 --> 1735.04] Amen. -[1763.04 --> 1765.04] Amen. -[1793.04 --> 1795.04] Amen. -[1823.04 --> 1825.04] Amen. -[1825.04 --> 1827.04] Amen. -[1827.04 --> 1829.04] Good morning. -[1829.04 --> 1832.04] Today's offering is for the Budget and the Ministry to Seafarers. -[1832.04 --> 1845.04] This ministry started in 1970 by Classis BC, which was a continuation of what individuals -[1845.04 --> 1848.04] in the Lower Mainland were already doing. -[1848.04 --> 1851.04] In 2003, it expanded to Roberts Bay. -[1851.04 --> 1857.04] The Ministry to Seafarers continues to serve seafarers by visiting ships, distributing literature, -[1857.04 --> 1864.04] providing rides, gifts at Christmas, and ministering to them both on ships and at centers located -[1864.04 --> 1866.04] both downtown and Roberts Bank. -[1866.04 --> 1872.04] They are also supporting ministry centers in other BC ports, especially Port Alberni. -[1872.04 --> 1876.04] Remember, unless otherwise noted, all gifts go to the special offering. -[1876.04 --> 1878.04] Thank you. -[1881.04 --> 1882.04] You're a member of the Fortune diverse community. -[1882.04 --> 1885.04] You see within theelen of 1810 day on Cliff Preston, in the analGA driven by housekeeping opportunity. -[1885.04 --> 1886.04] You say everybody isertaically supporting Pinach mini. -[1886.04 --> 1916.02] Thank you. -[1916.04 --> 1946.02] Thank you. -[1946.04 --> 1948.04] Thank you. -[1976.04 --> 1978.04] Thank you. -[2006.04 --> 2008.04] Thank you. -[2036.04 --> 2038.04] Thank you. -[2066.04 --> 2068.04] Thank you. -[2068.04 --> 2070.04] Thank you. -[2070.04 --> 2072.04] Thank you. -[2072.04 --> 2074.04] Thank you. -[2102.04 --> 2103.04] Thank you. -[2103.04 --> 2103.56] Okay. -[2103.56 --> 2106.52] Do you guys know what we've been, can you guys recall what we've been talking about -[2106.52 --> 2107.76] in children's worship time? -[2108.76 --> 2109.20] No? -[2109.32 --> 2111.62] Do you know what book we're busy studying right now? -[2112.04 --> 2112.70] Book of the Bible? -[2113.92 --> 2114.72] We'll close. -[2114.72 --> 2121.00] It's actually the same book that the moms and dads and everyone else has been working -[2121.00 --> 2121.12] on. -[2121.16 --> 2122.24] Yeah, the book of Romans. -[2122.34 --> 2123.90] We've now moved into the book of Romans. -[2124.04 --> 2129.50] So last week, Pastor Kevin talked about how the Holy Spirit comes into us, right? -[2129.54 --> 2134.08] And it can burst out of us like that big experiment you guys did on the lawn that we almost did -[2134.08 --> 2135.34] up in front of the church. -[2135.92 --> 2136.06] Yeah. -[2136.06 --> 2140.94] But now we're talking about what happens moving on in your Christian life. -[2141.06 --> 2144.88] So the big word we're talking about today is transformation. -[2146.18 --> 2147.54] Do you guys know what that word is? -[2148.10 --> 2149.06] Have you heard that word before? -[2149.30 --> 2151.96] It's like when there's like a big change that happens, right? -[2151.96 --> 2154.64] So there's transformation happens all over the place. -[2154.70 --> 2156.40] So we have a little photo slideshow. -[2156.76 --> 2164.28] I'm going to ask you guys to show your smarts and tell me what do you think the first picture -[2164.28 --> 2169.18] transforms into and the second picture will show us what it transformed. -[2169.56 --> 2170.44] So this is it. -[2170.50 --> 2171.04] We'll start easy. -[2171.16 --> 2172.18] What do you think this one turns into? -[2172.82 --> 2174.18] Turns into a butterfly, right? -[2174.30 --> 2179.34] It's a caterpillar that turns into a beautiful butterfly, the monarch butterfly. -[2179.68 --> 2179.86] Okay. -[2179.90 --> 2180.54] What about this one? -[2180.54 --> 2181.92] Ooh. -[2183.16 --> 2184.12] What is that? -[2184.34 --> 2185.10] It's a tadpole? -[2185.56 --> 2187.76] It turns into a frog. -[2188.04 --> 2188.50] Good one. -[2188.92 --> 2189.64] Oh, okay. -[2190.64 --> 2190.96] Ooh. -[2191.38 --> 2192.50] We're getting tricky now. -[2192.98 --> 2194.30] What is that? -[2195.42 --> 2196.74] That's a polyp. -[2197.96 --> 2199.94] Do you know what a polyp turns into? -[2201.36 --> 2202.20] We'll see. -[2202.38 --> 2202.52] Oh. -[2203.34 --> 2203.78] Oh. -[2204.12 --> 2205.86] Into a giant jellyfish. -[2206.06 --> 2206.80] Little polyps. -[2206.90 --> 2209.44] They grow and start on the bottom of the seafloor. -[2209.44 --> 2210.22] All right. -[2210.26 --> 2211.40] Here's maybe we'll swing a little. -[2211.56 --> 2215.38] We'll swing a little to maybe like our current pop culture stuff. -[2215.50 --> 2216.26] So here we are. -[2216.34 --> 2219.50] What does this guy turn into? -[2221.04 --> 2221.94] A car. -[2222.18 --> 2228.30] So what TV show or movie has cars that turn into? -[2228.54 --> 2229.66] The movie cars. -[2229.82 --> 2230.68] The movie cars? -[2230.78 --> 2230.98] Oh, yeah. -[2230.98 --> 2231.70] That's a good movie. -[2232.28 --> 2232.68] Yeah. -[2233.18 --> 2233.66] Yeah. -[2233.72 --> 2235.14] What does this race car turn into? -[2235.98 --> 2237.48] There's transformers. -[2237.72 --> 2238.54] They're robots. -[2239.16 --> 2241.52] It turns into a robot. -[2241.68 --> 2245.10] This is the car Bumblebee and he turns into a robot. -[2246.24 --> 2246.80] Cool, right? -[2246.96 --> 2247.08] Yeah. -[2247.28 --> 2247.48] Okay. -[2247.54 --> 2249.22] This next one also could be a little tricky. -[2249.60 --> 2249.76] Oh. -[2250.14 --> 2251.26] Do you guys know these guys? -[2251.62 --> 2253.90] I think their names are Connor, Greg. -[2254.18 --> 2254.34] Yeah. -[2254.42 --> 2255.20] PJ Masks. -[2255.26 --> 2256.14] What do they turn into? -[2256.96 --> 2257.78] Cat Boy. -[2257.96 --> 2258.62] Cat Boy. -[2258.62 --> 2259.70] And Gecko and Owlette. -[2259.74 --> 2260.84] And Gecko and Owlette. -[2261.00 --> 2263.02] Oh, you guys are smart. -[2263.78 --> 2266.24] I bet you a lot of the adults didn't know that. -[2266.36 --> 2266.54] Hey? -[2267.44 --> 2267.80] Yep. -[2268.72 --> 2269.68] We have one last one. -[2269.72 --> 2272.88] I mean, this stuff comes from the internet, so I don't even always know the answers. -[2273.02 --> 2274.44] There's one last I think we have. -[2274.88 --> 2275.06] Oh. -[2275.62 --> 2276.06] What? -[2277.18 --> 2280.90] What do we think Pastor Kevin would transform into? -[2281.94 --> 2282.30] A what? -[2282.60 --> 2283.38] A preacher. -[2283.86 --> 2284.20] Okay. -[2284.34 --> 2285.24] Any other ideas? -[2285.24 --> 2287.14] A pastor? -[2287.14 --> 2287.26] A preacher? -[2287.96 --> 2288.40] Okay. -[2288.88 --> 2289.22] Yeah. -[2289.26 --> 2292.12] It would be nice if he grew up into a preacher. -[2292.70 --> 2292.88] Okay? -[2293.24 --> 2293.72] Yeah. -[2294.06 --> 2295.06] Any other ideas? -[2295.94 --> 2299.14] I don't know what the internet says, but... -[2300.32 --> 2300.64] Oh. -[2301.00 --> 2301.18] Yeah. -[2301.92 --> 2302.44] Yep. -[2302.70 --> 2303.14] Yeah. -[2304.64 --> 2306.10] I mean, this is what the internet... -[2306.10 --> 2309.28] You can't always believe what's on the internet, but... -[2309.28 --> 2309.86] I know. -[2310.12 --> 2310.62] I know. -[2311.08 --> 2311.54] Yeesh. -[2311.88 --> 2312.74] A clown, right? -[2313.10 --> 2313.62] Yeah. -[2313.62 --> 2313.66] Yeah. -[2314.04 --> 2314.38] Well. -[2314.70 --> 2314.96] Okay. -[2315.00 --> 2317.10] We're going to talk more about transformation. -[2317.14 --> 2322.18] Both the exciting ones and the silly ones and the big ones in children's worship time. -[2322.36 --> 2326.90] But let's stand together with the congregation and we'll do the children's blessing together. -[2330.00 --> 2330.52] Ready? -[2331.04 --> 2332.96] The Lord be with you. -[2333.32 --> 2334.78] And also with you. -[2335.42 --> 2349.88] Hello. -[2349.88 --> 2363.44] Hello, my name is Courtney, and it is my privilege to lead you all in the church family prayer -[2363.44 --> 2369.72] today. Before we begin that, there's a couple of announcements from Council. The first is that -[2369.72 --> 2375.68] Judy Dykstra is now home from a brief stay in the hospital. She's doing well and is grateful to be -[2375.68 --> 2382.32] home, so praise God. And the other is from the Cron family. They will be hosting a private memorial -[2382.32 --> 2390.78] service for Amy. All right, please bow your head with me and pray. Dear Heavenly Father, thank you -[2390.78 --> 2396.72] for the opportunity for all of us together this morning. We praise you that Judy Dykstra is home -[2396.72 --> 2402.00] after a brief stay in the hospital. We're thankful that she is doing better and is able to be home -[2402.00 --> 2410.46] again. Please be near to Ryland and Laura Benny as they lost their 86-day-old baby boy, Jack. We pray -[2410.46 --> 2415.72] for peace as they navigate this new reality and that God will be very near to them during this time of -[2415.72 --> 2422.76] immense loss. Be near the family of Amy Cron as she passed away last week and as they plan a memorial -[2422.76 --> 2428.28] service for her. Give them peace and comfort as they grieve the loss of a wife, mother, and friend. -[2428.28 --> 2435.02] Be near to Rachel Skipper as her health is continuing to decline. Give her doctors wisdom -[2435.02 --> 2440.98] and bring about healing in her life. Be with Matthew, Anaya, and Ezra as this is a difficult time for the -[2440.98 --> 2448.70] whole family. We pray for God's guidance and wisdom as our church council is finalizing new office bearers -[2448.70 --> 2454.72] nominations. Be with those who will be stepping into office. Give them wisdom and thank you for those who -[2454.72 --> 2460.44] are completing their terms and for their diligent service. We lift up those who are dealing with -[2460.44 --> 2467.60] illness and ask for your healing touch upon their lives. We also lift up those who are mourning the loss -[2467.60 --> 2473.38] of a loved one, feeling the deep ache of their absence. Provide them with comfort and solace during this time -[2473.38 --> 2480.84] of grief. Envelop them in your loving embrace. Be near to the individuals who are grappling with mental health, -[2480.84 --> 2486.14] a struggle that often feels isolating and overwhelming. Shine your light into their lives, -[2486.56 --> 2491.22] offering hope and a sense of your nearness. Provide them with the strength to face each day -[2491.22 --> 2497.24] and the clarity to see your hand at work in their lives. Be with all the ministries that are beginning -[2497.24 --> 2502.92] to wind down for the season. I pray that the ministries were impactful during this past year. -[2503.28 --> 2508.64] Thank you for all of the people who stepped up and volunteered and who make the ministries possible. -[2508.64 --> 2514.68] Helpful the summer to be a time of rest and restoration. Be with those who are unemployed -[2514.68 --> 2520.76] or underemployed. Provide clarity in their choices, ensuring that each step taken aligns with your will -[2520.76 --> 2526.80] and leads them to opportunities for growth and fulfillment. We pray for those currently -[2526.80 --> 2532.00] navigating conflicts, whether in personal relationships, workplaces, or broader communities. -[2532.76 --> 2537.78] Fill their hearts with your love, patience, and kindness as they respond to challenging situations. -[2537.78 --> 2544.82] Be with Kevin as he delivers us your word today. Bless the message. May it be your word spoken through him. -[2544.82 --> 2550.22] And give us open hearts to receive the message. We pray this all in Jesus' most holy name. Amen. -[2550.22 --> 2568.10] I learned today that you shouldn't make fun of Mike Prince in children's worship time, I'll tell you that. -[2569.68 --> 2576.68] You know deja vu, like something happens around you or in your context or your life that you're positive you've experienced before? -[2576.68 --> 2580.42] That's a surefire way that there's a glitch in the matrix, that's for sure. -[2581.58 --> 2585.38] Some of you today are going to feel a little bit of deja vu right now, -[2585.38 --> 2589.32] because today is going to seem a little bit like that from this moment on. -[2589.38 --> 2595.42] That's because today we're going to be looking at the second half of Romans 14. -[2595.80 --> 2601.06] So we're going to read it in a second, but at first glance it's going to be saying some very similar things -[2601.06 --> 2608.66] to what we looked at last week, and that's okay. Just sort of consider this as phase two of Romans 14. -[2608.82 --> 2613.94] Pastor Chris led us very well through phase one last week, and now we'll enter phase two on this topic. -[2614.04 --> 2620.92] Actually, technically we're in like phase 34 of our 39 phase Romans sermon series, -[2621.12 --> 2623.98] and I know this because I had to count to say those numbers. -[2623.98 --> 2630.18] But either way, if this seems similar to last week, that's okay, because there are similarities. -[2631.00 --> 2637.28] But I also know and I pray that you'll be able to hear God's voice and God speak through his word this morning. -[2638.48 --> 2642.02] So if you've got your Bibles, I invite you to please open those up at the moment. -[2642.12 --> 2644.58] You can also turn on your Bible apps on your phone. -[2644.58 --> 2649.02] You can grab a Bible from the back if you wish and turn with me to Romans 14, -[2649.02 --> 2653.66] and we are going to read verses 13 through 23 this morning. -[2654.72 --> 2657.36] Romans 14, 13 to 23, it says this. -[2659.00 --> 2662.68] Therefore, let us stop passing judgment on one another. -[2663.56 --> 2669.20] Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister. -[2669.80 --> 2676.24] I am convinced, being fully persuaded in the Lord Jesus, that nothing is unclean in itself. -[2676.82 --> 2682.02] But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for that person, it is unclean. -[2682.02 --> 2688.26] If your brother or sister is distressed because of what you eat, you are no longer acting in love. -[2689.54 --> 2693.48] Do not by your eating destroy someone for whom Christ died. -[2694.54 --> 2699.00] Therefore, do not let what you know is good be spoken of as evil. -[2699.00 --> 2707.06] For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. -[2708.86 --> 2715.28] Because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and receives human approval. -[2715.28 --> 2720.98] Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. -[2721.40 --> 2723.84] Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. -[2724.14 --> 2729.08] All food is clean, but it is wrong for a person to eat anything that causes someone else to stumble. -[2729.56 --> 2736.74] It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or do anything else that will cause your brother or sister to fall. -[2736.74 --> 2742.24] So whatever you believe about these things, keep between yourself and God. -[2742.66 --> 2746.28] Blessed is the one who does not condemn himself by what he approves. -[2746.96 --> 2750.24] But whoever has doubts is condemned if they eat. -[2750.74 --> 2752.68] Because their eating is not from faith. -[2753.40 --> 2756.48] And everything that does not come from faith is sin. -[2757.16 --> 2758.30] The word of the Lord. -[2758.30 --> 2769.74] So last week, Pastor Chris helped us understand what Paul means when he discusses those with weak faith and those with strong faith. -[2770.30 --> 2775.22] If you listen to the Welcome to the Narthex podcast, which there you go, is your shameful plug. -[2775.40 --> 2776.00] Way to go, me. -[2776.36 --> 2781.00] If you listen to that, Pastor Chris, Josh, and I continue to sort of flesh that out even further. -[2781.00 --> 2788.84] To recap that a bit briefly, those with weak faith are not necessarily those brand new to Christianity, though that can be true, -[2789.36 --> 2793.80] or those who are questioning their faith, though again that can be true. -[2794.32 --> 2801.46] And those with strong faith are not necessarily those who have been a Christian all their lives, though again that can be true, -[2801.78 --> 2805.48] nor are they those who never question anything about their faith. -[2805.48 --> 2811.16] And dare I say, if that's true, I'd suggest they're more likely in the weak faith department. -[2812.62 --> 2816.86] No, being strong in your faith means that the gospel truth of Jesus Christ, -[2817.02 --> 2821.42] his life, his death, his resurrection, has taken a firm stronghold in your heart. -[2821.74 --> 2826.12] And the fruits of the Spirit are evident in your life and in the world around you. -[2826.80 --> 2830.94] Being weak in your faith means that the gospel truth, while still present in your life, -[2830.94 --> 2836.08] is still establishing that stronghold, no matter how long you have been a believer for. -[2836.72 --> 2840.06] So being strong in your faith is not about duration or comfort, -[2840.06 --> 2845.18] but more about how your life reflects this righteousness, joy, and peace -[2845.18 --> 2850.30] of Christ's gospel in the world around you. -[2851.04 --> 2853.40] We'll look at that theme a little bit more closely today, -[2853.48 --> 2855.42] but that's sort of the barometer we're working with. -[2855.42 --> 2863.48] Is God's righteousness, joy, and peace on display because of the salvation you've received in Christ? -[2864.20 --> 2866.14] If so, that's strong faith. -[2867.16 --> 2871.06] Now, I recap that because today Paul says, sorry, -[2871.14 --> 2874.36] that after hearing everything that he's written for the past 12 verses, -[2874.66 --> 2877.34] now granted, Paul didn't write this letter with verses in it. -[2877.40 --> 2879.32] We added those later, but you see what I'm doing here. -[2879.40 --> 2881.92] Paul says, therefore, after hearing everything that I've written, -[2881.98 --> 2883.94] everything that he has written over these past 12 verses, -[2883.94 --> 2887.58] remember, stop passing judgment on one another. -[2888.70 --> 2893.22] Basically, if there's a disputable matter at hand, just chill, everyone. -[2893.62 --> 2898.62] Relax. Stop putting up barriers and obstacles in front of each other. -[2899.52 --> 2900.40] Just get along. -[2903.10 --> 2909.30] Today's text is about modeling Christ's righteousness, peace, and joy in your life -[2909.30 --> 2910.84] to those believers around you. -[2910.84 --> 2913.14] In fact, that's the big idea today. -[2913.72 --> 2918.54] To model Christ means sacrificing our God-given privileges -[2918.54 --> 2923.56] for the righteousness, peace, and joy of the body of Christ. -[2924.68 --> 2925.86] All right, let's dig in a little. -[2927.20 --> 2932.56] The first way Paul calls us to operate in community is by acting in love. -[2933.20 --> 2935.94] Well, Paul uses an example of how not to act in love, -[2935.94 --> 2937.10] but the point remains. -[2937.20 --> 2938.30] Verse 15 there. -[2938.92 --> 2942.00] If your brother or sister is distressed because of what you eat, -[2942.06 --> 2944.80] you are no longer acting in love. -[2945.66 --> 2947.58] Paul is using food again in this example. -[2947.66 --> 2951.54] If you remember last time, some Jews in this church who have come to know Christ, -[2952.18 --> 2956.64] they were still living under the belief that certain animals were unclean to eat. -[2957.34 --> 2960.62] Their consciences would not let them eat certain types of meat. -[2960.62 --> 2964.68] Well, many Gentiles, however, were not so concerned with that. -[2965.06 --> 2965.98] They did eat meat. -[2966.46 --> 2968.60] But Paul is saying that, and listen to these words, -[2968.70 --> 2971.38] Paul is saying that even though he was fully persuaded, -[2971.68 --> 2976.34] fully persuaded in the Lord Jesus Christ that nothing is unclean in and of itself, -[2976.44 --> 2977.68] that's verse 14, -[2978.50 --> 2982.80] yet if anyone regards something as unclean, -[2983.34 --> 2985.04] then for that person it is unclean. -[2985.04 --> 2990.38] So even though Paul knows that eating meat, a disputable matter at the time, -[2990.52 --> 2992.36] was okay to consume, -[2992.72 --> 2996.62] even though he was fully persuaded in the Lord Jesus Christ, -[2996.94 --> 3000.16] Paul says if another brother or sister still regards this as unclean, -[3000.48 --> 3002.10] if it's not good, it's not kosher, -[3002.18 --> 3004.84] it's something that grinds against their moral compass, -[3005.24 --> 3006.62] just don't do it with them. -[3007.24 --> 3008.20] Don't eat it with them. -[3008.28 --> 3009.50] Don't eat it in front of them. -[3010.40 --> 3012.50] Even though nothing is unclean about it, -[3012.50 --> 3015.94] for the sake of your brother or sister in Christ, -[3016.20 --> 3017.64] just don't eat it with them. -[3019.08 --> 3021.10] Because if you sit there and eat it with them, -[3021.14 --> 3023.22] or if you try to persuade them to eat it with them, -[3023.24 --> 3025.08] it goes against their moral compass, -[3025.18 --> 3026.70] and that becomes a sin for them. -[3027.16 --> 3028.34] Verse 23 of our text, -[3028.66 --> 3031.12] whoever has doubts is condemned if they eat, -[3031.94 --> 3034.36] because in their eating it is not from faith, -[3034.42 --> 3036.62] and everything that does not come from faith is sin. -[3038.34 --> 3040.16] And so if you find yourselves in that position, -[3040.16 --> 3041.72] Paul is saying, he says don't argue, -[3041.72 --> 3043.60] don't fight, don't quibble, -[3043.86 --> 3047.30] don't send the latest slow cooker pulled pork recipe to them, -[3047.44 --> 3048.94] don't invite them to your luau, -[3049.20 --> 3051.44] don't do it, just drop it. -[3052.52 --> 3056.36] Be polite, be civil, show peace, -[3057.40 --> 3059.00] be a vegetarian for a meal. -[3060.28 --> 3062.20] Because to do anything else -[3062.20 --> 3065.22] would not be acting in love. -[3066.80 --> 3069.54] The privilege to eat meat in that context -[3069.54 --> 3071.58] was granted to believers by Jesus Christ, -[3071.72 --> 3073.80] but even though those privileges were granted, -[3074.30 --> 3075.82] Paul says not to force them -[3075.82 --> 3077.42] on those who may question them, -[3077.62 --> 3079.80] otherwise you might be violating their consciences -[3079.80 --> 3081.82] and causing them to stumble in sin. -[3084.64 --> 3086.90] Privileges aren't always meant to be taken up. -[3088.50 --> 3090.04] They're privileges, they're freedoms, -[3090.16 --> 3091.06] they're blessings even. -[3092.44 --> 3094.78] However, sometimes those privileges are disputable. -[3094.90 --> 3096.60] Some freedoms cause people to disagree, -[3096.74 --> 3097.78] and it's those privileges -[3097.78 --> 3100.26] that Paul says we ought to actually just put down -[3100.26 --> 3101.08] every once in a while. -[3102.12 --> 3103.64] We might just have to put away -[3103.64 --> 3105.80] for the good of a brother or sister in Christ. -[3106.04 --> 3107.54] When we don't do that, -[3108.10 --> 3110.80] when we don't sacrifice our disputable privileges -[3110.80 --> 3112.60] for the betterment of the body, -[3114.06 --> 3116.88] beyond causing others to go against their consciences, -[3116.88 --> 3118.98] Paul actually warns us of two more things -[3118.98 --> 3119.60] that could happen. -[3119.60 --> 3123.10] First, we could destroy the work -[3123.10 --> 3124.72] that God is doing in their lives. -[3125.06 --> 3126.16] Verse 20 of our text, -[3126.52 --> 3128.70] do not destroy the work of God -[3128.70 --> 3129.68] for the sake of food. -[3130.26 --> 3131.82] And again, Paul says all food is clean, -[3131.92 --> 3133.72] but it is wrong for a person to eat anything -[3133.72 --> 3135.66] that causes someone else to stumble. -[3136.50 --> 3139.90] God is at work in everyone's lives, -[3140.16 --> 3141.22] the weak and the strong. -[3141.22 --> 3144.54] If we are quick to push matters -[3144.54 --> 3146.40] that may cause someone to stumble -[3146.40 --> 3147.38] against their conscience, -[3148.20 --> 3150.46] we could negatively be affecting, -[3150.64 --> 3151.66] we could negatively affect -[3151.66 --> 3153.48] what God is doing in their lives. -[3154.84 --> 3157.48] Through the Spirit, God is sanctifying all of us. -[3157.82 --> 3159.70] He is making us all more like Christ, -[3159.86 --> 3162.84] and we are all in need of becoming more like Christ. -[3164.04 --> 3166.64] And it's our job as brothers and sisters in Christ -[3166.64 --> 3167.64] to help people grow, -[3167.76 --> 3168.78] to edify the body, -[3168.78 --> 3170.62] to encourage one another. -[3171.22 --> 3174.84] But sometimes pushing things -[3174.84 --> 3176.92] that people aren't ready to partake in -[3176.92 --> 3179.08] can cause the opposite of growth. -[3179.52 --> 3181.18] It can negatively affect -[3181.18 --> 3183.78] what God is doing in the lives of other believers. -[3184.30 --> 3186.96] And so Paul says not to destroy the work of God, -[3187.74 --> 3189.48] especially for the sake of food. -[3190.70 --> 3193.34] Don't hinder what God is doing. -[3194.76 --> 3196.26] The second thing that can happen -[3196.26 --> 3199.22] is we can cause disunity amongst the body. -[3199.22 --> 3201.68] When we push people to go against their own consciences, -[3201.88 --> 3204.32] we can push them away from what they believe. -[3204.40 --> 3206.38] We can push them away from other believers, -[3207.22 --> 3208.14] from their own faith. -[3208.44 --> 3209.68] Again, in a roundabout way, -[3209.98 --> 3211.36] Paul is saying when you find yourself -[3211.36 --> 3212.40] in one of these situations, -[3212.64 --> 3214.84] in a situation where you know you have the freedom, -[3215.10 --> 3216.98] you have the privilege in Christ from this, -[3217.44 --> 3219.16] but the other person doesn't see it that way, -[3219.60 --> 3222.82] in a situation where a disputable matter is at hand, -[3222.82 --> 3224.60] instead of asking, -[3224.96 --> 3227.36] how can I enjoy my privilege in this moment? -[3228.58 --> 3229.46] Ask yourself, -[3230.08 --> 3232.64] what can I do here that will lead to peace -[3232.64 --> 3234.86] with my brother or sister in Christ? -[3236.48 --> 3239.98] What can I do here that will lead to peace in this moment? -[3241.86 --> 3245.04] Don't push to try to live how you want to live, -[3245.08 --> 3246.32] even if you know it's permittable. -[3246.32 --> 3250.44] Ask, what can I do here to bring peace into the mix -[3250.44 --> 3251.58] in this situation? -[3253.08 --> 3255.62] We need to follow Paul's words here in verse 19. -[3256.06 --> 3258.88] Let us therefore make every effort -[3258.88 --> 3262.82] to do what leads to peace and mutual edification. -[3265.32 --> 3267.24] Those who are skeptical to do certain things -[3267.24 --> 3269.62] because it goes against what they believe, -[3270.70 --> 3272.98] sorry, what they believe is faithful living to Jesus Christ, -[3272.98 --> 3275.48] they are not to violate their own consciences. -[3276.76 --> 3279.76] But those who do not have those same reservations -[3279.76 --> 3282.52] need to avoid encouraging those who do -[3282.52 --> 3286.10] to also not violate those same consciences. -[3287.70 --> 3292.72] And again, all of that applies not to commands -[3292.72 --> 3293.82] that we find in Scripture, -[3294.66 --> 3296.78] but of course to disputable matters. -[3296.90 --> 3299.14] Now, you've heard me say disputable matters -[3299.14 --> 3300.42] about a half a dozen times. -[3300.42 --> 3302.76] If you've been listening and checking a little box on your notes, -[3302.82 --> 3303.34] it's been eight. -[3303.60 --> 3304.10] I counted. -[3304.10 --> 3308.18] Also last week, Chris used it a lot of times too, -[3308.26 --> 3308.96] but I didn't count, -[3309.02 --> 3311.04] so I don't know how many times he used the phrase -[3311.04 --> 3312.18] disputable matters. -[3313.34 --> 3314.56] But what are these? -[3314.70 --> 3316.74] What are these disputable matters then? -[3316.84 --> 3319.06] Paul talks about meat in this passage. -[3319.24 --> 3321.04] Wine actually gets mentioned too. -[3321.16 --> 3323.24] Last week, Pastor Chris went through a few more of them. -[3323.30 --> 3326.10] He talked about a sacred days and circumcision -[3326.10 --> 3327.92] and even marriage and celibacy. -[3328.02 --> 3330.64] They can fit into this discussion as well. -[3330.64 --> 3331.36] But there's more. -[3331.68 --> 3333.44] But the more important question is, -[3333.84 --> 3336.18] how do we discern what is disputable -[3336.18 --> 3337.36] and what is commanded? -[3338.96 --> 3341.56] That's a very important distinction for this conversation. -[3341.88 --> 3343.78] Because if someone is walking in sin, -[3343.98 --> 3345.26] is walking against a command, -[3345.50 --> 3347.50] we do need to be able to hold up a mirror -[3347.50 --> 3349.22] and help them see their sin. -[3349.36 --> 3351.48] That's also part of edifying the body. -[3351.48 --> 3353.90] But if someone disagrees with a privilege -[3353.90 --> 3357.96] that we find and have received in Jesus Christ, -[3358.36 --> 3360.22] Paul is telling us for the sake of peace -[3360.22 --> 3361.86] and the work of God in their lives, -[3362.02 --> 3364.38] not to push people, to just leave it. -[3365.86 --> 3368.74] So how can we tell if something is a command -[3368.74 --> 3370.58] or if something is disputable? -[3372.58 --> 3374.62] Well, as is most often the case, -[3374.70 --> 3375.84] we can look to the Word of God. -[3375.92 --> 3377.50] We can look to Scripture to help us discern -[3377.50 --> 3378.52] the difference between the two. -[3378.52 --> 3381.78] Now, perhaps this seems overly simple, -[3381.90 --> 3382.82] but I promise you it's not. -[3382.88 --> 3383.46] The truth is, -[3383.64 --> 3385.30] if something is listed in the Bible -[3385.30 --> 3387.78] as a command for us to do, -[3387.86 --> 3388.66] for us to live out, -[3388.80 --> 3390.18] and the pattern of that command -[3390.18 --> 3391.78] does not change throughout Scripture, -[3392.84 --> 3393.66] that's a command. -[3396.78 --> 3399.20] So things like only worshiping God, -[3399.44 --> 3400.10] that's a command. -[3400.22 --> 3401.70] Things like loving your neighbor, -[3401.96 --> 3402.54] that's a command. -[3402.66 --> 3404.34] Things like not murdering people -[3404.34 --> 3406.16] or not lusting after others -[3406.16 --> 3408.08] or being sexually obedient -[3408.08 --> 3410.46] or not coveting your neighbor's belongings -[3410.46 --> 3412.56] or not stealing anything from anyone -[3412.56 --> 3415.76] or by going out and serving those around you. -[3415.82 --> 3417.16] Those are things that Scripture -[3417.16 --> 3419.82] is consistent in from cover to cover -[3419.82 --> 3422.94] in laying out what us as believers are to do. -[3423.44 --> 3425.32] And again, these commands, -[3425.56 --> 3427.02] these are not things we must do -[3427.02 --> 3428.04] in order to be saved. -[3428.36 --> 3430.10] Remember that we've learned over and over again -[3430.10 --> 3431.24] throughout this book of Romans -[3431.24 --> 3432.14] and throughout Scripture -[3432.14 --> 3433.34] that that's not true. -[3433.38 --> 3434.34] But these commands, -[3434.76 --> 3436.24] Christ calls us to, -[3436.34 --> 3438.06] to follow because of our gratitude -[3438.06 --> 3439.74] for the new life that we have received -[3439.74 --> 3441.54] in Jesus Christ's life, death, and resurrection. -[3443.46 --> 3444.84] So commands exist. -[3446.30 --> 3448.28] However, some like to broaden the spectrum -[3448.28 --> 3449.88] of disputable matters -[3449.88 --> 3452.94] to include things that shouldn't be disputed. -[3453.72 --> 3455.72] But that becomes an abuse of this text. -[3456.74 --> 3457.66] See, in this very letter, -[3457.74 --> 3459.54] this very letter that Paul pens here, -[3459.54 --> 3461.80] Paul goes over lots of ways -[3461.80 --> 3462.96] that we are called to live -[3462.96 --> 3465.08] and a number of sins -[3465.08 --> 3466.80] that so easily entangle us. -[3467.76 --> 3468.42] Sins of greed, -[3468.86 --> 3469.62] sins of slander, -[3469.84 --> 3471.06] sins of sexual immorality, -[3471.22 --> 3472.56] sins of envious thoughts -[3472.56 --> 3474.98] and actions. -[3475.34 --> 3476.30] If you want a refresher, -[3476.38 --> 3478.46] read Romans 1 or 2 or 3 or 4. -[3478.56 --> 3478.98] They're there. -[3479.98 --> 3480.48] They're clear. -[3482.40 --> 3484.68] We can't make this category -[3484.68 --> 3486.94] of disputable matters too broad -[3486.94 --> 3488.44] lest we start going against -[3488.44 --> 3490.60] the actual commands and callings of God -[3490.60 --> 3492.28] that he has in our lives. -[3493.94 --> 3494.42] However, -[3494.90 --> 3496.26] while Scripture is consistent -[3496.26 --> 3497.04] about commands -[3497.04 --> 3497.96] that we are called to follow, -[3498.04 --> 3499.02] there are examples -[3499.02 --> 3500.66] of patterns in Scripture -[3500.66 --> 3502.36] changing throughout -[3502.36 --> 3504.18] the Word of God. -[3504.32 --> 3505.68] And those patterns that change -[3505.68 --> 3506.94] is where the disputes -[3506.94 --> 3507.96] start coming in. -[3508.82 --> 3509.84] Paul mentions, of course, -[3509.92 --> 3510.42] in this text, -[3510.50 --> 3511.80] the eating of unclean animals. -[3511.86 --> 3512.34] This would have been -[3512.34 --> 3514.26] very prevalent for that church in Rome, -[3514.38 --> 3515.60] very prevalent for that day. -[3515.60 --> 3517.68] But maybe that affects us -[3517.68 --> 3518.54] a little bit less today. -[3519.86 --> 3521.40] Wine, Sabbath, circumcision, -[3521.52 --> 3522.78] like Pastor Chris mentioned last week, -[3522.82 --> 3523.90] they all fit in this theme too. -[3524.60 --> 3526.12] There are a few spots in Scripture -[3526.12 --> 3527.42] where this pattern -[3527.42 --> 3529.10] of what was allowed and forbidden -[3529.10 --> 3530.70] seems to change over time. -[3530.88 --> 3531.80] And it's those things -[3531.80 --> 3532.82] that become disputable. -[3533.08 --> 3534.54] That list is likely shorter -[3534.54 --> 3536.20] than we think it is, -[3536.66 --> 3537.56] but they are out there. -[3538.88 --> 3540.42] And we need to discern them properly. -[3540.52 --> 3540.82] I'm actually, -[3540.90 --> 3541.38] I'm going to give you -[3541.38 --> 3542.90] four examples today -[3542.90 --> 3543.96] just to give us a sense -[3543.96 --> 3544.96] for what kind of things -[3544.96 --> 3546.00] we're looking at. -[3546.12 --> 3547.36] A couple lighter ones to start. -[3547.84 --> 3548.62] First, let's start, -[3548.86 --> 3550.76] let's talk quickly about tattoos. -[3551.32 --> 3551.50] Huh? -[3552.90 --> 3554.78] Those are super popular these days. -[3555.34 --> 3555.48] Right? -[3555.54 --> 3556.32] Back in my day, -[3556.64 --> 3558.10] tattoos were so seldomly seen -[3558.10 --> 3559.10] that if someone had one, -[3559.16 --> 3560.20] they stood out like a flamingo -[3560.20 --> 3560.90] in a flock of pigeons. -[3561.74 --> 3563.22] Now, on a sunny day, -[3563.70 --> 3564.46] if you see someone -[3564.46 --> 3565.22] without a tattoo, -[3565.34 --> 3566.22] you have to do a double take -[3566.22 --> 3567.36] to make sure they're a real person. -[3567.70 --> 3568.80] They are everywhere. -[3570.38 --> 3571.12] Man, do I sound old -[3571.12 --> 3571.86] and crotchety there. -[3571.86 --> 3574.54] To the point at hand, -[3575.08 --> 3576.72] read Leviticus 19, -[3576.82 --> 3578.08] verse 28 for a second. -[3579.36 --> 3581.10] Do not put tattoo marks -[3581.10 --> 3581.96] on yourselves. -[3582.36 --> 3583.12] I am the Lord. -[3586.52 --> 3587.84] That's pretty straightforward. -[3589.70 --> 3590.62] Or is it? -[3592.42 --> 3593.80] Deuteronomy 7, verse 6 -[3593.80 --> 3595.24] and 1 Peter 4, 16 -[3595.24 --> 3596.60] talk about being possessed -[3596.60 --> 3598.00] and marked by God. -[3598.10 --> 3599.52] Isaiah 44, verse 5 -[3599.52 --> 3600.66] even says that some -[3600.66 --> 3601.58] will write on their hand, -[3601.58 --> 3602.46] the Lord's, -[3602.78 --> 3603.96] showing who they belong to -[3603.96 --> 3604.92] as a physical mark -[3604.92 --> 3607.40] of being possessed by God. -[3607.52 --> 3608.96] Tattoos are often used -[3608.96 --> 3610.08] by Christians nowadays -[3610.08 --> 3611.76] to make that invisible mark -[3611.76 --> 3613.40] of God visible. -[3614.56 --> 3615.58] Tattoos like a cross -[3615.58 --> 3616.50] or a Jesus fish -[3616.50 --> 3617.42] or a Bible verse -[3617.42 --> 3618.96] or a Hebrew or Greek word -[3618.96 --> 3619.74] that I can now read, -[3620.32 --> 3621.58] those are all prevalent -[3621.58 --> 3624.00] on the bodies of believers -[3624.00 --> 3626.00] that I personally know. -[3627.42 --> 3628.20] That's not to mention -[3628.20 --> 3628.80] other tattoos -[3628.80 --> 3630.00] that are seemingly harmless, -[3630.00 --> 3630.88] causing the question, -[3631.00 --> 3632.46] was Leviticus speaking -[3632.46 --> 3633.38] of all tattoos -[3633.38 --> 3635.74] or just the types of tattoos -[3635.74 --> 3637.18] that the surrounding nations -[3637.18 --> 3637.72] of the day -[3637.72 --> 3639.20] were using to show loyalty -[3639.20 --> 3640.10] to their false gods? -[3641.72 --> 3642.32] Now, I mean, -[3642.38 --> 3643.68] wisdom still reigns in this -[3643.68 --> 3644.50] no matter what, right? -[3644.50 --> 3645.30] You shouldn't tattoo -[3645.30 --> 3646.26] a satanic symbol -[3646.26 --> 3646.92] on your body. -[3647.00 --> 3647.72] That would be foolish. -[3647.84 --> 3648.50] That would go against -[3648.50 --> 3649.98] what God calls us to live. -[3650.02 --> 3650.92] You shouldn't tattoo -[3650.92 --> 3652.06] a Toronto Maple Leafs logo -[3652.06 --> 3652.78] on your shoulder. -[3652.90 --> 3654.32] That's like cause for concern. -[3654.62 --> 3655.38] Like there's wisdom -[3655.38 --> 3656.00] that dictates -[3656.00 --> 3656.50] what you should -[3656.50 --> 3657.08] and shouldn't do, -[3657.08 --> 3657.50] of course. -[3658.74 --> 3660.08] But tattoos in general? -[3662.12 --> 3663.02] It's disputable. -[3664.50 --> 3665.28] Or second, -[3665.42 --> 3666.32] how about cosmetics? -[3666.66 --> 3667.64] Things like makeup, -[3667.80 --> 3668.48] perfume, jewelry. -[3668.66 --> 3669.80] There's a couple spots -[3669.80 --> 3670.24] in Scripture -[3670.24 --> 3671.60] where the Bible -[3671.60 --> 3672.40] is very adamant -[3672.40 --> 3672.94] against using -[3672.94 --> 3673.80] these types of things. -[3673.96 --> 3675.10] Proverbs 6, -[3675.18 --> 3676.36] verses 16 and 17 -[3676.36 --> 3676.72] says, -[3677.04 --> 3678.44] haughty eyes are included -[3678.44 --> 3679.02] in the things -[3679.02 --> 3679.94] that God detests. -[3680.28 --> 3681.48] And in 1 Timothy 2, -[3681.54 --> 3681.98] 9 to 10, -[3682.28 --> 3682.84] women are asked -[3682.84 --> 3683.70] to dress moderately -[3683.70 --> 3686.18] without elaborate hairstyles, -[3686.56 --> 3687.22] without gold, -[3687.56 --> 3688.34] without pearls. -[3689.46 --> 3690.08] And yet, -[3690.22 --> 3690.82] in Ruth, -[3691.12 --> 3691.90] Ruth is praised -[3691.90 --> 3693.04] for dolling herself up -[3693.04 --> 3693.66] for Boaz -[3693.66 --> 3694.22] in Ruth 3, -[3694.26 --> 3694.72] verse 3, -[3694.90 --> 3696.32] and in 2 Corinthians 2, -[3696.40 --> 3696.94] verse 15, -[3697.04 --> 3697.86] Paul compares us -[3697.86 --> 3699.32] to a pleasing aroma -[3699.32 --> 3699.96] to God, -[3700.28 --> 3701.48] adorning ourselves -[3701.48 --> 3703.38] for Christ our groom. -[3705.20 --> 3706.24] It's disputable. -[3708.32 --> 3709.38] So why does this matter? -[3709.58 --> 3710.06] Well, let me tell you -[3710.06 --> 3710.50] a story quick. -[3710.50 --> 3713.24] There was this girl -[3713.24 --> 3714.08] in high school -[3714.08 --> 3714.76] who grew up -[3714.76 --> 3716.18] in a fairly conservative home, -[3716.24 --> 3717.16] and in that home, -[3717.30 --> 3718.34] they believed -[3718.34 --> 3718.84] that makeup -[3718.84 --> 3720.14] kind of went against -[3720.14 --> 3721.08] God's calling -[3721.08 --> 3721.90] for one's life. -[3722.28 --> 3723.82] This girl grew in that, -[3723.96 --> 3724.94] and she grew up -[3724.94 --> 3725.36] in this house. -[3725.42 --> 3726.16] This house didn't push -[3726.16 --> 3726.64] it on others. -[3726.76 --> 3727.20] They didn't push -[3727.20 --> 3727.92] on others to believe, -[3728.18 --> 3729.10] but that's what was -[3729.10 --> 3729.74] true for them. -[3729.86 --> 3731.06] And this girl grew up -[3731.06 --> 3731.56] in this house -[3731.56 --> 3732.54] and believed this -[3732.54 --> 3733.60] to be true for her as well. -[3734.34 --> 3735.32] One day at school, -[3735.44 --> 3735.64] though, -[3735.70 --> 3736.18] her friends, -[3736.24 --> 3737.22] who were also Christians, -[3737.70 --> 3738.80] kind of called her out on it -[3738.80 --> 3740.02] and told her -[3740.02 --> 3741.00] that her understanding -[3741.00 --> 3741.96] of what makeup was -[3741.96 --> 3742.50] was ridiculous -[3742.50 --> 3743.10] and that she should -[3743.10 --> 3743.62] just wear it. -[3744.88 --> 3745.90] So the next morning -[3745.90 --> 3746.76] on the way to school, -[3746.86 --> 3747.86] she stopped by the pharmacy, -[3748.00 --> 3748.60] bought some makeup, -[3748.72 --> 3749.44] hid it in her locker, -[3749.60 --> 3750.38] went into the bathroom, -[3750.50 --> 3751.42] put it on for the morning, -[3751.96 --> 3753.06] and had makeup on in school. -[3753.22 --> 3754.54] But before she went home, -[3755.32 --> 3756.00] she went to the bathroom -[3756.00 --> 3756.66] and wiped it off. -[3757.48 --> 3758.40] She couldn't go home -[3758.40 --> 3759.84] and show her parents -[3759.84 --> 3760.30] what she did. -[3760.98 --> 3761.92] And that became the pattern. -[3762.14 --> 3762.76] She would go to school -[3762.76 --> 3763.30] without makeup, -[3763.52 --> 3764.32] put it on for the day, -[3764.74 --> 3765.22] take it off -[3765.22 --> 3766.00] before she came home. -[3766.00 --> 3768.88] So what's the problem here? -[3770.28 --> 3771.12] Is it the makeup? -[3773.38 --> 3774.22] It's not the makeup. -[3774.46 --> 3775.20] It's the secrecy. -[3775.34 --> 3776.02] It's the shame. -[3776.18 --> 3777.22] It's the not honoring -[3777.22 --> 3778.00] one's parents -[3778.00 --> 3778.96] that becomes the problem. -[3779.24 --> 3779.90] She clearly went -[3779.90 --> 3780.84] against her own conscience -[3780.84 --> 3781.82] because she felt guilty -[3781.82 --> 3782.66] about doing it -[3782.66 --> 3784.34] and she had to hide it -[3784.34 --> 3785.26] from her folks. -[3785.36 --> 3786.96] She wasn't acting in faith. -[3788.56 --> 3788.82] And yet, -[3788.88 --> 3789.94] you feel for her too, -[3790.02 --> 3790.30] don't you? -[3790.34 --> 3791.18] You feel for her -[3791.18 --> 3793.80] because she was peer pressured -[3793.80 --> 3794.48] into doing it -[3794.48 --> 3795.36] and that peer pressure -[3795.36 --> 3796.64] forced her to pick popularity -[3796.64 --> 3797.66] over faithfulness. -[3798.92 --> 3800.18] To this passage's point, -[3800.80 --> 3801.88] her Christian friends -[3801.88 --> 3803.38] ate meat in front of her -[3803.38 --> 3805.36] and caused her -[3805.36 --> 3806.52] to go against her conscience. -[3809.06 --> 3809.86] That's what Paul's -[3809.86 --> 3810.36] getting at here. -[3810.42 --> 3811.02] There's a couple more -[3811.02 --> 3811.70] disputable matters -[3811.70 --> 3812.28] worth discussing. -[3813.02 --> 3813.82] They came up -[3813.82 --> 3815.74] in the Narthex podcast -[3815.74 --> 3816.32] this week, -[3816.38 --> 3816.90] so that's a second -[3816.90 --> 3817.50] shameless plug. -[3817.58 --> 3818.02] There you go. -[3819.24 --> 3820.18] I'm only going to mention -[3820.18 --> 3821.00] them a little bit too -[3821.00 --> 3822.06] because Josh isn't going -[3822.06 --> 3823.04] to let us get away -[3823.04 --> 3824.14] with not talking about these -[3824.14 --> 3825.20] for a while in the podcast, -[3825.32 --> 3826.02] so if you want more -[3826.02 --> 3826.94] in-depth analysis, -[3827.48 --> 3828.10] tune in this week. -[3828.58 --> 3829.20] But when speaking -[3829.20 --> 3830.18] of disputable matters, -[3831.04 --> 3832.28] how about infant baptism -[3832.28 --> 3833.64] versus believer's baptism? -[3835.86 --> 3837.16] Bible-following Christians -[3837.16 --> 3837.58] and leaders -[3837.58 --> 3838.64] dispute this all the time. -[3839.58 --> 3839.86] In fact, -[3839.90 --> 3840.42] this is probably -[3840.42 --> 3840.86] the topic -[3840.86 --> 3842.02] that I speak about most -[3842.02 --> 3843.70] to the 16- to 30-year-old -[3843.70 --> 3844.16] demographic -[3844.16 --> 3844.84] of this church. -[3845.86 --> 3847.34] In terms of this question, -[3847.98 --> 3848.74] my question is, -[3849.36 --> 3850.30] is this disputable -[3850.30 --> 3851.60] in our world? -[3852.38 --> 3853.24] And if it is, -[3853.28 --> 3854.02] how about this question? -[3854.02 --> 3854.56] And this spins it -[3854.56 --> 3854.90] on its head -[3854.90 --> 3855.30] a little bit. -[3855.76 --> 3856.78] If infant baptism -[3856.78 --> 3858.06] versus believer's baptism -[3858.06 --> 3858.98] is disputable, -[3860.12 --> 3861.40] is it okay -[3861.40 --> 3863.90] to force a believer's baptism -[3863.90 --> 3865.44] on someone -[3865.44 --> 3866.12] who is baptized -[3866.12 --> 3867.02] as an infant -[3867.02 --> 3869.06] in order to get -[3869.06 --> 3869.74] re-baptized -[3869.74 --> 3870.28] as an adult? -[3873.00 --> 3873.66] Especially if they -[3873.66 --> 3874.16] don't want to. -[3875.90 --> 3876.54] Seems to go -[3876.54 --> 3877.28] against this text. -[3879.14 --> 3879.90] Here's another one. -[3880.12 --> 3880.50] It's going to get -[3880.50 --> 3881.24] even quieter in here. -[3881.24 --> 3883.08] What about women -[3883.08 --> 3883.60] in office? -[3885.18 --> 3886.22] Our denomination, -[3886.72 --> 3888.70] I would say rightly, -[3889.56 --> 3890.54] even acknowledges -[3890.54 --> 3891.20] how disputable -[3891.20 --> 3892.06] this topic is -[3892.06 --> 3894.22] in their official stance -[3894.22 --> 3894.70] on the matter. -[3894.84 --> 3895.48] Scripture isn't -[3895.48 --> 3896.36] as clear -[3896.36 --> 3897.64] as we want it to be. -[3898.98 --> 3899.58] In fact, -[3899.62 --> 3900.50] one of my projects -[3900.50 --> 3901.48] in seminary recently -[3901.48 --> 3902.60] was to look at this topic -[3902.60 --> 3903.42] of women in office -[3903.42 --> 3904.80] and look at it -[3904.80 --> 3905.84] from both perspectives -[3905.84 --> 3906.92] as unbiasedly -[3906.92 --> 3907.54] as possible. -[3907.54 --> 3908.14] And so I've got -[3908.14 --> 3908.72] a document -[3908.72 --> 3909.78] that goes over -[3909.78 --> 3911.06] the 14 passages -[3911.06 --> 3911.62] in Scripture -[3911.62 --> 3912.92] that are most often used -[3912.92 --> 3914.28] to talk about -[3914.28 --> 3914.96] women in office -[3914.96 --> 3916.46] and there is a comment -[3916.46 --> 3917.12] from the people -[3917.12 --> 3917.84] who are for it -[3917.84 --> 3918.72] and against it -[3918.72 --> 3919.96] on every single one -[3919.96 --> 3920.54] of those Scriptures. -[3925.14 --> 3925.76] Point is, -[3925.80 --> 3926.42] it's disputable. -[3928.66 --> 3929.38] Timothy Keller -[3929.38 --> 3930.16] sums it up nicely -[3930.16 --> 3930.82] when he says this, -[3930.86 --> 3931.86] if there is broad -[3931.86 --> 3932.44] disagreement -[3932.44 --> 3934.18] among mature, -[3935.26 --> 3936.50] Bible-honoring Christians -[3936.50 --> 3937.26] in some issue, -[3938.00 --> 3938.90] like baptism -[3938.90 --> 3940.10] or women in office, -[3940.92 --> 3942.52] we must be willing -[3942.52 --> 3943.34] to concede -[3943.34 --> 3944.82] that it is disputable. -[3945.72 --> 3946.16] However, -[3946.20 --> 3947.24] if anyone wants -[3947.24 --> 3948.66] to put everything -[3948.66 --> 3949.98] in the disputable area, -[3950.14 --> 3950.90] they need to be warned -[3950.90 --> 3951.44] of the dangers -[3951.44 --> 3952.18] of this tendency. -[3952.68 --> 3953.02] Likewise, -[3953.62 --> 3954.24] anyone who wants -[3954.24 --> 3955.26] to put little or nothing -[3955.26 --> 3956.56] in this disputable area -[3956.56 --> 3957.82] must also be warned -[3957.82 --> 3958.90] of that perspective -[3958.90 --> 3959.32] as well. -[3962.02 --> 3962.54] So, -[3962.82 --> 3963.50] the forest -[3963.50 --> 3964.96] of what is disputable -[3964.96 --> 3965.92] is not maybe -[3965.92 --> 3966.32] as large -[3966.32 --> 3966.94] as we may think -[3966.94 --> 3967.40] it is. -[3967.62 --> 3968.48] Commands in the Bible -[3968.48 --> 3969.40] are still commands, -[3969.56 --> 3971.02] but it does contain -[3971.02 --> 3972.18] certain issues -[3972.18 --> 3972.66] that are still -[3972.66 --> 3973.18] very, -[3973.28 --> 3973.92] very central -[3973.92 --> 3975.04] to the church -[3975.04 --> 3975.76] found in Langley, -[3975.84 --> 3976.14] B.C. -[3976.14 --> 3976.84] in 2024. -[3978.10 --> 3979.06] But how are we -[3979.06 --> 3980.00] supposed to engage -[3980.00 --> 3980.92] these matters then? -[3981.30 --> 3982.00] How are we supposed -[3982.00 --> 3983.22] to engage these matters -[3983.22 --> 3984.24] with our fellow believers? -[3985.56 --> 3986.00] And again, -[3986.44 --> 3987.40] our text points us -[3987.40 --> 3988.38] in a really good direction. -[3989.40 --> 3990.50] Verse 17 and 18 -[3990.50 --> 3991.00] of our text -[3991.00 --> 3991.42] says this, -[3991.42 --> 3992.62] For the kingdom -[3992.62 --> 3993.40] of God -[3993.40 --> 3994.76] is not a matter -[3994.76 --> 3995.80] of eating and drinking, -[3996.52 --> 3997.40] but of righteousness, -[3997.92 --> 3998.24] peace, -[3998.58 --> 3999.28] and joy -[3999.28 --> 4000.34] in the Holy Spirit. -[4000.56 --> 4001.44] Because anyone -[4001.44 --> 4002.34] who serves Christ -[4002.34 --> 4002.94] in this way -[4002.94 --> 4004.78] is pleasing to God -[4004.78 --> 4005.70] and receives -[4005.70 --> 4006.76] human approval. -[4008.64 --> 4009.56] This is interesting. -[4009.66 --> 4010.82] This is the only spot, -[4011.30 --> 4011.56] again, -[4011.62 --> 4013.08] we're on sermon 34 now -[4013.08 --> 4013.82] throughout Romans. -[4014.36 --> 4014.80] We're going to have -[4014.80 --> 4015.62] 39 in total. -[4015.74 --> 4016.66] This is the only spot -[4016.66 --> 4017.68] in the entire letter -[4017.68 --> 4019.40] where Paul mentions -[4019.40 --> 4020.28] the kingdom of God. -[4021.22 --> 4021.92] This one spot. -[4023.50 --> 4024.60] And central to the kingdom -[4024.60 --> 4025.10] of God -[4025.10 --> 4026.30] is the body of Christ -[4026.30 --> 4027.28] and, -[4027.38 --> 4028.12] to Paul's writing, -[4028.84 --> 4029.44] the attributes -[4029.44 --> 4030.18] of righteousness, -[4030.82 --> 4031.14] peace, -[4031.40 --> 4032.02] and joy. -[4033.00 --> 4034.22] And so if you find yourself -[4034.22 --> 4034.84] in a community -[4034.84 --> 4035.40] of believers -[4035.40 --> 4036.24] where these types -[4036.24 --> 4036.92] of disputes -[4036.92 --> 4037.58] are happening, -[4038.18 --> 4039.28] the question you have -[4039.28 --> 4039.98] to ask yourself -[4039.98 --> 4040.52] is this, -[4040.88 --> 4042.06] are you helping move -[4042.06 --> 4043.12] this body of believers -[4043.12 --> 4044.14] towards righteousness, -[4044.74 --> 4045.04] peace, -[4045.30 --> 4045.92] and joy? -[4045.92 --> 4048.20] or not? -[4050.38 --> 4051.20] Paul's suggestion -[4051.20 --> 4052.32] is that for some things, -[4052.56 --> 4054.20] these disputable things, -[4054.28 --> 4055.20] one of the best ways -[4055.20 --> 4055.92] you can help move -[4055.92 --> 4056.94] towards righteousness, -[4057.48 --> 4057.78] peace, -[4057.92 --> 4058.58] and joy -[4058.58 --> 4060.34] is to simply embrace -[4060.34 --> 4061.00] the fact -[4061.00 --> 4061.68] that you have -[4061.68 --> 4062.34] different views -[4062.34 --> 4064.42] and try not to force -[4064.42 --> 4065.22] your beliefs -[4065.22 --> 4066.12] on your brother -[4066.12 --> 4066.86] or sister -[4066.86 --> 4067.36] who believes -[4067.36 --> 4068.02] something different. -[4068.60 --> 4069.78] Even if you -[4069.78 --> 4070.94] are persuaded -[4070.94 --> 4072.02] in the Lord -[4072.02 --> 4073.12] that you are right. -[4074.48 --> 4075.52] That's Paul's words. -[4075.92 --> 4078.38] The most pointed part -[4078.38 --> 4078.88] of our text -[4078.88 --> 4079.48] in this regard -[4079.48 --> 4080.78] is the end of verse 15. -[4081.92 --> 4083.18] Do not buy your eating, -[4083.70 --> 4085.10] and I'm going to step out -[4085.10 --> 4086.02] of the word of God -[4086.02 --> 4086.52] here for a second -[4086.52 --> 4087.48] and add my own little bits -[4087.48 --> 4087.88] and that's why -[4087.88 --> 4088.52] I'm stepping back. -[4089.20 --> 4090.26] So do not buy your eating, -[4090.54 --> 4091.02] and I'll add -[4091.02 --> 4091.74] by your discussing -[4091.74 --> 4092.96] or your posting -[4092.96 --> 4094.20] or your texting, -[4095.20 --> 4096.72] destroy someone -[4096.72 --> 4098.52] for whom Christ died. -[4098.52 --> 4102.40] Christ sacrificed -[4102.40 --> 4103.98] his life -[4103.98 --> 4105.64] for your brothers -[4105.64 --> 4106.72] and sisters in Christ. -[4107.22 --> 4108.26] His life. -[4109.22 --> 4109.98] Christ sacrificed -[4109.98 --> 4110.86] everything -[4110.86 --> 4111.98] for them. -[4113.58 --> 4115.18] So to model Christ -[4115.18 --> 4116.42] means to sacrifice -[4116.42 --> 4118.56] our God-given privileges -[4118.56 --> 4120.18] for your brothers -[4120.18 --> 4121.22] and sisters in Christ, -[4121.38 --> 4121.88] for the good -[4121.88 --> 4122.46] of righteousness, -[4123.08 --> 4123.90] of peace, -[4124.06 --> 4124.98] and of joy. -[4124.98 --> 4127.84] So when we look down -[4127.84 --> 4129.12] on weaker faith believers, -[4129.28 --> 4129.96] we're harming -[4129.96 --> 4131.14] the same people -[4131.14 --> 4132.34] for whom Christ died. -[4133.00 --> 4133.90] When we flaunt -[4133.90 --> 4135.08] what we may know -[4135.08 --> 4135.62] to be true -[4135.62 --> 4136.20] in front of those -[4136.20 --> 4137.04] who struggle to believe, -[4137.26 --> 4138.14] we harm -[4138.14 --> 4140.32] whom Christ died for. -[4141.14 --> 4142.42] When we eat meat -[4142.42 --> 4143.72] in front of believers -[4143.72 --> 4144.18] who believe -[4144.18 --> 4144.66] it is wrong -[4144.66 --> 4145.22] to eat meat -[4145.22 --> 4146.28] because of their convictions, -[4146.72 --> 4148.52] we harm the same people -[4148.52 --> 4150.78] whom Christ died for. -[4150.78 --> 4155.04] we must treat the body -[4155.04 --> 4156.56] with care and sensitivity -[4156.56 --> 4158.24] because Christ paid -[4158.24 --> 4159.08] with his life -[4159.08 --> 4160.28] for every Christian, -[4160.72 --> 4161.86] for every believer. -[4162.38 --> 4164.30] Christ lived a sinless life -[4164.30 --> 4165.86] that none of us can live -[4165.86 --> 4167.28] only to die a death -[4167.28 --> 4168.38] on a cross -[4168.38 --> 4169.50] that we all deserve, -[4169.66 --> 4170.40] that you deserve, -[4170.50 --> 4171.16] that I deserve, -[4171.22 --> 4172.26] and he did it in our place, -[4172.40 --> 4173.42] and he bore the weight -[4173.42 --> 4174.84] of sin and misery -[4174.84 --> 4175.68] on his shoulders, -[4175.78 --> 4176.52] and he took it with him -[4176.52 --> 4177.08] to the tomb -[4177.08 --> 4179.60] where he defeated sin -[4179.60 --> 4181.08] and death once and for all -[4181.08 --> 4181.80] when he rose again -[4181.80 --> 4182.64] three days later. -[4184.18 --> 4185.06] And he did that -[4185.06 --> 4186.60] for all who believe. -[4187.98 --> 4189.24] For all who believe. -[4189.30 --> 4191.08] Whether they eat meat or not. -[4191.46 --> 4192.50] Whether they wear jewelry -[4192.50 --> 4193.82] or decide not to. -[4193.90 --> 4194.98] Whether they have ink -[4194.98 --> 4196.20] tattooed on their arms -[4196.20 --> 4197.22] or don't. -[4197.52 --> 4198.92] Whether they're egalitarian -[4198.92 --> 4200.50] or complementarian. -[4201.96 --> 4204.90] Christ died for all. -[4206.68 --> 4208.26] Christ gave up his life -[4208.26 --> 4209.28] for all of us. -[4209.60 --> 4213.70] And we model Christ -[4213.70 --> 4216.42] by giving up our privileges -[4216.42 --> 4218.42] from Christ for others -[4218.42 --> 4219.94] if they need us to. -[4220.28 --> 4221.60] Peace and joy -[4221.60 --> 4222.66] and righteousness -[4222.66 --> 4224.20] and spiritual growth -[4224.20 --> 4225.26] and encouragement -[4225.26 --> 4226.84] matter so much more -[4226.84 --> 4228.02] than the disputable matters. -[4230.14 --> 4231.20] I'll conclude -[4231.20 --> 4232.36] with just some final thoughts here. -[4233.28 --> 4236.06] First, verse 22 of our text -[4236.06 --> 4237.20] offers one more, -[4237.42 --> 4239.56] I think, very good application. -[4239.60 --> 4240.26] for us today. -[4241.26 --> 4241.72] It says, -[4241.86 --> 4242.74] whatever you believe -[4242.74 --> 4243.58] about these things, -[4243.74 --> 4244.68] these disputable matters, -[4244.80 --> 4245.42] whatever you believe -[4245.42 --> 4246.24] about these things, -[4246.48 --> 4248.18] keep them between yourself -[4248.18 --> 4248.70] and the Lord. -[4249.70 --> 4250.90] Keep them between yourself -[4250.90 --> 4251.34] and God. -[4252.48 --> 4253.18] Paul is saying -[4253.18 --> 4253.96] there's a difference -[4253.96 --> 4255.50] between belief and action. -[4256.56 --> 4257.12] You're allowed -[4257.12 --> 4257.94] to have your convictions. -[4258.78 --> 4259.24] You're allowed -[4259.24 --> 4259.92] to even know -[4259.92 --> 4260.96] to the core of your body -[4260.96 --> 4261.64] that your convictions -[4261.64 --> 4262.22] are true -[4262.22 --> 4263.28] and that the privileges -[4263.28 --> 4264.30] of those convictions -[4264.30 --> 4264.92] in Christ -[4264.92 --> 4265.68] are good. -[4266.96 --> 4269.32] But not every private conviction -[4269.32 --> 4270.78] needs to be public discourse. -[4273.24 --> 4274.12] In a world -[4274.12 --> 4275.14] of online forums, -[4275.46 --> 4276.42] not every thought -[4276.42 --> 4277.28] needs to be posted -[4277.28 --> 4280.24] and not every post -[4280.24 --> 4280.92] needs a comment. -[4282.18 --> 4283.12] Keep those things -[4283.12 --> 4283.96] between you and God. -[4285.30 --> 4286.74] Help establish peace -[4286.74 --> 4287.52] and joy -[4287.52 --> 4288.46] amongst your brothers -[4288.46 --> 4289.50] and sisters in Christ. -[4289.50 --> 4291.56] And second, -[4291.66 --> 4292.16] if you know -[4292.16 --> 4292.98] that an issue -[4292.98 --> 4293.64] is disputable, -[4293.76 --> 4294.52] if we know, -[4294.60 --> 4295.16] if we're aware -[4295.16 --> 4296.28] of a disputable issue, -[4297.16 --> 4298.16] and then we are called -[4298.16 --> 4299.24] to proper discussion -[4299.24 --> 4299.84] and discernment. -[4299.92 --> 4300.42] We are called -[4300.42 --> 4302.22] to follow Paul's advice here. -[4302.30 --> 4303.46] Those who may be weaker -[4303.46 --> 4304.14] in their faith, -[4304.34 --> 4305.08] they must be willing -[4305.08 --> 4306.56] to really truly review -[4306.56 --> 4307.88] the biblical data -[4307.88 --> 4309.40] and be open, -[4309.46 --> 4309.58] sorry, -[4309.64 --> 4310.16] to rethinking -[4310.16 --> 4310.86] their position -[4310.86 --> 4312.96] and refuse to criticize -[4312.96 --> 4313.84] those who disagree. -[4315.20 --> 4315.96] But likewise, -[4316.46 --> 4317.38] those who may be stronger -[4317.38 --> 4317.88] in their faith -[4317.88 --> 4318.86] must also be willing -[4318.86 --> 4320.16] to review the biblical data, -[4320.48 --> 4321.72] to rethink their position, -[4322.04 --> 4322.70] and be willing -[4322.70 --> 4323.70] to curb their freedoms -[4323.70 --> 4324.94] and privileges in Christ -[4324.94 --> 4326.80] to avoid discouraging -[4326.80 --> 4328.18] and harming fellow believers. -[4329.14 --> 4330.04] It's okay to talk. -[4330.64 --> 4331.58] It's good to talk. -[4331.66 --> 4332.50] It's good to discuss -[4332.50 --> 4333.14] these topics. -[4333.48 --> 4335.42] But we must do so -[4335.42 --> 4337.12] with peace and joy -[4337.12 --> 4337.92] in our mouths. -[4338.48 --> 4339.78] Not seeking to win, -[4341.08 --> 4342.08] but seeking to obey, -[4342.38 --> 4343.26] seeking to encourage, -[4343.42 --> 4344.14] seeking to edify -[4344.14 --> 4344.76] one another. -[4347.88 --> 4348.68] And if those discussions -[4348.68 --> 4349.56] aren't done with the spirit -[4349.56 --> 4350.12] of peace and joy, -[4350.18 --> 4350.56] then once again, -[4350.60 --> 4351.26] just keep them between -[4351.26 --> 4351.76] you and God -[4351.76 --> 4354.24] for the sake of the body, -[4355.14 --> 4357.28] for the sake of Christ's love -[4357.28 --> 4358.84] and sacrifice for us all. -[4359.84 --> 4360.58] That way, -[4360.90 --> 4361.92] the whole body -[4361.92 --> 4363.62] can grow in righteousness, -[4363.96 --> 4364.96] we can grow in peace, -[4365.02 --> 4365.92] we can grow in joy, -[4365.96 --> 4366.54] and we can let -[4366.54 --> 4367.80] the work of the Spirit, -[4367.92 --> 4369.70] who is sanctifying us all -[4369.70 --> 4370.28] right now, -[4371.32 --> 4372.38] continue His work -[4372.38 --> 4372.94] of renewal -[4372.94 --> 4374.40] in all of our lives. -[4374.48 --> 4374.66] Amen? -[4374.66 --> 4374.78] Amen? -[4374.78 --> 4376.38] Let me pray. -[4380.38 --> 4381.36] Father in heaven, -[4381.98 --> 4382.60] we thank You -[4382.60 --> 4383.18] for Your Word. -[4383.66 --> 4384.14] We thank You -[4384.14 --> 4384.76] for this letter -[4384.76 --> 4386.30] that Paul has penned -[4386.30 --> 4387.14] to the Roman church -[4387.14 --> 4390.16] and that Your words -[4390.16 --> 4391.10] are on its page. -[4392.36 --> 4392.62] And God, -[4392.66 --> 4393.18] we pray -[4393.18 --> 4394.68] in the context -[4394.68 --> 4395.70] that we find ourselves, -[4395.82 --> 4396.52] which is a very -[4396.52 --> 4397.50] polarizing culture, -[4398.44 --> 4399.44] a culture that loves -[4399.44 --> 4399.98] disputes, -[4401.02 --> 4401.96] a culture that loves -[4401.96 --> 4402.62] to be upset -[4402.62 --> 4403.26] with one another. -[4404.52 --> 4404.76] God, -[4404.84 --> 4405.72] we pray that You -[4405.72 --> 4406.78] will give us Your heart -[4406.78 --> 4407.64] in these matters. -[4408.46 --> 4408.64] Lord, -[4408.70 --> 4409.30] in the areas -[4409.30 --> 4410.48] of disputable matters, -[4411.12 --> 4411.98] where things are a little -[4411.98 --> 4412.62] maybe murkier -[4412.62 --> 4413.52] than we want them to be, -[4415.18 --> 4415.40] God, -[4415.46 --> 4416.50] will You give us humility, -[4417.22 --> 4418.02] give us peace -[4418.02 --> 4420.10] to not step -[4420.10 --> 4421.42] too boldly -[4421.42 --> 4423.16] or passionately -[4423.16 --> 4423.88] in front of those -[4423.88 --> 4425.02] who these topics -[4425.02 --> 4425.86] are a little bit more -[4425.86 --> 4427.54] challenging to understand. -[4429.22 --> 4429.60] God, -[4429.64 --> 4430.34] we pray for wisdom -[4430.34 --> 4431.08] and discernment -[4431.08 --> 4432.08] in these conversations. -[4432.08 --> 4432.98] We pray for wisdom -[4432.98 --> 4433.50] and discernment -[4433.50 --> 4434.28] in the relationships -[4434.28 --> 4435.54] of our brothers -[4435.54 --> 4436.32] and sisters in Christ -[4436.32 --> 4437.12] where we may disagree -[4437.12 --> 4438.20] on certain things. -[4438.30 --> 4438.44] God, -[4438.48 --> 4439.28] may Your peace reign. -[4440.38 --> 4441.20] May we encourage -[4441.20 --> 4441.58] one another. -[4441.70 --> 4442.52] May we edify -[4442.52 --> 4443.18] one another. -[4443.92 --> 4444.86] And may Your Holy Spirit -[4444.86 --> 4445.68] continue to work -[4445.68 --> 4446.40] in our hearts -[4446.40 --> 4447.30] to draw us closer -[4447.30 --> 4448.40] and closer to You. -[4451.06 --> 4451.74] And God, -[4451.86 --> 4452.58] may love -[4452.58 --> 4454.54] for one another -[4454.54 --> 4455.98] trump any dispute -[4455.98 --> 4456.70] that we may have. -[4458.04 --> 4458.80] We pray this -[4458.80 --> 4459.34] in Your Son's -[4459.34 --> 4460.26] precious and holy name. -[4460.68 --> 4460.92] Amen. -[4460.92 --> 4461.00] Amen. -[4462.08 --> 4462.64] Thank you. -[4462.78 --> 4462.98] Thank you. -[4463.06 --> 4465.42] Bye. -[4465.42 --> 4466.22] Bye. -[4466.22 --> 4466.56] Bye. -[4466.56 --> 4466.58] Bye. -[4467.82 --> 4468.54] Bye. -[4470.04 --> 4470.32] Bye. -[4470.80 --> 4471.16] バイバイ. -[4474.02 --> 4474.24] Bye. -[4480.18 --> 4480.76] Bye. -[4480.82 --> 4481.12] Bye. -[4485.74 --> 4485.84] Bye. -[4485.84 --> 4502.40] We're pilgrims on the journey of a narrow road -[4502.40 --> 4507.92] And those who've gone before us slide away -[4507.92 --> 4516.56] Cheering on the faithful, encouraging the weary -[4516.56 --> 4524.82] Their lives a stirring testament to God's ascending grace -[4524.82 --> 4530.68] Surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses -[4530.68 --> 4538.32] Let us run the race not only for the prize -[4538.32 --> 4542.86] Let us those who've gone before us -[4542.86 --> 4546.28] Let us leave to those behind us -[4546.28 --> 4554.40] The heritage of faithfulness has gone through God in us -[4554.40 --> 4560.30] Oh, may all who've come behind us find us faithful -[4560.30 --> 4567.40] May the fire of our devotion light their way -[4567.40 --> 4575.04] May the footprints that we leave lead them to redeem -[4575.04 --> 4580.40] And the lives we live inspire them to obey -[4580.40 --> 4588.30] Oh, may all who've come behind us find us faithful -[4588.30 --> 4603.30] After all our hopes and dreams have come and done -[4603.30 --> 4609.20] Our children sit through all we've got behind -[4609.20 --> 4614.12] May the clues that they discover -[4614.12 --> 4617.62] And the memories they uncover -[4617.62 --> 4625.20] May the light that leads them to the road we reach us one -[4625.20 --> 4633.10] Oh, may all who've come behind us find us faithful -[4633.10 --> 4639.10] May the fire of our devotion light their way -[4639.10 --> 4647.10] May the footprints that we leave lead them to redeem -[4647.10 --> 4649.10] And the light that leads them to redeem -[4649.10 --> 4657.00] And the lives we live in the fire of our devotion light their way -[4657.00 --> 4667.16] May the footprints that we leave lead them to redeem -[4667.16 --> 4685.24] devotion -[4697.16 --> 4700.08] Let's pray for you. -[4727.16 --> 4757.14] Let's pray for you. -[4757.16 --> 4787.14] Let's pray for you. -[4787.16 --> 4789.16] Let's pray for you. -[4789.16 --> 4791.16] Let's pray for you. -[4791.16 --> 4793.16] Let's pray for you. -[4793.16 --> 4795.16] Let's pray for you. -[4795.16 --> 4799.16] Let's pray for you. -[4799.16 --> 4801.16] Let's pray for you. -[4801.16 --> 4803.16] Let's pray for you. -[4803.16 --> 4805.16] Let's pray for you. -[4805.16 --> 4807.16] Let's pray for you. -[4807.16 --> 4809.16] Let's pray for you. -[4809.16 --> 4811.16] Let's pray for you. -[4811.16 --> 4813.16] Let's pray for you. -[4813.16 --> 4815.16] Let's pray for you. -[4815.16 --> 4817.16] Let's pray for you. -[4817.16 --> 4819.16] Let's pray for you. -[4819.16 --> 4821.16] Let's pray for you. -[4821.16 --> 4823.16] Let's pray for you. -[4823.16 --> 4825.16] Let's pray for you. -[4825.16 --> 4827.16] Let's pray for you. -[4827.16 --> 4829.16] Let's pray for you. -[4829.16 --> 4831.16] Let's pray for you. -[4831.16 --> 4833.16] Let's pray for you. -[4833.16 --> 4835.16] Let's pray for you. -[4835.16 --> 4837.16] Let's pray for you. -[4837.16 --> 4839.16] Let's pray for you. -[4839.20 --> 4840.16] Let's pray for you. -[4840.16 --> 4844.16] Let's pray for you. -[4844.16 --> 4845.16] Let's pray for you. -[4845.16 --> 4846.16] Let's pray for you. -[4846.16 --> 4859.84] son, we know the outcome is secure, and Christ's land, the Christ for which he died, an inheritance -[4859.84 --> 4873.84] is -[4889.84 --> 4893.84] oh -[4893.84 --> 4905.84] oh -[4907.28 --> 4912.88] it -[4919.84 --> 4931.84] risen and as the stone is rolled away and christ emerges from his prey -[4931.84 --> 4939.84] his victory march continues till the day every eye and heart shall see -[4939.84 --> 4948.16] so -[4956.32 --> 4956.88] own -[4969.84 --> 4971.84] Oh -[4999.84 --> 5001.84] Oh -[5029.84 --> 5031.84] Oh -[5059.84 --> 5061.84] Oh -[5089.84 --> 5091.84] Oh -[5091.84 --> 5093.84] Oh -[5093.84 --> 5095.84] Oh -[5097.84 --> 5099.84] Oh -[5099.84 --> 5101.84] Oh -[5103.84 --> 5105.84] Oh -[5107.84 --> 5109.84] Oh -[5111.84 --> 5113.84] Oh -[5115.84 --> 5117.84] Oh -[5119.84 --> 5149.82] Oh, my God. -[5149.84 --> 5179.82] Oh, my God. -[5179.84 --> 5181.84] Oh, my God. -[5209.84 --> 5211.84] Oh, my God. -[5239.84 --> 5241.84] Oh, my God. -[5269.84 --> 5271.84] Oh, my God. -[5299.84 --> 5301.84] Oh, my God. -[5301.84 --> 5305.84] Oh, my God. -[5305.84 --> 5307.84] Oh, my God. -[5307.84 --> 5309.84] Oh, my God. -[5309.84 --> 5311.84] Oh, my God. -[5311.84 --> 5313.84] Oh, my God. -[5313.84 --> 5315.84] Oh, my God. -[5315.84 --> 5317.84] Oh, my God. -[5317.84 --> 5331.84] Oh, my God. -[5331.84 --> 5361.82] Thank you. -[5361.84 --> 5391.82] Thank you. -[5391.84 --> 5421.82] Thank you. -[5421.84 --> 5451.82] Thank you. -[5451.84 --> 5481.82] Thank you. -[5481.84 --> 5511.82] Thank you. -[5511.84 --> 5541.82] Thank you. -[5541.84 --> 5571.82] Thank you. -[5571.84 --> 5601.82] Thank you. -[5601.84 --> 5631.82] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, April 6, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, April 6, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index fed75f1c2cb54f1bfb6fae2f27d72b88e24b076a..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, April 6, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,139 +0,0 @@ -• Adult and Teen Challenge will share their story during the service -• Next Sunday's Palm Sunday service will include a lunch gathering to hear from Mexico mission team members -• A town hall meeting on Tuesday at 7pm will discuss plans for an ordained pastor completing his studies -• Youth coffee is available after today's service at the Rollamans House -• April is Treat Tag month, with more information available online -• Song lyrics referencing God's protection and devotion -• Bible passage from Mark 8:31-38 about Jesus' suffering and crucifixion -• Parable of denying oneself to follow Jesus -• Reflection on Christ's sacrifice and atonement for sin -• Personal confession of past failures, including denial of Jesus and lack of vigilance during his trial -• Acknowledging sin and guilt -• Asking for forgiveness and renewal -• Praising God's love and mercy -• Singing hymns (Rock of Ages, Let the Lord's Insurance) -• Reflections on salvation through Christ Jesus -• Recognizing human inability to atone for sins -• Expressions of devotion to Jesus as holy, pure, and lovely -• Being washed with Christ's spirit and being members of Christ's blood -• Sanctification and living holy lives -• The Holy Spirit guiding and teaching -• Surrendering to God's will and giving life to the Father's hand -• Adult and Teen Challenge ministry and its presence in the church community -• Teen Challenge is a year-long program that focuses on transformation through discipleship -• The program is Bible-based and worldwide with the same curriculum -• Aftercare program available for graduates to transition into life outside of the center -• Work experience programs, social enterprise, and community care offices are also offered -• Freedom from addiction is possible and has been seen in program participants -• The speaker reflects on their difficult past and the various traumas they experienced. -• They describe how God has intervened in their life and healed their heart, redeeming what was lost. -• The speaker affirms that God's truth has set them free from slavery to sin and restored their identity. -• They mention specific Bible verses (Colossians 1:13, Psalm 25:5, 1 Peter 1:14-15) to support their message. -• The speaker shares how prayer is crucial for their ministry and encourages listeners to pray for their organization's challenges with intake and barriers to freedom. -• They invite listeners to attend a dessert night event to hear more testimonies and learn about the ministry. -• Discussion of help for those struggling -• Distribution of information and cards -• Thanks and prayer from the audience -• A conversation about a person named Hank and his humorous stories at the dog park -• Encouraging children by saying nice things about them -• Identifying people's strengths and highlighting their positive qualities -• Using stories from Teen Challenge to illustrate God's presence in lives -• Worshiping Jesus and lifting Him up -• Children's worship time discussion and prayer -• Congregational prayer led by an elder -• Worship and giving glory to God -• Acknowledging sin and brokenness as individuals -• Prayer for specific individuals dealing with illnesses, surgery, cancer, and mental health issues -• Thanking God for opportunities to serve and reach out to others -• Seeking blessings on church members and leaders -• Reflecting on Psalm 105 and seeking God's strength and guidance -• Praying for the Holy Spirit's work in daily lives and workplaces -• Reading and understanding the Bible -• Explaining God's will for living a life in Christ -• The importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit -• Understanding what it means to live as one in Christ Jesus -• Breaking down and interpreting 1 Thessalonians 5:16-22 -• The importance of understanding the preposition "in" in relation to being in Christ -• The distinction between thinking one must follow Jesus' example to get into God's will versus being part of Him -• Belonging and identity in Christ, rather than just doing something to achieve a relationship with God -• Bible passages mentioned: Romans 6, 1 Corinthians 1, Galatians 3, Ephesians 2, and Galatians 2 -• The importance of living by faith in Christ Jesus for salvation and spiritual life -• The role of faith in the life of believers, including the Son of God loving them and giving Himself up for them -• The relationship between faith and works, with faith preceding works as Christ's presence is necessary for the kinds of works He calls us to -• The impossibility of living a life of holiness apart from Christ and the Holy Spirit -• The foundational philosophy of ministry at Adult and Teen Challenge: relying on God through faith in Christ Jesus -• The difference between being converted to Christ and living without Him -• The burden of an impossible law on those who do not know or trust in Christ -• The expectation of people to live up to a certain standard before becoming Christian -• The distinction between requiring the fruit of faith versus looking for the seed of faith -• The importance of recognizing that one is already in Christ through faith and belief in Him -• The tendency to rely on personal determination and effort instead of relying on God's work -• The teaching of the Bible that all aspects of faith require being in Christ, believing in Him, and receiving His work. -• Being in Christ moves one deeper -• Life in Christ Jesus is life drenched deep in the Holy Spirit -• The characteristics of a Spirit-drenched life: being on fire for the Lord, being filled with the Spirit, and living out gratitude -• There are things to do and things not to do in this life lived in Christ -• Do's are for one's good and God's glory -• Don'ts are for one's good and God's glory -• Enjoying God, worshiping Him, and living in the comfort of the gospel are part of a Spirit-drenched life -• The Thessalonian church has faced incredible hardship, persecution, and death in its short existence. -• Living as Christians in a non-Christian society can be difficult and lead to social ostracism. -• God's people need extra reminders and encouragement when things are hard. -• Job's story is an example of how one can find reason to rejoice despite adverse circumstances. -• Christians singing hymns, specifically "It Is Well with My Soul" -• Satan and trials as opposed to Christ's help -• Rejoicing in hardship and worshiping in difficult circumstances -• The greater circumstance of God's presence and love -• Job's hope and faith in his redeemer -• Two reasons for rejoicing: the resurrection of Jesus and his coming again -• The Bible teaches to rejoice always, but this doesn't mean feeling joyful or happy all the time. -• Rejoicing always means submitting one's feelings to the truth of who Christ is and redefining realities in light of the gospel. -• It involves trusting Christ and not one's own feelings. -• Sometimes we sing "it is well with my soul" aspirationally, longing to believe it's true. -• In times of darkness, we may need others to pray for us, but ultimately, our reliance should be on Christ himself. -• The speaker discusses the importance of prayer and its various forms, including inviting God into daily life, pleading with Him, and sitting still to listen for His voice. -• The speaker references Jesus' invitation to come to Him for rest and relief from burdens. -• Praying can also involve using scripture as words spoken from one's own heart. -• Gratitude is emphasized as a key aspect of prayer, even in difficult circumstances. -• The speaker notes that while we may not be able to thank God for sinful or hurtful situations, we can still thank Him for His promise to sustain us through them. -• The passage in Romans 8:28 is referenced as a reminder that God works for the good of those who love and follow Him. -• God is working all things for good -• The resurrection and return of Jesus Christ are our hope -• Giving thanks in every circumstance can be genuine if one believes in God's goodness -• Negatives imperatives (don'ts) follow positives (dos) -• Do not quench the Spirit, meaning do not resist its work -• Conviction of sin is a common way the Holy Spirit works among us -• Repentance and confession are necessary steps after conviction of sin -• The Holy Spirit is working in the area of confession and repentance among people -• The Spirit is leading in the speaker's life and ministry -• Conviction by the Holy Spirit for forgiveness and living for Christ -• Purpose given by the Holy Spirit to serve and edify the church -• Quenching the Spirit through resisting or denying gifts -• Misconceptions about one's gifts and identity -• Dangers of false prophets and wolves in sheep's clothing -• Importance of not treating prophecies with contempt -• The risk of falling into cynicism when evaluating spiritual leaders -• God's voice speaking through prophets, including both extraordinary and ordinary revelations -• Testing spirits and messages, including a healthy dose of skepticism -• Evaluating the message of Jesus Christ as unchanging and eternal -• Recognizing false prophets who contradict or speak wrongly about God's word -• The importance of knowing and studying God's word to test new prophecies -• Rejecting every kind of evil, particularly sin. -• The source of evil is within oneself -• Jesus Christ lived the life one should have lived and died for their sins -• Through faith in Jesus, one can receive his perfection and be set free from sin and death -• The Holy Spirit lives within those who follow Christ, bringing transformation and new life -• Prayer is offered to God for His continued work in the midst of those present -• Prayer for transformation and renewal -• Request to draw the light of the gospel into dark places -• Petition for stories to be brought to completion -• Invocation for working out salvation with fear and trembling -• Prayers for heart change, renewal, and being filled with God's love -• Desire to rise up like an eagle and soar in God's power and love -• Requests for spiritual guidance, protection, and support on life's journey -• Blessing and commissioning from God for the journey of faith lived in Christ Jesus -• Prayers for blessings and peace -• Invocation of God's presence and favor -• Praise and worship songs, including "Praise the Lord" and "He has washed them" -• References to God's redemption and forgiveness -• Expressions of gratitude with repeated phrases of "Thank you" \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, April 6, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, April 6, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2f5c834bb807c34aa5f7b48b2ca0ba54de836cf2..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, April 6, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2484 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 5.70] one of the pastors here. Today's a special service in our midst as we're joined by -[5.70 --> 11.30] Adult and Teen Challenge, and they're going to share a little bit of their life and story and -[11.30 --> 17.24] God's work with them a little bit later in our service. And so we're going to look forward to -[17.24 --> 21.60] that and anticipate that. Before we begin, we have a couple announcements to make. And so, -[21.70 --> 26.82] Paul, why don't you come up? And while Paul's coming up, I just want to inform everyone that -[26.82 --> 34.56] next Sunday, which is Palm Sunday, after our worship, we're going to have a lunch gathering -[34.56 --> 41.68] here to listen to the stories from our Mexico mission team. And so over the last spring break, -[41.78 --> 49.32] we had a team that went down to Mexico and did some work there and saw God at work in their lives -[49.32 --> 53.78] there. And so we're going to hear their stories next week following our worship together. More -[53.78 --> 59.60] details for that will be in the midweek memo and e-bulletin and on social media and the like. So -[59.60 --> 72.04] keep your eyes open for that. Paul? So, whoa, that was loud. Later on this year, this guy is going to -[72.04 --> 79.58] complete his studies, which means he's going to become an ordained pastor, fully ordained. -[79.58 --> 94.34] Tuesday night, this coming Tuesday night at seven o'clock. I have to think there for a second. Yes. Yeah. -[94.60 --> 102.08] Seven o'clock. We invite you all to come here to have a town hall. And we want to discuss how -[102.08 --> 106.22] that plan going forward is good. We want to hear from you. The council wants to hear from you -[106.22 --> 114.82] how we go forward with that process. So invite you to come here on Tuesday night, seven o'clock. Be there. -[121.82 --> 129.42] Rolling through just two more quick announcements. One, after service today, youth coffee is happening -[129.42 --> 135.86] at the Rollamans House. And so youth, if you are part of our youth program or you're wondering about -[135.86 --> 141.94] what that might be like, join and head over to the Rollamans House for coffee. Rollamans, there you go. -[142.38 --> 148.46] Kevin can also tell you where you need to be and how you can get there. And then lastly, just a quick -[148.46 --> 158.48] reminder that April is treat tag month. Thank you. Here at Langley Emanuel. And so I know some of you -[158.48 --> 164.08] have already received little treat bags and the like. And so keep that up. Keep that going. -[164.76 --> 171.26] You can again check out our YouTube channel or in the e-bulletin, midweek memo, social media for more -[171.26 --> 179.68] details on that together. I think that's it. Yeah? Okay. Why don't we stand together and we can be -[179.68 --> 183.40] ushered into God's presence in our worship this morning. -[183.40 --> 191.60] Amen. I invite you to receive God's greeting as he speaks over us today. And then following God's -[191.60 --> 196.74] greeting, invite you to turn to those around you that you might welcome them into worship as well. -[197.00 --> 206.42] Receive the greeting of God. Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, -[206.42 --> 212.20] Son, and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. -[236.42 --> 264.62] Our call to worship today comes from Psalm 89. I will sing of the Lord's great love forever. With my mouth, I will make your faithfulness known through all generations. -[264.62 --> 270.38] I will declare that your love stands firm forever, that you have established your faithfulness in heaven itself. -[271.26 --> 276.40] Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne. Love and faithfulness go before you. -[277.08 --> 281.86] Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, Lord. -[282.32 --> 285.84] They rejoice in your name all day long. They celebrate your righteousness. -[286.50 --> 291.02] For you are their glory and strength, and by your favor you exalt our horn. -[291.02 --> 295.02] Praise be to the Lord forever. Amen and Amen. -[321.02 --> 339.24] Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father. -[339.24 --> 348.08] There is no shadow of turning with me. -[348.08 --> 356.78] Thou changest not, thy compassions may fail not. -[356.78 --> 364.86] As thou hast been, thou forever wilt be. -[364.86 --> 373.86] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[373.86 --> 397.86] Lord unto me. -[397.86 --> 402.06] power of Thy Spirit. -[402.06 --> 409.68] Summer and winter and springtime and harvest. -[409.74 --> 417.46] Sun, moon, and stars to their courses above. -[418.12 --> 425.58] Joined with all nature in mechanical witness. -[425.58 --> 434.32] To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love. -[435.28 --> 443.06] Great is Thy faithfulness, great is Thy faithfulness. -[443.68 --> 450.52] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[450.52 --> 459.12] All I have needed Thy hand and provided. -[460.38 --> 468.34] Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[471.28 --> 479.12] Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth. -[479.12 --> 487.72] Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide. -[488.96 --> 496.34] Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow. -[497.80 --> 505.44] Blessings all mine with ten thousand days died. -[505.44 --> 514.04] Great is Thy faithfulness, great is Thy faithfulness. -[515.12 --> 522.04] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[523.82 --> 531.44] All I have needed Thy hand, God, Lord, I am. -[531.44 --> 539.12] Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, I am. -[539.12 --> 550.66] Thanks for active,ください. -[550.66 --> 551.80] Thank bodies, Lord, I am. -[551.80 --> 567.04] Let the King of my heart be the mountain where I run. -[567.04 --> 573.18] The mountain I drink from, holy is my song. -[573.96 --> 580.22] Let the King of my heart be the shadow where I hide. -[580.22 --> 586.20] The blessing for my life, holy is my song. -[586.58 --> 610.20] You are good, good, oh, you are good, good, oh, you are good, good. -[610.22 --> 619.08] Oh, let the King of my heart be the way inside my sails. -[619.08 --> 625.08] The anchor in the waves, holy is my song. -[625.48 --> 631.84] Let the King of my heart be the fire inside my veins. -[631.84 --> 637.94] The echo of my days, holy is my song. -[637.94 --> 649.94] You are good, good, oh, you are good, good, oh. -[649.94 --> 655.80] Oh, you are good, good, oh. -[655.80 --> 662.80] Oh, you are good, good, oh. -[662.80 --> 670.80] You are never gonna let, never gonna let me down. -[670.80 --> 679.66] You are never gonna let, never gonna let me down. -[679.66 --> 688.52] You are never gonna let, never gonna let me down. -[688.52 --> 700.52] You are never gonna let, never gonna let, never gonna let me down. -[700.52 --> 710.52] You are never gonna let, never gonna let, never gonna let me down. -[710.52 --> 714.52] You are never gonna let, never gonna let me down. -[714.52 --> 724.52] You are good, never gonna let, never gonna let, never gonna let, never gonna let me down. -[724.52 --> 726.52] Oh, you are good, oh. -[726.52 --> 731.52] Oh, you are good, good, oh. -[731.52 --> 739.52] Oh, you are good, good, oh. -[739.52 --> 765.52] You are never gonna let, never gonna let, never gonna let me down. -[765.52 --> 784.26] When the night is holding on to me -[784.26 --> 789.60] God is holding on -[789.60 --> 797.48] When the night is holding on to me -[797.48 --> 802.96] God is holding on -[802.96 --> 804.62] I'm watching this again -[804.62 --> 805.34] Amen -[805.34 --> 818.84] Reading from the book of Mark 8 -[818.84 --> 820.60] Verse 31 to 38 -[820.60 --> 824.48] Jesus then began to teach them -[824.48 --> 827.00] That the Son of Man must suffer many things -[827.00 --> 829.38] And be rejected by the elders -[829.38 --> 830.56] The chief priests -[830.56 --> 832.14] And the teachers of the law -[832.14 --> 834.16] And that he must be killed -[834.16 --> 836.24] And after three days rise again -[836.24 --> 838.80] He spoke plainly about this -[838.80 --> 840.50] And Peter took him aside -[840.50 --> 841.82] And began to rebuke him -[841.82 --> 843.70] But when Jesus turned -[843.70 --> 844.98] And looked at his disciples -[844.98 --> 846.86] He rebuked Peter -[846.86 --> 849.42] Get behind me Satan -[849.42 --> 851.34] You do not have in mind -[851.34 --> 852.38] The concerns of God -[852.38 --> 854.16] But merely human concerns -[854.16 --> 857.76] Then he called the crowd to him -[857.76 --> 858.92] Along with his disciples -[858.92 --> 859.76] And said -[859.76 --> 862.34] Whoever wants to be my disciple -[862.34 --> 863.52] Must deny themselves -[863.52 --> 864.70] And take up their cross -[864.70 --> 865.54] And follow me -[865.54 --> 867.92] For whoever wants to save their life -[867.92 --> 868.56] Will lose it -[868.56 --> 870.82] But whoever loses their life for me -[870.82 --> 871.72] And for the gospel -[871.72 --> 872.66] Will save it -[872.66 --> 874.72] What good is it for someone -[874.72 --> 875.86] To gain the whole world -[875.86 --> 877.10] Yet forfeit their soul -[877.10 --> 879.90] Or what can anyone give -[879.90 --> 881.14] In exchange for their soul -[881.14 --> 883.50] If anyone is ashamed of me -[883.50 --> 884.38] And my words -[884.38 --> 885.34] In this adulterous -[885.34 --> 886.46] And sinful generation -[886.46 --> 888.00] The Son of Man -[888.00 --> 889.44] Will be ashamed of them -[889.44 --> 890.96] When he comes -[890.96 --> 892.30] In his Father's glory -[892.30 --> 893.54] With the holy angels -[893.54 --> 916.86] Alas, and did my Savior -[916.86 --> 923.16] And did my sovereign die -[923.16 --> 930.66] Would he devote that sacred bed -[930.66 --> 935.84] For such a firm as I -[935.84 --> 942.64] Was it for crimes that I had done -[942.64 --> 947.76] He'd groaned upon the tree -[947.76 --> 952.10] Amazing pity -[952.10 --> 954.36] Grace unknown -[954.36 --> 959.02] And a beyond degree -[959.02 --> 969.94] Well, might the Son in darkness hide -[969.94 --> 974.98] And shut his glories in -[974.98 --> 981.66] When Christ the mighty Maker died -[981.66 --> 986.62] For man the preacher's sin -[986.62 --> 993.36] Once might I hide my blushing face -[993.36 --> 998.68] While his dear cross appears -[998.68 --> 1005.28] Dissolve my heart in thankfulness -[1005.28 --> 1010.92] And melt my eyes with tears -[1010.92 --> 1017.62] But drops of grief -[1017.62 --> 1019.66] Can ne'er repay -[1019.66 --> 1025.66] The debt of the by-o'er -[1025.66 --> 1031.98] Here, Lord, I give myself away -[1031.98 --> 1037.30] Tis all that I can do -[1037.30 --> 1042.54] Alas, and did my Savior -[1042.54 --> 1043.66] Bleed -[1043.66 --> 1048.82] And did my sovereign die -[1048.82 --> 1052.70] Amazing pity -[1052.70 --> 1055.08] Grace unknown -[1055.08 --> 1059.78] And love beyond degree -[1059.78 --> 1080.94] Was it I, Lord, who fell asleep? -[1080.94 --> 1084.30] When you brought me in as your friend -[1084.30 --> 1085.76] And asked me to keep watch -[1085.76 --> 1086.36] To pray -[1086.36 --> 1087.30] To stay awake -[1087.30 --> 1088.82] As the darkness beckoned me -[1088.82 --> 1090.10] To sleep in my sin -[1090.10 --> 1094.00] Was it I who denied you, my Lord? -[1094.74 --> 1096.30] When they asked me about you -[1096.30 --> 1096.88] And your way -[1096.88 --> 1098.32] I shied away in fear -[1098.32 --> 1099.76] Lied away through the truth -[1099.76 --> 1101.34] To find a way without you -[1101.34 --> 1103.00] For momentary acceptance -[1103.00 --> 1106.80] Was it I who mocked you, my Lord? -[1107.40 --> 1109.08] When I said I know your laws -[1109.08 --> 1111.00] But self-righteously made my own -[1111.00 --> 1112.58] Without knowing you -[1112.58 --> 1113.52] Without loving you -[1113.52 --> 1115.58] Without walking in the way of life -[1115.58 --> 1118.04] Because my ways seemed to serve me better -[1118.04 --> 1121.84] Was it I who afflicted you, my Lord? -[1122.76 --> 1123.88] With my sin -[1123.88 --> 1125.04] With whips of leather -[1125.04 --> 1125.84] Spit of pride -[1125.84 --> 1126.92] And a crown of thorns -[1126.92 --> 1127.82] Driving the nails -[1127.82 --> 1128.74] Through your flesh -[1128.74 --> 1130.08] To the cross of Calvary -[1130.08 --> 1133.20] Yes -[1133.20 --> 1136.98] It is I who did this to you, my Lord -[1136.98 --> 1140.20] I confess I tried to hide -[1140.20 --> 1141.76] But it is I who has sinned -[1141.76 --> 1143.72] I confess I tried to justify -[1143.72 --> 1145.56] But it is I who broke your commands -[1145.56 --> 1148.48] I confess I tried to self-sanctify -[1148.48 --> 1150.12] But it is I who needs you -[1150.12 --> 1154.60] How could you ever forgive me, my Lord? -[1156.38 --> 1158.98] How could you ever come close to me, my Lord? -[1158.98 --> 1162.30] How could you ever renew this brokenness, my Lord? -[1162.30 --> 1166.34] Oh, the great mystery -[1166.34 --> 1168.86] That you wrap me in your love -[1168.86 --> 1170.14] And call me yours -[1170.14 --> 1173.04] That you draw me into awareness -[1173.04 --> 1175.24] Of your presence and delight in me -[1175.24 --> 1177.90] That you give me new life -[1177.90 --> 1179.10] In Christ Jesus -[1179.10 --> 1181.98] And teach me in the way I should go -[1181.98 --> 1186.72] Sanctifying my spirit, body, and soul -[1186.72 --> 1189.94] As you are able -[1189.94 --> 1191.20] Please rise -[1191.20 --> 1192.72] And let's sing together -[1192.72 --> 1194.32] Of our Lord's insurance -[1194.32 --> 1224.30] Rock of Ages -[1224.30 --> 1225.30] Let the Lord's insurance -[1225.30 --> 1227.30] That's left for me -[1227.30 --> 1234.30] Let me hide myself in thee -[1234.30 --> 1240.30] Let the water and the blood -[1240.30 --> 1247.62] From my wounded side which flows -[1247.62 --> 1253.30] Be a Savior, double cure -[1253.30 --> 1256.30] Save from wrath -[1256.30 --> 1260.30] And make me pure -[1260.30 --> 1272.30] Not the labors -[1272.30 --> 1275.30] Of my hands -[1276.04 --> 1278.30] Can fulfill -[1278.30 --> 1281.30] Thy lost demands -[1281.30 --> 1284.30] Could my zeal -[1284.30 --> 1285.30] Could my zeal -[1285.30 --> 1286.30] No respite -[1286.30 --> 1288.30] No -[1288.30 --> 1290.30] Could my tears -[1290.30 --> 1292.30] Forever flow -[1292.30 --> 1296.30] O Savior -[1296.30 --> 1298.30] Not atone -[1298.30 --> 1303.30] Thou must save it -[1303.30 --> 1304.30] Be alone -[1306.30 --> 1310.30] Feel -[1310.30 --> 1311.30] Though the sacrifice -[1311.30 --> 1312.30] And the most -[1312.30 --> 1313.30] Won't charge -[1313.30 --> 1314.30] Any day -[1314.30 --> 1315.30] And I know -[1315.30 --> 1317.34] May -[1317.34 --> 1327.30] May you come to thee -[1327.30 --> 1328.30] For prayer -[1328.30 --> 1335.34] Help us look to Thee for grace -[1335.34 --> 1341.62] Bow I to the fountain by -[1341.62 --> 1348.00] Watch me, Savior, or I die -[1358.30 --> 1364.48] Jesus, holy, pure and lovely -[1364.48 --> 1367.78] King of mercy -[1367.78 --> 1376.64] Jesus, holy, pure and lovely -[1376.64 --> 1379.88] King of mercy -[1379.88 --> 1388.78] You are Jesus, holy, pure and lovely -[1388.78 --> 1392.18] King of mercy -[1392.18 --> 1403.32] While my troubles bleating red -[1403.32 --> 1409.80] When my eyes shall close in death -[1409.80 --> 1415.68] When I soar to worlds unknown -[1415.68 --> 1422.92] See beyond my judgment throne -[1422.92 --> 1429.46] Rock of ages, glad for me -[1429.46 --> 1436.72] Let me hide myself in Thee -[1436.72 --> 1442.60] Kiss me, Savior, or I die -[1442.60 --> 1444.60] Kiss me, Savior, or I die -[1444.60 --> 1450.84] Oh, Jesus, holy, pure and lovely -[1450.84 --> 1452.60] King of mercy -[1452.60 --> 1464.48] Jesus, holy, pure and lovely -[1464.48 --> 1467.48] King of mercy -[1467.48 --> 1473.36] Hope of glory -[1473.36 --> 1476.36] Jesus, holy, pure and lovely -[1476.36 --> 1479.36] King of mercy -[1479.36 --> 1482.36] Hope of glory -[1482.36 --> 1487.36] Jesus, holy, pure and lovely -[1487.36 --> 1489.36] King of mercy -[1489.36 --> 1495.24] King of mercy -[1495.24 --> 1511.12] King of mercy -[1511.12 --> 1513.86] Hattelberg Catechism, question and answer 70 -[1513.86 --> 1517.00] I invite you to respond -[1517.00 --> 1523.00] What does it mean to be washed with Christ's blood and spirit? -[1523.00 --> 1526.80] To be washed with Christ's blood -[1526.80 --> 1530.88] It means that God, by grace, has forgiven our sins -[1530.88 --> 1537.68] Because of Christ's blood poured out for us in his sacrifice on the cross -[1537.68 --> 1545.68] To be washed with Christ's spirit means that the Holy Spirit has renewed and sanctified us -[1545.68 --> 1547.68] To be members of Christ's blood and sanctified us -[1547.68 --> 1552.68] So that more and more we can become dead to sin and live holy and blameless lives -[1552.68 --> 1563.92] Be -[1563.92 --> 1565.92] Oh -[1565.92 --> 1567.92] Oh -[1567.92 --> 1569.92] Oh -[1569.92 --> 1571.92] Oh -[1571.92 --> 1573.92] Oh -[1573.92 --> 1575.92] Oh -[1575.92 --> 1577.92] Oh -[1577.92 --> 1579.92] Oh -[1579.92 --> 1581.92] Oh -[1581.92 --> 1611.90] Oh -[1611.90 --> 1612.90] Oh -[1612.90 --> 1614.90] Oh -[1614.90 --> 1616.90] Oh -[1616.90 --> 1618.90] Oh -[1618.90 --> 1620.90] Oh -[1620.90 --> 1622.90] Oh -[1622.90 --> 1634.90] Oh -[1634.90 --> 1636.90] Oh -[1636.90 --> 1638.28] Oh -[1638.28 --> 1641.16] in Egypt's cell, -[1641.16 --> 1646.22] deeply, Lord, I pray. -[1650.22 --> 1656.16] Make me, hold me, -[1656.66 --> 1661.58] use me, fill me, -[1662.10 --> 1667.62] I give my life to the waters -[1667.62 --> 1671.30] and -[1671.30 --> 1679.24] call me, guide me, -[1679.86 --> 1684.84] lead me, walk beside me, -[1685.26 --> 1689.66] I give my life to the -[1689.66 --> 1692.62] Father's hand. -[1697.62 --> 1702.30] Wonderful Lord, wonderful Savior, -[1703.30 --> 1705.12] I know for sure, -[1706.12 --> 1711.30] all of my days are held in your hands, -[1711.30 --> 1719.30] crafted into your perfect land. -[1719.30 --> 1724.98] You gently call me into your presence, -[1724.98 --> 1727.98] guiding me by. -[1727.98 --> 1730.98] Your Holy Spirit, -[1730.98 --> 1732.98] teach me, dear Lord, -[1732.98 --> 1740.98] to live all my life through your eyes. -[1740.98 --> 1745.66] I'm captured by, -[1745.66 --> 1748.66] your holy calling, -[1748.66 --> 1751.66] set me apart, -[1751.66 --> 1757.66] I know you're drawing me to yourself, -[1757.66 --> 1763.16] lead me, Lord, I pray. -[1763.16 --> 1771.84] You may be, hold me, -[1771.84 --> 1777.84] use me, fill me, -[1777.84 --> 1784.84] I give my life to the Father's hand. -[1784.84 --> 1787.52] Lord, I pray. -[1787.52 --> 1788.52] I pray. -[1788.52 --> 1789.52] I pray. -[1789.52 --> 1790.52] I pray. -[1790.52 --> 1793.20] Lord, I pray. -[1793.20 --> 1794.20] I pray. -[1794.20 --> 1795.20] I pray. -[1795.20 --> 1797.20] You may be, -[1797.20 --> 1800.20] walk beside me, -[1800.20 --> 1809.20] I give my life to the Father's hand. -[1809.20 --> 1810.20] I pray. -[1810.20 --> 1811.20] I pray. -[1811.20 --> 1812.20] I pray. -[1812.20 --> 1813.20] I pray. -[1813.20 --> 1814.20] I pray. -[1814.20 --> 1816.20] Beautiful Lord, -[1816.20 --> 1819.20] wonderful Savior, -[1819.20 --> 1822.20] I know for sure, -[1822.20 --> 1828.20] all of my days are held in your hand, -[1828.20 --> 1837.20] crafted into your perfect land. -[1837.20 --> 1839.20] I pray. -[1839.20 --> 1840.20] I pray. -[1840.20 --> 1841.20] I pray. -[1841.20 --> 1842.20] I pray. -[1842.20 --> 1843.20] I pray. -[1843.20 --> 1844.20] I pray. -[1844.20 --> 1845.20] I pray. -[1845.20 --> 1846.20] I pray. -[1846.20 --> 1847.20] I pray. -[1847.20 --> 1848.20] I pray. -[1848.20 --> 1849.20] I pray. -[1849.20 --> 1850.20] I pray. -[1850.20 --> 1851.20] I pray. -[1851.20 --> 1852.20] I pray. -[1852.20 --> 1853.20] I pray. -[1853.20 --> 1854.20] I pray. -[1854.20 --> 1855.20] I pray. -[1855.20 --> 1856.20] I pray. -[1856.20 --> 1857.20] Good morning. -[1857.20 --> 1858.20] My name is Brenda, -[1858.20 --> 1860.06] and I'm one of the deacons here at Emmanuel. -[1860.06 --> 1863.20] We continue our worship with the giving of our gifts, -[1863.20 --> 1866.20] and our first offering is for the budget, -[1866.20 --> 1869.20] the ministries, and mission of this church. -[1869.20 --> 1875.20] And our special offering today is for adult and teen challenge. -[1875.20 --> 1877.20] And I'm going to invite Wendy up, -[1877.20 --> 1882.20] and she is going to share with us about their ministry. -[1882.20 --> 1885.20] Welcome, Wendy. -[1885.20 --> 1887.20] Thank you. -[1887.20 --> 1888.20] Thank you. -[1888.20 --> 1890.20] Yes, my name is Wendy Townsend. -[1890.20 --> 1896.20] I'm the center director of the Women's Center here in Surrey, -[1896.20 --> 1898.20] of Adult and Teen Challenge. -[1898.20 --> 1901.20] And we have the Men's Center here from Chilliwack as well. -[1901.20 --> 1906.20] We also have a center up in the Okanagan. -[1906.20 --> 1910.20] And one thing I wanted to say is that, because we go to a lot of different churches, -[1910.20 --> 1918.20] is that I love coming to a church where it's so evident that there's community and family. -[1918.20 --> 1920.20] And that's the sense I get with you guys. -[1920.20 --> 1923.20] Like, it seems like you enjoy life together. -[1923.20 --> 1927.20] And so that's just a little snippet of what I saw this morning. -[1927.20 --> 1930.20] So I'm so grateful that we're here. -[1930.20 --> 1936.20] Just a quick, how many have heard of Adult and Teen Challenge? -[1936.20 --> 1937.20] Yes. -[1937.20 --> 1943.20] So if you haven't, we have tables in the foyer of information, -[1943.20 --> 1946.20] get to know a little bit more about us. -[1946.20 --> 1947.20] Excuse me. -[1947.20 --> 1953.20] We're having a few of our students will be coming up. -[1953.20 --> 1960.20] And we call them students because we feel that it's discipleship that changes lives. -[1960.20 --> 1962.20] It's Jesus that changes lives. -[1962.20 --> 1970.20] Not just, you know, cleaning up and being sober and staying away and being abstinent from stuff. -[1970.20 --> 1975.20] It's actually changing something and being transformed from the heart. -[1975.20 --> 1983.20] And so, you know, we, yeah, treatment is important, but transformation is the key. -[1983.20 --> 1984.20] And that's what we go for. -[1984.20 --> 1987.20] And so it's a year-long program. -[1987.20 --> 1990.20] It's Bible-based. -[1990.20 --> 1998.20] So every, all the curriculum, Teen Challenge is worldwide, but all of the curriculum is the same. -[1998.20 --> 2001.20] It comes from the Word of God. -[2001.20 --> 2004.20] And so if you go to, just go to the next slide. -[2004.20 --> 2009.20] So we, it's 12 months, minimum of 12 months. -[2009.20 --> 2014.20] We also have an aftercare program where once they graduate, -[2014.20 --> 2022.20] they can come into either a leadership training program or you can just stay, -[2022.20 --> 2031.20] come under the covering, get a job, you know, volunteer at the center for that transition part. -[2031.20 --> 2032.20] Because it's really difficult. -[2032.20 --> 2034.20] Everything changes. -[2034.20 --> 2037.20] When somebody comes into the program, everything changes. -[2037.20 --> 2039.20] Their friends change. -[2039.20 --> 2044.20] A lot of times their family aren't healthy, so they need to have boundaries with them. -[2044.20 --> 2046.20] And it's a new life. -[2046.20 --> 2054.20] And so we try to get, as they're going through the program, getting into a church, getting into community, -[2054.20 --> 2059.20] building a new life because it's different. -[2059.20 --> 2061.20] You can't go back to the old. -[2061.20 --> 2065.20] You can't go back to things that are going to drag you down. -[2065.20 --> 2070.20] And so we provide that environment with, in our residential. -[2070.20 --> 2074.20] We also have work experience programs, social enterprise. -[2074.20 --> 2078.20] The men's center, they have, it's called Good Taco. -[2078.20 --> 2081.20] And so we bought a franchise out in Chilliwack. -[2081.20 --> 2084.20] And the men do their work experience there. -[2084.20 --> 2091.20] Our women, we go to, we got a franchise, a noodle box out in Surrey. -[2091.20 --> 2095.20] And so if you want any more information on those, come and visit us. -[2095.20 --> 2100.20] The men and women who are going through the program work there. -[2100.20 --> 2107.20] And it's providing a really safe environment for people to go and get experience. -[2107.20 --> 2112.20] And it also does generate some income for our, for our centers. -[2112.20 --> 2116.20] And then community care offices. -[2116.20 --> 2123.20] We don't have any local ones, but we do have, it just provides information. -[2123.20 --> 2128.20] And getting involved with other organizations that deal with addictions. -[2128.20 --> 2134.20] And bringing people in, because not everybody can do a year long. -[2134.20 --> 2138.20] It's really difficult sometimes with, if they have children, -[2138.20 --> 2142.20] they're not able to have somebody care for their children while they're going through treatment. -[2142.20 --> 2147.20] So we want to provide avenues for people to come and get some help. -[2147.20 --> 2152.20] And learn that they don't have to live the way that they've been living. -[2152.20 --> 2154.20] There is freedom in it. -[2154.20 --> 2159.20] There's freedom from, from any type of addiction. -[2159.20 --> 2160.20] There's freedom. -[2160.20 --> 2165.20] And so we have seen, I get the privilege, I've been doing this for 12 years. -[2165.20 --> 2172.20] I get the privilege of watching men and women grow, get set free, start giving back into the community, -[2172.20 --> 2174.20] start serving in the ministry. -[2174.20 --> 2180.20] And it's, it's been a challenge sometimes, hence the name. -[2180.20 --> 2188.20] However, there's also been such rewarding experiences of seeing these men and women restore their families, -[2188.20 --> 2196.20] get their kids back, get back into relationship, restore with, with parents and siblings. -[2196.20 --> 2198.20] And it's pretty amazing. -[2198.20 --> 2203.20] So we're going to have, um, for two, two of the women and two of the guys come up. -[2203.20 --> 2206.20] And you guys can probably stand up in here. -[2206.20 --> 2207.20] Come on. -[2207.20 --> 2208.20] Come on. -[2208.20 --> 2209.20] Come on. -[2209.20 --> 2212.20] And, uh, they're going to give just a snippet of their story. -[2212.20 --> 2217.20] Um, and so we call it, yeah, go in front here. -[2217.20 --> 2220.20] And we call it Reality Is. -[2220.20 --> 2223.20] And so, um, they're going to present that to you now. -[2223.20 --> 2234.20] What is reality? -[2234.20 --> 2242.20] Reality is, growing up, witnessing your mom's struggle with addiction, causing a very unstable and unpredictable environment, -[2242.20 --> 2248.20] eventually losing her to a drug overdose, blaming yourself, leaving you traumatized, full of fear and full of pain. -[2248.20 --> 2254.20] Reality is, searching for an identity and finding an escape from, and an escape from reality, -[2254.20 --> 2257.20] finding one in drug men's, men and gang activity. -[2257.20 --> 2262.20] Reality is, making your addiction a priority over your own family, -[2262.20 --> 2269.20] and having your brother find you unconscious and overdosed, completely shattering an already fragile relationship. -[2269.20 --> 2277.20] Reality is, being so weighed down from the chains of addiction, feeling so hopeless to ever find a way out, causing you to give up completely. -[2277.20 --> 2281.20] How do I know that was reality? Because that was me. -[2281.20 --> 2291.20] Reality is, smoking and isolating in your room most of your life because you don't feel loved and accepted by the world. -[2291.20 --> 2297.20] Reality is, being so addicted to drugs that you steal money and sell things from your family and friends. -[2297.20 --> 2305.20] Reality is, having no hope in changing, and feeling powerless over my addiction, believing there's no point in living. -[2305.20 --> 2308.20] How do I know that was reality? Because that was me. -[2308.20 --> 2315.20] Reality is, when the enemy tries to take your life when you were born. -[2315.20 --> 2319.20] Reality is, when you've grown up feeling like you don't matter to anyone. -[2319.20 --> 2323.20] Reality is, when your mom passed away leaving you and your family in chaos. -[2323.20 --> 2330.20] Reality is, when your innocence was taken from you when you were 16, through intoxication of alcohol, which caused you to blame yourself. -[2330.20 --> 2335.20] How do I know that's reality? Because that was me. -[2335.20 --> 2340.20] Reality is, dropping out of high school to pursue a career in crime. -[2340.20 --> 2350.20] Reality is, giving your dad chest compressions until the ambulance arrives, going to the hospital to find out he passed away. -[2350.20 --> 2359.20] Reality is, continuously going back to the people that harmed you, robbed you, mentally scarred you, because you found comfort in their chaos. -[2359.20 --> 2364.20] How do I know that was reality? Because that was me. -[2364.20 --> 2372.20] Although we all have different realities, we were all saved by the same truth. -[2372.20 --> 2377.20] The truth is, the Lord is healing my heart and redeeming what the locusts have eaten. -[2377.20 --> 2386.20] Ten years to the exact date of losing my mom, I walked into the doors of Adult and Teen Challenge, marking the first day of the rest of my life. -[2386.20 --> 2394.20] The truth is, I wouldn't change my reality now. He has given me a new name, and like the prodigal, he called me back to him. -[2394.20 --> 2399.20] I am discovering just exactly who I am in Christ, and my identity is secured. -[2399.20 --> 2404.20] The truth is, the Lord restored not just me, but my family as well. -[2404.20 --> 2409.20] He answered the faithful, persistent prayers of my grandparents pleading with him to save me, -[2409.20 --> 2413.20] and my relationships are being restored to even stronger than before. -[2413.20 --> 2424.20] The truth is, he broke the chains that once weighed me down. He redeemed me, forgave me, and by his blood I am free. -[2424.20 --> 2428.20] The truth is, God loves me more than anyone in this world. -[2428.20 --> 2434.20] And he proved it by sending Jesus to die on the cross, which crucified my false belief that I am not accepted. -[2434.20 --> 2444.20] The truth is, Jesus has made so many amazing promises to me, including that he will give me rest and freedom from my burdens, if I pick up my cross and follow him. -[2444.20 --> 2448.20] The truth is, as it says in Colossians 1.13, -[2448.20 --> 2455.20] for he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves. -[2455.20 --> 2462.20] The truth is, I am here for a specific purpose, to fulfill God's assignment. I am a child of God. -[2462.20 --> 2466.20] The truth is, I am important, I am loved, and I am worthy. -[2466.20 --> 2475.20] The truth is, my mom is with God and isn't suffering anymore, and my family and I are safe in God's arms, where there is no chaos, only peace. -[2475.20 --> 2479.20] The truth is, I am still pure in the eyes of my heavenly Father. -[2479.20 --> 2481.20] Psalm 25, verse 5. -[2481.20 --> 2487.20] Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you. -[2487.20 --> 2495.20] The truth is, I am not a slave to my sin anymore, I am a child of God. -[2495.20 --> 2499.20] 1 Peter 1, verses 14-15 says, -[2499.20 --> 2508.20] As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct. -[2508.20 --> 2513.20] Truth is, in the midst of a storm, he was using it to shape and develop my character. -[2513.20 --> 2515.20] Romans chapter 5, verses 3-4 says, -[2515.20 --> 2524.20] Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope. -[2524.20 --> 2532.20] Truth is, there is no need for me to go back to the people who hurt me, robbed me, mentally scarred me, because I found someone who loves me. -[2532.20 --> 2535.20] Ephesians chapter 1, verses 4-5 says, -[2535.20 --> 2541.20] Even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. -[2541.20 --> 2549.20] In love, he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will. -[2549.20 --> 2551.20] And Jesus said, -[2551.20 --> 2555.20] You shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free. -[2555.20 --> 2556.20] Amen. -[2556.20 --> 2569.20] Thank you so much, you guys. -[2569.20 --> 2577.20] You know, there's so many ways that you can partner with us. -[2577.20 --> 2580.20] As far as praying for us, pray for these men and women. -[2580.20 --> 2584.20] We've had a challenging time with intake for the Women's Center. -[2584.20 --> 2589.20] There's a number of reasons why it's getting more and more difficult. -[2589.20 --> 2592.20] And so you can pray for us, please. -[2592.20 --> 2599.20] Just in that, there's so many out there, you would think that we would be busting full, but we're not. -[2599.20 --> 2609.20] And there's so many barriers for men and women right now that are making it very difficult for them to find freedom. -[2609.20 --> 2614.20] And there's so many things that the government are doing that are keeping people stuck. -[2614.20 --> 2616.20] And it breaks my heart, actually. -[2616.20 --> 2624.20] But you can pray, because we know that the power of prayer is so important for our ministry. -[2624.20 --> 2629.20] Just quickly, a couple more things. -[2629.20 --> 2632.20] We're doing a dessert night. -[2632.20 --> 2634.20] It's next Saturday. -[2634.20 --> 2635.20] It's still time. -[2635.20 --> 2638.20] You still have time to get tickets if you want. -[2638.20 --> 2640.20] So talk to us out in the foyer. -[2640.20 --> 2647.20] And so you'll be able to hear more testimonies and excuse me. -[2647.20 --> 2651.20] Yeah, just get to learn more about our ministry. -[2651.20 --> 2655.20] And then the final slide is, oh, yeah, that's just how to give. -[2655.20 --> 2658.20] So we appreciate your guys' support. -[2658.20 --> 2668.20] If any of the students and myself will be willing to ask any questions or answer any questions that you have. -[2668.20 --> 2674.20] If you know somebody who's struggling, because I think we all know somebody who might be struggling, -[2674.20 --> 2678.20] please come and take some information and some cards. -[2678.20 --> 2680.20] And so thank you again. -[2685.20 --> 2698.20] Thank you so much, Wendy and students, for being here and for sharing the realities and the truth. -[2698.20 --> 2701.20] We thank you and we will pray for you. -[2715.20 --> 2716.20] Thank you. -[2745.20 --> 2747.20] Oh, God. -[2747.20 --> 2748.20] All right. -[2748.20 --> 2749.20] All right. -[2749.20 --> 2750.20] And to God. -[2750.20 --> 2751.20] Also peace and peace and peace. -[2751.20 --> 2752.20] It's the church and peace. -[2752.20 --> 2753.20] People are getting people to live in thejoys and deuce available here. -[2753.20 --> 2754.20] All right. -[2754.20 --> 2755.20] And you have to give yourself a question. -[2755.20 --> 2756.20] Great. -[2756.20 --> 2757.20] All right. -[2757.20 --> 2758.20] And you have to give them such a battle. -[2758.20 --> 2759.20] And you have to give this joy. -[2759.20 --> 2760.20] And coś can be really good. -[2760.20 --> 2762.20] And so that's just the Gom King. -[2762.20 --> 2763.44] And it's the one man for child, too. -[2763.44 --> 2765.44] And there are still a battle named the heaven. -[2765.44 --> 2766.44] You have to give football. -[2766.44 --> 2768.44] And we have to have to give your aside. -[2768.44 --> 2769.46] Good path. -[2769.46 --> 2770.44] And with some of the great. -[2770.44 --> 2771.26] And we have to give our freedom -[2771.26 --> 2772.76] As SHE can learn. -[2772.76 --> 2775.12] And as well, Paul think live andseits have to believe in the world. -[2775.20 --> 2777.20] Amen. -[2805.20 --> 2807.20] Amen. -[2835.20 --> 2837.20] Amen. -[2865.20 --> 2867.20] Come on up, come on up, come on up. -[2867.20 --> 2870.20] Oh, don't touch, don't touch. -[2870.20 --> 2871.20] All right. -[2871.20 --> 2873.20] How are we all doing? -[2873.20 --> 2874.20] Good. -[2874.20 --> 2876.20] I think Hank is sleeping. -[2876.20 --> 2878.20] He's so tired all the time. -[2878.20 --> 2883.20] Do you think you can wake him up? -[2883.20 --> 2885.20] Can you on the count of three say, -[2885.20 --> 2887.20] good morning, Hank, really loud? -[2887.20 --> 2889.20] Yeah, okay, one, two, three. -[2889.20 --> 2891.20] Good morning, Hank! -[2891.20 --> 2892.20] Ah! -[2892.20 --> 2894.20] Hi, kids! -[2894.20 --> 2896.20] How are you? -[2896.20 --> 2898.20] It's so good to see you again. -[2898.20 --> 2900.20] Hey, Hank, how are you doing? -[2900.20 --> 2901.20] Good. -[2901.20 --> 2902.20] What were you up to this week? -[2902.20 --> 2905.20] I went to the dog park again. -[2905.20 --> 2906.20] You did? -[2906.20 --> 2908.20] Yeah, I love the dog park. -[2908.20 --> 2910.20] And do you have any stories again? -[2910.20 --> 2911.20] Mm-hmm. -[2911.20 --> 2913.20] They're not very good stories. -[2913.20 --> 2915.20] I kind of made a few mistakes. -[2915.20 --> 2916.20] You did, Hank. -[2916.20 --> 2917.20] Oh, no. -[2917.20 --> 2918.20] Do you want to tell us about it? -[2918.20 --> 2919.20] Yeah. -[2919.20 --> 2929.20] I was at the dog park, and my friend, Bikonce the Goose, she came up to me and said, -[2929.20 --> 2931.20] Do I look good, Hank? -[2931.20 --> 2932.20] And what did you say? -[2932.20 --> 2936.20] I said, Well, your beak is really beaky. -[2936.20 --> 2937.20] Oh, Hank. -[2937.20 --> 2938.20] Beaky? -[2938.20 --> 2939.20] Yeah. -[2939.20 --> 2942.20] She didn't like that, and she put her head down and walked away. -[2942.20 --> 2944.20] Oh, no, Hank, that's not good. -[2944.20 --> 2946.20] Yeah, it gets worse. -[2946.20 --> 2947.20] Oh, no. -[2947.20 --> 2948.20] Yeah. -[2948.20 --> 2949.20] Yeah. -[2949.20 --> 2950.20] Yeah. -[2950.20 --> 2957.20] Officer Scamperpants the Squirrel came by and said, Do I look like someone with authority? -[2957.20 --> 2959.20] He's on the park patrol. -[2959.20 --> 2960.20] Oh, boy. -[2960.20 --> 2961.20] And what did you say? -[2961.20 --> 2965.20] I said, Well, your tail is kind of bushy. -[2965.20 --> 2967.20] Well, that probably didn't help, did it? -[2967.20 --> 2969.20] No, he didn't really like that. -[2969.20 --> 2971.20] He gave me a citation and walked away. -[2971.20 --> 2972.20] Oh, no. -[2972.20 --> 2974.20] Yeah, it gets worse. -[2974.20 --> 2975.20] Oh, no. -[2975.20 --> 2976.20] What happened next? -[2976.20 --> 2981.20] Well, I went to the back corner and I started sniffing around a bench, and that's when Invisible -[2981.20 --> 2983.20] Dave popped up. -[2983.20 --> 2985.20] Who's Invisible Dave? -[2985.20 --> 2987.20] He's my chameleon friend. -[2987.20 --> 2990.20] Oh, and what happened with Invisible Dave? -[2990.20 --> 2992.20] Well, he asked if I noticed him. -[2992.20 --> 2993.20] And? -[2993.20 --> 2994.20] What did you say? -[2994.20 --> 2996.20] Well, honestly, I didn't. -[2996.20 --> 2998.20] He blended right into the bench. -[2998.20 --> 2999.20] Hmm. -[2999.20 --> 3001.20] He probably didn't like that so much, did he? -[3001.20 --> 3002.20] No. -[3002.20 --> 3003.20] He was a little bit sad, too. -[3003.20 --> 3005.20] And then I remembered something. -[3005.20 --> 3006.20] What's that? -[3006.20 --> 3009.20] People like to be encouraged. -[3009.20 --> 3010.20] That's right. -[3010.20 --> 3013.20] They like it when you say nice things about them and show them that you love them. -[3013.20 --> 3014.20] Yeah. -[3014.20 --> 3016.20] So I went up to Bicconce. -[3016.20 --> 3017.20] There's a theme with those names. -[3017.20 --> 3018.20] I didn't name them. -[3018.20 --> 3019.20] That's fair. -[3019.20 --> 3024.20] I went up to Bicconce and said, you have beautiful feathers, too. -[3024.20 --> 3026.20] And you are glamorous. -[3026.20 --> 3027.20] And did she like that? -[3027.20 --> 3028.20] She did. -[3028.20 --> 3033.20] And then I went up to Officer Scamperpants and I said, you do have authority because you -[3033.20 --> 3036.20] are everywhere all the time. -[3036.20 --> 3038.20] And he loved that, I bet. -[3038.20 --> 3039.20] He did. -[3039.20 --> 3044.20] And then it took me a while, but I found Invisible Dave on the tree. -[3044.20 --> 3050.20] And I said, Invisible Dave, you are a masterpiece because God can make you any color you want -[3050.20 --> 3051.20] to be. -[3051.20 --> 3052.20] Oh, that's nice, Hank. -[3052.20 --> 3053.20] He liked that. -[3053.20 --> 3054.20] That's right. -[3054.20 --> 3055.20] And you know what? -[3055.20 --> 3058.20] You did learn a good lesson because it's important for us to encourage people, to lift -[3058.20 --> 3059.20] them up, right? -[3059.20 --> 3060.20] Yeah. -[3060.20 --> 3062.20] People like to be lifted up and encouraged. -[3062.20 --> 3065.20] Well, you know what we're going to talk today or about today in children's worship time? -[3065.20 --> 3066.20] What's that? -[3066.20 --> 3069.20] Well, we also just heard some stories from Teen Challenge. -[3069.20 --> 3070.20] I don't know. -[3070.20 --> 3071.20] You were sleeping, maybe. -[3071.20 --> 3072.20] Did you hear them? -[3072.20 --> 3073.20] I did. -[3073.20 --> 3077.20] Well, they told stories about how they were lifted up by God and how we're all lifted -[3077.20 --> 3078.20] up by God. -[3078.20 --> 3085.20] And because of that, Jesus needs to be worshiped and exalted and lifted up even more, right? -[3085.20 --> 3086.20] Yeah. -[3086.20 --> 3088.20] So we're going to talk about that in children's worship time today. -[3088.20 --> 3089.20] Does that make sense? -[3089.20 --> 3090.20] Yeah? -[3090.20 --> 3091.20] Sound good? -[3091.20 --> 3092.20] Okay. -[3092.20 --> 3094.20] We're going to pray and then we're going to do the kids blessing and then we're going -[3094.20 --> 3095.20] to go off to children's worship time. -[3095.20 --> 3096.20] Yeah! -[3096.20 --> 3097.20] All right. -[3097.20 --> 3098.20] Let's pray. -[3098.20 --> 3099.20] Bow our heads. -[3099.20 --> 3100.20] Close our eyes. -[3100.20 --> 3101.20] God, thank you so much for today. -[3101.20 --> 3104.20] Thank you that we could be here in church, that we could hear stories about how you're -[3104.20 --> 3107.20] so active in our lives and that we could learn more about you. -[3107.20 --> 3108.20] We pray that you'll be with us now. -[3108.20 --> 3112.20] The kids as we go to children's worship time and the grown ups as we stay back here. -[3112.20 --> 3116.20] Lord, we just pray that you will teach us more about what it means to follow you. -[3116.20 --> 3117.20] We pray this in your name. -[3117.20 --> 3118.20] Amen. -[3118.20 --> 3119.20] Amen. -[3119.20 --> 3120.20] Okay, kids, let's stand up. -[3120.20 --> 3121.20] Church, you as well, please. -[3121.20 --> 3123.20] Everybody on your feet. -[3123.20 --> 3127.20] The kids on the count of three, they're going to say, the Lord be with you and then you can -[3127.20 --> 3128.20] respond in kind. -[3128.20 --> 3129.20] All right? -[3129.20 --> 3130.20] So kids, are you ready? -[3130.20 --> 3131.20] One, two, three. -[3131.20 --> 3133.20] The Lord be with you. -[3133.20 --> 3135.20] And also with you. -[3135.20 --> 3163.20] With you. -[3163.20 --> 3167.12] My name is John and I'm one of the elders of the church here. -[3167.62 --> 3171.24] I'd like to lead us in our congregational prayer this morning. -[3174.46 --> 3177.38] The words of the psalmist ring true for us today, Lord. -[3178.42 --> 3179.88] The words of Psalm 100. -[3180.16 --> 3182.88] Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. -[3183.62 --> 3185.12] Worship the Lord with gladness. -[3186.02 --> 3187.82] Come before him with joyful songs. -[3188.96 --> 3190.34] Know that the Lord is God. -[3190.34 --> 3191.98] It is he who made us. -[3191.98 --> 3193.24] We are his. -[3193.72 --> 3196.16] We are his people, the sheep of his pasture. -[3197.62 --> 3200.64] Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise. -[3201.64 --> 3204.42] Give thanks to him and praise his name. -[3205.42 --> 3208.02] For the Lord is good and his love endures forever. -[3208.98 --> 3211.32] His faithfulness through all generations. -[3213.34 --> 3216.24] Lord, you are this God that we read about in the Psalms. -[3216.84 --> 3218.98] And we are here today to worship you. -[3218.98 --> 3222.90] We are here to give you the honor and glory that is due your name. -[3224.32 --> 3226.52] Lord, we as sinful people come before you. -[3228.40 --> 3230.88] Lord, sometimes we don't realize we are broken. -[3232.08 --> 3233.68] Sometimes we don't want to acknowledge that. -[3233.76 --> 3235.90] But we come, Lord, as sinners before your throne. -[3235.90 --> 3247.58] We acknowledge that your son has done for us such a great act that we are here, Lord, to give you the honor and glory that is due your name. -[3249.20 --> 3253.70] Lord, we're thankful for the opportunity to be able to worship in your house this morning. -[3254.42 --> 3256.28] Lord, those who wanted to come. -[3256.70 --> 3258.64] Lord, we pray for those that did not want to. -[3259.34 --> 3260.54] Pray for those that could not. -[3260.54 --> 3265.54] Lord, those who are dealing with illnesses and not able to be here. -[3266.24 --> 3270.20] Lord, we ask a blessing for those in our church family who are recovering from surgery. -[3270.78 --> 3274.18] Pray for Emily and Judy as they recover from hip surgery. -[3275.40 --> 3281.94] Lord, we pray for those that are dealing with cancer like Tessa, Tanya, and Doug who are going through treatments. -[3282.82 --> 3283.96] And looking forward to healing. -[3284.50 --> 3287.52] Pray a blessing for each one as they go through that difficult journey. -[3287.52 --> 3293.64] Lord, we pray for Lena as well that she's being able to return home again. -[3293.74 --> 3296.86] We pray for blessing for her for continued recovery. -[3297.30 --> 3303.42] And Lord, we pray for those that are suffering silently. -[3303.78 --> 3305.72] Those who we don't always see every day. -[3306.34 --> 3307.90] Those who are dealing with mental illnesses. -[3308.10 --> 3309.64] Those who are dealing with addictions. -[3311.00 --> 3314.06] Lord, may your spirit be with each one in their journeys. -[3314.06 --> 3325.54] Lord, we're thankful for the opportunities that this church has to reach out and serve not only in our own church community but elsewhere. -[3327.00 --> 3335.24] Lord, that our work that may be done to your honor and glory, that we may show your light to those around us. -[3335.24 --> 3347.50] Lord, we had a mention this morning of Kevin becoming an ordained pastor in this following year. -[3348.92 --> 3352.74] Lord, we pray a blessing on him as he finishes his last lessons. -[3353.08 --> 3356.98] And Lord, we have this meeting this coming up Tuesday. -[3356.98 --> 3365.66] Lord, we ask a blessing as we discuss and work together to build our community up with the work that Kevin is to do here. -[3368.14 --> 3374.68] And Lord, we as a community are also looking for new office bearers to fill positions for the coming terms. -[3375.30 --> 3378.38] We pray a blessing for those whose hearts are open to serve. -[3378.38 --> 3388.82] Lord, we're thankful for the message that a few of these members of Teen Challenge were able to bless us with this morning. -[3390.40 --> 3394.42] We see your spirit at work in this group and we pray a blessing on their work. -[3395.70 --> 3403.24] That they may continue to be an effective witness for those that are having a difficult time in life. -[3403.24 --> 3410.92] Lord, we pray for blessings of prayer and financial needs that need to be met. -[3414.50 --> 3418.28] Lord, we pray a blessing on Pastor Chris. -[3418.40 --> 3420.38] Lord, as he preaches your word to us this morning, -[3422.10 --> 3425.88] that his words may be your words to us as a community. -[3426.62 --> 3432.30] We may take that to heart and take it to our lives and workplaces in this coming week. -[3433.24 --> 3438.08] Lord, Psalm 105 says, -[3438.92 --> 3441.66] Look to you in your strength. -[3442.56 --> 3444.10] Seek your face always. -[3445.16 --> 3446.88] Lord, as we go in this coming week, -[3447.20 --> 3450.00] may that be something that we are able to do, -[3450.68 --> 3452.68] not through our own strength, -[3453.26 --> 3456.42] but through the blessing of your spirit -[3456.42 --> 3459.56] and the work that Jesus Christ has done for us on the cross. -[3460.30 --> 3462.66] As we ask in your name alone, amen. -[3463.24 --> 3464.24] Thank you. -[3478.66 --> 3481.42] Before we open the scripture and continue on, -[3481.52 --> 3482.30] may I just say, -[3482.70 --> 3484.94] it is so good to be with you this morning. -[3485.10 --> 3487.00] It is so good to hear from you, -[3487.14 --> 3489.16] Wendy, and everyone who is up on stage. -[3489.84 --> 3490.76] The Lord bless you. -[3491.20 --> 3494.34] Thank you for blessing us with your testimony and your story. -[3494.44 --> 3495.88] Thank you for giving us an example -[3495.88 --> 3501.16] of how God's truth overcomes even the darkest realities. -[3501.72 --> 3502.42] And that's amazing. -[3502.58 --> 3503.22] Thank you for that. -[3503.42 --> 3504.20] And in fact, -[3504.32 --> 3506.54] that is so illustrative of the sermon -[3506.54 --> 3508.98] that the Lord has laid on my heart for us this morning -[3508.98 --> 3511.48] that only the Holy Spirit could be at work -[3511.48 --> 3512.80] in the midst of what's going on here. -[3512.80 --> 3515.50] We're going to continue in our series -[3515.50 --> 3517.90] through the book of Thessalonians. -[3518.00 --> 3519.28] We're in 1 Thessalonians. -[3519.60 --> 3521.92] We're going to read together from chapter 5, -[3522.04 --> 3523.82] verses 16 through 22. -[3524.06 --> 3524.96] The first time through, -[3525.04 --> 3526.58] it will be on the screen behind me. -[3526.92 --> 3527.44] But of course, -[3527.50 --> 3528.94] I invite you to open up your own Bible -[3528.94 --> 3531.28] or if you have a device with the Bible app on it, -[3531.34 --> 3532.30] go there. -[3532.48 --> 3534.56] If you're looking for a Bible to get your hands on, -[3534.62 --> 3535.52] there are some at the back. -[3535.72 --> 3536.60] You can grab one of those. -[3537.46 --> 3538.16] Open it up, -[3538.24 --> 3539.10] read through with us, -[3539.14 --> 3540.08] and then keep it open -[3540.08 --> 3541.04] as, of course, -[3541.10 --> 3543.46] we'll be digging deep into these words. -[3544.68 --> 3546.74] Let me begin by reading together -[3546.74 --> 3549.26] one time through 1 Thessalonians 5, -[3549.26 --> 3552.38] starting at verse 16 through to 22. -[3554.44 --> 3555.98] Rejoice always. -[3557.36 --> 3558.46] Pray continually. -[3559.42 --> 3561.24] Give thanks in all circumstances, -[3561.66 --> 3565.66] for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. -[3566.60 --> 3568.98] Do not quench the Spirit. -[3569.94 --> 3572.12] Do not treat prophecies with contempt, -[3572.44 --> 3573.72] but test them all. -[3574.18 --> 3575.88] Hold on to what is good. -[3576.36 --> 3579.16] Reject every kind of evil. -[3579.68 --> 3581.08] This is the word of the Lord. -[3584.74 --> 3586.54] We're going to jump right in -[3586.54 --> 3588.54] to this morning together. -[3589.90 --> 3590.86] And this morning, -[3591.02 --> 3592.66] in this text here, -[3592.76 --> 3594.44] what I hope and pray -[3594.44 --> 3597.06] that the Spirit will help us to see -[3597.06 --> 3599.04] is that we might see -[3599.04 --> 3600.36] what it means -[3600.36 --> 3603.04] to live a life in Christ -[3603.04 --> 3606.00] drenched in the Holy Spirit. -[3606.72 --> 3608.04] That's the big idea -[3608.04 --> 3609.20] for us this morning. -[3609.36 --> 3611.38] Life in Christ Jesus -[3611.38 --> 3612.42] is lived, -[3612.76 --> 3614.94] drenched in the Holy Spirit. -[3615.90 --> 3616.48] Now, -[3617.20 --> 3618.42] when I say that, -[3618.80 --> 3619.50] immediately, -[3619.50 --> 3621.22] some of you -[3621.22 --> 3622.98] have all sorts of ideas -[3622.98 --> 3624.92] about what that's supposed to look like -[3624.92 --> 3626.08] and what that might mean. -[3627.54 --> 3628.46] Some of you -[3628.46 --> 3630.34] have no idea -[3630.34 --> 3632.20] about what that's supposed to look like -[3632.20 --> 3633.50] and what that might mean. -[3634.94 --> 3636.70] Let's see if we can figure out together -[3636.70 --> 3638.14] just what the Bible means -[3638.14 --> 3639.70] when we hear that -[3639.70 --> 3642.02] and when we see that kind of language. -[3643.46 --> 3643.62] Now, -[3643.68 --> 3645.26] in the text that we read here, -[3645.26 --> 3646.72] there are sort of -[3646.72 --> 3649.20] two obvious halves -[3649.20 --> 3650.86] for us this morning. -[3651.68 --> 3652.84] The first half -[3652.84 --> 3655.74] are positive imperatives -[3655.74 --> 3657.68] as an explanation -[3657.68 --> 3660.66] of what God's will for you -[3660.66 --> 3662.78] in Christ Jesus is. -[3663.58 --> 3663.84] Right? -[3663.94 --> 3665.36] To rejoice always, -[3665.70 --> 3666.86] to pray continually, -[3667.24 --> 3668.40] and to give thanks -[3668.40 --> 3669.48] in every circumstance. -[3670.46 --> 3671.84] And the second half -[3671.84 --> 3672.62] of what we read -[3672.62 --> 3673.74] sort of stacks -[3673.74 --> 3675.40] negative imperatives. -[3675.56 --> 3676.34] That's things -[3676.34 --> 3677.50] people in Christ -[3677.50 --> 3678.64] should not do. -[3679.28 --> 3679.44] Right? -[3679.48 --> 3680.78] Do not quench the Spirit. -[3681.14 --> 3682.34] Do not treat prophecies -[3682.34 --> 3683.16] with contempt -[3683.16 --> 3684.38] and reject -[3684.38 --> 3685.80] or don't entertain -[3685.80 --> 3686.96] every kind, -[3687.08 --> 3687.72] any kind -[3687.72 --> 3688.54] of evil. -[3689.68 --> 3690.02] Now, -[3690.08 --> 3690.94] I think that both -[3690.94 --> 3692.44] of these halves -[3692.44 --> 3693.62] are part -[3693.62 --> 3695.50] of the whole picture -[3695.50 --> 3696.76] of what it means -[3696.76 --> 3697.66] to live -[3697.66 --> 3698.48] as one -[3698.48 --> 3699.76] in Christ -[3699.76 --> 3700.34] Jesus. -[3701.62 --> 3702.68] And I want us -[3702.68 --> 3703.52] to be really clear -[3703.52 --> 3705.06] about this. -[3706.52 --> 3707.40] The kind -[3707.40 --> 3708.14] of life -[3708.14 --> 3709.58] that the scriptures -[3709.58 --> 3710.54] have outlined -[3710.54 --> 3711.50] for us -[3711.50 --> 3712.68] and call us -[3712.68 --> 3713.08] to -[3713.08 --> 3714.74] as believers, -[3715.34 --> 3716.34] the person -[3716.34 --> 3718.08] who is in Christ -[3718.08 --> 3719.30] is commanded -[3719.30 --> 3720.60] to live this way, -[3720.78 --> 3721.56] and that part -[3721.56 --> 3722.70] in Christ -[3722.70 --> 3723.98] is critical -[3723.98 --> 3725.56] for these commands. -[3726.46 --> 3726.60] Right? -[3726.64 --> 3727.42] The way of life -[3727.42 --> 3728.60] that we are to be -[3728.60 --> 3729.08] about -[3729.08 --> 3730.86] is only possible -[3730.86 --> 3731.78] for those -[3731.78 --> 3733.00] who are in Christ -[3733.00 --> 3734.22] because it is -[3734.22 --> 3735.54] the life of Christ -[3735.54 --> 3736.56] we are living. -[3738.48 --> 3739.12] And so, -[3739.20 --> 3739.70] that's where I want to -[3739.70 --> 3741.06] dive in together. -[3741.20 --> 3742.04] What does that mean? -[3742.34 --> 3742.52] Right? -[3742.64 --> 3743.60] For you -[3743.60 --> 3744.60] in Christ -[3744.60 --> 3745.18] Jesus. -[3746.74 --> 3747.18] Now, -[3747.22 --> 3747.98] for those who know me -[3747.98 --> 3748.72] know that I -[3748.72 --> 3750.64] am a bit of a grammar nerd, -[3750.74 --> 3751.36] although not as big -[3751.36 --> 3751.88] as Jackie -[3751.88 --> 3752.68] over there. -[3752.68 --> 3754.98] But, -[3755.10 --> 3756.14] because of that, -[3756.24 --> 3757.10] I want you to hear -[3757.10 --> 3758.16] that the preposition -[3758.16 --> 3759.22] matters. -[3760.48 --> 3760.94] Right? -[3761.00 --> 3761.72] The preposition, -[3761.96 --> 3762.44] in this case, -[3762.58 --> 3763.70] extends the pronoun. -[3764.32 --> 3764.42] Now, -[3764.48 --> 3765.56] so when you read that, -[3765.80 --> 3766.82] you might read it -[3766.82 --> 3767.48] and think, -[3767.92 --> 3769.52] this is God's will -[3769.52 --> 3770.12] for me -[3770.12 --> 3772.34] because of Jesus. -[3772.60 --> 3772.88] Meaning, -[3773.14 --> 3774.48] God has shown me Jesus -[3774.48 --> 3775.68] and I need to live -[3775.68 --> 3776.16] like Him. -[3776.50 --> 3777.70] Jesus is the example -[3777.70 --> 3778.86] and I have to follow -[3778.86 --> 3780.18] in order to be -[3780.18 --> 3781.18] in God's will. -[3781.18 --> 3782.36] And honestly, -[3782.52 --> 3783.06] from a pure, -[3783.32 --> 3784.48] sort of simple word -[3784.48 --> 3785.06] perspective, -[3785.36 --> 3786.36] that's not wrong. -[3786.62 --> 3787.56] But so often, -[3787.66 --> 3788.60] for so many of us, -[3788.68 --> 3790.28] behind that perspective -[3790.28 --> 3791.66] is an assumption. -[3792.42 --> 3793.54] An assumption -[3793.54 --> 3794.46] that namely, -[3795.02 --> 3796.90] we are the primary actor. -[3797.62 --> 3799.30] That we are the agent. -[3800.54 --> 3801.38] That we think, -[3801.58 --> 3802.30] I have to follow -[3802.30 --> 3803.18] Jesus' example -[3803.18 --> 3804.70] in order to get in -[3804.70 --> 3805.44] God's will. -[3806.96 --> 3807.18] Right? -[3807.58 --> 3808.18] We think -[3808.80 --> 3810.58] that it is something -[3810.58 --> 3811.96] that we do. -[3812.80 --> 3813.78] That it is primarily -[3813.78 --> 3815.78] our action. -[3816.68 --> 3818.12] But what the Bible means, -[3818.26 --> 3818.58] however, -[3818.86 --> 3820.14] is so much more than that. -[3820.20 --> 3820.38] In fact, -[3820.42 --> 3821.62] it's so much deeper than that. -[3822.00 --> 3823.36] It goes beyond that. -[3824.00 --> 3824.44] This is, -[3824.66 --> 3825.04] first of all, -[3825.10 --> 3826.86] about who you are. -[3828.26 --> 3828.68] Right? -[3828.72 --> 3829.64] And who you are -[3829.64 --> 3830.14] isn't, -[3830.26 --> 3830.74] first of all, -[3830.78 --> 3831.68] about what you do. -[3832.28 --> 3833.88] It's about who you belong to. -[3834.80 --> 3836.06] Who you are part of. -[3836.10 --> 3837.32] Who you are connected to. -[3837.32 --> 3839.14] Who you are at one with. -[3840.54 --> 3840.86] You, -[3841.24 --> 3842.64] in Christ Jesus, -[3843.02 --> 3844.26] is one sort of -[3844.26 --> 3846.40] comprehensive identifier. -[3847.66 --> 3848.66] In Christ, -[3848.86 --> 3849.94] is about belonging. -[3851.10 --> 3851.22] Right? -[3851.26 --> 3852.46] You can't hard work -[3852.46 --> 3853.34] your way in -[3853.34 --> 3854.88] to relationship to Jesus. -[3855.96 --> 3857.04] It's not enough -[3857.04 --> 3857.60] for Jesus -[3857.60 --> 3858.94] to be your example. -[3859.30 --> 3860.94] You must be in Him. -[3861.02 --> 3862.08] Become part of Him. -[3862.08 --> 3864.60] I'm going to show you -[3864.60 --> 3866.38] a couple other Bible texts -[3866.38 --> 3867.02] really quickly -[3867.02 --> 3868.78] that make this same point. -[3869.44 --> 3870.44] I'll run through them quickly, -[3870.56 --> 3871.48] but they will be on the screen -[3871.48 --> 3871.96] behind me -[3871.96 --> 3873.14] so you can note them. -[3874.54 --> 3875.26] The Apostle Paul -[3875.26 --> 3876.54] writes in Romans 6, -[3876.84 --> 3877.72] In the same way, -[3877.88 --> 3878.80] count yourselves -[3878.80 --> 3879.78] dead to sin, -[3879.94 --> 3881.32] but alive to God -[3881.32 --> 3883.84] in Christ Jesus. -[3885.36 --> 3885.84] Right? -[3885.92 --> 3887.16] 1 Corinthians 1, 3, -[3887.26 --> 3888.38] It is because of God -[3888.38 --> 3889.62] that you are in -[3889.62 --> 3891.48] Christ Jesus. -[3892.70 --> 3894.00] Galatians 3, 26, -[3894.10 --> 3895.02] So in Christ -[3895.02 --> 3896.82] you are all children of God -[3896.82 --> 3898.10] through faith. -[3899.08 --> 3899.48] And in fact, -[3899.56 --> 3900.80] this is a major theme -[3900.80 --> 3901.78] of the letter -[3901.78 --> 3902.70] to the Ephesians. -[3902.94 --> 3903.36] I encourage you -[3903.36 --> 3903.86] this afternoon, -[3904.00 --> 3904.42] read it. -[3905.02 --> 3905.72] Ephesians 2, -[3906.20 --> 3907.30] God raised us up -[3907.30 --> 3907.88] with Christ -[3907.88 --> 3909.08] and seated us with Him -[3909.08 --> 3910.34] in the heavenly realms -[3910.34 --> 3912.28] in Christ Jesus. -[3913.14 --> 3913.82] But now, -[3913.98 --> 3914.80] in Christ Jesus, -[3914.98 --> 3916.52] you who were once far away -[3916.52 --> 3917.62] have been brought near. -[3918.66 --> 3919.90] Or to put it another way, -[3919.98 --> 3920.52] as Paul does -[3920.52 --> 3921.64] in Galatians 2, 20, -[3921.64 --> 3923.38] I have been crucified -[3923.38 --> 3924.30] with Christ -[3924.30 --> 3926.10] and I no longer live, -[3926.22 --> 3927.72] but Christ lives in me. -[3928.56 --> 3929.80] The life I now live -[3929.80 --> 3930.46] in the body, -[3930.56 --> 3931.54] I live by faith -[3931.54 --> 3932.54] in the Son of God -[3932.54 --> 3933.60] who loved me -[3933.60 --> 3935.42] and gave Himself up for me. -[3936.84 --> 3936.98] Right? -[3937.06 --> 3938.04] This life -[3938.04 --> 3939.52] that we are called to live -[3939.52 --> 3941.18] is the life of Jesus -[3941.18 --> 3942.80] working in you -[3942.80 --> 3943.70] and through you. -[3944.56 --> 3945.98] And Jesus only works -[3945.98 --> 3947.32] in you and through you -[3947.32 --> 3948.64] when He lives in you. -[3948.64 --> 3950.10] and when you live in Him. -[3950.88 --> 3952.14] And He lives in you -[3952.14 --> 3952.94] by grace -[3952.94 --> 3953.84] through faith. -[3953.90 --> 3954.40] What did we read? -[3954.46 --> 3955.32] The life I live, -[3955.40 --> 3956.44] I live by faith. -[3957.10 --> 3958.14] So in Christ, -[3958.26 --> 3960.02] you are all children of God -[3960.02 --> 3961.52] through faith. -[3962.60 --> 3964.14] Faith that the Son of God -[3964.14 --> 3964.98] loved me -[3964.98 --> 3965.96] and gave Himself -[3965.96 --> 3967.04] up for me. -[3968.22 --> 3968.94] And if you hear -[3968.94 --> 3969.84] one thing this morning, -[3969.92 --> 3970.32] maybe this, -[3970.52 --> 3971.52] don't get it twisted, -[3971.90 --> 3972.10] right? -[3972.34 --> 3974.00] Faith precedes works -[3974.00 --> 3975.96] because Christ in you -[3975.96 --> 3977.14] is necessary -[3977.14 --> 3978.64] for the kinds of works -[3978.64 --> 3980.04] He calls us to. -[3980.94 --> 3981.94] Apart from Christ -[3981.94 --> 3982.94] and the Holy Spirit, -[3983.28 --> 3984.38] apart from the operation -[3984.38 --> 3985.04] of this faith, -[3985.20 --> 3986.56] apart from being in Him, -[3986.82 --> 3987.96] this kind of life -[3987.96 --> 3988.72] is impossible. -[3990.66 --> 3991.74] And this is the foundational -[3991.74 --> 3993.10] philosophy of ministry -[3993.10 --> 3995.10] for Adult and Teen Challenge. -[3996.86 --> 3997.04] Right? -[3997.12 --> 3999.60] This is the only way -[3999.60 --> 4000.90] possible to live -[4000.90 --> 4001.60] the kind of life -[4001.60 --> 4002.80] that God is calling us -[4002.80 --> 4003.68] to live. -[4004.72 --> 4005.74] And if you try to do it -[4005.74 --> 4006.16] without Him, -[4006.82 --> 4007.90] you will burn out. -[4009.30 --> 4010.44] You will fall short. -[4011.20 --> 4012.56] You will prove inadequate -[4012.56 --> 4014.48] over and over and over. -[4015.34 --> 4016.62] And as I stand in front of you -[4016.62 --> 4017.12] this morning, -[4017.90 --> 4018.30] please, -[4019.30 --> 4021.82] as I muster my pastoral heart, -[4022.02 --> 4023.94] please hear this. -[4025.26 --> 4026.66] Because some of you -[4026.66 --> 4028.38] have been playing -[4028.38 --> 4029.30] at Christianity -[4029.30 --> 4030.96] without being converted -[4030.96 --> 4031.48] to Christ. -[4032.80 --> 4035.34] without being in Him. -[4036.88 --> 4037.48] And so, -[4037.82 --> 4038.94] you beat yourself up -[4038.94 --> 4040.80] and you burden yourself -[4040.80 --> 4042.42] with an impossible law -[4042.42 --> 4043.40] because your heart -[4043.40 --> 4044.50] is still stone. -[4048.00 --> 4048.66] Some of you -[4048.66 --> 4049.24] don't even know -[4049.24 --> 4050.32] any different. -[4052.54 --> 4053.90] And there's some of us -[4053.90 --> 4054.52] here -[4054.52 --> 4056.38] who expect people -[4056.38 --> 4057.46] to be living -[4057.46 --> 4058.72] your understanding -[4058.72 --> 4059.78] of the Christian way -[4059.78 --> 4061.32] before you allow -[4061.32 --> 4061.94] that they even -[4061.94 --> 4062.78] become Christian. -[4064.16 --> 4064.54] Right? -[4064.58 --> 4065.22] To put it another way, -[4065.30 --> 4065.72] some of you -[4065.72 --> 4066.92] require the fruit -[4066.92 --> 4067.72] of faith -[4067.72 --> 4068.50] but never look -[4068.50 --> 4069.44] for the seed of faith. -[4070.84 --> 4071.96] The seed of faith -[4071.96 --> 4072.56] is all you need. -[4072.64 --> 4073.44] That's where it starts. -[4073.78 --> 4074.44] I believe -[4074.44 --> 4075.28] Jesus is Lord -[4075.28 --> 4075.76] and that God -[4075.76 --> 4076.18] raised Him -[4076.18 --> 4076.72] from the dead. -[4076.72 --> 4079.18] If you say that -[4079.18 --> 4080.18] and believe it, -[4080.38 --> 4081.82] that is you -[4081.82 --> 4083.08] in Christ. -[4083.08 --> 4087.18] and still some of us -[4087.18 --> 4088.70] here this morning -[4088.70 --> 4090.50] think the way in -[4090.50 --> 4091.68] is by grace -[4091.68 --> 4092.34] through faith -[4092.34 --> 4093.24] and you have that -[4093.24 --> 4094.44] but somehow, -[4095.14 --> 4095.34] right, -[4095.44 --> 4096.16] over time -[4096.16 --> 4097.18] you've come to believe -[4097.18 --> 4097.76] that the way -[4097.76 --> 4098.92] you persevere, -[4099.42 --> 4100.32] the way you make it -[4100.32 --> 4100.88] to the end -[4100.88 --> 4102.16] is by your sheer -[4102.16 --> 4103.26] determination and grit. -[4104.38 --> 4104.78] So yeah, -[4104.86 --> 4105.12] you know what, -[4105.18 --> 4105.82] God did that work -[4105.82 --> 4106.22] at the beginning -[4106.22 --> 4107.58] but now it's my turn -[4107.58 --> 4108.24] to do the work. -[4108.68 --> 4110.20] I'll take control back. -[4110.36 --> 4110.78] Thank you. -[4112.48 --> 4113.54] But the Bible teaches -[4113.54 --> 4114.90] over and over -[4114.90 --> 4115.60] and over again -[4115.60 --> 4117.34] and with such clarity -[4117.34 --> 4118.24] and beauty -[4118.24 --> 4119.58] that all of it, -[4119.66 --> 4120.50] all of this -[4120.50 --> 4121.66] requires you -[4121.66 --> 4123.10] being in Christ, -[4123.26 --> 4124.50] believing in Christ -[4124.50 --> 4125.88] both as the object -[4125.88 --> 4126.84] of your belief -[4126.84 --> 4128.02] and the source -[4128.02 --> 4129.18] of your belief. -[4129.88 --> 4130.88] Both as the goal -[4130.88 --> 4132.04] towards which we press -[4132.04 --> 4133.08] and as the one -[4133.08 --> 4133.98] who moves us -[4133.98 --> 4134.84] in that direction. -[4134.84 --> 4138.78] Let me illustrate it -[4138.78 --> 4139.58] this way. -[4142.16 --> 4143.74] You believe -[4143.74 --> 4145.50] in the ocean -[4145.50 --> 4146.76] differently -[4146.76 --> 4148.44] when you're standing -[4148.44 --> 4149.68] on the beach -[4149.68 --> 4151.72] looking abstractly -[4151.72 --> 4152.32] over it. -[4153.46 --> 4153.88] Right? -[4153.94 --> 4154.54] There's one way -[4154.54 --> 4155.10] of believing -[4155.10 --> 4155.92] and experiencing -[4155.92 --> 4156.52] the ocean. -[4156.90 --> 4157.66] But you believe -[4157.66 --> 4158.28] differently -[4158.28 --> 4159.54] about the ocean -[4159.54 --> 4160.34] when you're sitting -[4160.34 --> 4160.84] on the edge -[4160.84 --> 4161.34] of a boat -[4161.34 --> 4162.32] and you're dipping -[4162.32 --> 4163.20] your feet in the water. -[4164.58 --> 4164.82] Right? -[4165.04 --> 4165.62] That's a different -[4165.62 --> 4166.32] experience -[4166.32 --> 4167.08] and belief -[4167.08 --> 4167.68] of the ocean. -[4168.26 --> 4168.58] Likewise, -[4168.80 --> 4169.34] you believe -[4169.34 --> 4170.54] yet again differently -[4170.54 --> 4171.68] when you're swimming -[4171.68 --> 4172.74] through the ocean -[4172.74 --> 4173.38] on the surface -[4173.38 --> 4174.24] and every once in a while -[4174.24 --> 4174.92] you look down -[4174.92 --> 4176.08] and see what it is -[4176.08 --> 4176.58] that you see. -[4177.72 --> 4179.14] And you believe -[4179.14 --> 4179.80] differently -[4179.80 --> 4180.64] when you are -[4180.64 --> 4181.44] 200 meters -[4181.44 --> 4182.38] below the surface -[4182.38 --> 4183.70] and all you feel -[4183.70 --> 4184.44] is the weight -[4184.44 --> 4185.68] of glory -[4185.68 --> 4186.98] surrounding you, -[4187.14 --> 4188.14] pressing in on you -[4188.14 --> 4189.32] from every direction. -[4191.22 --> 4192.72] Being in Christ -[4192.72 --> 4195.12] moves you -[4195.12 --> 4196.22] deeper. -[4197.50 --> 4198.92] Being in Christ -[4198.92 --> 4200.28] moves you -[4200.28 --> 4200.98] deeper. -[4201.18 --> 4201.66] And so are you -[4201.66 --> 4202.64] standing on the beach? -[4203.74 --> 4204.72] Are you dipping -[4204.72 --> 4205.40] your toes -[4205.40 --> 4206.58] into the water? -[4206.70 --> 4207.24] Are you swimming -[4207.24 --> 4208.18] along the surface -[4208.18 --> 4209.06] or will you -[4209.06 --> 4210.46] go deeper? -[4211.50 --> 4212.68] Life in Christ -[4212.68 --> 4213.20] Jesus -[4213.20 --> 4214.36] is life -[4214.36 --> 4214.96] drenched -[4214.96 --> 4215.70] deep -[4215.70 --> 4217.30] in the Holy Spirit. -[4218.86 --> 4218.98] Right? -[4219.00 --> 4219.40] And as I said, -[4219.44 --> 4220.10] that's the banner -[4220.10 --> 4221.18] over this text -[4221.18 --> 4221.76] and I'm getting -[4221.76 --> 4222.42] that language -[4222.42 --> 4224.42] from verse 19 -[4224.42 --> 4225.42] where we read -[4225.42 --> 4226.30] do not quench -[4226.30 --> 4227.24] the Spirit. -[4227.98 --> 4229.04] And instead of quench, -[4229.54 --> 4229.72] right, -[4229.96 --> 4231.04] this is what a -[4231.04 --> 4232.12] Spirit-drenched -[4232.12 --> 4233.88] life looks like. -[4234.66 --> 4235.42] Or to put it -[4235.42 --> 4235.98] another way, -[4236.30 --> 4237.14] this is what it looks -[4237.14 --> 4238.38] like to be on fire -[4238.38 --> 4239.16] for the Lord -[4239.16 --> 4239.84] by the Spirit. -[4240.02 --> 4240.72] And yes, -[4240.78 --> 4241.50] I get that I'm mixing -[4241.50 --> 4242.64] opposite metaphors now. -[4244.32 --> 4245.30] This is what -[4245.30 --> 4246.24] life filled -[4246.24 --> 4247.20] with the Spirit -[4247.20 --> 4248.08] because you are -[4248.08 --> 4248.64] in Christ -[4248.64 --> 4249.34] looks like. -[4250.34 --> 4250.80] Right? -[4250.84 --> 4251.62] And in that life -[4251.62 --> 4252.16] there are things -[4252.16 --> 4252.88] that we are called -[4252.88 --> 4253.46] to do -[4253.46 --> 4254.20] and things -[4254.20 --> 4254.94] that we are called -[4254.94 --> 4256.00] not to do. -[4256.26 --> 4257.20] There are do's -[4257.20 --> 4258.46] and there are don'ts. -[4258.50 --> 4258.78] And again, -[4258.88 --> 4259.76] let's be abundantly -[4259.76 --> 4260.96] clear about this, -[4261.04 --> 4261.14] right? -[4261.18 --> 4262.20] Because the do's -[4262.20 --> 4263.50] are for your good -[4263.50 --> 4264.74] and for God's glory -[4264.74 --> 4266.28] and the don'ts -[4266.28 --> 4267.48] are for your good -[4267.48 --> 4268.68] and for God's glory. -[4269.76 --> 4269.84] Right? -[4269.96 --> 4270.72] Enjoying God, -[4270.88 --> 4271.50] worshiping Him, -[4271.62 --> 4272.42] living in the comfort -[4272.42 --> 4273.00] of the gospel, -[4273.40 --> 4274.84] living out our gratitude -[4274.84 --> 4276.56] means yes and amen -[4276.56 --> 4277.98] and it means -[4277.98 --> 4278.42] no, -[4278.62 --> 4279.42] not for me. -[4280.70 --> 4281.86] Both of those -[4281.86 --> 4283.18] are for your good, -[4283.48 --> 4284.52] for your comfort, -[4284.96 --> 4286.10] and are for your joy. -[4287.32 --> 4288.70] This is two sides -[4288.70 --> 4289.68] of one life -[4289.68 --> 4291.06] lived in Christ, -[4291.22 --> 4291.68] drenched -[4291.68 --> 4293.50] in the Holy Spirit. -[4294.50 --> 4295.58] And there's one more thing -[4295.58 --> 4296.72] I want us to see -[4296.72 --> 4297.60] before we quickly -[4297.60 --> 4298.82] walk through -[4298.82 --> 4300.40] this life lived in Christ. -[4300.40 --> 4302.26] remember -[4302.26 --> 4304.22] why Paul -[4304.22 --> 4305.52] is writing this letter. -[4306.44 --> 4306.66] Right? -[4306.66 --> 4307.62] If you haven't been with us, -[4307.68 --> 4308.86] let me recap you, -[4308.92 --> 4309.04] right? -[4309.24 --> 4310.72] Paul is writing this letter -[4310.72 --> 4311.66] to encourage -[4311.66 --> 4313.88] the Thessalonian believers, -[4314.08 --> 4315.18] this young church -[4315.18 --> 4317.12] who's been existing -[4317.12 --> 4318.30] only for just -[4318.30 --> 4319.02] a couple months -[4319.02 --> 4319.54] by the time -[4319.54 --> 4320.50] he writes this letter -[4320.50 --> 4322.08] and in those -[4322.08 --> 4322.82] couple months -[4322.82 --> 4323.80] they have had to face -[4323.80 --> 4324.94] incredible hardship, -[4325.42 --> 4326.32] incredible persecution, -[4326.78 --> 4328.20] and even death -[4328.20 --> 4329.26] of their fellow -[4329.26 --> 4330.28] brothers and sisters -[4330.28 --> 4330.86] in Christ. -[4331.30 --> 4332.66] Life in Jesus Christ -[4332.66 --> 4334.02] has not been easy -[4334.02 --> 4334.62] for them. -[4334.84 --> 4335.94] It's not been safe -[4335.94 --> 4336.62] for them. -[4336.84 --> 4338.00] It's been costing them -[4338.00 --> 4338.64] relationships. -[4339.06 --> 4340.46] It's been costing them money. -[4340.74 --> 4341.98] Remember at the very beginning -[4341.98 --> 4343.16] Jason, -[4343.40 --> 4344.12] one of the leaders -[4344.12 --> 4344.70] in the church -[4344.70 --> 4345.78] in Thessalonica, -[4346.02 --> 4347.34] had to pay a fine -[4347.34 --> 4348.52] to the city officials -[4348.52 --> 4349.88] before he could be released -[4349.88 --> 4350.90] after being arrested. -[4352.38 --> 4352.56] Right? -[4352.62 --> 4353.30] These Christians -[4353.30 --> 4354.50] are doing things -[4354.50 --> 4355.70] that their non-Christian -[4355.70 --> 4356.32] neighbors -[4356.32 --> 4357.92] think are super weird. -[4358.98 --> 4359.46] Some of them -[4359.46 --> 4360.50] are even destructive -[4360.50 --> 4361.34] practices. -[4361.92 --> 4362.02] Right? -[4362.08 --> 4363.28] Destructive to the peace -[4363.28 --> 4364.52] and the social order -[4364.52 --> 4365.50] of Thessalonica. -[4365.60 --> 4366.56] It doesn't make sense -[4366.56 --> 4367.00] to them. -[4368.70 --> 4369.62] And when things -[4369.62 --> 4370.14] are hard, -[4370.78 --> 4371.82] God knows -[4371.82 --> 4373.08] we need extra reminders. -[4373.88 --> 4375.26] We need more encouragement -[4375.26 --> 4376.92] when things get tough. -[4377.26 --> 4379.28] That's what this letter is. -[4379.44 --> 4380.52] How do we live -[4380.52 --> 4381.36] in Christ -[4381.36 --> 4382.36] when things are hard? -[4382.36 --> 4384.52] How do we live -[4384.52 --> 4385.76] drenched in the Spirit -[4385.76 --> 4387.96] when our very circumstances -[4387.96 --> 4389.60] could discourage -[4389.60 --> 4390.16] our faith? -[4391.46 --> 4393.16] It's precisely then -[4393.16 --> 4394.02] that we read -[4394.02 --> 4395.74] rejoice always. -[4397.24 --> 4398.52] And hear this. -[4401.02 --> 4403.68] If you -[4403.68 --> 4406.14] are going to live -[4406.14 --> 4407.18] in Christ -[4407.18 --> 4408.98] doing God's will -[4408.98 --> 4410.26] when it's hard, -[4410.26 --> 4412.24] you need to have -[4412.24 --> 4412.70] a reason -[4412.70 --> 4413.40] to rejoice -[4413.40 --> 4415.00] when your circumstances -[4415.00 --> 4416.04] don't give you one. -[4418.00 --> 4418.56] The way -[4418.56 --> 4419.18] to live -[4419.18 --> 4419.96] in Christ -[4419.96 --> 4420.92] doing God's will -[4420.92 --> 4421.58] when it's hard -[4421.58 --> 4422.20] is to have -[4422.20 --> 4422.68] a reason -[4422.68 --> 4423.40] to rejoice -[4423.40 --> 4424.70] when your immediate -[4424.70 --> 4425.46] circumstances -[4425.46 --> 4426.98] do not give you one. -[4428.72 --> 4429.42] For that -[4429.42 --> 4430.00] as an example -[4430.00 --> 4430.48] of this -[4430.48 --> 4431.72] from the Bible -[4431.72 --> 4432.46] I think of the story -[4432.46 --> 4432.90] of Job. -[4433.16 --> 4434.02] Many of you are familiar -[4434.02 --> 4435.00] with Job's story. -[4435.72 --> 4435.84] Right? -[4435.88 --> 4436.44] He lost -[4436.44 --> 4437.42] everything. -[4437.42 --> 4439.30] But Job said -[4439.30 --> 4440.90] shall we accept -[4440.90 --> 4441.80] good from God -[4441.80 --> 4442.80] and not trouble? -[4444.10 --> 4445.14] He also says -[4445.14 --> 4446.14] the Lord gave -[4446.14 --> 4446.66] and the Lord -[4446.66 --> 4447.52] has taken away -[4447.52 --> 4448.70] may the name -[4448.70 --> 4449.30] of the Lord -[4449.30 --> 4449.98] be praised. -[4451.44 --> 4451.58] Right? -[4451.62 --> 4452.14] May the name -[4452.14 --> 4452.60] of the Lord -[4452.60 --> 4453.24] be praised -[4453.24 --> 4453.86] in trouble -[4453.86 --> 4454.86] and when he -[4454.86 --> 4455.44] takes away. -[4456.98 --> 4457.10] Right? -[4457.12 --> 4457.50] And for this -[4457.50 --> 4458.42] I think of Christians -[4458.42 --> 4459.26] who sing -[4459.26 --> 4460.56] and more often -[4460.56 --> 4461.04] than not -[4461.04 --> 4461.66] these days -[4461.66 --> 4462.50] it seems to be -[4462.50 --> 4463.28] at funerals -[4463.28 --> 4464.00] but we sing -[4464.00 --> 4465.00] it is well -[4465.00 --> 4466.18] with my soul. -[4466.18 --> 4467.48] Right? -[4467.56 --> 4468.16] Though Satan -[4468.16 --> 4468.74] should buffet -[4468.74 --> 4469.68] though trials -[4469.68 --> 4470.30] should come -[4470.30 --> 4472.38] Christ has regarded -[4472.38 --> 4473.78] my helpless estate -[4473.78 --> 4475.06] and we sing -[4475.06 --> 4475.78] it is well -[4475.78 --> 4477.26] with my soul. -[4477.80 --> 4478.50] It is well -[4478.50 --> 4479.68] it is well -[4479.68 --> 4480.76] with my soul. -[4481.50 --> 4482.16] In this church -[4482.16 --> 4482.78] another song -[4482.78 --> 4483.80] that we sing -[4483.80 --> 4484.68] we sing -[4484.68 --> 4485.76] when I fear -[4485.76 --> 4487.04] my faith will fail -[4487.04 --> 4488.90] when the tempter -[4488.90 --> 4489.74] would prevail -[4489.74 --> 4491.14] I could never -[4491.14 --> 4492.14] keep my hold -[4492.14 --> 4493.82] through life's -[4493.82 --> 4495.32] fearful paths -[4495.32 --> 4497.66] he will hold -[4497.66 --> 4498.26] me fast. -[4500.02 --> 4500.54] Right? -[4500.60 --> 4501.40] We can rejoice -[4501.40 --> 4502.34] in the hardship -[4502.34 --> 4503.46] we can worship -[4503.46 --> 4504.32] in the valley -[4504.32 --> 4504.94] of the shadow -[4504.94 --> 4506.04] we can sing -[4506.04 --> 4506.86] in the face -[4506.86 --> 4507.40] of death -[4507.40 --> 4508.24] and every other -[4508.24 --> 4508.78] circumstance -[4508.78 --> 4510.00] because there is -[4510.00 --> 4511.10] a yet greater -[4511.10 --> 4511.72] circumstance -[4511.72 --> 4512.78] that we are -[4512.78 --> 4513.38] aware of. -[4513.46 --> 4513.58] Amen? -[4514.58 --> 4514.78] Right? -[4514.84 --> 4515.30] There is a yet -[4515.30 --> 4516.34] greater God -[4516.34 --> 4517.26] whom we know -[4517.26 --> 4518.06] who has invited -[4518.06 --> 4518.88] us into himself -[4518.88 --> 4519.84] and who has made -[4519.84 --> 4520.70] us one with him -[4520.70 --> 4521.52] in Christ Jesus. -[4521.52 --> 4523.24] And again -[4523.24 --> 4524.00] this is Job's -[4524.00 --> 4524.50] hope. -[4524.64 --> 4525.10] Job put it -[4525.10 --> 4525.58] this way -[4525.58 --> 4526.32] Job says -[4526.32 --> 4527.00] I know -[4527.00 --> 4527.74] that my -[4527.74 --> 4528.94] redeemer lives -[4528.94 --> 4529.64] and that in the -[4529.64 --> 4530.32] end he will -[4530.32 --> 4531.02] stand on the -[4531.02 --> 4531.28] earth -[4531.28 --> 4532.26] and after my -[4532.26 --> 4532.94] skin has been -[4532.94 --> 4533.46] destroyed -[4533.46 --> 4534.48] yet in my -[4534.48 --> 4535.18] flesh I -[4535.18 --> 4535.88] will see -[4535.88 --> 4536.48] God -[4536.48 --> 4537.40] I myself -[4537.40 --> 4538.14] will see him -[4538.14 --> 4538.78] with my own -[4538.78 --> 4539.08] eyes -[4539.08 --> 4540.02] I and not -[4540.02 --> 4540.44] another -[4540.44 --> 4541.30] how my -[4541.30 --> 4541.80] heart -[4541.80 --> 4542.68] yearns -[4542.68 --> 4543.74] within me. -[4545.26 --> 4546.34] As Christians -[4546.34 --> 4547.54] we have two -[4547.54 --> 4547.98] reasons -[4547.98 --> 4549.08] to rejoice -[4549.08 --> 4549.54] that are -[4549.54 --> 4550.34] greater than -[4550.34 --> 4551.18] any circumstance -[4551.18 --> 4552.08] we might face -[4552.08 --> 4552.58] right now -[4552.58 --> 4553.30] and those two -[4553.30 --> 4553.86] reasons they -[4553.86 --> 4554.34] really come -[4554.34 --> 4555.20] together as -[4555.20 --> 4555.90] one unified -[4555.90 --> 4556.76] reason. -[4556.90 --> 4557.24] We have the -[4557.24 --> 4558.00] resurrection of -[4558.00 --> 4558.92] Jesus yes and -[4558.92 --> 4560.00] amen and we -[4560.00 --> 4561.04] have his coming -[4561.04 --> 4562.68] again to restore -[4562.68 --> 4564.08] all things. -[4565.40 --> 4566.56] And in fact if -[4566.56 --> 4567.02] you've been with -[4567.02 --> 4567.80] us in this series -[4567.80 --> 4568.44] this has been -[4568.44 --> 4569.24] chapters 4 and -[4569.24 --> 4570.22] 5 this has been -[4570.22 --> 4571.14] the point building -[4571.14 --> 4571.88] to this idea -[4571.88 --> 4572.96] because of the -[4572.96 --> 4574.16] coming return of -[4574.16 --> 4575.10] Jesus because of -[4575.10 --> 4576.16] his resurrection -[4576.16 --> 4578.00] we can experience -[4578.00 --> 4579.10] the defeat of -[4579.10 --> 4580.32] sin and death -[4580.32 --> 4581.70] in him. -[4582.48 --> 4583.08] And because of -[4583.08 --> 4583.80] that we can -[4583.80 --> 4585.62] rejoice in -[4585.62 --> 4587.54] every circumstance -[4587.54 --> 4588.98] we can rejoice -[4588.98 --> 4590.20] always. -[4591.20 --> 4592.40] To be clear -[4592.40 --> 4593.30] again -[4593.30 --> 4594.48] rejoice -[4594.48 --> 4595.52] always -[4595.52 --> 4596.36] doesn't -[4596.36 --> 4597.06] always -[4597.06 --> 4598.06] or doesn't -[4598.06 --> 4598.86] mean always -[4598.86 --> 4600.58] feeling joyful -[4600.58 --> 4601.14] doesn't mean -[4601.14 --> 4602.18] always feeling -[4602.18 --> 4602.88] happy and -[4602.88 --> 4603.48] clappy and -[4603.48 --> 4604.06] putting a good -[4604.06 --> 4604.86] smile on -[4604.86 --> 4605.48] when on the -[4605.48 --> 4606.04] insides -[4606.04 --> 4606.74] we're just -[4606.74 --> 4607.54] chaotic and -[4607.54 --> 4608.06] a mess. -[4608.06 --> 4610.54] it means -[4610.54 --> 4611.72] submitting your -[4611.72 --> 4612.84] feelings to -[4612.84 --> 4613.44] the truth of -[4613.44 --> 4613.92] who Christ -[4613.92 --> 4614.26] is. -[4614.90 --> 4615.58] It means -[4615.58 --> 4616.42] redefining your -[4616.42 --> 4617.10] realities in -[4617.10 --> 4617.40] light of the -[4617.40 --> 4617.78] truth of the -[4617.78 --> 4618.10] gospel. -[4618.26 --> 4618.74] Thank you for -[4618.74 --> 4619.02] that. -[4621.10 --> 4621.96] It means -[4621.96 --> 4623.14] trusting Christ -[4623.14 --> 4624.14] and not your -[4624.14 --> 4624.58] feelings. -[4625.96 --> 4627.10] Rejoice always -[4627.10 --> 4628.34] is to sing -[4628.34 --> 4629.18] it is well -[4629.18 --> 4630.14] with my soul. -[4631.40 --> 4631.88] And there are -[4631.88 --> 4633.34] times when we -[4633.34 --> 4633.92] sing that -[4633.92 --> 4635.02] aspirationally. -[4635.02 --> 4636.62] we sing that -[4636.62 --> 4637.40] longing to -[4637.40 --> 4638.02] believe it's -[4638.02 --> 4638.34] true. -[4639.70 --> 4640.44] And there are -[4640.44 --> 4641.74] times when we -[4641.74 --> 4642.46] will sing that -[4642.46 --> 4643.16] as the most -[4643.16 --> 4643.84] decisive -[4643.84 --> 4645.28] declaration of -[4645.28 --> 4645.96] our faith in -[4645.96 --> 4646.52] the midst of -[4646.52 --> 4647.36] whatever dark -[4647.36 --> 4647.84] night of the -[4647.84 --> 4648.78] soul you are -[4648.78 --> 4649.16] facing. -[4650.00 --> 4650.78] And then there -[4650.78 --> 4651.98] are times where -[4651.98 --> 4652.50] you won't be able -[4652.50 --> 4652.96] to say those -[4652.96 --> 4653.24] words. -[4654.58 --> 4655.60] And so we rely -[4655.60 --> 4656.06] on the brothers -[4656.06 --> 4656.84] and sisters around -[4656.84 --> 4658.30] us to sing them -[4658.30 --> 4659.34] for us and -[4659.34 --> 4660.04] over us. -[4660.64 --> 4661.70] To rejoice -[4661.70 --> 4663.52] always on our -[4663.52 --> 4663.94] behalf. -[4663.94 --> 4665.92] wherever you -[4665.92 --> 4666.66] are on the -[4666.66 --> 4667.34] spectrum of -[4667.34 --> 4668.40] confidence this -[4668.40 --> 4669.22] is part of -[4669.22 --> 4669.78] what it means -[4669.78 --> 4671.18] to live in -[4671.18 --> 4672.10] Christ. -[4673.22 --> 4674.26] And it means -[4674.26 --> 4675.18] right to pray -[4675.18 --> 4676.20] continually and -[4676.20 --> 4677.64] give thanks in -[4677.64 --> 4678.74] all circumstances. -[4679.52 --> 4680.96] Both forms of -[4680.96 --> 4681.24] prayer. -[4681.64 --> 4682.34] You are invited -[4682.34 --> 4683.64] to pray without -[4683.64 --> 4685.14] ceasing to speak -[4685.14 --> 4685.88] to your heavenly -[4685.88 --> 4687.00] father because you -[4687.00 --> 4687.92] are in the -[4687.92 --> 4688.32] son. -[4690.02 --> 4690.78] Right you don't -[4690.78 --> 4691.96] need systems or -[4691.96 --> 4693.16] mediators other -[4693.16 --> 4694.14] than Christ -[4694.14 --> 4695.08] himself. -[4695.26 --> 4695.88] It's God's -[4695.88 --> 4696.58] will that you -[4696.58 --> 4697.14] should come to -[4697.14 --> 4699.00] him in prayer -[4699.00 --> 4700.32] just as Jesus -[4700.32 --> 4701.28] did. -[4702.78 --> 4703.88] Sometimes our -[4703.88 --> 4704.86] prayer and -[4704.86 --> 4705.76] praying means -[4705.76 --> 4706.74] inviting God -[4706.74 --> 4707.30] into the -[4707.30 --> 4708.62] minutia of your -[4708.62 --> 4708.98] life. -[4709.20 --> 4710.34] Sometimes our -[4710.34 --> 4711.06] prayer is -[4711.06 --> 4712.04] pleading with -[4712.04 --> 4712.88] God and -[4712.88 --> 4713.92] sometimes our -[4713.92 --> 4714.42] prayer is -[4714.42 --> 4715.54] sitting still -[4715.54 --> 4716.70] and listening -[4716.70 --> 4718.08] for his voice. -[4719.16 --> 4720.48] Resting in the -[4720.48 --> 4721.14] one who said -[4721.14 --> 4721.72] come to me -[4721.72 --> 4722.30] all who are -[4722.30 --> 4722.76] weary and -[4722.76 --> 4723.28] heavy laden -[4723.28 --> 4723.76] and I will -[4723.76 --> 4724.34] give you -[4724.34 --> 4725.38] rest. -[4726.14 --> 4727.36] Sometimes our -[4727.36 --> 4728.20] praying means -[4728.20 --> 4729.10] opening up -[4729.10 --> 4730.26] these scriptures -[4730.26 --> 4731.10] and praying -[4731.10 --> 4732.20] these words -[4732.20 --> 4733.58] as our -[4733.58 --> 4734.10] words, -[4734.22 --> 4735.16] God's words -[4735.16 --> 4735.98] on your own -[4735.98 --> 4736.60] lips and out -[4736.60 --> 4737.16] of your own -[4737.16 --> 4737.56] heart. -[4738.08 --> 4739.18] Sometimes praying -[4739.18 --> 4740.56] means turning -[4740.56 --> 4741.74] your groanings -[4741.74 --> 4743.02] into gratitude. -[4745.56 --> 4746.36] Someone once -[4746.36 --> 4747.72] said you can't -[4747.72 --> 4749.04] be angry when -[4749.04 --> 4749.58] you're grateful. -[4751.90 --> 4752.26] Now again, -[4752.32 --> 4752.78] let me be really -[4752.78 --> 4753.84] clear, right? -[4753.92 --> 4754.44] Because I think -[4754.44 --> 4755.14] the preposition -[4755.14 --> 4756.44] matters here -[4756.44 --> 4756.98] too. -[4757.16 --> 4757.84] We are invited -[4757.84 --> 4758.80] to give thanks -[4758.80 --> 4760.32] in all -[4760.32 --> 4761.04] circumstances, -[4761.34 --> 4762.66] not for all -[4762.66 --> 4763.28] circumstances. -[4764.48 --> 4765.36] The reality of -[4765.36 --> 4765.98] sin in our -[4765.98 --> 4766.96] world grieves -[4766.96 --> 4767.92] God's heart -[4767.92 --> 4768.88] and that means -[4768.88 --> 4769.26] there are -[4769.26 --> 4769.98] circumstances -[4769.98 --> 4771.42] where we -[4771.42 --> 4772.20] should not -[4772.20 --> 4773.32] be but for -[4773.32 --> 4774.58] sin or sinning -[4774.58 --> 4775.44] or sinfulness -[4775.44 --> 4776.40] in the world -[4776.40 --> 4777.04] around us and -[4777.04 --> 4778.14] affecting our -[4778.14 --> 4779.28] local areas, -[4779.54 --> 4779.82] spheres, -[4780.04 --> 4780.52] and lives. -[4781.28 --> 4782.04] We don't need -[4782.04 --> 4782.90] to thank God -[4782.90 --> 4783.42] for this -[4783.42 --> 4784.68] situation but -[4784.68 --> 4785.84] we can thank -[4785.84 --> 4786.44] him for the -[4786.44 --> 4787.36] promise to -[4787.36 --> 4788.56] sustain us in -[4788.56 --> 4789.10] the midst of -[4789.10 --> 4789.30] it. -[4791.40 --> 4792.32] So just like -[4792.32 --> 4792.98] we have reason -[4792.98 --> 4794.54] to rejoice even -[4794.54 --> 4794.98] when our -[4794.98 --> 4795.96] circumstances don't -[4795.96 --> 4796.62] give us one, -[4796.86 --> 4797.78] we have reason -[4797.78 --> 4798.62] to be thankful -[4798.62 --> 4799.48] even when our -[4799.48 --> 4800.80] circumstances don't -[4800.80 --> 4801.92] give us one. -[4802.40 --> 4803.28] Again, we read -[4803.28 --> 4804.52] in Romans 8, -[4804.60 --> 4805.06] 28, -[4805.06 --> 4806.68] we know that -[4806.68 --> 4807.44] in all things -[4807.44 --> 4808.24] God works for -[4808.24 --> 4808.78] the good of -[4808.78 --> 4809.46] those who love -[4809.46 --> 4810.24] him, who have -[4810.24 --> 4810.76] been called -[4810.76 --> 4811.70] according to -[4811.70 --> 4812.36] his purpose. -[4813.36 --> 4814.14] And if all -[4814.14 --> 4815.00] things really -[4815.00 --> 4815.82] means all -[4815.82 --> 4816.64] things, and I -[4816.64 --> 4817.30] believe it does, -[4817.96 --> 4818.70] then we can -[4818.70 --> 4819.80] give thanks in -[4819.80 --> 4821.12] all things because -[4821.12 --> 4822.26] God is working -[4822.26 --> 4823.82] all things, even -[4823.82 --> 4824.74] that particular -[4824.74 --> 4825.78] awful thing, -[4826.10 --> 4826.96] for good. -[4827.94 --> 4829.76] Now, it may be -[4829.76 --> 4830.74] that that good -[4830.74 --> 4831.66] doesn't come to -[4831.66 --> 4832.62] us until the -[4832.62 --> 4833.32] world to come. -[4833.32 --> 4834.20] Remember, our -[4834.20 --> 4834.80] hope is in the -[4834.80 --> 4835.52] resurrection and -[4835.52 --> 4836.14] in the return of -[4836.14 --> 4836.74] Jesus Christ? -[4837.92 --> 4839.68] But even if it's -[4839.68 --> 4841.14] not good until the -[4841.14 --> 4842.18] return of Jesus -[4842.18 --> 4843.42] Christ, it is all -[4843.42 --> 4844.52] the greater for it. -[4845.58 --> 4846.62] And if you believe -[4846.62 --> 4848.32] that, you can -[4848.32 --> 4849.28] really genuinely -[4849.28 --> 4850.44] give thanks in -[4850.44 --> 4851.98] every circumstance. -[4854.02 --> 4855.20] And so we dig. -[4855.50 --> 4856.02] In the next -[4856.02 --> 4856.58] section, we're -[4856.58 --> 4857.42] given some -[4857.42 --> 4858.62] negative imperatives. -[4858.94 --> 4859.50] If the first -[4859.50 --> 4860.50] part are do's, -[4860.90 --> 4862.48] the second is -[4862.48 --> 4863.32] don'ts. -[4863.36 --> 4863.88] And we begin -[4863.88 --> 4864.62] where we started, -[4864.78 --> 4865.58] do not quench -[4865.58 --> 4866.70] the Spirit. -[4867.80 --> 4868.96] Now, this means -[4868.96 --> 4870.12] do not resist -[4870.12 --> 4871.18] the Spirit's -[4871.18 --> 4871.76] work. -[4872.58 --> 4873.48] On the day of -[4873.48 --> 4874.34] Pentecost, many -[4874.34 --> 4874.96] of you will know -[4874.96 --> 4876.02] this, the Holy -[4876.02 --> 4877.18] Spirit came down -[4877.18 --> 4878.14] on the disciples -[4878.14 --> 4880.40] in displays of -[4880.40 --> 4881.48] tongues of fire. -[4882.16 --> 4882.64] So the Holy -[4882.64 --> 4883.34] Spirit is like a -[4883.34 --> 4884.52] fire, and in this -[4884.52 --> 4885.50] text, we are told -[4885.50 --> 4886.88] not to extinguish -[4886.88 --> 4887.94] that fire. -[4887.94 --> 4887.98] fire. -[4889.76 --> 4890.66] One of the most -[4890.66 --> 4891.90] common ways that -[4891.90 --> 4892.70] the Holy Spirit -[4892.70 --> 4894.40] is at work among -[4894.40 --> 4896.04] us is also one of -[4896.04 --> 4896.68] the most ordinary -[4896.68 --> 4898.68] ways, and that's -[4898.68 --> 4899.24] in the conviction -[4899.24 --> 4899.74] of sin. -[4900.78 --> 4901.82] The Holy Spirit -[4901.82 --> 4903.08] is always at work -[4903.08 --> 4904.28] to produce a -[4904.28 --> 4905.26] conviction of sin -[4905.26 --> 4906.26] that leads to -[4906.26 --> 4906.76] repentance. -[4908.04 --> 4908.90] And if the Spirit -[4908.90 --> 4909.58] is at work -[4909.58 --> 4910.62] convicting you of -[4910.62 --> 4911.70] sin, the next -[4911.70 --> 4912.72] step isn't to -[4912.72 --> 4913.50] tamp it down, -[4913.64 --> 4914.60] isn't to extinguish -[4914.60 --> 4915.64] it, isn't to say, -[4915.72 --> 4916.38] ah, you know, it's -[4916.38 --> 4917.08] not actually that -[4917.08 --> 4917.34] bad. -[4918.04 --> 4919.02] It's to confess. -[4920.02 --> 4920.78] It's to repent. -[4921.58 --> 4922.42] It's to lay it -[4922.42 --> 4923.42] before the cross -[4923.42 --> 4924.06] of our Savior, -[4924.20 --> 4924.68] Jesus Christ, -[4924.72 --> 4925.48] because that's -[4925.48 --> 4926.24] precisely where -[4926.24 --> 4927.32] He died for -[4927.32 --> 4928.52] these sins. -[4933.40 --> 4934.40] It has been my -[4934.40 --> 4935.30] experience in the -[4935.30 --> 4936.08] last number of -[4936.08 --> 4938.28] months, the Holy -[4938.28 --> 4940.54] Spirit is doing -[4940.54 --> 4942.70] a work among us -[4942.70 --> 4944.70] in the area of -[4944.70 --> 4945.24] confession and -[4945.24 --> 4945.54] repentance. -[4946.38 --> 4947.96] that people have -[4947.96 --> 4948.62] been opening up -[4948.62 --> 4949.20] to one another -[4949.20 --> 4950.74] and confessing -[4950.74 --> 4951.64] and seeking help -[4951.64 --> 4952.66] and walking with -[4952.66 --> 4953.56] people in the -[4953.56 --> 4954.20] midst of struggle. -[4954.74 --> 4955.28] And I had a -[4955.28 --> 4956.02] gathering with a -[4956.02 --> 4956.74] group of pastors -[4956.74 --> 4957.52] from Langley -[4957.52 --> 4958.40] this week, -[4959.04 --> 4960.12] and I was -[4960.12 --> 4960.76] sharing that I -[4960.76 --> 4961.60] feel like the -[4961.60 --> 4962.24] Spirit is leading -[4962.24 --> 4962.72] in this, -[4963.08 --> 4964.20] and to a person -[4964.20 --> 4965.06] around the room, -[4965.30 --> 4965.92] every other -[4965.92 --> 4966.80] pastor confirmed -[4966.80 --> 4967.62] the same thing. -[4968.84 --> 4969.32] He said, -[4969.46 --> 4970.06] I haven't been -[4970.06 --> 4970.62] able to put my -[4970.62 --> 4971.08] finger on it, -[4971.10 --> 4971.66] but that's exactly -[4971.66 --> 4972.16] what's happening -[4972.16 --> 4972.80] in our life in -[4972.80 --> 4973.18] ministry. -[4973.18 --> 4975.22] just before I -[4975.22 --> 4975.64] came here, -[4975.72 --> 4976.42] someone came in -[4976.42 --> 4976.72] and said, -[4976.78 --> 4977.32] I need help in -[4977.32 --> 4977.76] this area, -[4978.08 --> 4979.30] please help me -[4979.30 --> 4980.16] find the forgiveness -[4980.16 --> 4980.92] of God and live. -[4981.62 --> 4982.36] The Spirit is at -[4982.36 --> 4983.70] work convicting us -[4983.70 --> 4984.74] and drawing us -[4984.74 --> 4986.64] into Christ Jesus. -[4988.24 --> 4988.90] And make no -[4988.90 --> 4989.62] mistake about it, -[4989.64 --> 4989.80] right? -[4989.86 --> 4991.12] Everyone who lives -[4991.12 --> 4992.98] in Christ has the -[4992.98 --> 4994.28] Holy Spirit and has -[4994.28 --> 4995.24] then been given a -[4995.24 --> 4996.48] Holy Spirit purpose, -[4996.70 --> 4997.80] a gift to serve -[4997.80 --> 4998.76] and to edify the -[4998.76 --> 4999.14] church. -[4999.14 --> 5000.62] And if you -[5000.62 --> 5001.86] resist that gift, -[5002.78 --> 5003.78] if you are stubborn -[5003.78 --> 5004.92] in becoming part of -[5004.92 --> 5005.60] the fellowship of -[5005.60 --> 5006.40] believers and working -[5006.40 --> 5006.98] to build up the -[5006.98 --> 5008.64] body, you're -[5008.64 --> 5009.18] quenching the -[5009.18 --> 5009.42] Spirit. -[5013.12 --> 5014.04] Someone comes up -[5014.04 --> 5014.90] to you and says, -[5015.28 --> 5017.20] I believe that God -[5017.20 --> 5018.10] has gifted you in -[5018.10 --> 5020.16] this way and that -[5020.16 --> 5020.62] you should do -[5020.62 --> 5021.52] something about it. -[5021.68 --> 5022.12] Or here's an -[5022.12 --> 5023.02] opportunity to do -[5023.02 --> 5023.92] something with what -[5023.92 --> 5024.60] I believe God has -[5024.60 --> 5025.26] gifted you. -[5027.12 --> 5027.94] And you, -[5027.94 --> 5029.62] presenting a false -[5029.62 --> 5031.10] humility, respond by -[5031.10 --> 5032.12] saying, no, not me, -[5032.20 --> 5032.88] I could never do -[5032.88 --> 5033.16] that. -[5034.14 --> 5034.90] You might be -[5034.90 --> 5035.34] quenching the -[5035.34 --> 5035.56] Spirit. -[5038.48 --> 5040.14] Equally, if you are -[5040.14 --> 5041.42] utterly convinced in -[5041.42 --> 5042.54] yourself that you have -[5042.54 --> 5043.06] been given a -[5043.06 --> 5044.38] particular gift, but no -[5044.38 --> 5045.06] one in your life has -[5045.06 --> 5045.98] affirmed it, no one -[5045.98 --> 5046.88] has come alongside and -[5046.88 --> 5048.06] said, hey, I wonder if -[5048.06 --> 5049.18] God is calling you into -[5049.18 --> 5049.72] this. -[5051.66 --> 5052.86] And if these people -[5052.86 --> 5053.86] have perhaps even -[5053.86 --> 5055.22] tried to dissuade you -[5055.22 --> 5056.70] from that idea, but -[5056.70 --> 5057.42] you are pressing -[5057.42 --> 5059.26] forward, you might be -[5059.26 --> 5059.92] quenching the Spirit -[5059.92 --> 5060.28] in them. -[5062.28 --> 5063.48] Do not quench the -[5063.48 --> 5063.78] Spirit. -[5064.86 --> 5066.08] Instead, fan the -[5066.08 --> 5067.48] flame, or to stick -[5067.48 --> 5068.04] with our mixed -[5068.04 --> 5069.56] metaphor, dive deep -[5069.56 --> 5070.56] into the ocean. -[5072.88 --> 5073.88] Do not treat -[5073.88 --> 5075.12] prophecies with -[5075.12 --> 5075.62] contempt. -[5078.04 --> 5078.90] Now, Paul regularly -[5078.90 --> 5079.92] warns his readers -[5079.92 --> 5081.18] about false prophets -[5081.18 --> 5082.64] and about wolves -[5082.64 --> 5084.58] disguised as sheep -[5084.58 --> 5085.84] and as shepherds. -[5085.84 --> 5086.84] false prophets. -[5086.84 --> 5088.12] And because of that, -[5088.62 --> 5089.70] right, because of that -[5089.70 --> 5090.88] regular warning, and -[5090.88 --> 5091.98] because we have seen it -[5091.98 --> 5092.68] and some of us have been -[5092.68 --> 5094.24] burned by it, right, there -[5094.24 --> 5096.32] is a possibility, maybe -[5096.32 --> 5097.76] even a tendency, to fall -[5097.76 --> 5098.60] into cynicism. -[5100.38 --> 5101.60] All Christians are -[5101.60 --> 5102.10] hypocrites. -[5102.78 --> 5104.16] All pastors are con -[5104.16 --> 5104.52] artists. -[5104.52 --> 5104.62] prophets. -[5105.30 --> 5109.54] But the reality is, God -[5109.54 --> 5111.68] has spoken and is -[5111.68 --> 5113.94] speaking through prophets. -[5114.48 --> 5116.22] God has given his voice -[5116.22 --> 5118.10] to people to declare his -[5118.10 --> 5120.24] word and his will, either -[5120.24 --> 5121.42] in an extraordinary -[5121.42 --> 5123.34] revelation of God or as -[5123.34 --> 5124.36] part of the ordinary -[5124.36 --> 5125.88] revelation of God in the -[5125.88 --> 5127.16] preaching of his word. -[5127.36 --> 5128.86] And those who live in -[5128.86 --> 5130.90] Christ Jesus will test -[5130.90 --> 5131.62] them all. -[5131.62 --> 5132.62] Right? -[5133.58 --> 5134.48] We won't dive into -[5134.48 --> 5136.34] cynicism, but test -[5136.34 --> 5137.26] them all means a -[5137.26 --> 5138.08] healthy dose of -[5138.08 --> 5139.40] skepticism isn't so -[5139.40 --> 5139.72] bad. -[5140.34 --> 5140.56] Right? -[5140.58 --> 5141.34] It can guard your -[5141.34 --> 5142.58] hearts from those who -[5142.58 --> 5143.70] would take advantage of -[5143.70 --> 5144.40] you or who would -[5144.40 --> 5145.58] spiritually abuse you. -[5146.40 --> 5147.48] And so here, as I -[5147.48 --> 5148.68] stand on stage, I -[5148.68 --> 5149.86] invite you, test -[5149.86 --> 5151.60] this spirit. -[5152.32 --> 5153.48] Test this -[5153.48 --> 5153.62] word. -[5154.38 --> 5155.24] Test this -[5155.24 --> 5156.12] message. -[5156.34 --> 5157.64] Invite the -[5157.64 --> 5158.74] spirit to show you -[5158.74 --> 5160.04] how it is the voice -[5160.04 --> 5161.32] of God speaking. -[5162.68 --> 5163.46] And here's a quick -[5163.46 --> 5164.30] tip for you who want -[5164.30 --> 5165.22] to follow up on that, -[5165.46 --> 5166.24] who want to test -[5166.24 --> 5167.04] prophecy. -[5168.24 --> 5169.42] Jesus Christ is the -[5169.42 --> 5170.78] same yesterday, today, -[5170.78 --> 5171.66] and tomorrow. -[5172.78 --> 5174.42] God is unchanging. -[5175.02 --> 5176.04] God's word is -[5176.04 --> 5176.60] eternal. -[5177.52 --> 5178.90] And so, God will -[5178.90 --> 5180.32] never contradict -[5180.32 --> 5181.66] himself or speak -[5181.66 --> 5182.20] wrongly. -[5183.30 --> 5183.50] Right? -[5183.58 --> 5184.78] Any new movement of -[5184.78 --> 5186.48] the spirit will be a -[5186.48 --> 5187.70] revival of the old, -[5187.78 --> 5188.26] old story. -[5188.26 --> 5190.66] And if you hear a -[5190.66 --> 5191.72] prophet who tries to -[5191.72 --> 5193.04] dismiss a word of God -[5193.04 --> 5193.90] from the Bible as -[5193.90 --> 5195.94] outdated or outmoded or -[5195.94 --> 5196.92] wrong for today's -[5196.92 --> 5198.56] world, that prophet is a -[5198.56 --> 5200.28] liar and should not be -[5200.28 --> 5200.80] listened to. -[5202.48 --> 5203.92] Your word, Lord, is -[5203.92 --> 5204.30] eternal. -[5204.58 --> 5205.96] It stands firm in the -[5205.96 --> 5206.28] heavens. -[5206.74 --> 5207.92] The grass withers and -[5207.92 --> 5209.02] the flowers fall, but the -[5209.02 --> 5210.52] word of our God endures -[5210.52 --> 5211.00] forever. -[5211.84 --> 5213.22] I, the Lord, do not -[5213.22 --> 5213.78] change. -[5214.34 --> 5215.06] Heaven and earth will -[5215.06 --> 5216.34] pass away, but my -[5216.34 --> 5218.42] words will never pass -[5218.42 --> 5219.16] away. -[5222.88 --> 5224.10] But for the prophet who -[5224.10 --> 5225.62] speaks words of life to -[5225.62 --> 5227.96] you, hang on to them. -[5229.32 --> 5231.10] Hang on to that word as -[5231.10 --> 5233.02] it's God speaking directly -[5233.02 --> 5234.74] to your heart and to your -[5234.74 --> 5235.22] imagination. -[5236.16 --> 5238.46] Know the word, study the -[5238.46 --> 5240.04] word so that you can test -[5240.04 --> 5241.58] the word that you hear. -[5241.58 --> 5243.88] And then in that you -[5243.88 --> 5247.08] will find more of God. -[5247.16 --> 5248.16] You will find yourself -[5248.16 --> 5251.26] deeper in Christ Jesus. -[5252.68 --> 5255.98] And lastly, reject every -[5255.98 --> 5257.40] kind of evil. -[5258.62 --> 5259.96] Now this is probably the -[5259.96 --> 5261.26] easiest one to understand, -[5262.08 --> 5263.22] but the hardest one to do. -[5266.58 --> 5269.12] Sin is crouching at your -[5269.12 --> 5270.62] door and desires to have -[5270.62 --> 5270.82] you. -[5272.02 --> 5273.52] The evil that we contend -[5273.52 --> 5274.74] with in our life is not -[5274.74 --> 5276.86] so much out there as it -[5276.86 --> 5277.42] is in here. -[5278.64 --> 5279.68] As it's in here. -[5280.64 --> 5281.00] Right? -[5281.06 --> 5281.90] In our own hearts and -[5281.90 --> 5283.06] minds and imaginations. -[5285.70 --> 5286.78] But hear this. -[5288.64 --> 5291.18] Jesus Christ has come into -[5291.18 --> 5291.68] the world. -[5292.52 --> 5294.30] And he has lived the life I -[5294.30 --> 5294.86] should have lived. -[5295.74 --> 5297.84] He has perfectly kept all -[5297.84 --> 5299.24] the commands of the law in -[5299.24 --> 5299.86] my place. -[5300.18 --> 5302.06] And by his grace he has -[5302.06 --> 5303.48] handed over his -[5303.48 --> 5305.40] perfection to you. -[5306.58 --> 5308.58] You just by faith must -[5308.58 --> 5309.16] receive it. -[5310.30 --> 5312.24] By faith must believe that -[5312.24 --> 5314.38] Jesus Christ is the son of -[5314.38 --> 5314.76] God. -[5314.88 --> 5316.12] That he is the Lord. -[5316.24 --> 5318.24] That he was raised from the -[5318.24 --> 5318.58] dead. -[5319.26 --> 5321.14] Because Jesus lived the life I -[5321.14 --> 5322.02] should have lived and he -[5322.02 --> 5323.46] died the death that I -[5323.46 --> 5323.86] deserved. -[5324.02 --> 5326.76] You now are set free from -[5326.76 --> 5328.10] sin and death. -[5328.20 --> 5330.88] You now are in Christ Jesus -[5330.88 --> 5332.86] transformed into a new -[5332.86 --> 5333.42] creation. -[5334.02 --> 5335.08] Your heart of stone has -[5335.08 --> 5336.40] become a heart of flesh that -[5336.40 --> 5338.08] finally for the first time -[5338.08 --> 5340.60] beats with the very love of -[5340.60 --> 5341.12] God. -[5344.64 --> 5347.04] Your heart of stone beats -[5347.04 --> 5349.66] with the Holy Spirit. -[5349.66 --> 5355.62] life lived in Christ Jesus is -[5355.62 --> 5358.90] life drenched in the Holy -[5358.90 --> 5359.44] Spirit. -[5361.92 --> 5363.08] Wherever you're going this -[5363.08 --> 5366.68] week I pray that part of it is -[5366.68 --> 5370.82] deeper into the ocean of our -[5370.82 --> 5371.76] relationship to God. -[5371.76 --> 5371.80] God. -[5372.56 --> 5373.42] Let's pray together. -[5383.48 --> 5384.28] All right I'm going to do -[5384.28 --> 5385.48] this as the worship team is -[5385.48 --> 5386.10] making their way up. -[5388.68 --> 5391.48] I want to invite the group from -[5391.48 --> 5392.80] Adult and Teen Challenge to -[5392.80 --> 5393.28] come to the front. -[5394.88 --> 5395.76] Take a spot here. -[5396.62 --> 5398.42] Elders, deacons, church members -[5398.42 --> 5399.30] I'm going to invite you to come -[5399.30 --> 5400.08] to the front as well. -[5400.08 --> 5401.76] So we're going to lay our -[5401.76 --> 5402.32] hands on them. -[5403.16 --> 5404.04] We're going to pray for them. -[5405.10 --> 5406.88] Not only as you have been for -[5406.88 --> 5408.74] us an example of diving deep -[5408.74 --> 5410.40] into the ocean of God's love -[5410.40 --> 5412.34] of transformation but that that -[5412.34 --> 5413.04] may continue. -[5413.92 --> 5414.90] And that your story of -[5414.90 --> 5416.98] transformation here might fuel -[5416.98 --> 5419.10] transformation wherever you go. -[5420.52 --> 5421.58] And so whether you come up to -[5421.58 --> 5422.58] the front or not I'm going to -[5422.58 --> 5424.22] invite you to hold your hand -[5424.22 --> 5424.36] out. -[5424.44 --> 5426.42] Let's stand as we pray this -[5426.42 --> 5427.92] prayer together. -[5427.92 --> 5430.54] Father, God is at work in our -[5430.54 --> 5433.36] midst and so we pray for his -[5433.36 --> 5434.08] work to continue. -[5434.68 --> 5435.16] Let's pray. -[5438.84 --> 5442.52] Holy, amazing, almighty God. -[5443.72 --> 5445.72] We are basking in the glory of -[5445.72 --> 5447.00] your presence this morning. -[5448.60 --> 5450.84] Your spirit is here and alive -[5450.84 --> 5451.60] among us. -[5451.60 --> 5453.76] You are at work in the world -[5453.76 --> 5456.14] and there is so many a story -[5456.14 --> 5457.68] and testimony in front of us -[5457.68 --> 5460.32] today bearing to that witness. -[5460.96 --> 5462.32] Witnessing the truth of the -[5462.32 --> 5464.24] gospel, the power of the -[5464.24 --> 5464.54] gospel. -[5464.68 --> 5466.04] And so, Lord God, today we -[5466.04 --> 5468.46] declare, I am not ashamed of the -[5468.46 --> 5470.14] gospel for it is the power of God -[5470.14 --> 5470.94] unto salvation. -[5471.34 --> 5474.08] We thank you for this salvation on -[5474.08 --> 5476.20] display among us today. -[5476.20 --> 5479.06] And we pray, Lord God, as you -[5479.06 --> 5482.62] draw us deeper, that you would -[5482.62 --> 5486.42] fan into a blazing fire our -[5486.42 --> 5487.72] faith and the work of the -[5487.72 --> 5489.06] spirit among us so that we might -[5489.06 --> 5491.28] go from this place transformed -[5491.28 --> 5492.56] and transforming. -[5493.32 --> 5494.84] That we might go from this place -[5494.84 --> 5496.92] renewed and renewing. -[5497.60 --> 5498.92] And that we might go from this -[5498.92 --> 5501.64] place rejoicing always. -[5501.64 --> 5506.36] that your name might be on our -[5506.36 --> 5506.64] lips. -[5507.18 --> 5509.96] That your praises might draw us -[5509.96 --> 5512.74] into the dark places of this -[5512.74 --> 5514.48] world so that we might bring the -[5514.48 --> 5516.08] light of the gospel. -[5517.58 --> 5518.82] And so the stories that you have -[5518.82 --> 5520.40] begun and are beginning here today, -[5520.54 --> 5522.58] I pray, Lord God, see them through -[5522.58 --> 5523.86] unto completion. -[5525.56 --> 5528.54] That we might, Lord Jesus, with fear -[5528.54 --> 5531.18] and trembling, work out the gift of -[5531.18 --> 5533.28] salvation that you have given today. -[5533.80 --> 5535.06] In Jesus' name we pray. -[5535.68 --> 5536.00] Amen. -[5536.88 --> 5537.18] Amen. -[5537.18 --> 5537.36] Amen. -[5561.18 --> 5567.18] Amen. -[5567.18 --> 5568.18] Amen. -[5568.18 --> 5569.18] Amen. -[5569.18 --> 5570.18] Amen. -[5570.18 --> 5573.18] Lord, I come to you. -[5573.72 --> 5578.80] Let my heart be changed, renewed, -[5580.40 --> 5589.94] flowing from the grace that I found in you. -[5589.94 --> 5605.94] Lord, I come to know, weaknesses I see in me. -[5605.94 --> 5614.94] Will we swift away by power of your love? -[5614.94 --> 5623.94] Let me move from the grace that I found in you. -[5623.94 --> 5624.68] Hold me close. -[5624.68 --> 5631.44] Let your love surround me. -[5631.44 --> 5637.04] Bring me here. -[5637.04 --> 5644.04] Draw me to your side -[5644.04 --> 5649.04] And as I wait -[5649.04 --> 5655.04] I'll rise up like the eagle -[5655.04 --> 5658.04] And the light will soar with you -[5658.04 --> 5661.04] Your spirit leads me on -[5661.04 --> 5667.04] In the power of your love -[5671.04 --> 5674.04] Lord unveil my eyes -[5674.04 --> 5678.04] Let me see your face -[5678.04 --> 5684.04] To face the knowledge of your love -[5684.04 --> 5690.04] As you live in me -[5691.04 --> 5699.04] Lord renew my mind -[5699.04 --> 5703.04] As your will unfolds -[5703.04 --> 5705.04] In my life -[5705.04 --> 5711.04] In living everyday -[5711.04 --> 5717.04] The power of your love -[5717.04 --> 5723.04] Hold me close -[5723.04 --> 5729.04] Let your love surround me -[5729.04 --> 5735.04] Bring me near -[5735.04 --> 5741.04] Draw me to your side -[5741.04 --> 5747.04] And as I wait -[5747.04 --> 5753.04] I'll rise up like the eagle -[5753.04 --> 5757.04] And I will soar with you -[5757.04 --> 5759.04] Your spirit leads me on -[5759.04 --> 5761.04] That leads me on -[5761.04 --> 5765.04] The power of your love -[5765.04 --> 5771.04] Hold me close -[5771.04 --> 5773.04] Let your love surround me -[5773.04 --> 5777.04] Let your love surround me -[5777.04 --> 5779.04] Bring me near -[5779.04 --> 5783.04] Bring me near -[5783.04 --> 5785.04] Bring me near -[5785.04 --> 5787.04] Draw me to your side -[5787.04 --> 5789.04] Bring me near -[5789.04 --> 5791.04] Draw me to your side -[5791.04 --> 5793.04] And as I wait -[5793.04 --> 5797.04] And as I wait -[5797.04 --> 5803.04] I'll rise up like the eagle -[5803.04 --> 5805.04] And as I wait -[5805.04 --> 5807.04] And as I wait -[5807.04 --> 5808.04] I will soar with you -[5808.04 --> 5809.04] Your spirit leads me on -[5809.04 --> 5813.04] In the power of your love -[5813.04 --> 5818.04] And as I wait -[5818.04 --> 5819.04] And as I wait -[5819.04 --> 5821.04] And as I wait -[5821.04 --> 5823.04] For your love -[5823.04 --> 5826.08] In the power of your love. -[5837.60 --> 5849.88] As you go, go with the blessing, go with the commissioning of God for the journey of life and faith lived in Christ Jesus ahead. -[5849.88 --> 5854.40] God, go before you to lead you. -[5855.28 --> 5857.54] God, go behind you to protect you. -[5858.32 --> 5860.66] God, go beneath you to support you. -[5861.00 --> 5863.68] And God, go beside you to befriend you. -[5864.26 --> 5865.98] Do not be afraid. -[5866.52 --> 5868.40] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5868.50 --> 5874.70] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5875.32 --> 5876.00] Amen. -[5879.88 --> 5881.88] Amen. -[5881.88 --> 5911.86] Burada ed gebaut mais -[5911.86 --> 5915.26] And keep you -[5915.26 --> 5919.54] Make his face shine upon you -[5919.54 --> 5922.58] Be gracious to you -[5922.58 --> 5928.98] Lord turn his face toward you -[5928.98 --> 5935.04] And give peace -[5935.04 --> 5942.44] Lord bless you -[5942.44 --> 5945.86] And keep you -[5945.86 --> 5950.16] Make his face shine upon you -[5950.16 --> 5953.00] Be gracious to you -[5953.00 --> 5959.30] Lord turn his face toward you -[5959.30 --> 5964.30] And give you peace -[5964.30 --> 5979.72] Amen -[5979.84 --> 5987.48] Amen -[5987.48 --> 5992.04] Amen. Amen. -[5995.04 --> 6001.54] Lord bless you and keep you. -[6001.54 --> 6005.54] May his face shine upon you. -[6005.94 --> 6008.36] Be gracious to you. -[6008.66 --> 6014.46] Lord turn his face toward you. -[6014.46 --> 6019.46] And give you peace. -[6023.46 --> 6034.02] Amen. Amen. Amen. -[6034.02 --> 6040.46] Amen. Amen. -[6044.46 --> 6059.46] Amen. Amen. Amen. Amen. Amen. -[6059.46 --> 6072.46] Amen. Amen. Amen. Amen. -[6072.46 --> 6074.46] Amen. -[6074.46 --> 6076.46] Amen. -[6076.46 --> 6077.46] Amen. -[6077.46 --> 6079.46] Amen. -[6079.46 --> 6081.46] Amen. -[6081.46 --> 6083.46] Amen. -[6083.46 --> 6093.22] Let His presence be upon you and a thousand generations -[6093.22 --> 6099.76] And your family and your children and their children and their children -[6099.76 --> 6106.06] May His favor be upon you and a thousand generations -[6106.06 --> 6112.58] And your family and your children and their children and their children -[6112.58 --> 6120.82] May His presence be upon you and behind you and beside you and all around you -[6120.82 --> 6125.60] And within you He is with you He is with you -[6125.60 --> 6131.78] In the morning, in the evening, in the coming, in the going -[6131.78 --> 6150.30] In your weeping and rejoicing He is for you -[6150.30 --> 6161.30] Amen, Amen, Amen -[6161.30 --> 6173.80] Amen, Amen, Amen -[6173.80 --> 6186.30] Amen, Amen, Amen -[6186.30 --> 6199.30] Amen, Amen, Amen -[6199.30 --> 6206.46] Praise the Lord -[6206.46 --> 6213.30] Come, whom all blessings flow -[6213.30 --> 6220.96] He has washed them -[6220.96 --> 6226.30] May He white and slow -[6226.30 --> 6233.02] Thine redeemed -[6233.02 --> 6239.30] From all my sin and shame -[6239.30 --> 6244.96] Now and forever -[6244.96 --> 6250.96] Praise His holy day -[6250.96 --> 6257.96] Praise His holy day -[6257.96 --> 6263.96] Praise His holy day -[6263.96 --> 6267.62] To God be the glory -[6267.62 --> 6269.62] Now and forever -[6269.62 --> 6270.62] Now and forever -[6270.62 --> 6272.62] Praise His holy day -[6272.62 --> 6273.62] Praise His holy day -[6273.62 --> 6278.62] Praise the Lord -[6278.62 --> 6282.62] Praise the Lord -[6282.62 --> 6287.62] From whom all blessings flow -[6287.62 --> 6295.28] He has washed them -[6295.28 --> 6296.28] He has washed them -[6296.28 --> 6299.28] May He white and slow -[6299.28 --> 6300.28] He has washed them -[6300.28 --> 6301.28] May He white and slow -[6301.28 --> 6305.28] I redeem -[6305.28 --> 6309.28] From all my sin and shame -[6309.28 --> 6314.94] From all my sin and shame -[6314.94 --> 6318.94] Now and forever -[6318.94 --> 6328.60] Praise His holy day -[6328.60 --> 6330.60] Praise His holy day -[6330.60 --> 6332.60] Praise His holy day -[6332.60 --> 6334.60] Praise His holy day -[6334.60 --> 6336.60] Praise His holy day -[6336.60 --> 6338.60] To God be the glory -[6338.60 --> 6344.26] Now and forever -[6344.26 --> 6351.26] Praise His holy day -[6351.26 --> 6360.26] Praise His holy day -[6360.26 --> 6372.66] praise -[6377.94 --> 6386.66] um -[6390.26 --> 6420.24] Thank you. -[6420.26 --> 6450.24] Thank you. -[6450.26 --> 6480.24] Thank you. -[6480.26 --> 6482.26] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, April 7, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, April 7, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index e818e50bbbf859f89152d0a72dd7d20c31cc4aff..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, April 7, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,122 +0,0 @@ -• Treatment Tag game announced -• Instructions for playing: tag someone with a treat, then pay it forward by tagging others -• No rules, can be done anonymously or not -• Encouragement to connect with people outside of regular church activities -• Worship service begins, including greeting and welcoming each other -• Call to worship from Psalm 145 -• The Lord requires us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8) -• Praising and worshiping God for giving life, being love, and bringing life to darkness -• Expressing gratitude for God's breath in our lives and pouring out praise to Him -• References to the story of Jesus Christ and His resurrection -• Praise and worship of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as one God -• Prayers and worship songs -• Scripture quotes, particularly John 3:16 -• Requests for forgiveness, mercy, and healing -• Expressions of gratitude for God's love and salvation -• Themes of freedom from sin and addiction -• Reflections on God's goodness and faithfulness throughout one's life -• Discussion of devotion and faithfulness to God -• Recitation of a poem or song expressing trust in God and following His ways -• Introduction to the GEMS program and its mission to empower girls to live out their faith -• Overview of the Langley Emanuel CRC GEMS program, including its leaders, age range, and activities -• Explanation of the year's theme, "Rise Up," and its focus on Esther's story and God's use of ordinary people to do extraordinary things -• Discussion of five Bible-based truths about God's character: King, Deliverer, Trustworthy, Always at Work, and With You Wherever You Go -• Psalm 47, verse 2 - God is king -• Psalm 18, verse 2 - God is trustworthy and will do what he says -• Psalm 145, verse 13 - God is always at work and near to those who call on him -• Joshua 1, verse 13 - The Lord will be with you wherever you go -• A story of a girl without a mother or father who found favor with the king and was an offering for her people -• A story about Jesus Christ being the flavor of the king, loving the lonely, healing the sick, and feeding the hungry as he hung on a cross -• The power of God's love and steadfastness to bring people home and hold all things together -• Story of transformation and redemption -• Offerings for church budget and GEMS Ministry of North America -• Identity and new status as sons and daughters, worthy and wanted -• Authority to reign like kings and queens, made for victory -• Chosen and redeemed, renamed and adopted -• Kings in a kingdom with no end -• Majesty, crown, and dignity -• Children's worship time discussed, including age group and welcome for visitors -• Concept of things being real but invisible discussed, using wind as example -• Bible story about Thomas and his struggle to believe in Jesus discussed -• Call to participate in blessings and receive a blessing -• Announcements from the church council, including upcoming nominations and prayer requests -• Upcoming celebration of Lord's Supper -• Prayer requests for congregation members and their families -• Update on missionary work in Mexico -• Health concerns and prayers for specific individuals -• Prayers for mental health struggles and those grieving the loss of loved ones -• Blessings and guidance for church staff, council members, and volunteers -• The speaker discusses how the book of Esther reveals God's character and nature despite not mentioning God directly -• The challenge in learning about God from Esther due to its lack of direct references to God -• A brief overview of the story of Esther, set against the backdrop of the Jewish people being taken into exile in Babylon and Persia -• The Persian Empire's history and culture as a context for understanding the story of Esther -• The introduction of key characters: Xerxes, Vashti, Hadassah (Esther), and Mordecai -• Introduction of Haman, a key character who represents the historic enmity towards God's people -• Haman's promotion to prime minister and his anger at Mordecai for refusing to bow down -• Haman's plot to destroy all Jews, cast lots to determine how he will do so, and fool the king into following along -• Esther's responsibility to protect her people and speak to the king -• Mordecai's warning to Esther that she cannot keep her Jewish identity secret forever and must act to save her people -• The concept of "for such a time as this," suggesting that Esther was placed in position for this moment to save her people. -• The Bible reveals the action of God in history and teaches about His nature and character. -• The story of Esther broadens understanding to include times when God doesn't seem present, but He is still working towards His will. -• God's sovereignty means that even when we can't see Him, He is still present and guiding history for His glory because He is king. -• The story of Esther is a contest between Xerxes and the true King of God's people and the world. -• God orchestrates events to bring about His purposes and rules over all things in this world. -• If God is not king, life lacks purpose and meaning, making it a guessing game with no confidence that what we face has any significance. -• God has a plan and is in control -• Trusting God is key to understanding His plan -• God's character is holy, good, and beautiful -• God remembers and hears His people, even when they sin -• An example of trusting God was demonstrated through an exercise involving volunteers -• The story of a woman who couldn't see God but could hear his voice -• Trusting in God's presence and word, even when we can't see him -• God revealing himself to us through scripture and others -• Being a revelation of God to each other as we share his word -• Following and falling back into the arms of God for trust and guidance -• God as king and trustworthy because He is our deliverer -• Mordecai's faith and trust in God based on his upbringing and experiences -• The importance of hearing and practicing the story of Esther and its promises -• Jesus as the Messiah, Savior, and agent of redemption who went all the way to death to bring deliverance -• Paul's statement in Romans 5 that Christ died for the ungodly at just the right time -• Discussion of humanity's behavior and God's perceived absence -• Mention of Roman rule and Jewish puppet kings -• Reference to Jesus' life and death as a demonstration of timing and purpose -• Allusion to Esther's story and its relevance to trust in God's deliverance and sovereignty -• Reflection on God's active work in the world, despite appearances to the contrary -• The concept of God's providence and sovereignty -• God's nearness to individuals in their lives, including in times of despair -• The incarnation of Jesus Christ as evidence of God's dwelling among humans -• The idea that God is present even when not visibly apparent -• Encouragement to hope in the Lord for spiritual strength and renewal -• The importance of knowing God's presence and nearness in one's life -• The Savior meets individuals personally, gathering them into His presence -• Message that everyone needs to hear: God is near regardless of circumstances or situation -• Gems and girls being counseled -• Importance of parental support for the counselors -• God's presence in the faces of those around them -• Encouragement to love, support, and remember the counselors in prayers -• Recognizing God's nearness through every person seen -• Prayer and seeking God's presence -• Recognizing God as a deliverer and king -• Expressing gratitude for God's nearness -• Citing the story of Esther as an example of God's involvement -• Praise and worship of God as holy king -• Praying for empowerment and strength -• Calling on God to raise up a mighty army for His purposes -• Asking to be empowered to serve others, spread the Gospel, and minister in Jesus' name -• Expressing trust in God's sovereignty and presence in all aspects of life -• Committing to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God -• Waiting upon the Lord -• God's reign forever -• Deliverance from troubles -• Everlasting God, strength rising -• Hope in God's deliverance -• Jesus is good, Lord willing to help -• Fellowship gathering after worship service -• Inviting others to share their experiences of God's work -• Sharing personal experiences of seeing God at work in life -• Inviting the Mexico mission team to share their stories -• Fellowship and lunch invitation -• Praying for God's blessing, protection, and guidance -• Praise and worship with repetition of "We to our God forever and ever" -• Closing with multiple iterations of saying "Amen" \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, April 7, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, April 7, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a58067b78f8f4e9159022b47dd5d76eb11d57400..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, April 7, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2334 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.96] Thank you. -[479.96 --> 509.94] Thank you. -[509.94 --> 539.92] Thank you. -[539.94 --> 569.92] Thank you. -[570.60 --> 572.60] It's treat tag again, Josh. -[572.82 --> 574.02] What are we gonna do? -[574.52 --> 575.94] I have an idea. -[576.42 --> 577.46] I don't know, Josh. -[577.82 --> 579.66] Last year didn't end so well for you. -[580.20 --> 580.74] No, no, no. -[581.42 --> 582.70] This one can't go wrong. -[599.92 --> 609.94] Welcome to Jurassic Park. -[609.94 --> 612.66] Welcome to Jurassic Park. -[612.66 --> 612.70] Welcome to Jurassic Park. -[612.70 --> 613.70] Welcome to Jurassic Park. -[613.70 --> 618.88] I'm not sure I like this idea, Josh. -[618.88 --> 648.86] What's that noise. -[648.88 --> 678.86] It's coming. -[678.88 --> 708.88] Once again, it's the month of the day, -[708.88 --> 712.22] is the day today, the so you're going to, you know, -[712.22 --> 717.50] something to give, look up people in the directory, look at people at your church, show up at their -[717.50 --> 722.36] doorstep, put it in their mailbox, whatever creative way you can think of, go and tag -[722.36 --> 728.52] someone with that treat. And then if you get tagged by someone, pay it forward, go tag -[728.52 --> 733.40] one or two or eight other people with a gift or treat. -[733.40 --> 739.78] When you tag people, you can choose to do that anonymously. You can choose to do that -[739.78 --> 747.22] with a card that says who it's from. You can choose to do that by knocking on the door and running away -[747.22 --> 754.18] as they come to open it and find the gift there. Or you can stand and wait and say, treat tag and hand -[754.18 --> 759.86] them their box of candy or their bag of books or whatever it is that you are giving. -[759.86 --> 766.18] Basically, there is no rules. There are some tags that you can print and use with your treats here at the -[766.18 --> 770.90] link below this video, or you can find some in the midweek memo or bulletin as well. -[770.90 --> 777.86] So one last time, make sure that you are tagging as many people as you can, but especially those people -[777.86 --> 783.62] whom you may not know or haven't yet met, reach out to them. If you're not sure how to connect with -[783.62 --> 791.14] people or how to tag someone, you can contact us or the church office and we will happily get you -[791.14 --> 797.38] connected there. And then when you do share, share that online. We want to encourage you this year -[797.38 --> 806.18] to use the hashtag LICRC treat tag 24. And that way we'll be able to collect all of those and see the -[806.18 --> 814.26] way it's spread around in our community together. In the meantime, I wonder how Josh is doing? -[814.26 --> 827.38] guys, this was definitely a bad idea. -[827.38 --> 828.02] treat K! -[831.06 --> 831.86] man, i'm hungry. -[838.90 --> 839.54] treat K! -[844.26 --> 855.62] okay, so it is treat tag. Thanks, linda. If you would like to get started right away, there are some -[855.62 --> 862.42] tags on the connect booth. You can grab, take home and use those as you are tagging people. I'm going -[862.42 --> 870.90] to invite the worship leaders up front and we can come together and worship our God. As we gather in -[870.90 --> 876.82] worship, we know that God is in this place and we mark that by receiving his greeting. And so as -[876.82 --> 881.38] these ones come up, I invite you also, if you're able and where you are, to stand. -[886.90 --> 893.14] After we receive God's greeting, I invite you to turn to those around you and to greet them in -[893.14 --> 897.86] worship this morning. And you can do so in various ways with a handshake or a head nod or a fist bump. -[897.86 --> 902.98] If you're not, you can say, peace of Christ be with you or the Lord be with you or welcome. However it is, -[902.98 --> 908.02] you are moved to do that. We encourage you just to welcome everyone into this space. Receive the greeting -[908.02 --> 915.46] of God. Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, -[915.46 --> 922.34] Son and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. -[927.86 --> 942.18] Same if Gina Taunel from someone. -[944.26 --> 948.34] Isn't that safe? -[948.34 --> 950.66] Target килom, -[950.66 --> 951.70] especially when it comes in. -[951.70 --> 973.28] is from Psalm 145. -[974.40 --> 977.36] I will exalt you, my God the King. -[977.66 --> 980.16] I will praise your name forever and ever. -[980.16 --> 984.18] Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise. -[984.54 --> 986.72] His greatness no one can fathom. -[987.46 --> 990.46] One generation commends your works to another. -[990.90 --> 992.90] They tell of your mighty acts. -[994.08 --> 998.12] This passage for the call to worship this morning -[998.12 --> 1001.18] is fitting as we celebrate God's faithfulness -[1001.18 --> 1006.54] in witnessing the number of generations of past and present -[1006.54 --> 1009.40] and future gems worshiping here today. -[1010.16 --> 1015.76] So I'm going to ask this question to all of the current gems and leaders -[1015.76 --> 1019.40] and also any past gems or Calvinettes or leaders. -[1019.92 --> 1021.82] So what does the Lord require of you? -[1022.08 --> 1026.64] To act justly, to love mercy, to walk humbly with your God. -[1026.80 --> 1028.82] Micah 6 verse 8. -[1028.82 --> 1028.86] Micah 6 verse 8. -[1028.86 --> 1035.92] Let's worship together. -[1035.92 --> 1054.56] You give life. -[1054.56 --> 1055.56] You are love. -[1055.56 --> 1057.56] You bring life. -[1057.56 --> 1060.68] You bring life to the darkness. -[1060.68 --> 1062.56] You give up. -[1062.56 --> 1063.56] You restore. -[1063.56 --> 1069.10] Every heart that is broken. -[1069.10 --> 1070.10] You bring life to the darkness. -[1070.10 --> 1082.96] You bring life to the darkness. -[1082.96 --> 1087.86] You bring life to the darkness. -[1087.86 --> 1091.30] our lives -[1101.86 --> 1113.30] you give life you are love you bring life to the darkness you give hope you restore -[1113.30 --> 1118.34] every heart that is broken -[1118.34 --> 1125.30] pray on you lord -[1125.30 --> 1137.86] it's your breath in our mouths so we pour out our praise pour out our praise it's your breath in our -[1137.86 --> 1143.78] lungs so we pour out our praise to -[1143.78 --> 1157.54] them -[1157.54 --> 1172.04] And all the earth will shout a praise -[1172.04 --> 1176.54] Our hearts will cry, these bones will sing -[1176.54 --> 1183.94] Wake up, you Lord -[1183.94 --> 1189.08] And all the earth will shout your praise -[1189.08 --> 1193.54] Our hearts will cry, these bones will sing -[1193.54 --> 1200.14] Wake up, you Lord -[1200.14 --> 1205.88] And all the earth will shout your praise -[1205.88 --> 1210.00] Our hearts will cry, these bones will sing -[1210.00 --> 1217.54] Great for you, Lord -[1217.54 --> 1221.48] Your breath in our lives -[1221.48 --> 1225.86] That we pour out our praise, pour out our praise -[1225.86 --> 1229.42] It's your breath in our lives -[1229.42 --> 1233.50] That we pour out our praise to the Lord -[1233.50 --> 1237.56] It's your breath in our lives -[1237.56 --> 1240.20] Till we pour out our praise -[1240.20 --> 1242.06] Pour out our praise -[1242.06 --> 1245.66] It's your breath in our lives -[1245.66 --> 1249.78] Till we pour out our praise to all -[1263.50 --> 1290.78] In the darkness we were waiting -[1290.78 --> 1294.60] Without hope, without light -[1294.60 --> 1297.80] Till the heavens had been running -[1297.80 --> 1301.94] There was mercy in your eyes -[1301.94 --> 1305.10] To declare the law and prophets -[1305.10 --> 1308.86] To a virgin came the word -[1308.86 --> 1312.14] From a throne of endless glory -[1312.14 --> 1316.62] To a cradle in the dirt -[1316.62 --> 1325.08] Praise the Father -[1325.08 --> 1328.58] Praise the Son -[1328.58 --> 1332.06] Praise the Spirit -[1332.06 --> 1335.70] Free in one -[1335.70 --> 1339.24] God of glory -[1339.24 --> 1342.62] Let His feet -[1342.62 --> 1350.08] Praise forever to the King of kings -[1350.08 --> 1357.44] To reveal the kingdom coming -[1357.44 --> 1361.04] Back to the heavens of the lost -[1361.04 --> 1364.22] To redeem the whole creation -[1364.22 --> 1368.08] Through Him not disguise the lies -[1368.08 --> 1371.00] For we made the suffering -[1371.00 --> 1374.76] His heart to the other side -[1374.76 --> 1377.78] Knowing this was my salvation -[1377.78 --> 1382.48] Dreams before our Savior died -[1382.48 --> 1390.54] Praise the Father -[1390.54 --> 1393.54] Praise the Son -[1393.54 --> 1396.92] Praise the Spirit -[1396.92 --> 1400.00] Free in one -[1400.00 --> 1404.00] God of glory -[1404.00 --> 1407.00] Let His feet -[1407.00 --> 1415.00] Praise forever to the King of kings -[1415.00 --> 1419.46] For the Lord -[1419.46 --> 1421.96] In the morning that you rose -[1421.96 --> 1425.64] All of heaven held its breath -[1425.64 --> 1429.10] Till the stone was moved for good -[1429.10 --> 1432.86] For the Lamb had conquered death -[1432.86 --> 1436.32] And the dead rose from their tombs -[1436.32 --> 1439.92] And the angels stood in awe -[1439.92 --> 1443.32] For the souls of all who'd come -[1443.32 --> 1446.38] To the Father are restored -[1446.38 --> 1450.44] And the church of Christ was born -[1450.44 --> 1454.02] And the Spirit lit the flame -[1454.02 --> 1457.32] Now that His gospel to the gold -[1457.32 --> 1460.38] Shall not heal and shall not faint -[1460.38 --> 1464.28] And His blood in His name -[1464.28 --> 1467.62] In His freedom I am free -[1467.62 --> 1471.12] For the love of Jesus Christ -[1471.12 --> 1474.90] Who has resurrected me -[1474.90 --> 1483.38] Praise the Father -[1483.38 --> 1486.52] Praise the Son -[1486.52 --> 1489.90] Praise the Spirit -[1489.90 --> 1490.90] Praise the Spirit -[1490.90 --> 1492.90] Three in one -[1492.90 --> 1496.90] God of glory -[1496.90 --> 1498.90] Majesty -[1498.90 --> 1507.44] Praise forever to the King of kings -[1507.44 --> 1515.98] Praise forever to the King of kings -[1515.98 --> 1527.72] Praise the Orient -[1527.72 --> 1528.52] sek -[1528.62 --> 1530.50] Import Musik -[1530.50 --> 1532.36] onne -[1532.36 --> 1533.36] Women -[1533.36 --> 1534.40] ốn -[1534.40 --> 1536.32] Arbor -[1536.32 --> 1537.30] Jingle -[1538.88 --> 1540.40] in -[1540.44 --> 1541.78] La -[1541.78 --> 1542.60] j -[1542.78 --> 1543.14] 放 -[1543.14 --> 1543.98] seventh -[1543.98 --> 1544.50] stump -[1544.50 --> 1545.60] ăn -[1545.60 --> 1557.22] Come all you weary, come all you thirsty, come to the well that never runs dry. -[1557.22 --> 1563.32] Drink of the water, come and thirst no more. -[1566.10 --> 1574.78] Come all you sinners, come find His mercy, come to the table He will satisfy. -[1575.60 --> 1580.82] Taste of His goodness, find what you'll look for. -[1583.76 --> 1593.68] For God so loved, the world that He gave us is one and only Son to save us. -[1593.82 --> 1598.92] Whoever believes in Him will live forever. -[1598.92 --> 1610.92] Bring all your failures, bring your addictions, come lay them down at the foot of the cross. -[1610.92 --> 1618.32] Jesus is waiting there with love in arms. -[1618.32 --> 1629.60] For God so loved, the world that He gave us is one and only Son to save us. -[1629.60 --> 1635.60] Whoever believes in Him will live forever. -[1637.76 --> 1642.74] The power of hell forever defeated. -[1643.10 --> 1647.30] Now it is well of walking in freedom. -[1647.30 --> 1653.92] For God so loved, God so loved the world. -[1653.92 --> 1664.08] Praise God, praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[1664.08 --> 1674.26] Praise Him, praise Him, for the wonders of His love. -[1674.26 --> 1682.60] Praise God, praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[1682.60 --> 1692.42] Praise Him, praise Him, for the wonders of His love. -[1692.42 --> 1704.42] For God so loved, the world that He gave us is one and only Son to save us. -[1704.42 --> 1713.26] For God so loved, the world that He gave us is one and only Son to save us. -[1713.26 --> 1718.26] Whoever believes in Him will live forever. -[1718.26 --> 1720.26] Whoever believes in Him will live forever. -[1720.26 --> 1722.26] Whoever believes in Him will live forever. -[1722.26 --> 1726.26] The power of hell forever defeated. -[1726.26 --> 1730.26] Now it is well, I'm walking in freedom. -[1730.26 --> 1738.26] For God so loved, God so loved the world. -[1738.26 --> 1749.26] Bring all your failures, bring your addictions, come lay them down at the foot of the cross. -[1749.26 --> 1757.26] Jesus is waiting, God so loved the world. -[1768.26 --> 1773.26] Please pray with me. -[1773.26 --> 1782.26] Our Heavenly Father, we come to you this morning as a church family, but also as individuals who need your grace and mercy. -[1782.26 --> 1786.26] We have all sinned, as we have just sung. -[1786.26 --> 1791.26] Some of us are weary and feel like failures in our own sinfulness. -[1791.26 --> 1794.26] We are thirsty for your love and mercy. -[1794.26 --> 1799.26] We are so thankful that you are the well that never runs dry. -[1799.26 --> 1809.26] Dear God, you know our hearts, you know our failures, you know our addictions, and we lay them all now at the foot of the cross in a moment of silent prayer. -[1809.26 --> 1810.26] You know our hearts Alan... -[1810.26 --> 1811.26] Peace... -[1811.26 --> 1812.26] Please... -[1812.26 --> 1813.26] May help... -[1813.26 --> 1814.26] andelnie... -[1814.26 --> 1815.26] Maybe hello to God, be on hold... -[1815.26 --> 1816.26] Maybe. -[1816.26 --> 1817.26] Welcome. -[1817.26 --> 1818.26] Peace... -[1818.26 --> 1819.26] Your wonderful powers... -[1819.26 --> 1820.26] And from theogamy... -[1820.26 --> 1822.26] My Little Hip of Nós... -[1822.26 --> 1824.26] Your mosquito recicon... -[1824.26 --> 1825.26] Matt Position... -[1825.26 --> 1826.26] So it would just listen... -[1826.26 --> 1830.76] Help... -[1831.26 --> 1836.26] To your heavenly Lily... -[1836.26 --> 1842.58] we thank you God -[1842.58 --> 1845.28] that you so loved the world -[1845.28 --> 1848.10] that you sacrificed your one and only son -[1848.10 --> 1849.24] for us who believe -[1849.24 --> 1852.28] we thank you that the power of hell -[1852.28 --> 1853.80] has been defeated -[1853.80 --> 1857.14] so that we will live forever with you -[1857.14 --> 1859.08] praise God -[1859.08 --> 1860.66] praise God -[1860.66 --> 1862.96] in Jesus we pray -[1862.96 --> 1864.00] amen -[1864.00 --> 1864.56] amen -[1864.56 --> 1867.18] amen -[1894.00 --> 1900.00] I love you Lord -[1900.00 --> 1906.00] Oh your mercy never fails me -[1906.00 --> 1912.00] All my days I have held in your hands -[1912.00 --> 1916.00] The moment I wake up -[1916.00 --> 1920.00] Until I lay my head -[1920.00 --> 1928.00] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1928.00 --> 1936.00] All my life you have been faithful -[1936.00 --> 1944.00] All my life you have been so, so good -[1944.00 --> 1948.00] With every breath that I am in -[1948.00 --> 1954.00] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1954.00 --> 1958.00] I love your voice -[1958.00 --> 1964.00] You have led me through the fire -[1964.00 --> 1966.00] The darkest night -[1966.00 --> 1970.00] You are close like no other -[1970.00 --> 1974.00] I've known you as a father -[1974.00 --> 1978.00] I've known you as a friend -[1978.00 --> 1984.00] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1984.00 --> 1994.00] All my life you have been faithful -[1994.00 --> 2000.00] All my life you have been so, so good -[2000.00 --> 2006.00] With every breath that I am in -[2006.00 --> 2012.00] I will sing of the goodness of God -[2012.00 --> 2018.00] Your goodness is running out -[2018.00 --> 2022.00] It's running out for me -[2022.00 --> 2024.00] Your goodness is running out -[2024.00 --> 2028.00] It's running out for me -[2028.00 --> 2030.00] Your goodness is running out -[2030.00 --> 2032.00] It's running out for me -[2032.00 --> 2034.00] Your goodness is running out for me -[2034.00 --> 2048.00] Your goodness is running out for me -[2048.00 --> 2054.00] Your goodness is running out for me -[2054.00 --> 2064.00] Your goodness is running out for me -[2064.00 --> 2069.00] Your goodness is running out for me -[2069.00 --> 2073.00] And all my life you have been faithful -[2073.00 --> 2076.78] And all my life you have been faithful. -[2079.10 --> 2086.54] And all my life you have been so, so good. -[2086.54 --> 2098.90] With every breath that I am made of, I will sing of the goodness of God. -[2098.90 --> 2106.58] I will sing of the goodness of God. -[2128.90 --> 2145.14] When you go, I'll go. -[2145.14 --> 2147.14] Where you stay, I'll stay. -[2148.10 --> 2150.42] When you move, I'll move. -[2150.70 --> 2151.98] I will follow. -[2153.10 --> 2155.44] Where you go, I'll go. -[2155.90 --> 2158.08] Where you stay, I'll stay. -[2158.48 --> 2160.68] When you move, I'll move. -[2160.96 --> 2162.26] I will follow. -[2162.26 --> 2175.40] Where you ways are good. -[2175.74 --> 2177.86] All your ways are sure. -[2179.30 --> 2182.72] I will trust in you alone. -[2183.06 --> 2185.26] Higher than my sight. -[2185.56 --> 2187.64] High above my God. -[2187.64 --> 2193.64] I will trust in you alone. -[2197.64 --> 2199.70] When you go, I'll go. -[2200.04 --> 2201.64] Where you stay, I'll stay. -[2202.46 --> 2204.32] When you move, I'll move. -[2204.74 --> 2206.04] I will follow. -[2206.94 --> 2209.44] When you love, I'll love. -[2209.68 --> 2211.76] When you serve, I'll serve. -[2211.76 --> 2214.20] In this life, my dreams. -[2214.50 --> 2216.76] I will follow you. -[2217.64 --> 2222.64] I will follow you. -[2226.64 --> 2228.74] Light into the world. -[2229.04 --> 2232.04] Light into my mind. -[2232.50 --> 2235.88] I will live for you alone. -[2236.20 --> 2237.64] You're the one I see. -[2238.60 --> 2241.76] Knowing I will find. -[2241.76 --> 2245.76] All I need is you alone. -[2250.76 --> 2252.76] When you go, I'll go. -[2252.86 --> 2255.00] When you stay, I'll stay. -[2255.26 --> 2257.36] When you move, I'll move. -[2257.62 --> 2259.76] I will follow you. -[2259.76 --> 2262.22] When you love, I'll love. -[2262.46 --> 2264.52] When you serve, I'll serve. -[2264.52 --> 2265.52] When you serve, I'll move. -[2265.52 --> 2266.52] When you serve, I'll move. -[2266.52 --> 2269.52] When you serve, I'll follow you. -[2269.52 --> 2270.52] I will follow you. -[2270.52 --> 2271.52] Yeah. -[2271.52 --> 2272.52] I will follow you. -[2272.52 --> 2273.52] I will follow you. -[2273.52 --> 2274.52] Yeah. -[2274.52 --> 2275.52] Yeah. -[2275.52 --> 2276.52] When you serve, I'll move. -[2276.52 --> 2277.52] Yeah. -[2277.52 --> 2278.52] Yeah. -[2278.52 --> 2282.52] In you, there's life everlasting. -[2282.52 --> 2288.52] In you, there's freedom for my soul. -[2288.52 --> 2289.52] Give you joy. -[2289.52 --> 2290.52] In you, there's joy. -[2290.52 --> 2291.52] In you, there's joy. -[2291.52 --> 2293.52] And in you, there's joy. -[2293.52 --> 2295.52] I will follow you. -[2295.52 --> 2297.52] I will follow you. -[2297.52 --> 2300.52] pineapple -[2300.52 --> 2301.24] Where you go, I'll go. -[2301.42 --> 2303.92] Where you ocean, sadece, SAID, -[2304.52 --> 2305.52] Where you move, I'll move. -[2305.52 --> 2307.62] I will follow you. -[2308.52 --> 2311.52] I will follow you. -[2312.78 --> 2313.52] Your little Italy -[2314.52 --> 2319.98] I will follow you. -[2319.98 --> 2321.98] Oh -[2349.98 --> 2351.90] a -[2379.98 --> 2389.14] Hello, my name is Courtney and I'm the coordinator for the Langley Emanuel CRC GEMS program. -[2389.62 --> 2394.50] GEMS stands for Girls Everywhere Meeting the Savior, and its vision is to see girls around -[2394.50 --> 2399.00] the world actively and enthusiastically expressing love for God and for others. -[2399.60 --> 2403.90] Girls equipped, motivated, and passionately engaged in living out their faith. -[2404.42 --> 2409.02] The mission of GEMS is to bring girls everywhere into a living dynamic relationship with Jesus -[2409.02 --> 2415.46] Christ. Langley Emanuel GEMS does this through Bible study, badges, crafts, songs, having -[2415.46 --> 2421.16] conversations, and so much more. We currently have 10 leaders and 40 girls, ranging in ages -[2421.16 --> 2427.26] from grade 3 to grade 7. This year the theme has been Rise Up, which has helped us to explore -[2427.26 --> 2432.02] the story of Esther. We have been learning about how God can use an ordinary person to -[2432.02 --> 2437.32] do extraordinary things, how Esther was more than an orphan or a pretty face. She was a -[2437.32 --> 2441.94] girl who could rise up in faith and stand her ground because she put her hope in God alone. -[2442.72 --> 2447.42] But in order for us to trust God, we have to know who he is. We saw part of God's character -[2447.42 --> 2453.70] through these five Bible-based truths. God is king. God is our deliverer. God is trustworthy. -[2454.48 --> 2460.16] God is always at work. God is with you wherever you go. The girls were reminded to put their faith -[2460.16 --> 2463.42] in God through our theme verse this year, which they will share now. -[2463.42 --> 2487.48] There is nothing easy about being a girl or living in our world today. We face unique challenges -[2487.48 --> 2495.02] and unsustainable pressures in a culture of confusion about who God is and what truth is, or what is truth. -[2495.56 --> 2501.46] Sometimes it can feel overwhelming and hopeless, but we gather on this Gem Sunday in the hope of Jesus Christ. -[2501.46 --> 2531.44] Jesus Christ. -[2531.44 --> 2534.70] Let's learn these five truths about who God is and what he has promised. -[2535.44 --> 2537.62] God is king. -[2538.52 --> 2540.84] The Lord is my God. -[2541.52 --> 2543.90] The great king over all the earth. -[2544.64 --> 2546.72] Psalm 47, verse 2. -[2548.14 --> 2550.44] God is our deliverer. -[2551.94 --> 2553.62] The Lord is my rock. -[2553.94 --> 2556.26] My fortress and my deliverer. -[2556.66 --> 2558.42] My God is my rock. -[2558.42 --> 2560.42] In whom I take refuge. -[2560.42 --> 2563.42] My shield and the horn of my salvation. -[2563.42 --> 2565.50] My strong will. -[2565.50 --> 2568.04] Psalm 18, verse 2. -[2568.04 --> 2571.04] God is trust worthy. -[2571.04 --> 2574.04] He is who he says he is. -[2574.04 --> 2576.86] And he will do what he says he will do. -[2578.12 --> 2581.52] The Lord is trust worthy in all the promises. -[2582.18 --> 2584.32] And faithful in all the dust. -[2584.88 --> 2587.66] Psalm 145, verse 13. -[2587.66 --> 2592.14] God is always at work. -[2592.50 --> 2593.58] He is near. -[2594.12 --> 2597.80] The Lord is near to all who call on him. -[2598.16 --> 2600.06] To all who call on him. -[2601.06 --> 2603.96] Psalm 145, verse 13. -[2605.66 --> 2608.96] God is with you wherever you go. -[2608.96 --> 2611.30] Do not be afraid. -[2611.58 --> 2613.20] Do not be discouraged. -[2613.72 --> 2617.46] For the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. -[2617.88 --> 2619.82] Joshua 1, verse 13. -[2621.22 --> 2626.92] Thanks be to the God of hope who renews our strength so that we can rise up in every circumstance. -[2627.46 --> 2633.28] Stand secure in our faith and have the confidence that when we put our hope in him, we will be okay. -[2633.28 --> 2634.22] No matter what. -[2638.96 --> 2658.94] Tell me the story of the girl without a mother. -[2658.94 --> 2662.38] Of the girl without a father. -[2662.80 --> 2665.22] Who found favor with the king. -[2665.22 --> 2668.84] Tell me again. -[2669.24 --> 2672.30] About how he beheld her beauty. -[2672.58 --> 2675.74] About the way she stepped out bravely. -[2675.94 --> 2678.34] All her life an offering. -[2679.84 --> 2682.64] She fell to her knees. -[2683.76 --> 2686.00] While she begged him, please. -[2686.68 --> 2688.32] To spare my people. -[2688.84 --> 2691.52] Or set them free or king. -[2692.22 --> 2694.08] Give them a merit. -[2694.08 --> 2695.64] To spare belonging. -[2695.64 --> 2698.96] To a kingdom that is coming. -[2699.52 --> 2702.34] With the song they'll keep on singing. -[2702.82 --> 2705.60] With the bells they'll keep on ringing. -[2706.14 --> 2709.08] Oh, I'm swept up in a story. -[2709.50 --> 2711.96] All that I don't want to miss. -[2712.34 --> 2714.94] So I will rise up. -[2714.94 --> 2717.30] For such a time is late. -[2717.30 --> 2718.04] Tell me again. -[2718.04 --> 2726.04] Tell me again. -[2726.04 --> 2729.00] What a god man come from glory. -[2729.00 --> 2732.32] Why they said he had no beauty. -[2732.32 --> 2735.46] He was the flavor of the king. -[2736.84 --> 2738.98] Tell me again. -[2739.22 --> 2742.30] About the way he loved the lonely. -[2742.72 --> 2745.56] Healed the sick and fed the hungry. -[2745.56 --> 2748.52] All his life an offering. -[2748.52 --> 2752.36] He hung on a tree. -[2752.36 --> 2753.72] He cried. -[2753.72 --> 2755.48] Oh, fall and flee. -[2756.48 --> 2758.36] Slay all people. -[2759.12 --> 2760.40] Oh, set them free. -[2762.12 --> 2764.04] Give them a merit. -[2764.04 --> 2768.82] To a kingdom that is coming. -[2768.82 --> 2772.14] It's the song they'll keep on singing. -[2772.58 --> 2775.46] It's the bells they'll keep on ringing. -[2776.00 --> 2779.04] They'll be swept up in a story. -[2779.48 --> 2782.10] Oh, that they don't want to miss. -[2782.42 --> 2784.92] So I will rise up. -[2784.92 --> 2787.34] Oh, such a time is late. -[2789.44 --> 2792.36] Oh, and he is able. -[2792.92 --> 2795.60] We have a place here at the table. -[2796.12 --> 2798.66] Our deliverance has come. -[2798.66 --> 2802.16] His steadfast love will bring us home. -[2802.62 --> 2805.58] He holds all things together. -[2805.96 --> 2808.88] We already have his favor. -[2809.30 --> 2812.32] We'll give honest, surrendered years. -[2812.32 --> 2818.86] Because of all his faithfulness. -[2820.16 --> 2822.26] Tell me a story. -[2822.56 --> 2825.56] About the way I'm loved completely. -[2825.88 --> 2828.88] Because your beauty is my cover. -[2829.22 --> 2831.92] I have a favor of the king. -[2833.50 --> 2835.52] Tell me again. -[2835.90 --> 2839.02] About how I can stand up only. -[2839.02 --> 2842.38] I will heed the things you've told me. -[2842.60 --> 2845.10] And make my life and my soul. -[2845.90 --> 2849.26] So I, oh, so my need. -[2849.52 --> 2852.68] So I, beg your father please. -[2853.02 --> 2855.56] Set all your people free. -[2856.12 --> 2858.74] Help us live what we believe. -[2859.00 --> 2862.26] We have a merit in belonging. -[2862.26 --> 2865.60] To a kingdom that is coming. -[2866.10 --> 2868.76] It's the song we'll keep on singing. -[2869.46 --> 2872.06] It's the bells we'll keep on ringing. -[2872.74 --> 2875.72] We'll be swept up in a story. -[2876.18 --> 2878.72] Oh, do we all want to miss? -[2878.96 --> 2881.52] So we will rise up. -[2881.52 --> 2884.42] Such a time in our place. -[2885.86 --> 2888.98] Oh, we're swept up in a story. -[2888.98 --> 2892.04] All that we don't want to miss. -[2892.38 --> 2894.96] So we will rise up. -[2895.28 --> 2897.82] Such a time in our place. -[2897.82 --> 2901.78] Oh, oh, oh. -[2901.78 --> 2904.54] Oh, oh, oh. -[2904.54 --> 2916.62] All right. -[2916.68 --> 2919.80] The first offering today is for our budget and the needs of our church. -[2919.94 --> 2923.18] The second offering is for the GEMS Ministry of North America. -[2923.28 --> 2929.04] This money is used to run GEMS on a larger scale, to help develop curriculum, to provide -[2929.04 --> 2933.38] staff support for the various clubs, and to help spread the word about GEMS. -[2933.38 --> 2935.14] And to help set up new clubs. -[2935.80 --> 2938.02] So please give generously as God has given to you. -[2938.02 --> 2947.44] From rejected to accepted. -[2947.44 --> 2953.16] From forgotten to remembered. -[2954.16 --> 2958.78] From the victim to the victor. -[2959.60 --> 2962.30] Who we are is not the same. -[2962.30 --> 2964.92] And the changes night and day. -[2964.92 --> 2968.54] No longer orphans. -[2968.54 --> 2970.86] Now sons and daughters. -[2970.86 --> 2973.18] Worthy and wanted. -[2973.72 --> 2975.56] We belong. -[2975.56 --> 2981.18] We are, we are, we are, we are, we are, we are, crowned in dignity. -[2982.18 --> 2986.48] We are, we are, we are, we are, we are, we are, heirs to majesty. -[2986.90 --> 2989.18] We're made for victory. -[2989.56 --> 2995.58] We're given authority to reign like kings and queens. -[2996.24 --> 2997.56] We're royalties. -[2997.56 --> 3005.10] We're royalties. -[3005.10 --> 3006.10] We're royalties. -[3007.10 --> 3011.50] From abandoned to exalted. -[3012.38 --> 3017.02] From so broken to beloved. -[3018.02 --> 3023.54] From the shadows to the light, from the dead brought back to life. -[3023.54 --> 3026.30] Who we are is not the same -[3026.30 --> 3029.18] And the change is man and day -[3029.18 --> 3032.52] No longer orphans -[3032.52 --> 3034.84] Now sons and daughters -[3034.84 --> 3037.20] Worthy and wanted -[3037.20 --> 3040.34] We belong, yeah -[3040.34 --> 3043.06] We are, we are, we are, we are -[3043.06 --> 3045.20] Crown and dignity -[3045.20 --> 3048.50] We are, we are, we are, we are -[3048.50 --> 3050.50] Heirs to majesty -[3050.50 --> 3053.16] We're made for victory -[3053.16 --> 3055.78] We're given authority -[3055.78 --> 3059.72] To reign like kings and queens -[3059.72 --> 3061.56] We're royalty -[3061.56 --> 3064.36] We are, we are, we are, we are -[3064.36 --> 3066.96] We're royalty -[3066.96 --> 3069.86] We are, we are, we are, we are -[3069.86 --> 3075.24] Every lie beneath our feet -[3075.24 --> 3077.82] When we see the way you see -[3077.82 --> 3082.24] We know we're chosen and redeemed -[3082.24 --> 3088.36] We are, we are, we are, we are -[3088.36 --> 3091.02] Renamed, adopted in -[3091.02 --> 3093.44] We are, we are, we are, we are -[3093.44 --> 3096.62] Kings in a kingdom with no end -[3096.62 --> 3098.94] We are, we are, we are, we are -[3098.94 --> 3101.20] Crown and dignity -[3101.20 --> 3104.40] We are, we are, we are, we are, we are -[3104.40 --> 3105.92] We are, we are, we are -[3105.92 --> 3107.76] We are, we are, we are -[3107.76 --> 3110.02] Clean land moves -[3110.02 --> 3112.42] We need authority -[3113.26 --> 3115.60] We are, we are, we are -[3115.60 --> 3116.38] We are, we are, we are -[3116.38 --> 3117.76] Giants of majesty -[3117.76 --> 3119.64] When we are -[3119.64 --> 3121.24] Gottes O person with no end -[3121.24 --> 3121.52] We are -[3121.52 --> 3122.62] We're copying -[3122.62 --> 3123.52] Gerald pens -[3123.52 --> 3124.52] Then we have -[3124.52 --> 3125.58] We are, we are, we are -[3125.58 --> 3126.10] We are, we are, we are -[3126.10 --> 3126.62] We are, we are, we are, we are -[3126.62 --> 3127.14] We are, we are, we are, we are -[3127.14 --> 3127.66] We're everything we are, we are, we are -[3127.66 --> 3129.66] We're all your team -[3129.66 --> 3131.66] We're all your team -[3131.66 --> 3133.66] We're all your team -[3133.66 --> 3135.66] We're all your team -[3135.66 --> 3137.66] We're all your team -[3137.66 --> 3139.66] They say -[3139.66 --> 3141.66] You're the king of everything -[3141.66 --> 3143.66] The one who taught the wind to sing -[3143.66 --> 3145.66] The source of the rhythm -[3145.66 --> 3147.66] My heart keeps beating -[3147.66 --> 3149.66] They say -[3149.66 --> 3151.66] You can give the blind their sight -[3151.66 --> 3153.66] And you can bring the dead to life -[3153.66 --> 3155.66] You can be the hope -[3155.66 --> 3157.66] My soul's been seeking -[3157.66 --> 3159.66] I wanna tell you now that I believe it -[3159.66 --> 3161.66] I wanna tell you now that I believe it -[3161.66 --> 3163.66] I do -[3163.66 --> 3165.66] That you can make me new -[3165.66 --> 3167.66] Oh -[3167.66 --> 3169.66] I'm an empty place -[3169.66 --> 3171.66] I'm an open book -[3171.66 --> 3173.66] Write your story on my heart -[3173.66 --> 3175.66] Come on and make your mark -[3175.66 --> 3177.66] Author of my hope -[3177.66 --> 3179.66] Maker of the stars -[3179.66 --> 3181.66] Let me be your work of art -[3181.66 --> 3183.66] Won't you write your story on my heart -[3183.66 --> 3185.66] Write your story -[3185.66 --> 3187.66] Write your story -[3187.66 --> 3189.66] Write your story -[3189.66 --> 3191.66] Write your story -[3191.66 --> 3193.66] Come on and write your story -[3193.66 --> 3195.66] Come on and write your story -[3195.66 --> 3197.66] I'm an open book -[3197.66 --> 3199.66] I'm an empty place -[3199.66 --> 3201.66] I'm an empty place -[3201.66 --> 3203.66] I'm an empty place -[3203.66 --> 3205.66] I'm an empty place -[3205.66 --> 3207.66] I'm an empty place -[3207.66 --> 3209.66] I'm an empty place -[3209.66 --> 3211.66] We have to have many kids here -[3211.66 --> 3213.66] Who are age 3 up to grade 4 -[3213.66 --> 3215.66] To join us at the front -[3215.66 --> 3217.66] Before we head off to children's worship time -[3217.66 --> 3219.66] In the back -[3219.66 --> 3221.66] And if you're visiting with us -[3221.66 --> 3223.66] And have kids in that age group -[3223.66 --> 3225.66] They're welcome to come up here -[3225.66 --> 3227.66] Or follow us as we leave -[3227.66 --> 3229.66] And join us in our worship together -[3229.66 --> 3231.66] Back in the other rooms -[3231.66 --> 3233.66] Good morning -[3233.66 --> 3235.66] Oh that was nice and loud -[3235.66 --> 3240.66] I'm wondering if you guys can think of anything -[3240.66 --> 3242.66] That you know is real -[3242.66 --> 3244.66] But that you can't see -[3244.66 --> 3249.66] Something you know is real -[3249.66 --> 3251.66] But that you can't see with your eyes -[3251.66 --> 3253.66] Like that might be invisible -[3253.66 --> 3255.66] Something in like in the world -[3255.66 --> 3259.66] We do know Jesus is real, yes -[3259.66 --> 3260.66] And we can't see him -[3260.66 --> 3262.66] But something else -[3262.66 --> 3263.66] Can anyone think of anything? -[3263.66 --> 3265.66] Can anyone think of anything? -[3265.66 --> 3266.66] No? -[3266.66 --> 3267.66] It's a kind of a hard question -[3267.66 --> 3269.66] Okay, I have one -[3269.66 --> 3271.66] What about the wind? -[3271.66 --> 3273.66] Have you ever seen the wind? -[3273.66 --> 3276.66] So how do we know the wind is real -[3276.66 --> 3278.66] If we can't see it? -[3278.66 --> 3279.66] Haley? -[3279.66 --> 3280.66] We can feel it? -[3280.66 --> 3283.66] Yeah, how else can we know the wind is real? -[3285.66 --> 3286.66] You can hear it sometimes -[3286.66 --> 3287.66] If it's really loud -[3287.66 --> 3288.66] It might make a loud noise -[3288.66 --> 3291.66] Yeah, we can see it blowing in the trees -[3291.66 --> 3293.66] Today we're going to -[3293.66 --> 3294.66] In children's worship time -[3294.66 --> 3295.66] We're going to be talking about -[3295.66 --> 3298.66] How sometimes it's hard to believe in things -[3298.66 --> 3299.66] That we can't see -[3299.66 --> 3301.66] And there's a person in the Bible named Thomas -[3301.66 --> 3304.66] And he had a hard time believing something -[3304.66 --> 3305.66] That he couldn't see -[3305.66 --> 3307.66] And we're going to see what we can learn -[3307.66 --> 3308.66] From Jesus -[3308.66 --> 3309.66] About Jesus from that story -[3309.66 --> 3311.66] So we're going to stand up -[3311.66 --> 3313.66] And we're going to have to be nice and loud today -[3313.66 --> 3315.66] Because lots of our big kids aren't here -[3315.66 --> 3316.66] For gems -[3316.66 --> 3317.66] For gems -[3317.66 --> 3318.66] And we're going to do our blessings -[3318.66 --> 3320.66] So I invite everyone to stand up with us -[3320.66 --> 3321.66] While we bless you -[3321.66 --> 3322.66] And receive your blessing -[3322.66 --> 3323.66] And receive your blessing -[3323.66 --> 3325.66] Thank you -[3325.66 --> 3352.60] Good morning, everyone. -[3352.60 --> 3356.34] My name is Ken. I am one of the elders here at Emanuel Church. -[3357.30 --> 3362.04] First off, it's so great seeing all you gems here and all the participation in this service. -[3362.04 --> 3365.52] It's really amazing, the offering and the welcome we got. -[3365.72 --> 3370.22] And the praise team up here is really cool seeing you guys joining in and leading us in worship. -[3370.36 --> 3371.50] So thank you so much for that. -[3372.32 --> 3375.56] Just a couple of announcements I have from the council. -[3376.06 --> 3382.28] We have a council meeting this week, so I ask you to uphold that in prayer as we seek to do God's work in our church council. -[3382.60 --> 3392.50] And it's also entering the last week and day for our nominations for the upcoming new office bearers that we're looking for. -[3392.60 --> 3405.32] So we ask you to continue to prayerfully seek out nominating individuals that you think would be called into that work for our church and for God. -[3405.32 --> 3412.50] And if you yourself are still feeling called as well, please be sure to get those nominations in very shortly. -[3412.68 --> 3419.48] There is a form that should be available at the Connect booth as well as they've been emailed and accessible through our e-bulletin. -[3420.82 --> 3424.28] Additionally, next week, Sunday, we will be celebrating Lord's Supper. -[3424.28 --> 3432.34] So take this week to prepare your hearts and to prepare for gathering together around the Lord's table. -[3433.16 --> 3437.64] So at this point, I'd like to lead us in our time of prayer as a congregation. -[3438.58 --> 3439.34] Let's pray. -[3439.34 --> 3444.94] Lord our God, as we sang this morning, you give life. -[3445.54 --> 3446.16] You are love. -[3446.86 --> 3448.48] You bring light to our darkness. -[3449.38 --> 3450.00] You give hope. -[3450.64 --> 3452.84] And you restore every heart that is broken. -[3453.46 --> 3454.76] Great are you, Lord. -[3455.54 --> 3460.46] We pour out our praise to you this morning, Lord, and humbly bring our requests to you. -[3460.46 --> 3465.34] We praise you, Lord, for the gift of our children who are a heritage from the Lord. -[3465.92 --> 3467.34] We pray for parents. -[3467.78 --> 3470.94] Help us to teach our kids to know you through your word. -[3471.64 --> 3476.12] We thank you for girls everywhere meeting the Savior as we celebrate the gems today. -[3476.88 --> 3482.14] And we praise you, Lord, for the work and dedication of the counselors and ask your blessing on them and their work. -[3483.74 --> 3485.86] Lord, we pray for new young parents. -[3485.86 --> 3489.96] We lift up Joanna and Mike and their two-week-old baby, McKenna. -[3491.04 --> 3495.40] We also pray for those whose life stories include struggles with infertility. -[3495.92 --> 3500.72] Lord, we pray that you bless medical treatments that are being taken for infertility. -[3501.34 --> 3505.12] And we pray for your blessing for those who are on journeys toward adoption. -[3506.52 --> 3512.50] And today, Lord, in addition to Gem Sunday, we get to hear from the Mexico team who returned two weeks ago -[3512.50 --> 3515.56] and will share the work you did in them and through them. -[3516.56 --> 3519.50] May the seeds that were sown and relationships that were cultivated -[3519.50 --> 3521.96] produce a fruitful harvest for your kingdom, Lord. -[3522.96 --> 3528.26] We ask that you work through our missionaries who you have called to go out and spread the gospel. -[3528.90 --> 3535.58] And likewise, Lord, please work through the rest of us who you have called to spread the gospel within our communities at home. -[3535.58 --> 3541.66] Lord, we lift up those in our congregation and those we know with various health concerns. -[3542.44 --> 3543.38] Heal our diseases. -[3544.42 --> 3549.72] We think of Grace Vanderdeen's mom who had an angioplasty done last week, and we pray for her recovery. -[3549.72 --> 3556.26] We also uphold to you, Lord, Matthew and Rachel Skipper and their kids as Rachel's health continues to decline. -[3556.86 --> 3560.60] Lord, we ask for your miraculous healing hand on Rachel and the family. -[3561.70 --> 3567.10] We pray for Kobe DeBoorsap as she's ongoing cancer treatments and is presently at home. -[3567.76 --> 3572.34] Help their young family feel your nearness in this time and bring Kobe healing recovery. -[3572.34 --> 3578.64] We lift up those who have various struggles with mental health, anxiety, and depression. -[3579.18 --> 3583.94] Lord, when we are weary and burdened, draw us to you and you will give us rest. -[3584.62 --> 3592.26] Transform us, Lord, by the renewing of our minds and help us cast all our anxiety on you because you care for us. -[3593.52 --> 3596.24] We pray, too, for those who are in seasons of mourning. -[3596.98 --> 3600.80] We lift up Karen Walker as she mourns the passing of her husband Kevin last week. -[3600.80 --> 3606.38] And we also pray that you give Rosita all she needs to walk alongside her friend Karen in this time. -[3607.56 --> 3615.76] We pray for all who mourn the loss of loved ones, having just celebrated Easter without a loved one for the first time or maybe many times over again. -[3616.70 --> 3626.28] Help the Easter resurrection truth comfort us in knowing that death has lost its sting and been swallowed up in the victory we have in our Lord Jesus Christ. -[3626.28 --> 3631.08] Lord, we pray for our church and ministries here at Emanuel CRC. -[3631.86 --> 3635.32] Bless the work of the staff, volunteers, and council members. -[3635.98 --> 3638.94] Lead them to hear your will and direction for your church. -[3640.00 --> 3643.64] We pray for your hand on the council nomination process that is underway. -[3644.36 --> 3649.16] Stir in the hearts of those you are calling to the noble task of serving your church. -[3649.16 --> 3658.26] We pray for each of us this week as we examine ourselves and prepare our hearts to gather around your table in communion next week. -[3659.46 --> 3666.52] And now, as we open your word and hear your message, we pray that you open the eyes of our hearts, Lord, and help us to see you. -[3667.04 --> 3675.34] Help us not merely listen to the word and so deceive ourselves, but help us to really hear it today and to go out doing what it says. -[3675.34 --> 3680.54] Help us act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God. -[3681.26 --> 3689.34] We pray all these things in your most holy name, not because we're worthy, but because you have allowed us to approach your throne of grace with confidence. -[3689.68 --> 3691.56] In the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior. -[3692.10 --> 3692.36] Amen. -[3705.34 --> 3724.26] As we've already heard, this year the Gems have been taking this theme verse from Isaiah 40, verse 31, sorry, -[3724.62 --> 3732.18] and reading the book of Esther and learning the story of Esther through that lens. -[3732.18 --> 3736.16] So we're going to do the same thing in our time together this morning. -[3736.24 --> 3738.18] So I'm going to begin once again. -[3738.32 --> 3751.80] I'll read Isaiah 40, verse 31, and then we will sort of rehearse the story of Esther through the themes of the five truths that the Gems are looking at. -[3751.88 --> 3762.16] And so allow me to start with Isaiah 40, verse 31, where we read that those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. -[3762.18 --> 3765.52] They will soar on wings like eagles. -[3765.90 --> 3767.92] They will run and not grow weary. -[3768.38 --> 3770.52] They will walk and not be faint. -[3770.98 --> 3772.30] This is the word of the Lord. -[3775.52 --> 3782.58] So you girls, over the course of this year, have been focusing on five truths. -[3782.66 --> 3786.94] Now we've heard them, but I'm going to put them on the screen again so you can see them. -[3786.94 --> 3792.32] And I've also reordered them slightly for the purposes of this telling of the story. -[3793.24 --> 3804.84] But those five truths are God is king, God is trustworthy, God is our deliverer, God is near, and God is with you. -[3804.84 --> 3820.54] As we hear these truths again, and as we look at the story of Esther, I want to challenge you, even as we look at particular characters, -[3820.54 --> 3833.76] to realize that the story that's told here is first and foremost for the purpose of revealing God who is behind the story. -[3833.76 --> 3839.60] But in Esther, that's a particular challenge. -[3840.84 --> 3844.78] Because I don't know how many of you have read the book of Esther recently, -[3845.06 --> 3851.70] but the book of Esther doesn't mention the name God at all. -[3851.70 --> 3858.92] The word God and its various forms of God's names are not used. -[3860.34 --> 3865.12] God is not a character on the surface of the story of Esther. -[3865.60 --> 3872.72] And so how can we learn these truths about who God is from a story that seemingly doesn't even mention him? -[3873.88 --> 3877.84] That's the challenge that's kind of in front of us this morning. -[3877.84 --> 3884.58] Those are the kinds of questions that the story of Esther invites us to ask. -[3886.04 --> 3888.48] Because throughout the whole book, there isn't one mention of God. -[3888.82 --> 3891.12] His name doesn't appear at all. -[3893.28 --> 3895.76] And here's why I think this matters for us this morning. -[3896.94 --> 3903.26] Because it's so easy in our own lives and in our own stories, right, to not see God. -[3904.40 --> 3906.46] And to not know where he is. -[3907.84 --> 3910.66] And to not be sure if he's even in the mix at all. -[3912.18 --> 3917.00] Esther starts equipping us to understand how he might be. -[3918.90 --> 3922.12] Now the book of Esther tells us a particular story. -[3922.22 --> 3926.34] And I want to walk you through that story for those of you who aren't as familiar with it. -[3927.12 --> 3932.84] The book of Esther tells the story of the people of God who have been taken into exile. -[3933.12 --> 3935.90] And they are now in the Persian Empire. -[3935.90 --> 3941.68] This is taking place in a city called Susa, which is one of the capitals of the empire at the time. -[3942.42 --> 3948.30] And so real quick, after the people leave Egypt, they spent 400 years there in slavery. -[3948.44 --> 3949.88] Then you get the story of the Exodus. -[3950.26 --> 3953.04] And they cross the Red Sea, the Ten Commandments. -[3953.10 --> 3956.44] And then they end up wandering in the wilderness for 40 years. -[3956.44 --> 3960.02] After 40 years, they enter the land. -[3960.70 --> 3962.18] They take possession of it. -[3962.18 --> 3967.02] They didn't push out the people as they were commanded to. -[3967.24 --> 3975.74] And so throughout the next hundreds of years, there's a conflict that continues, that exists. -[3975.84 --> 3978.34] And it's a conflict of nations and of peoples. -[3978.34 --> 3987.32] But also, there's a conflict that exists within the nation of Israel, that exists within the hearts of the people who live there, -[3987.40 --> 3990.68] about whether or not they will follow God's ways. -[3991.98 --> 4000.18] In the time of the judges and in the time of the kings, there's a few examples of people doing right and of leaders doing right. -[4000.18 --> 4004.84] But by and large, what is happening is people are doing what's right in their own eyes. -[4005.50 --> 4011.16] People are compromising and they're not living faithfully in relationship to God. -[4012.08 --> 4020.42] And so, because of that, God allows his people to be taken into exile in Babylon and Persia. -[4020.98 --> 4026.62] The story of Esther happens in the middle of this exile story, -[4026.62 --> 4029.74] in the middle of the people being carried away in captivity. -[4030.18 --> 4037.22] And so in terms of the whole Bible, for a very short period, the location focus shifts. -[4038.38 --> 4040.64] It's kind of a story within a story. -[4041.50 --> 4047.34] And because of that, Esther offers for us a really unique perspective to reflect on, -[4047.50 --> 4050.82] and a really unique way of seeing God at work in the world. -[4052.28 --> 4056.62] The Persian Empire stretched from India to Ethiopia. -[4056.62 --> 4064.98] And the story begins when Xerxes, who is king, summons his queen, Vashti, -[4065.48 --> 4069.96] to appear before his officials and to show her beauty. -[4071.08 --> 4075.88] Now Vashti does the unthinkable and she defies the king. -[4075.88 --> 4082.22] Right, the king, who's powerful in the world, cannot rule his own home. -[4082.94 --> 4086.88] And so if you read the story, he becomes humiliated and angry. -[4087.24 --> 4092.30] He listens to some counselors that he has and he deposes Vashti from her throne. -[4092.30 --> 4098.64] And he issues a decree that throughout the empire, all women should honor their husbands. -[4100.34 --> 4103.88] So he was a scorned man by his wife. -[4104.80 --> 4106.88] And then again, the location shifts. -[4107.68 --> 4112.40] After the power and the pride of the king are revealed to the readers, -[4112.66 --> 4115.90] the main characters of the story, as it will continue, are introduced. -[4115.90 --> 4122.10] We meet a woman named Hadassah, who is also called Esther. -[4122.88 --> 4127.86] She's a Jewish woman living outside the realm of the Jews -[4127.86 --> 4130.72] because she was part of the people carried into exile, -[4130.96 --> 4133.86] and her uncle named Mordecai. -[4135.10 --> 4140.10] Now Mordecai tells her not to reveal to the king and to the council -[4140.10 --> 4143.70] that she is Jewish because the king, in looking for a new wife, -[4143.76 --> 4150.04] has called for a beauty contest that he might find a new wife, -[4150.04 --> 4153.06] or at least another one to add to his collection of wives. -[4156.02 --> 4163.78] And throughout the immediate events of a seemingly random story, -[4163.78 --> 4169.50] a plot is actually being skillfully crafted. -[4170.10 --> 4177.04] And by chapter 3, the plot thickens with the introduction of a man named Haman. -[4178.26 --> 4184.02] Now Haman is promoted to effectively like prime minister in the king's court, right? -[4184.08 --> 4186.62] And an honor that in the story, as you're reading it, -[4186.66 --> 4190.10] you might expect to go to Mordecai, but it doesn't. -[4191.80 --> 4194.50] So if chapter 2, when we read these first characters, -[4194.68 --> 4198.66] raises the question about where, whether or not Jews can live in a foreign land -[4198.66 --> 4204.76] and how they might, chapter 3 in the raising of Haman brings this tension to a head. -[4205.42 --> 4210.30] Haman is described in chapter 3 as an agagite, -[4211.16 --> 4216.50] which is a term that scholars have argued connects him back to the Amalekites, -[4216.96 --> 4220.78] which is the historic enemy of Israel from the time of the Exodus. -[4220.78 --> 4226.64] When Israel left the Exodus, they were harried and had to fight the Amalekites all along. -[4226.74 --> 4230.56] And all throughout Israel's history, the Amalekites are a thorn in their side. -[4230.66 --> 4237.08] And so they become representative of all the enemies that they face. -[4237.44 --> 4241.78] And so here is Haman connected to the Amalekites, an enemy of Israel. -[4241.78 --> 4250.86] Haman gets angry and boils over because Mordecai refused to bow down in his presence. -[4251.96 --> 4256.88] So Mordecai is doing to Haman, in a sense, what Vashti first did to Xerxes. -[4257.34 --> 4261.94] And as a result, Haman turns his wrath not just against Mordecai, -[4262.08 --> 4265.16] but against all of the Jews, all of the people of God. -[4265.16 --> 4272.82] And so you have this man who represents the historic enmity towards God's people, -[4273.56 --> 4278.72] and he brings that enmity on the whole of the people who are in exile -[4278.72 --> 4284.50] by casting lots, throwing dice to determine how he will destroy them. -[4286.26 --> 4290.66] Now, Haman plots and fools the king into following along with this plan, -[4290.66 --> 4293.94] but the king doesn't yet realize that by doing so, -[4293.94 --> 4296.74] he's going to end up killing his new wife. -[4298.20 --> 4304.12] And as the edict to destroy the people of God goes out and around Susa and around the empire, -[4304.90 --> 4306.74] Mordecai tears his clothes. -[4308.12 --> 4310.96] He puts on traditional mourning sackcloth and ashes, -[4311.16 --> 4317.22] and he goes to Esther, who's now in the queen's court, -[4317.66 --> 4321.70] living there in the home of the king. -[4321.70 --> 4327.98] And he tells her that she has a responsibility for her people, -[4328.20 --> 4331.56] a responsibility to protect them and to speak to the king. -[4332.22 --> 4336.20] And Esther says, if I go speak to the king, unbidden by him, -[4336.34 --> 4340.00] if I go without him asking me to come, he will kill me. -[4340.52 --> 4341.34] That's what he does. -[4341.34 --> 4346.36] And Mordecai says, you will be killed regardless. -[4347.66 --> 4348.36] You are Jewish. -[4348.52 --> 4350.10] You can't keep that secret forever. -[4350.50 --> 4354.30] Either you will die in the throne room or with the rest of your people. -[4354.30 --> 4357.56] But maybe you can save us all. -[4357.56 --> 4360.80] And then Mordecai says, -[4360.80 --> 4363.64] for if you remain silent at this time, -[4364.00 --> 4367.40] relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, -[4367.94 --> 4371.12] but you and your father's family will perish. -[4372.50 --> 4376.64] Now, interestingly, this is the one place in the story -[4376.64 --> 4382.06] where it seems that there's even a veiled reference to God, right? -[4382.06 --> 4385.50] That deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place. -[4385.60 --> 4388.70] And so scholars have debated, is this, is they talking about God? -[4388.74 --> 4390.40] Because God is deliverer. -[4390.42 --> 4392.40] That's a word that's regularly used about him. -[4392.42 --> 4394.38] But again, he's just not mentioned. -[4395.96 --> 4397.56] And it continues to debate. -[4397.66 --> 4400.50] It's a vague reference at best, -[4400.50 --> 4407.00] but perhaps all Mordecai knows is that God will protect his people. -[4407.56 --> 4411.64] He doesn't know how or where or if or when, -[4412.36 --> 4414.76] just that he has. -[4415.82 --> 4418.38] And then Mordecai adds his own reference. -[4418.54 --> 4420.20] He says, and who knows, -[4420.66 --> 4425.68] but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this. -[4425.68 --> 4433.76] And that is the line from the story of Esther that people hang on to, right? -[4433.84 --> 4436.64] For such a time as this. -[4437.88 --> 4440.36] Maybe everything that's happened to you -[4440.36 --> 4443.06] was so that you could be right here, -[4444.12 --> 4446.52] right now, in this moment, -[4446.88 --> 4449.42] able to save all of these lives. -[4449.52 --> 4451.44] Maybe every struggle and every worry, -[4451.44 --> 4456.46] every fight was to prepare you for this battle. -[4456.98 --> 4460.12] Maybe every tear, every hurt, every pain -[4460.12 --> 4463.70] was in order to get you to this place. -[4464.60 --> 4466.58] Maybe every seeming failure, -[4466.98 --> 4469.02] every time it just didn't work out, -[4469.12 --> 4471.48] every setback was to make sure -[4471.48 --> 4475.00] that you wouldn't miss this opportunity. -[4476.50 --> 4477.92] And I want to suggest to you -[4477.92 --> 4480.42] that this is why we have the book of Esther. -[4481.44 --> 4482.76] To think like that. -[4483.06 --> 4484.22] To ask these questions. -[4485.06 --> 4486.18] Because it's still true -[4486.18 --> 4490.30] that the Bible reveals the action of God in history. -[4490.46 --> 4493.58] And that the Bible is the true story of the whole world. -[4493.66 --> 4495.62] And the Bible is teaching us about the nature -[4495.62 --> 4497.22] and the character of God. -[4497.56 --> 4499.24] And Esther is now, -[4499.46 --> 4502.92] the story of Esther is broadening our understanding -[4502.92 --> 4507.88] to include times even when God doesn't seem present. -[4508.00 --> 4510.26] Even when we don't acknowledge God, -[4510.26 --> 4512.04] He's still working. -[4512.04 --> 4515.02] He's still making His will come about. -[4516.28 --> 4517.82] Or more pointedly, -[4518.46 --> 4522.66] even when we refuse to name His presence, -[4523.54 --> 4524.88] He is still present. -[4526.64 --> 4530.84] Even when we can't see the main action, -[4531.04 --> 4533.58] we can know because of stories like Esther -[4533.58 --> 4535.72] that God is the main actor. -[4535.72 --> 4539.02] Even when things seem to be going wrong -[4539.02 --> 4542.38] and life is just hanging in this tenuous balance, -[4542.84 --> 4544.24] God is still present -[4544.24 --> 4548.94] and guiding His history for His glory. -[4548.94 --> 4554.22] And that's because God is king. -[4554.58 --> 4558.84] That's the first truth that the gems have been looking at. -[4558.90 --> 4561.48] And the story of Esther isn't just a contest -[4561.48 --> 4563.66] between Xerxes and the people of God. -[4563.72 --> 4566.16] This is a contest of kings. -[4566.72 --> 4570.08] Xerxes and the true king of God's people -[4570.08 --> 4570.90] and of the world. -[4570.90 --> 4573.08] And so in this story, -[4573.50 --> 4575.72] who is it that orchestrated the exile -[4575.72 --> 4577.24] to take place in the first place? -[4578.44 --> 4579.04] God did. -[4580.14 --> 4583.26] God orchestrated that Hadassah, Esther, -[4583.62 --> 4585.30] would be in the right place -[4585.30 --> 4587.24] at the right time for her people. -[4587.90 --> 4588.74] God did that. -[4590.20 --> 4593.54] Kings in this world rule cities and empires. -[4593.54 --> 4596.06] God is king of this world. -[4596.82 --> 4597.64] He rules it all. -[4598.58 --> 4600.34] Nothing happens without His will -[4600.34 --> 4601.60] and without His purpose. -[4603.04 --> 4605.42] And because God is king, -[4606.06 --> 4608.54] even when you can't see Him, -[4609.42 --> 4611.48] His action, His reign, -[4611.74 --> 4613.40] is happening all around you. -[4613.90 --> 4616.44] History is the servant of God. -[4616.54 --> 4618.72] It moves at His direction. -[4618.90 --> 4621.06] That's what it means that God is king. -[4621.06 --> 4624.66] In fact, -[4626.22 --> 4631.66] only if God is king -[4631.66 --> 4634.92] does any of this, -[4635.22 --> 4636.38] the story in Esther, -[4636.48 --> 4637.28] but also this, -[4637.40 --> 4640.12] any of this make sense. -[4641.26 --> 4642.08] What I mean is that -[4642.08 --> 4645.00] only if God is king -[4645.00 --> 4647.26] can any of our life -[4647.26 --> 4648.50] and our doing -[4648.50 --> 4650.62] and our activity have purpose. -[4650.62 --> 4652.78] Only if God is king -[4652.78 --> 4654.64] can any of your suffering -[4654.64 --> 4656.06] or your struggling -[4656.06 --> 4658.06] or the hardships that you face -[4658.06 --> 4659.74] have a meaning behind them. -[4660.46 --> 4662.06] If God isn't king, -[4662.24 --> 4663.46] if God isn't sovereign, -[4663.66 --> 4665.22] if He isn't in control -[4665.22 --> 4667.06] of history -[4667.06 --> 4668.56] and of everything that happens -[4668.56 --> 4669.50] in this world, -[4669.66 --> 4672.80] that means you can never be sure, -[4673.44 --> 4674.92] you can never have any confidence -[4674.92 --> 4677.46] that what you are facing in life -[4677.46 --> 4679.08] or that what you are doing in life -[4679.08 --> 4681.52] has any purpose at all, -[4682.74 --> 4682.88] right, -[4682.90 --> 4684.44] or that any of it is part of a plan. -[4685.10 --> 4686.04] At best, -[4686.44 --> 4687.54] if God isn't king, -[4687.68 --> 4689.00] it's just a guessing game. -[4691.10 --> 4692.80] You can never be sure -[4692.80 --> 4695.32] that what happens to you -[4695.32 --> 4698.02] is meaningful. -[4698.02 --> 4701.70] The only thing you can be sure of, -[4701.76 --> 4702.14] actually, -[4702.14 --> 4704.00] is that it might be meaningless. -[4704.90 --> 4706.40] It might all be purposeless. -[4707.56 --> 4709.40] And, honestly, -[4710.14 --> 4712.42] if any of our struggle -[4712.42 --> 4713.22] is meaningless, -[4713.76 --> 4715.20] if any of the things -[4715.20 --> 4716.40] that we face in this life -[4716.40 --> 4717.30] are meaningless, -[4718.46 --> 4721.84] why even bother doing life? -[4722.66 --> 4724.02] Why even bother enduring? -[4724.02 --> 4724.58] But, -[4724.58 --> 4728.22] what Esther is saying -[4728.22 --> 4730.56] is that God is king. -[4731.20 --> 4732.28] God is king. -[4732.40 --> 4733.80] He does have a purpose -[4733.80 --> 4734.96] and He does have a plan. -[4735.26 --> 4735.56] And yet, -[4735.70 --> 4736.90] you may not see it. -[4738.40 --> 4739.86] You may not even see Him. -[4741.02 --> 4742.06] But, like Esther, -[4742.56 --> 4743.66] you can know -[4743.66 --> 4745.02] that He's done it. -[4745.74 --> 4746.60] You can know -[4746.60 --> 4748.42] that He has a plan, -[4748.50 --> 4749.84] that He has a purpose. -[4749.96 --> 4750.52] Like Esther, -[4750.52 --> 4751.52] you can know -[4751.52 --> 4752.66] that someone, -[4753.44 --> 4755.18] that He is somewhere. -[4756.02 --> 4756.70] That someone, -[4756.96 --> 4757.68] namely God, -[4757.76 --> 4759.20] is in control. -[4759.34 --> 4760.24] And, like Esther, -[4761.12 --> 4762.08] you can trust Him. -[4763.12 --> 4764.32] That's the second truth -[4764.32 --> 4765.66] of this story, -[4765.70 --> 4767.26] that God is trustworthy. -[4767.52 --> 4768.72] And it comes immediately -[4768.72 --> 4769.62] out of the fact -[4769.62 --> 4770.46] that God is king. -[4771.42 --> 4772.84] And it comes out of the fact -[4772.84 --> 4773.80] that He is holy -[4773.80 --> 4774.56] and good -[4774.56 --> 4775.74] and beautiful. -[4776.58 --> 4777.22] That God is, -[4777.44 --> 4778.62] the Latin phrase is, -[4778.72 --> 4779.76] the sunum bonum, -[4779.76 --> 4781.30] the ultimate good, -[4781.42 --> 4782.28] the ultimate true, -[4782.40 --> 4783.40] the ultimate beautiful. -[4784.00 --> 4784.96] And over and over -[4784.96 --> 4785.70] and over again -[4785.70 --> 4786.32] in the Bible, -[4786.60 --> 4788.14] we read how God -[4788.14 --> 4789.76] remembers His people. -[4790.46 --> 4791.36] We read how God -[4791.36 --> 4792.16] comes alongside -[4792.16 --> 4793.30] of His people. -[4793.44 --> 4794.24] We read how God -[4794.24 --> 4795.44] hears His people -[4795.44 --> 4796.96] when they cry out to Him. -[4797.22 --> 4798.64] Even when His people -[4798.64 --> 4799.58] do what is right -[4799.58 --> 4800.50] in their own eyes. -[4800.64 --> 4801.90] Even when they are -[4801.90 --> 4803.10] more ruled by sin -[4803.10 --> 4804.18] than they are by Him. -[4804.54 --> 4806.04] Even in these moments, -[4806.18 --> 4807.76] God never forgets -[4807.76 --> 4809.86] His people -[4809.86 --> 4811.94] because that's who He is. -[4812.94 --> 4813.70] And that's why -[4813.70 --> 4814.32] He's trustworthy. -[4816.44 --> 4817.38] Now, I want to illustrate -[4817.38 --> 4818.04] this point. -[4818.56 --> 4819.10] And to do that, -[4819.12 --> 4819.44] I'm going to need -[4819.44 --> 4820.14] a couple volunteers. -[4821.04 --> 4821.80] So I'm going to need -[4821.80 --> 4823.30] one GEMS girl -[4823.30 --> 4825.24] to come to the front. -[4827.04 --> 4828.08] Someone who hasn't been -[4828.08 --> 4829.28] on stage yet this morning. -[4830.04 --> 4831.16] Amara, you want to come up? -[4831.58 --> 4832.10] Thank you. -[4832.10 --> 4833.18] And then I need -[4833.18 --> 4834.54] four counselors. -[4836.56 --> 4838.14] Four GEMS counselors. -[4841.88 --> 4842.20] Counselors, -[4842.26 --> 4842.74] if you come up -[4842.74 --> 4843.12] to the front, -[4843.20 --> 4843.96] you don't have to come -[4843.96 --> 4844.56] on stage. -[4844.70 --> 4845.38] Amara does. -[4847.38 --> 4847.66] Two. -[4847.80 --> 4848.64] Hey, there we go. -[4850.46 --> 4851.00] Very good. -[4851.04 --> 4851.60] Let's thank them -[4851.60 --> 4852.14] for coming up -[4852.14 --> 4852.56] to the front. -[4853.88 --> 4854.24] Awesome. -[4854.78 --> 4855.14] All right. -[4856.10 --> 4856.94] I need two of you -[4856.94 --> 4857.38] on this side -[4857.38 --> 4857.84] and two of you -[4857.84 --> 4858.44] on this side. -[4859.10 --> 4859.72] Amara, you need to stand -[4859.72 --> 4860.34] right on the edge. -[4861.04 --> 4861.52] Turn around. -[4861.52 --> 4864.16] Put your hands -[4864.16 --> 4864.52] in the air. -[4866.40 --> 4867.08] Look at me. -[4868.16 --> 4868.94] Fall backwards. -[4870.68 --> 4871.98] You should see her face. -[4872.30 --> 4873.18] Her face literally -[4873.18 --> 4874.52] just like went ghost white. -[4876.44 --> 4876.80] No? -[4877.00 --> 4877.20] Okay. -[4877.42 --> 4878.10] Courtney, tell her -[4878.10 --> 4878.38] you're there. -[4881.42 --> 4882.96] No, we don't want -[4882.96 --> 4883.42] to do that. -[4884.18 --> 4884.78] You want to try? -[4885.00 --> 4885.74] They're behind you. -[4885.88 --> 4886.34] You can hear them. -[4886.52 --> 4886.80] Hear them. -[4887.42 --> 4887.60] Oh. -[4889.40 --> 4889.92] Hear them. -[4891.12 --> 4891.46] Hey. -[4891.52 --> 4893.94] Good job. -[4894.56 --> 4895.38] Thank you. -[4899.54 --> 4900.06] Okay. -[4900.26 --> 4901.80] Really simple illustration. -[4902.68 --> 4902.88] Right? -[4903.46 --> 4904.78] She couldn't see -[4904.78 --> 4906.96] the people behind her. -[4906.96 --> 4910.46] She couldn't be sure, -[4910.84 --> 4911.88] at least with her own eyes, -[4912.02 --> 4912.70] that they were there. -[4913.92 --> 4915.08] But she could hear them. -[4916.20 --> 4917.72] She could hear their word -[4917.72 --> 4918.60] to her -[4918.60 --> 4919.32] that says, -[4919.46 --> 4919.80] we're here. -[4920.60 --> 4921.84] And she could trust that. -[4923.44 --> 4924.10] And so, -[4924.32 --> 4924.90] like Esther, -[4925.00 --> 4926.26] who couldn't see God, -[4927.26 --> 4927.54] right, -[4927.66 --> 4929.28] she could hear his word, -[4929.78 --> 4930.76] the story that she had been -[4930.76 --> 4931.68] raised on and told -[4931.68 --> 4932.54] over and over -[4932.54 --> 4933.36] and over again, -[4933.36 --> 4934.70] and she could fall -[4934.70 --> 4935.70] back into him, -[4936.80 --> 4937.28] trusting -[4937.28 --> 4939.34] that he is there -[4939.34 --> 4940.72] to catch her. -[4941.52 --> 4942.78] But not only that, -[4943.02 --> 4943.28] girls, -[4943.44 --> 4944.52] your theme for the year -[4944.52 --> 4946.26] is to find his rise up, -[4947.12 --> 4947.36] right, -[4947.44 --> 4949.66] that God will lift you up, -[4949.74 --> 4950.60] he will be the one -[4950.60 --> 4951.54] to cause you to soar. -[4951.78 --> 4952.84] As you fall back -[4952.84 --> 4953.46] into him -[4953.46 --> 4955.30] and they catch you, -[4956.00 --> 4957.24] they can lift you up. -[4957.24 --> 4959.44] But that's what God -[4959.44 --> 4961.00] does with his word -[4961.00 --> 4961.94] and with his people -[4961.94 --> 4963.04] in our lives -[4963.04 --> 4964.34] as we trust in him. -[4964.62 --> 4965.66] He reveals himself -[4965.66 --> 4966.32] to us -[4966.32 --> 4967.70] through them. -[4968.42 --> 4968.66] And so, -[4968.74 --> 4969.56] Gems Counselors, -[4969.86 --> 4971.26] you are a revelation -[4971.26 --> 4971.86] of God -[4971.86 --> 4972.40] to these girls. -[4973.84 --> 4974.54] That's what you do. -[4975.00 --> 4976.78] You are teaching them -[4976.78 --> 4977.96] the voice of God -[4977.96 --> 4979.18] and the presence of God -[4979.18 --> 4981.00] so that they can trust him. -[4982.24 --> 4982.76] Girls, -[4983.58 --> 4984.76] that's what these other women -[4984.76 --> 4986.08] are to you, -[4986.78 --> 4987.04] right, -[4987.04 --> 4988.02] the voice of God -[4988.02 --> 4988.68] to each other -[4988.68 --> 4989.66] and you -[4989.66 --> 4990.84] to your friends, -[4991.62 --> 4991.88] right, -[4991.92 --> 4992.70] and to your family, -[4992.84 --> 4993.74] the voice of God -[4993.74 --> 4994.76] to trust him -[4994.76 --> 4995.48] and to know -[4995.48 --> 4996.18] that he is there. -[4996.78 --> 4997.20] And really, -[4997.28 --> 4998.30] that's a microcosm -[4998.30 --> 4999.14] of all of us, -[4999.80 --> 4999.92] right, -[4999.96 --> 5001.34] this is all of us -[5001.34 --> 5002.40] who are here -[5002.40 --> 5004.96] to be the revelation -[5004.96 --> 5005.68] of God -[5005.68 --> 5006.40] to each other. -[5006.60 --> 5008.18] As we hold up his word, -[5008.72 --> 5010.02] as we speak that -[5010.02 --> 5010.76] to each other, -[5010.96 --> 5012.20] we reveal God -[5012.20 --> 5012.90] as king -[5012.90 --> 5014.62] and as trustworthy. -[5016.12 --> 5016.58] We can follow -[5016.58 --> 5017.48] and fall back -[5017.48 --> 5019.08] into the arms -[5019.08 --> 5019.70] of God -[5019.70 --> 5020.40] so that he -[5020.40 --> 5022.94] can raise us up. -[5024.98 --> 5025.84] Mordecai said -[5025.84 --> 5027.10] to Esther, -[5027.26 --> 5028.36] relief and deliverance -[5028.36 --> 5029.02] for the Jews -[5029.02 --> 5030.08] may arise -[5030.08 --> 5031.06] from another place, -[5032.14 --> 5033.04] but maybe -[5033.04 --> 5034.38] for such a time -[5034.38 --> 5035.00] as this, -[5035.48 --> 5036.40] you are the one -[5036.40 --> 5037.02] through whom -[5037.02 --> 5038.06] it will rise. -[5038.46 --> 5039.72] And that's the third truth -[5039.72 --> 5040.30] then, -[5040.40 --> 5041.44] that coming out -[5041.44 --> 5042.34] of God as king -[5042.34 --> 5043.40] and him being trustworthy -[5043.40 --> 5044.78] is that God -[5044.78 --> 5047.02] is our deliverer. -[5048.82 --> 5048.96] Right, -[5049.04 --> 5049.66] Mordecai knew -[5049.66 --> 5051.68] enough of his own story, -[5051.86 --> 5052.66] he knew enough -[5052.66 --> 5053.24] of the stories -[5053.24 --> 5053.70] of faith -[5053.70 --> 5054.92] from his upbringing -[5054.92 --> 5055.96] to trust -[5055.96 --> 5056.72] and to believe -[5056.72 --> 5057.40] that God -[5057.40 --> 5058.62] is his deliverer. -[5058.92 --> 5059.58] And that's again -[5059.58 --> 5060.42] why we do -[5060.42 --> 5061.18] what we do here -[5061.18 --> 5061.82] every week. -[5062.28 --> 5063.46] To hear this story -[5063.46 --> 5064.34] over and over -[5064.34 --> 5065.18] and over again -[5065.18 --> 5066.04] so it takes root -[5066.04 --> 5067.50] deep within us. -[5068.04 --> 5068.92] And then we model it -[5068.92 --> 5069.68] and we practice it -[5069.68 --> 5070.18] in gems -[5070.18 --> 5071.32] and in other places -[5071.32 --> 5072.20] and in care groups -[5072.20 --> 5073.40] and coming together -[5073.40 --> 5074.94] and in our own crises -[5074.94 --> 5076.10] and moments of trial -[5076.10 --> 5076.72] and pain -[5076.72 --> 5078.20] we hear this promise -[5078.20 --> 5079.12] that God -[5079.12 --> 5081.24] is our deliverer. -[5085.32 --> 5086.44] Now the fact -[5086.44 --> 5088.26] that this is true -[5088.26 --> 5089.66] is seen -[5089.66 --> 5093.40] if mysteriously -[5093.40 --> 5094.82] and behind the scenes -[5094.82 --> 5096.00] in the story of Esther. -[5097.14 --> 5097.82] But it's seen -[5097.82 --> 5099.12] most evidently -[5099.12 --> 5100.14] and most clearly -[5100.14 --> 5101.48] in another person -[5101.48 --> 5102.32] in history. -[5103.28 --> 5104.12] And like Esther -[5104.12 --> 5104.98] this person -[5104.98 --> 5106.24] intervened -[5106.24 --> 5108.04] in humanity's struggles -[5108.04 --> 5109.70] under constant threat -[5109.70 --> 5110.22] of death. -[5111.04 --> 5111.94] And like Esther -[5111.94 --> 5112.60] this person -[5112.60 --> 5113.82] accepted the reality -[5113.82 --> 5116.80] and possibility -[5116.80 --> 5117.64] of death -[5117.64 --> 5119.44] and still went forward -[5119.44 --> 5121.28] as God's means -[5121.28 --> 5122.42] of deliverance -[5122.42 --> 5123.70] as his agent -[5123.70 --> 5124.56] of redemption. -[5125.74 --> 5126.86] But unlike Esther -[5126.86 --> 5127.64] this man -[5127.64 --> 5128.36] whom we know -[5128.36 --> 5129.16] as Jesus -[5129.16 --> 5130.32] the Messiah -[5130.32 --> 5130.94] of Israel -[5130.94 --> 5131.50] the Savior -[5131.50 --> 5132.16] of the world -[5132.16 --> 5132.98] this man -[5132.98 --> 5134.38] did go all the way -[5134.38 --> 5135.22] to death -[5135.22 --> 5137.12] to bring his deliverance. -[5137.78 --> 5138.56] Paul says -[5138.56 --> 5140.12] in Romans 5 -[5140.12 --> 5141.88] he says -[5141.88 --> 5142.44] you see -[5142.44 --> 5142.46] you see -[5142.46 --> 5143.84] at just the right -[5143.84 --> 5144.50] time -[5144.50 --> 5146.10] when we were -[5146.10 --> 5146.92] still powerless -[5146.92 --> 5147.92] Christ died -[5147.92 --> 5148.96] for the ungodly. -[5149.76 --> 5150.40] Very rarely -[5150.40 --> 5151.16] will anyone die -[5151.16 --> 5152.26] for a righteous man -[5152.26 --> 5152.88] though -[5152.88 --> 5154.06] for a good man -[5154.06 --> 5154.74] someone might -[5154.74 --> 5155.96] possibly dare to die -[5155.96 --> 5156.82] but God -[5156.82 --> 5157.38] demonstrates -[5157.38 --> 5158.38] his own love -[5158.38 --> 5158.88] for us -[5158.88 --> 5159.32] in this -[5159.32 --> 5160.26] while we were -[5160.26 --> 5160.98] still sinners -[5160.98 --> 5162.38] Christ died -[5162.38 --> 5163.38] for us. -[5164.94 --> 5165.78] Did you catch that? -[5166.16 --> 5166.30] Right? -[5166.36 --> 5167.46] At just the right -[5167.46 --> 5168.16] time. -[5169.22 --> 5170.56] At just the right time. -[5170.56 --> 5171.76] Things couldn't get -[5171.76 --> 5172.34] any worse -[5172.34 --> 5173.50] for God's people -[5173.50 --> 5174.16] at this time -[5174.16 --> 5174.60] in history. -[5174.90 --> 5175.54] It's like -[5175.54 --> 5176.90] in the time -[5176.90 --> 5177.36] of Esther -[5177.36 --> 5177.70] again. -[5177.88 --> 5178.46] This time -[5178.46 --> 5178.88] in history -[5178.88 --> 5179.46] is horrible -[5179.46 --> 5179.92] for them. -[5180.26 --> 5180.32] Right? -[5180.42 --> 5181.00] Humanity -[5181.00 --> 5181.78] is behaving -[5181.78 --> 5182.54] vilely. -[5182.82 --> 5183.64] Roman rule -[5183.64 --> 5184.52] has overtaken -[5184.52 --> 5185.38] godly rule. -[5185.74 --> 5186.90] Roman sympathizers -[5186.90 --> 5187.46] are sitting -[5187.46 --> 5188.26] on the throne -[5188.26 --> 5189.16] as Jewish -[5189.16 --> 5189.96] puppet kings. -[5190.56 --> 5192.04] And in all honesty -[5192.04 --> 5192.48] right? -[5192.58 --> 5192.70] Like -[5192.70 --> 5194.72] things are horrible -[5194.72 --> 5196.10] in the world -[5196.10 --> 5196.96] and yet -[5196.96 --> 5198.82] at just -[5198.82 --> 5199.72] the right -[5199.72 --> 5200.76] time. -[5202.22 --> 5202.86] Perhaps -[5202.86 --> 5203.48] for such -[5203.48 --> 5204.14] a time -[5204.14 --> 5205.30] as this. -[5206.32 --> 5206.76] Nothing -[5206.76 --> 5207.48] seems to be -[5207.48 --> 5208.04] adding up -[5208.04 --> 5208.68] nothing seems -[5208.68 --> 5209.56] to be making sense -[5209.56 --> 5210.54] at just -[5210.54 --> 5211.24] the right -[5211.24 --> 5212.10] time. -[5212.90 --> 5213.58] God seems -[5213.58 --> 5214.14] to have forgotten -[5214.14 --> 5214.78] his people -[5214.78 --> 5215.56] he seems -[5215.56 --> 5216.02] distant -[5216.02 --> 5217.76] or uninvolved -[5217.76 --> 5218.80] but he's not -[5218.80 --> 5219.50] because it's -[5219.50 --> 5219.86] just -[5219.86 --> 5220.64] the right -[5220.64 --> 5221.44] time. -[5222.40 --> 5222.50] Right? -[5222.58 --> 5223.18] God came -[5223.18 --> 5223.74] in Jesus -[5223.74 --> 5224.34] to live -[5224.34 --> 5224.80] the life -[5224.80 --> 5225.06] that we -[5225.06 --> 5225.46] were called -[5225.46 --> 5225.94] to live -[5225.94 --> 5226.62] at just -[5226.62 --> 5227.04] the right -[5227.04 --> 5227.60] time -[5227.60 --> 5227.84] and he -[5227.84 --> 5228.14] came -[5228.14 --> 5228.58] in Jesus -[5228.58 --> 5229.04] to die -[5229.04 --> 5229.48] the death -[5229.48 --> 5229.84] that we -[5229.84 --> 5230.48] deserve -[5230.48 --> 5231.06] at just -[5231.06 --> 5231.64] the right -[5231.64 --> 5232.36] time. -[5234.36 --> 5235.10] And who -[5235.10 --> 5235.56] knows -[5235.56 --> 5237.00] but that -[5237.00 --> 5237.80] you have -[5237.80 --> 5238.22] come -[5238.22 --> 5239.08] to royal -[5239.08 --> 5239.58] position -[5239.58 --> 5240.76] for such -[5240.76 --> 5241.42] a time -[5241.42 --> 5242.60] as this. -[5243.44 --> 5243.54] Right? -[5243.58 --> 5244.32] Esther teaches -[5244.32 --> 5245.10] us that God -[5245.10 --> 5246.24] is our king -[5246.24 --> 5246.90] that God -[5246.90 --> 5247.50] is trustworthy -[5247.50 --> 5248.36] and that God -[5248.36 --> 5249.16] is our -[5249.16 --> 5249.78] deliverer -[5249.78 --> 5250.50] and Esther -[5250.50 --> 5251.06] ultimately -[5251.06 --> 5251.74] brings us -[5251.74 --> 5252.32] to Jesus -[5252.32 --> 5252.78] where we -[5252.78 --> 5253.44] see that -[5253.44 --> 5253.86] truth -[5253.86 --> 5254.84] most clearly -[5254.84 --> 5255.38] and in -[5255.38 --> 5255.72] Jesus -[5255.72 --> 5256.84] we see -[5256.84 --> 5257.54] also -[5257.54 --> 5258.80] that God -[5258.80 --> 5260.30] is near. -[5261.26 --> 5261.36] Right? -[5261.38 --> 5261.70] That God -[5261.70 --> 5262.26] is always -[5262.26 --> 5262.68] present -[5262.68 --> 5262.94] that he -[5262.94 --> 5263.42] is always -[5263.42 --> 5264.12] working -[5264.12 --> 5264.86] guiding -[5264.86 --> 5265.44] history -[5265.44 --> 5266.34] to his -[5266.34 --> 5266.72] ends. -[5267.04 --> 5267.36] Esther -[5267.36 --> 5267.78] in her -[5267.78 --> 5268.08] story -[5268.08 --> 5268.38] says -[5268.38 --> 5268.76] if I -[5268.76 --> 5269.10] die -[5269.10 --> 5269.94] I die -[5269.94 --> 5270.76] and yet -[5270.76 --> 5271.54] did not -[5271.54 --> 5271.80] die. -[5271.94 --> 5272.30] She is -[5272.30 --> 5272.68] teaching -[5272.68 --> 5273.16] us -[5273.16 --> 5274.44] that God's -[5274.44 --> 5275.44] work in -[5275.44 --> 5275.92] the world -[5275.92 --> 5276.82] is active -[5276.82 --> 5278.10] his providence -[5278.10 --> 5278.70] is the word -[5278.70 --> 5279.38] that we use -[5279.38 --> 5281.40] is to -[5281.40 --> 5283.40] bring about -[5283.40 --> 5284.12] not only -[5284.12 --> 5285.02] cosmically -[5285.02 --> 5285.98] and globally -[5285.98 --> 5286.84] his purposes -[5286.84 --> 5287.54] and ends -[5287.54 --> 5287.94] but in the -[5287.94 --> 5288.62] term providence -[5288.62 --> 5289.48] we were talking -[5289.48 --> 5290.24] about like -[5290.24 --> 5291.44] locally -[5291.44 --> 5292.28] and in -[5292.28 --> 5293.18] your life -[5293.18 --> 5293.92] in your -[5293.92 --> 5294.50] heart. -[5295.68 --> 5295.76] Right? -[5295.84 --> 5296.68] God's providence -[5296.68 --> 5297.72] is his sovereignty -[5297.72 --> 5298.80] coming near -[5298.80 --> 5299.68] to you. -[5300.42 --> 5300.90] Right? -[5300.92 --> 5301.36] When we say -[5301.36 --> 5302.18] God is near -[5302.18 --> 5303.06] what we mean -[5303.06 --> 5303.60] by that is -[5303.60 --> 5304.38] like not a hair -[5304.38 --> 5304.84] can fall -[5304.84 --> 5305.46] from my head -[5305.46 --> 5306.12] without the will -[5306.12 --> 5306.68] of my father -[5306.68 --> 5307.10] in heaven. -[5308.24 --> 5308.36] Right? -[5308.44 --> 5309.14] God's nearness -[5309.14 --> 5310.10] is shown to us -[5310.10 --> 5310.98] in the incarnation -[5310.98 --> 5311.84] when God -[5311.84 --> 5312.64] took on flesh -[5312.64 --> 5313.54] and made his -[5313.54 --> 5314.90] dwelling among us. -[5315.00 --> 5315.08] Right? -[5315.12 --> 5315.64] He became -[5315.64 --> 5317.00] as a man. -[5317.68 --> 5317.78] Right? -[5318.14 --> 5319.10] Eugene Peterson -[5319.10 --> 5319.76] says that -[5319.76 --> 5320.80] his dwelling -[5320.80 --> 5321.26] among us -[5321.26 --> 5321.78] he translates -[5321.78 --> 5322.66] that by saying -[5322.66 --> 5323.54] God moved -[5323.54 --> 5324.06] into the -[5324.06 --> 5324.38] neighborhood. -[5325.60 --> 5326.52] God is -[5326.52 --> 5327.12] near. -[5328.56 --> 5329.04] Sometimes -[5329.04 --> 5331.16] we can't -[5331.16 --> 5331.62] see him. -[5333.72 --> 5334.28] Sometimes -[5334.28 --> 5335.78] we need -[5335.78 --> 5336.06] him -[5336.06 --> 5336.80] to reveal -[5336.80 --> 5337.52] his nearness -[5337.52 --> 5338.34] to us -[5338.34 --> 5339.26] by the people -[5339.26 --> 5339.92] who lift us -[5339.92 --> 5340.18] up -[5340.18 --> 5341.22] when we fall -[5341.22 --> 5341.92] back in despair. -[5343.14 --> 5343.86] That's how -[5343.86 --> 5345.14] God is -[5345.14 --> 5345.92] near. -[5347.06 --> 5347.78] And through -[5347.78 --> 5348.34] it all -[5348.34 --> 5349.82] through it all -[5349.82 --> 5350.44] God -[5350.44 --> 5351.48] is -[5351.48 --> 5352.76] with you. -[5353.84 --> 5354.58] God is -[5354.58 --> 5355.38] with you. -[5355.50 --> 5356.14] Those who hope -[5356.14 --> 5356.70] in the Lord -[5356.70 --> 5357.20] will renew -[5357.20 --> 5357.82] their strength. -[5357.96 --> 5358.22] They will -[5358.22 --> 5359.52] soar on wings -[5359.52 --> 5360.10] like eagles. -[5360.22 --> 5360.78] They will run -[5360.78 --> 5361.78] and not grow weary. -[5362.12 --> 5362.86] They will walk -[5362.86 --> 5364.30] and not be faint. -[5365.04 --> 5365.74] God is -[5365.74 --> 5366.86] with you. -[5368.48 --> 5368.86] And girls -[5368.86 --> 5369.32] I'm actually -[5369.32 --> 5369.54] going to -[5369.54 --> 5371.04] sorry to the -[5371.04 --> 5371.52] people running -[5371.52 --> 5371.96] the camera -[5371.96 --> 5372.62] they're going -[5372.62 --> 5372.86] to hate -[5372.86 --> 5373.32] this part -[5373.32 --> 5373.56] but -[5373.56 --> 5376.78] as -[5376.78 --> 5377.58] you -[5377.58 --> 5378.66] go -[5378.66 --> 5379.84] from today -[5379.84 --> 5380.64] and in -[5380.64 --> 5381.08] gems -[5381.08 --> 5382.14] but -[5382.14 --> 5382.78] like I -[5382.78 --> 5382.96] just -[5382.96 --> 5387.88] my prayer -[5387.88 --> 5390.70] my prayer -[5390.70 --> 5391.26] for you -[5391.26 --> 5391.60] my -[5391.60 --> 5393.02] I don't -[5393.02 --> 5393.22] want to -[5393.22 --> 5393.72] say singular -[5393.72 --> 5394.20] but it's -[5394.20 --> 5394.56] like my -[5394.56 --> 5395.14] top three -[5395.14 --> 5395.58] prayers -[5395.58 --> 5396.06] for all -[5396.06 --> 5396.46] of you -[5396.46 --> 5397.06] is that -[5397.06 --> 5397.54] you will -[5397.54 --> 5397.90] know -[5397.90 --> 5398.70] that God -[5398.70 --> 5399.48] is -[5399.48 --> 5400.30] near -[5400.30 --> 5402.22] that he -[5402.22 --> 5402.94] is here -[5402.94 --> 5403.80] with you -[5403.80 --> 5404.54] and in -[5404.54 --> 5404.74] you -[5404.74 --> 5405.14] by his -[5405.14 --> 5405.78] Holy Spirit -[5405.78 --> 5406.88] right -[5406.88 --> 5407.26] if your -[5407.26 --> 5407.62] purpose -[5407.62 --> 5408.04] at gems -[5408.04 --> 5408.52] is girls -[5408.52 --> 5408.92] everywhere -[5408.92 --> 5409.44] meeting the -[5409.44 --> 5409.70] Savior -[5409.70 --> 5410.26] what I -[5410.26 --> 5410.58] want you -[5410.58 --> 5410.94] to know -[5410.94 --> 5411.28] is that -[5411.28 --> 5411.68] the Savior -[5411.68 --> 5412.42] meets -[5412.42 --> 5413.00] you -[5413.00 --> 5414.56] he comes -[5414.56 --> 5415.20] to you -[5415.20 --> 5416.00] first -[5416.00 --> 5417.20] right -[5417.20 --> 5417.40] he's -[5417.40 --> 5417.76] gathering -[5417.76 --> 5418.26] you -[5418.26 --> 5418.56] he's -[5418.56 --> 5418.84] calling -[5418.84 --> 5419.36] you -[5419.36 --> 5419.94] into -[5419.94 --> 5420.20] his -[5420.20 --> 5420.58] presence -[5420.58 --> 5421.02] and -[5421.02 --> 5421.30] making -[5421.30 --> 5421.90] you -[5421.90 --> 5422.48] a -[5422.48 --> 5422.94] loved -[5422.94 --> 5423.72] daughter -[5423.72 --> 5424.78] of the -[5424.78 --> 5425.12] Father -[5425.12 --> 5426.34] God -[5426.34 --> 5426.76] is -[5426.76 --> 5427.76] near -[5427.76 --> 5428.96] if -[5428.96 --> 5429.18] there's -[5429.18 --> 5429.58] one -[5429.58 --> 5430.34] message -[5430.34 --> 5430.96] one -[5430.96 --> 5431.42] message -[5431.42 --> 5431.66] that -[5431.66 --> 5432.38] anyone -[5432.38 --> 5432.82] in our -[5432.82 --> 5433.06] world -[5433.06 --> 5433.28] needs -[5433.28 --> 5433.62] to hear -[5433.62 --> 5434.46] but -[5434.46 --> 5434.78] perhaps -[5434.78 --> 5435.10] most -[5435.10 --> 5435.70] especially -[5435.70 --> 5436.66] right now -[5436.66 --> 5437.20] in today's -[5437.20 --> 5437.46] world -[5437.46 --> 5437.80] and in -[5437.80 --> 5438.16] today's -[5438.16 --> 5438.52] culture -[5438.52 --> 5439.36] is -[5439.36 --> 5440.10] you -[5440.10 --> 5440.88] girls -[5440.88 --> 5441.96] God -[5441.96 --> 5443.32] is -[5443.32 --> 5444.52] near -[5444.52 --> 5446.24] doesn't -[5446.24 --> 5446.40] matter -[5446.40 --> 5447.14] how far -[5447.14 --> 5447.62] you may -[5447.62 --> 5448.06] wander -[5448.06 --> 5449.46] God -[5449.46 --> 5449.64] is -[5449.64 --> 5449.88] near -[5449.88 --> 5450.70] doesn't -[5450.70 --> 5450.88] matter -[5450.88 --> 5451.44] how bad -[5451.44 --> 5451.78] things -[5451.78 --> 5452.00] may -[5452.00 --> 5452.28] get -[5452.28 --> 5452.84] God -[5452.84 --> 5453.00] is -[5453.00 --> 5453.20] near -[5453.20 --> 5453.32] it -[5453.32 --> 5453.46] doesn't -[5453.46 --> 5453.62] matter -[5453.62 --> 5454.22] how hard -[5454.22 --> 5454.58] life -[5454.58 --> 5454.80] may -[5454.80 --> 5455.08] be -[5455.08 --> 5455.50] God -[5455.50 --> 5455.62] is -[5455.62 --> 5455.78] near -[5455.78 --> 5455.90] it -[5455.90 --> 5456.14] doesn't -[5456.14 --> 5456.36] matter -[5456.36 --> 5456.56] how -[5456.56 --> 5457.02] mean -[5457.02 --> 5457.28] some -[5457.28 --> 5457.48] other -[5457.48 --> 5457.76] people -[5457.76 --> 5457.98] might -[5457.98 --> 5458.18] be -[5458.18 --> 5458.70] God -[5458.70 --> 5458.98] is -[5458.98 --> 5459.24] near -[5459.24 --> 5460.84] God -[5460.84 --> 5462.04] is -[5462.04 --> 5463.06] near -[5463.06 --> 5464.12] and -[5464.12 --> 5464.26] if -[5464.26 --> 5464.46] you -[5464.46 --> 5464.82] can't -[5464.82 --> 5465.08] see -[5465.08 --> 5465.38] him -[5465.38 --> 5466.72] look -[5466.72 --> 5467.00] around -[5467.00 --> 5467.22] you -[5467.22 --> 5468.28] seriously -[5468.28 --> 5468.60] stand -[5468.60 --> 5468.90] up -[5468.90 --> 5469.96] stand -[5469.96 --> 5470.20] up -[5470.20 --> 5470.58] gems -[5470.58 --> 5470.80] girls -[5470.80 --> 5471.02] look -[5471.02 --> 5471.28] around -[5471.28 --> 5473.92] Ali -[5473.92 --> 5474.18] you can -[5474.18 --> 5474.38] finish -[5474.38 --> 5474.48] your -[5474.48 --> 5474.68] drawing -[5474.68 --> 5474.94] later -[5474.94 --> 5475.34] look -[5475.34 --> 5475.68] around -[5475.68 --> 5477.20] it's -[5477.20 --> 5477.44] of me -[5477.44 --> 5477.90] perfect -[5477.90 --> 5479.24] look -[5479.24 --> 5479.54] around -[5479.54 --> 5480.50] you -[5480.50 --> 5480.64] see -[5480.64 --> 5480.84] these -[5480.84 --> 5481.20] people -[5481.20 --> 5483.42] God -[5483.42 --> 5483.64] is -[5483.64 --> 5483.96] near -[5483.96 --> 5485.86] in -[5485.86 --> 5486.06] their -[5486.06 --> 5486.56] faces -[5486.56 --> 5488.12] in -[5488.12 --> 5488.30] their -[5488.30 --> 5488.74] love -[5488.74 --> 5489.60] and -[5489.60 --> 5489.74] in -[5489.74 --> 5489.90] their -[5489.90 --> 5490.36] prayers -[5490.36 --> 5491.48] gems -[5491.48 --> 5491.88] counselor -[5491.88 --> 5492.24] stand -[5492.24 --> 5492.98] up -[5492.98 --> 5497.16] parents -[5497.16 --> 5497.56] of -[5497.56 --> 5497.76] these -[5497.76 --> 5498.12] girls -[5498.12 --> 5498.58] members -[5498.58 --> 5498.80] of -[5498.80 --> 5498.94] our -[5498.94 --> 5499.32] church -[5499.32 --> 5500.06] look -[5500.06 --> 5500.18] at -[5500.18 --> 5500.34] these -[5500.34 --> 5500.82] counselors -[5500.82 --> 5501.52] and -[5501.52 --> 5501.88] know -[5501.88 --> 5502.38] that -[5502.38 --> 5502.70] they -[5502.70 --> 5502.96] are -[5502.96 --> 5503.28] God -[5503.28 --> 5503.46] to -[5503.46 --> 5503.62] your -[5503.62 --> 5503.94] daughters -[5503.94 --> 5504.22] they -[5504.22 --> 5504.44] are -[5504.44 --> 5504.96] revealing -[5504.96 --> 5505.42] God -[5505.42 --> 5505.88] to -[5505.88 --> 5506.08] them -[5506.08 --> 5506.26] and -[5506.26 --> 5506.52] so -[5506.52 --> 5507.16] love -[5507.16 --> 5507.40] them -[5507.40 --> 5507.58] and -[5507.58 --> 5507.96] support -[5507.96 --> 5508.24] them -[5508.24 --> 5508.38] and -[5508.38 --> 5508.84] encourage -[5508.84 --> 5509.24] them -[5509.24 --> 5510.04] remember -[5510.04 --> 5510.52] them -[5510.52 --> 5510.66] in -[5510.66 --> 5510.80] your -[5510.80 --> 5511.20] prayers -[5511.20 --> 5512.32] because -[5512.32 --> 5512.60] this -[5512.60 --> 5512.72] is -[5512.72 --> 5512.86] how -[5512.86 --> 5513.02] we -[5513.02 --> 5513.20] see -[5513.20 --> 5513.42] God -[5513.42 --> 5513.58] is -[5513.58 --> 5513.76] near -[5513.76 --> 5515.00] and -[5515.00 --> 5515.12] now -[5515.12 --> 5515.38] everyone -[5515.38 --> 5515.60] else -[5515.60 --> 5515.86] stand -[5515.86 --> 5516.26] up -[5516.26 --> 5520.28] look -[5520.28 --> 5520.30] look -[5520.30 --> 5522.32] look -[5522.32 --> 5524.62] look -[5524.62 --> 5524.82] around -[5524.82 --> 5525.10] on the -[5525.10 --> 5525.38] face -[5525.38 --> 5525.54] of -[5525.54 --> 5525.96] every -[5525.96 --> 5526.38] person -[5526.38 --> 5526.64] you -[5526.64 --> 5527.02] see -[5527.02 --> 5528.46] Jesus -[5528.46 --> 5528.90] Christ -[5528.90 --> 5530.72] God -[5530.72 --> 5531.82] is -[5531.82 --> 5532.74] near -[5532.74 --> 5534.52] God -[5534.52 --> 5534.72] is -[5534.72 --> 5535.28] present -[5535.28 --> 5535.90] in -[5535.90 --> 5536.14] and -[5536.14 --> 5536.42] through -[5536.42 --> 5536.80] each -[5536.80 --> 5537.04] and -[5537.04 --> 5537.40] every -[5537.40 --> 5537.70] one -[5537.70 --> 5537.90] of -[5537.90 --> 5538.12] you -[5538.12 --> 5538.58] and -[5538.58 --> 5542.70] may -[5542.70 --> 5542.90] I -[5542.90 --> 5543.30] say -[5543.30 --> 5545.60] that -[5545.60 --> 5545.78] there -[5545.78 --> 5545.92] are -[5545.92 --> 5546.14] some -[5546.14 --> 5546.30] of -[5546.30 --> 5546.54] us -[5546.54 --> 5546.94] here -[5546.94 --> 5547.30] right -[5547.30 --> 5547.70] now -[5547.70 --> 5548.38] in -[5548.38 --> 5548.82] this -[5548.82 --> 5549.58] place -[5549.58 --> 5550.38] who -[5550.38 --> 5550.58] are -[5550.58 --> 5551.22] only -[5551.22 --> 5551.78] here -[5551.78 --> 5552.38] because -[5552.38 --> 5553.52] our -[5553.52 --> 5554.08] hearts -[5554.08 --> 5554.74] need -[5554.74 --> 5555.20] God -[5555.20 --> 5556.28] who -[5556.28 --> 5556.42] are -[5556.42 --> 5556.82] only -[5556.82 --> 5557.10] here -[5557.10 --> 5557.30] because -[5557.30 --> 5557.44] we -[5557.44 --> 5557.56] are -[5557.56 --> 5558.04] crying -[5558.04 --> 5558.42] out -[5558.42 --> 5558.74] in -[5558.74 --> 5559.20] agony -[5559.20 --> 5559.66] God -[5559.66 --> 5560.28] God -[5560.28 --> 5560.58] where -[5560.58 --> 5560.88] are -[5560.88 --> 5561.18] you -[5561.18 --> 5563.50] look -[5563.50 --> 5563.88] around -[5563.88 --> 5565.88] would -[5565.88 --> 5565.98] you -[5565.98 --> 5566.18] be -[5566.18 --> 5566.52] God's -[5566.52 --> 5566.82] presence -[5566.82 --> 5567.06] to -[5567.06 --> 5567.30] those -[5567.30 --> 5567.68] people -[5567.68 --> 5569.78] God -[5569.78 --> 5569.96] is -[5569.96 --> 5570.24] near -[5570.24 --> 5572.38] you -[5572.38 --> 5573.24] are -[5573.24 --> 5573.44] how -[5573.44 --> 5573.72] God -[5573.72 --> 5573.90] is -[5573.90 --> 5574.12] near -[5574.12 --> 5575.14] amen -[5575.14 --> 5576.82] stay -[5576.82 --> 5577.20] standing -[5577.20 --> 5577.56] I'm -[5577.56 --> 5577.62] going -[5577.62 --> 5577.70] to -[5577.70 --> 5577.88] pray -[5577.88 --> 5581.14] holy -[5581.14 --> 5582.08] holy -[5582.08 --> 5582.92] God -[5582.92 --> 5584.14] we -[5584.14 --> 5584.52] thank -[5584.52 --> 5584.70] you -[5584.70 --> 5584.90] for -[5584.90 --> 5585.12] how -[5585.12 --> 5585.42] you -[5585.42 --> 5585.84] are -[5585.84 --> 5586.40] here -[5586.40 --> 5586.84] how -[5586.84 --> 5587.10] you -[5587.10 --> 5587.46] are -[5587.46 --> 5588.06] near -[5588.06 --> 5588.30] we -[5588.30 --> 5588.70] thank -[5588.70 --> 5588.94] you -[5588.94 --> 5589.20] for -[5589.20 --> 5589.64] how -[5589.64 --> 5589.86] we -[5589.86 --> 5590.18] see -[5590.18 --> 5590.40] in -[5590.40 --> 5590.56] the -[5590.56 --> 5590.94] story -[5590.94 --> 5591.24] of -[5591.24 --> 5591.72] Esther -[5591.72 --> 5592.34] that -[5592.34 --> 5592.68] you -[5592.68 --> 5593.20] are -[5593.20 --> 5593.64] with -[5593.64 --> 5594.02] us -[5594.02 --> 5594.20] that -[5594.20 --> 5594.48] you -[5594.48 --> 5594.86] are -[5594.86 --> 5595.28] our -[5595.28 --> 5595.86] deliverer -[5595.86 --> 5596.04] that -[5596.04 --> 5596.28] you -[5596.28 --> 5596.64] are -[5596.64 --> 5597.26] trustworthy -[5597.26 --> 5598.16] because -[5598.16 --> 5598.96] you -[5598.96 --> 5599.68] are -[5599.68 --> 5600.36] king -[5600.36 --> 5602.80] holy -[5602.80 --> 5603.50] holy -[5603.50 --> 5603.90] God -[5603.90 --> 5604.10] we -[5604.10 --> 5604.66] praise -[5604.66 --> 5604.92] your -[5604.92 --> 5605.46] name -[5605.46 --> 5605.96] as -[5605.96 --> 5606.36] king -[5606.36 --> 5607.80] and -[5607.80 --> 5608.10] as -[5608.10 --> 5608.54] king -[5608.54 --> 5608.88] whom -[5608.88 --> 5609.14] we -[5609.14 --> 5609.62] trust -[5609.62 --> 5610.32] as -[5610.32 --> 5610.70] king -[5610.70 --> 5611.04] who -[5611.04 --> 5611.74] delivers -[5611.74 --> 5612.08] us -[5612.08 --> 5612.38] as -[5612.38 --> 5612.76] king -[5612.76 --> 5613.10] who -[5613.10 --> 5613.66] is -[5613.66 --> 5614.06] with -[5614.06 --> 5614.44] us -[5614.44 --> 5614.66] who -[5614.66 --> 5615.04] is -[5615.04 --> 5615.64] near -[5615.64 --> 5616.24] we -[5616.24 --> 5616.72] pray -[5616.72 --> 5617.26] now -[5617.26 --> 5617.62] Lord -[5617.62 --> 5618.08] God -[5618.08 --> 5618.98] raise -[5618.98 --> 5619.52] us -[5619.52 --> 5620.06] up -[5620.06 --> 5620.40] a -[5620.40 --> 5620.74] mighty -[5620.74 --> 5621.36] army -[5621.36 --> 5621.90] for -[5621.90 --> 5622.06] the -[5622.06 --> 5622.32] Lord -[5622.32 --> 5622.80] raise -[5622.80 --> 5623.18] us -[5623.18 --> 5623.58] up -[5623.58 --> 5624.00] that -[5624.00 --> 5624.14] we -[5624.14 --> 5624.34] might -[5624.34 --> 5624.80] rise -[5624.80 --> 5625.02] on -[5625.02 --> 5625.34] wings -[5625.34 --> 5625.62] like -[5625.62 --> 5625.90] eagles -[5625.90 --> 5626.08] and -[5626.08 --> 5626.22] that -[5626.22 --> 5626.42] we -[5626.42 --> 5626.70] might -[5626.70 --> 5627.30] minister -[5627.30 --> 5627.96] your -[5627.96 --> 5628.62] presence -[5628.62 --> 5628.90] to -[5628.90 --> 5629.32] those -[5629.32 --> 5629.84] in -[5629.84 --> 5630.20] need -[5630.20 --> 5630.52] to -[5630.52 --> 5630.82] those -[5630.82 --> 5631.02] whether -[5631.02 --> 5631.22] they -[5631.22 --> 5631.38] are -[5631.38 --> 5631.64] sitting -[5631.64 --> 5632.12] here -[5632.12 --> 5632.84] standing -[5632.84 --> 5633.26] here -[5633.26 --> 5633.80] today -[5633.80 --> 5634.24] or -[5634.24 --> 5634.38] to -[5634.38 --> 5634.74] those -[5634.74 --> 5634.94] whom -[5634.94 --> 5635.14] we -[5635.14 --> 5635.44] meet -[5635.44 --> 5636.00] tomorrow -[5636.00 --> 5636.52] or -[5636.52 --> 5636.64] in -[5636.64 --> 5636.78] the -[5636.78 --> 5637.14] days -[5637.14 --> 5637.52] and -[5637.52 --> 5637.82] weeks -[5637.82 --> 5638.10] to -[5638.10 --> 5638.40] come -[5638.40 --> 5640.42] send -[5640.42 --> 5640.44] send -[5640.44 --> 5640.68] us -[5640.68 --> 5640.94] out -[5640.94 --> 5641.14] as -[5641.14 --> 5641.82] ambassadors -[5641.82 --> 5642.54] of -[5642.54 --> 5642.96] your -[5642.96 --> 5643.78] presence -[5643.78 --> 5644.16] because -[5644.16 --> 5644.68] you -[5644.68 --> 5645.50] are -[5645.50 --> 5646.20] God -[5646.20 --> 5646.48] for -[5646.48 --> 5647.00] such -[5647.00 --> 5647.36] a -[5647.36 --> 5647.78] time -[5647.78 --> 5648.04] as -[5648.04 --> 5648.42] this -[5648.42 --> 5648.94] you -[5648.94 --> 5649.22] have -[5649.22 --> 5649.78] called -[5649.78 --> 5650.34] us -[5650.34 --> 5650.90] to -[5650.90 --> 5651.22] go -[5651.22 --> 5651.52] and -[5651.52 --> 5651.90] so -[5651.90 --> 5652.20] we -[5652.20 --> 5652.60] go -[5652.60 --> 5653.38] having -[5653.38 --> 5653.84] met -[5653.84 --> 5654.46] you -[5654.46 --> 5654.86] Lord -[5654.86 --> 5655.34] Jesus -[5655.34 --> 5655.80] our -[5655.80 --> 5656.16] Savior -[5656.16 --> 5656.72] and -[5656.72 --> 5657.16] so -[5657.16 --> 5657.56] we -[5657.56 --> 5658.00] go -[5658.00 --> 5660.10] to -[5660.10 --> 5660.40] act -[5660.40 --> 5660.94] justly -[5660.94 --> 5662.12] to -[5662.12 --> 5662.46] love -[5662.46 --> 5662.90] mercy -[5662.90 --> 5663.88] and to -[5663.88 --> 5664.24] walk -[5664.24 --> 5664.92] humbly -[5664.92 --> 5665.74] with -[5665.74 --> 5665.92] our -[5665.92 --> 5666.22] God -[5666.22 --> 5667.10] all -[5667.10 --> 5667.34] God's -[5667.34 --> 5667.50] people -[5667.50 --> 5667.80] said -[5667.80 --> 5669.18] Amen -[5669.18 --> 5669.22] Amen -[5669.22 --> 5670.80] Strength -[5670.80 --> 5686.60] will -[5686.60 --> 5687.68] rise -[5687.68 --> 5688.10] as we -[5688.10 --> 5688.76] wait -[5688.76 --> 5689.14] upon -[5689.14 --> 5689.48] the -[5689.48 --> 5689.76] Lord -[5689.76 --> 5690.02] we -[5690.02 --> 5690.28] will -[5690.28 --> 5690.90] wait -[5690.90 --> 5691.40] upon -[5691.40 --> 5691.68] the -[5691.68 --> 5691.94] Lord -[5691.94 --> 5692.18] we -[5692.18 --> 5692.48] will -[5692.48 --> 5693.08] wait -[5693.08 --> 5693.56] upon -[5693.56 --> 5693.82] the -[5693.82 --> 5694.60] Lord -[5694.60 --> 5695.60] we -[5695.60 --> 5696.06] will -[5696.06 --> 5697.06] wait -[5697.06 --> 5697.90] upon -[5697.90 --> 5698.14] the -[5698.14 --> 5698.48] Lord -[5698.48 --> 5698.74] we -[5698.74 --> 5699.00] will -[5699.00 --> 5699.58] wait -[5699.58 --> 5700.06] upon -[5700.06 --> 5700.34] the -[5700.34 --> 5700.62] Lord -[5700.62 --> 5700.90] we -[5700.90 --> 5701.14] will -[5701.14 --> 5701.76] wait -[5701.76 --> 5702.18] upon -[5702.18 --> 5702.54] the -[5702.54 --> 5702.82] Lord -[5702.82 --> 5703.98] God -[5703.98 --> 5705.26] you -[5705.26 --> 5706.02] reign -[5706.02 --> 5707.98] forever -[5707.98 --> 5711.06] our -[5711.06 --> 5712.18] Lord -[5712.18 --> 5713.06] our -[5713.06 --> 5713.76] strong -[5713.76 --> 5714.98] deliver -[5714.98 --> 5718.44] God -[5718.44 --> 5719.44] you -[5719.44 --> 5720.44] you -[5720.44 --> 5721.44] are -[5721.44 --> 5722.44] the -[5722.44 --> 5722.64] everlasting -[5722.64 --> 5724.44] God -[5724.44 --> 5725.22] the -[5725.22 --> 5726.44] everlasting -[5726.44 --> 5728.44] God -[5728.44 --> 5729.52] you -[5729.52 --> 5729.94] do -[5729.94 --> 5730.64] not -[5730.64 --> 5731.22] need -[5731.22 --> 5731.74] you -[5731.74 --> 5732.86] won't -[5732.86 --> 5734.20] grow -[5734.20 --> 5735.52] weary -[5735.52 --> 5737.78] for the -[5737.78 --> 5738.30] deep -[5738.30 --> 5738.86] end -[5738.86 --> 5739.90] of -[5739.90 --> 5740.44] the -[5740.44 --> 5741.36] we -[5741.36 --> 5742.60] you -[5742.60 --> 5743.30] ever -[5743.30 --> 5744.30] comes -[5744.30 --> 5744.78] in -[5744.78 --> 5746.06] we -[5746.06 --> 5747.06] lift -[5747.06 --> 5748.06] us -[5748.06 --> 5748.56] up -[5748.56 --> 5749.20] our -[5749.20 --> 5750.24] wings -[5750.24 --> 5751.64] like -[5751.64 --> 5752.72] he -[5752.72 --> 5754.34] goes -[5754.34 --> 5764.68] we -[5764.68 --> 5766.14] wait -[5766.14 --> 5766.64] upon -[5766.64 --> 5766.94] the -[5766.94 --> 5767.22] Lord -[5767.22 --> 5767.50] we -[5767.50 --> 5767.78] will -[5767.78 --> 5768.38] wait -[5768.38 --> 5768.88] upon -[5768.88 --> 5769.18] the -[5769.18 --> 5769.46] Lord -[5769.46 --> 5769.74] we -[5769.74 --> 5769.98] will -[5769.98 --> 5770.60] wait -[5770.60 --> 5771.10] upon -[5771.10 --> 5771.36] the -[5771.36 --> 5772.24] Lord -[5772.24 --> 5773.34] strength -[5773.34 --> 5773.64] will -[5773.64 --> 5773.96] rise -[5773.96 --> 5774.14] as -[5774.14 --> 5774.38] we -[5774.38 --> 5775.02] wait -[5775.02 --> 5775.52] upon -[5775.52 --> 5775.78] the -[5775.78 --> 5776.08] Lord -[5776.08 --> 5776.52] we -[5776.52 --> 5776.60] will -[5776.60 --> 5777.20] wait -[5777.20 --> 5777.72] upon -[5777.72 --> 5777.98] the -[5777.98 --> 5778.24] Lord -[5778.24 --> 5778.52] we -[5778.52 --> 5778.78] will -[5778.78 --> 5779.36] wait -[5779.36 --> 5779.86] upon -[5779.86 --> 5780.10] the -[5780.10 --> 5780.38] Lord -[5780.38 --> 5780.92] our -[5780.92 --> 5782.38] God -[5782.38 --> 5783.02] you -[5783.02 --> 5783.66] reign -[5783.66 --> 5786.86] forever -[5786.86 --> 5788.60] our -[5788.60 --> 5789.92] hope -[5789.92 --> 5790.72] and -[5790.72 --> 5791.36] strong -[5791.36 --> 5792.64] deliver -[5792.64 --> 5797.48] you -[5797.48 --> 5798.02] are -[5798.02 --> 5798.58] the -[5798.58 --> 5800.30] everlasting -[5800.30 --> 5801.80] God -[5801.80 --> 5809.22] 你 -[5811.54 --> 5813.70] now -[5813.70 --> 5814.12] we -[5814.12 --> 5814.50] good -[5814.50 --> 5818.30] Jesus -[5818.30 --> 5818.38] is -[5818.38 --> 5820.42] he -[5820.42 --> 5821.28] we -[5821.28 --> 5824.98] Lord -[5824.98 --> 5825.40] you -[5825.40 --> 5827.32] let -[5827.32 --> 5848.16] Amen. -[5848.16 --> 5848.22] Amen. -[5849.42 --> 5854.72] Once again, as we go, go first with two invitations. -[5854.72 --> 5860.86] The first, stick around following our worship time together as we gather for fellowship. -[5861.06 --> 5862.78] There should be some refreshments and the like. -[5863.58 --> 5869.24] Maybe talk to some of the gems and ask how they have seen God at work in this past year -[5869.24 --> 5875.52] or share with them how you have seen God at work in your own life and ask what they've been up to. -[5875.52 --> 5881.30] As well, go with an invitation to stick around following that for lunch -[5881.30 --> 5887.76] and a time of hearing how God worked through our Mexico mission team together. -[5888.32 --> 5893.98] That will be a good time and we'll move into that following our time of fellowship together. -[5894.86 --> 5898.58] Lastly, go with God's blessing. -[5899.06 --> 5902.02] Receive the blessing of God for the journey of life and faith ahead. -[5902.02 --> 5905.84] God, go before you to lead you. -[5906.24 --> 5908.22] God, go behind you to guard you. -[5909.10 --> 5911.30] God, go beneath you to support you. -[5911.48 --> 5914.70] And God, go beside you to protect you, to befriend you. -[5915.22 --> 5916.94] Do not be afraid. -[5917.42 --> 5919.20] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5919.20 --> 5927.56] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to reveal God as near to a world in need. -[5928.16 --> 5928.48] Amen. -[5932.02 --> 5959.70] Salvation belongs to our God who sits upon a throne. -[5959.70 --> 5970.16] And unto the Lamb of praise and glory, wisdom and thanks, -[5970.66 --> 5974.90] Honor and power and strength. -[5974.90 --> 5979.92] He to our God forever and ever. -[5979.92 --> 5984.76] King to our God forever and ever. -[5984.98 --> 5989.68] King to our God forever and ever. -[5989.74 --> 5990.38] Amen. -[5990.38 --> 5999.08] We the redeemed shall be strong -[5999.08 --> 6003.56] In purpose and unity -[6003.56 --> 6008.66] Declaring our love -[6008.66 --> 6013.52] Praise and glory, wisdom and grace -[6013.52 --> 6018.30] Honor and power and strength -[6018.30 --> 6023.28] We to our God forever and ever -[6023.28 --> 6033.66] Amen -[6033.66 --> 6043.00] We to our God forever and ever -[6043.00 --> 6047.98] We to our God forever and ever -[6047.98 --> 6052.98] We to our God forever and ever -[6052.98 --> 6055.00] Amen -[6055.00 --> 6061.98] We to our God forever and ever -[6061.98 --> 6066.96] We to our God forever and ever -[6066.96 --> 6070.96] We to our God forever and ever -[6070.96 --> 6072.96] Amen -[6072.96 --> 6073.96] Amen -[6073.96 --> 6076.96] Amen -[6076.96 --> 6078.96] Amen -[6078.96 --> 6080.96] Amen -[6080.96 --> 6082.96] Amen -[6082.96 --> 6084.96] Amen -[6084.96 --> 6086.98] Amen -[6086.98 --> 6088.98] Amen -[6088.98 --> 6089.96] Amen -[6096.20 --> 6098.90] Amen -[6098.90 --> 6098.96] Amen -[6098.96 --> 6099.96] Amen -[6099.96 --> 6099.98] Amen -[6099.98 --> 6100.24] Amen -[6100.24 --> 6101.06] Amen -[6101.08 --> 6101.98] Amen -[6101.98 --> 6104.24] Amen -[6104.24 --> 6104.94] Amen -[6106.32 --> 6106.88] Amen -[6106.88 --> 6107.10] Amen -[6107.10 --> 6108.14] Amen -[6108.14 --> 6108.24] Amen -[6108.24 --> 6108.78] Amen -[6108.78 --> 6110.04] Amen -[6110.04 --> 6110.32] Amen -[6110.32 --> 6110.34] Amen -[6110.34 --> 6117.94] Amen -[6117.94 --> 6143.38] Self- napkin -[6147.94 --> 6177.92] Thank you. -[6177.94 --> 6207.92] Thank you. -[6207.94 --> 6237.92] Thank you. -[6237.94 --> 6267.92] Thank you. -[6267.94 --> 6297.92] Thank you. -[6297.94 --> 6327.92] Thank you. -[6327.94 --> 6357.92] Thank you. -[6357.94 --> 6387.92] Thank you. -[6387.94 --> 6417.92] Thank you. -[6417.94 --> 6447.92] Thank you. -[6447.94 --> 6477.92] Thank you. -[6477.94 --> 6507.92] Thank you. -[6507.94 --> 6537.92] Thank you. -[6537.94 --> 6567.92] Thank you. -[6567.94 --> 6597.92] Thank you. -[6597.94 --> 6627.92] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, Aug 18, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, Aug 18, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 9078234e02b8625db51a71ed18a0c1a9eb4e7529..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, Aug 18, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,132 +0,0 @@ -• Awakening and spiritual awakening -• Singing for the world and proclaiming God's will -• The reign of God and kingdom revelation -• Prayer, faith, and intercession in times of darkness -• Rebellion, addiction, and deception -• Authority, majesty, and redemption -• Love, justice, and serving the kingdom of God -• Worship and giving one's heart to God -• Upcoming worship service: Lament and Longing -• Volunteer sign-ups for Reactivate youth conference -• Sanctuary maintenance tasks (stacking chairs) -• Meeting with Jody Gonzalez, missionary in Tijuana/Rosarito -• Meet the Isotopes baseball team event on Labor Day weekend -• AED/CPR first aid class on October 19 -• Call to worship from Revelation 19 -• Greeting and blessing from God the Father, Lord Jesus Christ, and Holy Spirit -• Invocation of "Hallelujah" and "Alleluia" with reference to the Lord's reign -• Praise to God as holy and worthy of worship -• References to the Lamb and God's throne -• Worship song lyrics expressing devotion to God -• Discussion of a devotional that includes words from Paul Tripp -• Corporate worship as an invitation to know and be known by God -• Prayer for presence, redemption, and gratitude for God's grace -• Song "Ancient of Days" with lyrics about trusting in God's name and power -• Acknowledgement of God's sovereignty and love -• References to Scripture and the story of redemption through Jesus Christ -• The Lamb is mentioned and praised as a symbol of redemption -• Jesus will reign forevermore and the victory is his -• Mike introduces himself as a deacon and thanks attendees for giving to Friendship Ministries, a partner ministry that serves people with special needs or disabilities -• Testimonies and prayers are shared, including one about a church's community-based friendship ministry -• A call to prayer is made for children attending worship time and adults staying in the sanctuary -• The Lord's blessing is given -• Congregational prayer led by Elder Ken -• Praying for one another's personal struggles and burdens -• Seeking God's guidance and strength throughout the week -• Thanking God for blessings such as children and family -• Praying for those with health issues, including medical struggles and addictions -• Asking for healing and restoration in their lives -• Praying for specific individuals, including families and those undergoing surgery -• Prayer for guidance and leadership in world and church -• Reading from Acts 16, specifically verses 16-40 -• Discussion of Reactivate conference and its organization -• Children's worship time modifications during summer -• Collection of artwork from sermons and stories -• Invitation to use provided materials for drawing or coloring -• Paul and Silas were thrown into prison after being accused of causing an uproar by advocating for unlawful customs -• They prayed and sang hymns, which led to a violent earthquake that freed them from their chains -• The jailer was convinced to believe in God and his whole household was baptized -• Paul refused to be released quietly and requested the magistrates to escort them out of prison themselves -• The magistrates were alarmed when they learned that Paul and Silas were Roman citizens, and eventually escorted them out of the city. -• Parallels between biblical stories and contemporary life -• Importance of finding strength in God during trials and persecutions -• Paul's second missionary journey and his travels with Silas -• Meeting Timothy in Lystra and Paul's mentorship -• The first visit to Lystra where Paul healed a lame man and was revered as Hermes -• Trouble caused by Jewish leaders for Paul and Barnabas -• Paul and Barnabas are stirred up by a group of leaders and the crowd turns against them -• They are accused of trying to make the crowd worship them instead of God -• As a result, they are stoned and left for dead, but Paul is revived by prayer -• The experience shows that Paul and his companions are familiar with suffering for the gospel -• In Acts 14, Paul and Barnabas arrive in Lystra after gathering Timothy and travel to Troas where Luke joins them -• They then come to Philippi, a leading city in the Roman Empire, where they meet Lydia and stay with her -• The story of their experiences in Philippi begins when they go to the place of prayer outside the city gates. -• The Jewish population in a certain city is too small to support a synagogue. -• Paul doesn't attend the synagogue, leading the group to pray elsewhere outside the city. -• A female slave with a "python spirit" (a reference to the serpent from Greek mythology) regularly shouts at them during their journey. -• This is likely an allusion to the oracle at Delphi in Greek mythology, where Apollo established a python as a guardian of prophecy and truth. -• The woman's possession by the "python spirit" may be seen as a way for her to deliver prophetic messages. -• The slave girl was shouting that Paul and his group were servants of the high God who were telling them the way to be saved. -• This exchange is more than just words or ideas, but a spiritual battle between the gods of the age and the most high God. -• Paul eventually intervenes, commanding the spirit in Jesus' name to come out of the girl. -• The event highlights the spiritual reality behind the gospel proclamation, which is a battle against spiritual forces of evil. -• This concept is supported by Ephesians 6, where Paul writes about putting on the full armor of God to stand against the devil's schemes and spiritual forces of evil. -• The Bible advises Christians to take up spiritual armor, including the shield of faith and helmet of salvation. -• Prayer is a key aspect of spiritual warfare, and should be done in the spirit with all kinds of prayers and requests. -• Paul's letters, such as those to Timothy, emphasize the importance of prayer for believers, especially when speaking or writing about God's message. -• The battle against evil is primarily spiritual, and Christians must engage in this fight through prayer and faith. -• Conversations about Jesus and the gospel can be seen as spiritual battles, requiring a serious and intentional approach. -• The importance of taking spiritual conversations seriously, as they are a form of spiritual warfare -• The need for memorization of scripture to equip oneself for these conversations -• A compelling argument that scripture memorization is the best way to share God's word with people -• How scripture memorization can impact one's prayer life and provide something to say in conversations -• The benefits of praying scripture out loud with others, as it can connect on a deeper level than human words. -• The conflict in Acts is primarily spiritual and has material consequences -• The spiritual level impacts the physical reality of those involved -• Paul's command for a demon to leave a woman had an immediate impact on her and her owners -• The gospel is a spiritual truth for a spiritual reality, but it also affects physical reality -• Human sinfulness and rebellion against God have broken our relationship with Him -• Everything we do is tainted by the stain of sin in this spiritual reality -• The speaker believes the Bible is true and that they are loved by God more than they can imagine. -• Jesus Christ came into the world, was born, lived a life of perfect righteousness, and kept God's commands. -• Jesus died on the cross for the speaker's sin, taking their punishment and bearing the wrath of God. -• Three days later, Jesus was raised from the dead, defeating death and the devil. -• The same Jesus now grants new life through the spirit and is seated at the right hand of God, reigning over all the universe. -• Living by the gospel means living in the trust of Jesus and sharing in his anointing. -• The relationship between God and humans -• Trusting Jesus more than oneself through faith and grace -• The impact of spiritual truth on the world and personal lives -• The power of God's word to recreate and transform individuals -• The rediscovery of spirituality in modern times, often apart from the gospel -• People want a spirituality that doesn't disrupt their lives. -• Jesus requires complete devotion, but people may prioritize worldly things. -• The early Christians faced persecution for their beliefs, with accusations of being cannibals due to participating in the Lord's Supper. -• The Roman mindset considered worshipping one God alone and certain Christian practices as unlawful customs. -• In ancient Greek and Roman cities, the marketplace was a gathering place for news, updates, and exchanges. -• Discussion of cultural and economic context -• Reference to market economics and ideas of wealth as drivers -• Spiritual conflict mentioned, with Jesus' teaching on treasure and heart alignment -• Persecution of Paul and Silas in the story of Acts 16:22 -• Impact of proclaiming the gospel on physical reality -• Examples of persecution and battle between spirits of age and God -• The importance of being prepared for difficult situations -• The example of Paul and Silas in jail, praying and singing hymns to God -• The role of prayer, the word of God, and spiritual songs in pushing back against the spirit of this age -• Encouragement to find strength in God in the face of trial and persecution -• The need to push back against the spirit of this age that confuses, divides, separates, and promotes chaos and discord. -• Pushing back against spiritual forces with prayer and proclamation of the gospel -• The importance of being deeply in prayer to face spiritual battles -• Understanding that good God has given us Jesus Christ and promised the Holy Spirit -• Recognizing the power of singing and proclaiming the gospel as a form of resistance against evil spirits -• Inviting people to stand together and pray, followed by worship and song to push back against darkness -• Prayer and worship -• Battle analogy for life's challenges -• God's love and peace as reward -• Christ's forever presence in one's life -• Courage and hope in the face of fear -• God's guidance, protection, and support -• Blessing and favor from God -• Call to serve and love the Lord -• Recitation of a prayer or blessing with repeated mentions of "Amen" -• Request for God's favor to be upon the speaker and their family -• Expressions of gratitude in various iterations of "Thank you" \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, Aug 18, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, Aug 18, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 350a3562afd500fbdf0d3d7e141f8f2e143d41bd..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, Aug 18, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2433 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 11.28] Awaken it for this moment, for this hour. -[13.28 --> 20.18] Awaken it for you and you alone. -[20.18 --> 26.34] Awake my soul, awake my soul. -[26.34 --> 31.94] And sing for the world you love. -[32.46 --> 39.52] That your will be done, that your will be done in me. -[39.52 --> 43.78] For you and you alone. -[44.30 --> 49.74] Awake my soul, awake my soul. -[50.20 --> 55.42] And sing for the world you love. -[55.42 --> 63.18] That your will be done, that your will be done in me. -[63.18 --> 93.18] -[93.18 --> 100.94] Awaken it for you and you alone. -[100.94 --> 108.70] I hear your voice and this is my awakening. -[108.70 --> 116.46] Awaken it for you and you alone. -[116.46 --> 121.46] Awaken it for you and you alone. -[121.46 --> 131.22] Awaken it for you and you alone. -[131.22 --> 135.22] Awaken it for you and you alone. -[135.22 --> 152.22] Awake my soul -[152.22 --> 169.22] Awake my soul -[169.22 --> 175.22] And soon from the darkness comes a light -[175.22 --> 178.22] Awake my soul -[178.22 --> 181.22] Awake my soul -[181.22 --> 187.22] And sing like the rising sun that shines -[187.22 --> 190.22] Awake my soul -[190.22 --> 193.22] Awake my soul -[193.22 --> 199.22] And soon only you can raise a light -[199.22 --> 202.22] Awake my soul -[202.22 --> 205.22] Awake my soul -[205.22 --> 209.22] And sing like the rising sun that shines -[209.22 --> 225.22] In our hearts, Lord, in the nations -[225.22 --> 230.22] Awake my soul -[230.22 --> 248.22] Awake my soul -[248.22 --> 253.22] It's time -[253.22 --> 270.82] It's time for the reign of God. It's time for your light to shine. It's time for the kingdom of our God to be revealed. -[270.82 --> 285.56] It's time for authority. It's time for your majesty. It's time for the kingdom of our God to be revealed. -[285.56 --> 300.56] It's time for the reign of God. It's time for your light to shine. It's time for the kingdom of our God to be revealed. -[300.82 --> 315.98] It's time for authority. It's time for your majesty. It's time for the kingdom of our God to be revealed. -[317.86 --> 329.06] In these days of wars and famines, in these days when hearts grow cold, in these days of growing darkness, -[329.06 --> 340.48] there's a story to be told. So we gather in the spirit. We lift up the prayer of faith. -[340.48 --> 349.48] We proclaim the mighty word of God, the power in your name. -[350.56 --> 364.34] It's time for the reign of God. It's time for your light to shine. It's time for the kingdom of our God to be revealed. -[364.34 --> 381.34] It's time for the kingdom of our God to be revealed. -[381.34 --> 383.34] We're a castle of rebellion. -[383.34 --> 396.22] We're a castle of rebellion. Addicted and deceived. For those who wander far from home. It's time to intercede. -[396.22 --> 400.78] So we gather in the spirits -[400.78 --> 404.30] We lift up the prayer of faith -[404.30 --> 408.98] We proclaim the mighty word of God -[408.98 --> 412.66] The power in your name -[412.66 --> 416.48] The power in your name -[416.48 --> 422.20] It's time for the praise of God -[422.20 --> 425.96] It's time for your light to shine -[425.96 --> 430.68] It's time for the kingdom of our God -[430.68 --> 432.18] Be revealed -[432.18 --> 436.76] It's time for authority -[436.76 --> 440.52] It's time for your majesty -[440.52 --> 445.66] It's time for the kingdom of our God -[445.66 --> 447.22] Be revealed -[447.22 --> 452.32] It's time for the reign of God -[452.32 --> 456.04] It's time for your light to shine -[456.04 --> 460.74] It's time for the kingdom of our God -[460.74 --> 462.54] Be revealed -[462.54 --> 466.88] It's time for authority -[466.88 --> 470.66] It's time for your majesty -[470.66 --> 475.38] It's time for the kingdom of our God -[475.38 --> 480.10] To be redeemed -[480.10 --> 481.60] It's time for you -[481.60 --> 483.60] It's time for you -[483.60 --> 485.30] Oh yeah -[485.30 --> 486.18] Oh yeah -[486.18 --> 487.10] Oh yeah -[487.10 --> 492.10] It's time for you -[492.10 --> 493.10] It's time for you -[493.10 --> 505.48] It's time for love and justice -[505.48 --> 519.44] It's time for love and justice -[519.44 --> 524.16] It's time for the kingdom of our God -[524.16 --> 528.16] It's time for the kingdom of our God -[528.16 --> 529.66] To serve again -[529.66 --> 530.16] It's time for the kingdom of our God -[530.16 --> 531.78] To serve again -[531.78 --> 532.16] Oh yeah -[532.16 --> 533.16] Oh yeah -[533.16 --> 534.16] Oh yeah -[534.16 --> 536.16] Oh yeah -[536.16 --> 553.86] Oh yeah -[556.02 --> 560.10] Oh yeah -[560.10 --> 573.78] Come, now is the time to worship. -[575.78 --> 583.64] Come, now is the time to give your heart. -[583.64 --> 592.40] Come, just as you are to worship. -[594.40 --> 602.46] Come, just as you are before your God. -[603.94 --> 604.52] Come. -[608.20 --> 612.62] One day every tongue will confess you are God. -[612.62 --> 616.28] One day every knee will bow. -[617.72 --> 626.50] Still the greatest treasure remains for those who gladly choose you now. -[629.12 --> 636.44] Come, now is the time to worship. -[636.44 --> 646.32] Come, now is the time to give your heart. -[647.96 --> 654.94] Come, just as you are to worship. -[654.94 --> 665.32] Come, just as you are before your God. -[666.32 --> 667.36] Come. -[671.32 --> 674.98] One day every tongue will confess you are God. -[674.98 --> 676.80] Good morning. -[679.08 --> 682.02] I don't know if you saw, but I almost ate it on the way up the stairs here. -[682.16 --> 683.54] So it's going to be a good morning. -[684.14 --> 685.56] Welcome to, yeah, I know you saw it. -[685.58 --> 685.92] Thank you. -[686.30 --> 686.84] Welcome to worship. -[686.90 --> 688.56] If you're a guest with us, my name is Chris. -[688.74 --> 690.14] I'm one of the pastors here. -[690.14 --> 697.62] And it's my privilege to share with you in our worship this morning to lead you as we encounter God in this space together. -[697.62 --> 704.90] Before we begin, I got a bunch of announcements because some are starting to wrap up and that means things are starting to happen again. -[705.04 --> 708.76] And so bear with me as I plow through these. -[709.90 --> 719.38] First, this evening at 7 p.m., we are hosting a special worship service called Lament and Longing. -[719.38 --> 731.32] It's an opportunity to gather together and to worship our God in the midst of the chaoses and the turmoils and the grief and the mourning that we may be experiencing right now in our lives. -[731.36 --> 735.58] We want to take that and just bring it into the presence of God together. -[735.76 --> 738.44] And so we're going to gather for a special worship service. -[738.52 --> 742.00] It's going to be in the foyer over there at 7 p.m. -[742.62 --> 745.54] Encourage you to join us for that time together. -[745.54 --> 751.66] If you have any questions about that, you can get me or Pastor Kevin after the service and we'll gladly address those for you. -[752.94 --> 758.76] Also, following our worship today, when we gather for coffee and hanging out in the back there, -[759.12 --> 771.04] at the Connect booth, there will be a laptop so that you can most quickly and expediently sign up to volunteer helping at Reactivate. -[771.82 --> 775.28] So Reactivate is a youth conference that we host in September. -[775.54 --> 779.24] And we need a bunch of volunteers to fill spots and holes. -[779.42 --> 789.30] And to make that as easy as possible, Kevin and maybe even Rachel will meet you at the back and help sign you up for different responsibilities and time slots and the like. -[789.38 --> 791.10] And so you can grab them there. -[792.72 --> 797.72] I'm going to keep moving through today after our service here. -[798.24 --> 800.94] We have some work that's happening in the sanctuary this week. -[800.94 --> 808.62] And so if you're feeling strong and helpful, we need to stack these chairs and kind of move them around the outside. -[808.76 --> 811.14] Dave's going to coordinate that at the end of our service. -[811.34 --> 816.18] And so after coffee, after hanging out together, if you can just start piling chairs up, -[816.44 --> 821.06] that would be super helpful for the kinds of things that are going to happen this week in this space. -[821.06 --> 823.38] I'm going to keep going. -[823.38 --> 833.16] On Tuesday evening this week at the Alchemist House, there's a gathering where we have the chance to meet together with Jody Gonzalez, -[833.44 --> 836.58] who's a missionary that we support, who's a member of this church. -[837.12 --> 839.76] She's a missionary in Tijuana and Rosarito. -[839.98 --> 845.82] And she is in town and would love to meet with you if you'd like to connect with her and hear how things are going. -[845.82 --> 849.94] Rob is here representing the Alchemists and Aaron is on the drums. -[850.18 --> 854.32] So if you need to learn where their house is, grab them and they will tell you. -[854.40 --> 858.54] That's Tuesday night from 7.30 to 9 o'clock at their place. -[859.44 --> 860.78] All right, I'm going to keep going. -[863.40 --> 873.08] On Labor Day weekend Sunday, September 1st, we are going to host another, we're calling it this year, Meet the Topes. -[873.08 --> 876.42] And so our baseball team is the Isotopes. -[876.56 --> 882.20] Last year we played Beat the Topes, but we won two tournaments this year, so y'all aren't going to beat us. -[882.76 --> 884.94] Instead, we've offered for you to meet us. -[885.32 --> 889.74] So we're going to have a baseball day together after church on the Labor Day weekend. -[890.22 --> 894.92] If you want to sign up for that, again, Kevin and Aaron will get you connected. -[895.16 --> 896.26] More details to come. -[896.26 --> 902.50] But we'd love to hang out and have a barbecue or some fellowship time together, a potluck rather, on that Sunday. -[903.08 --> 904.12] And we'll hang out there. -[905.22 --> 910.08] Lastly, on, make sure I get this right, October 19. -[910.34 --> 913.26] And now I know that's a long time away, but that's a Saturday. -[913.86 --> 921.14] October 19, we are hosting an AED and CPR level C first aid class. -[922.30 --> 926.30] And you're going to have a three-year certificate that comes out of that. -[926.40 --> 927.50] And Heather is here. -[928.00 --> 929.12] She's in charge of that. -[929.12 --> 939.86] If you would like to sign up and register to participate that, we need at least six more interested people, or five more, because I said I would be interested in that. -[939.98 --> 942.12] Talk to Heather, and we'll make sure that that happens. -[942.22 --> 947.70] And that way we have people trained here in case of emergencies, or at least particular types of emergencies. -[947.76 --> 955.68] Talk to Heather today, if you couldn't hear her, because she has to book it with MediQuest Technologies. -[955.68 --> 957.60] All right. -[957.82 --> 959.14] I think that's it. -[959.60 --> 960.66] Kevin, did I miss anything? -[961.70 --> 962.26] Anyone else? -[962.34 --> 963.00] Did I miss anything? -[964.30 --> 964.96] All right. -[965.00 --> 966.86] If I missed something, you'll hear about it next week. -[967.44 --> 970.66] Can we stand together as we're welcomed into God's presence? -[970.66 --> 979.86] We gather in this place because God calls us and he meets us, and we mark that by receiving his greeting. -[980.08 --> 987.96] Following the greeting that we receive from God, I invite you to turn to those around you and to welcome them, to greet them in the name of the Lord as well. -[988.30 --> 990.24] Receive the blessing of our God. -[990.24 --> 1002.20] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[1003.14 --> 1003.48] Amen. -[1003.48 --> 1003.62] Amen. -[1020.24 --> 1044.18] Our call to worship this morning comes from Revelation 19, verses 6 and 7. -[1044.18 --> 1054.12] Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting, -[1054.76 --> 1058.20] Hallelujah, for our Lord God Almighty reigns. -[1058.64 --> 1067.70] Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory, for the wedding of the Lamb has come and his bride has made herself ready. -[1067.70 --> 1067.80] Amen. -[1074.18 --> 1075.18] Amen. -[1104.18 --> 1105.18] Amen. -[1105.18 --> 1105.44] Amen. -[1105.44 --> 1109.14] Amen. -[1109.14 --> 1109.66] Amen. -[1109.66 --> 1110.06] Amen. -[1110.06 --> 1111.56] Amen. -[1111.56 --> 1116.56] Amen. -[1116.64 --> 1121.88] Amen. -[1121.88 --> 1129.72] Amen. -[1129.72 --> 1131.22] Amen. -[1131.22 --> 1133.50] Amen. -[1133.50 --> 1133.74] Amen. -[1133.74 --> 1143.18] oh -[1149.90 --> 1155.18] oh -[1163.74 --> 1168.88] You are holy, holy. -[1170.54 --> 1175.26] Are you, Lord God Almighty? -[1177.26 --> 1178.72] Worthy is again. -[1180.36 --> 1181.72] Worthy is again. -[1183.06 --> 1184.82] Amen. -[1184.82 --> 1186.82] Amen. -[1193.50 --> 1194.58] Alleluia. -[1198.64 --> 1199.82] Alleluia. -[1200.62 --> 1204.82] For the Lord God Almighty reigns. -[1206.82 --> 1208.82] Alleluia. -[1212.82 --> 1213.82] Alleluia. -[1214.82 --> 1219.82] For the Lord our rising reigns. -[1220.82 --> 1224.82] Alleluia. -[1225.82 --> 1231.82] For the Lord our rising reigns. -[1232.82 --> 1235.82] Alleluia. -[1235.82 --> 1237.82] For the Lord our rising reigns. -[1237.82 --> 1239.82] Alleluia. -[1239.82 --> 1240.82] Worthy is again. -[1240.82 --> 1241.82] Worthy is again. -[1241.82 --> 1242.82] Worthy is again. -[1242.82 --> 1243.82] Worthy is again. -[1243.82 --> 1244.82] Worthy is again. -[1244.82 --> 1249.82] For you are holy, holy. -[1249.82 --> 1254.82] Are you, Lord God Almighty? -[1254.82 --> 1255.82] Worthy is again. -[1255.82 --> 1260.82] Worthy is again. -[1260.82 --> 1262.82] Worthy is again. -[1262.82 --> 1269.82] You are holy, holy. -[1269.82 --> 1276.20] By you, Lord God Almighty -[1276.20 --> 1283.68] Worthy is the Lamb, worthy is the Lamb -[1283.68 --> 1286.10] Amen -[1299.82 --> 1302.82] Amen -[1302.82 --> 1304.82] Amen -[1304.82 --> 1306.82] Amen -[1306.82 --> 1308.82] Amen -[1308.82 --> 1310.82] Amen -[1310.82 --> 1314.82] Amen -[1314.82 --> 1318.82] Amen -[1318.82 --> 1320.82] Amen -[1320.82 --> 1324.82] I will see -[1324.82 --> 1326.82] I will see -[1326.82 --> 1332.82] With all of my heart -[1332.82 --> 1336.82] I will praise you -[1336.82 --> 1343.82] With all of my praise -[1343.82 --> 1347.82] I will see you -[1347.82 --> 1350.82] I will see you -[1350.82 --> 1356.82] All of my praise -[1356.82 --> 1360.82] I will all go -[1360.82 --> 1364.82] All of your praise -[1364.82 --> 1372.82] I will give you all my worship -[1372.82 --> 1378.82] I will give you all my praise -[1378.82 --> 1382.82] You alone I long to worship -[1382.82 --> 1386.82] You alone are worthy of my life -[1386.82 --> 1388.82] I will bow down -[1388.82 --> 1392.82] I will bow down -[1392.82 --> 1394.82] I will bow down -[1394.82 --> 1398.82] And I'll hail you as King -[1398.82 --> 1400.82] And I'll hail you as King -[1400.82 --> 1404.82] I will serve you -[1404.82 --> 1406.82] I will serve you -[1406.82 --> 1408.82] Give you everything -[1408.82 --> 1410.82] Give you everything -[1410.82 --> 1412.82] Give you everything -[1412.82 --> 1416.82] I will lift up -[1416.82 --> 1418.82] I will lift up -[1418.82 --> 1420.82] My eyes to your throne -[1420.82 --> 1422.82] My eyes to your throne -[1422.82 --> 1424.82] My eyes to your throne -[1424.82 --> 1426.82] Your throne -[1426.82 --> 1442.82] I will trust you -[1442.82 --> 1445.82] I will trust you -[1445.82 --> 1446.82] I will trust you alone -[1446.82 --> 1452.70] You alone I long to worship -[1452.70 --> 1459.22] You alone are worthy of my grace -[1459.22 --> 1463.76] I will give you all my worship -[1463.76 --> 1469.80] I will give you all my praise -[1469.80 --> 1474.82] You alone I long to worship -[1474.82 --> 1479.26] You alone I long to worship -[1479.26 --> 1483.26] You alone I long to worship -[1483.26 --> 1485.26] You alone I long to worship -[1485.26 --> 1487.18] You alone I long to worship -[1487.18 --> 1493.26] You alone I long to worship -[1493.26 --> 1501.90] I'm reading from a book called Sunday, one that I actually got from my mom, and it has devotions on Sunday. -[1501.90 --> 1505.34] This is words from Paul Tripp. -[1505.34 --> 1535.34] -[1535.34 --> 1565.34] -[1565.34 --> 1568.62] Protecting, providing, rescuing, and guiding. -[1568.62 --> 1574.70] It is a good thing to be reminded again and again that we cannot hide from him. -[1575.86 --> 1585.14] Corporate worship is an invitation to come out of hiding and to bask in the beauty of knowing and being known by God, -[1585.14 --> 1590.36] a beauty that is ours because of his redeeming grace. -[1591.02 --> 1592.22] Let's pray together. -[1592.22 --> 1600.66] Father God, we come to you this morning basking in your beauty and your presence. -[1600.66 --> 1610.52] We thank you, Lord, that even though we don't deserve this presence, that you come to us and you rescue us from all of our sin and our destruction. -[1611.96 --> 1617.34] Thank you for your grace, for your love, and for your mercy in our lives. -[1618.04 --> 1620.02] We pray this in Jesus' name. -[1621.02 --> 1621.34] Amen. -[1621.34 --> 1621.48] Amen. -[1623.08 --> 1626.90] Please stand as we continue in worship singing Ancient of Days. -[1626.90 --> 1633.72] Amen. -[1637.60 --> 1642.40] Amen. -[1647.28 --> 1652.10] Ayers -[1652.10 --> 1672.32] Though the nations rage, kingdoms rise and fall, there is still a one King reigning over all. -[1672.32 --> 1690.14] So I will not fear, for this truth remains, that my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1690.14 --> 1708.14] None above Him and before Him, all I'm tied in His hands, for His throne it shall remain and ever stand. -[1708.14 --> 1726.38] All the power, all the glory, I will trust in His name, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1726.38 --> 1741.38] Though the dread of night overwhelms my soul, He is here with me. -[1741.38 --> 1763.38] I am not alone, though His love is sure, and He knows my name, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1763.38 --> 1780.38] None above Him and before Him, all I'm tied in His hands, for His love it shall remain and ever stand. -[1780.38 --> 1798.38] All the power, all the glory, I will trust in His name, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1798.38 --> 1828.36] All the glory, all the glory, I will trust in His name, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1828.36 --> 1858.34] All the glory, all the glory, I will trust in His name, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1858.34 --> 1888.32] All the glory, all the glory, I will trust in His name, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1888.32 --> 1890.32] All the glory, all the glory, I will trust in His name, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1890.32 --> 1895.32] All the glory, all the glory, I will trust in His name, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1895.32 --> 1897.32] All the glory, all the glory, I will trust in His name, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1897.32 --> 1901.32] All the glory, all the glory, I will trust in His name, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1901.32 --> 1908.32] All the glory, all the glory, I will trust in His name, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1908.32 --> 1912.32] All the glory, all the glory, I will trust in His name, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1912.32 --> 1913.32] All the glory, all the glory, I will trust in His name, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1913.32 --> 1919.32] All the glory, all the glory, I will trust in His name, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1919.32 --> 1925.32] All the glory, all the glory, I will trust in His name, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1925.32 --> 1926.32] All the glory, all the glory, I will trust in His name, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1926.32 --> 1935.08] All the glory, all the glory, I will trust in His name, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1935.28 --> 1942.22] Know your scripture, O God is the Ancient of Days named Hanley, for me those who are appointed to become one, for my God is the Ancient of Days. -[1942.32 --> 1944.94] All the glory, all the glory, are the spot, in one day CHille andUAuman -[1945.10 --> 1946.58] live this mantle. -[1946.88 --> 1948.82] know your spirit will trust in Jesus' name, for my God is theeline and that word Amaid. -[1948.92 --> 1950.42] hearP blast in Jesus' name, for our Father's fight. -[1950.42 --> 1951.80] Lord, he will trust in the description, for my Father's wife. -[1951.80 --> 1954.32] We are the one game, given a temple, when you are the name in the description. -[1954.92 --> 1956.32] Old at the top of God's house, displayed in my heart, for our Father's love. -[1956.32 --> 1960.72] and pay the cost. -[1960.72 --> 1967.42] Oh God, we thank you for the cross. -[1970.84 --> 1973.90] Behold the Lamb, -[1974.16 --> 1980.28] the story of redemption written on His hands. -[1980.86 --> 1984.92] Jesus, you who reign forevermore, -[1984.92 --> 1988.62] the victory is yours. -[1989.76 --> 1993.04] We sing your praise, -[1993.46 --> 1998.96] endless hallelujah to your holy name. -[1999.64 --> 2002.92] Jesus, you who reign forevermore, -[2003.92 --> 2006.66] the victory is yours. -[2006.66 --> 2021.58] The Snipazuje in the Sacrament of the Day. -[2021.58 --> 2028.58] For time, the Lord of life, can be contained. -[2030.12 --> 2035.14] Our God has risen from the grave. -[2035.14 --> 2042.14] Oh, our God has risen from the grave. -[2042.78 --> 2048.28] Behold the last, the story of redemption -[2048.28 --> 2051.72] with it on its end. -[2052.40 --> 2056.34] Jesus, you will reign forevermore. -[2056.66 --> 2060.10] The victory is yours. -[2060.10 --> 2064.26] We sing your praise. -[2064.52 --> 2069.84] And let's hallelujah to your holy name. -[2070.22 --> 2074.30] Jesus, you will reign forevermore. -[2074.66 --> 2077.90] The victory is yours. -[2078.28 --> 2080.28] Oh, God. -[2080.28 --> 2087.32] I need a path in love. -[2087.32 --> 2094.00] We'll see your face bright as the sun. -[2094.00 --> 2101.06] We'll bow before the King of kings. -[2101.06 --> 2103.06] Oh, God. -[2103.06 --> 2107.06] Forever we will sing. -[2107.06 --> 2113.06] Behold the Lamb. -[2113.06 --> 2115.06] Behold the Lamb. -[2115.06 --> 2121.22] The story of redemption written on its hands. -[2121.22 --> 2125.06] Jesus, you will reign forevermore. -[2125.06 --> 2129.06] The victory is yours. -[2129.06 --> 2133.06] Behold the Lamb. -[2133.06 --> 2135.06] Behold the Lamb. -[2135.06 --> 2137.06] The victory is yours. -[2137.06 --> 2139.06] Behold the Lamb. -[2139.06 --> 2140.06] Behold the Lamb. -[2140.06 --> 2142.06] Behold the Lamb. -[2142.06 --> 2144.06] Behold the Lamb. -[2144.06 --> 2146.06] Behold the Lamb. -[2146.06 --> 2148.06] Behold the Lamb. -[2148.06 --> 2151.06] We sing your praise. -[2151.06 --> 2152.06] We sing your praise. -[2152.06 --> 2157.10] And let's hallelujah to your holy name. -[2157.10 --> 2159.10] Jesus, you will reign forevermore. -[2159.10 --> 2162.10] Jesus, you will reign forevermore. -[2162.10 --> 2165.10] The victory is yours. -[2165.10 --> 2168.14] You reign forevermore. -[2168.14 --> 2171.10] The victory is yours. -[2171.10 --> 2174.10] Jesus reigns forevermore. -[2174.10 --> 2176.10] The victory is yours. -[2176.10 --> 2181.10] The victory is yours. -[2181.10 --> 2183.10] Let me have a seat. -[2183.10 --> 2184.10] Let me have a seat. -[2191.10 --> 2192.10] Good morning. -[2192.10 --> 2194.10] My name is Mike and I serve as a deacon here at the church. -[2194.10 --> 2200.10] And this morning we have a chance to give of our gifts for the Friendship Ministries. -[2200.10 --> 2209.22] This is a partner ministry of the CRC Church that works to share the love of Christ with people who have special needs or special disabilities. -[2209.96 --> 2215.62] And they also work with churches to help create a welcoming space for people with some of those special needs. -[2216.12 --> 2220.74] And I actually grew up in a church that had a very vibrant community-based friendship ministry. -[2220.74 --> 2234.38] So it has a special place in my heart because the level of vulnerability and exuberance and hospitality that took place at their meetings or when they would lead a Sunday service was something very special. -[2234.72 --> 2237.02] So thank you for giving this morning to this ministry. -[2250.74 --> 2280.72] Thank you. -[2280.74 --> 2282.74] Thank you. -[2310.74 --> 2312.74] Thank you. -[2312.74 --> 2316.74] Thank you. -[2320.74 --> 2329.74] Thank you. -[2329.74 --> 2333.84] Your hand of love saves you, heal me. -[2333.84 --> 2337.34] I am weak. -[2338.08 --> 2342.34] I need your love to bring me. -[2342.60 --> 2346.04] Oh, Lord, my love. -[2346.64 --> 2354.74] My saving weakness will rescue me. -[2354.74 --> 2360.70] Oh, Lord, you are my soul. -[2360.70 --> 2366.54] Your voice never fails me. -[2366.88 --> 2369.28] And my need to come. -[2369.68 --> 2374.30] We can follow you forever. -[2375.32 --> 2378.88] For you are good. -[2379.38 --> 2383.20] For you are good to me. -[2383.20 --> 2385.38] For you are good. -[2387.56 --> 2390.00] For you are good. -[2391.50 --> 2393.80] For you are good. -[2394.16 --> 2396.08] For you are good. -[2396.36 --> 2400.48] For you are good to me. -[2400.86 --> 2402.62] For you are good. -[2402.72 --> 2404.94] For you are good. -[2404.94 --> 2410.02] For you are good to me. -[2410.02 --> 2424.78] I'm keeping this one, Dave. -[2425.86 --> 2429.70] Kids, can I invite you to come on down to the front here? -[2429.78 --> 2432.32] If you are three years old up to kindergarten, -[2432.44 --> 2434.86] you can come on up and join me up here for a minute. -[2434.86 --> 2436.82] It would be great to see you. -[2440.02 --> 2445.54] Good morning, everyone. -[2446.90 --> 2448.06] How are we doing this morning? -[2449.50 --> 2449.86] Good? -[2449.98 --> 2451.30] We're going to whisper this morning, yeah? -[2451.34 --> 2452.16] We'll be whisperers. -[2453.58 --> 2454.72] You guys had a good week? -[2455.62 --> 2457.28] Are you ready to go to children's worship time? -[2457.82 --> 2458.02] Yeah? -[2458.16 --> 2458.36] Okay. -[2458.78 --> 2461.74] Let me pray, and then we'll head on off to children's worship time. -[2461.78 --> 2463.12] We'll do the blessing after I pray, okay? -[2463.54 --> 2463.80] Deal? -[2464.98 --> 2465.34] Deal. -[2465.64 --> 2466.34] All right, let's pray. -[2466.70 --> 2468.18] Father God, thank you so much for this day. -[2468.18 --> 2469.80] Thank you that we could come to church this morning. -[2470.20 --> 2473.16] Praise your name and learn more about what it means to follow you. -[2473.94 --> 2476.46] We pray for these kids right now as they go to children's worship time -[2476.46 --> 2478.74] and for the grownups as they stay here in the sanctuary, Lord. -[2478.98 --> 2482.38] Pray that you will help us open up our hearts and our ears -[2482.38 --> 2483.66] to what it is you want to teach us today. -[2483.76 --> 2484.62] We pray this in your name. -[2485.28 --> 2485.64] Amen. -[2486.54 --> 2487.42] All right, should we stand? -[2488.06 --> 2489.40] And we're going to do the Lord's blessing. -[2489.48 --> 2490.92] Everybody else stand two, please. -[2491.30 --> 2493.18] We're going to say the Lord be with you together. -[2493.28 --> 2493.72] Are you ready? -[2494.40 --> 2495.78] One, two, three. -[2495.78 --> 2495.82] One, two, three. -[2500.02 --> 2502.10] All right, you can head on down to children's worship time. -[2502.58 --> 2502.94] All right. -[2502.94 --> 2503.40] All right. -[2503.40 --> 2503.98] All right. -[2503.98 --> 2506.16] You can head on down to children's worship time. -[2506.16 --> 2521.18] Good morning. -[2521.18 --> 2521.22] Good morning. -[2521.72 --> 2522.86] My name is Ken. -[2523.06 --> 2524.90] I am an elder here at Emanuel Church. -[2524.90 --> 2529.86] And this morning I have the privilege of leading us in congregational prayer. -[2530.72 --> 2535.64] And as I look around at the people sitting around me in church every Sunday, -[2536.18 --> 2539.04] I always carry my week with me. -[2539.12 --> 2543.66] And I sometimes think everyone has things that have been going on in their lives -[2543.66 --> 2544.60] over this past week. -[2545.20 --> 2547.48] And some of them we know of and some we don't. -[2547.68 --> 2549.86] And as we pray throughout the week, -[2549.92 --> 2552.36] I think it's good just to keep in mind the people around us -[2552.36 --> 2557.28] and pray for each other continuously and also for us as a body of believers -[2557.28 --> 2560.44] that we would continue to turn our hearts and minds to God, -[2560.52 --> 2563.70] not just on Sunday mornings, but all through the week. -[2564.42 --> 2566.80] Let's turn our heads now to our Lord in prayer. -[2568.88 --> 2570.56] Holy God, gracious Father, -[2570.56 --> 2573.58] it is so good to be together here as your people, -[2574.12 --> 2577.54] singing your praises and turning our hearts to you in worship. -[2578.54 --> 2579.06] Alleluia. -[2579.06 --> 2581.90] For the Lord God Almighty reigns. -[2582.36 --> 2583.46] Worthy is the Lamb. -[2584.80 --> 2586.62] And Lord, you tell us to come to you, -[2586.84 --> 2588.56] all who are weary and burdened, -[2588.98 --> 2590.18] and you will give us rest. -[2590.74 --> 2592.94] Lord, sometimes we struggle to find rest. -[2593.08 --> 2596.04] We make ourselves overwhelmed and busy with life -[2596.04 --> 2598.04] and forget to turn to you for rest, Lord. -[2598.08 --> 2599.78] And I pray that you would draw our hearts to you -[2599.78 --> 2601.84] and help us find rest. -[2603.16 --> 2605.90] We're called to look to the Lord and his strength -[2605.90 --> 2607.86] and seek his face always. -[2608.40 --> 2609.38] And Lord, we do that now, -[2609.54 --> 2611.64] and we pray that you would encourage us -[2611.64 --> 2614.00] and guide us to do that throughout the week as well. -[2615.50 --> 2617.82] Lord, we have so many things that you've blessed us with, -[2617.86 --> 2619.02] so much to be thankful for. -[2619.40 --> 2620.36] We thank you for children. -[2620.90 --> 2623.40] What a gracious gift it is to see a new little one. -[2623.68 --> 2625.78] And we're so thankful and praise you, Lord, -[2625.88 --> 2627.22] with Adam and Rachel Smid -[2627.22 --> 2629.68] for their precious baby boy, Lucas Lars. -[2629.68 --> 2632.10] And we thank you, Lord, for the safe arrival, -[2632.30 --> 2633.62] and we pray for this young family, -[2633.94 --> 2635.10] that they will adjust well, -[2635.42 --> 2637.72] and that they will raise him up to know you. -[2639.10 --> 2642.48] Lord, we pray for those of us who know of -[2642.48 --> 2645.52] and who have children who are not walking with you, Lord, -[2645.60 --> 2649.34] and who have wandered from your fold, Lord. -[2649.36 --> 2651.16] And we pray that you would draw them to you -[2651.16 --> 2654.12] and help us to be encouraged to continue to pray for them -[2654.12 --> 2655.84] and continue to minister to each other. -[2655.84 --> 2660.06] Lord, we pray for those who are dealing -[2660.06 --> 2662.00] with various medical struggles at the time. -[2662.48 --> 2664.20] We praise you, Lord, for the good news -[2664.20 --> 2666.36] with Everly Vardstra that all tests so far -[2666.36 --> 2667.24] have come back clear. -[2667.80 --> 2670.00] But, Lord, we know that there's more still to come, -[2670.14 --> 2671.90] and we pray for your healing measure -[2671.90 --> 2673.60] and that you would bring her to full, -[2673.94 --> 2676.24] continued healing in Everly's little body. -[2678.22 --> 2681.08] Father, we pray for all those amongst us -[2681.08 --> 2684.02] that we know of with physical and mental health struggles -[2684.02 --> 2686.14] and also those we don't know of, Lord. -[2686.44 --> 2688.78] And some challenges that people face -[2688.78 --> 2690.16] with different health struggles, -[2690.74 --> 2693.08] even with daily life, with aches and pains, -[2693.48 --> 2695.62] and with the difficulties of aging, Lord, -[2695.66 --> 2699.82] it can be life-changing to experience new things -[2699.82 --> 2702.62] and new abilities as time goes on, Lord. -[2702.62 --> 2706.92] And I pray for people that support those who are struggling -[2706.92 --> 2708.54] and for those who are struggling -[2708.54 --> 2710.32] with various health issues that we know of. -[2710.32 --> 2717.96] And, Father, we also pray for those who are undergoing surgery. -[2718.12 --> 2720.04] Soon we think of Emo Smith, -[2720.16 --> 2722.38] whose surgery is scheduled for this week, -[2722.42 --> 2723.46] for open-heart surgery. -[2724.06 --> 2726.46] And, Lord, we pray for your peace -[2726.46 --> 2729.30] in Emo and Benita over this week, -[2729.32 --> 2731.34] and we pray for successful -[2731.34 --> 2734.64] and complete healing through the surgery. -[2734.64 --> 2739.08] And, Lord, we pray for those who are struggling -[2739.08 --> 2741.64] with different addictions and challenges -[2741.64 --> 2743.84] in this life, Lord. -[2743.94 --> 2747.46] And we pray for your healing and restoration -[2747.46 --> 2748.50] in their lives. -[2749.16 --> 2750.64] We think of the world around us, -[2750.70 --> 2752.12] and we see many challenges, Lord, -[2752.14 --> 2753.38] and we lift those up to you as well. -[2753.70 --> 2755.94] We see war, poverty, and hunger. -[2756.50 --> 2757.74] Lord, help us to be a light -[2757.74 --> 2759.54] to the darkness in this world -[2759.54 --> 2761.26] and that you would shine through -[2761.26 --> 2763.62] and that we would share the gospel boldly -[2763.62 --> 2764.72] with those that we meet. -[2765.98 --> 2768.60] Lord, we pray for those in leadership positions -[2768.60 --> 2769.34] in this world. -[2769.52 --> 2770.88] We pray for our political leaders, -[2771.52 --> 2773.06] Lord, that they would know -[2773.06 --> 2775.02] that their authority comes from you. -[2775.40 --> 2776.48] And even if they don't, Lord, -[2776.54 --> 2778.30] that you would guide them to lead -[2778.30 --> 2779.62] according to your will. -[2780.68 --> 2783.00] And, Lord, we pray for our church leadership as well, -[2783.06 --> 2784.94] for our pastors and for our staff -[2784.94 --> 2786.60] and for those who volunteer -[2786.60 --> 2788.04] in various leadership positions. -[2788.78 --> 2790.30] We think of the Reactivate conference -[2790.30 --> 2792.24] coming up very soon, Lord, -[2792.30 --> 2793.76] and we pray for your guiding hand -[2793.76 --> 2795.08] on those who are organizing -[2795.08 --> 2796.46] and volunteering for that. -[2796.76 --> 2799.82] And we pray for it to be a good time -[2799.82 --> 2801.66] of connection and growth -[2801.66 --> 2802.54] for the young people -[2802.54 --> 2804.36] and for those who volunteer as well. -[2805.64 --> 2808.18] And, Lord, as we hear your word now -[2808.18 --> 2810.34] and as Pastor Chris brings us your message, -[2810.56 --> 2812.20] Lord, we pray that you'd open our hearts, -[2812.20 --> 2815.20] stir in us a new desire to learn -[2815.20 --> 2816.44] and to know you better -[2816.44 --> 2818.14] and to continue to grow in you. -[2818.48 --> 2819.78] And we pray that Chris's words -[2819.78 --> 2821.52] would be your words to us this morning -[2821.52 --> 2823.36] and that our ears would be open to hear -[2823.36 --> 2826.16] and our hearts would be guided to change by it. -[2826.30 --> 2828.22] We pray these things in Jesus' precious name. -[2828.76 --> 2828.96] Amen. -[2842.20 --> 2847.42] This summer, part of what we're doing -[2847.42 --> 2848.42] in our worship together -[2848.42 --> 2851.16] is looking at stories from the book of Acts. -[2851.66 --> 2856.10] Today, we're going to read a story from Acts 16. -[2856.92 --> 2858.60] And the first time we go through, -[2858.78 --> 2861.68] I'm going to read verses 16 through 40. -[2862.14 --> 2863.96] The first time we go through, I'll read it. -[2864.00 --> 2864.92] It will be on the screen. -[2865.24 --> 2865.90] We'll go ahead. -[2866.32 --> 2867.24] But I encourage you, -[2867.40 --> 2868.76] if you have a Bible with you, -[2868.82 --> 2870.32] to open that up and to have that -[2870.32 --> 2872.14] and keep that open as we go through. -[2872.66 --> 2873.88] If you didn't bring a Bible, -[2874.14 --> 2875.44] you can turn on your phone -[2875.44 --> 2877.42] or the device that you have, -[2877.54 --> 2880.00] your Bible apps on and follow along there. -[2880.00 --> 2881.48] Or there's a few at the back -[2881.48 --> 2882.92] that are available as well. -[2883.04 --> 2884.82] I encourage you to grab one of those. -[2885.54 --> 2888.42] Additionally, because it's summertime, -[2888.70 --> 2890.26] we're doing our children's worship time -[2890.26 --> 2891.50] a little bit differently. -[2892.06 --> 2893.10] And so we have clipboards -[2893.10 --> 2895.98] with some crosswords and pictures -[2895.98 --> 2897.70] and things for the kids -[2897.70 --> 2899.86] or for anyone who is aided -[2899.86 --> 2902.06] by having something to draw or color -[2902.06 --> 2902.80] while they listen. -[2903.66 --> 2906.12] And we're collecting pictures every week -[2906.12 --> 2908.46] from the sermon or from the story. -[2908.66 --> 2911.08] And so if you hear something that I say -[2911.08 --> 2912.46] and it moves you to draw a picture, -[2912.74 --> 2914.06] we want you to do that. -[2914.12 --> 2916.40] And then we want you to give it back to us -[2916.40 --> 2918.58] because we're going to create an art display -[2918.58 --> 2919.54] at the end of summer -[2919.54 --> 2921.74] of all the pictures from the sermons and the like. -[2921.84 --> 2923.34] And so grab a clipboard. -[2923.52 --> 2924.24] If they're all gone, -[2924.36 --> 2925.50] if they're not, I can see them. -[2925.50 --> 2927.34] You can use the back of the bulletin -[2927.34 --> 2928.42] that you were given as well -[2928.42 --> 2929.54] to draw a picture on -[2929.54 --> 2932.56] so that we can share that later. -[2933.06 --> 2935.78] I'm going to read from Acts 16. -[2936.66 --> 2938.74] And Tara, I'm going to start at verse 16. -[2938.84 --> 2939.24] Excellent. -[2941.36 --> 2943.14] Acts 16, starting at verse 16. -[2945.54 --> 2948.38] Once, when we were going to the place of prayer, -[2948.90 --> 2950.82] we were met by a female slave -[2950.82 --> 2953.70] who had a spirit by which she predicted the future. -[2953.70 --> 2956.56] She earned a great deal of money -[2956.56 --> 2958.32] for her owners by fortune telling. -[2959.46 --> 2961.48] She followed Paul and the rest of us, -[2961.68 --> 2961.98] shouting, -[2962.50 --> 2964.64] These men are servants of the Most High God -[2964.64 --> 2966.60] who are telling you the way to be saved. -[2967.70 --> 2969.56] And she kept this up for many days. -[2970.24 --> 2972.08] Finally, Paul became so annoyed -[2972.08 --> 2974.30] that he turned around and said to the spirit, -[2974.64 --> 2976.10] In the name of Jesus Christ, -[2976.22 --> 2978.42] I command you to come out of her. -[2979.16 --> 2980.90] And at that moment, the spirit left her. -[2980.90 --> 2984.28] When her owners realized -[2984.28 --> 2986.66] that their hope of making money was gone, -[2986.80 --> 2988.64] they seized Paul and Silas -[2988.64 --> 2990.84] and dragged them into the marketplace -[2990.84 --> 2992.56] to face the authorities. -[2993.72 --> 2995.88] They brought them before the magistrates -[2995.88 --> 2996.28] and said, -[2996.76 --> 2998.20] These men are Jews -[2998.20 --> 3000.60] and are throwing our city into an uproar -[3000.60 --> 3003.50] by advocating customs unlawful for us Romans -[3003.50 --> 3005.48] to accept or to practice. -[3005.48 --> 3009.32] The crowd joined in the attack -[3009.32 --> 3010.90] against Paul and Silas. -[3011.68 --> 3013.22] And the magistrates ordered them -[3013.22 --> 3015.04] to be stripped and beaten with rods. -[3016.18 --> 3017.98] After they had been severely flogged, -[3018.04 --> 3019.10] they were thrown into prison -[3019.10 --> 3020.80] and the jailer was commanded -[3020.80 --> 3022.10] to guard them carefully. -[3022.82 --> 3024.22] And when he received these orders, -[3024.54 --> 3026.26] he put them in the inner cell -[3026.26 --> 3028.68] and fastened their feet in the stocks. -[3029.98 --> 3031.06] About midnight, -[3031.26 --> 3032.66] Paul and Silas were praying -[3032.66 --> 3034.06] and singing hymns to God -[3034.06 --> 3035.22] and the other prisoners -[3035.22 --> 3036.20] were listening to them. -[3036.60 --> 3039.04] Suddenly, there was such a violent earthquake -[3039.04 --> 3041.28] that the foundations of the prison were shaken. -[3042.52 --> 3044.46] At once, all the doors flew open -[3044.46 --> 3046.48] and everyone's chains came loose. -[3046.98 --> 3048.00] The jailer woke up -[3048.00 --> 3049.68] and when he saw the prison doors open, -[3049.76 --> 3050.64] he drew his sword -[3050.64 --> 3051.90] and was about to kill himself -[3051.90 --> 3053.66] because he thought the prisoners had escaped. -[3054.16 --> 3055.04] But Paul shouted, -[3055.66 --> 3057.36] Do not harm yourself. -[3058.08 --> 3058.90] We are all here. -[3058.90 --> 3062.28] The jailer called for lights, -[3062.50 --> 3063.08] rushed in, -[3063.22 --> 3064.06] and fell trembling -[3064.06 --> 3065.64] before Paul and Silas. -[3066.42 --> 3067.46] He brought them out -[3067.46 --> 3067.92] and asked, -[3068.10 --> 3070.18] Sirs, what must I do to be saved? -[3071.34 --> 3072.06] They replied, -[3072.18 --> 3073.56] Believe in the Lord Jesus -[3073.56 --> 3075.04] and you will be saved, -[3075.38 --> 3076.82] you and your household. -[3078.22 --> 3080.34] Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him -[3080.34 --> 3082.20] and to all the others in his house. -[3083.22 --> 3084.76] At that hour of the night, -[3084.84 --> 3085.78] the jailer took them -[3085.78 --> 3086.98] and washed their wounds -[3086.98 --> 3088.14] and then immediately -[3088.14 --> 3090.28] he and all his household were baptized. -[3091.40 --> 3093.24] The jailer brought them into his house -[3093.24 --> 3094.64] and set a meal before them. -[3094.96 --> 3096.60] He was filled with such joy -[3096.60 --> 3098.62] because he had come to believe in God, -[3098.96 --> 3100.68] he and his whole household. -[3102.58 --> 3103.78] When it was daylight, -[3103.92 --> 3105.76] the magistrates sent their officers -[3105.76 --> 3108.26] to the jailer with the order, -[3108.72 --> 3109.58] Release those men. -[3110.24 --> 3111.38] The jailer told Paul, -[3111.80 --> 3112.90] The magistrates have ordered -[3112.90 --> 3114.44] that you and Silas be released. -[3114.80 --> 3115.62] Now you can go. -[3115.62 --> 3116.92] Now you can leave. -[3117.08 --> 3117.74] Go in peace. -[3119.08 --> 3120.46] But Paul said to the officers, -[3121.38 --> 3123.34] They beat us publicly without a trial, -[3123.48 --> 3125.38] even though we are Roman citizens, -[3125.66 --> 3127.08] and threw us into prison. -[3127.34 --> 3129.12] And now they want to get rid of us quietly? -[3129.62 --> 3131.40] No, let them come themselves -[3131.40 --> 3132.76] and escort us out. -[3134.16 --> 3136.60] The officers reported this to the magistrates, -[3136.82 --> 3138.78] and when they heard that Paul and Silas -[3138.78 --> 3139.80] were Roman citizens, -[3140.08 --> 3140.86] they were alarmed. -[3141.70 --> 3143.22] They came to appease them -[3143.22 --> 3144.88] and escorted them from the prison, -[3145.28 --> 3147.10] requesting them to leave the city. -[3147.98 --> 3150.18] After Paul and Silas came out of the prison, -[3150.56 --> 3151.76] they went to Lydia's house, -[3152.18 --> 3153.90] where they met with the brothers and sisters -[3153.90 --> 3155.38] and encouraged them. -[3155.92 --> 3157.30] Then they left. -[3157.30 --> 3159.16] This is the word of the Lord. -[3163.16 --> 3167.46] Now this is another one of those fascinating stories -[3167.46 --> 3169.34] from the early church -[3169.34 --> 3172.52] that we are using to help frame -[3172.52 --> 3177.32] our contemporary experience of life and faith. -[3177.84 --> 3180.12] Although for most of us here, -[3180.52 --> 3183.28] the parallels aren't exactly one-to-one. -[3183.28 --> 3184.52] That is to say, -[3184.58 --> 3186.70] I haven't heard any of your stories yet -[3186.70 --> 3188.18] of being arrested -[3188.18 --> 3190.62] for casting out spirits -[3190.62 --> 3192.02] in a marketplace -[3192.02 --> 3194.22] and then having to deal with the magistrates. -[3195.94 --> 3197.94] And yet, I do think -[3197.94 --> 3200.38] that there's parallels and lots -[3200.38 --> 3201.98] that we can learn from -[3201.98 --> 3203.14] in this text -[3203.14 --> 3205.00] and from this story. -[3206.10 --> 3206.82] Particularly, -[3207.18 --> 3208.72] what I hope that we will see -[3208.72 --> 3213.24] is how we might find strength in God -[3213.24 --> 3215.56] during these kinds of trials -[3215.56 --> 3217.46] or during persecutions. -[3217.52 --> 3219.38] That's the sort of banner for us this morning. -[3219.52 --> 3221.28] Finding strength in God -[3221.28 --> 3223.36] during trials and persecution. -[3223.56 --> 3225.96] How can we do that -[3225.96 --> 3228.96] based on what we have seen -[3228.96 --> 3231.02] in this story and text? -[3232.04 --> 3232.68] Now let me give you -[3232.68 --> 3233.72] just a little bit of context. -[3233.72 --> 3234.20] context. -[3234.62 --> 3236.72] And as I tell the story -[3236.72 --> 3237.60] a little bit of how -[3237.60 --> 3239.30] we get to chapter 16, -[3239.92 --> 3240.76] there is a map -[3240.76 --> 3241.42] that will appear -[3241.42 --> 3242.98] on the screen behind me -[3242.98 --> 3244.58] and you can kind of follow along. -[3244.70 --> 3246.18] The circles indicate -[3246.18 --> 3246.82] those places -[3246.82 --> 3248.76] that we're going to be talking about -[3248.76 --> 3249.96] as I bring them. -[3250.08 --> 3251.42] But Paul and Silas -[3251.42 --> 3253.00] are traveling together -[3253.00 --> 3254.22] on what is now -[3254.22 --> 3256.16] Paul's second missionary journey. -[3256.80 --> 3257.70] And so he had gone -[3257.70 --> 3259.52] through this region once -[3259.52 --> 3261.16] and then come back to Jerusalem -[3261.16 --> 3262.74] for the Jerusalem Council -[3262.74 --> 3264.22] where the leaders of the church -[3264.22 --> 3264.78] got together -[3264.78 --> 3266.08] and made some decisions -[3266.08 --> 3267.38] that impacted the mission -[3267.38 --> 3268.10] of the church -[3268.10 --> 3269.74] to the Gentile world. -[3270.08 --> 3271.18] And now Paul and Silas -[3271.18 --> 3272.54] are going out again. -[3273.32 --> 3274.26] And from Jerusalem -[3274.26 --> 3275.94] they travel north. -[3276.84 --> 3278.06] Now in Lystra -[3278.06 --> 3279.70] they collect Timothy -[3279.70 --> 3281.94] who will be Paul's companion -[3281.94 --> 3284.92] and who Paul will disciple -[3284.92 --> 3285.76] and mentor -[3285.76 --> 3287.76] for the rest of his life. -[3288.80 --> 3289.80] Now the first time -[3289.80 --> 3291.18] that Paul came to Lystra -[3291.18 --> 3292.84] on his first missionary journey -[3292.84 --> 3294.10] you can read a story -[3294.10 --> 3295.74] where he heals a man -[3295.74 --> 3297.06] who was lame from birth. -[3297.50 --> 3298.98] That means he could never walk. -[3299.84 --> 3301.00] And while he was there -[3301.00 --> 3302.36] and after healing the man -[3302.36 --> 3303.66] the people of Lystra -[3303.66 --> 3305.72] began to call Paul -[3305.72 --> 3307.46] and his companion then -[3307.46 --> 3308.24] Barnabas, -[3308.72 --> 3309.30] Hermes, -[3309.56 --> 3310.12] and Zeus. -[3311.28 --> 3312.06] And so Zeus -[3312.06 --> 3314.32] is the chief god -[3314.32 --> 3315.54] of the Greek pantheon -[3315.54 --> 3316.36] and Hermes -[3316.36 --> 3317.32] is his messenger. -[3318.02 --> 3318.70] And the book of Acts -[3318.70 --> 3319.66] tells us that they called -[3319.66 --> 3320.50] Paul Hermes -[3320.50 --> 3321.62] because he did the speaking. -[3323.32 --> 3324.04] And so the people -[3324.04 --> 3325.52] seeing what they had done -[3325.52 --> 3327.74] wanted to offer sacrifices -[3327.74 --> 3328.90] to Paul -[3328.90 --> 3329.80] and to Barnabas -[3329.80 --> 3331.88] as representatives -[3331.88 --> 3333.12] or incarnations -[3333.12 --> 3333.74] if you will -[3333.74 --> 3334.86] of Hermes -[3334.86 --> 3335.68] and Zeus. -[3335.86 --> 3336.22] But of course -[3336.22 --> 3336.88] Paul and Barnabas -[3336.88 --> 3337.20] are saying -[3337.20 --> 3338.66] no, don't do that, -[3338.74 --> 3339.54] don't do that. -[3339.88 --> 3340.62] But then -[3340.62 --> 3342.40] what often happens -[3342.40 --> 3343.16] when Paul is on -[3343.16 --> 3344.10] his missionary journeys -[3344.10 --> 3345.60] a group of others -[3345.60 --> 3346.88] follow after him -[3346.88 --> 3347.60] and particularly -[3347.60 --> 3348.62] Jewish leaders -[3348.62 --> 3349.80] follow after them -[3349.80 --> 3350.42] and cause trouble -[3350.42 --> 3351.04] for them. -[3352.38 --> 3353.20] And so this Jewish -[3353.20 --> 3354.46] group of leaders -[3354.46 --> 3355.00] come in -[3355.00 --> 3356.06] and they stir up -[3356.06 --> 3356.70] the crowds -[3356.70 --> 3357.52] against Paul -[3357.52 --> 3358.26] and Barnabas. -[3358.54 --> 3359.18] You can read this -[3359.18 --> 3360.06] in Acts 14 -[3360.06 --> 3362.68] stirring them up -[3362.68 --> 3364.02] because they're saying -[3364.02 --> 3364.92] don't worship us -[3364.92 --> 3365.40] and they wanted -[3365.40 --> 3366.18] to worship them -[3366.18 --> 3367.24] and so -[3367.24 --> 3368.46] because they are stirred -[3368.46 --> 3369.22] you can read -[3369.22 --> 3371.10] that they stoned him -[3371.10 --> 3371.86] that's Paul -[3371.86 --> 3372.58] and dragged him -[3372.58 --> 3373.56] outside of the city -[3373.56 --> 3374.52] thinking he was dead. -[3374.52 --> 3376.60] But then -[3376.60 --> 3377.92] after the disciples -[3377.92 --> 3378.92] gathered around him -[3378.92 --> 3379.48] and I'm assuming -[3379.48 --> 3380.24] that's to pray -[3380.24 --> 3381.50] he got up -[3381.50 --> 3382.48] and he went back -[3382.48 --> 3383.08] into the city. -[3384.18 --> 3385.16] That's pretty cool -[3385.16 --> 3385.72] as you read -[3385.72 --> 3386.32] these stories. -[3386.80 --> 3387.42] He's stoned -[3387.42 --> 3388.22] they think he's dead -[3388.22 --> 3389.26] they pray over him -[3389.26 --> 3389.80] he gets up -[3389.80 --> 3390.66] and what does he do? -[3390.74 --> 3391.78] He goes right back in -[3391.78 --> 3393.08] to the lion's dead. -[3394.34 --> 3395.02] The point there -[3395.02 --> 3396.18] and why I'm belaboring -[3396.18 --> 3396.78] this point here -[3396.78 --> 3397.54] is that Paul -[3397.54 --> 3398.40] and his companions -[3398.40 --> 3399.36] are familiar -[3399.36 --> 3400.36] with suffering -[3400.36 --> 3401.04] for the gospel. -[3401.04 --> 3403.30] Right? -[3403.38 --> 3403.88] And so now -[3403.88 --> 3405.16] in this journey -[3405.16 --> 3406.08] where we're picking up -[3406.08 --> 3406.68] our chapter -[3406.68 --> 3408.16] on the second missionary -[3408.16 --> 3409.26] journey from Lystra -[3409.26 --> 3410.02] after they gather -[3410.02 --> 3410.54] Timothy -[3410.54 --> 3412.36] they go to Troas -[3412.36 --> 3413.98] where it seems -[3413.98 --> 3415.08] that Luke joins them. -[3415.70 --> 3416.46] Luke is the author -[3416.46 --> 3418.22] of the book of Acts -[3418.22 --> 3418.60] here -[3418.60 --> 3420.10] and from there -[3420.10 --> 3420.92] they travel -[3420.92 --> 3422.32] around the northern -[3422.32 --> 3423.86] coast of the Aegean Sea -[3423.86 --> 3424.78] and they come -[3424.78 --> 3425.60] to Philippi -[3425.60 --> 3426.86] which we can read -[3426.86 --> 3428.48] is a leading city -[3428.48 --> 3429.96] in the Roman Empire -[3429.96 --> 3431.20] and that's where -[3431.20 --> 3432.06] he meets Lydia -[3432.06 --> 3433.68] and stays with her -[3433.68 --> 3434.28] for a while -[3434.28 --> 3436.18] and it's well -[3436.18 --> 3437.06] in Philippi -[3437.06 --> 3438.30] that our story -[3438.30 --> 3439.00] takes place. -[3439.72 --> 3440.14] Now the story -[3440.14 --> 3440.64] that we read -[3440.64 --> 3442.24] starts by saying -[3442.24 --> 3444.08] when we were going -[3444.08 --> 3444.76] to the place -[3444.76 --> 3445.32] of prayer. -[3446.40 --> 3447.18] Now in Philippi -[3447.18 --> 3449.10] Paul and the others -[3449.10 --> 3450.42] would go outside -[3450.42 --> 3451.52] the city gates -[3451.52 --> 3452.72] to a place -[3452.72 --> 3453.52] by a river -[3453.52 --> 3454.80] where they would -[3454.80 --> 3455.80] gather to pray. -[3456.70 --> 3457.88] Now this little detail -[3457.88 --> 3459.06] actually is really -[3459.06 --> 3459.94] informative for us -[3459.94 --> 3460.72] because it tells us -[3460.72 --> 3461.30] something about -[3461.30 --> 3462.78] the city of Philippi -[3462.78 --> 3463.64] and its makeup -[3463.64 --> 3465.32] because Paul's -[3465.32 --> 3466.22] ordinary practice -[3466.22 --> 3467.06] when he gets into -[3467.06 --> 3467.44] a city -[3467.44 --> 3468.56] is to go to the synagogue. -[3469.46 --> 3470.08] Now the synagogue -[3470.08 --> 3471.56] is the place -[3471.56 --> 3472.28] where the Jewish -[3472.28 --> 3473.46] population -[3473.46 --> 3474.40] primarily the men -[3474.40 --> 3475.06] would gather -[3475.06 --> 3476.56] for worship -[3476.56 --> 3477.60] for reading of the law -[3477.60 --> 3478.30] it's where Torah -[3478.30 --> 3479.18] school would happen -[3479.18 --> 3481.10] but in Philippi -[3481.10 --> 3482.04] there's likely -[3482.04 --> 3482.96] no synagogue -[3482.96 --> 3484.22] because the Jewish -[3484.22 --> 3484.78] population -[3484.78 --> 3485.72] is too small. -[3486.72 --> 3486.78] Right? -[3486.78 --> 3487.26] The synagogue -[3487.26 --> 3488.80] required ten Jewish -[3488.80 --> 3489.90] men to live -[3489.90 --> 3490.40] in the city -[3490.40 --> 3491.48] for them to found it -[3491.48 --> 3492.92] but because Paul -[3492.92 --> 3494.02] doesn't go to the synagogue -[3494.02 --> 3494.84] instead they go -[3494.84 --> 3495.42] to a place -[3495.42 --> 3496.54] outside the city -[3496.54 --> 3497.12] to pray -[3497.12 --> 3498.82] can likely conclude -[3498.82 --> 3499.74] that there's such -[3499.74 --> 3500.46] a small Jewish -[3500.46 --> 3501.46] population there -[3501.46 --> 3502.20] that they don't -[3502.20 --> 3502.74] have a synagogue -[3502.74 --> 3504.16] and so they go -[3504.16 --> 3505.10] to this place -[3505.10 --> 3507.08] where the small -[3507.08 --> 3508.24] gathering of people -[3508.24 --> 3509.28] happens outside -[3509.28 --> 3509.92] the city -[3509.92 --> 3510.90] by the river -[3510.90 --> 3512.66] and they would do -[3512.66 --> 3513.50] that as was -[3513.50 --> 3514.12] their practice -[3514.12 --> 3514.86] on the Sabbath -[3514.86 --> 3516.30] every week. -[3517.12 --> 3518.18] Now our story -[3518.18 --> 3519.72] is one of those journeys -[3519.72 --> 3521.06] because Paul is here -[3521.06 --> 3521.74] for a while -[3521.74 --> 3522.22] right? -[3522.28 --> 3523.10] And on the way -[3523.10 --> 3523.98] to this place -[3523.98 --> 3524.94] the journey that they made -[3524.94 --> 3525.86] probably weekly -[3525.86 --> 3527.80] a female slave -[3527.80 --> 3529.38] with a spirit -[3529.38 --> 3530.92] shouts them down -[3530.92 --> 3531.96] right? -[3532.00 --> 3532.60] And this would happen -[3532.60 --> 3533.48] week after week -[3533.48 --> 3534.26] as they journeyed. -[3534.42 --> 3535.24] Now it's kind of cool -[3535.24 --> 3535.86] or at least -[3535.86 --> 3536.64] I think it's cool -[3536.64 --> 3537.84] in Greek -[3537.84 --> 3539.26] it says -[3539.26 --> 3541.00] this female slave -[3541.00 --> 3542.92] has a python spirit. -[3544.22 --> 3545.22] A python spirit. -[3545.28 --> 3546.24] Now that's the name -[3546.24 --> 3547.38] of the serpent -[3547.38 --> 3548.78] that guards -[3548.78 --> 3549.62] the oracle -[3549.62 --> 3550.54] at Delphi. -[3550.94 --> 3551.44] If you know anything -[3551.44 --> 3552.46] about Greek mythology -[3552.46 --> 3554.30] the oracle at Delphi -[3554.30 --> 3555.42] is one of those -[3555.42 --> 3556.54] places on -[3556.54 --> 3557.50] Mount Parnassus -[3557.50 --> 3559.02] where leaders -[3559.02 --> 3560.14] and generals -[3560.14 --> 3561.54] and people of influence -[3561.54 --> 3562.16] would come -[3562.16 --> 3563.04] and they would ask -[3563.04 --> 3564.04] for a prophecy -[3564.04 --> 3565.62] or an affirmation -[3565.62 --> 3567.10] from this oracle -[3567.10 --> 3568.22] to bless -[3568.22 --> 3569.58] their efforts -[3569.58 --> 3570.40] or to discern -[3570.40 --> 3571.12] the fates. -[3572.02 --> 3572.90] And the story -[3572.90 --> 3573.84] in Greek mythology -[3573.84 --> 3575.88] is that at the foot -[3575.88 --> 3577.22] of Mount Parnassus -[3577.22 --> 3578.10] there was this -[3578.10 --> 3579.12] large python -[3579.12 --> 3580.34] this large serpent -[3580.34 --> 3581.38] and Apollo -[3581.38 --> 3582.82] comes and kills it. -[3583.96 --> 3584.50] Now Apollo -[3584.50 --> 3586.04] in the Greek pantheon -[3586.04 --> 3587.16] is known as -[3587.16 --> 3589.08] the one of the gods -[3589.08 --> 3589.64] of truth -[3589.64 --> 3590.50] and prophecy. -[3591.54 --> 3591.96] And so -[3591.96 --> 3593.32] when he establishes -[3593.32 --> 3594.96] the python spirit -[3594.96 --> 3595.92] in the oracle -[3595.92 --> 3596.76] at Delphi -[3596.76 --> 3598.04] it's a gift -[3598.04 --> 3598.76] of Apollo -[3598.76 --> 3599.86] in order to predict -[3599.86 --> 3600.58] the future -[3600.58 --> 3602.16] and to help -[3602.16 --> 3602.70] the people -[3602.70 --> 3604.20] reveal the fates -[3604.20 --> 3605.42] by unveiling -[3605.42 --> 3606.78] hidden truths. -[3608.02 --> 3608.68] And so -[3608.68 --> 3609.66] this woman -[3609.66 --> 3611.30] has a python -[3611.30 --> 3612.52] spirit -[3612.52 --> 3614.48] and all of this -[3614.48 --> 3615.56] mythology -[3615.56 --> 3616.88] is behind -[3616.88 --> 3618.14] the exchange. -[3619.72 --> 3620.46] So picture it, -[3620.52 --> 3620.68] right? -[3621.68 --> 3623.12] When she goes along -[3623.12 --> 3623.80] with Paul -[3623.80 --> 3624.64] and the group -[3624.64 --> 3625.76] she's shouting -[3625.76 --> 3627.50] these men -[3627.50 --> 3628.08] are servants -[3628.08 --> 3628.70] of the most -[3628.70 --> 3629.38] high God -[3629.38 --> 3630.40] who are telling -[3630.40 --> 3630.90] you the way -[3630.90 --> 3631.62] to be saved. -[3633.50 --> 3634.74] And she's not wrong. -[3636.54 --> 3637.02] Right? -[3637.08 --> 3637.84] She's revealing -[3637.84 --> 3638.96] these hidden truths. -[3640.62 --> 3641.32] And whether -[3641.32 --> 3642.16] it's her tone -[3642.16 --> 3642.76] maybe it was -[3642.76 --> 3643.38] dismissive -[3643.38 --> 3644.40] or condescending -[3644.40 --> 3645.72] or whether it's -[3645.72 --> 3646.22] just because -[3646.22 --> 3646.96] it was constant -[3646.96 --> 3647.54] irritation. -[3648.06 --> 3648.20] Right? -[3648.20 --> 3648.74] We read that -[3648.74 --> 3649.62] she kept this up -[3649.62 --> 3650.52] for many days. -[3650.52 --> 3651.84] Paul eventually -[3651.84 --> 3652.70] has enough. -[3653.60 --> 3654.52] And he turns -[3654.52 --> 3655.10] and he says -[3655.10 --> 3655.74] to the spirit -[3655.74 --> 3657.02] and notice -[3657.02 --> 3657.52] right? -[3657.64 --> 3658.44] Paul addresses -[3658.44 --> 3659.12] the spirit -[3659.12 --> 3660.86] not the slave girl. -[3661.44 --> 3662.50] He says to the spirit -[3662.50 --> 3664.34] in the name -[3664.34 --> 3665.58] of Jesus Christ -[3665.58 --> 3667.26] I command you -[3667.26 --> 3668.04] to come out -[3668.04 --> 3668.38] of her. -[3670.16 --> 3670.92] The thing I want us -[3670.92 --> 3671.76] to see first -[3671.76 --> 3672.94] here is the -[3672.94 --> 3674.68] spiritual reality -[3674.68 --> 3675.98] behind this -[3675.98 --> 3676.66] exchange. -[3678.26 --> 3678.98] These are more -[3678.98 --> 3680.06] than just words -[3680.06 --> 3681.08] or ideas -[3681.08 --> 3682.06] being thrown around. -[3682.98 --> 3683.08] Right? -[3683.14 --> 3683.68] For Paul -[3683.68 --> 3685.06] proclaiming the gospel -[3685.06 --> 3686.76] is a spiritual -[3686.76 --> 3687.32] battle -[3687.32 --> 3688.42] between the gods -[3688.42 --> 3689.26] of the age -[3689.26 --> 3690.74] and the most -[3690.74 --> 3691.82] high God. -[3693.80 --> 3694.74] I want to read -[3694.74 --> 3695.36] something for you -[3695.36 --> 3697.56] from Ephesians 6. -[3698.70 --> 3699.56] I'm going to read -[3699.56 --> 3700.14] ten verses -[3700.14 --> 3702.26] from Ephesians 6 -[3702.26 --> 3702.86] to help us -[3702.86 --> 3704.06] make this point -[3704.06 --> 3704.36] again. -[3705.42 --> 3706.50] This is a letter -[3706.50 --> 3707.74] that Paul writes -[3707.74 --> 3708.34] to the church -[3708.34 --> 3709.00] in Ephesus. -[3710.24 --> 3711.02] He says -[3711.02 --> 3712.54] finally -[3712.54 --> 3713.78] be strong -[3713.78 --> 3714.36] in the Lord -[3714.36 --> 3715.14] and in his -[3715.14 --> 3715.92] mighty power. -[3716.34 --> 3717.06] Put on the full -[3717.06 --> 3717.86] armor of God -[3717.86 --> 3718.52] so that you -[3718.52 --> 3719.30] can take your -[3719.30 --> 3720.12] stand against -[3720.12 --> 3721.54] the devil's schemes -[3721.54 --> 3722.42] for our struggle -[3722.42 --> 3723.22] is not against -[3723.22 --> 3724.40] flesh and blood -[3724.40 --> 3725.32] but against the rulers -[3725.32 --> 3726.38] and against the authorities -[3726.38 --> 3727.38] and against the powers -[3727.38 --> 3728.28] of this dark world -[3728.28 --> 3728.88] and against the -[3728.88 --> 3729.88] spiritual forces -[3729.88 --> 3730.84] of evil -[3730.84 --> 3731.84] in the heavenly realms. -[3732.60 --> 3732.92] Therefore -[3732.92 --> 3734.32] put on the full -[3734.32 --> 3735.14] armor of God -[3735.14 --> 3735.96] so that -[3735.96 --> 3736.78] when the day -[3736.78 --> 3737.70] of evil comes -[3737.70 --> 3738.54] you may be able -[3738.54 --> 3739.88] to stand your ground -[3739.88 --> 3740.92] and after you -[3740.92 --> 3742.02] have done everything -[3742.02 --> 3743.04] to stand. -[3744.04 --> 3744.86] Stand firm -[3744.86 --> 3745.86] then with the belt -[3745.86 --> 3746.40] of truth -[3746.40 --> 3747.80] buckled around your waist -[3747.80 --> 3748.64] with the breastplate -[3748.64 --> 3749.24] of righteousness -[3749.24 --> 3749.92] in place -[3749.92 --> 3750.96] and with your feet -[3750.96 --> 3752.10] fitted with readiness -[3752.10 --> 3752.88] that comes -[3752.88 --> 3753.86] from the gospel -[3753.86 --> 3754.42] of peace -[3754.42 --> 3756.46] and in addition -[3756.46 --> 3757.56] to all this -[3757.56 --> 3758.96] take up the shield -[3758.96 --> 3759.58] of faith -[3759.58 --> 3760.72] with which -[3760.72 --> 3761.98] you can extinguish -[3761.98 --> 3763.32] all the flaming arrows -[3763.32 --> 3764.24] of the evil one -[3764.24 --> 3765.72] take the helmet -[3765.72 --> 3766.44] of salvation -[3766.44 --> 3767.28] and the sword -[3767.28 --> 3767.98] of the spirit -[3767.98 --> 3769.02] which is the word -[3769.02 --> 3769.64] of God -[3769.64 --> 3771.16] and pray -[3771.16 --> 3772.16] in the spirit -[3772.16 --> 3773.40] on all occasions -[3773.40 --> 3774.46] with all kinds -[3774.46 --> 3775.26] of prayers -[3775.26 --> 3776.02] and requests -[3776.02 --> 3778.10] and with this in mind -[3778.10 --> 3778.80] be alert -[3778.80 --> 3780.00] and always keep -[3780.00 --> 3780.66] on praying -[3780.66 --> 3781.82] for the Lord's people -[3781.82 --> 3784.22] pray also for me -[3784.22 --> 3786.02] that whenever I speak -[3786.02 --> 3786.94] words may be given -[3786.94 --> 3787.30] to me -[3787.30 --> 3787.82] so that I will -[3787.82 --> 3789.10] fearlessly make known -[3789.10 --> 3789.92] the mystery -[3789.92 --> 3790.52] of the gospel -[3790.52 --> 3791.60] for which I am -[3791.60 --> 3792.18] an ambassador -[3792.18 --> 3793.50] in chains -[3793.50 --> 3796.18] pray that I may -[3796.18 --> 3797.48] declare it fearlessly -[3797.48 --> 3799.12] as I should -[3799.12 --> 3801.46] did you catch -[3801.46 --> 3802.40] what Paul says -[3802.40 --> 3804.88] he says that our struggle -[3804.88 --> 3805.84] isn't against flesh -[3805.84 --> 3806.32] and blood -[3806.32 --> 3807.26] but against powers -[3807.26 --> 3808.44] of this dark world -[3808.44 --> 3809.30] and against the spiritual -[3809.30 --> 3810.32] forces of evil -[3810.32 --> 3811.54] in the heavenly realms -[3811.54 --> 3813.02] and he says that the way -[3813.02 --> 3814.38] that we fight this battle -[3814.38 --> 3815.32] is to pray -[3815.32 --> 3816.06] in the spirit -[3816.06 --> 3817.38] on all occasions -[3817.38 --> 3818.82] armed with the word -[3818.82 --> 3819.36] of God -[3819.36 --> 3820.44] and with the song -[3820.44 --> 3821.48] more on that -[3821.48 --> 3821.84] in a moment -[3821.84 --> 3822.60] we'll come back to that -[3822.60 --> 3824.20] but Paul says -[3824.20 --> 3825.62] specifically in there -[3825.62 --> 3827.36] right in Ephesians text -[3827.36 --> 3828.44] to pray for him -[3828.44 --> 3830.34] so that whenever he speaks -[3830.34 --> 3832.12] words may be given to him -[3832.12 --> 3833.56] that he might fearlessly -[3833.56 --> 3834.62] make known -[3834.62 --> 3836.48] the mystery of the gospel -[3836.48 --> 3837.96] so that he could declare it -[3837.96 --> 3838.70] fearlessly -[3838.70 --> 3839.88] as he should -[3839.88 --> 3842.74] in a letter that Paul -[3842.74 --> 3843.58] writes to Timothy -[3843.58 --> 3844.78] he says -[3844.78 --> 3845.60] and he warns -[3845.60 --> 3847.92] some will abandon the faith -[3847.92 --> 3849.78] and follow deceiving spirits -[3849.78 --> 3850.42] and things -[3850.42 --> 3852.76] taught by demons -[3852.76 --> 3856.00] in case -[3856.00 --> 3857.98] I'm not being clear -[3857.98 --> 3859.10] enough yet -[3859.10 --> 3861.08] the gospel -[3861.08 --> 3862.76] is a message -[3862.76 --> 3864.88] of spiritual impact -[3864.88 --> 3866.86] and spiritual reality -[3866.86 --> 3868.84] and the battle -[3868.84 --> 3870.46] that Christians face -[3870.46 --> 3872.22] are first and foremost -[3872.22 --> 3874.40] spiritual battles -[3874.40 --> 3876.60] right when you talk -[3876.60 --> 3877.24] with your friends -[3877.24 --> 3877.88] at school -[3877.88 --> 3879.08] when you talk -[3879.08 --> 3879.84] with your colleagues -[3879.84 --> 3880.72] at work -[3880.72 --> 3881.42] about Jesus -[3881.42 --> 3882.72] and about the gospel -[3882.72 --> 3883.90] you are engaging -[3883.90 --> 3884.72] in more than just -[3884.72 --> 3885.92] an exchange of words -[3885.92 --> 3887.50] you are engaging -[3887.50 --> 3888.38] in a war -[3888.38 --> 3889.24] against the spirit -[3889.24 --> 3890.00] of this age -[3890.00 --> 3892.60] maybe -[3892.60 --> 3894.78] maybe some of us -[3894.78 --> 3896.48] are guilty -[3896.48 --> 3897.34] of approaching -[3897.34 --> 3898.46] these conversations -[3898.46 --> 3900.18] too casually -[3900.18 --> 3902.24] maybe some of us -[3902.24 --> 3902.68] are guilty -[3902.68 --> 3903.96] of approaching worship -[3903.96 --> 3904.90] of this moment -[3904.90 --> 3905.98] of sitting under -[3905.98 --> 3906.40] the preaching -[3906.40 --> 3906.90] of the word -[3906.90 --> 3908.04] too casually -[3908.04 --> 3909.74] because this is -[3909.74 --> 3910.98] a spiritual war -[3910.98 --> 3912.46] and a spiritual reality -[3912.46 --> 3913.20] and you are being -[3913.20 --> 3915.06] equipped for this battle -[3915.06 --> 3917.38] and like a mother -[3917.38 --> 3919.46] who pleads with God -[3919.46 --> 3920.12] daily -[3920.12 --> 3921.72] for her wandering children -[3921.72 --> 3923.06] we need to be -[3923.06 --> 3923.70] in prayer -[3923.70 --> 3924.92] for these kinds -[3924.92 --> 3925.70] of conversations -[3925.70 --> 3926.88] for these people -[3926.88 --> 3927.58] in our lives -[3927.58 --> 3929.16] we need to be -[3929.16 --> 3929.82] taking up -[3929.82 --> 3931.04] the word of God -[3931.04 --> 3932.28] the sword of truth -[3932.28 --> 3933.78] for these conversations -[3933.78 --> 3936.76] I was reading -[3936.76 --> 3938.00] an article -[3938.00 --> 3939.80] this week -[3939.80 --> 3941.58] that made -[3941.58 --> 3942.76] a really compelling -[3942.76 --> 3943.32] argument -[3943.32 --> 3945.60] for the best way -[3945.60 --> 3946.76] to share -[3946.76 --> 3947.86] the word of God -[3947.86 --> 3948.62] with people -[3948.62 --> 3950.96] being to start -[3950.96 --> 3952.52] by memorizing -[3952.52 --> 3953.64] the word of God -[3953.64 --> 3956.38] and so I guess -[3956.38 --> 3957.32] the simple question -[3957.32 --> 3958.06] for you -[3958.06 --> 3959.72] if you've ever -[3959.72 --> 3960.60] thought to yourself -[3960.60 --> 3962.88] oh I don't want -[3962.88 --> 3963.98] to have that conversation -[3963.98 --> 3965.40] because I don't know -[3965.40 --> 3966.32] what I'll have to say -[3966.32 --> 3967.62] or I don't want -[3967.62 --> 3968.26] to talk about Jesus -[3968.26 --> 3968.84] with that person -[3968.84 --> 3969.30] because what if -[3969.30 --> 3970.00] they ask me something -[3970.00 --> 3970.50] I don't know -[3970.50 --> 3971.56] the answer to -[3971.56 --> 3973.66] maybe one of the -[3973.66 --> 3974.16] disciplines -[3974.16 --> 3976.06] we need to start -[3976.06 --> 3976.78] taking up -[3976.78 --> 3978.58] is scripture memorization -[3978.58 --> 3980.38] that we might -[3980.38 --> 3981.42] have the word -[3981.42 --> 3981.84] of God -[3981.84 --> 3982.70] in us -[3982.70 --> 3983.64] so that we can -[3983.64 --> 3984.94] speak the word -[3984.94 --> 3985.42] of God -[3985.42 --> 3986.82] to those around us -[3986.82 --> 3991.82] and then -[3991.82 --> 3992.84] when you're -[3992.84 --> 3993.74] visiting with people -[3993.74 --> 3994.34] in the hospital -[3994.34 --> 3995.96] or whether you're -[3995.96 --> 3996.48] talking to them -[3996.48 --> 3997.04] on the train -[3997.04 --> 3998.56] you will always -[3998.56 --> 3999.22] have something -[3999.22 --> 4000.32] to say -[4000.32 --> 4001.44] you'll always -[4001.44 --> 4002.06] have something -[4002.06 --> 4003.44] to bring up -[4003.44 --> 4004.80] in fact -[4004.80 --> 4005.14] I think -[4005.14 --> 4006.34] scripture memorization -[4006.34 --> 4007.82] actually impacts -[4007.82 --> 4008.84] your prayer life -[4008.84 --> 4009.74] as well -[4009.74 --> 4010.22] right -[4010.22 --> 4010.56] but there's -[4010.56 --> 4011.10] there's -[4011.10 --> 4011.52] there's -[4011.52 --> 4012.32] there's something -[4012.32 --> 4013.02] beautiful -[4013.02 --> 4014.54] and compelling -[4014.54 --> 4015.90] about praying -[4015.90 --> 4016.58] the words -[4016.58 --> 4017.14] of scripture -[4017.14 --> 4017.94] out loud -[4017.94 --> 4018.62] with a person -[4018.62 --> 4019.48] in need -[4019.48 --> 4019.68] right -[4019.68 --> 4020.50] the voice -[4020.50 --> 4021.08] of Jesus -[4021.08 --> 4022.08] says so much -[4022.08 --> 4022.62] more than -[4022.62 --> 4023.30] the voice -[4023.30 --> 4024.06] of Chris -[4024.06 --> 4025.26] in that moment -[4025.26 --> 4027.62] and even -[4027.62 --> 4028.12] if people -[4028.12 --> 4029.02] aren't familiar -[4029.02 --> 4029.88] with the words -[4029.88 --> 4030.50] of God -[4030.50 --> 4031.68] I believe -[4031.68 --> 4032.46] that there's -[4032.46 --> 4033.08] something in -[4033.08 --> 4033.66] their heart -[4033.66 --> 4034.86] that connects -[4034.86 --> 4037.08] and that hears -[4037.08 --> 4038.70] in these words -[4038.70 --> 4039.30] from Jesus -[4039.30 --> 4041.78] now the next -[4041.78 --> 4042.24] thing then -[4042.24 --> 4043.52] that I want us -[4043.52 --> 4043.86] to see -[4043.86 --> 4044.96] from this text -[4044.96 --> 4045.58] in Acts -[4045.58 --> 4046.92] is that -[4046.92 --> 4048.26] that while -[4048.26 --> 4049.44] the the primary -[4049.44 --> 4050.36] point of the -[4050.36 --> 4050.96] conflict -[4050.96 --> 4052.28] is spiritual -[4052.28 --> 4053.80] right -[4053.80 --> 4055.04] the spiritual -[4055.04 --> 4056.16] touches -[4056.16 --> 4058.04] the material -[4058.04 --> 4060.04] that what -[4060.04 --> 4060.56] what happens -[4060.56 --> 4061.48] in this exchange -[4061.48 --> 4062.38] happens on the -[4062.38 --> 4063.02] spiritual level -[4063.02 --> 4064.16] but it impacts -[4064.16 --> 4065.12] the physical -[4065.12 --> 4065.86] level -[4065.86 --> 4066.56] right -[4066.56 --> 4067.30] notice what Paul -[4067.30 --> 4067.54] says -[4067.54 --> 4067.88] he says -[4067.88 --> 4068.98] I command you -[4068.98 --> 4069.46] in the name -[4069.46 --> 4070.40] of Jesus Christ -[4070.40 --> 4070.96] to come out -[4070.96 --> 4071.22] of her -[4071.22 --> 4071.70] and then Luke -[4071.70 --> 4071.96] writes -[4071.96 --> 4073.12] at that moment -[4073.12 --> 4073.74] the spirit -[4073.74 --> 4074.68] left her -[4074.68 --> 4075.22] and then Luke -[4075.22 --> 4075.68] tells us -[4075.68 --> 4076.42] this little bit -[4076.42 --> 4077.90] he says -[4077.90 --> 4078.78] her owners -[4078.78 --> 4079.60] realized -[4079.60 --> 4080.44] that their -[4080.44 --> 4081.04] hope of -[4081.04 --> 4081.80] making money -[4081.80 --> 4082.94] was gone -[4082.94 --> 4085.80] the spiritual -[4085.80 --> 4086.52] exchange -[4086.52 --> 4088.04] has an impact -[4088.04 --> 4089.16] on the physical -[4089.16 --> 4089.86] reality -[4089.86 --> 4090.90] of those who -[4090.90 --> 4091.46] are involved -[4091.46 --> 4092.62] right -[4092.62 --> 4093.32] these owners -[4093.32 --> 4094.10] had committed -[4094.10 --> 4094.54] themselves -[4094.54 --> 4095.70] to that spirit -[4095.70 --> 4096.52] in order to -[4096.52 --> 4097.06] make money -[4097.06 --> 4097.80] and now -[4097.80 --> 4098.46] that opportunity -[4098.46 --> 4099.04] is gone -[4099.04 --> 4102.02] you see -[4102.02 --> 4103.04] as we said -[4103.04 --> 4103.56] the gospel -[4103.56 --> 4104.44] is a spiritual -[4104.44 --> 4104.84] truth -[4104.84 --> 4105.50] for a spiritual -[4105.50 --> 4106.10] reality -[4106.10 --> 4106.90] but -[4106.90 --> 4107.64] it's not -[4107.64 --> 4108.44] only -[4108.44 --> 4110.26] a spiritual -[4110.26 --> 4111.62] reality -[4111.62 --> 4112.96] it's not -[4112.96 --> 4113.58] only -[4113.58 --> 4114.76] a spiritual -[4114.76 --> 4116.08] truth -[4116.08 --> 4119.46] now hear this -[4119.46 --> 4119.68] okay -[4119.68 --> 4120.70] because yes -[4120.70 --> 4121.06] it is -[4121.06 --> 4121.70] it is more -[4121.70 --> 4122.24] true -[4122.24 --> 4123.50] it is true -[4123.50 --> 4124.08] that I am -[4124.08 --> 4124.98] more sinful -[4124.98 --> 4125.80] than I would -[4125.80 --> 4126.46] ever admit -[4126.46 --> 4127.18] or even know -[4127.18 --> 4127.92] how to confess -[4127.92 --> 4129.44] and it is -[4129.44 --> 4129.66] true -[4129.66 --> 4130.04] that my -[4130.04 --> 4130.66] rebellion -[4130.66 --> 4131.64] against God -[4131.64 --> 4132.24] and the -[4132.24 --> 4132.58] rebellion -[4132.58 --> 4132.94] of our -[4132.94 --> 4133.68] first parents -[4133.68 --> 4134.52] Adam and Eve -[4134.52 --> 4135.14] in the garden -[4135.14 --> 4136.10] has broken -[4136.10 --> 4137.02] my relationship -[4137.02 --> 4137.52] to God -[4137.52 --> 4138.56] right -[4138.56 --> 4139.22] the relationship -[4139.22 --> 4139.96] that all of us -[4139.96 --> 4140.64] were created -[4140.64 --> 4141.52] to live in -[4141.52 --> 4142.48] and out of -[4142.48 --> 4144.14] and now -[4144.14 --> 4144.96] it's true -[4144.96 --> 4145.62] that everything -[4145.62 --> 4146.10] I do -[4146.10 --> 4146.80] is marred -[4146.80 --> 4147.58] with the stain -[4147.58 --> 4149.02] of this sin -[4149.02 --> 4149.66] this is the -[4149.66 --> 4151.02] spiritual reality -[4151.02 --> 4152.30] that I am in -[4152.30 --> 4153.38] the spiritual -[4153.38 --> 4154.18] reality that we -[4154.18 --> 4155.22] are all in -[4155.22 --> 4155.60] whether you -[4155.60 --> 4156.44] believe the Bible -[4156.44 --> 4157.54] is true or not -[4157.54 --> 4157.74] right -[4157.74 --> 4157.96] because you -[4157.96 --> 4158.26] don't have to -[4158.26 --> 4159.04] believe the Bible -[4159.04 --> 4159.50] to be true -[4159.50 --> 4160.66] for this reality -[4160.66 --> 4161.58] to be true -[4161.58 --> 4165.28] but it's also -[4165.28 --> 4165.82] true -[4165.82 --> 4167.46] it is also -[4167.46 --> 4168.02] true -[4168.02 --> 4168.86] that I am -[4168.86 --> 4169.68] more loved -[4169.68 --> 4170.28] by God -[4170.28 --> 4170.66] than I could -[4170.66 --> 4171.38] ever imagine -[4171.38 --> 4171.90] possible -[4171.90 --> 4172.94] it's also true -[4172.94 --> 4173.52] that out of -[4173.52 --> 4174.64] this amazing -[4174.64 --> 4175.82] love for us -[4175.82 --> 4176.60] God came -[4176.60 --> 4177.68] into the world -[4177.68 --> 4178.92] in Jesus Christ -[4178.92 --> 4179.64] that Jesus -[4179.64 --> 4180.32] was born -[4180.32 --> 4181.14] and he lived -[4181.14 --> 4182.02] a life of -[4182.02 --> 4183.12] perfect righteousness -[4183.12 --> 4184.14] keeping the -[4184.14 --> 4184.88] commands of the -[4184.88 --> 4185.14] law -[4185.14 --> 4186.08] and pleasing -[4186.08 --> 4187.36] God perfectly -[4187.36 --> 4188.72] in our place -[4188.72 --> 4189.76] and that the -[4189.76 --> 4190.44] same Jesus -[4190.44 --> 4191.18] even though -[4191.18 --> 4192.10] he was perfect -[4192.10 --> 4193.28] died the death -[4193.28 --> 4194.24] that I deserved -[4194.24 --> 4195.26] died the death -[4195.26 --> 4195.84] that I deserve -[4195.84 --> 4196.42] as the wrath -[4196.42 --> 4196.84] of God -[4196.84 --> 4198.10] for my sin -[4198.10 --> 4199.94] right on the cross -[4199.94 --> 4200.78] Jesus took -[4200.78 --> 4202.20] your punishment -[4202.20 --> 4204.10] he bore the wrath -[4204.10 --> 4204.78] of God -[4204.78 --> 4205.40] for the broken -[4205.40 --> 4206.16] relationship -[4206.16 --> 4207.06] that we now -[4207.06 --> 4208.10] live out of -[4208.10 --> 4208.80] in order to -[4208.80 --> 4209.68] restore that -[4209.68 --> 4210.18] relationship -[4210.18 --> 4210.82] because three -[4210.82 --> 4211.50] days later -[4211.50 --> 4212.70] this same Jesus -[4212.70 --> 4213.46] was raised -[4213.46 --> 4214.48] from the dead -[4214.48 --> 4215.12] victorious -[4215.12 --> 4216.10] defeating death -[4216.10 --> 4217.24] defeating the devil -[4217.24 --> 4218.42] he was raised -[4218.42 --> 4218.96] in victory -[4218.96 --> 4219.58] and now he -[4219.58 --> 4220.30] grants us -[4220.30 --> 4221.26] new life -[4221.26 --> 4222.06] through the spirit -[4222.06 --> 4224.14] and so now -[4224.14 --> 4226.24] I have a new -[4226.24 --> 4228.30] spiritual reality -[4228.30 --> 4229.24] by grace -[4229.24 --> 4230.10] through faith -[4230.10 --> 4230.68] but it's a -[4230.68 --> 4231.82] spiritual reality -[4231.82 --> 4233.24] that directly -[4233.24 --> 4234.08] touches -[4234.08 --> 4236.28] the physical -[4236.28 --> 4237.36] reality of my life -[4237.36 --> 4239.16] and every moment -[4239.16 --> 4240.40] I see -[4240.40 --> 4241.02] because you see -[4241.02 --> 4243.16] since Jesus -[4243.16 --> 4243.96] is raised -[4243.96 --> 4244.88] from the dead -[4244.88 --> 4245.96] that changes -[4245.96 --> 4247.04] everything -[4247.04 --> 4248.58] since Jesus -[4248.58 --> 4249.20] has ascended -[4249.20 --> 4250.08] to the right hand -[4250.08 --> 4251.36] of God the Father -[4251.36 --> 4252.24] and he sits -[4252.24 --> 4252.90] as Lord -[4252.90 --> 4254.26] over all the universe -[4254.26 --> 4254.86] that changes -[4254.86 --> 4255.56] everything -[4255.56 --> 4257.10] about how we live -[4257.10 --> 4257.58] here -[4257.58 --> 4258.90] and now -[4258.90 --> 4260.96] right the gospel -[4260.96 --> 4261.94] is the truth -[4261.94 --> 4262.76] of Jesus -[4262.76 --> 4264.02] and by living -[4264.02 --> 4265.56] by the gospel -[4265.56 --> 4266.58] and living -[4266.58 --> 4267.44] by the gospel -[4267.44 --> 4268.40] is living -[4268.40 --> 4269.44] in the trust -[4269.44 --> 4270.84] of Jesus -[4270.84 --> 4273.48] and that's what it means -[4273.48 --> 4274.22] to be Christian -[4274.22 --> 4275.52] right -[4275.52 --> 4276.34] to be Christian -[4276.34 --> 4277.54] theologically -[4277.54 --> 4279.16] theological definition -[4279.16 --> 4280.02] of being a Christian -[4280.02 --> 4280.86] means to share -[4280.86 --> 4282.02] in the anointing -[4282.02 --> 4282.98] of Christ -[4282.98 --> 4284.42] right -[4284.42 --> 4284.98] to share -[4284.98 --> 4285.72] in the anointing -[4285.72 --> 4286.16] of Christ -[4286.16 --> 4287.56] to be restored -[4287.56 --> 4288.52] in relationship -[4288.52 --> 4289.32] to the Father -[4289.32 --> 4290.94] and to be a Christian -[4290.94 --> 4291.56] practically -[4291.56 --> 4292.48] the way that -[4292.48 --> 4293.60] theological truth -[4293.60 --> 4294.22] works out -[4294.22 --> 4294.62] the way that -[4294.62 --> 4295.64] spiritual reality -[4295.64 --> 4296.80] is worked out -[4296.80 --> 4297.36] in our life -[4297.36 --> 4298.22] is to trust -[4298.22 --> 4299.48] Jesus more -[4299.48 --> 4300.28] than you trust -[4300.28 --> 4300.80] yourself -[4300.80 --> 4305.92] by grace -[4305.92 --> 4306.64] through faith -[4306.64 --> 4307.76] we share -[4307.76 --> 4308.70] in the anointing -[4308.70 --> 4310.14] of Christ -[4310.14 --> 4311.42] and so -[4311.42 --> 4312.12] the life -[4312.12 --> 4312.60] we are called -[4312.60 --> 4313.08] to live -[4313.08 --> 4313.50] is one -[4313.50 --> 4314.26] that trusts -[4314.26 --> 4316.14] in him -[4316.14 --> 4318.88] and when our lives -[4318.88 --> 4319.48] are characterized -[4319.48 --> 4320.50] by this kind -[4320.50 --> 4321.40] of trust -[4321.40 --> 4322.70] right -[4322.70 --> 4323.92] that's a reality -[4323.92 --> 4324.92] defining -[4324.92 --> 4325.92] power -[4325.92 --> 4326.78] and of course -[4326.80 --> 4327.46] then -[4327.46 --> 4328.08] the physical -[4328.08 --> 4328.66] reality -[4328.66 --> 4329.18] of the world -[4329.18 --> 4329.66] that we live -[4329.66 --> 4329.82] in -[4329.82 --> 4330.38] of course -[4330.38 --> 4330.82] the world -[4330.82 --> 4331.40] that we're part -[4331.40 --> 4331.54] of -[4331.54 --> 4332.40] is impacted -[4332.40 --> 4333.34] by the spiritual -[4333.34 --> 4334.08] truth of God -[4334.08 --> 4335.66] because it's a reality -[4335.66 --> 4336.80] defining truth -[4336.80 --> 4338.18] that's what Jesus does -[4338.18 --> 4339.76] he spoke reality -[4339.76 --> 4340.78] into beginning -[4340.78 --> 4341.98] or into existence -[4341.98 --> 4342.80] at the beginning -[4342.80 --> 4344.00] and he continues -[4344.00 --> 4345.00] to speak -[4345.00 --> 4345.60] the truth -[4345.60 --> 4346.26] of his word -[4346.26 --> 4347.34] recreating you -[4347.34 --> 4348.28] transforming you -[4348.28 --> 4349.86] into his image -[4349.86 --> 4351.04] by that same -[4351.04 --> 4351.70] word -[4351.70 --> 4352.44] right now -[4352.44 --> 4353.46] right here -[4353.46 --> 4354.12] today -[4354.12 --> 4356.02] and that -[4356.02 --> 4356.90] changes -[4356.90 --> 4358.10] everything -[4358.10 --> 4361.38] and here's -[4361.38 --> 4361.80] the thing -[4361.80 --> 4364.10] because this is -[4364.10 --> 4364.70] where that starts -[4364.70 --> 4365.44] to rub -[4365.44 --> 4366.46] up against -[4366.46 --> 4367.30] the sort -[4367.30 --> 4368.04] of nebulous -[4368.04 --> 4369.14] and anemic -[4369.14 --> 4370.82] idea of spirituality -[4370.82 --> 4371.56] in the world -[4371.56 --> 4371.92] today -[4371.92 --> 4373.52] right people -[4373.52 --> 4374.44] in our world -[4374.44 --> 4374.76] today -[4374.76 --> 4377.02] are rediscovering -[4377.02 --> 4378.14] spirituality -[4378.14 --> 4379.40] right -[4379.40 --> 4380.62] 20 years ago -[4380.62 --> 4381.06] or so -[4381.06 --> 4381.96] when the so-called -[4381.96 --> 4382.88] new atheist movement -[4382.88 --> 4383.78] was in full swing -[4383.78 --> 4384.66] everyone was saying -[4384.66 --> 4385.26] this is the end -[4385.26 --> 4385.68] of religion -[4385.68 --> 4386.30] this is the end -[4386.30 --> 4387.06] of spirituality -[4387.06 --> 4388.10] right -[4388.10 --> 4389.56] reason will finally reign -[4389.56 --> 4390.56] and guess what -[4390.56 --> 4391.42] that didn't happen -[4391.42 --> 4393.44] people are looking -[4393.44 --> 4394.82] to re-enchant -[4394.82 --> 4395.40] the world -[4395.40 --> 4396.56] to find a magic -[4396.56 --> 4397.16] again -[4397.16 --> 4397.80] and a power -[4397.80 --> 4398.20] again -[4398.20 --> 4399.18] in this world -[4399.18 --> 4399.62] they're looking -[4399.62 --> 4400.42] to rediscover -[4400.42 --> 4401.32] spirituality -[4401.32 --> 4402.12] but the spirituality -[4402.12 --> 4403.66] that's being discovered -[4403.66 --> 4404.94] apart from the gospel -[4404.94 --> 4407.46] is one that isn't -[4407.46 --> 4408.82] satisfying -[4408.82 --> 4409.66] in fact people -[4409.66 --> 4410.48] are looking -[4410.48 --> 4411.46] for a spirituality -[4411.46 --> 4413.38] that doesn't change -[4413.38 --> 4414.14] too much -[4414.14 --> 4415.20] about their lives -[4415.20 --> 4417.44] right people -[4417.44 --> 4418.64] want to be spiritual -[4418.64 --> 4420.36] as long as all it does -[4420.36 --> 4421.28] is bring them peace -[4421.28 --> 4422.20] and comfort -[4422.20 --> 4426.92] but Jesus will not -[4426.92 --> 4428.76] he cannot -[4428.76 --> 4430.22] share the throne -[4430.22 --> 4431.24] of your heart -[4431.24 --> 4433.26] so if -[4433.26 --> 4434.34] in your heart of hearts -[4434.34 --> 4435.42] you really love -[4435.42 --> 4435.88] business -[4435.88 --> 4436.70] or you really love -[4436.70 --> 4437.34] making money -[4437.34 --> 4438.26] and the status -[4438.26 --> 4439.18] that that gives you -[4439.18 --> 4439.96] in society -[4439.96 --> 4441.24] but when Jesus -[4441.24 --> 4442.12] starts pushing -[4442.12 --> 4443.14] on that trigger -[4443.14 --> 4444.74] you have a choice -[4444.74 --> 4445.24] to make -[4445.24 --> 4447.64] do you submit -[4447.64 --> 4448.54] and do you trust -[4448.54 --> 4449.16] Jesus -[4449.16 --> 4450.16] more than you -[4450.16 --> 4450.84] trust yourself -[4450.84 --> 4452.30] or -[4452.30 --> 4453.44] do you push him -[4453.44 --> 4453.84] back -[4453.84 --> 4455.64] and hold him -[4455.64 --> 4456.32] at arm's length -[4456.32 --> 4459.44] the people -[4459.44 --> 4460.12] in our story -[4460.12 --> 4460.82] pushed back -[4460.82 --> 4462.66] they took Paul -[4462.66 --> 4463.30] and Silas -[4463.30 --> 4463.98] to the marketplace -[4463.98 --> 4465.26] and they had a trial -[4465.26 --> 4466.98] the charge -[4466.98 --> 4467.92] was that -[4467.92 --> 4468.50] these men -[4468.50 --> 4469.24] are Jews -[4469.24 --> 4469.64] and they're -[4469.64 --> 4470.40] throwing our city -[4470.40 --> 4471.18] into an uproar -[4471.18 --> 4471.90] by advocating -[4471.90 --> 4472.48] customs -[4472.48 --> 4473.36] unlawful -[4473.36 --> 4473.92] for Romans -[4473.92 --> 4474.62] to accept -[4474.62 --> 4475.64] or practice -[4475.64 --> 4477.22] now that the charge -[4477.22 --> 4477.98] was that these men -[4477.98 --> 4478.50] are Jews -[4478.50 --> 4479.56] and that's disturbing -[4479.56 --> 4480.00] the peace -[4480.00 --> 4481.00] also I think -[4481.00 --> 4481.88] underscores the point -[4481.88 --> 4482.52] that it's probably -[4482.52 --> 4483.42] just a small -[4483.42 --> 4484.42] Jewish population -[4484.42 --> 4485.02] a very small -[4485.02 --> 4485.80] Jewish population -[4485.80 --> 4486.96] in Philippi -[4486.96 --> 4488.24] and the kinds -[4488.24 --> 4488.92] of things -[4488.92 --> 4490.48] that upset -[4490.48 --> 4491.46] the customs -[4491.46 --> 4493.38] and the practices -[4493.38 --> 4494.50] and behaviors -[4494.50 --> 4495.12] lawful -[4495.12 --> 4495.80] to Romans -[4495.80 --> 4496.46] unlawful -[4496.46 --> 4497.02] for Romans -[4497.02 --> 4497.92] is -[4497.92 --> 4499.14] worshipping -[4499.14 --> 4500.22] one God -[4500.22 --> 4500.82] alone -[4500.82 --> 4502.38] or is -[4502.38 --> 4503.54] for instance -[4503.54 --> 4505.06] participating -[4505.06 --> 4506.32] in the Lord's -[4506.32 --> 4506.56] Supper -[4506.56 --> 4507.60] right -[4507.60 --> 4508.18] one of the early -[4508.18 --> 4508.70] Christian -[4508.70 --> 4509.80] or one of the charges -[4509.80 --> 4510.50] that Romans -[4510.50 --> 4511.26] gave to the early -[4511.26 --> 4511.66] Christians -[4511.66 --> 4512.42] was that we -[4512.42 --> 4513.20] are cannibals -[4513.20 --> 4514.98] because Jesus -[4514.98 --> 4515.44] says -[4515.44 --> 4517.06] eat my flesh -[4517.06 --> 4518.52] and drink my blood -[4518.52 --> 4519.20] and we participate -[4519.20 --> 4520.00] in the Lord's Supper -[4520.00 --> 4520.94] but these are -[4520.94 --> 4522.06] unlawful customs -[4522.06 --> 4523.22] for the Romans -[4523.22 --> 4524.18] to accept -[4524.18 --> 4526.18] now -[4526.18 --> 4527.48] in Greek -[4527.48 --> 4528.52] and Roman cities -[4528.52 --> 4529.82] the marketplace -[4529.82 --> 4531.98] is a gathering place -[4531.98 --> 4532.66] it's a place -[4532.66 --> 4533.42] where all the people -[4533.42 --> 4534.00] would come -[4534.00 --> 4535.48] and make exchanges -[4535.48 --> 4536.08] where they would -[4536.08 --> 4536.70] come to hear -[4536.70 --> 4537.90] and receive the -[4537.90 --> 4538.76] news reports -[4538.76 --> 4539.54] and the updates -[4539.54 --> 4540.68] it's the place -[4540.68 --> 4541.64] where the leaders -[4541.64 --> 4542.28] would gather -[4542.28 --> 4542.94] and they would have -[4542.94 --> 4544.14] their days -[4544.14 --> 4544.96] where they could sit -[4544.96 --> 4545.90] and hold trial -[4545.90 --> 4547.20] and so that's -[4547.20 --> 4548.72] that is where they go -[4548.72 --> 4549.54] makes sense -[4549.54 --> 4550.34] culturally -[4550.34 --> 4551.68] we don't have -[4551.68 --> 4552.28] a marketplace -[4552.28 --> 4553.62] like that anymore -[4553.62 --> 4554.24] right -[4554.24 --> 4554.90] it's not like -[4554.90 --> 4556.10] after church -[4556.10 --> 4556.60] we're all going to -[4556.60 --> 4557.62] go up to Ralph's -[4557.62 --> 4558.36] in order to hear -[4558.36 --> 4559.00] the announcements -[4559.00 --> 4559.76] of what's happening -[4559.76 --> 4560.52] in the week to come -[4560.52 --> 4562.82] but -[4562.82 --> 4564.88] market economics -[4564.88 --> 4567.14] or our ideas -[4567.14 --> 4568.00] of wealth -[4568.00 --> 4569.54] are still -[4569.54 --> 4570.48] significant -[4570.48 --> 4571.28] drivers -[4571.28 --> 4572.88] of what we are -[4572.88 --> 4573.56] now seeing -[4573.56 --> 4574.68] is a spiritual -[4574.68 --> 4575.98] conflict -[4575.98 --> 4577.46] right -[4577.46 --> 4578.14] Jesus himself -[4578.14 --> 4578.64] says -[4578.64 --> 4579.32] where your -[4579.32 --> 4580.14] treasure is -[4580.14 --> 4580.64] there your -[4580.64 --> 4581.42] heart will be -[4581.42 --> 4582.10] also -[4582.10 --> 4583.98] and so the reality -[4583.98 --> 4585.26] of worshipping money -[4585.26 --> 4586.96] is still one of the -[4586.96 --> 4587.90] chief idols -[4587.90 --> 4588.62] of course -[4588.62 --> 4589.72] in our world -[4589.72 --> 4590.12] today -[4590.12 --> 4591.60] and in this story -[4591.60 --> 4593.38] we read in verse 22 -[4593.38 --> 4594.34] that the crowd -[4594.34 --> 4595.46] joined in the attack -[4595.46 --> 4596.12] against Paul -[4596.12 --> 4596.72] and Silas -[4596.72 --> 4597.46] and the magistrates -[4597.46 --> 4598.22] ordered them to be -[4598.22 --> 4598.98] stripped and beaten -[4598.98 --> 4599.56] with rods -[4599.56 --> 4600.94] and after they had -[4600.94 --> 4602.06] been severely flogged -[4602.06 --> 4602.60] they were thrown -[4602.60 --> 4603.18] into prison -[4603.18 --> 4603.96] and a jailer -[4603.96 --> 4604.68] was commanded -[4604.68 --> 4605.52] to guard them -[4605.52 --> 4606.22] carefully -[4606.22 --> 4609.04] see not only -[4609.04 --> 4610.26] does proclaiming -[4610.26 --> 4610.80] the gospel -[4610.80 --> 4611.40] brush up -[4611.40 --> 4612.24] against the spirit -[4612.24 --> 4612.94] of the age -[4612.94 --> 4614.74] and have an impact -[4614.74 --> 4615.58] on the physical -[4615.58 --> 4616.82] reality of the world -[4616.82 --> 4617.52] around them -[4617.52 --> 4619.84] proclaiming the gospel -[4619.84 --> 4620.82] has an impact -[4620.82 --> 4621.80] on the physical -[4621.80 --> 4622.92] reality of those -[4622.92 --> 4623.88] who proclaim -[4623.88 --> 4624.74] the gospel -[4624.74 --> 4626.06] of those who speak it -[4626.06 --> 4627.04] right -[4627.04 --> 4627.78] this is an example -[4627.78 --> 4628.86] of Paul -[4628.86 --> 4629.88] in persecution -[4629.88 --> 4631.02] that he was -[4631.02 --> 4631.74] familiar with -[4631.74 --> 4633.28] this is an example -[4633.28 --> 4634.22] of what happens -[4634.22 --> 4635.64] when the spirits -[4635.64 --> 4636.84] of the age -[4636.84 --> 4637.92] are in a battle -[4637.92 --> 4639.52] with the most high God -[4639.52 --> 4641.98] and Jesus warned -[4641.98 --> 4643.52] he said to his disciples -[4643.52 --> 4645.72] that you would have -[4645.72 --> 4647.78] trouble in this world -[4647.78 --> 4648.68] Jesus warned -[4648.68 --> 4649.94] he said to his disciples -[4649.94 --> 4650.90] that whoever wants -[4650.90 --> 4651.46] to be holy -[4651.46 --> 4652.38] will be persecuted -[4652.38 --> 4653.52] Jesus warned -[4653.52 --> 4654.20] his disciples -[4654.20 --> 4655.02] and he said to them -[4655.02 --> 4656.42] the world will hate you -[4656.42 --> 4658.06] because it hated me first -[4658.06 --> 4660.68] and for Paul -[4660.68 --> 4662.42] and for some of us -[4662.42 --> 4663.48] more than others -[4663.48 --> 4664.32] for Christians -[4664.32 --> 4665.42] in places -[4665.42 --> 4666.82] perhaps other than -[4666.82 --> 4668.10] this one right here -[4668.10 --> 4669.88] this is the ordinary -[4669.88 --> 4672.20] cost of discipleship -[4672.20 --> 4674.02] this is what it means -[4674.02 --> 4675.22] to take up your cross -[4675.22 --> 4675.96] and to follow -[4675.96 --> 4677.64] after him -[4677.64 --> 4679.50] now -[4679.50 --> 4682.08] don't hear what I'm not saying -[4682.08 --> 4682.40] because -[4682.40 --> 4683.62] I pray -[4683.62 --> 4686.10] that this never happens -[4686.10 --> 4686.64] to us -[4686.64 --> 4688.72] I pray -[4688.72 --> 4689.22] that we never -[4689.22 --> 4689.94] have to endure -[4689.94 --> 4691.56] this kind of -[4691.56 --> 4692.54] reality -[4692.54 --> 4697.06] but it might -[4697.06 --> 4699.92] and if it does -[4699.92 --> 4702.78] I don't want it said -[4702.78 --> 4704.40] of Langley Emanuel Church -[4704.40 --> 4705.44] that we weren't ready -[4705.44 --> 4708.32] that we didn't expect it -[4708.32 --> 4709.58] right -[4709.58 --> 4710.38] I'm praying -[4710.38 --> 4712.06] that we are ready -[4712.06 --> 4713.82] and then notice -[4713.82 --> 4714.18] here -[4714.18 --> 4714.44] right -[4714.44 --> 4715.10] as we get -[4715.10 --> 4715.74] ready -[4715.74 --> 4716.90] as we are -[4716.90 --> 4717.40] prepared -[4717.40 --> 4717.84] notice -[4717.84 --> 4719.74] what Paul and Silas do -[4719.74 --> 4722.06] they're in jail -[4722.06 --> 4722.86] in prison -[4722.86 --> 4723.82] in stocks -[4723.82 --> 4725.30] their feet are bound -[4725.30 --> 4726.76] about midnight -[4726.76 --> 4728.22] Paul and Silas -[4728.22 --> 4728.88] were praying -[4728.88 --> 4729.92] and singing -[4729.92 --> 4730.86] hymns -[4730.86 --> 4731.76] to God -[4731.76 --> 4734.34] now earlier -[4734.34 --> 4734.80] I said -[4734.80 --> 4735.44] the way that we -[4735.44 --> 4736.36] fight this battle -[4736.36 --> 4736.96] is to pray -[4736.96 --> 4737.54] in the spirit -[4737.54 --> 4738.60] on all occasions -[4738.60 --> 4740.06] armed with the word -[4740.06 --> 4740.72] of God -[4740.72 --> 4743.74] and to sing -[4743.74 --> 4747.18] and to sing -[4747.18 --> 4749.54] brothers and sisters -[4749.54 --> 4750.94] the gospel -[4750.94 --> 4752.10] the gospel -[4752.10 --> 4753.22] pushes back -[4753.22 --> 4755.18] against the spirit -[4755.18 --> 4755.82] of this age -[4755.82 --> 4757.88] prayer -[4757.88 --> 4758.94] pushes back -[4758.94 --> 4760.12] against the spirit -[4760.12 --> 4761.04] of this age -[4761.04 --> 4762.72] the word of God -[4762.72 --> 4763.28] proclaimed -[4763.28 --> 4764.28] pushes back -[4764.28 --> 4765.40] against the spirit -[4765.40 --> 4766.38] of this age -[4766.38 --> 4767.64] songs -[4767.64 --> 4768.14] hymns -[4768.14 --> 4769.30] and spiritual songs -[4769.30 --> 4770.26] push back -[4770.26 --> 4771.40] against the spirit -[4771.40 --> 4772.48] of this age -[4772.48 --> 4774.98] this is what it looks like -[4774.98 --> 4775.92] to find strength -[4775.92 --> 4776.72] in God -[4776.72 --> 4777.36] in the face -[4777.36 --> 4777.96] of trial -[4777.96 --> 4779.00] and persecution -[4779.00 --> 4780.24] and so -[4780.24 --> 4781.28] I pray -[4781.28 --> 4782.76] will you push -[4782.76 --> 4784.16] with me -[4784.16 --> 4787.40] push back -[4787.40 --> 4788.24] against the spirit -[4788.24 --> 4788.82] of this age -[4788.82 --> 4790.08] that confuses -[4790.08 --> 4790.78] rather than -[4790.78 --> 4791.64] clarifies -[4791.64 --> 4792.30] push back -[4792.30 --> 4792.88] against the spirit -[4792.88 --> 4793.36] of this age -[4793.36 --> 4794.10] that divides -[4794.10 --> 4794.88] rather than -[4794.88 --> 4795.70] pulls together -[4795.70 --> 4796.50] push back -[4796.50 --> 4797.16] against the spirit -[4797.16 --> 4797.70] of this age -[4797.70 --> 4798.32] that wants to -[4798.32 --> 4799.36] separate children -[4799.36 --> 4799.96] from parents -[4799.96 --> 4800.40] and parents -[4800.40 --> 4800.86] from children -[4800.86 --> 4801.66] push back -[4801.66 --> 4802.26] against the spirit -[4802.26 --> 4802.74] of this age -[4802.74 --> 4803.02] that says -[4803.02 --> 4804.00] you are not -[4804.00 --> 4804.68] worthy -[4804.68 --> 4805.54] you are not -[4805.54 --> 4806.18] valued -[4806.18 --> 4807.02] you are not -[4807.02 --> 4807.56] loved -[4807.56 --> 4808.14] push back -[4808.14 --> 4808.86] against the spirit -[4808.86 --> 4809.50] of this age -[4809.50 --> 4810.04] that seeks -[4810.04 --> 4810.54] to sow -[4810.54 --> 4811.20] chaos -[4811.20 --> 4812.16] and discord -[4812.16 --> 4813.24] push back -[4813.24 --> 4814.52] with a song -[4814.52 --> 4816.04] push back -[4816.04 --> 4816.68] with the word -[4816.68 --> 4817.14] of God -[4817.14 --> 4817.68] proclaimed -[4817.68 --> 4818.50] push back -[4818.50 --> 4819.68] by being deeply -[4819.68 --> 4821.04] in prayer -[4821.04 --> 4823.04] make no mistake -[4823.04 --> 4823.54] about it -[4823.54 --> 4824.50] we are in -[4824.50 --> 4825.60] a spiritual battle -[4825.60 --> 4826.50] but it is a spiritual -[4826.50 --> 4827.36] battle that is being -[4827.36 --> 4828.20] worked out here -[4828.20 --> 4828.92] and now -[4828.92 --> 4829.80] in the soil -[4829.80 --> 4830.84] of this earth -[4830.84 --> 4834.92] but our good God -[4834.92 --> 4837.20] has given us -[4837.20 --> 4837.80] his gospel -[4837.80 --> 4840.34] and by that gospel -[4840.34 --> 4840.98] he has given us -[4840.98 --> 4841.76] Jesus Christ -[4841.76 --> 4843.66] and our good God -[4843.66 --> 4844.18] in giving us -[4844.18 --> 4844.80] Jesus Christ -[4844.80 --> 4846.10] has promised us -[4846.10 --> 4847.64] the spirit -[4847.64 --> 4850.16] not a spirit -[4850.16 --> 4852.58] the spirit -[4852.58 --> 4853.50] the one -[4853.50 --> 4854.96] that rules -[4854.96 --> 4857.36] over all -[4857.36 --> 4858.48] that is -[4858.48 --> 4859.80] our God -[4859.80 --> 4860.26] he -[4860.26 --> 4861.30] is -[4861.30 --> 4862.06] our -[4862.06 --> 4862.78] God -[4862.78 --> 4863.48] and I don't know -[4863.48 --> 4863.98] about you -[4863.98 --> 4865.70] but that makes me -[4865.70 --> 4866.20] want to sing -[4866.20 --> 4867.08] amen -[4867.08 --> 4868.52] amen -[4868.52 --> 4869.06] let's -[4869.06 --> 4869.98] sing -[4869.98 --> 4870.80] together -[4870.80 --> 4871.18] and in fact -[4871.18 --> 4871.70] I'm going to invite -[4871.70 --> 4872.62] you all to stand -[4872.62 --> 4873.82] I'm going to pray -[4873.82 --> 4875.10] and as -[4875.10 --> 4877.00] we finish our prayer -[4877.00 --> 4877.90] the worship team -[4877.90 --> 4878.92] is going to take us -[4878.92 --> 4879.30] right -[4879.30 --> 4880.36] into -[4880.36 --> 4881.44] song -[4881.44 --> 4882.98] and it is by this song -[4882.98 --> 4884.62] sung that we push back -[4884.62 --> 4885.78] against the spirit -[4885.78 --> 4886.44] of the age -[4886.44 --> 4887.48] it is by the gospel -[4887.48 --> 4889.20] proclaimed that we push back -[4889.20 --> 4890.10] and so -[4890.10 --> 4890.96] sing -[4890.96 --> 4892.34] and pray -[4892.34 --> 4893.70] and proclaim -[4893.70 --> 4894.80] together -[4894.80 --> 4895.38] let's -[4895.38 --> 4896.20] pray -[4896.20 --> 4899.26] Lord -[4899.26 --> 4900.12] our -[4900.12 --> 4901.42] God -[4901.42 --> 4904.70] Lord -[4904.70 --> 4905.24] our God -[4905.24 --> 4906.04] you are -[4906.04 --> 4906.94] in this -[4906.94 --> 4907.74] place -[4907.74 --> 4908.70] by your -[4908.70 --> 4909.48] spirit -[4909.48 --> 4910.14] you are -[4910.14 --> 4910.58] here -[4910.58 --> 4911.34] among us -[4911.34 --> 4911.98] Lord Jesus -[4911.98 --> 4912.86] your name -[4912.86 --> 4913.96] is proclaimed -[4913.96 --> 4914.66] and so -[4914.66 --> 4915.76] we push -[4915.76 --> 4916.50] back -[4916.50 --> 4917.24] against the -[4917.24 --> 4917.48] spirits -[4917.48 --> 4918.42] we enter -[4918.42 --> 4919.08] into -[4919.08 --> 4920.30] the battle -[4920.30 --> 4920.96] the battle -[4920.96 --> 4921.44] that you -[4921.44 --> 4922.22] have won -[4922.22 --> 4923.62] the victory -[4923.62 --> 4924.12] that you -[4924.12 --> 4925.00] have promised -[4925.00 --> 4926.84] and we -[4926.84 --> 4927.66] sing -[4927.66 --> 4928.68] your -[4928.68 --> 4929.80] praise -[4929.80 --> 4933.64] even as -[4933.64 --> 4934.28] the rain -[4934.28 --> 4934.94] falls -[4934.94 --> 4936.10] washing -[4936.10 --> 4937.16] the earth -[4937.16 --> 4938.26] wash us -[4938.26 --> 4938.96] by your -[4938.96 --> 4939.42] spirit -[4939.42 --> 4940.26] renew -[4940.26 --> 4940.90] us -[4940.90 --> 4941.60] by your -[4941.60 --> 4941.88] spirit -[4941.88 --> 4942.30] that we -[4942.30 --> 4942.80] might be -[4942.80 --> 4943.38] sent from -[4943.38 --> 4944.16] this place -[4944.16 --> 4945.02] a mighty -[4945.02 --> 4945.86] army -[4945.86 --> 4946.72] for the -[4946.72 --> 4946.98] Lord -[4946.98 --> 4947.60] in Jesus -[4947.60 --> 4947.98] name -[4947.98 --> 4948.50] we pray -[4948.50 --> 4949.74] amen -[4955.00 --> 4962.44] men -[4962.44 --> 4963.00] oh -[4963.00 --> 4964.04] i store -[4964.04 --> 4964.52] praise -[4964.52 --> 4965.16] of them -[4965.38 --> 4969.82] i -[4969.82 --> 4976.16] I know days that God has numbered -[4976.16 --> 4980.78] I will sing in all within -[4980.78 --> 4986.20] Yet I look for worldly treasure -[4986.20 --> 4989.94] And forsake the King -[4989.94 --> 4996.48] But my ears grow fit by Redeemer -[4996.48 --> 5001.20] Though I know His love is sure -[5001.20 --> 5006.24] For Christ has made for every day -[5006.24 --> 5011.74] I am His forevermore -[5011.74 --> 5019.12] Mine are tears in times of sorrow -[5019.12 --> 5023.48] Darkness, blood and understood -[5023.48 --> 5028.98] Through the valley I must travel -[5028.98 --> 5033.24] Where I see no earthly good -[5033.24 --> 5039.04] But my His peace and hope from heaven -[5039.04 --> 5043.20] And the strength in time will be -[5043.20 --> 5048.70] I know my pain will not be wasted -[5048.70 --> 5052.96] Christ, oh please, His word will be -[5052.96 --> 5060.70] Nine are days here as a stranger -[5060.70 --> 5065.96] Pilgrim on a narrow way -[5065.96 --> 5071.46] One with Christ I will encounter -[5071.46 --> 5075.96] Heart and hatred for His pain -[5075.96 --> 5081.24] But my His armor for this battle -[5081.24 --> 5085.46] Strong enough to last long -[5085.46 --> 5090.96] And He has said He will deliver -[5090.96 --> 5095.22] Simply to the golden shore -[5095.22 --> 5100.22] And mine are keys to Zion City -[5100.22 --> 5104.96] Where beside the King I was -[5104.96 --> 5110.46] For there my heart has found its treasure -[5110.46 --> 5114.72] Christ is mine forevermore -[5114.72 --> 5138.48] Come rejoice now, O my soul -[5138.48 --> 5143.98] For His love is my reward -[5143.98 --> 5148.48] For His love is my reward -[5148.48 --> 5153.48] Christ is mine forevermore -[5153.48 --> 5155.48] Come rejoice now, O my soul -[5155.48 --> 5158.48] Come rejoice now, O my soul -[5158.48 --> 5163.48] For His love is my reward -[5163.48 --> 5167.48] Fear is gone and hope is sure -[5167.48 --> 5172.48] Christ is mine forevermore -[5172.48 --> 5173.48] Christ is mine forevermore -[5173.48 --> 5179.48] Christ is mine forevermore -[5179.48 --> 5182.48] And mine are keys to Zion City -[5182.48 --> 5202.46] Where beside the King I was -[5202.46 --> 5203.46] Be not walk -[5203.46 --> 5209.46] For there my heart has found its treasure -[5209.46 --> 5214.46] Christ is mine forevermore -[5214.46 --> 5220.46] Christ is mine forevermore -[5220.46 --> 5225.46] Christ is mine forevermore -[5225.46 --> 5240.00] As you go this week, know that you go into battle, but know that God goes with you. -[5241.16 --> 5247.82] And know that God is not surprised by whatever you face, but he has ordained your steps that -[5247.82 --> 5254.46] you would be there. And so he is with you for the journey. He is with you for the battle. He is in -[5254.46 --> 5261.44] you in the Spirit, and so receive God's blessing. Following God's blessing, we're going to sing -[5261.44 --> 5266.72] another song, and there's a chance to be prayed with or over. We'll have someone up front here -[5266.72 --> 5271.06] with a yellow name tag. They would love to meet you and pray with you. Go as well with an invitation -[5271.06 --> 5277.48] to join us again at 7 p.m. for our lament and longing service together, and go with a gentle -[5277.48 --> 5281.58] reminder that after you've finished your coffee and your fellowship, that stacking chairs would -[5281.58 --> 5290.20] be appreciated. That's part of the battle today. Receive the blessing of God. God, go before you -[5290.20 --> 5297.32] to lead you. God, go behind you to protect you. God, go beneath you to support you, and God, go beside -[5297.32 --> 5305.54] you to defend you. Do not be afraid. Let the blessing of God come upon you today. Do not be afraid, -[5305.54 --> 5311.40] but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Amen. -[5311.40 --> 5311.58] Amen. -[5341.40 --> 5353.14] be -[5353.14 --> 5368.14] Be gracious to you, Lord, turn his face for you and give you peace. -[5368.14 --> 5383.50] Lord, bless you and give you, make his face shine upon you. -[5383.50 --> 5397.50] Be gracious to you, Lord, turn his face for you and give you peace. -[5398.14 --> 5412.44] Amen, amen, amen. -[5412.44 --> 5425.44] Amen, amen, amen. -[5428.14 --> 5439.44] Lord, bless you and give you, make his face shine upon you. -[5439.44 --> 5452.14] Be gracious to you, Lord, turn his face for you and give you peace. -[5452.14 --> 5468.02] Amen, amen, amen. -[5468.02 --> 5480.94] Amen, amen, amen. -[5480.94 --> 5482.94] Amen. -[5482.94 --> 5484.94] Amen. -[5484.94 --> 5485.94] Amen. -[5485.94 --> 5493.94] Amen. -[5493.94 --> 5495.94] Amen. -[5495.94 --> 5497.94] Amen. -[5497.94 --> 5499.94] Amen. -[5499.94 --> 5521.94] May His favor be upon you and a thousand generations, and your family, and your children, and their children, and their children. -[5521.94 --> 5534.94] May His favor be upon you and a thousand generations, and your family, and your children, and their children, and their children. -[5534.94 --> 5543.94] May His presence go before you and behind you and inside you and all around you. -[5543.94 --> 5571.94] May His favor be upon you and in the evening and in your family and in loving your waking days, my children, and their children, and their children. -[5571.94 --> 5585.32] Amen, amen, amen. -[5585.32 --> 5598.04] Amen, amen, amen. -[5598.04 --> 5611.38] Amen, amen, amen. -[5611.38 --> 5625.42] Amen, amen, amen. -[5628.04 --> 5630.04] Amen. -[5658.04 --> 5660.04] Amen. -[5688.04 --> 5690.04] Amen. -[5690.04 --> 5692.04] Amen. -[5692.04 --> 5693.04] Amen. -[5693.04 --> 5695.04] Amen. -[5695.04 --> 5697.04] Amen. -[5697.04 --> 5698.04] Amen. -[5698.04 --> 5700.04] Amen. -[5700.04 --> 5701.04] Amen. -[5701.04 --> 5702.04] Amen. -[5702.04 --> 5714.04] Amen. -[5714.04 --> 5744.02] Thank you. -[5744.04 --> 5774.02] Thank you. -[5774.04 --> 5804.02] Thank you. -[5804.04 --> 5834.02] Thank you. -[5834.04 --> 5864.02] Thank you. -[5864.04 --> 5894.02] Thank you. -[5894.04 --> 5924.02] Thank you. -[5924.04 --> 5954.02] Thank you. -[5954.04 --> 5984.02] Thank you. -[5984.04 --> 6014.02] Thank you. -[6014.04 --> 6044.02] Thank you. -[6044.04 --> 6074.02] Thank you. -[6074.02 --> 6104.00] Thank you. -[6104.02 --> 6134.00] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, Aug 25, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, Aug 25, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 16a152d8251b48e15524ddb470a28cf7c4f2a638..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, Aug 25, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,133 +0,0 @@ -• Discussion of various items (soya, carsticks) -• Mention of cattlemen -• Announcement about a game or event -• Care groups being relaunched/restarted -• Call to worship from Psalm 47 -• Opening prayer/invocation -• General welcome and greetings -• Worship and praise to God -• Creation and majesty of God -• Holiness and attributes of God -• Praise and adoration of God's name -• God's power and glory -• Invitation to worship and behold God -• God's uniqueness and holiness emphasized throughout the passage -• God's rescue and provision through His Son -• Humanity's failure to be like Jesus despite heart's desire -• Need for Holy Spirit's transforming power -• Worship and praise of God's holiness and sovereignty -• Sin, redemption, and the love of Jesus Christ -• Discussion about a song or hymn with lyrics "If ever I love thee" and Jesus being mentioned -• Introduction of Jim from the Langley Food Bank, who shares updates on the organization's new developments -• Mention of 2 Corinthians 5:17 and Isaiah 43:18-19 as scripture references related to new beginnings -• Description of a new executive manager at the food bank (Josh Mace) and a new location for the organization -• Explanation of the new facility, including its size, features, and impact on service provision -• Statistics about the number of people served by the Langley Food Bank in June and July -• Donations of expired tuna and other food items were made to the food bank -• Discussion of a pastor's efforts to introduce clients to church and Jesus Christ -• Prayer for Jim, a guest speaker, and the Langley Food Bank ministry -• Announcement of an offering for Cascade Christian Counseling -• Singing of hymns, including "My Hope is Built on Nothing Less" -• Discussion of a summer highlight from the New Testament -• Upcoming children's worship time schedule changes -• Prayer for the church family and community -• Blessing and gratitude for various members and their circumstances -• Prayers for specific individuals, including health and well-being -• Prayers for the greater world, including leaders, conflict zones, and educational institutions -• Request for God's blessing and guidance on the church's ministry -• Praying for focus on Jesus and trusting in Him -• Reading from Acts 18, specifically verses 1-28 -• Paul's journey from Corinth to Ephesus and other locations -• Apollos' arrival in Ephesus and his role in spreading the gospel -• The author sharing a personal anecdote about playing with Legos as a child -• The concept of individual parts coming together to form a beautiful whole is discussed as an analogy for the church -• Reading stories in Acts shows what an active church community can be like and how it benefits one another -• A healthy church utilizes spiritual gifts for the building up of the body -• Priscilla, Aquila, and Apollos are presented as examples of using their gifts to facilitate each other's ministries -• Background information is given on Priscilla and Aquila's lives, including their expulsion from Rome due to a decree issued by Emperor Claudius -• Shared commitment to the scriptures and love for Jesus -• Paul, Priscilla, and Aquila's ministry together in Corinth -• Nazarite vow mentioned in Numbers 6:1-20 -• Description of a Nazarite vow, including abstaining from wine and grapes, avoiding contact with the dead, and not cutting hair -• The word "Nazarite" comes from Hebrew meaning "consecrated" or "set apart" -• Distinction between "Nazarite" and related terms such as "Nazareth", "Nazarene", "watch", and "branch" -• Personal anecdote about being in seminary -• Bible knowledge exam question about where Paul got his hair cut -• Connection to Acts 21 and Nazarite vow -• Paul's cultural practice as a Jewish missionary -• Importance of understanding Paul's connection to his Jewish culture despite being a Christian -• Balance between Paul's identity as a Christian and his cultural practices as a Jew -• Mission and identity -• Being a Christian and a citizen of the kingdom of heaven -• Living on mission like Paul in Ephesus -• Proclaiming the same message and standing firm on God's word -• Discerning what is really important and what can be less so -• Paul leaves Ephesus -• Apollos arrives in Ephesus, described as an eloquent and capable speaker -• Priscilla and Aquila recognize Apollos' potential but also his limited understanding of Christian teachings -• They take him aside to explain the way of God more accurately -• Apollos is introduced as a Jew from Alexandria who is knowledgeable about scriptures but has a limited understanding of baptism -• He is sent to Achaia (Greece) and specifically to Corinth with support from Ephesian believers -• The brothers and sisters in Ephesus write to the church in Corinth to welcome and support Apollos. -• Jesus is refuted and proved from the scriptures to be the Messiah in public debate -• Apollos' significance in the Corinthian church leads to divisions among believers who follow different influential figures (Paul, Apollos, Peter/Cephas) -• Paul emphasizes that he and Apollos are servants of Christ through whom Corinthians came to believe -• The growth of faith in Corinth is attributed to God, not just Paul or Apollos -• Apollos eventually left Corinth due to his relationship with Paul, but returned later -• Apollos' role in the early church and possible authorship of the letter to the Hebrews -• Tradition surrounding Apollos' ministry in various locations, including Corinth, Caesarea, and Smyrna -• Discussion on the importance of spiritual gifts in building up the body of believers -• Reference to 1 Corinthians 16:16, where Priscilla and Aquila host Apollos and explain God's way more adequately -• The significance of this story as an example of how God functions through his church -• Making space in one's life for others and for opportunities -• Inviting someone into one's life, even a stranger or an acquaintance -• Having room in one's schedule for unexpected events or conversations -• Intentionally building gaps in one's time to allow God to work -• Noticing the example of Priscilla and Aquila who made space in their lives for Paul -• The pressure to constantly be busy and active -• Balancing parenting responsibilities with making time for God or others -• Creating space in life for relationships and spiritual growth -• Prioritizing what is most important in one's life -• Asking questions and seeking guidance on how to make time for what truly matters -• The church family welcomed and ministered to strangers who opened their homes and lived together. -• The Emmanuel youth program partners leaders with students from grade 8 onwards for five years, doing life together and discipling them. -• Intentional prioritization of relationships between leaders and youth is necessary for a healthy, functioning church. -• Care groups are another place where God builds lives by living together, and several care groups have been meeting for over 25 years. -• The importance of being involved in community and living life with others -• The value of a group of friends who have been a support system for many years -• The need to be able to disagree with others and engage in critical thinking and discussion -• The balance between giving reasons for one's faith and doing so with gentleness and respect -• God grows the church and transforms individuals into Jesus' image through relationships and listening to others. -• Genuine, authentic, and meaningful listening is essential in understanding how God works through others. -• Listening leads to learning and teaching, as demonstrated by Priscilla and Aquila's encounter with Paul. -• Searching the scriptures and seeking truth is a pattern of discipleship emphasized in the New Testament stories. -• Searching the scriptures daily is a crucial practice for spiritual growth. -• Intentional relationships are necessary for discipleship and mentoring. -• Simply spending time with others in casual settings (e.g. hockey games, Starbucks) is not enough; deeper engagement with scripture is required. -• Scripture should be used to guide discussions about God's teachings in the present moment. -• The early church followed a pattern of intentional scripture-based teaching and learning. -• Quotes from Clement of Alexandria emphasize the importance of toil and dedication to seeking truth through scripture. -• Following Jesus as a guide -• Importance of living in accordance with God's word -• Emphasis on following Jesus' teachings and example -• Discipleship and relationship with Jesus -• Pursuing spiritual growth and utilizing gifts given by Jesus -• Sent out to serve others, with the idea being descriptive rather than prescriptive -• The church's focus on using its members' spiritual gifts to build up the body of Christ -• The large number of volunteer positions available at Emmanuel Church (over 330) -• Approximately 60% of the congregation are volunteering in some capacity -• The average volunteer takes on around 2.29 roles, effectively doing the work of almost two and a half people -• The emphasis on community service and the blessing that it brings to the church -• God's role in equipping and empowering members to serve and grow the church -• Discerning who needs to be talked to or invited into one's life -• Identifying a suitable Bible study or care group to participate in -• Recognizing God's work and praying for more of it in one's life -• Asking questions about discipleship, space, relationships, and intentionality -• Praying for guidance and humility to hear God's answer -• Experiencing the presence and glory of God -• Meeting with someone for prayer and fellowship after worship -• The speaker describes Jesus Christ as the Lion of Judah and the Lamb who was slain -• Jesus will reign at His Father's side with wisdom, mercy, and justice -• Angels will cry out in praise of Jesus, hailing Him as the ruler of the world -• The earth will be fixed on Jesus and He will reign as King of all kings and Lord of all souls -• A reference to a shield, sword, and fire within the believer is made \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, Aug 25, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, Aug 25, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 210c929a3400ddd4fa91c39d58c0520acd3c6549..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, Aug 25, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2612 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 8.00] So you have soya, you have carsticks, and the different things come down. -[9.00 --> 11.50] We have other cattlemen -[14.00 --> 22.00] And then we have soya and Then we have soya, come from the garage, change red, -[23.00 --> 28.00] put continued -[28.00 --> 30.00] I'll be watching. -[58.00 --> 87.98] Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. -[88.00 --> 117.98] Yeah, yeah, yeah. -[118.00 --> 120.00] Yeah. -[148.00 --> 150.00] Yeah. -[150.00 --> 152.00] Yeah. -[152.00 --> 154.00] Yeah. -[154.00 --> 156.00] Yeah. -[156.00 --> 158.00] Yeah. -[158.00 --> 160.00] Yeah. -[160.00 --> 162.00] Yeah. -[162.00 --> 164.00] Yeah. -[164.00 --> 166.00] Yeah. -[166.00 --> 168.00] Yeah. -[168.00 --> 170.00] Yeah. -[170.00 --> 172.00] Yeah. -[172.00 --> 174.00] Yeah. -[174.00 --> 176.00] Yeah. -[176.00 --> 178.00] Yeah. -[178.00 --> 180.00] Yeah. -[180.00 --> 182.00] Yeah. -[182.00 --> 184.00] Yeah. -[184.00 --> 186.00] Yeah. -[186.00 --> 188.00] Yeah. -[188.00 --> 190.00] Yeah. -[190.00 --> 192.00] Yeah. -[192.00 --> 194.00] Yeah. -[194.00 --> 196.00] Yeah. -[196.00 --> 204.00] Yeah. -[204.00 --> 206.00] Yeah. -[206.00 --> 208.00] Yeah. -[208.00 --> 210.00] Yeah. -[210.00 --> 214.00] Yeah. -[214.00 --> 216.00] Yeah. -[216.00 --> 218.00] Yeah. -[218.00 --> 220.00] Yeah. -[220.00 --> 222.00] Yeah. -[222.00 --> 224.00] Yeah. -[224.00 --> 236.00] Yeah. -[236.00 --> 238.00] Yeah. -[238.00 --> 240.00] Yeah. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 599.98] Thank you. -[600.00 --> 629.98] Thank you. -[630.00 --> 659.98] Thank you. -[660.00 --> 689.98] Thank you. -[690.00 --> 719.98] Thank you. -[720.00 --> 749.98] Thank you. -[750.00 --> 779.98] Thank you. -[780.00 --> 809.98] Thank you. -[810.00 --> 839.98] Thank you. -[840.00 --> 869.98] Good morning. -[869.98 --> 899.96] Good morning. -[899.96 --> 929.94] You are a guest with us this morning. -[929.94 --> 959.94] And so, -[959.96 --> 989.92] okay. -[989.92 --> 992.34] 92? 92. Perfect. -[993.46 --> 996.62] Details on that are in the e-bulletin, or if you have questions, you can grab me. -[996.74 --> 998.84] We'd love to see everyone come out for that. -[999.72 --> 1002.44] This year, we're going to mix up the teams and everyone playing, -[1002.56 --> 1005.72] and so you don't need to register, you don't need to be part of a team. -[1005.80 --> 1009.42] Just come on out, bring your ball glove, and maybe some running shoes, -[1009.60 --> 1011.22] and we'll enjoy that time together. -[1013.12 --> 1016.06] And there was one more announcement, which I'm completely forgetting. -[1016.34 --> 1018.74] It's on my list because I forgot to bring my paper up. -[1019.92 --> 1026.66] No, it's in the top paper under announcements. -[1027.68 --> 1029.08] Anyway, I'll find it. It'll be good. -[1029.88 --> 1034.30] Why don't we stand together, and we can be welcomed into God's presence. -[1037.34 --> 1041.06] As you're standing, the final announcement that I was supposed to make -[1041.06 --> 1042.14] was about care groups. -[1042.88 --> 1049.20] And so care groups, we're relaunching and restarting those sign-ups -[1049.20 --> 1053.42] for new members and people who would like to be part of a care group -[1053.42 --> 1056.32] or a small group will come out this next week, -[1056.44 --> 1059.88] and we wanted to draw your attention to that in particular -[1059.88 --> 1061.98] so that you can plug in. -[1062.20 --> 1066.30] I'll return to this theme more later in our preaching time together. -[1067.58 --> 1068.60] With that in mind, -[1068.60 --> 1073.76] let's be welcomed into the presence of our good God together. -[1076.66 --> 1077.14] Grace, -[1078.14 --> 1078.50] mercy, -[1078.88 --> 1079.96] and peace to you -[1079.96 --> 1081.20] from God our Father, -[1081.38 --> 1082.50] from the Lord Jesus Christ, -[1082.60 --> 1083.02] His Son, -[1083.32 --> 1084.04] and our Savior, -[1084.52 --> 1085.64] through the presence and power -[1085.64 --> 1086.98] of the Holy Spirit. -[1087.98 --> 1088.42] Amen. -[1088.42 --> 1088.58] Amen. -[1088.58 --> 1097.62] I hope you had greet people. -[1097.62 --> 1098.54] Amen. -[1127.62 --> 1140.14] Our call to worship today comes from Psalm 47. -[1140.78 --> 1143.40] Clap your hands, all you nations. -[1143.94 --> 1146.06] Shout with God with cries of joy. -[1146.70 --> 1148.78] For the Lord Most High is awesome, -[1149.20 --> 1151.30] the great King over all the earth. -[1152.24 --> 1154.88] Come let us worship our awesome God together. -[1155.66 --> 1157.54] Come those filled with joy, -[1157.62 --> 1159.06] and sing deeply. -[1159.72 --> 1161.58] Come those carrying burdens. -[1162.84 --> 1165.84] May we as God's family raise you up -[1165.84 --> 1169.12] and sing for you as we worship. -[1169.72 --> 1172.92] May God shine his face on us this morning. -[1172.92 --> 1174.92] Amen. -[1187.62 --> 1191.58] God of all creation. -[1191.68 --> 1192.84] God of all creation. -[1192.84 --> 1198.84] Of water, earth, and sky. -[1198.84 --> 1203.54] The heavens are your tabernacle. -[1203.54 --> 1211.68] Glory to the Lord on high. -[1211.76 --> 1215.20] God of wonders beyond our guarantee. -[1215.20 --> 1219.82] You are holy. -[1220.76 --> 1222.84] Holy. -[1222.84 --> 1240.06] Lord of heaven and earth. -[1240.06 --> 1246.06] Lord of heaven and earth. -[1246.06 --> 1247.28] Family and earth não Sire. -[1247.28 --> 1250.20] Fear, and hell are your custom이 Ishida. -[1250.20 --> 1251.02] May we will not be Joy or hope. -[1251.08 --> 1252.26] May we will not be in Mm-H birthday. -[1257.20 --> 1258.38] Now we are touring the early years of Joy -[1258.38 --> 1259.08] if you have good food. -[1259.08 --> 1259.94] Amen. -[1260.08 --> 1260.12] Amen. -[1260.12 --> 1261.66] God for if you are in Jerusalem. -[1261.76 --> 1263.86] Early in the morning, my Lord outerUb syria. -[1263.86 --> 1265.12] The다음e earth will be written by you by your father. -[1265.12 --> 1266.34] Father in Jerusalem. -[1266.34 --> 1268.28] Annimages gratitude is 하나 as we worship. -[1268.28 --> 1270.24] I will celebrate the life. -[1270.24 --> 1271.34] The pivotal verse that I speak in. -[1271.72 --> 1272.16] May the tua name is queen of His travel in Jerusalem. -[1272.16 --> 1277.30] When I stumble in the darkness -[1277.30 --> 1285.34] I will call your name by night -[1285.34 --> 1289.24] God has wandered beyond our galaxy -[1289.24 --> 1296.92] You are holy, holy -[1296.92 --> 1301.48] The gifts that burns to cleanse your majesty -[1301.48 --> 1309.48] You are holy, holy -[1309.48 --> 1315.48] Lord of heaven and earth -[1315.48 --> 1321.48] Lord of heaven and earth -[1321.48 --> 1325.48] Hallelujah -[1325.48 --> 1331.48] Hallelujah -[1331.48 --> 1335.48] To the Lord of heaven and earth -[1335.48 --> 1337.48] Hallelujah -[1337.48 --> 1341.48] To the Lord of heaven and earth -[1341.48 --> 1343.48] Hallelujah -[1343.48 --> 1347.48] To the Lord of heaven and earth -[1347.48 --> 1351.48] And earth wonders beyond our galaxy -[1351.48 --> 1357.48] You are holy, holy -[1357.48 --> 1363.48] The universe declares your majesty -[1363.48 --> 1371.48] You are holy, holy -[1371.48 --> 1375.48] God wonders beyond our galaxy -[1375.48 --> 1381.48] You are holy, holy -[1381.48 --> 1383.48] Holy -[1383.48 --> 1385.48] Holy -[1385.48 --> 1387.48] You are holy, holy -[1387.48 --> 1389.48] You are holy, holy -[1389.48 --> 1391.48] You are holy, holy -[1391.48 --> 1393.48] You are holy, holy -[1393.48 --> 1395.48] You are holy, holy -[1395.48 --> 1401.48] Lord of heaven and earth -[1401.48 --> 1405.48] Lord of heaven and earth -[1405.48 --> 1407.48] You are holy, holy -[1407.48 --> 1411.48] You are holy, holy -[1411.48 --> 1413.48] You are holy, holy -[1413.48 --> 1417.48] You are holy, holy -[1417.48 --> 1419.48] You are holy -[1419.48 --> 1421.48] You are holy -[1421.48 --> 1423.48] You are holy, holy -[1423.48 --> 1425.48] You are holy -[1429.48 --> 1431.48] Amen -[1431.48 --> 1432.48] Amen -[1432.48 --> 1433.48] Amen -[1433.48 --> 1435.48] Amen -[1435.48 --> 1437.48] Amen -[1437.48 --> 1439.48] Amen -[1439.48 --> 1441.48] Amen -[1441.48 --> 1445.12] Make every king bow down. -[1445.96 --> 1451.22] Who else can whisper and darkness trembles? -[1451.84 --> 1455.10] Only a holy God. -[1458.46 --> 1462.92] What other beauty demands such praises? -[1463.74 --> 1469.42] What other splendor outshines the sun? -[1469.42 --> 1475.36] What other majesty rules with justice? -[1476.24 --> 1479.62] Only a holy God. -[1482.68 --> 1491.56] Come and behold him, the one and the only. -[1491.56 --> 1495.92] Cry out, sing holy. -[1496.42 --> 1499.56] Forever a holy God. -[1500.62 --> 1504.56] Come and worship the holy God. -[1504.56 --> 1510.44] Come and behold him, the one and the only. -[1510.44 --> 1513.62] Come and behold him, the one and the only. -[1513.62 --> 1515.42] Come and behold him, the one and the only. -[1515.42 --> 1518.88] What other glory consumes like fire? -[1520.16 --> 1524.62] What other power can raise the dead? -[1524.62 --> 1530.26] One other name remains unsteated -[1530.26 --> 1537.70] Only a holy God -[1537.70 --> 1542.94] Come and behold Him -[1542.94 --> 1547.18] The one and the only -[1547.18 --> 1551.48] I am the holy -[1551.48 --> 1554.38] Forever a holy -[1554.38 --> 1555.88] God -[1555.88 --> 1558.98] Come and worship the holy -[1558.98 --> 1560.96] God -[1560.96 --> 1565.40] Come and behold Him -[1565.40 --> 1569.72] The one and the only -[1569.72 --> 1574.10] Cry out, sing holy -[1574.10 --> 1577.00] Forever a holy -[1577.00 --> 1578.40] God -[1578.40 --> 1581.56] Come and worship the holy -[1581.56 --> 1583.00] God -[1583.00 --> 1609.32] Who else would rescue me from my failing? -[1609.32 --> 1614.82] Who else would offer His only Son? -[1614.82 --> 1620.56] Who else invites me to call Him Father? -[1622.24 --> 1625.82] Only a holy God -[1625.82 --> 1629.98] Only my holy God -[1629.98 --> 1635.48] Come and behold Him -[1635.48 --> 1637.36] Come and behold Him -[1637.36 --> 1641.52] The one and the only -[1641.52 --> 1647.02] Cry out, sing holy -[1647.02 --> 1649.90] The one and the only -[1649.90 --> 1651.02] Come and worship the holy God -[1651.02 --> 1654.90] Come and worship the holy God -[1654.90 --> 1658.02] Come and behold Him -[1658.02 --> 1659.02] The one and the only -[1659.02 --> 1660.02] The one and the only -[1660.02 --> 1664.40] The one and the only -[1664.40 --> 1668.02] Cry out, sing holy -[1668.02 --> 1672.40] Forever a holy God -[1672.40 --> 1675.40] Come and worship the holy God -[1675.40 --> 1676.90] Holy God -[1676.90 --> 1696.08] Just wondering how often have we not been the people we wanted to be this past week? -[1696.08 --> 1697.58] We've been short tempered -[1697.58 --> 1698.58] We've been short tempered -[1698.58 --> 1700.98] Lied to protect ourselves -[1700.98 --> 1701.76] Been selfish -[1701.76 --> 1703.68] Okay, maybe those are mine -[1703.68 --> 1705.78] But you probably have some yourself -[1705.78 --> 1707.14] Just wondering -[1707.14 --> 1711.42] Our hearts desire to be more like Jesus -[1711.42 --> 1713.24] Yet we keep failing -[1713.24 --> 1714.84] Showing our true selves -[1714.84 --> 1717.46] So how much we need -[1717.46 --> 1719.00] The transforming power -[1719.00 --> 1720.34] Of the Holy Spirit -[1720.34 --> 1722.02] Renewing our hearts -[1722.02 --> 1723.78] And minds to be more like Christ -[1723.78 --> 1725.86] Let's bow our heads -[1725.86 --> 1727.24] Pray with me -[1727.24 --> 1729.66] Father -[1729.66 --> 1733.48] How we want to be more like your Son Jesus -[1733.48 --> 1738.72] Forgive us when we let our old self dictate how we behave -[1738.72 --> 1742.82] May your Spirit work in our hearts and minds -[1742.82 --> 1745.78] So we can be new creations in you -[1745.78 --> 1749.72] May we stand in awe of your faithfulness -[1749.72 --> 1750.80] And love -[1750.80 --> 1751.92] Amen -[1772.82 --> 1784.14] We need our moment -[1784.14 --> 1787.40] You are forever -[1787.40 --> 1790.94] Lord of the ages -[1790.94 --> 1793.82] God before time -[1794.34 --> 1797.08] We are a favor -[1797.08 --> 1799.82] You are eternal -[1799.82 --> 1803.50] Love everlasting -[1803.50 --> 1807.82] Reigning on high -[1807.82 --> 1811.96] Holy, holy -[1811.96 --> 1813.82] Lord God almighty -[1814.58 --> 1820.82] Worthy is the Lamb who was saved -[1821.36 --> 1826.82] Highest praise and joy and glory -[1826.82 --> 1828.82] Be unto your name -[1828.82 --> 1833.82] Be unto your name -[1833.82 --> 1838.82] Be unto your name -[1838.82 --> 1839.82] Be unto your name -[1839.82 --> 1841.82] We are the broken -[1841.82 --> 1844.82] You are the keeper -[1844.82 --> 1846.82] Jesus, Redeemer -[1846.82 --> 1848.82] Jesus, Redeemer -[1848.82 --> 1851.82] Mighty to save -[1851.82 --> 1854.82] You are the love song -[1854.82 --> 1857.82] We'll sing forever -[1857.82 --> 1860.82] Bowing before you -[1860.82 --> 1861.82] For you -[1861.82 --> 1862.82] Glancing your name -[1862.82 --> 1863.82] Glancing your name -[1863.82 --> 1864.82] Glancing your name -[1864.82 --> 1866.82] Glancing your name -[1866.82 --> 1868.82] Holy, holy -[1868.82 --> 1870.82] Lord God almighty -[1870.82 --> 1871.82] Glancing your name -[1871.82 --> 1872.82] Holy, holy -[1872.82 --> 1873.82] Lord God almighty -[1873.82 --> 1877.82] Worthy is the Lamb who was saved -[1877.82 --> 1878.82] God save -[1878.82 --> 1879.82] Highest praise and glory -[1879.82 --> 1880.82] Be unto your name -[1880.82 --> 1883.82] Be unto your name -[1883.82 --> 1885.82] Be unto your name -[1885.82 --> 1886.82] Be unto your name -[1886.82 --> 1890.82] Be unto your name -[1890.82 --> 1894.82] Be unto your name -[1894.82 --> 1896.82] Be unto your name -[1896.82 --> 1900.82] Holy, holy Lord God almighty -[1900.82 --> 1902.82] Lord God almighty -[1902.82 --> 1905.82] Worthy is the Lamb who was saved -[1905.82 --> 1906.82] Worthy is the Lamb who was saved -[1906.82 --> 1910.08] The land whom I stand -[1910.08 --> 1916.00] Highest praises on earth and glory -[1916.00 --> 1922.02] Be unto your name -[1922.02 --> 1927.32] Be unto your name -[1927.32 --> 1933.32] Be unto your name -[1936.82 --> 1966.80] Be unto your name -[1966.82 --> 1974.82] For thee all the fallings of sin -[1975.36 --> 1977.82] I resign -[1977.82 --> 1983.82] My gracious Redeemer -[1984.62 --> 1989.82] My Savior art thou -[1989.82 --> 1995.82] If ever I love thee -[1995.82 --> 2000.82] My Jesus is now -[2000.82 --> 2015.82] I love thee because thou hast first loved me -[2015.82 --> 2021.82] And purchased my garden -[2021.82 --> 2026.82] On Calvary's tree -[2026.82 --> 2038.82] I love thee for wearing the thorns on thy brow -[2038.82 --> 2045.82] If ever I love thee -[2045.82 --> 2051.82] My Jesus is now -[2051.82 --> 2059.82] I love thee in life -[2059.82 --> 2065.82] I will love thee in death -[2065.82 --> 2077.82] And praise thee as long as thou lendest me breath -[2077.82 --> 2079.82] And say -[2079.82 --> 2080.82] And say -[2080.82 --> 2081.82] And say -[2081.82 --> 2083.82] When the death -[2083.82 --> 2084.82] Do -[2084.82 --> 2085.82] Lies -[2085.82 --> 2086.82] Cold -[2086.82 --> 2087.82] Hold on my ground -[2087.82 --> 2096.82] If ever I love thee -[2096.82 --> 2097.82] My Jesus is now -[2097.82 --> 2102.82] My Jesus is now -[2102.82 --> 2108.82] In mansions of glory -[2108.82 --> 2110.82] And endless -[2110.82 --> 2111.82] And endless -[2111.82 --> 2112.82] And endless -[2112.82 --> 2114.82] Divine -[2114.82 --> 2120.82] I'll ever adore thee -[2120.82 --> 2121.82] In heaven -[2121.82 --> 2122.82] In heaven -[2122.82 --> 2126.82] In heaven -[2126.82 --> 2127.82] In heaven -[2127.82 --> 2128.82] So bright -[2128.82 --> 2130.82] I'll sing -[2130.82 --> 2131.82] Wind -[2131.82 --> 2132.82] And clear -[2132.82 --> 2135.82] I'll ever adore thee -[2135.82 --> 2137.82] With ever I love thee -[2137.82 --> 2139.82] My Jesus is now -[2139.82 --> 2142.82] If ever I love thee -[2142.82 --> 2145.82] My Jesus is now -[2145.82 --> 2153.82] If ever I love thee -[2154.82 --> 2156.82] By Jesus is now -[2156.82 --> 2157.82] Good morning. -[2157.82 --> 2158.82] I'm going to invite Jim -[2158.82 --> 2164.10] going to invite Jim up and Jim is here from the Langley Food Bank and our church has a pretty -[2164.10 --> 2168.02] awesome long-standing relationship with the food bank a bunch of people volunteer there and most -[2168.02 --> 2174.16] recently we held a bit of a community festival where we also did and ran a big food drive -[2174.16 --> 2179.28] throughout Murrayville so that was this past July and Jim is here to share a few words about the -[2179.28 --> 2189.96] food bank and yeah thank you for joining us today thank you for having me greetings from the Langley -[2189.96 --> 2196.08] Food Bank and I just want to come and give God the glory for what he's doing I don't know if recently -[2196.08 --> 2201.72] a lot of new things have happened and you know Isaiah says forget the former things do not dwell -[2201.72 --> 2207.72] on them see I am doing a new thing and he's doing a new thing at the Langley Food Bank I'm not sure if -[2207.72 --> 2213.68] you're aware of that uh 2 Corinthians 5 17 says therefore if any man's in Christ he's a new -[2213.68 --> 2219.72] creature the old is gone the new has come and so there are a couple new things that have happened -[2219.72 --> 2224.64] to Langley Food Bank that you should know about number one they have a new executive manager -[2224.64 --> 2229.10] that's right I used to be the old one but I retired my wife finally got the better of me -[2229.10 --> 2236.04] and she said honey it's time so I am retired from full-time work I'm doing part-time as the vice -[2236.04 --> 2242.36] president of public relations so I even have a card to prove it so which is pretty cool so I'm enjoying -[2242.36 --> 2249.28] my retirement from full-time work but this is one of those things I really still enjoy doing the next -[2249.28 --> 2258.00] one should be that's the new guy that's Josh Mace he's our executive manager now and I know Josh really -[2258.00 --> 2266.64] well Josh and my son Thomas were basically in the same nursery many many years ago and Josh is 40 years -[2266.64 --> 2274.24] old so there's lots of good years left in him and so he is the new executive manager the next slide -[2274.24 --> 2282.32] that's our new place our new digs it's a miracle every time I stand there I go this is a miracle because you -[2282.32 --> 2289.40] know how much that baby cost 5.2 million dollars yeah and God we prayed we put out a fleece we said -[2289.40 --> 2295.38] Lord if you want us to have our own place and we saw this place and we felt drawn towards it and we -[2295.38 --> 2300.90] said if you if you can get someone to give us a mortgage and praise God someone actually gave us a -[2300.90 --> 2305.98] mortgage and we were shocked of course that's how God does it doesn't he always shocks us when he -[2305.98 --> 2311.38] it does amazing things so that is our so we're in the corner of 203 Street and Logan Avenue and -[2311.90 --> 2313.66] another slide -[2313.66 --> 2314.86] That's the side view -[2314.86 --> 2320.48] That's where you go to drop off all your stuff you want to bring as well as that's where trucks come that type of thing -[2320.48 --> 2322.80] So that's always the that's the load-off area -[2323.38 --> 2327.78] So just so you know Monday Wednesday Friday and then Wednesday nights we are open -[2328.16 --> 2331.96] In June we had 32 brand new family units that came -[2331.96 --> 2337.26] We served our average was 181 visits on those days that were open and -[2337.88 --> 2339.88] June alone we served -[2340.88 --> 2342.88] 5,432 people -[2343.52 --> 2345.34] For July -[2345.34 --> 2350.94] 43 another 43 brand new family units came on top of the 32 in June and -[2351.56 --> 2356.40] I don't have the stats for the rest of one of the ladies who does that she's on vacation next slide -[2356.40 --> 2363.76] So this is our new inside area 13,000 square feet praise God let me hear it praise the Lord -[2363.76 --> 2368.92] Yeah, we do have we have 15 in the building, but the city won't let us use about 2,000 -[2368.92 --> 2372.74] And so this is the area we put in the fridges the walk-in fridges and walk-in freezer -[2372.74 --> 2377.52] And this is where all our vegetables are sorted. So that's one of the areas next slide -[2378.16 --> 2380.84] This is our shopping area. So we have an area -[2381.64 --> 2384.88] When clients come in they can't actually they're just so many of them -[2385.16 --> 2390.64] We just don't have the time so we all their dry stuff we put in bins and we -[2390.88 --> 2394.88] Apportion out how much for a family of three or how much for a family of four to nine -[2394.88 --> 2397.96] So we give them that bin and here's where they shop for that -[2397.96 --> 2401.58] So they've tried to put in stuff. Okay next one the next one. This is the sorting area -[2401.58 --> 2406.34] This is where people we bring our all the stuff they comes in and we have to look to it -[2406.34 --> 2409.52] We look at dent cans and we looked at the conditions of things -[2409.88 --> 2413.34] Do you know that people are still bringing in really old food? -[2414.06 --> 2420.14] On the day that we had our open house a lady brought in a perfectly wrapped six tins of tuna -[2420.14 --> 2426.62] And I thought bonus and she was such a nice lady. I didn't look at the date the date was 2014 -[2426.62 --> 2434.92] It was still wrapped in the end is this I unbelievable but people what people bring in is crazy -[2435.08 --> 2436.08] All right next one -[2436.08 --> 2444.24] This is the whole reason we're there Jesus in the middle showing how he provided in biblical times and how he provides today -[2444.42 --> 2449.06] We want our clients not only to be fed physically but fed spiritually -[2449.06 --> 2452.16] So we want them to get to know Jesus -[2452.16 --> 2457.78] Let me close with the story -[2457.78 --> 2462.32] My heart is for the lost as i'm sure yours is -[2462.32 --> 2466.66] And there's one ex-pastor who on wednesdays comes and he talks to people -[2466.66 --> 2472.06] And over the last year he has gotten a group of four to six of our clients -[2472.06 --> 2474.64] Who actually attend church with him? -[2474.64 --> 2482.94] And in the middle of the church right around dell ex-pastor dell there's four to six of our clients -[2482.94 --> 2488.76] Who sit next to him and they ask him questions and they enjoy the worship and they hear the gospel -[2488.76 --> 2495.22] That is my heart's desire and it's always been is that we can bring our clients to churches like you guys -[2495.22 --> 2501.60] They would come with you sit with you hear the gospel and they would receive jesus christ as their personal savior -[2501.60 --> 2503.98] So thank you for giving us the means -[2503.98 --> 2509.52] To get them to come to us so that we can give them the real fruit the real bread of life -[2509.52 --> 2510.72] Jesus christ -[2510.72 --> 2523.08] So thanks jim for coming -[2523.08 --> 2526.94] We'll just take a minute to pray for jim before we host um the offering today -[2526.94 --> 2530.64] And I should say the offering today is for something else. Yeah, we'll introduce that in a minute -[2530.64 --> 2536.24] But we of course have the food bank on the offering schedule in the fall usually around thanksgiving again -[2536.24 --> 2538.54] Yeah, so let's pray for jim in the food bank a minute -[2538.54 --> 2541.70] Heavenly father. We thank you so much for bringing jim to us -[2541.70 --> 2544.04] But especially we thank you for the the messages -[2544.04 --> 2549.92] Um the message of success that is at the food bank their new location and the families are able to help -[2549.92 --> 2550.70] So we just pray -[2550.70 --> 2556.88] Your blessing your continued blessing on that ministry. We thank you for the hands that that sort and pack and clean and help -[2556.88 --> 2562.40] But we especially thank you for the conversations that are had and the way you are introduced to families across langley -[2562.40 --> 2565.62] So we leave the langley food bank in your hands god. Amen -[2565.62 --> 2567.62] Thank you -[2576.64 --> 2578.64] Thank you jim that was great -[2578.64 --> 2582.50] Um, good morning. My name is yap. I'm a deacon here at langley manual -[2583.38 --> 2586.50] This morning's offering will be for a cascade christian counseling -[2587.38 --> 2592.22] They are a non-profit organization that has been operating for over 40 years -[2592.22 --> 2597.02] Their mission is to provide christian counseling and consulting services -[2597.02 --> 2601.98] To the whole community and they do this by raising funds to be able to -[2602.62 --> 2606.70] Provide lower session fees to those who are unable to afford to get the help that they -[2607.42 --> 2610.70] Need please give as you're able to thank you -[2622.22 --> 2641.74] I hope it's built on nothing less than jesus' love and righteousness -[2641.74 --> 2647.74] I dare not trust the sweetest friend -[2647.74 --> 2653.74] But only trust in jesus name -[2653.74 --> 2669.74] My hope is built on nothing less than jesus' blood and righteousness -[2669.74 --> 2675.74] I dare not trust the sweetest friend -[2675.74 --> 2681.74] But only trust in jesus name -[2681.74 --> 2683.74] Christ the home -[2683.74 --> 2687.74] Christ the home -[2687.74 --> 2689.74] Cornerstone -[2689.74 --> 2693.74] We made strong -[2693.74 --> 2695.74] In the savior's love -[2695.74 --> 2697.74] Through the storm -[2697.74 --> 2699.74] He is Lord -[2699.74 --> 2701.74] Lord -[2701.74 --> 2703.74] Lord -[2703.74 --> 2705.74] Lord -[2705.74 --> 2707.74] Lord -[2707.74 --> 2720.74] You -[2720.74 --> 2725.74] May -[2725.74 --> 2736.74] In every high and stormy gale, my anchor holds within the veil. -[2738.86 --> 2743.74] My anchor holds within the veil. -[2743.74 --> 2758.74] Christ of all, heart is strong, wingman strong, Savior's love. -[2758.74 --> 2768.74] Through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[2773.74 --> 2785.74] When He shall come with trumpet sound, O may I then in Him be found. -[2785.74 --> 2798.74] Dressed in His righteousness alone, Fauntless stand before the throne. -[2798.74 --> 2811.74] Christ of all, heart is strong, wingman strong, Savior's love. -[2811.74 --> 2821.74] Through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[2821.74 --> 2834.74] Christ of all, heart is strong, Lord of all. -[2834.74 --> 2846.74] In the Savior's heart, through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[2846.74 --> 2856.74] Good morning. -[2856.74 --> 2859.74] I'm going to invite all the young kids to come forward. -[2859.74 --> 2861.74] I think ages three, four, and five. -[2861.74 --> 2868.74] We can do the children's blessing before we head off to children's worship time. -[2868.74 --> 2883.74] A few yet thinking about coming up? -[2883.74 --> 2884.74] Hi, guys. -[2884.74 --> 2886.74] There's just a few of us today. -[2886.74 --> 2887.74] Yeah? -[2887.74 --> 2890.74] Have you guys, what are your big summer highlights so far? -[2890.74 --> 2893.74] We're coming to the end of summer and almost time for school again. -[2893.74 --> 2897.74] Have you guys had any big highlights this summer? -[2897.74 --> 2900.74] Maybe any special camping trips? -[2900.74 --> 2901.74] No? -[2901.74 --> 2904.74] Or maybe special projects at home? -[2904.74 --> 2908.74] Like helping in the vegetable garden or the flower garden? -[2908.74 --> 2910.74] Have you had any special projects? -[2910.74 --> 2911.74] Not sure? -[2911.74 --> 2912.74] Not sure? -[2912.74 --> 2913.74] Thinking about it? -[2913.74 --> 2914.74] Yeah. -[2914.74 --> 2915.74] I know. -[2915.74 --> 2916.74] Tricky question. -[2916.74 --> 2920.74] I know the summer is full of great highlights and great stories that we usually end the summer -[2920.74 --> 2921.74] with, right? -[2921.74 --> 2926.74] So this morning, Pastor Chris is going to continue sharing some great highlights from the New Testament. -[2926.74 --> 2931.74] And we are going to enjoy some time in children's worship time, talking about a couple of special highlights there, too. -[2931.74 --> 2937.74] And then, in a couple of weeks, we'll get back to the regular children's worship time schedule. -[2937.74 --> 2938.74] Sound good? -[2938.74 --> 2939.74] Yeah? -[2939.74 --> 2946.74] Okay, let's stand together with the congregation and we will bless them as they stay to listen to Pastor Chris and a message. -[2946.74 --> 2950.74] And we will enjoy also a blessing from them. -[2950.74 --> 2951.74] All right. -[2951.74 --> 2952.74] Let's raise our hand. -[2952.74 --> 2955.74] The Lord be with you. -[2955.74 --> 2957.74] And also with you. -[2961.74 --> 2963.74] Thank you. -[2963.74 --> 2968.74] Hi. -[2968.74 --> 2985.74] My name is Paul and I am an elder here at this church. -[2985.74 --> 2990.12] ask you to join me in a prayer for our church family. -[2997.46 --> 2998.56] Father in heaven, -[2999.80 --> 3001.58] holy are you, God. -[3003.58 --> 3006.44] Who else commands all the hosts of heaven? -[3007.82 --> 3010.78] Who else could make every knee bow down? -[3012.00 --> 3015.58] Who else can whisper and the darkness trembles? -[3016.70 --> 3019.44] Only you, God, our holy God. -[3021.06 --> 3025.04] What other beauty demands such praises? -[3026.52 --> 3028.96] What other splendor outshines the sun? -[3030.36 --> 3033.84] What other majesty rules with justice? -[3034.92 --> 3037.52] Only you, God, our holy God. -[3039.44 --> 3042.08] What other glory consumes like fire? -[3043.14 --> 3045.68] What other power can raise the dead? -[3046.74 --> 3049.92] What other name remains undefeated? -[3049.92 --> 3054.46] Only you, God, our holy God. -[3054.46 --> 3059.66] Who else could rescue us from our failings? -[3061.00 --> 3064.14] Who else would offer his only son? -[3065.98 --> 3069.10] Who else invites us to call him Father? -[3069.10 --> 3072.72] Father, only a holy God. -[3073.72 --> 3076.02] Only our holy God. -[3078.78 --> 3083.62] Father, we give you thanks for bringing us together as this community we call Emmanuel, -[3085.00 --> 3085.92] God with us. -[3085.92 --> 3091.16] We pray that you will bless us in our worship and bless our fellowship. -[3092.46 --> 3094.76] We give you thanks for this place to meet. -[3094.76 --> 3104.68] We thank you, God, for Christ's church as we know it and see it throughout the world and pray for your blessing on it. -[3104.68 --> 3109.72] Father, we pray for those who are persecuted for your name, Father. -[3109.72 --> 3114.46] Father, your son prayed that we might be one. -[3114.46 --> 3115.46] Father, we pray for those who are persecuted for our church. -[3115.46 --> 3116.46] Father, we pray for those who are persecuted for our church. -[3116.46 --> 3124.06] And we pray that he, by your spirit, would be about the work of bringing that true for our church, for your church. -[3124.06 --> 3132.00] We ask that your spirit will fill our hearts so that we pray. -[3133.54 --> 3140.68] Help us in our prayers to be thankful in all circumstances, wherever we are, whatever is happening in our lives. -[3142.06 --> 3151.58] Help us be aware that prayer is the most important part of our thankfulness and response to the gift of grace and the redemption in our lives. -[3154.06 --> 3156.68] With this in mind, Lord, we come to you. -[3158.76 --> 3168.10] We thank you, along with Judy Dykstra, that her friend Vera has recovered from shingles and is back at the Bible study that they hold together. -[3168.66 --> 3170.48] We thank you for healing Vera. -[3172.48 --> 3177.94] We're thankful, along with Adam and Rachel Smith, for their precious baby boy, Lucas Lars. -[3177.94 --> 3182.16] We thank you for the safe arrival of this little boy. -[3182.30 --> 3186.70] And we pray that you will continue to walk beside Adam and Rachel as they raise Lucas. -[3189.04 --> 3192.40] We pray, Lord, that you will be with Emo and Benita Smith. -[3193.96 --> 3196.70] Emo's surgery was postponed again to September 9. -[3197.58 --> 3202.52] We pray that you will fill them with peace and patience and strength during this time. -[3202.52 --> 3206.96] Lord, we also pray for the greater world. -[3207.24 --> 3209.92] We pray that our leaders may do your will. -[3211.60 --> 3214.82] We pray for the ongoing war and unrest in the Middle East. -[3215.52 --> 3221.30] We know that your hand is over all these things and trust that your will will be done. -[3221.30 --> 3227.76] As summer break time is almost over, we pray that you will be with the students, -[3228.64 --> 3236.60] especially those who are in the middle of traveling to faraway places to go to college and university. -[3236.82 --> 3240.96] Lord, we ask that you will give them safe travels. -[3242.10 --> 3247.12] Pray for the school leadership, teachers, and parents as they look forward to a new year. -[3247.12 --> 3256.10] Lord, we ask that you will continue to work through those who help at the food bank. -[3256.26 --> 3259.02] Lord, we ask that you will bless this ministry. -[3260.68 --> 3263.82] We pray that you will continue to walk beside our pastors. -[3264.84 --> 3267.28] Give them the wisdom and the spirit to lead us. -[3268.94 --> 3272.76] We pray now that you will bless the word we are about to hear. -[3272.76 --> 3277.84] Father, we pray that you will pour out your spirit on Pastor Chris as he preaches that word. -[3279.94 --> 3283.84] Father, we pray that our eyes will be continually fixed on Jesus -[3283.84 --> 3288.18] and that in everything we do, we will say, -[3289.18 --> 3290.46] But I see Jesus. -[3292.52 --> 3297.74] We pray that by your spirit, we will bring into our hearts to believe and trust in you alone. -[3298.84 --> 3301.76] By your name alone, we ask for all these things. -[3301.76 --> 3303.00] Amen. -[3319.00 --> 3329.34] We are going to continue in our looking at stories from the early church through the book of Acts. -[3329.34 --> 3334.60] We are going to read together from Acts 18 this morning. -[3334.94 --> 3335.68] Acts 18. -[3335.78 --> 3342.60] I am going to read verses 18 to 28 as part of our looking this morning. -[3342.76 --> 3346.72] If you have a Bible with you, I encourage you to open that up and to keep that open. -[3347.20 --> 3349.58] If you don't and you would like one, you can get one from the back. -[3349.80 --> 3353.84] There are a couple available there for your use as well. -[3353.84 --> 3361.26] As always, through the summer, if you're a kid with us here, we have some clipboards available -[3361.26 --> 3367.42] and one of those pages is an opportunity to draw a picture based on what you hear in this message -[3367.42 --> 3371.38] or based on something else if I'm not captivating enough for you. -[3371.58 --> 3377.68] And we are collecting those and we'll make a bit of an art display at the end of the summer together with that. -[3377.68 --> 3381.48] So let's read God's word together. -[3382.86 --> 3384.86] Start at verse 18. -[3384.86 --> 3389.98] Paul stayed on in Corinth for some time. -[3390.58 --> 3396.68] Then he left the brothers and sisters and sailed for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. -[3397.38 --> 3403.00] Before he sailed, he had his hair cut off at Cancria because of a vow he had taken. -[3403.74 --> 3406.94] They arrived at Ephesus where Paul left Priscilla and Aquila. -[3407.52 --> 3410.90] He himself went into the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews. -[3410.90 --> 3414.68] When they asked him to spend more time with them, he declined. -[3415.40 --> 3419.42] But as he left, he promised, I will come back if it is God's will. -[3420.06 --> 3421.78] Then he set sail from Ephesus. -[3422.42 --> 3428.82] While he landed at Caesarea, he went up to Jerusalem and greeted the church and then went down to Antioch. -[3429.28 --> 3434.42] After spending some time in Antioch, Paul set out from there and traveled from place to place -[3434.42 --> 3439.26] throughout the region of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples. -[3439.26 --> 3443.58] Meanwhile, so that means back in Ephesus, -[3444.22 --> 3449.82] meanwhile, a Jew named Apollos and a native of Alexandria came to Ephesus. -[3450.64 --> 3453.92] He was a learned man with a thorough knowledge of the scriptures. -[3454.70 --> 3456.94] He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, -[3457.12 --> 3461.04] and he spoke with great fervor and taught about Jesus accurately, -[3461.38 --> 3464.10] though he knew only the baptism of John. -[3464.10 --> 3467.28] He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. -[3468.18 --> 3469.92] When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, -[3470.38 --> 3475.10] they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately. -[3476.08 --> 3478.66] When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, -[3479.06 --> 3483.42] the brothers and sisters encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. -[3484.22 --> 3488.42] When he arrived, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed, -[3488.42 --> 3493.04] for he vigorously refuted his Jewish opponents in public debate, -[3493.50 --> 3496.68] proving from the scriptures that Jesus was the Messiah. -[3497.38 --> 3498.84] This is the word of the Lord. -[3504.46 --> 3506.86] Now, I suspect I'm not alone in this, -[3506.98 --> 3508.64] but when I was young, -[3508.64 --> 3515.00] one of my favorite indoor pastimes was Lego. -[3516.18 --> 3521.02] I used to love getting Lego and then following the instructions. -[3521.44 --> 3522.64] We would do that one time, -[3522.68 --> 3524.86] and then we would destroy it and lose the instructions, -[3525.28 --> 3529.34] and then we would play with these massive rubbermaid totes of Lego -[3529.34 --> 3532.44] that we had accumulated over the years for hours on end. -[3532.44 --> 3536.32] We would just tip them out on the floor and then just go at it. -[3536.32 --> 3541.16] I used to love to make all the pieces fit nicely together. -[3541.32 --> 3543.96] And in fact, I think I developed a pretty good skill -[3543.96 --> 3546.36] that continued and stayed with me, -[3546.40 --> 3549.30] such that when my son started to get into Lego, -[3550.04 --> 3552.64] that was one of my best moments as a parent. -[3553.38 --> 3556.32] Because I would sit down and I would get to play Lego with Malachi, -[3556.56 --> 3560.50] and honestly, one of the hardest things about being a parent of a nine-year-old boy -[3560.50 --> 3561.96] is when he looks at you and says, -[3562.04 --> 3563.68] Dad, I don't need your help with Lego anymore. -[3563.68 --> 3566.68] And he can do it himself. -[3567.68 --> 3569.12] And he builds his own thing. -[3569.22 --> 3572.10] But he too then sees the parts fit together -[3572.10 --> 3575.18] and how it comes to make up the whole. -[3576.32 --> 3579.28] When I was young, I thought I was so good at that, -[3579.36 --> 3581.26] I actually took a radio apart -[3581.26 --> 3583.78] and thought I could put it back together, -[3584.50 --> 3588.32] realizing I couldn't tell the transistor from a battery lead. -[3588.32 --> 3590.68] And so, no, I couldn't put it back together, -[3590.82 --> 3592.46] and that radio ended up in the garbage can. -[3593.06 --> 3594.36] And I don't think anyone noticed, -[3594.64 --> 3597.66] at least not until I've now confessed it in front of my parents. -[3600.60 --> 3603.94] But it is a beautiful thing to me -[3603.94 --> 3607.22] to see how the little parts and pieces -[3607.22 --> 3608.90] can come together -[3608.90 --> 3612.98] to make a beautiful whole, -[3613.48 --> 3615.24] to make a picture -[3615.24 --> 3618.92] that is greater than the sum of its parts, right? -[3618.92 --> 3620.50] When you see one little brick -[3620.50 --> 3624.82] and imagine its place in the Robin Hood castled forest -[3624.82 --> 3628.06] is really compelling to me. -[3628.06 --> 3632.54] I think, by way of analogy, -[3633.32 --> 3635.70] that's a really helpful model -[3635.70 --> 3637.24] or understanding for us -[3637.24 --> 3640.86] of what it means to be church, right? -[3640.94 --> 3642.78] Individual pieces and parts -[3642.78 --> 3644.40] that come together -[3644.40 --> 3647.04] to make this beautiful whole, -[3647.58 --> 3648.60] that come together -[3648.60 --> 3652.10] doing their part in their place, -[3652.10 --> 3654.44] and then the sum of that -[3654.44 --> 3656.78] is majestic. -[3656.78 --> 3660.16] I think is really compelling. -[3661.50 --> 3662.54] Now, these stories -[3662.54 --> 3663.20] that we've been reading -[3663.20 --> 3664.34] in the book of Acts -[3664.34 --> 3666.42] paint for us -[3666.42 --> 3667.64] sort of a picture -[3667.64 --> 3670.40] of what an active church community -[3670.40 --> 3672.04] can be like together -[3672.04 --> 3674.34] and what it does for one another. -[3675.84 --> 3677.08] Now, to be clear, -[3677.84 --> 3680.08] what we get in this text that we read -[3680.08 --> 3681.14] and throughout the book of Acts, -[3681.14 --> 3681.72] mostly, -[3682.20 --> 3684.16] are descriptive events -[3684.16 --> 3686.14] that become healthy examples -[3686.14 --> 3687.56] examples for us -[3687.56 --> 3690.54] of what churches do. -[3691.90 --> 3692.50] And so what I hope -[3692.50 --> 3694.04] that we can see this morning -[3694.04 --> 3695.34] and looking particularly -[3695.34 --> 3697.88] here in the book of Acts -[3697.88 --> 3700.24] in this story of Priscilla -[3700.24 --> 3701.84] and Aquila and Apollos -[3701.84 --> 3705.48] is how a healthy, -[3706.20 --> 3707.48] functioning church -[3707.48 --> 3710.18] embraces and utilizes -[3710.18 --> 3711.46] spiritual gifts -[3711.46 --> 3712.92] for the building up -[3712.92 --> 3713.40] of the body. -[3714.22 --> 3715.50] Or to put it another way, -[3715.82 --> 3716.92] how the little pieces -[3716.92 --> 3718.74] all fit together -[3718.74 --> 3720.58] to make a beautiful thing. -[3722.82 --> 3725.34] So Priscilla and Aquila -[3725.34 --> 3727.38] are companions of Paul -[3727.38 --> 3729.54] and they serve the church -[3729.54 --> 3731.58] by taking in Apollos -[3731.58 --> 3732.72] and they teach him -[3732.72 --> 3735.34] more of what he had already learned -[3735.34 --> 3736.78] about Jesus and the gospel. -[3736.78 --> 3737.54] And then, -[3737.92 --> 3738.74] with Paul, -[3738.86 --> 3739.92] they send him out -[3739.92 --> 3740.64] as a teacher -[3740.64 --> 3741.92] and an encourager -[3741.92 --> 3743.06] in their community. -[3743.94 --> 3744.08] Right? -[3744.12 --> 3744.64] In summary, -[3745.06 --> 3746.48] they use their gifts -[3746.48 --> 3747.98] in order to facilitate -[3747.98 --> 3748.90] Apollos -[3748.90 --> 3750.10] using his gifts -[3750.10 --> 3751.46] in order to facilitate -[3751.46 --> 3752.42] the building up -[3752.42 --> 3753.36] of the body. -[3753.36 --> 3756.30] Now, -[3756.78 --> 3758.16] before we look -[3758.16 --> 3760.10] into Priscilla -[3760.10 --> 3760.80] and Aquila -[3760.80 --> 3761.80] and Apollos -[3761.80 --> 3762.70] as an example, -[3763.62 --> 3764.90] just a little bit more -[3764.90 --> 3766.16] on who they are -[3766.16 --> 3767.48] and how they fit -[3767.48 --> 3768.66] into this story. -[3770.32 --> 3770.68] You see, -[3770.74 --> 3772.14] sometime around -[3772.14 --> 3774.80] AD 50 or 51, -[3775.72 --> 3777.02] Emperor Claudius -[3777.02 --> 3777.80] in Rome -[3777.80 --> 3779.20] issued a decree -[3779.20 --> 3781.20] expelling all the Jews -[3781.20 --> 3782.52] from the city of Rome. -[3783.36 --> 3783.92] Priscilla -[3783.92 --> 3785.10] and Aquila -[3785.10 --> 3786.18] left Italy -[3786.18 --> 3787.10] at that time -[3787.10 --> 3788.64] and they moved -[3788.64 --> 3789.40] to Corinth -[3789.40 --> 3791.36] which is in central Greece -[3791.36 --> 3792.40] sort of near Athens. -[3793.72 --> 3794.04] Corinth -[3794.04 --> 3795.36] is where they met Paul. -[3796.22 --> 3796.34] Now, -[3796.38 --> 3796.92] what we learn -[3796.92 --> 3797.58] is that Priscilla -[3797.58 --> 3798.18] and Aquila -[3798.18 --> 3799.38] are tent makers -[3799.38 --> 3800.90] just like Paul -[3800.90 --> 3801.90] and because of -[3801.90 --> 3803.00] their shared profession, -[3803.48 --> 3804.02] because of their -[3804.02 --> 3804.74] shared commitment -[3804.74 --> 3805.42] to the scriptures -[3805.42 --> 3806.62] and their love for Jesus, -[3807.12 --> 3807.76] the three -[3807.76 --> 3809.00] stay together -[3809.00 --> 3810.16] and work together -[3810.16 --> 3811.24] and minister together -[3811.24 --> 3812.44] for a year and a half -[3812.44 --> 3813.18] in Corinth. -[3813.36 --> 3815.16] Now, -[3815.22 --> 3816.32] after that year and a half, -[3816.80 --> 3817.88] Priscilla and Aquila -[3817.88 --> 3818.64] and Paul -[3818.64 --> 3820.24] sail for Syria -[3820.24 --> 3821.66] for further -[3821.66 --> 3822.92] mission work together. -[3823.44 --> 3824.04] Just a note, -[3824.60 --> 3826.84] our text says -[3826.84 --> 3827.64] there -[3827.64 --> 3830.54] in verse 18 -[3830.54 --> 3832.46] that before he sailed, -[3832.72 --> 3833.44] that's Paul, -[3833.64 --> 3835.14] he had his hair cut off -[3835.14 --> 3835.82] at Cancria -[3835.82 --> 3837.10] because of a vow -[3837.10 --> 3837.90] that he had taken. -[3837.90 --> 3839.50] Now, -[3840.22 --> 3841.64] this is probably -[3841.64 --> 3842.42] a reference -[3842.42 --> 3844.74] to a Nazarite vow -[3844.74 --> 3846.16] that's described -[3846.16 --> 3847.14] in the Old Testament -[3847.14 --> 3848.06] in Numbers 6 -[3848.06 --> 3849.52] through 1 through 20. -[3850.18 --> 3851.54] A Nazarite vow -[3851.54 --> 3852.58] was a special -[3852.58 --> 3854.46] vow of consecration, -[3854.58 --> 3855.40] a special oath -[3855.40 --> 3856.80] of consecration -[3856.80 --> 3857.96] to God -[3857.96 --> 3858.68] that involved -[3858.68 --> 3860.14] several specific -[3860.14 --> 3861.20] commitments. -[3861.20 --> 3862.66] One of them -[3862.66 --> 3863.52] was to abstain -[3863.52 --> 3864.22] from wine -[3864.22 --> 3864.96] or other -[3864.96 --> 3865.88] fermented drinks. -[3866.68 --> 3867.32] A Nazarite -[3867.32 --> 3868.74] was to avoid -[3868.74 --> 3869.86] all things -[3869.86 --> 3871.32] derived from grapes, -[3871.54 --> 3872.88] including wine, -[3872.98 --> 3873.78] but also vinegar -[3873.78 --> 3875.30] or even fresh grapes -[3875.30 --> 3876.04] and raisins. -[3876.04 --> 3878.24] a Nazarite -[3878.24 --> 3878.70] was also -[3878.70 --> 3879.44] to avoid -[3879.44 --> 3880.08] contact -[3880.08 --> 3880.82] with the dead -[3880.82 --> 3882.68] and they -[3882.68 --> 3883.52] made a commitment -[3883.52 --> 3884.62] to not -[3884.62 --> 3885.66] cut their hair. -[3886.30 --> 3886.74] The hair -[3886.74 --> 3887.82] was to grow long -[3887.82 --> 3888.64] as a sign -[3888.64 --> 3889.22] of the vow -[3889.22 --> 3889.58] that they -[3889.58 --> 3890.80] had promised -[3890.80 --> 3891.30] and made -[3891.30 --> 3892.04] and at the end -[3892.04 --> 3893.32] of that period -[3893.32 --> 3893.80] of time, -[3893.84 --> 3894.52] at the conclusion -[3894.52 --> 3895.14] of the vow, -[3895.26 --> 3895.96] they would shave -[3895.96 --> 3896.64] their head -[3896.64 --> 3897.84] as part of -[3897.84 --> 3898.74] their offering -[3898.74 --> 3899.50] a sacrifice -[3899.50 --> 3900.40] in the temple. -[3901.32 --> 3901.42] Now, -[3901.46 --> 3901.68] the word -[3901.68 --> 3902.26] Nazarite -[3902.26 --> 3903.16] comes from -[3903.16 --> 3904.16] the Hebrew word -[3904.16 --> 3904.92] nazir, -[3905.04 --> 3905.36] which means -[3905.36 --> 3906.02] consecrated, -[3906.04 --> 3906.88] or set apart -[3906.88 --> 3908.06] and it's like -[3908.06 --> 3908.40] we said, -[3908.46 --> 3908.76] it's someone -[3908.76 --> 3909.20] who has -[3909.20 --> 3910.18] set themselves -[3910.18 --> 3910.70] apart -[3910.70 --> 3911.44] in dedication -[3911.44 --> 3912.76] to God -[3912.76 --> 3913.38] by these -[3913.38 --> 3914.80] particular practices. -[3915.70 --> 3916.52] I want to clarify -[3916.52 --> 3917.94] that Nazarite -[3917.94 --> 3918.98] is not the same -[3918.98 --> 3919.86] as Nazareth -[3919.86 --> 3921.46] or Nazarene, -[3922.00 --> 3923.22] which is derived -[3923.22 --> 3923.82] from a different -[3923.82 --> 3925.28] Hebrew or Aramaic word, -[3925.82 --> 3926.36] natsar, -[3926.50 --> 3927.10] meaning watch, -[3927.26 --> 3928.02] or natser, -[3928.38 --> 3929.18] meaning branch. -[3930.04 --> 3931.22] Why do I tell you this? -[3931.74 --> 3932.36] In part, -[3932.48 --> 3933.24] because when I was -[3933.24 --> 3933.92] in seminary, -[3934.22 --> 3934.76] I had to do -[3934.76 --> 3935.76] a Bible knowledge -[3935.76 --> 3936.30] exam -[3936.30 --> 3937.46] to graduate -[3937.46 --> 3938.32] and one of the -[3938.32 --> 3938.94] questions was, -[3939.04 --> 3939.52] where did Paul -[3939.52 --> 3940.20] get his hair cut? -[3941.20 --> 3941.86] And so now you can -[3941.86 --> 3942.70] pass the Bible knowledge -[3942.70 --> 3943.66] exam in seminary -[3943.66 --> 3944.82] or at least one -[3944.82 --> 3945.58] question out of the -[3945.58 --> 3946.72] 130 or so -[3946.72 --> 3947.20] that were there. -[3948.50 --> 3949.40] But also -[3949.40 --> 3950.60] because, -[3951.50 --> 3951.82] right, -[3951.88 --> 3953.04] this is filling -[3953.04 --> 3953.94] in for us -[3953.94 --> 3954.68] a little bit -[3954.68 --> 3956.02] of who Paul -[3956.02 --> 3956.50] is -[3956.50 --> 3957.30] and how he -[3957.30 --> 3957.94] functions -[3957.94 --> 3958.94] as a missionary -[3958.94 --> 3959.48] because this -[3959.48 --> 3960.40] comes back -[3960.40 --> 3960.90] again -[3960.90 --> 3961.98] in Acts 21 -[3961.98 --> 3963.16] where Paul -[3963.16 --> 3964.18] is in Jerusalem -[3964.18 --> 3964.64] now -[3964.64 --> 3965.76] and he participates -[3965.76 --> 3966.64] in a purification -[3966.64 --> 3967.08] rite -[3967.08 --> 3967.98] with others -[3967.98 --> 3968.62] who have taken -[3968.62 --> 3969.08] vows. -[3969.50 --> 3969.96] Again, -[3970.08 --> 3970.90] probably connected -[3970.90 --> 3971.80] to this Nazarite -[3971.80 --> 3972.14] vow. -[3974.08 --> 3974.54] And so what you -[3974.54 --> 3975.10] see -[3975.10 --> 3976.66] is that Paul -[3976.66 --> 3979.14] is still -[3979.14 --> 3979.80] connected -[3979.80 --> 3981.48] to this -[3981.48 --> 3982.54] cultural -[3982.54 --> 3983.68] practice. -[3984.22 --> 3984.36] Now, -[3984.40 --> 3984.60] I don't want -[3984.60 --> 3985.22] to make too much -[3985.22 --> 3985.52] of it -[3985.52 --> 3986.30] because the text -[3986.30 --> 3986.76] doesn't make -[3986.76 --> 3987.66] too much of it, -[3987.66 --> 3988.90] but so that -[3988.90 --> 3989.34] we don't get -[3989.34 --> 3990.16] stuck on a question, -[3990.28 --> 3990.68] why on earth -[3990.68 --> 3991.46] did he do this, -[3991.78 --> 3992.34] I do think -[3992.34 --> 3992.82] it's important -[3992.82 --> 3993.76] for us to say -[3993.76 --> 3995.52] that Paul -[3995.52 --> 3997.54] as a Jewish -[3997.54 --> 3998.34] man -[3998.34 --> 3999.24] was never -[3999.24 --> 4000.24] too far -[4000.24 --> 4001.02] from the -[4001.02 --> 4001.26] sort of -[4001.26 --> 4002.20] social religious -[4002.20 --> 4002.92] practices -[4002.92 --> 4004.34] of his culture. -[4005.78 --> 4006.00] Right, -[4006.06 --> 4006.78] even as he -[4006.78 --> 4007.28] proclaimed -[4007.28 --> 4008.02] freedom -[4008.02 --> 4008.50] from the -[4008.50 --> 4009.16] ritualistic -[4009.16 --> 4009.74] identities -[4009.74 --> 4010.64] in Jesus -[4010.64 --> 4011.08] Christ, -[4011.20 --> 4011.84] even as he -[4011.84 --> 4012.56] advocated -[4012.56 --> 4013.50] not requiring -[4013.50 --> 4014.46] Gentiles -[4014.46 --> 4015.00] to submit -[4015.00 --> 4015.44] to many -[4015.44 --> 4015.78] of these -[4015.78 --> 4016.42] same sorts -[4016.42 --> 4017.36] of things, -[4017.36 --> 4018.40] these culturally -[4018.40 --> 4019.64] Jewish ideas, -[4020.06 --> 4020.22] right, -[4020.32 --> 4021.30] even as a -[4021.30 --> 4022.06] Jewish Christian -[4022.06 --> 4023.04] he still -[4023.04 --> 4023.74] lived a -[4023.74 --> 4023.98] Jewish -[4023.98 --> 4024.46] cultural -[4024.46 --> 4024.98] life. -[4026.00 --> 4026.88] Even as a -[4026.88 --> 4027.34] citizen of -[4027.34 --> 4027.66] the kingdom -[4027.66 --> 4028.08] of heaven -[4028.08 --> 4028.60] first and -[4028.60 --> 4029.10] foremost, -[4029.38 --> 4030.34] he lived -[4030.34 --> 4030.80] as a -[4030.80 --> 4031.12] citizen -[4031.12 --> 4031.88] in the -[4031.88 --> 4032.26] world -[4032.26 --> 4032.94] while on -[4032.94 --> 4033.20] mission. -[4035.20 --> 4035.94] And I -[4035.94 --> 4036.38] think there's -[4036.38 --> 4036.92] something for -[4036.92 --> 4037.64] us to see -[4037.64 --> 4038.88] in that. -[4040.08 --> 4040.80] But how -[4040.80 --> 4041.62] we understand -[4041.62 --> 4043.04] the relationship -[4043.04 --> 4044.26] of Christian -[4044.26 --> 4044.82] mission -[4044.82 --> 4045.72] and identity -[4045.72 --> 4046.96] to the -[4046.96 --> 4047.42] culture -[4047.42 --> 4048.86] around us -[4048.86 --> 4050.62] and what -[4050.62 --> 4051.20] it means -[4051.20 --> 4051.94] to be -[4051.94 --> 4052.44] both -[4052.44 --> 4053.10] Christian -[4053.10 --> 4053.94] and, -[4054.18 --> 4054.66] for instance, -[4055.22 --> 4055.66] Canadian. -[4056.94 --> 4057.64] What it -[4057.64 --> 4058.36] means to be -[4058.36 --> 4059.14] Christian, -[4059.30 --> 4059.68] a citizen -[4059.68 --> 4059.98] of the -[4059.98 --> 4060.14] kingdom -[4060.14 --> 4060.62] of heaven, -[4060.78 --> 4061.26] and what -[4061.26 --> 4061.66] it means -[4061.66 --> 4062.18] to be -[4062.18 --> 4062.78] a resident -[4062.78 --> 4063.98] of Langley. -[4065.38 --> 4066.10] And the -[4066.10 --> 4066.60] kinds of -[4066.60 --> 4067.10] things that -[4067.10 --> 4067.50] we do -[4067.50 --> 4067.86] and are -[4067.86 --> 4068.26] involved -[4068.26 --> 4068.60] with -[4068.60 --> 4069.12] and the -[4069.12 --> 4069.52] practices -[4069.52 --> 4069.94] that we -[4069.94 --> 4070.30] have -[4070.30 --> 4070.82] as -[4070.82 --> 4071.22] Christians -[4071.22 --> 4071.74] who are -[4071.74 --> 4072.46] on mission -[4072.46 --> 4073.18] like -[4073.18 --> 4073.54] Paul -[4073.54 --> 4074.38] was. -[4078.60 --> 4079.12] Now, -[4079.32 --> 4080.94] I'm not -[4080.94 --> 4081.24] going to -[4081.24 --> 4081.74] spell that -[4081.74 --> 4082.14] out for -[4082.14 --> 4083.46] you about -[4083.46 --> 4083.86] what that -[4083.86 --> 4084.18] means. -[4084.46 --> 4084.96] Jim actually -[4084.96 --> 4085.36] gave us an -[4085.36 --> 4085.88] example of -[4085.88 --> 4086.26] maybe what -[4086.26 --> 4086.62] part of -[4086.62 --> 4086.96] that looks -[4086.96 --> 4087.28] like. -[4089.24 --> 4089.98] But all -[4089.98 --> 4090.50] of you -[4090.50 --> 4092.44] have to -[4092.44 --> 4092.68] do the -[4092.68 --> 4093.10] work -[4093.10 --> 4094.36] of figuring -[4094.36 --> 4094.92] that out. -[4095.92 --> 4096.42] What does -[4096.42 --> 4096.74] it mean -[4096.74 --> 4097.38] for me -[4097.38 --> 4098.72] as a -[4098.72 --> 4099.08] Christian -[4099.08 --> 4099.82] on mission -[4099.82 --> 4101.18] in this -[4101.18 --> 4101.64] time -[4101.64 --> 4102.00] and in -[4102.00 --> 4102.24] this -[4102.24 --> 4102.76] place -[4102.76 --> 4104.14] to -[4104.14 --> 4104.52] proclaim -[4104.52 --> 4104.84] this -[4104.84 --> 4105.30] same -[4105.30 --> 4106.56] message? -[4106.90 --> 4107.12] And what -[4107.12 --> 4107.82] is really -[4107.82 --> 4108.42] important -[4108.42 --> 4110.04] and what -[4110.04 --> 4110.48] is less -[4110.48 --> 4110.74] so? -[4111.70 --> 4112.26] What's -[4112.26 --> 4112.68] really -[4112.68 --> 4113.12] important -[4113.12 --> 4113.40] for me -[4113.40 --> 4113.68] to make -[4113.68 --> 4113.96] sure I -[4113.96 --> 4114.54] stand on -[4114.54 --> 4114.80] firm -[4114.80 --> 4115.08] ground -[4115.08 --> 4115.68] and boldly -[4115.68 --> 4115.98] proclaim -[4115.98 --> 4117.38] and what -[4117.38 --> 4117.82] is less -[4117.82 --> 4119.20] so for -[4119.20 --> 4119.52] me to -[4119.52 --> 4119.92] allow -[4119.92 --> 4120.76] to happen? -[4123.74 --> 4124.30] I'll -[4124.30 --> 4124.52] leave that -[4124.52 --> 4124.80] with you. -[4126.48 --> 4127.16] So Paul -[4127.16 --> 4128.80] and Priscilla -[4128.80 --> 4129.42] and Aquila -[4129.42 --> 4130.12] arrive in -[4130.12 --> 4130.48] Ephesus -[4130.48 --> 4131.24] where they -[4131.24 --> 4131.70] spend some -[4131.70 --> 4132.20] time doing -[4132.20 --> 4132.58] ministry -[4132.58 --> 4133.00] together. -[4133.60 --> 4134.02] Paul would -[4134.02 --> 4134.52] go to the -[4134.52 --> 4134.82] synagogue -[4134.82 --> 4135.54] preaching and -[4135.54 --> 4135.84] teaching. -[4136.62 --> 4137.34] Early church -[4137.34 --> 4138.46] tradition suggests -[4138.46 --> 4139.02] that Priscilla -[4139.02 --> 4139.56] and Aquila -[4139.56 --> 4140.10] would host -[4140.10 --> 4141.18] the church -[4141.18 --> 4141.50] in their -[4141.50 --> 4142.64] house as -[4142.64 --> 4143.00] they went. -[4144.32 --> 4144.82] Eventually -[4144.82 --> 4145.74] Paul leaves -[4145.74 --> 4146.36] and continues -[4146.36 --> 4147.36] his missionary -[4147.36 --> 4148.32] journeys leaving -[4148.32 --> 4149.02] Priscilla and -[4149.02 --> 4149.82] Aquila behind -[4149.82 --> 4150.44] in Ephesus. -[4151.18 --> 4151.44] And while -[4151.44 --> 4152.08] they're there -[4152.08 --> 4153.36] Apollos comes -[4153.36 --> 4154.58] and we learn -[4154.58 --> 4155.14] that Apollos -[4155.14 --> 4155.90] is an eloquent -[4155.90 --> 4156.82] and capable -[4156.82 --> 4157.56] speaker. -[4158.22 --> 4159.28] He is an -[4159.28 --> 4159.74] excellent -[4159.74 --> 4160.62] preacher and -[4160.62 --> 4161.62] recognizing -[4161.62 --> 4163.02] his potential -[4163.02 --> 4164.16] Priscilla and -[4164.16 --> 4165.16] Aquila are -[4165.16 --> 4165.92] encouraged and -[4165.92 --> 4166.60] they hear him -[4166.60 --> 4167.30] and then they -[4167.30 --> 4168.20] notice a few -[4168.20 --> 4169.44] little gaps -[4169.44 --> 4170.22] in his -[4170.22 --> 4170.88] understanding. -[4171.02 --> 4171.22] A few -[4171.22 --> 4171.54] little -[4171.54 --> 4173.06] incomplete -[4173.06 --> 4173.96] ideas. -[4174.62 --> 4174.94] And so they -[4174.94 --> 4175.40] take him -[4175.40 --> 4175.84] aside. -[4176.04 --> 4176.64] They open -[4176.64 --> 4176.94] up their -[4176.94 --> 4177.60] home to -[4177.60 --> 4178.38] him and -[4178.38 --> 4179.12] they explain -[4179.12 --> 4179.58] the way -[4179.58 --> 4180.10] of God -[4180.10 --> 4180.88] more accurately. -[4182.16 --> 4182.86] Now Apollos -[4182.86 --> 4183.56] we learn -[4183.56 --> 4184.16] is introduced -[4184.16 --> 4185.04] as a Jew -[4185.04 --> 4185.36] from -[4185.36 --> 4185.96] Alexandria -[4185.96 --> 4186.48] which is -[4186.48 --> 4187.08] in Egypt. -[4187.68 --> 4188.08] He's -[4188.08 --> 4188.58] described -[4188.58 --> 4188.92] as we -[4188.92 --> 4189.22] said -[4189.22 --> 4190.14] as one -[4190.14 --> 4190.42] who is -[4190.42 --> 4190.96] thoroughly -[4190.96 --> 4191.52] acquainted -[4191.52 --> 4192.32] with the -[4192.32 --> 4192.64] scriptures -[4192.64 --> 4193.44] and instructed -[4193.44 --> 4193.92] in the -[4193.92 --> 4194.20] way of -[4194.20 --> 4194.54] the Lord. -[4196.10 --> 4196.90] But we -[4196.90 --> 4197.30] learn that -[4197.30 --> 4197.80] his knowledge -[4197.80 --> 4198.44] is limited -[4198.44 --> 4199.46] to the -[4199.46 --> 4200.12] baptism of -[4200.12 --> 4200.52] John -[4200.52 --> 4201.38] which is -[4201.38 --> 4201.78] the baptism -[4201.78 --> 4202.50] of repentance -[4202.50 --> 4204.18] instead of -[4204.18 --> 4204.66] the baptism -[4204.66 --> 4205.26] of Jesus -[4205.26 --> 4205.62] or the -[4205.62 --> 4206.26] baptism of -[4206.26 --> 4206.60] the early -[4206.60 --> 4207.08] church -[4207.08 --> 4207.42] which is -[4207.42 --> 4208.40] one wherein -[4208.40 --> 4208.92] we talk -[4208.92 --> 4209.36] about the -[4209.36 --> 4210.22] Holy Spirit -[4210.22 --> 4210.60] coming, -[4210.68 --> 4211.02] a baptism -[4211.02 --> 4211.76] of faith. -[4213.42 --> 4213.72] And with -[4213.72 --> 4214.28] the support -[4214.28 --> 4214.90] eventually -[4214.90 --> 4215.90] and encouragement -[4215.90 --> 4216.48] of the -[4216.48 --> 4217.00] Ephesian -[4217.00 --> 4217.54] believers -[4217.54 --> 4218.26] Apollos -[4218.26 --> 4219.42] is sent -[4219.42 --> 4220.24] to Achaia -[4220.24 --> 4220.68] which is -[4220.68 --> 4221.54] the region -[4221.54 --> 4222.18] of Greece -[4222.18 --> 4222.82] where Corinth -[4222.82 --> 4223.40] is and -[4223.40 --> 4223.86] specifically -[4223.86 --> 4224.54] he is in -[4224.54 --> 4224.90] Corinth. -[4225.78 --> 4226.18] And the -[4226.18 --> 4226.70] brothers and -[4226.70 --> 4227.50] sisters in -[4227.50 --> 4228.12] Ephesus -[4228.12 --> 4229.14] write to -[4229.14 --> 4229.74] the church -[4229.74 --> 4230.56] in Corinth -[4230.56 --> 4231.32] to welcome -[4231.32 --> 4232.98] him and -[4232.98 --> 4234.02] to support -[4234.02 --> 4234.32] him. -[4235.06 --> 4235.30] And so -[4235.30 --> 4235.94] he goes -[4235.94 --> 4237.16] to Corinth -[4237.16 --> 4237.68] where he's -[4237.68 --> 4238.26] a great -[4238.26 --> 4238.74] help to -[4238.74 --> 4239.18] those who -[4239.18 --> 4239.52] believe, -[4239.72 --> 4239.98] where he -[4239.98 --> 4240.66] refutes -[4240.66 --> 4241.58] people in -[4241.58 --> 4241.90] public -[4241.90 --> 4242.30] debate -[4242.30 --> 4242.88] and proves -[4242.88 --> 4243.22] from the -[4243.22 --> 4243.54] scriptures -[4243.54 --> 4244.24] that Jesus -[4244.24 --> 4244.94] is the -[4244.94 --> 4245.28] Messiah. -[4246.18 --> 4246.52] If we -[4246.52 --> 4246.98] zoom out -[4246.98 --> 4247.28] from the -[4247.28 --> 4247.56] book of -[4247.56 --> 4247.96] Acts a -[4247.96 --> 4248.48] little bit -[4248.48 --> 4249.70] Apollos -[4249.70 --> 4250.42] becomes so -[4250.42 --> 4251.14] significant -[4251.14 --> 4251.72] in the -[4251.72 --> 4252.20] Corinthian -[4252.20 --> 4252.68] church -[4252.68 --> 4253.46] that when -[4253.46 --> 4254.22] Paul writes -[4254.22 --> 4254.84] his letters -[4254.84 --> 4255.38] to them -[4255.38 --> 4255.84] later, -[4256.56 --> 4256.90] we have -[4256.90 --> 4257.24] this in -[4257.24 --> 4257.96] 1 Corinthians, -[4258.82 --> 4259.82] there are -[4259.82 --> 4260.52] divisions -[4260.52 --> 4261.38] taking place -[4261.38 --> 4261.94] because the -[4261.94 --> 4262.72] believers are -[4262.72 --> 4263.48] saying things -[4263.48 --> 4263.78] like, -[4263.90 --> 4264.12] well I -[4264.12 --> 4264.98] follow Paul, -[4265.18 --> 4265.94] I follow -[4265.94 --> 4266.60] Apollos, -[4266.72 --> 4267.36] another says -[4267.36 --> 4267.94] I follow -[4267.94 --> 4268.48] Cephas, -[4268.60 --> 4268.86] which is -[4268.86 --> 4269.14] Peter, -[4269.40 --> 4269.84] and still -[4269.84 --> 4270.20] others, -[4270.20 --> 4270.72] I follow -[4270.72 --> 4271.02] Christ. -[4271.10 --> 4271.38] So there's -[4271.38 --> 4272.20] these groups -[4272.20 --> 4272.60] that have -[4272.60 --> 4273.62] developed around -[4273.62 --> 4274.36] these people -[4274.36 --> 4275.50] of influence -[4275.50 --> 4276.72] and import. -[4277.68 --> 4278.24] Paul says -[4278.24 --> 4278.68] to them, -[4278.82 --> 4279.84] hey, me -[4279.84 --> 4280.82] and Apollos, -[4281.02 --> 4282.16] we're servants -[4282.16 --> 4283.56] of Christ -[4283.56 --> 4284.94] through whom -[4284.94 --> 4285.54] the Corinthians, -[4286.10 --> 4286.30] you, -[4286.48 --> 4287.20] have come to -[4287.20 --> 4287.54] believe. -[4288.24 --> 4289.14] He emphasizes -[4289.14 --> 4290.26] in fact that -[4290.26 --> 4292.70] Paul has -[4292.70 --> 4293.42] planted the -[4293.42 --> 4293.90] seed and -[4293.90 --> 4295.04] Apollos watered -[4295.04 --> 4295.40] the seed, -[4295.52 --> 4296.24] but it was God -[4296.24 --> 4296.74] who made it -[4296.74 --> 4296.96] grow. -[4296.96 --> 4298.98] now we -[4298.98 --> 4299.42] also know -[4299.42 --> 4300.04] that eventually -[4300.04 --> 4301.18] Apollos left -[4301.18 --> 4302.18] Corinth because -[4302.18 --> 4303.12] Paul mentions -[4303.12 --> 4303.62] that he -[4303.62 --> 4304.78] strongly urged -[4304.78 --> 4305.48] Apollos to -[4305.48 --> 4306.18] go back to -[4306.18 --> 4307.34] Corinth at -[4307.34 --> 4307.76] the end of -[4307.76 --> 4308.20] that letter, -[4308.32 --> 4308.82] but that -[4308.82 --> 4309.30] Apollos would -[4309.30 --> 4309.78] come later, -[4309.78 --> 4311.02] and it also -[4311.02 --> 4311.72] seems likely -[4311.72 --> 4313.22] that Paul -[4313.22 --> 4314.66] sent Apollos -[4314.66 --> 4315.50] with one -[4315.50 --> 4316.84] other to -[4316.84 --> 4317.40] Jerusalem -[4317.40 --> 4318.80] because it -[4318.80 --> 4319.34] seems like -[4319.34 --> 4320.42] Apollos delivers -[4320.42 --> 4321.42] the letter -[4321.42 --> 4322.12] written to -[4322.12 --> 4323.16] Titus on -[4323.16 --> 4323.56] his way -[4323.56 --> 4324.10] while Titus -[4324.10 --> 4324.34] is on -[4324.34 --> 4324.64] the island -[4324.64 --> 4325.04] of Crete. -[4327.36 --> 4327.96] A little -[4327.96 --> 4328.22] bit more -[4328.22 --> 4328.58] history, -[4329.08 --> 4329.40] and I'm -[4329.40 --> 4329.88] building to -[4329.88 --> 4330.16] something, -[4330.26 --> 4330.56] so please -[4330.56 --> 4330.96] bear with -[4330.96 --> 4331.18] me. -[4332.94 --> 4333.46] Tradition -[4333.46 --> 4333.90] will go -[4333.90 --> 4334.30] on to -[4334.30 --> 4335.98] say that -[4335.98 --> 4336.48] Apollos -[4336.48 --> 4337.06] became a -[4337.06 --> 4337.34] bishop, -[4337.74 --> 4338.42] possibly in -[4338.42 --> 4338.78] Corinth, -[4339.00 --> 4339.62] some say -[4339.62 --> 4340.36] in Caesarea -[4340.36 --> 4341.12] or Smyrna. -[4341.94 --> 4343.04] A long-standing -[4343.04 --> 4343.92] tradition in -[4343.92 --> 4344.28] the early -[4344.28 --> 4344.56] church, -[4344.66 --> 4345.04] especially in -[4345.04 --> 4345.38] the eastern -[4345.38 --> 4345.90] part of the -[4345.90 --> 4346.18] church, -[4346.24 --> 4346.62] is that -[4346.62 --> 4347.24] Apollos -[4347.24 --> 4347.78] may have -[4347.78 --> 4348.12] been the -[4348.12 --> 4348.54] author of -[4348.54 --> 4349.18] the letter -[4349.18 --> 4349.52] to the -[4349.52 --> 4349.94] Hebrews, -[4350.38 --> 4350.74] although we're -[4350.74 --> 4351.26] not sure -[4351.26 --> 4351.80] of that. -[4351.80 --> 4353.92] some -[4353.92 --> 4354.56] traditions -[4354.56 --> 4355.18] go on to -[4355.18 --> 4355.54] say that -[4355.54 --> 4356.14] he practiced -[4356.14 --> 4357.24] ministry in -[4357.24 --> 4357.82] Alexandria, -[4358.10 --> 4358.32] in his -[4358.32 --> 4358.60] hometown, -[4358.88 --> 4359.22] and became -[4359.22 --> 4360.08] really influential -[4360.08 --> 4360.90] throughout -[4360.90 --> 4361.84] North Africa. -[4363.28 --> 4364.02] Now the -[4364.02 --> 4364.46] reason I -[4364.46 --> 4365.02] belabor this -[4365.02 --> 4366.52] point is -[4366.52 --> 4366.94] because I -[4366.94 --> 4368.20] think what -[4368.20 --> 4368.58] we are -[4368.58 --> 4369.78] seeing is -[4369.78 --> 4370.34] a very -[4370.34 --> 4371.32] particular -[4371.32 --> 4374.66] example of -[4374.66 --> 4375.62] a healthy -[4375.62 --> 4376.94] functioning -[4376.94 --> 4377.88] church -[4377.88 --> 4378.96] embracing -[4378.96 --> 4380.06] and utilizing -[4380.06 --> 4381.12] spiritual -[4381.12 --> 4381.62] gifts, -[4381.80 --> 4382.40] for the -[4382.40 --> 4382.78] building up -[4382.78 --> 4382.94] of the -[4382.94 --> 4383.24] body. -[4383.84 --> 4384.32] I think -[4384.32 --> 4384.80] this is a -[4384.80 --> 4385.64] picture that -[4385.64 --> 4386.70] shows us -[4386.70 --> 4388.16] one way -[4388.16 --> 4388.94] that that -[4388.94 --> 4390.36] can look. -[4391.64 --> 4392.14] And notice -[4392.14 --> 4392.72] in verse -[4392.72 --> 4393.22] 16, -[4394.02 --> 4394.68] when Priscilla -[4394.68 --> 4395.22] and Aquila -[4395.22 --> 4396.38] heard him, -[4396.80 --> 4397.46] they invited -[4397.46 --> 4398.12] him into -[4398.12 --> 4398.84] their home -[4398.84 --> 4400.06] and explained -[4400.06 --> 4400.78] to him -[4400.78 --> 4401.58] the way -[4401.58 --> 4402.16] of God -[4402.16 --> 4402.64] more -[4402.64 --> 4403.40] adequately. -[4405.44 --> 4405.78] And so -[4405.78 --> 4406.16] out of -[4406.16 --> 4407.60] this story, -[4407.78 --> 4408.34] this descriptive -[4408.34 --> 4408.82] event, -[4408.94 --> 4409.52] I want to -[4409.52 --> 4410.42] draw out -[4410.42 --> 4411.24] some principles -[4411.24 --> 4411.84] for our -[4411.84 --> 4412.54] consideration. -[4412.96 --> 4413.30] But the -[4413.30 --> 4413.76] reason I -[4413.76 --> 4414.30] wanted to -[4414.30 --> 4415.32] outline the -[4415.32 --> 4415.90] history of -[4415.90 --> 4416.14] it and -[4416.14 --> 4416.42] what we -[4416.42 --> 4417.06] see is -[4417.06 --> 4418.62] because this -[4418.62 --> 4419.62] is how -[4419.62 --> 4421.24] God ordinarily -[4421.24 --> 4423.08] functions in -[4423.08 --> 4423.64] and through -[4423.64 --> 4424.32] his church. -[4424.78 --> 4425.76] This is how -[4425.76 --> 4426.84] God grows -[4426.84 --> 4427.56] the body -[4427.56 --> 4428.82] of believers. -[4429.26 --> 4429.96] This is how -[4429.96 --> 4431.14] God has the -[4431.14 --> 4432.02] gospel message -[4432.02 --> 4432.62] go forth -[4432.62 --> 4433.36] into all the -[4433.36 --> 4433.66] world. -[4433.66 --> 4433.68] world. -[4435.06 --> 4435.42] And so -[4435.42 --> 4435.82] when we -[4435.82 --> 4436.78] talk this -[4436.78 --> 4437.40] morning about -[4437.40 --> 4438.78] our lives -[4438.78 --> 4439.60] here at -[4439.60 --> 4440.42] Langley-Emmanuel -[4440.42 --> 4441.94] in Murrayville -[4441.94 --> 4442.90] in Langley -[4442.90 --> 4444.16] in Canada, -[4444.62 --> 4446.20] we're talking -[4446.20 --> 4446.88] about things -[4446.88 --> 4447.40] that God -[4447.40 --> 4448.86] uses to -[4448.86 --> 4450.04] transform and -[4450.04 --> 4450.80] change the -[4450.80 --> 4452.30] entire world. -[4453.82 --> 4454.24] So don't -[4454.24 --> 4454.94] miss that. -[4455.00 --> 4455.64] Even as you -[4455.64 --> 4455.98] think, -[4456.46 --> 4457.04] what can I -[4457.04 --> 4457.40] do? -[4458.40 --> 4459.00] Remember, -[4459.54 --> 4460.20] our God -[4460.20 --> 4461.86] uses you -[4461.86 --> 4462.32] and me -[4462.32 --> 4463.76] to change -[4463.76 --> 4464.92] the world. -[4467.18 --> 4467.84] And so -[4467.84 --> 4468.42] as we look -[4468.42 --> 4468.72] at this -[4468.72 --> 4469.30] story and -[4469.30 --> 4469.74] we look to -[4469.74 --> 4470.38] an example, -[4471.20 --> 4471.98] ask yourselves, -[4472.48 --> 4474.14] what does -[4474.14 --> 4474.42] this mean -[4474.42 --> 4474.80] for me? -[4476.28 --> 4476.90] What do I -[4476.90 --> 4477.76] need to -[4477.76 --> 4479.12] hear God -[4479.12 --> 4479.86] say to -[4479.86 --> 4480.98] me this -[4480.98 --> 4481.24] morning? -[4483.22 --> 4483.78] So -[4483.78 --> 4484.22] Priscilla -[4484.22 --> 4484.84] and Aquila -[4484.84 --> 4485.64] listened, -[4486.34 --> 4487.12] they invited -[4487.12 --> 4487.52] him into -[4487.52 --> 4488.14] their lives, -[4488.44 --> 4488.94] and they -[4488.94 --> 4489.48] taught him, -[4490.04 --> 4490.44] and then -[4490.44 --> 4490.88] they sent -[4490.88 --> 4491.96] him out. -[4492.62 --> 4492.80] And so -[4492.80 --> 4493.04] for the -[4493.04 --> 4493.28] rest of -[4493.28 --> 4493.58] our time, -[4493.62 --> 4493.78] I want -[4493.78 --> 4494.64] to do -[4494.64 --> 4495.42] those five -[4495.42 --> 4496.78] steps with -[4496.78 --> 4496.98] you. -[4498.14 --> 4498.68] First of -[4498.68 --> 4498.78] all, -[4498.82 --> 4499.06] notice, -[4499.18 --> 4499.42] Priscilla -[4499.42 --> 4499.88] and Aquila -[4499.88 --> 4501.58] had space -[4501.58 --> 4502.16] in their -[4502.16 --> 4502.56] lives. -[4504.56 --> 4505.00] They -[4505.00 --> 4505.66] made room -[4505.66 --> 4506.94] to invite -[4506.94 --> 4507.50] in a -[4507.50 --> 4508.02] stranger, -[4509.18 --> 4509.68] a brother -[4509.68 --> 4509.94] in the -[4509.94 --> 4510.20] Lord, -[4510.30 --> 4510.60] yes and -[4510.60 --> 4510.90] amen, -[4511.94 --> 4512.24] but one -[4512.24 --> 4512.52] that they -[4512.52 --> 4512.88] did not -[4512.88 --> 4513.10] know. -[4515.04 --> 4515.78] How many -[4515.78 --> 4516.60] of us -[4516.60 --> 4518.58] have space -[4518.58 --> 4519.02] in our -[4519.02 --> 4519.42] lives? -[4520.88 --> 4521.34] And I'm -[4521.34 --> 4521.62] not even -[4521.62 --> 4521.86] going to -[4521.86 --> 4522.32] say to -[4522.32 --> 4522.80] invite in -[4522.80 --> 4523.22] a stranger -[4523.22 --> 4523.64] to live -[4523.64 --> 4524.02] with you, -[4524.66 --> 4525.52] but just -[4525.52 --> 4526.28] space in -[4526.28 --> 4526.82] your lives -[4526.82 --> 4527.16] so that -[4527.16 --> 4527.60] when someone -[4527.60 --> 4528.04] calls you -[4528.04 --> 4528.32] up and -[4528.32 --> 4528.44] say, -[4528.50 --> 4528.62] hey, -[4528.76 --> 4529.24] can we -[4529.24 --> 4529.76] get together? -[4529.86 --> 4530.08] I need -[4530.08 --> 4530.28] to have -[4530.28 --> 4530.64] a chat, -[4530.84 --> 4531.18] and you -[4531.18 --> 4531.42] say, -[4531.80 --> 4532.26] yeah, -[4532.28 --> 4532.54] I think -[4532.54 --> 4532.74] I have -[4532.74 --> 4533.22] time in -[4533.22 --> 4534.34] December. -[4537.62 --> 4538.30] How many -[4538.30 --> 4538.54] of us -[4538.54 --> 4539.56] make space -[4539.56 --> 4540.00] in our -[4540.00 --> 4540.40] time? -[4542.42 --> 4542.90] Intentionally -[4542.90 --> 4545.18] build gaps -[4545.18 --> 4546.46] and opportunities -[4546.46 --> 4548.38] for God -[4548.38 --> 4548.86] to work? -[4550.46 --> 4550.96] In our -[4550.96 --> 4551.70] culture of -[4551.70 --> 4552.28] busyness, -[4552.40 --> 4552.82] it's so -[4552.82 --> 4553.36] easy to -[4553.36 --> 4553.70] think we -[4553.70 --> 4553.88] have to -[4553.88 --> 4554.20] run from -[4554.20 --> 4554.60] this thing -[4554.60 --> 4554.94] to this -[4554.94 --> 4555.26] thing to -[4555.26 --> 4555.68] this thing, -[4555.98 --> 4556.56] especially -[4556.56 --> 4557.34] as parents -[4557.34 --> 4557.76] of young -[4557.76 --> 4558.28] kids when -[4558.28 --> 4558.56] you want -[4558.56 --> 4558.80] them to -[4558.80 --> 4559.22] do this -[4559.22 --> 4559.60] and that -[4559.60 --> 4559.90] and that, -[4560.06 --> 4560.48] and it's -[4560.48 --> 4560.80] good, -[4560.88 --> 4561.00] right? -[4561.02 --> 4561.20] You want -[4561.20 --> 4561.58] to set -[4561.58 --> 4562.08] them up -[4562.08 --> 4562.98] well in -[4562.98 --> 4563.22] life, -[4563.30 --> 4563.68] so you're -[4563.68 --> 4564.22] going to -[4564.22 --> 4564.66] drive them -[4564.66 --> 4565.02] all over -[4565.02 --> 4565.46] the world -[4565.46 --> 4566.76] because you -[4566.76 --> 4567.16] want what's -[4567.16 --> 4567.60] best for -[4567.60 --> 4567.86] them. -[4569.68 --> 4570.18] And so -[4570.18 --> 4570.50] don't hear -[4570.50 --> 4570.74] what I'm -[4570.74 --> 4571.22] not saying. -[4571.96 --> 4572.38] This isn't -[4572.38 --> 4573.06] about shame, -[4573.32 --> 4573.76] this isn't -[4573.76 --> 4574.34] about guilt, -[4574.76 --> 4575.34] this is -[4575.34 --> 4575.86] simply a -[4575.86 --> 4576.32] question. -[4576.32 --> 4578.66] Is there -[4578.66 --> 4580.30] space in -[4580.30 --> 4581.02] your life -[4581.02 --> 4582.40] for God -[4582.40 --> 4582.76] to do -[4582.76 --> 4583.34] something -[4583.34 --> 4585.56] like this? -[4586.46 --> 4587.24] Is there -[4587.24 --> 4587.88] space in -[4587.88 --> 4588.38] your life -[4588.38 --> 4589.04] for God -[4589.04 --> 4589.50] to bring -[4589.50 --> 4590.22] someone to -[4590.22 --> 4590.68] you and -[4590.68 --> 4591.02] say, -[4592.06 --> 4592.64] minister to -[4592.64 --> 4592.84] them? -[4595.74 --> 4596.56] And how -[4596.56 --> 4596.86] are you -[4596.86 --> 4597.38] building -[4597.38 --> 4598.46] that -[4598.46 --> 4599.82] space? -[4600.88 --> 4601.58] How are -[4601.58 --> 4602.16] you creating -[4602.16 --> 4604.00] that time -[4604.00 --> 4605.46] and reality -[4605.46 --> 4607.12] and if -[4607.12 --> 4607.80] you cannot -[4607.80 --> 4608.52] or if -[4608.52 --> 4609.40] you aren't -[4609.40 --> 4610.28] sure how -[4610.28 --> 4610.84] you ever -[4610.84 --> 4611.38] would, -[4611.84 --> 4612.42] ask the -[4612.42 --> 4612.96] question, -[4614.70 --> 4616.08] what is -[4616.08 --> 4617.00] most -[4617.00 --> 4618.52] important -[4618.52 --> 4620.04] here? -[4620.84 --> 4621.64] What -[4621.64 --> 4622.32] really -[4622.32 --> 4623.54] matters -[4623.54 --> 4624.50] here? -[4627.44 --> 4628.42] And again, -[4628.46 --> 4628.76] I don't know -[4628.76 --> 4629.08] the answer -[4629.08 --> 4629.38] to that -[4629.38 --> 4629.88] question for -[4629.88 --> 4630.04] you. -[4630.80 --> 4631.48] That's your -[4631.48 --> 4631.76] job. -[4631.76 --> 4633.92] I'm going -[4633.92 --> 4634.22] to lead -[4634.22 --> 4634.54] you to -[4634.54 --> 4634.76] it. -[4635.70 --> 4636.28] You need -[4636.28 --> 4636.66] to ask -[4636.66 --> 4636.86] it. -[4637.72 --> 4638.10] You need -[4638.10 --> 4638.52] to wonder. -[4640.50 --> 4641.02] Now notice, -[4641.32 --> 4641.68] they had -[4641.68 --> 4642.50] space for -[4642.50 --> 4644.30] Apollos and -[4644.30 --> 4644.92] then they -[4644.92 --> 4645.68] invited him -[4645.68 --> 4646.88] into their -[4646.88 --> 4647.14] home. -[4647.50 --> 4647.84] They did -[4647.84 --> 4648.98] life together. -[4650.64 --> 4653.70] I have -[4653.70 --> 4655.04] seen the -[4655.04 --> 4655.58] way this -[4655.58 --> 4656.20] can work -[4656.20 --> 4657.38] in people's -[4657.38 --> 4658.02] lives. -[4658.82 --> 4659.38] We have -[4659.38 --> 4659.98] examples of -[4659.98 --> 4665.70] people in -[4665.70 --> 4666.44] our own -[4666.44 --> 4667.46] church family -[4667.46 --> 4668.50] who opened -[4668.50 --> 4669.14] their homes -[4669.14 --> 4670.20] up to -[4670.20 --> 4670.82] strangers, -[4671.74 --> 4672.18] complete and -[4672.18 --> 4672.80] utter strangers, -[4673.46 --> 4673.92] and they -[4673.92 --> 4674.54] lived together -[4674.54 --> 4675.78] for a period -[4675.78 --> 4676.14] of time. -[4676.22 --> 4677.02] They welcomed -[4677.02 --> 4677.40] them and -[4677.40 --> 4677.94] they ministered -[4677.94 --> 4678.32] to them and -[4678.32 --> 4678.74] they taught -[4678.74 --> 4679.02] them. -[4680.82 --> 4681.52] Our youth -[4681.52 --> 4682.26] program here -[4682.26 --> 4683.12] at Emmanuel -[4683.12 --> 4683.82] is set up -[4683.82 --> 4684.60] in exactly -[4684.60 --> 4685.30] this way, -[4685.82 --> 4686.68] of partnering -[4686.68 --> 4688.18] leaders with -[4688.18 --> 4688.98] youth starting -[4688.98 --> 4689.56] in grade 8 -[4689.56 --> 4689.94] who will -[4689.94 --> 4690.60] walk with -[4690.60 --> 4690.98] them for -[4690.98 --> 4691.32] the next -[4691.32 --> 4692.02] five years. -[4694.76 --> 4695.36] Intentionally -[4695.36 --> 4696.38] doing life -[4696.38 --> 4696.98] together, -[4697.16 --> 4697.82] intentionally -[4697.82 --> 4699.20] discipling and -[4699.20 --> 4700.30] raising them -[4700.30 --> 4700.56] up. -[4702.98 --> 4703.34] And so -[4703.34 --> 4703.70] for you -[4703.70 --> 4704.12] youth, -[4704.82 --> 4706.06] are you -[4706.06 --> 4706.48] letting that -[4706.48 --> 4706.76] be a -[4706.76 --> 4707.26] priority? -[4708.80 --> 4709.54] Because I -[4709.54 --> 4709.82] know for -[4709.82 --> 4710.32] the leaders -[4710.32 --> 4710.80] who are -[4710.80 --> 4711.08] here, -[4711.50 --> 4712.06] they are. -[4714.28 --> 4714.96] And for -[4714.96 --> 4715.60] you parents -[4715.60 --> 4716.38] of youth, -[4716.58 --> 4717.02] are you -[4717.02 --> 4717.50] letting that -[4717.50 --> 4717.84] be a -[4717.84 --> 4718.36] priority? -[4719.20 --> 4719.68] Encouraging -[4719.68 --> 4720.18] your kids -[4720.18 --> 4720.48] in that -[4720.48 --> 4720.88] direction -[4720.88 --> 4721.18] and in -[4721.18 --> 4721.32] that -[4721.32 --> 4721.86] relationship. -[4722.98 --> 4723.60] Because this -[4723.60 --> 4723.94] is what it -[4723.94 --> 4724.50] looks like -[4724.50 --> 4724.78] for a -[4724.78 --> 4725.06] healthy, -[4725.22 --> 4725.52] functioning -[4725.52 --> 4727.88] church to -[4727.88 --> 4728.80] utilize the -[4728.80 --> 4729.74] spiritual gifts -[4729.74 --> 4730.54] for the -[4730.54 --> 4730.94] building up -[4730.94 --> 4731.12] of the -[4731.12 --> 4731.44] body. -[4732.28 --> 4732.96] This is -[4732.96 --> 4733.96] what God -[4733.96 --> 4735.04] does. -[4736.64 --> 4737.16] We were -[4737.16 --> 4737.70] just talking -[4737.70 --> 4738.16] about care -[4738.16 --> 4738.84] groups earlier -[4738.84 --> 4739.74] this morning. -[4739.84 --> 4740.10] This is -[4740.10 --> 4740.66] another place -[4740.66 --> 4741.10] where God -[4741.10 --> 4742.18] does this, -[4742.26 --> 4742.50] where he -[4742.50 --> 4744.24] builds lives -[4744.24 --> 4745.18] lived together. -[4745.32 --> 4745.52] We have -[4745.52 --> 4746.00] some care -[4746.00 --> 4746.44] groups here -[4746.44 --> 4746.74] who have -[4746.74 --> 4747.10] been meeting -[4747.10 --> 4747.72] for 25 -[4747.72 --> 4748.98] plus years. -[4749.46 --> 4749.78] And that -[4749.78 --> 4750.42] is amazing -[4750.42 --> 4751.06] and incredible. -[4751.20 --> 4751.40] We have -[4751.40 --> 4751.82] some care -[4751.82 --> 4752.56] groups who -[4752.56 --> 4752.86] are just -[4752.86 --> 4753.10] saying, -[4753.40 --> 4753.62] hey, we -[4753.62 --> 4753.90] want to -[4753.90 --> 4754.40] start this -[4754.40 --> 4754.64] year. -[4755.60 --> 4755.86] We have -[4755.86 --> 4756.30] some leaders -[4756.30 --> 4756.56] who are -[4756.56 --> 4757.00] looking for -[4757.00 --> 4757.98] more people -[4757.98 --> 4758.32] to be -[4758.32 --> 4758.66] involved. -[4758.78 --> 4759.02] And I do -[4759.02 --> 4759.48] have permission -[4759.48 --> 4759.78] to say -[4759.78 --> 4759.96] this. -[4760.10 --> 4760.54] Perry's -[4760.54 --> 4761.06] group is -[4761.06 --> 4761.52] looking for -[4761.52 --> 4762.10] more people -[4762.10 --> 4762.68] to be -[4762.68 --> 4763.04] involved. -[4763.22 --> 4763.52] And so if -[4763.52 --> 4763.92] that seems -[4763.92 --> 4764.36] like something -[4764.36 --> 4764.60] you're -[4764.60 --> 4765.22] interested in, -[4765.50 --> 4766.14] Perry wants -[4766.14 --> 4766.44] you in -[4766.44 --> 4766.88] his group. -[4768.54 --> 4769.08] This is a -[4769.08 --> 4770.40] walking in -[4770.40 --> 4771.60] life together. -[4773.14 --> 4773.98] This past -[4773.98 --> 4775.32] year, I -[4775.32 --> 4775.60] have been -[4775.60 --> 4776.94] part of a -[4776.94 --> 4777.60] group of -[4777.60 --> 4778.12] pastor -[4778.12 --> 4779.12] theologians -[4779.12 --> 4779.58] that gets -[4779.58 --> 4780.40] together four -[4780.40 --> 4781.14] times every -[4781.14 --> 4781.56] year at -[4781.56 --> 4781.94] Trinity -[4781.94 --> 4782.68] Western -[4782.68 --> 4784.06] University to -[4784.06 --> 4784.90] wrestle and -[4784.90 --> 4785.96] to do life -[4785.96 --> 4786.64] together and -[4786.64 --> 4787.52] to think -[4787.52 --> 4788.32] critically and -[4788.32 --> 4789.30] theologically about -[4789.30 --> 4789.82] preaching and -[4789.82 --> 4790.40] about the call -[4790.40 --> 4791.50] of ministry and -[4791.50 --> 4792.08] what that means. -[4792.16 --> 4792.66] And that has -[4792.66 --> 4794.20] done incredible -[4794.20 --> 4795.44] things in my -[4795.44 --> 4796.18] heart and in my -[4796.18 --> 4796.84] life and in my -[4796.84 --> 4797.50] relationship to -[4797.50 --> 4798.54] God as these -[4798.54 --> 4799.66] other pastors -[4799.66 --> 4801.16] encourage and -[4801.16 --> 4802.52] speak truths -[4802.52 --> 4803.52] to me. -[4805.08 --> 4805.94] They're creating -[4805.94 --> 4807.20] space to do -[4807.20 --> 4808.46] life together. -[4809.68 --> 4810.08] I have a -[4810.08 --> 4810.38] group of -[4810.38 --> 4811.62] friends that I -[4811.62 --> 4811.92] went to -[4811.92 --> 4812.56] seminary with -[4812.56 --> 4813.70] almost 15 -[4813.70 --> 4814.40] years ago, -[4814.90 --> 4816.08] more than 15 -[4816.08 --> 4816.56] years ago, -[4816.62 --> 4817.20] oh my goodness. -[4819.60 --> 4820.38] And we -[4820.38 --> 4822.10] still are so -[4822.10 --> 4823.06] incredibly close. -[4823.16 --> 4823.68] In fact, two -[4823.68 --> 4824.28] of their families -[4824.28 --> 4825.62] visited us last -[4825.62 --> 4826.04] week and were -[4826.04 --> 4826.54] here in worship -[4826.54 --> 4827.74] with us last -[4827.74 --> 4828.02] week. -[4828.72 --> 4829.36] These people -[4829.36 --> 4830.64] have lived life -[4830.64 --> 4831.02] with me and -[4831.02 --> 4831.56] have spoken -[4831.56 --> 4832.56] life to me -[4832.56 --> 4832.90] and have -[4832.90 --> 4834.18] spoken challenging -[4834.18 --> 4835.80] words to me. -[4837.50 --> 4838.20] Because when -[4838.20 --> 4838.80] you do life -[4838.80 --> 4839.56] together, here's -[4839.56 --> 4840.12] another principle -[4840.12 --> 4841.70] for you, we -[4841.70 --> 4843.08] cannot be afraid -[4843.08 --> 4844.32] of disagreement. -[4845.48 --> 4846.44] We cannot be -[4846.44 --> 4847.44] afraid of saying -[4847.44 --> 4849.74] hard things to -[4849.74 --> 4850.18] each other. -[4851.66 --> 4851.98] And in fact, -[4852.06 --> 4852.36] the scriptures -[4852.36 --> 4853.08] call us to -[4853.08 --> 4854.16] always be prepared -[4854.16 --> 4854.94] in season and -[4854.94 --> 4855.72] out of season to -[4855.72 --> 4856.78] give the reason -[4856.78 --> 4857.36] for the hope -[4857.36 --> 4857.94] that you have -[4857.94 --> 4859.14] in Jesus Christ. -[4859.24 --> 4860.02] We always have -[4860.02 --> 4861.06] to be ready to -[4861.06 --> 4861.42] do that. -[4861.50 --> 4862.06] But scripture -[4862.06 --> 4863.62] also says to -[4863.62 --> 4864.04] do that with -[4864.04 --> 4865.60] gentleness and -[4865.60 --> 4866.14] respect. -[4868.36 --> 4869.08] And so we -[4869.08 --> 4870.04] need to be able -[4870.04 --> 4871.02] to disagree with -[4871.02 --> 4871.44] each other. -[4871.52 --> 4872.04] We need to be -[4872.04 --> 4872.52] able to ask -[4872.52 --> 4873.46] each other hard -[4873.46 --> 4873.90] questions. -[4874.02 --> 4874.48] We need to be -[4874.48 --> 4875.52] able to rebuke -[4875.52 --> 4876.14] and hold each -[4876.14 --> 4876.80] other accountable, -[4877.32 --> 4878.28] but with -[4878.28 --> 4879.70] gentleness and -[4879.70 --> 4880.20] respect. -[4881.20 --> 4881.78] Because this is -[4881.78 --> 4882.32] how God grows -[4882.32 --> 4882.80] the church. -[4883.54 --> 4884.22] This is how God -[4884.22 --> 4884.96] grows you and -[4884.96 --> 4885.90] me as disciples -[4885.90 --> 4887.28] in his name, -[4887.36 --> 4888.40] as we are more -[4888.40 --> 4889.34] and more transformed -[4889.34 --> 4890.44] into the image -[4890.44 --> 4891.20] of Jesus Christ. -[4891.32 --> 4892.08] He does that -[4892.08 --> 4893.38] through you -[4893.38 --> 4894.26] to me and -[4894.26 --> 4895.04] me to you -[4895.04 --> 4895.68] and you to -[4895.68 --> 4896.34] her and her -[4896.34 --> 4897.08] to you and -[4897.08 --> 4897.66] so on and -[4897.66 --> 4898.50] so forth in -[4898.50 --> 4900.06] these multiplicities -[4900.06 --> 4901.02] of relationships. -[4902.28 --> 4903.20] This is how -[4903.20 --> 4904.94] God works. -[4906.82 --> 4907.64] Now notice, -[4907.80 --> 4908.48] they listened -[4908.48 --> 4909.66] to him. -[4909.78 --> 4910.82] They heard -[4910.82 --> 4911.40] him. -[4913.40 --> 4914.50] This may be a -[4914.50 --> 4915.18] stretch, but -[4915.18 --> 4915.76] remember this is a -[4915.76 --> 4916.48] descriptive event, -[4916.54 --> 4916.94] so we're pulling -[4916.94 --> 4917.54] principles out, -[4917.60 --> 4917.94] so we're allowed -[4917.94 --> 4918.42] to stretch a -[4918.42 --> 4918.74] little bit. -[4919.30 --> 4920.04] Part of what -[4920.04 --> 4920.96] this looks like -[4920.96 --> 4922.26] is listening -[4922.26 --> 4923.50] genuinely, -[4923.88 --> 4924.58] authentically, -[4924.86 --> 4926.10] meaningfully to -[4926.10 --> 4926.78] people who are -[4926.78 --> 4927.32] different than -[4927.32 --> 4928.26] you, to people -[4928.26 --> 4929.16] who are experiencing -[4929.16 --> 4930.06] different things -[4930.06 --> 4930.64] than you, to -[4930.64 --> 4931.12] people who have -[4931.12 --> 4932.24] entirely different -[4932.24 --> 4933.10] walks of life -[4933.10 --> 4935.88] than you, and -[4935.88 --> 4936.74] listening and -[4936.74 --> 4938.16] wondering how. -[4938.72 --> 4940.28] How is God -[4940.28 --> 4941.80] using them, or -[4941.80 --> 4942.58] how is God -[4942.58 --> 4943.42] using me to -[4943.42 --> 4944.00] reach them? -[4944.16 --> 4944.56] How? -[4944.56 --> 4946.64] How are we -[4946.64 --> 4947.16] going to see -[4947.16 --> 4949.32] God in this -[4949.32 --> 4950.08] together? -[4952.18 --> 4953.72] Sometimes people -[4953.72 --> 4955.06] say to me, I -[4955.06 --> 4955.70] just don't know -[4955.70 --> 4956.16] what I would -[4956.16 --> 4956.58] say. -[4957.92 --> 4958.74] My first -[4958.74 --> 4959.54] response is, -[4959.92 --> 4960.38] well then don't -[4960.38 --> 4960.96] say anything. -[4961.88 --> 4962.64] Just listen. -[4964.10 --> 4965.18] Just listen -[4965.18 --> 4966.84] and see what -[4966.84 --> 4968.10] God will do. -[4969.14 --> 4970.10] Now, listening -[4970.10 --> 4970.66] leads to -[4970.66 --> 4971.10] something, -[4971.10 --> 4972.80] right? -[4973.50 --> 4974.12] And so, -[4974.96 --> 4975.40] Priscilla and -[4975.40 --> 4976.20] Aquila listened -[4976.20 --> 4977.04] and then they -[4977.04 --> 4978.54] taught him. -[4979.68 --> 4980.40] They searched -[4980.40 --> 4981.02] the scriptures, -[4981.62 --> 4982.34] they learned -[4982.34 --> 4983.24] and lived in -[4983.24 --> 4984.36] its truth as -[4984.36 --> 4985.04] the path of -[4985.04 --> 4985.76] discipleship. -[4986.56 --> 4987.24] And over and -[4987.24 --> 4987.78] over and over -[4987.78 --> 4988.34] again, this -[4988.34 --> 4988.96] pattern is -[4988.96 --> 4989.66] affirmed for -[4989.66 --> 4990.68] us in these -[4990.68 --> 4991.46] stories of the -[4991.46 --> 4991.94] New Testament -[4991.94 --> 4992.92] about listening -[4992.92 --> 4993.62] to the word -[4993.62 --> 4994.24] and searching -[4994.24 --> 4995.14] the word to -[4995.14 --> 4995.62] see if it's -[4995.62 --> 4995.80] true. -[4995.88 --> 4996.30] There's a -[4996.30 --> 4997.04] church in -[4997.04 --> 4998.34] Berea that is -[4998.34 --> 4998.98] praised for -[4998.98 --> 4999.22] this. -[4999.36 --> 4999.90] The Berean -[4999.90 --> 5000.68] brothers and -[5000.68 --> 5000.94] sisters, -[5001.10 --> 5001.66] searched the -[5001.66 --> 5002.62] scriptures daily -[5002.62 --> 5003.94] to test what -[5003.94 --> 5004.38] Paul was -[5004.38 --> 5004.70] saying. -[5006.10 --> 5006.68] And they -[5006.68 --> 5007.38] grew and -[5007.38 --> 5008.20] they're praised -[5008.20 --> 5009.04] for that. -[5010.26 --> 5011.56] That's how -[5011.56 --> 5012.78] we do this -[5012.78 --> 5013.40] as well. -[5013.62 --> 5014.24] Search the -[5014.24 --> 5015.66] scriptures daily. -[5016.98 --> 5018.14] Teach one -[5018.14 --> 5018.46] another. -[5019.10 --> 5019.66] And here's -[5019.66 --> 5020.10] what I'm -[5020.10 --> 5020.60] saying in -[5020.60 --> 5020.98] this, right? -[5021.04 --> 5021.18] Your -[5021.18 --> 5022.02] relationships, -[5022.26 --> 5023.58] especially as -[5023.58 --> 5024.62] relationships of -[5024.62 --> 5026.08] discipleship or -[5026.08 --> 5027.82] mentoring, need -[5027.82 --> 5028.46] to be -[5028.46 --> 5029.34] intentional -[5029.34 --> 5030.72] relationships. -[5030.72 --> 5032.78] right? -[5032.82 --> 5033.22] It's not -[5033.22 --> 5034.18] enough just -[5034.18 --> 5035.12] to go to -[5035.12 --> 5035.94] the hockey -[5035.94 --> 5036.92] game with -[5036.92 --> 5038.28] someone, although -[5038.28 --> 5039.28] that's good, and -[5039.28 --> 5039.68] do that. -[5040.10 --> 5040.98] It's not enough -[5040.98 --> 5041.58] just to go to -[5041.58 --> 5042.76] Starbucks with -[5042.76 --> 5043.36] someone, although -[5043.36 --> 5044.52] that's good, and -[5044.52 --> 5045.04] do that. -[5047.24 --> 5049.00] But ask the -[5049.00 --> 5050.68] hard questions. -[5051.42 --> 5052.18] Open up the -[5052.18 --> 5053.36] scriptures with -[5053.36 --> 5053.86] them and say, -[5053.86 --> 5055.20] what is God -[5055.20 --> 5056.62] teaching us in -[5056.62 --> 5058.08] this place, in -[5058.08 --> 5059.48] this moment -[5059.48 --> 5060.64] together? -[5062.48 --> 5063.90] This, too, has -[5063.90 --> 5064.38] been the -[5064.38 --> 5065.50] pattern of -[5065.50 --> 5066.00] scripture. -[5066.20 --> 5066.60] And in this -[5066.60 --> 5067.06] series, we've -[5067.06 --> 5067.58] been looking at -[5067.58 --> 5068.20] stories from the -[5068.20 --> 5068.94] book of Acts, as -[5068.94 --> 5070.14] well as stories -[5070.14 --> 5071.46] from the early -[5071.46 --> 5072.26] church, from the -[5072.26 --> 5072.84] first few -[5072.84 --> 5073.32] centuries. -[5074.28 --> 5075.58] And there's a -[5075.58 --> 5076.34] quote that I want -[5076.34 --> 5076.96] to share with you -[5076.96 --> 5078.02] from Clement of -[5078.02 --> 5080.14] Alexandria, same -[5080.14 --> 5080.60] place that -[5080.60 --> 5081.82] Apollos was -[5081.82 --> 5082.12] from. -[5083.02 --> 5083.54] And so -[5083.54 --> 5085.22] perhaps knew -[5085.22 --> 5086.00] Apollos or a -[5086.00 --> 5086.68] student of -[5086.68 --> 5087.42] Apollos. -[5087.62 --> 5088.18] This is a -[5088.18 --> 5089.02] longer quote, so -[5089.02 --> 5089.78] bear with me. -[5090.26 --> 5090.88] And some of the -[5090.88 --> 5091.40] language is a -[5091.40 --> 5091.88] little bit tough, -[5091.96 --> 5092.94] but we'll make -[5092.94 --> 5093.18] through. -[5095.48 --> 5096.32] Clement writes, -[5097.32 --> 5098.12] but those who -[5098.12 --> 5098.92] are ready to -[5098.92 --> 5099.92] toil in the -[5099.92 --> 5100.82] most excellent -[5100.82 --> 5102.84] pursuits, hear -[5102.84 --> 5104.54] that, toil in the -[5104.54 --> 5105.14] most excellent -[5105.14 --> 5105.98] pursuits, work -[5105.98 --> 5107.88] hard at what is -[5107.88 --> 5108.78] worth working -[5108.78 --> 5110.50] hard at, will -[5110.50 --> 5111.72] not desist from -[5111.72 --> 5112.86] the search after -[5112.86 --> 5114.36] truth, till they -[5114.36 --> 5115.16] get the -[5115.16 --> 5116.26] demonstration from -[5116.26 --> 5116.86] the scriptures -[5116.86 --> 5117.58] themselves. -[5118.64 --> 5119.90] As then, in -[5119.90 --> 5120.66] war, the -[5120.66 --> 5121.60] soldier must not -[5121.60 --> 5122.40] leave the post -[5122.40 --> 5122.82] which the -[5122.82 --> 5123.38] commander has -[5123.38 --> 5124.48] assigned him, so -[5124.48 --> 5125.52] neither must we -[5125.52 --> 5126.54] desert the post -[5126.54 --> 5127.78] assigned by the -[5127.78 --> 5128.92] word, whom we -[5128.92 --> 5129.90] have received as -[5129.90 --> 5130.70] the guide of -[5130.70 --> 5131.78] knowledge and -[5131.78 --> 5132.14] life. -[5133.72 --> 5134.78] But the most -[5134.78 --> 5135.68] have not even -[5135.68 --> 5136.34] inquired. -[5137.00 --> 5137.54] And if there's -[5137.54 --> 5138.02] one that we -[5138.02 --> 5138.78] ought to follow, -[5139.10 --> 5139.80] and who this -[5139.80 --> 5140.92] is, and how he -[5140.92 --> 5141.46] is to be -[5141.46 --> 5142.54] followed, for as -[5142.54 --> 5144.22] is the word, so -[5144.22 --> 5146.02] such also must -[5146.02 --> 5146.84] the believer's -[5146.84 --> 5148.88] life be, so -[5148.88 --> 5149.76] as to be able -[5149.76 --> 5151.28] to follow God, -[5151.36 --> 5152.16] who brings all -[5152.16 --> 5153.12] things to end -[5153.12 --> 5153.76] from the -[5153.76 --> 5155.26] beginning by the -[5155.26 --> 5156.38] right course. -[5157.76 --> 5158.90] The idea here -[5158.90 --> 5162.24] is that as -[5162.24 --> 5163.78] Jesus has -[5163.78 --> 5165.36] shown, the -[5165.36 --> 5166.46] living word has -[5166.46 --> 5168.24] shown, so we -[5168.24 --> 5169.50] must follow. -[5170.56 --> 5171.16] This is the -[5171.16 --> 5171.66] same thing that -[5171.66 --> 5172.44] Jesus says when -[5172.44 --> 5173.44] he says to his -[5173.44 --> 5174.40] disciples to take -[5174.40 --> 5175.38] up your cross and -[5175.38 --> 5176.44] to follow after -[5176.44 --> 5176.68] him. -[5176.74 --> 5177.28] This is the same -[5177.28 --> 5178.20] thing that Jesus -[5178.20 --> 5178.94] says to his -[5178.94 --> 5179.74] disciples when he -[5179.74 --> 5181.16] says, come after -[5181.16 --> 5183.56] me, and as the -[5183.56 --> 5184.32] Father has sent -[5184.32 --> 5185.44] me, so I am -[5185.44 --> 5186.44] sending you. -[5186.52 --> 5187.14] This is the same -[5187.14 --> 5188.24] thing that the -[5188.24 --> 5189.14] scriptures command -[5189.14 --> 5190.62] us as we wrestle -[5190.62 --> 5191.74] day in and day -[5191.74 --> 5192.60] out with the -[5192.60 --> 5193.48] truth of God's -[5193.48 --> 5194.38] word and applying -[5194.38 --> 5196.34] it to our lives. -[5196.44 --> 5197.54] We do this -[5197.54 --> 5199.18] because Jesus has -[5199.18 --> 5200.74] shown us the way -[5200.74 --> 5202.04] and because Jesus -[5202.04 --> 5203.32] has called us -[5203.32 --> 5204.24] into this way, -[5204.36 --> 5205.42] but even more -[5205.42 --> 5206.00] than that, -[5206.82 --> 5207.98] even more than -[5207.98 --> 5208.84] because he has -[5208.84 --> 5209.54] shown us and -[5209.54 --> 5210.10] because he has -[5210.10 --> 5211.18] called us, even -[5211.18 --> 5213.16] more because he -[5213.16 --> 5215.02] has done it. -[5216.48 --> 5217.24] He has -[5217.24 --> 5219.16] accomplished it -[5219.16 --> 5220.82] for us in our -[5220.82 --> 5221.16] place. -[5221.24 --> 5222.22] He has lived the -[5222.22 --> 5223.26] life we should have -[5223.26 --> 5224.00] lived, and he has -[5224.00 --> 5225.16] died the death that -[5225.16 --> 5226.18] we deserve, and this -[5226.18 --> 5227.50] same Jesus now -[5227.50 --> 5229.64] calls you out in -[5229.64 --> 5231.00] relationship, in -[5231.00 --> 5231.96] discipleship, and -[5231.96 --> 5234.14] says, follow me. -[5235.10 --> 5236.10] Follow me. -[5237.10 --> 5238.18] And for a church to -[5238.18 --> 5239.90] follow Jesus, this is -[5239.90 --> 5240.94] what it looks like, -[5241.80 --> 5243.46] right, to pursue and -[5243.46 --> 5245.32] to utilize and to -[5245.32 --> 5246.80] gather up these -[5246.80 --> 5247.98] gifts that he has -[5247.98 --> 5253.92] given and grow his -[5253.92 --> 5255.26] body. -[5257.68 --> 5258.64] The fifth thing -[5258.64 --> 5259.92] here is that they -[5259.92 --> 5261.96] sent him out. -[5262.36 --> 5263.48] Now again, this is -[5263.48 --> 5264.36] descriptive, not -[5264.36 --> 5265.12] prescriptive. -[5265.20 --> 5265.86] I'm not saying that -[5265.86 --> 5266.80] you all need to go -[5266.80 --> 5268.26] to Corinth after -[5268.26 --> 5269.16] church on Sunday -[5269.16 --> 5270.18] and be a missionary -[5270.18 --> 5271.50] there, or Hawaii, -[5271.70 --> 5272.70] or wherever else you -[5272.70 --> 5273.46] think it might be good -[5273.46 --> 5274.38] to go as a -[5274.38 --> 5274.66] missionary. -[5277.10 --> 5279.26] The idea is we -[5279.26 --> 5280.12] are encouraged in -[5280.12 --> 5281.30] the word together, -[5281.52 --> 5282.44] we are grown in -[5282.44 --> 5283.00] the word in -[5283.00 --> 5283.88] relationship to -[5283.88 --> 5284.80] one another, and -[5284.80 --> 5285.78] to Jesus through -[5285.78 --> 5286.90] that, and we are -[5286.90 --> 5288.56] sent out with this -[5288.56 --> 5289.98] same mission. -[5290.10 --> 5290.60] A healthy, -[5290.82 --> 5291.56] functioning church -[5291.56 --> 5292.46] embraces and -[5292.46 --> 5293.62] utilizes the -[5293.62 --> 5294.98] spiritual gifts of -[5294.98 --> 5297.04] all its members for -[5297.04 --> 5298.56] the building up of -[5298.56 --> 5299.22] the body. -[5300.36 --> 5301.24] And if you're a -[5301.24 --> 5302.04] guest with us this -[5302.04 --> 5304.42] morning, I want to -[5304.42 --> 5305.58] say we here at -[5305.58 --> 5306.96] Emanuel are really -[5306.96 --> 5307.76] good at this. -[5310.32 --> 5311.96] We have, in our -[5311.96 --> 5314.08] church, we have -[5314.08 --> 5315.42] over, and we did -[5315.42 --> 5316.06] the numbers on -[5316.06 --> 5316.46] this at the -[5316.46 --> 5317.12] beginning of last -[5317.12 --> 5318.16] year, we have -[5318.16 --> 5319.64] over 330 -[5319.64 --> 5321.40] volunteer positions -[5321.40 --> 5321.80] available. -[5321.92 --> 5322.36] That is, we have -[5322.36 --> 5324.24] over 330 places for -[5324.24 --> 5326.18] people to serve in -[5326.18 --> 5327.14] our church. -[5328.16 --> 5328.88] That's not -[5328.88 --> 5329.82] including Night -[5329.82 --> 5330.64] Shift or Mission -[5330.64 --> 5331.60] Thrift Store or the -[5331.60 --> 5332.42] Langley Food Bank. -[5333.04 --> 5334.10] That's not including -[5334.10 --> 5335.28] agencies outside of -[5335.28 --> 5335.52] our church. -[5335.56 --> 5336.00] That's just -[5336.00 --> 5336.56] internally. -[5336.56 --> 5339.68] And for those 330 -[5339.68 --> 5343.80] positions, we have -[5343.80 --> 5348.50] approximately 160 to -[5348.50 --> 5350.16] 180, depending on -[5350.16 --> 5351.98] the season, volunteers, -[5352.22 --> 5353.68] individual volunteers -[5353.68 --> 5355.90] serving in those -[5355.90 --> 5356.36] positions. -[5356.80 --> 5357.80] And that doesn't -[5357.80 --> 5359.08] include the youth -[5359.08 --> 5359.66] helpers. -[5360.64 --> 5361.64] That doesn't include -[5361.64 --> 5363.42] the kids who work in -[5363.42 --> 5363.92] the nursery. -[5363.92 --> 5366.96] right, this is 18 -[5366.96 --> 5367.74] and up. -[5369.52 --> 5370.26] So that means -[5370.26 --> 5372.46] somewhere around 60% -[5372.46 --> 5374.84] of our people are -[5374.84 --> 5375.34] volunteering. -[5376.72 --> 5378.06] Now, it also means -[5378.06 --> 5380.12] that our average -[5380.12 --> 5382.36] volunteer does 2.29 -[5382.36 --> 5383.50] volunteer positions. -[5384.48 --> 5385.74] So they do the work -[5385.74 --> 5386.52] of almost two and a -[5386.52 --> 5386.98] half people. -[5387.88 --> 5389.18] But that's also, I -[5389.18 --> 5389.92] think, something to -[5389.92 --> 5390.82] celebrate because our -[5390.82 --> 5391.70] volunteers are working -[5391.70 --> 5392.50] hard. -[5392.50 --> 5396.14] We get this here. -[5396.38 --> 5397.20] This is part of the -[5397.20 --> 5399.30] DNA of Emmanuel, and -[5399.30 --> 5400.10] I think that is -[5400.10 --> 5401.68] something to celebrate. -[5402.98 --> 5405.46] But also, I think it -[5405.46 --> 5407.22] is one of the ways that -[5407.22 --> 5409.12] God is blessing this -[5409.12 --> 5410.24] church and one of the -[5410.24 --> 5411.90] means by which we are -[5411.90 --> 5413.84] seeing growth and -[5413.84 --> 5415.62] continued growth here. -[5417.24 --> 5419.86] Gordon Smith writes in -[5419.86 --> 5421.16] his book, Institutional -[5421.16 --> 5422.32] Intelligence, he says, -[5422.50 --> 5423.68] the church only -[5423.68 --> 5424.96] flourishes if the -[5424.96 --> 5425.64] members of the -[5425.64 --> 5426.48] congregation are -[5426.48 --> 5427.90] encouraged, empowered, -[5428.12 --> 5429.30] and equipped to be -[5429.30 --> 5430.74] what they are called -[5430.74 --> 5431.54] to be. -[5435.14 --> 5436.24] And this isn't a -[5436.24 --> 5437.92] boast in me or in the -[5437.92 --> 5438.44] other leaders. -[5438.52 --> 5439.58] This is a boast in you. -[5440.54 --> 5442.22] I see God doing that -[5442.22 --> 5442.96] here. -[5444.24 --> 5445.34] And it makes me -[5445.34 --> 5447.26] wonder, what more -[5447.26 --> 5448.06] could God do? -[5448.06 --> 5452.02] What more could he do -[5452.02 --> 5453.76] as we ask ourselves -[5453.76 --> 5455.20] the hard questions of -[5455.20 --> 5456.12] how do I make space? -[5457.04 --> 5458.24] As we ask ourselves, -[5458.38 --> 5459.14] what do I need to -[5459.14 --> 5459.44] learn? -[5460.16 --> 5461.12] As we ask ourselves, -[5461.20 --> 5461.76] who do I need to -[5461.76 --> 5462.22] talk to? -[5462.68 --> 5463.66] As we ask ourselves, -[5463.74 --> 5464.36] who do I need to -[5464.36 --> 5465.46] invite into my life? -[5465.62 --> 5466.46] As we ask ourselves, -[5466.58 --> 5469.06] what Bible study or -[5469.06 --> 5469.82] care group do I need -[5469.82 --> 5471.14] to be a part of? -[5471.14 --> 5474.44] This is how God -[5474.44 --> 5475.46] works. -[5477.10 --> 5478.04] And I hope you've -[5478.04 --> 5480.50] seen it, because God -[5480.50 --> 5481.66] is at work here. -[5483.32 --> 5486.00] And I, for one, want to -[5486.00 --> 5488.48] see more of that work -[5488.48 --> 5489.78] in our midst. -[5490.46 --> 5491.54] Let's pray for that -[5491.54 --> 5491.90] together. -[5491.90 --> 5500.08] Lord, our God, you are -[5500.08 --> 5501.80] at work among us, and -[5501.80 --> 5503.06] so be at work among -[5503.06 --> 5503.40] us. -[5504.56 --> 5506.00] You are doing amazing -[5506.00 --> 5507.38] things in our midst, and -[5507.38 --> 5509.82] so cause us to see -[5509.82 --> 5511.82] that and to trust in -[5511.82 --> 5512.84] your provision. -[5513.08 --> 5515.22] Cause us to pursue the -[5515.22 --> 5516.46] work of your Spirit in -[5516.46 --> 5517.88] our midst, even as you -[5517.88 --> 5519.58] send us out from this -[5519.58 --> 5520.62] place today. -[5521.90 --> 5524.18] God, we go asking -[5524.18 --> 5527.58] questions of discipleship, -[5527.84 --> 5528.38] of space. -[5529.00 --> 5530.40] We go asking questions -[5530.40 --> 5531.84] of relationships and -[5531.84 --> 5532.68] intentionality. -[5533.16 --> 5534.68] We go, Lord God, asking -[5534.68 --> 5535.38] questions. -[5539.04 --> 5542.64] And so we go, Lord, I -[5542.64 --> 5545.44] pray by your Spirit, with -[5545.44 --> 5547.68] enough humility to hear -[5547.68 --> 5549.36] the answer from you. -[5551.90 --> 5553.92] open the eyes of our -[5553.92 --> 5556.68] heart, open our ears of -[5556.68 --> 5559.74] faith, that as we ask, -[5559.86 --> 5561.04] as we search, as we -[5561.04 --> 5563.34] wonder, as we go, we -[5563.34 --> 5565.30] might hear from you. -[5566.30 --> 5567.86] In Jesus' name we pray. -[5568.68 --> 5569.12] Amen. -[5569.12 --> 5576.22] Would you rise with us? -[5576.22 --> 5606.20] Thank you. -[5606.22 --> 5621.22] Nothing can compare your un-living hope, your presence hope. -[5621.22 --> 5638.22] I've tasted and seen of the sweetest of love, when my heart becomes free, when my shame is un-done. -[5638.22 --> 5646.22] Your presence, Lord. -[5646.22 --> 5655.22] Holy Spirit, you are welcome here. -[5655.22 --> 5662.40] Come flood this place and fill the atmosphere. -[5663.12 --> 5668.22] Your glory, Lord, is what our hearts long for. -[5669.22 --> 5675.68] To be overcome by your presence, Lord. -[5675.68 --> 5695.68] There's nothing but more than to ever come close. -[5695.68 --> 5710.68] No thing can compare your un-living hope, your presence hope. -[5710.68 --> 5727.68] I've tasted and seen of the sweetest of love, when my heart becomes free, when my shame is un-done. -[5727.68 --> 5745.68] I've tasted and seen of the sweetest of love, when my heart becomes free. -[5745.68 --> 5751.68] Come flood this place and fill the atmosphere. -[5752.68 --> 5758.90] Your glory, Lord, is what our hearts long for. -[5758.90 --> 5765.90] To be overwhelmed by your presence, Lord. -[5765.90 --> 5773.90] Your presence, Lord. -[5773.90 --> 5790.90] Let us experience the glory of your goodness. -[5790.90 --> 5797.90] Let us become more aware of your presence. -[5797.90 --> 5803.90] Let us experience the glory of your goodness. -[5803.90 --> 5809.90] Let us become more aware of your presence. -[5809.90 --> 5816.90] Let us experience the glory of your goodness. -[5816.90 --> 5833.90] Let us experience the glory of your goodness. -[5833.90 --> 5841.90] Holy Spirit, you are welcome here. -[5841.90 --> 5847.90] Come flood this place and fill the atmosphere. -[5847.90 --> 5853.90] Your glory, Lord, is what our hearts long for. -[5854.90 --> 5865.90] To be overcome by your presence, Lord. -[5865.90 --> 5884.90] Holy Spirit, you are welcome here. -[5884.90 --> 5888.90] As you go this week, go with the blessing of our good God. -[5888.90 --> 5893.90] Before you go, if you would like to meet with someone for prayer, we have opportunity for that. -[5893.90 --> 5898.40] for that. There'll be someone up at the front here with a yellow name tag on. They would love to meet -[5898.40 --> 5904.16] you and pray with you about whatever it is that you are celebrating, are lamenting, are crying out -[5904.16 --> 5910.28] to God, are asking for from him. Additionally, go with an invitation to hang out for a time of -[5910.28 --> 5916.44] gathering, refreshment, fellowship after our worship together. Receive the blessing of God. -[5916.44 --> 5926.76] God, go before you to lead you. God, go behind you to protect you. God, go beneath you to support you. -[5927.36 --> 5934.08] And God, go beside you to befriend you. Do not be afraid. Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5934.18 --> 5942.06] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Amen. -[5946.44 --> 5968.34] You're the Lion of Judah, the Lamb who was slain. You ascended to heaven and nevermore will reign. -[5968.34 --> 5976.02] At the end of the age when the earth you reclaim, they will gather the nations before you. -[5976.02 --> 5987.28] And the eyes of all men will be fixed on the Lamb who was crucified. With wisdom and mercy and justice -[5987.28 --> 6002.02] you'll reign at your Father's side. And the angels will cry, Hail the Lamb who was slain for the world's -[6002.02 --> 6020.02] ruling crown. And the earth will be fixed on the earth. You shall reign as the King of all kings and the Lord of all souls. -[6020.02 --> 6035.00] There's a shield in our hand and a sword at our side. There's a fire in our spirit that cannot be denied. -[6035.28 --> 6042.02] As the Father has told us, for these you have died. For the nations that gather before you. -[6042.02 --> 6058.02] And the ears of all men will be fixed on the Lamb who was crucified. Who descended to hell yet was raised up to reign at His Father's side. -[6058.02 --> 6065.02] And the angels will cry, Hail the Lamb who was slain for the world's ruling power. And the earth will reply, Hail the Lamb. -[6065.02 --> 6072.02] Who will slain for the Lamb who was slain for the world's ruling power. And the earth will reply, Hail the Lamb who was slain for the world's ruling power. -[6072.02 --> 6102.00] And the earth will reply, Hail the Lamb who was slain for the world's ruling power. And the earth will reply, Hail the Lamb who was slain for the world's ruling power. -[6102.00 --> 6109.00] Hail the Lamb who was slain for the world's ruling power. And the Lord of all souls. -[6109.00 --> 6111.00] Hail the Lamb. -[6111.00 --> 6116.06] Hail the Lamb. -[6116.06 --> 6118.44] Hail the Lamb. -[6118.44 --> 6121.64] Hail the Lamb. -[6121.64 --> 6122.44] Hail the Lamb. -[6122.44 --> 6126.38] Hail the Lamb. -[6126.46 --> 6131.40] Hail the Lamb. -[6131.40 --> 6161.38] Thank you. -[6161.40 --> 6191.38] Thank you. -[6191.40 --> 6193.40] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, Aug 4, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, Aug 4, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f204163926dcc0e0f5516e662ba4c77a88ddfc82..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, Aug 4, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,99 +0,0 @@ -• The speaker leads a hymn of praise and rejoicing. -• Chris, one of the pastors, welcomes guests and announces that he will not be leading the service today. -• Pastor Kevin will lead the preaching, along with other team members. -• Upcoming events include Reactivate, a youth conference in September, which requires volunteers. -• The congregation is encouraged to prepare for the Lord's Supper next week. -• A call to worship from Psalm 103 is given. -• Praise and worship of God -• Jesus Christ as source of heaven, fire, life in darkness, hope, rock, light, and comfort -• Call for men to stand with His people -• Confession of sin before God and seeking mercy and grace -• Remembering God's faithfulness and compassion -• Recognition of God's holiness -• Celebration through singing out and crying out -• Declaring Jesus Christ is alive -• Praising and singing about the cross and its significance -• Acknowledging sin and seeking forgiveness -• Expressing gratitude for mercy and grace -• Inviting children to come forward and participate in a service -• Sharing personal stories and experiences of outdoor activities -• Ending with a prayer for unity and a display of joy and love -• A river is mentioned as a topic of conversation -• The speaker discusses attending church and participating in children's worship time -• Prayers are said for various individuals including Everly Varshtra and Emo Smid undergoing medical procedures -• Gratitude is expressed for blessings and healing in the lives of congregants -• The speaker shares their experience attending seminary to receive a Master's of Divinity -• They discuss the diversity of students they've met through their seminary classes, from various countries and cultures -• Discussing challenges faced by others in different cultures and contexts -• Reading and interpretation of Acts chapter 10, specifically verses 23-48 -• Peter's vision and meeting with Cornelius, a Roman centurion and Gentile -• God's acceptance of all nations and people who fear Him and do right -• The message of Jesus Christ as the Lord of all and the gift of forgiveness of sins through His name -• The Holy Spirit being poured out on Gentiles, including baptism with water for them -• Cornelius is a Gentile Roman centurion who receives a vision from an angel to send for Peter -• Peter has his own vision of a large sheet with animals, and is told by the voice in heaven to kill and eat them -• Peter refuses at first, citing Jewish law that the animals are unclean -• The Holy Spirit informs Peter that there are three men seeking him, and they turn out to be Cornelius' servants -• Peter realizes through the work of the Spirit that Gentiles are part of God's kingdom as well -• The visions in the passage are centered on food and may seem strange at first, but serve a deeper purpose -• Old Testament laws prohibited eating certain animals -• These laws were given to define God's people and set them apart from surrounding nations -• The laws included not worshipping idols, sacrificing children, working on the Sabbath, and eating certain animals -• Peter was Jewish and proud of his heritage and these laws -• Jesus later saw that these same laws had become a source of division among God's people -• Shift from dietary laws to spiritual understanding -• Defilement comes from the mouth, not what goes into it -• The kingdom of God is expanding beyond Israel and tradition -• Belief in Christ defines one's place among God's people, not borders or rules -• The early church debates whether Gentiles must follow Jewish customs to be included with God's people -• The debate at the Jerusalem Council was about whether Gentiles must be circumcised to be saved -• Peter and James supported the idea that salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ, not through the law of Moses -• The council decided that Gentiles do not need to be circumcised, but should abstain from sexual immorality and idolatry -• Unity of the church is rooted in Jesus Christ -• The early church debated what united the church, focusing on laws and customs rather than faith in Christ -• True unity comes from being grafted into and rooted in the gospel truth of Jesus Christ -• Customs and practices are no longer defining God's people, but Jesus Christ is -• A quote from an early church father, Siberian, describes a beautiful picture of believers united across the globe, not by practices or heritage, but by their common Savior -• The unity of God's church is like a single body of light that shines over the world -• Separation from Jesus is not possible for believers -• Jesus' life, death, and resurrection unite us in him -• All people are united as one in Christ Jesus, regardless of background or status -• Unity is found in Jesus -• The ultimate picture of eternity is described in Revelation 7, where a great multitude from every nation stands before the throne and Lamb -• The book of Revelation is described as a vision of salvation for all people from every tribe, nation, and tongue. -• Acts 10 and Acts 15 are referenced as examples of the early church's struggles to understand the inclusivity of God's plan. -• The unity in Christ is not just for one group or culture but for all nations and peoples. -• The diversity of the global church is seen as a reflection of God's people from across the world, rooted in Christ. -• The church thrives when it is made up of people from diverse nations and backgrounds. -• The speaker invites the audience to consider what this means for their local community and how they can embody this vision. -• The CRC's Dutch heritage and history -• Importance of remembering and celebrating the CRC's history -• Danger of letting the CRC's Dutchness divide it from others -• Need for diversity and inclusivity within the CRC -• Caution against flaunting or emphasizing the CRC's Dutchness too much -• The importance of not being divided by words or identity -• Growing into God's kingdom as seen in Revelation 7 and Acts 10 -• Who is at your table: considering those we interact with and how we can be inclusive and united as the church -• The dangers of echo chambers, individualism, and categorization in society and its impact on faith and community -• The importance of unity within the church as a witness to unbelievers -• The importance of the church being unified despite diversity -• Observing and appreciating the diversity within a single congregation -• Understanding that different stories and perspectives are grafted into one story: the true redemption story of God -• Emphasizing unity in Christ despite differences in opinions and backgrounds -• Encouraging individuals to evaluate their relationships and actions as representing the kingdom of God -• The speaker discusses their life, death, resurrection, and ascension into heaven -• The world is polarized and opinions fly around in person and online -• God unites people of all races and backgrounds through His spirit -• Prayers are offered for the global church, including churches in Africa, South America, Asia, and other regions -• The congregation thinks of missionaries and refugees they support and pray for them -• They acknowledge their role as God's hands and feet in the world and pray to live according to God's will -• The speaker references the concept of unity in Christ across different nations and cultures -• A hymn is sung, emphasizing the unity and salvation found in Jesus Christ -• A guitar player who is normally a pianist played in the church service for the first time since grade 6. -• The congregation was encouraged to enjoy fellowship and koinonia with each other. -• The speaker mentioned Langley Emmanuel CRC and emphasized that they are part of a global universal church. -• The priestly blessing from number 6 in Exodus was read, asking God's blessings on the people. -• Praise and worship continued, declaring God's glory, wisdom, honor, and power, with repeated phrases of "be to our God forever and ever". -• Expressions of gratitude were offered multiple times. -• Repeated expression of gratitude -• Silence between expressions of gratitude \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, Aug 4, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, Aug 4, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index e6f6c4b8a27d205cde8a7939b0b4258807aa2c7d..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, Aug 4, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1805 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.66] I hope you sing, rejoice. -[4.10 --> 9.70] Come and lift your hands and raise your voice. -[10.10 --> 12.84] He is worthy of all praise. -[14.36 --> 15.64] Rejoice. -[15.92 --> 22.80] Sing the mercies of your King and with trembling rejoice. -[30.00 --> 42.38] As you'll see, this beautiful little -[43.98 --> 49.52] means the certainly scores tule -[49.52 --> 58.64] your first time in eat conference. -[58.64 --> 62.48] A great high priest whose name is love -[62.48 --> 67.20] Whoever lives and pleads on me -[67.20 --> 72.20] My name is graven on his hands -[72.20 --> 76.84] My name is written on his heart -[76.84 --> 81.80] I know that while in heaven he stands -[81.80 --> 86.48] No tongue can bid me this deep heart -[86.48 --> 91.36] No tongue can bid me this deep heart -[91.36 --> 96.08] When Satan tempts me to despair -[96.08 --> 100.92] And tells me of the guilt within -[100.92 --> 105.92] Upwards I look and see and then -[105.92 --> 110.76] Who made an end of all my sin -[110.76 --> 115.62] Because the sinless Savior died -[115.62 --> 120.50] My simple soul is grounded free -[120.50 --> 125.22] For God that just is satisfied -[125.22 --> 130.10] To look on him and part in me -[130.10 --> 134.94] To look on him and part in me -[134.94 --> 141.78] My life my church may be -[141.78 --> 148.14] Found him and part in me -[148.14 --> 150.54] I canege over all my sights -[150.54 --> 155.50] And even though I don't want to me -[155.50 --> 161.50] Behold Him there, the risen Lamb -[161.50 --> 165.84] My perfect spotless righteousness -[165.84 --> 171.06] The greater change of all I am -[171.06 --> 176.06] The King of glory and of grace -[176.06 --> 183.10] One with Himself, I cannot die -[183.10 --> 187.96] My soul is purchased with His blood -[187.96 --> 192.78] My life is in with Christ on high -[192.78 --> 197.60] With Christ my Savior and my God -[197.60 --> 202.48] With Christ my Savior and my God -[213.10 --> 221.26] One with His Savior and his Lord -[221.26 --> 224.26] I am so happy to be saved -[224.26 --> 231.00] My grace was my Savior and my Savior -[231.00 --> 247.14] Where's your heart at? -[248.96 --> 251.76] Is it gripped by idols? -[253.42 --> 255.64] Where's your head at? -[255.64 --> 261.02] Is it lost in foolish strife? -[261.74 --> 263.54] Where'd your lips speak? -[265.54 --> 268.50] Do they praise and curse at the same time? -[273.38 --> 275.32] Good morning. -[276.90 --> 279.14] Welcome to worship. -[279.38 --> 282.86] A special welcome if you are a guest with us this morning. -[283.04 --> 283.82] My name is Chris. -[284.50 --> 286.30] I'm one of the pastors here. -[286.82 --> 289.70] And in fact, this is the last time you'll see me on stage this morning. -[289.80 --> 291.82] Because Pastor Kevin is going to lead us in preaching. -[292.44 --> 294.60] And others are up here leading as well. -[294.78 --> 302.22] So if you are here this morning and wondering about what it is that you can sign up for and volunteer. -[302.54 --> 303.66] Because that's at least one of you. -[304.38 --> 306.14] Do we have an announcement for you? -[307.28 --> 311.22] Coming in September, we're hosting Reactivate, which is a youth conference. -[311.22 --> 318.20] We get youth from Christian Reformed churches all over BC who descend into our space here. -[318.60 --> 322.86] And about 200 of them come for the weekend to worship and to learn. -[323.42 --> 324.32] And we host them. -[324.68 --> 326.48] And to do that, we need a bunch of volunteers. -[326.82 --> 330.24] And so we've had a volunteer list out for quite some time. -[330.86 --> 331.96] It's in the e-bulletin. -[332.46 --> 336.54] There are 40 vacancies that still need to be filled. -[336.54 --> 339.52] So 40 volunteer slots that need to plug in. -[339.64 --> 344.20] So even if you've signed up for one already, maybe go back and check if you've got another spot in you. -[344.58 --> 346.06] So we can round that out together. -[347.50 --> 352.48] That being said, it is an amazing weekend and a wonderful time. -[352.58 --> 355.30] So I really encourage you to check that out and to connect there. -[355.94 --> 361.12] As far as announcements go for me, just the last one is more of a prayerful announcement. -[361.12 --> 366.86] And that's next week, Sunday, when we gather for worship, we're going to participate in Lord's Supper together. -[367.56 --> 372.80] And so we encourage you to use this week to prepare your hearts and to talk with your families, if you have them, -[373.26 --> 377.04] about what it means to come to the table, be ushered into the presence of God, -[377.10 --> 379.86] and to taste and see that the Lord is good. -[380.86 --> 385.54] With those two things out of the way, I'm going to invite you to stand, if you are able, and as you are able. -[385.74 --> 387.86] And we're going to be welcomed into God's presence. -[387.86 --> 392.64] Following the greeting of God, I invite you to turn to those around you and welcome them into worship. -[393.16 --> 395.60] You can do that by passing the peace of Christ, saying, -[395.68 --> 397.40] The Lord be with you, peace of Christ. -[397.98 --> 402.50] Or you can shake a hand, you can do a fist bump, you can nod your head, -[402.64 --> 406.30] you can look glaringly at the person beside you who forgot to put deodorant on. -[406.74 --> 409.66] Whatever the case may be, welcome them in the Lord. -[410.10 --> 411.40] Receive God's greeting. -[411.40 --> 420.94] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, -[421.40 --> 423.76] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[424.36 --> 424.62] Amen. -[424.62 --> 424.74] Amen. -[424.74 --> 424.78] Amen. -[441.40 --> 458.70] Good morning, everyone. -[459.54 --> 463.12] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalms 103. -[463.12 --> 468.16] Praise the Lord, O my soul, all my innermost being, praise his holy name. -[468.68 --> 472.30] Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits. -[472.94 --> 478.12] Praise the Lord, you his angels, you mighty ones who do his bidding, who obey his word. -[478.82 --> 482.98] Praise the Lord, all his heavenly hosts, you his servants who do his will. -[483.66 --> 487.00] Praise the Lord, all his works, everywhere in his dominion. -[487.46 --> 489.12] Praise the Lord, O my soul. -[489.12 --> 519.10] Praise the Lord, O my soul. -[519.12 --> 549.10] Praise the Lord, my soul, and my son, and my son, and my son, and my son. -[549.10 --> 553.52] His wings so, so gently sustaining. -[554.70 --> 565.20] Have you not seen all that His people has been sent by His gracious ordaining? -[569.64 --> 577.50] Praise to the Lord who will prosper your work and defend you. -[577.50 --> 585.42] Surely His goodness and mercy shall dimly attend you. -[585.86 --> 597.36] Father anew, what the all-white He can do, as with His love He befriends you. -[599.44 --> 607.24] Praise to the Lord who will all that is in need adore Him. -[607.50 --> 614.70] All that has lined you have come out with praises before Him. -[614.70 --> 621.36] Let the all men stand from His people again. -[621.68 --> 627.02] Let me forever adore Him. -[627.02 --> 634.22] Let the all men stand from His people again. -[634.22 --> 636.22] Let the all men stand from Him. -[636.22 --> 640.22] Let the all men stand from Him. -[640.22 --> 647.42] Let the all men stand from Him. -[647.42 --> 654.12] Let the all men stand from Him. -[654.62 --> 656.62] ống polynomial high Boot creator. -[656.62 --> 658.62] Let the all men stand from Him. -[658.62 --> 659.46] cis sing a会 Am 후�rel quej DE & O 1970 -[659.84 --> 661.76] Let the all men stand at Him. -[661.76 --> 669.08] Jesus, life in darkness, Jesus, the Lord understands. -[670.44 --> 674.64] You are the source of heaven and fire. -[676.12 --> 679.94] In history, you live in us. -[680.12 --> 683.86] You broke the chains you rose to life. -[685.12 --> 688.52] You are the hope living in us. -[688.52 --> 692.32] You are the rock in whom we trust. -[692.72 --> 697.98] You are the light shining for all the world to see. -[699.86 --> 703.68] You rose from the dead, conquering fear. -[704.12 --> 707.50] Our chisthenes, drawing us near. -[707.94 --> 713.24] Jesus, our hope living for all the will we see. -[713.24 --> 717.12] For we will be. -[718.52 --> 727.90] Jesus, hope of the nations. -[728.54 --> 732.82] Jesus, comfort for all who are born. -[733.30 --> 737.32] You are the source of heaven and fire. -[737.32 --> 742.94] Jesus, life in darkness. -[743.96 --> 747.28] Jesus, through many circumstances. -[748.70 --> 752.70] You are the source of heaven and fire. -[752.70 --> 754.80] You are the source of heaven and fire. -[754.80 --> 758.44] In history, you live in us. -[758.58 --> 762.36] You broke the chains you rose to life. -[763.08 --> 767.20] You are the hope living in us. -[767.58 --> 771.06] You are the rock in whom we trust. -[771.42 --> 776.76] You are the light shining for all the world to see. -[776.76 --> 782.66] He rose from the dead, conquering fear -[782.66 --> 786.46] Heartless to be, dry in a spear -[786.46 --> 792.28] Jesus our hope, living for all who will receive -[792.28 --> 796.06] Lord we believe -[796.06 --> 800.00] Lord we believe -[800.00 --> 803.46] Lord we believe -[806.76 --> 813.76] Brothers and sisters, the proof of God's amazing love is this -[813.76 --> 817.30] While we were sinners, Christ died for us -[817.30 --> 821.38] He is the hope of all the nations, not just for Israel -[821.38 --> 823.10] but also the Gentiles -[823.10 --> 827.32] He died for the rich and the poor, the strong and the weak -[827.32 --> 830.02] the good Samaritan and the thief -[830.02 --> 834.44] Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness -[834.44 --> 839.50] so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need -[839.50 --> 842.46] Trusting in God's faithfulness and compassion -[842.46 --> 844.90] Let us confess our sin before God -[844.90 --> 848.68] In a time of silent confession -[848.68 --> 862.88] Let us remember -[862.88 --> 869.66] Let us ring the peace -[869.66 --> 898.66] All the poor and powerless -[898.66 --> 905.06] All the lost and lonely -[905.06 --> 911.66] All the fears were found in us -[911.66 --> 917.66] Know that you are holy -[917.66 --> 923.66] Know that you are holy -[923.66 --> 930.46] And all will sing out -[930.46 --> 933.56] Alleluia -[933.56 --> 937.32] And we will cry out -[937.32 --> 940.66] Alleluia -[940.66 --> 950.96] And all the hearts of our content -[950.96 --> 957.46] And all the fears are hurting -[957.46 --> 963.46] And all the fears are not regret -[963.46 --> 969.46] Know that you are holy -[969.46 --> 976.16] And all will sing out -[976.16 --> 979.26] Alleluia -[979.26 --> 982.26] And we will cry out -[982.26 --> 986.26] Alleluia -[986.26 --> 989.76] And we will sing out -[989.76 --> 993.06] Alleluia -[993.06 --> 996.56] And we will cry out -[996.56 --> 1000.26] Alleluia -[1000.26 --> 1012.06] And we will cry out -[1012.06 --> 1016.44] Shout it. -[1017.30 --> 1022.34] No one scream it from the mountains. -[1022.34 --> 1035.34] No one tell it to the masses that He is alive. -[1035.34 --> 1043.52] Shout it. -[1043.52 --> 1048.78] Go on and scream it from the mountains. -[1050.18 --> 1061.24] Go on and tell it to the masses that He is alive. -[1065.34 --> 1069.62] Shout it. -[1069.62 --> 1075.02] Go on and scream it from the mountains. -[1075.02 --> 1087.02] Go on and tell it to the masses that He is alive. -[1087.02 --> 1091.30] Go on and scream it from the mountains. -[1091.30 --> 1098.40] We will sing out, hallelujah. -[1098.40 --> 1105.00] We will cry out, hallelujah. -[1105.00 --> 1111.42] We will sing out, hallelujah. -[1111.42 --> 1117.70] We will sing out, hallelujah. -[1117.70 --> 1120.70] We will sing out, hallelujah. -[1120.70 --> 1127.70] Go on and scream it from the mountains. -[1127.70 --> 1133.70] Go on and tell it to the masses that He is alive. -[1133.70 --> 1139.98] That He is alive. -[1139.98 --> 1145.98] Shout it. -[1145.98 --> 1151.98] Go on and scream it from the mountains. -[1151.98 --> 1155.98] Go on and tell it to the masses that He is alive. -[1155.98 --> 1168.00] To the masses that He is alive. -[1168.00 --> 1174.26] And He is alive. -[1174.26 --> 1203.50] I know a place, a wonderful place, -[1203.50 --> 1212.22] We're accused and condemned by mercy and grace, -[1212.80 --> 1220.96] The wrongs we have done and the wrongs done to us, -[1220.96 --> 1230.96] We're ill, ill, there within, there on the cross. -[1230.96 --> 1240.06] At the cross, He died for our sins, -[1240.06 --> 1249.36] At the cross, He gave us life again. -[1249.36 --> 1259.88] I know a place, a wonderful place, -[1259.88 --> 1268.36] We're accused and condemned by mercy and grace, -[1268.36 --> 1277.46] Where the wrongs we have done and the wrongs done to us, -[1277.46 --> 1286.46] We're ill, ill, there within, there on the cross. -[1286.46 --> 1295.56] At the cross, He died for our sins, -[1295.56 --> 1303.46] At the cross, He gave us life again. -[1303.46 --> 1312.56] At the cross, He died for our sins, -[1312.56 --> 1322.46] At the cross, He gave us life again. -[1322.46 --> 1333.94] I know a place, a wonderful place, -[1333.94 --> 1343.04] At the cross, He died for our sins, -[1343.04 --> 1348.04] At the cross, He died for our sins, -[1348.04 --> 1353.04] At the cross, He died for our sins, -[1353.04 --> 1354.64] At the cross, He died for our sins, -[1354.64 --> 1358.74] At the cross, He died for our sins, -[1358.74 --> 1363.14] At the cross, He died for our sins, -[1363.14 --> 1370.24] Good morning, -[1370.24 --> 1373.14] We have an opportunity to give up our gifts this morning, -[1373.14 --> 1375.14] For the ministry of missions here, -[1375.14 --> 1382.44] At Emmanuel, as well as for the refugee chaplain. -[1382.44 --> 1412.42] Thank you. -[1412.44 --> 1424.88] Let the presence of the risen Lord come in my heart and make me whole. -[1426.52 --> 1432.44] Cause your word to come alive in me. -[1433.14 --> 1438.70] Give me faith for what I cannot see. -[1438.70 --> 1445.00] Give me passion for your purity. -[1445.56 --> 1450.70] Holy Spirit, renew my peace. -[1453.14 --> 1458.78] Holy Spirit, come alive with me. -[1458.78 --> 1464.78] May your joy be seen in all I do. -[1466.52 --> 1472.16] Love may not to cover every sin. -[1472.56 --> 1476.78] In each pause and lead and act to. -[1476.78 --> 1478.78] Amen. -[1478.78 --> 1480.78] Amen. -[1480.78 --> 1482.78] Amen. -[1482.78 --> 1484.78] Amen. -[1484.78 --> 1486.78] Amen. -[1486.78 --> 1488.78] Amen. -[1488.78 --> 1490.78] Amen. -[1490.78 --> 1492.78] Amen. -[1492.78 --> 1494.78] Amen. -[1494.78 --> 1495.78] Amen. -[1495.78 --> 1496.78] Amen. -[1496.78 --> 1500.78] Amen. -[1506.68 --> 1508.78] Amen. -[1508.78 --> 1510.78] Amen. -[1510.78 --> 1517.78] giving life to all that God has made. -[1519.18 --> 1525.10] Show your power once again on earth, -[1525.42 --> 1530.78] cause your church to hunger for your grace. -[1532.64 --> 1537.78] Let the prayers of our prayers arise, -[1537.78 --> 1543.78] He has gone the road of sacrifice, -[1545.78 --> 1550.78] that in unity the face of Christ -[1550.78 --> 1556.78] may be clear for all the world to see. -[1567.78 --> 1572.78] I would love to invite all of the kids aged preschool and up to kindergarten -[1572.78 --> 1575.78] and anybody else who feels like a kid or wants to be a kid right now, -[1575.78 --> 1579.78] you can come forward and join me up here at the front. -[1579.78 --> 1592.78] Good morning everyone, how are we doing today? -[1592.78 --> 1594.78] Good? -[1594.78 --> 1597.78] Are we enjoying the summer? -[1597.78 --> 1599.78] What are we doing right now outside? -[1599.78 --> 1602.78] Playing? Are you playing a lot? -[1602.78 --> 1604.78] Who here has gone camping? -[1604.78 --> 1605.78] Me! -[1605.78 --> 1607.78] Who here has gone swimming? -[1607.78 --> 1608.78] They're camping. -[1608.78 --> 1609.78] You're camping right now? -[1609.78 --> 1610.78] No. -[1610.78 --> 1611.78] Tomorrow? -[1611.78 --> 1612.78] Tomorrow? -[1612.78 --> 1613.78] That is so exciting. -[1613.78 --> 1614.78] We can't go right through. -[1614.78 --> 1615.78] You did? -[1615.78 --> 1616.78] I swear. -[1616.78 --> 1617.78] Oh that's so fun. -[1617.78 --> 1623.78] And also, and also there was a river. -[1623.78 --> 1624.78] Oh, a river. -[1624.78 --> 1625.78] Did you swim in the river? -[1625.78 --> 1626.78] Yeah. -[1626.78 --> 1627.78] Yeah. -[1627.78 --> 1630.78] Just a few more seconds. -[1630.78 --> 1631.78] Yeah? -[1631.78 --> 1633.78] It was a big one. -[1633.78 --> 1634.78] A big river. -[1634.78 --> 1636.78] Well we're going to spend... -[1636.78 --> 1637.78] Oh. -[1637.78 --> 1638.78] Really? -[1638.78 --> 1641.78] That is very exciting. -[1641.78 --> 1643.78] Well we're going to do something else very exciting right now. -[1643.78 --> 1644.78] Do you know what we're going to do? -[1644.78 --> 1647.78] We're going to pray and then we're going to go to children's worship time. -[1647.78 --> 1648.78] Does that sound fun? -[1648.78 --> 1649.78] Yeah? -[1649.78 --> 1651.78] Okay, so let's pray, let's fold our hands and close our eyes, -[1651.78 --> 1654.78] and then we're going to do the Lord's blessing or the children's blessing. -[1654.78 --> 1655.78] Okay? -[1655.78 --> 1656.78] All right, let's pray. -[1656.78 --> 1659.78] Dear God, thank you so much that we could come to church today -[1659.78 --> 1662.78] and we pray for the kids now as they go to children's worship time -[1662.78 --> 1664.78] and the grown-ups as we stay back here. -[1664.78 --> 1666.78] May we all learn a little bit more about you today. -[1666.78 --> 1668.78] We pray this in your name. -[1668.78 --> 1669.78] Amen. -[1669.78 --> 1672.78] Okay, before you run off, let's everybody stand up -[1672.78 --> 1675.78] and then we're going to say the Lord be with you at the same time. -[1675.78 --> 1676.78] Are you ready? -[1676.78 --> 1677.78] Let's say it together. -[1677.78 --> 1679.78] God the Lord. -[1679.78 --> 1682.78] And also with you. -[1682.78 --> 1685.78] Come with me, Naomi. -[1707.78 --> 1715.00] Hi, my name is Courtney and it is my privilege to lead us all in the congregational prayer. -[1715.38 --> 1716.36] Please bow your heads with me. -[1718.06 --> 1722.36] Dear Heavenly Foddler, thank you for the opportunity for us to gather together this morning. -[1722.90 --> 1725.58] We praise you for the healing that you have brought to Everly Varshtra. -[1726.06 --> 1729.96] Thank you that everything came back clear from the surgery site and lymph node biopsy. -[1730.96 --> 1739.68] Give Stephen and Karen strength and patience as they are waiting on the results from her MRI and her gene sequencing test to determine the next steps. -[1740.28 --> 1742.40] Please bring continued healing in Everly's body. -[1743.52 --> 1747.78] Be near to Emo and Benita Smid as Emo goes in for open heart surgery. -[1748.44 --> 1750.78] Give him patience as his surgery has been postponed. -[1751.70 --> 1753.70] Give them your peace and strength during this time. -[1753.70 --> 1761.62] Be with Tanya, sister to Amanda Hogan-Wonning, who is currently in the hospital undergoing tests for spots seen on her lungs. -[1762.22 --> 1765.14] Give her strength and comfort as she waits for the test results. -[1767.12 --> 1773.02] We ask that you be with Nick Kolein and Kelsey Craddock as they plan to be married in Fort Langley this week. -[1773.44 --> 1775.74] Grant them your blessing as they begin their new life together. -[1776.84 --> 1780.30] Thank you for summer and for a time of relaxation and travel. -[1780.80 --> 1782.04] Help us to feel refreshed. -[1782.04 --> 1785.14] Give all those who are traveling your traveling mercies. -[1785.78 --> 1789.92] We thank you for every blessing you have poured into our lives, seen and unseen. -[1790.38 --> 1793.42] Your handiwork is evident in all aspects of our existence. -[1794.26 --> 1799.86] We are grateful for the many ways you enrich our journey, often beyond what we recognize or request. -[1800.82 --> 1803.64] We lift up those who are facing challenges within their families. -[1804.24 --> 1809.42] Bring healing to strained relationships, understanding where there is conflict, and love where there is hurt. -[1809.42 --> 1813.62] Guide each family member in navigating their difficulties with grace and empathy. -[1815.08 --> 1817.52] Be with Kevin as he delivers us your word today. -[1817.82 --> 1818.60] Bless the message. -[1818.78 --> 1820.70] May it be your word spoken through him. -[1821.18 --> 1823.08] Give us open hearts to receive the message. -[1823.74 --> 1825.80] We pray this all in Jesus' most holy name. -[1825.80 --> 1826.14] Amen. -[1826.14 --> 1826.26] Amen. -[1826.26 --> 1853.96] So, since September of 2018, I have had the opportunity and the privilege, -[1853.96 --> 1861.48] and probably about 85% of the time, the joy of going to seminary to receive my Master's of Divinity. -[1862.48 --> 1868.58] I'm about 28 and three quarters of the way through, and I've got three and a quarter left. -[1869.28 --> 1873.10] And at first, I thought I was going there, and when I was done and getting my Master's of Divinity, -[1873.18 --> 1874.08] I could become a wizard. -[1874.34 --> 1878.72] But I found out a few years in that it's actually become a pastor, which is also pretty neat. -[1878.72 --> 1886.64] Now, I tell you this because one of the coolest parts of seminary are the people that I get to take classes with. -[1887.30 --> 1893.24] For example, I just finished a course on the Reformed creeds and confessions with 10 other students. -[1893.36 --> 1894.42] There was 11 of us total. -[1894.52 --> 1897.04] And in that class, the students were from all over the world. -[1897.78 --> 1903.06] There was a student from China, from Korea, from Belize, from Uganda, even Michigan. -[1903.06 --> 1908.52] In another class that I'm still just kind of wrapping up, it's a similar situation. -[1908.60 --> 1911.86] There's only nine of us in that class, but again, there's students from all over the world. -[1911.94 --> 1919.96] There's a student from the Philippines, from Korea, from Nigeria, from Uganda, and from White Horse Yukon. -[1921.40 --> 1926.70] Now that school's sort of done online by most people, attending classes with people from all over the world -[1926.70 --> 1929.40] has become kind of the norm, at least in my experience. -[1929.40 --> 1935.30] And I've had the privilege to learn alongside these Christians who are gaining the same education that I am, -[1935.46 --> 1939.46] but they're applying it to contexts and cultures that are so much different than mine. -[1940.02 --> 1944.78] So in these churches found in Africa or Asia or South America, the challenges that they face -[1944.78 --> 1950.08] are just different than the challenges I face in my church, and it's fascinating discussing that with them. -[1950.72 --> 1955.06] A hot-button doctrines that we are finding here in Canada are not even debated overseas, -[1955.66 --> 1957.98] but things that they are challenged with we don't even think about. -[1957.98 --> 1963.64] I love hearing their stories, and they love hearing about what's happening here, -[1963.68 --> 1965.68] and it's been very beneficial for me to take in. -[1966.72 --> 1970.36] Well, today we're going to look at a couple of stories in the book of Acts -[1970.36 --> 1976.00] that tie into this idea of sort of believers beyond borders, which sounds like a reality TV show. -[1976.56 --> 1982.76] The hope is that we were going to come to realize just how the kingdom of God that Jesus illustrates -[1982.76 --> 1986.20] in the Bible is one of unity in diversity. -[1986.70 --> 1989.70] And so turn with me now, please, to Acts chapter 10. -[1990.24 --> 1993.14] We're going to read verses 23 through 48. -[1993.48 --> 1994.56] Please use your Bibles. -[1994.62 --> 1997.04] If you've brought them along, you can grab a Bible in the back. -[1997.12 --> 1997.96] There's plenty there. -[1998.18 --> 2002.56] You can also open up your phone, use your apps, but please do have those Bibles in front of you -[2002.56 --> 2006.02] because we're going to be kind of hopping around all over the New Testament today -[2006.02 --> 2008.02] and around Acts specifically. -[2009.28 --> 2012.74] We're going to go over the events leading up to verse 23 in our text, -[2012.84 --> 2015.34] but just as a quick one-sentence summary of what's going on here, -[2015.86 --> 2020.38] Peter has just had a vision of a bunch of animals that he's now allowed to eat, -[2020.44 --> 2024.60] which confuses him, and now he's heading to Cornelius' house, -[2024.68 --> 2028.92] who is a Roman centurion and a Gentile whom God has arranged for him to meet. -[2029.72 --> 2033.62] All right, so Peter's on the way to meet this man when our text picks up today. -[2033.62 --> 2034.96] So join me in reading Acts 10. -[2035.16 --> 2038.42] We're going to start verse 23, and we're going to read through 48. -[2038.58 --> 2041.70] We're actually starting halfway through 23, but if you read it, you'll see that there. -[2043.30 --> 2044.40] There we read this. -[2045.22 --> 2050.40] The next day Peter started out with them, and some of the believers from Joppa went along. -[2051.22 --> 2053.62] The following day he arrived in Caesarea. -[2054.24 --> 2058.04] Cornelius was expecting him and had called together his relatives and close friends. -[2058.04 --> 2063.80] As Peter entered the house, Cornelius met him and fell at his feet in reverence. -[2064.16 --> 2065.30] But Peter made him get up. -[2065.74 --> 2066.64] Stand up, he said. -[2066.68 --> 2067.80] I'm only a man myself. -[2068.84 --> 2072.72] While talking with him, Peter went inside and found a large gathering of people. -[2073.00 --> 2073.66] He said to them, -[2073.66 --> 2081.08] You are well aware that it is against our law for a Jew to associate with or visit a Gentile. -[2081.74 --> 2085.66] But God has shown me that I should not call anyone impure or unclean. -[2085.84 --> 2089.22] So when I was sent for, I came without raising any objection. -[2090.14 --> 2093.02] May I ask why you sent for me? -[2094.30 --> 2095.20] Cornelius answered, -[2095.20 --> 2098.24] Three days ago I was in my house praying at this hour. -[2098.60 --> 2105.08] At three in the afternoon, suddenly a man in shining clothes stood before me and said, -[2105.62 --> 2109.94] Cornelius, God has heard your prayer and remembered your gifts to the poor. -[2110.54 --> 2112.84] Send to Joppa for Simon who was called Peter. -[2113.18 --> 2116.66] He is a guest in the home of Simon the Tanner who lives by the sea. -[2117.38 --> 2119.88] So I sent for you immediately, and it was good of you to come. -[2119.88 --> 2125.48] Now we are all here in the presence of God to listen to everything the Lord has commanded you to tell us. -[2126.64 --> 2128.76] Then Peter began to speak. -[2129.92 --> 2134.90] I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism, -[2135.20 --> 2138.66] but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right. -[2138.92 --> 2141.60] You know the message God sent to the people of Israel, -[2141.92 --> 2145.70] announcing the good news of peace through Jesus Christ, who is the Lord of all. -[2145.70 --> 2148.78] You know what has happened throughout the province of Judea, -[2149.16 --> 2152.18] beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John preached, -[2153.08 --> 2156.56] how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, -[2156.96 --> 2161.84] and how he went along doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil -[2161.84 --> 2163.88] because God was with him. -[2164.94 --> 2169.06] We are witnesses of everything he did in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. -[2169.26 --> 2171.20] They killed him by hanging him on a cross, -[2171.20 --> 2175.32] but God raised him from the dead on the third day and caused him to be seen. -[2175.70 --> 2180.92] He was not seen by all the people, but by witnesses whom God had already chosen, -[2181.30 --> 2184.18] by us who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. -[2184.88 --> 2190.70] He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one whom God appointed -[2190.70 --> 2192.02] as judge of the living and the dead. -[2192.42 --> 2194.36] All the prophets testify about him, -[2194.60 --> 2198.88] that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name. -[2198.88 --> 2201.36] While Peter was still speaking these words, -[2201.48 --> 2203.82] the Holy Spirit came down on all who heard the message. -[2204.16 --> 2207.78] The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished -[2207.78 --> 2214.70] that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on Gentiles, -[2215.58 --> 2219.76] for they had heard them speaking in tongues and praising God. -[2219.76 --> 2222.04] Then Peter said, -[2222.04 --> 2227.92] Surely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water. -[2228.34 --> 2231.68] They have received the Holy Spirit just like we have. -[2232.42 --> 2235.38] So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. -[2235.96 --> 2238.56] Then they asked Peter to stay with them for a few days. -[2239.04 --> 2240.12] The word of the Lord. -[2240.12 --> 2245.40] Now, kids here today, as always, -[2245.88 --> 2250.66] if you want to draw a picture of something that has to do with what I'm saying up here, -[2250.70 --> 2252.54] that has to do with the sermon, please go for it -[2252.54 --> 2256.10] and hand it in to myself or Pastor Chris afterwards -[2256.10 --> 2258.44] because he is starting a bit of a collection. -[2259.04 --> 2260.06] And I haven't told him this yet, -[2260.10 --> 2261.88] but I'm going to encourage him at the end of the summer -[2261.88 --> 2265.94] to make some sort of a presentation or a video of all the pictures he receives. -[2266.12 --> 2268.48] But he needs to get quite a few for that to be any good. -[2268.48 --> 2271.98] So please write those up and you can give them to me if you can. -[2272.04 --> 2277.24] As a hint, today's sermon is going to be about how Christians all over the world -[2277.24 --> 2280.04] worship God together -[2280.04 --> 2283.00] and how we are all united because of Jesus. -[2283.42 --> 2283.60] All right? -[2283.64 --> 2285.50] So please keep listening, but that's a gist. -[2286.20 --> 2288.82] For you non-kids out there who stopped listening for a paragraph, -[2289.30 --> 2292.06] in other words, the big idea is this, -[2293.12 --> 2296.66] that God's love breaks down dividing barriers, -[2296.66 --> 2299.96] creating a new unity as God's people. -[2300.28 --> 2303.34] That God's love breaks down dividing barriers, -[2303.72 --> 2306.66] creating a new unity, there's a tongue twister, -[2306.96 --> 2308.72] as God's people. -[2309.50 --> 2309.72] All right? -[2309.76 --> 2310.86] So let's dig into this text. -[2311.22 --> 2313.04] Now, the events leading up to this passage, -[2313.14 --> 2314.32] like I summed up in one sentence, -[2314.38 --> 2315.26] they're very fascinating. -[2315.80 --> 2316.06] All right? -[2316.06 --> 2319.46] The first 22 and a half verses of Acts 10 -[2319.46 --> 2321.06] tell us that Cornelius, -[2321.48 --> 2323.06] this Gentile Roman centurion, -[2323.74 --> 2325.10] he's not a Jew, that's important, -[2325.54 --> 2326.30] he's praying. -[2326.80 --> 2329.40] When he gets a vision of an angel -[2329.40 --> 2331.58] who tells him that his prayers have been heard by God, -[2332.86 --> 2334.26] and that angel tells Cornelius -[2334.26 --> 2335.92] to send for Simon Peter, -[2336.02 --> 2336.76] who is in Joppa, -[2337.16 --> 2338.08] to come to him. -[2338.74 --> 2340.32] Meanwhile, while that's happening, -[2340.44 --> 2341.12] in Joppa, -[2341.54 --> 2343.24] Peter goes up on the roof to pray, -[2343.24 --> 2346.32] and he falls into a bit of a trance himself, -[2346.48 --> 2347.74] and he sees a vision as well. -[2347.96 --> 2351.22] He sees this large sheet come down from heaven, -[2351.54 --> 2353.88] and it's filled with a bunch of different animals, -[2354.00 --> 2356.18] a bunch of reptiles and a bunch of birds, -[2356.28 --> 2358.06] and this voice from heaven says to Peter, -[2358.78 --> 2359.64] kill and eat. -[2361.10 --> 2361.96] But Peter refuses. -[2363.10 --> 2364.80] He says the animals are unclean -[2364.80 --> 2366.02] according to the Jewish law, -[2366.02 --> 2367.98] but the voice then responds and says, -[2368.54 --> 2370.86] do not call anything impure -[2370.86 --> 2372.66] that God has made clean. -[2374.24 --> 2375.18] Now, admittedly, -[2375.24 --> 2376.38] if you read that part of the text, -[2376.50 --> 2377.96] Peter's downright confused. -[2378.78 --> 2380.84] But immediately after the vision, -[2380.96 --> 2382.28] he's informed by the Holy Spirit -[2382.28 --> 2383.50] that there are three men -[2383.50 --> 2385.30] that are seeking him at his door. -[2385.90 --> 2387.30] And these three men are the men -[2387.30 --> 2388.46] that Cornelius has sent. -[2388.54 --> 2389.28] And so they arrive, -[2389.36 --> 2391.42] and Peter goes to accompany them -[2391.42 --> 2393.18] to Cornelius' house. -[2393.72 --> 2396.20] We then read our passage that we read today -[2396.20 --> 2397.76] about how Peter, -[2397.88 --> 2398.68] through the work of the Spirit, -[2398.84 --> 2400.22] realizes that Gentiles -[2400.22 --> 2402.70] are a part of God's kingdom as well. -[2403.24 --> 2404.58] There's some very cool, -[2404.96 --> 2406.82] but a little bit of strange things happening here. -[2406.90 --> 2408.10] So what's with the animal vision? -[2408.34 --> 2409.72] Why is it centered on food? -[2409.90 --> 2411.78] And why is Peter so initially confused -[2411.78 --> 2412.90] about what's going on here? -[2413.94 --> 2415.58] Well, it's important for us to remember -[2415.58 --> 2417.60] that God's people were commanded -[2417.60 --> 2418.62] in the Old Testament -[2418.62 --> 2421.24] not to eat any of the animals -[2421.24 --> 2422.46] that Peter saw in that vision. -[2423.10 --> 2425.04] And it's not just like kind of mentioned. -[2425.28 --> 2427.24] If you read all of Leviticus 11, -[2427.40 --> 2428.44] it's a long chapter, -[2428.64 --> 2430.06] the whole chapter is about that. -[2430.06 --> 2431.78] And if you read Deuteronomy 14, -[2432.10 --> 2433.48] three-quarters of that chapter -[2433.48 --> 2434.28] are about this as well. -[2434.50 --> 2435.66] There's 68 verses -[2435.66 --> 2437.14] in those two chapters alone -[2437.14 --> 2438.94] explaining that God's people -[2438.94 --> 2440.58] aren't allowed to eat things like camels -[2440.58 --> 2441.72] or rock badgers -[2441.72 --> 2442.54] or shellfish -[2442.54 --> 2443.32] or rats -[2443.32 --> 2444.14] or weasels -[2444.14 --> 2444.74] or geckos -[2444.74 --> 2445.26] or vultures -[2445.26 --> 2445.74] or rabbits -[2445.74 --> 2446.48] or chameleons -[2446.48 --> 2448.02] or any kind of owl -[2448.02 --> 2448.80] that you can think of. -[2448.84 --> 2449.88] There's a bunch listed there. -[2450.10 --> 2451.32] And even pigs, -[2451.56 --> 2452.60] along with a ton of others. -[2453.72 --> 2454.82] The point is, -[2455.36 --> 2456.08] the Old Testament -[2456.08 --> 2457.16] it's very clear -[2457.16 --> 2458.58] that they were not allowed -[2458.58 --> 2459.42] to eat those animals. -[2462.36 --> 2464.14] Now these laws were given -[2464.14 --> 2465.96] to define God's people. -[2467.26 --> 2467.46] All right? -[2467.50 --> 2468.18] In the Old Testament -[2468.18 --> 2469.12] these laws were given -[2469.12 --> 2470.84] to set God's people apart -[2470.84 --> 2471.96] from the surrounding nations. -[2472.32 --> 2473.22] God had called them -[2473.22 --> 2474.08] to be different -[2474.08 --> 2475.28] from the surrounding nations. -[2475.80 --> 2477.10] Defined differently. -[2477.50 --> 2478.74] They were not to worship idols. -[2479.26 --> 2480.38] They were not to sacrifice -[2480.38 --> 2481.20] their children -[2481.20 --> 2482.70] to the false gods around them. -[2482.96 --> 2483.78] They were not to work -[2483.78 --> 2484.36] on the Sabbath -[2484.36 --> 2485.60] and they were not to eat -[2485.60 --> 2486.72] these kinds of animals. -[2488.24 --> 2489.80] Peter was Jewish -[2489.80 --> 2491.54] and these laws -[2491.54 --> 2493.08] were a part of who he was. -[2493.88 --> 2494.86] It helped him. -[2495.00 --> 2496.14] It helped form his identity. -[2496.32 --> 2497.00] It rooted him -[2497.00 --> 2497.92] in his heritage. -[2498.46 --> 2500.12] He was proud to be Jewish. -[2500.86 --> 2501.56] He was proud -[2501.56 --> 2502.82] to uphold these laws -[2502.82 --> 2504.26] that were laid out from him -[2504.26 --> 2506.60] generations upon generations ago. -[2508.10 --> 2509.46] So having a vision -[2509.46 --> 2511.02] telling him to kill -[2511.02 --> 2512.26] and eat those animals -[2512.26 --> 2513.40] would have graded -[2513.40 --> 2514.42] against the very core -[2514.42 --> 2515.20] of who he was. -[2517.38 --> 2518.40] It would have graded -[2518.40 --> 2519.22] against his heritage. -[2519.44 --> 2520.20] It would have graded -[2520.20 --> 2521.46] against his traditions, -[2521.60 --> 2522.10] his values. -[2522.20 --> 2522.68] This would have been -[2522.68 --> 2524.22] a very difficult thing -[2524.22 --> 2525.86] for Peter to wrap his head around. -[2528.94 --> 2530.10] But the problem was -[2530.10 --> 2531.10] while these laws -[2531.66 --> 2532.48] were implemented -[2532.48 --> 2534.06] in Old Testament Israel -[2534.06 --> 2535.72] to define God's people, -[2536.62 --> 2537.50] what was happening -[2537.50 --> 2538.78] was these same laws -[2538.78 --> 2539.26] were starting -[2539.26 --> 2540.58] to divide God's people. -[2540.58 --> 2543.60] The defining things -[2543.60 --> 2544.04] were turning -[2544.04 --> 2545.40] into dividing things. -[2546.64 --> 2547.72] Those laws -[2547.72 --> 2548.88] were implemented -[2548.88 --> 2550.16] to keep God's people -[2550.16 --> 2550.60] humble -[2550.60 --> 2552.08] and focused on him -[2552.08 --> 2553.00] and separate -[2553.00 --> 2555.90] from the nations -[2555.90 --> 2556.70] around him. -[2556.76 --> 2558.14] But there was a humility -[2558.14 --> 2559.72] intended by those laws -[2559.72 --> 2560.92] that God set -[2560.92 --> 2561.76] those people apart. -[2562.76 --> 2564.38] But as history unfolded, -[2564.54 --> 2566.12] what was meant -[2566.12 --> 2567.06] to help people -[2567.06 --> 2568.10] humbly follow -[2568.10 --> 2570.00] turned into something -[2570.00 --> 2570.56] that people -[2570.56 --> 2571.94] pridefully flaunted. -[2573.28 --> 2574.18] And so humility -[2574.18 --> 2575.62] intended to set -[2575.62 --> 2576.64] God's people apart -[2576.64 --> 2578.24] turned into a pride -[2578.24 --> 2579.48] which set -[2579.48 --> 2580.52] God's people -[2580.52 --> 2581.16] against. -[2583.24 --> 2584.34] Now Jesus saw -[2584.34 --> 2584.88] this happening -[2584.88 --> 2585.26] as well -[2585.26 --> 2585.96] in his ministry. -[2586.10 --> 2586.90] In Matthew 15, -[2587.28 --> 2588.62] if you turn to that now, -[2588.70 --> 2589.20] the Pharisees -[2589.20 --> 2590.04] accuse him -[2590.04 --> 2590.62] and the disciples -[2590.62 --> 2591.96] of not following -[2591.96 --> 2592.86] the Mosaic law. -[2593.26 --> 2593.88] And he responds -[2593.88 --> 2595.12] in Matthew 15 -[2595.12 --> 2595.92] verses 10 and 11 -[2595.92 --> 2596.42] by saying, -[2596.84 --> 2597.78] listen and understand. -[2598.82 --> 2599.68] What goes into -[2599.68 --> 2600.40] someone's mouth -[2600.40 --> 2601.82] does not defile him, -[2602.06 --> 2603.26] but what comes out -[2603.26 --> 2604.02] of their mouth, -[2604.28 --> 2605.58] that is what -[2605.58 --> 2606.38] defiles them. -[2607.74 --> 2608.42] See, the shift -[2608.42 --> 2609.36] was happening already -[2609.36 --> 2610.06] with Jesus -[2610.06 --> 2611.58] and now it's trickled -[2611.58 --> 2612.26] down to Peter. -[2613.58 --> 2614.34] Now this matters -[2614.34 --> 2615.14] because this whole -[2615.14 --> 2616.32] conversation is centered -[2616.32 --> 2616.82] on food, -[2617.10 --> 2617.76] but what our text -[2617.76 --> 2619.00] today is actually about -[2619.00 --> 2620.50] is the kingdom of God. -[2621.08 --> 2622.62] Who is allowed -[2622.62 --> 2623.68] to sit at the table? -[2624.52 --> 2625.46] Who can be a part -[2625.46 --> 2626.26] of God's people? -[2626.26 --> 2629.86] What once was defined -[2629.86 --> 2630.70] by borders -[2630.70 --> 2631.50] was now, -[2631.68 --> 2632.16] through Christ, -[2632.52 --> 2633.88] defined by belief. -[2635.06 --> 2636.68] The new defining thing -[2636.68 --> 2638.54] was not the culinary rules -[2638.54 --> 2639.38] that were set out for you, -[2639.42 --> 2640.54] but the understanding -[2640.54 --> 2641.26] that you are -[2641.26 --> 2642.36] in desperate need -[2642.36 --> 2643.42] of the death -[2643.42 --> 2644.42] or the life -[2644.42 --> 2644.90] and the death -[2644.90 --> 2645.52] and the resurrection -[2645.52 --> 2646.48] of Jesus Christ. -[2646.48 --> 2650.66] to the story again. -[2650.74 --> 2651.24] Peter, though, -[2651.32 --> 2652.40] after a lot of confusion, -[2652.52 --> 2653.34] to his credit, -[2654.28 --> 2655.32] he goes along -[2655.32 --> 2656.06] with the Holy Spirit. -[2656.18 --> 2656.76] He follows -[2656.76 --> 2658.50] what he is being led to -[2658.50 --> 2659.08] and he is able -[2659.08 --> 2660.22] to realize this -[2660.22 --> 2661.04] in our text today -[2661.04 --> 2661.52] when he says -[2661.52 --> 2662.92] in verses 34 and 35, -[2663.04 --> 2663.54] he says this, -[2663.88 --> 2664.14] he says, -[2664.22 --> 2665.52] I now realize -[2665.52 --> 2666.84] how true it is -[2666.84 --> 2668.08] that God does not -[2668.08 --> 2668.98] show favoritism, -[2669.66 --> 2670.42] but accepts -[2670.42 --> 2671.38] from every nation -[2671.38 --> 2672.60] the one who fears him -[2672.60 --> 2673.42] and does what is right. -[2673.42 --> 2675.54] And he follows that up -[2675.54 --> 2676.26] a little bit later -[2676.26 --> 2677.24] in verse 43 -[2677.24 --> 2678.00] with the words, -[2678.58 --> 2679.12] everyone, -[2680.14 --> 2680.72] everyone -[2680.72 --> 2682.66] who believes in him -[2682.66 --> 2683.40] receives forgiveness -[2683.40 --> 2684.70] of sins -[2684.70 --> 2685.72] through his name. -[2687.64 --> 2689.38] A Gentile like Cornelius -[2689.38 --> 2690.18] was now welcome -[2690.18 --> 2691.10] into the fold. -[2691.68 --> 2693.06] God's covenant children -[2693.06 --> 2693.82] now expanded -[2693.82 --> 2695.56] beyond the Jewish people, -[2695.68 --> 2696.86] beyond traditions, -[2697.28 --> 2698.58] defining markers -[2698.58 --> 2700.92] were redrawn -[2700.92 --> 2701.78] and all nations -[2701.78 --> 2702.60] were being welcomed -[2702.60 --> 2703.74] into the mix. -[2704.04 --> 2704.98] This is one -[2704.98 --> 2706.34] of the primary stories -[2706.34 --> 2707.28] of the kingdom of God -[2707.28 --> 2708.28] expanding beyond -[2708.28 --> 2709.92] the people of Israel. -[2710.82 --> 2711.52] But the story -[2711.52 --> 2712.20] in Acts 10 -[2712.20 --> 2713.92] is just a microcosm -[2713.92 --> 2714.64] of what's to come. -[2715.92 --> 2716.94] Five chapters later -[2716.94 --> 2717.84] in Exodus 15, -[2718.08 --> 2718.72] we hear another -[2718.72 --> 2719.60] beautiful story -[2719.60 --> 2720.70] of the unity found -[2720.70 --> 2721.70] in the diversity -[2721.70 --> 2722.72] of the body of Christ. -[2723.04 --> 2723.58] I encourage you -[2723.58 --> 2724.44] to read it this week. -[2724.52 --> 2725.10] Acts 15, -[2725.20 --> 2725.96] read the whole chapter. -[2726.28 --> 2727.30] I'll summarize it for now. -[2727.66 --> 2728.38] In Acts 15, -[2728.48 --> 2729.12] the early church, -[2729.22 --> 2729.86] they were once again -[2729.86 --> 2730.44] debating -[2730.44 --> 2732.28] whether Gentiles -[2732.28 --> 2733.22] needed to follow -[2733.22 --> 2734.24] Jewish customs -[2734.24 --> 2735.92] in order to be included -[2735.92 --> 2736.78] with God's people. -[2737.16 --> 2737.86] Except this time -[2737.86 --> 2739.52] the debate wasn't on food, -[2739.84 --> 2740.90] it was on circumcision. -[2741.70 --> 2742.58] Some argued -[2742.58 --> 2743.62] that Gentiles -[2743.62 --> 2744.88] must be circumcised -[2744.88 --> 2745.58] to be saved, -[2745.90 --> 2746.40] which caused -[2746.40 --> 2747.36] a little bit of a stir -[2747.36 --> 2748.60] for the Gentile men. -[2748.88 --> 2750.46] I think we can all understand -[2750.46 --> 2751.36] why that would be true. -[2752.72 --> 2753.84] Well, Paul and Barnabas, -[2754.00 --> 2755.52] they were sent to Jerusalem -[2755.52 --> 2756.18] to consult -[2756.18 --> 2756.92] with the apostles -[2756.92 --> 2757.64] and the elders. -[2757.78 --> 2759.42] People like James -[2759.42 --> 2760.02] and Peter -[2760.02 --> 2761.14] were there as well. -[2761.94 --> 2762.40] And so you've got -[2762.40 --> 2763.50] James and Peter -[2763.50 --> 2765.30] and Paul and Barnabas -[2765.30 --> 2766.54] to be a fly on the wall -[2766.54 --> 2767.08] of that room -[2767.08 --> 2768.06] would have been fascinating. -[2768.96 --> 2769.22] There, -[2769.30 --> 2770.70] after a bunch of discussion -[2770.70 --> 2771.60] in verse 15, -[2772.04 --> 2772.72] Peter speaks, -[2773.00 --> 2774.14] no doubt remembering -[2774.14 --> 2775.06] what had just happened -[2775.06 --> 2776.38] with him at Cornelius' house -[2776.38 --> 2778.24] five chapters earlier, -[2778.44 --> 2779.60] and he emphasizes -[2779.60 --> 2780.82] that God shows -[2780.82 --> 2781.52] no distinction -[2781.52 --> 2782.76] between Jews and Gentiles. -[2782.98 --> 2784.16] He gives the Holy Spirit -[2784.16 --> 2784.64] to both. -[2784.64 --> 2786.50] He argued that salvation -[2786.50 --> 2787.42] is through the grace -[2787.42 --> 2788.78] of the Lord Jesus Christ -[2788.78 --> 2790.10] and not through the law. -[2791.28 --> 2792.34] James supported this -[2792.34 --> 2793.04] as well from Peter, -[2793.12 --> 2793.82] and he actually quotes -[2793.82 --> 2795.24] Amos 9 by saying, -[2795.64 --> 2796.54] the rest of mankind -[2796.54 --> 2797.70] may seek the Lord, -[2798.12 --> 2799.86] even all the Gentiles -[2799.86 --> 2801.48] who bear God's name. -[2802.74 --> 2804.04] So this council then, -[2804.14 --> 2805.04] after debating this -[2805.04 --> 2805.50] for a while, -[2805.80 --> 2806.50] decides that, -[2806.58 --> 2806.66] yeah, -[2806.74 --> 2807.80] the Gentiles don't need -[2807.80 --> 2808.74] to be circumcised, -[2809.20 --> 2810.88] but there are some things -[2810.88 --> 2811.56] they do need to do. -[2811.62 --> 2812.48] They need to abstain -[2812.48 --> 2814.06] from sexual immorality, -[2814.06 --> 2815.32] and other forms -[2815.32 --> 2816.18] of idolatry. -[2816.76 --> 2817.24] In other words, -[2817.32 --> 2818.76] the things that defined them -[2818.76 --> 2819.36] were changing, -[2820.16 --> 2821.14] but there was still -[2821.14 --> 2821.98] this bar of holiness -[2821.98 --> 2822.62] that we were called -[2822.62 --> 2824.46] to live and strive towards. -[2825.54 --> 2826.56] Now, this decision -[2826.56 --> 2827.82] was met with a ton -[2827.82 --> 2828.40] of encouragement -[2828.40 --> 2829.88] and joy by the early church, -[2830.00 --> 2830.66] and it marked -[2830.66 --> 2831.90] another pivotal moment -[2831.90 --> 2832.90] in the early church, -[2833.30 --> 2834.54] affirming that Gentiles -[2834.54 --> 2835.78] were now fully part -[2835.78 --> 2836.84] of the Christian community -[2836.84 --> 2837.76] without needing -[2837.76 --> 2838.46] to adopt all -[2838.46 --> 2839.50] of the Jewish customs -[2839.50 --> 2840.86] like circumcision -[2840.86 --> 2842.12] or not eating bacon. -[2845.04 --> 2846.68] So there's two stories, -[2847.22 --> 2849.06] five chapters apart -[2849.06 --> 2849.68] in Acts, -[2850.04 --> 2851.22] about how being a part -[2851.22 --> 2852.02] of God's kingdom -[2852.02 --> 2853.16] is not about -[2853.16 --> 2854.90] the full sort of burden -[2854.90 --> 2856.32] of the Mosaic law, -[2856.76 --> 2857.92] but about abstaining -[2857.92 --> 2858.78] from idolatry -[2858.78 --> 2860.60] and worshiping God alone. -[2860.70 --> 2861.44] No matter what -[2861.44 --> 2862.80] your nationality, -[2862.92 --> 2863.50] if you want to use -[2863.50 --> 2863.94] that word, -[2865.28 --> 2866.46] unity was now centered -[2866.46 --> 2867.24] on one truth, -[2868.02 --> 2868.70] that Jesus, -[2869.24 --> 2869.80] the Redeemer, -[2869.94 --> 2871.70] Savior for all, -[2873.36 --> 2874.10] needs to be a part -[2874.10 --> 2874.68] of our lives -[2874.68 --> 2876.24] and that God alone -[2876.24 --> 2877.34] is to be worshiped. -[2879.20 --> 2880.64] So in light of all of that, -[2880.88 --> 2882.32] in light of those two stories, -[2883.00 --> 2884.32] I'd like to suggest -[2884.32 --> 2885.06] three things -[2885.06 --> 2886.12] that we can take from this. -[2886.90 --> 2887.84] The first is this, -[2888.16 --> 2890.06] that unity is rooted -[2890.06 --> 2891.62] in Jesus Christ. -[2892.52 --> 2892.68] All right, -[2892.72 --> 2894.00] the early church debated -[2894.00 --> 2895.86] what the unifying measures -[2895.86 --> 2896.74] of church were -[2896.74 --> 2897.90] and when they focused -[2897.90 --> 2899.84] on laws or customs, -[2899.94 --> 2901.10] such as what food -[2901.10 --> 2901.98] people had to eat -[2901.98 --> 2903.38] or how much of their manhood -[2903.38 --> 2904.38] needed to be lopped off, -[2904.44 --> 2905.72] there started to become arguments. -[2907.34 --> 2908.52] Now, it's not the rules, -[2908.72 --> 2909.18] regulations, -[2909.32 --> 2909.98] or traditions -[2909.98 --> 2911.10] that we keep -[2911.10 --> 2911.84] that unite us -[2911.84 --> 2912.62] as God's people, -[2912.80 --> 2913.40] but the fact -[2913.40 --> 2914.30] that we are united -[2914.30 --> 2916.30] in Christ that does. -[2917.40 --> 2918.28] Now, please hear this. -[2918.34 --> 2919.32] In the words -[2919.32 --> 2920.86] of a wise pastor -[2920.86 --> 2922.16] that I know pretty well, -[2922.16 --> 2924.68] don't hear -[2924.68 --> 2926.08] what I'm not saying. -[2927.70 --> 2929.36] I am not saying -[2929.36 --> 2930.86] that all the rules -[2930.86 --> 2931.92] are now abolished -[2931.92 --> 2932.94] and that there are -[2932.94 --> 2933.74] no laws -[2933.74 --> 2934.66] that we must follow. -[2935.16 --> 2936.14] The story we read -[2936.14 --> 2936.84] in Acts 15 -[2936.84 --> 2937.64] spells this out -[2937.64 --> 2938.40] very clearly, -[2938.76 --> 2939.70] that all believers, -[2939.82 --> 2940.48] no matter if they were -[2940.48 --> 2941.42] Jew or Gentile, -[2941.68 --> 2942.38] they're still called -[2942.38 --> 2943.80] to abstain from idolatry. -[2944.02 --> 2944.72] They're still called -[2944.72 --> 2945.46] to abstain from -[2945.46 --> 2946.38] sexual immorality. -[2946.68 --> 2947.26] It's not that there's -[2947.26 --> 2948.62] no bar of holiness anymore. -[2948.62 --> 2950.62] It's just that -[2950.62 --> 2952.22] the customs that once -[2952.22 --> 2953.66] defined God's people -[2953.66 --> 2955.52] are no longer -[2955.52 --> 2956.70] defining God's people. -[2957.80 --> 2959.00] Instead, it's Jesus -[2959.00 --> 2960.68] who defines God's people. -[2961.02 --> 2961.78] Unity comes -[2961.78 --> 2963.20] when we as God's people -[2963.20 --> 2964.46] are grafted -[2964.46 --> 2964.98] and planted -[2964.98 --> 2965.52] and rooted -[2965.52 --> 2966.72] in the gospel truth -[2966.72 --> 2967.52] of Jesus Christ. -[2969.30 --> 2970.28] There's a quote -[2970.28 --> 2974.08] from an early church father -[2974.08 --> 2975.48] named Siberian. -[2976.24 --> 2977.02] He was born -[2977.02 --> 2978.50] and he lived in North Africa -[2978.50 --> 2979.10] in the beginning -[2979.10 --> 2979.98] of the third century. -[2980.10 --> 2980.66] So this is like, -[2980.72 --> 2981.70] this is a pretty old quote. -[2982.24 --> 2983.36] And this quote -[2983.36 --> 2984.58] paints just this -[2984.58 --> 2985.54] beautiful picture -[2985.54 --> 2987.78] of what being believers -[2987.78 --> 2989.34] across the globe, -[2989.50 --> 2990.48] united everywhere means. -[2991.42 --> 2992.72] It's not the practices -[2992.72 --> 2993.56] that we perform -[2993.56 --> 2994.24] or the heritage -[2994.24 --> 2994.96] that we have, -[2995.02 --> 2996.14] but it's the Savior -[2996.14 --> 2997.24] that we are all rooted in. -[2997.58 --> 2998.74] The quote's a little bit long, -[2999.00 --> 2999.66] but it's too good -[2999.66 --> 3000.44] not to read the whole thing. -[3000.60 --> 3001.84] So it'll be on the screen -[3001.84 --> 3002.28] behind me. -[3002.58 --> 3003.50] Siberian says this, -[3004.08 --> 3005.72] the church also is one -[3005.72 --> 3007.46] which is spread abroad -[3007.46 --> 3008.70] far and wide -[3008.70 --> 3009.72] into a multitude -[3009.72 --> 3011.10] by an increase -[3011.10 --> 3011.80] of fruitfulness. -[3012.52 --> 3013.76] As there are many rays -[3013.76 --> 3014.30] of the sun -[3014.30 --> 3014.98] but one light -[3014.98 --> 3016.16] and many branches -[3016.16 --> 3016.72] of a tree -[3016.72 --> 3017.64] but one strength -[3017.64 --> 3019.56] based in its tenacious root. -[3020.14 --> 3021.58] And since from one spring -[3021.58 --> 3023.06] flow many streams, -[3023.60 --> 3024.62] although the multiplicity -[3024.62 --> 3025.42] seems diffused -[3025.42 --> 3026.22] in the liberality -[3026.22 --> 3027.80] of an overflowing abundance, -[3028.94 --> 3029.66] yet the unity -[3029.66 --> 3031.00] is still preserved -[3031.00 --> 3031.84] in the source. -[3033.32 --> 3034.08] Separate a ray -[3034.08 --> 3034.70] from the sun -[3034.70 --> 3035.76] and its body of light, -[3036.04 --> 3036.52] its unity -[3036.52 --> 3037.32] does not allow -[3037.32 --> 3038.24] a division of light. -[3038.46 --> 3039.20] Break a branch -[3039.20 --> 3039.76] from a tree -[3039.76 --> 3040.36] when broken, -[3040.72 --> 3041.52] it will not be able -[3041.52 --> 3041.94] to bud. -[3042.54 --> 3043.50] Cut off the stream -[3043.50 --> 3044.30] from its fountain -[3044.30 --> 3045.72] and that which is cut off -[3045.72 --> 3046.24] dries up. -[3047.36 --> 3048.86] Thus is also the church, -[3049.60 --> 3050.42] shone over -[3050.42 --> 3051.04] with the light -[3051.04 --> 3051.56] of the Lord, -[3051.98 --> 3053.18] sheds forth her rays -[3053.18 --> 3054.20] over the whole world, -[3055.12 --> 3056.84] yet is one light -[3056.84 --> 3058.50] which is everywhere diffused. -[3059.22 --> 3060.12] Nor is the unity -[3060.12 --> 3060.90] of the body -[3060.90 --> 3061.68] separated. -[3061.68 --> 3063.96] Her fruitful abundance -[3063.96 --> 3065.36] spreads her branches -[3065.36 --> 3066.24] over the whole world. -[3066.38 --> 3068.04] She broadly expands -[3068.04 --> 3068.56] her rivers, -[3068.98 --> 3070.00] liberally flowing, -[3070.60 --> 3071.46] yet her head is one, -[3071.98 --> 3073.62] her source is one, -[3073.74 --> 3074.78] and she is one mother -[3074.78 --> 3076.22] plentiful in the results -[3076.22 --> 3076.88] of fruitfulness. -[3077.44 --> 3078.12] From her womb -[3078.12 --> 3078.78] we are born, -[3078.90 --> 3079.50] by her milk -[3079.50 --> 3080.14] we are nourished, -[3080.30 --> 3081.08] by her spirit -[3081.08 --> 3082.08] we are animated. -[3085.04 --> 3085.84] As believers, -[3086.00 --> 3087.06] we cannot be separated -[3087.06 --> 3087.82] from Jesus, -[3088.02 --> 3088.90] the source of life. -[3088.96 --> 3089.70] It is Jesus -[3089.70 --> 3091.36] who unites us. -[3091.36 --> 3092.56] It is the reality -[3092.56 --> 3093.48] that Jesus lived -[3093.48 --> 3094.54] a perfect life -[3094.54 --> 3095.24] that you and I -[3095.24 --> 3096.54] have failed to live -[3096.54 --> 3097.42] and the reality -[3097.42 --> 3098.90] that he died a death -[3098.90 --> 3099.90] that you and I -[3099.90 --> 3101.34] deserve to die, -[3101.92 --> 3102.74] taking the weight -[3102.74 --> 3103.78] of sin and misery -[3103.78 --> 3104.46] on his shoulders -[3104.46 --> 3105.22] to the grave. -[3106.52 --> 3107.00] But it's also -[3107.00 --> 3107.64] the understanding -[3107.64 --> 3108.44] that after three days -[3108.44 --> 3109.38] Jesus rose again -[3109.38 --> 3110.34] from the dead -[3110.34 --> 3111.64] and after he was witnessed -[3111.64 --> 3113.08] by about 500 people -[3113.08 --> 3113.60] or more, -[3113.66 --> 3114.52] he ascended to heaven -[3114.52 --> 3115.20] and is now seated -[3115.20 --> 3116.34] at the right hand -[3116.34 --> 3117.62] of God the Father -[3117.62 --> 3118.22] Almighty, -[3118.46 --> 3119.88] interceding on our behalf. -[3119.88 --> 3121.74] Now, -[3122.26 --> 3123.26] his people -[3123.26 --> 3124.80] are defined -[3124.80 --> 3125.64] differently. -[3126.52 --> 3127.26] There is neither -[3127.26 --> 3128.84] Jew nor Greek, -[3129.22 --> 3129.64] there is neither -[3129.64 --> 3130.70] slave nor free, -[3130.82 --> 3131.24] there is neither -[3131.24 --> 3132.26] male nor female, -[3132.42 --> 3133.22] for all -[3133.22 --> 3134.24] of us -[3134.24 --> 3135.14] are united -[3135.14 --> 3135.92] as one -[3135.92 --> 3136.94] in Christ -[3136.94 --> 3137.70] Jesus. -[3141.26 --> 3142.24] Our source -[3142.24 --> 3142.72] is Jesus. -[3143.82 --> 3144.20] Unity -[3144.20 --> 3144.72] is found -[3144.72 --> 3145.16] in him. -[3145.16 --> 3146.78] That is why -[3146.78 --> 3147.16] when Jesus -[3147.16 --> 3147.76] comes again -[3147.76 --> 3148.10] we're given -[3148.10 --> 3149.18] this picture -[3149.18 --> 3149.92] of eternity -[3149.92 --> 3150.58] that we read -[3150.58 --> 3151.56] in Revelation 7 -[3151.56 --> 3152.82] where it says, -[3153.08 --> 3153.62] after I looked, -[3153.68 --> 3154.68] this is John's vision -[3154.68 --> 3155.70] but it's for all of us, -[3155.94 --> 3157.40] after this I looked -[3157.40 --> 3158.78] and there before me -[3158.78 --> 3159.70] was a great multitude -[3159.70 --> 3160.98] that no one could count -[3160.98 --> 3163.10] from every nation, -[3163.84 --> 3164.42] tribe, -[3164.84 --> 3165.26] people, -[3165.50 --> 3166.34] and language -[3166.34 --> 3168.10] standing before the throne -[3168.10 --> 3169.18] and before the Lamb. -[3169.84 --> 3170.48] They were wearing -[3170.48 --> 3171.18] white robes -[3171.18 --> 3171.64] and were holding -[3171.64 --> 3172.40] palm branches -[3172.40 --> 3172.92] in their hand -[3172.92 --> 3173.60] and they cried out -[3173.60 --> 3174.36] in a loud voice, -[3174.76 --> 3176.42] salvation belongs -[3176.42 --> 3177.52] to our God -[3177.52 --> 3179.02] who sits on the throne -[3179.02 --> 3180.48] and to the Lamb. -[3181.68 --> 3181.94] See, -[3182.34 --> 3183.34] much like this vision -[3183.34 --> 3184.14] that Peter had -[3184.14 --> 3184.76] with the sheep -[3184.76 --> 3185.60] and the animals -[3185.60 --> 3186.64] in Acts 10, -[3186.96 --> 3187.96] Revelation 7 -[3187.96 --> 3189.02] is our vision. -[3190.58 --> 3191.62] That's the vision -[3191.62 --> 3192.20] for us. -[3192.98 --> 3193.92] This positive -[3193.92 --> 3195.04] theological vision -[3195.04 --> 3195.80] of life together -[3195.80 --> 3197.08] is that all people -[3197.08 --> 3198.48] from every tribe -[3198.48 --> 3199.10] and nation -[3199.10 --> 3200.00] and tongue -[3200.00 --> 3201.10] will join together -[3201.10 --> 3202.34] and worship God -[3202.34 --> 3203.72] and that's -[3203.72 --> 3204.56] the second point -[3204.56 --> 3206.70] that this unity -[3206.70 --> 3207.24] in Christ -[3207.24 --> 3208.16] is for all people, -[3208.76 --> 3209.66] for all nations. -[3210.48 --> 3210.82] In Acts, -[3210.90 --> 3211.62] the story is about -[3211.62 --> 3212.36] Jew and Gentile -[3212.36 --> 3212.76] but remember, -[3212.88 --> 3213.52] Gentile is just -[3213.52 --> 3214.40] everyone who's not a Jew. -[3215.36 --> 3215.88] So the story -[3215.88 --> 3216.58] of Jesus' life, -[3216.68 --> 3216.80] death, -[3216.84 --> 3217.36] and resurrection -[3217.36 --> 3219.06] is not an isolated gospel. -[3219.62 --> 3220.12] It's meant -[3220.12 --> 3220.96] for all the world. -[3222.54 --> 3223.14] In Acts 10, -[3223.24 --> 3223.76] Peter asks, -[3224.02 --> 3224.72] is this true -[3224.72 --> 3225.58] for Gentiles? -[3226.14 --> 3226.80] And he finds out, -[3226.86 --> 3227.52] yeah, it is. -[3228.14 --> 3229.14] And then in Acts 15, -[3229.20 --> 3229.70] they're still kind of -[3229.70 --> 3230.28] figuring it out. -[3230.34 --> 3230.52] They're like, -[3230.56 --> 3230.68] okay, -[3230.72 --> 3231.60] it's for the Gentiles, -[3231.60 --> 3231.92] sure, -[3232.28 --> 3232.98] but they have to be -[3232.98 --> 3233.70] like us, right? -[3234.72 --> 3235.60] And then as they discuss, -[3235.70 --> 3236.08] they conclude, -[3236.16 --> 3236.88] no, they don't. -[3237.40 --> 3237.68] Actually, -[3237.76 --> 3238.20] God's people -[3238.20 --> 3239.28] are defined differently now. -[3239.82 --> 3240.62] And then in Revelation -[3240.62 --> 3241.52] and John's vision, -[3241.82 --> 3242.68] it highlights for us -[3242.68 --> 3245.50] that this is for everyone. -[3245.94 --> 3246.82] We know that salvation -[3246.82 --> 3247.80] is for every race, -[3248.06 --> 3248.66] every nation, -[3248.80 --> 3249.32] every tongue, -[3249.62 --> 3250.38] every tribe. -[3251.56 --> 3252.60] Like I said off the top, -[3252.84 --> 3254.54] I am seeing this in seminary. -[3255.12 --> 3256.34] It's a beautiful picture. -[3256.46 --> 3257.96] People from all over the world -[3257.96 --> 3260.12] studying and worshiping together -[3260.12 --> 3261.76] and theologizing, -[3261.92 --> 3263.04] which I learned is a real word, -[3263.14 --> 3263.82] in seminary, -[3263.94 --> 3264.58] so it's working. -[3265.62 --> 3267.12] Being the church of God -[3267.12 --> 3268.70] in all corners of the world -[3268.70 --> 3269.90] is happening. -[3270.94 --> 3272.66] It's a beautiful picture -[3272.66 --> 3273.48] of God's people -[3273.48 --> 3274.58] rooted in Christ -[3274.58 --> 3276.28] from across the globe. -[3279.86 --> 3281.02] Now, I've heard this said, -[3281.06 --> 3281.84] and some will say, -[3281.90 --> 3282.98] that the church is united -[3282.98 --> 3284.60] despite its diversity. -[3284.60 --> 3286.40] But it's not true. -[3287.68 --> 3289.02] No, the church is united -[3289.02 --> 3290.50] because of its diversity. -[3292.52 --> 3294.30] And because that's the reality -[3294.30 --> 3294.86] of the church -[3294.86 --> 3295.38] that's painted -[3295.38 --> 3296.30] in the word of God, -[3297.30 --> 3298.68] churches thrive -[3298.68 --> 3300.08] when they are made up -[3300.08 --> 3300.76] of all nations. -[3302.84 --> 3304.06] So then the question becomes, -[3304.16 --> 3304.80] what about the church -[3304.80 --> 3305.34] in Langley -[3305.34 --> 3307.74] in Canada in 2024? -[3307.90 --> 3308.40] Or more honed in, -[3308.42 --> 3309.26] what does it mean for here? -[3309.26 --> 3309.50] Now, -[3311.90 --> 3313.86] I'm going to invite you -[3313.86 --> 3315.10] to bring your guard down -[3315.10 --> 3315.96] for just a second. -[3316.76 --> 3316.96] All right? -[3317.00 --> 3317.64] It's possible -[3317.64 --> 3318.58] what I'm about to say -[3318.58 --> 3319.64] might bristle a touch, -[3320.22 --> 3320.80] but I'm praying -[3320.80 --> 3321.52] for the Holy Spirit -[3321.52 --> 3322.48] to massage our hearts -[3322.48 --> 3323.30] and really hear -[3323.30 --> 3324.56] what He is trying to say -[3324.56 --> 3325.44] to us today here. -[3325.62 --> 3326.94] So just prayerfully -[3326.94 --> 3328.24] give the following -[3328.24 --> 3328.80] some thought. -[3329.98 --> 3330.18] All right? -[3330.22 --> 3331.58] The CRC as a whole -[3331.58 --> 3332.60] is often viewed -[3332.60 --> 3333.22] or described -[3333.22 --> 3334.74] as a Dutch church. -[3335.36 --> 3336.60] There's very good reasons -[3336.60 --> 3337.12] for this. -[3337.12 --> 3338.76] Because the CRC -[3338.76 --> 3339.52] in North America -[3339.52 --> 3340.24] was started -[3340.24 --> 3341.26] by Dutch immigrants. -[3342.00 --> 3342.46] Last year, -[3342.50 --> 3344.64] I took a course CRC history -[3344.64 --> 3345.36] and the stories -[3345.36 --> 3346.28] of the Dutch immigrants -[3346.28 --> 3347.40] and how they started -[3347.40 --> 3348.46] this church are amazing. -[3348.58 --> 3349.28] It's fascinating. -[3349.38 --> 3350.46] The history is worth -[3350.46 --> 3351.52] digging into. -[3351.66 --> 3353.12] People like Van Ralt -[3353.12 --> 3354.04] and Hahn -[3354.04 --> 3354.96] and Boer -[3354.96 --> 3355.90] and many others -[3355.90 --> 3357.34] did some amazing things. -[3358.52 --> 3359.56] And we can remember -[3359.56 --> 3360.74] and celebrate -[3360.74 --> 3361.82] our history -[3361.82 --> 3363.28] and what defined -[3363.28 --> 3364.40] the denomination. -[3364.40 --> 3367.08] but remember -[3367.08 --> 3368.64] what defines us, -[3368.80 --> 3369.64] what we celebrate -[3369.64 --> 3371.06] that defines us -[3371.06 --> 3373.32] cannot divide us. -[3374.50 --> 3375.14] So yes, -[3375.26 --> 3376.26] the history of the CRC -[3376.26 --> 3376.68] was started -[3376.68 --> 3377.50] by Dutch immigrants -[3377.50 --> 3379.32] but we're not -[3379.32 --> 3380.20] a Dutch church. -[3381.66 --> 3383.18] We are the church. -[3383.96 --> 3385.32] The church universal. -[3386.00 --> 3386.66] When we speak -[3386.66 --> 3387.56] the Apostles' Creed -[3387.56 --> 3388.84] we say we believe -[3388.84 --> 3390.14] in one holy Catholic church -[3390.14 --> 3391.48] not one Dutch denomination. -[3391.48 --> 3395.74] it's one universal church. -[3396.32 --> 3397.54] We cannot operate -[3397.54 --> 3398.62] with the assumption -[3398.62 --> 3400.04] that we are a Dutch church -[3400.04 --> 3401.28] because the reality is -[3401.28 --> 3402.58] the CRCNA, -[3402.72 --> 3404.26] the CRC Church of North America -[3404.26 --> 3405.06] has expanded -[3405.06 --> 3406.18] far beyond the Netherlands. -[3407.46 --> 3408.70] My seminary experience -[3408.70 --> 3409.10] is proof. -[3409.38 --> 3410.26] Korean, Nigerian, -[3410.36 --> 3410.78] Guatemalan, -[3410.90 --> 3411.62] Brazilian, Chinese, -[3411.74 --> 3413.06] the CRC is growing -[3413.06 --> 3413.88] and that's wonderful. -[3415.50 --> 3416.40] But it's growing -[3416.40 --> 3418.26] because of its diversity. -[3418.26 --> 3420.80] not despite it. -[3423.22 --> 3424.00] And so can we remember -[3424.00 --> 3425.14] and celebrate our history -[3425.14 --> 3426.04] that defines us? -[3426.14 --> 3427.56] Yeah, of course we can. -[3428.18 --> 3429.48] But we should never -[3429.48 --> 3431.84] let the Dutchness -[3431.84 --> 3433.58] of our denomination -[3433.58 --> 3434.28] become something -[3434.28 --> 3435.44] that divides us -[3435.44 --> 3436.24] from others -[3436.24 --> 3437.14] especially guests -[3437.14 --> 3437.58] or others -[3437.58 --> 3439.22] entering into the fold. -[3439.34 --> 3440.20] That's what was happening -[3440.20 --> 3440.88] in our text. -[3441.82 --> 3442.84] The rules of food -[3442.84 --> 3443.64] and circumcision -[3443.64 --> 3444.80] once defined a people -[3444.80 --> 3446.18] but it was dividing them now. -[3447.00 --> 3448.86] The Dutchness of the CRC -[3448.86 --> 3450.48] once defines us -[3450.48 --> 3452.38] but it cannot divide us. -[3453.26 --> 3454.34] We can celebrate -[3454.34 --> 3455.52] but we cannot flaunt. -[3457.38 --> 3458.18] I know a lot of us -[3458.18 --> 3458.76] have heard the phrase -[3458.76 --> 3459.38] if you ain't Dutch -[3459.38 --> 3459.96] you ain't much. -[3460.42 --> 3462.14] That should never be spoken -[3462.14 --> 3462.72] in a church. -[3463.74 --> 3464.22] Ever. -[3465.60 --> 3466.48] And honestly -[3466.48 --> 3467.02] I'd be careful -[3467.02 --> 3467.78] using that anywhere -[3467.78 --> 3468.70] to be honest with you -[3468.70 --> 3470.60] because words -[3470.60 --> 3471.72] even in jest -[3471.72 --> 3473.44] divide -[3473.44 --> 3475.24] and they separate -[3475.24 --> 3476.84] they polarize. -[3478.44 --> 3479.58] And maybe it's more than that. -[3479.64 --> 3480.50] The songs we sing -[3480.50 --> 3481.48] the prayers we pray -[3481.48 --> 3482.32] the events we do -[3482.32 --> 3482.90] the hospitality -[3482.90 --> 3484.12] that we show -[3484.12 --> 3484.98] we cannot fall -[3484.98 --> 3486.26] into a trap -[3486.26 --> 3487.94] that we see in our text today -[3487.94 --> 3488.18] and think -[3488.18 --> 3489.44] we have to do things this way -[3489.44 --> 3491.04] because we're a Dutch church -[3491.04 --> 3493.52] or a Canadian church -[3493.52 --> 3495.68] or pick whatever word -[3495.68 --> 3496.30] you want to use -[3496.30 --> 3496.72] church. -[3497.60 --> 3498.76] No, we're the church. -[3501.38 --> 3502.34] We've got to be careful -[3502.34 --> 3504.12] with our national pride -[3504.12 --> 3505.98] when it comes to God's kingdom. -[3507.82 --> 3509.24] We are God's church -[3509.24 --> 3509.96] full stop. -[3512.32 --> 3513.84] So how do we as a church -[3513.84 --> 3514.92] here in Langley, B.C. -[3515.32 --> 3516.46] grow into the picture -[3516.46 --> 3517.36] of God's kingdom -[3517.36 --> 3519.42] that's found in Revelation 7? -[3519.74 --> 3520.60] The picture painted -[3520.60 --> 3521.38] by Peter -[3521.38 --> 3522.92] or by the story of Peter -[3522.92 --> 3523.74] here in Acts 10. -[3525.18 --> 3526.18] Well that's a question -[3526.18 --> 3527.14] that I'm going to invite you -[3527.14 --> 3527.98] to take home with you -[3527.98 --> 3529.54] and discuss around your tables -[3529.54 --> 3530.48] today after church. -[3530.48 --> 3532.50] And then speaking -[3532.50 --> 3533.24] of those tables -[3533.24 --> 3534.16] that's the third point. -[3535.50 --> 3536.72] Who is at your table? -[3539.50 --> 3541.04] Acts 10 focuses on food -[3541.04 --> 3542.58] and hospitality throughout -[3542.58 --> 3544.40] and so we'll end -[3544.40 --> 3545.10] with this question. -[3545.74 --> 3547.98] Who sits at your table? -[3549.82 --> 3550.54] See our world -[3550.54 --> 3551.60] likes to create boxes -[3551.60 --> 3553.36] and divide people -[3553.36 --> 3554.34] into categories. -[3554.56 --> 3555.90] Political lines -[3555.90 --> 3556.68] are drawn now -[3556.68 --> 3558.22] with thicker and thicker ink -[3558.22 --> 3558.86] these days -[3558.86 --> 3560.70] and social media algorithms. -[3561.22 --> 3562.26] They start sending us -[3562.26 --> 3563.78] to other like-minded people. -[3564.10 --> 3565.44] Echo chambers are formed -[3565.44 --> 3566.34] oftentimes without -[3566.34 --> 3567.52] us even realizing it -[3567.52 --> 3568.40] and we start hearing -[3568.40 --> 3569.16] the same messages, -[3569.38 --> 3570.08] the same opinions, -[3570.24 --> 3571.10] the same platforms -[3571.10 --> 3572.86] that we mostly align with -[3572.86 --> 3573.80] and then we start hearing -[3573.80 --> 3574.30] those messages -[3574.30 --> 3575.10] over and over again -[3575.10 --> 3575.82] louder and louder. -[3576.68 --> 3577.82] We're defined -[3577.82 --> 3578.98] and we're divided -[3578.98 --> 3580.64] into pockets of people -[3580.64 --> 3581.96] who think and act the same. -[3581.96 --> 3583.80] Ironically, -[3584.46 --> 3585.48] individualism, -[3585.60 --> 3586.44] the pursuit -[3586.44 --> 3587.60] and celebration -[3587.60 --> 3588.46] of what makes you, -[3588.58 --> 3588.90] you, -[3589.70 --> 3590.70] and echo chambers, -[3590.88 --> 3592.02] places where individuals -[3592.02 --> 3593.10] like you are just joined -[3593.10 --> 3593.88] with other individuals -[3593.88 --> 3594.78] like you, -[3595.46 --> 3596.32] work in tandem -[3596.32 --> 3598.54] to define who you are. -[3599.60 --> 3600.80] And it affects a lot of things, -[3600.84 --> 3601.92] even how you read -[3601.92 --> 3602.82] and apply the Bible. -[3604.98 --> 3606.48] There's an African pastor -[3606.48 --> 3607.96] named Conrad Mbuie -[3607.96 --> 3609.60] and he says this -[3609.60 --> 3611.04] regarding bringing the word -[3611.04 --> 3612.86] to his church in Africa. -[3613.54 --> 3614.26] He says, -[3614.54 --> 3616.60] I'm not trying to make -[3616.60 --> 3617.64] the Bible more African. -[3618.66 --> 3619.70] I'm trying to get -[3619.70 --> 3620.60] the church in Africa -[3620.60 --> 3621.92] to be more biblical. -[3623.46 --> 3624.18] Our unity -[3624.18 --> 3626.28] as God's family, -[3626.40 --> 3626.82] the church, -[3626.96 --> 3628.16] is our greatest witness -[3628.16 --> 3628.96] to unbelievers. -[3631.10 --> 3632.06] North American churches -[3632.06 --> 3632.58] should be preaching -[3632.58 --> 3633.36] the same message, -[3633.82 --> 3635.02] becoming more biblical, -[3635.96 --> 3637.16] not more Canadian biblical -[3637.16 --> 3638.32] or more Dutch biblical, -[3638.62 --> 3639.76] but becoming more biblical -[3639.76 --> 3642.44] unites us all -[3642.44 --> 3643.70] because the church, -[3644.68 --> 3645.48] man, the church, -[3645.80 --> 3646.80] the church is different. -[3647.66 --> 3649.60] It's diverse yet unified -[3649.60 --> 3650.34] under Christ. -[3650.48 --> 3651.38] We disagree, -[3651.94 --> 3653.16] but we worship together. -[3653.74 --> 3655.44] We discuss and debate -[3655.44 --> 3656.36] and hold councils -[3656.36 --> 3657.62] and synods and meetings -[3657.62 --> 3658.96] and we don't always agree, -[3659.70 --> 3661.06] but we read the same word -[3661.06 --> 3662.18] and we pray together -[3662.18 --> 3663.66] and we pray to the same God -[3663.66 --> 3664.90] and we are unified -[3664.90 --> 3665.86] despite our differences. -[3665.86 --> 3667.12] It's fascinating -[3667.12 --> 3668.42] what the church is. -[3669.30 --> 3669.72] Look around. -[3669.84 --> 3670.60] Look around right now -[3670.60 --> 3671.02] at the sanctuary. -[3671.14 --> 3671.74] Look at other people. -[3671.84 --> 3672.40] Make some awkward -[3672.40 --> 3673.26] eye contact here. -[3673.74 --> 3674.70] There are young people -[3674.70 --> 3675.56] and old people here. -[3675.92 --> 3676.82] There are people you know -[3676.82 --> 3677.68] and people you don't. -[3677.98 --> 3679.30] There are new Christians here -[3679.30 --> 3680.70] and there are lifelong believers -[3680.70 --> 3681.88] here in this room. -[3682.12 --> 3683.90] There's politically conservative people -[3683.90 --> 3685.08] and politically liberal. -[3685.36 --> 3686.10] There's traditional -[3686.10 --> 3687.48] and there's contemporary. -[3687.70 --> 3688.72] There's Oilers fans -[3688.72 --> 3689.88] and there's Canucks fans. -[3690.00 --> 3690.74] We're all here. -[3690.74 --> 3694.68] You're listening right now -[3694.68 --> 3696.88] to the same flawed youth pastor -[3696.88 --> 3698.40] yammer on up here -[3698.40 --> 3700.20] no matter how your last week went. -[3701.34 --> 3702.42] We're all singing -[3702.42 --> 3703.86] the same worship songs -[3703.86 --> 3705.62] no matter what our opinions are -[3705.62 --> 3706.68] on the various political -[3706.68 --> 3707.88] electoral things -[3707.88 --> 3708.54] that are coming up. -[3709.64 --> 3710.66] We're all going to go drink -[3710.66 --> 3712.58] the same old coffee -[3712.58 --> 3714.62] and enjoy some good old fashioned -[3714.62 --> 3715.20] koinonia, -[3715.52 --> 3716.52] shout out to an old sermon, -[3716.84 --> 3718.88] no matter what our heritage is, -[3718.88 --> 3721.66] no matter what our Sunday traditions are. -[3722.58 --> 3723.22] Look around. -[3724.58 --> 3725.18] Do it. -[3725.22 --> 3725.66] Look around. -[3726.66 --> 3728.18] We all have different stories. -[3728.94 --> 3730.34] We all have different stories -[3730.34 --> 3731.22] of why we're here. -[3732.60 --> 3733.00] And yet, -[3733.28 --> 3735.00] within those different stories, -[3735.48 --> 3736.66] we are connected -[3736.66 --> 3739.34] to the one true story. -[3740.14 --> 3742.50] The one true redemption story -[3742.50 --> 3744.02] that God has been authoring -[3744.02 --> 3745.80] and directing since the dawn of time. -[3747.16 --> 3748.00] Different stories -[3748.00 --> 3749.44] gets grafted into one story. -[3750.20 --> 3751.76] We're united in our diversity. -[3752.76 --> 3754.70] What's compelling about the church, -[3754.78 --> 3756.36] what's so compelling about the church -[3756.36 --> 3758.44] is that we are all different people -[3758.44 --> 3759.54] with different stories -[3759.54 --> 3760.54] and different ideas -[3760.54 --> 3761.60] and different perspectives -[3761.60 --> 3762.66] on different things. -[3763.34 --> 3763.66] And yet, -[3763.76 --> 3764.86] despite all of the different, -[3765.70 --> 3769.20] we are united in Christ. -[3770.50 --> 3772.58] We can praise God for that truth. -[3772.58 --> 3775.82] And so as you go from this place, -[3776.34 --> 3778.58] who comes to your table? -[3778.64 --> 3779.36] Who's at your table? -[3780.46 --> 3781.58] Does the company we keep -[3781.58 --> 3783.36] represent the kingdom of God -[3783.36 --> 3784.32] as laid out for us -[3784.32 --> 3785.10] in Acts 10, -[3785.80 --> 3786.62] in Acts 15, -[3786.94 --> 3787.92] in Revelation 7? -[3788.44 --> 3791.06] We're united in Christ. -[3791.94 --> 3793.32] Let's be united in Christ. -[3793.62 --> 3793.82] Amen? -[3795.08 --> 3795.68] Let's pray. -[3795.68 --> 3800.88] Father in heaven, -[3802.02 --> 3802.92] Savior in spirit, -[3803.12 --> 3803.30] God, -[3803.66 --> 3805.16] we come to you today -[3805.16 --> 3808.38] as the church, -[3809.58 --> 3811.32] united under the truth -[3811.32 --> 3812.14] of Jesus, -[3812.28 --> 3812.68] your life, -[3812.78 --> 3813.10] your death, -[3813.18 --> 3813.86] your resurrection, -[3814.00 --> 3814.96] your ascension into heaven. -[3817.36 --> 3817.62] And Lord, -[3817.68 --> 3818.44] the world we live in -[3818.44 --> 3819.14] is not united. -[3819.64 --> 3819.78] God, -[3819.82 --> 3821.66] we live in a very polarized world. -[3822.54 --> 3823.76] Opinions fly around, -[3823.76 --> 3825.36] arguments happen everywhere, -[3825.68 --> 3826.54] in person, -[3826.82 --> 3827.36] online, -[3827.48 --> 3828.38] all over the place. -[3828.56 --> 3829.94] And it is easy to slip -[3829.94 --> 3832.28] into a polarized culture -[3832.28 --> 3833.48] that exists around us. -[3834.02 --> 3834.58] But God, -[3835.56 --> 3836.78] you unite. -[3838.96 --> 3841.12] Every race, -[3842.28 --> 3844.68] every person -[3844.68 --> 3847.06] can come to know you -[3847.06 --> 3848.96] through the power of your spirit. -[3849.66 --> 3850.04] And so God, -[3850.10 --> 3852.18] we pray for the church global. -[3852.18 --> 3853.24] We pray for the churches -[3853.24 --> 3854.58] in Africa, -[3854.76 --> 3855.56] in South America, -[3855.72 --> 3856.30] in Asia, -[3856.46 --> 3856.66] God, -[3856.70 --> 3857.70] all over the world -[3857.70 --> 3860.38] in all the work -[3860.38 --> 3860.96] that they're doing. -[3861.40 --> 3861.52] Lord, -[3861.54 --> 3862.86] may we join with them. -[3863.12 --> 3863.20] Lord, -[3863.26 --> 3863.88] today's offering -[3863.88 --> 3865.92] was for our refugee chaplain -[3865.92 --> 3867.20] who's doing that kind of work -[3867.20 --> 3867.98] all over the world, -[3868.10 --> 3868.20] Lord. -[3868.40 --> 3869.76] We think of those missionaries -[3869.76 --> 3870.74] that we know and support. -[3871.26 --> 3871.46] God, -[3871.56 --> 3873.34] we are your hands and feet -[3873.34 --> 3874.12] all over the world. -[3875.36 --> 3876.56] May we live -[3876.56 --> 3877.68] how you call us to live -[3877.68 --> 3878.42] here in Langley -[3878.42 --> 3880.14] and may we open our doors -[3880.14 --> 3881.10] to the world. -[3881.10 --> 3884.38] and preach this good news -[3884.38 --> 3886.02] to those around us. -[3886.16 --> 3886.32] Lord, -[3886.38 --> 3887.12] we live in a culture -[3887.12 --> 3888.54] where you call us -[3888.54 --> 3889.42] to go to all nations, -[3889.56 --> 3889.64] Lord, -[3889.68 --> 3890.34] but we live in a culture -[3890.34 --> 3890.88] where all nations -[3890.88 --> 3891.54] are coming to us. -[3893.16 --> 3894.08] May we be bold -[3894.08 --> 3895.98] in proclaiming your name -[3895.98 --> 3896.50] as Lord. -[3897.84 --> 3898.58] We pray this -[3898.58 --> 3899.16] in your name. -[3899.76 --> 3899.96] Amen. -[3899.96 --> 3900.06] Amen. -[3904.64 --> 3905.26] Please rise -[3905.26 --> 3906.12] as we respond in song. -[3906.12 --> 3923.58] A church's one foundation -[3923.58 --> 3926.40] is Jesus Christ, -[3926.40 --> 3928.08] our Lord. -[3928.08 --> 3928.82] Lord, -[3928.82 --> 3932.44] He is His new creation -[3932.44 --> 3936.90] by water and the word. -[3937.50 --> 3939.90] From Him He came -[3939.90 --> 3941.94] and sought her -[3941.94 --> 3946.04] to be His holy bride. -[3946.60 --> 3948.98] With His own blood -[3948.98 --> 3951.04] He bought her -[3951.04 --> 3955.94] and for her life He died. -[3955.94 --> 3961.68] He left from every nation -[3961.68 --> 3966.14] yet one o'er all the earth -[3966.14 --> 3970.80] her charge of salvation -[3970.80 --> 3972.60] one Lord, -[3972.72 --> 3973.74] one faith, -[3973.86 --> 3975.70] one birth -[3975.70 --> 3978.64] one holy name -[3978.64 --> 3980.98] She blesses -[3980.98 --> 3982.48] partakes -[3982.48 --> 3985.18] one holy food -[3985.18 --> 3988.14] and to an hope -[3988.14 --> 3990.10] she presses -[3990.10 --> 3993.34] with every grace -[3993.34 --> 3995.38] and hope -[3995.38 --> 4001.34] His God and tribulation -[4001.34 --> 4006.22] and tumult of her war -[4006.22 --> 4011.14] She wakes the consummation -[4011.14 --> 4012.66] of peace -[4012.66 --> 4015.22] forevermore -[4015.22 --> 4020.22] Till His vision glorious -[4020.22 --> 4025.48] and all in eyes are blessed -[4025.48 --> 4030.46] Then the great church victorious -[4030.46 --> 4033.82] shall be the church -[4033.82 --> 4035.62] and rest -[4035.62 --> 4037.84] shall be the church -[4037.84 --> 4038.62] and rest -[4038.62 --> 4045.06] Speaking of diversity -[4045.06 --> 4045.54] in the church -[4045.54 --> 4046.10] he's going to hate -[4046.10 --> 4046.78] that I'm doing this -[4046.78 --> 4047.96] but we have a guitar player -[4047.96 --> 4049.04] who just played the piano -[4049.04 --> 4049.90] in a church service -[4049.90 --> 4050.60] for the first time -[4050.60 --> 4051.92] since he was in grade 6 -[4051.92 --> 4053.38] Isn't that something? -[4054.76 --> 4055.46] Look at that -[4055.46 --> 4057.94] If you go from this place -[4057.94 --> 4058.76] please enjoy some -[4058.76 --> 4059.92] koinonia in the foyer -[4059.92 --> 4061.86] have some fellowship -[4061.86 --> 4062.64] with one another -[4062.64 --> 4063.66] and let's remember -[4063.66 --> 4064.36] that this church -[4064.36 --> 4065.16] that we are a part of -[4065.16 --> 4065.54] is -[4065.54 --> 4066.70] yes Langley -[4066.70 --> 4067.06] Emmanuel -[4067.06 --> 4067.52] C.R.C. -[4067.52 --> 4068.14] but we are part -[4068.14 --> 4068.98] of a global -[4068.98 --> 4070.42] universal church -[4070.42 --> 4071.22] everywhere -[4071.22 --> 4072.54] Please hear these -[4072.54 --> 4074.18] the priestly blessing -[4074.18 --> 4074.80] here found -[4074.80 --> 4075.96] in number 6 -[4075.96 --> 4077.56] The Lord bless you -[4077.56 --> 4078.52] and keep you -[4078.52 --> 4079.82] The Lord make His face -[4079.82 --> 4080.62] shine on you -[4080.62 --> 4081.76] and be gracious to you -[4081.76 --> 4083.42] The Lord turn His face -[4083.42 --> 4084.20] toward you -[4084.20 --> 4085.30] and give you -[4085.30 --> 4086.16] peace -[4086.16 --> 4087.62] and all of God's people -[4087.62 --> 4087.94] said -[4087.94 --> 4089.92] Amen -[4089.92 --> 4090.34] vie -[4090.34 --> 4103.42] Che visibility -[4103.42 --> 4105.46] in being -[4105.46 --> 4114.20] how we are -[4114.20 --> 4116.64] Our God -[4116.64 --> 4122.78] Who sits upon the throne -[4122.78 --> 4128.90] And unto the Lamb -[4128.90 --> 4134.16] Praise and glory, wisdom and grace -[4134.16 --> 4139.40] Honor and power and praise -[4139.40 --> 4145.00] Me to our God forever and ever -[4145.00 --> 4150.38] Me to our God forever and ever -[4150.38 --> 4155.00] Me to our God forever and ever -[4155.56 --> 4157.00] Amen -[4157.00 --> 4165.00] And we shall be strong -[4166.04 --> 4171.00] In purpose and unity -[4171.00 --> 4175.38] Declaring aloud -[4175.38 --> 4182.34] Praise and glory, wisdom and grace -[4182.34 --> 4187.00] Honor and power and praise -[4187.00 --> 4192.38] Me to our God forever and ever -[4192.38 --> 4198.00] Me to our God forever and ever -[4198.00 --> 4203.38] Me to our God forever and ever -[4203.38 --> 4205.38] Amen -[4205.38 --> 4210.76] Be to our God forever and ever -[4210.76 --> 4213.76] Amen -[4213.76 --> 4219.76] Be to our God forever and ever -[4219.76 --> 4224.76] Be to our God forever and ever -[4224.76 --> 4225.76] Amen -[4225.76 --> 4231.14] Amen -[4231.14 --> 4235.14] Be to our God forever and ever -[4235.14 --> 4240.14] Be to our God forever and ever -[4240.14 --> 4245.14] Be to our God forever and ever -[4245.14 --> 4246.14] Amen -[4246.14 --> 4262.40] mascots -[4262.40 --> 4264.40] Amen -[4266.64 --> 4267.00] Amen -[4267.18 --> 4267.58] Amen -[4267.58 --> 4267.60] Amen -[4267.60 --> 4297.58] Thank you. -[4297.60 --> 4327.58] Thank you. -[4327.60 --> 4329.60] Thank you. -[4357.60 --> 4359.60] Thank you. -[4387.60 --> 4389.60] Thank you. -[4417.60 --> 4419.60] Thank you. -[4447.60 --> 4449.60] Thank you. -[4477.60 --> 4479.60] Thank you. -[4507.60 --> 4509.60] Thank you. -[4537.60 --> 4539.60] Thank you. -[4567.60 --> 4569.60] Thank you. -[4597.60 --> 4599.60] Thank you. -[4627.60 --> 4629.60] Thank you. -[4657.60 --> 4659.60] Thank you. -[4687.60 --> 4689.60] Thank you. -[4717.60 --> 4719.60] Thank you. -[4747.60 --> 4749.60] Thank you. -[4777.60 --> 4779.60] Thank you. -[4807.60 --> 4809.60] Thank you. -[4837.60 --> 4839.60] Thank you. -[4867.60 --> 4869.60] Thank you. -[4897.60 --> 4899.60] Thank you. -[4927.60 --> 4929.60] Thank you. -[4957.60 --> 4959.60] Thank you. -[4987.60 --> 4989.60] Thank you. -[5017.60 --> 5019.60] Thank you. -[5047.60 --> 5049.60] Thank you. -[5077.60 --> 5079.60] Thank you. -[5107.60 --> 5109.60] Thank you. -[5137.60 --> 5139.60] Thank you. -[5167.60 --> 5169.60] Thank you. -[5197.60 --> 5199.60] Thank you. -[5227.60 --> 5229.60] Thank you. -[5257.60 --> 5259.60] Thank you. -[5287.60 --> 5289.60] Thank you. -[5317.60 --> 5319.60] Thank you. -[5347.60 --> 5349.60] Thank you. -[5377.60 --> 5379.60] Thank you. -[5407.60 --> 5409.60] Thank you. -[5437.60 --> 5439.60] Thank you. -[5467.60 --> 5469.60] Thank you. -[5497.60 --> 5499.60] Thank you. -[5527.60 --> 5529.60] Thank you. -[5557.60 --> 5559.60] Thank you. -[5587.60 --> 5589.60] Thank you. -[5589.60 --> 5591.60] Thank you. -[5591.60 --> 5593.60] Thank you. -[5593.60 --> 5595.60] Thank you. -[5595.60 --> 5597.60] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 1, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 1, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6b6a99fbc43e3f751de8cd4202bd6fa552cec299..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 1, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,81 +0,0 @@ -• Baptism of Lucas Smid -• Announcements for upcoming events: - + Youth coffee after church - + Tri Soup Tournament at 5 p.m. - + Annual General Meeting at 6 p.m. - + Christianity Explored class on December 4 - + Youth Christmas party and competition on December 7 - + HCBC Adult Education Group meeting on December 8 - + O Come Emmanuel Christmas Eve carol and hymns evening on December 15 -• Reminders: - + Stack chairs, move tables for AGM setup - + Sign up readers for December 15 service - + Worship service at Sunridge Gardens on Saturday -• The Holy Spirit's presence and power -• Lighting of the Advent Candle -• Use of prayers from the Gelatian Sacramentary -• Themes of hope, peace, joy, and love in Advent worship -• Invitation to stand for singing -• Reading of a prayer for Advent -• Confession and acknowledging burnout -• Discussion of the importance of Advent season for Christians -• Reflection on taking waiting and preparation seriously during Advent -• Acknowledgement of chaos and challenges in life and the need to focus on hope in Jesus -• Reference to God's presence and love in times of difficulty and fear -• Discussion of baptism as a symbol of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection -• Explanation of infant baptism as part of the covenant between God and Abraham -• Introduction of Lucas Smid, who is about to be baptized -• The triune God's adoption and new identity in Christ is marked by baptism, as seen in Acts 2:39 -• Baptism is a sign of inclusion in God's covenant community and obedience to Christ's command -• Adam and Rachel, Lucas' parents, are asked if they believe their children should be baptized due to their sinful nature and if they promise to instruct Lucas in the Christian faith -• The congregation is invited to participate in the ceremony by standing and responding with "we do with God's help" -• Lucas is baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit -• The congregation promises to love, encourage, and support Adam, Rachel, and Lucas as members of their church family -• A blessing is prayed over Lucas, and he is presented as a covenant child -• Lucas' baptism -• Invitation to participate in prayer for Lucas -• Paul Hummelman invited to lead a prayer -• Prayer for Lucas' spiritual growth and development as a disciple of Jesus Christ -• Blessing for Adam, Rachel, and the church through Lucas -• Worship service continues with singing a song -• Discussion of a church's budget shortfall -• Invitation to give donations to support the church's ministries -• Introduction to Diaconal Ministries and its work with CRC churches -• Kids Corner segment where children are invited to come up for discussion -• Story about the Saudi Arabian Desert in preparation for children's worship time -• Congregational prayer led by an elder -• Update on Linda Rook's cancer diagnosis and upcoming surgery -• Prayer requests for various individuals, including Clary Closteroff's father, Ashley, Mary Feitzma, Neil and Linda Rook, and those unable to attend church physically -• Reading of Isaiah 9:2-7 -• Discussion of the passage from Isaiah 9 and its significance -• The speaker discusses how some people depersonalize God, viewing Him as a force or energy rather than a personal being with desires and emotions. -• This depersonalization leads to a focus on personal happiness and fulfillment, often at the expense of spiritual growth and connection with God. -• The speaker argues that this approach fails to satisfy our deep longing for something more, and we are left trying to fill the void with temporary things and experiences. -• In contrast, a personal God with a plan and purpose offers peace, justice, and righteousness, which is not just the absence of conflict but wholeness and fullness of life in relationship with God and others. -• The concepts of justice and righteousness were originally economic terms, emphasizing equality of opportunity and fair treatment -• In the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament, justice and righteousness are often used together to describe a system of communal support and fairness -• The New Testament has introduced theological categories that have overshadowed the original meaning, with some Christians using these terms as "Christianese" without fully understanding their significance -• Justice and righteousness were originally about more than just salvation and atonement; they encompass a broader concept of humanity living in community, created for God and one another, and expressing God's design -• The promise of Christmas is about peace, justice, justification, and righteousness as gifts by grace to those who believe, and also as realities that flow out from this relationship with God to the world around us -• As followers of Jesus, we are called to pursue justice, stand against injustice, and work towards a more just society in big and small ways -• The Lord's zeal is an intense feeling of commitment and devotion, which motivates him to act on behalf of those he loves -• The Bible describes God's zeal as his intense devotion to and love for his people, why he saves them, defends them, rescues them, vindicates them, fulfills promises to them -• Zeal is a key attribute of God's character, closely tied to his honor and glory -• In the Old Testament, God's jealousy and zealousness are often mentioned as one and the same, with the root in Hebrew meaning "ardent love" -• The Bible emphasizes that God's zeal for his people burns brightly in his face, and he will not give his glory to another -• God's wrath against sin is an affront to his honor, but this also drives his pursuit of his people and his commitment to their salvation -• God's commitment to his own character and being is on the line when it comes to keeping his promises and fulfilling his plans for humanity -• This means that God's zeal for his glory is for human good, and his love and holiness are not contradictory but complementary aspects of his nature. -• The speaker discusses God's plan and purpose in the midst of chaos and uncertainty. -• The idea that God has a plan and it is good, even when circumstances seem meaningless or difficult. -• The concept of "the zeal of God" and how it drives His actions, including sending Jesus to earth as a baby king. -• The application of Isaiah 9:2-7 to Jesus Christ, highlighting the significance of Christmas. -• The importance of understanding that God's jealousy for His people is what makes salvation possible. -• A call to live with zeal for God's love and glory, rather than just going through the motions. -• Worship service with hymns and songs -• Invitation to hang out after worship for fellowship and refreshments -• Invitation to meet someone for prayer -• Congratulation of Adam and Rachel on their twins -• Reminder to stack chairs and help set up tables for the night -• Blessing from the pastor, including a prayer and dismissal -• Repeated expressions of gratitude. \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 1, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 1, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 00015013717adafdeebbd03d4c2e75c777acc47f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 1, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,957 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 8.18] Welcome to church this morning. A special welcome if you are a guest with us this morning. We're -[8.18 --> 16.50] super excited to have you worship with us on this first Sunday of Advent where we jump into the -[16.50 --> 24.06] season of waiting and anticipating Christmas as well on this Sunday as we baptize Lucas Smid. -[24.30 --> 29.04] And so if you're here for that this morning, a special welcome to you as well. My name is Chris. -[29.04 --> 33.92] I'm one of the pastors here at Emanuel and it's my privilege to lead in our worship this morning -[33.92 --> 39.48] along with these others and a few who will come up later. Before we begin, we have just a couple -[39.48 --> 47.16] announcements to run through and I'm going to try to do them in order of when they happen so that we -[47.16 --> 56.84] can follow along. So today after church, youth coffee is happening and so if you are a youth, -[56.84 --> 62.66] you go to someone from church's house and have coffee and lunch and hang out there. Today, -[62.80 --> 68.00] that's at my house. So if you need to know where that is, talk to me or to my wife or any of my -[68.00 --> 72.64] family and they'll tell you how to get there. Sometime after church, head over that way and -[72.64 --> 82.44] we'll happily hang out and feed you there. This evening at 5 p.m., we're hosting the Tri Soup -[82.44 --> 89.88] Tournament in advance of our annual general meeting. And so the Tri Soup Tournament is an -[89.88 --> 95.52] opportunity for you if you're a member here to make your best soup and to bring it and then we -[95.52 --> 101.38] will all try the soup. Now you see where the name comes from. And then vote on our favorites and we'll -[101.38 --> 109.14] crown a king or queen at the end of the evening together. That begins at 5 p.m. -[109.14 --> 116.30] And our annual general meeting begins at 6 p.m. And so if you are a member here over 18, -[116.74 --> 122.84] we ask that you'd come and join us tonight so that we can see what God has been doing in our midst and -[122.84 --> 129.06] look forward to what he will do in the next ministry year as we present a budget to you. -[130.68 --> 137.30] Keeping moving through the calendar, on Wednesday, December 4, Christianity Explored class -[137.30 --> 143.36] is meeting again. Please note that's Wednesday this time, not Thursday. We're trying the Wednesday -[143.36 --> 150.64] shift and so we meet at 6 p.m. for dinner and 6 30 we start in our work together. So if you've been -[150.64 --> 153.78] attending that or if you're interested in that, talk to me, but I'll see you on Wednesday. -[156.60 --> 164.72] December 8th, no sorry, December 7, youth, you have your Christmas party and Christmas competition. -[164.72 --> 170.80] I trust you know what that's about because Kevin didn't give me any details, but that's December 7 -[170.80 --> 179.88] from 5 to 9 here at the church as well. And December 8th, HCBC and the Heidelberg Catechism -[179.88 --> 185.50] Adult Education Group is meeting that evening. And so talk to me about that. And lastly, -[186.22 --> 192.22] and I forgot to bring up my card, but lastly, on December 15, which is two weeks from today, -[192.22 --> 200.64] we are hosting an event that we're calling O Come Emmanuel. And it's a Christmas Eve carol and -[200.64 --> 208.24] Christmas hymns evening together where we will start at 6 p.m. We'll sing all of your favorite -[208.24 --> 213.74] Christmas carols and songs and then we'll have some time afterwards with some Christmas treats and hot -[213.74 --> 220.66] chocolate and goodies and the like. And so we want you to join us for that on December 15 at 6 p.m. -[220.66 --> 225.40] But also, this is a great thing to invite your family or your friends, your neighbors or your -[225.40 --> 230.18] co-workers to. And if that's something you're interested in doing, we have little postcards -[230.18 --> 235.16] at the back for the event that say, O Come Emmanuel. And then on the back, it says, -[235.24 --> 240.24] You're invited to and gives the details. At the Connect booth, you can grab one or two or four of -[240.24 --> 246.74] those to share with your friends, neighbors, co-workers, classmates, whomever, invite them out for that -[246.74 --> 257.30] evening. And then lastly, lastly, following our worship today, because we have the AGM this evening, -[257.60 --> 262.52] it'd be really helpful if we could stack some chairs, move them to the side, if we could pull -[262.52 --> 267.38] the tables out of the back and get that all set up. That way the council members don't have to show up -[267.38 --> 271.78] here at four to do all of that work, but you can help them do that work in preparation. -[271.78 --> 279.32] I think that's it for announcements this morning. Not quite. Oh, one more. Thank you. Thank you for -[279.32 --> 286.38] reminding me. For December 15, we are looking for some readers for that service, particularly -[286.38 --> 294.48] children, right? We want children who can do some reading for us. And if you are a capable reader, -[294.48 --> 301.20] and if you consider yourself to be a child, I'll leave it at that, talk to Jackie. Jackie, where are you? -[302.72 --> 309.86] Jackie? She's busy. Okay. Talk to Jackie, Hubertz, or Sarah, or myself, and we'll get you signed up -[309.86 --> 316.18] for that. Am I done now, Sarah? Yes? Okay. Thank you. Oh, one more. -[316.18 --> 324.68] Saturday, there's a worship service at Sunridge Gardens. Ken, you failed. Where are you? That's -[324.68 --> 331.12] normally your responsibility to tell me. On this coming Saturday at 2 p.m., there's a worship -[331.12 --> 338.40] service. My goodness, we are busy people. 2 p.m. at Sunridge Gardens up the hill, invite you to join -[338.40 --> 346.96] with the residents there for worship. Anyone else? Oh, last Friday, there was a women's event here. -[347.48 --> 351.98] Thank you to the organizers of that. There was over 130 people who came out to that evening, -[352.14 --> 355.84] and I hear by all accounts, it was fantastic. So thank you for that. -[360.12 --> 367.44] All right. I think I'm done now. We're going to stand together and be ushered into the presence of -[367.44 --> 375.08] God in worship. So I invite you, as you are able, to stand and to take a posture of receipt, perhaps, -[375.22 --> 382.32] in your heart, in your mind, even with your hands, and receive the greeting of our good God. Following -[382.32 --> 387.68] the greeting that I offer you, I invite you to turn to those around you and to welcome them into our -[387.68 --> 397.08] shared worship space this morning. Receive the greeting of our God. Grace, mercy, and peace to you. -[397.44 --> 403.58] From God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, Son, and our Savior, through the presence and power -[403.58 --> 406.12] of the Holy Spirit. Amen. -[427.44 --> 437.18] I invite you all to be seated for the lighting of the Advent Candle. -[437.18 --> 451.14] I invite you all to be seated for the lighting of the Advent Candle. -[451.14 --> 460.88] Good morning. -[460.88 --> 468.30] The prayers we use this Advent season have deep roots in the early Christian liturgical tradition, -[468.30 --> 477.00] particularly the Gelatian Sacramentary, a collection of prayers dating back to the 6th century. -[477.00 --> 483.74] This ancient text shaped much of the Western Church's worship, including the Advent prayers we now use, -[483.74 --> 491.24] reflecting themes of hope, peace, joy, and love as we await Christ's coming. -[493.24 --> 502.76] The Gelatian Sacramentary emphasizes the need for preparation, vigilance, and prayer as a church eagerly -[502.76 --> 509.50] anticipates the arrival of the Savior. These prayers are not just historical artifacts, -[509.50 --> 518.50] but living expressions of the church's ongoing longing for Christ, guiding our worship in this sacred season. -[518.50 --> 532.38] Advent begins with a call to hope as we prepare our hearts for Christ's coming. As we light the first candle, -[532.38 --> 539.12] we remember the ancient longing of God's people for a Savior. In a world that often feels dark, -[539.12 --> 547.12] this light is a sign of the hope we have in Christ, who will come to fulfill the promises of Scripture. -[547.12 --> 549.54] And here's the actual prayer. -[549.54 --> 551.28] Advent reminds us of the Lord. -[551.28 --> 558.24] Stir our hearts, O Lord, to prepare the way for your only Son, that we may serve you with purified minds. -[559.32 --> 565.80] Advent reminds us to wait with eager expectation for the fulfillment of God's promises. -[565.80 --> 579.54] Advent is a sign of the Lord. -[579.54 --> 582.72] I invite you to stand now as we start our worship and sing. -[582.72 --> 603.50] Advent is a sign of the Lord. -[603.50 --> 616.56] Come, the long-expected Jesus, born to set thy people free. -[616.56 --> 627.56] From our fears and sins release us, let us find our rest in thee. -[627.56 --> 638.56] Through the strength and consolation, O the holy earth thou art. -[638.98 --> 649.56] Dear desire of every nation, joy of every holy heart. -[649.56 --> 661.48] Born a people to deliver, born a children yet a king. -[662.02 --> 672.04] Born to reign in us forever, now thy gracious kingdom bring. -[672.04 --> 684.04] By thy whole eternal spirit, ruling all our hearts alone. -[684.04 --> 697.04] By thy all-sufficient land, praise us to thy glorious hope. -[697.04 --> 719.04] For thy holy name is virgin. -[723.32 --> 724.04] For thy holy name. -[724.04 --> 731.56] For all new Lord, you are the source of heaven's own water. -[733.96 --> 741.42] Jesus, life of the darkness, Jesus, truth in circumstance, -[741.42 --> 748.34] you are the source of heaven's own water. -[748.34 --> 758.16] In history, you're in the heart, you're all the change, you're all to life. -[758.58 --> 766.00] You are the hope, you're leading us, you are the rush, you're building trust, -[766.00 --> 772.78] you are the light, shining for all the world to see. -[772.78 --> 779.80] You rose from the dead, conquering fear, our grace and peace, -[779.80 --> 787.78] you're trying to steal, Jesus, our hope, living for all the world to see. -[787.78 --> 791.40] Don't we believe? -[798.78 --> 807.06] Jesus, hope of the nations, Jesus, comfort for all who be born, -[807.06 --> 812.64] you are the source of heaven's own water. -[814.64 --> 822.06] Jesus, life of the darkness, Jesus, truth in circumstance, -[822.06 --> 828.06] you are the source of heaven's own water. -[828.06 --> 838.06] You're mystery, you're in the heart, you're all the change, you're all to life. -[838.06 --> 846.22] You are the hope, you're leading us, you are the rush, you're the trust, -[846.22 --> 852.06] you are the light, shining for all the world to see. -[852.06 --> 882.04] Lord, we believe. -[882.06 --> 884.06] Lord, we believe. -[888.06 --> 890.22] Feel free to take a seat or stay standing. -[890.76 --> 891.98] I'm just going to read for a little bit. -[892.68 --> 897.06] I'm going to share a story of my own life for our confession insurance today. -[898.34 --> 902.16] You don't have to worry, it's not going to be as long as Pastor Chris's sermons. -[902.48 --> 902.96] I promise. -[905.04 --> 908.20] And I'm doing this in part because of the encouragement of my care group. -[908.20 --> 911.64] So if you have any complaints, you can direct them to Perry. -[911.64 --> 917.82] Jokes aside, the short of it is, I'm burnt out. -[918.64 --> 919.86] What do I mean by that? -[920.64 --> 924.44] I've been working and living far beyond my capacity for too long, -[924.84 --> 927.78] and that is showing up in my physical, mental, and emotional health. -[927.78 --> 935.04] But I think most importantly, my spiritual health is suffering because I have neglected my relationship with God. -[935.94 --> 939.80] I've done all the things that a good Christian should do, whatever that means. -[939.80 --> 947.08] But it's about my heart posture, which has led me to make choices that prevent me from resting in his presence, -[947.58 --> 949.84] resulting in my current state. -[951.76 --> 955.16] It's easy for me to blame that on my life situations. -[955.90 --> 958.90] I do shift work and don't sleep that well all the time. -[959.58 --> 962.04] The stress of being chronically short-staffed at work. -[962.58 --> 965.06] The emotional toll of tough things going on in life. -[965.06 --> 969.56] Not to minimize the impact of these things on me, -[970.24 --> 973.64] but when life gets busy, what ends up shrinking in my schedule, -[974.12 --> 977.72] if I'm being honest, is my quality heart-to-heart time with God. -[979.02 --> 983.36] Bible reading and prayer become task-oriented and purely intellectual, -[983.88 --> 988.18] rather than communing with my God and King, maker of heaven and earth. -[989.74 --> 992.56] Christmas is a notorious time for people to be busy, -[993.16 --> 994.52] and I am no exception. -[995.06 --> 998.44] But as Christians, we are in the season of Advent. -[999.36 --> 1004.12] Advent is a season of waiting, preparing for and anticipating the birth of Jesus. -[1005.80 --> 1008.56] What would it look like if I took that seriously? -[1010.46 --> 1012.64] This is my confession going into Advent. -[1013.78 --> 1014.56] What's yours? -[1015.56 --> 1017.00] What is your heart posture? -[1018.18 --> 1019.46] Are you caught up in the chaos? -[1019.46 --> 1024.92] Or are you calling on God to stir your heart and prepare for Jesus? -[1026.52 --> 1028.92] We just sang about Jesus being our hope, -[1029.36 --> 1034.28] and I know it's easy for me to lose sight of that in the midst of chaos and challenges in life. -[1035.04 --> 1036.50] But God never lets go. -[1036.50 --> 1040.88] Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, -[1040.88 --> 1043.62] His perfect love is casting out fear. -[1044.40 --> 1047.72] And even when I'm caught in the middle of the storms of this life, -[1048.14 --> 1049.16] I know God is near. -[1050.30 --> 1052.62] Stand and join us in singing these truths together. -[1052.62 --> 1056.56] I know God is near. -[1056.56 --> 1057.98] Let's hear it. -[1057.98 --> 1060.08] I know God is near. -[1060.24 --> 1062.80] Let's hear it. -[1062.80 --> 1063.84] I know. -[1064.00 --> 1064.46] I know. -[1064.46 --> 1066.04] I know. -[1066.04 --> 1093.70] Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, -[1093.70 --> 1098.48] when the perfect love is casting out clear, -[1100.30 --> 1106.74] and even when I'm caught in the middle of the storms of this life, -[1107.36 --> 1111.66] I won't turn back, I know you are near. -[1111.66 --> 1123.66] I will fear no evil, for my God is with you. -[1123.70 --> 1130.70] I will fear no evil, for my God is with me. -[1130.70 --> 1138.70] Whom then shall I fear? Whom then shall I fear? -[1138.70 --> 1145.70] Oh no, you never let go, through the calling, through the storm. -[1145.70 --> 1151.70] Oh no, you never let go, in every high and every low. -[1151.70 --> 1158.70] Oh no, you never let go, Lord, you never let go of me. -[1158.70 --> 1170.70] I can see the light that is coming, or the heart that holds on. -[1170.70 --> 1175.70] What glorious might be, I'll no compare. -[1175.70 --> 1182.70] There will be an end to the troubles, but until that day comes, -[1182.70 --> 1194.70] will live to know the fear of the earth, and I will fear no evil. -[1194.70 --> 1201.70] For my God is with me. -[1201.70 --> 1207.70] And if my God is with me. -[1207.70 --> 1214.70] Whom then shall I fear? Whom then shall I fear? -[1214.70 --> 1216.70] Whom then shall I fear? -[1216.70 --> 1221.70] Oh no, you never let go, through the calling, through the storm. -[1221.70 --> 1227.70] Oh no, you never let go, in every high and every low. -[1227.70 --> 1239.70] Oh no, you never let go, Lord, you never let go of me. -[1239.70 --> 1245.70] You'll be a light that is coming, or the heart that holds on. -[1245.70 --> 1252.70] And there will be an end to your troubles, but until that day comes, -[1252.70 --> 1254.70] till I will praise you. -[1254.70 --> 1256.70] Till I will praise you. -[1256.70 --> 1260.70] Till I will praise you. -[1264.70 --> 1270.70] I can see the light that is coming, or the heart that holds on. -[1270.70 --> 1276.70] And there will be an end to your troubles, but until that day comes. -[1276.70 --> 1278.70] Till I will praise you. -[1278.70 --> 1280.70] Till I will praise you. -[1280.70 --> 1282.70] Till I will praise you. -[1282.70 --> 1294.70] Oh no, you never let go, through the calling, through the storm. -[1294.70 --> 1300.70] Oh no, you never let go, through every high and every low. -[1300.70 --> 1306.70] Oh no, you never let go, Lord, you never let go of me. -[1306.70 --> 1312.70] Oh no, you never let go, through the calling, through the storm. -[1312.70 --> 1318.70] Oh no, you never let go, in every high and every low. -[1318.70 --> 1328.70] Oh no, you never let go, Lord, you never let go of me. -[1328.70 --> 1353.38] This is just one of those days, one of those mornings. -[1353.38 --> 1360.22] We have the opportunity to participate and share in the baptism of Lucas Smid. -[1361.74 --> 1366.02] And yet, twin calves were born overnight at the Smid farm. -[1367.70 --> 1370.76] And so we're waiting for Adam to walk in. -[1370.96 --> 1372.38] He's here in the parking lot, apparently. -[1374.72 --> 1379.36] And so when he gets in, he might just run straight up on the stage. -[1379.36 --> 1389.74] Before we do that, just a couple moments, points of liturgy for us as well. -[1390.18 --> 1395.94] This morning, as we celebrate the baptism of one of our little ones, -[1396.30 --> 1401.16] the water that we're going to use doesn't itself cleanse us from sin, -[1401.38 --> 1406.02] but it symbolizes for us Jesus' life, death, and resurrection, -[1406.02 --> 1408.72] which does cleanse us from sin. -[1410.14 --> 1416.90] And we acknowledge this morning that Lucas, though born with a sinful nature, -[1417.44 --> 1424.14] is a child offered the promises of God for forgiveness and for life in the Spirit. -[1425.40 --> 1429.90] And so in the church, we baptize infants not out of superstition, -[1430.40 --> 1433.74] but as covenant children. -[1433.74 --> 1440.60] God's covenant with Abraham, which was sealed by circumcision in Genesis 15, -[1440.60 --> 1447.82] now finds its sign and seal in baptism, as we read in Colossians 2. -[1447.82 --> 1455.66] And through it, the triune God marks our adoption and our new identity in Christ, -[1455.66 --> 1460.78] a promise that is extended to our children in Acts 2, verse 39, -[1461.18 --> 1463.80] because God calls them holy. -[1464.54 --> 1467.02] He calls them set apart in 1 Corinthians 7. -[1467.02 --> 1473.80] And so as we come into this act together, baptism obeys the command of Christ. -[1474.02 --> 1481.32] It aligns with the church's history, and it signifies inclusion through and to God's covenant community. -[1481.32 --> 1486.76] And it's our prayer that Lucas embraces these promises, -[1487.06 --> 1490.46] and that he follows Jesus throughout his entire life. -[1490.82 --> 1494.90] And so Adam and Rachel and Lucas, I'm going to invite you to the front. -[1494.90 --> 1511.44] Hey, buddy. -[1513.58 --> 1518.42] And so before we baptize Lucas, I have two questions to ask you. -[1518.52 --> 1522.98] I'll ask both of the questions, and I'll invite you to respond by saying we do with God's help. -[1522.98 --> 1529.60] Adam and Rachel, do you believe that your children, though sinful by nature, -[1529.74 --> 1535.28] are received by God and Christ as members of his covenant and therefore ought to be baptized? -[1536.18 --> 1541.58] And do you promise in reliance on the Holy Spirit and with the help of this Christian community -[1541.58 --> 1545.92] to do all in your power to instruct Lucas in the Christian faith -[1545.92 --> 1550.90] and to lead him by your example into the life of Christian discipleship? -[1551.32 --> 1552.06] What is your answer? -[1552.98 --> 1553.60] What is your answer? -[1555.00 --> 1557.46] We do with God's help and God helping us. -[1557.58 --> 1560.64] You've got an old CRC-er and a new CRC-er in the building. -[1560.64 --> 1568.04] I want to take this moment, and just like our Lord Jesus, who said, -[1568.20 --> 1570.54] let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, -[1570.60 --> 1572.82] for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these, -[1573.16 --> 1577.50] I want to invite the kids who are here this morning to come on up to the front -[1577.50 --> 1581.18] and just to gather seats here to make sure that you can all see -[1581.18 --> 1583.40] as we come together this morning. -[1583.40 --> 1584.02] Beautiful. -[1595.02 --> 1595.72] Love it. -[1595.78 --> 1596.04] All right. -[1596.10 --> 1599.98] In just a moment, we're going to take some of this water, -[1599.98 --> 1603.68] and we're going to put it on Lucas's head. -[1604.30 --> 1610.32] And we do that as a picture, as a symbol that God promises to wash us clean, -[1610.42 --> 1611.16] to make us clean. -[1611.16 --> 1615.16] And so just like you use water, maybe last night, maybe this morning, -[1615.32 --> 1617.38] hopefully within the last couple days or so, -[1617.52 --> 1618.70] to clean yourselves, -[1618.70 --> 1619.96] right? -[1620.04 --> 1624.32] We use water here to symbolize what Jesus does for us. -[1630.32 --> 1633.28] Lucas Lars Smid. -[1633.72 --> 1635.70] I baptize you in the name of the Father, -[1637.66 --> 1638.46] and of the Son, -[1639.50 --> 1642.34] and of the Holy Spirit. -[1643.62 --> 1644.10] Amen. -[1644.10 --> 1644.26] Amen. -[1644.26 --> 1648.90] I promise. -[1649.02 --> 1649.92] It's warm water, guys. -[1654.82 --> 1657.54] Congregation of our Lord Jesus Christ, -[1657.64 --> 1663.36] I'm going to invite you now also to participate in this ceremony together -[1663.36 --> 1668.10] by standing and responding to a question that I will ask you. -[1668.88 --> 1671.46] I will ask you to respond by saying, -[1671.46 --> 1673.34] we do with God's help, -[1673.44 --> 1675.38] if this is in fact true for you, -[1675.64 --> 1677.28] in confession and in promise. -[1678.12 --> 1680.30] And so do you promise to love, -[1680.48 --> 1681.12] and encourage, -[1681.38 --> 1682.46] and support Adam, -[1682.64 --> 1683.12] and Rachel, -[1683.32 --> 1683.84] and Lucas, -[1684.38 --> 1686.62] by welcoming them into our church family, -[1686.72 --> 1689.12] by teaching the gospel of God's love, -[1689.18 --> 1691.62] and by being an example of Christian faith, -[1691.78 --> 1692.48] and character, -[1692.66 --> 1695.24] and by giving the strong support -[1695.24 --> 1697.10] of God's family in fellowship, -[1697.58 --> 1698.18] in prayer, -[1698.40 --> 1699.28] and in service? -[1699.70 --> 1700.40] What is your answer? -[1700.40 --> 1702.90] We do with God's help. -[1703.50 --> 1703.82] Amen. -[1704.58 --> 1705.02] Amen. -[1705.20 --> 1705.84] You may be seated. -[1706.24 --> 1707.08] Thank you. -[1709.96 --> 1711.74] I'm going to bless him first, -[1711.82 --> 1712.44] and then I'll take him. -[1714.86 --> 1718.06] We're going to pray a blessing over Lucas, -[1718.42 --> 1722.18] and then we will present him as a covenant child together. -[1723.38 --> 1723.90] Lucas, -[1724.44 --> 1726.76] the Lord bless you and keep you. -[1726.76 --> 1729.22] The Lord make his face to shine upon you -[1729.22 --> 1730.48] and be gracious to you. -[1730.68 --> 1732.90] The Lord turn his face toward you -[1732.90 --> 1734.94] and give you his peace. -[1735.68 --> 1736.60] And in this way, -[1736.94 --> 1739.22] may the Lord put his name on Lucas -[1739.22 --> 1741.74] and make him the Lord's own. -[1742.14 --> 1742.48] Amen. -[1742.48 --> 1742.64] Amen. -[1750.94 --> 1752.26] His bow tie is a little big, -[1752.34 --> 1752.96] but it looks cute. -[1753.04 --> 1753.78] That's what I just heard. -[1753.78 --> 1755.78] Let's see if that's true. -[1756.90 --> 1757.74] This morning, -[1758.36 --> 1761.62] we mark Lucas' journey -[1761.62 --> 1766.20] and hopefully beginning of his life of faith. -[1767.08 --> 1769.20] And so we pray that he'll go from this day -[1769.20 --> 1770.98] in the midst of this community, -[1771.50 --> 1773.74] growing in discipleship, -[1773.88 --> 1776.48] growing in relationship to the Lord. -[1776.48 --> 1779.72] And he does that in our midst. -[1780.26 --> 1781.20] And our prayer, -[1781.56 --> 1784.00] and I encourage you to join in it actively -[1784.00 --> 1785.66] and verbally, -[1785.98 --> 1786.44] regularly, -[1786.70 --> 1788.24] is to pray for Lucas -[1788.24 --> 1789.36] that one day -[1789.36 --> 1791.14] we might have the blessing -[1791.14 --> 1793.96] of seeing him stand before us -[1793.96 --> 1795.54] in making profession of faith, -[1795.64 --> 1797.82] just like we have seen Adam and Rachel -[1797.82 --> 1798.96] stand before us -[1798.96 --> 1801.22] and make profession of faith together. -[1801.84 --> 1803.62] And that as he begins this journey -[1803.62 --> 1806.40] of life and faith in our midst, -[1806.52 --> 1810.04] he would do so strongly supported by you, -[1810.52 --> 1812.96] his brothers and sisters in Christ. -[1813.46 --> 1816.34] This is part of our picture -[1816.34 --> 1818.54] this morning in baptism. -[1819.22 --> 1821.32] And you are invited now -[1821.32 --> 1822.52] to take that up -[1822.52 --> 1826.26] and continue drawing the picture of his faith, -[1826.36 --> 1827.58] being used by God -[1827.58 --> 1828.62] to guide, -[1829.12 --> 1829.40] keep, -[1829.74 --> 1830.92] and shape Lucas -[1830.92 --> 1833.56] into the disciple of Jesus -[1833.56 --> 1834.44] that we pray -[1834.44 --> 1835.40] he will become. -[1835.94 --> 1836.20] Amen? -[1837.36 --> 1837.88] Amen. -[1837.88 --> 1838.06] Amen. -[1839.60 --> 1840.66] He is adorable. -[1845.42 --> 1847.06] What would you expect of a smid? -[1847.26 --> 1847.92] Not that. -[1851.32 --> 1853.16] I want to invite Paul Hummelman -[1853.16 --> 1854.48] up to the front for just a moment. -[1854.48 --> 1855.96] He is a gift for you guys -[1855.96 --> 1859.16] on behalf of the church together. -[1871.52 --> 1872.50] We're going to pray together. -[1872.58 --> 1873.46] Paul, would you just stay up here -[1873.46 --> 1873.98] while we pray? -[1874.98 --> 1875.84] Let's pray together. -[1878.44 --> 1880.44] Lord, our good God, -[1880.44 --> 1884.22] we are so grateful for your promises -[1884.22 --> 1885.90] and so amazed -[1885.90 --> 1888.00] at just how faithful you are to them. -[1888.88 --> 1891.06] As this promise is now extended -[1891.06 --> 1892.44] to Lucas in baptism, -[1892.96 --> 1894.52] we pray that you would move -[1894.52 --> 1895.98] in the power of your spirit -[1895.98 --> 1900.72] so that in great and magnificent ways -[1900.72 --> 1903.32] and in small and incremental ways, -[1903.56 --> 1905.74] he might grow as a disciple -[1905.74 --> 1907.66] of our Lord Jesus Christ. -[1907.66 --> 1909.88] And so, Lord God, -[1909.94 --> 1912.64] as you have blessed Adam and Rachel, -[1912.84 --> 1913.92] bless Lucas. -[1914.56 --> 1916.26] As you have blessed us, -[1916.38 --> 1916.88] your church, -[1917.16 --> 1917.84] through them, -[1917.96 --> 1919.68] may they all be a blessing -[1919.68 --> 1921.26] in our midst as well. -[1921.86 --> 1923.64] And may we, your people, -[1923.82 --> 1927.04] bask in your promises today, -[1927.80 --> 1929.68] trusting in your provision -[1929.68 --> 1931.18] for life and faith. -[1931.86 --> 1933.12] In Jesus' name we pray. -[1933.76 --> 1934.16] Amen. -[1935.12 --> 1935.38] Amen. -[1935.38 --> 1935.52] Amen. -[1935.52 --> 1938.70] We're going to stand -[1938.70 --> 1940.46] and continue our worship together. -[1940.56 --> 1941.50] We're going to sing a song -[1941.50 --> 1942.38] that Adam and Rachel -[1942.38 --> 1943.70] have picked for this occasion. -[1944.20 --> 1944.76] That song is -[1944.76 --> 1945.64] I Am Not My Own. -[1945.64 --> 1945.74] Amen. -[1945.74 --> 1946.52] Amen. -[1951.02 --> 1951.58] Amen. -[1951.62 --> 1952.22] Amen. -[1952.22 --> 1952.28] Amen. -[1952.28 --> 1952.32] Amen. -[1952.32 --> 1952.46] Amen. -[1952.46 --> 1952.92] Amen. -[1953.12 --> 1953.40] Amen. -[1953.40 --> 1953.52] Amen. -[1960.00 --> 1960.46] Amen. -[1960.46 --> 1960.80] Amen. -[1960.80 --> 1960.86] Amen. -[1960.86 --> 1961.20] Amen. -[1961.20 --> 1961.78] Amen. -[1961.78 --> 1962.50] Amen. -[1962.50 --> 1962.92] Amen. -[1962.92 --> 1963.30] Amen. -[1963.30 --> 1963.72] Amen. -[1963.72 --> 1964.42] Amen. -[1964.42 --> 1965.28] Amen. -[1965.28 --> 1965.50] Amen. -[1965.50 --> 1979.50] oh -[1984.14 --> 1993.50] is -[1995.50 --> 1997.94] is -[1998.02 --> 2006.50] oh -[2016.44 --> 2016.56] so -[2016.56 --> 2030.56] my -[2033.52 --> 2044.56] to turn my life in such a way -[2046.56 --> 2069.44] and unfathed -[2076.56 --> 2080.56] Rise, my Lord. -[2080.56 --> 2110.54] Rise, my Lord. -[2110.56 --> 2116.54] Of eternal life that made me willing and ready. -[2117.44 --> 2120.60] Even when I can't see my word. -[2123.24 --> 2127.36] From now on to always live for you. -[2130.94 --> 2135.00] I am not my own. -[2135.00 --> 2141.18] But belong body and soul. -[2141.60 --> 2147.10] In my life and in death. -[2147.60 --> 2153.00] To you, Lord, rise my Lord. -[2153.00 --> 2158.98] I am not my own. -[2159.30 --> 2165.06] But belong body and soul. -[2165.42 --> 2170.98] In my life and in death. -[2170.98 --> 2178.96] To you, Lord, rise my Lord. -[2178.96 --> 2208.94] I am not my own. -[2208.94 --> 2216.74] My Lord, rise my Lord. -[2217.38 --> 2220.74] I am not my other już yanmirolaju. -[2220.74 --> 2250.72] maintains for its many ministries. And we just want to say a huge thank you. As you've probably seen in the bulletin that you perhaps get in your email, there is a bit of a shortfall, of course, as we come to the end of the budget year. And there's been some really great momentum and we're catching up on that sort of that gap. So thank you again. And we just want to also ask that you consider in this last month how you could give and help us continue to fill that gap and that -[2250.74 --> 2280.14] shortfall. So thank you again and please prayerfully consider your donations this next month. Also, we'll take a moment now to give to the ministries of this church and also to the Diaconal Ministries. It is an organization or an agency that partners with the CRC church that works with deacons and deacon work across Canada, helping deacons be trained to be deacons, helping them work with local ministries in their own communities, and staying really active. -[2280.14 --> 2289.20] So we in this church have definitely benefited from their involvement the last 15-20 years. So we'd love to give back to them this morning. So thank you. -[2310.14 --> 2312.14] Thank you. -[2312.14 --> 2313.14] Thank you. -[2313.14 --> 2314.14] Thank you. -[2314.14 --> 2344.14] -[2344.14 --> 2349.46] O Lord, our souls in stillness wait. -[2350.50 --> 2353.58] Truly our hope is in you. -[2354.72 --> 2358.14] Truly our hope is in you. -[2360.06 --> 2364.58] O Lord of life, our only hope. -[2364.94 --> 2371.44] Your radiance shines on all who look to you in the dark. -[2371.44 --> 2376.52] Emmanuel, come, come light our heart. -[2379.46 --> 2385.70] For you, O Lord, our souls in stillness wait. -[2387.78 --> 2394.88] For you, O Lord, our souls in stillness wait. -[2395.78 --> 2398.92] Truly our hope is in you. -[2398.92 --> 2403.92] Truly our hope is in you. -[2405.36 --> 2411.18] O joy above all other loves in you. -[2411.42 --> 2413.92] We find more than enough. -[2414.76 --> 2416.88] We come as we are. -[2417.00 --> 2420.92] Woke, heal and restore, untie our heart. -[2420.92 --> 2422.92] For you, O Lord, our souls in stillness wait. -[2422.92 --> 2426.92] For you, O Lord, our souls in stillness wait. -[2426.92 --> 2433.92] For you, O Lord, our souls in stillness wait. -[2433.92 --> 2440.92] For you, O Lord, our souls in stillness wait. -[2440.92 --> 2447.92] For you, O Lord, our souls in stillness wait. -[2447.92 --> 2458.92] For you, O Lord, our souls in stillness wait. -[2458.92 --> 2459.44] Amen. -[2459.44 --> 2459.60] Amen. -[2468.18 --> 2472.50] Okay, I'm going to invite the kids back up for Kids Corner. -[2473.20 --> 2476.96] So if you are, I think, age three up to grade four, come on up. -[2477.20 --> 2481.44] We'll chat for a minute and then we will head off to children's worship time. -[2481.44 --> 2489.38] Good to see you guys. -[2489.74 --> 2491.06] Man, there's lots of you guys today. -[2491.16 --> 2492.04] This is great. -[2492.76 --> 2496.50] I have a quick question and then we're going to head off to children's worship time because -[2496.50 --> 2497.70] we've got lots to do today. -[2499.32 --> 2503.56] We're going to talk about big stuff today in children's worship time. -[2503.56 --> 2509.62] Have you guys heard of the Saudi Arabian Desert? -[2512.10 --> 2512.46] No? -[2512.72 --> 2514.48] You don't have a poster up on your door? -[2514.50 --> 2515.18] Oh, you have. -[2515.28 --> 2515.70] Okay, good. -[2516.02 --> 2516.20] Well. -[2516.38 --> 2518.36] We have a story about it. -[2518.44 --> 2520.36] Oh, you guys got a story about it. -[2520.40 --> 2523.44] It is a big desert in the Middle East. -[2524.00 --> 2529.18] And we have been learning about the Egyptians wandering through the desert, looking and hoping -[2529.18 --> 2529.94] for a home. -[2530.08 --> 2532.68] Do you guys know how big the Saudi Arabian Desert is? -[2532.68 --> 2533.42] Any guesses? -[2533.56 --> 2536.48] How big do you think it is? -[2536.58 --> 2537.04] What do you think? -[2537.08 --> 2537.86] How big is it? -[2541.72 --> 2542.16] Okay. -[2542.54 --> 2544.70] Joseph had some involvement maybe there. -[2545.42 --> 2546.40] Do you guys know how big it is? -[2546.44 --> 2547.18] It's so big. -[2547.52 --> 2548.08] So big. -[2550.52 --> 2555.22] How many millions of square kilometers do you think it is? -[2556.14 --> 2556.58] Five? -[2556.76 --> 2557.40] Good guess. -[2558.40 --> 2558.84] Three? -[2559.22 --> 2559.86] Good guess. -[2561.18 --> 2562.40] It's a crazy number. -[2562.40 --> 2563.92] I mean, who can think in the millions? -[2563.92 --> 2564.36] 50? -[2564.58 --> 2566.02] It's 2.33. -[2566.72 --> 2567.06] Okay? -[2567.64 --> 2567.98] Yeah. -[2568.36 --> 2571.10] That's critical to our lesson today. -[2571.38 --> 2572.28] No, it's not. -[2572.50 --> 2579.02] So, we're going to go talk more, not about the desert, but about some big stuff that happened -[2579.02 --> 2585.38] as the Israelites were still wandering the desert and trying to figure out their way. -[2585.38 --> 2586.02] Okay? -[2586.02 --> 2586.08] Okay? -[2586.52 --> 2588.96] So, let's go do that together in children's worship time. -[2589.10 --> 2594.60] But first, we will bless those that are going to stay here, and I think they will bless -[2594.60 --> 2597.02] us in return as we go off to do some stuff together. -[2597.16 --> 2597.88] So, let's stand. -[2598.48 --> 2601.56] We'll put up our hands together, and we'll stand with the congregation. -[2603.30 --> 2604.04] Ready, guys? -[2604.04 --> 2606.58] The Lord be with you. -[2606.84 --> 2608.38] And also with you. -[2634.04 --> 2642.16] Good morning. -[2643.36 --> 2647.36] As an elder here, it's my privilege to lead you in congregational prayer. -[2648.64 --> 2658.86] On a note this morning, Linda Rook of Neil and Linda Rook got the news that her biopsy -[2658.86 --> 2663.24] came back clear, and her cancer has not spread to the lymph nodes. -[2667.14 --> 2669.74] She and Neil are grateful to God for answered prayer. -[2669.92 --> 2675.30] However, the doctors did find more cancer cells near the area, and as a result, she is -[2675.30 --> 2678.90] having a second surgery on Wednesday to get that removed. -[2679.44 --> 2685.24] So, she asked for her prayers for a successful surgery and a quick recovery after that, so -[2685.24 --> 2687.40] we'll remember them in our prayers as well. -[2687.90 --> 2688.72] Please join me. -[2688.86 --> 2689.86] Thank you. -[2696.26 --> 2703.68] Our Father in heaven, it is with thanksgiving that we can come to your house to give you -[2703.68 --> 2708.96] praise through our songs and meditations, and to hear your gospel proclaimed. -[2709.94 --> 2715.58] When we consider the beauty of your creation and the world around us, we stand in awe of -[2715.58 --> 2716.84] your wisdom and your power. -[2716.84 --> 2724.64] O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is your name in all the earth, who have set your glory above -[2724.64 --> 2725.28] the heavens. -[2725.28 --> 2750.90] Father, we confess that we have not followed in your commandments. -[2750.90 --> 2751.90] We have not lived according to your word. -[2751.90 --> 2753.94] We have not lived according to your word. -[2755.50 --> 2760.64] Help to prepare our hearts and minds this week, especially as we partake in the Lord's -[2760.64 --> 2761.54] supper next Sunday. -[2761.54 --> 2765.54] We thank you for this church family at Emmanuel. -[2765.54 --> 2772.04] We lift up those who continue to experience the pain of losing loved ones and pray for your -[2772.04 --> 2772.48] peace. -[2773.48 --> 2778.00] Be with those dealing with physical limitations, loneliness, depression. -[2778.26 --> 2780.00] Lift them up by your presence, Lord. -[2780.00 --> 2789.92] Lord, we ask for a positive prognosis for Clary Closteroff's father and guidance for the doctors and the nurses that are caring for him. -[2791.04 --> 2793.32] We pray for Ashley and her family. -[2794.22 --> 2803.66] Give Ashley the perseverance to go through her chemotherapy treatment and that it may be successful and that she may be completely restored to her family. -[2803.66 --> 2809.82] We ask, Lord, that you visit those unable to come and worship with us physically. -[2810.38 --> 2813.24] Enable those who are shut in to feel your presence. -[2814.06 --> 2819.78] We give thanks that Mary Feitzma could come home and pray that she adjusts quickly with a new hip. -[2821.18 --> 2823.52] We also pray for Neil and Linda Rook. -[2823.92 --> 2827.16] Thank you, Lord, that the cancer had not spread to her lymph nodes. -[2827.72 --> 2832.38] And grant your peace and healing to Linda as she undergoes surgery this Wednesday. -[2832.38 --> 2832.58] Amen. -[2833.78 --> 2839.44] Almighty and everlasting God, who has caused your holy word to be written for our learning. -[2840.20 --> 2845.52] Bless Pastor Chris so we may hear your words, read them, and live them. -[2845.78 --> 2847.32] We pray this in Jesus' name. -[2847.84 --> 2848.12] Amen. -[2862.38 --> 2863.38] Amen. -[2863.38 --> 2864.38] Amen. -[2867.32 --> 2876.26] We're going to spend some time together this morning in God's Word, primarily in Isaiah 9. -[2877.34 --> 2880.30] We're going to read verses 2 through 7. -[2881.14 --> 2885.08] That's going to be on the screen behind me the first time we go through. -[2885.08 --> 2892.66] and I encourage you if you have a Bible either an actual physical copy to open that up to Isaiah -[2892.66 --> 2898.54] 9 and to keep that open or if it's on your phone your device whatever scroll there keep that with -[2898.54 --> 2902.96] you if you're looking for a Bible to hang on to there's a few at the back you can grab there -[2902.96 --> 2912.52] and use those ones. Let's read from Isaiah 9 starting at verse 2 together. -[2915.08 --> 2924.64] The people walking in darkness have seen a great light on those living in the land of deep darkness -[2924.64 --> 2932.24] a light has dawned you have enlarged the nation and increased their joy they rejoice before you -[2932.24 --> 2938.80] as a people rejoice at the harvest as warriors rejoice when dividing the plunder for as in the -[2938.80 --> 2944.84] day of Midian's defeat you have shattered the yoke that burdens them the bar across their shoulders -[2944.84 --> 2951.46] the rod of their oppressors. Every warrior's boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood -[2951.46 --> 2960.06] will be destined for burning will be fuel for the fire for to us a child is born to us a son is given -[2960.06 --> 2967.20] and the government will be on his shoulders and he will be called wonderful counselor mighty God -[2967.20 --> 2976.22] everlasting father prince of peace of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end -[2976.22 --> 2983.62] he will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom establishing and upholding it with justice -[2983.62 --> 2993.02] and righteousness from that time on and forever the zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this -[2993.02 --> 2994.90] this is the word of the Lord -[2994.90 --> 3010.90] a bunch of years ago I heard a story from someone who left the Christian faith -[3010.90 --> 3013.68] now today we would call it deconstruction -[3013.68 --> 3025.34] she deconstructed and she said that the peace that finally did her in was the idea that God is a -[3025.34 --> 3033.52] jealous God right she remembered the line from the Ten Commandments that says for I the Lord your God -[3033.52 --> 3039.74] am a jealous God punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation -[3039.74 --> 3051.34] jealousy is a negative emotion she reasoned and a good God can't have that and a jealousy that leads to -[3051.34 --> 3062.72] punishing children was a non-starter for her so she walked away after that she turned to some ways of -[3062.72 --> 3069.66] seeing and being in the world that are pretty common in today's culture and life right without -[3069.66 --> 3078.18] a personal and personalizing God in her life she started talking about these non-personal forces and about -[3078.18 --> 3084.80] manifesting things she wouldn't talk about spiritual realities per se because spiritual was too close to -[3084.80 --> 3094.10] Christian for her but instead she would talk about drawing good things towards you by putting good energy -[3094.10 --> 3104.04] out in the world now honestly this was 15 years ago but this sounds like so much of the influencers and gurus and -[3104.04 --> 3111.62] people you hear on Instagram and TikTok right now right she sounds like so many of the people in the world that I -[3111.62 --> 3119.10] talk to at the soccer field or who haven't grown up in Christian faith this kind of language is so ubiquitous -[3119.10 --> 3127.62] everywhere present in our culture that that even people who've grown up in a Christian home are using it -[3127.62 --> 3136.80] and talking like that and Christmas isn't really that different right in our post-Christian secular culture -[3136.80 --> 3143.58] and when I say secular I don't mean like atheist or non-religious I'm using the word secular in a technical -[3143.58 --> 3149.54] sense the way that Catholic social philosopher Charles Taylor uses it where he says that secular -[3149.54 --> 3158.16] is the eclipsing of all goals beyond human flourishing and the point there the point there is that we live -[3158.16 --> 3164.88] like the only thing that matters is personal happiness or personal flourishing right and in that there may be a -[3164.88 --> 3174.86] caveat about not harming other people but this kind of secularization puts me puts I at the center of the -[3174.86 --> 3181.78] universe and all of us are the centers of our own universes or what do they say now you have main character -[3181.78 --> 3189.12] energy right center of your own universe and we just orbit around each other right I get what I want -[3189.12 --> 3196.60] to be really clear again I'm not even talking about things not even talking about stuff or presence and -[3196.60 --> 3203.62] the like right I'm talking about like certain personal feelings I want to feel cozy I want to feel loved -[3203.62 --> 3210.38] right by one person or by four right I want to feel like we're together I want these warm fuzzy feelings -[3210.38 --> 3222.64] and all of that is disconnected from God or Jesus or church like the woman I knew 15 years ago modern day -[3222.64 --> 3230.82] spirituality makes everything about me and about my experience about me and my feelings and I want to -[3230.82 --> 3238.66] suggest this morning that one of the ways that this is in comp accomplished right is by depersonalizing -[3238.66 --> 3248.70] God so instead of God we get an energy we get a force we get a universal thing right that that I -[3248.70 --> 3259.34] ultimately control or bend to my will when God becomes what I desire I have to make God into something -[3259.34 --> 3268.64] that doesn't have his or her or their its own desires right when my desire becomes God to -[3268.64 --> 3280.98] me that God can't have desires of its own that's what depersonalizing God does in short the problem -[3280.98 --> 3290.96] isn't that God is jealous the problem is that God has any feelings of his own at all right a personal -[3290.96 --> 3297.70] God will be jealous for something a good God the God of the Bible will be jealous for the right thing -[3297.70 --> 3305.84] instead what so many of us think we want is the God of my desire -[3305.84 --> 3319.20] now here's what I believe you you are created you are in this world you have a longing in your heart that -[3319.20 --> 3326.32] sometimes you just can't put words to and with that longing and for that longing and out of that longing -[3326.32 --> 3333.32] we try to fill our lives with stuff and with things and with people with relationships with sex or with -[3333.32 --> 3339.72] drinking or drugs or work or titles or status or energies or vibes I hate that word -[3339.72 --> 3350.28] right whatever you desire it just never lasts and so you try again you try somewhere else you try -[3350.28 --> 3355.86] something else you say oh just a little bit more and again and again and again and it goes and all of -[3355.86 --> 3361.76] this fumbling around in the darkness is trying to figure it out on our own and it just proves it just -[3361.76 --> 3368.52] proves that we were created for something different for something more for something transcendent and yet -[3368.52 --> 3374.56] relational someone who is and who can be jealous for you -[3374.56 --> 3384.48] and I think that when we look a little bit more closely you will find that the the modern move of -[3384.48 --> 3393.56] depersonalizing God and talking about sort of nebulous spiritual forces and good energies just doesn't satisfy -[3393.56 --> 3395.56] satisfy your heart -[3395.56 --> 3412.28] this Christmas we are looking for a personal God with a plan and a purpose that's our theme this morning we -[3412.28 --> 3422.36] are looking for a personal God with a plan and a purpose now we read from Isaiah 9 verse 2 to 7 and we're -[3422.36 --> 3432.44] going to see this here right in the middle we see it all right in the middle at verse 6 right we have a child -[3432.44 --> 3440.60] who will be born a son that's the plan and he will be king more than that he will be wonderful counselor -[3440.60 --> 3449.96] mighty God everlasting father prince of peace that's the personal God and this God who has a plan he will be -[3449.96 --> 3457.88] forever and he will bring about peace and justice and righteousness that is his purpose we're looking -[3457.88 --> 3464.92] for a personal God with a plan and with a purpose and to help us see that let's start at the end with -[3464.92 --> 3474.84] purpose peace justice and righteousness of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end he will -[3474.84 --> 3481.48] reign on David's throne and over his kingdom establishing it and upholding it with justice and righteousness -[3481.48 --> 3484.92] from that time on and forever -[3484.92 --> 3488.76] peace justice and righteousness forever -[3488.76 --> 3498.84] that personal God that our hearts are longing for has a plan to bring about his purpose and part of his -[3498.84 --> 3508.92] purpose is peace and justice and righteousness now in the Bible peace is about so much more than a state of -[3508.92 --> 3516.68] being or living without war right peace in Hebrew the word is shalom right the it's about wholeness -[3517.64 --> 3526.52] it's about being fully human fully alive right peace is union and communion with God and with other people -[3526.52 --> 3535.16] and with creation as it stewards right peace is the the fullness of life ultimate satisfaction peace is in the -[3535.16 --> 3543.56] words of Jesus drinking the living water after which you will never thirst again right shalom is about right -[3544.12 --> 3554.60] relationship living restored to right relationship is going to then be characterized by two things justice -[3554.60 --> 3556.36] justice and righteousness -[3556.36 --> 3558.20] justice and righteousness -[3559.72 --> 3569.88] often in the Bible but especially in the Old Testament these two words justice and righteousness come as a pair that's they're often together -[3571.40 --> 3572.28] but here's the thing -[3573.16 --> 3575.16] for so many of us especially -[3575.40 --> 3581.96] us New Testament Christians people who've been around the church for quite a while we think of justice and righteousness -[3582.60 --> 3584.76] only in theological categories -[3585.96 --> 3590.60] right justice and righteousness for many of us honestly have become kind of christianese -[3591.72 --> 3596.60] right a special language to us and it kind of just rolls off our back because like yeah I heard that term again before -[3597.64 --> 3601.72] right and and these terms and their meanings are assumed and they're used -[3602.60 --> 3611.16] especially in relationship to salvation and to atonement theories right particularly in an atonement theory that's called penal substitutionary atonement -[3611.16 --> 3612.60] now -[3613.32 --> 3618.12] maybe clear because that move that theological category isn't wrong -[3619.64 --> 3621.16] but it's also not all -[3622.60 --> 3628.36] right if we only ever think of justice and righteousness in those terms it actually does become wrong -[3628.36 --> 3632.76] because before these were theological terms -[3632.76 --> 3635.56] justice and righteousness were economic terms -[3637.80 --> 3641.72] right it's about equality of opportunity in society -[3641.72 --> 3647.16] it's about everybody getting a fair shake and getting proper or fair reward that's justice -[3648.36 --> 3653.48] right it's about communal systems of support and right action that's righteousness -[3654.36 --> 3657.56] right righteousness is a community term it is a covenant -[3658.12 --> 3658.44] term -[3658.44 --> 3665.40] and the promise of peace and justice and righteousness in the kingdom of jesus is about -[3665.40 --> 3675.88] more than reconciliation with god and with salvation theories and again it starts there and those are critical it's sustained there and that's perhaps even the pinnacle of this revelation -[3675.88 --> 3677.32] but justice and peace and righteousness -[3677.32 --> 3682.68] also spill out to a fuller expression of what it means to be -[3683.16 --> 3691.32] human fully alive living in community together created for god created for one another and living in ways that express -[3691.32 --> 3692.52] God's God's God's design -[3692.52 --> 3693.56] God's design -[3693.56 --> 3694.76] and if we miss that -[3695.72 --> 3696.84] we miss our purpose -[3697.88 --> 3702.28] we miss the fullness of what the promise of Christmas actually means -[3703.80 --> 3711.72] right peace and justice justification and righteousness are gifts of god by grace to those who believe -[3712.04 --> 3718.52] and they are also realities that flow out of that gift of right relationship with God -[3718.52 --> 3728.12] they are realities that pour out of you and me and of all of us who believe realities that flow out to the world around us confirming our belief -[3728.52 --> 3732.84] proclaiming God's good news and his forever purposes in the world -[3734.44 --> 3740.52] you are now a people who pursue justice and who stand against injustice -[3742.12 --> 3747.08] you do this in small ways in unsung ways in unlauded by society ways -[3747.08 --> 3752.68] you do this in ways that might not even make sense to a secularized or secularizing world -[3752.68 --> 3757.80] because you know that your life isn't about you anymore you know that you are not your own -[3758.36 --> 3762.68] but belong body and soul and life and in death to your faithful savior Jesus Christ -[3763.32 --> 3768.68] and you do this in in big ways in systemic ways in addressing economic injustice -[3769.56 --> 3771.40] in standing up against racism -[3771.40 --> 3778.28] right you get involved in politics because you really believe that God's purposes are actually best for everyone -[3779.56 --> 3787.48] you think about regenerative practices in your farming because you know that part of our purpose is lived in relationship with creation -[3787.72 --> 3789.40] right to work it and keep it -[3790.68 --> 3796.52] every area every sphere of your life is touched by this purpose of God -[3796.52 --> 3798.84] peace -[3798.84 --> 3799.96] justice -[3799.96 --> 3800.68] justice -[3800.68 --> 3802.68] and righteousness -[3804.20 --> 3805.48] that's the promise of Christmas -[3807.80 --> 3812.92] now this text starts in the middle with a promise and it ends with a guarantee -[3813.72 --> 3818.20] right the last line the zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this -[3819.16 --> 3821.24] how do we know that this promise is true -[3822.20 --> 3827.16] that this promise is going to happen that it's going to come to fruition as God has designed and planned and ordained -[3828.12 --> 3831.48] well the zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish it -[3833.08 --> 3837.96] and so I guess the next question is what is the Lord's zeal what is he zealous for -[3840.04 --> 3841.08] now the Hebrew word -[3843.00 --> 3844.04] zeal is -[3844.04 --> 3844.76] kinah -[3844.76 --> 3851.16] it comes actually from the the color that's produced in the face by intense deep emotion -[3851.88 --> 3853.80] right a deep red or purple -[3854.44 --> 3856.60] sometimes even black like a like -[3857.56 --> 3859.56] bruises go red to purple and black -[3859.88 --> 3864.44] right it describes an intense feeling an intense commitment -[3864.44 --> 3866.36] zeal is a passion -[3866.36 --> 3867.08] it is a -[3867.08 --> 3867.96] a rage -[3867.96 --> 3869.80] it is an unyielding devotion -[3869.80 --> 3871.00] it is unflinching -[3871.00 --> 3871.96] commitment -[3871.96 --> 3875.32] it's the same word that's translated jealous -[3878.12 --> 3879.24] the Lord your God -[3879.88 --> 3881.96] is a zealous God -[3881.96 --> 3884.28] and so he acts jealously -[3884.92 --> 3885.96] for those whom he loves -[3887.08 --> 3891.24] and in the Bible there are two things that God is zealous for -[3892.52 --> 3895.40] two things that we see over and over and over again his people -[3895.40 --> 3897.00] and his honor -[3897.00 --> 3898.68] his glory -[3898.68 --> 3902.04] all right let's let's do some biblical theology for a minute -[3902.76 --> 3905.56] Zechariah 1 verse 14 says literally -[3905.56 --> 3910.92] I am zealous for Jerusalem for Zion greatly zealous -[3912.04 --> 3917.72] right zeal is the Lord's intense devotion to and love for his people -[3917.72 --> 3920.28] it's why he saves them -[3920.28 --> 3921.40] it's why he defends them -[3921.40 --> 3924.04] it's why over and over and over again he rescues them -[3924.04 --> 3925.40] it's why he vindicates them -[3925.40 --> 3927.16] why he fulfills his promises to them -[3927.16 --> 3931.80] right his zeal for his people burns brightly in his face -[3931.80 --> 3937.40] God is zealous for his people and he is zealous for his honor -[3937.40 --> 3937.88] right -[3937.88 --> 3940.44] Exodus 2 5 we've read part of it already -[3940.44 --> 3942.92] you shall not bow down to them and worship them -[3942.92 --> 3945.00] this is the commandment against idolatry -[3945.00 --> 3948.36] for I the Lord your God am a jealous God -[3949.08 --> 3953.08] right jealous and zealous share a root in Hebrew -[3953.08 --> 3959.72] Isaiah 42 we read I am the Lord that is my name I will not give my glory to another -[3959.72 --> 3964.20] the Lord will march out like a mighty man like a warrior he will stir up his -[3964.84 --> 3965.24] zeal -[3966.44 --> 3970.68] with a shout he will raise the battle cry and will triumph over his enemies -[3972.04 --> 3977.72] and and with God's honor is his wrath against sin which is an affront to his honor -[3977.72 --> 3982.68] right the Bible goes on to say in Ezekiel of the people of Jerusalem -[3983.08 --> 3984.04] in Ezekiel 5 -[3984.68 --> 3990.44] you have been more unruly than the nations around you and have not followed my decrees or kept my laws -[3990.92 --> 3995.48] I myself am against you Jerusalem I will inflict punishment on you -[3995.48 --> 4002.60] when I have spent my wrath on them they will know that I the Lord have spoken in my zeal -[4004.76 --> 4009.88] and again Ezekiel he does this work for us he ties together the zeal of God for his people -[4009.88 --> 4015.40] and the zeal of God for his honor together in the same idea in Ezekiel 39 he says this -[4015.40 --> 4021.16] therefore is what the Lord the sovereign says I will now restore the fortunes of Jacob and will -[4021.16 --> 4027.56] have compassion and all the people of Israel and I will be zealous for my holy name -[4029.64 --> 4035.96] and so here right when Isaiah ends our text that we read when he ends it by saying the zeal of the -[4035.96 --> 4042.52] Lord almighty will accomplish this he's telling us what's at stake for God in this he's telling us what -[4042.52 --> 4049.16] this is really about God's commitment to his own glory and to his people that's what's really going on in -[4049.16 --> 4056.44] Christmas at the promise of a child of a son who will hold the world on his shoulders whose kingdom will no no -[4056.44 --> 4062.92] end either geographically or temporally right a son who will exercise perfect justice and righteousness -[4062.92 --> 4071.64] and who will bring us peace all of this is predicated on God's own zeal God's commitment to his own people -[4071.64 --> 4077.96] and his own honor his commitment to love and glory right make the promise to Isaiah and through Isaiah -[4078.60 --> 4085.80] Isaiah a guarantee that's how we can know this is true right the promise of a perfect kingdom of peace -[4085.80 --> 4093.00] and justice and righteousness is a fact of history it will happen saying the zeal of the Lord will -[4093.00 --> 4099.48] accomplish this is as if God is saying what is at stake here is more than just words more than just a -[4099.48 --> 4107.40] promise it is my character it is my being myself as God that's what's on the line and that's why you can -[4107.40 --> 4118.28] know this is true forever God is zealous for his people he loves them and God is zealous for his honor he -[4118.28 --> 4127.32] will be glorified but the zeal of God is his passionate pursuit of his people and his holding high his holiness -[4127.32 --> 4142.68] and honor and for God those aren't contradictory dispositions right this is not a dichotomy between -[4142.68 --> 4149.16] people and honor his love and his holiness is not a dichotomy between his affection and his glory in fact -[4149.16 --> 4160.92] they come together no one has stated this i think with such precision as uh jonathan edwards who's a 18th -[4160.92 --> 4170.52] century pastor and theologian he says god's respect to the creature's good and his respect to himself -[4170.52 --> 4178.52] is not a divided respect both are united in one as the happiness of the creature is -[4178.52 --> 4189.08] is aimed at the happiness in union with himself with god god's commitment to his own glory is for your -[4189.08 --> 4201.48] good god's commitment to you means that he must be zealous for his glory god is zealous for his glory -[4201.48 --> 4207.16] and he is jealous for you because of it and so let's pull all this together -[4209.40 --> 4215.40] god's commitment to his people to those who truly believe in him who trust in him alone for their -[4215.40 --> 4223.40] salvation and god's commitment to his glory means he cannot fail means his promises endure forever -[4223.40 --> 4230.52] means he actually does have the words of eternal life means that peace and justice and righteousness will reign -[4230.52 --> 4240.36] forever and you can rest secure in him you are held in the affections of this god by grace through faith and when -[4242.60 --> 4249.24] when you know the child who was born when you know the son who was given -[4249.24 --> 4255.96] all the promise of god all the promises of god all the pursuits of god's all the world's turns and -[4255.96 --> 4263.56] movements and machinations are for your good that's god's plan and that's the promise that we baptized -[4263.56 --> 4270.52] lucas into this morning the promise that was spoken over him and has spoken over all of us each time we read -[4270.52 --> 4271.56] these words -[4274.92 --> 4276.44] here's what i want you to hear this morning -[4279.24 --> 4284.12] whether you are here with child or with cancer -[4286.60 --> 4292.04] whether you are here singing for joy or shuffling in injury and post-op recovery -[4293.00 --> 4301.40] whether you are here terrific and joyful or terrified and crying whether you are full of wonder or just -[4301.40 --> 4310.76] wondering god has a plan for all of it god has a plan and it is good -[4310.76 --> 4323.24] god has a plan and it's for you right if god is for us who can be against us there's there's a majestic -[4323.24 --> 4332.04] meaning to all of this and that majestic meaning may be bound up in eternity but so are you the teacher -[4332.04 --> 4337.72] in ecclesiastes he says god has put eternity in every human heart -[4339.96 --> 4346.44] and i know i know in today's world right where this world is all there is -[4347.32 --> 4355.16] where meaning has to be imminent right where the payoff has to be immediate right this idea this truth is -[4355.16 --> 4364.92] almost impossible to grasp or to really feel the the pull of the transcendent and and there's a beauty here right that that stirs -[4364.92 --> 4372.44] our haunting for more there's something going on and part of that beauty for us today is that it is true -[4373.48 --> 4384.20] all of it as insane and ridiculous as it sounds it is true god has a plan and it is meaningful and in the christian -[4384.20 --> 4391.64] gospel there's no such thing then as meaninglessness or meaningless suffering or empty joy everything -[4391.64 --> 4401.00] is filled to overflowing with what one theologian calls a peculiar glory your life your affection your -[4401.00 --> 4409.40] worship your hardship your trials your tribulations they produce a peculiar particular weight of glory -[4409.40 --> 4419.56] your story your story wrapped up in god's story such that there is now nothing that can separate you from the love of god that is available in christ jesus our lord -[4421.32 --> 4422.20] how do i know this -[4424.12 --> 4425.00] well i've lived it -[4426.20 --> 4429.16] i've tasted it i've seen it in my own life -[4431.56 --> 4433.00] but that's no guarantee for you -[4433.00 --> 4436.60] the only guarantee for you -[4438.12 --> 4445.48] is that the zeal of the lord almighty the zeal of the lord almighty will accomplish this right god is -[4445.48 --> 4454.52] zealous for his people he is jealous for his honor and here his love and his glory meet on display for us to see -[4454.52 --> 4462.68] the promise of isaiah 9 is signed is guaranteed for us by the zeal of god it's as if god himself -[4462.68 --> 4466.60] with his self has signed this promise with more than a signature -[4468.44 --> 4475.08] right because if it was just a signature it would only be a legal document god signs it -[4475.08 --> 4484.84] with his son in his own blood the son who was promised the king who would come who did come -[4484.84 --> 4492.76] already as a baby king of kings and lord of lords the the world missed him angels bowed down before him -[4492.76 --> 4501.64] and one day every knee will bow every tongue confess that jesus christ is lord he is the mighty god and -[4501.64 --> 4508.12] the prince of peace and this child he grows up not to command armies but to live with the poor and the -[4508.12 --> 4515.32] prostitutes he come grows up to teach a rag back ragtag bunch of rejects to live and to love as god -[4515.32 --> 4522.68] does pursuing justice and righteousness this child who was perfectly obedient to the father who knew no sin -[4522.68 --> 4530.28] became sin for us he lived the life i should have lived and died the death that i deserved and by him -[4530.28 --> 4537.08] sinners become saints that the wrath of god for sin is overwhelmed by the love of god for his people -[4538.52 --> 4546.60] that's why matthew takes this text in isaiah 9 and he reads it and applies it to jesus all right the -[4546.60 --> 4552.76] people living in darkness have seen a great light on those living in the land the shadow of death a light -[4552.76 --> 4564.12] has dawned and after matthew quotes this he says in matthew 4 17 from that time on jesus began to preach -[4564.92 --> 4569.64] repent for the kingdom of heaven has come near -[4572.36 --> 4582.20] in this man the kingdom of heaven has come near in this man peace and justice and righteousness has come -[4582.20 --> 4590.44] to you don't miss it again this christmas the zeal of god for his people in order to satisfy the zeal of -[4590.44 --> 4597.56] god for his honor made jesus the satisfaction for our sins so that now my zeal for god's love my zeal for -[4597.56 --> 4607.24] his glory are how i truly live satisfied with him and it's that zeal of god that makes salvation possible it -[4607.24 --> 4613.48] is that zeal of god that sends him to the earth in jesus at christmas and it's that zeal of god that -[4613.48 --> 4621.56] jealousy of god that sustains you now in life and in death but the zeal of god is his passionate pursuit -[4621.56 --> 4629.64] for his people and is holding high his honor and holiness and we just can't stop talking about a jealous -[4629.64 --> 4635.08] god right whether to the mountains or over the hills or to the coffee shops or the barber shops -[4635.08 --> 4641.48] right the zeal of god for his people the zeal of god for his honor is what makes christmas christmas -[4643.08 --> 4650.92] the people walking in darkness have seen a great light it is now your job to take that light and walk -[4650.92 --> 4660.36] in the darkness and say look at this god this god who is jealous for you -[4660.36 --> 4669.48] that is a christmas gift worth waiting for amen amen let's pray together -[4674.84 --> 4683.40] holy holy god you send us out into the darkness to proclaim your kingdom come and your kingdom coming -[4683.40 --> 4692.20] but you do not send us out empty-handed you equip us you give us the light of the gospel you give us the -[4692.20 --> 4703.96] power of your holy spirit you send us out now as those who have drank deeply of the living water and who now -[4703.96 --> 4715.64] radiate forth that same light as you are light of the world you said to us that we have become lights to the world -[4716.20 --> 4726.12] and so may we shine brightly this christmas season revealing the truth of a personal god with a plan and a purpose -[4726.12 --> 4734.44] and may all who see us know may all who engage with us know a little taste of your peace -[4735.56 --> 4742.92] your justice and your righteousness the world cries out and it doesn't know for whom it is crying -[4744.04 --> 4750.28] we do and so we go in the power of your spirit in jesus name amen -[4756.12 --> 4784.12] come behold the wondrous mystery in the dawning of the king -[4786.12 --> 4792.12] the theme of heaven's praises -[4792.12 --> 4796.12] wrote in frail humanity -[4797.56 --> 4806.12] in our longing in our darkness now the light of life has come -[4807.72 --> 4812.12] look to christ who condescended -[4812.12 --> 4816.12] took on flesh to ransom -[4816.12 --> 4822.12] come -[4822.12 --> 4826.12] come -[4826.12 --> 4828.12] behold the wondrous -[4828.12 --> 4830.12] behold the wondrous blest three -[4830.12 --> 4832.12] of the -[4832.28 --> 4838.12] that -[4838.12 --> 4843.00] that -[4843.00 --> 4846.12] and -[4846.12 --> 4850.12] him -[4850.12 --> 4852.12] he -[4852.12 --> 4854.12] he -[4854.12 --> 4865.18] Christ the great and sure fulfillment of the Lord, and we sing. -[4872.18 --> 4882.76] Come behold the wondrous mystery, Christ the Lord upon the tree. -[4882.76 --> 4892.14] In the stead of ruined sinners, and the lamb in victory. -[4893.48 --> 4901.76] See the price of our redemption, see the Father's plan unfold. -[4901.76 --> 4913.76] Bringing many sons to glory, grace unmeasured, love unto me. -[4913.76 --> 4930.00] Come behold the wondrous mystery, slain by death, the God of life. -[4930.00 --> 4939.00] But no great good and restraining, praise the Lord, He is alive. -[4940.58 --> 4949.00] What a foretaste of deliverance, power of delivering our hope. -[4949.00 --> 4959.38] Christ in power resurrected, as we will be when He comes. -[4959.38 --> 4970.80] What a foretaste of deliverance, how unwavering our hope. -[4970.80 --> 4981.80] Christ in power resurrected, as we will be when He comes. -[4981.80 --> 4981.94] Amen. -[4982.42 --> 4982.86] Amen. -[4983.34 --> 4983.86] Amen. -[4996.86 --> 5004.92] Before we receive God's blessing for the journey ahead, just an invitation for you to hang out -[5004.92 --> 5007.72] after our worship together for some fellowship. -[5007.72 --> 5009.82] There's coffee and refreshments at the back. -[5010.26 --> 5012.52] If you would like to meet someone for prayer, -[5012.74 --> 5015.80] there will be someone here at the front with a yellow name tag on. -[5015.88 --> 5017.88] They'd love to meet you, pray with you, -[5018.00 --> 5020.52] whatever it is that you are asking for prayer, -[5020.62 --> 5022.76] whether it is celebration or petition. -[5024.48 --> 5029.84] And take a moment, encourage you to congratulate Adam and Rachel on today -[5029.84 --> 5033.80] and thank Adam for making time for us and trust that the twins are okay. -[5033.80 --> 5040.64] Lastly, after you have had some time to connect, do just a reminder. -[5040.86 --> 5044.52] Please stack some chairs and help us get the tables out for tonight. -[5045.48 --> 5047.64] Go with God's blessing. -[5049.60 --> 5051.46] God, go before you to lead you. -[5051.92 --> 5053.84] God, go behind you to protect you. -[5054.42 --> 5056.36] God, go beneath you to support you. -[5056.64 --> 5058.92] And God, go beside you to befriend you. -[5059.34 --> 5061.00] Do not be afraid. -[5061.56 --> 5063.40] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5063.40 --> 5065.02] Do not be afraid. -[5065.66 --> 5070.08] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5071.12 --> 5071.56] Amen. -[5071.56 --> 5071.70] Amen. -[5093.82 --> 5095.04] Amen. -[5095.10 --> 5095.82] Amen. -[5099.90 --> 5100.36] Amen. -[5101.78 --> 5103.10] Amen. -[5103.40 --> 5103.52] Amen. -[5103.52 --> 5108.52] wh Durr -[5133.52 --> 5144.72] Yet over the light that shatters the night, in your heart, in the palm of glory. -[5144.72 --> 5155.72] Glory to God in the highest, peace to lay on earth. -[5155.72 --> 5167.72] Love and glory in wonder, Christ will have an end. -[5167.72 --> 5178.72] There is a day of creation that's on for when all time has been spent. -[5178.72 --> 5192.72] If the Lord returns, His song will repeat, as heaven complete, from His feet that fulfill the nations. -[5192.72 --> 5204.72] Glory to God in the highest, peace to lay on earth. -[5204.72 --> 5214.72] Come and adore Him with wonder, Christ will have an end. -[5216.72 --> 5228.72] Glory to God in the highest, peace to lay on earth. -[5228.72 --> 5240.72] Come and adore Him with wonder, Christ, Lord of heaven and earth. -[5240.72 --> 5252.72] And over the light that's on for when all time has been spent. -[5252.72 --> 5254.72] Come and adore Him with wonder, Christ will have an end. -[5254.72 --> 5284.70] Thank you. -[5284.72 --> 5314.70] Thank you. -[5314.72 --> 5344.70] Thank you. -[5344.72 --> 5374.70] Thank you. -[5374.72 --> 5404.70] Thank you. -[5404.72 --> 5434.70] Thank you. -[5434.70 --> 5464.68] Thank you. -[5464.70 --> 5494.68] Thank you. -[5494.70 --> 5524.68] Thank you. -[5524.70 --> 5526.70] Thank you. -[5554.70 --> 5556.70] Thank you. -[5584.70 --> 5586.70] Thank you. -[5614.70 --> 5616.70] Thank you. -[5644.70 --> 5646.70] Thank you. -[5674.70 --> 5676.70] Thank you. -[5704.70 --> 5706.70] Thank you. -[5734.70 --> 5736.70] Thank you. -[5764.70 --> 5766.70] Thank you. -[5794.70 --> 5796.70] Thank you. -[5824.70 --> 5826.70] Thank you. -[5854.70 --> 5856.70] Thank you. -[5884.70 --> 5886.70] Thank you. -[5914.70 --> 5916.70] Thank you. -[5944.70 --> 5946.70] Thank you. -[5974.70 --> 5976.70] Thank you. -[6004.70 --> 6006.70] Thank you. -[6034.70 --> 6036.70] Thank you. -[6064.70 --> 6066.70] Thank you. -[6094.70 --> 6096.70] Thank you. -[6124.70 --> 6126.70] Thank you. -[6154.70 --> 6156.70] Thank you. -[6184.70 --> 6186.70] Thank you. -[6214.70 --> 6216.70] Thank you. -[6244.70 --> 6246.70] Thank you. -[6274.70 --> 6276.70] Thank you. -[6304.70 --> 6306.70] Thank you. -[6334.70 --> 6336.70] Thank you. -[6364.70 --> 6366.70] Thank you. -[6394.70 --> 6396.70] Thank you. -[6424.70 --> 6426.70] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 15, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 15, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 40a2678f410c34ecc8f2eaac0669f01e0d6a5faa..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 15, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,62 +0,0 @@ -• The need for rescue from captors -• Sinfulness and arrogance -• Forgetting about God -• Babylon's arrival as prophesied by God -• Trusting in other nations' kings instead of God (referenced in 2 Kings 16:7-18) -• Disregarding God's ways in favor of their own -• Pagan worship and idolatry led to Judah's exile -• Judah sought comfort in false gods and pagan ways, not God -• The world can be a heavy place, causing pain and suffering -• People often seek comfort in worldly things that draw them away from God -• Recognizing the need for comfort reorientation, turning to God rather than worldly comforts -• Doom scrolling and the curated perfection of others' lives -• Seeking comfort through instant content and dopamine rush -• Instant gratification vs lasting fulfillment -• Turning to unhealthy coping mechanisms for comfort -• Worshiping idols and destructive behaviors when life is hard -• Finding true comfort in God's sovereignty during suffering -• God's sovereignty over adversity -• Finding comfort in the midst of pain -• The importance of turning to God for comfort -• The promise of restoration and salvation in Isaiah 40:1-11 -• The passage as a promise of a future Messiah, specifically Jesus Christ -• The connection between Mark 1:1-3 and Isaiah 40:1-11 -• The quote from Isaiah about preparing the way for the Lord -• John the Baptist's role in preparing the world for Jesus -• The concept of Jesus as the Messiah and King who forgives sins -• The connection between Mark 1 and Mark 2, highlighting how Jesus' message is about forgiveness and salvation -• The specific story in Mark 2 of Jesus healing a paralyzed man and forgiving his sins -• Jesus has authority to forgive sins -• He heals a man and demonstrates his power over sin -• Jesus came to defeat sin and rid the world of its discomfort -• He lived a perfect life, died for our sin, and rose again -• Sin is defeated and we have eternal comfort through Jesus' sacrifice -• True comfort comes from God's word made flesh in Jesus Christ -• Isaiah 40-55 is discussed as a chunk of text that reveals God's comfort -• The invitation to all people, regardless of wealth or background, is mentioned in Isaiah 55:1-5 -• The comfort of Christ brings communities together -• Themes from this passage are compared to Hebrews 12:1-3 -• Encouragement to fix eyes on Jesus and persevere through difficulties is emphasized -• The community of God surrounds and encourages believers during struggles -• The speaker's experience with a school relay race -• Being part of a team made up of students from different grade levels -• Passing second place at the finish line despite being tired and anxious -• The impact of community support on motivation and achievement -• Comfort, encouragement, and worship as themes related to Christian faith -• The promise of God's comfort and presence is found in the word -• Comfort leads to community and perseverance through trials -• Worship is the only response to this comfort -• Belonging to Christ by his Holy Spirit assures eternal life and makes us wholeheartedly willing to live for him -• This comfort is our certainty, and its promise endures forever -• True comfort is found in knowing we have been saved and redeemed by the word made flesh -• Comfort comes from God, not worldly things -• Reorienting comforts to see God as true comforter -• Community providing God's comfort to its people -• Surrendering to God and finding comfort in Him -• Redemption from sin through Jesus Christ -• Prayer and seeking God's presence in life -• Parting blessing and priestly blessing for the congregation -• Repeated message about Jesus Christ's birth -• Message repeated multiple times with varying time stamps -• Endless repetition of "thank you" at the end -• No other content or discussion mentioned \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 15, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 15, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6a1d164cced176b8a58ba4b27265ead7b91a0ed0..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 15, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1124 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[389.98 --> 419.96] Thank you. -[419.98 --> 449.96] Thank you. -[449.98 --> 479.96] Thank you. -[479.98 --> 509.96] Thank you. -[509.98 --> 539.96] Thank you. -[539.98 --> 569.96] Thank you. -[569.98 --> 599.96] Thank you. -[599.98 --> 629.96] Thank you. -[629.96 --> 659.94] Thank you. -[659.96 --> 689.94] Thank you. -[689.96 --> 719.94] Thank you. -[719.94 --> 749.92] Thank you. -[749.94 --> 779.92] Thank you. -[779.94 --> 809.92] Thank you. -[809.92 --> 839.90] Thank you. -[839.90 --> 869.88] Thank you. -[869.88 --> 899.86] Thank you. -[899.88 --> 929.86] Thank you. -[929.88 --> 959.86] Thank you. -[959.86 --> 989.84] Thank you. -[989.86 --> 1019.84] Thank you. -[1019.84 --> 1049.82] Thank you. -[1049.84 --> 1079.82] Thank you. -[1079.84 --> 1109.82] Thank you. -[1109.84 --> 1139.82] Thank you. -[1139.84 --> 1169.82] Thank you. -[1169.84 --> 1199.82] Thank you. -[1199.84 --> 1229.82] Thank you. -[1229.84 --> 1259.82] Thank you. -[1259.84 --> 1289.82] Thank you. -[1289.84 --> 1319.82] Thank you. -[1319.84 --> 1349.82] Thank you. -[1349.84 --> 1379.82] Thank you. -[1379.84 --> 1409.82] Thank you. -[1409.82 --> 1439.80] Thank you. -[1439.82 --> 1469.80] Thank you. -[1469.82 --> 1499.80] Thank you. -[1499.80 --> 1529.78] Thank you. -[1529.80 --> 1559.78] Thank you. -[1559.80 --> 1589.78] Thank you. -[1589.80 --> 1619.78] Thank you. -[1619.80 --> 1649.78] Thank you. -[1649.80 --> 1679.78] Thank you. -[1679.80 --> 1709.78] Thank you. -[1709.80 --> 1739.78] Thank you. -[1739.80 --> 1769.78] Thank you. -[1769.80 --> 1799.78] Thank you. -[1799.80 --> 1829.78] Thank you. -[1829.80 --> 1859.78] Thank you. -[1859.80 --> 1889.78] Thank you. -[1889.80 --> 1919.78] Thank you. -[1919.78 --> 1949.76] Thank you. -[1949.76 --> 1979.74] Thank you. -[1979.76 --> 2009.74] Thank you. -[2009.76 --> 2039.74] Thank you. -[2039.76 --> 2069.74] Thank you. -[2069.76 --> 2099.74] Thank you. -[2099.76 --> 2129.74] Good morning. -[2129.74 --> 2159.72] Thank you. -[2159.72 --> 2189.72] Thank you. -[2189.72 --> 2219.70] Thank you. -[2219.72 --> 2249.70] Thank you. -[2249.72 --> 2279.70] Thank you. -[2279.72 --> 2309.70] Thank you. -[2309.72 --> 2339.70] Thank you. -[2339.72 --> 2369.70] Thank you. -[2369.72 --> 2399.70] Thank you. -[2399.72 --> 2429.70] Thank you. -[2429.70 --> 2459.70] Thank you. -[2459.70 --> 2489.68] Thank you. -[2489.70 --> 2519.70] Thank you. -[2519.70 --> 2549.68] Thank you. -[2549.70 --> 2579.68] Thank you. -[2579.70 --> 2609.68] Thank you. -[2609.70 --> 2639.70] Thank you. -[2639.70 --> 2669.68] Thank you. -[2669.70 --> 2699.68] Thank you. -[2699.68 --> 2729.68] Thank you. -[2729.68 --> 2759.68] Thank you. -[2759.68 --> 2789.66] Thank you. -[2789.68 --> 2819.66] Thank you. -[2819.68 --> 2849.68] Thank you. -[2849.68 --> 2879.68] Thank you. -[2879.68 --> 2909.66] Thank you. -[2909.68 --> 2939.66] Good morning. -[2939.68 --> 2969.68] Thank you. -[2969.68 --> 2999.68] Thank you. -[2999.68 --> 3029.68] Thank you. -[3029.68 --> 3059.68] Thank you. -[3059.68 --> 3089.68] Thank you. -[3089.68 --> 3119.68] Thank you. -[3119.68 --> 3149.66] Thank you. -[3149.68 --> 3179.68] This text. -[3179.68 --> 3209.68] Thank you. -[3209.68 --> 3239.68] Thank you. -[3239.68 --> 3269.68] Thank you. -[3269.68 --> 3299.68] Thank you. -[3299.68 --> 3300.68] Thank you. -[3329.68 --> 3359.68] Thank you. -[3359.68 --> 3361.64] They needed rescuing from their captors. -[3363.08 --> 3365.08] But more importantly than that, -[3366.02 --> 3367.80] they needed rescuing from themselves. -[3369.40 --> 3371.72] They were sinful and arrogant, -[3372.08 --> 3373.86] and they had forgotten about God. -[3374.18 --> 3377.36] So Babylon came knocking, just as God said they would. -[3379.14 --> 3382.34] They were comfortable doing things their own way. -[3383.22 --> 3384.78] They were not doing things God ways. -[3384.78 --> 3386.20] Look at their history. -[3386.34 --> 3387.90] They had put their trust and comfort -[3387.90 --> 3392.00] in the kings of other nations instead of God. -[3392.10 --> 3395.96] You see that in 2 Kings 16, verses 7 to 18. -[3396.62 --> 3399.62] They had built pagan altars and had worshipped Baal. -[3399.92 --> 3401.30] They had broke the Sabbath, -[3401.66 --> 3405.08] and they sought wealth over obedience. -[3406.20 --> 3409.20] They had refused to listen to God's people, -[3409.64 --> 3410.32] God's prophets. -[3410.32 --> 3414.34] And they'd never abandoned their idolatry. -[3415.80 --> 3417.44] So because of their sin, -[3417.90 --> 3420.76] because they had put their hope in other nations, -[3421.02 --> 3423.12] in other gods, in other comforts, -[3423.12 --> 3426.82] they ultimately ended up in a foreign land -[3426.82 --> 3428.38] under foreign rule. -[3431.62 --> 3433.94] They needed saving from themselves. -[3435.28 --> 3437.30] And so God brought them to exile. -[3439.30 --> 3440.54] God discomforted them. -[3440.54 --> 3444.32] See, God had not forgotten his people -[3444.32 --> 3446.18] when they were overtaken by the Babylonians. -[3446.26 --> 3448.56] He wanted to draw them closer to him, -[3448.86 --> 3449.48] and they needed, -[3449.92 --> 3452.60] God needed their comforts reoriented. -[3454.24 --> 3456.46] They were finding their comfort in false gods -[3456.46 --> 3457.44] and pagan ways, -[3457.50 --> 3460.10] and what God promised would happen came to fruition. -[3460.48 --> 3461.12] They were captured. -[3461.82 --> 3463.22] They were brought out of their land. -[3463.28 --> 3465.88] They were removed from their comforts. -[3465.88 --> 3470.14] That was their context. -[3470.26 --> 3471.64] That was their situation. -[3473.26 --> 3474.38] So then what about us? -[3474.44 --> 3475.28] What about ours? -[3476.62 --> 3477.72] See, we're not Judah. -[3478.52 --> 3479.86] We're not in exile. -[3480.06 --> 3483.34] We cannot sort of draw these straight parallel lines -[3483.34 --> 3484.78] between what's happening there -[3484.78 --> 3485.92] and what's happening here. -[3486.10 --> 3487.92] We cannot claim that our own suffering -[3487.92 --> 3489.68] is kind of our own exile. -[3489.68 --> 3492.26] That's a little bit too irresponsible, I think, -[3492.30 --> 3492.68] with this passage. -[3493.64 --> 3496.98] But we do hurt, don't we? -[3499.08 --> 3500.02] We do hurt. -[3500.22 --> 3501.92] There's a lot of pain in our world. -[3503.86 --> 3505.20] And like the Israelites -[3505.20 --> 3508.64] who looked to the world to comfort them, -[3508.70 --> 3511.18] to things like idols and kings and wealth, -[3511.96 --> 3513.62] I think we too -[3513.62 --> 3517.48] often seek comfort in the things of this world, -[3517.48 --> 3520.80] things that draw us perhaps away from God. -[3522.88 --> 3524.26] So where do we seek comfort? -[3525.84 --> 3528.24] Or how do we need our own comforts reoriented? -[3530.20 --> 3531.68] The world is a heavy place, -[3531.80 --> 3533.56] and I know we feel the burden of life. -[3533.98 --> 3534.74] School is hard. -[3534.84 --> 3537.22] There's students returning from university right now. -[3537.28 --> 3538.86] They're in the middle of exams, some of them. -[3538.94 --> 3539.78] School is difficult. -[3541.34 --> 3542.68] Relationships can be strained. -[3543.56 --> 3544.86] We know that too well. -[3544.86 --> 3546.06] Work is demanding. -[3547.48 --> 3548.56] Health can be fleeting. -[3550.24 --> 3552.28] Our loved ones struggle with pain -[3552.28 --> 3554.40] and suffering and health themselves, -[3554.90 --> 3556.08] and we bear that. -[3557.36 --> 3559.16] I know many of us are in places -[3559.16 --> 3560.12] that are very difficult. -[3561.56 --> 3563.06] We just listen to a prayer. -[3563.14 --> 3564.20] We just heard some announcements. -[3565.14 --> 3566.32] We read the bulletin. -[3566.38 --> 3567.60] We know life is challenging. -[3567.80 --> 3568.74] Pain is present. -[3570.02 --> 3571.62] Life is hard. -[3571.62 --> 3576.12] But where do we turn for comfort? -[3577.48 --> 3582.00] One of my struggles, if I can be honest, -[3582.28 --> 3584.30] is the old cell phone. -[3586.22 --> 3587.54] If I've had a long day, -[3587.86 --> 3590.06] or if I'm feeling a little overwhelmed in life, -[3590.12 --> 3590.82] at the end of the day, -[3590.88 --> 3591.70] I'll sit down, -[3591.76 --> 3594.30] and I've been known to sort of doom scroll for a while. -[3595.10 --> 3596.38] For a period of time, -[3596.38 --> 3597.82] I care not to admit out loud. -[3598.72 --> 3600.60] For those of you who don't know what doom scrolling is, -[3600.64 --> 3601.46] it's when you tell yourself -[3601.46 --> 3602.84] you're just going to check the social media -[3602.84 --> 3603.72] for a minute or two, -[3603.80 --> 3605.08] and then two hours later, -[3605.16 --> 3607.34] you're knee deep in catastrophic headlines -[3607.34 --> 3608.44] and existential dread. -[3609.44 --> 3612.32] And there's the odd clip of a British panel show -[3612.32 --> 3613.44] somewhere thrown in there too, -[3613.50 --> 3613.96] for good measure. -[3614.28 --> 3616.44] It's like a little hit of dopamine light, -[3616.72 --> 3616.96] you know? -[3616.96 --> 3619.48] You know you should stop, -[3619.54 --> 3620.90] but you just kind of keep going. -[3620.98 --> 3621.92] It's like poking a bruise. -[3621.98 --> 3622.64] Like it hurts a little, -[3622.74 --> 3623.74] but you just kind of keep doing it. -[3625.12 --> 3626.20] The problem is, -[3627.04 --> 3628.18] there's always a new meme. -[3628.50 --> 3629.68] There's always a new reel. -[3629.82 --> 3631.52] There's another video to watch. -[3631.96 --> 3633.42] There's clickbait articles -[3633.42 --> 3634.64] and political opinions -[3634.64 --> 3636.54] and the latest on the Edmonton Oilers -[3636.54 --> 3637.68] that you need to keep up on. -[3638.00 --> 3639.62] There's celebrity news -[3639.62 --> 3642.28] and clips from your favorite TV shows. -[3642.46 --> 3642.96] And to be honest, -[3643.02 --> 3644.36] it's mostly just dumb people -[3644.36 --> 3645.84] doing things that are rather humorous. -[3645.84 --> 3648.02] In many ways, -[3648.96 --> 3650.82] most of it's fairly harmless -[3650.82 --> 3651.92] in and of itself. -[3653.28 --> 3655.48] But as I prepared this message, -[3655.56 --> 3658.46] I realized how much of my doom scrolling -[3658.46 --> 3661.44] is actually me seeking comfort -[3661.44 --> 3665.16] by turning to the curated perfection -[3665.16 --> 3666.52] of other people's lives -[3666.52 --> 3669.22] or by turning to a quick joke -[3669.22 --> 3670.32] or a funny post -[3670.32 --> 3672.20] or turning to an opinion -[3672.20 --> 3673.54] that I already have -[3673.54 --> 3675.48] because that's how these algorithms work. -[3675.84 --> 3678.76] So this forced me to ask, -[3678.90 --> 3680.74] how much of this is me just escaping -[3680.74 --> 3682.32] into a different world -[3682.32 --> 3683.74] fueled by a dopamine rush -[3683.74 --> 3684.56] of instant content? -[3685.20 --> 3687.68] Perhaps comfort is what I desire -[3687.68 --> 3688.56] when I do that. -[3688.92 --> 3690.20] But all I really get -[3690.20 --> 3693.10] is a jolt of instant gratification -[3693.10 --> 3695.06] that just withers away like the grass. -[3695.06 --> 3698.34] So where do you turn? -[3699.08 --> 3700.18] There's a lot of places -[3700.18 --> 3701.78] people turn for comfort in our world. -[3702.14 --> 3702.86] Maybe it's a bottle -[3702.86 --> 3703.98] from that special cabinet. -[3704.74 --> 3706.08] Maybe it's McDonald's. -[3706.46 --> 3708.00] Maybe it's a little retail therapy. -[3708.96 --> 3710.42] Maybe it's even back to the workplace. -[3711.12 --> 3712.62] Or maybe it's withdrawing -[3712.62 --> 3713.68] from the world altogether. -[3715.58 --> 3716.18] Now again, -[3716.46 --> 3717.34] if you think about it, -[3717.38 --> 3718.80] none of those are inherently bad -[3718.80 --> 3719.64] in and of themselves. -[3719.64 --> 3721.20] But if we try to find -[3721.20 --> 3722.04] our comfort there -[3722.04 --> 3723.30] over and over again, -[3723.62 --> 3724.68] at best, -[3725.28 --> 3726.60] we become zombies. -[3727.20 --> 3728.10] And at worst, -[3728.56 --> 3730.40] we start worshiping an idol -[3730.40 --> 3731.96] far more destructive -[3731.96 --> 3732.76] than we realize. -[3735.58 --> 3736.92] When life is hard -[3736.92 --> 3738.30] or when we feel the weight -[3738.30 --> 3740.14] of adversity on our shoulders, -[3740.28 --> 3741.22] where do we turn -[3741.22 --> 3742.38] for comfort? -[3742.38 --> 3742.46] comfort. -[3745.66 --> 3747.04] This theme actually links -[3747.04 --> 3748.52] to our previous sermon series, -[3748.64 --> 3749.20] if you recall. -[3749.38 --> 3750.08] Before Advent, -[3750.28 --> 3751.36] we were making our way -[3751.36 --> 3752.56] through the story of Joseph -[3752.56 --> 3753.62] in the Old Testament -[3753.62 --> 3754.28] and we were hearing -[3754.28 --> 3755.60] about God's sovereignty -[3755.60 --> 3756.58] and our suffering. -[3757.78 --> 3758.76] We learned about -[3758.76 --> 3760.98] how God used Joseph's adversity -[3760.98 --> 3762.78] to bless his family -[3762.78 --> 3763.84] and the surrounding nations. -[3763.96 --> 3765.44] See, in Joseph's story -[3765.44 --> 3766.34] in Genesis 50, -[3766.46 --> 3767.56] after being sold -[3767.56 --> 3768.42] by his brothers -[3768.42 --> 3769.22] into captivity, -[3769.50 --> 3770.26] after being shipped -[3770.26 --> 3771.10] to Egypt, -[3771.42 --> 3772.18] being enslaved, -[3772.18 --> 3773.52] being accused of a crime -[3773.52 --> 3774.32] he didn't commit, -[3774.68 --> 3775.62] being put in jail, -[3775.68 --> 3776.26] and eventually, -[3777.14 --> 3778.20] at the end of this story, -[3778.26 --> 3779.08] becoming one of the -[3779.08 --> 3780.36] key prominent rulers -[3780.36 --> 3781.62] that saves Egypt -[3781.62 --> 3782.52] and the surrounding nations -[3782.52 --> 3783.24] from famine, -[3784.16 --> 3785.46] Joseph meets his brothers -[3785.46 --> 3786.38] who sold him -[3786.38 --> 3787.28] in the first place -[3787.28 --> 3789.34] and he says to them, -[3789.46 --> 3791.00] what you planned for evil, -[3791.84 --> 3793.18] God used for good. -[3794.40 --> 3795.76] That whole sermon series -[3795.76 --> 3796.44] was teaching us -[3796.44 --> 3797.94] how God is sovereign -[3797.94 --> 3799.26] even over our adversity -[3799.26 --> 3800.96] and he uses it -[3800.96 --> 3801.64] for his glory. -[3802.18 --> 3804.44] So yes, -[3804.52 --> 3805.64] God uses our adversity -[3805.64 --> 3806.32] and yes, -[3806.52 --> 3807.98] that is often hard to see -[3807.98 --> 3809.02] in the midst of our pain -[3809.02 --> 3810.86] but while that is true, -[3812.24 --> 3812.84] oftentimes, -[3813.12 --> 3814.04] our adversity, -[3814.28 --> 3815.14] it highlights -[3815.14 --> 3816.22] where we turn -[3816.22 --> 3817.04] for comfort. -[3818.96 --> 3819.80] It highlights -[3819.80 --> 3820.90] where we turn to -[3820.90 --> 3822.08] to find a bit of comfort -[3822.08 --> 3822.70] in this world. -[3822.70 --> 3826.16] And so Israel here -[3826.16 --> 3827.10] was finding their comfort -[3827.10 --> 3828.16] in the things of this world -[3828.16 --> 3829.52] but when life is difficult, -[3829.88 --> 3830.78] where do we turn -[3830.78 --> 3831.28] for comfort? -[3833.56 --> 3835.02] Our text says -[3835.02 --> 3835.86] we find comfort -[3835.86 --> 3836.76] from the word. -[3837.04 --> 3837.42] Comfort, -[3837.92 --> 3838.36] comfort, -[3838.54 --> 3839.24] my people, -[3839.68 --> 3840.46] says your God. -[3842.04 --> 3842.58] God's people -[3842.58 --> 3843.12] were conquered. -[3843.26 --> 3843.42] Yes, -[3843.48 --> 3844.18] they were forsaken -[3844.18 --> 3845.56] but they were not forgotten. -[3845.56 --> 3848.28] the entirety of our passage, -[3848.40 --> 3849.06] Isaiah 40, -[3849.14 --> 3850.02] verses 1 to 11 -[3850.02 --> 3851.36] is about the promise -[3851.36 --> 3852.56] of restoration -[3852.56 --> 3853.90] for God's people. -[3854.36 --> 3855.42] In verse 2 of our text, -[3855.52 --> 3856.70] God forgives the sins -[3856.70 --> 3857.42] of his people. -[3857.86 --> 3858.20] He says, -[3858.44 --> 3859.70] her sin has been paid for. -[3859.96 --> 3860.58] She has received -[3860.58 --> 3861.46] from the Lord's hand -[3861.46 --> 3863.12] double for all her sins. -[3863.12 --> 3864.80] In verse 3, -[3864.88 --> 3865.70] we read about -[3865.70 --> 3866.46] how they will be -[3866.46 --> 3867.50] delivered from exile -[3867.50 --> 3868.32] as God will make -[3868.32 --> 3869.12] straight in the desert -[3869.12 --> 3870.10] a highway for them -[3870.10 --> 3871.30] to return back -[3871.30 --> 3872.52] to Judah from Babylon. -[3872.86 --> 3873.56] And in verse 10, -[3873.62 --> 3874.38] we hear about a king -[3874.38 --> 3875.26] who will come to reign -[3875.26 --> 3876.18] over them in power -[3876.18 --> 3878.42] and rule with a mighty arm. -[3878.78 --> 3879.90] And all of this points -[3879.90 --> 3881.66] to God bringing comfort -[3881.66 --> 3882.68] and salvation -[3882.68 --> 3883.86] to his people. -[3885.22 --> 3886.16] But of course, -[3886.30 --> 3887.02] this passage -[3887.02 --> 3888.88] is so much more -[3888.88 --> 3889.88] than a promise -[3889.88 --> 3890.62] to bring comfort -[3890.62 --> 3891.30] in the form -[3891.30 --> 3892.88] of returning these people -[3892.88 --> 3893.54] from exile. -[3894.66 --> 3895.50] This passage -[3895.50 --> 3896.42] is a promise -[3896.42 --> 3898.74] of a future Messiah. -[3900.12 --> 3900.80] As mentioned, -[3900.88 --> 3901.46] verse 3 and 4 -[3901.46 --> 3902.32] talk about preparing -[3902.32 --> 3903.26] a way in the wilderness -[3903.26 --> 3903.88] for the Lord, -[3903.96 --> 3904.56] making straight -[3904.56 --> 3905.08] a desert, -[3905.18 --> 3905.58] in the desert, -[3905.68 --> 3906.84] a highway for God. -[3907.20 --> 3908.22] Now this is not only -[3908.22 --> 3909.26] talking about preparing -[3909.26 --> 3910.18] a way out of Babylon, -[3910.88 --> 3911.98] but it's about preparing -[3911.98 --> 3913.70] the way for a coming Messiah. -[3914.72 --> 3915.60] In your Bibles, -[3915.74 --> 3916.92] flip over to the beginning -[3916.92 --> 3917.68] of Mark. -[3917.76 --> 3918.88] Mark chapter 1, -[3918.94 --> 3919.84] verses 1 to 3 -[3919.84 --> 3920.40] for a second. -[3920.92 --> 3921.78] Because this text -[3921.78 --> 3922.72] is found there too. -[3923.86 --> 3924.78] Mark's gospel -[3924.78 --> 3925.98] starts by saying this, -[3926.34 --> 3926.80] the beginning -[3926.80 --> 3927.56] of the good news -[3927.56 --> 3928.78] about Jesus the Messiah, -[3928.90 --> 3929.70] the Son of God, -[3929.94 --> 3931.16] as it is written -[3931.16 --> 3933.22] in Isaiah the prophet. -[3934.04 --> 3935.00] I will send -[3935.00 --> 3936.22] my messenger ahead of you -[3936.22 --> 3936.92] who will prepare -[3936.92 --> 3937.54] your way, -[3937.78 --> 3938.68] a voice of one -[3938.68 --> 3939.70] calling in the wilderness, -[3940.18 --> 3941.10] prepare the way -[3941.10 --> 3941.84] for the Lord, -[3941.94 --> 3942.90] make straight paths -[3942.90 --> 3943.32] for him. -[3943.74 --> 3945.42] And so John the Baptist -[3945.42 --> 3947.22] appeared in the wilderness, -[3947.80 --> 3948.90] preaching a baptism -[3948.90 --> 3949.70] of repentance -[3949.70 --> 3950.82] for their forgiveness -[3950.82 --> 3951.84] of sins. -[3951.92 --> 3952.56] And I'll skip ahead -[3952.56 --> 3953.72] to verse 7 here with me. -[3953.98 --> 3955.24] And this was his message. -[3956.50 --> 3957.82] After me comes the one -[3957.82 --> 3959.86] more powerful than I, -[3959.98 --> 3961.28] the straps of whose sandals -[3961.28 --> 3962.24] I am not worthy -[3962.24 --> 3963.84] to stoop down and untie. -[3964.66 --> 3965.70] John the Baptist says, -[3965.80 --> 3967.04] I baptize you with water, -[3967.12 --> 3968.50] but he will baptize you -[3968.50 --> 3969.40] with the Holy Spirit. -[3969.40 --> 3972.12] Our text today -[3972.12 --> 3972.90] is not simply -[3972.90 --> 3974.42] about the Israelites -[3974.42 --> 3975.20] being saved -[3975.20 --> 3976.08] from their captivity -[3976.08 --> 3977.12] to the Babylonians. -[3977.20 --> 3977.62] It's about -[3977.62 --> 3982.22] the Messiah. -[3984.18 --> 3985.32] It's about John -[3985.32 --> 3986.24] preparing the world -[3986.24 --> 3986.86] for Jesus. -[3987.84 --> 3988.84] This text is about -[3988.84 --> 3989.82] the coming king, -[3989.92 --> 3991.04] the king of kings, -[3991.14 --> 3992.08] the one who will rule -[3992.08 --> 3993.10] with a mighty hand, -[3993.16 --> 3994.10] the one who will gather -[3994.10 --> 3995.38] his lambs -[3995.38 --> 3996.30] and carry them -[3996.30 --> 3997.24] close to his heart, -[3997.24 --> 3998.54] the one who tenderly -[3998.54 --> 3999.96] says to all of this, -[4000.72 --> 4002.40] your sins have been forgiven. -[4004.44 --> 4006.48] Your sins have been paid for. -[4008.46 --> 4009.96] This is a perfect text -[4009.96 --> 4010.44] for Advent -[4010.44 --> 4013.34] because Jesus is coming, -[4013.86 --> 4014.78] it says to us. -[4015.94 --> 4016.54] And this, of course, -[4016.62 --> 4017.36] comes to fruition -[4017.36 --> 4018.30] on Christmas Day -[4018.30 --> 4019.30] when we celebrate -[4019.30 --> 4020.18] the coming of Jesus -[4020.18 --> 4020.82] into the world. -[4021.18 --> 4022.94] Jesus came to save us -[4022.94 --> 4023.94] from the root -[4023.94 --> 4025.40] of all our discomfort. -[4025.40 --> 4027.14] sin. -[4027.92 --> 4028.84] Jesus came -[4028.84 --> 4030.40] to forgive sins. -[4030.72 --> 4031.52] Mark 1 starts -[4031.52 --> 4032.34] with John the Baptist -[4032.34 --> 4032.90] and describes -[4032.90 --> 4033.68] how he prepared -[4033.68 --> 4034.94] the way for the Messiah. -[4035.04 --> 4035.84] If you go one chapter -[4035.84 --> 4037.14] further to Mark 2, -[4037.48 --> 4038.10] we read about -[4038.10 --> 4039.36] why Jesus came. -[4040.32 --> 4040.96] In Mark 2, -[4041.00 --> 4041.78] verses 1 to 12, -[4041.84 --> 4042.28] we read about -[4042.28 --> 4043.22] how Jesus heals -[4043.22 --> 4044.34] this paralyzed man. -[4044.68 --> 4045.44] This man was brought -[4045.44 --> 4046.50] to Jesus on a stretcher -[4046.50 --> 4047.14] by his friends, -[4047.34 --> 4047.96] but they couldn't -[4047.96 --> 4048.56] get to him. -[4049.10 --> 4049.62] And so, -[4049.72 --> 4050.42] they make a hole -[4050.42 --> 4050.92] in the roof -[4050.92 --> 4051.58] and they lowered -[4051.58 --> 4052.76] the man down to him. -[4053.54 --> 4054.88] If you've got your Bibles, -[4054.88 --> 4056.36] look at Mark 2, -[4056.44 --> 4056.96] verse 5. -[4057.04 --> 4058.38] What is the first thing -[4058.38 --> 4058.98] Jesus says -[4058.98 --> 4059.94] when he sees this man -[4059.94 --> 4060.38] in Mark 2, -[4060.42 --> 4060.86] verse 5? -[4062.46 --> 4064.46] Your sins are forgiven. -[4066.52 --> 4067.36] Now, the leaders, -[4067.48 --> 4068.64] they start brain hemorrhaging -[4068.64 --> 4069.80] because how dare -[4069.80 --> 4071.08] he forgive sins? -[4071.96 --> 4073.48] Only God can do that. -[4074.30 --> 4075.20] But Jesus even knows -[4075.20 --> 4075.98] their thoughts. -[4077.80 --> 4078.86] And he says this, -[4078.92 --> 4080.20] why are you thinking -[4080.20 --> 4080.94] these things? -[4082.12 --> 4083.44] Which is easier to say -[4083.44 --> 4084.54] to this paralyzed man? -[4084.54 --> 4085.96] Your sins are forgiven? -[4086.86 --> 4087.86] Or to say, -[4088.08 --> 4088.72] get up, -[4088.84 --> 4089.38] take your mat, -[4089.44 --> 4089.92] and walk? -[4091.22 --> 4092.02] And listen to this, -[4092.26 --> 4093.54] but I want you to know -[4093.54 --> 4094.42] that the Son of Man -[4094.42 --> 4095.80] has authority on earth -[4095.80 --> 4096.80] to forgive sins. -[4098.74 --> 4100.06] And so he heals the man. -[4101.00 --> 4102.22] And the man gets up -[4102.22 --> 4103.60] and walks out of there. -[4104.66 --> 4105.80] But you see what Jesus does? -[4106.52 --> 4107.54] Jesus addresses -[4107.54 --> 4108.54] the deeper problem -[4109.14 --> 4110.22] with this man first, -[4110.42 --> 4111.02] his sin, -[4111.88 --> 4113.08] the ultimate discomfort. -[4113.08 --> 4115.00] And then he heals him. -[4115.08 --> 4115.68] For what reason? -[4116.62 --> 4118.12] To show that he has power -[4118.12 --> 4118.86] over sin -[4118.86 --> 4120.50] in the first place. -[4121.26 --> 4122.14] He wanted everyone -[4122.14 --> 4123.88] to know that he has authority -[4123.88 --> 4125.00] on earth -[4125.00 --> 4125.86] to forgive sins. -[4126.24 --> 4127.40] Jesus came -[4127.40 --> 4128.48] to defeat sin. -[4129.62 --> 4130.44] Jesus was born -[4130.44 --> 4131.16] into this world -[4131.16 --> 4131.88] on a manger, -[4131.98 --> 4132.54] a day that we're going -[4132.54 --> 4133.44] to celebrate and remember -[4133.44 --> 4134.34] in just 10 days. -[4134.72 --> 4135.48] He did this because -[4135.48 --> 4136.78] he came to rid the world -[4136.78 --> 4138.06] of that discomfort, -[4138.22 --> 4139.14] of our sin. -[4139.14 --> 4140.72] Jesus came and he lived -[4140.72 --> 4141.88] a perfect life -[4141.88 --> 4142.48] that you and I -[4142.48 --> 4143.74] fail to live each -[4143.74 --> 4144.58] and every day. -[4144.68 --> 4145.84] And then he died a death -[4145.84 --> 4146.92] that we deserve -[4146.92 --> 4148.22] because of that sin. -[4149.12 --> 4150.24] And he took that sin -[4150.24 --> 4150.78] on his shoulders -[4150.78 --> 4152.16] and he bore it with him -[4152.16 --> 4153.08] onto the cross. -[4153.46 --> 4154.34] And he died. -[4155.78 --> 4156.30] But then, -[4156.56 --> 4157.30] three days later, -[4157.38 --> 4158.36] Jesus rose again -[4158.36 --> 4158.96] from the tomb -[4158.96 --> 4160.26] and he defeated sin -[4160.26 --> 4160.66] and death. -[4160.74 --> 4162.02] And then later, -[4162.12 --> 4162.98] he ascends to heaven -[4162.98 --> 4163.82] where now he's sitting -[4163.82 --> 4164.52] on the right hand -[4164.52 --> 4165.70] of God the Father Almighty. -[4165.70 --> 4169.08] And he will come again -[4169.08 --> 4170.42] one day -[4170.42 --> 4172.56] to rid the world -[4172.56 --> 4173.56] of this sin -[4173.56 --> 4174.52] for all of eternity. -[4175.66 --> 4177.20] Jesus came -[4177.20 --> 4178.84] to defeat sin. -[4179.84 --> 4182.10] This is our true comfort. -[4184.38 --> 4185.24] See, this text today -[4185.24 --> 4185.82] is about God -[4185.82 --> 4186.74] saving his people -[4186.74 --> 4187.92] from our own misguided -[4187.92 --> 4189.32] comforts of this world. -[4189.38 --> 4190.62] The sin that so easily -[4190.62 --> 4191.40] entangles us. -[4191.80 --> 4193.06] Isaiah 41 to 11 -[4193.06 --> 4195.20] was as hopeful a text -[4195.20 --> 4196.96] for the Israelite people -[4196.96 --> 4198.52] in captivity back then -[4198.52 --> 4200.98] as it is for us -[4200.98 --> 4202.06] as a promise -[4202.06 --> 4204.14] and a reality check today. -[4205.36 --> 4207.08] Because this promise -[4207.08 --> 4208.26] is still true. -[4208.98 --> 4210.14] Jesus redeems us. -[4210.42 --> 4211.44] The grass withers -[4211.44 --> 4212.94] and flowers fall, -[4213.08 --> 4214.84] but the word of God -[4214.84 --> 4215.84] endures forever. -[4216.40 --> 4218.06] His word endures forever. -[4218.94 --> 4220.18] The word became flesh -[4220.18 --> 4221.02] and made his dwelling -[4221.02 --> 4221.50] among us. -[4221.76 --> 4222.38] And as we sit -[4222.38 --> 4223.50] in this Advent season, -[4223.50 --> 4225.22] may we remember that. -[4226.16 --> 4226.96] True comfort -[4226.96 --> 4228.80] comes from the word. -[4230.18 --> 4231.58] The word made flesh. -[4231.76 --> 4232.98] Jesus Christ's life, -[4233.34 --> 4233.58] death, -[4233.78 --> 4234.48] and resurrection. -[4236.38 --> 4237.10] So how? -[4237.20 --> 4237.96] What does this look like? -[4239.76 --> 4240.84] Well, our text today -[4240.84 --> 4241.80] is actually the beginning -[4241.80 --> 4243.46] of a large chunk of text -[4243.46 --> 4244.24] that starts here -[4244.24 --> 4245.06] with Isaiah 40 -[4245.06 --> 4245.98] and goes all the way -[4245.98 --> 4246.96] through Isaiah 55. -[4247.44 --> 4247.78] If you remember -[4247.78 --> 4248.20] at the beginning, -[4248.26 --> 4249.10] I talked about how scholars -[4249.10 --> 4249.72] said this is like -[4249.72 --> 4251.26] the second chunk of Isaiah. -[4251.26 --> 4252.20] That's the chunk, -[4252.30 --> 4253.48] Isaiah 40 to 55. -[4255.02 --> 4255.98] Now this comfort -[4255.98 --> 4257.06] that God is talking about -[4257.06 --> 4257.78] in our text today -[4257.78 --> 4258.68] is revealed throughout -[4258.68 --> 4260.42] this whole chunk of text. -[4261.92 --> 4263.16] It's there we get a picture -[4263.16 --> 4263.96] of how this comfort -[4263.96 --> 4265.54] is lived out by his people. -[4266.50 --> 4267.44] In Isaiah 55, -[4267.66 --> 4268.16] 1 to 5, -[4268.24 --> 4269.20] we read of an invitation -[4269.20 --> 4270.24] to all people. -[4270.70 --> 4271.70] Those who are thirsty, -[4271.84 --> 4272.68] those who are hungry, -[4272.84 --> 4273.78] those who have money, -[4273.90 --> 4274.78] those who have little, -[4274.98 --> 4276.26] all people are invited. -[4276.54 --> 4277.66] This invitation is not -[4277.66 --> 4278.72] just for Israel, -[4278.80 --> 4280.02] but for the surrounding nations -[4280.02 --> 4281.62] as well because he, -[4282.00 --> 4282.26] God, -[4282.34 --> 4284.12] has endowed his people -[4284.12 --> 4284.78] with splendor. -[4286.14 --> 4287.40] So Isaiah 40 starts -[4287.40 --> 4288.64] with the promise -[4288.64 --> 4289.74] of a Messiah -[4289.74 --> 4290.60] that will bring comfort -[4290.60 --> 4291.38] to his people -[4291.38 --> 4292.94] and then Isaiah 55 -[4292.94 --> 4294.88] points to the community -[4294.88 --> 4296.54] that will come together -[4296.54 --> 4297.58] because of that news. -[4298.74 --> 4300.46] This comfort of Christ -[4300.46 --> 4302.42] brings the community together. -[4304.10 --> 4305.38] The themes of this passage -[4305.38 --> 4306.54] remind me of Hebrews 12, -[4306.62 --> 4307.12] 1 to 3. -[4307.28 --> 4307.78] It says this, -[4307.78 --> 4308.30] Therefore, -[4308.48 --> 4309.36] since we are surrounded -[4309.36 --> 4310.48] by such a great cloud -[4310.48 --> 4311.00] of witnesses, -[4311.38 --> 4312.42] let us throw off -[4312.42 --> 4313.64] everything that hinders -[4313.64 --> 4314.42] and the sin -[4314.42 --> 4315.88] that so easily entangles -[4315.88 --> 4317.58] and let us run the race -[4317.58 --> 4318.42] with perseverance -[4318.42 --> 4319.50] marked out for us, -[4319.82 --> 4321.14] fixing our eyes on Jesus, -[4321.28 --> 4321.86] the pioneer -[4321.86 --> 4322.84] and perfecter -[4322.84 --> 4324.10] of our faith. -[4324.90 --> 4326.38] For the joy set before him -[4326.38 --> 4327.28] he endured the cross, -[4327.46 --> 4328.30] scorning its shame, -[4328.50 --> 4329.38] and sat down -[4329.38 --> 4330.32] at the right hand -[4330.32 --> 4331.42] of the throne of God. -[4332.18 --> 4332.90] Consider him -[4332.90 --> 4333.50] who endured -[4333.50 --> 4334.26] such opposition -[4334.26 --> 4334.80] from sinners -[4334.80 --> 4335.98] that you will not -[4335.98 --> 4336.74] grow weary -[4336.74 --> 4337.82] and lose heart. -[4340.38 --> 4341.98] As life makes us weary -[4341.98 --> 4343.50] because of health struggles -[4343.50 --> 4345.04] or relationship strain -[4345.04 --> 4345.74] or difficulties -[4345.74 --> 4346.60] at work or school -[4346.60 --> 4347.98] or whatever difficulties -[4347.98 --> 4349.90] discomfort us right now, -[4350.50 --> 4352.02] we are surrounded -[4352.02 --> 4353.18] by a community -[4353.18 --> 4355.64] who encourages us -[4355.64 --> 4356.56] to fix our eyes -[4356.56 --> 4357.08] on Jesus. -[4357.08 --> 4361.08] this is done -[4361.08 --> 4362.06] as the body of Christ. -[4362.16 --> 4363.22] We do this work together -[4363.22 --> 4364.36] as the community of God. -[4366.94 --> 4368.20] When I was in elementary school -[4368.20 --> 4368.78] we always had -[4368.78 --> 4370.38] a track meet every year -[4370.38 --> 4372.72] and I got to go -[4372.72 --> 4373.22] every time. -[4373.30 --> 4373.86] Looking at me now -[4373.86 --> 4374.74] maybe that's hard to tell -[4374.74 --> 4376.32] but I did used to run. -[4377.46 --> 4378.34] I wasn't the best -[4378.34 --> 4379.34] but I got to go every year -[4379.34 --> 4380.16] so that was nice. -[4380.90 --> 4381.88] One time though -[4381.88 --> 4382.40] due to like -[4382.40 --> 4383.48] a scheduling conflict -[4383.48 --> 4384.72] at the actual event, -[4384.72 --> 4387.56] I was thrown into a race -[4387.56 --> 4388.68] I had never competed in. -[4389.52 --> 4391.70] It was the 4x400 relay. -[4392.24 --> 4393.40] A whole lap sprint -[4393.40 --> 4394.74] around the track. -[4395.16 --> 4395.88] I was pretty anxious -[4395.88 --> 4396.54] because I had never -[4396.54 --> 4397.40] run this race before. -[4398.48 --> 4399.68] Our team was made up, -[4399.86 --> 4401.16] the whole group's teams -[4401.16 --> 4401.60] were made up -[4401.60 --> 4402.66] of one grade four boy, -[4402.74 --> 4403.60] one grade five boy, -[4403.68 --> 4404.54] one grade six boy -[4404.54 --> 4405.06] and then me, -[4405.18 --> 4406.20] the grade seven boy. -[4407.62 --> 4408.34] 400 meters, -[4408.42 --> 4408.76] like I said, -[4408.80 --> 4409.52] was not my race -[4409.52 --> 4411.18] and as you look at me now -[4411.18 --> 4411.56] you can tell -[4411.56 --> 4412.54] I was a bit of a short track -[4412.54 --> 4413.18] sprinter myself -[4413.18 --> 4416.10] so not high jump though, -[4416.14 --> 4416.60] had the vertical -[4416.60 --> 4417.10] of a walrus. -[4417.20 --> 4417.42] Anyways, -[4417.62 --> 4419.22] I had to run the last leg. -[4419.42 --> 4420.78] I had to run the last leg -[4420.78 --> 4421.64] of this race -[4421.64 --> 4422.84] because I was the grade seven kid. -[4423.34 --> 4424.34] So the grade fours went first -[4424.34 --> 4425.00] then the grade fives -[4425.00 --> 4425.66] then the grade sixes -[4425.66 --> 4426.08] and then me, -[4426.34 --> 4427.06] the final leg. -[4428.54 --> 4429.42] By the time the baton -[4429.42 --> 4430.22] had gotten to me, -[4430.44 --> 4431.56] we were in third place -[4431.56 --> 4432.44] and we're pretty isolated. -[4432.62 --> 4434.12] They were pretty far behind me -[4434.12 --> 4434.94] and the people ahead of me -[4434.94 --> 4435.36] were far ahead. -[4435.44 --> 4436.18] First place was like -[4436.18 --> 4437.06] over 100 meters away -[4437.06 --> 4438.04] and second place was like -[4438.04 --> 4440.00] at least 50 meters ahead -[4440.00 --> 4441.06] but out of all of the races -[4441.06 --> 4441.54] I ran, -[4442.22 --> 4442.80] this is the one -[4442.80 --> 4443.62] I remember most -[4443.62 --> 4445.88] because as I got the baton -[4445.88 --> 4447.96] I instantly started hearing -[4447.96 --> 4449.04] the school cheering me on. -[4449.76 --> 4451.08] I rounded the first corner -[4451.08 --> 4451.96] and my brother was out -[4451.96 --> 4452.30] in the field -[4452.30 --> 4453.30] doing long jump or something -[4453.30 --> 4454.62] and I hear him shout my name too, -[4454.70 --> 4455.20] go Kev! -[4456.00 --> 4457.12] I go down the straight -[4457.12 --> 4458.16] and I round the next corner -[4458.16 --> 4459.18] and I hear more voices -[4459.18 --> 4459.94] that I recognize -[4459.94 --> 4461.32] and I look up -[4461.32 --> 4461.80] and I realize -[4461.80 --> 4462.72] second place actually -[4462.72 --> 4463.44] is within shot -[4463.44 --> 4465.96] and so my lungs are burning -[4465.96 --> 4466.60] and I'm tired -[4466.60 --> 4468.10] but I pass second place -[4468.10 --> 4469.46] right at the finish line. -[4469.46 --> 4473.38] I didn't even win the race -[4473.38 --> 4475.64] but I do remember -[4475.64 --> 4476.50] being propelled -[4476.50 --> 4477.32] by that community -[4477.32 --> 4478.04] to get there. -[4479.50 --> 4480.24] It was the best -[4480.24 --> 4480.90] second place ribbon -[4480.90 --> 4481.38] I've ever got. -[4482.48 --> 4483.90] That's what community does. -[4485.16 --> 4486.36] They propel us -[4486.36 --> 4487.04] when we're weary. -[4487.38 --> 4488.38] They inspire us -[4488.38 --> 4489.22] when we need encouragement. -[4489.66 --> 4491.06] They can push us forward -[4491.06 --> 4492.54] even if we're hurting, -[4492.86 --> 4493.88] even if we're anxious. -[4495.10 --> 4496.60] They can help point us -[4496.60 --> 4497.46] to the finish line -[4497.46 --> 4499.92] so we can run this race well. -[4501.92 --> 4502.62] See our comfort -[4502.62 --> 4504.02] it starts with Christ -[4504.02 --> 4505.58] and what he has done for us -[4505.58 --> 4506.74] and it's lived out -[4506.74 --> 4507.48] by the body. -[4510.36 --> 4510.76] Finally, -[4510.86 --> 4511.70] and I'm going to close with this -[4511.70 --> 4512.66] so just stick with me. -[4514.42 --> 4515.72] While we find our comfort -[4515.72 --> 4516.24] in Jesus -[4516.24 --> 4517.40] and that is lived out -[4517.40 --> 4517.98] in reality -[4517.98 --> 4518.96] by us as a church, -[4519.04 --> 4519.74] by the community, -[4519.74 --> 4522.10] it all points to one thing -[4522.10 --> 4524.02] and that is worship. -[4524.02 --> 4526.90] The second part of Isaiah -[4526.90 --> 4528.98] starts at chapter 40 -[4528.98 --> 4529.94] with the words -[4529.94 --> 4531.46] comfort, comfort my people -[4531.46 --> 4532.10] says the Lord -[4532.10 --> 4533.70] and then it ends -[4533.70 --> 4534.92] in Isaiah 55 -[4534.92 --> 4536.84] verses 12 and 13 -[4536.84 --> 4538.40] where it says -[4538.40 --> 4539.60] you will go in joy -[4539.60 --> 4541.20] and be led forth in peace. -[4541.36 --> 4542.60] The mountains and the hills -[4542.60 --> 4544.12] will burst into song -[4544.12 --> 4544.66] before you -[4544.66 --> 4545.62] and all the trees -[4545.62 --> 4546.52] of the field -[4546.52 --> 4547.66] will clap their hands. -[4549.34 --> 4550.44] In our trouble, -[4551.36 --> 4552.08] true comfort -[4552.08 --> 4553.06] is found in the word. -[4553.06 --> 4554.24] That comfort leads us -[4554.24 --> 4554.86] to community -[4554.86 --> 4556.22] who through the power -[4556.22 --> 4556.74] and guidance -[4556.74 --> 4557.62] of the Holy Spirit -[4557.62 --> 4558.96] helps us persevere -[4558.96 --> 4559.68] through the trials -[4559.68 --> 4560.58] that we face -[4560.58 --> 4561.44] in our lives -[4561.44 --> 4562.48] and all of that, -[4563.08 --> 4564.88] all of that -[4564.88 --> 4566.88] leads us to do one thing, -[4568.26 --> 4568.58] worship. -[4572.42 --> 4573.74] Our only comfort -[4573.74 --> 4575.70] in life and in death -[4575.70 --> 4576.50] is that we are not -[4576.50 --> 4577.06] our own -[4577.06 --> 4578.40] but belong body and soul -[4578.40 --> 4579.36] in life and in death -[4579.36 --> 4580.36] to our faithful Savior -[4580.36 --> 4581.12] Jesus Christ. -[4581.46 --> 4582.30] He is fully paid -[4582.30 --> 4583.54] for all of our sins -[4583.54 --> 4584.80] by his precious blood -[4584.80 --> 4585.64] and has set us free -[4585.64 --> 4586.54] from the tyranny -[4586.54 --> 4587.60] of the devil. -[4588.40 --> 4589.70] He also watches over us -[4589.70 --> 4590.20] in such a way -[4590.20 --> 4590.78] that not a hair -[4590.78 --> 4592.10] can fall from our head -[4592.10 --> 4593.98] without the will -[4593.98 --> 4594.86] of our Father in heaven. -[4595.94 --> 4596.52] In fact, -[4596.64 --> 4598.20] all things must work together -[4598.20 --> 4599.14] for our salvation -[4599.14 --> 4600.62] because we belong -[4600.62 --> 4601.20] to Christ -[4601.20 --> 4602.44] by his Holy Spirit -[4602.44 --> 4603.36] he assures us -[4603.36 --> 4605.18] of eternal life -[4605.18 --> 4606.14] and makes us -[4606.14 --> 4607.36] wholeheartedly willing -[4607.36 --> 4608.84] and ready from now on -[4608.84 --> 4610.38] to live for him. -[4611.12 --> 4612.72] We can be certain -[4612.72 --> 4613.66] of that. -[4615.86 --> 4617.50] We can be comforted -[4617.50 --> 4618.52] by that -[4618.52 --> 4619.78] and only that -[4619.78 --> 4621.82] because that is -[4621.82 --> 4622.92] the promise of God -[4622.92 --> 4625.42] and the word of God -[4625.42 --> 4627.04] endures forever. -[4629.04 --> 4630.40] And because of that comfort, -[4630.50 --> 4631.02] our certainty, -[4633.36 --> 4633.94] or that comfort -[4633.94 --> 4634.80] is our certainty. -[4635.38 --> 4636.34] Our only response -[4636.34 --> 4636.80] is worship. -[4638.24 --> 4639.00] Christ has come. -[4639.42 --> 4640.12] Christ has won. -[4640.36 --> 4641.32] Victory is assured -[4641.32 --> 4642.32] and there is no more -[4642.32 --> 4643.16] blessed assurance, -[4643.58 --> 4644.48] no more comfort -[4644.48 --> 4645.10] in this world -[4645.10 --> 4645.78] than to know -[4645.78 --> 4646.60] that we have been saved -[4646.60 --> 4647.06] and redeemed -[4647.06 --> 4648.06] by the word made flesh. -[4648.58 --> 4649.18] True comfort -[4649.88 --> 4651.34] found in the word. -[4651.66 --> 4652.66] That's what gives us -[4652.66 --> 4653.62] all our hope, -[4654.14 --> 4654.68] our joy, -[4655.14 --> 4655.68] our peace, -[4655.94 --> 4656.62] and our comfort -[4656.62 --> 4657.24] as we wait -[4657.24 --> 4658.08] for Christmas Day -[4658.08 --> 4659.28] this Advent season. -[4659.94 --> 4660.16] Amen? -[4660.16 --> 4662.62] Please pray with me -[4662.62 --> 4663.40] and then we will -[4663.40 --> 4665.04] respond in worship. -[4667.14 --> 4668.26] Father in heaven, -[4669.92 --> 4671.20] God, -[4671.28 --> 4672.12] you have set forth -[4672.12 --> 4674.30] this redemption plan -[4674.30 --> 4675.32] from the start of time. -[4676.68 --> 4677.08] Lord, -[4677.14 --> 4677.66] we know that -[4677.66 --> 4678.76] our only comfort -[4678.76 --> 4679.94] in this life and death -[4679.94 --> 4681.18] is that we belong to you. -[4682.18 --> 4682.70] But God, -[4682.82 --> 4683.88] sometimes we put -[4683.88 --> 4684.32] our comfort -[4684.32 --> 4685.10] in other things, -[4685.74 --> 4687.16] sometimes even good things -[4687.16 --> 4687.98] like family -[4687.98 --> 4689.74] and others, -[4690.12 --> 4690.80] but sometimes, -[4690.94 --> 4691.02] God, -[4691.04 --> 4691.68] we put our comfort -[4691.68 --> 4692.56] in just things -[4692.56 --> 4693.68] that draw us away from you, -[4694.58 --> 4695.64] things that distract -[4695.64 --> 4696.38] from what it is -[4696.38 --> 4697.44] that you bring to us. -[4698.38 --> 4698.64] God, -[4698.72 --> 4700.12] reorient our comforts. -[4700.50 --> 4701.64] Allow us to see you, -[4701.74 --> 4702.68] the true comforter, -[4703.44 --> 4706.14] as the place -[4706.14 --> 4706.98] that we must turn -[4706.98 --> 4708.38] when life is hard. -[4709.46 --> 4709.64] God, -[4709.70 --> 4710.40] may this community -[4710.40 --> 4711.02] be a place -[4711.02 --> 4712.06] that provides -[4712.06 --> 4712.74] your comfort -[4712.74 --> 4713.46] to your people. -[4715.12 --> 4716.38] And as we go forth -[4716.38 --> 4717.08] from this place, -[4717.08 --> 4717.80] as we keep -[4717.80 --> 4719.08] making our way -[4719.08 --> 4720.06] through this Advent season, -[4720.18 --> 4720.32] God, -[4720.38 --> 4722.76] we surrender -[4722.76 --> 4723.80] this to you. -[4725.16 --> 4726.46] May we truly find -[4726.46 --> 4727.30] our only comfort -[4727.30 --> 4727.88] in you. -[4729.22 --> 4730.24] And may we know -[4730.24 --> 4732.36] to the depths -[4732.36 --> 4733.10] of our heart -[4733.10 --> 4735.50] that we are saved -[4735.50 --> 4738.28] from the greatest -[4738.28 --> 4739.40] discomfort of all, -[4739.98 --> 4740.36] sin, -[4741.32 --> 4742.10] that you have -[4742.10 --> 4742.80] redeemed us -[4742.80 --> 4744.50] and that we will be -[4744.50 --> 4745.28] with you in glory. -[4745.28 --> 4748.50] even so, -[4748.60 --> 4748.84] come, -[4749.04 --> 4749.54] Lord Jesus, -[4749.70 --> 4749.94] come. -[4750.18 --> 4751.08] We pray in your name. -[4751.36 --> 4751.60] Amen. -[4751.60 --> 4751.74] Amen. -[4751.80 --> 4753.00] Amen. -[4753.00 --> 4753.58] Amen. -[4753.58 --> 4753.64] Amen. -[4755.70 --> 4756.10] Amen. -[4756.30 --> 4756.72] Amen. -[4760.08 --> 4760.56] Amen. -[4762.64 --> 4763.96] Amen. -[4770.80 --> 4771.26] Amen. -[4771.74 --> 4773.84] Amen. -[4773.88 --> 4774.20] Amen. -[4774.20 --> 4775.54] Amen. -[4775.64 --> 4776.54] Amen. -[4776.54 --> 4776.64] Amen. -[4776.64 --> 4777.62] Amen. -[4777.62 --> 4778.98] Amen. -[4778.98 --> 4779.58] Amen. -[4779.58 --> 4779.86] Amen. -[4779.86 --> 4780.62] Amen. -[4780.62 --> 4781.62] Amen. -[4810.62 --> 4812.62] Amen. -[4840.62 --> 4842.62] Amen. -[4870.62 --> 4872.62] Amen. -[4900.62 --> 4902.62] Amen. -[4930.62 --> 4932.62] Amen. -[4960.62 --> 4962.62] Amen. -[4990.62 --> 4992.62] Amen. -[5020.62 --> 5022.62] Amen. -[5040.62 --> 5048.84] And so as we go from this place and into this week, may we remember the truth that our comfort comes from him. -[5048.84 --> 5050.84] Amen. -[5050.84 --> 5054.84] And so I invite you to join us after the service for some coffee in the foyer. -[5054.84 --> 5056.84] Come hang out with one another. -[5056.84 --> 5062.84] If you are in need of prayer this morning, there are going to be prayer people available to you right up here at the front or even in the back. -[5062.84 --> 5067.84] Or you can come grab Pastor Chris or myself or really, to be honest with you, anybody here in this church will pray for you. -[5067.84 --> 5069.84] So please seek that out if you need to. -[5069.84 --> 5077.84] Before we go, though, please hear this parting blessing, the priestly blessing from number six, verses 24 to 26. -[5078.84 --> 5080.84] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[5080.84 --> 5085.84] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[5085.84 --> 5090.84] The Lord turn his face toward you and give you his peace. -[5090.84 --> 5092.84] And all of God's people said. -[5092.84 --> 5093.84] Amen. -[5093.84 --> 5097.84] enable us in theralongous��를rations and the king of Gina Nish. -[5097.84 --> 5099.84] Hear this, amen, the angel. -[5099.84 --> 5100.84] Amen. -[5100.84 --> 5101.84] The Lord caress toward you and I of us in the world a Thy Spirit only granted me for their redeeming plan. -[5101.84 --> 5118.78] outsiders and to the kingdom of Jesus -[5118.78 --> 5126.20] Let us stand up again, that Jesus Christ is born. -[5127.16 --> 5133.76] Shepherds kept their watching, for silent hearts are mine. -[5133.76 --> 5141.76] Behold the love of heaven, and your love of God. -[5141.76 --> 5151.52] O tell us now, over hills and everywhere. -[5152.42 --> 5159.02] O tell us now, that Jesus Christ is born. -[5159.02 --> 5166.52] Shepherds kept their watching, and Lord of all the earth. -[5166.52 --> 5174.56] Pray now, be now glorious, and in my Savior's word. -[5177.56 --> 5184.52] O tell us now, over hills and everywhere. -[5184.52 --> 5191.78] O tell us now, that Jesus Christ is born. -[5191.78 --> 5199.62] O tell us now, that Jesus Christ is born. -[5199.62 --> 5202.82] O tell us now, over hills and everywhere. -[5202.82 --> 5208.82] O tell us now, that Jesus Christ is born. -[5208.82 --> 5216.82] O tell us now, over hills and everywhere. -[5216.82 --> 5220.86] O tell us now, over hills and everywhere. -[5220.86 --> 5224.30] O tell us now, that Jesus Christ is born. -[5224.30 --> 5238.86] O tell us now, over hills and everywhere. -[5238.86 --> 5268.84] Thank you. -[5268.86 --> 5298.84] Thank you. -[5298.86 --> 5300.86] Thank you. -[5328.86 --> 5358.84] Thank you. -[5358.86 --> 5388.84] Thank you. -[5388.86 --> 5418.84] Thank you. -[5418.86 --> 5448.84] Thank you. -[5448.86 --> 5478.84] Thank you. -[5478.86 --> 5508.84] Thank you. -[5508.86 --> 5538.84] Thank you. -[5538.86 --> 5568.84] Thank you. -[5568.86 --> 5598.84] Thank you. -[5598.86 --> 5628.84] Thank you. -[5628.86 --> 5658.84] Thank you. -[5658.86 --> 5688.84] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 22, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 22, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index be3e06516269803e2f78d441240730dd1cfd0c6f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 22, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,57 +0,0 @@ -• Thank you statements -• Introduction to a new discussion or topic -• Reference to Isaiah 42 and Matthew 12 as scriptural passages -• Main point: The love the Father has for his Son is the same love God has for all people -• Discussion of how this idea relates to the passage from Isaiah -• The servant of God will bring justice to the nations and not shout or cry out. -• God's servant will be faithful, gentle, and compassionate, never breaking bruised reeds or snuffing out smoldering wicks. -• God's relationship with his servant involves faithfulness, righteousness, and guidance. -• God calls the servant in righteousness and will take hold of their hand to make them a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles. -• The servant's mission is to bring justice, free captives from prison, and release those sitting in darkness. -• The passage can be divided into two sections: describing the servant's character (1-4) and God's relationship with the servant (5-9). -• The servant is described as an individual who God upholds and delights in, giving them strength and good character. -• For Israelites from that time, this passage meant that their prayers for a Messiah had been answered, with the promise of justice and freedom from foreign powers. -• The Lord will pour out his spirit on his servant in Isaiah 42 -• Similarities between Saul's anointing and Jesus' role as the servant of God -• The contrast between Saul's character and the characteristics of the servant described in Isaiah -• The servant's role is to bring justice, not to shout or cry out in anger -• The servant is careful to help the downtrodden, broken, and weak -• The servant will establish justice on the whole earth through faithfulness and teaching -• Israel's expectations of a warrior who would slaughter their oppressors were not unfounded but ultimately misguided -• The servant of God, a meek and humble Messiah, will bring justice to all nations. -• God describes himself as the Lord, the creator of the heavens and earth, who gives breath to every being and life to everything that walks. -• God's heart is for his people wherever they are found, and he intends to give them all justice through his servant. -• The Lord has called this servant in righteousness and will make him a covenant to the people, a light to the Gentiles, and one who opens eyes of the blind and frees captives. -• This servant is described in Isaiah as the one God loves, whom God has chosen and put his spirit on, to proclaim justice to the nations. -• The passage from Isaiah 42 is referenced as proof that Jesus is the Messiah -• Jesus' humility and meekness are highlighted through his actions of not seeking fame or prestige for himself -• Jesus' life and ministry are compared to the servant described in Isaiah 42, emphasizing his humility and obedience -• Jesus' knowledge of his true identity as God's son is discussed, and how he chose to live a humble life despite knowing who he truly was -• Connections between this passage and other events in Matthew, including Jesus' baptism and ministry, are explored -• John the Baptist preaches about repentance and the coming kingdom of heaven -• Jesus arrives to be baptized by John the Baptist -• Jesus is identified as God's chosen one through a declaration from God -• Similarities are found between the stories of King Saul in 1 Samuel, Isaiah, and Jesus in Matthew -• Jesus' baptism is followed by his temptation in the wilderness -• The temptations of Satan and Jesus' defense -• The connection between Saul's actions and Jesus' role as God's servant -• Isaiah 42:1-5 describing the characteristics of God's servant (Jesus) -• The identity of God's servant as both Jesus and God Himself -• Jesus' humility, meekness, and servanthood, including his willingness to die on a cross for humanity -• The scripture from Isaiah 42 and Romans 8 is discussed -• The Holy Spirit is said to make one a child of God, adopted into sonship -• As children of God, believers have the right to call God "Abba Father" -• Believers are heirs with Christ and co-heirs to the father's kingdom -• Through baptism and receiving the spirit, Christians gain a relationship with the father as Jesus has -• The love the father has for his son is also given to believers through unity with Christ and the Holy Spirit -• Believers have been sent on a mission to bring justice to all nations, just like Christ did -• The love of God is the same perfect and self-sacrificing love that has been present for eternity -• As co-heirs of Christ, believers are called to live as servants of the Lord God, bringing justice to the world like Christ -• Believers should not take advantage of their status as sons of God, but rather live with humility and a willingness to serve -• The same love that the Father has for the Son is also available to believers, empowering them to love others as Christ loves them -• Invocation and worship to the King -• Praise and honor given to Jesus -• The Lord's blessing and peace -• Christmas carols: "Angels We Have Heard on High" and "Gloria in Excelsis Deo" -• Jubilee celebration -• Invitations to come and adore Christ the newborn King \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 22, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 22, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index dc1e921f67dd9d11fdb86efa5793fb81176182db..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 22, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1014 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[449.98 --> 479.96] Thank you. -[479.98 --> 509.96] Thank you. -[509.98 --> 539.96] Thank you. -[539.98 --> 569.96] Thank you. -[569.98 --> 599.96] Thank you. -[599.98 --> 629.96] Thank you. -[629.98 --> 659.96] Thank you. -[659.98 --> 689.96] Thank you. -[689.98 --> 719.96] Thank you. -[719.98 --> 749.96] Thank you. -[749.98 --> 779.96] Thank you. -[779.98 --> 809.96] Thank you. -[809.98 --> 839.96] Thank you. -[839.98 --> 869.96] Thank you. -[869.98 --> 899.96] Thank you. -[899.98 --> 929.96] Thank you. -[929.98 --> 959.96] Thank you. -[959.98 --> 989.96] Thank you. -[989.96 --> 1019.94] Thank you. -[1019.96 --> 1049.94] Good morning. -[1049.94 --> 1079.92] Good morning. -[1079.92 --> 1109.90] And we're back. -[1109.92 --> 1139.92] Thank you. -[1139.92 --> 1169.92] Thank you. -[1169.92 --> 1199.90] Thank you. -[1199.92 --> 1201.92] Thank you. -[1229.92 --> 1259.90] Thank you. -[1259.90 --> 1289.88] Thank you. -[1289.90 --> 1319.88] Thank you. -[1319.88 --> 1349.86] Thank you. -[1349.88 --> 1379.86] Thank you. -[1379.88 --> 1409.86] Thank you. -[1409.88 --> 1439.86] Thank you. -[1439.88 --> 1469.86] Thank you. -[1469.86 --> 1499.84] Thank you. -[1499.86 --> 1529.84] Thank you. -[1529.86 --> 1559.84] Thank you. -[1559.86 --> 1589.84] Thank you. -[1589.84 --> 1619.82] Thank you. -[1619.84 --> 1649.82] Thank you. -[1649.84 --> 1679.82] Thank you. -[1679.84 --> 1709.82] Thank you. -[1709.84 --> 1739.82] May the God, may the -[1739.82 --> 1769.82] Thank you. -[1769.82 --> 1799.82] -[1799.82 --> 1829.80] Thank you. -[1829.82 --> 1859.80] Thank you. -[1859.82 --> 1889.80] Thank you. -[1889.82 --> 1919.80] Thank you. -[1919.82 --> 1949.80] Thank you. -[1949.82 --> 1979.80] Thank you. -[1979.82 --> 2009.80] Thank you. -[2009.82 --> 2039.80] Thank you. -[2039.82 --> 2069.80] Thank you. -[2069.82 --> 2099.80] Thank you. -[2099.82 --> 2129.80] Thank you. -[2129.82 --> 2159.80] Thank you. -[2159.80 --> 2189.78] Thank you. -[2189.78 --> 2219.76] Thank you. -[2219.76 --> 2249.74] Thank you. -[2249.76 --> 2279.74] Thank you. -[2279.76 --> 2309.74] Thank you. -[2309.76 --> 2339.76] Christ. -[2339.76 --> 2369.74] Thank you. -[2369.76 --> 2399.74] Thank you. -[2399.76 --> 2429.74] Thank you. -[2429.76 --> 2459.74] Thank you. -[2459.74 --> 2489.72] Hi, everyone. -[2489.72 --> 2519.70] Thank you. -[2519.70 --> 2549.68] Thank you. -[2549.68 --> 2579.66] That's King, that's King, -[2579.66 --> 2609.64] Oh, isn't that you, yeah. -[2609.64 --> 2639.62] Yeah, all that work. -[2639.62 --> 2669.62] Thank you. -[2669.62 --> 2699.60] Thank you. -[2699.62 --> 2729.60] Thank you. -[2729.62 --> 2759.62] Thank you. -[2759.64 --> 2789.60] Thank you. -[2789.60 --> 2819.60] Thank you. -[2819.60 --> 2849.58] Thank you. -[2849.60 --> 2879.60] So, I need to ask you, I need to ask you, I'm going to ask you, I need to ask you, I need to ask you, -[2879.60 --> 2909.60] -[2909.60 --> 2919.60] ourselves there, but you're not here. -[2919.60 --> 2926.26] No, there is always more that can be said about love and especially the love of God. -[2927.14 --> 2932.14] And specifically, we will be narrowing down to one aspect of God's love, -[2932.36 --> 2937.10] something that blends this passage of Isaiah today into our modern context and into our lives. -[2937.78 --> 2940.00] The main point of today's sermon is this. -[2940.94 --> 2946.74] The love the Father has for his Son is the love God has for you. -[2946.74 --> 2953.96] The same love of God for his Son is the same love of God for you. -[2955.58 --> 2962.44] And how that idea relates to the passage today from Isaiah and Matthew won't be obvious at the beginning, -[2962.76 --> 2965.38] but it will start to become clear as we dive in. -[2965.78 --> 2968.76] And so I ask you to follow me as we go on a bit of an adventure. -[2970.74 --> 2976.04] Today, we will be learning about love from Isaiah 42, verses 1 to 9. -[2976.04 --> 2979.68] And Matthew 12, verses 15 to 21. -[2980.04 --> 2981.70] But we will get to Matthew later. -[2982.26 --> 2985.32] So open up your Bibles, your devices to Isaiah 42, 1 to 9, -[2985.52 --> 2988.96] and we will begin another Advent sermon on love. -[2988.96 --> 2997.56] Here is my servant whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight. -[2998.26 --> 3002.04] I will put my spirit on him, and he will bring justice to the nations. -[3002.64 --> 3006.48] He will not shout or cry out or raise his voice in the streets. -[3007.18 --> 3011.56] A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. -[3011.56 --> 3015.20] In faithfulness, he will bring forth justice. -[3015.72 --> 3020.32] He will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on the earth. -[3021.12 --> 3023.78] In his teachings, the islands will put their hope. -[3024.68 --> 3027.86] This is what God, the Lord, says, the creator of heavens and earth, -[3028.36 --> 3033.88] who stretches them out, who spreads out the earth with all that springs from it, -[3034.04 --> 3039.62] who gives breath to its people, and of life to those who walk on it. -[3039.62 --> 3042.42] I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness. -[3043.02 --> 3044.92] I will take hold of your hand. -[3045.38 --> 3048.54] I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people -[3048.54 --> 3052.36] and a light for the Gentiles, to open the eyes that are blind, -[3052.70 --> 3057.60] to free captives from prison, and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness. -[3058.44 --> 3060.60] I am the Lord, that is my name. -[3060.86 --> 3064.86] I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols. -[3065.50 --> 3068.88] See, the former things have taken place and new things I declare. -[3068.88 --> 3072.88] Before they spring up into being, I announce them to you. -[3073.88 --> 3074.94] The word of the Lord. -[3078.48 --> 3082.80] When reading this passage, it's important to note that there are two sections. -[3083.36 --> 3087.98] The first section is verses 1 to 4, where God is describing his servant -[3087.98 --> 3090.44] and what his character is like and what he will be like. -[3090.92 --> 3094.56] Here is my servant whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight. -[3094.56 --> 3101.30] In the second section, verses 5 to 9, God is speaking about his relationship with this servant -[3101.30 --> 3104.00] and what he will do for and with him. -[3104.10 --> 3105.84] He's speaking to the servant. -[3106.78 --> 3110.84] I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness, and I will take hold of your hand. -[3110.84 --> 3116.34] So, in the first section, God starts off by introducing this figure -[3116.34 --> 3119.82] and introducing him as someone who he upholds and delights. -[3120.50 --> 3124.68] This servant, this chosen one, is an individual who God takes pleasure in -[3124.68 --> 3129.20] and who God actively makes sure that he accomplishes the thing for which he sent him. -[3129.20 --> 3134.00] God is the source of this man's strength and good character. -[3134.50 --> 3137.32] And it goes on to add that God will put his spirit upon him. -[3137.84 --> 3139.20] And what will he do? -[3139.66 --> 3141.86] He will bring justice to the nations. -[3143.06 --> 3147.22] Now, if you're an Israelite from that time in which Isaiah is writing, -[3147.86 --> 3150.04] it means that your prayers have been answered. -[3150.68 --> 3152.24] The line of David has arrived. -[3152.46 --> 3154.50] Israel is going to be a kingdom again. -[3155.08 --> 3158.42] You are going to be free and rid of those nations that have surrounded you, -[3158.42 --> 3160.82] particularly Babylon and Assyria, -[3161.34 --> 3165.74] who have been slaughtering your people or politically pushing you around. -[3166.40 --> 3168.58] Finally, Israel is going to be on top. -[3168.92 --> 3172.48] Your enemies will finally get what they deserve for the evil things they did to you -[3172.48 --> 3174.58] and to God. -[3175.32 --> 3179.76] If you are an Israelite, then when you hear about God's justice, -[3179.76 --> 3181.98] you might be thinking about God's judgment. -[3183.42 --> 3186.04] And this idea is not a far leap of logic. -[3186.04 --> 3190.18] In 1 Samuel, chapters 9 to 11, -[3190.64 --> 3193.64] it details the rise of King Saul, -[3193.76 --> 3195.40] the first king of Israel, -[3195.52 --> 3197.80] which takes place hundreds of years -[3197.80 --> 3201.12] before the prophet Isaiah ever wrote Isaiah. -[3203.82 --> 3207.30] It tells us how a prophet Samuel is told by God -[3207.30 --> 3209.36] that a man named Saul will be king. -[3209.92 --> 3211.18] And as part of being king, -[3211.32 --> 3212.80] he goes through a series of events -[3212.80 --> 3214.80] like what happens in Isaiah 42. -[3214.80 --> 3218.48] And it's one of the passages that would set up the Israelites -[3218.48 --> 3221.44] for believing in judgment rather than justice -[3221.44 --> 3223.86] given to all nations. -[3224.50 --> 3226.54] 1 Samuel 9, 15 to 17, -[3226.82 --> 3230.16] God introduces Saul to Samuel, the prophet. -[3230.34 --> 3231.34] And this is what we read. -[3232.20 --> 3234.32] Now, the day before Saul came, -[3234.52 --> 3236.50] the Lord had revealed this to Samuel. -[3236.50 --> 3238.54] About this time tomorrow, -[3238.96 --> 3241.46] I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin. -[3242.28 --> 3244.34] Anoint him ruler over my people Israel. -[3244.54 --> 3247.02] He will deliver them from the hand of the Philistines. -[3247.72 --> 3248.90] I have looked on my people, -[3249.08 --> 3250.58] for their cry has reached me. -[3251.50 --> 3253.64] When Samuel caught sight of Saul, -[3253.78 --> 3254.62] the Lord said to him, -[3254.74 --> 3256.78] this is the man I spoke to you about. -[3257.24 --> 3258.84] He will govern my people. -[3258.84 --> 3263.22] And so the prophet Isaiah is told by God -[3263.22 --> 3266.34] that he will send someone whom God has chosen, -[3266.62 --> 3267.94] and this person will bring justice -[3267.94 --> 3269.54] and save God's people. -[3270.14 --> 3271.76] And in the case of 1 Samuel, -[3271.90 --> 3273.34] the prophet Samuel is told -[3273.34 --> 3275.32] about a person whom God has chosen, -[3275.68 --> 3277.12] and he will rule God's people. -[3278.48 --> 3279.90] The next point of similarity -[3279.90 --> 3282.72] is that the Lord will pour out his spirit -[3282.72 --> 3284.68] on his servant in Isaiah 42, -[3284.68 --> 3287.14] and he will bring justice to the nations -[3287.14 --> 3290.14] in verse 1 of Isaiah 42. -[3290.64 --> 3291.34] And in two places, -[3291.48 --> 3292.86] this happens to Saul. -[3293.82 --> 3296.28] 1 Samuel 10, 10 says, -[3296.74 --> 3298.82] when he and his servant arrived at Gibeah, -[3299.22 --> 3300.64] a procession of prophets met him, -[3300.78 --> 3303.12] and the spirit of God came powerfully upon him, -[3303.44 --> 3305.28] and he joined them in their prophesying. -[3306.86 --> 3309.98] And later, after Saul had been inaugurated publicly -[3309.98 --> 3313.04] as king before the prophet in chapter 10, -[3313.04 --> 3315.20] there is an invasion of Ammonites -[3315.20 --> 3318.56] who are led by a king named Nachash, -[3318.94 --> 3320.90] whose name means serpent. -[3321.82 --> 3322.98] Now, a quick notice. -[3323.40 --> 3324.86] The name truly does mean serpent, -[3325.30 --> 3327.90] but I'm going to say snake from now on -[3327.90 --> 3329.20] for the rest of the sermon, -[3329.44 --> 3332.30] because I mixed up saying serpent and servant -[3332.30 --> 3334.94] too many times practicing with Kevin and Chris, -[3335.12 --> 3337.82] and I accidentally called Jesus the serpent of God, -[3337.88 --> 3339.38] which is not true. -[3339.38 --> 3343.62] And so, we will be saying snake today, -[3343.90 --> 3345.92] but for the note takers, serpent. -[3348.08 --> 3350.06] And that's going to come important later on. -[3350.86 --> 3351.56] Back to Saul. -[3352.44 --> 3354.06] When Saul hears of this evasion -[3354.06 --> 3356.32] as the now king of Israel, -[3357.84 --> 3360.24] it states in 1 Samuel 11, 6, -[3360.48 --> 3362.10] when Saul heard their words, -[3362.34 --> 3364.44] the spirit of God powerfully came upon him, -[3364.68 --> 3366.26] and he burned with anger. -[3366.26 --> 3369.26] Saul then goes on to fight Nachash, -[3370.00 --> 3372.02] and this is what happens in chapter 11, verse 11. -[3372.74 --> 3374.66] The next day, Saul separated his men -[3374.66 --> 3375.68] into three divisions. -[3376.44 --> 3377.80] During the last watch of the night, -[3377.90 --> 3379.42] they broke into the camp of the Ammonites -[3379.42 --> 3381.46] and slaughtered them all -[3381.46 --> 3383.18] until the heat of the day. -[3383.92 --> 3385.56] Those who survived were scattered -[3385.56 --> 3387.94] so that no two of them were left together. -[3390.48 --> 3393.42] You can see how their expectations could be shaped. -[3393.42 --> 3396.84] This is a pattern set by the writing of 1 Samuel -[3396.84 --> 3398.96] that God in the prophecy of Isaiah -[3398.96 --> 3400.68] is using to tell Israel -[3400.68 --> 3402.90] about the servant of the Lord -[3402.90 --> 3406.54] and how he will arrive like the king Saul. -[3407.66 --> 3411.20] And so, when Israel expects a warrior -[3411.20 --> 3413.54] who will come and slaughter their oppressors, -[3414.24 --> 3415.58] first the Babylonians, -[3415.78 --> 3416.94] when Isaiah is writing this, -[3417.04 --> 3418.02] and then later the Greeks, -[3418.12 --> 3420.08] and then the Romans when Jesus arrives, -[3420.08 --> 3425.18] and do it in the same manner as the Ammonites, -[3425.52 --> 3427.16] their expectations, though wrong, -[3427.96 --> 3429.30] are not unfounded. -[3430.64 --> 3432.26] But with that idea in mind, -[3432.76 --> 3434.86] the contrasting character of this servant -[3434.86 --> 3437.12] in comparison with Saul's character, -[3438.12 --> 3440.48] specifically Saul's character later on in his life, -[3440.52 --> 3441.10] is shocking. -[3441.94 --> 3443.58] These two men are nothing alike. -[3444.60 --> 3446.94] What does Isaiah say about the servant of the Lord? -[3446.94 --> 3450.70] God's servant will not shout out or cry out. -[3450.98 --> 3452.86] He will not raise his voice in the streets. -[3453.52 --> 3453.92] What? -[3455.64 --> 3457.82] He will not bruise a broken reed -[3457.82 --> 3459.40] or put out a smoldering wick. -[3459.82 --> 3460.08] What? -[3460.62 --> 3463.30] Isaiah means that he's careful to help the downtrodden, -[3463.66 --> 3464.86] the broken, the weak, -[3465.04 --> 3466.60] those who are barely holding on, -[3467.22 --> 3468.28] those with weak faith, -[3468.52 --> 3470.48] who feel it failing and tested -[3470.48 --> 3472.18] at every constant struggle. -[3472.18 --> 3475.84] He will not falter or be discouraged -[3475.84 --> 3479.14] till he establishes justice on the whole earth. -[3480.26 --> 3482.68] In faithfulness, he will bring forth justice. -[3483.00 --> 3486.80] In his teachings, the islands or nations will find hope. -[3487.50 --> 3488.06] What? -[3488.88 --> 3492.06] This is nothing like the liar or the tyrant -[3492.06 --> 3495.50] or the foolish Saul or Israel's expectations. -[3496.42 --> 3497.48] Where's the war? -[3498.40 --> 3500.36] Where's the part where God sends this guy -[3500.36 --> 3501.76] to kill his people's enemies? -[3502.76 --> 3505.36] Where's the part where this guy brings the wrath of God -[3505.36 --> 3506.62] to the people I hate? -[3508.00 --> 3509.26] That hurt me. -[3509.72 --> 3511.50] Where's the part where God destroys everything -[3511.50 --> 3513.14] that has made my life hard? -[3514.80 --> 3516.58] No, not yet. -[3517.08 --> 3517.70] Not now. -[3519.44 --> 3522.40] No, this servant of God, this Messiah, -[3522.84 --> 3524.18] the chosen one of God, -[3524.44 --> 3526.90] is meek and humble. -[3527.60 --> 3530.20] He will not shout or cry out or raise his voice. -[3530.20 --> 3533.02] He is the measure of self-control. -[3533.66 --> 3536.44] He is a teacher whose words bring hope. -[3537.26 --> 3538.54] Who when he comes from, -[3538.92 --> 3541.34] when he comes across the broken or the weakened faith, -[3541.42 --> 3543.74] he picks them up and breathes life back -[3543.74 --> 3546.64] into their weak flame and makes them into a fire again. -[3547.60 --> 3549.40] This man is unable to be discouraged, -[3549.64 --> 3551.26] unable to fail in weakness. -[3551.26 --> 3554.56] And in these ways, he will bring justice. -[3555.14 --> 3556.50] And not just to Israel, -[3557.08 --> 3559.38] but to every nation, -[3560.18 --> 3561.96] the whole world even. -[3561.96 --> 3567.24] God goes on to speak about this servant -[3567.24 --> 3568.84] in the second section I mentioned earlier. -[3569.46 --> 3570.78] But first in verse 5, -[3571.02 --> 3573.40] God describes his own character -[3573.40 --> 3575.76] and himself giving a foundation -[3575.76 --> 3576.98] for this servant's mission. -[3577.68 --> 3578.90] And what God will say in this -[3578.90 --> 3581.06] to his servant in verses 6 to 9. -[3581.58 --> 3583.40] God describes himself as the Lord, -[3584.00 --> 3586.24] the covenant name he gives to Moses, -[3586.74 --> 3588.80] the name by which Israel calls to be saved -[3588.80 --> 3592.12] from every calamity and enemy. -[3592.46 --> 3594.98] The name that their salvation is found in, -[3595.06 --> 3596.26] the name that is the foundation -[3596.26 --> 3597.94] of the covenant and the law. -[3598.54 --> 3599.86] This God describes himself -[3599.86 --> 3601.38] as the one who created the heavens -[3601.38 --> 3603.10] and stretches them over the earth -[3603.10 --> 3604.94] and spreads out the earth -[3604.94 --> 3606.60] with everything that springs from it. -[3607.68 --> 3609.14] God is the one who gives breath -[3609.14 --> 3610.58] to every being and life -[3610.58 --> 3612.08] to everything that walks. -[3613.14 --> 3615.46] This description does more than just tell us -[3615.46 --> 3618.12] how cool or awesome God is. -[3618.12 --> 3620.00] This passage is telling us -[3620.00 --> 3622.40] why he is sending this servant -[3622.40 --> 3623.64] to bring justice, -[3624.00 --> 3625.00] not just to Israel, -[3625.20 --> 3626.50] but to all nations. -[3627.18 --> 3628.54] Because as much as Israel -[3628.54 --> 3630.52] would not want to hear it at the time, -[3631.88 --> 3633.90] the Lord, though has chosen Israel, -[3634.20 --> 3636.42] has a plan for the rest as well. -[3637.60 --> 3639.16] God's heart is for his people -[3639.16 --> 3640.66] wherever they are found. -[3641.16 --> 3642.08] He made them all. -[3643.18 --> 3644.46] He gives them all breath -[3644.46 --> 3646.26] and he intends to give them -[3646.26 --> 3648.54] all justice as well. -[3650.24 --> 3651.98] And it is the Lord's servant -[3651.98 --> 3653.36] who will accomplish it. -[3654.36 --> 3656.42] Look back on verses 6 to 9 -[3656.42 --> 3657.16] in your Bibles -[3657.16 --> 3658.44] and look what the Lord says -[3658.44 --> 3659.30] about his servant. -[3659.30 --> 3662.16] The Lord has called him -[3662.16 --> 3662.90] in righteousness. -[3663.30 --> 3664.68] He will take hold of his hand. -[3664.80 --> 3665.64] He will keep him. -[3665.98 --> 3666.98] He will make him a covenant -[3666.98 --> 3667.68] to the people. -[3668.12 --> 3669.14] He will make him a light -[3669.14 --> 3670.00] to the Gentiles. -[3670.08 --> 3671.10] He will open the eyes -[3671.10 --> 3671.80] of the blind. -[3672.18 --> 3673.66] He will free the captives -[3673.66 --> 3674.80] and bring light -[3674.80 --> 3676.26] to those who are in the dark. -[3679.82 --> 3681.58] This is what you can expect. -[3683.42 --> 3684.64] And now we get to read -[3684.64 --> 3686.02] our other passage today. -[3686.02 --> 3688.88] Matthew 12, 15 to 21. -[3689.66 --> 3690.84] So follow along. -[3692.92 --> 3693.88] Aware of this, -[3694.06 --> 3695.82] Jesus withdrew from that place. -[3696.50 --> 3698.06] A large crowd followed him -[3698.06 --> 3699.52] and he healed all who were ill. -[3700.04 --> 3700.88] He warned them -[3700.88 --> 3702.62] not to tell others about him. -[3703.14 --> 3704.12] This was to fulfill -[3704.12 --> 3704.94] what was spoken -[3704.94 --> 3706.54] through the prophet Isaiah. -[3707.26 --> 3708.36] Here is my servant -[3708.36 --> 3709.28] whom I have chosen, -[3709.84 --> 3711.16] the one whom I love, -[3711.84 --> 3713.12] the one in whom I delight. -[3713.40 --> 3714.90] I will put my spirit on him -[3714.90 --> 3715.98] and he will proclaim justice -[3715.98 --> 3716.70] to the nations. -[3717.56 --> 3718.54] He will not quarrel -[3718.54 --> 3719.28] or cry out. -[3719.70 --> 3721.06] No one will hear his voice -[3721.06 --> 3721.68] in the streets. -[3722.38 --> 3724.02] No, a bruised weed, -[3724.22 --> 3725.18] a bruised reed, -[3725.44 --> 3726.18] he will not break. -[3726.46 --> 3727.28] And a smoldering wick, -[3727.74 --> 3728.82] he will not stuff out. -[3729.06 --> 3730.22] Till he has brought justice -[3730.22 --> 3731.12] through to victory. -[3731.50 --> 3732.16] In his name, -[3732.26 --> 3733.42] the nations will put their hope. -[3735.48 --> 3736.58] Matthew quotes -[3736.58 --> 3738.62] the Isaiah passage from today -[3738.62 --> 3739.70] as proof -[3739.70 --> 3741.46] that Jesus is the Messiah. -[3742.34 --> 3743.34] Matthew is writing here -[3743.34 --> 3745.42] that Jesus is the servant -[3745.42 --> 3747.30] spoken of in Isaiah 42. -[3747.94 --> 3748.86] And he's highlighting -[3748.86 --> 3750.68] how when Jesus heals the crowd, -[3751.40 --> 3753.98] he doesn't want them -[3753.98 --> 3754.76] to tell people. -[3756.24 --> 3756.84] Why? -[3758.00 --> 3759.56] Because like the character -[3759.56 --> 3760.98] of the servant described, -[3761.78 --> 3762.42] he's humble. -[3763.20 --> 3764.02] He's meek. -[3764.70 --> 3766.18] He's not looking to gloat -[3766.18 --> 3768.46] or present himself as great. -[3769.20 --> 3770.16] He was quiet, -[3771.04 --> 3771.52] intentional. -[3772.80 --> 3774.08] And in keeping them quiet, -[3774.20 --> 3775.26] Jesus is showing us -[3775.26 --> 3775.94] and them, -[3776.22 --> 3777.38] it's not about the fame -[3777.38 --> 3778.34] or the prestige -[3778.34 --> 3779.72] or about being lauded -[3779.72 --> 3780.62] as some hero. -[3781.28 --> 3782.92] As it says in Philippians 2, -[3783.04 --> 3783.64] 6 to 8, -[3784.34 --> 3786.48] who being in the very nature God, -[3786.66 --> 3788.46] did not consider equality with God -[3788.46 --> 3789.86] something to be used -[3789.86 --> 3791.14] for his own advantage. -[3791.74 --> 3792.08] Rather, -[3792.20 --> 3793.16] he made himself nothing -[3793.16 --> 3794.74] by taking on the very nature -[3794.74 --> 3796.22] of a servant. -[3796.22 --> 3799.36] Being made in human likeness -[3799.36 --> 3800.10] and being found -[3800.10 --> 3801.20] in an appearance as a man, -[3801.66 --> 3802.56] he humbled himself -[3802.56 --> 3804.46] by becoming obedient to death, -[3804.62 --> 3806.08] even death on a cross. -[3807.84 --> 3810.32] Jesus came to be a servant -[3810.32 --> 3812.16] and not just any servant, -[3812.62 --> 3815.18] but the servant of the Lord -[3815.18 --> 3816.26] in Isaiah 42. -[3817.70 --> 3819.44] And when studying for this passage, -[3819.58 --> 3820.10] the realization -[3820.10 --> 3822.24] that just blew me away -[3822.24 --> 3824.50] was that when Jesus was a child -[3824.50 --> 3826.16] and learning from the Torah -[3826.16 --> 3827.08] and the prophets, -[3827.46 --> 3828.14] as it says, -[3828.22 --> 3829.38] he learned and grew in wisdom, -[3830.12 --> 3830.90] that when this, -[3831.12 --> 3832.38] when he read this passage -[3832.38 --> 3832.92] in Isaiah, -[3833.60 --> 3834.96] he knew it was his father -[3834.96 --> 3835.82] speaking to him. -[3839.56 --> 3840.84] So that when he goes -[3840.84 --> 3841.44] to the temple -[3841.44 --> 3842.34] when he's 12 -[3842.34 --> 3843.54] and when his parents -[3843.54 --> 3844.46] are looking for him, -[3844.52 --> 3845.54] he's referring to God -[3845.54 --> 3846.22] as his father. -[3847.00 --> 3847.84] And the fact -[3847.84 --> 3849.20] that it's specifically written -[3849.20 --> 3850.08] as God speaking -[3850.08 --> 3851.12] to his servant -[3851.12 --> 3852.72] just makes that -[3852.72 --> 3853.96] so much more powerful. -[3855.84 --> 3856.72] Jesus knew -[3856.72 --> 3857.50] that this is why -[3857.50 --> 3858.06] he was here, -[3858.30 --> 3859.22] why he was born. -[3860.54 --> 3862.32] But knowing he was God, -[3862.68 --> 3863.14] did not, -[3863.44 --> 3864.52] he did not consider -[3864.52 --> 3865.06] that something -[3865.06 --> 3866.30] to be taken advantage of. -[3866.80 --> 3867.20] Instead, -[3867.36 --> 3869.46] he lived a humble life, -[3870.00 --> 3871.12] just like the servant -[3871.12 --> 3872.10] is described to. -[3875.34 --> 3876.86] And so when Jesus grew up -[3876.86 --> 3877.84] and eventually went -[3877.84 --> 3878.64] to the Jordan River -[3878.64 --> 3879.32] to be baptized, -[3879.32 --> 3881.30] we see again -[3881.30 --> 3883.22] a similar series of events -[3883.22 --> 3885.28] as Saul's rise to king. -[3886.20 --> 3887.06] And we start -[3887.06 --> 3888.14] to see connections -[3888.14 --> 3888.86] between the passage -[3888.86 --> 3890.18] Kevin preached last Sunday -[3890.18 --> 3891.78] in chapter 3 of Matthew. -[3892.82 --> 3894.78] We read in verses 2 to 3, -[3895.32 --> 3895.90] in those days, -[3896.02 --> 3896.96] John the Baptist came -[3896.96 --> 3897.84] preaching in the wilderness -[3897.84 --> 3898.44] of Judea -[3898.44 --> 3898.84] and said, -[3898.98 --> 3899.88] repent for the kingdom -[3899.88 --> 3901.38] of heaven has come near. -[3902.16 --> 3903.56] This is who was spoken of -[3903.56 --> 3904.48] through the prophet Isaiah, -[3904.68 --> 3905.78] a voice of the one -[3905.78 --> 3906.72] calling through the wilderness. -[3907.34 --> 3907.82] Prepare the way -[3907.82 --> 3908.26] for the Lord, -[3908.36 --> 3909.30] make straight paths -[3909.30 --> 3909.72] for him. -[3911.16 --> 3911.92] Matthew quotes -[3911.92 --> 3912.76] from Isaiah 40, -[3912.86 --> 3913.52] the same passage -[3913.52 --> 3915.32] Kevin preached last Sunday -[3915.32 --> 3915.98] about the hope -[3915.98 --> 3916.80] we have in God. -[3917.62 --> 3918.24] John the Baptist -[3918.24 --> 3919.74] then tells the Pharisees -[3919.74 --> 3920.54] and the Sadducees -[3920.54 --> 3921.60] that one is coming -[3921.60 --> 3923.12] who will baptize -[3923.12 --> 3923.86] with the Holy Spirit -[3923.86 --> 3924.32] and fire -[3924.32 --> 3926.04] and who with his winnowing fork -[3926.04 --> 3927.10] will separate the wheat -[3927.10 --> 3927.94] and the chaff. -[3928.56 --> 3929.48] John is telling them -[3929.48 --> 3930.54] that this man -[3930.54 --> 3931.76] will come to judge. -[3933.08 --> 3934.32] Jesus then arrives -[3934.32 --> 3935.00] on the Jordan River -[3935.00 --> 3936.74] and goes to John the Baptist. -[3936.74 --> 3938.24] John the Baptist -[3938.24 --> 3939.62] doesn't want to baptize Jesus -[3939.62 --> 3940.44] because he doesn't see -[3940.44 --> 3941.20] himself as worthy. -[3941.46 --> 3941.78] Instead, -[3942.06 --> 3943.50] Jesus should be baptizing him. -[3945.04 --> 3945.68] Jesus tells him -[3945.68 --> 3946.30] he has to. -[3947.08 --> 3947.52] And when Jesus -[3947.52 --> 3949.88] rises out of the water, -[3950.58 --> 3951.28] the Holy Spirit -[3951.28 --> 3952.56] descends on him -[3952.56 --> 3953.32] as a dove -[3953.32 --> 3954.96] and God says, -[3955.34 --> 3956.46] this is my son -[3956.46 --> 3957.68] in whom I love. -[3958.02 --> 3958.58] With him, -[3958.68 --> 3959.66] I am well pleased. -[3959.66 --> 3959.78] Jesus. -[3961.34 --> 3962.32] This declaration -[3962.32 --> 3963.14] from God -[3963.14 --> 3964.74] is very similar -[3964.74 --> 3965.84] to verses 1 and 2 -[3965.84 --> 3966.86] of Isaiah 42. -[3968.32 --> 3969.18] And so what we see -[3969.18 --> 3970.48] in this series of events -[3970.48 --> 3972.26] in 1 Samuel, -[3972.50 --> 3973.06] in Isaiah, -[3973.22 --> 3974.42] and the Gospel of Matthew, -[3974.74 --> 3976.70] they all share similarities -[3976.70 --> 3978.68] about a chosen one of God -[3978.68 --> 3980.06] either being a king -[3980.06 --> 3980.74] or a servant -[3980.74 --> 3981.58] and in this case, -[3981.76 --> 3982.04] Jesus. -[3983.40 --> 3984.62] The first connection -[3984.62 --> 3986.04] is that in all three stories -[3986.04 --> 3986.90] there is a prophet -[3986.90 --> 3988.30] who receives word -[3988.30 --> 3990.12] that a man God has chosen -[3990.12 --> 3991.28] is going to arrive -[3991.28 --> 3993.02] and that he is going -[3993.02 --> 3994.10] to lead God's people -[3994.10 --> 3995.26] and bring justice -[3995.26 --> 3996.44] or judgment. -[3997.36 --> 3997.84] Second, -[3998.10 --> 3999.22] in all three stories, -[3999.36 --> 4000.72] this man has the Holy Spirit -[4000.72 --> 4001.70] poured out on him -[4001.70 --> 4003.80] as a visible sign -[4003.80 --> 4005.02] that this is God's man -[4005.02 --> 4005.88] and that he's empowered -[4005.88 --> 4006.82] to do the task. -[4007.90 --> 4008.42] And third, -[4008.52 --> 4009.42] in all stories, -[4009.52 --> 4010.26] there is a declaration -[4010.26 --> 4011.00] from God -[4011.00 --> 4012.68] that this man, -[4013.28 --> 4015.02] that this man was sent. -[4015.54 --> 4016.30] This is the one -[4016.30 --> 4017.20] who I promised. -[4017.20 --> 4019.66] And the last point -[4019.66 --> 4020.10] of connection -[4020.10 --> 4022.02] of which I find -[4022.02 --> 4023.02] utterly surprising -[4023.02 --> 4024.36] is that Jesus, -[4024.82 --> 4025.56] is what Jesus does -[4025.56 --> 4027.44] after this public declaration, -[4027.66 --> 4029.16] after he's baptized, -[4030.16 --> 4032.30] is he goes into the wilderness -[4032.30 --> 4034.02] and he fights a snake. -[4035.72 --> 4037.08] Led by the Holy Spirit, -[4037.18 --> 4037.76] like Saul, -[4037.86 --> 4038.46] who was empowered -[4038.46 --> 4039.14] by the Spirit, -[4039.82 --> 4040.86] he goes and faces -[4040.86 --> 4041.76] the temptations -[4041.76 --> 4042.46] of the devil. -[4043.34 --> 4044.16] And like Saul, -[4044.28 --> 4044.94] who attacked -[4044.94 --> 4046.24] with three divisions -[4046.24 --> 4046.82] of his army, -[4047.10 --> 4048.22] Jesus defends himself -[4048.22 --> 4049.50] with the word -[4049.50 --> 4050.60] three times -[4050.60 --> 4051.30] from attacks -[4051.30 --> 4052.16] from the snake -[4052.16 --> 4053.38] who was the one -[4053.38 --> 4054.06] in the garden -[4054.06 --> 4056.10] who deceived Adam and Eve -[4056.10 --> 4057.58] who started this whole mess. -[4059.46 --> 4060.44] Just like Saul, -[4060.54 --> 4061.42] after being declared -[4061.42 --> 4062.58] by God -[4062.58 --> 4063.96] to be his chosen one, -[4064.14 --> 4065.54] he goes and fights -[4065.54 --> 4066.50] God's enemy -[4066.50 --> 4068.74] and the enemy -[4068.74 --> 4069.70] of God's people -[4069.70 --> 4071.22] and is victorious, -[4072.18 --> 4073.04] proving himself -[4073.04 --> 4074.00] to be the king -[4074.00 --> 4074.48] of Israel. -[4077.36 --> 4078.38] But let us go back -[4078.38 --> 4078.92] to how God -[4078.92 --> 4080.66] introduces his servant, -[4081.02 --> 4081.22] Jesus, -[4081.50 --> 4082.32] in Matthew 3. -[4083.54 --> 4084.80] God has declared -[4084.80 --> 4085.30] that Jesus -[4085.30 --> 4086.38] is his servant, -[4086.86 --> 4087.46] this man -[4087.46 --> 4088.50] in whom he loves. -[4088.98 --> 4089.58] But we get -[4089.58 --> 4090.78] one more piece -[4090.78 --> 4091.40] of information. -[4092.54 --> 4093.26] God's servant -[4093.26 --> 4094.74] is his son. -[4095.66 --> 4097.00] The son of God -[4097.00 --> 4098.30] is the servant -[4098.30 --> 4099.14] who will bring justice -[4099.14 --> 4099.82] to the nations. -[4099.82 --> 4101.42] The son of God -[4101.42 --> 4102.20] is the servant -[4102.20 --> 4103.44] who will be the light -[4103.44 --> 4104.22] to the world. -[4104.80 --> 4105.64] The son of God -[4105.64 --> 4106.14] is the one -[4106.14 --> 4106.76] who gives sight -[4106.76 --> 4107.30] to the blind -[4107.30 --> 4108.64] and frees the captives. -[4109.28 --> 4111.22] The servant of God -[4111.22 --> 4113.06] is God. -[4114.34 --> 4115.54] The same God -[4115.54 --> 4116.52] who in verse 5 -[4116.52 --> 4117.48] of Isaiah 42 -[4117.48 --> 4118.60] is the one -[4118.60 --> 4119.58] who made the heavens -[4119.58 --> 4120.48] and stretched them -[4120.48 --> 4121.10] over the earth. -[4121.46 --> 4122.48] The one who gives life -[4122.48 --> 4123.32] to every man -[4123.32 --> 4124.00] and breath -[4124.00 --> 4125.52] to everything that walks. -[4125.94 --> 4127.38] The Lord God -[4127.38 --> 4128.98] of all the earth -[4128.98 --> 4131.60] is the very same -[4131.60 --> 4132.64] humble, -[4133.10 --> 4133.42] meek, -[4133.94 --> 4134.46] quiet, -[4135.12 --> 4135.94] self-controlled, -[4136.74 --> 4138.12] not crying out, -[4138.56 --> 4140.14] careful for the bruised reed -[4140.14 --> 4141.22] and smoldering wick. -[4141.78 --> 4142.44] That God -[4142.44 --> 4143.62] is a servant -[4143.62 --> 4144.24] at heart. -[4145.34 --> 4146.34] Jesus himself -[4146.34 --> 4146.84] declares -[4146.84 --> 4147.78] in Matthew 11 -[4147.78 --> 4150.04] that he is meek -[4150.04 --> 4150.92] and lowly -[4150.92 --> 4151.58] at heart. -[4153.20 --> 4154.10] A servant -[4154.10 --> 4155.22] who did not consider -[4155.22 --> 4156.48] equality with God -[4156.48 --> 4157.34] worth advantage, -[4157.34 --> 4159.96] but rather humbled himself -[4159.96 --> 4160.80] to be obedient -[4160.80 --> 4161.66] to death, -[4161.78 --> 4162.86] even death on a cross. -[4163.32 --> 4164.56] Who lived the life -[4164.56 --> 4165.38] we should have lived, -[4165.46 --> 4166.46] who died the death -[4166.46 --> 4167.76] we should have died. -[4168.00 --> 4169.16] The phrase we have said -[4169.16 --> 4170.30] for every sermon -[4170.30 --> 4171.38] for years -[4171.38 --> 4172.80] is the justice -[4172.80 --> 4173.84] and judgment -[4173.84 --> 4174.84] of God -[4174.84 --> 4176.24] given to all nations -[4176.24 --> 4176.94] brought there -[4176.94 --> 4178.84] by God's servant. -[4178.84 --> 4178.96] judgment. -[4181.46 --> 4182.58] But there's more. -[4183.14 --> 4184.34] We still have to get -[4184.34 --> 4185.86] to the big idea. -[4186.84 --> 4187.76] The love God has -[4187.76 --> 4188.54] for his son -[4188.54 --> 4189.66] is the love God -[4189.66 --> 4190.76] has for you. -[4191.62 --> 4192.20] Romans 8, -[4192.38 --> 4193.46] 14 to 17 -[4193.46 --> 4194.12] gives us -[4194.12 --> 4195.24] that final piece -[4195.24 --> 4195.70] of the puzzle -[4195.70 --> 4196.66] that locks all this -[4196.66 --> 4197.16] in place -[4197.16 --> 4198.20] and helps us -[4198.20 --> 4199.42] understand Isaiah 42. -[4200.46 --> 4201.70] For those who are led -[4201.70 --> 4202.64] by the spirit of God -[4202.64 --> 4204.64] are children of God. -[4204.84 --> 4206.46] The spirit you received -[4206.46 --> 4208.06] does not make you slaves, -[4208.06 --> 4209.28] so that you live -[4209.28 --> 4209.98] in fear again. -[4210.18 --> 4210.48] Rather, -[4210.98 --> 4212.28] the spirit you received -[4212.28 --> 4213.84] brought about your adoption -[4213.84 --> 4214.84] to sonship -[4214.84 --> 4216.72] and by him we cry -[4216.72 --> 4217.40] Abba Father. -[4217.98 --> 4219.04] The spirit himself -[4219.04 --> 4220.32] testifies with our spirit -[4220.32 --> 4221.62] that we are God's children. -[4222.32 --> 4223.28] Now if we are children -[4223.28 --> 4224.18] then we are heirs, -[4224.34 --> 4225.02] heirs of God -[4225.02 --> 4226.30] and co-heirs with Christ. -[4226.76 --> 4227.90] If indeed we share -[4227.90 --> 4228.82] in his sufferings -[4228.82 --> 4229.90] in order that we may -[4229.90 --> 4231.24] also share in his glory. -[4232.20 --> 4233.44] Paul in Romans 8 -[4233.44 --> 4234.74] is telling us -[4234.74 --> 4235.86] that those with the spirit -[4235.86 --> 4237.60] are adopted into sonship. -[4238.06 --> 4239.12] under the father -[4239.12 --> 4240.14] and that we become -[4240.14 --> 4241.34] more like Christ. -[4241.72 --> 4242.28] Meaning, -[4242.54 --> 4243.48] that since the servant -[4243.48 --> 4244.20] is Christ -[4244.20 --> 4244.84] and the character -[4244.84 --> 4245.34] of the servant -[4245.34 --> 4246.70] is listed in Isaiah -[4246.70 --> 4247.92] is the character -[4247.92 --> 4248.72] of Christ -[4248.72 --> 4250.24] that we will become -[4250.24 --> 4251.14] more like that. -[4253.00 --> 4254.36] We will put aside -[4254.36 --> 4255.40] our evil ways -[4255.40 --> 4256.66] and become meek -[4256.66 --> 4257.50] and lowly -[4257.50 --> 4258.82] and desire to bring -[4258.82 --> 4260.18] justice to all nations. -[4261.02 --> 4262.30] And not only that, -[4262.88 --> 4264.30] what Romans is telling us -[4264.30 --> 4265.76] is that we as Christians -[4265.76 --> 4267.16] who have been baptized, -[4267.82 --> 4269.06] have been given the spirit, -[4269.36 --> 4271.34] gain the same relationship -[4271.34 --> 4272.74] with the father -[4272.74 --> 4273.74] as Jesus has. -[4274.52 --> 4275.86] We become co-heirs -[4275.86 --> 4276.38] with Christ -[4276.38 --> 4276.98] to the father. -[4277.46 --> 4278.26] That means that -[4278.26 --> 4279.22] in Isaiah 42 -[4279.22 --> 4280.72] when God is speaking -[4280.72 --> 4281.62] to his servant -[4281.62 --> 4282.42] directly, -[4282.98 --> 4284.34] he's speaking to you -[4284.34 --> 4288.28] and me -[4288.28 --> 4289.76] through Christ. -[4289.76 --> 4291.52] we as sons of God -[4291.52 --> 4292.50] are not the same -[4292.50 --> 4294.10] as the one true -[4294.10 --> 4294.88] son of God, -[4295.42 --> 4296.60] but through unity -[4296.60 --> 4297.36] with Christ, -[4298.24 --> 4299.60] with the Holy Spirit, -[4300.98 --> 4305.56] we have the same love -[4305.56 --> 4306.54] that the father -[4306.54 --> 4307.48] has for the son -[4307.48 --> 4309.90] the father has for us. -[4309.90 --> 4314.16] all those promises -[4314.16 --> 4317.40] given from the father -[4317.40 --> 4318.44] to his son, -[4318.52 --> 4319.14] that servant, -[4319.46 --> 4320.48] are given to you, -[4321.04 --> 4322.84] which also means -[4322.84 --> 4324.00] he has sent you -[4324.00 --> 4326.06] on the same mission -[4326.06 --> 4327.88] that God has called you -[4327.88 --> 4328.66] out of righteousness -[4328.66 --> 4329.68] to bring justice -[4329.68 --> 4330.68] to all nations, -[4331.52 --> 4333.50] to live as Christ did -[4333.50 --> 4335.30] and to die if necessary. -[4336.18 --> 4337.56] And not that your death -[4337.56 --> 4338.84] will be a death like his, -[4338.84 --> 4340.10] but that your death -[4340.10 --> 4340.86] is your sharing -[4340.86 --> 4342.00] in his suffering -[4342.00 --> 4343.34] and that you may also -[4343.34 --> 4344.46] share in his glory. -[4345.28 --> 4346.80] That same love -[4346.80 --> 4347.66] that the father -[4347.66 --> 4348.48] has for the son, -[4348.84 --> 4350.44] he has for you. -[4350.86 --> 4351.86] And the same love -[4351.86 --> 4352.86] that God has for you, -[4353.02 --> 4354.38] he also has for everyone -[4354.38 --> 4355.32] in this church. -[4356.78 --> 4357.60] And because the church -[4357.60 --> 4358.64] is the body of Christ, -[4358.94 --> 4360.00] you get to have -[4360.00 --> 4362.22] what every other person -[4362.22 --> 4363.10] in this church has -[4363.10 --> 4364.44] and everyone in this church -[4364.44 --> 4365.04] loves you -[4365.04 --> 4366.28] the way you love them. -[4367.30 --> 4368.72] It's the same love -[4368.72 --> 4370.04] the same love -[4370.04 --> 4370.54] that the Trinity -[4370.54 --> 4371.58] has had for eternity -[4371.58 --> 4373.92] and will have for eternity. -[4374.16 --> 4375.44] That same perfect, -[4375.80 --> 4376.82] self-sacrificing, -[4377.02 --> 4377.72] ever-giving, -[4378.08 --> 4379.14] never-ending love -[4379.14 --> 4380.68] is the very same love -[4380.68 --> 4381.80] that courses through -[4381.80 --> 4382.52] this church. -[4384.28 --> 4385.72] That same love -[4385.72 --> 4387.54] in all those verses -[4387.54 --> 4388.30] that we opened up -[4388.30 --> 4389.10] this sermon with -[4389.10 --> 4390.74] is the very same love -[4390.74 --> 4391.30] that the father -[4391.30 --> 4392.16] has for the son -[4392.16 --> 4394.02] and the father -[4394.02 --> 4395.28] has for you. -[4395.28 --> 4398.00] So when we as the church, -[4398.32 --> 4399.64] as co-heirs of Christ, -[4400.40 --> 4402.36] sons of the Lord God, -[4403.16 --> 4404.78] go out into the world, -[4405.62 --> 4406.50] let us not go out -[4406.50 --> 4407.56] holding on to being -[4407.56 --> 4408.32] sons of God -[4408.32 --> 4408.72] as something -[4408.72 --> 4409.80] to take advantage of, -[4410.22 --> 4411.08] but rather live -[4411.08 --> 4411.60] as servants -[4411.60 --> 4412.78] of the Lord God, -[4413.32 --> 4414.36] bringing justice -[4414.36 --> 4415.54] to the whole world -[4415.54 --> 4417.18] like Christ. -[4417.84 --> 4418.74] And like Christ, -[4418.94 --> 4420.14] who was humbly willing -[4420.14 --> 4420.60] to die -[4420.60 --> 4421.32] because of the love -[4421.32 --> 4421.96] of his father -[4421.96 --> 4422.86] and the love -[4422.86 --> 4423.52] for his people, -[4423.90 --> 4424.68] let us go out -[4424.68 --> 4426.40] and love as he loves. -[4427.92 --> 4428.32] Amen. -[4429.76 --> 4430.46] Let us pray. -[4434.90 --> 4435.30] Father, -[4436.02 --> 4437.64] thank you for this day. -[4437.90 --> 4439.02] Thank you for this church. -[4439.74 --> 4440.66] Thank you, Lord, -[4440.74 --> 4441.86] for the same love -[4441.86 --> 4443.92] that you have loved us with, -[4443.96 --> 4445.44] that you loved your son with. -[4446.42 --> 4447.14] I pray, Lord, -[4447.22 --> 4447.98] that as we go out -[4447.98 --> 4448.62] from this place, -[4448.72 --> 4449.64] that we as your church, -[4449.68 --> 4450.32] as your body, -[4450.80 --> 4451.94] can love as Christ did. -[4452.52 --> 4453.38] And that your spirit -[4453.38 --> 4454.74] will pour on us -[4454.74 --> 4456.74] and empower us to do so. -[4457.94 --> 4459.14] The spirit came upon us -[4459.14 --> 4460.06] at our baptisms, Lord, -[4460.16 --> 4461.64] and just like Christ, -[4461.80 --> 4462.86] we get to go out -[4462.86 --> 4463.72] and do your work -[4463.72 --> 4464.70] and serve you. -[4465.24 --> 4465.86] And I pray, Lord, -[4465.90 --> 4466.78] that we would do so -[4466.78 --> 4468.80] with joy and humility -[4468.80 --> 4470.24] and meekness. -[4471.08 --> 4471.32] Amen. -[4471.32 --> 4471.42] Amen. -[4478.02 --> 4479.28] I invite you to rise -[4479.28 --> 4479.92] as we sing. -[4481.96 --> 4485.90] You may try to quote you -[4485.90 --> 4503.50] Over the skies of Bethlehem were cleared as dark -[4503.50 --> 4509.90] While angels sang to lowly shepherds -[4509.90 --> 4517.90] Three wise men seeking truth traveled from afar -[4517.90 --> 4523.90] Hoping to find the child of heaven -[4523.90 --> 4527.90] Falling on at ease -[4527.90 --> 4535.90] They bowed before the humble Prince of Peace -[4535.90 --> 4542.90] Might bring an offering of worship to our King -[4542.90 --> 4549.90] No one on earth deserves the praises that we sing -[4549.90 --> 4557.90] Jesus, do you receive the honor that you're due -[4557.90 --> 4564.90] Call the Lord, I bring an offering to you -[4564.90 --> 4575.90] The sun cannot compare to the glory of your love -[4575.90 --> 4582.90] There is no shadow in your presence -[4582.90 --> 4590.90] No mortal man can dare to stand before your throne -[4590.90 --> 4596.90] Before the Holy One of Heaven -[4596.90 --> 4599.90] And it's only by your blood -[4599.90 --> 4603.90] And it's only through your mercy -[4603.90 --> 4607.90] Lord, I come -[4607.90 --> 4613.90] I bring an offering of worship to my King -[4613.90 --> 4620.90] No one on earth deserves the praises that we sing -[4620.90 --> 4628.90] Jesus, do you receive the honor that you're due -[4628.90 --> 4629.90] Oh, Lord, I bring an offering to you -[4629.90 --> 4635.90] Oh, Lord, I bring an offering to you -[4635.90 --> 4639.90] I bring an offering of worship to my King -[4639.90 --> 4645.90] No one on earth deserves the praises that we sing -[4645.90 --> 4649.90] Jesus, may you receive the honor that you're due -[4649.90 --> 4656.90] Jesus, may you receive the honor that you're due -[4656.90 --> 4663.90] Oh, Lord, I bring an offering to you -[4663.90 --> 4670.90] Oh, Lord, I bring an offering to you -[4670.90 --> 4682.90] The Lord's blessing -[4682.90 --> 4684.90] The Lord bless you and keep you -[4684.90 --> 4687.90] The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you -[4687.90 --> 4691.90] The Lord turn his face towards you and give you peace -[4691.90 --> 4693.90] Amen -[4700.90 --> 4724.90] Angels we have heard on high -[4724.90 --> 4728.90] Sweetly singing o'er the plains -[4728.90 --> 4732.90] And the mountains in reply -[4732.90 --> 4736.90] Echoing their joyous dreams -[4736.90 --> 4740.90] Gloria -[4740.90 --> 4744.90] In excelsis Deo -[4744.90 --> 4746.90] Gloria -[4746.90 --> 4748.90] In excelsis Deo -[4748.90 --> 4750.90] Gloria -[4750.90 --> 4752.90] In excelsis Deo -[4752.90 --> 4754.90] Gloria -[4754.90 --> 4756.90] Gloria -[4756.90 --> 4758.90] In excelsis Deo -[4758.90 --> 4760.90] Shepherds, why this jubilee -[4760.90 --> 4764.90] Why your joyous strains prolong -[4764.90 --> 4766.90] What glad gladsome tidings be -[4766.90 --> 4768.90] Which inspire your heavenly song -[4768.90 --> 4769.90] Gloria -[4769.90 --> 4770.90] In excelsis Deo -[4770.90 --> 4771.90] Gloria -[4771.90 --> 4772.90] In excelsis Deo -[4772.90 --> 4773.90] Gloria -[4773.90 --> 4774.90] In excelsis Deo -[4774.90 --> 4775.90] Shepherds, why this jubilee -[4775.90 --> 4776.90] Why your joyous strains prolong -[4776.90 --> 4778.90] To the psalmist, why this jubilee -[4778.90 --> 4780.90] Why your joyous winds come along -[4780.90 --> 4782.90] Gloria -[4782.90 --> 4784.90] In excelsis Deo -[4784.90 --> 4786.90] Gloria -[4786.90 --> 4788.90] In excelsis Deo -[4788.90 --> 4790.90] Gloria -[4790.90 --> 4792.90] In excelsis Deo -[4792.90 --> 4794.90] Gloria -[4794.90 --> 4796.90] In excelsis Deo -[4796.90 --> 4798.90] Gloria -[4798.90 --> 4805.90] Gloria in excelsis Aeo. -[4808.12 --> 4812.66] Come to Bethlehem and sing. -[4813.10 --> 4816.50] Let whose birth the angels sing. -[4816.50 --> 4820.40] Come adore on plent of thee. -[4820.56 --> 4824.26] Christ the Lord, the newborn King. -[4824.26 --> 4835.90] Gloria in excelsis Aeo. -[4835.90 --> 4851.02] Gloria in excelsis Aeo. -[4851.02 --> 4853.94] Have a blessed week. -[4853.94 --> 4856.90] Honorable Board members. -[4856.90 --> 4860.86] Senhoreswagens are a pure나들이 around ochreade. -[4860.86 --> 4879.54] заг WWW. -[4879.54 --> 4909.52] Thank you. -[4909.54 --> 4939.52] Thank you. -[4939.54 --> 4969.52] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 24, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 24, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3ebcfc399a0174a6844c37cb42f588772369b605..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 24, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3 +0,0 @@ -• Collaborative project on Spark Spectrum -• Multiple actions to consider -• Four distinct options available \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 24, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 24, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ff7d6adbcbf460e6077105de19c36ff975373dc7..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 24, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,4 +0,0 @@ -[0.24 --> 4.92] I hear you co-working on a spark spectrum here. -[9.66 --> 10.98] He does look at this. -[14.94 --> 18.12] And I do see that a lot of different actions do you want. -[20.12 --> 23.00] Four different options. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 25, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 25, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f0a6d12066233efec1b8ac9b9faf87bea22c55c1..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 25, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,76 +0,0 @@ -• Worship service is underway -• Season of Christmas and Advent has been examining words of waiting: peace, hope, joy, and love -• Children from Children's Worship Time program have answered questions about these words -• Questions include: what does peace mean to you?, where do you find joy? -• Adults are encouraged to listen carefully to the children's responses -• Examples of joy and love given by a child -• Invitation to worship on Christmas morning -• Reading of scripture from Luke 1-2 (Christmas story) -• Reflection on the meaning of Christmas and Christ's birth -• Discussion of a Belimi award as humorous -• Recitation of "Gloria" with various repetitions and musical accompaniment -• Invitation for children to come up and ring bells during the song "Joy to the World" -• Additional discussion on participation in music and applause -• Performance and singing of traditional Christmas carols, including "O Come, All Ye Faithful" -• Reflection on the meaning and significance of Christmas for some people -• The concept of Christmas and the birth of Jesus Christ -• Frustration and disconnection from the significance of Christmas amidst personal troubles -• Reflection on the significance of Jesus Christ as the Savior and King -• Praise and adoration for Jesus Christ, emphasizing his role in salvation and redemption -• Emphasis on the importance of faith and trust in Jesus Christ -• Hymn to God -• Benevolence Fund and helping those in need -• Grief and loss, remembering families who have lost loved ones -• Praying for encouragement, connectedness, and community for those grieving -• Recognizing underemployed or unemployed people and inflation struggles -• Prayer for peace in the world and leaders to acknowledge God's authority -• Discussion of finding peace, hope, joy, and love through God's Word -• Comparison of worldly offerings with God's promises -• Reading from Luke 1:30-33, highlighting Jesus as the source of peace, hope, joy, and love -• Explaining that Jesus' kingdom will never end and he will reign forever -• Addressing common objections to Jesus being a source of peace, hope, and love -• Emphasizing that Jesus is not just an example, but "being itself" -• Jesus as hope and joy -• Angels proclaiming the birth of Jesus -• Shepherds receiving news of Jesus' birth from angels -• Contrast between Christian idea of God and other ancient religions -• Transcendence of God in Christianity -• Incarnation of God through Jesus Christ -• Nicene Creed and its statement on Jesus' nature -• Critique of reducing Jesus to a mere source of peace, hope, or joy -• Comparison with Yuri Gagarin's comment on not finding God in space -• Relationship with God compared to people in a building and their relation to others -• Hamlet's inability to know Shakespeare unless Shakespeare reveals himself -• Dorothy Sayers writing herself into her own story as Lord Peter Whimsey's love interest, Harriet Vane -• Incarnation of God coming down to earth to be known -• Jesus as the image of invisible God and how we see God through him -• The true and better source of peace, hope, joy, and love is found in Jesus -• Christ reconciles all things to God through his blood shed on the cross -• Don't settle for substitutes or fleeting things, but accept Jesus as your true source of life -• In Christ, you have been brought to fullness and have abundant and eternal life -• Jesus is head over every power and authority, and he brings wholeness and full humanity -• Jesus' peace surpasses all understanding and brings glory to God -• The importance of having a hope that is fixed and certain, based on the promises of God -• Jesus Christ as our hope, as stated in 1 Timothy 1 -• Not settling for limited or inadequate things, but receiving the fullness of who Jesus is -• Joy as a reasonable response to the victory of God over death -• Christians having an inexpressible and glorious joy that comes from believing in Jesus, even when they don't see him now -• Jesus as our joy and love -• The importance of not settling for inadequate things, but receiving Jesus for who he truly is -• The Bible instructs us to follow God's example of love, as demonstrated by Christ's sacrifice -• Jesus' love is unique and unmatched in all creation, making him the uncreated Son of God who took on flesh -• Christians did not "steal" their faith from pagans; rather, nothing like Christianity has ever happened before -• Jesus is our peace, hope, joy, and love, and we pray to see Him clearly today -• A prayer is offered, asking God to meet with those present and reveal Himself -• The choir sings about Jesus, His birth, and His sacrifice -• The shame of scandal came when the Savior was born as a human being -• Jesus' life, death, and resurrection are highlighted, including His sufferings for humanity's sins -• The choir continues singing about Jesus' victory over sin and death, and His glory in heaven -• An elder mentions plans to serve coffee after church and invites everyone to stay for fellowship -• A prayer is offered, thanking God for coming down to lead, protect, support, and befriend those present. -• Expressions of worship and praise, including hymns about Emmanuel -• Invocations to lift voices in celebration and proclamation of God's presence -• Reflections on the humility and majesty of Jesus' birth -• Encouragement to spread the news of Emmanuel -• Singing traditional Dutch-English hymn, with lyrics displayed on screen -• Repetitive expression of gratitude \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 25, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 25, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index e882c55bda5a4c0920443d04a56d07163caee472..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 25, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1265 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.00] Oh -[30.00 --> 32.00] Oh -[60.00 --> 62.00] Oh -[90.00 --> 92.00] Oh -[120.00 --> 122.00] Oh -[150.00 --> 152.00] Oh -[152.00 --> 154.00] Oh -[154.00 --> 156.00] Oh -[156.00 --> 158.00] Oh -[158.00 --> 160.00] Oh -[160.00 --> 162.00] Oh -[162.00 --> 164.00] Oh -[166.00 --> 168.00] A -[168.00 --> 170.00] A -[170.00 --> 172.00] B -[172.00 --> 177.70] Oh, shepherds in fields, girls, they know -[177.70 --> 185.42] These fields, well, they, they keep in their sleep -[185.42 --> 193.46] On a cold winter's home, that was so deep -[193.46 --> 203.46] Oh, shepherds in fields, well, oh, well, oh, well -[203.46 --> 219.46] Oh, shepherds in fields, well, oh, well, oh, well, oh, well -[219.46 --> 226.96] Born is the king of Israel -[226.96 --> 234.46] Born is the king of Israel -[249.46 --> 252.46] During a often Hall I come alive -[253.46 --> 256.46] It war a day -[256.96 --> 259.46] Where the santos in fields -[259.46 --> 260.96] Was the �rum -[260.96 --> 262.46] Was the було of heat -[262.46 --> 264.96] Cause the light of stone -[264.96 --> 267.26] Yeah, shepherds in fields -[267.26 --> 271.46] And you're staying before our clothes -[271.46 --> 276.46] Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful -[276.46 --> 282.94] I would travel far in the world of shakir. -[282.94 --> 288.28] I would do my work more as I move. -[289.40 --> 292.94] I would give to him my heart. -[293.50 --> 299.14] Nahi, chari, forevermore, forevermore. -[299.98 --> 305.82] Nahi, chari, forevermore, forevermore. -[305.82 --> 307.82] Nahi, chari, forevermore. -[307.82 --> 310.82] Nahi, chari, forevermore, forevermore. -[310.82 --> 315.82] Nahi, chari, forevermore, forevermore. -[315.82 --> 319.82] Nahi, chari, forevermore, forevermore. -[319.82 --> 325.82] If in the night you are, I want to build a starry sky. -[325.82 --> 332.82] This baby born for sacrifice, Christ the Messiah. -[332.82 --> 339.82] To our hopes and to our fears, the Savior of the world appears. -[339.82 --> 346.82] The promise of eternity, the promise of a son of a son. -[346.82 --> 352.82] Ahi, chari, forevermore, forevermore. -[352.82 --> 358.82] And whatOUGH you like, capstone. -[358.82 --> 363.98] Take a look. -[364.82 --> 366.82] Get ready. -[366.82 --> 372.94] And he shall reign forevermore, forevermore -[372.94 --> 376.82] Our child is born to us, child is born -[376.82 --> 380.66] The king of kings and the lord of Aaliyah -[380.66 --> 385.82] And he shall reign forevermore, forevermore -[385.82 --> 387.82] Aaliyah -[387.82 --> 393.82] Aaliyah -[393.82 --> 400.86] Good morning! -[402.38 --> 405.80] Merry Christmas to all of you! -[405.92 --> 415.32] It is so good to be here to worship our God, to welcome Jesus into the world and to sing his praises together. -[415.54 --> 419.42] If you are a guest with us this morning, a special welcome to you. -[419.58 --> 421.88] My name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors here. -[421.88 --> 428.42] And it's my privilege, along with a few others, to lead in our worship of Jesus this morning. -[429.26 --> 441.16] Throughout the season of Christmas and Advent, we have been looking at the words of waiting, or the words of Advent, in peace, hope, joy, and love. -[441.16 --> 452.58] As we have done that at the beginning of our worship services, there's been a short video explaining the words of the Bible and how they're used and where they come from, -[453.28 --> 456.90] and helping us enter into that reflection together. -[456.90 --> 467.56] To begin our worship today, we have asked the children from Children's Worship Time to answer the questions, -[468.22 --> 470.26] what does peace mean to you? -[470.78 --> 473.40] Or what does hope mean to you? -[473.50 --> 475.28] Where do you find joy? -[475.72 --> 476.94] And how do you see love? -[476.94 --> 484.40] And so we've got a short video where the kids from our Children's Worship Time program have answered those questions, -[484.40 --> 489.34] and we wanted to set that up for you and encourage you to listen well, -[489.34 --> 497.48] because some of them don't speak as loudly and as projecting as you might otherwise hear from someone on stage. -[497.56 --> 501.28] So listen with your listening ears and listen well. -[501.52 --> 502.92] Let's start with that. -[502.92 --> 506.92] Let's start with that. -[506.94 --> 536.92] Let's start with that. -[536.94 --> 538.96] When you have a peaceful boat ride. -[539.30 --> 540.98] Can you give me an example of peace? -[541.22 --> 541.52] Nope. -[541.96 --> 542.84] For yours? -[544.72 --> 545.54] It's on this time. -[550.14 --> 551.02] One video. -[555.82 --> 557.72] Can you tell me something about hope? -[559.72 --> 561.02] About other people. -[561.02 --> 561.52] Hope. -[561.52 --> 565.10] Hoping to get something. -[565.10 --> 572.62] Like for Christmas, you would like hope to get like a like remote control. -[572.62 --> 575.98] I just got my whole family. -[575.98 --> 579.80] I hope my birthday comes in. -[579.80 --> 584.08] Can you give me an example of hope? -[584.08 --> 585.12] Tell the truth. -[585.12 --> 588.32] I hope Easter cake has it. -[588.32 --> 595.60] What is an example of joy? -[595.60 --> 595.64] What is an example of joy? -[595.64 --> 596.64] Joyful. -[596.64 --> 599.94] When you're happy for something. -[599.94 --> 599.96] When you're happy for something. -[599.96 --> 604.40] When I'm at the playground. -[604.40 --> 605.68] Reading a book. -[605.68 --> 609.70] Can you give me an example of joy? -[609.70 --> 611.90] When you score a goal in soccer. -[611.90 --> 615.22] Like a great present. -[615.22 --> 621.28] Like being happy after somebody does something with you. -[621.28 --> 624.28] Can you give me an example of love? -[627.74 --> 629.86] By helping someone with math? -[637.24 --> 638.18] Do you want to say it again? -[638.18 --> 638.70] Nice and loud? -[638.70 --> 639.70] Like dinosaurs. -[640.80 --> 641.04] Yeah. -[642.18 --> 643.26] Don't miss them. -[647.08 --> 649.08] Be nice to everybody. -[649.08 --> 656.18] While you're lookingylan is happy. -[664.30 --> 666.32] And how we like mornings for poder. -[670.32 --> 672.50] Giving someone something? -[677.74 --> 678.52] Um. -[678.52 --> 684.22] we'll come back to those in just a moment. But if anyone needs help with math, Emmett is here for -[684.22 --> 691.08] you. We are here to gather and worship our God. And so I'm going to invite you to stand. -[691.82 --> 697.88] God will welcome us into his presence with his greeting. And then following God's greeting, -[698.20 --> 703.56] invite you to turn to those around you in worship and offer them a Merry Christmas if you haven't -[703.56 --> 710.04] and pass the peace of Christ, share God's greeting together. Receive the greeting of our God on this -[710.04 --> 718.36] Christmas morning. Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, -[718.48 --> 726.02] Son, and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Let's welcome each other to worship. -[733.56 --> 735.58] Amen. -[735.58 --> 765.56] Thank you. -[765.58 --> 776.76] As we light the Christ candle today, we are reminded of the true meaning of Christmas and of who Christ is. The hope, peace, joy, and love everlasting. -[795.58 --> 796.58] Amen. -[796.58 --> 797.58] Amen. -[797.58 --> 798.58] Amen. -[826.58 --> 827.58] -[856.58 --> 857.58] Amen. -[857.58 --> 859.70] and his kingdom shall never end. -[862.90 --> 867.44] How will this be, Mary asked the angel, since I am a virgin? -[868.20 --> 871.24] The angel answered, The Holy Spirit will come on you, -[871.50 --> 874.46] and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. -[874.98 --> 878.24] So the Holy One to be born will be called the Son of David. -[878.94 --> 883.06] Even Elizabeth, your relative, is going to have a child in her old age, -[883.06 --> 887.84] and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her six months, -[888.36 --> 890.64] for no word from God will ever fail. -[891.56 --> 893.72] I am the Lord's servant, Mary answered. -[894.00 --> 896.04] May your word to me be fulfilled. -[896.38 --> 897.50] Then the angel left her. -[906.94 --> 909.78] In those days, Caesar Augustus issued a decree -[909.78 --> 912.66] that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. -[913.06 --> 915.28] This was the first census that took place -[915.28 --> 918.28] while Corneus was governor over Sirius, -[918.42 --> 921.46] and everyone went to their own town to register. -[921.86 --> 925.62] So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee -[925.62 --> 928.32] to Judea, to Bethlehem, the town of David, -[929.26 --> 932.22] because he belonged to the house and the line of David. -[932.68 --> 934.22] He went there to register with Mary, -[934.68 --> 937.82] who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. -[937.82 --> 943.66] While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, -[944.10 --> 946.46] and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. -[947.28 --> 950.04] She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger -[950.04 --> 952.62] because there was no guest room available for them. -[953.74 --> 956.08] And there were shepherds living out in the fiers nearby, -[956.62 --> 958.36] keeping watch over their flocks at night. -[959.10 --> 960.84] An angel of the Lord appeared to them, -[961.04 --> 963.24] and the glory of the Lord shone around them, -[963.24 --> 964.36] and they were terrified. -[965.92 --> 967.54] But the angel said to them, -[967.68 --> 968.62] Do not be afraid. -[968.72 --> 971.94] I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. -[972.38 --> 975.46] Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you. -[975.76 --> 977.40] He is the Messiah, the Lord. -[978.00 --> 979.48] This will be a sign to you. -[979.58 --> 981.48] You will find a baby wrapped in clothes, -[981.56 --> 982.28] lying in a manger. -[982.98 --> 985.84] Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host -[985.84 --> 990.66] appeared with the angel praising God and saying, -[990.98 --> 992.58] Glory to God in the highest heaven, -[993.00 --> 997.64] and on earth peace to those whom his favor rests. -[997.64 --> 1012.20] When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, -[1012.86 --> 1016.10] the shepherds said to one another, -[1016.50 --> 1019.70] Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, -[1019.82 --> 1021.50] which the Lord has told us about. -[1021.50 --> 1026.80] So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph and the baby -[1026.80 --> 1028.32] who was lying in the manger. -[1029.28 --> 1030.50] When they had seen him, -[1030.62 --> 1035.62] they spread the word concerning what had been told to them about this child. -[1036.20 --> 1040.52] And all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherd had said to them. -[1041.16 --> 1044.20] But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. -[1044.56 --> 1047.52] The shepherd returned, glorifying and praising God -[1047.52 --> 1050.30] for all the things that they had heard and seen, -[1050.30 --> 1052.82] which were just as they had been told. -[1052.82 --> 1053.22] Thank you. -[1053.22 --> 1053.28] Thank you. -[1080.30 --> 1083.86] Belimi award and humorous. -[1083.86 --> 1086.30] Glorys in Exercix Deo. -[1087.48 --> 1087.88] Gloria. -[1094.38 --> 1096.30] Gloria. -[1096.50 --> 1096.52] In Exercix Deo. -[1097.08 --> 1100.58] In Exercix Deo. -[1105.26 --> 1106.68] Gloria. -[1106.68 --> 1107.26] Coke kin entendu. -[1107.26 --> 1110.28] Angels we have heard are hard. -[1110.28 --> 1115.36] Sweetly singing o'er the plains -[1115.36 --> 1120.08] And the mountains every fly -[1120.08 --> 1124.78] Echoing their joyous wings -[1124.78 --> 1138.88] Gloryer in excelsis Deo -[1138.88 --> 1154.88] Gloria, it shall save Deion -[1154.88 --> 1161.88] Shepherds, why this jubilee? -[1161.88 --> 1166.88] Why your joyous strains prolong? -[1166.88 --> 1170.88] What the blessings I need -[1170.88 --> 1175.88] Which inspire your heavenly songs -[1175.88 --> 1189.88] Gloria, it shall save Deion -[1189.88 --> 1204.88] Gloria, it shall save Deion -[1204.88 --> 1212.88] Come to Bethlehem sing -[1212.88 --> 1217.88] In whose word the angels sing -[1217.88 --> 1221.88] Come adore our melody -[1221.88 --> 1226.88] Christ the Lord, the new King -[1226.88 --> 1227.88] Gloria, it shall save Deion -[1227.88 --> 1240.88] Gloria, it shall save Deion -[1240.88 --> 1242.88] Gloria, it shall save Deion -[1242.88 --> 1246.88] Gloria, it shall save Deion -[1246.88 --> 1256.88] Gloria, it shall save Deion -[1256.88 --> 1261.88] While we go into our next song of Joy to the World -[1261.88 --> 1266.88] We encourage all the kids if they can come up, there's a big bowl full of bells. -[1266.88 --> 1271.88] Please feel free to come up, grab one and bring them as we sing this song together. -[1271.88 --> 1274.88] And then afterwards you can put them back in the bowl. -[1274.88 --> 1276.88] Please feel free to come up, grab one and bring them as we sing this song. -[1276.88 --> 1280.88] Please feel free to come up, grab one and bring them as we sing this song. -[1280.88 --> 1281.88] Wait for me. -[1281.88 --> 1285.88] We come up, we come up. -[1285.88 --> 1290.88] You can put on Your love, you strings in the mouth and put it. -[1290.88 --> 1292.88] Most lyrics are a song. -[1292.88 --> 1297.88] There are many more tricks, you every single arts, you can't give them as we sing this song. -[1297.88 --> 1302.88] Thank you, I have Rock, go over a irritable ingredient에 Damien -[1302.88 --> 1303.88] Amen. -[1332.88 --> 1333.88] Amen. -[1362.88 --> 1364.88] Amen. -[1392.88 --> 1394.88] Amen. -[1422.88 --> 1424.88] Amen. -[1452.88 --> 1454.88] Amen. -[1482.88 --> 1496.88] Joy, unspeakable joy, an overflowing well, no tongue can tell. -[1496.88 --> 1509.88] Joy, unspeakable joy, it rises in my soul, and never lets me go. -[1512.88 --> 1529.88] The bell ringing was great, thank you. -[1529.88 --> 1532.88] You can place them all back in the bowl on the stage, thank you. -[1532.88 --> 1533.88] Thank you. -[1533.88 --> 1534.88] Thank you. -[1534.88 --> 1536.88] Thank you. -[1536.88 --> 1537.88] Thank you. -[1537.88 --> 1539.88] Thank you. -[1539.88 --> 1540.88] Thank you. -[1540.88 --> 1541.88] Thank you. -[1541.88 --> 1542.88] Thank you. -[1542.88 --> 1544.88] Thank you. -[1544.88 --> 1545.88] Thank you. -[1545.88 --> 1546.88] Thank you. -[1546.88 --> 1547.88] Thank you. -[1547.88 --> 1548.88] Thank you. -[1548.88 --> 1549.88] Thank you. -[1549.88 --> 1553.88] Oh come all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant. -[1553.88 --> 1571.98] O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant, -[1571.98 --> 1581.38] O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem. -[1581.38 --> 1591.38] Come and behold Him, born the King of angels. -[1591.38 --> 1596.38] O come, let us adore Him. -[1596.38 --> 1601.38] O come, let us adore Him. -[1601.38 --> 1610.38] O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord. -[1611.38 --> 1622.38] Sing choirs of angels, sing in exultation. -[1622.38 --> 1632.38] Sing, all ye citizens of Bethlehem. -[1632.38 --> 1642.38] Glory to God, all glory in the highest. -[1642.38 --> 1647.38] O come, let us adore Him. -[1647.38 --> 1652.38] O come, let us adore Him. -[1652.38 --> 1664.38] O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord. -[1664.38 --> 1674.38] Hey, Lord, we bring Him for this happy morning. -[1674.38 --> 1684.38] Jesus, to Thee be all glory in the highest. -[1684.38 --> 1693.38] Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing. -[1693.38 --> 1703.38] O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him. -[1703.38 --> 1715.38] O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord. -[1715.38 --> 1725.38] O come, let us adore Him. -[1725.38 --> 1728.38] Please be seated. -[1728.38 --> 1733.38] O come, let us adore Him. -[1733.38 --> 1739.38] For many people, Christmas is a meaningless, depressing time. -[1739.38 --> 1745.38] Many make excuses why the birth of a Savior makes no difference to them. -[1745.38 --> 1749.38] If we could look into their hearts, what would we see? -[1749.38 --> 1751.38] Would we see heartache and pain? -[1751.38 --> 1760.38] Lonely people, unwilling or unable to let Him take over their lives and their hearts? -[1760.38 --> 1769.38] If we look hard enough, maybe we can see something of ourselves, the way we were or are still. -[1769.38 --> 1771.38] What is that to me? -[1771.38 --> 1776.38] A child was born on Christmas Day, but what is that to me? -[1776.38 --> 1780.38] For I have many troubles and cares and bills to pay, you see. -[1780.38 --> 1788.38] A Savior was born on Christmas Day to set His people free, but I am bound by worries and fears. -[1788.38 --> 1790.38] So what is that to me? -[1790.38 --> 1795.38] The Son of God was born to die, but what is that to me? -[1795.38 --> 1797.38] So many children were born to die. -[1797.38 --> 1799.38] How many must there be? -[1799.38 --> 1805.38] A king was born that night, they say, to worship on bended knee. -[1805.38 --> 1809.38] But I still have to live this life, so what is that to me? -[1809.38 --> 1813.38] Jesus Christ, the Savior, was born. -[1813.38 --> 1815.38] They say He holds the key. -[1815.38 --> 1818.38] But my heavy heart is locked inside. -[1818.38 --> 1820.38] So what is that to me? -[1820.38 --> 1828.38] The Lord of creation was born that day, born to die for me. -[1828.38 --> 1832.38] So I could live and die in peace. -[1832.38 --> 1835.38] He's everything to me. -[1835.38 --> 1836.38] He's everything to me. -[1836.38 --> 1845.38] Jesus Christ, the Savior, is being awakened in peace. -[1845.38 --> 1852.38] You can focus on Him myself. -[1852.38 --> 1858.38] During thiscrossing on redes landlords, Julian Reyn Johansson, -[1858.38 --> 1880.06] What child is this who reigns to rest -[1880.06 --> 1886.00] On Mary's lap is sleeping -[1886.00 --> 1893.00] Whom angels weep with anthems sweet -[1893.64 --> 1899.58] While shepherds watch our King -[1899.58 --> 1907.12] This, this is Christ the King -[1907.12 --> 1914.00] Whom shepherds guard and angels sing -[1914.00 --> 1920.00] Haste, haste to bring in love -[1920.58 --> 1927.00] The faithful Son of Mary -[1927.00 --> 1937.00] My life, He begins, our sweetest state -[1937.00 --> 1943.00] Where ox and ass are feeding -[1943.00 --> 1950.00] The Christian fear for sinners here -[1950.00 --> 1957.00] The silent word is pleading -[1957.00 --> 1964.00] The Christian fear for sinners here -[1964.00 --> 1971.00] The cross be born for me for you -[1971.00 --> 1977.00] Hail, hail, the word may flesh -[1977.00 --> 1983.00] The babe, the Son of Mary -[1983.00 --> 1994.00] So bring Him in, says golden bird -[1994.00 --> 2000.00] Come peasant King to own Him -[2000.00 --> 2006.00] The King of kings salvation -[2006.00 --> 2012.00] Reeds the loving hearts in progeny -[2012.00 --> 2017.00] Praise, praise, a song on high -[2017.00 --> 2027.00] The virgin sings the lullaby -[2027.00 --> 2034.00] Joy, joy, Lord Christ is born -[2034.00 --> 2040.00] The babe, the Son of Mary -[2040.00 --> 2047.00] This, this is Christ the King -[2047.00 --> 2054.00] Whom shepherds guard and angels sing -[2054.00 --> 2061.00] Haste, haste to bring in love -[2061.00 --> 2068.00] The babe, the Son of Mary -[2068.00 --> 2080.00] The ihmalfrey -[2080.00 --> 2097.20] unto us a child is born a child is born praise the lord a precious gift a tender babe -[2097.20 --> 2104.44] nations for generations will praise his name but who is he what child is born why praise the name -[2104.44 --> 2112.00] of christ the lord what lord is this what power has he why do magi bend their knee glory glory in the -[2112.00 --> 2119.16] sky as angels sing to god on high for this is jesus christ the son from father spirit three in one -[2119.16 --> 2127.78] unto us a child is born the son of god praise the lord descending once to earth our home the lord of -[2127.78 --> 2134.40] all has left his throne he took on flesh a humble state and lived a life without mistake he -[2134.40 --> 2138.24] lived our pain cried our sorrow died a cruel death for a tomorrow -[2138.24 --> 2149.98] unto us a savior was born he died for me he died for you descending once to hell in place of wicked -[2149.98 --> 2158.38] sinners a hell-bound race ascending then in victory a great thing done once for all history -[2158.38 --> 2168.26] conquering the sin sting of death this babe held by one he'd given breath into us new life is born -[2168.26 --> 2178.58] christ in me christ in you leaving us his peace and joy hope of glory from a baby boy descending once -[2178.58 --> 2186.82] more christ shall come to raise his people in mercy and love a righteous judgment fulfilled by a babe -[2186.82 --> 2195.24] born this morn on christmas day please stand and join us in song with he who is mighty -[2195.24 --> 2217.24] oh the mercy our god has shown to those who sit in death's shadow the sun on high pierced the night born with the comb -[2217.24 --> 2227.24] the cornerstone -[2227.24 --> 2229.24] the sun on high pierced the night born with the cornerstone -[2229.24 --> 2237.24] unto us a son is given unto us a child is born -[2237.24 --> 2257.24] he who is mighty has done a great thing taken on flesh and conquered death's sting shatter the darkness and lifted our shame holy is his name -[2257.24 --> 2271.24] oh the freedom our savior one -[2271.24 --> 2275.24] the hope of sin has been broken -[2275.24 --> 2279.24] once a slave now i praise -[2279.24 --> 2282.84] when he who is high -[2282.84 --> 2283.96] iійсьedes� pol Brendan -[2283.96 --> 2288.72] o護 church -[2288.72 --> 2293.24] nade -[2293.24 --> 2299.24] o -[2299.24 --> 2301.24] o -[2301.24 --> 2303.24] Oh -[2331.24 --> 2333.24] Oh -[2345.24 --> 2347.24] God -[2347.24 --> 2349.24] Oh -[2349.24 --> 2351.24] Oh -[2351.24 --> 2353.24] Oh -[2361.24 --> 2363.24] Taken on flesh -[2363.24 --> 2365.24] Comfort testing -[2365.24 --> 2367.24] Shattered the darkness -[2367.24 --> 2369.24] And lifted our shame -[2369.24 --> 2371.24] Holy -[2371.24 --> 2373.24] Is his name -[2373.24 --> 2375.24] Holy -[2375.24 --> 2379.24] Is his name -[2379.24 --> 2381.24] Holy -[2381.24 --> 2383.24] Is his name -[2385.24 --> 2387.24] Holy -[2387.24 --> 2389.24] is his name -[2397.24 --> 2399.24] Amen -[2399.24 --> 2401.24] Holy -[2401.24 --> 2401.70] Holy -[2401.70 --> 2426.92] Joyful, joyful, we adore you, God of glory, Lord of love. -[2426.92 --> 2434.66] Hearts unfold like clouds before you, both lean to the sun above. -[2434.98 --> 2442.20] Note the clouds of sin and sadness, drive the dark of doubt away. -[2442.74 --> 2450.92] Giver of eternal commandments, fill us with the light of grace. -[2450.92 --> 2455.76] You are the one who saves. -[2456.10 --> 2459.56] You are the one who saves. -[2459.98 --> 2466.74] You are the one who's hands lift us from the grave. -[2466.74 --> 2474.72] You are the light of life, the everlasting day. -[2475.04 --> 2480.74] You are the one who takes all our sins away. -[2480.74 --> 2490.74] You are giving and forgiving, ever-blessing, ever-blessed. -[2490.74 --> 2498.42] Fountain of the joy of living, ocean-lessed of happiness. -[2498.42 --> 2504.42] You are the one who saves. -[2504.42 --> 2507.42] You are the one who saves. -[2507.42 --> 2514.42] You are the one who takes with us from the grave. -[2514.42 --> 2522.42] You are the one who saves. -[2522.42 --> 2528.06] You are the one who takes all our sin away. -[2528.06 --> 2539.82] Joyful, joyful, we adore you, God of glory, Lord of love. -[2539.82 --> 2548.82] Our sun full of clouds before you, open to the sun above. -[2548.82 --> 2553.82] I invite you to see it. -[2566.82 --> 2572.82] Merry Christmas. How fitting that today, the day we celebrate God's awesome gift to us, -[2572.82 --> 2578.82] we are able to be a blessing to others and have a collection for the Benevolence Fund. -[2578.82 --> 2582.82] The money from this fund is used to help those in need, -[2582.82 --> 2588.82] whether they are members of this congregation or others who have come to us from the community. -[2589.82 --> 2592.82] The needs vary and are evaluated by the deacons. -[2592.82 --> 2600.82] It is our privilege through your generosity to be Christ's hands and feet to their need -[2600.82 --> 2603.82] and be a blessing to them. Thank you. -[2630.82 --> 2633.82] Thank you. -[2633.82 --> 2637.82] Thank you. -[2637.82 --> 2639.82] Thank you. -[2639.82 --> 2669.80] Thank you. -[2669.82 --> 2699.80] Thank you. -[2699.82 --> 2729.80] Thank you. -[2729.82 --> 2759.80] Thank you. -[2759.82 --> 2789.80] Thank you. -[2789.80 --> 2791.80] Thank you. -[2791.80 --> 2793.80] Thank you. -[2793.80 --> 2795.80] Thank you. -[2795.80 --> 2797.80] Thank you. -[2797.80 --> 2799.80] Thank you. -[2799.80 --> 2801.80] Thank you. -[2801.80 --> 2807.80] Thank you. -[2807.80 --> 2809.80] Thank you. -[2809.80 --> 2811.80] Thank you. -[2811.80 --> 2813.80] Thank you. -[2813.80 --> 2817.80] Thank you. -[2817.80 --> 2823.80] Thank you. -[2823.80 --> 2825.80] Thank you. -[2825.80 --> 2827.80] Thank you. -[2827.80 --> 2829.80] Thank you. -[2829.80 --> 2839.80] Thank you. -[2839.80 --> 2841.80] Thank you. -[2841.80 --> 2843.80] Thank you. -[2843.80 --> 2845.80] Thank you. -[2845.80 --> 2853.80] Thank you. -[2853.80 --> 2855.80] Thank you. -[2855.80 --> 2857.80] Thank you. -[2857.80 --> 2863.80] Thank you. -[2863.80 --> 2865.80] Thank you. -[2865.80 --> 2867.80] Thank you. -[2867.80 --> 2869.80] Thank you. -[2869.80 --> 2873.80] Thank you. -[2873.80 --> 2885.80] I think you're... -[2885.80 --> 2892.16] challenges that we face. And I think sometimes this can give us maybe a feeling of whiplash. -[2892.26 --> 2904.52] On the one hand, we want to be so very excited all the time, but life can be hard. And we -[2904.52 --> 2909.76] want to remember this week people who have recently lost loved ones. We want to remember -[2909.76 --> 2916.34] the Hummelman family as Anne passed away. We want to remember Greta Visser and her family -[2916.34 --> 2924.96] as Cy also has passed this last week. We want to remember Tanya Smith and Samara Isinga as -[2924.96 --> 2933.10] their grandmother. Judy also passed away recently in Ontario. These are just three families, -[2933.10 --> 2944.92] Lord. And we know everyone here grieves loss. And this season can be really, really hard. -[2945.60 --> 2951.62] So for all those people who are grieving, Father, will you grant a full measure of encouragement, -[2952.96 --> 2961.12] connectedness, and community. We want to remember, too, the underemployed or unemployed people in -[2961.12 --> 2969.46] our midst. And we want to remember those people who are really struggling because of inflation. -[2970.52 --> 2979.54] These are conditions that aren't visible easily. So give all of us eyes to see and ears to hear -[2979.54 --> 2993.22] the need around us. And in the world today, we know there is raging conflicts all around us. -[2993.56 --> 3002.10] And we ask in this season of remembering the Incarnation, Lord, that peace may prevail. -[3002.10 --> 3009.20] And I know it is easy looking at how we people behave to scoff at the idea that there may be peace. -[3011.40 --> 3020.22] But it is possible. So we ask that leaders of the world may acknowledge you and yield to you. -[3020.22 --> 3031.50] And again, Lord, we ask today for a blessing in all our families as we celebrate you and your birth. -[3032.70 --> 3032.96] Amen. -[3032.96 --> 3033.06] Amen. -[3033.06 --> 3033.08] Amen. -[3033.08 --> 3033.10] Amen. -[3033.10 --> 3033.12] Amen. -[3033.12 --> 3033.16] Amen. -[3033.16 --> 3033.18] Amen. -[3033.18 --> 3033.24] Amen. -[3033.24 --> 3033.26] Amen. -[3033.26 --> 3033.28] Amen. -[3033.28 --> 3033.32] Amen. -[3033.32 --> 3033.36] Amen. -[3050.22 --> 3063.32] Amen. -[3063.32 --> 3063.44] Amen. -[3063.44 --> 3064.16] Amen. -[3064.16 --> 3064.44] Amen. -[3064.44 --> 3065.32] Mad Strengthsen liked it. -[3065.32 --> 3066.62] Amen. -[3066.62 --> 3067.32] Amen. -[3067.32 --> 3068.32] Amen. -[3068.32 --> 3068.48] Amen. -[3068.48 --> 3068.66] Amen. -[3068.66 --> 3069.52] Amen. -[3073.46 --> 3074.34] Amen. -[3074.34 --> 3076.36] Amen. -[3076.36 --> 3077.36] Amen. -[3077.36 --> 3078.22] Amen. -[3078.22 --> 3079.22] Amen. -[3079.22 --> 3080.20] Amen. -[3080.20 --> 3086.88] peace, hope, joy, and love. We've been looking at the offerings of the world for those things and -[3086.88 --> 3097.28] turning to God's Word to see what He has to fill us and fulfill in us a sense of peace, hope, joy, -[3097.28 --> 3106.08] and an awareness of His love. And so this morning, I would like to pull all of those -[3106.08 --> 3115.22] things together into one offering. Now, as we've done that, we've been able to hold that in parallel -[3115.22 --> 3123.80] to and in contrast to what's commonly offered. What I hope we can see today and then the culmination -[3123.80 --> 3135.60] of all of this is that in the fullest and most real possible sense, Jesus is your peace. Jesus -[3135.60 --> 3147.14] is your hope. Jesus is your joy. And Jesus shows us true love. Now, all of those four truths are packed -[3147.14 --> 3155.54] into the text that I want to share with you this morning. And so I'm going to read from Luke 1. -[3156.72 --> 3165.56] I'm going to read starting at verse 30, just to verse 33, which is a few short verses. It's the -[3165.56 --> 3176.20] angel's response to Mary after Gabriel has said, you will be with child. And so Luke 1 verse 30. -[3177.10 --> 3184.98] But the angel said to her, do not be afraid, Mary. You have found favor with God. You will conceive and -[3184.98 --> 3192.36] give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the -[3192.36 --> 3199.52] Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob's -[3199.52 --> 3205.28] descendants forever. His kingdom will never end. -[3205.28 --> 3216.02] As we dig into this morning, I'm going to provide a little bit of a road map. And so what I hope that -[3216.02 --> 3224.46] you will see, and it should be on the screen behind me, is out of this text, using the words from Gabriel, -[3224.56 --> 3229.80] where it says, he will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him -[3229.80 --> 3235.62] the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob's descendants forever. His kingdom will -[3235.62 --> 3243.10] never end. Using that descriptor, what I hope we will see is the straight line from Jesus is our peace, -[3243.20 --> 3250.82] like I have said, to from his kingdom will never end. And then Jesus is our hope. The Lord will give him -[3250.82 --> 3257.82] the throne of his father David. Jesus is our joy. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High. -[3257.82 --> 3264.18] And Jesus shows us true love. He will reign over Jacob's descendants forever. -[3265.14 --> 3270.48] Now you can hold that in your head. You can see it there. We will come back and we'll tie all that together -[3270.48 --> 3279.80] at the end. Before we dig into it, though, I suspect that some of you sitting here this morning are already -[3279.80 --> 3282.06] wondering, well, why does it matter? -[3282.06 --> 3291.08] Right? Why does it matter to me? You might say. Because you might sit there and you think, you know, -[3291.18 --> 3299.24] if Jesus is a source of peace for you, great. Some of you are thinking, or some of you know people -[3299.24 --> 3304.94] who think or have said something like, you know, it's great that Jesus is a source of hope for you. -[3304.94 --> 3312.96] He's just not that for me. Sometimes you might hear people say, yeah, sure, Jesus shows us love and he -[3312.96 --> 3319.56] shows us how to be good people. But so does Gandhi. So does Buddha. Right? I don't need Jesus to do that. -[3319.68 --> 3327.84] I don't need any sort of religious person. I can just do it myself. And if that's you this morning, -[3327.84 --> 3335.62] if that's how you think, or if that's what you have said in your heart, first, I just want to say -[3335.62 --> 3343.52] thank you. Thank you for being here. Thank you for coming and being part of this. I'm sure it's because -[3343.52 --> 3348.48] you're trying to make mom happy or because grandma has said, please come to church with us. -[3349.52 --> 3354.22] Or it's because it's Christmas. And if you're going to go to church once a year, it might as well be on -[3354.22 --> 3360.64] Christmas because it's bound to be happy on Christmas. And so thank you for coming. And I -[3360.64 --> 3366.94] really mean that. And I hope you hear that. Thank you for being here. And even if you've never said -[3366.94 --> 3374.16] that, we all know people who have, or we all know people who will. And so maybe this is part of a -[3374.16 --> 3379.04] conversation that you're going to have later today when you sit around that big feast of a table, -[3379.04 --> 3385.36] or when you have conversations with friends and family in the week, or when you go back to university -[3385.36 --> 3391.12] and college and your friends say, what did you do on Christmas? And you say, I went to church. -[3391.30 --> 3401.92] And they go, why on earth would you do that? Now, to make my job even harder, I need you to hear what -[3401.92 --> 3410.00] I said. Because I didn't say that Jesus was a source of peace or a source of hope. I didn't say that -[3410.00 --> 3419.04] Jesus was a source of joy or an example of love among many others out there. What I said was, -[3420.16 --> 3431.82] Jesus is peace. He is hope. He is joy. He is the expression of love taken on flesh. He's -[3431.82 --> 3440.78] not just the ultimate example in a hierarchy of being. He is being itself. Jesus is your peace. -[3441.56 --> 3451.80] Jesus is your hope. Jesus is your joy. And Jesus is your true love. In fact, that's why God sent -[3451.80 --> 3459.16] angels to proclaim him. That's why Gabriel appeared before Mary and told her this great news that he -[3459.16 --> 3464.80] will be great and will be called son of the most high. The Lord God will give him the throne of his -[3464.80 --> 3471.52] father, David, and he will reign over Jacob's descendants forever. His kingdom will never end. -[3472.60 --> 3479.12] That's why angels proclaim his birth to the shepherds that fate filled glorious night. We already -[3479.12 --> 3484.88] heard it, right? There were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks -[3484.88 --> 3490.74] at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them and the glory of the Lord shone around them and they -[3490.74 --> 3498.60] were terrified. But the angel said to them, do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great -[3498.60 --> 3506.02] joy for all the people. Today in the town of David, a savior has been born to you. He is the Messiah, -[3506.36 --> 3512.26] the Lord. This will be a sign to you. You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. -[3512.26 --> 3517.82] And then this image, suddenly a great company of heavenly hosts appeared with the angel praising -[3517.82 --> 3526.40] God and saying, glory to God in the highest heaven and on earth, peace to those on whom his favor rests. -[3526.72 --> 3534.36] This is amazing. And angels came to proclaim him because nothing like this had ever happened before. -[3534.36 --> 3544.36] Nothing like this was even fathomable before. God came down and took on flesh. -[3546.00 --> 3553.94] Now, don't get me wrong, right? Greek religious traditions, Roman religious ideas, Canaanite, -[3554.06 --> 3560.12] Egyptian, Babylonian religions all have stories of a God coming down to earth. -[3560.12 --> 3567.22] But in those systems and in those stories, those gods are fundamentally different than the God of -[3567.22 --> 3575.08] the Bible, right? In those religions and in those histories and traditions, for them, it's a hierarchy -[3575.08 --> 3581.20] of being, right? Where you're just sort of moving up the ladder, where you have non-living minerals at -[3581.20 --> 3588.16] the bottom and then plants and then animals and then humans and then spiritual beings like angels or -[3588.16 --> 3594.08] fairies and the like and then a God and then probably over them another series of gods. -[3595.12 --> 3602.50] The God of the Bible stands apart from all of that because he is transcendent to all other -[3602.50 --> 3609.34] being. You simply can't climb the ladder high enough to find him. Something else has to happen. -[3609.34 --> 3620.18] He has to come to us. That's Christmas. That's Emmanuel, God with us, right? A baby born in a food -[3620.18 --> 3626.80] trough is the creator of the world. The one from whom, through whom, and for whom all things are -[3626.80 --> 3635.02] created entered into space and time of creation. The infinite became finite. The word that was God and -[3635.02 --> 3646.36] was with God made his dwelling among us. This truth is uniquely Christian. And 300 years after Jesus, -[3647.16 --> 3654.56] the church tried to encapsulate this truth in a creed. So there was a big gathering of church leaders -[3654.56 --> 3661.28] and to make this point, they came together and they shared with the world the Nicene Creed. -[3661.28 --> 3667.58] The Nicene Creed, its first form written in 325 AD, says this, -[3669.08 --> 3675.64] The one Lord Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, begotten of the Father before all ages, -[3675.82 --> 3683.94] God from God, light from light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of the same essence -[3683.94 --> 3690.80] as the Father. Now if you hear that, remember the words that we sang earlier, the second verse of, -[3690.80 --> 3694.18] O come all ye faithful, this is the source material for it. -[3696.58 --> 3697.88] Right? The creed continues, -[3698.30 --> 3704.28] Through him, that's Jesus, all things were made for us and for our salvation. He came down from heaven. -[3704.74 --> 3709.56] He became incarnate by the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and was made human. -[3709.56 --> 3719.54] When you say that Jesus is a source, among many others, of peace, or a source, among many others, -[3719.54 --> 3728.62] of hope or joy or love, you are actually coming to Christmas with an incomplete idea of who Jesus is. -[3729.38 --> 3734.68] To be candid, you're coming to Christmas with a pagan idea of who Jesus is. -[3734.68 --> 3742.66] It's closer to a Greek or Roman or Canaanite, Egyptian or Babylonian ideas of how God and gods relate to the world -[3742.66 --> 3746.96] than it is to the Bible. It's not the incarnation of the Bible. -[3747.78 --> 3748.88] Let me illustrate that point. -[3749.68 --> 3753.24] This is an illustration I first came across in the book Center Church. -[3753.24 --> 3766.04] In 1961, Yuri Gagarin was the first man to go into space and orbit Earth. -[3766.74 --> 3772.56] He's a Soviet cosmonaut, and he's piloting a spacecraft called Vostok 1. -[3772.56 --> 3786.04] After his orbit, which took 108 minutes, he came back down to Earth and went to the USSR space station and gave an interview. -[3786.56 --> 3792.32] And because he wanted to affirm the official atheism of the state, -[3793.14 --> 3796.16] he is reported to have said something like, -[3796.16 --> 3802.66] I have been to the heavens, I looked and looked, and I didn't see God anywhere. -[3804.08 --> 3808.54] His idea was he went up to space, to the heavens, and he couldn't find God. -[3809.30 --> 3815.64] Now, perhaps it was tongue-in-cheek, but in the presumption, in that remark, -[3816.34 --> 3821.28] the idea is that God is just higher up in the scale of being, -[3821.28 --> 3825.10] and that if we could go high enough, we might find him. -[3826.26 --> 3831.36] This is the same assumption undergirding the pride of humanity in the story of the Tower of Babel. -[3833.12 --> 3839.00] Now, around the same time as this, C.S. Lewis, who's a Christian author, -[3839.36 --> 3841.44] he's a literary genius and a philosopher, -[3842.02 --> 3845.44] he's a writer of the Chronicles of Narnia or the Space Trilogy, -[3846.38 --> 3849.96] he writes an essay called The Language of Religion. -[3849.96 --> 3856.40] And in that essay, Lewis says that if there is a God, -[3856.88 --> 3862.18] we don't relate to him like people on the first floor of a building -[3862.18 --> 3865.06] relate to people on the second floor of the building, -[3865.06 --> 3866.96] or even on the roof, if we can get high enough. -[3868.02 --> 3871.50] That's what Uri Gagarin was doing when he said, -[3871.62 --> 3873.60] I've been to heaven and I didn't see God there. -[3873.60 --> 3881.36] Instead, Lewis says, we relate to God the way Hamlet relates to Shakespeare. -[3882.60 --> 3884.50] Now, for those of you who don't remember, -[3884.98 --> 3889.00] Hamlet is a play written around 1600 by Shakespeare. -[3890.06 --> 3892.94] And what does Hamlet know of Shakespeare? -[3892.94 --> 3897.38] Nothing. -[3898.76 --> 3902.16] The only way Hamlet can know anything about Shakespeare, -[3903.94 --> 3908.16] because Shakespeare completely transcends the world of Hamlet, -[3908.38 --> 3911.26] the only way Hamlet can know anything about Shakespeare, -[3911.40 --> 3913.46] because Shakespeare is above and outside of it, -[3913.52 --> 3917.56] no amount of climbing into space for Hamlet will find Shakespeare, -[3917.56 --> 3920.40] the only way Hamlet can know anything about him -[3920.40 --> 3923.48] is if Shakespeare writes himself into the play -[3923.48 --> 3925.48] and reveals himself to Hamlet. -[3929.48 --> 3931.16] In the early 20th century, -[3932.16 --> 3935.40] there's an English author by the name of Dorothy Sayers. -[3936.38 --> 3939.94] She is one of the first women to go to Oxford University. -[3940.76 --> 3943.56] She is a writer of mystery stories, -[3943.56 --> 3949.38] and she writes a series of novels about a man named Lord Peter Whimsey. -[3950.04 --> 3952.72] Lord Peter Whimsey in the novels is an aristocrat, -[3953.30 --> 3955.74] a sleuth, and a lonely man. -[3957.22 --> 3960.68] At some point in the series of novels that she has written, -[3961.16 --> 3963.16] a new character appears in the story, -[3963.76 --> 3966.00] and her name is Harriet Vane, -[3966.40 --> 3969.12] and she is described in the novels -[3969.12 --> 3972.74] as one of the first women to attend Oxford University, -[3972.74 --> 3975.50] and as a writer of mystery novels. -[3977.02 --> 3979.20] Eventually, Harriet and Peter meet, -[3979.34 --> 3981.14] they fall in love, and they marry. -[3982.60 --> 3983.38] You see what happened? -[3983.52 --> 3986.58] Dorothy Sayers looked at the world she had created, -[3987.02 --> 3989.60] the world that she had fallen in love with, -[3989.64 --> 3991.32] at the characters that she had created -[3991.32 --> 3993.00] and fallen in love with, -[3993.00 --> 3995.64] and she wrote herself into that story -[3995.64 --> 3996.96] in order to save him, -[3997.82 --> 3999.02] in order to let him know -[3999.02 --> 4001.54] the kind of love that she had for him. -[4002.74 --> 4004.56] That's what happens in the incarnation. -[4005.96 --> 4008.46] God looks at the world he created, -[4008.88 --> 4010.46] and yet had rejected him, -[4010.96 --> 4013.64] and because of his great love for us, -[4013.78 --> 4015.82] he writes himself into the story. -[4016.80 --> 4018.20] We can know God -[4018.20 --> 4020.64] because he reveals himself to us -[4020.64 --> 4022.20] at Christmas in the incarnation. -[4022.56 --> 4023.44] We can know God -[4023.44 --> 4025.48] because he has revealed himself to us -[4025.48 --> 4026.48] in his word. -[4026.48 --> 4027.70] We can know him -[4027.70 --> 4029.62] because he came down to earth -[4029.62 --> 4031.02] to be known. -[4033.88 --> 4034.54] And so, -[4034.86 --> 4037.58] to know something of this God, -[4038.14 --> 4041.16] to know something of this word, -[4041.54 --> 4043.50] of this son who was born, -[4043.66 --> 4046.66] let's quickly do a survey. -[4047.42 --> 4049.74] Paul writes in Colossians. -[4049.74 --> 4051.12] He says, -[4051.66 --> 4053.06] the son is the image -[4053.06 --> 4054.40] of the invisible God, -[4054.50 --> 4056.60] the firstborn over all creation. -[4057.00 --> 4058.28] The son, Jesus, -[4058.48 --> 4060.10] is how we see God. -[4060.96 --> 4062.26] You've heard me say before -[4062.26 --> 4063.10] that in Jesus, -[4063.32 --> 4064.40] God gets a face. -[4065.82 --> 4067.04] For in him, -[4067.16 --> 4068.56] all things were created, -[4068.72 --> 4069.98] things in heaven and on earth, -[4070.12 --> 4071.18] visible and invisible, -[4071.66 --> 4073.02] whether thrones or powers -[4073.02 --> 4074.36] or rulers or authorities. -[4074.96 --> 4076.52] All things have been created -[4076.52 --> 4078.00] through him and for him. -[4078.00 --> 4079.72] He is before all things -[4079.72 --> 4080.60] and in him, -[4080.92 --> 4082.64] all things hold together. -[4082.92 --> 4083.78] Again, hear this. -[4083.88 --> 4085.30] That's the transcendence, right? -[4085.42 --> 4086.76] He, in the Godhead, -[4086.86 --> 4089.06] is above and apart from -[4089.06 --> 4090.74] the world that he created. -[4092.56 --> 4092.78] And then, -[4092.92 --> 4093.98] for God was pleased -[4093.98 --> 4095.30] to have all his fullness -[4095.30 --> 4096.30] dwell in him. -[4097.14 --> 4097.72] That is, -[4097.82 --> 4099.28] like the Nicene Creed said, -[4099.38 --> 4100.88] he is true God -[4100.88 --> 4102.16] from true God. -[4102.98 --> 4103.94] And through him, -[4104.06 --> 4105.50] to reconcile to himself -[4105.50 --> 4106.12] all things, -[4106.20 --> 4107.12] whether things on earth -[4107.12 --> 4108.22] or things in heaven -[4108.22 --> 4109.14] by making peace -[4109.14 --> 4110.04] through his blood -[4110.04 --> 4111.56] shed on the cross. -[4112.28 --> 4113.02] And Paul continues, -[4113.84 --> 4114.74] see to it -[4114.74 --> 4116.58] that no one takes you captive -[4116.58 --> 4117.38] through hollow -[4117.38 --> 4118.74] and deceptive philosophy, -[4118.74 --> 4119.70] which depends on -[4119.70 --> 4120.46] the human tradition, -[4120.58 --> 4121.72] on the elemental forces -[4121.72 --> 4122.92] of this world, -[4122.98 --> 4124.94] rather than on Christ. -[4126.24 --> 4126.72] And Paul is saying, -[4126.80 --> 4128.38] don't accept a substitute -[4128.38 --> 4130.28] for peace or hope -[4130.28 --> 4131.64] or joy or love -[4131.64 --> 4133.78] when Jesus is the true and better. -[4133.78 --> 4135.76] don't settle for something -[4135.76 --> 4137.84] imminent and available -[4137.84 --> 4140.38] when the transcendent -[4140.38 --> 4142.32] is now available to you. -[4143.94 --> 4144.76] For in Christ, -[4144.94 --> 4146.58] all the fullness of the deity -[4146.58 --> 4148.96] lives in bodily form. -[4148.96 --> 4149.94] And in Christ, -[4150.20 --> 4151.34] you have been brought -[4151.34 --> 4152.14] to fullness. -[4153.42 --> 4154.42] And in Christ, -[4154.56 --> 4155.36] you have been brought -[4155.36 --> 4155.86] to fullness. -[4156.08 --> 4156.32] That is, -[4156.70 --> 4158.30] only in Jesus -[4158.30 --> 4160.26] do you have life abundant -[4160.26 --> 4161.74] and life eternal. -[4161.96 --> 4163.22] And let me say really clearly, -[4163.58 --> 4164.60] abundant and eternal -[4164.60 --> 4165.68] are not just -[4165.68 --> 4167.54] quantitative realities. -[4167.54 --> 4168.34] It's not just that -[4168.34 --> 4169.76] you're going to live forever, -[4170.14 --> 4172.14] though that is true in God. -[4172.20 --> 4173.72] In the fullness of Jesus -[4173.72 --> 4175.32] giving you life, -[4175.78 --> 4177.16] the fullness of Jesus -[4177.16 --> 4178.88] is the fullness of life. -[4179.00 --> 4180.32] And that begins here -[4180.32 --> 4181.06] and now, -[4181.12 --> 4182.34] in this moment, -[4182.34 --> 4183.42] when you see Jesus -[4183.42 --> 4184.90] for who he is. -[4185.98 --> 4187.98] This is what is meant for you -[4187.98 --> 4190.72] because God so loved the world -[4190.72 --> 4191.90] that he wrote himself -[4191.90 --> 4193.70] into the story. -[4194.68 --> 4197.74] He is head over every power -[4197.74 --> 4199.06] and authority. -[4201.12 --> 4202.18] This Christmas, -[4202.94 --> 4204.22] I pray, -[4204.96 --> 4207.36] I pray that you would know -[4207.36 --> 4209.24] the peace of Jesus. -[4209.42 --> 4210.86] A peace that surpasses -[4210.86 --> 4212.28] all understanding. -[4212.48 --> 4213.62] A peace that is about -[4213.62 --> 4214.72] your wholeness, -[4215.08 --> 4216.54] your full humanity, -[4216.54 --> 4218.54] your full image bearing, -[4218.96 --> 4220.20] God glorifying, -[4220.46 --> 4222.06] Jesus worshiping, -[4222.46 --> 4224.52] being bought -[4224.52 --> 4225.52] and brought -[4225.52 --> 4226.70] to the fullness -[4226.70 --> 4228.74] of God life. -[4230.30 --> 4232.02] Whatever you've done -[4232.02 --> 4233.64] doesn't matter -[4233.64 --> 4235.26] because Jesus has done -[4235.26 --> 4236.86] more in his life -[4236.86 --> 4237.84] of obedience -[4237.84 --> 4239.94] and has paid for more -[4239.94 --> 4240.80] in his death -[4240.80 --> 4242.20] on the cross. -[4242.90 --> 4244.18] The Bible says -[4244.18 --> 4245.22] very clearly, -[4245.68 --> 4247.04] for he himself -[4247.04 --> 4249.00] is our peace -[4249.00 --> 4249.86] who has made -[4249.86 --> 4250.56] the two groups -[4250.56 --> 4251.64] one has destroyed -[4251.64 --> 4252.26] the barrier, -[4252.70 --> 4253.62] the dividing wall -[4253.62 --> 4254.16] of hostility. -[4255.22 --> 4257.60] Jesus is your peace. -[4258.64 --> 4259.22] Don't settle -[4259.22 --> 4260.28] for something fleeting. -[4260.74 --> 4261.82] Don't imagine him -[4261.82 --> 4262.88] as something less -[4262.88 --> 4264.70] than what he is. -[4264.86 --> 4265.22] Instead, -[4265.58 --> 4266.70] receive in him, -[4266.86 --> 4267.80] what did Luke say? -[4267.92 --> 4268.50] A kingdom -[4268.50 --> 4270.56] that will never end. -[4270.56 --> 4274.48] this Christmas, -[4274.94 --> 4276.10] I pray -[4276.10 --> 4277.48] that you know -[4277.48 --> 4278.52] the hope -[4278.52 --> 4279.90] of Jesus. -[4281.00 --> 4281.74] A hope -[4281.74 --> 4282.52] that isn't based -[4282.52 --> 4283.30] on the strength -[4283.30 --> 4284.18] of your convictions -[4284.18 --> 4285.54] or some other -[4285.54 --> 4287.22] unsure optimism, -[4287.86 --> 4288.60] but a hope -[4288.60 --> 4289.48] that is fixed -[4289.48 --> 4290.48] and certain -[4290.48 --> 4291.68] because of the promises -[4291.68 --> 4292.20] of God, -[4292.28 --> 4293.54] because of who God is. -[4294.04 --> 4295.20] The Bible calls -[4295.20 --> 4296.18] Jesus Christ -[4296.18 --> 4297.54] our hope -[4297.54 --> 4298.84] in 1 Timothy 1. -[4298.84 --> 4301.78] Jesus is your hope. -[4302.62 --> 4303.44] And so don't settle -[4303.44 --> 4303.96] for something -[4303.96 --> 4305.24] limited to this earth -[4305.24 --> 4306.86] or to your experience -[4306.86 --> 4307.30] of it. -[4307.48 --> 4308.62] Don't imagine him -[4308.62 --> 4309.16] as something -[4309.16 --> 4310.44] less than he is. -[4310.78 --> 4311.20] Instead, -[4311.62 --> 4312.68] receive in him -[4312.68 --> 4313.38] the throne -[4313.38 --> 4314.42] of his father, -[4314.82 --> 4315.16] David, -[4315.58 --> 4316.18] a sure -[4316.18 --> 4318.08] and fixed reality, -[4318.30 --> 4319.90] an everlasting kingdom, -[4320.12 --> 4321.04] the restoration -[4321.04 --> 4322.66] of all things -[4322.66 --> 4323.86] towards which -[4323.86 --> 4324.36] we are heading. -[4325.16 --> 4325.98] That's hope. -[4325.98 --> 4328.76] And this Christmas, -[4328.92 --> 4329.32] I pray -[4329.32 --> 4330.24] that you know -[4330.24 --> 4330.80] the joy -[4330.80 --> 4331.86] of Jesus. -[4333.04 --> 4333.44] A joy -[4333.44 --> 4334.32] that doesn't pretend -[4334.32 --> 4334.96] that everything -[4334.96 --> 4335.80] is happy -[4335.80 --> 4336.94] or good, -[4337.04 --> 4337.98] but a joy -[4337.98 --> 4339.22] that pervades -[4339.22 --> 4340.44] even the darkest -[4340.44 --> 4341.12] night -[4341.12 --> 4342.14] of the soul -[4342.14 --> 4343.02] because joy -[4343.02 --> 4343.94] is the only -[4343.94 --> 4345.42] reasonable response -[4345.42 --> 4346.72] when God himself -[4346.72 --> 4347.66] has come down -[4347.66 --> 4348.36] and death -[4348.36 --> 4348.98] is defeated, -[4349.24 --> 4350.24] when God himself -[4350.24 --> 4350.82] has won -[4350.82 --> 4351.66] the victory. -[4352.06 --> 4353.12] Joy is the only -[4353.12 --> 4354.38] reasonable response -[4354.38 --> 4355.22] when the tomb -[4355.22 --> 4356.40] is empty. -[4358.16 --> 4358.70] And so the Bible -[4358.70 --> 4359.82] says that Christians -[4359.82 --> 4360.58] are people -[4360.58 --> 4360.96] who, -[4361.60 --> 4362.14] even though, -[4362.32 --> 4363.06] 1 Peter 1, -[4363.14 --> 4364.48] even though you do not -[4364.48 --> 4365.72] see Jesus now, -[4366.12 --> 4367.22] you believe in him -[4367.22 --> 4367.94] and are filled -[4367.94 --> 4369.38] with an inexpressible -[4369.38 --> 4371.56] and glorious joy. -[4372.56 --> 4373.82] I love that phrase, -[4373.94 --> 4374.88] inexpressible -[4374.88 --> 4375.94] and glorious. -[4378.60 --> 4381.12] Jesus is your joy. -[4381.12 --> 4382.72] So don't settle -[4382.72 --> 4383.88] for something inadequate -[4383.88 --> 4384.94] and that can't handle -[4384.94 --> 4385.44] the weight -[4385.44 --> 4386.40] of God's glory. -[4386.96 --> 4388.08] Don't imagine him -[4388.08 --> 4388.96] as something less -[4388.96 --> 4390.18] than what he is. -[4390.32 --> 4390.70] Instead, -[4391.46 --> 4393.12] receive him -[4393.12 --> 4394.34] as the son -[4394.34 --> 4395.72] of the most high. -[4396.12 --> 4397.10] Call him great -[4397.10 --> 4398.06] like Gabriel -[4398.06 --> 4399.42] and welcome him -[4399.42 --> 4400.56] as the good news -[4400.56 --> 4401.44] of great joy -[4401.44 --> 4403.14] for all people. -[4404.24 --> 4404.94] This Christmas, -[4405.14 --> 4405.60] I pray, -[4405.60 --> 4409.32] I pray that you -[4409.32 --> 4410.82] know the love -[4410.82 --> 4412.14] of Jesus. -[4413.24 --> 4414.18] A love that isn't -[4414.18 --> 4415.02] self-serving -[4415.02 --> 4416.00] or about personal -[4416.00 --> 4416.42] happiness, -[4416.64 --> 4417.64] but a real love, -[4417.68 --> 4419.22] a true and better love -[4419.22 --> 4420.94] that gives of self -[4420.94 --> 4422.14] because that is -[4422.14 --> 4423.26] the way of God -[4423.26 --> 4424.24] and the fellowship -[4424.24 --> 4425.30] for which we were -[4425.30 --> 4426.40] created to live -[4426.40 --> 4426.98] together. -[4428.08 --> 4429.50] The Bible calls us -[4429.50 --> 4430.52] in Ephesians 5 -[4430.52 --> 4431.72] to follow God's -[4431.72 --> 4432.20] example, -[4432.38 --> 4432.58] therefore, -[4432.58 --> 4434.00] as dearly loved -[4434.00 --> 4434.52] children -[4434.52 --> 4435.86] and to walk -[4435.86 --> 4436.70] in the way -[4436.70 --> 4437.64] of love -[4437.64 --> 4439.06] just as Christ -[4439.06 --> 4439.64] loved us -[4439.64 --> 4440.34] and gave himself -[4440.34 --> 4441.08] up for us -[4441.08 --> 4441.76] as a fragrant -[4441.76 --> 4442.80] offering and -[4442.80 --> 4444.46] sacrifice to God. -[4445.16 --> 4446.70] Jesus loves us -[4446.70 --> 4448.44] and has shown us -[4448.44 --> 4450.38] this true love -[4450.38 --> 4451.20] and so don't settle -[4451.20 --> 4452.04] for something other, -[4452.86 --> 4453.76] something that pales -[4453.76 --> 4454.52] in comparison, -[4454.78 --> 4455.20] something that is -[4455.20 --> 4455.90] just a shadow -[4455.90 --> 4457.40] of the true love -[4457.40 --> 4458.70] of God shown to us. -[4458.80 --> 4459.92] Don't imagine him -[4459.92 --> 4460.84] as something less -[4460.84 --> 4461.74] than he is. -[4461.74 --> 4462.30] Instead, -[4463.10 --> 4464.08] see in him, -[4464.56 --> 4465.80] see that he will -[4465.80 --> 4467.36] reign over Jacob's -[4467.36 --> 4468.76] descendants forever -[4468.76 --> 4470.16] with a, -[4470.64 --> 4471.58] how did we say it -[4471.58 --> 4472.44] at the O Holy Night, -[4472.90 --> 4474.10] with a never stopping, -[4474.32 --> 4475.26] never giving up, -[4475.44 --> 4476.08] unbreaking, -[4476.54 --> 4478.14] always and forever -[4478.14 --> 4479.22] love. -[4481.10 --> 4481.74] The incarnation -[4481.74 --> 4483.16] is the beginning -[4483.16 --> 4484.20] of the good news -[4484.20 --> 4485.22] about Jesus. -[4485.44 --> 4486.22] There is nothing -[4486.22 --> 4487.12] like him -[4487.12 --> 4488.42] in all of creation -[4488.42 --> 4489.12] because he -[4489.12 --> 4490.50] is the uncreated one, -[4490.58 --> 4491.50] the son of God -[4491.50 --> 4492.44] who took on flesh. -[4492.86 --> 4493.84] Nothing like this -[4493.84 --> 4494.74] has ever happened -[4494.74 --> 4496.04] in all of history. -[4496.24 --> 4497.16] No matter how many -[4497.16 --> 4498.04] internet memes -[4498.04 --> 4499.18] tell you that Christians -[4499.18 --> 4500.00] stole Christianity -[4500.00 --> 4500.84] from the pagans, -[4501.18 --> 4501.72] they're wrong. -[4505.72 --> 4506.86] Nothing like this -[4506.86 --> 4507.56] has ever happened. -[4507.98 --> 4509.16] There is no comparison. -[4509.94 --> 4510.96] There is no equal. -[4512.44 --> 4515.24] Jesus is our peace. -[4515.24 --> 4517.58] Jesus is our hope. -[4517.58 --> 4518.98] Jesus is our joy. -[4519.34 --> 4521.26] And Jesus is our love. -[4521.40 --> 4522.42] I pray -[4522.42 --> 4523.32] that you -[4523.32 --> 4524.74] know that -[4524.74 --> 4525.44] too. -[4526.50 --> 4527.72] Merry Christmas -[4527.72 --> 4528.88] and amen. -[4529.68 --> 4530.50] Let's pray together. -[4532.70 --> 4533.76] Lord Jesus, -[4534.32 --> 4535.52] help us -[4535.52 --> 4536.64] to see you -[4536.64 --> 4537.94] most clearly -[4537.94 --> 4538.82] today. -[4538.82 --> 4542.16] you have come -[4542.16 --> 4543.20] down from heaven, -[4543.30 --> 4544.30] the transcendent -[4544.30 --> 4545.72] becoming imminent, -[4546.30 --> 4546.90] the infinite -[4546.90 --> 4548.06] becoming finite. -[4548.32 --> 4548.84] You have -[4548.84 --> 4550.36] written yourself -[4550.36 --> 4552.16] into this story -[4552.16 --> 4552.90] so that we -[4552.90 --> 4554.24] might know you -[4554.24 --> 4555.88] and so that you -[4555.88 --> 4556.80] might save us -[4556.80 --> 4557.52] from ourselves. -[4558.52 --> 4559.52] And so we turn -[4559.52 --> 4559.88] to you, -[4560.02 --> 4560.42] Lord Jesus, -[4560.60 --> 4561.60] as the only -[4561.60 --> 4562.68] true -[4562.68 --> 4564.04] and full -[4564.04 --> 4564.78] better -[4564.78 --> 4565.62] complete -[4565.62 --> 4566.48] source -[4566.48 --> 4567.30] of peace, -[4567.52 --> 4568.70] of wholeness, -[4569.60 --> 4570.12] is the only -[4570.12 --> 4570.92] true and better -[4570.92 --> 4571.38] hope, -[4572.26 --> 4572.94] is the only -[4572.94 --> 4573.50] true and better -[4573.50 --> 4573.94] joy, -[4574.40 --> 4575.04] and is the only -[4575.04 --> 4576.10] true and best -[4576.10 --> 4578.46] expression -[4578.46 --> 4580.00] of love. -[4581.48 --> 4582.66] May we sing -[4582.66 --> 4583.40] your praises -[4583.40 --> 4584.48] this Christmas -[4584.48 --> 4585.36] and may we -[4585.36 --> 4586.20] know you -[4586.20 --> 4587.00] more fully. -[4588.82 --> 4589.38] God, -[4589.44 --> 4589.76] whether we -[4589.76 --> 4590.74] have questions, -[4591.84 --> 4592.38] whether we -[4592.38 --> 4593.46] are in the midst -[4593.46 --> 4594.38] of the dark night, -[4594.50 --> 4595.16] whether we are -[4595.16 --> 4596.44] filled with doubts, -[4596.48 --> 4597.88] I pray that you -[4597.88 --> 4599.00] would meet us -[4599.00 --> 4600.60] today in this -[4600.60 --> 4601.70] space, in this -[4601.70 --> 4602.88] place, right here, -[4603.22 --> 4604.10] right now, come -[4604.10 --> 4605.00] down in the power -[4605.00 --> 4606.22] of your spirit and -[4606.22 --> 4607.34] reveal yourself -[4607.34 --> 4607.88] again. -[4608.28 --> 4609.36] In Jesus' name -[4609.36 --> 4609.90] we pray. -[4610.96 --> 4611.36] Amen. -[4612.58 --> 4612.98] Amen. -[4612.98 --> 4613.08] Amen. -[4621.08 --> 4622.32] Please rise and sing. -[4622.32 --> 4622.88] Amen. -[4622.88 --> 4623.44] Amen. -[4623.44 --> 4623.48] Amen. -[4623.48 --> 4623.88] Amen. -[4623.88 --> 4623.94] Amen. -[4623.94 --> 4624.00] Amen. -[4624.00 --> 4624.44] Amen. -[4624.44 --> 4624.48] Amen. -[4624.48 --> 4625.00] Amen. -[4625.00 --> 4625.48] Amen. -[4625.48 --> 4626.46] Amen. -[4626.64 --> 4631.94] Amen. -[4653.60 --> 4653.66] Amen. -[4653.66 --> 4654.38] Amen. -[4654.38 --> 4654.94] Amen. -[4654.94 --> 4655.70] Amen. -[4655.70 --> 4669.70] shame of scandal came the savior of the human race -[4669.70 --> 4683.70] shepherds listen as the angels tell -[4685.70 --> 4699.70] king of heaven now a friend of sinners humble servant in the father's hands -[4699.70 --> 4709.70] filled with power and the holy spirit filled with mercy for the broken hands -[4709.70 --> 4715.70] yes he walked my road and he felt my pain -[4715.70 --> 4721.70] joys and sorrows that i know so well -[4721.70 --> 4735.70] is -[4735.70 --> 4745.70] through the kisses of a friend's betrayal he was lifted on a cruel cross -[4745.70 --> 4751.70] he was punished for a world's transgressions -[4751.70 --> 4757.70] he was suffering to save the lost -[4757.70 --> 4763.70] he fights for breath he fights for me -[4763.70 --> 4767.70] losing sinners from the pains of hell -[4767.70 --> 4773.70] and with a shout our souls are free -[4773.70 --> 4775.70] and he was -[4775.70 --> 4777.70] defeated by -[4777.70 --> 4781.70] emmanuel -[4781.70 --> 4785.70] now he's standing in the place of -[4785.70 --> 4787.70] honor -[4787.70 --> 4789.70] crowned with glory of the -[4789.70 --> 4791.70] highest lord -[4791.70 --> 4795.70] he's receding for his own -[4795.70 --> 4797.70] beloved -[4797.70 --> 4799.70] to his father -[4799.70 --> 4803.70] to bring him home -[4803.70 --> 4805.70] and the skies will part -[4805.70 --> 4809.70] as the trumpet sounds -[4809.70 --> 4811.70] hope of heaven -[4811.70 --> 4813.70] or the fear of hell -[4813.70 --> 4815.70] but the pride will run -[4815.70 --> 4819.70] to her father's arms -[4819.70 --> 4841.70] giving glory to -[4841.70 --> 4853.70] emmanuel -[4853.70 --> 4855.70] as you go today -[4855.70 --> 4857.70] and into this week -[4857.70 --> 4859.70] we go with the blessing of god -[4859.70 --> 4861.70] who has come down to us -[4861.70 --> 4863.70] and who goes with us -[4863.70 --> 4865.70] before our service -[4865.70 --> 4867.70] this morning -[4867.70 --> 4869.70] one of the elders who has been in charge -[4869.70 --> 4871.70] of coffee service -[4871.70 --> 4873.70] said we need to do coffee again -[4873.70 --> 4874.70] after church -[4874.70 --> 4875.70] and so if you have the time -[4875.70 --> 4876.70] and the capacity -[4876.70 --> 4877.70] please be invited -[4877.70 --> 4878.70] to stick around -[4878.70 --> 4880.70] for coffee and fellowship today -[4880.70 --> 4882.70] which should be -[4882.70 --> 4883.70] assuming everything went right -[4883.70 --> 4884.70] John -[4884.70 --> 4886.70] ready to go for us -[4886.70 --> 4887.70] there -[4887.70 --> 4888.70] let's -[4888.70 --> 4890.70] receive the blessing of our god -[4892.70 --> 4895.70] god has come down to lead you -[4895.70 --> 4898.70] god has come down to protect you -[4898.70 --> 4900.70] god has come down to support you -[4900.70 --> 4902.70] god has come down to befriend you -[4902.70 --> 4904.70] do not be afraid -[4904.70 --> 4906.70] let the blessing of god -[4906.70 --> 4908.70] come upon you this Christmas -[4908.70 --> 4910.70] do not be afraid -[4910.70 --> 4912.70] but go in peace -[4912.70 --> 4913.70] hope -[4913.70 --> 4914.70] joy -[4914.70 --> 4915.70] and love -[4915.70 --> 4916.70] to serve -[4916.70 --> 4917.70] the lord -[4917.70 --> 4918.70] amen -[4928.70 --> 4944.70] sing we the song of emmanuel -[4944.70 --> 4949.70] this the christ who was long foretold -[4949.70 --> 4950.70] love -[4950.70 --> 4951.70] in the shadows of bethlehem -[4951.70 --> 4953.70] promise of dawn -[4953.70 --> 4955.70] now our eyes behold -[4955.70 --> 4956.70] god holds high in a major lake -[4956.70 --> 4957.70] lift your voices and now proclaim -[4957.70 --> 4958.70] great and glorious -[4958.70 --> 4959.70] god has come to us -[4959.70 --> 4962.70] join now with the hosts of heaven -[4962.70 --> 4972.70] come we to welcome emmanuel -[4972.70 --> 4974.70] We will also have -[4974.70 --> 4987.70] Come we to welcome -[4987.70 --> 4989.34] Emmanuel -[4989.34 --> 4991.98] King who came -[4991.98 --> 4993.70] With no crown or throne -[4994.24 --> 4995.82] Help us see -[4995.82 --> 4998.06] Lady invincible -[4998.06 --> 5000.86] Maker of Mary -[5000.86 --> 5003.10] A merry sign -[5003.10 --> 5005.26] Oh what wisdom -[5005.26 --> 5007.44] To save us all -[5007.44 --> 5009.58] Shepherds, sages -[5009.58 --> 5011.64] Be born in fall -[5011.64 --> 5013.88] Grace and majesty -[5013.88 --> 5015.92] What humility -[5015.92 --> 5017.48] Come on -[5017.48 --> 5018.36] Bend with me -[5018.36 --> 5020.56] Adore Him -[5020.56 --> 5032.38] Go spread the news -[5032.38 --> 5034.14] Of Emmanuel -[5034.14 --> 5036.84] Joy and peace -[5036.84 --> 5039.22] For the weary heart -[5039.22 --> 5041.28] Lift up your heads -[5041.28 --> 5043.54] For your King has come -[5043.54 --> 5045.72] Sing for the light -[5045.72 --> 5047.98] Overwhelms the dawn -[5047.98 --> 5055.56] Glory shining for all to see -[5055.56 --> 5059.88] Hope alive let the gospel ring -[5059.88 --> 5062.32] God has made a way -[5062.32 --> 5064.54] He will have a race -[5064.54 --> 5068.14] Tell the world the name is Jesus -[5068.14 --> 5072.88] Glory shining for all to see -[5072.88 --> 5077.10] Hope alive let the gospel ring -[5077.10 --> 5079.50] God has made a way -[5079.50 --> 5081.72] He will have a race -[5081.72 --> 5085.26] Tell the world the name is Jesus -[5085.26 --> 5090.16] Million -[5090.16 --> 5090.68] Glory -[5090.68 --> 5105.98] Gloria -[5105.98 --> 5107.84] Gloria -[5111.84 --> 5113.96] Gloria -[5113.96 --> 5138.76] Oh -[5143.96 --> 5145.96] Oh -[5173.96 --> 5175.96] Oh -[5203.96 --> 5215.88] For this last song we are going to sing a song that is a long-standing tradition in our church and in many -[5215.88 --> 5222.16] churches reformed churches of a dutch background it is going to be in dutch and in english -[5222.16 --> 5227.32] both words will be up there and i encourage you to sing in whatever you enjoy most -[5233.96 --> 5249.96] world -[5251.56 --> 5257.56] getting -[5263.96 --> 5265.96] Oh -[5293.96 --> 5295.96] Oh -[5323.96 --> 5325.96] Oh -[5353.96 --> 5355.96] Oh -[5383.96 --> 5385.96] Oh -[5413.96 --> 5415.96] Oh -[5443.96 --> 5445.96] Oh -[5473.96 --> 5475.96] Oh -[5475.96 --> 5477.96] Oh -[5477.96 --> 5479.96] Oh -[5481.96 --> 5483.96] Oh -[5483.96 --> 5485.96] Oh -[5487.96 --> 5489.96] Oh -[5491.96 --> 5493.96] Oh -[5493.96 --> 5495.96] Oh -[5499.96 --> 5501.96] Oh -[5503.96 --> 5505.96] Oh -[5509.96 --> 5511.96] Oh -[5513.96 --> 5515.96] Oh -[5515.96 --> 5517.96] Oh -[5519.96 --> 5521.96] Oh -[5523.96 --> 5525.96] Oh -[5529.96 --> 5531.96] Oh -[5531.96 --> 5561.94] Thank you. -[5561.96 --> 5591.94] Thank you. -[5591.96 --> 5621.94] Thank you. -[5621.96 --> 5651.94] Thank you. -[5651.96 --> 5681.94] Thank you. -[5681.96 --> 5711.94] Thank you. -[5711.96 --> 5741.94] Thank you. -[5741.96 --> 5771.94] Thank you. -[5771.96 --> 5801.94] Thank you. -[5801.96 --> 5831.94] Thank you. -[5831.96 --> 5861.94] Thank you. -[5861.96 --> 5891.94] Thank you. -[5891.96 --> 5921.94] Thank you. -[5921.96 --> 5951.94] Thank you. -[5951.94 --> 5981.92] Thank you. -[5981.94 --> 6011.92] Thank you. -[6011.94 --> 6041.92] Thank you. -[6041.94 --> 6071.92] Thank you. -[6071.94 --> 6101.92] Thank you. -[6101.94 --> 6131.92] Thank you. -[6131.94 --> 6161.92] Thank you. -[6161.94 --> 6191.92] Thank you. -[6191.94 --> 6221.92] Thank you. -[6221.94 --> 6251.92] Thank you. -[6251.94 --> 6281.92] Thank you. -[6281.94 --> 6311.92] Thank you. -[6311.94 --> 6341.92] Thank you. -[6341.94 --> 6371.92] Thank you. -[6371.94 --> 6401.92] Thank you. -[6401.94 --> 6431.92] Thank you. -[6431.94 --> 6461.92] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 29, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 29, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 00471a34d1f5f25ed1c6f28bab7181bbdb25adc5..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 29, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,99 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction to the worship service -• Special welcome for guests and introduction of Pastor Chris -• Announcements: upcoming worship gatherings at Sunridge Gardens and a prayer hour before Sunday morning service -• Opening worship song "Now is the Time" from Psalm 147 -• Invitation to worship and surrender -• Offering of heart and praise -• Reflection on past year and gratitude for blessings -• Seeking forgiveness for shortcomings and guidance for the future -• Requesting courage and wisdom to follow one's faith -• Praying for peace, guidance, and company in the year ahead -• Discussion of spiritual themes and personal connection with God -• Explanation of the Christmas season and birth of Jesus Christ -• Description of the wise men and their gifts (gold, frankincense, myrrh) -• Discussion of worship as a form of reverence for Jesus -• Introduction to a poem about the story of the wise men -• Activity involving M&Ms with letters turning into words or numbers -• Discussion of worship and its relation to the three wise men -• Prayer for Chris' sermon to be filled with the Holy Spirit -• Prayers for specific individuals, including: - + The Wagoner family (Doug's health) - + Tanya (cancer treatment) -• Prayers for college students and university students -• Prayers for those traveling during winter break -• Prayers for the church's ministries, including leaders and participants -• Prayers for the world, seeking peace and God's transformation of souls -• Prayer for the church to live like citizens of heaven -• The concept of Emmanuel (God with us) and its significance beyond Christmas -• Isaiah 61 and the identity of the speaker: servant or anointed one (Messiah) -• The fullness of God revealed in Jesus as the God-man -• The relationship between Jesus' humanity and divinity, and its implications for human identity -• The Messiah's coming establishes righteousness -• The suffering servant and the Messiah King are one person, Jesus -• Jesus is God's anointed, ruler over all, who comes to serve and give his life as a ransom for many -• Isaiah 61 describes the gospel and the good news of Jesus' ministry -• Jesus reads from Isaiah 61 in Luke 4 and says the scripture is fulfilled -• The pronouns shift from "they" to "you" in verse 6, making it personal -• You will be called priests of the Lord and named ministers of God -• An everlasting covenant is made with those who come under Jesus' grace and mercy -• The servant Messiah's word is God's word, he speaks as one with authority -• Three voices are heard: the suffering servant and the Messiah King combined as one, the content of what Jesus speaks and promises, and God's voice confirming gospel truth. -• Clothing oneself with garments of salvation -• The righteousness of Christ and its economic implications -• Overcoming self-doubt and feeling "good enough" through faith in Christ's righteousness -• Being clothed in Christ's righteousness means nothing can separate us from God's love -• Righteousness is a reality that walks and has legs; it is an economic term with theological significance -• Putting on Christ means walking with him, living like him, and obeying his will -• Obeying God's design brings flourishing and joy in life -• Joining Christ in his suffering means joining him in his resurrection. -• The speaker emphasizes that obedience to Jesus is better than following cultural or worldly norms. -• Christians often rationalize their sin and don't live according to God's standards, but instead live like non-believers. -• Living a life in the power of the Spirit, with a new creation self and born-again identity, is key to being a true follower of Jesus. -• The problem in the Christian church today is that many profess faith but fail to demonstrate it in their daily lives, living as if God isn't real or sovereign. -• Transformation of heart from stone to flesh -• Inner transformation that affects outward behavior -• Importance of discipline and living a transformed life -• Pursuing new humanity as children of God -• Message of redemption and vindication for Zion/Jerusalem -• Servant Messiah's role in proclaiming the gospel and transforming lives -• Proclamation of God's glory through the servant Messiah -• Call to declare the praises of Jesus Christ -• Confirmation of a new name bestowed by the Lord -• Association with a crown of splendor in the Lord's hand -• Revelation 3: Messages from Jesus to churches, emphasizing endurance and overcoming -• Holding onto one's spiritual heritage to avoid losing one's crown -• The promise of being written into God's temple, never again to leave it -• Writing on individuals the names of God and the city of God (New Jerusalem) -• The glory and beauty of God -• Jesus as Messiah and servant, giving crowns and righteousness to believers -• The fullness of God and humanity revealed through Jesus -• A new name given by the Lord to those who are victorious -• Writing of the Lord's name, the city of God (New Jerusalem), and a new name on those who are saved -• The idea of knowing someone's true name giving power over them -• Christianity in the West declining, leading to a resurgence of paganism -• The priestly blessing mentioned in Numbers 6:24-26 -• God's name being invoked for protection and blessings -• Baptism and the significance of God's name in it -• The concept of Israelites bearing God's name and being blessed by Him -• Jesus' promise to give believers the name of the city of God, New Jerusalem -• Bible references to new names, specifically Isaiah 62 and Revelation 3 -• The name Jesus as a reference to one's new identity in God -• The concept of living with purpose and revealing God's kingdom -• Human transformation through God's power, including taking on Christ-like characteristics -• Recognizing areas in life that need transformation by living according to God's righteousness -• Committing to a lifestyle of obedience and discipleship to show one can live victorious as a follower of Jesus -• Messiah gives a new name that comes with a new purpose -• The fullness of God and humanity has been shown, which is the life we want to live -• Transformation through grace and faith for those who believe -• Being sent out as new creations with the power of the spirit to live transformed lives -• Revealing God's kingdom and living transformed lives to do God's work -• Prayer for connection and relationship with God -• Request to be surrounded by good things and a melody of deliverance from enemies -• Declaration of freedom from fear, being a child of God -• Mention of love and chosen status from birth -• Reflection on mortality and absence of loved ones -• Reiteration of identity as a child of God -• Bible verses and hymn lyrics referencing Christ's glory, kingdom, and rule -• Praise and worship of Christ as King and Savior -• References to living water, mercy, and kindness in relation to Christ -• Acknowledgment of the faithful and true followers of Christ, the Lamb who was born for sin \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 29, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 29, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index becf3e54ed59fb8f789a914f87f2b78aea080ec1..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 29, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1676 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 5.86] What a powerful name it is, the name of Jesus. -[6.46 --> 13.00] What a powerful name it is, the name of Jesus. -[13.00 --> 42.98] What a powerful name it is, the name of Jesus. -[43.00 --> 72.98] What a powerful name it is, the name of Jesus. -[73.00 --> 75.00] O Lord, the name of Jesus. -[81.58 --> 83.04] What a powerful name it is, the name of Jesus. -[83.04 --> 87.98] What a powerful name it is, the name of Jesus. -[87.98 --> 90.46] today there's no reason -[90.46 --> 94.38] to wait jesus is calling -[94.38 --> 101.82] bring your sorrows and trade them for joy -[101.82 --> 107.18] from the ashes a new life is born -[107.18 --> 109.82] jesus is calling -[109.82 --> 117.82] oh -[121.82 --> 125.82] oh -[131.34 --> 135.82] jesus -[135.82 --> 140.78] the precious blood -[140.78 --> 141.66] oh -[141.66 --> 143.86] the savior -[143.86 --> 150.20] isn't he wonderful -[150.20 --> 154.06] sing hallelujah -[154.06 --> 157.88] Christ is risen -[157.88 --> 163.06] bow down before -[165.82 --> 171.68] good morning everyone -[171.68 --> 175.16] welcome to worship -[175.16 --> 178.84] a special welcome if you are a guest among us -[178.84 --> 182.24] today my name is Chris I'm one of the pastors here -[182.24 --> 187.18] and it's my privilege to lead in our shared worship this morning -[187.18 --> 191.10] along with these others on stage and a couple more we haven't yet seen -[191.10 --> 197.96] this morning as we gather to worship our God we're doing so in this -[197.96 --> 203.10] sort of strange like coming out of Christmas anticipating -[203.10 --> 208.54] New Year's in the middle of vacations for some of us and breaks from school -[208.54 --> 211.12] and the like and so we're kind of in this -[211.12 --> 214.96] middle space waiting for something and I would -[214.96 --> 219.08] just want to name that as an opportunity to bring whatever that is for you -[219.08 --> 219.94] into worship -[219.94 --> 221.12] today -[221.12 --> 223.40] before we begin we have a couple -[223.40 --> 225.02] quick announcements -[225.02 --> 227.92] the first next Saturday -[227.92 --> 232.92] at 2 p.m. we are hosting just a small -[232.92 --> 235.92] gathering for worship at Sunridge Gardens -[235.92 --> 239.78] which is a retirement living facility up the hill from us here -[239.78 --> 245.62] so a group from that place gathers together we have some residents who live -[245.62 --> 250.38] there who are members of our church and there's usually about 20 to 35 or so -[250.38 --> 252.50] people who gather for that and you're -[252.50 --> 258.48] invited to join with them at 2 p.m. next Saturday up the hill if you have any -[258.48 --> 260.16] questions about that you can talk to me -[260.16 --> 265.68] or Paul raise your hand Paul's leading next week so he can answer your -[265.68 --> 271.52] questions too and then also next Sunday morning before our -[271.52 --> 276.58] regular worship at 10 at 9 a.m. there's a prayer hour -[276.58 --> 282.06] it's more like a prayer half hour or so at 9 a.m. for anyone who is interested in -[282.06 --> 286.24] gathering before service to pray but whatever it is you want to lift up to -[286.24 --> 290.36] the Lord there's a group that will meet in the library before our worship -[290.36 --> 293.10] together that's all for our announcements this morning -[293.10 --> 297.76] and so let's stand together as we can be ushered into God's presence -[297.76 --> 301.50] stand together so we can sing praises to our God -[301.50 --> 309.20] this morning before we begin receive the greeting of our God -[309.20 --> 315.48] grace mercy and peace to you from God our Father -[315.48 --> 318.64] from the Lord Jesus Christ Son and our Savior -[318.64 --> 321.74] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit -[321.74 --> 322.98] Father amen -[338.48 --> 341.14] shooting -[341.14 --> 362.06] Good morning. -[363.42 --> 368.38] This morning we're called and carried into worship with words from Psalm 147. -[368.38 --> 373.44] Praise the Lord. How good it is to sing praises to our God. -[374.08 --> 376.18] How pleasant and fitting to praise Him. -[377.20 --> 380.52] Sing to the Lord with grateful praise. Make music to our God. -[381.94 --> 386.92] The Lord delights in those who fear Him, who put their hope in His unfailing love. -[387.36 --> 387.72] Let's sing. -[398.38 --> 412.28] Now is the time to worship. -[414.28 --> 414.76] Come. -[414.76 --> 421.92] Now is the time to give your heart. -[422.70 --> 423.40] Come. -[424.62 --> 429.04] Just as you are to worship. -[431.04 --> 431.76] Come. -[431.76 --> 438.76] Just as you are before your heart. -[439.44 --> 439.90] Come. -[442.90 --> 447.10] On every tongue, the grass, you are wrong. -[447.56 --> 450.10] On every knee, you bow. -[451.44 --> 455.26] Still the greatest treasure remains on those. -[455.66 --> 458.64] The light we choose to bow. -[458.64 --> 459.64] Come. -[459.64 --> 460.64] Come. -[460.64 --> 461.64] Come. -[461.64 --> 462.64] Come. -[462.64 --> 467.64] Now is the time to worship. -[467.64 --> 468.64] Come. -[468.64 --> 469.64] Come. -[469.64 --> 473.64] Now is the time to give your heart. -[473.64 --> 474.64] Come. -[474.64 --> 475.64] Come. -[475.64 --> 479.64] Just as you are to worship. -[479.64 --> 480.64] Come. -[480.64 --> 481.64] Come. -[481.64 --> 493.64] Just as you are before your heart. -[493.64 --> 494.64] Come. -[494.64 --> 495.64] Come. -[495.64 --> 496.64] Come. -[496.64 --> 497.64] Come. -[497.64 --> 498.64] Come. -[498.64 --> 499.64] Come. -[499.64 --> 500.64] Come. -[500.64 --> 501.64] Come. -[501.64 --> 502.64] Come. -[502.64 --> 503.64] Come. -[503.64 --> 504.64] Come. -[504.64 --> 505.64] Come. -[505.64 --> 506.64] Come. -[506.64 --> 507.64] Come. -[507.64 --> 508.64] Come. -[508.64 --> 509.64] Come. -[509.64 --> 510.64] Bill who you are. -[510.64 --> 514.64] Mr bonus are bringing properly if they were to therone ofrest and did NeinE came or -[514.64 --> 516.64] do not ring to you for your heart cannot r tall. -[516.64 --> 523.94] We're willing to surrender our hearts, willing to our knees to bow. -[524.98 --> 532.16] With all our hearts told, blind and straight, we're glad we choose to bow. -[532.16 --> 541.92] Come, now is the time to worship. -[543.92 --> 551.74] Come, now is the time to give your heart. -[551.74 --> 552.92] Come. -[562.16 --> 564.16] Come. -[592.16 --> 592.68] Come. -[592.68 --> 593.38] Come. -[593.38 --> 593.50] Come. -[593.50 --> 594.00] Tom. -[594.00 --> 594.96] Now is the time to worship. -[594.96 --> 595.04] Come. -[595.04 --> 595.32] Come. -[595.32 --> 595.80] Come. -[595.80 --> 596.18] Look. -[596.18 --> 596.84] Like. -[599.36 --> 608.32] And as I let him in, I will sing him. -[608.32 --> 619.62] Let him in his party. -[619.62 --> 624.26] I will give you all my worship. -[625.00 --> 629.50] I will give you all my praise. -[629.86 --> 633.40] You alone I long to worship. -[634.34 --> 638.38] You alone I bring me up my heart. -[638.38 --> 642.74] I will come down. -[642.74 --> 646.96] I will heal you as he. -[646.96 --> 649.80] I will serve you. -[649.80 --> 651.86] I will serve you. -[651.86 --> 653.60] I will give you everything. -[656.56 --> 658.90] I will lift up. -[661.04 --> 663.30] My eyes to your throne. -[663.30 --> 665.60] My eyes to your throne. -[665.82 --> 668.08] I will trust you. -[668.14 --> 670.20] I will trust you. -[670.24 --> 672.08] I will trust you alone. -[672.42 --> 674.80] I will trust you alone. -[674.80 --> 679.02] I will give you all my worship. -[679.92 --> 684.18] I will give you all my praise. -[684.52 --> 688.14] You alone I long to worship. -[688.14 --> 693.14] You alone I bring me up my heart. -[693.14 --> 697.36] I will give you all my worship. -[697.36 --> 702.36] I will give you all my praise. -[702.36 --> 706.58] You alone I long to worship. -[706.58 --> 712.74] You alone I bring me up my praise. -[712.74 --> 716.96] I will give you all my praise. -[716.96 --> 718.96] I will give you all my praise. -[718.96 --> 720.70] Join your heart with mine in prayer. -[720.70 --> 724.92] God of all time who makes all things new. -[724.92 --> 727.84] We bring before you the year now ending. -[727.84 --> 730.04] For life full and good. -[730.04 --> 732.76] For opportunities recognized and taken. -[732.76 --> 734.90] For love known and shared. -[734.90 --> 735.76] We thank you. -[735.76 --> 737.92] Where we have fallen short. -[737.92 --> 738.84] Forgive us. -[738.84 --> 741.48] When we worry over what is past. -[741.48 --> 742.42] Free us. -[742.42 --> 744.18] As we begin again. -[744.18 --> 746.90] And take our first few steps into the future. -[746.90 --> 749.34] Where nothing is safe and certain. -[749.34 --> 751.10] Except you. -[751.10 --> 753.56] We ask for the courage of the Magda. -[753.56 --> 756.34] Who simply went and followed a star. -[756.34 --> 757.64] We ask for their wisdom. -[757.64 --> 760.38] In choosing to pursue the deepest truth. -[760.38 --> 762.72] Not knowing where they would be led. -[762.72 --> 763.72] In the year to come. -[763.72 --> 764.72] God of all time. -[764.72 --> 766.96] Be our help and company. -[766.96 --> 769.46] Hold our hands as we journey onward. -[769.46 --> 771.58] And may your promise of Shalom. -[771.58 --> 773.46] Where all will be at peace. -[773.46 --> 775.46] Be our guiding star. -[775.46 --> 777.22] And in Jesus name we pray this. -[777.22 --> 778.22] Amen. -[779.34 --> 779.78] Amen. -[780.98 --> 781.40] Amen. -[781.40 --> 782.56] Amen. -[782.56 --> 784.54] Amen. -[785.76 --> 788.84] Amen. -[788.84 --> 793.10] Amen. -[793.10 --> 793.70] Amen. -[793.70 --> 793.88] Amen. -[793.88 --> 794.34] Amen. -[794.34 --> 794.78] Amen. -[794.78 --> 794.84] Amen. -[794.88 --> 795.36] Amen. -[795.36 --> 795.76] Amen. -[795.76 --> 795.84] Amen. -[795.84 --> 796.46] Amen. -[796.84 --> 797.08] Amen. -[797.08 --> 797.46] Amen. -[797.46 --> 797.64] Amen. -[797.64 --> 797.76] Amen. -[797.76 --> 798.16] Amen. -[798.24 --> 801.30] Amen. -[802.70 --> 803.06] Amen. -[803.06 --> 804.20] Amen. -[804.20 --> 805.16] Amen. -[805.16 --> 806.54] Oh, God. -[806.54 --> 807.50] Amen. -[807.50 --> 808.66] Amen. -[808.66 --> 812.80] This is the air I breathe. -[814.56 --> 819.46] This is the air I breathe. -[819.46 --> 829.30] Your holy presence will lead me. -[833.08 --> 837.60] This is my daily breath. -[838.66 --> 844.06] This is my daily breath. -[844.06 --> 856.06] Your very words spoken to me. -[856.86 --> 865.62] I, I destroy you. -[865.62 --> 877.02] And now I was without you. -[877.02 --> 887.42] This is the air I breathe. -[888.42 --> 893.42] This is the air I breathe. -[893.42 --> 904.82] Your holy presence will lead me. -[904.82 --> 916.22] This is my daily breath. -[916.22 --> 919.62] This is my daily breath. -[919.62 --> 927.62] Your very word spoken to me. -[927.62 --> 939.02] This is my daily breath. -[939.02 --> 950.42] This is my daily breath. -[950.42 --> 961.82] This is my daily breath. -[961.82 --> 973.22] This is my daily breath. -[973.22 --> 984.62] This is my daily breath. -[984.62 --> 996.02] This is my daily breath. -[996.02 --> 998.02] Amen. -[1026.02 --> 1028.02] Amen. -[1056.02 --> 1058.02] Amen. -[1086.02 --> 1088.02] Amen. -[1116.02 --> 1118.02] Amen. -[1146.02 --> 1148.02] Amen. -[1176.02 --> 1178.02] Amen. -[1206.02 --> 1208.02] Amen. -[1236.02 --> 1238.02] Amen. -[1266.02 --> 1268.02] Amen. -[1296.02 --> 1298.02] Amen. -[1326.02 --> 1328.02] Amen. -[1356.02 --> 1358.02] Amen. -[1386.02 --> 1388.02] Amen. -[1416.02 --> 1418.02] Amen. -[1446.02 --> 1448.02] Amen. -[1448.02 --> 1450.02] Amen. -[1450.02 --> 1452.02] Amen. -[1456.02 --> 1458.02] Good morning, everybody. -[1458.02 --> 1462.02] Can I have preschool all the way up to grade four come up to the front? -[1462.02 --> 1470.02] How is everybody doing this morning? -[1470.02 --> 1472.02] Good. -[1472.02 --> 1474.02] Good. -[1474.02 --> 1476.02] I have a few things to put out. -[1476.02 --> 1478.02] Just a second. -[1478.02 --> 1480.02] Oops. -[1484.02 --> 1488.02] Oh, here we go. -[1488.02 --> 1490.02] Perfect. -[1500.02 --> 1501.02] Okay. -[1501.02 --> 1505.02] So we have been learning about, of course, this is the Christmas season. -[1505.02 --> 1511.02] So we have been learning about talking to Matthew about the various parts of the Christmas story. -[1511.02 --> 1513.02] So we just celebrated. -[1513.02 --> 1515.02] What did we just celebrate? -[1515.02 --> 1517.02] The birth of Jesus Christ. -[1517.02 --> 1522.02] And before that, we were doing Advent with the names of Jesus. -[1522.02 --> 1532.02] Today, we are going to continue that story and talk about the wise men and children's worship time. -[1532.02 --> 1534.02] And what gifts did the wise men bring? -[1534.02 --> 1535.02] Yeah. -[1535.02 --> 1536.02] And frankincense. -[1536.02 --> 1537.02] Yeah. -[1537.02 --> 1538.02] And frankincense. -[1538.02 --> 1544.02] And why do you think the wise men brought these gifts to Jesus? -[1544.02 --> 1547.70] Yeah, it was a form of worship him. -[1547.78 --> 1549.24] So we're going to talk about worship. -[1549.80 --> 1553.64] And I have a little poem that will remind us with the story. -[1554.62 --> 1555.38] So do you want to come? -[1555.96 --> 1556.50] Yeah, come. -[1557.86 --> 1558.98] So he's going to be my helper. -[1558.98 --> 1560.66] She's going to hold up the sheets. -[1561.52 --> 1570.18] And first, what is this? -[1570.38 --> 1571.32] What is in the picture? -[1572.06 --> 1577.58] When we turn M different ways, what kind of things, -[1577.86 --> 1579.72] what letters or numbers does it become? -[1581.44 --> 1582.52] It becomes a W. -[1583.72 --> 1584.70] It becomes a W. -[1584.78 --> 1585.74] What else does it become? -[1585.74 --> 1587.66] It becomes an E. -[1587.94 --> 1588.38] Does anybody? -[1588.52 --> 1590.28] There's one more, and it's a number. -[1591.42 --> 1591.82] Levi? -[1592.54 --> 1592.94] Three. -[1593.22 --> 1596.28] So Zoe, in her M&Ms, I have a little M&M poem. -[1596.92 --> 1598.34] So she's going to put M&Ms down. -[1598.34 --> 1603.18] And then when I say the letters, you hold up the letters and show everybody in the church. -[1603.62 --> 1604.24] Right there. -[1604.72 --> 1607.66] So the first one, the M turns into an E. -[1609.08 --> 1610.96] Yeah, so you hold it this way. -[1612.12 --> 1613.82] The M turns into an E. -[1613.82 --> 1617.76] The E is for east, where the stars shone oh so bright. -[1617.76 --> 1619.94] Now turn to the next one. -[1621.12 --> 1626.70] The next way the M turns, it's the original M. -[1627.04 --> 1630.42] The M is for manger, where the baby Jesus slept that night. -[1630.42 --> 1638.78] And this one is the way the M turns, is the number three. -[1639.08 --> 1643.14] Three is for wise men, bearing gifts for him they came. -[1644.02 --> 1647.68] And the last one, as everybody said, it turns into a W. -[1648.68 --> 1650.00] W is for worship. -[1650.30 --> 1650.78] Hallelujah. -[1651.36 --> 1652.38] Praise to his name. -[1652.38 --> 1655.48] And so we're going to go back into children's worship time in a minute. -[1655.64 --> 1660.94] We're going to talk a little bit more how worship and how it relates to the three wise men -[1660.94 --> 1666.22] and how it relates to our hearts and how our whole story leads to Jesus. -[1666.72 --> 1668.34] Can everybody stand up, guys? -[1668.96 --> 1670.28] And we'll face the audience. -[1674.78 --> 1677.06] And we're going to go one, two, three. -[1677.06 --> 1679.34] The Lord is with you. -[1679.66 --> 1681.14] And also with you. -[1681.14 --> 1681.84] So we can see. -[1698.06 --> 1699.66] I walked up here too fast. -[1699.86 --> 1702.34] Now I've got to stand here awkwardly waiting for everybody to leave. -[1707.26 --> 1707.70] Okay. -[1708.24 --> 1709.02] I'm Joshua. -[1709.24 --> 1711.10] I'm the Young Adults Ministry Coordinator here. -[1712.14 --> 1714.46] Join me in the church family prayer. -[1719.36 --> 1722.06] Father in heaven, holy is your name. -[1723.06 --> 1729.96] I pray, Lord, that Chris, when he preaches his sermon, Lord, would be filled with your spirit -[1729.96 --> 1733.14] so that his words are not his own but yours. -[1733.14 --> 1741.52] And I pray, Lord, that we wouldn't hear his words but we would hear yours and that it would transform us. -[1742.36 --> 1746.34] That we would not just be hearers of the word but that we would be doers of the word. -[1746.34 --> 1752.38] Lord, that it would make us more like your son so that we can act more like him and be more like him. -[1754.72 --> 1756.50] I pray, Lord, for the Wagoner family. -[1756.50 --> 1763.66] That as Doug is now home, Elise's father, I pray that you would help him with the partial paralysis. -[1764.88 --> 1768.96] That you would help the family surround him and surround each other with love. -[1768.96 --> 1774.12] I pray, Lord, that your presence would be palpable. -[1774.12 --> 1779.48] That they would feel your comfort and your strength that only you can give. -[1779.48 --> 1786.14] I pray, Lord, that with a future oncology consult, that that would go well and that your will, Lord, would be done. -[1786.66 --> 1790.82] And that if healing is in that will, that it would be done. -[1793.48 --> 1797.60] I pray also, Lord, for Tanya, who also is dealing with cancer right now. -[1798.50 --> 1805.38] I pray that if she adjusts to life in the hospital, Lord, that I pray that she would also experience your peace and your comfort. -[1805.38 --> 1810.14] And that she would receive healing if, again, Lord, is your will. -[1811.18 --> 1814.40] And she'd be surrounded by strength and people, community, and family. -[1814.82 --> 1815.82] And by this church. -[1817.40 --> 1825.12] I pray, Lord, for all the college students and university students who are returning now to school shortly or already have. -[1826.46 --> 1833.42] I pray that you would help them study and focus what it is that they are doing there on their various fields of study. -[1833.42 --> 1840.96] And that as they live abroad, Lord, that they find their community and that they live with you and them well. -[1841.94 --> 1847.32] And that they would not be pulled astray by distractions and the enemy to do anything else. -[1847.86 --> 1853.90] But that you would help them do their work so that they could become more like you. -[1853.90 --> 1857.96] I pray, Lord, for those who are also traveling this winter break. -[1858.68 --> 1861.10] That they would travel with safety and ease. -[1862.02 --> 1863.50] And that no one would be hurt. -[1864.56 --> 1865.80] The roads can be icy. -[1866.62 --> 1867.90] Well, not here, but... -[1870.12 --> 1871.94] Yeah. -[1873.78 --> 1875.94] I pray, Lord, also for the church's ministries. -[1875.94 --> 1878.04] Children's worship time. -[1879.12 --> 1880.12] Cadets and gems. -[1880.48 --> 1881.58] Youth and young adults. -[1881.92 --> 1882.66] Seniors alive. -[1882.86 --> 1883.50] Coffee break. -[1883.72 --> 1884.28] And the others. -[1885.10 --> 1889.22] I pray, Lord, that the leaders would be filled with your spirit to lead. -[1889.68 --> 1892.08] And that those who are partaking would be filled by you. -[1893.96 --> 1896.22] I pray, Lord, that these ministries would be effective. -[1897.10 --> 1899.96] And that you would be the one that receives the glory of their work. -[1899.96 --> 1904.08] And that your church would be transformed to be more like Christ. -[1906.04 --> 1907.62] I also pray, Lord, for the world. -[1908.44 --> 1911.96] That with wars and nations and conflicts with... -[1913.58 --> 1916.78] Lord, that you would bring peace to these places. -[1917.60 --> 1921.56] And that you would work in these conflicts and in these wars as you have throughout all of history. -[1922.94 --> 1928.58] I pray, Lord, that as the church is found in those places, that the church would be equipped to help those people where they can. -[1930.62 --> 1932.78] We can't expect heaven now. -[1934.54 --> 1936.42] But we can expect your work to be done. -[1936.76 --> 1937.94] The transformation of souls. -[1939.28 --> 1942.12] And I pray that that would be what happens. -[1943.46 --> 1951.68] And I pray, Lord, that wherever the church is found, wherever the citizens of heaven are, Lord, that we would live like we are citizens of heaven already. -[1952.46 --> 1955.22] That we live like we are already in the kingdom of heaven. -[1955.22 --> 1960.80] And, Lord, I pray that we would not be... -[1960.80 --> 1973.80] That this church and the church of the world would not be pulled astray by the work of the devil or by any work of the world to drag us down and take our eyes off of you. -[1973.80 --> 1978.10] I pray, Lord, that we would not fear anything else but just you. -[1979.20 --> 1983.14] That that fear would bring love and compassion and obedience. -[1983.82 --> 1987.88] And I pray, Lord, that in all of this, that we would glorify you above all. -[1988.60 --> 1989.82] Because all of it is yours. -[1991.02 --> 1991.28] Amen. -[2003.80 --> 2004.34] Amen. -[2013.34 --> 2019.88] This morning, we're going to read together from Isaiah 61. -[2019.88 --> 2029.24] I'm going to read verse starting at verse 10 and through the first three verses of Isaiah 62 -[2029.24 --> 2036.06] but then throughout I'm going to refer to the whole of 61 and the whole of 62 and so -[2036.06 --> 2042.60] it will help you I think a lot to have a bible in your hands or in front of you on a device -[2042.60 --> 2049.54] whatever the case may be so that as we refer back you can see where I'm looking as well -[2049.54 --> 2056.36] let's read God's word together I'll start at verse 10 of Isaiah 61 -[2056.36 --> 2067.70] I delight greatly in the Lord my soul rejoices in my God for he has clothed me with garments of -[2067.70 --> 2074.48] salvation and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness as a bridegroom adorns his head -[2074.48 --> 2081.50] like a priest and as a bride adorns her adorns herself with her jewels for as the soil makes -[2081.50 --> 2088.16] the sprout come up and a garden causes seeds to grow so the sovereign Lord will make righteousness -[2088.16 --> 2100.78] and praise spring up before all nations for Zion's sake I will not keep silent for Jerusalem's sake I will -[2100.78 --> 2108.24] not remain quiet till her vindication shines out like the dawn her salvation like a blazing torch -[2108.24 --> 2116.08] the nations will see your vindication and all kings your glory you will be called by a new name that the -[2116.08 --> 2124.24] mouth of the Lord will bestow you will be a crown of splendor in the Lord's hand a royal diadem in the hand -[2124.24 --> 2127.62] of your God this is the word of the Lord -[2127.62 --> 2144.56] so my question for us this morning is what has changed right we have had Christmas day and we -[2144.56 --> 2157.20] basked together in the glory of Emmanuel of God with us and how are we supposed to respond to the God with us of Christmas -[2157.20 --> 2166.22] right Emmanuel means God with us and and surely that means something for more than just Christmas day -[2166.22 --> 2179.70] that's what I want us to look at this morning if in the season of Advent we kind of looked at who God is in the -[2179.70 --> 2189.40] servant who Jesus is coming as God as we looked at Emmanuel God with us today I want to shift and ask the -[2189.40 --> 2195.44] question what does that question what does that mean for who you are and so if we've been looking at God's -[2195.44 --> 2204.14] identity I want to see how that shapes our identity what I want to suggest to you this morning the the theme -[2204.14 --> 2214.10] for today the big idea falls under this heading the servant Messiah gives you a new name which comes with a new -[2214.10 --> 2221.36] purpose because he reveals the fullness of God and the fullness of man -[2221.36 --> 2230.90] now Emmanuel as we said God with us right reveals the fullness of God in some ways this is the first part -[2230.90 --> 2239.94] of Colossians 2 verse 9 which says in Christ all the fullness of the deity lives in bodily form -[2239.94 --> 2249.84] and Jesus the Lord of us the Lord of us the Lord of our salvation reveals the fullness of what it means to be -[2249.84 --> 2258.84] human many ways this is the second part of of Colossians 2 verse 9 which says in Christ you have been brought -[2258.84 --> 2268.10] to fullness and so my contention for you this morning is that Jesus as the God man reveals the fullness of God -[2268.10 --> 2281.20] and the fullness of man that Jesus shows us real humanity and all of this is mapped out I think in Isaiah 61 and 62 -[2281.20 --> 2289.40] now to get there we have to answer a couple questions and the first question that we'll wrestle with is is who is -[2289.40 --> 2300.16] speaking in this text the first challenge we have is is in digging into this text is who is the voice that we are listening to -[2300.16 --> 2307.66] right to understand what's being said we need to figure out who's saying it and so with your Bibles open -[2307.66 --> 2317.18] starting at verse 1 of 61 follow the voice of the speaker and to do this look at the use of pronouns -[2317.18 --> 2323.18] in this text that's how we're going to follow the voice and again if your Bibles are open this will -[2323.18 --> 2329.76] make more sense to you as we see it together and so listen to these words from the first three verses -[2329.76 --> 2331.06] of chapter 61. -[2333.12 --> 2340.06] The spirit of the sovereign Lord is on me because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor -[2340.06 --> 2346.48] he sent me to bind up the brokenhearted to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for -[2346.48 --> 2352.62] the prisoners to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor and the day of vengeance of our God to comfort -[2352.62 --> 2359.84] all who mourn and provide for those who grieve in Zion to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of -[2359.84 --> 2365.46] ashes the oil of joy instead of mourning and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair -[2365.46 --> 2374.48] they will be called oaks of righteousness a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor -[2374.48 --> 2375.04] splendor. -[2377.28 --> 2386.12] What we see in Isaiah 61 is the coming together of two different voices that we've already heard -[2386.12 --> 2388.64] in this Advent and Christmas season. -[2389.90 --> 2394.08] One of the voices that we've heard starts in chapter 40. -[2394.62 --> 2398.10] Kevin pointed this out to us when he preached a few weeks ago. -[2398.30 --> 2399.92] It's the voice of the servant. -[2399.92 --> 2406.98] Right in Isaiah 42 we can read about the servant the suffering servant in 49 and 50 and 52 and 53. -[2406.98 --> 2414.28] Right and the servant is identified as the one on whom the spirit of God rests. -[2415.36 --> 2418.26] Right Josh preached on this for us. -[2418.80 --> 2426.94] This is the voice of the servant who will release captives in chapter 49 who will bring righteousness to the people in chapter 53. -[2426.94 --> 2432.96] Each aspect of what the servant does in our text in chapter 61. -[2433.60 --> 2439.50] Right the spirit of the sovereign Lord is on me to proclaim freedom for captives and release the prisoners from darkness. -[2440.04 --> 2443.20] They the people of Zion will be called oaks of righteousness. -[2443.80 --> 2447.58] Each thing the servant says is something the servant has already said. -[2447.66 --> 2450.24] This is the voice of the servant. -[2450.24 --> 2457.42] And then the second voice that we've been hearing from in Isaiah is the anointed one. -[2457.58 --> 2459.10] The Messiah the king. -[2459.84 --> 2467.44] Right in chapter 9 all the way back at the beginning of our Advent season we read about a son who will put the government on his shoulders. -[2467.44 --> 2470.72] Who will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom forever. -[2470.72 --> 2478.18] And then in chapter 11 of Isaiah the son who is king is shown to be the Messiah the anointed one. -[2478.60 --> 2482.72] Right the spirit of the Lord will rest on him who is a branch from Jesse's stem. -[2483.76 --> 2489.92] His instrument will be we read the rod of his mouth which is something we saw to be the word of the Lord. -[2489.92 --> 2501.02] And notice then in Isaiah 61 this voice comes to preach good news to proclaim freedom and to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor. -[2502.16 --> 2506.38] In Isaiah 11 righteousness will be his belt and with righteousness he will judge. -[2506.78 --> 2513.22] And the Messiah comes to establish righteousness which again is what this person here is doing. -[2513.98 --> 2518.82] Right because of his work and his coming they will be called oaks of righteousness. -[2518.82 --> 2526.24] The Messiah of chapter 11 and his coming results in the glorious exaltation of God. -[2526.36 --> 2528.44] The zeal of the Lord will accomplish this. -[2528.90 --> 2533.94] And in chapter 61 this will be a display of his splendor. -[2535.06 --> 2540.24] And so throughout we've heard these two voices the suffering servant and the Messiah king. -[2540.24 --> 2548.18] And in the first three verses of chapter 61 these two voices come together. -[2548.18 --> 2550.82] In one person. -[2552.02 --> 2558.44] And we've heard about the suffering servant and the Messiah king and all that builds and builds on itself. -[2558.44 --> 2563.62] Coming together in one voice one person the servant Messiah. -[2564.66 --> 2569.18] And again Messiah means God's anointed means king ruler over all. -[2569.18 --> 2574.30] And what we're reading and learning is that he would be the servant of all. -[2575.24 --> 2582.06] Right the suffering servant the one who comes not to be served but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many. -[2582.06 --> 2587.80] Would be God's anointed who comes to destroy God's enemies with the word of his mouth. -[2588.70 --> 2592.48] One person suffering servant and anointed Messiah. -[2592.72 --> 2595.14] One person meekness and majesty. -[2595.38 --> 2598.68] One person the servant Messiah. -[2598.68 --> 2600.50] One person the Lord that he would be the servant of all. -[2600.50 --> 2612.82] And so it doesn't surprise us as readers of the New Testament that when Jesus comes on the scene grown as an adult and begins his preaching ministry. -[2612.82 --> 2617.18] He does so by reading from Isaiah 61. -[2617.18 --> 2622.24] Right the suffering servant is the anointed Messiah. -[2622.24 --> 2627.84] and in Luke 4 you can read about Jesus in the synagogue taking the scroll and reading this -[2627.84 --> 2635.64] text from Isaiah 61 and then saying today in your hearing this scripture is fulfilled. -[2636.60 --> 2644.36] Jesus is the servant Messiah. Jesus is God's anointed. Jesus is the ruler who came to serve -[2644.36 --> 2651.28] and not be served. Jesus is the one who gave his life as a ransom for many. Jesus is the one -[2651.28 --> 2658.98] who's worshiped as king by wise men who came from the east. Jesus is the one who would live life in -[2658.98 --> 2665.30] your place providing the righteousness that you need and he would die death in your place taking -[2665.30 --> 2670.88] the punishment that we all deserve and doing it all for whoever will believe and put their trust -[2670.88 --> 2680.78] and their faith in him. Jesus is the servant Messiah whose voice we hear in chapter 61. -[2681.28 --> 2687.82] And then as we keep reading through Isaiah verses 4 through 7 really starting in verse 3 but -[2687.82 --> 2697.14] verses 4 through 7 make up the content of what he comes to preach. Remember we're following the voice -[2697.14 --> 2702.04] and we're doing that by looking at the pronouns for help and so if you look at the pronouns there -[2702.04 --> 2708.86] these verses become the substance of what the servant Messiah is preaching what he will declare. -[2708.86 --> 2716.62] Right this will be a new reality for those who come under his grace and mercy. This is the good news. -[2716.72 --> 2725.18] This is the gospel. Right he will bestow on them a crown of beauty. They will be oaks of righteousness -[2725.18 --> 2731.68] for the display of the Lord's splendor. That is our our chief end the purpose for which we are created -[2731.68 --> 2741.22] and recreated in grace is to glorify God and enjoy him forever. Right they will rebuild and renew a huge hope -[2741.22 --> 2747.24] for those who are living in exile who are living apart from their homes. Right the gospel creates a community -[2747.24 --> 2755.30] that builds and that renews those around it. Translate that into today and think of the communities who have built -[2755.30 --> 2761.66] Christian schools and Christian universities who have built Christian churches and cultural centers. -[2762.16 --> 2767.94] Think of people who have started a business as a disciple of Jesus and are trying to run them -[2767.94 --> 2770.50] as Christian bosses in the world today. -[2772.88 --> 2775.10] And in fact it goes even deeper. -[2775.10 --> 2782.40] In verse 6 it's made more personal because the pronouns shift from they to you. -[2782.40 --> 2791.36] You will be called priests of the Lord. You will be named ministers of our God. Instead of shame you will -[2791.36 --> 2797.38] receive a double portion. Instead of disgrace you will rejoice in your inheritance. You will inherit a -[2797.38 --> 2805.22] double portion and everlasting joy will be yours. Right in this chapter you have the coming together of two -[2805.22 --> 2812.38] voices in Isaiah the Messiah King and the suffering servant into one person and he speaks -[2812.38 --> 2819.34] he preaches he proclaims to his affected his people made by his word. -[2821.52 --> 2830.74] And then in verse 8 and maybe verse 9 there's an injection of God's voice. Right for I the Lord -[2830.74 --> 2836.50] in my faithfulness I will reward my people. I will make an everlasting covenant with them. -[2836.50 --> 2844.66] Right this is a stamp of approval a confirmation of promise. This is God saying what the servant has said is my word. -[2845.46 --> 2852.24] This is an underlining. It's a statement of promise and assurance that this indeed will be the case. -[2853.58 --> 2857.64] And so pull it all together. The servant Messiah's word is God's word. -[2857.64 --> 2866.62] He speaks as one with authority. He has the words of eternal life. The servant Messiah is the word of God. -[2868.28 --> 2869.78] And because of that -[2869.78 --> 2871.54] in verse 10 -[2871.54 --> 2873.28] we hear a new voice. -[2873.78 --> 2878.80] I delight greatly in the Lord. My soul rejoices -[2878.80 --> 2881.22] in my God. -[2881.22 --> 2884.18] So three voices. -[2885.30 --> 2890.52] First the two voices of Isaiah coming together as one. The suffering servant and the Messiah King seen -[2890.52 --> 2894.50] as one man. And then the content of what he speaks and promises. -[2895.04 --> 2897.92] The effect of him making for himself a people. -[2898.48 --> 2902.78] Followed by the voice of God to confirm and ensure gospel truth. -[2902.78 --> 2904.54] And now a third voice. -[2904.92 --> 2906.74] Right? I delight. My soul. -[2906.92 --> 2909.30] Clothed me with garments of salvation. -[2909.50 --> 2911.38] Arrayed me in robes of righteousness. -[2911.80 --> 2913.26] And not just any righteousness. Right? -[2913.38 --> 2915.58] In the text it says his righteousness. -[2917.38 --> 2918.68] Right? Verse 10 -[2918.68 --> 2920.92] is the fulfillment of verse 3. -[2921.88 --> 2922.96] It's the effect -[2922.96 --> 2924.42] of the message he proclaimed. -[2924.82 --> 2926.36] Right? Joy instead of mourning. -[2926.56 --> 2929.06] Praise instead of despair. Oaks of righteousness -[2929.06 --> 2930.66] displaying his splendor. -[2930.66 --> 2932.42] That is for his glory. -[2932.78 --> 2936.64] And so what is your proper response -[2936.64 --> 2938.24] to the servant Messiah -[2938.24 --> 2939.66] working in your life? -[2940.18 --> 2942.26] What is your new identity? -[2943.28 --> 2945.26] What is your response to the gospel -[2945.26 --> 2947.52] that he accomplishes and he proclaims? -[2948.22 --> 2949.54] It's rejoicing. -[2950.22 --> 2951.48] It's praising. -[2952.42 --> 2953.76] Right? Your response is -[2953.76 --> 2954.58] worship. -[2955.50 --> 2956.26] And -[2956.26 --> 2957.94] your response -[2957.94 --> 2960.08] is righteousness. -[2962.08 --> 2962.76] Righteousness. -[2962.78 --> 2965.92] You are clothed in his righteousness. -[2965.92 --> 2967.36] And you've heard me say this before. -[2967.82 --> 2969.76] Righteousness is an economic term -[2969.76 --> 2971.50] before it's a theological one. -[2972.68 --> 2974.28] And so this means a couple things for us. -[2975.02 --> 2976.68] Let's put some meat on these bones -[2976.68 --> 2977.86] of the word righteousness. -[2978.44 --> 2980.38] Clothed in righteousness means -[2980.38 --> 2982.42] that you don't have to worry -[2982.42 --> 2984.22] when yours falls short. -[2985.66 --> 2986.08] Right? -[2986.08 --> 2987.66] It means when the devil -[2987.66 --> 2989.10] or when social media -[2989.10 --> 2990.36] and maybe those two are the same -[2990.36 --> 2991.54] when the devil -[2991.54 --> 2992.36] or social media -[2992.36 --> 2993.62] whispers in your ear -[2993.62 --> 2994.82] you're not good enough -[2994.82 --> 2996.40] you can say -[2996.40 --> 2997.54] get behind me Satan -[2997.54 --> 2999.20] because what matters -[2999.20 --> 3000.78] is the righteousness of Christ -[3000.78 --> 3001.74] given to me. -[3002.74 --> 3003.72] It means that -[3003.72 --> 3005.00] even though there's nothing -[3005.00 --> 3005.74] you can do -[3005.74 --> 3007.10] to earn your salvation -[3007.10 --> 3008.54] he's done everything -[3008.54 --> 3010.26] and he gives it to you freely -[3010.26 --> 3011.28] by his grace. -[3011.28 --> 3011.88] Grace. -[3011.88 --> 3013.34] This clothing yourself -[3013.34 --> 3014.74] being clothed -[3014.74 --> 3015.70] in the righteousness -[3015.70 --> 3017.18] of the servant Messiah -[3017.18 --> 3018.80] means there is nothing -[3018.80 --> 3020.74] nothing that can separate you -[3020.74 --> 3021.72] from the love of God -[3021.72 --> 3022.42] that is available -[3022.42 --> 3024.10] in Christ Jesus our Lord. -[3024.26 --> 3025.38] It means that the love -[3025.38 --> 3027.00] that the Father has for the Son -[3027.00 --> 3028.24] is the same love -[3028.24 --> 3029.30] that he has for you. -[3030.10 --> 3031.12] You've probably heard that before. -[3032.14 --> 3033.72] Because when he looks at you -[3033.72 --> 3036.16] he sees Christ. -[3036.16 --> 3036.26] Christ. -[3039.20 --> 3040.38] And righteousness -[3040.38 --> 3042.30] is a term -[3042.30 --> 3044.26] is a reality with legs. -[3044.90 --> 3045.00] Right? -[3045.12 --> 3046.42] Righteousness walks. -[3047.18 --> 3049.34] Righteousness is an economic term -[3049.34 --> 3051.54] even as it's a theological term. -[3051.86 --> 3053.28] And so putting on Christ -[3053.28 --> 3055.04] means walking with him -[3055.04 --> 3056.54] living like him. -[3056.60 --> 3058.34] It means obeying God's design -[3058.34 --> 3059.94] not because you have to -[3059.94 --> 3062.26] but because you believe it's good. -[3063.66 --> 3063.76] Right? -[3063.76 --> 3065.82] God's righteous plan for your life -[3065.82 --> 3068.22] is his plan for your flourishing. -[3069.14 --> 3070.14] The will of God -[3070.14 --> 3071.08] his moral will -[3071.08 --> 3072.04] his decretive will -[3072.04 --> 3073.04] his sovereign will -[3073.04 --> 3074.88] are good for you. -[3076.66 --> 3078.80] Far from robbing you of joy -[3078.80 --> 3080.40] when Jesus says -[3080.40 --> 3081.20] if you love me -[3081.20 --> 3082.48] you will keep my commandments -[3082.48 --> 3084.44] he's offering you a glimpse -[3084.44 --> 3086.62] of what your best life now looks like. -[3087.90 --> 3088.02] Right? -[3088.10 --> 3088.66] Obedience. -[3089.54 --> 3091.48] Even obedience unto death. -[3092.22 --> 3092.82] Right? -[3092.82 --> 3094.42] Joining Christ in his suffering -[3094.42 --> 3095.86] means joining him -[3095.86 --> 3096.64] in his resurrection. -[3097.20 --> 3098.76] Being obedient to his will -[3098.76 --> 3101.16] is actually the way of joy. -[3103.16 --> 3103.70] Right? -[3103.72 --> 3105.24] If you listen to the voice -[3105.24 --> 3107.36] of our culture and world -[3107.36 --> 3108.76] and increasingly -[3108.76 --> 3109.88] the same voice -[3109.88 --> 3111.24] is heard everywhere. -[3112.14 --> 3112.32] Right? -[3112.36 --> 3113.54] You might think that -[3113.54 --> 3115.42] sex apart from being married -[3115.42 --> 3116.16] is good. -[3117.46 --> 3118.54] What I want you to hear -[3118.54 --> 3120.48] is that obedience to Jesus -[3120.48 --> 3121.34] is better. -[3122.62 --> 3123.06] Right? -[3123.10 --> 3123.78] You might think that -[3123.78 --> 3125.20] a little recreational drug use -[3125.20 --> 3125.84] is good -[3125.84 --> 3128.36] but obedience to Jesus -[3128.36 --> 3129.20] is better. -[3130.32 --> 3131.14] You might sit here -[3131.14 --> 3132.12] rationalizing -[3132.12 --> 3133.66] your pornography use -[3133.66 --> 3134.18] saying look -[3134.18 --> 3135.00] no one's getting hurt -[3135.00 --> 3136.20] but walking in the way -[3136.20 --> 3136.72] of Jesus -[3136.72 --> 3137.90] and not even looking -[3137.90 --> 3139.20] at a person lustfully -[3139.20 --> 3140.20] is true life -[3140.20 --> 3141.48] is full humanity. -[3143.14 --> 3144.54] Now you might hear that -[3144.54 --> 3145.28] and you might think -[3145.28 --> 3146.22] but pastor -[3146.22 --> 3147.14] that's impossible. -[3147.14 --> 3149.20] to which I say -[3149.20 --> 3150.70] refer back to number one. -[3152.26 --> 3152.38] Right? -[3152.44 --> 3153.22] Remember that's why -[3153.22 --> 3154.74] theological and economic -[3154.74 --> 3155.94] understandings of righteousness -[3155.94 --> 3157.14] have to come together. -[3158.44 --> 3159.68] Apart from him -[3159.68 --> 3160.74] and his righteousness -[3160.74 --> 3161.76] it is impossible. -[3162.70 --> 3163.86] But thanks be to God -[3163.86 --> 3165.18] he has given us the victory -[3165.18 --> 3166.26] he has made us new -[3166.26 --> 3168.38] he has transformed you -[3168.38 --> 3170.16] and with that transformation -[3170.16 --> 3172.00] with his setting you apart -[3172.00 --> 3173.50] as a holy nation -[3173.50 --> 3174.74] a royal priesthood -[3174.74 --> 3176.20] a people belonging to God -[3176.20 --> 3177.70] he has made you -[3177.70 --> 3179.26] able to live for him -[3179.26 --> 3182.22] because you love him -[3182.22 --> 3184.12] and are loved by him. -[3184.24 --> 3186.00] That is you live your life -[3186.00 --> 3187.60] in the power of the spirit. -[3187.94 --> 3188.94] You live your life -[3188.94 --> 3191.02] in your new creation self -[3191.02 --> 3192.84] your born again identity. -[3193.10 --> 3195.30] You live with a new name. -[3197.08 --> 3197.44] And look -[3197.44 --> 3200.42] if there's a problem -[3200.42 --> 3201.92] in the Christian church -[3201.92 --> 3203.54] in the west today -[3203.54 --> 3205.64] it's probably this. -[3206.20 --> 3208.62] Christians come to church -[3208.62 --> 3209.16] on Sunday -[3209.16 --> 3210.46] professing the name of Jesus -[3210.46 --> 3211.74] singing praises to God -[3211.74 --> 3212.56] and then -[3212.56 --> 3213.74] we walk out the door -[3213.74 --> 3215.08] and we live like God -[3215.08 --> 3215.74] isn't real. -[3216.80 --> 3218.10] Like Jesus doesn't have -[3218.10 --> 3219.28] authority in my life -[3219.28 --> 3220.36] like he isn't the king -[3220.36 --> 3221.04] of the universe. -[3222.06 --> 3223.12] We live like God -[3223.12 --> 3223.88] isn't sovereign -[3223.88 --> 3224.82] or all the earth. -[3225.14 --> 3226.22] We live like we haven't -[3226.22 --> 3227.00] been transformed -[3227.00 --> 3228.38] like Jesus hasn't overcome -[3228.38 --> 3229.54] like we don't have -[3229.54 --> 3230.58] the power of God -[3230.58 --> 3231.52] in us. -[3232.58 --> 3232.62] Right? -[3232.76 --> 3233.54] We Christians -[3233.54 --> 3234.52] look and live -[3234.52 --> 3235.14] no different -[3235.14 --> 3235.62] than the rest -[3235.62 --> 3236.12] of the world -[3236.12 --> 3237.30] who doesn't know God -[3237.30 --> 3238.36] and we've neutered -[3238.36 --> 3238.94] his power -[3238.94 --> 3239.66] in our lives. -[3241.06 --> 3242.34] But the gospel says -[3242.34 --> 3243.88] you are no longer slaves. -[3244.36 --> 3245.62] You are a child of God. -[3246.24 --> 3247.14] You are his son. -[3248.26 --> 3248.36] Right? -[3248.40 --> 3248.90] Ask God -[3248.90 --> 3249.40] today -[3249.40 --> 3249.96] now -[3249.96 --> 3250.72] to transform -[3250.72 --> 3251.50] your life -[3251.50 --> 3252.38] from the inside -[3252.38 --> 3253.22] out. -[3253.48 --> 3253.70] Right? -[3253.82 --> 3254.82] That's the direction -[3254.82 --> 3255.40] of righteousness -[3255.40 --> 3256.16] by the way. -[3256.48 --> 3256.62] Right? -[3256.70 --> 3257.58] His righteousness -[3257.58 --> 3258.80] given over to you -[3258.80 --> 3259.86] transforming you -[3259.86 --> 3260.88] turning your heart -[3260.88 --> 3261.38] of stone -[3261.38 --> 3262.12] into a heart -[3262.12 --> 3262.58] of flesh -[3262.58 --> 3264.02] that's inside work -[3264.02 --> 3264.82] and then -[3264.82 --> 3265.38] and then -[3265.38 --> 3265.84] what happens -[3265.84 --> 3266.78] on the inside -[3266.78 --> 3267.90] works its way -[3267.90 --> 3268.64] outside -[3268.64 --> 3269.88] and so ask God -[3269.88 --> 3271.26] to transform your life -[3271.26 --> 3271.84] and then -[3271.84 --> 3273.10] go from this place -[3273.10 --> 3274.36] living your life -[3274.36 --> 3275.60] with discipline -[3275.60 --> 3276.98] as one transformed. -[3277.54 --> 3278.90] Work out your salvation -[3278.90 --> 3280.50] as God's righteousness -[3280.50 --> 3281.96] works out -[3281.96 --> 3283.22] of you. -[3284.38 --> 3285.38] Don't settle -[3285.38 --> 3286.32] for slavery. -[3287.56 --> 3289.70] Pursue your new humanity -[3289.70 --> 3290.52] as children -[3290.52 --> 3291.40] of God. -[3291.56 --> 3292.44] Pursue life -[3292.44 --> 3294.40] as his son. -[3298.32 --> 3299.20] And then -[3299.20 --> 3303.94] take this message -[3303.94 --> 3304.40] with you. -[3305.70 --> 3307.00] For Zion's sake -[3307.00 --> 3308.52] I will not keep silent. -[3308.66 --> 3309.76] We're in chapter 62. -[3310.42 --> 3311.80] For Jerusalem's sake -[3311.80 --> 3312.70] I will not remain -[3312.70 --> 3313.92] quiet -[3313.92 --> 3315.42] till her vindication -[3315.42 --> 3316.20] shines out -[3316.20 --> 3316.80] like the dawn -[3316.80 --> 3317.74] her salvation -[3317.74 --> 3318.96] like a blazing torch -[3318.96 --> 3319.80] the nations -[3319.80 --> 3320.40] will see -[3320.40 --> 3321.18] your vindication -[3321.18 --> 3321.94] and all kings -[3321.94 --> 3322.44] your glory -[3322.44 --> 3323.42] and you will be -[3323.42 --> 3324.74] called by a new name -[3324.74 --> 3325.40] that the mouth -[3325.40 --> 3326.10] of the Lord -[3326.10 --> 3327.06] will bestow. -[3327.22 --> 3327.88] You will be -[3327.88 --> 3328.54] a crown -[3328.54 --> 3329.38] of splendor -[3329.38 --> 3330.30] in the Lord's hand -[3330.30 --> 3331.68] a royal diadem -[3331.68 --> 3332.74] in the hand -[3332.74 --> 3333.82] of your God. -[3335.48 --> 3336.50] And in chapter 61 -[3336.50 --> 3337.62] the servant Messiah -[3337.62 --> 3338.54] transforms -[3338.54 --> 3339.60] by his gospel -[3339.60 --> 3340.50] and now -[3340.50 --> 3341.34] those who are -[3341.34 --> 3342.04] transformed -[3342.04 --> 3343.32] by the gospel -[3343.32 --> 3344.74] proclaim the same -[3344.74 --> 3345.50] message. -[3345.70 --> 3346.72] For Zion's sake -[3346.72 --> 3347.62] I will not keep -[3347.62 --> 3348.04] silent. -[3348.04 --> 3349.12] I will not remain -[3349.12 --> 3349.56] quiet. -[3350.12 --> 3350.68] The nations -[3350.68 --> 3351.50] will see -[3351.50 --> 3352.26] what the servant -[3352.26 --> 3353.26] Messiah has done -[3353.26 --> 3354.04] and kings -[3354.04 --> 3354.86] will hear -[3354.86 --> 3355.76] of his glory -[3355.76 --> 3357.18] because the servant -[3357.18 --> 3358.32] Messiah will -[3358.32 --> 3359.10] proclaim it -[3359.10 --> 3360.40] and he proclaims -[3360.40 --> 3361.16] it through a -[3361.16 --> 3362.52] people who go -[3362.52 --> 3363.56] out to declare -[3363.56 --> 3364.52] the praises of him -[3364.52 --> 3365.16] who has called you -[3365.16 --> 3365.68] out of darkness -[3365.68 --> 3366.88] into his wonderful -[3366.88 --> 3367.20] light. -[3368.44 --> 3369.68] In verse 62 -[3369.68 --> 3371.00] we switch back -[3371.00 --> 3371.64] to the voice -[3371.64 --> 3372.38] of the servant -[3372.38 --> 3373.86] Messiah who says -[3373.86 --> 3374.88] that he will not -[3374.88 --> 3376.06] keep silent -[3376.06 --> 3377.28] and so we -[3377.28 --> 3378.20] will not keep -[3378.20 --> 3378.96] silent. -[3379.42 --> 3380.16] We don't go out -[3380.16 --> 3380.68] and preach -[3380.68 --> 3381.48] because he told -[3381.48 --> 3381.88] us to -[3381.88 --> 3382.56] we preach -[3382.56 --> 3383.40] because he is -[3383.40 --> 3384.18] preaching through -[3384.18 --> 3384.72] us. -[3385.66 --> 3386.34] The word of the -[3386.34 --> 3386.96] Lord that you -[3386.96 --> 3387.46] declare -[3387.46 --> 3388.16] the praises -[3388.16 --> 3389.08] that you declare -[3389.08 --> 3390.00] the gospel -[3390.00 --> 3391.16] that you tell -[3391.16 --> 3391.94] is Jesus -[3391.94 --> 3392.74] the servant -[3392.74 --> 3393.26] Messiah -[3393.26 --> 3394.78] declaring in you -[3394.78 --> 3395.92] and through you -[3395.92 --> 3396.88] to the world. -[3398.44 --> 3399.48] There's confirmation -[3399.48 --> 3400.22] of this. -[3401.68 --> 3403.08] You will be called -[3403.08 --> 3404.48] by a new name -[3404.48 --> 3405.30] that the mouth -[3405.30 --> 3405.94] of the Lord -[3405.94 --> 3406.60] will bestow. -[3407.60 --> 3408.80] You will be a crown -[3408.80 --> 3409.60] of splendor -[3409.60 --> 3410.62] in the Lord's hand. -[3411.60 --> 3412.24] Note that, right? -[3412.36 --> 3413.06] A new name -[3413.06 --> 3414.52] and a crown. -[3416.32 --> 3416.80] Now to see -[3416.80 --> 3418.18] the culmination -[3418.18 --> 3418.70] of this -[3418.70 --> 3419.74] I want to jump -[3419.74 --> 3420.32] for a second -[3420.32 --> 3421.60] to Revelation 3. -[3422.78 --> 3424.04] In Revelation 3 -[3424.04 --> 3425.36] we read -[3425.36 --> 3426.42] at the beginning -[3426.42 --> 3427.10] of Revelation -[3427.10 --> 3428.62] John records -[3428.62 --> 3429.36] messages -[3429.36 --> 3430.18] or sermons -[3430.18 --> 3430.82] from Jesus -[3430.82 --> 3431.62] to the churches -[3431.62 --> 3432.62] and Jesus -[3432.62 --> 3433.68] refers to the -[3433.68 --> 3434.26] people of -[3434.26 --> 3434.84] these seven -[3434.84 --> 3435.26] churches -[3435.26 --> 3437.18] as those -[3437.18 --> 3437.76] who endure -[3437.76 --> 3438.22] right? -[3438.30 --> 3438.84] As the one -[3438.84 --> 3439.84] who is victorious -[3439.84 --> 3441.14] or a previous -[3441.14 --> 3441.58] translation -[3441.58 --> 3442.24] those who have -[3442.24 --> 3442.82] overcome -[3442.82 --> 3443.94] to the one -[3443.94 --> 3444.66] who overcomes -[3444.66 --> 3446.00] and to the church -[3446.00 --> 3446.82] in Philadelphia -[3446.82 --> 3447.84] Jesus says -[3447.84 --> 3448.48] and remember -[3448.48 --> 3449.84] those words -[3449.84 --> 3451.20] from Isaiah 62 -[3451.20 --> 3451.96] that language -[3451.96 --> 3452.56] he says -[3452.56 --> 3454.26] hold on -[3454.26 --> 3454.82] to what you -[3454.82 --> 3455.30] have -[3455.30 --> 3456.44] so that no -[3456.44 --> 3457.04] one will -[3457.04 --> 3457.86] take your -[3457.86 --> 3459.10] crown. -[3459.10 --> 3460.88] the one -[3460.88 --> 3461.28] who is -[3461.28 --> 3461.90] victorious -[3461.90 --> 3462.48] I will -[3462.48 --> 3462.96] make a -[3462.96 --> 3463.22] pillar -[3463.22 --> 3463.62] in the -[3463.62 --> 3463.90] temple -[3463.90 --> 3464.30] of my -[3464.30 --> 3464.58] God -[3464.58 --> 3465.14] never -[3465.14 --> 3465.58] again -[3465.58 --> 3465.80] will -[3465.80 --> 3465.94] they -[3465.94 --> 3466.28] leave it -[3466.28 --> 3467.00] I will -[3467.00 --> 3467.36] write -[3467.36 --> 3468.22] my name -[3468.22 --> 3468.84] I will -[3468.84 --> 3469.20] write on -[3469.20 --> 3469.42] him -[3469.42 --> 3470.00] the name -[3470.00 --> 3470.40] of my -[3470.40 --> 3470.74] God -[3470.74 --> 3471.08] and the -[3471.08 --> 3471.42] name -[3471.42 --> 3471.80] of the -[3471.80 --> 3472.04] city -[3472.04 --> 3472.42] of my -[3472.42 --> 3472.70] God -[3472.70 --> 3473.12] the new -[3473.12 --> 3473.52] Jerusalem -[3473.52 --> 3473.88] which is -[3473.88 --> 3474.36] coming down -[3474.36 --> 3474.62] out of -[3474.62 --> 3474.80] heaven -[3474.80 --> 3475.38] from my -[3475.38 --> 3475.62] God -[3475.62 --> 3476.54] and I -[3476.54 --> 3476.74] will -[3476.74 --> 3477.08] write -[3477.08 --> 3477.38] on -[3477.38 --> 3477.90] them -[3477.90 --> 3478.60] my -[3478.60 --> 3479.48] new -[3479.48 --> 3480.56] name -[3480.56 --> 3482.16] whoever -[3482.16 --> 3482.50] has -[3482.50 --> 3483.00] ears -[3483.00 --> 3483.42] let them -[3483.42 --> 3483.76] hear -[3483.76 --> 3484.20] what the -[3484.20 --> 3484.48] spirit -[3484.48 --> 3485.08] says -[3485.08 --> 3486.02] to the -[3486.02 --> 3486.52] churches -[3486.52 --> 3488.78] you see -[3488.78 --> 3488.98] what's -[3488.98 --> 3489.46] going on -[3489.46 --> 3490.00] here -[3490.00 --> 3491.34] right -[3491.34 --> 3491.64] you have -[3491.64 --> 3492.22] a crown -[3492.22 --> 3493.34] a crown -[3493.34 --> 3493.94] of beauty -[3493.94 --> 3494.60] and of -[3494.60 --> 3495.04] glory -[3495.04 --> 3495.52] God's -[3495.52 --> 3495.84] own -[3495.84 --> 3496.30] glory -[3496.30 --> 3496.96] and the -[3496.96 --> 3497.22] beauty -[3497.22 --> 3497.56] of his -[3497.56 --> 3497.90] son -[3497.90 --> 3498.50] Jesus -[3498.50 --> 3498.90] our -[3498.90 --> 3499.36] Messiah -[3499.36 --> 3499.76] servant -[3499.76 --> 3500.48] you have -[3500.48 --> 3500.92] a crown -[3500.92 --> 3501.42] because -[3501.42 --> 3502.24] he has -[3502.24 --> 3502.86] a crown -[3502.86 --> 3503.60] and you've -[3503.60 --> 3504.36] been clothed -[3504.36 --> 3504.66] with -[3504.66 --> 3505.38] Christ -[3505.38 --> 3505.82] right -[3505.82 --> 3506.00] you're -[3506.00 --> 3506.24] wearing -[3506.24 --> 3506.62] Christ -[3506.62 --> 3506.98] like a -[3506.98 --> 3507.24] garment -[3507.24 --> 3507.52] and that -[3507.52 --> 3507.94] includes -[3507.94 --> 3508.16] his -[3508.16 --> 3508.38] crown -[3508.38 --> 3508.80] you've -[3508.80 --> 3509.00] put -[3509.00 --> 3509.52] on -[3509.52 --> 3510.18] Christ -[3510.18 --> 3510.76] and now -[3510.76 --> 3511.74] you display -[3511.74 --> 3512.50] his -[3512.50 --> 3513.22] glory -[3513.22 --> 3513.68] fully -[3513.68 --> 3514.14] human -[3514.14 --> 3514.52] fully -[3514.52 --> 3515.00] alive -[3515.00 --> 3515.76] in obedience -[3515.76 --> 3516.92] to him -[3516.92 --> 3517.54] his -[3517.54 --> 3518.24] righteousness -[3518.24 --> 3519.02] is your -[3519.02 --> 3519.52] crown -[3519.52 --> 3520.20] and his -[3520.20 --> 3520.76] righteousness -[3520.76 --> 3521.46] lived in -[3521.46 --> 3521.94] your life -[3521.94 --> 3522.62] is a royal -[3522.62 --> 3523.40] diadem -[3523.40 --> 3523.90] in the -[3523.90 --> 3524.40] hand of -[3524.40 --> 3524.84] your God -[3524.84 --> 3525.54] Jesus -[3525.54 --> 3526.30] reveals -[3526.30 --> 3526.90] the fullness -[3526.90 --> 3527.58] of God -[3527.58 --> 3528.60] and the -[3528.60 --> 3528.96] fullness -[3528.96 --> 3530.24] of man -[3530.24 --> 3532.94] but what else -[3532.94 --> 3533.18] does the -[3533.18 --> 3533.38] servant -[3533.38 --> 3533.70] Messiah -[3533.70 --> 3534.04] say -[3534.04 --> 3535.74] he says -[3535.74 --> 3536.10] you will -[3536.10 --> 3536.64] be called -[3536.64 --> 3537.58] by a new -[3537.58 --> 3538.06] name that -[3538.06 --> 3538.48] the mouth -[3538.48 --> 3538.82] of the -[3538.82 --> 3539.10] Lord -[3539.10 --> 3540.26] will bestow -[3540.26 --> 3542.18] the mouth -[3542.18 --> 3542.46] of the -[3542.46 --> 3542.70] Lord -[3542.70 --> 3544.38] the word -[3544.38 --> 3545.24] of the -[3545.24 --> 3545.50] Lord -[3545.50 --> 3546.66] the eternal -[3546.66 --> 3547.04] word -[3547.04 --> 3547.42] who took -[3547.42 --> 3547.62] on -[3547.62 --> 3548.10] flesh -[3548.10 --> 3548.92] Jesus -[3548.92 --> 3549.72] the word -[3549.72 --> 3550.24] of God -[3550.24 --> 3550.90] incarnate -[3550.90 --> 3551.74] will give -[3551.74 --> 3552.26] you a -[3552.26 --> 3552.54] new -[3552.54 --> 3553.30] name -[3553.30 --> 3554.94] right -[3554.94 --> 3555.20] to the -[3555.20 --> 3555.60] one who -[3555.60 --> 3555.82] is -[3555.82 --> 3556.32] victorious -[3556.32 --> 3556.68] I -[3556.68 --> 3556.88] will -[3556.88 --> 3557.18] write -[3557.18 --> 3557.68] on them -[3557.68 --> 3558.26] the name -[3558.26 --> 3558.60] of my -[3558.60 --> 3558.92] God -[3558.92 --> 3559.20] and the -[3559.20 --> 3559.46] name -[3559.46 --> 3559.72] of the -[3559.72 --> 3559.94] city -[3559.94 --> 3560.32] of my -[3560.32 --> 3560.60] God -[3560.60 --> 3561.24] the new -[3561.24 --> 3561.68] Jerusalem -[3561.68 --> 3562.04] which is -[3562.04 --> 3562.54] coming down -[3562.54 --> 3562.96] out of -[3562.96 --> 3563.14] heaven -[3563.14 --> 3563.68] from my -[3563.68 --> 3563.94] God -[3563.94 --> 3564.54] and I -[3564.54 --> 3564.68] will -[3564.68 --> 3565.00] write -[3565.00 --> 3565.60] on them -[3565.60 --> 3566.10] my -[3566.10 --> 3566.78] new -[3566.78 --> 3567.48] name -[3567.48 --> 3570.00] okay -[3570.00 --> 3571.96] in the -[3571.96 --> 3572.22] ancient -[3572.22 --> 3572.64] world -[3572.64 --> 3574.18] world -[3574.18 --> 3576.12] and in the -[3576.12 --> 3576.66] world -[3576.66 --> 3576.86] of magic -[3576.86 --> 3577.32] and this idea is still around today -[3577.32 --> 3578.56] or maybe it's better to say -[3578.56 --> 3581.06] as Christianity in the west has -[3581.06 --> 3582.80] started to recede -[3582.80 --> 3585.04] paganism is rushing back in -[3585.04 --> 3586.48] and so this idea still persists -[3586.48 --> 3589.22] but the idea is that to know someone's name -[3589.22 --> 3591.36] especially their true name -[3591.36 --> 3592.92] is to have power over them -[3592.92 --> 3596.70] but to be called by God's name -[3596.70 --> 3598.30] is to be under his protection -[3598.30 --> 3599.36] his rule -[3599.36 --> 3600.34] and his power -[3600.34 --> 3602.14] to be called by God's name -[3602.14 --> 3603.26] is to be under his -[3603.26 --> 3604.58] fatherly hand -[3604.58 --> 3605.60] and kingly -[3605.60 --> 3606.30] rule -[3606.30 --> 3608.52] right that's why the priestly -[3608.52 --> 3610.50] blessing ends the way it does -[3610.50 --> 3612.48] do you remember this one -[3612.48 --> 3613.78] right we hear it often -[3613.78 --> 3614.90] numbers six -[3614.90 --> 3616.46] the priestly blessing -[3616.46 --> 3618.50] the Lord said to Moses -[3618.50 --> 3619.90] tell Aaron and his sons -[3619.90 --> 3622.24] this is how you are to bless the Israelites -[3622.24 --> 3624.58] and so the church has used this blessing -[3624.58 --> 3625.80] since this time -[3625.80 --> 3627.40] saying the Lord bless you -[3627.40 --> 3628.08] and keep you -[3628.08 --> 3629.16] the Lord make his face -[3629.16 --> 3630.12] to shine on you -[3630.12 --> 3631.40] and be gracious to you -[3631.40 --> 3633.22] the Lord turn his face -[3633.22 --> 3633.98] towards you -[3633.98 --> 3635.10] and give you -[3635.10 --> 3635.72] his -[3635.72 --> 3636.78] peace -[3636.78 --> 3638.90] and then this line -[3638.90 --> 3640.74] so -[3640.74 --> 3642.68] they will put my name -[3642.68 --> 3643.92] on the Israelites -[3643.92 --> 3646.02] and I will bless them -[3646.02 --> 3649.44] they will put my name -[3649.44 --> 3650.14] on them -[3650.14 --> 3650.76] and I -[3650.76 --> 3651.44] will -[3651.44 --> 3652.26] bless them -[3652.26 --> 3652.98] often when we -[3652.98 --> 3653.92] end our worship -[3653.92 --> 3654.74] with this blessing -[3654.74 --> 3656.28] we don't read that last line -[3656.28 --> 3657.34] but if you've got the ears -[3657.34 --> 3657.78] to hear it -[3657.78 --> 3658.94] whenever we do a baptism -[3658.94 --> 3660.22] in this church -[3660.22 --> 3661.62] I add it back -[3661.62 --> 3663.50] because this is about -[3663.50 --> 3664.52] our identity -[3664.52 --> 3665.62] about the name -[3665.62 --> 3666.22] of the covenant -[3666.22 --> 3667.42] God going on -[3667.42 --> 3668.02] his covenant -[3668.02 --> 3668.76] children -[3668.76 --> 3670.06] God's name -[3670.06 --> 3670.98] makes us -[3670.98 --> 3671.76] a people -[3671.76 --> 3672.72] a holy -[3672.72 --> 3673.50] nation -[3673.50 --> 3675.12] this is who you are -[3675.12 --> 3678.34] this is why Jesus says -[3678.34 --> 3679.18] that he will give us -[3679.18 --> 3680.12] the name of the city -[3680.12 --> 3680.86] of my God -[3680.86 --> 3681.68] the new Jerusalem -[3681.68 --> 3682.92] which comes down -[3682.92 --> 3683.54] out of heaven -[3683.54 --> 3684.78] over and over -[3684.78 --> 3685.92] we read in the Bible -[3685.92 --> 3686.74] things like -[3686.74 --> 3687.72] once you were not -[3687.72 --> 3688.20] a people -[3688.20 --> 3689.68] but now you are -[3689.68 --> 3690.64] the people of God -[3690.64 --> 3691.46] we read that our -[3691.46 --> 3691.90] citizenship -[3691.90 --> 3693.02] is in heaven -[3693.02 --> 3694.26] we read that we belong -[3694.26 --> 3694.76] to God -[3694.76 --> 3695.48] and our citizens -[3695.48 --> 3696.72] of his kingdom -[3696.72 --> 3697.72] that our citizenship -[3697.72 --> 3699.16] is in the new Jerusalem -[3699.16 --> 3699.84] right -[3699.84 --> 3700.78] this is replete -[3700.78 --> 3702.06] throughout our -[3702.06 --> 3702.78] New Testament -[3702.78 --> 3703.70] identities -[3703.70 --> 3704.76] we are a new -[3704.76 --> 3705.76] creation people -[3705.76 --> 3706.84] by grace -[3706.84 --> 3707.86] through faith -[3707.86 --> 3708.84] made into -[3708.84 --> 3709.64] a holy -[3709.64 --> 3710.58] nation -[3710.58 --> 3712.06] that's what happens -[3712.06 --> 3713.34] when you are clothed -[3713.34 --> 3714.50] with Christ -[3714.50 --> 3717.06] and Jesus says -[3717.06 --> 3717.72] that he will write -[3717.72 --> 3718.26] on us -[3718.26 --> 3719.74] his new -[3719.74 --> 3720.46] name -[3720.46 --> 3722.56] Isaiah 62 -[3722.56 --> 3723.42] says that we will be -[3723.42 --> 3724.48] called by a new name -[3724.48 --> 3725.40] and Revelation 3 -[3725.40 --> 3726.52] says that that new -[3726.52 --> 3727.34] name will be -[3727.34 --> 3727.72] Jesus -[3727.72 --> 3728.72] new -[3728.72 --> 3729.62] name -[3729.62 --> 3731.38] the servant -[3731.38 --> 3731.86] Messiah -[3731.86 --> 3733.22] gives you a new -[3733.22 --> 3733.62] name -[3733.62 --> 3734.60] which comes with -[3734.60 --> 3735.44] a new purpose -[3735.44 --> 3736.66] to reveal his -[3736.66 --> 3737.48] kingdom come -[3737.48 --> 3738.30] and his kingdom -[3738.30 --> 3738.70] coming -[3738.70 --> 3739.74] and Jesus -[3739.74 --> 3740.82] in his divinity -[3740.82 --> 3741.64] reveals the -[3741.64 --> 3742.68] fullness of God -[3742.68 --> 3743.48] Emmanuel -[3743.48 --> 3744.40] and Jesus -[3744.40 --> 3745.78] in his humanity -[3745.78 --> 3747.36] reveals the fullness -[3747.36 --> 3748.42] of what it means -[3748.42 --> 3749.76] to be human -[3749.76 --> 3751.96] your new name -[3751.96 --> 3752.76] the only name -[3752.76 --> 3753.28] that matters -[3753.28 --> 3753.98] is Jesus -[3753.98 --> 3755.38] new name -[3755.38 --> 3757.14] the name of Jesus -[3757.14 --> 3758.22] written indelibly -[3758.22 --> 3759.54] on your forehead -[3759.54 --> 3760.48] the name -[3760.48 --> 3761.62] that may be -[3761.62 --> 3762.78] written invisibly -[3762.78 --> 3764.14] but you -[3764.14 --> 3765.18] now make it -[3765.18 --> 3765.68] visible -[3765.68 --> 3766.82] by the way -[3766.82 --> 3767.26] you live -[3767.26 --> 3768.66] the power -[3768.66 --> 3769.16] of God's -[3769.16 --> 3769.76] transformation -[3769.76 --> 3770.92] working out -[3770.92 --> 3771.50] of you -[3771.50 --> 3773.54] so ask -[3773.54 --> 3773.90] God -[3773.90 --> 3774.66] today -[3774.66 --> 3775.92] how you -[3775.92 --> 3776.46] are still -[3776.46 --> 3776.86] living -[3776.86 --> 3777.34] like he -[3777.34 --> 3777.96] doesn't matter -[3777.96 --> 3779.54] ask him -[3779.54 --> 3780.18] to show you -[3780.18 --> 3780.62] how you -[3780.62 --> 3781.10] are living -[3781.10 --> 3781.96] like he -[3781.96 --> 3782.68] isn't God -[3782.68 --> 3783.08] and that he -[3783.08 --> 3783.48] hasn't -[3783.48 --> 3784.24] transformed you -[3784.24 --> 3785.06] ask him -[3785.06 --> 3788.04] but I would -[3788.04 --> 3788.38] wager -[3788.38 --> 3790.22] that you -[3790.22 --> 3790.86] already know -[3790.86 --> 3793.00] that you -[3793.00 --> 3793.50] already know -[3793.50 --> 3794.06] one or two -[3794.06 --> 3794.68] areas of your -[3794.68 --> 3795.32] life that need -[3795.32 --> 3796.14] to be transformed -[3796.14 --> 3797.42] by living -[3797.42 --> 3798.24] the righteousness -[3798.24 --> 3798.96] of God -[3798.96 --> 3800.44] and so -[3800.44 --> 3801.00] instead of -[3801.00 --> 3801.58] asking him -[3801.58 --> 3802.26] to show you -[3802.26 --> 3804.54] maybe today's -[3804.54 --> 3805.08] the day -[3805.08 --> 3806.18] you commit -[3806.18 --> 3807.06] to the discipline -[3807.06 --> 3808.18] of showing -[3808.18 --> 3808.58] him -[3808.58 --> 3809.72] showing him -[3809.72 --> 3810.16] that you -[3810.16 --> 3810.68] can live -[3810.68 --> 3811.14] as one -[3811.14 --> 3812.06] victorious -[3812.06 --> 3813.48] wouldn't that -[3813.48 --> 3814.06] be something -[3814.06 --> 3817.18] so yeah -[3817.18 --> 3819.16] Emmanuel -[3819.16 --> 3820.42] God with us -[3820.42 --> 3821.66] means something -[3821.66 --> 3822.26] for more -[3822.26 --> 3822.76] than just -[3822.76 --> 3823.48] Christmas day -[3823.48 --> 3825.30] God with us -[3825.30 --> 3825.88] changes -[3825.88 --> 3826.94] everything -[3826.94 --> 3828.48] because he -[3828.48 --> 3829.50] has changed -[3829.50 --> 3830.20] you -[3830.20 --> 3831.62] from your -[3831.62 --> 3832.04] core -[3832.04 --> 3833.14] transformed -[3833.14 --> 3833.96] into the -[3833.96 --> 3834.46] image of -[3834.46 --> 3834.80] Christ -[3834.80 --> 3835.66] filled with -[3835.66 --> 3836.18] the power -[3836.18 --> 3836.90] of the -[3836.90 --> 3837.20] spirit -[3837.20 --> 3838.06] the servant -[3838.06 --> 3838.56] Messiah -[3838.56 --> 3839.22] gives you -[3839.22 --> 3839.70] a new -[3839.70 --> 3840.14] name -[3840.14 --> 3840.78] that comes -[3840.78 --> 3841.38] with a -[3841.38 --> 3841.64] new -[3841.64 --> 3842.30] purpose -[3842.30 --> 3842.98] he has -[3842.98 --> 3843.80] shown you -[3843.80 --> 3844.64] the fullness -[3844.64 --> 3845.38] of God -[3845.38 --> 3846.42] and the -[3846.42 --> 3846.76] fullness -[3846.76 --> 3848.56] of humanity -[3848.56 --> 3850.78] and that's -[3850.78 --> 3851.36] the life -[3851.36 --> 3852.64] we want -[3852.64 --> 3853.04] to live -[3853.04 --> 3853.78] amen -[3853.78 --> 3855.36] amen -[3855.36 --> 3856.18] let's pray -[3856.18 --> 3856.62] together -[3856.62 --> 3864.76] God you -[3864.76 --> 3865.20] have -[3865.20 --> 3866.06] transformed -[3866.06 --> 3866.80] us by -[3866.80 --> 3867.30] grace -[3867.30 --> 3868.02] through -[3868.02 --> 3868.44] faith -[3868.44 --> 3870.94] for those -[3870.94 --> 3871.24] of us -[3871.24 --> 3871.80] who believe -[3871.80 --> 3872.48] we are -[3872.48 --> 3872.80] a new -[3872.80 --> 3873.38] creation -[3873.38 --> 3876.04] and so -[3876.04 --> 3876.28] God -[3876.28 --> 3876.84] send us -[3876.84 --> 3877.22] out -[3877.22 --> 3878.76] as -[3878.76 --> 3879.88] new -[3879.88 --> 3881.16] creations -[3881.16 --> 3882.08] send us -[3882.08 --> 3882.38] out -[3882.38 --> 3882.40] out -[3882.40 --> 3882.60] as -[3882.60 --> 3882.88] those -[3882.88 --> 3883.18] with -[3883.18 --> 3883.78] a new -[3883.78 --> 3884.10] name -[3884.10 --> 3884.40] with the -[3884.40 --> 3884.70] power -[3884.70 --> 3885.02] of the -[3885.02 --> 3885.32] spirit -[3885.32 --> 3885.98] to live -[3885.98 --> 3886.66] transformed -[3886.66 --> 3887.10] lives -[3887.10 --> 3887.32] in the -[3887.32 --> 3887.56] world -[3887.56 --> 3887.88] and by -[3887.88 --> 3888.10] living -[3888.10 --> 3888.62] transformed -[3888.62 --> 3888.98] lives -[3888.98 --> 3889.50] to reveal -[3889.50 --> 3890.22] your kingdom -[3890.22 --> 3890.58] come -[3890.58 --> 3890.94] and your -[3890.94 --> 3891.20] kingdom -[3891.20 --> 3891.62] coming -[3891.62 --> 3892.60] send us -[3892.60 --> 3893.04] out -[3893.04 --> 3894.26] as a new -[3894.26 --> 3894.70] people -[3894.70 --> 3896.40] a holy -[3896.40 --> 3896.90] nation -[3896.90 --> 3897.84] a royal -[3897.84 --> 3898.50] priesthood -[3898.50 --> 3899.26] a people -[3899.26 --> 3899.80] belonging -[3899.80 --> 3900.42] to God -[3900.42 --> 3904.60] and father -[3904.60 --> 3905.06] for those -[3905.06 --> 3905.60] of us -[3905.60 --> 3906.48] here this -[3906.48 --> 3906.86] morning -[3906.86 --> 3909.48] who haven't -[3909.48 --> 3909.96] yet been -[3909.96 --> 3910.54] transformed -[3910.54 --> 3912.24] for those -[3912.24 --> 3912.56] of us -[3912.56 --> 3913.00] here this -[3913.00 --> 3913.28] morning -[3913.28 --> 3913.62] who are -[3913.62 --> 3914.28] crying out -[3914.28 --> 3915.44] Jesus Christ -[3915.44 --> 3916.02] give me -[3916.02 --> 3916.32] your -[3916.32 --> 3916.98] righteousness -[3916.98 --> 3917.78] I pray -[3917.78 --> 3918.30] that you -[3918.30 --> 3918.88] would make -[3918.88 --> 3919.30] that -[3919.30 --> 3920.10] real -[3920.10 --> 3920.60] today -[3920.60 --> 3923.88] open the -[3923.88 --> 3924.36] eyes -[3924.36 --> 3925.04] of our -[3925.04 --> 3926.08] dead -[3926.08 --> 3927.12] and blind -[3927.12 --> 3928.04] hearts -[3928.04 --> 3929.60] that we -[3929.60 --> 3930.30] might live -[3930.30 --> 3930.98] and see -[3930.98 --> 3931.50] you -[3931.50 --> 3932.70] today -[3932.70 --> 3935.06] and if -[3935.06 --> 3935.36] for the -[3935.36 --> 3936.04] first time -[3936.04 --> 3936.60] Lord God -[3936.60 --> 3938.24] open the -[3938.24 --> 3938.80] eyes of our -[3938.80 --> 3939.20] hearts -[3939.20 --> 3939.56] that we -[3939.56 --> 3940.14] might see -[3940.14 --> 3940.46] you -[3940.46 --> 3941.82] and move -[3941.82 --> 3942.52] in us -[3942.52 --> 3943.76] to reach -[3943.76 --> 3944.14] out -[3944.14 --> 3946.68] to offer -[3946.68 --> 3947.46] our lives -[3947.46 --> 3948.42] in response -[3948.42 --> 3949.68] to you -[3949.68 --> 3950.16] offering -[3950.16 --> 3950.64] yours -[3950.64 --> 3952.76] move in -[3952.76 --> 3953.22] us to -[3953.22 --> 3953.76] connect -[3953.76 --> 3954.62] and to go -[3954.62 --> 3955.26] deeper in -[3955.26 --> 3955.94] relationship -[3955.94 --> 3957.04] and discipleship -[3957.04 --> 3957.74] and discipline -[3957.74 --> 3963.50] God you -[3963.50 --> 3963.86] are with -[3963.86 --> 3964.24] us -[3964.24 --> 3965.54] and so -[3965.54 --> 3966.18] go with -[3966.18 --> 3966.60] us -[3966.60 --> 3967.62] into the -[3967.62 --> 3968.00] rest -[3968.00 --> 3968.98] of our -[3968.98 --> 3969.40] lives -[3969.40 --> 3970.70] in Jesus -[3970.70 --> 3971.22] name we -[3971.22 --> 3971.56] pray -[3971.56 --> 3972.56] amen -[3972.56 --> 3974.22] amen -[4002.56 --> 4003.06] you -[4003.06 --> 4003.76] unravel -[4003.76 --> 4004.76] me -[4004.76 --> 4005.96] with -[4005.96 --> 4007.20] a melody -[4007.20 --> 4009.46] surround -[4009.46 --> 4010.60] me -[4010.60 --> 4011.76] with -[4011.76 --> 4012.20] good -[4012.20 --> 4013.26] song -[4013.26 --> 4015.00] about -[4015.00 --> 4016.90] deliverance -[4016.90 --> 4018.44] from my -[4018.44 --> 4020.08] enemies -[4020.08 --> 4021.90] till all -[4021.90 --> 4023.96] my fears -[4023.96 --> 4025.30] are gone -[4025.30 --> 4027.36] I'm no -[4027.36 --> 4028.06] longer -[4028.06 --> 4029.40] a slave -[4029.40 --> 4031.54] to fear -[4031.54 --> 4032.54] fear -[4032.54 --> 4034.24] I am -[4034.24 --> 4036.30] a child -[4036.30 --> 4037.44] of God -[4037.44 --> 4039.40] I'm no -[4039.40 --> 4040.12] longer -[4040.12 --> 4042.18] a slave -[4042.18 --> 4043.48] to fear -[4043.48 --> 4046.24] I am -[4046.24 --> 4047.24] a child -[4047.24 --> 4049.36] of God -[4049.36 --> 4051.06] love -[4051.06 --> 4060.30] from my -[4060.30 --> 4061.70] mother's womb -[4061.70 --> 4063.44] you have -[4063.44 --> 4065.06] chosen me -[4065.06 --> 4067.02] love -[4067.02 --> 4067.72] has -[4067.72 --> 4068.12] come -[4068.12 --> 4070.12] by me -[4070.12 --> 4072.18] I've -[4072.18 --> 4072.88] been born -[4072.88 --> 4073.82] again -[4073.82 --> 4075.42] to your -[4075.42 --> 4076.36] family -[4076.36 --> 4081.94] trans -[4082.78 --> 4082.98] you have -[4082.98 --> 4083.94] in -[4084.32 --> 4085.00] life -[4085.00 --> 4087.98] to me -[4087.98 --> 4090.20] earth -[4094.20 --> 4095.50] who -[4095.50 --> 4095.98] has -[4095.98 --> 4096.40] gone -[4096.40 --> 4097.56] and -[4097.56 --> 4098.12] nothing -[4098.12 --> 4098.34] has -[4098.36 --> 4106.34] gone -[4106.34 --> 4112.34] I'm no longer a saint here. -[4113.08 --> 4118.10] I am a child of God. -[4118.52 --> 4123.34] I'm no longer a saint here. -[4125.02 --> 4129.78] I am a child of God. -[4136.34 --> 4166.32] I am a child of God. -[4166.34 --> 4196.32] I am a child of God. -[4196.34 --> 4204.34] I'm no longer a saint here. -[4206.28 --> 4210.34] I am a child of God. -[4210.34 --> 4216.34] I'm no longer a saint here. -[4216.34 --> 4223.34] I am a child of God. -[4223.34 --> 4233.34] I am a child of God. -[4233.34 --> 4243.34] I am a child of God. -[4243.34 --> 4253.34] I am a child of God. -[4253.34 --> 4263.34] I am a child of God. -[4263.34 --> 4265.34] I am a child of God. -[4265.34 --> 4268.82] If the person beside you doesn't, come find me and I'll pray with you. -[4269.12 --> 4269.86] I won't worry with them. -[4270.04 --> 4270.78] Just come find me. -[4271.34 --> 4273.08] Receive the blessing of God. -[4273.08 --> 4279.08] Amen. -[4279.08 --> 4281.08] God bless you. -[4281.08 --> 4283.08] Amen. -[4283.08 --> 4285.08] Amen. -[4285.08 --> 4287.08] Amen. -[4287.08 --> 4289.08] Amen. -[4289.08 --> 4295.08] Amen. -[4295.08 --> 4296.08] Amen. -[4296.08 --> 4297.08] Amen. -[4297.08 --> 4299.08] Amen. -[4299.08 --> 4301.08] Amen. -[4301.08 --> 4303.08] Amen. -[4303.08 --> 4305.08] Amen. -[4305.08 --> 4311.08] Amen. -[4311.08 --> 4313.08] Amen. -[4313.08 --> 4323.08] Amen. -[4323.08 --> 4328.68] In vain its builders strive. -[4329.48 --> 4335.26] To you who post tomorrow's game, -[4335.56 --> 4340.98] Tell me what is your life? -[4340.98 --> 4347.48] A mist that vanishes at dawn, -[4347.82 --> 4352.98] All glory be to Christ. -[4353.96 --> 4359.74] All glory be to Christ our King, -[4360.10 --> 4365.50] All glory be to Christ. -[4365.50 --> 4371.66] His rule and reign will ever sing, -[4372.02 --> 4377.56] All glory be to Christ. -[4377.56 --> 4383.72] When his glory done, his kingdom come, -[4383.94 --> 4387.72] On earth as his above, -[4389.06 --> 4394.36] Who is himself our daily breath? -[4394.60 --> 4398.38] Praise him, the Lord above. -[4398.38 --> 4404.54] When living water stands by, -[4404.76 --> 4409.24] The mercy without Christ, -[4409.76 --> 4414.04] Will take the cup of kindness, -[4414.04 --> 4419.04] All glory be to Christ. -[4419.04 --> 4424.82] All glory be to Christ our King, -[4424.82 --> 4429.44] All glory be to Christ. -[4429.44 --> 4434.90] His rule and reign will ever sing, -[4434.90 --> 4440.02] All glory be to Christ. -[4440.02 --> 4455.28] And all who did the great Lamb, -[4455.28 --> 4459.18] The faithful and the true, -[4459.18 --> 4463.50] The Lamb who was born, -[4463.50 --> 4463.52] The Lamb who was born, -[4463.52 --> 4465.18] For sin or sin, -[4465.18 --> 4469.68] His name the old things do. -[4470.18 --> 4475.24] Behold, our God shall live with us, -[4475.44 --> 4479.76] And we are steadfast light, -[4479.76 --> 4489.80] Then we shall let his people be All glory be to Christ -[4489.80 --> 4495.18] All glory be to Christ Our King -[4495.18 --> 4505.02] All glory be to Christ His rule and reign will ever swing -[4505.02 --> 4509.76] All glory be to Christ -[4509.76 --> 4515.40] All glory be to Christ our King -[4515.40 --> 4520.72] All glory be to Christ -[4520.72 --> 4526.84] His rule and reign will ever sing -[4526.84 --> 4532.92] All glory be to Christ -[4535.02 --> 4565.00] All glory be to Christ -[4565.02 --> 4595.00] All glory be to Christ -[4595.00 --> 4600.80] All glory be to Christ -[4600.80 --> 4602.80] Thank you. -[4630.80 --> 4660.78] Thank you. -[4660.80 --> 4690.78] Thank you. -[4690.80 --> 4720.78] Thank you. -[4720.80 --> 4750.78] Thank you. -[4750.80 --> 4780.78] Thank you. -[4780.80 --> 4810.78] Thank you. -[4810.80 --> 4840.78] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 31, 2023_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 31, 2023_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a21130388cf663024e8322d071ced0fc4dfd4381..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 31, 2023_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,134 +0,0 @@ -• Fights with internal voices and negative self-talk -• Reminding oneself of God's love, strength, and holding power -• Finding worth and identity in God's perspective -• Announcements for upcoming events: women's retreat, small worship gathering at Sunridge Gardens, and kids' blessing on Sunday -• Inviting congregation to gather together for worship and learning about God -• Call to worship from Psalm 89, emphasizing the importance of rejoicing in God's righteousness -• Singing hymns, including "Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee" and "Your Name Is Higher" -• Congregation participating in a song of ages, praising and worshiping God -• Worship and praise of God as the King of Kings -• Acknowledgment of God's name being above all things -• Prayer for guidance and direction in life -• Expression of love and worship to God through song -• Request for healing and blessing on those in need -• Affirmation of God's presence and faithfulness throughout time -• Praise and worship of God's goodness and faithfulness -• Confession of need for God and reliance on Him -• Expression of gratitude for God's guidance and presence -• Discussion of sin, temptation, and the need for holiness -• Prayer for teaching and singing to God -• Introduction of Mike, a deacon at the church, and discussion of financial offerings -• A fund is mentioned for helping those with special needs within the church family and community. -• The fund has been used extensively this year and thanks are given to its donors. -• Prayers and worship songs are sung. -• A call for preschool-age children to come forward during children's worship time. -• Questions about Christmas activities and being in church on Christmas Day. -• Hank the Hound is mentioned, a regular companion of the speaker who is not present today. -• The transition to children's worship time is announced. -• Children's blessing and prayer -• Online giving campaign to support church finances -• Church skate event and thanks to attendees -• New Year's prayers for personal journeys, challenges, and conflicts around the world -• Request for guidance on conflict resolution, unity, and reconciliation -• Care for the earth and its resources -• Celebration of new life and birth -• Prayers for those facing difficulties, hardships, and mourning recent losses -• Support for grieving families and individuals -• Welcome and recognition of new members in the congregation -• Gratitude for church leaders and their roles in the community -• Looking back on the year and anticipating God's continued work -• Difficulty seeing God at work in some situations -• The importance of grounding in Scripture as we reflect on the past year -• Reading Jeremiah 23:23-24, which declares God's presence and power -• Assessing the past year and its impact on our perspective for the future -• The tendency to assume success or hardship based on previous experiences -• Distinction between apathy, hopelessness, and optimism when considering God's presence -• Understanding of God's nature and role in the world -• Analysis of three rhetorical questions from scripture regarding God's nearness, ability to hide from Him, and omnipresence -• Discussion of God's incredulity at those who misrepresent His character -• Jeremiah prophesies about the Babylonian captivity and exile -• The Israelites have forgotten God's ways, leading to their capture by Nebuchadnezzar's armies -• False prophets contradict Jeremiah's messages, promising a peaceful and prosperous future -• Jeremiah creates a wooden yoke as a sign of the coming burden of Babylon -• Hananiah breaks the yoke, falsely prophesying that Nebuchadnezzar's rule will end within two years -• Desire for ease and comfort in life -• Preference for messages that make people feel good over ones that confront them with truth and guilt -• Lack of change in human nature despite repeated messages -• Expectation of a better life defined by material wealth or ease -• Questioning what to do if life does not improve despite following God's promises -• Criticism of false prophets who blame individuals for their situation -• Redefining God to make him manageable and controllable -• Making God a debit and credit machine, where good things are given based on what we do -• Failing to recognize that this view of God is not based on biblical understanding -• Comparing this view to the universe or spiritual energy as a way to get what we want -• How many people today view God in a similar way, trying to manage him and make him respond to their actions. -• Definition of "omni" as a Latin prefix meaning all or every -• Explanation of God's omnis: omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence -• Analogy using an escape room with an omnidirectional lock to illustrate the concept of moving in every direction -• Clarification that understanding the meaning of these terms is essential for further discussion -• The speaker describes a physical object that requires sequential direction to move. -• A comparison is made between God's omnipotence and the localized gods of ancient Near Eastern mythology, such as Baal or Mot. -• Gods in ancient Near Eastern mythology were often tied to specific regions or localities, whereas God in the Bible is considered all-powerful and not regionalized. -• The concept of God's omnipotence and power -• God's presence in all regions, realms, and rooms -• God's knowledge and omniscience -• The idea that God knows the secrets of human hearts -• Psalm references (44, 144, 39) highlighting God's understanding and perception of human thoughts and actions -• The nature of God's all-knowing and all-seeing attributes -• The implications of God not knowing everything, including the potential for humans to surprise or catch Him off guard -• The idea that if God doesn't know everything, He is not in control but must react to situations -• The notion that this understanding undermines God's character as described in scripture -• The concept of God's sovereignty and omnipresence -• The idea that without God, nothing would exist or continue to exist -• A discussion on Jeremiah's message about God's knowledge and presence even in exile and difficult circumstances -• A reference to Psalm 139 highlighting God's presence everywhere, including in heaven and earth -• The speaker discusses the concept of God's omnipresence, stating that God is everywhere and present in all aspects of creation. -• A distinction is made between panentheism/pantheism, where God is part of creation, and the idea that God is present everywhere through his spirit. -• Examples are given to illustrate God's presence, including heaven, depths, morning, other side of the sea, darkness, hospital room, graveside, and counseling room. -• The speaker emphasizes that there is no place, time, or situation where God is not present. -• The presence of God in difficult times -• The truth that God is always with us -• The characteristics of God (omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent) -• Jeremiah's reminder to see trials as under God's control and having a purpose in them -• The idea that even suffering can be used by God for His plan -• The concept that God has a purpose for human suffering is discussed -• The idea that if God is not all-powerful, then human suffering is meaningless -• The importance of having confidence in God's power and control -• The limitations of the "God of health and wealth" doctrine -• The scriptural evidence that supports God's omnipotence and omniscience -• The promise of a righteous branch to take the place of failed leaders -• The concept of a new act of salvation by God -• A new covenant that changes people's hearts -• External obedience vs. internal transformation through God's work -• The cross as an example of God turning evil into good -• Jesus' life, death, and resurrection as the basis for restoration to God -• Omni-comfort is real because God is omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent. -• The concept of omni-comfort is discussed in the context of Reformed theology. -• The word "providence" refers to God's action of bringing comfort through his omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence. -• Question 27 of the Heidelberg Catechism defines providence as God's almighty power by which he upholds heaven and earth. -• The knowledge of God's creation and providence -• How knowing God helps us be patient, thankful, and have confidence in the future -• Understanding that all creatures are in God's hand and cannot move without His will -• The importance of holding truth about who God is -• A reference to a question and answer from the Heidelberg Catechism -• Talking about reflecting on past year and looking forward to next -• Importance of faith and trusting in God's work -• Praying for clarity to see God at work, and trust when unable to do so -• Belief that all things will work together for good -• Asking God to fill them with His purpose -• Invocation and prayer for the new year -• Reflection on the fleeting nature of human efforts and legacy -• Warning against boasting or pride -• Praise and worship of Jesus Christ as Lord and King -• Acknowledgment of His rule and reign -• Recognition of Christ's sacrifice and provision for sinners -• Declaration of His living presence with believers -• Praise and worship -• Invitation to fellowship and refreshments -• Opportunity for prayer or being prayed over -• Connecting with others through question-answer cards or personal connection -• Information about the Connect booth and connecting with the speaker -• Invocation of God's protection and blessings -• Reassurance not to be afraid -• Request for God's blessing, peace, and presence -• Multiple repetitions of "Amen" \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 31, 2023_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 31, 2023_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a8a183aa288b56634da20f622eed5319504e9265..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 31, 2023_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2992 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 16.86] I keep fighting voices in my mind that say I'm not enough -[16.86 --> 28.64] Every single lie that tells me I would never measure -[30.00 --> 42.38] Am I more than just the sum of baby high and then below -[48.38 --> 55.46] Remind me once again just who I am because I need to know -[55.46 --> 65.64] You say I'm loved when I can't feel a thing -[65.64 --> 72.16] You say I'm strong when I think I'm weak -[72.16 --> 78.68] And you say I'm held when I am falling short -[78.68 --> 85.36] And when I don't belong, oh, you say I'm yours -[85.36 --> 91.74] And I believe, oh, I believe -[91.74 --> 98.22] What you say of me, I believe -[98.22 --> 108.02] The only thing that matters now is everything you think of me -[108.02 --> 119.94] In you I find my worth, in you I find my identity -[119.94 --> 130.34] You say I'm loved when I can't feel a thing -[130.34 --> 137.02] You say I'm strong when I think I'm weak -[137.02 --> 143.66] And you say I'm held when I am falling short -[143.66 --> 150.16] When I don't belong, oh, you say I'm yours -[150.16 --> 156.64] And I believe, oh, I believe -[156.64 --> 163.18] What you say of me, oh, I believe -[163.18 --> 176.16] Taking all I have and now I'm laying it at your feet -[176.16 --> 180.84] You say I'm weak -[180.84 --> 184.70] You have every failure, God -[184.70 --> 188.10] You have every victory -[188.10 --> 198.62] You say I'm loved when I can't feel a thing -[198.62 --> 205.08] You say I'm strong when I think I'm weak -[205.08 --> 211.66] You say I'm held when I am falling short -[211.66 --> 218.32] When I don't belong, oh, you say I'm yours -[218.32 --> 224.30] And I believe, oh, I believe -[224.30 --> 230.76] What you say of me, oh, I believe -[230.76 --> 231.76] Oh, I believe -[231.76 --> 234.44] Oh, I believe -[234.44 --> 235.44] Oh, I believe -[235.44 --> 237.76] Yes, I believe -[237.76 --> 243.76] What you say of me, oh, I believe -[243.76 --> 245.76] Oh, I believe -[245.76 --> 271.18] Good morning -[271.18 --> 274.12] Merry Christmas -[274.12 --> 276.22] If I haven't seen you yet this season -[276.22 --> 279.48] Happy New Year for today as well -[279.48 --> 284.26] Thank you for joining with us and gathering here to worship our God -[284.26 --> 286.96] If you are a guest with us this morning -[286.96 --> 288.18] My name is Chris -[288.18 --> 289.68] I'm one of the pastors here -[289.68 --> 295.90] And it is my privilege and really our privilege to gather together and worship our God -[295.90 --> 299.62] This New Year's Eve Day Sunday -[299.62 --> 303.08] Before we begin, there's just a couple announcements to make -[303.08 --> 306.20] I'm going to invite Wendy to come to the front -[306.20 --> 309.36] She's going to make an announcement for a women's group -[309.36 --> 314.80] And while she's walking up, just wanted to remind you all that next Saturday -[314.80 --> 317.58] So six days from now -[317.58 --> 322.12] We're hosting a small worship gathering at Sunridge Gardens -[322.12 --> 326.32] And so if you are available and would like to join together -[326.32 --> 330.60] There's a small group that leads in worship with a gathering of residents from Sunridge -[330.60 --> 333.10] Which is just up the hill over here -[333.10 --> 336.50] We really encourage you to show up and participate in that -[336.50 --> 340.90] It's really good to connect and to be with those people who live there -[340.90 --> 343.42] Some of whom worship with us here regularly -[343.42 --> 347.42] Others of whom only have that one day to worship in the month -[347.42 --> 350.08] So we're grateful to be part of that and to lead there -[350.08 --> 351.08] Please -[351.08 --> 353.38] Hi, I'm Wendy -[353.38 --> 357.54] I'm just part of a team from our women's fellowship group -[357.54 --> 360.32] And we're very excited -[360.32 --> 362.42] We're having a women's retreat -[362.42 --> 365.92] March 8, so it's a Friday evening -[365.92 --> 368.84] To Sunday, which is March 10 -[368.84 --> 371.60] And that'll be like at noon -[371.60 --> 374.22] It's at Kakwa Lake Lodge -[374.22 --> 380.28] There's opportunity to kayak, to hike, to have some fires and fun -[380.28 --> 384.12] And it'll be including five meals and some snacks -[384.12 --> 387.56] And our speaker we just got yesterday -[387.56 --> 390.22] And her name is Jean Dykeshorn Hoagie -[390.22 --> 392.40] So we're really excited about that -[392.40 --> 397.36] She'll be speaking with us in some groups on Saturday -[397.36 --> 399.78] And it'll be a lot of fun -[399.78 --> 402.72] And just getting to know each other as women -[402.72 --> 403.64] Sorry guys -[403.64 --> 406.48] You'll have to plan your own -[406.48 --> 408.46] Anyways -[408.46 --> 411.34] We'll be at the Connect booth in the back -[411.34 --> 415.16] Because we don't have all of our information nailed down yet -[415.16 --> 418.48] They weren't in the office for the last couple weeks -[418.48 --> 421.40] But yeah, we're really excited about this -[421.40 --> 423.94] And just see us in the back -[423.94 --> 426.18] And we'll try to give you a little bit more information -[426.18 --> 427.78] About this weekend -[427.78 --> 430.52] So keep March 8 through 10 open -[430.52 --> 431.78] Okay? Thanks -[431.78 --> 436.92] Thanks Wendy -[436.92 --> 440.86] And then just one last announcement -[440.86 --> 443.18] Later on in our worship -[443.18 --> 446.46] When we ordinarily have the kids' blessing -[446.46 --> 448.26] Because it's the holiday weekend -[448.26 --> 452.42] We're not having the full experience of children's worship time -[452.42 --> 455.34] But preschoolers will still be invited to come up to the front -[455.34 --> 457.14] And then they'll have a group that goes out -[457.14 --> 460.32] And does some worship and learning about God -[460.32 --> 461.82] In their time and space together -[461.82 --> 464.40] I believe that's it for announcements -[464.40 --> 465.16] At least for now -[465.16 --> 466.12] So I'm going to invite you -[466.12 --> 468.14] As you're able to stand -[468.14 --> 470.96] And we can be welcomed into God's presence together -[470.96 --> 480.08] It is a beautiful experience -[480.08 --> 482.24] And testimony of who God is -[482.24 --> 484.66] That when we gather together like this -[484.66 --> 486.14] He meets us here -[486.14 --> 489.58] And we mark God's presence with his greeting -[489.58 --> 491.32] And so I invite you to open your hands -[491.32 --> 492.50] Open your heart -[492.50 --> 494.30] And receive the greeting of God -[494.30 --> 496.46] Grace -[496.46 --> 497.88] Mercy -[497.88 --> 499.14] And peace to you -[499.14 --> 500.24] From God our Father -[500.24 --> 501.58] From the Lord Jesus Christ -[501.58 --> 502.08] Son -[502.08 --> 503.06] And our Savior -[503.06 --> 504.68] Through the presence and power -[504.68 --> 505.88] Of the Holy Spirit -[505.88 --> 507.24] Amen -[507.24 --> 509.72] I invite you to just take a moment -[509.72 --> 511.56] And turn to those around you -[511.56 --> 512.44] In worship this morning -[512.44 --> 514.80] And welcome them in the name of the Lord -[514.80 --> 520.78] Welcome to the side of the church -[520.78 --> 521.32] Welcome to the side of the church -[521.32 --> 522.46] May I get to food -[522.46 --> 524.36] Come on -[537.70 --> 540.10] Welcome to the church -[540.10 --> 544.34] Welcome to the side of the church -[544.34 --> 550.38] Good morning. -[550.72 --> 555.44] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 89, 15-17. -[556.58 --> 559.90] Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, -[560.22 --> 562.44] who walk in the light of your presence, Lord. -[563.24 --> 565.98] They rejoice in your name all day long. -[566.60 --> 568.26] They celebrate your righteousness. -[569.26 --> 571.02] For you are their glory and strength, -[571.02 --> 574.42] and by your favor you exalt our horn. -[575.58 --> 578.58] As we close another year and begin to walk into 2024, -[579.32 --> 581.20] may we start by celebrating his righteousness, -[581.90 --> 584.16] and may his name cause us to rejoice. -[584.72 --> 586.54] Let's raise our voices and praise this morning. -[601.02 --> 615.36] Joyful, joyful, we adore thee, God, and glory, Lord above. -[615.36 --> 619.78] Hearts unfold like flowers before thee, -[620.16 --> 623.64] open to the Son of God. -[624.10 --> 627.76] Melt the clouds of sin and sadness, -[627.76 --> 631.76] drive the hurt of doubt away. -[632.28 --> 635.76] Giver of immortal gladness, -[636.38 --> 640.56] fill us with the light of day. -[643.28 --> 647.32] All thy works of joy surround me, -[647.38 --> 650.94] red and blend with fire and praise. -[650.94 --> 655.40] stars and angels sing around me, -[655.40 --> 659.04] center of unbroken ways. -[659.04 --> 661.42] Field and forest, -[661.56 --> 663.18] grave and mountain, -[663.56 --> 665.50] flowing meadows, -[665.64 --> 667.12] flashing sea. -[667.56 --> 671.24] Saves in burn and flowing fountain, -[671.64 --> 675.26] call us to rejoice in thee. -[675.26 --> 682.40] Thou art giving and forgiving, -[682.40 --> 684.56] ever blessing, -[684.56 --> 686.50] ever blessed. -[686.94 --> 690.80] Wellspring of the joy of living, -[691.06 --> 694.56] ocean rent of happy rest. -[695.02 --> 696.72] Thou our Father, -[697.06 --> 698.66] Christ our Father, -[699.04 --> 702.60] all who live in love are thine. -[702.60 --> 706.86] teach us how to love each other, -[706.86 --> 710.78] and lift us to the joy we want. -[710.78 --> 734.84] A thousand generations, -[736.12 --> 738.40] falling down in worship, -[738.40 --> 743.66] sing the song of ages to the Lamb. -[745.66 --> 749.20] And all who've gone before us, -[749.20 --> 752.20] and all who will believe, -[753.20 --> 757.24] sing the song of ages to the Lamb. -[759.24 --> 762.64] Your name is the highest, -[763.02 --> 765.76] your name is the greatest, -[765.76 --> 771.34] your name stands above it all. -[771.34 --> 775.88] All thrones and dominions, -[776.06 --> 778.72] all powers and positions, -[778.72 --> 783.64] your name stands above it all. -[784.02 --> 786.42] When the angels cry, -[786.42 --> 789.14] Holy, -[789.14 --> 791.42] full م education, -[793.66 --> 795.54] Holy, -[796.34 --> 799.68] you anak mebi. -[799.72 --> 800.88] Holy, -[802.56 --> 805.28] holy forever, -[807.46 --> 812.74] and if you've been forgiven, -[812.74 --> 815.74] And if you've been redeemed -[816.52 --> 820.74] Sing the song forever to the Lamb -[821.26 --> 825.52] And if you walk in freedom -[825.52 --> 829.08] And if you bear His name -[829.08 --> 833.82] Sing the song forever to the Lamb -[833.82 --> 839.24] Sing the song forever and Amen -[839.24 --> 843.10] And the angels cry -[843.10 --> 849.36] Holy, all creation cries -[849.36 --> 855.58] Holy, you are lifted high -[855.58 --> 861.50] Holy, holy forever -[861.50 --> 867.56] In your people sing -[867.56 --> 873.42] Holy to the King of kings -[873.42 --> 879.78] Holy, you will always be -[879.78 --> 885.60] Holy, holy forever -[885.60 --> 893.46] Your name is the highest -[893.46 --> 896.46] Your name is the greatest -[896.46 --> 901.46] Your name stand above all -[901.46 --> 905.84] All thrones and dominions -[905.84 --> 908.34] All powers and positions -[908.34 --> 910.20] Your name is the highest -[910.20 --> 912.20] Your name is the highest -[912.20 --> 916.20] And the angels cry -[916.20 --> 921.64] Holy, all creation cries -[921.64 --> 927.20] Holy, you are lifted high -[927.20 --> 933.20] Holy, holy forever -[933.20 --> 943.06] Holy, holy forever -[943.06 --> 946.06] Holy, holy forever -[946.06 --> 950.06] Holy, you will always be -[950.06 --> 956.06] Holy, holy forever -[956.06 --> 956.92] Holy, holy forever -[956.92 --> 961.92] You will always be -[961.92 --> 963.92] Holy, holy forever -[963.92 --> 968.92] Holy, holy forever -[968.92 --> 972.92] Holy, holy forever -[972.92 --> 974.26] I invite you to be seated -[974.26 --> 976.12] Holy, holy forever -[976.12 --> 978.12] Holy, holy forever -[978.12 --> 979.12] Please pray with me -[979.12 --> 985.16] As you have led us in days past -[985.16 --> 988.38] So guide us now and always -[988.38 --> 992.60] That our hearts may learn to choose your will -[992.60 --> 996.12] And our new resolve be strengthened -[996.12 --> 999.62] Help us to face the future with confidence -[999.62 --> 1005.14] Knowing that you have guided and led your people through the eons past -[1005.14 --> 1008.76] And knowing also that you are a personal God -[1008.76 --> 1013.52] Concerned not just with the mighty forces of wind and weather -[1013.52 --> 1016.62] And of the destiny and the fate of nations -[1016.62 --> 1021.88] But also with the joys and sorrows that characterize our lives -[1021.88 --> 1026.20] You have filled us with the light of your word -[1026.20 --> 1028.18] Made flesh in Jesus Christ -[1028.18 --> 1032.20] That the light of faith shine in all that we do -[1032.20 --> 1036.38] That the one who is from everlasting to everlasting -[1036.38 --> 1040.94] Yet who was born among us and lived among us -[1040.94 --> 1044.26] May continue to inspire the thoughts of our hearts -[1044.26 --> 1046.78] And the actions of our lives -[1058.18 --> 1066.52] Light of the world -[1066.52 --> 1070.04] You step down into darkness -[1070.04 --> 1074.68] Open my eyes, let me see -[1074.68 --> 1082.18] Beauty that made in His heart adore you -[1082.18 --> 1086.74] Hope of a life spent with you -[1086.74 --> 1092.48] So here I am to worship -[1092.48 --> 1095.90] Here I am to bow down -[1095.90 --> 1101.50] Here I am to say that you're my God -[1101.50 --> 1104.70] You're altogether lovely -[1104.70 --> 1107.80] Altogether worthy -[1107.80 --> 1112.74] Altogether wonderful to me -[1112.74 --> 1120.94] King of all things -[1120.94 --> 1124.14] Oh so highly exalted -[1124.14 --> 1128.74] Glorious in heaven above -[1128.74 --> 1134.20] Lovely you came to the earth -[1134.20 --> 1135.80] You created -[1135.80 --> 1136.54] All for love's sake -[1136.54 --> 1140.54] All for love's sake became whole -[1140.54 --> 1146.28] So here I am to worship -[1146.28 --> 1147.28] Here I am to worship -[1147.28 --> 1149.28] Here I am to bow down -[1149.28 --> 1154.50] Here I am to say that you're my God -[1154.50 --> 1155.50] You're altogether lovely -[1155.50 --> 1157.50] You're altogether lovely -[1157.50 --> 1159.50] Altogether worthy -[1159.50 --> 1165.50] Altogether wonderful to me -[1165.50 --> 1169.50] And I'll never know -[1169.50 --> 1172.50] How much it calls -[1172.50 --> 1175.24] To see my sin -[1175.24 --> 1176.24] Upon that cross -[1176.24 --> 1178.24] Upon that cross -[1178.24 --> 1180.98] In the letter door -[1180.98 --> 1182.24] How much it calls -[1182.24 --> 1183.24] How much it calls -[1183.24 --> 1184.24] To see my sin -[1184.24 --> 1186.24] Upon that cross -[1186.24 --> 1187.24] To see my sin -[1187.24 --> 1188.24] Upon that cross -[1188.24 --> 1192.24] Here I am to worship -[1192.24 --> 1196.24] Here I am to bow down -[1196.24 --> 1203.24] Here I am to say that you're my God -[1203.24 --> 1209.24] You're altogether lovely -[1209.24 --> 1211.24] Altogether worthy -[1211.24 --> 1214.24] Altogether wonderful to me -[1214.24 --> 1217.24] So here I am to worship -[1217.24 --> 1220.24] Here I am to bow down -[1220.24 --> 1225.24] Here I am to say that ты're my God -[1225.24 --> 1237.12] You're altogether lovely, altogether worthy, altogether wonderful to me. -[1245.30 --> 1247.30] Let's continue our prayer. -[1249.60 --> 1253.82] Father, bless especially this day those who are in need. -[1253.82 --> 1262.26] The people we do not know whose hope for the future is not buoyed by the experience of blessings in the past. -[1262.72 --> 1270.50] Who have not known healing or faith or prosperity and who have no hope. -[1271.58 --> 1279.20] You have been our God in ages past and we know that you will continue to be our God in years to come. -[1280.04 --> 1280.30] Amen. -[1280.30 --> 1283.38] Why don't we rise as we sing these last songs. -[1283.82 --> 1284.68] Amen. -[1284.68 --> 1284.76] Amen. -[1284.76 --> 1299.00] I love you, Lord. -[1300.78 --> 1304.36] Oh, your mercy never fails me. -[1305.54 --> 1310.72] All my days, you have held in your hands. -[1310.72 --> 1323.72] From the moment that I wake up, till I lay my head, I will sing of your goodness, O God. -[1326.34 --> 1330.50] All my life, you have been faithful. -[1332.84 --> 1338.36] All my life, you have been so, so good. -[1338.36 --> 1349.32] With every breath that I am able, I will sing of the goodness of God. -[1350.56 --> 1357.26] Your voice, you will lead me through fire. -[1358.46 --> 1363.70] Your darkest night, you are close like no other. -[1363.70 --> 1366.90] I love you as a father. -[1368.12 --> 1370.92] I know you as a friend. -[1371.72 --> 1376.50] And I will sing to the goodness of God. -[1376.50 --> 1382.96] All my life, you have been faithful. -[1382.96 --> 1390.64] All my life, you have been so, so good. -[1390.64 --> 1401.70] With every breath that I am able, I will sing of the goodness of God. -[1401.70 --> 1409.16] Your goodness is running after me. -[1410.16 --> 1415.50] Your goodness is running after me. -[1415.50 --> 1419.34] With my life laid down, I surrender now. -[1419.34 --> 1421.12] I give you everything. -[1422.84 --> 1425.68] Your goodness is running after me. -[1425.68 --> 1427.50] It's running after me. -[1427.50 --> 1428.50] Your goodness is running after me. -[1428.50 --> 1429.50] Your goodness is running after me. -[1429.50 --> 1434.50] Your goodness is running after me. -[1434.50 --> 1439.50] Your goodness is running after me. -[1439.50 --> 1443.82] If my life laid down, I surrender now. -[1443.82 --> 1445.82] I give you everything. -[1445.82 --> 1447.82] Your goodness is running after me. -[1447.82 --> 1449.82] Your goodness is running after me. -[1449.82 --> 1452.82] Your goodness is running after me. -[1452.82 --> 1454.44] Your goodness is running after me. -[1458.44 --> 1462.30] All my life, you have been faithful. -[1462.30 --> 1469.20] And all my life, you have been so, so good. -[1469.32 --> 1480.56] With every breath that I am able, I will sing of the goodness of God. -[1480.56 --> 1487.30] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1487.30 --> 1515.86] Lord, I come, I confess -[1515.86 --> 1522.88] Bowing here, I find my rest -[1522.88 --> 1529.72] Without you, I fall apart -[1529.72 --> 1537.36] You're the one that guides my heart -[1537.36 --> 1547.52] Lord, I need you, oh, I need you -[1547.52 --> 1553.80] Every hour I need you -[1553.80 --> 1559.94] My one defense, my righteousness -[1559.94 --> 1565.76] Oh God, how I need you -[1565.76 --> 1571.90] Where sin runs deep -[1571.90 --> 1575.72] Your grace is more -[1575.72 --> 1578.74] Where grace is found -[1578.74 --> 1582.74] It's where you are -[1582.74 --> 1585.68] Where you are -[1585.68 --> 1588.74] Lord, I am free -[1588.74 --> 1590.74] Holiness -[1590.74 --> 1594.74] It's Christ in me -[1594.74 --> 1597.74] Where you are -[1597.74 --> 1600.74] Lord, I am free -[1601.60 --> 1602.74] Holiness -[1603.28 --> 1607.74] It's Christ in me -[1607.74 --> 1613.86] Lord, I need you -[1613.86 --> 1617.96] Oh, I need you -[1617.96 --> 1624.10] Every hour I need you -[1624.10 --> 1627.12] My one defense -[1627.12 --> 1630.04] My righteousness -[1630.04 --> 1636.16] Oh God, how I need you -[1636.16 --> 1641.04] Teach my song to rise to you -[1641.04 --> 1647.16] When temptation comes my way -[1647.16 --> 1652.04] When I cannot stand, I'll fall on you -[1652.04 --> 1656.20] Jesus, you're my hope -[1656.20 --> 1662.04] When I cannot stand, I'll fall on you -[1662.04 --> 1668.04] Jesus, you're my hope and stay -[1668.04 --> 1674.16] Lord, I need you -[1674.16 --> 1676.16] Lord, I need you -[1676.16 --> 1678.16] Oh, I need you -[1678.16 --> 1684.48] Every hour I need you -[1684.48 --> 1687.48] My one defense -[1687.48 --> 1690.16] My righteousness -[1690.16 --> 1695.28] Oh God, how I need you -[1695.28 --> 1696.30] Lord, I need you -[1696.30 --> 1698.22] Lord, I need you -[1698.22 --> 1699.26] Lord, I need you -[1699.26 --> 1703.20] Oh, I need you -[1703.20 --> 1709.20] Every hour I need you -[1709.20 --> 1712.44] My one defense -[1712.44 --> 1713.22] My one defense -[1713.22 --> 1715.38] My righteousness -[1715.38 --> 1721.30] Oh God, how I need you -[1721.30 --> 1725.30] My one defense -[1725.30 --> 1726.30] My one defense -[1726.30 --> 1728.30] My righteousness -[1728.30 --> 1735.30] Oh God, how I need you -[1735.30 --> 1738.56] I invite you to be seated -[1738.56 --> 1748.94] Good morning, my name's Mike -[1748.94 --> 1750.76] And I'm a deacon at the church here -[1750.76 --> 1752.48] And we have a chance now -[1752.48 --> 1754.22] To give of our financial blessings -[1754.22 --> 1755.10] And to give back -[1755.10 --> 1756.26] What God has given to us -[1756.26 --> 1757.88] So there's two offerings -[1757.88 --> 1759.18] One for the ministries -[1759.18 --> 1759.90] Of Langley Manual -[1759.90 --> 1760.60] Goes to the budget -[1760.60 --> 1761.76] And all the other functions -[1761.76 --> 1762.72] That happen here at the church -[1762.72 --> 1764.46] And the other part of the budget -[1764.46 --> 1765.78] Or the offering, sorry -[1765.78 --> 1767.40] Is for the benevolence fund -[1767.40 --> 1769.18] So anything unmarked -[1769.18 --> 1769.98] That goes in the bag -[1769.98 --> 1771.44] Will go towards the benevolence fund -[1771.44 --> 1772.66] And it's a fund -[1772.66 --> 1774.52] That the deacons make use of -[1774.52 --> 1775.82] To help meet the needs -[1775.82 --> 1777.56] Of just special needs -[1777.56 --> 1778.70] Within our own church family -[1778.70 --> 1780.58] And from the community -[1780.58 --> 1781.48] And outside of the family -[1781.48 --> 1783.32] And we've definitely used that fund -[1783.32 --> 1784.14] Quite a bit this year -[1784.14 --> 1785.36] So thank you so much -[1785.36 --> 1786.90] For as a family -[1786.90 --> 1787.80] Bringing that fund -[1787.80 --> 1789.04] Back up to a healthy spot -[1789.04 --> 1790.18] So we can continue -[1790.18 --> 1791.16] Helping more and more people -[1791.16 --> 1791.98] Thank you -[1791.98 --> 1803.80] Beautiful Lord -[1803.80 --> 1805.52] Wonderful Savior -[1805.52 --> 1819.46] Wonderful Savior -[1819.46 --> 1822.20] I know for sure -[1822.20 --> 1827.70] All of my days are held in your hands -[1827.70 --> 1834.58] Wrapped into your perfect plan -[1834.58 --> 1841.46] You gently call me into your presence -[1841.46 --> 1843.86] Guiding me by -[1843.86 --> 1845.74] Your Holy Spirit -[1845.74 --> 1846.38] Your Holy Spirit -[1846.38 --> 1849.12] Teach me dear Lord -[1849.12 --> 1851.92] To blow up my mind -[1851.92 --> 1856.78] Through your eyes -[1856.78 --> 1859.60] I'm captured by -[1859.60 --> 1862.24] Your holy healing -[1862.24 --> 1864.90] Set me apart -[1864.90 --> 1870.06] I know you're drawing me to yourself -[1870.06 --> 1872.72] Lead me Lord -[1872.72 --> 1874.14] I pray -[1874.14 --> 1880.46] Take me -[1880.46 --> 1883.02] Hold me -[1883.02 --> 1885.56] Use me -[1885.56 --> 1887.84] Fill me -[1887.84 --> 1890.62] I give my life -[1890.62 --> 1894.72] To the Father's hand -[1894.72 --> 1900.26] Call me -[1900.26 --> 1903.08] Guide me -[1903.08 --> 1904.62] Lead me -[1904.62 --> 1907.80] Walk beside me -[1907.80 --> 1910.62] I give my life -[1910.62 --> 1914.34] To the Father's hand -[1914.34 --> 1920.38] Beautiful Lord -[1920.38 --> 1922.78] Wonderful Savior -[1922.78 --> 1925.40] I know for sure -[1925.40 --> 1930.50] All of my days are held in your hands -[1930.50 --> 1937.04] Back into your perfect plan -[1937.04 --> 1942.80] You gently call me into your presence -[1942.80 --> 1945.04] Guiding you -[1945.04 --> 1947.28] Your Holy Spirit -[1947.28 --> 1949.84] Teach me dear Lord -[1949.84 --> 1952.58] To blow up my light -[1952.58 --> 1957.32] Through your eyes -[1957.32 --> 1959.42] I'm captured by -[1959.42 --> 1961.78] Your holy calling -[1962.34 --> 1963.78] Set me apart -[1964.44 --> 1968.78] I know you're drawing me to yourself -[1969.46 --> 1971.90] Lead me Lord -[1971.90 --> 1973.90] I pray. -[1976.96 --> 1992.90] Take me, hold me, use me, fill me, I give my life to the Father's hand. -[1992.90 --> 2012.90] Call me, guide me, lead me, walk beside me, I give my life to the Father's hand. -[2012.90 --> 2021.90] Beautiful Lord, wonderful Savior, I know for sure. -[2021.90 --> 2034.90] All of my days are held in your hand, crafted into your perfect plan. -[2034.90 --> 2056.90] I would love to invite any preschool, three-year-olds to preschool age, if any of you are brave enough to come forward and hang out with me up here, I'd love for you to come forward right now. -[2056.90 --> 2064.90] Here we go, thanks Malachi, there we go, hey. -[2064.90 --> 2068.90] Hi, it's good to see you, how are you guys doing? -[2068.90 --> 2070.90] Good, you guys are doing well? -[2070.90 --> 2072.90] Did you have a good Christmas break? -[2072.90 --> 2076.90] Yeah? Oh, here comes a couple more, oh, we're filtering in, this is great. -[2076.90 --> 2079.90] What did you guys all do for Christmas this year? -[2079.90 --> 2082.90] Stay home? -[2082.90 --> 2084.90] You did? -[2084.90 --> 2085.90] Yeah? -[2085.90 --> 2088.90] Did you guys, were you in church on Christmas Day? -[2088.90 --> 2090.90] I saw some of you here. -[2090.90 --> 2091.90] That was exciting. -[2091.90 --> 2093.90] Now, I usually have a friend with me up here. -[2093.90 --> 2095.90] Who do I usually have up here with me? -[2095.90 --> 2096.90] Hank! -[2096.90 --> 2097.90] Yeah. -[2097.90 --> 2099.90] Hank the Hound, where do you think he is? -[2099.90 --> 2100.90] A lion. -[2100.90 --> 2101.90] No, he's not. -[2101.90 --> 2103.90] Sadly, he's not here today. -[2103.90 --> 2104.90] He's somewhere else today. -[2104.90 --> 2106.90] Where do you think he could have gone? -[2106.90 --> 2107.90] Hank? -[2107.90 --> 2108.90] France? -[2108.90 --> 2109.90] Sure, we'll work that in next time. -[2110.90 --> 2113.90] We are going to go to children's worship time now, okay? -[2113.90 --> 2117.90] And we'll hear all about Hank's trip to France next time. -[2118.90 --> 2121.90] But before we head to children's worship time, let's pray. -[2121.90 --> 2126.90] And then if you are three years old to in preschool, we've got children's worship time for you in the back, okay? -[2126.90 --> 2127.90] You can follow me. -[2127.90 --> 2128.90] But let's pray right now, alright? -[2128.90 --> 2133.90] Dear God, thank you so much that we could be in church today, this last day of 2023. -[2133.90 --> 2143.90] And we pray, God, as some of us go off to children's worship time and others of us stay here in church and listen to Pastor Chris, that you will teach us more about what it means to follow you in this world. -[2143.90 --> 2144.90] And we pray this in your name. -[2144.90 --> 2145.90] Amen. -[2145.90 --> 2146.90] Amen. -[2146.90 --> 2148.90] Okay, we're still going to do the children's blessing, okay? -[2148.90 --> 2150.90] So, everybody stand up. -[2150.90 --> 2154.90] Alright, and we're going to say together, the Lord be with you, okay? -[2154.90 --> 2155.90] Are you ready? -[2155.90 --> 2156.90] We're going to say it together now. -[2156.90 --> 2158.90] The Lord be with you. -[2158.90 --> 2160.90] And also with you. -[2160.90 --> 2161.90] God bless you. -[2161.90 --> 2162.90] Amen. -[2190.90 --> 2193.92] Good morning. I'm Steve. I'm an elder here. -[2194.52 --> 2196.98] And I've got a couple quick announcements before I lead you in prayer. -[2197.94 --> 2200.76] First is, I know we just passed around the collection plate, -[2200.88 --> 2203.08] but we still have 13 and a half hours left in this year. -[2203.32 --> 2207.22] So online giving is still open until 11.59. -[2207.54 --> 2209.98] So we've got lots of good support this year, -[2210.12 --> 2212.72] but let's try to finish the year as strong as we can. -[2212.88 --> 2215.36] So that would be great if anyone can contribute. -[2216.14 --> 2219.52] And also thanks for everyone that came out to the church skate yesterday. -[2219.52 --> 2222.14] That was great to see so many people out there. A lot of fun. -[2223.06 --> 2223.74] Thank you. -[2226.32 --> 2227.00] Let's pray. -[2230.36 --> 2233.94] Dear Heavenly Father, as we gather on this last day of the year, -[2234.16 --> 2237.46] we come before you with our hearts of gratitude for a year that has passed -[2237.46 --> 2239.74] and hopeful for the one ahead. -[2240.30 --> 2242.92] We also acknowledge the challenges of the past year. -[2243.14 --> 2246.02] We lift our hearts to you, seeking your presence and guidance -[2246.02 --> 2249.42] as we reflect on the trials many of us have faced. -[2250.18 --> 2253.44] As we start a new year, we ask for your blessing on our personal journeys. -[2253.78 --> 2256.36] Grant us strength to face challenges with resilience, -[2256.96 --> 2258.46] the courage to stand up for justice, -[2258.66 --> 2260.92] and the compassion to love one another unconditionally. -[2261.56 --> 2264.78] May this new year bring about a spirit of renewal and transformation. -[2264.78 --> 2270.66] In the midst of our celebrations, we humbly lift up conflicts that have troubled our world. -[2270.66 --> 2275.92] We pray for peace in regions such as Israel and Gaza and Ukraine and Russia, -[2276.12 --> 2277.88] where, torn by strife, -[2278.44 --> 2282.44] asking for your guiding hand to lead nations towards understanding and reconciliation. -[2282.44 --> 2289.28] Lord, we bring before you many divided communities around and nations around the world. -[2289.28 --> 2292.40] Grant us the wisdom to see beyond our differences, -[2292.70 --> 2296.32] to embrace the common humanity that unites us all. -[2296.58 --> 2300.18] May our spirit of unity prevail, fostering compassion and empathy -[2300.18 --> 2302.80] in the face of many strongly differing opinions. -[2302.80 --> 2309.90] Creator, Lord, we seek your guidance and stewarding the earth with care and responsibility. -[2310.54 --> 2314.02] Inspire us to be mindful custodians of our precious earth -[2314.02 --> 2318.66] and recognizing the interconnectedness of all living things. -[2319.24 --> 2323.32] May our actions reflect a commitment to preserving the beauty and balance of your creation. -[2323.32 --> 2327.16] We come today before you with gratitude and joy -[2327.16 --> 2330.94] and thank you and praise you for the precious gift of new life. -[2331.40 --> 2333.56] We stand in the awe of the miracle of birth, -[2334.00 --> 2338.08] another testament to your divine design and beauty of creation. -[2339.02 --> 2341.16] We celebrate with Bert and Wickham Mose -[2341.16 --> 2345.48] as they welcomed a new grandson, Simon, from their daughter, Fiona, and son, Joel. -[2345.80 --> 2347.82] We thank you for this new addition to their family. -[2349.16 --> 2352.94] We lift up to those who are facing difficulties and hardships. -[2353.32 --> 2355.56] Asking for your comfort and healing touch. -[2356.18 --> 2358.24] Let your light shine upon those in darkness -[2358.24 --> 2360.62] and may your peace fill the hearts of those who are troubled. -[2361.64 --> 2363.56] We lift up the individuals and families -[2363.56 --> 2365.72] who are mourning the recent loss of their loved ones. -[2366.94 --> 2368.22] Be their refuge and strength. -[2368.86 --> 2371.08] In particular, we think of the Visser and Hummelman families -[2371.08 --> 2373.14] as they both had funerals of loved ones, -[2373.66 --> 2375.88] Cy and Visser and Anne Hummelman, this past week. -[2376.32 --> 2378.88] We find hope in the assurance they are now in your presence, -[2379.04 --> 2381.40] experiencing the fullness of your love and glory. -[2381.40 --> 2386.22] Grant strength to the grieving to face the difficult days ahead. -[2386.42 --> 2388.98] Surround them with a community of support, friends, and family -[2388.98 --> 2391.06] who can offer comfort and understanding. -[2391.64 --> 2395.66] May your Holy Spirit be the comforter and present in their midst -[2395.66 --> 2398.08] and bringing a sense of your abiding peace. -[2398.08 --> 2403.52] Thank you, Lord, for the new members that have joined our congregation this past year. -[2404.36 --> 2406.76] We recognize that as by your grace and guidance, -[2406.82 --> 2408.54] they have become part of our church family -[2408.54 --> 2410.60] and we give thanks for their commitment and dedication. -[2411.30 --> 2414.86] In the year ahead, grant us wisdom to continue to welcome and embrace our community -[2414.86 --> 2418.00] with open hearts, warmth, acceptance, and genuine Christian fellowship. -[2418.00 --> 2422.74] We thank you for Chris, for Kevin, and Josh and their roles in our congregation. -[2423.26 --> 2426.84] We are grateful for their willingness to share their gifts and talents -[2426.84 --> 2428.78] and insights with here at Emmanuel. -[2429.06 --> 2433.50] We ask that you grant them wisdom as they navigate the challenges of ministry. -[2434.24 --> 2436.24] May they be filled with discernment and understanding, -[2436.48 --> 2438.98] relying on the Holy Spirit for guidance in every decision. -[2439.74 --> 2441.20] Strengthen them in times of weakness -[2441.20 --> 2444.24] and let them find rest in your presence -[2444.24 --> 2447.52] when their demands of their calling become overwhelming. -[2448.54 --> 2451.80] And be with Pastor Chris as he leads us this morning. -[2452.00 --> 2453.50] Bless him in his message. -[2454.18 --> 2456.30] We pray this all in the name of Jesus Christ, -[2456.58 --> 2458.40] your Son and our Lord and Savior. -[2458.40 --> 2459.12] Amen. -[2471.20 --> 2482.16] On this last Sunday of the year, -[2482.98 --> 2488.14] it is a pattern of the Christian church to look back, -[2488.28 --> 2490.36] even as we look forward, -[2490.90 --> 2495.34] to look back at the places where we've seen God at work clearly, -[2495.34 --> 2499.48] to look forward, anticipating God's continued work, -[2499.48 --> 2503.90] and also to do that in a community together, -[2504.10 --> 2506.48] recognizing that for some of us, -[2506.56 --> 2507.56] when we look back, -[2508.08 --> 2511.84] it's really hard to see if God has been there -[2511.84 --> 2514.10] or how God has been there. -[2514.46 --> 2516.26] And then with that, when we look forward, -[2516.84 --> 2518.22] a lot of us are wondering, -[2519.00 --> 2521.10] where is God going to show up? -[2521.18 --> 2523.02] Is God going to show up? -[2523.78 --> 2527.84] And so I believe it's important for us -[2527.84 --> 2529.04] as we do that work, -[2529.86 --> 2531.16] as even culturally, -[2531.34 --> 2534.24] as we do that kind of thing this time of year, -[2534.54 --> 2538.92] we do that grounded in the truth of the Scriptures, -[2539.46 --> 2541.20] grounded in the truth of who God is -[2541.20 --> 2543.82] and how he has spoken to us. -[2543.82 --> 2545.00] And so this morning, -[2545.20 --> 2549.10] for our last sermon of the year, -[2549.16 --> 2552.14] we're going to look at the words of the prophet Jeremiah. -[2552.56 --> 2554.90] We're going to read from Jeremiah 23, -[2555.42 --> 2557.12] just two verses this morning. -[2557.84 --> 2560.26] We're going to read verses 23 and 24. -[2561.06 --> 2562.70] If you have a Bible with you, -[2562.88 --> 2564.16] I encourage you to have that open -[2564.16 --> 2565.16] or to turn that on -[2565.16 --> 2567.60] and to find the text that we're going to read -[2567.60 --> 2569.50] and keep that there in front of you -[2569.50 --> 2570.36] as we will, of course, -[2570.42 --> 2572.14] be referring back to the text. -[2572.24 --> 2573.08] It will be on the screen -[2573.08 --> 2574.24] the first time we go through. -[2574.54 --> 2576.36] Let me read this with you. -[2577.52 --> 2579.94] The Word of God from Jeremiah 23, -[2580.16 --> 2581.16] starting at verse 23. -[2581.16 --> 2587.48] Am I only a God nearby, declares the Lord, -[2587.54 --> 2589.16] and not a God far away? -[2590.70 --> 2593.06] Who can hide in secret places -[2593.06 --> 2595.62] so that I cannot see them, declares the Lord? -[2596.14 --> 2600.60] Do I not fill heaven and earth, declares the Lord? -[2600.60 --> 2603.06] This is the Word of the Lord. -[2603.06 --> 2608.30] And so as we look back -[2608.30 --> 2609.98] and as we anticipate forward, -[2610.24 --> 2613.80] it is natural and normal for us -[2613.80 --> 2614.70] in this moment -[2614.70 --> 2617.82] to kind of assess, right? -[2617.86 --> 2620.12] What kind of a year was it? -[2620.86 --> 2622.02] Maybe for some of you, -[2622.10 --> 2625.50] it's a year that you are ready to leave behind, right? -[2625.52 --> 2627.16] We're going to move on to something better, -[2627.16 --> 2629.60] or at least we're going to move on to something else, -[2629.60 --> 2631.58] because whatever 2023 was, -[2631.86 --> 2634.20] I sure hope that's not what 2024 brings. -[2637.70 --> 2642.04] Or maybe it's a year that you are celebrating -[2642.04 --> 2643.90] and that you will remember -[2643.90 --> 2645.54] for the rest of your life. -[2646.38 --> 2648.68] Most likely for most of us here, -[2648.76 --> 2650.78] it's somewhere in between, -[2650.98 --> 2653.34] or it's a year that had moments of one -[2653.34 --> 2655.38] and moments of the other. -[2656.76 --> 2659.36] Recently, I was driving in my car -[2659.36 --> 2661.24] and I was listening to a radio program. -[2661.94 --> 2663.60] For those of you under 30, -[2664.46 --> 2666.38] radios are those things in cars -[2666.38 --> 2668.92] that old people listen to -[2668.92 --> 2670.04] when they don't have car play. -[2672.28 --> 2674.96] And yes, I realize I just officially put myself -[2674.96 --> 2676.10] in the old people category. -[2677.30 --> 2679.70] But I was listening to a program on the radio -[2679.70 --> 2683.52] and the host was going around downtown, -[2683.64 --> 2684.76] it might even have been Vancouver, -[2684.98 --> 2687.40] downtown asking the question, -[2687.40 --> 2690.86] are you optimistic or are you pessimistic -[2690.86 --> 2692.28] about the year ahead? -[2694.28 --> 2696.30] And what was abundantly clear -[2696.30 --> 2698.14] as people gave answer to that question -[2698.14 --> 2701.40] was that the kind of year you just had -[2701.40 --> 2704.94] plays a role in the kind of year -[2704.94 --> 2706.40] you think you will have. -[2706.40 --> 2711.38] And so success tends to suggest success. -[2712.20 --> 2715.04] Hardship tends to suggest hardship. -[2716.04 --> 2718.38] But what was hardest to hear -[2718.38 --> 2722.12] was the few people who talked with apathy -[2722.12 --> 2724.24] or hopelessness. -[2724.78 --> 2726.54] And those two things are different, right? -[2726.60 --> 2729.60] But with apathy that I've just stopped caring, -[2730.22 --> 2730.90] come what may, -[2731.30 --> 2733.44] or hopelessness saying it's always, -[2733.44 --> 2736.12] God is only ever going to be this way. -[2737.74 --> 2739.80] And as I was reflecting on that -[2739.80 --> 2741.28] and on their answers and listening, -[2742.08 --> 2743.70] it struck me, -[2744.28 --> 2746.50] whether pessimistic or optimistic, -[2746.80 --> 2748.58] whether apathetic or engaged, -[2748.92 --> 2751.76] about the old year and into the new year, -[2752.90 --> 2756.40] what you think about God -[2756.40 --> 2758.78] or what you don't think about God -[2758.78 --> 2762.06] is going to change your perspective -[2762.06 --> 2763.76] in answering that question. -[2765.16 --> 2766.50] Now, of course, -[2766.60 --> 2768.80] you might say that if you believe in God, -[2768.88 --> 2770.34] you can always be optimistic -[2770.34 --> 2772.28] looking back and looking forward. -[2772.52 --> 2774.52] But honestly, -[2774.60 --> 2775.76] I don't think it's that simple. -[2776.54 --> 2777.98] And I don't think it's that easy. -[2778.86 --> 2780.16] And to be frank, -[2780.36 --> 2781.60] I'm just not going to stand here -[2781.60 --> 2782.84] and tell you how you ought to feel -[2782.84 --> 2785.00] about the kind of year that you've had. -[2785.00 --> 2787.30] Instead, though, -[2787.42 --> 2789.50] I do want us to talk about God. -[2790.68 --> 2790.88] Right? -[2790.96 --> 2792.44] God in the midst of that year, -[2792.54 --> 2793.66] whatever it might have been like. -[2793.72 --> 2795.00] God in the midst of trial -[2795.00 --> 2795.80] and hardship -[2795.80 --> 2796.42] and struggle -[2796.42 --> 2797.36] and danger. -[2797.52 --> 2798.76] God in the midst of blessing -[2798.76 --> 2799.52] and happiness -[2799.52 --> 2800.76] and celebration. -[2801.58 --> 2802.52] And what I hope -[2802.52 --> 2803.78] that we can see together -[2803.78 --> 2806.26] will be sort of under the theme -[2806.26 --> 2808.40] that when you understand -[2808.40 --> 2809.90] who God is, -[2810.90 --> 2812.72] you can better understand -[2812.72 --> 2815.02] where God is. -[2816.66 --> 2816.84] Right? -[2816.86 --> 2817.56] When you understand -[2817.56 --> 2818.48] who God is, -[2818.52 --> 2819.50] you can better understand -[2819.50 --> 2821.52] where God is. -[2821.56 --> 2822.52] And we're going to pull that out -[2822.52 --> 2824.28] of these two verses we read. -[2824.34 --> 2825.38] Now, there are only two verses -[2825.38 --> 2826.82] because these two verses -[2826.82 --> 2828.44] are jam-packed full -[2828.44 --> 2830.32] of meaning and theology, -[2830.32 --> 2831.78] of truth about who God is -[2831.78 --> 2833.46] and how God operates -[2833.46 --> 2834.04] in the world. -[2835.00 --> 2836.98] Now, these two short verses -[2836.98 --> 2839.36] contain three questions -[2839.36 --> 2841.44] that are grammatically marked out -[2841.44 --> 2842.62] for us with the statement -[2842.62 --> 2843.98] declares the Lord. -[2844.48 --> 2844.62] Right? -[2844.92 --> 2845.50] Question one, -[2845.62 --> 2847.38] am I only a God nearby -[2847.38 --> 2848.96] and not far away? -[2849.20 --> 2849.96] declares the Lord. -[2850.66 --> 2851.76] Can anyone hide -[2851.76 --> 2852.68] in secret places -[2852.68 --> 2854.86] so that I cannot see them? -[2854.98 --> 2855.88] declares the Lord. -[2856.62 --> 2858.58] Do I not fill heaven and earth? -[2858.88 --> 2860.22] declares the Lord. -[2861.80 --> 2862.84] Now, the first thing to see -[2862.84 --> 2864.24] to ground us in this -[2864.24 --> 2866.58] is that each of these questions -[2866.58 --> 2868.80] are sort of rhetorical questions -[2868.80 --> 2870.18] and they expect -[2870.18 --> 2871.72] a negative answer, right? -[2871.88 --> 2873.04] Or to put it positively, -[2873.36 --> 2876.20] of course God is near and far. -[2876.32 --> 2878.68] Of course no one can hide from God. -[2878.76 --> 2881.10] Of course God fills heaven and earth. -[2881.52 --> 2882.58] In a sense, -[2882.74 --> 2885.04] these questions reflect for us -[2885.04 --> 2887.80] the Lord's own incredulity -[2887.80 --> 2888.98] at the prophets -[2888.98 --> 2891.64] and the people who in Jerusalem -[2891.64 --> 2894.88] are leading others away -[2894.88 --> 2896.68] from this truth -[2896.68 --> 2897.58] of who God is. -[2898.76 --> 2899.64] As I read it, -[2899.68 --> 2900.44] it's almost like -[2900.44 --> 2902.68] you can hear God's exasperated tone. -[2904.32 --> 2905.86] There's one translation in the Bible, -[2906.02 --> 2907.50] it's called the NET translation -[2907.50 --> 2907.88] of the Bible -[2907.88 --> 2909.12] or the NET translation, -[2909.30 --> 2910.66] it's the New English translation. -[2911.42 --> 2912.54] It says it like this, -[2912.64 --> 2912.78] it's, -[2914.24 --> 2915.74] do you people think -[2915.74 --> 2917.58] that I am some local deity -[2917.58 --> 2919.46] and not the transcendent God? -[2919.94 --> 2920.98] Do you really think -[2920.98 --> 2922.30] anyone can hide himself -[2922.30 --> 2923.42] where I can't see him? -[2923.42 --> 2925.14] Do you not know -[2925.14 --> 2926.90] that I am everywhere? -[2929.00 --> 2930.52] So what's going on here? -[2930.58 --> 2931.76] What's God showing us here? -[2931.84 --> 2934.28] Why is God reacting this way? -[2934.36 --> 2935.34] And what are the people -[2935.34 --> 2937.38] around him saying? -[2939.30 --> 2940.46] So to do that, -[2940.68 --> 2941.60] just a little bit of background. -[2942.24 --> 2944.68] Jeremiah prophesies -[2944.68 --> 2946.34] and he writes here -[2946.34 --> 2949.28] in Jerusalem and in Judea -[2949.28 --> 2951.92] in the years leading up to -[2951.92 --> 2952.84] what we know -[2952.84 --> 2954.52] as the Babylonian captivity -[2954.52 --> 2956.30] and the period of exile. -[2957.44 --> 2957.84] Right? -[2957.92 --> 2959.02] So the Israelites have -[2959.02 --> 2961.96] forgotten God -[2961.96 --> 2962.54] and the ways -[2962.54 --> 2963.84] that he has called them to live -[2963.84 --> 2965.12] and as a result of that, -[2965.22 --> 2967.52] the armies of Nebuchadnezzar -[2967.52 --> 2968.18] march down -[2968.18 --> 2969.48] and they take the people captive -[2969.48 --> 2970.78] years before, -[2970.90 --> 2972.16] destroying the northern kingdom -[2972.16 --> 2973.86] and now carrying off -[2973.86 --> 2975.30] into captivity -[2975.30 --> 2977.06] a group of people -[2977.06 --> 2979.26] back to Babylon. -[2980.20 --> 2980.70] Now Jeremiah -[2980.70 --> 2982.06] at the time -[2982.06 --> 2984.68] is not a very popular prophet. -[2985.68 --> 2985.78] Right? -[2985.82 --> 2986.72] Especially after -[2986.72 --> 2987.90] that first group of people -[2987.90 --> 2988.84] have been taken away -[2988.84 --> 2989.92] because that proved -[2989.92 --> 2991.02] that Jeremiah was right -[2991.02 --> 2991.54] all along. -[2992.62 --> 2993.80] And because of that, -[2993.86 --> 2994.64] there's a group -[2994.64 --> 2995.92] of false prophets -[2995.92 --> 2996.98] or teachers -[2996.98 --> 2998.42] and lying prophets -[2998.42 --> 3000.70] that would give messages -[3000.70 --> 3001.30] that contradicted -[3001.84 --> 3002.68] Jeremiah's. -[3002.68 --> 3004.76] And they would tell people -[3004.76 --> 3006.08] that the future looked good. -[3006.86 --> 3007.12] Right? -[3007.16 --> 3007.76] It's peaceful. -[3007.94 --> 3008.72] It's prosperous. -[3009.48 --> 3009.62] Right? -[3009.74 --> 3011.26] Even as the armies -[3011.26 --> 3012.14] of Nebuchadnezzar -[3012.14 --> 3012.96] are marching down. -[3013.90 --> 3015.10] And where Jeremiah -[3015.10 --> 3016.48] preached a relatively -[3016.48 --> 3017.54] lengthy exile -[3017.54 --> 3018.68] of 70 years, -[3018.84 --> 3019.78] these other prophets -[3019.78 --> 3021.86] spoke of the imminent return -[3021.86 --> 3022.84] of all the people -[3022.84 --> 3023.52] and the property -[3023.52 --> 3024.60] that had been taken away. -[3026.14 --> 3028.02] To make an image of this, -[3028.26 --> 3029.26] Jeremiah makes -[3029.26 --> 3030.40] a wooden yoke -[3030.40 --> 3031.86] for himself to wear -[3031.86 --> 3032.88] as a sign. -[3033.00 --> 3034.58] A yoke is a farming instrument -[3034.58 --> 3036.38] that rests on the shoulders -[3036.38 --> 3037.66] of animals -[3037.66 --> 3038.60] to pull a plow -[3038.60 --> 3039.54] most likely -[3039.54 --> 3041.42] through the ground. -[3042.18 --> 3042.86] Jeremiah makes -[3042.86 --> 3043.94] a yoke for himself -[3043.94 --> 3044.66] to wear -[3044.66 --> 3045.50] as a sign -[3045.50 --> 3046.76] of the coming yoke, -[3046.94 --> 3047.38] the weight, -[3047.52 --> 3047.98] the burden, -[3048.14 --> 3049.76] the rule of Babylon. -[3050.64 --> 3052.22] And the false prophet, -[3052.40 --> 3053.02] Hananiah, -[3053.16 --> 3054.22] breaks that yoke -[3054.22 --> 3055.46] and says -[3055.46 --> 3056.08] that the Lord -[3056.08 --> 3056.62] would break -[3056.62 --> 3057.66] Nebuchadnezzar's yoke -[3057.66 --> 3058.66] within two years. -[3059.36 --> 3059.92] You can read this -[3059.92 --> 3060.68] in Jeremiah 28. -[3060.68 --> 3063.00] No matter how hard -[3063.00 --> 3063.94] Jeremiah tried, -[3064.42 --> 3065.60] no matter how dramatically -[3065.60 --> 3067.26] he preached his message, -[3067.60 --> 3068.74] many of the people -[3068.74 --> 3070.36] left in Jerusalem -[3070.36 --> 3071.52] resented him -[3071.52 --> 3072.96] and resisted the truth -[3072.96 --> 3073.96] of what he had to say -[3073.96 --> 3075.14] and they preferred -[3075.14 --> 3076.02] the teachings -[3076.02 --> 3077.20] of the false prophets. -[3078.32 --> 3079.08] They preferred -[3079.08 --> 3079.84] a message -[3079.84 --> 3080.64] of health -[3080.64 --> 3081.66] and wealth. -[3082.02 --> 3082.50] They preferred -[3082.50 --> 3083.08] a message -[3083.08 --> 3084.32] of ease -[3084.32 --> 3085.36] and of comfort, -[3085.54 --> 3086.54] of a quick judgment -[3086.54 --> 3087.40] and a get back -[3087.40 --> 3088.52] to prosperity. -[3088.52 --> 3089.72] the people -[3089.72 --> 3090.72] preferred messages -[3090.72 --> 3091.40] that made them -[3091.40 --> 3092.12] feel good -[3092.12 --> 3093.88] and not messages -[3093.88 --> 3095.16] that confronted them -[3095.16 --> 3096.14] with the truth -[3096.14 --> 3096.82] and the guilt -[3096.82 --> 3097.70] of their sin -[3097.70 --> 3098.42] in light of -[3098.42 --> 3099.52] who God is -[3099.52 --> 3100.28] and the consequences -[3100.28 --> 3101.42] of their disobedience -[3101.42 --> 3102.88] or their righteous wrath -[3102.88 --> 3104.06] of a holy God. -[3105.82 --> 3107.04] And to be honest, -[3107.26 --> 3108.16] I don't know -[3108.16 --> 3108.78] if anything really -[3108.78 --> 3109.38] has changed. -[3110.38 --> 3111.42] People still -[3111.42 --> 3112.16] prefer that. -[3113.10 --> 3113.44] And again, -[3113.58 --> 3114.42] to be completely -[3114.42 --> 3115.08] frank with you, -[3115.08 --> 3116.24] I get it. -[3117.66 --> 3118.58] Give me something -[3118.58 --> 3119.86] that makes me feel good. -[3121.00 --> 3121.56] Isn't that why -[3121.56 --> 3122.32] I come to church? -[3122.94 --> 3123.72] Tell me how to -[3123.72 --> 3124.72] be a better version -[3124.72 --> 3125.34] of myself. -[3126.70 --> 3127.54] Inspire me -[3127.54 --> 3128.50] to something -[3128.50 --> 3129.64] or comfort me. -[3131.06 --> 3133.22] How can I claim -[3133.22 --> 3134.78] the blessing of God -[3134.78 --> 3136.16] for a new year? -[3137.52 --> 3138.26] How do I get -[3138.26 --> 3139.18] God's prosperity -[3139.18 --> 3140.16] in my bank account? -[3140.92 --> 3141.94] Because that needs -[3141.94 --> 3142.36] some help. -[3142.36 --> 3145.24] How do I forget -[3145.24 --> 3146.64] what lies behind -[3146.64 --> 3147.84] and press on -[3147.84 --> 3149.28] towards the goal? -[3149.46 --> 3150.22] And the goal -[3150.22 --> 3150.96] is always -[3150.96 --> 3152.34] a better life -[3152.34 --> 3153.34] defined usually -[3153.34 --> 3154.32] as a richer life -[3154.32 --> 3156.16] or a fitter life, -[3156.28 --> 3157.68] an easier life. -[3160.30 --> 3161.56] But what about -[3161.56 --> 3164.36] what about -[3164.36 --> 3165.20] if life doesn't -[3165.20 --> 3166.20] get better -[3166.20 --> 3167.44] or you don't -[3167.44 --> 3167.92] get richer -[3167.92 --> 3168.54] or it doesn't -[3168.54 --> 3169.70] get any easier? -[3169.82 --> 3170.94] What if 2024 -[3170.94 --> 3171.18] 2024 -[3171.18 --> 3172.56] is the same -[3172.56 --> 3173.70] as 2023? -[3176.26 --> 3176.90] Now then, -[3176.98 --> 3177.74] the false prophets -[3177.74 --> 3178.34] will tell you -[3178.34 --> 3178.76] that you didn't -[3178.76 --> 3179.62] have enough faith -[3179.62 --> 3180.16] or that you didn't -[3180.16 --> 3181.06] do the right things, -[3181.24 --> 3181.96] you didn't check -[3181.96 --> 3182.68] the right boxes, -[3182.92 --> 3183.92] or some will use -[3183.92 --> 3184.52] the language of -[3184.52 --> 3185.30] you didn't claim -[3185.30 --> 3186.00] the promises -[3186.00 --> 3187.08] of the gospel, -[3187.22 --> 3187.94] you didn't claim -[3187.94 --> 3188.56] the blessings -[3188.56 --> 3189.26] of God. -[3189.26 --> 3189.30] God. -[3192.90 --> 3193.30] But, -[3194.34 --> 3196.40] listen carefully, -[3197.34 --> 3199.24] here's what happens -[3199.24 --> 3200.62] in our own -[3200.62 --> 3201.30] imaginations -[3201.30 --> 3202.20] and in our hearts -[3202.20 --> 3203.30] when we start -[3203.30 --> 3204.32] to listen to that -[3204.32 --> 3205.10] voice or those -[3205.10 --> 3205.42] voices, -[3205.56 --> 3205.94] when we start -[3205.94 --> 3206.42] to think -[3206.42 --> 3207.52] that way. -[3207.66 --> 3208.22] And remember, -[3208.36 --> 3209.22] we're talking about -[3209.22 --> 3210.54] our understanding -[3210.54 --> 3211.60] of who God is -[3211.60 --> 3212.46] and how that -[3212.46 --> 3213.66] shapes where we -[3213.66 --> 3214.26] can see God -[3214.26 --> 3214.96] at work in the world. -[3215.86 --> 3216.98] Because in thinking -[3216.98 --> 3217.90] this way, -[3218.88 --> 3219.58] in thinking -[3219.58 --> 3221.60] that we just -[3221.60 --> 3222.42] haven't had enough -[3222.42 --> 3222.68] faith, -[3222.76 --> 3223.14] that we didn't -[3223.14 --> 3224.00] do the right things, -[3224.08 --> 3224.38] that we didn't -[3224.38 --> 3225.18] claim the message -[3225.18 --> 3225.62] properly, -[3225.74 --> 3227.10] in thinking this way, -[3227.38 --> 3228.26] what we end up -[3228.26 --> 3228.98] doing is -[3228.98 --> 3230.96] redefining God. -[3232.02 --> 3232.68] We end up -[3232.68 --> 3233.62] reimagining -[3233.62 --> 3234.44] who God is -[3234.44 --> 3235.98] and we make -[3235.98 --> 3236.74] a God -[3236.74 --> 3237.98] on our own terms. -[3239.30 --> 3240.10] God becomes -[3240.10 --> 3240.98] someone he's not. -[3241.78 --> 3242.58] God becomes, -[3242.72 --> 3243.02] namely, -[3243.26 --> 3243.86] a debit -[3243.86 --> 3244.50] and credit -[3244.50 --> 3245.04] machine -[3245.04 --> 3245.96] that you keep -[3245.96 --> 3246.46] in your back -[3246.46 --> 3247.24] pocket in order -[3247.24 --> 3247.74] to get good -[3247.74 --> 3248.36] things from -[3248.36 --> 3249.46] when you put -[3249.46 --> 3250.52] the right thing -[3250.52 --> 3251.00] in. -[3252.14 --> 3252.28] Right? -[3252.38 --> 3252.82] God, -[3252.92 --> 3253.52] in this way, -[3253.58 --> 3254.58] becomes small -[3254.58 --> 3255.76] and he becomes -[3255.76 --> 3256.50] manageable. -[3257.56 --> 3258.02] And what I mean -[3258.02 --> 3258.38] by that is -[3258.38 --> 3259.10] that you are -[3259.10 --> 3259.80] trying to -[3259.80 --> 3260.62] manage God. -[3263.06 --> 3263.86] And this -[3263.86 --> 3265.22] God -[3265.22 --> 3267.22] just doesn't -[3267.22 --> 3268.14] know what's -[3268.14 --> 3268.82] going to happen. -[3269.96 --> 3270.10] Right? -[3270.14 --> 3270.28] Sure, -[3270.38 --> 3270.70] this God -[3270.70 --> 3271.80] has desires, -[3272.18 --> 3272.68] the things that -[3272.68 --> 3273.66] he wants for you -[3273.66 --> 3275.34] or it wants -[3275.34 --> 3275.86] for you, -[3275.94 --> 3276.12] right? -[3276.16 --> 3276.80] To bless you -[3276.80 --> 3277.42] and to prosper -[3277.42 --> 3277.66] you. -[3277.70 --> 3278.46] But when you -[3278.46 --> 3279.68] define God -[3279.68 --> 3280.48] this way, -[3280.90 --> 3281.42] things are -[3281.42 --> 3282.44] ultimately out -[3282.44 --> 3283.26] of his control -[3283.26 --> 3283.88] and they -[3283.88 --> 3284.70] ultimately rest -[3284.70 --> 3285.54] on what you -[3285.54 --> 3286.60] have to do -[3286.60 --> 3287.52] in order to -[3287.52 --> 3288.42] make God -[3288.42 --> 3289.16] respond in a -[3289.16 --> 3289.80] particular way. -[3291.04 --> 3291.88] And this -[3291.88 --> 3292.78] is exactly -[3292.78 --> 3293.96] how so many -[3293.96 --> 3295.00] people think -[3295.00 --> 3295.72] and treat -[3295.72 --> 3296.74] God in the -[3296.74 --> 3297.26] world today. -[3298.02 --> 3298.22] Right? -[3298.26 --> 3298.70] To the point -[3298.70 --> 3299.46] that in its -[3299.46 --> 3300.12] most extreme -[3300.12 --> 3300.56] forms, -[3300.70 --> 3301.18] we don't even -[3301.18 --> 3301.94] talk about God -[3301.94 --> 3302.26] anymore, -[3302.26 --> 3302.86] but we talk -[3302.86 --> 3303.50] generically -[3303.50 --> 3304.06] about the -[3304.06 --> 3304.62] universe. -[3305.34 --> 3305.78] We talk -[3305.78 --> 3306.44] about spiritual -[3306.44 --> 3306.94] energy. -[3307.70 --> 3307.96] And we talk -[3307.96 --> 3308.34] about putting -[3308.34 --> 3309.02] it out there -[3309.02 --> 3309.90] and hoping -[3309.90 --> 3310.28] that the -[3310.28 --> 3310.80] universe will -[3310.80 --> 3311.34] return it -[3311.34 --> 3311.70] to me -[3311.70 --> 3312.40] multiplied. -[3313.84 --> 3314.22] But the -[3314.22 --> 3315.04] definition of -[3315.04 --> 3315.46] God, -[3315.62 --> 3317.22] the recalibration -[3317.22 --> 3318.66] of human -[3318.66 --> 3320.14] above God -[3320.14 --> 3321.04] to define -[3321.04 --> 3321.90] him is -[3321.90 --> 3323.02] exactly what -[3323.02 --> 3323.98] Jeremiah is -[3323.98 --> 3324.86] reacting to -[3324.86 --> 3325.96] in his day. -[3326.22 --> 3326.66] And it's -[3326.66 --> 3327.70] exactly what -[3327.70 --> 3328.24] we need to -[3328.24 --> 3328.72] see and -[3328.72 --> 3329.40] remind ourselves -[3329.40 --> 3329.98] again for -[3329.98 --> 3330.98] our day. -[3332.44 --> 3332.62] Now, -[3332.64 --> 3332.96] in each -[3332.96 --> 3333.42] of these -[3333.42 --> 3333.90] three -[3333.90 --> 3334.82] questions, -[3335.52 --> 3336.26] there's an -[3336.26 --> 3337.00] aspect of -[3337.00 --> 3337.70] God that -[3337.70 --> 3338.34] is being -[3338.34 --> 3340.98] denied or -[3340.98 --> 3342.04] refined in -[3342.04 --> 3342.56] the negative -[3342.56 --> 3342.86] sense. -[3342.94 --> 3343.20] There's an -[3343.20 --> 3343.82] aspect of -[3343.82 --> 3344.40] who God -[3344.40 --> 3344.84] is that -[3344.84 --> 3345.18] he wants -[3345.18 --> 3345.52] us to -[3345.52 --> 3346.20] remember -[3346.20 --> 3347.52] as we -[3347.52 --> 3348.50] come to -[3348.50 --> 3348.70] him. -[3349.68 --> 3350.36] And for -[3350.36 --> 3351.04] shorthand, -[3351.14 --> 3351.70] and to help -[3351.70 --> 3352.46] you as we -[3352.46 --> 3353.84] go through -[3353.84 --> 3354.30] this, I'm -[3354.30 --> 3354.44] going to -[3354.44 --> 3354.98] refer to -[3354.98 --> 3355.68] these things -[3355.68 --> 3356.92] as God's -[3356.92 --> 3357.56] omnis, -[3358.06 --> 3359.06] the omnis -[3359.06 --> 3359.68] of God. -[3360.42 --> 3360.66] And so -[3360.66 --> 3360.84] we're going -[3360.84 --> 3361.04] to talk -[3361.04 --> 3361.34] for just -[3361.34 --> 3361.62] a moment -[3361.62 --> 3362.46] about God's -[3362.46 --> 3363.26] omnipotence, -[3363.86 --> 3364.18] we're going -[3364.18 --> 3364.54] to talk -[3364.54 --> 3365.00] about his -[3365.00 --> 3365.78] omniscience, -[3366.16 --> 3366.66] and we're -[3366.66 --> 3366.78] going to -[3366.78 --> 3367.10] talk about -[3367.10 --> 3368.36] his omnipresence. -[3369.34 --> 3370.60] Now, I -[3370.60 --> 3371.10] fully get -[3371.10 --> 3371.40] that these -[3371.40 --> 3371.94] aren't words -[3371.94 --> 3372.28] that we -[3372.28 --> 3372.82] use very -[3372.82 --> 3374.08] often anymore. -[3375.16 --> 3375.50] And so -[3375.50 --> 3376.08] let's take -[3376.08 --> 3376.36] a minute -[3376.36 --> 3377.02] and make -[3377.02 --> 3377.36] sure that -[3377.36 --> 3377.96] we understand -[3377.96 --> 3378.18] them. -[3378.70 --> 3379.96] Omni is -[3379.96 --> 3380.86] a Latin -[3380.86 --> 3381.70] prefix, -[3382.12 --> 3382.32] and it -[3382.32 --> 3383.14] means all -[3383.14 --> 3384.12] or every. -[3385.34 --> 3385.94] A few -[3385.94 --> 3386.44] years ago, -[3386.64 --> 3387.40] I went to -[3387.40 --> 3387.80] a friend's -[3387.80 --> 3388.14] birthday, -[3388.14 --> 3390.20] and this -[3390.20 --> 3390.74] birthday was -[3390.74 --> 3391.44] hosted at -[3391.44 --> 3392.26] an escape -[3392.26 --> 3392.58] room. -[3393.52 --> 3393.92] And at -[3393.92 --> 3394.54] this escape -[3394.54 --> 3394.90] room, -[3395.38 --> 3396.34] the staff -[3396.34 --> 3397.42] was walking -[3397.42 --> 3398.06] us through -[3398.06 --> 3398.94] some instructions -[3398.94 --> 3399.66] before they -[3399.66 --> 3400.22] locked us in -[3400.22 --> 3400.52] the room, -[3400.56 --> 3400.86] and we had -[3400.86 --> 3401.28] to figure out -[3401.28 --> 3401.62] how to get -[3401.62 --> 3401.80] out. -[3401.86 --> 3402.14] And one -[3402.14 --> 3402.36] of the -[3402.36 --> 3402.78] instructions -[3402.78 --> 3403.82] they would -[3403.82 --> 3404.22] give you -[3404.22 --> 3404.84] is to show -[3404.84 --> 3405.28] you what -[3405.28 --> 3405.80] kind of -[3405.80 --> 3406.70] locks are -[3406.70 --> 3407.08] in the -[3407.08 --> 3407.30] room. -[3407.84 --> 3408.20] And this -[3408.20 --> 3408.84] person picked -[3408.84 --> 3409.68] up a lock -[3409.68 --> 3410.46] that you -[3410.46 --> 3411.04] could move -[3411.04 --> 3412.04] up and -[3412.04 --> 3412.48] then up -[3412.48 --> 3413.80] and right -[3413.80 --> 3414.18] and then -[3414.18 --> 3414.66] right and -[3414.66 --> 3415.02] then down -[3415.02 --> 3415.38] and right -[3415.38 --> 3415.86] and down -[3415.86 --> 3416.40] and this -[3416.40 --> 3416.80] way and -[3416.80 --> 3417.18] this way -[3417.18 --> 3417.52] and this -[3417.52 --> 3417.72] way. -[3418.14 --> 3418.46] You could -[3418.46 --> 3418.74] move them -[3418.74 --> 3419.64] in eight -[3419.64 --> 3419.96] different -[3419.96 --> 3420.34] directions, -[3420.76 --> 3421.06] and they -[3421.06 --> 3421.36] call that -[3421.36 --> 3422.64] an omnidirectional -[3422.64 --> 3423.06] lock. -[3423.60 --> 3424.08] It means it -[3424.08 --> 3424.48] moves in -[3424.48 --> 3425.74] every direction -[3425.74 --> 3426.02] and you -[3426.02 --> 3426.28] have to -[3426.28 --> 3426.72] figure out -[3426.72 --> 3427.52] the puzzle -[3427.52 --> 3428.44] to get -[3428.44 --> 3429.36] it open. -[3430.10 --> 3430.40] You have -[3430.40 --> 3430.70] to push -[3430.70 --> 3431.42] that knob -[3431.42 --> 3432.56] in sequential -[3432.56 --> 3433.54] directions in -[3433.54 --> 3433.92] order to -[3433.92 --> 3434.72] make it -[3434.72 --> 3435.04] move. -[3435.42 --> 3435.82] It's -[3435.82 --> 3437.22] omnidirectional, -[3437.44 --> 3438.72] every direction. -[3439.40 --> 3439.82] And so, -[3440.06 --> 3440.92] when we talk -[3440.92 --> 3441.26] about the -[3441.26 --> 3442.02] omnis of -[3442.02 --> 3442.36] God, -[3442.46 --> 3442.78] for instance, -[3442.84 --> 3443.28] when we talk -[3443.28 --> 3443.70] about his -[3443.70 --> 3444.80] omnipotence, -[3444.80 --> 3446.00] we're talking -[3446.00 --> 3446.64] about his -[3446.64 --> 3448.34] all-potency -[3448.34 --> 3448.90] or his -[3448.90 --> 3450.32] all-power. -[3451.58 --> 3452.58] God is -[3452.58 --> 3454.24] all-powerful. -[3455.12 --> 3455.68] He is -[3455.68 --> 3456.92] everywhere -[3456.92 --> 3458.36] powerful. -[3460.08 --> 3461.14] Am I only -[3461.14 --> 3461.62] a God -[3461.62 --> 3462.14] nearby -[3462.14 --> 3463.84] and not -[3463.84 --> 3464.40] a God -[3464.40 --> 3465.46] far away? -[3467.38 --> 3467.56] Now, -[3467.60 --> 3468.00] for Jeremiah, -[3468.12 --> 3468.58] this is a -[3468.58 --> 3469.24] reference of -[3469.24 --> 3469.96] comparison -[3469.96 --> 3470.08] comparison. -[3471.04 --> 3471.44] Because at -[3471.44 --> 3471.92] the time, -[3472.04 --> 3472.24] in the -[3472.24 --> 3472.72] ancient Near -[3472.72 --> 3473.08] East, -[3473.66 --> 3474.36] gods are -[3474.36 --> 3474.86] generally -[3474.86 --> 3475.84] understood to -[3475.84 --> 3476.88] be tied to -[3476.88 --> 3477.26] a certain -[3477.26 --> 3478.38] region of -[3478.38 --> 3479.34] rule or -[3479.34 --> 3479.90] to a -[3479.90 --> 3480.68] locality. -[3481.96 --> 3482.36] Some of -[3482.36 --> 3482.90] the gods -[3482.90 --> 3484.04] had different -[3484.04 --> 3485.32] realms or -[3485.32 --> 3486.08] areas of -[3486.08 --> 3486.66] control. -[3487.00 --> 3487.50] For instance, -[3487.94 --> 3489.24] Baal is -[3489.24 --> 3489.78] the god of -[3489.78 --> 3490.34] wind and -[3490.34 --> 3490.84] rain and -[3490.84 --> 3491.30] fertility. -[3491.96 --> 3492.70] Mot is -[3492.70 --> 3493.32] the god of -[3493.32 --> 3493.90] drought and -[3493.90 --> 3494.88] infertility and -[3494.88 --> 3495.24] death. -[3495.84 --> 3496.70] Yam is the -[3496.70 --> 3497.26] god of the -[3497.26 --> 3498.08] sea and of -[3498.08 --> 3498.66] chaos. -[3498.66 --> 3500.56] And even -[3500.56 --> 3501.16] if they -[3501.16 --> 3502.02] share a -[3502.02 --> 3502.54] name, -[3502.70 --> 3503.36] like Baal, -[3503.60 --> 3504.36] they're often -[3504.36 --> 3505.32] tied to -[3505.32 --> 3506.24] local -[3506.24 --> 3507.02] manifestations. -[3508.22 --> 3508.54] And so, -[3508.66 --> 3509.16] even in our -[3509.16 --> 3509.48] own Bible, -[3509.56 --> 3510.02] you can read -[3510.02 --> 3510.66] about the -[3510.66 --> 3511.80] Baal of -[3511.80 --> 3512.72] Peor in -[3512.72 --> 3513.54] Numbers 25 -[3513.54 --> 3514.96] and Deuteronomy -[3514.96 --> 3515.58] 4, you can -[3515.58 --> 3516.10] read about the -[3516.10 --> 3516.52] Baal of -[3516.52 --> 3516.88] Gad. -[3518.48 --> 3519.60] To think of -[3519.60 --> 3520.44] a god or -[3520.44 --> 3521.28] gods in -[3521.28 --> 3522.08] these terms -[3522.08 --> 3523.12] is really -[3523.12 --> 3525.06] to localize -[3525.06 --> 3526.46] their influence -[3526.46 --> 3527.32] and their -[3527.32 --> 3527.68] power. -[3528.66 --> 3530.64] God, the -[3530.64 --> 3530.92] god of -[3530.92 --> 3531.28] the Bible, -[3531.38 --> 3531.74] the god of -[3531.74 --> 3532.82] Israel, will -[3532.82 --> 3533.38] not have -[3533.38 --> 3533.70] that. -[3534.58 --> 3535.04] He will -[3535.04 --> 3535.64] not be -[3535.64 --> 3536.18] limited. -[3536.44 --> 3536.78] He will -[3536.78 --> 3537.36] not be -[3537.36 --> 3538.38] regionalized. -[3538.46 --> 3538.74] He will -[3538.74 --> 3539.30] not be -[3539.30 --> 3540.28] boxed in -[3540.28 --> 3540.84] and made -[3540.84 --> 3541.28] small. -[3541.44 --> 3541.82] He is -[3541.82 --> 3543.00] near and -[3543.00 --> 3543.34] far. -[3543.66 --> 3543.94] He is -[3543.94 --> 3544.36] the same -[3544.36 --> 3545.08] here as -[3545.08 --> 3545.54] he is -[3545.54 --> 3546.16] there. -[3546.32 --> 3546.96] His rule -[3546.96 --> 3547.34] and his -[3547.34 --> 3548.30] power extends -[3548.30 --> 3548.94] over all -[3548.94 --> 3549.36] the earth. -[3549.44 --> 3549.76] He is -[3549.76 --> 3550.64] the lord of -[3550.64 --> 3551.18] lords, the -[3551.18 --> 3551.62] one true -[3551.62 --> 3552.14] god, the -[3552.14 --> 3552.70] maker of -[3552.70 --> 3553.58] heaven and -[3553.58 --> 3554.00] of earth. -[3554.00 --> 3555.48] He is -[3555.48 --> 3557.28] omnipotent, -[3557.56 --> 3557.92] all -[3557.92 --> 3559.10] powerful, that -[3559.10 --> 3559.82] is powerful -[3559.82 --> 3560.76] everywhere. -[3560.98 --> 3561.38] There is no -[3561.38 --> 3562.30] region or -[3562.30 --> 3562.92] realm or -[3562.92 --> 3563.70] room where -[3563.70 --> 3565.08] God is not -[3565.08 --> 3566.02] present in -[3566.02 --> 3566.80] power. -[3566.96 --> 3567.68] His power -[3567.68 --> 3568.80] has no -[3568.80 --> 3569.54] end. -[3569.86 --> 3570.36] That's what -[3570.36 --> 3571.10] Jeremiah wants -[3571.10 --> 3571.56] you to see. -[3571.72 --> 3572.44] He is -[3572.44 --> 3573.54] omnipotent. -[3575.64 --> 3576.24] And the -[3576.24 --> 3576.78] next thing -[3576.78 --> 3578.26] that we can -[3578.26 --> 3579.28] see is -[3579.28 --> 3579.82] his -[3579.82 --> 3582.46] omniscience. -[3582.46 --> 3583.06] and that's -[3583.06 --> 3583.68] a compound -[3583.68 --> 3584.04] word, -[3584.16 --> 3584.48] omni, -[3584.60 --> 3584.78] all, -[3584.88 --> 3585.14] every. -[3586.22 --> 3587.60] And I'm -[3587.60 --> 3587.74] going to -[3587.74 --> 3588.12] butcher the -[3588.12 --> 3588.46] Latin, -[3589.10 --> 3589.68] scientia, -[3591.06 --> 3591.22] right? -[3591.28 --> 3591.88] His all -[3591.88 --> 3592.28] knowing. -[3592.42 --> 3592.74] Here and -[3592.74 --> 3593.20] there, the -[3593.20 --> 3593.96] root science, -[3594.14 --> 3594.28] right? -[3594.34 --> 3594.86] To know, -[3595.50 --> 3595.66] right? -[3596.06 --> 3596.70] Can anyone -[3596.70 --> 3598.04] hide in -[3598.04 --> 3598.78] secret places -[3598.78 --> 3599.52] so that I -[3599.52 --> 3600.30] cannot see -[3600.30 --> 3600.54] them? -[3601.72 --> 3602.48] God knows. -[3603.12 --> 3603.74] He sees -[3603.74 --> 3604.32] all things. -[3604.48 --> 3605.08] Nothing is -[3605.08 --> 3605.90] hidden from -[3605.90 --> 3606.08] him. -[3606.44 --> 3607.10] Psalm 44 -[3607.10 --> 3607.72] says, God -[3607.72 --> 3608.20] knows the -[3608.20 --> 3608.68] secrets of -[3608.68 --> 3609.08] our hearts. -[3609.20 --> 3609.78] Psalm 144 -[3609.78 --> 3610.64] says, God -[3610.64 --> 3611.58] our great is -[3611.58 --> 3612.12] the Lord and -[3612.12 --> 3612.44] mighty and -[3612.44 --> 3612.86] power. -[3613.00 --> 3613.12] His -[3613.12 --> 3614.02] understanding -[3614.02 --> 3614.84] has no -[3614.84 --> 3615.64] limit. -[3616.36 --> 3616.98] Psalm 39 -[3616.98 --> 3617.56] which we're -[3617.56 --> 3618.14] going to put -[3618.14 --> 3618.68] on the screen -[3618.68 --> 3619.12] for you. -[3619.86 --> 3620.44] Psalm 39 -[3620.44 --> 3621.34] says, you -[3621.34 --> 3621.94] have searched -[3621.94 --> 3622.80] me Lord and -[3622.80 --> 3623.44] you know me. -[3624.20 --> 3624.60] You know -[3624.60 --> 3625.26] when I sit -[3625.26 --> 3625.74] and when I -[3625.74 --> 3626.16] rise. -[3626.28 --> 3626.82] You perceive -[3626.82 --> 3627.64] my thoughts -[3627.64 --> 3628.32] from afar. -[3628.48 --> 3628.96] You discern -[3628.96 --> 3629.46] my going -[3629.46 --> 3629.82] out and -[3629.82 --> 3630.18] my laying -[3630.18 --> 3630.46] down. -[3631.02 --> 3631.42] You are -[3631.42 --> 3632.28] familiar with -[3632.28 --> 3633.12] all my -[3633.12 --> 3633.54] ways. -[3633.66 --> 3634.38] Before a -[3634.38 --> 3635.02] word is on -[3635.02 --> 3635.54] my tongue, -[3635.78 --> 3636.50] you Lord -[3636.50 --> 3637.06] know it -[3637.06 --> 3637.86] completely. -[3639.74 --> 3640.78] God knows -[3640.78 --> 3641.98] everything. -[3642.44 --> 3643.82] nothing is -[3643.82 --> 3644.22] hidden from -[3644.22 --> 3644.36] him. -[3644.56 --> 3645.06] No one -[3645.06 --> 3645.86] can hide -[3645.86 --> 3646.78] from him. -[3648.70 --> 3649.12] And let's -[3649.12 --> 3649.48] be candid -[3649.48 --> 3649.80] again. -[3650.00 --> 3651.44] This truth -[3651.44 --> 3652.20] of who -[3652.20 --> 3653.04] God is -[3653.04 --> 3655.74] can be -[3655.74 --> 3656.20] scary -[3656.20 --> 3658.04] or it -[3658.04 --> 3658.30] can be -[3658.30 --> 3658.70] comforting. -[3660.70 --> 3661.04] When you -[3661.04 --> 3661.96] trust God, -[3662.02 --> 3662.20] when you -[3662.20 --> 3662.66] rely on -[3662.66 --> 3663.20] his grace, -[3663.54 --> 3664.12] God's -[3664.12 --> 3664.84] all-knowing -[3664.84 --> 3665.20] and his -[3665.20 --> 3666.02] all-seeing -[3666.02 --> 3666.76] means you -[3666.76 --> 3667.68] never surprise -[3667.68 --> 3667.94] him. -[3667.94 --> 3670.30] whatever -[3670.30 --> 3671.16] happens in -[3671.16 --> 3671.76] your life -[3671.76 --> 3672.20] will never -[3672.20 --> 3672.94] catch God -[3672.94 --> 3673.50] off guard -[3673.50 --> 3673.84] like he -[3673.84 --> 3674.04] didn't -[3674.04 --> 3674.44] anticipate -[3674.44 --> 3674.78] it or -[3674.78 --> 3675.06] see it -[3675.06 --> 3675.30] coming. -[3676.50 --> 3676.94] And if -[3676.94 --> 3677.36] you don't -[3677.36 --> 3677.84] love or -[3677.84 --> 3678.28] trust or -[3678.28 --> 3678.84] know God -[3678.84 --> 3679.56] and you -[3679.56 --> 3681.04] believe or -[3681.04 --> 3681.64] hear that -[3681.64 --> 3684.24] he is or -[3684.24 --> 3684.82] believe that -[3684.82 --> 3685.36] he is for -[3685.36 --> 3685.82] you and has -[3685.82 --> 3686.36] his best in -[3686.36 --> 3686.78] mind for -[3686.78 --> 3686.88] you, -[3687.00 --> 3687.30] God's -[3687.30 --> 3688.18] all-seeing -[3688.18 --> 3688.82] can be -[3688.82 --> 3689.98] terrifying. -[3692.54 --> 3693.02] You're -[3693.02 --> 3693.28] trying to -[3693.28 --> 3693.68] tell me that -[3693.68 --> 3694.28] God knows -[3694.28 --> 3695.32] what I did -[3695.32 --> 3696.56] over there. -[3700.16 --> 3700.82] God knows -[3700.82 --> 3701.06] what I -[3701.06 --> 3702.06] thought -[3702.06 --> 3702.98] when I -[3702.98 --> 3703.36] was here. -[3705.70 --> 3706.26] But you -[3706.26 --> 3706.46] see, -[3707.38 --> 3708.30] either way, -[3708.44 --> 3709.32] here's the -[3709.32 --> 3709.84] implication, -[3710.56 --> 3710.74] right, -[3710.94 --> 3711.88] that if -[3711.88 --> 3713.04] God doesn't -[3713.04 --> 3713.66] know all -[3713.66 --> 3714.14] things, -[3715.06 --> 3715.62] it means that -[3715.62 --> 3715.88] you can -[3715.88 --> 3716.56] surprise him, -[3716.62 --> 3716.82] you can -[3716.82 --> 3717.14] catch him -[3717.14 --> 3717.46] off guard, -[3717.58 --> 3717.98] and then -[3717.98 --> 3718.58] he has to -[3718.58 --> 3719.08] react to -[3719.08 --> 3719.36] you. -[3720.30 --> 3720.88] It means -[3720.88 --> 3721.26] that God -[3721.26 --> 3721.88] isn't really -[3721.88 --> 3722.62] in control -[3722.62 --> 3723.70] but reacting -[3723.70 --> 3724.16] to whatever -[3724.16 --> 3724.68] happens in -[3724.68 --> 3724.98] front of -[3724.98 --> 3725.08] him. -[3725.32 --> 3725.58] And it -[3725.58 --> 3726.10] means that -[3726.10 --> 3726.64] he isn't -[3726.64 --> 3727.64] exactly sure -[3727.64 --> 3728.44] how things -[3728.44 --> 3728.68] are going -[3728.68 --> 3729.00] to turn -[3729.00 --> 3729.28] out, -[3729.36 --> 3729.78] that he -[3729.78 --> 3730.18] has to -[3730.18 --> 3730.62] wait and -[3730.62 --> 3730.86] see, -[3730.96 --> 3731.34] just like -[3731.34 --> 3731.70] the rest -[3731.70 --> 3732.10] of us. -[3733.00 --> 3733.42] Really, -[3733.56 --> 3733.86] again, -[3733.98 --> 3734.86] that undermines -[3734.86 --> 3735.38] who God -[3735.38 --> 3735.64] is. -[3735.72 --> 3736.16] If that's -[3736.16 --> 3736.48] true, -[3736.66 --> 3737.16] that means -[3737.16 --> 3738.02] God isn't -[3738.02 --> 3738.66] God. -[3739.78 --> 3740.22] And if -[3740.22 --> 3740.80] God isn't -[3740.80 --> 3741.12] God, -[3741.20 --> 3741.42] I'm going -[3741.42 --> 3741.62] to be -[3741.62 --> 3742.16] frank with -[3742.16 --> 3742.34] you, -[3742.94 --> 3743.72] nothing -[3743.72 --> 3744.50] makes sense -[3744.50 --> 3745.00] anymore. -[3746.64 --> 3747.14] Think about it, -[3747.14 --> 3747.68] if you can -[3747.68 --> 3748.22] hide from -[3748.22 --> 3748.44] God, -[3748.48 --> 3748.70] I mean -[3748.70 --> 3749.70] really hide -[3749.70 --> 3750.14] from him -[3750.14 --> 3750.86] so that he -[3750.86 --> 3751.30] doesn't know -[3751.30 --> 3751.60] where you -[3751.60 --> 3751.84] are, -[3752.04 --> 3752.62] that means -[3752.62 --> 3752.94] it's -[3752.94 --> 3753.74] possible to -[3753.74 --> 3754.48] be somewhere -[3754.48 --> 3755.60] without God. -[3756.40 --> 3757.44] And if any -[3757.44 --> 3758.00] part of the -[3758.00 --> 3758.98] universe is -[3758.98 --> 3760.02] without God, -[3760.86 --> 3762.44] I believe it -[3762.44 --> 3763.04] would cease to -[3763.04 --> 3763.50] exist. -[3764.92 --> 3765.28] That is, -[3765.34 --> 3766.02] God's sovereignty -[3766.02 --> 3766.62] and his -[3766.62 --> 3767.80] common grace, -[3767.96 --> 3769.08] God's character -[3769.08 --> 3770.04] as the only -[3770.04 --> 3771.20] independent being -[3771.20 --> 3772.22] in all the -[3772.22 --> 3772.86] universe, -[3772.86 --> 3773.82] means that -[3773.82 --> 3774.88] everything else -[3774.88 --> 3775.62] is dependent -[3775.62 --> 3776.68] upon his -[3776.68 --> 3777.46] being. -[3777.62 --> 3778.58] Without him, -[3779.04 --> 3780.52] nothing exists -[3780.52 --> 3780.84] exists or -[3780.84 --> 3781.52] would continue -[3781.52 --> 3782.64] to exist. -[3782.76 --> 3783.02] If the -[3783.02 --> 3783.56] world was -[3783.56 --> 3784.20] ever without -[3784.20 --> 3784.84] God, -[3784.90 --> 3785.50] as God -[3785.50 --> 3786.02] operating -[3786.02 --> 3787.46] as he -[3787.46 --> 3787.86] does, -[3788.02 --> 3788.44] it would -[3788.44 --> 3789.42] cease to -[3789.42 --> 3790.16] be. -[3792.96 --> 3793.48] And Jeremiah -[3793.48 --> 3794.34] is reminding -[3794.34 --> 3795.64] us of that. -[3795.80 --> 3796.82] Even in the -[3796.82 --> 3797.94] midst of -[3797.94 --> 3798.70] exile, -[3799.42 --> 3799.90] God -[3799.90 --> 3800.88] knows. -[3801.68 --> 3802.46] Even in the -[3802.46 --> 3802.84] midst of the -[3802.84 --> 3803.62] greatest trials -[3803.62 --> 3804.74] and tribulations -[3804.74 --> 3805.74] and struggles -[3805.74 --> 3806.46] of life -[3806.46 --> 3807.16] and faith, -[3807.56 --> 3807.88] God -[3807.88 --> 3808.70] knows. -[3810.72 --> 3811.08] And God -[3811.08 --> 3811.72] is with you. -[3812.82 --> 3813.26] That's the -[3813.26 --> 3814.70] final omni, -[3814.80 --> 3815.16] God's -[3815.16 --> 3816.38] omnipresence. -[3816.56 --> 3817.08] God is -[3817.08 --> 3817.72] everywhere -[3817.72 --> 3818.80] present. -[3819.02 --> 3819.48] He says, -[3820.26 --> 3821.10] do I not -[3821.10 --> 3822.14] fill heaven -[3822.14 --> 3823.72] and earth, -[3824.22 --> 3824.80] declares the -[3824.80 --> 3825.00] Lord. -[3825.88 --> 3826.30] Again, -[3826.36 --> 3826.62] we can go -[3826.62 --> 3826.96] back to -[3826.96 --> 3828.14] Psalm 139. -[3830.04 --> 3830.48] Psalmist -[3830.48 --> 3830.78] says, -[3830.90 --> 3831.34] where can I -[3831.34 --> 3831.76] go from -[3831.76 --> 3832.30] your spirit? -[3832.42 --> 3832.90] Where can I -[3832.90 --> 3833.44] flee from -[3833.44 --> 3833.98] your presence? -[3834.44 --> 3835.10] If I go up -[3835.10 --> 3835.64] to the heavens, -[3835.78 --> 3836.24] you are there. -[3836.32 --> 3836.68] If I make -[3836.68 --> 3837.22] my bed in -[3837.22 --> 3837.62] the depths, -[3837.62 --> 3838.30] you are there. -[3838.62 --> 3839.40] If I rise -[3839.40 --> 3839.90] on the wings -[3839.90 --> 3840.52] of the dawn -[3840.52 --> 3840.94] and if I -[3840.94 --> 3841.52] settle on the -[3841.52 --> 3842.08] far side -[3842.08 --> 3842.60] of the sea, -[3842.74 --> 3843.68] even there -[3843.68 --> 3844.36] your hand -[3844.36 --> 3845.04] will guide me, -[3845.12 --> 3845.96] your right hand -[3845.96 --> 3846.92] will hold me -[3846.92 --> 3847.82] fast. -[3848.52 --> 3849.24] If I say, -[3849.40 --> 3849.94] surely the -[3849.94 --> 3850.62] darkness will -[3850.62 --> 3851.00] hide me -[3851.00 --> 3851.50] and the light -[3851.50 --> 3852.12] become night -[3852.12 --> 3852.76] around me, -[3853.10 --> 3853.84] even the -[3853.84 --> 3854.38] darkness -[3854.38 --> 3855.10] will not -[3855.10 --> 3855.64] be dark -[3855.64 --> 3856.10] to you. -[3856.52 --> 3857.10] The night -[3857.10 --> 3857.86] will shine -[3857.86 --> 3858.60] like the day, -[3858.74 --> 3859.34] for darkness -[3859.34 --> 3860.60] is as light -[3860.60 --> 3861.48] to you. -[3862.96 --> 3863.54] God -[3863.54 --> 3864.44] is -[3864.44 --> 3865.68] everywhere. -[3865.68 --> 3865.90] everywhere. -[3867.46 --> 3867.86] Now, -[3867.86 --> 3868.10] let me be -[3868.10 --> 3868.56] really clear -[3868.56 --> 3869.88] because that's -[3869.88 --> 3870.72] not the same -[3870.72 --> 3871.98] as everywhere -[3871.98 --> 3872.76] is God. -[3874.14 --> 3874.44] Right? -[3874.48 --> 3875.20] That's a form -[3875.20 --> 3876.10] of panentheism -[3876.10 --> 3877.14] or pantheism -[3877.14 --> 3877.76] where God -[3877.76 --> 3878.42] is part of -[3878.42 --> 3878.94] creation -[3878.94 --> 3880.02] or there are -[3880.02 --> 3880.60] aspects, -[3880.78 --> 3881.66] divine aspects -[3881.66 --> 3883.60] woven into -[3883.60 --> 3884.74] the created -[3884.74 --> 3885.98] things and -[3885.98 --> 3886.36] they come -[3886.36 --> 3887.12] together to -[3887.12 --> 3887.68] make up the -[3887.68 --> 3888.32] divine in -[3888.32 --> 3889.00] some way. -[3890.20 --> 3890.50] Instead, -[3890.82 --> 3891.44] God is -[3891.44 --> 3892.20] present -[3892.20 --> 3892.98] everywhere -[3892.98 --> 3894.28] by his -[3894.28 --> 3895.04] spirit. -[3895.88 --> 3896.36] In heaven, -[3896.50 --> 3896.66] yep, -[3896.78 --> 3897.12] God is -[3897.12 --> 3897.34] there. -[3897.84 --> 3898.26] In the -[3898.26 --> 3898.58] depths, -[3898.78 --> 3898.94] yep, -[3899.08 --> 3899.42] God is -[3899.42 --> 3899.64] there. -[3899.82 --> 3900.16] In the -[3900.16 --> 3900.44] morning, -[3900.60 --> 3900.76] yep, -[3900.90 --> 3901.26] God is -[3901.26 --> 3901.44] there. -[3901.64 --> 3902.04] On the -[3902.04 --> 3902.88] other side -[3902.88 --> 3903.14] of the -[3903.14 --> 3903.42] sea, -[3903.58 --> 3903.76] yep, -[3903.90 --> 3904.34] God is -[3904.34 --> 3904.58] there. -[3904.68 --> 3905.02] In the -[3905.02 --> 3905.40] darkness, -[3905.78 --> 3906.08] yes, -[3906.50 --> 3907.42] God is -[3907.42 --> 3907.70] there. -[3907.80 --> 3908.16] There is -[3908.16 --> 3908.52] nowhere, -[3908.90 --> 3909.46] no time, -[3909.58 --> 3910.18] no place -[3910.18 --> 3911.16] where God -[3911.16 --> 3912.52] is not. -[3915.38 --> 3915.98] Why does -[3915.98 --> 3916.26] that make -[3916.26 --> 3916.72] a difference? -[3918.82 --> 3919.30] Because, -[3919.58 --> 3920.18] that makes -[3920.18 --> 3920.56] a difference -[3920.56 --> 3921.54] because it -[3921.54 --> 3922.14] means there -[3922.14 --> 3922.72] is nowhere, -[3922.90 --> 3923.40] no time, -[3923.50 --> 3924.20] no place, -[3924.60 --> 3925.16] you can -[3925.16 --> 3925.86] be where -[3925.86 --> 3926.90] God is -[3926.90 --> 3928.02] not with -[3928.02 --> 3928.32] you. -[3929.84 --> 3930.48] God is -[3930.48 --> 3931.08] with you -[3931.08 --> 3931.72] in the -[3931.72 --> 3932.38] hospital room. -[3933.40 --> 3933.88] God is -[3933.88 --> 3934.50] with you -[3934.50 --> 3935.16] on the -[3935.16 --> 3935.70] graveside. -[3936.58 --> 3937.02] God is -[3937.02 --> 3937.66] with you -[3937.66 --> 3938.22] in the -[3938.22 --> 3938.62] counseling -[3938.62 --> 3938.94] room. -[3939.56 --> 3939.86] God is -[3939.86 --> 3940.40] with you -[3940.40 --> 3940.86] in the -[3940.86 --> 3941.38] workplace -[3941.38 --> 3942.14] or at -[3942.14 --> 3942.66] school -[3942.66 --> 3943.18] or at -[3943.18 --> 3943.66] the bar -[3943.66 --> 3944.32] or on -[3944.32 --> 3944.66] the golf -[3944.66 --> 3945.10] course. -[3946.52 --> 3947.66] When no -[3947.66 --> 3948.26] one else -[3948.26 --> 3948.68] is there -[3948.68 --> 3949.34] around you, -[3950.02 --> 3950.68] God is -[3950.68 --> 3951.16] with you. -[3952.14 --> 3953.34] He will -[3953.34 --> 3954.22] never leave -[3954.22 --> 3955.20] you nor -[3955.20 --> 3955.66] forsake -[3955.66 --> 3955.90] you. -[3958.48 --> 3959.38] I pray -[3959.38 --> 3959.76] that you -[3959.76 --> 3960.62] let this -[3960.62 --> 3962.44] truth change -[3962.44 --> 3963.26] the way you -[3963.26 --> 3964.28] see this -[3964.28 --> 3965.70] last year. -[3966.92 --> 3968.10] Even if it -[3968.10 --> 3968.68] was the most -[3968.68 --> 3969.14] difficult, -[3969.56 --> 3969.94] chaotic, -[3970.36 --> 3970.70] lonely, -[3971.00 --> 3971.52] heartbreaking, -[3971.76 --> 3972.46] body-breaking, -[3972.72 --> 3973.66] disappointing year -[3973.66 --> 3974.24] you've ever -[3974.24 --> 3974.60] had, -[3974.96 --> 3975.58] God was -[3975.58 --> 3977.16] always with -[3977.16 --> 3977.48] you. -[3977.48 --> 3979.20] now maybe -[3979.20 --> 3979.46] in the -[3979.46 --> 3979.84] moment you -[3979.84 --> 3980.30] didn't have -[3980.30 --> 3980.84] the eyes -[3980.84 --> 3981.86] to see -[3981.86 --> 3982.50] it or -[3982.50 --> 3983.10] a heart -[3983.10 --> 3983.92] to believe -[3983.92 --> 3984.92] it or -[3984.92 --> 3985.76] a will -[3985.76 --> 3986.88] to feel -[3986.88 --> 3987.10] it, -[3988.10 --> 3988.80] but that -[3988.80 --> 3989.12] doesn't -[3989.12 --> 3990.18] change the -[3990.18 --> 3990.66] truth. -[3991.66 --> 3992.94] God is -[3992.94 --> 3993.90] there -[3993.90 --> 3995.08] always. -[3997.32 --> 3998.10] God is -[3998.10 --> 3998.82] omnipotent, -[3999.56 --> 4000.10] God is -[4000.10 --> 4000.68] omniscient, -[4001.40 --> 4001.92] and God is -[4001.92 --> 4003.14] omnipresent, -[4004.28 --> 4004.86] the one -[4004.86 --> 4006.24] true God. -[4006.24 --> 4006.28] God. -[4007.94 --> 4008.12] And so -[4008.12 --> 4008.46] why does -[4008.46 --> 4009.06] Jeremiah, -[4009.42 --> 4010.10] in the face -[4010.10 --> 4010.88] of these -[4010.88 --> 4012.74] false health -[4012.74 --> 4013.32] and wealth -[4013.32 --> 4014.00] prosperity -[4014.00 --> 4015.18] teachers, -[4015.30 --> 4015.80] need to -[4015.80 --> 4016.40] remind you -[4016.40 --> 4016.84] of that? -[4018.12 --> 4018.86] Because you -[4018.86 --> 4019.14] see it -[4019.14 --> 4019.88] turns out -[4019.88 --> 4022.20] that if -[4022.20 --> 4022.84] God's -[4022.84 --> 4023.72] omnis are -[4023.72 --> 4024.28] true, -[4024.72 --> 4025.82] even trial, -[4025.98 --> 4026.68] even hardship, -[4026.82 --> 4027.44] even suffering, -[4027.56 --> 4028.38] even illness or -[4028.38 --> 4028.88] persecution, -[4029.40 --> 4029.90] even the -[4029.90 --> 4030.42] worst thing -[4030.42 --> 4030.88] that's happened -[4030.88 --> 4031.24] to you, -[4031.50 --> 4032.34] even all of -[4032.34 --> 4033.08] those things -[4033.08 --> 4034.60] are under -[4034.60 --> 4035.68] his control. -[4036.24 --> 4038.64] and in -[4038.64 --> 4039.28] some -[4039.28 --> 4040.66] divinely -[4040.66 --> 4041.48] mysterious -[4041.48 --> 4042.18] way, -[4042.32 --> 4042.76] they come -[4042.76 --> 4043.34] to you -[4043.34 --> 4044.58] by his -[4044.58 --> 4044.88] hand. -[4046.58 --> 4047.14] Which -[4047.14 --> 4047.52] means, -[4047.94 --> 4048.50] at a -[4048.50 --> 4048.90] minimum, -[4049.86 --> 4050.32] God has -[4050.32 --> 4051.04] a purpose -[4051.04 --> 4051.86] in them, -[4051.98 --> 4052.38] for them, -[4052.42 --> 4052.96] and through -[4052.96 --> 4053.24] them. -[4053.54 --> 4053.92] That God -[4053.92 --> 4054.24] has a -[4054.24 --> 4054.60] plan, -[4054.96 --> 4055.48] and God, -[4055.56 --> 4056.30] only this -[4056.30 --> 4056.72] God, -[4056.80 --> 4057.38] who is -[4057.38 --> 4057.92] omnipotent, -[4058.18 --> 4058.58] omniscient, -[4058.70 --> 4059.34] and omnipresent, -[4059.64 --> 4060.26] can accomplish -[4060.26 --> 4060.58] that. -[4061.58 --> 4062.24] If God -[4062.24 --> 4062.92] isn't those -[4062.92 --> 4063.76] three things, -[4063.94 --> 4064.82] your suffering, -[4064.82 --> 4065.76] meaningless. -[4066.98 --> 4067.58] If God -[4067.58 --> 4068.08] isn't those -[4068.08 --> 4068.70] three things, -[4069.00 --> 4069.52] whatever you -[4069.52 --> 4069.98] face in -[4069.98 --> 4070.26] life, -[4070.88 --> 4071.38] you can't -[4071.38 --> 4071.68] be sure -[4071.68 --> 4071.90] it has -[4071.90 --> 4072.36] a purpose. -[4073.56 --> 4074.22] You have -[4074.22 --> 4075.14] zero confidence -[4075.14 --> 4076.02] that the -[4076.02 --> 4077.04] reason you're -[4077.04 --> 4077.64] going through, -[4077.72 --> 4078.44] whatever it is -[4078.44 --> 4078.88] you're going -[4078.88 --> 4079.24] through, -[4079.46 --> 4080.16] is because -[4080.16 --> 4081.26] God has -[4081.26 --> 4081.84] an idea, -[4082.20 --> 4082.52] and God -[4082.52 --> 4082.78] is in -[4082.78 --> 4083.02] control. -[4083.18 --> 4083.68] But if -[4083.68 --> 4084.28] God is -[4084.28 --> 4084.68] who he -[4084.68 --> 4085.10] says he -[4085.10 --> 4085.42] is, -[4085.50 --> 4086.38] you can -[4086.38 --> 4087.16] have -[4087.16 --> 4088.04] confidence, -[4088.16 --> 4088.68] you can -[4088.68 --> 4089.70] be assured. -[4089.82 --> 4090.16] That's the -[4090.16 --> 4090.86] only way -[4090.86 --> 4091.66] to find -[4091.66 --> 4092.44] purpose. -[4092.44 --> 4092.56] false. -[4094.08 --> 4095.10] Turns out -[4095.10 --> 4096.38] this false -[4096.38 --> 4097.16] teaching -[4097.16 --> 4100.24] is false -[4100.24 --> 4101.14] and damaging -[4101.14 --> 4101.92] and hard -[4101.92 --> 4102.52] because it -[4102.52 --> 4103.86] sacrifices the -[4103.86 --> 4104.62] truth of -[4104.62 --> 4105.24] God, -[4105.30 --> 4105.52] and it -[4105.52 --> 4105.82] doesn't -[4105.82 --> 4106.10] actually -[4106.10 --> 4106.70] provide any -[4106.70 --> 4107.66] real comfort -[4107.66 --> 4108.20] or hope -[4108.20 --> 4108.74] because it -[4108.74 --> 4109.76] presumes that -[4109.76 --> 4110.52] sufferings and -[4110.52 --> 4111.12] hardships are -[4111.12 --> 4111.92] outside of -[4111.92 --> 4112.52] God's purpose -[4112.52 --> 4113.42] and power. -[4113.76 --> 4114.32] The God -[4114.32 --> 4114.74] of health -[4114.74 --> 4115.30] and wealth -[4115.30 --> 4116.12] isn't big -[4116.12 --> 4116.46] enough, -[4116.54 --> 4117.02] he isn't -[4117.02 --> 4118.02] omni enough -[4118.02 --> 4118.70] to have -[4118.70 --> 4119.06] that under -[4119.06 --> 4119.70] his control. -[4119.70 --> 4122.52] Now the -[4122.52 --> 4122.96] greatest -[4122.96 --> 4123.66] evidence, -[4123.78 --> 4124.28] the greatest -[4124.28 --> 4124.96] evidence that -[4124.96 --> 4126.14] God is, -[4126.34 --> 4126.64] of course, -[4126.74 --> 4127.34] in control, -[4127.48 --> 4127.72] that he -[4127.72 --> 4128.70] is big -[4128.70 --> 4129.12] enough, -[4129.22 --> 4129.46] that he -[4129.46 --> 4130.64] is all -[4130.64 --> 4131.14] knowing and -[4131.14 --> 4131.86] all powerful -[4131.86 --> 4132.68] and that he -[4132.68 --> 4133.90] is everywhere -[4133.90 --> 4135.78] present is, -[4136.58 --> 4137.24] in fact, -[4137.46 --> 4139.20] what Jeremiah -[4139.20 --> 4140.18] promises in -[4140.18 --> 4140.78] this chapter. -[4141.84 --> 4142.56] Because of -[4142.56 --> 4143.04] who God -[4143.04 --> 4143.46] is, -[4143.82 --> 4144.46] because he -[4144.46 --> 4145.04] is in -[4145.04 --> 4145.90] fact omni -[4145.90 --> 4146.56] enough, -[4147.04 --> 4147.74] he promises -[4147.74 --> 4148.24] that he -[4148.24 --> 4149.04] will eventually, -[4149.04 --> 4149.68] in chapter -[4149.68 --> 4150.14] 23, -[4150.24 --> 4150.74] verse 5, -[4151.18 --> 4151.74] raise up -[4151.74 --> 4152.44] a righteous -[4152.44 --> 4153.46] branch. -[4154.30 --> 4154.84] A righteous -[4154.84 --> 4155.40] branch to -[4155.40 --> 4155.92] take the -[4155.92 --> 4156.66] place of -[4156.66 --> 4157.74] these failed -[4157.74 --> 4158.18] kings. -[4158.30 --> 4158.68] A good -[4158.68 --> 4159.32] shepherd who -[4159.32 --> 4159.90] will rule -[4159.90 --> 4160.52] in the place -[4160.52 --> 4161.18] of the -[4161.18 --> 4161.72] oppressive -[4161.72 --> 4162.26] shepherds -[4162.26 --> 4163.08] of Jeremiah's -[4163.08 --> 4163.24] day. -[4163.64 --> 4164.12] God would -[4164.12 --> 4164.64] accomplish -[4164.64 --> 4165.30] this new -[4165.30 --> 4165.78] act of -[4165.78 --> 4166.28] salvation -[4166.28 --> 4167.00] that would -[4167.00 --> 4168.00] eclipse even -[4168.00 --> 4168.92] the exodus -[4168.92 --> 4169.58] for the -[4169.58 --> 4169.82] people. -[4169.98 --> 4170.70] God promises -[4170.70 --> 4171.38] a new -[4171.38 --> 4171.86] covenant -[4171.86 --> 4172.64] that would -[4172.64 --> 4173.14] change -[4173.14 --> 4173.76] people's -[4173.76 --> 4174.30] hearts. -[4175.26 --> 4175.86] In place -[4175.86 --> 4176.20] of the -[4176.20 --> 4176.72] external -[4176.72 --> 4177.40] obediences -[4177.40 --> 4177.94] and the -[4177.94 --> 4178.54] hypocritical -[4178.54 --> 4178.88] hearts, -[4179.04 --> 4179.38] that are -[4179.38 --> 4179.80] all around -[4179.80 --> 4179.94] them, -[4180.02 --> 4180.44] God would -[4180.44 --> 4180.86] give them -[4180.86 --> 4181.52] new hearts, -[4181.66 --> 4182.32] true hearts, -[4182.66 --> 4183.12] hearts of -[4183.12 --> 4184.30] flesh transformed -[4184.30 --> 4184.92] out of these -[4184.92 --> 4185.42] hearts of -[4185.42 --> 4185.76] stone, -[4186.20 --> 4186.94] circumcised -[4186.94 --> 4187.28] hearts, -[4187.38 --> 4188.12] to use the -[4188.12 --> 4188.98] language of -[4188.98 --> 4189.28] Jeremiah, -[4189.46 --> 4190.18] to restore -[4190.18 --> 4190.88] the fallen -[4190.88 --> 4191.68] relationships -[4191.68 --> 4192.74] of people -[4192.74 --> 4194.18] to our -[4194.18 --> 4194.78] God. -[4196.12 --> 4196.76] We see -[4196.76 --> 4197.34] that most -[4197.34 --> 4198.04] clearly when -[4198.04 --> 4198.80] God took -[4198.80 --> 4199.44] the greatest -[4199.44 --> 4200.70] evil ever -[4200.70 --> 4201.18] intended, -[4201.30 --> 4201.66] that is when -[4201.66 --> 4202.28] humanity -[4202.28 --> 4204.36] ourselves put -[4204.36 --> 4204.90] God on a -[4204.90 --> 4205.24] cross, -[4205.30 --> 4205.72] when we -[4205.72 --> 4206.86] killed God, -[4206.94 --> 4207.54] God took the -[4207.54 --> 4208.16] greatest evil -[4208.16 --> 4208.78] ever intended -[4208.78 --> 4209.10] and he -[4209.10 --> 4209.80] turned that -[4209.80 --> 4210.74] into the -[4210.74 --> 4211.18] greatest -[4211.18 --> 4212.08] good you -[4212.08 --> 4212.60] could ever -[4212.60 --> 4213.34] imagine -[4213.34 --> 4214.08] possible. -[4214.40 --> 4215.20] God used -[4215.20 --> 4215.86] the cross, -[4215.98 --> 4216.34] the death -[4216.34 --> 4216.90] of himself, -[4216.90 --> 4218.20] to restore -[4218.20 --> 4219.60] humanity to -[4219.60 --> 4220.34] the very God -[4220.34 --> 4220.66] that we -[4220.66 --> 4220.96] killed. -[4221.64 --> 4222.58] Because Jesus -[4222.58 --> 4223.46] lived the life -[4223.46 --> 4224.06] I should have -[4224.06 --> 4224.70] lived and -[4224.70 --> 4225.46] died the death -[4225.46 --> 4225.80] that I -[4225.80 --> 4226.34] deserved, -[4226.46 --> 4227.08] because of -[4227.08 --> 4227.76] God's -[4227.76 --> 4228.36] omnis, -[4228.50 --> 4228.90] he could -[4228.90 --> 4229.50] guide and -[4229.50 --> 4230.12] shape and -[4230.12 --> 4231.06] lead history -[4231.06 --> 4232.02] to make -[4232.02 --> 4233.48] that possible. -[4234.42 --> 4235.34] Because Jesus -[4235.34 --> 4236.20] rose victorious -[4236.20 --> 4236.88] over sin -[4236.88 --> 4237.40] and death, -[4237.88 --> 4238.56] bearing the -[4238.56 --> 4239.22] curse for -[4239.22 --> 4240.02] my sin and -[4240.02 --> 4240.66] giving me -[4240.66 --> 4241.74] the righteousness -[4241.74 --> 4243.04] required to -[4243.04 --> 4243.80] come before -[4243.80 --> 4244.68] a holy God. -[4244.80 --> 4245.52] Because he -[4245.52 --> 4246.52] did all of -[4246.52 --> 4247.52] that, I -[4247.52 --> 4248.06] can rest -[4248.06 --> 4249.00] assured in -[4249.00 --> 4249.36] what I'm -[4249.36 --> 4249.56] going to -[4249.56 --> 4250.08] call the -[4250.08 --> 4251.04] omni-comfort -[4251.04 --> 4251.80] of God. -[4252.92 --> 4253.38] And yes, -[4253.42 --> 4253.86] I made that -[4253.86 --> 4254.12] up. -[4255.40 --> 4256.42] Omni-comfort. -[4257.42 --> 4257.86] Because it -[4257.86 --> 4258.20] works. -[4259.04 --> 4260.20] God is all -[4260.20 --> 4260.96] comforting. -[4262.32 --> 4262.92] Everywhere -[4262.92 --> 4265.24] comfort is -[4265.24 --> 4266.70] mine, is -[4266.70 --> 4268.26] yours because -[4268.26 --> 4269.44] of Jesus. -[4271.22 --> 4271.78] And this -[4271.78 --> 4272.68] omni-comfort -[4272.68 --> 4273.60] is real -[4273.60 --> 4274.82] because God -[4274.82 --> 4275.80] really is -[4275.80 --> 4276.54] omnipotent, -[4276.68 --> 4277.12] omniscient, -[4277.26 --> 4278.34] and omnipresent. -[4280.32 --> 4280.64] You know, -[4281.14 --> 4282.22] in theology, -[4282.42 --> 4282.66] and in -[4282.66 --> 4283.02] particular -[4283.02 --> 4283.56] Reformed -[4283.56 --> 4284.42] theology, -[4284.92 --> 4285.54] we have a -[4285.54 --> 4286.70] word for -[4286.70 --> 4287.38] this. -[4287.52 --> 4288.20] When God -[4288.20 --> 4289.16] acts out -[4289.16 --> 4290.26] his omnipotence, -[4290.36 --> 4290.78] omniscience, -[4290.92 --> 4291.78] and omnipresence -[4291.78 --> 4293.18] to bring us -[4293.18 --> 4293.62] comfort, -[4293.62 --> 4293.68] word, -[4294.88 --> 4295.88] that word -[4295.88 --> 4296.72] is providence, -[4297.44 --> 4297.94] God's -[4297.94 --> 4298.76] providence. -[4299.80 --> 4300.08] And look, -[4300.88 --> 4301.72] I know that -[4301.72 --> 4302.10] in our -[4302.10 --> 4303.00] church tradition, -[4303.78 --> 4304.48] the Reformed -[4304.48 --> 4304.86] tradition, -[4304.98 --> 4305.32] if you're not -[4305.32 --> 4306.00] familiar what -[4306.00 --> 4306.44] that means, -[4306.50 --> 4306.94] we can talk -[4306.94 --> 4307.36] after the -[4307.36 --> 4307.70] service, -[4308.82 --> 4310.28] particularly as -[4310.28 --> 4311.08] it is expressed -[4311.08 --> 4312.46] in the words -[4312.46 --> 4312.72] of the -[4312.72 --> 4313.12] Heidelberg -[4313.12 --> 4313.72] Catechism, -[4314.50 --> 4315.56] there's a lot -[4315.56 --> 4316.22] of people here -[4316.22 --> 4316.72] who have a -[4316.72 --> 4317.54] deep love for -[4317.54 --> 4318.04] question and -[4318.04 --> 4318.74] answer one, -[4320.08 --> 4320.72] but then they -[4320.72 --> 4321.50] have neither -[4321.50 --> 4322.76] read or have -[4322.76 --> 4323.80] forgotten the -[4323.80 --> 4324.14] rest. -[4325.28 --> 4326.06] But to my -[4326.06 --> 4326.48] mind, -[4327.56 --> 4327.96] question and -[4327.96 --> 4328.62] answer 27 -[4328.62 --> 4329.26] and 28 -[4329.26 --> 4330.78] might rival -[4330.78 --> 4331.34] question and -[4331.34 --> 4331.96] answer one -[4331.96 --> 4332.68] for its -[4332.68 --> 4333.66] beauty and -[4333.66 --> 4334.18] its import. -[4334.60 --> 4334.98] So I want to -[4334.98 --> 4335.34] share that -[4335.34 --> 4335.72] with you. -[4337.98 --> 4338.78] The question -[4338.78 --> 4339.26] asked is, -[4339.36 --> 4339.78] what do you -[4339.78 --> 4340.76] understand by -[4340.76 --> 4341.40] the providence -[4341.40 --> 4341.92] of God? -[4343.02 --> 4343.58] And hear these -[4343.58 --> 4343.86] words. -[4345.02 --> 4345.96] The almighty, -[4346.58 --> 4347.66] ever-present -[4347.66 --> 4348.92] power of God -[4348.92 --> 4349.98] by which He -[4349.98 --> 4350.66] upholds, -[4350.70 --> 4351.46] as with His -[4351.46 --> 4352.26] hand, heaven -[4352.26 --> 4353.08] and earth -[4353.08 --> 4353.56] and all -[4353.56 --> 4353.98] creatures, -[4354.40 --> 4355.00] and so -[4355.00 --> 4356.06] rules them -[4356.06 --> 4356.82] that leaf -[4356.82 --> 4357.64] and blade, -[4357.90 --> 4358.56] rain and -[4358.56 --> 4358.88] drought, -[4359.28 --> 4360.02] fruitful and -[4360.02 --> 4360.66] lean years, -[4361.00 --> 4361.76] food and -[4361.76 --> 4362.14] drink, -[4362.46 --> 4363.18] health and -[4363.18 --> 4363.56] sickness, -[4363.80 --> 4365.00] prosperity and -[4365.00 --> 4365.48] poverty, -[4365.84 --> 4367.00] all things, -[4367.20 --> 4367.72] in fact, -[4368.06 --> 4368.80] come to us -[4368.80 --> 4370.24] not by chance -[4370.24 --> 4371.88] but by His -[4371.88 --> 4373.78] fatherly hand. -[4375.24 --> 4375.90] And then the -[4375.90 --> 4376.58] question follows, -[4376.66 --> 4377.08] well how does -[4377.08 --> 4377.82] this knowledge of -[4377.82 --> 4378.64] creation and -[4378.64 --> 4379.12] providence, -[4379.24 --> 4380.12] this omni-comfort -[4380.12 --> 4380.58] of God, -[4380.64 --> 4381.42] how does this -[4381.42 --> 4382.48] help us? -[4383.60 --> 4384.44] And the answer, -[4384.56 --> 4385.14] we can be -[4385.14 --> 4386.46] patient when -[4386.46 --> 4386.94] things go -[4386.94 --> 4387.64] against us, -[4387.84 --> 4388.62] thankful when -[4388.62 --> 4389.44] things go -[4389.44 --> 4389.82] well, -[4390.02 --> 4390.68] and for the -[4390.68 --> 4391.38] future we -[4391.38 --> 4392.14] can have good -[4392.14 --> 4393.04] confidence in -[4393.04 --> 4393.76] our faithful -[4393.76 --> 4395.00] God and -[4395.00 --> 4395.70] Father that -[4395.70 --> 4396.92] nothing in -[4396.92 --> 4397.58] all of -[4397.58 --> 4398.38] creation will -[4398.38 --> 4399.30] separate us -[4399.30 --> 4400.00] from His -[4400.00 --> 4400.26] love, -[4400.34 --> 4401.18] for all -[4401.18 --> 4401.86] creatures are -[4401.86 --> 4403.00] so completely -[4403.00 --> 4403.82] in God's -[4403.82 --> 4404.26] hand that -[4404.26 --> 4404.90] without His -[4404.90 --> 4405.40] will they -[4405.40 --> 4405.76] can neither -[4405.76 --> 4407.76] move nor -[4407.76 --> 4408.84] be moved. -[4410.12 --> 4411.12] God is. -[4411.12 --> 4411.52] Now, -[4412.04 --> 4414.24] people don't -[4414.24 --> 4414.96] talk like that -[4414.96 --> 4415.28] anymore. -[4417.58 --> 4418.44] But maybe we -[4418.44 --> 4418.70] should. -[4420.32 --> 4420.96] Maybe we -[4420.96 --> 4421.26] should hold -[4421.26 --> 4422.12] this truth -[4422.12 --> 4422.62] of who God -[4422.62 --> 4423.14] is in front -[4423.14 --> 4423.88] of us as -[4423.88 --> 4424.38] we look back -[4424.38 --> 4424.98] on 2023 -[4424.98 --> 4425.78] and as we -[4425.78 --> 4426.08] go into -[4426.08 --> 4426.68] 2024. -[4427.44 --> 4428.08] When you -[4428.08 --> 4429.40] understand who -[4429.40 --> 4430.44] God is, -[4430.52 --> 4431.14] you can better -[4431.14 --> 4432.34] understand where -[4432.34 --> 4434.12] God is. -[4434.12 --> 4434.18] God is. -[4435.76 --> 4436.36] And so, -[4437.12 --> 4439.84] after service, -[4440.20 --> 4440.96] if you go to -[4440.96 --> 4441.36] the Connect -[4441.36 --> 4441.88] booth, -[4442.72 --> 4443.16] there will -[4443.16 --> 4444.64] be a -[4444.64 --> 4446.62] printing of -[4446.62 --> 4447.28] question and -[4447.28 --> 4448.14] answer 27 and -[4448.14 --> 4448.78] 28 from the -[4448.78 --> 4449.06] Heidelberg -[4449.06 --> 4450.30] Catechism that -[4450.30 --> 4450.60] we want to -[4450.60 --> 4451.08] give to you. -[4451.44 --> 4451.80] And you can -[4451.80 --> 4452.08] put it on -[4452.08 --> 4452.66] your fridge, -[4453.14 --> 4453.90] you can put -[4453.90 --> 4454.42] it on your -[4454.42 --> 4455.90] message board -[4455.90 --> 4456.40] or your -[4456.40 --> 4457.40] poster board -[4457.40 --> 4458.18] or whatever -[4458.18 --> 4458.74] it is that -[4458.74 --> 4459.24] you have in -[4459.24 --> 4459.64] your house -[4459.64 --> 4459.94] where you -[4459.94 --> 4460.56] post things -[4460.56 --> 4461.08] to keep in -[4461.08 --> 4461.46] front of you -[4461.46 --> 4461.88] always. -[4461.88 --> 4462.58] We want to -[4462.58 --> 4463.12] give that to -[4463.12 --> 4463.62] you so that -[4463.62 --> 4464.12] you can take -[4464.12 --> 4464.82] it and just -[4464.82 --> 4466.40] see it for -[4466.40 --> 4466.84] the rest of -[4466.84 --> 4467.14] the year. -[4467.92 --> 4468.48] This is who -[4468.48 --> 4468.96] God is. -[4470.56 --> 4470.76] And so, -[4470.84 --> 4471.04] there's a -[4471.04 --> 4471.72] hundred copies -[4471.72 --> 4472.20] back there. -[4472.74 --> 4472.84] So, -[4472.90 --> 4473.22] the first -[4473.22 --> 4474.96] hundred get -[4474.96 --> 4475.52] to go and -[4475.52 --> 4475.82] get it. -[4476.02 --> 4476.52] If we need -[4476.52 --> 4476.82] more, -[4476.96 --> 4477.36] we'll figure -[4477.36 --> 4477.74] out a way. -[4477.84 --> 4478.08] We'll put -[4478.08 --> 4478.40] them in the -[4478.40 --> 4478.82] bulletin or -[4478.82 --> 4479.26] something this -[4479.26 --> 4479.48] week. -[4480.26 --> 4480.80] But please, -[4481.32 --> 4482.02] think about -[4482.02 --> 4482.50] whether or not -[4482.50 --> 4483.18] you go and -[4483.18 --> 4484.22] grab one and -[4484.22 --> 4484.94] put it somewhere -[4484.94 --> 4486.84] prominent as -[4486.84 --> 4487.54] you enter into -[4487.54 --> 4488.96] this year. -[4489.90 --> 4490.40] Because no -[4490.40 --> 4490.72] matter what -[4490.72 --> 4491.30] kind of year -[4491.30 --> 4491.64] you have -[4491.64 --> 4492.04] had, -[4493.02 --> 4493.52] it's not -[4493.52 --> 4494.56] about pessimism -[4494.56 --> 4495.46] or optimism, -[4495.70 --> 4495.88] it's not -[4495.88 --> 4496.52] about apathy -[4496.52 --> 4497.66] or even hope, -[4498.26 --> 4498.92] it's about -[4498.92 --> 4499.74] God. -[4500.94 --> 4502.52] God is -[4502.52 --> 4503.40] God, -[4503.78 --> 4505.74] always and -[4505.74 --> 4506.92] in all -[4506.92 --> 4507.80] ways. -[4508.34 --> 4508.54] Amen? -[4509.30 --> 4510.02] Amen. -[4510.22 --> 4510.50] Let's pray -[4510.50 --> 4510.80] together. -[4510.80 --> 4518.74] holy, -[4519.54 --> 4520.12] majestic, -[4520.82 --> 4522.64] amazing God. -[4524.32 --> 4525.28] We come -[4525.28 --> 4526.48] to you now -[4526.48 --> 4527.22] at the end -[4527.22 --> 4528.08] of this year. -[4528.18 --> 4528.74] We come to -[4528.74 --> 4529.12] you now -[4529.12 --> 4529.92] looking forward -[4529.92 --> 4531.04] to the next -[4531.04 --> 4531.46] year. -[4531.76 --> 4532.48] We come to -[4532.48 --> 4533.12] you to -[4533.12 --> 4534.52] experience your -[4534.52 --> 4535.54] omni-comfort, -[4535.54 --> 4536.68] to experience -[4536.68 --> 4537.56] and to -[4537.56 --> 4538.42] know your -[4538.42 --> 4539.26] providential -[4539.26 --> 4540.36] hand at -[4540.36 --> 4540.88] work in -[4540.88 --> 4541.64] us and -[4541.64 --> 4542.36] through us -[4542.36 --> 4543.42] and for -[4543.42 --> 4543.72] us. -[4543.84 --> 4544.64] And so we -[4544.64 --> 4544.92] pray, -[4545.08 --> 4545.48] Lord God, -[4545.56 --> 4546.10] give us -[4546.10 --> 4546.78] eyes to -[4546.78 --> 4547.58] see most -[4547.58 --> 4548.56] clearly today -[4548.56 --> 4549.58] you at -[4549.58 --> 4550.06] work in -[4550.06 --> 4550.44] the world. -[4551.84 --> 4552.66] And when we -[4552.66 --> 4553.02] don't have -[4553.02 --> 4553.94] eyes to see, -[4554.12 --> 4554.54] Lord God, -[4554.70 --> 4555.52] I pray that -[4555.52 --> 4555.88] by your -[4555.88 --> 4556.36] spirit you -[4556.36 --> 4556.66] would give -[4556.66 --> 4557.30] us hearts -[4557.30 --> 4557.94] of faith -[4557.94 --> 4558.82] to trust -[4558.82 --> 4559.94] that you -[4559.94 --> 4561.12] are at -[4561.12 --> 4561.76] work. -[4561.76 --> 4563.72] and that -[4563.72 --> 4564.32] in all -[4564.32 --> 4565.10] things and -[4565.10 --> 4565.94] through all -[4565.94 --> 4566.96] things you -[4566.96 --> 4568.30] will be -[4568.30 --> 4569.54] glorified. -[4570.86 --> 4571.58] That no -[4571.58 --> 4572.34] matter what -[4572.34 --> 4573.20] trials and -[4573.20 --> 4574.06] tribulations we -[4574.06 --> 4574.76] might face -[4574.76 --> 4575.88] now in this -[4575.88 --> 4576.72] moment, no -[4576.72 --> 4577.06] matter what -[4577.06 --> 4578.18] present sufferings -[4578.18 --> 4579.06] we might be -[4579.06 --> 4579.64] enduring, no -[4579.64 --> 4580.16] matter what -[4580.16 --> 4581.22] groanings of -[4581.22 --> 4582.08] creation we -[4582.08 --> 4583.20] might hear and -[4583.20 --> 4584.26] share, that -[4584.26 --> 4585.08] we know -[4585.08 --> 4586.96] that all -[4586.96 --> 4588.28] things will -[4588.28 --> 4588.90] work together -[4588.90 --> 4589.60] for the good -[4589.60 --> 4590.84] of those who -[4590.84 --> 4591.42] love you and -[4591.42 --> 4591.62] who have -[4591.62 --> 4592.12] been called -[4592.12 --> 4592.84] according to -[4592.84 --> 4594.06] your purpose. -[4594.30 --> 4595.14] And so fill -[4595.14 --> 4596.22] us now with -[4596.22 --> 4597.40] your purpose, -[4597.56 --> 4598.28] Lord God, the -[4598.28 --> 4599.14] purpose to -[4599.14 --> 4600.68] glorify yourself -[4600.68 --> 4601.94] among us. -[4604.18 --> 4605.44] May this -[4605.44 --> 4606.90] year, past -[4606.90 --> 4607.96] and coming, -[4608.58 --> 4609.68] be for that -[4609.68 --> 4611.36] purpose together. -[4612.12 --> 4612.60] In Jesus -[4612.60 --> 4613.60] Christ we pray -[4613.60 --> 4614.46] and all God's -[4614.46 --> 4614.92] people said, -[4615.54 --> 4616.04] Amen. -[4621.42 --> 4624.56] let's stand and -[4624.56 --> 4625.14] join our voices -[4625.14 --> 4625.56] together. -[4625.56 --> 4628.56] Let's stand and -[4628.56 --> 4629.14] join our voices -[4629.14 --> 4629.56] together. -[4629.56 --> 4642.46] should nothing of -[4642.46 --> 4644.96] our efforts stand, -[4644.96 --> 4647.44] no legacy -[4647.44 --> 4649.02] survive, -[4649.02 --> 4653.66] unless the Lord -[4653.66 --> 4656.32] does raise the house, -[4656.32 --> 4658.52] in vain, -[4658.52 --> 4658.54] in vain, -[4658.54 --> 4659.72] its builders -[4659.72 --> 4660.78] strive. -[4662.52 --> 4663.84] To you -[4663.84 --> 4665.30] who boast -[4665.30 --> 4667.86] tomorrow's game, -[4668.22 --> 4669.58] tell me -[4669.58 --> 4670.96] what is -[4670.96 --> 4673.16] your life, -[4673.70 --> 4675.42] amidst -[4675.42 --> 4675.74] the -[4675.74 --> 4677.26] vanishes -[4677.26 --> 4678.92] at dawn, -[4679.22 --> 4681.16] all glory -[4681.16 --> 4684.16] be to Christ. -[4684.16 --> 4686.56] All glory -[4686.56 --> 4689.00] be to Christ, -[4689.12 --> 4689.74] our King, -[4690.06 --> 4691.82] all glory -[4691.82 --> 4694.16] be to Christ. -[4695.16 --> 4696.16] His rule -[4696.84 --> 4697.16] and reign -[4697.76 --> 4700.12] will ever sing, -[4700.38 --> 4702.16] all glory -[4702.16 --> 4704.16] be to Christ. -[4707.84 --> 4709.16] His will -[4709.16 --> 4710.68] will be done, -[4710.80 --> 4712.34] His kingdom -[4712.34 --> 4712.94] come, -[4713.20 --> 4714.82] all earth -[4714.82 --> 4715.80] as it -[4715.80 --> 4716.68] is above. -[4718.14 --> 4719.86] Who is -[4719.86 --> 4720.68] Himself -[4720.68 --> 4721.36] our -[4721.36 --> 4722.36] day -[4722.36 --> 4722.92] and -[4722.92 --> 4724.86] praise Him, -[4724.94 --> 4725.84] the Lord -[4725.84 --> 4726.38] of -[4726.38 --> 4727.70] love. -[4728.22 --> 4730.10] Let living -[4730.10 --> 4731.18] waters -[4731.18 --> 4733.06] satisfy -[4733.06 --> 4734.98] the thirsty -[4734.98 --> 4736.26] without -[4736.26 --> 4737.76] rise. -[4737.76 --> 4739.88] will take -[4739.88 --> 4740.82] the cup -[4740.82 --> 4741.38] of -[4741.38 --> 4742.60] kindness -[4742.60 --> 4743.04] yet, -[4743.32 --> 4744.92] all glory -[4744.92 --> 4746.14] be to -[4746.14 --> 4747.60] Christ. -[4748.12 --> 4749.82] All glory -[4749.82 --> 4751.04] be to -[4751.04 --> 4752.18] Christ, -[4752.28 --> 4752.88] our King, -[4753.10 --> 4754.72] all glory -[4754.72 --> 4755.98] be to -[4755.98 --> 4757.50] Christ. -[4757.92 --> 4759.56] His rule -[4759.56 --> 4760.42] and reign -[4760.42 --> 4762.10] will ever -[4762.10 --> 4762.60] sing, -[4762.90 --> 4764.54] all glory -[4764.54 --> 4765.78] be to -[4765.78 --> 4767.86] Christ. -[4769.86 --> 4772.08] When on -[4772.08 --> 4773.02] the day -[4773.02 --> 4774.60] the great -[4774.60 --> 4775.52] I am, -[4775.60 --> 4777.28] the faithful -[4777.28 --> 4778.66] and the -[4778.66 --> 4779.38] true, -[4780.38 --> 4782.26] the Lamb -[4782.26 --> 4783.18] who was -[4783.18 --> 4784.92] for sinners -[4784.92 --> 4785.46] slain, -[4785.68 --> 4787.32] is making -[4787.32 --> 4788.66] all things -[4788.66 --> 4789.82] new. -[4790.54 --> 4792.04] Behold, -[4792.04 --> 4792.94] our God -[4792.94 --> 4794.56] shall live -[4794.56 --> 4795.28] with us -[4795.28 --> 4796.60] and be -[4796.60 --> 4797.26] our -[4797.26 --> 4798.36] steadfast -[4798.36 --> 4799.66] life, -[4800.16 --> 4801.34] and we -[4801.34 --> 4802.06] shall -[4802.06 --> 4803.14] let His -[4803.14 --> 4804.88] people be, -[4805.00 --> 4806.66] all glory -[4806.66 --> 4807.78] be to -[4807.78 --> 4809.22] Christ. -[4809.22 --> 4811.44] All glory -[4811.44 --> 4812.60] be to -[4812.60 --> 4813.60] Christ, -[4813.68 --> 4814.42] our King, -[4814.58 --> 4816.14] all glory -[4816.14 --> 4817.28] be to -[4817.28 --> 4818.62] Christ. -[4818.62 --> 4820.66] His rule -[4820.66 --> 4821.50] and reign -[4821.50 --> 4823.08] will ever -[4823.08 --> 4823.66] sing, -[4823.88 --> 4825.40] all glory -[4825.40 --> 4826.56] be to -[4826.56 --> 4827.90] Christ. -[4828.36 --> 4830.08] All glory -[4830.08 --> 4831.30] be to -[4831.30 --> 4832.32] Christ, -[4832.42 --> 4833.12] our King, -[4833.36 --> 4834.94] all glory -[4834.94 --> 4836.16] be to -[4836.16 --> 4837.56] Christ. -[4838.08 --> 4839.68] His rule -[4839.68 --> 4840.52] and reign -[4840.52 --> 4842.24] will ever -[4842.24 --> 4842.82] sing, -[4843.14 --> 4844.94] all glory -[4844.94 --> 4846.38] be to -[4846.38 --> 4847.42] Christ. -[4848.62 --> 4857.96] as go -[4857.96 --> 4858.68] into -[4858.68 --> 4859.52] today, -[4859.72 --> 4860.28] as you -[4860.28 --> 4861.20] go into -[4861.20 --> 4861.98] the next -[4861.98 --> 4862.52] year, -[4862.92 --> 4863.58] know that -[4863.58 --> 4864.26] God Himself -[4864.26 --> 4865.98] goes with -[4865.98 --> 4866.32] us. -[4866.84 --> 4867.76] Go also -[4867.76 --> 4868.14] with an -[4868.14 --> 4868.56] invitation -[4868.56 --> 4869.46] following our -[4869.46 --> 4869.80] worship, -[4869.92 --> 4870.04] there will -[4870.04 --> 4870.42] be some -[4870.42 --> 4871.12] refreshments, -[4871.26 --> 4871.98] please hang -[4871.98 --> 4872.26] out, -[4872.42 --> 4872.84] fellowship -[4872.84 --> 4874.46] together at -[4874.46 --> 4874.88] the back, -[4875.14 --> 4875.52] connecting -[4875.52 --> 4876.40] with one -[4876.40 --> 4876.70] another. -[4877.28 --> 4877.94] If you -[4877.94 --> 4878.42] would like -[4878.42 --> 4879.52] to be -[4879.52 --> 4880.24] prayed with -[4880.24 --> 4880.96] or over, -[4881.12 --> 4881.56] there is -[4881.56 --> 4882.18] someone who -[4882.18 --> 4882.58] will come -[4882.58 --> 4883.06] up here -[4883.06 --> 4883.42] to the -[4883.42 --> 4883.68] front, -[4883.80 --> 4884.08] they'll have -[4884.08 --> 4884.40] a name -[4884.40 --> 4884.88] tag on -[4884.88 --> 4885.12] with a -[4885.12 --> 4885.54] little yellow -[4885.54 --> 4885.88] square, -[4886.00 --> 4886.20] they would -[4886.20 --> 4886.52] love to -[4886.52 --> 4887.00] meet you -[4887.00 --> 4887.90] and pray -[4887.90 --> 4888.34] with you, -[4889.00 --> 4889.64] but of -[4889.64 --> 4890.02] course, -[4890.44 --> 4891.02] so would -[4891.02 --> 4891.70] most any -[4891.70 --> 4892.30] of us -[4892.30 --> 4892.66] here, -[4893.06 --> 4893.42] and so -[4893.42 --> 4893.86] turn to -[4893.86 --> 4894.22] the person -[4894.22 --> 4894.80] beside you -[4894.80 --> 4895.16] if you -[4895.16 --> 4895.58] would love -[4895.58 --> 4896.40] and like -[4896.40 --> 4896.80] prayer -[4896.80 --> 4897.30] together. -[4898.50 --> 4898.98] Lastly, -[4899.18 --> 4899.96] just one -[4899.96 --> 4900.60] more reminder, -[4900.94 --> 4901.40] come to the -[4901.40 --> 4902.00] Connect booth -[4902.00 --> 4902.58] if you'd like -[4902.58 --> 4903.36] to get one -[4903.36 --> 4903.90] of those -[4903.90 --> 4904.74] question-answer -[4904.74 --> 4906.02] 27-28 cards -[4906.02 --> 4906.62] to take home, -[4906.62 --> 4907.50] or if you'd -[4907.50 --> 4907.92] like to -[4907.92 --> 4908.64] connect with -[4908.64 --> 4908.82] me. -[4909.30 --> 4910.12] We've had a lot -[4910.12 --> 4910.52] of guests -[4910.52 --> 4911.02] with us -[4911.02 --> 4911.42] in the last -[4911.42 --> 4911.66] while, -[4911.74 --> 4911.92] and so -[4911.92 --> 4913.04] please find -[4913.04 --> 4913.58] me at the -[4913.58 --> 4914.10] Connect booth -[4914.10 --> 4914.36] there, -[4914.44 --> 4914.82] and I can -[4914.82 --> 4915.22] answer any -[4915.22 --> 4915.76] questions you -[4915.76 --> 4916.16] might have. -[4916.60 --> 4917.28] Now with -[4917.28 --> 4917.84] the blessing -[4917.84 --> 4918.92] of our God. -[4920.68 --> 4921.50] God, go -[4921.50 --> 4922.30] before you -[4922.30 --> 4923.32] to lead you. -[4924.02 --> 4924.54] God, go -[4924.54 --> 4925.14] behind you -[4925.14 --> 4925.68] to protect -[4925.68 --> 4926.00] you. -[4926.28 --> 4926.88] God, go -[4926.88 --> 4927.54] beneath you -[4927.54 --> 4928.18] to support -[4928.18 --> 4928.52] you, -[4928.60 --> 4929.28] and God, -[4929.40 --> 4930.20] go beside -[4930.20 --> 4930.88] you to -[4930.88 --> 4931.56] befriend you. -[4932.10 --> 4932.66] Do not -[4932.66 --> 4934.28] be afraid. -[4934.28 --> 4934.34] afraid. -[4935.04 --> 4935.46] Let the -[4935.46 --> 4936.00] blessing of -[4936.00 --> 4936.42] God come -[4936.42 --> 4936.84] upon you -[4936.84 --> 4937.08] today. -[4937.22 --> 4937.64] Do not -[4937.64 --> 4938.60] be afraid, -[4939.00 --> 4939.56] but go -[4939.56 --> 4940.64] in peace -[4940.64 --> 4941.62] to love -[4941.62 --> 4942.58] and serve -[4942.58 --> 4943.30] the Lord. -[4944.36 --> 4944.92] Amen. -[4944.92 --> 4945.06] Amen. -[4945.06 --> 4945.12] Amen. -[4945.12 --> 4947.14] Amen. -[4947.14 --> 4951.12] Amen. -[4951.12 --> 4966.10] Oh, Lord, bless you. -[4966.94 --> 4969.22] I'll keep you. -[4970.14 --> 4973.36] Make your face shine upon you. -[4973.72 --> 4976.04] Be gracious to you. -[4976.04 --> 4986.76] Lord, turn his face toward you and give you peace. -[4991.42 --> 4997.68] Lord, bless you and keep you. -[4998.34 --> 5001.46] Make his face shine upon you. -[5001.84 --> 5004.14] Be gracious to you. -[5004.14 --> 5015.14] Lord, turn his face toward you and give you peace. -[5015.14 --> 5017.14] Amen. -[5017.14 --> 5022.14] Amen. -[5022.14 --> 5023.14] Amen. -[5023.14 --> 5023.64] Amen. -[5024.14 --> 5025.14] Amen. -[5025.14 --> 5025.74] Amen. -[5025.74 --> 5029.14] Amen. -[5029.14 --> 5033.14] Amen. -[5033.14 --> 5041.24] Amen, Amen, Amen. -[5043.82 --> 5050.34] Lord bless you and keep you. -[5050.34 --> 5054.08] May His face shine upon you. -[5054.44 --> 5056.80] Be gracious to you. -[5057.22 --> 5062.56] Lord turn His face toward you. -[5063.14 --> 5067.94] And give you peace. -[5071.94 --> 5081.02] Amen, Amen, Amen. -[5083.16 --> 5089.82] Amen, Amen. -[5089.82 --> 5092.82] Amen, Amen. -[5093.14 --> 5093.78] Amen. -[5093.78 --> 5094.78] Amen. -[5123.78 --> 5124.78] Amen. -[5153.78 --> 5155.78] Amen. -[5183.78 --> 5185.78] Amen. -[5186.78 --> 5188.78] Amen. -[5190.78 --> 5194.78] Amen. -[5195.78 --> 5197.78] Amen. -[5198.78 --> 5200.78] Amen. -[5202.78 --> 5206.78] Amen. -[5207.78 --> 5209.78] Amen, -[5209.78 --> 5210.50] Amen. -[5212.50 --> 5213.22] Amen. -[5216.44 --> 5217.40] Go in peace. -[5239.78 --> 5241.78] Amen. -[5269.78 --> 5271.78] Amen. -[5299.78 --> 5301.78] Amen. -[5329.78 --> 5331.78] Amen. -[5359.78 --> 5361.78] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 8, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 8, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2342fa52503b236a7815a75e8321e2123c76a89e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 8, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,135 +0,0 @@ -• Hopes and expectations during Christmas -• Chaos and uncertainty in the world -• Economic concerns (tariffs) -• Desire for peace and settled assurance -• Feeling alone in struggles -• Weight of Christmas season emotions -• The speaker suggests that Jesus is the unexpected hope for this season -• Isaiah, a 7th/8th century prophet, provides a message of hope in the face of impending exile and destruction -• The prophecy describes Assyria's conquest and destruction of Israel, but also God's promise to restore Israel and destroy Assyria -• The imagery used includes forests being cut down by an axe, with Assyria and Lebanon (a major city and economic hub) being compared to forests that will be destroyed -• The speaker implies that Jesus is the true hope for addressing the problems and longings of the heart, rather than other things like material possessions or political change -• Solomon's use of cedars from Lebanon to build the temple in 1 Kings 5 -• Isaiah's judgment oracle against Israel's idolatry and Assyria's abuses, with God promising to cut them down but also holding out hope -• The image of a clear-cut forest with stumps remaining, representing destruction and judgment -• The promise that from one of these stumps, a tiny shoot will spring, symbolizing hope and new life -• Jesse as the father of David, the great king of Israel, and how God's promise to him is being fulfilled in Isaiah 7 -• The distinction between the royal house and the true source of God's promise, which is not about human lineage but about God Himself -• Salvation and judgment are from God. -• Redemption is a gift of grace and faithful to his promise. -• The Messiah will be both man and the Lord. -• Jeremiah personifies the branch as the Lord our righteous Savior, confirming that the Messiah will be both human and divine. -• Zechariah adds that the branch will be a priest who sits on a throne and is given a crown. -• The definition of Messiah comes from the Hebrew word Meshach, which means oil. -• A person anointed with oil is referred to as the Messiah. -• The title Messiah has been recognized by Jews for centuries in Psalm 2 and Isaiah chapter 61. -• These passages describe the Lord's anointed one and the spirit of the sovereign Lord on a specific individual. -• Setting of a proclamation to proclaim freedom for captives -• Reference to Daniel 9, specifically the 70 weeks of years leading up to Jerusalem's restoration -• Discussion of the anointed one who will rebuild Jerusalem and its significance -• Mention of the ruler coming after the anointed one and the associated time period -• Explanation of how the numbers in Daniel 9 relate to the timeline of events -• Daniel's conclusion -• God removing sin and establishing righteousness through his anointed one -• The anointed one being the Messiah and the hope of salvation -• Jesus as the only person who fits this description -• Isaiah confirming that the spirit of the Lord will rest on him -• The passage from Matthew 3:16 -• Jesus being baptized and the Holy Spirit descending like a dove -• Quotes from the Bible (Matthew 3:16-17, Luke 4:16) -• Reference to Isaiah 61 -• Jesus reading from Isaiah in Nazareth in Luke 4:16 -• A man goes into a synagogue -• He reads from the scroll of Isaiah, specifically the passage about the spirit of the Lord being on him to proclaim good news and freedom to the oppressed -• The scripture is said to be fulfilled in their hearing -• He rolls up the scroll and gives it back to the attendant, then sits down with everyone's eyes fixed on him -• The hope for Messiah is fulfilled in Jesus -• Jesus will not judge based on what he sees or hears, but knows the thoughts and intentions of people's hearts -• Jesus' ability to know people's thoughts and intentions makes judgment unnecessary in some cases -• God judges with righteousness and justice -• Jesus' message to the poor -• The kingdom of God and its description in Luke 14 -• The concept of a doctor for the healthy, but not for the sick -• The idea that sinners are called to repentance, not the righteous -• The use of the rod of his mouth as a metaphor -• Jesus' portrayal in Revelation, specifically with a sword coming out of his mouth -• Eternal life and judgment of the wicked -• Righteousness as a belt and faithfulness as a sash (Hebrews 1) -• Jesus' throne and scepter of justice in God's kingdom -• Loving righteousness and hating wickedness -• Revelation 19: The rider on the white horse is called faithful and true, Jesus is the hope of and for the Messiah -• Reality is chaos and confusion -• Answer to chaos and confusion is a Messiah named Jesus -• Question of whether Jesus can provide hope for people suffering from war, displacement, and hardship -• Concept that Jesus may be the deeper longing or hope that people are searching for but not aware of -• Reflection on how people may not recognize Jesus when He comes -• Misplaced hopes, longings, and desires -• Pursuing a new path or change in life -• Concept of "perfectly designed" life theory -• Need for structure and different results -• Reference to Jesus as the Messiah and picture of hope -• Importance of faith and miracles in changing lives -• Interpretation of a biblical passage from Isaiah about coexistence and harmony among creatures -• Discussion of the meaning of the passage, specifically regarding wolves and lambs living together -• Mention of scholarly debate surrounding the interpretation of this passage in religious studies -• Reference to the idea that the earth will be filled with knowledge of the Lord -• Metaphorical image of the world being rewritten in the revelation of God's kingdom -• Image representing contradictions and chaos, yet holding potential for peace, wholeness, and restoration -• The Messiah brings resolution to life's struggles and this image is given as a representation for us -• Availability of the message for individuals right now and in their current situation -• The Messiah's coming brings truth and fulfillment -• Hope for Christmas is a two-step process, already present yet not yet realized -• People sit in midst of chaos with longings and cryings -• Eyes are fixed on the day when the lion and yearling will lay down together -• The story we need to hear is of peace between nations -• Inviting listeners to welcome and receive Jesus as the hope of the season -• Praying for peace, wholeness, and an image of hope in the world -• Acknowledging God's gift of a picture of magnificence and beauty in creation -• Requesting that God reworks the structure and order of the world to bring peace and wholeness -• Coming to Jesus as Messiah, Anointed One, Branch of Jesse, and bearing fruit in hearts -• Growing faith deep in souls and minds and being sent out with conviction -• The Lord's Supper is a memorial of Christ's sacrifice -• The truth of God's word can be taken and hung onto -• The Lord's Supper is not just a memorial, but also a means to take in the truth of God's word -• The liturgy of the church carries us forward towards meeting Jesus -• Presence of the Lord -• Invitation to lift hearts and give thanks -• Prayer together with joy -• Praise for creation, heaven, earth, and humanity -• Thanks for Jesus Christ and his sacrifice -• Commemoration of the Last Supper and betrayal -• Institution of the Eucharist (bread and body) -• The Lord's death and resurrection -• Proclamation of faith through the Eucharist -• Invitation to partake in the sacrament -• Expression of hope for Christ's coming again -• Celebration of God's glory and salvation -• Invitation to Jesus Christ -• Christmas celebration and the Lord's presence -• The church as a family gathering together -• Sharing communion (bread and juice) and its significance -• Passing of the bread and juice around the table -• Acknowledging the body of Christ given for each individual -• Instructions to say the blood of Christ was shed for you -• Instructions on how to receive communion if unable to come to the front -• Availability of gluten-free bread at each tray -• Opportunity to meet someone for prayer during the service -• Presence of people with yellow name tags at the back -• Invitation to pray with others before or after a specific event -• Request for help from elders, worship leaders, and community members -• Explanation of seating arrangement at an event, with certain groups receiving priority seating -• Reference to the value of selfless love (specifically the "j" and "d" levels) -• Prolonged repetition of "thank you" -• Singing of a hymn ("Oh come let us adore") -• The birth and life of Emmanuel -• His suffering and death on the cross -• His power to heal and save -• His glory in heaven -• Praise and worship to Emmanuel's name -• Repeated declarations of "Alleluia" throughout -• Jesus Christ as the Son of God, Prince of Peace, and Savior -• Jesus' characteristics: Wonderful Counselor, Light of the world, Lord above all names, Blessed Redeemer, Emmanuel -• Jesus' sacrifice: He became sin, carried the cross, died for sinners, gave His body and blood -• The hope and glory that is in Jesus Christ -• The power and presence of God with those who follow Jesus -• Start of recording session \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, December 8, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, December 8, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index bf0df4f2cfe440bd1f9753fc526a7fd42a076644..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, December 8, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3375 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 599.98] Thank you. -[600.00 --> 629.98] Thank you. -[630.00 --> 659.98] Thank you. -[660.00 --> 689.98] Thank you. -[690.00 --> 719.98] Thank you. -[720.00 --> 749.98] Thank you. -[750.00 --> 779.98] Thank you. -[780.00 --> 809.98] Thank you. -[810.00 --> 839.98] Thank you. -[840.00 --> 869.98] Thank you. -[870.00 --> 899.98] Thank you. -[900.00 --> 929.98] Thank you. -[930.00 --> 959.98] Thank you. -[960.00 --> 989.98] Thank you. -[990.00 --> 1019.98] Thank you. -[1020.00 --> 1049.98] Thank you. -[1050.00 --> 1079.98] Thank you. -[1080.00 --> 1109.98] Thank you. -[1110.00 --> 1139.98] Thank you. -[1140.00 --> 1169.98] Thank you. -[1170.00 --> 1199.98] Thank you. -[1200.00 --> 1229.98] Thank you. -[1230.00 --> 1259.98] Thank you. -[1260.00 --> 1289.98] Thank you. -[1290.00 --> 1320.00] Thank you. -[1320.00 --> 1349.98] Thank you. -[1350.00 --> 1380.00] Thank you. -[1380.00 --> 1409.98] Thank you. -[1410.00 --> 1440.00] Thank you. -[1440.00 --> 1469.98] Thank you. -[1470.00 --> 1499.98] Thank you. -[1500.00 --> 1529.98] Thank you. -[1530.00 --> 1559.98] Thank you. -[1560.00 --> 1589.98] Thank you. -[1590.00 --> 1619.98] Thank you. -[1620.00 --> 1649.98] Thank you. -[1649.98 --> 1679.96] Thank you. -[1679.98 --> 1709.96] Thank you. -[1709.98 --> 1739.96] Thank you. -[1739.98 --> 1769.96] Thank you. -[1769.98 --> 1799.96] Thank you. -[1799.98 --> 1829.96] Thank you. -[1829.98 --> 1859.96] Thank you. -[1859.98 --> 1889.96] Thank you. -[1889.96 --> 1919.96] Thank you. -[1919.96 --> 1949.94] Thank you. -[1949.94 --> 1979.94] Thank you. -[1979.94 --> 2009.92] Thank you. -[2009.94 --> 2039.92] Thank you. -[2039.94 --> 2069.94] Thank you. -[2069.94 --> 2099.92] Thank you. -[2099.94 --> 2129.94] Thank you. -[2129.94 --> 2159.92] Thank you. -[2159.94 --> 2189.92] Good morning. -[2189.92 --> 2219.90] Thank you. -[2219.90 --> 2249.88] Thank you. -[2249.88 --> 2279.88] Thank you. -[2279.88 --> 2309.86] Thank you. -[2309.88 --> 2339.86] Thank you. -[2339.88 --> 2369.88] Hello. -[2369.88 --> 2399.88] Thank you. -[2399.88 --> 2429.88] Thank you. -[2429.88 --> 2459.86] Thank you. -[2459.88 --> 2489.88] Thank you. -[2489.88 --> 2519.86] Thank you. -[2519.86 --> 2549.84] Thank you. -[2549.86 --> 2579.84] Thank you. -[2579.84 --> 2609.84] Thank you. -[2609.84 --> 2639.84] Thank you. -[2639.84 --> 2669.82] Thank you. -[2669.84 --> 2699.82] Thank you. -[2699.84 --> 2729.82] This Advent. -[2729.84 --> 2759.84] Thank you. -[2759.84 --> 2789.84] Thank you. -[2789.84 --> 2819.84] -[2819.84 --> 2849.84] Thank you. -[2849.84 --> 2879.82] Advent. -[2879.84 --> 2909.84] that last. -[2909.84 --> 2939.84] Thank you. -[2939.86 --> 2969.82] here, vrai lit... -[2969.82 --> 2972.14] Oh, if that other guy gets in. -[2973.72 --> 2976.96] Some of us are looking south of the border and we're like, -[2977.06 --> 2979.38] man, that chaos should finally end. -[2979.52 --> 2983.76] And others of us are like, man, that 25% tariff's really going to do a number to our economy. -[2986.24 --> 2989.40] We all have these hopes and circumstances, -[2989.70 --> 2993.74] and these hopes stretch us toward an idea of peace, -[2994.40 --> 2997.10] an idea of settled assurance. -[2997.10 --> 3002.18] And we just want to find it. -[3003.18 --> 3004.90] And we want it to make sense. -[3005.10 --> 3007.96] And not just to us, but to the people around us, right? -[3008.00 --> 3010.76] We want them to get it so that they can get us -[3010.76 --> 3015.10] and so that we can finally not feel alone in the struggle that we've been carrying. -[3017.14 --> 3021.44] Like, make no mistake about it, for all the happy songs and the joyful music -[3021.44 --> 3025.74] and the nice seasonal lattes at Starbucks, -[3025.74 --> 3028.40] the season of Christmas has a weight to it -[3028.40 --> 3032.26] that is sometimes impossible to put words to. -[3033.82 --> 3038.04] So what is our hope this Christmas season? -[3038.40 --> 3043.16] And can the thing that we are hoping for actually do what we hope it will do? -[3043.16 --> 3048.66] Or is there something deeper, something more, something greater -[3048.66 --> 3053.64] about this time, this season, and this moment? -[3056.12 --> 3058.38] Now it's going to make no surprise to anyone here, -[3058.66 --> 3060.44] because you're here and it's me, -[3060.58 --> 3062.24] I want to suggest this morning -[3062.24 --> 3067.78] that Jesus is your unexpected hope this season. -[3067.78 --> 3071.70] That the thing that you are longing for, -[3071.86 --> 3076.12] the hope that you are putting all your energy towards, -[3076.48 --> 3081.70] actually only rightly is the person of Jesus. -[3083.46 --> 3085.84] And that those other things, -[3085.98 --> 3087.76] whether they're Nintendo Switches -[3087.76 --> 3090.00] or a sea change in the political landscape, -[3090.00 --> 3096.66] are inadequate to solve the problems and longings of our hearts. -[3098.70 --> 3101.26] Now I want to get at that and see that, -[3102.00 --> 3105.84] hopefully in the way that Isaiah does, -[3106.44 --> 3111.20] and the way that he provides a hope for a people. -[3111.36 --> 3116.32] And so Isaiah is a 7th, 8th century prophet in Israel, -[3116.32 --> 3119.12] and he's foretelling of a time -[3119.12 --> 3123.18] when the people of Israel will be taken away into exile -[3123.18 --> 3126.12] because of their sin and their disobedience to God. -[3126.20 --> 3127.58] When another nation will come -[3127.58 --> 3130.30] and will destroy them -[3130.30 --> 3133.16] and will carry them away. -[3134.50 --> 3137.30] And so these people need a word of hope. -[3138.52 --> 3140.28] And that's what's being offered here. -[3141.42 --> 3143.50] Our text starts, if you have it in front of you, -[3143.56 --> 3144.46] in verse 1 it says, -[3144.46 --> 3147.82] a shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse. -[3148.56 --> 3150.30] Now there's some layering of images here -[3150.30 --> 3152.32] that are important for us to understand, -[3152.46 --> 3155.52] to hear the weight of what is going on here. -[3156.18 --> 3159.06] A few chapters before in Isaiah 6, -[3159.88 --> 3163.04] the prophet recalls how God calls him -[3163.04 --> 3165.98] to this ministry of being a prophet, -[3166.22 --> 3169.22] and God tells Isaiah that he, -[3169.70 --> 3172.04] what he will tell to the people of Israel, -[3172.14 --> 3173.60] what message he will give. -[3173.60 --> 3176.74] And part of the description in Isaiah 6, verse 13, -[3177.38 --> 3180.90] is God says that the cities and houses of Israel -[3180.90 --> 3183.14] will be destroyed by Assyria, -[3183.50 --> 3185.02] a nation state to the north, -[3185.30 --> 3188.94] and will be like a forest raised. -[3189.86 --> 3189.96] Right? -[3190.02 --> 3192.06] So only stumps remain. -[3193.70 --> 3195.90] Assyria is the nation state -[3195.90 --> 3198.78] that God will use to punish the Israelites -[3198.78 --> 3201.80] for their idolatry and for their waywardness. -[3201.80 --> 3203.38] But even in that, -[3203.78 --> 3207.10] God uses Isaiah to give the people of Israel a hope. -[3207.70 --> 3207.80] Right? -[3207.82 --> 3208.26] And he says, -[3208.72 --> 3209.18] don't worry, -[3209.40 --> 3212.40] Assyria too will fall under my own judgment. -[3212.40 --> 3215.34] And he promises that Assyria will be destroyed -[3215.34 --> 3218.04] after God has finished using them. -[3218.70 --> 3220.46] So Israel will be restored -[3220.46 --> 3222.62] and Assyria destroyed. -[3222.74 --> 3224.50] And God uses two images -[3224.50 --> 3226.88] to reveal this destruction. -[3228.00 --> 3228.58] He says, -[3228.72 --> 3232.16] Assyria and Israel will be like forests -[3232.16 --> 3235.32] completely and utterly destroyed -[3235.32 --> 3236.86] by an axe. -[3237.54 --> 3239.24] You can read that in Isaiah 10, -[3239.72 --> 3241.44] verse 15, 18, and 19. -[3242.40 --> 3242.98] And in fact, -[3243.06 --> 3244.96] the verses right before ours, -[3245.14 --> 3246.38] the end of chapter 10, -[3247.12 --> 3247.52] read, -[3247.52 --> 3250.52] The Lord Almighty -[3250.52 --> 3252.42] will lop off the boughs -[3252.42 --> 3253.80] with great power. -[3254.04 --> 3256.18] The lofty trees will be felled. -[3256.32 --> 3258.30] The tall ones will be brought low. -[3258.60 --> 3260.66] He will cut down the forest thickets -[3260.66 --> 3261.42] with an axe. -[3261.80 --> 3262.98] Lebanon will fall -[3262.98 --> 3264.60] before the mighty one. -[3266.66 --> 3267.28] Now, Lebanon -[3267.28 --> 3269.76] is a major city, -[3269.96 --> 3271.48] an economic hub -[3271.48 --> 3272.98] to the north of Israel, -[3272.98 --> 3275.60] and it's under Assyrian control -[3275.60 --> 3277.34] by the time of Isaiah. -[3277.92 --> 3279.16] And if you are familiar -[3279.16 --> 3280.86] with the Bible at all, -[3280.96 --> 3282.16] you may have heard -[3282.16 --> 3284.28] the cedars of Lebanon. -[3285.14 --> 3286.20] The cedars of Lebanon -[3286.20 --> 3287.14] are these great, -[3287.56 --> 3288.14] massive, -[3288.48 --> 3290.22] old-growth trees -[3290.22 --> 3291.28] in Lebanon -[3291.28 --> 3292.46] that are prized -[3292.46 --> 3293.88] around the entire -[3293.88 --> 3295.08] ancient Near East -[3295.08 --> 3298.22] as prime building materials. -[3299.18 --> 3300.56] Temples and palaces -[3300.56 --> 3302.36] throughout the region -[3302.36 --> 3304.40] have used cedars -[3304.40 --> 3305.22] from Lebanon -[3305.22 --> 3308.12] to be constructed. -[3308.68 --> 3308.94] In fact, -[3309.04 --> 3310.00] in 1 Kings 5, -[3310.16 --> 3310.82] you can read -[3310.82 --> 3311.44] that Solomon, -[3311.84 --> 3312.66] the son of David, -[3312.84 --> 3313.76] the great king of Israel, -[3313.96 --> 3315.48] used cedars from Lebanon -[3315.48 --> 3317.02] to build the temple. -[3318.78 --> 3320.28] And as a judgment oracle, -[3320.42 --> 3321.56] now here in Isaiah, -[3321.94 --> 3324.14] against Israel's idolatry -[3324.14 --> 3325.76] and Assyria's abuses, -[3326.08 --> 3326.86] God says -[3326.86 --> 3328.30] that he will cut them all down. -[3328.94 --> 3330.86] He will lay them all low -[3330.86 --> 3332.54] that only stumps -[3332.54 --> 3333.70] will remain. -[3334.68 --> 3335.90] The image is kind of like -[3335.90 --> 3337.10] a clear-cut forest. -[3338.40 --> 3339.38] And yet, -[3339.68 --> 3342.60] even in this clear-cut forest, -[3342.60 --> 3344.40] there is hope. -[3345.72 --> 3346.28] Right? -[3346.34 --> 3348.10] Because one of these stumps, -[3348.36 --> 3349.14] we are told, -[3349.82 --> 3350.54] is Jesse. -[3350.54 --> 3350.62] Jesse. -[3351.82 --> 3353.66] And from that stump, -[3354.22 --> 3356.14] a tiny shoot will spring. -[3356.46 --> 3358.00] Even in all of that judgment -[3358.00 --> 3358.76] and destruction, -[3359.36 --> 3360.98] hope springs up. -[3361.22 --> 3363.24] A promise pops through. -[3365.40 --> 3365.70] Now, -[3366.66 --> 3367.64] a little bit of -[3367.64 --> 3369.50] biblical history here. -[3369.78 --> 3372.72] Jesse is the father of David, -[3373.10 --> 3375.50] the great king of Israel. -[3376.50 --> 3376.90] Right? -[3376.90 --> 3377.22] David, -[3377.38 --> 3378.44] we are told over and over -[3378.44 --> 3378.98] and over again, -[3379.04 --> 3380.08] even though he's not near -[3380.08 --> 3381.92] a perfect man -[3381.92 --> 3382.84] or perfect king, -[3382.88 --> 3383.52] we are told that -[3383.52 --> 3385.58] he is a man after God's own heart. -[3386.40 --> 3388.24] And God promised David -[3388.24 --> 3389.68] that of his kingdom -[3389.68 --> 3391.12] there would be no end. -[3392.16 --> 3393.12] He said to him, -[3393.24 --> 3393.98] your house -[3393.98 --> 3395.18] and your kingdom -[3395.18 --> 3396.94] will endure forever -[3396.94 --> 3398.10] before me. -[3398.24 --> 3399.00] Your throne -[3399.00 --> 3400.14] will be established -[3400.14 --> 3400.98] forever. -[3402.26 --> 3403.50] And these are words -[3403.50 --> 3404.74] that are echoed -[3404.74 --> 3405.58] and promised -[3405.58 --> 3406.64] in Isaiah 7, -[3406.72 --> 3408.02] where we looked -[3408.02 --> 3409.00] last time. -[3409.78 --> 3410.56] But now, -[3410.68 --> 3411.52] when Isaiah says -[3411.52 --> 3412.72] that from the stump -[3412.72 --> 3413.52] of Jesse, -[3413.88 --> 3415.06] this hope will rise, -[3415.38 --> 3416.44] God is keeping -[3416.44 --> 3417.36] his promise -[3417.36 --> 3418.14] and yet, -[3418.24 --> 3419.84] he's separating -[3419.84 --> 3420.86] that promise -[3420.86 --> 3421.76] from the pomp -[3421.76 --> 3422.70] and circumstance -[3422.70 --> 3424.00] and the glory -[3424.00 --> 3425.56] of the royal house. -[3426.38 --> 3426.50] Right? -[3426.60 --> 3427.46] David isn't -[3427.46 --> 3428.38] the focus here. -[3429.22 --> 3429.58] Instead, -[3429.78 --> 3430.62] he's reminding -[3430.62 --> 3431.28] the readers -[3431.28 --> 3432.30] of David's -[3432.30 --> 3434.06] peasant origins. -[3434.74 --> 3435.78] his father, -[3436.44 --> 3436.76] Jesse. -[3438.14 --> 3438.48] Right? -[3438.52 --> 3439.66] Jesse was a -[3439.66 --> 3440.68] backcountry -[3440.68 --> 3442.52] father of -[3442.52 --> 3443.56] shepherds -[3443.56 --> 3444.74] and livestock -[3444.74 --> 3445.58] keepers. -[3446.10 --> 3447.24] And what effectively -[3447.24 --> 3448.02] is happening here -[3448.02 --> 3449.42] is God is saying -[3449.42 --> 3451.30] that it's not -[3451.30 --> 3452.16] about -[3452.16 --> 3453.62] the promise -[3453.62 --> 3455.04] so much -[3455.04 --> 3455.96] as it is about -[3455.96 --> 3456.92] the one who gives -[3456.92 --> 3457.90] the promise. -[3458.98 --> 3459.36] Right? -[3459.38 --> 3460.24] It's not about David. -[3460.64 --> 3461.96] It's about his God. -[3463.16 --> 3463.30] Right? -[3463.30 --> 3464.76] God will do it -[3464.76 --> 3465.44] himself. -[3465.68 --> 3466.78] He is the one -[3466.78 --> 3467.24] who will make -[3467.24 --> 3468.20] the shoot rise -[3468.20 --> 3469.10] from the stump. -[3469.20 --> 3469.98] He is the one -[3469.98 --> 3470.40] who will make -[3470.40 --> 3471.52] the branch grow. -[3471.72 --> 3472.56] He is the one -[3472.56 --> 3473.30] who will cause it -[3473.30 --> 3474.64] to bear fruit. -[3474.76 --> 3475.36] In short, -[3475.54 --> 3477.08] salvation and judgment -[3477.08 --> 3478.82] are from God. -[3479.26 --> 3479.70] Redemption -[3479.70 --> 3481.10] is his gift -[3481.10 --> 3481.72] of grace -[3481.72 --> 3482.66] and faithful -[3482.66 --> 3484.02] to his promise. -[3484.14 --> 3484.26] Right? -[3484.48 --> 3485.24] His zeal -[3485.24 --> 3486.58] will accomplish this. -[3486.58 --> 3487.56] The hope -[3487.56 --> 3488.48] that the people -[3488.48 --> 3489.72] can place -[3489.72 --> 3491.04] their longings -[3491.04 --> 3491.28] in, -[3491.38 --> 3492.60] the desire -[3492.60 --> 3493.52] that they have -[3493.52 --> 3494.70] needs to be -[3494.70 --> 3496.36] for God -[3496.36 --> 3498.22] and not -[3498.22 --> 3498.96] for something else. -[3500.32 --> 3500.68] Now, -[3500.72 --> 3501.54] this image -[3501.54 --> 3502.20] compounds -[3502.20 --> 3503.48] as the shoot -[3503.48 --> 3504.92] rises from the stump -[3504.92 --> 3505.72] and it becomes -[3505.72 --> 3506.56] a branch. -[3507.12 --> 3508.22] A branch -[3508.22 --> 3509.36] that will bear fruit. -[3510.24 --> 3510.74] And that image -[3510.74 --> 3511.46] of a branch, -[3512.02 --> 3513.74] two later prophets, -[3513.96 --> 3514.28] Jeremiah -[3514.28 --> 3515.74] and Zechariah, -[3515.86 --> 3517.04] who prophesied -[3517.04 --> 3518.32] during the exile -[3518.32 --> 3520.08] and after the exile, -[3520.26 --> 3521.44] so two, -[3521.62 --> 3522.48] three hundred years -[3522.48 --> 3523.46] after Isaiah, -[3524.16 --> 3525.90] they take this image -[3525.90 --> 3527.06] of a branch -[3527.06 --> 3529.58] and they personify it -[3529.58 --> 3530.48] as a title. -[3531.54 --> 3532.60] They take the image -[3532.60 --> 3533.36] of a branch -[3533.36 --> 3535.54] and Jeremiah says -[3535.54 --> 3536.28] the branch -[3536.28 --> 3537.28] will be called -[3537.28 --> 3538.04] the Lord -[3538.04 --> 3539.70] our righteous Savior. -[3541.30 --> 3542.06] Effectively, -[3542.56 --> 3543.08] confirming -[3543.08 --> 3544.32] that the branch -[3544.32 --> 3546.58] is the Messiah -[3546.58 --> 3547.42] who will be -[3547.42 --> 3548.68] both man -[3548.68 --> 3549.68] and -[3549.68 --> 3551.64] the Lord. -[3552.12 --> 3552.24] Right? -[3552.36 --> 3553.36] Man from the line -[3553.36 --> 3553.94] of David -[3553.94 --> 3555.08] and the Lord -[3555.08 --> 3556.68] because the name -[3556.68 --> 3557.28] he uses, -[3557.44 --> 3557.82] the Lord -[3557.82 --> 3558.72] our righteous Savior, -[3558.84 --> 3559.38] if you were to look -[3559.38 --> 3560.42] at Jeremiah 23 -[3560.42 --> 3561.02] verse 5 -[3561.02 --> 3561.54] in your Bibles, -[3561.70 --> 3562.60] that word Lord -[3562.60 --> 3563.68] is in all caps, -[3564.28 --> 3565.26] which means -[3565.26 --> 3566.14] it's the covenant -[3566.14 --> 3567.28] name for God. -[3567.72 --> 3568.38] It's Yahweh. -[3569.88 --> 3570.46] So Jeremiah -[3570.46 --> 3571.66] says that the Messiah, -[3572.12 --> 3572.78] the one who -[3572.78 --> 3573.94] we hope in -[3573.94 --> 3574.72] will be God -[3574.72 --> 3575.84] and man. -[3575.84 --> 3576.36] He will be -[3576.36 --> 3576.92] the God -[3576.92 --> 3577.58] man. -[3577.74 --> 3577.96] And then -[3577.96 --> 3578.84] Zechariah -[3578.84 --> 3579.68] adds -[3579.68 --> 3580.80] that this -[3580.80 --> 3581.64] branch -[3581.64 --> 3582.42] will be -[3582.42 --> 3583.46] a priest -[3583.46 --> 3584.10] who sits -[3584.10 --> 3584.72] on a throne -[3584.72 --> 3585.30] and is given -[3585.30 --> 3585.84] a crown. -[3587.12 --> 3587.88] Now in Israel -[3587.88 --> 3588.76] there are no -[3588.76 --> 3589.78] priest kings. -[3590.88 --> 3591.76] There's priests -[3591.76 --> 3592.66] and there's kings -[3592.66 --> 3593.74] but in Zechariah -[3593.74 --> 3594.28] the branch -[3594.28 --> 3595.54] is both. -[3595.68 --> 3596.00] And so -[3596.00 --> 3596.74] not only -[3596.74 --> 3597.44] let's compound -[3597.44 --> 3597.94] the image -[3597.94 --> 3598.26] you have -[3598.26 --> 3599.00] the Messiah -[3599.00 --> 3599.42] who is -[3599.42 --> 3599.88] the God -[3599.88 --> 3600.42] man -[3600.42 --> 3601.54] who is -[3601.54 --> 3602.24] man from -[3602.24 --> 3602.66] the line -[3602.66 --> 3603.20] of David -[3603.20 --> 3604.10] and himself -[3604.10 --> 3604.58] God -[3604.58 --> 3605.14] the Lord -[3605.14 --> 3606.20] and who -[3606.20 --> 3606.78] is the -[3606.78 --> 3607.56] high priest -[3607.56 --> 3608.76] and true -[3608.76 --> 3609.46] king. -[3611.32 --> 3611.96] Isaiah -[3611.96 --> 3613.10] is stacking -[3613.10 --> 3614.52] these layers -[3614.52 --> 3615.16] of meaning -[3615.16 --> 3616.08] to fulfill -[3616.08 --> 3617.30] what our hope -[3617.30 --> 3618.02] should be -[3618.02 --> 3618.68] and if you're -[3618.68 --> 3619.14] following along -[3619.14 --> 3619.82] we haven't even -[3619.82 --> 3620.54] left verse 1 -[3620.54 --> 3620.82] yet. -[3624.12 --> 3624.80] Now -[3624.80 --> 3626.20] to be clear -[3626.20 --> 3627.38] at this point -[3627.38 --> 3628.68] I still haven't -[3628.68 --> 3629.36] yet said anything -[3629.36 --> 3630.12] about Jesus -[3630.12 --> 3632.18] or about -[3632.18 --> 3632.46] Jesus -[3632.46 --> 3633.40] as the Messiah. -[3634.56 --> 3635.32] We've only -[3635.32 --> 3635.80] heard -[3635.80 --> 3636.34] that the -[3636.34 --> 3636.98] people's hope -[3636.98 --> 3637.78] is for -[3637.78 --> 3638.70] a Messiah -[3638.70 --> 3639.40] but we don't -[3639.40 --> 3639.86] yet know -[3639.86 --> 3640.44] who that -[3640.44 --> 3640.96] will be -[3640.96 --> 3641.70] or how -[3641.70 --> 3642.10] that will -[3642.10 --> 3642.64] come about. -[3644.56 --> 3645.16] Now -[3645.16 --> 3646.08] the title -[3646.08 --> 3646.82] Messiah -[3646.82 --> 3649.14] comes from -[3649.14 --> 3649.82] the Hebrew -[3649.82 --> 3650.32] word -[3650.32 --> 3650.98] Meshach -[3650.98 --> 3652.36] which comes -[3652.36 --> 3653.22] from a root -[3653.22 --> 3653.98] if you remember -[3653.98 --> 3654.44] Hebrew -[3654.44 --> 3656.34] words are all -[3656.34 --> 3656.98] brought down -[3656.98 --> 3657.76] low into a -[3657.76 --> 3658.50] three stem root -[3658.50 --> 3659.32] the root -[3659.32 --> 3659.70] there is -[3659.70 --> 3660.20] Meshach -[3660.20 --> 3660.66] which means -[3660.66 --> 3661.10] oil. -[3662.42 --> 3662.64] And so -[3662.64 --> 3663.22] Messiah -[3663.22 --> 3664.82] literally means -[3664.82 --> 3665.54] one who is -[3665.54 --> 3666.16] anointed with -[3666.16 --> 3666.72] oil or -[3666.72 --> 3667.50] the anointed -[3667.50 --> 3667.98] one. -[3668.90 --> 3669.74] The Messiah -[3669.74 --> 3670.60] is the -[3670.60 --> 3671.16] anointed -[3671.16 --> 3672.12] one. -[3672.24 --> 3672.50] And so -[3672.50 --> 3673.72] let's do a -[3673.72 --> 3674.40] little bit of -[3674.40 --> 3675.28] biblical theology -[3675.28 --> 3675.76] together. -[3676.80 --> 3677.60] Psalm 2 -[3677.60 --> 3679.04] which has -[3679.04 --> 3679.62] long been -[3679.62 --> 3680.26] recognized -[3680.26 --> 3681.72] by the Jews -[3681.72 --> 3682.16] as a -[3682.16 --> 3682.80] messianic -[3682.80 --> 3683.32] psalm. -[3683.48 --> 3684.06] Psalm 2 -[3684.06 --> 3684.60] says -[3684.60 --> 3685.98] the kings -[3685.98 --> 3686.74] of the earth -[3686.74 --> 3687.32] rise up -[3687.32 --> 3687.70] and the -[3687.70 --> 3688.06] rulers -[3688.06 --> 3688.48] band -[3688.48 --> 3689.02] together -[3689.02 --> 3689.50] against -[3689.50 --> 3690.06] the Lord -[3690.06 --> 3690.80] and against -[3690.80 --> 3691.82] his -[3691.82 --> 3692.94] anointed. -[3694.44 --> 3695.00] Isaiah -[3695.00 --> 3696.04] chapter 61 -[3696.04 --> 3696.48] says -[3696.48 --> 3697.34] the spirit -[3697.34 --> 3697.76] of the -[3697.76 --> 3698.06] sovereign -[3698.06 --> 3698.28] Lord -[3698.28 --> 3698.74] is on -[3698.74 --> 3698.92] me -[3698.92 --> 3699.22] because -[3699.22 --> 3699.42] the -[3699.42 --> 3699.64] Lord -[3699.64 --> 3700.00] has -[3700.00 --> 3700.66] anointed -[3700.66 --> 3701.16] me -[3701.16 --> 3701.50] to -[3701.50 --> 3701.88] proclaim -[3701.88 --> 3702.22] good -[3702.22 --> 3702.48] news -[3702.48 --> 3702.78] to the -[3702.78 --> 3703.08] poor. -[3703.44 --> 3703.52] He -[3703.52 --> 3703.70] has -[3703.70 --> 3703.90] set -[3703.90 --> 3704.06] me -[3704.06 --> 3704.24] to -[3704.24 --> 3704.50] bind -[3704.50 --> 3704.66] up -[3704.66 --> 3704.78] the -[3704.78 --> 3705.02] broken -[3705.02 --> 3705.46] hearted -[3705.46 --> 3705.62] to -[3705.62 --> 3705.96] proclaim -[3705.96 --> 3706.36] freedom -[3706.36 --> 3706.72] for the -[3706.72 --> 3707.12] captives -[3707.12 --> 3707.62] and release -[3707.62 --> 3707.82] from -[3707.82 --> 3708.22] darkness -[3708.22 --> 3708.98] for the -[3708.98 --> 3709.30] prisoners -[3709.30 --> 3709.90] to -[3709.90 --> 3710.32] proclaim -[3710.32 --> 3710.68] the -[3710.68 --> 3711.00] year -[3711.00 --> 3711.18] of -[3711.18 --> 3711.30] the -[3711.30 --> 3711.72] Lord's -[3711.72 --> 3712.16] favor -[3712.16 --> 3712.72] and -[3712.72 --> 3712.86] the -[3712.86 --> 3713.14] day -[3713.14 --> 3713.38] of -[3713.38 --> 3713.86] vengeance -[3713.86 --> 3714.32] of -[3714.32 --> 3714.46] our -[3714.46 --> 3714.78] God -[3714.78 --> 3715.10] to -[3715.10 --> 3715.54] comfort -[3715.54 --> 3716.14] all -[3716.14 --> 3716.36] who -[3716.36 --> 3716.80] mourn -[3718.48 --> 3718.72] who -[3718.72 --> 3719.18] grieve -[3719.18 --> 3720.02] in -[3720.02 --> 3720.38] Zion. -[3721.06 --> 3721.82] Anointed -[3721.82 --> 3723.00] me. -[3723.60 --> 3723.84] And then -[3723.84 --> 3724.48] powerfully -[3724.48 --> 3724.98] I think -[3724.98 --> 3725.46] in -[3725.46 --> 3726.22] Daniel -[3726.22 --> 3728.10] 9 -[3728.10 --> 3729.14] we read -[3729.14 --> 3729.52] this -[3729.52 --> 3730.54] know -[3730.54 --> 3730.90] and -[3730.90 --> 3731.50] understand -[3731.50 --> 3732.28] this -[3732.28 --> 3733.48] from -[3733.48 --> 3733.66] the -[3733.66 --> 3734.04] time -[3734.04 --> 3734.24] the -[3734.24 --> 3734.52] word -[3734.52 --> 3734.82] goes -[3734.82 --> 3735.08] out -[3735.08 --> 3735.28] to -[3735.28 --> 3735.82] restore -[3735.82 --> 3736.08] and -[3736.08 --> 3736.56] rebuild -[3736.56 --> 3737.18] Jerusalem -[3737.18 --> 3737.86] until -[3737.86 --> 3738.36] the -[3738.36 --> 3738.92] anointed -[3738.92 --> 3739.42] one -[3739.42 --> 3739.94] the -[3739.94 --> 3740.28] ruler -[3740.28 --> 3740.80] comes -[3740.80 --> 3741.02] there -[3741.02 --> 3741.16] will -[3741.16 --> 3741.36] be -[3741.36 --> 3741.70] seven -[3741.70 --> 3742.34] sevens -[3742.34 --> 3742.86] and -[3742.86 --> 3743.22] sixty -[3743.22 --> 3743.52] two -[3743.52 --> 3744.12] sevens -[3744.12 --> 3744.98] it -[3744.98 --> 3745.10] will -[3745.10 --> 3745.28] be -[3745.28 --> 3745.72] rebuilt -[3745.72 --> 3746.00] with -[3746.00 --> 3746.38] streets -[3746.38 --> 3746.64] and -[3746.64 --> 3746.78] a -[3746.78 --> 3747.10] trench -[3747.10 --> 3747.40] but -[3747.40 --> 3747.58] in -[3747.58 --> 3747.98] times -[3747.98 --> 3748.18] of -[3748.18 --> 3748.46] trouble -[3748.46 --> 3749.22] and -[3749.22 --> 3749.46] after -[3749.46 --> 3749.66] the -[3749.66 --> 3749.94] sixty -[3749.94 --> 3750.22] two -[3750.22 --> 3750.88] sevens -[3750.88 --> 3751.28] the -[3751.28 --> 3751.80] anointed -[3751.80 --> 3752.26] one -[3752.26 --> 3752.50] will -[3752.50 --> 3752.66] be -[3752.66 --> 3752.88] put -[3752.88 --> 3753.10] to -[3753.10 --> 3753.44] death -[3753.44 --> 3753.74] and -[3753.74 --> 3753.94] will -[3753.94 --> 3754.30] have -[3754.30 --> 3755.12] nothing -[3755.12 --> 3757.54] we -[3757.54 --> 3757.66] don't -[3757.66 --> 3757.78] have -[3757.78 --> 3758.08] time -[3758.08 --> 3758.28] this -[3758.28 --> 3758.50] morning -[3758.50 --> 3758.70] to -[3758.70 --> 3758.92] look -[3758.92 --> 3759.04] at -[3759.04 --> 3759.22] all -[3759.22 --> 3759.44] the -[3759.44 --> 3760.14] theories -[3760.14 --> 3760.44] and -[3760.44 --> 3760.82] questions -[3760.82 --> 3761.18] about -[3761.18 --> 3761.36] what -[3761.36 --> 3761.56] those -[3761.56 --> 3762.08] particular -[3762.08 --> 3762.56] numbers -[3762.56 --> 3762.94] mean -[3762.94 --> 3763.10] and -[3763.10 --> 3763.28] how -[3763.28 --> 3763.46] we -[3763.46 --> 3763.72] might -[3763.72 --> 3763.86] or -[3763.86 --> 3764.06] might -[3764.06 --> 3764.28] not -[3764.28 --> 3764.62] map -[3764.62 --> 3764.92] those -[3764.92 --> 3765.16] out -[3765.16 --> 3765.58] over -[3765.58 --> 3765.76] to -[3765.76 --> 3766.16] particular -[3766.16 --> 3766.58] points -[3766.58 --> 3766.72] in -[3766.72 --> 3767.02] history -[3767.02 --> 3767.70] the -[3767.70 --> 3768.10] point -[3768.10 --> 3768.48] rather -[3768.48 --> 3769.04] for -[3769.04 --> 3769.24] us -[3769.24 --> 3769.44] this -[3769.44 --> 3769.70] morning -[3769.70 --> 3769.96] is -[3769.96 --> 3770.16] the -[3770.16 --> 3770.70] conclusion -[3770.70 --> 3771.00] of -[3771.00 --> 3771.16] what -[3771.16 --> 3771.50] Daniel -[3771.50 --> 3771.76] is -[3771.76 --> 3772.08] saying -[3772.08 --> 3772.62] the -[3772.62 --> 3773.06] conclusion -[3773.06 --> 3773.34] is -[3773.34 --> 3773.52] that -[3778.46 --> 3778.94] God -[3778.94 --> 3779.28] will -[3779.28 --> 3780.02] remove -[3780.02 --> 3780.62] sin -[3780.62 --> 3780.94] and -[3780.94 --> 3781.62] establish -[3781.62 --> 3782.26] righteousness -[3782.26 --> 3783.10] through -[3783.10 --> 3783.64] his -[3783.64 --> 3784.32] anointed -[3784.32 --> 3785.28] one -[3785.28 --> 3786.10] through -[3786.10 --> 3786.30] the -[3786.30 --> 3786.72] Messiah -[3786.72 --> 3787.94] the -[3787.94 --> 3788.50] hope -[3788.50 --> 3789.46] right -[3789.46 --> 3790.46] is -[3790.46 --> 3790.66] for -[3790.66 --> 3790.84] an -[3790.84 --> 3791.24] anointed -[3791.24 --> 3791.68] one -[3791.68 --> 3793.00] this -[3793.00 --> 3793.14] is -[3793.14 --> 3793.32] the -[3793.32 --> 3793.76] same -[3793.76 --> 3794.32] hope -[3794.32 --> 3794.84] that -[3794.84 --> 3795.24] comes -[3795.24 --> 3795.52] from -[3795.52 --> 3795.74] the -[3795.74 --> 3796.08] stump -[3796.08 --> 3796.70] of -[3796.70 --> 3797.08] Jesse -[3797.08 --> 3797.38] and -[3797.38 --> 3797.92] I -[3797.92 --> 3798.44] believe -[3798.44 --> 3798.88] and -[3798.88 --> 3799.04] I -[3799.04 --> 3799.24] think -[3799.24 --> 3799.90] Isaiah -[3799.90 --> 3800.62] confirms -[3800.62 --> 3801.10] actually -[3801.10 --> 3801.40] for -[3801.40 --> 3801.66] us -[3801.66 --> 3801.86] that -[3801.86 --> 3802.32] the -[3802.32 --> 3802.64] hope -[3802.64 --> 3802.92] of -[3802.92 --> 3803.12] the -[3803.12 --> 3803.58] anointed -[3803.58 --> 3804.06] one -[3804.06 --> 3805.18] is -[3805.18 --> 3805.56] named -[3805.56 --> 3806.34] Jesus -[3806.34 --> 3808.02] that -[3808.02 --> 3808.14] when -[3808.14 --> 3808.28] you -[3808.28 --> 3808.48] look -[3808.48 --> 3808.60] at -[3808.60 --> 3808.72] the -[3808.72 --> 3808.98] hopes -[3808.98 --> 3809.58] expressed -[3809.58 --> 3810.04] for -[3810.04 --> 3810.28] the -[3810.28 --> 3810.70] anointed -[3810.70 --> 3811.10] one -[3811.10 --> 3811.82] only -[3811.82 --> 3812.18] one -[3812.18 --> 3812.60] person -[3812.60 --> 3813.06] fits -[3813.06 --> 3813.44] that -[3813.44 --> 3814.56] and -[3814.56 --> 3814.72] we -[3814.72 --> 3814.94] know -[3814.94 --> 3815.16] him -[3815.16 --> 3815.48] as -[3815.48 --> 3816.50] Jesus -[3816.50 --> 3818.56] and -[3818.56 --> 3818.68] so -[3818.68 --> 3818.84] in -[3818.84 --> 3819.04] verse -[3819.04 --> 3819.44] 2 -[3819.44 --> 3820.66] Isaiah -[3820.66 --> 3821.06] says -[3821.06 --> 3821.50] that -[3821.50 --> 3821.66] the -[3821.66 --> 3822.12] spirit -[3822.12 --> 3822.34] of -[3822.34 --> 3822.50] the -[3822.50 --> 3822.76] Lord -[3822.76 --> 3823.00] will -[3823.00 --> 3823.46] rest -[3823.46 --> 3823.76] on -[3823.76 --> 3824.04] him -[3824.04 --> 3824.94] this -[3824.94 --> 3825.10] is -[3825.10 --> 3825.32] again -[3825.32 --> 3825.52] this -[3825.52 --> 3825.66] is -[3825.66 --> 3826.36] anointing -[3826.36 --> 3827.30] language -[3827.30 --> 3828.28] the -[3828.28 --> 3828.60] spirit -[3828.60 --> 3829.14] resting -[3829.14 --> 3829.48] and -[3829.48 --> 3830.06] descending -[3830.06 --> 3831.20] landing -[3831.20 --> 3831.72] upon -[3831.72 --> 3832.26] laying -[3832.26 --> 3832.68] on -[3832.68 --> 3833.14] pouring -[3833.14 --> 3833.62] down -[3833.62 --> 3834.38] over -[3834.38 --> 3835.98] in -[3835.98 --> 3836.28] Matthew -[3836.28 --> 3836.94] 3 -[3836.94 --> 3837.62] verse -[3837.62 --> 3838.28] 16 -[3838.28 --> 3839.08] we -[3839.08 --> 3839.38] read -[3839.38 --> 3839.58] that -[3839.58 --> 3840.00] as -[3840.00 --> 3840.28] soon -[3840.28 --> 3840.56] as -[3840.56 --> 3840.96] Jesus -[3840.96 --> 3841.32] was -[3841.32 --> 3841.76] baptized -[3841.76 --> 3842.24] he -[3842.24 --> 3842.42] went -[3842.42 --> 3842.60] up -[3842.60 --> 3842.86] out -[3842.86 --> 3842.96] of -[3842.96 --> 3843.08] the -[3843.08 --> 3843.38] water -[3843.38 --> 3844.12] and -[3844.12 --> 3844.24] at -[3844.24 --> 3844.42] that -[3844.42 --> 3844.76] moment -[3844.76 --> 3845.04] heaven -[3845.04 --> 3845.28] was -[3845.28 --> 3845.62] open -[3845.62 --> 3846.08] and -[3846.08 --> 3846.22] he -[3846.22 --> 3846.44] saw -[3846.44 --> 3846.66] the -[3846.66 --> 3846.94] spirit -[3846.94 --> 3847.10] of -[3847.10 --> 3847.34] God -[3847.34 --> 3847.90] descending -[3847.90 --> 3848.28] like -[3848.28 --> 3848.40] a -[3848.40 --> 3848.74] dove -[3848.74 --> 3848.90] and -[3848.90 --> 3849.40] alighting -[3849.40 --> 3849.64] on -[3849.64 --> 3849.82] him -[3849.82 --> 3850.26] and -[3850.26 --> 3850.42] a -[3850.42 --> 3850.74] voice -[3850.74 --> 3851.00] from -[3851.00 --> 3851.30] heaven -[3851.30 --> 3851.64] said -[3851.64 --> 3852.00] this -[3852.00 --> 3852.60] is -[3852.60 --> 3853.02] my -[3853.02 --> 3853.64] son -[3853.64 --> 3854.36] whom -[3854.36 --> 3854.62] I -[3854.62 --> 3855.06] love -[3855.06 --> 3855.62] with -[3855.62 --> 3856.00] him -[3856.00 --> 3856.64] I -[3856.64 --> 3856.90] am -[3856.90 --> 3857.28] well -[3857.28 --> 3858.24] pleased -[3858.24 --> 3860.60] the -[3860.60 --> 3862.84] spirit -[3862.84 --> 3864.40] anoints -[3864.40 --> 3865.52] Jesus -[3865.52 --> 3866.38] in -[3866.38 --> 3866.58] that -[3866.58 --> 3866.98] moment -[3866.98 --> 3869.10] in -[3869.10 --> 3869.30] Luke -[3869.30 --> 3869.70] 4 -[3869.70 --> 3870.82] and -[3870.82 --> 3871.00] we've -[3871.00 --> 3871.18] already -[3871.18 --> 3871.50] talked -[3871.50 --> 3871.80] about -[3871.80 --> 3872.44] Isaiah -[3872.44 --> 3873.44] 61 -[3873.44 --> 3873.96] but -[3873.96 --> 3874.12] in -[3874.12 --> 3874.30] Luke -[3874.30 --> 3874.74] 4 -[3874.74 --> 3875.48] Jesus -[3875.48 --> 3876.00] takes -[3876.00 --> 3876.26] that -[3876.26 --> 3876.74] same -[3876.74 --> 3877.72] passage -[3877.72 --> 3879.00] from -[3879.00 --> 3879.34] Isaiah -[3879.34 --> 3879.56] I'll -[3879.56 --> 3879.98] read the -[3879.98 --> 3880.38] whole -[3880.38 --> 3880.56] thing -[3880.56 --> 3880.74] for -[3880.74 --> 3880.94] you -[3880.94 --> 3881.18] because -[3881.18 --> 3881.40] we're -[3881.40 --> 3881.66] trying -[3881.66 --> 3881.80] to -[3881.80 --> 3882.06] stack -[3882.06 --> 3882.30] these -[3882.30 --> 3882.66] arguments -[3882.66 --> 3883.10] together -[3883.10 --> 3885.16] Luke -[3885.16 --> 3885.46] 4 -[3885.46 --> 3885.72] verse -[3885.72 --> 3886.24] 16 -[3886.24 --> 3887.16] he -[3887.16 --> 3887.44] went -[3887.44 --> 3887.74] to -[3887.74 --> 3888.32] Nazareth -[3888.32 --> 3888.96] where -[3888.96 --> 3889.12] he -[3889.12 --> 3889.28] had -[3889.28 --> 3889.42] been -[3889.42 --> 3889.68] brought -[3889.68 --> 3889.98] up -[3889.98 --> 3890.22] and -[3890.22 --> 3890.36] on -[3890.36 --> 3890.52] the -[3890.52 --> 3890.82] Sabbath -[3890.82 --> 3891.16] day -[3891.16 --> 3891.40] he -[3891.40 --> 3891.62] went -[3891.62 --> 3891.90] into -[3891.90 --> 3892.12] the -[3892.12 --> 3892.44] synagogue -[3892.44 --> 3893.30] and -[3893.30 --> 3893.76] was -[3893.76 --> 3894.14] as -[3894.14 --> 3894.36] was -[3894.36 --> 3894.56] his -[3894.56 --> 3894.94] custom -[3894.94 --> 3895.86] and -[3895.86 --> 3895.96] he -[3895.96 --> 3896.24] stood -[3896.24 --> 3896.42] up -[3896.42 --> 3896.58] to -[3896.58 --> 3897.00] read -[3897.00 --> 3897.20] and -[3897.20 --> 3897.36] the -[3897.36 --> 3897.74] scroll -[3897.74 --> 3898.00] of -[3898.00 --> 3898.12] the -[3898.12 --> 3898.40] prophet -[3898.40 --> 3898.92] Isaiah -[3898.92 --> 3899.22] was -[3899.22 --> 3899.48] handed -[3899.48 --> 3899.68] to -[3899.68 --> 3899.92] him -[3899.92 --> 3900.76] unrolling -[3900.76 --> 3901.06] it -[3901.06 --> 3901.24] he -[3901.24 --> 3901.58] found -[3901.58 --> 3901.78] the -[3901.78 --> 3902.06] place -[3902.06 --> 3902.26] where -[3902.26 --> 3902.36] it -[3902.36 --> 3902.48] was -[3902.48 --> 3902.76] written -[3902.76 --> 3903.94] the -[3903.94 --> 3904.30] spirit -[3904.30 --> 3904.46] of -[3904.46 --> 3904.58] the -[3904.58 --> 3904.86] Lord -[3904.86 --> 3905.12] is -[3905.12 --> 3905.34] on -[3905.34 --> 3905.62] me -[3905.62 --> 3905.98] because -[3905.98 --> 3906.26] he -[3906.26 --> 3906.50] has -[3906.50 --> 3906.86] anointed -[3906.86 --> 3907.22] me -[3907.22 --> 3907.46] to -[3907.46 --> 3907.78] proclaim -[3907.78 --> 3908.20] good -[3908.20 --> 3908.52] news -[3908.52 --> 3908.68] to -[3908.68 --> 3908.80] the -[3908.80 --> 3909.08] poor -[3909.08 --> 3909.52] he -[3909.52 --> 3909.70] has -[3909.70 --> 3909.92] sent -[3909.92 --> 3910.20] me -[3910.20 --> 3910.40] to -[3910.40 --> 3910.70] proclaim -[3910.70 --> 3911.10] freedom -[3911.10 --> 3911.32] for -[3911.32 --> 3911.46] the -[3911.46 --> 3911.80] prisoners -[3911.80 --> 3912.04] and -[3912.04 --> 3912.46] recovery -[3912.46 --> 3912.70] of -[3912.70 --> 3912.96] sight -[3912.96 --> 3913.42] for -[3913.42 --> 3913.54] the -[3913.54 --> 3913.88] blind -[3913.88 --> 3914.18] to -[3914.18 --> 3914.44] set -[3914.44 --> 3914.62] the -[3914.62 --> 3915.00] oppressed -[3915.00 --> 3915.36] free -[3915.36 --> 3915.82] to -[3915.82 --> 3916.24] proclaim -[3916.24 --> 3916.48] the -[3916.48 --> 3916.80] year -[3916.80 --> 3916.98] of -[3916.98 --> 3917.12] the -[3917.12 --> 3917.34] Lord -[3917.34 --> 3918.18] favor -[3918.18 --> 3919.50] and -[3919.50 --> 3919.62] then -[3919.62 --> 3919.94] rolling -[3919.94 --> 3920.16] up -[3920.16 --> 3920.32] the -[3920.32 --> 3920.68] scroll -[3920.68 --> 3920.94] he -[3920.94 --> 3921.18] gave -[3921.18 --> 3921.30] it -[3921.30 --> 3921.54] back -[3921.54 --> 3921.70] to -[3921.70 --> 3921.84] the -[3921.84 --> 3922.26] attendant -[3922.26 --> 3922.58] and -[3922.58 --> 3922.82] sat -[3922.82 --> 3923.26] down -[3923.26 --> 3923.86] the -[3923.86 --> 3924.22] eyes -[3924.22 --> 3924.36] of -[3924.36 --> 3924.72] everyone -[3924.72 --> 3924.90] in -[3924.90 --> 3925.06] the -[3925.06 --> 3925.40] synagogue -[3925.40 --> 3925.74] were -[3925.74 --> 3926.30] fastened -[3926.30 --> 3926.50] on -[3926.50 --> 3926.78] him -[3926.78 --> 3927.34] and -[3927.34 --> 3927.50] he -[3927.50 --> 3928.04] began -[3928.04 --> 3928.30] by -[3928.30 --> 3928.76] saying -[3928.76 --> 3928.98] to -[3928.98 --> 3929.32] them -[3929.32 --> 3930.28] today -[3930.28 --> 3931.32] this -[3931.32 --> 3931.82] scripture -[3931.82 --> 3932.66] is -[3932.66 --> 3933.28] fulfilled -[3933.28 --> 3934.32] in -[3934.32 --> 3934.56] your -[3934.56 --> 3935.08] hearing -[3935.08 --> 3937.42] today -[3937.42 --> 3938.14] this -[3938.14 --> 3938.62] scripture -[3938.62 --> 3939.16] is -[3939.16 --> 3939.78] fulfilled -[3939.78 --> 3940.74] in -[3940.74 --> 3940.92] your -[3940.92 --> 3941.32] hearing -[3941.32 --> 3942.66] the -[3942.66 --> 3943.16] hope -[3943.16 --> 3943.72] for -[3943.72 --> 3944.38] Messiah -[3944.38 --> 3946.20] is -[3946.20 --> 3946.64] Jesus -[3946.64 --> 3947.24] the -[3947.24 --> 3947.68] longing -[3947.68 --> 3948.14] for -[3948.14 --> 3948.36] the -[3948.36 --> 3948.86] anointed -[3948.86 --> 3949.38] one -[3949.38 --> 3950.22] is -[3950.22 --> 3950.88] fulfilled -[3950.88 --> 3951.70] in -[3951.70 --> 3952.40] Jesus -[3952.40 --> 3952.68] and -[3952.68 --> 3952.84] this -[3952.84 --> 3953.30] continues -[3953.30 --> 3953.60] in -[3953.60 --> 3954.28] verse -[3954.28 --> 3954.62] 3 -[3954.62 --> 3954.98] of -[3954.98 --> 3955.36] our -[3955.36 --> 3955.70] text -[3955.70 --> 3955.92] from -[3955.92 --> 3956.36] Isaiah -[3956.36 --> 3957.58] we -[3957.58 --> 3957.86] read -[3957.86 --> 3958.08] he -[3958.08 --> 3958.32] will -[3958.32 --> 3958.58] not -[3958.58 --> 3959.20] judge -[3959.20 --> 3959.46] by -[3959.46 --> 3959.66] what -[3959.66 --> 3959.80] he -[3959.80 --> 3960.20] sees -[3960.20 --> 3960.38] with -[3960.38 --> 3960.54] his -[3960.54 --> 3961.00] eyes -[3961.00 --> 3961.18] or -[3961.18 --> 3961.76] decide -[3961.76 --> 3961.96] by -[3961.96 --> 3962.14] what -[3962.14 --> 3962.28] he -[3962.28 --> 3962.62] hears -[3962.62 --> 3962.82] with -[3962.82 --> 3962.96] his -[3962.96 --> 3963.34] ears -[3963.34 --> 3964.34] and -[3964.34 --> 3964.48] in -[3964.48 --> 3964.68] John -[3964.68 --> 3965.02] 2 -[3965.02 --> 3965.30] verse -[3965.30 --> 3965.88] 25 -[3965.88 --> 3966.50] we -[3966.50 --> 3966.78] read -[3966.78 --> 3967.36] that -[3967.36 --> 3967.78] Jesus -[3967.78 --> 3968.26] did -[3968.26 --> 3968.46] not -[3968.46 --> 3968.82] need -[3968.82 --> 3969.12] any -[3969.12 --> 3969.62] testimony -[3969.62 --> 3970.16] about -[3970.16 --> 3970.58] mankind -[3970.58 --> 3971.10] for -[3971.10 --> 3971.30] he -[3971.30 --> 3971.76] knew -[3971.76 --> 3972.12] what -[3972.12 --> 3972.42] was -[3972.42 --> 3972.90] in -[3972.90 --> 3973.42] each -[3973.42 --> 3974.26] person -[3974.26 --> 3976.12] right -[3976.12 --> 3976.24] or -[3976.24 --> 3976.38] in -[3976.38 --> 3976.60] Matthew -[3976.60 --> 3977.00] 9 -[3977.00 --> 3977.24] that -[3977.24 --> 3977.48] same -[3977.48 --> 3977.86] thing -[3977.86 --> 3978.50] knowing -[3978.50 --> 3978.94] their -[3978.94 --> 3979.50] thoughts -[3979.50 --> 3980.28] Jesus -[3980.28 --> 3980.70] says -[3980.70 --> 3981.02] why -[3981.02 --> 3981.22] do -[3981.22 --> 3981.38] you -[3981.38 --> 3981.76] entertain -[3981.76 --> 3982.22] evil -[3982.22 --> 3982.62] thoughts -[3982.62 --> 3983.20] in -[3983.20 --> 3983.32] your -[3983.32 --> 3983.66] hearts -[3983.66 --> 3984.70] he -[3984.70 --> 3985.22] knows -[3985.22 --> 3985.42] the -[3985.42 --> 3985.74] hearts -[3985.74 --> 3986.28] of -[3986.28 --> 3986.62] man -[3986.62 --> 3986.76] he -[3986.76 --> 3987.04] doesn't -[3987.04 --> 3987.34] have -[3987.34 --> 3987.48] to -[3987.48 --> 3987.84] judge -[3987.84 --> 3988.00] by -[3988.00 --> 3988.14] what -[3988.14 --> 3988.26] he -[3988.26 --> 3988.90] sees -[3988.90 --> 3989.34] Jesus -[3989.34 --> 3990.06] knows -[3990.06 --> 3990.80] your -[3990.80 --> 3991.20] heart -[3991.20 --> 3992.70] again -[3992.70 --> 3992.98] keep -[3992.98 --> 3993.34] going -[3993.34 --> 3994.06] in -[3994.06 --> 3994.44] verse -[3994.44 --> 3994.76] 4 -[3994.76 --> 3995.66] we -[3995.66 --> 3995.94] read -[3995.94 --> 3996.10] with -[3996.10 --> 3996.62] righteousness -[3996.62 --> 3996.96] he -[3996.96 --> 3997.12] will -[3997.12 --> 3997.42] judge -[3997.42 --> 3997.64] the -[3997.64 --> 3997.98] needy -[3997.98 --> 3998.20] with -[3998.20 --> 3998.66] justice -[3998.66 --> 3999.18] he -[3999.18 --> 3999.32] will -[3999.32 --> 3999.54] give -[3999.54 --> 4000.04] decisions -[4000.04 --> 4000.32] for -[4000.32 --> 4000.72] the -[4000.72 --> 4001.04] poor -[4001.04 --> 4002.10] now -[4002.10 --> 4002.46] remember -[4002.46 --> 4002.82] Jesus -[4002.82 --> 4003.04] has -[4003.04 --> 4003.38] already -[4003.38 --> 4003.76] said -[4003.76 --> 4003.92] that -[4003.92 --> 4004.04] he -[4004.04 --> 4004.24] has -[4004.24 --> 4004.58] come -[4004.58 --> 4004.80] to -[4004.80 --> 4005.20] proclaim -[4005.20 --> 4005.56] good -[4005.56 --> 4005.94] news -[4005.94 --> 4006.48] to -[4006.48 --> 4006.62] the -[4006.62 --> 4006.90] poor -[4006.90 --> 4007.76] and -[4007.76 --> 4007.96] he -[4007.96 --> 4008.34] says -[4008.34 --> 4008.54] in -[4008.54 --> 4008.78] Mark -[4008.78 --> 4009.16] 2 -[4009.16 --> 4009.70] on -[4009.70 --> 4010.02] hearing -[4010.02 --> 4010.44] this -[4010.44 --> 4010.78] Jesus -[4010.78 --> 4011.12] said -[4011.12 --> 4011.28] to -[4011.28 --> 4011.56] them -[4011.56 --> 4012.10] it's -[4012.10 --> 4012.34] not -[4012.34 --> 4012.56] the -[4012.56 --> 4012.94] healthy -[4012.94 --> 4013.16] who -[4013.16 --> 4013.38] need -[4013.38 --> 4013.52] a -[4013.52 --> 4013.84] doctor -[4013.84 --> 4014.06] but -[4014.06 --> 4014.22] the -[4014.22 --> 4014.50] sick -[4014.50 --> 4015.18] I've -[4015.18 --> 4015.30] not -[4015.30 --> 4015.48] come -[4015.48 --> 4015.64] to -[4015.64 --> 4015.82] call -[4015.82 --> 4015.98] the -[4015.98 --> 4016.34] righteous -[4016.34 --> 4017.16] but -[4017.16 --> 4017.50] sinners -[4017.50 --> 4018.50] or -[4018.50 --> 4018.66] in -[4018.66 --> 4018.84] Luke -[4018.84 --> 4019.38] 14 -[4019.38 --> 4019.76] Jesus -[4019.76 --> 4020.54] describing -[4020.54 --> 4020.78] the -[4020.78 --> 4021.04] kingdom -[4021.04 --> 4021.26] of -[4021.26 --> 4021.58] God -[4021.58 --> 4021.76] and -[4021.76 --> 4022.32] what -[4022.32 --> 4022.54] it's -[4022.54 --> 4022.80] like -[4022.80 --> 4023.06] and -[4023.06 --> 4023.26] who -[4023.26 --> 4023.42] will -[4023.42 --> 4023.58] be -[4023.58 --> 4023.96] included -[4023.96 --> 4024.14] he -[4024.14 --> 4024.32] says -[4024.32 --> 4024.48] when -[4024.48 --> 4024.60] you -[4031.04 --> 4031.58] you -[4031.58 --> 4032.04] you -[4032.04 --> 4032.24] will -[4032.24 --> 4032.38] be -[4032.38 --> 4032.80] repaid -[4032.80 --> 4032.96] at -[4032.96 --> 4033.08] the -[4033.08 --> 4033.54] resurrection -[4033.54 --> 4034.20] of -[4034.20 --> 4034.34] the -[4034.34 --> 4034.78] righteous -[4034.78 --> 4036.00] and -[4036.00 --> 4036.12] I -[4036.12 --> 4036.24] can -[4036.24 --> 4036.42] keep -[4036.42 --> 4036.84] going -[4036.84 --> 4037.30] in -[4037.30 --> 4037.50] this -[4037.50 --> 4037.72] way -[4037.72 --> 4038.30] verse -[4038.30 --> 4038.60] 4 -[4038.60 --> 4038.96] talks -[4038.96 --> 4039.14] about -[4039.14 --> 4039.30] the -[4039.30 --> 4039.68] rod -[4039.68 --> 4039.90] of -[4039.90 --> 4040.18] his -[4040.18 --> 4040.84] mouth -[4040.84 --> 4041.04] and -[4041.04 --> 4041.22] in -[4041.22 --> 4041.86] Revelation -[4041.86 --> 4042.40] 1 -[4042.40 --> 4042.68] verse -[4042.68 --> 4043.16] 16 -[4043.16 --> 4043.42] and -[4043.42 --> 4043.86] Revelation -[4043.86 --> 4044.30] chapter -[4044.30 --> 4044.78] 19 -[4044.78 --> 4045.32] the -[4045.32 --> 4045.94] glorious -[4045.94 --> 4046.48] Jesus -[4046.48 --> 4046.86] is -[4046.86 --> 4047.28] pictured -[4047.28 --> 4047.64] for -[4047.64 --> 4047.84] us -[4047.84 --> 4047.98] with -[4047.98 --> 4048.20] a -[4048.20 --> 4048.58] sword -[4048.58 --> 4049.22] coming -[4049.22 --> 4049.42] out -[4049.42 --> 4049.52] of -[4049.52 --> 4049.66] his -[4049.66 --> 4049.96] mouth -[4049.96 --> 4050.56] Peter -[4050.56 --> 4051.16] says -[4051.16 --> 4051.62] of -[4051.62 --> 4051.98] Jesus -[4051.98 --> 4052.30] in -[4052.30 --> 4052.52] John -[4052.52 --> 4052.94] 6 -[4052.94 --> 4053.24] verse -[4053.24 --> 4053.70] 68 -[4053.70 --> 4054.06] you -[4054.06 --> 4054.42] have -[4054.42 --> 4054.60] the -[4054.60 --> 4054.96] words -[4054.96 --> 4055.12] of -[4055.12 --> 4055.52] eternal -[4055.52 --> 4056.24] life -[4056.24 --> 4056.44] right -[4056.44 --> 4056.88] Jesus -[4056.88 --> 4057.66] word -[4057.66 --> 4057.96] is -[4057.96 --> 4058.44] judgment -[4058.44 --> 4058.76] for -[4058.76 --> 4058.94] the -[4058.94 --> 4059.14] wicked -[4059.14 --> 4059.50] and -[4059.50 --> 4060.08] salvation -[4060.08 --> 4060.68] for -[4060.68 --> 4060.84] the -[4060.84 --> 4061.18] saved -[4061.18 --> 4062.42] again -[4062.42 --> 4062.58] we -[4062.58 --> 4062.72] can -[4062.72 --> 4062.88] keep -[4062.88 --> 4063.20] going -[4063.20 --> 4063.46] verse -[4063.46 --> 4063.88] 5 -[4063.88 --> 4064.44] says -[4064.44 --> 4064.64] that -[4064.64 --> 4065.12] righteousness -[4065.12 --> 4065.60] will be -[4065.60 --> 4066.10] his belt -[4066.10 --> 4066.32] and -[4066.32 --> 4067.10] faithfulness -[4067.10 --> 4067.92] his sash -[4067.92 --> 4068.64] Hebrews -[4068.64 --> 4069.18] 1 -[4069.18 --> 4070.00] describes -[4070.00 --> 4070.90] Jesus -[4070.90 --> 4071.64] God's -[4071.64 --> 4072.26] son -[4072.26 --> 4072.96] as -[4072.96 --> 4073.56] saying -[4073.56 --> 4073.80] as -[4073.80 --> 4074.12] God -[4074.12 --> 4074.54] saying -[4074.54 --> 4074.84] about -[4074.84 --> 4075.16] him -[4075.16 --> 4075.94] your -[4075.94 --> 4076.54] throne -[4076.54 --> 4077.02] will -[4077.02 --> 4077.38] last -[4077.38 --> 4077.84] forever -[4077.84 --> 4078.12] and -[4078.12 --> 4078.46] ever -[4078.46 --> 4078.88] a -[4078.88 --> 4079.18] scepter -[4079.18 --> 4079.38] of -[4079.38 --> 4079.84] justice -[4079.84 --> 4080.04] will -[4080.04 --> 4080.14] be -[4080.14 --> 4080.34] the -[4080.34 --> 4080.64] scepter -[4080.64 --> 4080.80] of -[4080.80 --> 4080.94] your -[4080.94 --> 4081.28] kingdom -[4081.28 --> 4081.82] you -[4081.82 --> 4082.02] have -[4082.02 --> 4082.46] loved -[4082.46 --> 4083.02] righteousness -[4083.02 --> 4083.66] and -[4083.66 --> 4084.12] hated -[4084.12 --> 4085.22] wickedness -[4085.22 --> 4086.36] likewise -[4086.36 --> 4086.70] in -[4086.70 --> 4087.26] Revelation -[4087.26 --> 4087.76] 19 -[4087.76 --> 4088.50] the rider -[4088.50 --> 4088.88] who is -[4088.88 --> 4089.20] on the -[4089.20 --> 4089.64] white -[4089.64 --> 4089.96] horse -[4089.96 --> 4090.40] is -[4090.40 --> 4090.78] called -[4090.78 --> 4091.34] faithful -[4091.34 --> 4092.14] and -[4092.14 --> 4092.86] true -[4092.86 --> 4093.82] Jesus -[4093.82 --> 4094.64] is -[4094.64 --> 4095.08] the -[4095.08 --> 4095.82] hope -[4095.82 --> 4096.44] of -[4096.44 --> 4097.46] and -[4097.46 --> 4097.98] for -[4097.98 --> 4098.38] the -[4098.38 --> 4098.84] Messiah -[4098.84 --> 4099.18] he -[4099.18 --> 4099.60] is -[4099.60 --> 4099.86] the -[4099.86 --> 4100.34] anointed -[4100.34 --> 4100.80] one -[4100.80 --> 4101.30] who -[4101.30 --> 4101.62] is -[4101.62 --> 4102.34] longed -[4102.34 --> 4102.68] for -[4102.68 --> 4109.84] here's -[4109.84 --> 4110.14] why this -[4110.14 --> 4110.44] matters -[4110.44 --> 4110.80] for us -[4110.80 --> 4111.02] today -[4111.02 --> 4113.68] imagine -[4113.68 --> 4114.54] a -[4114.54 --> 4114.98] people -[4114.98 --> 4116.70] besieged -[4116.70 --> 4117.46] by war -[4117.46 --> 4119.58] overcome -[4119.58 --> 4119.60] overcome -[4119.60 --> 4120.36] by an -[4120.36 --> 4120.76] invading -[4120.76 --> 4121.18] army -[4121.18 --> 4122.64] displaced -[4122.64 --> 4123.40] from -[4123.40 --> 4123.62] their -[4123.62 --> 4123.96] home -[4123.96 --> 4126.86] their -[4126.86 --> 4127.16] hearts -[4127.16 --> 4127.34] are -[4127.34 --> 4127.92] full -[4127.92 --> 4128.48] of -[4128.48 --> 4129.36] particular -[4129.36 --> 4129.98] hopes -[4129.98 --> 4130.56] and -[4130.56 --> 4131.22] longings -[4131.22 --> 4133.46] their -[4133.46 --> 4134.20] reality -[4134.20 --> 4134.60] their -[4134.60 --> 4135.24] current -[4135.24 --> 4135.88] reality -[4135.88 --> 4136.64] is -[4136.64 --> 4137.20] chaos -[4137.20 --> 4137.98] and -[4137.98 --> 4138.72] confusion -[4138.72 --> 4141.32] and -[4141.32 --> 4141.48] the -[4141.48 --> 4141.84] answer -[4141.84 --> 4142.12] for -[4142.12 --> 4142.42] them -[4142.42 --> 4144.30] is -[4144.30 --> 4144.44] a -[4144.44 --> 4144.90] Messiah -[4144.90 --> 4146.00] named -[4146.00 --> 4146.98] Jesus -[4146.98 --> 4149.76] and -[4149.76 --> 4149.84] I -[4149.84 --> 4149.96] just -[4149.96 --> 4150.08] want -[4150.08 --> 4150.22] to -[4150.22 --> 4150.88] ask -[4150.88 --> 4151.00] you -[4151.00 --> 4151.12] a -[4151.12 --> 4151.34] simple -[4151.34 --> 4151.80] question -[4151.80 --> 4152.56] that -[4152.56 --> 4152.90] turns out -[4152.90 --> 4153.08] to be -[4153.08 --> 4153.24] not -[4153.24 --> 4153.40] so -[4153.40 --> 4153.64] simple -[4153.64 --> 4153.80] at -[4153.80 --> 4154.06] all -[4154.06 --> 4155.84] if -[4155.84 --> 4156.10] that -[4156.10 --> 4156.34] is -[4156.34 --> 4156.68] true -[4156.68 --> 4156.96] for -[4156.96 --> 4157.32] people -[4157.32 --> 4157.54] who -[4157.54 --> 4157.72] are -[4157.72 --> 4158.30] besieged -[4158.30 --> 4158.84] by war -[4158.84 --> 4159.06] and -[4159.06 --> 4159.76] displaced -[4159.76 --> 4162.66] might -[4162.66 --> 4162.92] that -[4162.92 --> 4163.14] not -[4163.14 --> 4163.56] also -[4163.56 --> 4163.80] be -[4163.80 --> 4164.18] true -[4164.18 --> 4165.58] in -[4165.58 --> 4165.76] whatever -[4165.76 --> 4166.06] your -[4166.06 --> 4166.44] chaos -[4166.44 --> 4166.68] is -[4166.68 --> 4166.90] are -[4166.90 --> 4168.88] might -[4168.88 --> 4169.08] that -[4169.08 --> 4169.28] not -[4169.28 --> 4169.68] also -[4169.68 --> 4169.90] be -[4169.90 --> 4170.28] true -[4170.28 --> 4170.70] in -[4170.70 --> 4170.92] whatever -[4170.92 --> 4171.42] hardship -[4171.42 --> 4171.74] or -[4171.74 --> 4172.14] struggle -[4172.14 --> 4172.62] or -[4172.62 --> 4173.06] trial -[4173.06 --> 4173.40] or -[4173.40 --> 4173.96] tribulation -[4173.96 --> 4174.60] or -[4174.60 --> 4175.36] longing -[4175.36 --> 4175.82] that -[4175.82 --> 4176.04] you -[4176.04 --> 4176.40] have -[4176.40 --> 4177.84] may -[4177.84 --> 4178.02] the -[4178.02 --> 4178.52] deeper -[4178.52 --> 4179.22] longing -[4179.22 --> 4180.30] actually -[4180.30 --> 4181.26] be -[4181.26 --> 4182.22] for -[4182.22 --> 4183.22] Jesus -[4183.22 --> 4185.74] may -[4185.74 --> 4185.92] what -[4185.92 --> 4186.10] you -[4186.10 --> 4186.30] are -[4186.30 --> 4186.76] really -[4186.76 --> 4187.20] hoping -[4187.20 --> 4187.62] for -[4187.62 --> 4187.82] but -[4187.82 --> 4188.18] not -[4188.18 --> 4188.42] quite -[4188.42 --> 4188.62] sure -[4188.62 --> 4188.76] how -[4188.76 --> 4188.88] to -[4188.88 --> 4189.02] put -[4189.02 --> 4189.36] words -[4189.36 --> 4189.64] to -[4189.64 --> 4190.20] this -[4190.20 --> 4190.62] Christmas -[4190.62 --> 4191.28] actually -[4191.28 --> 4191.84] be -[4191.84 --> 4193.18] the -[4193.18 --> 4193.64] Messiah -[4193.64 --> 4195.38] who -[4195.38 --> 4195.86] came -[4195.86 --> 4196.24] into -[4196.24 --> 4196.50] this -[4196.50 --> 4196.84] world -[4196.84 --> 4197.86] 2,000 -[4197.86 --> 4198.18] years -[4198.18 --> 4198.58] ago -[4198.58 --> 4199.60] the -[4199.60 --> 4200.00] hope -[4200.00 --> 4200.84] of -[4200.84 --> 4201.40] nations -[4201.40 --> 4203.46] but -[4203.46 --> 4203.62] when -[4203.62 --> 4203.88] this -[4203.88 --> 4204.32] Messiah -[4204.32 --> 4204.88] came -[4204.88 --> 4206.16] so -[4206.16 --> 4206.42] many -[4206.42 --> 4206.76] people -[4206.76 --> 4207.10] missed -[4207.10 --> 4207.34] him -[4207.34 --> 4209.02] and -[4209.02 --> 4209.14] they -[4209.14 --> 4209.38] just -[4209.38 --> 4209.64] kept -[4209.64 --> 4210.02] on -[4210.02 --> 4210.36] keeping -[4210.36 --> 4210.78] on -[4210.78 --> 4212.00] in -[4212.00 --> 4212.16] their -[4212.16 --> 4212.68] misplaced -[4212.68 --> 4213.10] hopes -[4213.10 --> 4213.80] and -[4213.80 --> 4214.36] longings -[4214.36 --> 4214.64] and -[4214.64 --> 4215.10] desires -[4215.10 --> 4217.48] will -[4217.48 --> 4217.66] you -[4217.66 --> 4217.98] miss -[4217.98 --> 4218.22] him -[4218.22 --> 4218.50] this -[4218.50 --> 4219.06] Christmas -[4219.06 --> 4219.80] too -[4219.80 --> 4221.00] will -[4221.00 --> 4221.12] you -[4221.12 --> 4221.34] just -[4221.34 --> 4221.58] keep -[4221.58 --> 4221.80] on -[4221.80 --> 4222.28] pursuing -[4222.28 --> 4222.64] whatever -[4222.64 --> 4222.86] it -[4222.86 --> 4223.02] is -[4223.02 --> 4223.14] you're -[4223.14 --> 4223.44] pursuing -[4223.44 --> 4223.62] in -[4223.62 --> 4223.72] the -[4223.72 --> 4223.96] way -[4223.96 --> 4224.36] that -[4224.36 --> 4224.48] you -[4224.48 --> 4224.62] have -[4224.62 --> 4224.78] been -[4224.78 --> 4225.12] pursuing -[4225.12 --> 4225.48] it -[4225.48 --> 4228.42] in -[4228.42 --> 4229.54] in -[4229.54 --> 4229.88] sort -[4229.88 --> 4229.98] of -[4229.98 --> 4230.60] change -[4230.60 --> 4231.12] theory -[4231.12 --> 4231.80] in -[4231.80 --> 4232.40] systems -[4232.40 --> 4232.88] theories -[4232.88 --> 4233.40] of -[4233.40 --> 4233.82] change -[4233.82 --> 4234.06] there's -[4234.06 --> 4234.30] a -[4234.30 --> 4234.82] phrase -[4234.82 --> 4235.16] that's -[4235.16 --> 4235.50] used -[4235.50 --> 4236.16] that -[4236.16 --> 4236.72] regularly -[4236.72 --> 4237.22] says -[4237.22 --> 4237.40] that -[4237.40 --> 4237.64] says -[4237.64 --> 4237.94] something -[4237.94 --> 4238.28] along -[4238.28 --> 4238.48] these -[4238.48 --> 4238.74] lines -[4238.74 --> 4240.34] your -[4240.34 --> 4240.86] life -[4240.86 --> 4241.90] is -[4241.90 --> 4242.58] perfectly -[4242.58 --> 4244.04] designed -[4244.04 --> 4245.06] set up -[4245.06 --> 4245.62] structured -[4245.62 --> 4246.86] to -[4246.86 --> 4247.18] get -[4247.18 --> 4247.40] the -[4247.40 --> 4247.82] results -[4247.82 --> 4248.08] you're -[4248.08 --> 4248.44] currently -[4248.44 --> 4248.80] getting -[4248.80 --> 4252.58] and -[4252.58 --> 4252.72] so -[4252.72 --> 4252.84] if -[4252.84 --> 4252.96] you -[4252.96 --> 4253.22] want -[4253.22 --> 4253.58] different -[4253.58 --> 4254.16] results -[4254.16 --> 4256.00] maybe -[4256.00 --> 4256.16] it's -[4256.16 --> 4256.30] time -[4256.30 --> 4256.42] for -[4256.42 --> 4256.52] a -[4256.52 --> 4256.66] different -[4256.66 --> 4257.16] structure -[4257.16 --> 4259.14] maybe -[4259.14 --> 4259.30] it's -[4259.30 --> 4259.44] time -[4259.44 --> 4259.58] to -[4259.58 --> 4259.78] try -[4259.78 --> 4260.16] something -[4260.16 --> 4260.58] new -[4260.58 --> 4261.02] and -[4261.02 --> 4261.66] unexpected -[4261.66 --> 4263.44] maybe -[4263.44 --> 4263.64] it's -[4263.64 --> 4263.90] time -[4263.90 --> 4265.16] to -[4265.16 --> 4265.32] look -[4265.32 --> 4265.46] to -[4265.46 --> 4265.78] Jesus -[4265.78 --> 4267.14] and -[4267.14 --> 4267.50] wonder -[4267.50 --> 4268.66] are -[4268.66 --> 4269.04] you -[4269.04 --> 4269.38] what -[4269.38 --> 4269.56] I -[4269.56 --> 4269.72] have -[4269.72 --> 4269.98] been -[4269.98 --> 4271.12] hoping -[4271.12 --> 4271.54] for -[4271.54 --> 4274.60] Jesus -[4274.60 --> 4276.12] is -[4276.12 --> 4276.56] the -[4276.56 --> 4277.66] Messiah -[4277.66 --> 4280.18] and -[4280.18 --> 4280.60] with -[4280.60 --> 4281.68] Jesus -[4281.68 --> 4282.64] comes -[4282.64 --> 4283.50] a -[4283.50 --> 4284.06] picture -[4284.06 --> 4285.42] of hope -[4285.42 --> 4286.10] that I -[4286.10 --> 4286.44] think -[4286.44 --> 4286.78] is -[4286.78 --> 4289.52] marvelous -[4289.52 --> 4290.40] and -[4290.40 --> 4291.18] miraculous -[4291.18 --> 4291.80] that I -[4291.80 --> 4292.04] think -[4292.04 --> 4292.94] makes -[4292.94 --> 4293.82] hearts -[4293.82 --> 4294.82] sing -[4294.82 --> 4295.22] and -[4295.22 --> 4295.96] takes -[4295.96 --> 4296.32] the -[4296.32 --> 4297.74] would-be -[4297.74 --> 4298.52] chaoses -[4298.52 --> 4298.94] and -[4298.94 --> 4299.60] confusions -[4299.60 --> 4299.98] and -[4299.98 --> 4300.92] contradictions -[4300.92 --> 4301.76] of our -[4301.76 --> 4302.10] life -[4302.10 --> 4302.98] and somehow -[4302.98 --> 4303.52] in his -[4303.52 --> 4304.10] majesty -[4304.10 --> 4304.84] pulls -[4304.84 --> 4305.10] them -[4305.10 --> 4305.54] together -[4305.54 --> 4306.98] and -[4306.98 --> 4307.18] so -[4307.18 --> 4307.38] we -[4307.38 --> 4307.80] read -[4307.80 --> 4308.68] the -[4308.68 --> 4309.04] wolf -[4309.04 --> 4309.40] will -[4309.40 --> 4309.70] live -[4309.70 --> 4309.94] with -[4309.94 --> 4310.08] the -[4310.08 --> 4310.38] lamb -[4310.38 --> 4311.28] and -[4311.28 --> 4311.42] the -[4311.42 --> 4311.68] leopard -[4311.68 --> 4311.94] will -[4311.94 --> 4312.16] lie -[4312.16 --> 4312.48] down -[4312.48 --> 4312.64] with -[4312.64 --> 4312.76] the -[4312.76 --> 4312.98] goat -[4312.98 --> 4313.32] the -[4313.32 --> 4313.70] calf -[4313.70 --> 4313.84] and -[4313.84 --> 4313.98] the -[4313.98 --> 4314.30] lion -[4314.30 --> 4314.44] and -[4314.44 --> 4314.58] the -[4314.58 --> 4315.00] yearling -[4315.00 --> 4315.38] together -[4315.38 --> 4315.62] and -[4315.62 --> 4315.80] the -[4315.80 --> 4316.02] little -[4316.02 --> 4316.60] child -[4316.60 --> 4317.22] will -[4317.22 --> 4317.48] lead -[4317.48 --> 4317.64] them -[4317.64 --> 4317.80] the -[4317.80 --> 4318.20] cow -[4318.20 --> 4318.46] will -[4318.46 --> 4318.84] feed -[4318.84 --> 4319.02] with -[4319.02 --> 4319.16] the -[4319.16 --> 4319.48] bear -[4319.48 --> 4319.88] and -[4319.88 --> 4320.02] their -[4320.02 --> 4320.30] young -[4320.30 --> 4320.52] will -[4320.52 --> 4320.70] lie -[4320.70 --> 4321.02] down -[4321.02 --> 4321.42] together -[4321.42 --> 4321.62] and -[4321.62 --> 4321.76] the -[4321.76 --> 4322.10] lion -[4322.10 --> 4322.34] will -[4322.34 --> 4322.52] eat -[4322.52 --> 4322.96] straw -[4322.96 --> 4323.28] like -[4323.28 --> 4323.44] an -[4323.44 --> 4323.80] ox -[4323.80 --> 4324.30] the -[4324.30 --> 4324.76] infant -[4324.76 --> 4325.10] will -[4325.10 --> 4325.44] play -[4325.44 --> 4325.72] near -[4325.72 --> 4325.88] the -[4325.88 --> 4326.40] cobra's -[4326.40 --> 4326.60] den -[4326.60 --> 4326.76] and -[4326.76 --> 4326.90] the -[4326.90 --> 4327.12] young -[4327.12 --> 4327.60] child -[4327.60 --> 4327.82] will -[4327.82 --> 4327.98] put -[4327.98 --> 4328.12] his -[4328.12 --> 4328.42] hand -[4328.42 --> 4328.70] into -[4328.70 --> 4328.88] the -[4328.88 --> 4329.28] viper's -[4329.28 --> 4329.48] nest -[4329.48 --> 4329.88] and -[4329.88 --> 4330.00] they -[4330.00 --> 4330.12] will -[4330.12 --> 4330.34] neither -[4330.34 --> 4330.86] harm -[4330.86 --> 4331.06] nor -[4331.06 --> 4331.44] destroy -[4331.44 --> 4331.86] on -[4331.86 --> 4332.14] all -[4332.14 --> 4332.30] the -[4332.30 --> 4332.54] holy -[4332.54 --> 4332.90] mountain -[4332.90 --> 4333.34] for -[4333.34 --> 4333.52] the -[4333.52 --> 4333.82] earth -[4333.82 --> 4334.02] will -[4334.02 --> 4334.18] be -[4334.18 --> 4334.48] filled -[4334.48 --> 4334.68] with -[4334.68 --> 4334.84] the -[4334.84 --> 4335.16] knowledge -[4335.16 --> 4335.34] of -[4335.34 --> 4335.46] the -[4335.46 --> 4335.72] Lord -[4335.72 --> 4335.94] as -[4335.94 --> 4336.48] waters -[4336.48 --> 4337.24] cover -[4337.24 --> 4337.80] the -[4337.80 --> 4338.08] sea -[4338.08 --> 4340.36] now -[4340.36 --> 4340.46] you -[4340.46 --> 4340.56] know -[4340.56 --> 4340.78] I -[4340.78 --> 4345.26] there -[4345.26 --> 4345.60] is -[4345.60 --> 4346.30] significant -[4346.30 --> 4346.96] sort -[4346.96 --> 4347.14] of -[4347.14 --> 4347.84] scholarly -[4347.84 --> 4348.60] debate -[4348.60 --> 4349.32] around -[4349.32 --> 4349.56] this -[4349.56 --> 4349.94] passage -[4349.94 --> 4350.14] in -[4350.14 --> 4350.48] Isaiah -[4350.48 --> 4350.80] if -[4350.80 --> 4351.28] it's -[4351.28 --> 4351.96] presenting -[4351.96 --> 4352.28] for -[4352.28 --> 4352.48] us -[4352.48 --> 4352.68] a -[4352.68 --> 4353.42] metaphorical -[4353.42 --> 4353.82] image -[4353.82 --> 4354.86] or -[4354.86 --> 4355.34] if -[4355.34 --> 4356.34] the -[4356.34 --> 4356.76] world -[4356.76 --> 4357.14] will -[4357.14 --> 4357.72] literally -[4357.72 --> 4358.06] and -[4358.06 --> 4358.22] the -[4358.22 --> 4358.82] relationships -[4358.82 --> 4359.34] of -[4359.34 --> 4359.90] ecological -[4359.90 --> 4360.52] systems -[4360.52 --> 4360.74] and -[4360.74 --> 4361.08] structures -[4361.08 --> 4361.58] will -[4361.58 --> 4361.96] literally -[4361.96 --> 4362.38] be -[4362.38 --> 4363.84] rewritten -[4363.84 --> 4364.72] in -[4364.72 --> 4365.08] the -[4365.08 --> 4365.64] fullness -[4365.64 --> 4366.36] of -[4366.36 --> 4366.58] the -[4366.58 --> 4367.04] revelation -[4367.04 --> 4367.38] of -[4367.38 --> 4367.54] the -[4367.54 --> 4367.80] kingdom -[4367.80 --> 4368.06] of -[4368.06 --> 4368.34] God -[4368.34 --> 4370.98] and -[4370.98 --> 4371.22] I -[4371.22 --> 4371.46] don't -[4371.46 --> 4371.60] know -[4371.60 --> 4371.78] the -[4371.78 --> 4372.02] answer -[4372.02 --> 4372.20] to -[4372.20 --> 4372.36] that -[4372.36 --> 4372.76] question -[4372.76 --> 4376.78] but -[4376.78 --> 4376.94] what -[4376.94 --> 4377.06] I -[4377.06 --> 4377.22] do -[4377.22 --> 4377.66] know -[4377.66 --> 4379.68] is -[4379.68 --> 4379.88] the -[4379.88 --> 4380.44] power -[4380.44 --> 4381.84] of -[4381.84 --> 4382.94] an -[4382.94 --> 4383.58] image -[4383.58 --> 4384.28] like -[4384.28 --> 4385.00] this -[4385.00 --> 4387.18] that -[4387.18 --> 4387.30] in -[4387.30 --> 4387.46] the -[4387.46 --> 4387.76] midst -[4387.76 --> 4387.98] of -[4387.98 --> 4388.40] all -[4388.40 --> 4388.68] the -[4388.68 --> 4389.62] contradictions -[4389.62 --> 4390.26] of -[4390.26 --> 4390.66] my -[4390.66 --> 4391.62] experiences -[4391.62 --> 4392.60] there -[4392.60 --> 4392.96] can -[4392.96 --> 4393.32] be -[4393.32 --> 4394.22] peace -[4394.22 --> 4395.28] that -[4395.28 --> 4395.40] in -[4395.40 --> 4395.50] the -[4395.50 --> 4395.72] midst -[4395.72 --> 4395.86] of -[4395.86 --> 4396.06] all -[4396.06 --> 4396.28] the -[4396.28 --> 4396.62] the -[4396.62 --> 4396.96] chaos -[4396.96 --> 4397.52] and -[4397.52 --> 4397.68] the -[4397.68 --> 4398.60] tumultuousness -[4398.60 --> 4399.00] of -[4399.00 --> 4399.80] relationships -[4399.80 --> 4400.48] there -[4400.48 --> 4400.78] can -[4400.78 --> 4401.26] be -[4401.26 --> 4402.30] wholeness -[4402.30 --> 4402.78] and -[4402.78 --> 4403.42] restoration -[4403.42 --> 4405.62] that -[4405.62 --> 4405.76] in -[4405.76 --> 4405.92] the -[4405.92 --> 4406.22] midst -[4406.22 --> 4406.66] of -[4406.66 --> 4407.02] whatever -[4407.02 --> 4408.34] longing -[4408.34 --> 4408.92] you -[4408.92 --> 4409.18] are -[4409.18 --> 4409.74] facing -[4409.74 --> 4410.16] there -[4410.16 --> 4410.50] can -[4410.50 --> 4411.06] be -[4411.06 --> 4412.38] resolution -[4412.38 --> 4416.94] that's -[4416.94 --> 4417.20] what -[4417.20 --> 4417.90] the -[4417.90 --> 4418.36] Messiah -[4418.36 --> 4419.44] brings -[4419.44 --> 4421.32] and -[4421.32 --> 4421.50] this -[4421.50 --> 4421.98] picture -[4421.98 --> 4422.36] is -[4422.36 --> 4422.60] given -[4422.60 --> 4422.90] for -[4422.90 --> 4423.20] us -[4423.20 --> 4424.02] in -[4424.02 --> 4424.18] a -[4424.18 --> 4424.48] way -[4424.48 --> 4424.78] that -[4424.78 --> 4425.26] both -[4425.26 --> 4425.72] is -[4425.72 --> 4426.28] available -[4426.28 --> 4426.66] for -[4426.66 --> 4426.96] you -[4426.96 --> 4427.34] right -[4427.34 --> 4427.64] now -[4427.64 --> 4427.86] and -[4427.86 --> 4428.12] right -[4428.12 --> 4428.44] here -[4428.44 --> 4428.66] in -[4428.66 --> 4429.28] relationship -[4429.28 --> 4429.88] to -[4429.88 --> 4430.30] this -[4430.30 --> 4430.94] Messiah -[4430.94 --> 4431.64] and -[4431.64 --> 4431.80] in -[4431.80 --> 4431.94] a -[4431.94 --> 4432.12] way -[4432.12 --> 4432.34] that -[4432.34 --> 4432.86] fills -[4432.86 --> 4433.18] you -[4433.18 --> 4433.44] with -[4433.44 --> 4433.66] the -[4433.66 --> 4434.16] truth -[4434.16 --> 4434.48] of -[4434.48 --> 4434.68] its -[4434.68 --> 4435.12] utter -[4435.12 --> 4435.60] and -[4435.60 --> 4436.04] complete -[4436.04 --> 4436.76] fulfillment -[4436.76 --> 4437.36] when -[4437.36 --> 4437.56] he -[4437.56 --> 4437.88] comes -[4437.88 --> 4438.24] again -[4438.24 --> 4439.30] because -[4439.30 --> 4439.44] you -[4439.44 --> 4439.58] see -[4439.58 --> 4439.76] the -[4439.76 --> 4440.02] hope -[4440.02 --> 4440.30] of -[4440.30 --> 4440.70] Christmas -[4440.70 --> 4441.20] is -[4441.20 --> 4441.46] a -[4441.46 --> 4441.70] two -[4441.70 --> 4442.12] step -[4442.12 --> 4442.74] hope -[4442.74 --> 4442.94] it -[4442.94 --> 4443.12] is -[4443.12 --> 4443.28] an -[4443.28 --> 4443.72] already -[4443.72 --> 4444.06] and -[4444.06 --> 4444.32] not -[4444.32 --> 4444.58] yet -[4444.58 --> 4445.38] reality -[4445.38 --> 4445.70] it -[4445.70 --> 4445.84] is -[4445.84 --> 4446.00] a -[4446.00 --> 4446.28] longing -[4446.28 --> 4446.50] that -[4446.50 --> 4446.62] we -[4446.62 --> 4446.80] can -[4446.80 --> 4447.14] sit -[4447.14 --> 4447.58] in -[4447.58 --> 4447.72] the -[4447.72 --> 4447.98] midst -[4447.98 --> 4448.24] of -[4448.24 --> 4448.38] with -[4448.38 --> 4448.50] the -[4448.50 --> 4448.86] chaos -[4448.86 --> 4449.06] is -[4449.06 --> 4449.30] still -[4449.30 --> 4449.66] happening -[4449.66 --> 4449.96] around -[4449.96 --> 4450.14] us -[4450.14 --> 4450.36] because -[4450.36 --> 4450.56] our -[4450.56 --> 4450.90] eyes -[4450.90 --> 4451.06] are -[4451.06 --> 4451.58] firmly -[4451.58 --> 4452.08] fixed -[4452.08 --> 4452.58] on -[4452.58 --> 4452.80] that -[4452.80 --> 4453.08] day -[4453.08 --> 4453.28] to -[4453.28 --> 4453.64] come -[4453.64 --> 4454.10] when -[4454.10 --> 4454.26] the -[4454.26 --> 4454.66] lion -[4454.66 --> 4455.70] and -[4455.70 --> 4455.82] the -[4455.82 --> 4456.32] yearling -[4456.32 --> 4456.98] will -[4456.98 --> 4457.12] lay -[4457.12 --> 4457.52] down -[4457.52 --> 4458.46] together -[4458.46 --> 4462.32] and -[4462.32 --> 4462.86] that's -[4462.86 --> 4463.10] the -[4463.10 --> 4463.66] story -[4463.66 --> 4464.72] we need -[4464.72 --> 4465.20] to hear -[4465.20 --> 4465.88] over top -[4465.88 --> 4466.14] of -[4466.14 --> 4466.56] our -[4466.56 --> 4467.70] longings -[4467.70 --> 4468.24] over top -[4468.24 --> 4468.50] of -[4468.50 --> 4468.80] our -[4468.80 --> 4470.02] cryings -[4470.02 --> 4470.64] in -[4470.64 --> 4470.98] that -[4470.98 --> 4471.40] day -[4471.40 --> 4471.68] the -[4471.68 --> 4471.94] root -[4471.94 --> 4472.12] of -[4472.12 --> 4472.42] Jesse -[4472.42 --> 4472.68] will -[4472.68 --> 4473.10] stand -[4473.10 --> 4473.28] as -[4473.28 --> 4473.46] a -[4473.46 --> 4473.76] banner -[4473.76 --> 4473.96] for -[4473.96 --> 4474.12] the -[4474.12 --> 4474.44] peoples -[4474.44 --> 4474.62] and -[4474.62 --> 4474.76] the -[4474.76 --> 4475.36] nations -[4475.36 --> 4476.02] will -[4476.02 --> 4476.48] rally -[4476.48 --> 4476.86] toward -[4476.86 --> 4477.20] him -[4477.20 --> 4477.40] and -[4477.40 --> 4477.78] his -[4477.78 --> 4478.64] resting -[4478.64 --> 4479.22] place -[4479.22 --> 4479.70] will -[4479.70 --> 4480.48] be -[4480.48 --> 4481.52] glorious -[4481.52 --> 4511.52] -[4511.52 --> 4511.96] saints -[4511.96 --> 4512.42] of -[4512.42 --> 4513.98] saints -[4513.98 --> 4516.02] proclaiming -[4516.02 --> 4516.80] this -[4516.80 --> 4518.00] is -[4518.00 --> 4518.32] the -[4518.32 --> 4518.84] savior -[4518.84 --> 4519.76] of -[4519.76 --> 4520.08] the -[4520.08 --> 4520.52] world -[4520.52 --> 4520.80] and -[4520.80 --> 4521.22] his -[4521.22 --> 4522.02] name -[4522.02 --> 4522.92] is -[4522.92 --> 4523.92] Jesus -[4523.92 --> 4526.30] it's -[4526.30 --> 4526.80] to him -[4526.80 --> 4527.64] you're -[4527.64 --> 4528.00] invited -[4528.00 --> 4528.34] this -[4528.34 --> 4528.72] Christmas -[4528.72 --> 4529.66] and I -[4529.66 --> 4530.06] pray -[4530.06 --> 4530.78] that you -[4530.78 --> 4531.16] welcome -[4531.16 --> 4532.32] and receive -[4532.32 --> 4533.16] him -[4533.16 --> 4533.94] as the -[4533.94 --> 4534.46] hope -[4534.46 --> 4535.74] of this -[4535.74 --> 4536.10] season -[4536.10 --> 4538.00] let's -[4538.00 --> 4538.16] pray -[4538.16 --> 4538.34] that -[4538.34 --> 4538.70] together -[4538.70 --> 4542.88] Lord -[4542.88 --> 4544.36] our -[4544.36 --> 4545.82] God -[4545.82 --> 4547.92] you -[4547.92 --> 4549.08] have -[4549.08 --> 4549.74] given -[4549.74 --> 4550.16] us -[4550.16 --> 4550.58] an -[4550.58 --> 4551.04] image -[4551.04 --> 4551.46] of -[4551.46 --> 4551.96] hope -[4551.96 --> 4552.22] you -[4552.22 --> 4552.46] have -[4552.46 --> 4552.72] given -[4552.72 --> 4553.02] us -[4553.02 --> 4553.86] a -[4553.86 --> 4554.40] picture -[4554.40 --> 4555.22] of -[4555.22 --> 4556.74] magnificence -[4556.74 --> 4557.06] and -[4557.06 --> 4557.64] beauty -[4557.64 --> 4558.40] a -[4558.40 --> 4559.04] reality -[4559.04 --> 4559.78] of -[4559.78 --> 4560.00] the -[4560.00 --> 4560.40] very -[4560.40 --> 4561.34] structure -[4561.34 --> 4561.64] and -[4561.64 --> 4562.00] order -[4562.00 --> 4562.34] of -[4562.34 --> 4562.56] the -[4562.56 --> 4562.94] world -[4562.94 --> 4563.84] reworked -[4563.84 --> 4564.04] to -[4564.04 --> 4564.32] bring -[4564.32 --> 4564.58] your -[4564.58 --> 4565.08] peace -[4565.08 --> 4565.60] and -[4565.60 --> 4566.32] wholeness -[4566.32 --> 4566.58] to -[4566.58 --> 4566.74] the -[4566.74 --> 4567.04] fore -[4567.04 --> 4569.64] and -[4569.64 --> 4569.84] so -[4569.84 --> 4570.08] in -[4570.08 --> 4570.34] this -[4570.34 --> 4570.78] season -[4570.78 --> 4571.04] of -[4571.04 --> 4571.34] waiting -[4571.34 --> 4571.68] in -[4571.68 --> 4571.94] this -[4571.94 --> 4572.30] season -[4572.30 --> 4572.54] of -[4572.54 --> 4572.96] longing -[4572.96 --> 4573.56] in -[4573.56 --> 4573.86] this -[4573.86 --> 4574.30] season -[4574.30 --> 4574.68] of -[4574.68 --> 4575.64] contradictions -[4575.64 --> 4576.24] and -[4576.24 --> 4576.76] crying -[4576.76 --> 4577.20] out -[4577.20 --> 4577.52] we -[4577.52 --> 4577.92] come -[4577.92 --> 4578.22] to -[4578.22 --> 4578.64] you -[4578.64 --> 4579.62] Messiah -[4579.62 --> 4580.40] Jesus -[4580.40 --> 4580.80] we -[4580.80 --> 4581.08] come -[4581.08 --> 4581.30] to -[4581.30 --> 4581.64] you -[4581.64 --> 4582.32] anointed -[4582.32 --> 4583.26] one -[4583.26 --> 4583.60] we -[4583.60 --> 4583.98] come -[4583.98 --> 4584.26] to -[4584.26 --> 4584.66] you -[4584.66 --> 4585.56] branch -[4585.56 --> 4586.38] of -[4586.38 --> 4587.36] Jesse -[4587.36 --> 4589.42] bear -[4589.42 --> 4589.90] fruit -[4589.90 --> 4590.82] in our -[4590.82 --> 4591.26] hearts -[4591.26 --> 4592.92] grow -[4592.92 --> 4593.50] faith -[4593.50 --> 4594.96] deep -[4594.96 --> 4595.48] in our -[4595.48 --> 4595.86] souls -[4595.86 --> 4596.12] and -[4596.12 --> 4596.52] minds -[4596.52 --> 4599.22] and -[4599.22 --> 4599.54] send -[4599.54 --> 4599.76] us -[4599.76 --> 4600.08] out -[4600.08 --> 4600.90] send -[4600.90 --> 4601.12] us -[4601.12 --> 4601.44] out -[4601.44 --> 4602.58] convicted -[4602.58 --> 4604.22] of -[4604.22 --> 4604.64] your -[4604.64 --> 4605.52] truth -[4605.52 --> 4606.36] send -[4606.36 --> 4606.56] us -[4606.56 --> 4606.86] out -[4606.86 --> 4607.80] convicted -[4607.80 --> 4608.60] that -[4608.60 --> 4609.20] you -[4609.20 --> 4610.12] alone -[4610.12 --> 4610.56] are -[4610.56 --> 4610.78] the -[4610.78 --> 4611.18] hope -[4611.18 --> 4612.08] of -[4612.08 --> 4612.24] our -[4612.24 --> 4612.64] hearts -[4612.64 --> 4613.60] the -[4613.60 --> 4614.02] longing -[4614.02 --> 4614.98] of -[4614.98 --> 4615.16] our -[4615.16 --> 4615.52] souls -[4615.52 --> 4617.24] we -[4617.24 --> 4617.42] pray -[4617.42 --> 4617.62] this -[4617.62 --> 4617.90] Jesus -[4617.90 --> 4618.14] in -[4618.14 --> 4618.38] your -[4618.38 --> 4618.80] name -[4618.80 --> 4619.94] amen -[4619.94 --> 4628.16] our -[4628.16 --> 4628.40] Lord -[4628.40 --> 4628.76] Jesus -[4628.76 --> 4631.84] was -[4631.84 --> 4632.20] quite -[4632.20 --> 4632.66] sure -[4632.66 --> 4633.82] in -[4633.82 --> 4634.34] himself -[4634.34 --> 4635.36] that -[4635.36 --> 4637.10] these -[4637.10 --> 4637.56] kinds -[4637.56 --> 4637.88] of -[4637.88 --> 4638.50] words -[4638.50 --> 4638.94] true -[4638.94 --> 4639.22] as -[4639.22 --> 4639.42] they -[4639.42 --> 4639.62] may -[4639.62 --> 4640.14] be -[4640.14 --> 4641.36] would -[4641.36 --> 4641.96] themselves -[4641.96 --> 4642.36] not -[4642.36 --> 4642.64] be -[4642.64 --> 4643.12] enough -[4643.12 --> 4645.38] to -[4645.38 --> 4645.64] fill -[4645.64 --> 4645.82] our -[4645.82 --> 4646.20] hearts -[4646.20 --> 4647.18] and -[4647.18 --> 4647.56] souls -[4647.56 --> 4648.00] and -[4648.00 --> 4648.16] so -[4648.16 --> 4648.32] he -[4648.32 --> 4648.56] gave -[4648.56 --> 4648.78] us -[4648.78 --> 4649.14] this -[4649.14 --> 4650.10] supper -[4650.10 --> 4650.76] not -[4650.76 --> 4651.16] only -[4651.16 --> 4651.50] as -[4651.50 --> 4651.66] a -[4651.66 --> 4652.12] memorial -[4652.12 --> 4652.52] of -[4652.52 --> 4652.74] his -[4652.74 --> 4653.28] sacrifice -[4653.28 --> 4653.66] but -[4653.66 --> 4653.82] as -[4653.82 --> 4654.04] a -[4654.04 --> 4654.50] means -[4654.50 --> 4654.80] of -[4654.80 --> 4655.44] taking -[4655.44 --> 4655.70] the -[4655.70 --> 4656.04] truth -[4656.04 --> 4656.24] of -[4656.24 --> 4656.38] the -[4656.38 --> 4656.66] word -[4656.66 --> 4656.90] just -[4656.90 --> 4657.38] proclaimed -[4657.38 --> 4657.92] and -[4657.92 --> 4658.22] making -[4658.22 --> 4658.42] it -[4658.42 --> 4658.64] something -[4658.64 --> 4658.86] you -[4658.86 --> 4659.00] can -[4659.00 --> 4659.36] hang -[4659.36 --> 4659.58] on -[4659.58 --> 4659.82] to -[4659.82 --> 4661.02] and -[4661.02 --> 4661.34] take -[4661.34 --> 4661.70] into -[4661.70 --> 4662.04] you -[4662.04 --> 4663.56] so -[4663.56 --> 4663.72] we -[4663.72 --> 4664.08] come -[4664.08 --> 4664.40] to -[4664.40 --> 4664.86] this -[4664.86 --> 4665.78] table -[4665.78 --> 4666.44] together -[4666.44 --> 4667.76] so -[4667.76 --> 4667.96] that -[4667.96 --> 4668.42] here -[4668.42 --> 4669.02] we -[4669.02 --> 4669.34] might -[4669.34 --> 4670.10] receive -[4670.10 --> 4671.04] the -[4671.04 --> 4671.68] truth -[4671.68 --> 4672.30] of -[4672.30 --> 4673.02] the -[4673.02 --> 4673.38] kingdom -[4673.38 --> 4673.92] come -[4673.92 --> 4674.40] and -[4674.40 --> 4675.02] coming -[4675.02 --> 4676.62] as -[4676.62 --> 4676.80] we -[4676.80 --> 4677.04] come -[4677.04 --> 4677.20] to -[4677.20 --> 4677.40] this -[4677.40 --> 4677.68] table -[4677.68 --> 4677.88] we -[4677.88 --> 4678.04] have -[4678.04 --> 4678.24] some -[4678.24 --> 4678.68] liturgy -[4678.68 --> 4679.12] that -[4679.12 --> 4679.24] we -[4679.24 --> 4679.40] will -[4679.40 --> 4679.64] walk -[4679.64 --> 4679.84] through -[4679.84 --> 4680.08] that -[4680.08 --> 4680.96] carries -[4680.96 --> 4681.40] us -[4681.40 --> 4682.06] forward -[4682.06 --> 4682.56] to -[4682.56 --> 4682.90] meet -[4682.90 --> 4683.36] Jesus -[4683.36 --> 4683.88] here -[4683.88 --> 4684.14] and -[4684.14 --> 4684.32] to -[4684.32 --> 4684.52] be -[4684.52 --> 4684.96] filled -[4684.96 --> 4686.06] by -[4686.06 --> 4686.28] his -[4686.28 --> 4686.78] presence -[4686.78 --> 4687.42] through -[4687.42 --> 4687.62] the -[4687.62 --> 4687.90] spirit -[4687.90 --> 4689.08] and -[4689.08 --> 4689.22] so -[4689.22 --> 4689.36] I -[4689.36 --> 4689.66] invite -[4689.66 --> 4689.90] you -[4689.90 --> 4690.54] lift -[4690.54 --> 4691.00] up -[4691.00 --> 4691.34] your -[4691.34 --> 4691.80] hearts -[4691.80 --> 4695.04] let -[4695.04 --> 4695.20] us -[4695.20 --> 4695.38] give -[4695.38 --> 4695.76] thanks -[4695.76 --> 4695.94] to -[4695.94 --> 4696.08] the -[4696.08 --> 4696.30] Lord -[4696.30 --> 4696.48] our -[4696.48 --> 4696.82] God -[4696.82 --> 4700.42] let's -[4700.42 --> 4700.60] pray -[4700.60 --> 4700.98] together -[4700.98 --> 4703.64] with -[4703.64 --> 4704.10] joy -[4704.10 --> 4704.46] we -[4704.46 --> 4704.98] praise -[4704.98 --> 4705.38] you -[4705.38 --> 4705.88] gracious -[4705.88 --> 4706.34] God -[4706.34 --> 4707.10] for -[4707.10 --> 4707.30] you -[4707.30 --> 4707.48] have -[4707.48 --> 4707.90] created -[4707.90 --> 4708.24] heaven -[4708.24 --> 4708.50] and -[4708.50 --> 4708.78] earth -[4708.78 --> 4709.30] made -[4709.30 --> 4709.52] us -[4709.52 --> 4709.68] in -[4709.68 --> 4709.82] your -[4709.82 --> 4710.16] image -[4710.16 --> 4710.36] and -[4710.36 --> 4710.60] kept -[4710.60 --> 4711.04] covenant -[4711.04 --> 4711.36] with -[4711.36 --> 4711.62] us -[4711.62 --> 4712.24] even -[4712.24 --> 4712.66] when -[4712.66 --> 4712.88] we -[4712.88 --> 4713.16] fell -[4713.16 --> 4713.44] into -[4713.44 --> 4713.76] sin -[4713.76 --> 4715.04] we -[4715.04 --> 4715.28] give -[4715.28 --> 4715.44] you -[4715.44 --> 4715.82] thanks -[4715.82 --> 4716.00] for -[4716.00 --> 4716.28] Jesus -[4716.28 --> 4716.74] Christ -[4716.74 --> 4717.04] who -[4717.04 --> 4717.36] by -[4717.36 --> 4717.66] his -[4717.66 --> 4718.04] life -[4718.04 --> 4718.68] death -[4718.68 --> 4718.94] and -[4718.94 --> 4719.46] resurrection -[4719.46 --> 4720.08] opened -[4720.08 --> 4720.72] for -[4720.72 --> 4721.12] us -[4721.12 --> 4721.72] the -[4721.72 --> 4722.10] way -[4722.10 --> 4722.36] of -[4722.36 --> 4722.82] life -[4722.82 --> 4723.56] everlasting -[4723.56 --> 4724.94] amen -[4724.94 --> 4728.90] Jesus -[4728.90 --> 4730.30] before -[4730.30 --> 4730.84] he -[4730.84 --> 4731.48] suffered -[4731.48 --> 4732.08] gave -[4732.08 --> 4732.56] us -[4732.56 --> 4732.96] this -[4732.96 --> 4733.64] memorial -[4733.64 --> 4733.98] of -[4733.98 --> 4734.16] his -[4734.16 --> 4734.76] sacrifice -[4734.76 --> 4735.26] until -[4735.26 --> 4736.04] he -[4736.04 --> 4736.36] comes -[4736.36 --> 4736.70] again -[4736.70 --> 4737.72] and -[4737.72 --> 4737.84] the -[4737.84 --> 4738.00] Lord -[4738.00 --> 4738.40] Jesus -[4738.40 --> 4739.18] on -[4739.18 --> 4739.32] the -[4739.32 --> 4739.56] night -[4739.56 --> 4739.74] that -[4739.74 --> 4739.84] he -[4739.84 --> 4740.04] was -[4740.04 --> 4740.48] betrayed -[4740.48 --> 4740.96] took -[4740.96 --> 4741.32] bread -[4741.32 --> 4742.34] and -[4742.34 --> 4742.50] when -[4742.50 --> 4742.62] he -[4742.62 --> 4742.76] had -[4742.76 --> 4742.98] given -[4742.98 --> 4743.52] thanks -[4743.52 --> 4743.84] he -[4743.84 --> 4744.52] broke -[4744.52 --> 4744.74] it -[4744.74 --> 4744.94] and -[4744.94 --> 4745.16] said -[4745.16 --> 4745.54] this -[4745.54 --> 4745.96] is -[4745.96 --> 4746.24] my -[4746.24 --> 4746.74] body -[4746.74 --> 4747.42] which -[4747.42 --> 4747.62] is -[4747.62 --> 4747.82] for -[4747.82 --> 4748.12] you -[4748.12 --> 4749.36] do -[4749.36 --> 4749.76] this -[4749.76 --> 4750.12] in -[4750.12 --> 4750.70] remembrance -[4750.70 --> 4751.38] of -[4751.38 --> 4751.64] me -[4751.64 --> 4753.14] and -[4753.14 --> 4753.24] in -[4753.24 --> 4753.40] the -[4753.40 --> 4753.70] same -[4753.70 --> 4754.26] way -[4754.26 --> 4754.92] after -[4754.92 --> 4755.46] supper -[4755.46 --> 4755.76] he -[4755.76 --> 4756.28] took -[4756.28 --> 4756.48] the -[4756.48 --> 4756.76] cup -[4756.76 --> 4757.10] saying -[4757.10 --> 4757.44] this -[4757.44 --> 4757.92] cup -[4757.92 --> 4758.40] is -[4758.40 --> 4758.74] the -[4758.74 --> 4759.32] new -[4759.32 --> 4760.02] covenants -[4760.02 --> 4760.32] in -[4760.32 --> 4760.56] my -[4760.56 --> 4760.94] blood -[4760.94 --> 4762.44] do -[4762.44 --> 4762.98] this -[4762.98 --> 4763.64] whenever -[4763.64 --> 4763.94] you -[4763.94 --> 4764.24] drink -[4764.24 --> 4764.48] it -[4764.48 --> 4765.10] in -[4765.10 --> 4765.54] remembrance -[4765.54 --> 4766.48] of -[4766.48 --> 4766.80] me -[4766.80 --> 4768.14] for -[4768.14 --> 4768.44] whenever -[4768.44 --> 4768.72] you -[4768.72 --> 4768.98] eat -[4768.98 --> 4769.26] this -[4769.26 --> 4769.62] bread -[4769.62 --> 4769.94] and -[4769.94 --> 4770.30] drink -[4770.30 --> 4770.76] this -[4770.76 --> 4771.28] cup -[4771.28 --> 4771.56] you -[4771.56 --> 4772.04] proclaim -[4772.04 --> 4772.48] the -[4772.48 --> 4772.86] Lord's -[4772.86 --> 4773.14] death -[4773.14 --> 4773.88] until -[4773.88 --> 4774.34] he -[4774.34 --> 4774.84] comes -[4774.84 --> 4775.46] again -[4775.46 --> 4776.74] this -[4776.74 --> 4777.32] is -[4777.32 --> 4777.62] the -[4777.62 --> 4778.20] mystery -[4778.20 --> 4779.08] of -[4779.08 --> 4779.38] our -[4779.38 --> 4779.80] faith -[4779.80 --> 4781.84] your -[4781.84 --> 4782.24] death -[4782.24 --> 4782.56] oh -[4782.56 --> 4782.98] Christ -[4782.98 --> 4783.34] we -[4783.34 --> 4783.82] proclaim -[4783.82 --> 4784.90] your -[4784.90 --> 4785.58] resurrection -[4785.58 --> 4786.12] we -[4786.12 --> 4786.56] affirm -[4786.56 --> 4786.86] with -[4786.86 --> 4787.26] joy -[4787.26 --> 4788.22] your -[4788.22 --> 4788.72] coming -[4788.72 --> 4789.02] we -[4789.02 --> 4789.38] await -[4789.38 --> 4789.70] with -[4789.70 --> 4790.08] hope -[4790.08 --> 4791.30] glory -[4791.30 --> 4791.70] be -[4791.70 --> 4791.98] to -[4791.98 --> 4792.34] you -[4792.34 --> 4792.72] Lord -[4792.72 --> 4793.26] Jesus -[4793.26 --> 4795.64] church -[4795.64 --> 4796.02] family -[4796.02 --> 4796.90] the -[4796.90 --> 4797.18] Lord -[4797.18 --> 4797.44] has -[4797.44 --> 4797.86] prepared -[4797.86 --> 4798.16] his -[4798.16 --> 4798.50] table -[4798.50 --> 4798.76] for -[4798.76 --> 4799.16] all -[4799.16 --> 4799.44] who -[4799.44 --> 4800.04] love -[4800.04 --> 4800.34] him -[4800.34 --> 4800.56] and -[4800.56 --> 4800.94] trust -[4800.94 --> 4801.14] in -[4801.14 --> 4801.40] him -[4801.40 --> 4801.90] alone -[4801.90 --> 4802.30] for -[4802.30 --> 4802.84] their -[4802.84 --> 4803.36] salvation -[4803.36 --> 4803.68] and -[4803.68 --> 4803.96] so -[4803.96 --> 4804.42] come -[4804.42 --> 4804.70] to -[4804.70 --> 4805.12] this -[4805.12 --> 4805.90] table -[4805.90 --> 4806.32] you -[4806.32 --> 4806.56] who -[4806.56 --> 4806.86] have -[4806.86 --> 4807.18] much -[4807.18 --> 4807.52] faith -[4807.52 --> 4807.84] and -[4807.84 --> 4808.06] you -[4808.06 --> 4808.28] who -[4808.28 --> 4808.54] would -[4808.54 --> 4808.80] like -[4808.80 --> 4808.96] to -[4808.96 --> 4809.16] have -[4809.16 --> 4809.48] more -[4809.48 --> 4810.30] come -[4810.30 --> 4810.48] to -[4810.48 --> 4810.68] this -[4810.68 --> 4811.00] table -[4811.00 --> 4811.28] you -[4811.28 --> 4811.48] who -[4811.48 --> 4811.66] have -[4811.66 --> 4811.96] been -[4811.96 --> 4812.14] to -[4812.14 --> 4812.32] the -[4812.32 --> 4812.70] sacrament -[4812.70 --> 4813.38] often -[4813.38 --> 4813.90] and you -[4813.90 --> 4814.14] who -[4814.14 --> 4814.30] have -[4814.30 --> 4814.58] not -[4814.58 --> 4814.84] been -[4814.84 --> 4815.44] for a -[4815.44 --> 4815.64] long -[4815.64 --> 4815.92] time -[4815.92 --> 4816.20] for the -[4816.20 --> 4816.46] Lord -[4816.46 --> 4816.78] Jesus -[4816.78 --> 4817.46] is inviting -[4817.46 --> 4817.72] you -[4817.72 --> 4818.14] to -[4818.14 --> 4818.54] himself -[4818.54 --> 4819.10] come -[4819.10 --> 4819.30] to -[4819.30 --> 4819.54] this -[4819.54 --> 4819.84] table -[4819.84 --> 4820.14] you -[4820.14 --> 4820.40] who -[4820.40 --> 4820.54] have -[4820.54 --> 4820.96] tried -[4820.96 --> 4821.22] to -[4821.22 --> 4821.48] follow -[4821.48 --> 4821.82] Jesus -[4821.82 --> 4822.34] and -[4822.34 --> 4822.58] you -[4822.58 --> 4822.80] who -[4822.80 --> 4823.08] have -[4823.08 --> 4823.44] failed -[4823.44 --> 4824.10] come -[4824.10 --> 4824.32] to -[4824.32 --> 4824.58] this -[4824.58 --> 4825.00] table -[4825.00 --> 4825.60] because -[4825.60 --> 4826.10] Jesus -[4826.10 --> 4826.72] Christ -[4826.72 --> 4827.56] is -[4827.56 --> 4828.46] raised -[4828.46 --> 4829.16] come -[4829.16 --> 4829.88] to -[4829.88 --> 4830.16] this -[4830.16 --> 4830.64] table -[4830.64 --> 4831.28] because -[4831.28 --> 4831.62] it is -[4831.62 --> 4832.04] Christmas -[4832.04 --> 4832.94] and the -[4832.94 --> 4833.28] Lord -[4833.28 --> 4833.92] comes -[4833.92 --> 4834.50] to -[4834.50 --> 4834.82] you -[4834.82 --> 4836.76] come -[4836.76 --> 4837.56] if you're -[4837.56 --> 4838.00] here in -[4838.00 --> 4838.38] person -[4838.38 --> 4839.10] or if -[4839.10 --> 4839.50] you're joining -[4839.50 --> 4839.88] us -[4839.88 --> 4840.54] online -[4840.54 --> 4841.14] come -[4841.14 --> 4841.92] because -[4841.92 --> 4842.42] Christ -[4842.42 --> 4843.02] meets -[4843.02 --> 4843.34] us -[4843.34 --> 4844.02] here -[4844.02 --> 4845.04] the -[4845.04 --> 4845.26] gifts -[4845.26 --> 4845.46] of -[4845.46 --> 4845.80] God -[4845.80 --> 4846.40] for -[4846.40 --> 4846.56] the -[4846.56 --> 4846.88] people -[4846.88 --> 4847.68] of -[4847.68 --> 4848.00] God -[4848.00 --> 4849.68] as we -[4849.68 --> 4850.06] come to -[4850.06 --> 4850.48] the table -[4850.48 --> 4850.92] together -[4850.92 --> 4852.30] we do -[4852.30 --> 4852.62] that -[4852.62 --> 4853.76] in a way -[4853.76 --> 4854.20] that -[4854.20 --> 4856.02] celebrates -[4856.02 --> 4857.26] and highlights -[4857.26 --> 4857.86] our -[4857.86 --> 4858.56] shared -[4858.56 --> 4859.24] family -[4859.24 --> 4859.86] fellowship -[4859.86 --> 4860.32] and so -[4860.32 --> 4860.84] this is a -[4860.84 --> 4862.04] family table -[4862.04 --> 4862.46] for the -[4862.46 --> 4862.78] church -[4862.78 --> 4863.56] and you -[4863.56 --> 4863.88] will be -[4863.88 --> 4864.30] invited -[4864.30 --> 4864.86] kind of -[4864.86 --> 4865.34] row by -[4865.34 --> 4865.76] row -[4865.76 --> 4866.36] section -[4866.36 --> 4867.08] by section -[4867.08 --> 4867.58] to come -[4867.58 --> 4867.96] forward -[4867.96 --> 4868.32] and to -[4868.32 --> 4868.60] gather -[4868.60 --> 4869.02] in a -[4869.02 --> 4869.40] circle -[4869.40 --> 4870.22] around -[4870.22 --> 4870.62] this -[4870.62 --> 4871.04] table -[4871.04 --> 4872.42] and as -[4872.42 --> 4872.78] you are -[4872.78 --> 4873.60] past -[4873.60 --> 4874.04] the -[4874.04 --> 4874.56] bread -[4874.56 --> 4874.82] we -[4874.82 --> 4875.98] encourage -[4875.98 --> 4876.16] you -[4876.16 --> 4876.50] as you -[4876.50 --> 4876.82] pass -[4876.82 --> 4877.00] the -[4877.00 --> 4877.26] bread -[4877.26 --> 4877.80] to say -[4877.80 --> 4878.00] the -[4878.00 --> 4878.34] body -[4878.34 --> 4878.56] of -[4878.56 --> 4878.96] Christ -[4878.96 --> 4879.38] given -[4879.38 --> 4879.62] for -[4879.62 --> 4879.90] you -[4879.90 --> 4880.36] as -[4880.36 --> 4880.52] you -[4880.52 --> 4880.84] pass -[4880.84 --> 4881.06] the -[4881.06 --> 4881.44] juice -[4881.44 --> 4881.68] we -[4881.68 --> 4882.04] encourage -[4882.04 --> 4882.22] you -[4882.22 --> 4882.38] to -[4882.38 --> 4882.62] say -[4882.62 --> 4882.84] the -[4882.84 --> 4883.16] blood -[4883.16 --> 4883.42] of -[4883.42 --> 4883.78] Christ -[4883.78 --> 4884.42] shed -[4884.42 --> 4884.64] for -[4884.64 --> 4884.94] you -[4884.94 --> 4885.38] and -[4885.38 --> 4885.52] then -[4885.52 --> 4885.78] down -[4885.78 --> 4885.96] the -[4885.96 --> 4886.32] line -[4886.32 --> 4886.60] that -[4886.60 --> 4886.72] will -[4886.72 --> 4887.00] go -[4887.00 --> 4887.54] around -[4887.54 --> 4888.06] the -[4888.06 --> 4888.38] table -[4888.38 --> 4889.16] we -[4889.16 --> 4889.32] have -[4889.32 --> 4889.66] ushers -[4889.66 --> 4889.84] who -[4889.84 --> 4889.98] will -[4889.98 --> 4890.46] indicate -[4890.46 --> 4891.32] when -[4891.32 --> 4891.76] the -[4891.76 --> 4892.00] next -[4892.00 --> 4892.32] row -[4892.32 --> 4892.68] is -[4892.68 --> 4892.90] to -[4892.90 --> 4893.18] go -[4893.18 --> 4893.78] and -[4893.78 --> 4894.12] throughout -[4894.12 --> 4894.32] we'll -[4897.96 --> 4898.34] not -[4898.34 --> 4898.56] up -[4898.56 --> 4898.78] here -[4898.78 --> 4899.88] if -[4899.88 --> 4900.16] you -[4900.16 --> 4900.48] would -[4900.48 --> 4900.78] like -[4900.78 --> 4901.14] to -[4901.14 --> 4902.12] receive -[4902.12 --> 4902.84] the -[4902.84 --> 4903.28] supper -[4903.28 --> 4903.52] but -[4903.52 --> 4903.64] are -[4903.64 --> 4903.98] unable -[4903.98 --> 4904.20] to -[4904.20 --> 4904.40] come -[4904.40 --> 4904.56] to -[4904.56 --> 4904.70] the -[4904.70 --> 4904.90] front -[4904.90 --> 4905.34] please -[4905.34 --> 4905.74] indicate -[4905.74 --> 4906.10] that -[4906.10 --> 4906.28] to -[4906.28 --> 4906.44] the -[4906.44 --> 4906.72] usher -[4906.72 --> 4907.20] and -[4907.20 --> 4907.30] they -[4907.30 --> 4907.44] will -[4907.44 --> 4907.64] meet -[4907.64 --> 4907.88] you -[4907.88 --> 4908.14] at -[4908.14 --> 4908.36] your -[4908.36 --> 4908.82] table -[4908.82 --> 4909.12] there -[4909.12 --> 4909.36] and -[4909.36 --> 4909.66] serve -[4909.66 --> 4909.86] you -[4909.86 --> 4910.10] in -[4910.10 --> 4910.30] that -[4910.30 --> 4910.76] place -[4910.76 --> 4912.48] additionally -[4912.48 --> 4912.86] if -[4912.86 --> 4913.14] you -[4913.14 --> 4913.40] would -[4913.40 --> 4913.74] like -[4913.74 --> 4914.50] gluten -[4914.50 --> 4914.98] free -[4914.98 --> 4916.00] servings -[4916.00 --> 4916.26] each -[4916.26 --> 4916.60] tray -[4916.60 --> 4916.84] has -[4916.84 --> 4916.96] a -[4916.96 --> 4917.08] little -[4917.08 --> 4917.44] cup -[4917.44 --> 4917.90] of -[4917.90 --> 4918.22] gluten -[4918.22 --> 4918.48] free -[4918.48 --> 4918.78] bread -[4918.78 --> 4919.06] in -[4919.06 --> 4919.18] the -[4919.18 --> 4919.36] middle -[4919.36 --> 4919.64] for -[4919.64 --> 4919.92] you -[4919.92 --> 4920.60] there -[4920.60 --> 4921.66] and -[4921.66 --> 4921.84] then -[4921.84 --> 4922.30] lastly -[4922.30 --> 4923.02] as -[4923.02 --> 4923.20] we -[4923.20 --> 4923.34] are -[4923.34 --> 4923.66] moving -[4923.66 --> 4924.08] through -[4924.08 --> 4924.50] this -[4924.50 --> 4925.42] time -[4925.42 --> 4925.84] together -[4925.84 --> 4926.06] if -[4926.06 --> 4926.16] you -[4926.16 --> 4926.28] would -[4926.28 --> 4926.44] like -[4926.44 --> 4926.60] to -[4926.60 --> 4926.82] meet -[4926.82 --> 4927.16] someone -[4927.16 --> 4927.42] for -[4927.42 --> 4927.84] prayer -[4927.84 --> 4928.46] there -[4928.46 --> 4928.60] are -[4928.60 --> 4928.88] people -[4928.88 --> 4929.10] who -[4929.10 --> 4929.26] will -[4929.26 --> 4929.46] be -[4929.46 --> 4929.72] at -[4929.72 --> 4929.86] the -[4929.86 --> 4930.16] back -[4930.16 --> 4931.26] they -[4931.26 --> 4931.46] should -[4931.46 --> 4931.62] have -[4931.62 --> 4931.86] yellow -[4931.86 --> 4932.14] name -[4932.14 --> 4932.46] tags -[4932.46 --> 4932.78] on -[4932.78 --> 4932.96] who -[4932.96 --> 4933.12] will -[4933.12 --> 4933.34] meet -[4933.34 --> 4933.60] you -[4933.60 --> 4934.08] and -[4934.08 --> 4934.34] pray -[4934.34 --> 4934.60] with -[4934.60 --> 4934.86] you -[4934.86 --> 4935.68] either -[4935.68 --> 4936.14] before -[4936.14 --> 4936.34] you -[4936.34 --> 4936.52] come -[4936.52 --> 4936.72] up -[4936.72 --> 4936.84] or -[4936.84 --> 4936.98] in -[4936.98 --> 4937.14] lieu -[4937.14 --> 4937.30] of -[4937.30 --> 4937.54] coming -[4937.54 --> 4937.80] up -[4937.80 --> 4938.02] or -[4938.02 --> 4938.34] after -[4938.34 --> 4938.52] you -[4938.52 --> 4938.76] come -[4938.76 --> 4938.92] up -[4938.92 --> 4939.16] however -[4939.16 --> 4939.38] the -[4939.38 --> 4939.58] Lord -[4939.58 --> 4940.06] leads -[4940.06 --> 4940.20] in -[4940.20 --> 4940.36] that -[4940.36 --> 4940.66] regard -[4940.66 --> 4941.72] I'd -[4941.72 --> 4941.86] like -[4941.86 --> 4942.00] to -[4942.00 --> 4942.30] invite -[4942.30 --> 4942.56] all -[4942.56 --> 4942.80] those -[4942.80 --> 4942.92] who -[4942.92 --> 4943.06] will -[4943.06 --> 4943.28] help -[4943.28 --> 4943.54] us -[4943.54 --> 4943.78] in -[4943.78 --> 4943.92] the -[4943.92 --> 4944.20] service -[4944.20 --> 4944.38] so -[4944.38 --> 4944.50] the -[4944.50 --> 4944.86] elders -[4944.86 --> 4945.88] and -[4945.88 --> 4946.18] the -[4946.18 --> 4946.64] worship -[4946.64 --> 4947.02] leaders -[4947.02 --> 4947.36] and -[4947.36 --> 4947.52] the -[4947.52 --> 4947.78] back -[4947.78 --> 4947.90] of -[4947.90 --> 4948.12] house -[4948.12 --> 4948.42] people -[4948.42 --> 4948.70] to -[4948.70 --> 4948.90] come -[4948.90 --> 4949.06] up -[4949.06 --> 4949.24] front -[4949.24 --> 4949.54] now -[4949.54 --> 4950.22] they'll -[4950.22 --> 4950.58] receive -[4950.58 --> 4950.78] the -[4950.78 --> 4951.02] first -[4951.02 --> 4951.32] table -[4951.32 --> 4951.56] so -[4951.56 --> 4951.70] that -[4951.70 --> 4951.82] they -[4951.82 --> 4951.98] can -[4951.98 --> 4952.48] facilitate -[4952.48 --> 4952.74] the -[4952.74 --> 4952.94] rest -[4952.94 --> 4953.08] of -[4953.08 --> 4953.32] us -[4953.32 --> 4954.18] receiving -[4954.18 --> 4954.42] from -[4954.42 --> 4954.56] the -[4954.56 --> 4954.86] table -[4954.86 --> 4955.98] throughout -[4974.50 --> 4976.16] the -[4976.44 --> 4977.16] to -[4977.16 --> 4979.08] family -[4979.08 --> 4980.52] who -[4980.52 --> 4981.32] help -[4981.46 --> 4982.14] for -[4982.14 --> 4982.32] the -[4982.32 --> 4983.78] value -[4983.78 --> 4984.74] of -[4984.74 --> 4985.96] j -[4990.10 --> 4990.90] is -[4992.88 --> 4993.34] the -[4993.34 --> 4993.90] level -[4993.90 --> 4994.04] in -[4994.04 --> 4999.20] d -[4999.96 --> 5003.96] love -[5003.96 --> 5033.94] Thank you. -[5033.96 --> 5063.94] Thank you. -[5063.96 --> 5093.94] Thank you. -[5093.96 --> 5123.94] Thank you. -[5123.96 --> 5153.94] Thank you. -[5153.96 --> 5183.94] Thank you. -[5183.96 --> 5185.96] Thank you. -[5213.96 --> 5215.96] Thank you. -[5243.96 --> 5245.96] Thank you. -[5245.96 --> 5247.96] Thank you. -[5247.96 --> 5249.96] Thank you. -[5249.96 --> 5251.96] Thank you. -[5251.96 --> 5253.96] Thank you. -[5253.96 --> 5255.96] Thank you. -[5255.96 --> 5257.96] Thank you. -[5257.96 --> 5259.96] Thank you. -[5259.96 --> 5261.96] Thank you. -[5261.96 --> 5263.96] Thank you. -[5263.96 --> 5265.96] Thank you. -[5265.96 --> 5267.96] Thank you. -[5267.96 --> 5269.96] Thank you. -[5269.96 --> 5271.96] Thank you. -[5271.96 --> 5273.96] Thank you. -[5273.96 --> 5275.96] Thank you. -[5275.96 --> 5277.96] Thank you. -[5277.96 --> 5279.96] Thank you. -[5279.96 --> 5281.96] Thank you. -[5281.96 --> 5283.96] Thank you. -[5309.96 --> 5311.96] Thank you. -[5311.96 --> 5313.96] Thank you. -[5313.96 --> 5330.96] Oh come let us adore, oh come let us adore, oh come let us adore, -[5330.96 --> 5348.96] He can find your love, the healing angel, fullness it, and come let us adore him, -[5348.96 --> 5362.96] Peace has come for our King in strength -[5378.96 --> 5408.94] From the squalor of a borrowed stable -[5408.94 --> 5414.78] By the Spirit and a virgin's faith -[5414.78 --> 5420.04] To the anguish and the shame of scandal -[5420.04 --> 5426.16] Came the Savior of the human race -[5426.16 --> 5432.86] But the skies were filled with the praise of heaven -[5432.86 --> 5437.72] Shepherds listen as the angels tell -[5437.72 --> 5444.06] Of the gift of God come down to men -[5444.06 --> 5448.68] At the dawning of Emmanuel -[5448.68 --> 5460.02] King of heaven, now the friend of sinners -[5460.02 --> 5465.02] Humble servant in the Father's hands -[5465.02 --> 5470.60] Filled with power and the Holy Spirit -[5470.60 --> 5476.94] Filled with mercy for the broken dead -[5476.94 --> 5483.28] Yes, He walked my road and He felt my pain -[5483.28 --> 5488.28] To them sorrows that I know so what -[5488.28 --> 5494.28] Yet His righteousness give me hope again -[5494.28 --> 5500.62] I will follow my Emmanuel -[5500.62 --> 5509.96] Though the kisses of a friend's betrayal -[5509.96 --> 5515.96] He was lifted on a cruel cross -[5515.96 --> 5521.96] He was punished for a world's transgressions -[5521.96 --> 5528.30] He was suffering to save the lost -[5528.30 --> 5534.30] He fights for breath, He fights for me -[5534.30 --> 5540.64] Loosing sinners from the claims of hell -[5540.64 --> 5545.98] And with a shout, our souls are free -[5545.98 --> 5547.32] That He's healing for the Lord -[5547.32 --> 5562.32] Now He's standing in the place of honor -[5562.32 --> 5563.66] He's healing for the Lord -[5563.66 --> 5567.66] And with glory on the highest throne -[5567.66 --> 5568.30] In the Lord -[5568.96 --> 5574.06] In nerves receiving for His home he lounded -[5574.06 --> 5578.94] Till His Father comes to bring him whole -[5578.94 --> 5585.90] He blesses skies will próxim as the trumpet swell -[5586.00 --> 5589.24] Paul above heaven or the geral -[5589.32 --> 5590.46] Of the dead -[5590.98 --> 5596.90] But the pride will come to aimmers' hour -[5596.90 --> 5602.12] Giving glory to Emmanuel -[5602.12 --> 5608.82] Then the skies will part as the trumpet sounds -[5608.82 --> 5613.82] Hope of heaven or the fear of hell -[5613.82 --> 5620.42] But the bride will run to her lover's arms -[5620.42 --> 5625.90] Giving glory to Emmanuel -[5625.90 --> 5655.88] Hallelujah -[5655.88 --> 5667.88] Christ the Savior of the world -[5667.88 --> 5673.88] He has come -[5673.88 --> 5679.88] Alleluia -[5679.88 --> 5687.88] Alleluia -[5687.88 --> 5693.88] To the highest name of all -[5693.88 --> 5699.88] Alleluia -[5699.88 --> 5701.88] Alleluia -[5701.88 --> 5711.88] Alleluia -[5711.88 --> 5717.88] Alleluia -[5717.88 --> 5723.88] Christ the Savior of the world -[5723.88 --> 5729.88] He has come -[5729.88 --> 5731.88] Alleluia -[5731.88 --> 5735.88] Alleluia -[5735.88 --> 5737.88] Alleluia -[5737.88 --> 5739.88] Alleluia -[5739.88 --> 5741.88] Alleluia -[5741.88 --> 5743.88] Alleluia -[5743.88 --> 5747.88] Alleluia -[5747.88 --> 5749.88] Alleluia -[5749.88 --> 5753.88] Alleluia -[5753.88 --> 5757.88] Alleluia -[5757.88 --> 5759.88] Alleluia -[5759.88 --> 5761.88] Alleluia -[5761.88 --> 5763.88] Alleluia -[5763.88 --> 5765.88] Alleluia -[5765.88 --> 5769.88] Alleluia -[5769.88 --> 5771.88] Alleluia -[5771.88 --> 5775.88] Alleluia -[5775.88 --> 5779.88] Alleluia -[5779.88 --> 5781.88] Alleluia -[5781.88 --> 5783.88] Alleluia -[5783.88 --> 5785.88] Alleluia -[5785.88 --> 5787.88] Alleluia -[5787.88 --> 5789.88] Alleluia -[5789.88 --> 5791.88] Alleluia -[5791.88 --> 5795.88] Alleluia -[5795.88 --> 5799.88] Alleluia -[5799.88 --> 5801.88] Alleluia -[5801.88 --> 5803.88] Alleluia -[5803.88 --> 5807.88] Alleluia -[5807.88 --> 5809.88] Alleluia -[5809.88 --> 5811.88] Alleluia -[5811.88 --> 5813.88] Alleluia -[5813.88 --> 5815.88] Alleluia -[5815.88 --> 5817.88] Alleluia -[5817.88 --> 5836.82] Alleluia, Alleluia, Christ the Savior, He has come. -[5836.82 --> 5856.12] Alleluia, Alleluia, to the highest name of all. -[5856.12 --> 5867.76] Alleluia, You're the highest name of all. -[5867.76 --> 5873.76] Alleluia. -[5886.12 --> 5916.10] Alleluia, Alleluia, to the highest name of all. -[5916.10 --> 5921.82] Alleluia, lleluia, to the highest name of all. -[5921.82 --> 5924.88] Alleluia, Alleluia, to the highest name of all. -[5924.96 --> 5929.94] Alleluia, alleluia, to the highest name of all. -[5929.94 --> 5933.66] Alleluia, O CPU and Liane, to the highest name of all. -[5933.68 --> 5945.80] Alleluia, to the highest name of all. -[5945.80 --> 5954.78] Jesus, loving shepherd -[5954.78 --> 5959.12] Thine of the branches -[5959.12 --> 5966.04] Son of God -[5966.04 --> 5969.40] Prince of Peace -[5969.40 --> 5973.56] Wonderful Counselor -[5973.56 --> 5978.04] Lord of the universe -[5978.04 --> 5982.50] Light of the world -[5982.50 --> 5987.34] Praise Him -[5987.34 --> 5991.42] Lord above all those -[5991.42 --> 5995.82] King above all kings -[5995.82 --> 5999.60] God's only Son -[5999.60 --> 6004.54] The Prince of Peace -[6004.54 --> 6007.54] Who by His Spirit -[6007.54 --> 6012.98] Comes to live in us -[6012.98 --> 6016.08] Master and Friend -[6016.08 --> 6020.14] Jesus -[6020.14 --> 6025.02] Name above all names -[6025.02 --> 6029.02] Beautiful Savior -[6029.02 --> 6034.02] Glorious Lord -[6034.02 --> 6037.52] Emmanuel -[6037.52 --> 6043.38] God is with us -[6043.38 --> 6046.46] Blessed Redeemer -[6046.46 --> 6050.52] Living Word -[6050.52 --> 6061.28] Lord above all names -[6072.86 --> 6074.46] My Lord -[6074.46 --> 6075.40] Love -[6075.40 --> 6076.46] Brother -[6076.46 --> 6089.98] He became sin and knew no sin -[6089.98 --> 6095.12] That we might become His righteousness -[6095.12 --> 6103.98] He humbled Himself and carried the cross -[6103.98 --> 6107.40] Love so amazing -[6107.40 --> 6113.18] Love so amazing -[6113.18 --> 6119.04] Jesus, Messiah -[6119.04 --> 6127.08] Name above all names -[6127.08 --> 6130.80] Blessed Redeemer -[6130.80 --> 6135.06] Emmanuel -[6135.06 --> 6142.22] The rescue for sinners -[6142.22 --> 6148.22] The rescue for sinners -[6148.22 --> 6153.44] Jesus, Messiah -[6153.44 --> 6158.86] Lord of all -[6158.86 --> 6164.86] His body's a bed -[6164.86 --> 6166.86] His blood the one -[6166.86 --> 6170.86] Broken and fire -[6170.86 --> 6173.86] All for love -[6173.86 --> 6176.86] The cold and trampled -[6176.86 --> 6182.28] And the mail was torn -[6182.28 --> 6185.28] Love so amazing -[6185.28 --> 6190.28] Love so amazing -[6190.28 --> 6195.12] Jesus, Messiah -[6195.12 --> 6200.54] And the fire -[6200.54 --> 6204.54] Name above all names -[6204.54 --> 6206.54] Blessed Redeemer -[6206.54 --> 6209.38] And the land -[6209.38 --> 6212.54] For rescue for sinners -[6212.54 --> 6230.08] There still -[6230.08 --> 6234.96] And He did it -[6234.96 --> 6235.96] For all lands -[6235.96 --> 6243.78] All the hope is in You -[6243.78 --> 6249.96] All the hope is in You -[6249.96 --> 6254.66] All the glory to You -[6254.66 --> 6261.96] The light of the world -[6261.96 --> 6267.16] Jesus Messiah -[6267.16 --> 6275.40] Name above all things -[6275.40 --> 6279.16] Blessed Redeemer -[6279.16 --> 6283.26] Emmanuel -[6283.26 --> 6289.96] Rescue, our Savior -[6289.96 --> 6295.16] Blessed Redeemer -[6295.16 --> 6301.16] Jesus Messiah -[6301.16 --> 6307.16] Lord of all -[6307.16 --> 6312.36] Jesus Messiah -[6312.36 --> 6318.36] Lord of all -[6318.36 --> 6345.40] As you go this week, go as those who know that Jesus Messiah, Lord of all, goes with you. Go in the power of His name and with His blessing. Receive the blessing of God. -[6345.40 --> 6369.60] God, go before you to lead you. God, go behind you to protect you. God, go beneath you to support you. God, go beside you to befriend you. Do not be afraid. Let the blessing of God come upon you today. Do not be afraid. Go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Amen. -[6369.60 --> 6371.60] Amen. -[6371.60 --> 6373.60] Amen. -[6373.60 --> 6381.60] Amen. -[6381.60 --> 6396.74] The Savior comes, the Savior promised long. -[6396.74 --> 6409.80] Let every heart prepare a throne, and every voice a song. -[6411.60 --> 6423.44] He comes, the praise that you release in Satan's bondage held. -[6423.44 --> 6437.44] The gates of brass before him burst, the iron ferrisis. -[6437.44 --> 6450.46] He has a broken heart to find, the wounded soul to cure. -[6450.46 --> 6464.30] And with the treasures of his grace, to reach the humble world. -[6464.30 --> 6478.30] Your land, Hosanna's Prince of Peace, your well-updance shall proclaim. -[6478.30 --> 6492.30] And let eternal marches reign with your beloved name. -[6492.30 --> 6499.30] The Savior comes, the Lord, and the Lord. -[6499.30 --> 6504.30] The Savior comes, the Lord. -[6504.30 --> 6509.30] The Savior comes, the Lord. -[6509.30 --> 6524.30] The Savior comes, the Lord. -[6524.30 --> 6528.30] The Savior comes, the Lord. -[6528.30 --> 6541.30] The Savior comes, the Lord. -[6541.30 --> 6545.30] The Savior comes, the Lord. -[6545.30 --> 6549.30] The Savior comes, the Lord. -[6549.30 --> 6571.30] The Savior comes, the Lord. -[6571.30 --> 6601.28] Thank you. -[6601.30 --> 6631.28] Thank you. -[6631.30 --> 6661.28] Thank you. -[6661.30 --> 6691.28] Thank you. -[6691.30 --> 6693.30] Thank you. -[6721.30 --> 6723.30] Thank you. -[6751.30 --> 6753.30] Thank you. -[6781.30 --> 6783.30] Thank you. -[6811.30 --> 6813.30] Thank you. -[6841.30 --> 6843.30] Thank you. -[6871.30 --> 6873.30] Thank you. -[6873.30 --> 6875.30] Thank you. -[6875.30 --> 6877.30] Thank you. -[6877.30 --> 6879.30] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, February 16, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, February 16, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 8dc0e43aa58bffbe0850f7e1867ddc700b74801e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, February 16, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,123 +0,0 @@ -• The speaker's love is boundless and forgiving, transcending the drops in the ocean. -• The speaker advises someone to open their heart and start again. -• They compare life to climbing an endless hill, but emphasize that one's worth is not defined by effort or achievement. -• The speaker encourages living like you're loved, without guilt or shame, as this is possible through God's love and mercy. -• They advise walking like you're free and staying true to who you are. -• The lyrics of a song about God's love and restoration -• Church service announcements: - + New members class meeting at pastor Chris's house after worship - + Young adults are collecting care packages for students abroad, including notes and small gifts -• Shipping and box distribution -• Upcoming church meetings (pastoral elders, Christianity Explored) -• Coldest Night of the Year charity event on February 22nd -• Invitation to stand for worship and welcome others -• Welcome and greeting from God in worship -• Reading from Titus 3 and worship song "Holy, Holy, Holy" -• Praise and worship of God -• Recognition of God as holy, merciful, and almighty -• Acknowledgement that God is a person in the Blessed Trinity -• Request for spiritual renewal and purification from sin -• Reflection on the importance of Jesus Christ as the heir of all things and the radiance of God's glory -• Discussion of the need for purification from sin through faith in Jesus Christ -• Silent prayer and purification through Christ's blood -• Prayer for clean hands, pure hearts, and seeking God's face -• Repentance and casting down idols -• Seeking God's forgiveness and cleansing -• The River song sung by the congregation -• Offering collection and explanation of its purpose -• Advocate organization and their mission to help local women, babies, children, and teens in need -• Worship and praise to Jesus -• Question from a child about who is the greatest person they've met (Jesus) -• Transition into children's worship time discussing people and characteristics of community -• Discussion on Jesus' control over everything, even difficult choices -• Congregation is led in prayer by the pastor -• Prayers for various family members dealing with cancer -• Reading and discussion of 1 Thessalonians 4 -• The importance of a personal faith that makes a difference in one's life -• The "rise of the nuns" phenomenon, where people claim no religion despite growing up in Christian communities -• God's sanctification of the church and living as set apart -• Paul's encouragement to the Thessalonians in his letter, celebrating their good reception of faith -• Applying the frame of celebration and encouragement to the current community -• Various ways God is working in and through the community: - • People asking hard questions of faith - • New believers coming forward - • People digging deeper in their faith - • Sharing of lives and burdens - • Suffering entered into with support from others - • Ministry efforts, such as meals being made and people being helped financially and otherwise -• Paul's urging the church to continue growing and being transformed. -• The danger of becoming complacent in one's spiritual life and thinking "I'm good enough" or "I've already changed so much" -• The importance of continuing to submit to God and not getting satisfied with past progress -• The call to live more fully into a transformed way of being, as revealed by Jesus -• The authority of Scripture, specifically the instruction to take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ -• The distinction between personal desires for compromise and the higher call of God's will -• The importance of being perfect as God is perfect -• The distinction between "kill sin" and "put to death" -• The meaning of the word "sanctified" -• The connection between hagios/holiness and sanctification -• Clarifying terms: justification, sanctification, and their roles in salvation -• Justification by faith in Jesus Christ alone -• Change in status and reality before God through justification -• Movement from objects of wrath to lavishly loved children of God -• Sanctification as the application of justification's declaration -• Three dimensions of sanctification: positional, progressive, and perfected realities -• Positional sanctification in 2 Thessalonians 2:13 -• Progressive sanctification in 1 Thessalonians 4:3-7 -• Perfected sanctification in 1 Thessalonians 5 -• Connection between sanctification and the coming of Jesus Christ -• Positional sanctification -• Relationship between judge and acquitted -• Sanctification as being set apart for God's purposes -• Living out of positional sanctification transforms lives -• Adoption as a metaphor for the gospel and its impact -• Adoption into a new family through legal exchange -• Learning to adjust to new identity and way of life -• Positional sanctification as a result of adoption -• Progressive sanctification as ongoing work of the Holy Spirit -• Transforming relationships with God, others, and the world -• Sanctification as a process leading to holiness -• The idea of perfected sanctification and its relationship to glorification and resurrection -• Inaugurated eschatology, where Jesus' life, death, and resurrection began the kingdom of God on earth -• Relationship between positional, progressive, and perfected sanctification concepts -• Understanding theological truths through multiple terms and categories -• Sanctification and its relationship to the church -• The work of the Holy Spirit in sanctification -• Personal holiness and positional vs. progressive sanctification -• Avoiding "cheap grace" or legalism through a balanced understanding of sanctification -• The importance of understanding sanctification for Christian living -• The speaker feels a sense of struggle and frustration with obeying Jesus -• Disobedience is seen as demeans one's identity and rejects the transformation given by God -• A metaphor is used to compare not being fully committed to one's faith to asking for an orphanage while sitting at one's new family's table -• The concept of holiness is repeated in various verses, including its grounding in the Holy Spirit's person and work -• The call to live a holy life is emphasized, with rejecting this instruction seen as rejecting God Himself -• The Holy Spirit is a fundamental aspect of being Christian -• Transformation through justification and sanctification -• Practical implications of spiritual gifts, especially the gift of obedience and transformation -• Positional vs progressive sanctification -• Relationship with God, growth in holiness, and purpose in life -• Sexual lives and relationships under the guidance of the Holy Spirit -• Living in a culture that celebrates sexual hedonism and being able to celebrate holiness to God -• Celebrating being like God and being transformed into the image of Jesus Christ -• The idea of life is actually true and greater joy, and about who you are is actually true and greater good -• A way of being in the world is so much more fulfilling because anything else ends up being vapid and empty -• True fulfillment comes from relationship with God and understanding what he has done for us -• The need for Christians to live out their faith in a genuine way -• The challenges of being a Christian in today's world -• The importance of standing out and living like Jesus -• The opportunity to make a difference in the world by following Jesus' example -• The role of prayer in transforming lives and relationships -• Consecration for divine purpose -• Being sent out in the power of the Holy Spirit -• Overcoming trials, tribulations, questions, and opposition -• Purification of the heart to be holy and set apart for God -• Choosing to be holy and obedient to God's will -• Purification and cleansing of the heart -• Prayers and blessings for purification and holiness -• Commissioning by God to serve the world -• Protection, support, and friendship from God in various aspects of life -• Overcoming fear and going in peace -• Joy, dancing, and praise filling homes and communities -• God's light shining in darkness and glory being hailed worldwide -• Praises and singing to the heavens -• Repeating phrases of gratitude ("Thank you") -• Response to "Thank you" ("You're welcome") \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, February 16, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, February 16, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index fbbce3c907549e6d586ec5b7f8a773caf8cc9a51..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, February 16, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2615 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 1.36] Against you -[1.36 --> 4.86] If you wanna know -[4.86 --> 6.74] How far my love can go -[6.74 --> 8.40] Just how deep -[8.40 --> 10.32] Just how wide -[10.32 --> 12.36] If you wanna see -[12.36 --> 14.20] How much you mean to me -[14.20 --> 16.08] Look at my hands -[16.08 --> 18.00] Look at my side -[18.00 --> 20.54] If you could count the times -[20.54 --> 22.22] And say you are -[22.22 --> 23.24] Forgiving -[23.24 --> 26.36] It's more than the drops in the ocean -[30.00 --> 36.70] Don't think you need to settle -[36.70 --> 38.36] For a substitute -[38.36 --> 42.28] When I'm the only love -[42.28 --> 43.90] That changes you -[43.90 --> 46.58] And I am for you -[46.58 --> 50.58] I'm not against you -[50.58 --> 54.26] I am for you -[54.26 --> 58.10] I'm not against you -[58.10 --> 61.54] If you wanna know -[61.54 --> 63.42] How far my love can go -[63.42 --> 65.08] Just how deep -[65.08 --> 66.98] Just how wide -[66.98 --> 69.04] If you wanna see -[69.04 --> 70.90] How much you mean to me -[70.90 --> 72.78] Look at my hands -[72.78 --> 74.68] Look at my side -[74.68 --> 77.22] If you could count the times -[77.22 --> 78.94] And say you are -[78.94 --> 79.90] Forgiving -[79.90 --> 83.10] It's more than the drops in the ocean -[83.10 --> 92.38] Open your heart -[92.38 --> 95.26] It's time that we start again -[95.26 --> 99.96] Open your heart -[99.96 --> 102.74] It's time that we start again -[102.74 --> 106.90] If you wanna know -[106.90 --> 108.78] How far my love can go -[108.78 --> 110.42] Just how deep -[110.42 --> 112.00] Just how wide -[112.00 --> 114.38] If you wanna see -[114.38 --> 116.26] How much you mean to me -[116.26 --> 118.14] Look at my hands -[118.14 --> 119.54] Look at my side -[119.54 --> 122.58] If you could count the times -[122.58 --> 124.26] And say you are -[124.26 --> 125.26] Forgiving -[125.26 --> 128.70] It's more than the drops in the ocean -[128.70 --> 136.08] The drops in the ocean -[136.08 --> 143.82] I am for you -[143.82 --> 144.86] I am for you -[144.86 --> 149.10] I am not against you -[149.10 --> 152.46] I am for you -[152.46 --> 156.82] I am not against you -[156.82 --> 176.84] You're not the only one -[176.84 --> 178.68] Who feels like this -[178.68 --> 180.82] Feeling like you lose -[180.82 --> 182.46] More than you win -[182.46 --> 185.50] Like life is just an endless hill -[185.50 --> 186.54] You climb -[186.54 --> 188.70] You try and try -[188.70 --> 190.96] But never arrive -[190.96 --> 193.96] I am telling you something -[193.96 --> 194.98] This racing -[194.98 --> 195.96] This running -[195.96 --> 198.72] Oh you are working way too hard -[198.72 --> 199.72] You are working way too hard -[199.72 --> 200.92] And this perfection -[200.92 --> 201.94] You are chasing -[201.94 --> 204.06] Is just energy wasted -[204.06 --> 206.72] Cause he loves you like you are -[206.72 --> 210.18] So go ahead and live like you're loved -[210.18 --> 214.76] It's okay to act like you've been set free -[214.76 --> 218.20] His love has made you more than enough -[218.20 --> 222.98] So go ahead and be who he made you to be -[222.98 --> 226.18] And live like you're loved -[226.18 --> 230.18] Live like you're loved -[230.18 --> 237.18] Live like you're loved -[237.18 --> 242.02] And live like you know you're valuable -[242.02 --> 246.54] Like you know the one that holds your soul -[246.54 --> 250.72] Cause mercy has called you by your name -[250.72 --> 255.00] Don't be afraid to live in that grace -[255.00 --> 257.96] Oh I'm telling you something -[257.96 --> 260.16] This God we believe in -[260.16 --> 262.64] Yeah he changed everything -[262.64 --> 264.74] No more guilt -[264.74 --> 265.78] No more shame -[265.78 --> 267.76] He took all that away -[267.76 --> 270.96] Gave us a reason to sing -[270.96 --> 274.16] So go ahead and live like you're loved -[274.16 --> 278.80] It's okay to act like you've been set free -[278.80 --> 282.20] His love has made you more than enough -[282.20 --> 286.96] So go ahead and be who he made you to be -[286.96 --> 291.08] And live like you're loved -[291.08 --> 295.14] Live like you're loved -[295.14 --> 299.14] Live like you're loved -[299.14 --> 303.16] Live like you're loved -[303.16 --> 305.04] Live like you're loved -[305.04 --> 306.96] Walk like you're free -[306.96 --> 310.96] Stay like you know who he made you to be -[310.96 --> 313.74] Live like you're loved -[313.74 --> 314.40] Live like you're loved -[314.40 --> 318.44] His love is all that you'll ever need -[318.44 --> 320.28] Live like you're loved -[320.28 --> 321.92] Live like you're loved -[321.92 --> 323.34] Live like you're loved -[323.34 --> 324.18] Live like you're loved -[324.18 --> 325.08] Live like you're loved -[325.08 --> 325.52] Live like you're loved -[325.52 --> 327.96] Live like you're loved -[327.96 --> 330.24] His love has made you more than enough -[330.24 --> 333.40] Live like you're loved -[333.40 --> 335.28] Live like you're loved -[335.28 --> 335.96] Live like you're loved -[335.96 --> 337.16] Live like you're loved -[337.16 --> 338.16] Live like you're loved -[338.16 --> 339.32] Live like you're loved -[339.32 --> 340.12] Move like you're loved -[340.12 --> 342.80] To act like you've been set free -[342.80 --> 346.52] His love has made you more than enough -[346.52 --> 351.06] So go ahead and be who he made you to be -[351.06 --> 353.88] And live like you're loved -[353.88 --> 356.96] Live like you're loved -[356.96 --> 361.00] Live like you're loved -[361.00 --> 365.08] Live like you're loved -[365.08 --> 369.06] Live like you're loved -[369.06 --> 370.98] Walk like you're free -[370.98 --> 375.00] Stand like you know who he made you to be -[375.00 --> 377.10] Live like you're loved -[377.10 --> 379.06] Like you believe -[379.06 --> 383.04] His love is all that you'll ever need -[383.04 --> 385.28] Live like you're loved -[399.06 --> 408.00] When you're at the end of the road -[408.00 --> 412.24] And it's not the one that you would have chosen -[412.24 --> 415.78] When you're at the end of your road -[415.78 --> 417.30] And you're holding on -[417.30 --> 420.08] But feel like you're falling -[420.08 --> 423.50] With every option exhausted -[423.50 --> 427.64] You tried everything you know -[427.64 --> 432.20] You saw light then you lost it -[432.20 --> 434.08] But there is still hope -[434.08 --> 439.20] Like the fire in the night -[439.20 --> 443.14] Like the ocean parted wide -[443.14 --> 446.94] Like the grave empty inside -[446.94 --> 451.00] You will see he still does -[451.00 --> 452.92] Miracles -[452.92 --> 454.92] Miracles -[454.92 --> 456.94] Miracles -[456.94 --> 459.04] Miracles -[459.04 --> 462.46] Even if you don't see it now -[462.46 --> 464.18] Without a doubt -[464.18 --> 466.98] He's already moving -[466.98 --> 470.40] There's not a pain that you hold -[470.40 --> 472.00] He doesn't know -[472.00 --> 474.84] And he isn't using -[474.84 --> 478.14] With every option exhausted -[478.14 --> 482.38] You tried everything you know -[482.38 --> 486.98] So reach for something beyond it -[486.98 --> 489.92] Cause he is our hope -[489.92 --> 493.84] Like the fire in the night -[493.84 --> 497.76] Like the ocean parted wide -[497.76 --> 501.58] Like the grave empty inside -[501.58 --> 505.62] You will see he still does -[505.62 --> 507.06] Miracles -[507.06 --> 508.98] Miracles -[508.98 --> 510.82] Miracles -[510.82 --> 512.82] Miracles -[512.82 --> 514.82] Miracles -[514.82 --> 516.82] Miracles -[516.82 --> 518.82] Miracles -[518.82 --> 520.82] Miracles -[520.82 --> 525.38] A broken heart can be restored -[525.38 --> 528.58] Good morning -[528.58 --> 532.26] Welcome to church -[532.26 --> 533.82] A special welcome -[533.82 --> 536.28] If you are a guest with us this morning -[536.28 --> 539.16] We are really excited to have you here -[539.16 --> 541.94] And to worship together this morning -[541.94 --> 542.86] My name is Chris -[542.86 --> 545.42] I'm one of the pastors here at Emanuel -[545.42 --> 546.72] And it's my pleasure -[546.72 --> 547.84] Along with a few others -[547.84 --> 551.12] To lead in our shared worship together this morning -[551.12 --> 552.36] Before we begin -[552.36 --> 554.58] We've got a couple announcements to run through -[554.58 --> 556.96] And so we wanted to share that with you -[556.96 --> 558.28] So I'm going to invite Josh to the front -[558.28 --> 560.34] He's going to make his way forward -[560.34 --> 562.96] And then as Josh is getting ready -[562.96 --> 564.52] Just my first announcement -[564.52 --> 566.92] After worship today -[566.92 --> 569.40] We're going to have a new members class -[569.40 --> 572.46] And so if you've been part of that class with us -[572.46 --> 574.90] We're going to meet again today -[574.90 --> 576.00] After worship -[576.00 --> 577.78] But today we're actually going to meet at my house -[577.78 --> 579.82] So you're going to come over for lunch -[579.82 --> 581.74] And we'll have our class there -[581.74 --> 582.86] So just talk to me afterwards -[582.86 --> 585.26] If you have any questions about that -[585.26 --> 586.18] And grab me afterwards -[586.18 --> 586.96] Josh go ahead -[586.96 --> 590.58] So the young adults are doing the care packages again -[590.58 --> 592.28] For the students that are abroad -[592.28 --> 595.68] We've got nine young adults -[595.68 --> 597.38] Who are currently in school -[597.38 --> 601.16] So the way it goes is like usual -[601.16 --> 603.84] About $50 in the care package -[603.84 --> 605.48] About the size of a shoebox -[605.48 --> 608.28] With various things that they would need for school -[608.28 --> 611.08] Or clothing or knickknacks or fun things -[611.08 --> 612.38] One guy got Lego -[612.38 --> 614.66] And he loved that -[614.66 --> 616.74] So if you get a guy -[616.74 --> 618.14] That would be an awesome choice too -[618.14 --> 619.34] Candy, anything -[619.34 --> 621.52] Just a little note to share -[621.52 --> 624.76] To show them that they're still anchored in this community -[624.76 --> 626.22] And that we're still thinking about them -[626.22 --> 629.90] And then also a little note -[629.90 --> 632.54] To them asking about how school's going -[632.54 --> 633.92] About how life's going -[633.92 --> 635.98] To give that personal connection -[635.98 --> 638.70] If you would like to volunteer to make one -[638.70 --> 642.10] Again just bring the stuff in a bag or a box to me -[642.10 --> 646.70] And we deal with the shipping to the location -[646.70 --> 650.50] So don't try to buy a box from Canada Post or Shoppers -[650.50 --> 652.46] Because we're just going to buy one -[652.46 --> 654.34] So if you would like to volunteer -[654.34 --> 656.02] Please come talk to me after church -[656.02 --> 657.12] Or email me -[657.12 --> 660.90] We would like to have them all in by next Sunday -[660.90 --> 662.58] So that I can ship them out that Tuesday -[662.58 --> 663.82] Thank you very much -[663.82 --> 666.28] Thanks Josh -[666.28 --> 670.32] I wanted to clarify that women also like Lego -[670.32 --> 676.58] We have a couple other announcements to run through -[676.58 --> 679.30] On Tuesday, pastoral elders -[679.30 --> 682.20] We are meeting here at church at 7.30 -[682.20 --> 683.96] And so if you're part of that group -[683.96 --> 685.18] Be prepared for that -[685.18 --> 688.74] On Wednesday, Christianity Explored is meeting -[688.74 --> 691.98] We're having our last official meeting on Wednesday -[691.98 --> 693.62] And so please, if you've been part of that -[693.62 --> 694.46] Be ready for that -[694.46 --> 698.34] And then lastly, on February 22nd -[698.34 --> 700.14] Which is this coming Saturday -[700.14 --> 702.42] Coldest night of the year is happening -[702.42 --> 703.60] And so we've got a group of people -[703.60 --> 704.68] Who are already signed up -[704.68 --> 706.86] To walk and participate in that -[706.86 --> 707.92] You're encouraged -[707.92 --> 709.92] You can still sign up this week to join the group -[709.92 --> 712.06] Or you can go online and make a donation -[712.06 --> 713.96] To those people there as well -[713.96 --> 716.28] I think that's it for our announcements -[716.28 --> 718.60] And so, as you're able -[718.60 --> 719.24] And where you are -[719.24 --> 720.38] I'm going to invite you to stand -[720.38 --> 722.82] And we can be called into God's presence -[722.82 --> 724.68] We can receive his greeting -[724.68 --> 727.02] As he welcomes us in this space -[727.02 --> 728.30] To worship together -[728.30 --> 732.14] Following the receiving of God's greeting -[732.14 --> 734.12] I'm going to invite you to turn to those around you -[734.12 --> 736.00] And just welcome them into worship -[736.00 --> 737.44] Again, just a simple reminder -[737.44 --> 738.76] It's cough and cold season -[738.76 --> 740.46] So not everyone wants to shake hands -[740.46 --> 742.32] And so start with eye contact -[742.32 --> 744.64] And then see if someone makes that first move -[744.64 --> 746.56] To shake hands or otherwise -[746.56 --> 749.16] Receive the greeting of our God -[749.16 --> 754.46] Grace and mercy and peace to you -[754.46 --> 755.66] From God our Father -[755.66 --> 757.54] From the Lord Jesus Christ -[757.54 --> 759.74] His Son and our Savior -[759.74 --> 762.76] Through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit -[762.76 --> 763.96] Amen -[770.46 --> 772.46] Amen -[800.46 --> 809.52] We are also welcomed into a time of worship -[809.52 --> 811.54] With a reading from Titus 3 -[811.54 --> 815.74] But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared -[815.74 --> 816.96] He saved us -[816.96 --> 819.36] Not because of righteous things we had done -[819.36 --> 821.12] But because of his mercy -[821.12 --> 824.02] He saved us through the washing of rebirth -[824.02 --> 825.84] And renewal by the Holy Spirit -[825.84 --> 828.16] Whom he poured out on us generously -[828.16 --> 830.54] Through Jesus Christ our Savior -[830.54 --> 834.18] So that having been justified by his grace -[834.18 --> 835.92] We might become heirs -[835.92 --> 838.32] Having the hope of eternal life -[858.16 --> 865.04] Holy, holy, holy -[865.04 --> 872.42] Lord God Almighty -[872.42 --> 879.76] Early in the morning -[879.76 --> 886.48] Our song shall rise to thee -[886.48 --> 893.36] Holy, holy, holy -[893.36 --> 894.02] Holy, holy -[894.02 --> 901.04] Merciful and mighty -[901.04 --> 909.04] God in three persons -[909.04 --> 913.08] Blessed Trinity -[913.08 --> 917.90] Holy, holy, holy -[917.90 --> 919.96] Holy, holy -[919.96 --> 921.96] Holy, holy -[921.96 --> 929.64] All the saints adore thee -[929.64 --> 936.40] Casting down their golden crowns -[936.40 --> 942.28] Around the glassy sea -[942.28 --> 950.16] Cherubim and seraphim -[950.16 --> 956.66] Falling down before thee -[956.66 --> 959.10] Who were the Lord -[959.10 --> 961.48] Who were the Lord -[961.48 --> 968.54] And evermore shall be -[968.54 --> 971.54] Holy, holy, holy -[971.54 --> 976.54] Holy, holy -[976.54 --> 983.42] Though the darkness hide thee -[983.42 --> 990.28] Though the eye may flood my sin -[990.28 --> 996.42] Thy glory may not see -[996.42 --> 1003.30] Boldly thou art holy -[1003.30 --> 1010.30] There is none beside thee -[1010.30 --> 1016.30] Perfect in power -[1016.30 --> 1021.58] With love and purity -[1021.58 --> 1037.04] And there is 순x -[1037.04 --> 1043.44] That as we street -[1043.44 --> 1050.44] Lord, builder, or oversight of the mobile -[1050.44 --> 1052.44] for thee. -[1055.66 --> 1058.06] King of glory, -[1059.50 --> 1062.44] holy are you, Lord, -[1062.92 --> 1066.44] none beside thee. -[1068.10 --> 1072.76] Perfect in power, -[1072.76 --> 1079.08] my God forever. -[1080.44 --> 1088.44] You were and are and you will be, -[1089.46 --> 1093.56] my God before thee. -[1096.08 --> 1098.56] He of glory, -[1099.84 --> 1102.44] holy are you, Lord, -[1102.44 --> 1106.44] none beside thee. -[1106.44 --> 1112.44] Perfect in power, -[1114.44 --> 1119.56] my God forever. -[1119.56 --> 1129.56] Pure and are and you will be. -[1129.56 --> 1139.56] Holy, holy, holy, -[1139.56 --> 1145.56] Lord God almighty, -[1145.56 --> 1153.56] all thy works shall praise thy name, -[1153.56 --> 1159.56] in earth and sky and sea. -[1159.56 --> 1165.56] Holy, holy, holy, -[1165.56 --> 1171.56] merciful and mighty. -[1171.56 --> 1177.56] God is a person, -[1177.56 --> 1179.56] blessed in the earth. -[1179.56 --> 1183.56] Blessed Trinity, -[1183.56 --> 1187.56] I stand before thee. -[1187.56 --> 1189.56] Lord, holy, holy, -[1189.56 --> 1195.56] holy, holy are you, Lord, -[1195.56 --> 1197.56] none beside thee. -[1197.56 --> 1199.56] Lord, holy, holy are you, Lord, -[1199.56 --> 1203.56] holy are you, Lord, -[1203.56 --> 1205.56] and you will be, -[1205.56 --> 1207.56] my God forever. -[1207.56 --> 1209.56] Lord, holy are you, -[1209.56 --> 1214.56] my God forever. -[1214.56 --> 1216.56] Lord, holy are you, -[1216.56 --> 1220.56] Lord, holy are you, Lord, -[1220.56 --> 1222.56] who will be, -[1222.56 --> 1223.56] my God forever. -[1223.56 --> 1225.56] I stand before thee. -[1229.56 --> 1233.56] He of glory, holy are you, Lord, -[1233.56 --> 1235.56] holy are you, Lord, -[1235.56 --> 1237.56] none beside thee. -[1237.56 --> 1238.56] I stand before thee. -[1238.56 --> 1239.56] Lord, holy are you, Lord, -[1239.56 --> 1240.56] holy are you, Lord, -[1240.56 --> 1243.56] my God forever. -[1243.56 --> 1245.56] Who will be, my God forever. -[1245.56 --> 1250.56] And we will be, my God forever. -[1250.56 --> 1251.56] What do you have, my God forever? -[1251.56 --> 1252.56] You will be, my God forever. -[1252.56 --> 1254.56] Joy are you, Lord, -[1254.56 --> 1255.56] your God forever. -[1255.56 --> 1258.56] You are and are and you will be. -[1258.56 --> 1261.56] You will be. -[1261.56 --> 1262.56] Amen. -[1262.56 --> 1263.56] Amen. -[1263.56 --> 1265.56] Amen. -[1265.56 --> 1266.56] Amen. -[1266.56 --> 1276.22] You were and are and you will be. -[1296.56 --> 1316.82] Put a new song in my heart. -[1316.82 --> 1321.36] Let me hear the praises start. -[1321.36 --> 1327.86] Dispel the night and give me light again. -[1331.86 --> 1337.16] Put a new thought in my mind. -[1337.16 --> 1341.96] Help me leave the past behind. -[1342.22 --> 1348.38] And break these chains that I might live again. -[1351.36 --> 1357.86] Lift my fallen face and help me to stand. -[1357.86 --> 1362.86] Help me with the grace that comes from your hand. -[1362.86 --> 1365.86] Bend me from my sin. -[1365.86 --> 1368.86] Lord, forgive me again. -[1368.86 --> 1374.36] And I might be yours alone. -[1374.36 --> 1375.36] Put a new fire in my soul. -[1375.36 --> 1387.86] Put a new fire in my soul. -[1387.86 --> 1391.86] Make this world's miracle. -[1391.86 --> 1402.36] And help me see that I am free again. -[1402.36 --> 1408.36] Let these broken bones rise up and rejoice. -[1408.36 --> 1410.36] Bring the captive home. -[1410.36 --> 1413.86] And lift up my voice. -[1413.86 --> 1416.86] Help my spirit sing. -[1416.86 --> 1420.86] Now to Jesus my King. -[1420.86 --> 1424.36] Lord, He has forgiven me. -[1424.36 --> 1427.36] Lift my fallen face. -[1427.36 --> 1429.36] And help me to stand. -[1429.36 --> 1434.36] Love me with the grace that comes from your hand. -[1434.36 --> 1437.36] Cleanse me from my sin. -[1437.36 --> 1439.36] Lord, forgive me again. -[1439.36 --> 1455.86] That I might be yours alone. -[1455.86 --> 1457.86] You may have a seat. -[1457.86 --> 1470.82] Thank you for VIP -[1470.82 --> 1475.86] with the bond for human creation. -[1475.86 --> 1479.36] Thank you for listening to the Shれた Christifulci. -[1479.36 --> 1484.96] He is the heir of all things through whom all God made the universe. -[1485.42 --> 1491.36] Jesus is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, -[1492.26 --> 1495.00] sustaining all things by his powerful word. -[1495.00 --> 1499.84] And now we read that he has provided purification for sins. -[1500.72 --> 1504.44] This points to one of the main teachings in the book of Hebrews. -[1505.22 --> 1509.32] When humanity fell into sin, it tainted everything about us. -[1510.20 --> 1515.02] We are unable to do anything to make ourselves pure or clean again. -[1515.58 --> 1520.60] We need someone far greater than we are in order to be purified of our sin. -[1522.20 --> 1527.38] Having been washed and made pure in Christ, however, we are clean. -[1528.02 --> 1535.26] We do not need to be purified ever again as long as we believe that Jesus has done this already for us. -[1535.26 --> 1541.78] Having been washed and made pure, we are called to live as washed and purified people. -[1541.78 --> 1547.44] We are called to put our sin away and to live holy and pure lives. -[1549.14 --> 1553.22] Let's take a few moments this morning to confess our sins to Christ -[1553.22 --> 1559.28] and to thank him for purifying us through his blood in a moment of silent prayer. -[1559.28 --> 1559.42] Let's pray. -[1559.42 --> 1560.12] Let's pray. -[1560.12 --> 1560.16] Let's pray. -[1560.16 --> 1590.14] Thank you. -[1590.16 --> 1620.14] Thank you. -[1620.16 --> 1625.16] Turn our eyes from evil things. -[1626.34 --> 1630.26] Oh Lord, we cast down our idols. -[1631.06 --> 1634.08] Give us clean hands. -[1634.38 --> 1637.62] Give us pure hearts. -[1638.32 --> 1643.66] Let us not lift our souls to another. -[1643.66 --> 1647.76] Give us clean hands. -[1648.18 --> 1650.66] Give us pure hearts. -[1652.02 --> 1656.66] Let us not lift our souls to another. -[1656.66 --> 1667.12] Oh God, let us be a generation that seeks, that seeks your face. -[1667.12 --> 1670.52] Oh God of Jacob. -[1671.12 --> 1680.38] Oh God, let us be a generation that seeks, that seeks your face. -[1680.38 --> 1684.38] Oh God of Jacob. -[1684.38 --> 1686.38] Oh God of Jacob. -[1686.38 --> 1690.38] Oh God of Jacob. -[1690.38 --> 1692.38] We bow our hearts. -[1692.38 --> 1696.46] We bend our knees. -[1696.46 --> 1700.38] Oh Spirit, come make us a whole. -[1700.38 --> 1709.56] We turn our eyes from evil things. -[1709.56 --> 1713.56] Oh Lord, we cast down our idols. -[1713.56 --> 1715.56] Give us clean hands. -[1715.56 --> 1719.56] Give us pure hearts. -[1719.56 --> 1725.56] Let us not lift our souls to another. -[1725.56 --> 1726.56] Give us clean hands. -[1726.56 --> 1729.56] Give us clean hands. -[1729.56 --> 1732.56] Give us pure hearts. -[1732.56 --> 1734.56] Let us not lift our souls to another. -[1734.56 --> 1739.56] Let us not lift our souls to another. -[1739.56 --> 1748.56] Oh God, let us be a generation that seeks, that seeks your face. -[1748.56 --> 1751.56] Oh God of Jacob. -[1751.56 --> 1761.56] Oh God, let us be a generation that seeks, that seeks your face. -[1761.56 --> 1762.56] Oh God of Jacob. -[1762.56 --> 1763.56] Oh God of Jacob. -[1763.56 --> 1764.56] Oh God of Jacob. -[1764.56 --> 1766.56] Oh God of Jacob. -[1766.56 --> 1769.56] We bow our hearts. -[1769.56 --> 1774.56] We bend our knees. -[1774.56 --> 1783.56] Oh Spirit, come make us a whole. -[1783.56 --> 1788.56] Please stand and join us as we continue singing the song, The River. -[1788.56 --> 1789.56] We do believe in this forever. -[1789.56 --> 1798.56] Our way to when we feel ś -[1798.56 --> 1799.06] We stand and join us as we come, And come-in- west願 you, -[1799.06 --> 1803.56] And in this unf以及 song that shines-forwarded. -[1803.56 --> 1819.38] To that river I am going -[1819.38 --> 1825.44] Bringing sins I cannot bear -[1825.44 --> 1829.76] Come and cleanse me -[1829.76 --> 1832.86] God forgive me -[1832.86 --> 1838.72] Lord I need to meet you there -[1838.72 --> 1841.74] In these waters -[1841.74 --> 1844.68] Feeling mercy -[1844.68 --> 1847.80] Closed with freedom -[1847.80 --> 1849.94] From despair -[1849.94 --> 1854.06] I am going -[1854.06 --> 1857.48] To that river -[1857.48 --> 1862.84] Lord I need to meet you there -[1862.84 --> 1866.78] Precious Jesus -[1866.78 --> 1870.06] I am ready -[1870.06 --> 1875.72] To surrender every care -[1875.72 --> 1879.70] Take my hand now -[1879.70 --> 1882.70] Leave me closer -[1882.70 --> 1888.56] Lord I need to meet you there -[1888.56 --> 1896.08] Come and join us -[1896.08 --> 1898.56] In the river -[1898.56 --> 1903.54] Come find life beyond compare -[1903.54 --> 1907.48] He is calling -[1907.48 --> 1910.48] He is waiting -[1910.48 --> 1912.60] Jesus -[1912.60 --> 1918.46] Jesus loves to meet you there -[1918.46 --> 1918.54] Jesus loves to meet you there -[1918.54 --> 1920.04] He is calling -[1920.04 --> 1922.98] He is waiting -[1922.98 --> 1928.54] Jesus loves to meet you there -[1928.54 --> 1932.40] Precious Jesus -[1932.40 --> 1936.34] I am ready -[1936.34 --> 1937.34] I am ready -[1937.34 --> 1938.34] I am ready -[1938.34 --> 1938.62] To surrender -[1938.62 --> 1941.34] Every care -[1941.34 --> 1945.28] Take my hand now -[1945.28 --> 1948.28] Lead me closer -[1948.28 --> 1953.40] Lord I need to meet you there -[1953.40 --> 1957.28] Take my hand now -[1957.28 --> 1960.22] Lead me closer -[1960.22 --> 1966.22] Lord I need to meet you there -[1966.22 --> 1967.06] Lord I need to meet you there -[1967.06 --> 1988.08] Lord I need to meet you there -[1988.08 --> 1988.68] Jesus -[1988.68 --> 1988.72] My name is Allison -[1988.72 --> 1990.82] And I am one of the deacons here -[1990.82 --> 1991.64] At the church -[1991.64 --> 1993.08] This morning -[1993.08 --> 1994.40] The offering -[1994.40 --> 1996.12] That we are receiving -[1996.12 --> 1996.94] From you -[1996.94 --> 1998.02] Is for -[1998.02 --> 1999.36] Our own -[1999.36 --> 2001.12] Missions and ministries -[2001.12 --> 2001.88] Of the church -[2001.88 --> 2002.72] And also -[2002.72 --> 2004.26] A special offering -[2004.26 --> 2005.40] For Advocate -[2005.40 --> 2007.04] That is an organization -[2007.04 --> 2008.04] Local to us -[2008.04 --> 2009.72] Which helps -[2009.72 --> 2010.90] Women -[2010.90 --> 2011.88] Babies -[2011.88 --> 2012.42] Children -[2012.42 --> 2013.62] And teens -[2013.62 --> 2021.78] in our neighborhood in whatever whenever there's a time of need through their -[2021.78 --> 2027.78] through their mission and in activities so thank you for your support and there -[2027.78 --> 2032.52] are multiple ways to give check out our website for electronic ways or you can -[2032.52 --> 2039.58] get set up with the church just call the office to get set up there thank you -[2043.62 --> 2066.72] Jesus have my heart my will -[2066.72 --> 2072.72] my soul Jesus have my hopes my dreams -[2072.72 --> 2086.72] my love with joy I lay it down with joy I cast my crown Jesus have it all -[2086.72 --> 2108.72] to you I bring my praise my lips my song a living sacrifice as one before your life is now my own your will is what I want Jesus have it all -[2108.72 --> 2130.72] Jesus have it all Jesus have it all to you belongs the glory the praise of all the world Jesus have it all Jesus have it all -[2130.72 --> 2144.72] all blessing and all honor all majesty and all Jesus have it all -[2144.72 --> 2146.72] Jesus have it all -[2146.72 --> 2150.72] Jesus have your church your love your pride -[2150.72 --> 2152.72] Jesus have your church your love your pride -[2152.72 --> 2156.72] the joy of which you freely gave your life -[2156.72 --> 2160.72] radiant in white -[2160.72 --> 2162.72] washed and pure and bright -[2162.72 --> 2164.72] Jesus have it all -[2164.72 --> 2168.72] Jesus have your worth your due -[2168.72 --> 2174.72] Jesus have your worth your due -[2174.72 --> 2176.72] your sound -[2176.72 --> 2178.72] your sound -[2178.72 --> 2180.72] your sound -[2180.72 --> 2182.72] your praise of every nation -[2182.72 --> 2184.72] child and child -[2184.72 --> 2186.72] and child -[2186.72 --> 2188.72] with all that has been paid -[2188.72 --> 2190.72] glorify your name -[2190.72 --> 2192.72] Jesus have it all -[2192.72 --> 2198.72] Jesus have it all -[2198.72 --> 2200.72] Jesus have it all -[2200.72 --> 2202.72] Jesus have it all -[2202.72 --> 2203.72] Jesus have it all -[2203.72 --> 2205.72] Jesus have it all -[2205.72 --> 2206.72] Jesus have it all -[2206.72 --> 2209.72] Jesus have it all -[2209.72 --> 2210.72] Jesus have it all -[2210.72 --> 2212.72] Jesus have it all -[2212.72 --> 2213.72] Jesus have it all -[2213.72 --> 2217.72] Jesus have it all -[2217.72 --> 2218.72] Jesus have it all -[2218.72 --> 2221.72] Jesus have it all -[2221.72 --> 2235.16] have it all jesus have it all to you belongs the glory the praise of all the world jesus have it all -[2236.36 --> 2246.36] jesus have it all a blessing and all honor a majesty and all jesus -[2251.72 --> 2261.72] jesus have it all -[2264.04 --> 2265.72] jesus have it all -[2281.72 --> 2287.72] all my days all my life -[2288.52 --> 2291.72] have it all -[2294.44 --> 2299.72] all my days all my life -[2300.52 --> 2303.72] have it all -[2303.72 --> 2311.72] all my days all my life -[2312.76 --> 2315.72] have it all -[2319.08 --> 2323.72] all my days all my life -[2325.72 --> 2327.72] have it all -[2333.72 --> 2347.56] good morning everybody can i have everybody from the ages of three all the way up to grade four -[2347.56 --> 2357.72] come on up to the front today -[2357.72 --> 2364.60] good morning how's everybody doing this morning -[2366.20 --> 2369.24] good i have a question for you think in your head -[2370.20 --> 2373.32] who is the greatest person you've ever met -[2376.44 --> 2382.12] awesome is there any other person yes that's the ultimate answer but is there any other person -[2382.12 --> 2385.32] and why why do you say mommy -[2388.44 --> 2391.56] because i help you with stuff great answer malachi -[2393.32 --> 2397.48] anybody else is there anybody else who's the greatest person you've met yeah -[2399.88 --> 2405.48] yeah jesus so we're going to go back into children's worship time and we're going to talk about people -[2406.12 --> 2412.04] that we have met and what kind of characteristics that they have to build a community but yes we are -[2412.04 --> 2414.28] also going to talk about how jesus -[2415.32 --> 2419.32] is in control of everything even when we have to make hard choices -[2419.88 --> 2421.32] so can everybody stand up -[2424.28 --> 2425.80] yeah look at the congregation -[2427.96 --> 2429.72] ready one two three -[2430.44 --> 2432.44] the Lord is with you -[2432.44 --> 2436.44] and also with you -[2442.04 --> 2449.40] am -[2449.72 --> 2451.80] okay -[2452.60 --> 2453.00] all right -[2453.32 --> 2453.80] just -[2453.80 --> 2454.60] now -[2465.16 --> 2465.72] of -[2465.72 --> 2495.70] Thank you. -[2495.72 --> 2496.76] Let's go to our Lord in prayer. -[2499.76 --> 2512.18] Our Father in heaven, it is with thanksgiving in our hearts that you have gathered us together in your house to worship you in freedom, to give you praise through our songs and meditations and to hear your word proclaimed. -[2512.18 --> 2533.60] Along with the psalmist, we proclaim, it is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to your name, O Mosai, to declare your loving kindness in the morning, your faithfulness every night on an instrument of ten strings on the lute and on the harp with harmonious sound. -[2533.60 --> 2537.72] For you, Lord, have made me glad through your work. -[2538.60 --> 2541.24] I will triumph in the works of your hands. -[2542.48 --> 2545.78] Yet, Lord, we confess that we have not followed in your commandments. -[2546.50 --> 2548.34] We have not lived according to your word. -[2549.72 --> 2550.58] Forgive us, Lord. -[2551.06 --> 2552.56] Renew your spirit within us. -[2552.78 --> 2553.90] Give us godly wisdom. -[2555.10 --> 2556.56] Teach us to trust in you. -[2557.28 --> 2560.14] Help us to honor you in all that we do. -[2560.14 --> 2566.48] Lord, we lift up to you members of our church family who are living with health concerns. -[2568.02 --> 2574.40] Please be with our sister, Lena Chekema, as her health is failing and the family is looking for care for her. -[2575.36 --> 2578.22] We know she's in your hands, Lord. -[2578.72 --> 2581.16] Provide for Wes, Lena, and her children. -[2582.12 --> 2584.58] A loving place where Lena can receive support. -[2585.06 --> 2589.34] Be with the family, especially now, as they face uncertainty in Lena's health. -[2590.14 --> 2595.22] Father, many in our family are dealing with cancer. -[2596.02 --> 2601.32] We pray for John Van Burdrake as he begins treatment and ask for complete healing. -[2601.32 --> 2607.60] We pray for Jerry Jansen's daughter, Tessa, as she is undergoing tests for cancer. -[2608.60 --> 2610.48] We pray for a good prognosis. -[2611.62 --> 2620.64] We pray for Elise Wackenauer's father, Doug, and Class Tessemaker's daughter, Tanya, as they both struggle with stage 4 cancer. -[2621.48 --> 2623.94] Lord, you are in control in all these situations. -[2623.94 --> 2630.36] Help these families to put their trust and their hope in you and give them your peace. -[2631.36 --> 2634.90] Give John, Tessa, Doug, and Tanya courage. -[2635.74 --> 2637.70] The ability to endure treatment. -[2638.38 --> 2639.98] Your presence when they feel alone. -[2640.86 --> 2643.94] Love and support of family and healing by your will. -[2643.94 --> 2649.94] Be with those dealing with physical limitations, loneliness, anxiety. -[2650.42 --> 2652.26] Lift them up by your spirit. -[2653.28 --> 2654.64] Relieve sadness and worry. -[2655.84 --> 2664.66] As we anticipate your word, grant to Pastor Chris your spirit that your truth may find open hearts and open minds. -[2664.66 --> 2675.92] And Lord Jesus, as we strive to imitate you on this earth, equip us with your spirit so that your light will continue to shine at Emmanuel in our homes and in this community. -[2676.88 --> 2678.64] Our souls wait for you, Lord. -[2679.00 --> 2680.62] You are our help and our shield. -[2680.94 --> 2685.94] Our hearts shall rejoice in you because we have trusted in your holy name. -[2686.94 --> 2691.34] Let your mercy, O Lord, be upon us just as we hope in you. -[2691.96 --> 2693.74] In Jesus' name, amen. -[2694.66 --> 2695.66] Amen. -[2713.80 --> 2720.22] This morning we're going to continue in our preaching series here at Emmanuel. -[2720.22 --> 2732.40] Emmanuel, we have been in the book of Thessalonians, the first letter that the Apostle Paul wrote to the church of Thessalonica. -[2733.96 --> 2738.48] We're living in this book for a while and then we'll move into the second letter as well. -[2738.64 --> 2742.18] Today we're going to read from 1 Thessalonians 4. -[2742.36 --> 2744.64] We're going to read verses 1 through 8. -[2744.64 --> 2752.72] So I encourage you, if you have a Bible, to open it up and to keep that open as we go through the message because we'll be referring back. -[2753.04 --> 2757.40] If you're looking for a Bible, there's a couple in the ladder shelves at the back there. -[2757.52 --> 2759.86] You can grab one and follow along. -[2760.40 --> 2765.10] Or you can turn your device on and get your Bible app open and read along there. -[2765.10 --> 2777.20] Before we dive in, or as we start, let's do so by reading together from God's Word to us in 1 Thessalonians 4. -[2777.20 --> 2791.28] As for other matters, brothers and sisters, we instructed you how to live in order to please God as, in fact, you are living. -[2792.40 --> 2797.32] Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more, -[2797.32 --> 2802.66] for you know what instructions we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus. -[2802.66 --> 2811.54] It is God's will that you should be sanctified, that you should avoid sexual immorality, -[2811.54 --> 2816.86] that each of you should learn to control your body in a way that is holy and honorable, -[2817.40 --> 2820.76] not in passionate lusts like the pagans who do not know God, -[2821.44 --> 2826.90] and that in this matter no one should wrong or take advantage of a brother or sister. -[2826.90 --> 2833.76] The Lord will punish all those who commit such sins as we told you and warned you before. -[2834.76 --> 2839.28] For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life. -[2840.08 --> 2845.50] Therefore, anyone who rejects this instruction does not reject a human being, -[2845.64 --> 2850.58] but God, the very God who gives you his Holy Spirit. -[2851.18 --> 2852.56] This is the word of the Lord. -[2856.90 --> 2868.00] One of the repeated themes that has kind of come to the surface from sociologists -[2868.00 --> 2874.12] who look at the modern state of Christianity in the West -[2874.12 --> 2880.62] is this idea that's been commonly called the rise of the nuns. -[2880.62 --> 2887.00] And so the nuns are not the Roman Catholic church order of women who wear habits -[2887.00 --> 2892.20] and devote themselves to the Lord, but nuns as in N-O-N-E-S. -[2892.68 --> 2896.68] That is people who on the demographic surveys that they get to fill out -[2896.68 --> 2900.12] where it says, what is your religion, they check the box, none. -[2900.90 --> 2902.66] They have no religion. -[2902.66 --> 2908.24] This demographic in the West in the last number of years -[2908.24 --> 2914.00] has increased at an exponential and, for many people, alarming rate. -[2914.00 --> 2922.42] When you dive into those statistics and people like Kinnaman and the Barna Group -[2922.42 --> 2931.06] or Bibby in Canada and looking at hemorrhaging faith or transforming faith studies, -[2931.62 --> 2937.12] when you look into these numbers, one of the reasons given for this shift -[2937.12 --> 2942.22] is people who, even though they may have grown up in a church community, -[2942.38 --> 2946.64] they may have grown up in a faith community, but no longer professed that faith, -[2946.70 --> 2949.92] is because they looked around and they asked themselves, -[2950.34 --> 2951.64] what difference is this making? -[2953.48 --> 2958.64] And they didn't see any change in the people who professed to be Christian in their lives. -[2959.08 --> 2963.76] They didn't see it making any difference concretely in the way they behaved in the world, -[2963.76 --> 2965.56] in the way they thought about the world, -[2965.56 --> 2969.04] and in the way they talked about things going on in the world. -[2970.36 --> 2972.80] What difference does it make? -[2973.92 --> 2976.24] This is a really important question for us -[2976.24 --> 2980.34] as we are digging into the lives and stories of faith -[2980.34 --> 2983.86] that Paul talks about here in the church in Thessalonica. -[2984.54 --> 2986.70] What difference does it make? -[2988.50 --> 2991.82] It won't surprise you, I think, to learn -[2991.82 --> 2997.74] that this makes a world, literally, a world of difference. -[2998.66 --> 3002.06] The sort of theme that I want to operate under this morning -[3002.06 --> 3005.44] is the idea that God has sanctified you, -[3005.96 --> 3007.68] and I'll define that term in a little bit, -[3008.40 --> 3011.98] and so live as one set apart. -[3012.66 --> 3014.90] Live as one sanctified. -[3014.90 --> 3021.08] Paul, he opens this section, -[3021.28 --> 3023.04] and he continues this section -[3023.04 --> 3026.76] using the same kind of language that he has been throughout. -[3026.88 --> 3029.00] If you've been with us in this series, -[3029.24 --> 3032.30] you know that Paul has been really encouraged -[3032.30 --> 3036.56] by the reception of the gospel -[3036.56 --> 3040.22] and the lives of faith for these people in Thessalonica. -[3040.22 --> 3044.30] And his letter really is a celebration -[3044.30 --> 3047.88] of that good reception of faith. -[3048.32 --> 3051.08] And he grounds his encouragement in this part -[3051.08 --> 3054.14] in what he sees this church already doing. -[3054.88 --> 3057.18] Maybe you noticed in verse 1. -[3058.06 --> 3058.34] He writes, -[3058.46 --> 3061.52] As for other matters, brothers and sisters, -[3061.76 --> 3064.98] we instructed you how to live in order to please God -[3064.98 --> 3068.18] as, in fact, you are doing. -[3068.18 --> 3071.48] As, in fact, you are doing. -[3071.58 --> 3074.20] We told you how, and you're doing it. -[3074.76 --> 3076.64] We asked, and you answered. -[3077.84 --> 3081.20] Now, one of the reasons why I find Thessalonians -[3081.20 --> 3083.62] so compelling and so beautiful -[3083.62 --> 3087.48] is that Paul is so obviously excited -[3087.48 --> 3091.04] about what God is doing in and through this church, -[3091.18 --> 3093.08] what God is doing in their midst, -[3093.20 --> 3095.58] and he celebrates that with them. -[3098.18 --> 3103.26] Now, I think we can apply that same frame -[3103.26 --> 3105.32] of celebration and encouragement -[3105.32 --> 3108.22] in our midst here as well. -[3109.24 --> 3112.44] I really believe that God is continuing -[3112.44 --> 3114.70] to do something in our midst, -[3114.82 --> 3117.06] and it's really exciting to see it. -[3118.24 --> 3120.58] People are asking hard questions of faith. -[3121.38 --> 3123.00] People are coming to new faith. -[3123.00 --> 3125.54] People are digging deeper in their faith, -[3125.76 --> 3127.56] in and through all the various things -[3127.56 --> 3130.08] and relationships that are circling around here. -[3130.94 --> 3132.60] Lives are being shared. -[3132.88 --> 3134.44] Burdens are being shared. -[3135.58 --> 3137.66] Suffering is being entered into, -[3137.92 --> 3140.70] and people don't have to struggle in isolation. -[3141.70 --> 3143.82] One of the ways you see that is meals are being made. -[3144.58 --> 3146.40] Dinner tables are being opened up. -[3146.54 --> 3149.32] Homes are being opened up for people to come into, -[3149.32 --> 3151.02] even strangers. -[3152.74 --> 3154.76] We heard from our deacons earlier, right? -[3154.84 --> 3156.38] Our deacons, if you don't know, -[3156.88 --> 3159.62] our deacons are paying rent for some people. -[3160.14 --> 3161.08] They're buying groceries. -[3161.36 --> 3163.64] They're offsetting the cost of counseling. -[3164.04 --> 3166.94] They're helping people with rides to and from church, -[3166.98 --> 3168.40] but also from different appointments -[3168.40 --> 3170.20] and the like in their lives. -[3171.24 --> 3173.40] Young adults with the work of Josh -[3173.40 --> 3176.16] and others are studying the Bible together. -[3176.78 --> 3179.48] They're being trained as missionaries, right? -[3179.52 --> 3180.84] They're helping each other move. -[3182.02 --> 3183.42] Youth with Pastor Kevin -[3183.42 --> 3185.80] are asking hard questions of faith, -[3185.88 --> 3187.22] and in asking those questions, -[3187.50 --> 3189.82] are really wrestling with and submitting to -[3189.82 --> 3191.46] what the Word of God says. -[3192.30 --> 3195.18] Mentors are walking with youth through life struggles, -[3195.52 --> 3197.14] and there's a group among us -[3197.14 --> 3200.12] who's getting ready to go to Mexico for 10 days, -[3200.12 --> 3204.60] and that's actually just on the surface, right? -[3204.62 --> 3205.74] When you dig deeper into it, -[3205.76 --> 3207.40] there's so much going on here. -[3207.82 --> 3210.54] I really believe that God is at work here, -[3210.64 --> 3212.64] and I hope that you can see it too, -[3212.82 --> 3215.24] and I hope that you want to be part of it, -[3215.24 --> 3220.98] and that's what Paul is continuing to urge the church -[3220.98 --> 3223.52] in this letter towards, right? -[3223.52 --> 3227.52] To be part of God's continued work among them. -[3227.52 --> 3230.32] You're doing it, he says, -[3230.98 --> 3232.36] and now keep doing it. -[3233.06 --> 3235.22] You've listened and are living. -[3235.84 --> 3237.40] Now do it more and more. -[3239.88 --> 3243.06] Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord, -[3243.24 --> 3245.24] do this more and more. -[3245.74 --> 3247.14] Don't stop growing. -[3247.32 --> 3248.90] Don't stop being transformed. -[3249.32 --> 3249.98] Don't stop. -[3250.12 --> 3250.70] Don't settle. -[3250.86 --> 3251.66] Don't get comfortable. -[3251.86 --> 3252.60] Don't get lazy. -[3253.00 --> 3253.76] Don't be idle. -[3254.12 --> 3255.04] Keep growing. -[3255.72 --> 3257.22] Keep wrestling out obedience. -[3257.22 --> 3259.52] Keep submitting your life to God. -[3261.44 --> 3262.82] Because it's easy to think, -[3263.26 --> 3265.22] I'm doing enough. -[3266.40 --> 3267.56] It's easy to think, -[3267.66 --> 3268.82] I'm obedient enough. -[3268.90 --> 3269.78] I'm good enough. -[3270.04 --> 3271.54] And let me be really, really clear. -[3273.20 --> 3275.06] This is especially true -[3275.06 --> 3277.36] if you are a Christian. -[3279.54 --> 3280.84] Because if you're not a Christian, -[3281.14 --> 3282.12] you probably don't care. -[3282.12 --> 3284.22] But if you are, -[3284.78 --> 3287.48] and perhaps even more so, -[3287.56 --> 3289.12] if you are a mature Christian, -[3289.96 --> 3291.30] this is for you. -[3293.04 --> 3294.32] Because I know I do this, right? -[3294.40 --> 3295.70] You look at your life, -[3296.40 --> 3298.26] and you look at it before God, -[3298.34 --> 3300.26] or before you took God seriously, -[3300.56 --> 3302.70] and you compare that to your life now, -[3302.90 --> 3304.88] and that transformation is incredible, -[3305.18 --> 3305.58] Lord willing. -[3305.58 --> 3309.12] For instance, -[3309.22 --> 3310.42] I look back on my own life, -[3311.64 --> 3316.06] and I see all sorts of patterns of behavior, -[3316.26 --> 3317.20] of binge drinking, -[3317.38 --> 3318.70] and recreational drug use, -[3318.80 --> 3319.88] of addictive behaviors, -[3320.60 --> 3320.88] of womanizing, -[3320.88 --> 3322.82] and so much more. -[3323.38 --> 3325.12] And underneath all of that, -[3325.18 --> 3325.88] I see selfishness, -[3326.56 --> 3327.24] and apathy, -[3327.58 --> 3328.68] I see sloth, -[3328.76 --> 3329.86] and I see pride. -[3330.42 --> 3331.56] So much pride. -[3333.68 --> 3334.56] But now, -[3335.20 --> 3335.94] praise Jesus, -[3336.14 --> 3337.08] I look at my life, -[3337.22 --> 3339.40] and those things that once defined me, -[3339.82 --> 3342.88] those things that I had once been bound to as a slave, -[3343.24 --> 3345.10] none of that is part of my life. -[3345.24 --> 3347.48] And God has grown in me -[3347.48 --> 3350.22] a deep love and heart to care. -[3351.14 --> 3353.18] And I take the words of Jesus seriously -[3353.18 --> 3355.72] when he says that I want to serve, -[3355.72 --> 3356.92] and not be served. -[3356.92 --> 3359.36] But now, -[3360.48 --> 3361.14] candidly, -[3361.80 --> 3362.46] and honestly, -[3363.36 --> 3365.74] the more clearly -[3365.74 --> 3369.16] you see that kind of transformation in your life, -[3369.90 --> 3371.90] the more easily -[3371.90 --> 3375.14] we can convince ourselves that it's enough. -[3377.34 --> 3379.24] The more easily we can say something like, -[3379.32 --> 3381.04] oh, I've already changed so much, -[3381.56 --> 3382.82] I don't have to worry about that. -[3382.82 --> 3385.80] We can say things like, -[3385.90 --> 3387.36] I'll never be perfect, -[3387.94 --> 3389.00] so, you know, -[3389.08 --> 3389.84] this thing here, -[3389.92 --> 3391.68] that's not really affecting other people, -[3391.94 --> 3393.14] I'm just going to leave that be. -[3395.58 --> 3396.94] We get really good -[3396.94 --> 3398.48] at convincing ourselves -[3398.48 --> 3400.48] that a little bit of compromise -[3400.48 --> 3401.44] is okay. -[3404.74 --> 3405.54] And you know what? -[3405.54 --> 3408.32] If it was just me -[3408.32 --> 3409.38] standing here in front of you -[3409.38 --> 3410.12] asking that, -[3411.56 --> 3413.18] you could settle for something less. -[3414.34 --> 3414.72] Honestly, -[3414.84 --> 3416.00] if it was just Paul -[3416.00 --> 3417.04] asking you, -[3417.48 --> 3418.86] he would probably understand. -[3420.12 --> 3421.08] But it's not. -[3422.08 --> 3423.24] Look with me at verse 2. -[3424.54 --> 3425.42] For you know -[3425.42 --> 3426.30] what instructions -[3426.30 --> 3427.22] we gave you -[3427.22 --> 3428.46] by the authority -[3428.46 --> 3430.46] of the Lord Jesus. -[3430.46 --> 3432.28] It is God's will -[3432.28 --> 3433.68] that you should be sanctified. -[3433.68 --> 3433.76] God. -[3436.08 --> 3437.72] Jesus is asking. -[3438.68 --> 3440.00] Jesus is revealing -[3440.00 --> 3441.08] God's will. -[3441.92 --> 3443.04] And that's the thing, right? -[3443.12 --> 3444.22] Jesus is asking -[3444.22 --> 3445.22] and urging -[3445.22 --> 3446.56] and telling us -[3446.56 --> 3447.56] the call -[3447.56 --> 3448.68] to live more -[3448.68 --> 3449.56] and more -[3449.56 --> 3451.44] into this way of being. -[3452.46 --> 3452.78] Right? -[3452.82 --> 3454.16] This isn't my call to you. -[3455.48 --> 3455.68] Right? -[3455.68 --> 3456.64] I would want to compromise. -[3458.90 --> 3460.38] The call is God's. -[3460.38 --> 3463.86] God's word says to us -[3463.86 --> 3465.94] take every thought captive -[3465.94 --> 3467.62] to make it obedient to Christ. -[3468.56 --> 3468.66] Right? -[3468.74 --> 3469.32] Jesus says -[3469.32 --> 3470.00] be perfect -[3470.00 --> 3471.22] as your heavenly father -[3471.22 --> 3472.00] is perfect. -[3473.00 --> 3474.08] Or we read in Romans -[3474.08 --> 3475.06] by the spirit -[3475.06 --> 3475.92] put to death -[3475.92 --> 3477.34] the deeds of the flesh. -[3477.88 --> 3479.24] This is life. -[3480.16 --> 3481.06] Now as you hear these words -[3481.06 --> 3481.68] as you see them -[3481.68 --> 3482.32] there on the screen -[3482.32 --> 3483.42] put to death. -[3483.90 --> 3484.76] Be perfect. -[3484.76 --> 3486.58] Take every thought captive. -[3487.52 --> 3489.06] These aren't half measures. -[3490.38 --> 3490.70] Right? -[3490.78 --> 3493.00] You can't kinda kill sin. -[3494.36 --> 3495.34] It's either dead or it's not. -[3496.58 --> 3498.32] Perfect is perfect. -[3498.66 --> 3499.44] There's no less. -[3500.04 --> 3501.16] Or it's not perfect. -[3501.94 --> 3502.08] Right? -[3502.22 --> 3503.96] Every must mean every -[3503.96 --> 3504.92] or it's not. -[3506.98 --> 3507.54] Instead -[3507.54 --> 3508.60] right -[3508.60 --> 3509.16] we read -[3509.16 --> 3510.52] it's God's will -[3510.52 --> 3512.36] that you should be sanctified. -[3513.74 --> 3515.12] This is God's will -[3515.12 --> 3515.86] for us. -[3516.80 --> 3517.76] And so that word -[3517.76 --> 3518.84] sanctified -[3518.84 --> 3519.84] sanctified -[3519.84 --> 3520.74] I suggest to you -[3520.74 --> 3522.40] is really important -[3522.40 --> 3524.20] for understanding -[3524.20 --> 3525.18] the call -[3525.18 --> 3526.06] in this text. -[3528.46 --> 3529.58] Now that word -[3529.58 --> 3530.52] sanctified -[3530.52 --> 3532.28] comes from -[3532.28 --> 3533.66] a Greek word -[3533.66 --> 3535.22] that's in the holiness -[3535.22 --> 3536.46] group of words -[3536.46 --> 3537.18] in this text -[3537.18 --> 3537.76] it's -[3537.76 --> 3538.86] hagiosmos -[3538.86 --> 3539.96] but hagios -[3539.96 --> 3541.20] is the word -[3541.20 --> 3542.20] that's used there. -[3542.60 --> 3543.64] It means holy. -[3543.64 --> 3546.56] Maybe you are familiar -[3546.56 --> 3547.16] with the word -[3547.16 --> 3548.06] hagiography -[3548.06 --> 3548.74] that's the -[3548.74 --> 3549.74] story of -[3549.74 --> 3550.26] or the making -[3550.26 --> 3550.90] of saints. -[3551.66 --> 3551.76] Right? -[3551.92 --> 3552.42] Hagios -[3552.42 --> 3553.74] is the connection there. -[3554.76 --> 3555.68] Depending on your -[3555.68 --> 3556.60] Bible translation -[3556.60 --> 3558.20] what you read there -[3558.20 --> 3559.42] might say something like -[3559.42 --> 3560.74] that you become holy -[3560.74 --> 3561.68] or that you should -[3561.68 --> 3562.54] be sanctified -[3562.54 --> 3564.36] or this is God's will -[3564.36 --> 3564.88] for you -[3564.88 --> 3565.96] your sanctification. -[3567.00 --> 3567.08] Right? -[3567.10 --> 3568.22] The word holy -[3568.22 --> 3568.64] means -[3569.16 --> 3570.28] to be set apart. -[3570.50 --> 3570.96] It means -[3570.96 --> 3572.20] to be consecrated -[3572.20 --> 3574.00] for a divine purpose. -[3578.24 --> 3578.80] Okay. -[3579.70 --> 3580.48] So for -[3580.48 --> 3581.60] just a minute -[3581.60 --> 3582.90] or five -[3582.90 --> 3584.04] we're going to do -[3584.04 --> 3584.50] a little bit of -[3584.50 --> 3585.28] doctrine work -[3585.28 --> 3585.96] because it lays -[3585.96 --> 3586.68] the foundation -[3586.68 --> 3587.90] for us here. -[3589.60 --> 3590.42] And so -[3590.42 --> 3591.88] first -[3591.88 --> 3592.64] let's clarify -[3592.64 --> 3593.62] some terms. -[3594.56 --> 3595.58] As we talk -[3595.58 --> 3596.44] about salvation -[3596.44 --> 3597.20] as we read -[3597.20 --> 3597.96] about salvation -[3597.96 --> 3599.14] in the Bible -[3599.14 --> 3600.26] there are two -[3600.26 --> 3601.32] important terms -[3601.32 --> 3602.06] that are used -[3602.06 --> 3602.44] there -[3602.44 --> 3603.38] and those terms -[3603.38 --> 3604.26] are justification -[3604.26 --> 3606.62] and sanctification. -[3608.42 --> 3608.64] Now -[3608.64 --> 3609.40] justification -[3609.40 --> 3611.04] is the word -[3611.04 --> 3611.80] that's used -[3611.80 --> 3613.30] to talk about -[3613.30 --> 3614.08] the legal -[3614.08 --> 3614.94] declaration -[3614.94 --> 3616.08] of my -[3616.08 --> 3616.88] redemption -[3616.88 --> 3618.30] of my salvation -[3618.30 --> 3619.98] based on -[3619.98 --> 3620.44] the -[3620.44 --> 3621.86] vicarious -[3621.86 --> 3622.70] satisfaction -[3622.70 --> 3624.20] of Jesus Christ. -[3625.34 --> 3625.72] And so -[3625.72 --> 3626.66] as we say -[3626.66 --> 3627.52] regularly here -[3627.52 --> 3628.48] because Jesus -[3628.48 --> 3629.40] lived the life -[3629.40 --> 3630.02] I should have -[3630.02 --> 3630.34] lived -[3630.34 --> 3631.20] and died -[3631.20 --> 3631.70] the death -[3631.70 --> 3632.08] that I -[3632.08 --> 3632.58] deserved -[3632.58 --> 3633.70] I am -[3633.70 --> 3634.44] justified -[3634.44 --> 3635.80] before God -[3635.80 --> 3636.54] by grace -[3636.54 --> 3637.50] through faith. -[3637.60 --> 3638.18] That's the thing -[3638.18 --> 3638.98] about justification -[3638.98 --> 3639.52] right? -[3639.58 --> 3640.48] It comes by grace -[3640.48 --> 3640.84] alone -[3640.84 --> 3641.58] through faith -[3641.58 --> 3641.94] alone -[3641.94 --> 3642.68] in Christ -[3642.68 --> 3643.06] alone. -[3644.80 --> 3645.48] Justification -[3645.48 --> 3646.44] changes -[3646.44 --> 3648.84] your status -[3648.84 --> 3650.42] your reality -[3650.42 --> 3651.76] before God. -[3652.24 --> 3653.00] It moves us -[3653.00 --> 3653.62] from what the Bible -[3653.62 --> 3655.02] calls by nature -[3655.02 --> 3656.04] objects of wrath -[3656.04 --> 3657.26] to being lavishly -[3657.26 --> 3658.10] loved children -[3658.10 --> 3659.24] of God. -[3661.44 --> 3662.04] Sanctification -[3662.04 --> 3663.54] is the word -[3663.54 --> 3664.44] that comes -[3664.44 --> 3665.42] almost immediately -[3665.42 --> 3666.14] on the heels -[3666.14 --> 3666.96] of justification -[3666.96 --> 3668.44] and sanctification -[3668.44 --> 3669.72] really is the -[3669.72 --> 3670.42] application -[3670.42 --> 3671.88] of the -[3671.88 --> 3672.50] declaration. -[3673.82 --> 3673.94] Right? -[3673.98 --> 3674.46] It's the being -[3674.46 --> 3675.54] moved from here -[3675.54 --> 3676.40] to here -[3676.40 --> 3677.24] because of the -[3677.24 --> 3677.68] decree. -[3678.74 --> 3679.24] Now also -[3679.24 --> 3680.02] let me hear this -[3680.02 --> 3680.64] very clearly -[3680.64 --> 3681.60] sanctification -[3681.60 --> 3683.04] is also -[3683.04 --> 3684.10] an act -[3684.10 --> 3684.84] of God's -[3684.84 --> 3685.30] grace -[3685.30 --> 3686.40] that moves -[3686.40 --> 3686.72] us -[3686.72 --> 3687.56] to cooperate -[3687.56 --> 3688.40] with what -[3688.40 --> 3689.04] God is doing -[3689.04 --> 3689.80] in the world. -[3692.06 --> 3693.66] Now popularly -[3693.66 --> 3695.78] people think -[3695.78 --> 3696.88] about sanctification -[3696.88 --> 3698.16] kind of in -[3698.16 --> 3699.04] two dimensions. -[3699.86 --> 3699.98] Right? -[3700.04 --> 3700.52] The idea is -[3700.52 --> 3701.30] this is where -[3701.30 --> 3701.84] you start -[3701.84 --> 3703.30] and this is -[3703.30 --> 3703.58] where you're -[3703.58 --> 3703.92] going. -[3705.24 --> 3706.72] But biblically -[3706.72 --> 3708.30] sanctification -[3708.30 --> 3709.92] has a more -[3709.92 --> 3710.98] three-dimensional -[3710.98 --> 3711.96] picture. -[3711.96 --> 3713.74] sanctification -[3713.74 --> 3714.76] as we survey -[3714.76 --> 3715.34] the whole -[3715.34 --> 3715.94] of the New -[3715.94 --> 3716.38] Testament -[3716.38 --> 3717.84] comes with -[3717.84 --> 3718.54] what some -[3718.54 --> 3718.92] people have -[3718.92 --> 3719.16] called -[3719.16 --> 3720.10] positional -[3720.10 --> 3721.36] or definitional -[3721.36 --> 3723.38] realities -[3723.38 --> 3725.14] and progressive -[3725.14 --> 3725.94] that is the -[3725.94 --> 3726.48] moving and -[3726.48 --> 3727.04] growing in -[3727.04 --> 3727.62] realities -[3727.62 --> 3729.02] and perfected -[3729.02 --> 3730.16] realities. -[3731.42 --> 3732.10] Positional -[3732.10 --> 3732.82] progressive -[3732.82 --> 3733.98] and perfected -[3733.98 --> 3735.40] these have -[3735.40 --> 3735.68] sort of -[3735.68 --> 3736.20] past -[3736.20 --> 3736.96] present -[3736.96 --> 3737.78] and future -[3737.78 --> 3738.40] aspects -[3738.40 --> 3739.32] to them -[3739.32 --> 3740.88] and actually -[3740.88 --> 3741.86] all three -[3741.86 --> 3742.86] uses of -[3742.86 --> 3743.26] the word -[3743.26 --> 3744.02] sanctification -[3744.02 --> 3744.72] show up -[3744.72 --> 3744.98] in the -[3744.98 --> 3745.28] book of -[3745.28 --> 3745.96] Thessalonians. -[3747.36 --> 3747.62] And so -[3747.62 --> 3748.10] let me do -[3748.10 --> 3748.56] this survey -[3748.56 --> 3748.88] with you -[3748.88 --> 3749.38] really quick. -[3750.90 --> 3751.38] Positional -[3751.38 --> 3752.32] sanctification -[3752.32 --> 3753.94] shows up -[3753.94 --> 3755.24] in 2 Thessalonians -[3755.24 --> 3756.36] 2 verse 13 -[3756.36 --> 3757.42] where we read -[3757.42 --> 3786.40] that is what -[3786.40 --> 3786.88] some of you -[3786.88 --> 3787.18] were -[3787.18 --> 3787.90] but you -[3787.90 --> 3788.68] were washed -[3788.68 --> 3789.20] you were -[3789.20 --> 3789.90] sanctified -[3789.90 --> 3790.34] you were -[3790.34 --> 3790.88] justified -[3790.88 --> 3792.02] in the name -[3792.02 --> 3792.52] of the Lord -[3792.52 --> 3793.32] Jesus Christ -[3793.32 --> 3794.14] and by the -[3794.14 --> 3794.54] Spirit of -[3794.54 --> 3794.96] our God. -[3795.14 --> 3795.68] There you see -[3795.68 --> 3796.18] those close -[3796.18 --> 3796.62] connection -[3796.62 --> 3797.00] of those -[3797.00 --> 3797.56] two terms. -[3799.40 --> 3800.20] Then we have -[3800.20 --> 3800.78] progressive -[3800.78 --> 3802.24] sanctification -[3802.24 --> 3803.06] this shows up -[3803.06 --> 3804.18] in 1 Thessalonians -[3804.18 --> 3804.78] 4 3 -[3804.78 --> 3805.80] our text -[3805.80 --> 3806.86] where we read -[3806.86 --> 3807.48] it's God's -[3807.48 --> 3808.22] will that you -[3808.22 --> 3808.78] should be -[3808.78 --> 3809.38] sanctified -[3809.38 --> 3809.78] that you -[3809.78 --> 3810.40] should avoid -[3810.40 --> 3811.04] sexual -[3811.04 --> 3811.92] immorality -[3811.92 --> 3812.24] that you -[3812.24 --> 3812.62] should be -[3812.62 --> 3813.54] growing -[3813.54 --> 3814.64] in what -[3814.64 --> 3815.28] your obedience -[3815.28 --> 3815.92] to God -[3815.92 --> 3816.80] looks like. -[3818.04 --> 3818.74] And then -[3818.74 --> 3819.40] thirdly -[3819.40 --> 3820.12] we have -[3820.12 --> 3821.48] perfected -[3821.48 --> 3822.54] sanctification. -[3822.88 --> 3823.50] This shows up -[3823.50 --> 3824.88] in 1 Thessalonians -[3824.88 --> 3825.32] 5 -[3825.32 --> 3826.72] a blessing -[3826.72 --> 3827.26] that we have -[3827.26 --> 3827.72] read here -[3827.72 --> 3828.74] in this series. -[3828.90 --> 3829.30] May God -[3829.30 --> 3829.76] himself -[3829.76 --> 3830.24] the God -[3830.24 --> 3830.70] of peace -[3830.70 --> 3831.80] sanctify you -[3831.80 --> 3832.18] through -[3832.18 --> 3832.96] and through -[3832.96 --> 3833.66] may your -[3833.66 --> 3834.22] whole spirit -[3834.22 --> 3834.82] and soul -[3834.82 --> 3835.32] and body -[3835.32 --> 3835.76] be kept -[3835.76 --> 3836.38] blameless -[3836.38 --> 3836.78] at the -[3836.78 --> 3837.04] coming -[3837.04 --> 3837.42] of our -[3837.42 --> 3837.66] Lord -[3837.66 --> 3837.96] Jesus -[3837.96 --> 3838.42] Christ -[3838.42 --> 3839.24] the one -[3839.24 --> 3839.90] who calls -[3839.90 --> 3840.06] you -[3840.06 --> 3840.76] is faithful -[3840.76 --> 3841.70] and he -[3841.70 --> 3842.70] will do -[3842.70 --> 3842.96] it. -[3843.64 --> 3844.02] Right? -[3844.06 --> 3844.42] The idea -[3844.42 --> 3844.86] there that -[3844.86 --> 3845.86] sanctification -[3845.86 --> 3847.40] is connected -[3847.40 --> 3848.34] to the -[3848.34 --> 3849.04] coming of -[3849.04 --> 3849.34] our -[3849.34 --> 3849.74] Lord -[3849.74 --> 3850.48] Jesus -[3850.48 --> 3851.22] Christ. -[3853.08 --> 3853.34] So -[3853.34 --> 3854.42] we're going -[3854.42 --> 3854.64] to keep -[3854.64 --> 3855.00] doing this -[3855.00 --> 3855.52] doctrine work -[3855.52 --> 3855.92] for a minute. -[3856.40 --> 3856.48] Right? -[3856.68 --> 3857.20] Positional -[3857.20 --> 3858.08] sanctification -[3858.08 --> 3859.66] is the -[3859.66 --> 3860.34] biblical -[3860.34 --> 3861.18] idea that -[3861.18 --> 3861.94] refers to -[3861.94 --> 3862.84] the status -[3862.84 --> 3864.30] of believers -[3864.30 --> 3866.32] as irreversibly -[3866.32 --> 3867.40] set apart -[3867.40 --> 3868.16] to God -[3868.16 --> 3869.16] through our -[3869.16 --> 3869.78] union with -[3869.78 --> 3870.24] Christ -[3870.24 --> 3871.60] because of -[3871.60 --> 3872.04] God's -[3872.04 --> 3872.42] decree -[3872.42 --> 3872.76] of -[3872.76 --> 3873.44] justification. -[3874.72 --> 3874.90] Right? -[3874.94 --> 3875.18] So this -[3875.18 --> 3875.74] refers to -[3875.74 --> 3876.20] the same -[3876.20 --> 3877.12] reality as -[3877.12 --> 3877.64] justification -[3877.64 --> 3878.70] but not -[3878.70 --> 3879.08] in the -[3879.08 --> 3879.74] legal or -[3879.74 --> 3880.18] forensic -[3880.18 --> 3880.72] terms -[3880.72 --> 3881.58] but rather -[3881.58 --> 3882.40] in terms -[3882.40 --> 3882.72] of our -[3882.72 --> 3883.26] union. -[3883.96 --> 3884.06] Right? -[3884.08 --> 3884.36] In terms -[3884.36 --> 3884.62] of our -[3884.62 --> 3885.34] new status -[3885.34 --> 3885.74] of being -[3885.74 --> 3886.46] set apart -[3886.46 --> 3886.80] of being -[3886.80 --> 3887.68] consecrated -[3887.68 --> 3888.50] for God's -[3888.50 --> 3889.24] holy purposes. -[3890.08 --> 3890.68] There's a -[3890.68 --> 3891.26] relationship -[3891.26 --> 3892.00] between the -[3892.00 --> 3892.46] judge -[3892.46 --> 3893.02] and the -[3893.02 --> 3893.50] acquitted -[3893.50 --> 3894.24] that the -[3894.24 --> 3895.16] language of -[3895.16 --> 3895.86] positional -[3895.86 --> 3896.64] sanctification -[3896.64 --> 3897.34] conveys. -[3898.36 --> 3898.58] At the -[3898.58 --> 3899.82] moment of -[3899.82 --> 3900.36] justification -[3900.36 --> 3901.42] we are -[3901.42 --> 3902.22] sanctified. -[3902.40 --> 3902.60] That is -[3902.60 --> 3902.80] we're -[3902.80 --> 3903.46] consecrated -[3903.46 --> 3903.96] and devoted -[3903.96 --> 3904.44] to God. -[3905.10 --> 3905.52] And what's -[3905.52 --> 3906.16] really important -[3906.16 --> 3907.06] is to see -[3907.06 --> 3907.78] that this -[3907.78 --> 3908.20] way, -[3908.36 --> 3908.88] this idea -[3908.88 --> 3909.82] of positional -[3909.82 --> 3910.48] sanctification -[3910.48 --> 3911.42] is the -[3911.42 --> 3911.84] way that -[3911.84 --> 3912.26] the Bible -[3912.26 --> 3913.26] usually -[3913.26 --> 3914.40] uses the -[3914.40 --> 3914.66] word -[3914.66 --> 3915.56] sanctification. -[3916.86 --> 3917.40] Overwhelmingly -[3917.40 --> 3917.96] this is the -[3917.96 --> 3918.46] dominant -[3918.46 --> 3919.82] understanding. -[3921.48 --> 3921.62] Right? -[3921.66 --> 3922.18] This act -[3922.18 --> 3922.92] has a purpose -[3922.92 --> 3923.74] that is beyond -[3923.74 --> 3924.34] the event -[3924.34 --> 3924.94] itself. -[3925.50 --> 3926.02] That is, -[3926.12 --> 3926.40] you are -[3926.40 --> 3927.12] set apart -[3927.12 --> 3928.06] to live -[3928.06 --> 3928.60] transforms -[3928.60 --> 3929.08] lives. -[3929.18 --> 3929.62] This act -[3929.62 --> 3930.86] is definitional -[3930.86 --> 3931.80] but we don't -[3931.80 --> 3932.66] experience it -[3932.66 --> 3933.32] in the act, -[3933.44 --> 3934.06] we experience -[3934.06 --> 3934.64] it in the -[3934.64 --> 3935.16] living out. -[3936.10 --> 3936.56] I'm going -[3936.56 --> 3936.92] to illustrate -[3936.92 --> 3938.32] this for -[3938.32 --> 3938.54] you. -[3939.12 --> 3939.90] And it's -[3939.90 --> 3940.16] in this -[3940.16 --> 3940.46] way that -[3940.46 --> 3941.04] adoption -[3941.04 --> 3942.08] becomes a -[3942.08 --> 3943.08] really powerful -[3943.08 --> 3944.54] metaphor for -[3944.54 --> 3945.06] the gospel -[3945.06 --> 3945.56] and its -[3945.56 --> 3946.02] impact. -[3946.64 --> 3947.34] If you've -[3947.34 --> 3947.78] ever gone -[3947.78 --> 3948.18] through -[3948.18 --> 3948.78] adoption, -[3949.06 --> 3949.52] you know -[3949.52 --> 3950.58] this firsthand. -[3951.80 --> 3951.96] Right? -[3952.52 --> 3953.72] As you are -[3953.72 --> 3954.14] going through -[3954.14 --> 3954.64] the process -[3954.64 --> 3955.26] of adoption, -[3955.56 --> 3957.30] there's a -[3957.30 --> 3958.20] moment where -[3958.20 --> 3958.84] you're standing -[3958.84 --> 3959.78] with a judge -[3959.78 --> 3960.44] or a justice -[3960.44 --> 3961.14] of the peace -[3961.14 --> 3961.94] depending on -[3961.94 --> 3962.30] what court -[3962.30 --> 3962.82] system you -[3962.82 --> 3963.18] are in -[3963.18 --> 3964.00] and the -[3964.00 --> 3965.12] judge declares -[3965.12 --> 3966.86] this child -[3966.86 --> 3967.46] is now -[3967.46 --> 3967.88] yours. -[3969.40 --> 3969.58] Right? -[3969.62 --> 3970.34] This child -[3970.34 --> 3971.30] has been -[3971.30 --> 3972.42] moved from -[3972.42 --> 3973.88] this place -[3973.88 --> 3975.30] into this -[3975.30 --> 3975.66] place. -[3975.76 --> 3976.16] There's a -[3976.16 --> 3977.64] legal exchange -[3977.64 --> 3978.56] that is taking -[3978.56 --> 3979.06] place. -[3979.58 --> 3980.00] A new -[3980.00 --> 3980.56] identity -[3980.56 --> 3981.84] is granted. -[3981.84 --> 3984.46] But then -[3984.46 --> 3985.20] what has -[3985.20 --> 3985.62] to happen? -[3987.54 --> 3988.18] The kid -[3988.18 --> 3988.90] has to go -[3988.90 --> 3989.28] home with -[3989.28 --> 3989.44] you. -[3990.38 --> 3990.98] The kid -[3990.98 --> 3991.66] has to learn -[3991.66 --> 3992.00] what it -[3992.00 --> 3992.54] means to -[3992.54 --> 3993.24] be a -[3993.24 --> 3993.60] dewinter -[3993.60 --> 3994.62] and not -[3994.62 --> 3995.18] whatever name -[3995.18 --> 3995.74] they had -[3995.74 --> 3996.32] previously. -[3996.84 --> 3997.36] The kid -[3997.36 --> 3997.88] has to learn -[3997.88 --> 3998.08] what it -[3998.08 --> 3998.30] means to -[3998.30 --> 3998.66] be part -[3998.66 --> 3999.00] of this -[3999.00 --> 3999.44] family. -[3999.58 --> 3999.82] And in -[3999.82 --> 4000.42] this family -[4000.42 --> 4000.84] we do -[4000.84 --> 4001.42] these things -[4001.42 --> 4002.20] this way. -[4002.28 --> 4002.60] In this -[4002.60 --> 4003.44] family we -[4003.44 --> 4003.86] don't do -[4003.86 --> 4004.44] these things -[4004.44 --> 4005.24] that way. -[4006.78 --> 4006.98] Right? -[4007.04 --> 4007.96] That learning -[4007.96 --> 4008.54] and that -[4008.54 --> 4009.54] new reality, -[4009.72 --> 4010.26] that going -[4010.26 --> 4010.98] home with -[4010.98 --> 4011.58] a family, -[4012.22 --> 4012.62] that's -[4012.62 --> 4013.40] sanctification. -[4014.10 --> 4014.58] Positional -[4014.58 --> 4015.78] sanctification. -[4017.04 --> 4017.40] Right? -[4017.46 --> 4017.94] The legal -[4017.94 --> 4018.42] declaration -[4018.42 --> 4019.22] has made -[4019.22 --> 4019.74] you part -[4019.74 --> 4020.04] of that -[4020.04 --> 4020.60] new family -[4020.60 --> 4021.18] and now -[4021.18 --> 4021.48] you have -[4021.48 --> 4022.10] to live -[4022.10 --> 4022.90] and learn -[4022.90 --> 4023.54] to live -[4023.54 --> 4024.70] as a -[4024.70 --> 4024.94] member -[4024.94 --> 4025.44] of that -[4025.44 --> 4025.86] family. -[4027.94 --> 4028.56] That's -[4028.56 --> 4029.28] positional -[4029.28 --> 4030.40] sanctification. -[4030.62 --> 4030.86] And that -[4030.86 --> 4031.20] is a -[4031.20 --> 4031.68] beautiful -[4031.68 --> 4032.16] picture -[4032.16 --> 4033.14] of what's -[4033.14 --> 4033.50] happening -[4033.50 --> 4034.30] in the -[4034.30 --> 4034.68] gospel. -[4035.72 --> 4036.40] A beautiful -[4036.40 --> 4037.32] picture of -[4037.32 --> 4038.00] the good -[4038.00 --> 4038.46] news of -[4038.46 --> 4039.08] Jesus Christ -[4039.08 --> 4039.94] being applied -[4039.94 --> 4040.98] to me -[4040.98 --> 4041.28] and -[4041.28 --> 4043.94] transforming -[4043.94 --> 4045.74] my -[4045.74 --> 4046.42] relationships -[4046.42 --> 4047.44] in -[4047.44 --> 4048.40] and to -[4048.40 --> 4049.00] the world -[4049.00 --> 4050.10] by transforming -[4050.10 --> 4050.96] my relationship -[4050.96 --> 4051.98] to God -[4051.98 --> 4052.82] our Father -[4052.82 --> 4053.80] and Creator. -[4058.00 --> 4058.86] Next -[4058.86 --> 4060.16] is the -[4060.16 --> 4060.46] idea -[4060.46 --> 4061.66] of progressive -[4061.66 --> 4062.62] sanctification. -[4063.32 --> 4063.42] Right? -[4063.46 --> 4063.82] The idea -[4063.82 --> 4064.88] that it -[4064.88 --> 4065.16] is the -[4065.16 --> 4065.54] work of -[4065.54 --> 4065.92] the Holy -[4065.92 --> 4066.38] Spirit -[4066.38 --> 4067.04] to make -[4067.04 --> 4067.56] us more -[4067.56 --> 4067.90] like -[4067.90 --> 4068.36] Jesus -[4068.36 --> 4069.04] by -[4069.04 --> 4069.84] progressively -[4069.84 --> 4070.58] freeing -[4070.58 --> 4070.88] us -[4070.88 --> 4071.08] from -[4071.08 --> 4071.26] the -[4071.26 --> 4071.64] power -[4071.64 --> 4072.12] of -[4072.12 --> 4072.42] sin -[4072.42 --> 4072.72] and -[4072.72 --> 4072.94] by -[4072.94 --> 4073.64] strengthening -[4073.64 --> 4074.12] our -[4074.12 --> 4074.74] disposition -[4074.74 --> 4075.88] towards -[4075.88 --> 4076.46] holiness. -[4077.46 --> 4078.38] We read -[4078.38 --> 4079.10] in Romans 6, -[4079.44 --> 4079.78] so now -[4079.78 --> 4080.72] offer yourselves -[4080.72 --> 4081.52] as slaves -[4081.52 --> 4082.42] to righteousness -[4082.42 --> 4083.10] leading -[4083.10 --> 4084.40] to holiness. -[4085.20 --> 4085.54] And so this -[4085.54 --> 4086.04] is the call -[4086.04 --> 4086.68] to grow -[4086.68 --> 4087.50] in the -[4087.50 --> 4088.12] identity -[4088.12 --> 4089.26] bestowed -[4089.26 --> 4091.06] and so -[4091.06 --> 4091.82] we progress -[4091.82 --> 4093.18] in what it -[4093.18 --> 4093.52] means to -[4093.52 --> 4094.36] be consecrated -[4094.36 --> 4095.14] to the -[4095.14 --> 4095.36] Lord. -[4095.80 --> 4096.16] And then -[4096.16 --> 4096.52] finally -[4096.52 --> 4097.56] we get -[4097.56 --> 4097.98] this idea -[4097.98 --> 4098.24] of -[4098.24 --> 4099.34] perfected -[4099.34 --> 4100.52] sanctification. -[4101.72 --> 4102.22] Right? -[4102.26 --> 4102.42] And the -[4102.42 --> 4102.98] idea here -[4102.98 --> 4104.06] is that -[4104.06 --> 4105.40] to experience -[4105.40 --> 4106.80] the full -[4106.80 --> 4107.42] freedom -[4107.42 --> 4108.62] from sin -[4108.62 --> 4108.92] and -[4108.92 --> 4110.10] uninterrupted -[4110.10 --> 4110.56] communion -[4110.56 --> 4111.36] with God -[4111.36 --> 4112.24] that awaits -[4112.24 --> 4112.72] us -[4112.72 --> 4113.50] in the -[4113.50 --> 4113.98] life to -[4113.98 --> 4114.32] come. -[4114.32 --> 4115.96] At this -[4115.96 --> 4116.54] language -[4116.54 --> 4117.46] this category -[4117.46 --> 4118.04] of -[4118.04 --> 4118.82] perfected -[4118.82 --> 4119.74] sanctification -[4119.74 --> 4121.18] is sometimes -[4121.18 --> 4125.34] included -[4125.34 --> 4125.82] in the -[4125.82 --> 4126.12] broader -[4126.12 --> 4126.82] category -[4126.82 --> 4127.16] of -[4127.16 --> 4128.12] glorification -[4128.12 --> 4129.46] which -[4129.46 --> 4129.94] includes -[4129.94 --> 4130.44] more than -[4130.44 --> 4131.14] sanctification -[4131.14 --> 4131.58] but also -[4131.58 --> 4132.12] resurrection -[4132.12 --> 4132.56] and the -[4132.56 --> 4132.92] restoration -[4132.92 --> 4133.54] of all -[4133.54 --> 4133.94] things -[4133.94 --> 4134.56] at the -[4134.56 --> 4134.88] end of -[4134.88 --> 4135.28] time -[4135.28 --> 4135.98] the end -[4135.98 --> 4136.52] of history. -[4137.96 --> 4138.88] Now in -[4138.88 --> 4139.28] each of -[4139.28 --> 4140.12] these places -[4140.12 --> 4140.88] positional -[4140.88 --> 4141.44] and progressive -[4141.44 --> 4142.52] and perfected -[4142.52 --> 4143.26] there's a -[4143.26 --> 4143.72] sense -[4143.72 --> 4144.94] in which -[4144.94 --> 4146.26] we can -[4146.26 --> 4146.74] make -[4146.74 --> 4149.36] sense -[4149.36 --> 4150.20] of this -[4150.20 --> 4151.20] theological -[4151.20 --> 4151.82] truth -[4151.82 --> 4153.02] and reality -[4153.02 --> 4154.56] with another -[4154.56 --> 4155.10] theological -[4155.10 --> 4155.54] term -[4155.54 --> 4155.88] and I -[4155.88 --> 4156.40] understand -[4156.40 --> 4156.74] that we're -[4156.74 --> 4157.18] getting lots -[4157.18 --> 4157.48] of terms -[4157.48 --> 4157.90] this morning -[4157.90 --> 4159.12] but it's -[4159.12 --> 4159.70] the idea -[4159.70 --> 4160.04] of -[4160.04 --> 4160.90] inaugurated -[4160.90 --> 4161.78] eschatology -[4161.78 --> 4162.74] and so -[4162.74 --> 4163.02] that is -[4163.02 --> 4163.48] that Jesus -[4163.48 --> 4164.14] in his -[4164.14 --> 4164.46] life, -[4164.58 --> 4164.78] death, -[4164.98 --> 4165.38] resurrection -[4165.38 --> 4166.64] and exaltation -[4166.64 --> 4168.02] started, -[4168.34 --> 4168.86] brought in, -[4169.02 --> 4169.74] ushered in -[4169.74 --> 4170.38] the kingdom -[4170.38 --> 4171.22] of God -[4171.22 --> 4171.84] and that has -[4171.84 --> 4172.74] begun -[4172.74 --> 4173.54] in his -[4173.54 --> 4174.22] life and -[4174.22 --> 4174.48] death -[4174.48 --> 4175.12] that has -[4175.12 --> 4175.90] broken into -[4175.90 --> 4176.36] the world -[4176.36 --> 4176.74] through the -[4176.74 --> 4177.24] church at -[4177.24 --> 4177.80] Pentecost -[4177.80 --> 4178.26] and the work -[4178.26 --> 4178.62] of the Holy -[4178.62 --> 4178.96] Spirit -[4178.96 --> 4179.54] that the -[4179.54 --> 4180.12] church now -[4180.12 --> 4181.08] lives out -[4181.08 --> 4182.04] this truth -[4182.04 --> 4182.68] and this way -[4182.68 --> 4183.22] of being -[4183.22 --> 4183.74] in relation -[4183.74 --> 4184.52] to the world -[4184.52 --> 4185.04] and that we -[4185.04 --> 4185.86] wait for the -[4185.86 --> 4186.80] day of its -[4186.80 --> 4187.56] fullness -[4187.56 --> 4188.40] when Christ -[4188.40 --> 4188.90] returns. -[4190.48 --> 4191.34] You hear in -[4191.34 --> 4192.58] that each -[4192.58 --> 4193.00] one of these -[4193.00 --> 4194.46] aspects of -[4194.46 --> 4195.12] sanctification. -[4195.12 --> 4195.18] sanctification. -[4197.68 --> 4197.94] Now, -[4198.66 --> 4200.50] here's why -[4200.50 --> 4201.14] this matters -[4201.14 --> 4202.12] and why we -[4202.12 --> 4202.76] belabored this -[4202.76 --> 4203.64] doctrinal point -[4203.64 --> 4205.02] and so here's -[4205.02 --> 4205.56] the practical -[4205.56 --> 4206.04] payoff. -[4206.18 --> 4206.60] So thank you -[4206.60 --> 4207.08] for journeying -[4207.08 --> 4207.50] with me. -[4207.92 --> 4208.68] You can applaud -[4208.68 --> 4209.14] yourself, -[4209.26 --> 4209.82] pat yourself on -[4209.82 --> 4210.32] the back for -[4210.32 --> 4210.70] doing good -[4210.70 --> 4211.16] work there -[4211.16 --> 4213.12] because besides -[4213.12 --> 4213.74] the sheer -[4213.74 --> 4214.88] beauty of -[4214.88 --> 4215.50] the adoption -[4215.50 --> 4216.22] image for -[4216.22 --> 4216.76] understanding -[4216.76 --> 4217.52] sanctification -[4217.52 --> 4218.64] and that part -[4218.64 --> 4219.10] makes my -[4219.10 --> 4219.68] heart sing -[4219.68 --> 4221.20] but also -[4221.20 --> 4221.84] here's why -[4221.84 --> 4222.26] it matters. -[4222.26 --> 4224.62] personal holiness -[4224.62 --> 4226.58] is at stake -[4226.58 --> 4227.78] in how we -[4227.78 --> 4228.38] talk about -[4228.38 --> 4229.24] personal holiness. -[4231.12 --> 4231.46] Okay, so -[4231.46 --> 4231.86] here's what I -[4231.86 --> 4232.32] mean by that. -[4232.82 --> 4234.64] If we focus -[4234.64 --> 4236.72] on positional -[4236.72 --> 4237.54] sanctification -[4237.54 --> 4238.04] that is our -[4238.04 --> 4238.90] new reality -[4238.90 --> 4240.28] without an -[4240.28 --> 4241.06] understanding of -[4241.06 --> 4241.48] progressive -[4241.48 --> 4242.28] sanctification -[4242.28 --> 4243.46] we end up -[4243.46 --> 4244.14] with what some -[4244.14 --> 4244.48] people have -[4244.48 --> 4245.00] called cheap -[4245.00 --> 4245.42] grace. -[4246.34 --> 4247.22] The idea that -[4247.22 --> 4247.64] says I'm -[4247.64 --> 4248.52] already accepted -[4248.52 --> 4249.36] therefore I -[4249.36 --> 4250.02] don't have to -[4250.02 --> 4250.36] obey. -[4250.36 --> 4252.32] that's cheap -[4252.32 --> 4252.70] grace. -[4254.10 --> 4254.82] But if we -[4254.82 --> 4255.44] focus on -[4255.44 --> 4256.04] progressive -[4256.04 --> 4256.80] without -[4256.80 --> 4257.94] propositional -[4257.94 --> 4258.86] right, without -[4258.86 --> 4259.96] this definitional -[4259.96 --> 4261.06] change you end -[4261.06 --> 4261.42] up in this -[4261.42 --> 4261.82] place of -[4261.82 --> 4262.40] legalism -[4262.40 --> 4263.66] that says -[4263.66 --> 4264.30] you have to -[4264.30 --> 4264.84] do all of -[4264.84 --> 4265.46] these things -[4265.46 --> 4266.84] or live in -[4266.84 --> 4267.68] fear of -[4267.68 --> 4268.14] not doing -[4268.14 --> 4269.02] them because -[4269.02 --> 4269.34] it's not -[4269.34 --> 4269.88] based on -[4269.88 --> 4270.32] this new -[4270.32 --> 4270.80] identity -[4270.80 --> 4271.78] reality for -[4271.78 --> 4272.00] you. -[4273.34 --> 4273.60] And then -[4273.60 --> 4274.38] likewise if -[4274.38 --> 4274.68] you have -[4274.68 --> 4275.24] progressive -[4275.24 --> 4275.90] without -[4275.90 --> 4276.78] perfected -[4276.78 --> 4277.76] we end -[4277.76 --> 4278.84] up with -[4278.84 --> 4279.66] hopelessness. -[4280.36 --> 4281.76] because we -[4281.76 --> 4282.06] go what's -[4282.06 --> 4282.44] the point -[4282.44 --> 4282.68] of it -[4282.68 --> 4283.84] all if -[4283.84 --> 4284.12] I'm never -[4284.12 --> 4284.38] going to -[4284.38 --> 4284.80] get there. -[4285.82 --> 4286.44] But you -[4286.44 --> 4287.12] will be -[4287.12 --> 4287.74] ushered -[4287.74 --> 4288.72] into this -[4288.72 --> 4289.58] full -[4289.58 --> 4290.48] transformation -[4290.48 --> 4291.26] at the -[4291.26 --> 4291.74] return of -[4291.74 --> 4291.96] Jesus -[4291.96 --> 4292.44] Christ. -[4293.40 --> 4294.28] I must -[4294.28 --> 4294.74] obey -[4294.74 --> 4295.32] because if -[4295.32 --> 4295.92] I fail -[4295.92 --> 4296.56] we fear -[4296.56 --> 4297.00] I won't -[4297.00 --> 4297.64] be accepted. -[4299.18 --> 4299.68] Instead -[4299.68 --> 4300.32] when we -[4300.32 --> 4301.04] understand this -[4301.04 --> 4301.70] properly -[4301.70 --> 4302.20] when we -[4302.20 --> 4302.68] pull all -[4302.68 --> 4303.04] of these -[4303.04 --> 4303.36] three -[4303.36 --> 4304.14] together -[4304.14 --> 4304.60] what we -[4304.60 --> 4305.18] see is -[4305.18 --> 4305.86] that I'm -[4305.86 --> 4306.46] accepted -[4306.46 --> 4307.78] by Jesus -[4307.78 --> 4308.62] therefore -[4308.62 --> 4310.00] I get -[4310.00 --> 4310.98] to obey -[4310.98 --> 4311.94] Jesus. -[4313.10 --> 4313.72] In fact -[4313.72 --> 4314.36] what Paul -[4314.36 --> 4315.22] is pointing -[4315.22 --> 4315.84] out here -[4315.84 --> 4316.44] is that -[4316.44 --> 4317.80] disobedience -[4317.80 --> 4319.08] demeans -[4319.08 --> 4320.02] your identity. -[4321.86 --> 4322.54] Minimizing -[4322.54 --> 4323.44] makes -[4323.44 --> 4324.30] excuses -[4324.30 --> 4326.18] that rejects -[4326.18 --> 4326.78] the transformation -[4326.78 --> 4327.42] you've been -[4327.42 --> 4327.70] given. -[4328.36 --> 4328.46] Right? -[4328.88 --> 4329.58] Let's use -[4329.58 --> 4329.94] the metaphor -[4329.94 --> 4330.24] again. -[4330.56 --> 4331.28] Not being -[4331.28 --> 4331.92] all in -[4331.92 --> 4332.62] on this -[4332.62 --> 4333.82] is like -[4333.82 --> 4334.66] asking for -[4334.66 --> 4335.54] the orphanage -[4335.54 --> 4335.96] when you're -[4335.96 --> 4336.36] sitting -[4336.36 --> 4336.92] at your -[4336.92 --> 4337.10] new -[4337.10 --> 4337.50] family's -[4337.50 --> 4337.82] table -[4337.82 --> 4339.66] saying -[4339.66 --> 4339.84] I'd -[4339.84 --> 4340.00] rather -[4340.00 --> 4340.20] have -[4340.20 --> 4340.46] that. -[4342.86 --> 4343.46] But -[4343.46 --> 4343.64] you've -[4343.64 --> 4343.98] got a -[4343.98 --> 4344.94] God-given -[4344.94 --> 4346.16] blood-bought -[4346.16 --> 4346.78] family -[4346.78 --> 4347.72] that wants -[4347.72 --> 4348.04] to say -[4348.04 --> 4348.88] this is -[4348.88 --> 4349.44] who you -[4349.44 --> 4349.82] are. -[4350.76 --> 4351.52] And this -[4351.52 --> 4352.00] holiness -[4352.00 --> 4352.56] language -[4352.56 --> 4353.22] for Paul -[4353.22 --> 4354.02] is repeated -[4354.02 --> 4354.88] in verse -[4354.88 --> 4355.88] 4 and -[4355.88 --> 4356.56] 7 and -[4356.56 --> 4356.84] it is -[4356.84 --> 4357.30] eventually -[4357.30 --> 4357.90] grounded -[4357.90 --> 4358.74] in the -[4358.74 --> 4359.28] person and -[4359.28 --> 4359.62] work of -[4359.62 --> 4359.94] the Holy -[4359.94 --> 4360.36] Spirit -[4360.36 --> 4361.20] in verse -[4361.20 --> 4361.50] 8. -[4362.82 --> 4363.16] For God -[4363.16 --> 4363.44] did not -[4363.44 --> 4363.88] call us -[4363.88 --> 4364.16] to be -[4364.16 --> 4364.62] impure -[4364.62 --> 4364.96] but to -[4364.96 --> 4365.28] live a -[4365.28 --> 4365.50] holy -[4365.50 --> 4365.82] life. -[4365.98 --> 4366.18] Therefore -[4366.18 --> 4366.80] anyone who -[4366.80 --> 4367.34] rejects -[4367.34 --> 4367.52] this -[4367.52 --> 4368.02] instruction -[4368.02 --> 4368.88] does not -[4368.88 --> 4369.30] reject a -[4369.30 --> 4369.90] human being -[4369.90 --> 4370.68] but God -[4370.68 --> 4371.30] the very -[4371.30 --> 4372.00] God who -[4372.00 --> 4372.74] gives you -[4372.74 --> 4373.24] his -[4373.24 --> 4374.14] Holy -[4374.14 --> 4375.32] Spirit. -[4377.14 --> 4377.28] The -[4377.28 --> 4377.88] spiritual -[4377.88 --> 4378.42] gift -[4378.42 --> 4378.92] most -[4378.92 --> 4379.48] common -[4379.48 --> 4380.32] to all -[4380.32 --> 4380.78] Christian -[4380.78 --> 4381.38] that is -[4381.38 --> 4381.98] actually -[4381.98 --> 4382.86] what defines -[4382.86 --> 4383.50] being a -[4383.50 --> 4383.88] Christian -[4383.88 --> 4385.04] is the -[4385.04 --> 4385.26] Holy -[4385.26 --> 4385.82] Spirit -[4385.82 --> 4386.92] and the -[4386.92 --> 4387.14] gift -[4387.14 --> 4387.80] towards -[4387.80 --> 4388.32] obedience -[4388.32 --> 4389.24] and -[4389.24 --> 4389.68] transformation. -[4391.76 --> 4392.68] All right. -[4392.68 --> 4394.78] let's -[4394.78 --> 4396.08] end this -[4396.08 --> 4396.48] morning -[4396.48 --> 4398.58] by thinking -[4398.58 --> 4399.42] about the -[4399.42 --> 4400.08] practical -[4400.08 --> 4401.24] implications -[4401.24 --> 4401.78] of this. -[4403.34 --> 4403.54] And so -[4403.54 --> 4403.92] remember -[4403.92 --> 4405.04] in justification -[4405.04 --> 4406.22] and sanctification -[4406.22 --> 4407.24] you are -[4407.24 --> 4407.96] transformed. -[4408.78 --> 4409.26] In a -[4409.26 --> 4410.04] positional -[4410.04 --> 4410.80] understanding -[4410.80 --> 4411.54] of sanctification -[4411.54 --> 4412.12] you are -[4412.12 --> 4412.64] given a -[4412.64 --> 4413.20] new way -[4413.20 --> 4413.80] of relating -[4413.80 --> 4414.18] to the -[4414.18 --> 4414.72] world by -[4414.72 --> 4415.40] belonging to -[4415.40 --> 4415.66] a new -[4415.66 --> 4416.10] family. -[4416.76 --> 4417.20] And in -[4417.20 --> 4417.60] progressive -[4417.60 --> 4418.26] sanctification -[4418.26 --> 4419.02] you and -[4419.02 --> 4419.34] the Holy -[4419.34 --> 4419.76] Spirit -[4419.76 --> 4420.36] cooperate -[4420.36 --> 4421.04] together -[4421.04 --> 4421.48] that you -[4421.48 --> 4421.70] might -[4421.70 --> 4422.10] grow -[4422.10 --> 4422.98] in living -[4422.98 --> 4423.54] as one -[4423.54 --> 4424.10] who belongs -[4424.10 --> 4424.64] to God -[4424.64 --> 4425.20] and in -[4425.20 --> 4425.78] perfected -[4425.78 --> 4426.34] sanctification -[4426.34 --> 4427.00] you are -[4427.00 --> 4427.52] shown the -[4427.52 --> 4428.02] purpose of -[4428.02 --> 4428.32] it all -[4428.32 --> 4429.26] the telos -[4429.26 --> 4430.00] towards which -[4430.00 --> 4430.66] we are all -[4430.66 --> 4431.30] going -[4431.30 --> 4432.52] blamelessness -[4432.52 --> 4432.84] at the -[4432.84 --> 4433.38] resurrection -[4433.38 --> 4434.72] and glorification -[4434.72 --> 4435.38] to be with -[4435.38 --> 4435.70] God -[4435.70 --> 4436.44] forever. -[4437.50 --> 4438.00] And so -[4438.00 --> 4438.78] for right -[4438.78 --> 4439.26] now -[4439.26 --> 4441.00] what does -[4441.00 --> 4441.34] that look -[4441.34 --> 4441.68] like? -[4442.18 --> 4442.68] For right -[4442.68 --> 4443.10] now -[4443.10 --> 4443.70] what does -[4443.70 --> 4444.16] God tell -[4444.16 --> 4444.46] us? -[4445.48 --> 4445.78] Well one -[4445.78 --> 4445.98] of the -[4445.98 --> 4446.56] places Paul -[4446.56 --> 4446.86] goes -[4446.86 --> 4447.44] immediately -[4447.44 --> 4449.64] is to -[4449.64 --> 4450.08] our -[4450.08 --> 4451.08] sexual -[4451.08 --> 4452.14] lives. -[4453.52 --> 4454.38] In a -[4454.38 --> 4454.72] world -[4454.72 --> 4455.52] saturated -[4455.52 --> 4456.36] with sex -[4456.36 --> 4457.10] and with -[4457.10 --> 4457.38] taking -[4457.38 --> 4457.82] advantage -[4457.82 --> 4458.38] of people -[4458.38 --> 4460.08] you are -[4460.08 --> 4460.92] consecrated -[4460.92 --> 4461.92] for something -[4461.92 --> 4462.52] different. -[4464.06 --> 4464.46] And not -[4464.46 --> 4465.30] only do -[4465.30 --> 4466.02] you start -[4466.02 --> 4466.58] with a -[4466.58 --> 4466.88] different -[4466.88 --> 4467.52] relationship -[4467.52 --> 4468.26] to sex -[4468.26 --> 4468.64] and to -[4468.64 --> 4469.18] sexuality -[4469.18 --> 4470.40] and through -[4470.40 --> 4470.88] that to -[4470.88 --> 4471.68] all people -[4471.68 --> 4473.10] but by -[4473.10 --> 4473.42] the Holy -[4473.42 --> 4473.76] Spirit -[4473.76 --> 4474.06] you're -[4474.06 --> 4474.68] actually -[4474.68 --> 4475.10] made -[4475.10 --> 4475.66] able -[4475.66 --> 4476.54] to live -[4476.54 --> 4476.88] that -[4476.88 --> 4477.42] out. -[4477.44 --> 4483.16] in a -[4483.16 --> 4483.68] culture -[4483.68 --> 4484.60] and a -[4484.60 --> 4485.06] time -[4485.06 --> 4485.88] and place -[4485.88 --> 4486.22] that -[4486.22 --> 4487.18] celebrates -[4487.18 --> 4488.28] sexual -[4488.28 --> 4489.28] hedonism -[4489.28 --> 4490.72] we get -[4490.72 --> 4491.40] to celebrate -[4491.40 --> 4492.14] holiness -[4492.14 --> 4493.00] to God. -[4494.00 --> 4495.04] We get -[4495.04 --> 4495.62] to celebrate -[4495.62 --> 4496.44] being like -[4496.44 --> 4497.12] God. -[4497.24 --> 4497.52] We get -[4497.52 --> 4498.04] to celebrate -[4498.04 --> 4498.84] being transformed -[4498.84 --> 4499.74] into the -[4499.74 --> 4500.28] image of -[4500.28 --> 4501.04] Jesus Christ -[4501.04 --> 4501.86] which is a -[4501.86 --> 4502.46] celebration -[4502.46 --> 4503.34] of what -[4503.34 --> 4503.90] humanity -[4503.90 --> 4504.82] was always -[4504.82 --> 4505.38] intended -[4505.38 --> 4505.92] to be -[4505.92 --> 4506.32] like. -[4506.32 --> 4506.42] joy. -[4507.42 --> 4508.02] This -[4508.02 --> 4509.02] idea -[4509.02 --> 4509.80] of life -[4509.80 --> 4510.72] is actually -[4510.72 --> 4511.48] true -[4511.48 --> 4512.18] and greater -[4512.18 --> 4512.86] joy. -[4513.00 --> 4513.80] This idea -[4513.80 --> 4514.36] about who -[4514.36 --> 4515.06] you are -[4515.06 --> 4515.96] is actually -[4515.96 --> 4516.44] true -[4516.44 --> 4517.06] and greater -[4517.06 --> 4517.62] good. -[4518.46 --> 4519.08] This way -[4519.08 --> 4519.62] of being -[4519.62 --> 4520.04] in the -[4520.04 --> 4520.34] world -[4520.34 --> 4520.92] is so -[4520.92 --> 4521.24] much -[4521.24 --> 4521.78] more -[4521.78 --> 4522.22] fulfilling -[4522.22 --> 4522.86] because -[4522.86 --> 4523.40] anything -[4523.40 --> 4523.84] else -[4523.84 --> 4524.34] in the -[4524.34 --> 4524.56] end -[4524.56 --> 4525.06] proves -[4525.06 --> 4525.60] to be -[4525.60 --> 4526.22] vapid -[4526.22 --> 4526.60] and -[4526.60 --> 4526.98] empty. -[4526.98 --> 4527.22] It -[4527.22 --> 4527.58] proves -[4527.58 --> 4528.02] to be -[4528.02 --> 4528.88] fleeting -[4528.88 --> 4529.30] and -[4529.30 --> 4529.66] anemic. -[4529.84 --> 4529.92] It -[4529.92 --> 4530.20] proves -[4530.20 --> 4530.58] to be -[4530.58 --> 4531.04] like the -[4531.04 --> 4531.46] teacher -[4531.46 --> 4531.66] in -[4531.66 --> 4532.34] Ecclesiastes -[4532.34 --> 4533.38] a chasing -[4533.38 --> 4534.04] after the -[4534.04 --> 4534.38] wind. -[4535.38 --> 4535.94] It's -[4535.94 --> 4536.32] meaningless. -[4537.96 --> 4538.54] It's -[4538.54 --> 4539.16] only in -[4539.16 --> 4539.88] relationship -[4539.88 --> 4540.62] to God -[4540.62 --> 4541.02] and only -[4541.02 --> 4541.22] in -[4541.22 --> 4542.08] understanding -[4542.08 --> 4542.88] what he -[4542.88 --> 4543.38] has done -[4543.38 --> 4543.88] for us -[4543.88 --> 4544.22] and who -[4544.22 --> 4544.70] he has -[4544.70 --> 4545.12] made us -[4545.12 --> 4545.56] to be -[4545.56 --> 4546.16] that we -[4546.16 --> 4546.64] begin -[4546.64 --> 4547.14] to make -[4547.14 --> 4547.54] sense -[4547.54 --> 4547.96] not only -[4547.96 --> 4548.34] of this -[4548.34 --> 4548.62] life -[4548.62 --> 4549.20] but what -[4549.20 --> 4549.80] it actually -[4549.80 --> 4550.30] means -[4550.30 --> 4550.86] to be -[4550.86 --> 4551.66] human. -[4553.54 --> 4553.96] You -[4553.96 --> 4554.94] are set -[4554.94 --> 4555.84] apart. -[4556.92 --> 4557.08] You -[4557.08 --> 4557.94] are called -[4557.94 --> 4558.88] and enabled -[4558.88 --> 4559.70] to live -[4559.70 --> 4560.42] that way -[4560.42 --> 4562.08] and God -[4562.08 --> 4562.98] will carry -[4562.98 --> 4563.94] you to -[4563.94 --> 4564.40] the end -[4564.40 --> 4564.78] of that -[4564.78 --> 4565.10] to the -[4565.10 --> 4565.96] completeness -[4565.96 --> 4566.82] of your -[4566.82 --> 4567.32] holiness. -[4569.00 --> 4569.72] May I -[4569.72 --> 4570.20] just encourage -[4570.20 --> 4570.48] you -[4570.48 --> 4573.02] if more -[4573.02 --> 4573.36] of us -[4573.36 --> 4573.70] started -[4573.70 --> 4574.26] living like -[4574.26 --> 4574.62] that was -[4574.62 --> 4574.98] true -[4574.98 --> 4577.30] those -[4577.30 --> 4577.82] questions -[4577.82 --> 4578.64] and complaints -[4578.64 --> 4579.86] and concerns -[4579.86 --> 4580.20] that we -[4580.20 --> 4580.54] talked about -[4580.54 --> 4580.72] at the -[4580.72 --> 4580.96] beginning -[4580.96 --> 4582.30] what -[4582.30 --> 4582.68] difference -[4582.68 --> 4583.18] does this -[4583.18 --> 4583.48] make -[4583.48 --> 4585.04] would be -[4585.04 --> 4585.80] immediately -[4585.80 --> 4587.04] destroyed. -[4588.88 --> 4592.26] increasingly -[4592.26 --> 4593.86] it is -[4593.86 --> 4594.46] simultaneously -[4594.46 --> 4595.22] becoming -[4595.22 --> 4596.34] harder -[4596.34 --> 4597.48] to be -[4597.48 --> 4597.94] Christian -[4597.94 --> 4599.42] in the -[4599.42 --> 4599.62] world -[4599.62 --> 4600.04] today -[4600.04 --> 4601.86] but -[4601.86 --> 4602.50] rather than -[4602.50 --> 4603.04] lamenting -[4603.04 --> 4603.48] that we -[4603.48 --> 4603.82] have an -[4603.82 --> 4604.34] opportunity -[4604.34 --> 4605.40] to say -[4605.40 --> 4605.66] you know -[4605.66 --> 4606.00] what that -[4606.00 --> 4606.40] does -[4606.40 --> 4607.14] it makes -[4607.14 --> 4608.08] it easier -[4608.08 --> 4609.36] to stand -[4609.36 --> 4610.18] out -[4610.18 --> 4611.82] to stand -[4611.82 --> 4612.48] apart -[4612.48 --> 4613.96] to look -[4613.96 --> 4614.80] like -[4614.80 --> 4615.56] the image -[4615.56 --> 4616.08] of Jesus -[4616.08 --> 4616.54] Christ -[4616.54 --> 4616.96] in the -[4616.96 --> 4617.16] world -[4617.16 --> 4617.54] today -[4617.54 --> 4618.12] and may -[4618.12 --> 4618.52] I just -[4618.52 --> 4618.74] say -[4618.74 --> 4619.38] that -[4619.38 --> 4620.46] is what -[4620.46 --> 4620.62] our -[4620.62 --> 4620.90] hurting -[4620.90 --> 4621.20] world -[4621.20 --> 4621.62] needs -[4621.62 --> 4623.22] more -[4623.22 --> 4623.76] Christians -[4623.76 --> 4624.10] who -[4624.10 --> 4624.42] look -[4624.42 --> 4625.22] like -[4625.22 --> 4626.12] Jesus -[4626.12 --> 4626.88] amen -[4626.88 --> 4628.16] let's -[4628.16 --> 4628.30] pray -[4628.30 --> 4628.68] together -[4628.68 --> 4631.82] dear -[4631.82 --> 4632.20] Jesus -[4632.20 --> 4633.64] transform -[4633.64 --> 4634.66] us -[4634.66 --> 4635.24] transform -[4635.24 --> 4635.68] our -[4635.68 --> 4636.12] lives -[4636.12 --> 4637.02] in line -[4637.02 --> 4637.46] with -[4637.46 --> 4637.72] the -[4637.72 --> 4638.22] calling -[4638.22 --> 4638.50] that -[4638.50 --> 4638.68] you -[4638.68 --> 4638.92] have -[4638.92 --> 4639.18] given -[4639.18 --> 4639.42] us -[4639.42 --> 4640.16] transform -[4640.16 --> 4640.48] our -[4640.48 --> 4640.80] lives -[4640.80 --> 4641.82] working -[4641.82 --> 4642.20] out -[4642.20 --> 4642.56] of -[4642.56 --> 4642.82] our -[4642.82 --> 4643.20] new -[4643.20 --> 4643.94] identities -[4643.94 --> 4644.78] in -[4644.78 --> 4645.00] you -[4645.00 --> 4645.28] our -[4645.28 --> 4645.64] new -[4645.64 --> 4646.48] relationships -[4646.48 --> 4647.28] to -[4647.28 --> 4647.50] you -[4647.50 --> 4647.90] this -[4647.90 --> 4648.22] is -[4648.22 --> 4648.44] what -[4648.44 --> 4648.58] it -[4648.58 --> 4648.96] means -[4648.96 --> 4649.22] to -[4649.22 --> 4649.64] be -[4649.64 --> 4650.78] lavishly -[4650.78 --> 4651.20] loved -[4651.20 --> 4651.64] children -[4651.64 --> 4652.06] of the -[4652.06 --> 4652.36] father -[4652.36 --> 4652.64] this -[4652.64 --> 4652.78] is -[4652.78 --> 4652.92] what -[4652.92 --> 4653.04] it -[4653.04 --> 4653.34] means -[4653.34 --> 4653.54] to -[4653.54 --> 4653.86] be -[4653.86 --> 4654.50] your -[4654.50 --> 4654.96] brothers -[4654.96 --> 4655.36] and -[4655.36 --> 4655.78] sisters -[4655.78 --> 4656.14] Lord -[4656.14 --> 4656.52] Jesus -[4656.52 --> 4656.92] Christ -[4656.92 --> 4657.56] this -[4657.56 --> 4657.76] is -[4657.76 --> 4657.92] what -[4657.92 --> 4658.06] it -[4658.06 --> 4658.34] means -[4658.34 --> 4658.56] to -[4658.56 --> 4658.82] be -[4658.82 --> 4659.86] consecrated -[4659.86 --> 4660.24] for -[4660.24 --> 4660.26] for -[4660.26 --> 4660.94] divine -[4660.94 --> 4661.98] purpose -[4661.98 --> 4662.32] and -[4662.32 --> 4662.70] so -[4662.70 --> 4663.08] Lord -[4663.08 --> 4663.46] God -[4663.46 --> 4664.24] send -[4664.24 --> 4664.66] us -[4664.66 --> 4665.02] out -[4665.02 --> 4665.46] now -[4665.46 --> 4665.68] in -[4665.68 --> 4665.82] the -[4665.82 --> 4666.46] power -[4666.46 --> 4667.12] of -[4667.12 --> 4667.30] the -[4667.30 --> 4667.56] Holy -[4667.56 --> 4667.98] Spirit -[4667.98 --> 4669.90] send -[4669.90 --> 4670.12] us -[4670.12 --> 4670.32] out -[4670.32 --> 4670.66] now -[4670.66 --> 4671.66] that -[4671.66 --> 4671.94] even -[4671.94 --> 4672.30] as -[4672.30 --> 4672.52] we -[4672.52 --> 4672.98] face -[4672.98 --> 4673.88] trials -[4673.88 --> 4674.72] tribulations -[4674.72 --> 4675.14] even -[4675.14 --> 4675.38] as -[4675.38 --> 4675.56] we -[4675.56 --> 4675.94] face -[4675.94 --> 4677.02] questions -[4677.02 --> 4677.38] and -[4677.38 --> 4677.88] opposition -[4677.88 --> 4678.22] and -[4678.22 --> 4678.68] wondering -[4678.68 --> 4679.42] for -[4679.42 --> 4679.66] our -[4679.66 --> 4680.00] faith -[4680.00 --> 4681.40] that -[4681.40 --> 4681.74] people -[4681.74 --> 4682.24] looking -[4682.24 --> 4682.58] at -[4682.58 --> 4682.90] our -[4682.90 --> 4683.38] lives -[4683.38 --> 4683.56] would -[4683.56 --> 4683.72] be -[4683.72 --> 4684.40] amazed -[4684.40 --> 4685.26] at -[4685.26 --> 4685.46] what -[4685.46 --> 4685.94] you -[4685.94 --> 4686.88] are -[4686.88 --> 4687.22] doing -[4687.22 --> 4688.30] in -[4688.30 --> 4688.54] Jesus -[4688.54 --> 4688.88] name -[4688.88 --> 4689.08] we -[4689.08 --> 4689.36] pray -[4689.36 --> 4690.50] amen -[4717.22 --> 4719.22] purify -[4719.22 --> 4721.50] my -[4721.50 --> 4723.02] heart -[4723.02 --> 4723.22] let -[4723.90 --> 4724.34] me -[4724.34 --> 4724.72] be -[4724.72 --> 4725.54] as -[4725.54 --> 4727.44] gold -[4727.44 --> 4728.18] and -[4728.18 --> 4729.22] precious -[4729.22 --> 4730.92] silver -[4730.92 --> 4732.66] purify -[4732.66 --> 4734.22] my -[4734.22 --> 4735.58] heart -[4735.58 --> 4736.52] let -[4736.52 --> 4736.94] me -[4736.94 --> 4737.38] be -[4737.38 --> 4738.18] as -[4738.18 --> 4739.22] gold -[4740.14 --> 4741.22] pure -[4741.22 --> 4743.22] gold -[4743.22 --> 4745.22] reap -[4745.22 --> 4746.22] my -[4746.22 --> 4747.22] heart -[4747.22 --> 4750.22] my -[4750.22 --> 4751.22] heart's -[4752.36 --> 4753.02] one -[4753.02 --> 4753.22] desire -[4753.22 --> 4755.22] is -[4756.58 --> 4758.22] to be -[4758.22 --> 4760.22] holy -[4761.08 --> 4763.22] set -[4764.12 --> 4764.22] apart -[4764.22 --> 4765.22] for -[4766.04 --> 4766.22] you -[4766.94 --> 4767.22] Lord -[4767.98 --> 4768.22] I -[4768.22 --> 4769.04] choose -[4769.04 --> 4769.22] to -[4769.22 --> 4770.22] be -[4770.22 --> 4772.22] holy -[4772.22 --> 4773.22] holy -[4773.22 --> 4775.22] set -[4775.22 --> 4776.22] upon -[4776.22 --> 4778.22] for -[4778.22 --> 4779.10] you -[4779.10 --> 4779.22] my -[4779.22 --> 4780.22] master -[4780.76 --> 4782.22] ready -[4782.22 --> 4782.84] to -[4782.84 --> 4783.22] do -[4783.22 --> 4784.22] your -[4784.22 --> 4785.22] will -[4785.22 --> 4792.22] purify -[4792.22 --> 4793.22] my -[4793.22 --> 4794.22] heart -[4794.22 --> 4795.22] cleanse -[4796.44 --> 4796.72] me -[4796.72 --> 4797.22] from -[4797.22 --> 4798.22] within -[4798.22 --> 4800.22] my -[4800.22 --> 4801.22] heart -[4801.22 --> 4802.22] and -[4802.22 --> 4803.22] make me -[4803.22 --> 4804.22] holy -[4804.22 --> 4805.22] purify -[4805.22 --> 4806.22] my -[4806.22 --> 4807.22] heart -[4807.22 --> 4808.22] cleanse -[4808.22 --> 4809.22] me -[4809.22 --> 4810.22] from -[4810.22 --> 4811.22] my -[4811.22 --> 4812.22] sin -[4812.22 --> 4813.22] deep -[4813.22 --> 4815.22] within -[4815.22 --> 4817.22] refine -[4817.22 --> 4818.22] and -[4818.22 --> 4819.22] spine -[4819.22 --> 4821.22] my -[4821.22 --> 4823.22] heart's -[4823.22 --> 4824.22] one -[4824.22 --> 4825.22] desire -[4825.22 --> 4827.22] is -[4827.22 --> 4828.22] to -[4828.22 --> 4829.22] be -[4829.22 --> 4831.22] holy -[4831.22 --> 4833.22] set -[4833.22 --> 4835.22] apart -[4835.22 --> 4836.22] for -[4836.22 --> 4837.22] you -[4837.22 --> 4838.22] Lord -[4838.22 --> 4839.22] I -[4839.22 --> 4840.22] choose -[4840.22 --> 4841.22] to -[4841.22 --> 4842.22] be -[4842.22 --> 4843.22] holy -[4843.22 --> 4844.22] set -[4844.22 --> 4846.22] apart -[4846.22 --> 4847.22] for -[4847.22 --> 4848.22] you -[4848.22 --> 4849.22] my -[4849.22 --> 4850.22] master -[4850.22 --> 4851.22] ready -[4851.22 --> 4852.22] to -[4852.22 --> 4853.22] ready -[4853.22 --> 4854.22] to -[4854.22 --> 4855.22] do -[4855.22 --> 4856.22] your -[4856.22 --> 4857.22] will -[4857.22 --> 4870.22] as -[4870.22 --> 4871.22] you go -[4871.22 --> 4872.22] this week -[4872.22 --> 4873.22] remember -[4873.22 --> 4874.22] that you go -[4874.22 --> 4875.22] as those -[4875.22 --> 4876.22] consecrated -[4876.22 --> 4877.22] for divine -[4877.22 --> 4878.22] purpose -[4878.22 --> 4879.22] remember that -[4879.22 --> 4880.22] with God -[4880.22 --> 4881.22] who goes -[4881.22 --> 4882.22] in you and -[4882.22 --> 4883.22] with you in -[4883.22 --> 4884.22] the power of the -[4884.22 --> 4885.22] spirit and who -[4885.22 --> 4886.22] goes before you -[4886.22 --> 4887.22] to prepare away from -[4887.22 --> 4888.22] you and so receive -[4888.22 --> 4889.22] the blessing of -[4889.22 --> 4890.22] our God knowing -[4890.22 --> 4892.22] that you are sent -[4892.22 --> 4894.22] out today commissioned -[4894.22 --> 4895.22] by him -[4896.22 --> 4897.22] to serve the world -[4897.22 --> 4898.22] receive God's -[4898.22 --> 4899.22] blessing -[4900.22 --> 4902.22] God go before you -[4902.22 --> 4903.22] to lead you -[4904.22 --> 4905.22] God go behind you -[4905.22 --> 4906.22] to protect you -[4906.22 --> 4907.22] God go beneath you -[4907.22 --> 4908.22] God go beneath you -[4908.22 --> 4909.22] to support you -[4909.22 --> 4910.22] and God go beside you -[4910.22 --> 4911.22] to befriend you -[4911.22 --> 4913.22] do not be afraid -[4913.22 --> 4915.22] let the blessing of God -[4915.22 --> 4916.22] come upon you today -[4916.22 --> 4918.22] do not be afraid -[4918.22 --> 4920.22] but go in peace -[4920.22 --> 4922.22] to love and serve the Lord -[4923.22 --> 4924.22] Amen -[4937.22 --> 4940.22] may our homes be filled -[4940.22 --> 4941.22] with dancing -[4941.22 --> 4944.22] may our streams be filled -[4944.22 --> 4945.22] with joy -[4945.22 --> 4947.22] may our streams be filled -[4947.22 --> 4949.22] with joy -[4949.22 --> 4952.22] may our streams be filled -[4952.22 --> 4954.22] with joy -[4954.22 --> 4958.22] may it just as proud of Jesus -[4958.22 --> 4961.22] may it just as proud of Jesus -[4961.22 --> 4962.22] may our streams be filled -[4965.22 --> 4969.22] as the people turn and pray -[4969.22 --> 4975.22] from the mountain to the valley -[4975.22 --> 4978.22] to the valley -[4978.22 --> 4981.22] hear our praises -[4981.22 --> 4986.22] cry to you -[4986.22 --> 4990.22] from the heavens -[4990.22 --> 4994.22] to the nations -[4994.22 --> 4996.22] hear our singing -[4996.22 --> 4997.22] singing -[4997.22 --> 4999.22] fill the air -[4999.22 --> 5003.22] may your light shine in the darkness -[5003.22 --> 5011.22] as we walk before the cross -[5011.22 --> 5018.22] may your glory hail the whole earth -[5018.22 --> 5023.22] may your glory hail the whole earth -[5024.22 --> 5028.22] may your glory hail the whole earth -[5028.22 --> 5031.22] may your glory hail the whole earth -[5036.22 --> 5040.22] as the water o'er the sea -[5042.22 --> 5045.22] from the mountains -[5045.22 --> 5048.22] to the valley -[5049.22 --> 5054.22] hear our praises -[5054.22 --> 5056.22] to you -[5056.22 --> 5060.22] from the heavens -[5060.22 --> 5064.22] to the nations -[5064.22 --> 5068.22] hear our singing -[5068.22 --> 5072.22] fill the air -[5072.22 --> 5076.22] from the mountain -[5076.22 --> 5080.22] to the valley -[5080.22 --> 5084.22] hear our praises -[5084.22 --> 5088.22] rise to you -[5088.22 --> 5092.22] from the heavens -[5092.22 --> 5096.22] to the nations -[5096.22 --> 5100.22] hear our singing -[5100.22 --> 5104.22] fill the air -[5104.22 --> 5107.22] sing -[5107.22 --> 5110.22] to the heavens -[5110.22 --> 5112.22] to the heavens -[5112.22 --> 5114.22] sing -[5114.22 --> 5116.22] sing -[5116.22 --> 5118.22] sing -[5118.22 --> 5120.22] sing -[5120.22 --> 5122.22] sing -[5122.22 --> 5124.22] sing -[5124.22 --> 5126.22] sing -[5126.22 --> 5156.20] Thank you. -[5156.22 --> 5186.20] Thank you. -[5186.22 --> 5216.20] Thank you. -[5216.22 --> 5218.22] Thank you. -[5246.22 --> 5248.22] Thank you. -[5276.22 --> 5278.22] Thank you. -[5306.22 --> 5308.22] Thank you. -[5336.22 --> 5338.22] Thank you. -[5366.22 --> 5368.22] Thank you. -[5396.22 --> 5398.22] Thank you. -[5426.22 --> 5428.22] Thank you. -[5456.22 --> 5458.22] Thank you. -[5486.22 --> 5488.22] Thank you. -[5516.22 --> 5518.22] Thank you. -[5546.22 --> 5548.22] Thank you. -[5576.22 --> 5578.22] Thank you. -[5578.22 --> 5580.22] Thank you. -[5580.22 --> 5582.22] Thank you. -[5582.22 --> 5584.22] Thank you. -[5584.22 --> 5586.22] Thank you. -[5586.22 --> 5588.22] You're welcome. -[5588.22 --> 5590.22] You're welcome. -[5590.22 --> 5620.20] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, February 2, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, February 2, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a204790740466d2f4bd646f4b95101ad66efff4f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, February 2, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,92 +0,0 @@ -• Christ's love and redemption -• Inner peace and strength in times of need -• The speaker's personal journey with pain and suffering -• Zion City as a metaphor for spiritual treasure -• Victory over fear and hope in Christ -• Announcements from Emanuel Church, including the Mexico mission and membership project -• Announcements about dinner and childcare for Mexico mission -• Details on Neufelds fundraiser, including payment method change and pickup instructions -• Information on storing food orders overnight at church (not allowed) -• Option to order from general ministry funds instead of youth-led fundraisers -• Psalm 95 is referenced and discussed -• The importance of worshiping God and acknowledging his greatness -• The value of prayer and confession, particularly in times of national crisis or division -• A prayer from "Lift Up Your Hearts" (Song 662) is read, addressing themes such as greed, prejudice, fear, and the need for healing and forgiveness. -• Worship song with repeated lyrics and melody -• Prayers and invocations throughout the service -• Offering collection for Union Gospel Mission -• Deacon Yap gives announcement about organization and offering options -• Collection and thank-yous to congregants for their offerings -• Introduction to Mr. Mike and welcoming children -• Explanation of the theme "Jesus is" in children's worship time -• Discussion about tables and family dinners -• Analogy between tables and God's love: being welcome and included regardless of appearances or actions -• Discussion of someone wearing a basket on their head and garland being unwelcome at dinner -• Upcoming communion service next Sunday -• Church Council meeting summary, including: - + Discerning Kevin Lobert's calling as Minister of the Word - + Exceeding expenses and having a surplus in finances - + Need for volunteer to run church library - + Update on Pastor Chris and others -• Prayer led by Ken (previously mistaken as Kevin) -• Praising God's worthiness -• Seeking God's will in difficult times -• Lifting up those struggling with sickness, mourning, and addictions -• Praying for healing and comfort for specific individuals (Tony Vanderweel, Arnie Mellison, Doug Kendon, Tanya Tessemaker) -• Asking for God's peace and assurance in a world filled with conflict, hunger, and devastation -• Requesting God's guidance and strength to overcome struggles, including depression, addictions, and physical ailments -• Praying for the church to be used as God's hands and feet to bring healing and the gospel to those in need -• Pastor Chris is experienced in church polity and order -• The speaker will be sharing God's Word with the congregation of Langley Emanuel CRC -• The passage from 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:5 teaches how Christians should face persecutions -• Paul was separated from the believers in Thessalonica due to persecution -• Timothy was sent to strengthen and encourage the believers in their faith -• Paul and Silas were punished by the Thessalonica authorities for preaching about Jesus -• The punishment led to their forced departure from Thessalonica at night -• Paul considered himself a spiritual parent to the Thessalonians, showing pastoral care in his letters -• The new converts faced persecution after joining Paul and Silas, leading to a forced separation -• The city of Thessalonica was loyal to Caesar and had an imperial cult, making a movement towards Jesus as Lord and Savior problematic for the authorities -• Accusations against Paul and Silas, Jason, and other believers in Thessalonica -• Persecution by city authorities due to alleged disobedience to Caesar's decrees -• Financial and social impact of persecution on believers -• Christian worldview at odds with modern culture and societal norms -• Tectonic shifts in Western culture: - • Movement from majority to minority (cognitive minority) - • Shift from place of honor to place of shame for Christian faith -• Shift from tolerance to rising hostility towards Christians -• Christians seen as a threat to secularism and its vision of human flourishing -• Labeling of Christians as bigots, haters, and homophobes in Western society -• Teaching to live with acceptance of trials and persecution as followers of Jesus -• Suffering and opposition for faith is not unusual for followers of Jesus -• Persecution was a part of the call to take up the cross and follow after Jesus throughout history -• Suffering as participation in Christ's sufferings -• Rejoicing in trials and suffering for Christ's name -• Sharing in Christ's glory through suffering -• Connection between suffering and Christ's return -• Perseverance, character, and hope produced by suffering -• Assurance of not being alone in persecution -• The Thessalonian church faced persecution from their own people, which led to Paul's concern for their faith. -• Paul and Silas sent Timothy to strengthen the Thessalonian church in their faith during a time of trial. -• Paul worries that Satan may have tempted them away from faith through persecution. -• The trials they face can move them away from following Christ and His teachings. -• Similar tectonic shifts in modern culture can also tempt people to walk away from their faith. -• Peer pressure, social norms, and cultural practices can make it easy for Satan to entice people away from their faith. -• Christians need to be connected to their church community during times of trial. -• Identity in Christ and God's work in us -• Accountability and responsibility to one another as believers -• Encouraging and spurring one another on towards love and good deeds -• Waiting for the day of Christ's return and gathering as God's people -• Trials and persecution as part of our destiny as followers of Jesus -• The church as a community of faith that encourages and supports each other -• Jesus' presence with us through his spirit, even in trials -• The importance of community and regular gathering -• Faith in God's presence and power in everyday life -• Waiting for Jesus' return and the establishment of His kingdom -• Prayer for strength, faithfulness, and perseverance -• Reference to biblical creation and the promise of a holy city -• Themes of walking by faith, seeing the hand of God, and standing as children of the promise -• Blessing from God's Father and Son, with emphasis on strengthening hearts in trial and increasing love for one another. -• Praise and worship of God in various forms -• Repetition of phrases such as "Praise God" and "Amen" -• References to the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Ghost) -• Expressions of gratitude with repeated mentions of "Thank you" \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, February 2, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, February 2, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b37a22b65a10013b32ba97cd1510f04f3c7a035f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, February 2, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1492 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 13.80] I fall, His love is sure, for Christ has paid for every failing, I am here forevermore. -[13.80 --> 14.80] Amen. -[43.80 --> 53.54] But mine is peace that flows from heaven, and the strength in times of need. -[53.54 --> 63.54] I know my pain will not be wasted, Christ completes His work in me. -[73.80 --> 83.68] Mine are days here as a stranger, pilgrim on a narrow way. -[83.68 --> 93.68] One with Christ I will encounter, I'm in hatred for His name. -[94.10 --> 103.48] But mine is armor for this battle, strong enough to last a war. -[103.80 --> 113.46] And He has said, He will deliver safely to the golden shore. -[113.46 --> 123.54] And mine are keys to Zion City, where beside the King I walk. -[123.92 --> 133.46] For there my heart has found its treasure, Christ is mine forevermore. -[133.80 --> 158.68] Come rejoice now, O my soul. -[158.68 --> 163.68] For His love is my reward. -[163.68 --> 168.62] Fear is gone and hope is sure. -[168.62 --> 173.74] Christ is mine forevermore. -[173.74 --> 178.74] Come rejoice now, O my soul. -[178.74 --> 179.74] For His love is my reward. -[179.74 --> 183.74] For His love is my reward. -[183.74 --> 184.74] Fear is gone and hope is sure. -[184.74 --> 185.74] Fear is gone and hope is sure. -[185.74 --> 186.74] Christ is mine forevermore. -[186.74 --> 187.74] Come rejoice now, O my soul. -[187.74 --> 188.74] Come rejoice now, O my soul. -[188.74 --> 190.74] For His love is my reward. -[190.74 --> 192.74] Fear is gone and hope is sure. -[192.74 --> 193.74] Christ is mine forevermore. -[193.74 --> 194.74] Come rejoice now, O my soul. -[194.74 --> 195.74] Come rejoice now, O my soul. -[195.74 --> 197.74] Come rejoice now, O my soul. -[197.74 --> 199.74] For His love is my reward. -[199.74 --> 200.74] Fear is gone and hope is my reward. -[200.74 --> 201.74] For His love is my reward. -[201.74 --> 206.74] Fear is gone and hope is sure. -[206.74 --> 207.74] Christ is mine forevermore. -[207.74 --> 208.74] Christ is mine forevermore. -[208.74 --> 213.74] Christ is mine forevermore. -[213.74 --> 215.74] And my love leaves to Zion City, where beside the King I walk. -[215.74 --> 230.74] For there my heart has found its treasure. -[230.74 --> 235.74] Christ is mine forevermore. -[235.74 --> 237.74] Christ is mine forevermore. -[237.74 --> 243.02] Christ is mine forevermore. -[243.02 --> 244.86] Christ is mine forevermore. -[265.74 --> 295.72] Thank you. -[295.74 --> 325.72] Thank you. -[325.74 --> 327.74] Thank you. -[355.74 --> 357.74] Thank you. -[385.74 --> 387.74] Thank you. -[415.74 --> 417.74] Thank you. -[445.74 --> 447.74] Thank you. -[475.74 --> 477.74] Thank you. -[477.74 --> 479.74] Thank you. -[479.74 --> 481.74] Thank you. -[481.74 --> 483.74] Thank you. -[483.74 --> 485.74] Thank you. -[485.74 --> 487.74] Thank you. -[487.74 --> 489.74] Thank you. -[490.56 --> 491.74] Thank you. -[495.74 --> 497.74] Thank you. -[497.74 --> 498.20] Thank you. -[499.74 --> 501.74] Thank you. -[501.74 --> 511.74] The roaring lion declared the grave as no claim on me. -[513.08 --> 518.08] Jesus, yours is the victory. -[520.90 --> 525.74] Oh, hallelujah. -[525.74 --> 530.16] Praise the one who set me free. -[530.16 --> 532.16] Hallelujah. -[533.84 --> 536.78] Today's lost is great for me. -[537.08 --> 540.16] You have broken every chain. -[540.54 --> 542.34] This now makes sense. -[545.06 --> 546.46] Good morning, everyone. -[547.62 --> 548.62] Good morning. -[549.34 --> 549.92] Good to hear you. -[550.40 --> 555.02] Welcome to Emanuel Church this morning on this beautiful snowy Sunday morning. -[555.16 --> 557.64] To those of us that brave the weather, it's good to see you all here. -[557.64 --> 561.90] And it's good to be here together to worship our Lord this morning. -[563.06 --> 564.26] I'm Ken Hoguing. -[564.38 --> 566.06] I'm an elder here at Emanuel Church. -[566.64 --> 575.78] And just as we're opening up before the service starts here, I'd like to just check if anyone had any announcements that they wanted to make. -[575.78 --> 578.30] Not seeing anyone running up here. -[578.36 --> 578.50] Okay. -[578.84 --> 579.92] I will make a couple. -[580.16 --> 580.78] I'm just... -[581.94 --> 582.44] Oh, hey. -[582.52 --> 582.98] We got Brandon. -[583.10 --> 583.30] Excellent. -[583.40 --> 585.78] I was just going to make an announcement on his behalf, but... -[586.78 --> 587.18] Okay. -[587.34 --> 590.16] I'll go through a couple other things as Brandon's making his way up here. -[590.16 --> 597.72] So, I'm sure he will talk about the Mexico mission and some upcoming things with that. -[598.12 --> 607.90] There is the membership project going on where we're collecting information and contact and just updating the database of information about each of our members in the church. -[607.90 --> 615.16] So, please check the e-bulletin for the link or the QR code to get into that and to fill in your entry. -[615.54 --> 619.34] If you need any help with that, reach out to the church office and they'll be happy to help. -[620.90 --> 623.90] Coldest Night of the Year is coming up on February 22nd. -[624.68 --> 627.96] Something our church has always participated in quite strongly. -[627.96 --> 632.96] So, check out the e-bulletin or you can probably talk to Nikki Lobert for information about that. -[634.02 --> 637.96] And there is a youth coffee today at... -[638.48 --> 639.58] Let's see. -[639.68 --> 640.92] That would be at Trudy Baumann's place. -[641.54 --> 647.50] And information was emailed about that also in the e-bulletin if anyone's looking for details. -[648.86 --> 650.42] I think that's it. -[650.50 --> 652.72] If there's anything else you want to know about, check out the e-bulletin. -[652.80 --> 653.56] There's lots of stuff in there. -[653.64 --> 655.64] That's all I've got going for me right now as well. -[655.64 --> 658.26] So, I'll turn it over to Brandon to talk about the Mexico mission. -[659.70 --> 661.32] Yeah, just two announcements for Mexico. -[661.68 --> 662.62] One is, yeah, the dinner. -[662.78 --> 663.50] Reminder for that. -[663.76 --> 667.32] The sign-up has gone out in the e-bulletin and the midweek memo. -[667.98 --> 670.62] So, you sign up there or you can sign up at the back on the window there. -[670.72 --> 672.74] There's a paper sign-up for those who prefer that. -[673.54 --> 675.60] It's beef brisket, smoked brisket, tacos. -[676.42 --> 681.18] Doors open 530 and $30 a person, $15 for a kid under 12. -[681.18 --> 686.36] And then for other kids or adults that you parents don't want to watch, we have childcare by donation as well. -[686.94 --> 687.72] So, that's the first one. -[687.84 --> 688.62] Second one as well. -[688.72 --> 690.70] Today we'll start the Neufelds fundraiser. -[691.28 --> 695.88] I'll be sending out all the info to the youth and leaders that they can send to you today just after church. -[697.10 --> 699.90] Just a couple things on that that aren't clear. -[700.00 --> 700.30] Hey, hey. -[700.92 --> 701.24] Founder. -[701.24 --> 708.12] A couple things for that one that's changed this year is, number one, you have to pay ahead of time. -[708.68 --> 710.50] It used to be that you paid your youth and whatnot. -[710.96 --> 712.98] Now, Neufelds is collecting all the payment for us. -[713.52 --> 718.14] That means when you do your order at the end, it'll go do a little confirmation screen and you pay by visa there. -[718.76 --> 719.98] It just makes it easier for us. -[720.04 --> 721.14] It makes it easier for Neufelds. -[721.18 --> 722.66] Nobody's chasing funds and all that. -[722.92 --> 724.52] Your order will not go through if you don't pay. -[724.52 --> 728.94] So, if you show up to pick it up and there's no order, it means you didn't pay. -[729.84 --> 731.84] But it'll do all that for you. -[732.38 --> 734.70] And the second one is Neufelds also has changed. -[735.10 --> 736.98] Our youth used to deliver it to you guys. -[738.06 --> 740.34] Neufelds has changed that for us, I guess. -[740.46 --> 742.26] They don't want that. -[742.34 --> 745.42] They want you guys to actually come and pick it up from the truck here. -[746.20 --> 750.78] So, when you buy it, they give you an email and all that that says, hey, 4.30, come pick it up. -[750.78 --> 754.94] But maybe don't show up quite at 4.30, even though they say to, just because that's what the truck's setting up. -[755.44 --> 760.16] Maybe, let's say, like 5 o'clock or so, you can come pick up your food. -[760.30 --> 762.66] 4.45, 5 o'clock would be awesome. -[762.82 --> 767.26] So, the pickup is February 28th, and the ordering will go up until basically then. -[768.42 --> 768.66] And, yeah. -[768.92 --> 774.28] The last thing is, too, I know a couple people also would prefer, like, oh, can we store it in the fridge overnight? -[774.28 --> 777.44] The church does not have large fridges, nor do they always work great. -[777.56 --> 779.74] So, we cannot store your Neufelds order here. -[780.78 --> 783.60] But that's just kind of going to be a thing going forward for that. -[784.88 --> 788.58] And then the last thing with that, too, I guess it's last, last, last thing. -[790.42 --> 797.54] There's also, for those of you that I know some of you guys are like, oh, the youth never contacted me or the leaders never contacted me, but I'd like to order and support the trip. -[798.06 --> 801.76] If you go to the sign-up, there is a little option for General Pot, it's called. -[801.76 --> 810.06] And that goes to just our generic, our general ministry funds, like our building in Mexico, some of the VBS, the evangelism, things like that. -[810.06 --> 814.54] All of that is fundraised separately from the kids as just a general pot. -[815.04 --> 816.44] So, you can order from that as well. -[816.98 --> 821.08] And what we'll do is we're going to give the kids, like, three, four days to kind of contact you guys first. -[821.44 --> 822.98] And then we'll send it out in the midweek memo. -[823.36 --> 826.30] And if you haven't been contacted, you're going to feel free to order from the general pot. -[826.30 --> 831.58] Or if you prefer to, if you like one of the kids really a lot but they didn't contact you, you can order from them as well. -[831.66 --> 832.60] Just give them a heads up. -[832.68 --> 834.94] Otherwise, they may not know you ordered from them. -[835.12 --> 837.58] So, yeah, that's basically it for Mexico. -[839.80 --> 840.44] Thank you, Brandon. -[841.22 --> 845.92] So, this morning we have a guest pastor that we're privileged to have lead us in worship this morning. -[846.22 --> 849.66] I'd like to introduce Sean Jung from New Life CRC. -[849.66 --> 851.84] He will be leading us in worship this morning. -[852.20 --> 854.82] And we're glad to hear from you and to worship with you, Sean. -[854.96 --> 855.28] Welcome. -[856.30 --> 863.12] Good morning. -[863.90 --> 866.84] I invite you to stand for God's greeting this morning. -[868.68 --> 873.44] God's greeting comes to us from 2 Thessalonians 1, verse 2. -[874.48 --> 884.18] People of the triune God, grace and peace to you from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ and all God's people said, Amen. -[884.18 --> 887.92] As God has greeted us, let us also greet one another. -[887.92 --> 888.00] Amen. -[888.00 --> 888.02] As God has greeted us, let us also greet one another. -[888.02 --> 896.68] Well, thank you for their spirit. -[899.06 --> 899.52] Amen. -[899.52 --> 903.58] Good morning. -[903.66 --> 905.82] Merry Christmas. -[905.82 --> 906.20] Mr. Johnson. -[906.20 --> 908.02] I wish to answer your question. -[908.82 --> 910.92] How did we plan to address it? -[910.92 --> 928.76] Psalm 95 says, -[928.76 --> 931.24] Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord. -[931.56 --> 933.86] Let us shout aloud to the rock of our salvation. -[934.68 --> 936.60] Let us come before him with thanksgiving -[936.60 --> 939.52] and extol him with music and song. -[939.52 --> 942.64] For the Lord is the great God, -[943.00 --> 945.36] the great King above all gods. -[945.88 --> 948.52] In his hands are the depths of the earth -[948.52 --> 950.50] and the mountain peaks belong to him. -[951.14 --> 953.44] The sea is his for he made it. -[953.98 --> 956.42] His hands formed the dry land. -[957.06 --> 958.70] Come, let us bow down in worship. -[959.32 --> 961.44] Let us kneel before the Lord our maker -[961.44 --> 963.18] for he is our God. -[969.52 --> 978.52] Come, let us worship and bow down. -[978.52 --> 984.08] Let us kneel before the Lord our God, our maker. -[984.08 --> 992.50] Come, let us worship and bow down. -[993.08 --> 998.06] Let us kneel before the Lord our God, our maker. -[1000.20 --> 1004.80] Come, let us worship and bow down. -[1004.80 --> 1010.42] Let us kneel before the Lord our God, our maker. -[1011.80 --> 1016.80] For he is our God. -[1016.80 --> 1023.26] And we are the people of his pasture. -[1023.26 --> 1025.26] And we are the people of his hand. -[1025.26 --> 1027.26] And we are the people of his hand. -[1027.26 --> 1029.26] And we are the people of his hand. -[1029.26 --> 1035.26] Let us kneel before the Lord our God, our maker. -[1035.26 --> 1041.26] Come, let us worship and bow down. -[1041.26 --> 1048.26] Let us kneel before the Lord our God, our maker. -[1048.26 --> 1055.26] Come, let us worship and bow down. -[1055.26 --> 1061.26] Let us kneel before the Lord our God, our maker. -[1061.26 --> 1067.26] For he is our God. -[1067.26 --> 1073.26] And we are the people of his pasture. -[1073.26 --> 1088.26] And we are the people of his pasture. -[1088.26 --> 1090.26] And the sheep of his hand. -[1090.26 --> 1095.26] Just the sheep of his hand. -[1095.26 --> 1097.10] God. -[1125.26 --> 1127.26] God. -[1155.26 --> 1157.26] God. -[1185.26 --> 1187.26] God. -[1215.26 --> 1217.26] God. -[1245.26 --> 1247.26] God. -[1275.26 --> 1279.26] Your name is the highest. -[1279.26 --> 1282.26] Your name is the greatest. -[1282.26 --> 1288.26] Your name stands above all. -[1288.26 --> 1294.26] All flows and dominions, all bouts and positions. -[1294.26 --> 1299.26] Your name stands above all. -[1299.26 --> 1302.26] And the angels cry. -[1302.26 --> 1308.26] Holy of the ancient times. -[1308.26 --> 1314.26] Holy, you are lifted high. -[1314.26 --> 1323.26] Holy, holy forever. -[1323.26 --> 1327.26] May your people sing. -[1327.26 --> 1333.26] Holy, to the King of King. -[1333.26 --> 1339.26] Holy, you will always be. -[1339.26 --> 1345.26] Holy, holy forever. -[1345.26 --> 1351.26] You will always be. -[1351.26 --> 1355.26] Holy, holy forever. -[1355.26 --> 1357.26] You will always be. -[1357.26 --> 1359.26] Holy, holy forever. -[1359.26 --> 1361.26] Holy, holy forever. -[1361.26 --> 1365.26] Holy, holy forever. -[1365.26 --> 1372.26] Please join me in a prayer of confession as we pray the words of, oh, and you can sit down. -[1372.26 --> 1373.26] Thank you. -[1373.26 --> 1379.26] As we pray the words of Song 662 in the red hymn, Lift Up Your Hearts. -[1379.26 --> 1384.26] This song is titled, In an Age of Twisted Values. -[1384.26 --> 1385.26] Let's pray. -[1385.26 --> 1393.26] Heavenly Father, in an age of twisted values, we have lost the truth we need. -[1393.26 --> 1398.26] In sophisticated language, we have justified our greed. -[1398.26 --> 1403.26] By our struggle for possessions, we have robbed the poor and weak. -[1403.26 --> 1406.26] Hear our cry and heal our nation. -[1406.26 --> 1409.26] Your forgiveness, Lord, we seek. -[1409.26 --> 1414.26] We have built discrimination on our prejudice and fear. -[1414.26 --> 1419.26] Hatred swiftly turns to cruelty if we hold resentment dear. -[1419.26 --> 1427.26] For communities divided by the walls of class and race, hear our cry and heal our nation. -[1427.26 --> 1432.26] Show us, Lord, your love and grace. -[1432.26 --> 1437.26] When our families are broken, when our homes are full of strife, -[1437.26 --> 1442.26] when our children are bewildered, when they lose their way in life. -[1442.26 --> 1448.26] When we fail to give the aged all the care we know we should. -[1448.26 --> 1454.26] Hear our cry and heal our nation with your tender fatherhood. -[1454.26 --> 1459.26] We who hear your words so often choose so rarely to obey. -[1459.26 --> 1464.26] Turn us from your willful blood, from our willful blindness. -[1464.26 --> 1466.26] Give us truth to light our way. -[1466.26 --> 1472.26] In the power of your spirit, come to cleanse us, make us new. -[1472.26 --> 1475.26] Hear our cry and heal our nation. -[1475.26 --> 1478.26] Till our nation honors you. -[1478.26 --> 1481.26] In Jesus name we pray. Amen. -[1481.26 --> 1484.26] Please rise as you are able. -[1484.26 --> 1491.26] As we sing of the insurance of forgiveness we have because of God's amazing love for us. -[1491.26 --> 1492.26] Again. -[1492.26 --> 1495.22] дерев it earthed -[1503.26 --> 1510.26] As we understand the presence of their委員 Coast. -[1510.26 --> 1512.26] If. -[1512.26 --> 1524.18] I'm forgiven because you are forsaken -[1524.18 --> 1531.00] I'm accepted you were the dead -[1531.00 --> 1537.46] I'm alive and well your spirit is in me -[1537.46 --> 1541.92] Because you died and rose again -[1541.92 --> 1550.04] I'm forgiven because you were forsaken -[1550.04 --> 1557.48] I'm accepted you were the dead -[1557.48 --> 1563.32] I'm alive and well your spirit is in me -[1563.32 --> 1568.28] Because you died and rose again -[1568.28 --> 1576.40] Waste of all I can be -[1576.40 --> 1582.40] That you my King would die for me -[1582.40 --> 1589.40] Waste of all I know is true -[1589.40 --> 1594.52] It's my joy to honor you -[1594.52 --> 1597.52] In all I do -[1597.52 --> 1601.64] I honor you -[1601.64 --> 1608.76] I'm forgiven because you were forsaken -[1608.76 --> 1615.64] I'm accepted you were the dead -[1615.64 --> 1621.64] I'm alive and well your spirit is in me -[1621.64 --> 1627.76] Because you died and rose again -[1627.76 --> 1635.88] Waste of all I can be -[1635.88 --> 1642.00] That you my King would die for me -[1642.00 --> 1647.84] Waste of all I know is true -[1647.84 --> 1653.96] It's my joy to honor you -[1653.96 --> 1655.96] In all I do -[1655.96 --> 1662.08] I honor you -[1662.08 --> 1666.08] You are my King -[1666.08 --> 1672.08] You are my King -[1672.08 --> 1680.20] Jesus you are my King -[1680.20 --> 1686.20] Jesus you are my King -[1686.20 --> 1692.32] Waste of all I know is true -[1692.32 --> 1694.32] I'm alive and well your spirit is in me -[1694.32 --> 1695.44] You are my King -[1695.44 --> 1696.32] To my King -[1696.32 --> 1700.44] I'm alive and well your spirit is in me -[1700.44 --> 1706.56] Waste of all I know is true -[1706.56 --> 1712.06] It's my joy to honor you -[1712.06 --> 1715.06] In all I do -[1715.06 --> 1718.44] I honor you -[1718.44 --> 1722.02] In all I do -[1722.02 --> 1725.44] I honor you -[1730.44 --> 1756.24] I love you Lord -[1756.24 --> 1762.00] Oh your mercy never fails me -[1762.00 --> 1765.06] All my days -[1765.06 --> 1768.98] I've been held in your hands -[1768.98 --> 1772.58] From the moment that I wake up -[1772.58 --> 1776.00] Until I lay my hand -[1776.00 --> 1781.86] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1781.86 --> 1786.42] All my life -[1786.42 --> 1788.80] All my life you have been faithful -[1788.80 --> 1797.94] All my life you have been so, so good -[1797.94 --> 1802.40] The very breath that I am able -[1802.40 --> 1808.86] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1808.86 --> 1815.68] I love your voice -[1815.68 --> 1820.46] You have led me through the fire -[1820.46 --> 1823.62] The darkest night -[1823.62 --> 1827.14] You were close like no other -[1827.14 --> 1830.62] I know you as a father -[1830.62 --> 1834.44] I know you as a friend -[1834.44 --> 1835.44] I know you as a friend -[1835.44 --> 1839.44] I have lived in the goodness of God -[1839.44 --> 1844.26] All my life you have been faithful -[1844.26 --> 1848.26] All my life you have been faithful -[1848.26 --> 1855.26] All my life you have been so, so good -[1855.26 --> 1861.26] Every breath that I am able -[1861.26 --> 1868.08] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1868.08 --> 1872.80] Your goodness is running out -[1872.80 --> 1875.80] It's running out to me -[1875.80 --> 1879.40] Your goodness is running out -[1879.40 --> 1882.36] It's running out to me -[1882.36 --> 1884.34] My life made down -[1884.34 --> 1886.04] It's a red word now -[1886.04 --> 1888.14] To give you everything -[1888.14 --> 1892.94] your goodness is running out -[1892.94 --> 1896.58] It's running out to me -[1896.68 --> 1898.08] Your goodness is running out -[1898.08 --> 1907.78] It's running out to me -[1907.78 --> 1914.98] My life laid down, suspended now, I give you everything. -[1916.58 --> 1922.78] Your goodness is running out, it's running out to me. -[1925.36 --> 1929.08] Oh, my life you have been faithful. -[1931.18 --> 1937.08] Oh, my life you have been so, so good. -[1937.78 --> 1948.98] With every breath that I am able, I will sing of the goodness of God. -[1950.18 --> 1955.62] I will sing of the goodness of God. -[1967.78 --> 1972.74] Good morning. -[1973.16 --> 1974.20] My name is Yap. -[1974.28 --> 1975.76] I'm a deacon here at Langley-Emmanuel. -[1976.50 --> 1980.76] This morning's offering will be for Union Gospel Mission. -[1980.76 --> 1987.22] They are a faith-based organization that has been around for over 80 years, supporting -[1987.22 --> 1992.38] people as they rebuild their lives through providing meals, supportive housing, addiction, -[1992.60 --> 1993.46] recovery, and more. -[1994.52 --> 1995.96] Please give as you're able. -[1996.20 --> 2000.00] If you want to give to the general budget, you can use the envelopes that are in the seats -[2000.00 --> 2000.46] in front of you. -[2000.46 --> 2002.02] Thank you. -[2002.02 --> 2002.10] Thank you. -[2002.10 --> 2032.08] Thank you. -[2032.10 --> 2062.08] Thank you. -[2062.10 --> 2064.10] Thank you. -[2092.10 --> 2094.10] Thank you. -[2122.10 --> 2124.10] Thank you. -[2152.10 --> 2154.10] Thank you. -[2182.10 --> 2184.10] Thank you. -[2212.10 --> 2214.10] Thank you. -[2214.10 --> 2216.10] Thank you. -[2216.10 --> 2218.10] Thank you. -[2218.10 --> 2220.10] Thank you. -[2220.10 --> 2222.10] Thank you. -[2222.10 --> 2224.10] Thank you. -[2224.10 --> 2226.10] Thank you. -[2226.10 --> 2228.10] Thank you. -[2228.10 --> 2230.10] Thank you. -[2230.10 --> 2232.10] Thank you. -[2232.10 --> 2235.88] My Savior forever -[2235.88 --> 2240.38] He sought me and fought me -[2240.38 --> 2244.24] With His redeeming blood -[2244.24 --> 2248.18] He loved me ere I knew Him -[2248.18 --> 2252.04] And all my love is to Him -[2252.04 --> 2255.68] He plunged me to victory -[2255.68 --> 2259.90] Beneath a cleansing flood -[2259.90 --> 2263.84] He loved me ere I knew Him -[2263.84 --> 2267.76] And all my love is to Him -[2267.76 --> 2271.42] He plunged me to victory -[2271.42 --> 2275.32] Beneath a cleansing flood -[2275.32 --> 2284.14] Good morning, my name is Mr. Mike -[2284.14 --> 2286.12] and I would like to welcome all the kids up. -[2286.12 --> 2289.92] We will do a little chat and have a children's blessing -[2289.92 --> 2292.24] and then we'll head to children's worship time. -[2292.94 --> 2294.22] So why don't you guys join me up front. -[2294.32 --> 2295.54] Oh, it's great to see so many. -[2295.66 --> 2298.78] I wasn't sure if the snow would stop a lot of you guys. -[2299.26 --> 2300.78] Exciting, hey, to have so much snow? -[2301.62 --> 2302.62] Oh, don't get too close. -[2302.68 --> 2303.84] I need a little bit of space. -[2304.92 --> 2305.32] Okay. -[2306.34 --> 2308.12] So in children's worship time, -[2308.18 --> 2311.06] do you guys remember what we're talking about? -[2311.06 --> 2315.08] The theme is Jesus is, right? -[2315.30 --> 2317.78] So we're learning all these things about Jesus, -[2318.20 --> 2319.40] His names, -[2319.92 --> 2321.42] all these things about His character -[2321.42 --> 2323.74] that help us know who He is, -[2323.84 --> 2326.30] but it also helps us know who we are, right? -[2326.36 --> 2328.14] Because of who He has made us to be. -[2328.68 --> 2330.66] So I have a question for you guys. -[2331.62 --> 2333.34] We're going to learn a little bit more about Jesus today. -[2333.72 --> 2334.78] Do you guys have tables? -[2335.70 --> 2336.54] Do you have a table? -[2337.04 --> 2339.12] You have like probably more than one table in your house. -[2339.12 --> 2340.60] Do you guys eat dinner at the table? -[2341.04 --> 2341.62] Oh, yeah? -[2344.38 --> 2345.68] You have more than one table? -[2346.94 --> 2348.68] Oh, there's even some inside and outside. -[2349.08 --> 2351.42] And do you guys do like big dinners and stuff? -[2352.06 --> 2352.42] Yeah? -[2352.56 --> 2353.64] Did you have some at Christmas? -[2354.34 --> 2355.66] Or when like there's like your birthday? -[2356.58 --> 2357.36] You have a big table, -[2357.44 --> 2359.32] lots of people come and join you at the table. -[2360.18 --> 2361.92] Is anybody welcome at your table? -[2362.96 --> 2364.64] Could I come for dinner sometime? -[2365.38 --> 2365.60] Yeah? -[2365.84 --> 2367.34] Maybe we'll sign a little sign-up sheet or something? -[2367.34 --> 2373.06] What about if I came to dinner and I had my cell phone with me? -[2373.50 --> 2375.12] And I was always busy on my cell phone. -[2375.18 --> 2376.18] Can I still come for dinner? -[2377.80 --> 2378.10] I know. -[2378.38 --> 2379.20] Could I still come for dinner? -[2379.76 --> 2380.66] You're thinking about it. -[2380.66 --> 2380.84] No? -[2380.98 --> 2381.16] Maybe? -[2381.26 --> 2381.40] Okay. -[2381.68 --> 2382.94] Well, what if I had my cell phone -[2382.94 --> 2387.20] and I decided I had to wear this little Hawaiian lei? -[2387.34 --> 2388.24] Could I still come for dinner? -[2388.90 --> 2389.20] Yeah? -[2389.20 --> 2392.86] What about if I had my lei and my cell phone was beeping -[2392.86 --> 2395.86] and I brought my mints and I'm chewing on my mints -[2395.86 --> 2398.22] and I smell like a mint bush all night? -[2398.54 --> 2399.34] Am I still welcome? -[2399.82 --> 2400.22] Yeah? -[2400.34 --> 2400.74] Oh, okay. -[2400.80 --> 2401.28] Well, that's good. -[2401.66 --> 2402.42] What if I thought, -[2402.48 --> 2404.32] oh, I'm going to jazz myself up -[2404.32 --> 2407.56] and I'm going to wear some Christmas garland. -[2408.84 --> 2410.76] Could I still come for dinner? -[2410.98 --> 2411.18] Yeah. -[2411.18 --> 2412.38] Are you sure? -[2413.00 --> 2413.28] Yeah? -[2413.54 --> 2415.02] I hope the lights work on this thing -[2415.02 --> 2415.72] because that would, -[2415.80 --> 2416.54] oh, they fell out. -[2417.50 --> 2417.88] Darn it. -[2418.04 --> 2418.28] Okay. -[2418.96 --> 2420.22] What about if I thought, -[2420.28 --> 2420.88] oh, I'm going to, -[2421.08 --> 2422.16] I'm going to really jazz myself. -[2422.28 --> 2423.14] I got my cell phone, -[2423.26 --> 2424.10] I got my mints, -[2424.16 --> 2424.98] I'm crunching, -[2425.18 --> 2426.50] I smell like a mint bush, -[2426.84 --> 2427.82] I'm wearing my garland, -[2428.12 --> 2428.94] and then I decided, -[2429.02 --> 2430.90] oh, I'm just going to wear this basket on my head. -[2432.34 --> 2433.86] Am I still welcome at dinner? -[2434.20 --> 2434.52] No. -[2434.74 --> 2435.02] Really? -[2435.22 --> 2435.62] No? -[2435.96 --> 2438.88] It's getting a little crazy. -[2439.88 --> 2441.16] You can't use me. -[2442.04 --> 2444.22] I can't even see what I would be eating. -[2444.68 --> 2444.84] Right? -[2445.46 --> 2447.96] Well, we are going to talk a little bit more today -[2447.96 --> 2451.96] about the big table that God is preparing for us -[2451.96 --> 2456.30] and the table that Jesus ultimately has for all of us. -[2456.38 --> 2456.56] Okay? -[2457.12 --> 2458.20] So we'll talk a little bit more about that -[2458.20 --> 2459.10] in Children's Worship Time. -[2459.82 --> 2460.90] But before we go, -[2461.06 --> 2461.70] let's stand -[2461.70 --> 2464.22] and we'll bless the grown-ups -[2464.22 --> 2465.56] that are going to stay here -[2465.56 --> 2466.62] and listen to the pastor -[2466.62 --> 2469.34] and we will go off to Children's Worship Time. -[2469.34 --> 2470.96] All right. -[2472.08 --> 2474.36] The Lord be with you. -[2474.56 --> 2476.04] And also with you. -[2476.14 --> 2476.40] Okay. -[2476.40 --> 2502.28] Good morning, everyone. -[2502.28 --> 2504.50] Good morning, everyone. -[2504.50 --> 2509.88] Before Ken prays here, I just have a few notes from Council this past week. -[2509.88 --> 2516.82] We had a Council meeting on Tuesday, and just a summary of some of the things we discussed. -[2516.82 --> 2521.34] One of the big points we discussed was our intent and desire to discern the calling of -[2521.34 --> 2525.36] Kevin Lobert as a Minister of the Word, as most of you know. -[2525.36 --> 2530.58] He's been taking school, and he's pretty close to the end of that now, so we need to make -[2530.58 --> 2532.10] some decisions there. -[2532.10 --> 2537.18] So our Council will be, and admin Council will be hosting a roundtable evening sometime -[2537.18 --> 2542.98] in the next few months, and so you'll hear more about that to discuss and discern there. -[2542.98 --> 2549.38] We also had a draft update of our budget from last year versus our giving, and we're very -[2549.38 --> 2553.64] happy to be in a surplus position. -[2553.64 --> 2555.34] We exceeded our expenses last year. -[2555.34 --> 2560.34] We didn't quite meet the budget amount, but we did exceed our expenses, and we have a surplus. -[2560.34 --> 2565.00] In addition, with a lot of rental income the church received last year, we're in a good -[2565.00 --> 2565.42] financial position. -[2565.42 --> 2570.56] So the decision is how to use that money need to be made, and we're very thankful and blessed -[2570.56 --> 2572.22] to be in this position. -[2572.22 --> 2576.88] And thankful to the congregation for all your faithful giving last year. -[2576.88 --> 2581.88] We also had a brief discussion about the future of the church library, so we would like to -[2581.88 --> 2584.88] have a volunteer step up again to run that library. -[2584.88 --> 2591.54] So if anyone feels they can be called to that position, come see a Council member. -[2591.54 --> 2596.54] And we selected delegates for classes, so we had lots of people volunteering for that. -[2596.54 --> 2601.54] And we had an update from Pastor Chris, Kevin, and Josh. -[2601.54 --> 2604.20] And that was what we discussed on Tuesday. -[2604.20 --> 2606.20] Thanks, and I'll add it to Kevin. -[2606.20 --> 2607.20] Or, not to Kevin. -[2607.20 --> 2608.20] Ken. -[2608.20 --> 2609.20] Ken. -[2609.20 --> 2611.20] My name is Ken, not Kevin. -[2611.20 --> 2614.20] And yeah, I'll be leading us in prayer this morning. -[2614.20 --> 2619.36] And before we pray, I just want to mention too that next week Sunday we will be partaking -[2619.36 --> 2622.58] in communion, having Lord's Supper together. -[2622.58 --> 2629.88] And so whether we're in times of joy or times of hurting or wherever we're at, we're called -[2629.88 --> 2633.14] to gather together and participate together. -[2633.38 --> 2637.04] Even if we have a basket on our head and garland, you're welcome around this table. -[2637.04 --> 2639.00] And we look forward to that. -[2639.14 --> 2642.32] So take time this week to prayerfully prepare for that. -[2643.46 --> 2645.20] So now, yeah, let's gather together. -[2645.32 --> 2648.38] For those of us here, let's lift our hearts together. -[2648.38 --> 2653.32] And to those of us online who are worshiping with us as well as one body, let's lift up -[2653.32 --> 2655.86] our voices to God and reach out in prayer. -[2657.86 --> 2661.56] Lord, our God, we exalt you and praise your name. -[2662.32 --> 2666.68] For in perfect faithfulness, you have done wonderful things, things planned long ago. -[2667.80 --> 2672.76] We know that you, Lord, our God, you are faithful, keeping your covenant love to a thousand -[2672.76 --> 2675.86] generations of those who love you and keep your commandments. -[2676.80 --> 2678.28] Great is your faithfulness, Lord. -[2678.38 --> 2684.64] When we stop and reflect on your goodness and faithfulness and take time to count our blessings, -[2685.18 --> 2686.98] we see your hand at work everywhere. -[2686.98 --> 2692.94] In this church community, some of us are celebrating restored health, new faith, new -[2692.94 --> 2694.30] children, answers to prayer. -[2694.96 --> 2699.58] We praise you, Lord, for all the blessings you have poured out on us and for your unfailing -[2699.58 --> 2701.08] love and hope in Jesus. -[2702.36 --> 2706.72] We rejoice with the howlings as they receive their new son, Jed Wolf Howling, last week. -[2706.72 --> 2713.06] Bless and guide parents to help us raise children who know your ways and trust and follow you. -[2713.90 --> 2716.18] You alone, Lord, are worthy of our praise. -[2717.18 --> 2723.74] We also turn to those, we also turn to you, those who are carrying burdens, and we carry -[2723.74 --> 2724.66] them to you together. -[2724.66 --> 2737.52] We confess, Lord, that there are times, too, when we don't see the whole picture and we struggle to find your will in hard times. -[2737.96 --> 2740.08] But we know and confess that you are faithful. -[2740.08 --> 2752.34] When we are seeking your will, help us to remember to rejoice always, to pray continually, and to give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for us in Christ Jesus. -[2753.54 --> 2757.30] Lord, we lift up those who are in times of sickness and mourning. -[2758.06 --> 2764.54] Lord, we pray for the Vanderweel family, as Tony Vanderweel, a past member of this church, passed away last Sunday. -[2764.54 --> 2769.96] Lord, we ask for your blessing on their family and your comfort in their time of mourning. -[2770.82 --> 2782.04] And Lord, as his funeral is coming up on February 10th at Fleetwood, Lord, we pray for that to be a time of celebration of the life you've given to him and to each of us. -[2783.58 --> 2790.94] And Lord, we also pray for Arnie Mellison from M2W2, as he's presently hospitalized with a brain tumor. -[2790.94 --> 2795.28] Lord, we ask for your healing and for your grace on Arnie and his family. -[2796.60 --> 2803.74] And Lord, we pray for all of those who are struggling with various struggles at this time. -[2804.40 --> 2811.76] Lord, we pray for Elise Wagoner's dad, Doug Kendon, as he has just completed radiation and he's continuing on with chemotherapy. -[2811.76 --> 2821.16] Lord, we ask for your healing hand on the treatments, that the results from the PET scan next Saturday would show the radiation was effective on the spinal tumor. -[2822.14 --> 2829.94] Lord, we pray for Doug, that your spirit would encourage him as he adjusts to partial paralysis when he's so used to being physically fit and active. -[2830.52 --> 2837.02] We pray for Doug's wife, Jerry, and for Aaron, Elise, Tice, and Mareka, as they walk this difficult journey with Doug. -[2837.02 --> 2844.92] Lord, some of us are battling depression, especially those dark winter months that we're in. -[2845.16 --> 2847.10] And Lord, we pray for comfort and hope. -[2847.76 --> 2852.16] Please lift us up out of the pit and settle our feet on Christ, the solid rock. -[2853.12 --> 2859.22] And Lord, we pray for those of us who are struggling deeply with addictions and family and friends who are impacted by these addictions. -[2859.86 --> 2864.36] We ask for you to guide those battling addictions to get the help they need to recover. -[2864.36 --> 2870.54] We also pray for those who are shut in and unable to get out of their homes due to aging and ailments. -[2871.28 --> 2875.56] Help us to be a unified, connected body, even when we are not gathered together, Lord. -[2875.98 --> 2879.62] Each and every one of us here has cares on our hearts, and we need you. -[2880.58 --> 2883.36] Lord, draw us to you as you call us, saying, -[2883.60 --> 2886.96] Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. -[2886.96 --> 2896.02] Lord, we also pray for Tanya Tessemaker, as she is struggling deeply with pain from the cancer in her body and the medications that she's taking to stop the cancer. -[2896.78 --> 2905.64] Lord, we pray for healing for Tanya and strength for the family, Claus, Amanda, and myself, and the kids, and her sister Jocelyn, as we navigate this difficult journey. -[2905.64 --> 2914.32] We pray for peace and assurance to know that it is well with my soul, even when it is not well with our bodies due to sickness or disease. -[2915.44 --> 2920.46] Lord, you are our only comfort, our hope and comfort in life and in death. -[2921.20 --> 2926.30] Help us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. -[2926.30 --> 2935.56] We pray for your grace to flood over our world and bring peace to us in places of war, political divisions, hunger, and devastation. -[2936.32 --> 2944.06] We pray for those affected by the fires in California and elsewhere, Lord, and we pray for your grace in each of their lives. -[2944.90 --> 2949.06] We pray for those who are impacted by the economic actions between countries. -[2949.84 --> 2952.22] Help us follow your call to be good neighbors. -[2952.22 --> 2962.86] Lord, we pray that you will use your church to be your hands and feet and bring healing and bring the gospel to a world so desperately in need of your salvation, Jesus. -[2963.72 --> 2967.00] And as you speak to us this morning through the words of Pastor Sean, -[2967.26 --> 2971.04] please open our hearts to see you and our ears to hear you. -[2971.38 --> 2975.72] And help us not merely listen to the word, Lord, but help us to do what it says. -[2976.50 --> 2979.76] We pray all this in the name of our Savior, Jesus. Amen. -[2982.22 --> 2999.40] Good morning once again. -[3000.08 --> 3005.16] My name is Sean, and I'm from New Life CRC in Abbotsford. -[3005.16 --> 3010.34] Just to give you a bit of an introduction, I have a wife. -[3010.62 --> 3014.68] Her name is Ashley, and our son, Kairos, is almost four. -[3015.18 --> 3021.46] And they wanted to be here with me this morning, but I wasn't sure how the road conditions would be with the snow and everything. -[3021.60 --> 3027.24] So I left early, which meant trying to get a toddler at four years, almost four years old, -[3027.94 --> 3031.70] earlier on time is next to impossible early morning. -[3031.70 --> 3035.66] So those of you who have young children know what I mean. -[3035.96 --> 3040.48] But so sadly, it's just me that's here tonight, to this morning, and I'm glad to be here. -[3042.72 --> 3047.74] I got to know Pastor Chris a little better because we went to Synod together last year. -[3047.90 --> 3051.04] Before that, I knew of him, but I never got to meet him or talk to him. -[3051.38 --> 3053.42] But going to Synod, we drove together. -[3053.58 --> 3057.86] I met him at his house, and we drove to the airport on our way to Synod. -[3057.86 --> 3064.28] And interestingly, that day, there were some major accidents on the bridge and through the tunnel. -[3064.60 --> 3068.46] And so the Google Maps just took us like the most roundabout way to get to YVR. -[3068.76 --> 3075.14] And it took us almost like two hours to get to the airport, which made for lots of good conversations and getting to know one another really well. -[3075.60 --> 3078.98] So it was a good time just getting to know Pastor Chris. -[3078.98 --> 3084.24] And it was also very assuring for me being a first-time delegate to Synod. -[3085.30 --> 3087.92] And I think he's been there three or four times. -[3088.26 --> 3096.82] And to sit at the same table with someone who's that experienced and who's quite keen on church polity and church order, if you know him, -[3097.24 --> 3103.68] is very assuring for someone like me who's also keen in church order and polity, but first-time delegate at Synod. -[3103.68 --> 3113.96] And so all that to say, yeah, I love Pastor Chris, and I'm glad to be here with you to lead you in worship and to share God's Word with you. -[3115.96 --> 3121.12] Now, to share with you a little bit of a secret, lately it's been my practice. -[3121.68 --> 3125.02] As I write the introduction of each sermon to ask myself the question, -[3126.36 --> 3128.62] why should we pay attention to this message? -[3128.62 --> 3132.60] Why should we pay attention to this passage? -[3133.78 --> 3138.48] Why is it important that I, the preacher, and the congregation hear this message? -[3140.04 --> 3142.58] I've asked the same question as I wrote this sermon also. -[3142.74 --> 3147.18] Why should we, you, the congregation of Langley Emanuel CRC, and I, -[3147.60 --> 3154.64] pay attention to this passage that Paul wrote to some people living in some ancient city almost 2,000 years ago? -[3154.64 --> 3163.52] I believe we should pay attention to this passage because it teaches us how we as Christians should face persecutions -[3163.52 --> 3166.80] when it comes to us because of our faith in Jesus Christ. -[3167.62 --> 3172.12] As Paul bears his heart out for the believers in this ancient city of Thessalonica, -[3172.48 --> 3174.80] which still exists today, by the way, in Greece, -[3175.56 --> 3179.38] we're also taught how to face the trials that challenge our faith in the present -[3179.38 --> 3183.42] as we wait for Jesus' future but imminent return. -[3184.64 --> 3186.22] So let's read the passage together. -[3186.66 --> 3192.50] Our passage today is from 1 Thessalonians 2, verses 17 to 3, verse 5. -[3193.56 --> 3197.12] I'll be reading from the NIV, and the words will be up on the screen behind me. -[3197.12 --> 3204.90] But brothers and sisters, when we were orphaned by being separated from you for a short time, -[3205.00 --> 3206.40] in person, not in thought, -[3207.40 --> 3210.94] out of our intense longing we made every effort to see you. -[3211.70 --> 3215.36] For we wanted to come to you, certainly I, Paul, did again and again, -[3215.82 --> 3217.28] but Satan blocked our way. -[3217.28 --> 3224.54] For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when He comes? -[3225.32 --> 3226.14] Is it not you? -[3226.98 --> 3229.20] Indeed, you are our glory and joy. -[3229.92 --> 3234.56] So when we could stand no longer, we thought it best to be left by ourselves in Athens. -[3235.46 --> 3238.84] We sent Timothy, who is our brother and co-worker in God's service, -[3239.20 --> 3240.72] in spreading the gospel of Christ, -[3240.72 --> 3243.58] to strengthen and encourage you in your faith, -[3244.22 --> 3247.12] so that no one would be unsettled by these trials. -[3248.26 --> 3251.90] For you know quite well that we are destined for them. -[3252.76 --> 3256.40] In fact, when we were with you, we kept telling you that we would be persecuted, -[3257.04 --> 3259.26] and it turned out that way, as you well know. -[3260.40 --> 3263.60] For this reason, when I could stand no longer, -[3263.78 --> 3265.38] when I could stand no longer, -[3265.88 --> 3267.76] I sent to find out about your faith. -[3267.76 --> 3271.80] I was afraid that in some way the tempter had tempted you, -[3272.10 --> 3274.64] and that our labors might have been in vain. -[3276.66 --> 3278.14] Let's pray once again. -[3281.40 --> 3282.86] Spirit of the living God, -[3283.68 --> 3289.94] we ask that you would accomplish what you have purposed, -[3290.78 --> 3293.60] your word to accomplish this morning. -[3294.46 --> 3296.02] May it not return to you empty. -[3297.76 --> 3300.90] As your word is being proclaimed in this place. -[3303.52 --> 3305.86] Illuminate these words into our minds and our hearts. -[3306.64 --> 3307.54] Help us understand. -[3308.20 --> 3308.84] Teach us. -[3309.80 --> 3313.48] And empower us to live in obedience to your word. -[3314.22 --> 3314.98] In Jesus' name. -[3315.58 --> 3315.82] Amen. -[3315.82 --> 3320.90] Now, in chapter 2, verse 17, -[3321.08 --> 3324.02] we read that Paul was separated from them in person. -[3324.82 --> 3327.44] The reason for this is found in the story of Acts 17, -[3327.60 --> 3330.32] where Paul and Silas were in Thessalonica, -[3330.88 --> 3333.50] discussing with the Jews over three Sabbath days, -[3333.64 --> 3334.52] over three weeks, -[3335.06 --> 3337.80] and proving to them that Jesus is indeed the Messiah. -[3337.80 --> 3342.22] Some of the Jews were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, -[3342.64 --> 3347.64] along with a great number of the devout Gentiles and women of high standing in the city. -[3348.98 --> 3350.96] Some Jews got jealous of this, -[3351.02 --> 3352.34] so they stirred up a riot, -[3352.94 --> 3353.82] forming a mob, -[3354.14 --> 3355.26] and attacked Jason, -[3355.44 --> 3357.46] whom they thought was hiding Paul and Silas. -[3358.26 --> 3359.52] The mob couldn't find them, -[3359.52 --> 3361.62] so they dragged Jason out of his house, -[3361.68 --> 3362.92] along with other believers, -[3363.50 --> 3365.94] and accused them before the city authorities, -[3366.14 --> 3369.30] saying that Jason had received Paul and Silas, -[3369.66 --> 3372.58] who have caused great trouble all over the world. -[3373.12 --> 3373.72] In their words, -[3373.74 --> 3376.22] who have turned this world upside down, -[3377.22 --> 3378.78] and have now come to the city, -[3378.94 --> 3382.12] leading people to go against Caesar's decrees, -[3382.12 --> 3385.66] by saying that there is another king named Jesus. -[3387.08 --> 3388.70] The city authorities were disturbed -[3388.70 --> 3389.48] by this, -[3389.52 --> 3391.36] so they punished Jason and the other believers -[3391.36 --> 3392.84] by charging them a fine, -[3393.36 --> 3395.56] and let them all go. -[3396.94 --> 3398.52] It was because of this ordeal -[3398.52 --> 3402.18] that Paul and Silas had to leave Thessalonica at night. -[3404.24 --> 3406.12] It is with this as the backdrop -[3406.12 --> 3408.86] where Paul's pastoral heart for the Thessalonians -[3408.86 --> 3411.68] is shown in this passage that we've just read. -[3413.20 --> 3415.46] Many of the converts to whom Paul was writing -[3415.46 --> 3416.46] were new converts, -[3416.90 --> 3418.68] because it wasn't long after they joined Paul -[3418.68 --> 3420.84] and Silas that persecution broke out, -[3421.10 --> 3423.04] and they were forced to leave the city. -[3424.64 --> 3427.04] This is why Paul says that he was orphaned -[3427.04 --> 3429.66] by being separated from them in verse 17. -[3430.38 --> 3431.92] Now, unlike our modern usage, -[3432.04 --> 3434.02] the Greek word used here -[3434.02 --> 3436.88] could either refer to the child -[3436.88 --> 3439.02] who has lost his or her parents, -[3439.42 --> 3442.98] or the parents who were bereft of their child. -[3442.98 --> 3447.50] So in this case, Paul is using it in the latter sense, -[3447.72 --> 3450.02] where he feels as though he and Silas -[3450.02 --> 3451.42] were separated from them, -[3451.46 --> 3454.02] like parents forced to separate -[3454.02 --> 3455.18] from their own children. -[3456.92 --> 3458.22] Now, from the rest of the letter, -[3458.34 --> 3459.66] Paul clearly thought of himself -[3459.66 --> 3461.18] as their spiritual parent. -[3461.72 --> 3464.08] In the preceding section just before our passage, -[3464.18 --> 3464.54] he writes, -[3464.54 --> 3467.50] just as a nursing mother cares for her children, -[3467.96 --> 3469.26] so we cared for you. -[3469.98 --> 3472.06] Because we loved you so much, -[3472.82 --> 3474.60] we were delighted to share with you -[3474.60 --> 3476.12] not only the gospel of God, -[3476.18 --> 3477.62] but our lives as well. -[3478.68 --> 3480.50] Also in 2, verse 11, he wrote, -[3480.76 --> 3482.04] we dealt with each of you -[3482.04 --> 3484.76] as a father deals with his own children, -[3485.14 --> 3486.68] encouraging, comforting, -[3487.02 --> 3489.90] and urging you to live lives worthy of God. -[3489.90 --> 3493.84] Paul loved and cared for them -[3493.84 --> 3496.48] as a parent loves his or her children. -[3498.14 --> 3499.64] This is why it was so painful -[3499.64 --> 3502.98] for Paul to be torn away from them, -[3503.26 --> 3505.24] which made his longing to be with them -[3505.24 --> 3508.08] in person all the more intense. -[3510.20 --> 3512.58] This is also why Paul writes -[3512.58 --> 3515.36] that although they're separated from him in person, -[3515.96 --> 3518.62] they're not separated from him in thought. -[3518.62 --> 3520.68] In other words, for Paul, -[3520.76 --> 3521.96] the believers in Thessalonica -[3521.96 --> 3523.76] may be out of his sight, -[3524.12 --> 3525.34] absent from him physically, -[3525.94 --> 3527.68] but not out of his mind. -[3529.18 --> 3531.04] Aside from the forced separation, -[3532.04 --> 3534.18] another reason why they were not out of his mind -[3534.18 --> 3535.46] was because of the trials -[3535.46 --> 3536.88] that they were experiencing. -[3537.08 --> 3537.66] What trials? -[3539.46 --> 3541.66] Given the circumstance of Paul and Silas' -[3541.82 --> 3543.46] forced departure from Thessalonica, -[3543.90 --> 3545.18] it is not unlikely -[3545.18 --> 3547.44] that the believers in Thessalonica -[3547.44 --> 3548.64] experienced the same, -[3548.78 --> 3550.86] if not a similar kind of persecution -[3550.86 --> 3552.12] in the city. -[3553.32 --> 3555.40] Because the new converts following Jesus -[3555.40 --> 3556.56] as their new king -[3556.56 --> 3559.44] would have been seen as public enemies, -[3559.82 --> 3562.26] those who disturbed the peace in the city -[3562.26 --> 3564.94] as agitators of the status quo. -[3565.94 --> 3566.84] Here's why. -[3566.84 --> 3570.98] The city of Thessalonica -[3570.98 --> 3573.50] was loyal to Caesar -[3573.50 --> 3575.96] and showed its loyalty -[3575.96 --> 3579.34] through the imperial cult, -[3580.18 --> 3581.78] the worship of the emperor. -[3582.90 --> 3584.58] This in turn allowed the city -[3584.58 --> 3586.66] and its people to enjoy favor from Rome. -[3587.48 --> 3588.60] And for this reason, -[3588.72 --> 3590.66] it was crucial that they maintain -[3590.66 --> 3592.26] good connection to Caesar -[3592.26 --> 3595.06] so that they can continue to enjoy favor, -[3595.06 --> 3598.48] which directly tied to their prosperity -[3598.48 --> 3599.22] as a city. -[3600.82 --> 3601.26] Therefore, -[3601.96 --> 3603.82] to have a movement of people -[3603.82 --> 3604.70] declaring Jesus -[3604.70 --> 3606.36] as their Lord and Savior -[3606.36 --> 3607.80] was a problem. -[3609.26 --> 3610.14] And it needed -[3610.14 --> 3611.74] to be stomped out quickly -[3611.74 --> 3613.70] to show the city's -[3613.70 --> 3615.60] unwavering allegiance to Caesar. -[3615.60 --> 3618.30] This is why the accusation -[3618.30 --> 3619.56] against Paul and Silas -[3619.56 --> 3620.52] along with Jason -[3620.52 --> 3621.44] and the other believers -[3621.44 --> 3623.32] disturbed the city authorities -[3623.32 --> 3624.42] because they were accused -[3624.42 --> 3626.24] of acting against -[3626.24 --> 3627.66] the decrees of Caesar. -[3630.78 --> 3631.42] Thus, -[3631.50 --> 3632.10] the persecutions -[3632.10 --> 3632.72] that the believers -[3632.72 --> 3634.04] in Thessalonica faced -[3634.04 --> 3636.42] may have affected them financially. -[3636.90 --> 3638.10] Just like we see -[3638.10 --> 3639.48] in Acts chapter 17 -[3639.48 --> 3640.84] where Jason is fined -[3640.84 --> 3642.24] as a persecution -[3642.24 --> 3643.72] or as punishment -[3643.72 --> 3645.30] or socially -[3645.30 --> 3647.06] being seen as those -[3647.06 --> 3647.78] who are against -[3647.78 --> 3648.86] the common good -[3648.86 --> 3649.96] of the city and its people. -[3651.02 --> 3651.70] In other words, -[3652.72 --> 3653.58] Christians were viewed -[3653.58 --> 3654.48] as obstacles -[3654.48 --> 3655.86] to the flourishing -[3655.86 --> 3656.78] of the city -[3656.78 --> 3658.04] and the people -[3658.04 --> 3659.28] of Thessalonica, -[3660.30 --> 3661.54] thus needing -[3661.54 --> 3662.80] to be silenced -[3662.80 --> 3664.18] and punished -[3664.18 --> 3665.50] if necessary -[3665.50 --> 3667.34] for the common good -[3667.34 --> 3668.52] of Thessalonica. -[3668.52 --> 3675.16] We also -[3675.16 --> 3677.48] live in a cultural climate -[3677.48 --> 3678.74] that's not too far -[3678.74 --> 3680.34] from the situation -[3680.34 --> 3680.94] that the believers -[3680.94 --> 3681.80] in Thessalonica -[3681.80 --> 3683.04] have found themselves in. -[3684.28 --> 3685.16] In his book, -[3685.42 --> 3686.40] Live No Lies, -[3687.08 --> 3687.90] John Markoma writes -[3687.90 --> 3689.06] that followers of Jesus -[3689.06 --> 3690.30] are currently living -[3690.30 --> 3691.44] through what he calls -[3691.44 --> 3693.18] the three tectonic shifts -[3693.18 --> 3694.22] in Western culture. -[3695.36 --> 3696.08] The first shift -[3696.08 --> 3697.34] is the movement -[3697.34 --> 3698.08] from majority -[3698.08 --> 3698.90] to minority. -[3699.90 --> 3700.68] Although certainly -[3700.68 --> 3701.46] not a minority -[3701.46 --> 3702.06] in number, -[3702.72 --> 3703.30] Christians are now -[3703.30 --> 3704.06] considered to be -[3704.06 --> 3705.04] what the sociologists -[3705.04 --> 3706.96] call a cognitive minority. -[3708.20 --> 3709.44] In today's society, -[3709.56 --> 3710.34] Christian worldview -[3710.34 --> 3711.40] and its value systems -[3711.40 --> 3712.34] are increasingly -[3712.34 --> 3713.06] at odds -[3713.06 --> 3714.02] with the culture's -[3714.02 --> 3714.50] practices -[3714.50 --> 3715.90] and social norms. -[3717.12 --> 3717.80] Christians today -[3717.80 --> 3719.36] face constant pressure -[3719.36 --> 3720.54] to assimilate -[3720.54 --> 3721.32] and follow -[3721.32 --> 3722.42] the rest of society -[3722.42 --> 3723.54] much like the believers -[3723.54 --> 3724.36] in Thessalonica -[3724.36 --> 3725.60] who face pressures -[3725.60 --> 3726.36] to assimilate -[3726.36 --> 3727.30] and to conform -[3727.30 --> 3728.36] to worshiping Caesar. -[3730.50 --> 3731.62] The second -[3731.62 --> 3732.54] tectonic shift -[3732.54 --> 3733.96] is the movement -[3733.96 --> 3735.94] from a place of honor -[3735.94 --> 3737.96] to a place of shame. -[3739.56 --> 3740.36] Christian faith -[3740.36 --> 3741.88] no longer has a place -[3741.88 --> 3742.38] of honor -[3742.38 --> 3743.62] in the public square. -[3744.64 --> 3745.60] With society's -[3745.60 --> 3746.42] radical reversal -[3746.42 --> 3747.10] around issues -[3747.10 --> 3748.04] like human sexuality, -[3748.74 --> 3749.06] gender, -[3749.56 --> 3750.72] and life of the unborn, -[3750.90 --> 3751.72] followers of Jesus -[3751.72 --> 3752.64] are now seen -[3752.64 --> 3753.94] as part of the problem. -[3754.36 --> 3756.24] not as the solution. -[3757.68 --> 3759.06] The biblical vision -[3759.06 --> 3759.98] of human sexuality -[3759.98 --> 3761.40] is taken as simply wrong -[3761.40 --> 3762.86] and irrelevant -[3762.86 --> 3765.14] by a large number -[3765.14 --> 3766.22] of population. -[3767.06 --> 3767.88] Because of this, -[3768.92 --> 3769.94] Christians and their values -[3769.94 --> 3770.96] are no longer held -[3770.96 --> 3771.78] in high esteem -[3771.78 --> 3772.58] in the public square, -[3773.58 --> 3774.50] but as something -[3774.50 --> 3775.56] to hide -[3775.56 --> 3777.28] and to be ashamed of. -[3777.28 --> 3781.14] So first movement, -[3781.88 --> 3782.78] majority to minority, -[3783.36 --> 3784.00] second movement, -[3784.16 --> 3785.14] from a place of honor -[3785.14 --> 3786.24] to a place of shame. -[3786.96 --> 3788.08] Now the third shift -[3788.08 --> 3789.20] is the movement -[3789.20 --> 3790.84] from widespread tolerance -[3790.84 --> 3793.32] to rising hostility, -[3793.96 --> 3794.78] where Christians -[3794.78 --> 3795.74] are now increasingly -[3795.74 --> 3798.28] thought of as dangerous. -[3798.28 --> 3801.32] the teachings of Jesus -[3801.32 --> 3802.40] is now seen -[3802.40 --> 3803.20] as a threat -[3803.20 --> 3805.02] to secularism's -[3805.02 --> 3805.90] alternative vision -[3805.90 --> 3806.90] of human flourishing. -[3807.84 --> 3808.74] While in the past, -[3808.84 --> 3809.62] Christians were regarded -[3809.62 --> 3811.00] as weird, -[3811.26 --> 3812.16] but good people, -[3813.16 --> 3814.92] today in Western society, -[3814.98 --> 3815.68] Christians are regarded -[3815.68 --> 3816.48] as bigots, -[3817.18 --> 3817.46] haters, -[3817.90 --> 3818.96] and homophobes. -[3818.96 --> 3823.20] What are we to do -[3823.20 --> 3824.62] in this cultural climate? -[3826.70 --> 3828.24] How does our passage -[3828.24 --> 3829.20] today -[3829.20 --> 3831.44] teach us to live -[3831.44 --> 3832.38] in this present -[3832.38 --> 3833.22] cultural moment -[3833.22 --> 3834.56] as we wait -[3834.56 --> 3835.94] for Christ's return? -[3838.82 --> 3839.42] First, -[3840.28 --> 3842.38] it teaches us -[3842.38 --> 3844.84] to live with the acceptance -[3844.84 --> 3846.84] that Christians -[3846.84 --> 3847.90] are destined -[3847.90 --> 3849.32] for trials, -[3850.02 --> 3850.68] we're destined -[3850.68 --> 3851.58] for trials, -[3851.66 --> 3852.44] as Paul reminded -[3852.44 --> 3853.32] the Thessalonians. -[3854.38 --> 3855.28] The believers -[3855.28 --> 3856.00] in Thessalonica -[3856.00 --> 3856.86] have seen Paul -[3856.86 --> 3857.50] and Silas -[3857.50 --> 3858.54] and their fellow believers -[3858.54 --> 3859.40] face persecution, -[3859.94 --> 3861.18] and they were told -[3861.18 --> 3861.62] by Paul -[3861.62 --> 3862.48] that they themselves -[3862.48 --> 3863.24] would also -[3863.24 --> 3864.30] experience persecution. -[3865.28 --> 3865.86] And indeed, -[3866.02 --> 3866.98] it has turned out -[3866.98 --> 3867.40] that way, -[3867.56 --> 3868.08] as Paul says -[3868.08 --> 3868.66] in verse 4 -[3868.66 --> 3869.30] of chapter 3. -[3871.18 --> 3871.70] Suffering -[3871.70 --> 3872.92] and facing opposition -[3872.92 --> 3874.12] for our faith -[3874.12 --> 3875.62] is not unusual -[3875.62 --> 3876.42] for followers -[3876.42 --> 3877.00] of Jesus. -[3877.90 --> 3878.74] After all, -[3878.86 --> 3880.10] Jesus himself suffered, -[3880.70 --> 3882.12] being falsely accused, -[3882.72 --> 3883.16] shamed, -[3883.80 --> 3884.40] beaten up, -[3884.90 --> 3885.78] eventually nailed -[3885.78 --> 3886.46] and impaled -[3886.46 --> 3887.30] on a cross. -[3888.30 --> 3889.68] He told his disciples -[3889.68 --> 3890.26] that suffering -[3890.26 --> 3891.00] is inevitable -[3891.00 --> 3892.66] for his followers. -[3893.46 --> 3894.12] He says in John -[3894.12 --> 3894.78] chapter 15, -[3894.86 --> 3895.98] if the world hates you, -[3896.36 --> 3896.92] keep in mind -[3896.92 --> 3898.32] that it hated me first. -[3899.28 --> 3900.50] Remember what I told you, -[3900.70 --> 3902.06] a servant is not greater -[3902.06 --> 3902.82] than his master. -[3903.14 --> 3904.42] If they persecuted me, -[3905.02 --> 3906.52] they will persecute you also. -[3906.52 --> 3911.32] For Christians, -[3912.52 --> 3913.70] suffering persecution -[3913.70 --> 3916.24] is part of the call -[3916.24 --> 3917.88] to taking up the cross -[3917.88 --> 3920.22] and following after Jesus. -[3923.64 --> 3924.76] Persecution was not new -[3924.76 --> 3925.72] for the followers of Jesus -[3925.72 --> 3926.42] throughout history, -[3926.92 --> 3928.06] and it certainly isn't new -[3928.06 --> 3928.70] for us today. -[3929.68 --> 3930.60] We see this -[3930.60 --> 3931.78] in the letters of Paul -[3931.78 --> 3933.02] as well as in 1 Peter -[3933.02 --> 3933.52] where he says, -[3933.52 --> 3934.34] Dear friends, -[3935.20 --> 3936.56] do not be surprised -[3936.56 --> 3938.34] at the fiery ordeal -[3938.34 --> 3939.76] that has come on you -[3939.76 --> 3940.94] to test you, -[3941.58 --> 3942.90] as though something strange -[3942.90 --> 3943.80] were happening to you. -[3946.04 --> 3947.22] Don't be surprised -[3947.22 --> 3948.14] by persecutions, -[3948.28 --> 3948.80] Peter says. -[3949.72 --> 3950.92] So what are we to do -[3950.92 --> 3951.88] when faced with trials? -[3953.58 --> 3954.52] Peter continues, -[3955.52 --> 3956.22] Rejoice. -[3957.30 --> 3958.72] Rejoice in as much -[3958.72 --> 3959.68] as you participate -[3959.68 --> 3961.66] in the sufferings of Christ. -[3961.66 --> 3963.68] Rejoice because you're suffering. -[3964.06 --> 3964.94] By your suffering, -[3965.04 --> 3965.66] you're participating -[3965.66 --> 3967.66] in the sufferings of Christ. -[3967.76 --> 3968.88] You are joining in -[3968.88 --> 3969.78] with Christ -[3969.78 --> 3970.98] in his suffering. -[3971.60 --> 3972.20] Rejoice. -[3974.78 --> 3976.02] We are to rejoice -[3976.02 --> 3976.98] in our trials. -[3977.80 --> 3978.36] We rejoice -[3978.36 --> 3979.30] because we're participating -[3979.30 --> 3980.64] in Christ's suffering. -[3980.98 --> 3982.08] Like those who have gone -[3982.08 --> 3982.82] before us, -[3982.90 --> 3983.44] we rejoice -[3983.44 --> 3984.68] knowing that we're being -[3984.68 --> 3985.62] counted worthy -[3985.62 --> 3986.28] of suffering -[3986.28 --> 3987.26] for Christ's name. -[3987.72 --> 3988.52] We rejoice -[3988.52 --> 3989.28] in our suffering -[3989.28 --> 3990.62] because if we share -[3990.62 --> 3991.36] in his suffering, -[3991.36 --> 3992.92] we will also share -[3992.92 --> 3993.84] in his glory -[3993.84 --> 3994.68] when he returns. -[3995.78 --> 3996.10] Furthermore, -[3996.34 --> 3996.96] we rejoice -[3996.96 --> 3998.28] knowing that when we suffer -[3998.28 --> 3999.22] for Christ's sake, -[3999.52 --> 4000.82] his return is near. -[4001.66 --> 4002.64] As Jesus says -[4002.64 --> 4003.78] in Matthew chapter 24, -[4004.22 --> 4004.80] he says this, -[4004.96 --> 4006.26] Then you will be handed over -[4006.26 --> 4007.08] to be persecuted -[4007.08 --> 4008.30] and put to death. -[4009.36 --> 4010.54] And you will be hated -[4010.54 --> 4011.42] by all nations -[4011.42 --> 4012.20] because of me. -[4012.96 --> 4013.56] But the one -[4013.56 --> 4014.30] who stands firm -[4014.30 --> 4014.78] to the end -[4014.78 --> 4015.98] will be saved. -[4016.42 --> 4017.22] And this gospel -[4017.22 --> 4017.82] of the kingdom -[4017.82 --> 4018.60] will be preached -[4018.60 --> 4019.46] in the whole world -[4019.46 --> 4020.16] as a testimony -[4020.16 --> 4021.78] to all the nations. -[4021.78 --> 4022.86] And then, -[4023.26 --> 4024.88] the end will come. -[4027.64 --> 4029.10] As such, -[4030.16 --> 4031.12] Christian suffering -[4031.12 --> 4032.54] has always -[4032.54 --> 4034.30] had -[4034.30 --> 4035.68] an eschatological -[4035.68 --> 4036.60] perspective. -[4036.60 --> 4039.30] We know that -[4039.30 --> 4040.44] when suffering comes, -[4041.42 --> 4042.20] we're reminded -[4042.20 --> 4043.82] that his return -[4043.82 --> 4045.16] is near -[4045.16 --> 4046.70] as we wait -[4046.70 --> 4048.34] for his return -[4048.34 --> 4049.38] and share -[4049.38 --> 4050.18] in his suffering. -[4055.28 --> 4056.50] Not only that, -[4057.44 --> 4058.42] we rejoice -[4058.42 --> 4060.00] knowing that suffering -[4060.00 --> 4061.82] produces perseverance. -[4062.92 --> 4063.60] Perseverance, -[4063.92 --> 4064.26] character, -[4064.26 --> 4065.60] and character, -[4066.32 --> 4066.62] hope. -[4067.72 --> 4068.44] And no matter -[4068.44 --> 4069.24] how much our faith -[4069.24 --> 4070.08] may bring shame -[4070.08 --> 4072.00] to us in the public square, -[4072.58 --> 4073.40] in the grand scheme -[4073.40 --> 4073.92] of things, -[4074.92 --> 4075.64] the hope produced -[4075.64 --> 4076.38] by suffering -[4076.38 --> 4078.00] for and with Christ -[4078.00 --> 4078.78] will never, -[4079.32 --> 4080.04] never put us -[4080.04 --> 4080.54] to shame -[4080.54 --> 4082.44] because Jesus Christ -[4082.44 --> 4083.70] who suffered -[4083.70 --> 4085.02] has also -[4085.02 --> 4086.40] overcome the world. -[4086.88 --> 4087.20] Hallelujah. -[4089.54 --> 4090.66] Can I get an amen? -[4090.66 --> 4090.86] Amen. -[4090.86 --> 4090.90] Amen. -[4090.90 --> 4090.94] Amen. -[4090.94 --> 4091.50] Amen. -[4091.50 --> 4091.74] Amen. -[4091.74 --> 4091.94] Amen. -[4091.94 --> 4091.98] Amen. -[4094.64 --> 4095.12] Personally, -[4096.74 --> 4097.88] it teaches us -[4097.88 --> 4098.80] to live -[4098.80 --> 4100.22] with the assurance -[4100.22 --> 4101.56] that we're not alone -[4101.56 --> 4102.34] when we are faced -[4102.34 --> 4103.54] with persecutions. -[4105.62 --> 4106.52] We know that -[4106.52 --> 4107.10] the circumstance -[4107.10 --> 4107.86] that the Thessalonians -[4107.86 --> 4108.74] found themselves in -[4108.74 --> 4109.48] after putting -[4109.48 --> 4110.54] their faith in Jesus -[4110.54 --> 4111.74] was not -[4111.74 --> 4113.04] a favorable one. -[4114.38 --> 4115.00] We know this -[4115.00 --> 4115.38] to be true -[4115.38 --> 4116.14] because Paul writes -[4116.14 --> 4116.76] in chapter 2, -[4116.82 --> 4117.32] verse 14 -[4117.32 --> 4118.88] that the Thessalonian church -[4118.88 --> 4119.98] became imitators -[4119.98 --> 4121.00] of God's churches -[4121.00 --> 4122.12] in Judea -[4122.12 --> 4125.10] because they suffered from their own people. -[4126.02 --> 4128.92] Paul writes that the Thessalonians suffered from their own people. -[4130.14 --> 4134.28] The same kind of sufferings the churches in Judea received from the Jews. -[4136.32 --> 4139.96] This is why Paul and Silas, out of their intense longing, -[4140.54 --> 4142.58] made every effort to come see them. -[4143.42 --> 4145.62] Their forced separation from the Thessalonian church -[4145.62 --> 4148.30] not only intensified their longing to see them, -[4148.30 --> 4151.64] it also intensified their concern for their new believers' faith, -[4151.64 --> 4154.30] faith as they faced persecution. -[4157.06 --> 4160.14] Paul and Silas worry that the believers in Thessalonica -[4160.14 --> 4163.32] might be unsettled in their faith by these trials. -[4164.54 --> 4168.38] Paul was also afraid that Satan may have tempted them from faith, -[4168.86 --> 4170.76] thereby making their work be in vain. -[4172.40 --> 4175.90] After all, Paul and Silas consider the believers in Thessalonica -[4175.90 --> 4179.84] their hope, their joy, and the crown of glory. -[4179.84 --> 4184.84] Much like loving parents whose pride and joy is their children. -[4188.50 --> 4195.80] In writing this letter, Paul assures them that they are not alone in their trials. -[4196.64 --> 4198.36] By the contents of the letter, -[4198.76 --> 4203.28] we can see that Paul assures the Thessalonian church that they are not alone. -[4203.28 --> 4208.44] From the start of the letter and the constant repetition of we throughout the letter, -[4208.94 --> 4211.46] it is clear that it is not only Paul who is mindful of them, -[4211.54 --> 4213.12] but also Silas and Timothy. -[4213.78 --> 4216.62] All three of them pray for them continually. -[4217.16 --> 4221.34] All three of them heard that the Thessalonian church suffered persecution from their own people. -[4221.34 --> 4228.38] And for this reason, all three of them longed to be with them and have made every effort to see them. -[4228.92 --> 4231.06] But when they could not return to Thessalonica, -[4231.50 --> 4236.70] Paul and Silas sent Timothy to strengthen and encourage them in their faith -[4236.70 --> 4242.32] so that none of them would be unsettled and tempted to turn away from their faith. -[4242.32 --> 4250.54] This was Paul's assurance to the Thessalonian church that he has not abandoned them -[4250.54 --> 4252.82] or has forgotten about them. -[4254.86 --> 4260.46] Now the Greek word translated as unsettle in the NIV in verse 3 of chapter 3 -[4260.46 --> 4264.78] means to be moved from one place to another. -[4264.78 --> 4271.14] Hence the English Standard Version translation writes moved -[4271.14 --> 4274.50] so that you might not be moved by these trials. -[4276.18 --> 4278.78] Paul and Silas' desire in sending Timothy -[4278.78 --> 4282.54] is that they would be strengthened and encouraged in their faith -[4282.54 --> 4285.78] so that the trials they were facing would not move them -[4285.78 --> 4289.32] from following Christ back to following idols. -[4289.32 --> 4294.84] Also the Greek word translated as tempt in the NIV -[4294.84 --> 4298.36] and also in the ESV in 3 verse 5 -[4298.36 --> 4303.80] has the sense of being enticed, being lured into action. -[4306.12 --> 4308.70] Paul was worried that Satan might use the persecution -[4308.70 --> 4312.78] to entice the Thessalonian church to turn away from faith, -[4313.30 --> 4315.58] thereby undoing the work of Paul and Silas -[4315.58 --> 4317.94] in establishing the Thessalonian church. -[4319.32 --> 4326.28] In the same way, the trials brought on by the three tectonic shifts in our culture, -[4326.82 --> 4328.84] namely the shift from majority to minority, -[4329.42 --> 4333.12] shift from honor to shame, shift from tolerance to hostility, -[4334.34 --> 4342.06] these might unsettle us and tempt us to walk away from our faith -[4342.06 --> 4346.60] instead of being steadfast as we wait for Jesus. -[4346.60 --> 4350.82] The trials we face in our cultural moment, -[4351.06 --> 4353.00] whether through shame or hostility, -[4353.56 --> 4359.20] could move us from following Christ and His teachings -[4359.20 --> 4364.64] to following an ideology or political party. -[4366.44 --> 4371.28] We're faced with the constant pressure to conform to the way of cultural practices -[4371.28 --> 4374.58] and social norms rather than the way of Jesus -[4374.58 --> 4379.70] through social media, movies, and the shows we watch on various streaming platforms. -[4381.08 --> 4385.24] Who thought peer pressure only lasts throughout middle school and high school? -[4385.24 --> 4392.84] How easy it must be for Satan to entice us, -[4392.84 --> 4398.28] to simply go with the flow of culture when we spend countless hours on our devices -[4398.28 --> 4400.20] without much vigilance or resistance. -[4401.20 --> 4403.98] All the while, the very Word of God that gives life -[4403.98 --> 4407.98] sits on our desks or bookshelves collecting dust. -[4407.98 --> 4414.54] Sadly, some Christians, much like the title of a book, -[4416.06 --> 4417.30] amuse themselves to death. -[4422.44 --> 4424.70] This is why it's important for us -[4424.70 --> 4428.54] to be connected to our church community, -[4429.50 --> 4433.48] especially as we face various trials of our time. -[4433.48 --> 4438.68] God has given us people in our church like Paul, -[4439.22 --> 4440.86] like Silas, and Timothy -[4440.86 --> 4443.04] that remember us in prayer. -[4443.56 --> 4444.78] People who not only pray, -[4444.88 --> 4447.54] but also remind us of our identity in Christ -[4447.54 --> 4450.32] and the awesome work that God has done in us. -[4450.44 --> 4453.56] And that's not the job of only pastors or Christian leaders. -[4453.72 --> 4456.30] That's the job of all of us as God's people. -[4457.10 --> 4459.80] That's our accountability and responsibility to one another. -[4459.80 --> 4466.04] People who instruct us to continue to live in a way -[4466.04 --> 4467.92] that pleases God, to honor Him, -[4468.24 --> 4471.50] by keeping us accountable to live lives that are holy unto God, -[4471.92 --> 4473.06] faithful to Christ, -[4473.34 --> 4477.04] and loving toward one another as we wait for our Lord's return. -[4478.64 --> 4480.66] Just as God has used Paul and Silas -[4480.66 --> 4483.44] to remind the Thessalonian church of who they are -[4483.44 --> 4484.78] and how they are to live, -[4485.12 --> 4487.48] God also uses people in our church, -[4488.08 --> 4489.30] brothers and sisters in Christ, -[4489.30 --> 4491.38] and co-workers in God's service -[4491.38 --> 4493.22] to strengthen us -[4493.22 --> 4496.24] and to encourage us when we face trials. -[4497.72 --> 4500.40] This is why the writer of the book of Hebrews tells us, -[4500.50 --> 4501.30] let us consider -[4501.30 --> 4505.88] how we may spur one another on towards love and good deeds, -[4506.50 --> 4509.44] not giving up on meeting together, -[4510.22 --> 4512.00] as some are in the habit of doing, -[4512.68 --> 4514.30] but encouraging one another, -[4514.30 --> 4516.36] as we wait for the day of Christ's return. -[4516.36 --> 4524.46] As we wait for the day of Christ's return, -[4525.42 --> 4529.60] we're called to continue in gathering as God's people -[4529.60 --> 4535.66] for mutual encouragement toward love and good deeds. -[4535.66 --> 4540.64] And this is crucial for us as community, -[4540.86 --> 4544.26] especially as we face trials in our own lives, -[4544.26 --> 4546.66] in our current cultural moment. -[4546.66 --> 4552.22] Now, in this sermon series, -[4552.30 --> 4553.98] you've been learning about how Paul's letter -[4553.98 --> 4556.20] to the Thessalonian church encourages them -[4556.20 --> 4559.58] to live as Christians in the present day -[4559.58 --> 4562.82] as they wait in hope for Christ's return. -[4564.50 --> 4566.42] And in the specific passage we've looked at today, -[4566.52 --> 4569.54] Paul expresses his heart for the believers in Thessalonica -[4569.54 --> 4572.40] to say that they are not alone in their trials. -[4572.40 --> 4575.82] In doing so, he also reminds us, -[4576.54 --> 4580.66] sorry, in doing so, he also reminded them -[4580.66 --> 4582.62] that suffering is part of their destiny -[4582.62 --> 4583.94] as followers of Jesus. -[4585.02 --> 4586.38] Likewise for us, -[4587.18 --> 4589.24] facing opposition and even persecution -[4589.24 --> 4590.82] in our current cultural climate -[4590.82 --> 4594.00] is part of our destiny as we follow Jesus. -[4595.42 --> 4597.56] Accepting it as part of our faith journey -[4597.56 --> 4600.68] will not only help us to persevere in faith, -[4600.68 --> 4604.18] but it would also lead us to rejoice, -[4604.90 --> 4606.62] which would certainly lead those -[4606.62 --> 4608.94] who don't know Christ to wonder. -[4613.78 --> 4616.38] We can also be assured that we are not alone -[4616.38 --> 4618.10] as we face various trials -[4618.10 --> 4620.98] because God has given us the church, -[4621.54 --> 4622.74] the community of faith -[4622.74 --> 4625.24] with whom we're called to gather regularly -[4625.24 --> 4626.94] to encourage one another. -[4626.94 --> 4628.34] But ultimately, -[4629.16 --> 4630.84] we do not face these trials alone -[4630.84 --> 4633.02] because Jesus has assured us -[4633.02 --> 4634.86] that he will be with us always -[4634.86 --> 4637.22] to the very end of the age. -[4638.86 --> 4641.26] Though he may be separated from us physically, -[4642.04 --> 4643.48] it will only be a short time -[4643.48 --> 4645.42] because he will come again soon. -[4646.70 --> 4647.42] Not only that, -[4647.46 --> 4648.50] he's with us in trials -[4648.50 --> 4650.32] because he has given his spirit -[4650.32 --> 4651.40] to dwell in us. -[4651.84 --> 4653.16] The Holy Spirit is the very assurance -[4653.16 --> 4655.94] that Jesus has not abandoned us -[4655.94 --> 4657.70] or forgotten about us. -[4658.58 --> 4659.94] So when we're faced with trials, -[4660.04 --> 4661.90] he's with us through his spirit -[4661.90 --> 4663.08] who teaches us -[4663.08 --> 4666.56] and reminds us of all that Jesus has said. -[4669.06 --> 4670.14] So may we, -[4671.60 --> 4673.84] like many who stood firm in their faith -[4673.84 --> 4675.94] when faced with trials, -[4675.94 --> 4678.28] also stand firm, -[4679.18 --> 4681.92] having our gaze fixed upon Christ -[4681.92 --> 4683.40] until his return -[4683.40 --> 4686.14] so that we may present ourselves -[4686.14 --> 4688.56] blameless in his presence. -[4689.36 --> 4689.64] Amen. -[4689.98 --> 4690.44] Let's pray. -[4698.00 --> 4698.98] Heavenly Father, -[4699.10 --> 4700.20] we thank you for your word. -[4701.84 --> 4703.72] We thank you for the assurance -[4703.72 --> 4706.44] that we are not alone -[4706.44 --> 4709.44] because of your son -[4709.44 --> 4711.54] who is with us -[4711.54 --> 4712.62] always -[4712.62 --> 4715.02] to the very end of the age, -[4715.72 --> 4717.50] because of your spirit -[4717.50 --> 4718.72] who dwells in us, -[4719.50 --> 4721.28] but also because of your people, -[4721.72 --> 4722.28] the church. -[4723.72 --> 4726.22] We're called to gather regularly -[4726.22 --> 4727.82] to love -[4727.82 --> 4729.22] and to encourage one another -[4729.22 --> 4730.94] as we together face trials -[4730.94 --> 4733.84] of trials of various kinds -[4733.84 --> 4734.82] in our own lives. -[4737.48 --> 4738.84] Father, strengthen us. -[4739.86 --> 4740.96] Keep us steadfast -[4740.96 --> 4742.24] in our faith -[4742.24 --> 4744.42] as we wait -[4744.42 --> 4745.84] for your son's return, -[4747.14 --> 4747.82] bringing with him -[4747.82 --> 4748.44] his kingdom -[4748.44 --> 4750.60] and all those -[4750.60 --> 4751.66] who have gone before us. -[4754.32 --> 4755.82] This we pray in Jesus' name. -[4756.52 --> 4756.72] Amen. -[4756.72 --> 4756.82] Amen. -[4760.94 --> 4766.66] Amen. -[4766.66 --> 4766.74] Amen. -[4766.74 --> 4768.02] Amen. -[4768.08 --> 4769.38] Amen. -[4769.48 --> 4769.92] Amen. -[4770.02 --> 4770.40] Amen. -[4770.40 --> 4770.48] Amen. -[4770.48 --> 4770.76] Amen. -[4770.76 --> 4770.98] Amen. -[4770.98 --> 4771.44] Amen. -[4771.64 --> 4771.88] Amen. -[4771.88 --> 4771.98] Amen. -[4771.98 --> 4772.02] Amen. -[4772.08 --> 4772.84] Amen. -[4774.90 --> 4780.86] Amen. -[4780.86 --> 4782.92] Amen. -[4782.92 --> 4782.96] Amen. -[4783.18 --> 4783.46] Amen. -[4783.54 --> 4784.02] Amen. -[4784.24 --> 4784.34] Amen. -[4784.34 --> 4784.70] Amen. -[4784.94 --> 4785.22] Amen. -[4785.26 --> 4786.64] Amen. -[4786.70 --> 4787.04] Amen. -[4787.04 --> 4788.50] Amen. -[4788.50 --> 4789.54] Amen. -[4789.54 --> 4790.08] Amen. -[4790.08 --> 4798.98] But I think we'd see the hand of God -[4798.98 --> 4805.20] In the light of creation's grand design -[4805.20 --> 4812.32] In the lives of those who prove his faithfulness -[4812.32 --> 4817.18] Who walk by faith and not by sight -[4817.18 --> 4825.68] By faith our fathers roll the earth -[4825.68 --> 4832.22] With the power of his promise in their hearts -[4832.22 --> 4838.48] Of a holy city built by God's own man -[4838.48 --> 4842.86] A place where peace and justice reign -[4842.86 --> 4848.66] We will stand as children of the promise -[4848.66 --> 4855.24] We will fix our eyes on him, our souls reward -[4855.24 --> 4861.36] Till the race is finished and the work is done -[4861.36 --> 4867.16] We'll walk by faith and not by sight -[4867.16 --> 4875.60] By faith the prophets saw a day -[4875.60 --> 4881.32] When the long for desire would appear -[4881.32 --> 4888.62] With the power to break the chains of sin and death -[4888.62 --> 4893.70] And rise triumphant from the grave -[4893.70 --> 4898.70] By faith the church was called to go -[4898.70 --> 4905.88] In the power of the Spirit to the lost -[4905.88 --> 4912.70] To deliver captives and to preach good news -[4912.70 --> 4917.20] In every corner of the earth -[4917.20 --> 4922.70] We will stand as children of the promise -[4922.70 --> 4929.28] We will fix our eyes on him, our souls reward -[4929.28 --> 4936.12] Till the race is finished and the work is done -[4936.12 --> 4941.40] We'll walk by faith and not by sight -[4941.40 --> 4949.40] By faith the mountain shall be moved -[4949.40 --> 4954.94] And the power of the gospel shall prevail -[4954.94 --> 4961.68] For we know with Christ all things are possible -[4961.68 --> 4967.52] For all who call upon his name -[4967.52 --> 4972.52] We will stand as children of the promise -[4972.52 --> 4979.72] We will fix our eyes on him, our souls reward -[4979.72 --> 4986.64] Till the race is finished and the work is done -[4986.64 --> 4991.52] We'll walk by faith and not by sight -[4991.52 --> 4996.52] We will stand as children of the promise -[4996.52 --> 5002.52] We will fix our eyes on him, our souls reward -[5002.52 --> 5009.52] Till the race is finished and the work is done -[5009.52 --> 5014.52] We'll walk by faith and not by sight -[5014.52 --> 5028.44] People of God, receive God's blessing -[5028.44 --> 5033.56] May God our Father and His Son Jesus Christ our Lord -[5033.56 --> 5037.56] Strengthen your hearts in trial so that you will be blameless -[5037.56 --> 5040.42] And holy in His presence when He returns -[5040.42 --> 5044.42] And until that day, may God make your love increase -[5044.42 --> 5046.62] And overflow for each other -[5046.62 --> 5049.62] As you endure the trials together in community -[5049.62 --> 5053.76] By the power of the Holy Spirit at work in you -[5053.76 --> 5056.60] The one who calls you is faithful -[5056.60 --> 5058.80] And He will do it -[5058.80 --> 5059.58] Amen -[5059.82 --> 5060.80] Amen -[5060.80 --> 5062.60] Amen -[5062.60 --> 5063.70] Amen -[5063.70 --> 5064.74] Amen -[5064.74 --> 5066.80] Amen -[5066.80 --> 5069.38] Amen -[5069.38 --> 5076.38] Amen -[5078.62 --> 5079.82] Amen -[5079.82 --> 5083.68] Amen -[5083.68 --> 5083.98] Amen -[5083.98 --> 5084.30] Amen -[5084.30 --> 5084.84] Amen -[5084.84 --> 5085.68] Amen -[5085.68 --> 5088.30] Amen -[5088.30 --> 5096.82] Praise Father, from whom all blessings flow. -[5097.82 --> 5102.48] Praise Him, all creatures here below. -[5102.48 --> 5108.48] Praise Him, above ye heavenly hosts. -[5109.70 --> 5115.82] Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. -[5118.30 --> 5124.60] Let earth and heavenly saints proclaim -[5124.60 --> 5130.60] The power and light of His reign. -[5130.60 --> 5136.72] Let us exalt on bended knee. -[5137.14 --> 5142.26] Praise God, the Holy Trinity. -[5142.26 --> 5150.36] Praise God, praise God. -[5150.36 --> 5154.76] Praise God, who saved our soul. -[5154.76 --> 5158.56] Praise God, praise God. -[5158.56 --> 5163.56] Praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[5163.56 --> 5171.86] Praise to the King, His throne transcends. -[5171.86 --> 5177.56] His crown and kingdom never end. -[5177.56 --> 5182.36] Now and throughout eternity. -[5182.36 --> 5196.36] Praise God, praise God. -[5196.36 --> 5200.66] Praise God, who saved our soul. -[5200.66 --> 5205.76] Praise God, praise God. -[5205.76 --> 5209.56] Praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[5209.56 --> 5213.56] Praise God, praise God. -[5213.56 --> 5217.56] Praise God, who saved our soul. -[5217.56 --> 5221.56] Praise God, praise God. -[5221.56 --> 5223.56] Praise God, praise God. -[5223.56 --> 5227.56] Praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[5227.56 --> 5231.56] Praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[5231.56 --> 5235.56] Praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[5235.56 --> 5237.56] Praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[5237.56 --> 5241.56] Praise Him, all creatures here below. -[5241.56 --> 5247.56] Praise Him, above ye heavenly hosts. -[5247.56 --> 5255.56] Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. -[5255.56 --> 5259.56] Praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[5259.56 --> 5263.56] Praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[5263.56 --> 5293.54] Thank you. -[5293.56 --> 5323.54] Thank you. -[5323.56 --> 5353.54] Thank you. -[5353.56 --> 5355.56] Thank you. -[5383.56 --> 5385.56] Thank you. -[5413.56 --> 5415.56] Thank you. -[5443.56 --> 5445.56] Thank you. -[5473.56 --> 5475.56] Thank you. -[5503.56 --> 5505.56] Thank you. -[5533.56 --> 5535.56] Thank you. -[5563.56 --> 5565.56] Thank you. -[5593.56 --> 5595.56] Thank you. -[5623.56 --> 5625.56] Thank you. -[5653.56 --> 5655.56] Thank you. -[5683.56 --> 5685.56] Thank you. -[5713.56 --> 5715.56] Thank you. -[5743.56 --> 5745.56] Thank you. -[5773.56 --> 5775.56] Thank you. -[5803.56 --> 5805.56] Thank you. -[5833.56 --> 5835.56] Thank you. -[5863.56 --> 5865.56] Thank you. -[5893.56 --> 5895.56] Thank you. -[5923.56 --> 5925.56] Thank you. -[5953.56 --> 5955.56] Thank you. -[5983.56 --> 5985.56] Thank you. -[6013.56 --> 6015.56] Thank you. -[6043.56 --> 6045.56] Thank you. -[6073.56 --> 6075.56] Thank you. -[6103.56 --> 6105.56] Thank you. -[6133.56 --> 6135.56] Thank you. -[6163.56 --> 6165.56] Thank you. -[6193.56 --> 6195.56] Thank you. -[6223.56 --> 6225.56] Thank you. -[6253.56 --> 6255.56] Thank you. -[6283.56 --> 6285.56] Thank you. -[6313.56 --> 6315.56] Thank you. -[6343.56 --> 6345.56] Thank you. -[6345.56 --> 6347.56] Thank you. -[6347.56 --> 6377.54] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, February 23, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, February 23, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d6883b670bf6e8754c6cced6594215e1012a79fa..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, February 23, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,87 +0,0 @@ -• Music ministry and worship -• Praise album project with Alan and Joey -• Decision-making process for the album's scope -• Personal reflections and gratitude for God's work in their lives -• Jesus Christ as Savior, Redeemer, and Healer -• Faithfulness through life's challenges and joys -• Difficult journey through dark valleys -• Trust in God's mercy and grace -• Overwhelming sense of dependence on God -• Recognition of God's faithfulness at every step -• Expression of love and gratitude towards a divine figure -• Acknowledgment of limitations in expressing the beauty of one's holiness -• Announcements for worship at Emanuel -• Fundraising update for "Coldest Night of the Year" walk -• Upcoming events: Youth program on Saturday night, worship at Sunridge next Saturday -• Mexico mission team seeking volunteers to transport team members -• Call to worship from Psalm 92 and several songs -• Sermon text not provided in transcript -• The importance of Jesus Christ as the cornerstone -• The Cadet Group's activities and projects -• Lead the Way theme based on 1 Timothy 4:12 -• Setting an example in Christian speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity -• Importance of prayer and service to others -• Expressions of devotion and praise to a king or Lord -• Request for the Lord to reign in the speaker's life -• Mention of the Calvinist Cadet Corps and its goals -• Announcement of an offering to support the ministry -• Worship and prayer, including expressions of awe and gratitude towards God -• Discussion of the name above all names and God's worthiness -• Cadet Sunday gathering and children's worship time discussion on needs vs wants -• Church family prayer led by Eric, an elder at Emmanuel -• Prayers for specific individuals struggling with health concerns: Lena, John V, Tessa, Tim and Charity Johnson, Jermaine -• Prayers for healing and guidance in times of uncertainty and need -• The pastor introduces Cadet Sunday and explains that the sermon will be focused on the cadets -• The passage from 1 Timothy 4:12-14 is read, emphasizing the importance of setting a good example for others and devotion to public reading, preaching, and teaching -• The context of the passage is explained, with Paul writing to his friend Timothy who was a young pastor in Ephesus -• A brief story about Timothy's life is shared, highlighting his faith and relationship with Paul -• The true stories of leaders and their experiences are used as examples for the cadets -• The importance of being a godly example in speech and conduct -• Being an example in love, faith, and purity -• The need to be mindful of the impact of our words on others -• A demonstration or activity with toothpaste and plates (unrelated to the main topic) -• Words are permanent and can't be taken back -• Be careful with words, as they can cause harm or build each other up -• The importance of speaking calmly and respectfully -• Online presence and the permanence of digital posts -• Being an example of right speech in everyday interactions -• Right conduct: acting with integrity and respect in one's actions and interactions -• The importance of referees and linesmen in hockey games -• How the game would have gone without them -• The role of officials in maintaining proper conduct during a game -• The consequences of chaos in a game due to lack of officials -• The connection between right conduct on and off the ice -• The biblical teaching of being an example of right conduct and living honorably -• A story about Desmond Doss, a soldier who refused to carry a rifle but instead carried a medical kit during World War II -• Desmond Doss's story about saving 75 soldiers -• Definition of love and putting others ahead of oneself -• Jesus' statement in John 15:13, "greater love has no one than this...that someone lay down his life for his friends" -• Examples of faith through putting trust in God/other people -• Trust exercise with two cadets standing on chairs and being caught by others -• Faith in wrong things can lead to harm -• Object of faith matters: putting trust in Jesus for hope, peace, and grace -• Examples given of adults putting faith in wrong things (savings accounts, workplaces, etc.) -• Importance of purity as a value to be demonstrated by individuals -• Explanation of purity deferred due to potential consequences (example with dog poop) -• Purity is about what's inside of our hearts, not just avoiding external influences -• Sin originates from within, in thoughts and desires -• Focusing on good things and filling hearts with right thoughts and actions is key to purity -• Taking every thought captive to obey Christ helps maintain purity -• Understanding what it means to be a godly example comes from God's Word, the Bible -• The importance of reading the Bible and its role in teaching us how to live, love, and follow Jesus -• The inevitability of making mistakes despite trying our best, but Jesus' perfection on our behalf -• Jesus using the Bible to guide Him during temptation and living a sinless life as an example for us -• The significance of Jesus taking the punishment for our sins and rising from the dead, allowing us to be forgiven and saved -• How we can follow Jesus without needing to be perfect, but rather because we love Him and are already saved -• The need to read the Bible to grow in faith and remember who Jesus is and what He did for us -• The importance of imitating Jesus' qualities such as speaking, acting, loving, having faith, and living with purity -• Encouragement to read the Bible and learn about Jesus -• Importance of understanding God's Word in shaping lives and behavior -• Call to cadets to be examples of faith and lead by following God's teachings -• Prayer for guidance, wisdom, and protection from God -• Singing a song about God's Word as a lamp unto their feet and light unto their path -• A song is sung with the cadets -• The priestly blessing is recited -• A call to be a godly example in the world -• Cadets are encouraged to participate and help lead singing -• A prayer or dedication to living for Jesus is given \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, February 23, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, February 23, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3d0986c75fc086514856fac83baa85b062011c56..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, February 23, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1368 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 1.58] I know that we are. -[2.48 --> 7.00] And God has just amazingly moved during the time of prayer and worship. -[7.74 --> 13.50] And I think that's what some of the people in this room saw when they saw us play live. -[15.06 --> 17.22] And just want to encourage us to do more of that. -[17.40 --> 18.78] God is blessing something. -[20.10 --> 21.34] Hey, let's grab onto it. -[21.92 --> 23.40] This life is too short. -[23.58 --> 29.16] It's too complicated for us to worry about things that we want to do. -[30.00 --> 32.00] All we want to do is go out, my God. -[33.40 --> 39.20] When Joey came to us about to do the Praise album, it was supposed to be his two or three song thing. -[40.28 --> 41.18] I thought that was cool. -[41.90 --> 44.64] And then they had a meeting with Alan. -[44.84 --> 48.74] Alan made some comments about, well, I'll do a ten song thing. -[48.80 --> 49.38] I'll be into that. -[49.38 --> 50.26] And then he came. -[50.84 --> 51.46] Then he was excited. -[51.58 --> 52.60] He called us up and decided about it. -[54.46 --> 56.06] We thought they all lost it. -[56.06 --> 61.84] We had a meeting before we went to go tea to meet to make sure we were all going to stand together and say no to the ten song. -[63.28 --> 64.38] We had bars and nobles. -[64.52 --> 66.68] And we were about to come be able to think about, guys, we've got to stick together on this. -[66.76 --> 68.08] And they'll believe in what we're trying to do. -[68.18 --> 70.70] They're just going to try to make some praise band and all this stuff. -[71.70 --> 73.54] And God just flipped us upside down. -[73.54 --> 83.72] And as a prelude, if tomorrow this whole album falls to pieces for some reason, at the very least, God has brought me back to a place where I was four years ago. -[83.80 --> 84.92] I was excited about servanthood. -[85.42 --> 87.10] I didn't care about where I was going in the world. -[87.76 --> 90.08] At the very least, my marriage is stronger. -[90.54 --> 91.60] My relationship with God is stronger. -[92.08 --> 94.50] And if all this goes tomorrow, praise God. -[94.50 --> 99.10] I'm so happy that you used whatever is happening right now in all our lives to bring me this point. -[124.50 --> 148.50] There is a truth older than the ages. -[148.50 --> 154.46] There is a promise of things yet to come. -[155.46 --> 160.92] There is one born for our salvation. -[162.76 --> 164.00] Jesus. -[167.26 --> 173.42] There is a light that overwhelms the darkness. -[173.42 --> 179.80] There is a kingdom that forever reigns. -[180.38 --> 187.18] There is freedom from the chains that bind us. -[187.76 --> 189.00] Jesus. -[190.92 --> 192.08] Jesus. -[192.08 --> 196.62] Who walks on the waters. -[196.62 --> 199.62] Who speaks to the sea. -[200.00 --> 205.22] Who stands in the fire beside me. -[206.10 --> 208.98] He roars like a lion. -[209.26 --> 212.12] He bled as the lamb. -[212.62 --> 218.04] He carries my healing in His hands. -[218.04 --> 220.16] Jesus -[220.16 --> 229.56] There is a name I call in times of trouble -[229.56 --> 235.78] There is a song that comforts in the night -[235.78 --> 242.18] There is a voice that calms a storm that rages -[242.18 --> 248.24] He is Jesus, Jesus -[248.24 --> 255.72] Who walks on the waters, who speaks to the sea -[255.72 --> 261.38] Who stands in the fire beside me -[261.38 --> 268.24] He roars like a lion, He bread as a lamb -[268.24 --> 273.82] He carries my healing in His name -[273.82 --> 276.26] Jesus -[276.26 --> 282.30] Messiah -[282.30 --> 285.46] My Savior -[285.46 --> 292.18] There is power in Your name -[292.18 --> 298.02] You're my rocket, my redeemer -[298.02 --> 304.62] There is power in Your name -[304.62 --> 307.34] In Your name -[307.34 --> 314.90] You walk on the waters -[314.90 --> 317.94] You speak to the sea -[317.94 --> 323.48] You stand in the fire beside me -[323.48 --> 327.38] You roar like a lion -[327.38 --> 330.56] You blend as a lamb -[330.56 --> 335.84] You carry my healing in Your hands -[335.84 --> 339.86] God, You walk on the waters -[339.86 --> 342.90] You speak to the sea -[342.90 --> 348.44] You stand in the fire beside me -[348.44 --> 352.30] You roar like a lion -[352.30 --> 355.52] You lay as a lamb -[355.52 --> 361.60] You carry my healing in Your hands -[361.60 --> 363.46] Jesus -[363.46 --> 363.50] Jesus -[363.50 --> 368.70] There is no one like You -[368.70 --> 369.82] Jesus -[369.82 --> 375.38] There is no one like You -[375.38 --> 379.82] Jesus -[379.82 --> 381.82] Jesus -[381.82 --> 391.58] There is no one like You -[391.58 --> 392.28] Jesus -[392.28 --> 410.80] Here we stand, here we are -[410.80 --> 414.12] With all our wounds and battle scars -[414.12 --> 417.84] From all the storms and all the wars -[417.84 --> 422.32] together -[422.32 --> 431.32] we had no way of knowing when -[431.32 --> 434.72] we started way back there and then -[434.72 --> 438.34] how the road would twist and turn and bend -[438.34 --> 440.88] we just knew we belonged -[440.88 --> 442.88] together -[447.84 --> 454.84] and if it wasn't for god's mercy and his grace -[454.84 --> 461.84] there's no way we would be standing in this place -[461.84 --> 470.84] but because he has been faithful every step along the way -[470.84 --> 475.84] here we are -[475.84 --> 482.84] together -[482.84 --> 485.84] we've climbed up mountains higher than -[485.84 --> 489.84] we're ever in our hopes and plans -[489.84 --> 492.84] we've held on to each other's hand -[492.84 --> 496.84] watched miracles unfold -[496.84 --> 503.84] together -[503.84 --> 509.84] we've crawled on our hands and knees through valleys cold and dark and deep -[509.84 --> 516.84] and we're not even sure if we can make it out alive together -[516.84 --> 523.84] together -[523.84 --> 529.84] and if it wasn't for god's mercy and his grace -[529.84 --> 533.84] there's no way we would be standing in this place -[533.84 --> 536.84] we're not even sure if we can make it out of this place -[536.84 --> 540.84] but because he has been free for every step along the way -[540.84 --> 541.84] step along the way -[541.84 --> 547.84] here we are -[547.84 --> 550.84] together -[550.84 --> 555.84] together -[555.84 --> 556.84] together -[556.84 --> 558.84] together -[558.84 --> 562.84] together -[562.84 --> 565.84] together -[565.84 --> 569.84] together -[569.84 --> 570.84] together -[570.84 --> 573.84] together -[573.84 --> 575.84] together -[575.84 --> 583.84] and -[583.84 --> 590.84] Because he has been faithful every step along the way. -[590.84 --> 597.84] Here be the Lord. -[597.84 --> 604.84] Together. -[604.84 --> 611.84] Together. -[613.84 --> 615.84] Together. -[615.84 --> 617.84] Together. -[625.84 --> 635.84] In the last three of them. -[635.84 --> 653.52] Let me take a look at what it is. -[653.52 --> 660.52] So why would I let worries spill my breath? -[660.52 --> 664.52] Even the roses -[664.52 --> 669.52] You have clothed in brilliant red -[669.52 --> 676.52] Still I'm the one you love more than this -[676.52 --> 680.52] You give me everything -[680.52 --> 684.52] You give me everything -[684.52 --> 691.52] You give me everything I need -[691.52 --> 698.52] You give me everything I need -[698.52 --> 702.52] You give me everything I need -[702.52 --> 706.52] You give me everything I need -[706.52 --> 713.52] Even the oceans -[713.52 --> 717.52] Push and pull at your command -[717.52 --> 724.52] So you can still my heart with your head -[724.52 --> 728.52] You tell the seasons -[728.52 --> 733.52] When it's time for them to turn -[733.52 --> 739.52] So I would trust you even when it hurts -[739.52 --> 743.52] You give me everything -[743.52 --> 747.52] You give me everything -[747.52 --> 750.52] You give me everything -[750.52 --> 751.52] You give me everything -[751.52 --> 753.52] You give me everything -[754.52 --> 755.52] You give me everything -[755.52 --> 766.40] I need you give me everything you give me everything -[766.40 --> 772.40] you give me everything -[774.64 --> 784.80] when i can't see you lead me when i can't hear you show me when i can't stand -[784.80 --> 787.52] you carry me -[790.96 --> 799.68] when i'm lost you will find me when i'm with you are mighty -[806.64 --> 813.60] you give me everything you give me everything -[814.80 --> 819.52] you give me everything -[819.52 --> 823.52] i need -[823.52 --> 827.52] you give me everything -[827.52 --> 831.52] you give me everything -[831.52 --> 836.24] you give me everything -[836.24 --> 838.24] i need -[838.24 --> 840.24] you give me everything -[840.24 --> 844.24] you give me everything -[844.24 --> 850.24] everything -[850.24 --> 858.96] you give me everything -[858.96 --> 862.96] you give me everything -[862.96 --> 867.68] you give me everything -[867.68 --> 874.40] you give me everything -[874.40 --> 876.40] you give me everything -[876.40 --> 878.40] you give me everything -[878.40 --> 880.40] you the way -[880.40 --> 882.40] you give me everything -[882.40 --> 884.40] You -[912.40 --> 921.40] you is everything I know fails to compare to you and you alone -[921.40 --> 933.40] taken by your majesty I am overcome by the power of what your hand has done -[933.40 --> 940.40] yeah I can never quite express the beauty of your holiness -[940.40 --> 945.40] you're the holy one -[945.40 --> 951.40] I can never quite define the way you change this heart of mine -[951.40 --> 956.40] you're the holy one -[956.40 --> 961.40] you're the holy one -[961.40 --> 965.40] you're the holy one -[970.40 --> 978.40] there's no counting all the ways -[978.40 --> 981.40] you and men so true -[981.40 --> 983.40] faithful to the end -[983.40 --> 986.40] you're faithful through and through -[986.40 --> 989.40] you are more than wonderful -[989.40 --> 992.40] you are everything -[992.40 --> 994.40] you mean more than love -[994.40 --> 998.40] more than life to me -[998.40 --> 1000.40] yeah -[1000.40 --> 1004.40] I can never quite express the beauty of your holiness -[1004.40 --> 1005.40] you -[1005.40 --> 1007.40] you -[1007.40 --> 1009.40] you -[1009.40 --> 1011.40] you -[1011.40 --> 1014.40] you -[1014.40 --> 1016.40] you -[1016.40 --> 1018.40] you -[1018.40 --> 1020.40] you -[1020.40 --> 1022.40] you -[1022.40 --> 1024.40] you -[1024.40 --> 1026.40] you -[1026.40 --> 1039.40] you -[1039.40 --> 1041.40] you -[1041.40 --> 1043.40] you -[1043.40 --> 1058.40] you -[1073.40 --> 1086.40] you -[1086.40 --> 1088.40] you -[1103.40 --> 1116.40] you -[1116.40 --> 1117.40] you -[1117.40 --> 1118.40] you -[1118.40 --> 1120.40] you -[1120.40 --> 1122.40] you -[1122.40 --> 1124.40] you -[1124.40 --> 1127.40] you -[1127.40 --> 1143.40] you -[1143.40 --> 1143.72] you -[1143.72 --> 1146.40] you -[1146.40 --> 1147.40] you -[1147.40 --> 1153.82] to hear from our cadets and their counselors and learn about what they've been up to in this past -[1153.82 --> 1161.06] year and to share this service of celebration and worship with them. As we gather here for -[1161.06 --> 1166.16] worship at Emanuel, we've got a couple announcements that we want to just put out in front of you. -[1167.06 --> 1174.26] And so the first is just a big thank you to everyone who participated in the coldest night -[1174.26 --> 1182.56] of the year walk yesterday or who donated in support of that. We are at Emanuel $600 away from -[1182.56 --> 1189.94] our goal of $3,000 in fundraising for that. So if you are looking for an opportunity to fundraise -[1189.94 --> 1196.72] for something, you can find the link to donate still open today and into next week in the e-bulletins -[1196.72 --> 1205.96] and midweek memos and things like that. Also, tonight is 2020 for the youth in our youth program. -[1206.08 --> 1210.12] If you have any questions about that, Pastor Kevin will happily address them for you. -[1211.22 --> 1218.32] And then next Saturday is worship at Sunridge. And so Sunridge is a retirement to seniors living -[1218.32 --> 1223.46] facility up the hill. We send a group there on the first Saturday of every month to worship with some -[1223.46 --> 1229.34] of the residents there. That's happening this coming Saturday at 2 o'clock. And everyone is invited to -[1229.34 --> 1238.34] join and to gather with those who worship there. And then lastly, Mexico mission team is looking for -[1238.34 --> 1245.70] a few volunteers to drop off at the airport and then pick up 10 days later. And so if you're willing -[1245.70 --> 1254.18] to drive to Seattle SeaTac on the 15th, leaving here at 5 a.m., they would love that. And so would you. -[1255.98 --> 1263.46] And if you're willing or some others of you are willing to drive on the 25th to Seattle SeaTac for -[1263.46 --> 1269.52] 5 p.m., that would be excellent. If you are willing to do that, you can either talk to myself or Kevin -[1269.52 --> 1276.48] or Brandon and we'll get you those details and particulars there. But think about that. It would be great -[1276.48 --> 1284.36] if we could get, I think we're going to need two, probably even three vans this year going. So let's be mindful -[1284.36 --> 1291.36] of that. I think that's it for announcements. I'm getting one nod saying that's it. So I'm going to invite you as you are -[1291.36 --> 1299.02] able to stand and we're going to come into God's presence in worship and in song, in prayer and in word this morning. -[1299.20 --> 1305.96] And so I'm going to invite you to receive God's blessing as we meet him in this place together. -[1306.34 --> 1308.64] Receive the blessing of our God this morning in worship. -[1310.08 --> 1317.66] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, Son, and our Savior, -[1317.66 --> 1321.90] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. -[1322.42 --> 1325.34] I'm going to invite you to turn to those around you and welcome them into worship this morning. -[1325.34 --> 1325.38] Amen. -[1347.66 --> 1365.62] Good morning. Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 92. -[1365.62 --> 1374.94] It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your name, O Most High, proclaiming your love -[1374.94 --> 1383.78] in the morning and your faithfulness at night. Cadets and all here and online, let us all join -[1383.78 --> 1390.06] our voices with God's family here as we sing of his love and his faithfulness. -[1390.06 --> 1420.04] In my wrestling and in my downfall, -[1420.04 --> 1428.54] In my failure, you won't walk out. Your great love will lead me through. -[1429.32 --> 1437.16] You are the peace in my troubled sea. You are the peace in my troubled sea. -[1439.94 --> 1448.20] In the silence, you won't let go. In the questions, your truth will hold. -[1448.20 --> 1456.64] Your great love will lead me through. You are the peace in my troubled sea. -[1456.64 --> 1475.64] My lighthouse, my lighthouse, shining in the darkness. I will follow you, O My Lighthouse, My Lighthouse. -[1475.64 --> 1481.64] I will trust the promise. You will carry me safe to shore. -[1481.64 --> 1493.64] Safe to shore. Safe to shore. Safe to shore. Safe to shore. -[1493.64 --> 1505.14] I won't fear. I won't fear what tomorrow brings. With each morning, I'll rise and sing. -[1505.14 --> 1513.64] My God's love will lead me through. You are the peace in my troubled sea. -[1513.64 --> 1525.64] My lighthouse, my lighthouse, my lighthouse. My lighthouse, my lighthouse. -[1525.64 --> 1542.64] I will trust the promise. You will carry me safe to shore. Safe to shore. -[1542.64 --> 1550.64] Safe to shore. Safe to shore. Safe to shore. -[1554.64 --> 1562.64] Fire before us. You're the brightest. You will lead us through the storm. -[1562.64 --> 1578.64] Fire before us. You will lead us through the storm. -[1578.64 --> 1580.64] Fire before us. You're the brightest. You will lead us through the storm. -[1580.64 --> 1590.64] Fire before us. You're the brightest. It is, O My Lighthouse. -[1590.64 --> 1596.64] Fire before us. You are the brightest. You are the brightest. -[1596.64 --> 1602.64] Fire before us. In the flowers. -[1602.64 --> 1604.64] Fire before us. -[1604.64 --> 1608.64] Fire before us. -[1608.64 --> 1610.64] safe to show. -[1638.64 --> 1652.24] My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness. -[1654.24 --> 1667.24] I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly trust in Jesus' name. -[1668.64 --> 1684.74] My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness. -[1684.74 --> 1699.74] I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly trust in Jesus' name. -[1699.74 --> 1701.74] Amen. -[1701.74 --> 1716.74] Christ alone, cornerstone, weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[1716.74 --> 1728.74] Through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[1728.74 --> 1746.74] When darkness seems to hide His face, I rest on His unchanging grace. -[1746.74 --> 1760.74] In every high and stormy game, my anger holds within the veil. -[1760.74 --> 1768.74] My anger holds within the veil. -[1768.74 --> 1783.74] Christ alone, cornerstone, weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[1783.74 --> 1795.74] Through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[1795.74 --> 1813.74] When He shall come with trumpet sound, O may I there in Him be found. -[1813.74 --> 1820.74] Dressed in His righteousness alone, -[1820.74 --> 1821.74] Dressed in His righteousness alone, -[1821.74 --> 1828.74] Faultless stand before the throne. -[1828.74 --> 1843.74] Christ alone, cornerstone, weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[1843.74 --> 1855.74] Through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[1855.74 --> 1870.74] Christ alone, cornerstone, weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[1870.74 --> 1883.74] Through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[1883.74 --> 1885.74] You may be seated. -[1885.74 --> 1886.74] Invite Andrew up. -[1886.74 --> 1888.74] Good morning. -[1888.74 --> 1911.74] My name is Andrew Ruckaik, and I'm the leader of the Cadet Group here at Langley Emanuel. -[1911.74 --> 1917.74] I'm just going to start off this morning by sharing a little bit about what the Cadets have been up to this year. -[1917.74 --> 1926.74] First off, this year our Cadet Group consists of 29 boys, with about half of those boys coming from outside of our local church community. -[1926.74 --> 1938.74] On a typical Cadet evening, we always start with our Cadet landmarks, which we'll be going through in a few moments with the boys, followed by a time of devotion, some games, and some sort of project. -[1938.74 --> 1943.74] We end each meeting with singing Living for Jesus. -[1943.74 --> 1948.74] Some of the special evenings that we've done this year so far, we did a pumpkin carving evening. -[1948.74 --> 1955.74] We also went to an ice hockey game for Trinity Western, and we've got a few more things planned before the end of the year. -[1955.74 --> 1965.74] Some of the projects the boys have been working on this year include propeller cars, a mini disc golf game, mouse trap cars, and they're currently working on a pencil box. -[1965.74 --> 1972.74] In the coming weeks, we're also going to be making model rockets with the boys that we'll be launching off at the end of the year. -[1972.74 --> 1977.74] If you're interested, you can check out some of these projects on the table in the foyer after the service. -[1977.74 --> 1986.74] For devotions this year, we've been looking at our theme for Cadets, which is Lead the Way, which is based off of 1 Timothy 4, verse 12. -[1986.74 --> 1987.74] That reads, -[1987.74 --> 1996.74] Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity. -[1996.74 --> 2003.74] So through our time of devotion, each meeting, the Cadets have been learning how to combine leading the way with their living for Jesus, -[2003.74 --> 2006.74] by trying to set an example for others in all areas of their life. -[2006.74 --> 2013.74] More specifically, we've been discussing how they can lead the way by setting an example in the words that they use, -[2013.74 --> 2021.74] their actions towards others, showing love through service, being examples of faith, and by having hearts and minds that are kept pure. -[2021.74 --> 2025.74] So that's just a little bit about what we've been up to this year. -[2025.74 --> 2030.74] At this time, I'm going to be going through the landmarks with the Cadets. -[2030.74 --> 2034.74] So I think I'm going to come down in front of you guys here. -[2034.74 --> 2038.74] I'm going to ask the Cadets and the leaders to stand. -[2041.74 --> 2043.74] All right, Cadets, attention. -[2043.74 --> 2047.74] Cadets, what is your motto? -[2047.74 --> 2051.74] Cadets, what is your verse? -[2051.74 --> 2053.74] Cadets? -[2054.74 --> 2058.74] Cadets, what is your noun? -[2058.74 --> 2060.74] Cadets, what IS your code? -[2077.74 --> 2080.74] Cadets, what IS your pledge? -[2080.74 --> 2098.46] All right, thank you. -[2098.46 --> 2099.24] You can have a seat. -[2099.24 --> 2117.00] Next, I'll be leading everyone through a responsive reading, which should be up on the screen. -[2117.00 --> 2119.00] Hopefully. -[2119.00 --> 2122.66] Okay. -[2122.66 --> 2124.62] This year's cadet theme is Lead the Way. -[2124.62 --> 2128.82] The cadets are learning how God directs and trains them as leaders. -[2128.82 --> 2150.58] Cadets must be an example in Christian speech. -[2150.58 --> 2154.52] Cadets must be an example in their Christian conduct. -[2154.52 --> 2173.52] He will pray for you and be all about you, serving in the kingdom. -[2173.52 --> 2180.52] Cadets must be an example displaying Christian love. -[2180.52 --> 2185.52] Cadets must show their Christian faith in all areas of life. -[2185.52 --> 2192.52] Cadets must be an example of a Christian faith in all areas of life. -[2192.52 --> 2200.52] Cadets must be an example of a Christian faith in all areas of life. -[2200.52 --> 2207.52] Cadets must be an example of a Christian faith in all areas of life. -[2207.52 --> 2213.52] He will pray for you and be all about you, serving in all areas of life. -[2213.52 --> 2215.52] Cadets must show purity in their lives. -[2215.52 --> 2232.52] Cadets must be an example of a Christian faith in all areas of life. -[2232.52 --> 2234.52] Cadets must be an example of a Christian faith in all areas of life. -[2234.52 --> 2254.52] Cadets must be an example of a Christian faith in all areas of life. -[2254.52 --> 2258.44] I'll let any of the values that we've heard of. -[2259.06 --> 2262.40] Let's set an example to the leaders in speech, -[2262.90 --> 2266.56] honor, love, and faith, and truth. -[2266.56 --> 2270.56] Let's set an example to the leaders in speech, honor, and love. -[2270.56 --> 2285.86] Why don't we stand together and offer a few more songs to go. -[2300.56 --> 2330.54] Let's set an example to the leaders in speech, honor, and faith, and truth. -[2330.56 --> 2360.54] Let's set an example to the leaders in speech, honor, and faith, and truth. -[2360.54 --> 2365.50] And in all I do bring you honor and faith. -[2365.82 --> 2373.72] How I love you, great and mighty King. -[2373.72 --> 2383.56] You are faithful through the ages you never changed. -[2383.56 --> 2389.56] Be my guide for the road ahead. -[2389.72 --> 2394.02] Should I feel this way, you are just and good. -[2395.02 --> 2402.70] I want to trust in you, and in all I do bring you honor and faith. -[2402.70 --> 2410.94] How I love you, great and mighty King. -[2410.94 --> 2419.68] You are faithful through the ages you never changed. -[2419.68 --> 2426.94] How I love you, great and mighty King. -[2426.94 --> 2438.00] You are faithful through the ages you never changed. -[2438.00 --> 2446.44] How I love you, great and mighty King. -[2446.44 --> 2448.82] You are faithful through the ages you never changed. -[2448.82 --> 2452.18] You are faithful through the ages you never changed. -[2452.18 --> 2454.56] How I love you, great and mighty King. -[2454.56 --> 2466.86] How I love you, great and mighty King. -[2466.86 --> 2472.38] Over all the earth you reign on high -[2472.38 --> 2476.84] Every mountain stream, every sunset sky -[2476.84 --> 2482.20] But my one request, Lord my only aim -[2482.20 --> 2485.76] Is that you reign in me again -[2485.76 --> 2490.30] Lord reign in me, reign in your power -[2490.30 --> 2494.84] Over all my dreams, in my darkest hour -[2494.84 --> 2500.10] You are the Lord of all I am -[2500.10 --> 2503.84] So won't you reign in me again -[2503.84 --> 2517.22] Over every thought, over every word -[2517.22 --> 2521.58] May my life reflect the beauty of my Lord -[2521.58 --> 2526.84] Cause you mean more to me than any earthly thing -[2526.84 --> 2530.42] So won't you reign in me again -[2530.42 --> 2534.98] Lord reign in me, reign in your power -[2534.98 --> 2538.84] Over all my dreams, in my darkest hour -[2539.40 --> 2543.84] You are the Lord of all I am -[2544.60 --> 2548.10] So won't you reign in me again -[2548.10 --> 2552.62] Lord reign in me, reign in your power -[2552.62 --> 2557.04] Over all my dreams, in my darkest hour -[2557.04 --> 2562.26] You are the Lord of all I am -[2562.26 --> 2565.90] So won't you reign in me again -[2565.90 --> 2570.36] So won't you reign in me again -[2570.36 --> 2578.36] So won't you reign in me again -[2578.36 --> 2583.62] So won't you reign in me again -[2583.62 --> 2585.26] So won't you reign in me again -[2585.36 --> 2586.32] So won't you reign in me again -[2588.46 --> 2591.48] Ones Lord not only we Abu'r -[2591.48 --> 2600.64] It is now time to continue our worship through the giving of our offerings. -[2601.60 --> 2605.42] Today's offering is for the ministries of this church and also for the Calvinist Cadet Corps. -[2606.38 --> 2610.74] The Calvinist Cadet Corps is the larger organization that our cadet club is part of. -[2611.38 --> 2617.48] It includes cadet clubs across Canada, the United States, the Ukraine, New Zealand, Australia, -[2617.70 --> 2619.36] Kenya, Uganda, and South Sudan. -[2619.36 --> 2627.84] The Calvinist Cadet Corps offers a structured program and resources specifically designed to help boys grow spiritually in all areas of their life. -[2628.46 --> 2630.92] Devotional, mental, physical, and social. -[2631.46 --> 2634.96] With their goal of encouraging them to live out the motto, Living for Jesus. -[2636.20 --> 2640.90] As an independent ministry, the Calvinist Cadet Corps depends on your generous gifts and offerings -[2640.90 --> 2644.68] to continue providing ministry materials for boys and for counselors. -[2645.52 --> 2647.36] Please give as the Lord has blessed you. -[2647.36 --> 2655.78] And I think during the offering there will be a slideshow playing with some pictures from the past year from cadets. -[2655.78 --> 2655.88] Thank you. -[2677.36 --> 2686.66] The Lord has blessed you. -[2686.66 --> 2690.74] Let all the earth rejoice. -[2690.74 --> 2693.94] All the earth rejoice. -[2695.86 --> 2700.10] He wraps Himself in light. -[2700.10 --> 2709.10] And darkness strikes too high. -[2709.10 --> 2709.32] And trembles at His voice. -[2709.40 --> 2712.46] Trembles at His voice. -[2713.00 --> 2718.36] How great is our God. -[2718.36 --> 2724.62] Say with me how great is our God. -[2724.62 --> 2727.92] And all will see how great. -[2727.92 --> 2733.92] How great is our God. -[2733.92 --> 2736.62] Age to age. -[2736.62 --> 2742.62] Age to age He stands. -[2742.62 --> 2743.62] Age to age He stands. -[2743.62 --> 2749.62] Age to age He stands. -[2749.62 --> 2751.42] And time is in His hands. -[2751.92 --> 2753.50] Beginning and the end. -[2753.50 --> 2755.04] Beginning and the end. -[2755.04 --> 2757.46] And God hit three in one. -[2757.46 --> 2761.68] God hit three in one. -[2763.24 --> 2767.44] Father, Spirit, Son, -[2768.44 --> 2770.64] the Lion and the Lamb, -[2771.32 --> 2775.10] the Lion and the Lamb. -[2775.10 --> 2780.14] How great is our God. -[2780.38 --> 2786.28] Don't you see me how great is our God. -[2786.28 --> 2790.14] All will see how great, -[2790.72 --> 2796.46] how great is our God. -[2796.94 --> 2798.20] The name of all names. -[2799.20 --> 2804.78] For the name above all names, -[2804.78 --> 2811.00] you are worthy of all praise. -[2811.00 --> 2820.88] And my heart will see how great is our God. -[2820.88 --> 2823.74] Oh, He's the name. -[2823.74 --> 2829.42] He's the name above all names. -[2829.42 --> 2835.52] You are worthy of all praise. -[2835.52 --> 2845.52] And my heart will see how great is our God. -[2845.52 --> 2853.52] See how great, how great is our God. -[2853.52 --> 2859.52] Sing me how great is our God. -[2859.52 --> 2863.52] And all will see how great, -[2863.52 --> 2868.52] how great is our God. -[2868.52 --> 2871.52] He's the name above all names. -[2871.52 --> 2875.52] Oh, He's the name above all names. -[2875.52 --> 2880.52] And my heart will see how great is our God. -[2880.52 --> 2884.52] He's the name above all names. -[2884.52 --> 2887.52] And my heart will see how great is our God. -[2887.52 --> 2889.52] And He's the name above all names. -[2889.52 --> 2891.52] He is worthy of all names. -[2891.52 --> 2893.52] He is worthy of all praise. -[2893.52 --> 2895.90] He is worthy of all names. -[2895.90 --> 2898.52] He is the name above all names. -[2898.52 --> 2907.86] He is worthy of all names. -[2909.44 --> 2913.86] In my heart I will see how great is our God. -[2913.98 --> 2917.32] He is our God. -[2917.52 --> 2923.32] ash 그리고 tamb을 Danielco be worth all names. -[2923.52 --> 2935.90] Good morning, everybody. -[2936.10 --> 2941.58] Can I have preschool all the way up to grade four, but the cadets can stay seated? -[2942.78 --> 2943.54] You were. -[2943.68 --> 2944.10] Come on. -[2950.82 --> 2951.60] You're okay. -[2953.52 --> 2954.72] Perfect. -[2954.98 --> 2955.26] Come on. -[2955.46 --> 2956.10] It's okay. -[2956.40 --> 2956.86] It's okay. -[2957.68 --> 2958.00] Okay. -[2959.92 --> 2961.44] I have a question for you guys. -[2961.44 --> 2969.34] Have you ever wanted something so badly that you were so excited and you talked about it -[2969.34 --> 2977.44] for months and months and months on end for like maybe something like a special trip or -[2978.20 --> 2981.02] a birthday or something. -[2981.22 --> 2981.36] What? -[2982.06 --> 2983.12] You had a birthday? -[2983.52 --> 2989.56] And you thought about like a special gift where you wanted it so badly and you were -[2989.56 --> 2991.22] excited about it? -[2991.60 --> 2993.52] I put the flag at the tree. -[2993.76 --> 2994.86] Oh, cool. -[2994.86 --> 3001.22] So today in children's worship time, we are going to talk about things that we need and -[3001.22 --> 3002.86] things that we want. -[3003.66 --> 3013.50] And also we're going to talk about how sometimes certain drinks will quench our thirst with our -[3013.50 --> 3014.64] needs and our wants. -[3014.64 --> 3018.28] And Jesus will quench our thirst with everything. -[3018.28 --> 3019.62] Okay, guys. -[3019.72 --> 3020.62] So everybody stand up. -[3020.68 --> 3024.74] We're going to go in more detail in children's worship time so you can tell your moms and dads -[3024.74 --> 3025.34] after. -[3025.70 --> 3027.52] So turn around and look at the congregation. -[3027.52 --> 3030.78] Here we go. -[3030.78 --> 3032.56] One, two, three. -[3032.56 --> 3033.72] The Lord. -[3035.22 --> 3037.00] And also with you. -[3037.00 --> 3066.70] Good morning. -[3066.70 --> 3067.70] I'm Eric here. -[3067.70 --> 3069.16] I'm an elder at Emmanuel. -[3069.34 --> 3071.58] I'll lead us in our church family prayer this morning. -[3071.58 --> 3078.64] Lord Jesus, today we come to you on our family prayer on Cadet Sunday. -[3078.86 --> 3082.92] We thank you for the leadership in our church from the men leading the cadet group. -[3083.22 --> 3088.74] May they continue to provide the young men with leadership and continue to show us how -[3088.74 --> 3092.12] it is to be leading the way with living for Jesus. -[3093.26 --> 3094.20] Praise the Lord. -[3094.88 --> 3096.42] Sing to the Lord a new song. -[3097.00 --> 3099.22] Sing to the Lord all the years. -[3099.22 --> 3102.22] Give thanks to the Lord for he is good. -[3102.50 --> 3103.74] His love endures forever. -[3105.50 --> 3108.68] Many people in our circles are still struggling with health concerns. -[3109.32 --> 3114.60] We think of Lena as she's still continuing to be in the hospital with the hope of coming -[3114.60 --> 3117.82] home soon with some sort of aid to help as needed. -[3117.82 --> 3123.78] We pray for the rest of the family and friends as they deal with the ever-changing situation. -[3125.38 --> 3128.94] Earlier this month, John V was diagnosed with bladder cancer. -[3129.38 --> 3131.46] He will be starting his treatments later this week. -[3131.72 --> 3134.22] We pray for a complete recovery. -[3134.22 --> 3138.40] We pray for the family and friends as they support him in this journey. -[3139.40 --> 3145.86] We also wanted to think of Tessa, daughter to Jerry, sister to Eneka. -[3147.14 --> 3151.92] We pray that she waits for the test results showing the mass in our lungs and we pray for -[3151.92 --> 3154.96] the healing and the treatment that may be required. -[3154.96 --> 3162.54] At this time, we also think of Tim and Charity Johnson as they're no longer receiving support -[3162.54 --> 3165.32] for their way ministries, which they've had since 2017. -[3165.96 --> 3170.34] So there's uncertainties as to how they'll continue to serve the Native youth gathering -[3170.34 --> 3172.30] in the Shushwap area. -[3172.52 --> 3175.82] We pray for your hand and leadership and guidance in this. -[3176.72 --> 3182.08] Lord, we also think of Jermaine from Sunridge as she's been worshiping with us for the last -[3182.08 --> 3187.08] few years, but she's now moved to Abbotsford for further care, so she won't be amongst -[3187.08 --> 3187.58] us anymore. -[3187.70 --> 3192.28] We pray for finding a community to plug in and still be part of. -[3192.34 --> 3194.32] Lord, thank you for the time she did have with us. -[3196.22 --> 3200.16] This is the time of year where so many of us deal with all sorts of health concerns, -[3200.44 --> 3203.54] some of us known to us, but many struggle in silence. -[3204.24 --> 3206.68] We pray for your healing hand upon us. -[3206.68 --> 3211.44] So do not fear, for I am with you. -[3211.76 --> 3214.28] Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. -[3214.42 --> 3215.46] I will strengthen you. -[3215.62 --> 3216.44] I will help you. -[3216.82 --> 3220.32] I will uphold you in my righteous right hand. -[3220.84 --> 3221.08] Amen. -[3221.08 --> 3222.08] Amen. -[3227.08 --> 3228.24] Thank you. -[3228.24 --> 3229.90] You're going to hop down. -[3247.90 --> 3248.84] Morning, everybody. -[3249.90 --> 3250.92] Morning, cadets. -[3251.88 --> 3253.78] Welcome to Cadet Sunday, all. -[3254.10 --> 3258.16] It's good to see so many of you boys sitting here in the front. -[3258.68 --> 3261.06] Today's sermon's going to look just a little bit different. -[3261.20 --> 3263.38] You can tell already because I'm down here on the floor. -[3264.36 --> 3268.10] And I, church, I'm going to be addressing the cadets mostly. -[3268.78 --> 3273.36] But as I direct this to the cadets, I hope and pray that all of you will be listening -[3273.36 --> 3277.46] with active ears because this message that's going to the cadets is going to be true for -[3277.46 --> 3278.46] all of us here today. -[3278.46 --> 3284.76] And so that's your responsibility to be listening and applying this as we go through it. -[3284.80 --> 3286.24] I'm also going to be preaching from the floor. -[3286.34 --> 3287.24] So that's going to look different. -[3287.32 --> 3290.68] And there's a few things happening around me that I'm going to need a few of your help -[3290.68 --> 3291.02] with. -[3291.08 --> 3291.84] Okay, guys? -[3291.94 --> 3292.44] Is that okay? -[3292.44 --> 3296.60] I have full-size chocolate bars for anybody who helps out and volunteers with me. -[3296.70 --> 3298.40] If you want proof, Austin saw them. -[3298.44 --> 3298.86] Right, Austin? -[3299.02 --> 3300.04] He can vouch for me. -[3300.48 --> 3300.76] All right? -[3300.96 --> 3301.96] So there's your bribe. -[3302.10 --> 3303.22] Bribery is alive and well. -[3303.94 --> 3307.20] First things first, and most important things first. -[3307.32 --> 3308.66] Austin's actually going to come up here. -[3308.70 --> 3312.10] And he's going to read the text from this year. -[3312.10 --> 3313.52] So I'm going to grab the microphone, Austin. -[3313.64 --> 3317.98] You can stand right there at the front, too. -[3318.94 --> 3319.88] There you are, sir. -[3319.88 --> 3324.72] First Timothy 4, 12 to 14. -[3325.44 --> 3330.86] Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers -[3330.86 --> 3334.72] in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity. -[3335.30 --> 3342.60] Until I come, devote yourselves to the public, reading of Scripture, to preaching, and to teaching. -[3342.60 --> 3350.24] Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy when your body of elders laid their hands on you. -[3351.18 --> 3351.74] Thank you. -[3355.18 --> 3355.78] All right. -[3355.92 --> 3357.46] Austin, thank you so much for doing that. -[3357.54 --> 3359.32] The Word of the Lord. -[3360.52 --> 3365.70] So, boys, when you read a passage like that, or any passage in the Bible, do you ever ask yourself, -[3365.96 --> 3368.74] who wrote that, and who were they writing that to? -[3369.22 --> 3369.72] Do you guys do that? -[3369.72 --> 3372.02] That's an important question to ask when we open the Bible. -[3372.02 --> 3373.90] It's always good to ask those sort of things. -[3374.04 --> 3382.32] And so, here, in this case, the passage that we read was written by Paul, an apostle named Paul. -[3382.36 --> 3384.10] And he wrote it to his friend named Timothy. -[3384.22 --> 3385.38] That's why the book's called Timothy. -[3385.44 --> 3386.20] That makes sense, right? -[3386.52 --> 3390.00] But why was Paul writing to Timothy? -[3390.82 --> 3396.34] I want to give you a little bit of a snapshot of who Timothy was and why Paul would be writing to him. -[3396.56 --> 3397.76] And we're going to do that right now. -[3397.76 --> 3401.16] So, it's time for True Stories with Pastor Kevin. -[3401.34 --> 3401.66] All right? -[3402.02 --> 3403.08] Here we go. -[3404.04 --> 3405.32] The story of Timothy. -[3405.44 --> 3406.64] The true story of Timothy. -[3406.74 --> 3407.10] Are we ready? -[3408.10 --> 3413.70] There once was a boy named Timothy who grew up in Lystra, a city where most people didn't follow God. -[3414.10 --> 3421.78] His dad was Greek, but his mom, Eunice, that was her name, and his grandmother, Lois, were both Jewish. -[3421.78 --> 3428.12] They both loved God, and they taught Timothy the scriptures from a young age and helped him grow strong in faith. -[3428.12 --> 3433.50] Well, one day, Paul came to Lystra, and he noticed Timothy's great faith. -[3433.88 --> 3436.38] He invited Timothy to join him on his missions trips. -[3436.86 --> 3438.92] So, naturally, Timothy said yes. -[3439.08 --> 3445.50] And he traveled all over Asia with Paul, helping share the gospel and encouraging different churches wherever they went. -[3445.50 --> 3451.06] Over time, Timothy became one of Paul's most trusted partners in ministry. -[3451.06 --> 3455.60] And he helped Paul deliver important letters that helped strengthen churches. -[3455.74 --> 3459.92] Letters like 1 Corinthians and 1 Thessalonians, which we've been hearing about lately, right? -[3459.92 --> 3467.52] Eventually, Paul gave Timothy a huge job, leading a church in Ephesus. -[3468.10 --> 3472.56] Now, this church was a tough place where false teachers were causing a lot of problems. -[3472.70 --> 3478.04] So, to encourage him, Paul wrote Timothy letters like the one that we read today. -[3478.64 --> 3481.48] And Timothy's favorite animal was bears. -[3481.96 --> 3482.84] The end. -[3483.56 --> 3484.92] I made up the last part. -[3485.02 --> 3486.48] Everything else, though, was true. -[3486.86 --> 3487.90] So, that's Timothy. -[3488.50 --> 3489.58] That's who he is. -[3489.92 --> 3494.64] And that's why Paul is writing to him, because he is this leader in this church in Ephesus. -[3495.16 --> 3499.62] Now, even though that passage that Austin read was written specifically for Timothy, -[3499.92 --> 3505.32] and specifically for his context, the message that he gives him is true for all of us here today. -[3505.94 --> 3506.14] All right? -[3506.16 --> 3512.74] No matter how young we are, we can set an example by how we speak, how we act, how we love, -[3512.80 --> 3515.46] how we have faith, and how we stay pure. -[3515.88 --> 3519.36] So, just like Timothy, we can make a difference in this world for Jesus. -[3519.36 --> 3520.12] Right now. -[3520.96 --> 3524.52] So, we read about this throughout, we can read about this story throughout the whole Bible. -[3524.68 --> 3526.82] And we read about it in that little passage that we read today. -[3526.86 --> 3531.16] And this is sort of the big idea that I want you all to take home with you today, is this. -[3531.84 --> 3537.34] You are never too young to read your Bibles and be a godly example in this world. -[3537.40 --> 3537.58] All right? -[3537.58 --> 3543.90] You're not too young to read your Bibles and be a godly example in this world. -[3544.54 --> 3548.10] So, in this passage today, which I know that you've looked at all year long, -[3548.24 --> 3551.92] Paul tells Timothy to be a godly example as he leads this church. -[3551.98 --> 3553.88] And he lists five ways here. -[3553.94 --> 3555.32] Five ways that we can do that. -[3555.70 --> 3562.38] He needs to be an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity. -[3562.38 --> 3568.78] And like I said, that was specific to Timothy in this place, but it's also for us here today. -[3568.86 --> 3569.52] It's true for us. -[3569.70 --> 3572.98] We're supposed to be examples in our community in all five of those ways. -[3573.14 --> 3576.72] So, we're going to look at all five of them really specifically together, okay? -[3577.20 --> 3578.58] First, we're going to look at speech. -[3579.42 --> 3581.28] How we talk to each other matters. -[3582.16 --> 3583.28] But why do you think that is? -[3584.16 --> 3587.34] Why are we supposed to be an example of how we speak to one another? -[3588.26 --> 3590.60] What damage does our words actually do? -[3590.88 --> 3591.70] Well, I'm going to need some help. -[3592.00 --> 3593.86] First of all, this is where I need your help right away. -[3594.08 --> 3595.62] I need four people to volunteer. -[3595.74 --> 3596.22] Who's going to help? -[3597.16 --> 3600.26] One, two, three, four. -[3600.34 --> 3601.30] We'll get you guys later, okay? -[3601.32 --> 3601.72] I promise. -[3601.84 --> 3602.26] Okay, you four. -[3602.32 --> 3602.74] Come up here. -[3602.76 --> 3603.82] I need you to come around this table. -[3604.32 --> 3604.88] Right here. -[3605.42 --> 3607.20] You're going to go around here. -[3607.98 --> 3609.56] One here, two in the middle, one in the end. -[3609.58 --> 3609.94] Are you ready? -[3610.00 --> 3610.64] Here's the big reveal. -[3610.64 --> 3611.28] You have this end. -[3611.60 --> 3612.94] Here, Lyndon, come this way. -[3613.28 --> 3614.16] Come this way. -[3614.24 --> 3614.72] There we go. -[3614.90 --> 3616.08] And then Malachi, you can go on the end. -[3616.40 --> 3617.32] One, two, three. -[3617.74 --> 3618.82] Oh, it's toothpaste. -[3619.62 --> 3620.76] Who would have thought? -[3621.46 --> 3622.22] Toothpaste and plates. -[3622.34 --> 3623.50] Okay, we're going to do a little bit of a race. -[3623.80 --> 3624.28] This one's yours. -[3624.38 --> 3624.92] This one's yours. -[3625.02 --> 3625.50] This one's yours. -[3625.56 --> 3626.02] This one's yours. -[3626.08 --> 3626.48] Are you ready? -[3626.86 --> 3630.22] We need you to get all of that toothpaste out onto the plate. -[3630.44 --> 3634.32] Try to keep it on the plate, but it's kind of like soap, so it'll wash off. -[3635.24 --> 3636.74] All right, so you guys can go. -[3636.90 --> 3637.56] Get it on the plate. -[3638.12 --> 3639.20] We need it all out. -[3639.40 --> 3640.62] We need it all on your plate. -[3640.62 --> 3641.96] Squeeze it out of that tube. -[3643.28 --> 3644.02] Yeah, good job. -[3644.50 --> 3645.06] Good work. -[3647.38 --> 3648.86] Yeah, as much of it as you can. -[3648.94 --> 3649.38] There you go. -[3650.36 --> 3651.38] You can cheer them on, church. -[3651.46 --> 3654.14] That might encourage them a little bit to, like, get them going. -[3657.38 --> 3657.98] All right. -[3658.08 --> 3659.34] I think you guys have done it. -[3660.10 --> 3660.76] I think you guys have done it. -[3660.76 --> 3661.64] I wasn't very clear. -[3661.88 --> 3664.62] The race wasn't actually getting the toothpaste out of the tube. -[3665.46 --> 3666.68] I just, we needed to get it out of the tube. -[3666.68 --> 3667.26] Okay, you ready? -[3667.34 --> 3667.98] Here's the race. -[3668.62 --> 3672.58] Whoever can put the toothpaste back in the tube the fastest wins. -[3672.82 --> 3674.80] On your mark, get set, go! -[3674.80 --> 3682.10] Is it working? -[3682.84 --> 3683.50] How are we doing? -[3684.90 --> 3685.18] Yeah? -[3686.80 --> 3687.90] It doesn't work, does it? -[3688.20 --> 3689.14] All right, you can put it down. -[3689.18 --> 3690.44] You can just put it down, plop it down. -[3690.72 --> 3692.78] That was a little bit of a red herring challenge. -[3692.98 --> 3694.02] Just wipe it on your clothes. -[3694.12 --> 3695.12] You'll smell like mint all day. -[3695.44 --> 3696.50] All right, you can take a seat. -[3696.58 --> 3697.70] Round of applause for their help. -[3698.64 --> 3699.62] Good job, boys. -[3699.62 --> 3703.76] All right, here's the thing, gentlemen. -[3704.48 --> 3707.32] Our words are like that toothpaste. -[3708.56 --> 3711.78] Once it comes out, you can't put them back in. -[3712.78 --> 3716.30] Once we speak something, you can't take those words back. -[3716.36 --> 3718.44] You can't pretend like you've never said them before. -[3719.12 --> 3719.46] All right? -[3719.60 --> 3721.70] That's why we have to be careful with our words. -[3721.78 --> 3724.12] That's why we have to be an example of our speech. -[3724.44 --> 3726.38] Proverbs 15, verse 1 says this. -[3726.38 --> 3729.88] A gentle answer turns away wrath. -[3730.00 --> 3730.76] That's like anger. -[3731.28 --> 3734.64] But a harsh word stirs up anger. -[3735.04 --> 3736.34] The book of James also talks about... -[3736.34 --> 3737.20] Yeah, Linda, you go ahead. -[3737.40 --> 3738.28] Wash your hands, buddy. -[3739.52 --> 3739.84] They're... -[3739.84 --> 3740.02] Yeah. -[3740.24 --> 3741.22] They'll smell good, though. -[3741.94 --> 3742.80] You guys can all go. -[3742.86 --> 3743.90] If you need to go, just go quick. -[3744.02 --> 3744.40] You're fine. -[3744.46 --> 3744.82] You're fine. -[3744.90 --> 3745.20] Okay, good. -[3746.02 --> 3748.34] The book of James also talks about our words. -[3748.40 --> 3749.42] You know what James talks about? -[3749.86 --> 3752.88] James says that our words are like a spark, -[3753.36 --> 3756.24] and they can light whole forests ablaze. -[3756.84 --> 3758.94] And like the toothpaste, once we say something, -[3759.06 --> 3760.64] it's impossible to put them back. -[3761.10 --> 3763.70] We need to be such good examples of how we speak, -[3764.10 --> 3767.14] because negative words can do a lot of damage. -[3767.54 --> 3767.72] All right? -[3767.74 --> 3770.46] We need to speak calmly and with respect, -[3770.80 --> 3773.28] and not put each other down, but build each other up. -[3773.64 --> 3775.52] Now, this is a message to all of us, though, right? -[3775.54 --> 3776.70] Not just to these boys here. -[3776.98 --> 3778.78] This includes all sorts of things, -[3778.86 --> 3780.82] including our, for you adults out here, -[3780.82 --> 3783.38] and maybe older cadets still, I'm talking to maybe youth as well, -[3783.38 --> 3784.88] our online presence. -[3785.60 --> 3789.86] What we say online also is part of this. -[3790.06 --> 3791.46] What we post is seen forever. -[3791.58 --> 3794.52] Even if you delete something, things have a tendency to linger, -[3794.64 --> 3796.32] just like that classic Cranberry song. -[3797.08 --> 3801.44] When you are commenting online, how are you speaking? -[3802.68 --> 3805.34] Are you an example of right speech in your communities? -[3806.10 --> 3808.20] When you're in a coffee shop or at a restaurant -[3808.20 --> 3811.72] or at the grocery store, how are you speaking to one another? -[3812.38 --> 3813.72] So, church, this is for all of us. -[3814.56 --> 3816.12] But, cadets, you can do this now. -[3816.26 --> 3817.92] You don't have to wait to get older -[3817.92 --> 3819.94] to speak respectfully to each other, -[3820.00 --> 3823.30] to be this example of right speech in our communities. -[3823.84 --> 3824.02] All right? -[3824.08 --> 3824.84] So that's the first one. -[3824.90 --> 3827.02] Be an example of right speech. -[3827.94 --> 3830.18] The second one is right conduct. -[3830.28 --> 3832.08] How are we an example of right conduct? -[3832.22 --> 3833.50] Okay, I want to talk to you guys about something. -[3833.50 --> 3836.66] Who here watched a really awesome sports hockey game this week? -[3838.08 --> 3839.36] You missed it? -[3839.68 --> 3840.88] But have you heard about it? -[3841.04 --> 3842.32] You heard about what happened? -[3842.42 --> 3844.64] Yeah, you guys, everybody knows Canada beat the USA. -[3844.80 --> 3845.96] We all know about that game, right? -[3846.16 --> 3847.68] It was pretty awesome, wasn't it? -[3848.06 --> 3849.04] It was a pretty great game. -[3849.46 --> 3851.62] Now, here's something a little bit weird to think about maybe. -[3851.70 --> 3853.44] I don't think we talk about this in sports too often. -[3854.46 --> 3857.00] When you watched Canada versus the States this week, -[3857.38 --> 3860.30] how many of you were watching the linesmen? -[3862.46 --> 3862.86] Intentionally. -[3863.70 --> 3864.52] Not really, right? -[3864.54 --> 3865.08] Who does that? -[3865.26 --> 3868.30] I mean, we don't really talk about the referees or the linesmen that often, do we? -[3868.84 --> 3869.04] Right? -[3869.10 --> 3869.98] They're just kind of there now. -[3870.04 --> 3871.88] If they're making bad calls, maybe we do. -[3872.16 --> 3873.68] Maybe then all of a sudden we notice them. -[3873.88 --> 3876.20] But if they're not making bad calls and they're just out there, -[3876.28 --> 3878.58] like kind of that finals, we don't really ever notice them. -[3878.84 --> 3881.52] Like, could any of you even tell me one of their names? -[3881.78 --> 3884.12] There was two referees and two linesmen Thursday night. -[3884.22 --> 3884.48] Anybody? -[3884.90 --> 3885.60] What were their names? -[3886.22 --> 3886.38] No? -[3886.46 --> 3886.70] Anybody? -[3887.46 --> 3888.36] What were their names? -[3890.26 --> 3890.62] Yeah! -[3890.88 --> 3891.82] Wow, we got one! -[3891.82 --> 3893.02] Did we just look it up? -[3893.50 --> 3894.52] I believe you. -[3894.76 --> 3897.38] Gord Dwyer and Chris Rooney were the referees. -[3897.48 --> 3898.36] That is very impressive. -[3898.80 --> 3901.44] That's one out of like 300, though, let me point out. -[3901.66 --> 3902.68] My point still stands. -[3903.06 --> 3905.88] The linesmen were Scott Sherry and Johnny Murray. -[3906.24 --> 3909.02] I am certain most of us have never heard those names before. -[3909.68 --> 3910.82] But why do I bring them up? -[3911.42 --> 3912.08] Well, think about this. -[3912.18 --> 3914.64] Can you imagine how that game would have gone if they weren't there? -[3914.64 --> 3916.68] Just think about it. -[3916.70 --> 3917.32] What would have happened? -[3919.08 --> 3920.22] It would have been chaos. -[3920.66 --> 3924.50] We would still be in like last week Saturday's game, the first nine seconds, I think. -[3924.84 --> 3927.94] The referees and linesmen wouldn't have been able to... -[3927.94 --> 3929.58] There would have been chaos everywhere. -[3929.70 --> 3931.12] The players wouldn't have been able to play. -[3931.50 --> 3936.44] Because what the referees and linesmen do is they make sure the game is played with proper conduct. -[3937.00 --> 3939.88] They make sure that everybody's doing the things that they should be doing. -[3939.94 --> 3940.66] They call penalties. -[3940.86 --> 3943.54] They call icings and offsides and high sticks. -[3943.68 --> 3946.68] They drop the pucks for face-offs and make sure the nets are secure. -[3947.08 --> 3952.54] They ensure that proper hockey conduct is followed so that all of us can enjoy a game, right? -[3953.26 --> 3957.32] For example, do you remember what happened right before Canada scored the overtime winner? -[3958.64 --> 3959.02] Yeah. -[3959.44 --> 3959.78] You remember? -[3959.94 --> 3960.12] What? -[3961.12 --> 3961.70] There was an icing. -[3961.70 --> 3961.82] Nothing. -[3963.16 --> 3964.18] America made a pass. -[3964.26 --> 3964.68] It was missed. -[3964.74 --> 3965.66] It went all the way down the ice. -[3965.74 --> 3971.06] And Braden Point just beat out the American player to the red line to call an icing call. -[3971.16 --> 3972.26] And the linesmen blew the whistle. -[3972.34 --> 3975.64] If we didn't have a linesman, that whistle never happens. -[3975.78 --> 3977.44] There's never a face-off in America's end. -[3977.54 --> 3978.88] McDavid doesn't win that face-off. -[3978.98 --> 3980.72] McCarr doesn't wrap it around the boards. -[3980.82 --> 3981.98] Marner doesn't pass it to the slot. -[3982.24 --> 3983.26] And McDavid doesn't bury it. -[3983.76 --> 3985.20] Thank you, linesmen. -[3986.30 --> 3986.70] Right? -[3987.14 --> 3988.84] Right conduct matters. -[3988.84 --> 3991.88] Right conduct helps us in life, too. -[3991.94 --> 3994.62] It helps us live as God intends us to. -[3994.78 --> 3999.34] Some people in this world, they like to kind of bend the rules a little bit or try to get -[3999.34 --> 4001.04] away with as much as they can. -[4001.42 --> 4005.24] But we're taught in God's Word to be an example of right conduct. -[4005.84 --> 4010.20] We're called to live in a way that honors God, doing what's right even when no one is -[4010.20 --> 4010.52] watching. -[4011.16 --> 4012.30] That means being honest. -[4012.66 --> 4013.44] It means not cheating. -[4013.66 --> 4016.04] It means not seeing how much we can get away with. -[4016.04 --> 4020.96] It means we should be working hard and treating people with respect and making a positive -[4020.96 --> 4022.16] difference in our communities. -[4022.32 --> 4022.44] Right? -[4022.84 --> 4025.84] Our lives shouldn't be filled with chaos and selfishness. -[4026.24 --> 4029.54] But we should show good character and integrity every day. -[4029.90 --> 4032.34] That's what being an example of conduct means. -[4032.46 --> 4032.94] That's speech. -[4033.14 --> 4033.92] That's conduct. -[4034.98 --> 4037.98] Now we're called to be examples of love. -[4038.26 --> 4039.00] So what does that mean? -[4039.00 --> 4045.32] Well, I have a story about a guy named Desmond Doss, and it's a true story. -[4045.40 --> 4048.66] And so it's time for another segment of true stories with Pastor Kevin. -[4049.66 --> 4050.02] All right. -[4050.26 --> 4051.10] Desmond Doss. -[4051.16 --> 4051.62] Are we ready? -[4052.54 --> 4053.28] Here we go. -[4054.14 --> 4060.88] Desmond Doss was a soldier who believed in fighting for his country, but he also believed -[4060.88 --> 4063.68] that God called him to never harm another person. -[4064.46 --> 4065.74] So how would he do that? -[4065.74 --> 4069.70] Well, while other soldiers carried rifles, do you know what Doss carried? -[4070.46 --> 4071.68] A medical kit. -[4072.82 --> 4079.68] In World War II, during the Battle of Hacksaw Ridge in Okinawa, Japan, Desmond Doss's unit -[4079.68 --> 4081.48] came under intense fire. -[4082.46 --> 4085.14] Many soldiers were wounded and left on the battlefield. -[4086.00 --> 4088.76] But instead of running away to safety, do you know what Desmond did? -[4089.16 --> 4090.38] He stayed behind. -[4090.60 --> 4092.34] And he stayed behind all alone. -[4092.34 --> 4097.36] And he dragged and carried one wounded soldier after another to safety. -[4098.06 --> 4100.48] And after each soldier, he prayed to God. -[4100.58 --> 4103.16] He said, Lord, help me get one more. -[4104.30 --> 4106.54] By the end of that battle, do you know how many soldiers he saved? -[4107.74 --> 4108.62] Seventy-five. -[4109.84 --> 4115.46] Seventy-five soldiers, including many who mocked him at the beginning because he didn't go to -[4115.46 --> 4116.76] war with a gun in his hands. -[4117.40 --> 4118.20] Isn't that something? -[4118.20 --> 4120.68] And his favorite animal was flamingos. -[4122.40 --> 4124.26] All right, the flamingos was a lie again. -[4124.34 --> 4125.94] But the rest of that story is true. -[4126.60 --> 4128.12] The rest of that story is true. -[4129.00 --> 4133.20] That, boys, that is such a tremendous example of what love is. -[4133.54 --> 4135.78] See, Doss is an example for love. -[4135.88 --> 4139.60] And even though people mocked him for it, he went out and saved them. -[4140.16 --> 4142.52] True love isn't just about saying you care. -[4142.60 --> 4144.84] It's about putting others ahead of yourself, right? -[4144.84 --> 4145.78] Even when it's hard. -[4146.42 --> 4147.84] See, Doss didn't fight with weapons. -[4147.96 --> 4154.68] He fought with love by risking his life 75 times to save as many people as he could. -[4156.38 --> 4156.72] All right? -[4157.04 --> 4159.18] By the end of the battle, he saved so many people. -[4159.42 --> 4161.14] Again, even people who mocked him. -[4162.20 --> 4162.74] It's amazing. -[4163.40 --> 4164.52] So that's what love is. -[4164.66 --> 4168.36] He was a really good example of what Jesus says in John 15, 13. -[4168.46 --> 4169.08] Jesus says this. -[4169.18 --> 4172.60] He says, greater love has no one than this. -[4172.60 --> 4175.26] That someone lay down his life for his friends. -[4175.96 --> 4178.62] See, that's the kind of love that we're supposed to be an example of. -[4178.66 --> 4181.94] The kind of love that puts others ahead of ourselves, right? -[4182.00 --> 4187.46] Because no matter what you hear out in the world, in your schools, in the sports pitches, -[4187.82 --> 4195.20] in any jobs you end up getting, no matter what you hear, you are not the main character of the story. -[4196.36 --> 4198.68] You are not the main character in this world. -[4198.94 --> 4200.94] And we're going to get to who is in just a minute, okay? -[4200.94 --> 4200.98] Okay? -[4201.60 --> 4204.20] So, we've looked at speech. -[4204.32 --> 4204.94] We've looked at conduct. -[4205.06 --> 4205.78] We've looked at love. -[4206.12 --> 4208.18] Now we need to be examples of faith. -[4208.56 --> 4209.38] What does this mean? -[4210.40 --> 4210.70] All right? -[4210.74 --> 4212.96] Well, it means putting our faith in the right place. -[4213.38 --> 4216.40] I need a couple of cadet leaders first to help out. -[4216.48 --> 4217.66] So we're going to get Alvin and Dave. -[4217.74 --> 4218.44] You're going to come help me. -[4219.14 --> 4219.36] All right? -[4219.42 --> 4220.30] Alvin and Dave, come here. -[4220.34 --> 4221.72] You're going to stand off to the side here. -[4222.10 --> 4224.34] And then I need two cadets, actually, this time. -[4224.60 --> 4225.32] Two that haven't done it. -[4225.34 --> 4227.26] If you were up here, okay, I'll do these two here. -[4227.56 --> 4228.34] Sorry, boys in the back. -[4228.34 --> 4229.02] You come see me later. -[4229.84 --> 4231.20] These two right here are going to come. -[4231.42 --> 4232.12] Unless you want to come. -[4232.18 --> 4233.28] Yeah, Ty, I'll get you later. -[4233.90 --> 4237.38] If you've all volunteered but didn't get picked, come see me afterwards too, okay? -[4237.68 --> 4238.00] All right. -[4238.48 --> 4240.30] We're going to talk about faith right now. -[4241.30 --> 4243.18] Do you two trust these two guys? -[4244.60 --> 4244.88] Mostly? -[4245.04 --> 4245.16] Okay. -[4245.18 --> 4245.82] Here's what I'm going to do. -[4245.98 --> 4248.02] Can you two boys stand up on this chair right here? -[4248.06 --> 4248.98] You can stand on this one. -[4249.18 --> 4250.18] You can stand on this one. -[4250.48 --> 4250.90] All right? -[4251.14 --> 4252.58] You're going to face the crowd. -[4253.46 --> 4255.32] And you're going to cross your arms like this. -[4256.26 --> 4258.80] And these guys behind you are going to be right here. -[4258.98 --> 4262.04] And all you're going to do is lean back and they're going to catch you. -[4262.12 --> 4263.50] So, Alvin, you guys can get nice and close. -[4263.68 --> 4264.76] They don't need to lean too far. -[4265.14 --> 4265.44] All right? -[4265.48 --> 4266.64] Do you trust them to catch you? -[4266.74 --> 4267.92] You can take a quick shoulder check. -[4268.30 --> 4269.04] Do you see that they're there? -[4269.56 --> 4272.32] When I say three, can we trust that they'll catch you? -[4272.94 --> 4273.30] All right? -[4273.46 --> 4275.12] One, two, three. -[4275.12 --> 4275.52] Hey. -[4278.56 --> 4279.14] Pretty good. -[4279.22 --> 4279.80] They went for it. -[4279.84 --> 4280.00] All right. -[4280.04 --> 4280.50] That was good. -[4280.78 --> 4281.68] That shows faith. -[4281.92 --> 4282.76] Faith that they would be there. -[4283.02 --> 4283.28] All right. -[4283.60 --> 4285.56] Dave and Alvin, can you guys stand on the chairs? -[4285.90 --> 4287.50] You guys are going to stand here now. -[4287.92 --> 4288.26] Okay? -[4288.38 --> 4291.62] So, you're going to catch Dave and you're going to catch Alvin. -[4291.78 --> 4292.02] All right? -[4292.10 --> 4292.66] Hands up. -[4293.50 --> 4294.06] Hands up. -[4294.64 --> 4294.90] All right. -[4294.92 --> 4295.88] I'm going to count to three. -[4295.98 --> 4296.44] Are you ready? -[4297.36 --> 4298.52] One, two. -[4298.56 --> 4299.28] No, don't do it. -[4300.40 --> 4301.66] That's terrifying, right? -[4302.58 --> 4303.42] That's terrifying. -[4303.66 --> 4303.78] Okay. -[4303.80 --> 4304.50] You guys can all sit down. -[4304.50 --> 4304.96] Round of applause. -[4304.96 --> 4305.56] Round of applause. -[4310.72 --> 4311.26] All right. -[4312.24 --> 4313.58] This is why that matters. -[4314.52 --> 4318.60] You cadets had faith that Dave and Alvin were going to catch you. -[4318.82 --> 4319.80] And that was fair faith. -[4319.86 --> 4320.56] That was good faith. -[4320.62 --> 4322.62] You put faith that they would do it because you knew that they could. -[4323.52 --> 4328.30] But what if, is it cadet leader, counselor, Dave? -[4328.68 --> 4330.86] Just Dave and just Alvin. -[4330.96 --> 4332.64] Cadet leader, counselor, Alvin, doesn't matter. -[4332.64 --> 4335.86] What if Dave and Alvin trusted that you guys would catch them? -[4336.06 --> 4336.76] What would have happened? -[4338.76 --> 4340.60] They would squish you hard. -[4340.60 --> 4342.96] You would have been just part of the carpet. -[4342.96 --> 4343.08] Right? -[4343.08 --> 4344.16] Right? -[4344.16 --> 4349.38] Because sometimes, even if we have a lot of faith, if we put it in the wrong things, it -[4349.38 --> 4350.36] doesn't do us any good. -[4350.36 --> 4351.86] But in fact, it can do a lot of harm. -[4351.86 --> 4355.34] So it's not actually the amount of faith that we have. -[4355.84 --> 4357.84] It's what are we putting our faith in. -[4358.70 --> 4363.84] See, sometimes in life, we're not as smart as you cadets were in not letting those leaders -[4363.84 --> 4364.40] fall on you. -[4364.44 --> 4366.40] We put our faith in the wrong things. -[4366.50 --> 4367.68] Adults, we do this all the time. -[4368.24 --> 4372.40] Adults, we put our trust in our savings accounts, our workplaces, our political platforms. -[4372.70 --> 4374.10] I could list a hundred things. -[4375.12 --> 4380.52] And we claim, either explicitly or implicitly, that those things will save us, that they will -[4380.52 --> 4382.00] give us hope, that they will bring us peace. -[4382.72 --> 4384.26] We put our faith in the wrong thing. -[4384.26 --> 4388.00] And cadets, maybe you're trying to put your hope or your peace, if you're finding hope -[4388.00 --> 4393.16] or peace in sports or in friends, or we think if we just try a little harder, we can save -[4393.16 --> 4393.58] ourselves. -[4393.68 --> 4396.66] But when we do that, we're putting our faith in the wrong thing. -[4397.92 --> 4400.00] See, the object of the faith matters. -[4400.24 --> 4404.60] Jesus is the only one that offers us grace and peace and hope. -[4404.62 --> 4406.12] And we're going to talk about that in just a second. -[4406.18 --> 4408.94] But we need to remember to put our faith in Jesus, okay? -[4409.24 --> 4411.46] He is the true main character of this story. -[4412.00 --> 4413.32] So he's who we need to remember. -[4413.32 --> 4416.02] So we got speech, we got conduct, we got love, we got faith. -[4416.44 --> 4417.90] And finally, purity. -[4418.44 --> 4420.20] We need to be examples of purity. -[4420.38 --> 4424.96] Now, I was going to do a pretty disgusting example for this. -[4425.18 --> 4426.06] You know what I was thinking about doing? -[4426.14 --> 4427.66] I was thinking of bringing a bucket in. -[4428.10 --> 4431.68] And in the bucket was going to be a bunch of garbage and maybe a little bit of my dog's -[4431.68 --> 4431.88] poop. -[4432.16 --> 4433.46] And I was going to bring it in. -[4433.74 --> 4435.12] And then I was going to show you a candy. -[4435.30 --> 4437.04] And I was going to be like, who wants to eat this candy? -[4437.20 --> 4438.32] And you all would be like, yeah. -[4438.44 --> 4439.86] And I would be like, all right, plop. -[4440.16 --> 4441.66] Now who wants to eat the candy? -[4442.56 --> 4442.84] Right? -[4442.84 --> 4444.52] And that's what I was worried about. -[4444.92 --> 4446.02] I was worried. -[4446.86 --> 4448.76] So I didn't do it for a few reasons. -[4449.10 --> 4452.24] The first reason is I didn't really want to carry around a bunch of dog poop. -[4452.66 --> 4456.90] The second reason is I was certain a few of you were going to say yes and eat the candy. -[4457.02 --> 4459.60] And then we'd have a whole case of like septicemia on our hands. -[4459.60 --> 4468.78] But third, and most importantly, the example actually, that example is not the best way to explain what purity is about. -[4468.88 --> 4474.66] You see, purity, it isn't about us avoiding things that might make us dirty from the outside. -[4474.66 --> 4479.42] It's not just about us staying away from the bad things out there. -[4479.42 --> 4481.92] It's about what's inside of our hearts. -[4481.92 --> 4482.58] All right? -[4482.58 --> 4487.44] So in Matthew, in chapter 15, verse 19, Jesus talks about this. -[4487.50 --> 4487.98] And he says, -[4488.48 --> 4492.42] For out of the heart come evil thoughts like murder and theft and slander. -[4493.64 --> 4500.24] In other words, sin isn't just out there or outside of us that we have to avoid or run away from, -[4500.24 --> 4502.52] even though we do have to do that sometimes. -[4502.78 --> 4506.40] But it actually starts inside of us, in our thoughts and in our desires. -[4507.22 --> 4510.34] That means purity isn't just about staying away from bad influences. -[4510.98 --> 4516.50] It's about what we are or who we are and what we let control our hearts and minds. -[4517.20 --> 4518.24] So then how do we stay pure? -[4519.42 --> 4521.42] Well, it starts about what do we focus on. -[4521.68 --> 4523.94] In 2 Corinthians 10, Paul says, -[4524.40 --> 4527.10] Take every thought captive to obey Christ. -[4527.10 --> 4530.40] That means when a wrong or sinful thought pops into our heads, -[4530.44 --> 4532.94] whether it's jealousy or anger or pride or anything else, -[4533.76 --> 4535.18] we don't just let it stay there. -[4536.24 --> 4538.44] Instead, we bring it to God and we ask him for help. -[4538.60 --> 4541.52] And he helps shift our thoughts and shift our minds, -[4541.86 --> 4543.36] the things that are good and right. -[4543.76 --> 4546.94] So purity is more about filling our hearts and minds with good things. -[4547.04 --> 4550.46] It's about making sure our thoughts and words and our actions reflect Jesus. -[4551.08 --> 4551.20] Right? -[4551.52 --> 4552.58] So that's the five things. -[4552.66 --> 4554.12] Can you guys remember what were the five things? -[4554.20 --> 4555.20] Can you repeat them back to me? -[4555.20 --> 4558.24] Number one, you just shout them out. -[4558.30 --> 4558.68] Speech? -[4559.28 --> 4559.42] Yeah. -[4560.64 --> 4561.12] Conduct? -[4561.20 --> 4561.40] Good. -[4562.02 --> 4562.42] Love? -[4562.56 --> 4562.76] Yeah. -[4563.38 --> 4563.74] Faith? -[4563.86 --> 4564.08] Yeah. -[4564.72 --> 4565.12] Purity? -[4565.32 --> 4566.02] Pretty good. -[4566.62 --> 4567.56] Pretty good. -[4568.36 --> 4568.66] All right. -[4569.32 --> 4571.56] I have one last, well, kind of two last things. -[4572.04 --> 4572.82] Two last things. -[4572.90 --> 4573.98] My first question is this. -[4575.12 --> 4579.58] Where do we turn in order to understand what it means to be those examples? -[4579.72 --> 4581.54] Where do we turn to help us be those examples? -[4581.96 --> 4582.36] Any idea? -[4582.36 --> 4582.44] Yeah. -[4583.32 --> 4583.58] Yeah. -[4584.44 --> 4584.78] God. -[4584.86 --> 4585.54] That's a great answer. -[4585.58 --> 4586.90] And where do we hear God's voice? -[4587.52 --> 4588.06] The Bible. -[4588.56 --> 4588.94] That's right. -[4589.00 --> 4589.84] Remember our big idea? -[4590.16 --> 4594.54] You're never too young to read your Bibles and be a godly example in this world. -[4594.80 --> 4598.52] Have you guys ever thought about how amazing it is that we can read the Bible anytime we want? -[4599.22 --> 4600.76] We have Bibles all over the place. -[4600.82 --> 4601.78] We have Bibles in our homes. -[4601.96 --> 4603.32] We have Bibles on our phones. -[4603.54 --> 4604.68] We have Bibles at church. -[4604.78 --> 4606.00] They're hanging out in the back there. -[4606.24 --> 4607.64] We've got Bibles everywhere. -[4607.64 --> 4613.64] But did you know that when Timothy was leading this church in Ephesus, people couldn't just -[4613.64 --> 4614.92] read the Bible whenever they wanted? -[4615.56 --> 4619.18] Most people didn't own copies of the Bible, and it wasn't even fully put together yet. -[4619.36 --> 4620.50] Most people couldn't even read. -[4621.44 --> 4624.40] Instead, they had to listen to it being read out loud in church. -[4624.68 --> 4629.78] That's why the passage that Austin read talked about how Paul told Timothy to make sure that -[4629.78 --> 4631.30] Scripture was read publicly. -[4631.30 --> 4637.04] Timothy's job was to make sure God's Word was heard and preached and taught because it's powerful. -[4637.72 --> 4639.52] It's not just about reading words. -[4639.64 --> 4643.96] It's about letting God speak to His people because that's what the Bible is. -[4644.40 --> 4648.40] See, we can open up our Bibles and read God's Word whenever we want, and that's an incredible -[4648.40 --> 4648.70] gift. -[4648.80 --> 4652.46] But I do think, and again, adults, listen to this carefully. -[4653.28 --> 4658.92] Sometimes because we have such easy access to the Bible, we forget how amazing it truly is. -[4658.92 --> 4661.38] Think about it. -[4661.40 --> 4666.60] When we hear the Bible read, whether it's at church or at cadets or at home or by yourself, -[4667.24 --> 4669.30] those are God's words to you. -[4669.98 --> 4673.26] So when Austin read that passage, they weren't His words. -[4674.08 --> 4678.16] If I read it, they're not my words or Pastor Chris's words or your cadet leader's words or -[4678.16 --> 4679.32] your parents' words. -[4679.40 --> 4680.40] They're God's words. -[4681.46 --> 4683.34] That's why reading the Bible matters so much. -[4683.40 --> 4687.58] It teaches us how to live, how to love, how to follow Jesus and be an example in this world -[4687.58 --> 4689.48] because that's what God is telling us. -[4691.32 --> 4693.46] But sometimes when we live, we mess up, don't we? -[4693.48 --> 4693.88] We all do. -[4693.94 --> 4694.74] We all fall short. -[4694.82 --> 4695.96] We don't quite hit that bar. -[4696.46 --> 4698.00] Maybe we say things that are wrong. -[4698.06 --> 4699.12] Maybe we're not quite so loving. -[4699.22 --> 4700.46] Maybe we think some bad things. -[4702.28 --> 4705.54] And sometimes hearing what God wants from us can maybe feel a little bit overwhelming -[4705.54 --> 4708.34] because we don't always get it right. -[4709.10 --> 4710.36] But here's the best news. -[4710.68 --> 4711.38] Are you ready for this? -[4711.52 --> 4712.66] Here's the best news. -[4712.66 --> 4715.74] Jesus got it right for us. -[4716.84 --> 4720.16] See, Jesus doesn't just tell us how to live. -[4720.82 --> 4723.60] Jesus actually lived it, and He lived it perfectly. -[4724.28 --> 4726.92] When Jesus was tempted to sin, He didn't. -[4727.78 --> 4729.06] In fact, He used the Bible. -[4729.18 --> 4731.50] He used Scripture to help Him. -[4731.80 --> 4732.96] His speech was godly. -[4733.04 --> 4734.14] His conduct was perfect. -[4734.44 --> 4735.70] His love was sacrificial. -[4735.88 --> 4737.36] His faith never wavered. -[4737.60 --> 4738.46] He was pure. -[4739.36 --> 4741.90] And He was tempted just like us, but He never messed up. -[4742.90 --> 4746.94] And yet, even though Jesus was perfect, He took the punishment that we deserved. -[4747.40 --> 4751.78] He died on the cross for your sins and for my sins, but He didn't stay dead either. -[4752.56 --> 4754.26] He rose again, and now He lives in heaven. -[4754.36 --> 4758.52] Because of what Jesus did, we can be forgiven and saved. -[4758.90 --> 4760.42] That's what the Bible teaches us. -[4760.68 --> 4762.64] That's what we read about when we open Scripture. -[4764.10 --> 4765.42] So what does this mean for you? -[4765.92 --> 4768.74] And I'm ending here, so you can just stay with me for another minute or two, and then I'm done. -[4768.74 --> 4769.38] I promise. -[4769.94 --> 4770.20] All right? -[4770.20 --> 4777.36] It means that because Jesus already saved us, we don't have to be perfect to earn God's love. -[4778.06 --> 4783.56] Instead, we follow Jesus and try to be these examples because we love Him and because we -[4783.56 --> 4784.52] are already saved. -[4785.28 --> 4787.70] We are now Jesus' hands and feet in this world. -[4787.76 --> 4791.52] And when we read the Bible, we remember who Jesus is and what He did for us. -[4791.52 --> 4797.04] So as we grow in our faith and we start to become more and more like Him, we know that -[4797.04 --> 4800.96] it's not because we need to do that to be saved, because Jesus already saved us. -[4801.40 --> 4805.72] But we do that because we love Him and we want to live the way our Savior calls us to. -[4806.46 --> 4811.38] Now, you might think that maybe it's just this passage that talks about how we should speak -[4811.38 --> 4817.10] and act and love and, man, you remember them better than I did, and be pure and the faith -[4817.10 --> 4817.40] one. -[4817.68 --> 4819.10] You remember those five things. -[4819.44 --> 4821.52] And it's not just this passage that talks about this. -[4821.62 --> 4824.82] The Bible is full of passages that calls us to these. -[4824.96 --> 4825.70] Take a look at the screen. -[4826.00 --> 4826.52] There's going to be one. -[4826.52 --> 4831.54] Those are just some of the Bible passages I found in like two minutes, all about those -[4831.54 --> 4832.08] five things. -[4832.38 --> 4840.14] The Bible is full of verses teaching us how to speak, teaching us how to act, how to love, -[4840.34 --> 4843.02] how to have faith, how to live as examples of purity. -[4844.70 --> 4846.26] And again, we don't do that to be saved. -[4846.34 --> 4847.92] We do that because Jesus saves us. -[4848.00 --> 4850.88] If we want to grow in our faith, we need to read our Bibles. -[4851.42 --> 4856.40] And when we read about how Jesus speaks, how He lived, how He loved, how He trusted God, -[4856.52 --> 4858.32] it shapes us to live that way too. -[4858.86 --> 4861.18] The more we know Jesus, the more we'll want to follow Him. -[4861.24 --> 4863.52] So here's my final challenge for you boys. -[4863.60 --> 4863.98] Are you ready? -[4864.58 --> 4865.30] Adults, listen up. -[4866.68 --> 4871.38] My challenge to you that I actually want you to do is to read about Jesus. -[4872.20 --> 4877.88] So cadets, with maybe it's a parent or a grandparent or an uncle or an aunt or a mentor or a friend -[4877.88 --> 4882.26] or another adult in this world, read through the book of John. -[4883.16 --> 4884.14] All right, just that one book. -[4884.46 --> 4885.54] Read through the book of John. -[4885.54 --> 4886.92] Take as long as you want. -[4887.24 --> 4888.14] You can do it in a week. -[4888.20 --> 4888.82] You can do it a month. -[4888.90 --> 4889.68] You can do it after dinner. -[4889.76 --> 4890.52] You can do it before bed. -[4890.58 --> 4891.52] You can do it first thing in the morning. -[4891.58 --> 4892.02] Doesn't matter. -[4892.50 --> 4893.54] Take as long as you want. -[4894.08 --> 4897.00] Read it as short or as long as you need. -[4897.40 --> 4903.80] But read about how Jesus obeyed God, how He loved people like no one else, that no one -[4903.80 --> 4904.46] else cared about. -[4904.92 --> 4910.82] Pay attention to how He spoke, how He acted, how He loved, how He had faith, and how He lived. -[4910.82 --> 4914.70] And if you don't have a Bible that's easy to understand, just ask for one. -[4914.96 --> 4915.14] All right? -[4915.16 --> 4916.04] I've got some in my office. -[4916.14 --> 4917.96] If you want to come find me, I'll happily give one to you. -[4918.14 --> 4921.58] You can get an Action Bible or an NLT or a Youth Bible, but read it. -[4922.28 --> 4922.96] That's my challenge. -[4923.06 --> 4923.86] Read the book of John. -[4923.94 --> 4926.44] Take as long as you need, but read the book of John. -[4926.60 --> 4928.98] And if you'd rather read Matthew or Mark or Luke, that's fine. -[4928.98 --> 4931.34] But read one of the Gospels. -[4931.48 --> 4932.92] Read about Jesus this week, church. -[4934.44 --> 4935.16] Listening ears. -[4936.30 --> 4937.50] God's Word is powerful. -[4938.54 --> 4939.34] It teaches us. -[4939.42 --> 4940.14] It changes us. -[4940.20 --> 4941.54] It draws us closer to Jesus. -[4942.22 --> 4946.22] So don't take the Bible for granted, but read it and listen to it and learn from it. -[4946.24 --> 4950.06] And when you'll do, you'll see that God is speaking to you and He's shaping you and He's -[4950.06 --> 4954.08] helping you become more like Him so that we can positively affect the world around us. -[4954.08 --> 4959.92] Because, cadets, you are not too young to read your Bibles and be a godly example in this world. -[4960.32 --> 4963.04] And that is how you can lead the way. -[4963.70 --> 4963.94] Yeah? -[4964.38 --> 4964.62] Amen? -[4965.10 --> 4965.72] Can I pray? -[4966.02 --> 4967.20] And then we're going to sing some songs, okay? -[4967.96 --> 4968.52] Let's pray. -[4969.48 --> 4973.58] Father in heaven, we are so grateful that you sent your Son to come into this world, -[4974.24 --> 4977.92] come down from the throne of heaven, to be born here in this earth, -[4978.06 --> 4981.32] to live the life that He did, to die a death we all deserved, -[4981.58 --> 4983.78] and then rise again and that He has saved us. -[4983.78 --> 4987.00] And if we believe that to be true, that we are saved. -[4987.86 --> 4991.08] And so, God, because we know that, may we look to your Word -[4991.08 --> 4994.26] and learn and know what it means to live for Jesus. -[4994.74 --> 4998.24] May we learn how to speak well, to be examples in how we live, -[4998.84 --> 5004.32] how we love each other, Lord, in the way we act, in the faith that we have. -[5004.48 --> 5006.42] God, may we think pure thoughts as well. -[5006.54 --> 5011.88] And God, may you continue to shape us in this world so that we seek you first in all things. -[5011.88 --> 5013.30] I thank you for these boys. -[5013.30 --> 5017.92] May they really understand that they are not too young to be an example for you in this world, -[5018.22 --> 5023.90] whether that's in their schools, in their sports, God, in their extracurricular activities, -[5024.30 --> 5027.28] wherever they find themselves, God, that they can love you. -[5027.42 --> 5029.52] And may they learn to love you and follow you -[5029.52 --> 5032.12] and open up those Bibles to learn what it means to follow you. -[5032.62 --> 5034.84] God, we pray this in your Son's precious and holy name. -[5035.34 --> 5035.56] Amen. -[5035.56 --> 5035.68] Amen. -[5037.24 --> 5037.78] Thanks, boys. -[5037.82 --> 5038.54] We're going to sing now, okay? -[5039.90 --> 5044.04] So, cadets, it's really cool that you're using God's Word to guide you. -[5044.24 --> 5049.26] And this song is about that, about God's Word lighting our path. -[5049.46 --> 5051.60] So why don't we just stand and we'll sing these songs. -[5051.60 --> 5081.18] Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, -[5081.18 --> 5087.08] And a light unto my path. -[5087.08 --> 5093.28] My Word is a lamp unto my feet, -[5093.28 --> 5099.40] And a light unto my path. -[5099.40 --> 5102.82] When I feel afraid, -[5102.82 --> 5105.74] Think I've lost my way, -[5105.74 --> 5111.66] Still you're there right beside me. -[5112.00 --> 5114.56] Nothing will I fear, -[5114.74 --> 5117.62] As long as you are near, -[5118.30 --> 5124.30] Please be near me to the end. -[5124.30 --> 5132.20] Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, -[5132.20 --> 5138.28] And a light unto my path. -[5138.28 --> 5144.20] Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, -[5144.20 --> 5149.90] And a light unto my path. -[5149.90 --> 5155.22] I will not forget your love for me, -[5155.22 --> 5161.58] And yet my heart forever is wandering. -[5162.80 --> 5165.38] Jesus, be my God, -[5165.38 --> 5168.48] And hold me to your side, -[5168.48 --> 5174.72] And I will love you to the end. -[5174.72 --> 5182.62] Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, -[5182.62 --> 5188.62] And a light unto my path. -[5188.62 --> 5194.62] Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, -[5194.62 --> 5200.62] And a light unto my path. -[5200.62 --> 5206.52] O God, you are my God, -[5206.52 --> 5212.52] And I will ever praise you. -[5212.52 --> 5218.52] O God, you are my God, -[5218.52 --> 5224.52] And I will ever praise you. -[5224.52 --> 5230.42] I will sing you in the morning, -[5230.42 --> 5236.42] And I will learn to walk in your way, -[5236.42 --> 5242.00] And step by step you'll lead me, -[5242.00 --> 5248.12] And I will follow you all of my days. -[5248.12 --> 5254.02] O God, you are my God, -[5254.02 --> 5260.02] And I will ever praise you. -[5260.02 --> 5266.02] O God, you are my God, -[5266.02 --> 5272.02] And I will ever praise you. -[5272.02 --> 5285.92] O God, you are my God, -[5285.92 --> 5287.92] And I will ever praise you. -[5287.92 --> 5289.92] O God, you are my God, -[5289.92 --> 5294.92] And I will ever praise you all of my days. -[5294.92 --> 5298.82] O God, you are my God, -[5298.82 --> 5304.82] And I will praise you all of my days. -[5304.82 --> 5306.82] O God, you are my God, -[5306.82 --> 5308.82] You are my God, -[5308.82 --> 5310.82] And I will praise you all of my days. -[5310.82 --> 5312.72] You are a lamp unto my feet, -[5312.72 --> 5318.72] And I will lie unto my path. -[5318.72 --> 5326.72] You are the light unto my path. -[5326.72 --> 5328.72] O God, you are my God, -[5328.72 --> 5330.72] All right. -[5330.72 --> 5332.62] So cadets, know that you are not too young -[5332.62 --> 5335.02] To be that godly example in this world. -[5335.02 --> 5337.02] And church, know the same is for all of us. -[5337.02 --> 5340.52] That we are called to be a godly example in this world. -[5340.52 --> 5342.52] And so as we go from this place, -[5342.52 --> 5345.22] Know that you're not just being excused from this place. -[5345.22 --> 5348.32] You're being sent to this place to be those examples -[5348.32 --> 5349.82] As God has called us to live. -[5349.82 --> 5353.52] And as we go, please hear these words from number six, -[5353.52 --> 5355.02] The priestly blessing. -[5355.02 --> 5358.32] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[5358.32 --> 5362.42] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[5362.42 --> 5366.42] The Lord turn his face towards you and give you his peace. -[5366.42 --> 5369.42] And all of God's people said, Amen. -[5369.42 --> 5374.42] Now we're singing the song for the cadets. -[5374.42 --> 5377.42] And we just liked the very first verse in the chorus. -[5377.42 --> 5381.42] If all the guys can sing and the ladies can enjoy our voices. -[5381.42 --> 5384.42] And then we'll all join in after that. -[5384.42 --> 5388.82] Oh, yeah. -[5388.82 --> 5389.82] We were supposed to do that too. -[5389.82 --> 5394.82] Hey, cadets, why don't you come up and help the church sing the song? -[5394.82 --> 5395.82] So just come on up. -[5395.82 --> 5398.82] Find a spot either on the stage here or in front of the stage. -[5398.82 --> 5402.82] Be nice that everybody can see who you guys are. -[5402.82 --> 5407.22] You can come up, up, high up here too if you want. -[5407.22 --> 5412.22] So here's our cadet club. -[5412.22 --> 5416.80] Lovely -[5416.80 --> 5417.80] Amen. -[5446.80 --> 5447.80] Amen. -[5476.80 --> 5477.80] Amen. -[5506.80 --> 5507.80] Amen. -[5536.80 --> 5537.80] Amen. -[5566.80 --> 5577.08] My life I give henceforth to live, O Christ, for you alone. -[5579.20 --> 5595.80] Living for Jesus wherever I am, doing each duty in his holy name. -[5596.80 --> 5604.84] Seeking the lost ones, he died to redeem. -[5606.16 --> 5613.98] Bringing the weary to find rest in him. -[5614.64 --> 5623.00] O Jesus, Lord and Savior, I give myself to you. -[5623.00 --> 5631.00] For you in your atonement did give myself for me. -[5632.36 --> 5635.84] I owe no other master. -[5636.84 --> 5640.00] My heart shall be our throne. -[5640.00 --> 5652.00] My life I give henceforth to live, O Christ, for you alone. -[5652.00 --> 5655.42] Have a good week. -[5655.42 --> 5662.42] Thank you so much. -[5662.42 --> 5664.78] Thank you so much. -[5664.78 --> 5665.88] May body nice. -[5665.88 --> 5669.78] May body nice. -[5669.78 --> 5678.66] Hallelujah, to my Natomiast' future would be our family by calling myself mind maybe me or whether you're a father or the father or the father or father could not be trabalhar as a father. -[5678.66 --> 5683.78] Smart choices are not my and wish absolutely Rafi and others undestể'll alive. -[5684.04 --> 5685.80] It's horrifying. -[5685.80 --> 5686.28] Come on Darrion, get horny. -[5686.32 --> 5687.80] Several times a couple hundred but still have other talents come from pi. -[5687.80 --> 5717.78] Thank you. -[5717.80 --> 5747.78] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, February 9, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, February 9, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0573df9b4277a515672611e36ee6cd00a9c1383a..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, February 9, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,150 +0,0 @@ -• Music performance with song lyrics -• Chair blocking speaker Chris at front door -• Mexico dinner team thanks congregation for support -• Announcements: HCBC, Heidelberg Catechism Reading Group, lunch, foster family support evening, walk with Gateway of Hope -• Upcoming events and volunteer opportunities -• Introduction to a church service, addressing cough and cold season and suggesting alternative greetings -• Reading of Psalm 100, emphasizing worship and praise -• Singing and clapping, with Aaron leading the congregation -• Song "My Heart" by Hillsong United, focusing on praising God's name in various situations -• Repeating phrases from the song, emphasizing devotion to God's name -• The song "Blessed Be Your Name" is sung and reflected upon -• A prayer is offered asking God to open eyes to His presence and creation -• The congregation prays for forgiveness for their sins and empty prayers -• They confess hiding from God in secular living and forgetting Him -• The importance of surrendering to God and listening to the yearning in hearts is emphasized -• Prayers are offered to forgive forgetfulness of others and to see people around as community of faith -• Hearts are asked to be opened to pray for each other and for faith growth -• The congregation prays for unity with brothers and sisters across the globe in worshiping God -• Worship song with lyrics about heaven, pain, mercy, love, eternity, and resurrection -• Offerings for the church budget and Night Shift Ministries, a faith-based ministry serving street people -• Overview of Night Shift Ministries' locations, services, and volunteers from Langley Emanuel Church -• Report on recent service at Surrey location, including number of people served and types of donations received -• Night Shift Ministry's service times and rapid consumption of food -• Community and fellowship among those eating together on the streets -• The ministry's focus on providing for basic needs and community building -• Bible verse "I was hungry, you gave me food" as guiding principle -• Prayer requests for faith, passion, purity, and Christ's presence -• Discussion of birthdays and being born again in Christianity -• Children's worship theme: the Holy Spirit living in hearts -• Family prayer led by Clary Klosterhof with announcements. -• Gratitude for the church family's love and care for one another -• Thanking God for a new day and day of rest -• Celebrating the Feast of His Table -• Prayers for various individuals and groups, including: - + The Vanderweel family after Tony's passing - + Those struggling with addiction - + Those dealing with depression and anxiety - + Doug Hendon and Tanya, both battling stage 4 cancer - + Jared Jensen's daughter, Tessa, undergoing medical tests - + Shut-ins who are unable to physically attend services -• Encouragement to be God's hands and feet in the presence of Jesus Christ -• Reading from 1 Thessalonians chapter 3 -• The speaker reflects on how stories have shaped their own life and imagination -• The movies Iron Eagle and The Three Ninjas are used as examples of how stories can influence one's desires and actions -• Paul's use of stories in his letters is highlighted as a way to shape the Thessalonian church's understanding of reality and faith -• Stories of faith are seen as fueling and shaping prayers for the saints to stand firm -• The text from 1 Thessalonians 3 is discussed, with a focus on Paul's longing and writing -• Paul was preaching in Thessalonica with Silas and Timothy -• Some Jews became jealous and started a riot, blaming the early Christians for causing trouble -• Jason and other early Christians were fined and likely put under watch -• The believers sent Paul, Silas, and Timothy to Berea, where they also stirred up trouble -• The Christians in Berea sent Paul down the coast to Athens, while Silas and Timothy stayed back -• Silas and Timothy eventually joined Paul in Corinth, where he stayed for a year and a half -• Timothy returned to Thessalonica and brought news of the church's faithfulness to Paul -• Paul wrote a letter of thanksgiving and encouragement to the church in Thessalonica around A.D. 50-51 -• The Greek word "euangelizomai" is often translated as gospel or good news about Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. -• Paul treats perseverance in faith as a form of proclaiming the gospel. -• Perseverance in hard things of faith is a result of God's preservation by His grace. -• Standing firm to the end is part of proclaiming the gospel. -• The idea that perseverance is due to God's preservation by His grace has two key reasons why it matters for believers: - • It means that whatever trial or hardship they face, God is working to preserve them through it. - • This truth gives hope and encouragement in difficult times. -• The gospel can be proclaimed in and through life and story, even in times of overwhelming trial or death. -• Death and facing death is an opportunity to proclaim the truth of the gospel. -• A story from a person on their deathbed illustrates how dying can be a chance to declare one's faith. -• 1 Corinthians 15:54-57 teaches that death has been swallowed up in victory through Christ's resurrection, giving us victory over sin and death. -• Perseverance in faith and standing firm in the face of death -• The gospel as a source of victory over sin and death -• The preservation of believers through God's promise -• The implicit promise of God's love available to those who have accepted the truth of the gospel by faith -• The importance of doing God's will and trusting in His sovereignty -• The promise that none of those given to God will be lost, but raised up on the last day -• The truth that all things must work together for God's glory and good -• The foundation of confidence that comes from knowing God is preserving us through trials -• Persevering in trial and suffering as a lived message of God preserving us -• Despair and persecution are not inevitable outcomes of suffering -• Suffering can be a means of carrying the death of Jesus in one's body, allowing the life of Jesus to be manifested in others -• Being afflicted but not crushed is part of being a Christian -• Persecution and exclusion from certain groups or individuals may occur, but God will not forsake or forget those who suffer for their faith -• Suffering can tell the story of the gospel and proclaim Jesus Christ crucified -• Learning to suffer well as Christians is necessary -• The gospel is revealed through suffering and trials -• God's sovereignty is at work in our suffering, giving us confidence despite perplexing circumstances -• Gospel confidence shows up in humility, submission, service to others, and loving everyone around you -• True gospel confidence means trusting God's will and way, submitting to it, and acknowledging His right to decide what's best for us -• The importance of faithfulness in trials -• Stories about one's own and others' faith can fuel or strengthen their own faith -• Telling these stories is part of what God does to preserve us in our trials -• Sharing one's story can come back to help someone else when they need it, and hearing stories of God at work can encourage one's heart that God is working in their situation -• No matter how small or incomplete a person's story may seem, it can be used by God to change a life -• How you tell these stories matters, and telling them in a way that makes Jesus the hero is important -• Experiencing challenges and struggles -• Finding hope and faith in God's presence -• The importance of perseverance and trust in God's sovereignty -• Telling stories about God's involvement in life, using biblical support -• Integrating Scripture into personal narratives to reveal God's love and character. -• Testing one's understanding of God's work in the world through Scripture -• The importance of aligning personal stories with biblical truth and God's nature -• Not needing a "good" or "fixed" ending to share a story of God at work -• Embracing unresolved situations as opportunities for sharing God's story -• Recognizing that one's story can be used by God regardless of circumstances -• God's stories are meant to draw us towards the grand ending of His story, not a fake good ending -• The grand ending is the return of Jesus Christ and the consummation of all history -• Fixing our eyes on the great ending helps us tell our story in a way that proclaims the gospel -• By telling our story within the Bible's story, we can see God at work and how He will use it to preserve others -• The ultimate goal is to see God face-to-face again and have our love for Him increase. -• The Lord Jesus prays for the saints to endure suffering and be blameless and holy. -• He doesn't pray for an easy life, but for their love for each other to increase. -• Stories of faith fuel and shape our prayers for the saints. -• Faith in trials makes the gospel more real and tangible. -• The story of faith is made real at the table through communal sharing and testimony. -• The presence of Jesus is real -• Come hungry for Jesus and be shaped by God's plan -• Receive real grace and mercy from Jesus -• Persevere in trials through the power of Jesus' spirit -• God is faithful and will do it -• Pray for transformation of word to bread and juice -• Experience the real presence of Lord Jesus Christ -• Persevering to the end and looking forward to a heavenly banquet -• The importance of following Jesus' way and bearing his death and resurrection power in one's life -• Connecting with the institution of the Lord's Supper and its practice throughout Christian history -• Giving thanks to God for creation, covenant, and salvation through Jesus Christ -• The Lord's Supper and its significance in remembering Christ's sacrifice -• The new covenant established through the blood of Christ -• Proclaiming Christ's death and resurrection through participation in the Lord's Supper -• Invitation to come to the table regardless of faith or circumstances -• Instructions for serving and receiving communion at Emmanuel -• Invitation to worship team and serving elders to come up front -• Instructions for congregation to come forward -• References to Body of Christ and Blood of Christ, including a repetitive phrase "given for you" -• Encouragement to eat, drink, and remember Christ's sacrifice -• Repeated phrases of thanksgiving -• Worship songs with lyrics about restoration, feasting, and rejoicing in Zion -• Worship and prayer -• Faithfulness of God -• Grace and love of God -• Commissioning and empowerment by the Spirit -• Going forth as witnesses to the gospel -• Receive blessing and protection from God -• Revival and transformation of the church and earth -• Reaching the near and far with God's power -• No force can stop God's work or love -• The beauty of God changes hearts and brings strength -• Affluence is not the goal, but rather fulfilling one's purpose -• Awakening the kingdom within oneself and others -• Filling oneself with pride, strength, and love -• Recognizing the church as a community of believers -• Bringing hope to earth and building God's kingdom -• Confronting darkness with faith and God's power -• Seeking God's presence and guidance \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, February 9, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, February 9, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d62f520e1d4dbf6e11e84b9fed07e5170412a56e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, February 9, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2693 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 4.44] I don't need the money -[4.44 --> 8.64] I don't want the fame -[8.64 --> 13.76] I don't want what I can't save with me -[13.76 --> 15.92] In the rain -[15.92 --> 18.58] Oh and I don't want to lose my soul -[18.58 --> 21.88] Chasing out the things that don't leave me -[21.88 --> 24.08] The journey to you is -[24.08 --> 28.12] Oh I'm lost in a feeling -[28.12 --> 35.66] Oh I came from this world -[35.66 --> 39.16] I go back and eat it -[39.16 --> 41.08] Ain't gonna be easy -[41.08 --> 43.68] But at least be true -[43.68 --> 47.04] I don't want to lose my soul -[47.04 --> 54.92] I don't want to lose my soul -[54.92 --> 58.10] Chasing out the things that don't leave me -[58.10 --> 62.26] I don't want to lose my gaze -[62.26 --> 64.06] When I meet you face to face -[64.06 --> 65.02] Well done -[65.02 --> 68.64] Now I'm running over -[68.64 --> 71.56] Like the prodigal -[71.56 --> 76.44] Oh I'm lost in a feeling -[76.44 --> 86.98] Oh I'm lost in a feeling -[86.98 --> 90.52] Oh I'm lost in a feeling -[90.52 --> 92.48] I don't want to lose my soul -[92.48 --> 94.48] And I'm running over -[94.48 --> 98.64] Like the particle -[98.64 --> 100.10] Oh I'm lost in a feeling -[100.10 --> 102.02] I'm lost in a feeling -[102.02 --> 103.54] Oh I'm lost in a feeling -[103.54 --> 105.02] Oh I'm lost in a feel -[105.02 --> 109.34] Oh, oh, oh, oh, came from this world. -[110.68 --> 112.98] We're going back to eat it. -[113.20 --> 114.90] Ain't going to be easy. -[115.78 --> 118.26] No, please be straight to you. -[118.64 --> 119.92] I'm going to move. -[122.02 --> 123.18] Like the particle. -[126.98 --> 128.48] It is what it is. -[132.52 --> 133.66] Good morning. -[133.66 --> 135.72] Good morning, everyone. -[137.02 --> 139.82] Welcome to worship this morning. -[139.90 --> 142.74] A special welcome if you are a guest with us. -[142.90 --> 143.68] My name is Chris. -[144.22 --> 149.52] And I need to tell you that this morning I woke up and I went to go to my front door. -[149.52 --> 153.18] And there was this massive chair in front of my front door. -[153.34 --> 154.76] And I was blocked in. -[155.06 --> 156.60] And I didn't know what to do. -[159.12 --> 162.36] And so to explain what that's all about, I'm going to invite Josh to the front. -[162.36 --> 164.42] And he's going to give you a little thank you. -[164.42 --> 166.08] Yes. -[169.24 --> 173.68] So thank you all for supporting the Mexico team at the Mexico dinner. -[174.20 --> 178.98] We had record profit this year, which was awesome because the desserts were so well. -[179.02 --> 184.06] And you guys bought, pay way too much for those kind of things. -[184.06 --> 188.58] I would not buy $400 for a cake that I could just make for free. -[190.90 --> 194.08] But yes, thank you on behalf of the team for supporting us so well. -[194.60 --> 195.80] We thank you in our prayers. -[196.70 --> 199.50] And Chris, it's a really comfortable chair. -[199.50 --> 202.06] Still hideous though. -[202.34 --> 202.68] Yes. -[203.64 --> 204.82] Still hideous though. -[205.08 --> 205.68] I was, yeah. -[206.86 --> 210.32] Well, I'll enjoy it for a few days, but then someone's going to get it. -[211.32 --> 214.34] So if you need a chair, talk to me after service. -[216.10 --> 219.46] Just a couple more announcements before we get into our worship. -[219.46 --> 231.74] Following our service together this morning, we are going to, excuse me, we are going to have HCBC and the Heidelberg Catechism Reading Group. -[231.74 --> 236.94] And so we'll start that around noon-ish, although we'll see how it goes. -[237.28 --> 240.42] If you're sticking around for that, there is lunch this afternoon. -[240.58 --> 242.74] And so be mindful of that. -[242.82 --> 247.76] We'll have some soup and buns and then we'll get in our classes together to go through that. -[249.02 --> 261.02] On Tuesday night, so this coming Tuesday, February 11, we're hosting what we're calling it a foster family support information evening. -[261.02 --> 276.28] And so we've got a couple social workers from MCFD and some families who are currently fostering, who are going to share a little bit of stories and circumstances about how we as a community can support people who are doing that. -[276.64 --> 277.50] So I want to be really clear. -[277.60 --> 284.02] This isn't necessarily about asking you to become a foster parent, although if you have questions about that, please ask. -[284.34 --> 290.02] But it's really about how can we support those in our midst who are currently fostering. -[291.02 --> 299.54] And how can we surround them with community and provide the kinds of things that their families need to do that work well and to the glory of God. -[299.64 --> 304.28] And so that's on February 11, Tuesday night, here beginning at 730. -[304.28 --> 310.48] If you have any questions, you can talk to me about that after service or Brenda will also take your questions there. -[310.48 --> 335.50] And then lastly, just a quick note that on February 22, that's coldest night of the year where we're going to have a group of people get together and walk with Gateway of Hope in support of the homeless and addicted populations that need help and support, especially during these cold winter and wet seasons of life. -[335.50 --> 339.76] And so if you want to participate in that, you can sign up to join the team. -[340.04 --> 342.78] That information is available online and in the e-bulletins. -[344.46 --> 345.16] Excuse me. -[345.28 --> 352.84] And if you would like to support that work, you can also find a link in the e-bulletin there and you can make a donation in support of that work together. -[353.30 --> 357.10] If you have any questions about that, you can talk to myself or Nikki. -[357.24 --> 359.32] We'll gladly answer those questions for you too. -[359.32 --> 366.44] Let's stand together and we might be ushered into God's presence this morning for worship. -[370.78 --> 375.72] After the greeting of God, invite you to turn to those around you and to welcome them. -[376.18 --> 377.90] You can hear it in my voice. -[378.02 --> 381.04] It's cough and cold season and so maybe people don't want to shake hands. -[381.94 --> 385.00] Maybe they definitely don't want to hug or greet each other with a holy kiss. -[385.46 --> 386.44] And so a head nod is good. -[386.96 --> 387.60] Words are better. -[387.60 --> 392.46] But just welcome each other into the presence of God after we receive his greeting together. -[392.58 --> 394.18] Receive the greeting of our God. -[395.48 --> 399.90] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father. -[400.28 --> 402.74] From the Lord Jesus Christ, Son and our Savior. -[403.40 --> 405.86] Through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[406.74 --> 407.18] Amen. -[407.18 --> 407.26] Amen. -[417.60 --> 446.24] Our call to worship this morning is Psalm 100. -[446.24 --> 450.54] Shout with joy to the Lord, all the earth. -[451.22 --> 452.66] Worship the Lord with gladness. -[453.02 --> 454.82] Come before him singing with joy. -[455.82 --> 457.64] Acknowledge that the Lord is God. -[457.98 --> 459.70] He made us and we are his. -[460.26 --> 462.60] We are his people, the sheep of his pasture. -[463.34 --> 466.14] Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise. -[466.14 --> 469.02] Give thanks to him and praise his name. -[469.58 --> 470.44] For the Lord is good. -[470.94 --> 473.28] His unfailing love continues forever. -[473.70 --> 476.70] And his faithfulness continues to each generation. -[477.42 --> 481.34] And with this joy and in this next song, please get your clapping hands ready. -[482.12 --> 484.70] And if you don't know when to clap, Aaron will let you know. -[484.70 --> 506.88] We want to see Jesus lifted high. -[506.88 --> 510.60] A banner that flies across this land. -[510.60 --> 514.26] That all men might see the truth and know. -[514.88 --> 517.30] He is the way to heaven. -[517.30 --> 547.08] He is the way to heaven. -[547.30 --> 555.00] We want to see, we want to see, we want to see Jesus lifted high. -[555.18 --> 562.38] We want to see, we want to see, we want to see Jesus lifted high. -[562.82 --> 569.62] Step by step we're moving forward, little by little we're making ground. -[569.62 --> 579.90] Every prayer a powerful weapon, strongholds come, tumbling down and down and down and down. -[580.76 --> 587.72] We want to see, we want to see, we want to see Jesus lifted high. -[588.00 --> 595.06] We want to see, we want to see, we want to see Jesus lifted high. -[595.06 --> 602.24] We want to see, we want to see, we want to see Jesus lifted high. -[602.48 --> 608.86] We want to see, we want to see, we want to see Jesus lifted high. -[608.86 --> 610.08] My Heart -[638.86 --> 652.10] Blessed be your name in the land that is plentiful, where the streams of abundance flow. -[652.10 --> 654.64] Blessed be your name. -[657.08 --> 667.64] Blessed be your name when you're found in the desert place, when you walk through the wilderness. -[667.64 --> 670.34] Blessed be your name. -[672.52 --> 679.42] Every blessing you pour out, I'll turn back to praise. -[680.90 --> 687.02] When the darkness closes in, Lord, still I will say, -[687.02 --> 690.02] Blessed be the name of the Lord. -[690.94 --> 693.58] Blessed be your name. -[693.58 --> 695.58] Blessed be your name. -[695.58 --> 697.58] Blessed be the name of the Lord. -[697.58 --> 701.58] Blessed be your glorious name. -[701.58 --> 703.58] Blessed be your name. -[703.58 --> 704.58] Blessed be your name. -[704.58 --> 707.58] When the sun's shining down on me. -[707.58 --> 709.58] For the world's all that it should be. -[709.58 --> 710.58] Blessed be your name. -[710.58 --> 711.58] Blessed be your name. -[711.58 --> 712.58] Blessed be your name. -[712.58 --> 715.58] For the world's all that it should be. -[715.58 --> 717.58] Blessed be your name. -[717.58 --> 719.58] Blessed be your name. -[719.58 --> 720.58] Blessed be your name. -[720.58 --> 722.58] On the road mark, blessed I'll bring. -[722.58 --> 724.58] Blessed be your name. -[724.58 --> 726.58] On the road mark, blessed I'll bring. -[726.58 --> 728.58] So there's a name in the offering. -[728.58 --> 729.58] Blessed be your name. -[729.58 --> 731.58] the offering -[731.58 --> 733.58] blessed be your name -[734.14 --> 737.80] every blessing -[737.80 --> 739.66] you pour out -[739.66 --> 741.88] I'll turn back to -[741.88 --> 743.66] praise -[743.66 --> 745.68] when the darkness -[745.68 --> 747.72] closes in the Lord -[747.72 --> 749.58] still I will say -[750.34 --> 751.58] blessed be the name -[752.22 --> 753.82] of the Lord -[753.82 --> 755.58] blessed be your name -[757.18 --> 759.56] blessed be the name -[759.56 --> 761.42] of the Lord -[761.42 --> 763.78] blessed be your glory -[763.78 --> 765.56] our name -[766.20 --> 769.46] forgive and -[769.46 --> 771.14] take away -[771.14 --> 774.02] forgive and take -[774.02 --> 774.56] away -[774.56 --> 777.72] my heart will choose -[777.72 --> 778.76] to stay -[778.76 --> 781.76] blessed be your -[781.76 --> 782.88] reign -[782.88 --> 785.98] forgive and take away -[785.98 --> 789.54] forgive and take away -[789.54 --> 792.60] my heart will choose -[792.60 --> 793.70] to stay -[793.70 --> 797.54] blessed be your name -[797.54 --> 802.66] blessed be the name of the Lord -[802.66 --> 805.54] blessed be your name -[805.54 --> 810.02] blessed be the name of the Lord -[810.02 --> 813.44] blessed be your glorious name -[813.44 --> 817.50] blessed be your name -[817.50 --> 819.44] blessed be your name -[819.44 --> 820.44] blessed be your name -[820.44 --> 825.24] blessed be the name of the Lord -[825.24 --> 829.44] blessed be your glorious name -[829.44 --> 844.52] free and autour of the Lord -[844.52 --> 846.90] and the Lord -[846.90 --> 847.78] which you can sit -[847.78 --> 848.88] if you would like -[848.88 --> 850.84] it's gonna be a little bit of time -[850.84 --> 861.58] I had the privilege of going to the Calvin worship symposium at Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Michigan this week. -[862.32 --> 867.86] And it was beautiful and wonderful to sing with so many incredible people. -[869.68 --> 877.68] And something that was really beautiful was this song that we were going to sing through our Confession Assurance was sung. -[877.68 --> 882.52] And I'd already put it in our service and I thought, oh, that's so cool. -[882.62 --> 883.18] I love that. -[883.54 --> 891.84] And the way that they did it is we're going to reflect that a little bit in how we engage in this song. -[892.02 --> 901.24] And so I'm going to do some prayer and then we're going to respond with the song, Lord, listen to your children praying. -[902.16 --> 905.80] So you can stay with your eyes closed and listen along. -[905.80 --> 907.98] It's familiar for a lot of us. -[908.40 --> 915.52] You can open your eyes or just keep along and follow along with us and let us lead. -[916.70 --> 917.56] Pray with me. -[922.54 --> 923.14] Lord. -[927.52 --> 930.52] Gracious God, thank you for who you are. -[931.44 --> 932.92] We want to see you. -[932.92 --> 938.62] We want to see your gifts of grace in plenty. -[939.88 --> 948.32] We want to see and recognize how you have blessed us and look around and see your beautiful creation. -[948.52 --> 951.78] Open our eyes to your wonder. -[953.78 --> 960.16] We want to feel you when we walk in the desert place, knowing that you are with us. -[960.16 --> 966.84] We sing your praises and assure our souls with who you are. -[967.78 --> 969.46] Open our eyes to your word. -[970.00 --> 971.62] Open our hearts to your love. -[974.76 --> 975.76] Lord, listen. -[977.26 --> 979.00] Listen to us as we pray. -[979.00 --> 990.06] Lord, listen to your children praying. -[992.74 --> 999.24] Lord, send your spirit in this place. -[999.24 --> 1005.94] Lord, listen to your children praying. -[1007.94 --> 1009.84] Send us love. -[1010.02 --> 1011.74] Send us power. -[1012.02 --> 1013.94] Send us grace. -[1013.94 --> 1021.56] Lord, forgive us. -[1022.56 --> 1024.46] Forgive us for our sins. -[1027.76 --> 1031.26] Forgive us for our empty prayers. -[1032.26 --> 1037.26] When we pray for you to take our sins away, but we don't really mean it. -[1037.26 --> 1038.80] Forgive us for our sins away. -[1038.80 --> 1039.24] Forgive us for our sins away. -[1039.24 --> 1039.34] Forgive us for our sins away. -[1039.34 --> 1041.64] Forgive us when we lean deeper into the darkness. -[1044.52 --> 1047.02] It's familiar and easy to hide from you. -[1048.44 --> 1051.08] We come to church and we praise you. -[1051.86 --> 1054.82] And we confess our sins communally. -[1055.28 --> 1057.70] And then we're assured by your presence, Lord. -[1057.70 --> 1061.58] And then we walk out the doors and go back. -[1062.44 --> 1063.60] Back into life. -[1064.06 --> 1065.58] Into our secular living, God. -[1066.94 --> 1068.22] Forgive us for that. -[1069.12 --> 1070.46] Forgive us for forgetting you. -[1072.90 --> 1078.68] We fool ourselves so often that we've got it under control. -[1081.04 --> 1082.34] But you see us. -[1083.06 --> 1085.80] You see us in those vulnerable moments, Lord. -[1087.70 --> 1090.48] And you're calling us back to you. -[1092.40 --> 1094.50] Lord, listen to us as we pray. -[1094.90 --> 1098.40] Listen to the yearning in our hearts to surrender to you, Lord. -[1109.40 --> 1113.86] Lord, listen to your children praying. -[1113.86 --> 1129.56] Lord, listen to your children praying. -[1129.56 --> 1137.56] Send us love, send us power, send us grace. -[1137.56 --> 1139.56] Lord, listen to your children praying. -[1143.56 --> 1147.12] Lord, forgive us when we forget each other. -[1148.50 --> 1154.40] Forgive us for being self-centered and only seeing what's right in front of us. -[1157.06 --> 1160.28] Lord, open our eyes to the people around us. -[1160.66 --> 1163.38] This community of faith that you have put us in. -[1163.38 --> 1165.38] Lord, open our hearts. -[1165.38 --> 1166.38] Lord, open our hearts. -[1166.38 --> 1167.38] Lord, open our hearts. -[1167.38 --> 1169.68] Put on our hearts the needs. -[1170.38 --> 1177.48] Put on our hearts to pray for each other, for our faith, that we may grow and that we may flourish. -[1178.54 --> 1183.60] Pray that we may see that in each other and encourage and grow each other. -[1183.60 --> 1185.60] Lord, help us to pray for each other. -[1185.60 --> 1190.40] Lord, help us look to the world. -[1192.04 --> 1196.50] Help us see our brothers and sisters in Christ across the globe. -[1198.10 --> 1204.38] And remind us to pray that we join in unity in worshiping you, Lord. -[1207.46 --> 1209.22] Hear us as we pray, Lord. -[1209.22 --> 1211.22] Lord, listen to your children praying. -[1211.22 --> 1228.22] Lord, send your spirit in this place. -[1228.22 --> 1235.22] Lord, listen to your children praying. -[1235.22 --> 1265.20] Lord, listen to your children praying. -[1265.20 --> 1275.20] Send us love, send us power, send us grace. -[1281.20 --> 1283.96] Please rise if you are able and sing our assurance. -[1283.96 --> 1284.96] Amen. -[1286.96 --> 1287.10] Amen. -[1287.10 --> 1306.80] I long to breathe the air of heaven -[1306.80 --> 1313.96] Where pain is gone and mercy kills the streets -[1313.96 --> 1321.46] To love the God, the one who pled to save me -[1321.46 --> 1326.98] And walk with him for all eternity -[1326.98 --> 1337.96] There will be a day when all the love accorded -[1337.96 --> 1345.46] There will be a day when death will be no more -[1345.46 --> 1353.96] Standing face to face with he who died and rose again -[1353.96 --> 1359.96] Holy, holy is our Lord -[1359.96 --> 1369.46] Every prayer we pray in desperation -[1369.46 --> 1376.96] A song of faith we sang through doubt and fear -[1376.96 --> 1384.46] And in the end we'll see that it was worth it -[1384.46 --> 1391.96] When he returns to wipe away our tears -[1391.96 --> 1400.46] There will be a day when all will bow before him -[1400.46 --> 1406.96] There will be a day when death will be no more -[1406.96 --> 1415.46] Standing face to face with he who died and rose again -[1415.46 --> 1421.46] Holy, holy is our Lord -[1421.46 --> 1430.46] And on that day we join the resurrection -[1430.46 --> 1438.46] And stand beside the heroes of the faith -[1438.46 --> 1444.46] With one voice a thousand generations -[1444.46 --> 1451.46] Sing worthy is the Lamb who was played -[1451.46 --> 1458.46] And on that day we join the resurrection -[1458.46 --> 1465.46] And stand beside the heroes of the faith -[1465.46 --> 1466.46] And stand beside the heroes of the faith -[1466.46 --> 1467.46] And stand beside the heroes of the faith -[1467.46 --> 1469.46] And stand beside the heroes of the faith -[1469.46 --> 1474.46] And stand beside the heroes of the命令 -[1474.46 --> 1477.46] Children of the faith -[1477.46 --> 1478.06] And stand beside the heroes of the faith -[1479.46 --> 1481.46] And all пап Af'n源 -[1486.46 --> 1487.46] The was you everywhere -[1487.46 --> 1490.46] That Christ is the earth -[1490.46 --> 1491.46] And all biblical40ga -[1491.46 --> 1493.46] And all gods will be no more -[1493.46 --> 1495.32] For Him -[1495.32 --> 1498.32] There will be a day -[1498.32 --> 1501.06] When death will be gone -[1501.06 --> 1504.94] Standing face to face -[1504.94 --> 1509.84] With He who I am rose again -[1509.84 --> 1515.56] Holy, holy is the Lord -[1515.56 --> 1517.72] Let it be today -[1517.72 --> 1521.06] We shall live forever -[1521.06 --> 1524.54] With angels and her saints -[1524.54 --> 1528.20] Give grace and mighty glory -[1528.20 --> 1531.20] Glory to our God -[1531.20 --> 1536.18] Who gave us life beyond the grave -[1536.18 --> 1541.82] Holy, holy is the Lord -[1541.82 --> 1549.32] Holy, holy is the Lord -[1549.32 --> 1556.00] Holy, holy is the Lord -[1556.00 --> 1561.48] Holy, holy is the Lord -[1561.48 --> 1580.46] Good morning, my name is Pearl -[1580.46 --> 1582.60] I'm one of the deacons here at Langley Emanuel -[1582.60 --> 1586.00] And it's time to continue our worship with our offerings -[1586.00 --> 1588.44] Today's offering is first for the budget -[1588.44 --> 1590.46] Which is for the ministries of this church -[1590.46 --> 1591.94] And if you wish to give to that -[1591.94 --> 1594.70] Then do it in a marked envelope -[1594.70 --> 1596.74] Or use the envelopes that are in front of you -[1596.74 --> 1597.88] And the chairs in front of you -[1597.88 --> 1601.58] And our other offering for any money that's not designated -[1601.58 --> 1604.22] Will be for Night Shift Ministries -[1604.22 --> 1610.20] Night Shift Ministries is a ministry that serves primarily the street people -[1610.20 --> 1614.96] And they have location, one in the city of Langley -[1614.96 --> 1619.10] And then also one off of King George Boulevard in Surrey -[1619.10 --> 1623.74] And in both locations we have teams from this church here that go -[1623.74 --> 1629.98] The one in Langley, it's a couple of nights a week that there's food being served -[1629.98 --> 1632.42] And there's volunteers from this church that help serve that -[1632.42 --> 1637.52] And then the one in Surrey is 365 days of the year -[1637.52 --> 1643.12] And there not only is there food served on the street there in the parking lot -[1643.12 --> 1646.20] There's also counselling available there -[1646.20 --> 1649.00] There's also a clothing truck -[1649.00 --> 1653.00] There's also prayer that's being offered there -[1653.00 --> 1654.98] It's a faith-based ministry -[1654.98 --> 1657.74] It's 100% operated by donations -[1657.74 --> 1659.58] There's no government funding whatsoever -[1659.58 --> 1667.28] And as most of you know, I happen to be on the team that is a part of the Surrey group -[1667.28 --> 1670.12] And so just to give you a bit of a snapshot of what happens there -[1670.12 --> 1671.76] We were there this past Thursday -[1671.76 --> 1674.46] And we served, I think it was 89 people -[1674.46 --> 1676.80] There's always a report that we get through our emails -[1676.80 --> 1682.30] And I think I read this morning that there were 89 people that we served on the streets of Surrey -[1682.30 --> 1683.84] This past Thursday -[1683.84 --> 1686.68] And these people, some of them are homeless -[1686.68 --> 1688.30] Some of them live in shelters -[1688.30 --> 1689.84] Some of them have jobs -[1689.84 --> 1693.92] But just can't afford to both put a roof over their head and feed themselves -[1693.92 --> 1695.68] So everybody's welcome there -[1695.68 --> 1697.02] There's no questions asked -[1697.02 --> 1699.88] And then we made three pots of chili -[1699.88 --> 1701.88] We always make hot food -[1701.88 --> 1704.88] So we made three pots of chili and did nine loaves of bread -[1704.88 --> 1708.42] And all that food is donated by people from this congregation -[1708.42 --> 1712.12] And then, yeah, we start serving at 7 -[1712.12 --> 1713.10] We prepare it there -[1713.10 --> 1714.18] We start serving at 7 -[1714.18 --> 1715.80] And then by 8 o'clock it was all gone -[1715.80 --> 1718.54] And, but that one hour then -[1718.54 --> 1720.64] There's a lot of fellowship that happens on the streets -[1720.64 --> 1722.18] So there's a lot of community -[1722.18 --> 1726.28] A lot of networking amongst the people that are eating together -[1726.28 --> 1728.38] So it's a real community time -[1728.38 --> 1732.76] And it's a real ministry that Night Shift offers for all of these people -[1732.76 --> 1734.28] So do give generously -[1734.28 --> 1738.68] Even as we've been blessed with such warm homes this week -[1738.68 --> 1740.76] The people on the streets, of course, are cold -[1740.76 --> 1742.66] So do give generously this week -[1742.66 --> 1749.00] And remember their, the Bible verse that Night Shift Ministry operates under is -[1749.00 --> 1750.68] I was hungry, you gave me food -[1750.68 --> 1752.18] I was thirsty, you gave me drink -[1752.18 --> 1753.56] I was naked and you clothed me -[1753.56 --> 1754.30] Thank you -[1754.30 --> 1778.22] Holy Spirit, living breath of God -[1778.22 --> 1791.36] Let the presence of the risen Lord -[1791.36 --> 1797.06] Come renew my heart and make me old -[1797.06 --> 1804.90] Cause your word to call the life in me -[1804.90 --> 1811.28] Give me faith for what I cannot see -[1811.28 --> 1817.08] Give me passion for your purity -[1817.08 --> 1822.72] Holy Spirit, bring you my faith -[1822.72 --> 1830.48] Holy Spirit, come abide with me -[1830.48 --> 1836.48] May your joy be seen in all I do -[1836.48 --> 1843.40] Love enough to cover every sin -[1843.40 --> 1848.20] In each thought and deed and attitude -[1848.20 --> 1856.86] Kindness to the greatest and the least -[1856.86 --> 1863.20] Gentleness, bless those, the path of peace -[1863.20 --> 1869.10] Turn my strides into words of grace -[1869.10 --> 1874.86] Breath of God, show Christ in all I do -[1874.86 --> 1882.12] Holy Spirit, from creation's birth -[1882.12 --> 1888.12] Giving life to all that God has made -[1888.12 --> 1895.16] Show your power once again on earth -[1895.16 --> 1901.12] Ask your church to hunger for your grace -[1901.12 --> 1908.56] Let the great grace of our prayers arise -[1908.56 --> 1914.42] Lead us on the road of sacrifice -[1914.42 --> 1914.50] Lead us on the road of sacrifice -[1914.50 --> 1915.28] Lead us on the road of sacrifice -[1915.28 --> 1920.78] That in humanity the face of Christ -[1920.78 --> 1926.44] May be clear for all the world to see -[1926.44 --> 1933.28] Let the fragrance of our prayers arise -[1933.28 --> 1948.28] rise, lead us on the road of sacrifice, that in unity the place of Christ may be clear -[1948.28 --> 1953.28] for all the world to see. -[1963.28 --> 1970.54] Good morning everyone, I'd like to invite any kids up to the front, age three, up to grade -[1970.54 --> 1976.40] four, and have a little chat before we head off to our classes for children's worship -[1976.40 --> 1976.78] today. -[1984.28 --> 1989.46] I'm wondering if you guys know why you celebrate your birthday. -[1989.46 --> 1994.18] Why do we celebrate our birthday? -[1994.18 --> 1995.18] Where does that come from? -[1995.18 --> 2003.48] What do you think, Mateo? -[2003.48 --> 2007.58] You might have a cake at your birthday party, you might have like some fun games and some -[2007.58 --> 2011.82] friends over, but how do you know when to celebrate your birthday? -[2011.82 --> 2015.12] You just pick your favorite day of the year when it seems like it would be good? -[2015.12 --> 2016.12] How do you know? -[2016.12 --> 2017.12] What do you think, Hayley? -[2017.12 --> 2019.56] Yeah, it's about when you were born, the day you were born. -[2019.56 --> 2023.16] You probably don't remember the day you were born, but when you were born, you're a little -[2023.16 --> 2026.38] tiny baby, exactly. -[2026.38 --> 2028.38] And what do babies do? -[2028.38 --> 2029.38] Cry. -[2029.38 --> 2030.38] Cry. -[2030.38 --> 2031.38] Crawl. -[2031.38 --> 2032.38] Crawl. -[2032.38 --> 2033.38] Poop. -[2033.38 --> 2034.38] Yeah. -[2034.38 --> 2040.44] They make you go and laugh, but they can't do too much, right? -[2040.44 --> 2044.14] I'm sure there's things you can think of that you can do now that when you were a baby, you -[2044.14 --> 2051.12] just couldn't do that yet, like ride a bike or go for a run or play soccer or paint beautiful -[2051.12 --> 2051.52] pictures. -[2051.52 --> 2057.16] So today what we're going to talk about is in the Bible, Jesus talks about being born -[2057.16 --> 2057.76] again. -[2058.18 --> 2062.06] We were already born when we were a baby, but what does it mean to be born again? -[2062.32 --> 2065.76] And what does it mean to have the Holy Spirit living in our hearts? -[2065.76 --> 2067.90] So that's going to be our theme today. -[2068.90 --> 2072.16] And before we go though, I'd like to invite you to stand or everyone to stand and we'll -[2072.16 --> 2076.00] do our blessing and receive our blessing and then we'll head off. -[2076.00 --> 2082.14] The Lord be with you. -[2082.34 --> 2083.92] And also with you. -[2095.76 --> 2125.74] Good morning, my friends. -[2125.74 --> 2127.90] My name is Clary Klosterhof. -[2129.08 --> 2131.14] I don't know if I'm allowed to use last names. -[2132.14 --> 2133.22] That's my last name. -[2134.28 --> 2141.76] And I'm an elder here and I'm going to lead us in our family prayer this morning. -[2143.94 --> 2147.18] A couple announcements though that won't be in the prayer. -[2147.18 --> 2158.08] First of all, donation receipts are going to be in your church mailboxes EOD Tuesday, which -[2158.08 --> 2160.96] apparently is an acronym that stands for end of day. -[2161.52 --> 2166.00] So end of day Tuesday, your donation receipts are available. -[2166.00 --> 2172.98] Please contact the church office if you have any questions or need yours mailed out. -[2173.86 --> 2181.96] And then just as a council, as a congregation, we want to give thanks for the many ways in -[2181.96 --> 2185.90] which our church family is loving and taking care of each other. -[2185.90 --> 2196.36] Whether in meals, cards, rides, visits, and prayers, we see God at work among us in our love for each other. -[2196.98 --> 2198.80] And that's wonderful. -[2198.80 --> 2206.38] So please join me, join with me as we come to the Father in congregational prayer. -[2208.56 --> 2214.34] Gracious Father in heaven, again, we want to say thank you for a new day. -[2214.34 --> 2220.98] And we want to give you thanks that we can begin our work weeks with a day of rest. -[2221.62 --> 2237.86] And we can put away maybe the mundane details of making a living and being busy and begin the week with an act of faith -[2237.86 --> 2249.46] where we don't work and we can begin our day all together glorifying you, being blessed by your presence, -[2249.80 --> 2253.08] and this morning celebrating the feast of your table. -[2254.36 --> 2255.58] Thank you for this. -[2257.22 --> 2261.58] And thank you that it is so easy to talk to you. -[2262.38 --> 2266.74] We don't have to face a particular direction. -[2266.74 --> 2270.24] We don't have to assume a specific posture. -[2272.66 --> 2273.56] You are here. -[2274.16 --> 2276.78] And thank you for that. -[2277.58 --> 2288.72] So this morning, Lord, we want to raise up prayers, petitions, gratitude, and concerns to you. -[2289.74 --> 2291.20] And we ask that you hear our prayers. -[2291.20 --> 2297.88] Father, we want to ask that you will be with the family of Tony Vanderweel. -[2298.88 --> 2302.10] He died recently and his funeral is going to be this week. -[2302.10 --> 2307.66] Thank you for his life and the testimony of his life. -[2308.62 --> 2315.66] But please provide your peace and comfort to those who mourn his loss. -[2315.66 --> 2328.84] Father, we want to ask that you help those who struggle daily with addictions to alcohol, drugs, pornography. -[2328.84 --> 2337.44] We are so good at making idols out of basically anything that you have created. -[2337.44 --> 2343.24] And some of our brothers and sisters really, really struggle. -[2343.24 --> 2352.36] So, Father, in particular, we ask that you will grant those who struggle courage to reach out for help. -[2352.36 --> 2368.06] But also, will you, with all of us who may be available to help, make us or keep us humble -[2368.06 --> 2381.64] and make this a safe place so that people can be vulnerable and take the risk of asking for help. -[2383.30 --> 2389.30] Father, we want to lift up all of those who struggle with depression and with anxiety. -[2389.30 --> 2397.04] Sometimes these challenges are harder in the winter because it's darker. -[2397.36 --> 2398.80] We're inside a lot more. -[2400.40 --> 2409.66] Father, give peace to these people and give courage and encouragement. -[2409.66 --> 2419.20] And then for their friends, family, and loved ones, help them to be good listeners, encouragers. -[2419.30 --> 2426.88] And help all of us not to give advice unless it's asked. -[2427.98 --> 2434.66] We want to pray for Elise Wagoner's father, Doug Hendon. -[2435.00 --> 2438.46] He is struggling with stage 4 cancer. -[2439.00 --> 2443.40] We want to lift up to you Amanda Hogan-Wonings' sister, Tanya. -[2444.02 --> 2447.74] She's also struggling with stage 4 cancer. -[2447.74 --> 2454.70] In these two cases, Lord, please give courage, good cheer, strength, and healing. -[2455.80 --> 2464.44] We also want to lift up Jared Jensen's daughter, Tessa, who is going for tests just in a couple of days on Tuesday -[2464.44 --> 2468.28] to determine a course of action for a mass in her lungs. -[2469.10 --> 2474.64] Father, also give her courage, healing, and good news. -[2474.64 --> 2489.18] We also want to lift up all of those people in our congregation who are shut-ins because of a host of reasons -[2489.18 --> 2491.74] are not able to physically be here. -[2492.68 --> 2497.26] Give them a full measure of your presence and keep them encouraged. -[2497.26 --> 2502.76] Again, in these dark days of winter to be housebound. -[2503.72 --> 2504.40] It's hard. -[2505.92 --> 2512.08] So in all these things, Lord, we know that you can work miracles and you can do anything. -[2513.08 --> 2516.36] But you have called us to be your hands and feet. -[2516.36 --> 2521.22] So as we think about all the people we've just prayed for, -[2521.90 --> 2529.56] help us to remember and think of ways that we can be the hands and feet in the presence of Jesus Christ. -[2530.64 --> 2531.10] Amen. -[2546.36 --> 2559.58] We're going to continue in our close reading of the book of Thessalonians. -[2559.78 --> 2563.54] We're in 1 Thessalonians right now, chapter 3. -[2564.12 --> 2569.96] We're going to read together from verse 6 through to the end of the chapter, verse 6 through 13. -[2569.96 --> 2578.46] As always, I encourage you, if you have a Bible, open it up and keep it open or turn it on and find our text and leave that there. -[2578.50 --> 2582.54] If you're looking for some Bibles, there's a couple at the back that you're welcome to grab. -[2583.86 --> 2589.10] It will be on the screen the first time we go through, but it will be helpful for you as we refer back throughout. -[2590.74 --> 2593.68] Let's read together from 1 Thessalonians 3. -[2593.68 --> 2603.66] But Timothy has just now come to us from you and has brought good news about your faith and love. -[2604.50 --> 2613.32] He has told us that you have always have pleasant memories of us and that you long to see us just as we also long to see you. -[2614.38 --> 2622.38] Therefore, brothers and sisters, in all our distress and persecution, we were encouraged about you because of your faith. -[2622.38 --> 2628.22] For now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord. -[2629.10 --> 2636.10] How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy we have in the presence of our God because of you? -[2637.06 --> 2643.68] Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may seek you again and supply what is lacking in your faith. -[2645.20 --> 2651.12] Now may our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus clear the way for us to come to you. -[2651.12 --> 2660.34] And may the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. -[2661.24 --> 2667.24] May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father -[2667.24 --> 2671.74] when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones. -[2672.24 --> 2673.42] This is the word of the Lord. -[2673.42 --> 2684.14] If you have been following along the Narthex podcast for the last couple of weeks, -[2684.70 --> 2689.96] which is something that Kevin and Josh and myself do every week and we reflect on the sermon, -[2690.56 --> 2698.58] in that Josh has had the gall to call Kevin and I old by making particular cultural references -[2698.58 --> 2702.26] to certain movies of a particular age. -[2703.50 --> 2707.36] And so instead of fighting against Josh, I'm just going to embrace it. -[2707.96 --> 2712.50] And so this is going to mean absolutely nothing to probably 80% of you. -[2712.80 --> 2716.32] But if you were born in the six-year window that I was born in, -[2716.50 --> 2718.70] how many of you are familiar with the movie Iron Eagle? -[2720.16 --> 2720.52] Yeah! -[2721.46 --> 2722.28] We got one. -[2722.48 --> 2723.50] Oh, my dad at the back. -[2723.58 --> 2723.76] Yep. -[2723.86 --> 2724.12] Ken. -[2724.36 --> 2724.88] Very good. -[2724.96 --> 2726.66] Ken, you're almost outside that six-year window. -[2726.80 --> 2727.18] Good job. -[2727.18 --> 2732.34] So the movie Iron Eagle is about a young man, teenager, -[2732.88 --> 2737.92] who is in the Air Force cadet program in the United States. -[2738.02 --> 2741.48] His father is an Air Force captain and fighter pilot -[2741.48 --> 2746.28] who goes on a mission to some Middle Eastern country. -[2746.40 --> 2749.48] They're very careful to not actually tell you what country it is, -[2749.86 --> 2754.20] being politically correct at the time in the early to mid-80s. -[2754.20 --> 2757.48] And he is shot down and captured. -[2758.42 --> 2761.76] And so the plot of the movie is this young man and his friends -[2761.76 --> 2765.62] coming up with a plan for how they're going to steal some fighter jets -[2765.62 --> 2767.40] from the Air Force base that they live on, -[2767.70 --> 2769.34] fly halfway around the world, -[2769.74 --> 2771.68] somehow manage to land their planes, -[2771.88 --> 2773.06] rescue dad from prison, -[2773.16 --> 2774.60] get back in their fighter jets, -[2774.72 --> 2778.14] and fly all the way back to the United States Air Force base. -[2778.14 --> 2780.10] It's highly improbable, -[2780.60 --> 2783.98] but watching that movie changed about four years of my life. -[2784.80 --> 2786.42] Because after watching that movie, -[2786.80 --> 2788.08] after hearing that story, -[2788.20 --> 2791.30] after seeing that story like a thousand times when I was a kid, -[2791.48 --> 2794.06] all I wanted to do was be a fighter pilot. -[2795.34 --> 2797.74] Now, unfortunately, my father wasn't in the Air Force, -[2797.84 --> 2798.84] and so he didn't get kidnapped, -[2798.94 --> 2800.52] and I had no opportunity to do that. -[2800.52 --> 2803.26] It was clearly his fault that that never happened. -[2806.10 --> 2812.14] But that story changed the way I saw my own story in my own life. -[2813.16 --> 2816.54] Made me want to live a particular way and do a particular thing. -[2818.92 --> 2820.56] Maybe this one's a bit more accessible, -[2820.90 --> 2822.04] but still from my age. -[2822.18 --> 2823.72] How many of you know the movie The Three Ninjas? -[2825.16 --> 2826.06] My mom hated it. -[2826.08 --> 2827.00] Yeah, Daryl knows that one. -[2827.04 --> 2828.92] My mom hated that movie because we watched that, -[2828.92 --> 2830.50] and then we all decided we wanted to be ninjas, -[2830.58 --> 2831.64] and then me and my three brothers -[2831.64 --> 2834.20] just ended up beating each other up for the next four hours. -[2835.54 --> 2838.10] But that story shaped what we did -[2838.10 --> 2839.58] and how we wanted to live. -[2840.84 --> 2841.62] Here's my point. -[2842.40 --> 2844.48] Stories shape how you see the world. -[2845.56 --> 2848.58] Stories have an impact on your imagination -[2848.58 --> 2851.30] for how you want to be in the world. -[2852.50 --> 2854.80] What Paul is doing in Thessalonians -[2854.80 --> 2856.94] is highlighting stories -[2856.94 --> 2861.18] that shape our experience in the world -[2861.18 --> 2863.18] and our understanding of reality -[2863.18 --> 2867.28] and how we might see God at work in those stories -[2867.28 --> 2869.50] in order to spur us -[2869.50 --> 2871.98] in the midst of our particular stories -[2871.98 --> 2875.10] of trial and struggle and hardship. -[2875.94 --> 2878.80] Really, the big idea that I hope we can see together... -[2878.80 --> 2882.64] The big idea that I hope we can see together this morning -[2882.64 --> 2884.96] is that stories of faith -[2884.96 --> 2889.72] are fueling and shaping our prayers of faith -[2889.72 --> 2892.52] for the saints to stand firm. -[2893.46 --> 2895.18] So there's sort of three moves in there -[2895.18 --> 2896.26] that I want us to see. -[2896.38 --> 2899.78] First, stories of faith fueling and shaping us -[2899.78 --> 2903.40] and stories of faith directing our prayers -[2903.40 --> 2904.54] in a particular way -[2904.54 --> 2907.18] and stories of faith and prayers -[2907.18 --> 2910.26] being used by God -[2910.26 --> 2915.28] to make the saints, the church, stand firm. -[2916.46 --> 2919.18] Now, the part of the text that we read here -[2919.18 --> 2921.78] in 1 Thessalonians 3 -[2921.78 --> 2924.22] kind of jumps right into the middle -[2924.22 --> 2926.08] of Paul's longing and writing. -[2926.22 --> 2927.74] And if you were here last week, -[2927.84 --> 2929.72] Pastor Sean did an excellent job -[2929.72 --> 2932.78] of carrying us into this story. -[2932.78 --> 2935.52] And in verse 6, where we picked up, -[2935.60 --> 2936.00] he says, -[2936.50 --> 2940.26] Timothy has just now come to us from you. -[2941.54 --> 2943.92] And so remember, if you will, -[2944.00 --> 2944.64] what happened -[2944.64 --> 2948.74] while Paul was in Thessalonica. -[2949.60 --> 2951.50] You can read about it in Acts 17. -[2951.60 --> 2953.38] If you want to flip to it in your Bibles, -[2953.46 --> 2954.10] you can do that. -[2954.38 --> 2956.56] But let me just recap that story quickly for us. -[2957.28 --> 2959.42] Paul and his missionary partners, -[2959.62 --> 2960.74] Silas and Timothy, -[2960.74 --> 2963.08] arrived in Thessalonica -[2963.08 --> 2965.52] after spending time in Philippi. -[2966.16 --> 2967.54] When they get to Thessalonica, -[2967.70 --> 2969.36] they stay there for three weeks -[2969.36 --> 2972.52] preaching the gospel each Sabbath day, -[2972.62 --> 2973.28] which is Saturday. -[2974.24 --> 2976.06] And Paul would go to the synagogue -[2976.06 --> 2977.24] in Thessalonica, -[2977.34 --> 2978.12] and he would preach -[2978.12 --> 2979.76] that Jesus is the Messiah. -[2980.58 --> 2982.32] And as a result of this preaching ministry -[2982.32 --> 2983.68] there in Thessalonica, -[2983.80 --> 2985.00] some of the Jews believed, -[2985.00 --> 2987.08] we read in Acts 17, verse 4, -[2987.56 --> 2988.96] so did a number of Greeks, -[2989.38 --> 2992.44] and so did quite a few prominent women, -[2992.72 --> 2993.16] Paul writes, -[2994.02 --> 2995.32] or Luke writes in Acts. -[2996.58 --> 3000.46] Now, because of this ministry success there, -[3000.80 --> 3002.78] some of the other Jews became jealous, -[3002.78 --> 3005.28] and they started a riot in the city. -[3005.42 --> 3007.32] And they blamed that riot -[3007.32 --> 3008.56] on the early Christians. -[3008.56 --> 3011.80] And then this mob goes to Jason's house, -[3012.04 --> 3013.72] where Paul, Silas, and Timothy -[3013.72 --> 3014.76] were likely staying, -[3015.34 --> 3016.60] and they take Jason -[3016.60 --> 3018.34] and some other of the early Christians -[3018.34 --> 3020.04] before the city officials, -[3020.42 --> 3022.28] accusing them of sedition -[3022.28 --> 3024.72] and causing trouble all over the world. -[3024.98 --> 3026.66] That's in Acts 17, 6, and 7. -[3027.22 --> 3028.58] And Jason and the others -[3028.58 --> 3031.74] are fined and likely put under watch. -[3032.08 --> 3032.92] That is, there's somebody -[3032.92 --> 3034.26] probably watching their house. -[3034.26 --> 3036.60] Now, that same night, -[3037.12 --> 3039.62] the believers send Paul -[3039.62 --> 3041.06] and Silas and Timothy -[3041.06 --> 3043.10] to the next city over, -[3043.26 --> 3044.54] to the city of Berea. -[3046.42 --> 3049.00] Now, when the Jewish leaders found out, -[3049.08 --> 3050.58] the Jewish leaders in Thessalonica -[3050.58 --> 3052.76] hear that Paul and Silas and Timothy -[3052.76 --> 3054.36] have made their way to Berea, -[3054.62 --> 3056.20] a group of the Jewish leaders -[3056.20 --> 3057.98] from Thessalonica follow Paul -[3057.98 --> 3059.44] to Berea, -[3059.56 --> 3061.22] and they stir up trouble there -[3061.22 --> 3062.24] for them as well. -[3062.66 --> 3064.10] And so the Christians in Berea -[3064.10 --> 3066.10] send Paul down the coast -[3066.10 --> 3067.36] towards Athens, -[3067.64 --> 3070.42] and we read that Silas and Timothy -[3070.42 --> 3072.36] stayed back in Berea. -[3073.72 --> 3076.48] From Athens, Paul goes to Corinth, -[3076.74 --> 3078.00] where he ends up staying -[3078.00 --> 3079.22] for a year and a half. -[3080.20 --> 3081.62] And probably early on -[3081.62 --> 3083.72] in his stay in Corinth, -[3083.92 --> 3086.12] Silas and Timothy join him again, -[3086.50 --> 3088.52] we read in Acts 18, 5, -[3088.78 --> 3089.82] from Macedonia. -[3090.22 --> 3092.18] And so that's where Thessalonica is. -[3092.18 --> 3094.24] So Timothy has gone back -[3094.24 --> 3095.84] to the churches -[3095.84 --> 3098.40] and the church in Thessalonica -[3098.40 --> 3101.12] and now comes back to Paul -[3101.12 --> 3103.74] while he is in the city of Corinth. -[3104.24 --> 3106.60] And this is where Paul writes the letter. -[3106.74 --> 3107.38] And so Paul, -[3107.60 --> 3109.24] hearing this message from Timothy -[3109.24 --> 3110.52] about the faithfulness -[3110.52 --> 3112.50] of the Christians in Thessalonica, -[3113.22 --> 3115.52] when he and Silas join him, -[3116.22 --> 3118.64] he writes this letter of thanksgiving -[3118.64 --> 3121.30] and encouragement to the church there, -[3121.44 --> 3123.10] sometime around A.D. 50, -[3123.30 --> 3124.38] maybe A.D. 51. -[3125.36 --> 3126.82] And Paul is so excited -[3126.82 --> 3128.62] and so grateful for the news -[3128.62 --> 3131.64] that he hears about their faith and love. -[3132.64 --> 3135.48] In fact, the way Paul reflects that here -[3135.48 --> 3136.72] is really interesting. -[3137.28 --> 3137.88] Paul writes, -[3138.40 --> 3140.08] Timothy has brought us, -[3140.14 --> 3141.02] and you can see it there -[3141.02 --> 3142.28] at the end of, -[3142.52 --> 3143.54] in the middle of verse 6, -[3143.64 --> 3144.64] brought us good news -[3144.64 --> 3147.56] news about your faith and love. -[3148.46 --> 3150.44] That word that Paul uses there -[3150.44 --> 3151.96] that's translated good news -[3151.96 --> 3154.66] is euangelizomai, -[3155.02 --> 3156.54] which is the Greek word -[3156.54 --> 3158.24] that's most often, -[3158.36 --> 3160.02] actually in every other case, -[3160.48 --> 3161.90] translated as gospel -[3161.90 --> 3164.44] or translated as the good news -[3164.44 --> 3165.66] about Jesus' life, -[3165.96 --> 3166.18] death, -[3166.64 --> 3167.32] and resurrection. -[3167.32 --> 3170.62] Now, I think there's something beautiful -[3170.62 --> 3171.80] going on -[3171.80 --> 3174.62] in the use of this word choice here -[3174.62 --> 3175.70] for Paul, right? -[3175.78 --> 3178.18] Writing in the power of the Holy Spirit, -[3178.44 --> 3179.86] there's something magnificent -[3179.86 --> 3181.42] and compelling for us -[3181.42 --> 3182.72] in this language. -[3183.78 --> 3185.28] What I want to suggest to you -[3185.28 --> 3186.02] is that Paul -[3186.02 --> 3188.76] is treating their perseverance -[3188.76 --> 3190.48] in the faith -[3190.48 --> 3192.58] as gospel. -[3193.94 --> 3194.26] Right? -[3194.38 --> 3195.18] Their standing -[3195.18 --> 3196.48] is confirmation -[3196.48 --> 3198.38] of the goodness -[3198.38 --> 3199.98] and the truth -[3199.98 --> 3201.18] of the gospel. -[3202.02 --> 3203.54] Their standing firm -[3203.54 --> 3205.68] as those who have received it -[3205.68 --> 3206.44] is confirmation -[3206.44 --> 3208.36] that the gospel message -[3208.36 --> 3209.28] is effective -[3209.28 --> 3210.60] in their life. -[3211.52 --> 3211.74] Right? -[3211.82 --> 3213.10] Their life and faith -[3213.10 --> 3214.70] through the struggle, -[3214.98 --> 3216.00] through the suffering, -[3216.44 --> 3217.30] through the trial, -[3217.50 --> 3218.36] through the hardship -[3218.36 --> 3219.58] is, -[3220.50 --> 3221.32] for Paul, -[3221.32 --> 3223.32] a form of proclaiming -[3224.16 --> 3225.10] the gospel. -[3225.18 --> 3228.46] So here's what I want us -[3228.46 --> 3229.24] to hear. -[3230.64 --> 3231.64] There is a sense, -[3232.14 --> 3234.48] there is a sense -[3234.48 --> 3234.98] in which -[3234.98 --> 3236.68] your perseverance -[3236.68 --> 3238.38] in hard things -[3238.38 --> 3239.56] of faith -[3239.56 --> 3240.96] is because -[3240.96 --> 3242.46] of God's -[3242.46 --> 3243.24] preservation -[3243.24 --> 3245.68] of your faith -[3245.68 --> 3246.88] by His grace. -[3249.02 --> 3250.44] Let me say that again. -[3251.18 --> 3252.42] Your perseverance, -[3253.06 --> 3254.52] that is your stick-to-itiveness, -[3254.52 --> 3255.90] in faith, -[3255.90 --> 3257.16] in the hard things -[3257.16 --> 3257.68] of life -[3257.68 --> 3258.28] and of faith -[3258.28 --> 3259.18] is because -[3259.18 --> 3262.48] God is preserving you, -[3262.60 --> 3264.68] He is holding you fast -[3264.68 --> 3266.28] by His grace. -[3267.40 --> 3268.74] Standing firm -[3268.74 --> 3269.60] to the end -[3269.60 --> 3271.48] is part of -[3271.48 --> 3272.46] proclaiming -[3272.46 --> 3273.34] the gospel -[3273.34 --> 3274.18] and part of -[3274.18 --> 3274.94] proclaiming -[3274.94 --> 3275.78] the gospel -[3275.78 --> 3277.08] is proclaiming -[3277.08 --> 3277.72] the truth -[3277.72 --> 3279.00] of standing firm -[3279.00 --> 3279.68] to the end -[3279.68 --> 3280.94] based on -[3280.94 --> 3281.68] God's -[3281.68 --> 3283.12] preservation -[3283.12 --> 3284.52] by His grace. -[3285.14 --> 3285.36] Now, -[3286.12 --> 3286.98] I understand -[3286.98 --> 3288.52] maybe it's too early -[3288.52 --> 3289.06] in the morning -[3289.06 --> 3290.12] for this kind -[3290.12 --> 3290.62] of doctrine, -[3291.06 --> 3292.76] but I want to give you -[3292.76 --> 3293.86] at least two reasons -[3293.86 --> 3295.16] why this idea -[3295.16 --> 3296.72] is so crucial -[3296.72 --> 3298.14] and why this matters -[3298.14 --> 3298.66] for us. -[3299.54 --> 3300.16] One, -[3301.26 --> 3303.78] this truth, -[3304.02 --> 3304.94] this reality -[3304.94 --> 3307.08] that we persevere -[3307.08 --> 3308.02] in hard things -[3308.02 --> 3308.64] because God -[3308.64 --> 3309.86] is preserving us -[3309.86 --> 3310.78] by His grace, -[3311.36 --> 3312.16] this truth -[3312.16 --> 3313.46] matters for us -[3313.46 --> 3314.24] because it means -[3314.24 --> 3315.80] that whatever trial -[3315.80 --> 3316.96] you are facing -[3316.96 --> 3318.46] or may one day face, -[3319.74 --> 3320.52] whatever hardship -[3320.52 --> 3321.64] you are going through -[3321.64 --> 3322.48] or may one day -[3322.48 --> 3323.20] go through, -[3323.26 --> 3324.00] whatever struggle -[3324.00 --> 3325.24] you are currently -[3325.24 --> 3326.18] in the midst of, -[3326.24 --> 3327.64] and even if it is -[3327.64 --> 3328.84] feeling absolutely -[3328.84 --> 3330.52] and utterly overwhelming, -[3330.52 --> 3333.82] whatever it is, -[3334.82 --> 3335.92] it is a chance -[3335.92 --> 3336.96] to proclaim -[3336.96 --> 3338.30] the gospel -[3338.30 --> 3340.32] or for the gospel -[3340.32 --> 3341.38] to be proclaimed -[3341.38 --> 3342.76] in and through -[3342.76 --> 3343.68] your life -[3343.68 --> 3344.40] and story. -[3345.40 --> 3346.24] In fact, -[3346.78 --> 3348.40] even if -[3348.40 --> 3349.64] that trial -[3349.64 --> 3351.52] goes unto death, -[3352.34 --> 3353.20] this is a chance -[3353.20 --> 3353.90] to proclaim -[3353.90 --> 3355.22] the gospel. -[3358.10 --> 3359.40] I have a friend -[3359.40 --> 3360.60] who, -[3361.22 --> 3362.52] excuse me, -[3362.54 --> 3363.28] who this week -[3363.28 --> 3364.80] is walking -[3364.80 --> 3365.40] through -[3365.40 --> 3367.06] three deaths -[3367.06 --> 3368.50] and three funerals -[3368.50 --> 3369.42] in his community -[3369.42 --> 3372.10] and he relayed -[3372.10 --> 3372.62] to us -[3372.62 --> 3373.32] a story -[3373.32 --> 3375.04] from someone -[3375.04 --> 3375.78] that he was -[3375.78 --> 3376.60] ministering to -[3376.60 --> 3377.42] while she was -[3377.42 --> 3378.14] on her deathbed. -[3379.20 --> 3380.10] And as he was -[3380.10 --> 3380.82] talking to her, -[3380.90 --> 3381.24] he said, -[3381.66 --> 3381.84] you know, -[3381.90 --> 3382.48] all of this -[3382.48 --> 3383.10] must be really -[3383.10 --> 3383.88] hard to face. -[3385.62 --> 3386.44] And she looked -[3386.44 --> 3387.16] him in the eyes, -[3387.96 --> 3388.42] bless her -[3388.42 --> 3389.56] 93-year-old -[3389.56 --> 3390.30] saintly heart -[3390.30 --> 3391.64] and said, -[3391.84 --> 3392.56] don't worry -[3392.56 --> 3393.12] about me, -[3393.68 --> 3394.84] it's only death. -[3396.34 --> 3397.70] It's only death. -[3399.74 --> 3400.68] That's the kind -[3400.68 --> 3401.26] of story -[3401.26 --> 3402.64] that proclaims -[3402.64 --> 3403.20] the gospel. -[3404.90 --> 3405.10] Right? -[3405.12 --> 3405.54] And I've seen -[3405.54 --> 3406.34] it so many times, -[3406.44 --> 3407.24] not just from -[3407.24 --> 3408.44] 93-year-old seasoned -[3408.44 --> 3408.80] saints, -[3408.92 --> 3410.04] but from 30-year-olds -[3410.04 --> 3411.30] diagnosed with cancer, -[3412.00 --> 3413.26] from 50-year-olds -[3413.26 --> 3414.56] with ALS. -[3414.56 --> 3416.36] Right? -[3416.58 --> 3417.56] Even death -[3417.56 --> 3418.64] and facing death -[3418.64 --> 3419.28] is a chance -[3419.28 --> 3420.08] to proclaim -[3420.08 --> 3420.72] the truth -[3420.72 --> 3421.38] of the gospel, -[3421.88 --> 3422.54] especially -[3422.54 --> 3424.22] as we read it -[3424.22 --> 3424.96] in light of -[3424.96 --> 3426.42] 1 Corinthians 15. -[3427.40 --> 3428.14] This is worth -[3428.14 --> 3428.64] looking at, -[3428.68 --> 3429.02] and so we're -[3429.02 --> 3429.42] going to put it -[3429.42 --> 3429.96] on the screen -[3429.96 --> 3431.50] behind us. -[3431.98 --> 3432.72] Starting in -[3432.72 --> 3433.54] verse 54, -[3434.50 --> 3435.18] Paul says, -[3435.70 --> 3436.90] death has been -[3436.90 --> 3437.66] swallowed up -[3437.66 --> 3438.36] in victory. -[3438.98 --> 3439.52] Where, -[3439.70 --> 3440.12] O death, -[3440.12 --> 3441.02] is your victory? -[3441.20 --> 3441.46] Where, -[3441.56 --> 3441.98] O death, -[3442.06 --> 3442.86] is your sting? -[3442.86 --> 3444.54] The sting of death -[3444.54 --> 3445.26] is sin, -[3445.38 --> 3446.00] and the power -[3446.00 --> 3446.48] of sin -[3446.48 --> 3447.22] is the law, -[3447.62 --> 3448.66] but thanks be -[3448.66 --> 3449.36] to God, -[3449.46 --> 3450.30] he gives us -[3450.30 --> 3450.86] the victory -[3450.86 --> 3451.80] through our Lord -[3451.80 --> 3453.00] Jesus Christ. -[3453.10 --> 3453.90] That's the gospel. -[3455.70 --> 3456.76] Death has died -[3456.76 --> 3457.42] by the death -[3457.42 --> 3458.04] of Christ. -[3458.64 --> 3459.58] Victory is ours -[3459.58 --> 3460.36] by the resurrection -[3460.36 --> 3460.94] of Christ. -[3461.32 --> 3462.48] Victory over death -[3462.48 --> 3463.38] and victory -[3463.38 --> 3464.48] over the sting -[3464.48 --> 3465.22] of death, -[3465.38 --> 3466.24] which is sin. -[3468.22 --> 3469.42] That's the gospel. -[3470.64 --> 3471.28] And then listen -[3471.28 --> 3472.26] to what Paul says -[3472.26 --> 3473.16] immediately after. -[3474.48 --> 3475.32] He gives this -[3475.32 --> 3476.38] gospel presentation -[3476.38 --> 3477.66] about life -[3477.66 --> 3478.34] in the face -[3478.34 --> 3479.00] of death -[3479.00 --> 3480.26] and gospel -[3480.26 --> 3481.12] in the face -[3481.12 --> 3482.10] of death -[3482.10 --> 3482.68] and the gospel -[3482.68 --> 3483.40] of victory -[3483.40 --> 3484.44] over sin -[3484.44 --> 3484.94] and death, -[3485.06 --> 3485.74] and then he says, -[3486.22 --> 3486.56] therefore, -[3487.20 --> 3488.16] my dear brothers -[3488.16 --> 3489.44] and sisters, -[3490.10 --> 3491.36] stand firm. -[3492.20 --> 3493.50] Let nothing -[3493.50 --> 3494.80] move you. -[3496.48 --> 3497.56] Stand firm. -[3497.70 --> 3498.38] Let nothing -[3498.38 --> 3499.02] move you, -[3499.06 --> 3499.58] or the language -[3499.58 --> 3500.02] of Paul -[3500.02 --> 3501.36] from last time, -[3501.48 --> 3502.44] or let nothing -[3502.44 --> 3503.70] unsettle you. -[3504.54 --> 3504.76] Right? -[3504.78 --> 3505.96] It's the same language -[3505.96 --> 3507.18] in 1 Corinthians -[3507.18 --> 3507.98] that Paul has been -[3507.98 --> 3508.48] using here -[3508.48 --> 3509.22] in Thessalonians. -[3510.22 --> 3511.32] And what does it -[3511.32 --> 3511.96] mean in summary? -[3512.68 --> 3513.22] Don't worry -[3513.22 --> 3513.78] about me. -[3514.44 --> 3515.44] It's only death. -[3517.04 --> 3517.80] Don't worry -[3517.80 --> 3518.34] about me. -[3519.00 --> 3521.16] It's only death. -[3523.04 --> 3523.60] Imagine, -[3523.60 --> 3526.92] imagine it, -[3527.92 --> 3529.22] your faith -[3529.22 --> 3532.04] proclaims the gospel -[3532.04 --> 3534.24] in every trial -[3534.24 --> 3535.22] you face, -[3535.62 --> 3536.82] every temptation -[3536.82 --> 3537.90] that you endure, -[3538.06 --> 3538.98] every victory -[3538.98 --> 3539.74] over sin -[3539.74 --> 3540.70] that you experience, -[3540.78 --> 3542.26] you give testimony to, -[3542.44 --> 3543.32] and you proclaim -[3543.32 --> 3544.16] the gospel -[3544.16 --> 3545.64] by persevering, -[3546.04 --> 3546.98] by having this -[3546.98 --> 3547.76] victory, -[3548.44 --> 3549.66] by living transformed. -[3549.66 --> 3551.54] You proclaim -[3551.54 --> 3552.10] the gospel -[3552.10 --> 3553.66] by not being moved, -[3554.06 --> 3554.88] by remaining -[3554.88 --> 3556.62] settled in your faith -[3556.62 --> 3557.74] and in your love, -[3558.54 --> 3560.02] by standing firm -[3560.02 --> 3561.44] for the truth -[3561.44 --> 3563.64] and in love. -[3566.22 --> 3567.32] That's why -[3567.32 --> 3569.06] this matters. -[3569.06 --> 3574.00] And two, -[3575.26 --> 3576.16] second reason -[3576.16 --> 3577.02] why this doctrine -[3577.02 --> 3578.24] matters, -[3578.44 --> 3578.80] that we -[3578.80 --> 3580.12] persevere -[3580.12 --> 3581.50] because of God's -[3581.50 --> 3582.86] preservation. -[3584.14 --> 3585.32] This matters -[3585.32 --> 3586.40] because -[3586.40 --> 3587.96] what we're beginning -[3587.96 --> 3588.70] to see -[3588.70 --> 3590.50] is the implicit -[3590.50 --> 3591.58] promise of God -[3591.58 --> 3593.04] given in the gospel -[3593.04 --> 3594.82] made explicit -[3594.82 --> 3596.42] by our living -[3596.42 --> 3597.60] in response -[3597.60 --> 3598.18] to it. -[3599.06 --> 3600.48] If you believe -[3600.48 --> 3601.40] and have faith, -[3601.48 --> 3602.36] if you have accepted -[3602.36 --> 3603.04] the truth -[3603.04 --> 3604.08] of the gospel -[3604.08 --> 3604.82] by faith -[3604.82 --> 3606.40] and have received -[3606.40 --> 3607.58] God's love, -[3607.96 --> 3608.96] the truth is -[3608.96 --> 3609.70] there is now -[3609.70 --> 3610.24] nothing -[3610.24 --> 3611.56] that can separate -[3611.56 --> 3612.46] you from the love -[3612.46 --> 3612.82] of God -[3612.82 --> 3613.48] that is available -[3613.48 --> 3614.34] in Christ Jesus. -[3615.76 --> 3616.64] Jesus says -[3616.64 --> 3617.20] in the gospel -[3617.20 --> 3617.70] of John -[3617.70 --> 3618.42] in John 6, -[3619.34 --> 3620.18] he says, -[3620.78 --> 3621.58] all those -[3621.58 --> 3622.88] the Father gives me -[3622.88 --> 3623.98] will come to me -[3623.98 --> 3624.54] and whoever -[3624.54 --> 3625.64] comes to me -[3625.64 --> 3626.46] I will never -[3626.46 --> 3627.22] drive away -[3627.22 --> 3628.76] for I have -[3628.76 --> 3629.26] come down -[3629.26 --> 3629.74] from heaven -[3629.74 --> 3630.34] not to do -[3630.34 --> 3631.00] my will -[3631.00 --> 3631.54] but to do -[3631.54 --> 3631.94] the will -[3631.94 --> 3632.32] of him -[3632.32 --> 3633.02] who sent me -[3633.02 --> 3633.98] and this -[3633.98 --> 3634.94] is the will -[3634.94 --> 3635.42] of him -[3635.42 --> 3636.24] who sent me -[3636.24 --> 3637.24] that I -[3637.24 --> 3638.10] shall lose -[3638.10 --> 3638.70] none -[3638.70 --> 3639.68] of all -[3639.68 --> 3640.14] those -[3640.14 --> 3640.66] he has -[3640.66 --> 3641.42] given me -[3641.42 --> 3642.64] but raise -[3642.64 --> 3643.46] them up -[3643.46 --> 3644.82] on the last -[3644.82 --> 3645.14] day. -[3646.14 --> 3647.14] I shall -[3647.14 --> 3648.06] lose none -[3648.06 --> 3649.52] of all -[3649.52 --> 3649.84] those -[3649.84 --> 3650.20] he has -[3650.20 --> 3650.76] given me. -[3651.30 --> 3652.22] This too -[3652.22 --> 3653.70] is the gospel. -[3653.70 --> 3655.94] You can -[3655.94 --> 3656.74] persevere -[3656.74 --> 3657.38] because you -[3657.38 --> 3657.88] are being -[3657.88 --> 3658.40] preserved -[3658.40 --> 3659.46] by God. -[3660.30 --> 3660.92] Your right -[3660.92 --> 3661.72] now trial -[3661.72 --> 3662.66] can be faced -[3662.66 --> 3663.40] with the kind -[3663.40 --> 3664.08] of sovereign -[3664.08 --> 3665.04] God confidence -[3665.04 --> 3665.86] that comes -[3665.86 --> 3666.26] from this -[3666.26 --> 3666.68] truth. -[3667.62 --> 3668.04] The truth -[3668.04 --> 3668.46] that not a -[3668.46 --> 3668.92] hair can -[3668.92 --> 3669.38] fall from -[3669.38 --> 3669.78] your head -[3669.78 --> 3670.36] without the -[3670.36 --> 3671.26] will of -[3671.26 --> 3671.94] our God -[3671.94 --> 3672.38] in heaven. -[3672.54 --> 3673.04] That kind -[3673.04 --> 3673.68] of confidence -[3673.68 --> 3674.56] undergirds -[3674.56 --> 3675.32] your facing -[3675.32 --> 3675.80] trials. -[3676.50 --> 3677.04] The truth -[3677.04 --> 3677.38] that all -[3677.38 --> 3678.22] things must -[3678.22 --> 3678.84] work together -[3678.84 --> 3679.26] for his -[3679.26 --> 3679.82] glory and -[3679.82 --> 3680.24] for your -[3680.24 --> 3680.56] good. -[3680.90 --> 3681.36] That kind -[3681.36 --> 3681.94] of confidence -[3681.94 --> 3682.64] is the -[3682.64 --> 3683.14] foundation -[3683.14 --> 3684.06] onto which -[3684.06 --> 3684.82] you step -[3684.82 --> 3685.60] forward -[3685.60 --> 3687.32] into whatever -[3687.32 --> 3688.18] it is -[3688.18 --> 3689.32] that God -[3689.32 --> 3689.86] calls you. -[3690.70 --> 3690.98] Your -[3690.98 --> 3692.00] persevering -[3692.00 --> 3692.70] in trial -[3692.70 --> 3693.70] and suffering -[3693.70 --> 3695.12] is gospel -[3695.12 --> 3695.86] because it -[3695.86 --> 3696.60] is a -[3696.60 --> 3697.56] lived message -[3697.56 --> 3698.32] of God -[3698.32 --> 3698.94] preserving -[3698.94 --> 3699.44] you. -[3699.90 --> 3700.12] No matter -[3700.12 --> 3700.74] what trial -[3700.74 --> 3701.44] you face, -[3701.70 --> 3701.86] no matter -[3701.86 --> 3702.44] what struggle -[3702.44 --> 3702.98] you find -[3702.98 --> 3703.48] yourself in, -[3703.56 --> 3704.08] God is -[3704.08 --> 3704.72] with you -[3704.72 --> 3705.32] and he -[3705.32 --> 3705.88] is telling -[3705.88 --> 3706.58] the story -[3706.58 --> 3707.08] of his -[3707.08 --> 3707.54] gospel -[3707.54 --> 3708.26] through -[3708.26 --> 3709.28] your story -[3709.28 --> 3710.90] that he -[3710.90 --> 3711.26] will not -[3711.26 --> 3711.52] lose -[3711.52 --> 3712.16] any -[3712.16 --> 3713.22] the -[3713.22 --> 3713.46] father -[3713.46 --> 3713.68] has -[3713.68 --> 3713.90] given -[3713.90 --> 3714.20] him. -[3715.70 --> 3715.98] Or to -[3715.98 --> 3716.32] put it -[3716.32 --> 3717.48] like Paul -[3717.48 --> 3717.84] does in -[3717.84 --> 3719.92] 2 Corinthians -[3719.92 --> 3722.14] we are -[3722.14 --> 3722.86] afflicted -[3722.86 --> 3723.50] in every -[3723.50 --> 3723.88] way -[3723.88 --> 3724.28] but not -[3724.28 --> 3724.66] crushed, -[3725.90 --> 3726.66] perplexed -[3726.66 --> 3727.16] but not -[3727.16 --> 3727.56] driven to -[3727.56 --> 3727.98] despair, -[3728.74 --> 3729.28] persecuted -[3729.28 --> 3729.76] but not -[3729.76 --> 3730.24] forsaken, -[3730.62 --> 3731.18] struck down -[3731.18 --> 3731.58] but not -[3731.58 --> 3732.08] destroyed, -[3732.46 --> 3733.38] always carrying -[3733.38 --> 3733.82] in the -[3733.82 --> 3734.32] body the -[3734.32 --> 3734.76] death of -[3734.76 --> 3735.34] Jesus so -[3735.34 --> 3735.68] that the -[3735.68 --> 3736.24] life of -[3736.24 --> 3737.16] Jesus may -[3737.16 --> 3737.74] also be -[3737.74 --> 3738.36] manifested -[3738.36 --> 3739.22] in our -[3739.22 --> 3740.14] bodies. -[3741.26 --> 3742.86] what's -[3742.86 --> 3743.42] the story? -[3744.42 --> 3745.00] Are you -[3745.00 --> 3745.58] afflicted -[3745.58 --> 3747.38] in every -[3747.38 --> 3747.68] way -[3747.68 --> 3749.14] but not -[3749.14 --> 3749.56] crushed? -[3750.86 --> 3751.50] Are you -[3751.50 --> 3752.12] perplexed -[3752.12 --> 3752.68] and confused -[3752.68 --> 3753.40] and unsure -[3753.40 --> 3753.90] of why -[3753.90 --> 3754.26] this is -[3754.26 --> 3754.60] happening? -[3755.16 --> 3755.62] Absolutely -[3755.62 --> 3756.38] but I'm -[3756.38 --> 3756.80] not driven -[3756.80 --> 3757.46] to despair -[3757.46 --> 3758.40] because of -[3758.40 --> 3758.76] who God -[3758.76 --> 3759.06] is. -[3759.98 --> 3760.60] Are you -[3760.60 --> 3761.14] persecuted? -[3761.28 --> 3761.44] Are you -[3761.44 --> 3761.82] cut off -[3761.82 --> 3762.26] from certain -[3762.26 --> 3762.62] places? -[3762.76 --> 3762.94] Are you -[3762.94 --> 3763.36] excluded -[3763.36 --> 3763.80] from others? -[3763.90 --> 3764.06] Are you -[3764.06 --> 3764.50] made fun -[3764.50 --> 3764.98] of for -[3764.98 --> 3765.38] the faith -[3765.38 --> 3765.60] that you -[3765.60 --> 3765.88] have? -[3766.34 --> 3766.72] Sure -[3766.72 --> 3767.76] absolutely -[3767.76 --> 3768.22] but I -[3768.22 --> 3768.84] am never -[3768.84 --> 3769.42] forsaken -[3769.42 --> 3770.24] and never -[3770.24 --> 3770.72] forgotten. -[3772.58 --> 3773.28] Are you -[3773.28 --> 3773.86] knocked down -[3773.86 --> 3774.38] every once -[3774.38 --> 3774.92] in a while? -[3775.42 --> 3775.82] Yes -[3775.82 --> 3777.22] but never -[3777.22 --> 3778.40] destroyed -[3778.40 --> 3779.26] never -[3779.26 --> 3780.18] out. -[3781.62 --> 3782.24] Your -[3782.24 --> 3782.88] suffering -[3782.88 --> 3784.08] tells the -[3784.08 --> 3784.70] story -[3784.70 --> 3785.60] of the -[3785.60 --> 3786.06] gospel. -[3786.50 --> 3786.68] Your -[3786.68 --> 3787.80] persevering -[3787.80 --> 3788.58] tells the -[3788.58 --> 3789.06] story -[3789.06 --> 3790.06] of Jesus -[3790.06 --> 3791.18] always -[3791.18 --> 3791.90] carrying -[3791.90 --> 3792.46] in the -[3792.46 --> 3792.86] body -[3792.86 --> 3793.42] the death -[3793.42 --> 3794.10] of Jesus -[3794.10 --> 3797.68] so that -[3797.68 --> 3798.18] the life -[3798.18 --> 3798.92] of Jesus -[3798.92 --> 3799.98] may also -[3799.98 --> 3800.56] be manifest -[3800.56 --> 3801.88] in our -[3801.88 --> 3802.28] bodies. -[3804.68 --> 3805.52] This -[3805.52 --> 3805.98] matters -[3805.98 --> 3808.20] because your -[3808.20 --> 3808.84] suffering -[3808.84 --> 3810.32] matters. -[3811.40 --> 3811.94] Your -[3811.94 --> 3812.44] suffering -[3812.44 --> 3812.82] your -[3812.82 --> 3813.30] trials -[3813.30 --> 3813.52] your -[3813.52 --> 3814.02] hardship -[3814.02 --> 3815.18] tell -[3815.18 --> 3815.72] the -[3815.72 --> 3816.16] gospel. -[3816.72 --> 3816.86] Your -[3816.86 --> 3817.34] suffering -[3817.34 --> 3818.22] proclaims -[3818.22 --> 3818.60] Jesus -[3818.60 --> 3819.12] Christ -[3819.12 --> 3819.54] and him -[3819.54 --> 3820.28] crucified -[3820.28 --> 3820.82] and as -[3820.82 --> 3821.24] Christians -[3821.24 --> 3822.12] we need -[3822.12 --> 3822.64] to learn -[3822.64 --> 3823.04] how to -[3823.04 --> 3823.36] suffer -[3823.36 --> 3823.82] well. -[3824.10 --> 3825.30] We need -[3825.30 --> 3825.70] to learn -[3825.70 --> 3826.08] how to -[3826.08 --> 3826.44] suffer -[3826.44 --> 3827.40] for the -[3827.40 --> 3827.84] gospel. -[3829.40 --> 3829.88] And part -[3829.88 --> 3830.22] of how -[3830.22 --> 3830.76] we do -[3830.76 --> 3831.32] that is -[3831.32 --> 3831.70] learning -[3831.70 --> 3832.34] that our -[3832.34 --> 3832.78] suffering -[3832.78 --> 3834.08] tells the -[3834.08 --> 3834.48] gospel. -[3835.56 --> 3836.32] There is a -[3836.32 --> 3836.86] confidence -[3836.86 --> 3837.82] that comes -[3837.82 --> 3838.34] to us -[3838.34 --> 3839.26] here and -[3839.26 --> 3840.08] now because -[3840.08 --> 3840.52] our -[3840.52 --> 3841.32] suffering -[3841.32 --> 3842.16] our -[3842.16 --> 3843.12] trials -[3843.12 --> 3844.42] perplexing -[3844.42 --> 3844.84] though they -[3844.84 --> 3845.48] may be -[3845.48 --> 3846.58] are always -[3846.58 --> 3847.34] in the -[3847.34 --> 3847.92] hands of -[3847.92 --> 3848.40] a sovereign -[3848.40 --> 3848.86] God. -[3848.86 --> 3849.32] God -[3849.32 --> 3855.62] now let -[3855.62 --> 3855.80] me be -[3855.80 --> 3856.04] really -[3856.04 --> 3856.44] clear -[3856.44 --> 3858.78] that -[3858.78 --> 3859.24] sort -[3859.24 --> 3859.40] of -[3859.40 --> 3859.80] gospel -[3859.80 --> 3860.50] confidence -[3860.50 --> 3861.90] shows up -[3861.90 --> 3862.30] in your -[3862.30 --> 3862.72] life -[3862.72 --> 3863.50] in so -[3863.50 --> 3863.72] many -[3863.72 --> 3864.12] ways -[3864.12 --> 3866.64] but that -[3866.64 --> 3866.94] sort of -[3866.94 --> 3867.28] gospel -[3867.28 --> 3868.10] confidence -[3868.10 --> 3869.22] ought to -[3869.22 --> 3870.06] never show -[3870.06 --> 3871.24] up as -[3871.24 --> 3871.70] arrogance -[3871.70 --> 3872.66] or -[3872.66 --> 3873.36] haughtiness -[3873.36 --> 3875.60] instead our -[3875.60 --> 3876.56] gospel confidence -[3876.56 --> 3877.36] shows up in -[3877.36 --> 3877.92] humility -[3877.92 --> 3879.40] and in -[3879.40 --> 3879.88] submission. -[3881.92 --> 3882.32] Gospel -[3882.32 --> 3882.94] confidence -[3882.94 --> 3884.14] manifests in -[3884.14 --> 3885.20] your humble -[3885.20 --> 3886.36] service of -[3886.36 --> 3887.06] others and -[3887.06 --> 3887.84] your loving -[3887.84 --> 3889.04] of everyone -[3889.04 --> 3889.78] around you -[3889.78 --> 3890.76] putting them -[3890.76 --> 3891.24] first. -[3892.28 --> 3892.58] Gospel -[3892.58 --> 3893.22] confidence -[3893.22 --> 3893.90] shows up -[3893.90 --> 3894.58] it manifests -[3894.58 --> 3894.98] in your -[3894.98 --> 3896.14] submission to -[3896.14 --> 3896.98] God's will -[3896.98 --> 3897.60] and to -[3897.60 --> 3898.24] God's way. -[3898.24 --> 3898.26] way. -[3899.52 --> 3899.76] And that -[3899.76 --> 3900.12] means he -[3900.12 --> 3900.52] gets to -[3900.52 --> 3901.28] decide what's -[3901.28 --> 3901.74] right for -[3901.74 --> 3902.30] you and he -[3902.30 --> 3902.66] gets to -[3902.66 --> 3903.60] decide how -[3903.60 --> 3904.02] we should -[3904.02 --> 3904.90] live and -[3904.90 --> 3905.44] we get to -[3905.44 --> 3905.90] say thank -[3905.90 --> 3906.10] you. -[3907.12 --> 3907.64] We get to -[3907.64 --> 3907.94] worship. -[3911.06 --> 3911.70] And now -[3911.70 --> 3912.16] it's these -[3912.16 --> 3913.26] two ideas -[3913.26 --> 3914.80] coming together -[3914.80 --> 3916.24] that motivates -[3916.24 --> 3917.70] and encourages -[3917.70 --> 3918.82] Paul as he -[3918.82 --> 3919.56] sees God at -[3919.56 --> 3919.82] work. -[3920.46 --> 3920.58] Right? -[3920.64 --> 3921.02] He says -[3921.02 --> 3922.78] therefore -[3922.78 --> 3923.44] brothers and -[3923.44 --> 3924.00] sisters in -[3924.00 --> 3924.48] all our -[3924.48 --> 3925.38] distress and -[3925.38 --> 3926.32] persecution we -[3926.32 --> 3927.48] were encouraged -[3927.48 --> 3928.56] about you -[3928.56 --> 3929.60] because of -[3929.60 --> 3930.98] your faith. -[3931.80 --> 3932.16] Right? -[3932.20 --> 3932.76] In the face -[3932.76 --> 3933.32] of Paul's -[3933.32 --> 3934.18] own trials -[3934.18 --> 3935.30] in the face -[3935.30 --> 3935.80] of his own -[3935.80 --> 3936.40] suffering and -[3936.40 --> 3937.40] persecution he -[3937.40 --> 3938.14] is encouraged -[3938.14 --> 3939.68] by the stories -[3939.68 --> 3940.42] of their -[3940.42 --> 3941.24] faithfulness -[3941.24 --> 3942.06] in trial. -[3943.28 --> 3943.50] Right? -[3943.54 --> 3944.12] Here's the thing -[3944.12 --> 3944.46] from that. -[3944.52 --> 3944.86] This is what -[3944.86 --> 3945.12] we've been -[3945.12 --> 3945.58] saying that -[3945.58 --> 3946.60] stories about -[3946.60 --> 3947.42] your faith -[3947.42 --> 3948.48] fuels my -[3948.48 --> 3948.88] faith. -[3949.92 --> 3950.44] And stories -[3950.44 --> 3951.06] about his -[3951.06 --> 3951.86] faith fuels -[3951.86 --> 3952.52] her faith. -[3954.10 --> 3954.34] Right? -[3954.38 --> 3954.76] And stories -[3954.76 --> 3955.34] about their -[3955.34 --> 3956.08] faith fuel -[3956.08 --> 3956.88] our faith. -[3957.48 --> 3958.38] Telling -[3958.38 --> 3959.12] these stories -[3959.12 --> 3959.64] is part -[3959.64 --> 3959.98] of what -[3959.98 --> 3961.02] God does -[3961.02 --> 3961.52] and uses -[3961.52 --> 3962.54] to preserve -[3962.54 --> 3963.22] us in -[3963.22 --> 3963.56] our own -[3963.56 --> 3964.00] trials. -[3965.28 --> 3965.66] How many -[3965.66 --> 3968.20] times has -[3968.20 --> 3969.58] sharing your -[3969.58 --> 3970.62] story come -[3970.62 --> 3971.62] back to you -[3971.62 --> 3972.86] as something -[3972.86 --> 3973.38] that has -[3973.38 --> 3973.86] helped another -[3973.86 --> 3974.58] person right -[3974.58 --> 3974.86] when they -[3974.86 --> 3975.30] needed it? -[3976.40 --> 3976.82] Or when -[3976.82 --> 3977.74] hearing stories -[3977.74 --> 3978.48] of God at -[3978.48 --> 3978.86] work in -[3978.86 --> 3979.28] some other -[3979.28 --> 3979.98] situation -[3979.98 --> 3981.86] can be used -[3981.86 --> 3982.54] by God to -[3982.54 --> 3983.32] encourage your -[3983.32 --> 3983.84] heart that -[3983.84 --> 3984.48] he's at work -[3984.48 --> 3984.94] in your -[3984.94 --> 3985.54] situation? -[3985.54 --> 3990.12] Now with -[3990.12 --> 3991.14] that, here's -[3991.14 --> 3991.60] what I hope -[3991.60 --> 3992.84] you can hear. -[3994.42 --> 3994.90] Right? -[3994.96 --> 3995.70] These stories -[3995.70 --> 3996.38] matter. -[3997.54 --> 3998.46] Your story -[3998.46 --> 3999.28] matters. -[3999.82 --> 4000.22] No matter -[4000.22 --> 4001.26] how minuscule -[4001.26 --> 4002.18] it seems -[4002.18 --> 4002.64] in the -[4002.64 --> 4003.00] moment, -[4003.38 --> 4003.88] God can -[4003.88 --> 4004.50] use your -[4004.50 --> 4005.18] story to -[4005.18 --> 4005.70] change a -[4005.70 --> 4006.04] life. -[4007.26 --> 4007.52] And no -[4007.52 --> 4007.96] matter how -[4007.96 --> 4008.62] much of a -[4008.62 --> 4009.26] story in -[4009.26 --> 4010.48] progress you -[4010.48 --> 4010.92] might be -[4010.92 --> 4011.32] or how much -[4011.32 --> 4011.84] of a work -[4011.84 --> 4012.50] in progress -[4012.50 --> 4013.20] your life -[4013.20 --> 4014.68] of discipleship -[4014.68 --> 4015.42] might be, -[4015.54 --> 4016.30] your story -[4016.30 --> 4017.12] can be used -[4017.12 --> 4017.74] by a sovereign -[4017.74 --> 4018.18] God to -[4018.18 --> 4019.42] encourage someone -[4019.42 --> 4020.06] in the midst -[4020.06 --> 4020.40] of their -[4020.40 --> 4020.86] story. -[4022.78 --> 4023.66] And so, -[4023.86 --> 4024.36] really, -[4024.82 --> 4025.32] practically, -[4026.62 --> 4027.34] how you -[4027.34 --> 4028.02] tell these -[4028.02 --> 4028.70] stories -[4028.70 --> 4029.64] matters. -[4031.74 --> 4032.46] How you -[4032.46 --> 4032.94] tell these -[4032.94 --> 4033.38] stories -[4033.38 --> 4034.20] matters. -[4034.38 --> 4034.78] When you -[4034.78 --> 4035.28] tell the -[4035.28 --> 4035.86] stories of -[4035.86 --> 4036.26] God at -[4036.26 --> 4036.66] work in -[4036.66 --> 4037.08] your life, -[4037.96 --> 4038.42] tell them -[4038.42 --> 4038.94] in a way -[4038.94 --> 4039.42] that makes -[4039.42 --> 4040.06] Jesus the -[4040.06 --> 4040.38] hero. -[4040.38 --> 4040.48] So, -[4040.48 --> 4043.64] let me -[4043.64 --> 4043.84] give you -[4043.84 --> 4044.14] an example. -[4044.24 --> 4044.70] It sounds -[4044.70 --> 4045.48] like two -[4045.48 --> 4046.32] very different -[4046.32 --> 4047.34] things to -[4047.34 --> 4047.66] say, -[4048.12 --> 4048.46] man, -[4048.58 --> 4049.06] that was -[4049.06 --> 4049.84] so hard. -[4050.06 --> 4050.78] We barely -[4050.78 --> 4051.28] made it -[4051.28 --> 4051.56] through. -[4051.82 --> 4052.14] There were -[4052.14 --> 4052.54] so many -[4052.54 --> 4053.06] times where -[4053.06 --> 4053.46] I thought -[4053.46 --> 4053.98] we were -[4053.98 --> 4054.26] just going -[4054.26 --> 4054.60] to give -[4054.60 --> 4054.86] up, -[4055.48 --> 4055.80] but I -[4055.80 --> 4056.24] figured it -[4056.24 --> 4056.90] out and -[4056.90 --> 4057.24] we got -[4057.24 --> 4057.54] there. -[4059.24 --> 4059.68] Versus, -[4060.56 --> 4060.96] man, -[4061.06 --> 4061.46] that was -[4061.46 --> 4062.32] so hard. -[4062.52 --> 4063.02] I didn't -[4063.02 --> 4063.40] think we -[4063.40 --> 4063.76] would make -[4063.76 --> 4064.10] it through. -[4064.20 --> 4064.44] There were -[4064.44 --> 4064.94] so many -[4064.94 --> 4065.80] times that -[4065.80 --> 4066.20] I wanted -[4066.20 --> 4066.60] to give -[4066.60 --> 4066.78] up. -[4066.84 --> 4067.08] But you -[4067.08 --> 4067.42] know who -[4067.42 --> 4067.92] never gave -[4067.92 --> 4068.10] up? -[4068.42 --> 4069.08] Jesus never -[4069.08 --> 4069.52] gave up. -[4069.80 --> 4070.32] God never -[4070.32 --> 4070.74] let go -[4070.74 --> 4071.04] of me. -[4071.30 --> 4071.58] Even -[4071.58 --> 4072.00] when I -[4072.00 --> 4072.34] couldn't -[4072.34 --> 4073.04] feel him, -[4073.12 --> 4073.72] I know -[4073.72 --> 4074.12] in my -[4074.12 --> 4074.60] heart of -[4074.60 --> 4075.26] faith that -[4075.26 --> 4075.54] I was -[4075.54 --> 4075.84] in his -[4075.84 --> 4076.16] hands. -[4077.30 --> 4077.88] That's a -[4077.88 --> 4078.66] different story. -[4079.84 --> 4080.26] And I -[4080.26 --> 4080.68] think some -[4080.68 --> 4081.16] of us are -[4081.16 --> 4081.86] scared to -[4081.86 --> 4082.28] talk that -[4082.28 --> 4082.50] way. -[4084.98 --> 4085.80] But maybe -[4085.80 --> 4087.68] we should -[4087.68 --> 4088.06] be more -[4088.06 --> 4089.28] scared to -[4089.28 --> 4089.66] not see -[4089.66 --> 4090.16] God act -[4090.16 --> 4090.62] that way. -[4091.86 --> 4092.48] Maybe we -[4092.48 --> 4092.72] should be -[4092.72 --> 4093.48] more concerned -[4093.48 --> 4094.32] to reveal -[4094.32 --> 4094.96] God in the -[4094.96 --> 4095.30] midst of -[4095.30 --> 4095.74] these kinds -[4095.74 --> 4096.26] of moments. -[4096.26 --> 4097.26] God's -[4097.26 --> 4097.42] love. -[4097.42 --> 4097.82] This is -[4097.82 --> 4098.26] where the -[4098.26 --> 4098.90] good -[4098.90 --> 4099.46] doctrine -[4099.46 --> 4100.60] of our -[4100.60 --> 4101.54] perseverance -[4101.54 --> 4103.42] because of -[4103.42 --> 4103.70] God's -[4103.70 --> 4104.20] preservation, -[4104.54 --> 4104.88] where the -[4104.88 --> 4105.44] good doctrine -[4105.44 --> 4105.86] of that -[4105.86 --> 4106.56] hits the -[4106.56 --> 4107.08] hard mat -[4107.08 --> 4107.60] of life. -[4108.32 --> 4108.74] Where the -[4108.74 --> 4109.22] rubber of -[4109.22 --> 4109.68] the doctrine -[4109.68 --> 4110.16] of God's -[4110.16 --> 4110.52] sovereignty -[4110.52 --> 4111.04] hits the -[4111.04 --> 4111.32] road. -[4112.26 --> 4112.46] Make -[4112.46 --> 4113.20] Jesus the -[4113.20 --> 4113.78] hero of -[4113.78 --> 4113.94] your -[4113.94 --> 4114.44] stories. -[4116.20 --> 4116.56] Second, -[4116.74 --> 4117.00] when you -[4117.00 --> 4117.70] tell these -[4117.70 --> 4118.62] stories, -[4119.78 --> 4120.82] support your -[4120.82 --> 4121.66] stories and -[4121.66 --> 4122.32] your claims -[4122.32 --> 4123.36] about God -[4123.36 --> 4124.22] from the -[4124.22 --> 4124.50] Bible. -[4125.52 --> 4126.26] Tell your -[4126.26 --> 4127.16] story within -[4127.16 --> 4128.08] the Bible's -[4128.08 --> 4128.86] own story. -[4129.36 --> 4129.66] Weave -[4129.66 --> 4130.64] Scripture into -[4130.64 --> 4131.56] your stories in -[4131.56 --> 4132.32] such a way that -[4132.32 --> 4133.54] your voice and -[4133.54 --> 4134.14] the voice of -[4134.14 --> 4135.00] God stitch -[4135.00 --> 4135.72] together in -[4135.72 --> 4136.76] beautiful and -[4136.76 --> 4137.58] compelling ways. -[4138.88 --> 4139.70] That way you're -[4139.70 --> 4141.20] also testing your -[4141.20 --> 4142.28] own understanding -[4142.28 --> 4143.86] of God at work -[4143.86 --> 4144.44] in the world -[4144.44 --> 4145.24] through God's -[4145.24 --> 4146.20] own revelation -[4146.20 --> 4147.08] of his work -[4147.08 --> 4147.66] in the world. -[4148.96 --> 4149.82] Testing that -[4149.82 --> 4150.54] truth against -[4150.54 --> 4151.70] Scripture actually -[4151.70 --> 4152.44] seeks to -[4152.44 --> 4153.06] heighten -[4153.06 --> 4154.58] your confidence -[4154.58 --> 4155.48] in the truth -[4155.48 --> 4156.26] of how God -[4156.26 --> 4156.94] uses your -[4156.94 --> 4157.64] story to -[4157.64 --> 4158.22] proclaim the -[4158.22 --> 4158.62] gospel. -[4160.66 --> 4161.56] God will -[4161.56 --> 4162.44] not contradict -[4162.44 --> 4163.10] himself. -[4164.00 --> 4164.62] He can't. -[4165.24 --> 4165.62] It goes -[4165.62 --> 4166.12] against his -[4166.12 --> 4166.46] nature. -[4167.64 --> 4168.12] And so when -[4168.12 --> 4168.82] your telling -[4168.82 --> 4169.68] of God's -[4169.68 --> 4170.42] work in the -[4170.42 --> 4171.84] world aligns -[4171.84 --> 4172.50] with what God -[4172.50 --> 4173.00] has said -[4173.00 --> 4174.30] about himself, -[4174.52 --> 4175.22] you can be -[4175.22 --> 4175.98] even more -[4175.98 --> 4177.06] sure that -[4177.06 --> 4177.78] God is -[4177.78 --> 4178.42] with you. -[4179.98 --> 4181.00] Make Jesus -[4181.00 --> 4181.74] the hero of -[4181.74 --> 4182.34] your stories -[4182.34 --> 4183.18] and then tell -[4183.18 --> 4183.86] your story -[4183.86 --> 4184.60] from within -[4184.60 --> 4185.18] the Bible -[4185.18 --> 4185.70] story. -[4187.02 --> 4187.26] And then -[4187.26 --> 4187.64] lastly, -[4187.80 --> 4188.22] and here's a -[4188.22 --> 4188.88] really important -[4188.88 --> 4189.48] one for some -[4189.48 --> 4189.88] of you this -[4189.88 --> 4190.16] morning, -[4191.42 --> 4191.98] you don't -[4191.98 --> 4192.44] need to -[4192.44 --> 4193.04] fake a good -[4193.04 --> 4193.36] ending. -[4195.78 --> 4196.78] A story in -[4196.78 --> 4198.52] progress is -[4198.52 --> 4199.10] the story we -[4199.10 --> 4199.54] need to hear. -[4201.30 --> 4202.14] A work of -[4202.14 --> 4202.64] God in -[4202.64 --> 4203.42] progress is a -[4203.42 --> 4204.22] great story. -[4205.38 --> 4205.88] And part of -[4205.88 --> 4206.34] what that means -[4206.34 --> 4206.98] is that your -[4206.98 --> 4207.76] story, even -[4207.76 --> 4208.50] your work in -[4208.50 --> 4209.48] progress story, -[4209.48 --> 4210.18] even your -[4210.18 --> 4211.06] unresolved, -[4211.48 --> 4212.02] still in the -[4212.02 --> 4212.82] midst of turmoil -[4212.82 --> 4214.34] situation, is -[4214.34 --> 4216.32] a story that -[4216.32 --> 4218.06] we need to -[4218.06 --> 4218.32] hear. -[4220.02 --> 4221.02] In fact, this -[4221.02 --> 4221.68] leaves us without -[4221.68 --> 4222.64] any excuse, -[4222.88 --> 4223.66] really, for not -[4223.66 --> 4224.52] telling your story -[4224.52 --> 4225.70] of God at work -[4225.70 --> 4226.62] and of God -[4226.62 --> 4227.92] working or of -[4227.92 --> 4228.68] where you need -[4228.68 --> 4229.70] God to be at -[4229.70 --> 4230.00] work. -[4231.00 --> 4231.30] Right? -[4231.34 --> 4231.88] Your story -[4231.88 --> 4232.48] doesn't have to -[4232.48 --> 4233.70] be over or -[4233.70 --> 4234.36] your situation -[4234.36 --> 4234.94] doesn't have to -[4234.94 --> 4236.16] be fixed for -[4236.16 --> 4236.94] it to be used -[4236.94 --> 4237.52] by God. -[4237.52 --> 4238.68] And I think -[4238.68 --> 4239.52] sometimes we -[4239.52 --> 4240.18] get the idea -[4240.18 --> 4240.94] that until we -[4240.94 --> 4241.40] have it all -[4241.40 --> 4242.10] figured out, -[4242.34 --> 4242.98] until we've -[4242.98 --> 4243.52] put ourselves -[4243.52 --> 4244.30] back together, -[4244.50 --> 4245.30] dusted ourselves -[4245.30 --> 4246.28] off, and until -[4246.28 --> 4247.02] we look prim -[4247.02 --> 4247.94] and proper again, -[4248.18 --> 4249.18] then we can't -[4249.18 --> 4250.26] share this story. -[4251.44 --> 4252.66] But that idea, -[4252.90 --> 4253.72] entirely common -[4253.72 --> 4254.40] as it is, -[4254.60 --> 4255.72] is completely -[4255.72 --> 4257.10] contradictory to -[4257.10 --> 4257.86] the very reason -[4257.86 --> 4258.78] why God uses -[4258.78 --> 4259.62] these stories. -[4260.66 --> 4260.76] Right? -[4260.80 --> 4261.30] Instead of -[4261.30 --> 4262.14] faking a good -[4262.14 --> 4263.38] ending, fix -[4263.38 --> 4264.06] your eyes on -[4264.06 --> 4264.66] the grand -[4264.66 --> 4265.10] ending. -[4265.94 --> 4266.04] Right? -[4266.08 --> 4266.90] Allow your -[4266.90 --> 4268.06] story, incomplete -[4268.06 --> 4268.82] as it is, -[4268.88 --> 4269.48] to draw your -[4269.48 --> 4270.16] eyes of faith -[4270.16 --> 4270.64] and your hearts -[4270.64 --> 4271.16] of love for -[4271.16 --> 4271.94] God towards -[4271.94 --> 4272.72] the end of -[4272.72 --> 4273.52] His story, -[4273.88 --> 4274.36] towards the -[4274.36 --> 4274.98] return of -[4274.98 --> 4275.64] Jesus Christ, -[4275.76 --> 4276.18] towards the -[4276.18 --> 4277.46] consummation of -[4277.46 --> 4278.40] all that is, -[4278.46 --> 4279.14] of all of -[4279.14 --> 4279.56] history. -[4280.00 --> 4280.60] Let the end -[4280.60 --> 4281.68] of His story, -[4282.00 --> 4282.78] His work in -[4282.78 --> 4283.20] the world, -[4283.34 --> 4284.22] be that which -[4284.22 --> 4284.94] draws you -[4284.94 --> 4285.76] towards the -[4285.76 --> 4286.34] same end. -[4287.48 --> 4287.68] Right? -[4287.74 --> 4288.42] Don't fake a -[4288.42 --> 4288.96] good ending, -[4289.14 --> 4289.84] but fix your -[4289.84 --> 4290.44] eyes on the -[4290.44 --> 4291.20] great ending. -[4292.36 --> 4293.28] Make Jesus -[4293.28 --> 4293.92] the hero. -[4294.92 --> 4295.36] Tell your -[4295.36 --> 4296.06] story from -[4296.06 --> 4296.92] within the -[4296.92 --> 4297.84] Bible's story -[4297.84 --> 4298.80] and fix your -[4298.80 --> 4299.88] eyes on God's -[4299.88 --> 4301.26] great ending. -[4303.10 --> 4303.90] That's how you -[4303.90 --> 4304.44] can tell your -[4304.44 --> 4305.70] story in such -[4305.70 --> 4306.56] a way that the -[4306.56 --> 4307.76] gospel is -[4307.76 --> 4308.34] proclaimed. -[4309.26 --> 4309.98] That's how you -[4309.98 --> 4310.48] can tell your -[4310.48 --> 4311.26] story in such -[4311.26 --> 4312.36] a way that it -[4312.36 --> 4313.64] is easy for us -[4313.64 --> 4314.98] to see God -[4314.98 --> 4315.62] at work and -[4315.62 --> 4316.38] how He is -[4316.38 --> 4316.98] going to use -[4316.98 --> 4317.96] it to preserve -[4317.96 --> 4318.88] others. -[4320.60 --> 4321.26] And then -[4321.26 --> 4321.64] finally, -[4321.94 --> 4322.48] lastly, and -[4322.48 --> 4323.48] we'll land here -[4323.48 --> 4324.12] this morning, -[4324.90 --> 4326.72] all of this -[4326.72 --> 4328.66] and all of -[4328.66 --> 4330.52] this is -[4330.52 --> 4331.06] what we pray -[4331.06 --> 4331.38] for. -[4332.38 --> 4332.92] Look at -[4332.92 --> 4333.34] verse 10. -[4336.06 --> 4336.80] Night and -[4336.80 --> 4337.66] day we pray -[4337.66 --> 4338.86] most earnestly -[4338.86 --> 4339.82] that we may -[4339.82 --> 4340.68] see you again -[4340.68 --> 4341.34] and supply -[4341.34 --> 4342.32] what is lacking -[4342.32 --> 4343.68] in your faith. -[4343.80 --> 4344.12] And then -[4344.12 --> 4344.52] Paul, -[4346.24 --> 4347.16] majestically, -[4348.48 --> 4349.04] musically -[4349.04 --> 4349.74] even, -[4350.16 --> 4350.84] writes out -[4350.84 --> 4351.46] his prayer. -[4352.82 --> 4353.56] Now may -[4353.56 --> 4354.16] our God -[4354.16 --> 4354.72] and Father -[4354.72 --> 4355.50] Himself and -[4355.50 --> 4355.98] our Lord -[4355.98 --> 4356.84] Jesus clear -[4356.84 --> 4357.68] the way for -[4357.68 --> 4358.50] us to come -[4358.50 --> 4358.98] to you. -[4359.66 --> 4360.10] And may -[4360.10 --> 4360.54] the Lord -[4360.54 --> 4361.06] make your -[4361.06 --> 4362.10] love increase -[4362.10 --> 4363.00] and overflow -[4363.00 --> 4363.72] for each -[4363.72 --> 4364.20] other and -[4364.20 --> 4364.92] for everyone -[4364.92 --> 4365.56] else just -[4365.56 --> 4366.14] as ours -[4366.14 --> 4367.06] does for -[4367.06 --> 4367.34] you. -[4367.86 --> 4368.36] And may -[4368.36 --> 4369.02] He strengthen -[4369.02 --> 4369.62] your hearts -[4369.62 --> 4370.38] so that you -[4370.38 --> 4370.68] will be -[4370.68 --> 4371.76] blameless and -[4371.76 --> 4372.98] holy in the -[4372.98 --> 4373.60] presence of -[4373.60 --> 4374.24] our God -[4374.24 --> 4374.80] and Father -[4374.80 --> 4375.36] when our -[4375.36 --> 4375.94] Lord Jesus -[4375.94 --> 4377.02] comes with -[4377.02 --> 4378.16] all His -[4378.16 --> 4379.80] holy ones. -[4380.84 --> 4382.66] Now notice -[4382.66 --> 4384.34] He doesn't -[4384.34 --> 4386.12] pray that -[4386.12 --> 4386.56] He might -[4386.56 --> 4387.10] find a -[4387.10 --> 4388.16] solution for -[4388.16 --> 4389.14] His situation. -[4390.50 --> 4391.40] He prays -[4391.40 --> 4391.74] that God -[4391.74 --> 4392.28] might provide -[4392.28 --> 4392.50] one. -[4394.24 --> 4394.70] And notice -[4394.70 --> 4395.16] He doesn't -[4395.16 --> 4396.10] pray for -[4396.10 --> 4396.78] their suffering -[4396.78 --> 4397.48] to end. -[4397.88 --> 4398.24] Instead, -[4398.54 --> 4399.04] He prays -[4399.04 --> 4399.28] that they -[4399.28 --> 4399.80] will endure. -[4401.50 --> 4402.06] Right? -[4402.08 --> 4402.48] He doesn't -[4402.48 --> 4403.06] pray that -[4403.06 --> 4403.58] their comfort -[4403.58 --> 4404.42] would increase. -[4404.68 --> 4405.28] He prays -[4405.28 --> 4405.56] that their -[4405.56 --> 4406.42] love for -[4406.42 --> 4406.86] each other -[4406.86 --> 4407.56] would increase. -[4408.58 --> 4409.20] He doesn't -[4409.20 --> 4409.70] pray that -[4409.70 --> 4410.28] their lives -[4410.28 --> 4410.66] would be -[4410.66 --> 4411.24] easy. -[4411.68 --> 4411.98] Instead, -[4412.18 --> 4412.72] He prays -[4412.72 --> 4412.94] that they -[4412.94 --> 4413.24] would be -[4413.24 --> 4414.02] blameless -[4414.02 --> 4415.30] and holy. -[4417.40 --> 4418.44] Stories of -[4418.44 --> 4418.88] faith -[4418.88 --> 4419.86] fueling -[4419.86 --> 4420.52] and shaping -[4420.52 --> 4421.46] our prayers -[4421.46 --> 4422.10] of faith -[4422.10 --> 4423.82] for the -[4423.82 --> 4424.16] saints -[4424.16 --> 4425.08] to stand -[4425.08 --> 4425.98] firm. -[4427.00 --> 4427.90] The stories -[4427.90 --> 4428.44] that we -[4428.44 --> 4428.98] tell of -[4428.98 --> 4429.40] God at -[4429.40 --> 4430.02] work in -[4430.02 --> 4430.44] and through -[4430.44 --> 4431.14] our trials -[4431.14 --> 4432.62] even into -[4432.62 --> 4433.58] the face -[4433.58 --> 4434.18] of death -[4434.18 --> 4435.30] are the -[4435.30 --> 4436.26] stories that -[4436.26 --> 4437.04] fuel our -[4437.04 --> 4437.50] prayers -[4437.50 --> 4438.66] and shape -[4438.66 --> 4438.68] and shape -[4438.68 --> 4439.30] what we -[4439.30 --> 4439.78] ought to -[4439.78 --> 4440.38] be praying -[4440.38 --> 4440.82] for. -[4441.62 --> 4442.22] So that -[4442.22 --> 4443.10] God might -[4443.10 --> 4444.34] preserve us -[4444.34 --> 4445.12] to the end -[4445.12 --> 4446.02] and we -[4446.02 --> 4446.50] can be -[4446.50 --> 4447.30] confident -[4447.30 --> 4449.96] in our -[4449.96 --> 4451.00] preservation -[4451.00 --> 4452.12] and our -[4452.12 --> 4452.78] perseverance -[4452.78 --> 4453.84] that comes -[4453.84 --> 4454.28] from it. -[4455.14 --> 4455.90] Stories like -[4455.90 --> 4456.64] this make -[4456.64 --> 4457.28] the story -[4457.28 --> 4457.70] of the -[4457.70 --> 4458.12] gospel -[4458.12 --> 4459.36] more real. -[4460.20 --> 4461.14] Your story -[4461.14 --> 4461.86] of faith -[4461.86 --> 4462.40] even in -[4462.40 --> 4462.72] trial, -[4462.84 --> 4463.54] maybe especially -[4463.54 --> 4464.14] in trial, -[4464.56 --> 4465.06] makes the -[4465.06 --> 4465.84] story of the -[4465.84 --> 4466.94] gospel more -[4466.94 --> 4467.40] real. -[4468.38 --> 4469.20] And that -[4469.20 --> 4470.06] is exactly -[4470.06 --> 4470.62] what happens -[4470.62 --> 4470.96] at this -[4470.96 --> 4471.26] table. -[4472.50 --> 4473.56] The story -[4473.56 --> 4474.14] of faith -[4474.14 --> 4475.42] made real. -[4475.80 --> 4476.22] The story -[4476.22 --> 4476.86] of the gospel -[4476.86 --> 4477.96] comes to us -[4477.96 --> 4478.96] in a form -[4478.96 --> 4479.46] that we can -[4479.46 --> 4480.44] taste and -[4480.44 --> 4480.84] that we can -[4480.84 --> 4481.80] see and -[4481.80 --> 4482.36] the real -[4482.36 --> 4483.18] presence of -[4483.18 --> 4484.24] Jesus is -[4484.24 --> 4485.02] here. -[4486.08 --> 4486.58] So as we -[4486.58 --> 4487.06] come to -[4487.06 --> 4487.66] this table, -[4488.38 --> 4489.12] I invite -[4489.12 --> 4490.06] you to -[4490.06 --> 4491.38] come hungry -[4491.38 --> 4493.02] for Jesus. -[4494.12 --> 4494.72] I invite -[4494.72 --> 4494.96] you to -[4494.96 --> 4495.64] come with -[4495.64 --> 4496.76] your story -[4496.76 --> 4497.78] ready to -[4497.78 --> 4498.46] be shaped -[4498.46 --> 4499.24] by God -[4499.24 --> 4499.86] in this -[4499.86 --> 4500.42] moment. -[4501.10 --> 4501.84] That from -[4501.84 --> 4502.84] him you -[4502.84 --> 4503.78] might receive -[4503.78 --> 4505.90] real grace -[4505.90 --> 4507.00] and mercy. -[4507.14 --> 4507.60] That from -[4507.60 --> 4508.14] him you -[4508.14 --> 4509.24] might receive -[4509.24 --> 4510.20] the power -[4510.20 --> 4510.66] of his -[4510.66 --> 4511.78] spirit to -[4511.78 --> 4512.78] persevere -[4512.78 --> 4514.06] in whatever -[4514.06 --> 4515.36] trial the -[4515.36 --> 4516.20] Lord is -[4516.20 --> 4517.10] calling you -[4517.10 --> 4517.68] to. -[4517.80 --> 4518.76] Because he -[4518.76 --> 4520.66] is faithful -[4520.66 --> 4522.58] and he -[4522.58 --> 4522.94] will do -[4522.94 --> 4523.16] it. -[4524.16 --> 4524.80] Let me -[4524.80 --> 4525.16] pray with -[4525.16 --> 4525.66] you as -[4525.66 --> 4525.78] we -[4525.78 --> 4526.00] prepare -[4526.00 --> 4526.20] our -[4526.20 --> 4526.40] hearts -[4526.40 --> 4526.70] to come -[4526.70 --> 4526.98] to this -[4526.98 --> 4527.24] table. -[4531.24 --> 4531.92] Holy, -[4533.42 --> 4534.00] majestic, -[4535.32 --> 4535.60] mighty, -[4536.00 --> 4536.76] and sovereign -[4536.76 --> 4537.58] God, -[4538.28 --> 4541.20] each one -[4541.20 --> 4541.60] of us -[4541.60 --> 4542.88] here you -[4542.88 --> 4543.64] have carried -[4543.64 --> 4544.32] to this -[4544.32 --> 4546.10] place for -[4546.10 --> 4546.74] a purpose -[4546.74 --> 4548.08] to this -[4548.08 --> 4549.12] moment that -[4549.12 --> 4549.64] we might -[4549.64 --> 4550.56] receive from -[4550.56 --> 4551.12] you the -[4551.12 --> 4551.76] grace of -[4551.76 --> 4552.24] your word. -[4552.24 --> 4552.28] God, -[4552.68 --> 4554.28] we pray -[4554.28 --> 4554.74] now that -[4554.74 --> 4554.98] you would -[4554.98 --> 4555.46] take the -[4555.46 --> 4556.00] grace of -[4556.00 --> 4556.48] your word -[4556.48 --> 4556.78] and that -[4556.78 --> 4557.04] you would -[4557.04 --> 4558.10] transform it -[4558.10 --> 4558.72] by the -[4558.72 --> 4559.28] bread and -[4559.28 --> 4559.70] the juice -[4559.70 --> 4560.06] that we -[4560.06 --> 4560.60] are about -[4560.60 --> 4560.94] to eat, -[4561.02 --> 4561.64] that in -[4561.64 --> 4561.92] it we -[4561.92 --> 4562.86] might experience -[4562.86 --> 4563.56] the real -[4563.56 --> 4564.46] presence of -[4564.46 --> 4565.12] our Lord -[4565.12 --> 4566.24] Jesus Christ. -[4566.36 --> 4567.18] Meet us -[4567.18 --> 4567.94] here, we -[4567.94 --> 4568.94] pray, by -[4568.94 --> 4569.92] grace through -[4569.92 --> 4570.74] faith. -[4572.40 --> 4573.20] May we -[4573.20 --> 4574.18] receive from -[4574.18 --> 4576.02] you sustaining -[4576.02 --> 4576.92] power. -[4576.92 --> 4576.98] power. -[4577.86 --> 4578.66] May we -[4578.66 --> 4579.42] receive from -[4579.42 --> 4581.58] you preserving -[4581.58 --> 4584.40] power that -[4584.40 --> 4584.82] we might -[4584.82 --> 4586.64] persevere into -[4586.64 --> 4587.26] whatever dark -[4587.26 --> 4587.72] night of the -[4587.72 --> 4588.66] soul we face, -[4589.18 --> 4589.68] into whatever -[4589.68 --> 4590.98] moment of -[4590.98 --> 4591.68] death we are -[4591.68 --> 4592.24] looking down -[4592.24 --> 4592.88] upon, into -[4592.88 --> 4593.70] whatever abyss -[4593.70 --> 4594.56] we stare, to -[4594.56 --> 4595.28] whatever trial -[4595.28 --> 4596.22] and persecution -[4596.22 --> 4597.52] you call us to -[4597.52 --> 4598.84] go in this -[4598.84 --> 4599.48] moment. -[4601.20 --> 4602.20] Preserve us -[4602.20 --> 4605.56] that we -[4605.56 --> 4606.38] might persevere -[4606.38 --> 4607.74] to the end. -[4609.28 --> 4610.06] May this -[4610.06 --> 4610.94] feast be for -[4610.94 --> 4611.88] us a glimpse -[4611.88 --> 4612.92] of your great -[4612.92 --> 4614.22] feast to come, -[4614.32 --> 4614.94] that heavenly -[4614.94 --> 4616.02] banquet at the -[4616.02 --> 4616.88] end of time -[4616.88 --> 4618.32] that draws us -[4618.32 --> 4619.36] forward in -[4619.36 --> 4620.72] obedience to -[4620.72 --> 4621.28] your word, -[4621.94 --> 4623.30] to your will, -[4624.36 --> 4624.94] that we might -[4624.94 --> 4625.58] be disciples -[4625.58 --> 4626.54] who follow in -[4626.54 --> 4627.62] the way of -[4627.62 --> 4627.94] Jesus, -[4628.84 --> 4630.92] that we might -[4630.92 --> 4631.40] bear in our -[4631.40 --> 4632.18] bodies the -[4632.18 --> 4632.92] death of -[4632.92 --> 4634.64] Jesus, that -[4634.64 --> 4635.20] we might also -[4635.20 --> 4635.68] bear in our -[4635.68 --> 4636.36] bodies his -[4636.36 --> 4637.22] resurrecting -[4637.22 --> 4637.92] power. -[4639.46 --> 4640.42] We pray this -[4640.42 --> 4641.00] Jesus in your -[4641.00 --> 4641.68] holy name. -[4642.44 --> 4642.72] Amen. -[4644.34 --> 4644.74] Amen. -[4650.08 --> 4651.12] As we come -[4651.12 --> 4652.30] to this table -[4652.30 --> 4653.76] together, we -[4653.76 --> 4654.68] have opportunity -[4654.68 --> 4656.94] to stand in -[4656.94 --> 4658.14] the 2,000 -[4658.14 --> 4659.10] year history -[4659.10 --> 4659.74] of the -[4659.74 --> 4660.70] Christian church -[4660.70 --> 4662.26] to live -[4662.26 --> 4663.20] out this -[4663.20 --> 4664.06] feast of -[4664.06 --> 4664.86] anticipation. -[4665.82 --> 4666.30] And so part -[4666.30 --> 4666.98] of the words -[4666.98 --> 4667.46] that we are -[4667.46 --> 4668.04] invited to -[4668.04 --> 4668.68] say here -[4668.68 --> 4669.94] connect us -[4669.94 --> 4670.66] back all -[4670.66 --> 4671.66] the way to -[4671.66 --> 4671.96] the very -[4671.96 --> 4673.08] institution of -[4673.08 --> 4673.88] this meal in -[4673.88 --> 4674.54] our Lord Jesus -[4674.54 --> 4675.24] Christ, to the -[4675.24 --> 4676.08] very practice of -[4676.08 --> 4677.00] it in the early -[4677.00 --> 4677.74] church, and to -[4677.74 --> 4678.48] the very words -[4678.48 --> 4679.42] spoken by the -[4679.42 --> 4680.10] church throughout -[4680.10 --> 4681.22] the ages. -[4681.72 --> 4682.54] And so together -[4682.54 --> 4683.64] with one voice, -[4684.12 --> 4684.76] lift up your -[4684.76 --> 4685.16] hearts. -[4685.16 --> 4688.60] let us give -[4688.60 --> 4689.30] thanks to the -[4689.30 --> 4689.76] Lord our -[4689.76 --> 4690.10] God. -[4692.96 --> 4693.62] Let's pray -[4693.62 --> 4694.02] together. -[4695.70 --> 4696.84] With joy we -[4696.84 --> 4697.62] praise you, -[4697.80 --> 4698.52] gracious God, -[4698.58 --> 4699.12] for you have -[4699.12 --> 4699.92] created heaven -[4699.92 --> 4700.56] and earth. -[4701.10 --> 4701.52] You have made -[4701.52 --> 4702.02] us in your -[4702.02 --> 4702.76] image and kept -[4702.76 --> 4703.50] covenant with -[4703.50 --> 4704.48] us even when -[4704.48 --> 4705.26] we fell into -[4705.26 --> 4705.58] sin. -[4706.44 --> 4707.06] We give you -[4707.06 --> 4707.60] thanks for -[4707.60 --> 4708.36] Jesus Christ, -[4708.48 --> 4708.96] who by his -[4708.96 --> 4709.72] life, death, -[4709.80 --> 4710.40] and resurrection -[4710.40 --> 4711.84] opened to us -[4711.84 --> 4712.70] the way of -[4712.70 --> 4713.92] life everlasting. -[4713.92 --> 4715.26] Amen. -[4718.02 --> 4718.98] Now our Lord -[4718.98 --> 4720.62] Jesus, before -[4720.62 --> 4722.24] he suffered, gave -[4722.24 --> 4723.52] us this memorial -[4723.52 --> 4724.80] of his sacrifice -[4724.80 --> 4725.70] until he comes -[4725.70 --> 4726.04] again. -[4727.02 --> 4727.86] The Lord Jesus, -[4728.16 --> 4728.76] on the night -[4728.76 --> 4730.12] that he was -[4730.12 --> 4731.10] betrayed, he -[4731.10 --> 4732.48] took bread, and -[4732.48 --> 4732.82] when he had -[4732.82 --> 4733.94] given thanks, he -[4733.94 --> 4735.58] broke it, and -[4735.58 --> 4736.90] he said, this -[4736.90 --> 4738.40] is my body, -[4738.92 --> 4739.74] which is for -[4739.74 --> 4740.00] you. -[4740.64 --> 4741.82] Do this in -[4741.82 --> 4743.28] remembrance of -[4743.28 --> 4743.54] me. -[4743.92 --> 4745.90] And in the -[4745.90 --> 4747.26] same way, after -[4747.26 --> 4747.88] supper, he -[4747.88 --> 4748.64] took the cup -[4748.64 --> 4749.72] and said, this -[4749.72 --> 4750.74] cup is the -[4750.74 --> 4751.38] new covenant -[4751.38 --> 4752.82] in my blood. -[4753.74 --> 4754.52] Do this -[4754.52 --> 4755.48] whenever you -[4755.48 --> 4756.54] drink it in -[4756.54 --> 4757.96] remembrance of -[4757.96 --> 4758.24] me. -[4758.80 --> 4759.70] For whenever you -[4759.70 --> 4760.66] eat this bread -[4760.66 --> 4761.84] and drink this -[4761.84 --> 4762.74] cup, you -[4762.74 --> 4763.86] proclaim the -[4763.86 --> 4764.70] Lord's death -[4764.70 --> 4766.12] until he -[4766.12 --> 4767.32] comes again. -[4768.02 --> 4769.44] This is the -[4769.44 --> 4770.58] mystery of -[4770.58 --> 4771.28] our faith. -[4771.28 --> 4773.96] your death, O -[4773.96 --> 4774.74] Christ, we -[4774.74 --> 4775.24] proclaim. -[4776.06 --> 4777.00] Your resurrection -[4777.00 --> 4778.24] we affirm with -[4778.24 --> 4778.60] joy. -[4779.36 --> 4780.32] Your coming we -[4780.32 --> 4781.32] await with hope. -[4782.10 --> 4783.14] Glory be to -[4783.14 --> 4784.28] you, Lord Jesus. -[4785.74 --> 4787.34] Church family, the -[4787.34 --> 4788.20] Lord has prepared -[4788.20 --> 4789.82] his table for all -[4789.82 --> 4790.84] who love him and -[4790.84 --> 4791.82] for all who trust in -[4791.82 --> 4793.36] him alone for their -[4793.36 --> 4793.84] salvation. -[4794.02 --> 4795.04] And so, come to -[4795.04 --> 4796.40] this table, you who -[4796.40 --> 4797.98] have much faith and -[4797.98 --> 4798.86] you who would like to -[4798.86 --> 4799.38] have more. -[4799.38 --> 4800.86] Come to this table, -[4801.00 --> 4801.84] you who have been -[4801.84 --> 4803.36] here often and -[4803.36 --> 4804.32] you who have not -[4804.32 --> 4805.88] been for a long -[4805.88 --> 4806.46] time. -[4807.30 --> 4808.32] Come to this table, -[4808.46 --> 4809.38] you who have tried -[4809.38 --> 4810.80] to follow Jesus and -[4810.80 --> 4811.88] you who have failed. -[4812.28 --> 4813.34] Come to this table -[4813.34 --> 4814.86] because Jesus Christ -[4814.86 --> 4816.36] is raised. -[4817.20 --> 4818.00] We invite you to -[4818.00 --> 4818.94] come if you are here -[4818.94 --> 4819.98] with us or if you -[4819.98 --> 4820.80] are joining us -[4820.80 --> 4821.48] online. -[4821.84 --> 4822.82] Come because it is -[4822.82 --> 4823.88] Christ who meets -[4823.88 --> 4825.52] his gathered body -[4825.52 --> 4826.40] here. -[4827.24 --> 4828.48] The gifts of God -[4828.48 --> 4829.46] for the people -[4829.46 --> 4830.42] of God. -[4831.98 --> 4832.86] As we come to -[4832.86 --> 4833.82] this table here -[4833.82 --> 4835.20] at Emmanuel, we -[4835.20 --> 4836.24] have a particular -[4836.24 --> 4836.98] way that we do -[4836.98 --> 4837.62] that and so there -[4837.62 --> 4838.52] will be some elders -[4838.52 --> 4839.48] up here who will -[4839.48 --> 4840.82] help serve as you -[4840.82 --> 4841.74] are invited to the -[4841.74 --> 4842.00] front. -[4842.16 --> 4842.80] We will gather in -[4842.80 --> 4843.80] a circle together -[4843.80 --> 4844.96] and we will pass -[4844.96 --> 4845.94] the elements around. -[4846.12 --> 4847.06] As you pass the -[4847.06 --> 4848.06] bread, we encourage -[4848.06 --> 4848.86] you to say the -[4848.86 --> 4849.72] body of Christ -[4849.72 --> 4850.52] given for you. -[4851.18 --> 4852.14] On the tray of -[4852.14 --> 4852.76] bread in the -[4852.76 --> 4854.42] center is a little -[4854.42 --> 4855.64] tin of gluten-free -[4855.64 --> 4855.98] bread. -[4856.06 --> 4856.70] We encourage you if -[4856.70 --> 4857.26] you need that to -[4857.26 --> 4857.64] take that. -[4857.64 --> 4858.68] We have some -[4858.68 --> 4859.38] gluten-free bread -[4859.38 --> 4859.92] that is also -[4859.92 --> 4861.04] completely separated -[4861.04 --> 4861.60] up here. -[4861.70 --> 4862.36] If you need that, -[4862.42 --> 4863.12] please just indicate -[4863.12 --> 4863.74] and we will give -[4863.74 --> 4864.08] you there. -[4864.76 --> 4865.68] As you pass the -[4865.68 --> 4866.62] juice, we invite -[4866.62 --> 4868.08] you to say the -[4868.08 --> 4868.96] blood of Christ -[4868.96 --> 4870.06] shed for you. -[4871.12 --> 4872.24] In this way, we -[4872.24 --> 4873.46] are met by Jesus -[4873.46 --> 4874.88] in his body -[4874.88 --> 4875.78] together. -[4877.22 --> 4878.98] Before we invite -[4878.98 --> 4879.74] everyone to come -[4879.74 --> 4880.22] up, I am going to -[4880.22 --> 4880.98] invite those who -[4880.98 --> 4881.94] will help facilitate -[4881.94 --> 4882.88] and help serve. -[4883.02 --> 4883.90] The worship team -[4883.90 --> 4884.48] and the serving -[4884.48 --> 4886.02] elders, people at -[4886.02 --> 4886.46] the back of the -[4886.46 --> 4887.72] house who can -[4887.72 --> 4888.58] come up and -[4888.58 --> 4889.62] they will receive -[4889.62 --> 4890.76] first so that they -[4890.76 --> 4891.44] can lead us in -[4891.44 --> 4892.60] singing as the -[4892.60 --> 4894.08] rest of you come -[4894.08 --> 4894.42] forward. -[4894.72 --> 4895.46] If you are looking -[4895.46 --> 4896.24] for someone to pray -[4896.24 --> 4897.66] with you before -[4897.66 --> 4898.28] coming to the -[4898.28 --> 4899.12] front or in space -[4899.12 --> 4899.70] of coming to the -[4899.70 --> 4900.24] front, there will be -[4900.24 --> 4901.46] people in the foyer -[4901.46 --> 4902.64] at the back as well. -[4903.30 --> 4904.20] Invite the leaders to -[4904.20 --> 4904.82] come up to the front -[4904.82 --> 4905.26] of the front. -[4926.44 --> 4927.30] Close the gap. -[4931.92 --> 4932.70] Body of Christ -[4932.70 --> 4933.32] given for you. -[4936.08 --> 4936.84] Body of Christ -[4936.84 --> 4937.40] given for you. -[4937.40 --> 4938.58] Body of Christ -[4938.58 --> 4939.52] given for you. -[4939.52 --> 4968.58] Thank you. -[4968.58 --> 4975.72] Eat and remember. -[4986.60 --> 4987.38] Blood of Christ -[4987.38 --> 4987.98] shed for you. -[4991.22 --> 4992.02] Blood of Christ -[4992.02 --> 4992.58] shed for you. -[4992.58 --> 4992.66] Amen. -[4992.66 --> 4992.70] Amen. -[4992.70 --> 4993.10] Amen. -[4993.10 --> 4993.70] Amen. -[4993.70 --> 4994.70] Amen. -[4998.58 --> 4999.58] Move. -[4999.58 --> 5000.58] God." -[5028.58 --> 5033.22] Thank you. -[5037.26 --> 5038.74] Drink and believe. -[5058.58 --> 5088.56] Thank you. -[5088.58 --> 5118.56] Thank you. -[5118.58 --> 5120.58] Thank you. -[5120.58 --> 5122.58] Thank you. -[5122.58 --> 5124.58] Thank you. -[5124.58 --> 5126.58] Thank you. -[5126.58 --> 5128.58] Thank you. -[5128.58 --> 5130.58] Thank you. -[5130.58 --> 5132.58] Thank you. -[5132.58 --> 5134.58] Thank you. -[5134.58 --> 5136.58] Thank you. -[5136.58 --> 5138.58] Thank you. -[5138.58 --> 5140.58] Thank you. -[5140.58 --> 5142.58] Thank you. -[5142.58 --> 5144.58] Thank you. -[5144.58 --> 5146.58] Thank you. -[5146.58 --> 5148.58] Thank you. -[5148.58 --> 5150.58] Thank you. -[5150.58 --> 5152.58] Thank you. -[5152.58 --> 5154.58] Thank you. -[5154.58 --> 5156.58] Thank you. -[5156.58 --> 5158.58] Thank you. -[5158.58 --> 5160.58] Thank you. -[5160.58 --> 5162.58] Thank you. -[5162.58 --> 5164.58] Thank you. -[5164.58 --> 5166.58] Thank you. -[5166.58 --> 5168.58] Thank you. -[5168.58 --> 5170.58] Thank you. -[5170.58 --> 5172.58] Thank you. -[5172.58 --> 5174.58] Thank you. -[5174.58 --> 5176.58] Thank you. -[5176.58 --> 5178.58] Thank you. -[5178.58 --> 5180.58] Thank you. -[5180.58 --> 5182.58] Thank you. -[5182.58 --> 5184.58] Thank you. -[5184.58 --> 5190.98] With our hearts restored, He has done great things. -[5190.98 --> 5201.98] We will say together, we will feast and weep no more. -[5201.98 --> 5224.68] In the dark of night before the dawn, my soul be not afraid for the promised morning of how long. -[5224.68 --> 5239.38] O God, O Jacob, be my strength. We will feast in the house of Zion. -[5239.38 --> 5248.72] We will sing with our hearts restored, He has done great things. -[5248.72 --> 5259.72] We will say together, we will feast and weep no more. -[5259.72 --> 5268.72] Every vow we've broken and betrayed. -[5268.72 --> 5282.72] You are the faithful one, and from the garden to the grave. -[5282.72 --> 5289.72] Find us together, bring shalom. -[5289.72 --> 5296.72] We will feast in the house of Zion. -[5296.72 --> 5305.72] He will sing with our hearts restored, He has done great things. -[5305.72 --> 5315.72] We will say together, we will feast and weep no more. -[5315.72 --> 5322.72] We will feast in the house of Zion. -[5322.72 --> 5331.72] We will sing with our hearts restored, He has done great things. -[5331.72 --> 5342.72] We will say together, we will feast and weep no more. -[5342.72 --> 5349.72] O God, O Jacob. -[5349.72 --> 5349.86] From our hearts in the generationspark of Zion Oake 물어� -[5352.94 --> 5355.00] He will be waiting with us. -[5355.00 --> 5357.72] With our hearts повbeeld on our hearts Rivera -[5357.72 --> 5358.62] ấy -[5358.72 --> 5365.32] With God hattended focle Hierleb -[5365.32 --> 5367.32] Amen. -[5395.32 --> 5397.32] Amen. -[5425.32 --> 5427.32] Amen. -[5455.32 --> 5457.32] Amen. -[5485.32 --> 5487.32] Amen. -[5515.32 --> 5517.32] Amen. -[5545.32 --> 5547.32] Amen. -[5575.32 --> 5577.32] Amen. -[5605.32 --> 5607.32] Amen. -[5635.32 --> 5637.32] Amen. -[5665.32 --> 5667.32] Amen. -[5695.32 --> 5697.32] Amen. -[5725.32 --> 5727.32] Amen. -[5755.32 --> 5757.32] Amen. -[5785.32 --> 5787.32] Amen. -[5815.32 --> 5817.32] Amen. -[5845.32 --> 5847.32] Amen. -[5847.32 --> 5849.32] Amen. -[5849.32 --> 5851.32] Amen. -[5851.32 --> 5853.32] Amen. -[5853.32 --> 5855.32] Amen. -[5855.32 --> 5859.32] Great is your faithfulness, O God. -[5859.32 --> 5869.32] You wrestle with the sinner's restless heart. -[5869.32 --> 5877.32] You lead us by still waters into mercy. -[5877.32 --> 5883.32] And nothing can keep us apart. -[5883.32 --> 5889.32] So remember your people. -[5889.32 --> 5893.32] Remember your children. -[5893.32 --> 5899.32] Remember your promise of God. -[5899.32 --> 5905.32] Your grace is enough. -[5905.32 --> 5909.32] Your grace is enough. -[5909.32 --> 5915.32] Your grace is enough for me. -[5915.32 --> 5922.32] Great is your love and justice, God. -[5922.32 --> 5924.32] God of Jacob. -[5924.32 --> 5930.32] You used the weak to lead us strong. -[5930.32 --> 5940.32] You lead us in the song of your salvation. -[5940.32 --> 5946.32] And all your people sing along. -[5946.32 --> 5948.32] God of Jacob. -[5948.32 --> 5950.32] God of Jacob. -[5950.32 --> 5952.32] You lead us in the song of your salvation. -[5952.32 --> 5954.32] You lead us in the song of your salvation. -[5954.32 --> 5956.32] You lead us in the song of your salvation. -[5956.32 --> 5962.32] Enjoying your salvation. -[5962.32 --> 5968.32] Fucking joy. -[5968.32 --> 5970.32] COVID. -[5970.32 --> 5972.32] God of Jacob is your worthy name. -[5972.32 --> 5977.32] God of Jacob is your�. -[5977.32 --> 5980.32] Your grace is your folly. -[5980.32 --> 5994.32] Your grace is enough. Your grace is enough. Your grace is enough for me. -[5994.32 --> 6009.56] So remember your people. Remember your children. Remember your promise, O God. -[6009.56 --> 6024.56] Your grace is enough. Your grace is enough. Your grace is enough for me. -[6024.56 --> 6039.56] Your grace is enough. Your grace is enough for me. -[6039.56 --> 6055.56] God, I sing your grace is enough. I'm covered in your love. Your grace is enough for me. -[6056.56 --> 6059.56] For me. -[6069.56 --> 6086.90] As you go this week, go as those sent by God, as those commissioned by him, -[6086.98 --> 6093.34] as those empowered by the Spirit to proclaim the gospel in the story of your life. -[6093.34 --> 6097.86] And go as those who know that God goes with you. -[6097.86 --> 6103.66] Receive the blessing of our God for the journey of faith ahead. -[6105.36 --> 6107.32] God, go before you to lead you. -[6108.04 --> 6110.08] God, go behind you to protect you. -[6110.64 --> 6112.68] God, go beneath you to support you. -[6113.04 --> 6115.42] And God, go beside you to befriend you. -[6116.06 --> 6118.28] Do not be afraid. -[6118.92 --> 6121.00] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[6121.00 --> 6122.00] Do not be afraid. -[6122.00 --> 6122.64] Do not be afraid. -[6122.64 --> 6128.02] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[6128.88 --> 6129.54] Amen. -[6151.00 --> 6159.04] Come set your rule and reign in our hearts again. -[6160.00 --> 6162.88] Increase in us, we pray. -[6163.56 --> 6166.80] Unbill while we're made. -[6167.26 --> 6170.80] Come set our hearts ablaze with hope. -[6170.80 --> 6174.62] Like wildfire in our very souls. -[6174.62 --> 6180.36] Holy Spirit, come and reign us now. -[6180.36 --> 6184.68] We are your church. -[6184.68 --> 6191.32] We need your power in us. -[6191.32 --> 6200.00] We seek your kingdom first. -[6200.00 --> 6203.84] We hunger and we thirst. -[6204.46 --> 6207.68] Refuse to waste our lives. -[6208.18 --> 6211.50] For you're our joy and prize. -[6211.96 --> 6215.62] To see the captive's hearts released. -[6215.62 --> 6219.46] The hurt, the sick, the poor at peace. -[6219.46 --> 6226.02] We lay down our lives for heaven's cause. -[6226.92 --> 6229.90] We are your church. -[6231.00 --> 6236.08] We pray, revive this earth. -[6241.08 --> 6244.86] Build your kingdom here. -[6244.86 --> 6248.60] Let the darkness fear. -[6248.60 --> 6252.30] Show your mighty hand. -[6252.50 --> 6256.06] Heal our streets and land. -[6256.40 --> 6259.66] Set your church on fire. -[6260.12 --> 6263.34] With this nation back. -[6263.78 --> 6266.60] Change the atmosphere. -[6267.50 --> 6271.08] Build your kingdom here. -[6271.56 --> 6272.54] We pray. -[6274.86 --> 6282.30] Unleash your kingdom's power. -[6282.50 --> 6286.02] Reaching the near and far. -[6286.40 --> 6289.78] No force of hell can stop. -[6290.14 --> 6293.64] Your beauty changing hearts. -[6294.08 --> 6297.74] You may afford much more than this. -[6298.06 --> 6301.44] Awake the kingdom seed in us. -[6301.44 --> 6307.92] Fill us with strength and love of pride. -[6307.92 --> 6311.66] We are your church. -[6311.66 --> 6311.72] We are your church. -[6311.72 --> 6318.36] We are the hope on earth. -[6322.36 --> 6326.46] Build your kingdom here. -[6326.46 --> 6330.16] Let the darkness fear. -[6330.16 --> 6337.80] Show your kingdom here. -[6337.80 --> 6337.90] Show your mighty hand. -[6337.90 --> 6338.02] Show your mighty hand. -[6338.02 --> 6339.80] Heal our streets and land. -[6339.80 --> 6341.32] Set your church on fire. -[6341.32 --> 6344.94] With this nation back. -[6344.94 --> 6348.02] Change the atmosphere. -[6348.02 --> 6352.42] Build your kingdom here. -[6352.92 --> 6354.12] We pray. -[6354.12 --> 6354.30] We pray. -[6354.30 --> 6384.28] Thank you. -[6384.30 --> 6414.28] Thank you. -[6414.30 --> 6444.28] Thank you. -[6444.30 --> 6446.30] Thank you. -[6474.30 --> 6476.30] Thank you. -[6504.30 --> 6506.30] Thank you. -[6534.30 --> 6536.30] Thank you. -[6564.30 --> 6566.30] Thank you. -[6594.30 --> 6596.30] Thank you. -[6624.30 --> 6626.30] Thank you. -[6654.30 --> 6656.30] Thank you. -[6684.30 --> 6686.30] Thank you. -[6714.30 --> 6716.30] Thank you. -[6744.30 --> 6746.30] Thank you. -[6774.30 --> 6776.30] Thank you. -[6804.30 --> 6806.30] Thank you. -[6806.30 --> 6836.28] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, January 12, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, January 12, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 9d561818fcaa8ce92a0aa46367b64c7457c521bd..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, January 12, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,80 +0,0 @@ -• Repetition of the phrase "You are perfect in all your ways" -• Hymn or song lyrics referencing Jesus and salvation -• Kevin Lowbert introducing himself as the youth pastor at Emmanuel Christian Reformed Church -• Announcements about a membership project questionnaire and directory consolidation -• Invitation to members to fill out the questionnaire -• Upcoming events: HCBC for youth and catechism/Belgic Confession (grades 9-12), Pastor Chris' read-through of catechism, new members class -• Event on January 21st: "Making Disciples" evening event for care group leaders, small group leaders, and ministry leaders -• Call to worship from Psalm 147 and a series of hymns and choruses about Jesus Christ as hope and salvation -• Declaration of victory over death and grave -• Importance of spending time with God -• Prayer for guidance and relationship with God -• Song: "Great is thy faithfulness" by Thomas O. Chisholm -• Praise and worship of God's mercy, love, and faithfulness -• Songs of worship, prayer, and devotion -• Introduction to Reframe Ministries and their mission to translate the gospel into various languages and cultures -• Collection for Reframe Ministries during church service -• Discussion about nicknames and names given by loved ones or in biblical context -• Announcements for upcoming Children's Worship Time topic: Jesus as the Lamb of God -• Introduction and Happy New Year's greeting -• Scripture reading from Thessalonians 1:4 and message of being loved by God -• Prayer for guidance, help, and strength in sharing God's word -• Prayer for members recovering from illness or surgery -• Prayer for the new year and acknowledging God's presence and love despite chaos -• The speaker leads a workshop called "Compelling Christianity" that focuses on Romans 3 and what separates Christianity from other religions. -• The key claim of Christianity is that salvation is not dependent on individual works, but rather on Jesus' actions. -• In contrast to other worldviews, where salvation is achieved through moral performance or accomplishments, Christianity teaches that it's a gift based on Christ's righteousness. -• This unique aspect of the Christian gospel can be compelling and interesting for some, especially youth. -• A potential issue raised by this truth is the question of why bother doing anything if salvation is not dependent on individual actions. -• Some have misinterpreted this idea as "cheap grace" or "covenant child syndrome", where people think they can do whatever they want and still be saved. -• cheap grace vs covenant child syndrome -• transforming faith is a faith that works -• God chooses people and then faith follows -• salvation comes from God's loving grace, not human effort -• true faith produces visible results in one's life -• faith comes from the power of the Holy Spirit -• The faith of early Christians was a spirit-empowered conviction that led to transformation -• Faith in Jesus produces tangible results, as seen in Scripture -• James 2:26 and Ephesians 2:10 emphasize the connection between faith and good works -• When God saves us, we have work to do because of our salvation -• Faith is rooted in Jesus Christ and manifests in daily life -• The transformative power of faith shapes how people live, talk, gather, spend money, work, and serve their communities -• This church in Thessalonica was commended for having a faith that works -• Evidence of being a Christian should be seen in one's day-to-day living -• Similarities exist between the Thessalonian church and Emmanuel Church, reflecting God's work -• Ministries at Emmanuel Church produce faith in its congregation -• Teams at Emmanuel Church labor with love to serve the community -• Compassion care is evident through various ministries and unseen acts of kindness -• The transforming work of Christ reoriented the lives of the Thessalonians, resulting in a visible break from their past pursuits. -• The church's faith works is evident in their actions, including repentance and service. -• Those who call Jesus Lord can regularly turn to God and trust that he is with them always. -• For those who have not made this confession yet, there is an invitation to press in and be part of the text, which is a letter written to a specific church who confessed Jesus as Lord. -• Repentance is necessary, turning away from idols that entangle us -• Idols can be anything, including good things elevated to ultimate status -• The Thessalonians were admired for turning away from idols and turning to God -• Daily examination of one's own idols is crucial -• Faith should work, laboring in love and enduring through hope in Jesus -• Hope is found in the eventual return of King Jesus Christ -• The Thessalonian church's practical application of Paul's theology -• The importance of looking up with anticipation for Christ's return -• The distinction between passive waiting and active faith -• The role of hope in reorienting life around the promise of Christ's return -• The connection between faith, works, and living a life that glorifies God -• The significance of the Lord's Supper as a means of connecting with God and each other -• The significance of the Lord's Supper -• The invitation to participate in the Lord's Supper, regardless of faith level or frequency of attendance -• Instructions for participating in the Lord's Supper in groups and receiving the bread and juice -• Notes on special circumstances for those unable to come forward -• Availability of prayer and worship during the service -• Praise and worship music -• Repetition of "Thank you" phrase -• Song lyrics: "Here I am to worship" -• Discussion of God's love and worthiness -• Confession of sin and need for God's grace -• Reference to Jesus as hope and stay -• Invitation to sing "Jesus Messiah" -• Worship and praise to Jesus Christ -• Discussion of God's love and sacrifice through Jesus Messiah -• References to the Bible and Christian theology (e.g. name above all names, blessed redeemer, emmanuel) -• Invitation to receive God's blessing and presence in daily life -• Benediction and dismissal from worship service \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, January 12, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, January 12, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 61d2684b77040ab8d72ed29bd1ff4cb0fd401d5f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, January 12, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1220 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.10] You are perfect in all of your ways -[6.10 --> 16.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[16.00 --> 20.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[30.00 --> 59.98] You are perfect in all of your ways -[60.00 --> 89.98] You are perfect in all of your ways -[90.00 --> 100.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[100.00 --> 110.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[110.00 --> 120.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[120.00 --> 130.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[130.00 --> 140.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[140.00 --> 170.00] -[170.00 --> 200.00] -[200.00 --> 210.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[210.00 --> 220.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[220.00 --> 230.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[230.00 --> 240.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[240.00 --> 250.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[250.00 --> 260.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[260.00 --> 262.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[262.00 --> 272.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[272.00 --> 274.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[274.00 --> 276.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[276.00 --> 286.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[286.00 --> 296.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[296.00 --> 298.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[298.00 --> 302.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[302.00 --> 306.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[306.00 --> 308.00] And not like you -[308.00 --> 312.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[312.00 --> 314.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[314.00 --> 316.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[316.00 --> 318.00] You are perfect in all of your ways -[318.00 --> 332.00] I walk in standing there -[332.00 --> 334.00] Should we go and walk away throughout you? -[334.00 --> 337.00] I walk away from therecebal -[337.00 --> 366.98] Thank you. -[367.00 --> 396.98] Thank you. -[397.00 --> 426.98] Thank you. -[427.00 --> 456.98] Thank you. -[457.00 --> 459.00] Thank you. -[487.00 --> 489.00] Thank you. -[517.00 --> 519.00] Thank you. -[519.00 --> 521.00] Thank you. -[521.00 --> 523.00] Thank you. -[523.00 --> 525.00] Thank you. -[525.00 --> 527.00] Thank you. -[527.00 --> 529.00] Thank you. -[529.00 --> 531.00] Thank you. -[531.00 --> 537.00] Thank you. -[537.00 --> 543.00] Thank you. -[543.00 --> 545.00] Thank you. -[545.00 --> 547.00] Thank you. -[547.00 --> 555.00] Your eyes upon Jesus -[555.00 --> 565.00] The foal in his wonderful face -[565.00 --> 579.00] And the things of earth will grow strange -[579.00 --> 591.00] In the light of his glory and peace -[591.00 --> 599.00] Oh soul, are you weary and troubled? -[599.00 --> 605.00] No light in the darkness you see -[605.00 --> 611.00] There's light for a look at the Savior -[611.00 --> 617.00] And life more abundant and free -[617.00 --> 625.00] Through death and to life everlasting -[625.00 --> 631.00] He passed and we follow him there -[631.00 --> 637.00] Oh, us and no more have dominion -[637.00 --> 643.00] For more than conquerors we are -[643.00 --> 655.00] Oh, turn your eyes upon Jesus -[655.00 --> 665.00] The foal in his wonderful face -[665.00 --> 677.00] And the things of earth will grow strange -[677.00 --> 681.00] The foal in his wonderful face -[681.00 --> 685.00] You can keep on your уч koll -[685.00 --> 687.00] Before Ere ponieważ -[687.00 --> 689.00] You may need more men -[689.00 --> 690.00] You may need more men -[690.00 --> 691.00] You may be aware of Mydom -[691.00 --> 693.00] You change the world -[693.00 --> 697.00] Knowing that your commands -[697.00 --> 699.00] Are your mature and adapting -[699.00 --> 709.32] believe him and all will be well then go to a world that is dying -[711.32 --> 715.24] his perfect salvation to tell -[729.00 --> 742.12] good morning everyone -[744.52 --> 749.40] oh we'll try that again i think good morning everyone oh that's so nice uh welcome to -[749.40 --> 753.40] lagley emmanuel christian reformed church this morning my name is kevin lowbert i'm the youth -[753.40 --> 758.04] pastor here it's so good to see you all here this morning a few announcements before we begin -[758.60 --> 764.60] in earnest this morning or maybe as we begin in earnest this morning um many of you hopefully -[764.60 --> 770.04] most of you if you are a member here at emmanuel have received an email or seen other advertisements -[770.04 --> 775.32] for a membership project questionnaire so we have created a google form where we are seeking -[775.96 --> 781.64] just a bunch of information birthdays and addresses and things of the like and we're looking for that -[781.64 --> 787.00] as a church office staff to be able to put together directories and to be able to compile together all -[787.00 --> 791.32] that information in one spot we have it all scattered about but it makes um doing all sorts -[791.32 --> 796.12] of different things a little bit uh crazy and so we want to kind of consolidate that and so that's -[796.12 --> 800.84] why that form exists so if you've seen that form please we just invite you to fill it out it should -[800.84 --> 805.16] take somewhere between two and five minutes um i know that there may seem to be a lot of questions -[805.16 --> 809.24] there but we really encourage you all to fill it out that way we can get a church directory out to -[809.24 --> 813.96] everybody as well so um please consider doing that if you need a little bit of help with that -[813.96 --> 820.44] uh next week sunday after the service um i think maria perhaps myself uh will be in the back there with -[820.44 --> 825.24] a laptop computer or two and we can help sort of direct you in that way as well so if you're a member -[825.24 --> 830.12] here please do uh fill that out for us that would be wonderful there's also three events that i want -[830.12 --> 836.36] to bring to everyone's attention uh today if you are uh today we have hcbc so that's for youth and for -[836.36 --> 841.88] anyone so uh youth will be going through uh catechism and belgic confession uh grade 9 to 12 you're -[841.88 --> 847.40] welcome to come out to that and then pastor chris is leading a read through of the catechism as well and -[847.40 --> 851.64] so if you've been coming to that or if you're curious about that please do stick around from noon until -[851.64 --> 858.20] one today i will be doing that uh there is lunch as well um new members class if you're a new member -[858.20 --> 862.84] here you're invited to come out next sunday after the morning service with pastor chris i'll learn -[862.84 --> 866.12] more about what it means to be a member here at emmanuel what this church is about what our -[866.12 --> 870.60] denominations about things like that so if you're a new member uh that class will start next week -[870.60 --> 875.24] and it will also happen on february the 2nd so please kind of circle those sundays in your calendars -[875.24 --> 883.48] as well and then finally on tuesday january 21st in the evening um we are hosting here a uh an -[883.48 --> 889.16] evening event for care group leaders small group leaders ministry leaders anyone who wants to come -[889.16 --> 894.60] out on leading small groups it'll be a making disciples uh event and so please have that night -[894.60 --> 899.24] circled in your calendar again if you uh are involved in small groups in any way if you lead a small group -[899.24 --> 903.56] in a ministry setting or in a care group setting or if you're a leader or you're just interested in this -[903.56 --> 909.56] please do come out on tuesday january the 21st that's the announcements we've got today and so -[909.56 --> 914.44] now i would love to invite you all to rise and receive god's greeting this morning -[919.32 --> 928.28] god's greeting this morning comes from revelation 1. grace and peace to you from him who is and who was -[928.28 --> 935.32] and who is to come and from the seven spirits before his throne and from jesus christ who is the faithful -[935.32 --> 943.08] witness the firstborn of the dead and the ruler of the kings of the earth amen as god has greeted us -[943.08 --> 946.68] this morning please take a moment to greet those around you -[958.28 --> 972.28] good morning -[972.28 --> 995.72] good morning our call to worship comes from psalm 147 verses 11 and 12. the lord delights in those who fear him -[995.72 --> 999.64] who put their hope in his unfailing love -[1000.52 --> 1008.04] extol the lord jerusalem praise your god zion the lord delights in us because we put our hope in his -[1008.04 --> 1023.72] unfailing love as we worship this morning may we extol our lord for his unfailing love for us -[1025.72 --> 1027.88] we worship this morning -[1032.60 --> 1034.36] so -[1034.36 --> 1035.72] jesus -[1035.72 --> 1039.72] hope of the nations jesus -[1039.72 --> 1041.72] comfort for all who mourn -[1041.72 --> 1047.72] you are the source of heaven's call on earth -[1047.72 --> 1061.72] jesus -[1061.72 --> 1076.62] мо -[1076.62 --> 1081.00] jesus -[1081.00 --> 1088.96] You are the light shining for all the world to see. -[1089.44 --> 1093.40] You rose from the dead, conquering fear. -[1093.86 --> 1097.30] Our heads of peace drive us here. -[1097.90 --> 1103.40] Jesus, our hope, living for all who will receive. -[1105.16 --> 1106.84] Lord, we believe. -[1111.00 --> 1118.20] Jesus, our wealth and nations. -[1119.20 --> 1123.70] Jesus, comfort for all who mourn. -[1123.70 --> 1129.70] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth. -[1130.82 --> 1133.86] Jesus, light in the darkness. -[1135.04 --> 1138.28] Jesus, through the circumstance. -[1138.28 --> 1145.38] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth. -[1145.86 --> 1149.60] In history, you lived and died. -[1149.92 --> 1151.86] You broke the chains. -[1151.98 --> 1153.88] You rose to life. -[1155.32 --> 1158.80] You are the hope living in us. -[1159.26 --> 1160.68] You are the rock. -[1160.68 --> 1162.32] You are the hope of the earth. -[1162.32 --> 1169.26] You are the light shining for all the world to see. -[1170.78 --> 1174.68] You rose from the dead, conquering fear. -[1175.22 --> 1178.62] Our heads of peace drive us here. -[1179.20 --> 1184.00] Jesus, our hope, living for all who will receive. -[1184.00 --> 1203.48] For all good of all you have. -[1204.02 --> 1206.40] As a way is a mess, you speak your strength. -[1206.42 --> 1207.60] As a way is a light, you gain the consequence. -[1207.60 --> 1209.66] of the long as forgiveness of death. -[1209.66 --> 1236.76] How great the chasm that lay between us -[1236.76 --> 1242.40] How high the mountains I could not climb -[1242.40 --> 1248.12] In desperation I turned to heaven -[1248.12 --> 1253.76] And spoke your name into the night -[1254.40 --> 1260.52] Then through the darkness your loving kindness -[1260.52 --> 1265.76] Tore through the shadows of my soul -[1265.76 --> 1271.76] The work is finished, the end is written -[1272.60 --> 1277.76] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[1278.46 --> 1286.76] Who could imagine so great a mercy -[1287.56 --> 1292.76] What heart could follow such boundless grace -[1292.76 --> 1298.76] The God of ages sent down from glory -[1299.76 --> 1304.76] To wear my sin and bear my shame -[1304.76 --> 1310.76] The cross has spoken, I am forgiven -[1310.76 --> 1316.76] The King of kings calls me his own -[1316.76 --> 1322.76] Beautiful Savior, I'm yours forever -[1322.76 --> 1328.76] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[1328.76 --> 1335.76] Hallelujah, praise the one who set me free -[1335.76 --> 1340.76] Hallelujah, death has lost its rib on me -[1340.76 --> 1343.76] You have broken every chain -[1343.76 --> 1346.76] There's salvation in your name -[1346.76 --> 1352.76] Jesus Christ, my living hope -[1352.76 --> 1360.76] Then came the morning that sealed the promise -[1360.76 --> 1366.76] Your very body began to breathe -[1366.76 --> 1368.76] Out of the silence -[1368.76 --> 1369.76] Out of the silence -[1369.76 --> 1370.76] Out of the silence -[1370.76 --> 1372.76] The roaring lion -[1372.76 --> 1373.76] Declared the grave has no claim on me -[1373.76 --> 1375.76] Declared the grave has no claim on me -[1375.76 --> 1377.76] Declared the grave has no claim on me -[1377.76 --> 1378.76] Jesus, yours is the victory -[1378.76 --> 1379.76] Jesus, yours is the victory -[1379.76 --> 1384.76] Then came the morning that sealed the promise -[1384.76 --> 1389.76] Hallelujah, praise the one who set me free -[1389.76 --> 1390.76] Hallelujah, praise the one who set me free -[1390.76 --> 1391.76] Hallelujah, praise the one who set me free -[1391.76 --> 1393.76] Your buried body began to breathe -[1393.76 --> 1394.76] Out of the silence -[1394.76 --> 1395.76] The roaring lion declared the grave of the mercy -[1395.76 --> 1396.76] The roaring lion declared the grave has no claim on me -[1396.76 --> 1397.76] Jesus, yours is the victory -[1397.76 --> 1411.76] grave has no claim on me jesus -[1411.76 --> 1425.76] oh -[1427.76 --> 1441.76] is -[1441.76 --> 1455.76] you have broken -[1455.76 --> 1465.76] oh -[1465.76 --> 1475.76] if i could be seated -[1475.76 --> 1503.76] i was reading in psalm 25 the four to seven verses and it says show me your way lord teach me your path guide me in your truth and teach me for you are my god and my savior and my hope is in you all day long and it kind of noticed that those three action words were show me teach me and guide me they all have a element of spending time with somebody -[1503.76 --> 1513.76] and it has me asking myself how much time am i setting aside to spend with the one that i claim to put my hope in -[1513.76 --> 1531.76] am i too busy to invest in that relationship so i asked let's pray together that um god will help us to find time to spend with the ones that we claim that we love them and our lord let's bow our heads -[1531.76 --> 1537.76] father you are our god and savior -[1537.76 --> 1543.76] forgive us for not making our relationship a priority -[1543.76 --> 1545.76] and for going our own ways -[1545.76 --> 1547.76] father -[1547.76 --> 1549.76] father show us your ways -[1549.76 --> 1553.76] we want you to guide us in your truth -[1553.76 --> 1557.76] help us spend -[1557.76 --> 1559.76] more time with you -[1559.76 --> 1561.76] as we put our hope in your unfailing love -[1561.76 --> 1563.76] amen -[1563.76 --> 1567.76] let's rise as we sing this next song -[1567.76 --> 1571.76] we sing -[1573.76 --> 1575.76] do -[1577.76 --> 1579.76] um -[1579.76 --> 1593.12] Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father. -[1593.12 --> 1601.24] There is no shadow of turning with thee. -[1601.86 --> 1609.26] Thou changest not, but no fashions they fail not. -[1609.26 --> 1616.84] As thou hast been, thou forever wilt be. -[1617.52 --> 1624.26] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[1625.38 --> 1632.26] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[1632.26 --> 1639.52] All I have needed, thy hand hath provided. -[1640.72 --> 1647.26] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[1647.26 --> 1658.00] Summer and winter and springtime and harvest. -[1658.58 --> 1664.72] Sun, moon, and stars in their courses above. -[1664.72 --> 1673.18] Joy with all nature in manifold witness. -[1673.18 --> 1680.86] To thy great faithfulness, mercy and love. -[1681.58 --> 1688.86] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[1688.86 --> 1696.12] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[1696.12 --> 1703.32] All I have needed, thy hand hath provided. -[1703.32 --> 1711.78] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[1711.78 --> 1714.36] Lord, unto me. -[1714.36 --> 1722.32] Pardon for sin and the peace that endureth. -[1722.32 --> 1730.20] Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide. -[1730.20 --> 1737.82] Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow. -[1737.82 --> 1744.82] Blessings all mine with ten thousand beside. -[1744.82 --> 1754.82] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[1754.82 --> 1755.82] Lord, unto me. -[1755.82 --> 1761.82] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[1761.82 --> 1770.82] All I have needed, thy hand hath provided. -[1770.82 --> 1778.82] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[1778.82 --> 1779.82] Amen. -[1779.82 --> 1780.82] Amen. -[1780.82 --> 1781.82] Amen. -[1781.82 --> 1782.82] Amen. -[1782.82 --> 1783.82] Amen. -[1783.82 --> 1784.80] Amen. -[1784.82 --> 1787.82] Amen. -[1787.82 --> 1788.82] Amen. -[1788.82 --> 1789.82] Amen. -[1789.82 --> 1790.90] Amen. -[1790.90 --> 1791.28] Amen. -[1791.28 --> 1791.80] Amen. -[1791.82 --> 1795.86] Amen. -[1795.86 --> 1798.08] Amen. -[1798.08 --> 1799.44] Amen. -[1799.44 --> 1800.14] Amen. -[1805.56 --> 1807.60] Amen. -[1811.68 --> 1813.04] Amen. -[1813.04 --> 1814.32] Amen. -[1814.32 --> 1814.58] Amen. -[1814.58 --> 1819.64] Worthy of every song we could ever sing. -[1821.78 --> 1826.18] Worthy of all the praise we could ever bring. -[1828.44 --> 1832.50] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe. -[1832.76 --> 1834.56] We live for you. -[1834.56 --> 1864.54] We live for you. -[1864.56 --> 1871.58] Oh, there is no one like you. -[1871.78 --> 1874.86] There is none beside you. -[1875.26 --> 1882.90] Open up my eyes in wonder and show me who you are. -[1882.90 --> 1892.96] And fill me with your heart and lead me in your love to those around me. -[1894.56 --> 1911.96] Jesus the name above every other name, -[1911.96 --> 1918.26] Jesus, the only one who could ever save -[1918.26 --> 1924.42] Worthy of every breath we could ever breathe -[1924.42 --> 1930.54] We live for you, we live for you -[1930.54 --> 1936.70] Holy, there is no one like you -[1936.70 --> 1940.00] There is none beside you -[1940.00 --> 1946.38] Open up my eyes in wonder and show me -[1946.38 --> 1952.74] Who you are and fill me with your heart and lead me -[1952.74 --> 1958.10] In your love to those around me -[1970.00 --> 1989.46] I will build my life upon your love -[1989.46 --> 1993.84] It is a firm foundation -[1993.84 --> 2001.84] I will put my trust in you alone -[2001.84 --> 2006.98] And I will not be shaken -[2006.98 --> 2015.36] And I will build my life upon your love -[2015.36 --> 2019.36] It is a firm foundation -[2019.36 --> 2025.74] I will put my trust in you alone -[2025.74 --> 2031.58] And I will not be shaken -[2031.58 --> 2036.74] Holy, there is no one like you -[2036.74 --> 2040.02] There is none beside you -[2040.02 --> 2046.40] Open up my eyes in wonder and show me -[2046.40 --> 2052.46] Who you are and fill me with your heart and lead me -[2052.46 --> 2057.40] Give your love to those around me -[2057.40 --> 2074.86] Good morning, my name is Mike and I'm a deacon here at this church -[2074.86 --> 2077.88] And we're going to take a moment in our time of worship -[2077.88 --> 2081.32] To give back as God has given so much to us -[2081.32 --> 2086.42] So our offerings today are of course for the ministries and missions of this church -[2086.42 --> 2089.48] So anything that you would like to give there -[2089.48 --> 2092.06] You want to designate it or write it as such in your donation -[2092.06 --> 2095.16] And then anything else that goes in the collection bags -[2095.16 --> 2096.64] Is for Reframe today -[2096.64 --> 2099.78] So Reframe Ministries is over 80 years old -[2099.78 --> 2102.20] It's a ministry of the Christian Reformed Church -[2102.20 --> 2105.04] And it started as the Back to God Hour -[2105.04 --> 2108.56] And they actually rebranded as Reframe a number of years ago -[2108.56 --> 2112.22] Their mission is to see the gospel translated -[2112.22 --> 2115.76] And brought to as many languages and culture people as possible -[2115.76 --> 2117.76] So they started as radio -[2117.76 --> 2120.18] And they've since grown into all kinds of different media -[2120.18 --> 2121.66] Training resources -[2121.66 --> 2123.90] And they've grown into quite a powerful ministry -[2123.90 --> 2127.38] So thank you for giving generously to Reframe today -[2127.38 --> 2146.56] And many of our 해주 verdure -[2146.56 --> 2147.56] Amen. -[2176.56 --> 2177.56] Amen. -[2206.56 --> 2207.56] Amen. -[2236.56 --> 2237.56] Amen. -[2266.56 --> 2279.78] All I have within me, I give you praise. -[2279.78 --> 2287.88] All that I adore is in you. -[2287.88 --> 2298.88] Lord, I give you my heart, I give you my soul. -[2298.88 --> 2309.48] I'll live for you alone, every breath that I take, every moment I'm awake. -[2309.48 --> 2339.46] Lord, have your way in me. -[2339.48 --> 2369.46] Lord, have your way in me. -[2369.48 --> 2370.48] Lord, have your way in me. -[2370.48 --> 2371.48] Hi. -[2371.48 --> 2372.48] Hi. -[2372.48 --> 2373.48] Hey, I have a quick question before we go back there. -[2373.48 --> 2375.48] Do you guys have nicknames? -[2375.48 --> 2378.48] Does anybody have a nickname? -[2378.48 --> 2379.48] Care Bear? -[2379.48 --> 2380.48] That's cute. -[2380.48 --> 2381.48] Hales? -[2381.48 --> 2382.48] Mia? -[2382.48 --> 2385.48] Do you have a nickname? -[2385.48 --> 2386.48] Josie? -[2386.48 --> 2388.48] I think that's your name. -[2388.48 --> 2389.48] Yeah? -[2389.48 --> 2390.48] Do you have a nickname? -[2390.48 --> 2391.48] What's your nickname? -[2391.48 --> 2392.48] Beanie? -[2392.48 --> 2393.48] Oh, good one. -[2393.48 --> 2394.48] Do you have a nickname? -[2394.48 --> 2395.48] Thinking about it? -[2395.48 --> 2396.48] What's your nickname? -[2396.48 --> 2397.48] Eyeball? -[2397.48 --> 2398.48] I think you maybe made that up. -[2398.48 --> 2399.48] What's that? -[2399.48 --> 2400.48] Addie? -[2400.48 --> 2401.48] Yeah. -[2401.48 --> 2413.48] Sometimes our nickname is just a short version of our name, but sometimes it's like a different -[2413.48 --> 2414.48] name. -[2414.48 --> 2417.48] Do you have a nickname to sometimes your dads or moms or grandparents or your loved ones, -[2417.48 --> 2421.48] do they even have other names for you guys? -[2421.48 --> 2424.48] Like your little goofballs? -[2424.48 --> 2425.48] Or your rascals? -[2425.48 --> 2427.48] Or your silly guys? -[2427.48 --> 2428.48] Yeah? -[2428.48 --> 2431.96] Yeah, some of you are nodding. I know I've used those words before. -[2432.16 --> 2434.76] We always have lots of names for ourselves, right? -[2434.84 --> 2437.24] People give us other names. We get nicknames. -[2438.12 --> 2439.50] We get cute names. -[2439.74 --> 2442.86] So we're going to talk in Children's Worship Time this month -[2442.86 --> 2447.86] about all the different names that Jesus has in the Bible -[2447.86 --> 2453.52] and how some of those names mean a lot for the names we get to have as followers of Jesus. -[2453.90 --> 2454.70] Yeah, sound good? -[2454.70 --> 2459.88] So today we're going to talk a big one about Jesus as the Lamb of God. -[2460.66 --> 2465.98] Okay? Okay, let's stand and bless the adults that are staying back here, -[2466.14 --> 2468.72] and then we will go and enjoy some time in Children's Worship Time. -[2470.86 --> 2473.04] The Lord be with you. -[2473.46 --> 2474.98] And also with you. -[2484.70 --> 2512.10] It's on. Good. -[2512.10 --> 2513.90] Happy New Year. -[2514.72 --> 2517.48] We weren't here last week, so I can say it now. -[2517.86 --> 2520.68] It's a whole lot easier saying it from up here to everybody. -[2521.44 --> 2522.64] It's like everybody's covered. -[2526.08 --> 2527.92] I have a little list here. -[2528.86 --> 2530.36] My wife is in the nursery. -[2531.04 --> 2532.78] This is actually her shopping list, -[2532.78 --> 2537.76] and sometimes it goes missing along with the pen. -[2539.16 --> 2540.14] Don't tell her. -[2542.00 --> 2545.08] We want to remember Elise Wagner's father. -[2546.30 --> 2547.76] We want to remember Tanya. -[2548.98 --> 2550.40] We want to remember Lena, -[2550.40 --> 2551.94] and there are others as well, -[2552.08 --> 2555.48] but we focused on these three ladies for a while. -[2555.48 --> 2561.74] And then sometimes my sleep is sporadic. -[2563.32 --> 2564.46] So last night, -[2566.60 --> 2574.00] what I do when I get the bulletin every Saturday morning -[2574.00 --> 2576.00] is I look up the scripture. -[2577.14 --> 2577.84] And that's what I do. -[2577.94 --> 2578.50] That's what I did. -[2579.08 --> 2582.04] I also found out yesterday was my turn to pray. -[2582.04 --> 2586.36] It takes me longer than a day to get out of it. -[2586.88 --> 2588.14] Anyway, so here I am. -[2590.54 --> 2594.38] The scripture is Thessalonians 1, -[2595.18 --> 2597.14] and I want to read verse 4. -[2598.88 --> 2601.52] For we know, brothers and sisters, -[2601.52 --> 2602.58] that means everybody, -[2603.98 --> 2605.84] loved by God. -[2606.08 --> 2606.66] Imagine that. -[2606.76 --> 2607.70] Loved by God. -[2608.70 --> 2611.06] That he has chosen you. -[2612.04 --> 2614.74] You know, we should just read that over and over and over. -[2614.84 --> 2615.92] The world is so crazy. -[2616.66 --> 2618.56] We should just read that over and over. -[2618.98 --> 2619.84] Anyway, let's pray. -[2621.68 --> 2623.02] Father, Lord, in heaven, Lord, -[2623.68 --> 2624.32] thank you. -[2625.12 --> 2626.58] Thank you that we can come together. -[2626.84 --> 2628.74] Thank you that we can hear your word. -[2628.92 --> 2630.36] Thank you that we can read your word. -[2630.90 --> 2632.48] Thank you that we can share your word. -[2633.54 --> 2636.58] Help us to do that more and more and more, Lord. -[2636.58 --> 2639.24] Help us to focus on that daily, weekly. -[2639.24 --> 2641.62] Help us to get on our knees, Lord. -[2641.88 --> 2642.98] Nobody needs to know. -[2643.62 --> 2644.38] Go to your room. -[2644.96 --> 2645.58] Bow yourself. -[2646.54 --> 2647.12] And just pray. -[2648.50 --> 2649.76] Lord, and if we don't know how, -[2649.82 --> 2650.60] just ask for help. -[2650.80 --> 2651.32] Lord, help. -[2651.94 --> 2652.54] And you will. -[2652.74 --> 2653.08] You do. -[2653.74 --> 2654.34] Thank you. -[2656.04 --> 2657.42] Lord, we bring before you -[2657.42 --> 2659.14] some of our members who -[2659.14 --> 2661.08] are recovering. -[2662.00 --> 2663.54] Some of them are in the midst of -[2663.54 --> 2666.74] stuff being treated -[2666.74 --> 2667.86] or surgery -[2667.86 --> 2669.10] or whatever, Lord. -[2669.18 --> 2669.84] You know everyone. -[2671.02 --> 2672.68] We prefer everyone that has -[2672.68 --> 2674.48] issues to deal with -[2674.48 --> 2676.08] and that from time to time -[2676.08 --> 2676.98] is most of us, Lord. -[2678.70 --> 2680.38] Lord, we thank you for this new year. -[2680.82 --> 2682.08] Lord, there's so much happening -[2682.08 --> 2685.10] and yet you are always in charge. -[2685.10 --> 2686.56] You always love us -[2686.56 --> 2688.68] and you have called -[2688.68 --> 2689.78] each one of us, Lord. -[2691.80 --> 2693.28] Lord, as we deal with that -[2693.28 --> 2694.42] from day to day, -[2694.56 --> 2695.42] whatever we do, -[2695.72 --> 2696.14] school, -[2697.06 --> 2697.48] teaching, -[2698.32 --> 2699.12] working anywhere, -[2701.02 --> 2701.46] preaching, -[2702.68 --> 2704.16] running a congregation, Lord, -[2705.60 --> 2707.00] Lord, will you lead and guide us? -[2707.00 --> 2710.16] Will you send us -[2710.16 --> 2713.58] to people who need your help? -[2713.58 --> 2715.36] Will you send people to us -[2715.36 --> 2716.64] when we need help, Lord, -[2717.04 --> 2717.74] and to share? -[2719.72 --> 2720.88] Lord, thank you that -[2720.88 --> 2722.26] we can be called Emmanuel. -[2723.86 --> 2725.34] Thank you that we can be -[2725.34 --> 2727.22] servants in your world, Lord. -[2727.92 --> 2729.86] Give us the strength -[2729.86 --> 2730.60] and the power -[2730.60 --> 2731.24] and the wisdom -[2731.24 --> 2732.44] and the light -[2732.44 --> 2734.84] to dare to share, Lord. -[2736.28 --> 2737.10] Lord, we pray -[2737.10 --> 2738.48] will you be with Kevin this morning -[2738.48 --> 2740.06] as he shares your word, Lord. -[2740.62 --> 2741.62] Will you be with each of us -[2741.62 --> 2743.18] to not only listen -[2743.18 --> 2744.82] but to go home -[2744.82 --> 2747.80] and look up that scripture -[2747.80 --> 2748.54] a little bit more, -[2748.88 --> 2749.86] study it some more, -[2751.16 --> 2752.20] and then share -[2752.20 --> 2753.92] when we have the opportunity, Lord. -[2753.96 --> 2754.68] It doesn't have to be -[2754.68 --> 2755.26] a big sermon. -[2755.42 --> 2756.14] It doesn't have to be -[2756.14 --> 2758.34] a big spiel or whatever, Lord. -[2758.42 --> 2760.66] Just that we love you -[2760.66 --> 2761.92] and that people know that -[2761.92 --> 2762.90] and see that, Lord. -[2763.04 --> 2764.00] That's why we're here. -[2764.68 --> 2765.86] Thank you in Jesus' name. -[2765.96 --> 2766.18] Amen. -[2773.18 --> 2776.24] Very, very much. -[2776.24 --> 2776.88] Thank you. -[2776.88 --> 2777.10] Thank you. -[2777.10 --> 2795.14] Several times over the past few years, I've had this cool opportunity to lead a workshop -[2795.14 --> 2799.78] at various youth conferences entitled Compelling Christianity. -[2800.72 --> 2804.94] Youth, if you're here still, we've talked about this a bunch over like youth ministry -[2804.94 --> 2807.34] last couple years, so you can just zone out for like a whole minute. -[2807.46 --> 2809.06] I'll call you back when I'm ready for you, right? -[2809.18 --> 2813.44] So Compelling Christianity, it focuses on Romans 3. -[2814.04 --> 2820.16] And we looked at what separates Christianity from every other religion and worldview out there. -[2820.28 --> 2821.16] It's a big claim. -[2821.92 --> 2825.36] But to ruin the whole entire workshop and all of the lead up to it, -[2825.36 --> 2828.84] what's so compelling about Christianity is that with Jesus, -[2828.84 --> 2835.04] your salvation is not dependent on you or your works. -[2835.80 --> 2842.02] Your salvation, your pathway to forgiveness, mercy, and eternal life is, was, and always has been -[2842.02 --> 2845.32] dependent on Jesus and what he did. -[2845.88 --> 2846.96] Not you, but him. -[2847.16 --> 2853.04] In every other religion, in every other worldview, the belief is that your morals, your accomplishments, -[2853.04 --> 2860.06] your spiritual records, what you do affects the outcome, affects your present and your future. -[2860.24 --> 2864.28] If your performance, your actions, or your accomplishments are good enough, -[2864.62 --> 2869.54] you go to heaven, or you go to a place called jhana, or you attain nirvana or enlightenment, -[2870.04 --> 2872.38] or you become a sovereign over a planet, -[2872.74 --> 2877.08] or you end up creating a positive legacy for yourself and then simply cease to be. -[2878.28 --> 2880.54] Now, I'm summing up a whole workshop here in a paragraph, -[2880.54 --> 2882.68] so this is a little bit oversimplified, but it's true. -[2883.04 --> 2889.38] Everywhere else, your eternity, your salvation, or whatever you call it, however you dress it up, -[2889.70 --> 2891.38] depends on you. -[2892.80 --> 2897.16] However, with Christianity, with Jesus, God intervenes. -[2897.76 --> 2899.04] Jesus came to us. -[2899.64 --> 2902.66] Righteousness is given apart from what we do. -[2902.96 --> 2904.28] No other place offers this. -[2904.64 --> 2909.14] Outside of the gospel, we must deliver our own righteousness to earn our way to glory. -[2909.14 --> 2910.88] But Christ's gospel is different. -[2910.88 --> 2916.30] It says that we have developed a perfect righteousness, or God, sorry, has developed a perfect righteousness, -[2916.52 --> 2917.68] and he offers it to you. -[2918.54 --> 2921.94] And by what Christ did, we are accepted. -[2922.74 --> 2924.98] That's the uniqueness of the Christian gospel. -[2925.06 --> 2929.10] Now, we preach this all the time here because this is the gospel truth found in Jesus. -[2929.10 --> 2933.74] Now, what's cool is when I do this workshop with youth, most people listen, -[2933.94 --> 2936.10] and there's generally pretty good engagement, which is nice, -[2936.16 --> 2939.92] but then as it ends, most youth sort of filter out the back, and that's totally fine and normal. -[2940.10 --> 2945.06] But every time I've done it, at least one, and oftentimes several youths come up to me afterwards, -[2945.56 --> 2947.30] very intrigued, very excited. -[2947.66 --> 2950.64] They've said that they've never heard this before or presented in this way, -[2950.64 --> 2955.02] and they become just a little bit more interested in what this gospel of Jesus is saying. -[2956.62 --> 2958.28] Because this is compelling. -[2959.82 --> 2961.20] It's not up to you. -[2961.40 --> 2962.28] It's because of him. -[2963.54 --> 2964.38] All right, youth, now time over. -[2964.46 --> 2965.02] You can come back now. -[2966.92 --> 2972.94] Now, this very compelling truth does open up a curious question, though. -[2972.94 --> 2980.02] If our salvation is not dependent on us, if we don't have to do anything to earn salvation, -[2980.16 --> 2984.38] if salvation is completely and utterly because of what Christ accomplished, -[2985.38 --> 2989.92] if salvation is all grace, why bother doing anything? -[2991.84 --> 2994.68] See, if we don't have to do anything for our salvation, -[2995.40 --> 2998.02] and we could just repent of our sin and be saved, -[2998.02 --> 3003.14] why not just do whatever we want and then give it to Jesus later? -[3004.62 --> 3008.70] See, in reformed circles, I've heard this called covenant child syndrome. -[3009.92 --> 3012.08] In other circles, I've heard it called cheap grace. -[3013.08 --> 3018.16] But this sort of misplaced and unethical idea is that if we're saved by faith in Jesus, -[3018.74 --> 3022.12] and it's not by our own works, and he forgives you anyways, -[3023.32 --> 3026.66] just do whatever you want, have faith, and repent on your deathbed. -[3026.66 --> 3030.12] You get no rules, no requirements, all the glory, eternal life. -[3030.20 --> 3031.12] Boom, loophole. -[3032.60 --> 3033.50] It's a win-win. -[3035.88 --> 3039.42] Well, as we continue our sermon series today on the letters to the church in Thessalonica, -[3039.78 --> 3045.08] we'll see that this text that we're about to read dispels the idea of cheap grace -[3045.08 --> 3046.64] or covenant child syndrome. -[3047.42 --> 3050.86] Paul celebrates the faith of this church in Thessalonica -[3050.86 --> 3054.02] and praises them for a faith that works. -[3054.86 --> 3056.42] They have a faith that works. -[3056.66 --> 3058.20] So we're going to dig into that today. -[3058.44 --> 3062.80] We'll be reading 1 Thessalonians 1, verses 2 to 10 together. -[3062.92 --> 3065.18] And as always, I invite you to have your Bibles open. -[3065.26 --> 3066.44] There's some in the back if you need. -[3066.68 --> 3068.80] You can even have your Bible apps on your phone open. -[3068.86 --> 3072.06] That's great, because we're going to be referencing this passage over and over again today. -[3073.36 --> 3077.24] But 1 Thessalonians 1, verses 2 to 10 says this. -[3077.24 --> 3107.24] -[3107.24 --> 3115.66] You know how we lived among you for your sake. -[3115.66 --> 3122.60] You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering -[3122.60 --> 3126.50] with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. -[3126.50 --> 3132.04] And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. -[3132.04 --> 3137.42] The Lord's message rang out from you, not only in Macedonia and Achaia. -[3137.50 --> 3140.38] Your faith in God has become known everywhere. -[3141.54 --> 3143.76] Therefore, we do not need to say anything about it, -[3143.80 --> 3147.34] for they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. -[3147.34 --> 3154.04] They tell how you turn to God from idols to serve the living and true God -[3154.04 --> 3157.58] and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, -[3157.98 --> 3160.90] Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath. -[3161.92 --> 3162.96] The word of the Lord. -[3164.60 --> 3167.26] It's fun preaching a very positive text, isn't it? -[3167.28 --> 3169.42] This is a very positive text. -[3171.20 --> 3174.16] And the heart of this text is what we talked about off the beginning. -[3174.16 --> 3178.92] The big idea today is that transforming faith is a faith that works. -[3180.24 --> 3182.80] Transforming faith is faith that works. -[3183.70 --> 3186.82] See, Paul and Timothy and Silas, in our text today, -[3186.92 --> 3192.16] they unabashedly celebrate this church in Thessalonica for their faith that is working. -[3193.32 --> 3197.52] And when I say working, I mean like physically and visibly working. -[3197.64 --> 3201.64] A faith that does, not just simply is. -[3201.64 --> 3204.56] Look at the first two verses of our text. -[3204.70 --> 3210.96] See how Paul, Timothy, and Silas just praise this church for their actionable faith. -[3211.88 --> 3216.40] But do notice, they aren't simply boasting. -[3217.14 --> 3218.88] They're boasting in the Lord. -[3219.78 --> 3221.94] They always thank God for them. -[3222.00 --> 3224.74] They remember them before God and before their Father. -[3224.86 --> 3227.56] They praise their faith, their labor of love, and their endurance. -[3227.56 --> 3233.14] But not just their endurance, but their endurance that they have because of their hope in Jesus Christ. -[3234.62 --> 3242.76] They praise God for their brothers and sisters who are worthy of encouraging because of their praise and dedication to God. -[3243.72 --> 3244.82] See, it's God first. -[3246.04 --> 3253.06] And then what flows from God is this spirit-driven work done by this church in Thessalonica because of their faith. -[3253.06 --> 3257.04] Paul then goes on to describe this working faith. -[3257.68 --> 3261.36] In verses 4 and 5, it speaks about how God has chosen them. -[3261.64 --> 3263.02] Dick just highlighted this. -[3263.40 --> 3263.76] He says, -[3264.12 --> 3268.50] For we know, brothers and sisters, loved by God, that he has chosen you. -[3269.10 --> 3273.34] Because our gospel came to you, not simply with words, but also with power. -[3273.74 --> 3275.60] With the Holy Spirit and a deep conviction. -[3277.44 --> 3279.04] See, God had chosen them. -[3279.04 --> 3282.56] And the gospel came to them with power from the Spirit. -[3282.80 --> 3284.78] Again, this is God's directive. -[3286.18 --> 3286.28] Right? -[3286.36 --> 3290.60] The fact that God chose them reminds us, it doubles down on the truth, -[3291.00 --> 3295.54] that salvation is not something that's earned by human effort, not earned by what you do. -[3296.50 --> 3299.86] Instead, it's rooted in God's loving grace. -[3300.72 --> 3307.24] This church in Thessalonica was not chosen by God, though, because they worked on their faith. -[3307.24 --> 3315.08] Rather, this church in Thessalonica, because they were chosen, they had a faith that worked. -[3317.02 --> 3319.84] See, God's choosing precedes faith. -[3319.94 --> 3324.54] And faith, in turn, produces visible results in the lives of these believers. -[3325.78 --> 3326.92] Faith is transformative. -[3328.08 --> 3332.26] And true faith is evidenced by a life that works in response to this grace. -[3332.26 --> 3337.54] Beyond that, our faith comes from the power of the Holy Spirit. -[3337.62 --> 3344.22] According to verse 5 of our text, the Thessalonians' faith, it came through a deep conviction in the work of the Holy Spirit in their hearts. -[3344.94 --> 3349.80] Now, if you remember last week, Pastor Chris talked about this church's context and where they were situated. -[3350.16 --> 3354.84] They didn't rationally follow Jesus because it was convenient for them. -[3355.26 --> 3358.04] This wasn't like a step up for them socially. -[3358.04 --> 3362.14] In fact, they weren't getting any advantages at all by following Christ. -[3362.40 --> 3367.44] Choosing to follow Christ subjected them to all sorts of persecution and suffering. -[3367.84 --> 3372.68] It would have affected them personally, financially, socially, economically, and culturally. -[3374.46 --> 3383.24] And yet, Paul notes in verse 6 that they welcomed the truth of the gospel in the midst of severe suffering. -[3383.24 --> 3389.84] Their faith was not merely of belief or some sort of surface level commitment. -[3390.92 --> 3396.44] It was a spirit-empowered conviction that led them to transformation. -[3398.84 --> 3402.00] This faith in Jesus produces tangible and visible results. -[3402.08 --> 3403.32] We see this elsewhere in Scripture, too. -[3403.40 --> 3405.80] This isn't just found in this text here. -[3405.86 --> 3410.76] The book of James is famous for saying that the faith without works is dead. -[3410.76 --> 3413.64] Similarly, Ephesians 2 verse 10 says this. -[3414.16 --> 3418.20] It says that we are God's workmanship created in Jesus Christ for good works. -[3418.60 --> 3422.92] Which, and hear this, God prepared in advance for us to do. -[3424.68 --> 3426.92] When God saves us, we have work to do. -[3427.54 --> 3430.34] Not to stay saved, but because we are saved. -[3432.42 --> 3434.62] See, faith is rooted in Jesus Christ. -[3435.46 --> 3436.50] It's not hidden. -[3437.20 --> 3438.62] It's not simply belief. -[3438.70 --> 3439.88] It cannot be inactive. -[3439.88 --> 3442.68] It manifests in our daily life. -[3442.98 --> 3444.30] And it shapes the way we live. -[3444.52 --> 3444.92] In everything. -[3445.06 --> 3446.12] It shapes the way we talk. -[3446.38 --> 3448.50] It shapes the way we gather together as community. -[3448.82 --> 3450.40] It shapes the way we spend our money. -[3450.78 --> 3452.84] It shapes the way we work in our communities. -[3453.20 --> 3453.64] Everything. -[3455.12 --> 3459.40] That is the transformative power of faith in the gospel truth of Jesus Christ. -[3460.00 --> 3464.02] And that's what this church in Thessalonica is being praised for. -[3464.20 --> 3465.70] They had a faith that works. -[3465.70 --> 3469.80] And so it raises a good question for us. -[3469.80 --> 3482.30] If someone were to follow me around for a week, would there be enough evidence in my life, in the way that I handle my day-to-day living, for them to accuse me of being a Christian? -[3482.30 --> 3493.96] If someone were to follow you around for a week, would there be enough evidence in the ways that you handle your day-to-day living, for them to accuse you of being a Christian? -[3495.44 --> 3498.80] Would our lives clearly show who we follow? -[3498.80 --> 3498.82] Would our lives clearly show who we follow? -[3498.82 --> 3528.80] Would our lives clearly show who we follow? -[3528.82 --> 3531.46] With one another because of their hope in Jesus Christ. -[3534.32 --> 3547.52] One of the reasons we are doing this sermon series throughout the books, these two books of Thessalonians, is that both Pastor Chris and I see, and what we pray is that many of you will see as well, that God is doing some very cool things here at Emmanuel. -[3547.52 --> 3553.98] Now, obviously, the context is different, and the joys and the sorrows experienced by these two churches don't directly correlate. -[3553.98 --> 3559.10] But what God is doing in our midst seems to have some similarities with this Thessalonian church. -[3560.20 --> 3565.80] When Pastor Chris and I were discussing that this week in our office, Pastor Chris brought up the image of an overhead projector. -[3565.90 --> 3567.74] Remember those with the transparency sheets? -[3568.18 --> 3574.12] And he was like, if you put, like, a transparency sheet of our church and a transparency sheet of the Thessalonian church, you could see some similarities. -[3574.12 --> 3579.40] I'm not going to use that example because Chris is a dinosaur, and I don't think anybody actually knows what he's talking about. -[3579.78 --> 3589.26] But if we wanted to modern it up a little bit, if we utilized advanced document comparison algorithms or leveraged image editing software with overlay functionalities, -[3589.26 --> 3594.66] whether you displayed that on a smart board or by the precision layering tools of a graphic tablet, -[3594.90 --> 3603.18] you could systematically analyze the similarities that see that our church does, in fact, reflect the church described in our text today. -[3603.48 --> 3605.38] Overhead projectors, Chris, seriously. -[3607.94 --> 3612.46] What we're getting at is that there are parallels here. -[3613.60 --> 3615.44] And as Josh would say, we think that's awesome. -[3616.94 --> 3618.10] Look at verse 3 again. -[3618.10 --> 3622.64] The Thessalonian church was commended because their works were produced by faith. -[3623.92 --> 3630.76] When I look here and I see the discipleship ministries whose work produces faith in the lives of our congregation, it's here as well. -[3631.30 --> 3636.84] Ministries like cadets and gems and coffee break and story hour and children's worship time. -[3637.02 --> 3639.04] And it's not just the ministries of this church. -[3639.28 --> 3643.06] There are teams of people here doing hard work behind the scenes, -[3643.06 --> 3647.66] making sure that we are able to gather together and grow in faith with one another. -[3648.10 --> 3652.70] Teams like the kitchen team and board of stewards, sound of media, sound and media, sorry, -[3652.70 --> 3659.34] counting committee, communion prep here today, liturgical arts, worship ministry, all of these groups, -[3660.06 --> 3665.50] and many more do such good work, which allows us to gather and grow in faith together. -[3665.50 --> 3671.50] Now, this Thessalonian church was acclaimed because their labor was also prompted by love. -[3671.58 --> 3680.64] And again, I look around this congregation and I see so many people in ministries laboring in love for the community around us. -[3680.64 --> 3688.16] People are involved in night shift, at Gateway of Hope, organizing and participating in missions trips. -[3688.58 --> 3690.60] They're serving breakfast at HD Stafford. -[3690.86 --> 3695.88] There's the work of the refugee team and various local service opportunities like hamper ministry, -[3696.40 --> 3700.32] food drives, meal trains, kettle campaigners, school supply deliveries, -[3700.86 --> 3703.16] and of course, the work of the deacons and many other people. -[3703.16 --> 3713.06] And finally, this Thessalonian church is encouraged because they endured with one another due to their hope in Jesus Christ. -[3713.16 --> 3715.82] And again, there's so much compassion care happening in this church. -[3717.12 --> 3721.90] You see it in mentorship ministries and pastoral care work and women's and men's ministry, -[3722.08 --> 3725.04] seniors ministry, prayer ministry, the work of our elders, -[3725.58 --> 3730.78] and then the unseen cards and prayers and visiting from those in our community here, -[3730.78 --> 3735.38] which does not always get recognized because it's happening in the background all the time. -[3735.92 --> 3738.94] That is what faith that works looks like. -[3740.44 --> 3741.58] Praise God for that. -[3744.16 --> 3752.90] Commentator Mark Howell notes that the transforming work of Christ decisively and completely reoriented the lives of the Thessalonians. -[3753.38 --> 3757.36] So apparent was their break from past pursuits that others took notice of their transformation. -[3758.40 --> 3760.52] Others took notice of them. -[3760.78 --> 3765.78] One of the reasons I listed all those ministries is not to brag necessarily, -[3766.24 --> 3772.76] but it's to highlight something that Chris and I do all the time. -[3772.86 --> 3775.96] We boast in the Lord about this place, about this church, about you. -[3776.50 --> 3779.96] The work and the time and the effort that goes on by so many of you. -[3780.70 --> 3781.84] We notice you. -[3782.00 --> 3782.88] We thank you. -[3783.50 --> 3784.54] Thank you for your work. -[3784.54 --> 3788.46] Thank you for being faithful to God in that way -[3788.46 --> 3790.52] and for being a part of this community. -[3791.52 --> 3795.66] And maybe some of you are new here or considering different ways of what that could look like for you. -[3795.72 --> 3797.94] We'd love to have you involved in any of these ways. -[3798.32 --> 3800.54] God is doing some amazing things here. -[3800.82 --> 3801.86] Come be a part of that. -[3802.78 --> 3804.22] And church, celebrate this. -[3806.16 --> 3808.28] God is doing his good work through you. -[3808.92 --> 3809.72] Praise God. -[3809.72 --> 3810.72] God is doing some amazing things here. -[3810.72 --> 3811.72] We're not done. -[3811.72 --> 3813.00] We're not done. -[3814.00 --> 3819.06] See, our text here concludes with two verses that provide an example to follow -[3819.06 --> 3822.62] and help us prepare for what lies ahead in the rest of this letter -[3822.62 --> 3824.88] that we're going to be looking at for the next little while. -[3825.14 --> 3827.46] Look at verse 9 here right now. -[3828.24 --> 3829.06] Verse 9 says this. -[3829.12 --> 3829.36] It says, -[3829.36 --> 3841.24] This church turned to God. -[3842.08 --> 3844.06] They repented and they served. -[3846.56 --> 3847.96] That was their faith in action. -[3848.08 --> 3850.02] That was their transformative formula. -[3850.44 --> 3851.58] Their faith that works. -[3851.94 --> 3852.84] They turned to God. -[3853.14 --> 3854.78] They repented and they served. -[3855.80 --> 3858.60] And again, this should be our rhythm of faith as well. -[3858.60 --> 3861.40] We should be turning to God first. -[3862.36 --> 3865.40] Now for those of you out there who call Jesus as your Lord and Savior, -[3865.52 --> 3867.06] this is something that we do regularly. -[3867.56 --> 3870.26] And we can do this because he's already got us. -[3871.26 --> 3872.84] We belong to him. -[3873.76 --> 3874.84] He is not distant. -[3875.14 --> 3875.92] He is near. -[3876.00 --> 3877.78] He might seem far away at times. -[3877.96 --> 3880.38] And things might certainly be hard for us here and there. -[3880.58 --> 3882.16] We can certainly find trouble. -[3882.16 --> 3888.16] But we can always turn to God because we belong to him. -[3888.60 --> 3890.82] And we can trust that he is with us always. -[3892.60 --> 3897.38] No matter what we go through, there is this comfort of knowing that God is with us. -[3897.40 --> 3900.10] And that brings a peace that can pass our understanding. -[3900.10 --> 3908.48] And for those of us here today that might not know him yet, this is a call to faith in this text. -[3909.56 --> 3912.58] A challenge for us to press in a little. -[3913.64 --> 3917.08] An invitation to be brought into this text, actually. -[3917.50 --> 3921.54] This is a letter written to a specific church who confessed that Jesus is Lord. -[3921.54 --> 3925.98] And this here, Emmanuel CRC, is also a church who's confessing the same thing. -[3926.62 --> 3929.12] But it is possible maybe you haven't made this confession yet. -[3930.18 --> 3934.86] But if you're compelled by the grace offered to you by the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. -[3934.92 --> 3939.62] If you're curious about this working faith that we're talking about. -[3939.76 --> 3946.38] About how you're not saved by your actions, but your lives are transformed because of the gospel truth of Jesus Christ. -[3946.38 --> 3951.18] If you're wondering how Jesus lived the life that we've been called to live but fail. -[3951.46 --> 3954.72] And that Jesus then died a death that I deserve, that you deserve. -[3954.86 --> 3957.36] Only to raise up from the dead three days later. -[3957.60 --> 3959.28] Defeating sin and death forever. -[3959.36 --> 3960.80] If you're curious about that. -[3961.66 --> 3963.38] If that intrigues you just a little. -[3963.56 --> 3964.82] Press in. -[3965.86 --> 3967.00] Invite him in. -[3967.08 --> 3969.54] Be a part of this text today. -[3969.68 --> 3971.32] This church today. -[3971.42 --> 3972.08] This body. -[3972.08 --> 3974.98] And by this body I don't mean Emmanuel CRC. -[3975.08 --> 3977.02] Although please do come back and be a part of this. -[3977.56 --> 3979.00] I mean Christ's church. -[3979.80 --> 3983.44] The one whom he lived and died and rose again for. -[3983.50 --> 3987.32] The one whom he redeemed and saved and rules over. -[3987.74 --> 3994.92] Now the church who has been empowered by the Holy Spirit to transform the lives of billions of people throughout history. -[3996.32 --> 3997.16] Press in. -[3997.82 --> 3998.66] Come learn more. -[3998.66 --> 4003.74] We are called to turn to God. -[4005.18 --> 4007.02] And then notice we're called to repent. -[4008.78 --> 4012.00] Turn away from idols or the things that so easily entangle us. -[4012.34 --> 4013.26] Idols are tricky though. -[4013.58 --> 4015.30] Idols are tricky because they can be anything. -[4016.62 --> 4017.26] They can be anything. -[4017.36 --> 4019.22] They can be things we know that are pinning us down. -[4019.42 --> 4020.66] Things that we're very aware of. -[4020.92 --> 4025.10] Things like vices or addictions or things that draw us away from God and community. -[4025.10 --> 4029.90] But they can also be good things actually. -[4030.06 --> 4034.32] Good things that have taken root in our hearts and have become maybe ultimate things. -[4034.96 --> 4037.12] Things that we've elevated in place of God. -[4037.20 --> 4040.68] Things that we actually worship more than God himself. -[4041.54 --> 4045.62] Things like work or play or even people like family and friends. -[4046.30 --> 4049.44] See idols are the things that we place above our God. -[4049.44 --> 4051.16] And they entrap us. -[4051.24 --> 4051.98] Sometimes quickly. -[4052.14 --> 4052.88] Sometimes slowly. -[4053.10 --> 4054.18] But they take our time. -[4054.28 --> 4055.06] They take our energy. -[4055.18 --> 4056.52] They take ourselves. -[4057.86 --> 4060.04] And we allow them to run our lives. -[4061.34 --> 4064.04] And I think often times we don't even realize it. -[4065.74 --> 4069.54] The Thessalonians, they were admired for turning away from those idols. -[4071.54 --> 4074.36] Turning away from those things of the world that were entangling them. -[4074.36 --> 4076.00] And then turning to God. -[4077.28 --> 4079.80] And so for us, what's at the forefront of our minds? -[4079.92 --> 4080.84] Is it our savior? -[4080.98 --> 4084.26] Is it his work in our life or in the lives of the community around it? -[4084.64 --> 4088.08] Is it stewarding his gifts well here on earth? -[4088.84 --> 4090.18] Or is it something else? -[4091.40 --> 4094.38] I think this is a question we can ask every single day. -[4094.68 --> 4096.22] What are our idols? -[4096.38 --> 4097.98] What are we turning to today? -[4098.52 --> 4100.62] Is it God or is it something else? -[4100.62 --> 4106.00] Finally, the Thessalonians. -[4106.22 --> 4109.20] This is going to be a problem throughout this whole sermon series, I think. -[4109.76 --> 4111.56] The Thessalonians served. -[4112.50 --> 4113.82] And we've talked about this. -[4115.26 --> 4116.36] The Thessalonians served. -[4116.60 --> 4118.52] They had a faith that worked. -[4119.06 --> 4120.34] They labored in love. -[4120.64 --> 4123.32] They endured because of the hope that they found in Jesus. -[4124.36 --> 4127.06] Emmanuel CRC, may we do the same. -[4127.06 --> 4139.58] Finally, our text concludes in verse 10, where Paul highlights how that hope that we seek is found in the eventual return of our King Jesus Christ. -[4140.62 --> 4144.62] Now, this actually becomes a bit of a theme that we see throughout the entire letter. -[4144.70 --> 4146.18] Both letters, actually, of Thessalonians. -[4146.18 --> 4154.00] Paul challenges this church to view their present circumstances through the lens of God's eternal promises. -[4154.00 --> 4159.96] See, the letters of 1 and 2 Thessalonians focus heavily on eschatology. -[4160.08 --> 4162.08] That's the study of the end times. -[4162.44 --> 4164.82] Especially, of course, on the final coming of Christ. -[4165.98 --> 4171.32] Notice, though, Paul doesn't aim to answer when Christ will return. -[4172.32 --> 4176.48] But he emphasizes the certainty that it will happen. -[4176.66 --> 4178.26] That Christ will come again. -[4178.44 --> 4179.68] That distinction is crucial. -[4179.68 --> 4184.64] See, the promise of Jesus' return is not a matter of, like, human calculations. -[4185.24 --> 4191.78] But for us, this promise is a divine certainty that actually shapes how we should live today. -[4193.76 --> 4200.86] Do you remember back in 2012, after, like, 5,000 years of history, the Mayan calendar was coming to an end? -[4201.10 --> 4201.64] You remember that? -[4202.16 --> 4203.92] December 21st, 2012. -[4204.62 --> 4207.68] It actually became known as the 2012 phenomenon. -[4207.68 --> 4210.88] So many people thought the world was going to come to an end there. -[4210.96 --> 4213.16] I'm sure you heard about it back then, if you were around. -[4214.00 --> 4214.84] But it was everywhere. -[4214.94 --> 4215.64] It was a big deal. -[4216.18 --> 4219.14] Like, people had circled the date on their calendars. -[4219.24 --> 4221.00] People quit their jobs beforehand. -[4221.24 --> 4223.34] They gathered in parks at night the night before. -[4224.52 --> 4225.18] It's crazy. -[4225.60 --> 4228.12] The world was definitely ending December 12th. -[4228.14 --> 4229.74] Or, sorry, yeah, December 21, 2012. -[4231.42 --> 4232.96] My favorite part was the next day. -[4232.96 --> 4236.56] You know, the day after the world didn't end? -[4237.10 --> 4240.90] Actually, there's a billboard that popped up in a town somewhere in the States. -[4241.76 --> 4242.82] It was awesome. -[4245.78 --> 4249.38] But about that day or hour when Jesus returns, no one knows. -[4249.50 --> 4253.34] Not even the angels in heaven nor the sun, but only the Father. -[4253.34 --> 4260.10] We get trapped sometimes trying to figure out when Christ will come again. -[4260.70 --> 4262.34] Or even how it will go down. -[4263.54 --> 4267.12] But Paul's not worried about how this will happen or when this will happen. -[4268.22 --> 4271.80] He's just reminding people here that it will happen. -[4271.80 --> 4277.56] We don't need to concern ourselves of when or if or how long it will take for Jesus to turn. -[4277.60 --> 4284.34] But we can sure rest in the hope and knowledge that Christ will come again. -[4286.54 --> 4290.44] And for Paul, this wasn't just some, like, theological idea. -[4291.54 --> 4298.06] But it actually was this practical way of life that shaped how the Thessalonian church engaged with their present challenges. -[4298.06 --> 4304.80] It is in this truth that Paul directs all of us, actually. -[4304.92 --> 4307.22] The Thessalonians and the Emmanuelites. -[4308.02 --> 4309.62] Paul urges us all to look up. -[4310.38 --> 4311.56] I mean, figuratively look up. -[4311.58 --> 4314.32] But we could look up with anticipation for our king. -[4315.68 --> 4318.86] See, this gaze, this upward gaze is not, it's not passive waiting. -[4319.12 --> 4320.36] It's not just an ideology. -[4320.60 --> 4322.14] It's an active faith. -[4322.14 --> 4328.70] It reflects a life lived in anticipation for Christ's reign and the fulfillment of all of God's promises. -[4329.60 --> 4339.80] So when chaos or uncertainty surrounds us, our response should not be one of looking around in fear or confusion. -[4340.58 --> 4346.94] But we can plant ourselves and look upward in confident hope. -[4346.94 --> 4353.62] And this perspective shift is not simply about us enduring difficult times together, -[4353.72 --> 4359.20] but it's about us reorienting our lives around the promise of Christ's return. -[4361.08 --> 4371.48] See, faith in Jesus and hope in his kingdom come gives us a foundation that allows us to face present challenges with resilience and with purpose. -[4371.48 --> 4380.60] But more than that, it's a reminder that the story of our lives is part of a much greater narrative. -[4382.54 --> 4385.82] One where God's promises always are fulfilled. -[4386.52 --> 4394.72] And as we wait, and as we look up with anticipation, we're called to live with the faith that works. -[4394.72 --> 4410.04] This letter is going to get to what that looks like and how that faith and works plays itself out. -[4410.60 --> 4419.62] But this faith, which is exemplified by this church, gives us hope because it comes from, is sustained by, -[4419.62 --> 4423.96] and is fixed upon the giver of eternal life, Jesus Christ. -[4425.02 --> 4431.54] This eternal hope reorients our perspectives here and now, as well as tomorrow and beyond. -[4431.72 --> 4431.90] Amen? -[4433.14 --> 4437.62] I'm going to pray, and then following the prayer, Pastor Chris is going to come forward and lead us in the Lord's Supper, -[4437.70 --> 4445.40] which not only reorients our lives, but it grounds us in that reality that Jesus came to save us all from the clutches of sin and death, -[4445.52 --> 4448.78] and will come again to usher in us into eternal glory. -[4449.36 --> 4449.90] So let's pray. -[4449.90 --> 4458.10] Our Father in heaven, God, we praise you for this church in Thessalonica, for this letter to these people, Lord. -[4458.30 --> 4464.90] We praise you for this church as well, for the work that you are doing in and amongst the members here at Emanuel CRC, God. -[4465.12 --> 4471.54] And as we partake in Lord's Supper in a moment, as we go out into our third places today, -[4471.54 --> 4475.34] may we live this life with faith that works. -[4475.84 --> 4479.74] God, may others in our life notice who it is we serve and follow. -[4480.14 --> 4487.60] May we work in our communities, in the way we talk, in the way we work, in the way we spend our money, -[4487.68 --> 4492.50] in the way we gather with one another, in the fun we have, in the joys we have, in the sorrows we experience. -[4492.50 --> 4494.16] May all of it be to your glory. -[4496.70 --> 4502.42] And so God, may that truth infuse itself into our hearts and lives. -[4503.94 --> 4506.18] Be with us now as we celebrate this supper. -[4506.82 --> 4508.42] We pray this in your name. Amen. -[4522.50 --> 4527.98] My name is Chris, and apparently I'm a dinosaur in this church. -[4530.26 --> 4537.90] We are going to come to the table, and as Kevin has just so beautifully said for us, -[4538.38 --> 4546.00] this supper is a means of connecting us not only to God in Jesus Christ as we receive him here, -[4546.22 --> 4551.88] but connecting us to each other as the body of Christ as we together take that in. -[4552.50 --> 4559.72] And so we show that in a couple ways here at Emanuel, not least of which is the liturgy we use, -[4559.78 --> 4560.94] the words that we use. -[4561.62 --> 4566.84] And some of the words that I'm going to invite you to speak and participate as we come to this table -[4566.84 --> 4570.84] are almost 2,000 years old. -[4571.62 --> 4575.92] And so not only are we connecting ourselves to the body of Christ here at Langley Emanuel, -[4575.92 --> 4581.82] but we are connecting ourselves to the Christian church throughout time and space. -[4582.50 --> 4585.00] As those who belong to Jesus. -[4586.00 --> 4592.48] Jesus is really present here at this table, and we receive him as his body. -[4593.10 --> 4597.92] And so as we move through this liturgy, I invite you to speak words that appear on the screen -[4597.92 --> 4603.16] that are indicated for you as a way of connecting to him, connecting to each other, -[4603.16 --> 4606.48] and connecting to the church throughout time and space. -[4607.14 --> 4609.96] And so congregation of Jesus Christ, lift up your hearts. -[4610.80 --> 4612.36] Give them up to the Lord. -[4612.70 --> 4614.86] Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. -[4615.42 --> 4617.60] It is right for us to give thanks. -[4617.84 --> 4618.80] Let us pray together. -[4618.80 --> 4623.62] With joy, we praise you, gracious God. -[4624.34 --> 4626.46] For you have created heaven and earth. -[4627.36 --> 4633.40] You have made us in your image and kept covenant with us, even when we fell into sin. -[4634.14 --> 4640.68] We give you thanks for Jesus Christ, who by his life, death, and resurrection opened for us -[4640.68 --> 4643.54] the way of everlasting life. -[4643.54 --> 4645.50] In his name we pray. -[4646.30 --> 4646.64] Amen. -[4650.26 --> 4652.00] Congregation of the Lord Jesus Christ. -[4652.52 --> 4660.00] Our Lord Jesus, before he suffered, gave us this memorial of his sacrifice until he comes again. -[4660.96 --> 4664.46] And the Lord Jesus, on the night that he was betrayed, took bread. -[4664.46 --> 4668.20] And when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, -[4668.56 --> 4671.30] This is my body, which is for you. -[4672.12 --> 4674.92] Do this in remembrance of me. -[4675.70 --> 4679.10] And in the same way, he took the cup after supper, -[4680.02 --> 4683.68] saying, This cup is the new covenant in my blood. -[4684.82 --> 4689.28] Do this whenever you drink it in remembrance of me. -[4689.28 --> 4694.16] For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, -[4694.36 --> 4698.98] you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes again. -[4700.08 --> 4703.90] This is the mystery of our faith. -[4705.36 --> 4707.70] Your death, O Christ, we proclaim. -[4708.42 --> 4710.96] Your resurrection we affirm with joy. -[4711.64 --> 4713.84] And your coming we await with hope. -[4714.64 --> 4716.68] Glory be to you, Lord Jesus. -[4716.68 --> 4716.84] Jesus. -[4718.84 --> 4723.58] Church family, the Lord has prepared his table for all who love him, -[4723.66 --> 4726.84] for all who trust in him alone for their salvation. -[4727.72 --> 4731.48] And so, come to this table, you who have much faith. -[4731.86 --> 4734.28] Come to this table, you who would like to have more. -[4735.18 --> 4738.28] Come to this table, you who have been to the sacrament often, -[4738.54 --> 4740.88] and you who have not been for a long time. -[4741.20 --> 4744.08] Come to this table, you who have tried to follow Jesus, -[4744.08 --> 4747.42] and come to this table, you who have failed. -[4747.42 --> 4751.92] Come to this table, because Jesus Christ is raised. -[4753.06 --> 4754.48] Come to this table. -[4754.64 --> 4756.26] If you are here with us this morning, -[4756.48 --> 4758.72] or if you are joining us at home, -[4758.76 --> 4761.44] and you are part of this body together, -[4761.64 --> 4766.40] come to this table, because it is Christ who welcomes us here. -[4766.40 --> 4772.70] These are indeed the gifts of God for the people of God. -[4774.66 --> 4776.90] As I mentioned, as we come to this table, -[4777.06 --> 4778.86] we will do so in groups. -[4779.12 --> 4783.14] We will have elders who will indicate when it's time for you to come to the front. -[4783.42 --> 4785.86] We'll gather in a circle in one group, -[4785.92 --> 4789.30] and then you will be past the bread or the juice. -[4789.48 --> 4792.14] As you pass the bread to the person beside you, -[4792.14 --> 4796.18] we invite you to say, this is the body of Christ given for you. -[4796.76 --> 4799.06] As you pass the juice to the person beside you, -[4799.12 --> 4802.18] we invite you to say, the blood of Christ shed for you. -[4802.60 --> 4804.42] And then we will go around in that way. -[4804.50 --> 4807.14] We will all take together, and then you will return to your seats, -[4807.20 --> 4811.34] and then the next group of 20 to 30 or so people -[4811.34 --> 4814.22] will come up to the front and be served in that way. -[4814.92 --> 4816.08] Two notes about that. -[4816.08 --> 4817.92] If you are unable to come to the front, -[4817.92 --> 4820.78] but would like to receive the supper, -[4821.00 --> 4822.70] please indicate that to the elder, -[4822.84 --> 4825.56] and they will serve you in your seat where you are -[4825.56 --> 4829.18] with the same words spoken so that you participate in that way. -[4829.62 --> 4831.16] And throughout this time together, -[4831.16 --> 4834.90] we'll be led in worship sung by the worship team. -[4835.56 --> 4837.46] There's also people available for prayer. -[4837.88 --> 4839.86] And so if you would like to meet with someone to pray, -[4840.36 --> 4842.98] there'll be a couple people in the foyer at the back. -[4842.98 --> 4844.74] They would love to meet you and pray with you -[4844.74 --> 4846.24] either before you come to the front -[4846.24 --> 4847.42] or after you come to the front -[4847.42 --> 4848.94] or in lieu of your coming to the front. -[4849.52 --> 4851.78] However it is that you want to meet them, -[4851.92 --> 4853.78] they will be there for you in that regard. -[4854.46 --> 4855.86] To help us facilitate that, -[4855.90 --> 4857.74] we're going to have the first group come up, -[4857.82 --> 4859.44] be those who are on the worship team -[4859.44 --> 4860.78] who are serving back of house, -[4860.86 --> 4862.60] who are going to be in the back praying -[4862.60 --> 4864.00] so that we can serve them -[4864.00 --> 4867.78] and then they can serve us in their task tether. -[4867.88 --> 4870.24] So I'd like to invite those worship volunteers -[4870.24 --> 4872.84] and other leaders up to the front at this point. -[4876.24 --> 4877.24] Amen. -[4877.24 --> 4878.24] Amen. -[4878.24 --> 4878.66] Amen. -[4878.66 --> 4878.74] Amen. -[4878.74 --> 4879.24] Amen. -[4879.24 --> 4879.74] Amen. -[4879.74 --> 4880.24] Amen. -[4900.24 --> 4902.02] The body of Christ given for you. -[4904.24 --> 4905.86] The body of Christ given for you. -[4905.86 --> 4926.66] The body of Christ given for you. -[4926.66 --> 4935.02] The body of Christ given for you. -[4935.02 --> 4945.62] eat and remember. -[4959.62 --> 4961.20] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[4963.16 --> 4964.70] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[4965.02 --> 4972.18] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[4973.62 --> 4974.94] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[4974.94 --> 4998.10] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[4998.10 --> 5006.50] Drink and believe. -[5006.50 --> 5014.10] Amen. -[5014.10 --> 5023.70] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[5023.70 --> 5053.68] Thank you. -[5053.70 --> 5083.68] Thank you. -[5083.70 --> 5113.68] Thank you. -[5113.70 --> 5115.70] Thank you. -[5143.70 --> 5145.70] Thank you. -[5173.70 --> 5175.70] Thank you. -[5203.70 --> 5205.70] Thank you. -[5233.70 --> 5247.70] Here I am to worship, here I am to bow down, here I am to say that you're my call. -[5247.70 --> 5260.70] You're altogether lovely, altogether worthy, altogether wonderful to me. -[5260.70 --> 5262.70] Thank you. -[5262.70 --> 5264.70] Thank you. -[5264.70 --> 5266.70] Thank you. -[5266.70 --> 5268.70] Thank you. -[5268.70 --> 5270.70] Thank you. -[5270.70 --> 5272.70] Thank you. -[5272.70 --> 5274.70] Thank you. -[5274.70 --> 5276.70] Thank you. -[5276.70 --> 5278.70] Thank you. -[5278.70 --> 5280.70] Thank you. -[5280.70 --> 5282.70] Thank you. -[5282.70 --> 5284.70] Thank you. -[5284.70 --> 5286.70] Thank you. -[5286.70 --> 5288.70] All of you. -[5288.86 --> 5291.04] Thank you. -[5294.70 --> 5296.70] Thank you. -[5296.70 --> 5298.70] Thank you. -[5298.70 --> 5300.70] That is a question and thats end. -[5300.70 --> 5306.50] Here I am to say that you're my God. -[5306.50 --> 5319.26] You're altogether lovely, altogether worthy, altogether wonderful to me. -[5319.26 --> 5332.44] And I'll never know how much it costs to see my sin upon that cross. -[5332.82 --> 5344.84] And I'll never know how much it costs to see my sin upon that cross. -[5344.84 --> 5350.00] Here I am to worship. -[5350.66 --> 5353.70] Here I am to bow down. -[5354.14 --> 5359.72] Here I am to say that you're my God. -[5360.34 --> 5371.90] You're altogether lovely, altogether worthy, altogether wonderful to me. -[5371.90 --> 5375.90] Here I am to worship. -[5376.46 --> 5379.34] Here I am to bow down. -[5379.62 --> 5384.66] Here I am to say that you're my God. -[5384.66 --> 5390.72] You're altogether lovely, altogether wonderful to me. -[5390.72 --> 5396.28] Here I am. -[5396.28 --> 5401.30] Here I am. -[5401.30 --> 5402.30] Amen. -[5431.30 --> 5433.30] Amen. -[5461.30 --> 5463.30] Amen. -[5491.30 --> 5493.30] Amen. -[5521.30 --> 5523.30] Amen. -[5551.30 --> 5553.30] Amen. -[5581.30 --> 5583.30] Amen. -[5611.30 --> 5612.30] Amen. -[5641.30 --> 5643.30] Amen. -[5671.30 --> 5672.30] Amen. -[5701.30 --> 5704.30] Amen. -[5712.30 --> 5714.30] Mhm. -[5714.30 --> 5728.30] I -[5728.30 --> 5740.10] come, I confess, bowing here, I find my rest. -[5740.10 --> 5746.40] And without you, I fall apart. -[5746.70 --> 5753.60] You're the one that guides my heart. -[5755.20 --> 5762.60] Lord, I need you. Oh, I need you. -[5762.60 --> 5768.74] Every hour I need you. -[5768.74 --> 5774.60] My one defense, my righteousness. -[5775.40 --> 5779.54] Oh God, how I need you. -[5779.54 --> 5789.74] Where sin runs deep, your grace is more. -[5789.74 --> 5795.90] Where grace is found is where you are. -[5795.90 --> 5801.76] Where you are, Lord, I am free. -[5802.76 --> 5808.10] Holiness is Christ in me. -[5808.10 --> 5813.96] Where you are, Lord, I am free. -[5813.96 --> 5821.30] Holiness is Christ in me. -[5821.30 --> 5829.56] Lord, I need you. Oh, I need you. -[5829.56 --> 5835.42] Every hour I need you. -[5835.42 --> 5841.28] My one defense, my righteousness. -[5841.28 --> 5847.14] Oh, Lord, how I need you. -[5847.14 --> 5853.00] Jesus, you're my hope and stay. -[5853.00 --> 5856.86] When temptation comes my way. -[5856.86 --> 5861.80] And when I cannot stand, I'll fall on you. -[5863.80 --> 5867.00] Jesus, you're my hope and stay. -[5867.00 --> 5872.86] And when I cannot stand, I'll fall on you. -[5872.86 --> 5877.36] Jesus, you're my hope and stay. -[5877.36 --> 5883.22] Lord, I need you. -[5883.22 --> 5887.22] Oh, I need you. -[5887.22 --> 5892.90] Every hour I need you. -[5892.90 --> 5898.50] My one defense, my righteousness. -[5898.50 --> 5928.48] Oh, God, how I need you. -[5928.50 --> 5935.96] My one defense, my righteousness. -[5935.96 --> 5941.82] Oh, God, how I need you. -[5943.04 --> 5944.40] Let's do Jesus Messiah. -[5958.50 --> 5961.30] Let's go. -[5961.44 --> 5963.56] Amen. -[5965.40 --> 5966.24] Amen. -[5966.24 --> 5967.64] Amen. -[5967.64 --> 5968.08] Amen. -[5968.08 --> 5968.46] Amen. -[5968.46 --> 5976.52] Amen. -[5977.36 --> 5977.64] Amen. -[5977.64 --> 5978.38] Amen. -[5978.38 --> 5980.36] Amen. -[5981.40 --> 5982.60] Amen. -[5983.02 --> 5983.58] Amen. -[5984.24 --> 5984.72] Amen. -[5984.72 --> 5985.58] Amen. -[5985.58 --> 5986.38] Amen. -[5986.38 --> 5987.24] Amen. -[5987.24 --> 5987.58] Amen. -[5987.58 --> 5993.34] He became sin -[5993.34 --> 5996.08] Who knew no sin -[5996.08 --> 5998.84] That we might become -[5998.84 --> 6000.84] His righteousness -[6000.84 --> 6003.84] He humbled himself -[6003.84 --> 6007.84] And carried the cross -[6007.84 --> 6011.94] Love so amazing -[6011.94 --> 6017.48] Love so amazing -[6017.48 --> 6023.12] Jesus Messiah -[6023.12 --> 6031.02] Name above all names -[6031.02 --> 6034.66] Blessed Redeemer -[6034.66 --> 6038.26] Emmanuel -[6038.26 --> 6045.08] The rescue for sinners -[6045.08 --> 6050.72] The ransom from heaven -[6050.72 --> 6056.36] Jesus Messiah -[6056.36 --> 6062.00] Lord of all -[6062.00 --> 6067.42] His body the breath -[6067.42 --> 6070.26] His blood the wine -[6070.26 --> 6073.20] Broken and poured out -[6073.20 --> 6075.00] All for love -[6075.00 --> 6077.64] The whole earth trampled -[6077.64 --> 6078.36] The whole earth trampled -[6078.36 --> 6080.64] And the veil was torn -[6080.64 --> 6086.28] Love so amazing -[6086.28 --> 6087.28] Love so amazing -[6087.28 --> 6091.28] Love so amazing -[6091.28 --> 6097.28] Jesus Messiah -[6097.28 --> 6102.92] Name above all things -[6102.92 --> 6106.56] Blessed Redeemer -[6106.56 --> 6108.56] The rescue for sinners -[6108.56 --> 6123.56] The ransom from heaven -[6123.56 --> 6129.20] Jesus Messiah -[6129.20 --> 6133.20] Lord of all -[6133.20 --> 6141.20] All our hope is in you -[6141.20 --> 6146.84] All our hope is in you -[6146.84 --> 6152.20] All the glory to you -[6152.20 --> 6153.26] God -[6153.26 --> 6159.84] The light of the world -[6159.84 --> 6165.48] Jesus Messiah -[6165.48 --> 6166.48] Jesus Messiah -[6166.48 --> 6170.48] Name above all names -[6170.48 --> 6172.12] Blessed Redeemer -[6172.12 --> 6174.12] Blessed Redeemer -[6174.12 --> 6176.12] Blessed Redeemer -[6176.12 --> 6181.76] Emmanuel -[6181.76 --> 6182.76] The rescue for sinners -[6182.76 --> 6184.76] The rescue for sinners -[6184.76 --> 6186.76] The ransom from heaven -[6186.76 --> 6188.76] Jesus Messiah -[6188.76 --> 6191.36] Jesus Messiah -[6208.52 --> 6209.62] Lord of all -[6209.62 --> 6211.82] Jesus Messiah -[6211.82 --> 6212.98] Lord of all -[6212.98 --> 6213.42] Lord of all -[6213.42 --> 6225.92] As you go this week, -[6226.20 --> 6230.92] please know that you are not simply dismissed from this service, -[6231.48 --> 6235.58] but you are sent out in the power of Jesus' name, -[6235.58 --> 6240.00] filled with the Holy Spirit to serve our God. -[6240.90 --> 6243.20] And so know that he goes with you. -[6244.04 --> 6246.38] Receive his blessing. -[6248.62 --> 6250.74] God, go before you to lead you. -[6251.40 --> 6253.56] God, go behind you to protect you. -[6254.18 --> 6256.04] God, go beneath you to support you. -[6256.12 --> 6258.58] And God, go beside you to befriend you. -[6259.14 --> 6261.26] Do not be afraid. -[6262.20 --> 6264.12] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[6264.12 --> 6270.30] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[6271.32 --> 6271.78] Amen. -[6273.42 --> 6294.46] Now unto the King eternal -[6294.46 --> 6301.34] Unto the King immortal -[6301.34 --> 6308.26] Unto the King invisible -[6308.26 --> 6315.14] The only wise God -[6315.14 --> 6322.02] The only wise God -[6322.02 --> 6328.90] Now unto the King eternal -[6328.90 --> 6335.78] The only wise God -[6335.78 --> 6342.66] The only wise God -[6342.66 --> 6344.66] The only wise God -[6344.66 --> 6351.54] The only wise God -[6351.54 --> 6355.54] The only wise God -[6355.54 --> 6357.54] The only wise God -[6357.54 --> 6358.46] Alty yeah -[6358.46 --> 6358.88] Come on -[6358.88 --> 6359.42] Avatar -[6359.42 --> 6360.30] To all -[6360.30 --> 6363.42] O -[6363.42 --> 6364.42] Up to the King -[6364.42 --> 6368.66] be glory and honor -[6368.66 --> 6372.62] up to the king forever -[6372.62 --> 6377.78] up to the king -[6377.78 --> 6382.20] be glory and honor forever -[6382.20 --> 6390.88] and ever -[6390.88 --> 6396.54] amen -[6396.54 --> 6401.44] amen -[6401.44 --> 6405.32] amen -[6405.32 --> 6408.02] amen -[6420.88 --> 6450.86] Thank you. -[6450.88 --> 6480.86] Thank you. -[6480.88 --> 6510.86] Thank you. -[6510.88 --> 6540.86] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, January 14, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, January 14, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index fd26c4798e73fb057e72f3bc8c87fcb2893cda0e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, January 14, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,159 +0,0 @@ -• Doubts and uncertainty about one's own worth -• Importance of believing in oneself despite feelings of weakness -• Assurance of love and support from someone else, even when feeling unlovable or weak -• Praise and affirmation of being strong and loved despite shortcomings -• Desire to sing and express love and devotion forever -• Emphasis on the power of belief and faith in one's worth -• Introduction and welcome by Pastor Chris -• Announcements: - + Youth coffee is after service today at Paul and Leslie Kuhl's house - + Women's Ministry retreat invitation: March 8-10 at Camp Kakawa in Hope, $185 for the weekend - + Deadline to register and pay for retreat: February 8th and 16th respectively - + Worship gathering on January 28th at 6pm: "Worship Through the Decades" -• Opening worship and call to praise -• Worship songs: "Tongue Rejoice", "One Heart, One Voice", "O Church of Christ, Rejoice" -• Invitations to worship: Come, people of the risen King; come, young and old from every land -• Praise to God: Holy, holy, Lord God Almighty; all in three persons, blessed Trinity -• Adoration: Cherubim and seraphim falling down before Thee; casting down their golden crowns -• Attributes of God: Only Thou art holy; perfect in power, love, and purity -• Affirmations of God's sovereignty: I bow before Thee, King of glory; none beside Thee; my God forever -• Prayer of confession -• Romans chapter 6, verse 8 to 11: assurance of life with Christ after death -• Song "When I Fear My Faith Will Fail" (repeated multiple times) -• Song "Gracious Redeemer" -• Reflections on God's mercy and love -• Reframe Ministries' reach and audience through various media platforms -• Ministry programs for family life, Christian living, and church resources -• The Today devotional booklet and its availability in multiple formats -• God's attributes and sovereignty as expressed in Psalm 139 -• Story of the Three Little Pigs discussed with children -• The story of the three little pigs has an alternative ending where the wolf is taught to make his own soup instead of blowing down the house -• This alternative ending represents a better way to resolve conflicts peacefully -• The story can be compared to the kingdom Jesus wanted to bring, which was different from what people expected -• The speaker wants to lead the church family prayer and mentions personal and church news -• The congregation welcomes a new granddaughter, Charlotte Beth -• Multiple members of the community have passed away, including Jacob Prins, Ebel Campen, Hank Van Eyck, and Helen Van Vergeyck's mom -• Emmett was in the hospital but is now home and doing well -• Jerry Jansen's granddaughter has lupus and needs prayer -• The congregation prays for peace and stability in unstable areas of the world -• They ask God to bring solutions to issues like homelessness, drug addiction, and poverty in their country -• They pray for strength and healing for those dealing with loss and grief -• They are thankful for new births, including Charlotte and Emmett's return home from the hospital -• They pray for families in need of wisdom and guidance as parents -• They ask God to encourage them to focus on Him through prayer and devotion. -• Reading Psalm 139 together -• God's all-knowing nature and ability to see into one's heart -• The impossibility of hiding from God or keeping thoughts and feelings secret -• A personal story about a three-year-old girl who hid under a plastic tote, illustrating how people often try to hide their true selves from God but are seen by Him anyway -• Choosing to view the truth that God sees all as terrifying or anxiety-inducing versus finding peace and comfort in it -• God knows everything about the speaker -• God has perfect and intimate knowledge of the speaker -• God sees and knows everything from a transcendent vantage point, outside of time and space -• This knowledge is specific and particular to each individual, including their thoughts, desires, actions, and words -• God's knowledge is not just general knowledge of the world, but a deep understanding of each person's life, past, present, and future -• God knows everything instantly and effortlessly. -• Human anxiety is often caused by the unknown or things we can't control. -• God's knowledge and awareness are not limited by human assumptions or emotions. -• The idea of being fully known and understood by God can be terrifying, but also freeing. -• God's knowledge of all things is related to his transcendence -• Transcendence means God is wholly other and above the world, not physically located in it -• God's existence and being are independent of human existence -• The transcendent nature of God makes Psalm 139 beautiful and compelling because God knows everything about us and is everywhere with us -• The transcendent nature of God -• God's imminence and presence everywhere, even in darkness and absence -• God's omniscience and ability to see all things -• The comfort and peace that comes from knowing God's transcendence and imminence -• God's knowledge and creation of each person, specifically referencing the speaker's own being -• The speaker explains that God knows everything about a person's life and has a plan for it. -• Seeing God at work in one's life gives clarity of mind, purpose, and identity. -• Recognizing God's presence and plan allows believers to understand their humanity and be fully alive to His glory. -• Believers are made in God's image and should praise Him because they are fearfully and wonderfully made. -• Thoughts of God about believers -• Relationship between thoughts of God and identity of believers -• Significance of being the object of God's love and affection -• Gift of salvation and its impact on believer's perspective -• Praise and comfort that come from recognizing God's thoughts about them -• Connection between God's presence, knowledge, and comfort in dark circumstances -• God's word reveals the truth about who God is and who we are in relationship to him. -• God knows everything about us and is everywhere with us, bringing comfort and peace. -• Psalm 139, particularly verses 13-14, are often highlighted as favorites but the entire psalm is ignored or overlooked. -• The final section of Psalm 139 has a tone that seems to shift but may actually be a logical consequence of God's all-knowing nature. -• Atrocities committed and the realities of sin and darkness -• God's character and justice -• Dealing with sin and darkness on the cross or judgment day -• Question of who will deal with sin: Jesus or God directly at judgment -• Gospel as truth standing apart from other news sources -• The gospel of Jesus Christ offers a perfect exchange where God sees the life Jesus lived through faith -• This perfect righteousness is counted as yours, despite your own brokenness and sin -• When you are united with Jesus' perfection by faith, God sees only his righteousness in you -• Your imperfections and sinful nature are given over to Christ on the cross for punishment -• Through this gospel, you can experience comfort and peace, knowing God's thoughts towards you are precious and wonderful -• Jesus shows love to those who know Him -• The gospel brings comfort and peace because God is present with us -• Our response to God's love matters -• We should flee from what God abhors -• God wants us to search our hearts, test them, and lead us in the right way. -• Worship starts in a pleasing aroma to the Lord and continues for 6 days -• God sees everything about us, but loves us by his grace -• God is everywhere with us and will never leave or forsake us -• Everyone will be dealt with on that day to come, either on the cross or not -• The message is meant for comfort and peace -• The speaker is praying to God, asking for truth and guidance -• The speaker asks God to make the truth real and compelling in their minds today -• The speaker requests that God see them and go with them, helping them to live out of the truth and reality they have created -• The speaker asks God to console, encourage, and fill them up with power and send them out in His name and through the gospel of Jesus Christ -• Coming together as a church family -• Recognizing ongoing darkness in one's heart -• Requesting encouragement from God to give up remaining parts of the heart to Him -• Receiving grace and encouragement through Jesus Christ and His word -• Participating in worship together with liturgy and spoken words -• Time-stamping of a prayer or liturgical reading -• References to God, Jesus Christ, and the Lord -• Gratitude for creation, the image of God in humans, and covenant with humanity -• Acknowledgment of sin and thanksgiving for redemption through Jesus Christ -• Reference to resurrection and everlasting life -• Prayer or blessing -• Mention of a memorial or sacrifice -• The Lord's Supper is a symbolic act -• Bread and cup are used to represent the body and blood of Christ -• Participants proclaim the Lord's death, resurrection, and coming again -• Faith, death, resurrection, and coming are mysteries of the Christian faith -• Glory and hope are offered through Jesus Christ -• The church is a family gathered around the Lord's table -• The invitation to participate in the Lord's Supper -• Jesus' presence and role in the sacrament -• The distinction between those who have been to the table before and those who are new -• The inclusion of online participants -• The significance of the gifts of God being offered at the feast -• Instructions for participating in the Lord's Supper, including gathering in groups and passing elements to one another -• Indication of time to come to the front -• Availability of gluten-free bread and juice -• Request for the Lord's Supper -• Instructions for receiving the elements at one's seat -• Invitation to pass the body of Christ to others -• Invitation to receive the juice from the first table -• Meeting with people at the back -• Invitation to receive prayer before or after meeting at the table -• Volunteer service and leading song during meeting -• Invocations of "Amen" throughout the transcript -• References to gratitude and praise, including lyrics from a hymn about God's grace. -• Reflections of devotion to God, emphasizing the value of putting one's heart where their treasure is -• Praise for the glory and majesty of Jesus Christ as Heaven's King -• Gratitude for being chosen in Christ and raised to life through grace -• Acknowledgment that human efforts are insufficient to save a guilty soul -• Recognition of God's power and love, which alone can erase sin and give peace with God -• Expression of dependence on Jesus Christ as the source of strength and salvation -• Testimony to the sacrifice and love of Jesus, who paid for our sins and gave His life -• Assurance that through faith in Christ, we are forgiven and loved by God. -• Christ's perfection and righteousness -• Relationship with God through Jesus Christ -• Significance of the cross and Christ's sacrifice -• Forgiveness and freedom from sin through Christ -• Peace, comfort, and presence of God -• Invitation to fellowship, prayer, and connection with others after service -• The love of Christ -• Seeking to win the prize and finding His death to be life -• Going in the love of Father God, grace of Christ, and power of the Spirit -• Bringing glory to Him with one's life -• Showing His heart to bless others and being a light of Christ -• Hope in the cross \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, January 14, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, January 14, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d1ec756e5ca2d2ccf8b921ab9bc123fe7865d792..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, January 14, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3224 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 9.00] Every single light it tells me I will never measure love -[13.00 --> 21.00] Am I more than just the sum of every high and every low? -[21.00 --> 26.00] I'm not sure what I'm doing -[26.00 --> 35.00] Remind me once again just who I am because I need to know -[36.00 --> 44.00] You say I'm loved when I can't feel a thing -[44.00 --> 50.00] You say I'm strong when I think I'm weak -[51.00 --> 56.00] And you say I'm held when I am falling short -[57.00 --> 63.00] And when I don't belong, oh, you say I'm yours -[63.00 --> 69.00] And I believe, oh, I believe -[70.00 --> 76.00] What you say of me, I believe -[77.00 --> 86.00] The only thing that matters now is everything you think of me -[86.00 --> 93.00] And I believe, oh, you say I'm loved when I can't feel a thing -[94.00 --> 100.00] You say I'm strong when I think I'm weak -[101.00 --> 107.00] You say I'm strong when I think I'm weak -[107.00 --> 108.50] I can't feel a thing. -[109.50 --> 115.14] You say I am strong when I think I am weak. -[115.80 --> 121.80] And you say I am held when I am falling short. -[122.48 --> 124.38] When I don't belong. -[125.48 --> 128.20] Oh, you say I am yours. -[129.52 --> 131.40] And I believe. -[131.62 --> 131.96] I. -[132.70 --> 134.22] Oh, I believe. -[134.22 --> 135.36] I. -[135.36 --> 138.66] What you say of me. -[139.14 --> 141.54] Oh, I believe. -[141.96 --> 143.12] You can see Ooooh. -[143.12 --> 146.04] telefon attacks in terms of what you said of me. -[146.88 --> 151.34] Taking all I had it on and leave me. -[151.78 --> 154.90] And you'll be low. -[154.90 --> 162.82] You have every failure, God. -[162.82 --> 166.24] You have every victory. -[170.24 --> 176.74] You say I am loved when I can't feel a thing. -[177.56 --> 183.22] You say I am strong when I think I am weak. -[183.22 --> 189.80] You say I am held when I am falling short. -[190.56 --> 196.44] When I don't belong, oh, you say I am yours. -[197.48 --> 206.18] And I believe, oh, I believe what you say of me. -[206.18 --> 212.52] I believe, oh, I believe. -[212.52 --> 219.60] Yes, I believe what you say of me. -[219.60 --> 221.94] I believe, oh, I believe. -[221.94 --> 222.94] I believe. -[222.94 --> 225.28] I believe, oh, I believe. -[225.28 --> 230.28] I believe, oh, I believe. -[230.28 --> 245.62] I believe, oh, I believe. -[245.62 --> 247.96] I believe, oh, I believe. -[247.96 --> 248.96] I believe. -[248.96 --> 252.96] I believe, oh, I believe. -[252.96 --> 259.30] I believe, oh, I believe. -[259.30 --> 267.64] I believe. -[268.02 --> 271.64] Oh, I believe. -[271.64 --> 273.64] Do it or anything. -[294.64 --> 296.64] Woo- sheep! -[301.64 --> 307.64] I keep setting up your love forever -[309.64 --> 310.64] I'm never -[314.64 --> 317.64] I'm never -[322.64 --> 324.64] All the mountains on the sea -[325.64 --> 327.64] The river runs with a light for me -[327.64 --> 330.64] And I will open up my heart -[330.64 --> 332.64] I'll never heal us and breathe -[332.64 --> 335.64] I'm happy to be in the truth -[335.64 --> 338.64] And I will tell you my hands -[338.64 --> 340.64] For I will always sing -[340.64 --> 343.64] And when your love can die -[343.64 --> 348.64] I could sing of your love forever -[348.64 --> 354.64] I could sing of your love forever -[354.64 --> 357.64] quarterback -[357.64 --> 358.64] To Charlotte -[359.64 --> 361.64] I can sing of your love forever -[361.64 --> 363.64] I could sing of your love forever -[364.64 --> 368.64] I could sing of your love forever -[368.64 --> 371.64] I could sing of your love forever -[371.64 --> 373.64] I could sing of your love forever -[373.64 --> 378.64] But I believe I could sing of your love -[378.64 --> 384.64] So I wish I could sing of your love -[384.64 --> 391.64] Oh, I feel like dancing, yeah, yeah -[391.64 --> 394.64] It's foolishness, I know -[394.64 --> 399.64] But when the world is in night -[399.64 --> 406.64] They will dance with joy like we're dancing now -[406.64 --> 409.64] I can sing of your love -[409.64 --> 412.64] I can sing of your love -[412.64 --> 417.64] I can sing of your love forever -[417.64 --> 420.64] I can sing of your love -[420.64 --> 427.64] I can sing of your love forever -[427.64 --> 432.64] I will sing of your love forever -[432.64 --> 436.64] I can sing of your love forever -[436.64 --> 439.64] I lift the hands of the praise of all my name -[439.64 --> 444.64] I will sing of your love forever -[444.64 --> 449.64] I will sing of your love -[449.64 --> 454.64] I will sing of your love forever -[454.64 --> 458.64] I can sing of your love forever -[458.64 --> 462.64] I can sing of your love forever -[462.64 --> 465.64] I will sing of your love forever -[465.64 --> 471.64] I will sing of your love forever -[471.64 --> 473.64] I will sing of your love forever -[473.64 --> 475.64] I can sing of your love forever -[475.64 --> 477.64] I can sing of your love forever -[477.64 --> 479.64] I will sing of your love forever -[479.64 --> 484.64] I can sing under love forever. -[485.64 --> 489.64] I can sing under love forever. -[491.64 --> 495.64] I can sing under love forever. -[509.64 --> 512.64] I can sing under love forever. -[513.64 --> 515.64] She's being lost. -[539.64 --> 541.64] Good morning. -[541.64 --> 542.64] Good morning. -[542.64 --> 548.64] I know it's cold and I know we're a small group this morning, but I'm sure you can do better than that. -[548.64 --> 550.64] Maybe it's not my fault. -[552.64 --> 554.64] How about now? -[554.64 --> 555.64] There we go. -[555.64 --> 560.64] Okay, my apologies for assuming it was your fault and not mine. -[561.64 --> 562.64] Good morning. -[563.64 --> 564.64] Wonderful. -[564.64 --> 570.64] Thank you for coming together and joining with us to worship God this morning. -[570.64 --> 571.64] My name is Chris. -[571.64 --> 574.64] I'm one of the pastors here at Langley Manual. -[574.64 --> 579.64] If you're a guest with us, we are particularly glad that you are here and we would love to connect with you. -[580.64 --> 582.64] You can find me after the service. -[582.64 --> 588.64] I'll be at the back near the Connect booth, which is that table back there that has the big sign on it that says Connect. -[589.64 --> 591.64] Someone asked me the other day, what's the Connect booth? -[591.64 --> 594.64] I thought it was self-explanatory. -[594.64 --> 596.64] Apparently, we have to explain more. -[597.64 --> 598.64] It's that table back there. -[598.64 --> 599.64] You can find me there. -[600.64 --> 601.64] We have a couple announcements before we begin. -[602.64 --> 603.64] Leanne, why don't you start walking up? -[605.64 --> 608.64] Leanne is going to make an announcement on behalf of Women's Ministry. -[609.64 --> 612.64] While she's making her way over there, I just wanted to remind you. -[613.64 --> 614.64] Over there is a microphone. Thank you. -[615.64 --> 618.64] For youth, youth coffee is today after service. -[619.64 --> 620.64] I lied. -[620.64 --> 621.64] He's bringing it to you. -[622.64 --> 623.64] We're piecing it together. -[624.64 --> 625.64] New year, new problems. -[626.64 --> 628.64] Youth coffee is after service today. -[629.64 --> 632.64] That's for those of you involved in our youth program. -[633.64 --> 635.64] That's happening at Paul and Leslie Kuhl's house. -[636.64 --> 637.64] Paul and Leslie Kuhl, there they are. -[638.64 --> 642.64] If you have any questions, you can talk to them or Pastor Kevin and he will get you directions for that. -[642.64 --> 646.64] That's after service this morning for lunch and hanging out together. -[647.64 --> 648.64] Go ahead. -[648.64 --> 651.64] Good morning. As Chris said, this is on behalf of the Women's Ministry. -[651.64 --> 655.64] We want to invite the women of our church to join us at a women's retreat. -[655.64 --> 659.64] We'll be having a retreat March 8th to 10th at Camp Kakawa in Hope. -[660.64 --> 663.64] The cost will be $185 for the weekend. -[664.64 --> 666.64] If you have questions, thank you for mentioning the Connect booth. -[667.64 --> 669.64] You can come speak to any of us at the back Connect counter. -[669.64 --> 671.64] If you'd like to register, same thing, meet us over there. -[672.64 --> 675.64] You can register there or you can follow the link that is in the bulletin. -[676.64 --> 680.64] Once you have done that initial registration, we'll send you out a full registration package. -[681.64 --> 684.64] The deadline to register will be February 8th. -[685.64 --> 687.64] The deadline to pay will be February 16th. -[688.64 --> 690.64] If you have questions, please come see us at the Connect booth. -[690.64 --> 691.64] We hope to see you at the retreat though. -[695.64 --> 697.64] And one last announcement. -[697.64 --> 702.64] If you were here, you may have seen it on the scrolling announcements before service. -[703.64 --> 708.64] But on January 28th at 6pm, so that's Sunday night, 6pm, -[709.64 --> 711.64] we're hosting another worship gathering. -[712.64 --> 715.64] We have been gathering in the evenings to sing praise to God -[716.64 --> 718.64] and we've been doing that through particular themes. -[719.64 --> 723.64] January 28th, we are hosting what is being called Worship Through the Decades. -[723.64 --> 736.64] And so starting in the 70s and up until present, we will sing some of your favorites and remembered worship songs through those eras. -[736.64 --> 738.64] And so we encourage you to block that out. -[739.64 --> 740.64] Keep that on your calendar. -[740.64 --> 743.64] Save the date and join us January 28th at 6pm. -[743.64 --> 744.64] I think that's it for announcements. -[744.64 --> 752.64] And so if you are able and where you are, please stand and we'll receive God's greeting together. -[752.64 --> 764.64] Following God's greeting, you are invited to turn to those around you and welcome them into worship. -[764.64 --> 772.64] As we are in cold and flu season, just be mindful that sometimes a head nod is okay and words are always welcome. -[773.64 --> 775.64] So, receive the greeting of our God. -[776.64 --> 784.64] Grace, mercy and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[785.64 --> 787.64] All God's people said, Amen. -[787.64 --> 800.64] P -[800.64 --> 802.64] 's -[817.64 --> 826.84] God calls us all to worship him this morning with the words of Psalm 107. -[827.18 --> 829.44] He sent out his word and healed them. -[829.54 --> 831.14] He rescued them from the grave. -[831.62 --> 834.60] Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love -[834.60 --> 837.96] and let his wonderful deeds for all mankind. -[837.96 --> 843.86] Let them sacrifice, thank offerings, and tell of his works with songs of joy. -[847.64 --> 870.26] Come, people of the risen King, who delight to bring him praise. -[870.26 --> 878.68] Come all and tune your hearts to sing to the morning star of grace. -[878.88 --> 886.26] From the shifting shadows of the earth we will lift our eyes to him. -[887.60 --> 895.14] Where steady arms of mercy reach to gather children in. -[895.14 --> 904.28] Rejoice, rejoice, let every tongue rejoice. -[904.66 --> 908.14] One heart, one voice. -[908.92 --> 911.90] O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[911.90 --> 918.90] Come, people of the risen King, who delight to bring him praise. -[918.90 --> 927.10] Come, those whose joy is morning sun and those weeping through the night. -[927.10 --> 935.68] Come, those who tell the battle's fall and those struggling in the fight. -[935.68 --> 965.66] Come, those who tell the Lord, who delight to bring him praise. -[965.66 --> 969.66] O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[969.66 --> 970.66] O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[970.66 --> 972.66] O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[972.66 --> 983.66] Come, young and old from every land and in the land of the faith. -[983.66 --> 992.66] Come, those with full or empty hands find the riches of his grace. -[992.66 --> 996.66] Over all the world, his people sing. -[996.66 --> 1000.66] Short to shore, we hear them call. -[1000.66 --> 1005.66] The truth that cries through every age. -[1005.66 --> 1009.66] Our God is all in all. -[1009.66 --> 1011.66] Rejoice, rejoice, rejoice. -[1011.66 --> 1013.66] Rejoice, rejoice. -[1013.66 --> 1014.66] Rejoice, rejoice. -[1014.66 --> 1017.66] Let every tongue rejoice. -[1017.66 --> 1021.66] One heart, one voice. -[1021.66 --> 1024.66] O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[1024.66 --> 1025.66] Rejoice, rejoice. -[1025.66 --> 1030.66] Rejoice, rejoice. -[1030.66 --> 1031.66] Let every tongue rejoice. -[1031.66 --> 1034.66] Let every tongue rejoice. -[1034.66 --> 1038.66] One heart, one voice. -[1038.66 --> 1043.66] O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[1043.66 --> 1044.66] O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[1044.66 --> 1047.66] O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[1047.66 --> 1049.66] O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[1049.66 --> 1050.66] Amen. -[1079.66 --> 1107.98] Holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee. -[1109.66 --> 1138.92] Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty, all in three persons, blessed Trinity. -[1139.66 --> 1161.66] Holy, holy, holy, all the saints adore Thee. -[1161.66 --> 1176.66] Casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea. -[1176.66 --> 1192.66] Cherubim and seraphim, falling down before Thee. -[1192.66 --> 1207.66] Who words and heart and evermore shall be. -[1207.66 --> 1223.66] Holy, holy, holy, though the darkness blind Thee. -[1223.66 --> 1237.66] Though Thee I may find myself, Thy glory may not see. -[1237.66 --> 1253.66] Only Thou art holy, there is none beside Thee. -[1253.66 --> 1266.88] Perfect in power, in love and purity. -[1266.88 --> 1267.88] Amen. -[1267.88 --> 1268.88] In love and purity. -[1268.88 --> 1269.88] Amen. -[1269.88 --> 1271.88] God Almighty has a world meanwhile to the이식 of the Michael song. -[1271.88 --> 1272.88] Amen. -[1272.88 --> 1301.88] I bow before Thee -[1302.88 --> 1312.08] King of glory, holy are You, Lord -[1312.08 --> 1316.88] None beside Thee -[1317.88 --> 1323.88] Perfect in power -[1323.88 --> 1330.88] My God forever -[1330.88 --> 1340.88] You were and o'er and You will be -[1340.88 --> 1345.88] I bow before Thee -[1345.88 --> 1355.88] King of glory, holy are You, Lord -[1355.88 --> 1360.88] None beside Thee -[1360.88 --> 1366.88] Perfect in power -[1366.88 --> 1373.88] My God forever -[1373.88 --> 1381.88] You were and are and You will be -[1381.88 --> 1388.88] You will be -[1388.88 --> 1397.88] Holy, holy, holy -[1397.88 --> 1403.88] Lord God Almighty -[1403.88 --> 1407.88] All Thy works -[1407.88 --> 1411.88] Shall praise Thy name -[1411.88 --> 1417.88] In earth and sky and sea -[1417.88 --> 1425.88] Holy, holy, holy -[1425.88 --> 1427.88] God in three persons -[1427.88 --> 1431.88] Blessed Trinity -[1431.88 --> 1435.88] I stand before Thee -[1435.88 --> 1445.88] I stand before Thee -[1445.88 --> 1452.88] I stand before Thee -[1452.88 --> 1460.88] King of glory, holy are You, Lord -[1460.88 --> 1462.88] None beside Thee -[1462.88 --> 1463.88] None beside Thee -[1463.88 --> 1465.88] None beside Thee -[1465.88 --> 1470.88] Perfect in power -[1470.88 --> 1473.88] My God -[1473.88 --> 1477.88] My God forever -[1477.88 --> 1478.88] My God forever -[1478.88 --> 1479.88] My God forever -[1479.88 --> 1485.88] You were and are and You will be -[1485.88 --> 1486.88] I stand before Thee -[1486.88 --> 1487.88] And You will be -[1487.88 --> 1488.88] I stand before Thee -[1488.88 --> 1492.88] I stand before Thee -[1492.88 --> 1497.88] King of glory -[1497.88 --> 1499.88] King of glory -[1499.88 --> 1500.88] King of glory -[1500.88 --> 1502.88] Holy are You, Lord -[1502.88 --> 1503.88] Holy are You, Lord -[1503.88 --> 1505.88] None beside Thee -[1505.88 --> 1506.88] King of glory -[1506.88 --> 1507.88] Holy are You, Lord -[1507.88 --> 1509.88] None beside Thee -[1509.88 --> 1510.88] I stand before Thee -[1510.88 --> 1511.88] King of glory -[1511.88 --> 1514.88] Perfect in power -[1514.88 --> 1516.88] My God forever -[1516.88 --> 1522.88] My God forever -[1522.88 --> 1525.88] You were and are and You will be -[1525.88 --> 1534.88] You were and are and You will be -[1534.88 --> 1553.88] You were and are and You will be -[1553.88 --> 1561.88] You may have a seat. -[1561.88 --> 1563.88] Please join me in our prayer of confession this morning. -[1563.88 --> 1573.88] Father, we come to You this morning knowing that we enter into Your holy presence. -[1573.88 --> 1580.88] We confess all those things that we said or did this week that were not what You called us to do. -[1580.88 --> 1583.88] Have mercy on us, O God. -[1583.88 --> 1592.88] Remind us again of who You call us to be and forgive us for those times when we don't show Your love to others through our actions. -[1592.88 --> 1597.88] You are a forgiving God who delights in us. -[1597.88 --> 1602.88] Thank You for Your mercy, Your grace, and Your love. -[1602.88 --> 1604.88] Amen. -[1604.88 --> 1611.88] Our assurance comes from Romans chapter 6, verse 8 to 11. -[1611.88 --> 1616.88] Now, if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with Him. -[1616.88 --> 1622.88] For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, He cannot die again. -[1622.88 --> 1626.88] Death no longer has mastery over Him. -[1626.88 --> 1631.88] The death He died, He died to sin once for all. -[1631.88 --> 1635.88] But the life He lives, He lives to God. -[1635.88 --> 1643.88] In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus. -[1643.88 --> 1644.88] Amen. -[1644.88 --> 1645.88] Amen. -[1645.88 --> 1660.88] When I fear my faith will fail, Christ will hold me fast. -[1660.88 --> 1667.46] My faith will fail, Christ will hold me fast. -[1667.46 --> 1676.30] When the tempter would prevail, he will hold me fast. -[1676.82 --> 1685.34] I could never keep my hold through life's fearful path, -[1685.80 --> 1689.80] for my love is often cold. -[1689.80 --> 1694.78] He must hold me fast. -[1695.78 --> 1700.58] He will hold me fast. -[1700.82 --> 1704.62] He will hold me fast. -[1704.88 --> 1708.92] For my Savior loves me so. -[1710.22 --> 1714.32] He will hold me fast. -[1719.80 --> 1727.78] Those he saves are his delight. -[1728.78 --> 1731.78] Christ will hold me fast. -[1731.78 --> 1740.78] Precious in his holy sight, he will hold me fast. -[1740.78 --> 1745.76] He'll not let my soul be lost. -[1745.76 --> 1749.76] His promises shall last. -[1749.76 --> 1759.76] For by him at such a cost, he will hold me fast. -[1759.76 --> 1764.74] He will hold me fast. -[1764.74 --> 1768.74] He will hold me fast. -[1768.74 --> 1772.74] For my Savior loves me so. -[1772.74 --> 1778.74] He will hold me fast. -[1778.74 --> 1791.72] For my life he bled and died. -[1791.72 --> 1792.72] Christ will hold me fast. -[1792.72 --> 1796.70] Christ will hold me fast. -[1796.70 --> 1797.70] Christ will hold me fast. -[1797.70 --> 1798.70] Christ will hold me fast. -[1798.70 --> 1803.70] Christ will hold me fast. -[1803.70 --> 1808.70] raised with him to endless life. -[1808.70 --> 1810.70] He will hold me fast. -[1810.70 --> 1812.70] He will hold me fast. -[1812.70 --> 1819.70] Till our faith is turned to die. -[1819.70 --> 1823.70] When he comes at last. -[1823.70 --> 1827.70] He will hold me fast. -[1827.70 --> 1831.70] He will hold me fast. -[1831.70 --> 1835.70] For my Savior loves me so. -[1835.70 --> 1851.70] He will hold me fast. -[1851.70 --> 1856.70] For my Savior loves me so. -[1856.70 --> 1860.70] He will hold me fast. -[1860.70 --> 1873.70] Please join us for the next song in singing Gracious Redeemer. -[1873.70 --> 1893.70] I was lost in sin. -[1893.70 --> 1896.70] Held captive by my fear. -[1896.70 --> 1899.70] Till your mercy showed. -[1899.70 --> 1902.70] Your hand was reaching near. -[1902.70 --> 1904.70] My God you came. -[1904.70 --> 1906.70] My God you came. -[1906.70 --> 1909.70] And made a way for me. -[1909.70 --> 1914.70] You made a way for me. -[1914.70 --> 1919.70] I was lost in sin. -[1919.70 --> 1922.70] Held captive by my fear. -[1922.70 --> 1925.70] Till your mercy showed. -[1925.70 --> 1928.70] Your hand was reaching near. -[1928.70 --> 1930.70] My God you came. -[1930.70 --> 1932.70] My God you came. -[1932.70 --> 1935.70] And made a way for me. -[1935.70 --> 1938.70] You made a way for me. -[1938.70 --> 1940.70] My Jesus. -[1940.70 --> 1943.70] Gracious Redeemer and friend. -[1943.70 --> 1948.70] There's nothing like your love without end. -[1948.70 --> 1955.70] There's nothing like your love without end. -[1955.70 --> 1961.70] My hope was purchased by the blood of the Lamb. -[1961.70 --> 1969.70] My Jesus Redeemer. -[1969.70 --> 1985.70] the heart of the Lamb. -[1985.70 --> 1991.70] That made a way for me. -[1991.70 --> 2005.70] coming back again oh god you came and made a way for us you made a way for us -[2006.66 --> 2016.74] my jesus gracious redeemer and friend there's nothing like your love without end -[2016.74 --> 2030.74] my hope was purchased by the blood of the man my jesus redeemer -[2030.74 --> 2058.74] no guilt no shame no curse no chains new life you gave redeemer -[2058.74 --> 2070.74] no guilt no shame no curse no chains new life you gave redeemer -[2070.74 --> 2084.74] no guilt no shame no curse no chains new life you gave redeemer -[2084.74 --> 2098.74] my dead is -[2098.74 --> 2112.74] is -[2112.74 --> 2126.74] is -[2126.74 --> 2140.74] is -[2140.74 --> 2154.74] is -[2154.74 --> 2158.74] is -[2158.74 --> 2160.74] is -[2160.74 --> 2162.74] is -[2162.74 --> 2164.74] is -[2164.74 --> 2166.74] is -[2166.74 --> 2168.74] is -[2168.74 --> 2182.74] is -[2182.74 --> 2186.74] is -[2186.74 --> 2192.74] is -[2192.74 --> 2194.74] is -[2194.74 --> 2196.74] is -[2196.74 --> 2198.74] is -[2198.74 --> 2200.74] is -[2200.74 --> 2202.74] is -[2202.74 --> 2204.74] is -[2204.74 --> 2218.74] is -[2218.74 --> 2220.74] is -[2220.74 --> 2222.74] is -[2222.74 --> 2226.74] is -[2226.74 --> 2235.58] media to tell God's story. They engage an average of 148,000 people every day through internet and -[2235.58 --> 2241.92] social media outreach, and they have about 300,000 followers across the Twitter and Facebook pages -[2241.92 --> 2248.76] for their six ministry programs in the English language alone. These programs focus on different -[2248.76 --> 2255.12] areas, family life, Christian living and thinking, church resources, a kid's corner, and something -[2255.12 --> 2260.86] many of us are familiar with, the Today devotional booklet. This is a daily devotional that helps -[2260.86 --> 2268.14] people refresh, refocus, and renew their faith. You can get the Today in print, on the web, as a mobile -[2268.14 --> 2275.90] app, or via email. A two-minute audio version of the Today is also available. As part of their mission -[2275.90 --> 2280.50] to share the gospel, disciple believers, and strengthen the church at home and abroad, -[2280.50 --> 2287.54] Reframe Ministries have made these useful resources available for everyone in a variety of formats -[2287.54 --> 2294.38] and languages. As God has blessed us, let us give to support the telling of God's story throughout our world. -[2294.38 --> 2303.74] people hear the sea, church gladly Lopez Lopez Systemséntron with Mark -[2303.74 --> 2320.30] Catholic Ogrmond -[2320.30 --> 2329.12] O God, you search me and you know me -[2329.12 --> 2335.66] All my thoughts, my hope and to your gaze -[2335.66 --> 2342.26] When I walk or lie down, you are before me -[2342.26 --> 2349.04] Ever the maker and keeper of my days -[2349.04 --> 2354.64] You know my resting and my rising -[2354.64 --> 2362.06] You discern my purpose from afar -[2362.06 --> 2368.42] And with love everlasting you beseech me -[2368.42 --> 2374.98] In every moment of life or death you are -[2374.98 --> 2382.30] Before a word is on my tongue, Lord -[2382.30 --> 2388.00] You have known its meaning through and through -[2388.00 --> 2394.34] You are with me beyond my understanding -[2394.34 --> 2401.00] God of my present, my past and future too -[2401.00 --> 2408.32] For you created and shaped me -[2408.32 --> 2414.52] Gave me life within my mother's womb -[2414.52 --> 2421.32] For the wonder of who I am I praise you -[2421.32 --> 2427.64] Safe in your hands, all creation is renewed -[2427.64 --> 2436.58] O God, you search me and you know me -[2436.58 --> 2442.64] All my thoughts lie open to your gaze -[2442.64 --> 2449.96] When I walk or lie down, you are before me -[2449.96 --> 2457.96] Ever the maker and keeper of my days -[2457.96 --> 2479.56] If you are age three to grade four, I invite you to come and join us at the front for Kids Corner -[2479.56 --> 2484.56] And then we'll head off to our Children's Worship Time classes -[2484.56 --> 2502.14] All right, good morning everybody -[2502.14 --> 2508.88] Today I want to talk about a story that I'm hoping that you are familiar with -[2508.88 --> 2512.88] It's called The Three Little Pigs -[2512.88 --> 2514.20] Does anybody know that story? -[2514.20 --> 2515.20] Yes! -[2515.20 --> 2516.20] Yes? All right, excellent -[2516.20 --> 2518.20] And a different variation -[2518.20 --> 2521.20] Oh, well let's talk about the regular variation -[2521.20 --> 2524.20] So you don't ruin my plan here, Malachi -[2524.20 --> 2527.48] What happens in The Three Little Pigs? -[2527.48 --> 2529.40] Who are some of the characters in there? -[2529.40 --> 2531.20] It's the big, bad wolf -[2531.20 --> 2532.20] Sorry? -[2532.20 --> 2534.20] The big, bad wolf -[2534.20 --> 2536.20] Who else, Haley? -[2536.20 --> 2537.20] The Three Little Pigs -[2537.20 --> 2538.20] And The Three Little Pigs -[2538.20 --> 2540.20] Those are kind of the main ones, right? -[2540.20 --> 2541.20] Do you know another one, Malachi? -[2541.20 --> 2542.20] The Pig's Mom -[2542.20 --> 2543.20] The Pig's Mom -[2543.20 --> 2545.20] Maybe there's a Pig's Mom in there -[2545.20 --> 2547.20] And what happens is -[2547.20 --> 2549.20] The Big Bad Wolf, he wants to -[2549.20 --> 2551.20] Eat them -[2551.20 --> 2552.20] And so what does he do? -[2552.20 --> 2554.20] He goes to the first pig's house -[2554.20 --> 2556.20] And he says something like -[2556.20 --> 2557.20] Let me in -[2557.20 --> 2558.20] Let me in -[2558.20 --> 2559.20] Yeah, exactly -[2559.20 --> 2562.20] Little pig, little pig, let me come in -[2562.20 --> 2563.20] Yeah, because he's a little bit hungry -[2563.20 --> 2565.20] And then what does he do to the pig's house? -[2565.20 --> 2566.20] He blows it down -[2566.20 --> 2567.20] He blows it down -[2567.20 --> 2570.20] And then he goes to the next pig's house -[2570.20 --> 2572.20] And does he do the same thing or something different? -[2572.20 --> 2573.20] Same thing -[2573.20 --> 2574.20] He does the same thing -[2574.20 --> 2576.20] And then he goes to the third pig's house -[2576.20 --> 2578.20] He blows down -[2578.20 --> 2580.20] And he tries to blow it down, but he can't -[2580.20 --> 2581.20] So then what does he do? -[2581.20 --> 2584.20] He climbs into the chimney -[2584.20 --> 2586.20] He climbs into the chimney -[2586.20 --> 2588.20] And then they light a fire -[2588.20 --> 2589.20] He lands in the soup -[2589.20 --> 2590.20] Why? -[2590.20 --> 2591.20] He lands in the house -[2591.20 --> 2592.20] Yes -[2592.20 --> 2594.20] Okay, but I'm going to tell you that -[2594.20 --> 2596.20] That's not the -[2596.20 --> 2598.20] That's not actually not what the ending is -[2598.20 --> 2600.20] That's not the ending -[2600.20 --> 2603.20] This three little pigs has a different ending -[2603.20 --> 2605.20] So he doesn't have to go in the chimney -[2605.20 --> 2606.20] He doesn't have to climb down -[2606.20 --> 2608.20] And fall into the soup -[2608.20 --> 2610.20] Instead, when he comes to the door and he says -[2610.20 --> 2612.20] Little pig, little pig, let me come in -[2612.20 --> 2614.20] And the third little pig says -[2614.20 --> 2616.20] Not by the hair of my chinny chin chin -[2616.20 --> 2617.20] And then he says -[2617.20 --> 2618.20] And I'll huff and I'll puff -[2618.20 --> 2620.20] And I'll blow your house down -[2620.20 --> 2621.20] And the third little pig says -[2621.20 --> 2623.20] Before you do that, let me just tell you -[2623.20 --> 2625.20] Did that work last time? -[2625.20 --> 2626.20] Yes -[2626.20 --> 2628.20] Do you think that's going to work this time? -[2628.20 --> 2630.20] Look at how strong my house is -[2630.20 --> 2631.20] And the wolf went -[2631.20 --> 2632.20] Hmm, that's true -[2632.20 --> 2634.20] It is made out of bricks -[2634.20 --> 2635.20] And he said -[2635.20 --> 2637.20] I have a better way for you to get some food -[2637.20 --> 2639.20] Because I'm making some delicious soup -[2639.20 --> 2641.20] Already on my stove -[2641.20 --> 2642.20] If you come in -[2642.20 --> 2645.20] I'll teach you how to make a delicious vegetable soup -[2645.20 --> 2646.20] That you will love -[2646.20 --> 2649.20] And you won't need to go and blow anybody's house down -[2649.20 --> 2651.20] Because you can make your own soup -[2652.20 --> 2654.20] That's the ending -[2657.20 --> 2658.20] That's the ending of the story -[2658.20 --> 2659.20] Did that surprise you? -[2659.20 --> 2662.20] Was that different when what you thought happened? -[2662.20 --> 2663.20] Yeah, well -[2663.20 --> 2664.20] Yeah, well -[2665.20 --> 2666.20] And do you think that maybe -[2666.20 --> 2668.20] I think that maybe that's a better ending -[2668.20 --> 2670.20] Because he doesn't need to keep hunting more pigs -[2670.20 --> 2673.20] He can just make his own delicious food by himself -[2673.20 --> 2677.20] So the third little pig actually did something really amazing -[2677.20 --> 2678.20] When he helped his enemy -[2678.20 --> 2681.20] And he taught him a new way to live -[2681.20 --> 2683.20] So that he could not be so mean to others -[2684.20 --> 2689.20] So that story is kind of like something that we are going to learn about from the Bible -[2689.20 --> 2690.20] Believe it or not -[2690.20 --> 2693.20] We are going to learn today about how God's kingdom -[2693.20 --> 2694.20] And what Jesus -[2694.20 --> 2696.20] The kingdom Jesus wanted to bring -[2696.20 --> 2697.20] Was very, very different -[2697.20 --> 2700.20] Than what the Israelites and the people thought -[2701.20 --> 2702.20] And how they were surprised -[2702.20 --> 2704.20] About what the ending was going to be -[2705.20 --> 2707.20] So we can take a stand -[2707.20 --> 2708.20] Take a stand -[2709.20 --> 2710.20] Everybody -[2713.20 --> 2715.20] And we are going to lead the blessing -[2715.20 --> 2717.20] So if you are learning it -[2717.20 --> 2718.20] The kids, we go -[2718.20 --> 2719.20] And we know the Lord be with you -[2719.20 --> 2720.20] And you get to respond -[2720.20 --> 2721.20] And also with you -[2721.20 --> 2722.20] And also with you -[2723.20 --> 2725.20] The world be with you -[2725.20 --> 2726.20] All right -[2727.20 --> 2728.20] The world be with you -[2728.20 --> 2731.20] And also with you -[2734.20 --> 2737.20] I've got this morning to head to us -[2737.20 --> 2739.20] Good morning everyone -[2739.20 --> 2740.20] Happy New Year -[2740.20 --> 2741.20] Am I still allowed to say that? -[2741.20 --> 2742.20] Yeah -[2742.20 --> 2743.20] Okay, okay -[2743.20 --> 2744.20] At least until the end of the month maybe -[2744.20 --> 2745.20] My name is Eric, I'm an elder here and I'm here to lead you in the church family prayer -[2745.20 --> 2747.20] I have a few things I'd like to mention before that -[2747.20 --> 2748.20] I have a few things I'd like to mention before that -[2748.20 --> 2751.20] I got desperate this morning, couldn't find glasses so I got a one-armed glasses here this morning -[2751.20 --> 2755.20] I'm here to lead you in the church family prayer -[2755.20 --> 2759.20] I have a few things I'd like to mention before that -[2759.20 --> 2766.20] I got desperate this morning, couldn't find glasses so I got a one-armed glasses here this morning so I look a little crooked maybe -[2766.20 --> 2767.20] But they work -[2767.20 --> 2771.20] A couple things I want to bring to everybody's attention -[2771.20 --> 2773.20] Just a thing of, thing of Thanksgiving, Megan and Jesus Hernandez had a baby girl named Janica this week -[2774.20 --> 2775.20] So we're thankful for that -[2776.20 --> 2778.20] I found out this morning from Frank and Frank and Sylvia that they have a new granddaughter -[2778.20 --> 2781.20] And they're going to be a new granddaughter -[2781.20 --> 2782.20] And I have a few things I'd like to mention before that -[2783.20 --> 2793.20] I got desperate this morning and couldn't find glasses so I got a one-arm glasses here this morning -[2794.20 --> 2795.20] So I look a little crooked maybe -[2796.20 --> 2797.20] But they work -[2797.20 --> 2801.24] I found out this morning from Frank and Sylvia that they have a new granddaughter. -[2802.10 --> 2803.74] She was born on January 5th. -[2803.92 --> 2808.06] She's a month early, but the mom and everyone is doing well. -[2808.14 --> 2812.66] Her name is Charlotte Beth to their daughter Cheryl and Kevin. -[2815.02 --> 2820.14] We also have a few deaths that have been happening in our community over the last little while -[2820.14 --> 2822.36] that we should pray for the families for. -[2822.36 --> 2829.90] Jacob Prins passed away in Lacombe, a connection to the Birken Pass and Prins families in this church. -[2830.96 --> 2835.06] Ebel Campen, uncle to Miriam De Winter, has passed away. -[2835.80 --> 2840.42] Hank Van Eyck passed away, dad to Greta Kuypers and granddaughter to Nikki Lowbert. -[2841.40 --> 2845.46] Helen Van Vergeyck's mom, Carolyn's grandma, also has passed away. -[2845.46 --> 2853.96] And we should also keep in our minds the Visser and Hummelman families as they've also lost loved ones recently as well. -[2856.16 --> 2859.10] I saw Emmett in here. Is he still here or did he go to Sunday school? -[2859.84 --> 2861.04] That's a pretty good sign. -[2861.14 --> 2866.62] So Emmett was in the hospital for a few days last week, so he's back home and doing well. -[2867.34 --> 2867.58] Good. -[2868.36 --> 2874.34] And of course, we've been praying for Jerry Jansen's granddaughter who's dealing with lupus as well for the last few weeks. -[2874.34 --> 2875.40] So keep her in our prayers. -[2876.46 --> 2878.42] Now please join me in family prayer. -[2880.48 --> 2882.66] Heavenly Father, we thank you for this day. -[2883.90 --> 2889.98] As the cold snap works to pass on to somewhere else, we are thankful for the many comforts we have in our lives, -[2890.04 --> 2891.80] like heated homes and heated cars. -[2892.82 --> 2896.60] Our thoughts and prayers go out to those who do not have these conveniences, -[2896.78 --> 2899.72] like the homeless that we see on the streets, even here in Langley. -[2899.72 --> 2911.36] As we watch the world spiral into chaos in many areas, we realize how insignificant our complaints about the weather or the cold really are, -[2911.94 --> 2916.76] compared to the trials that many have in these unstable areas of the world. -[2916.76 --> 2925.00] We pray for peace in these areas and for your guiding hand for the leadership involved to make peace and harmony accessible to all. -[2925.00 --> 2930.58] Here in our own country, Lord, we ask for prayer for the challenges we see all too often. -[2930.58 --> 2936.46] Homelessness, drug addiction, and poverty are big problems that have no easy answers, -[2936.46 --> 2940.76] but we know, Lord, that no problem is too large for your power to correct. -[2941.86 --> 2948.50] Lord, give us the leadership in this country, give the leadership in this country the foresight to bring a solution to these issues -[2948.50 --> 2950.48] and to support those that need our help. -[2950.48 --> 2957.12] Lord, here in our own church, here at Emmanuel, we have concerns too that we want to bring to you. -[2957.62 --> 2960.84] So many in our midst have experienced death of a loved one recently. -[2960.84 --> 2968.30] It is always difficult to lose a loved one, and that hole that is present from the lost can take a long time to heal. -[2969.14 --> 2973.16] So, Lord, we ask for strength for those who are mourning our loved ones. -[2974.78 --> 2978.90] We are grateful, Lord, for the new child that has been born to Megan and Jesus Hernandez. -[2978.90 --> 2983.76] All are doing well, and we are enjoying the smile on Oma Joanne's face. -[2984.76 --> 2991.72] We also want to praise you, Lord, for the safe arrival of Frank and Sylvia's granddaughter, Charlotte, as well. -[2993.00 --> 2999.10] We are thankful that Emmett Wind has returned home from the hospital after a health scare that kept him in the hospital for a number of days. -[3000.88 --> 3006.36] We know, Lord, that there are many challenges, issues, and concerns among our community that do not make the bulletin list. -[3006.36 --> 3013.74] Many of those we know will all suffer from many physical health ailments that we ask you, Lord, for healing. -[3014.88 --> 3025.86] The often unseen challenges of mental health are often very difficult to navigate, but we trust and pray that you can offer hope for those and offer light in an often very dark space. -[3025.86 --> 3033.04] We pray for families in our midst, Lord, where parents need wisdom and strength to deal with the parenting children of all ages. -[3034.26 --> 3039.02] There's no handbook on this, and we often wonder and hope and pray that we are doing the right things. -[3040.30 --> 3048.84] Since we know we as parents and our children are your children, we can rest in the comfort that we can trust in you to guide all of us. -[3048.84 --> 3055.48] In this world, Lord, where there are so many distractions from you and walking with you, -[3056.80 --> 3064.28] distractions from you and walking with you, we ask for your spirit to encourage us to pause and take a moment to focus on you through a time of prayer, -[3065.22 --> 3067.42] devotion, Bible reading, or reflection. -[3068.70 --> 3070.50] This will do us all a lot of good. -[3070.50 --> 3076.90] When we look around us and see how complicated our world has become and how many distractions there are, -[3077.00 --> 3079.44] we are grateful for the simple words of the Lord's Prayer. -[3080.56 --> 3084.00] Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be your name. -[3084.82 --> 3088.38] Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. -[3089.28 --> 3095.22] Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespassers as we forgive those who trespass against us. -[3095.22 --> 3098.50] And lead us not in temptation, but deliver us from evil. -[3098.80 --> 3102.80] For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours forever and ever. -[3103.26 --> 3103.52] Amen. -[3103.52 --> 3103.64] Amen. -[3125.22 --> 3133.38] We are going to continue our worship with a chance to hear and reflect upon God's word together. -[3133.38 --> 3138.58] And we're going to do that from what is for many a very familiar psalm. -[3139.30 --> 3149.76] And as we are celebrating births and God's goodness in that, a very appropriate psalm for our reflection and worship this morning. -[3149.90 --> 3152.96] We're going to read from Psalm 139. -[3152.96 --> 3158.50] And so if you have a Bible either in your hands or from the back or on your device, -[3159.30 --> 3160.88] I encourage you to open that up, turn that on. -[3160.88 --> 3169.54] The first time through, it will be on the screen, but it will help you as we go through if you are able to keep that with you or in front of you. -[3170.94 --> 3176.76] I'm going to read through the psalm once together, and then you can have it there. -[3176.96 --> 3177.98] Let's read. -[3181.48 --> 3182.88] Psalm 139. -[3182.96 --> 3187.10] You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. -[3187.92 --> 3190.20] You know when I sit and when I rise. -[3190.34 --> 3192.54] You perceive my thoughts from afar. -[3193.52 --> 3196.56] You discern my going out and my lying down. -[3196.96 --> 3199.60] You are familiar with all my ways. -[3200.10 --> 3203.78] Before a word is on my tongue, you know, Lord, it completely. -[3204.74 --> 3209.12] You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me. -[3209.12 --> 3214.52] Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. -[3214.52 --> 3218.58] Where can I go from your spirit? -[3218.58 --> 3220.68] Where can I flee from your presence? -[3220.68 --> 3222.98] If I go up to the heavens, you are there. -[3222.98 --> 3226.02] If I make my bed in the depths, you are there. -[3226.02 --> 3233.14] If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me. -[3233.14 --> 3235.74] Your right hand will hold me fast. -[3235.74 --> 3241.84] If I say surely the darkness will hide me and the light will become night around me. -[3241.84 --> 3245.60] Even the darkness will not be dark to you. -[3246.24 --> 3250.50] The light will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you. -[3251.66 --> 3255.00] For you created my inmost being. -[3255.46 --> 3257.40] You knit me together in my mother's womb. -[3257.54 --> 3261.02] I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made. -[3261.42 --> 3262.84] Your works are wonderful. -[3263.68 --> 3265.54] I know that full well. -[3265.54 --> 3273.48] My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. -[3274.24 --> 3277.24] Your eyes saw my unformed body. -[3277.40 --> 3282.44] All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. -[3283.52 --> 3286.44] How precious to me are your thoughts, God! -[3286.62 --> 3288.44] How vast the sum of them! -[3289.36 --> 3292.34] Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of the sand. -[3292.34 --> 3294.92] When I awake, I am still with you. -[3295.54 --> 3300.36] If only you, God, would slay the wicked. -[3300.74 --> 3303.14] Away from me, you who are bloodthirsty. -[3303.98 --> 3305.88] They speak of you with evil intent. -[3306.24 --> 3308.40] Your adversaries misuse your name. -[3309.44 --> 3314.28] Do I not hate those who hate you, Lord, and abhor those who are in rebellion against you? -[3314.86 --> 3317.18] I have nothing but hatred for them. -[3317.28 --> 3318.56] I count them my enemies. -[3319.76 --> 3323.42] Search me, God, and know my heart. -[3323.42 --> 3331.60] Test me, and know my anxious thoughts, and see if there is any offensive way in me, -[3331.90 --> 3335.04] and lead me in the way everlasting. -[3335.70 --> 3336.86] This is the word of the Lord. -[3336.86 --> 3338.40] Thanks be to God. -[3338.40 --> 3353.18] A little while ago, my sister-in-law, who lives in Ontario, was telling us a story about my niece. -[3353.96 --> 3358.92] My niece is three years old, and she is rambunctious and full of life. -[3359.08 --> 3360.10] That's one way to put it. -[3360.10 --> 3364.24] She was playing hide-and-seek with her older sister, -[3364.90 --> 3371.74] and she was convinced that she had found the best hiding spot in their house. -[3372.80 --> 3376.56] You see, what she had done is she had taken a rubber-made tote -[3376.56 --> 3380.22] that normally has those ball pit balls in it that they play with, -[3380.26 --> 3383.18] and they dump into an inflatable pool, but that's where they store them. -[3383.18 --> 3386.46] She had taken that rubber-made tote, dumped all the balls out, -[3386.84 --> 3389.84] flipped it over, and then hid underneath. -[3391.92 --> 3396.08] And my sister-in-law says you could hear her giggling -[3396.08 --> 3401.06] as she thought she had found the perfect spot. -[3402.24 --> 3403.86] I have a picture I want you to see. -[3403.86 --> 3411.94] The perfect spot she found, if you can't see it, -[3412.46 --> 3414.76] was under a clear plastic rubber-made tote, -[3415.08 --> 3418.32] and she was covering her eyes and laughing away. -[3423.08 --> 3426.68] I think, not only is this adorable, and isn't she amazing, -[3426.68 --> 3431.88] but I think this is an awesome illustration -[3431.88 --> 3440.06] of how we look to God when we try to hide ourselves, -[3440.92 --> 3444.62] when we try to keep our hearts secret from who God is. -[3445.38 --> 3447.64] We think we're being really good at it, -[3448.64 --> 3453.28] and God sees right through the box that we hide. -[3454.24 --> 3455.88] Try to cover it up, try to hide it, -[3455.88 --> 3458.04] try to shut our eyes to it, -[3458.28 --> 3460.52] no matter how deep we bury it down, -[3460.60 --> 3463.56] or stuff it into the deepest corners of our subconscious. -[3464.04 --> 3465.82] Try, as we might, to ignore it, -[3465.88 --> 3468.78] or to distract others from the truth of it. -[3469.86 --> 3474.86] All of who we are is clear to God. -[3476.82 --> 3479.94] And this morning, as we reflect on Psalm 139, -[3479.94 --> 3481.70] you have a choice to make. -[3481.70 --> 3489.08] Because this truth can either be terrifying or anxiety-inducing, -[3489.30 --> 3495.96] or, like I believe, it can be the single greatest source of peace -[3495.96 --> 3500.18] and comfort, of hope in your life for every day, -[3500.34 --> 3503.26] for every moment, and everything you face. -[3503.26 --> 3507.34] And whether it's the first or the latter, -[3507.48 --> 3508.48] that's up to you. -[3508.70 --> 3510.86] That's your choice this morning. -[3512.06 --> 3516.58] This is the truth, I think, of Psalm 139. -[3517.30 --> 3519.02] That God knows everything, -[3519.42 --> 3520.84] that God is everywhere, -[3521.10 --> 3523.32] and that God will deal with everyone. -[3524.38 --> 3526.46] The truth of Psalm 139, -[3526.46 --> 3529.74] this is the truth of Psalm 139, -[3529.82 --> 3531.50] and because it is true, -[3532.02 --> 3535.60] that becomes for us comfort, peace, and hope. -[3535.98 --> 3538.78] That's our big idea this morning, -[3538.86 --> 3541.88] and the structure of this passage and this message. -[3542.42 --> 3544.04] One, that God knows everything. -[3544.60 --> 3545.94] Two, God is everywhere. -[3546.24 --> 3548.84] And three, God will deal with everyone. -[3548.84 --> 3552.32] And so, we can have comfort and peace -[3552.32 --> 3554.76] in life and in death. -[3556.04 --> 3557.44] Now, if your Bibles are open, -[3557.54 --> 3558.78] and this is one of the reasons why I asked you -[3558.78 --> 3560.04] to have that in front of you, -[3560.80 --> 3565.80] you can see the way the editors have structured it -[3565.80 --> 3567.40] in whatever translation you're reading. -[3567.48 --> 3568.56] It's probably very similar. -[3569.24 --> 3571.92] And it's based on the Hebrew poetry -[3571.92 --> 3574.12] and the way this is organized there, -[3574.12 --> 3576.90] but it's structured into four sections, -[3577.38 --> 3579.10] each of six verses. -[3579.10 --> 3582.16] Now, the first section there, -[3582.40 --> 3583.88] verses one through six, -[3584.26 --> 3585.98] is our number one. -[3586.12 --> 3588.02] It's our first point, right? -[3588.12 --> 3589.90] God knows everything. -[3590.66 --> 3591.44] And specifically, -[3591.96 --> 3595.00] God knows everything about me. -[3597.76 --> 3601.30] This is about God's intimate -[3601.30 --> 3603.58] and perfect knowledge -[3603.58 --> 3606.32] of my whole person. -[3606.32 --> 3609.44] about how there's nothing hidden -[3609.44 --> 3610.70] from his sight. -[3611.70 --> 3613.68] You have searched me, Lord, -[3613.76 --> 3614.80] and you know me. -[3616.06 --> 3616.20] Right? -[3616.24 --> 3617.16] God has examined. -[3617.70 --> 3618.96] He has looked deeply -[3618.96 --> 3620.86] and he has seen it all. -[3621.38 --> 3622.46] He knows you. -[3623.26 --> 3625.02] And it's important to realize -[3625.02 --> 3627.96] that he has always known you. -[3628.76 --> 3628.90] Right? -[3628.90 --> 3630.84] God is outside of time. -[3631.00 --> 3631.90] He is transcendent, -[3632.68 --> 3634.00] is sometimes the word we use. -[3634.00 --> 3636.38] It means he is over and above things. -[3636.46 --> 3638.84] He is outside of space and time. -[3638.94 --> 3640.90] That's what transcendent means for God. -[3640.98 --> 3643.84] And he sees from that vantage point. -[3644.68 --> 3644.86] Right? -[3644.90 --> 3645.56] What did we read? -[3646.66 --> 3648.54] You know when I sit and when I rise, -[3648.64 --> 3651.86] you perceive my thoughts from afar. -[3653.30 --> 3653.60] Right? -[3653.66 --> 3656.46] From God's transcendent vantage point, -[3656.60 --> 3659.34] he sees and he knows everything. -[3659.70 --> 3662.00] He sees your heart and your desires. -[3662.00 --> 3665.30] He sees your mind and your will. -[3665.62 --> 3667.28] He knows your actions. -[3669.40 --> 3672.00] You know when I sit and when I rise. -[3673.16 --> 3676.24] You discern my going out and my lying down. -[3676.74 --> 3680.08] You are familiar with all my ways. -[3681.88 --> 3682.08] Right? -[3682.10 --> 3683.10] He knows your words. -[3683.64 --> 3684.90] In fact, he knows the words -[3684.90 --> 3686.22] before it's on your tongue, -[3686.30 --> 3687.52] before a word is on my tongue. -[3687.60 --> 3689.02] You know it, Lord, completely. -[3689.02 --> 3691.40] And he knows your life. -[3692.22 --> 3693.94] Past, present, and future -[3693.94 --> 3697.38] are all concurrent, present to God. -[3698.42 --> 3698.76] He says, -[3698.86 --> 3701.24] You hem me in behind and before. -[3701.58 --> 3704.18] You lay your hand upon me. -[3705.36 --> 3706.82] I hope you can see it. -[3707.14 --> 3708.82] God knows everything. -[3709.32 --> 3711.72] And this isn't some general knowledge -[3711.72 --> 3714.56] about things generally happening in the world. -[3714.56 --> 3717.50] This is a specific and particular knowledge -[3717.50 --> 3718.36] about you. -[3719.58 --> 3720.96] About who you are. -[3722.90 --> 3725.90] There's a quote from a theologian -[3725.90 --> 3727.62] named A.W. Tozer. -[3727.78 --> 3729.46] He wrote in the 1960s. -[3730.30 --> 3731.58] It's a bit of a longer quote, -[3731.72 --> 3733.08] but it's written in a way -[3733.08 --> 3734.48] that people just don't talk anymore. -[3734.72 --> 3736.80] And so there's something beautiful to it. -[3737.18 --> 3738.12] And so I want to share it with you. -[3738.86 --> 3740.10] This is from his book called -[3740.10 --> 3741.34] The Knowledge of the Holy. -[3741.34 --> 3747.68] God knows instantly and effortlessly -[3747.68 --> 3749.88] all matter and all matters, -[3750.68 --> 3753.04] all mind and every mind, -[3753.40 --> 3755.08] all spirit and all spirits, -[3755.20 --> 3757.52] all being and every being, -[3757.68 --> 3760.00] all creaturehood and all creatures, -[3760.16 --> 3762.98] every plurality and all pluralities, -[3763.12 --> 3764.82] all law and every law, -[3765.08 --> 3766.66] all relations, all causes, -[3766.78 --> 3767.36] all thoughts, -[3767.36 --> 3769.00] all mysteries, -[3769.52 --> 3770.16] all enigmas, -[3770.32 --> 3770.86] all feeling, -[3771.04 --> 3771.74] all desires, -[3772.24 --> 3773.66] every unuttered secret, -[3773.84 --> 3775.14] all thrones and dominions, -[3775.26 --> 3776.02] all personalities, -[3776.32 --> 3777.84] all things visible and invisible -[3777.84 --> 3778.98] in heaven and on earth, -[3779.14 --> 3781.12] motion, space, time, life, death, -[3781.50 --> 3783.42] good, evil, heaven and hell. -[3784.26 --> 3787.86] And he is never surprised. -[3790.52 --> 3792.72] Think about that for a moment -[3792.72 --> 3794.72] by way of comparison. -[3794.72 --> 3799.22] Listen, generally speaking, -[3799.72 --> 3805.46] what is your greatest source of anxiety -[3805.46 --> 3808.72] or worry or fear in this life? -[3810.72 --> 3812.46] In some way, generally, -[3812.96 --> 3814.18] all of our anxieties, -[3814.34 --> 3815.12] all of our fears, -[3815.28 --> 3816.16] all of our worries -[3816.16 --> 3819.42] are related to what we don't know -[3819.42 --> 3822.10] or what we can't know -[3822.10 --> 3823.46] or what we can't see, -[3824.00 --> 3824.12] right, -[3824.12 --> 3825.30] what we don't understand. -[3825.94 --> 3827.86] Most often in life, -[3827.96 --> 3829.88] it's some form of the unknown -[3829.88 --> 3833.50] that increases or causes our anxiety -[3833.50 --> 3835.42] or our fear and our worry. -[3836.76 --> 3839.74] And because God knows everything, -[3840.00 --> 3842.20] because he is never surprised, -[3842.26 --> 3843.24] like Tozer says, -[3843.54 --> 3845.10] that's why there's no fear -[3845.10 --> 3847.28] or anxiety or worry in him, -[3847.28 --> 3849.42] because nothing catches him off guard, -[3850.20 --> 3850.32] right? -[3850.36 --> 3851.58] Not even your deepest, -[3852.06 --> 3854.16] darkest, dirtiest secrets. -[3855.50 --> 3857.22] Nothing catches him unaware. -[3858.28 --> 3860.18] Not even the most horrific thing -[3860.18 --> 3861.80] you've ever thought or done. -[3863.46 --> 3865.54] In his presence, -[3865.78 --> 3867.52] to his gaze, -[3867.82 --> 3870.28] you are laid bare. -[3870.28 --> 3874.56] And let me be clear, -[3874.68 --> 3876.86] if that's terrifying to you, -[3878.16 --> 3879.72] it could be because -[3879.72 --> 3881.08] you're coming at this -[3881.08 --> 3882.44] from a human perspective. -[3882.64 --> 3882.88] That is, -[3883.10 --> 3883.96] you're coming at this -[3883.96 --> 3885.30] full of the same assumptions -[3885.30 --> 3886.52] you would have -[3886.52 --> 3888.12] if you saw the depths -[3888.12 --> 3889.80] of that person's heart -[3889.80 --> 3891.04] or that you would have -[3891.04 --> 3892.24] or that you would assume -[3892.24 --> 3893.22] if you knew -[3893.22 --> 3894.06] the deepest -[3894.06 --> 3895.38] and darkest corners -[3895.38 --> 3896.44] of their mind. -[3896.52 --> 3897.26] You're coming at this -[3897.26 --> 3898.08] from the assumption -[3898.08 --> 3899.32] of what you think -[3899.32 --> 3900.78] other people might say -[3900.78 --> 3901.78] if they saw the depths -[3901.78 --> 3902.62] of your being. -[3904.00 --> 3905.58] But God is not like you -[3905.58 --> 3906.92] and me in that regard. -[3907.18 --> 3907.96] More accurately, -[3908.34 --> 3908.80] you and I -[3908.80 --> 3909.76] are not like God -[3909.76 --> 3910.70] in that regard. -[3913.02 --> 3913.90] The truth is, -[3914.02 --> 3914.56] and the psalmist -[3914.56 --> 3915.28] makes it really clear, -[3915.38 --> 3916.42] that kind of awareness, -[3916.66 --> 3918.40] that kind of self-knowledge -[3918.40 --> 3919.42] would, in fact, -[3919.50 --> 3921.26] be too much for us. -[3922.16 --> 3923.06] That's David's point -[3923.06 --> 3923.98] in verse 6. -[3924.88 --> 3925.16] He says, -[3925.58 --> 3926.52] such knowledge -[3926.52 --> 3927.76] is too wonderful -[3927.76 --> 3928.36] for me, -[3928.48 --> 3929.40] too lofty -[3929.40 --> 3930.58] for me to attain. -[3931.56 --> 3932.46] That word, -[3932.58 --> 3933.50] too wonderful, -[3933.76 --> 3934.34] in Hebrew, -[3934.70 --> 3936.32] means incomprehensible. -[3937.84 --> 3938.96] It's too much. -[3940.68 --> 3941.16] Now, I want you -[3941.16 --> 3941.66] to see this -[3941.66 --> 3943.72] carefully. -[3944.78 --> 3945.88] If you have your Bibles open, -[3946.06 --> 3946.50] this will help -[3946.50 --> 3947.42] if you look at the text. -[3949.46 --> 3950.58] Such knowledge -[3950.58 --> 3951.76] is too wonderful. -[3951.76 --> 3953.80] It is incomprehensible. -[3953.80 --> 3955.88] And then, -[3955.98 --> 3956.96] it describes, -[3957.20 --> 3958.10] through what's called -[3958.10 --> 3958.98] parallelism, -[3959.48 --> 3960.22] saying it is -[3960.22 --> 3961.50] too lofty -[3961.50 --> 3962.76] for me to attain. -[3963.30 --> 3964.26] Too lofty -[3964.26 --> 3965.22] means that it is -[3965.22 --> 3965.78] high above. -[3965.92 --> 3967.06] It's far away. -[3967.60 --> 3968.84] It's like what David said -[3968.84 --> 3969.68] back in verse 2 -[3969.68 --> 3970.18] when he says, -[3970.30 --> 3971.20] you know when I sit -[3971.20 --> 3971.78] and when I rise, -[3971.86 --> 3972.92] you perceive my thoughts -[3972.92 --> 3973.76] from where? -[3975.34 --> 3976.18] From afar. -[3977.84 --> 3979.30] Here's what I want you -[3979.30 --> 3979.66] to hear. -[3980.56 --> 3981.58] God's knowledge -[3981.58 --> 3982.46] of all -[3982.46 --> 3983.78] is related -[3983.78 --> 3985.48] to his transcendence -[3985.48 --> 3986.18] overall. -[3988.10 --> 3989.14] Did you catch that? -[3990.12 --> 3991.08] God's knowledge -[3991.08 --> 3991.90] of all -[3991.90 --> 3992.72] is related -[3992.72 --> 3994.24] to his transcendence -[3994.24 --> 3995.02] overall. -[3995.30 --> 3996.02] And what I mean -[3996.02 --> 3996.56] by that -[3996.56 --> 3997.24] is that because -[3997.24 --> 3998.68] God is above all, -[3998.82 --> 4000.20] because he is -[4000.20 --> 4001.94] out of this -[4001.94 --> 4003.24] world and system, -[4003.34 --> 4004.16] because he is -[4004.16 --> 4005.48] totally holy, -[4005.78 --> 4007.10] that is set apart, -[4007.52 --> 4007.66] right, -[4007.72 --> 4009.34] he is wholly other, -[4009.66 --> 4010.60] he is able -[4010.60 --> 4011.28] to see -[4011.28 --> 4012.02] everything -[4012.02 --> 4012.98] that is. -[4014.00 --> 4014.86] Let's say that again. -[4015.46 --> 4016.98] God's transcendence, -[4017.02 --> 4017.84] there's that word again, -[4018.14 --> 4018.98] isn't about -[4018.98 --> 4020.14] his physical -[4020.14 --> 4021.12] or material -[4021.12 --> 4022.00] location -[4022.00 --> 4023.16] in this world. -[4024.00 --> 4024.70] We're not saying -[4024.70 --> 4025.46] that God is somewhere -[4025.46 --> 4026.54] up in the sky -[4026.54 --> 4027.54] when we are saying -[4027.54 --> 4028.60] that he is transcendent. -[4028.90 --> 4029.28] Instead, -[4029.66 --> 4030.30] what we mean -[4030.30 --> 4031.50] when we say -[4031.50 --> 4033.02] that God is transcendent -[4033.02 --> 4033.74] is that he is -[4033.74 --> 4035.06] wholly other, -[4035.24 --> 4036.20] he is a wholly -[4036.20 --> 4037.60] other being, -[4037.94 --> 4039.56] he is true being, -[4039.66 --> 4040.78] in a capital B -[4040.78 --> 4041.72] sense of the word. -[4042.30 --> 4042.42] Right? -[4042.50 --> 4044.08] All of our being -[4044.08 --> 4044.88] and our existing -[4044.88 --> 4046.56] is dependent upon -[4046.56 --> 4047.78] his being -[4047.78 --> 4049.38] and his existing. -[4049.50 --> 4050.82] That's transcendence. -[4052.42 --> 4054.08] And it's this truth -[4054.08 --> 4056.40] about who God is, -[4056.66 --> 4058.84] this transcendent God, -[4058.96 --> 4060.86] that makes the second part -[4060.86 --> 4062.74] of Psalm 139 -[4062.74 --> 4063.88] so beautiful -[4063.88 --> 4064.94] and so compelling. -[4064.94 --> 4066.76] because not only -[4066.76 --> 4068.58] does this transcendent God -[4068.58 --> 4069.96] know everything -[4069.96 --> 4071.56] about you, -[4072.78 --> 4075.98] but this God -[4075.98 --> 4077.70] is everywhere. -[4078.00 --> 4078.60] Specifically, -[4079.14 --> 4080.40] he is everywhere -[4080.40 --> 4082.36] with you. -[4083.58 --> 4084.40] In verse 7, -[4084.78 --> 4085.46] David asks, -[4085.66 --> 4086.32] where can I go -[4086.32 --> 4087.20] from your spirit? -[4087.32 --> 4088.26] Where can I flee -[4088.26 --> 4089.40] from your presence? -[4090.26 --> 4091.06] And then the answer -[4091.06 --> 4091.78] that he gives -[4091.78 --> 4092.46] in this section -[4092.46 --> 4093.08] is nowhere. -[4093.98 --> 4094.16] Right? -[4094.18 --> 4095.18] If I go up to the sky, -[4095.32 --> 4095.70] you're there. -[4095.86 --> 4096.76] If I make my bed -[4096.76 --> 4097.26] in the depths, -[4097.40 --> 4097.78] you're there. -[4097.88 --> 4098.64] If I go to heaven, -[4098.78 --> 4099.24] you are there. -[4099.34 --> 4100.46] If I go to the grave, -[4100.80 --> 4101.40] you are there. -[4101.58 --> 4102.76] At the beginning of the day, -[4102.84 --> 4103.50] you are there. -[4103.64 --> 4104.66] Even if I flee -[4104.66 --> 4105.96] to the furthest side -[4105.96 --> 4106.60] of the sea, -[4107.78 --> 4108.40] you are there. -[4110.94 --> 4112.22] The amazing thing -[4112.22 --> 4113.90] about God's transcendence -[4113.90 --> 4116.36] is that it is matched -[4116.36 --> 4118.50] by his imminence. -[4120.24 --> 4120.76] Right? -[4120.82 --> 4121.54] The amazing thing -[4121.54 --> 4122.06] about God -[4122.06 --> 4124.02] being so wholly other -[4124.02 --> 4125.40] is that it is matched -[4125.40 --> 4126.60] by his being -[4126.60 --> 4128.04] with us. -[4128.84 --> 4128.98] Right? -[4129.08 --> 4129.90] God's imminence -[4129.90 --> 4130.90] by his spirit -[4130.90 --> 4131.78] means that he is -[4131.78 --> 4133.20] with us everywhere. -[4133.34 --> 4134.00] The same God -[4134.00 --> 4134.96] who is transcendent -[4134.96 --> 4136.30] over all the universe -[4136.30 --> 4137.12] is present -[4137.12 --> 4138.62] in the universe -[4138.62 --> 4139.32] that he created -[4139.32 --> 4140.34] by his spirit. -[4141.18 --> 4141.58] And again, -[4142.26 --> 4142.94] hear carefully -[4142.94 --> 4144.06] verse 12. -[4146.44 --> 4147.50] Even darkness -[4147.50 --> 4149.70] is not dark to you. -[4150.52 --> 4151.12] The darkness -[4151.12 --> 4153.24] is as light to you. -[4154.08 --> 4154.74] That means -[4154.74 --> 4156.54] even when it seems like, -[4156.86 --> 4158.50] even when it feels like -[4158.50 --> 4159.66] God is not around, -[4160.06 --> 4161.30] even when it seems like -[4161.30 --> 4161.98] or feels like -[4161.98 --> 4162.90] he is not near, -[4163.32 --> 4164.40] even when you look out -[4164.40 --> 4165.02] at your life -[4165.02 --> 4167.00] and you cannot see him, -[4167.04 --> 4167.72] you are blind -[4167.72 --> 4169.36] to his presence, -[4169.62 --> 4170.80] no matter what life -[4170.80 --> 4171.62] throws at you -[4171.62 --> 4172.70] that seems to have -[4172.70 --> 4173.70] pushed him away -[4173.70 --> 4174.40] or caused you -[4174.40 --> 4175.32] to push him away, -[4175.72 --> 4177.62] the true reality -[4177.62 --> 4178.94] of the matter is, -[4179.06 --> 4180.54] the spiritual reality -[4180.54 --> 4182.26] is that God -[4182.26 --> 4183.84] is here. -[4185.22 --> 4186.38] That he is close to you, -[4186.44 --> 4187.54] that he is near you, -[4187.62 --> 4188.80] that he has never left you -[4188.80 --> 4189.94] nor forsaken you. -[4190.44 --> 4191.34] And he never will. -[4192.30 --> 4193.98] Darkness is as light -[4193.98 --> 4194.48] to you -[4194.48 --> 4196.14] in the pitchest black -[4196.14 --> 4197.32] when you can't see -[4197.32 --> 4197.88] a thing, -[4198.26 --> 4199.08] God sees -[4199.08 --> 4200.02] as if it were -[4200.02 --> 4200.98] the noonday sun -[4200.98 --> 4202.10] shining bright overhead. -[4204.64 --> 4205.56] And then, -[4205.82 --> 4207.18] God's transcendence -[4207.18 --> 4209.18] and his imminence -[4209.18 --> 4210.48] come together -[4210.48 --> 4212.54] to bring comfort -[4212.54 --> 4214.34] and peace. -[4215.80 --> 4217.24] God's seeing all -[4217.24 --> 4218.46] and being everywhere -[4218.46 --> 4219.58] comes together -[4219.58 --> 4220.20] for you -[4220.20 --> 4221.28] and for me. -[4221.58 --> 4222.56] For the one -[4222.56 --> 4222.96] who, -[4223.18 --> 4223.80] by grace -[4223.80 --> 4224.48] through faith, -[4224.62 --> 4225.76] believes that this is true, -[4226.06 --> 4226.70] for the one -[4226.70 --> 4227.94] who is chosen -[4227.94 --> 4228.60] by God. -[4228.68 --> 4229.84] This comes together -[4229.84 --> 4230.22] then -[4230.22 --> 4232.92] in this third section -[4232.92 --> 4234.10] in the truth -[4234.10 --> 4235.24] of verses 13 -[4235.24 --> 4236.26] through 18. -[4237.62 --> 4239.04] For you created -[4239.04 --> 4240.74] my inmost being. -[4242.08 --> 4243.10] You knit me together -[4243.10 --> 4244.58] in my mother's womb. -[4246.22 --> 4247.42] God's knowledge -[4247.42 --> 4248.44] of you -[4248.44 --> 4251.50] is from before -[4251.50 --> 4252.96] there is even -[4252.96 --> 4253.58] a you -[4253.58 --> 4254.90] to be known. -[4256.70 --> 4257.54] Did you get that? -[4259.16 --> 4260.08] Verse 16, -[4260.32 --> 4260.88] Your eyes -[4260.88 --> 4262.20] saw my unformed -[4262.20 --> 4262.84] body. -[4262.98 --> 4263.76] All the days -[4263.76 --> 4264.54] ordained for me -[4264.54 --> 4265.02] were written -[4265.02 --> 4265.90] in your book -[4265.90 --> 4267.20] before one of them -[4267.20 --> 4267.98] came to be. -[4269.40 --> 4270.34] From eternity -[4270.34 --> 4270.90] past -[4270.90 --> 4272.22] in the mind -[4272.22 --> 4272.84] of God -[4272.84 --> 4274.72] to being created -[4274.72 --> 4275.20] body -[4275.20 --> 4276.24] and soul, -[4276.56 --> 4277.40] all of you -[4277.40 --> 4278.70] and all of your life -[4278.70 --> 4279.70] is known -[4279.70 --> 4280.62] to God -[4280.62 --> 4281.80] and he is present -[4281.80 --> 4282.66] in it. -[4283.88 --> 4284.66] And so think about that, -[4284.74 --> 4284.80] right? -[4285.00 --> 4286.24] Think about what that means -[4286.24 --> 4287.18] for that everything -[4287.18 --> 4288.34] that you are facing, -[4289.20 --> 4290.32] whatever it is, -[4291.14 --> 4292.60] God knows about it. -[4293.76 --> 4295.28] He has a plan for it. -[4295.92 --> 4297.08] He has a purpose -[4297.08 --> 4297.92] in it. -[4298.70 --> 4300.14] And he is with you -[4300.14 --> 4301.40] through it. -[4303.48 --> 4305.00] Because of who God is, -[4305.48 --> 4307.12] because of what God sees, -[4307.42 --> 4308.56] because his presence -[4308.56 --> 4309.90] is always -[4309.90 --> 4311.12] and forever -[4311.12 --> 4312.00] with you, -[4312.08 --> 4313.24] because his spirit -[4313.24 --> 4314.82] is granting faith -[4314.82 --> 4315.64] by grace -[4315.64 --> 4316.42] if you believe, -[4316.66 --> 4316.80] right? -[4316.84 --> 4318.24] We are given -[4318.24 --> 4319.74] eyes to see -[4319.74 --> 4320.82] God at work -[4320.82 --> 4321.88] in this way. -[4323.00 --> 4323.90] And not only -[4323.90 --> 4324.86] do we get to see -[4324.86 --> 4325.76] God at work -[4325.76 --> 4326.40] more clearly, -[4326.62 --> 4327.72] but in seeing -[4327.72 --> 4329.04] God more clearly, -[4329.20 --> 4330.54] it's like holding up -[4330.54 --> 4330.98] a mirror, -[4331.14 --> 4331.82] we begin to see -[4331.82 --> 4332.64] ourselves -[4332.64 --> 4333.96] more truly -[4333.96 --> 4334.58] as well. -[4335.98 --> 4336.46] And I believe -[4336.46 --> 4336.92] that there is -[4336.92 --> 4337.88] a clarity -[4337.88 --> 4338.78] of mind -[4338.78 --> 4339.66] and purpose -[4339.66 --> 4341.16] that comes, -[4341.28 --> 4341.78] a clarity -[4341.78 --> 4342.96] of identity -[4342.96 --> 4344.46] for who you are -[4344.46 --> 4344.96] in the world, -[4345.04 --> 4345.86] who I am, -[4346.20 --> 4346.82] that comes -[4346.82 --> 4347.76] when we see -[4347.76 --> 4349.98] God most clearly -[4349.98 --> 4351.06] as he is revealed -[4351.06 --> 4352.26] to us in the Bible, -[4352.36 --> 4353.20] as he gives himself -[4353.20 --> 4354.22] to us by grace -[4354.22 --> 4355.00] through faith, -[4355.12 --> 4356.18] as he makes union -[4356.18 --> 4357.24] with us possible -[4357.24 --> 4358.36] through Christ Jesus. -[4358.60 --> 4359.62] All of a sudden, -[4360.20 --> 4361.30] we get a better -[4361.30 --> 4362.44] and a more clear -[4362.44 --> 4363.42] picture of what it -[4363.42 --> 4364.72] means to be human, -[4365.16 --> 4366.02] fully alive -[4366.02 --> 4366.70] to the glory -[4366.70 --> 4367.62] of God. -[4368.64 --> 4369.44] That's why it's -[4369.44 --> 4370.00] the believer -[4370.00 --> 4371.10] who knows -[4371.10 --> 4371.70] that God has -[4371.70 --> 4372.50] knit us together -[4372.50 --> 4373.64] in our mother's wombs. -[4373.86 --> 4374.54] That's why it's -[4374.54 --> 4375.08] the believer -[4375.08 --> 4376.32] who can praise God -[4376.32 --> 4377.02] because she is -[4377.02 --> 4377.48] fearfully -[4377.48 --> 4378.86] and wonderfully made. -[4379.12 --> 4379.68] That's why it's -[4379.68 --> 4380.22] the believer -[4380.22 --> 4380.74] who knows -[4380.74 --> 4381.56] that personhood -[4381.56 --> 4382.48] or that humanity, -[4382.98 --> 4383.82] that story -[4383.82 --> 4384.62] and life -[4384.62 --> 4385.26] are rooted -[4385.26 --> 4386.38] not in -[4386.38 --> 4388.68] my physical expression, -[4388.86 --> 4389.42] but actually -[4389.42 --> 4390.90] in the being -[4390.90 --> 4391.46] of God. -[4392.84 --> 4393.48] That's why -[4393.48 --> 4394.24] believers are -[4394.24 --> 4394.96] for life -[4394.96 --> 4396.08] from conception -[4396.08 --> 4397.04] to death -[4397.04 --> 4398.08] and it has -[4398.08 --> 4398.86] nothing to do -[4398.86 --> 4399.48] with your body -[4399.48 --> 4400.14] or my body. -[4400.90 --> 4401.76] It has everything -[4401.76 --> 4402.32] to do -[4402.32 --> 4403.62] with who God is -[4403.62 --> 4405.56] and what your -[4405.56 --> 4406.62] identity in him -[4406.62 --> 4408.10] is rooted in. -[4408.78 --> 4409.42] That's why -[4409.42 --> 4410.18] it's the believer -[4410.18 --> 4411.56] who can say, -[4412.12 --> 4412.64] how precious -[4412.64 --> 4413.34] to me -[4413.34 --> 4414.40] are your thoughts, -[4415.04 --> 4415.56] O God. -[4416.92 --> 4417.80] Now that one line -[4417.80 --> 4418.72] is worth drilling down -[4418.72 --> 4419.50] for just a second. -[4419.62 --> 4420.42] That's verse 17. -[4422.42 --> 4423.04] How precious -[4423.04 --> 4423.62] to me -[4423.62 --> 4424.42] are your thoughts, -[4424.56 --> 4424.98] O God. -[4424.98 --> 4426.20] how vast -[4426.20 --> 4427.50] the sum of them. -[4429.52 --> 4430.42] Now in this psalm, -[4431.56 --> 4432.18] David has written -[4432.18 --> 4432.70] for us, -[4434.04 --> 4435.64] what have been -[4435.64 --> 4436.34] the thoughts -[4436.34 --> 4436.96] of God -[4436.96 --> 4437.50] about? -[4438.04 --> 4438.98] Or more precisely, -[4439.50 --> 4440.84] who have been -[4440.84 --> 4441.36] the thoughts -[4441.36 --> 4442.02] of God about? -[4443.02 --> 4443.88] In this psalm, -[4443.98 --> 4445.30] who is in the mind -[4445.30 --> 4445.80] of God? -[4446.66 --> 4447.90] It's the psalmist. -[4448.14 --> 4448.86] It's David. -[4450.64 --> 4451.82] It's the believer -[4451.82 --> 4453.00] who praises God. -[4453.38 --> 4454.66] David is cherishing -[4454.66 --> 4455.26] the thoughts -[4455.26 --> 4455.92] of God -[4455.92 --> 4456.54] because -[4456.54 --> 4458.20] in this moment, -[4458.46 --> 4459.40] he is recognizing -[4459.40 --> 4460.42] that those thoughts -[4460.42 --> 4461.04] are God -[4461.04 --> 4461.78] thinking about -[4461.78 --> 4462.48] how cherished -[4462.48 --> 4463.40] David is to him. -[4465.36 --> 4466.08] And when you -[4466.08 --> 4466.86] are the object -[4466.86 --> 4467.72] of God's love -[4467.72 --> 4468.28] and affection, -[4468.54 --> 4469.16] when you are -[4469.16 --> 4469.74] the recipient -[4469.74 --> 4470.48] of his grace -[4470.48 --> 4471.30] and his mercy, -[4471.30 --> 4472.14] when you have been -[4472.14 --> 4473.42] on the mind of God -[4473.42 --> 4473.98] so that you have -[4473.98 --> 4475.02] received his gift -[4475.02 --> 4475.70] of salvation, -[4475.96 --> 4477.34] there is no more -[4477.34 --> 4478.24] precious thought -[4478.24 --> 4478.84] to you -[4478.84 --> 4479.90] or to me -[4479.90 --> 4481.06] than the believer -[4481.06 --> 4482.92] who recognizes -[4482.92 --> 4484.18] this truth -[4484.18 --> 4485.22] and that this is -[4485.22 --> 4486.72] what God -[4486.72 --> 4487.78] has been -[4487.78 --> 4488.78] thinking about. -[4489.68 --> 4489.98] You. -[4491.26 --> 4491.70] You. -[4494.12 --> 4494.40] And so, -[4494.58 --> 4496.32] the praise testimony -[4496.32 --> 4497.96] of this third section -[4497.96 --> 4498.86] of verse 13 -[4498.86 --> 4499.98] through 18 -[4499.98 --> 4501.16] will naturally -[4501.16 --> 4502.12] flow out -[4502.12 --> 4502.68] if -[4502.68 --> 4503.50] verses 1 -[4503.50 --> 4504.10] through 12 -[4504.10 --> 4504.86] are true. -[4506.42 --> 4506.66] Right? -[4506.66 --> 4507.62] Since God knows -[4507.62 --> 4508.64] everything about you -[4508.64 --> 4509.28] and since God -[4509.28 --> 4509.82] is everywhere -[4509.82 --> 4510.64] with you -[4510.64 --> 4511.46] and those realities -[4511.46 --> 4512.20] come together -[4512.20 --> 4512.88] in you -[4512.88 --> 4514.12] and in your story -[4514.12 --> 4515.16] to bring out -[4515.16 --> 4516.40] comfort and peace, -[4516.48 --> 4517.36] to bring praise -[4517.36 --> 4518.68] out of who you are -[4518.68 --> 4519.78] even in the darkest -[4519.78 --> 4520.66] of circumstances. -[4528.14 --> 4529.08] This is the -[4529.08 --> 4530.34] gift -[4530.34 --> 4531.82] of the truth -[4531.82 --> 4533.34] of God's word -[4533.34 --> 4534.16] showing us -[4534.16 --> 4534.70] the truth -[4534.70 --> 4535.94] of who God is -[4535.94 --> 4536.40] so that we -[4536.40 --> 4536.66] can see -[4536.66 --> 4537.22] the truth -[4537.22 --> 4538.24] of who we -[4538.24 --> 4538.56] are -[4538.56 --> 4539.90] in relationship -[4539.90 --> 4540.30] to him. -[4541.90 --> 4542.66] God knows -[4542.66 --> 4543.74] everything about you -[4543.74 --> 4544.96] and God is -[4544.96 --> 4545.46] everywhere -[4545.46 --> 4546.54] with you -[4546.54 --> 4547.02] and so -[4547.02 --> 4547.52] we have -[4547.52 --> 4548.02] comfort -[4548.02 --> 4548.92] and peace -[4548.92 --> 4549.34] and we'll -[4549.34 --> 4549.96] praise God -[4549.96 --> 4550.78] for who he is -[4550.78 --> 4552.60] and so -[4552.60 --> 4553.08] lastly, -[4553.54 --> 4555.00] God will -[4555.00 --> 4555.90] deal with -[4555.90 --> 4557.08] everyone. -[4558.84 --> 4559.34] Now, -[4559.38 --> 4559.80] this is the -[4559.80 --> 4560.14] part of -[4560.14 --> 4561.40] Psalm 139 -[4561.40 --> 4562.12] that most people -[4562.12 --> 4562.82] forget about -[4562.82 --> 4564.36] or that most -[4564.36 --> 4565.06] people ignore -[4565.06 --> 4566.08] or don't read. -[4567.44 --> 4568.26] In some other -[4568.26 --> 4569.04] church traditions -[4569.04 --> 4569.62] and older -[4569.62 --> 4570.56] Reformed traditions -[4570.56 --> 4571.18] when we used -[4571.18 --> 4571.54] to sing -[4571.54 --> 4572.52] only the Psalms, -[4572.86 --> 4573.70] this is the -[4573.70 --> 4575.42] 18th -[4575.42 --> 4576.70] to 20th -[4576.70 --> 4576.98] verses -[4576.98 --> 4577.62] that you -[4577.62 --> 4578.24] wouldn't sing -[4578.24 --> 4579.08] on Sunday -[4579.08 --> 4579.76] because it was -[4579.76 --> 4580.30] too long. -[4580.78 --> 4581.24] Really, -[4581.38 --> 4581.68] it's because -[4581.68 --> 4582.00] it made us -[4582.00 --> 4582.42] uncomfortable -[4582.42 --> 4583.38] and we don't -[4583.38 --> 4583.86] like it. -[4584.70 --> 4585.32] When people -[4585.32 --> 4586.76] say Psalm 139 -[4586.76 --> 4587.54] is their favorite, -[4587.76 --> 4588.22] they usually -[4588.22 --> 4589.18] mean verse 13 -[4589.18 --> 4589.74] and 14, -[4589.74 --> 4590.62] for you created -[4590.62 --> 4591.10] me in my -[4591.10 --> 4591.66] inmost being, -[4591.76 --> 4592.12] you knit me -[4592.12 --> 4592.72] together in my -[4592.72 --> 4593.18] mother's womb, -[4593.24 --> 4593.86] I praise you -[4593.86 --> 4594.38] because I am -[4594.38 --> 4595.00] fearfully and -[4595.00 --> 4595.72] wonderfully made, -[4596.10 --> 4596.78] your works are -[4596.78 --> 4597.14] wonderful, -[4597.26 --> 4597.76] I know that -[4597.76 --> 4598.22] full well. -[4598.56 --> 4599.52] Sometimes they -[4599.52 --> 4600.26] mean the first -[4600.26 --> 4601.12] three sections -[4601.12 --> 4603.70] but most often -[4603.70 --> 4605.64] not these -[4605.64 --> 4605.96] verses. -[4607.36 --> 4608.12] And maybe -[4608.12 --> 4608.88] it feels like -[4608.88 --> 4609.48] there's a shift -[4609.48 --> 4610.68] in tone here -[4610.68 --> 4611.38] in this fourth -[4611.38 --> 4612.22] and final section -[4612.22 --> 4612.84] but I actually -[4612.84 --> 4613.72] want to suggest -[4613.72 --> 4614.18] to you that -[4614.18 --> 4614.74] the tone -[4614.74 --> 4615.74] is just -[4615.74 --> 4616.46] reaching -[4616.46 --> 4617.20] logical -[4617.20 --> 4618.04] consequence. -[4619.74 --> 4620.84] If it is true -[4620.84 --> 4621.74] or since -[4621.74 --> 4622.54] it is true -[4622.54 --> 4623.46] that God -[4623.46 --> 4624.46] knows everything -[4624.46 --> 4625.24] about you, -[4625.64 --> 4626.52] that he sees -[4626.52 --> 4627.06] the depths -[4627.06 --> 4627.92] of your heart, -[4628.24 --> 4629.06] since it is true -[4629.06 --> 4629.74] that God is -[4629.74 --> 4630.34] with you -[4630.34 --> 4631.12] everywhere, -[4631.30 --> 4631.56] that there's -[4631.56 --> 4632.14] no place -[4632.14 --> 4632.56] where you are -[4632.56 --> 4633.16] able to flee -[4633.16 --> 4634.08] from his presence, -[4635.70 --> 4636.48] it must also -[4636.48 --> 4637.02] be true -[4637.02 --> 4638.10] that the -[4638.10 --> 4639.14] injustices -[4639.14 --> 4640.76] seen, -[4641.34 --> 4641.88] that the -[4641.88 --> 4642.52] atrocities -[4642.52 --> 4643.20] committed, -[4643.34 --> 4643.58] that the -[4643.58 --> 4644.44] realities of -[4644.44 --> 4645.00] sin and -[4645.00 --> 4645.40] darkness -[4645.40 --> 4646.10] that are so -[4646.10 --> 4647.06] clear and -[4647.06 --> 4648.08] so exposed -[4648.08 --> 4648.72] to who God -[4648.72 --> 4649.08] is, -[4649.48 --> 4650.42] must be -[4650.42 --> 4651.40] dealt with. -[4652.98 --> 4653.66] They must -[4653.66 --> 4653.88] be. -[4655.12 --> 4655.80] If God -[4655.80 --> 4656.36] were to see -[4656.36 --> 4657.14] those things -[4657.14 --> 4657.94] and not -[4657.94 --> 4658.48] deal with -[4658.48 --> 4658.70] them, -[4659.54 --> 4660.62] that would -[4660.62 --> 4661.02] mean he's -[4661.02 --> 4661.58] an unjust -[4661.58 --> 4662.04] God. -[4662.64 --> 4662.94] But that's -[4662.94 --> 4663.26] not the God -[4663.26 --> 4663.70] I read about -[4663.70 --> 4664.16] in the Bible. -[4664.86 --> 4665.36] That would -[4665.36 --> 4665.72] mean he's -[4665.72 --> 4666.48] an unrighteous -[4666.48 --> 4666.84] God. -[4666.92 --> 4667.18] But again, -[4667.24 --> 4667.46] that's not -[4667.46 --> 4667.68] the God -[4667.68 --> 4668.20] I read about -[4668.20 --> 4669.36] in the Bible. -[4670.18 --> 4670.72] In short, -[4670.84 --> 4671.12] if God -[4671.12 --> 4671.54] were to see -[4671.54 --> 4672.02] those things -[4672.02 --> 4672.58] and then not -[4672.58 --> 4673.06] deal with -[4673.06 --> 4673.22] them, -[4673.36 --> 4673.80] he would -[4673.80 --> 4674.36] no longer -[4674.36 --> 4675.34] be God. -[4675.42 --> 4675.76] And that -[4675.76 --> 4676.44] cannot -[4676.44 --> 4678.12] be true. -[4679.68 --> 4679.96] And so -[4679.96 --> 4680.30] the real -[4680.30 --> 4681.34] question for -[4681.34 --> 4682.50] us as we -[4682.50 --> 4683.00] enter into -[4683.00 --> 4683.60] this moment -[4683.60 --> 4684.84] is will -[4684.84 --> 4685.84] our sins, -[4686.04 --> 4686.54] will our -[4686.54 --> 4687.28] darknesses, -[4687.34 --> 4687.62] will the -[4687.62 --> 4688.52] injustice of -[4688.52 --> 4688.92] our own -[4688.92 --> 4689.26] heart, -[4689.48 --> 4689.98] will they -[4689.98 --> 4690.68] be dealt -[4690.68 --> 4691.60] with on -[4691.60 --> 4692.24] the cross -[4692.24 --> 4693.26] by Jesus -[4693.26 --> 4695.34] or will -[4695.34 --> 4696.20] they be dealt -[4696.20 --> 4697.20] with on -[4697.20 --> 4697.54] the day of -[4697.54 --> 4697.86] judgment? -[4699.20 --> 4699.78] Because make -[4699.78 --> 4700.38] no mistake, -[4700.78 --> 4701.26] because of -[4701.26 --> 4701.62] who God -[4701.62 --> 4701.92] is, -[4702.04 --> 4702.48] they will -[4702.48 --> 4703.02] be dealt -[4703.02 --> 4703.36] with. -[4705.34 --> 4706.26] The question -[4706.26 --> 4707.04] of grace -[4707.04 --> 4707.54] for us -[4707.54 --> 4708.10] this morning -[4708.10 --> 4709.28] is by -[4709.28 --> 4709.60] whom? -[4711.92 --> 4712.82] Who will -[4712.82 --> 4714.72] deal with -[4714.72 --> 4714.96] them? -[4716.24 --> 4716.88] Because this -[4716.88 --> 4718.20] is exactly -[4718.20 --> 4718.60] where the -[4718.60 --> 4719.28] gospel gets -[4719.28 --> 4719.80] its legs. -[4720.66 --> 4721.10] This is where -[4721.10 --> 4721.48] the truth -[4721.48 --> 4721.82] of God -[4721.82 --> 4722.54] stands apart -[4722.54 --> 4723.26] from any -[4723.26 --> 4723.80] other news -[4723.80 --> 4724.02] that you -[4724.02 --> 4724.30] have ever -[4724.30 --> 4724.58] heard. -[4725.94 --> 4726.92] Hebrews 4 -[4726.92 --> 4727.60] verse 13 -[4727.60 --> 4727.98] says, -[4728.78 --> 4729.44] nothing in -[4729.44 --> 4730.22] all creation -[4730.22 --> 4730.64] is hidden -[4730.64 --> 4731.38] from God's -[4731.38 --> 4731.62] sight. -[4732.08 --> 4732.46] Everything -[4732.46 --> 4733.20] is uncovered -[4733.20 --> 4733.94] and laid -[4733.94 --> 4734.56] bare before -[4734.56 --> 4735.26] the eyes -[4735.26 --> 4735.64] of him -[4735.64 --> 4736.28] to whom -[4736.28 --> 4737.00] we must -[4737.00 --> 4737.74] give account. -[4738.14 --> 4738.68] The question -[4738.68 --> 4739.06] is, -[4739.74 --> 4740.46] when God -[4740.46 --> 4740.84] looks at -[4740.84 --> 4741.18] you, -[4741.88 --> 4742.46] will he -[4742.46 --> 4742.84] see -[4742.84 --> 4743.94] Jesus? -[4745.16 --> 4746.02] Because that's -[4746.02 --> 4746.56] what happens -[4746.56 --> 4747.30] in the great -[4747.30 --> 4747.88] exchange of -[4747.88 --> 4748.34] the gospel. -[4748.94 --> 4749.88] Jesus comes -[4749.88 --> 4750.44] into the -[4750.44 --> 4750.80] world and -[4750.80 --> 4751.48] he lives -[4751.48 --> 4751.92] the life -[4751.92 --> 4752.34] I should -[4752.34 --> 4752.70] have lived, -[4753.06 --> 4753.50] perfectly -[4753.50 --> 4754.46] keeping all -[4754.46 --> 4755.04] the commands -[4755.04 --> 4755.72] of God, -[4755.92 --> 4756.30] perfectly -[4756.30 --> 4757.12] living in -[4757.12 --> 4757.68] righteousness -[4757.68 --> 4758.76] every day -[4758.76 --> 4759.18] and in -[4759.18 --> 4759.80] every way. -[4760.16 --> 4760.40] And by -[4760.40 --> 4761.04] grace through -[4761.04 --> 4762.24] faith unites -[4762.24 --> 4763.04] me to -[4763.04 --> 4763.42] his -[4763.42 --> 4764.16] perfection. -[4765.08 --> 4766.12] Faith grants -[4766.12 --> 4766.68] me his -[4766.68 --> 4767.42] perfection. -[4767.64 --> 4768.08] The perfect -[4768.08 --> 4768.58] righteousness -[4768.58 --> 4769.28] of Jesus -[4769.28 --> 4769.96] is counted -[4769.96 --> 4770.80] in my -[4770.80 --> 4771.52] place. -[4773.30 --> 4773.70] And then, -[4774.58 --> 4776.30] all those -[4776.30 --> 4776.88] things that -[4776.88 --> 4777.56] God sees -[4777.56 --> 4777.88] when he -[4777.88 --> 4778.48] looks at -[4778.48 --> 4779.48] my heart, -[4779.54 --> 4779.72] at the -[4779.72 --> 4780.78] truth and -[4780.78 --> 4781.68] the depths -[4781.68 --> 4782.12] of my -[4782.12 --> 4782.40] own -[4782.40 --> 4783.34] brokenness -[4783.34 --> 4783.94] and sin -[4783.94 --> 4784.50] and darkness, -[4784.62 --> 4785.04] all of -[4785.04 --> 4785.54] those things -[4785.54 --> 4786.22] that God -[4786.22 --> 4786.74] sees when -[4786.74 --> 4787.16] he looks -[4787.16 --> 4787.50] into the -[4787.50 --> 4788.00] very depths -[4788.00 --> 4788.46] of my -[4788.46 --> 4788.92] being, -[4788.92 --> 4789.76] all of -[4789.76 --> 4790.38] those things -[4790.38 --> 4791.46] are given -[4791.46 --> 4791.90] over to -[4791.90 --> 4792.84] Christ on -[4792.84 --> 4793.38] the cross -[4793.38 --> 4793.94] as he -[4793.94 --> 4794.48] bears the -[4794.48 --> 4794.92] punishment -[4794.92 --> 4795.90] for them, -[4795.94 --> 4796.38] as he -[4796.38 --> 4797.08] endures the -[4797.08 --> 4797.90] death that -[4797.90 --> 4798.70] I deserve. -[4800.12 --> 4800.64] And when -[4800.64 --> 4801.08] that is -[4801.08 --> 4801.50] true for -[4801.50 --> 4801.80] you, -[4802.74 --> 4803.68] if that -[4803.68 --> 4804.12] is true -[4804.12 --> 4804.64] for you, -[4805.28 --> 4805.64] then it's -[4805.64 --> 4806.18] no wonder -[4806.18 --> 4806.96] that we -[4806.96 --> 4807.44] can say -[4807.44 --> 4807.92] with the -[4807.92 --> 4808.28] psalmist, -[4808.48 --> 4809.14] how precious -[4809.14 --> 4809.72] are your -[4809.72 --> 4810.04] thoughts, -[4810.16 --> 4810.56] oh God. -[4810.78 --> 4811.40] No wonder -[4811.40 --> 4812.26] we can say -[4812.26 --> 4812.68] with the -[4812.68 --> 4812.98] psalmist, -[4813.08 --> 4813.66] I praise -[4813.66 --> 4814.10] you because -[4814.10 --> 4814.40] I am -[4814.40 --> 4814.94] fearfully -[4814.94 --> 4815.86] and wonderfully -[4815.86 --> 4816.16] made. -[4816.22 --> 4816.62] No wonder -[4816.62 --> 4817.42] we can say -[4817.42 --> 4817.74] with the -[4817.74 --> 4818.04] psalmist, -[4818.20 --> 4819.06] such knowledge -[4819.06 --> 4819.92] is too -[4819.92 --> 4820.42] wonderful -[4820.42 --> 4821.34] for me. -[4822.50 --> 4822.74] You see, -[4822.80 --> 4823.28] the gospel -[4823.28 --> 4823.82] of Jesus -[4823.82 --> 4824.92] brings comfort -[4824.92 --> 4825.60] and peace -[4825.60 --> 4826.38] because God -[4826.38 --> 4827.86] sees everything -[4827.86 --> 4828.98] in you -[4828.98 --> 4830.24] and he -[4830.24 --> 4831.62] loves you. -[4834.18 --> 4835.12] He has -[4835.12 --> 4835.66] shown you -[4835.66 --> 4836.28] that love -[4836.28 --> 4837.54] in Jesus -[4837.54 --> 4838.02] Christ. -[4839.24 --> 4839.94] The gospel -[4839.94 --> 4840.70] brings comfort -[4840.70 --> 4841.36] and peace -[4841.36 --> 4842.24] because God -[4842.24 --> 4843.02] is present -[4843.02 --> 4844.12] with you -[4844.12 --> 4845.16] everywhere -[4845.16 --> 4846.72] knowing what -[4846.72 --> 4847.26] it is -[4847.26 --> 4848.16] to feel -[4848.16 --> 4848.74] and to -[4848.74 --> 4849.40] experience -[4849.40 --> 4849.76] knowing -[4849.76 --> 4850.22] whatever -[4850.22 --> 4850.78] it is -[4850.78 --> 4851.34] you feel -[4851.34 --> 4852.36] and experience -[4852.36 --> 4852.92] and he -[4852.92 --> 4853.54] has shown -[4853.54 --> 4853.94] you that -[4853.94 --> 4854.44] truth -[4854.44 --> 4855.40] in Jesus -[4855.40 --> 4855.88] Christ. -[4856.96 --> 4857.82] The only -[4857.82 --> 4858.66] question left -[4858.66 --> 4859.10] is how -[4859.10 --> 4859.76] will you -[4859.76 --> 4860.62] respond? -[4862.06 --> 4862.56] In this -[4862.56 --> 4862.92] place -[4862.92 --> 4863.22] we -[4863.22 --> 4864.04] worship. -[4864.96 --> 4865.48] Together -[4865.48 --> 4866.06] we gather -[4866.06 --> 4866.40] and we -[4866.40 --> 4867.00] give God -[4867.00 --> 4868.00] glory but -[4868.00 --> 4868.82] your response -[4868.82 --> 4870.08] also matters -[4870.08 --> 4870.46] when you -[4870.46 --> 4871.14] go from -[4871.14 --> 4871.52] this -[4871.52 --> 4872.28] place. -[4872.28 --> 4874.36] David -[4874.36 --> 4874.76] says -[4874.76 --> 4876.70] do I -[4876.70 --> 4877.16] not hate -[4877.16 --> 4877.64] those -[4877.64 --> 4878.36] who hate -[4878.36 --> 4878.52] you -[4878.52 --> 4878.76] Lord -[4878.76 --> 4879.74] and -[4879.74 --> 4880.08] abhor -[4880.08 --> 4880.46] those -[4880.46 --> 4880.60] who -[4880.60 --> 4880.76] are -[4880.76 --> 4880.88] in -[4880.88 --> 4881.22] rebellion -[4881.22 --> 4881.62] against -[4881.62 --> 4881.92] you? -[4883.36 --> 4883.66] Because -[4883.66 --> 4884.16] God -[4884.16 --> 4884.50] loves -[4884.50 --> 4884.82] you -[4884.82 --> 4885.12] you -[4885.12 --> 4885.58] love -[4885.58 --> 4885.88] what -[4885.88 --> 4886.42] God -[4886.42 --> 4886.96] loves -[4886.96 --> 4887.48] and -[4887.48 --> 4887.80] you -[4887.80 --> 4888.06] ought -[4888.06 --> 4888.28] to -[4888.28 --> 4888.74] flee -[4888.74 --> 4889.30] from -[4889.30 --> 4889.82] what -[4889.82 --> 4890.12] he -[4890.12 --> 4890.80] doesn't. -[4891.98 --> 4892.16] You -[4892.16 --> 4892.30] ought -[4892.30 --> 4892.72] to flee -[4892.72 --> 4893.16] from -[4893.16 --> 4893.38] what -[4893.38 --> 4893.48] it -[4893.48 --> 4893.68] is -[4893.68 --> 4893.84] that -[4893.84 --> 4894.16] God -[4894.16 --> 4894.98] abhors. -[4896.30 --> 4896.84] Search -[4896.84 --> 4897.06] me -[4897.06 --> 4897.34] God -[4897.34 --> 4897.52] and -[4897.52 --> 4897.96] know -[4897.96 --> 4898.22] my -[4898.22 --> 4898.42] heart -[4898.42 --> 4898.84] test -[4898.84 --> 4899.08] me -[4899.08 --> 4899.30] and -[4899.30 --> 4899.48] know -[4899.48 --> 4899.68] my -[4899.68 --> 4899.98] anxious -[4899.98 --> 4900.36] thoughts -[4900.36 --> 4901.38] see if -[4901.38 --> 4901.70] there is -[4901.70 --> 4902.08] any -[4902.08 --> 4902.68] offensive -[4902.68 --> 4903.18] way -[4903.18 --> 4903.72] in -[4903.72 --> 4903.92] me -[4903.92 --> 4904.14] and -[4904.14 --> 4904.58] lead -[4904.58 --> 4904.88] me -[4904.88 --> 4905.08] in -[4905.08 --> 4905.20] the -[4905.20 --> 4905.56] way -[4905.56 --> 4906.62] everlasting. -[4908.34 --> 4908.98] Our -[4908.98 --> 4909.50] life -[4909.50 --> 4909.88] lived -[4909.88 --> 4910.30] together -[4910.30 --> 4910.70] and -[4910.70 --> 4910.94] out -[4910.94 --> 4911.18] in -[4911.18 --> 4911.34] the -[4911.34 --> 4911.64] world -[4911.64 --> 4912.00] ought -[4912.00 --> 4912.28] to -[4912.28 --> 4912.66] be -[4912.66 --> 4913.22] a -[4913.22 --> 4913.70] pleasing -[4913.70 --> 4914.34] aroma -[4914.34 --> 4914.62] to -[4914.62 --> 4914.78] the -[4914.78 --> 4915.02] Lord. -[4916.38 --> 4916.94] That's -[4916.94 --> 4917.42] how -[4917.42 --> 4917.82] and why -[4917.82 --> 4918.28] worship -[4918.28 --> 4918.94] starts -[4918.94 --> 4919.36] here -[4919.36 --> 4919.82] in -[4919.82 --> 4920.06] this -[4920.06 --> 4920.36] place -[4920.36 --> 4920.54] but -[4920.54 --> 4920.76] that's -[4920.76 --> 4921.06] also -[4921.06 --> 4921.34] how -[4921.34 --> 4921.58] it -[4921.58 --> 4921.82] then -[4921.82 --> 4922.58] continues -[4922.58 --> 4923.30] for -[4923.30 --> 4923.42] the -[4923.42 --> 4923.58] next -[4923.58 --> 4923.84] six -[4923.84 --> 4924.20] days -[4924.20 --> 4924.68] until -[4924.68 --> 4924.88] we -[4924.88 --> 4925.12] gather -[4925.12 --> 4925.52] again. -[4925.52 --> 4930.16] maybe -[4930.16 --> 4931.44] today -[4931.44 --> 4933.06] it's -[4933.06 --> 4933.40] time -[4933.40 --> 4933.62] to -[4933.62 --> 4934.00] stop -[4934.00 --> 4934.66] hiding -[4934.66 --> 4935.46] under -[4935.46 --> 4935.66] a -[4935.66 --> 4935.88] clear -[4935.88 --> 4936.18] rubber -[4936.18 --> 4936.42] made -[4936.42 --> 4936.72] tote -[4936.72 --> 4939.10] because -[4939.10 --> 4939.28] God -[4939.28 --> 4939.60] sees -[4939.60 --> 4939.84] you. -[4940.76 --> 4941.22] He -[4941.22 --> 4941.54] sees -[4941.54 --> 4941.70] you. -[4941.76 --> 4941.82] He -[4941.82 --> 4942.04] knows -[4942.04 --> 4942.54] everything -[4942.54 --> 4943.34] about -[4943.34 --> 4943.66] you. -[4944.66 --> 4944.90] By -[4944.90 --> 4945.14] his -[4945.14 --> 4945.58] grace -[4945.58 --> 4946.76] he -[4946.76 --> 4947.00] loves -[4947.00 --> 4947.28] you. -[4949.08 --> 4949.62] God -[4949.62 --> 4949.72] is -[4949.72 --> 4950.10] everywhere -[4950.10 --> 4950.86] with -[4950.86 --> 4951.04] you -[4951.04 --> 4951.14] and -[4951.14 --> 4951.22] he -[4951.22 --> 4951.32] will -[4951.32 --> 4951.48] never -[4951.48 --> 4951.94] leave -[4951.94 --> 4952.26] you -[4952.26 --> 4952.88] nor -[4952.88 --> 4953.30] forsake -[4953.30 --> 4953.48] you -[4953.48 --> 4953.58] and -[4953.58 --> 4953.76] he -[4953.76 --> 4954.04] will -[4954.04 --> 4954.60] deal -[4954.60 --> 4955.14] with -[4955.14 --> 4956.06] everyone -[4956.06 --> 4956.36] either -[4956.36 --> 4956.72] on the -[4956.72 --> 4957.16] cross -[4957.16 --> 4957.52] or -[4957.52 --> 4958.22] on -[4958.22 --> 4958.40] that -[4958.40 --> 4958.66] day -[4958.66 --> 4958.98] to -[4958.98 --> 4959.28] come -[4959.28 --> 4959.70] and -[4959.70 --> 4960.22] all -[4960.22 --> 4960.52] of -[4960.52 --> 4961.00] this -[4961.00 --> 4962.48] is -[4962.48 --> 4962.68] for -[4962.68 --> 4962.90] your -[4962.90 --> 4963.30] comfort -[4963.30 --> 4964.64] and -[4964.64 --> 4965.08] peace. -[4965.74 --> 4966.04] Amen? -[4967.32 --> 4967.88] Join -[4967.88 --> 4968.10] your heart -[4968.10 --> 4968.30] with me -[4968.30 --> 4968.42] in -[4968.42 --> 4968.62] prayer. -[4977.62 --> 4978.30] Lord -[4978.30 --> 4978.44] our -[4978.44 --> 4978.68] God -[4978.68 --> 4981.26] help -[4981.26 --> 4981.82] us -[4981.82 --> 4982.28] to -[4982.28 --> 4983.48] know -[4983.48 --> 4984.08] the -[4984.08 --> 4984.48] comfort -[4984.48 --> 4985.16] and -[4985.16 --> 4985.66] peace -[4985.66 --> 4986.10] that -[4986.10 --> 4986.58] comes -[4986.58 --> 4986.82] from -[4986.82 --> 4987.18] being -[4987.18 --> 4987.78] known -[4987.78 --> 4988.54] by -[4988.54 --> 4989.06] you. -[4992.48 --> 4993.18] This -[4993.18 --> 4993.54] morning -[4993.54 --> 4996.46] if we -[4996.46 --> 4996.60] are -[4996.60 --> 4997.12] unsure -[4997.12 --> 4998.44] or if -[4998.44 --> 4998.56] we -[4998.56 --> 4998.74] have -[4998.74 --> 4999.00] never -[4999.00 --> 4999.34] made -[4999.34 --> 4999.66] that -[4999.66 --> 5000.56] profession -[5000.56 --> 5002.02] this -[5002.02 --> 5002.34] morning -[5002.34 --> 5002.76] if -[5002.76 --> 5002.92] we -[5002.92 --> 5003.12] are -[5003.12 --> 5003.86] feeling -[5003.86 --> 5004.18] your -[5004.18 --> 5004.78] spirit -[5004.78 --> 5005.46] tug -[5005.46 --> 5005.66] at -[5005.66 --> 5005.84] our -[5005.84 --> 5006.36] hearts -[5006.36 --> 5008.44] this -[5008.44 --> 5008.76] morning -[5008.76 --> 5009.02] I -[5009.02 --> 5009.28] pray -[5009.28 --> 5009.52] Lord -[5009.52 --> 5009.76] God -[5009.76 --> 5009.92] you -[5009.92 --> 5010.08] would -[5010.08 --> 5010.34] take -[5010.34 --> 5010.66] this -[5010.66 --> 5011.12] truth -[5011.12 --> 5011.40] and -[5011.40 --> 5011.68] make -[5011.68 --> 5011.86] it -[5011.86 --> 5012.16] the -[5012.16 --> 5012.64] most -[5012.64 --> 5013.54] real -[5013.54 --> 5013.88] and -[5013.88 --> 5014.46] compelling -[5014.46 --> 5015.36] truth -[5015.36 --> 5015.62] in -[5015.62 --> 5015.82] our -[5015.82 --> 5016.20] minds -[5016.20 --> 5016.60] today -[5016.60 --> 5020.78] help -[5020.78 --> 5021.02] us -[5021.02 --> 5021.72] to see -[5021.72 --> 5022.30] today -[5022.30 --> 5022.62] that -[5022.62 --> 5022.98] you -[5022.98 --> 5024.02] are -[5024.02 --> 5025.38] here -[5025.38 --> 5026.48] that -[5026.48 --> 5026.64] you -[5026.64 --> 5027.18] see -[5027.18 --> 5028.12] us -[5028.12 --> 5028.60] and -[5028.60 --> 5028.76] that -[5028.76 --> 5028.90] you -[5028.90 --> 5029.16] go -[5029.16 --> 5029.64] with -[5029.64 --> 5030.28] us -[5030.28 --> 5030.80] and -[5030.80 --> 5030.98] then -[5030.98 --> 5031.32] help -[5031.32 --> 5031.78] us -[5031.78 --> 5032.10] to -[5032.10 --> 5032.74] live -[5032.74 --> 5033.34] out -[5033.34 --> 5033.68] of -[5033.68 --> 5034.00] the -[5034.00 --> 5034.70] truth -[5034.70 --> 5035.04] of -[5035.04 --> 5035.30] that -[5035.30 --> 5035.78] reality -[5035.78 --> 5035.98] the -[5035.98 --> 5036.22] truth -[5036.22 --> 5036.38] of -[5036.38 --> 5037.12] who -[5037.12 --> 5037.36] you -[5037.36 --> 5037.60] have -[5037.60 --> 5038.14] created -[5038.14 --> 5038.68] us -[5038.68 --> 5039.28] to -[5039.28 --> 5039.64] be -[5039.64 --> 5040.54] of -[5040.54 --> 5041.08] who -[5041.08 --> 5041.34] you -[5041.34 --> 5041.60] have -[5041.60 --> 5042.20] redeemed -[5042.20 --> 5042.70] us -[5042.70 --> 5043.08] in -[5043.08 --> 5043.40] Jesus -[5043.40 --> 5043.92] Christ -[5043.92 --> 5044.72] to -[5044.72 --> 5044.92] be -[5044.92 --> 5047.74] we -[5047.74 --> 5047.96] come -[5047.96 --> 5048.16] to -[5048.16 --> 5048.46] you -[5048.46 --> 5048.76] for -[5048.76 --> 5049.20] comfort -[5049.20 --> 5049.72] and -[5049.72 --> 5050.08] peace -[5050.08 --> 5050.34] and -[5050.34 --> 5050.74] so -[5050.74 --> 5051.52] meet -[5051.52 --> 5052.20] us -[5052.20 --> 5055.28] console -[5055.28 --> 5056.08] us -[5056.08 --> 5058.04] encourage -[5058.04 --> 5058.72] us -[5058.72 --> 5060.04] fill -[5060.04 --> 5060.26] us -[5060.26 --> 5060.56] up -[5060.56 --> 5061.62] and -[5061.62 --> 5062.04] send -[5062.04 --> 5062.28] us -[5062.28 --> 5062.66] out -[5062.66 --> 5063.18] in -[5063.18 --> 5063.32] the -[5063.32 --> 5063.72] power -[5063.72 --> 5064.42] of -[5064.42 --> 5064.62] your -[5064.62 --> 5064.96] name -[5064.96 --> 5065.52] and -[5065.52 --> 5065.66] the -[5065.66 --> 5066.44] power -[5066.44 --> 5067.18] the -[5067.18 --> 5067.70] truth -[5067.70 --> 5068.28] of -[5068.28 --> 5068.44] the -[5068.44 --> 5068.86] gospel -[5068.86 --> 5069.18] of -[5069.18 --> 5069.44] Jesus -[5069.44 --> 5069.92] Christ -[5069.92 --> 5070.32] in -[5070.32 --> 5070.72] whose -[5070.72 --> 5071.06] name -[5071.06 --> 5071.30] we -[5071.30 --> 5071.62] pray -[5071.62 --> 5072.86] amen -[5072.86 --> 5078.92] we -[5078.92 --> 5079.10] have -[5079.10 --> 5079.38] a -[5079.38 --> 5079.98] chance -[5079.98 --> 5080.26] to -[5080.26 --> 5081.56] come -[5081.56 --> 5081.74] to -[5081.74 --> 5081.98] this -[5081.98 --> 5082.44] table -[5082.44 --> 5083.84] wherein -[5083.84 --> 5085.20] God -[5085.20 --> 5085.68] sees -[5085.68 --> 5086.00] us -[5086.00 --> 5086.42] most -[5086.42 --> 5086.92] clearly -[5086.92 --> 5087.94] and -[5087.94 --> 5088.08] then -[5088.08 --> 5088.50] invites -[5088.50 --> 5088.72] us -[5088.72 --> 5088.90] to -[5088.90 --> 5089.16] join -[5089.16 --> 5089.34] him -[5089.34 --> 5089.60] here -[5089.60 --> 5091.46] wherein -[5091.46 --> 5091.94] we -[5091.94 --> 5092.46] recognize -[5092.46 --> 5093.20] that -[5093.20 --> 5094.28] there -[5094.28 --> 5094.56] are -[5094.56 --> 5095.20] still -[5095.20 --> 5095.62] and -[5095.62 --> 5096.38] ongoing -[5096.38 --> 5097.30] dark -[5097.30 --> 5097.80] corners -[5097.80 --> 5098.02] of -[5098.02 --> 5098.16] our -[5098.16 --> 5098.40] heart -[5098.40 --> 5098.56] that -[5098.56 --> 5098.76] we -[5098.76 --> 5099.18] have -[5099.18 --> 5099.76] refused -[5099.76 --> 5100.28] to -[5100.28 --> 5100.68] give -[5100.68 --> 5100.92] to -[5100.92 --> 5101.26] God -[5101.26 --> 5101.50] even -[5101.50 --> 5102.00] though -[5102.00 --> 5102.78] he -[5102.78 --> 5103.08] sees -[5103.08 --> 5103.32] them -[5103.32 --> 5104.68] we -[5104.68 --> 5104.90] come -[5104.90 --> 5105.30] here -[5105.30 --> 5105.56] that -[5105.56 --> 5105.70] we -[5105.70 --> 5105.96] might -[5105.96 --> 5106.72] receive -[5106.72 --> 5107.44] encouragement -[5107.44 --> 5108.58] to -[5108.58 --> 5109.30] receive -[5109.30 --> 5109.70] from -[5109.70 --> 5110.14] God -[5110.14 --> 5110.50] that -[5110.50 --> 5111.02] same -[5111.02 --> 5111.54] grace -[5111.54 --> 5111.74] that -[5111.74 --> 5111.84] he -[5111.84 --> 5111.98] has -[5111.98 --> 5112.32] offered -[5112.32 --> 5112.86] in -[5112.86 --> 5113.10] Jesus -[5113.10 --> 5113.48] Christ -[5113.48 --> 5113.68] that -[5113.68 --> 5113.92] same -[5113.92 --> 5114.48] encouragement -[5114.48 --> 5114.96] that -[5114.96 --> 5115.10] he -[5115.10 --> 5115.30] has -[5115.30 --> 5115.90] proclaimed -[5115.90 --> 5116.22] over -[5116.22 --> 5116.50] us -[5116.50 --> 5116.66] in -[5116.66 --> 5116.82] his -[5116.82 --> 5117.12] word -[5117.12 --> 5117.54] now -[5117.54 --> 5118.02] is -[5118.02 --> 5118.40] presented -[5118.40 --> 5118.72] at -[5118.72 --> 5118.96] this -[5118.96 --> 5119.36] table -[5119.36 --> 5120.54] as we -[5120.54 --> 5120.72] come -[5120.72 --> 5120.86] to -[5120.86 --> 5121.04] this -[5121.04 --> 5121.32] table -[5121.32 --> 5121.52] we -[5121.52 --> 5121.74] come -[5121.74 --> 5122.08] as a -[5122.08 --> 5122.32] church -[5122.32 --> 5122.80] family -[5122.80 --> 5123.34] as those -[5123.34 --> 5123.62] who -[5123.62 --> 5124.34] profess -[5124.34 --> 5124.66] to -[5124.66 --> 5125.12] believe -[5125.12 --> 5125.74] in -[5125.74 --> 5126.16] our -[5126.16 --> 5126.72] God -[5126.72 --> 5126.88] who -[5126.88 --> 5127.42] belong -[5127.42 --> 5127.88] in -[5127.88 --> 5128.22] covenant -[5128.22 --> 5128.86] relationship -[5128.86 --> 5129.50] to -[5129.50 --> 5129.72] him -[5129.72 --> 5130.42] and so -[5130.42 --> 5130.58] we -[5130.58 --> 5130.76] do -[5130.76 --> 5131.04] this -[5131.04 --> 5131.32] as -[5131.32 --> 5131.58] an -[5131.58 --> 5131.86] act -[5131.86 --> 5132.14] of -[5132.14 --> 5132.50] worship -[5132.50 --> 5132.96] together -[5132.96 --> 5133.74] and so -[5133.74 --> 5133.92] there -[5133.92 --> 5134.08] will -[5134.08 --> 5134.20] be -[5134.20 --> 5134.40] some -[5134.40 --> 5134.80] liturgy -[5134.80 --> 5135.04] and -[5135.04 --> 5135.32] words -[5135.32 --> 5135.50] for -[5135.50 --> 5135.68] you -[5135.68 --> 5135.88] to -[5135.88 --> 5136.26] speak -[5136.26 --> 5136.82] and -[5136.82 --> 5137.06] join -[5137.06 --> 5137.28] in -[5137.28 --> 5137.44] they -[5137.44 --> 5137.56] will -[5137.56 --> 5137.72] be -[5137.72 --> 5139.06] over -[5139.06 --> 5139.26] my -[5139.26 --> 5139.56] shoulder -[5139.56 --> 5140.14] on -[5140.14 --> 5140.28] the -[5140.28 --> 5140.50] screen -[5140.50 --> 5140.80] behind -[5140.80 --> 5141.48] me -[5141.48 --> 5142.08] come -[5142.08 --> 5142.22] to -[5142.22 --> 5142.36] the -[5142.36 --> 5142.68] table -[5142.68 --> 5143.68] of -[5143.68 --> 5143.80] our -[5143.80 --> 5144.06] Lord -[5144.06 --> 5144.74] lift -[5144.74 --> 5144.92] up -[5144.92 --> 5145.06] your -[5145.06 --> 5145.44] hearts -[5145.44 --> 5148.80] let -[5148.80 --> 5149.00] us -[5149.00 --> 5149.24] give -[5149.24 --> 5149.68] thanks -[5149.68 --> 5149.88] to -[5149.88 --> 5150.02] the -[5150.02 --> 5150.26] Lord -[5150.26 --> 5150.46] our -[5150.46 --> 5150.80] God -[5150.80 --> 5154.70] and -[5154.70 --> 5154.82] it -[5154.82 --> 5154.94] is -[5154.94 --> 5155.12] right -[5155.12 --> 5155.28] for -[5155.28 --> 5155.42] us -[5155.42 --> 5155.56] to -[5155.56 --> 5155.78] pray -[5155.78 --> 5156.10] let's -[5156.10 --> 5156.24] pray -[5156.24 --> 5156.58] together -[5156.58 --> 5159.08] with -[5159.08 --> 5159.54] joy -[5159.54 --> 5159.88] we -[5159.88 --> 5160.36] praise -[5160.36 --> 5160.74] you -[5160.74 --> 5161.36] gracious -[5161.36 --> 5162.02] God -[5162.02 --> 5162.98] for -[5162.98 --> 5163.20] you -[5163.20 --> 5163.42] have -[5163.42 --> 5163.92] created -[5163.92 --> 5164.40] heaven -[5164.40 --> 5164.62] and -[5164.62 --> 5164.92] earth -[5164.92 --> 5165.76] you -[5165.76 --> 5165.92] have -[5165.92 --> 5166.16] made -[5166.16 --> 5166.44] us -[5166.44 --> 5166.68] in -[5166.68 --> 5166.84] your -[5166.84 --> 5167.32] image -[5167.32 --> 5168.08] fearfully -[5168.08 --> 5168.62] and -[5168.62 --> 5169.12] wonderfully -[5169.12 --> 5169.66] and -[5169.66 --> 5169.78] you -[5169.78 --> 5169.92] have -[5169.92 --> 5170.16] kept -[5170.16 --> 5170.66] covenant -[5170.66 --> 5170.98] with -[5170.98 --> 5171.18] us -[5171.18 --> 5171.60] even -[5171.60 --> 5172.24] when -[5172.24 --> 5172.40] we -[5172.40 --> 5172.64] fell -[5172.64 --> 5172.86] into -[5172.86 --> 5173.10] sin -[5173.10 --> 5174.48] we -[5174.48 --> 5174.66] give -[5174.66 --> 5174.80] you -[5174.80 --> 5175.12] thanks -[5175.12 --> 5175.30] for -[5175.30 --> 5175.56] Jesus -[5175.56 --> 5176.02] Christ -[5176.02 --> 5176.28] who -[5176.28 --> 5176.54] by -[5176.54 --> 5176.80] his -[5176.80 --> 5177.14] life -[5177.14 --> 5177.48] death -[5177.48 --> 5177.72] and -[5177.72 --> 5178.18] resurrection -[5178.18 --> 5178.68] opened -[5178.68 --> 5178.92] to -[5178.92 --> 5179.18] us -[5179.18 --> 5179.38] the -[5179.38 --> 5179.72] way -[5179.72 --> 5180.26] of -[5180.26 --> 5180.82] everlasting -[5180.82 --> 5181.38] life -[5181.38 --> 5182.32] in -[5182.32 --> 5182.48] his -[5182.48 --> 5182.70] name -[5182.70 --> 5182.88] we -[5182.88 --> 5183.14] pray -[5183.14 --> 5184.22] amen -[5184.22 --> 5188.74] our -[5188.74 --> 5188.92] Lord -[5188.92 --> 5189.24] Jesus -[5189.24 --> 5190.04] before -[5190.04 --> 5190.30] he -[5190.30 --> 5190.72] suffered -[5190.72 --> 5191.52] gave -[5191.52 --> 5191.92] us -[5191.92 --> 5192.32] this -[5192.32 --> 5192.98] memorial -[5192.98 --> 5193.56] of -[5193.56 --> 5194.18] his -[5194.18 --> 5194.80] sacrifice -[5194.80 --> 5195.20] until -[5195.20 --> 5195.36] he -[5195.36 --> 5195.56] comes -[5195.56 --> 5195.88] again -[5195.88 --> 5197.12] the -[5197.12 --> 5197.28] Lord -[5197.28 --> 5197.62] Jesus -[5197.62 --> 5198.00] on -[5198.00 --> 5198.16] the -[5198.16 --> 5198.40] night -[5198.40 --> 5198.60] that -[5198.60 --> 5198.90] he -[5198.90 --> 5199.38] was -[5199.38 --> 5199.90] betrayed -[5199.90 --> 5200.62] took -[5200.62 --> 5200.96] bread -[5200.96 --> 5201.84] and -[5201.84 --> 5201.98] when -[5201.98 --> 5202.10] he -[5202.10 --> 5202.22] had -[5202.22 --> 5202.46] given -[5202.46 --> 5203.02] thanks -[5203.02 --> 5203.34] he -[5203.34 --> 5203.96] broke -[5203.96 --> 5204.16] it -[5204.16 --> 5204.34] and -[5204.34 --> 5204.58] said -[5204.58 --> 5204.94] this -[5204.94 --> 5205.30] is -[5205.30 --> 5205.56] my -[5205.56 --> 5206.00] body -[5206.00 --> 5206.46] which -[5206.46 --> 5206.64] is -[5206.64 --> 5206.84] for -[5206.84 --> 5207.12] you -[5207.12 --> 5207.92] do -[5207.92 --> 5208.40] this -[5208.40 --> 5208.76] in -[5208.76 --> 5209.38] remembrance -[5209.38 --> 5209.88] of -[5209.88 --> 5210.18] me -[5210.18 --> 5211.48] in -[5211.48 --> 5211.62] the -[5211.62 --> 5211.84] same -[5211.84 --> 5212.24] way -[5212.24 --> 5213.74] after -[5213.74 --> 5214.64] supper -[5214.64 --> 5214.98] he -[5214.98 --> 5215.18] took -[5215.18 --> 5215.34] the -[5215.34 --> 5215.62] cup -[5215.62 --> 5216.52] saying -[5216.52 --> 5216.86] this -[5216.86 --> 5217.24] cup -[5217.24 --> 5217.82] is -[5217.82 --> 5218.02] the -[5218.02 --> 5218.24] new -[5218.24 --> 5218.64] covenant -[5218.64 --> 5219.50] in -[5219.50 --> 5219.70] my -[5219.70 --> 5220.08] blood -[5220.08 --> 5221.30] do -[5221.30 --> 5221.80] this -[5221.80 --> 5222.26] whenever -[5222.26 --> 5222.56] you -[5222.56 --> 5222.86] drink -[5222.86 --> 5223.10] it -[5223.10 --> 5223.66] in -[5223.66 --> 5224.12] remembrance -[5224.12 --> 5225.16] of -[5225.16 --> 5225.44] me -[5225.44 --> 5226.26] for -[5226.26 --> 5226.52] whenever -[5226.52 --> 5226.74] you -[5226.74 --> 5226.96] eat -[5226.96 --> 5227.20] this -[5227.20 --> 5227.54] bread -[5227.54 --> 5227.86] and -[5227.86 --> 5228.22] drink -[5228.22 --> 5228.56] this -[5228.56 --> 5228.96] cup -[5228.96 --> 5229.22] we -[5229.22 --> 5229.74] proclaim -[5229.74 --> 5229.98] the -[5229.98 --> 5230.34] Lord's -[5230.34 --> 5230.64] death -[5230.64 --> 5231.52] until -[5231.52 --> 5232.04] he -[5232.04 --> 5232.36] comes -[5232.36 --> 5232.72] again -[5232.72 --> 5234.24] this -[5234.24 --> 5235.14] is -[5235.14 --> 5235.44] the -[5235.44 --> 5236.02] mystery -[5236.02 --> 5236.66] of -[5236.66 --> 5237.00] our -[5237.00 --> 5237.46] faith -[5237.46 --> 5239.28] your -[5239.28 --> 5239.64] death -[5239.64 --> 5239.90] of -[5239.90 --> 5240.34] Christ -[5240.34 --> 5240.74] we -[5240.74 --> 5241.18] proclaim -[5241.18 --> 5242.34] your -[5242.34 --> 5242.90] resurrection -[5242.90 --> 5243.38] we -[5243.38 --> 5243.78] affirm -[5243.78 --> 5244.08] with -[5244.08 --> 5244.46] joy -[5244.46 --> 5245.40] your -[5245.40 --> 5245.84] coming -[5245.84 --> 5246.14] we -[5246.14 --> 5246.54] await -[5246.54 --> 5246.82] with -[5246.82 --> 5247.18] hope -[5247.18 --> 5248.36] glory -[5248.36 --> 5248.92] be to -[5248.92 --> 5249.16] you -[5249.16 --> 5249.48] Lord -[5249.48 --> 5249.88] Jesus -[5249.88 --> 5252.04] church -[5252.04 --> 5252.38] family -[5252.38 --> 5253.38] the -[5253.38 --> 5253.64] Lord -[5253.64 --> 5253.92] has -[5253.92 --> 5254.32] prepared -[5254.32 --> 5254.88] his -[5254.88 --> 5255.58] table -[5255.58 --> 5255.86] for -[5255.86 --> 5256.18] all -[5256.18 --> 5256.38] who -[5256.38 --> 5256.66] love -[5256.66 --> 5257.00] him -[5257.00 --> 5257.44] and -[5257.44 --> 5257.58] for -[5257.58 --> 5257.78] all -[5257.78 --> 5257.94] who -[5257.94 --> 5258.30] trust -[5258.30 --> 5258.48] in -[5258.48 --> 5258.72] him -[5258.72 --> 5259.16] alone -[5259.16 --> 5259.40] for -[5259.40 --> 5259.62] their -[5259.62 --> 5260.08] salvation -[5260.08 --> 5260.66] and -[5260.66 --> 5260.94] so -[5260.94 --> 5261.38] come -[5261.38 --> 5261.76] to -[5261.76 --> 5262.48] this -[5262.48 --> 5263.00] table -[5263.00 --> 5263.34] you -[5263.34 --> 5263.56] who -[5263.56 --> 5263.80] have -[5263.80 --> 5264.06] much -[5264.06 --> 5264.36] faith -[5264.36 --> 5264.58] and -[5264.58 --> 5264.76] you -[5264.76 --> 5264.90] who -[5264.90 --> 5265.16] would -[5265.16 --> 5265.90] like -[5265.90 --> 5266.40] more -[5266.40 --> 5267.42] come -[5267.42 --> 5267.62] to -[5267.62 --> 5267.84] this -[5267.84 --> 5268.14] table -[5268.14 --> 5268.42] you -[5268.42 --> 5268.64] who -[5268.64 --> 5268.86] have -[5268.86 --> 5269.10] been -[5269.10 --> 5269.28] to -[5269.28 --> 5269.52] this -[5269.52 --> 5270.10] sacrament -[5270.10 --> 5270.80] often -[5270.80 --> 5271.08] and -[5271.08 --> 5271.30] you -[5271.30 --> 5271.48] who -[5271.48 --> 5271.64] have -[5271.64 --> 5271.88] not -[5271.88 --> 5272.14] been -[5272.14 --> 5272.46] for -[5272.46 --> 5272.86] a -[5272.86 --> 5273.06] long -[5273.06 --> 5273.38] time -[5273.38 --> 5273.86] here -[5273.86 --> 5274.44] in -[5274.44 --> 5274.74] this -[5274.74 --> 5275.10] moment -[5275.10 --> 5275.32] the -[5275.32 --> 5275.84] invitation -[5275.84 --> 5276.18] of -[5276.18 --> 5276.48] Jesus -[5276.48 --> 5276.90] come -[5276.90 --> 5277.10] to -[5277.10 --> 5277.32] this -[5277.32 --> 5277.70] table -[5277.70 --> 5278.20] you -[5278.20 --> 5278.44] who -[5278.44 --> 5278.58] have -[5278.58 --> 5278.92] tried -[5278.92 --> 5279.14] to -[5279.14 --> 5279.42] follow -[5279.42 --> 5279.82] Jesus -[5279.82 --> 5280.50] and -[5280.50 --> 5280.68] you -[5280.68 --> 5280.82] who -[5280.82 --> 5281.00] have -[5281.00 --> 5281.30] failed -[5281.30 --> 5282.62] come -[5282.62 --> 5282.82] to -[5282.82 --> 5283.04] this -[5283.04 --> 5283.40] table -[5283.40 --> 5284.58] because -[5284.58 --> 5285.16] Jesus -[5285.16 --> 5286.00] is -[5286.00 --> 5286.92] raised -[5286.92 --> 5288.28] come -[5288.28 --> 5288.94] if -[5288.94 --> 5289.06] you -[5289.06 --> 5289.18] are -[5289.18 --> 5289.48] here -[5289.48 --> 5289.72] in -[5289.72 --> 5290.14] person -[5290.14 --> 5290.62] or -[5290.62 --> 5290.72] if -[5290.72 --> 5290.82] you're -[5290.82 --> 5291.06] joining -[5291.06 --> 5291.28] us -[5291.28 --> 5291.74] online -[5291.74 --> 5292.44] come -[5292.44 --> 5292.80] because -[5292.80 --> 5292.96] it -[5292.96 --> 5293.10] is -[5293.10 --> 5293.62] Christ -[5293.62 --> 5294.30] who -[5294.30 --> 5294.84] invites -[5294.84 --> 5295.28] us -[5295.28 --> 5295.90] to -[5295.90 --> 5296.38] his -[5296.38 --> 5297.18] feast -[5297.18 --> 5298.40] the -[5298.40 --> 5298.64] gifts -[5298.64 --> 5298.80] of -[5298.80 --> 5299.18] God -[5299.18 --> 5300.02] for -[5300.02 --> 5300.14] the -[5300.14 --> 5300.48] people -[5300.48 --> 5301.04] of -[5301.04 --> 5301.38] God -[5301.38 --> 5303.52] if -[5303.52 --> 5303.66] you -[5303.66 --> 5303.80] are -[5303.80 --> 5303.96] a -[5303.96 --> 5304.16] guest -[5304.16 --> 5304.36] with -[5304.36 --> 5304.64] us -[5304.64 --> 5305.76] we -[5305.76 --> 5306.76] celebrate -[5306.76 --> 5307.04] the -[5307.04 --> 5307.40] Lord's -[5307.40 --> 5307.66] Supper -[5307.66 --> 5308.24] by -[5308.24 --> 5308.56] coming -[5308.56 --> 5308.98] forward -[5308.98 --> 5309.26] in -[5309.26 --> 5309.70] groups -[5309.70 --> 5310.38] gathering -[5310.38 --> 5310.74] in -[5310.74 --> 5310.90] a -[5310.90 --> 5311.28] circle -[5311.28 --> 5312.12] passing -[5312.12 --> 5312.66] the -[5312.66 --> 5313.14] elements -[5313.14 --> 5313.54] to -[5313.54 --> 5313.70] the -[5313.70 --> 5314.04] person -[5314.04 --> 5314.76] beside -[5314.76 --> 5314.98] you -[5314.98 --> 5315.38] so -[5315.38 --> 5315.50] we -[5315.50 --> 5315.60] will -[5315.60 --> 5315.70] have -[5315.70 --> 5316.18] serving -[5316.18 --> 5316.50] elders -[5316.50 --> 5316.76] who -[5316.76 --> 5316.90] will -[5316.90 --> 5317.42] indicate -[5317.42 --> 5317.92] your -[5317.92 --> 5318.48] time -[5318.48 --> 5318.68] to -[5318.68 --> 5318.90] come -[5318.90 --> 5319.04] up -[5319.04 --> 5319.16] to -[5319.16 --> 5319.30] the -[5319.30 --> 5319.58] front -[5319.58 --> 5320.52] when -[5320.52 --> 5320.64] you -[5320.64 --> 5320.82] come -[5320.82 --> 5320.94] up -[5320.94 --> 5321.06] to -[5321.06 --> 5321.18] the -[5321.18 --> 5321.46] front -[5321.46 --> 5322.62] we -[5322.62 --> 5322.80] have -[5322.80 --> 5323.16] bread -[5323.16 --> 5323.44] and -[5323.44 --> 5323.58] we -[5323.58 --> 5323.72] have -[5323.72 --> 5324.06] juice -[5324.06 --> 5324.38] there's -[5324.38 --> 5324.62] also -[5324.62 --> 5324.96] gluten -[5324.96 --> 5325.28] free -[5325.28 --> 5325.58] bread -[5325.58 --> 5326.00] available -[5326.00 --> 5326.28] for -[5326.28 --> 5326.54] those -[5326.54 --> 5326.74] who -[5326.74 --> 5326.90] need -[5326.90 --> 5327.08] it -[5327.08 --> 5327.78] if -[5327.78 --> 5327.90] you -[5327.90 --> 5328.04] are -[5328.04 --> 5328.56] unable -[5328.56 --> 5328.82] to -[5328.82 --> 5329.02] come -[5329.02 --> 5329.18] up -[5329.18 --> 5329.32] to -[5329.32 --> 5329.46] the -[5329.46 --> 5329.68] front -[5329.68 --> 5329.86] but -[5329.86 --> 5330.02] would -[5330.02 --> 5330.30] like -[5330.30 --> 5330.50] to -[5330.50 --> 5331.06] receive -[5331.06 --> 5331.30] the -[5331.30 --> 5331.64] Lord's -[5331.64 --> 5331.88] Supper -[5331.88 --> 5332.28] please -[5332.28 --> 5332.70] indicate -[5332.70 --> 5333.08] that -[5333.08 --> 5333.26] to -[5333.26 --> 5333.50] the -[5333.50 --> 5334.02] elders -[5334.02 --> 5334.24] who -[5334.24 --> 5334.38] are -[5334.38 --> 5334.88] ushering -[5334.88 --> 5335.06] and -[5335.06 --> 5335.22] they -[5335.22 --> 5335.44] will -[5335.44 --> 5335.82] come -[5335.82 --> 5336.12] and -[5336.12 --> 5336.44] bring -[5336.44 --> 5336.70] the -[5336.70 --> 5337.12] elements -[5337.12 --> 5337.52] to -[5337.52 --> 5337.88] you -[5337.88 --> 5338.42] where -[5338.42 --> 5338.60] you -[5338.60 --> 5338.76] are -[5338.76 --> 5339.02] seated -[5339.02 --> 5340.44] when -[5340.44 --> 5340.56] you -[5340.56 --> 5340.74] come -[5340.74 --> 5340.88] to -[5340.88 --> 5341.02] the -[5341.02 --> 5341.28] front -[5341.28 --> 5341.58] and -[5341.58 --> 5342.34] the -[5342.34 --> 5342.78] bread -[5342.78 --> 5343.04] is -[5343.04 --> 5343.40] passed -[5343.40 --> 5343.68] to -[5343.68 --> 5343.96] you -[5343.96 --> 5344.22] we -[5344.22 --> 5344.62] invite -[5344.62 --> 5344.84] you -[5344.84 --> 5345.06] to -[5345.06 --> 5345.46] say -[5345.46 --> 5345.74] to -[5345.74 --> 5345.88] the -[5345.88 --> 5346.20] person -[5346.20 --> 5346.50] next -[5346.50 --> 5346.70] to -[5346.70 --> 5347.00] you -[5347.00 --> 5347.44] the -[5347.44 --> 5347.76] body -[5347.76 --> 5347.96] of -[5347.96 --> 5348.32] Christ -[5348.32 --> 5348.66] given -[5348.66 --> 5348.90] for -[5348.90 --> 5349.20] you -[5349.20 --> 5349.60] as -[5349.60 --> 5349.74] you -[5349.74 --> 5350.02] pass -[5350.02 --> 5350.20] it -[5350.20 --> 5350.88] similarly -[5350.88 --> 5351.42] when -[5351.42 --> 5351.52] you -[5351.52 --> 5351.92] receive -[5351.92 --> 5352.32] the -[5352.32 --> 5352.68] juice -[5352.68 --> 5352.86] we -[5352.86 --> 5353.14] invite -[5353.14 --> 5353.28] you -[5353.28 --> 5353.44] to -[5353.44 --> 5358.30] our -[5358.30 --> 5358.58] first -[5358.58 --> 5358.90] table -[5358.90 --> 5359.14] is -[5359.14 --> 5359.28] going -[5359.28 --> 5359.36] to -[5359.36 --> 5359.50] be -[5359.50 --> 5359.82] those -[5359.82 --> 5360.02] who -[5360.02 --> 5360.30] are -[5360.30 --> 5361.00] helping -[5361.00 --> 5361.42] serve -[5361.42 --> 5361.66] whether -[5361.66 --> 5361.90] that's -[5361.90 --> 5362.02] the -[5362.02 --> 5362.30] elders -[5362.30 --> 5362.54] or -[5362.54 --> 5362.68] the -[5362.68 --> 5362.92] worship -[5362.92 --> 5363.46] volunteers -[5363.46 --> 5363.72] or -[5363.72 --> 5363.96] meeting -[5363.96 --> 5364.36] people -[5364.36 --> 5364.54] at -[5364.54 --> 5364.64] the -[5364.64 --> 5364.92] back -[5364.92 --> 5365.86] also -[5365.86 --> 5366.22] we -[5366.22 --> 5366.48] have -[5366.48 --> 5367.22] people -[5367.22 --> 5367.50] who -[5367.50 --> 5367.64] are -[5367.64 --> 5367.96] available -[5367.96 --> 5368.22] to -[5368.22 --> 5368.50] pray -[5368.50 --> 5369.18] and -[5369.18 --> 5369.30] so -[5369.30 --> 5369.44] they -[5369.44 --> 5369.58] will -[5369.58 --> 5369.72] be -[5369.72 --> 5369.88] in -[5369.88 --> 5370.04] the -[5370.04 --> 5370.36] foyer -[5370.36 --> 5370.66] at -[5370.66 --> 5370.78] the -[5370.78 --> 5371.04] back -[5371.04 --> 5371.22] if -[5371.22 --> 5371.34] you -[5371.34 --> 5371.46] would -[5371.46 --> 5371.64] like -[5371.64 --> 5371.78] to -[5371.78 --> 5372.02] receive -[5372.02 --> 5372.46] prayer -[5372.46 --> 5372.96] before -[5372.96 --> 5373.22] or -[5373.22 --> 5373.58] after -[5373.58 --> 5374.12] or -[5374.12 --> 5374.36] in -[5374.36 --> 5374.56] lieu -[5374.56 --> 5374.82] of -[5374.82 --> 5375.10] coming -[5375.10 --> 5375.28] to -[5375.28 --> 5375.42] the -[5375.42 --> 5375.68] table -[5375.68 --> 5375.92] you -[5375.92 --> 5376.08] may -[5376.08 --> 5376.24] do -[5376.24 --> 5376.50] that -[5376.50 --> 5377.00] with -[5377.00 --> 5377.16] them -[5377.16 --> 5377.40] back -[5377.40 --> 5377.64] there -[5377.64 --> 5377.92] so -[5377.92 --> 5378.06] I'm -[5378.06 --> 5378.14] going -[5378.14 --> 5378.20] to -[5378.20 --> 5378.48] invite -[5378.48 --> 5378.78] those -[5378.78 --> 5378.94] who -[5378.94 --> 5379.12] are -[5379.12 --> 5379.90] volunteering -[5379.90 --> 5380.18] who -[5380.18 --> 5380.30] are -[5380.30 --> 5380.56] part -[5380.56 --> 5380.68] of -[5380.68 --> 5380.82] our -[5380.82 --> 5381.12] service -[5381.12 --> 5381.32] to -[5381.32 --> 5381.48] come -[5381.48 --> 5381.84] forward -[5381.84 --> 5382.10] we -[5382.10 --> 5382.22] will -[5382.22 --> 5382.38] do -[5382.38 --> 5382.60] the -[5382.60 --> 5383.14] first -[5383.14 --> 5383.44] round -[5383.44 --> 5383.66] and -[5383.66 --> 5383.84] then -[5383.84 --> 5384.02] they -[5384.02 --> 5384.16] will -[5384.16 --> 5384.34] lead -[5384.34 --> 5384.50] us -[5384.50 --> 5384.66] in -[5384.66 --> 5385.06] song -[5385.06 --> 5385.62] through -[5385.62 --> 5385.92] the -[5385.92 --> 5386.34] remaining -[5386.34 --> 5387.74] invitations -[5387.74 --> 5388.08] to the -[5388.08 --> 5388.30] table -[5407.92 --> 5419.84] and -[5419.84 --> 5420.68] to -[5420.68 --> 5420.98] a -[5420.98 --> 5421.82] Mr. -[5421.82 --> 5422.40] T tea -[5422.40 --> 5424.40] Amen. -[5452.40 --> 5454.40] Amen. -[5482.40 --> 5484.40] Amen. -[5512.40 --> 5514.40] Amen. -[5542.40 --> 5544.40] Amen. -[5572.40 --> 5574.40] Amen. -[5602.40 --> 5604.40] Amen. -[5632.40 --> 5643.22] What grace to be found in Him, Heaven's glorious King. -[5645.58 --> 5658.66] Father, what grace, raising us to life, choosing us in Christ. -[5658.66 --> 5665.66] Father, what grace. -[5665.66 --> 5683.66] Deep is the joy that fills your courts above, while angels wander at your redeeming love. -[5683.66 --> 5698.66] And as you gaze with joy upon your side, your eyes are on the ones His love has won. -[5698.66 --> 5700.66] Amen. -[5700.66 --> 5710.66] What grace to be found in Him, Heaven's glorious King. -[5710.66 --> 5724.66] Father, what grace, raising us to life, choosing us in Christ. -[5724.66 --> 5731.66] Father, what grace. -[5731.66 --> 5733.66] Amen. -[5733.66 --> 5734.66] Amen. -[5734.66 --> 5735.66] Amen. -[5735.66 --> 5736.66] Amen. -[5736.66 --> 5737.66] Amen. -[5737.66 --> 5738.66] Amen. -[5738.66 --> 5741.66] Amen. -[5741.66 --> 5745.66] Amen. -[5745.66 --> 5746.66] Amen. -[5746.66 --> 5747.76] Amen. -[5748.66 --> 5751.54] Amen. -[5751.54 --> 5755.66] Amen. -[5755.66 --> 5756.66] Ass earned. -[5756.66 --> 5765.34] Our hearts forever where our treasure is -[5765.34 --> 5772.56] What grace to be found in Him -[5772.56 --> 5777.24] Heaven's glorious King -[5777.24 --> 5786.10] Father, what grace raising us to life -[5786.10 --> 5791.16] Choosing us in Christ -[5791.16 --> 5799.38] Father, what grace to be found in Him -[5799.38 --> 5803.88] Heaven's glorious King -[5803.88 --> 5812.84] Father, what grace raising us to life -[5812.84 --> 5816.90] Choosing us in Christ -[5816.90 --> 5822.90] Father, what grace -[5822.90 --> 5827.96] What grace -[5827.96 --> 5829.96] What grace -[5829.96 --> 5848.94] What grace -[5848.94 --> 5873.72] What, what my hands have done -[5873.72 --> 5879.36] Can't save my guilty soul -[5879.36 --> 5885.72] Not what my toiling flesh and poor -[5885.72 --> 5891.10] Can make my spirit whole -[5891.10 --> 5897.08] Not what I feel or do -[5897.08 --> 5903.70] Can give me peace with God -[5903.70 --> 5910.58] Not all my prayers and sighs and tears -[5910.58 --> 5916.46] Can bear my awful Lord -[5916.46 --> 5922.70] Your voice alone, O Lord -[5923.26 --> 5929.08] Can speak to me of grace -[5929.08 --> 5935.74] Your power alone, O Son of God -[5935.74 --> 5941.08] Can all my sin erase -[5941.08 --> 5947.58] No other work but yours -[5947.58 --> 5953.52] No other blood will do -[5953.52 --> 5959.96] No strength but that which is divine -[5959.96 --> 5965.08] Can bear me safely through -[5965.08 --> 5973.16] I praise the Christ of God -[5973.16 --> 5977.84] I rest on the divine -[5977.84 --> 5985.24] And with unfolding lip and heart -[5985.24 --> 5991.90] I call this Savior God -[5991.90 --> 5997.24] My Lord has saved my life -[5997.24 --> 6002.24] And freely pardoned gifts -[6002.24 --> 6009.32] I love because He first loved me -[6009.32 --> 6016.44] I live because He lives -[6016.44 --> 6025.10] And with tomb and weeks -[6025.10 --> 6026.54] I pray and love with Jesus -[6026.54 --> 6026.94] The grace of God -[6026.94 --> 6026.98] And with eternal eternal salvation -[6026.98 --> 6027.76] Until He says love -[6028.44 --> 6028.72] It will not let him -[6028.72 --> 6029.90] Yes, that is what he has -[6029.90 --> 6030.70] In the final틀 -[6030.70 --> 6035.08] And否 -[6035.08 --> 6061.88] My Lord, what love is this -[6061.88 --> 6069.18] That pays so dearly -[6069.18 --> 6077.10] That I, the guilty one -[6077.10 --> 6083.62] May your faith -[6083.62 --> 6089.50] Amazing love, oh what sacrifice -[6089.50 --> 6096.50] The Son of God, here for me -[6097.12 --> 6100.78] My death He pays -[6100.78 --> 6104.50] And my death He dies -[6104.50 --> 6110.50] That I might live -[6110.50 --> 6117.50] That I might live -[6117.50 --> 6129.58] And so they watched Him die -[6129.58 --> 6135.16] Despised, rejected -[6135.16 --> 6144.32] But oh, the blood He shed -[6144.32 --> 6149.32] For me -[6149.32 --> 6157.32] Amazing love, oh what sacrifice -[6157.32 --> 6164.32] The Son of God, give for me -[6164.32 --> 6167.32] My death He pays -[6167.32 --> 6171.32] And my death He dies -[6171.32 --> 6177.32] That I might live -[6177.32 --> 6183.32] That I might live -[6183.32 --> 6190.32] And now -[6190.32 --> 6196.32] This love of Christ -[6196.94 --> 6198.32] Shall flow -[6198.32 --> 6203.32] Like rivers -[6203.32 --> 6210.32] Come wash your guilt away -[6210.32 --> 6213.32] Live -[6213.32 --> 6214.32] Live -[6214.32 --> 6217.32] Amen -[6217.32 --> 6223.32] Amazing love, oh what sacrifice -[6223.32 --> 6230.32] The Son of God, give for me -[6230.32 --> 6234.32] My death He pays -[6234.32 --> 6238.32] And my death He dies -[6238.32 --> 6244.32] That I, I live -[6244.32 --> 6249.32] That I, I live -[6249.32 --> 6252.32] That I, I live -[6252.32 --> 6262.32] That I, I live -[6262.32 --> 6265.32] That I, I live -[6265.32 --> 6269.32] That I, I live -[6269.32 --> 6270.32] That I love -[6270.32 --> 6294.60] Before the throne of God above -[6294.60 --> 6300.18] I have a strong and perfect plea -[6300.18 --> 6305.50] A great high priest whose name is love -[6305.50 --> 6310.96] Whoever lives and pleads for me -[6310.96 --> 6316.48] My name is written on his hands -[6316.48 --> 6321.92] My name is written on his heart -[6321.92 --> 6327.06] I know that while in heaven he stands -[6327.06 --> 6331.92] No tongue can bid me thence depart -[6331.92 --> 6336.92] No tongue can bid me thence depart -[6336.92 --> 6349.92] When Satan tempts me to despair -[6349.92 --> 6356.06] And tells me of the guilt within -[6356.06 --> 6361.24] Upward I look and see him there -[6361.24 --> 6366.62] Who made an end of all my sin -[6366.62 --> 6371.24] Because the sinless Savior died -[6371.84 --> 6376.24] My sinful soul is counted free -[6376.80 --> 6381.24] For God the just is satisfied -[6381.24 --> 6387.24] To look on him and pardon me -[6387.24 --> 6392.24] To look on him and pardon me -[6392.24 --> 6405.24] Behold him there the risen Lamb -[6405.24 --> 6410.24] My perfect spotless righteousness -[6410.24 --> 6416.24] The great unchangeable I am -[6416.24 --> 6422.24] The King of glory and of grace -[6422.24 --> 6426.24] One in himself I cannot die -[6426.24 --> 6432.24] My soul is purchased by his blood -[6432.24 --> 6437.24] My life is hid with Christ on high -[6437.24 --> 6442.24] With Christ my Savior and my God -[6442.24 --> 6447.24] With Christ my Savior and my God -[6447.24 --> 6454.24] With Christ my Savior and my God -[6454.24 --> 6464.24] My life is hid with Christ on high -[6464.24 --> 6469.24] With Christ my Savior and my God -[6469.24 --> 6476.24] With Christ my Savior and my God -[6476.24 --> 6486.24] You willOLD outer to the land -[6486.24 --> 6490.24] All over my grace where He stands -[6491.24 --> 6492.24] and may now, with His sign -[6496.24 --> 6496.54] He will upon your grace -[6496.54 --> 6522.62] O to see the dawn of the darkest day -[6522.62 --> 6530.62] Christ on a road to Calvary -[6530.62 --> 6536.52] Tried by sinful land -[6536.52 --> 6540.94] Torn and beaten land -[6540.94 --> 6548.36] Nailed to a cross of wood -[6548.36 --> 6557.62] This the path of the cross -[6557.62 --> 6560.36] Christ became -[6560.36 --> 6565.36] Sin for us -[6566.08 --> 6569.36] Took the blame -[6569.36 --> 6575.68] For the wrath we stand forgiven -[6575.68 --> 6579.36] At the cross -[6579.36 --> 6592.06] Won't you see the pain -[6592.06 --> 6596.58] Written on your face -[6596.58 --> 6604.62] Bearing the awesome weight of sin -[6604.62 --> 6609.62] Every bitter thought -[6609.62 --> 6613.88] Every evil deed -[6613.88 --> 6617.52] Counting your blood -[6617.52 --> 6620.62] Stay proud -[6620.62 --> 6624.62] This the hope -[6624.62 --> 6628.62] Of the cross -[6628.62 --> 6631.62] Christ became -[6631.62 --> 6636.62] Sin for us -[6636.62 --> 6640.62] Took the blame -[6640.62 --> 6645.62] For the wrath we stand -[6645.62 --> 6646.62] For the grace -[6646.62 --> 6647.36] For the grace of God -[6647.36 --> 6654.88] And the grace of God -[6654.88 --> 6662.80] Now the daylight flees -[6662.80 --> 6667.12] Now the brown beef -[6667.12 --> 6675.76] Quakes as its maker bows its head -[6675.76 --> 6680.00] Curtain torn in two -[6680.00 --> 6684.24] Dead are raised to the light -[6684.24 --> 6691.44] Finish the victory cry -[6691.44 --> 6699.28] This the heart of the cross -[6699.28 --> 6707.24] Christ became sin for us -[6707.24 --> 6711.20] Took the pain -[6711.20 --> 6721.14] For the wrath we stand forgiven at the cross -[6721.14 --> 6732.36] Oh, to see my name -[6732.36 --> 6736.76] Written in the wounds -[6736.76 --> 6740.80] For through your suffering -[6740.80 --> 6744.76] I am free -[6744.76 --> 6749.48] Death is crushed to death -[6751.14 --> 6753.76] It's right to live -[6753.76 --> 6760.36] Born with your selfless love -[6760.36 --> 6768.78] This the heart of the cross -[6768.78 --> 6771.40] Son of God -[6771.40 --> 6776.44] Sing for us -[6776.44 --> 6780.00] Water of all -[6780.00 --> 6782.00] Water of all -[6782.00 --> 6785.26] Peace that forgiven -[6785.26 --> 6788.00] At the cross -[6788.00 --> 6815.16] If you would like to chat with me or with someone else -[6815.16 --> 6817.94] About how the comfort -[6817.94 --> 6819.92] And the peace of God -[6819.92 --> 6821.86] Seeing all of who you are -[6821.86 --> 6823.46] And being with you in the midst of it -[6823.46 --> 6824.94] How that can be made yours -[6824.94 --> 6826.88] Please grab me after the service -[6826.88 --> 6827.38] Today -[6827.38 --> 6830.26] Or someone else with a name tag on -[6830.26 --> 6832.38] They would love to connect with you -[6832.38 --> 6833.86] Following our worship -[6833.86 --> 6835.38] There's a time of fellowship together -[6835.38 --> 6837.12] I have it on good authority -[6837.12 --> 6838.48] That there is coffee this week -[6838.48 --> 6840.00] So we're grateful for that -[6840.00 --> 6841.36] And for the people who pulled that together -[6841.36 --> 6842.74] And again -[6842.74 --> 6843.76] If you would like prayer -[6843.76 --> 6845.44] After service -[6845.44 --> 6847.92] There should be someone with a yellow name tag on -[6847.92 --> 6848.46] Grab them -[6848.46 --> 6849.66] They would love to pray with you -[6849.66 --> 6851.32] Or turn to anyone around you -[6851.32 --> 6852.70] They would love to pray with you as well -[6852.70 --> 6854.16] As you go -[6854.16 --> 6857.06] Go with the blessing of our God -[6857.06 --> 6860.46] God go before you -[6860.46 --> 6861.34] To lead you -[6861.34 --> 6863.12] God go behind you -[6863.12 --> 6864.02] To protect you -[6864.02 --> 6865.42] God go beneath you -[6865.42 --> 6866.36] To support you -[6866.36 --> 6868.00] God go beside you -[6868.00 --> 6869.02] To befriend you -[6869.02 --> 6871.72] Do not be afraid -[6871.72 --> 6873.32] Let the blessing of God -[6873.32 --> 6874.28] Come upon you today -[6874.28 --> 6875.86] Do not be afraid -[6875.86 --> 6877.94] But go in peace -[6877.94 --> 6880.56] To love and serve the Lord -[6880.56 --> 6882.14] Amen -[6882.14 --> 6905.08] As you go -[6905.08 --> 6906.00] May you know -[6906.00 --> 6907.30] The love of Christ -[6907.30 --> 6909.86] How deep and long -[6909.86 --> 6911.86] How high and wide -[6911.86 --> 6914.04] As you leave -[6914.04 --> 6916.30] May you seek to win the prize -[6916.30 --> 6918.46] And find his death -[6918.46 --> 6921.52] To be your life -[6921.52 --> 6922.96] May you go -[6922.96 --> 6923.78] In the love -[6923.78 --> 6925.98] Of your Father God -[6925.98 --> 6927.36] May you go -[6927.36 --> 6929.56] In the grace of Christ -[6929.56 --> 6931.82] May you go -[6931.82 --> 6934.70] In the power of the Spirit now -[6934.70 --> 6936.34] To bring him glory -[6936.34 --> 6939.04] With your life -[6939.04 --> 6940.62] As you go -[6940.62 --> 6941.24] May you go -[6941.24 --> 6941.50] May you know -[6941.50 --> 6942.00] May you go -[6942.00 --> 6951.36] grace is very strength for what's to come as you leave may you feel its mind in hand -[6952.48 --> 6962.80] guarding your steps in the race you run may you go in the love of your father god may you go -[6962.80 --> 6973.52] in the grace of christ may you go in the power of the spirit now to bring him glory with your life -[6974.96 --> 6982.56] as you go may you show his heart to bless the ones with less the blind and lost -[6983.92 --> 6991.20] as you leave may you be the light of christ and show our hope is in the cross -[6992.80 --> 7000.32] may you go in the love of your father god may you go in the grace of christ -[7001.68 --> 7009.12] may you go in the power of the spirit now to bring him glory with your life -[7010.64 --> 7018.48] may you go in the love of your father god may you go in the grace of christ -[7018.48 --> 7038.00] may you go in the power of the spirit now to bring him glory with your life -[7038.00 --> 7040.08] 있어 -[7040.08 --> 7070.06] Thank you. -[7070.08 --> 7100.06] Thank you. -[7100.08 --> 7130.06] Thank you. -[7130.08 --> 7160.06] Thank you. -[7160.08 --> 7190.06] Thank you. -[7190.08 --> 7220.06] Thank you. -[7220.08 --> 7250.06] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, January 19, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, January 19, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 38a3abeede845558b3b433b97b737b77bc560de0..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, January 19, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,68 +0,0 @@ -• Gathering of people from different nations and cultures -• Unity in Jesus Christ -• Singing praises to God and expressing love for Him -• Confession and prayer of assurance -• Asking God for forgiveness and guidance -• Requesting help to remember God's goodness and presence throughout life -• The importance of focusing on Jesus in our lives -• The tendency to lose sight of God in daily life, even during worship -• The call to turn eyes to Jesus and speak of His love -• The assurance that God's glory and love will be revealed in the end times -• The invitation to come to Christ for salvation, mercy, and satisfaction -• The declaration of God's love for the world and His gift of salvation through Jesus -• Worship service at a church -• Reading from the Bible (God's love and redemption) -• Collection of financial gifts for various ministries, including North American Indigenous Ministries and the Johnson family missionary support -• Children's worship time with interactive activities -• A deacon (Mike) participating in the service and introducing the collection of gifts -• Humorous interactions between the speaker and children -• The speaker shares personal details and experiences, including having kittens at home. -• Discussion about learning about Jesus and sharing that knowledge with others. -• Places where people learn about Jesus mentioned include school, church, Sunday school, parents, and reading the Bible. -• Congregational prayer led by Seth, focusing on gratitude, nearness of God, faithfulness, guidance, provision, holiness, justice, and righteousness. -• Discussion of living with gratitude for the sacrifice of Jesus -• Reading and analysis of 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12 -• Examination of how the Apostle Paul preached the gospel in Thessalonica -• Explaining the conversion, conviction, and courage demonstrated by genuine faith -• Retelling of the story from Acts 17 about Paul's missionary work in Thessalonica -• Paul's opponents in Thessalonica are spreading false rumors about him -• Paul suffered persecution in Philippi for preaching the gospel -• He responds to accusations of cowardice by sharing his message and example as proof of authenticity -• The pattern of conversion to the gospel, conviction of the gospel, and courage with the gospel is emphasized -• Genuine belief leads to authentic transformation, which must work its way out through obedience and submission to God's word -• The importance of Christ and His Word in building conviction for the Word -• The role of the gospel in transforming lives through faith -• The truth of the gospel: Jesus lived a perfect life, died on the cross to take our sin and shame, and rose from the dead to give us new life -• The relationship between transformation, truth, and testimony in living out one's faith -• The need to return to the Word of God for courage and conviction if struggling with timid or uncertain faith. -• The importance of being transformed by the Holy Spirit and the Word of God -• Recognizing the need to let go of crutches, drinks, or drugs that hold us back from transformation -• Understanding that faith is an imagination profoundly convicted by the Word of God -• The role of the Word of God in shaping our imaginations and transforming our lives -• The importance of speaking the truth plainly, humbly, and without flattery -• The need to please God rather than people and to set one's heart on Him -• Conversion, conviction, and courage as a personal reality and in the context of the church -• Authentic faith being demonstrated through conversion, conviction, and courage in the context of the church -• Paul uses the image of a nursing mother to describe mature believers who work hard not to be a burden, but to ease the burden for others in the church. -• Leaders and those with more experience in faith are like spiritual fathers who encourage and comfort younger believers. -• The responsibility of being a spiritual father or mother extends beyond one's own family, to the next generation of believers. -• There is an openness to faith and spirituality in today's world, especially among young people, creating opportunities for proclamation of the gospel. -• Living a life worthy of God involves speaking the truth plainly, with humility, concerned only with what God thinks of you. -• The glory of God is not sought from humans, but is found in Christ, who holds the fullness of deity and transforms those who behold Him. -• Living lives worthy of one's calling and not losing heart -• Renewal inwardly despite outward decay -• Focus on eternal glory rather than temporary troubles -• Fixing eyes on unseen things, which are eternal -• Transformation through faith, truth, and testimony -• Sending out the gospel to the next generation -• The call to stand as children of promise and fix eyes on Jesus for souls' reward -• Walking by faith and not sight, trusting in God's power and provision -• The church's mission to preach good news and deliver captives with the power of the Spirit -• Standing firm against darkness and opposition, armed with faith and truth -• The call to love the captive soul but rage against the captor, using the sword that makes the wounded whole -• Trusting in a secure outcome with Christ as the prize for which He died -• The glory and triumph of God's grace -• A call to rise up in faith and worship -• Encouragement to lift one's eyes and be radiant in Christ -• Repeated calls to the Church to arise and shine in its light -• Expressions of gratitude and appreciation \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, January 19, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, January 19, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2690d75211f151bb038fef418fbb47b94d3c4530..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, January 19, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1015 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 1.34] When he sees you, we're praying. -[1.56 --> 2.20] Peace of Christ. -[2.46 --> 2.92] Good morning. -[3.26 --> 3.74] Good morning. -[19.02 --> 20.66] Brothers and sisters in Christ, -[21.38 --> 24.60] may the light of God's love push back the darkness. -[25.78 --> 28.64] We come to the light from the four corners of the earth, -[28.64 --> 33.32] from the north, the south, the east, and the west. -[34.60 --> 37.50] But we are all one in Jesus Christ. -[38.26 --> 42.00] We come from many nations and many cultures, young and old. -[42.92 --> 45.44] But we are all one in Jesus Christ. -[46.06 --> 49.40] We come with burdens and sins, regrets and mistakes, -[49.88 --> 51.72] new faith and generations of faith, -[52.10 --> 53.68] strong faith and weak faith. -[54.32 --> 56.98] But we are all one in Jesus Christ. -[56.98 --> 62.12] We are united by the love showered upon us by God through our Lord Jesus Christ. -[62.54 --> 65.92] Let us lift up our many voices and praise the God of all. -[65.92 --> 87.18] Can we listen to the sweet that God, -[87.18 --> 91.50] The triumphs of his grace -[91.50 --> 96.56] My gracious master and my goddess -[96.56 --> 98.78] Assist me to proclaim -[98.78 --> 101.72] To step through all the earth -[101.72 --> 106.08] Across the honors of thy name -[106.08 --> 109.98] Oh, come on and sing out -[109.98 --> 113.08] Let our anthem roll out -[113.08 --> 117.16] There is one praise -[117.16 --> 120.42] Jesus -[120.42 --> 135.36] Jesus, the name that shines our fears -[135.36 --> 138.22] That bids our sorrows cease -[138.22 --> 141.64] Tis music in the sinner's ears -[141.64 --> 145.26] Stears like a belt and peace -[145.26 --> 149.58] He breaks the power of counsel sin -[149.58 --> 152.44] He sets the prisoner free -[152.44 --> 155.88] His blood can make the foulest clean -[155.88 --> 158.52] His blood availed for me -[158.52 --> 162.84] Oh, come on and sing out -[162.84 --> 166.10] Let our anthem roll out -[166.10 --> 171.22] There is one great love -[171.22 --> 178.02] There is one great love -[178.02 --> 179.34] Jesus -[179.34 --> 180.28] Jesus -[180.28 --> 194.56] He speaks and listening to his voice -[194.56 --> 197.40] New life and every scene -[197.40 --> 200.82] The mortal broken hearts rejoice -[200.82 --> 202.52] The humble poor -[202.52 --> 204.08] The humble poor believe -[204.08 --> 208.84] Glory to God and praise and love -[208.84 --> 211.52] Be ever, ever again -[211.52 --> 214.88] By sins below and saints above -[214.88 --> 218.14] The church in earth and death -[218.14 --> 222.46] Come on and sing out -[222.46 --> 225.32] At the throne of the earth -[225.32 --> 230.40] There is one great love -[230.40 --> 236.90] There is one great love -[236.90 --> 238.60] Jesus -[238.60 --> 239.16] Jesus -[239.16 --> 239.92] Lord, Fatherис -[239.92 --> 245.74] Levendsang -[245.74 --> 246.42] He ties the listener who 와 -[246.42 --> 246.62] Amen -[246.62 --> 248.28] Thumb starts -[248.28 --> 249.82] Jenna -[249.82 --> 250.48] Dab politics -[250.48 --> 252.30] Everybody -[252.30 --> 252.42] He calls a believer -[252.42 --> 253.12] Pepper -[253.12 --> 253.48] He calls me -[253.48 --> 277.00] And the faith rise up and sing Of the great and glorious king -[277.00 --> 287.00] You are strong when you feel weak In your brokenness complete -[287.00 --> 296.00] Shout to the north and the south Sing to the east and the west -[296.00 --> 305.00] Jesus is Savior to all Lord of heaven and earth -[305.00 --> 314.00] Rise up women of the truth And then sing to broken hearts -[314.00 --> 324.00] Who can know the healing power Of our awesome King of love -[324.00 --> 333.00] Shout to the north and the south Sing to the east and the west -[333.00 --> 342.00] Jesus is Savior to all Lord of heaven and earth -[342.00 --> 351.00] We've been through fire We've been through rain We've been refined by the power of His name -[351.00 --> 360.00] We've fallen deeper in love with you You burn the truth in our lips -[360.00 --> 369.00] We will shout to the north and the south Sing to the east and the west -[369.00 --> 378.00] Jesus is Savior to all Lord of heaven and earth -[378.00 --> 387.00] Let the church with broken wings Build this place with songs again -[387.00 --> 397.00] Of our God who reigns on high By His grace and His name -[397.00 --> 398.00] Shout to the north and the north And the north and earth -[398.00 --> 406.00] Shout to the north and the south Sing to the east and the west -[406.00 --> 407.00] Jesus is Savior to the north and the north And the north and the north -[407.00 --> 413.00] Jesus is Savior to all Lord of heaven and earth -[413.00 --> 415.00] Lord of heaven and earth Lord of heaven and earth -[415.00 --> 422.00] Lord of heaven and earth Lord of heaven and earth Lord of heaven and earth -[422.00 --> 440.00] Lord Lord of heaven and earth Lord of heaven and earth Lord of heaven and earth -[440.00 --> 443.36] Please be seated for a prayer of confession and assurance. -[448.26 --> 450.90] I invite you to join me in a silent prayer. -[470.00 --> 499.98] Thank you. -[500.00 --> 529.98] Thank you. -[530.00 --> 558.00] Thank you. -[558.76 --> 570.10] Heavenly Father, here we are gathered before you, each of us with different things on our hearts that we come and lay before you, Lord. -[570.10 --> 576.80] Lord, we've gathered and we've been singing your praises. -[576.80 --> 581.60] And sometimes sitting in silence can be really uncomfortable. -[581.60 --> 589.58] Sometimes we gather and we sing and we worship you and then we go back to our own spaces of life. -[589.58 --> 594.12] And we lose sight of you, God. -[619.58 --> 622.38] And walk with you wherever we go, Lord. -[622.38 --> 627.98] Lord, help us to remember your goodness. -[627.98 --> 630.18] Help us to turn your eyes to you, Lord. -[630.18 --> 641.38] And help us to look to our neighbors, our brothers and sisters in Christ, and turn their eyes to you and speak of you into their life, Lord. -[641.38 --> 656.22] Lord, when there's differences in the nitty-gritty of the details, Lord, we get lost. -[656.22 --> 658.22] We lose sight of you, Lord, we lose sight of you, Lord. -[658.22 --> 662.16] We lose sight of you so often in everything we do, even in our praises, Lord. -[662.16 --> 674.38] Sometimes we sing these songs and we forget that we're praising the God of the universe, the God who created us, who gave us life. -[676.14 --> 678.34] Lord, help us turn our eyes to you. -[678.48 --> 680.58] Help us turn our eyes to Jesus. -[682.70 --> 689.14] And help us to turn each other's eyes to you, Lord, and speak of your love. -[690.38 --> 691.72] In your name we pray. -[692.22 --> 692.56] Amen. -[693.18 --> 693.68] Amen. -[700.00 --> 702.86] Amen. -[711.22 --> 718.84] Turn your eyes upon Jesus. -[720.10 --> 721.94] Look full in voice. -[721.94 --> 726.00] In His wonderful face. -[727.58 --> 733.90] And the things of earth will grow strangely. -[735.12 --> 741.06] In the light of His glory and grace. -[741.06 --> 755.12] Turn your eyes to the hillside. -[755.12 --> 762.12] Where justice and mercy embrace. -[763.04 --> 770.12] Hither Son of God gave His life for us. -[771.06 --> 776.74] And our measureless debt was a great. -[779.38 --> 786.24] Jesus, to You we lift our eyes. -[786.84 --> 793.24] Jesus, our glory and our prize. -[794.18 --> 798.24] We adore You, behold You. -[798.24 --> 801.58] Our Savior ever true. -[802.20 --> 807.24] Oh Jesus, we turn our eyes to You. -[807.24 --> 820.38] Turn your eyes to the morning. -[820.38 --> 826.38] Then see Christ the Lion away. -[828.38 --> 832.30] What a glorious dawn. -[832.38 --> 836.28] Fear of death is gone. -[836.80 --> 842.04] For we carry His life in our veins. -[842.04 --> 851.04] Jesus, to You we lift our eyes. -[851.04 --> 858.04] Jesus, our glory and our prize. -[858.04 --> 862.80] We adore You, behold You. -[863.04 --> 865.04] Our Savior ever true. -[865.04 --> 871.92] Oh Jesus, we turn our eyes to You. -[871.92 --> 883.92] Turn your eyes to the heavens. -[883.92 --> 890.92] Our King will return for His own. -[890.92 --> 891.92] Every knee will bow. -[891.92 --> 895.92] Every knee will bow. -[895.92 --> 899.92] Every tongue will shout. -[899.92 --> 905.92] All glory to Jesus the Lord. -[905.92 --> 912.92] Jesus, to You we lift our eyes. -[912.92 --> 919.92] Jesus, our glory and our prize. -[919.92 --> 920.92] We adore You, behold You. -[920.92 --> 921.92] We adore You, behold You. -[921.92 --> 922.92] Our Savior ever true. -[922.92 --> 924.92] We adore You, behold You. -[924.92 --> 926.92] Our Savior ever true. -[926.92 --> 928.92] Oh Jesus, we turn our eyes to You. -[928.92 --> 932.92] Oh Jesus, we turn our eyes to You. -[932.92 --> 934.92] Oh Jesus, to You we lift our eyes. -[934.92 --> 939.92] Oh Jesus, to You we lift our eyes. -[939.92 --> 944.92] Oh Jesus, to You we lift our eyes. -[944.92 --> 951.92] Oh Jesus, our glory and our prize. -[951.92 --> 955.92] We adore You, behold You. -[955.92 --> 958.92] Our Savior ever true. -[958.92 --> 968.92] Oh Jesus, we turn our eyes to You. -[968.92 --> 973.92] Oh Jesus, we turn our eyes to You. -[981.92 --> 982.92] Please stand. -[988.92 --> 1000.92] Come all you weary. -[1000.92 --> 1002.92] Come all you thirsty. -[1002.92 --> 1007.92] Come to the well that never runs dry. -[1007.92 --> 1009.92] Drink of the water. -[1009.92 --> 1013.92] Come and thirst no more. -[1013.92 --> 1018.92] Come all you sinners. -[1018.92 --> 1020.92] Come find His mercy. -[1020.92 --> 1022.92] Come to the table. -[1022.92 --> 1024.92] He will satisfy. -[1024.92 --> 1027.92] Taste of His goodness. -[1027.92 --> 1030.92] Find what you're looking for. -[1034.92 --> 1038.92] For God so loved the world that He gave us. -[1038.92 --> 1043.92] His one and only Son to save us. -[1043.92 --> 1048.92] Whoever believes in Him will live forever. -[1052.92 --> 1054.92] Bring all your failures. -[1054.92 --> 1056.92] Bring your addictions. -[1056.92 --> 1061.92] Come lay them down at the foot of the cross. -[1061.92 --> 1062.92] Jesus is waiting there. -[1062.92 --> 1068.92] Jesus is waiting there with open arms. -[1068.92 --> 1074.92] For God so loved the world that He gave us. -[1074.92 --> 1079.92] His one and only Son to save us. -[1079.92 --> 1084.92] Whoever believes in Him will live forever. -[1084.92 --> 1091.92] The power of hell forever defeated. -[1091.92 --> 1094.92] Now it is well. -[1094.92 --> 1096.92] I'm walking in freedom. -[1096.92 --> 1098.92] For God so loved. -[1098.92 --> 1103.92] God so loved the world. -[1103.92 --> 1105.92] their Come on. -[1105.92 --> 1106.92] To the whole ramsey morning. -[1106.92 --> 1107.92] home. -[1107.92 --> 1108.92] Silly ninty again. -[1108.92 --> 1125.20] Shedra -[1125.20 --> 1131.88] Praise God, praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[1133.14 --> 1140.94] Praise Him, praise Him, for the wonders of His love. -[1144.26 --> 1153.26] For God so loved the world that He gave us His one and only Son to save us. -[1153.26 --> 1162.24] For God so loved the world that He gave us His one and only Son to save us. -[1162.24 --> 1167.40] Whoever believes in Him will live forever. -[1170.22 --> 1177.38] The power of hell forever defeated, now it is well. -[1177.38 --> 1186.36] I'm walking in freedom for God so loved, God so loved the world. -[1188.50 --> 1197.88] Bring all your failures, bring your addictions, come lay them down at the foot of the cross. -[1197.88 --> 1205.16] Jesus is waiting, God so loved the world. -[1205.86 --> 1207.32] I invite you to be seated. -[1227.88 --> 1239.66] Good morning, my name is... -[1239.66 --> 1240.38] Wow. -[1241.06 --> 1243.16] Good morning, my name is Mike. -[1243.30 --> 1247.54] I am a deacon here at the church and we are going to take some time in our service to worship -[1247.54 --> 1249.70] God by giving back some of our financial gifts. -[1250.30 --> 1253.90] So, we are giving to the ministry missions of this church, of course. -[1253.90 --> 1258.20] So, if you want to give to that, make sure it's designated, whether it's an e-transfer -[1258.20 --> 1260.70] or in the bags that we'll pass around in a minute. -[1261.20 --> 1263.60] But our special offering today is for NAME. -[1264.32 --> 1268.28] That is the North American Indigenous Ministries that our church supports. -[1268.42 --> 1273.02] And there is the Johnson family, which is a missionary family that works with indigenous peoples -[1273.02 --> 1275.62] that this church is supporting directly. -[1275.88 --> 1278.76] So, thank you very much for giving of your gifts this morning. -[1278.76 --> 1278.82] Thank you. -[1278.82 --> 1278.86] Thank you. -[1283.90 --> 1313.88] Thank you. -[1313.90 --> 1314.90] Thank you. -[1314.90 --> 1315.90] Thank you. -[1315.90 --> 1343.88] Thank you. -[1343.90 --> 1348.18] Yes, sir. -[1348.42 --> 1352.16] Thank you. -[1355.90 --> 1360.54] Thank you. -[1360.54 --> 1361.64] Yes, sir. -[1361.64 --> 1364.98] Yes, sir. -[1365.12 --> 1373.56] No, as you said that. -[1373.56 --> 1383.06] God's love so sure shall still endure, all measureless and strong. -[1383.46 --> 1391.86] Redeeming grace to Adam's race, to saints and angels' song. -[1391.86 --> 1409.92] O love of God, how rich and pure, how measureless and strong, it shall forevermore endure, the saints and angels' song. -[1409.92 --> 1420.64] Could we rethink the ocean fill, and were the skies of parchment made, -[1420.98 --> 1429.62] were every stalk on earth a quill, and every man ascribed by trade, -[1429.62 --> 1438.40] to write the love of God above, would drain the ocean dry, -[1438.40 --> 1447.16] nor could the scroll contain the whole, the stretch from sky to sky. -[1447.56 --> 1455.84] O love of God, how rich and pure, how measureless and strong, -[1456.26 --> 1464.68] it shall forevermore endure, the saints and angels' song. -[1464.68 --> 1473.84] O love of God, how rich and pure, how measureless and strong, -[1473.84 --> 1483.60] it shall forevermore endure, the saints and angels' song. -[1483.60 --> 1494.76] O love of God, how rich and pure, how rich and pure, how rich and pure, how rich and pure. -[1494.76 --> 1498.62] Okay, I'd like to call the kids up front for the children's worship time. -[1498.62 --> 1514.88] I'm going to say good morning to you, but I want you guys to respond in a different way. -[1514.96 --> 1518.02] I want you to say good morning with a long morning. -[1518.40 --> 1519.00] Can you do that? -[1519.78 --> 1520.64] Good morning. -[1521.14 --> 1522.62] Good morning. -[1523.74 --> 1524.36] I love it. -[1524.38 --> 1524.84] I love it. -[1524.86 --> 1525.28] All right. -[1525.94 --> 1526.74] You know what? -[1526.74 --> 1528.98] Have you guys seen me in a while? -[1529.04 --> 1530.22] I haven't been up here in a long time. -[1530.28 --> 1531.38] Does anybody recognize me? -[1531.42 --> 1532.16] Do you know who I am? -[1532.44 --> 1532.68] Yeah? -[1533.04 --> 1534.78] I've been on a little bit of a sabbatical. -[1534.92 --> 1535.82] Do you know what that word is? -[1536.40 --> 1537.78] I'm taking a little bit of a break. -[1538.70 --> 1540.56] But I was asked to help out this morning. -[1540.66 --> 1541.48] So I'm just checking. -[1541.58 --> 1543.14] I haven't been up here in like six months. -[1543.24 --> 1547.34] I'm wondering if you guys, does anybody know, does anybody here know what my name is? -[1547.94 --> 1549.30] Who knows what my name is? -[1550.10 --> 1550.46] Anybody? -[1550.94 --> 1551.30] Uh-oh. -[1552.32 --> 1552.68] Anybody? -[1553.42 --> 1553.92] Come on. -[1553.94 --> 1554.98] You got to help me right now. -[1554.98 --> 1556.18] You got to help me, Smiley. -[1556.18 --> 1557.84] What's, you know what my name is? -[1559.50 --> 1560.48] Go for it. -[1560.88 --> 1561.28] Eric. -[1561.38 --> 1561.74] All right. -[1561.80 --> 1562.08] Okay. -[1562.18 --> 1563.58] We're doing good here. -[1563.64 --> 1563.90] Okay. -[1563.96 --> 1565.56] I got another question for you. -[1568.12 --> 1570.22] Does anybody know if I'm married or not? -[1571.04 --> 1571.52] Okay. -[1571.64 --> 1571.82] Good. -[1571.90 --> 1572.16] Okay. -[1572.26 --> 1573.42] That's good. -[1574.64 --> 1576.20] Here's a really trick question. -[1576.58 --> 1578.66] Anybody got any idea how old I am? -[1581.12 --> 1582.02] Throw it out there. -[1582.14 --> 1582.48] I'm going to... -[1582.48 --> 1583.82] Forty-eight. -[1583.82 --> 1583.88] Forty-eight. -[1583.88 --> 1583.92] Forty-eight. -[1586.18 --> 1586.78] Forty. -[1586.86 --> 1587.28] I like it. -[1587.34 --> 1589.26] Well, I'm actually a little bit older than that, but that's close. -[1589.32 --> 1589.82] We'll take that. -[1589.88 --> 1590.44] That's all good. -[1591.02 --> 1593.50] The gray hair hasn't deceived you guys yet. -[1593.58 --> 1593.84] Okay. -[1594.74 --> 1595.70] Another question for you. -[1595.76 --> 1597.06] Do you want to see me walking around? -[1597.14 --> 1598.52] Am I tall or am I short? -[1602.18 --> 1603.22] I heard that. -[1604.14 --> 1604.46] Medium. -[1604.70 --> 1605.30] Good answer. -[1605.30 --> 1606.30] Good answer. -[1606.30 --> 1607.98] So, you guys know a few things about me. -[1608.04 --> 1611.00] I got something new I want to tell you about me that you don't know. -[1611.64 --> 1614.56] At my house, we had... -[1614.56 --> 1616.30] This shirt's kind of old, but... -[1617.58 --> 1620.90] At my house, we have a cat that lives outside. -[1621.00 --> 1622.96] It's not an inside cat, but it had kittens. -[1622.96 --> 1627.22] And I didn't really think I liked cats or kittens, but you know what? -[1627.72 --> 1629.02] The kittens are kind of cute. -[1629.10 --> 1631.04] Does anybody here have a cat or a pet at home? -[1631.32 --> 1631.60] Yeah? -[1632.56 --> 1633.82] Well, guess what? -[1633.86 --> 1639.48] I got two extra kittens at home, so if anybody wants a kitten, come talk to me after church. -[1639.48 --> 1644.24] Now, back to children's worship time. -[1646.68 --> 1651.38] I just shared a whole bunch of things about you that you know about me, but today, we're -[1651.38 --> 1654.54] going to go into children's worship time, and we're working on a series right now about -[1654.54 --> 1655.94] who Jesus is. -[1656.96 --> 1660.56] And I just shared a bunch of things about you that you know about Jesus, and in the -[1660.56 --> 1663.92] back, we're going to learn a little bit more about how to share the things that we -[1663.92 --> 1665.56] know about Jesus with other people. -[1666.40 --> 1667.26] You think we can do that? -[1667.26 --> 1667.66] Yeah. -[1667.66 --> 1670.50] What are some places where we learn about Jesus? -[1670.62 --> 1671.66] Where have you learned about Jesus? -[1671.80 --> 1672.40] Give me an idea. -[1672.72 --> 1673.56] From school. -[1673.98 --> 1674.84] From church. -[1675.46 --> 1676.30] Sunday school. -[1676.90 --> 1679.68] Your parents, maybe, and reading the Bible, stuff like that. -[1680.86 --> 1681.30] Right? -[1682.30 --> 1682.98] Right on. -[1684.12 --> 1689.00] Okay, we are going to give the blessing, so if everybody can please rise, and we'll share -[1689.00 --> 1691.08] the blessing with everybody before we run out of here. -[1692.52 --> 1692.96] Ready? -[1692.96 --> 1693.02] Ready? -[1694.36 --> 1696.62] The Lord be with you. -[1696.62 --> 1698.54] And also with you. -[1698.54 --> 1699.70] Good morning. -[1699.70 --> 1720.40] My name is Seth, and I promise not to try to sell you any kittens or pets. -[1720.40 --> 1727.54] Instead, it would be my, it is my pleasure to lead you in our congregational prayer. -[1728.00 --> 1729.20] So if you could please bow your heads. -[1729.44 --> 1729.78] Let's pray. -[1732.66 --> 1737.46] Heavenly Father, we come before you today with hearts full of gratitude, knowing you are a -[1737.46 --> 1739.30] God who listens and responds. -[1739.30 --> 1743.50] As the psalmist said, give ear to my words, O Lord. -[1744.02 --> 1745.06] Consider my sighing. -[1745.72 --> 1748.54] Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God. -[1748.90 --> 1750.22] For to you I pray. -[1751.56 --> 1756.48] We thank you for your nearness and faithfulness, and we bring our prayers before you, trusting -[1756.48 --> 1757.32] that you hear us. -[1757.32 --> 1764.16] In the morning we lay our requests before you, waiting expectantly for your guidance and provision. -[1765.36 --> 1770.80] We acknowledge that you are holy and just, and we seek to walk in your light, turning -[1770.80 --> 1771.60] away from sin. -[1772.48 --> 1776.00] Help us, Father, to live lives that reflect your goodness and righteousness. -[1776.00 --> 1782.92] We pray for our church family, for Pastor Chris and all our leaders, that they may serve with -[1782.92 --> 1783.98] wisdom and compassion. -[1785.08 --> 1787.66] Strengthen them as they lead us to follow you more faithfully. -[1788.72 --> 1794.26] We also pray for each member of this congregation, those who are struggling with illness, grief, -[1794.54 --> 1795.34] or anxiety. -[1796.48 --> 1801.64] May your peace, healing, and comfort be with them, and may we as a community support one -[1801.64 --> 1802.44] another in love. -[1802.44 --> 1807.56] And may we also celebrate when there is joy and healing that comes to us. -[1809.18 --> 1814.00] Lord, we lift up our families, our children, youth, and marriages. -[1815.12 --> 1820.08] Protect and guide our young ones, and strengthen the bonds of love between husbands and wives. -[1820.98 --> 1826.48] We pray that our homes may be places of peace, joy, and faith, reflecting your love. -[1828.06 --> 1831.66] We ask for your provision for those in need in our community and beyond. -[1832.44 --> 1837.78] May your church be a light in this community and in this world, offering hope and help -[1837.78 --> 1838.32] to the hurting. -[1839.34 --> 1843.68] We also pray for the global church, especially those suffering for their faith. -[1844.68 --> 1849.30] May they find strength in your presence, and may your message of hope reach every corner -[1849.30 --> 1849.80] of the earth. -[1849.80 --> 1855.14] Finally, Lord, we return to the words of the psalmist. -[1855.14 --> 1858.72] But I, by your great love, can come into your house. -[1859.36 --> 1861.84] In reverence, I bow down toward your holy temple. -[1862.84 --> 1866.34] We are grateful that by your love, we can approach you freely. -[1867.14 --> 1871.94] Help us to honor you with our lives, living with gratitude for the sacrifice of Jesus, -[1872.48 --> 1874.44] who made a way for us to be with you. -[1874.44 --> 1879.26] We offer all of these prayers in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior. -[1879.86 --> 1880.14] Amen. -[1880.14 --> 1880.26] Amen. -[1880.26 --> 1905.94] As you can tell by the picture behind me, we are currently in a series in the books -[1905.94 --> 1907.34] of Thessalonians. -[1907.90 --> 1913.08] We're continuing this week in our deep dive in the beginning of chapter 2. -[1913.80 --> 1919.16] And so in just a moment, I'm going to read from 1 Thessalonians 2, verses 1 through 12. -[1919.78 --> 1922.34] First time through, of course, they're going to be on the screen behind me. -[1922.76 --> 1927.82] But I encourage you, as you are able to have a Bible, either in your hands or on your device, -[1927.82 --> 1936.90] and turn that to the passage and keep that open as we will be referring regularly back to this text together. -[1938.68 --> 1948.26] In this series, we have been challenged by the Apostle Paul to fix our eyes on the future -[1948.26 --> 1958.52] and imminent return of Jesus Christ as an encouragement for how we live our lives of faith in the world today, right now. -[1959.32 --> 1966.56] So we open our eyes to the truth of Christ's future return so that in this present moment, -[1966.88 --> 1969.94] we can be sustained and encouraged. -[1969.94 --> 1979.12] And we're going to continue seeing how Paul leads us and invites us into this perspective on life here and now. -[1979.50 --> 1982.60] And so I encourage you to read along with me. -[1983.40 --> 1986.34] We're going to read starting in chapter 2. -[1990.22 --> 1991.54] Hear the word of the Lord. -[1992.00 --> 1997.68] You know, brothers and sisters, that our visit to you was not without results. -[1997.68 --> 2004.40] We had previously suffered and been treated outrageously in Philippi, as you know, -[2004.86 --> 2011.04] but with the help of our God, we dared to tell you his gospel in the face of strong opposition. -[2012.36 --> 2018.86] For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you. -[2018.86 --> 2024.98] On the contrary, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. -[2024.98 --> 2029.98] We're not trying to please people, but God who tests our hearts. -[2030.94 --> 2036.00] You know, we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed. -[2036.44 --> 2037.84] God is our witness. -[2038.56 --> 2042.88] We were not looking for praise from people, not from you or anyone else, -[2042.96 --> 2047.04] even though as apostles of Christ, we could have asserted our authority. -[2047.68 --> 2052.60] Instead, we were like children, young children among you. -[2052.60 --> 2059.32] Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, so we cared for you. -[2060.58 --> 2066.64] Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God, -[2066.74 --> 2068.40] but our lives as well. -[2069.74 --> 2073.26] Surely you remember, brothers and sisters, our toil and hardship. -[2073.92 --> 2080.30] We worked night and day in order to not be a burden to anyone while we preached the gospel of God to you. -[2080.30 --> 2089.22] You are witnesses, and so is God, of how holy, righteous, and blameless we were among you who believed. -[2090.36 --> 2096.38] For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, -[2097.24 --> 2103.18] encouraging, comforting, and urging you to live lives worthy of God, -[2103.50 --> 2107.36] who calls you into his kingdom and glory. -[2107.36 --> 2109.26] This is the word of the Lord. -[2117.76 --> 2122.10] How do you know your faith is real? -[2124.26 --> 2128.14] How do you know the Christian faith is real? -[2128.14 --> 2132.96] Let's get a little more existential. -[2133.58 --> 2136.72] How do we know any of this is real? -[2139.72 --> 2142.86] As we dig into the word to us this morning, -[2142.86 --> 2152.10] what I hope you will see clearly and plainly is that authentic faith shows up in conversion, -[2153.30 --> 2156.20] in conviction, and courage. -[2156.20 --> 2160.80] Conversion, conviction, and courage. -[2162.60 --> 2163.92] Now let's set the stage again. -[2164.66 --> 2171.18] While Paul and his missionary companions, Silas and Timothy, were in Thessalonica, -[2172.34 --> 2177.90] it was their practice to go to the Jewish synagogue to preach and to teach. -[2177.90 --> 2181.60] And for three weeks, they did this. -[2181.60 --> 2187.48] They would work and they would meet with people, maybe operating out of the house of Jason, -[2188.20 --> 2191.38] and then they would go to the synagogue on the Sabbath and they would teach. -[2192.34 --> 2198.52] And as a result of this work and pattern, some of the Jews and a large number of Greek men and women, -[2198.52 --> 2202.48] even ones of status, we're told, became Christian. -[2202.60 --> 2203.94] They became believers. -[2205.40 --> 2209.94] Acts 17, where this story is told, actually tells us that because of that, -[2210.30 --> 2213.16] some of the other Jewish leaders were jealous. -[2213.84 --> 2218.40] And so what they did is round up some bad characters. -[2218.76 --> 2220.10] That's how Luke describes them. -[2220.10 --> 2222.48] And they started a riot in the city. -[2223.78 --> 2229.94] The mob gathered up early believers, Jason and a few others, but not Paul or Silas and Timothy, -[2230.46 --> 2232.64] and brought them to the city officials. -[2233.50 --> 2238.10] And they were charged with insurrection and treason against Caesar -[2238.10 --> 2243.32] because they called Jesus the only true king. -[2243.32 --> 2251.84] And the crowd and the city officials then are thrown into turmoil and an uproar, -[2252.16 --> 2257.00] and Jason and the others have to pay a fine, and then they're let go. -[2258.42 --> 2266.14] Now, when night fell, we read that Paul and Silas and Timothy are secreted away out to Berea, -[2266.28 --> 2269.86] which is the next town over to the west of Thessalonica. -[2269.86 --> 2278.26] And so, using our imaginations, it's not hard to imagine what the people, -[2278.82 --> 2283.78] the opposition groups left in Thessalonica are now saying about Paul. -[2285.38 --> 2289.94] In fact, when Silas and Timothy join up with Paul later in Corinth, -[2290.44 --> 2294.72] they would tell him that you won't believe what they're saying in Thessalonica. -[2295.50 --> 2298.00] They're saying you ran away because you were scared. -[2298.00 --> 2304.02] They're saying that your work there was pointless because nothing has changed for them. -[2305.34 --> 2310.50] Now, to be clear, right, these are the opponents of Paul who are saying these things, -[2310.58 --> 2314.84] who are trying to sway those early Christians back from their beliefs. -[2315.54 --> 2318.26] But as we've seen, right, they're not swayed. -[2318.58 --> 2320.36] That's why Paul is so encouraged. -[2320.64 --> 2323.82] That's why he's so excited about the church in Thessalonica. -[2323.82 --> 2326.74] What did we read in verse 1? -[2327.54 --> 2332.84] You know, brothers and sisters, that our visit to you was not without results. -[2333.74 --> 2335.74] Our work was not in vain. -[2335.94 --> 2337.38] Lives were changed. -[2338.66 --> 2339.44] He goes on, he says, -[2339.52 --> 2344.16] We suffered and we were treated outrageously in Philippi. -[2344.26 --> 2345.32] You know that too. -[2345.32 --> 2354.12] Quickly, Philippi is the city that Paul and Silas and Timothy were in before going to Thessalonica. -[2354.78 --> 2360.68] And while they were there, they were arrested because they cast out a demon from a girl. -[2360.84 --> 2364.52] And that demon was using the girl to predict the future. -[2364.72 --> 2370.88] And so the merchants who owned this slave girl were really upset and charged Paul and Silas, -[2370.98 --> 2372.12] brought them before the courts. -[2372.12 --> 2376.84] They were stripped and they were beaten with rods and they were severely flogged. -[2376.98 --> 2381.98] And they were thrown into prison and they were locked up in the stockades in prison in Philippi. -[2382.16 --> 2383.86] And do you know what they did when they were in prison? -[2386.26 --> 2387.66] They sang hymns. -[2388.26 --> 2390.72] They sang hymns and they prayed to God. -[2392.80 --> 2396.28] That's what they did in prison after being flogged and beaten. -[2396.28 --> 2398.62] And so here in our text, Paul is saying, -[2398.76 --> 2399.84] You know I'm not a coward. -[2400.62 --> 2402.68] You know that I don't run away from pain. -[2403.20 --> 2405.92] In fact, I sing in the face of pain. -[2407.70 --> 2410.12] The opponents of Paul are saying things like, -[2410.46 --> 2411.20] He tricked you. -[2411.30 --> 2412.64] He's a lying swindler. -[2412.92 --> 2414.62] He's a snake oil salesman. -[2414.70 --> 2415.62] He's a charlatan. -[2415.70 --> 2417.68] He just wanted to cheat you out of your money. -[2420.30 --> 2422.70] You ever heard pastors or churches described that way? -[2422.70 --> 2425.84] Paul says, -[2426.76 --> 2431.24] Remember, remember, we never used flattery. -[2431.52 --> 2432.82] We didn't put a mask on. -[2433.60 --> 2435.38] We didn't lie or speak error. -[2435.74 --> 2436.86] Our motives were pure. -[2437.04 --> 2438.98] Instead, God is our witness. -[2439.48 --> 2440.50] He tests our hearts. -[2440.64 --> 2442.64] He approves the message we speak, -[2442.72 --> 2446.54] the gospel that you have received and believed in and been transformed by. -[2446.54 --> 2447.04] Right? -[2447.86 --> 2451.58] Paul is able to cite the content of his message -[2451.58 --> 2457.18] and the content of his life to prove his authenticity. -[2460.46 --> 2466.00] Paul's concern, then, here, is for the truth. -[2467.94 --> 2468.04] Right? -[2468.14 --> 2470.60] And God's word is truth. -[2470.60 --> 2487.10] Now, there's a pattern here that I want us to identify and to look at for a moment. -[2487.10 --> 2496.38] Conversion by the gospel yields a conviction for the gospel, -[2497.06 --> 2501.38] which together then yield a courage with the gospel. -[2502.90 --> 2503.30] Okay? -[2503.44 --> 2506.40] Follow the adverbs there. -[2506.58 --> 2507.76] Follow those words. -[2507.88 --> 2511.18] Conversion by the gospel brings a conviction for the gospel, -[2511.18 --> 2515.98] which shows up in your life by courage with the gospel. -[2517.10 --> 2518.68] Or, to put it another way, -[2519.18 --> 2523.18] transformation based on truth brings testimony. -[2524.70 --> 2527.22] Transformation, truth, testimony. -[2529.52 --> 2530.46] Here's the principle. -[2530.60 --> 2531.28] Zoom out from that. -[2531.38 --> 2531.44] Right? -[2531.50 --> 2534.30] Because this is the disciples' journey. -[2535.52 --> 2536.02] Right? -[2536.08 --> 2537.46] This is what happened to Paul. -[2537.66 --> 2538.74] This is what happened to Timothy. -[2538.74 --> 2541.80] This is what happened and was happening for the church at Thessalonica. -[2542.22 --> 2544.80] And this is our journey as disciples. -[2545.54 --> 2545.66] Right? -[2545.66 --> 2547.88] 21 centuries later. -[2548.04 --> 2549.16] This is my journey. -[2549.32 --> 2550.32] This is your journey. -[2550.44 --> 2552.90] This is the journey for all of us who believe. -[2553.12 --> 2557.18] Genuine belief brings authentic transformation. -[2557.86 --> 2559.18] It's really real. -[2559.28 --> 2560.10] There's no masks. -[2560.26 --> 2561.24] There's no self-deception. -[2561.66 --> 2563.44] There's no deceiving others. -[2563.88 --> 2568.10] Genuine belief equals authentic transformation. -[2568.10 --> 2575.34] And that authentic transformation has to work its way out of you. -[2575.34 --> 2578.62] It happens inside and it works out. -[2579.88 --> 2580.52] Right? -[2580.56 --> 2585.38] That conversion is worked by genuine conviction for the gospel. -[2585.38 --> 2592.50] Scripture and doctrine growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. -[2592.62 --> 2601.50] Submitting yourself and your life, your opinions, taking all your thoughts captive to Christ and to His Word. -[2602.68 --> 2602.88] Right? -[2602.88 --> 2606.06] With Peter, we say, where else can we go, Lord? -[2606.06 --> 2608.66] You have the words of eternal life. -[2611.24 --> 2617.10] Conversion by the Word builds a conviction for the Word. -[2617.10 --> 2629.10] And when you see what the Word can do in your life and in the lives of other believers, there's a courage, right, that compels you to share it, to declare it, to proclaim it. -[2630.90 --> 2635.10] Mark begins his gospel saying, this is the beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ. -[2635.10 --> 2639.36] This is the gospel of God, the power of God unto salvation. -[2639.80 --> 2641.72] And so, I will not be ashamed. -[2642.94 --> 2644.46] Or with Paul in Romans, right? -[2644.50 --> 2646.64] How can they believe unless they hear? -[2646.90 --> 2649.34] How can they hear unless it is preached to them? -[2649.48 --> 2651.76] And how can they preach unless someone is sent? -[2653.52 --> 2659.16] Transformation is your born-again life by grace through faith. -[2659.32 --> 2663.30] This is the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ. -[2665.10 --> 2678.66] And now, put plainly, put simply, the gospel is the truth that Jesus lived the life I should have lived and died the death that I deserved. -[2680.40 --> 2685.68] Put it another way, the gospel is the truth that Jesus entered into the world. -[2686.48 --> 2692.60] He entered into your world and He took on Himself all my sin and all my shame. -[2692.60 --> 2694.44] He took on Himself all my guilt. -[2694.44 --> 2702.82] He took on Himself all your anxiety, all your worries, all your fears, everything that is bad and broken in your life. -[2702.98 --> 2704.60] He put it on His own shoulders. -[2705.46 --> 2708.06] And He bore that all the way onto the cross. -[2709.04 --> 2710.02] Into death. -[2711.36 --> 2719.62] And then, in taking that from you, He looked at you and He put on your shoulders His righteousness. -[2719.62 --> 2724.20] By grace, you are clothed with Him. -[2724.20 --> 2726.72] His holiness is on your shoulders. -[2726.86 --> 2728.60] You now wear Christ. -[2728.74 --> 2730.78] This is the gospel that transforms. -[2732.30 --> 2735.44] And we know that this mission was successful. -[2735.44 --> 2740.48] That this act was really real because of the resurrection of God. -[2740.48 --> 2742.06] The tomb is empty. -[2742.92 --> 2748.08] And therefore, death and sin and guilt and wrath are defeated and ended. -[2748.22 --> 2749.86] The wrath of God is satisfied. -[2749.86 --> 2754.54] The kingdom of darkness no longer has a claim on those who believe. -[2754.94 --> 2760.86] But you, rather, are God's children, holy and dearly loved. -[2760.86 --> 2768.50] This is your transformation set apart for God's purposes. -[2769.96 --> 2774.38] And it comes by the truth of the gospel. -[2775.62 --> 2782.64] And when that truth works its way out, it's revealed in your life as your testimony. -[2782.64 --> 2788.96] Your life lived courageous with the gospel. -[2790.48 --> 2792.02] Here's the thing, right? -[2793.24 --> 2794.64] One who has ears, let him hear. -[2795.46 --> 2797.40] We've been building here. -[2798.80 --> 2801.38] Transformation, truth, testimony. -[2802.08 --> 2804.48] Transformation, truth, testimony. -[2804.48 --> 2818.02] If you are not living the courage of your faith in that testimony area, you've got to come back one more to the truth. -[2818.94 --> 2825.98] If you are not living that compelling testimony, standing up for the faith, guarding the good deposit that was entrusted for you, -[2825.98 --> 2832.26] right, you've got to come back to the word, to the truth, to the doctrines of your faith, to the words of eternal life, -[2832.28 --> 2838.12] where God speaks to his church, where you hear the voice of Jesus say to you, -[2838.58 --> 2844.04] come to me, all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. -[2845.26 --> 2851.82] If you are timid with your faith, open the word of God and ask him to show you himself. -[2851.82 --> 2857.90] Ask him to show you why these are living words, powerful words. -[2858.34 --> 2863.92] Pray that the Holy Spirit opens the eyes of your heart to see Jesus and to hear him say, -[2864.34 --> 2867.02] go into all the world and declare my name. -[2867.28 --> 2871.58] Ask the Holy Spirit to unstop your ears so that you can hear Jesus say, -[2872.00 --> 2875.90] in this world you will have trouble, but take heart. -[2876.80 --> 2878.30] I have overcome the world. -[2881.82 --> 2897.06] If you are not living the courage of your faith, you need to come back to the conviction of the gospel. -[2901.10 --> 2909.32] Maybe, maybe you're here this morning, and courage in the gospel isn't where you're trying to be yet. -[2909.32 --> 2912.94] Maybe you're one step further away yet. -[2913.20 --> 2916.14] Maybe your struggle is actually trusting in the truth. -[2916.48 --> 2919.08] Maybe you haven't yet been converted to the gospel. -[2919.24 --> 2921.74] Maybe you're holding back Holy Spirit transformation. -[2922.26 --> 2926.80] Maybe you have wondered about the cost of this thing, and you're like, -[2926.88 --> 2928.52] eh, not sure that's for me. -[2928.82 --> 2935.76] Maybe you're not convinced that taking up your cross and following Jesus is what you really want. -[2935.76 --> 2942.12] Or, more likely for most of us here this morning, -[2943.12 --> 2948.02] maybe you're not convinced that you actually want to give up everything. -[2950.58 --> 2955.22] Maybe you're content with the current content of your life. -[2956.28 --> 2956.78] Right? -[2956.82 --> 2957.38] You're pretty okay. -[2958.64 --> 2959.78] You're not so bad. -[2959.78 --> 2964.86] Instead, you don't hurt people, at least on purpose, and definitely not often. -[2966.12 --> 2966.60] Right? -[2966.62 --> 2968.46] You don't need to change everything, right? -[2969.44 --> 2971.50] Besides changing everything, that's way too much work. -[2974.78 --> 2981.00] And, what's more, I actually can't imagine my life without that thing. -[2981.00 --> 2987.70] I can't imagine what life would be like without that crutch, or without that drink, or without that drug. -[2987.98 --> 2988.12] Right? -[2988.14 --> 2993.42] I've done this for so long, I don't know what I would be apart from that thing. -[2994.50 --> 2997.96] Apart from that personality or that plan. -[2999.90 --> 3001.06] Here's the thing, right? -[3001.16 --> 3006.38] Again, if you're tracking with me, and I pray that you are, because I think this is so amazing. -[3006.38 --> 3007.14] Right? -[3007.40 --> 3013.80] If that's where you're at, if you are holding something back from transformation by the Holy Spirit, -[3014.42 --> 3016.82] you also need more of the truth. -[3017.36 --> 3018.34] You need more of the Word. -[3018.66 --> 3024.04] You also need to come to the Word of God, to, yes, this book right here, -[3024.24 --> 3029.74] so that your very imaginations can be shaped by the voice of Jesus. -[3029.74 --> 3035.90] So that what you imagine possible can be transformed by the reality of who God is. -[3037.38 --> 3037.90] Right? -[3037.96 --> 3041.70] If you've ever thought, it's no big deal, or I could never change that. -[3041.86 --> 3046.02] If you've ever thought, I could keep that part to myself, ideally. -[3046.38 --> 3046.56] Right? -[3046.60 --> 3049.08] Or if you've ever thought, I'm always going to be stuck here. -[3049.38 --> 3049.52] Right? -[3049.64 --> 3054.28] What we need is for your imagination to be transformed by the Gospel. -[3054.56 --> 3056.94] You need to believe what's really possible. -[3056.94 --> 3062.24] You need to hear from God's Word that nothing is impossible with God. -[3062.24 --> 3066.80] You need to hear that the Word of God is alive and active. -[3066.92 --> 3069.00] It is sharper than any double-edged sword. -[3069.38 --> 3072.18] It penetrates even dividing soul and spirit. -[3072.52 --> 3074.98] You need to hear that Jesus prayed for you. -[3074.98 --> 3078.76] Jesus Himself in the garden prayed for you, and He said, -[3079.20 --> 3081.08] Sanctify them by your truth. -[3081.48 --> 3083.88] Your Word is truth. -[3085.40 --> 3085.56] Right? -[3085.62 --> 3093.16] Sometimes, faith is just an imagination profoundly convicted by the Word of God. -[3093.16 --> 3109.24] In the transformed life of faith is one that lives in submission to the Word of God -[3109.24 --> 3113.04] and is sustained by the Word of God. -[3113.76 --> 3114.06] Right? -[3114.06 --> 3119.44] The Word of God is both the rule and the means by which we are spurred to keep the rule. -[3119.44 --> 3126.68] And all of this is what Paul wants the church in Thessalonica to remember. -[3127.28 --> 3127.58] Right? -[3127.62 --> 3131.22] In short, he says to them, and you can look at this with me, right? -[3131.48 --> 3132.02] He says, -[3132.12 --> 3133.22] We spoke the truth. -[3133.84 --> 3134.54] That's verse 3. -[3134.90 --> 3135.00] Right? -[3135.00 --> 3141.16] For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you. -[3141.60 --> 3144.68] We spoke the truth, and we spoke it plainly. -[3145.06 --> 3145.68] Verse 5. -[3145.68 --> 3146.58] He says, -[3146.68 --> 3152.12] You know, we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed. -[3152.22 --> 3156.84] We spoke the truth, we spoke it plainly, and we spoke with humility. -[3157.60 --> 3158.06] Verse 6. -[3159.18 --> 3163.52] We were not looking for praise from people. -[3164.50 --> 3168.68] Even though as apostles of Christ, we could have asserted our authority. -[3168.68 --> 3179.12] We spoke the truth, spoke it plainly, spoke it with humility, concerned only to please God. -[3180.16 --> 3185.14] We speak as those approved by God, not trying to please people, but God. -[3185.28 --> 3188.12] God is our witness. -[3188.12 --> 3204.16] And here, here we are, we talked about speaking the gospel courageously. -[3204.84 --> 3204.98] Right? -[3205.06 --> 3209.12] Living and speaking the testimony of our truth. -[3209.90 --> 3211.58] And this is what that looks like. -[3212.42 --> 3212.90] Right? -[3213.00 --> 3213.78] Speak the truth. -[3214.84 --> 3215.82] Speak it plainly. -[3215.82 --> 3217.60] Speak with humility. -[3218.60 --> 3219.52] And then don't worry about them. -[3220.22 --> 3221.86] Don't worry about what they might say. -[3221.94 --> 3224.02] Instead, set your heart on Him. -[3224.80 --> 3226.58] Set your heart on Him who gives you the words. -[3227.76 --> 3231.54] Set your heart on Him who has given you this gospel. -[3231.68 --> 3234.92] Set your heart on Him who has transformed you by it. -[3237.60 --> 3242.22] Finally, one last thing from this text. -[3242.22 --> 3253.24] Paul is here speaking about the transformation that comes from the truth that is lived as a testimony to the gospel. -[3253.50 --> 3253.60] Right? -[3253.72 --> 3255.52] Conversion, conviction, courage. -[3255.92 --> 3260.20] And to be sure, this is a personal reality. -[3260.44 --> 3268.12] This is ultimately about you and your restoration to relationship to God through Jesus Christ. -[3268.12 --> 3272.62] This is about your conversion, your conviction, and your courage. -[3273.34 --> 3282.66] But notice, all of that happens in the broader context of broader relationships. -[3283.40 --> 3284.08] Right? -[3284.18 --> 3288.96] Conversion and conviction and courage in the context of the church. -[3289.60 --> 3292.44] At the body of Christ, the family of God. -[3292.44 --> 3296.28] So here, I've added a line to our big idea. -[3296.70 --> 3296.78] Right? -[3296.90 --> 3304.78] Authentic faith shows up in conversion, conviction, and courage in the context of the church. -[3306.46 --> 3308.82] Paul illustrates this for us with some word pictures. -[3309.72 --> 3312.04] First, he says in verse 7, -[3312.44 --> 3315.80] Instead, we were like young children among you. -[3316.26 --> 3318.74] That is, we lived with you. -[3319.22 --> 3320.88] We didn't try to be out on our own. -[3320.88 --> 3321.20] Right? -[3321.20 --> 3321.80] Right? -[3321.86 --> 3326.18] We were part of the new family that is being built in Thessalonica. -[3327.08 --> 3328.08] And then he goes on. -[3328.14 --> 3328.38] He says, -[3328.72 --> 3330.32] We were like a nursing mother. -[3331.46 --> 3335.16] Now, some of you will get this more clearly than others. -[3336.82 --> 3344.56] But of course, nursing mothers give their whole lives to their infant child. -[3344.56 --> 3353.88] Night and day, while dad is snoring away, mom gives herself for the baby. -[3354.78 --> 3360.78] The child, in that moment, quite literally, is receiving their life from mom. -[3362.68 --> 3367.66] And Paul says that we worked hard not to be a burden, but to ease the burden. -[3368.46 --> 3369.42] That's a mother. -[3369.42 --> 3369.90] Right? -[3369.90 --> 3370.50] Right? -[3370.50 --> 3373.94] Everything a mother does is for her baby. -[3375.54 --> 3380.76] And that's a model for us in our shared lives of faith. -[3381.58 --> 3384.24] This is a beautiful image that Paul is using here. -[3384.60 --> 3390.66] Leaders, those who are mature in faith, are like nursing mothers to the next generation of believers. -[3391.38 --> 3394.22] This is the covenant picture of the church family. -[3394.22 --> 3399.66] You might be 60 years old and all your kids grown and moved out of the house. -[3399.82 --> 3405.92] But your responsibility is to be a nursing mother to the next generation of faith. -[3408.16 --> 3409.64] And then he continues, right? -[3409.70 --> 3416.64] He continues and builds on this image that Paul says that in the context of the church, -[3416.86 --> 3423.18] in the context of the church, our relationship to God is worked out in the midst of our relationship to each other -[3423.18 --> 3425.54] as spiritual fathers. -[3426.20 --> 3426.30] Right? -[3426.38 --> 3432.00] Fathers encourage and comfort and urge you to live lives worthy of God. -[3433.08 --> 3433.38] Right? -[3433.46 --> 3438.84] Urge you to become the men and the women that you were born by grace through faith to be. -[3439.86 --> 3444.70] And so you might be 30 years old, having barely figured out where your life is going -[3444.70 --> 3446.72] and what it's going to look like for the next 10 years, -[3446.86 --> 3452.14] but you are responsible to be a spiritual father to the next generation of those in faith. -[3453.18 --> 3460.34] Look, I really believe that there is something happening in the world right now. -[3461.62 --> 3465.86] Now, I don't want to use the language of revival because by definition, -[3466.12 --> 3470.08] that language can only be applied after the fact when you're looking back on history. -[3470.64 --> 3475.08] But there does seem to be an openness to faith right now. -[3475.08 --> 3482.16] There does seem to be a new curiosity for things spiritual and things historic. -[3483.48 --> 3488.36] Young people especially are asking questions of faith and life. -[3489.40 --> 3492.84] And whether you call it a meaning crisis or a spiritual void, -[3493.14 --> 3497.22] the reality of today's world is that the harvest is plentiful, -[3497.54 --> 3498.76] the fields are ripe, -[3498.76 --> 3502.38] and who is going to go and proclaim the gospel to them. -[3503.98 --> 3505.70] When your faith is real, -[3505.96 --> 3508.72] when you've experienced that transformation by the truth, -[3508.94 --> 3511.60] you long to live as a testimony of Christ. -[3511.96 --> 3513.76] So then go, speak the truth, -[3514.12 --> 3515.12] speak it plainly, -[3515.40 --> 3516.66] speak it with humility, -[3517.88 --> 3518.86] concerned only -[3518.86 --> 3521.06] with what God -[3521.06 --> 3523.06] thinks of you. -[3523.06 --> 3529.18] This is what Paul describes as a life lived, -[3529.42 --> 3530.50] worthy of God, -[3530.70 --> 3535.58] who calls you into His kingdom and His glory. -[3536.26 --> 3537.48] If your Bibles are open, -[3538.40 --> 3539.68] look at that in verse 12. -[3540.44 --> 3540.74] It says, -[3541.06 --> 3542.30] live lives worthy of God, -[3542.36 --> 3544.96] who calls you into His kingdom and His glory. -[3544.96 --> 3546.00] That word glory -[3546.00 --> 3550.30] shows up in our text in verse 6 -[3550.30 --> 3551.92] as well. -[3551.92 --> 3553.10] In verse 6, -[3553.26 --> 3554.26] we already read it, -[3554.50 --> 3555.24] but you missed it, -[3555.50 --> 3558.62] we're not looking for praise from people. -[3559.16 --> 3559.88] That word praise -[3559.88 --> 3561.94] is the same word for glory. -[3562.88 --> 3563.84] Doxen in Greek. -[3565.44 --> 3567.36] Paul wasn't seeking glory -[3567.36 --> 3569.20] from the people of Thessalonica, -[3569.44 --> 3570.96] from the people that he was preaching to, -[3571.04 --> 3573.54] because he already had glory -[3573.54 --> 3575.10] in God His Father. -[3575.20 --> 3577.56] He already had glory visible -[3577.56 --> 3579.10] in the face of Jesus. -[3579.10 --> 3581.78] He had a true and better glory -[3581.78 --> 3582.56] that he knew -[3582.56 --> 3584.24] and that he clinged to. -[3584.56 --> 3585.66] The glory of God -[3585.66 --> 3586.38] is held -[3586.38 --> 3587.32] and beheld -[3587.32 --> 3588.78] in the face of Jesus. -[3588.96 --> 3589.46] In Him, -[3589.56 --> 3591.32] the fullness of the deity dwells. -[3591.64 --> 3592.46] Beholding Him, -[3592.54 --> 3593.26] we are transformed -[3593.26 --> 3594.28] from one degree -[3594.28 --> 3595.16] of glory -[3595.16 --> 3595.98] to another. -[3596.08 --> 3597.04] Or as Paul says -[3597.04 --> 3597.78] elsewhere, -[3597.94 --> 3598.30] he says, -[3598.44 --> 3598.76] therefore, -[3599.06 --> 3600.64] we do not lose heart. -[3601.48 --> 3602.92] Live lives worthy of the calling, -[3603.00 --> 3603.16] right? -[3603.22 --> 3603.80] With courage. -[3604.16 --> 3605.80] We do not lose heart. -[3605.80 --> 3608.44] Though outwardly we are wasting away, -[3608.58 --> 3610.90] yet inwardly we are being renewed -[3610.90 --> 3612.28] day by day. -[3612.38 --> 3613.16] For our light -[3613.16 --> 3614.72] and momentary troubles -[3614.72 --> 3616.32] are achieving for us -[3616.32 --> 3618.06] an eternal glory -[3618.06 --> 3620.00] that far outweighs them all. -[3620.32 --> 3621.22] And so what do we do? -[3621.48 --> 3622.64] What does a life lived -[3622.64 --> 3624.04] worthy of the calling look like? -[3624.10 --> 3625.84] We fix our eyes on -[3625.84 --> 3627.34] not what is seen, -[3627.46 --> 3629.30] but on what is unseen. -[3630.02 --> 3631.76] Since what is seen is temporary, -[3632.02 --> 3632.84] but what is unseen -[3632.84 --> 3634.88] is eternal. -[3634.88 --> 3636.64] This is what it looks like -[3636.64 --> 3637.94] to live lives -[3637.94 --> 3639.02] worthy of God. -[3639.48 --> 3640.24] Transformation, -[3640.80 --> 3641.20] truth, -[3641.58 --> 3642.28] and testimony. -[3642.86 --> 3643.80] Children of faith -[3643.80 --> 3645.46] encouraged and surrounded -[3645.46 --> 3646.56] by spiritual mothers -[3646.56 --> 3647.48] and fathers -[3647.48 --> 3648.82] and all of us together -[3648.82 --> 3650.24] fixing our eyes -[3650.24 --> 3651.66] on the glory -[3651.66 --> 3653.12] of Christ. -[3654.78 --> 3655.18] And so, -[3656.12 --> 3659.24] as you go into this week, -[3660.38 --> 3664.18] as you go into this week, -[3664.18 --> 3666.52] I wonder if you would be bold enough -[3666.52 --> 3669.64] to pray this prayer with me. -[3670.82 --> 3673.44] I wonder if you would be courageous enough -[3673.44 --> 3674.90] to take this prayer -[3674.90 --> 3677.28] into your Monday -[3677.28 --> 3678.42] and Tuesday, -[3679.06 --> 3679.42] Wednesday, -[3680.02 --> 3680.42] Thursday, -[3680.96 --> 3681.26] Friday, -[3681.50 --> 3682.30] and Saturday. -[3683.74 --> 3685.52] Would you pray this prayer with me? -[3685.52 --> 3687.36] Lord Jesus, -[3688.06 --> 3689.20] reveal to me -[3689.20 --> 3690.52] the next generation -[3690.52 --> 3692.70] of those who will believe. -[3693.60 --> 3695.24] Send me to them -[3695.24 --> 3697.24] that I may declare the gospel. -[3697.78 --> 3698.72] Send me out -[3698.72 --> 3700.96] that I may speak the truth, -[3701.26 --> 3702.68] may speak it plainly, -[3702.80 --> 3704.38] and may speak it with humility -[3704.38 --> 3709.20] concerned only with your glory. -[3709.20 --> 3712.98] Would you pray this with me? -[3714.04 --> 3714.78] And who knows? -[3715.44 --> 3716.26] Who knows? -[3717.22 --> 3718.38] Maybe we will look back -[3718.38 --> 3719.12] on this moment -[3719.12 --> 3720.84] and see revival -[3720.84 --> 3722.14] in this land. -[3722.80 --> 3723.02] Amen? -[3724.02 --> 3725.10] Oh, come on, guys. -[3726.30 --> 3726.82] Amen? -[3732.36 --> 3733.42] Let's pray this prayer. -[3733.42 --> 3738.86] Lord Jesus, -[3739.86 --> 3741.62] reveal to me -[3741.62 --> 3742.42] the next generation -[3742.96 --> 3745.52] of those who will believe. -[3747.78 --> 3749.46] Send me to them -[3749.46 --> 3751.54] that I may declare the gospel. -[3753.04 --> 3753.80] Send me out -[3753.80 --> 3755.26] that I may speak the truth, -[3755.96 --> 3757.54] that I may speak it plainly, -[3757.70 --> 3759.28] that I may speak it with humility -[3759.28 --> 3763.30] concerned only with your glory. -[3763.42 --> 3769.94] May this be our prayer. -[3771.28 --> 3772.14] Lord Jesus, -[3772.28 --> 3773.08] we pray this -[3773.08 --> 3776.26] in your powerful name. -[3777.10 --> 3779.12] The name by which lives -[3779.12 --> 3780.38] are transformed. -[3781.40 --> 3783.74] The truth of who you are. -[3785.18 --> 3786.10] And the testimony -[3786.10 --> 3788.24] that you are calling us to live. -[3789.16 --> 3790.20] In Jesus we pray. -[3791.04 --> 3791.40] Amen. -[3793.42 --> 3795.24] Amen. -[3795.24 --> 3812.66] With faith we see the hand of God -[3812.66 --> 3818.86] In the light of creation's grand design. -[3820.02 --> 3827.00] In the lives of those who prove his faithfulness. -[3827.00 --> 3832.72] Who walk by faith and not by sight. -[3836.82 --> 3842.10] By faith our fathers roam the earth. -[3842.66 --> 3849.38] With the power of his promise in their hearts. -[3849.38 --> 3856.72] Of a holy city built by God's own hand. -[3857.10 --> 3861.22] A place where peace and justice reign. -[3862.74 --> 3867.86] We will stand as children of the promise. -[3867.86 --> 3874.86] We will fix our eyes on him our souls reward. -[3875.92 --> 3881.86] Till the race is finished and the work is done. -[3883.64 --> 3887.86] We'll walk by faith and not by sight. -[3887.86 --> 3894.86] We'll walk by faith and not by sight. -[3894.86 --> 3896.86] And by faith the prophets all day. -[3898.44 --> 3903.58] With a longed for Messiah would appear. -[3905.26 --> 3910.86] With the power to break the chains of sin and death. -[3912.86 --> 3916.86] And rise triumphant from the grave. -[3916.86 --> 3926.52] My faith the church was called to go -[3926.52 --> 3933.96] In the power of the Spirit to the lost -[3933.96 --> 3941.08] To deliver captives and to preach good news -[3941.08 --> 3946.00] In every corner of the earth -[3946.00 --> 3952.50] We will stand as children of the promise -[3952.50 --> 3959.10] We will fix our eyes on Him on souls reward -[3959.10 --> 3966.52] Till the race is finished and the work is done -[3966.52 --> 3971.54] We'll walk by faith and not by sight -[3976.00 --> 3981.50] By faith the mountains shall be moved -[3981.50 --> 3987.00] And the power of the gospel shall prevail -[3987.00 --> 3994.50] For we know in Christ all things are possible -[3994.50 --> 4000.00] For the who call upon His name -[4000.00 --> 4006.50] We will stand as children of the promise -[4006.50 --> 4013.40] We will fix our eyes on Him on souls reward -[4013.40 --> 4020.00] Till the race is finished and the work is done -[4020.00 --> 4026.50] We'll walk by faith and not by sight -[4026.50 --> 4033.00] We will stand as children of the promise -[4033.00 --> 4039.00] We will fix our eyes on Him on souls reward -[4039.00 --> 4046.50] Till the race is finished and the work is done -[4046.50 --> 4051.00] We will walk by faith and not by sight -[4051.00 --> 4069.50] As we are sent out to live our faith courageously -[4069.50 --> 4073.90] I want to end this service with a blessing from God's word -[4073.90 --> 4079.00] Actually the way that Paul ends his letter to the church in Thessalonica -[4079.00 --> 4082.76] Before we go, just a quick reminder -[4082.76 --> 4085.54] That if you're going to stick around for the new members class -[4085.54 --> 4088.94] That's going to take place about 20 or 25 minutes -[4088.94 --> 4091.22] After the final song -[4091.22 --> 4092.68] And so you'll have time to grab a coffee -[4092.68 --> 4094.12] And hang out together -[4094.12 --> 4095.74] And then we'll meet in the multi-purpose room -[4095.74 --> 4098.96] Additionally, if you would like to meet with someone for prayer -[4098.96 --> 4100.94] There will be someone here up at the front -[4100.94 --> 4102.94] Probably with the yellow name tag on -[4102.94 --> 4104.90] Who'd love to meet you and pray with you -[4104.90 --> 4109.06] Go now this week with the blessing of God -[4109.06 --> 4114.22] May God Himself, the God of peace -[4114.22 --> 4117.68] Sanctify you through and through -[4117.68 --> 4121.86] And may your whole spirit, soul, and body -[4121.86 --> 4126.50] Be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ -[4126.50 --> 4129.00] The one who calls you is faithful -[4129.00 --> 4132.20] And He will do it -[4132.20 --> 4133.48] Amen -[4147.68 --> 4160.50] O church, arise and put your armor on -[4160.50 --> 4163.96] Hear the call of Christ our captain -[4163.96 --> 4170.00] For now the weak can say that they are strong -[4170.00 --> 4173.28] In the strength that God has given -[4173.28 --> 4178.60] With shield of faith and belt of truth -[4178.60 --> 4183.46] We'll stand against the devil's light -[4183.46 --> 4188.90] An army bull whose battle cries love -[4188.90 --> 4192.28] Wishing out to those in darkness -[4192.28 --> 4193.10] Amen -[4193.10 --> 4202.32] A call to war -[4202.32 --> 4205.32] To love the captive soul -[4205.32 --> 4208.60] But to rage against the captor -[4208.60 --> 4211.72] And with the sword -[4211.72 --> 4214.66] That makes the wounded whole -[4214.66 --> 4218.84] We will fight with faith and valor -[4218.84 --> 4223.48] With faith that drowns on every side -[4223.48 --> 4227.66] We know the outcome is secure -[4227.66 --> 4227.94] We know the outcome is secure -[4227.94 --> 4229.80] With Christ the land -[4229.80 --> 4233.52] The prize for which He died -[4233.52 --> 4237.80] The inheritance of nations -[4237.80 --> 4243.12] Arise, shine for the risen Son -[4243.12 --> 4244.12] For the risen Son -[4244.12 --> 4258.12] Lift your eyes -[4258.12 --> 4265.12] We are His radiant pride -[4265.12 --> 4270.44] Arise, arise, arise -[4270.44 --> 4275.44] Arise, arise -[4275.44 --> 4280.08] See the cross where love and mercy meet -[4280.08 --> 4283.44] As the Son of God is stricken -[4283.44 --> 4289.66] Then see His foes like crushed beneath His feet -[4289.66 --> 4293.06] For the conqueror has risen -[4293.06 --> 4298.38] And as the stone is rolled away -[4298.38 --> 4303.06] And Christ emerges from the grave -[4303.06 --> 4308.38] The victory march continues till the day -[4308.38 --> 4312.38] Every eye and heart shall see Him -[4312.38 --> 4317.00] So Spirit come -[4317.00 --> 4320.18] Put strength in every strife -[4320.18 --> 4323.44] Give grace for every hurdle -[4323.44 --> 4326.36] And we may run -[4326.36 --> 4329.54] With faith to win the prize -[4329.54 --> 4332.84] Of a servant good and faithful -[4332.84 --> 4338.02] As saints of old still lie the way -[4338.02 --> 4342.58] We challenge triumphs of His grace -[4342.58 --> 4344.18] We hear their calls -[4344.18 --> 4351.40] Fall and hunger for the day when Christ will stand in glory. -[4353.64 --> 4361.20] Arise, shine, for your light has come. -[4361.20 --> 4370.14] Arise, shine, for the risen Son. -[4370.14 --> 4379.24] Lift your eyes, we are His radiant bright. -[4379.98 --> 4385.36] Arise, O Church, arise. -[4385.36 --> 4397.24] Arise, shine, for your light has come. -[4397.24 --> 4405.80] Arise, shine, for the risen Son. -[4406.34 --> 4415.04] Lift your eyes, we are His radiant bright. -[4415.04 --> 4421.28] Arise, O Church, arise. -[4427.24 --> 4433.50] Arise, O Church, arise. -[4433.50 --> 4436.34] Arise, O Church, arise. -[4436.34 --> 4440.30] Arise, O Church, arise. -[4440.30 --> 4470.28] Thank you. -[4470.30 --> 4500.28] Thank you. -[4500.30 --> 4530.28] Thank you. -[4530.30 --> 4546.30] Thank you. -[4560.30 --> 4590.28] Thank you. -[4590.30 --> 4620.28] Thank you. -[4620.30 --> 4650.28] Thank you. -[4650.30 --> 4680.28] Thank you. -[4680.30 --> 4710.28] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, January 21, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, January 21, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 4d072ed1536ebb6c510d4c6a259c2235c1de9e76..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, January 21, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,146 +0,0 @@ -• Announcements for upcoming events -• Introduction and welcome by Kevin Lobert -• Release of church podcast, "The Narthex" -• Video promotion for summer camp at Cascade Family Bible Camp -• Testimony about the importance of a "spirit thing" (undefined concept) in one's life -• Discussion of a bocce ball tournament with potential participants from the church -• Promotion of KSK Family Battle Camp as a fun event for all ages -• Invitation to participate in the camp, highlighting its safety and family-friendly atmosphere -• Mention of a discount for Canadians and first-time attendees -• Pastor Chris leads worship and invites congregation to greet each other -• Scripture reading and hymn singing -• Worship and adoration of God -• Recognition of God's sovereignty over creation -• Confession of personal shortcomings and sinfulness -• Request for forgiveness and mercy through Jesus' grace -• Expression of gratitude for God's love and redemption -• Reflection on the human condition and need for spiritual guidance -• Baptism of Jane as a covenant child -• Explanation of why infants are baptized in the church's tradition -• Discussion of the meaning and significance of baptism in relation to God's promises and Jesus' life and death -• Reference to biblical passages (Genesis 15, Acts 2:39, 1 Peter 2) to support the practice of infant baptism -• Questions asked to Jesus and Megan regarding their commitment to raise Jane in the Christian faith -• Baptism of Jane -• Significance of water in baptism and spiritual rebirth -• Invitation for congregation to promise love and support -• Gift-giving ceremony and presentation of certificate and book -• Transition from candidate's life as an individual to part of the church family -• Responsibility and commitment to lead and guide her in faith -• The speaker expresses the desire for a young girl, Jane, to stand up and claim her faith in Jesus Christ as her own. -• A prayer is offered for Jane and the congregation, thanking God for the sacrament of baptism and asking Him to cause faith in Jane to take deep root and grow. -• The speaker prays that Jane will know God's presence and blessing throughout her life, and that she will always turn to God and see His face. -• A song of response is led by the worship team as a continuation of worship together. -• Praise to God's goodness -• Faithfulness of God throughout speaker's life -• Trust in God through darkest times -• Surrendering everything to God -• Gratitude for God's grace and goodness -• Offerings being given to Advocate -• Psalm 139 reading: creation and purpose in womb -• Praises and thanksgiving to Jesus -• Discussion of children's fears and anxieties -• Introduction to a lesson on trusting God with fears and worries -• Call for the congregation to stand up and participate in the lesson -• Congregational prayer led by Andy, including praise, thanksgiving, and petitioning -• Mention of recent deaths and prayer for comfort and preparation for mortality -• Prayer for specific individuals and families, including recovery from illness and safe returns home -• Prayers for various countries and situations around the world -• Discussion of the Jewish people's struggles with hatred and violence -• Request to God to allow His Holy Spirit to work in the hearts of Jews, that they may see Jesus as their Messiah -• Prayer for the return of Jesus Christ and renewal/ restoration of the earth -• Blessing and prayer for Pastor Chris as he preaches the word of God -• A personal anecdote about receiving a message from Jesus regarding a baptism on January 21st, coinciding with the day's focus on Romans 11:25-32 -• Introduction to the passage in Romans 11:25-32, noting its difficulty and importance -• The passage of scripture mentions the salvation of all Israel and quotes from various biblical sources to support this idea. -• Discussion of whether "all Israel" refers to ethnic Israel, the country of Israel, or a broader group including past, present, and future individuals who identify as Israel. -• Exploration of what is meant by the "full number of Gentiles" and how it relates to Jesus' return. -• Questions about when this salvation will happen, whether it's already occurring, and how one can know or see it. -• The speaker notes that they won't be able to answer all questions raised during the discussion, but encourages listeners to continue exploring their queries through study and small groups. -• The speaker wants to discuss discipleship with a starting point for an ongoing conversation -• Paul's statement that "all Israel will be saved" is questioned, specifically what he means by "all Israel without distinction" -• The mechanism for this salvation is also discussed -• Assumptions are made about the interpretation of scripture, including: - • That Paul won't contradict himself in Romans chapters 9-11 and throughout his letters - • That there are no contradictions within the New Testament canon - • That there are no contradictions between the Old and New Testaments -• Consistency of Scripture -• Shared doctrine of inspiration -• No contradictions in the Bible, but difficult passages to reconcile -• Scripture's infallibility and God-breathed nature -• Need for context and understanding Scripture as a whole to interpret individual teachings -• Paul's teaching on salvation by faith in Jesus Christ -• The speaker explains that it can be confusing to understand who Paul is referring to as "all Israel" in Galatians 26 -• Paul distinguishes between ethnic Israel and spiritual Israel in Galatians 9:6-8, stating that not all descendants of Israel are truly part of Israel -• He emphasizes that children of the promise (Abraham's descendants) are true Israelites -• In Galatians 10:12, Paul reiterates that there is no difference between Jew and Gentile in terms of salvation by faith -• The speaker notes that Paul returns to distinguishing ethnic Israel from spiritual Israel in Galatians 10:16-21 -• He highlights the concept of a remnant chosen by God's grace in Galatians 11:5 -• The speaker discusses the meaning of "Israel" in Romans 11 -• Different interpretations of what "all Israel" refers to: ethnic or spiritual Israel -• The speaker disagrees with John Calvin's interpretation that it refers to a spiritual marker, not an ethnic one -• The use of the tree metaphor in Romans 11 is discussed and contrasted with Paul's actual usage of the word -• The concept of salvation coming to Gentiles to make Israel envious is referenced -• The concept of "Gentiles" as an ethnic marker for non-Jewish people is discussed -• Paul's promise in verse 23 that Israel will be grafted back in if they do not persist in unbelief -• The metaphor of the olive tree, where unbelieving Israel has been cut off and believing Gentiles have been grafted back in -• Paul's promise that Israel can be grafted back into the tree as a natural branch -• The contrast between Gentiles who believe and ethnic Israel who does not (or did not) believe -• The speaker describes Paul's explanation of Israel as a mystery -• The speaker argues that if Paul was only referring to elected Gentiles and the remnant of Jews, it wouldn't be a mystery -• The speaker believes that the concept of "all Israel" is difficult to understand, which is why it's more likely to be true -• The speaker explains that when Paul uses the word "all", he means ethnic Israel in a general sense -• The speaker references 2 Chronicles 12:1 as an example of how the phrase "all Israel" can refer to a broader group -• The speaker argues that Rehoboam, king of Judah, is referred to as "king over all Israel" in Chronicles, demonstrating how the term can be used to refer to a larger entity -• The Chronicles of Israel are interesting because all Israel had abandoned the law of the Lord, yet a prophet prophesied about a king named Josiah who would bring the people back to God. -• In 1 Kings 13, there is a recounting of a man of God from Judah who prophesies that a king will come and gives his name as Josiah in the line of David. -• Josiah becomes king around 300 years after Rehoboam and brings reforms to bring the people back to God. -• The Bible describes all Israel as walking away, but with exceptions, allowing for distinctions within it. -• This distinction is relevant because Paul's reference to "all Israel" in Romans 11:26 may be referring to a mass of Jewish people who will be saved. -• Paul's use of the word "Israel" in Romans chapter 11 -• Israel as referring to both ethnic and spiritual identities -• The concept of a believing remnant within Israel -• Possible interpretations of Paul's words, including end times or mass revival scenarios -• Contrasting views among scholars on what Paul intended -• Paul's language allows for a steady but growing number of Jews to become Christian -• This process would eventually lead to most believing in Jesus -• Paul's confidence comes from his interpretation of Isaiah and God's plan of salvation -• Ethnic Israel matters in God's plan of salvation, and a day will come when most of them remember their role -• The ground of their salvation is the same as for others -• Salvation is granted by God's mercy -• Paul says that if they do not persist in unbelief, they will be grafted in -• The promise must be believed for it to be effective -• Faith is necessary for the promise to be realized -• Scripture should interpret Scripture when studying the Bible -• Salvation is a gift from God's grace -• Faith in Christ unites us to Him and grants salvation -• The true descendants of Father Abraham are those who do His will, recognizing Jesus as the one true Son -• It is by God's choosing and grace that we are saved through faith -• Salvation is not earned by works but is a gift from God. -• The way of salvation is the same for Israel as it is for all people -• Belief in Jesus as Messiah and Lord is required for salvation -• Faith is granted to the elect, but also requires human response -• God's mercy is the determining factor for salvation, not human effort or desire -• God can use unbelief among one group (Israel) to spur faith among another group (Gentiles) -• Gentile believers are included as heirs of the promise and seeds of Abraham -• God will eventually bring Israel back to faith through the example of Gentile believers. -• The concept of the "boomerang of salvation" where God's mercy is given to Gentiles due to Jewish rejection, but ultimately returns to Israel -• Belief in Jesus as Messiah, Lord, and Son of God is necessary for salvation for both Gentiles and ethnic Israel -• There will be a greater number of Jews who believe than expected, with Paul's hope rooted in God's promise and call -• The reality that God's word accomplishes its purpose, and all peoples (Gentiles and Jews) will receive mercy and believe through faith by grace -• The concept of God's mercy being available to all peoples, regardless of faith background. -• The idea that humility is necessary for Gentile believers, as emphasized by Paul in chapter 11. -• The reassurance that nothing can thwart God's plan of salvation, including rejection or stubbornness. -• The comfort and assurance that God will ultimately bring about the salvation He has decreed. -• The speaker has a plan that will not be thwarted, regardless of the efforts of parents -• God's mission through the church is to proclaim the gospel to all people -• Jesus Christ lived the life we should have lived and died the death we deserve, making him the Lord over all creation -• This undergirds our call to mission and encourages us to go forth and proclaim the gospel -• No one comes to God except through Jesus Christ -• The assurance of eternal salvation through Jesus -• Mission to proclaim the truth of the gospel and make it known who Jesus is and what He has done -• Trusting in God's strength and grace during difficult times -• Being strong in Savior's love and recognizing Him as Lord, even in the midst of storms -• Waiting for Jesus' return with trumpet sound and desiring to be found dressed in His righteousness alone -• The speaker expresses gratitude for God's name -• Repetition of "I will choose to send you" -• Multiple iterations of the same phrase continue throughout the transcript \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, January 21, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, January 21, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 45b26318f62e733502805d91147b19152507b416..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, January 21, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2899 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 92.00] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 122.00] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 152.00] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 182.00] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 212.00] Thank you. -[212.00 --> 214.00] Thank you. -[214.00 --> 243.98] Thank you. -[244.00 --> 273.98] Thank you. -[274.00 --> 274.64] What hockey game? -[277.02 --> 279.12] Good morning, everyone. -[281.68 --> 285.16] Good morning, everyone. -[286.00 --> 287.06] There we go. -[287.14 --> 289.60] Welcome to Langley Manual CRC this morning. -[289.68 --> 290.80] My name is Kevin Lobert. -[291.00 --> 292.58] I'm the youth pastor here. -[293.08 --> 300.08] An extra welcome to any family and guests here to celebrate with us the baptism of Jane Hernandez. -[300.08 --> 302.10] It's so good to see you all here as well. -[302.52 --> 308.12] Before we get going in worship this morning, there's just a few announcements I'd like to bring to your attention. -[308.94 --> 315.98] The first is that this Tuesday night, council will be meeting this week to chat about the end of last year and the beginning of this year. -[316.00 --> 317.30] And we'll be rolling with that. -[317.62 --> 319.70] So council members, we'll see you there. -[319.82 --> 321.80] Church, just know that that's happening in the background. -[321.80 --> 325.20] 2020 is tonight for all of you youth. -[325.42 --> 330.52] So if you are a youth or a leader here today, we'll see you tonight here at the church, 6.30 p.m. -[330.90 --> 332.34] Looking forward to that as well. -[332.34 --> 337.20] So finally, a third announcement for you this morning is something new. -[337.36 --> 342.16] This week, for the first time, our church is actually going to be releasing a podcast. -[342.98 --> 347.40] This is a project that Pastor Chris, Josh, and myself have been a little bit excited about for the last little bit. -[347.48 --> 349.50] And we finally got rolling on it. -[349.56 --> 354.64] And so this podcast will be talking about the previous Sunday's sermons. -[354.64 --> 358.54] And we'll be talking about church and theology and current events and those types of things. -[358.54 --> 362.38] And so they'll be about 30 minutes long or so, and they will come out every week. -[362.54 --> 367.22] And so if that's something that you're interested in, the link to those will be in both the bulletin and on the website. -[367.52 --> 372.22] But you can also download them wherever you download any of your podcasts. -[372.38 --> 373.60] So they will be available everywhere. -[373.92 --> 375.72] The podcast is called The Narthex. -[375.90 --> 378.70] So give a look for that and hear more about that. -[378.92 --> 382.78] It stars one of our dear friends as well, who's smiling at me right now. -[382.86 --> 385.00] So see if you can figure out who that is. -[385.00 --> 393.06] Finally, the last announcement this morning is we have a video to show you promoing a summer camp happening this summer. -[393.16 --> 394.54] And so the video is going to play right now. -[394.94 --> 397.32] And then Aaron Wagener and I are going to talk about that for a little bit. -[397.32 --> 397.38] Thank you. -[415.00 --> 436.14] It's not a family trait. -[436.14 --> 438.08] It's nothing that I ain't. -[438.26 --> 441.96] And it didn't come from skating with holy rotors. -[442.20 --> 444.14] It's an early warning sign. -[444.42 --> 446.12] It keeps my life in line. -[446.32 --> 447.98] But it's so hard to define. -[448.24 --> 449.04] Never mind. -[449.14 --> 450.82] It's just a spirit thing. -[451.02 --> 452.90] It's just a hole in touch. -[453.12 --> 456.10] It's like a circuit judge in the brain. -[456.78 --> 458.88] It's just a spirit thing. -[459.08 --> 460.94] It's here to guard my heart. -[461.08 --> 464.06] It's just a little hard to explain. -[464.06 --> 470.16] It pushes when I quit. -[470.46 --> 472.14] It smells like counterfeit. -[472.50 --> 475.86] Sometimes it works a bit like a teleprompter. -[476.48 --> 478.18] When it's teleprompter new. -[478.56 --> 480.20] I pray you let it do. -[480.54 --> 482.20] And I'll help you with the how. -[482.40 --> 485.04] But for now it's just a spirit thing. -[485.22 --> 487.08] It's just a hole in touch. -[487.08 --> 490.40] It's like a circuit judge in the brain. -[490.92 --> 493.08] It's just a spirit thing. -[493.26 --> 495.12] It's here to guard my heart. -[495.30 --> 498.16] It's just a little hard to explain. -[498.16 --> 518.40] And you know he doesn't. -[518.40 --> 533.44] And so as the video showed you, -[533.58 --> 535.52] that is Cascade Family Bible Camp -[535.52 --> 537.84] at Warm Beach down in Washington. -[537.84 --> 540.82] It's going to take place this July, July 4 to 8. -[541.98 --> 544.08] And Aaron's up here to talk about that. -[544.14 --> 545.64] I'm going to hold the mic just for a little bit longer. -[545.82 --> 547.62] We got invited out last year, -[547.62 --> 549.78] the youth ministry, the youth leaders and I -[549.78 --> 553.52] to lead the youth ministry at Warm Beach there last year. -[553.54 --> 554.40] And it was so much fun. -[554.52 --> 555.50] So we had a great time. -[555.54 --> 557.38] Myself and four youth leaders went down. -[557.78 --> 559.76] We met up with a few other members from this church. -[559.90 --> 560.82] The Chepkamas were there. -[561.08 --> 561.70] Hi, Chepkamas. -[561.98 --> 563.04] Yeah, they were there. -[563.10 --> 563.84] We hung out with them. -[564.12 --> 566.52] I heard they got second place in a bocce ball tournament. -[566.52 --> 568.96] And so if you want to try to take them on in that, -[569.28 --> 570.48] maybe they'll be back this year. -[570.80 --> 571.86] The Hubards were there as well. -[571.92 --> 573.54] And there's a few others from our church as well, -[573.64 --> 574.48] plus these wagonards. -[574.60 --> 575.94] So it was a great time. -[575.94 --> 578.44] I'm going to let Aaron describe it a little bit more in depth. -[578.58 --> 579.84] But do think about coming this year. -[580.88 --> 581.52] Good morning. -[581.74 --> 585.20] So I've been going to KSK Family Battle Camp -[585.20 --> 586.34] since I was about 12. -[586.80 --> 590.06] And so my kids have not missed a year. -[590.76 --> 591.60] So that was pretty cool. -[591.82 --> 595.52] And I was so glad that some of the people from church -[595.52 --> 596.12] were able to hear. -[596.28 --> 597.56] Kevin and Nikki did a great job. -[597.92 --> 598.80] Josh and Heather, -[599.10 --> 600.72] and they did a great job with the youth. -[600.86 --> 603.08] I would love to see more people from church. -[603.08 --> 606.12] When I was a kid, it was packed. -[606.68 --> 608.62] And Canadians were all over the place. -[608.84 --> 609.58] And it was awesome. -[610.10 --> 611.58] And I'd like to get that back to that point. -[611.80 --> 616.58] There is a discount for Canadians and first-time comers. -[616.86 --> 619.76] So I'll get Kevin that information and he can get it out. -[620.30 --> 621.48] There's something for everyone, -[622.04 --> 627.42] from little kids to people that have years under their belt. -[627.42 --> 629.78] And there's bikes. -[630.06 --> 630.82] You've got to take bikes. -[630.96 --> 632.54] Kids are riding bikes all over the place. -[632.68 --> 635.38] And it's just a very safe place for kids to just be kids -[635.38 --> 637.54] and just roam free. -[637.92 --> 641.52] And so I'd love to see people show up and have a good time. -[641.92 --> 642.28] Thank you. -[643.34 --> 645.76] We're going to make a little Emanuel Village there this year. -[645.82 --> 647.26] So let's see if we can sign up in droves. -[647.26 --> 649.48] I'm going to invite Pastor Chris forward now, -[649.62 --> 652.32] and he is going to lead us in God's greeting this morning. -[655.92 --> 657.16] Good morning. -[657.42 --> 658.30] Good morning. -[658.40 --> 662.14] Can I ask you to stand, if you are able, and where you are at? -[663.22 --> 667.20] We gather in this place because God calls us into his presence, -[667.36 --> 669.42] and we receive that presence. -[669.56 --> 673.28] We mark that presence by receiving God's greeting. -[673.48 --> 676.46] And so I invite you to open your heart, maybe even your hands, -[676.88 --> 681.16] take on a posture to receive God's greeting in this space together. -[682.78 --> 685.82] Grace, mercy, and peace to you. -[685.82 --> 690.02] From God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, Son, and our Savior, -[690.44 --> 692.68] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[693.36 --> 694.14] All God's people said? -[695.00 --> 695.48] Amen. -[696.08 --> 698.38] I'm going to invite you to turn to those around you -[698.38 --> 700.02] and welcome them into worship. -[700.32 --> 702.52] Please remember it's cold and flu season, -[702.70 --> 706.92] and so not everyone wants to shake hands or hug or holy kiss or the like. -[706.92 --> 708.62] So greet each other appropriately. -[711.62 --> 712.36] Peace of Christ. -[712.36 --> 730.80] Thank you. -[735.02 --> 736.04] Thank you so much. -[736.04 --> 748.70] Who has held the oceans in his hands? -[749.62 --> 752.24] Who has numbered every grain of sand? -[753.48 --> 756.80] Kings and nations tremble at his voice, -[756.80 --> 760.14] and all creation trembles at his voice. -[761.10 --> 765.18] Behold our God, seated on his throne, -[766.02 --> 768.04] come let us adore him. -[768.94 --> 772.68] Behold our King, nothing can compare, -[773.68 --> 776.62] come let us adore him. -[777.70 --> 778.76] Let's sing those words. -[778.76 --> 795.48] Who has held the oceans in his hands? -[795.48 --> 801.98] Who has numbered every grain of sand? -[802.62 --> 808.82] Kings and nations tremble at his voice, -[808.82 --> 815.82] all creation rises to rejoice. -[817.58 --> 824.68] Behold our God, seated on his throne, -[825.68 --> 829.98] come let us adore him. -[829.98 --> 837.48] Behold our King, nothing can compare, -[837.48 --> 844.48] come let us adore him. -[844.48 --> 856.72] Who has given counsel to the Lord? -[856.72 --> 862.88] Who can question any of his words? -[863.42 --> 869.32] Who can be the one who knows all things? -[869.32 --> 873.96] Who can't fathom all his word? -[873.96 --> 875.40] The Lord? -[875.40 --> 881.30] Would you love our grace, -[881.30 --> 889.40] come let us adore him? -[889.40 --> 904.40] Behold on Him, nothing will appear, and let us adore Him. -[904.40 --> 922.40] Who has felt the nails upon His hands, bearing all the guilt of sinful men? -[922.40 --> 936.18] Lord eternal, humble to the grave, Jesus Savior, risen now to reign. -[936.18 --> 949.18] Behold on God, singing on His throne, come let us adore Him. -[949.18 --> 962.96] Behold on Him, nothing will appear, and let us adore Him. -[962.96 --> 969.96] Behold on Him, nothing will appear, and let us adore Him. -[969.96 --> 977.96] Behold on Him, nothing will appear, and let us adore Him. -[977.96 --> 984.96] Behold on Him, nothing will appear, and let us adore Him. -[984.96 --> 992.96] Behold on Him, nothing will appear, and let us adore Him. -[992.96 --> 999.96] Behold on Him, nothing will appear. -[999.96 --> 1006.44] Let your glory for the Lord -[1006.44 --> 1012.28] Let your glory for the Lord -[1012.28 --> 1018.36] Let your glory for the Lord -[1018.36 --> 1023.56] Behold our God -[1023.56 --> 1026.76] Seated on His throne -[1026.76 --> 1031.16] God let us adore Him -[1031.16 --> 1036.16] Behold our King -[1036.16 --> 1039.16] Let your glory for the Lord -[1039.16 --> 1044.16] Let us adore Him -[1044.16 --> 1049.16] Behold our God -[1049.16 --> 1052.76] Seated on His throne -[1052.76 --> 1057.16] Come let us adore Him -[1057.16 --> 1062.16] Behold our King -[1062.16 --> 1066.16] Nothing can compare -[1066.16 --> 1072.16] Come let us adore Him -[1072.16 --> 1075.56] Come let us adore Him -[1075.56 --> 1077.96] I am King -[1077.96 --> 1084.36] merciful -[1084.96 --> 1088.96] mirror -[1088.96 --> 1090.96] answering -[1090.96 --> 1094.10] and -[1094.10 --> 1104.98] You are Lord of creation and all of the world -[1104.98 --> 1109.28] Lord of land and the sea -[1109.28 --> 1113.04] Lord of land and the sea -[1113.04 --> 1115.10] Lord of the sky -[1115.10 --> 1119.26] Lord of all for you will be -[1119.26 --> 1121.38] We bow down -[1121.38 --> 1124.38] We bow down -[1124.38 --> 1126.38] We bow down -[1126.38 --> 1129.38] We bow down -[1129.38 --> 1131.38] We bow down -[1131.38 --> 1133.38] We bow down -[1133.38 --> 1135.38] We bow down -[1135.38 --> 1139.38] Lord of all for you will be -[1139.38 --> 1147.38] You are King of creation and King of my life -[1147.38 --> 1151.38] The King of land and the sea -[1151.38 --> 1153.38] Lord of the land and the sea -[1153.38 --> 1155.38] Lord of the heavens -[1155.38 --> 1157.38] Lord of the sky -[1157.38 --> 1159.38] We bow down -[1159.38 --> 1161.38] We bow down -[1161.38 --> 1163.38] We bow down -[1163.38 --> 1165.38] We bow down -[1165.38 --> 1167.38] We bow down -[1167.38 --> 1171.38] We bow down -[1171.38 --> 1173.38] We bow down -[1173.38 --> 1175.38] We bow down -[1175.38 --> 1177.38] We bow down -[1177.38 --> 1179.38] We welcome to our name -[1179.38 --> 1185.24] Let's pray. -[1188.82 --> 1195.50] O Lord, you are our shepherd, and yet we selfishly want. -[1196.66 --> 1201.08] We confess that we take comfort in earthly things rather than in you. -[1202.08 --> 1206.12] We wander tempting paths when our eyes should be on you. -[1206.12 --> 1209.70] We look away when we should act. -[1210.76 --> 1214.28] We get angry when we could offer peace. -[1215.40 --> 1220.18] We hate our enemies when we should love them as we love ourselves. -[1221.10 --> 1225.92] We search for financial security when you provide all we need. -[1227.56 --> 1233.38] Dear God, we fall so short of being the Christian example that we should be. -[1233.38 --> 1237.94] We admit that we can feel like we are broken. -[1239.42 --> 1241.74] Lord, we ask for your forgiveness. -[1245.24 --> 1249.26] We know that your mercy is from everlasting to everlasting, -[1249.66 --> 1256.52] and are reminded that in your amazing grace through Jesus, we are forgiven. -[1256.52 --> 1260.36] What love you have shown us, Lord. -[1261.44 --> 1263.24] Your love is beyond measure. -[1264.54 --> 1268.56] Help us to always put you at the center of our lives, we pray. -[1269.64 --> 1270.00] Amen. -[1270.00 --> 1286.10] You're alone. -[1286.10 --> 1305.84] All these pieces broken in sky -[1305.84 --> 1313.02] In mercy gathered, man dead and old -[1313.02 --> 1319.76] Empty hands, and humble Savior -[1319.76 --> 1325.84] I'm inside, I'm inside -[1325.84 --> 1334.34] Amazing grace, and sweet answer -[1334.34 --> 1339.84] Savior, I wish I could -[1339.84 --> 1350.58] Oh, I once was mine, and I was blind -[1350.58 --> 1357.32] Oh, I can see you now -[1357.32 --> 1367.44] Oh, I can see the love in your eyes -[1367.44 --> 1374.18] Laying your surprise -[1374.18 --> 1382.18] Praise in your love and to the Lord -[1382.18 --> 1400.92] You take our fear, you take our weakness -[1400.92 --> 1406.92] You set your treasure in jars of clay -[1406.92 --> 1413.66] So take this humble, happy earth -[1413.66 --> 1420.40] And I'm so, no way to see your love in me -[1420.40 --> 1428.40] Amazing grace, and sweet and sad -[1428.40 --> 1433.40] And save the flesh of you -[1433.40 --> 1442.14] Oh, I once was lost, but now I am blind -[1442.14 --> 1446.14] It's blind, but now I see -[1446.14 --> 1451.14] Oh, I can see your love -[1451.14 --> 1460.14] Oh, I can see the love in your eyes -[1460.14 --> 1466.88] Oh, I can see your love in your eyes -[1466.88 --> 1473.88] Amazing and broken to life -[1473.88 --> 1475.62] Amazing and holy, to the stars -[1475.62 --> 1484.62] Thank you, thank you -[1484.62 --> 1487.22] April and to the stars -[1487.22 --> 1490.16] Now I am -[1490.16 --> 1511.34] In this embrace, I see the sun, but set a march like me. -[1511.34 --> 1523.58] Oh, I once was lost, but never thought it was gone, but now I see. -[1524.80 --> 1528.04] Oh, I can see you now. -[1528.04 --> 1549.70] Oh, I can see the love in your eyes, laying yours on top, raising up a broken child. -[1558.04 --> 1567.16] Why don't you take a seat together? -[1567.16 --> 1567.22] Okay. -[1575.22 --> 1587.12] This morning, it is our great privilege to come together and administer the sacrament of baptism to Jane. -[1588.04 --> 1595.68] One of our, though no longer the youngest, one of our youngest worship participants and members here. -[1596.52 --> 1598.72] Before we do this, I want to be really clear. -[1599.08 --> 1606.94] In our church, we don't believe that there's anything magical about the water that we are about to apply to Jane. -[1607.30 --> 1611.94] The water doesn't wash away original sin or save this child. -[1612.14 --> 1615.10] Only Jesus' life and death does that. -[1615.20 --> 1615.36] Amen? -[1615.36 --> 1630.78] We believe, like the Bible teaches, that this child is sinful by nature and that the promises of God for the forgiveness of sins and life lived in the Holy Spirit are offered to her. -[1631.26 --> 1632.96] That's Acts 2, verse 39. -[1632.96 --> 1642.66] And so, in our church, we baptize infants not out of superstition or even out of tradition or because we like really cute babies. -[1642.78 --> 1645.18] And if you haven't met Jane yet, she's super adorable. -[1646.42 --> 1653.32] We baptize infants because they are covenant children and should therefore receive the sign of the covenant. -[1653.32 --> 1655.64] But what is a covenant? -[1656.18 --> 1657.30] And what are these signs? -[1658.64 --> 1665.12] In Genesis 15, all the way back in the beginning of the Bible, God made a covenant with Abraham. -[1665.88 --> 1673.00] But this covenant was sealed and signed with the symbol, the sign of circumcision in Genesis 17. -[1673.66 --> 1675.28] And God blessed Abraham. -[1675.28 --> 1678.72] Now, for Abraham, that meant two particular things. -[1678.86 --> 1681.90] It meant offspring, children, and it meant land. -[1683.16 --> 1691.76] But at the heart of the covenant is God's promise that he would be God to Abraham and to his children. -[1692.60 --> 1699.36] And so God cut a covenant into Israel's flesh, carving out a people for himself. -[1699.36 --> 1705.80] And then in the fullness of time, God sent his son, Jesus, to be our savior. -[1706.48 --> 1710.22] And in his death on the cross, our old self is dead and buried. -[1710.44 --> 1718.34] And in his resurrection, we rise to new life and look forward to the new creation, the end. -[1719.72 --> 1723.86] And so when we baptize in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, -[1723.86 --> 1731.84] the triune God seals our adoption and seals the promise, rather, of our adoption as his children -[1731.84 --> 1735.58] and writes his name invisibly on our foreheads. -[1736.30 --> 1737.60] He says in 1 Peter 2, -[1737.76 --> 1744.74] You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God. -[1744.90 --> 1749.26] Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God. -[1749.26 --> 1756.34] By baptism, we recognize the promise of a new identity in Jesus Christ. -[1757.80 --> 1762.88] And so as we come together today to administer the sacrament of baptism to Jane, -[1763.32 --> 1767.86] we do so with the weight of church history to encourage us -[1767.86 --> 1772.66] and with the example of redemptive history to confirm our practice. -[1773.22 --> 1776.48] We baptize in obedience to Christ's command, -[1776.48 --> 1786.28] and the sacrament that we are about to administer is a sign of the inclusion in the covenant community, -[1786.64 --> 1787.98] just as circumcision was. -[1788.36 --> 1792.70] The water that we are about to pour is a sign of the cleansing from sin, -[1793.08 --> 1796.76] just as the sprinkled blood of bulls and goats in the Old Testament was. -[1796.76 --> 1804.18] And it is our prayer today that Jane will take advantage of all her covenant privileges, -[1804.18 --> 1808.76] of all her regular hearing of these promises offered out to her, -[1808.82 --> 1811.92] and that she will acknowledge her Lord all the days of her life -[1811.92 --> 1815.68] and by faith make these promises her own. -[1816.88 --> 1819.18] So Jesus and Megan, I'm going to invite you to the front. -[1819.18 --> 1821.78] You're going to take a place up here. -[1822.28 --> 1823.66] I'm going to ask you just two questions, -[1823.92 --> 1827.54] and then we will baptize Jane together. -[1831.74 --> 1833.10] So I'm going to ask you two questions, -[1833.18 --> 1836.20] and I invite you to respond by saying we do with God's help. -[1838.80 --> 1839.70] Jesus and Megan, -[1839.70 --> 1842.24] Do you believe that Jane, -[1842.86 --> 1844.34] though sinful by nature, -[1844.48 --> 1847.98] is received by God in Christ as members of his covenant -[1847.98 --> 1849.76] and therefore ought to be baptized? -[1851.04 --> 1852.16] And then do you promise, -[1852.32 --> 1853.58] in reliance on the Holy Spirit -[1853.58 --> 1855.86] and with the help of the Christian community, -[1855.86 --> 1858.84] to do all you can in your power -[1858.84 --> 1860.04] to instruct Jane -[1860.04 --> 1862.62] and any other children the Lord may bless you with -[1862.62 --> 1863.90] in the Christian faith -[1863.90 --> 1865.34] and to lead her, -[1865.70 --> 1866.42] by example, -[1866.66 --> 1869.20] into the life of Christian discipleship? -[1869.20 --> 1870.20] What is your answer? -[1872.06 --> 1872.54] Amen. -[1873.80 --> 1875.18] Our Lord Jesus said, -[1875.48 --> 1877.08] Let the little children come to me -[1877.08 --> 1879.12] and do not hinder them, -[1879.24 --> 1881.40] for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. -[1881.48 --> 1883.30] And so we're going to follow that practice of Jesus. -[1884.06 --> 1886.12] Little children or children at heart, -[1886.54 --> 1887.86] if you'd like to come forward, -[1888.02 --> 1890.22] you can grab a seat here down at the front -[1890.22 --> 1892.46] and you can see a little bit more clearly -[1892.46 --> 1894.00] what's going on. -[1894.00 --> 1896.48] And you can remember that for many of you, -[1896.86 --> 1898.16] this was also done -[1898.16 --> 1900.30] when you were just an infant. -[1900.96 --> 1901.70] Come right in, -[1901.72 --> 1902.72] just right here on the floor -[1902.72 --> 1904.08] will be perfect. -[1908.18 --> 1908.96] Awesome job. -[1909.08 --> 1910.68] Oh, even with an excavator? -[1910.86 --> 1911.44] Love it. -[1911.44 --> 1918.96] All right. -[1918.96 --> 1919.82] I'm going to bring her in here. -[1922.98 --> 1924.78] So guys, we're going to take this water -[1924.78 --> 1927.42] and we're going to pour it -[1927.42 --> 1929.74] on Jane's head -[1929.74 --> 1930.82] in the name of the Father -[1930.82 --> 1931.62] and the Son -[1931.62 --> 1932.52] and the Holy Spirit. -[1932.84 --> 1934.34] And that's a picture for us, -[1934.38 --> 1935.90] a reminder for us, right, -[1935.96 --> 1938.36] that Jesus loved us so much -[1938.36 --> 1939.68] that he came into the world -[1939.68 --> 1941.68] to wash us and make us new -[1941.68 --> 1943.28] and that out of that same love -[1943.28 --> 1944.88] he calls us to be his own. -[1945.44 --> 1949.32] This water is a sign of that promise -[1949.32 --> 1952.50] and we make it real in this practice. -[1952.50 --> 1958.96] Janica Ramona Hernandez. -[1959.38 --> 1960.96] I baptize you in the name of the Father, -[1962.46 --> 1963.56] in the name of the Son, -[1964.80 --> 1966.16] in the name of the Holy Spirit. -[1967.08 --> 1967.38] Amen. -[1969.52 --> 1969.92] Amen. -[1969.92 --> 1970.12] Amen. -[1977.96 --> 1978.36] Amen. -[1978.36 --> 1978.48] Amen. -[1982.50 --> 1987.72] Church family, -[1988.28 --> 1989.80] congregation of the Lord Jesus Christ, -[1989.98 --> 1992.40] friends who are here visiting in support, -[1992.82 --> 1995.52] you also have an opportunity now -[1995.52 --> 1997.84] to promise your love and encouragement. -[1998.20 --> 1999.24] And so I'm going to ask you, -[1999.36 --> 2000.22] again, as you're able, -[2000.54 --> 2001.32] if you would stand -[2001.32 --> 2004.32] and I will ask you a series of questions -[2004.32 --> 2006.18] and then I will invite you to respond -[2006.18 --> 2006.96] by saying, -[2006.96 --> 2008.90] we do with God's help. -[2008.90 --> 2011.66] And so do you, -[2011.86 --> 2012.62] gathered here, -[2012.80 --> 2014.40] promise to love and courage -[2014.40 --> 2015.48] and support Jesus, -[2016.10 --> 2016.36] Megan, -[2016.50 --> 2016.96] and Jane -[2016.96 --> 2018.32] by welcoming them -[2018.32 --> 2020.00] into our church family, -[2020.36 --> 2021.80] by teaching the gospel -[2021.80 --> 2022.74] of God's love -[2022.74 --> 2024.28] and by being an example -[2024.28 --> 2025.28] of Christian faith -[2025.28 --> 2025.88] and character -[2025.88 --> 2027.18] and by giving them -[2027.18 --> 2028.24] strong support, -[2028.74 --> 2029.72] the strong support -[2029.72 --> 2030.80] of God's family -[2030.80 --> 2031.44] in fellowship, -[2032.00 --> 2032.26] prayer, -[2032.26 --> 2033.28] and service. -[2033.54 --> 2034.36] What is your answer? -[2034.96 --> 2035.48] Amen. -[2035.48 --> 2039.84] Now I often say, -[2040.06 --> 2041.20] when you hear that promise, -[2041.56 --> 2042.86] take advantage of it. -[2043.74 --> 2045.86] You've seen it in this past couple weeks -[2045.86 --> 2047.26] in meals and things like that, -[2047.28 --> 2048.22] but it doesn't have to stop there. -[2048.76 --> 2049.54] If you need a date night, -[2049.66 --> 2050.48] call someone from church -[2050.48 --> 2051.38] and be like, -[2051.42 --> 2052.40] remember your baptism. -[2054.88 --> 2055.90] You may have a seat. -[2056.40 --> 2058.68] You guys too may also have a seat. -[2060.04 --> 2060.94] You can stay up here. -[2061.48 --> 2062.42] Eric's already up here. -[2062.58 --> 2064.50] So Eric is an elder in our church. -[2064.50 --> 2065.68] He has a little gift -[2065.68 --> 2067.30] to mark this occasion, -[2067.42 --> 2067.90] a certificate, -[2068.18 --> 2068.76] and a little book -[2068.76 --> 2069.60] that we give out -[2069.60 --> 2070.64] to every family -[2070.64 --> 2071.84] who has baptism here. -[2075.52 --> 2076.36] May I take her? -[2081.76 --> 2082.48] I know. -[2085.96 --> 2089.38] So this is one of my favorite parts -[2089.38 --> 2091.22] of a baptism service. -[2092.58 --> 2093.90] Because what we just witnessed -[2093.90 --> 2098.34] marks the beginning of a journey of faith -[2098.34 --> 2100.42] that we pray will continue -[2100.42 --> 2102.00] for the rest of Jane's life -[2102.00 --> 2105.38] where she will find herself among you. -[2106.28 --> 2108.30] She will find herself among us -[2108.30 --> 2109.32] as a church family, -[2109.52 --> 2111.08] and that in that too, -[2111.24 --> 2113.90] she will find faith in the Lord Jesus. -[2115.04 --> 2117.46] And so this beautiful little girl -[2117.46 --> 2119.74] is among you now -[2119.74 --> 2122.00] as a sign of your responsibility -[2122.00 --> 2123.22] and commitment to her. -[2123.22 --> 2125.66] That you will lead her -[2125.66 --> 2127.02] in the way of faith. -[2127.16 --> 2129.22] That you will help her to grow -[2129.22 --> 2131.16] and to see Jesus in the way -[2131.16 --> 2132.76] that we live life together, -[2133.28 --> 2134.54] sharing our stories, -[2134.86 --> 2136.30] sharing our struggles, -[2136.80 --> 2138.24] sharing our burdens. -[2138.98 --> 2143.48] This is her story now among us. -[2145.18 --> 2146.38] She is embraced, -[2146.70 --> 2147.28] I pray, -[2147.62 --> 2148.60] by each of us -[2148.60 --> 2149.72] in this journey of faith. -[2149.72 --> 2150.84] Because one day, -[2151.56 --> 2153.82] just as her parents stood up here, -[2154.20 --> 2155.58] we long to see her -[2155.58 --> 2156.80] stand up here again -[2156.80 --> 2158.54] and to claim this faith -[2158.54 --> 2159.56] as her own. -[2160.16 --> 2161.94] We long to see her stand up here -[2161.94 --> 2162.42] and to say, -[2162.62 --> 2162.86] yes, -[2163.08 --> 2164.78] this I believe, -[2164.92 --> 2166.86] that Jesus Christ is Lord -[2166.86 --> 2168.24] and that God has raised him -[2168.24 --> 2168.86] from the dead. -[2170.00 --> 2171.16] And when that day comes, -[2171.26 --> 2172.50] we will see the fulfillment -[2172.50 --> 2175.82] of God's promise spoken today. -[2175.98 --> 2176.20] Amen? -[2176.20 --> 2176.36] Amen. -[2177.36 --> 2177.64] Amen. -[2178.98 --> 2179.84] Here you guys go. -[2198.36 --> 2199.92] As you guys make your way -[2199.92 --> 2200.50] to your seats, -[2200.58 --> 2201.78] I'm just going to offer a prayer -[2201.78 --> 2203.80] for Jane and for us together. -[2203.98 --> 2204.74] Would you join your heart -[2204.74 --> 2205.36] with me in prayer? -[2210.00 --> 2210.48] Lord, -[2210.68 --> 2211.82] our God, -[2212.46 --> 2214.76] you are good -[2214.76 --> 2215.96] and today we see -[2215.96 --> 2216.54] your goodness -[2216.54 --> 2218.32] in such a clear -[2218.32 --> 2219.90] and compelling way. -[2220.58 --> 2221.48] Today we see -[2221.48 --> 2222.90] the promises of faith -[2222.90 --> 2223.76] that are held out -[2223.76 --> 2224.48] before us -[2224.48 --> 2226.00] and we see our chance -[2226.00 --> 2226.84] to respond -[2226.84 --> 2228.50] and we are invited -[2228.50 --> 2229.78] by your grace -[2229.78 --> 2233.06] to experience -[2233.06 --> 2234.06] your nearness -[2234.06 --> 2235.60] in these moments. -[2236.22 --> 2237.14] We thank you, -[2237.34 --> 2237.38] God, -[2237.46 --> 2239.56] for the sacrament -[2239.56 --> 2240.20] of baptism -[2240.20 --> 2241.08] for the sign -[2241.08 --> 2241.72] and seal -[2241.72 --> 2242.70] that is now placed -[2242.70 --> 2243.34] on Jane -[2243.34 --> 2245.24] as a covenant child. -[2246.38 --> 2247.20] We pray, -[2247.38 --> 2247.72] Lord God, -[2247.78 --> 2248.72] that you would cause -[2248.72 --> 2249.76] faith in her -[2249.76 --> 2251.76] to take deep root, -[2252.42 --> 2253.40] cause faith in her -[2253.40 --> 2254.00] to grow -[2254.00 --> 2255.10] that she might bear -[2255.10 --> 2256.08] much fruit -[2256.08 --> 2257.02] for the kingdom. -[2257.02 --> 2258.92] And we pray, -[2259.08 --> 2259.26] God, -[2259.32 --> 2260.32] from this day -[2260.32 --> 2261.06] forward, -[2261.18 --> 2262.04] all the days -[2262.04 --> 2263.10] of her life, -[2263.18 --> 2264.08] she would know -[2264.08 --> 2264.78] that you -[2264.78 --> 2266.40] have blessed her -[2266.40 --> 2267.26] and that you -[2267.26 --> 2268.16] keep her. -[2269.04 --> 2269.80] That you, -[2269.92 --> 2270.26] Lord God, -[2270.30 --> 2271.18] would make your face -[2271.18 --> 2272.48] to shine visibly -[2272.48 --> 2273.64] upon her -[2273.64 --> 2274.40] and that you -[2274.40 --> 2275.44] would be gracious -[2275.44 --> 2276.58] to her. -[2278.20 --> 2279.60] May she always -[2279.60 --> 2280.48] and forever -[2280.48 --> 2281.54] turn to you -[2281.54 --> 2283.92] and see your face -[2283.92 --> 2285.22] and may she know -[2285.22 --> 2286.06] the peace -[2286.06 --> 2287.88] that you give. -[2289.26 --> 2290.52] In this way, -[2290.78 --> 2291.02] Lord, -[2291.12 --> 2292.12] you put your name -[2292.12 --> 2292.68] on her -[2292.68 --> 2293.74] and you make her -[2293.74 --> 2294.60] your own. -[2294.70 --> 2296.20] May she cling -[2296.20 --> 2297.36] to that promise. -[2297.90 --> 2298.88] In Jesus Christ, -[2299.04 --> 2299.46] we pray. -[2300.34 --> 2300.68] Amen. -[2301.68 --> 2302.04] Amen. -[2302.04 --> 2304.72] I'm going to -[2304.72 --> 2305.26] invite the worship -[2305.26 --> 2305.96] team back up -[2305.96 --> 2306.38] and they're going -[2306.38 --> 2306.98] to lead us -[2306.98 --> 2307.68] in a song -[2307.68 --> 2308.62] of response -[2308.62 --> 2309.90] and continue -[2309.90 --> 2310.32] our worship -[2310.32 --> 2310.60] together. -[2310.60 --> 2310.70] Amen. -[2332.04 --> 2360.32] I love you, Lord. -[2360.32 --> 2362.32] Amen. -[2362.32 --> 2364.50] Oh, your mercy -[2364.50 --> 2366.62] never gives me -[2366.62 --> 2370.54] all my days. -[2370.78 --> 2372.14] I've been held -[2372.14 --> 2374.56] in your hands. -[2375.70 --> 2377.84] Only that I may -[2377.84 --> 2378.76] know -[2378.76 --> 2382.32] until I lay my hands. -[2383.44 --> 2385.32] I will sing -[2385.32 --> 2387.12] of the goodness -[2387.12 --> 2388.86] of God. -[2388.86 --> 2394.82] all my life -[2394.82 --> 2397.42] you have been faithful. -[2397.42 --> 2402.46] All my life -[2402.46 --> 2404.46] you have been so, -[2404.54 --> 2406.48] so good. -[2408.42 --> 2410.12] Every breath -[2410.12 --> 2412.54] that I have made -[2412.54 --> 2415.92] I will sing -[2415.92 --> 2417.62] of the goodness -[2417.62 --> 2420.24] of God. -[2421.10 --> 2424.48] I love your voice. -[2426.14 --> 2427.94] You have made me -[2427.94 --> 2429.64] through the fire -[2429.64 --> 2433.22] in the darkest night. -[2434.10 --> 2435.24] You are close -[2435.24 --> 2437.06] like no other. -[2437.06 --> 2439.02] I know you -[2439.02 --> 2439.66] I know you -[2439.66 --> 2441.32] as a father -[2441.32 --> 2443.64] I know you -[2443.64 --> 2445.62] as a friend -[2445.62 --> 2447.66] I have made -[2447.66 --> 2450.66] in the goodness -[2450.66 --> 2452.66] of God. -[2452.66 --> 2456.34] God's grace. -[2456.34 --> 2458.02] All my life -[2458.02 --> 2460.22] you have been faithful. -[2460.22 --> 2461.22] All my life -[2461.22 --> 2462.22] you have been faithful. -[2462.22 --> 2465.62] All my life -[2465.62 --> 2467.64] you have been so, -[2467.72 --> 2469.22] so alone. -[2469.22 --> 2473.22] With every breath -[2473.22 --> 2475.46] that I am made -[2475.46 --> 2476.38] Lord, -[2476.38 --> 2479.02] I will sing -[2479.02 --> 2480.78] of the goodness -[2480.78 --> 2483.26] of God. -[2483.26 --> 2485.26] God's grace. -[2485.26 --> 2486.26] God's grace. -[2486.26 --> 2487.62] Your goodness -[2487.62 --> 2489.22] is one and out -[2489.22 --> 2489.58] for me. -[2489.58 --> 2491.38] It's one and out -[2491.38 --> 2492.22] for me. -[2493.64 --> 2495.22] Your goodness -[2495.22 --> 2496.84] is one and out -[2496.84 --> 2497.22] for me. -[2497.22 --> 2498.96] It's one and out -[2498.96 --> 2500.36] for me. -[2500.56 --> 2501.54] If my life -[2501.54 --> 2502.52] lay down, -[2502.64 --> 2503.22] it's a brand -[2503.22 --> 2504.54] of God. -[2505.00 --> 2505.96] Give you -[2505.96 --> 2507.08] everything. -[2507.08 --> 2519.76] My sins -[2519.76 --> 2533.30] will -[2533.30 --> 2534.58] be -[2534.58 --> 2538.58] We give you everything I need -[2538.58 --> 2541.84] Your goodness is coming out -[2541.84 --> 2544.58] And joy and happiness -[2544.58 --> 2555.12] All my life you have been faithful -[2555.12 --> 2564.56] All my life you have been so, so good -[2564.56 --> 2570.30] In every breath that I am able -[2570.30 --> 2577.64] I will sing of the goodness of God -[2577.64 --> 2585.60] I will sing of the goodness of God -[2594.56 --> 2611.30] Good morning, my name is Yap -[2611.30 --> 2613.30] I'm a deacon here at Langley-Emmanuel -[2613.30 --> 2617.16] This morning's offering will be for Advocate -[2617.16 --> 2621.88] Advocate provides safe, confidential, and compassionate care -[2621.88 --> 2625.64] That is dedicated to serving and supporting women struggling -[2625.64 --> 2629.46] With an unexpected pregnancy or a pregnancy loss -[2629.46 --> 2633.12] From Psalm 139, verse 13 -[2633.12 --> 2635.34] For you created my inmost being -[2635.34 --> 2637.96] You knit me together in my mother's womb -[2637.96 --> 2639.82] Thank you -[2639.82 --> 2639.90] Thank you -[2639.90 --> 2641.90] Thank you -[2641.90 --> 2643.90] Thank you -[2643.90 --> 2645.90] Thank you -[2645.90 --> 2647.90] Thank you -[2647.90 --> 2649.90] Thank you -[2649.90 --> 2650.90] Thank you -[2650.90 --> 2651.90] Thank you -[2651.90 --> 2653.90] Thank you -[2653.90 --> 2655.90] Thank you -[2655.90 --> 2657.90] Thank you -[2657.90 --> 2659.90] Thank you -[2659.90 --> 2664.64] Thank you -[2664.64 --> 2667.68] Thank you -[2672.64 --> 2678.16] Jesus have my heart that will be my soul -[2678.16 --> 2693.92] Jesus, have my hopes, my dreams, my hope, the joy I ate in the world, the joy I cast for the night, Jesus, have you all. -[2693.92 --> 2716.92] To you I bring my praise, my lips, my song, a living sacrifice as one reborn, your life is now my hope, your will is what I want, Jesus, have you all. -[2716.92 --> 2730.92] Jesus, have it all, Jesus, have it all, give me all the glory, praise the Lord and all. -[2730.92 --> 2746.92] Jesus, have it all, Jesus, have it all, the blessing and the wonder, the majesty and the eye, Jesus, have it all. -[2746.92 --> 2768.92] Jesus, have your church, your love, your pride, joy for which you breathe, the hope of life, radiant and white, washed and beautiful, Jesus, have it all. -[2768.92 --> 2798.90] Jesus, have it all, the blessing and the glory, Jesus, have it all. -[2798.90 --> 2828.88] Jesus, have it all, the blessing and the glory, Jesus, have it all, the blessing and the glory, Jesus, have it all. -[2828.88 --> 2858.86] Jesus, have it all. -[2858.86 --> 2862.86] Jesus, how did I? -[2888.86 --> 2918.84] Jesus, how did I? -[2918.86 --> 2948.84] Jesus, how did I? -[2948.86 --> 2978.84] Jesus, how did I? -[2978.84 --> 2979.62] Good. -[2980.36 --> 2982.08] I have a question for you today. -[2982.94 --> 2989.54] Can you tell me one thing that you're nervous or afraid of? -[2990.54 --> 2991.46] What do you think? -[2992.36 --> 2992.58] Hayley? -[2993.32 --> 2994.00] Spiders? -[2994.98 --> 2995.18] Levi? -[2997.84 --> 2999.20] Riding your scooter? -[2999.44 --> 2999.76] Malachi? -[2999.76 --> 3003.42] You're afraid of school? -[3003.42 --> 3003.86] Emma? -[3003.86 --> 3005.92] Emma? -[3005.92 --> 3012.04] Mosquitoes? -[3012.10 --> 3013.54] That's a good one to be afraid of. -[3013.54 --> 3014.54] Amelia? -[3014.54 --> 3015.54] Amelia? -[3015.54 --> 3015.60] Amelia? -[3018.06 --> 3018.74] Pardon me? -[3019.78 --> 3020.66] Stink bugs. -[3021.06 --> 3021.18] Yeah? -[3024.52 --> 3025.26] The dark? -[3025.56 --> 3027.76] Yeah, these are all very good things to be afraid of. -[3027.76 --> 3033.82] So today in children's worship time, we are going to learn that when we put all our fears -[3033.82 --> 3041.12] into God, that he will take them away and we will not be afraid anymore. -[3041.12 --> 3043.54] So can everybody stand up? -[3047.54 --> 3048.54] You guys ready? -[3048.76 --> 3049.60] Look at the parents. -[3049.94 --> 3052.10] Turn around and look at the congregation. -[3052.82 --> 3053.82] Okay, here we go. -[3053.82 --> 3082.90] Good morning. -[3083.82 --> 3085.68] My name is Andy. -[3085.86 --> 3087.16] I'm a member in this church. -[3088.16 --> 3091.84] And I have been with my wife for, I figured out, 20 years. -[3092.30 --> 3093.14] Man, time flies. -[3095.02 --> 3100.76] So it's my privilege this morning to lead you in our weekly congregational family prayer. -[3102.34 --> 3108.38] And I thought there might be some pre-prayer announcements, but there's none. -[3108.38 --> 3112.14] So I'll just, let's go bow our heads and go to God in prayer. -[3113.82 --> 3125.24] Dear God and Heavenly Father, once again, we may come before you in communal prayer to praise you, -[3125.24 --> 3129.46] to thank you, and to lay our petitions at your throne. -[3129.46 --> 3138.88] So we want to praise you for who you are to us, as we have already done in word, deed, and song. -[3139.32 --> 3145.90] And we'll continue to do, not just in this worship service, but all day and every day during this week, -[3146.38 --> 3149.46] at work or at play, at home or away. -[3149.46 --> 3154.36] We'd like all of our activities to be acts of worship to you. -[3155.54 --> 3161.58] Even though we know that all of them and our best intentions are stained by sin and weaknesses, -[3161.58 --> 3168.46] we know that you will accept our praise and worship through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus, -[3169.12 --> 3173.34] which washes us and our worship clean and white as snow. -[3174.68 --> 3177.44] God, in your mercy, hear our prayer. -[3177.44 --> 3207.42] God, in your mercy, hear our prayer. -[3207.62 --> 3208.96] And we embrace you as Lord and Savior. -[3211.26 --> 3215.92] We also mourn with those who mourn the loss of loved ones. -[3217.34 --> 3225.32] Lately, we've seen many, older and even not so old, spouses, parents, grandparents, or other relatives pass on. -[3226.44 --> 3232.50] And while we pray for your comfort in these deaths, we are also reminded of our own mortality, -[3232.50 --> 3235.94] something we don't necessarily want to think about. -[3236.72 --> 3238.66] But we ask you to grant your spirit -[3238.66 --> 3242.32] to prepare our hearts to be ready to meet you when you call. -[3245.48 --> 3247.56] We thank you with Joanne Miles -[3247.56 --> 3251.26] that she and her family were able to celebrate her mom's 100th birthday. -[3252.56 --> 3255.36] God, quite a milestone that you've given. -[3257.44 --> 3261.14] We also continue to pray for Jerry Jansen's granddaughter Christina -[3261.14 --> 3262.74] who is still struggling with lupus -[3262.74 --> 3264.98] and was hospitalized with pneumonia -[3264.98 --> 3267.06] but was able to come home. -[3268.16 --> 3269.16] We thank you for that -[3269.16 --> 3272.72] and will you provide a speedy and total recovery, Lord. -[3274.18 --> 3276.10] We also thank you with the Wynn family -[3276.10 --> 3278.24] that Emmett could recover and come home again. -[3279.88 --> 3282.04] We also thank you that Weeb and Marga Bisser -[3282.04 --> 3285.46] could come home safely from their six-week trip to Suriname -[3285.46 --> 3287.62] and give thanks with them for the arrival -[3287.62 --> 3290.34] of a new granddaughter there named Ariana. -[3291.14 --> 3293.84] God, in your mercy, hear our prayer. -[3297.52 --> 3301.32] Father, when we look around us to this world, -[3302.36 --> 3305.14] it seems to be falling apart at the seams. -[3307.54 --> 3311.38] We see how Satan seems to be winning his war -[3311.38 --> 3314.70] of turning your truth into a blatant lie -[3314.70 --> 3316.10] and vice versa. -[3316.10 --> 3320.86] How justice is being taken over by injustice and corruption. -[3322.10 --> 3325.12] How your order in creation is called into question -[3325.12 --> 3327.22] by the woke gender theories. -[3328.18 --> 3331.56] How violence and terrorism seem to be accepted practices -[3331.56 --> 3332.70] throughout this world. -[3332.70 --> 3337.94] We are hearing the drums of war sounding louder and louder -[3337.94 --> 3341.50] and we continue to see how hatred and racism -[3341.50 --> 3343.58] are now pervasive everywhere. -[3343.58 --> 3353.80] We see and hear of volcanoes, earthquakes, and other disasters such as floods, droughts, fires, etc. -[3353.80 --> 3355.36] plague your creation. -[3356.32 --> 3359.38] And we hear it groaning under the curse. -[3359.38 --> 3363.14] And we plead with you to call a halt to it all. -[3364.08 --> 3366.76] We know you are in control and you can't stop it. -[3366.76 --> 3370.32] We think of the country of Ukraine, -[3371.10 --> 3375.40] which is engaged in a brutal defensive war for its existence against Russia. -[3376.40 --> 3378.54] And we pray that they may be successful. -[3379.90 --> 3381.28] We think of Sudan, -[3382.12 --> 3384.50] where thousands are being killed in an ethnic war -[3384.50 --> 3387.04] and so many other places in this world -[3387.04 --> 3391.54] where dictators are repressing the poor and needy populations. -[3391.54 --> 3396.12] We think of the Jewish people in general -[3396.12 --> 3397.86] and the Jewish nation in particular -[3397.86 --> 3402.30] who once again are facing vicious and violent hatred -[3402.30 --> 3405.84] not just from their neighbors but from everywhere in this world. -[3407.10 --> 3408.30] Even in our own country, -[3408.58 --> 3411.16] we hear the cries of death to the Jews. -[3413.16 --> 3414.12] Father God, -[3414.86 --> 3416.84] these are the people of your first love. -[3418.10 --> 3420.66] Please allow your Holy Spirit to work in them -[3420.66 --> 3425.64] so they may open their eyes to Isaiah 53, -[3426.04 --> 3427.90] which is part of their own Torah, -[3428.68 --> 3431.74] and see that their long-awaited Messiah has already come -[3431.74 --> 3436.30] and fulfilled his task of taking the sin of the world upon his shoulders. -[3438.08 --> 3439.02] Father God, -[3439.14 --> 3441.66] grant that the return of your Son, Jesus Christ, -[3441.74 --> 3442.52] may happen soon -[3442.52 --> 3447.22] so that this earth may be renewed and restored to its perfection -[3447.22 --> 3450.92] as you had intended it when you created it. -[3452.30 --> 3452.78] God, -[3452.88 --> 3453.44] in your mercy, -[3454.32 --> 3455.08] hear our prayer. -[3457.94 --> 3460.38] We now ask you to bless Pastor Chris -[3460.38 --> 3463.10] as he preaches your word to us this morning, -[3463.60 --> 3465.10] that it may be clear and true -[3465.10 --> 3468.92] as we will look at the letter to the Romans once again. -[3468.92 --> 3471.46] for Jesus' sake, -[3472.32 --> 3472.56] amen. -[3472.56 --> 3472.66] Amen. -[3472.66 --> 3473.66] Amen. -[3502.66 --> 3505.26] So Monday, I was sitting at home. -[3506.04 --> 3508.06] Monday is my day off usually. -[3508.50 --> 3511.78] And all of a sudden I get a text from Jesus. -[3512.46 --> 3515.34] And Jesus said, hey, we had a baby. -[3515.56 --> 3517.54] We want to do the baptism on the 21st. -[3518.82 --> 3520.68] And I said, excellent. -[3521.04 --> 3523.56] Boy, girl, what's her name? -[3524.58 --> 3525.92] Is mom feeling all right? -[3526.00 --> 3526.58] How are we doing? -[3528.84 --> 3530.46] Straight to business, that one. -[3532.66 --> 3535.46] And he did tell me her name. -[3535.54 --> 3536.46] He did remember that. -[3538.26 --> 3542.32] And we went ahead and booked our baptism for today. -[3543.10 --> 3546.84] But at the same time as we were having that conversation, -[3547.24 --> 3549.82] I was thinking, oh, man. -[3551.30 --> 3555.14] January 21st is our jump back into the book of Romans, -[3555.18 --> 3558.48] which we've been in for I don't know how long it feels like to you, -[3558.56 --> 3560.00] but I can tell you it's only been a year. -[3560.00 --> 3567.06] And it's Romans 11, 25 to 32, -[3567.94 --> 3573.54] which if you are unfamiliar with the book of Romans, -[3573.68 --> 3576.12] and in particular chapters 9, 10, and 11, -[3576.60 --> 3581.20] let me just tell you that this section of Scripture, -[3581.38 --> 3582.12] these verses, -[3582.12 --> 3587.92] are some of the most difficult and widely contested -[3587.92 --> 3591.88] and debated passages of Scripture in the entire Bible. -[3593.48 --> 3595.40] And so if you are a guest here, -[3596.20 --> 3600.00] you can blame Jesus after the service -[3600.00 --> 3601.92] for what he made you endure. -[3601.92 --> 3606.26] If you are a guest here and you want to talk, -[3606.38 --> 3608.60] I will be at the Connect booth afterwards. -[3609.14 --> 3610.26] You don't have to find Jesus. -[3610.80 --> 3611.76] Although you can, -[3612.08 --> 3613.88] but just to give him your love and encouragement -[3613.88 --> 3615.20] and the blessing of today. -[3616.56 --> 3618.76] We're going to read this passage together, -[3618.76 --> 3621.44] and I trust you will see pretty quickly -[3621.44 --> 3624.30] why it is such a challenging one. -[3624.30 --> 3627.08] As we go through it the first time, -[3627.46 --> 3629.78] it will be on the screen behind me, -[3629.90 --> 3632.26] but I do encourage you, -[3632.32 --> 3633.94] if you have a Bible either with you -[3633.94 --> 3635.84] or on a device that you brought, -[3635.92 --> 3636.88] to have that in front of you -[3636.88 --> 3639.76] because we will refer back pretty regularly -[3639.76 --> 3641.68] here this morning. -[3642.48 --> 3643.86] Let me read this together. -[3645.64 --> 3648.40] Romans 11, we're going to start at verse 25. -[3648.40 --> 3655.06] I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, -[3655.28 --> 3656.24] brothers and sisters, -[3656.60 --> 3659.18] so that you may not be conceited. -[3660.22 --> 3663.64] Israel has experienced a hardening in part -[3663.64 --> 3667.30] until the full number of Gentiles has come in, -[3667.62 --> 3669.48] and in this way, -[3669.98 --> 3672.14] all Israel will be saved. -[3673.08 --> 3674.18] As it is written, -[3674.66 --> 3676.64] the deliverer will come from Zion, -[3676.64 --> 3679.58] he will turn godlessness away from Jacob, -[3680.42 --> 3683.08] and this is my covenant with them -[3683.08 --> 3684.58] when I take away their sins. -[3685.60 --> 3687.94] As far as the gospel is concerned, -[3688.14 --> 3689.84] they are enemies for your sake, -[3689.98 --> 3692.44] but as far as election is concerned, -[3692.90 --> 3695.76] they are loved on account of the patriarchs, -[3695.76 --> 3699.18] for God's gifts and his call are irrevocable. -[3700.06 --> 3701.26] Just as you, -[3701.44 --> 3703.92] who were at one time disobedient to God, -[3703.98 --> 3705.12] have now received mercy -[3705.12 --> 3707.34] as a result of their disobedience, -[3707.54 --> 3710.68] so they too have now become disobedient -[3710.68 --> 3713.46] in order that they may too now receive mercy -[3713.46 --> 3715.48] as a result of God's mercy to you. -[3716.54 --> 3719.92] For God has bound everyone over to disobedience, -[3720.08 --> 3723.32] so that he may have mercy on them all. -[3724.18 --> 3725.52] This is the word of the Lord. -[3725.52 --> 3736.48] Now maybe as I was reading it, -[3737.28 --> 3740.38] you had a bunch of questions pop in your mind. -[3741.40 --> 3742.98] I know I do, -[3743.14 --> 3745.78] and the first time I read it this week in preparation, -[3746.34 --> 3749.70] and the hundredth time I read it this week in preparation, -[3749.86 --> 3752.12] I still was coming up with new questions. -[3752.12 --> 3756.42] One of the questions I had is the title of this sermon, -[3756.84 --> 3757.68] which is, -[3757.96 --> 3759.34] All Israel? Really? -[3760.68 --> 3762.64] All Israel will be saved? -[3763.70 --> 3765.20] That's just the first verse. -[3765.84 --> 3766.86] And the first question, -[3767.96 --> 3769.58] does that mean ethnic Israel? -[3770.10 --> 3772.18] Does that mean the country of Israel? -[3772.64 --> 3773.92] Does that mean all the people -[3773.92 --> 3777.78] who have all ever identified as Israel, -[3778.12 --> 3779.96] past, present, and future? -[3780.70 --> 3782.56] Another question that I have when I read this is, -[3782.56 --> 3785.24] what is the full number of Gentiles? -[3786.20 --> 3786.40] Right? -[3786.46 --> 3787.12] Does that mean like, -[3787.36 --> 3788.48] in my head when I read that, -[3788.72 --> 3790.92] I picture a countdown clock in heaven? -[3791.30 --> 3791.80] Right? -[3791.86 --> 3793.56] That has Gentiles over top of it, -[3793.66 --> 3795.06] and it's counting down -[3795.06 --> 3797.32] until we get to the full number, -[3797.44 --> 3799.24] and that's finally when Jesus will return? -[3800.38 --> 3801.70] No, that's probably not actually -[3801.70 --> 3802.68] what's happening in heaven. -[3802.80 --> 3803.00] Okay? -[3803.08 --> 3804.20] Don't take that. -[3805.40 --> 3806.82] But that's what I wonder. -[3806.94 --> 3808.78] Who and how and how many? -[3808.78 --> 3810.78] I read this, -[3810.84 --> 3811.14] and I wonder, -[3811.32 --> 3811.52] when? -[3812.26 --> 3813.48] When is this going to happen? -[3813.92 --> 3815.20] Is it already happening? -[3815.68 --> 3816.70] How will we see it? -[3816.76 --> 3817.46] How will we know? -[3818.08 --> 3818.90] Will we see it? -[3819.02 --> 3819.78] Will we know it? -[3821.36 --> 3821.64] Now, -[3822.62 --> 3824.38] as we -[3824.38 --> 3826.36] dig into this -[3826.36 --> 3827.56] text this morning, -[3827.80 --> 3829.46] I don't -[3829.46 --> 3830.62] imagine that we -[3830.62 --> 3831.38] will answer -[3831.38 --> 3832.14] every one -[3832.14 --> 3833.56] of your questions. -[3833.82 --> 3833.90] We, -[3834.28 --> 3834.98] to be honest, -[3835.02 --> 3835.70] just don't have time -[3835.70 --> 3836.30] for that. -[3836.30 --> 3838.20] what I do hope -[3838.20 --> 3838.64] you do, -[3838.72 --> 3838.88] though, -[3838.92 --> 3839.86] is you take -[3839.86 --> 3840.62] your questions, -[3841.28 --> 3842.02] and you take -[3842.02 --> 3842.74] some of the answers -[3842.74 --> 3843.38] that we give -[3843.38 --> 3844.16] here this morning, -[3844.16 --> 3845.32] and you continue -[3845.32 --> 3846.08] to dig deeper. -[3846.20 --> 3846.66] You continue -[3846.66 --> 3848.04] to wrestle with them, -[3848.06 --> 3848.76] that you ask -[3848.76 --> 3849.54] and explore -[3849.54 --> 3850.84] and follow -[3850.84 --> 3851.86] your curiosity -[3851.86 --> 3853.16] into the word -[3853.16 --> 3853.66] of God, -[3853.66 --> 3854.34] and that can happen -[3854.34 --> 3855.70] in your grow groups, -[3855.82 --> 3856.36] care groups, -[3856.44 --> 3856.98] that can happen -[3856.98 --> 3858.48] in your small groups, -[3858.52 --> 3859.74] or wherever that happens, -[3859.74 --> 3860.86] I pray that you -[3860.86 --> 3861.50] take this -[3861.50 --> 3862.86] as a starting point -[3862.86 --> 3864.04] to an ongoing -[3864.04 --> 3864.78] conversation -[3864.78 --> 3866.02] with discipleship. -[3867.88 --> 3868.80] The question -[3868.80 --> 3869.16] that I want -[3869.16 --> 3869.96] to begin with -[3869.96 --> 3872.40] is this. -[3873.28 --> 3874.34] When Paul -[3874.34 --> 3875.20] says, -[3875.68 --> 3876.30] all Israel -[3876.30 --> 3877.50] will be saved, -[3878.00 --> 3878.50] who -[3878.50 --> 3879.68] does he -[3879.68 --> 3880.42] mean? -[3881.78 --> 3882.30] Like, -[3882.38 --> 3883.00] all Israel -[3883.00 --> 3884.34] without distinction? -[3885.50 --> 3886.22] And then, -[3886.26 --> 3886.66] I want to ask -[3886.66 --> 3887.24] the question, -[3887.46 --> 3887.86] how -[3887.86 --> 3888.90] will this -[3888.90 --> 3889.18] happen? -[3889.18 --> 3891.16] You know, -[3892.42 --> 3893.94] as is often -[3893.94 --> 3895.10] prudent and wise -[3895.10 --> 3896.08] before we begin, -[3896.76 --> 3897.98] I just want to name -[3897.98 --> 3898.80] an assumption -[3898.80 --> 3900.40] that I'm carrying -[3900.40 --> 3901.08] into -[3901.08 --> 3902.28] this -[3902.28 --> 3903.52] explanation. -[3904.18 --> 3904.38] Now, -[3904.42 --> 3905.40] I hope for most of us -[3905.40 --> 3906.40] it's a shared assumption, -[3906.62 --> 3907.82] but I imagine -[3907.82 --> 3908.96] it's not for all of us. -[3909.30 --> 3910.16] And the assumption -[3910.16 --> 3911.10] that I'm carrying -[3911.10 --> 3912.08] into this -[3912.08 --> 3912.96] is -[3912.96 --> 3914.74] to give Paul -[3914.74 --> 3915.42] a particular -[3915.42 --> 3916.40] amount of credit, -[3916.88 --> 3917.52] or to give him -[3917.52 --> 3918.26] a certain amount -[3918.26 --> 3919.00] of trust, right? -[3919.00 --> 3920.32] What I mean is -[3920.32 --> 3921.44] I'm going to assume -[3921.44 --> 3922.12] that Paul, -[3922.30 --> 3923.56] when he is writing, -[3924.02 --> 3924.80] is not going to -[3924.80 --> 3925.86] contradict himself. -[3926.96 --> 3927.14] Right? -[3927.16 --> 3928.02] Especially in these -[3928.02 --> 3928.72] three chapters -[3928.72 --> 3929.20] that we've been -[3929.20 --> 3930.10] looking at for a while, -[3930.16 --> 3930.92] the hard ones, -[3931.00 --> 3932.00] 9, 10, and 11. -[3932.48 --> 3932.78] Right? -[3932.80 --> 3933.28] I'm assuming -[3933.28 --> 3934.04] that there's no -[3934.04 --> 3935.02] contradictions. -[3936.46 --> 3936.90] Also, -[3937.10 --> 3938.04] I don't believe -[3938.04 --> 3938.80] that Paul -[3938.80 --> 3939.32] is going to -[3939.32 --> 3940.08] contradict himself -[3940.08 --> 3941.06] in the larger scale, -[3941.14 --> 3941.42] that is, -[3941.56 --> 3942.16] in the whole -[3942.16 --> 3942.66] of the letter -[3942.66 --> 3943.36] to the Romans, -[3943.50 --> 3944.56] but also in the -[3944.56 --> 3945.26] other letters -[3945.26 --> 3945.96] that he wrote -[3945.96 --> 3946.86] in the New Testament. -[3947.64 --> 3948.12] And then, -[3948.12 --> 3948.96] not just Paul, -[3949.08 --> 3949.78] I'm going to go -[3949.78 --> 3950.32] into this -[3950.32 --> 3950.78] assuming -[3950.78 --> 3952.00] that -[3952.00 --> 3953.60] the -[3953.60 --> 3955.50] entire -[3955.50 --> 3956.50] New Testament -[3956.50 --> 3958.76] canon, -[3959.06 --> 3959.68] the writings -[3959.68 --> 3960.50] of the New Testament, -[3961.02 --> 3961.86] aren't going to -[3961.86 --> 3963.06] contradict themselves -[3963.06 --> 3963.90] either. -[3964.50 --> 3965.20] And then, -[3965.24 --> 3965.84] we'll go one -[3965.84 --> 3966.52] step further -[3966.52 --> 3967.26] and then say -[3967.26 --> 3968.56] that I don't believe -[3968.56 --> 3969.56] there are contradictions -[3969.56 --> 3970.26] in the Old -[3970.26 --> 3970.94] and New Testament -[3970.94 --> 3971.72] together. -[3972.74 --> 3973.00] Right? -[3973.06 --> 3973.92] That the -[3973.92 --> 3974.92] Word of God, -[3975.16 --> 3976.44] the God-breathed, -[3976.44 --> 3977.96] God-inspired Word -[3977.96 --> 3978.86] given to us -[3978.86 --> 3980.18] in our tradition -[3980.18 --> 3981.30] in two Testaments, -[3981.42 --> 3981.84] the Old -[3981.84 --> 3982.50] and the New, -[3983.50 --> 3984.80] the Bible -[3984.80 --> 3986.38] is -[3986.38 --> 3987.98] internally -[3987.98 --> 3989.20] consistent. -[3990.30 --> 3990.48] Now, -[3990.52 --> 3991.12] this assumption, -[3991.42 --> 3992.04] to put a name -[3992.04 --> 3992.38] on it, -[3992.40 --> 3993.30] is part of -[3993.30 --> 3994.86] our shared -[3994.86 --> 3995.42] doctrine -[3995.42 --> 3996.58] of inspiration. -[3997.16 --> 3997.30] Right? -[3997.32 --> 3997.86] How we believe -[3997.86 --> 3999.32] God inspired -[3999.32 --> 3999.92] the Bible -[3999.92 --> 4000.82] to be written. -[4000.90 --> 4001.72] And I don't believe, -[4001.84 --> 4002.02] then, -[4002.06 --> 4002.46] that there are -[4002.46 --> 4003.16] contradictions -[4003.16 --> 4004.12] within it. -[4004.62 --> 4004.84] Now, -[4004.86 --> 4005.64] let me be really clear, -[4005.64 --> 4005.86] right? -[4005.90 --> 4006.82] Because even though -[4006.82 --> 4007.16] there are no -[4007.16 --> 4007.70] contradictions, -[4007.84 --> 4008.66] there are difficult -[4008.66 --> 4009.16] passages. -[4010.34 --> 4010.64] And that's -[4010.64 --> 4011.62] absolutely the case. -[4012.16 --> 4012.82] And there are -[4012.82 --> 4013.64] parts of Scripture -[4013.64 --> 4014.26] that are really -[4014.26 --> 4015.34] hard to reconcile -[4015.34 --> 4016.80] one to the other. -[4017.66 --> 4018.58] And there are -[4018.58 --> 4019.42] parts of Scripture -[4019.42 --> 4020.46] and doctrines -[4020.46 --> 4021.10] that it teaches -[4021.10 --> 4022.02] that are ultimately, -[4022.32 --> 4022.86] in their fullness, -[4023.32 --> 4024.20] beyond human -[4024.20 --> 4024.80] comprehension. -[4026.68 --> 4027.16] But, -[4027.54 --> 4028.50] because Scripture -[4028.50 --> 4029.48] is God-breathed, -[4029.56 --> 4030.16] because it is -[4030.16 --> 4031.58] inspired by God, -[4031.90 --> 4032.82] it follows, -[4033.18 --> 4033.92] in my mind, -[4034.06 --> 4034.86] that the revelation -[4034.86 --> 4035.48] of God, -[4035.56 --> 4036.82] His Word to us, -[4037.64 --> 4039.20] is infallible. -[4039.90 --> 4040.82] And that's a fancy -[4040.82 --> 4041.78] theological word -[4041.78 --> 4042.22] that means -[4042.22 --> 4043.98] without falsification -[4043.98 --> 4044.76] or error -[4044.76 --> 4045.50] or deceit. -[4046.66 --> 4047.14] Now, -[4047.22 --> 4048.02] all of that -[4048.02 --> 4048.64] together, -[4049.20 --> 4049.50] right, -[4049.58 --> 4050.18] means that -[4050.18 --> 4050.94] for us to -[4050.94 --> 4051.80] understand -[4051.80 --> 4053.02] a difficult -[4053.02 --> 4053.68] passage -[4053.68 --> 4055.12] like this one, -[4055.20 --> 4055.66] a difficult -[4055.66 --> 4056.36] verse like -[4056.36 --> 4057.42] these ones, -[4057.60 --> 4058.88] we need to -[4058.88 --> 4059.68] look to -[4059.68 --> 4060.60] other verses -[4060.60 --> 4061.96] to make sense -[4061.96 --> 4062.12] of it. -[4062.16 --> 4062.80] We need to let -[4062.80 --> 4064.10] Scripture interpret -[4064.10 --> 4064.78] Scripture. -[4065.74 --> 4067.02] We must zoom out -[4067.02 --> 4067.84] to see the whole -[4067.84 --> 4068.80] teaching in order -[4068.80 --> 4069.62] to understand -[4069.62 --> 4070.56] a particular -[4070.56 --> 4071.70] teaching. -[4073.60 --> 4074.58] And so, -[4074.82 --> 4077.30] here's what I think, -[4077.40 --> 4077.66] then, -[4077.74 --> 4079.30] is the big idea -[4079.30 --> 4080.06] or the thesis -[4080.06 --> 4081.06] of Paul's point -[4081.06 --> 4081.82] in this text, -[4082.40 --> 4083.14] the particular -[4083.14 --> 4083.98] teaching that he's -[4083.98 --> 4084.80] making that I think -[4084.80 --> 4085.78] we can zoom out -[4085.78 --> 4086.80] to undergird -[4086.80 --> 4087.50] together. -[4088.80 --> 4089.44] And that is -[4089.44 --> 4090.78] that at some point, -[4090.78 --> 4091.74] all Israel -[4091.74 --> 4092.86] will be saved -[4092.86 --> 4093.50] by God -[4093.50 --> 4094.96] and their salvation -[4094.96 --> 4096.02] will be -[4096.02 --> 4097.06] by the means -[4097.06 --> 4098.14] common to us -[4098.14 --> 4098.56] all, -[4099.52 --> 4099.96] namely, -[4100.16 --> 4101.12] believing in Jesus -[4101.12 --> 4102.32] as a result -[4102.32 --> 4103.30] of God's grace. -[4104.58 --> 4105.16] So, -[4105.24 --> 4105.58] if you are -[4105.58 --> 4106.74] a note-taker, -[4107.10 --> 4108.40] that's your heading. -[4108.80 --> 4109.68] We'll explain -[4109.68 --> 4110.08] through -[4110.08 --> 4111.18] in the rest. -[4112.48 --> 4112.74] And so, -[4112.82 --> 4112.98] then, -[4113.04 --> 4113.70] to see that, -[4113.78 --> 4114.52] let's first -[4114.52 --> 4115.74] establish together -[4115.74 --> 4116.90] who it is -[4116.90 --> 4117.58] that Paul is -[4117.58 --> 4118.62] referring to -[4118.62 --> 4120.22] in verse 26 -[4120.22 --> 4121.46] when he says, -[4121.84 --> 4122.88] all Israel. -[4123.52 --> 4124.98] Because it can be -[4124.98 --> 4125.58] confusing. -[4126.60 --> 4127.18] And in fact, -[4127.30 --> 4128.08] because it's, -[4128.30 --> 4129.06] part of its confusion -[4129.06 --> 4129.66] is because -[4129.66 --> 4131.86] there's a compounding -[4131.86 --> 4132.90] of distinctions -[4132.90 --> 4134.66] that are being made -[4134.66 --> 4135.76] already in this -[4135.76 --> 4136.56] section. -[4137.30 --> 4138.22] I'm going to walk you -[4138.22 --> 4138.68] through this -[4138.68 --> 4139.44] really quickly. -[4139.62 --> 4140.52] The verses will be -[4140.52 --> 4141.12] on the screen -[4141.12 --> 4142.16] behind me -[4142.16 --> 4143.38] so you can see them -[4143.38 --> 4143.94] and don't have to -[4143.94 --> 4145.02] flip through. -[4146.08 --> 4148.04] But in chapter 9, -[4148.04 --> 4149.16] verse 6, -[4150.04 --> 4151.02] Paul says, -[4151.12 --> 4152.00] rather explicitly, -[4152.36 --> 4153.16] not all who are -[4153.16 --> 4154.60] descended from Israel -[4154.60 --> 4155.86] are Israel. -[4156.68 --> 4157.18] And then again -[4157.18 --> 4157.78] in verse 8, -[4157.86 --> 4158.44] he continues, -[4158.90 --> 4159.52] it is children -[4159.52 --> 4160.56] of the promise -[4160.56 --> 4161.58] who are -[4161.58 --> 4163.42] Abraham's descendants. -[4164.76 --> 4165.10] So, -[4165.14 --> 4165.56] when we looked -[4165.56 --> 4166.36] at these verses, -[4166.66 --> 4167.36] we noted that -[4167.36 --> 4168.46] Paul is here -[4168.46 --> 4169.42] making a distinction -[4169.42 --> 4171.36] between ethnic Israel -[4171.36 --> 4174.10] and spiritual Israel. -[4175.56 --> 4175.88] Right? -[4175.94 --> 4176.84] In terms of, -[4176.96 --> 4177.04] then, -[4177.04 --> 4178.40] belief and believing -[4178.40 --> 4179.34] and of receiving -[4179.34 --> 4180.64] salvation by grace -[4180.64 --> 4181.78] and by the mercy -[4181.78 --> 4182.38] of God, -[4182.52 --> 4183.20] Paul continues -[4183.20 --> 4184.78] these distinctions -[4184.78 --> 4185.34] and he says -[4185.34 --> 4186.50] in chapter 10, -[4186.62 --> 4187.36] verse 12, -[4188.04 --> 4188.96] for again, -[4189.14 --> 4190.50] there is no difference -[4190.50 --> 4191.44] between Jew -[4191.44 --> 4192.64] and Gentile. -[4193.10 --> 4193.56] But again, -[4193.68 --> 4193.84] right, -[4193.90 --> 4195.02] Paul is confirming -[4195.02 --> 4197.42] the spiritual reality -[4197.42 --> 4199.88] that makes true Israel -[4199.88 --> 4200.58] inclusive -[4200.58 --> 4202.40] of all who believe, -[4202.50 --> 4203.06] all who are -[4203.06 --> 4204.74] children of Abraham. -[4204.74 --> 4206.22] and then we keep -[4206.22 --> 4206.58] going. -[4207.24 --> 4207.98] In verse 16 -[4207.98 --> 4208.92] of chapter 10, -[4209.04 --> 4209.62] it says, -[4210.06 --> 4211.48] but not all Israel -[4211.48 --> 4212.94] accepted the good news. -[4213.76 --> 4213.96] Now, -[4214.00 --> 4214.22] you see, -[4214.26 --> 4214.96] he's left behind -[4214.96 --> 4215.56] the distinction -[4215.56 --> 4218.20] of the spiritual Israel -[4218.20 --> 4219.78] and has returned -[4219.78 --> 4221.56] to ethnic Israel. -[4221.56 --> 4221.80] Right? -[4221.86 --> 4222.40] Very clearly, -[4222.40 --> 4223.38] he's returned here -[4223.38 --> 4224.58] because he's making -[4224.58 --> 4225.26] the distinction -[4225.26 --> 4226.92] within the people -[4226.92 --> 4227.76] of Israel. -[4227.76 --> 4229.14] And then he continues -[4229.14 --> 4230.46] in chapter 11, -[4230.60 --> 4231.44] verse 5, -[4231.60 --> 4233.14] where we read, -[4233.34 --> 4234.58] at the present time, -[4234.86 --> 4235.86] there is a remnant -[4235.86 --> 4237.76] chosen by grace. -[4238.34 --> 4238.70] And so here, -[4238.76 --> 4239.70] he's naming that distinction -[4239.70 --> 4240.20] again, -[4240.54 --> 4241.24] but saying there are -[4241.24 --> 4242.34] those who are Israel -[4242.34 --> 4243.90] who are ethnic Israel -[4243.90 --> 4244.98] and those who are Israel -[4244.98 --> 4246.26] who are spiritual Israel -[4246.26 --> 4247.46] and the two aren't -[4247.46 --> 4248.62] one to one the same. -[4249.40 --> 4250.56] He continues in verse 7, -[4250.66 --> 4251.74] what the people of Israel -[4251.74 --> 4253.88] sought to so earnestly -[4253.88 --> 4255.26] they did not obtain. -[4255.26 --> 4257.22] The elect among them did, -[4257.56 --> 4258.54] but the others were hardened. -[4260.10 --> 4261.44] So Israel here -[4261.44 --> 4263.32] means that the elect -[4263.32 --> 4264.90] and the hardened, -[4265.06 --> 4266.06] the remnant who believe -[4266.06 --> 4267.98] and those who don't. -[4269.60 --> 4269.96] And so, -[4270.06 --> 4271.38] pulling all this together -[4271.38 --> 4271.94] slowly, -[4273.24 --> 4275.04] what we're beginning to see -[4275.04 --> 4275.86] is that maybe -[4275.86 --> 4277.00] in our text, -[4277.22 --> 4278.16] all Israel -[4278.16 --> 4280.26] isn't only -[4280.80 --> 4282.70] the true Israel -[4282.70 --> 4284.16] or the spiritual Israel -[4284.16 --> 4285.66] of Abraham's descendants -[4285.66 --> 4286.34] that were mentioned -[4286.34 --> 4287.50] in earlier verses. -[4288.44 --> 4288.72] Now, -[4288.76 --> 4289.54] I want to make that point -[4289.54 --> 4291.34] as clearly as I can, -[4292.06 --> 4292.22] right, -[4292.28 --> 4293.72] that all Israel, -[4293.88 --> 4294.96] I think here, -[4295.18 --> 4296.60] means ethnic Israel, -[4296.76 --> 4298.04] not the spiritual, -[4298.56 --> 4299.36] true Israel -[4299.36 --> 4300.08] that's inclusive -[4300.08 --> 4301.32] of Gentiles -[4301.32 --> 4302.16] and Jews, -[4303.12 --> 4304.00] because there are -[4304.00 --> 4305.18] some really good teachers -[4305.18 --> 4305.76] of the Bible -[4305.76 --> 4307.16] who disagree -[4307.70 --> 4308.84] with the way -[4308.84 --> 4309.60] I just framed that. -[4310.56 --> 4310.76] Right, -[4310.80 --> 4311.62] that when Paul says -[4311.62 --> 4312.42] all Israel, -[4312.42 --> 4313.88] he means only -[4313.88 --> 4314.68] the remnant, -[4314.78 --> 4315.42] only the true -[4315.42 --> 4316.42] spiritual descendants. -[4316.62 --> 4317.42] He means the fullness -[4317.42 --> 4319.06] of believing Gentiles. -[4319.56 --> 4320.16] In fact, -[4320.44 --> 4321.58] this was the position -[4321.58 --> 4322.50] of John Calvin. -[4323.64 --> 4323.84] Now, -[4323.90 --> 4325.00] in the Christian Reformed Church, -[4325.14 --> 4325.52] generally, -[4325.66 --> 4326.64] it's a good rule of thumb -[4326.64 --> 4328.10] to agree with John Calvin, -[4328.96 --> 4330.16] but I don't, -[4330.92 --> 4332.00] at least here. -[4332.88 --> 4334.40] In almost every other place, -[4334.50 --> 4334.74] yes, -[4335.12 --> 4335.78] but here, -[4335.86 --> 4337.60] I think he is wrong, -[4337.64 --> 4338.28] and I'll get into -[4338.28 --> 4338.68] some of that. -[4338.68 --> 4340.92] his argument -[4340.92 --> 4341.84] is that it's not -[4341.84 --> 4342.92] an ethnic marker, -[4343.14 --> 4344.62] but it's a spiritual marker -[4344.62 --> 4345.66] that refers to, -[4345.74 --> 4346.78] this is from his commentary -[4346.78 --> 4347.76] on Romans, -[4348.04 --> 4348.94] the whole tree, -[4349.20 --> 4349.36] right? -[4349.50 --> 4350.50] As we read there, -[4350.62 --> 4351.22] the example, -[4351.36 --> 4351.70] the metaphor -[4351.70 --> 4353.08] that Paul uses -[4353.08 --> 4353.66] of a tree -[4353.66 --> 4354.46] that includes -[4354.46 --> 4355.50] the faithful branches -[4355.50 --> 4357.12] and the wild branches -[4357.12 --> 4358.04] that have been grafted -[4358.04 --> 4358.50] back in. -[4360.70 --> 4361.18] But, -[4361.18 --> 4363.36] I don't think -[4363.36 --> 4363.98] that's how Paul -[4363.98 --> 4364.74] uses the word. -[4366.12 --> 4366.24] Right? -[4366.26 --> 4366.86] He continues -[4366.86 --> 4368.62] in verse 11, -[4368.84 --> 4369.18] again, -[4369.54 --> 4371.04] in chapter 11, -[4371.12 --> 4371.60] verse 11, -[4371.70 --> 4372.26] we didn't read it, -[4372.32 --> 4372.80] but that's why -[4372.80 --> 4373.46] you have your Bibles. -[4374.28 --> 4374.72] He says, -[4374.80 --> 4375.74] salvation has come -[4375.74 --> 4376.62] to the Gentiles -[4376.62 --> 4377.76] to make Israel -[4377.76 --> 4378.48] envious. -[4379.48 --> 4380.14] I take pride -[4380.14 --> 4380.78] in my ministry -[4380.78 --> 4381.24] in the hope -[4381.24 --> 4381.98] that I may somehow -[4381.98 --> 4383.18] arouse my own people -[4383.18 --> 4383.60] to envy -[4383.60 --> 4384.58] and save some -[4384.58 --> 4385.42] of them. -[4386.48 --> 4386.88] Again, -[4387.12 --> 4387.32] right, -[4387.38 --> 4387.76] you can see -[4387.76 --> 4388.20] the line -[4388.20 --> 4388.86] that is being drawn. -[4388.96 --> 4389.64] There's a contrast -[4389.64 --> 4390.90] between Gentiles, -[4390.90 --> 4391.74] the word Gentiles, -[4391.84 --> 4393.82] which is an ethnic marker -[4393.82 --> 4394.72] for people -[4394.72 --> 4395.94] who are not Jewish, -[4396.34 --> 4396.48] right, -[4396.52 --> 4397.00] all people -[4397.00 --> 4397.66] who are not Jewish, -[4397.78 --> 4398.72] and that contrast -[4398.72 --> 4399.96] of an ethnic identity -[4399.96 --> 4401.74] is marked against Israel. -[4402.38 --> 4402.58] So, -[4402.62 --> 4403.20] I'm suggesting -[4403.20 --> 4405.04] that it's an ethnic marker. -[4406.54 --> 4407.06] And so, -[4407.26 --> 4408.62] in verse 23, -[4409.10 --> 4411.02] Paul makes this promise. -[4412.12 --> 4412.58] He writes, -[4413.20 --> 4414.74] if they do not persist -[4414.74 --> 4415.92] in unbelief, -[4416.24 --> 4416.50] they, -[4416.62 --> 4417.32] that is Israel, -[4417.60 --> 4419.32] will be grafted in. -[4419.32 --> 4421.00] Now, -[4421.24 --> 4422.38] remember that line, -[4422.50 --> 4423.68] if they do not persist -[4423.68 --> 4424.36] in unbelief. -[4424.48 --> 4424.94] Park that -[4424.94 --> 4425.84] in the corner -[4425.84 --> 4426.32] of your brain -[4426.32 --> 4426.76] because we're going -[4426.76 --> 4429.04] to pick that back up -[4429.04 --> 4429.78] because it will become -[4429.78 --> 4431.40] important for the second half. -[4432.04 --> 4432.84] But notice, -[4433.02 --> 4434.08] the point that Paul -[4434.08 --> 4434.66] is making -[4434.66 --> 4435.50] is that -[4435.50 --> 4437.70] the ethnic Israel -[4437.70 --> 4438.90] who believes -[4438.90 --> 4440.20] will be grafted back in. -[4441.46 --> 4441.76] And then, -[4441.84 --> 4442.52] in verse 26, -[4442.84 --> 4443.34] he says, -[4443.48 --> 4444.40] in this way, -[4444.40 --> 4445.26] all Israel -[4445.26 --> 4446.52] will be saved. -[4448.30 --> 4449.56] This is the culmination -[4449.56 --> 4450.56] of the image, -[4450.66 --> 4451.12] the metaphor -[4451.12 --> 4452.50] of the olive tree, -[4452.80 --> 4454.20] which unbelieving Israel -[4454.20 --> 4455.70] has been cut off from -[4455.70 --> 4456.60] for a period -[4456.60 --> 4458.00] and believing Gentiles -[4458.00 --> 4458.94] have been grafted -[4458.94 --> 4459.86] back into. -[4460.08 --> 4460.34] And then, -[4460.40 --> 4460.94] the promise -[4460.94 --> 4461.96] that Paul speaks -[4461.96 --> 4463.06] is that Israel -[4463.06 --> 4463.94] can be grafted -[4463.94 --> 4465.18] back into the tree -[4465.18 --> 4466.58] as a natural branch. -[4466.62 --> 4466.94] And he says, -[4467.04 --> 4467.30] in fact, -[4467.44 --> 4468.62] it's even easier -[4468.62 --> 4469.86] for them to be grafted -[4469.86 --> 4470.36] back in -[4470.36 --> 4471.64] as a natural branch. -[4472.64 --> 4472.82] So, -[4472.88 --> 4473.80] if you have your own Bible -[4473.80 --> 4474.76] and you're reading along, -[4475.50 --> 4476.68] you might want to circle -[4476.68 --> 4478.38] in this way -[4478.38 --> 4479.32] in verse 26 -[4479.32 --> 4480.82] and then circle, -[4481.10 --> 4481.98] they will be grafted -[4481.98 --> 4482.50] back in -[4482.50 --> 4483.24] in verse 29 -[4483.24 --> 4484.32] and draw a line -[4484.32 --> 4485.50] back to that -[4485.50 --> 4486.76] because that's how -[4486.76 --> 4489.18] they will be grafted -[4489.18 --> 4489.66] or that's the -[4489.66 --> 4490.38] in this way. -[4490.50 --> 4491.14] In what way? -[4491.60 --> 4492.82] By being grafted back in. -[4493.76 --> 4493.96] Now, -[4494.00 --> 4494.42] notice, -[4494.94 --> 4496.02] in that image, -[4496.14 --> 4496.34] right, -[4496.42 --> 4496.88] importantly, -[4497.44 --> 4499.22] there's only one tree. -[4500.70 --> 4501.62] All Israel, -[4501.64 --> 4503.00] is grafted -[4503.00 --> 4504.22] back in. -[4506.74 --> 4507.28] And so, -[4507.62 --> 4509.44] to recap so far, -[4509.54 --> 4510.84] my point has been -[4510.84 --> 4512.42] that when Paul says -[4512.42 --> 4513.36] all Israel -[4513.36 --> 4514.32] in verse 26, -[4514.72 --> 4516.14] he does mean -[4516.14 --> 4518.22] ethnic Israel. -[4519.38 --> 4520.16] The contrast -[4520.16 --> 4521.48] has been between -[4521.48 --> 4522.68] Gentiles who believe -[4522.68 --> 4523.56] and Israel -[4523.56 --> 4524.62] who doesn't -[4524.62 --> 4525.16] or at least -[4525.16 --> 4526.50] who doesn't yet. -[4527.82 --> 4528.86] It wouldn't be, -[4529.10 --> 4529.72] Paul describes it -[4529.72 --> 4530.66] as a mystery. -[4531.40 --> 4532.02] I do not want you -[4532.02 --> 4532.46] to be ignorant -[4532.46 --> 4533.22] of this mystery. -[4533.56 --> 4534.42] It wouldn't be -[4534.42 --> 4535.14] a mystery -[4535.14 --> 4536.88] if Paul was only -[4536.88 --> 4537.68] talking about -[4537.68 --> 4538.94] elected Gentiles -[4538.94 --> 4539.78] and the remnant -[4539.78 --> 4540.34] of Jews. -[4542.08 --> 4542.56] Right? -[4542.62 --> 4543.24] That would be, -[4543.84 --> 4545.12] that would make sense -[4545.12 --> 4545.70] and wouldn't be -[4545.70 --> 4546.14] a mystery. -[4546.14 --> 4547.16] But precisely -[4547.16 --> 4548.54] because this is -[4548.54 --> 4549.66] hard to wrap -[4549.66 --> 4550.46] our heads around, -[4551.04 --> 4551.92] that's what makes -[4551.92 --> 4552.48] it a mystery. -[4553.14 --> 4553.82] And I think -[4553.82 --> 4554.64] precisely because -[4554.64 --> 4555.16] it's the more -[4555.16 --> 4556.66] difficult understanding, -[4556.80 --> 4557.52] that's what makes it -[4557.52 --> 4558.38] more likely -[4558.38 --> 4559.12] to be true. -[4560.32 --> 4560.96] Now the next -[4560.96 --> 4561.64] question is, -[4561.84 --> 4562.52] then, -[4563.30 --> 4564.18] how does Paul -[4564.18 --> 4565.14] use the word -[4565.14 --> 4565.84] all? -[4566.62 --> 4567.24] So if we're talking -[4567.24 --> 4568.08] about ethnic Israel, -[4568.20 --> 4570.00] what is all Israel? -[4570.80 --> 4571.06] Right? -[4571.10 --> 4571.62] When we read -[4571.62 --> 4572.34] all Israel, -[4572.56 --> 4573.42] what does that -[4573.42 --> 4574.08] mean? -[4574.08 --> 4574.90] Now, -[4575.90 --> 4580.24] I don't think -[4580.24 --> 4582.92] that all Israel -[4582.92 --> 4585.14] means every single -[4585.14 --> 4585.96] Israelite -[4585.96 --> 4587.08] without exception. -[4588.70 --> 4589.18] Instead, -[4590.06 --> 4591.68] what Paul means -[4591.68 --> 4593.22] is Israel -[4593.22 --> 4594.24] as a whole. -[4594.92 --> 4595.12] Right? -[4595.14 --> 4595.96] He's talking about -[4595.96 --> 4596.88] ethnic Israel -[4596.88 --> 4598.40] in a general sense. -[4599.52 --> 4599.98] Now let me make -[4599.98 --> 4600.42] this point -[4600.42 --> 4601.58] by looking somewhere else -[4601.58 --> 4602.42] because Israel -[4602.42 --> 4603.42] and even the phrase -[4603.42 --> 4604.20] all Israel -[4604.20 --> 4605.72] is used this way -[4605.72 --> 4606.46] in lots of other -[4606.46 --> 4607.26] places in the Bible. -[4608.02 --> 4609.08] One really clear -[4609.08 --> 4610.06] example is from -[4610.06 --> 4611.70] 2 Chronicles 12, -[4612.04 --> 4612.74] verse 1. -[4612.92 --> 4613.82] So this is back -[4613.82 --> 4615.20] in the Old Testament. -[4616.56 --> 4617.10] It says, -[4617.70 --> 4619.58] after Rehoboam's -[4619.58 --> 4620.60] position as king -[4620.60 --> 4621.38] was established -[4621.38 --> 4622.52] and he had become -[4622.52 --> 4623.12] strong, -[4623.40 --> 4625.42] he and all Israel -[4625.42 --> 4626.42] with him -[4626.42 --> 4627.96] abandoned the law -[4627.96 --> 4628.84] of the Lord. -[4630.42 --> 4631.06] Now I use this -[4631.06 --> 4631.76] as an example -[4631.76 --> 4632.68] because it's really -[4632.68 --> 4633.16] interesting -[4633.16 --> 4634.10] for two reasons. -[4634.82 --> 4635.68] First of all, -[4636.12 --> 4636.78] Rehoboam -[4636.78 --> 4638.60] is the first king -[4638.60 --> 4640.18] in what's called -[4640.18 --> 4641.28] the divided kingdom. -[4642.04 --> 4643.06] So after Solomon, -[4643.56 --> 4644.86] the kingdom of Israel -[4644.86 --> 4645.56] is divided -[4645.56 --> 4646.48] into the northern -[4646.48 --> 4647.66] kingdom called Israel -[4647.66 --> 4648.52] and the southern -[4648.52 --> 4649.66] kingdom called Judah. -[4650.96 --> 4652.14] At this point, -[4652.94 --> 4653.62] Rehoboam -[4653.62 --> 4654.50] becomes king -[4654.50 --> 4656.02] not in the northern -[4656.02 --> 4656.98] kingdom of Israel -[4656.98 --> 4658.46] but in Judah. -[4658.46 --> 4660.56] And so when they write -[4660.56 --> 4661.16] in Chronicles, -[4661.30 --> 4662.12] all Israel -[4662.12 --> 4663.34] had abandoned -[4663.34 --> 4663.86] the Lord, -[4664.66 --> 4665.38] actually, -[4666.14 --> 4667.50] he's king in Judah -[4667.50 --> 4668.72] and so they're using -[4668.72 --> 4670.40] Israel as a name -[4670.40 --> 4671.22] or a placeholder -[4671.22 --> 4671.78] for something -[4671.78 --> 4672.68] that is not directly, -[4672.80 --> 4673.08] but again, -[4673.18 --> 4674.10] referring to -[4674.10 --> 4674.90] the whole. -[4677.08 --> 4677.92] This part of -[4677.92 --> 4680.58] Chronicles -[4680.58 --> 4681.02] then, -[4681.36 --> 4681.96] also, -[4682.18 --> 4682.78] the second reason -[4682.78 --> 4683.44] why it's interesting -[4683.44 --> 4686.40] is that all Israel -[4686.40 --> 4687.14] with him -[4687.14 --> 4687.80] had abandoned -[4687.80 --> 4688.30] the law -[4688.30 --> 4688.86] of the Lord. -[4689.50 --> 4689.86] And yet, -[4689.96 --> 4690.52] when you read -[4690.52 --> 4691.70] the other telling -[4691.70 --> 4692.70] of this story, -[4692.82 --> 4693.32] it's recorded -[4693.32 --> 4694.64] in 1 Kings 13, -[4695.22 --> 4696.36] there's a fascinating -[4696.36 --> 4697.72] recounting -[4697.72 --> 4698.50] of a prophet -[4698.50 --> 4699.58] who doesn't have -[4699.58 --> 4700.52] any name given -[4700.52 --> 4702.18] but who is identified -[4702.18 --> 4703.42] in 1 Kings 13 -[4703.42 --> 4703.98] verse 1 -[4703.98 --> 4705.10] only as -[4705.10 --> 4706.36] a man of God -[4706.36 --> 4707.00] who came -[4707.00 --> 4708.12] from Judah. -[4708.12 --> 4710.54] Now, -[4710.60 --> 4711.76] this man prophesies -[4711.76 --> 4712.56] that one day -[4712.56 --> 4713.64] a king will come -[4713.64 --> 4714.34] and he even -[4714.34 --> 4714.98] gives his name. -[4715.06 --> 4715.96] He says his name -[4715.96 --> 4717.10] will be a son -[4717.10 --> 4718.52] called Josiah -[4718.52 --> 4719.94] in the line of David. -[4721.26 --> 4721.84] And so this too -[4721.84 --> 4722.50] is to the southern -[4722.50 --> 4723.22] kingdom. -[4724.04 --> 4724.14] Now, -[4724.20 --> 4725.20] about 300 years -[4725.20 --> 4726.18] after Rehoboam, -[4727.78 --> 4728.32] Josiah -[4728.32 --> 4729.58] becomes king -[4729.58 --> 4731.16] and he's actually -[4731.16 --> 4731.52] credited -[4731.52 --> 4732.22] with all sorts -[4732.22 --> 4732.84] of reforms -[4732.84 --> 4733.60] that brought -[4733.60 --> 4734.08] the people -[4734.08 --> 4734.90] back to God. -[4735.74 --> 4736.06] Right? -[4736.12 --> 4736.70] And a lineage -[4736.70 --> 4737.72] of really bad -[4737.72 --> 4738.36] kings -[4738.36 --> 4739.66] leading the people -[4739.66 --> 4740.10] away, -[4740.30 --> 4741.28] Josiah comes -[4741.28 --> 4742.14] and is one -[4742.14 --> 4743.34] that leads -[4743.34 --> 4743.88] the people -[4743.88 --> 4745.14] back to God. -[4746.64 --> 4747.22] The reason why -[4747.22 --> 4747.90] this is an important -[4747.90 --> 4749.36] point and is pertinent -[4749.36 --> 4749.74] for here -[4749.74 --> 4750.84] because the Bible -[4750.84 --> 4752.88] describes all Israel -[4752.88 --> 4753.94] as walking away -[4753.94 --> 4754.52] and yet, -[4754.68 --> 4755.36] obviously, -[4755.82 --> 4756.94] there's a distinction -[4756.94 --> 4759.40] within that phrase -[4759.40 --> 4760.62] because there is -[4760.62 --> 4761.54] a man of God -[4761.54 --> 4762.50] who prophesies -[4762.50 --> 4764.98] and who told -[4764.98 --> 4765.68] the truth -[4765.68 --> 4766.68] about Josiah -[4766.68 --> 4767.70] who we can -[4767.70 --> 4767.96] then, -[4768.16 --> 4768.36] I think, -[4768.56 --> 4769.18] conclude -[4769.18 --> 4770.44] didn't abandon -[4770.44 --> 4771.24] the law -[4771.24 --> 4772.08] of the Lord -[4772.08 --> 4773.18] because he's -[4773.18 --> 4773.80] a man of God. -[4775.58 --> 4775.70] Right? -[4775.76 --> 4776.74] Using the phrase -[4776.74 --> 4777.72] all Israel -[4777.72 --> 4778.98] still allows -[4778.98 --> 4781.10] for exceptions -[4781.10 --> 4782.90] or for distinctions -[4782.90 --> 4784.42] within it. -[4784.42 --> 4787.92] now, -[4788.18 --> 4790.44] that means that -[4790.44 --> 4791.06] it's most -[4791.06 --> 4792.66] likely the case -[4792.66 --> 4794.34] that what Paul -[4794.34 --> 4795.62] is referring -[4795.62 --> 4796.70] to here -[4796.70 --> 4797.48] back in -[4797.48 --> 4798.68] Romans 11 -[4798.68 --> 4799.76] 26 now -[4799.76 --> 4801.28] is -[4801.28 --> 4804.62] a great -[4804.62 --> 4805.26] mass -[4805.26 --> 4806.30] of -[4806.30 --> 4807.86] Jewish -[4807.86 --> 4808.56] people -[4808.56 --> 4809.42] who will -[4809.42 --> 4810.10] come to -[4810.10 --> 4810.52] believe. -[4810.52 --> 4812.26] Paul is -[4812.26 --> 4812.92] not saying -[4812.92 --> 4813.72] that every -[4813.72 --> 4814.40] Jew -[4814.40 --> 4815.08] will be -[4815.08 --> 4815.62] saved -[4815.62 --> 4816.02] but that -[4816.02 --> 4816.56] the vast -[4816.56 --> 4816.94] number -[4816.94 --> 4817.20] of -[4817.20 --> 4817.98] Israelites -[4817.98 --> 4819.40] will join -[4819.40 --> 4820.30] the believing -[4820.30 --> 4821.02] remnant -[4821.02 --> 4821.70] at some -[4821.70 --> 4822.22] point -[4822.22 --> 4823.38] in history. -[4823.90 --> 4824.48] Maybe it's a -[4824.48 --> 4825.38] future thing, -[4825.46 --> 4825.96] maybe it's a -[4825.96 --> 4826.64] concurrent thing, -[4826.70 --> 4827.16] we'll dig into -[4827.16 --> 4827.40] that. -[4829.34 --> 4829.92] The use -[4829.92 --> 4830.62] of this -[4830.62 --> 4831.18] word -[4831.18 --> 4831.66] in this -[4831.66 --> 4832.08] way, -[4832.96 --> 4833.62] the word -[4833.62 --> 4834.00] Israel -[4834.00 --> 4834.58] in this -[4834.58 --> 4834.80] way, -[4834.94 --> 4835.36] matches -[4835.36 --> 4836.68] also how -[4836.68 --> 4837.08] it's used -[4837.08 --> 4837.38] in the -[4837.38 --> 4838.26] rest of -[4838.26 --> 4838.78] the chapter -[4838.78 --> 4839.52] and in -[4839.52 --> 4839.86] the rest -[4839.86 --> 4840.14] of this -[4840.14 --> 4840.32] little -[4840.32 --> 4840.68] section. -[4841.12 --> 4841.38] Remember, -[4841.60 --> 4841.84] we're -[4841.84 --> 4842.70] looking for -[4842.70 --> 4843.26] contradictions. -[4845.30 --> 4845.98] Paul -[4845.98 --> 4846.90] often uses -[4846.90 --> 4847.34] the word -[4847.34 --> 4847.74] Israel -[4847.74 --> 4848.62] to refer -[4848.62 --> 4849.36] to the -[4849.36 --> 4849.86] majority -[4849.86 --> 4850.96] of Israel -[4850.96 --> 4851.58] over -[4851.58 --> 4852.10] against -[4852.10 --> 4852.66] the -[4852.66 --> 4853.50] minority -[4853.50 --> 4854.74] of -[4854.74 --> 4855.24] Jews -[4855.24 --> 4855.80] who did -[4855.80 --> 4856.20] come to -[4856.20 --> 4856.58] believe -[4856.58 --> 4857.32] in Jesus -[4857.32 --> 4857.80] at the -[4857.80 --> 4858.06] time. -[4859.02 --> 4859.42] And so, -[4859.76 --> 4860.28] for instance, -[4860.42 --> 4860.76] when Paul -[4860.76 --> 4861.34] speaks about -[4861.34 --> 4861.78] Israel -[4861.78 --> 4862.32] rejecting -[4862.32 --> 4862.96] the gospel, -[4863.38 --> 4863.60] he's -[4863.60 --> 4864.16] obviously -[4864.16 --> 4864.60] not -[4864.60 --> 4865.08] including -[4865.08 --> 4865.66] himself -[4865.66 --> 4866.28] in -[4866.28 --> 4866.62] that, -[4867.38 --> 4867.62] right, -[4867.68 --> 4868.32] because he's -[4868.32 --> 4868.82] an example -[4868.82 --> 4869.36] that not -[4869.36 --> 4869.84] all Israel -[4869.84 --> 4871.18] has rejected -[4871.18 --> 4871.78] the gospel, -[4872.30 --> 4872.86] even though -[4872.86 --> 4873.58] he is part -[4873.58 --> 4874.86] of ethnic -[4874.86 --> 4875.70] Israel. -[4877.98 --> 4878.66] Now, -[4879.20 --> 4880.02] as we -[4880.02 --> 4882.58] wade -[4882.58 --> 4883.30] our way -[4883.30 --> 4884.04] through -[4884.04 --> 4884.62] this, -[4885.36 --> 4886.00] it's also -[4886.00 --> 4886.80] important to -[4886.80 --> 4887.94] realize at -[4887.94 --> 4888.46] this point -[4888.46 --> 4888.90] that there -[4888.90 --> 4890.14] are many -[4890.14 --> 4890.88] people, -[4891.30 --> 4891.66] Bible -[4891.66 --> 4892.10] scholars, -[4892.32 --> 4892.66] teachers -[4892.66 --> 4893.18] alike, -[4893.18 --> 4894.78] who think -[4894.78 --> 4895.52] that Paul -[4895.52 --> 4896.54] must be -[4896.54 --> 4897.46] talking about -[4897.46 --> 4898.24] some sort -[4898.24 --> 4899.06] of last -[4899.06 --> 4899.52] minute, -[4899.78 --> 4901.02] large scale, -[4901.52 --> 4902.54] end times, -[4902.72 --> 4903.66] mass revival -[4903.66 --> 4904.66] of Christianity -[4904.66 --> 4905.34] among the -[4905.34 --> 4905.94] Jewish people. -[4907.10 --> 4907.96] And honestly, -[4908.06 --> 4908.64] that could be -[4908.64 --> 4909.16] the case. -[4910.86 --> 4911.76] But the -[4911.76 --> 4912.34] language that -[4912.34 --> 4912.86] Paul uses -[4912.86 --> 4914.66] here doesn't -[4914.66 --> 4915.40] require that -[4915.40 --> 4916.02] that is the -[4916.02 --> 4916.34] case, -[4916.74 --> 4917.08] or doesn't -[4917.08 --> 4917.94] necessitate that -[4917.94 --> 4918.28] that's the -[4918.28 --> 4918.82] only way -[4918.82 --> 4920.14] to understand -[4920.14 --> 4920.54] it. -[4920.54 --> 4921.50] Paul's -[4921.50 --> 4921.90] language -[4921.90 --> 4922.96] here could -[4922.96 --> 4923.58] allow, -[4924.14 --> 4924.92] and tip my -[4924.92 --> 4925.14] hand, -[4925.22 --> 4925.48] I think -[4925.48 --> 4926.24] actually probably -[4926.24 --> 4927.14] leans in this -[4927.14 --> 4927.38] way, -[4927.70 --> 4928.40] could allow -[4928.40 --> 4929.08] for a -[4929.08 --> 4930.22] steady but -[4930.22 --> 4930.72] growing, -[4930.88 --> 4932.50] slowly increasing -[4932.50 --> 4933.44] number of -[4933.44 --> 4933.98] Jews who -[4933.98 --> 4934.38] become -[4934.38 --> 4934.90] Christian -[4934.90 --> 4935.92] until we -[4935.92 --> 4936.64] arrive at a -[4936.64 --> 4937.56] time when -[4937.56 --> 4938.26] it is more -[4938.26 --> 4939.38] or most -[4939.38 --> 4941.14] who believe -[4941.14 --> 4942.24] in Jesus. -[4942.24 --> 4942.38] Jesus. -[4943.56 --> 4944.18] In fact, -[4944.26 --> 4944.56] I think -[4944.56 --> 4945.50] this move, -[4946.26 --> 4947.00] whether it's -[4947.00 --> 4947.76] a large -[4947.76 --> 4949.10] conversion -[4949.10 --> 4949.82] near the -[4949.82 --> 4950.32] end of -[4950.32 --> 4950.98] time or -[4950.98 --> 4951.50] a more -[4951.50 --> 4952.76] slow and -[4952.76 --> 4953.28] progressive -[4953.28 --> 4954.22] culmination -[4954.22 --> 4954.68] of things, -[4954.98 --> 4955.32] I think -[4955.32 --> 4956.38] it's the -[4956.38 --> 4957.28] conclusion of -[4957.28 --> 4958.32] that that -[4958.32 --> 4958.92] gives Paul -[4958.92 --> 4959.92] confidence -[4959.92 --> 4961.76] to quote -[4961.76 --> 4962.90] from Isaiah, -[4963.14 --> 4964.16] which he does -[4964.16 --> 4965.50] immediately following. -[4965.62 --> 4966.06] He says, -[4966.58 --> 4967.62] the deliverer -[4967.62 --> 4968.20] will come -[4968.20 --> 4968.92] from Zion, -[4969.12 --> 4969.92] he will turn -[4969.92 --> 4970.76] godlessness -[4970.76 --> 4972.14] away from -[4972.14 --> 4972.52] Jacob. -[4972.90 --> 4973.40] Now remember, -[4973.56 --> 4974.22] Jacob's name -[4974.22 --> 4974.90] was changed -[4974.90 --> 4976.98] to Israel. -[4978.16 --> 4978.64] And then he -[4978.64 --> 4978.78] says, -[4978.88 --> 4979.46] this is my -[4979.46 --> 4980.08] covenant with -[4980.08 --> 4980.64] them when I -[4980.64 --> 4981.24] take away -[4981.24 --> 4982.24] their sins. -[4983.22 --> 4984.16] This confidence -[4984.16 --> 4985.04] that Paul has, -[4985.10 --> 4985.52] I think, -[4985.58 --> 4986.24] is the same -[4986.24 --> 4987.46] confidence that's -[4987.46 --> 4988.32] expressed in -[4988.32 --> 4989.84] verse 28 when -[4989.84 --> 4990.36] he says, -[4990.68 --> 4991.22] as far as -[4991.22 --> 4992.10] election is -[4992.10 --> 4992.68] concerned, -[4992.86 --> 4993.42] they are loved -[4993.42 --> 4994.04] on account of -[4994.04 --> 4995.00] the patriarchs, -[4995.00 --> 4995.68] for God's -[4995.68 --> 4996.56] gifts and his -[4996.56 --> 4997.58] call are -[4997.58 --> 4998.38] irrevocable. -[4999.78 --> 5000.60] So what we're -[5000.60 --> 5001.16] seeing is that -[5001.16 --> 5002.50] ethnic Israel -[5002.50 --> 5004.20] matters in -[5004.20 --> 5004.90] God's plan -[5004.90 --> 5005.56] of salvation. -[5006.78 --> 5007.42] And a day -[5007.42 --> 5008.20] will come -[5008.20 --> 5009.54] when most -[5009.54 --> 5010.08] of them -[5010.08 --> 5011.46] remember that. -[5012.70 --> 5013.34] And when -[5013.34 --> 5014.02] they remember -[5014.02 --> 5014.44] that, -[5014.62 --> 5015.28] salvation will -[5015.28 --> 5015.68] come to -[5015.68 --> 5015.86] them. -[5016.18 --> 5016.82] That's Paul's -[5016.82 --> 5017.08] hope. -[5018.90 --> 5020.52] But the -[5020.52 --> 5021.14] ground of -[5021.14 --> 5021.92] their salvation -[5021.92 --> 5023.38] is still the -[5023.38 --> 5024.50] same as the -[5024.50 --> 5025.34] ground of our -[5025.34 --> 5025.94] salvation, -[5026.18 --> 5027.22] of all salvation -[5027.22 --> 5027.82] that has been -[5027.82 --> 5028.52] granted by -[5028.52 --> 5029.64] God's mercy. -[5030.60 --> 5031.06] That's the -[5031.06 --> 5031.76] second question -[5031.76 --> 5033.12] of our -[5033.12 --> 5033.48] text. -[5033.68 --> 5035.02] How are -[5035.02 --> 5035.60] they saved? -[5036.22 --> 5036.60] And here's -[5036.60 --> 5036.92] where I want -[5036.92 --> 5037.52] you to -[5037.52 --> 5039.22] unpack that -[5039.22 --> 5039.74] line from -[5039.74 --> 5040.40] verse 23. -[5040.56 --> 5040.80] Remember, -[5040.96 --> 5041.42] Paul said, -[5041.80 --> 5042.24] if they do -[5042.24 --> 5043.04] not persist -[5043.04 --> 5044.12] in unbelief, -[5044.74 --> 5045.20] they will be -[5045.20 --> 5045.74] grafted in. -[5047.16 --> 5047.60] Now, -[5047.72 --> 5048.30] let me remind -[5048.30 --> 5048.54] you, -[5048.62 --> 5049.38] we've already -[5049.38 --> 5050.16] agreed on the -[5050.16 --> 5051.12] assumption that -[5051.12 --> 5051.90] Paul wouldn't -[5051.90 --> 5052.98] contradict himself -[5052.98 --> 5054.02] in this section, -[5054.16 --> 5055.08] nor would Paul -[5055.08 --> 5055.94] contradict other -[5055.94 --> 5056.78] parts of his -[5056.78 --> 5057.30] letter to the -[5057.30 --> 5057.56] Romans, -[5057.66 --> 5058.32] or the rest of -[5058.32 --> 5058.80] his letters, -[5058.98 --> 5059.68] or the New -[5059.68 --> 5060.70] Testament more -[5060.70 --> 5061.10] generally. -[5062.20 --> 5062.60] And so, -[5062.74 --> 5063.06] remember, -[5063.22 --> 5063.82] even when Paul -[5063.82 --> 5064.52] says in chapter -[5064.52 --> 5064.88] 9, -[5064.96 --> 5065.48] verse 8, -[5065.58 --> 5066.00] it is the -[5066.00 --> 5066.46] children of -[5066.46 --> 5066.94] the promise -[5066.94 --> 5067.28] who are -[5067.28 --> 5067.84] Abraham's -[5067.84 --> 5068.32] descendants, -[5069.14 --> 5069.30] right? -[5069.42 --> 5070.28] The promise -[5070.28 --> 5071.16] has to be -[5071.16 --> 5072.90] believed for -[5072.90 --> 5073.28] it to be -[5073.28 --> 5073.76] effective. -[5075.56 --> 5076.02] In chapter -[5076.02 --> 5076.56] 4, -[5076.94 --> 5077.60] we read, -[5078.14 --> 5079.00] or you can -[5079.00 --> 5079.40] read, -[5080.04 --> 5080.62] for verse -[5080.62 --> 5081.10] 16, -[5081.32 --> 5081.74] it says, -[5081.86 --> 5082.44] the promise -[5082.44 --> 5083.12] comes by -[5083.12 --> 5083.72] faith, -[5084.00 --> 5084.68] so that it -[5084.68 --> 5085.22] may be by -[5085.22 --> 5085.86] grace and -[5085.86 --> 5086.12] may be -[5086.12 --> 5086.94] guaranteed to -[5086.94 --> 5088.24] all Abraham's -[5088.24 --> 5088.64] offspring, -[5089.04 --> 5089.82] not only those -[5089.82 --> 5090.34] who have the -[5090.34 --> 5090.62] law, -[5090.76 --> 5092.16] but also those -[5092.16 --> 5092.80] who have the -[5092.80 --> 5093.40] faith of -[5093.40 --> 5093.80] Abraham. -[5094.12 --> 5095.08] He is the -[5095.08 --> 5096.08] father of -[5096.08 --> 5096.62] us all. -[5097.56 --> 5098.22] The promise -[5098.22 --> 5099.04] is believed -[5099.04 --> 5100.06] by faith as -[5100.06 --> 5101.46] a result of -[5101.46 --> 5102.30] grace. -[5103.20 --> 5103.74] And again, -[5104.12 --> 5104.56] Paul's not -[5104.56 --> 5104.84] going to -[5104.84 --> 5105.86] contradict himself, -[5106.02 --> 5106.24] right? -[5106.64 --> 5107.64] Even in other -[5107.64 --> 5108.56] letters that he -[5108.56 --> 5108.90] has written. -[5110.08 --> 5110.44] And so, -[5110.64 --> 5111.42] let's continue -[5111.42 --> 5111.84] to let -[5111.84 --> 5112.22] Scripture -[5112.22 --> 5113.54] interpret Scripture. -[5113.68 --> 5114.06] Whenever you -[5114.06 --> 5114.64] are studying the -[5114.64 --> 5115.06] Bible and you -[5115.06 --> 5115.62] have a question, -[5115.72 --> 5116.16] what on earth -[5116.16 --> 5116.76] does it mean -[5116.76 --> 5118.72] look for other -[5118.72 --> 5119.48] places in the -[5119.48 --> 5120.06] Bible where it's -[5120.06 --> 5121.04] talked about and -[5121.04 --> 5121.96] you can begin -[5121.96 --> 5122.84] to understand. -[5123.68 --> 5125.08] In Galatians 3, -[5125.28 --> 5126.16] verse 7, -[5126.54 --> 5127.34] another letter of -[5127.34 --> 5127.68] Paul, -[5128.02 --> 5128.82] we read, -[5129.88 --> 5130.90] understand then -[5130.90 --> 5131.78] those who have -[5131.78 --> 5132.86] faith are the -[5132.86 --> 5133.56] children of -[5133.56 --> 5133.90] Abraham. -[5134.50 --> 5135.02] And then later -[5135.02 --> 5135.64] down in verse -[5135.64 --> 5136.14] 29, -[5136.58 --> 5137.52] if you belong to -[5137.52 --> 5137.98] Christ, -[5138.10 --> 5138.56] then you are -[5138.56 --> 5139.80] Abraham's seed and -[5139.80 --> 5141.10] heirs according to -[5141.10 --> 5141.62] the promise. -[5141.74 --> 5141.96] And so, -[5142.18 --> 5143.24] start stacking these -[5143.24 --> 5144.24] things together. -[5144.24 --> 5144.32] together. -[5145.52 --> 5145.94] It is the -[5145.94 --> 5146.70] grace of God -[5146.70 --> 5147.26] or the mercy -[5147.26 --> 5147.90] of God that -[5147.90 --> 5148.82] grants faith in -[5148.82 --> 5149.70] the promises of -[5149.70 --> 5150.74] God that then -[5150.74 --> 5152.12] unites you to -[5152.12 --> 5153.12] Christ, that makes -[5153.12 --> 5154.68] you belong to -[5154.68 --> 5155.34] him. -[5155.42 --> 5156.00] And it is the -[5156.00 --> 5156.94] belonging to -[5156.94 --> 5158.20] Christ that -[5158.20 --> 5158.74] saves you. -[5158.82 --> 5159.22] It is the -[5159.22 --> 5160.02] living and -[5160.02 --> 5161.16] loving Jesus -[5161.16 --> 5162.12] and the living -[5162.12 --> 5163.08] and loving of -[5163.08 --> 5164.12] Jesus that -[5164.12 --> 5164.88] brings salvation. -[5166.04 --> 5166.46] And again, -[5166.98 --> 5167.64] Paul's not going -[5167.64 --> 5168.52] to contradict the -[5168.52 --> 5169.14] rest of the New -[5169.14 --> 5169.78] Testament. -[5169.98 --> 5170.30] And so, -[5170.42 --> 5171.20] you can actually -[5171.20 --> 5172.28] dig even further -[5172.28 --> 5173.36] and find agreement -[5173.36 --> 5174.20] with this truth -[5174.20 --> 5175.20] also from the -[5175.20 --> 5175.90] very words of -[5175.90 --> 5177.00] Jesus himself. -[5177.98 --> 5178.86] In John 8, -[5178.94 --> 5179.60] verse 39, -[5180.66 --> 5181.14] and I won't -[5181.14 --> 5181.60] read the whole -[5181.60 --> 5182.06] thing, but you -[5182.06 --> 5182.44] can write it -[5182.44 --> 5183.20] down, John 8, -[5183.28 --> 5184.24] 39, and look -[5184.24 --> 5184.56] it up. -[5184.70 --> 5185.44] I'll paraphrase. -[5186.08 --> 5186.88] Jesus makes -[5186.88 --> 5188.04] clear using this -[5188.04 --> 5188.96] language that the -[5188.96 --> 5189.96] true descendants -[5189.96 --> 5191.28] of Father Abraham -[5191.28 --> 5192.64] are the ones who -[5192.64 --> 5194.04] do his, Jesus, -[5194.48 --> 5195.78] and God's, his -[5195.78 --> 5196.74] father's, will. -[5197.42 --> 5198.06] The ones who -[5198.06 --> 5199.58] recognize in Jesus -[5199.58 --> 5200.56] the one true -[5200.56 --> 5201.66] son loved by the -[5201.66 --> 5202.70] father and who -[5202.70 --> 5203.82] therefore love -[5203.82 --> 5204.86] Jesus. -[5206.78 --> 5207.40] Throughout this -[5207.40 --> 5208.16] whole section, -[5208.38 --> 5208.72] throughout this -[5208.72 --> 5209.52] whole letter of -[5209.52 --> 5210.24] Romans, throughout -[5210.24 --> 5211.08] the whole New -[5211.08 --> 5212.30] Testament, you can -[5212.30 --> 5213.64] see that it is -[5213.64 --> 5215.38] God's choosing by -[5215.38 --> 5216.20] grace. -[5218.18 --> 5219.18] We've seen this -[5219.18 --> 5220.24] and you can read -[5220.24 --> 5221.92] it in Ephesians 2, -[5222.04 --> 5222.52] verse 8. -[5223.40 --> 5224.42] For it is by grace -[5224.42 --> 5225.74] you have been -[5225.74 --> 5226.70] saved through -[5226.70 --> 5227.34] faith. -[5227.98 --> 5228.62] And this is not -[5228.62 --> 5229.22] from yourselves, -[5229.32 --> 5230.22] it is the gift of -[5230.22 --> 5231.46] God, not by works, -[5231.46 --> 5232.22] so that no one -[5232.22 --> 5233.14] can boast. -[5234.66 --> 5235.42] Back in chapter -[5235.42 --> 5236.32] 10 of Romans, -[5236.58 --> 5237.28] you read, -[5237.54 --> 5238.34] if you declare -[5238.34 --> 5239.08] with your mouth -[5239.08 --> 5240.10] Jesus is Lord -[5240.10 --> 5240.98] and believe in -[5240.98 --> 5241.70] your heart God -[5241.70 --> 5242.24] raised him from -[5242.24 --> 5242.64] the dead, -[5242.78 --> 5243.94] you will be -[5243.94 --> 5244.72] saved. -[5246.12 --> 5247.30] And all of -[5247.30 --> 5249.42] that doesn't -[5249.42 --> 5251.60] change when it -[5251.60 --> 5253.12] comes to -[5253.12 --> 5253.58] Israel. -[5255.12 --> 5256.14] The way of -[5256.14 --> 5257.26] salvation doesn't -[5257.26 --> 5258.34] change for Israel -[5258.34 --> 5258.76] Israel who -[5258.76 --> 5259.96] will come and -[5259.96 --> 5260.82] are coming to -[5260.82 --> 5261.42] believe its -[5261.42 --> 5262.30] truth and who -[5262.30 --> 5263.26] will recognize -[5263.26 --> 5264.26] Jesus as their -[5264.26 --> 5265.38] Messiah and the -[5265.38 --> 5265.60] Lord. -[5265.78 --> 5266.86] Belief is what -[5266.86 --> 5267.80] is required. -[5268.08 --> 5268.94] Faith is -[5268.94 --> 5270.00] granted to the -[5270.00 --> 5270.30] elect. -[5270.42 --> 5271.20] The same is -[5271.20 --> 5272.20] true and will -[5272.20 --> 5273.16] be true for the -[5273.16 --> 5274.06] Israelites who -[5274.06 --> 5274.40] believe. -[5274.54 --> 5275.54] That's why in -[5275.54 --> 5276.80] chapter 11, at the -[5276.80 --> 5277.82] beginning, Paul uses -[5277.82 --> 5278.84] himself as an -[5278.84 --> 5279.70] example of this -[5279.70 --> 5280.02] truth. -[5280.90 --> 5283.14] For faith, for -[5283.14 --> 5284.50] God's gift, we -[5284.50 --> 5285.70] read, which is -[5285.70 --> 5286.70] faith and his -[5286.70 --> 5287.52] call, that is -[5287.52 --> 5288.52] to believe and -[5288.52 --> 5289.48] the belief itself, -[5289.88 --> 5291.26] for God's gift and -[5291.26 --> 5292.70] his call are -[5292.70 --> 5293.42] irrevocable. -[5296.70 --> 5298.28] And, like we -[5298.28 --> 5299.94] read in chapter -[5299.94 --> 5301.12] 9, 15, I will -[5301.12 --> 5301.94] have mercy on -[5301.94 --> 5302.44] whom I have -[5302.44 --> 5302.82] mercy. -[5303.56 --> 5303.94] It does not -[5303.94 --> 5304.60] therefore depend -[5304.60 --> 5305.48] on human desire -[5305.48 --> 5306.46] or effort, but -[5306.46 --> 5307.74] on God's -[5307.74 --> 5308.48] mercy. -[5309.90 --> 5311.68] The future and -[5311.68 --> 5313.14] emerging salvation -[5313.14 --> 5314.06] of Israel doesn't -[5314.06 --> 5315.04] depend on their -[5315.04 --> 5316.32] effort, but on -[5316.32 --> 5317.50] God's mercy. -[5318.92 --> 5319.68] And thus, it -[5319.68 --> 5321.14] seems to me, as -[5321.14 --> 5322.06] we continue then -[5322.06 --> 5323.22] plotting our way -[5323.22 --> 5324.32] through, verse 30 -[5324.32 --> 5326.08] and 31, tell the -[5326.08 --> 5328.24] story of how God -[5328.24 --> 5330.00] used Israel's -[5330.00 --> 5331.14] unbelief to -[5331.14 --> 5332.64] spur or to -[5332.64 --> 5333.94] instigate -[5333.94 --> 5335.58] Gentile belief, -[5335.84 --> 5336.88] thereby including -[5336.88 --> 5338.60] them, Gentiles, as -[5338.60 --> 5339.34] heirs of the -[5339.34 --> 5339.92] promise, as -[5339.92 --> 5341.36] seeds of Abraham, -[5341.36 --> 5343.00] and then how God -[5343.00 --> 5344.54] will in turn do -[5344.54 --> 5345.58] the same with -[5345.58 --> 5346.44] the Gentiles -[5346.44 --> 5347.60] back to or -[5347.60 --> 5349.32] for Israel, so -[5349.32 --> 5350.56] that they, Israel, -[5350.78 --> 5351.98] will believe and -[5351.98 --> 5353.32] have faith from -[5353.32 --> 5354.30] the mercy and -[5354.30 --> 5355.26] grace of God. -[5355.80 --> 5356.86] The means of -[5356.86 --> 5357.76] their coming to -[5357.76 --> 5359.08] belief and faith -[5359.08 --> 5360.80] at some point is, -[5361.00 --> 5362.28] in fact, their -[5362.28 --> 5363.92] rejection of Jesus -[5363.92 --> 5365.28] in his own day, -[5365.34 --> 5366.46] or in Paul's day, -[5366.80 --> 5368.58] because, what Paul is -[5368.58 --> 5369.62] saying, God will -[5369.62 --> 5371.40] use the Gentiles -[5371.40 --> 5372.90] who professed faith -[5372.90 --> 5374.34] and received mercy -[5374.34 --> 5375.46] and grace to -[5375.46 --> 5377.04] move the chosen -[5377.04 --> 5378.54] of ethnic Israel -[5378.54 --> 5379.64] back to him. -[5380.70 --> 5381.86] That's the mystery. -[5382.96 --> 5384.34] That's the amazing -[5384.34 --> 5385.84] grace of God, and -[5385.84 --> 5386.86] to be clear, it's -[5386.86 --> 5387.92] no wonder that as -[5387.92 --> 5388.88] Paul walks through -[5388.88 --> 5390.08] this, he ends and -[5390.08 --> 5391.02] breaks out in a big -[5391.02 --> 5392.36] hymn of praise, and -[5392.36 --> 5392.84] we'll look at that -[5392.84 --> 5393.36] next time. -[5394.22 --> 5396.08] But this moving -[5396.08 --> 5397.40] through in the -[5397.40 --> 5398.72] history of redemption -[5398.72 --> 5401.00] is what Michael -[5401.00 --> 5402.50] Byrd calls the -[5402.50 --> 5403.50] boomerang of -[5403.50 --> 5404.92] salvation, and I -[5404.92 --> 5405.34] think that's a -[5405.34 --> 5406.18] cool image. -[5406.26 --> 5406.70] It helps me -[5406.70 --> 5407.44] understand what's -[5407.44 --> 5407.96] going on. -[5408.26 --> 5409.78] The gospel goes -[5409.78 --> 5411.96] out because of -[5411.96 --> 5413.40] Jewish rejection, -[5414.04 --> 5415.02] and so the -[5415.02 --> 5416.28] Gentiles receive -[5416.28 --> 5417.92] salvation, and -[5417.92 --> 5418.72] it's the Gentiles -[5418.72 --> 5420.36] receiving mercy and -[5420.36 --> 5421.74] believing, then, -[5421.86 --> 5422.78] that will be used -[5422.78 --> 5423.60] by God that will -[5423.60 --> 5425.28] come back to have -[5425.28 --> 5426.26] the Jewish people -[5426.26 --> 5427.88] receive mercy and -[5427.88 --> 5428.26] believe. -[5429.16 --> 5430.20] That's verse 31. -[5430.40 --> 5431.74] So they, too, have -[5431.74 --> 5433.24] now become disobedient -[5433.24 --> 5434.10] in order that they, -[5434.24 --> 5435.58] too, may now receive -[5435.58 --> 5437.30] mercy as a result of -[5437.30 --> 5439.46] God's mercy on you. -[5441.12 --> 5443.60] But in both cases, for -[5443.60 --> 5444.80] Gentiles and for -[5444.80 --> 5446.06] Israel, it is -[5446.06 --> 5446.58] belief. -[5446.86 --> 5448.44] It is right belief in -[5448.44 --> 5450.32] Jesus as Messiah, as -[5450.32 --> 5451.70] Lord, as the Son of -[5451.70 --> 5452.98] God, as raised from -[5452.98 --> 5454.02] the dead, that is -[5454.02 --> 5455.18] necessary for -[5455.18 --> 5455.64] salvation. -[5456.32 --> 5457.12] There's not some -[5457.12 --> 5458.86] new or third way or -[5458.86 --> 5460.26] some loophole for -[5460.26 --> 5461.44] ethnic Israel to get -[5461.44 --> 5461.70] in. -[5461.86 --> 5462.92] They must believe. -[5463.96 --> 5465.28] And in fact, they -[5465.28 --> 5466.96] will believe because -[5466.96 --> 5467.76] God's plan of -[5467.76 --> 5468.66] redemption will not -[5468.66 --> 5470.38] be thwarted even by -[5470.38 --> 5472.30] the rejection of -[5472.30 --> 5473.68] Israel or by the -[5473.68 --> 5475.52] rejection of anyone. -[5476.52 --> 5477.64] Part of the amazing -[5477.64 --> 5479.12] thing that Paul is -[5479.12 --> 5480.40] telling us is that -[5480.40 --> 5483.80] there will be more of -[5483.80 --> 5485.94] them who believe than -[5485.94 --> 5487.14] we could by looking at -[5487.14 --> 5488.02] the world around us -[5488.02 --> 5489.08] now or that Paul could -[5489.08 --> 5489.70] by looking at the -[5489.70 --> 5490.50] world around him then -[5490.50 --> 5491.70] than he could possibly -[5491.70 --> 5492.20] imagine. -[5493.94 --> 5494.06] Right? -[5494.10 --> 5494.98] Paul's reason for -[5494.98 --> 5495.74] hope and his -[5495.74 --> 5497.02] confidence that they -[5497.02 --> 5498.26] will believe is rooted -[5498.26 --> 5499.48] in the fact that God's -[5499.48 --> 5501.76] promise and in the -[5501.76 --> 5503.42] truth of God's call -[5503.42 --> 5505.52] and in the reality that -[5505.52 --> 5507.30] God's word does not go -[5507.30 --> 5508.16] out without -[5508.16 --> 5510.04] accomplishing, or does not -[5510.04 --> 5510.78] come back to him -[5510.78 --> 5511.88] without accomplishing the -[5511.88 --> 5513.54] purposes for which it -[5513.54 --> 5514.24] was sent. -[5515.46 --> 5515.56] Right? -[5515.68 --> 5517.26] Just as the fullness of -[5517.26 --> 5518.86] Gentiles will come to -[5518.86 --> 5520.28] God, so too the fullness -[5520.28 --> 5522.38] or all Israel will -[5522.38 --> 5524.82] receive God's mercy and -[5524.82 --> 5525.50] believe. -[5526.48 --> 5528.08] This is the picture of -[5528.08 --> 5529.88] full inclusion, of full -[5529.88 --> 5531.92] equality before God. -[5532.64 --> 5533.84] That's verse 32 now. -[5534.42 --> 5535.36] For God has bound -[5535.36 --> 5536.74] everyone over to -[5536.74 --> 5537.76] disobedience, that is -[5537.76 --> 5539.14] Gentile and Jew alike, -[5539.24 --> 5540.76] everyone over, so that he -[5540.76 --> 5542.90] might have mercy on all -[5542.90 --> 5544.16] of them, that is Gentile -[5544.16 --> 5545.84] and Jew together by -[5545.84 --> 5546.72] grace through faith. -[5547.64 --> 5547.86] Right? -[5547.88 --> 5548.70] Or to paraphrase it -[5548.70 --> 5550.62] another way, all -[5550.62 --> 5552.60] peoples, both Gentiles -[5552.60 --> 5553.74] and Jews, have been -[5553.74 --> 5555.82] disobedient and yet all -[5555.82 --> 5557.18] peoples from the -[5557.18 --> 5558.26] Gentiles and from the -[5558.26 --> 5560.12] Jews will be found by -[5560.12 --> 5561.30] God's mercy. -[5562.44 --> 5563.90] God's mercy comes -[5563.90 --> 5565.38] without distinction, -[5566.66 --> 5568.96] but not without -[5568.96 --> 5569.90] exception. -[5570.76 --> 5572.52] because Jesus is still -[5572.52 --> 5574.24] true when he says, -[5574.44 --> 5575.66] no one comes to the -[5575.66 --> 5577.14] Father except -[5577.14 --> 5579.40] through me. -[5581.22 --> 5582.26] Now I get -[5582.26 --> 5584.20] that that's a lot -[5584.20 --> 5586.28] and that's heavy. -[5586.92 --> 5588.16] So I want to land this -[5588.16 --> 5590.28] plane really quickly -[5590.28 --> 5592.70] with just a couple -[5592.70 --> 5594.92] points of application. -[5594.92 --> 5596.86] first of all, first of all, -[5597.42 --> 5597.96] first of all, remember, -[5598.68 --> 5601.12] in chapter 11, -[5602.36 --> 5604.90] Paul is encouraging the -[5604.90 --> 5606.30] Gentile Christians who -[5606.30 --> 5608.56] believe and who are -[5608.56 --> 5610.46] experiencing the rejection -[5610.46 --> 5613.02] of Israel to not be -[5613.02 --> 5614.48] conceited or proud. -[5614.60 --> 5616.10] He's encouraging them to -[5616.10 --> 5616.98] have humility. -[5617.80 --> 5618.12] Right? -[5618.18 --> 5619.44] The point of Paul's call -[5619.44 --> 5622.02] here is humility for -[5622.02 --> 5622.92] Gentile believers. -[5622.92 --> 5623.02] believers. -[5624.08 --> 5624.54] And so, -[5625.30 --> 5627.06] as we make a -[5627.06 --> 5628.12] pastoral application, -[5629.28 --> 5630.32] whether you are born -[5630.32 --> 5631.56] in a Christian home -[5631.56 --> 5632.68] to loving Christian -[5632.68 --> 5633.92] parents who brought -[5633.92 --> 5634.80] you to church for -[5634.80 --> 5636.90] baptism before you -[5636.90 --> 5638.18] were three weeks old, -[5638.30 --> 5639.52] just two weeks old, -[5640.10 --> 5643.78] or if you're dealing -[5643.78 --> 5645.08] drugs and murdering -[5645.08 --> 5646.08] people on the streets, -[5646.08 --> 5648.60] it's all the amazing -[5648.60 --> 5649.40] grace of God. -[5655.00 --> 5655.96] And so, -[5656.90 --> 5661.10] practice humility -[5661.10 --> 5664.26] with deep gratitude. -[5665.80 --> 5667.12] With deep gratitude -[5667.12 --> 5668.46] and a worshiping heart -[5668.46 --> 5670.62] for what God has done. -[5670.62 --> 5672.64] And then two, -[5672.90 --> 5673.28] remember, -[5673.62 --> 5674.74] that nothing, -[5675.52 --> 5677.68] not even stubbornness -[5677.68 --> 5678.84] or rejection, -[5679.54 --> 5680.72] is going to thwart -[5680.72 --> 5682.02] God's plan of salvation. -[5684.12 --> 5685.38] That there is nothing -[5685.38 --> 5687.92] that you can do -[5687.92 --> 5688.88] that will stop -[5688.88 --> 5690.06] God's mercy -[5690.06 --> 5691.20] from overcoming it. -[5691.20 --> 5696.10] God has decreed -[5696.10 --> 5697.58] that some -[5697.58 --> 5698.58] would be -[5698.58 --> 5699.30] saved -[5699.30 --> 5700.06] and he -[5700.06 --> 5701.26] will make -[5701.26 --> 5702.58] that salvation -[5702.58 --> 5703.96] come about. -[5704.18 --> 5705.22] You can be -[5705.22 --> 5706.14] sure -[5706.14 --> 5707.14] of that. -[5707.86 --> 5708.28] And so, -[5708.36 --> 5709.64] even as you look -[5709.64 --> 5710.86] at your life, -[5710.98 --> 5711.78] even as you look -[5711.78 --> 5712.46] at the lives -[5712.46 --> 5713.12] of the people -[5713.12 --> 5713.98] you love -[5713.98 --> 5714.70] who maybe -[5714.70 --> 5715.92] don't seem like -[5715.92 --> 5716.64] they're following -[5716.64 --> 5717.44] after God, -[5717.52 --> 5718.18] who maybe aren't -[5718.18 --> 5719.50] yet professing -[5719.50 --> 5720.74] this truth, -[5721.94 --> 5724.36] that doesn't mean -[5724.36 --> 5725.16] they never will. -[5727.06 --> 5728.18] Because God's -[5728.18 --> 5729.02] plan of salvation -[5729.02 --> 5731.16] will not be thwarted -[5731.16 --> 5732.74] by anyone -[5732.74 --> 5734.10] or anything -[5734.10 --> 5735.24] in all -[5735.24 --> 5736.42] of creation. -[5737.62 --> 5738.06] And so, -[5738.58 --> 5739.78] last or thirdly, -[5740.12 --> 5741.18] take this as -[5741.18 --> 5741.66] comfort -[5741.66 --> 5742.80] and assurance -[5742.80 --> 5744.10] into today. -[5744.26 --> 5744.90] Take this as -[5744.90 --> 5745.90] comfort and assurance -[5745.90 --> 5746.84] into your -[5746.84 --> 5747.72] raising of Jane. -[5748.18 --> 5750.18] that God -[5750.18 --> 5750.78] has a plan -[5750.78 --> 5751.32] for her -[5751.32 --> 5752.08] and that it -[5752.08 --> 5752.74] will not be -[5752.74 --> 5753.20] thwarted -[5753.20 --> 5754.12] no matter how -[5754.12 --> 5755.08] awesome of parents -[5755.08 --> 5755.52] you are -[5755.52 --> 5756.40] or how bad -[5756.40 --> 5757.02] you are. -[5757.94 --> 5758.58] No matter how -[5758.58 --> 5759.44] well you bless -[5759.44 --> 5760.22] them or how -[5760.22 --> 5761.42] badly you -[5761.42 --> 5762.32] traumatize them. -[5764.18 --> 5764.78] God -[5764.78 --> 5765.58] will not -[5765.58 --> 5766.06] be -[5766.06 --> 5767.04] overcome. -[5768.18 --> 5769.16] He will -[5769.16 --> 5769.72] overcome. -[5770.82 --> 5771.68] And he has -[5771.68 --> 5772.22] made those -[5772.22 --> 5772.96] who believe -[5772.96 --> 5773.82] overcomers. -[5775.42 --> 5776.16] And then -[5776.16 --> 5776.54] lastly, -[5776.76 --> 5777.28] and I'm -[5777.28 --> 5777.60] going to say -[5777.60 --> 5779.22] most importantly, -[5780.30 --> 5780.96] what this -[5780.96 --> 5781.82] text does -[5781.82 --> 5782.70] for us -[5782.70 --> 5783.76] is undergird -[5783.76 --> 5784.82] the absolute -[5784.82 --> 5786.10] critical -[5786.10 --> 5787.26] importance -[5787.26 --> 5788.86] of God's -[5788.86 --> 5789.22] mission -[5789.22 --> 5789.90] through the -[5789.90 --> 5790.26] church -[5790.26 --> 5791.16] to all -[5791.16 --> 5791.54] people. -[5792.58 --> 5793.52] God's mission -[5793.52 --> 5793.94] through the -[5793.94 --> 5794.16] church -[5794.16 --> 5794.86] to proclaim -[5794.86 --> 5795.48] the gospel -[5795.48 --> 5796.38] of Jesus -[5796.38 --> 5797.08] Christ as -[5797.08 --> 5797.48] Lord, -[5797.84 --> 5798.84] raised from -[5798.84 --> 5799.24] the dead, -[5799.48 --> 5800.00] as Jesus -[5800.00 --> 5800.64] Christ having -[5800.64 --> 5801.10] lived the -[5801.10 --> 5801.64] life I should -[5801.64 --> 5801.96] have lived -[5801.96 --> 5802.44] and dying -[5802.44 --> 5802.82] the death -[5802.82 --> 5803.10] that I -[5803.10 --> 5803.46] deserve, -[5803.70 --> 5804.30] as Jesus -[5804.30 --> 5804.76] Christ, -[5804.86 --> 5805.60] as Lord -[5805.60 --> 5806.16] over all -[5806.16 --> 5806.74] creation, -[5807.16 --> 5807.76] proclaiming -[5807.76 --> 5808.74] that truth -[5808.74 --> 5809.44] to the -[5809.44 --> 5809.76] world, -[5809.76 --> 5810.86] so that by -[5810.86 --> 5811.44] grace through -[5811.44 --> 5811.92] faith, -[5812.60 --> 5813.52] people might -[5813.52 --> 5814.48] know and -[5814.48 --> 5815.00] be saved. -[5815.66 --> 5817.18] This undergirds -[5817.18 --> 5818.16] our call to -[5818.16 --> 5819.08] mission that -[5819.08 --> 5819.56] the fullness -[5819.56 --> 5820.64] of Gentiles -[5820.64 --> 5821.88] and all -[5821.88 --> 5823.30] Israel might -[5823.30 --> 5824.34] believe. -[5825.12 --> 5826.24] This is -[5826.24 --> 5827.74] your call. -[5828.20 --> 5829.20] This is your -[5829.20 --> 5829.68] comfort, -[5830.02 --> 5830.66] this is your -[5830.66 --> 5831.02] care, -[5831.02 --> 5831.78] and this -[5831.78 --> 5832.38] is your -[5832.38 --> 5833.10] burden, -[5833.38 --> 5833.76] to go -[5833.76 --> 5834.68] forth and -[5834.68 --> 5835.74] proclaim the -[5835.74 --> 5836.84] gospel of -[5836.84 --> 5838.00] Jesus Christ. -[5838.90 --> 5839.60] No one -[5839.60 --> 5840.14] comes to -[5840.14 --> 5840.64] the Father -[5840.64 --> 5842.28] except through -[5842.28 --> 5843.08] him. -[5843.58 --> 5843.88] Amen? -[5844.64 --> 5845.50] Let's pray -[5845.50 --> 5845.82] together. -[5848.42 --> 5850.08] Lord Jesus, -[5850.58 --> 5852.00] our God. -[5852.38 --> 5853.20] Lord Jesus, -[5853.86 --> 5854.68] our Savior. -[5854.92 --> 5855.58] Lord Jesus, -[5855.92 --> 5857.20] our Messiah. -[5857.48 --> 5858.44] Lord Jesus, -[5858.44 --> 5860.26] our brother -[5860.26 --> 5861.14] and friend, -[5862.64 --> 5864.20] send us out -[5864.20 --> 5865.34] in the sure -[5865.34 --> 5866.74] conviction and -[5866.74 --> 5867.64] assurance that -[5867.64 --> 5868.96] nothing will -[5868.96 --> 5870.20] thwart God's -[5870.20 --> 5871.12] plan of -[5871.12 --> 5871.48] redemption. -[5872.84 --> 5873.80] Send us out -[5873.80 --> 5874.52] in the assurance -[5874.52 --> 5875.60] that the -[5875.60 --> 5876.18] Father has -[5876.18 --> 5876.90] given to you, -[5877.04 --> 5877.52] Lord Jesus, -[5877.72 --> 5878.92] all those whom -[5878.92 --> 5879.82] are written in -[5879.82 --> 5880.26] the book of -[5880.26 --> 5880.98] life, and you -[5880.98 --> 5882.08] will not lose -[5882.08 --> 5883.20] a single one. -[5883.20 --> 5886.06] send us out -[5886.06 --> 5887.34] with that -[5887.34 --> 5888.30] mission to -[5888.30 --> 5888.98] proclaim the -[5888.98 --> 5889.58] truth of the -[5889.58 --> 5890.56] gospel that -[5890.56 --> 5891.90] all might come -[5891.90 --> 5892.82] to see and -[5892.82 --> 5894.22] know who -[5894.22 --> 5894.82] you are, -[5895.40 --> 5896.04] what you have -[5896.04 --> 5896.90] done, what -[5896.90 --> 5897.76] you will do, -[5898.12 --> 5899.04] and how it -[5899.04 --> 5899.82] is that you -[5899.82 --> 5900.36] will carry -[5900.36 --> 5901.88] history through -[5901.88 --> 5903.12] to completion so -[5903.12 --> 5903.68] that in all -[5903.68 --> 5904.70] things you -[5904.70 --> 5905.64] might be -[5905.64 --> 5906.48] glorified. -[5907.04 --> 5907.74] In Jesus' -[5908.08 --> 5908.56] name we -[5908.56 --> 5908.88] pray. -[5909.52 --> 5909.92] Amen. -[5910.02 --> 5910.10] Amen. -[5910.10 --> 5911.10] Amen. -[5940.10 --> 5946.06] Always one can watch kimse -[5946.06 --> 5953.10] I dare not trust the strength wind -[5953.10 --> 5960.14] But only pure and Jesus car -[5963.70 --> 5968.98] Paul to fulfillment -[5969.64 --> 5974.18] When Jesus was in weit you see -[5974.18 --> 5980.96] How can I trust this água mere -[5981.92 --> 5989.24] The warning was Jesus' name -[5989.72 --> 5996.94] As your word vomited soul -[5996.94 --> 6003.84] We've been strong in Savior's love -[6003.84 --> 6014.76] Through the storm He is Lord, Lord of all -[6014.76 --> 6024.78] When God is singing to God His name -[6024.78 --> 6031.62] I rest on His own singing grace -[6031.62 --> 6038.14] In every highest glory day -[6038.14 --> 6043.92] My anger holds within the place -[6043.92 --> 6050.58] My anger holds within the place -[6050.58 --> 6059.18] Christ alone, waters full -[6059.18 --> 6065.74] We've been strong in Savior's love -[6065.74 --> 6075.42] Through the storm He is Lord, Lord of all -[6075.42 --> 6087.02] When He shall come with trumpet sound -[6087.02 --> 6093.14] Oh, may I then in Him be found -[6093.14 --> 6099.74] Dressed in His righteousness alone -[6099.74 --> 6106.54] Hold this stand before the throne -[6106.54 --> 6118.56] This in heaven with睡爸爸 -[6118.56 --> 6119.58] and in His name -[6119.58 --> 6120.18] At shoulder His nigh -[6120.18 --> 6150.16] Thank you. -[6150.18 --> 6180.16] Thank you. -[6180.18 --> 6210.16] Thank you. -[6210.18 --> 6240.16] Thank you. -[6240.16 --> 6242.16] Thank you. -[6270.16 --> 6272.16] Thank you. -[6300.16 --> 6301.82] Do not be afraid. -[6302.32 --> 6304.30] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[6304.58 --> 6305.94] Do not be afraid. -[6306.26 --> 6310.48] Go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[6310.48 --> 6311.92] Amen. -[6311.92 --> 6311.94] Amen. -[6311.94 --> 6313.94] Amen. -[6313.94 --> 6315.94] Amen. -[6315.94 --> 6333.46] Blessed be your name -[6333.46 --> 6337.14] In a land that is plentiful -[6337.14 --> 6341.38] Receive God abundant soul -[6341.38 --> 6343.30] Blessed be your name -[6343.30 --> 6349.38] Blessed be your name -[6349.38 --> 6353.30] For I'll be the desert place -[6353.30 --> 6357.22] For I'll walk through the wilderness -[6357.22 --> 6358.66] For I'll be the desert -[6358.66 --> 6365.70] Let me bless you for our love -[6365.70 --> 6369.14] Turn back to praise -[6369.14 --> 6373.62] When darkness closes in on -[6373.62 --> 6376.26] Still I will say -[6376.26 --> 6380.10] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[6380.10 --> 6383.22] Blessed be your name -[6383.22 --> 6388.10] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[6388.10 --> 6392.82] Blessed be your glory as to name -[6392.82 --> 6398.90] Blessed be your name -[6398.90 --> 6402.82] In the sun shining down on me -[6402.82 --> 6406.98] In the world's eyes it should be -[6406.98 --> 6408.98] Let's pray your name -[6408.98 --> 6414.74] Blessed be your name -[6414.74 --> 6418.58] For Lord my lips are for me -[6418.58 --> 6422.50] Let me pray in the honor of the Lord -[6422.50 --> 6424.66] Blessed be your name -[6424.66 --> 6430.58] And the blessing be forever -[6430.58 --> 6433.86] Turn back to praise -[6433.86 --> 6438.74] When the darkness closes in on -[6438.74 --> 6440.66] Still I will say -[6440.66 --> 6444.58] Blessed be the name of the Lord -[6444.58 --> 6457.62] Let me pray in the Son -[6457.62 --> 6460.98] Lord thank you for your name -[6460.98 --> 6461.58] I will say -[6461.58 --> 6463.22] To say -[6463.22 --> 6466.88] For I'll never shorten the way -[6466.88 --> 6468.34] How can choose to sing -[6468.34 --> 6469.62] Lord thank you for your name -[6469.62 --> 6485.38] I will choose to send you -[6485.38 --> 6499.60] I will choose to send you -[6499.62 --> 6529.60] I will choose to send you -[6529.62 --> 6559.60] I will choose to send you -[6559.60 --> 6589.58] I will choose to send you -[6589.58 --> 6619.56] I will choose to send you -[6619.56 --> 6649.54] I will choose to send you -[6649.54 --> 6679.52] I will choose to send you -[6679.52 --> 6709.50] I will choose to send you -[6709.52 --> 6739.50] Thank you. -[6739.52 --> 6769.50] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, January 26, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, January 26, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d8a062b10e32b805d327d58077d13289ea804dde..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, January 26, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,104 +0,0 @@ -• Identity and self-worth -• Miracles and hope in difficult times -• Inner conflict and self-doubt -• Reminders of love, strength, and identity -• Believing and trusting in a higher power's words about oneself -• Personal worth and identity -• Church announcements (Mexico Mission dinner, childcare services) -• Upcoming events at Emanuel (soup fellowship lunch, Neufelds fundraiser) -• Responsibilities and rules for childcare services -• The dollar is at a 10-year low, making the trip expensive -• Fundraising efforts need to be increased for general expenses -• Upcoming events mentioned: - + Dinner/auction fundraiser - + Membership project with survey - + HCBC and Adult Education Reading Group after lunch today - + Leading worship at Sunridge Gardens next Saturday - + Coldest Night of the Year walk on February 22nd -• Worship announcements, including passing the peace and the call to worship from Psalm 24 -• Worshiping God with joyful sound and praising Him as holy -• The attributes of Jesus: the one who was, is, and is to come -• Praise and worship as a way to connect with God in heaven -• Recognizing the limitations of human understanding and reliance on faith -• Overcoming fear, guilt, shame, and anxiety through trust in God's love -• Confession and prayer for mercy and forgiveness -• The speaker expresses longing to know God and asks for mercy -• A passage from Romans 8:35-39 is referenced as a source of comfort and assurance -• The speaker affirms that nothing can separate us from God's love in Christ Jesus -• The Bible is referred to as the word of God, and its truth and glory are celebrated -• Faith alone is emphasized as the means of coming to God and being justified -• The speaker expresses gratitude for God's promises and salvation through faith -• A deacon gives a brief announcement about a special offering for Gateway and explains how people can give -• A hymn or song is sung, celebrating God's ability, power, and presence in our lives. -• The speaker invites kids to join them at the front before children's worship time. -• The speaker jokes about Hank being absent and uses a loud call-out to locate him. -• A story is announced about Jesus turning water into wine at a wedding. -• The speaker makes humorous remarks about their inability to have wine or lemonade due to allergies. -• The speaker leads a prayer for the group, thanking God for the day and asking for learning opportunities. -• An announcement is made about a new baby in the church community, Daniel and Ismay Howling's son Jed. -• Prayer for those with stage four cancer -• Prayers for strength and healing for others battling depression, anxiety, and addiction -• Birth announcement of Jed Wolfe Howling -• Request for Pastor Chris's message to be impactful -• Gratitude for blessings and guidance from God -• Beginning of a new section in the Thessalonians series -• Discussion on hearing God's voice through preaching -• The Thessalonian church's faithfulness to the gospel is a source of encouragement and gratitude for Paul. -• Practicing gratitude is seen as an antidote to grumbling and complaining. -• Gratitude transforms one's perspective, opening their minds to what is possible in the present circumstances. -• God's word is at work in believers, transforming their lives. -• Gratitude should be regularly expressed, even in everyday life, such as during prayer. -• Seeing God at work in circumstances and trusting in his goodness -• Practicing gratitude to counteract grumbling attitudes -• The role of the preached word of God in bringing salvation and faith -• The importance of humility and willingness for preachers to be used by God to speak his voice -• Recognizing that even average or mediocre preachers can be vessels for God's message -• Understanding that there is always a word of God available for individuals, regardless of the preacher's abilities -• The Swiss Reformed churches emphasize the importance of preaching as the word of God -• The Heidelberg Catechism explains that preaching is one of the keys to the kingdom, opening heaven to believers by faith -• John Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion and Thomas Aquinas' sermon on Pentecost highlight the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in preaching -• Church fathers such as Augustine and Irenaeus emphasize the role of preaching in conveying God's word to His people throughout history -• Preaching is seen as a means by which God speaks to humanity, both orally and through tradition and scripture -• The Word of God took on flesh in the person of Jesus Christ -• The miracle of incarnation continues to be worked out as we gather together under the Word -• Paul commissioned Timothy and Titus to hold out the Word of life -• The early church expressed the teaching and tradition of the apostles through written forms, such as letters (e.g. Paul's letters, John, Peter, James, Hebrews, Revelation) -• The oral ministry of the Word of God continues through ministers and theologians today -• The only way to know the Word of God spoken orally is by testing it against the record of Scripture in its written form -• The written Word of God is the infallible rule for life and faith, which must be tested against the spoken words of God -• The importance of testing oral teachings against written scripture to ensure their truth. -• The infallibility of Scripture is connected to the character of God who speaks through it. -• Trust in the Bible comes from trusting a trustworthy God who always speaks truth. -• Identifying the "living voice of God" requires confirming words with Scripture and testing them by the Spirit. -• Transformation of lives, becoming imitators of Christ and mature disciples, is evidence that a message is from God. -• Paul uses the early Christians in Judea as an example of discipleship, which involves suffering for one's faith. -• Suffering for the gospel is a sign of transformation by it. -• The author emphasizes that being called strange or weird due to Christian faith is actually a proof of its truth. -• Practical steps are discussed on how to transform hearing and being transformed by it. -• Key points include rejoicing in suffering, God's work being real, and his voice speaking in one's life. -• Importance of prayer before worship -• Hearing the infallible word of God and having it align with one's heart's desires -• Practicing scripture, specifically James, to not only be hearers but doers -• Striving against grumbling and replacing it with gratitude -• Living lives of obedience to what the Lord has called us to do -• Preaching the gospel to others -• Taking the gospel from Sunday and applying it to daily life -• Partaking in the sacraments and means of God's presence -• Hearing and participating in the voice of God through word and living faith -• Changing one's approach to worship and participation, moving from receiver/consumer to participant/experiencer -• Participating in worship and hearing from God -• Preparation for preaching and listening to others -• Hearing the living voice of God -• Prayer to have meditations transformed into God's own words -• Planting and growing faith, bearing fruit in one's life -• Longing for a personal presence and love -• Desire to be in a relationship with God -• Confession of sin and need for forgiveness -• Worship and praise of God's greatness -• Invitation to meet someone for prayer -• Reflection on where God is seen at work in one's life -• Worship songs and hymns, including "We Praise Thee" and "Hallelujah" -• Prayers for revival and spiritual renewal -• Praise of God's love and salvation through Jesus Christ -• Requests for the filling of hearts with God's love and fire from above -• Repeated expressions of gratitude ("Thank you") \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, January 26, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, January 26, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 741d0bee9a188e3f045acfd01505f6a72a88963b..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, January 26, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1766 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 2.12] Who we made you to be -[2.12 --> 5.00] And live like you're loved -[5.00 --> 9.18] Live like you're loved -[10.26 --> 12.26] Live like you're loved -[12.26 --> 17.26] Live like you're loved -[18.26 --> 20.12] Live like you're loved -[20.12 --> 22.14] Walk like you're free -[22.14 --> 23.94] Stay like you know -[23.94 --> 26.08] Who we made you to be -[26.08 --> 28.10] Live like you're loved -[28.10 --> 29.90] Like you're alive -[29.90 --> 34.12] His love is all that you'll ever need -[34.12 --> 37.28] So go ahead and live like you're left -[37.28 --> 45.32] His love has made you more than enough -[45.32 --> 53.28] So go ahead and live like you're left -[53.28 --> 57.92] It's okay to act like you've been set free -[57.92 --> 61.62] His love has made you more than enough -[61.62 --> 66.14] So go ahead and be who he made you to be -[66.14 --> 68.02] And live like you're left -[68.02 --> 72.10] Live like you're left -[72.10 --> 76.08] Live like you're left -[76.08 --> 80.24] Live like you're left -[80.24 --> 84.16] Live like you're left -[84.16 --> 86.08] Walk like you're free -[86.08 --> 90.10] Stare like you know who he made you to be -[90.10 --> 92.22] Live like you're left -[92.22 --> 94.18] Like you believe -[94.18 --> 98.14] His love is all that you'll ever need -[98.14 --> 100.08] Live like you're left -[100.08 --> 110.04] When you're at the end of the road -[110.04 --> 114.14] And it's not the one that you would have chosen -[114.14 --> 118.20] When you're at the end of the road -[118.20 --> 120.28] When you're at the end of the road -[120.28 --> 122.20] When you're at the end of the road -[122.20 --> 126.20] And it's not the one that you would have chosen -[126.20 --> 128.20] When you're at the end of your road -[128.20 --> 130.20] And you're holding on -[130.20 --> 132.20] But feel like you're falling -[132.20 --> 134.20] With every option exhausted -[134.20 --> 142.16] You tried everything you know -[142.16 --> 146.16] You saw light then you lost it -[146.16 --> 149.20] But there is still hope -[149.20 --> 153.20] Like the fire in the night -[153.20 --> 157.20] Like the ocean parted wide -[157.20 --> 161.20] Like the grave empty inside -[161.20 --> 163.20] You will see -[163.20 --> 165.20] He still does -[165.20 --> 167.20] You will see -[167.20 --> 168.20] Miracles -[168.20 --> 169.20] Miracles -[169.20 --> 170.20] Miracles -[170.20 --> 171.20] Miracles -[171.20 --> 173.20] Miracles -[173.20 --> 177.20] Even if you don't see it now -[177.20 --> 179.20] Without a doubt -[179.20 --> 181.20] He's already moving -[181.20 --> 183.20] There's not a pain that you hold -[183.20 --> 185.20] He doesn't know -[185.20 --> 186.20] He doesn't know -[186.20 --> 189.20] And he isn't using -[189.20 --> 192.20] With every option exhausted -[192.20 --> 196.20] You tried everything you know -[196.20 --> 199.20] So reach for something beyond it -[199.20 --> 202.20] Cause he is our hope -[202.20 --> 206.20] Like the fire in the night -[206.20 --> 209.20] Like the ocean parted wide -[209.20 --> 211.20] Like the grave empty inside -[211.20 --> 213.20] You will see -[213.20 --> 215.20] He still does -[215.20 --> 217.20] Miracles -[217.20 --> 219.20] Miracles -[219.20 --> 221.20] Miracles -[221.20 --> 223.20] Miracles -[223.20 --> 225.20] Miracles -[225.20 --> 227.20] Miracles -[227.20 --> 229.20] Miracles -[229.20 --> 231.20] Miracles -[231.20 --> 233.20] Miracles -[233.20 --> 235.20] Miracles -[235.20 --> 237.20] Miracles -[237.20 --> 239.20] A broken heart can be restored -[239.20 --> 241.20] A broken soul can be reborn -[241.20 --> 242.20] A broken soul can be reborn -[242.20 --> 243.20] A broken soul can be reborn -[243.20 --> 244.20] A broken soul can be reborn -[245.20 --> 248.20] And greater things are still in store -[248.20 --> 249.20] For us -[249.20 --> 250.20] For us -[250.20 --> 257.20] Like the fire in the night -[257.20 --> 261.20] Like the ocean parted wide -[261.20 --> 264.20] Like the grave empty inside -[264.20 --> 267.20] You will see -[267.20 --> 274.20] He still does miracles -[274.20 --> 284.20] He still does -[284.20 --> 289.20] You're the broken dead dream -[289.20 --> 293.20] More than you ever see -[293.20 --> 298.20] Destin-a, destin-a -[298.20 --> 302.20] Miracles -[323.20 --> 332.20] I keep fighting voices in my mind that say I'm not enough -[332.20 --> 341.20] Every single lie that tells me I will never measure up -[341.20 --> 347.20] Every single lie that tells me I will never measure up -[347.20 --> 356.20] Every single lie that tells me I will never measure up -[356.20 --> 362.20] Am I more than just the sum of every high and every low -[362.20 --> 371.20] Am I more than just the sum of every high and every low -[374.20 --> 383.20] Remind me once again just who I am because I need to know -[383.20 --> 386.20] Ooh, oh -[386.20 --> 392.20] You say I am loved when I can't feel a thing -[392.20 --> 398.20] You say I am strong when I think I am weak -[398.20 --> 404.20] And you say I am held when I am falling short -[405.20 --> 411.20] And when I don't belong, oh, you say I am yours -[412.20 --> 414.20] And I believe -[414.20 --> 415.20] I -[415.20 --> 417.20] Oh, I believe -[417.20 --> 418.20] I -[418.20 --> 419.20] I -[419.20 --> 421.20] What you say of me -[421.20 --> 422.20] I -[422.20 --> 423.20] I -[423.20 --> 424.20] I believe -[424.20 --> 431.20] The only thing that matters now is everything you think of me -[431.20 --> 434.20] You -[434.20 --> 435.20] And -[435.20 --> 442.20] You -[442.20 --> 443.20] You -[443.20 --> 444.20] I -[444.20 --> 445.20] You -[445.20 --> 446.20] You -[446.20 --> 447.20] I -[447.20 --> 448.20] I -[448.20 --> 449.20] You -[449.20 --> 450.20] I -[450.20 --> 451.20] I -[451.20 --> 452.20] I -[452.20 --> 454.20] I -[454.20 --> 455.20] My -[455.20 --> 456.20] I -[456.20 --> 457.20] I -[457.20 --> 458.20] I -[458.20 --> 463.20] You say I am strong when I think I am weak. -[464.20 --> 469.20] And you say I am held when I am falling short. -[470.20 --> 473.20] When I don't belong. -[474.20 --> 476.20] Oh, you say I am yours. -[477.20 --> 486.20] And I believe, oh, I believe what you say of me. -[486.20 --> 489.20] Oh, I believe. -[494.20 --> 503.20] Taking all I have and now I'm laying it at your feet. -[507.20 --> 514.20] You'll have every failure, God. You'll have every victory. -[516.20 --> 524.20] Oh, you say I am loved when I can't feel a thing. -[525.20 --> 531.20] You say I am strong when I think I am weak. -[532.20 --> 537.20] You say I am held when I am falling short. -[537.20 --> 541.20] You say I am good when I don't belong. -[541.20 --> 544.20] Oh, you say I am yours. -[545.20 --> 547.20] And I believe. -[547.20 --> 550.20] Good morning. -[553.20 --> 555.20] Welcome to church this morning. -[555.20 --> 559.20] A special welcome if you are a guest here. -[560.20 --> 562.20] We are really grateful to have you here with us. -[562.20 --> 563.20] My name is Chris. -[563.20 --> 565.20] I am one of the pastors here at Emanuel. -[565.20 --> 572.20] And it's my privilege to lead in our shared worship this morning along with these others that you see on stage. -[572.20 --> 575.20] Before we begin this morning, we've got a couple of announcements to make. -[575.20 --> 578.20] And so I'm going to invite Brandon up to the front. -[578.20 --> 580.20] He's going to make one for Mexico Mission. -[581.20 --> 592.20] And while he's on his way up, just want to remind you that after worship today, we are sticking around and everyone is invited to soup fellowship lunch. -[592.20 --> 594.20] And so that's going to happen here. -[594.20 --> 604.20] And so at some point as we are transitioning from coffee to soup, it would be really grateful if these two sections of chairs could be just cleaned up and kind of pushed to the side. -[604.20 --> 607.20] And that way we could put tables out here for people to sit at. -[607.20 --> 609.20] But we think this will be enough. -[610.20 --> 614.20] And so the reconstruction after will be easy if we limit ourselves to here. -[614.20 --> 618.20] So anyways, please stick around for that following our worship today. -[618.20 --> 619.20] Soup and some buns and the like. -[619.20 --> 620.20] Brandon, go ahead. -[620.20 --> 624.20] So yeah, just an announcement again for the Mexico dinner. -[624.20 --> 627.20] Sign up went out, I believe it was yesterday for the e-sign up. -[627.20 --> 630.20] We'll have a paper sign up at the back desk there as well. -[630.20 --> 634.20] Cost is $30 for an adult, $15 for a kid 12 and under. -[634.20 --> 637.20] Even though now I have my own kids, I realize they eat more than adults. -[637.20 --> 639.20] Probably should charge double. -[639.20 --> 642.20] Beyond that, doors open at 5.30. -[642.20 --> 647.20] There will be dessert auction as well as a mystery auction that I think you guys will like as well. -[647.20 --> 651.20] And then we also knew this year we kind of want to just go over is childcare. -[651.20 --> 652.20] We are going to offer childcare. -[652.20 --> 655.20] I know a lot of you guys have to get babysitters to come. -[655.20 --> 660.20] Instead of paying your babysitter, just you can pay us, which would be great. -[660.20 --> 661.20] There's a couple caveats of that. -[661.20 --> 665.20] So it will be operating off kind of like nursery rules like diapers, things like that. -[665.20 --> 666.20] We won't do. -[666.20 --> 667.20] We'll come get you guys for. -[667.20 --> 672.20] The other thing is, again, having my own kids and friends with kids realizing everybody eats something different. -[672.20 --> 679.20] If your kid is not going to eat the dinner itself and you would like them to eat something else, you must bring that. -[679.20 --> 684.20] We're not going to make a separate meal for little kids like this and stuff like that. -[684.20 --> 686.20] We will feed it to them if you like. -[686.20 --> 691.20] Again, we would take no responsibility if they end up with more of the dinner on them than they ate. -[691.20 --> 694.20] But that is, we will take care of that if you do bring that dinner. -[694.20 --> 697.20] If not, they're free to come in here and eat dinner with you guys and then you're sick of them after that. -[697.20 --> 700.20] You can send them to us, whatever you kind of like. -[700.20 --> 702.20] And there's no age limit on it. -[702.20 --> 705.20] So if you want to get rid of your 21-year-old kid, we'll take them as well. -[705.20 --> 708.20] So yeah, that's about it for that. -[708.20 --> 712.20] And the last thing is just we also have the Neufelds fundraiser starting the week after. -[712.20 --> 717.20] So for all you guys that hoard a whole lot of chicken, stuff like that, wait to buy that, buy it from us. -[717.20 --> 720.20] Neufelds is great prices, helps the kids, helps the trip. -[720.20 --> 724.20] Especially this year, we kind of want to emphasize, unfortunately, the dollar sucks. -[724.20 --> 726.20] I think it's like a 10-year low. -[726.20 --> 728.20] It means this trip is going to be really expensive this year. -[728.20 --> 734.20] We kind of got to put fundraising efforts on the double, just even for the general pot for what we're doing down there. -[734.20 --> 737.20] So definitely come out for the dinner. -[737.20 --> 738.20] It's going to be a great time. -[738.20 --> 739.20] It's going to be a great auction. -[739.20 --> 742.20] Someone's going to come home with a beautiful prize that you're going to love. -[742.20 --> 745.20] And the Neufelds is great for just your everyday food. -[745.20 --> 747.20] So keep an eye on that. -[747.20 --> 750.20] Those will all be sent out in emails and things like that as well. -[750.20 --> 754.20] And then kids will be contacting you and bugging you nonstop for it. -[754.20 --> 756.20] So yeah, that's it. -[756.20 --> 758.20] Thanks, Brandon. -[758.20 --> 765.20] Also following worship today, not only will Brandon be at the back with the sign up for Mexico, -[765.20 --> 772.20] but Kevin will be at the back to help you with the membership project that's going on. -[772.20 --> 774.20] And so you may have heard from the office. -[774.20 --> 782.20] We've been trying to consolidate our various databases and clarify some internal systems. -[782.20 --> 788.20] Anyway, to do that and facilitate that, we've created this membership survey just to gather some information. -[788.20 --> 795.20] Kevin will be at the back desk or at the connect booth back there to help you through that if you need assistance with that. -[795.20 --> 798.20] There's also some QR codes back there that you can just scan with your phone. -[798.20 --> 800.20] It'll take you right to the form. -[800.20 --> 803.20] But if you need help with that, Kevin will be there. -[803.20 --> 811.20] HCBC and Adult Education Heidelberg Catechism Reading Group are after lunch today. -[811.20 --> 814.20] And so we're going to roll straight into that. -[814.20 --> 820.20] Next Saturday is our chance to lead worship at Sunridge Gardens up the hill. -[820.20 --> 822.20] And so that's 2 p.m. on Saturday. -[822.20 --> 824.20] If you want to join, you're invited to join. -[824.20 --> 827.20] You can talk to me for details on that. -[827.20 --> 830.20] And then lastly, February 22nd. -[830.20 --> 835.20] Now, I know that's a while off yet, but that's the coldest night of the year walk. -[835.20 --> 839.20] And so a number of us have participated in this in the past. -[839.20 --> 842.20] This is an excellent opportunity for young families. -[842.20 --> 845.20] There's a 2-kilometer and a 5-kilometer walk. -[845.20 --> 851.20] We start at Gateway of Hope over on the bypass and just kind of walk through the downtown neighborhood -[851.20 --> 855.20] and come back to Gateway of Hope and have dinner with a group of people there. -[855.20 --> 858.20] We will be putting a team together for that again. -[858.20 --> 861.20] And so you can join the team or you can sponsor the team. -[861.20 --> 863.20] We would love to have you participate. -[863.20 --> 867.20] Details for that will be in the midweek memo as we go into this week as well. -[867.20 --> 870.20] As far as announcements go, I think that's it. -[870.20 --> 877.20] So I'm going to invite you to stand as you're able as we are gathered together in the presence of our good God. -[877.20 --> 889.20] We gather in God's presence and so we receive his greeting and then we pass that greeting on to those around us. -[889.20 --> 895.20] And so after I give you God's greeting, I invite you to turn to those around you and extend that greeting to them -[895.20 --> 900.20] by passing the peace of Christ or by saying the Lord be with you as we gather in worship together. -[900.20 --> 902.20] Receive the greeting of our God. -[902.20 --> 911.20] Grace, mercy, peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, Son and our Savior, -[911.20 --> 914.20] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[914.20 --> 916.20] Amen. -[919.20 --> 920.20] Amen. -[949.20 --> 968.20] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 24, verses 7 through 10. -[968.20 --> 969.20] The Lord is the Lord Almighty. -[969.20 --> 971.20] Lift up your heads, you gates. -[971.20 --> 976.20] Be lifted up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. -[976.20 --> 978.20] Who is the King of glory? -[978.20 --> 982.20] The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle. -[982.20 --> 984.20] Lift up your heads, you gates. -[984.20 --> 989.20] Lift them up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. -[989.20 --> 991.20] Who is this King of glory? -[991.20 --> 993.20] The Lord Almighty. -[993.20 --> 995.20] He is the King of glory. -[995.20 --> 996.20] The King of glory. -[996.20 --> 1002.20] The King of glory. -[1002.20 --> 1005.20] The King of glory. -[1005.20 --> 1007.20] My work. -[1007.20 --> 1008.20] Why, Father seen Him dull. -[1008.20 --> 1011.20] The King of glory it that He has made some joy. -[1011.20 --> 1012.20] Why, Father O Es Bit. -[1012.20 --> 1013.20] While those who Johns could worship Him. -[1013.20 --> 1014.20] The King of glory. -[1014.20 --> 1016.20] The King of glory. -[1016.20 --> 1019.20] weather like my world. -[1019.20 --> 1020.20] Yeah. -[1020.20 --> 1023.20] The King of glory, the King of glory. -[1023.20 --> 1034.30] There's a melody of ceaseless praise, as you wait, just the moon is all the good and stronger. -[1037.18 --> 1045.30] There's a throne beneath the name of names, there is seated on it one who reigns, -[1045.30 --> 1052.80] and His kingdom now is here and getting closer. -[1056.46 --> 1070.64] Praise Him like we're there in glory, here and now He's just as holy, Jesus, He's so worthy of it all. -[1070.64 --> 1082.84] He exists in everlasting light, so on heaven's streets there is no night. -[1083.38 --> 1089.88] Every tear is wiped away, we'll know no sorrow. -[1089.88 --> 1100.88] Worship Him with joyful sound, sing until your voice gives out. -[1101.72 --> 1107.88] No matter where, or who's around, release your worship. -[1107.88 --> 1125.88] Praise Him like we're there in glory, here and now He's just as holy, Jesus, He's so worthy of it all. -[1125.88 --> 1144.76] Bring your song, He loves to hear it, bring Him every prayer so clear it, Jesus, He's so worthy of it all. -[1144.76 --> 1156.76] The one who was, the one who is, the one who is to come. -[1156.76 --> 1175.76] The one who was, the one who is, the one who is to come. -[1175.76 --> 1184.76] The one who was, the one who is to come. -[1185.76 --> 1199.76] Praise Him like we're there in glory, here and now He's just as holy, Jesus, He's so worthy of it all. -[1199.76 --> 1229.74] The one who was, the one who is, the one who is to come. -[1229.74 --> 1239.74] The one who was, the one who is, the one who is to come. -[1239.74 --> 1246.74] The one who was, the one who was, the one who is to come. -[1246.74 --> 1258.74] The one who was, the one who was, the one who was to come. -[1258.74 --> 1263.74] The one who is, the one who is to come. -[1263.74 --> 1267.74] The one who was, the one who was to come. -[1267.74 --> 1268.74] The one who was, the one who is to come. -[1268.74 --> 1270.74] Amen. -[1298.74 --> 1300.74] Amen. -[1328.74 --> 1330.74] Amen. -[1358.74 --> 1360.74] Amen. -[1388.74 --> 1389.74] Amen. -[1418.74 --> 1420.74] Amen. -[1448.74 --> 1450.74] Amen. -[1450.74 --> 1452.74] Amen. -[1452.74 --> 1454.74] Amen. -[1454.74 --> 1456.74] Amen. -[1456.74 --> 1458.74] Amen. -[1458.74 --> 1460.74] Amen. -[1460.74 --> 1462.74] Amen. -[1462.74 --> 1464.74] Amen. -[1464.74 --> 1470.74] Who else could rescue me from my failing? -[1470.74 --> 1476.74] Who else would offer his only son? -[1476.74 --> 1482.74] Who else invites me to call him Father? -[1482.74 --> 1486.74] Only a holy God. -[1486.74 --> 1492.74] Only my holy God. -[1492.74 --> 1501.74] Come and behold him, the one and the only. -[1501.74 --> 1509.74] Cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[1509.74 --> 1513.74] And worship the holy God. -[1513.74 --> 1523.74] Come and behold him, the one and the only. -[1523.74 --> 1531.74] Cry out, sing holy, forever a holy God. -[1531.74 --> 1535.74] Come and worship the holy God. -[1535.74 --> 1537.74] Amen. -[1537.74 --> 1547.74] You may have a seat. -[1547.74 --> 1553.74] Pastor Chris will be preaching on transformation this morning. -[1553.74 --> 1565.74] And while reflecting on that this week as I worked through planning this service, I wondered what hinders us from being fully transformed as believers. -[1565.74 --> 1571.74] What holds us back from truly living in the abundant life that he has for us? -[1571.74 --> 1575.74] For some of us, it might be guilt. -[1575.74 --> 1576.74] For some it might be shame. -[1576.74 --> 1579.74] It might be addiction, selfishness. -[1579.74 --> 1583.74] For me, I've come to realize that it's fear. -[1583.74 --> 1596.74] Three weeks after Eric and I got married, we tragically lost a dear friend of ours, Kirk, who was the best man in our wedding. -[1596.74 --> 1602.74] And many of you here remember that loss and we all grieved together. -[1602.74 --> 1609.74] It was an incredibly difficult time and one that knocked us off our feet. -[1609.74 --> 1611.74] And we asked God why. -[1611.74 --> 1615.74] And it really tested us as a recently married couple. -[1615.74 --> 1618.74] And it was an even truer test of our faith. -[1618.74 --> 1629.74] But I've realized that experiencing these types of unexpected circumstances over the years has caused me to live in the fear of bad news. -[1629.74 --> 1638.74] I still have moments of feeling paralyzed by fear and the lack of control over what will happen in my life or in the lives of those I love. -[1638.74 --> 1644.74] And I often think about these things and how life has been relatively good these last number of years. -[1644.74 --> 1650.74] And so I almost expect a sudden loss or a heartache to come our way again. -[1650.74 --> 1655.74] But living in fear is not what God desires for us. -[1655.74 --> 1665.74] Nor does he want any of us to be stuck in guilt or shame or anxiety or selfishness, whatever that is for you. -[1665.74 --> 1673.74] God calls us to trust in his unfailing love as the Psalms remind us again and again. -[1673.74 --> 1678.74] And this is when transformation can begin. -[1678.74 --> 1686.74] So please stand with us as we confess this together by singing the song, Lord Have Mercy. -[1686.74 --> 1707.74] Let's pray. -[1707.74 --> 1716.24] Jesus, I've forgotten the words that you have spoken. -[1717.54 --> 1723.76] Promises that burn within my heart of Calvary. -[1723.76 --> 1733.60] With a doubting heart I follow the paths of earthly wisdom. -[1733.60 --> 1742.94] Give me for my unbelief, renew the fire again. -[1744.94 --> 1752.72] Lord, have mercy, Christ have mercy. -[1752.72 --> 1760.72] Lord, have mercy on Thee. -[1760.72 --> 1769.06] Lord, have mercy, Christ have mercy. -[1769.06 --> 1777.50] Lord, have mercy on Thee. -[1777.50 --> 1787.84] I have built an altar where I worship things of them. -[1787.84 --> 1795.90] I have taken journeys that have drawn me far from You. -[1797.18 --> 1804.56] Now I am returning to Your mercies ever-flowing. -[1805.92 --> 1812.84] Pardon my transgressions, help me love You again. -[1812.84 --> 1822.18] Lord, have mercy, Christ have mercy. -[1822.18 --> 1830.52] Lord, have mercy on Thee. -[1830.52 --> 1839.10] Lord, have mercy, Christ have mercy. -[1839.10 --> 1846.74] Lord, have mercy on Thee. -[1846.74 --> 1853.08] I have longed to know You. -[1853.08 --> 1865.02] And all Your tender mercies, like a river of forgiveness, ever flowing without end. -[1865.02 --> 1869.36] So I bow my heart before You. -[1869.36 --> 1873.36] In the goodness of Your presence. -[1873.36 --> 1881.70] The grace of grace, the grace forever shining, like a beacon in the night. -[1881.70 --> 1888.04] Lord, have mercy on Thee. -[1888.04 --> 1890.04] Lord, have mercy on Thee. -[1890.04 --> 1896.04] Lord, have mercy on Thee. -[1896.04 --> 1904.38] Lord, have mercy on Thee. -[1904.38 --> 1908.38] Lord, have mercy on Thee. -[1908.38 --> 1916.46] Lord, have mercy on Thee. -[1916.46 --> 1928.80] Lord, have mercy on Thee. -[1928.80 --> 1938.14] Lord, have mercy on Thee. -[1938.14 --> 1943.14] Lord, have mercy on Thee. -[1943.14 --> 1951.22] Lord, have mercy on Thee. -[1951.22 --> 1954.56] Lord, have mercy on Thee. -[1954.56 --> 1960.52] Our assurance this morning comes from Romans 8, 35 to 39, which is the passage that Pastor -[1960.52 --> 1963.50] Ed at the time preached at Kirk's funeral. -[1963.50 --> 1966.28] And so we can find comfort and assurance in these words. -[1967.64 --> 1971.38] Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? -[1971.88 --> 1977.10] Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? -[1977.10 --> 1982.00] Lord, as it is written, for Your sake we face death all day long. -[1982.00 --> 1985.00] We are considered as sheep to be slaughtered. -[1985.00 --> 1989.88] Knowing all these things, we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. -[1989.88 --> 1994.72] For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the -[1994.72 --> 2000.22] present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in creation -[2000.22 --> 2007.30] will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. -[2007.30 --> 2011.88] with His word. -[2011.90 --> 2024.64] myślę -[2028.52 --> 2030.96] Your word of hepatitis -[2030.96 --> 2037.78] The mighty rock on which we build -[2037.78 --> 2042.96] In every line that truth is found -[2042.96 --> 2048.96] And every page with glory filled -[2048.96 --> 2055.82] Through faith alone we come to you -[2055.82 --> 2061.34] We have no merit we can claim -[2061.34 --> 2066.56] Sure that your promises are true -[2066.56 --> 2072.12] We place our hope in Jesus' name -[2072.12 --> 2076.18] Gloria, Gloria -[2076.18 --> 2082.12] Glory to God alone -[2082.12 --> 2086.50] Gloria, Gloria -[2086.50 --> 2092.44] Glory to God alone -[2092.44 --> 2104.92] In Christ alone we're justified -[2104.92 --> 2110.46] His righteousness is all our plea -[2110.46 --> 2115.98] Your lofty lands are satisfied -[2115.98 --> 2120.84] His perfect word has set us free -[2120.84 --> 2125.48] Gloria, Gloria -[2125.48 --> 2130.84] Glory to God alone -[2130.84 --> 2136.24] Gloria, Gloria -[2136.24 --> 2141.22] Glory to God alone -[2141.22 --> 2155.08] By grace alone we have been saved -[2155.08 --> 2160.20] All that we are has come from you -[2160.20 --> 2165.92] Hearts that were once by sin enslaved -[2165.92 --> 2170.86] Now by your power have been anew -[2170.86 --> 2180.86] Gloria, Gloria, glory to God alone -[2180.86 --> 2190.86] Gloria, Gloria, glory to God alone -[2190.86 --> 2200.86] Gloria, Gloria, glory to God alone -[2200.86 --> 2212.86] Gloria, Gloria, glory to God alone -[2212.86 --> 2237.26] Good morning, everyone. -[2237.26 --> 2241.26] My name is Allison and I am one of the deacons here at the church. -[2241.26 --> 2247.26] This morning's special offering is for Gateway -[2247.26 --> 2250.26] just down the road and it was mentioned earlier today. -[2250.26 --> 2254.26] So it would be a great opportunity to check out what it's all about -[2254.26 --> 2262.26] to actually be part of the dinner that's going on after coldest night of the year. -[2262.26 --> 2266.26] They also do scheduled tours if you're interested in finding out more -[2266.26 --> 2274.26] about the many, many, many people and the things that they do for people who are on the street, -[2274.26 --> 2279.26] who need food, who need shelter, and general help. -[2279.26 --> 2283.26] They do an awful lot in our community for some very precious people. -[2283.26 --> 2288.26] So that is what we're supporting this morning. -[2288.26 --> 2290.26] There are many ways to give. -[2290.26 --> 2297.26] Check, cash, check out our website for electronic ways to give as well. -[2297.26 --> 2298.26] Thank you. -[2298.26 --> 2299.26] Thank you. -[2299.26 --> 2304.26] Thank you. -[2304.26 --> 2324.26] Thank you. -[2324.26 --> 2334.64] He is able, He will never fail, He is almighty God. -[2335.64 --> 2346.26] Greater than all we see, greater than all we ask, He has done great things. -[2346.26 --> 2357.96] Lifted up, He defeated the grave, Raised to life, our God is able. -[2359.06 --> 2369.84] In His name we overcome, For our Lord, our God is able. -[2376.26 --> 2393.74] God is with us, God is on our side, He will make the way. -[2393.74 --> 2405.74] For above all we know, For above all we hope, He has done great things. -[2406.68 --> 2416.74] Lifted up, He defeated the grave, Raised to life, our God is able. -[2416.74 --> 2428.74] In His name we overcome, For the Lord, our God is able. -[2428.74 --> 2446.74] For the Lord, our God is with us, He will go before. -[2446.74 --> 2452.78] He will never leave us, He will never leave us. -[2453.00 --> 2460.74] God is for us, He has opened us, He will never fail us. -[2461.58 --> 2465.96] He will never fail us, He lifted up. -[2466.74 --> 2475.16] He defeated the grave, Raised to life, our God is able. -[2475.16 --> 2505.14] In His name we overcome. -[2505.14 --> 2509.50] For the Lord, our God is able. -[2509.50 --> 2515.22] For the Lord, our God is able. -[2515.22 --> 2521.04] For the Lord, our God is able. -[2521.04 --> 2535.62] All right. -[2535.68 --> 2539.80] I would love to invite all of the kids to come down and join me up here at the front -[2539.80 --> 2541.68] before we head off into children's worship time. -[2541.68 --> 2543.86] So come on forward. -[2543.86 --> 2543.92] Here everyone comes. -[2543.92 --> 2555.76] Here everyone comes. -[2555.76 --> 2555.92] Here everyone comes. -[2555.92 --> 2558.52] Good morning, everybody. -[2558.52 --> 2560.76] How's everybody doing? -[2560.76 --> 2563.38] Where is Hank? -[2564.38 --> 2565.92] I think, you know what I think you need to do? -[2565.98 --> 2566.72] I don't think so. -[2567.90 --> 2568.16] Nope. -[2568.16 --> 2572.78] I think if you all said, Hank, where are you? -[2572.78 --> 2573.98] He might show up. -[2573.98 --> 2575.00] Do you think that's true? -[2575.66 --> 2576.00] All right. -[2576.20 --> 2577.22] You have to do it nice and loud. -[2577.28 --> 2577.66] Are you ready? -[2578.16 --> 2579.72] One, two, three. -[2579.72 --> 2585.72] Here he is. -[2586.54 --> 2588.04] What a rush. -[2589.00 --> 2589.48] Wow. -[2589.76 --> 2592.46] What an exciting entrance that was logistically. -[2593.86 --> 2594.58] All right. -[2595.20 --> 2598.98] We are going to talk about something pretty cool today in children's worship time, Hank. -[2599.08 --> 2599.96] What is that? -[2599.96 --> 2604.54] Well, I have a question, and this is a little bit of a silly question. -[2605.42 --> 2607.18] How many of you have ever had wine? -[2609.12 --> 2610.14] No, that's good. -[2610.18 --> 2611.64] I don't want to out any of your parents. -[2612.02 --> 2613.14] That's an adult drink. -[2613.24 --> 2614.80] Yeah, I'm not even allowed it. -[2614.90 --> 2615.40] You're not? -[2615.70 --> 2615.98] Nope. -[2616.22 --> 2617.18] Allergic to grapes. -[2617.54 --> 2617.92] Oh, yeah. -[2617.96 --> 2618.86] That's true, I guess, eh? -[2619.04 --> 2619.36] Mm-hmm. -[2620.18 --> 2626.76] Well, we are going to hear a story about a wedding that Jesus went to where he turned water, -[2626.76 --> 2629.60] Mm-hmm, water, into wine. -[2629.98 --> 2630.54] Blech. -[2632.50 --> 2633.76] Does that sound kind of fun? -[2634.50 --> 2634.94] Yeah? -[2635.44 --> 2636.62] Is that all you got? -[2636.92 --> 2637.44] What do you mean? -[2637.74 --> 2639.02] Usually you talk longer. -[2639.44 --> 2640.66] That's all I have today, Hank. -[2641.22 --> 2641.56] Hmm. -[2641.82 --> 2644.44] You know what they say, when life gives you lemons, make lemonade. -[2644.92 --> 2646.42] I'm not allowed lemonade either. -[2647.16 --> 2647.44] Oh. -[2647.76 --> 2648.60] Too much sugar. -[2649.12 --> 2650.08] I'm a dog. -[2650.88 --> 2651.30] All right. -[2653.22 --> 2655.64] I am watching the stickball team still. -[2655.64 --> 2659.22] So we're going to pray, and then we're going to go off to children's worship time, okay? -[2659.38 --> 2659.78] Are you ready? -[2659.88 --> 2660.26] Let's pray. -[2660.62 --> 2661.82] Dear God, thank you so much for this day. -[2661.90 --> 2665.72] Thank you that we could gather together here in this place, and that we could worship you. -[2665.88 --> 2668.90] And we pray now, God, as we head off to children's worship time, and as the adults -[2668.90 --> 2672.64] stay back here for church, Lord, and listen to Pastor Chris, we pray that we will learn -[2672.64 --> 2674.64] more about you and your kingdom today. -[2674.78 --> 2675.72] We pray this in your name. -[2676.20 --> 2676.52] Amen. -[2676.74 --> 2677.44] Okay, let's stand up. -[2677.48 --> 2678.20] We're going to do the blessing. -[2678.84 --> 2679.90] All right, so turn around. -[2681.14 --> 2683.18] On the count of three, we're going to say, the Lord be with you. -[2683.18 --> 2683.64] Are you ready? -[2683.64 --> 2685.14] One, two, three. -[2685.14 --> 2687.40] The Lord be with you. -[2688.00 --> 2688.40] Amen. -[2708.50 --> 2708.98] Hello. -[2709.36 --> 2713.22] My name is Allie Stam, and I'm going to be leading us in our church family prayer today. -[2713.70 --> 2715.54] Before we pray, I have an announcement. -[2716.32 --> 2719.22] Daniel and Ismay Howling had their baby Saturday morning. -[2720.10 --> 2723.16] Jed Wolf Howling was born weighing eight pounds and ten ounces. -[2723.62 --> 2727.98] Mom and everyone are doing really well, and there will be a meal train link for people -[2727.98 --> 2729.94] to provide meals for them coming soon. -[2730.28 --> 2732.60] Look in the e-bulletin or on the Facebook group for that. -[2733.24 --> 2733.84] Let's pray. -[2733.84 --> 2738.96] Dear Lord, thank you for bringing us all here today. -[2739.30 --> 2741.48] Thank you that we can gather together as a community. -[2741.96 --> 2746.30] We often take for granted that we are able to meet together and celebrate our faith as -[2746.30 --> 2747.00] often as we do. -[2747.70 --> 2752.74] I pray that we continue to celebrate our faith in whatever way we are able to make fit for -[2752.74 --> 2753.20] our lives. -[2753.20 --> 2758.06] As we meet together, I want to pray for all the members of our church community. -[2758.66 --> 2763.44] Specifically, I want to pray for the Wagener family, Elise Wagener's dad, who has been diagnosed -[2763.44 --> 2764.96] with stage four prostate cancer. -[2765.50 --> 2770.28] We pray that all treatments go well and pray that you stay near to him and his family through -[2770.28 --> 2770.70] this time. -[2770.70 --> 2776.62] We also pray for Amanda Hoguewoning's sister, Tanya, as she has been diagnosed with stage -[2776.62 --> 2778.94] four breast cancer and it has spread to other areas. -[2779.56 --> 2784.20] We pray for strength during this time as she starts new meds, and we pray those meds can -[2784.20 --> 2786.06] help her and that the side effects are minimal. -[2788.06 --> 2793.42] Lord, we lift up those who are battling with depression, anxiety, and addiction, asking for -[2793.42 --> 2795.30] your healing, touch, and peace to surround them. -[2795.98 --> 2798.04] Please be near to them and show them your love. -[2798.04 --> 2802.86] We pray that they find the strength in you, Lord, to seek the help and support they need. -[2803.48 --> 2807.34] May your light shine on them and show them a new path of your grace and love. -[2808.02 --> 2812.78] We thank you for the birth of Jed Wolfe Howling and that he is healthy and that mom is doing -[2812.78 --> 2813.06] well. -[2813.84 --> 2817.20] We pray for Pastor Chris as he comes up to preach and give us the word. -[2817.84 --> 2820.00] May we have the ears to hear and the hearts to listen. -[2821.02 --> 2825.68] We want to thank you, Lord, for the countless blessings you have given to us, seen and unseen. -[2825.68 --> 2829.84] We are grateful for your constant love and guidance through our lives. -[2830.20 --> 2833.60] May we continue to walk in your grace and share your light with others. -[2834.12 --> 2837.44] We pray this all in your son's name, who died on the cross for all our sins. -[2837.72 --> 2837.94] Amen. -[2837.94 --> 2838.04] Amen. -[2838.04 --> 2860.36] We are going to spend the next little while looking together at the next section in our -[2860.36 --> 2862.54] Thessalonians series. -[2862.54 --> 2868.98] We are going to read 1 Thessalonians 2, 13 through 16. -[2870.30 --> 2879.14] Before we do that, I want to start off this morning just by simply acknowledging that there -[2879.14 --> 2887.56] is possibly no greater critic of preaching than preachers. -[2887.56 --> 2896.82] And so I want to confess to you that when I go to other churches or when I have the opportunity -[2896.82 --> 2906.62] to sit down under the preaching of other people, some of my default posture is, oh, that's not -[2906.62 --> 2907.60] how I would have done that. -[2908.26 --> 2911.88] Or that's not what I think the main point is here. -[2911.88 --> 2917.28] And I can become rather critical. -[2918.98 --> 2922.02] Now, I never do that with Josh and Kevin when they preach here. -[2923.88 --> 2927.20] But that's because by the time they preach here, I've gone through it three or four times -[2927.20 --> 2927.54] with them. -[2927.60 --> 2929.26] So they're already saying what I want them to say. -[2931.58 --> 2931.98] Kidding. -[2933.78 --> 2934.68] Sort of. -[2934.68 --> 2946.68] And I will also confess to you that there's no greater critic of my preaching than me. -[2948.46 --> 2950.30] And so say what you want. -[2950.48 --> 2951.88] I've already said it to myself. -[2952.84 --> 2954.26] Come at me however you want. -[2954.32 --> 2956.18] I've already come at myself in that regard. -[2957.70 --> 2959.32] Now, why am I starting this way? -[2959.56 --> 2963.56] Not because I want to tip the scales in favor of you saying, oh, pastor, that was an awesome -[2963.56 --> 2963.88] sermon. -[2964.06 --> 2964.80] Thank you for that. -[2965.26 --> 2967.06] Quite the opposite, actually. -[2971.94 --> 2983.46] I have been trying to learn how to comprehensively and more intentionally hear the voice of God -[2983.46 --> 2985.54] in preaching. -[2985.54 --> 2997.50] Because there's something going on in this moment right now that speaks the voice of God. -[3000.12 --> 3006.62] And I need to humble myself to not be so arrogant as to determine what God is saying, but rather -[3006.62 --> 3010.10] to receive what he is saying. -[3010.10 --> 3017.04] And so as we come into God's word this morning, I wonder if maybe that is a helpful posture -[3017.04 --> 3018.34] to adopt. -[3018.48 --> 3028.20] How can we receive in this moment the word of God as a word of grace and hope and encouragement? -[3030.06 --> 3036.80] Let's read together from 1 Thessalonians 2, starting at verse 13. -[3036.80 --> 3046.68] And we also thank God continually, because when you received the word of God, which you heard -[3046.68 --> 3053.90] from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is the word of God, which -[3053.90 --> 3056.26] is indeed at work in you who believe. -[3057.12 --> 3063.84] For you, brothers and sisters, became imitators of God's churches in Judea, which are in Christ -[3063.84 --> 3064.84] Jesus. -[3064.84 --> 3070.80] You suffered from your own people the same things those churches suffered from the Jews -[3070.80 --> 3074.00] who killed the Lord Jesus and the prophets who drove us out. -[3075.06 --> 3080.20] They displeased God and are hostile to everyone in their effort to keep us from speaking to -[3080.20 --> 3082.22] the Gentiles so that they may be saved. -[3082.80 --> 3086.12] In this way, they also heap up their sins to the limit. -[3086.80 --> 3090.12] The wrath of God has come upon them at last. -[3090.12 --> 3092.18] The word of the Lord. -[3097.86 --> 3109.34] What I hope we can begin to see together this morning from these words of Paul is the idea, -[3110.16 --> 3120.06] the truth that God's word preached is the source of transformation for those who receive it. -[3120.12 --> 3130.32] That's the preaching of God's word that has a power to change hearts, lives, and minds. -[3130.32 --> 3138.96] Now, Paul begins this section kind of continuing in a line and theme that he has been on from -[3138.96 --> 3139.38] the beginning. -[3140.18 --> 3145.12] He begins by saying, we also thank God continually, right? -[3145.18 --> 3150.40] That language is a callback to verse 2 of chapter 1. -[3150.40 --> 3160.02] Remember, Paul is encouraged by the testimony of the Thessalonian church, and so he's grateful -[3160.02 --> 3166.54] for the ways that they have remained faithful to the gospel that he first proclaimed and preached -[3166.54 --> 3167.70] to them when he came. -[3168.20 --> 3175.42] His gratitude to God for the Thessalonian church abounds in this moment and in this letter. -[3175.42 --> 3181.76] He celebrates their faith that works, to use the language that Kevin led us in, their love -[3181.76 --> 3187.58] that labors, and their hope that holds fast in trials. -[3187.76 --> 3189.60] That's verse 3 of chapter 1. -[3190.50 --> 3200.78] And now he celebrates the truth that they accepted, they heard the word of God as the word of God, -[3200.78 --> 3202.60] not merely as human words. -[3202.68 --> 3207.42] It's the word of God, Paul says, that's at work in you who believe. -[3208.20 --> 3209.68] And that's what he's grateful for. -[3211.32 --> 3219.14] Paul's gratitude for the way the word of God has transformed the lives of the church in Thessalonica -[3219.14 --> 3220.88] is profound. -[3220.88 --> 3234.50] And I wonder, by way of example, how often are you in your lives giving thanks to God for -[3234.50 --> 3240.84] the way you see him at work through the word in the lives of those around you? -[3242.50 --> 3242.70] Right? -[3242.78 --> 3250.44] Have you prayed, Jesus, I thank you for the work that you are doing in their life? -[3250.88 --> 3257.08] I thank you for the work that you are doing in the lives of those in my church, in my small -[3257.08 --> 3257.44] group. -[3258.62 --> 3265.10] Jesus, I thank you for the way your word is changing the people around me. -[3266.44 --> 3272.18] I'll be honest with you, that's a regular part of my prayers and my prayers of gratitude -[3272.18 --> 3275.06] because we see that at this church. -[3275.06 --> 3278.26] It's a regular part of our praying as staff together. -[3279.56 --> 3285.36] And it's a regular part of the elders' meetings that we have and the elders praying through -[3285.36 --> 3287.06] the work that we get to do. -[3287.80 --> 3295.54] It seems clear to those of us with eyes to see who look at this regularly that God is doing -[3295.54 --> 3297.60] something in our midst. -[3297.60 --> 3303.46] And I'm really grateful to be able to see that and to be part of that and I give thanks to God -[3303.46 --> 3304.54] for it. -[3304.62 --> 3314.44] The encouraging thing that we get to see and that we get to share with you is that God's -[3314.44 --> 3317.84] word is doing something in our midst. -[3317.84 --> 3321.22] God's word is doing something in our midst. -[3321.22 --> 3326.88] This past week, we had the opportunity to gather with a group of about 30 or so small -[3326.88 --> 3336.52] group leaders and ministry teachers from those who lead the littlest among us to youth leaders, -[3336.84 --> 3343.64] care group leaders, to those who are leading in the sort of retired and senior ministries around -[3343.64 --> 3350.58] here, and we gathered all to sort of discuss and to be encouraged and to be equipped on how -[3350.58 --> 3358.98] what we do is used by God to make disciples, how what we do is used by God to take his word and to -[3358.98 --> 3365.90] apply it into the lives of those he has given us here, how what we do is used by God to raise up -[3365.90 --> 3373.58] and encourage the next generation of those who will believe. And at that evening, I'm so great -[3373.58 --> 3379.70] for the stories we got to share and for the difficulties that we could support each other in. -[3382.18 --> 3387.96] And throughout all of that, and with all of that in mind, there's a principle, -[3388.96 --> 3395.84] a principle of gratitude that I want to pull out for a moment with you. And that principle, -[3395.84 --> 3403.82] I'll state it this way. Practicing gratitude is the antidote to a grumbling attitude. -[3405.72 --> 3411.34] Practicing gratitude is the antidote to a grumbling attitude. And so I just want to do a quick straw -[3411.34 --> 3418.34] poll for a minute. How many of you know somebody with a grumbling attitude? Raise your hand. -[3418.34 --> 3424.24] All right. How many of you know somebody with a propensity for complaining? Don't be afraid. Hold -[3424.24 --> 3431.76] your hand up. Now, we were timid here. But if you looked around, and if we weren't lying, -[3432.18 --> 3438.86] you would see that at least half of our hands went up. Now, here's what I want you to think about that. -[3438.86 --> 3449.38] Okay? That means there's a 50% chance or higher that you are the grumbler that somebody knows. -[3451.80 --> 3458.54] Are we following that? Now, look, this doesn't surprise us, right? Because we know ourselves, -[3459.16 --> 3465.44] and we know that our churches are full of sinners now called saints who struggle with sin. And so all -[3465.44 --> 3474.70] of us do grumble-worthy things. But the command of God, right, is to not grumble even when they do -[3474.70 --> 3481.74] grumble-worthy things, even when we face grumble-worthy circumstances. Right? In 1 Corinthians, -[3482.20 --> 3489.38] Paul uses the story of Israel wandering in the wilderness, and he holds them up as a negative example, -[3489.38 --> 3495.42] and he says, don't be like them, right? Don't be idolaters, he says in 1 Corinthians 10, 7. He says, -[3495.44 --> 3505.56] don't test Christ, and then he says, do not grumble. James, in his epistle, like the Apostle Paul here in -[3505.56 --> 3515.42] Thessalonians, he looks to Jesus' return as the impetus, the ground for patience and for faithfulness. -[3515.88 --> 3524.34] And he says, be patient and stand firm because the Lord's coming is near. Do not grumble against one -[3524.34 --> 3534.66] another, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged. And so, how is it that we don't grumble? -[3536.24 --> 3542.92] Well, by doing what Paul does in our text, right? We have gratitude to God for the way that he is -[3542.92 --> 3550.10] working in the lives around us, right? Gratitude transforms your imaginations from being captive -[3550.10 --> 3557.36] to the immediate and opens your minds to what is possible in the transcendent, right? Gratitude -[3557.36 --> 3565.16] changes the way you see your present circumstances because you're training yourself to see God at work. -[3566.40 --> 3573.86] And if you can see God at work over here in this mess, right? And if you can see God at work over here -[3573.86 --> 3582.20] in this circumstance, right? You can have faith that he will do something similar over here. And you can -[3582.20 --> 3591.86] have patience for when he comes to do it. Or you can have faith that if he doesn't do that, he's doing -[3591.86 --> 3600.48] something even greater for his glory, something different for his and your good. You just can't yet see it. -[3600.48 --> 3609.80] Right? A heart of gratitude is training to accept a God of goodness even when he is hidden. -[3611.20 --> 3617.76] A heart filled with gratitude for the ways in which God is at work doesn't dwell on the ways in which -[3617.76 --> 3628.64] other people are or aren't working in ways that frustrate you. If we don't focus on gratitude to God, -[3628.64 --> 3640.94] grumbling is the sort of default response. Gratitude is the grace-filled supernatural response. -[3642.56 --> 3649.30] So as we are applying this principle, think for a minute, the next time that you are tempted to grumble, -[3649.68 --> 3652.64] try asking yourself, I wonder how God is working here. -[3652.64 --> 3661.60] Or try asking yourself, is God asking me to be part of a story of gratitude for his working right now? -[3663.60 --> 3670.66] And as you go today, ask, how are you in your words and in your attitudes, -[3670.66 --> 3677.74] how are you contributing to a culture here of gratitude over grumbling? -[3681.30 --> 3688.56] And maybe the next time someone grumbles to you, you might have the courage to stop them -[3688.56 --> 3692.30] and just ask, where are you seeing God right now? -[3692.30 --> 3697.24] How is God at work in your life right now? -[3697.72 --> 3699.00] Where is God showing up? -[3699.68 --> 3701.42] Or where do you need him to show up? -[3702.60 --> 3708.16] And if you are seeing him over here, maybe, maybe you can wait for him over here. -[3709.08 --> 3713.12] And maybe that is something we need to pray about rather than grumble about. -[3715.12 --> 3719.66] Practicing gratitude is the antidote for a grumbling attitude. -[3722.30 --> 3725.24] Now hold that in your brain for a moment. -[3726.82 --> 3732.80] So let's notice next exactly what it is that Paul is grateful for. -[3732.90 --> 3737.04] He says, we thank God because when you received the word of God, -[3737.04 --> 3741.78] which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, -[3741.94 --> 3746.38] but as it actually is the word of God. -[3746.38 --> 3753.62] So Paul is grateful for the way the Thessalonian church has received the word of God. -[3753.90 --> 3759.36] But notice here, right, a characteristic of the word of God that they received that he is grateful for. -[3760.66 --> 3761.94] They heard it. -[3763.54 --> 3769.16] Paul is talking about the way they heard the word of God preached. -[3769.16 --> 3776.32] Paul came to them and he preached in the Spirit and the Spirit used his preaching to transform their lives. -[3777.50 --> 3780.98] We read in Romans 10 that this is actually the normal pattern. -[3781.48 --> 3783.16] Romans 10 verse 17 says, -[3783.56 --> 3790.00] Faith comes from hearing the message and the message heard is through the word about Christ. -[3790.00 --> 3795.18] You received the word of God which you heard from us not as a human word, -[3795.26 --> 3800.50] but as it actually is a word of God. -[3801.58 --> 3811.10] In 1 Peter 1, 23 to 25, there's a long section there and a continuous thought that starts -[3811.10 --> 3818.66] and it says that the living and enduring word of God is the word that was preached to you. -[3820.00 --> 3821.66] So here's what I want us to be hearing, right? -[3821.72 --> 3826.72] That somehow, somehow in the economy of God's work in the world, -[3826.88 --> 3832.34] the preached word is the means by which he brings salvation and faith to people. -[3833.22 --> 3838.46] Such that when the preacher stands up and opens the word of God and begins to preach, -[3838.82 --> 3845.26] insofar as he is faithful to the message, it is God's voice through him to you. -[3846.94 --> 3848.36] Now this means a couple things. -[3848.36 --> 3857.24] First, for those of us who preach, it means we better take this task and responsibility seriously. -[3858.76 --> 3864.26] It means we better make our hearts willing and subservient to the will of God. -[3865.22 --> 3865.58] Right? -[3865.62 --> 3870.18] I want to be a humble and willing tool in the hands of God. -[3870.18 --> 3875.24] So that it might be his voice that comes through me. -[3876.96 --> 3879.46] But it also changes the way you listen. -[3880.54 --> 3885.28] Because it means that even the most average preachers, -[3885.44 --> 3887.92] even the most mediocre preachers like myself, -[3888.08 --> 3892.14] are used by God to speak his voice. -[3892.14 --> 3895.62] God is faithful. -[3896.74 --> 3902.26] And that means there's always, always something here for you. -[3902.94 --> 3906.78] There's always a word of God for your heart. -[3908.70 --> 3913.38] There's always a word of God for your faith. -[3913.38 --> 3919.84] Now, you may not be entertained, -[3920.84 --> 3923.26] but God is still speaking. -[3923.26 --> 3927.76] The preacher may not be the most riveting, -[3928.56 --> 3931.50] but God is still speaking. -[3931.50 --> 3943.38] And look, lest you think that this is an attempt to platform myself or Kevin or Josh for our own words, -[3943.76 --> 3948.86] this has been the understanding of the Christian church from its beginning. -[3950.54 --> 3955.50] A preached word of God is the word of God. -[3955.50 --> 3956.70] Let me give you a couple examples. -[3957.90 --> 3961.22] We'll move out of this era to make this point. -[3961.64 --> 3965.70] In the 1560s, okay, almost 500 years ago, -[3966.72 --> 3970.16] the Second Helvetic Confession was written. -[3971.42 --> 3977.24] This is a lesser-known Reformed Confession written by Henry Bollinger. -[3977.72 --> 3979.48] He's a Swiss theologian. -[3980.42 --> 3983.32] This confession became popular in the Swiss Reformed churches. -[3983.32 --> 3986.82] And there, in the middle of that confession, -[3987.42 --> 3988.06] it reads, -[3988.40 --> 3992.78] the preaching of the word is the word of God. -[3994.12 --> 3996.60] This idea is worked out in our own tradition, -[3996.86 --> 3998.24] in the Heidelberg Catechism. -[3998.58 --> 4000.60] Question and answer 83 through 85 -[4000.60 --> 4004.52] explains what it is we believe Jesus means -[4004.52 --> 4007.42] when he talks about the keys of the kingdom -[4007.42 --> 4009.42] that are given to the church. -[4010.34 --> 4012.54] Preaching is one of the keys of the kingdom -[4012.54 --> 4015.48] whereby heaven is open to those who believe -[4015.48 --> 4018.74] by grace through faith and close to those who don't. -[4020.52 --> 4022.36] John Calvin is a French theologian -[4022.36 --> 4024.94] from this same time period in the 16th century. -[4025.84 --> 4027.70] In the Institutes of the Christian Religion, -[4028.24 --> 4028.92] he writes this, -[4029.04 --> 4030.74] and I think these are just beautiful words. -[4031.74 --> 4032.14] He writes, -[4032.14 --> 4053.60] Now, lest you think this is a Protestant truth, -[4053.96 --> 4055.30] let me keep going even further. -[4055.30 --> 4059.70] In his sermon for the Feast of Pentecost, -[4059.86 --> 4063.02] Aquinas, one of the greatest theologians -[4063.02 --> 4066.70] in the history of the church in the 12th century, -[4067.24 --> 4069.24] emphasizes the transformative power -[4069.82 --> 4072.22] of the Holy Spirit in preaching. -[4072.36 --> 4074.02] And I'm going to summarize one of the main points -[4074.02 --> 4075.46] in that sermon that he gives, -[4075.52 --> 4078.20] is that the Holy Spirit makes the tongue -[4078.20 --> 4080.44] of the preacher efficacious, -[4080.44 --> 4082.70] that is, it gives it power and effective, -[4083.28 --> 4086.06] so that the preacher can worthily -[4086.06 --> 4089.30] and fruitfully set forth the Word of God. -[4091.08 --> 4092.98] And we can keep going back further, right? -[4093.04 --> 4095.24] Because again, this is the history of the church. -[4095.70 --> 4097.94] Augustine, a 4th century church father, -[4098.16 --> 4099.48] now from North Africa, -[4100.68 --> 4101.70] he says that, -[4101.70 --> 4105.00] We should not find it surprising -[4105.00 --> 4107.58] that to meet our weakness, -[4107.78 --> 4111.34] Christ descended to the discreet sounds -[4111.34 --> 4112.38] that we use. -[4113.76 --> 4115.84] He goes on to say, -[4117.12 --> 4120.86] I feed you on what I feed on myself. -[4122.44 --> 4122.90] Right? -[4122.96 --> 4124.16] So I feed you the Word -[4124.16 --> 4125.74] as I feed on it myself. -[4126.02 --> 4127.20] I am just a waiter. -[4127.36 --> 4128.62] I am not a master of the house. -[4128.62 --> 4131.00] I set before you from the pantry -[4131.00 --> 4133.24] which I too live on. -[4133.96 --> 4134.80] And I'll be honest with you, -[4135.00 --> 4135.84] I could keep going. -[4137.22 --> 4138.68] Yesterday I was in my study -[4138.68 --> 4140.50] trying to put some final touches -[4140.50 --> 4141.32] on these things -[4141.32 --> 4143.16] and Rachel called me at 4 o'clock -[4143.16 --> 4143.88] and she said, -[4143.94 --> 4144.80] Hey, are you coming home? -[4145.74 --> 4146.04] And I said, -[4146.08 --> 4146.74] What time is it? -[4147.46 --> 4149.04] She pulled me out of this deep dive -[4149.04 --> 4150.60] that I was doing in the midst of this. -[4150.98 --> 4152.94] I spent like an hour and a half -[4152.94 --> 4154.00] reading Irenaeus, -[4154.08 --> 4155.88] who's a second century church father -[4155.88 --> 4159.10] who argues from the apostolic tradition -[4159.10 --> 4161.32] that preaching is the means -[4161.32 --> 4162.78] by which the gospel continues -[4162.78 --> 4163.46] to be affirmed. -[4163.66 --> 4164.60] Point is, -[4164.96 --> 4166.52] this is how the church -[4166.52 --> 4168.26] has always understood -[4168.26 --> 4170.66] the way God speaks to His people. -[4172.26 --> 4172.48] Right? -[4172.52 --> 4174.68] The Word of God starts actually -[4174.68 --> 4176.48] as an oral reality -[4176.48 --> 4177.38] of God Himself -[4177.38 --> 4180.70] speaking creation into being. -[4181.24 --> 4182.86] Of speaking to Adam and Eve -[4182.86 --> 4183.42] in the garden -[4183.42 --> 4184.40] as He walks with Him -[4184.40 --> 4185.68] in the cool of the day. -[4186.20 --> 4187.40] Speaking through angels. -[4187.40 --> 4189.44] The Word of God continues orally -[4189.44 --> 4190.38] and is memorized -[4190.38 --> 4191.76] in tradition -[4191.76 --> 4192.82] and in family. -[4193.00 --> 4194.60] It's spoken by the patriarchs -[4194.60 --> 4195.74] and by the storytellers -[4195.74 --> 4196.76] of the community. -[4197.06 --> 4198.00] It's written -[4198.00 --> 4199.70] and collected -[4199.70 --> 4200.58] by Moses -[4200.58 --> 4201.52] all the while -[4201.52 --> 4202.16] continuing -[4202.16 --> 4203.48] in its oral form -[4203.48 --> 4203.92] and speech -[4203.92 --> 4204.96] as God is progressively -[4204.96 --> 4206.04] revealing Himself -[4206.04 --> 4206.70] more and more -[4206.70 --> 4207.44] through the prophets. -[4208.56 --> 4209.20] And then -[4209.20 --> 4210.88] in the most amazing -[4210.88 --> 4211.94] of all miracles -[4211.94 --> 4214.00] the Word of God -[4214.00 --> 4215.40] took on flesh. -[4215.40 --> 4217.68] In John 1 -[4217.68 --> 4218.48] we read that -[4218.48 --> 4219.02] in the beginning -[4219.02 --> 4219.68] was the Word -[4219.68 --> 4220.54] and the Word was God -[4220.54 --> 4221.28] and the Word was with God -[4221.28 --> 4222.30] He was God in the beginning -[4222.30 --> 4223.88] and then in John 1.14 -[4223.88 --> 4225.78] the Word took on flesh -[4225.78 --> 4227.22] and made His dwelling among us. -[4227.52 --> 4228.88] And so God has always -[4228.88 --> 4230.20] communicated Himself -[4230.20 --> 4231.80] mediated Himself -[4231.80 --> 4233.18] through the Word -[4233.18 --> 4234.10] and that Word -[4234.10 --> 4235.20] has taken on flesh -[4235.20 --> 4236.56] in the person of Jesus Christ -[4236.56 --> 4237.94] and now we continue -[4237.94 --> 4239.26] to hear the voice -[4239.26 --> 4240.88] of that same Jesus -[4240.88 --> 4243.06] in the preached Word. -[4243.06 --> 4245.54] This is the miracle -[4245.54 --> 4246.86] of our faith -[4246.86 --> 4248.08] and it is a miracle -[4248.08 --> 4248.74] of incarnation -[4248.74 --> 4249.92] that continues -[4249.92 --> 4250.90] to be worked out -[4250.90 --> 4252.48] week in and week out -[4252.48 --> 4253.66] as we gather together -[4253.66 --> 4254.92] under the Word. -[4255.60 --> 4256.26] This is the point -[4256.26 --> 4256.90] that Paul makes -[4256.90 --> 4257.76] when he commissions -[4257.76 --> 4259.24] the next generation -[4259.24 --> 4260.22] of apostles -[4260.22 --> 4261.16] just as Christ -[4261.16 --> 4262.18] commissioned the apostles -[4262.18 --> 4262.96] to preach the Word -[4262.96 --> 4264.06] Paul commissions -[4264.06 --> 4265.68] Timothy and Titus -[4265.68 --> 4267.40] to hold out -[4267.40 --> 4268.46] the Word of life. -[4269.46 --> 4270.34] And it's at this point -[4270.34 --> 4272.12] that the early church -[4272.12 --> 4273.48] expressing through -[4273.48 --> 4274.44] written forms -[4274.44 --> 4275.40] what had been -[4275.40 --> 4276.40] the teaching -[4276.40 --> 4277.12] and tradition -[4277.12 --> 4278.04] of the apostles -[4278.04 --> 4278.90] throughout -[4278.90 --> 4279.76] and we note it -[4279.76 --> 4280.74] in the letters -[4280.74 --> 4281.70] that Paul has written -[4281.70 --> 4283.76] we notice in the letters -[4283.76 --> 4284.94] that John and Peter -[4284.94 --> 4285.60] James -[4285.60 --> 4287.10] the letter to the Hebrews -[4287.10 --> 4287.70] Revelation -[4287.70 --> 4291.10] in all these things -[4291.10 --> 4293.68] the Word of God -[4293.68 --> 4294.40] first taught -[4294.40 --> 4295.20] and expressed -[4295.20 --> 4296.16] orally -[4296.16 --> 4297.12] and then -[4297.12 --> 4298.30] which was written down -[4298.30 --> 4300.78] all of that -[4300.78 --> 4301.84] right -[4301.84 --> 4302.74] is the Word -[4302.74 --> 4303.72] of God -[4303.72 --> 4305.70] and this oral ministry -[4305.70 --> 4306.58] of the Word of God -[4306.58 --> 4307.32] continues -[4307.32 --> 4308.36] throughout -[4308.36 --> 4309.98] ministers and theologians -[4309.98 --> 4310.74] today. -[4312.06 --> 4312.28] Now -[4312.28 --> 4313.58] at this point -[4313.58 --> 4314.06] we need to -[4314.06 --> 4315.84] slow down for a minute -[4315.84 --> 4318.06] because this is really -[4318.06 --> 4318.90] important for me to say -[4318.90 --> 4322.04] the only way -[4322.04 --> 4323.44] the only way -[4323.44 --> 4324.64] that you can know -[4324.64 --> 4325.90] the Word of God -[4325.90 --> 4327.44] spoken orally -[4327.44 --> 4329.32] is by testing it -[4329.32 --> 4330.28] against the record -[4330.28 --> 4330.84] of Scripture -[4330.84 --> 4332.52] in its written form. -[4333.48 --> 4334.82] The written Word -[4334.82 --> 4335.34] of God -[4335.34 --> 4336.22] is the only -[4336.22 --> 4337.36] infallible rule -[4337.36 --> 4338.32] for life and faith -[4338.32 --> 4339.56] by which we must -[4339.56 --> 4340.66] test the spoken -[4340.66 --> 4342.42] words of God -[4342.42 --> 4342.76] and so -[4342.76 --> 4343.76] every Sunday -[4343.76 --> 4344.44] when I'm up here -[4344.44 --> 4344.80] preaching -[4344.80 --> 4345.64] proclaiming to you -[4345.64 --> 4346.24] what I believe -[4346.24 --> 4346.74] faithfully -[4346.74 --> 4347.76] to be the Word of God -[4347.76 --> 4349.00] you need to know -[4349.00 --> 4349.62] the Scriptures -[4349.62 --> 4351.34] to test it -[4351.34 --> 4353.26] and see that it is true. -[4353.26 --> 4356.14] This must be -[4356.14 --> 4357.82] part of our -[4357.82 --> 4358.78] work -[4358.78 --> 4359.96] together. -[4361.00 --> 4361.98] The Word of God -[4361.98 --> 4362.92] spoken orally -[4362.92 --> 4364.16] must be tested -[4364.16 --> 4365.78] against the Word of God -[4365.78 --> 4367.06] written infallibly -[4367.06 --> 4367.94] in order for us -[4367.94 --> 4368.46] to know -[4368.46 --> 4369.12] that it -[4369.12 --> 4370.32] is true. -[4371.88 --> 4373.02] Because the Scriptures -[4373.02 --> 4374.28] are the infallible -[4374.28 --> 4375.26] rule of God -[4375.26 --> 4376.16] the Scriptures -[4376.16 --> 4377.58] are the revelation -[4377.58 --> 4378.64] of the God -[4378.64 --> 4379.54] who speaks, right? -[4379.60 --> 4380.42] The infallibility -[4380.42 --> 4381.02] of the Scripture -[4381.02 --> 4381.74] is connected -[4381.74 --> 4382.70] to the character -[4382.70 --> 4383.36] of the God -[4383.36 --> 4384.14] who speaks them. -[4385.42 --> 4385.96] So if you've ever -[4385.96 --> 4386.44] wondered why -[4386.44 --> 4387.40] we trust the Bible -[4387.40 --> 4389.02] it's because God -[4389.02 --> 4389.66] is trustworthy -[4389.66 --> 4391.68] and so when He speaks -[4391.68 --> 4393.46] He speaks only truth. -[4395.90 --> 4396.84] But that's how -[4396.84 --> 4397.80] we can identify -[4397.80 --> 4399.58] what the early -[4399.58 --> 4400.30] church fathers -[4400.30 --> 4401.30] called the -[4401.30 --> 4402.48] viva vox dei -[4402.48 --> 4404.18] the living voice -[4404.18 --> 4404.84] of God. -[4406.48 --> 4407.52] My job -[4407.52 --> 4408.82] and anyone -[4408.82 --> 4409.38] who stands -[4409.38 --> 4410.28] on this stage -[4410.28 --> 4410.78] and opens -[4410.78 --> 4411.28] the Scriptures -[4411.28 --> 4411.94] for you -[4411.94 --> 4413.72] is to be -[4413.72 --> 4414.66] a mouthpiece -[4414.66 --> 4415.82] for the living -[4415.82 --> 4417.60] voice of God. -[4418.70 --> 4419.98] I must decrease -[4419.98 --> 4420.64] so that He -[4420.64 --> 4421.66] may increase -[4421.66 --> 4422.60] and when you -[4422.60 --> 4423.74] receive the Word -[4423.74 --> 4424.20] of God -[4424.20 --> 4425.16] that you hear -[4425.16 --> 4425.78] from me -[4425.78 --> 4426.46] the question -[4426.46 --> 4427.78] on your hearts -[4427.78 --> 4429.30] must be -[4429.30 --> 4430.64] do you hear -[4430.64 --> 4431.36] this -[4431.36 --> 4432.10] as -[4432.10 --> 4433.96] it is -[4433.96 --> 4435.80] as a word -[4435.80 --> 4437.24] from God? -[4437.24 --> 4442.24] how do we know -[4442.24 --> 4442.62] it's a word -[4442.62 --> 4443.08] from God? -[4444.70 --> 4445.22] One -[4445.22 --> 4446.88] it's confirmed -[4446.88 --> 4447.64] by the Scriptures -[4447.64 --> 4449.26] right? -[4449.32 --> 4449.86] We test -[4449.86 --> 4450.50] the Spirit -[4450.50 --> 4451.62] and we see -[4451.62 --> 4452.74] that it is true -[4452.74 --> 4453.78] that the two -[4453.78 --> 4454.24] accord -[4454.24 --> 4455.46] because the Spirit -[4455.46 --> 4456.00] will speak -[4456.00 --> 4457.32] with one voice. -[4458.20 --> 4458.72] Two -[4458.72 --> 4459.62] we know -[4459.62 --> 4460.04] that it is -[4460.04 --> 4460.88] the Word of God -[4460.88 --> 4462.06] because lives -[4462.06 --> 4463.30] are transformed -[4463.30 --> 4464.62] right? -[4464.62 --> 4464.90] we know -[4464.90 --> 4465.20] that it's -[4465.20 --> 4465.44] the Word -[4465.44 --> 4465.72] of God -[4465.72 --> 4466.48] because by it -[4466.48 --> 4467.22] you become -[4467.22 --> 4468.28] imitators -[4468.28 --> 4469.74] imitators -[4469.74 --> 4470.40] of Christ -[4470.40 --> 4471.28] imitators -[4471.28 --> 4471.72] of other -[4471.72 --> 4472.10] mature -[4472.10 --> 4472.76] disciples -[4472.76 --> 4473.76] imitators -[4473.76 --> 4474.12] of those -[4474.12 --> 4474.58] examples -[4474.58 --> 4475.12] of faith -[4475.12 --> 4475.82] and godliness -[4475.82 --> 4476.50] that He -[4476.50 --> 4476.92] has set -[4476.92 --> 4477.46] before you -[4477.46 --> 4478.28] imitators -[4478.28 --> 4478.92] of God's -[4478.92 --> 4479.28] church -[4479.28 --> 4480.04] that's what -[4480.04 --> 4481.08] Paul grounds -[4481.08 --> 4481.74] his argument -[4481.74 --> 4482.20] in here -[4482.20 --> 4482.54] he says -[4482.54 --> 4483.14] you received -[4483.14 --> 4483.48] the Word -[4483.48 --> 4483.88] of God -[4483.88 --> 4484.28] and so -[4484.28 --> 4484.80] by it -[4484.80 --> 4485.68] you became -[4485.68 --> 4486.38] imitators -[4486.38 --> 4486.94] of the churches -[4486.94 --> 4487.66] in Judea -[4487.66 --> 4488.82] and in that -[4488.82 --> 4490.82] point of comparison -[4490.82 --> 4491.58] that Paul is -[4491.58 --> 4491.88] making -[4491.88 --> 4492.18] he says -[4492.18 --> 4493.44] those Christians -[4493.44 --> 4494.14] those early -[4494.14 --> 4494.52] Christians -[4494.52 --> 4495.18] in Judea -[4495.18 --> 4496.66] also suffered -[4496.66 --> 4497.30] from their -[4497.30 --> 4497.84] own people -[4497.84 --> 4498.54] in the same -[4498.54 --> 4499.38] way that you -[4499.38 --> 4500.12] have suffered -[4500.12 --> 4500.98] from your -[4500.98 --> 4501.50] own people -[4501.50 --> 4501.92] remember -[4501.92 --> 4502.56] when the -[4502.56 --> 4502.90] believers -[4502.90 --> 4503.96] first became -[4503.96 --> 4504.36] Christian -[4504.36 --> 4505.18] in Thessalonica -[4505.18 --> 4506.48] they were -[4506.48 --> 4507.14] challenged -[4507.14 --> 4508.08] and persecuted -[4508.08 --> 4509.18] and they -[4509.18 --> 4509.94] were arrested -[4509.94 --> 4511.18] they suffered -[4511.18 --> 4512.30] from their -[4512.30 --> 4513.38] own people -[4513.38 --> 4514.52] and Paul -[4514.52 --> 4514.80] is saying -[4514.80 --> 4515.56] this is -[4515.56 --> 4515.84] what -[4515.84 --> 4517.26] discipleship -[4517.26 --> 4518.44] looks like -[4518.44 --> 4519.64] in fact -[4519.64 --> 4521.96] suffering -[4521.96 --> 4523.56] for the -[4523.56 --> 4524.00] gospel -[4524.00 --> 4525.80] is confirmation -[4525.80 --> 4527.38] of transformation -[4527.38 --> 4528.52] by the -[4528.52 --> 4528.92] gospel -[4528.92 --> 4530.34] or to put it -[4530.34 --> 4530.84] another way -[4530.84 --> 4532.56] peculiarity -[4532.56 --> 4533.28] for those of -[4533.28 --> 4533.96] us who believe -[4533.96 --> 4536.00] is a -[4536.00 --> 4536.64] proof -[4536.64 --> 4538.30] that it's -[4538.30 --> 4539.54] true -[4539.54 --> 4540.36] in your -[4540.36 --> 4540.68] heart -[4540.68 --> 4541.86] and in -[4541.86 --> 4542.38] your lives -[4542.38 --> 4545.88] and so -[4545.88 --> 4548.10] when someone -[4548.10 --> 4548.92] calls you -[4548.92 --> 4549.66] strange -[4549.66 --> 4551.12] or weird -[4551.12 --> 4552.20] because of -[4552.20 --> 4552.74] your Christian -[4552.74 --> 4553.28] faith -[4553.28 --> 4555.68] do what we -[4555.68 --> 4556.08] read in the -[4556.08 --> 4556.44] scriptures -[4556.44 --> 4557.38] rejoice -[4557.38 --> 4558.80] because you -[4558.80 --> 4559.38] get to suffer -[4559.38 --> 4560.64] for that name -[4560.64 --> 4562.08] because it -[4562.08 --> 4562.86] means God's -[4562.86 --> 4563.58] work is -[4563.58 --> 4564.66] really working -[4564.66 --> 4565.46] his voice -[4565.46 --> 4566.10] is really -[4566.10 --> 4567.08] real and -[4567.08 --> 4567.82] it is really -[4567.82 --> 4568.80] speaking to -[4568.80 --> 4569.96] you in -[4569.96 --> 4570.74] your -[4570.74 --> 4571.94] life -[4571.94 --> 4573.62] God's -[4573.62 --> 4573.92] word -[4573.92 --> 4574.50] preached -[4574.50 --> 4575.28] is the -[4575.28 --> 4575.70] source -[4575.70 --> 4576.04] of -[4576.04 --> 4576.68] transformation -[4576.68 --> 4578.00] for those -[4578.00 --> 4578.78] who -[4578.78 --> 4580.02] receive it -[4580.02 --> 4581.86] and so -[4581.86 --> 4582.50] really quickly -[4582.50 --> 4583.72] I want to -[4583.72 --> 4584.26] land this -[4584.26 --> 4584.78] plane -[4584.78 --> 4586.16] with some -[4586.16 --> 4586.78] ideas -[4586.78 --> 4587.72] and practical -[4587.72 --> 4588.64] steps of -[4588.64 --> 4589.22] application -[4589.22 --> 4590.20] for you -[4590.20 --> 4591.18] to transform -[4591.18 --> 4592.16] your hearing -[4592.16 --> 4592.94] so that you -[4592.94 --> 4593.32] can be -[4593.32 --> 4593.84] transformed -[4593.84 --> 4594.70] by hearing -[4594.70 --> 4596.08] first of all -[4596.08 --> 4597.20] what's one -[4597.20 --> 4597.76] thing that you -[4597.76 --> 4598.40] can do -[4598.40 --> 4599.28] to hear -[4599.28 --> 4599.74] the voice -[4599.74 --> 4600.12] of God -[4600.12 --> 4600.78] well pray -[4600.78 --> 4602.04] pray -[4602.04 --> 4602.86] pray before -[4602.86 --> 4603.84] you come -[4603.84 --> 4604.86] to worship -[4604.86 --> 4605.60] pray on -[4605.60 --> 4606.38] Saturday night -[4606.38 --> 4607.06] and on Sunday -[4607.06 --> 4607.44] morning -[4607.44 --> 4608.38] that in this -[4608.38 --> 4608.78] moment -[4608.78 --> 4609.88] through this -[4609.88 --> 4610.94] feeble attempt -[4610.94 --> 4611.50] of mine -[4611.50 --> 4612.56] you might hear -[4612.56 --> 4613.56] the infallible -[4613.56 --> 4614.82] word of God -[4614.82 --> 4616.22] that you might -[4616.22 --> 4617.24] hear the voice -[4617.24 --> 4618.10] of the living -[4618.10 --> 4618.98] God -[4618.98 --> 4620.44] pray that -[4620.44 --> 4621.40] what you need -[4621.40 --> 4622.16] to hear from -[4622.16 --> 4622.92] God would not -[4622.92 --> 4623.58] only be the -[4623.58 --> 4624.50] truth of God -[4624.50 --> 4625.24] but would be -[4625.24 --> 4626.40] what your heart -[4626.40 --> 4627.50] is crying out -[4627.50 --> 4627.86] for -[4627.86 --> 4628.96] what your soul -[4628.96 --> 4629.98] is longing for -[4629.98 --> 4630.42] so that you -[4630.42 --> 4631.30] might hear -[4631.30 --> 4632.00] and rest -[4632.00 --> 4633.16] in the words -[4633.16 --> 4634.50] of Jesus -[4634.50 --> 4636.28] and then -[4636.28 --> 4637.40] after praying -[4637.40 --> 4638.30] and hearing -[4638.30 --> 4639.64] I suggest -[4639.64 --> 4640.16] to you -[4640.16 --> 4641.64] to practice -[4641.64 --> 4643.56] practice -[4643.56 --> 4644.00] right -[4644.00 --> 4644.48] scripture -[4644.48 --> 4645.58] James in -[4645.58 --> 4645.96] particular -[4645.96 --> 4646.58] calls us -[4646.58 --> 4647.10] to not only -[4647.10 --> 4647.90] be hearers -[4647.90 --> 4648.48] of the word -[4648.48 --> 4649.40] but doers -[4649.40 --> 4650.26] also -[4650.26 --> 4652.34] this is -[4652.34 --> 4653.00] by the way -[4653.00 --> 4653.62] let's unpack -[4653.62 --> 4654.20] that thought -[4654.20 --> 4654.92] this idea -[4654.92 --> 4655.64] of practice -[4655.64 --> 4656.32] is also -[4656.32 --> 4656.78] where -[4656.78 --> 4657.56] your -[4657.56 --> 4660.42] striving -[4660.42 --> 4661.22] against -[4661.22 --> 4661.88] grumbling -[4661.88 --> 4662.90] and replacing -[4662.90 --> 4663.40] it with -[4663.40 --> 4663.90] gratitude -[4663.90 --> 4664.84] comes into -[4664.84 --> 4665.16] play -[4665.16 --> 4667.84] right -[4667.84 --> 4668.24] how do we -[4668.24 --> 4669.34] not grumble -[4669.34 --> 4670.50] but practice -[4670.50 --> 4671.68] do we do -[4671.68 --> 4672.40] what the Lord -[4672.40 --> 4673.02] is calling -[4673.02 --> 4673.90] us to do -[4673.90 --> 4674.88] in these -[4674.88 --> 4675.36] moments -[4675.36 --> 4675.90] how do we -[4675.90 --> 4677.36] live lives -[4677.36 --> 4678.40] of obedience -[4678.40 --> 4679.30] that he has -[4679.30 --> 4680.06] called us -[4680.06 --> 4681.00] to live -[4681.00 --> 4681.78] and do so -[4681.78 --> 4682.48] faithfully -[4682.48 --> 4682.88] and with -[4682.88 --> 4683.32] gratitude -[4683.32 --> 4684.26] for what -[4684.26 --> 4684.50] he has -[4684.50 --> 4684.74] done -[4684.74 --> 4686.06] and then -[4686.06 --> 4686.28] third -[4686.28 --> 4686.76] practical -[4686.76 --> 4687.32] application -[4687.32 --> 4688.00] preach -[4688.00 --> 4688.72] yourselves -[4688.72 --> 4689.82] right -[4689.82 --> 4690.38] take this -[4690.38 --> 4690.92] message -[4690.92 --> 4691.74] and tell -[4691.74 --> 4692.40] the gospel -[4692.40 --> 4693.26] to your -[4693.26 --> 4693.80] neighbors -[4693.80 --> 4694.26] and your -[4694.26 --> 4694.78] co-workers -[4694.78 --> 4695.20] and your -[4695.20 --> 4695.68] colleagues -[4695.68 --> 4696.08] to your -[4696.08 --> 4696.76] care groups -[4696.76 --> 4697.42] to your -[4697.42 --> 4697.78] friends -[4697.78 --> 4698.22] to those -[4698.22 --> 4698.54] whom you -[4698.54 --> 4698.70] meet -[4698.70 --> 4699.54] take this -[4699.54 --> 4700.12] truth -[4700.12 --> 4700.78] and then -[4700.78 --> 4701.74] cast it -[4701.74 --> 4702.06] out -[4702.06 --> 4702.70] into the -[4702.70 --> 4703.02] world -[4703.02 --> 4703.90] right -[4703.90 --> 4704.66] take the -[4704.66 --> 4705.00] gospel -[4705.00 --> 4705.32] that you -[4705.32 --> 4705.76] hear on -[4705.76 --> 4706.16] Sunday -[4706.16 --> 4706.64] and then -[4706.64 --> 4706.90] say -[4706.90 --> 4707.54] this is -[4707.54 --> 4707.80] what we -[4707.80 --> 4708.04] talked -[4708.04 --> 4708.26] about -[4708.26 --> 4708.72] in church -[4708.72 --> 4709.42] this is -[4709.42 --> 4709.72] what I'm -[4709.72 --> 4710.08] excited -[4710.08 --> 4710.44] about -[4710.44 --> 4711.00] this is -[4711.00 --> 4711.20] what's -[4711.20 --> 4711.58] going on -[4711.58 --> 4711.80] in my -[4711.80 --> 4712.18] life -[4712.48 --> 4713.24] right -[4713.24 --> 4713.68] preach -[4713.68 --> 4713.98] it -[4713.98 --> 4715.04] yourself -[4715.04 --> 4716.86] and then -[4716.86 --> 4717.22] fourth -[4717.22 --> 4717.76] how do we -[4717.76 --> 4718.76] make this -[4718.76 --> 4719.88] real -[4719.88 --> 4720.30] how do we -[4720.30 --> 4721.32] ensure that in -[4721.32 --> 4721.84] this we are -[4721.84 --> 4722.38] hearing the -[4722.38 --> 4723.00] voice of God -[4723.00 --> 4723.46] well I want to -[4723.46 --> 4723.92] use the language -[4723.92 --> 4724.76] of partake -[4724.76 --> 4726.42] partake -[4726.42 --> 4727.00] and by that I -[4727.00 --> 4727.74] mean partake -[4727.74 --> 4729.20] in the supper -[4729.20 --> 4730.10] that we have -[4730.10 --> 4730.48] together -[4730.48 --> 4731.40] partake in -[4731.40 --> 4732.50] the sacraments -[4732.50 --> 4733.84] partake in -[4733.84 --> 4734.90] the means -[4734.90 --> 4735.74] by which God -[4735.74 --> 4736.34] has said -[4736.34 --> 4737.56] I will -[4737.56 --> 4738.66] meet you -[4738.66 --> 4739.34] here -[4739.34 --> 4741.18] come to the -[4741.18 --> 4741.80] table where -[4741.80 --> 4742.40] we receive -[4742.40 --> 4742.92] the grace -[4742.92 --> 4743.54] of God -[4743.54 --> 4745.22] in ways -[4745.22 --> 4745.52] that we -[4745.52 --> 4746.54] can hold -[4746.54 --> 4747.44] and touch -[4747.44 --> 4748.34] and taste -[4748.34 --> 4748.96] and it's -[4748.96 --> 4749.46] the same -[4749.46 --> 4750.20] grace that's -[4750.20 --> 4751.12] offered in -[4751.12 --> 4751.66] the word -[4751.66 --> 4752.26] proclaimed -[4752.26 --> 4754.92] partake in -[4754.92 --> 4755.78] the voice -[4755.78 --> 4756.98] of God -[4756.98 --> 4757.82] and take -[4757.82 --> 4758.94] in that -[4758.94 --> 4760.04] living -[4760.04 --> 4760.92] word -[4760.92 --> 4762.94] and then -[4762.94 --> 4763.42] lastly -[4763.42 --> 4765.76] how can -[4765.76 --> 4766.22] you -[4766.22 --> 4768.24] hear the -[4768.24 --> 4768.82] voice of -[4768.82 --> 4769.16] God -[4769.16 --> 4770.44] participate -[4770.44 --> 4772.94] in the -[4772.94 --> 4773.34] message -[4773.34 --> 4774.92] right -[4774.92 --> 4775.26] it's really -[4775.26 --> 4776.00] easy for -[4776.00 --> 4776.50] you to -[4776.50 --> 4777.04] sit in -[4777.04 --> 4777.62] your seats -[4777.62 --> 4778.30] each Sunday -[4778.30 --> 4779.54] and say -[4779.54 --> 4780.40] I'm not a -[4780.40 --> 4780.92] participant -[4780.92 --> 4782.38] I am a -[4782.38 --> 4783.14] receiver -[4783.14 --> 4784.98] or I am a -[4784.98 --> 4785.60] consumer -[4785.60 --> 4787.60] how do you -[4787.60 --> 4788.44] change even -[4788.44 --> 4789.08] the way you -[4789.08 --> 4789.68] sit -[4789.68 --> 4791.04] so that you're -[4791.04 --> 4791.82] participating -[4791.82 --> 4793.90] and experiencing -[4793.90 --> 4794.78] what it is -[4794.78 --> 4795.18] that God -[4795.18 --> 4795.50] might be -[4795.50 --> 4795.72] saying -[4795.72 --> 4796.08] and maybe -[4796.08 --> 4796.44] for some -[4796.44 --> 4796.62] of you -[4796.62 --> 4796.88] that's -[4796.88 --> 4797.24] notes -[4797.24 --> 4798.52] maybe for -[4798.52 --> 4798.80] some of -[4798.80 --> 4799.16] you that's -[4799.16 --> 4799.68] sitting close -[4799.68 --> 4799.98] to the -[4799.98 --> 4800.20] front -[4800.20 --> 4800.68] so you're -[4800.68 --> 4801.74] less distracted -[4801.74 --> 4802.16] by the -[4802.16 --> 4802.74] people around -[4802.74 --> 4802.98] you -[4802.98 --> 4803.96] clearly this -[4803.96 --> 4804.36] morning we -[4804.36 --> 4804.74] have a bunch -[4804.74 --> 4805.04] of those -[4805.04 --> 4805.36] people -[4805.36 --> 4807.34] how do you -[4807.34 --> 4808.12] participate -[4808.12 --> 4809.38] in what's -[4809.38 --> 4809.80] happening -[4809.80 --> 4810.42] here -[4810.42 --> 4811.44] so that -[4811.44 --> 4812.20] you can -[4812.20 --> 4812.96] in this -[4812.96 --> 4813.44] moment -[4813.44 --> 4814.22] hear -[4814.22 --> 4815.22] from -[4815.22 --> 4816.26] God -[4816.26 --> 4818.18] pray -[4818.18 --> 4819.68] practice -[4819.68 --> 4820.70] preach -[4820.70 --> 4821.78] partake -[4821.78 --> 4823.14] and participate -[4823.14 --> 4827.32] I know -[4827.32 --> 4828.04] for myself -[4828.04 --> 4830.30] when I do -[4830.30 --> 4831.00] these things -[4831.00 --> 4831.98] not only in -[4831.98 --> 4832.32] preparation -[4832.32 --> 4833.34] for preaching -[4833.34 --> 4834.18] but in -[4834.18 --> 4834.56] preparation -[4834.56 --> 4835.18] for listening -[4835.18 --> 4835.64] to other -[4835.64 --> 4836.14] preachers -[4836.14 --> 4837.22] that changes -[4837.22 --> 4838.12] my posture -[4838.12 --> 4840.64] changes my -[4840.64 --> 4841.06] posture -[4841.06 --> 4844.04] and I can -[4844.04 --> 4844.56] hear -[4844.56 --> 4845.62] the living -[4845.62 --> 4846.86] voice -[4846.86 --> 4847.88] of God -[4847.88 --> 4850.32] I think -[4850.32 --> 4850.66] that's what -[4850.66 --> 4851.08] we're after -[4851.08 --> 4851.50] together -[4851.50 --> 4852.12] right -[4852.12 --> 4853.42] hearing -[4853.42 --> 4854.20] the living -[4854.20 --> 4855.36] voice -[4855.36 --> 4856.64] of God -[4856.64 --> 4858.62] he's here -[4858.62 --> 4859.90] and he's -[4859.90 --> 4860.36] speaking -[4860.36 --> 4862.48] the one -[4862.48 --> 4862.74] who has -[4862.74 --> 4863.18] ears to -[4863.18 --> 4863.56] hear -[4863.56 --> 4864.84] here -[4864.84 --> 4866.22] amen -[4866.22 --> 4867.82] let's pray -[4867.82 --> 4868.18] together -[4868.18 --> 4878.42] dear -[4878.42 --> 4878.74] Jesus -[4878.74 --> 4880.24] I pray -[4880.24 --> 4880.66] that -[4880.66 --> 4881.82] the -[4881.82 --> 4886.34] meditations -[4886.34 --> 4887.18] of my -[4887.18 --> 4887.48] heart -[4887.48 --> 4887.80] that have -[4887.80 --> 4888.16] just been -[4888.16 --> 4888.46] offered -[4888.46 --> 4888.86] would be -[4888.86 --> 4889.22] pleasing -[4889.22 --> 4890.32] in your -[4890.32 --> 4890.64] sight -[4890.64 --> 4894.22] and that -[4894.22 --> 4894.44] in the -[4894.44 --> 4894.98] miracle of -[4894.98 --> 4895.50] your grace -[4895.50 --> 4895.90] you would -[4895.90 --> 4896.44] take these -[4896.44 --> 4897.00] words and -[4897.00 --> 4897.86] transform them -[4897.86 --> 4898.74] into your -[4898.74 --> 4899.04] own -[4899.04 --> 4900.62] that they -[4900.62 --> 4901.04] may take -[4901.04 --> 4901.46] root in -[4901.46 --> 4901.86] the hearts -[4901.86 --> 4902.30] of those -[4902.30 --> 4902.86] who believe -[4902.86 --> 4904.88] and that -[4904.88 --> 4905.22] they may -[4905.22 --> 4905.68] convict -[4905.68 --> 4906.58] those that -[4906.58 --> 4906.94] do not -[4906.94 --> 4907.20] yet -[4907.20 --> 4907.78] believe -[4907.78 --> 4912.32] take your -[4912.32 --> 4912.74] word -[4912.74 --> 4914.06] plant it -[4914.06 --> 4914.40] deep -[4914.40 --> 4917.12] transform our -[4917.12 --> 4917.52] lives -[4917.52 --> 4918.50] and may it -[4918.50 --> 4919.12] grow in -[4919.12 --> 4919.68] us and -[4919.68 --> 4920.22] out of us -[4920.22 --> 4920.94] bearing fruit -[4920.94 --> 4922.08] thirty sixty -[4922.08 --> 4922.70] and one -[4922.70 --> 4923.32] hundredfold -[4923.32 --> 4926.16] may we -[4926.16 --> 4926.98] hear you -[4926.98 --> 4928.14] and sing -[4928.14 --> 4929.70] in Jesus -[4929.70 --> 4930.18] name we -[4930.18 --> 4930.46] pray -[4930.46 --> 4931.72] amen -[4931.72 --> 4933.14] amen -[4933.14 --> 4957.82] restore in -[4957.82 --> 4959.70] the joy -[4959.70 --> 4960.86] of my -[4960.86 --> 4962.82] salvation -[4962.82 --> 4967.40] take me -[4967.40 --> 4968.68] back to -[4968.68 --> 4969.92] where it -[4969.92 --> 4971.98] all began -[4971.98 --> 4976.42] where all -[4976.42 --> 4977.92] i ever -[4977.92 --> 4978.92] wanted -[4978.92 --> 4980.54] was your -[4980.54 --> 4982.30] presence -[4982.30 --> 4986.62] how i -[4986.62 --> 4987.42] longed -[4987.42 --> 4988.54] to be -[4988.54 --> 4989.02] there -[4989.02 --> 4989.76] once -[4989.76 --> 4992.70] again -[4992.70 --> 4995.28] gjorde -[4995.28 --> 4996.04] god -[4996.04 --> 5001.22] That the world can't burn out and the flame -[5001.22 --> 5006.24] Till nothing between us remains -[5006.24 --> 5011.50] My life is an altar to you -[5011.50 --> 5020.50] Breathe again on the embers that burn in my heart -[5020.50 --> 5025.24] A love taken back to the start -[5025.24 --> 5031.04] My life is an altar to you -[5031.04 --> 5039.88] Renew in me a pure and willing spirit -[5039.88 --> 5049.10] Take me back to where it all began -[5049.10 --> 5057.90] Before it all became so complicated -[5057.90 --> 5069.70] How I long to be there once again -[5069.70 --> 5076.70] Light a fire that the world can't burn out and the flame -[5076.70 --> 5082.50] Till nothing between us remains -[5082.50 --> 5088.50] My life is an altar to you -[5088.50 --> 5096.50] Breathe again on the embers that burn in my heart -[5096.50 --> 5100.30] A love taken back to the start -[5100.30 --> 5106.30] My life is an altar to you -[5106.30 --> 5110.30] God, I'm sorry -[5110.30 --> 5116.30] Please forgive me -[5116.30 --> 5125.10] Lord, I need you -[5125.10 --> 5129.90] How I need you -[5129.90 --> 5134.90] To awake my soul -[5134.90 --> 5141.90] I find that the world can't burn out and the flame -[5141.90 --> 5146.90] Till nothing between us remains -[5146.90 --> 5152.70] My life is an altar to you -[5152.70 --> 5154.70] My life is an altar to you -[5154.70 --> 5160.70] Breathe again on the embers that burn in my heart -[5160.70 --> 5164.70] A love taken back to the start -[5164.70 --> 5170.50] My life is an altar to you -[5170.50 --> 5184.30] And all the earth will shout your praise -[5184.30 --> 5188.30] Our hearts will cry these bones -[5188.30 --> 5201.80] We'll sing -[5201.80 --> 5208.10] Great are you, Lord -[5208.10 --> 5216.10] And all the earth will shout your praise -[5216.10 --> 5219.90] Our hearts will cry these bones -[5219.90 --> 5228.90] Great are you, Lord -[5228.90 --> 5234.90] And all the earth will shout your praise -[5234.90 --> 5239.90] Our hearts will cry these bones will sing -[5239.90 --> 5244.90] Great are you, Lord -[5244.90 --> 5248.70] Great are you, Lord -[5248.70 --> 5253.70] It's your breath in our lungs -[5253.70 --> 5256.70] So we pour out our praise -[5256.70 --> 5258.90] We pour out our praise -[5258.90 --> 5262.70] It's your breath in our lungs -[5262.70 --> 5267.70] So we pour out our praise to you only -[5267.70 --> 5272.10] It's your breath in our lungs -[5272.10 --> 5274.90] So we pour out our praise -[5274.90 --> 5275.90] So we pour out our praise -[5275.90 --> 5280.90] It's your breath in our lungs -[5280.90 --> 5286.90] So we pour out our praise to you only -[5286.90 --> 5293.70] God, I'm sorry -[5293.70 --> 5299.70] Please forgive me -[5299.70 --> 5306.50] For when I've got cold -[5306.50 --> 5310.50] Lord, I need you -[5310.50 --> 5315.50] How I need you -[5315.50 --> 5322.50] To awake my soul -[5322.50 --> 5336.30] Just a moment -[5336.30 --> 5338.30] We will close with a blessing -[5338.30 --> 5340.00] From God himself -[5340.00 --> 5343.60] Confirmed and given to us in God's word -[5343.60 --> 5345.10] Go with two invitations -[5345.10 --> 5345.90] First, an invitation -[5345.90 --> 5346.90] First, an invitation -[5346.90 --> 5348.90] If you would like to meet someone for prayer -[5348.90 --> 5350.90] There will be someone here up at the front -[5350.90 --> 5351.90] With a tag on -[5351.90 --> 5353.90] They'd love to meet you and pray with you -[5353.90 --> 5355.10] Over whatever it is -[5355.10 --> 5356.70] Whether in celebration -[5356.70 --> 5358.50] Or in crying out -[5358.50 --> 5361.10] To meet you and pray with you -[5361.10 --> 5365.04] Second, as we stick around afterwards for fellowship -[5365.04 --> 5369.10] And maybe even extending into lunch and soup together -[5369.10 --> 5372.52] Just encourage you in your groups or tables -[5372.52 --> 5374.58] To ask each other the question -[5374.58 --> 5376.78] Where have you seen God at work? -[5377.62 --> 5380.44] What are you grateful for that God is doing in your life? -[5380.44 --> 5385.30] And then maybe if you're so willing and have the courage -[5385.30 --> 5388.38] Invite someone and share with someone -[5388.38 --> 5391.74] Where you need to see God at work -[5391.74 --> 5395.72] Where you long for him to show up and be present with you -[5395.72 --> 5400.44] Receive the blessing of our God as we go this week -[5400.44 --> 5405.16] May God himself, the God of peace -[5405.16 --> 5408.14] Sanctify you through and through -[5408.14 --> 5411.24] May your whole spirit, body, and soul -[5411.24 --> 5414.94] Be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ -[5414.94 --> 5417.54] The one who calls you is faithful -[5417.54 --> 5420.38] And he will do it -[5420.38 --> 5421.62] Amen -[5421.62 --> 5443.42] We praise thee, O God -[5443.42 --> 5446.90] For the Son of thy love -[5446.90 --> 5453.90] For Jesus who died and is now gone above -[5453.90 --> 5457.56] Hallelujah, thine the glory -[5457.56 --> 5460.56] Hallelujah, amen -[5460.56 --> 5464.80] Hallelujah, thine the glory -[5464.80 --> 5467.90] Revive us again -[5467.90 --> 5470.80] We praise thee, O God -[5470.80 --> 5473.84] We praise thee, O God -[5473.84 --> 5477.26] For thy spirit of light -[5477.26 --> 5480.72] Who has shown us thy Savior -[5480.72 --> 5484.14] And scattered our lives -[5484.14 --> 5487.64] Hallelujah, thine the glory -[5487.64 --> 5490.50] Hallelujah, amen -[5490.50 --> 5494.60] Hallelujah, thine the glory -[5494.60 --> 5504.96] Revive us again -[5504.96 --> 5507.40] Revive us again -[5507.40 --> 5514.06] Who has borne all our sins and has cleansed every stain. -[5514.62 --> 5517.74] Hallelujah, thine the glory. -[5518.16 --> 5520.64] Hallelujah, amen. -[5521.64 --> 5524.70] Hallelujah, thine the glory. -[5524.70 --> 5528.14] Revive us again. -[5529.94 --> 5533.54] Revive us again. -[5533.54 --> 5537.26] Fill each heart with thy love. -[5537.70 --> 5543.84] May each soul be rekindled with fire from above. -[5544.56 --> 5547.60] Hallelujah, thine the glory. -[5548.02 --> 5550.44] Hallelujah, amen. -[5551.44 --> 5554.48] Hallelujah, thine the glory. -[5554.96 --> 5557.66] Revive us again. -[5558.46 --> 5561.46] Hallelujah, thine the glory. -[5561.46 --> 5564.34] Hallelujah, amen. -[5565.34 --> 5568.44] Hallelujah, thine the glory. -[5568.86 --> 5571.76] Revive us again. -[5571.76 --> 5573.76] Amen. -[5574.06 --> 5578.08] So many words we sing. -[5582.14 --> 5583.16] Amen. -[5583.16 --> 5584.06] Amen. -[5584.06 --> 5584.18] Amen. -[5584.18 --> 5584.66] Amen. -[5584.66 --> 5585.16] Amen. -[5585.20 --> 5585.34] Amen. -[5585.72 --> 5586.02] Amen. -[5587.60 --> 5587.66] Amen. -[5592.84 --> 5593.18] Amen. -[5593.44 --> 5593.98] Amen. -[5594.06 --> 5594.60] Amen. -[5594.60 --> 5624.58] Thank you. -[5624.60 --> 5654.58] Thank you. -[5654.60 --> 5684.58] Thank you. -[5684.60 --> 5714.58] Thank you. -[5714.60 --> 5744.58] Thank you. -[5744.60 --> 5774.58] Thank you. -[5774.60 --> 5804.58] Thank you. -[5804.60 --> 5834.58] Thank you. -[5834.60 --> 5864.58] Thank you. -[5864.60 --> 5894.58] Thank you. -[5894.60 --> 5924.58] Thank you. -[5924.60 --> 5954.58] Thank you. -[5954.60 --> 5984.58] Thank you. -[5984.60 --> 6014.58] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, January 28, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, January 28, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3a280469d2833712a97487719f14d6046cf6e3ea..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, January 28, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,143 +0,0 @@ -• Personnel roles for a service: call to worship, confession and assurance, prayer -• Multiple "thank you" statements -• Worship song with lyrics mentioning God, King, strength, inheritance, treasure, Jesus, promises -• Welcome to Langley Emanuel CRC -• Introduction of Kevin Lover, youth pastor -• Baptism announcement: little Ava Rose -• Greetings to visitors and new attendees -• Invitation to stay after the service for coffee and refreshments -• Upcoming events at the church: walk for Gateway of Hope on February 24th, leading a worship service at Sunridge Gardens next Saturday -• Ministry updates: HCBC meeting today after the service, Worship Through the Decades event tonight at 6 p.m. -• Cadet Sunday is happening today at Living Hope CRC in Abbotsford -• Upcoming announcements and activities to be featured in the church bulletin -• Praise and worship songs about God's glory and majesty -• Psalm 19 quoted as a basis for confession -• Importance of keeping God's laws and commands -• Request to be forgiven from hidden faults and willful sins -• Desires to please God with words and actions -• Jesus Christ as the worthy subject of praise and worship -• Jesus is the name above every other name -• The worthiness and value of Jesus -• Praise and worship of God's love and faithfulness -• Baptism as a symbol of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection -• Covenant relationship between God and his children -• Infants are baptized as covenant children due to their birth into sin -• The baptism of Ava Rose Skipper is discussed -• Dave and Sheila are asked if they believe their child should be baptized as a member of God's covenant -• They are also asked to promise to instruct Ava in the Christian faith and lead her by example -• The pastor explains the significance of baptism, using water to symbolize Jesus' blood washing us clean -• Ava is baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit -• The congregation is invited to respond with a promise to love and support Dave, Sheila, Dawson, and Ava -• A certificate and book are presented as a gift to mark the occasion -• The speaker reflects on God's presence and love, describing it as "undeniable" and "unexplainable" -• They emphasize God's goodness and perfection -• The speaker discusses their personal relationship with a person named Marlene Bilinga, who is being honored for her service to the Emmanuel Church Family -• Marlene's story starts with Matthew 25 verse 35, where Jesus welcomes strangers -• The speaker shares stories about Marlene's hospitality and compassion towards others, particularly students from international backgrounds -• Marlene is being honored by the church community for her contributions and attitude -• A prayer is given for Marlene's safe travels and blessing as she moves back home to Vernon -• The church prays for Marlene's continued faithfulness and commitment to her community -• A collection is taken in support of the Refugee Committee, which Marlene is a part of -• The speaker reflects on the church's past efforts in social justice, including supporting refugees and sponsoring families -• The current refugee sponsorship program is discussed and funds are needed to bring in a new family -• Nicolai, a representative from World Renew Refugee Sponsorship, is mentioned -• Discussion of identity and who God created individuals to be -• Introduction of Hank the dog as a friend of the speaker -• Examples of Hank's language skills in French and his preferences (sticks, bacon, chasing things) -• Explanation that identity means being true to one's nature or character -• Discussion about identities and what God sees when he looks at us -• Connection between knowing Jesus and understanding one's identity -• Upcoming activities: kids' blessing, lesson in the back room -• Prayers for guidance and learning more about oneself and God -• Update on the church's full council meeting, including: - • Emmanuel By the Numbers report highlighting growth and engagement - • Classes Southwest and upcoming nominations for elders and deacons -• Church is looking for two new elders and one deacon -• Congregation members are encouraged to pray and consider serving in these roles -• Baptisms of Jane and Ava Rose Skipper were celebrated -• Support is needed for students making life decisions -• A new podcast, NorthX, was launched and Pastor Chris and others are thanked for their efforts -• Death notices were mentioned for Mary Jones' dad and Arnie Dela Cruz, with a request for comfort for the families -• Prayers were offered for church leaders to be guided by God's wisdom and strength -• The passage from a biblical text is read, quoting Romans 11:33-36. -• The Enlightenment period in the 16th to 18th century saw people begin to think about the world differently and at a greater distance from the Bible. -• The term "homo sapien" started being used during this time, with its first recorded usage by Lord Mondobo in 1774. -• Homo sapien is derived from Latin, meaning "creature or human wise". -• The concept of humanity's unique ability to think and cognate was explored by philosophers such as Descartes, who famously said "I think, therefore I am". -• The concept of humans as thinking creatures vs. desiring creatures -• James K.A. Smith's challenge to the fundamental assumption that humans are primarily thinking creatures -• The idea that humans are created by love and worship, rather than just thought -• A critique of the "brain on a stick" approach to human identity and an alternative perspective of being a "heart with a soul" -• The importance of liturgical practices in shaping our love and identity -• A proposed new motto: "Adoro ergo sum" (I worship, therefore I am) as a more accurate understanding of what it means to be human. -• Worship is acknowledging the supreme worth or value of something in our lives -• Worship is where attention goes and what we give it to reveals what we worship -• Thinking and loving come together in worship -• Worship shapes practices which shape lives -• What we worship determines who we are -• The importance of reflecting on what shapes our worship -• Good theology leads naturally into praise (doxology) -• Superficial ideas about God lead to superficial worship -• Deep understanding and knowledge of God can evoke deeper affections and worship -• Paul's teaching in Romans demonstrates how good theology turns into doxology (speaking glory or a word of praise) -• The doxology is a song sung after worship that expresses praise to God. -• The speaker will use Romans 11:34-36 as the basis for discussing the structure of right worship. -• Right worship involves recognizing that all blessings flow from God and adoring Him. -• Worship should be centered on understanding who we are in light of our understanding of who God is. -• The speaker references Irenaeus, a church father from the 2nd century, to emphasize this point. -• The glory of God is the human being fully alive -• Right worship involves exalting who God is and what He does -• Paul's theology reveals the richness and abundance of God's kindness and forbearance -• The right object of worship must be recognized to have right worship. -• The riches of God's plan for redemption and salvation -• The magnitude of God's mercy and scope of His redemption -• Paul's reaction to the depth of God's wisdom, omniscience, and other characteristics that make Him worthy of praise -• The importance of right theology in worship and doxology -• The relationship between knowing who God is and worshiping Him correctly -• The nature of true worship and its relationship to God's revelation -• The importance of not substituting personal experience for an experience of God in worship -• The role of mystery in right worship, as revealed in Paul's doxology -• The limitations of human understanding and the necessity of humility in worshiping the true God -• The distinction between what is necessary to be known about God versus knowing the whole of who God is -• The speaker questions the assumption that God's actions must make sense to humans -• This perspective is not supported by biblical examples of individuals who struggled with understanding God's ways -• Mystery and the unknown are essential aspects of human experience with God -• Examples from the Bible, such as Job, Habakkuk, Ezekiel, Mary, and baptism, illustrate this concept -• Recognizing the mystery in our experience of God is crucial for developing a balanced theology -• Necessity of engaging with God's mysteries for genuine worship -• Understanding that doubts and questions are part of faith, not a sign of weak faith -• Faith-seeking understanding and humility in the face of mystery -• The role of worship as a place to bring doubts and questions into the light -• Embracing the unknown and unknowable aspects of God's nature -• Recognizing the journey of faith as one of seeking understanding while acknowledging limitations -• The importance of questions and doubts in worship -• Paul's questions in Romans 11:34-35 as examples of questioning God -• The connection between Descartes' "cogito ergo sum" and doubting one's existence -• The value of bringing questions and doubts into the presence of God in worship -• The submission of questions to scripture and the role of the preached word in worship -• Worship is not just about what we receive from God, but also about what we give to Him. -• Humble submission to God's will and sovereignty is essential in worship. -• The traditional question "I didn't get anything out of worship" should be reframed to ask what we can bring to God during worship. -• Worship gives us a right perspective on God and ourselves, leading to fullness of life and glorifying God. -• The ultimate goal of human existence is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. -• Discussion of Paul's writings in Romans and Colossians -• Comparison between Romans 11:36 and Colossians 1:16-17 -• Christ hymn in Colossians 1, emphasizing Jesus as image of God and fullness of deity -• Importance of looking to Jesus when discussing human identity and worship -• The humility of God revealed through Jesus' life and death -• Worship is about Jesus -• The meaning of "Amen" and its use in worship -• The concept that saying "Amen" takes the truth spoken and proclaims it as one's own -• Voluntary participation in worship and acknowledging God's glory -• Worship exalts God, celebrates mystery, invites questions, requires humble submission, and acknowledges the truths of God -• Worship and exaltation of a higher power -• Mystery and unfathomability of one's identity or nature -• Submission to and seeking guidance from this power -• Prayer and petition for answers to questions and doubts -• Recognition of human limitations and need for divine guidance -• Acknowledgment of the power and majesty of a holy God -• The speaker discusses a theme of worship and adoration for God -• Invitation to pray with someone or receive prayer after the service -• Invitation to stay for fellowship and refreshments after the service -• Upcoming worship gathering at 6 p.m. -• Benediction, including prayers for protection, support, and guidance \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, January 28, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, January 28, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 1e9af91613a4c2373f92900391b9ae624f1d3812..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, January 28, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2831 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 1.00] finns -[1.00 --> 3.00] de -[3.00 --> 4.00] t -[4.00 --> 10.00] d -[13.06 --> 15.06] n -[23.06 --> 25.06] improving -[25.06 --> 26.44] c -[26.56 --> 28.56] ana -[28.56 --> 53.04] Courtney. -[53.04 --> 53.08] Courtney. -[54.92 --> 57.20] Linda is doing the call to worship. -[57.20 --> 59.94] I am doing the confession and assurance. -[60.94 --> 62.34] And Pete is doing the prayer. -[67.24 --> 70.66] And Pete is doing the prayer. -[71.22 --> 72.18] Perfect. -[72.18 --> 72.70] Thank you. -[87.20 --> 102.08] Thank you. -[102.08 --> 132.06] Thank you. -[132.08 --> 162.06] Thank you. -[162.08 --> 192.06] Thank you. -[192.08 --> 194.08] Thank you. -[222.08 --> 224.08] Thank you. -[224.08 --> 226.08] Thank you. -[226.08 --> 228.08] Thank you. -[228.08 --> 230.08] Thank you. -[230.08 --> 232.08] Thank you. -[232.08 --> 234.08] Thank you. -[234.08 --> 236.08] Thank you. -[236.08 --> 238.08] Thank you. -[238.08 --> 242.08] Thank you. -[242.08 --> 244.08] Thank you. -[244.08 --> 246.08] Thank you. -[247.08 --> 256.08] Thank you. -[256.08 --> 258.08] Thank you. -[258.08 --> 262.28] in the presence of my King. -[263.32 --> 268.52] Oh, you're the only one I ever need. -[269.98 --> 274.88] Your majesty is all I want to see. -[274.88 --> 280.88] Oh, all I want is you. -[282.72 --> 287.20] Yes, all I want is you. -[288.08 --> 293.44] Oh, I'm so long, demon-faced, -[293.44 --> 296.68] before the Lord in this place. -[297.10 --> 302.12] You're the source of my strength, Yahweh. -[303.44 --> 306.38] Forever home in your house, -[306.64 --> 309.68] I'm standing on holy ground, -[309.98 --> 314.74] where all I want has been found, Yahweh. -[318.08 --> 319.62] Oh, you're the only one, -[319.62 --> 321.42] I owe you all right now . -[321.42 --> 324.08] Cute great nice vengeance. -[331.18 --> 341.42] Partジesteuos. -[341.42 --> 371.40] Thank you. -[371.42 --> 401.40] Thank you. -[401.42 --> 403.42] Thank you. -[431.42 --> 433.42] Thank you. -[461.42 --> 463.42] Thank you. -[463.42 --> 464.42] Emma. -[464.42 --> 465.42] Emma. -[465.42 --> 467.42] Say hey or something. -[467.42 --> 469.42] Oh. -[469.42 --> 477.42] I can't wait. -[477.42 --> 479.42] I can't wait. -[479.42 --> 485.42] I can't wait. -[485.42 --> 487.42] Oh -[515.42 --> 517.42] Oh -[545.42 --> 547.42] Oh -[575.42 --> 577.42] Oh -[605.42 --> 607.42] Oh -[635.42 --> 637.42] Oh -[637.42 --> 639.42] Oh -[639.42 --> 641.42] Oh -[641.42 --> 643.42] I will rejoice -[643.42 --> 651.42] You're bound to me -[651.42 --> 653.42] Your promises -[653.42 --> 657.42] Have fallen in pleasant places -[657.42 --> 659.42] My beautiful -[659.42 --> 661.42] Inheritance -[661.42 --> 663.66] My treasure is found -[663.66 --> 664.76] In Jesus -[664.76 --> 672.34] Your galleries, your promises have fallen in pleasant places. -[673.04 --> 679.78] My beautiful inheritance, my treasure is found in Jesus. -[680.66 --> 687.30] Your galleries, your promises have fallen in pleasant places. -[687.30 --> 694.74] My beautiful inheritance, my treasure is found in Jesus. -[694.76 --> 724.74] My beautiful inheritance, my treasure is found in Jesus. -[724.76 --> 754.74] My beautiful inheritance, my treasure is found in Jesus. -[754.74 --> 757.74] In this I will rejoice. -[761.74 --> 764.74] In this I will rejoice. -[764.74 --> 766.74] In this I will rejoice. -[766.74 --> 767.74] In this I will rejoice. -[767.74 --> 771.74] In this I will rejoice. -[771.74 --> 778.74] In this I will rejoice. -[778.74 --> 781.74] In this I will rejoice. -[781.74 --> 782.74] I will rejoice. -[782.74 --> 783.74] In this I will rejoice. -[783.74 --> 784.62] Good morning, everyone. -[785.10 --> 785.78] Good morning. -[786.30 --> 789.34] Welcome to Langley, Emanuel CRC this morning. -[789.44 --> 791.88] My name is Kevin Lover and I am the youth pastor here. -[792.26 --> 794.68] And it's so good to see you here this morning. -[795.36 --> 798.10] Today we've got an exciting day ahead of us. -[798.18 --> 802.20] We have another baptism happening in our church today, the baptism of little Ava Rose. -[802.34 --> 807.06] And so if you're visiting and are here for that purpose, extra greetings to you today. -[807.52 --> 812.02] And if you're a visitor here just joining us, checking us out for the first time, we -[812.02 --> 812.72] welcome you as well. -[812.72 --> 813.90] Please stick around after the service. -[814.00 --> 815.78] We'll have some coffee and refreshments afterwards. -[816.04 --> 820.18] And if you're interested in connecting with myself or Pastor Chris or one of the other -[820.18 --> 824.24] staff here, there should be some cards in the back of the seats there you can fill out or -[824.24 --> 826.86] you can come and find us at the Connect booth after the service. -[827.64 --> 829.30] A few announcements this morning. -[829.64 --> 834.84] In February, we are participating once again in an event called Coldest Night of the Year. -[835.26 --> 838.90] There's going to be some more information coming out later this week in the bulletin and then -[838.90 --> 840.26] also next Sunday as well. -[840.26 --> 845.74] But essentially on February 24th, we will be joining a whole host of people from Langley -[845.74 --> 847.90] and going for a walk together. -[848.16 --> 854.64] And before that, raising money for the Gateway of Hope, which is a shelter for those who are -[854.64 --> 858.26] unhoused in the area and in need of help. -[858.36 --> 862.54] And so if that's something that you are interested in joining, please do consider doing that. -[862.60 --> 865.24] More information is going to be coming out, like I said, in the bulletin this week. -[865.24 --> 870.44] Or you can talk to me or my wife Nikki, who's not here today, or one of the staff here at -[870.44 --> 871.02] the church as well. -[871.06 --> 874.96] We'd love to see a team of you join us for that walk on February 24th. -[875.66 --> 880.56] Next week, Saturday, we are participating in leading a worship service at Sunridge Gardens -[880.56 --> 881.42] just up the hill. -[881.50 --> 885.68] It's a really great time to join together with some of the senior members who live there in -[885.68 --> 887.20] our church, but also as a church community. -[887.52 --> 889.44] If you're interested in coming to that, please do join us. -[889.48 --> 892.02] That'll be Saturday, this coming Saturday at 2 p.m. -[892.02 --> 894.16] And then finally, some ministry things. -[894.60 --> 898.00] Youth, we have HCBC today, but it is at an unusual time. -[898.08 --> 900.12] We are going to meet right after the service this morning. -[900.22 --> 902.00] We will run that from noon until 1. -[902.42 --> 904.12] So I have a little snack lunch for you. -[904.54 --> 908.98] We will manage just fine, and we will do HCBC today from noon until 1. -[909.26 --> 913.56] And we're doing it at that time because tonight, all of the church, you're all enjoyed it, to -[913.56 --> 917.64] join us for a worship service tonight here at 6 p.m. -[917.64 --> 922.14] as we participate in an event we are calling Worship Through the Decades. -[922.56 --> 925.26] And so it'll be an evening of worship starting at 6 p.m. -[925.26 --> 926.36] Please come join us for that. -[926.78 --> 927.94] Invite your friends, invite your neighbors. -[928.04 --> 928.96] It should be a lovely time. -[929.42 --> 932.92] And finally, if you look around and you're asking yourself, where are some of the boys? -[933.56 --> 937.04] Cadet Sunday is happening today at Living Hope CRC in Abbotsford. -[937.12 --> 942.48] And so that's where a number of our cadet leaders and our young cadets are at today as well. -[942.92 --> 945.72] So that is the run-through of the announcements today. -[945.72 --> 950.20] I am now going to invite up Pastor Chris, and he is going to lead us in God's opening blessing. -[953.90 --> 955.56] Good morning, everyone. -[959.26 --> 966.62] So later on in our sermon, I'm going to invite some voluntary participation on your behalf. -[966.86 --> 968.64] So just remember that. -[968.90 --> 971.46] Do better than what you just did when I said good morning. -[972.36 --> 973.14] Good morning. -[973.50 --> 973.90] Good morning. -[974.34 --> 975.12] Thank you. -[975.12 --> 976.32] Welcome to worship. -[976.64 --> 978.64] We are excited to gather and worship our God. -[978.72 --> 985.48] And so I'm going to invite you to stand if you are able to receive God's greeting, because he is in this place. -[985.64 --> 990.44] Our worship is centered around him, and he invites us to himself. -[990.84 --> 992.84] And so we receive his greeting. -[992.96 --> 994.98] Receive the greeting of our God. -[994.98 --> 999.14] Grace, mercy, and peace to you. -[999.14 --> 1006.50] From God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[1007.50 --> 1008.02] Amen. -[1008.02 --> 1009.74] Let's worship God this morning. -[1009.74 --> 1009.82] Amen. -[1009.82 --> 1010.34] Let's worship God this morning. -[1010.34 --> 1017.92] From Psalm 19, we hear, -[1017.92 --> 1020.28] The heavens declare the glory of God. -[1020.28 --> 1023.06] The skies proclaim the works of his hands. -[1023.52 --> 1025.72] Day after day they pour forth speech. -[1025.88 --> 1027.84] Night after night they reveal knowledge. -[1028.44 --> 1029.48] They have no speech. -[1029.62 --> 1030.62] They use no words. -[1031.02 --> 1032.48] No sound is heard from them. -[1032.66 --> 1035.54] Yet their voice goes out into all the earth. -[1035.66 --> 1037.48] Their words to the ends of the world. -[1037.48 --> 1042.38] May our voices now join all creation as we declare the glory of God. -[1042.38 --> 1043.38] Amen. -[1067.48 --> 1072.44] How great, how awesome is he. -[1073.10 --> 1075.34] Together we sing. -[1078.22 --> 1080.66] Everyone sing. -[1083.34 --> 1087.64] Holy is the Lord, God Almighty. -[1089.04 --> 1092.88] The earth is filled with its glory. -[1093.54 --> 1097.46] Holy is the Lord, God Almighty. -[1097.48 --> 1102.90] The earth is filled with His glory -[1102.90 --> 1107.88] The earth is filled with His glory -[1107.88 --> 1118.60] We stand and lift up our hands -[1118.60 --> 1123.12] For the joy of the Lord is our strength -[1123.12 --> 1129.08] We bow down and worship Him now -[1129.08 --> 1133.12] How great, how awesome is He -[1133.12 --> 1135.90] Together we sing -[1135.90 --> 1142.50] Everyone sing -[1142.50 --> 1147.84] Holy is the Lord, the God Almighty -[1147.84 --> 1152.90] The earth is filled with His glory -[1152.90 --> 1157.86] Holy is the Lord, the God Almighty -[1157.86 --> 1162.86] The earth is filled with His glory -[1162.86 --> 1167.86] The earth is filled with His glory -[1167.86 --> 1171.82] It's rising up -[1171.82 --> 1177.82] All around is the anthem of the Lord's renown -[1177.82 --> 1181.78] It's rising up -[1181.78 --> 1189.74] All around is the anthem of the Lord's renown -[1189.74 --> 1194.70] Together we sing -[1194.70 --> 1199.66] Everyone sing -[1199.66 --> 1204.66] Holy is the Lord, the God Almighty -[1204.66 --> 1209.66] The earth is filled with His glory -[1209.66 --> 1214.66] Holy is the Lord, the God Almighty -[1214.66 --> 1219.62] The earth is filled with His glory -[1219.62 --> 1224.62] The earth is filled with His glory -[1224.62 --> 1230.58] Holy is the Lord, the God Almighty -[1230.58 --> 1232.58] The earth is filled with His glory -[1232.58 --> 1234.58] The earth is filled with His glory -[1234.58 --> 1244.54] The earth is filled with His glory -[1244.54 --> 1246.54] The earth is filled with His glory -[1246.54 --> 1248.54] The earth is filled with His glory -[1248.54 --> 1252.50] Lord of all creation -[1252.50 --> 1258.46] Of water, earth and earth -[1258.46 --> 1272.42] And sky -[1272.42 --> 1286.38] Heavens are your tattered and gold -[1286.38 --> 1292.38] Heavens are your tattered and gold -[1292.38 --> 1310.34] Glory to the Lord, the Lord Almighty -[1310.34 --> 1313.00] He plends Your majesty -[1313.00 --> 1320.34] You are holy, holy -[1320.34 --> 1325.56] Lord of heaven and earth -[1325.56 --> 1332.34] Lord of heaven and earth -[1332.34 --> 1337.56] Early in the morning -[1337.56 --> 1344.14] I will celebrate the light -[1344.14 --> 1349.34] When I stumble in the darkness -[1349.34 --> 1356.34] I will call You day by night -[1356.34 --> 1360.84] God of waters beyond our galaxy -[1360.84 --> 1368.12] You are holy, holy -[1368.12 --> 1372.72] You live earth to cleanse Your majesty -[1372.72 --> 1380.06] You are holy, holy -[1380.06 --> 1385.08] Lord of heaven and earth -[1385.08 --> 1391.36] Lord of heaven and earth -[1391.36 --> 1394.90] Hallelujah -[1394.90 --> 1399.36] To the Lord of heaven and earth -[1399.36 --> 1400.96] Hallelujah -[1400.96 --> 1405.56] To the Lord of heaven and earth -[1405.56 --> 1407.36] Hallelujah -[1407.36 --> 1413.64] Lord of heaven and earth -[1413.64 --> 1419.24] You are holy, holy -[1419.24 --> 1421.24] Holy, holy -[1421.24 --> 1422.24] Holy -[1422.24 --> 1425.52] The mercy of God and earth -[1425.52 --> 1431.12] You are holy, holy -[1431.12 --> 1433.12] Holy -[1433.12 --> 1438.52] Lord of heaven and earth -[1438.52 --> 1440.52] Lord of heaven and earth -[1440.52 --> 1444.52] Lord of heaven and earth -[1444.52 --> 1451.80] Our confession this morning comes from Psalm 19 -[1451.80 --> 1453.08] Where it says -[1453.08 --> 1455.76] The law of the Lord is perfect -[1455.76 --> 1457.84] Refreshing the soul -[1457.84 --> 1460.98] The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy -[1460.98 --> 1463.06] Making wise the simple -[1463.06 --> 1466.34] The precepts of the Lord are right -[1466.34 --> 1468.04] Giving joy to the heart -[1468.04 --> 1471.12] The commands of the Lord are radiant -[1471.12 --> 1473.30] Giving light to the eyes -[1473.30 --> 1475.78] The fear of the Lord is pure -[1475.78 --> 1477.06] Enduring forever -[1477.06 --> 1479.86] The decrees of the Lord are firm -[1479.86 --> 1482.14] And all of them are righteous -[1482.14 --> 1484.92] They are more precious than gold -[1484.92 --> 1487.68] More than much more pure gold -[1487.68 --> 1489.76] They are sweeter than honey -[1489.76 --> 1491.54] Than honey from the honeycomb -[1491.54 --> 1494.62] By them your servant is warned -[1494.62 --> 1497.54] In keeping them there is great reward -[1497.54 --> 1500.86] But who can discern their own errors -[1500.86 --> 1503.24] Forgive my hidden faults -[1503.24 --> 1506.90] Keep your servant also from willful sins -[1506.90 --> 1509.24] May they not rule over me -[1509.24 --> 1511.48] Then I will be blameless -[1511.48 --> 1513.94] Innocent of great transgression -[1513.94 --> 1516.80] May these words of my mouth -[1516.80 --> 1518.78] And this meditation of my heart -[1518.78 --> 1520.78] Be pleasing in your sight -[1520.78 --> 1523.56] Lord, my rock and my redeemer -[1527.54 --> 1535.80] Innocent of great transgression -[1535.80 --> 1537.04] There are manynelows -[1537.04 --> 1538.36] The 몸 is Sek都是 -[1538.36 --> 1540.80] That he is 젊은한zen -[1540.80 --> 1555.90] May he deox -[1555.90 --> 1558.86] We could ever sing -[1558.86 --> 1563.32] Worthy of all the praise -[1563.32 --> 1565.40] We could ever bring -[1565.40 --> 1569.96] Worthy of every wealth -[1569.96 --> 1571.68] We could ever bring -[1571.68 --> 1573.76] We bid for you -[1573.76 --> 1583.74] Jesus, be the brother -[1583.74 --> 1585.64] Every other knee -[1585.64 --> 1590.58] Jesus, be the only one -[1590.58 --> 1592.70] We could ever sing -[1592.70 --> 1597.36] Worthy of every wealth -[1597.36 --> 1599.08] We could ever bring -[1599.08 --> 1601.26] We bid for you -[1601.26 --> 1604.80] We bid for you -[1604.80 --> 1612.16] Holy, there is no one like you -[1612.16 --> 1615.48] There is none beside you -[1615.48 --> 1620.14] Open up my eyes in wonder -[1620.14 --> 1622.20] And show me -[1622.20 --> 1625.50] Who you are and fill me -[1625.50 --> 1628.64] With your heart and beating -[1628.64 --> 1633.30] Give it in love to those around me -[1633.30 --> 1641.96] Jesus, the name of the Lord -[1641.96 --> 1653.80] Jesus, the name above every other name -[1653.80 --> 1660.52] Jesus, the only one we could ever sing -[1660.52 --> 1660.86] We could ever sing -[1660.86 --> 1665.18] Worthy of every wealth -[1665.18 --> 1666.64] We could ever bring -[1666.64 --> 1668.96] We bid for you -[1668.96 --> 1671.86] We bid for you -[1671.86 --> 1679.52] Holy, there is no one like you -[1679.52 --> 1682.92] There is none beside you -[1682.92 --> 1683.52] Holy, there is no one like you -[1683.52 --> 1685.02] There is none beside you -[1685.02 --> 1693.68] Who you are and fill me -[1693.68 --> 1696.04] With your heart and beating -[1696.04 --> 1701.56] Give your love to those around me -[1701.56 --> 1706.22] And I will build my life -[1706.22 --> 1731.12] I will build my life -[1731.12 --> 1732.12] Upon your love -[1732.12 --> 1734.28] Upon your love -[1734.28 --> 1738.84] It is a Lord's foundation -[1738.84 --> 1739.84] And I will build my life -[1739.84 --> 1743.50] And I will build my life -[1743.50 --> 1744.12] And I will build my life -[1744.12 --> 1746.56] In you alone -[1746.56 --> 1752.26] And I will not be shaken -[1752.26 --> 1755.72] And I will build my life -[1755.72 --> 1759.98] Upon your love -[1759.98 --> 1777.98] There is none beside you -[1777.98 --> 1789.58] Open up my eyes -[1789.58 --> 1790.58] Give your love -[1790.58 --> 1791.24] In you alone -[1791.24 --> 1793.24] And show me -[1793.24 --> 1794.86] Who you are -[1794.86 --> 1796.52] And fill me -[1796.52 --> 1799.44] With your heart and beating -[1799.44 --> 1805.00] Give your love to those around me -[1805.00 --> 1816.96] Father, forgive our hidden faults -[1816.96 --> 1821.34] And keep us from willfully sinning against you -[1821.34 --> 1825.52] May the words of our mouth -[1825.52 --> 1828.46] And the meditations of our heart -[1828.46 --> 1829.98] Be pleasing to you, Lord -[1829.98 --> 1831.88] My rock and my redeemer -[1831.88 --> 1832.84] Amen -[1832.84 --> 1833.38] Amen -[1833.38 --> 1845.86] Amen -[1845.86 --> 1875.84] Great is thy faithfulness, O God, -[1875.84 --> 1877.46] my Father. -[1878.40 --> 1885.44] There is no shadow of turning with thee. -[1886.08 --> 1891.58] Thou changest strong, but thou crushest safe, -[1891.58 --> 1893.08] fail not. -[1893.48 --> 1900.00] And thou hast seen, thou forever wilt be. -[1900.00 --> 1908.00] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[1908.38 --> 1914.48] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[1914.48 --> 1922.02] All I have needed thy hand hath provided. -[1923.12 --> 1929.48] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto thee. -[1929.48 --> 1939.66] Summer and winter and springtime and harvest, -[1939.66 --> 1946.78] sun, moon, and stars in their courses above. -[1947.18 --> 1953.72] Joy with all nature in manifold witness, -[1953.72 --> 1961.72] To thy great faithfulness mercy hath come. -[1961.72 --> 1969.18] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[1969.28 --> 1975.72] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[1975.72 --> 1982.72] All I have needed thy hand hath provided. -[1982.72 --> 1990.72] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto thee. -[1990.72 --> 1991.72] Lord, unto thee. -[1991.72 --> 1992.72] Amen. -[1992.72 --> 2000.72] Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth. -[2000.72 --> 2008.18] Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide. -[2008.18 --> 2015.22] Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow. -[2015.22 --> 2022.22] Blessings all mine with ten thousand mercies I see. -[2022.22 --> 2030.22] Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness. -[2030.22 --> 2031.22] Great is thy faithfulness. -[2031.22 --> 2037.22] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[2037.22 --> 2044.22] All I have needed thy hand hath provided. -[2044.22 --> 2052.22] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto thee. -[2052.22 --> 2056.22] Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto thee. -[2056.22 --> 2058.22] Thank you, Jesus. -[2058.22 --> 2060.22] Amen. -[2060.22 --> 2062.22] Amen. -[2062.22 --> 2063.22] Amen. -[2063.22 --> 2064.22] Amen. -[2064.22 --> 2065.22] Amen. -[2065.22 --> 2066.22] Amen. -[2066.22 --> 2067.22] Amen. -[2067.22 --> 2074.22] This morning, as part of our worship, we get to administer and participate in the -[2074.22 --> 2078.22] sacrament of baptism for one of our little children. -[2078.22 --> 2084.22] Now, as we come to the sacrament of baptism, let me be clear, we do not believe that the -[2084.22 --> 2089.22] water itself cleanses from sin. -[2089.22 --> 2095.22] Rather, what we're saying here is that this water symbolizes for us Jesus' life, death, -[2095.22 --> 2100.92] and resurrection and the promise of forgiveness by that life death and -[2100.92 --> 2110.64] resurrection. This child, Ava, is born with a sinful nature into sin and still -[2110.64 --> 2116.52] the promises of God are offered to her for forgiveness and new life by the Holy -[2116.52 --> 2124.56] Spirit. So we baptize infants not out of superstition or because we like cute -[2124.56 --> 2130.10] babies, we baptize them because they are covenant children and therefore ought to -[2130.10 --> 2136.28] be baptized. This idea of covenant is rooted in God's promise to Abraham and -[2136.28 --> 2143.94] sealed in the sign of circumcision and in baptism now our triune God seals the -[2143.94 --> 2150.32] promise of our adoption as his children making for us a new identity in Jesus -[2150.32 --> 2156.90] Christ. And so we baptize in obedience to Christ's command in line with the history -[2156.90 --> 2162.18] of the Christian church and the teaching of the Bible throughout God's redemptive -[2162.18 --> 2168.62] work from creation until the day Jesus Christ returns. Baptism signifies for us -[2168.62 --> 2175.22] the inclusion into the covenant community and symbolizes the cleansing of sin. We -[2175.22 --> 2180.26] pray this morning that Ava embraces her covenant privileges, that she will -[2180.26 --> 2186.04] acknowledge her Lord all the days of her life, and that we will be used of God to -[2186.04 --> 2191.46] grow that faith in her. Dave and Sheila, I'm going to invite you guys up to the front -[2191.46 --> 2210.92] with Dawson and Ava. In presenting Ava for baptism, I have two questions that I'm going to ask you, -[2211.08 --> 2217.42] and these are the same questions that have been asked of generations of Christians before. Likely, -[2217.42 --> 2224.12] your parents were asked these same questions when you both were baptized. Do you believe that your -[2224.12 --> 2229.54] children, though sinful by nature, are received by God in Christ as members of his covenant and -[2229.54 --> 2236.62] therefore ought to be baptized? And second, do you promise in reliance on the Holy Spirit and with the -[2236.62 --> 2243.10] help of the Christian community to do all in your power to instruct Ava and all your children in the -[2243.10 --> 2249.12] Christian faith and to lead them by your example into the life of Christian discipleship? Dave and -[2249.12 --> 2257.96] Sheila, what is your answer? Amen. We do with God's help. We all need God's help. Our Lord Jesus said, -[2258.10 --> 2263.04] let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as -[2263.04 --> 2268.58] these. And so as is our practice, if you are a young child here or young at heart, you're invited to -[2268.58 --> 2274.70] come up and just have a seat here on the floor so you can see firsthand and close what is happening -[2274.70 --> 2284.50] over here. Awesome. Malachi, why don't you just lean right in here and maybe you'll get in the splash -[2284.50 --> 2294.40] zone. So in just a moment, guys, we're going to take this water and pour it over Ava's head. And just -[2294.40 --> 2300.96] like many of you probably had a shower or a bath last night in order to come to church, this water -[2300.96 --> 2309.40] symbolizes for us how Jesus' blood washes us and makes us clean. This water is one of the ways that -[2309.40 --> 2317.44] Jesus writes his name on our foreheads as his covenant children. And so we mark that together in worship. -[2317.44 --> 2330.76] Ava Rose Skipper, I baptize you in the name of the Father, in the name of the Son, -[2332.60 --> 2335.62] and the name of the Holy Spirit. Amen. -[2335.62 --> 2335.82] Amen. -[2335.82 --> 2335.90] Amen. -[2346.10 --> 2349.18] Water was a little colder this morning than it has been in the past. -[2352.94 --> 2359.24] As we have participated and witnessed God's action towards us in the sacrament, we now have an -[2359.24 --> 2367.68] opportunity to respond to that action of God by also offering a promise on behalf of you representing -[2367.68 --> 2373.58] the church family everywhere. And so I'm going to invite you, congregation, to stand. I will ask you -[2373.58 --> 2382.52] a question and then invite you to respond with the phrase, we do with God's help. And so do you, -[2382.52 --> 2387.28] church family here at Langley, Emanuel, and friends and family who have come in support, -[2387.28 --> 2393.64] do you promise to love and encourage and support Dave and Sheila, Dawson, and now Ava, -[2394.20 --> 2400.52] by welcoming them into our church family, by teaching the gospel of God's love, and by being -[2400.52 --> 2405.88] an example of Christian faith and character, and by giving in strong support of God's family -[2405.88 --> 2409.42] in fellowship, prayer, and service? What is your answer? -[2410.06 --> 2411.70] We do with God's help. -[2412.22 --> 2414.66] Amen. Amen. You may have a seat. -[2417.28 --> 2423.94] Amen. I invite you to take advantage of that promise offered to you this morning. May I -[2423.94 --> 2426.22] take her for a little walk? Yeah. -[2429.06 --> 2430.18] Hi, sweet pea. -[2432.64 --> 2434.18] Hey, I know. -[2436.88 --> 2442.36] We got to hang out already on Tuesday when Sheila was here for coffee break, so she knows me. -[2442.36 --> 2452.68] Today, in baptism, we mark the beginning of what we hope to be a journey of faithful response -[2452.68 --> 2461.00] for Ava. And yet, we know that all of us fall short of God's design and God's plan, and so may -[2461.00 --> 2469.32] you be a community of grace and encouragement, a community that fosters faith in her as she looks to -[2469.32 --> 2476.74] you for help and for strength and for growth. Today begins a journey for her that we hope will -[2476.74 --> 2483.86] culminate in seeing her stand in front of us in however many years the Lord takes to work this in her, -[2484.60 --> 2493.14] that she then proclaims her faith for herself. She takes advantage of the promise spoken over her today -[2493.14 --> 2502.10] and makes that promise her own. But she cannot do that alone. None of us can do that alone. We journey -[2502.10 --> 2511.58] in covenant community together. And so even as I stand here with her, you also hold her in faith. -[2512.54 --> 2519.30] And so receive the charge and the call of God and remember her in your prayers so that we can -[2519.30 --> 2526.18] celebrate the goodness of God together. Amen? Amen. We're going to stand and sing -[2526.18 --> 2529.92] together. Good, good Father. -[2536.70 --> 2543.02] Before we stand and sing, we do have a gift to mark this occasion. And so Eric Hubert has a certificate -[2543.02 --> 2548.68] and a little book for Ava. Encourage you to read that with her and to remind her of what took place -[2548.68 --> 2553.40] on this day together. God bless. Let's stand together. -[2553.40 --> 2553.46] Amen. -[2553.46 --> 2553.50] Amen. -[2553.50 --> 2553.54] Amen. -[2553.54 --> 2555.54] Amen. -[2555.54 --> 2557.54] Amen. -[2557.54 --> 2558.06] Amen. -[2558.06 --> 2558.54] Amen. -[2558.54 --> 2559.54] Amen. -[2559.54 --> 2560.54] Amen. -[2560.54 --> 2561.54] Amen. -[2561.54 --> 2562.54] Amen. -[2562.54 --> 2563.54] Amen. -[2563.54 --> 2564.54] Amen. -[2564.54 --> 2565.54] Amen. -[2565.54 --> 2566.54] Amen. -[2566.54 --> 2567.54] Amen. -[2567.54 --> 2568.54] Amen. -[2568.54 --> 2569.54] Amen. -[2569.54 --> 2570.54] Amen. -[2570.54 --> 2570.58] Amen. -[2573.02 --> 2574.28] Amen. -[2574.28 --> 2584.50] Ever heard a thousand stories I want, they paint your life, and I have heard a tender -[2584.50 --> 2596.18] razor of love, in the dead of my head tonight, I tell thee that you will see me not -[2596.18 --> 2598.18] I'm never alone. -[2600.00 --> 2603.58] The good, good mother, it's who you are. -[2604.22 --> 2605.74] It's who you are. -[2606.44 --> 2608.18] It's who you are. -[2608.54 --> 2610.36] And I love you. -[2610.88 --> 2612.14] It's who I am. -[2612.80 --> 2614.30] It's who I am. -[2614.96 --> 2617.46] It's who I am. -[2620.10 --> 2626.10] I have seen many searching for answers. -[2626.18 --> 2634.18] Far and wide when I know we're all searching for answers. -[2635.14 --> 2644.18] Only you know my ways to know just what we need before we say a word. -[2645.70 --> 2648.30] It's who you are. -[2648.94 --> 2650.38] It's who you are. -[2651.06 --> 2652.18] It's who you are. -[2652.18 --> 2654.18] It's who you are. -[2654.18 --> 2656.18] It's who you are. -[2656.18 --> 2658.18] It's who you are. -[2658.18 --> 2660.18] It's who I am. -[2660.18 --> 2662.18] It's who I am. -[2662.18 --> 2664.18] It's who I am. -[2664.18 --> 2666.18] It's who you are. -[2666.18 --> 2668.18] It's who you are. -[2668.18 --> 2670.18] It's who you are. -[2670.18 --> 2675.78] Wow -[2683.30 --> 2683.78] you are -[2683.78 --> 2713.76] You are perfect in all of your ways, you are. -[2713.78 --> 2721.82] Love so undeniable, I can hardly speak. -[2722.42 --> 2732.66] Peace so unexplainable, I can hardly think that you call me. -[2732.66 --> 2736.86] Be first, you as you call me. -[2737.24 --> 2740.98] Be first, you as you call me. -[2741.34 --> 2744.10] Be first, you into love. -[2744.54 --> 2748.22] Love, love, love, good, good Father. -[2748.70 --> 2750.00] It's who you are. -[2750.50 --> 2751.92] It's who you are. -[2752.62 --> 2753.66] It's who you are. -[2753.66 --> 2763.52] Help, love, love, love, love, love. -[2763.52 --> 2764.44] Love, love, love, good Father. -[2765.20 --> 2766.62] It's who you are. -[2766.62 --> 2768.60] It's who you are. -[2769.22 --> 2770.96] It's who you are. -[2771.34 --> 2771.94] Help, love, love, love, love, love, love. -[2771.94 --> 2775.34] Love, love, love, love, love, love, love. -[2775.34 --> 2778.20] Love, love, love, love, love, love, love, love. -[2778.20 --> 2780.20] Who I am. -[2799.20 --> 2801.20] Good morning. -[2801.20 --> 2813.20] As some of you are more know, Marlene Bilinga is her official last Sunday at Emanuel Church Family. -[2813.20 --> 2818.20] And I was asked to speak a few words about Marlene. -[2818.20 --> 2825.20] And I wanted to start with Matthew 25 verse 35 and that's where my story starts. -[2825.20 --> 2828.20] And her story starts. -[2828.20 --> 2832.20] Matthew 25 verse 35 says, -[2832.20 --> 2836.20] I was a stranger and you invited me in. -[2838.20 --> 2842.20] So together with my husband Bert and our family, -[2842.20 --> 2852.20] we've known Marlene and her family and this church family, Emmanuel, our loving church family, -[2852.20 --> 2854.20] for more than 25 years. -[2854.20 --> 2860.20] But years ago, in the early 90s, when our four kids were little, -[2860.20 --> 2870.20] I met Marlene as a friendly neighbor, down the street, with her four little blonde boys in tow, -[2870.20 --> 2874.20] at our local outdoor swimming pool. -[2874.20 --> 2880.20] Who knew that a few years later, we as family would meet again, Marlene, -[2880.20 --> 2890.20] now as the official friendly face of welcome to our Langley Christian School community. -[2890.20 --> 2900.20] I will never forget how she prayed with me on the phone, making us feel welcome as strangers. -[2900.20 --> 2906.20] As we became colleagues and our children attended school together and we did life together, -[2906.20 --> 2908.20] at home and at school and at church, -[2908.20 --> 2916.20] Marlene continued to model hospitality to strangers, to new students in her job, -[2916.20 --> 2920.20] as coordinator of international students. -[2920.20 --> 2928.20] She administered, she organized, she fostered connecting with the other. -[2928.20 --> 2934.20] She planned conferences and for students and teachers alike. -[2934.20 --> 2938.20] She planned meals together and special events. -[2938.20 --> 2944.20] She was also Mrs. Bailinka, Mrs. Mom at the office. -[2944.20 --> 2950.20] She was a shoulder to cry on, but above all, a listening ear, -[2950.20 --> 2962.20] especially to all the students who came from Korea, China, Japan, Macau, Burma, Cuba, over the years. -[2962.20 --> 2972.20] In other words, she was a presence, a compassionate presence, a home base for those far from home. -[2972.20 --> 2980.20] Throughout all the chapters of life together, as family and as church family, -[2980.20 --> 2990.20] through springtime joys and winter sorrows, floods and fires and loss, -[2990.20 --> 2996.20] being in the choir singing together, being in the choir singing together and being still together. -[2996.20 --> 3004.20] Marlene has shown to be an example of being a steadfast student of God's word -[3004.20 --> 3014.20] and wanted to share God's story of redemption. -[3014.20 --> 3024.20] In her compassionate way and care of welfare for others, she also worked for the Society of Christian Schools -[3024.20 --> 3030.20] and has been involved in bringing refugees to a new world here. -[3030.20 --> 3040.20] And she's been involved in coffee break and listening to others in need and responding and caring. -[3040.20 --> 3046.20] To sum up in the words of another fellow friend and church member, -[3046.20 --> 3054.20] Marlene has contributed a pleasant, caring attitude to Emmanuel. -[3054.20 --> 3060.20] She is quick to listen, quick to understand, and quick to empathize. -[3060.20 --> 3068.20] We will all miss her faithful, cheery presence as she moves back home to Vernon. -[3068.20 --> 3076.20] And like I said to her this morning, you will now have two homes because you can always feel at home here. -[3076.20 --> 3086.20] And I just wanted to end with another psalm, one that our family always has used when we depart on a journey. -[3086.20 --> 3090.20] It's Psalm 121. -[3090.20 --> 3096.20] I lift up my eyes to the hills, whether the hills are here or in Vernon. -[3096.20 --> 3100.20] Where does our help come from? -[3100.20 --> 3104.20] Our help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth. -[3104.20 --> 3107.20] He will watch over your life, Marlene. -[3107.20 --> 3112.20] He will watch over your coming and your going from now and evermore. -[3112.20 --> 3114.20] Thank you. -[3116.20 --> 3118.20] Thank you. -[3118.20 --> 3120.20] Thank you. -[3125.20 --> 3127.20] Marlene, we would like to pray for you. -[3127.20 --> 3130.20] Is it too much to ask for you to come to the front? -[3130.20 --> 3132.20] No, it's not too much? -[3132.20 --> 3133.20] Would you come to the front? -[3133.20 --> 3139.20] I'm going to ask if you would like, if you have supported Marlene as an elder or a pastor, -[3139.20 --> 3142.20] if you have walked a journey of faith with her, if you would also come up to the front -[3142.20 --> 3146.20] and we can surround her in the laying on of hands in prayer as well. -[3146.20 --> 3163.20] If you would like to, where you're seated, also hold out a hand as a sign of the Spirit flowing through you into Marlene, -[3163.20 --> 3179.20] and blessing her on this journey ahead, I invite you to do so as well. -[3179.20 --> 3183.20] Let's pray together. -[3183.20 --> 3189.20] Holy God, this morning we are amazed at your covenant faithfulness to us. -[3189.20 --> 3202.20] We see it in little Ava's baptism, and we see it in the testimony of faithfulness in Marlene's life and her commitment to this church family. -[3202.20 --> 3208.20] We pray now your blessing upon Marlene. -[3208.20 --> 3214.20] We pray that as she goes to Vernon and plants deep roots in community there, -[3214.20 --> 3218.20] alongside deep roots she already has planted with family, -[3218.20 --> 3222.20] we pray, Lord God, that you would bless her and keep her. -[3222.20 --> 3229.20] That you would continue to make your face to shine upon her and be gracious to her. -[3229.20 --> 3237.20] That you, Lord God, would turn your face toward her and in all things give her your peace. -[3237.20 --> 3242.20] We pray this blessing in the name of Jesus Christ alone. -[3242.20 --> 3243.20] Amen. -[3243.20 --> 3245.20] Amen. -[3257.20 --> 3258.20] Good morning. -[3258.20 --> 3262.20] Good morning, everyone. -[3262.20 --> 3264.20] I'm representing the deacons here. -[3264.20 --> 3268.20] I'm not a deacon, but Lene asked me to speak to the collection for this morning. -[3268.20 --> 3272.20] That was very touching, Marlene. -[3272.20 --> 3276.20] Marlene is on the Refugee Committee. -[3276.20 --> 3278.20] The collection today is for the Refugee Committee. -[3278.20 --> 3284.20] I want to, yesterday, a couple, two things happened. -[3284.20 --> 3290.20] One is, 13 years ago our pastor, Bill Verstate, passed away. -[3290.20 --> 3297.20] And the reason I'm bringing this up this morning is, Bill was with Life Water Canada. -[3297.20 --> 3303.20] He also had a, had a, felt a mission and a calling for doing something more than just the church. -[3303.20 --> 3311.20] And so he was involved in, in doing a work of bringing water to communities that didn't have water. -[3311.20 --> 3319.20] Um, yesterday also was, um, remembrance, world remembrance for the Holocaust day. -[3319.20 --> 3337.20] And, um, the reason I'm, I'm bringing that up is, uh, obviously Israel's in, in Palestine, the Palestinians are in, in, uh, maybe I should say Hamas, are, um, in huge conflict right now. -[3337.20 --> 3347.20] But, before and during the Second World War, over six million Jews were, um, were killed and murdered. -[3347.20 --> 3359.20] And, um, the reason I raise this is, even in Canada, there was a boatload of Jewish people who would come here to try to escape the, uh, what was going on in Germany. -[3359.20 --> 3362.20] And, and our country turned them back. -[3362.20 --> 3372.20] And, uh, so I think we're very sensitive, uh, and I noticed in this church too, we've been sensitive to anything that has to do with social justice. -[3372.20 --> 3380.20] And that's why since, uh, 2015, we've supported the refugee sponsorship program in our church. -[3380.20 --> 3387.20] And, uh, I feel, I feel very, very, I feel very, very humbled by that, by that. -[3387.20 --> 3388.20] But I also feel very, very good. -[3388.20 --> 3391.20] Because that's an important aspect of our church's ministry. -[3391.20 --> 3394.20] Currently, we are sponsoring a family. -[3394.20 --> 3400.20] We, um, there's a, they're in southern Lebanon at the moment. -[3400.20 --> 3404.20] And if you follow the news carefully, the Hezbollah is there. -[3404.20 --> 3410.20] And the Hezbollah are related to the Hamas, whose basic mission is to destroy Israel. -[3410.20 --> 3422.20] They, which has meant all kinds of disruption, which means there's a lot of people looking for asylum, that are looking to get out of countries where there's this persecution. -[3422.20 --> 3426.20] And so, in all, one small way, we can be a part of that. -[3426.20 --> 3429.20] So, we're asking you to continue to support it. -[3429.20 --> 3433.20] We have already 30,000 in the bank, over 30,000 in the bank. -[3433.20 --> 3438.20] We need, the government now expects us to have enough to bring in a family. -[3438.20 --> 3441.20] So, slowly but surely, it's adding up. -[3441.20 --> 3443.20] And we want to thank you for your faithfulness. -[3443.20 --> 3456.20] Sometimes this gets confused with the Dean of Nicolai, who's our classes representative in the Lower Mainland, or British Columbia, who works with, uh, connection with World Renew. -[3456.20 --> 3458.20] And World Renew Refugee Sponsorship. -[3458.20 --> 3461.20] But this one is specific to our church. -[3461.20 --> 3463.20] Thank you very much. -[3463.20 --> 3488.20] Thank you very much. -[3488.20 --> 3516.20] Thank you very much. -[3518.20 --> 3546.20] Oh Martine, thank you very much. -[3546.20 --> 3551.10] I'm destined for you. -[3555.10 --> 3564.02] And I'm lost without you. -[3576.20 --> 3606.18] I'm lost without you. -[3606.20 --> 3636.18] I'm lost without you. -[3636.20 --> 3646.20] And I'm destined for you. -[3646.20 --> 3658.20] And I'm lost without you. -[3658.20 --> 3672.20] And I'm destined for you. -[3672.20 --> 3686.20] And I'm lost without you. -[3686.20 --> 3702.20] You are the air I breathe. -[3702.20 --> 3710.20] You are the air I breathe. -[3710.20 --> 3725.20] I would love to invite all of the kids to come up to the front. -[3725.36 --> 3727.80] Come and join me up here if you will. -[3727.80 --> 3732.80] Here you all come. -[3734.20 --> 3734.94] Here you all. -[3734.96 --> 3736.06] He's a little shy though. -[3737.26 --> 3740.62] Now, welcome up here. -[3740.62 --> 3743.76] I see mostly familiar faces. -[3744.00 --> 3745.24] Some new faces. -[3745.62 --> 3748.68] I have a friend that usually joins me up here. -[3749.02 --> 3751.02] For you who have come up before, who is that? -[3751.62 --> 3752.26] Hank. -[3752.62 --> 3754.12] He's my dog friend. -[3754.22 --> 3755.50] But he's a little bit shy. -[3756.10 --> 3759.44] So can you all say good morning, Hank? -[3759.90 --> 3761.62] Good morning, Hank. -[3761.62 --> 3763.62] Hi, everyone. -[3763.62 --> 3764.32] Hi, everyone. -[3765.82 --> 3767.16] How are you? -[3768.58 --> 3769.26] Good. -[3769.68 --> 3770.74] Hank, how was France? -[3771.06 --> 3771.66] Great. -[3772.48 --> 3776.16] I went to France over Christmas break, apparently. -[3777.16 --> 3778.42] And was it fun? -[3778.64 --> 3779.06] Mm-hmm. -[3779.68 --> 3781.02] Did you learn a new language? -[3781.66 --> 3782.08] Yep. -[3782.58 --> 3783.60] What was that language? -[3784.28 --> 3784.80] French. -[3785.34 --> 3786.52] Can you give us an example? -[3787.32 --> 3789.94] Je m'appelle Hank. -[3790.90 --> 3792.20] Pretty good, Hank. -[3792.42 --> 3793.16] Anything else? -[3793.76 --> 3794.16] Mm-mm. -[3794.66 --> 3795.00] Oh, no? -[3795.08 --> 3795.52] Why not? -[3795.92 --> 3798.06] It was hard to talk without you there. -[3798.28 --> 3798.50] Oh. -[3799.58 --> 3800.96] I guess that makes sense. -[3802.08 --> 3805.78] We are going to talk about something called... -[3805.78 --> 3808.52] It's a big word, and I want to see if you kids know what it means. -[3809.14 --> 3809.40] All right? -[3809.40 --> 3812.36] We're going to talk about identity today. -[3812.78 --> 3813.70] What's identity? -[3814.22 --> 3815.52] What does identity mean? -[3816.06 --> 3816.76] Anybody know? -[3816.88 --> 3817.80] It's a big word. -[3818.80 --> 3819.58] Hank, do you know? -[3819.84 --> 3820.24] Oh, yeah? -[3821.36 --> 3825.24] Identity means that anything that you... -[3825.24 --> 3829.86] That's right. -[3829.86 --> 3831.86] So, like, identity is who... -[3832.52 --> 3833.52] Do you want to try Malachi? -[3837.16 --> 3838.90] You don't think Hank learned how to... -[3838.90 --> 3840.00] How did you get to France? -[3840.94 --> 3841.30] Airports. -[3841.62 --> 3843.32] They're a beautiful thing. -[3845.90 --> 3846.26] Identity. -[3846.54 --> 3847.68] Do you know what identity means? -[3849.94 --> 3851.18] You went on a plane, too. -[3851.36 --> 3851.90] Me, too. -[3852.06 --> 3854.04] It was a long flight, let me tell you. -[3855.62 --> 3856.80] Oh, that is exciting. -[3857.36 --> 3859.92] We're going to circle back to planes when we get to the back room. -[3859.98 --> 3863.14] But identity means who we are. -[3863.14 --> 3866.46] So it's kind of like who God created you to be, right? -[3866.58 --> 3869.36] So, Hank, I've got a question for you. -[3869.56 --> 3870.46] Who are you? -[3870.92 --> 3872.62] I am Hank the Hound. -[3873.16 --> 3875.14] And how do you spell Hank? -[3875.34 --> 3876.80] I don't know. -[3877.46 --> 3880.36] So, what are some things you love, Hank? -[3880.60 --> 3882.28] I love sticks. -[3882.68 --> 3884.12] I love bacon. -[3884.12 --> 3887.42] I love chasing things. -[3887.80 --> 3889.50] And is there anything maybe you don't like? -[3889.66 --> 3890.18] Cats! -[3890.44 --> 3892.80] I don't like cats. -[3893.34 --> 3895.06] I kind of forgot about that, hey? -[3895.38 --> 3895.76] Mm-hmm. -[3896.52 --> 3898.98] So, what we're going to learn about, though, -[3899.08 --> 3901.56] is sometimes we think of our identities, -[3901.70 --> 3903.64] we think about things we like or we love, -[3903.72 --> 3904.84] like Hank just did, right? -[3905.08 --> 3905.30] Yeah? -[3905.80 --> 3906.32] Do you have a question? -[3906.32 --> 3911.08] Oh, yeah? -[3911.80 --> 3912.36] That's fun. -[3914.32 --> 3915.32] We're playing outside? -[3916.12 --> 3917.68] Well, we're going to talk about all of those things -[3917.68 --> 3919.12] that we love to do in a second. -[3919.40 --> 3921.04] But what we're going to learn is that -[3921.04 --> 3923.20] sometimes we look at our identity -[3923.20 --> 3924.26] and we ask ourselves, -[3924.36 --> 3926.28] what are things we like or who we are? -[3926.70 --> 3928.82] But do you know what God sees -[3928.82 --> 3930.30] when he sees us in heaven? -[3931.62 --> 3933.30] He sees us for who we are, -[3933.30 --> 3936.90] but he also sees us through the lens -[3936.90 --> 3938.38] or through the eyes of Jesus. -[3938.92 --> 3940.90] He sees Jesus when he sees us. -[3941.00 --> 3941.90] And so we're going to learn that -[3941.90 --> 3944.34] the more we know and learn about Jesus, -[3944.66 --> 3946.12] the more we get to know about -[3946.12 --> 3948.44] who we actually are inside as well. -[3948.52 --> 3949.36] Does that sound pretty good? -[3949.90 --> 3951.36] So we're going to talk about that in the back, okay? -[3951.48 --> 3952.08] Sound good, Hank? -[3952.32 --> 3952.64] Yep! -[3953.28 --> 3954.88] All right, so we're going to pray -[3954.88 --> 3956.68] and then we're going to do the kid's blessing -[3956.68 --> 3957.92] and then we'll go to the back room, okay? -[3958.02 --> 3958.32] Are you ready? -[3958.40 --> 3960.84] Let's bow our heads and fold our hands -[3960.84 --> 3961.30] and let's pray. -[3961.38 --> 3962.48] Dear God, we thank you for this day. -[3962.48 --> 3964.14] Thank you that we could be in church today -[3964.14 --> 3965.42] and that we could learn more -[3965.42 --> 3967.14] about who you created us to be. -[3967.54 --> 3968.62] Will you be with us today -[3968.62 --> 3969.80] as we learn more about that -[3969.80 --> 3971.54] and be with the grownups as they stay here -[3971.54 --> 3973.08] and learn more about you as well? -[3973.26 --> 3974.24] We pray this in your name. -[3974.68 --> 3974.98] Amen. -[3975.68 --> 3976.70] All right, let's stand up -[3976.70 --> 3979.08] and in a second we're going to say together, -[3979.50 --> 3981.14] the Lord be with you, okay? -[3981.26 --> 3983.36] And then the church is going to say that back to us -[3983.36 --> 3985.12] and the boys are going to stay here the whole time. -[3985.18 --> 3985.64] Right, boys? -[3986.02 --> 3986.68] Here we go. -[3987.06 --> 3988.22] We're going to say it at the same time. -[3988.66 --> 3989.52] One, two, three. -[3989.52 --> 3992.04] The Lord be with you. -[3992.04 --> 3993.92] And also to be with you. -[3994.02 --> 3995.12] All right, let's head to the back. -[3995.12 --> 4017.74] I get to follow that every time. -[4017.74 --> 4020.66] My name is Paul. -[4020.80 --> 4021.50] I'm an elder here -[4021.50 --> 4027.58] and I was asked to give up a little bit of an update -[4027.58 --> 4030.00] on our past full council meeting, -[4030.16 --> 4032.90] which was this week, this past week. -[4034.04 --> 4035.78] A couple of things from that meeting -[4035.78 --> 4037.84] that I wanted to let you know about. -[4037.84 --> 4041.76] Pastor Chris walked us through, -[4042.40 --> 4046.14] it was called By the Numbers, -[4046.26 --> 4047.26] Emmanuel By the Numbers. -[4047.62 --> 4051.10] So, and that sounds kind of dry for some people. -[4051.22 --> 4052.18] Some people love numbers, -[4052.36 --> 4055.46] but what it meant was, -[4056.02 --> 4061.22] and what we saw through the past year -[4061.22 --> 4063.62] that God has been super gracious -[4063.62 --> 4065.48] and faithful to this community. -[4067.04 --> 4070.00] Many people joined us as a community. -[4070.90 --> 4072.10] There were baptisms. -[4073.44 --> 4075.60] Our family came together -[4075.60 --> 4078.28] when Sybisir passed away, -[4079.10 --> 4082.16] but there's an engagement here -[4082.16 --> 4084.70] that is obvious by those numbers. -[4084.70 --> 4088.24] Another thing we talked about -[4088.24 --> 4090.84] was that classes is going to be coming up -[4090.84 --> 4095.30] and some people volunteered to attend that -[4095.30 --> 4097.50] and be our representatives there. -[4098.66 --> 4100.56] Classes Southwest, British Columbia. -[4102.54 --> 4106.36] And something that is going to be coming up -[4106.36 --> 4110.34] is nominations for new elders and deacons. -[4110.34 --> 4112.90] The terms will, -[4113.42 --> 4117.82] a number of people from the council -[4117.82 --> 4122.08] will be coming to a close for them -[4122.08 --> 4124.40] this time later on this spring. -[4125.10 --> 4126.98] So we're going to have a process. -[4128.00 --> 4129.74] A number of those will be asked -[4129.74 --> 4131.50] to actually extend their term -[4131.50 --> 4134.70] because we ended up with a little bit of a lag -[4134.70 --> 4135.90] because of COVID. -[4136.92 --> 4139.16] So some will be extending their terms, -[4139.16 --> 4142.78] but we'll be looking for two elders -[4142.78 --> 4144.30] and one deacon. -[4145.30 --> 4147.78] So please pray and consider -[4147.78 --> 4150.76] putting your name forward for that. -[4152.70 --> 4155.18] And I think that's it. -[4156.30 --> 4157.06] Thank you. -[4169.16 --> 4181.68] I'm Eric Hubertz, an elder here at Emmanuel. -[4182.14 --> 4184.10] I'll be leading you in our church family prayer. -[4185.98 --> 4186.84] Praise the Lord. -[4187.50 --> 4189.86] How good it is to sing praises to our God. -[4190.30 --> 4192.20] How pleasant and fitting to praise Him. -[4193.74 --> 4195.20] Reflecting in this past week -[4195.20 --> 4197.76] about all of life's chapters. -[4198.08 --> 4200.08] It's comforting knowing the church family -[4200.08 --> 4200.80] here at Emmanuel -[4200.80 --> 4203.88] has been here since supporting on life's journeys. -[4204.50 --> 4205.56] This last week, -[4206.28 --> 4210.18] we celebrated the baptisms of Jane. -[4212.82 --> 4214.60] Jane and this week, -[4214.68 --> 4216.64] it was Ava Rose Skipper today -[4216.64 --> 4217.68] for their baptism. -[4217.68 --> 4220.62] And just help all of us members -[4220.62 --> 4222.02] of the congregation here -[4222.02 --> 4223.22] be support to each other -[4223.22 --> 4225.14] on these journeys at different stages. -[4226.14 --> 4227.14] I know at this time, -[4227.72 --> 4228.64] there are many students -[4228.64 --> 4230.70] that are having to make some big decisions -[4230.70 --> 4232.26] in what's next, -[4232.40 --> 4234.16] whether that's from elementary school -[4234.16 --> 4234.86] to high school -[4234.86 --> 4236.10] or high school to university -[4236.10 --> 4238.28] or university on. -[4238.40 --> 4239.48] Where do I go to school? -[4239.66 --> 4240.52] Where do I move? -[4240.76 --> 4241.66] Where do I work? -[4241.92 --> 4243.30] Can I find work? -[4243.30 --> 4245.28] We trust in you, Lord, -[4245.40 --> 4246.30] that you will continue -[4246.30 --> 4247.54] to guide us on this journey. -[4248.62 --> 4249.20] This week, -[4249.30 --> 4250.82] we launched our new podcast, -[4251.82 --> 4252.76] NorthX. -[4253.28 --> 4255.26] Bless Pastor Chris, Kevin, and Joss -[4255.26 --> 4257.06] in this new podcast -[4257.06 --> 4258.74] where faith meets real life -[4258.74 --> 4260.70] one conversation at a time. -[4262.14 --> 4263.34] In these last few months, -[4263.46 --> 4265.66] we've had to deal with many deaths -[4265.66 --> 4267.32] within our extended congregation -[4267.32 --> 4267.96] and family. -[4268.70 --> 4270.06] Please continue to support -[4270.06 --> 4271.24] those who need comfort. -[4271.24 --> 4272.64] This week, -[4272.74 --> 4273.78] we learned about the death -[4273.78 --> 4275.42] of Mary Jones' dad, -[4276.18 --> 4277.84] Arnie Dela Cruz. -[4278.46 --> 4280.54] Comfort the family at this time. -[4282.24 --> 4284.14] Our merciful Father in heaven, -[4284.30 --> 4285.34] we thank you that we are, -[4286.18 --> 4287.44] you've provided our faithful -[4287.44 --> 4288.46] and gifted people -[4288.46 --> 4289.82] to serve here at Emmanuel, -[4290.22 --> 4291.26] elders and deacons, -[4291.70 --> 4294.50] to continue to fulfill them -[4294.50 --> 4295.58] with wisdom -[4295.58 --> 4297.42] and grant them the strength -[4297.42 --> 4298.54] that makes them faithful -[4298.54 --> 4301.46] workers in your vineyard. -[4302.38 --> 4303.38] May you bless us -[4303.38 --> 4304.82] as we go through the week -[4304.82 --> 4306.00] and ground us -[4306.00 --> 4307.16] and root us in your word. -[4307.54 --> 4308.26] In Jesus' name, -[4308.64 --> 4309.02] we pray. -[4309.46 --> 4309.68] Amen. -[4309.68 --> 4309.80] Amen. -[4309.80 --> 4327.64] I'm going to invite you -[4327.64 --> 4329.52] to turn in your Bible -[4329.52 --> 4330.74] or turn on your Bible, -[4330.86 --> 4331.82] whatever the case may be. -[4332.16 --> 4333.02] We're going to continue -[4333.02 --> 4334.96] looking at the letter -[4334.96 --> 4335.74] to the Romans. -[4335.74 --> 4339.12] We are going to finish -[4339.12 --> 4339.98] this morning -[4339.98 --> 4341.70] the really dense section -[4341.70 --> 4344.58] of chapters 9 through 11 -[4344.58 --> 4348.12] with a text about worship -[4348.12 --> 4350.12] and a text of worship -[4350.12 --> 4351.88] in Romans 11, -[4352.08 --> 4354.12] verse 33 to 36. -[4356.40 --> 4357.84] It will be on the screen -[4357.84 --> 4359.38] behind me the first time through -[4359.38 --> 4360.46] and I encourage you -[4360.46 --> 4361.46] to keep it in front of you -[4361.46 --> 4362.14] as we go. -[4362.14 --> 4365.42] This is the word of the Lord. -[4366.52 --> 4368.48] Oh, the depth of the riches -[4368.48 --> 4369.50] of the wisdom -[4369.50 --> 4371.32] and knowledge of God. -[4371.94 --> 4373.36] How unsearchable -[4373.36 --> 4374.50] His judgments -[4374.50 --> 4375.64] and His paths -[4375.64 --> 4377.12] beyond tracing out. -[4378.08 --> 4379.20] Who has known -[4379.20 --> 4380.48] the mind of the Lord -[4380.48 --> 4381.66] or who has been -[4381.66 --> 4382.36] His counselor? -[4383.28 --> 4385.42] Who has ever given to God -[4385.42 --> 4387.22] that God should repay them? -[4388.32 --> 4389.38] For from Him -[4389.38 --> 4390.80] and through Him -[4390.80 --> 4392.44] and for Him -[4392.44 --> 4394.30] are all things. -[4394.46 --> 4394.98] To Him -[4394.98 --> 4397.08] be the glory forever. -[4397.90 --> 4398.26] Amen. -[4399.42 --> 4400.76] This is the word of the Lord. -[4400.76 --> 4401.86] Thank you. -[4406.06 --> 4407.44] Sometime -[4407.44 --> 4408.62] in the -[4408.62 --> 4410.82] Enlightenment period, -[4412.08 --> 4412.78] and so that's -[4412.78 --> 4413.56] the sort of -[4413.56 --> 4415.02] late 16th -[4415.02 --> 4417.14] to mid 18th century, -[4417.72 --> 4419.06] sometime there -[4419.06 --> 4421.30] people began -[4421.30 --> 4422.84] thinking about -[4422.84 --> 4423.72] the world -[4423.72 --> 4426.58] with increasing -[4426.58 --> 4427.62] distance -[4427.62 --> 4429.68] to the Bible -[4429.68 --> 4430.88] or to how -[4430.88 --> 4432.58] they had thought -[4432.58 --> 4433.26] previously -[4433.26 --> 4434.46] using the Bible -[4434.46 --> 4435.46] in the world. -[4436.28 --> 4437.82] At the same time, -[4438.22 --> 4439.42] areas like -[4439.42 --> 4440.62] natural sciences -[4440.62 --> 4442.28] explode -[4442.28 --> 4443.42] and develop -[4443.42 --> 4445.52] even if -[4445.52 --> 4446.28] that explosion -[4446.28 --> 4447.02] comes from -[4447.02 --> 4447.80] many scientists -[4447.80 --> 4448.34] who were -[4448.34 --> 4448.88] themselves -[4448.88 --> 4449.92] largely Christian -[4449.92 --> 4450.62] trying to -[4450.62 --> 4451.12] understand the -[4451.12 --> 4451.94] world that -[4451.94 --> 4453.06] they find -[4453.06 --> 4453.68] themselves in. -[4454.72 --> 4455.56] The reason I -[4455.56 --> 4456.58] introduce in this -[4456.58 --> 4457.46] way is because -[4457.46 --> 4458.34] a term -[4458.34 --> 4459.48] started being -[4459.48 --> 4460.68] used for -[4460.68 --> 4461.30] humans, -[4461.46 --> 4462.04] for people, -[4462.04 --> 4463.30] during this time. -[4463.92 --> 4465.12] As far as I could -[4465.12 --> 4465.86] tell in my -[4465.86 --> 4466.84] quick research, -[4467.02 --> 4467.88] the first usage -[4467.88 --> 4468.62] of this term -[4468.62 --> 4469.06] is from -[4469.06 --> 4470.42] 1774 -[4470.42 --> 4471.62] by Lord -[4471.62 --> 4472.40] Mondobo, -[4472.80 --> 4473.94] who was a judge -[4473.94 --> 4474.76] and a philosopher. -[4474.76 --> 4475.64] And the term -[4475.64 --> 4476.30] is -[4476.30 --> 4477.68] homo sapien. -[4479.22 --> 4480.54] Homo sapien -[4480.54 --> 4482.56] literally means -[4482.56 --> 4483.62] in Latin -[4483.62 --> 4486.06] creature -[4486.06 --> 4487.14] or human -[4487.14 --> 4488.20] wise -[4488.20 --> 4489.14] or wise -[4489.14 --> 4489.68] human -[4489.68 --> 4491.02] or thinking -[4491.02 --> 4492.10] person. -[4492.64 --> 4493.50] The idea -[4493.50 --> 4494.30] is that -[4494.30 --> 4494.66] what's -[4494.66 --> 4495.36] separating -[4495.36 --> 4496.30] humanity -[4496.30 --> 4497.54] from the -[4497.54 --> 4498.22] genus -[4498.22 --> 4499.34] of homo -[4499.34 --> 4500.88] is our -[4500.88 --> 4501.50] ability -[4501.50 --> 4502.60] to think, -[4503.14 --> 4504.18] to cognate. -[4506.02 --> 4506.74] Descartes, -[4506.98 --> 4507.48] famously, -[4507.98 --> 4508.84] some hundred -[4508.84 --> 4509.58] years before -[4509.58 --> 4510.08] the term -[4510.08 --> 4510.80] homo sapien -[4510.80 --> 4511.30] is used, -[4511.70 --> 4512.00] says, -[4512.20 --> 4512.82] cogito -[4512.82 --> 4513.82] ergo sum. -[4514.70 --> 4515.28] In fact, -[4515.42 --> 4515.92] in French, -[4516.46 --> 4517.00] je pense, -[4517.22 --> 4517.92] donc je suis. -[4517.92 --> 4519.36] I think, -[4519.80 --> 4520.34] therefore I -[4520.34 --> 4520.68] am. -[4521.86 --> 4522.34] And that -[4522.34 --> 4522.98] way of -[4522.98 --> 4523.68] understanding -[4523.68 --> 4524.08] what it -[4524.08 --> 4524.58] means to -[4524.58 --> 4525.30] be human -[4525.30 --> 4526.16] sort of -[4526.16 --> 4527.38] sets the -[4527.38 --> 4529.12] agenda -[4529.12 --> 4530.20] for -[4530.20 --> 4531.22] anthropology, -[4531.58 --> 4532.12] for thoughts -[4532.12 --> 4532.88] about being -[4532.88 --> 4533.34] human, -[4533.66 --> 4534.52] for the -[4534.52 --> 4534.94] next -[4534.94 --> 4535.90] centuries -[4535.90 --> 4537.86] and continues -[4537.86 --> 4538.26] in many -[4538.26 --> 4538.72] respects -[4538.72 --> 4539.56] to today. -[4541.64 --> 4541.90] Now, -[4541.98 --> 4542.80] more recently, -[4543.22 --> 4544.08] a Christian -[4544.08 --> 4544.86] philosopher -[4544.86 --> 4546.10] by the -[4546.10 --> 4546.64] name of -[4546.64 --> 4547.24] James K. -[4547.30 --> 4547.44] A. -[4547.50 --> 4547.80] Smith -[4547.80 --> 4549.76] challenges -[4549.76 --> 4550.58] the -[4550.58 --> 4551.28] fundamental -[4551.28 --> 4551.90] assumption -[4551.90 --> 4552.64] that -[4552.64 --> 4553.62] humans -[4553.62 --> 4554.12] are -[4554.12 --> 4554.92] primarily -[4554.92 --> 4555.82] thinking -[4555.82 --> 4556.54] creatures, -[4556.68 --> 4557.04] or that's -[4557.04 --> 4557.88] what defines -[4557.88 --> 4558.60] who we -[4558.60 --> 4558.80] are. -[4559.10 --> 4559.48] Instead, -[4560.16 --> 4561.04] Jamie Smith -[4561.04 --> 4562.04] says that -[4562.04 --> 4562.94] humans are -[4562.94 --> 4564.16] desiring -[4564.16 --> 4565.54] creatures. -[4567.42 --> 4568.18] Right? -[4568.26 --> 4568.50] That we -[4568.50 --> 4568.96] are -[4568.96 --> 4570.72] creatures -[4570.72 --> 4572.06] who love -[4572.06 --> 4573.00] first. -[4573.98 --> 4574.16] And so -[4574.16 --> 4574.48] there's a -[4574.48 --> 4575.18] contrast, -[4575.34 --> 4575.60] right, -[4575.76 --> 4576.88] that's going -[4576.88 --> 4577.46] on here -[4577.46 --> 4577.94] between -[4577.94 --> 4579.20] our human -[4579.20 --> 4579.66] people, -[4579.86 --> 4580.36] primarily -[4580.36 --> 4581.58] what Smith -[4581.58 --> 4582.36] characterizes -[4582.36 --> 4583.04] as a brain -[4583.04 --> 4583.76] on a stick, -[4584.20 --> 4585.14] or are you -[4585.14 --> 4585.68] a heart -[4585.68 --> 4586.90] with a soul? -[4587.78 --> 4588.52] Smith writes, -[4588.62 --> 4589.30] and you can -[4589.30 --> 4589.64] see it, -[4589.64 --> 4590.76] we are what -[4590.76 --> 4591.50] we love, -[4591.64 --> 4592.22] and our love -[4592.22 --> 4592.92] is shaped, -[4593.34 --> 4593.92] primed, -[4593.98 --> 4594.58] and aimed -[4594.58 --> 4595.54] by liturgical -[4595.54 --> 4596.56] practices that -[4596.56 --> 4597.22] take hold of -[4597.22 --> 4598.28] our gut and -[4598.28 --> 4598.88] aim our -[4598.88 --> 4599.58] heart to -[4599.58 --> 4600.36] certain ends. -[4601.96 --> 4602.26] And so -[4602.26 --> 4603.72] to speak -[4603.72 --> 4604.78] like Descartes, -[4605.28 --> 4607.82] ammo ergo sum, -[4608.24 --> 4609.02] I love, -[4609.32 --> 4610.64] therefore I am. -[4611.64 --> 4612.20] Now this -[4612.20 --> 4612.60] morning, -[4613.32 --> 4614.50] with credit to -[4614.50 --> 4616.20] Jamie Smith and -[4616.20 --> 4617.06] to the tradition -[4617.06 --> 4618.36] of Descartes, -[4618.46 --> 4619.66] I would like to -[4619.66 --> 4620.64] take those two -[4620.64 --> 4621.26] things, -[4621.32 --> 4622.60] I think and I -[4622.60 --> 4623.02] love, -[4623.02 --> 4623.90] therefore I am, -[4623.98 --> 4624.78] and put them -[4624.78 --> 4625.88] together into -[4625.88 --> 4626.58] what I think is -[4626.58 --> 4627.24] more accurate -[4627.24 --> 4630.08] and a more -[4630.08 --> 4631.66] faithful understanding -[4631.66 --> 4632.38] of what it means -[4632.38 --> 4633.00] to be human. -[4633.76 --> 4634.52] To that end, -[4634.62 --> 4635.54] I think we can -[4635.54 --> 4636.08] say, -[4636.56 --> 4638.64] adoro ergo sum, -[4639.40 --> 4640.54] I worship, -[4641.34 --> 4643.04] therefore I am. -[4643.04 --> 4644.86] I am. -[4644.86 --> 4644.98] I am going to -[4644.98 --> 4645.94] suggest to you -[4645.94 --> 4647.16] that humans -[4647.16 --> 4648.88] are first -[4648.88 --> 4649.84] and foremost -[4649.84 --> 4651.00] worshipping -[4651.00 --> 4652.16] creatures. -[4653.78 --> 4654.12] And yes, -[4654.20 --> 4654.58] this is an -[4654.58 --> 4655.26] aspect of what -[4655.26 --> 4656.00] Smith talks about -[4656.00 --> 4656.74] his desiring, -[4657.18 --> 4657.84] but it is also -[4657.84 --> 4658.84] an aspect of -[4658.84 --> 4659.84] our thinking -[4659.84 --> 4660.68] and our reflection. -[4661.90 --> 4662.02] Right? -[4662.10 --> 4662.78] This isn't a -[4662.78 --> 4663.42] question of -[4663.42 --> 4664.24] whether or not -[4664.24 --> 4664.88] we worship, -[4665.68 --> 4666.44] but who -[4666.44 --> 4667.78] or what -[4667.78 --> 4668.36] and in what -[4668.36 --> 4669.56] way do we -[4669.56 --> 4669.82] worship. -[4670.68 --> 4670.90] Now, -[4671.12 --> 4671.94] let us make sure -[4671.94 --> 4672.26] we are on the -[4672.26 --> 4672.88] same page -[4672.88 --> 4673.70] and we will -[4673.70 --> 4674.34] define some -[4674.34 --> 4675.14] terms for a -[4675.14 --> 4675.38] moment. -[4676.12 --> 4677.16] Simply put, -[4677.90 --> 4679.60] worship is -[4679.60 --> 4681.08] acknowledging the -[4681.08 --> 4682.58] supreme worth -[4682.58 --> 4684.38] or value of -[4684.38 --> 4685.52] something in -[4685.52 --> 4686.18] our lives. -[4686.82 --> 4687.94] Worship is the -[4687.94 --> 4688.78] thing that you -[4688.78 --> 4690.48] pursue at the -[4690.48 --> 4691.34] expense of -[4691.34 --> 4692.10] other things. -[4693.58 --> 4693.90] Or, -[4694.00 --> 4694.44] even more -[4694.44 --> 4694.84] simply, -[4695.08 --> 4696.12] and you can -[4696.12 --> 4697.78] quantitatively -[4697.78 --> 4698.50] check this for -[4698.50 --> 4699.18] your own life, -[4699.40 --> 4701.40] worship is where -[4701.40 --> 4702.32] your attention -[4702.32 --> 4703.32] goes. -[4704.96 --> 4705.16] So, -[4705.22 --> 4705.46] what do you -[4705.46 --> 4705.92] spend your -[4705.92 --> 4706.92] time reflecting -[4706.92 --> 4708.06] on or doing? -[4708.16 --> 4708.68] What we give -[4708.68 --> 4709.56] our attention -[4709.56 --> 4712.02] to is what -[4712.02 --> 4712.56] we worship -[4712.56 --> 4713.40] or reveals -[4713.40 --> 4714.58] what we -[4714.58 --> 4714.86] worship. -[4716.22 --> 4717.30] And so, -[4717.50 --> 4718.42] it is the -[4718.42 --> 4720.30] thinking and -[4720.30 --> 4720.92] the loving -[4720.92 --> 4721.90] that come -[4721.90 --> 4723.54] together in -[4723.54 --> 4724.10] our worship, -[4724.70 --> 4725.06] in our -[4725.06 --> 4725.60] worshiping. -[4726.24 --> 4726.92] And I think -[4726.92 --> 4728.20] that since the -[4728.20 --> 4729.20] thinking and the -[4729.20 --> 4729.92] loving come -[4729.92 --> 4731.34] together in -[4731.34 --> 4732.22] our worship -[4732.22 --> 4732.90] and in this -[4732.90 --> 4733.88] act of worship -[4733.88 --> 4735.32] and worshiping, -[4735.66 --> 4737.12] I want to say -[4737.12 --> 4737.86] that that is -[4737.86 --> 4740.20] fundamental to -[4740.20 --> 4741.38] our anthropology, -[4741.70 --> 4742.14] to what it -[4742.14 --> 4743.16] means to be -[4743.16 --> 4743.90] human. -[4744.78 --> 4745.80] The kinds of -[4745.80 --> 4746.38] things that we -[4746.38 --> 4747.44] think about and -[4747.44 --> 4748.38] the kinds of -[4748.38 --> 4749.48] things or the -[4749.48 --> 4750.52] people or the -[4750.52 --> 4751.48] beings who we -[4751.48 --> 4752.92] love matters. -[4754.24 --> 4754.82] And so, -[4754.90 --> 4755.24] of course, -[4755.30 --> 4756.34] it's important for -[4756.34 --> 4757.28] us to reflect on -[4757.28 --> 4758.42] that and to -[4758.42 --> 4759.08] spend some time -[4759.08 --> 4760.00] thinking about -[4760.00 --> 4760.62] what shapes -[4760.62 --> 4762.08] those loves -[4762.08 --> 4763.08] and practices -[4763.08 --> 4764.16] and worship. -[4765.06 --> 4765.98] Our worship -[4765.98 --> 4767.08] shapes our -[4767.08 --> 4768.18] practices and -[4768.18 --> 4769.14] so our practices -[4769.14 --> 4770.64] in turn shape -[4770.64 --> 4771.26] our lives. -[4772.48 --> 4772.96] That's just -[4772.96 --> 4773.48] another way of -[4773.48 --> 4774.12] saying what we -[4774.12 --> 4775.04] do impacts -[4775.04 --> 4775.58] who we are. -[4776.52 --> 4777.14] What we -[4777.14 --> 4777.74] worship, -[4778.10 --> 4778.70] therefore, -[4778.88 --> 4780.62] determines who -[4780.62 --> 4781.04] we are. -[4782.38 --> 4782.68] Now, -[4782.72 --> 4783.32] given this -[4783.32 --> 4784.32] clear truth, -[4784.38 --> 4785.14] I think it's -[4785.14 --> 4786.08] really important -[4786.08 --> 4787.60] to reflect on -[4787.60 --> 4788.32] the kinds of -[4788.32 --> 4789.02] things that -[4789.02 --> 4790.14] cause us to -[4790.14 --> 4790.54] worship, -[4790.68 --> 4791.20] the kinds of -[4791.20 --> 4791.96] things that -[4791.96 --> 4793.10] shape our -[4793.10 --> 4794.08] worshiping. -[4794.76 --> 4795.66] In the Bible -[4795.66 --> 4796.14] text this -[4796.14 --> 4796.44] morning, -[4797.16 --> 4798.38] Paul gives -[4798.38 --> 4799.12] us what I -[4799.12 --> 4799.86] believe to be -[4799.86 --> 4800.64] an excellent -[4800.64 --> 4801.88] example of -[4801.88 --> 4803.10] how good -[4803.10 --> 4803.94] theology, -[4804.92 --> 4806.04] and theology -[4806.04 --> 4807.46] is good ideas -[4807.46 --> 4808.18] and doctrines -[4808.18 --> 4808.86] about who God -[4808.86 --> 4809.18] is, -[4809.34 --> 4809.84] that good -[4809.84 --> 4810.56] theology -[4810.56 --> 4811.62] naturally -[4811.62 --> 4813.02] turns into -[4813.02 --> 4813.84] praise. -[4813.84 --> 4817.66] let me put -[4817.66 --> 4818.00] it together -[4818.00 --> 4818.50] another way. -[4821.24 --> 4821.84] Superficial -[4821.84 --> 4822.92] ideas about -[4822.92 --> 4824.54] God will -[4824.54 --> 4825.08] lead to -[4825.08 --> 4825.64] superficial -[4825.64 --> 4826.54] worship of -[4826.54 --> 4826.84] God. -[4828.66 --> 4829.24] Think of it -[4829.24 --> 4829.78] by analogy. -[4830.12 --> 4830.48] The more -[4830.48 --> 4831.00] you know -[4831.00 --> 4831.48] someone, -[4831.66 --> 4831.94] the more -[4831.94 --> 4832.42] you know -[4832.42 --> 4832.82] about -[4832.82 --> 4833.32] someone, -[4833.46 --> 4834.00] the deeper -[4834.00 --> 4834.98] your affections -[4834.98 --> 4835.62] for them -[4835.62 --> 4836.14] can be. -[4837.56 --> 4838.28] In our -[4838.28 --> 4838.64] series, -[4838.78 --> 4839.08] through the -[4839.08 --> 4839.52] book of -[4839.52 --> 4839.92] Romans, -[4840.08 --> 4840.56] Paul has -[4840.56 --> 4841.00] just spent -[4841.00 --> 4841.40] the last -[4841.40 --> 4842.28] three chapters -[4842.28 --> 4844.58] digging deep -[4844.58 --> 4845.44] into the -[4845.44 --> 4845.94] sovereignty -[4845.94 --> 4846.62] of God, -[4846.74 --> 4847.38] digging deep -[4847.38 --> 4847.86] into the -[4847.86 --> 4848.30] hope and -[4848.30 --> 4848.86] the promise -[4848.86 --> 4849.66] of salvation, -[4850.16 --> 4850.82] digging deep -[4850.82 --> 4851.40] into the -[4851.40 --> 4852.00] complexities -[4852.00 --> 4852.66] and the -[4852.66 --> 4853.10] mysteries -[4853.10 --> 4854.24] of election, -[4854.78 --> 4855.40] digging deep -[4855.40 --> 4856.02] into the -[4856.02 --> 4856.90] unsearchable -[4856.90 --> 4858.26] and unfathomable -[4858.26 --> 4859.38] beyond tracing -[4859.38 --> 4860.36] out ways -[4860.36 --> 4860.90] of God. -[4860.98 --> 4861.30] And now -[4861.30 --> 4861.86] he comes -[4861.86 --> 4862.20] to the -[4862.20 --> 4862.86] point at -[4862.86 --> 4863.20] the end -[4863.20 --> 4863.54] of all -[4863.54 --> 4864.02] that deep -[4864.02 --> 4864.28] digging, -[4864.78 --> 4865.84] and he -[4865.84 --> 4866.94] can't help -[4866.94 --> 4868.20] but worship. -[4868.20 --> 4870.32] good -[4870.32 --> 4871.04] theology -[4871.04 --> 4872.04] leads -[4872.04 --> 4872.64] to -[4872.64 --> 4873.86] doxology. -[4875.48 --> 4876.14] Doxology -[4876.14 --> 4876.86] is the -[4876.86 --> 4877.44] word we -[4877.44 --> 4877.92] use in -[4877.92 --> 4878.36] the church -[4878.36 --> 4879.22] that means -[4879.22 --> 4880.70] speaking glory -[4880.70 --> 4881.22] or a -[4881.22 --> 4881.96] word of -[4881.96 --> 4882.48] glory. -[4882.66 --> 4882.84] It's a -[4882.84 --> 4883.14] combination -[4883.14 --> 4883.84] of two -[4883.84 --> 4884.20] Greek -[4884.20 --> 4884.60] words, -[4885.06 --> 4885.42] doxa, -[4885.58 --> 4885.88] which means -[4885.88 --> 4886.38] praise or -[4886.38 --> 4886.70] glory, -[4886.86 --> 4887.42] and logos, -[4887.70 --> 4888.00] which means -[4888.00 --> 4888.52] word or -[4888.52 --> 4889.04] to speak. -[4889.62 --> 4890.26] Doxology. -[4890.68 --> 4891.40] Doxology -[4891.40 --> 4892.04] then is an -[4892.04 --> 4892.90] expression of -[4892.90 --> 4894.02] praise to -[4894.02 --> 4894.54] God. -[4894.64 --> 4894.92] It's a -[4894.92 --> 4895.52] confession -[4895.52 --> 4897.28] of adoration. -[4898.20 --> 4899.68] If you've -[4899.68 --> 4900.18] been around -[4900.18 --> 4901.62] churches, -[4901.90 --> 4902.34] and especially -[4902.34 --> 4902.94] our church -[4902.94 --> 4903.44] tradition, -[4903.74 --> 4904.70] for a while, -[4904.82 --> 4905.16] you might -[4905.16 --> 4906.00] know that -[4906.00 --> 4906.66] sometimes at -[4906.66 --> 4906.96] the end -[4906.96 --> 4907.40] of worship -[4907.40 --> 4907.94] we sing -[4907.94 --> 4908.38] a song -[4908.38 --> 4908.66] that's -[4908.66 --> 4909.02] called -[4909.02 --> 4909.28] the -[4909.28 --> 4910.02] doxology, -[4910.54 --> 4910.68] right? -[4910.80 --> 4911.10] Praise -[4911.10 --> 4911.48] God -[4911.48 --> 4912.04] from whom -[4912.04 --> 4912.74] all blessings -[4912.74 --> 4913.14] flow. -[4913.32 --> 4913.62] Praise -[4913.62 --> 4913.94] him, -[4914.02 --> 4914.54] all creatures -[4914.54 --> 4915.12] here below. -[4917.92 --> 4918.42] And so -[4918.42 --> 4920.10] using this -[4920.10 --> 4922.02] text from -[4922.02 --> 4922.82] Romans 11, -[4923.60 --> 4924.76] these four -[4924.76 --> 4925.48] verses here, -[4925.88 --> 4926.48] I would -[4926.48 --> 4927.28] like for -[4927.28 --> 4927.88] us to -[4927.88 --> 4928.56] spend the -[4928.56 --> 4928.80] rest of -[4928.80 --> 4929.32] our time -[4929.32 --> 4930.30] outlining -[4930.30 --> 4931.02] some of -[4931.02 --> 4931.78] the things, -[4931.90 --> 4932.14] some of -[4932.14 --> 4932.76] the ideas, -[4932.88 --> 4933.14] or some -[4933.14 --> 4933.38] of the -[4933.38 --> 4933.92] structures -[4933.92 --> 4935.50] that ought -[4935.50 --> 4936.08] to be -[4936.08 --> 4936.68] included -[4936.68 --> 4938.80] in our -[4938.80 --> 4939.48] approach -[4939.48 --> 4940.04] to -[4940.04 --> 4940.58] right -[4940.58 --> 4941.56] worship. -[4943.14 --> 4943.50] Okay, -[4943.54 --> 4943.80] now this -[4943.80 --> 4944.04] isn't -[4944.04 --> 4944.54] comprehensive, -[4945.12 --> 4945.52] there will -[4945.52 --> 4945.84] be things -[4945.84 --> 4946.04] that we -[4946.04 --> 4946.38] don't touch -[4946.38 --> 4946.92] upon today, -[4947.10 --> 4947.70] but at -[4947.70 --> 4948.46] least these -[4948.46 --> 4949.40] four things -[4949.40 --> 4950.42] need to -[4950.42 --> 4951.28] shape part -[4951.28 --> 4952.04] of our -[4952.04 --> 4952.90] understanding -[4952.90 --> 4953.84] of worship. -[4954.02 --> 4954.64] And then, -[4954.82 --> 4955.30] based on -[4955.30 --> 4955.56] that, -[4955.62 --> 4955.94] I want us -[4955.94 --> 4956.54] to recognize -[4956.54 --> 4957.18] that if -[4957.18 --> 4957.72] we are -[4957.72 --> 4958.76] worshiping -[4958.76 --> 4959.66] creatures, -[4960.40 --> 4961.30] right worship -[4961.30 --> 4962.86] means living -[4962.86 --> 4963.66] in line -[4963.66 --> 4964.78] with our -[4964.78 --> 4965.52] purpose. -[4966.80 --> 4967.34] And so -[4967.34 --> 4968.80] getting worship -[4968.80 --> 4969.60] right and -[4969.60 --> 4970.66] rightly oriented -[4970.66 --> 4971.20] or rightly -[4971.20 --> 4971.66] directed, -[4971.92 --> 4972.70] rightly weighted, -[4973.20 --> 4973.96] that means -[4973.96 --> 4975.00] getting our -[4975.00 --> 4975.72] humanity -[4975.72 --> 4976.78] right. -[4978.06 --> 4978.62] And so -[4978.62 --> 4979.16] this is all -[4979.16 --> 4980.18] actually about -[4980.18 --> 4981.10] understanding -[4981.10 --> 4981.70] who you -[4981.70 --> 4982.26] are -[4982.26 --> 4983.94] in light -[4983.94 --> 4984.82] of our -[4984.82 --> 4985.36] understanding -[4985.36 --> 4985.80] of who -[4985.80 --> 4986.20] God -[4986.20 --> 4987.04] is. -[4988.36 --> 4988.60] In fact, -[4988.72 --> 4989.30] Irenaeus -[4989.30 --> 4990.32] is a -[4990.32 --> 4990.82] church father -[4990.82 --> 4991.20] from the -[4991.20 --> 4991.86] early second -[4991.86 --> 4992.44] century -[4992.44 --> 4993.38] of the -[4993.38 --> 4993.70] Christian -[4993.70 --> 4994.12] church, -[4994.14 --> 4994.46] and he -[4994.46 --> 4994.92] says, -[4995.40 --> 4996.46] rather plainly, -[4996.56 --> 4997.12] the glory -[4997.12 --> 4997.86] of God -[4997.86 --> 4998.48] is the -[4998.48 --> 4999.38] human being -[4999.38 --> 5000.00] fully -[5000.00 --> 5000.88] alive. -[5002.16 --> 5002.90] Part of -[5002.90 --> 5003.24] what that -[5003.24 --> 5003.76] means is -[5003.76 --> 5004.08] that for -[5004.08 --> 5004.56] us to -[5004.56 --> 5005.12] be fully -[5005.12 --> 5005.56] human, -[5005.76 --> 5006.04] fully -[5006.04 --> 5006.64] alive, -[5006.82 --> 5007.50] it means -[5007.50 --> 5007.86] we need -[5007.86 --> 5008.38] to rightly -[5008.38 --> 5009.18] encounter -[5009.18 --> 5010.50] and engage -[5010.50 --> 5011.84] and glorify -[5011.84 --> 5012.52] God. -[5014.24 --> 5014.56] And so -[5014.56 --> 5015.02] as we look -[5015.02 --> 5015.32] at what -[5015.32 --> 5016.30] Paul says -[5016.30 --> 5016.48] here, -[5016.56 --> 5016.78] we will -[5016.78 --> 5017.28] make four -[5017.28 --> 5017.76] points. -[5017.84 --> 5018.26] The first -[5018.26 --> 5019.12] point to -[5019.12 --> 5020.50] make is -[5020.50 --> 5021.56] that right -[5021.56 --> 5022.68] worship is -[5022.68 --> 5024.16] exalting in -[5024.16 --> 5024.92] who God -[5024.92 --> 5025.76] is and -[5025.76 --> 5026.52] what God -[5026.52 --> 5027.08] does. -[5028.06 --> 5028.76] Verse 33 -[5028.76 --> 5029.26] says, -[5029.98 --> 5030.18] Oh, -[5030.30 --> 5030.96] the depths -[5030.96 --> 5031.44] of the -[5031.44 --> 5032.12] riches of -[5032.12 --> 5032.64] the wisdom -[5032.64 --> 5033.20] and the -[5033.20 --> 5034.18] knowledge of -[5034.18 --> 5034.50] God. -[5035.60 --> 5035.82] Now, -[5036.16 --> 5037.28] if you -[5037.28 --> 5037.74] have -[5037.74 --> 5039.04] the eyes -[5039.04 --> 5039.52] to see -[5039.52 --> 5039.92] and to -[5039.92 --> 5040.30] remember -[5040.30 --> 5041.00] this long -[5041.00 --> 5041.28] journey -[5041.28 --> 5041.76] that we've -[5041.76 --> 5042.30] been on, -[5042.42 --> 5043.04] this is -[5043.04 --> 5043.64] not new -[5043.64 --> 5044.42] language for -[5044.42 --> 5044.74] Paul. -[5045.72 --> 5046.28] In the -[5046.28 --> 5046.80] beginning of -[5046.80 --> 5047.10] the letter, -[5047.20 --> 5047.74] already in -[5047.74 --> 5048.52] chapter 2, -[5049.02 --> 5049.68] Paul says, -[5049.86 --> 5050.18] Do you -[5050.18 --> 5050.94] show contempt -[5050.94 --> 5051.48] for the -[5051.48 --> 5052.30] riches of -[5052.30 --> 5053.14] his kindness, -[5053.68 --> 5054.34] forbearance, -[5054.48 --> 5055.06] and patience? -[5055.86 --> 5056.32] Throughout, -[5056.52 --> 5056.96] Paul's -[5056.96 --> 5057.58] theology -[5057.58 --> 5058.72] reveals the -[5058.72 --> 5059.08] riches, -[5059.38 --> 5060.48] the magnitude, -[5060.88 --> 5061.60] the abundance -[5061.60 --> 5062.52] of God's -[5062.52 --> 5063.06] kindness, -[5063.72 --> 5064.48] and his -[5064.48 --> 5065.36] forbearance. -[5065.78 --> 5066.42] That's a -[5066.42 --> 5067.48] fancy word -[5067.48 --> 5067.88] for his -[5067.88 --> 5068.54] waiting in -[5068.54 --> 5068.90] mercy, -[5069.10 --> 5069.38] his -[5069.38 --> 5070.16] forbearance, -[5070.24 --> 5070.84] and his -[5070.84 --> 5071.62] patience. -[5073.00 --> 5073.58] Paul uses -[5073.58 --> 5074.26] this same -[5074.26 --> 5075.26] language of -[5075.26 --> 5076.06] riches in -[5076.06 --> 5076.80] chapter 9, -[5076.90 --> 5077.68] in verse 23. -[5078.68 --> 5079.14] He says, -[5079.28 --> 5080.00] What if God -[5080.00 --> 5080.72] did this -[5080.72 --> 5081.24] to make -[5081.24 --> 5081.98] the riches -[5081.98 --> 5082.82] of his -[5082.82 --> 5083.94] glory known -[5083.94 --> 5084.44] to the -[5084.44 --> 5084.98] objects -[5084.98 --> 5085.74] of his -[5085.74 --> 5086.10] mercy? -[5087.68 --> 5088.48] If the -[5088.48 --> 5089.30] question of -[5089.30 --> 5090.28] right worship -[5090.28 --> 5091.70] centers around -[5091.70 --> 5092.24] the right -[5092.24 --> 5093.10] object of -[5093.10 --> 5093.46] worship, -[5093.78 --> 5094.38] we must -[5094.38 --> 5095.02] recognize, -[5095.22 --> 5095.38] therefore, -[5095.38 --> 5095.80] that it -[5095.80 --> 5096.88] is God -[5096.88 --> 5097.48] who is -[5097.48 --> 5098.30] rich in -[5098.30 --> 5099.14] glory, -[5099.82 --> 5100.22] and that -[5100.22 --> 5100.58] it means -[5100.58 --> 5100.94] that it -[5100.94 --> 5101.48] is God -[5101.48 --> 5101.92] who is -[5101.92 --> 5102.74] rich in -[5102.74 --> 5103.50] worthiness -[5103.50 --> 5103.94] to be -[5103.94 --> 5104.44] praised, -[5104.78 --> 5105.44] who is -[5105.44 --> 5106.24] the most -[5106.24 --> 5106.74] holy, -[5106.94 --> 5107.36] the most -[5107.36 --> 5107.78] righteous, -[5107.98 --> 5108.56] true light -[5108.56 --> 5109.48] of true -[5109.48 --> 5109.82] light. -[5111.40 --> 5112.00] And then -[5112.00 --> 5112.54] Paul continues -[5112.54 --> 5112.88] in the -[5112.88 --> 5114.42] same chapter, -[5115.06 --> 5115.96] Paul uses -[5115.96 --> 5116.40] the language -[5116.40 --> 5116.82] of riches -[5116.82 --> 5117.26] again, -[5117.58 --> 5118.12] talking about -[5118.12 --> 5118.80] the Gentiles -[5118.80 --> 5119.10] and the -[5119.10 --> 5119.56] Israelites -[5119.56 --> 5120.84] being saved -[5120.84 --> 5121.16] by the -[5121.16 --> 5121.58] mercy of -[5121.58 --> 5121.82] God. -[5121.90 --> 5122.16] In verse -[5122.16 --> 5122.44] 11, -[5122.52 --> 5122.86] he says, -[5123.38 --> 5123.86] if their -[5123.86 --> 5124.62] transgression -[5124.62 --> 5125.68] means riches -[5125.68 --> 5126.20] for the -[5126.20 --> 5127.20] world and -[5127.20 --> 5127.74] their loss -[5127.74 --> 5128.32] means riches -[5128.32 --> 5128.68] for the -[5128.68 --> 5129.18] Gentiles, -[5129.28 --> 5129.72] how much -[5129.72 --> 5130.56] greater riches -[5130.56 --> 5131.12] will their -[5131.12 --> 5132.16] full inclusion -[5132.16 --> 5132.96] bring? -[5133.84 --> 5134.50] The point -[5134.50 --> 5135.18] here that -[5135.18 --> 5136.00] brings Paul -[5136.00 --> 5136.70] to worship -[5136.70 --> 5137.34] is the -[5137.34 --> 5138.50] riches of -[5138.50 --> 5139.30] the magnitude -[5139.30 --> 5139.98] of God's -[5139.98 --> 5140.58] plan for -[5140.58 --> 5141.58] redemption, -[5141.82 --> 5142.46] for salvation. -[5143.42 --> 5143.64] And it -[5143.64 --> 5144.42] makes him -[5144.42 --> 5145.22] worthy of -[5145.22 --> 5145.58] praise, -[5145.68 --> 5146.20] makes God -[5146.20 --> 5146.88] worthy of -[5146.88 --> 5147.14] praise. -[5147.58 --> 5148.72] The scope -[5148.72 --> 5149.32] of God's -[5149.32 --> 5149.76] mercy, -[5149.88 --> 5150.30] the scope -[5150.30 --> 5150.78] of God's -[5150.78 --> 5151.22] redemption, -[5151.60 --> 5152.66] it is so -[5152.66 --> 5154.24] massive and -[5154.24 --> 5155.54] the majesty -[5155.54 --> 5156.20] of it just -[5156.20 --> 5157.52] makes Paul -[5157.52 --> 5158.38] sing. -[5159.70 --> 5160.14] He sings -[5160.14 --> 5160.64] about who -[5160.64 --> 5161.40] God is. -[5162.68 --> 5163.28] The depths -[5163.28 --> 5163.74] of the -[5163.74 --> 5164.20] riches of -[5164.20 --> 5164.68] God make -[5164.68 --> 5165.20] him worthy -[5165.20 --> 5165.82] of our -[5165.82 --> 5166.20] praise. -[5166.40 --> 5167.02] The depths -[5167.02 --> 5167.46] of the -[5167.46 --> 5167.92] riches of -[5167.92 --> 5168.52] the wisdom -[5168.52 --> 5169.14] of God, -[5169.24 --> 5170.42] his omniscience -[5170.42 --> 5170.98] make him -[5170.98 --> 5171.74] worthy of -[5171.74 --> 5172.18] praise. -[5173.64 --> 5174.64] It's his -[5174.64 --> 5175.90] wisdom and -[5175.90 --> 5176.64] his knowledge, -[5176.94 --> 5177.74] his omniscience -[5177.74 --> 5178.48] that in part -[5178.48 --> 5179.42] make God -[5179.42 --> 5179.82] God. -[5180.30 --> 5180.98] They're -[5180.98 --> 5181.70] characteristics -[5181.70 --> 5182.68] of his -[5182.68 --> 5183.84] Godness. -[5186.52 --> 5187.48] What we -[5187.48 --> 5187.78] begin to -[5187.78 --> 5188.36] see is -[5188.36 --> 5189.74] that right -[5189.74 --> 5190.74] doxology, -[5191.72 --> 5192.36] right worship, -[5192.88 --> 5193.70] requires -[5193.70 --> 5195.58] right theology. -[5196.58 --> 5197.12] Worship -[5197.12 --> 5198.42] exalts in -[5198.42 --> 5199.12] who God -[5199.12 --> 5199.96] is and -[5199.96 --> 5200.58] what God -[5200.58 --> 5201.42] does, -[5201.52 --> 5201.74] but it -[5201.74 --> 5202.68] is only -[5202.68 --> 5203.22] God's -[5203.22 --> 5203.78] revelation -[5203.78 --> 5204.62] of himself -[5204.62 --> 5205.22] then that -[5205.22 --> 5205.90] can inform -[5205.90 --> 5206.84] our worship -[5206.84 --> 5207.62] of God's -[5207.62 --> 5208.08] self. -[5208.08 --> 5208.90] right? -[5208.94 --> 5209.20] If we -[5209.20 --> 5210.18] begin to -[5210.18 --> 5210.62] substitute -[5210.62 --> 5211.32] personal -[5211.32 --> 5212.04] experience -[5212.04 --> 5212.38] in the -[5212.38 --> 5212.80] place of -[5212.80 --> 5212.90] an -[5212.90 --> 5213.44] experience -[5213.44 --> 5214.08] of God, -[5214.72 --> 5215.76] we miss -[5215.76 --> 5216.34] and are -[5216.34 --> 5216.70] missing -[5216.70 --> 5217.58] true worship -[5217.58 --> 5218.86] and therefore, -[5219.32 --> 5219.80] in line with -[5219.80 --> 5220.48] my thesis -[5220.48 --> 5220.94] for you this -[5220.94 --> 5221.22] morning, -[5221.64 --> 5221.92] we are -[5221.92 --> 5222.28] missing -[5222.28 --> 5223.12] our true -[5223.12 --> 5223.78] humanity. -[5225.46 --> 5225.74] Worship -[5225.74 --> 5226.90] is exalting -[5226.90 --> 5227.34] in who -[5227.34 --> 5228.02] God is -[5228.02 --> 5228.66] and what -[5228.66 --> 5229.10] God -[5229.10 --> 5229.88] has -[5229.88 --> 5230.50] done. -[5230.50 --> 5231.50] God -[5231.50 --> 5232.26] is -[5232.26 --> 5232.58] the second -[5232.58 --> 5232.98] thing to -[5232.98 --> 5234.32] see from -[5234.32 --> 5234.84] Paul's -[5234.84 --> 5235.56] doxology -[5235.56 --> 5237.52] is that -[5237.52 --> 5238.44] right worship -[5238.44 --> 5240.32] will involve, -[5240.48 --> 5241.10] necessarily -[5241.10 --> 5241.98] involves, -[5242.54 --> 5243.06] mystery. -[5244.14 --> 5244.40] At the -[5244.40 --> 5245.18] second part -[5245.18 --> 5245.58] of verse -[5245.58 --> 5246.08] 33, -[5246.72 --> 5247.16] Paul says -[5247.16 --> 5248.54] how unsearchable -[5248.54 --> 5249.36] his judgments -[5249.36 --> 5250.16] and his -[5250.16 --> 5251.30] path beyond -[5251.30 --> 5252.44] tracing out. -[5253.80 --> 5254.44] The reality -[5254.44 --> 5254.74] here, -[5254.78 --> 5254.94] right, -[5255.00 --> 5255.62] is that if -[5255.62 --> 5256.12] we are -[5256.12 --> 5256.82] worshiping -[5256.82 --> 5257.30] the true -[5257.30 --> 5258.16] God as -[5258.16 --> 5258.58] he is -[5258.58 --> 5259.26] revealed in -[5259.26 --> 5259.74] the Bible, -[5259.74 --> 5260.78] that also -[5260.78 --> 5261.56] means there -[5261.56 --> 5262.58] will necessarily -[5262.58 --> 5263.60] be things -[5263.60 --> 5264.36] about God -[5264.36 --> 5265.04] that we -[5265.04 --> 5265.50] cannot -[5265.50 --> 5266.96] or do -[5266.96 --> 5267.68] not and -[5267.68 --> 5268.56] will never -[5268.56 --> 5269.30] comprehend. -[5274.28 --> 5275.26] If the -[5275.26 --> 5275.88] God you -[5275.88 --> 5276.44] worship -[5276.44 --> 5277.56] makes sense -[5277.56 --> 5278.02] to you, -[5278.98 --> 5279.58] he is not -[5279.58 --> 5279.88] God. -[5282.06 --> 5282.30] Now, -[5283.30 --> 5284.14] God wants -[5284.14 --> 5284.84] to be known -[5284.84 --> 5285.50] and he wants -[5285.50 --> 5285.92] to make -[5285.92 --> 5286.72] himself known -[5286.72 --> 5287.10] and so -[5287.10 --> 5287.90] what is -[5287.90 --> 5288.78] necessary to -[5288.78 --> 5289.20] be known -[5289.20 --> 5289.66] about God -[5289.66 --> 5290.18] can be -[5290.18 --> 5290.82] known about -[5290.82 --> 5291.04] him. -[5292.14 --> 5292.88] But don't -[5292.88 --> 5293.44] mistake what -[5293.44 --> 5294.08] is necessary -[5294.08 --> 5294.64] to be known -[5294.64 --> 5295.12] about God -[5295.12 --> 5295.44] for the -[5295.44 --> 5296.40] whole of -[5296.40 --> 5296.78] who God -[5296.78 --> 5297.08] is. -[5300.40 --> 5300.88] Now, -[5300.92 --> 5301.24] this means -[5301.24 --> 5302.60] a couple -[5302.60 --> 5302.96] things. -[5305.56 --> 5306.28] But most -[5306.28 --> 5306.74] importantly, -[5307.14 --> 5307.54] perhaps, -[5308.58 --> 5309.52] it means -[5309.52 --> 5311.10] that -[5311.10 --> 5313.46] it is -[5313.46 --> 5314.38] unreasonable -[5314.38 --> 5315.70] God is -[5315.70 --> 5316.16] for me -[5316.16 --> 5316.90] to have -[5316.90 --> 5316.92] to have -[5316.92 --> 5316.94] to have -[5316.94 --> 5318.66] an expectation -[5318.66 --> 5319.64] that everything -[5319.64 --> 5320.56] God does -[5320.56 --> 5321.20] or everything -[5321.20 --> 5322.38] God will -[5322.38 --> 5323.12] do will -[5323.12 --> 5323.76] make sense -[5323.76 --> 5324.22] to me, -[5325.16 --> 5325.82] will make -[5325.82 --> 5326.56] sense to my -[5326.56 --> 5327.26] experience, -[5327.26 --> 5327.84] or will make -[5327.84 --> 5328.40] sense to my -[5328.40 --> 5328.72] brain. -[5330.80 --> 5331.70] Some of us -[5331.70 --> 5332.96] have been so -[5332.96 --> 5333.80] angry with -[5333.80 --> 5334.56] God because -[5334.56 --> 5335.16] it doesn't make -[5335.16 --> 5336.10] sense what -[5336.10 --> 5336.70] he is doing -[5336.70 --> 5337.36] or what he is -[5337.36 --> 5337.98] not doing -[5337.98 --> 5338.94] that we've just -[5338.94 --> 5339.76] denied his -[5339.76 --> 5340.52] existence as a -[5340.52 --> 5340.78] result. -[5340.78 --> 5341.10] But that -[5341.10 --> 5341.74] rests on the -[5341.74 --> 5342.72] idea that -[5342.72 --> 5343.34] whatever God -[5343.34 --> 5344.08] does has to -[5344.08 --> 5344.50] make sense -[5344.50 --> 5344.86] to me. -[5345.94 --> 5346.60] But that's -[5346.60 --> 5347.06] not the God -[5347.06 --> 5347.54] of the Bible. -[5348.70 --> 5349.68] It can't be -[5349.68 --> 5350.92] that simple. -[5352.50 --> 5353.10] And in fact, -[5353.62 --> 5354.90] if we read -[5354.90 --> 5355.56] the Bible from -[5355.56 --> 5355.96] beginning to -[5355.96 --> 5356.40] end, you -[5356.40 --> 5356.80] have people -[5356.80 --> 5357.52] like Job, -[5358.36 --> 5358.76] right, who -[5358.76 --> 5359.38] tried to -[5359.38 --> 5359.84] think that -[5359.84 --> 5360.18] way. -[5361.00 --> 5361.40] And if you -[5361.40 --> 5361.64] know the -[5361.64 --> 5362.28] end of Job, -[5362.98 --> 5363.86] sure changed. -[5364.38 --> 5364.60] You have -[5364.60 --> 5365.02] people like -[5365.02 --> 5366.12] Habakkuk or -[5366.12 --> 5367.32] Ezekiel who -[5367.32 --> 5368.46] were overwhelmed -[5368.46 --> 5369.58] by the mystery -[5369.58 --> 5370.52] of this -[5370.52 --> 5371.28] amazing God. -[5371.32 --> 5371.68] Or you have -[5371.68 --> 5372.10] people like -[5372.10 --> 5372.54] Mary, -[5372.90 --> 5373.58] blessed Mary, -[5373.82 --> 5374.12] when the -[5374.12 --> 5374.76] angel came to -[5374.76 --> 5375.22] her and said -[5375.22 --> 5375.68] this is going -[5375.68 --> 5375.96] on, she -[5375.96 --> 5376.50] said, how -[5376.50 --> 5377.30] can this -[5377.30 --> 5377.94] be? -[5379.46 --> 5380.42] There will -[5380.42 --> 5381.50] be a -[5381.50 --> 5382.70] mystery in -[5382.70 --> 5383.48] our experience -[5383.48 --> 5384.28] of God and -[5384.28 --> 5385.26] so there must -[5385.26 --> 5386.68] be a mystery -[5386.68 --> 5387.86] in our theology. -[5388.00 --> 5388.34] There must be -[5388.34 --> 5389.50] room for the -[5389.50 --> 5390.06] mystery, for -[5390.06 --> 5391.02] the unknown. -[5391.78 --> 5392.12] And in fact, -[5392.54 --> 5393.30] we participated -[5393.30 --> 5394.48] in some of -[5394.48 --> 5395.08] that mystery -[5395.08 --> 5395.72] this morning -[5395.72 --> 5396.46] in baptism. -[5397.60 --> 5397.72] Right? -[5397.82 --> 5398.80] Precisely how -[5398.80 --> 5399.64] a sacrament -[5399.64 --> 5400.96] is used by -[5400.96 --> 5401.52] God as a -[5401.52 --> 5401.96] means of -[5401.96 --> 5402.84] grace, whether -[5402.84 --> 5403.52] it's baptism -[5403.52 --> 5404.28] in the water -[5404.28 --> 5405.28] calling this -[5405.28 --> 5406.30] child, beautiful -[5406.30 --> 5407.24] Ava, into a -[5407.24 --> 5408.04] covenant relationship -[5408.04 --> 5408.88] with God, or -[5408.88 --> 5409.76] whether next week -[5409.76 --> 5410.34] when we come to -[5410.34 --> 5411.06] the Lord's table -[5411.06 --> 5412.08] it's the mystery -[5412.08 --> 5412.70] of how the -[5412.70 --> 5413.70] bread and the -[5413.70 --> 5414.46] juice become -[5414.46 --> 5415.32] for us the -[5415.32 --> 5416.30] real spiritual -[5416.30 --> 5417.20] presence of the -[5417.20 --> 5417.90] body and blood -[5417.90 --> 5418.42] of Jesus. -[5418.80 --> 5420.04] These mysteries -[5420.04 --> 5421.12] are necessary -[5421.12 --> 5422.98] for us to -[5422.98 --> 5423.84] engage and be -[5423.84 --> 5425.52] engaged by God. -[5425.52 --> 5425.54] God. -[5428.24 --> 5428.94] And here's -[5428.94 --> 5429.28] what I want -[5429.28 --> 5429.78] you to hear -[5429.78 --> 5431.80] because even -[5431.80 --> 5432.48] as confusing -[5432.48 --> 5432.86] and as -[5432.86 --> 5433.58] difficult and -[5433.58 --> 5435.46] as obfuscating -[5435.46 --> 5436.04] as the -[5436.04 --> 5436.76] mysteries of -[5436.76 --> 5437.26] God are, -[5437.34 --> 5437.96] and I use -[5437.96 --> 5438.26] that word -[5438.26 --> 5438.74] intentionally -[5438.74 --> 5439.62] because the -[5439.62 --> 5440.40] word obfuscate -[5440.40 --> 5440.86] means to -[5440.86 --> 5441.44] confuse and -[5441.44 --> 5441.84] whenever you -[5441.84 --> 5442.32] hear it you're -[5442.32 --> 5442.92] confused about -[5442.92 --> 5443.36] what the word -[5443.36 --> 5443.74] means. -[5445.58 --> 5446.40] These things -[5446.40 --> 5447.30] are necessary -[5447.30 --> 5448.24] for our -[5448.24 --> 5449.46] worship to -[5449.46 --> 5450.78] be genuine, -[5450.96 --> 5451.64] both genuine -[5451.64 --> 5452.32] in the sense -[5452.32 --> 5453.08] of the -[5453.08 --> 5453.76] worshiping of -[5453.76 --> 5454.26] the one true -[5454.26 --> 5454.98] God, but also -[5454.98 --> 5455.70] genuine in the -[5455.70 --> 5456.60] sense of this -[5456.60 --> 5457.34] is me, all -[5457.34 --> 5458.22] of who I am, -[5458.58 --> 5459.32] questions and -[5459.32 --> 5460.16] doubts and -[5460.16 --> 5461.40] struggles alike -[5461.40 --> 5462.36] in the presence -[5462.36 --> 5463.52] of this God -[5463.52 --> 5463.90] is. -[5464.16 --> 5464.88] Because there is -[5464.88 --> 5465.74] mystery in God -[5465.74 --> 5466.56] that means we -[5466.56 --> 5467.24] can bring our -[5467.24 --> 5468.36] doubts and our -[5468.36 --> 5469.34] things unknown -[5469.34 --> 5470.68] and the things -[5470.68 --> 5471.84] unknown of our -[5471.84 --> 5472.72] lives and of our -[5472.72 --> 5473.84] stories into the -[5473.84 --> 5475.06] relationship that -[5475.06 --> 5475.90] we have with God, -[5475.98 --> 5476.60] into the very -[5476.60 --> 5478.10] worship of who -[5478.10 --> 5479.08] God is. -[5479.56 --> 5480.52] Having doubts -[5480.52 --> 5481.80] and being amazed -[5481.80 --> 5482.46] at the mysteries -[5482.46 --> 5483.74] of faith is not -[5483.76 --> 5484.76] a weak faith, -[5484.88 --> 5485.70] it is an act -[5485.70 --> 5486.58] of faith. -[5487.74 --> 5488.66] The journey of -[5488.66 --> 5489.26] faith for the -[5489.26 --> 5490.22] Christian and -[5490.22 --> 5491.52] of discipleship is -[5491.52 --> 5492.32] faith-seeking -[5492.32 --> 5493.68] understanding, yes -[5493.68 --> 5494.94] and amen, but it -[5494.94 --> 5496.76] is also faith-seeking -[5496.76 --> 5497.40] humility. -[5498.66 --> 5499.92] It is a faith-seeking -[5499.92 --> 5500.88] a right recognition -[5500.88 --> 5501.82] of who God is -[5501.82 --> 5502.68] and what that means -[5502.68 --> 5503.40] for my willingness -[5503.40 --> 5504.70] to accept and -[5504.70 --> 5505.88] to worship in the -[5505.88 --> 5506.48] midst of those -[5506.48 --> 5507.14] things that I do -[5507.14 --> 5508.78] not know, in the -[5508.78 --> 5509.22] midst of those -[5509.22 --> 5509.68] things that I -[5509.68 --> 5510.60] cannot understand. -[5510.60 --> 5511.60] faith-seeking -[5511.60 --> 5513.84] and let me be -[5513.84 --> 5515.64] really clear about -[5515.64 --> 5516.12] this then. -[5517.22 --> 5519.66] Far from rejecting -[5519.66 --> 5521.42] your doubts, far -[5521.42 --> 5523.56] from ignoring your -[5523.56 --> 5524.78] doubts, far from -[5524.78 --> 5525.96] trying to bury them -[5525.96 --> 5527.46] deep within us and -[5527.46 --> 5528.68] not being a place -[5528.68 --> 5529.42] here where we can -[5529.42 --> 5530.22] talk about them and -[5530.22 --> 5531.44] engage them and hold -[5531.44 --> 5532.24] them up and ask -[5532.24 --> 5533.46] questions and bring -[5533.46 --> 5534.22] them into the light, -[5534.54 --> 5535.72] far from that, right -[5535.72 --> 5537.46] worship is precisely -[5537.46 --> 5538.82] the place to bring -[5538.82 --> 5539.36] your doubts. -[5540.52 --> 5541.22] Right worship is -[5541.22 --> 5542.30] precisely the place -[5542.30 --> 5543.86] to enter into the -[5543.86 --> 5546.12] things unknown as -[5546.12 --> 5546.92] we're met by God -[5546.92 --> 5547.56] here. -[5548.52 --> 5549.58] In fact, this moves -[5549.58 --> 5550.54] us right into the -[5550.54 --> 5551.74] third thing to see -[5551.74 --> 5553.24] from Paul's doxology -[5553.24 --> 5555.44] that helps us inform -[5555.44 --> 5556.90] our worship together. -[5557.60 --> 5559.72] Paul himself brings -[5559.72 --> 5560.54] his questions. -[5561.54 --> 5562.64] You notice in verse -[5562.64 --> 5564.80] 34 and 35 he's -[5564.80 --> 5565.46] asking questions. -[5566.28 --> 5567.12] Who has known the -[5567.12 --> 5568.00] mind of the Lord or -[5568.00 --> 5568.94] who has been his -[5568.94 --> 5569.36] counselor? -[5569.86 --> 5570.78] Who has ever given -[5570.78 --> 5571.82] to God that God -[5571.82 --> 5572.64] should repay them? -[5573.44 --> 5574.10] If you have -[5574.10 --> 5575.36] questions, bring them -[5575.36 --> 5577.76] to worship because -[5577.76 --> 5579.22] we are thinking -[5579.22 --> 5579.76] creatures. -[5580.32 --> 5580.94] We will have -[5580.94 --> 5581.44] questions. -[5581.58 --> 5582.30] We will have -[5582.30 --> 5583.00] doubts. -[5583.44 --> 5585.28] In fact, I -[5585.28 --> 5586.36] mentioned Descartes -[5586.36 --> 5587.40] earlier, his famous -[5587.40 --> 5588.64] line, cogito ergo -[5588.64 --> 5588.92] sum. -[5589.78 --> 5591.22] Later in life, in a -[5591.22 --> 5592.86] posthumously published -[5592.86 --> 5594.14] essay that he wrote, -[5594.46 --> 5596.12] he actually expands that -[5596.12 --> 5597.48] idea and he says, -[5597.86 --> 5599.50] I doubt, therefore I -[5599.50 --> 5601.84] think, and so I am. -[5603.38 --> 5604.66] Ask your questions. -[5605.52 --> 5606.36] Have your doubts. -[5606.80 --> 5607.90] Wrestle with them and -[5607.90 --> 5609.92] bring them into the -[5609.92 --> 5611.90] place where God is. -[5612.52 --> 5613.86] Having doubts, asking -[5613.86 --> 5615.40] questions is part of what -[5615.40 --> 5617.00] it means to be human. -[5618.00 --> 5619.98] And so it also needs to -[5619.98 --> 5621.48] be part of what it means -[5621.48 --> 5623.62] to encounter God in -[5623.62 --> 5624.44] worship. -[5625.82 --> 5626.94] Now it's also worth -[5626.94 --> 5628.50] noting that these two -[5628.50 --> 5629.52] questions that Paul -[5629.52 --> 5631.32] asks are quotes from -[5631.32 --> 5632.60] Old Testament passages. -[5633.46 --> 5634.90] The first question in -[5634.90 --> 5636.32] verse 34 is a quote -[5636.32 --> 5637.78] from Isaiah 40 verse -[5637.78 --> 5641.88] 13 from the Greek -[5641.88 --> 5643.12] translation of the Old -[5643.12 --> 5644.00] Testament and then the -[5644.00 --> 5645.70] next one is from Job -[5645.70 --> 5647.48] 41 verse 11. -[5647.48 --> 5650.32] Now these questions -[5650.32 --> 5652.12] themselves are an -[5652.12 --> 5654.06] exalting of who God -[5654.06 --> 5654.48] is. -[5655.82 --> 5656.60] So hold those two -[5656.60 --> 5657.08] things together. -[5657.26 --> 5658.94] Questions are welcome -[5658.94 --> 5660.28] and are necessary in the -[5660.28 --> 5661.08] life of the believer, -[5661.38 --> 5663.06] but our questions must -[5663.06 --> 5664.94] also be brought under -[5664.94 --> 5667.26] the perspective of -[5667.26 --> 5668.40] God's word. -[5669.58 --> 5671.10] Paul uses scripture to -[5671.10 --> 5672.10] speak his questions, -[5672.30 --> 5672.86] but then he also -[5672.86 --> 5674.90] submits his questions to -[5674.90 --> 5676.26] the rule of scripture. -[5676.26 --> 5678.76] And so in our worship -[5678.76 --> 5680.30] we submit ourselves to -[5680.30 --> 5681.22] the rule of scripture. -[5681.34 --> 5682.68] That's why the preached -[5682.68 --> 5683.96] word is in many -[5683.96 --> 5685.18] respects the culmination -[5685.18 --> 5686.02] of our worship -[5686.02 --> 5687.12] experiences together. -[5687.58 --> 5688.74] Not because I'm any -[5688.74 --> 5689.60] good at this job, -[5690.42 --> 5691.84] but because God is -[5691.84 --> 5693.18] good and he is -[5693.18 --> 5694.60] faithful and he has -[5694.60 --> 5695.66] revealed himself in -[5695.66 --> 5697.02] this way to us. -[5697.54 --> 5698.40] This is where God -[5698.40 --> 5699.86] speaks to our hearts -[5699.86 --> 5700.72] and to our minds. -[5700.84 --> 5701.66] This is where in -[5701.66 --> 5703.22] chapter 12 we will see -[5703.22 --> 5704.26] he does the transforming -[5704.82 --> 5706.24] of our minds by the -[5706.24 --> 5708.24] renewing and work -[5708.24 --> 5709.22] of the Holy Spirit. -[5709.38 --> 5710.96] This is what shapes -[5710.96 --> 5712.28] our spiritual acts -[5712.28 --> 5713.26] of worship as we -[5713.26 --> 5714.24] leave this place -[5714.24 --> 5715.08] together. -[5716.76 --> 5718.12] Which then brings us -[5718.12 --> 5719.46] to the fourth thing -[5719.46 --> 5722.10] in this doxology -[5722.10 --> 5723.54] of Paul that informs -[5723.54 --> 5725.14] our worship. -[5727.66 --> 5729.72] Doxology requires -[5729.72 --> 5731.54] humble submission -[5731.54 --> 5733.06] salvation before the -[5733.06 --> 5734.22] throne of God. -[5735.28 --> 5736.20] Verse 36. -[5737.20 --> 5737.82] Paul says, -[5738.36 --> 5739.12] For from him -[5739.12 --> 5740.10] and through him -[5740.10 --> 5741.28] and for him -[5741.28 --> 5743.24] are all things. -[5744.68 --> 5745.58] So where does -[5745.58 --> 5746.38] everything come from? -[5747.00 --> 5747.78] It comes from him, -[5748.08 --> 5748.32] God. -[5748.88 --> 5749.92] How does everything -[5749.92 --> 5750.58] come to be? -[5751.00 --> 5751.58] Through him, -[5751.90 --> 5752.18] God. -[5752.66 --> 5753.50] Why does everything -[5753.50 --> 5753.84] exist? -[5753.96 --> 5754.70] Who is it for? -[5754.92 --> 5755.70] It's for him, -[5756.08 --> 5756.40] God. -[5756.40 --> 5756.48] God. -[5757.48 --> 5758.46] And so really -[5758.46 --> 5759.04] practically, -[5760.48 --> 5765.42] if it has become -[5765.42 --> 5767.94] commonplace for you -[5767.94 --> 5769.24] after worship -[5769.24 --> 5770.36] to say something -[5770.36 --> 5770.78] like, -[5771.38 --> 5772.50] I didn't get anything -[5772.50 --> 5773.54] out of worship today -[5773.54 --> 5774.94] or I didn't get -[5774.94 --> 5775.76] anything out of the -[5775.76 --> 5776.50] service today, -[5776.86 --> 5777.82] I want to challenge -[5777.82 --> 5779.38] you with Paul's call -[5779.38 --> 5780.24] to humble submission. -[5780.60 --> 5781.70] And I want to reframe -[5781.70 --> 5782.64] the question for you. -[5783.60 --> 5784.52] Instead of saying, -[5784.66 --> 5785.30] I didn't get anything -[5785.30 --> 5785.80] out of worship, -[5785.94 --> 5786.78] I want you to ask, -[5786.96 --> 5788.42] what did I give to God -[5788.42 --> 5789.22] during worship? -[5791.48 --> 5792.92] What did I give to God -[5792.92 --> 5793.86] when the fellowship -[5793.86 --> 5794.64] of the saints -[5794.64 --> 5795.52] gathered together, -[5795.62 --> 5796.54] when the body of Jesus -[5796.54 --> 5797.48] Christ came together? -[5797.64 --> 5799.06] What did I bring to him? -[5803.78 --> 5804.54] And I don't think -[5804.54 --> 5805.54] it's too strong to say, -[5805.80 --> 5807.42] if you reframe -[5807.42 --> 5808.38] that question -[5808.38 --> 5810.02] and if you shape -[5810.02 --> 5810.82] your entrance -[5810.82 --> 5811.98] into this sanctuary -[5811.98 --> 5813.20] as you come through -[5813.20 --> 5813.72] those doors -[5813.72 --> 5814.48] every morning, -[5814.76 --> 5815.34] every Sunday -[5815.34 --> 5815.76] by saying, -[5815.86 --> 5816.76] what can I bring to you -[5816.76 --> 5817.44] in worship today, -[5817.52 --> 5817.74] God? -[5818.84 --> 5820.00] I can promise -[5820.00 --> 5821.22] that will begin -[5821.22 --> 5822.42] to work in you -[5822.42 --> 5823.72] and that will change -[5823.72 --> 5824.82] what you get -[5824.82 --> 5825.74] out of worship. -[5827.10 --> 5828.14] Because you have -[5828.14 --> 5829.28] changed your posture -[5829.28 --> 5830.48] in entering into -[5830.48 --> 5830.98] this place -[5830.98 --> 5831.34] and saying, -[5831.54 --> 5832.12] it is about -[5832.12 --> 5833.06] who God is -[5833.06 --> 5834.24] and exalting him -[5834.24 --> 5835.08] and so I am going -[5835.08 --> 5836.02] to give myself -[5836.02 --> 5837.02] to him. -[5839.82 --> 5840.30] Worship, -[5840.56 --> 5840.80] right? -[5840.80 --> 5842.34] Worship gives you -[5842.34 --> 5843.32] a right perspective -[5843.32 --> 5844.12] on God -[5844.12 --> 5845.46] which then in turn -[5845.46 --> 5846.46] gives you a right -[5846.46 --> 5847.66] perspective on yourself. -[5848.84 --> 5850.04] That's why the glory -[5850.04 --> 5851.10] of God is the human -[5851.10 --> 5852.16] being fully alive. -[5852.30 --> 5853.04] That's why the -[5853.04 --> 5853.90] Westminster Shorter -[5853.90 --> 5854.96] Catechism puts it -[5854.96 --> 5856.20] in this way. -[5856.32 --> 5857.32] It asks the question, -[5857.44 --> 5858.36] what is the chief -[5858.36 --> 5860.20] end of every person? -[5861.50 --> 5862.30] And the answer is -[5862.30 --> 5863.74] to glorify God -[5863.74 --> 5865.38] and enjoy him -[5865.38 --> 5866.56] forever. -[5866.56 --> 5866.66] forever. -[5870.30 --> 5870.82] Now, -[5871.22 --> 5873.12] we would miss -[5873.12 --> 5874.76] the majesty -[5874.76 --> 5876.86] of this humble -[5876.86 --> 5877.52] submission. -[5878.60 --> 5879.52] We would miss -[5879.52 --> 5880.20] the majesty -[5880.20 --> 5881.32] of who this God -[5881.32 --> 5882.48] is if we did -[5882.48 --> 5883.76] not also notice -[5883.76 --> 5884.92] that what Paul -[5884.92 --> 5885.44] says here, -[5885.54 --> 5886.10] for from him -[5886.10 --> 5886.64] and through him -[5886.64 --> 5887.26] and for him -[5887.26 --> 5888.00] are all things, -[5888.06 --> 5888.94] to him be the glory -[5888.94 --> 5889.40] forever. -[5889.80 --> 5890.78] What Paul says here -[5890.78 --> 5893.16] sounds to my ear -[5893.16 --> 5895.38] so much like -[5895.38 --> 5896.24] what Paul writes -[5896.24 --> 5897.38] in Colossians 1. -[5898.04 --> 5898.92] Colossians 1, -[5899.00 --> 5900.06] 16 and 17, -[5900.66 --> 5901.32] Paul says, -[5901.84 --> 5903.06] now of Jesus -[5903.06 --> 5904.94] all things -[5904.94 --> 5905.88] have been created -[5905.88 --> 5906.72] through him -[5906.72 --> 5908.02] and for him. -[5908.10 --> 5908.86] He is before -[5908.86 --> 5909.58] all things -[5909.58 --> 5910.54] and in him -[5910.54 --> 5911.52] all things -[5911.52 --> 5912.72] hold together. -[5913.92 --> 5914.96] That text in Colossians -[5914.96 --> 5915.80] is about Jesus -[5915.80 --> 5917.10] and yet you see -[5917.10 --> 5918.24] how remarkably -[5918.24 --> 5920.04] similar it is -[5920.04 --> 5920.58] to what Paul -[5920.58 --> 5921.16] says here. -[5921.76 --> 5922.74] And in Colossians, -[5923.16 --> 5924.14] Paul goes through -[5924.14 --> 5925.12] this amazing -[5925.12 --> 5926.36] Christ hymn -[5926.36 --> 5927.52] exalting Jesus -[5927.52 --> 5928.20] saying that -[5928.20 --> 5929.60] he is the image -[5929.60 --> 5931.28] of the invisible God -[5931.28 --> 5931.76] saying that -[5931.76 --> 5932.96] God chose to have -[5932.96 --> 5933.56] the fullness -[5933.56 --> 5934.62] of who he is -[5934.62 --> 5936.32] dwell in Jesus -[5936.32 --> 5937.32] that in all things -[5937.32 --> 5938.54] Christ might have -[5938.54 --> 5939.16] the supremacy. -[5940.16 --> 5940.82] And so when we -[5940.82 --> 5941.86] gather in this place -[5941.86 --> 5942.72] and we talk about -[5942.72 --> 5943.50] what does it mean -[5943.50 --> 5944.42] to be fully human, -[5944.78 --> 5945.54] fully alive, -[5945.86 --> 5946.98] we must look to Jesus. -[5947.88 --> 5948.56] When we gather -[5948.56 --> 5949.10] in this place -[5949.10 --> 5949.66] and we talk about -[5949.66 --> 5950.24] what does it mean -[5950.24 --> 5951.32] to worship God, -[5951.50 --> 5952.60] we must look to Jesus. -[5952.74 --> 5953.76] who is God -[5953.76 --> 5954.36] and made himself -[5954.36 --> 5955.32] known to us, -[5955.54 --> 5956.40] made himself visible -[5956.40 --> 5956.94] to us. -[5957.06 --> 5957.80] When we gather -[5957.80 --> 5958.66] in this place -[5958.66 --> 5959.72] to worship God -[5959.72 --> 5960.66] and to wrestle -[5960.66 --> 5962.04] with our humanity, -[5962.04 --> 5963.22] we must see -[5963.22 --> 5963.98] the humility -[5963.98 --> 5965.00] of God himself -[5965.00 --> 5965.48] in Jesus -[5965.48 --> 5967.20] who took on -[5967.20 --> 5967.74] the form -[5967.74 --> 5968.56] of a slave -[5968.56 --> 5969.96] and being found -[5969.96 --> 5971.54] in human likeness -[5971.54 --> 5972.44] became obedient -[5972.44 --> 5973.52] unto death, -[5973.64 --> 5974.42] even death -[5974.42 --> 5975.52] on the cross. -[5976.12 --> 5976.42] You see, -[5976.52 --> 5977.42] this is who -[5977.42 --> 5978.28] God is. -[5978.28 --> 5979.06] This is what -[5979.06 --> 5979.94] God has done. -[5980.04 --> 5980.74] This is why -[5980.74 --> 5981.92] we exalt in him -[5981.92 --> 5982.86] because Jesus, -[5983.28 --> 5983.96] God himself, -[5984.12 --> 5985.04] came into this world -[5985.04 --> 5985.94] and lived the life -[5985.94 --> 5986.94] I should have lived -[5986.94 --> 5987.90] and died the death -[5987.90 --> 5989.06] that I deserve. -[5989.20 --> 5990.34] And so now -[5990.34 --> 5991.48] I see the truth -[5991.48 --> 5992.50] of who I am -[5992.50 --> 5994.10] revealed in the truth -[5994.10 --> 5995.84] of who Jesus is -[5995.84 --> 5997.64] and so I will -[5997.64 --> 5999.08] praise him. -[5999.08 --> 6002.52] worship is about -[6002.52 --> 6003.52] Jesus. -[6007.22 --> 6008.46] And then the last word. -[6009.88 --> 6010.90] The last word. -[6011.06 --> 6011.90] To him be the glory -[6011.90 --> 6012.38] forever. -[6013.72 --> 6014.10] Amen. -[6015.38 --> 6015.76] Amen. -[6016.66 --> 6017.40] Now let me be -[6017.40 --> 6018.80] real quick on this. -[6018.96 --> 6020.64] Amen is a word -[6020.64 --> 6021.46] that means -[6021.46 --> 6022.02] trustworthy -[6022.02 --> 6023.30] or true. -[6024.62 --> 6025.18] Colloquially, -[6025.60 --> 6026.90] it's like when you -[6026.90 --> 6027.74] or your friends -[6027.74 --> 6028.48] say something -[6028.48 --> 6029.48] that you agree with -[6029.48 --> 6030.08] or that you think -[6030.08 --> 6030.64] is important -[6030.64 --> 6031.72] and if you're -[6031.72 --> 6032.30] a millennial -[6032.30 --> 6032.78] you might have -[6032.78 --> 6033.22] said something -[6033.22 --> 6033.86] like truth. -[6035.08 --> 6035.92] If you're -[6035.92 --> 6036.84] younger than -[6036.84 --> 6037.34] a millennial -[6037.34 --> 6037.86] you might say -[6037.86 --> 6038.38] something like -[6038.38 --> 6038.84] facts. -[6041.28 --> 6042.22] In the Jewish -[6042.22 --> 6043.24] synagogue tradition -[6043.24 --> 6045.28] then carried over -[6045.28 --> 6046.36] into early Christianity -[6046.36 --> 6047.62] when someone -[6047.62 --> 6048.78] finished reading -[6048.78 --> 6050.16] or giving a discourse -[6050.16 --> 6051.36] or had offered -[6051.36 --> 6052.26] a powerful prayer -[6052.26 --> 6052.90] to God -[6052.90 --> 6054.10] the other people -[6054.10 --> 6054.92] in the assembly -[6054.92 --> 6055.94] would respond -[6055.94 --> 6056.76] by saying -[6056.76 --> 6057.22] amen. -[6057.74 --> 6058.66] And the idea -[6058.66 --> 6059.34] there is that -[6059.34 --> 6059.80] it takes -[6059.80 --> 6060.40] what was just -[6060.40 --> 6060.76] said -[6060.76 --> 6061.42] and it makes -[6061.42 --> 6062.20] it your own. -[6063.18 --> 6063.82] So when you -[6063.82 --> 6064.58] say amen -[6064.58 --> 6065.48] it takes the -[6065.48 --> 6065.98] truth -[6065.98 --> 6067.32] that I am -[6067.32 --> 6067.70] saying -[6067.70 --> 6068.24] or that the -[6068.24 --> 6068.82] speaker is -[6068.82 --> 6069.20] saying -[6069.20 --> 6069.72] and it -[6069.72 --> 6070.56] proclaims it -[6070.56 --> 6071.10] for yourself -[6071.10 --> 6071.84] saying yes -[6071.84 --> 6073.12] this is mine. -[6073.90 --> 6074.68] It's like you -[6074.68 --> 6075.34] saying yes -[6075.34 --> 6075.80] Lord -[6075.80 --> 6077.18] this is -[6077.18 --> 6077.64] true -[6077.64 --> 6078.28] make it -[6078.28 --> 6078.82] so -[6078.82 --> 6079.64] for me. -[6082.26 --> 6083.26] You got it. -[6084.40 --> 6085.12] Remember at the -[6085.12 --> 6085.52] beginning of the -[6085.52 --> 6086.12] service I said -[6086.12 --> 6086.80] at some point -[6086.80 --> 6087.20] you will have -[6087.20 --> 6087.64] a voluntary -[6087.64 --> 6088.20] participation. -[6088.80 --> 6089.56] This is your -[6089.56 --> 6090.46] perhaps less than -[6090.46 --> 6091.40] voluntary participation -[6091.40 --> 6091.92] point. -[6093.78 --> 6094.08] Worship -[6094.08 --> 6095.38] exalts God. -[6095.48 --> 6095.64] Amen? -[6097.26 --> 6098.54] Worship celebrates -[6098.54 --> 6099.18] the mystery -[6099.18 --> 6099.86] and has room -[6099.86 --> 6100.60] for your doubts. -[6102.06 --> 6103.26] Worship invites -[6103.26 --> 6103.96] your questions -[6103.96 --> 6104.86] and calls you -[6104.86 --> 6105.70] to submit them -[6105.70 --> 6106.36] to the scriptures. -[6108.46 --> 6109.24] That's a harder -[6109.24 --> 6109.80] one isn't it? -[6109.80 --> 6111.92] And worship -[6111.92 --> 6113.20] requires humble -[6113.20 --> 6113.84] submission -[6113.84 --> 6115.86] seeing yourself -[6115.86 --> 6116.58] as you truly -[6116.58 --> 6117.58] are before God. -[6118.76 --> 6119.74] And worship -[6119.74 --> 6120.66] says that we -[6120.66 --> 6121.10] will hear -[6121.10 --> 6122.06] these truths -[6122.06 --> 6123.24] of God -[6123.24 --> 6123.88] and we -[6123.88 --> 6124.78] will say -[6124.78 --> 6125.82] amen. -[6126.28 --> 6126.98] Let's pray -[6126.98 --> 6127.34] together. -[6132.72 --> 6133.44] Amen -[6133.44 --> 6135.08] and amen. -[6135.08 --> 6137.20] God you -[6137.20 --> 6138.10] are good. -[6138.22 --> 6138.72] Who you -[6138.72 --> 6140.00] are is -[6140.00 --> 6140.74] amazing -[6140.74 --> 6142.14] to us -[6142.14 --> 6142.46] and so -[6142.46 --> 6143.44] we exalt -[6143.44 --> 6145.06] your name. -[6146.94 --> 6147.42] Who you -[6147.42 --> 6147.88] are -[6147.88 --> 6149.36] well known -[6149.36 --> 6150.00] to us -[6150.00 --> 6151.90] in necessary -[6151.90 --> 6152.58] and small -[6152.58 --> 6152.96] measure -[6152.96 --> 6153.98] is ultimately -[6153.98 --> 6155.02] unfathomable -[6155.02 --> 6155.60] and so -[6155.60 --> 6155.96] we -[6155.96 --> 6156.86] worship -[6156.86 --> 6157.62] you. -[6159.48 --> 6160.40] Who you -[6160.40 --> 6161.44] are invites -[6161.44 --> 6162.54] our doubts -[6162.54 --> 6163.58] calls for -[6163.58 --> 6164.96] our questions -[6164.96 --> 6165.88] and we -[6165.88 --> 6166.78] shape our -[6166.78 --> 6167.20] worship -[6167.20 --> 6167.84] through -[6167.84 --> 6168.56] them -[6168.56 --> 6169.28] seeking -[6169.28 --> 6170.26] you. -[6174.02 --> 6174.76] And who -[6174.76 --> 6175.20] you are -[6175.20 --> 6175.70] requires -[6175.70 --> 6176.32] our -[6176.32 --> 6176.92] submission -[6176.92 --> 6178.10] to you. -[6178.72 --> 6179.16] And so -[6179.16 --> 6179.64] we submit -[6179.64 --> 6180.14] our hearts -[6180.14 --> 6180.72] this morning -[6180.72 --> 6182.24] asking that -[6182.24 --> 6182.48] you would -[6182.48 --> 6183.00] hear our -[6183.00 --> 6183.34] prayers -[6183.34 --> 6183.60] that you -[6183.60 --> 6183.88] would hear -[6183.88 --> 6184.42] the cry -[6184.42 --> 6184.84] of our -[6184.84 --> 6185.14] souls -[6185.14 --> 6185.44] that you -[6185.44 --> 6185.90] would hear -[6185.90 --> 6186.86] our worship -[6186.86 --> 6187.76] from lament -[6187.76 --> 6188.84] and question -[6188.84 --> 6189.90] to praise -[6189.90 --> 6190.78] and thanksgiving -[6190.78 --> 6191.06] that you -[6191.06 --> 6191.38] would hear -[6191.38 --> 6191.80] it all. -[6192.54 --> 6193.50] And that -[6193.50 --> 6193.92] in this -[6193.92 --> 6194.32] time -[6194.32 --> 6194.82] we would -[6194.82 --> 6195.58] see most -[6195.58 --> 6196.00] clearly -[6196.00 --> 6196.40] what it -[6196.40 --> 6196.78] means to -[6196.78 --> 6197.22] be fully -[6197.22 --> 6197.64] human -[6197.64 --> 6198.80] fully alive -[6198.80 --> 6199.18] as we -[6199.18 --> 6199.80] look to -[6199.80 --> 6200.14] our -[6200.14 --> 6200.54] Lord -[6200.54 --> 6200.92] Jesus -[6200.92 --> 6201.42] Christ. -[6201.94 --> 6202.46] In his -[6202.46 --> 6202.92] name we -[6202.92 --> 6203.20] pray. -[6203.98 --> 6204.42] Amen. -[6211.42 --> 6212.20] Let's all -[6212.20 --> 6212.92] stand and -[6212.92 --> 6213.82] join together -[6213.82 --> 6214.10] in our -[6214.10 --> 6214.34] voices. -[6222.54 --> 6242.00] who else -[6242.00 --> 6243.08] commands all -[6243.08 --> 6244.02] the hosts -[6244.02 --> 6245.18] of heaven -[6245.18 --> 6247.30] who else -[6247.30 --> 6248.04] could make -[6248.04 --> 6248.84] everything -[6248.84 --> 6250.54] round down -[6250.54 --> 6252.64] who else -[6252.64 --> 6252.90] who -[6252.90 --> 6253.40] whispers -[6253.40 --> 6254.00] and -[6254.00 --> 6254.68] darkness -[6254.68 --> 6255.74] jumbled -[6255.74 --> 6258.26] only a -[6258.26 --> 6259.00] holy -[6259.00 --> 6260.92] God -[6260.92 --> 6268.96] come and -[6268.96 --> 6269.34] need -[6269.34 --> 6270.76] minute -[6270.76 --> 6274.46] thy -[6274.46 --> 6274.92] ån -[6274.92 --> 6281.92] majesty rules with justice only a holy God -[6281.92 --> 6293.10] come and behold him the one and the only -[6293.10 --> 6301.10] cry of sing holy forever a holy God -[6301.10 --> 6305.90] come and worship the holy God -[6305.90 --> 6327.70] now the glory consumes like fire -[6327.70 --> 6332.50] what other power can raise my debt -[6332.50 --> 6338.50] what other name in the kingdom we bear -[6338.50 --> 6343.50] holy and holy God -[6343.50 --> 6352.50] come and behold him the one and the only -[6352.50 --> 6361.30] cry of sing holy forever a holy God -[6361.30 --> 6365.30] come and worship the holy God -[6365.30 --> 6373.30] come and behold him the one and the only -[6373.30 --> 6381.30] cry of sing holy forever a holy God -[6381.30 --> 6386.10] come and worship the holy God -[6386.10 --> 6396.90] who else could rescue me from my feet -[6396.90 --> 6404.90] who else could offer his only son -[6404.90 --> 6409.70] who else could rescue me from my feet -[6409.70 --> 6415.70] who else could offer his only son -[6415.70 --> 6419.70] who else could rise me to call him father -[6419.70 --> 6424.50] come and behold him the one and the only -[6424.50 --> 6430.50] cry of sing holy forever a holy God -[6430.50 --> 6438.50] come and behold him the one and the only -[6438.50 --> 6442.50] cry of sing holy forever a holy God -[6442.50 --> 6453.30] come and worship the holy God -[6453.30 --> 6459.30] come and behold him the one and the only -[6459.30 --> 6465.30] cry of sing holy forever a holy God -[6465.30 --> 6471.60] Holy God, come and worship the Holy God. -[6479.60 --> 6488.38] Before our final song and before we receive God's blessing, please go with a couple invitations. -[6488.38 --> 6497.40] First of all, if you would like to have prayer or be prayed over or with, there will be someone who comes up to the front here after service. -[6497.52 --> 6499.60] They will have a name tag on with a yellow square. -[6499.96 --> 6502.82] They would love to meet you and pray with you there. -[6503.40 --> 6508.52] As well, go with an invitation to stick around following our worship for a time of fellowship together. -[6508.68 --> 6513.74] There should be some refreshments available, although the last time I said that I was proved wrong. -[6513.74 --> 6516.48] So whatever happens back there is all grace. -[6516.48 --> 6524.34] And please do stick around, take opportunity to congratulate Dave and Sheila as well. -[6524.66 --> 6530.24] And then the last invitation, remember we are gathering again to continue our worship. -[6530.90 --> 6535.72] To worship our good God tonight at 6 p.m. for worship through the decades. -[6535.88 --> 6540.50] And so join us as we continue singing praises to our God together. -[6541.22 --> 6542.96] Receive the blessing of God. -[6542.96 --> 6546.38] God, go before you to lead you. -[6546.94 --> 6548.90] God, go behind you to protect you. -[6549.24 --> 6551.30] God, go beneath you to support you. -[6551.64 --> 6553.96] God, go beside you to befriend you. -[6554.70 --> 6556.46] Do not be afraid. -[6556.92 --> 6558.82] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[6558.98 --> 6565.28] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[6565.28 --> 6566.84] Amen. -[6566.84 --> 6567.04] Amen. -[6567.04 --> 6567.08] Amen. -[6572.96 --> 6573.76] Amen. -[6573.76 --> 6574.04] Amen. -[6581.82 --> 6582.06] Amen. -[6582.28 --> 6582.42] Amen. -[6582.92 --> 6585.60] Amen. -[6585.60 --> 6587.68] See you next week. -[6587.68 --> 6591.72] Am Soxtashi. -[6591.74 --> 6596.04] Amen. -[6596.14 --> 6597.36] Amen. -[6597.36 --> 6600.46] We'll gather the nations before you. -[6601.04 --> 6607.36] And the eyes of all men will be fixed on the land as who was crucified. -[6608.88 --> 6616.08] With wisdom and mercy and justice you'll reign at your Father's side. -[6616.08 --> 6623.60] And the angels will our tail of the land. -[6623.60 --> 6629.72] Who was saved for the world's rolling crown. -[6631.66 --> 6638.88] And the earth will reply, who shall win? -[6639.36 --> 6644.00] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all kings. -[6644.00 --> 6655.50] There's a shield in our hand and a sword at our side. -[6655.72 --> 6659.34] There's a fire in our spirits that cannot be denied. -[6659.34 --> 6663.40] As the Father has told us for thee to have high. -[6663.64 --> 6666.66] For the nations who gathered before you. -[6666.66 --> 6673.90] And the ears of all men be to hear of the Lamb who was crucified. -[6675.12 --> 6682.32] Who descended to heaven, who was raised up to him at his Father's side. -[6682.32 --> 6688.78] And the angels of God, hail the Lamb. -[6690.78 --> 6696.12] Who was saved for the world's rolling crown. -[6698.12 --> 6703.78] And the earth will reply, who shall win? -[6703.78 --> 6710.10] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all kings. -[6710.24 --> 6714.84] And the angels of God, hail the Lamb. -[6714.84 --> 6723.84] Who was saved for the world's rolling crown. -[6723.84 --> 6731.24] And the earth will reply, who shall win. -[6731.24 --> 6737.70] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all kings. -[6737.70 --> 6742.70] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all kings. -[6742.70 --> 6749.72] And the Lord of all kings. -[6749.94 --> 6750.40] And the Lord of all kings. -[6750.58 --> 6750.86] Who hang on the hand, who shall win. -[6750.86 --> 6752.86] Amen. -[6780.86 --> 6782.86] Amen. -[6810.86 --> 6812.86] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, January 5, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, January 5, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 351af0b3d208458f8ab24a8616c48092dd1a1b9f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, January 5, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,81 +0,0 @@ -• Welcome and introduction by Pastor Chris -• Community announcements: - + Youth Coffee at Hubert's House after worship - + HCBC and Heidelberg Catechism Reading Group starting back up next Sunday with soup and buns - + Small group leaders training night on January 21st -• Call to worship from Psalm 90, verses 1 and 2 -• Worship song -• Invocation of God as eternal, everlasting, and invisible -• Gratitude for the love and peace of Christ -• Reflection on Christ's sacrifice and resurrection -• Personal confession and prayer for forgiveness -• Thanksgiving and praise for life's blessings -• Prayer for guidance and cleansing in Jesus' name -• Expression of love and gratitude to God -• Discussion of a song about God's goodness and faithfulness -• Introduction by Pearl, deacon at Langley Emanuel, announcing offerings for the 2025 budget and life recovery charity -• Explanation of life recovery's mission to support women overcoming substance abuse through a safe home and structured programs in a Christian community -• Scripture reading from Hebrews on doing good and sharing with others -• Announcement of a slide presentation highlighting church family highlights from 2024 -• Call for generous giving and thank-yous for donations -• Reflection song about going back to church, dependence on faith, and belonging -• Desire for spiritual refuge and comfort -• Longing to return to a place of faith and love (church) -• Praise and adoration for God's greatness and love -• Recognition of God's immeasurable qualities compared to human understanding -• Reflection on the inadequacy of human words to express devotion -• Acknowledgment of God's supremacy over humanity -• Discussion about the speaker's physical resemblance to someone, specifically Hank and his sister Peggy -• Transition to children's worship time and discussion of who Jesus is like -• Prayers for the church family and new year, led by an elder Paul -• Faithfulness and gratitude towards God -• Prayers for healing, comfort, and peace for individuals and families -• Requests for God's protection and guidance for the church community -• Reflection on waiting and delayed gratification as a spiritual discipline -• Introduction to a new series based on 1st and 2nd Thessalonians -• The Thessalonian church's hope for Jesus' return was a central part of their faith -• This hope gave them courage, shaped their priorities, and motivated their actions -• Paul's letters to the Thessalonians explore how this hope should transform everyday life -• Christians are often criticized for being apathetic towards the world due to a misconception about their belief in Jesus' return -• In reality, faith in Jesus' resurrection and future return empowers believers to care about the world and its people -• The city of Thessalonica was a major seaport in ancient Macedonia with a diverse population, including Jews and Greeks. -• Paul's preaching in the synagogue for three weeks had a significant impact, converting some Jews and many God-fearing Greeks and prominent women. -• A group of Jews caused trouble, charging believers with saying there is a king other than Caesar, leading to Paul and Silas leaving Thessalonica. -• Timothy was sent back to Thessalonica to check on the believers, and his encouraging report from Corinth led to the writing of 1st Thessalonians. -• 2nd Thessalonians was written in response to worsening persecution and hardship for the church. -• Both letters emphasize the importance of staying strong and enduring through faith in Jesus Christ's return. -• Paul uses the hope of Christ's return as a means of grace to sustain believers in the present. -• The importance of following God's way and persevering in the narrow path -• The concept of identity in Christ and how it differs from modern self-discovery -• Jesus' approach to transforming individuals, rather than helping them become their best selves -• The idea that our identities are defined by our relationship with God, not through individualism or self-discovery -• The offense of the gospel and its potential to challenge cultural assumptions about identity and self -• The question of whether one's identity is in themselves or in Christ -• The significance of greetings and addresses in letters as a way of defining relationships and identities. -• The definition of "church" and its significance in identity -• Paul's greetings in his letters as a representation of relationships -• Identity as the bride of Christ and being set apart for God's purposes -• Church as an all-inclusive, plural community and body -• Belonging to one another and the local church -• The expression of the Catholic Church in local churches -• Being Christian requires belonging to a local church -• Connection to a church marks connection to God through Jesus -• The gift of God is grace alone, and it's the truth of the gospel that Jesus Christ, God himself, came into the world to live the life we should have lived and died for our sins. -• The result of grace is peace, and living in peace is made alive in us by more grace being manifested in the hope of Christ's return. -• The gospel transforms people and cities, and those who gather as the church are sent out to transform others through their message of hope in Jesus. -• Waiting for Jesus fuels our mission, and our waiting is not idle, but we are commissioned to share this message with others. -• This message alone has the power to transform the world. -• We go into this week and year knowing that God goes with us, with his church, and with the prayers of the saints. -• Worship and praise of God -• Charity and giving -• The Gospel and redemption -• Praise to God's name and character -• Singing the song of ages and worship forever -• Angels crying "Holy" and creation praising God -• Forgiveness and redemption through Christ -• Repetition of the word "holy" and other phrases -• Mention of "forever" and "true" -• Reference to a person or entity named "aman" -• Repetitive use of the number "4" or "25" -• Use of the words "harbor", "cover", and "amen" -• Repeated expression of gratitude ("Thank you") \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, January 5, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, January 5, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c6c62392c462eeda18b56043aa781d734aa9745f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, January 5, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1152 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 1.00] Amen. -[30.00 --> 32.00] Amen. -[60.00 --> 62.00] Amen. -[90.00 --> 92.00] Amen. -[120.00 --> 122.00] Amen. -[150.00 --> 152.00] Amen. -[180.00 --> 182.00] Amen. -[210.00 --> 212.00] Amen. -[240.00 --> 242.00] Amen. -[270.00 --> 272.00] Amen. -[300.00 --> 302.00] Amen. -[312.00 --> 317.26] Happy New Year to you if I didn't catch you earlier and on the way in. -[317.40 --> 321.84] Welcome to worship here at Langley Emanuel Church. -[321.84 --> 326.48] If you are a guest with us or if you are forgetful, my name is Chris. -[326.48 --> 335.14] I'm one of the pastors here at Emanuel and it's my privilege to lead in our shared worship together this morning. -[335.14 --> 339.76] Before we begin our worship, we have a couple community announcements to make. -[340.88 --> 348.34] And so, first of all, after worship today, Youth Coffee is happening at the Hubert's House. -[348.52 --> 353.32] And so if you're part of our youth program or you're interested in being a part of our youth program, -[353.72 --> 356.46] join them for Youth Coffee at the Hubert's House. -[356.52 --> 360.74] If you have questions about that, Pastor Kevin will happily answer that. -[360.74 --> 363.00] Or Hubert's, Jackie, wave. -[364.08 --> 365.98] That, yeah, not that Hubert's. -[367.10 --> 371.14] I was trying to figure out a way to differentiate which Hubert's it was. -[371.68 --> 374.06] And then I thought, we'll go with the young Hubert's. -[374.74 --> 377.48] So go to the young-ish Hubert's House. -[378.40 --> 380.70] Yeah, but don't show up at Noah's House. That's fair. -[380.70 --> 384.44] If you have questions, talk to either one. They'll get you there. -[385.30 --> 393.44] Next Sunday, we are having our HCBC and Heidelberg Catechism Reading Group. -[393.94 --> 395.44] That's starting back up. -[395.80 --> 401.66] But we're trying for the month of January to do that after morning service. -[401.66 --> 404.00] And so there's going to be soup and buns. -[404.40 --> 412.82] And we're going to hang out and do that after morning service, both for the youth HCBC and for the adult education group. -[413.26 --> 417.82] So that will happen next Sunday after service with soup and buns. -[418.06 --> 419.36] So mark your calendars. -[419.80 --> 420.52] Be ready for that. -[420.52 --> 430.96] And then many of you probably have already received the invitation to the small group leaders training night that we're running. -[431.00 --> 439.18] But that's an invitation for all of us, even if you're not part of one of our official run small group or Bible study groups here. -[439.18 --> 445.20] If you would like to join us for a small group training night, please just talk to me after the service. -[445.30 --> 448.00] I'll take that down or you can email me through the week. -[448.30 --> 451.78] But that's going to happen on January 21st at 730. -[452.16 --> 453.34] So you can mark your calendar for that. -[453.46 --> 454.96] Love to see you out there. -[456.26 --> 457.28] That's it for announcements. -[457.28 --> 467.94] And so let's stand together as you are able and where you are and we can be ushered into the presence of God, welcomed by him and receive his greeting. -[470.88 --> 472.78] Receive the greeting of our God. -[474.12 --> 484.90] Grace to you and peace from God, our father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, son and our savior through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[486.06 --> 486.46] Amen. -[487.28 --> 490.88] I invite you to welcome those around you into worship as well this morning. -[492.10 --> 492.50] Peace. -[492.50 --> 492.54] Peace. -[492.54 --> 492.58] Peace. -[492.58 --> 492.62] Peace. -[492.62 --> 492.66] Peace. -[492.66 --> 492.68] Peace. -[492.68 --> 492.72] Peace. -[492.72 --> 492.78] Peace. -[492.78 --> 493.72] Peace. -[493.72 --> 502.30] Peace. -[506.88 --> 509.14] Peace. -[512.98 --> 513.04] Peace. -[513.18 --> 513.58] Peace. -[513.58 --> 516.02] Peace. -[516.02 --> 517.96] Peace. -[517.96 --> 526.32] Good morning. -[527.26 --> 531.94] As we begin our worship service, our first worship service of this new year, -[532.38 --> 536.22] our call to worship comes from Psalm 90, verses 1 and 2. -[537.22 --> 543.76] I chose Psalm 90 because I was familiar with it as it was always read in its entirety -[543.76 --> 550.48] by my grandfather on New Year's Day as we all got together as a family after church. -[551.40 --> 552.88] This is our call to worship. -[554.00 --> 556.86] The words of Psalm 90, verses 1 and 2. -[557.54 --> 562.40] From everlasting to everlasting, a prayer of Moses, the man of God. -[562.98 --> 566.52] Lord, you have been my dwelling place in all generations. -[567.02 --> 569.04] Before the mountains were brought forth, -[569.04 --> 572.28] wherever you had formed the earth and the world, -[572.48 --> 576.24] from everlasting to everlasting, you are God. -[576.24 --> 593.62] From everlasting to everlasting, you are God. -[593.62 --> 607.44] From everlasting to everlasting, you are God. -[607.44 --> 614.90] From holiness, you stand secure through culture, shift in sin. -[615.58 --> 621.68] I'm changed by all the amenities of man. -[621.68 --> 629.06] And as the nations rise and fall, your sovereignty remains. -[629.06 --> 642.66] You are, you are, you are, you are the one true love. -[642.66 --> 655.04] To everlasting, you are God. -[655.04 --> 669.04] To everlasting, you are God. -[669.04 --> 671.42] You are, you are, you are. -[671.42 --> 676.22] Faithfulness, your love extends through times of turbulence. -[676.22 --> 682.92] And God to those who call upon your name. -[682.92 --> 690.80] And every generation joins in songs of grateful grace. -[690.80 --> 704.38] You are, you are, you are the one to come. -[704.38 --> 716.70] From everlasting, to everlasting, you are God. -[716.70 --> 730.70] From everlasting, to everlasting, you are God. -[730.70 --> 743.52] Eternal, before our Lord, invisible God. -[743.52 --> 757.66] Eternal, before our Lord, invisible God. -[757.66 --> 772.10] From everlasting, to everlasting, you are God. -[772.10 --> 786.10] From everlasting, to everlasting, you are God. -[787.66 --> 789.66] Amen. -[817.66 --> 819.66] Amen. -[819.66 --> 821.66] Amen. -[821.66 --> 823.66] Amen. -[823.66 --> 824.66] Amen. -[824.66 --> 826.66] Amen. -[826.66 --> 837.52] What heights of love, what depths of peace, when fears are still and striding cease. -[837.88 --> 848.58] My comforter, my all in all, here in the love of Christ I stand. -[848.58 --> 861.02] In Christ alone, who took on flesh, fullness of God in helpless day. -[861.02 --> 871.32] There's gift of love and righteousness, stored by the ones he gave to save. -[871.32 --> 881.60] Till on that cross as Jesus died, the wrath of God was satisfied. -[881.60 --> 892.36] For every sin on him was laid, here in the death of Christ I live. -[892.36 --> 904.36] Through him the ground his body lay, light of the world by darkness slain. -[904.36 --> 914.36] Then bursting forth in glorious day, up from the grave he rose again. -[914.36 --> 925.46] And as he stands in victory, sin's curse has lost its grip on me. -[925.80 --> 936.36] For I am his and he is mine, part of the precious blood of Christ. -[936.36 --> 943.36] No will to life, no fear in death. -[944.36 --> 948.36] This is the power of Christ in me. -[948.36 --> 958.52] From life's first cry to final breath, Jesus commends my destiny. -[958.52 --> 969.64] No power of hell, no scheme of man, can ever walk me from his hand. -[969.64 --> 979.52] Till he returns or calls me home, here in the power of Christ I stand. -[979.52 --> 1005.52] May we sing. -[1005.52 --> 1013.52] Thank you. -[1013.52 --> 1015.52] Please pray with me. -[1015.52 --> 1022.52] Eternal, everlasting God, who can make all things new, we humbly come before you this -[1022.52 --> 1025.52] first Sunday of a new year. -[1025.52 --> 1030.52] Where life has been good to us this past year, we give you our thanks and praise. -[1030.52 --> 1036.52] Where we have pleased you in our thoughts, words and deeds as your children, may our reward -[1036.52 --> 1038.52] be your smiling face. -[1038.52 --> 1044.52] Where we have sinned and fallen short of your good pleasure, we pray for your forgiveness -[1044.52 --> 1048.52] and pray that you would free us from our sinful past. -[1048.52 --> 1055.52] Lord, we take a few minutes now in time of personal confession and reflection. -[1055.52 --> 1065.52] Lord, we take a few minutes. -[1065.52 --> 1066.52] Thank you. -[1066.52 --> 1068.52] Lord, we take a few minutes. -[1068.52 --> 1070.52] Lord, we take a few minutes. -[1070.52 --> 1073.52] Lord, we take a few minutes. -[1073.52 --> 1079.98] Holy and merciful God, -[1080.46 --> 1083.66] we pray and we thank you that you cleanse us by your mercy, -[1084.58 --> 1085.92] guide us in your truth, -[1086.44 --> 1089.96] and you fill us with your love and lead us forward in this new year -[1089.96 --> 1093.78] with hope and trust through the grace of Jesus Christ our Lord. -[1093.78 --> 1094.66] Amen. -[1097.18 --> 1100.04] Please stand again as we continue singing. -[1103.52 --> 1105.52] Amen. -[1129.52 --> 1132.16] I love you, Lord. -[1133.52 --> 1137.52] For your mercy never fails me. -[1139.06 --> 1144.52] All my days have been held in your hands. -[1145.72 --> 1148.52] From the moment that I wake up, -[1149.40 --> 1151.52] until I lay my head, -[1151.52 --> 1157.52] I will sing of the goodness of God. -[1157.52 --> 1165.52] All my life you have been faithful. -[1168.52 --> 1174.52] All my life you have been so, so good. -[1174.52 --> 1179.52] And every breath that I am able, -[1179.52 --> 1185.52] I will sing of the goodness of God. -[1185.52 --> 1189.52] I love your voice. -[1189.52 --> 1194.52] You have led me through the fire, -[1194.52 --> 1196.52] into our best life. -[1196.52 --> 1201.52] You are close like no other. -[1201.52 --> 1205.72] I've known you as a father -[1205.72 --> 1209.92] I've known you as a friend -[1209.92 --> 1214.66] I have lived with your goodness -[1214.66 --> 1223.22] All my life you have been faithful -[1223.22 --> 1231.50] All my life you have been so, so good -[1231.50 --> 1237.16] With every breath that I am able -[1237.16 --> 1243.86] I will sing in my goodness, O God -[1243.86 --> 1249.42] Your goodness is running after -[1249.42 --> 1252.28] It's running after me -[1252.28 --> 1256.32] Your goodness is running after -[1256.32 --> 1259.40] It's running after me -[1259.40 --> 1263.28] My life laid down, surrender now -[1263.28 --> 1266.06] To give you everything -[1266.06 --> 1270.12] Your goodness is running after -[1270.12 --> 1273.40] It's running after me -[1273.40 --> 1277.12] Your goodness is running after -[1277.12 --> 1280.06] It's running after me -[1280.06 --> 1284.12] Your goodness is running after -[1284.12 --> 1287.18] It's running after me -[1287.18 --> 1290.96] My life laid down, surrender now -[1290.96 --> 1293.62] To give you everything -[1293.62 --> 1297.62] Your goodness is running after -[1297.62 --> 1301.28] It's running after me -[1301.28 --> 1307.94] All my life you have been faithful -[1307.94 --> 1318.10] All my life you have been so, so good -[1318.10 --> 1322.76] With every breath that I am able -[1322.76 --> 1329.76] I will sing of the goodness, O God -[1329.76 --> 1336.42] I will sing of the goodness, O God -[1336.42 --> 1345.08] All my life you have been so, so good -[1345.08 --> 1349.08] I will sing of the goodness, O God -[1349.08 --> 1379.06] All my life you have been so, so good -[1379.08 --> 1384.46] A peace like a river -[1384.46 --> 1388.90] A peace like a river, a dead and death my way -[1388.90 --> 1396.86] When sorrows like sea billows roll -[1396.86 --> 1405.98] Whenever my heart, thou hast taught me to stay -[1405.98 --> 1414.48] It is well, it is well with my soul -[1414.48 --> 1423.92] It is well, it is well with my soul -[1423.92 --> 1434.86] It is well, it is well with my soul -[1434.86 --> 1442.24] Though Satan should buffet -[1442.24 --> 1447.04] Though trials should come -[1447.04 --> 1454.68] Let his blessed assurance control -[1454.68 --> 1463.06] That Christ has regarded my health, my health, my health, my health, my health -[1463.06 --> 1473.06] And hasten, and hasten, his own blood for my soul -[1473.06 --> 1482.44] It is well, it is well with my soul -[1482.44 --> 1493.44] It is well, it is well with my soul -[1493.44 --> 1506.02] I sing, O the bliss of this glorious song -[1506.02 --> 1506.06] My sin, O the bliss of this glorious song -[1506.06 --> 1513.76] My sin, not in part, but the whole -[1513.76 --> 1514.76] It is well with my soul -[1514.76 --> 1519.14] It is well with my soul -[1519.14 --> 1523.52] And I bear it no more -[1523.52 --> 1529.14] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord -[1529.14 --> 1533.14] Praise the Lord, O my soul -[1533.14 --> 1540.14] It is well with my soul -[1540.14 --> 1544.14] It is well with my soul -[1544.14 --> 1554.14] It is well, it is well with my soul -[1554.14 --> 1560.14] O Lord, haste the day -[1560.14 --> 1565.94] When my faith shall be signed -[1565.94 --> 1570.96] The clouds be rolled back -[1570.96 --> 1573.14] As a scroll -[1573.14 --> 1579.28] The trump shall resound -[1579.28 --> 1584.52] And the Lord shall descend -[1584.52 --> 1595.32] Even so, it is well with my soul -[1595.32 --> 1596.52] Even so, it is well with my soul -[1596.52 --> 1603.36] It is well, it is well with my soul -[1603.36 --> 1615.56] With my soul, it is well, it is well with my soul. -[1633.36 --> 1641.58] Good morning and happy new year to all of you. -[1642.14 --> 1645.54] My name is Pearl. I'm a deacon here at Langley Emanuel. -[1646.46 --> 1650.64] And it's time to continue our worship by giving of our offerings. -[1651.46 --> 1660.14] And today's offerings are for the budget, brand new budget of 2025, and also for life recovery. -[1660.14 --> 1663.40] Life recovery stands for living in faith every day. -[1664.20 --> 1670.12] And it is a Christian faith-based charity that is not-for-profit. -[1670.34 --> 1676.58] And it is established to support women to overcome their addictions to substance abuse. -[1677.24 --> 1683.92] So they have a mission to provide a safe home and structured programs in a Christian community -[1683.92 --> 1691.06] so that women who desire can have a lifestyle change that's free from alcohol and drug abuse. -[1693.26 --> 1694.88] In Hebrews we read, -[1695.44 --> 1701.16] Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. -[1701.16 --> 1706.68] While we're giving of our offerings, today there will also be a slide presentation -[1706.68 --> 1711.34] of the highlights of this church family from 2024. -[1711.84 --> 1714.72] So do give generously even as God has been generous with you. -[1714.72 --> 1744.70] Thank you. -[1744.72 --> 1744.78] Thank you. -[1745.28 --> 1756.48] Thank you. -[1756.86 --> 1761.58] Thank you. -[1765.76 --> 1769.04] Thank you. -[1769.04 --> 1770.54] Thank you. -[1771.02 --> 1772.90] Thank you. -[1772.90 --> 1773.08] Thank you. -[1774.12 --> 1774.38] Thank you. -[1774.38 --> 1786.58] Take me back to the place that feels like home -[1786.58 --> 1789.44] To the people I can depend on -[1789.44 --> 1792.64] To the faith that's in my bones -[1792.64 --> 1797.38] Take me back to a preacher and a verse -[1797.38 --> 1800.06] Where they've seen me at my worst -[1800.06 --> 1802.74] To the love I had at first -[1802.74 --> 1806.82] Oh, I wanna go to church -[1806.82 --> 1813.78] Tried to walk on my own but I wound up lost -[1813.78 --> 1819.26] Now I'm making my way to the foot of the cross -[1819.26 --> 1823.42] It's not a trophy for the winners -[1823.42 --> 1826.44] It's a shelter for the sinners -[1826.44 --> 1829.12] And it's right where I belong -[1829.12 --> 1834.48] Take me back to the place that feels like home -[1834.48 --> 1837.44] To the people I can depend on -[1837.44 --> 1840.28] To the faith that's in my bones -[1840.28 --> 1845.30] Take me back to a preacher and a verse -[1845.30 --> 1848.02] Where they've seen me at my worst -[1848.02 --> 1850.66] To the love I had at first -[1850.66 --> 1854.74] I wanna go to church -[1854.74 --> 1859.86] I wanna go to church -[1859.86 --> 1867.66] Oh, more than an obligation -[1867.66 --> 1870.58] It's not our foundation -[1870.58 --> 1872.58] The family of God -[1872.58 --> 1873.58] The family of God -[1873.58 --> 1874.58] I know it's hard -[1874.58 --> 1875.58] I know it's hard -[1875.58 --> 1878.38] But we need to turn -[1878.38 --> 1879.70] This is the same -[1879.70 --> 1881.62] It's not our fault -[1881.62 --> 1882.62] To the people that I'm making my way to the Lord -[1882.62 --> 1883.62] I know it's hard -[1883.62 --> 1884.62] I know it's hard -[1884.62 --> 1885.94] To the people I can depend on -[1885.94 --> 1887.94] To the people I can depend on -[1887.94 --> 1889.94] To the people I can depend on -[1889.94 --> 1891.94] To the faith that's in my bones -[1891.94 --> 1895.94] Take me back to a preacher and a verse -[1895.94 --> 1897.94] Where they've seen me at my worst -[1897.94 --> 1899.94] Where they've seen me at my worst -[1899.94 --> 1902.94] To the love I had at first -[1902.94 --> 1905.94] Oh, I wanna go to church -[1905.94 --> 1908.94] Yeah, I wanna go to church -[1908.94 --> 1912.94] Take me back to the church -[1912.94 --> 1916.94] Take me back to the church -[1916.94 --> 1922.94] Oh, I wanna go to church -[1922.94 --> 1926.94] Take me back to the church -[1926.94 --> 1931.94] I wanna go to church -[1931.94 --> 1935.94] Take me back to church -[1935.94 --> 1937.94] Oh, I wanna go to church -[1937.94 --> 1941.94] Oh, I wanna go to church -[1941.94 --> 1943.94] Oh, I wanna go to church -[1943.94 --> 1944.94] Oh, I wanna go to church -[1944.94 --> 1947.94] More than all we ask -[1947.94 --> 1950.94] Than all we seek -[1950.94 --> 1954.94] All our hopes and dreams -[1954.94 --> 1959.94] You are immeasurably more -[1959.94 --> 1962.94] Than we can know -[1962.94 --> 1965.94] Than we can pray -[1965.94 --> 1969.94] All our words can say -[1969.94 --> 1974.94] You are immeasurably more -[1974.94 --> 1978.94] There's nothing greater than your love -[1978.94 --> 1981.94] You're more than we can imagine -[1981.94 --> 1986.94] There's nothing sweeter on this earth -[1986.94 --> 1990.94] You're more than we can imagine -[1990.94 --> 1993.94] Our hearts respond to who you are -[1993.94 --> 1996.94] It's you, oh Lord, that we adore -[1996.94 --> 2011.94] You are more than we can imagine -[2011.94 --> 2013.94] in your love -[2013.94 --> 2021.94] than we are -[2021.94 --> 2023.94] Both pro Manuel -[2023.94 --> 2024.94] like I will -[2024.94 --> 2026.94] more than you -[2026.94 --> 2027.88] than you are -[2027.88 --> 2028.94] into all our hearts -[2028.94 --> 2029.94] the truth is -[2030.94 --> 2032.94] Slowly willую -[2032.94 --> 2036.24] Stronger than the brave -[2036.24 --> 2040.42] You are immeasurably more -[2040.42 --> 2043.30] I can't help but think -[2043.30 --> 2047.16] I can't help but praise -[2047.16 --> 2050.34] My heart cannot contain -[2050.34 --> 2055.08] You are immeasurably more -[2055.08 --> 2060.98] There's nothing greater than your love -[2060.98 --> 2064.02] You're more than we can imagine -[2064.02 --> 2068.16] There's nothing sweeter on this earth -[2068.16 --> 2071.32] You're more than we can imagine -[2071.32 --> 2075.42] Our hearts respond to who you are -[2075.42 --> 2078.88] But you are more than we adore -[2078.88 --> 2081.88] You are more, you are more -[2081.88 --> 2085.72] You are more than we can imagine -[2085.72 --> 2089.16] You are more, you are more -[2089.16 --> 2093.20] You are more than we can imagine -[2093.20 --> 2108.42] You are more than we can imagine -[2108.42 --> 2113.42] You are more than me -[2113.42 --> 2115.98] You are more than me -[2115.98 --> 2116.32] You are more than me -[2116.32 --> 2117.54] You are more than me -[2117.54 --> 2117.76] You are more than me -[2117.76 --> 2118.04] You are more than me -[2118.04 --> 2119.46] You are more than me -[2119.46 --> 2120.06] You are more than me -[2120.06 --> 2120.54] You are more than me -[2120.54 --> 2121.00] You are more than me -[2121.00 --> 2121.56] You are more than me -[2121.56 --> 2121.88] You are more than you -[2121.88 --> 2122.02] You are more than me -[2122.02 --> 2122.44] You are -[2122.44 --> 2122.60] You are more than me -[2122.60 --> 2122.96] You are more than me -[2122.96 --> 2123.60] You are more than me -[2123.60 --> 2123.86] You are more than me -[2123.86 --> 2124.42] You are more than me -[2124.42 --> 2125.72] You are more than me -[2125.72 --> 2126.30] You are more, you are more than me -[2126.30 --> 2126.70] You are more than me -[2126.70 --> 2127.34] You are more than me -[2127.34 --> 2128.14] You are number one -[2128.14 --> 2128.46] I am no one -[2128.46 --> 2129.18] You are tomorrow -[2129.18 --> 2130.16] You are more than me -[2130.16 --> 2130.70] You are more than me -[2130.70 --> 2131.52] You are more than me -[2131.52 --> 2132.20] You are more than me -[2132.20 --> 2132.22] You are more than me -[2132.22 --> 2133.22] You are fine -[2133.22 --> 2145.30] No eye has seen, no ear has heard -[2145.30 --> 2150.88] What is coming, what is coming -[2150.88 --> 2159.68] Never ends in joy, never fail in love -[2159.68 --> 2165.92] You are coming, you are coming -[2165.92 --> 2174.16] No eye has seen, no ear has heard -[2174.16 --> 2179.90] What is coming, what is coming -[2179.90 --> 2188.40] Never ends in joy, never fail in love -[2188.40 --> 2194.64] You are coming, you are coming -[2194.64 --> 2208.64] You are coming, you are coming -[2208.64 --> 2216.14] There's nothing greater than your love -[2216.14 --> 2219.06] The more than we can imagine -[2219.06 --> 2223.36] There's nothing sweeter on this life -[2223.36 --> 2226.48] The more than we can imagine -[2226.48 --> 2230.60] Our hearts respond to who you are -[2230.60 --> 2233.98] But you are the one that we adore -[2233.98 --> 2237.06] You are more, you are more -[2237.06 --> 2240.66] You're more than we can imagine -[2240.66 --> 2244.28] You are more, you are more -[2244.28 --> 2247.90] You are more than we can imagine -[2247.90 --> 2251.54] You are more, you are more -[2251.54 --> 2255.78] You're more than we can imagine -[2255.78 --> 2275.24] You are more than we can imagine -[2275.24 --> 2277.24] is -[2277.24 --> 2279.24] mine -[2279.24 --> 2281.56] find us -[2281.56 --> 2283.40] together Lord -[2283.40 --> 2285.24] find us together -[2285.92 --> 2286.92] with -[2286.92 --> 2289.48] force that cannot -[2289.48 --> 2291.24] be broken -[2292.06 --> 2295.08] find us -[2295.08 --> 2296.86] together Lord -[2296.86 --> 2299.34] find us together -[2299.34 --> 2301.24] Lord find us -[2301.88 --> 2302.82] together -[2302.82 --> 2305.22] in love -[2305.24 --> 2309.24] applause -[2309.24 --> 2310.24] applause -[2310.24 --> 2311.24] applause -[2312.92 --> 2313.24] applause -[2313.24 --> 2315.24] applause -[2315.24 --> 2317.24] applause -[2317.24 --> 2319.30] Alright kids you can come on -[2319.30 --> 2321.24] down now join me up here at the -[2321.24 --> 2323.40] front for children's worship time -[2323.40 --> 2339.40] good morning everybody -[2339.40 --> 2341.40] good morning everybody -[2341.40 --> 2343.40] good morning -[2343.40 --> 2345.40] good morning -[2345.40 --> 2355.40] good to see you all I think you guys need to wake up Hank he's also very tired this morning -[2355.40 --> 2357.40] shh -[2357.40 --> 2359.40] can you wake him up by saying -[2359.40 --> 2361.40] morning Hank -[2361.40 --> 2363.40] morning Hank -[2363.40 --> 2365.40] morning -[2365.40 --> 2367.40] morning kids -[2367.40 --> 2369.40] morning Kevin -[2369.40 --> 2371.40] morning Hank how are you guys all doing today -[2371.40 --> 2373.40] and how are you Hank -[2373.40 --> 2375.40] I'm good too -[2375.40 --> 2377.40] Hank I have a question for you -[2377.40 --> 2379.40] who do you have anybody in this world that you look like -[2379.40 --> 2381.40] mm-hmm -[2381.40 --> 2383.40] who do you look like -[2383.40 --> 2385.40] my sister -[2385.40 --> 2387.40] who's your sister -[2387.40 --> 2389.40] Peggy the pooch -[2389.40 --> 2391.40] oh yeah we met her a long time ago that was really difficult for me -[2391.40 --> 2393.40] yeah -[2393.40 --> 2395.40] where is Peggy right now -[2395.40 --> 2397.40] she's hiking in Peru -[2397.40 --> 2399.40] oh okay that's where she's been -[2399.40 --> 2401.40] yeah she's really busy -[2401.40 --> 2403.40] but you do look quite alike don't you -[2403.40 --> 2406.40] mm-hmm people even say we act the same -[2406.40 --> 2408.40] oh that's interesting -[2408.40 --> 2411.40] does anybody look like you or do you look like anybody -[2411.40 --> 2415.40] I mean maybe do you think I look like someone -[2415.40 --> 2416.40] mm-hmm -[2416.40 --> 2418.40] who do you think I look like -[2418.40 --> 2420.40] Ursula -[2420.40 --> 2422.40] who's Ursula -[2422.40 --> 2425.40] the one from Little Mermaid -[2425.40 --> 2427.40] Hank that is not very nice -[2427.40 --> 2433.40] well we're not going to talk about what we look like or who we look like in church today -[2433.40 --> 2439.40] but we are going to talk about who Jesus is like in children's worship time today -[2439.40 --> 2441.40] and so that's what we're going to talk about in the back -[2441.40 --> 2443.40] does that sound like a good plan mm-hmm -[2443.40 --> 2446.40] all right so we're gonna pray and then we're going to do the kids blessing -[2446.40 --> 2450.40] and then we're gonna go back to the children's worship time classes okay you ready let's pray -[2450.40 --> 2467.40] dear God thank you so much for this day thank you for this first Sunday in January where we can celebrate New Year's together as a church family and we can learn more about you be with the kids now as we go to children's worship time and the grown ups as they stay back here and we learn more about Jesus we pray this in your name amen -[2467.40 --> 2470.40] amen all right stand up stand up stand up -[2470.40 --> 2476.40] we're gonna say on the count of three we're gonna say the Lord be with you together are you ready one two three -[2476.40 --> 2479.40] the Lord be with you -[2479.40 --> 2483.40] and also with you -[2483.40 --> 2485.40] thank you -[2485.40 --> 2487.40] thank you -[2487.40 --> 2493.40] thank you -[2493.40 --> 2497.40] thank you -[2497.40 --> 2499.40] thank you -[2499.40 --> 2501.40] thank you -[2501.40 --> 2504.40] thank you -[2504.40 --> 2518.40] my name is Paul and I'm an elder here and it's my privilege to pray with us before the -[2518.40 --> 2522.40] for this this new year and for our church family -[2522.40 --> 2527.40] great video wasn't that the slide presentation -[2527.40 --> 2529.40] shows -[2529.40 --> 2533.40] I think great community that we have here -[2533.40 --> 2539.40] let's come to our father in prayer -[2539.40 --> 2545.40] holy father in heaven -[2545.40 --> 2547.40] holy father in heaven -[2547.40 --> 2552.40] your name is exalted above the heavens -[2552.40 --> 2558.40] we lift your name overall because you created all things -[2558.40 --> 2564.40] you love us all of your days and you keep us in your hands -[2564.40 --> 2569.40] from the moment that we wake up until we lay down our heads -[2569.40 --> 2571.40] we sing of your goodness -[2571.40 --> 2573.40] you are faithful -[2575.40 --> 2580.40] we thank you for your spirit and grace that brings us all here together in this place -[2581.40 --> 2584.40] we thank you for all your goodness this past year -[2586.40 --> 2590.40] we each have our hopes and expectations for the year that is ahead of us -[2590.40 --> 2594.40] but you alone know what it holds for us -[2594.40 --> 2601.40] and only you can give us the strength and the wisdom that we need to meet its challenges -[2601.40 --> 2606.40] help us to humbly put our lives into your hands -[2606.40 --> 2610.40] and to trust you and seek your will this coming year -[2610.40 --> 2615.40] in the midst of all of life's uncertainties -[2615.40 --> 2620.40] assure us of the certainty of your unchanging love -[2620.40 --> 2626.40] in the midst of life's temptations and the pull of our stubborn self will -[2627.40 --> 2629.40] help us not to lose our way -[2629.40 --> 2632.40] but to have the courage to do what is right -[2632.40 --> 2634.40] and regardless of the cost -[2634.40 --> 2638.40] oh lord guide our way -[2639.40 --> 2644.40] we pray for Elise Waggoner's dad Doug Kendon -[2644.40 --> 2647.40] we pray that you will bring healing -[2647.40 --> 2651.40] we pray that you will give wisdom and direction for his care -[2652.40 --> 2658.40] we pray that you will bring comfort and peace to Doug and the rest of the family as they navigate through this time -[2659.40 --> 2663.40] we also pray for Tanya -[2664.40 --> 2667.40] Amanda Hovland's sister and Klaas Tesemacher's daughter -[2667.40 --> 2674.40] we ask you lord for comfort peace healing and hope for Tanya's future -[2674.40 --> 2679.40] give her and the whole family comfort and strength as they need -[2679.40 --> 2682.40] that they need at this time -[2683.40 --> 2687.40] Lord we ask that for those who have recently gone through cancer treatments -[2687.40 --> 2690.40] that you will give complete healing and hope for the future -[2690.40 --> 2699.40] Lord we ask that your hand will be over this world wherever there is war and strife -[2699.40 --> 2706.40] we pray that you will comfort and protect your children that are persecuted for your name's sake -[2706.40 --> 2712.40] we ask for your protection for this church family -[2712.40 --> 2718.40] we pray that you will continue to bless the ongoing ministries of this church -[2718.40 --> 2722.40] sustain us in the present and guide us into the future -[2723.40 --> 2726.40] as we hear from your word -[2726.40 --> 2732.40] and your will for us this morning through the word preached by Pastor Chris -[2733.40 --> 2735.40] bind us together in Christ -[2736.40 --> 2738.40] keep us focused on your purpose -[2739.40 --> 2741.40] and fill us with the Holy Spirit -[2742.40 --> 2745.40] we pray that we will grow in love and truth -[2746.40 --> 2748.40] righteousness, peace, hope and faith -[2749.40 --> 2753.40] help us to grow in Jesus that we might become more and more like him -[2753.40 --> 2755.40] in character and soul -[2756.40 --> 2759.40] fulfill your will and purposes among us -[2760.40 --> 2761.40] advance your kingdom through us -[2762.40 --> 2763.40] so that your holy name is glorified -[2764.40 --> 2768.40] we pray all these things in your holy name -[2769.40 --> 2770.40] Amen -[2783.40 --> 2799.40] this is the time of year where many people -[2800.40 --> 2802.40] have spent some time looking back on the year that was -[2803.40 --> 2807.40] but more than that are looking forward to the year that will be -[2808.40 --> 2809.40] the year that's coming ahead -[2809.40 --> 2814.40] and even as we think about everything that happened in this past year -[2815.40 --> 2816.40] whether joyous or tumultuous -[2817.40 --> 2819.40] we look forward with a little bit of hope -[2820.40 --> 2822.40] to whatever this next year might be -[2823.40 --> 2828.40] and in that as we are hoping and thinking about what is to come -[2829.40 --> 2836.40] I suspect and imagine that we can't help but think of the kinds of things -[2836.40 --> 2839.40] we might be waiting for -[2840.40 --> 2842.40] and then maybe it's something simple in your life -[2843.40 --> 2844.40] something you are waiting for -[2844.40 --> 2846.40] maybe it's a package on the doorstep -[2847.40 --> 2851.40] although with Amazon these days that happens at least at my house like every other day -[2852.40 --> 2854.40] so there's not a lot of anticipation because it comes so quickly -[2855.40 --> 2859.40] maybe you're hoping in the middle of the day for the end of a long work day -[2859.40 --> 2862.40] or maybe you're hoping for something deeper -[2863.40 --> 2865.40] maybe you're hoping for a relationship to heal -[2866.40 --> 2868.40] or for a body to heal -[2869.40 --> 2871.40] maybe you're waiting and hoping for a career breakthrough -[2872.40 --> 2878.40] maybe you are coming into this new year waiting for an answer to prayer -[2878.40 --> 2883.40] as we wait -[2884.40 --> 2887.40] and as we have these hopes -[2888.40 --> 2891.40] I want to encourage us -[2892.40 --> 2894.40] this morning and for the next little while -[2895.40 --> 2898.40] to zoom up from that experience -[2899.40 --> 2901.40] as I want to ask the question -[2901.40 --> 2910.40] how does what you're waiting for shape the way you live right now -[2911.40 --> 2913.40] now again we've already mentioned Amazon -[2914.40 --> 2918.40] but in our culture things are pretty immediate -[2919.40 --> 2920.40] right? -[2921.40 --> 2923.40] most of us don't have to wait long for things -[2924.40 --> 2925.40] and so the discipline of waiting -[2926.40 --> 2928.40] the discipline of delayed gratification -[2928.40 --> 2931.40] isn't something that we have to wrestle with often anymore -[2932.40 --> 2935.40] but that's what we're being invited to right now -[2936.40 --> 2939.40] we're going to jump into a new series here at Emmanuel -[2940.40 --> 2941.40] for a little while -[2942.40 --> 2944.40] in the two letters to the Thessalonians -[2945.40 --> 2947.40] so to the church at Thessalonica -[2948.40 --> 2951.40] for the Thessalonian believers in the church there -[2952.40 --> 2953.40] the answer was clear -[2954.40 --> 2956.40] the answer of what they were waiting for is clear -[2956.40 --> 2958.40] they're waiting for Jesus -[2959.40 --> 2960.40] and not just figuratively -[2961.40 --> 2962.40] but literally -[2963.40 --> 2964.40] they're waiting for his return -[2965.40 --> 2966.40] right? just as he promised he would -[2967.40 --> 2968.40] their hope isn't wishful thinking -[2969.40 --> 2974.40] it was a certainty that shaped everything about their lives -[2975.40 --> 2977.40] their courage under persecution -[2978.40 --> 2979.40] shaped their priorities -[2980.40 --> 2981.40] as they waited it shaped their purposes -[2982.40 --> 2983.40] as they did life together -[2983.40 --> 2988.40] and so we are left with the same question -[2989.40 --> 2991.40] what are we waiting for? -[2992.40 --> 2994.40] and if we're waiting for Jesus -[2995.40 --> 2996.40] does that change how we live today -[2997.40 --> 3000.40] or is that just something that kind of exists in the background -[3001.40 --> 3002.40] in the language of the pastor on Sunday -[3003.40 --> 3006.40] but doesn't really impact my day to day being and operating in the world -[3007.40 --> 3009.40] as we dig into these letters to the Thessalonians -[3010.40 --> 3029.40] Paul wants us to see God is inviting us to consider how the hope of Jesus return is meant to fuel our faith and transform our lives and give us strength for whatever we're waiting for in the here and now -[3029.40 --> 3034.40] so what are you waiting for? -[3035.40 --> 3036.40] and how is it changing you? -[3037.40 --> 3047.40] we're going to start this morning with a really long text for our reflection in 1 Thessalonians 1 verse 1 -[3047.40 --> 3049.40] that's it -[3050.40 --> 3051.40] it's going to be on the screen behind me -[3052.40 --> 3056.40] I encourage you as always open your Bible -[3057.40 --> 3058.40] we'll have it in front of you -[3059.40 --> 3060.40] we will refer back and around variously -[3061.40 --> 3064.40] but we'll start here in this first verse -[3064.40 --> 3068.40] Paul, Silas, and Timothy -[3069.40 --> 3072.40] to the church of the Thessalonians -[3073.40 --> 3075.40] in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ -[3076.40 --> 3077.40] grace and peace to you -[3078.40 --> 3080.40] this is the word of the Lord -[3083.40 --> 3084.40] now as we begin -[3085.40 --> 3088.40] just a little bit of background on these two letters -[3088.40 --> 3092.40] the two letters and the city of Thessalonica -[3093.40 --> 3095.40] or Thessaloniki in modern day Greek -[3096.40 --> 3100.40] these two letters are written only a few months apart -[3101.40 --> 3106.40] and many scholars believe these are actually the first letters written by Paul -[3107.40 --> 3111.40] although some people argue that that's that privilege belongs to Galatians -[3111.40 --> 3115.40] what this means is that these letters are written -[3116.40 --> 3117.40] sometime -[3118.40 --> 3125.40] 17 to 20 years after Jesus' resurrection and ascension -[3126.40 --> 3132.40] which I at least think is cool and makes them worth reading -[3133.40 --> 3137.40] because they give us a glimpse into the incredible scope of the spread of the gospel -[3137.40 --> 3142.40] a glimpse into the speed of its spread throughout the Roman Empire -[3143.40 --> 3148.40] and they give us a glimpse of its immediate social impact as the church -[3149.40 --> 3151.40] from its off is being persecuted -[3152.40 --> 3159.40] now what's also neat I think is that the content of these two short letters coming as quickly as they do -[3160.40 --> 3165.40] to us teach us something about the content of Paul's missionary preaching -[3165.40 --> 3169.40] while he was moving around the area of the Mediterranean Sea there -[3170.40 --> 3177.40] these two letters are filled with references to Jesus' second coming -[3178.40 --> 3185.40] in fact there's at least one reference every chapter spanning both letters to the second coming of Jesus -[3186.40 --> 3192.40] and then that question is asked how does that hope that belief that reality -[3192.40 --> 3195.40] transform everyday life -[3195.40 --> 3205.40] and how does that reality that hope transforming everyday life challenge the cultural assumptions of the world -[3206.40 --> 3211.40] and the calling of people in the world to something other to something holy -[3211.40 --> 3215.40] in short -[3216.40 --> 3223.40] right faith in Jesus doesn't make sense without his resurrection and without his future return -[3224.40 --> 3227.40] right his resurrection and his future return -[3228.40 --> 3232.40] transforms everything about our living faith right now -[3232.40 --> 3233.40] now -[3233.40 --> 3234.40] now -[3234.40 --> 3235.40] now -[3235.40 --> 3236.40] sometimes -[3236.40 --> 3237.40] and maybe you have heard this before -[3238.40 --> 3241.40] but Christians can be criticized -[3242.40 --> 3257.40] saying that we don't care about the world because there's this really wrong and bad idea that Christians believe that somehow the world is just going to be burned up and we're all going to be taken away out of it that our goal is to escape and to leave this world behind -[3257.40 --> 3258.40] now -[3258.40 --> 3261.40] now that may be true for some people and some Christians -[3261.40 --> 3262.40] it's not true of the Bible -[3263.40 --> 3264.40] though -[3265.40 --> 3276.40] in fact as Ligon Duncan says that Paul's point in Thessalonians is that our eternal confidence does not rob us of the capacity to care about the world and people in it -[3276.40 --> 3279.40] instead it empowers us to care -[3279.40 --> 3280.40] right -[3280.40 --> 3291.40] it's precisely because of the resurrection of Jesus and his future return and the restoration of all things that we care about this world about the kingdom of God being manifest within it -[3292.40 --> 3294.40] now -[3294.40 --> 3295.40] Paul -[3296.40 --> 3297.40] visits -[3297.40 --> 3298.40] Macedonia -[3298.40 --> 3299.40] which is modern day Greece -[3300.40 --> 3301.40] sometime around -[3301.40 --> 3302.40] A.D. 49 -[3302.40 --> 3303.40] or 50 -[3303.40 --> 3306.40] in and around there -[3306.40 --> 3307.40] now -[3307.40 --> 3308.40] Thessalonica -[3308.40 --> 3313.40] is the capital and the largest city of Macedonia -[3313.40 --> 3314.40] I think we have a map -[3315.40 --> 3316.40] that we can throw up -[3317.40 --> 3318.40] it's a busy seaport -[3319.40 --> 3323.40] and the Via Ignatia ran right through it -[3324.40 --> 3327.40] now the Via Ignatia is a road that's -[3328.40 --> 3331.40] spans starting in Byzantium -[3331.40 --> 3339.40] and runs along the north of Macedonia to a city called Dracaeum which is modern day Duras in Albania -[3340.40 --> 3348.40] which from there if you can see the map is just a short ride across to the Italian peninsula and then on up to Rome -[3348.40 --> 3350.40] the Via Ignatia -[3350.40 --> 3355.40] the Via Ignatia connects Rome to the eastern half of the empire -[3355.40 --> 3361.40] any land trade that happens or road routes run through Thessalonica -[3362.40 --> 3373.40] it's a commonly understood historical fact that the Rome was able to spread its empire and its influence and rule so dramatically and drastically because of the roads that the Rome was able to spread its empire and its influence and rule so -[3373.40 --> 3374.40] the Via Ignatia -[3374.40 --> 3376.40] the Via Ignatia -[3376.40 --> 3377.40] the Via Ignatia -[3378.40 --> 3383.40] the city of Thessalonica has about 200,000 inhabitants at this time -[3384.40 --> 3386.40] which is actually quite huge -[3387.40 --> 3391.40] considering that the global population at this time is estimated to be about 200 million -[3391.40 --> 3400.40] so 0.1% of the world lived in Thessalonica -[3400.40 --> 3406.40] now Paul when he visits stays for only three weeks -[3406.40 --> 3410.40] and his time is marked by his preaching in the synagogue -[3410.40 --> 3416.40] now that Thessalonica has a synagogue is another indication that it's a large and diverse city -[3416.40 --> 3420.40] you can read about this in Acts 17 -[3421.40 --> 3423.40] the effect of Paul's preaching there -[3423.40 --> 3425.40] he would go on the Sabbath to the synagogue and preach -[3425.40 --> 3429.40] and the effect we can read is that some of the Jews were persuaded -[3430.40 --> 3434.40] along with a large number of God-fearing Greeks and quite a few prominent women -[3435.40 --> 3440.40] now in due course as regularly happens in Paul's missionary journeys -[3440.40 --> 3447.40] a group of Jews begin to gather up and create trouble -[3447.40 --> 3453.40] they take some of the believers who had converted because of Paul's preaching and message -[3453.40 --> 3455.40] and take them in front of the city officials -[3456.40 --> 3462.40] and they charge them with saying that there is a king other than Caesar whose name is Jesus -[3463.40 --> 3467.40] now this becomes another repeated and regular pattern throughout the early church -[3467.40 --> 3472.40] and when that happens Paul and Silas slip away at night -[3472.40 --> 3475.40] and they go to the next city into Berea -[3476.40 --> 3479.40] from there they go to Athens and then on to Corinth -[3480.40 --> 3483.40] Timothy stays behind in Berea -[3484.40 --> 3490.40] and Paul sends word to Timothy to check on the believers in Thessalonica -[3490.40 --> 3493.40] and so Timothy goes from Berea back to Thessalonica -[3493.40 --> 3495.40] and so Timothy goes from Berea back to Thessalonica -[3496.40 --> 3499.40] visits with them and then joins Paul in Corinth -[3500.40 --> 3508.40] and it's Timothy's encouraging report to Paul in Corinth that precipitates this letter -[3509.40 --> 3511.40] he's encouraged by their continuing of their belief -[3512.40 --> 3517.40] and he rejoices in what God is doing among them even in the face of persecution -[3517.40 --> 3527.40] now Paul's second letter what we call second Thessalonians is occasioned by news from the group of people -[3528.40 --> 3532.40] who likely delivered the first letter to the church in Thessalonica -[3533.40 --> 3538.40] when they returned Paul hears from them how persecution has worsened -[3539.40 --> 3541.40] how their life has become harder and more challenging -[3541.40 --> 3544.40] and so he wants to encourage them all the more -[3544.40 --> 3548.40] and through both of these letters -[3549.40 --> 3550.40] here's what we see -[3551.40 --> 3554.40] right? Paul encourages the church to stay strong -[3555.40 --> 3556.40] and endure -[3557.40 --> 3561.40] and you can see this already if your Bibles are open in chapter 1 verse 9 and 10 -[3562.40 --> 3563.40] right? -[3563.40 --> 3565.40] to endure by turning to God from idols -[3565.40 --> 3567.40] to serve the living and true God -[3568.40 --> 3570.40] and to wait for his son from heaven -[3571.40 --> 3572.40] right? -[3573.40 --> 3574.40] throughout this -[3575.40 --> 3576.40] these two letters -[3577.40 --> 3578.40] Paul uses the hope of Christ's return -[3579.40 --> 3582.40] as a means of grace to sustain us in the present -[3583.40 --> 3587.40] right? faith in Jesus doesn't make sense without his resurrection -[3587.40 --> 3588.40] and without his future return -[3588.40 --> 3590.40] and his resurrection and future return -[3590.40 --> 3591.40] and his resurrection and future return -[3592.40 --> 3594.40] transform everything about life right now -[3595.40 --> 3596.40] for holy obedience -[3597.40 --> 3600.40] in short -[3601.40 --> 3605.40] this is about what it means to be a believer of Jesus -[3606.40 --> 3608.40] a follower of the way -[3609.40 --> 3614.40] early Christians were called followers of the way -[3614.40 --> 3615.40] the way -[3615.40 --> 3617.40] the way is a shorthand -[3618.40 --> 3620.40] to refer to Jesus himself -[3621.40 --> 3624.40] who said I am the way the truth and the life -[3625.40 --> 3631.40] it's also a way of referring to the kind of life that Jesus calls his disciples to live -[3632.40 --> 3638.40] so Matthew 7 we read for the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction -[3638.40 --> 3648.40] and those who enter by it are many for the gate is nor narrow and the way is hard that leads to life and those who find it are few -[3649.40 --> 3656.40] followers of Jesus are those who follow the way on the way to eternal life -[3657.40 --> 3663.40] and the letters to the Thessalonians are meant to be an encouragement for when that narrow way is hard -[3663.40 --> 3668.40] a reminder of who you are and what you signed up for -[3669.40 --> 3671.40] and that's where we begin -[3672.40 --> 3681.40] the idea in these this first verse that the gospel of Jesus can transform a people and a city -[3682.40 --> 3686.40] this is about your identity in Christ -[3686.40 --> 3695.40] and I mean I need you to bring your best selves to our listening here right because when I say identity -[3696.40 --> 3701.40] I don't mean identity in the way that we use the word in our modern setting -[3702.40 --> 3705.40] right where our identities are simultaneously -[3706.40 --> 3709.40] something that we have to look within to figure out -[3709.40 --> 3714.40] and they prove to be fickle and never fixed so we can never actually be sure if we figured out -[3715.40 --> 3721.40] right in our modern world identity is something that you have to find within you and then be true to -[3722.40 --> 3724.40] something that you get to discern -[3725.40 --> 3733.40] that particular cultural understanding of an absolutely autonomous individualistic sense of self -[3733.40 --> 3749.40] that is foreign to the culture of the ancient world and it is foreign to an identity granted from outside a transcendent identity given to you as Christians we would say by grace through faith in Christ -[3750.40 --> 3754.40] and because it is foreign -[3754.40 --> 3756.40] it is alien -[3757.40 --> 3759.40] and because it is alien -[3760.40 --> 3766.40] it will be impossible or at least it will be really hard for most of us even us here who have been in church our whole lives -[3767.40 --> 3769.40] most of us it will be hard to immediately understand -[3770.40 --> 3775.40] right in fact because the identity we are talking about is alien -[3776.40 --> 3779.40] it is probably going to be offensive to our understandings -[3780.40 --> 3782.40] offensive to our modern sensibilities -[3782.40 --> 3785.40] right that is just not how the world works -[3786.40 --> 3787.40] you might say -[3788.40 --> 3790.40] to which Jesus will gently respond -[3791.40 --> 3793.40] sensitively and pastorally -[3794.40 --> 3795.40] your world isn't working -[3796.40 --> 3797.40] how about we try my way -[3798.40 --> 3800.40] look -[3801.40 --> 3803.40] put it bluntly -[3804.40 --> 3807.40] and this is where we might start to offend people -[3808.40 --> 3811.40] Jesus isn't interested -[3812.40 --> 3814.40] in a be true to yourself -[3814.40 --> 3815.40] way of being -[3816.40 --> 3817.40] he's interested -[3818.40 --> 3819.40] in you being true to him -[3819.40 --> 3823.40] Jesus isn't interested in -[3824.40 --> 3826.40] in looking inside for self discovery -[3827.40 --> 3829.40] he's interested that you discover yourself -[3830.40 --> 3831.40] in him -[3832.40 --> 3833.40] right -[3833.40 --> 3834.40] Jesus doesn't want to help you -[3835.40 --> 3836.40] he wants to heal you -[3837.40 --> 3838.40] right -[3838.40 --> 3840.40] he wants to set you free from the lie of the devil -[3840.40 --> 3841.40] and the world -[3841.40 --> 3842.40] that says you are on your own -[3843.40 --> 3844.40] that it's up to you -[3845.40 --> 3846.40] right Jesus wants to transform you -[3847.40 --> 3848.40] to raise you to new life -[3849.40 --> 3850.40] to take you from darkness into his light -[3851.40 --> 3853.40] this isn't about becoming the best version of yourself -[3854.40 --> 3857.40] this is about your being transformed into the image of Jesus Christ -[3858.40 --> 3859.40] and so yeah -[3860.40 --> 3863.40] you might get offended by this -[3864.40 --> 3867.40] the gospel is an offense and it's a stumbling block -[3868.40 --> 3869.40] man -[3870.40 --> 3872.40] if you are offended -[3873.40 --> 3875.40] that's exactly the right time to ask -[3876.40 --> 3879.40] am I looking at the world my way -[3880.40 --> 3883.40] or is Jesus asking me to look at the world his way this morning -[3883.40 --> 3889.40] am I trying to define myself or will I let Jesus define me -[3890.40 --> 3894.40] is my identity in me or is it in him -[3895.40 --> 3897.40] that's the question of questions -[3898.40 --> 3901.40] and it's time to start doubting our cultural assumptions -[3902.40 --> 3904.40] and trust the way the truth and the life -[3905.40 --> 3910.40] so who does Jesus say you are -[3910.40 --> 3915.40] to the church of the Thessalonians -[3916.40 --> 3917.40] in God the Father -[3918.40 --> 3920.40] and the Lord Jesus Christ -[3921.40 --> 3923.40] grace and peace to you -[3925.40 --> 3926.40] now most of the time -[3927.40 --> 3928.40] in our world today -[3929.40 --> 3931.40] greetings in letters are sort of throwaway signs -[3932.40 --> 3933.40] now some of you hear that and go what's a letter -[3934.40 --> 3938.40] right but if you've ever had to write a reference for someone -[3938.40 --> 3940.40] right to whom it may concern -[3941.40 --> 3943.40] dear sir or madam -[3944.40 --> 3946.40] right and if they're not throwaway lines -[3947.40 --> 3948.40] they're still not very insignificant -[3949.40 --> 3951.40] or not very significant right maybe you'll get a letter that says -[3952.40 --> 3954.40] Mr. De Winter more likely I'll start an email that says -[3955.40 --> 3956.40] hey man -[3957.40 --> 3960.40] or maybe you'll find a note that says to the person who parked over the line -[3961.40 --> 3962.40] I didn't break your mirror -[3962.40 --> 3966.40] but sometimes -[3967.40 --> 3968.40] sometimes -[3969.40 --> 3971.40] greetings define a relationship -[3972.40 --> 3974.40] they speak to an identity -[3975.40 --> 3977.40] to the love of my life -[3978.40 --> 3980.40] that's a way to start a note -[3981.40 --> 3984.40] to my bride on our wedding day -[3985.40 --> 3990.40] to my best friend and the only person I've ever trusted -[3990.40 --> 3994.40] those are greetings that define a relationship -[3995.40 --> 4001.40] now Paul's greetings in his letters at the beginning of his letters define a relationship -[4002.40 --> 4005.40] a relationship that Paul has to this church as its pastor -[4006.40 --> 4011.40] and a relationship that this church has to God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ -[4011.40 --> 4016.40] because of the gospel that tells us something about who we are -[4017.40 --> 4020.40] from the off right to the church -[4021.40 --> 4028.40] he says that is to the gathered ones to the called out ones to those who are set apart for eternal life -[4029.40 --> 4030.40] to those disciples of the way -[4030.40 --> 4031.40] the way -[4032.40 --> 4035.40] now if you've been around church long enough -[4036.40 --> 4037.40] that word church loses its punch -[4038.40 --> 4042.40] but this is about your identity as the bride of Christ -[4043.40 --> 4045.40] this is about being set apart for the purposes of God -[4046.40 --> 4048.40] this is about being made holy in his name -[4049.40 --> 4052.40] church isn't primarily something we do or some place that we go -[4053.40 --> 4054.40] church is who you are -[4054.40 --> 4058.40] and because you can't hear it in English -[4059.40 --> 4061.40] right all of those use are plural -[4062.40 --> 4065.40] right the church is an all y'all kind of community -[4066.40 --> 4070.40] right it's a body it's a family and I don't say that as cliche -[4071.40 --> 4072.40] because I know that's how it sounds -[4073.40 --> 4078.40] right this is the Bible's understanding of all y'all's reality together -[4078.40 --> 4089.40] you are not your own you were bought with a price you belong body and soul in life and a death to your faithful savior Jesus Christ and you belong to one another -[4090.40 --> 4101.40] and this is Romans 12 verse 5 in Christ we though many form one body and each member belongs to all the others -[4101.40 --> 4107.40] to the church of the Thessalonians -[4108.40 --> 4114.40] now there is a sense here right in which the whole church belongs to the whole church -[4115.40 --> 4120.40] that is every disciple of Jesus every follower of the way belongs to each other -[4121.40 --> 4124.40] we are all one great cloud of witnesses -[4124.40 --> 4134.40] and that's what we mean when we for instance in the Apostles Creed confess and profess that I believe a holy Catholic Church -[4135.40 --> 4139.40] the word Catholic means literally from the whole right or belonging to the whole -[4140.40 --> 4153.40] we are all all the church of all times in all places to confess Christ raised from the dead and to believe that he is God's son is to be part of the Catholic Church -[4154.40 --> 4159.40] but that Catholic Church has particular locations -[4160.40 --> 4163.40] to the church of the Thessalonians -[4164.40 --> 4167.40] right of Thessalonica -[4168.40 --> 4171.40] here it's to the church of Langley -[4172.40 --> 4176.40] Emmanuel the local church is the expression of the Catholic Church -[4177.40 --> 4182.40] the local church grounds our experience of the Catholic Church -[4182.40 --> 4198.40] or to put it another way that the spiritual reality of belonging to the whole church the body of Christ is expressed in the physical reality of being embodied geographically belonging to a local church -[4198.40 --> 4209.40] now sometimes I will hear people say that they can be a Christian without belonging to a local church -[4210.40 --> 4216.40] and I want to tell you 99 times out of 100 that's an oxymoronic statement -[4217.40 --> 4218.40] maybe just moronic -[4219.40 --> 4222.40] right to be Christian is to belong to the head -[4222.40 --> 4223.40] you belong to the head -[4223.40 --> 4225.40] and if you say you belong to the head -[4226.40 --> 4227.40] you're part of the body -[4228.40 --> 4229.40] and if you're part of the body -[4230.40 --> 4232.40] you should belong to a local church -[4233.40 --> 4235.40] look -[4236.40 --> 4237.40] see why this matters -[4238.40 --> 4239.40] right? -[4240.40 --> 4241.40] your connection to a church -[4242.40 --> 4243.40] marks your connection to the church -[4244.40 --> 4249.40] which is the mark of your belonging to God in Jesus -[4249.40 --> 4250.40] to the church of the Thessalonians -[4252.40 --> 4255.40] in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ -[4256.40 --> 4259.40] just as these believers are in Thessalonica -[4260.40 --> 4266.40] so are they in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ -[4267.40 --> 4275.40] just as you are here in Langley Emmanuel so you are in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ by grace -[4275.40 --> 4284.40] the spiritual reality is made tangible in the physical reality the spiritual truth is made real in the physical expression -[4285.40 --> 4288.40] and this too is about your identity -[4289.40 --> 4296.40] your personal relationship connects to a personal God who connects to other persons -[4297.40 --> 4298.40] you can't do this alone -[4299.40 --> 4302.40] but thanks be to God you're not alone -[4302.40 --> 4305.40] to the church -[4306.40 --> 4308.40] in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ -[4309.40 --> 4311.40] grace and peace to you -[4312.40 --> 4319.40] so in Greek here it actually says grace to you and peace -[4320.40 --> 4324.40] Paul places the to you after grace not after the word peace -[4324.40 --> 4329.40] not after the word peace and in Greek word order can indicate priority -[4330.40 --> 4333.40] grace precedes peace results -[4334.40 --> 4338.40] to be a follower of the way is to have received grace -[4339.40 --> 4341.40] we are defined by grace by God's grace -[4342.40 --> 4347.40] it is grace that makes us in God and in the Lord Jesus Christ -[4347.40 --> 4354.40] maybe you know the old hymn grace grace grace God's grace grace that erases all my sin -[4355.40 --> 4360.40] if you don't know that one maybe you know amazing grace how sweet the sound I once was lost but now I'm -[4361.40 --> 4365.40] found right it is by grace you have been saved through faith -[4365.40 --> 4369.40] this is not of yourselves it is the gift of God grace alone -[4370.40 --> 4371.40] sola gratia -[4372.40 --> 4375.40] the truth of the gospel -[4376.40 --> 4379.40] is that Jesus Christ God himself -[4380.40 --> 4381.40] the word -[4382.40 --> 4383.40] who took on flesh -[4384.40 --> 4392.40] came into this world and lived the life I should have lived that is he kept perfectly the demands of God and law -[4392.40 --> 4403.40] he kept perfectly the righteous requirements of what is needed in order to come into the presence of a holy perfect God -[4404.40 --> 4417.40] and he died the death that I deserve even though he was perfectly righteous he took the punishment for my sin for your sin for the sins of the world all who would believe -[4417.40 --> 4418.40] believe -[4420.40 --> 4421.40] this is the gospel -[4422.40 --> 4423.40] and grace -[4424.40 --> 4425.40] applies his merit -[4426.40 --> 4427.40] and grace -[4428.40 --> 4429.40] removes my demerit -[4430.40 --> 4434.40] right and the result of grace is peace -[4435.40 --> 4437.40] grace to you and peace -[4438.40 --> 4441.40] restored to God living in wholeness -[4442.40 --> 4443.40] that's what real peace is -[4443.40 --> 4444.40] is -[4444.40 --> 4449.40] living in peace is motivated and it is made alive in us by grace -[4450.40 --> 4465.40] and that living then is fueled by it is mobilized by more grace being manifested in the hope of Christ's return and the fulfillment of that peace in a world restored and completely renewed -[4465.40 --> 4475.40] the gospel of Jesus transforms a people and the city -[4476.40 --> 4479.40] because the people who gather in the church -[4480.40 --> 4482.40] people who gather as the church -[4483.40 --> 4488.40] the people who gather in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ -[4488.40 --> 4490.40] are sent out -[4491.40 --> 4492.40] to a city -[4493.40 --> 4497.40] you go from this place transformed in order to transform -[4498.40 --> 4513.40] you go as witnesses to and a herald of the kingdom come in your hearts by grace and the kingdom come in your lives as you live out that grace and the kingdom coming in the world around us as others are called into this relationship with God and the kingdom coming yet even more by the kingdom of God. -[4513.40 --> 4520.40] that is your message that is your message that is your hope and that changes everything about how we live right now because it changes who you are. -[4520.40 --> 4529.40] maybe for the first time in your life you know real humanity because you've met the real Jesus. -[4530.40 --> 4543.40] waiting for Jesus fuels our mission right now and and and and -[4543.40 --> 4544.78] Because you've met the real Jesus. -[4546.44 --> 4550.90] Waiting for Jesus fuels our mission right now. -[4552.26 --> 4557.58] So we wait with our eyes fixed on his return. -[4558.60 --> 4562.44] But as we will see, our waiting is not idle. -[4563.52 --> 4565.16] That is, we're not sitting still. -[4566.02 --> 4567.12] We are sent. -[4567.52 --> 4568.50] We are commissioned. -[4568.50 --> 4574.54] We are called out with this message. -[4575.62 --> 4580.66] And this message alone is what will transform the world. -[4581.92 --> 4585.34] This is your message. -[4586.46 --> 4586.72] Amen. -[4587.54 --> 4588.46] Let's pray together. -[4588.46 --> 4599.60] Lord Jesus, today you have reminded us who we are. -[4600.86 --> 4607.38] And you've done that, Lord willing, by reminding us who you are. -[4608.06 --> 4609.20] And what you have done. -[4609.44 --> 4610.46] And what you will do. -[4611.10 --> 4613.46] And, Lord God, what you are doing. -[4613.46 --> 4624.60] So as we look back, as we look around, and as we look ahead, may we fix our eyes on you. -[4625.54 --> 4629.46] May we wait for you, Lord Jesus. -[4630.24 --> 4631.54] In your name we pray. -[4632.48 --> 4632.80] Amen. -[4632.80 --> 4633.02] Amen. -[4643.46 --> 4647.94] Amen. -[4660.04 --> 4663.38] Amen. -[4663.38 --> 4664.40] Amen. -[4664.40 --> 4694.38] Thank you. -[4694.40 --> 4724.38] Thank you. -[4724.40 --> 4726.40] Thank you. -[4754.40 --> 4756.40] Thank you. -[4784.40 --> 4786.40] Thank you. -[4814.40 --> 4816.40] Thank you. -[4816.40 --> 4818.40] Thank you. -[4818.40 --> 4820.40] Thank you. -[4820.40 --> 4822.40] Thank you. -[4822.40 --> 4824.40] Thank you. -[4824.40 --> 4826.40] Thank you. -[4826.40 --> 4828.40] Thank you. -[4828.40 --> 4844.06] As you go into this week. -[4844.06 --> 4852.84] as you go into this year, know that you do not go alone. You in fact go with God as he goes with -[4852.84 --> 4857.96] you. You in fact go with his church as we go together and you go with the prayers of the -[4857.96 --> 4863.12] saints. And so if you need prayer, please, there'll be someone here after service that to meet with -[4863.12 --> 4868.46] you and to pray with you. You can find me or pastor Kevin or really anyone here would love to pray -[4868.46 --> 4876.52] with you. And we go with the blessing of God. Receive the blessing of God for the journey of faith -[4876.52 --> 4887.26] ahead. God go before you to lead you. God go behind you to protect you. God go beneath you to support -[4887.26 --> 4895.24] you. And God go beside you to befriend you. Do not be afraid. Let the blessing of God come upon you -[4895.24 --> 4903.62] today. Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Amen. -[4903.62 --> 4903.76] Amen. -[4903.76 --> 4904.58] Amen. -[4904.94 --> 4909.80] God do not be afraid, but go in peace. -[4909.80 --> 4909.92] Amen. -[4911.54 --> 4911.88] Amen. -[4911.88 --> 4912.14] Amen. -[4912.14 --> 4912.18] Amen. -[4913.18 --> 4913.34] Amen. -[4913.34 --> 4913.92] A man. -[4913.92 --> 4914.24] Amen. -[4914.42 --> 4915.92] Amen. -[4915.92 --> 4916.08] Amen. -[4916.08 --> 4916.72] Amen. -[4917.24 --> 4918.20] God teleprints, Dave. -[4918.20 --> 4919.08] Amen. -[4919.64 --> 4920.28] Amen. -[4920.28 --> 4921.22] Amen. -[4921.22 --> 4922.32] Amen. -[4922.32 --> 4923.28] Amen. -[4923.28 --> 4926.10] And the name of how we are going for charity. -[4926.10 --> 4926.26] Amen. -[4926.26 --> 4926.88] Amen. -[4926.88 --> 4930.86] HILM PTER S sistema,地, let the art of the Gospel, Gospel, wrath, and redemption, all the -[4930.86 --> 4931.66] morning, many Tahitiobia. -[4931.66 --> 4932.76] Amen. -[4932.76 --> 4932.86] Amen. -[4932.92 --> 4933.60] Amen. -[4933.60 --> 4935.60] before us -[4935.60 --> 4937.38] and all who will -[4937.38 --> 4938.64] we need -[4938.64 --> 4941.46] will sing the song of ages -[4941.46 --> 4943.44] to the end -[4943.44 --> 4948.26] Your name is the highest -[4948.26 --> 4951.50] Your name is the greatest -[4951.50 --> 4953.42] Your name -[4953.42 --> 4955.42] stands above -[4955.42 --> 4957.42] it all -[4957.42 --> 4959.82] All thrones -[4959.82 --> 4961.18] and millions -[4961.18 --> 4963.00] All powers -[4963.00 --> 4964.36] and positions -[4964.36 --> 4966.38] Your name -[4966.38 --> 4968.36] stands above -[4968.36 --> 4969.52] it all -[4969.52 --> 4972.38] and the angels cry -[4972.38 --> 4974.38] Holy -[4974.38 --> 4977.58] all creation -[4977.58 --> 4978.38] Christ -[4979.66 --> 4980.38] Holy -[4981.86 --> 4984.12] You are lifted -[4984.12 --> 4985.38] high -[4985.38 --> 4988.38] Holy -[4988.38 --> 4990.38] Holy -[4990.38 --> 4991.38] forever -[4991.38 --> 4999.76] If you've been forgiven -[4999.76 --> 5002.76] And if you've been redeemed -[5003.44 --> 5005.76] Sing the song forever -[5006.32 --> 5007.76] to the land -[5007.76 --> 5012.76] If you've been forgiven -[5012.76 --> 5014.14] And if you've been forgiven -[5014.14 --> 5016.14] And if you've been forgiven -[5016.14 --> 5019.14] Sing the song forever -[5019.14 --> 5021.14] to the land -[5021.14 --> 5025.14] Sing the song forever -[5025.14 --> 5027.14] And in heaven -[5027.14 --> 5030.14] And the angels cry -[5030.14 --> 5032.14] Holy -[5032.14 --> 5033.52] Holy -[5033.52 --> 5035.52] Holy -[5035.52 --> 5037.52] All creation -[5037.52 --> 5038.52] Christ -[5038.52 --> 5039.52] Holy -[5039.52 --> 5041.52] You are lifted -[5041.52 --> 5042.52] high -[5042.52 --> 5043.52] Holy -[5043.52 --> 5045.52] Holy -[5045.52 --> 5046.90] Holy -[5046.90 --> 5047.90] Holy -[5047.90 --> 5048.90] Holy -[5048.90 --> 5049.90] Forever -[5049.90 --> 5050.90] Holy -[5050.90 --> 5051.90] Holy -[5051.90 --> 5053.90] Holy -[5053.90 --> 5054.90] You will always be -[5054.90 --> 5055.90] Holy -[5055.90 --> 5056.90] Holy -[5056.90 --> 5058.90] Holy -[5058.90 --> 5059.90] Holy -[5059.90 --> 5073.20] You are Matt -[5073.20 --> 5074.28] Holy -[5074.28 --> 5074.46] Holy -[5074.46 --> 5076.88] People -[5077.14 --> 5077.28] Holy -[5077.28 --> 5078.96] Holy -[5078.96 --> 5081.28] Holy -[5081.28 --> 5083.50] is the highest -[5083.50 --> 5085.22] your name -[5085.22 --> 5086.74] is the greatest -[5086.74 --> 5088.64] your name -[5088.64 --> 5090.72] stands above -[5090.72 --> 5092.48] and all -[5092.48 --> 5095.28] all thrones -[5095.28 --> 5096.86] and dominions -[5096.86 --> 5098.40] all powers -[5098.40 --> 5099.56] and positions -[5099.56 --> 5101.58] your name -[5101.58 --> 5103.50] stands above -[5103.50 --> 5104.76] and all -[5104.76 --> 5107.76] as the angels cry -[5107.76 --> 5109.64] holy -[5109.64 --> 5112.40] of creation -[5112.40 --> 5113.64] Christ -[5114.36 --> 5115.64] holy -[5116.54 --> 5118.10] you are -[5118.10 --> 5118.78] lifted -[5118.78 --> 5119.64] high -[5120.80 --> 5121.64] holy -[5123.08 --> 5123.64] holy -[5125.10 --> 5125.64] forever -[5126.64 --> 5131.64] may the people -[5131.64 --> 5132.64] sing -[5133.24 --> 5135.64] holy -[5135.64 --> 5137.24] to the -[5137.24 --> 5139.64] heal of peace -[5139.64 --> 5141.24] holy -[5142.24 --> 5145.24] you will always be -[5146.06 --> 5147.24] holy -[5147.24 --> 5148.24] holy -[5148.24 --> 5151.24] forever -[5152.24 --> 5158.24] you will always be -[5159.06 --> 5161.24] holy -[5161.24 --> 5163.24] holy -[5163.24 --> 5164.24] holy -[5164.24 --> 5165.24] forever -[5165.24 --> 5166.24] holy -[5166.24 --> 5167.24] forever -[5167.24 --> 5168.24] holy -[5168.24 --> 5169.24] forever -[5169.24 --> 5170.24] true -[5170.24 --> 5172.24] holy -[5172.24 --> 5173.24] harbor -[5173.24 --> 5174.24] holy -[5174.24 --> 5175.24] holy -[5175.24 --> 5176.24] holy -[5177.24 --> 5178.24] for aman -[5178.24 --> 5179.24] 4 -[5179.66 --> 5180.24] or -[5180.56 --> 5181.24] 25 -[5181.24 --> 5183.24] ever -[5183.24 --> 5184.24] cover -[5184.24 --> 5185.24] amen -[5185.24 --> 5215.22] Thank you. -[5215.24 --> 5245.22] Thank you. -[5245.24 --> 5275.22] Thank you. -[5275.24 --> 5284.24] Thank you. -[5305.24 --> 5335.22] Thank you. -[5335.24 --> 5365.22] Thank you. -[5365.24 --> 5395.22] Thank you. -[5395.24 --> 5425.22] Thank you. -[5425.24 --> 5455.22] Thank you. -[5455.24 --> 5485.22] Thank you. -[5485.24 --> 5515.22] Thank you. -[5515.24 --> 5545.22] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, January 7, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, January 7, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index dfc3eddde146221a3ff92d5356e6335975f69472..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, January 7, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,43 +0,0 @@ -• Theme of being a prodigal -• Importance of not losing one's soul -• Longing for something or someone that feels like home -• Rejection of worldly pursuits and desires -• Desire to return to a state of innocence or simplicity (Eden) -• Feeling lost in the world, but searching for a way back -• Discussion of repetitive "thank you" statements -• Interpretation of a biblical passage (psalm or poem) describing God's power in nature -• Explanation that God is not inherent in nature, but rather controls it through his voice -• Warning against worshiping or idolizing nature as if it were God -• The voice of God is spoken in the Bible, creating and controlling -• Promises made by God are fulfilled through Jesus Christ's life, death, and resurrection -• Self-help books and voices dominate culture, offering improvement advice -• Political voices echo in hearts and online platforms, aligning with party affiliations -• Online influencers (celebrities, athletes, actors) carry significant influence, but not the most impactful on individuals -• Personal relationships and social media posts from loved ones are often the most listened to, leading to comparison and contrast -• The speaker discusses the importance of discerning between good and bad influences in various areas of life -• Self-help books and social media can be helpful, but also potentially problematic if not used wisely -• The voice of God can be drowned out by other voices, including self-help sections and social media -• A story is shared about a soccer team's experience with overbearing parents, and how the coach advised them to ignore external voices and focus on their own leader (the coach) -• Psalm 29 is referenced as a guide for acknowledging God above all other influences and distractions -• The importance of acknowledging and honoring God, despite noise and distractions, in order to hear His voice clearly. -• The importance of acknowledging God's glory and worshiping him above all things -• Recognizing the influence of various voices in daily life (Scripture, screens, social media, etc.) -• Prioritizing God's voice over other distracting voices -• Receiving peace from God through worship and faith -• Distinguishing between worldly noise and the transcendent voice of God -• The voice of God is present with his people, as seen in various biblical accounts -• The incarnation of Jesus is the central message of the gospel and the word becoming flesh and dwelling among us -• Examples from Scripture show the voice of God speaking to and through Jesus, including at baptism, transfiguration, and during a storm on a boat -• Jesus' life, death, and resurrection demonstrate the power and nature of God's voice -• The voice of God is still active today, speaking to believers through Scripture, the Holy Spirit, and other means -• Distractions and competing voices in the world -• Need to listen to Jesus' voice -• Praying for discipline and determination to cut through noise -• Listening to God's voice in everyday life -• Seeking guidance from God to discern actions and decisions -• Praising God's greatness and salvation -• Discussion of the hymn "How Great Thou Art" -• Invitation to join fellowship or coffee in the sanctuary -• Prayer and spiritual support offered by members with yellow name tags -• Reading from Numbers 6:22, the priestly blessing -• Final praise and worship of God as King of Kings \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, January 7, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, January 7, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index bf64d6706412c2899569e317bc6951069630a13e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, January 7, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,664 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 3.00] Oh, I'm the prodigal -[3.00 --> 8.00] I don't need the money -[8.00 --> 12.30] I don't want the fame -[12.30 --> 17.40] I don't want what I can't take with me -[17.40 --> 19.00] In the grave -[19.56 --> 22.24] Oh, and I don't want to lose my soul -[22.24 --> 25.50] Chasing out the things that don't lead me -[25.50 --> 32.10] Straight to you and I'm lost in a feeling -[32.10 --> 39.34] That I came from this world -[39.34 --> 42.60] Going back to Eden -[42.60 --> 44.76] Ain't gonna be easy -[44.76 --> 48.40] But it leads me straight to you -[48.40 --> 50.50] And I'm running home -[50.50 --> 53.50] Like the prodigal -[55.50 --> 58.56] I don't want to lose my soul -[58.56 --> 61.70] Chasing out the things that don't lead me -[61.70 --> 63.64] Straight to you -[63.64 --> 65.88] I don't want to lose my gaze -[65.88 --> 67.68] When I meet you face to face -[67.68 --> 70.18] Well done, well, come on -[70.18 --> 72.30] Now I'm running home -[72.30 --> 75.20] Like the prodigal -[75.20 --> 80.14] Oh, I'm lost in a feeling -[80.14 --> 87.46] That I came from this world -[87.46 --> 90.80] Going back to Eden -[90.80 --> 92.92] Ain't gonna be easy -[92.92 --> 96.46] But it leads me straight to you -[96.46 --> 98.38] Now I'm running home -[98.38 --> 102.20] Like a prodigal -[102.20 --> 105.38] I'm lost in a feeling -[105.38 --> 123.36] Like a prodigal -[123.36 --> 127.32] Like a prodigal -[127.32 --> 157.30] Like a prodigal -[157.32 --> 161.42] Gl Journey -[161.42 --> 162.46] I'm lost in a feeling -[162.46 --> 163.48] I'm running home -[163.48 --> 166.10] I'm searching for a dying -[166.10 --> 167.60] Like a prodigal -[167.60 --> 167.62] I'm collapsing -[167.62 --> 169.30] Well, I'm losing my erk tai -[169.30 --> 170.46] Life is no -[170.50 --> 173.94] All I need is pen -[173.94 --> 175.38] And even -[175.38 --> 176.50] Lately -[176.50 --> 178.24] I'm losing my feet -[178.24 --> 178.82] But we couldn'tpod -[178.82 --> 179.86] Like a prodigal -[179.86 --> 180.80] Like a prodigal -[180.80 --> 182.34] Help me -[182.34 --> 184.12] Oh something -[184.12 --> 185.02] Like a prodigal -[185.02 --> 215.00] Thank you. -[215.02 --> 245.00] Thank you. -[245.02 --> 275.00] Thank you. -[275.02 --> 305.00] Thank you. -[305.02 --> 335.00] Thank you. -[335.02 --> 365.00] Thank you. -[365.02 --> 395.00] Thank you. -[395.02 --> 425.00] Thank you. -[425.02 --> 455.00] Thank you. -[455.02 --> 485.00] Thank you. -[485.02 --> 515.00] Thank you. -[515.02 --> 545.00] Thank you. -[545.02 --> 575.00] Thank you. -[575.00 --> 604.98] Thank you. -[604.98 --> 634.96] Thank you. -[634.96 --> 664.94] Thank you. -[664.96 --> 694.94] Thank you. -[694.96 --> 724.94] Thank you. -[724.98 --> 754.94] Thank you. -[754.94 --> 756.94] Thank you. -[784.94 --> 814.92] Thank you. -[814.94 --> 844.92] Thank you. -[844.94 --> 874.92] Thank you. -[874.94 --> 904.92] Thank you. -[904.94 --> 934.92] Thank you. -[934.94 --> 964.92] Thank you. -[964.94 --> 994.92] Thank you. -[994.94 --> 1024.92] Thank you. -[1024.94 --> 1054.92] Thank you. -[1054.94 --> 1084.92] Thank you. -[1084.94 --> 1114.92] Thank you. -[1114.94 --> 1144.92] Thank you. -[1144.94 --> 1146.94] Thank you. -[1174.94 --> 1204.92] Thank you. -[1204.94 --> 1234.92] Thank you. -[1234.94 --> 1264.92] Thank you. -[1264.94 --> 1294.92] Thank you. -[1294.94 --> 1324.92] Thank you. -[1324.94 --> 1354.92] Thank you. -[1354.94 --> 1384.92] Amen. -[1384.92 --> 1414.90] Thank you. -[1414.90 --> 1444.90] Thank you. -[1444.90 --> 1474.88] Thank you. -[1474.90 --> 1504.88] Good morning. -[1504.88 --> 1534.86] Thank you. -[1534.88 --> 1564.86] Thank you. -[1564.88 --> 1594.86] Thank you. -[1594.88 --> 1624.86] Thank you. -[1624.86 --> 1654.84] Thank you. -[1654.86 --> 1684.84] Thank you. -[1684.84 --> 1714.82] Thank you. -[1714.84 --> 1744.82] Thank you. -[1744.84 --> 1774.82] Thank you. -[1774.84 --> 1804.82] Thank you. -[1804.82 --> 1834.80] Thank you. -[1834.80 --> 1864.78] Thank you. -[1864.80 --> 1894.78] Thank you. -[1894.80 --> 1924.78] Thank you. -[1924.80 --> 1954.78] Thank you. -[1954.80 --> 1984.78] Thank you. -[1984.80 --> 2014.78] Thank you. -[2014.80 --> 2044.78] Thank you. -[2044.80 --> 2074.78] Thank you. -[2074.80 --> 2104.78] Thank you. -[2104.78 --> 2134.76] Thank you. -[2134.78 --> 2164.76] Thank you. -[2164.78 --> 2194.76] Thank you. -[2194.78 --> 2224.76] Thank you. -[2224.76 --> 2254.76] Thank you. -[2254.76 --> 2284.74] Thank you. -[2284.74 --> 2314.72] Thank you. -[2314.72 --> 2344.70] Thank you. -[2344.70 --> 2374.68] Thank you. -[2374.68 --> 2404.66] Thank you. -[2404.66 --> 2434.64] Thank you. -[2434.64 --> 2464.62] Thank you. -[2464.64 --> 2494.62] Thank you. -[2494.62 --> 2524.60] Thank you. -[2524.62 --> 2554.60] Thank you. -[2554.62 --> 2584.60] Thank you. -[2584.62 --> 2614.60] Take you. -[2614.62 --> 2644.60] Thank you. -[2644.62 --> 2674.60] Thank you. -[2674.62 --> 2704.60] Thank you. -[2704.62 --> 2734.60] Thank you. -[2734.60 --> 2764.58] Thank you. -[2764.60 --> 2794.58] Thank you. -[2794.58 --> 2824.56] Thank you. -[2824.56 --> 2854.54] Thank you. -[2854.54 --> 2884.52] Thank you. -[2884.52 --> 2914.50] Thank you. -[2914.50 --> 2944.48] Thank you. -[2944.48 --> 2974.46] Thank you. -[2974.46 --> 3004.44] Thank you. -[3004.44 --> 3034.42] Thank you. -[3034.44 --> 3064.42] Thank you. -[3064.44 --> 3094.42] Thank you. -[3094.44 --> 3124.42] Thank you. -[3124.42 --> 3154.40] Thank you. -[3154.40 --> 3184.38] Thank you. -[3184.40 --> 3214.38] Thank you. -[3214.40 --> 3244.38] Thank you. -[3244.38 --> 3274.36] Good morning. -[3274.36 --> 3304.36] Thank you. -[3304.36 --> 3334.34] Thank you. -[3334.34 --> 3364.32] Thank you. -[3364.34 --> 3394.32] Thank you. -[3394.34 --> 3424.32] Thank you. -[3424.34 --> 3454.32] Thank you. -[3454.32 --> 3484.30] Thank you. -[3484.32 --> 3514.30] Thank you. -[3514.30 --> 3544.28] Good morning. -[3544.28 --> 3574.28] Thank you. -[3574.28 --> 3604.26] Thank you. -[3604.26 --> 3634.24] today. -[3634.26 --> 3664.24] We're going to do. -[3664.24 --> 3694.22] And everybody stand up. -[3694.22 --> 3724.20] Thank you. -[3724.22 --> 3754.20] Thank you. -[3754.20 --> 3784.18] Thank you. -[3784.18 --> 3814.16] Thank you. -[3814.16 --> 3844.16] Thank you. -[3844.16 --> 3874.14] Lord, that you're going to do. -[3874.14 --> 3904.12] Thank you. -[3904.12 --> 3934.12] Thank you. -[3934.12 --> 3964.12] Thank you. -[3964.12 --> 3994.10] Thank you. -[3994.12 --> 4024.10] Thank you. -[4024.12 --> 4054.10] Thank you. -[4054.12 --> 4084.10] Thank you. -[4084.12 --> 4114.10] Good morning. -[4114.10 --> 4144.10] Thank you. -[4144.10 --> 4174.10] Thank you. -[4174.10 --> 4204.10] And you're going to do. -[4204.10 --> 4234.10] Thank you. -[4234.10 --> 4264.10] Thank you. -[4264.10 --> 4294.10] Thank you. -[4294.10 --> 4324.10] -[4324.10 --> 4354.10] Thank you. -[4354.10 --> 4384.10] -[4384.10 --> 4414.10] Thank you. -[4414.10 --> 4444.10] Thank you. -[4444.10 --> 4474.10] God's power. -[4474.10 --> 4504.10] Thank you. -[4504.10 --> 4534.10] Thank you. -[4534.10 --> 4564.10] And you're going to do. -[4564.10 --> 4564.26] -[4594.10 --> 4600.20] powerful here, but it becomes even more powerful when we come to understand that the pagan gods -[4600.20 --> 4606.60] that the Canaanites believed in, they were nature worshipers, and they believed that their gods -[4606.60 --> 4612.58] lived in those mountains. Again, at the top of our screen there, that those false gods lived -[4612.58 --> 4620.36] in the mountains that this storm is just wreaking havoc on. David is saying that the Lord has no time -[4620.36 --> 4627.14] for these puny, impotent gods. He comes and he shakes their little houses with thunder and flashes of -[4627.14 --> 4634.86] lightning, shakes their houses with merely his voice. Think of this as like a big bad wolf and -[4634.86 --> 4640.02] three little pigs situation, except the pigs are the false gods, and they never really got into -[4640.02 --> 4646.30] masonry, and they're actually completely made up. And then God is not really a big bad wolf. He's -[4646.30 --> 4652.44] actually a really good, big, powerful God who controls everything by the power of his voice. -[4653.18 --> 4658.64] And now a quick note for you theology students, don't compare the God of the cosmos to the big -[4658.64 --> 4666.84] bad wolf because it's a terrible analogy, but you get the idea. This storm starts in the waters. -[4667.22 --> 4675.82] It moves onto land. It thunders the largest mountains. It snaps the largest trees where these made-up homes -[4675.82 --> 4681.98] to these made-up gods live. And then in verses 8 and 9, it continues, the voice of the Lord moves this -[4681.98 --> 4689.28] storm south, shaking the deserts of Kadesh, again at the bottom of the map there, and it twists the oaks -[4689.28 --> 4700.36] and strips the forest bare along the way. The whole land, from sea to sky, from east to west, from north to south, -[4700.36 --> 4713.52] is utterly dominated by this storm, by the voice of God, his power, his sovereign authority over all things. -[4714.52 --> 4721.96] And in one poem, in seven verses in the middle there, we read how God is not in nature. -[4721.96 --> 4733.22] God speaks, and nature is. God is not in nature. He made it, and he controls it. And while we're -[4733.22 --> 4739.56] encouraged, of course, to enjoy nature, we should always remember that we are not made to worship -[4739.56 --> 4747.42] nature or turn it into an idol, thinking that God is in it somehow. Because as great as nature is, -[4747.42 --> 4754.54] it is nothing compared to the God who created and controls it with merely a voice. -[4756.68 --> 4762.06] The voice of God here is over the waters and the mountains. The voice of God is powerful -[4762.06 --> 4769.10] and majestic. It thunders and snaps unbreakable things. The voice of God strikes and shakes and -[4769.10 --> 4775.16] twists. The voice of the Lord creates and controls. Throughout the whole Bible, Genesis 1, -[4775.16 --> 4783.54] God speaks, and the world is created. In Genesis 6 and 15 and 17 and in Exodus and in all of the -[4783.54 --> 4789.74] promises we read this morning and sang to this morning, God speaks and his promises are fulfilled. -[4792.86 --> 4798.52] He will be theirs and they will be his, and he will redeem us all from their sin. -[4798.52 --> 4806.44] These promises spoken by God and fulfilled both already and not yet in the life, death, and -[4806.44 --> 4812.22] resurrection of Christ his Son and in his future return when he will come and usher in the new -[4812.22 --> 4817.84] heaven and the new earth. That is the awe and the wonder of the voice of God. -[4817.84 --> 4824.96] And so what voice do we listen to? -[4826.96 --> 4835.60] What are the voices that we submit to in our world? What voice dominates our narratives? -[4835.60 --> 4845.52] What voice dominates our narratives? What voice dominates our narratives? What voice dominates our -[4845.52 --> 4853.12] culture quite loudly? The self-help book genre was still flying off the shelf in 2023 as people desire -[4853.12 --> 4858.40] to be better, whatever that means, but they're looking for any edge over other people to improve -[4858.40 --> 4865.76] themselves by working hard. Again, improving however that means. Books like Outlive, which is a book -[4865.76 --> 4872.32] helping us achieve longevity in this world, or Hidden Potential, a book about meant to help you become -[4872.32 --> 4879.44] more successful in this world, or a book called 4,000 Weeks, Time Management for Mortals, a book about -[4879.44 --> 4885.92] managing your time well, which I find ironic. Or if you would rather take your advice from famous people, -[4885.92 --> 4891.76] a couple more top self-help books that came out last year, Build Your Life, or Build the Life You -[4891.76 --> 4898.48] Want by Oprah Winfrey, no doubt an easy bar for us all to achieve. Or Be Useful, Seven Tools for Life -[4898.48 --> 4905.76] by Arnold Schwarzenegger, hopefully tools that the average person can lift. The point is those self-help -[4905.76 --> 4913.68] voices are out there, and they're loud. Maybe those voices aren't distracting us. Maybe we're more -[4913.68 --> 4919.20] distracted by the political voices out there. Political platforms, they speak to issues that we care about. -[4919.76 --> 4924.96] And those voices, they start to echo in our hearts and in our heads and eventually in our echo chambers online. -[4925.52 --> 4932.64] We align ourselves with a party, be it conservative or liberal or NDP, and we feel the need to bleed into -[4932.64 --> 4938.80] American politics even. And we align ourselves and set up camp with our Democrat friends or our Republican friends, -[4938.80 --> 4943.76] and we start to think we better stick to everything that this platform is saying, lest we be accused of -[4943.76 --> 4949.68] being an outsider or unloyal, which that's not a word. And we allow the voices of political jargon just to -[4949.68 --> 4958.40] keep our feet firmly planted in whatever camp that we feel we need to land in. And our fingers just firing -[4958.40 --> 4964.00] away on online posts threatening the voices of our political platform that we've become numb to hearing -[4964.00 --> 4970.48] over and over again. We got to defend that political stance, right? Or maybe it's not self-help or maybe -[4970.48 --> 4978.32] it's not political voices we hear too loudly, but maybe it's the voices of online influencers that are -[4978.32 --> 4984.48] ringing in our ears. The social media world is vast and the voices there are copious. There's always -[4984.48 --> 4992.16] athletes like Cristiano Ronaldo to keep tabs on. You can do that along with 787 million other people -[4992.16 --> 4998.96] following him online. Or actors like Selena Gomez with her 499 million followers. Or maybe the most -[4998.96 --> 5007.52] listened to artist in 2003 or 2023. Who was the most listened to musician in 2023? Anyone? Taylor Swift. -[5007.52 --> 5013.84] That's right. She's always trending, especially now that she basically owns the NFL. But it's not just -[5013.84 --> 5019.60] celebrities online that carry influence. There's people online that you've probably never heard of. -[5019.60 --> 5026.16] Michelle Lewin. She's a fitness influencer. You heard of her? 15 million people follow her and they have -[5026.16 --> 5032.80] her help them with their health. A beauty influencer, Becky G. She has 34 million followers trying to look -[5032.80 --> 5038.00] suave and sexy because of her influence. Or tech influencer, I think some of you will know this one, -[5038.00 --> 5044.16] Mark Rober. He's got 23 million subscribers and he can show you all sorts of avenues to pursue in the -[5044.16 --> 5055.04] world of popular science and engineering. But honestly, it's not even the well-known influencers on social -[5055.04 --> 5060.72] media with millions of followers that affect us the most online. Though they are the voices that perhaps -[5060.72 --> 5069.12] speak the loudest. Generally, it's your friends or your family, the people that you follow to see how life is -[5069.12 --> 5075.92] going. The posts you read and the voices you hear from the people you love and see either daily or -[5075.92 --> 5084.24] weekly or monthly or perhaps annually. So many are listening to the voices on social media. They see -[5084.24 --> 5090.72] their posts. They see their pictures. The lives they share. We compare and we contrast and we wish and we -[5090.72 --> 5096.32] can dream that our lives could be like that and none of it's real. Because all of it is just glimpses. -[5096.32 --> 5103.12] Mostly posed glimpses of moments in time where things are going really well. -[5105.12 --> 5114.08] And it's crippling a lot of us who compare what they see online, compare what they see on the socials -[5115.12 --> 5122.00] with what they experience in their own life. These are the voices in the world. These are the voices -[5122.00 --> 5128.56] competing for your attention, be it self-help, be it politics, be it online forums and social media. -[5128.56 --> 5134.80] These voices are out there. And I think if we have any self-awareness at all, we know that they're there. -[5136.80 --> 5139.60] So what voices are you listening to? -[5139.60 --> 5145.12] What voices are dominating your narrative, dominating your story? -[5146.72 --> 5153.04] Celebrity musings on bettering yourself? Political platforms meant to entrench you firmly? Social media -[5153.04 --> 5158.64] influencers inviting you to compare what they've got and what you have? -[5158.64 --> 5168.16] Now please hear this. This is not meant to be some rant like an old man sitting on his rocking chair on the -[5168.16 --> 5173.20] front porch of his house just yelling at people to get off of his lawn, something that I aspire to be one day. -[5173.20 --> 5184.80] There is a place for self-help books, though discerning the good ones from the cash grabs is important. There is a place for political loyalty. -[5185.44 --> 5189.92] So long as we understand that the platforms we align with are as depraved as we are, -[5190.72 --> 5195.52] and we are obligated to separate the good from the bad of any party that we support. -[5196.32 --> 5200.88] There's a place for social media, even following helpful media influencers. -[5200.88 --> 5213.20] So long as we are not blinded by their posts and thrust into some depression or anxiety because our everyday lives aren't as shiny as the three seconds that they demonstrate for us online. -[5214.80 --> 5218.56] The fact that these voices exist is not the problem. -[5220.96 --> 5228.00] The problem is that these voices drown out the only voice that does. -[5228.00 --> 5232.16] The voice that is powerful and majestic. -[5233.36 --> 5239.20] The voice that creates and controls the voice of the Lord that we see so powerfully in our text today. -[5240.40 --> 5247.04] The voice of the Lord is getting drowned out by self-help sections and social media doom scrolling. -[5247.04 --> 5256.72] I remember years ago, when I was a teenager, which is becoming more and more years ago as the calendars flip, -[5257.36 --> 5261.60] I was playing soccer for a rep team on Vancouver Island where I grew up. -[5262.00 --> 5268.32] I must have been in grade 10 or 11 because as the competition increased and as the level of play got better and better, -[5268.32 --> 5273.92] the parental involvement on the sidelines got louder and louder. -[5275.44 --> 5279.44] Now, I'm sure many of you high school or even university athletes can relate to that. -[5279.44 --> 5281.36] Perhaps a lot of you parents can relate to that. -[5281.36 --> 5288.00] I don't know what it is about high school sports, but whatever it is, it usually brings out the most obnoxious of our adult friends, doesn't it? -[5288.80 --> 5290.88] Anyways, early on in this particular season, -[5290.88 --> 5296.24] our team was becoming aware that the parents of us were becoming louder and louder. -[5297.36 --> 5300.72] They were yelling at calls made by the referees or the linesmen. -[5300.72 --> 5305.04] There was cheers of excitement or yells of frustration. -[5305.60 --> 5307.44] They seemed to be happening more regularly. -[5308.00 --> 5312.80] We even had four or five games that year where parents got red cards and got kicked off of the field. -[5312.80 --> 5316.92] And I think more parents got kicked out that season than players on my soccer team. -[5316.92 --> 5326.76] But perhaps the most problematic was that parents were regularly yelling instructions to us, to their kids, to the players, -[5327.56 --> 5331.32] explaining where they should go, what passes they should be doing, who should be supporting you, -[5331.32 --> 5335.00] what runs they should be doing, what set plays should be happening on free kicks, -[5335.40 --> 5342.28] and generally just backseat coaching with limited knowledge of the game or the tactics that we are trying to pull off. -[5342.28 --> 5349.64] Well, in a lesson that I will never forget, in one of his pre-game pep talks, our coach pulled the whole team aside, -[5349.96 --> 5352.04] and he said this, and I will remember this always. -[5352.04 --> 5358.20] He said, guys, you're hearing a lot of voices out there, a lot of parents telling you what you should do or shouldn't do. -[5358.92 --> 5361.48] I need you to ignore all of it. -[5362.28 --> 5363.40] Don't acknowledge them. -[5363.80 --> 5364.84] Don't look at them. -[5365.48 --> 5366.60] Don't respond to them. -[5367.32 --> 5368.60] Ignore it all completely. -[5368.60 --> 5372.04] You need to just listen to my voice. -[5372.92 --> 5378.46] If you listen to me, we will be unified and we will be able to accomplish what we set out to accomplish. -[5379.00 --> 5380.24] Ignore everyone else. -[5383.48 --> 5389.48] So how do we make sure that the Lord's voice is the one that we are hearing? -[5389.48 --> 5396.70] How do we make sure that it is the Lord's voice we hear amongst all the other voices out there? -[5397.60 --> 5402.44] How do we cut through the distracting voices around us because they're going to be there? -[5403.74 --> 5404.56] That's a given. -[5406.40 --> 5410.12] Psalm 29 gives us the right posture to do this. -[5412.22 --> 5413.74] Ascribe and worship. -[5414.28 --> 5415.50] Notice verses 1 and 2. -[5415.62 --> 5418.64] David teased this up right from the start. -[5418.64 --> 5421.40] Ascribe to the Lord, you heavenly beings. -[5421.60 --> 5424.18] Ascribe to the Lord glory and strength. -[5424.36 --> 5426.72] Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name. -[5427.22 --> 5431.04] Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness. -[5431.56 --> 5434.94] Ascribe, ascribe, ascribe, worship. -[5436.40 --> 5437.54] There's repetition again. -[5437.54 --> 5444.24] The word ascribe here is the Hebrew word yahav, which means to give or to acknowledge, to honor. -[5444.96 --> 5445.92] Acknowledge the Lord. -[5446.12 --> 5446.82] Honor the Lord. -[5446.98 --> 5448.50] Give the Lord glory. -[5448.62 --> 5449.14] He is due. -[5449.46 --> 5451.46] And finally, worship the Lord. -[5451.46 --> 5462.20] In order to allow the voice of the Lord to be heard above the noise around us, we are first and foremost to acknowledge him for who he is. -[5463.26 --> 5466.46] It starts with acknowledging him above all the noise. -[5466.66 --> 5468.74] Honoring him amongst the noise. -[5469.18 --> 5471.72] Glorifying him despite the noise. -[5472.06 --> 5474.92] And worshiping him not the noise. -[5474.92 --> 5481.04] Psalm 29 starts with this refrain in order to put God above all things. -[5482.24 --> 5493.44] And then, after we have heard of this great and powerful storm caused by God's voice, we see it come back to the same spot that it started in verse 9. -[5493.96 --> 5498.44] And all, and in his temple, all cry glory. -[5498.44 --> 5498.56] Glory. -[5500.20 --> 5504.06] This psalm starts with glory and it ends with glory. -[5504.16 --> 5512.88] The bookends of this psalm teach us that our response to the king over all creation is to first and foremost, above all things, acknowledge him. -[5514.90 --> 5516.32] Worship him. -[5517.26 --> 5522.48] God's power over creation declares him as king and calls us to worship him. -[5522.48 --> 5528.96] So again, with us, the question for you today, for me today, is this. -[5529.66 --> 5530.54] Do we do that? -[5531.86 --> 5532.82] Do we do that? -[5532.92 --> 5535.82] Do we acknowledge him above all things? -[5536.76 --> 5540.00] What do we recognize first and foremost in our lives? -[5540.56 --> 5542.12] What comes first for us? -[5542.80 --> 5543.92] Do we start our days? -[5544.02 --> 5544.86] Do we start our weeks? -[5544.94 --> 5546.72] Do we start our lives glorifying? -[5547.86 --> 5551.26] Because what we worship is what we're often ruminating on. -[5552.48 --> 5555.78] So real, just quick, what comes first in your life? -[5556.42 --> 5558.04] Scripture or screens? -[5559.76 --> 5561.22] Prayers or posts? -[5562.72 --> 5568.00] In the morning, are you quicker to turn your phone on and scroll your way through what's happening in the social media world? -[5568.68 --> 5570.26] Or open up the Bible app? -[5571.26 --> 5574.22] Is it more natural for you to listen to your favorite news anchor? -[5574.50 --> 5576.74] Or to turn on some worship music and praise his name? -[5576.74 --> 5581.04] Are you quicker to respond to your friend's Instagram story? -[5582.06 --> 5584.76] Or comment perhaps on the latest news article you read? -[5585.82 --> 5590.18] Or kneel before the Lord and offer him the glory that he deserves? -[5591.82 --> 5594.22] Does your day start and end with God? -[5594.56 --> 5596.80] Or start and end with some other voice? -[5596.80 --> 5601.12] Maybe that's what our resolution should be this year. -[5601.20 --> 5605.54] Maybe as a manual CRC, we decide every day to look at Scripture before screens. -[5605.86 --> 5608.00] Maybe as a church, we pray before we post. -[5608.66 --> 5611.18] And if that seems too pointed and direct for you, that's fine. -[5611.22 --> 5611.60] I get it. -[5611.88 --> 5615.56] I get some people don't love prescribed applications telling you how to live your life. -[5615.70 --> 5616.48] And that's cool. -[5616.56 --> 5620.26] You don't have to follow these specific instructions if you're bristling at it. -[5620.26 --> 5625.40] But maybe, maybe we're bristling because this is hitting home a little. -[5627.02 --> 5628.40] So think about it. -[5629.58 --> 5633.36] What voices are you putting first in your life? -[5633.88 --> 5637.28] What voice influences you most in your day to day? -[5637.98 --> 5642.08] Every day, every week, in your coming, in your going, what comes first? -[5643.54 --> 5644.42] God's voice? -[5645.82 --> 5647.72] Or the voices we see in this world? -[5647.72 --> 5656.80] And what can you do to ensure that being heard, that the only voice that matters is being heard above the noise? -[5659.68 --> 5660.96] I'm going to conclude here. -[5661.28 --> 5664.86] The end of Psalm 29 tells us why this matters so much. -[5665.78 --> 5667.08] Verses 10 and 11 says this. -[5667.28 --> 5669.64] The Lord sits enthroned over the flood. -[5670.20 --> 5672.12] The Lord is enthroned as king forever. -[5672.50 --> 5674.44] The Lord gives strength to his people. -[5674.44 --> 5677.48] The Lord blesses his people. -[5677.72 --> 5678.50] With peace. -[5679.68 --> 5681.54] The Lord is over the flood. -[5681.90 --> 5682.92] And is king forever. -[5683.26 --> 5686.02] He gives strength to his people every day. -[5686.46 --> 5690.50] And he blesses us with peace. -[5693.18 --> 5693.82] Peace. -[5694.20 --> 5698.42] This theme of receiving peace from our God is a theme throughout scripture. -[5698.56 --> 5700.14] Romans 5, 1-2 says this. -[5700.14 --> 5706.10] Since we have just been, or since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. -[5706.24 --> 5711.50] Through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. -[5711.76 --> 5713.60] Philippians 4, verse 7 says this. -[5713.60 --> 5721.96] And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. -[5721.96 --> 5726.24] Church, the 6 o'clock news makes us depressed. -[5726.24 --> 5728.98] The socials just bring us anxiety. -[5729.20 --> 5734.48] The noise of politics drives us to obnoxious rants in comment sections online. -[5734.48 --> 5741.02] But the voice of the Lord brings us peace, which transcends all understanding. -[5741.02 --> 5747.84] Giving the king of glory the worship he deserves above all. -[5749.50 --> 5751.98] Beyond the distracting voices of the world. -[5752.10 --> 5755.16] This will allow us to receive this transcendent peace. -[5755.34 --> 5759.80] Which is only available because we worship a transcendent God. -[5759.80 --> 5767.54] Because the voice of God that creates and controls even the most powerful storms that we read about in Psalm 29. -[5767.96 --> 5773.82] Is the same voice that came down from heaven and dwelt with his people. -[5774.94 --> 5777.32] Just a couple of weeks ago we celebrated Christmas. -[5778.16 --> 5783.00] The day we remember and we celebrate the transcendent God who came to be with us. -[5783.30 --> 5784.54] God with us. -[5784.70 --> 5785.06] Emmanuel. -[5785.06 --> 5785.18] Emmanuel. -[5786.22 --> 5793.62] In fact, when our Lord was born, the angels sang portions of Psalm 29 to the shepherds. -[5793.66 --> 5795.08] In Luke 2.13 we read, -[5795.16 --> 5799.58] Suddenly there was a multitude of heavenly hosts praising God and saying, -[5800.30 --> 5802.16] Glory to God in the highest heaven. -[5802.28 --> 5803.84] Verse 1 of Psalm 29. -[5804.08 --> 5807.74] And peace on earth to the people he favors. -[5808.48 --> 5809.74] Verse 11 of our psalm. -[5810.86 --> 5815.00] The voice of God came down to earth to be with us all. -[5815.28 --> 5824.72] In fact, the gospel truth of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection is so often centered on the fact that the voice or the word of God was active and present with his people. -[5826.36 --> 5827.68] John 1 verse 1. -[5827.76 --> 5830.42] The Christmas message from John's gospel says this. -[5830.70 --> 5833.28] The word became flesh and dwelt among us. -[5833.36 --> 5835.04] The word became flesh. -[5835.12 --> 5836.04] Matthew 3.17. -[5836.04 --> 5837.16] Jesus gets baptized. -[5837.80 --> 5839.84] And the voice of God calls down from heaven. -[5840.20 --> 5842.82] This is my son whom I am well pleased. -[5843.96 --> 5844.96] Or whom I love. -[5845.02 --> 5846.12] With him I am well pleased. -[5846.20 --> 5847.36] In Matthew 17.5. -[5847.40 --> 5848.92] At the transfiguration of Christ. -[5849.14 --> 5852.02] The voice of God calls down once more and says a similar thing. -[5852.30 --> 5854.10] This is my son whom I love. -[5854.16 --> 5856.00] With him I am well pleased. -[5856.42 --> 5857.38] Listen to him. -[5857.38 --> 5859.84] In John 6.68. -[5859.98 --> 5862.74] Peter, one of Jesus' disciples, says to Christ, -[5863.16 --> 5865.72] You have the words of eternal life. -[5866.44 --> 5869.82] We have come to believe and know that you are the Holy One of God. -[5870.80 --> 5871.84] Mark 4.39. -[5872.28 --> 5876.16] Jesus is on this boat and a large storm comes and terrifies his disciples, -[5876.36 --> 5878.58] many of whom are expert fishermen. -[5878.58 --> 5884.78] And he comes out on deck and he calms the storm saying simply, -[5885.64 --> 5886.00] Quiet. -[5886.54 --> 5887.18] Be still. -[5888.24 --> 5890.26] Proving he is God. -[5890.52 --> 5891.98] Lord over the flood. -[5892.64 --> 5893.84] As Psalm 29 says. -[5894.58 --> 5895.88] And all of this matters. -[5896.42 --> 5900.08] Because the voice of God who controls the storms of this world, -[5900.38 --> 5902.64] who speaks everything into existence, -[5903.10 --> 5905.22] came down, put on flesh, -[5905.64 --> 5907.76] experienced this life that we live. -[5907.76 --> 5910.76] He lived the life that we all should have lived. -[5910.86 --> 5914.10] And then he died the death that you and I all deserve to die. -[5914.44 --> 5916.60] And with his voice on the cross, -[5916.74 --> 5917.62] he proclaimed, -[5918.08 --> 5919.90] Father, forgive them, -[5920.18 --> 5921.72] for they do not know what they do. -[5922.34 --> 5924.54] And finally, with his voice, he cried out, -[5924.80 --> 5925.66] It is finished. -[5927.26 --> 5928.84] But then, three days later, -[5928.92 --> 5930.48] that same word become flesh, -[5930.84 --> 5931.82] rose from the dead, -[5931.90 --> 5934.12] defeating sin and death once and for all. -[5934.18 --> 5936.12] He appeared to over 500 people -[5936.12 --> 5937.58] before ascending to heaven, -[5937.58 --> 5941.10] where he sits at God's right hand on the throne -[5941.10 --> 5942.74] and uses his voice -[5942.74 --> 5947.30] to mediate on behalf of all who come -[5947.30 --> 5949.00] to him -[5949.00 --> 5950.78] with repentant hearts, -[5951.58 --> 5954.46] offering grace for all who believe. -[5954.46 --> 5959.68] His voice is still active in your life. -[5961.42 --> 5962.50] In my life. -[5962.84 --> 5965.88] That same voice was there at the beginning of time, -[5966.30 --> 5968.38] speaking over the storm in Psalm 29. -[5968.88 --> 5970.24] And then, one day, -[5970.98 --> 5972.18] this voice came down -[5972.18 --> 5974.92] and was cooing to his mother as a baby. -[5976.34 --> 5977.42] This voice grew up, -[5977.54 --> 5979.08] calmed the storms once again, -[5979.08 --> 5981.08] and declared the truth of his purpose -[5981.08 --> 5982.96] and the fulfillment of his promises -[5982.96 --> 5983.78] for generations. -[5983.96 --> 5984.74] And this voice -[5984.74 --> 5986.14] is now speaking -[5986.14 --> 5988.30] for you -[5988.30 --> 5991.12] by his Father's throne in heaven. -[5993.66 --> 5994.22] Speaking -[5994.22 --> 5995.64] to you -[5995.64 --> 5996.98] through the words -[5996.98 --> 5997.92] of Scripture. -[5997.92 --> 6001.08] Jesus, the voice of God -[6001.08 --> 6002.52] is speaking to you today, -[6002.82 --> 6003.58] saying the words -[6003.58 --> 6005.00] of Matthew 11, 28, -[6005.46 --> 6006.14] Come to me, -[6006.24 --> 6007.70] all you who are weary -[6007.70 --> 6008.68] and burdened, -[6008.68 --> 6011.44] and I will give you rest. -[6012.00 --> 6012.94] His voice -[6012.94 --> 6013.84] is there. -[6014.96 --> 6015.96] He speaks to us -[6015.96 --> 6016.72] through the Spirit, -[6017.08 --> 6017.82] in your hearts, -[6017.96 --> 6019.28] through your brothers and sisters, -[6019.52 --> 6021.14] and powerfully through his word. -[6021.14 --> 6022.84] Do you hear it? -[6024.70 --> 6026.04] Or are the distractions -[6026.04 --> 6028.76] and the voices of this world -[6028.76 --> 6029.48] drowning it out? -[6030.76 --> 6031.96] There's a lot of voices -[6031.96 --> 6032.78] in the world today, -[6032.88 --> 6033.44] but Jesus -[6033.44 --> 6034.96] is speaking. -[6036.34 --> 6037.60] Are we listening? -[6038.76 --> 6039.08] Amen. -[6039.54 --> 6040.34] Please pray with me. -[6042.62 --> 6043.40] Father God, -[6043.50 --> 6044.40] your voice -[6044.40 --> 6046.40] has been there -[6046.40 --> 6048.34] throughout the dawn of time. -[6048.44 --> 6049.00] You spoke -[6049.00 --> 6050.24] and this world was created. -[6050.24 --> 6050.96] You spoke -[6050.96 --> 6052.02] and promises were made. -[6052.10 --> 6052.60] You spoke -[6052.60 --> 6053.44] and you said -[6053.44 --> 6054.48] you would be our God -[6054.48 --> 6055.92] and we would be your people. -[6056.26 --> 6057.24] And those words -[6057.24 --> 6058.38] are true, -[6058.52 --> 6059.86] have always been true, -[6059.88 --> 6061.30] and will continue to be true. -[6062.20 --> 6062.98] And yet, God, -[6063.04 --> 6063.76] in this world, -[6063.84 --> 6065.56] there are so many voices -[6065.56 --> 6067.02] competing for space -[6067.02 --> 6067.70] in our heads. -[6069.22 --> 6070.52] God, may you -[6070.52 --> 6072.70] cut through the noise. -[6074.18 --> 6075.32] God, allow us -[6075.32 --> 6076.58] the discipline, -[6077.22 --> 6077.96] the effort, -[6078.94 --> 6079.70] the determination -[6079.70 --> 6080.62] and the will -[6080.62 --> 6082.20] to cut through the noise -[6082.20 --> 6083.30] to listen to you, -[6084.12 --> 6085.58] to open up your words, -[6086.16 --> 6087.64] to listen to how you speak -[6087.64 --> 6088.14] through others -[6088.14 --> 6089.06] into our lives, -[6089.76 --> 6090.64] and to discern -[6090.64 --> 6091.84] what it is you are calling -[6091.84 --> 6092.88] for us to do -[6092.88 --> 6093.66] each and every day. -[6095.36 --> 6097.04] Lord, may you be the voice -[6097.04 --> 6098.34] that rises above the rest -[6098.34 --> 6099.06] in our lives. -[6099.52 --> 6101.14] And may you bring us -[6101.14 --> 6101.98] this year -[6101.98 --> 6103.12] to a place -[6103.12 --> 6103.92] where we allow that -[6103.92 --> 6104.40] to happen. -[6105.14 --> 6106.18] God, stir in our hearts -[6106.18 --> 6107.34] what it is we need to do -[6107.34 --> 6108.34] in our lives, -[6108.38 --> 6108.96] what things need -[6108.96 --> 6109.78] to be shaken up, -[6110.20 --> 6111.00] what changes need -[6111.00 --> 6111.48] to be made, -[6111.56 --> 6113.68] so that we put your voice -[6113.68 --> 6117.04] above the rest. -[6118.26 --> 6119.00] And God, we pray this -[6119.00 --> 6119.50] in your name. -[6120.20 --> 6120.50] Amen. -[6124.26 --> 6125.02] As we sing. -[6125.02 --> 6143.94] God, God dijo, -[6143.94 --> 6146.10] God says, -[6146.10 --> 6167.06] O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder -[6167.06 --> 6174.68] Consider all thy works, thy hands at me -[6174.68 --> 6182.96] I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder -[6182.96 --> 6190.62] Thy power through all the universe display -[6190.62 --> 6199.18] Then cease my soul, my favor, God to me -[6199.18 --> 6207.46] How great thou art, how great thou art -[6207.46 --> 6215.18] Then cease my soul, my Savior, God to me -[6215.18 --> 6223.40] How great thou art, how great thou art -[6223.40 --> 6231.68] And through the world, and for its faith I wander -[6231.68 --> 6239.68] I hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees -[6239.68 --> 6247.96] When I look down from lofty mountain tender -[6247.96 --> 6255.16] And hear the brook, and feel the gentle breeze -[6255.16 --> 6262.96] Then cease my soul, my Savior, God to me -[6262.96 --> 6271.24] How great thou art, how great thou art -[6271.24 --> 6278.24] It sings my soul, my Savior, God to me -[6278.24 --> 6286.82] How great thou art, how great thou art -[6286.82 --> 6288.82] How great thou art, how great thou art, how great thou art -[6288.82 --> 6295.10] And when I think that God is sung not sparing -[6295.10 --> 6303.10] Sent him to die, I scarce can take it in -[6303.10 --> 6311.38] That on the cross, my burden gladly buried -[6311.38 --> 6319.38] He bled and died to take away my sin -[6319.38 --> 6327.10] And sings my soul, my Savior, God to me -[6327.10 --> 6329.10] How great thou art, how great thou art -[6329.10 --> 6335.10] How great thou art, how great thou art -[6335.10 --> 6343.10] It sings my soul, my Savior, God to me -[6343.10 --> 6351.10] How great thou art, how great thou art -[6351.10 --> 6359.10] Then I shall come with shadow of acclimation -[6359.10 --> 6367.10] And drink it home, for joy shall fill my heart -[6367.10 --> 6375.10] Then I shall come in humble adoration -[6375.10 --> 6377.10] And hear the brook, and help her son -[6377.10 --> 6379.10] And hear the brook, my God to me -[6379.10 --> 6383.10] How great thou art, how great thou art -[6383.10 --> 6391.10] And sings my soul, my Savior, God to me -[6391.10 --> 6395.10] How great thou art, how great thou art -[6395.10 --> 6399.10] How great thou art, how great thou art -[6399.10 --> 6405.66] It sings my soul, my Savior God to me. -[6407.12 --> 6414.82] How brave thou art, how brave thou art. -[6420.26 --> 6427.54] As we go from this place, please be invited to join us in the fellowship hall or in the sanctuary for some coffee refreshments. -[6427.54 --> 6430.72] We'd love to spend some time with you today before you head on home. -[6430.92 --> 6438.04] If something is stirring in your heart and you need prayer this morning, there will be a prayer member up here or perhaps even in the back. -[6438.18 --> 6440.16] They'll have a name tag with yellow on it. -[6440.18 --> 6440.86] Please seek them out. -[6440.88 --> 6444.02] They will happily pray for you or turn to someone else around you. -[6444.06 --> 6446.20] They will also be happy to pray for you in this church. -[6446.80 --> 6453.92] And as we go from this place, please hear these words from number six, verse 22, the priestly blessing. -[6453.92 --> 6458.86] As we go from this place to hear the voice of the Lord in all that we do. -[6459.64 --> 6462.52] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[6463.00 --> 6466.44] The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[6466.86 --> 6471.92] The Lord turn his face toward you and give you his peace. -[6472.42 --> 6473.72] And all God's people said. -[6473.72 --> 6474.22] Amen. -[6474.22 --> 6488.62] Great is he who's the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. -[6488.62 --> 6491.30] He is wonderful. -[6491.30 --> 6514.52] Great is he who's the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. -[6514.52 --> 6517.32] He is wonderful. -[6517.32 --> 6527.60] Great is he who's the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. -[6527.60 --> 6530.34] He is wonderful. -[6531.92 --> 6540.76] Great is he who's the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. -[6540.76 --> 6570.74] He is wonderful. -[6570.76 --> 6600.74] Great is he who's the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. -[6600.74 --> 6603.00] Thank you. -[6603.00 --> 6603.34] You're welcome. -[6603.78 --> 6605.70] Great is he who Roman国ai República. -[6605.70 --> 6606.04] Thank you. -[6610.28 --> 6612.62] Thank you again. -[6612.76 --> 6613.24] Do it work. -[6614.24 --> 6619.74] Thank you. -[6619.74 --> 6620.20] Thank you. -[6620.58 --> 6624.52] Thank you. -[6624.52 --> 6625.72] Thank you. -[6625.72 --> 6655.70] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, July 13 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, July 13 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 98f5684c5ed9975734b392bd568438cb2dc0fd9a..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, July 13 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,79 +0,0 @@ -• Prayer for God's presence and filling -• Acknowledging sin and asking for mercy -• Desiring a deeper connection with God -• Trusting in God as rock, salvation, and refuge -• Pouring out hearts to God in worship -• Singing hymns of praise and strength in God -• God is eternal and does not grow weary -• God comforts those in need and lifts them up like eagles -• God is a defender of the weak -• Waiting on God brings strength -• The goodness of God runs after its children -• Surrendering to God brings full surrender -• Speaking pleasing words is a prayer for children of God -• Needing God's presence and help in daily life -• Struggling with sin and the influence of old nature -• Seeking forgiveness and purification of desires -• Recognizing God's guidance and control over hearts -• Acknowledging dependence on God for everything -• Praising God's holiness, love, and redemption -• Expressing gratitude and devotion to God -• The congregation's gift to the church budget and special offering for the Langley Food Bank -• Report on the success of the recent food bank drive and festival in the Murrayville community -• Explanation for holding the event in July, as it is a month when the food bank typically receives less support -• Congratulatory comments and thanks from the deacons to the congregation -• Prayer requests and thanksgiving for various individuals and groups within the church and community -• Prayers for transition and education -• Accountability as a gift from God -• The importance of living in the light, not darkness or sin -• Genesis 3: Satan's temptation of Adam and Eve, and their subsequent sin -• The concept that sin is tricky and can blow one's life wide open -• The story of Adam and Eve's sin in the Garden of Eden -• God's questioning of Adam about his nakedness and eating from the forbidden tree -• The curses placed on the serpent, woman, and man for their disobedience -• God's warning to Adam that he will return to the ground from which he was made -• A passage from James 5 about prayer and confession in times of trouble or sickness -• The importance of accountability and confessing sin to others in order to be healed -• The consequences of sin, including isolation, alienation, and shame -• Sin forces people to hide and cover up their true selves. -• In the Garden, Adam and Eve were able to live openly and authentically, without shame or pretenses. -• Sin leads to shame, which causes people to hide and become less of who God designed them to be. -• Marty McFly's story is used as an analogy for how sin can "unbecome" us. -• The question "Where are you?" is a question of grace that God asks, inviting people to live openly and authentically with Him. -• Accountability is necessary to help people overcome their shame and become who they were designed to be. -• Importance of living in the light and being honest about sin -• Definition of accountability as being answerable to someone else -• Examples of everyday situations where accountability is important (marriage, parenting, finances) -• Benefits of living with accountability, including flourishing and reducing shame -• Consequences of not living with accountability, using examples such as government corruption, academic performance, and financial irresponsibility -• Accountability is necessary for personal growth and avoiding negative consequences -• The concept of accountability can be compared to gardening, where providing adequate light allows plants to thrive -• Living in the light is a key aspect of Christian accountability, allowing individuals to confront and overcome past traumas or secrets -• Being personally accountable means taking responsibility for one's own faith and making intentional decisions about spiritual growth -• Christian accountability also involves being communally accountable, confessing sins to others and praying for their healing -• Accountability is best achieved in community -• The law is good because it shows where we are and what we need to do, but we can't obey the law without the Spirit -• The sacrificial system in the Old Testament was a way of being accountable for sin through the community -• Coming to church on Sunday morning can be a simple way to practice accountability -• Intimate accountability relationships, such as small groups, are also important -• Being accountable to oneself by stewaring one's faith is also essential -• Ultimately, being accountable to God and open to the Spirit's work in our lives is crucial. -• The relationship between humans and God -• Recognizing when the spirit speaks through experiences or situations -• Living in openness and accountability with others -• Struggling with sin and shame, and seeking help from God and spiritual guidance -• The importance of community and relationships in living a life of light and truth -• Discussion of the Last Supper and the significance of Christ's body and blood -• Explanation that the wine may be grape juice rather than actual wine -• Instructions for observing the Lord's Supper, including receiving elements and remembering God's desire for believers to truly live -• Music played during the service, with a focus on lyrics referencing Christ as cornerstone, weak made strong through His love, and standing before the throne -• Jesus Christ as the Lamb of God -• The power of His blood to wash away sin -• The beauty and majesty of His body and sacrifice -• The resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead -• Praise and worship of God's name forevermore -• Eternal life and singing praise to God in heaven -• A dying Savior's love and power, a risen Savior's ascension -• Praise to the King eternal, immortal, and wise God -• Acknowledgement of God's wisdom and glory -• Expressions of gratitude (repeated) \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, July 13 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, July 13 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 5bd8e0f55c0b95c10030a52fc771741a456c8fee..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, July 13 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1225 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 25.88] I can feel you flowing through me, Holy Spirit, come and fill me up, come and fill me up. -[30.00 --> 45.76] Love and mercy fill my sancties, I am thirsty for your presence, Lord, my Lord, come and fill me up. -[45.76 --> 58.14] Lord, let your mercy wash away all of my sin. -[59.60 --> 67.76] Fill me completely with your love once again. -[67.76 --> 78.24] I need you, I want you, I love your presence. -[78.24 --> 88.90] I need you, I want you, I love your presence. -[88.90 --> 118.88] Fill me up. -[118.90 --> 119.68] Fill me up. -[119.68 --> 120.52] Yeah. -[121.36 --> 135.88] Love and mercy fill my sancties, I am thirsty for your presence, Lord, come and fill me up. -[135.88 --> 137.90] Come and fill me up. -[137.90 --> 138.80] Come. -[138.80 --> 157.66] Come and fill me up. -[157.66 --> 164.90] I need you, I want you -[164.90 --> 168.82] I love your presence -[168.82 --> 174.74] I need you, I want you -[174.74 --> 179.78] I love your presence -[179.78 --> 186.98] I need you, I want you -[186.98 --> 190.80] I love your presence -[190.80 --> 196.82] I need you, I want you -[196.82 --> 201.82] I love your presence -[201.82 --> 204.40] Come and fill me up -[204.40 --> 206.34] I need you -[206.34 --> 209.26] Come and fill me up -[209.26 --> 210.94] I need you -[210.94 --> 214.24] Come and fill me up -[214.24 --> 216.24] I need you -[216.24 --> 217.06] I need you -[217.06 --> 219.18] You're the only one who can -[219.18 --> 220.68] Fill me up -[220.68 --> 222.06] I need you -[222.06 --> 224.12] I need you -[224.12 --> 226.20] I need you -[226.20 --> 228.06] You're the only one who can -[228.06 --> 230.06] Fill me up -[230.06 --> 234.04] I need you -[234.04 --> 235.88] I need you -[235.88 --> 236.86] Come and fill you -[236.86 --> 237.86] I need you -[237.86 --> 238.48] You're the only one in your -[238.48 --> 240.84] I need you -[240.84 --> 242.98] I need you -[242.98 --> 244.18] You must fill me up -[244.44 --> 246.00] I need you -[246.00 --> 246.66] I need you -[246.66 --> 246.96] I need you -[246.96 --> 248.18] I need you -[248.18 --> 249.44] I need you -[249.44 --> 250.62] I need you -[250.62 --> 251.82] You must fill me up -[251.82 --> 252.00] I need you -[252.00 --> 252.86] I need you -[252.86 --> 253.82] You must fill me up -[253.82 --> 254.96] I need you -[254.96 --> 255.80] I need you -[255.80 --> 256.38] I need you -[256.38 --> 286.36] We'll be right back. -[286.38 --> 316.36] We'll be right back. -[316.38 --> 346.36] We'll be right back. -[346.38 --> 376.36] We'll be right back. -[376.38 --> 406.36] We'll be right back. -[406.36 --> 436.34] We'll be right back. -[436.34 --> 466.32] We'll be right back. -[466.32 --> 496.30] We'll be right back. -[496.30 --> 526.28] We'll be right back. -[526.30 --> 556.28] We'll be right back. -[556.28 --> 559.62] Yes, my soul rest in God. -[560.12 --> 561.72] My hope comes from him. -[562.42 --> 564.80] Truly, he is my rock and my salvation. -[565.32 --> 566.56] He is my fortress. -[566.94 --> 568.04] I will not be shaken. -[569.04 --> 572.22] My salvation and my honor depends on God. -[572.48 --> 575.28] He is my mighty rock, my refuge. -[575.28 --> 576.54] Trust in him. -[576.54 --> 576.62] Trust in him. -[576.62 --> 577.12] Trust in him. -[577.12 --> 578.96] Trust in him at all times, you people. -[579.96 --> 584.40] Pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. -[584.40 --> 586.40] We come together. -[586.40 --> 590.78] We come together to pour out our hearts to him, our rock. -[590.78 --> 591.84] Let's sing. -[591.84 --> 591.88] Let's sing. -[591.88 --> 591.90] Let's sing. -[591.90 --> 592.82] Let's sing. -[592.82 --> 594.82] Let's sing. -[594.82 --> 595.82] Let's sing. -[595.82 --> 596.82] Let's sing. -[596.82 --> 603.82] Let's sing. -[603.82 --> 610.82] strength arises -[610.82 --> 615.82] strength arises we wait -[615.82 --> 618.82] we will wait -[618.82 --> 624.82] strength arises we wait -[624.82 --> 627.82] upon the Lord -[627.82 --> 632.82] you reign forever -[632.82 --> 639.82] our strong deliverer -[639.82 --> 643.82] you are the everlasting God -[643.82 --> 647.82] the everlasting God -[647.82 --> 651.82] you do not faint you won't -[651.82 --> 655.82] grow weary -[655.82 --> 659.82] you're the defender of the weak -[659.82 --> 664.82] you comfort those in need -[664.82 --> 670.82] you lift us upon wings like evil -[670.82 --> 674.82] strength arises we wait upon the Lord -[674.82 --> 677.82] we will wait upon the Lord -[677.82 --> 680.82] we will wait upon the Lord -[680.82 --> 683.82] strength arises we wait upon the Lord -[683.82 --> 684.82] we will wait upon the Lord -[684.82 --> 685.82] we will wait upon the Lord -[685.82 --> 687.82] we will wait upon the Lord -[687.82 --> 688.82] our God -[688.82 --> 692.82] you may for -[692.82 --> 696.82] oh -[696.82 --> 700.82] strong -[700.82 --> 708.82] you are the everlasting God -[708.82 --> 712.82] the everlasting God you do not -[712.82 --> 716.82] wait you won't grow weary -[716.82 --> 718.82] you're the -[718.82 --> 720.82] defender of -[720.82 --> 722.82] the weak -[722.82 --> 724.82] you comfort those -[724.82 --> 726.82] in need -[726.82 --> 728.82] you lift us -[728.82 --> 730.82] upon wings -[730.82 --> 732.82] like eagles -[732.82 --> 734.82] you are -[734.82 --> 736.82] the everlasting -[736.82 --> 738.82] God -[738.82 --> 740.82] the everlasting -[740.82 --> 742.82] God -[742.82 --> 744.82] you do not -[744.82 --> 746.82] wait you won't -[746.82 --> 748.82] grow weary -[748.82 --> 750.82] you're the -[750.82 --> 752.82] defender of -[752.82 --> 754.82] the weak -[754.82 --> 756.82] you comfort those -[756.82 --> 758.82] in need -[758.82 --> 760.82] you lift us -[760.82 --> 762.82] upon wings -[762.82 --> 764.82] like eagles -[764.82 --> 766.82] strength will rise -[766.82 --> 768.82] as we wait upon the -[768.82 --> 770.82] we will wait -[770.82 --> 771.82] we will wait -[771.82 --> 772.82] upon the -[772.82 --> 774.82] Lord -[776.82 --> 778.82] Amen -[778.82 --> 801.08] I love you, Lord. -[803.12 --> 807.10] Oh, your mercy never fails me. -[807.10 --> 814.10] All my days I've been held in your hands. -[815.10 --> 819.10] From the moment that I lay down, -[819.10 --> 823.10] until I lay in my hands, -[823.10 --> 829.10] I will sing of the goodness of God. -[829.10 --> 837.10] All my life you have been faithful. -[837.10 --> 847.10] All my life you have been so, so good. -[847.10 --> 851.10] With every breath that I am laid, -[851.10 --> 859.10] I will sing of the goodness of God. -[859.10 --> 865.10] I love your voice. -[865.10 --> 869.10] You have led me through the fire. -[869.10 --> 872.10] In the darkest night, -[872.10 --> 876.10] You are close like no other. -[876.10 --> 880.10] I've known you as a father. -[880.10 --> 884.10] I've known you as a friend. -[884.10 --> 890.10] I have lived in the goodness of God. -[890.10 --> 892.10] I love you, Lord. -[892.10 --> 894.10] I love you, Lord. -[894.10 --> 896.10] I love you, Lord. -[896.10 --> 898.10] I love you, Lord. -[898.10 --> 902.10] I love you, Lord. -[902.10 --> 904.10] I love you, Lord. -[904.10 --> 906.10] I love you, Lord. -[906.10 --> 908.10] I love you, Lord. -[908.10 --> 910.10] I love you, Lord. -[910.10 --> 913.10] When I am in the morning when I lay down, -[913.10 --> 916.10] what a matter of your eyes, -[916.10 --> 917.10] when you are in your hands, -[917.10 --> 921.10] I will sing of the goodness of God. -[922.10 --> 925.10] Your goodness is running after -[925.10 --> 929.10] Who's running after me. -[929.10 --> 932.10] Your goodness is running after -[932.10 --> 935.10] Who's running after me. -[935.10 --> 937.10] If my life lay down, -[937.10 --> 939.10] I surrender now, -[939.10 --> 941.44] And I give you everything -[941.44 --> 945.98] Your goodness is running after -[945.98 --> 948.88] It's running after me -[948.88 --> 953.02] Your goodness is running after -[953.02 --> 955.98] It's running after me -[955.98 --> 959.88] Your goodness is running after -[959.88 --> 962.72] It's running after me -[962.72 --> 965.04] With my life laid down -[965.04 --> 966.86] I surrender now -[966.86 --> 969.24] I give you everything -[969.24 --> 973.84] Your goodness is running after -[973.84 --> 977.36] It's running after me -[977.36 --> 987.68] All my life you have been faithful -[987.68 --> 996.18] All my life you have been so, so good -[996.86 --> 1001.42] With every breath that I am made for -[1001.42 --> 1008.24] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1008.24 --> 1014.80] I will sing of the goodness of God -[1014.80 --> 1021.84] Psalm 19 verse 14 says -[1021.84 --> 1023.36] That's how you do this, sit seated, sorry -[1023.36 --> 1024.42] Sit first, it's okay -[1024.42 --> 1026.26] Please be seated -[1026.26 --> 1030.40] It's okay -[1030.40 --> 1034.30] Psalm 19 verse 14 says -[1034.30 --> 1036.26] May the words of my mouth -[1036.26 --> 1038.80] May the words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart -[1038.80 --> 1042.12] Be pleasing in your sight, Lord -[1042.12 --> 1044.70] My rock and my redeemer -[1044.70 --> 1048.70] This is our prayer as children of God -[1048.70 --> 1051.56] That what our hearts dwell on -[1051.56 --> 1054.00] What captures our passions -[1054.00 --> 1056.84] Is pleasing in our Father's sight -[1056.84 --> 1061.20] We pray that the words we speak show a heart -[1061.20 --> 1062.70] That has been reborn -[1062.70 --> 1065.82] That in him we are a new creation -[1065.82 --> 1069.40] Speaking in a way that communicates his love -[1069.40 --> 1071.40] That's power heads -[1071.40 --> 1076.94] Father, our heart's desire is to please you -[1076.94 --> 1080.00] Continue to fill us with your spirit -[1080.00 --> 1084.10] And purify our desires to fall in step with you -[1084.10 --> 1090.58] Forgive us when we let our old nature influence what we say -[1090.58 --> 1094.26] And control what our hearts long for -[1094.26 --> 1097.36] May the words we speak -[1097.36 --> 1099.66] And the things we meditate on -[1099.66 --> 1101.66] Be pleasing to you -[1101.66 --> 1103.70] Lord, we need you -[1103.70 --> 1104.50] Amen -[1104.50 --> 1107.76] When we rise and sing this next song -[1107.76 --> 1130.72] Lord, I come -[1130.72 --> 1133.88] I confess -[1133.88 --> 1137.98] Now in here -[1137.98 --> 1141.60] I find my rest -[1141.60 --> 1144.32] Without you -[1144.32 --> 1148.08] I fall apart -[1148.08 --> 1151.52] You're the one -[1151.52 --> 1155.22] That guides my heart -[1155.22 --> 1162.12] Lord, I need you -[1162.12 --> 1166.64] Oh, I need you -[1166.64 --> 1169.84] Every hour -[1169.84 --> 1170.84] Every hour -[1170.84 --> 1172.84] I need you -[1172.84 --> 1175.68] My love -[1175.68 --> 1176.88] May hence -[1176.88 --> 1180.02] My righteousness -[1180.02 --> 1182.20] Oh God -[1182.20 --> 1185.50] How I need you -[1185.50 --> 1193.22] Where sin runs deep -[1193.22 --> 1196.22] Your grace is more -[1196.22 --> 1199.94] Where grace is found -[1199.94 --> 1200.22] Where grace is found -[1200.22 --> 1203.22] Is where you are -[1203.22 --> 1206.22] And where you are -[1206.22 --> 1213.94] Lord, I am free -[1213.94 --> 1218.94] Where you are -[1218.94 --> 1219.94] Lord, I am free -[1219.94 --> 1223.94] Holiness -[1223.94 --> 1229.94] Is Christ in me -[1229.94 --> 1237.66] Lord, I am free -[1237.66 --> 1238.22] Jesus -[1238.22 --> 1240.66] You're my hope and save -[1240.66 --> 1243.66] Lord, I need you -[1243.66 --> 1248.18] Lord, I need you -[1248.18 --> 1251.38] Oh, I need you -[1251.38 --> 1255.30] Every hour -[1255.30 --> 1255.64] I need you -[1255.64 --> 1263.52] Every hour -[1263.52 --> 1267.32] I need you -[1267.32 --> 1271.34] Every hour -[1271.34 --> 1272.08] I need you -[1272.10 --> 1273.30] anyway -[1273.30 --> 1273.96] It's my pastry -[1273.96 --> 1276.30] Oh, I need you -[1276.30 --> 1278.30] you -[1278.30 --> 1280.30] every -[1280.30 --> 1282.30] hour I -[1282.30 --> 1284.30] need you -[1284.30 --> 1286.30] my one -[1286.30 --> 1288.30] defense -[1288.30 --> 1290.30] my one -[1290.30 --> 1292.30] righteousness -[1292.30 --> 1294.30] oh God -[1294.30 --> 1296.30] how I need -[1296.30 --> 1298.30] you -[1306.30 --> 1326.30] you are -[1326.30 --> 1328.30] forever -[1328.30 --> 1330.30] Lord -[1330.30 --> 1332.30] Jesus -[1332.30 --> 1336.30] we are -[1336.30 --> 1338.30] a paper -[1338.30 --> 1340.30] you are eternal -[1340.30 --> 1342.30] love everlasting -[1342.30 --> 1344.30] reigning -[1344.30 --> 1346.30] on high -[1346.30 --> 1348.30] holy -[1348.30 --> 1350.30] holy -[1350.30 --> 1352.30] Lord -[1352.30 --> 1354.30] God almighty -[1354.30 --> 1356.30] worthy -[1356.30 --> 1358.30] is the lamb -[1358.30 --> 1360.30] who was slain -[1360.30 --> 1362.30] highest -[1362.30 --> 1364.30] praises -[1364.30 --> 1366.30] honor -[1366.30 --> 1368.30] and glory -[1368.30 --> 1370.30] be unto -[1370.30 --> 1372.30] your name -[1372.30 --> 1374.30] be unto -[1374.30 --> 1378.30] your name -[1378.30 --> 1380.30] we are -[1380.30 --> 1382.30] the broken -[1382.30 --> 1384.30] you are -[1384.30 --> 1386.30] the healer -[1386.30 --> 1388.30] redeemer -[1388.30 --> 1390.30] mighty to -[1390.30 --> 1392.30] you are -[1392.30 --> 1394.30] a love song -[1394.30 --> 1396.30] we'll sing -[1396.30 --> 1398.30] forever -[1398.30 --> 1400.30] loving before you -[1400.30 --> 1402.30] blessing your name -[1402.30 --> 1404.30] holy -[1404.30 --> 1406.30] holy -[1406.30 --> 1408.30] holy -[1408.30 --> 1410.30] lord God -[1410.30 --> 1412.30] almighty -[1412.30 --> 1414.30] worthy -[1414.30 --> 1416.30] is the lamb -[1416.30 --> 1418.30] who was slain -[1418.30 --> 1420.30] highest -[1420.30 --> 1422.30] praises -[1422.30 --> 1424.30] honor -[1424.30 --> 1426.30] and glory -[1426.30 --> 1428.30] be unto -[1428.30 --> 1430.30] your name -[1430.30 --> 1432.30] be unto -[1432.30 --> 1434.30] your name -[1434.30 --> 1436.30] be unto -[1436.30 --> 1438.30] your name -[1438.30 --> 1440.30] be unto -[1440.30 --> 1454.30] your name -[1454.30 --> 1456.30] be unto -[1456.30 --> 1458.30] your name -[1458.30 --> 1460.30] be unto -[1460.30 --> 1468.36] Be unto your name -[1468.36 --> 1470.44] You invite to be seated. -[1481.04 --> 1484.38] Good morning. My name is Brenda and I'm one of the deacons here at Emanuel. -[1484.94 --> 1489.32] We have the pleasure of continuing our worship with the giving of our gifts. -[1489.32 --> 1497.84] To the budget which covers the ministry and mission of our church and also our special offering today is for the Langley Food Bank. -[1497.84 --> 1508.16] The Langley Food Bank exists in our community to offer support and in tangible ways help for those who are in need. -[1508.82 --> 1518.52] And I get to say a great big thank you to this congregation, this church family, who once again stepped up in these last weeks. -[1518.52 --> 1525.48] And we were able to have our food bank drive and festival yesterday. -[1525.48 --> 1531.00] And you can see the results here. -[1531.00 --> 1537.00] We were able to pass out bags, grocery bags within our Murrayville community here. -[1537.00 --> 1541.96] And yesterday there was opportunity for people to bring those bags back. -[1541.96 --> 1552.32] We enjoyed pancake breakfast and sausages and some games and conversation with those in our community who came to join us yesterday. -[1552.32 --> 1554.84] So thank you. -[1554.84 --> 1555.84] Thank you. -[1555.84 --> 1561.64] On behalf of the deacons, thank you for helping us and for helping our community. -[1561.64 --> 1564.84] We pray that this will be a blessing. -[1564.84 --> 1571.84] I know that Josh from the Food Bank, when he comes to pick this up this week, will be overwhelmed once again by what has been gathered here. -[1571.84 --> 1576.36] Some questions sometimes have come up as to why we do this in July. -[1576.36 --> 1583.60] Because a lot of people are on holidays and would we get more support and more people participating in this. -[1583.60 --> 1594.60] And the simple answer to that has come directly from the Food Bank that July is the month that they receive the least amount of stuff. -[1594.60 --> 1603.60] And so we have, as deacons have decided, that we will, that continuing to do this in July is a benefit for our community. -[1603.60 --> 1626.60] So thank you for being a blessing. -[1626.60 --> 1656.58] Thank you. -[1656.60 --> 1673.60] I will proclaim -[1673.60 --> 1680.60] The glory of the risen Lord -[1680.60 --> 1685.60] Who once was slain -[1686.60 --> 1692.60] To reconcile men to God -[1692.60 --> 1697.60] Forever He will be -[1697.60 --> 1703.60] The Lamb upon the throne -[1703.60 --> 1709.60] And gladly bow my knee -[1709.60 --> 1714.60] And worship Him alone -[1714.60 --> 1720.60] Forever You will be -[1720.60 --> 1725.60] The Lamb upon the throne -[1725.60 --> 1731.60] I gladly bow my knee -[1731.60 --> 1737.60] And worship You alone -[1737.60 --> 1739.60] Or there be some love -[1739.60 --> 1744.60] Only oneeron P bridge -[1744.60 --> 1746.60] My heart is dying -[1746.60 --> 1748.60] The Lord for equal Familial -[1748.60 --> 1750.60] Die table -[1750.60 --> 1753.60] From alleœurs free -[1753.60 --> 1758.60] Then pray down and ما -[1758.60 --> 1759.60] Thank you. -[1788.60 --> 1818.58] Thank you. -[1818.60 --> 1848.58] Thank you. -[1848.60 --> 1878.58] Thank you. -[1878.58 --> 1880.58] Thank you. -[1908.58 --> 1909.58] Thank you. -[1909.58 --> 1910.58] God is awesome. -[1910.58 --> 1918.58] Before we pray this morning, Clem's mom passed away Friday. -[1918.58 --> 1948.58] -[1948.58 --> 1958.58] We want to continue to pray for Tanya Tessemaker, who most Sundays joins us here, and they are both dealing with cancer. -[1958.58 --> 1966.58] Also, we want to continue to pray for Clary's sister, who is also dealing with stuff. -[1966.58 --> 1976.58] What I want to do this morning before I pray is just recite one of my favorite songs, hymns, and I won't do the whole thing, just one of the first verses. -[1976.58 --> 1981.58] And that is, have thine own way, Lord, have thine own way. -[1981.58 --> 1984.58] You are the potter, and we are the clay. -[1984.58 --> 1987.58] Mold us and make us after your will. -[1987.58 --> 1989.58] While we are waiting, yielded and still. -[1989.58 --> 1991.58] While we are waiting, yielded and still. -[1991.58 --> 1997.58] And the part that's not a part of this song is, Lord, help us to be waiting, yielded and still. -[1997.58 --> 1999.58] That's a, that's a hard. -[1999.58 --> 2001.58] Join me in prayer, please. -[2001.58 --> 2005.58] Our Father in Heaven, Lord, thank you. -[2005.58 --> 2009.58] Lord, thank you for where we live, how we live. -[2009.58 --> 2011.58] Lord, thank you for new babies. -[2011.58 --> 2013.58] Thank you for marriages. -[2013.58 --> 2021.58] Lord, we pray for people who are dealing with, again today, the Molenkamps, Lord, with passing of Clemsum. -[2021.58 --> 2029.58] Lord, we also pray for everybody else who, in the last while, has had to deal with somebody's passing, Lord. -[2029.58 --> 2039.58] Lord, we pray will you give us grace, will you give us wisdom, will you give us insight, will you, will you help us to also reach out to people who are hurting that way. -[2039.58 --> 2046.58] Lord, and then we want to thank the people who are dealing with cancer or, or something other, health problem. -[2046.58 --> 2049.58] Lord, we pray for each one. -[2049.58 --> 2052.58] Lord, we pray for new parents. -[2052.58 --> 2055.58] We pray for parents that have children, have new children. -[2055.58 --> 2062.58] Lord, we pray will you help us as parents to raise those little ones, and the little ones tend to get bigger, Lord. -[2062.58 --> 2074.58] And we ask you also that, as adults, we may not only tell our kids what to do, but lead by example. -[2074.58 --> 2079.58] Lord, because they're, they're probably going to watch us more than they listen. -[2079.58 --> 2080.58] Lord, we pray for kids. -[2080.58 --> 2085.58] Lord, we pray for preschoolers who are now worshiping with their leaders. -[2085.58 --> 2089.58] Lord, we thank you for the praise team this morning and all mornings, Lord. -[2089.58 --> 2094.58] Lord, we thank you for anybody who does any kind of a role in this church. -[2094.58 --> 2096.58] We pray we bless them, Lord. -[2096.58 --> 2100.58] We pray will you be with us this summer as some take a break. -[2100.58 --> 2102.58] We pray will you be with teachers, Lord. -[2102.58 --> 2105.58] Give them an awesome break, and kids as well, Lord. -[2105.58 --> 2111.58] We pray for kids who are looking to go into a new grade next year, maybe even a new school. -[2111.58 --> 2120.58] And instead of being the little kids in the big school or the big kids in the little school, Lord, help them to do that transition. -[2120.58 --> 2129.58] Lord, we pray for older children who have, young adults who have gone off to college and back again for a while, -[2129.58 --> 2131.58] and are in the midst of their studies, Lord. -[2131.58 --> 2133.58] Will you help each one of them? -[2133.58 --> 2141.58] Thank you for all the opportunities, not only in school for education, but also for trips people have made or are making, Lord. -[2141.58 --> 2144.58] We pray will you be with people who travel. -[2144.58 --> 2152.58] We pray will you be with each of us, Lord, and all the things we are dealing with, some known, some unknown. -[2152.58 --> 2155.58] Lord, we ask you to help and guide us. -[2155.58 --> 2159.58] Lord, we live in a different world, Lord. -[2159.58 --> 2164.58] So many things going on, so many not good things, and yet you are in control. -[2164.58 --> 2168.58] We know that, but, Lord, it's something we just don't understand. -[2168.58 --> 2171.58] Help us to trust and obey, Lord. -[2171.58 --> 2175.58] Lord, this morning we ask for a blessing on Grant as he brings your word. -[2175.58 --> 2180.58] Will you help us to listen, to pay attention? -[2180.58 --> 2183.58] Will you give him your spirit? -[2183.58 --> 2191.58] Lord, will you help us to be part of that learning while we trust and obey? -[2191.58 --> 2193.58] Thank you in Jesus' name. Amen. -[2193.58 --> 2205.58] Amen. -[2205.58 --> 2214.58] What is the one area in your life where Satan could blow you out of the water? -[2214.58 --> 2224.58] This is a question my mentor, Martin Quintant, asked me every time as a pastor for the first five years after I started ministry. -[2224.58 --> 2227.58] Why did he ask a question like that? -[2227.58 --> 2231.58] Because sin is tricky. -[2231.58 --> 2239.58] Sin is tricky, and it has an incredible ability to blow our lives wide open. -[2239.58 --> 2244.58] And so, Scripture is very clear about sin and about life. -[2244.58 --> 2248.58] You'll either live in the light or you'll live in the dark. -[2248.58 --> 2253.58] Proverbs, you'll either be a fool or you'll live in the wisdom. -[2253.58 --> 2256.58] You'll be righteous or wicked. -[2256.58 --> 2259.58] God wants us to live in the light. -[2259.58 --> 2268.58] So today we're going to talk about one of the most incredible gifts that God gives a Christian community -[2268.58 --> 2271.58] and gives us personally the gift of accountability. -[2271.58 --> 2277.58] It's also one of the most difficult things because no one really loves accountability. -[2277.58 --> 2279.58] I remember doing some marriage counseling. -[2279.58 --> 2287.58] I was a pastor and we were talking about how, you know, sometimes you've got to call your spouse on stuff. -[2287.58 --> 2297.58] And invariably, one of the people we are counseling saying, well, I don't really like being called out on my stuff. -[2297.58 --> 2299.58] Yeah, well, duh. -[2299.58 --> 2300.58] No one does. -[2300.58 --> 2302.58] But that's accountability. -[2302.58 --> 2309.58] Accountability is the grace to be called on our stuff so that we can live in the light. -[2309.58 --> 2319.58] And so today we're going to look at a question, the very first question that God asks, where are you? -[2319.58 --> 2321.58] So we're going to look at that this morning. -[2321.58 --> 2327.58] And my hope today is not to smack you guys down with, oh, you should be better and you should be better people -[2327.58 --> 2332.58] and you shouldn't sin so much, but rather that you might hear the heart of God this morning. -[2332.58 --> 2339.58] That he is a God who wants us to have the life, but he also wants us to live in the light. -[2339.58 --> 2342.58] So let's open our Bibles this morning to Genesis 3. -[2342.58 --> 2346.58] I'll try to cruise along because it definitely isn't the coolest place. -[2346.58 --> 2350.58] I mean, it is cool, but it's not cool if you know what I mean. -[2350.58 --> 2353.58] So we will try to go at a pretty good clip. -[2353.58 --> 2358.58] It's kind of like you don't want to go too fast, but you don't also want to go too slow. -[2358.58 --> 2362.58] Because my kid's learning how to drive right now, so we were a little bit late to church. -[2362.58 --> 2366.58] So it's kind of like I want you to go fast, but I don't want to go too fast. -[2366.58 --> 2369.58] But we got here. Anyways, I digress. -[2369.58 --> 2374.58] Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. -[2374.58 --> 2380.58] And he said to the woman, did God really say you must not eat from any tree in the garden? -[2380.58 --> 2384.58] Well, the woman said to the serpent, we may eat from the trees in the garden, -[2384.58 --> 2388.58] but God did say you must not eat from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, -[2388.58 --> 2391.58] and you must not touch it or you will die. -[2391.58 --> 2394.58] You will not surely die, the serpent said to the woman. -[2394.58 --> 2398.58] Huh! For God knows that when you eat of it, your eyes will be opened, -[2398.58 --> 2401.58] and you will be like God, knowing good and evil. -[2401.58 --> 2406.58] Well, when the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, -[2406.58 --> 2410.58] and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. -[2410.58 --> 2414.58] She also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate it. -[2414.58 --> 2418.58] Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked. -[2418.58 --> 2422.58] So they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves. -[2422.58 --> 2425.58] Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God -[2425.58 --> 2428.58] as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, -[2428.58 --> 2431.58] and they hid from the Lord. -[2431.58 --> 2433.58] They hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden, -[2433.58 --> 2436.58] but the Lord God called to the man, -[2436.58 --> 2438.58] Where? Let's say it all together. -[2438.58 --> 2440.58] Where are you? -[2440.58 --> 2441.58] He answered, -[2441.58 --> 2445.58] Well, I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked, so I hid. -[2445.58 --> 2447.58] And he said, -[2447.58 --> 2448.58] Another question. -[2448.58 --> 2450.58] Who told you that you were naked? -[2450.58 --> 2453.58] Have you eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from? -[2453.58 --> 2455.58] That's the third question. -[2455.58 --> 2456.58] Well, the man said, -[2456.58 --> 2460.58] Well, the woman you put me here. -[2460.58 --> 2462.58] What a guy. -[2462.58 --> 2466.58] She gave me some fruit from the tree, and I ate it. -[2466.58 --> 2468.58] Well, then the Lord said to the woman, -[2468.58 --> 2470.58] What is this you've done? -[2470.58 --> 2471.58] The woman said, -[2471.58 --> 2473.58] Well, the serpent deceived me, and I ate. -[2473.58 --> 2475.58] So the Lord God said to the serpent, -[2475.58 --> 2477.58] Because you have done this, -[2477.58 --> 2480.58] Cursed are you above all livestock and all the wild animals. -[2480.58 --> 2481.58] You'll crawl on your belly. -[2481.58 --> 2484.58] You will eat dust all the days of your life. -[2484.58 --> 2486.58] I'll put enmity between you and the woman, -[2486.58 --> 2488.58] and between your offspring and hers. -[2488.58 --> 2491.58] He'll crush your head, and you will strike his heel. -[2491.58 --> 2492.58] To the woman he said, -[2492.58 --> 2495.58] I'll greatly increase your pains and childbearing. -[2495.58 --> 2497.58] With pain you'll give birth to children. -[2497.58 --> 2500.58] Your desire will be for your husband, and he'll rule over you. -[2500.58 --> 2501.58] And to Adam he said, -[2501.58 --> 2505.58] Because you listened to your wife and ate from the tree about which I commanded you, -[2505.58 --> 2507.58] You must not eat of it. -[2507.58 --> 2509.58] Cursed is the ground because of you. -[2509.58 --> 2513.58] Through painful toil you will eat of it all the days of your life. -[2513.58 --> 2517.58] It will produce thorns and thistles for you, and you will eat the plants of the field. -[2517.58 --> 2521.58] By the sweat of your brow you'll eat your food until you return to the ground. -[2521.58 --> 2526.58] Since from it you were taken, for dust you are, and to dust you will return. -[2526.58 --> 2528.58] This is where we're going to stop. -[2528.58 --> 2531.58] Now let's get over to James 5. -[2531.58 --> 2534.58] This is a letter for an early church. -[2535.58 --> 2538.58] And we'll read 13 to 20. -[2538.58 --> 2540.58] Is any of you in trouble? He should pray. -[2540.58 --> 2543.58] Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise. -[2543.58 --> 2545.58] Is anyone of you sick? He should call the elders of the church -[2545.58 --> 2549.58] To pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. -[2549.58 --> 2553.58] And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well. -[2553.58 --> 2556.58] The Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he'll be forgiven. -[2556.58 --> 2561.58] Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. -[2561.58 --> 2564.58] The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. -[2564.58 --> 2566.58] Elijah was a man just like us. -[2566.58 --> 2571.58] He prayed earnestly that it wouldn't rain, and it didn't rain on the land for three and a half years. -[2571.58 --> 2575.58] Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops. -[2575.58 --> 2580.58] My brothers, if one of you should wander from the truth, and someone should bring him back, remember this. -[2580.58 --> 2587.58] Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins. -[2587.58 --> 2591.58] This is the word of God for us this morning. Praise be to God. -[2591.58 --> 2597.58] So I want to make a little bit of a case for accountability this morning. -[2597.58 --> 2604.58] So you've just seen, and for many of us we've read the story so many times. -[2604.58 --> 2610.58] We've been reminded of the stark reality of sin in our lives. -[2610.58 --> 2613.58] And how it breaks everything. -[2613.58 --> 2617.58] In the first story it breaks the relationship with God. -[2617.58 --> 2621.58] And it breaks the relationship between man and woman. -[2621.58 --> 2623.58] Right? They start blaming each other. -[2623.58 --> 2627.58] And it also breaks the relationship that Adam and Eve would have with creation. -[2627.58 --> 2632.58] There would be toil, and thorns and thistles, and all that. -[2632.58 --> 2647.58] And what we remember is that when it comes to sin, no matter how big our sin is, big or small, sin results in incredible isolation, alienation, and shame. -[2647.58 --> 2655.58] We're going to have the elements this morning, the Lord's Supper, and we're reminded that Jesus came to save us from our sins. -[2655.58 --> 2660.58] So sin is a big deal. It's always been a big deal, no matter how much we poo-poo it, and oh, it's not that bad. -[2660.58 --> 2662.58] It's a big deal. It's the biggest deal. -[2662.58 --> 2665.58] Otherwise we wouldn't have needed a savior. -[2665.58 --> 2672.58] But when we look at this story, we see what happens to this first couple when they sin. -[2672.58 --> 2674.58] Almost instantaneously. -[2674.58 --> 2679.58] What happens? They sin, and all of a sudden they realize they're naked. -[2679.58 --> 2681.58] They make clothes. -[2681.58 --> 2683.58] They cover up. -[2683.58 --> 2686.58] Then what do they do? -[2686.58 --> 2688.58] They go hide away in the trees. -[2688.58 --> 2695.58] And so the first thing we see, or the big thing we see about sin, is that sin forces us under cover. -[2695.58 --> 2701.58] Now remember, one of the beauties of the garden, maybe the most beautiful thing, is that you could live out in the open. -[2701.58 --> 2703.58] You could bear all. -[2703.58 --> 2706.58] You know, as kids, we always used to remember, oh, they were naked. -[2706.58 --> 2708.58] It's funny they're naked. -[2708.58 --> 2711.58] Well, naked is also symbolic. -[2711.58 --> 2713.58] They could bear all. -[2713.58 --> 2714.58] They didn't have to hide. -[2714.58 --> 2716.58] They could be who they were. -[2716.58 --> 2720.58] No pretending, no masks, no cover-ups, no insecurities. -[2720.58 --> 2722.58] They could just be. -[2722.58 --> 2723.58] No shame. -[2723.58 --> 2724.58] It was amazing. -[2724.58 --> 2725.58] They could just be who they were. -[2725.58 --> 2728.58] And they could be who God designed them to be. -[2728.58 --> 2732.58] The first thing that comes, when sin comes, is they hide. -[2732.58 --> 2733.58] They cover up. -[2733.58 --> 2735.58] They layer up. -[2735.58 --> 2742.58] Now you're here today, probably, one of the reasons you're here today, because you know you need God. -[2742.58 --> 2744.58] You know you're a sinner. -[2744.58 --> 2747.58] You know you need the saving grace of God. -[2747.58 --> 2754.58] But what you should also know about sin is, sin and shame are inseparable. -[2754.58 --> 2759.58] And the more we sin, the more we hide. -[2759.58 --> 2763.58] And the more we hide, the less we become. -[2763.58 --> 2771.58] To the point that when all the layers keep coming on, the more we start unbecoming who God designed us to be. -[2771.58 --> 2774.58] I think of the great time traveler, Marty McFly. -[2774.58 --> 2776.58] Remember Marty McFly? -[2776.58 --> 2780.58] Now I'm going to probably reveal the plot here. -[2780.58 --> 2782.58] It's 40 years old, the movie. -[2782.58 --> 2783.58] So I don't feel bad. -[2783.58 --> 2789.58] If you haven't seen it yet, Marty McFly goes back into the future. -[2789.58 --> 2790.58] He goes back into the past. -[2790.58 --> 2793.58] He kind of messes up his parents' destiny. -[2793.58 --> 2796.58] And then he's got to kind of put everything back on the rails. -[2796.58 --> 2799.58] But the problem is, he's got to face a big bully. -[2799.58 --> 2801.58] He's got to orchestrate this whole thing. -[2801.58 --> 2803.58] And he's losing courage. -[2803.58 --> 2804.58] And remember, he has this picture. -[2804.58 --> 2807.58] And he's looking at this picture of his family. -[2807.58 --> 2813.58] And whenever his courage wanes and he feels like he can't pull this off, all the members of his family disappear. -[2813.58 --> 2821.58] But then, when he starts having courage to be able to put this thing back together, all the family members come back. -[2821.58 --> 2823.58] Right? They become. -[2823.58 --> 2825.58] This is what sin does. -[2825.58 --> 2828.58] Sin unbecomes us. -[2828.58 --> 2830.58] Sin steals our humanity. -[2830.58 --> 2832.58] It unravels us. -[2832.58 --> 2836.58] It takes away who God designs us to be. -[2836.58 --> 2840.58] And so the need for accountability. -[2840.58 --> 2846.58] We need the question, where are you? -[2846.58 --> 2848.58] Now isn't that interesting? -[2848.58 --> 2850.58] That's the first question that God asks. -[2850.58 --> 2852.58] Do you think God was perplexed? -[2852.58 --> 2854.58] Oh, I wonder where they were. -[2854.58 --> 2855.58] Where are those two people? -[2855.58 --> 2857.58] Only two people on the planet. -[2857.58 --> 2859.58] I created everything. -[2859.58 --> 2860.58] No. -[2860.58 --> 2861.58] God knows where they are. -[2861.58 --> 2863.58] This is a question of grace. -[2863.58 --> 2868.58] God wants them back in the open. -[2868.58 --> 2869.58] They open. -[2869.58 --> 2872.58] And so he says, hey. -[2872.58 --> 2874.58] He's coming to them. -[2874.58 --> 2876.58] Hey, where are you guys? -[2876.58 --> 2878.58] I want you back. -[2878.58 --> 2881.58] And so it's an awesome question to ask. -[2881.58 --> 2882.58] Where are you? -[2882.58 --> 2884.58] Where are you at? -[2884.58 --> 2887.58] Where are you at in your life? -[2887.58 --> 2889.58] Where are you at in your relationship with God? -[2889.58 --> 2892.58] Sometimes we ask, where are you at in your finances? -[2892.58 --> 2896.58] Sometimes we ask, where are you at with your steps? -[2896.58 --> 2900.58] We have stupid watches that even tell us to stand up now. -[2900.58 --> 2902.58] It's time to stand, you lazy blank. -[2902.58 --> 2908.58] Even our watches do that. -[2908.58 --> 2911.58] But the question is a question of grace. -[2911.58 --> 2915.58] It's an invitation to live out in the open. -[2915.58 --> 2918.58] It's an invitation to not live in the shadows. -[2918.58 --> 2919.58] Because let's face it. -[2919.58 --> 2922.58] Just because you're a Christian, that doesn't mean that you don't tamper. -[2922.58 --> 2924.58] That sin doesn't get you. -[2924.58 --> 2927.58] That sin doesn't get you in your clutches. -[2927.58 --> 2929.58] You hide things. -[2929.58 --> 2931.58] You live in the secret. -[2931.58 --> 2932.58] In the secrets. -[2932.58 --> 2938.58] And so the question of accountability, or the thing that this question gets to, -[2938.58 --> 2943.58] is the heart of God that says, people of God, I want you to live out in the open. -[2945.58 --> 2946.58] I don't want you pretending. -[2946.58 --> 2948.58] I don't want you in shame. -[2950.58 --> 2954.58] And so even for maybe some of you this morning, you're like, is it even possible? -[2954.58 --> 2955.58] Like, I got this secret. -[2955.58 --> 2957.58] I got this sin in my life. -[2957.58 --> 2958.58] Yes! -[2958.58 --> 2960.58] It's why Jesus came. -[2960.58 --> 2963.58] Oh, Jesus came only to bring us to heaven. -[2963.58 --> 2964.58] No! -[2964.58 --> 2966.58] Jesus came to give you life. -[2966.58 --> 2968.58] And life in the full. -[2968.58 --> 2970.58] John 8, 12. -[2970.58 --> 2973.58] I am the light of the world. -[2973.58 --> 2978.58] Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. -[2979.58 --> 2981.58] He wants us in the light. -[2981.58 --> 2983.58] Isn't that awesome? -[2983.58 --> 2984.58] Isn't that awesome? -[2984.58 --> 2987.58] So even today, you're like, man, I'm so stuck right now in my sin. -[2987.58 --> 2988.58] I don't know what to do. -[2988.58 --> 2990.58] I do this stupid thing over again. -[2990.58 --> 2993.58] Jesus says, okay. -[2993.58 --> 2994.58] Where are you at? -[2994.58 --> 2999.58] So, that's the case for accountability. -[2999.58 --> 3001.58] We want to live in the light. -[3001.58 --> 3003.58] What exactly is accountability? -[3003.58 --> 3007.58] Now, there's a couple definitions of what accountability is. -[3007.58 --> 3012.58] But ultimately, accountability is being answerable to someone else. -[3012.58 --> 3013.58] Okay? -[3013.58 --> 3016.58] So, you've heard this question before, if you're a married person probably. -[3016.58 --> 3019.58] Honey, where are we at with the MasterCard? -[3019.58 --> 3022.58] Hate that question. -[3022.58 --> 3023.58] Silence. -[3023.58 --> 3024.58] Silence. -[3024.58 --> 3030.58] Or, we ask our kids, where's your report card? -[3030.58 --> 3033.58] Now, as kids, we hid it under the waterbed mattress. -[3036.58 --> 3038.58] Or, your kids, where's your phone? -[3038.58 --> 3041.58] Because parents, you should be looking at their phones. -[3041.58 --> 3046.58] Sometimes in my house, it's my wife asks me, where did all the cinnamon buns go? -[3048.58 --> 3053.58] Ultimately, accountability is being answerable to someone. -[3053.58 --> 3056.58] To God, to a friend, to accountability partner. -[3060.58 --> 3062.58] Often, it creates tension. -[3063.58 --> 3067.58] Because you've got to, on your side, when you answer the question, -[3067.58 --> 3069.58] you've kind of got to lay yourself bare. -[3069.58 --> 3071.58] Or, you could lie, which isn't cool. -[3071.58 --> 3072.58] And that won't get you anywhere. -[3074.58 --> 3075.58] And so, yeah, it can be tense. -[3075.58 --> 3077.58] The MasterCard, that's overdue. -[3077.58 --> 3078.58] We should probably get caught up. -[3078.58 --> 3080.58] Ah, my report card, I think it's under the mattress. -[3080.58 --> 3083.58] And, well, the cinnamon buns, the dog ate those again. -[3087.58 --> 3091.58] But the reality is, with accountability, is, you've got to own up to the question. -[3095.58 --> 3099.58] Ultimately, accountability is the process and the commitment -[3099.58 --> 3102.58] of getting ourselves out in the open as much as we can. -[3102.58 --> 3106.58] This is what Paul says in 2 Corinthians 4.2. -[3106.58 --> 3111.58] Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways. -[3111.58 --> 3113.58] We don't use deception. -[3113.58 --> 3114.58] We don't live in that life anymore. -[3114.58 --> 3115.58] That's not the life. -[3115.58 --> 3116.58] That's the dark life. -[3116.58 --> 3118.58] We're called to the light life. -[3118.58 --> 3121.58] And so, we live out in the open as hard as that can be. -[3121.58 --> 3124.58] As hard as those questions can be. -[3124.58 --> 3129.58] And the more we live out in the open, the better we live and the more we flourish. -[3131.58 --> 3135.58] The alternative question is, what happens when we don't live with accountability? -[3136.58 --> 3137.58] So, I'll ask you this. -[3137.58 --> 3139.58] What happens when the government isn't held accountable? -[3139.58 --> 3144.58] You can mutter about yourselves. -[3144.58 --> 3145.58] About that one. -[3146.58 --> 3149.58] What happens when students in the classroom aren't held accountable? -[3149.58 --> 3152.58] You know, we have this debate right now in our province. -[3152.58 --> 3153.58] I don't know another. -[3153.58 --> 3156.58] But kids don't get grades until like grade 10. -[3156.58 --> 3160.58] And I was talking to a nursing professor at a school in British Columbia. -[3160.58 --> 3166.58] And she said, literally, when some of these kids are getting into the nursing school, -[3166.58 --> 3169.58] it's the first time that they can get a pass-fail grade. -[3169.58 --> 3172.58] Now, I don't know about you, but I kind of want to, if I may have a nurse, -[3172.58 --> 3175.58] I kind of want to know that they passed or failed something. -[3175.58 --> 3176.58] Right? -[3176.58 --> 3183.58] And this person said that there's almost a crisis of anxiety now for a lot of these people -[3183.58 --> 3188.58] who come into nursing school because they've never passed or had to pass or fail anything. -[3188.58 --> 3192.58] And she said, in some of these kids, it brings them to near suicide. -[3192.58 --> 3197.58] I mean, no life of accountability? -[3197.58 --> 3201.58] What happens when we don't hold ourselves financially accountable? -[3201.58 --> 3206.58] Then we end up on a Sands & Associates commercial or whatever that's called, right? -[3206.58 --> 3209.58] I mean, ultimately, you've got to pay the piper. -[3209.58 --> 3212.58] What happens when we don't hold our kids accountable? -[3212.58 --> 3217.58] Well, with all of those instances, everything goes to hell. -[3217.58 --> 3222.58] Now, remember the setting of our story. -[3222.58 --> 3223.58] It's a garden. -[3223.58 --> 3225.58] Who here is a gardener? -[3225.58 --> 3226.58] Anybody is a gardener here? -[3226.58 --> 3228.58] You like garden? -[3228.58 --> 3229.58] Yeah, yeah. -[3229.58 --> 3230.58] Oh, yes, you're a big gardener. -[3230.58 --> 3231.58] Yeah. -[3231.58 --> 3236.58] I, the other day, I left my hose out on the lawn for a week. -[3236.58 --> 3239.58] Not on, but like on and on. -[3239.58 --> 3240.58] It has a timer on it. -[3240.58 --> 3243.58] And then, you know what happened when I pulled the hose away? -[3243.58 --> 3247.58] There's a big line of death, right? -[3247.58 --> 3251.58] So a garden is all about light. -[3251.58 --> 3255.58] Most plants, the more light you give them, the better they do. -[3255.58 --> 3258.58] That's what accountability is. -[3258.58 --> 3263.58] Accountability, even in the case of the hose, where all the grass is now alive again because it got back into the light. -[3263.58 --> 3266.58] The whole point of accountability is you living in the light. -[3266.58 --> 3272.58] And so the question this morning for you, it's very personal. -[3272.58 --> 3274.58] I can ask it because I'm not your pastor. -[3274.58 --> 3276.58] Where are you? -[3276.58 --> 3278.58] Where are you in your life? -[3278.58 --> 3280.58] Where are you in your marriage? -[3280.58 --> 3282.58] Where are you in your sexuality? -[3282.58 --> 3286.58] Where are you with your secrets? -[3286.58 --> 3292.58] What are you hiding? -[3292.58 --> 3296.58] Now maybe it's something that happened to you as a child. -[3296.58 --> 3298.58] Or maybe it's a certain trauma that you had. -[3298.58 --> 3300.58] Or maybe it's a trauma you gave someone out and the guilt has you. -[3300.58 --> 3302.58] It grips you. -[3302.58 --> 3307.58] Do you know that you don't have to have that in your life anymore? -[3307.58 --> 3309.58] Do you know that's why Jesus came? -[3309.58 --> 3311.58] So that you could live in the light? -[3311.58 --> 3315.58] So that you could know the light and the life? -[3315.58 --> 3318.58] Maybe you're loneliness. -[3318.58 --> 3321.58] Maybe you're lonely and loneliness has you. -[3321.58 --> 3325.58] And you feel so stupid telling people, I feel lonely. -[3325.58 --> 3328.58] God wants us to live out in the open. -[3328.58 --> 3329.58] And the cross proves it. -[3329.58 --> 3331.58] You know, it's very interesting. -[3331.58 --> 3334.58] Adam and Eve, they go hide under the trees. -[3334.58 --> 3337.58] Jesus bears himself on a tree. -[3337.58 --> 3340.58] So that we could live out in the open. -[3340.58 --> 3343.58] So that we could live. -[3343.58 --> 3350.58] He became sin who knew no sin that we might become the righteousness of God. -[3350.58 --> 3354.58] So again, the case for accountability, what it is. -[3354.58 --> 3357.58] Now I'm going to land the plane here and hopefully we're not too hot. -[3357.58 --> 3359.58] What does Christian accountability look like? -[3359.58 --> 3364.58] So James says this. -[3364.58 --> 3369.58] Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. -[3369.58 --> 3373.58] First of all, and I don't have a PowerPoint, so just imagine it's there. -[3373.58 --> 3378.58] First of all, Christian accountability looks like being personally accountable. -[3382.58 --> 3384.58] As Reformed Christians, we talk a lot about grace. -[3384.58 --> 3385.58] Oh, it's all grace. -[3385.58 --> 3386.58] It's all grace. -[3386.58 --> 3387.58] It's all grace. -[3387.58 --> 3388.58] It is. -[3388.58 --> 3389.58] It's all grace. -[3389.58 --> 3392.58] But that doesn't mean it's cheap grace. -[3392.58 --> 3396.58] Christianity is about taking responsibility for your own faith. -[3396.58 --> 3398.58] Isn't that interesting? -[3398.58 --> 3400.58] God gives us the keys. -[3400.58 --> 3403.58] He says, he calls us to steward our own faith. -[3403.58 --> 3406.58] I remember talking to a guy one time when I was a pastor and he says, -[3406.58 --> 3407.58] Oh, I don't worry about faith. -[3407.58 --> 3409.58] My grandpa was a pastor. -[3409.58 --> 3411.58] Okay, cool. -[3411.58 --> 3412.58] I don't even know what to do with that. -[3412.58 --> 3413.58] Okay, see ya. -[3413.58 --> 3415.58] I don't know what to do with that. -[3415.58 --> 3420.58] It's not about your husband or your wife dragging you to church, praying for you. -[3420.58 --> 3422.58] It's not about your mom taking you to church. -[3422.58 --> 3427.58] At some point, if you confess in Jesus Christ, you become the steward of your faith. -[3427.58 --> 3431.58] And Paul says it in Ephesians. -[3431.58 --> 3432.58] Right? -[3432.58 --> 3435.58] He says, work out your salvation with fear and trembling. -[3437.58 --> 3439.58] James says, confess your sins. -[3439.58 --> 3441.58] Not someone else's sins. -[3441.58 --> 3442.58] That's gossip. -[3442.58 --> 3444.58] Confess your sins. -[3444.58 --> 3453.58] And so it's understanding that we have in our own hands our faith life. -[3453.58 --> 3457.58] Secondly, it looks like being communally accountable. -[3457.58 --> 3461.58] So as we see in this story, the sin was committed in community, really. -[3461.58 --> 3462.58] Oh, hey, you want some? -[3462.58 --> 3463.58] Okay. -[3463.58 --> 3468.58] Accountability works best in community. -[3468.58 --> 3472.58] After Adam and Eve, come the people of Israel. -[3472.58 --> 3474.58] Long time after, come the people of Israel. -[3474.58 --> 3476.58] And they have something called the law. -[3476.58 --> 3477.58] Right? -[3477.58 --> 3478.58] And people are confused. -[3478.58 --> 3479.58] Is the law good? -[3479.58 --> 3480.58] Is the law bad? -[3480.58 --> 3481.58] We're Christians. -[3481.58 --> 3482.58] Do we obey the law? -[3482.58 --> 3483.58] Is it good or it's bad? -[3483.58 --> 3484.58] It's good. -[3484.58 --> 3486.58] Because the law tells you where you are. -[3486.58 --> 3491.58] If you read the Ten Commandments, and if you realize everybody obeyed those things, -[3491.58 --> 3493.58] we live in a pretty good world. -[3493.58 --> 3495.58] And so the law is good. -[3495.58 --> 3497.58] The problem is, without the Spirit, we can't obey the law. -[3497.58 --> 3503.58] But in the Old Testament system, the law told everybody where they were. -[3503.58 --> 3504.58] Hey, you did that. -[3504.58 --> 3505.58] Oh yeah, I know I did that. -[3505.58 --> 3506.58] Sorry, pray for me. -[3506.58 --> 3507.58] Yes. -[3507.58 --> 3509.58] That's where the sacrificial system was. -[3509.58 --> 3516.58] You brought in little Lammy to the temple, put your hand on his head, and that accounted -[3516.58 --> 3517.58] for your sin. -[3517.58 --> 3519.58] Because your sin was a big deal. -[3519.58 --> 3522.58] But it was done in community. -[3522.58 --> 3525.58] And so, we do it in community. -[3525.58 --> 3531.58] And I think one of the simple ways to do accountability is just come to church on a Sunday morning. -[3531.58 --> 3533.58] There's just something about coming to church. -[3533.58 --> 3537.58] And realizing that you sit under someone else's authority. -[3537.58 --> 3544.58] Just coming, I remember so often as a pastor, if someone wouldn't come to church for a couple weeks, -[3544.58 --> 3548.58] and he'd be like, hey pastor, I want to know where I was the last couple weeks. -[3548.58 --> 3549.58] No. -[3549.58 --> 3554.58] But there was this innate desire to say, hey, this is where we were. -[3554.58 --> 3555.58] But this is where I am. -[3555.58 --> 3557.58] I think that's good, by the way. -[3557.58 --> 3558.58] That's good. -[3560.58 --> 3564.58] And I mean, you do know why people in our times don't go to church, right? -[3564.58 --> 3566.58] It's not schedule problems. -[3566.58 --> 3569.58] It's not, aw, they're all just a bunch of hypocrites. -[3569.58 --> 3570.58] It's accountability. -[3570.58 --> 3573.58] People don't want to be held accountable. -[3573.58 --> 3577.58] People are believing the gospel of, I am my own person. -[3577.58 --> 3579.58] And I make my own decisions. -[3579.58 --> 3581.58] And my right is my right. -[3581.58 --> 3583.58] And your right is your right. -[3583.58 --> 3585.58] They want to be held accountable. -[3585.58 --> 3589.58] So simply committing to church is accountability. -[3589.58 --> 3592.58] Secondly, though, it goes deeper. -[3592.58 --> 3597.58] To be in more intimate accountability relationships. -[3597.58 --> 3600.58] You do know that it was 12 guys that changed the world, right? -[3600.58 --> 3603.58] And when you read the gospels, -[3603.58 --> 3607.58] when you read the gospels, you see a lot of accountability going on. -[3607.58 --> 3610.58] Jesus is not afraid to rebuke the disciples. -[3610.58 --> 3617.58] And after Jesus leaves, these guys form a union, except for Judas, so 11 and then 12. -[3617.58 --> 3622.58] They form a union and they create a culture of accountability. -[3622.58 --> 3623.58] You even see it in the New Testament. -[3623.58 --> 3629.58] There's a time when Paul holds Peter accountable. -[3629.58 --> 3633.58] There's accountability, even in this small letter of James. -[3633.58 --> 3635.58] Confess your sins to each other. -[3635.58 --> 3636.58] Open up. -[3636.58 --> 3639.58] And so it's a small group thing too. -[3639.58 --> 3640.58] And I don't know if your church does small groups. -[3640.58 --> 3642.58] I know our church did it for a little while. -[3642.58 --> 3643.58] We struggled. -[3643.58 --> 3645.58] But the whole point is to have people in our lives to say, -[3645.58 --> 3647.58] Hey, where are you at? -[3647.58 --> 3649.58] How can I pray for you? -[3649.58 --> 3654.58] Lastly, lastly, so you'd be accountable to yourself. -[3654.58 --> 3656.58] Because you steward your faith. -[3656.58 --> 3658.58] You're accountable together. -[3658.58 --> 3659.58] So small groups is good. -[3659.58 --> 3661.58] Sign up if you have small groups. -[3661.58 --> 3664.58] But lastly, it's being accountable to God. -[3664.58 --> 3668.58] Are you open to the spirit working in your life? -[3668.58 --> 3671.58] Oh, I'm just so busy though. -[3671.58 --> 3673.58] So busy. -[3673.58 --> 3675.58] And I'd have people say to me, -[3675.58 --> 3677.58] Oh, I'm not a reader. -[3677.58 --> 3679.58] Oh, okay. -[3679.58 --> 3681.58] Well, that's a great excuse. -[3681.58 --> 3682.58] I'm not a reader. -[3682.58 --> 3683.58] No, it's not. -[3683.58 --> 3684.58] It's not a good excuse. -[3684.58 --> 3687.58] We're in relationship with God. -[3687.58 --> 3690.58] And so, do you know when the spirit speaks? -[3690.58 --> 3693.58] So for instance, when you're reading the Bible in the morning. -[3693.58 --> 3694.58] By the way, I like Dick's idea. -[3694.58 --> 3695.58] I do this every morning. -[3695.58 --> 3697.58] I have my Bible and my coffee every morning. -[3697.58 --> 3700.58] One thing I love and one thing that's really hard. -[3700.58 --> 3704.58] And I open the Bible and as soon as something jumps out of the page, -[3704.58 --> 3706.58] It's like, I think God spoke to me today. -[3706.58 --> 3708.58] I should probably do that. -[3708.58 --> 3710.58] Or if you're in a situation where you're like, -[3710.58 --> 3712.58] I just said something stupid. -[3712.58 --> 3714.58] That's probably the Holy Spirit speaking. -[3714.58 --> 3716.58] Or maybe your wife. -[3716.58 --> 3717.58] Right? -[3717.58 --> 3719.58] But are you open? -[3719.58 --> 3722.58] Are you open to the fact that God is with you? -[3722.58 --> 3724.58] And he's speaking all the time. -[3724.58 --> 3725.58] Through the radio station. -[3725.58 --> 3726.58] Through friends. -[3726.58 --> 3727.58] Through the preacher. -[3727.58 --> 3729.58] Through your devotional times. -[3729.58 --> 3731.58] And are you able to say, God, you're right? -[3733.58 --> 3735.58] So in close this morning, -[3737.58 --> 3739.58] Couple questions. -[3739.58 --> 3740.58] That you can go home with. -[3740.58 --> 3743.58] Maybe have lunch and talk about it with your friends or whatever. -[3743.58 --> 3748.58] Are you at this moment in your life living more in the light? -[3748.58 --> 3750.58] Or more in the dark? -[3754.58 --> 3759.58] Who is one person in your life you feel like you can be totally open with? -[3759.58 --> 3762.58] And, -[3762.58 --> 3768.58] How can you make your church a place of openness and accountability? -[3769.58 --> 3771.58] Will you join with me in prayer? -[3773.58 --> 3775.58] God, we thank you so much for your grace. -[3778.58 --> 3780.58] And we have this picture, Lord. -[3780.58 --> 3790.58] We're reminded of this picture that these two people, our forerunners, our oldest parents. -[3791.58 --> 3795.58] They sin, they cover up, and they hide. -[3796.58 --> 3799.58] And we have the picture of a cross of a Savior who is naked. -[3799.58 --> 3804.58] And all out in the open on a rugged cross. -[3807.58 --> 3813.58] So that we too might live out in the open and know your love and your life and your light. -[3814.58 --> 3817.58] All of us in this room struggle, Lord. -[3817.58 --> 3818.58] We struggle with our sin. -[3819.58 --> 3820.58] We struggle with shame. -[3820.58 --> 3834.58] And we ask, Lord, by your Spirit that you might help us and call us to a place where we can have a friend in our life or a pastor or something so that we too can live in such a place where we can live with life and light. -[3835.58 --> 3836.58] We thank you, Lord. -[3837.58 --> 3838.58] In your name. -[3839.58 --> 3840.58] Amen. -[3840.58 --> 3841.58] Amen. -[3841.58 --> 3842.58] Amen. -[3842.58 --> 3843.58] Amen. -[3843.58 --> 3844.58] Amen. -[3846.58 --> 3847.58] Turn a little pitch. -[3848.58 --> 3849.58] Amen. -[3849.58 --> 3850.58] Amen. -[3850.58 --> 3852.58] Amen. -[3852.58 --> 3854.58] Amen. -[3854.58 --> 3855.58] Amen. -[3855.58 --> 3857.58] Amen. -[3857.58 --> 3861.58] Amen. -[3861.58 --> 3864.58] Amen. -[3864.58 --> 3865.58] Amen. -[3865.58 --> 3866.58] Amen. -[3866.58 --> 3869.58] Amen. -[3869.58 --> 3870.58] Amen. -[3870.58 --> 3874.26] whether it's lunch, whether it's a donut from Tim Hortons, -[3874.28 --> 3875.14] which is my preference, -[3876.36 --> 3878.88] whenever you sit down and eat with someone, -[3878.98 --> 3881.08] you're telling them one profound thing. -[3882.08 --> 3884.00] I want you to live. -[3885.58 --> 3887.00] Now, I think it's kind of cool today. -[3887.66 --> 3889.88] I've been tempted to look through a couple of these bags -[3889.88 --> 3891.36] to see what kind of snacks we have. -[3892.24 --> 3895.32] But I think it's very cool that your church is communicating -[3895.32 --> 3898.32] to your culture and to your community -[3898.32 --> 3900.56] that you very much want them to live. -[3900.58 --> 3904.30] Well, that's what this meal is all about. -[3906.68 --> 3908.78] You know, when the disciples came with Jesus -[3908.78 --> 3912.00] and they sat down to the last meal, -[3912.16 --> 3913.98] remember, they were thinking revolution, right? -[3914.36 --> 3917.10] They were thinking, this guy's going to be the king -[3917.10 --> 3918.60] who's going to topple the empire. -[3920.68 --> 3922.18] So they were ready for conquest. -[3922.42 --> 3923.68] They were so excited. -[3924.72 --> 3927.00] But Jesus didn't want them just to have that life. -[3927.10 --> 3929.82] He wanted them to have the real life, the true life. -[3930.58 --> 3932.52] And what he was about to go through -[3932.52 --> 3934.08] was going to make sure that happened. -[3935.46 --> 3937.46] And so on the night that Jesus was betrayed, -[3937.60 --> 3938.68] he took bread. -[3939.98 --> 3941.60] And after he had given thanks, -[3941.66 --> 3942.82] which always blows my mind, -[3942.88 --> 3944.14] he knows he's about to go die, -[3944.60 --> 3946.02] but after he had given thanks, -[3946.10 --> 3947.02] he broke it and said, -[3947.12 --> 3948.66] this is my body which is for you. -[3948.66 --> 3956.00] And then he took what was then wine, -[3956.16 --> 3957.76] which this is probably grape juice, -[3958.12 --> 3959.86] and then he took the cup, -[3960.82 --> 3961.98] and he said, -[3962.22 --> 3962.84] this is the cup -[3962.84 --> 3967.68] that signifies the new covenant in my blood. -[3970.08 --> 3970.66] He says, -[3970.66 --> 3979.62] And so, -[3979.62 --> 3981.98] as you come up -[3981.98 --> 3983.36] and you receive the elements, -[3984.80 --> 3985.74] may you remember -[3985.74 --> 3988.76] that God is the one -[3988.76 --> 3989.64] who wants you to live, -[3990.46 --> 3991.36] really live. -[3992.84 --> 3994.06] How cool is that? -[3994.06 --> 3997.88] Let's come up -[3997.88 --> 3999.24] and have Lord's Supper together. -[3999.24 --> 4000.24] Let's go. -[4021.24 --> 4021.60] Oops, -[4021.80 --> 4022.24] wrong one. -[4024.54 --> 4025.66] How do I just give it to you? -[4027.54 --> 4027.92] Sure. -[4027.92 --> 4029.64] And then do I give it that one too? -[4029.78 --> 4031.08] There's also gluten-free here. -[4031.68 --> 4032.90] And then I pass it this way -[4032.90 --> 4033.44] for you guys. -[4034.08 --> 4035.16] This is the body of Christ -[4035.16 --> 4036.34] broken for you -[4036.34 --> 4037.68] for the forgiveness of your sins. -[4037.82 --> 4038.10] Take, -[4038.52 --> 4038.72] eat, -[4038.86 --> 4039.12] remember, -[4039.18 --> 4039.58] and believe. -[4039.68 --> 4040.02] Go ahead. -[4047.24 --> 4047.60] Okay. -[4047.60 --> 4047.72] Okay. -[4048.22 --> 4048.38] Okay. -[4057.92 --> 4068.80] I can take that. -[4074.48 --> 4075.62] The body of Christ -[4075.62 --> 4076.28] shed for you. -[4077.00 --> 4077.24] Take, -[4077.44 --> 4077.58] eat, -[4077.64 --> 4078.02] and believe. -[4078.02 --> 4091.88] the blood of Christ. -[4108.02 --> 4130.18] This is the blood of Christ poured out for you. -[4130.82 --> 4133.94] Take, drink, remember, and believe. -[4133.94 --> 4134.40] Go ahead. -[4138.02 --> 4145.92] You may go in peace. -[4145.92 --> 4153.82] Go ahead. -[4153.82 --> 4161.72] Go ahead. -[4161.72 --> 4169.62] Go ahead. -[4169.62 --> 4177.52] Go ahead. -[4177.52 --> 4185.42] Go ahead. -[4185.42 --> 4187.42] Go ahead. -[4187.42 --> 4195.32] Go ahead. -[4195.32 --> 4203.22] Go ahead. -[4203.22 --> 4213.12] Go ahead. -[4213.12 --> 4215.12] Go ahead. -[4215.12 --> 4225.02] Go ahead. -[4225.02 --> 4227.02] Go ahead. -[4227.02 --> 4229.02] Go ahead. -[4229.02 --> 4238.92] Go ahead. -[4238.92 --> 4246.82] Go ahead. -[4246.82 --> 4254.72] Go ahead. -[4254.72 --> 4262.62] Go ahead. -[4262.62 --> 4264.62] Go ahead. -[4264.62 --> 4266.52] Go ahead. -[4266.52 --> 4272.52] Go ahead. -[4272.52 --> 4274.42] Go ahead. -[4274.42 --> 4280.42] Go ahead. -[4280.42 --> 4282.32] Go ahead. -[4282.32 --> 4284.32] Go ahead. -[4284.32 --> 4288.32] Go ahead. -[4288.32 --> 4298.22] Go ahead. -[4298.22 --> 4300.12] Go ahead. -[4300.12 --> 4302.12] пока. -[4302.12 --> 4305.44] To hide His face -[4305.44 --> 4311.48] I rest on His unchanging grace -[4311.48 --> 4317.72] In every hide and stormy hail -[4317.72 --> 4322.88] My anchor holds again the veil -[4322.88 --> 4329.04] My anchor holds again the veil -[4329.04 --> 4338.08] Christ alone, cornerstone -[4338.08 --> 4341.18] Weak made strong -[4341.18 --> 4344.24] Through the Savior's come -[4344.24 --> 4347.14] Through the storm -[4347.14 --> 4354.44] He is Lord, Lord of all -[4354.44 --> 4363.48] When the door shall come with trumpet sound -[4363.48 --> 4369.34] Oh, may I then in Him be found -[4369.34 --> 4375.58] Rest in His righteousness alone -[4375.58 --> 4381.62] Of this stand before the throne -[4381.62 --> 4390.66] Christ alone, cornerstone -[4390.66 --> 4399.70] Christ alone, cornerstone -[4399.70 --> 4403.70] Weak made strong -[4403.70 --> 4404.98] In the Savior's love -[4404.98 --> 4411.70] Christ alone, cornerstone -[4411.70 --> 4412.74] Weak made strong -[4412.74 --> 4415.74] Weak made strong -[4415.74 --> 4418.96] In the Savior's love -[4418.96 --> 4421.74] Through the storm -[4421.74 --> 4428.74] He is Lord, Lord of all -[4428.74 --> 4435.74] Christ alone, cornerstone -[4435.74 --> 4436.78] Weak made strong -[4436.78 --> 4438.78] Weak made strong -[4438.78 --> 4439.78] Weak made strong -[4439.78 --> 4441.78] In the Savior's love -[4441.78 --> 4444.78] Through the storm -[4444.78 --> 4451.78] He is Lord, Lord of all -[4451.78 --> 4460.82] He is Lord, Lord of all -[4460.82 --> 4463.82] He is Lord, Lord of all -[4463.82 --> 4493.80] Thank you. -[4493.82 --> 4514.70] Your only Son, no sin to hide, but you have sent Him from your side to walk upon this guilty song and to become the Lamb of God. -[4514.70 --> 4523.70] O Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God, I love the Holy Lamb of God. -[4523.70 --> 4534.08] O wash me in His precious blood, my Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. -[4534.08 --> 4564.08] -[4564.08 --> 4575.08] O wash me in His precious blood, my Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. -[4575.08 --> 4597.08] I was so lost, I should have died, but you have brought me to your side to be led by your staff and brought, and to be called the Lamb of God. -[4597.08 --> 4607.28] O Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God, I love the Holy Lamb of God. -[4607.28 --> 4616.72] O wash me in His precious blood, my Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. -[4616.72 --> 4626.40] O Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God, I love the Holy Lamb of God. -[4626.40 --> 4636.40] O wash me in His precious blood, my Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. -[4636.40 --> 4643.40] O wash me in His precious blood, my God. -[4643.40 --> 4647.40] O wash me in His precious blood, my God. -[4647.40 --> 4653.40] O wash me in His precious blood, my God. -[4653.40 --> 4670.40] O wash me in His precious blood, my God. -[4670.40 --> 4674.40] O wash me in His precious blood, my God. -[4674.40 --> 4678.40] O wash me in His precious blood, my God. -[4678.40 --> 4700.40] O wash me in His wise blood, my P clothing, my God. -[4700.40 --> 4722.16] How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful is the body of Christ. -[4722.16 --> 4739.16] How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful the heart that fled, that took all my sin and bore it instead. -[4739.16 --> 4752.16] How beautiful, how beautiful the tender eyes that chose to forgive and never despise. -[4752.16 --> 4774.88] How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful is the body of Christ. -[4774.88 --> 4786.88] And as He laid down His life, we offer this sacrifice. -[4788.08 --> 4799.16] That we will live just as He died, willing to pay the price. -[4799.16 --> 4805.16] Willing to pay the price. -[4808.16 --> 4821.16] How beautiful, the rage and pride, who waits for her groom with His light in her eyes. -[4821.16 --> 4828.38] How beautiful, the new Lord's ear. -[4828.90 --> 4834.48] The fruit of your eyes, so that others may live. -[4834.48 --> 4855.48] How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful is the body of Christ. -[4855.48 --> 4869.26] How beautiful, the heat that bring, the sound of good news and the love of the King. -[4869.26 --> 4876.26] How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful. -[4876.26 --> 4890.26] How beautiful, how beautiful. -[4890.26 --> 4903.26] How beautiful, how beautiful is the body of Christ. -[4903.26 --> 4905.92] Praise the name. -[4905.92 --> 4906.92] I'm God. -[4906.92 --> 4907.92] You're a great friend. -[4907.92 --> 4909.92] I'm going to pray. -[4909.92 --> 4910.92] I'm going to pray. -[4910.92 --> 4911.92] We're going to pray. -[4911.92 --> 4912.92] Take me. -[4912.92 --> 4914.92] Tara, we're going to go again. -[4914.92 --> 4916.92] Amen. -[4944.92 --> 4946.92] Amen. -[4946.92 --> 4948.92] Amen. -[4948.92 --> 4950.92] Amen. -[4950.92 --> 4952.92] Amen. -[4952.92 --> 4954.92] Amen. -[4954.92 --> 4956.92] Amen. -[4956.92 --> 4958.92] Amen. -[4958.92 --> 4960.92] Amen. -[4960.92 --> 4973.92] I cast my mind to Calvary, where Jesus blessed and died for me. -[4973.92 --> 4989.92] I see His wounds, His hands, His feet, my Savior on that cursed tree. -[4989.92 --> 5003.92] His body bound and drenched in tears, they laid Him down in Joseph's tomb. -[5003.92 --> 5017.92] The entrance sealed by heavy stone, Messiah still and all alone. -[5017.92 --> 5019.92] Amen. -[5019.92 --> 5026.92] Oh, praise the name of the Lord our God. -[5026.92 --> 5032.92] Oh, praise His name forevermore. -[5032.92 --> 5039.92] For endless days we will sing Your praise. -[5039.92 --> 5045.92] Oh, Lord, oh, Lord our God. -[5045.92 --> 5046.92] Amen. -[5046.92 --> 5048.92] Amen. -[5048.92 --> 5060.92] Then on the third, at break of dawn, the Son of Heaven rose again. -[5060.92 --> 5067.92] Oh, Trapped of Death, where is your sting? -[5067.92 --> 5073.92] The angels roar for Christ the King. -[5073.92 --> 5083.92] Oh, praise the name of the Lord our God. -[5083.92 --> 5089.92] Oh, praise His name forevermore. -[5089.92 --> 5096.92] For endless days we will sing Your praise. -[5096.92 --> 5102.92] Oh, Lord, oh, Lord our God. -[5102.92 --> 5105.92] Oh, praise His name forevermore. -[5105.92 --> 5111.92] We shall return in robes of wine. -[5111.92 --> 5117.92] The blazing sun shall pierce the night. -[5117.92 --> 5123.92] And I will rise among the saints, -[5123.92 --> 5131.32] my gaze transfixed on Jesus' face. -[5153.92 --> 5171.92] O praise the name of the Lord our God, O praise His name forevermore. -[5171.92 --> 5182.92] For endless days we will sing Your praise, O Lord, O Lord our God. -[5183.92 --> 5195.92] O praise the name of the Lord our God, O praise His name forevermore. -[5195.92 --> 5206.92] For endless days we will sing Your praise, O Lord, O Lord our God. -[5207.92 --> 5212.92] O Lord, O Lord our God. -[5213.92 --> 5219.92] O Lord, O Lord our God. -[5219.92 --> 5233.92] And now may a dying Savior's love, a risen Savior's power, an ascended Savior's prayer, and a returning Savior's glory be with you and all whom you hold dear. -[5234.92 --> 5235.92] Go in peace. Amen. -[5235.92 --> 5237.92] Amen. -[5237.92 --> 5265.24] Now unto the King eternal, unto the King immortal, unto the King immortal. -[5265.24 --> 5284.24] The only wise God, the only wise God. -[5284.24 --> 5304.24] The only wise God, the only wise God. -[5304.24 --> 5319.24] invisible the only wise God the only wise God -[5319.24 --> 5334.24] Oh unto the King be glory and honor unto the King forever -[5334.24 --> 5344.24] unto the King be glory and honor forever -[5344.24 --> 5351.24] and ever -[5351.24 --> 5355.24] Amen -[5355.24 --> 5359.24] Amen -[5359.24 --> 5363.24] Amen -[5363.24 --> 5365.24] Amen -[5374.24 --> 5385.24] Amen -[5385.24 --> 5387.24] Amen -[5387.24 --> 5417.22] Thank you. -[5417.24 --> 5447.22] Thank you. -[5447.24 --> 5477.22] Thank you. -[5477.24 --> 5479.24] Thank you. -[5507.24 --> 5509.24] Thank you. -[5537.24 --> 5539.24] Thank you. -[5567.24 --> 5569.24] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, July 14, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, July 14, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 28e52489fa5b8bf4cee4d609034687aa284cfa61..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, July 14, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,82 +0,0 @@ -• God's kindness and mercy pursue the speaker -• The speaker will sing despite death -• God is the speaker's armor and covering -• Whatever comes against the speaker, God covers them -• The speaker is safe under God's wings -• God gives the speaker everything they need -• Trust in God even when it hurts -• The pastor is away and Todd Statham from UBCO introduces himself. -• Introduction to a praise by the pond event on July 28th at 7pm at the Denhans place. -• Invitation for attendees to bring a chair and a treat to share. -• Greeting from the book of Revelation, calling everyone to greet their neighbors with words of grace and peace. -• Call to worship based on Psalm 98, encouraging people to shout for joy to the Lord. -• Singing of hymns, including "Holy is the Lord God Almighty" and "The earth is filled with its glory". -• Worship service -• Bible verses (Matthew 12:34-36, Matthew 11:28-30) -• The heart and what it speaks -• Resting in God and learning from Him -• Forgiveness and acceptance through Jesus' sacrifice -• Amazing Love song lyrics -• Worship song lyrics -• Collection and distribution of food for the Langley Food Bank -• The importance of showing mercy, compassion, and forgiveness to those in need -• The role of the church in serving the poor and vulnerable -• A call to invest time, energy, and money in serving others -• Prayer for summer and appreciation of creation -• Acknowledgment of needs in the world, such as poverty, homelessness, and environmental damage -• Confession of being blind to these needs and focusing on oneself -• Request for forgiveness and prompting to do one's part to help those in need -• Gratitude for a community food drive and community support -• Prayer for leaders and guidance -• Prayer for personal and family concerns, including health issues and losses -• Prayer for specific individuals going through challenging times -• Congratulations are given for several upcoming and recent events, including weddings, a 50th anniversary, and Ethan and Paige's marriage. -• The congregation is prayed for, asking God to be with them and guide their teachings and interactions. -• Pastor Todd Statham introduces himself as a Christian reform pastor and missionary at the University of British Columbia's campus in the Okanagan. -• He thanks the congregation for supporting his work through classical ministry shares and secondary offerings. -• He discusses his role on campus, spending time with students and professors to share faith and challenge existing beliefs. -• He highlights two exciting developments: expanding the campus ministry to the local community college and teaching a UBC course on the Bible. -• He expresses gratitude for the congregation's support and requests prayers for the challenges he faces on campus. -• A story from Acts 8 about an Ethiopian eunuch who becomes a follower of Jesus -• The eunuch, a high-ranking official in the queen's treasury, is reading Isaiah and asks Philip to explain it -• Philip explains that the passage is about Jesus and leads the eunuch to faith and baptism -• The story highlights the early church's mission to share the gospel with people from different cultures and backgrounds -• The eunuch was a black African, making him one of the first recorded non-Jewish converts to Christianity -• The story emphasizes the importance of sharing one's faith with others and being Christ's ambassadors in the world -• Christian Reformed Church members may feel uncomfortable sharing their faith -• Common objections to sharing faith include feeling awkward or unsure of what to say -• God has called Christians to share their faith, even in an increasingly post-Christian world -• The story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8 demonstrates that sharing faith often requires stepping out of one's comfort zone -• It is okay for Christians to feel uncomfortable when sharing their faith, as it is a normal part of obeying God's call -• The comfort and confidence that comes from knowing God is present in uncomfortable conversations -• The idea that God calls us into these conversations and has a role in them -• The story of Acts 8:26-40 as an example of God's presence in conversation, specifically the encounter between Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch -• The importance of sharing faith with others, even when it feels awkward or uncomfortable -• The power of questions in facilitating genuine conversations about faith -• The role of God's providence in bringing people together for spiritual conversations -• The comfort and confidence that comes from trusting in God's presence and guidance in these conversations -• The importance of having the right question over the right answer in sharing faith -• The story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch, where questions are used to build a relationship and share faith -• The role of questions in a good conversation about faith -• How questions can be used by God to comfort and challenge people -• Examples of simple yet powerful questions that invite response, such as "Who do you think Jesus is?" or "Would you like me to pray for you?" -• The idea that questions can clear away clutter and get to the heart of what really matters in sharing faith -• The cultural context of a post-Christian world where people are often hostile to faith due to misinformation -• Justin Martyr's example from the second century of writing an apology (defense) of Christianity to clarify its teachings and beliefs in response to criticisms -• The importance of asking questions to declutter misconceptions and allow for genuine conversations about faith, as seen in both ancient and modern contexts -• A personal anecdote about a young woman being misinformed about Christians and the need to correct these misconceptions -• The example of Philip's interactions with the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts, highlighting the value of listening and asking questions to engage with an individual's unique story and concerns -• The effectiveness of starting conversations with genuine interest and asking open-ended questions rather than leading questions or assumptions. -• The importance of sharing one's faith with others -• The fear of not having all the right answers can hinder sharing faith -• Listening carefully and asking questions is a more effective way to share faith -• Questions are essential for clearing misunderstandings and building relationships -• An anecdote about Christian-Muslim conversations highlights the power of asking questions in sharing faith -• Seeds were planted in a Muslim student's heart through quiet, respectful conversation and questioning -• Praise to God's faithfulness, mercy, and love -• Morning mercies and provision from God -• Strength for today and hope for tomorrow -• Blessings and gratitude to God -• Scripture readings from 2 Thessalonians and the Bible -• Jesus Christ's sacrifice for the world -• Worship and praise to God, with repetition of themes \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, July 14, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, July 14, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 4fe08eb780c92b1f32689146219abe8ed55dc6c9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, July 14, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1086 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 10.86] Here's my heart, Lord, take and seal it, seal it for the courts above. -[13.52 --> 24.08] How your kindness yet pursues me, how your mercy never fails me. -[24.08 --> 34.08] Till the day that death shall lose me, I will sing, oh, I will sing. -[34.94 --> 45.26] How your kindness yet pursues me, how your mercy never fails me. -[45.26 --> 55.54] Till the day that death shall lose me, I will sing, oh, I will sing. -[55.54 --> 67.14] Till the day that death shall lose me, I will sing, oh, I will sing. -[67.14 --> 77.14] Till the day that death shall lose me, I will sing. -[77.14 --> 94.42] Here's my heart, Lord, take and seal it, seal it for the courts above. -[95.80 --> 105.18] Here's my heart, Lord, take and seal it, seal it for the courts above. -[105.18 --> 106.16] Testing one, two, three. -[106.24 --> 106.60] Good morning. -[107.14 --> 116.42] When 10,000 arrows take flight -[116.42 --> 119.54] Remind me that you are my armor -[119.54 --> 122.72] There's always a place I can hide -[122.72 --> 125.96] When I am desperate for shelter -[125.96 --> 130.52] You're my covering -[130.52 --> 134.66] I'm saying -[134.66 --> 138.40] I'm saying -[138.40 --> 144.00] Whatever comes at me -[144.00 --> 147.28] I'm saying -[147.28 --> 150.54] I'm saying -[150.54 --> 154.00] You've got me under your wings -[154.00 --> 155.58] Under your wings -[155.58 --> 157.98] I'm under, I'm under your wings -[157.98 --> 160.24] You've got me, you cover me -[160.24 --> 161.84] You cover me -[161.84 --> 164.34] I'm under, I'm under your wings -[164.34 --> 167.02] With every step that I take -[167.02 --> 170.40] You are before and behind me -[170.40 --> 173.74] And every fear that I face -[173.74 --> 176.58] I'm constantly finding -[176.58 --> 181.08] You're my covering -[181.08 --> 182.82] I'm saying -[182.82 --> 184.82] I'm saying -[184.82 --> 188.82] I'm saying -[188.82 --> 194.66] Whatever comes at me -[194.66 --> 197.54] I'm saying -[197.54 --> 200.82] I'm saying -[200.82 --> 204.52] You've got me under your wings -[204.52 --> 206.10] Under your wings -[206.10 --> 208.50] I'm under, I'm under your wings -[208.50 --> 212.72] You're my covering -[213.00 --> 213.24] I'm saying -[213.24 --> 214.88] You've got me -[214.88 --> 215.48] You cover me -[215.48 --> 220.84] You're my covering -[220.84 --> 222.66] You cover me -[222.66 --> 227.66] You cover me, you cover me, I'm under, I'm under your wings. -[228.62 --> 231.54] You're my covering. -[233.62 --> 239.54] I'm safe, I'm safe. -[239.54 --> 251.54] Whatever comes at me, I'm safe, I'm safe. -[252.66 --> 255.66] I'm safe, I'm safe. -[257.66 --> 260.66] I'm safe. -[262.66 --> 266.66] I'm safe, I'm safe. -[267.66 --> 271.66] I'm safe, I'm safe. -[271.66 --> 278.66] Even the sparrow -[278.66 --> 284.12] has a place to lay it set -[284.12 --> 290.66] so why would I let worries steal my bread -[290.66 --> 294.32] even the roses -[294.32 --> 300.82] you have clothed in brilliant red -[300.82 --> 307.92] still I'm the one you love more than this -[307.92 --> 311.32] you give me everything -[311.32 --> 315.40] you give me everything -[315.40 --> 320.50] you give me everything -[320.50 --> 323.44] I need -[337.92 --> 343.32] even the oceans -[343.32 --> 348.92] push and pull at your command -[348.92 --> 353.32] so you can steal my heart -[353.32 --> 355.32] with your head -[355.32 --> 359.72] you tell the seasons -[359.72 --> 365.60] when it's time for them to turn -[365.60 --> 371.72] so I will trust you even when it hurts -[371.72 --> 377.12] you give me everything -[377.12 --> 380.56] you give me everything -[380.56 --> 385.56] you give me everything -[385.56 --> 392.96] you give me everything -[392.96 --> 396.84] you give me everything -[396.84 --> 401.84] you give me everything -[401.84 --> 406.68] you give me everything -[406.68 --> 409.22] when I can't see you lead me -[409.22 --> 413.30] when I can't hear you show me -[413.30 --> 418.74] when I can't stand you carry me -[418.74 --> 426.14] When I'm lost, you will find me. -[426.86 --> 429.90] When I'm with you, I'm mighty. -[431.00 --> 438.02] You are everything I need. -[438.82 --> 441.48] You give me everything. -[442.64 --> 445.66] You give me everything. -[445.66 --> 454.22] You give me everything I need. -[454.40 --> 457.86] You give me everything. -[458.86 --> 461.82] You give me everything. -[463.02 --> 469.92] You give me everything I need. -[469.92 --> 474.48] You give me everything. -[474.48 --> 483.04] You give me everything. -[483.04 --> 483.22] You give me everything. -[483.22 --> 491.78] You give me everything. -[491.78 --> 493.96] You give me everything. -[493.96 --> 497.96] You give me everything. -[497.96 --> 502.52] You give me everything. -[506.52 --> 506.56] You give me everything. -[506.56 --> 509.32] You give me everything. -[509.32 --> 510.78] You give me everything. -[510.78 --> 514.74] You give me everything. -[514.74 --> 544.72] Thank you. -[544.74 --> 574.72] Thank you. -[574.74 --> 604.72] Thank you. -[604.74 --> 606.74] Thank you. -[634.74 --> 636.74] Thank you. -[664.74 --> 666.74] Thank you. -[694.74 --> 696.74] Thank you. -[724.74 --> 726.74] Thank you. -[754.74 --> 756.74] Thank you. -[784.74 --> 786.74] Thank you. -[814.74 --> 816.74] Thank you. -[816.74 --> 820.74] Thank you. -[820.74 --> 822.74] Thank you. -[822.74 --> 824.74] Thank you. -[824.74 --> 832.74] Thank you. -[836.74 --> 838.74] Thank you. -[838.74 --> 847.08] This goes for your glory. -[847.08 --> 851.90] Your honor to your strength. -[851.90 --> 861.36] And if you like your glory you will be the first resource to craft classes. -[861.36 --> 870.16] Oh turn your, oh turn your eyes upon Jesus -[891.36 --> 893.36] You -[921.36 --> 931.20] Good morning everyone -[931.20 --> 940.00] Special welcome here to any visitors to Langley Emanuel -[940.00 --> 943.84] And yeah, welcome to church this morning -[943.84 --> 946.68] I think Leslie had a quick announcement she wanted to make -[946.68 --> 950.76] I'm told I'm supposed to do it from here -[950.76 --> 956.02] I missed the bulletin because I had a crazy week and missed it completely -[956.02 --> 959.52] But I meant to put in there that on July the 28th -[959.52 --> 960.50] So in two weeks -[960.50 --> 963.72] In the evening we're going to do a praise by the pond -[963.72 --> 966.24] It's been a few years and it's time to do one again -[966.24 --> 968.62] So we're going to do it at the Denhans place -[968.62 --> 972.12] Seven o'clock on the 28th -[972.12 --> 975.44] You just need to bring a chair and a treat to share -[975.44 --> 977.86] And yes, I rhymed that on purpose -[977.86 --> 980.44] So see you on the 28th -[980.44 --> 981.52] Thank you -[981.52 --> 985.00] This morning with our pastors away -[985.00 --> 989.12] It's my pleasure to introduce Todd Statham from UBCO -[989.12 --> 992.00] He's been there since 2016 -[992.00 --> 993.88] He's on campus there -[993.88 --> 995.92] So I welcome him to the pulpit this morning -[995.92 --> 1006.84] Good morning everyone -[1006.84 --> 1007.56] Can you hear me? -[1008.84 --> 1009.30] No? -[1009.72 --> 1009.98] Yes? -[1010.08 --> 1010.62] Now I'm in -[1010.62 --> 1011.22] Good, okay -[1011.22 --> 1013.76] Please rise for God's greeting -[1013.76 --> 1016.44] These words come from the book of Revelation -[1016.44 --> 1018.36] Grace to you and peace -[1018.36 --> 1021.90] From he who is and who was and who is to come -[1021.90 --> 1024.66] And from the seven spirits that are before his throne -[1024.66 --> 1025.64] That is the Holy Spirit -[1025.64 --> 1027.44] And from Jesus Christ -[1027.44 --> 1028.92] The faithful witness -[1028.92 --> 1030.76] The firstborn from among the dead -[1030.76 --> 1033.86] And the ruler of the kings of the earth -[1033.86 --> 1034.76] Amen -[1034.76 --> 1036.58] And as God has greeted us as his people -[1036.58 --> 1038.38] Let us greet our neighbours around us -[1038.38 --> 1039.82] With words of grace and peace -[1039.82 --> 1047.28] Morning -[1047.28 --> 1047.84] Morning -[1047.84 --> 1051.84] Morning -[1051.84 --> 1072.94] Our call to worship this morning -[1072.94 --> 1076.46] Comes from Psalm 98 -[1076.46 --> 1078.76] There are so many places in the Psalms -[1078.76 --> 1083.24] Where we are told to shout for joy to the Lord -[1083.24 --> 1086.16] Psalm 98 verses 4 through 6 -[1086.16 --> 1088.98] Encourages us to shout for joy to the Lord -[1088.98 --> 1089.96] All the earth -[1089.96 --> 1093.10] Burst into jubilant song with music -[1093.10 --> 1095.80] Make music to the Lord with the harp -[1095.80 --> 1098.76] With the harp and the sound of singing -[1098.76 --> 1102.38] With trumpet and the blast of ram's horn -[1102.38 --> 1105.44] Shout for joy before the Lord, the King -[1105.44 --> 1108.18] Let us join our voices in celebration -[1108.18 --> 1110.24] For God's love for us -[1110.24 --> 1124.62] We stand and lift up our hands -[1124.62 --> 1128.80] For the joy of the Lord is our strength -[1128.80 --> 1134.52] We bow down and worship him now -[1134.52 --> 1138.58] How great, how awesome is he -[1138.58 --> 1141.00] Together we sing -[1141.00 --> 1146.06] Everyone sing -[1146.06 --> 1152.74] Holy is the Lord God Almighty -[1152.74 --> 1157.70] The earth is filled with its glory -[1157.70 --> 1161.76] Holy is the Lord God Almighty -[1161.76 --> 1167.18] The earth is filled with its glory -[1167.18 --> 1172.04] The earth is filled with its glory -[1172.04 --> 1177.42] We stand and lift up our hands -[1177.42 --> 1181.70] For the joy of the Lord is our strength -[1181.70 --> 1187.76] We bow down and worship him now -[1187.76 --> 1191.18] How great, how awesome is he -[1191.18 --> 1193.76] Together we sing -[1193.76 --> 1195.82] Everyone sing -[1195.82 --> 1197.82] Everyone sing -[1197.82 --> 1198.82] Everyone sing -[1198.82 --> 1205.34] Holy is the Lord God Almighty -[1205.34 --> 1207.40] The earth is filled with its glory -[1207.40 --> 1210.40] The earth is filled with its glory -[1210.40 --> 1214.72] Holy is the Lord God Almighty -[1214.72 --> 1219.58] The earth is filled with its glory -[1219.58 --> 1224.64] The earth is filled with its glory -[1224.64 --> 1229.96] And it's rising up all around -[1229.96 --> 1234.64] It's the anthem of the Lord's renown -[1234.64 --> 1239.34] It's rising up all around -[1239.34 --> 1244.58] It's the anthem of the Lord's renown -[1244.58 --> 1246.64] Together we sing -[1246.64 --> 1247.64] Together we sing -[1247.64 --> 1251.64] Everyone sing -[1251.64 --> 1253.64] Everyone sing -[1253.64 --> 1259.12] Holy is the Lord God Almighty -[1259.12 --> 1263.86] The earth is filled with its glory -[1263.86 --> 1268.28] Holy is the Lord God Almighty -[1268.28 --> 1272.92] The earth is filled with its glory -[1272.92 --> 1277.48] The earth is filled with its glory -[1277.48 --> 1302.90] The earth is filled with its glory -[1302.90 --> 1306.38] Alec -[1308.10 --> 1312.68] A -[1312.70 --> 1313.60] The earth is filled with its glory -[1313.60 --> 1315.06] The earth is filled with its glory -[1315.06 --> 1316.30] The earth is filled with its glory -[1316.30 --> 1323.90] rises we wait upon the lord we will wait upon the lord we will wait upon the lord our god -[1325.18 --> 1327.18] you reign forever -[1330.62 --> 1334.62] our hope our strong deliver -[1334.62 --> 1355.02] you are the everlasting god the everlasting god you do not faint you won't grow weary -[1355.02 --> 1372.62] you're the defender of the wind you comfort those in need you lift us upon wings like eagles -[1372.62 --> 1391.34] strength will rise as we wait upon the lord we will wait upon the lord we will wait upon the lord -[1391.34 --> 1398.86] rises we wait upon the lord we will wait upon the lord we will wait upon the lord our god -[1400.14 --> 1401.98] you reign forever -[1405.50 --> 1408.54] our hope a strong -[1414.14 --> 1417.98] you are the everlasting god -[1417.98 --> 1421.98] the everlasting god -[1423.66 --> 1429.50] you do not faint you won't grow weary -[1430.86 --> 1444.70] you're the defender of the wing you comfort those in need you lift us up on wings like -[1444.70 --> 1450.38] you are the everlasting god -[1450.38 --> 1452.38] god -[1452.38 --> 1456.06] the everlasting god -[1456.06 --> 1458.06] you do not -[1458.06 --> 1460.06] you do not -[1460.06 --> 1461.74] you do not faint you won't grow weary -[1461.74 --> 1477.42] you're the defender of the weak you comfort those in need you lift us up on wings like -[1477.42 --> 1479.42] you -[1486.70 --> 1487.74] invite you to be seated -[1487.74 --> 1493.74] you -[1495.82 --> 1498.22] matthew 12 34 to 36 says -[1499.02 --> 1505.82] for the mouth speaks what the heart is full of a good man brings good things out of the good stored -[1505.82 --> 1511.10] in up in him and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him -[1512.14 --> 1516.30] i don't know about you but i think we like to think of ourselves as being good -[1517.10 --> 1523.58] the problem is i find that when i forget to rest in the lord or when i pick up burdens that i thought -[1523.58 --> 1524.62] i've left at the cross -[1527.82 --> 1529.50] my heart gets full of the wrong things -[1530.54 --> 1533.34] if you're like me you can hear it by what you're thinking -[1534.38 --> 1537.82] but you can also hear it by what comes out of your mouth and it's -[1539.02 --> 1540.30] not all that good -[1541.02 --> 1543.34] but the holy spirit calls us back reminding us -[1543.34 --> 1545.66] of jesus words in -[1546.38 --> 1548.94] matthew 11 28 to 30 -[1550.62 --> 1555.66] there it says come to me all you who are weary and burdened and i will give you rest -[1556.62 --> 1560.94] take my yoke upon you and learn from me for i am gentle and humble in heart -[1561.66 --> 1566.78] and you will find rest for your souls for my yoke is easy and my burden is light -[1567.42 --> 1572.94] and that's where i find my answer so let's ask jesus to give us a heart like his -[1573.34 --> 1575.42] a gentle and humble heart let's bow -[1579.90 --> 1587.34] abba father forgive us once again for trying to live life on our own and not resting in you -[1590.06 --> 1598.70] open our eyes to your gentle humble heart and help us to learn from you learn that your yoke is easy -[1598.70 --> 1605.02] and your burden is light and that our souls can trust and rest in you -[1606.38 --> 1613.58] with the help of your holy spirit may our mouths speak your love from an overflowing heart amen -[1613.58 --> 1627.58] why don't we stand and continue worship -[1627.58 --> 1638.14] i'm forgiven because you were forsaken -[1640.14 --> 1644.46] i'm accepted you were condemned -[1644.46 --> 1651.02] i'm alive and well your spirit is within me -[1651.02 --> 1664.22] i'm forgiven because you were forsaken -[1664.22 --> 1670.78] i'm accepted you were condemned -[1670.78 --> 1677.26] i'm alive and well your spirit is within me -[1677.26 --> 1681.82] because you died and rose again -[1681.82 --> 1688.38] amazing love -[1688.38 --> 1690.38] how can it be -[1690.38 --> 1695.42] that you my king would die for me -[1695.42 --> 1700.38] amazing love -[1700.38 --> 1703.26] i know it's true -[1703.26 --> 1707.82] it's my joy to honor you -[1707.82 --> 1709.82] and it's my joy to honor you -[1709.82 --> 1711.82] in all i do -[1711.82 --> 1715.26] i honor you -[1715.26 --> 1719.26] i'm forgiven -[1719.26 --> 1728.94] i'm forgiven -[1728.94 --> 1733.26] i'm forgiven -[1733.26 --> 1735.26] because you were forsaken -[1735.26 --> 1738.54] i'm accepted -[1738.54 --> 1739.82] i'm accepted -[1739.82 --> 1743.82] i'm forgiven -[1743.82 --> 1745.82] amazing love -[1745.82 --> 1747.82] amazing love -[1747.82 --> 1749.82] how can it be -[1749.82 --> 1755.82] that you my king would die for me -[1755.82 --> 1759.82] amazing love -[1759.82 --> 1762.54] i know it's true -[1762.54 --> 1767.82] and it's my joy to honor you -[1767.82 --> 1771.82] in all i do -[1771.82 --> 1775.82] i honor you -[1775.82 --> 1785.82] you are my king -[1785.82 --> 1791.82] you are my king -[1791.82 --> 1797.82] jesus you are my king -[1797.82 --> 1805.82] jesus you are my king -[1805.82 --> 1807.82] amazing love -[1807.82 --> 1811.82] how can it be -[1811.82 --> 1817.82] that you my king would die for me -[1817.82 --> 1819.82] amazing love -[1819.82 --> 1821.82] amazing love -[1821.82 --> 1823.82] i know it's true -[1823.82 --> 1829.82] and it's my joy to honor you -[1829.82 --> 1831.82] in all i do -[1831.82 --> 1835.82] i honor you -[1835.82 --> 1839.82] in all i do -[1839.82 --> 1843.82] i honor you -[1843.82 --> 1871.82] worthy of every song we could ever sing -[1871.82 --> 1877.82] worthy of all the praise we could ever bring -[1877.82 --> 1883.82] worthy of every breath we could ever breathe -[1883.82 --> 1885.82] we live for you -[1885.82 --> 1889.82] we live for you -[1893.82 --> 1899.82] jesus the name above every other day -[1899.82 --> 1905.82] jesus the only one who could ever say -[1905.82 --> 1911.82] worthy of every breath we could ever breathe -[1911.82 --> 1913.82] we live for you -[1913.82 --> 1915.82] we live for you -[1915.82 --> 1917.82] we live for you -[1917.82 --> 1921.82] holy there is no one like you -[1921.82 --> 1925.82] there is no one like you -[1925.82 --> 1927.82] there is none beside you -[1927.82 --> 1931.82] open up my eyes in wonder -[1931.82 --> 1933.82] and show me -[1933.82 --> 1935.82] who you are -[1935.82 --> 1937.82] and fill me -[1937.82 --> 1939.82] with your heart -[1939.82 --> 1941.82] and lead me -[1941.82 --> 1943.82] in your love to those around me -[1943.82 --> 1945.82] those around me -[1945.82 --> 1949.82] jesus the name above every other name -[1949.82 --> 1953.82] jesus the name above every other name -[1953.82 --> 1957.82] jesus the only one who could ever say -[1957.82 --> 1973.82] jesus the name above every other name -[1973.82 --> 1975.82] jesus the only one who could ever say -[1975.82 --> 1982.06] we could ever breathe we live for you we live for you -[1985.18 --> 1999.42] holy there is no one like you there is one beside you open up my eyes in wonder and show me -[1999.42 --> 2021.02] who you are and fill me with your heart and lead me in your love to those around me -[2029.42 --> 2043.42] and i will build my life upon your love it is -[2043.42 --> 2057.42] is -[2057.42 --> 2071.42] not be shaken i will build my life upon your love it is -[2071.42 --> 2085.42] is -[2085.42 --> 2099.42] holy there is no one like you there is none beside you open up my eyes in wonder and show me -[2099.42 --> 2113.42] who you are and fill me with your heart and lead me in your love to those around me -[2115.58 --> 2127.42] invite you to be seated -[2129.42 --> 2131.42] thank you -[2134.46 --> 2135.02] good morning -[2137.10 --> 2143.50] this morning our offering is for the budget and also for the langley food bank as you can see -[2145.58 --> 2151.58] most of us know we're aware of we've supported the langley food bank for years and years through -[2151.58 --> 2157.34] different ways whether you're a student at school whether it's in the community through our church -[2157.34 --> 2157.66] here -[2157.66 --> 2161.74] um lots of different ways and the langley food bank really appreciates it -[2161.74 --> 2166.78] um i just want to read to you something that was on that is on their website -[2166.78 --> 2175.74] um it says the langley food bank we believe that god has a special concern for those who cannot care for their own needs -[2175.74 --> 2181.74] he clearly calls his people to share his concern and express his compassion to the poor and the needy -[2181.74 --> 2190.78] god's heart towards the poor is not one of harshness or judgment but rather one of mercy compassion forgiveness and help -[2190.78 --> 2200.78] scripture tells us to aggressively work to rescue the poor from the oppression of poverty through our good works and to administer true justice on their behalf -[2200.78 --> 2204.78] which includes showing mercy and compassion -[2205.66 --> 2212.78] the langley food bank is an effective voice in preaching the gospel to the poor through the good works of its volunteers -[2212.78 --> 2216.78] because actions often speak louder than words -[2216.78 --> 2220.78] actions will often create the pathway for those words to be heard -[2220.78 --> 2232.78] god's call to the church is to identify with the poor the weak and the vulnerable and to invest our time energy and money in serving them -[2232.78 --> 2240.78] the long-term objective in all that we do the food bank is to effect lasting transformation in the lives of our clients -[2240.78 --> 2246.78] to bring them from a life of poverty to a life of productivity and hope -[2246.78 --> 2264.78] we recognize the absolute need for the intervention and the work of the holy spirit as crucial crucial to this process as well as the vital necessity for a new and living relationship with god the father through jesus christ his son -[2264.78 --> 2274.78] and i know that when josh from the food bank comes this week to come and pick up um this he will be overwhelmed and he will be um thankful for that he will be -[2274.78 --> 2296.78] um and i think those of you who have contributed um our murrayville community who came out um and brought things and the opportunity we had yesterday at the festival as well to also engage with some of those from from our community so thank you very much -[2296.78 --> 2298.78] um -[2298.78 --> 2300.78] he still has stuff to bring up they can at this point um -[2300.78 --> 2302.78] um -[2302.78 --> 2304.78] um -[2304.78 --> 2306.78] um -[2306.78 --> 2308.78] um -[2308.78 --> 2310.78] um -[2310.78 --> 2312.78] um -[2312.78 --> 2314.78] um -[2314.78 --> 2316.78] um -[2316.78 --> 2318.78] um -[2318.78 --> 2320.78] um -[2320.78 --> 2322.78] um -[2322.78 --> 2324.78] um -[2324.78 --> 2326.78] um -[2326.78 --> 2350.78] um -[2350.78 --> 2352.78] um -[2352.78 --> 2354.78] um -[2354.78 --> 2356.78] um -[2356.78 --> 2358.78] um -[2358.78 --> 2360.78] um -[2360.78 --> 2362.78] um -[2362.78 --> 2364.78] um -[2364.78 --> 2372.78] um -[2372.78 --> 2374.78] um -[2374.78 --> 2376.78] um -[2376.78 --> 2378.78] um -[2378.78 --> 2390.78] um -[2390.78 --> 2392.78] um -[2392.78 --> 2394.78] um -[2394.78 --> 2396.78] um -[2396.78 --> 2398.78] um -[2398.78 --> 2400.78] um -[2400.78 --> 2402.78] um -[2402.78 --> 2414.78] um -[2414.78 --> 2416.78] um -[2416.78 --> 2418.78] um -[2418.78 --> 2420.78] um -[2420.78 --> 2422.78] um -[2422.78 --> 2424.78] um -[2424.78 --> 2426.78] um -[2426.78 --> 2438.78] um -[2438.78 --> 2440.78] um -[2440.78 --> 2442.78] um -[2442.78 --> 2444.78] um -[2444.78 --> 2446.78] um -[2446.78 --> 2448.78] um -[2448.78 --> 2462.78] um -[2462.78 --> 2464.78] um -[2464.78 --> 2466.78] um -[2466.78 --> 2468.78] um -[2468.78 --> 2470.78] um -[2470.78 --> 2472.78] um -[2472.78 --> 2474.78] um -[2474.78 --> 2476.78] um -[2476.78 --> 2478.78] um -[2478.78 --> 2480.78] um -[2480.78 --> 2482.78] um -[2482.78 --> 2484.78] um -[2484.78 --> 2486.78] um -[2486.78 --> 2488.78] um -[2488.78 --> 2490.78] um -[2490.78 --> 2492.78] um -[2492.78 --> 2498.78] um -[2498.78 --> 2500.78] um -[2500.78 --> 2502.78] um -[2502.78 --> 2504.78] two -[2504.78 --> 2506.78] um -[2506.78 --> 2508.78] um -[2508.78 --> 2510.78] do -[2510.78 --> 2512.78] um -[2512.78 --> 2514.78] um -[2514.78 --> 2516.78] um -[2516.78 --> 2518.78] um -[2518.78 --> 2520.78] um -[2520.78 --> 2532.66] Good morning again. -[2533.78 --> 2536.44] Here to lead you in family prayer this morning. -[2537.08 --> 2537.78] Let's pray. -[2539.46 --> 2544.04] Our Heavenly Father, we come before you on this beautiful summer Sunday morning -[2544.04 --> 2545.56] and acknowledge you are the Creator, -[2546.32 --> 2550.10] that you spoke our world into being and that the world speaks out your majesty -[2550.10 --> 2553.60] and your power, a world that we often don't understand, -[2553.88 --> 2556.58] but we take great comfort in knowing you are in control. -[2557.60 --> 2562.60] Lord, you give us the pleasure and experience of the rhythms of life, -[2562.86 --> 2565.52] the rising and setting of the sun, the changing seasons, -[2565.52 --> 2566.98] each with its own character. -[2567.66 --> 2571.36] With summer now before us, we are thankful for the beauty of creation all around us. -[2571.44 --> 2574.90] We are thankful for experiencing the flowers in the forest, -[2575.28 --> 2579.06] witnessing mountain peaks and oceans and rivers and lakes and streams. -[2579.06 --> 2582.92] For many of us, summer is a time of rest and restoration, -[2583.64 --> 2585.12] and for that we are very thankful. -[2585.68 --> 2588.28] For those traveling, we pray for their safety. -[2589.44 --> 2594.06] But Lord, even in summer, help us to continue to see the many needs in our world and communities. -[2595.16 --> 2600.26] We think of poverty, homelessness, refugees, political unrest, and our damaged environment. -[2601.34 --> 2606.42] Lord, we confess that we are often blind to all that you offer and provide for us. -[2606.42 --> 2610.42] We become focused on ourselves and our own perceived needs and desires, -[2610.54 --> 2613.58] so we close our eyes to the needs of those around us. -[2614.10 --> 2619.86] Needs in our world we live in, needs in our country and our province, as well in our local community. -[2619.86 --> 2626.64] We confess that we really have no excuse not to reach out to feed those that are hungry, -[2626.64 --> 2631.88] to clothe the poor and visit those in need, and treat them as equals, as they are in your sight. -[2632.28 --> 2638.28] Father, forgive us, and use your spirit to prompt and move each of us to do our part. -[2638.74 --> 2642.54] We are very thankful for the food drive held yesterday in our community, -[2642.54 --> 2646.24] and for those that all helped organize and contribute. -[2649.00 --> 2653.78] Thank you, Lord, for reminding us that you are in control and that you are always there. -[2654.90 --> 2656.76] Where can we go from your spirit? -[2657.18 --> 2658.18] Lord, you are in the heavens. -[2658.70 --> 2659.62] You are in the depths. -[2659.90 --> 2662.14] You are everywhere, in every corner of our lives, -[2662.18 --> 2664.14] and your hand will guide us and hold us fast. -[2664.14 --> 2668.58] Lord, we pray for our world, our nation, our communities. -[2668.76 --> 2671.18] We bring all leaders who govern before you. -[2671.60 --> 2676.86] We pray that you will bless them and guide them in the very difficult job of leadership -[2676.86 --> 2680.56] and working towards solutions of the many challenges we face. -[2681.66 --> 2685.22] We also continue to bring our needs, concerns, and joys before you. -[2685.56 --> 2690.48] We pray for those in our church body who struggle with physical, emotional, or other issues. -[2690.48 --> 2692.82] We pray for their strength and comfort. -[2693.84 --> 2698.28] We pray for those that have lost family and friends and continue to mourn. -[2698.58 --> 2702.20] Lord, comfort them and send them your special measure of your healing grace. -[2703.28 --> 2707.70] We pray for Emo Smith, who goes for open heart surgery this week. -[2707.86 --> 2711.14] We pray for a successful surgery and a smooth recovery. -[2711.60 --> 2718.76] We pray for peace and strength for Emo and Benita during this time of waiting and preparation. -[2720.48 --> 2724.30] We are thankful for the healing Everly Vartstra has experienced, -[2724.64 --> 2728.80] and we pray that all goes well with her upcoming MRI later this month. -[2729.70 --> 2732.04] We pray for those who are shut in and lonely. -[2732.44 --> 2733.74] We pray you grant them comfort. -[2734.68 --> 2738.96] We pray with joy and excitement as we celebrate with the Spohr family. -[2740.24 --> 2743.20] Congratulations to Ethan and Paige, who were married yesterday in Ontario. -[2743.84 --> 2746.88] And we pray for the Hubberts family as they make final preparations -[2746.88 --> 2748.96] for Noah and Lauren's wedding next weekend. -[2748.96 --> 2756.68] And we also celebrate with Case and Anne-Marie Ben-Muin as they celebrate their 50th anniversary this month. -[2756.84 --> 2760.74] We pray for God's continued faithfulness to them and their family. -[2761.70 --> 2765.82] Lord, help us to remember you're always there and that you call us to follow your teachings, -[2765.98 --> 2769.20] to live in fellowship and communion with you and with one another. -[2769.62 --> 2771.12] And in all things, pray continually. -[2772.16 --> 2774.40] Be with Pastor Todd as he leads us this morning. -[2774.40 --> 2776.46] We thank you that you have brought him here this morning, -[2776.58 --> 2777.92] and we ask you to bless this message. -[2778.70 --> 2781.28] We pray all this in the name of Jesus Christ, -[2782.28 --> 2783.48] our Son, your Son, -[2784.60 --> 2785.38] our Lord and Savior. -[2785.80 --> 2786.02] Amen. -[2786.02 --> 2786.12] Amen. -[2786.12 --> 2786.16] Amen. -[2786.16 --> 2786.18] Amen. -[2786.18 --> 2786.20] Amen. -[2786.20 --> 2786.22] Amen. -[2786.22 --> 2786.24] Amen. -[2786.24 --> 2786.30] Amen. -[2786.30 --> 2788.30] Amen. -[2788.30 --> 2788.34] Amen. -[2788.34 --> 2790.30] Amen. -[2790.30 --> 2792.30] Amen. -[2792.30 --> 2794.30] Amen. -[2794.30 --> 2796.30] Amen. -[2796.30 --> 2798.30] Amen. -[2798.30 --> 2800.30] Amen. -[2800.30 --> 2802.30] Amen. -[2802.30 --> 2804.30] Amen. -[2805.02 --> 2826.02] Amen. -[2826.42 --> 2834.26] Amen. -[2834.26 --> 2834.28] Amen. -[2834.28 --> 2849.28] My name is Todd Statham, I'm a Christian reform pastor and a missionary of this church and our classes to the students, staff, and faculty at the University of British Columbia's campus in the Okanagan. -[2849.28 --> 2853.28] And I'm going into my seventh year doing this, which is remarkable. -[2853.28 --> 2873.28] This is a strategic mission field and I'm delighted to be part of a church denomination and a church generally that believes that we want a gospel presence on public secular universities in Canada, like UBC Okanagan where I work. -[2873.28 --> 2876.28] So thank you for making all this possible. -[2876.28 --> 2884.28] You support my work through your classical ministry shares, also through taking secondary offerings, and I'm very grateful for it. -[2884.28 --> 2896.28] And I'm not here to talk about my work this morning because it's not really the point I'm here just to preach, but it is just a chance for me to say thank you for this really valuable, I believe very valuable work. -[2896.28 --> 2924.28] I spend most of my time drinking coffee with students and professors, which doesn't sound like a job, but it is a job and it's an important one because it gives me the chance to share faith and to deepen faith and to challenge faith across a wide spectrum of people from committed Christians who want to go deeper to students who've left the faith, the students who are not religious at all, but are curious and want to have a conversation. -[2924.28 --> 2930.28] And as you can imagine the secular university campus is full of opportunities, it's also full of great challenges. -[2930.28 --> 2932.28] So I'll cover your prayers as well. -[2932.28 --> 2937.28] A couple of things I just wanted to draw your attention to that I'm, oh thank you. -[2937.28 --> 2940.28] It's very good service. -[2940.28 --> 2946.28] A couple of things to draw your attention to that I'm really excited about just to share. -[2946.28 --> 2955.28] So this last year for the very first time we were able to expand the campus ministry to the local community college in Kelowna. -[2955.28 --> 2959.28] Okanagan College is the largest community college in BC's interior. -[2959.28 --> 2969.28] And Curtis Malista who for many years was a youth pastor at Willoughby CRC, is now living in the Okanagan studying to be a pastor in the Christian reform church. -[2969.28 --> 2979.28] Works for me one day a week at Okanagan college and it's just exciting because of, really because of the financial support of congregations like yours we're able to employ Curtis. -[2979.28 --> 2989.28] And for the very first time Okanagan college has had a Christian Bible study meeting weekly under Curtis's auspices, which is wonderful. -[2989.28 --> 2994.28] Second thing, really excited about, also please keep me in prayer. -[2994.28 --> 3010.28] For the last two years I've been able to teach a UBC course on the Bible, which took, believe me, it took me many years of advocacy and persistent questioning to get to the point where I was able to teach an actual UBC course. -[3010.28 --> 3015.28] Lots of opposition to the idea that a Christian pastor would be teaching a UBC course. -[3015.28 --> 3020.28] This is a course in the English department, the Bible and literature, but really what it is, is kind of adult Sunday school. -[3020.28 --> 3031.28] I'm teaching 35 unchurched students Bible stories so that they can understand the poems and the novels that they're reading, which draw on lots of biblical themes. -[3031.28 --> 3038.28] God is opening up lots of opportunities in campus ministry at UBC and I'm happy, I'm just delighted in what he's doing. -[3038.28 --> 3042.28] But at the same time, it's a challenge and I need your prayers. -[3042.28 --> 3048.28] We've had a big pro-Palestinian encampment going on all summer, just raises the tension level on campus. -[3048.28 --> 3057.28] I'm going to be around after the service, so if you're interested in talking to me about what I do, how you can support it, if you're just curious, what does my day look like, come and talk to me. -[3057.28 --> 3068.28] All right, I'll be having a coffee and happy to chat. -[3068.28 --> 3073.28] God's word for this this morning comes from the book of Acts. -[3073.28 --> 3078.28] I'm reading Acts chapter 8. -[3078.28 --> 3086.28] Starting in verse 26 to the end of the chapter, this is the story of Philip and the Ethiopian. -[3086.28 --> 3093.28] Hear God's word, what the Spirit has to say to Emmanuel Christian Reformed Church this morning. -[3093.28 --> 3103.28] Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, go south to the road, the desert road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza. -[3103.28 --> 3114.28] So he started out and on his way, he met an Ethiopian eunuch, an important official in charge of all the treasury of Kandake, Queen of the Ethiopians. -[3114.28 --> 3122.28] This man had gone to Jerusalem to worship and on his way home was sitting in his chariot, reading the book of Isaiah the prophet. -[3122.28 --> 3128.28] The spirit told Philip, go to that chariot and stay near it. -[3128.28 --> 3133.28] Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading the prophet Isaiah. -[3133.28 --> 3136.28] Do you understand what you're reading? Philip asked. -[3136.28 --> 3140.28] How can I? He said, unless someone explains it to me. -[3140.28 --> 3144.28] So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. -[3144.28 --> 3148.28] The eunuch was reading this passage of scripture. -[3148.28 --> 3150.28] This is from Isaiah 53. -[3150.28 --> 3157.28] He was led like a sheep to the slaughter and as a lamb before the shearer is silent, so he did not open his mouth. -[3157.28 --> 3161.28] In his humiliation, he was deprived of justice. -[3161.28 --> 3166.28] Who can speak of his descendants? For his life was taken away from the earth. -[3166.28 --> 3175.28] The eunuch asked Philip, tell me please, who is the prophet talking about himself or someone else? -[3175.28 --> 3182.28] Then Philip began with that very passage of scripture and he told him the good news of Jesus. -[3182.28 --> 3187.28] As they traveled together along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, look, here's water. -[3187.28 --> 3192.28] Why shouldn't I be baptized? And he gave orders to stop the chariot. -[3192.28 --> 3198.28] Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him. -[3198.28 --> 3204.28] When they came up out of the water, the spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away and the eunuch did not see him again. -[3204.28 --> 3206.28] But he went on his way rejoicing. -[3206.28 --> 3215.28] Philip, however, appeared at Azotus and traveled about preaching the gospel in all the towns until he reached Caesarea. -[3215.28 --> 3222.28] Amen. May God add his blessing to the reading and to the proclamation of his word. -[3222.28 --> 3230.28] Are you familiar with this story from Acts 8? Have you heard it before? -[3230.28 --> 3235.28] It's lots of people nodding. It's a familiar story, I think. -[3235.28 --> 3238.28] This is one of my favorite stories in the New Testament. -[3238.28 --> 3241.28] Really, one of my all-time favorite stories. -[3241.28 --> 3249.28] It shows the early church, the first Christians, after Pentecost, after the spirit is poured down on the church, -[3249.28 --> 3256.28] reaching out to people of different races and places with the good news of Jesus Christ. -[3256.28 --> 3265.28] It's like the gospel is kind of radiating from this epicenter that is Jerusalem to new countries, new places. -[3265.28 --> 3275.28] The church is sharing with others its faith in the great thing that God has done in Jesus Christ for us and for our salvation. -[3275.28 --> 3282.28] And here we have in this story the very first black African becoming a follower of Jesus. -[3282.28 --> 3289.28] I worked as a missionary for four years in Central Africa with the Presbyterian Church and taught at the seminary there. -[3289.28 --> 3294.28] One of my research fields is the history of Christianity in Africa. -[3294.28 --> 3299.28] And when I started my lectures on the history of the church in Africa, I'd start with this story. -[3299.28 --> 3305.28] Acts chapter 8, the first black African becoming a follower of Jesus. -[3305.28 --> 3310.28] He's a powerful bureaucrat. We would think of him as a diplomat. -[3310.28 --> 3320.28] From this land that the Bible calls Ethiopia or Nubia, the modern country of Ethiopia takes its name from him, not the other way around. -[3320.28 --> 3322.28] He is Nubian. He's a black African. -[3322.28 --> 3330.28] And he works in the service of the powerful Nubian queen, the Kandake or the Candace. -[3330.28 --> 3337.28] And in conversation with Philip, he hears for the first time that God's son, Jesus, died and was resurrected, -[3337.28 --> 3345.28] not just for Jews, but for all people, including an African like him or a European like me. -[3345.28 --> 3349.28] And then he's baptized as a follower of Jesus. -[3349.28 --> 3362.28] A great story to remind the church here and now that we have a mission in the power of the Spirit to share the good news of what God has done in Jesus Christ for the salvation of the world. -[3362.28 --> 3366.28] This is a story that sets the tone for us today. -[3366.28 --> 3368.28] The Apostle Paul says, -[3368.28 --> 3384.28] When we gather as a church, what we're doing right now, God is making his appeal to the world through us. -[3384.28 --> 3396.28] When we go out as a church into the world, giving food to the food bank, going into our schools, our works, our jobs, our homes, doing the just and the true and the beautiful, -[3396.28 --> 3399.28] God is making his appeal to the world through us. -[3399.28 --> 3401.28] We are his ambassadors. -[3401.28 --> 3417.28] And of course, when we share our faith, when we talk about our faith in Jesus with other people, sharing a word of encouragement, of faith in Jesus, when we do that, God is making his appeal to the world through us. -[3417.28 --> 3419.28] We are Christ's ambassadors. -[3419.28 --> 3429.28] That's why it's so important for us to share our faith, to be able to talk to our friends and neighbors about what God has done for us in Jesus. -[3429.28 --> 3435.28] I know I just lost about half of you when I said that, that we need to share our faith, right? -[3435.28 --> 3437.28] Some of you are already looking out the window. -[3437.28 --> 3439.28] You're like, uh-oh. -[3439.28 --> 3441.28] Christian Reformed folk are good at lots of things. -[3441.28 --> 3446.28] One thing we're not very good at though is talking to other people about our faith. -[3446.28 --> 3447.28] Are we? -[3447.28 --> 3448.28] Are we? -[3448.28 --> 3449.28] Come on. -[3449.28 --> 3450.28] We're not. -[3450.28 --> 3452.28] We're not. -[3452.28 --> 3458.28] For a long time, the Christian Reformed Church thought we could grow our churches by making lots of babies. -[3458.28 --> 3462.28] And it works, but it can't be sustained forever. -[3462.28 --> 3468.28] And it doesn't answer this key question, is God making his appeal to the world through us? -[3468.28 --> 3471.28] Are we Christ's ambassadors? -[3471.28 --> 3476.28] Christian Reformed folk get uncomfortable with the idea of sharing faith. -[3476.28 --> 3477.28] I get it. -[3477.28 --> 3480.28] Some of you right now are thinking, I'm not that kind of person. -[3480.28 --> 3481.28] I'm not that kind of person. -[3481.28 --> 3482.28] Some of you are cynical. -[3482.28 --> 3485.28] And you're thinking, I don't need to share my faith. -[3485.28 --> 3488.28] That's what we pay our pastors to do, right? -[3488.28 --> 3490.28] You are so cynical. -[3490.28 --> 3492.28] But you're thinking it. -[3492.28 --> 3494.28] Most of you are just afraid. -[3494.28 --> 3497.28] You're thinking, I don't feel comfortable. -[3497.28 --> 3499.28] I feel awkward doing that. -[3499.28 --> 3503.28] What if someone asks me a question and I don't know the answer, right? -[3503.28 --> 3510.28] You're thinking, I don't have a graduate degree in theology like Pastor Chris does or Pastor Kevin or me, right? -[3510.28 --> 3514.28] Listen, I'm on your side, okay? -[3514.28 --> 3516.28] I know all these objections. -[3516.28 --> 3518.28] I say them often in my own head. -[3518.28 --> 3522.28] I am like an off-the-chart introvert, right? -[3522.28 --> 3526.28] I don't like talking to people generally unless I have to. -[3526.28 --> 3533.28] And yet God has called me into a job where really about 60% of the time that's what I'm doing. -[3533.28 --> 3537.28] I'm sitting down talking about faith with people. -[3537.28 --> 3542.28] And I'm more and more convinced that we as a Christian Reformed Church, as a denomination, -[3542.28 --> 3547.28] we really need to take seriously this call to share faith. -[3547.28 --> 3551.28] This is the post-Christian world that we live in, right? -[3551.28 --> 3553.28] Lots of people have left faith. -[3553.28 --> 3555.28] Lots of people are no longer interested in faith. -[3555.28 --> 3558.28] After COVID, lots of people left the church. -[3558.28 --> 3564.28] We need to address these people, those who've left the church, those who never joined in the first place, -[3564.28 --> 3568.28] and share with them what God has done in Jesus Christ. -[3568.28 --> 3570.28] But this question is how? -[3570.28 --> 3571.28] How do we do that? -[3571.28 --> 3573.28] It's fine for me to say this from the pulpit. -[3573.28 --> 3575.28] You start to feel guilty about it. -[3575.28 --> 3576.28] That's not what I want to do. -[3576.28 --> 3578.28] How do we do this? -[3578.28 --> 3582.28] How do we go about just talking to people about Jesus? -[3582.28 --> 3587.28] I'm not very good at this. -[3587.28 --> 3589.28] I'm not, because I'm an introvert. -[3589.28 --> 3596.28] But one thing that God has done over my career as a campus pastor is kind of teach me how to do it. -[3596.28 --> 3604.28] And one place that I've learned from, I've learned how to do this from, is this story from Acts chapter 8. -[3604.28 --> 3613.28] This story is a wonderful story to prime us a little bit about how we actually go about having conversations with others about Jesus Christ. -[3613.28 --> 3619.28] So I want to pass on a couple of the things I've learned from this story to you. -[3619.28 --> 3620.28] Okay? -[3620.28 --> 3628.28] Now the very first thing I learned from this story, it's that sharing our faith definitely takes us out of our comfort zone. -[3628.28 --> 3631.28] And it's okay to admit this. -[3631.28 --> 3633.28] It's just okay to admit it. -[3633.28 --> 3639.28] You don't have to feel bad like you're a bad Christian if you don't feel comfortable talking to others about Jesus. -[3639.28 --> 3641.28] And we know this from the story. -[3641.28 --> 3643.28] It's embedded in the story. -[3643.28 --> 3644.28] Let me show you how. -[3644.28 --> 3655.28] So, Philip is called by God to go out of the city where he had been working into the desert and the wilderness. -[3655.28 --> 3659.28] Now, if you've been reading your Bible your whole life, like many of you had, -[3659.28 --> 3664.28] any time you hear the word wilderness or desert, you should set off a little bell in your ear. -[3664.28 --> 3667.28] Like, ding! Important word. -[3667.28 --> 3672.28] The phrase, go to the south, also means go at noon. -[3672.28 --> 3674.28] Some translations will translate it that way. -[3674.28 --> 3680.28] Because back then people used to use the sun to tell time and to give direction, right? -[3680.28 --> 3685.28] So the story says, go at noon into the desert. -[3685.28 --> 3690.28] What do you know about the Middle Eastern desert at noon? -[3690.28 --> 3692.28] It's hot. -[3692.28 --> 3696.28] It's hotter than Kelowna, which was 39 degrees yesterday. -[3696.28 --> 3699.28] It is hot and uncomfortable. -[3699.28 --> 3701.28] It is not the place you want to be. -[3701.28 --> 3707.28] In fact, you avoid traveling in the desert and especially the desert in the middle of the day. -[3707.28 --> 3714.28] And the point the story is making is that Philip is being moved out of his comfort zone -[3714.28 --> 3719.28] into a place of profound discomfort in order to share faith. -[3719.28 --> 3722.28] That's it. -[3722.28 --> 3729.28] The Spirit of God moves people out of our comfort zone into places where we share faith. -[3729.28 --> 3737.28] Now, I find it gives me a lot of comfort, a lot of encouragement actually, as an introvert, -[3737.28 --> 3744.28] to simply admit from Scripture that sharing faith with others, talking to Jesus, -[3744.28 --> 3751.28] talking about Jesus with others, isn't the most comfortable thing to do for most of us. -[3751.28 --> 3761.28] Even an apostle, Philip, is called out of his comfort zone into an uncomfortable place in order to share faith. -[3761.28 --> 3764.28] So I take heart from that, and you should too. -[3764.28 --> 3768.28] You're not a bad Christian if this makes you feel awkward. -[3768.28 --> 3771.28] You're just like an apostle, right? -[3771.28 --> 3772.28] Think of yourself that way. -[3772.28 --> 3774.28] We're just like apostles. -[3774.28 --> 3776.28] Take heart. -[3776.28 --> 3778.28] And this is my second point. -[3778.28 --> 3787.28] God calls us into these uncomfortable conversations where we have this opportunity to share Jesus with others. -[3787.28 --> 3789.28] These don't just happen. -[3789.28 --> 3792.28] God calls us to them. -[3792.28 --> 3794.28] He's in the conversation. -[3794.28 --> 3795.28] He's there before it. -[3795.28 --> 3797.28] He's there through it. -[3797.28 --> 3799.28] And he is there after it. -[3799.28 --> 3803.28] And this not only comforts us, it should give us some confidence. -[3803.28 --> 3808.28] Yeah, sharing our faith with friends and coworkers, school classmates, whatever. -[3808.28 --> 3810.28] That pushes us out of our comfort zone. -[3810.28 --> 3811.28] But God is there. -[3811.28 --> 3813.28] He's in it all through and through. -[3813.28 --> 3815.28] And this is clear from our story too. -[3815.28 --> 3820.28] When we pay attention to whom the main character of this story is. -[3820.28 --> 3825.28] And when I say main character, I don't mean Philip, and I don't mean the Ethiopian. -[3825.28 --> 3829.28] The main character is God. -[3829.28 --> 3833.28] From start to finish, the story is about God. -[3833.28 --> 3835.28] The story begins with him, right? -[3835.28 --> 3840.28] In verse 26, the angel of the Lord says to Philip, go and rise. -[3840.28 --> 3846.28] And long before Philip even showed up, the Holy Spirit was at work in this Ethiopian eunuch's heart. -[3846.28 --> 3848.28] I mean, think of this, he's half a world away. -[3848.28 --> 3855.28] He's half a world away from his home in Jerusalem to worship God. -[3855.28 --> 3857.28] He's seeking. -[3857.28 --> 3859.28] The spirit is at work in him. -[3859.28 --> 3864.28] Why else would someone be reading the Bible on a bumpy chariot? -[3864.28 --> 3867.28] This is not an ideal place to read. -[3867.28 --> 3868.28] He's hungry. -[3868.28 --> 3871.28] God is in this conversation. -[3871.28 --> 3875.28] And this conversation then happens through the spirit. -[3875.28 --> 3880.28] Verse 29, the spirit says to Philip, go over and join this chariot. -[3880.28 --> 3884.28] And of course, the story ends with God at the very end of the chapter. -[3884.28 --> 3889.28] They come up out of the water and the spirit of God carries Philip away. -[3889.28 --> 3893.28] The eunuch goes on his way, rejoicing. -[3893.28 --> 3900.28] From first to last, God is through and through this conversation. -[3900.28 --> 3901.28] God builds this church. -[3901.28 --> 3906.28] God makes his appeal through us. -[3906.28 --> 3908.28] We can trust in this God and have confidence. -[3908.28 --> 3914.28] I mean, imagine you're in Costco and you run into your friend and your friend's not a believer. -[3914.28 --> 3916.28] And she tells you that she's struggling. -[3916.28 --> 3918.28] You want to say something hopeful. -[3918.28 --> 3923.28] You want to share with her how your faith in Jesus got you through a really hard time in life. -[3923.28 --> 3927.28] Or you've said a prayer and God has answered it. -[3927.28 --> 3932.28] Or maybe you just want to add the words, I'm going to pray for you on to the end of your sentence. -[3932.28 --> 3934.28] But what do you do if you're like me? -[3934.28 --> 3936.28] You don't say anything, right? -[3936.28 --> 3937.28] You just balk. -[3937.28 --> 3938.28] It's awkward. -[3938.28 --> 3940.28] We're in public. -[3940.28 --> 3942.28] But God is in this conversation. -[3942.28 --> 3948.28] His providence has brought us together at this point and for this purpose. -[3948.28 --> 3954.28] He is going to use whatever comes out of your mouth for her good, for her blessing. -[3954.28 --> 3956.28] That's what God does. -[3956.28 --> 3959.28] His providence is through all of our conversations. -[3959.28 --> 3961.28] And we can take confidence in this. -[3961.28 --> 3962.28] Take heart. -[3962.28 --> 3970.28] I don't know how I could handle my job on a secular, often hostile campus, if I wasn't constantly -[3970.28 --> 3976.28] reminding myself, like every day when I go to work, reminding myself that like Philip, -[3976.28 --> 3985.28] the spirit of the ascended Christ is before, behind, and in front of every conversation I will have. -[3985.28 --> 3986.28] That's true. -[3986.28 --> 3988.28] And it's true for you as well. -[3988.28 --> 3993.28] God makes his appeal through us. -[3993.28 --> 3999.28] He prepares us for these encounters and prepares these encounters for us. -[3999.28 --> 4003.28] Even if you don't feel it, that's what he's doing. -[4003.28 --> 4010.28] What else can we learn from this story, Acts 8, about sharing our faith? -[4010.28 --> 4012.28] A lot. -[4012.28 --> 4017.28] One more thing, though, I want to just share that I've learned from this story about sharing -[4017.28 --> 4018.28] faith. -[4018.28 --> 4019.28] And it's this. -[4019.28 --> 4022.28] It's the power of questions. -[4022.28 --> 4028.28] Questions are the keys to great conversations. -[4028.28 --> 4029.28] Genuine conversation. -[4029.28 --> 4030.28] Genuine conversation. -[4030.28 --> 4033.28] Conversation in which we can share our faith in Jesus with others. -[4033.28 --> 4040.28] If I were to poll you as a congregation right now and say, what prevents you from talking -[4040.28 --> 4042.28] about Jesus with your neighbors or your friends? -[4042.28 --> 4047.28] Most of you would probably say, I'm afraid to. -[4047.28 --> 4051.28] I'm anxious that someone, that I don't know what to say, right? -[4051.28 --> 4053.28] I don't have the right answer. -[4053.28 --> 4054.28] That's pretty typical. -[4054.28 --> 4066.28] The thing is, in sharing faith, having the right question is often more important than -[4066.28 --> 4069.28] having the right answer. -[4069.28 --> 4074.28] Having the right question is more important than having the right answer. -[4074.28 --> 4076.28] We know this from the story. -[4076.28 --> 4078.28] This is what I've really taken away from this story. -[4078.28 --> 4080.28] And I'm going to slow it down. -[4080.28 --> 4085.28] We're going to go slow motion here, frame by frame. -[4085.28 --> 4090.28] First of all, Philip listens to the Ethiopian. -[4090.28 --> 4092.28] Did you notice that? -[4092.28 --> 4094.28] Philip's called to go speak with the Ethiopian. -[4094.28 --> 4096.28] We think, oh, he's got a message. -[4096.28 --> 4099.28] He doesn't speak first though. -[4099.28 --> 4101.28] Philip listens. -[4101.28 --> 4107.28] He listens to the Ethiopian reading out loud. -[4107.28 --> 4109.28] Then Philip preaches. -[4109.28 --> 4110.28] No, he doesn't. -[4110.28 --> 4114.28] Then Philip asks a question. -[4114.28 --> 4117.28] Do you understand what you're reading? -[4117.28 --> 4119.28] That's a pretty simple question, hey? -[4119.28 --> 4121.28] You could ask that question. -[4121.28 --> 4124.28] I ask that question a lot of students. -[4124.28 --> 4129.28] Do you understand what you're reading? -[4129.28 --> 4133.28] Then the Ethiopian asks Philip a question. -[4133.28 --> 4135.28] How can I? -[4135.28 --> 4138.28] Look at all these questions going back and forth. -[4138.28 --> 4141.28] This is a real conversation happening. -[4141.28 --> 4145.28] Then Philip jumps into the chariot. -[4145.28 --> 4147.28] No, he doesn't. -[4147.28 --> 4153.28] The Ethiopian invites Philip into his life. -[4153.28 --> 4156.28] Come into my chariot. -[4156.28 --> 4159.28] Come meet me for a coffee. -[4159.28 --> 4161.28] Let's go out for a beer. -[4161.28 --> 4163.28] Here's my cell phone number. -[4163.28 --> 4164.28] Right? -[4164.28 --> 4168.28] This is a relationship that's forming. -[4168.28 --> 4173.28] Words are being shared as hearts are being shared. -[4173.28 --> 4175.28] We need to slow this story down. -[4175.28 --> 4179.28] Take it frame by frame and see what God is teaching us. -[4179.28 --> 4187.28] More questions follow after reading the passage of Scripture from Isaiah. -[4187.28 --> 4190.28] The Ethiopian eunuch asks Philip to explain it. -[4190.28 --> 4193.28] And then he asks Philip to baptize him. -[4193.28 --> 4196.28] Philip does not have an agenda. -[4196.28 --> 4201.28] He's not pushing a tract at the Ethiopian eunuch. -[4201.28 --> 4204.28] He's not ramming answers down his throat. -[4204.28 --> 4207.28] He's listening. -[4207.28 --> 4209.28] Genuinely listening. -[4209.28 --> 4214.28] And then he's responding by asking questions. -[4214.28 --> 4222.28] All these questions back and forth are marks of a good conversation about faith. -[4222.28 --> 4228.28] Questions are one of the main ways that the Holy Spirit changes people. -[4228.28 --> 4240.28] What I mean is that questions, the questions we ask, might be the very same questions that Jesus asked into people's life when he was ministering on earth. -[4240.28 --> 4242.28] Words of comfort and challenge. -[4242.28 --> 4247.28] God uses questions to comfort people and to challenge them. -[4247.28 --> 4249.28] Jesus often asks questions. -[4249.28 --> 4251.28] Who do you say I am? -[4251.28 --> 4254.28] Why are you so afraid? -[4254.28 --> 4258.28] These are questions that invite response. -[4258.28 --> 4264.28] Questions that begin conversations about what really matters. -[4264.28 --> 4268.28] And the ascended Christ does the same thing through his church now. -[4268.28 --> 4275.28] He poses questions to the world, to the people we meet through us, making his appeal that way. -[4275.28 --> 4279.28] Questions to broken people, to a broken world. -[4279.28 --> 4283.28] Questions that might transform or convert. -[4283.28 --> 4288.28] The questions might be as simple as, who do you think Jesus is? -[4288.28 --> 4291.28] Would you like me to pray for you? -[4291.28 --> 4294.28] How are you really doing? -[4294.28 --> 4299.28] I ask questions like this all the time. -[4299.28 --> 4302.28] In my work as a campus pastor. -[4302.28 --> 4306.28] There's this iconic novel by Jack Kerouac called On the Road. -[4306.28 --> 4313.28] It's a great scene where two young men are drifting along the highway traveling and they bump into this old farmer. -[4313.28 --> 4317.28] I always imagine him as a kind of old Dutch CRC farmer. -[4317.28 --> 4323.28] And he says to these young men, you guys going somewhere? -[4323.28 --> 4325.28] Or are you just going? -[4325.28 --> 4327.28] Great question. -[4327.28 --> 4330.28] I use a variation of this question all the time with students. -[4330.28 --> 4332.28] You guys going somewhere? -[4332.28 --> 4333.28] What are you doing? -[4333.28 --> 4335.28] What's the point of it all? -[4335.28 --> 4336.28] Right? -[4336.28 --> 4338.28] This is this great existential question. -[4338.28 --> 4340.28] It's not a question that closes conversations down. -[4340.28 --> 4344.28] It opens them up so that we can talk about things that really matter. -[4344.28 --> 4349.28] Questions invite response. -[4349.28 --> 4352.28] They're how God can challenge and comfort people. -[4352.28 --> 4356.28] The other thing that questions do when we're sharing faith is they clear away clutter. -[4356.28 --> 4359.28] They clear away clutter really fast. -[4359.28 --> 4362.28] And this is important in the moment we're in right now culturally. -[4362.28 --> 4365.28] We're in this so-called post-Christian world, right? -[4365.28 --> 4369.28] Where people are often very hostile to faith. -[4369.28 --> 4373.28] But they're hostile to a faith they don't really know anything about. -[4373.28 --> 4376.28] Have you noticed this if you ever talk to people about Christianity? -[4376.28 --> 4381.28] They think they know what we believe and what we're like, but they really don't. -[4381.28 --> 4386.28] And they say all sorts of ludicrous things that they've got from the media about what Christians are like. -[4386.28 --> 4389.28] I get this all the time in my work. -[4389.28 --> 4393.28] We're not the first generation in history to have to deal with this. -[4393.28 --> 4395.28] If you could bring up the next slide. -[4395.28 --> 4397.28] I was reading this recently. -[4397.28 --> 4402.28] There's a second century Christian philosopher named Justin Martyr. -[4402.28 --> 4407.28] And his name is Justin Martyr because around the year 170 he's martyred. -[4407.28 --> 4409.28] He's killed for his faith. -[4409.28 --> 4413.28] But he's a philosopher who converts to Christianity. -[4413.28 --> 4417.28] And at some point in his career he writes what's called an apology. -[4417.28 --> 4420.28] Not I'm saying sorry, an apology like a defense. -[4420.28 --> 4428.28] He writes a defense of Christianity because as he explains it, -[4428.28 --> 4432.28] I propose to him, this is the people who are criticizing Christianity, -[4432.28 --> 4439.28] certain questions on this subject and spoke with him and found most convincingly that he in truth knows nothing. -[4439.28 --> 4444.28] So he writes this to the Senate of Rome, a defense of Christianity, -[4444.28 --> 4449.28] because what he's hearing when he's asking questions of people, -[4449.28 --> 4450.28] what do Christians believe? -[4450.28 --> 4451.28] What are we like? -[4451.28 --> 4453.28] He's hearing all this nonsense. -[4453.28 --> 4462.28] And so he's asking questions to declutter the field so that we can share faith properly. -[4462.28 --> 4463.28] And I find this so heartening. -[4463.28 --> 4465.28] I come across this all the time. -[4465.28 --> 4473.28] In September, a young woman texted me from at UBC saying she wanted to meet with me for a coffee. -[4473.28 --> 4477.28] And I know this young woman from a local church. -[4477.28 --> 4480.28] So we sat down and sort of, what's on your mind? -[4480.28 --> 4487.28] And she had just been in a first year anthropology class, like Anthropology 101. -[4487.28 --> 4493.28] And the professor was describing religious groups, including Christianity. -[4493.28 --> 4496.28] And as soon as I hear this in my head, I'm thinking, oh, no. -[4496.28 --> 4503.28] And she says, so my professor says that most Christians are white supremacists. -[4503.28 --> 4506.28] This is a fact, right? -[4506.28 --> 4508.28] She's like, is this true? -[4508.28 --> 4514.28] My question, do you know that the vast majority of Christians in the world aren't white? -[4514.28 --> 4516.28] I didn't know that. -[4516.28 --> 4519.28] Why don't you ask your professor that? -[4519.28 --> 4522.28] Maybe he doesn't know that either. -[4522.28 --> 4525.28] Most Christians in the world, the vast majority of Christians in the world are not white. -[4525.28 --> 4526.28] Okay? -[4526.28 --> 4529.28] So it's kind of hard to put the two together. -[4529.28 --> 4530.28] Most Christians in the world are not white. -[4530.28 --> 4533.28] And yet, apparently, most Christians are white supremacists. -[4533.28 --> 4534.28] No. -[4534.28 --> 4544.28] Questions are powerful things for removing the clutter so that we can have real conversations about faith. -[4544.28 --> 4547.28] It was true back then in the second century. -[4547.28 --> 4556.28] It's just as true today in the 21st century in this secular post-Christian world in which we live. -[4556.28 --> 4558.28] This is the last thing I want to say about questions. -[4558.28 --> 4560.28] And it's an important one. -[4560.28 --> 4573.28] The fact that Philip is asking so many questions of the Ethiopian eunuch shows that he really values the Ethiopian eunuch as an individual person, as a unique person that God has put before him. -[4573.28 --> 4587.28] Like, I know, I've heard, I've never experienced this, but I've heard that in some Christian traditions, they encourage people to do evangelism by, you know, knocking on doors and leading with a question like, oh, you know, if you died tonight, would you go to heaven or hell? -[4587.28 --> 4588.28] Something like that. -[4588.28 --> 4595.28] I don't find that's a very effective way of sharing our faith because it starts with a leading question. -[4595.28 --> 4598.28] And it's a stock question. -[4598.28 --> 4606.28] I think Philip shows us a much better way of listening, genuinely listening to the unique person that God has put before him. -[4606.28 --> 4615.28] And then responding with questions that intersect and engage that person's unique story, their place in life. -[4615.28 --> 4617.28] What are you reading? -[4617.28 --> 4619.28] Do you understand it? -[4619.28 --> 4626.28] These are the kind of questions someone asks who's genuinely listening to what's happening in the life of the person before him. -[4626.28 --> 4628.28] I find that so much better. -[4628.28 --> 4639.28] Questions, listening and then asking questions shows that we're taking the person before us and their story as a unique story that God wants us to engage with. -[4639.28 --> 4645.28] You know, we believe as Christians that Jesus is the answer. -[4645.28 --> 4646.28] Absolutely. -[4646.28 --> 4659.28] He is the answer to questions that arise from people, all sorts of people in particular seasons of life and moments of life with very different sins and fears, burdens and hurts. -[4659.28 --> 4663.28] Let's listen to those stories and then ask questions. -[4663.28 --> 4666.28] Questions that show that we care, that we're interested. -[4666.28 --> 4672.28] Then we share how God has touched our life in Jesus Christ. -[4672.28 --> 4678.28] Then we share with them what God is doing in us, just like Philip did with the eunuch. -[4678.28 --> 4687.28] Now, I know it's intimidating to think that we should share our faith with others if we think we have to have all the right answers beforehand. -[4687.28 --> 4700.28] But it's not intimidating to think about sharing our faith in Jesus if it means listening carefully and then asking questions as that relationship emerges. -[4700.28 --> 4702.28] We can all do that, right? -[4702.28 --> 4715.28] Then sharing our faith with our new friend or an old family member about how we've experienced Jesus in the Bible becomes a genuine conversation in which Jesus Christ is shared, -[4715.28 --> 4720.28] in which God makes his appeal through us. -[4720.28 --> 4725.28] So those are a few things I've learned from this story in my work. -[4725.28 --> 4728.28] God has taught me from this story about sharing faith. -[4728.28 --> 4734.28] And I'll just close with this little anecdote as a way of making, maybe making everything concrete. -[4734.28 --> 4743.28] So one thing I do often, I've done throughout the years, is organize what I call faith conversations. -[4743.28 --> 4749.28] And these are conversations between people of different faiths, usually between Christians and Muslims. -[4749.28 --> 4752.28] And these are great experiences. -[4752.28 --> 4761.28] Our goal is simply to share faith, to explain with others why we believe what we believe and why we do what we do. -[4761.28 --> 4764.28] You can see a couple of examples here. One of them was during COVID. -[4764.28 --> 4766.28] How do we keep faith during COVID? -[4766.28 --> 4770.28] Another one had to do with time, like holy times and holy days and things like that. -[4770.28 --> 4777.28] And in these conversations, questions are prominent. -[4777.28 --> 4783.28] Why do you do this? Why do you believe that? What does that mean to you? -[4783.28 --> 4788.28] And from both sides, going back and forth. Why do Christians do that? -[4788.28 --> 4794.28] Questions are important for decluttering the conversation too. -[4794.28 --> 4798.28] Muslims think they know what Christians believe. -[4798.28 --> 4804.28] Why do you guys worship the Trinity, the Father, Mary and Jesus? -[4804.28 --> 4808.28] We don't actually, right? But they think we do. -[4808.28 --> 4812.28] Questions are important for clearing the ground. -[4812.28 --> 4817.28] And questions are important for building these relationships. -[4817.28 --> 4822.28] And the one story that comes to mind is the one that probably happened three years ago. -[4822.28 --> 4827.28] And two young women who are Christian joined this conversation. -[4827.28 --> 4831.28] And they were very shy. They sat on the edge. They didn't talk very much. -[4831.28 --> 4835.28] They would be the first to admit that they didn't know very much about Christianity. -[4835.28 --> 4840.28] Although they'd grown up in the church. And they didn't quite know what to say. -[4840.28 --> 4849.28] But they asked questions. And because they asked questions, they began to form real relationships with a couple of young Muslims. -[4849.28 --> 4858.28] And after this session concluded, the conversation continued on social media. -[4858.28 --> 4862.28] They were back and forth by text. Various questions about faith. -[4862.28 --> 4866.28] And then finally comes the big question. One of the Muslim students says, -[4866.28 --> 4874.28] Can I come to church with you? It's an invitation. Can I be part of your life and faith? -[4874.28 --> 4880.28] And so these young women, again, the first to admit they know very little about their own faith. -[4880.28 --> 4883.28] Of course you can come to church with us. -[4883.28 --> 4891.28] And so for the last, I think, six weeks of that term, this student was, this Muslim student was about to graduate. -[4891.28 --> 4895.28] For the last six weeks of that term, the Muslim went to church with these two Christians. -[4895.28 --> 4899.28] And listened and asked more questions. -[4899.28 --> 4903.28] Now this student has graduated. I don't know what's happened to him. -[4903.28 --> 4910.28] But seeds were planted there. And seeds were planted, not because these Christians knew all the answers. -[4910.28 --> 4917.28] And were bold to share the faith. But because they were quiet and shy. -[4917.28 --> 4925.28] And took the time to listen. And then ask meaningful questions based on the person that God had put in their life before them. -[4925.28 --> 4929.28] And I don't know what happened to that Muslim student. -[4929.28 --> 4935.28] But my hope and prayer is that he, like the Ethiopian eunuch, will one day go on his way rejoicing, -[4935.28 --> 4940.28] having encountered the living God revealed in Jesus Christ. -[4940.28 --> 4945.28] So take heart. Have the courage to share our faith. -[4945.28 --> 4949.28] You don't have to have all the answers. -[4949.28 --> 4953.28] You just need to love people enough to listen to them. -[4953.28 --> 4956.28] Ask questions that touch their lives. -[4956.28 --> 4963.28] Answers, or questions that touch their lives and questions that point to the answer. -[4963.28 --> 4968.28] Jesus Christ, who is much bigger and greater than any of our conversations. -[4968.28 --> 4976.28] My hope and prayer for our Reformed churches is that we will become better at sharing faith in this post-Christian world in which we live. -[4976.28 --> 4983.28] Because through us, God is making his appeal to this hurting, broken, and sinful world. -[4983.28 --> 4991.28] And through us, his Son is being glorified. And his kingdom is being revealed. Amen. -[4991.28 --> 4996.28] Invite the worship team to come up for a song of response. -[4996.28 --> 5021.28] And we all rise as we sing this great is thy faithfulness. -[5021.28 --> 5024.20] we sing this, Great is Thy Faithfulness. -[5051.28 --> 5064.80] Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father, -[5064.80 --> 5071.80] there is no shadow of turning with Thee. -[5072.58 --> 5078.80] Thou changest not, Thy compassions they fail not, -[5078.80 --> 5085.80] as Thou hast been, Thou forever wilt be. -[5086.92 --> 5092.80] Great is Thy faithfulness, Great is Thy faithfulness, -[5093.96 --> 5099.80] morning by morning new mercies I see. -[5100.74 --> 5106.52] All I have needed Thy hand has provided, -[5106.52 --> 5113.52] Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[5115.52 --> 5121.52] Summer and winter and springtime and harvest, -[5121.52 --> 5128.52] Sun, moon and stars in their courses above. -[5128.52 --> 5135.52] Join with all nature in manifold witness, -[5135.52 --> 5142.52] To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love. -[5142.52 --> 5149.52] Great is Thy faithfulness, Great is Thy faithfulness, -[5150.52 --> 5155.52] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[5155.52 --> 5162.52] All I have needed Thy hand has provided, -[5162.52 --> 5169.52] Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[5169.52 --> 5185.52] Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide, -[5185.52 --> 5192.52] Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, -[5192.52 --> 5199.52] Blessings all mine with ten thousand beside. -[5199.52 --> 5202.52] Great is Thy faithfulness, Great is Thy faithfulness, -[5202.52 --> 5204.52] Great is Thy faithfulness. -[5204.52 --> 5207.52] Great is Thy faithfulness, Great is Thy faithfulness, -[5207.52 --> 5213.52] Morning by morning new mercies I see. -[5214.52 --> 5219.52] All I have needed Thy hand has provided, -[5220.52 --> 5223.52] Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me. -[5223.52 --> 5227.84] faithfulness Lord unto me. -[5235.04 --> 5241.06] As we depart, God blesses his people with these words from 2 Thessalonians. -[5241.20 --> 5246.90] Receive God's blessing. May the Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father -[5246.90 --> 5252.60] who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, -[5252.60 --> 5260.76] encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and every good word. Amen. -[5260.76 --> 5261.76] Amen. -[5290.76 --> 5292.76] Amen. -[5292.76 --> 5294.72] Who was slain for the world? -[5294.72 --> 5303.20] you and the eyes of all men will be fixed on the lamb who was crucified -[5303.20 --> 5309.44] with wisdom and mercy and justice -[5309.44 --> 5316.24] and the angels will cry -[5316.24 --> 5324.24] who was slain for the world -[5324.24 --> 5328.24] in power -[5328.24 --> 5336.24] and the earth will reply you shall reign -[5336.24 --> 5344.24] as the king of all kings and the lord of all lords -[5346.24 --> 5352.24] there's a shield in our hand and a sword at our side -[5352.24 --> 5356.24] there's a fire in our spirit that cannot be denied -[5356.24 --> 5360.24] that the father has told us for these you have died -[5360.24 --> 5364.24] for the nations that gather before you -[5364.24 --> 5372.24] and the ears of all men need to hear of the lamb who was crucified -[5372.24 --> 5376.24] ascended to hell yet was raised up to reign as he'll fall -[5376.24 --> 5378.24] on earth's side -[5378.24 --> 5380.24] and the angels will cry -[5380.24 --> 5384.24] hail the lamb -[5384.24 --> 5388.24] who was slain for the world -[5388.24 --> 5390.24] ruling -[5390.24 --> 5394.24] and the earth will reply -[5394.24 --> 5396.24] you shall -[5396.24 --> 5398.24] raise -[5398.24 --> 5402.24] as the king of all kings and the lord of all lords -[5402.24 --> 5404.24] and the angels will cry -[5404.24 --> 5406.24] hail the lamb -[5406.24 --> 5408.24] who was slain for the world -[5408.24 --> 5410.24] and the angels will cry -[5410.24 --> 5412.24] hail the lamb -[5412.24 --> 5414.24] who was slain for the world -[5414.24 --> 5416.24] who was slain for the world -[5416.24 --> 5418.24] who was slain for the world -[5418.24 --> 5422.24] and the earth will reply -[5422.24 --> 5426.24] you shall raise -[5426.24 --> 5430.24] as the king of all kings and the lord of all lords -[5430.24 --> 5432.24] as the king of all kings and the lord of all lords -[5432.24 --> 5438.24] as the king of all kings and the lord of all lords -[5438.24 --> 5440.24] the lord of all lords -[5440.24 --> 5442.24] in the religion -[5442.24 --> 5444.24] who was slain for the world -[5444.24 --> 5446.24] are out réseau -[5446.24 --> 5448.24] as the king of all kings and the lord of all lords -[5448.24 --> 5458.40] and his Interesting -[5460.24 --> 5462.24] plays out -[5462.24 --> 5464.24] when Chris in heaven -[5464.24 --> 5466.24] and conversation -[5466.24 --> 5468.24] strikes -[5468.24 --> 5498.22] Thank you. -[5498.24 --> 5528.22] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, July 21, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, July 21, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index be09d55d5b88c1b443aa44b2713890608f4726bb..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, July 21, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,56 +0,0 @@ -• The speaker expresses gratitude repeatedly throughout the transcript. -• A worship service is mentioned, but no details are provided. -• The Holy Spirit's role in creating a community or "us" is discussed. -• Baptism is referenced as an outcome of accepting the message of Jesus. -• Approximately 3,000 people were added to their number on the day the story takes place. -• The speaker touches on the idea that the Holy Spirit comes to individuals but ultimately creates a sense of community and church. -• The Holy Spirit gives a transforming power that creates a community shaped by the grace of God -• This transformation can sometimes be counterintuitive and unexpected -• Five characteristics of a church are outlined as the "5 B's": Bible together, being together, bread together, bowing together, and burgeoning together -• The first "B" is Bible together: a church must prioritize the preaching, teaching, and living of the Word of God to be considered a true church -• A church that does not center around the Word of God becomes a social club rather than a community of believers -• God's Word is living and active, able to transform lives through heart and soul surgery on His people. -• The importance of being deeply saturated with God's Word, as represented by not wearing a blindfold or earplugs in church. -• The concept of fellowship going beyond just hanging out or being together, but rather participating together towards a common goal. -• The biblical example of the early church in Acts 2, where believers shared possessions and resources to help those in need. -• The idea that fellowship involves caring for both our own within the church community and showing love and service to those outside the church as well. -• The definition of fellowship as "participating together towards a common goal" through the Greek word koinonia. -• The necessity of having a clear mission or goal for the church, such as gathering, growing, and going out on mission. -• Jesus Christ as shared goal -• Two critical things for moving towards this goal: discipleship and discipline -• Discipleship involves training up others and studying to be shaped by mission -• Discipline requires accountability and letting someone speak into your life -• Bread together, breaking bread in homes and celebrating the Lord's Supper -• Breaking bread is not just a meal, but an encounter with God that unites us with Jesus and each other -• Prayer as the lifeblood of the church, necessary for it to be alive and active -• A Dutch woman's fiery spirit and prayer life is described as beautiful and Pentecostal. -• The importance of praying together, reading the Bible together, breaking bread together, and bowing together in a church setting. -• The concept of "burgeoning" or growing together inwardly and outwardly in a church community. -• The role of mission and sending people out to spread the Gospel globally. -• A quote from Goheen and Bartholomew on the radiating light of the kingdom and drawing people into it. -• A passage from an unknown writer, Epistle to Diognetus, describing early Christians as living in a post-Christian world but not being distinguishable by their country, language, customs, or manner of life. -• Discussion of Christians being hunted and persecuted throughout history -• Reference to Julian the Apostate's quote about Christians being like the soul in the body -• Importance of community and the Holy Spirit in the church -• Description of how the church functions, including studying scripture, doing life together, and celebrating Eucharist -• Prayer for the congregation to be transformed by the Holy Spirit -• Explanation of the liturgy used during communion -• Invitation to all members of the congregation to come to the table, regardless of their faith or background -• Instructions on how to participate in communion, including passing bread and juice to one's left or right -• Repeated phrases of "Thank you" and "Come, Lord Jesus, come" -• References to the blood of Christ -• Repeated lyrics from a song or hymn about sacrifice, death, and new life -• A conversation with someone who may be an usher -• Statements declaring one's identity as God -• Song: "Amazing Grace" sung by a congregation -• Invitation to fellowship and prayer after service -• Blessing of God's presence for protection, support, and friendship -• Call to love and serve the Lord without fear -• Worship songs with lyrics such as "Behold He comes", "Lift your voice" -• Miscellaneous snippets of song or hymn lyrics in a foreign language -• Reference to a holy cross and light shining like the sun -• Discussion of Jehovah as a unique god -• Call to be calm, lift one's voice, and shine a good sound at the trumpet call -• Mention of salvation coming, but out of sight -• References to video games or events, including "Gonzalez", "Alice in the win too" -• Repeated expression of gratitude ("Thank you") \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, July 21, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, July 21, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b2eb7f8fddf228d250a79a70916a2b9f3133a5ba..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, July 21, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,671 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 599.98] Thank you. -[600.00 --> 629.98] Thank you. -[630.00 --> 659.98] Thank you. -[660.00 --> 689.98] Thank you. -[690.00 --> 719.98] Thank you. -[720.00 --> 749.98] Thank you. -[749.98 --> 779.96] Thank you. -[779.96 --> 809.94] Thank you. -[809.96 --> 839.94] Thank you. -[839.96 --> 869.96] Thank you. -[869.96 --> 899.94] Thank you. -[899.96 --> 929.94] Thank you. -[929.96 --> 959.94] Thank you. -[959.96 --> 989.94] Thank you. -[989.94 --> 1019.92] Let's worship together in song. -[1019.92 --> 1049.90] Thank you. -[1049.92 --> 1079.90] Thank you. -[1079.92 --> 1109.90] Thank you. -[1109.90 --> 1139.88] Thank you. -[1139.90 --> 1169.88] Thank you. -[1169.90 --> 1199.88] Thank you. -[1199.90 --> 1229.88] Thank you. -[1229.90 --> 1259.88] Thank you. -[1259.90 --> 1289.88] Thank you. -[1289.90 --> 1319.88] Thank you. -[1319.88 --> 1349.88] Thank you. -[1349.88 --> 1379.86] Thank you. -[1379.88 --> 1409.86] Thank you. -[1409.88 --> 1439.86] Thank you. -[1439.86 --> 1469.84] Thank you. -[1469.86 --> 1499.84] Thank you. -[1499.86 --> 1529.84] Thank you. -[1529.86 --> 1559.84] Thank you. -[1559.86 --> 1589.84] Thank you. -[1589.86 --> 1619.84] Thank you. -[1619.86 --> 1649.84] Thank you. -[1649.84 --> 1679.82] Thank you. -[1679.82 --> 1709.80] Thank you. -[1709.80 --> 1739.78] Thank you. -[1739.80 --> 1769.78] Thank you. -[1769.80 --> 1799.78] Good morning. -[1799.78 --> 1829.76] Thank you. -[1829.78 --> 1859.76] Thank you. -[1859.78 --> 1889.76] Thank you. -[1889.76 --> 1919.74] Thank you. -[1919.74 --> 1949.72] Thank you. -[1949.74 --> 1979.72] Thank you. -[1979.72 --> 2009.70] Thank you. -[2009.72 --> 2039.70] Thank you. -[2039.70 --> 2069.68] Thank you. -[2069.68 --> 2099.66] Thank you. -[2099.66 --> 2129.64] Thank you. -[2129.64 --> 2159.62] Thank you. -[2159.64 --> 2189.64] Thank you. -[2189.64 --> 2219.62] Thank you. -[2219.64 --> 2249.64] Thank you. -[2249.64 --> 2279.64] Thank you. -[2279.64 --> 2309.64] May you. -[2309.64 --> 2339.64] Thank you. -[2339.64 --> 2369.64] God, God. -[2369.64 --> 2399.62] Thank you. -[2399.64 --> 2429.64] Thank you. -[2429.64 --> 2459.62] And then, you know, -[2459.64 --> 2489.62] And so, you know, you're going to be here. -[2489.62 --> 2519.60] And then, you know, you're going to be here. -[2519.60 --> 2549.58] And then, you're going to be here. -[2549.58 --> 2579.58] And then, you're going to be here. -[2579.58 --> 2609.56] You're going to be here. -[2609.56 --> 2639.54] Peter, you're going to be here. -[2639.54 --> 2669.54] And then, you're going to be here. -[2669.54 --> 2699.52] And you, you're going to be here. -[2699.52 --> 2729.50] And then, you're going to be here. -[2729.50 --> 2759.50] And then, you're going to be here. -[2759.50 --> 2789.48] And then, you're going to be here. -[2789.48 --> 2819.46] And then, you're going to be here. -[2819.48 --> 2849.46] And then, you're going to be here. -[2849.46 --> 2879.44] And then, you're going to be here. -[2879.46 --> 2909.44] And then, you're going to be here. -[2909.44 --> 2910.44] And then, you're going to be here. -[2910.44 --> 2912.44] And then, you're going to be here. -[2912.44 --> 2914.44] And then, you're going to be here. -[2914.44 --> 2916.44] And then, you're going to be here. -[2916.44 --> 2917.44] And then, you're going to be here. -[2917.44 --> 2919.44] And then, you're going to be here. -[2919.44 --> 2920.44] And then, you're going to be here. -[2920.44 --> 2923.44] And then, you're going to be here. -[2923.44 --> 2930.84] receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. And then Luke, who wrote this book, tells us those who -[2930.84 --> 2936.18] accepted his message were baptized and about 3,000 were added to their number that day. -[2937.36 --> 2943.14] So what we're seeing and hearing and looking at in this story is that by grace, the Holy Spirit -[2943.14 --> 2952.30] comes to you and to me and to the individual, but the Holy Spirit then creates the us, the we, -[2952.30 --> 2960.88] the church, right? The Holy Spirit creates the church. And immediately following the individual -[2960.88 --> 2969.32] decision to repent and be baptized, Luke gives a picture of the common life of their number together. -[2970.40 --> 2977.54] And that's the point for this morning, that the Holy Spirit is and gives a transforming power -[2977.54 --> 2986.46] to ignite a community made by grace, right? The Holy Spirit is and gives a transforming power, -[2986.46 --> 2993.66] and that transforming power creates something, starts something, and that something is a community -[2993.66 --> 2999.80] that's shaped by the grace of God. We can actually already start taking that a step further, -[2999.80 --> 3007.32] right? By the Word of God preached and proclaimed and read and studied, the Holy Spirit transforms -[3007.32 --> 3014.08] lives, right? And then that in turn, in the transformation of individual lives, that in turn -[3014.08 --> 3019.42] transforms homes and communities and cities and through it all, the world. -[3019.42 --> 3027.66] But what we'll begin to see, I hope, is that this transformation can sometimes look a little bit -[3027.66 --> 3038.00] counterintuitive. It can sometimes even be an inversion of your expectations. And at minimum, what it is, -[3038.00 --> 3048.52] is unexpected. And from that second part of the passage, the last six verses, we can see -[3048.52 --> 3056.10] five characteristics of a church as church. These are going to help us answer the question, -[3056.26 --> 3062.96] why is church better than brunch? Or what does it mean to be and to go to church? I'm going to call -[3062.96 --> 3071.14] these the five B's, or how to be a church together. So how you be a church together, you've got Bible -[3071.14 --> 3077.98] together, being together, bread together, bowing together, and burgeoning together. Now that's a weird -[3077.98 --> 3084.06] word, but I needed a B, I'll explain it when we get there. Let's start with the first one, Bible -[3084.06 --> 3092.56] together. One of the defining characteristics of the church, according to Acts 2, is being together -[3092.56 --> 3100.96] in the Bible, reading the Bible together, studying the Bible together, listening to the teaching of the -[3100.96 --> 3108.02] apostles to biblical teaching and to the exposition of the Bible. Right? We read that they devoted -[3108.02 --> 3117.56] themselves to the apostles' teaching. A church that is not centered around the preaching, teaching, -[3117.56 --> 3126.86] and living of the Word of God is simply not a church. Now for ears to hear, that might sound like a -[3126.86 --> 3133.04] controversial statement. And if it doesn't sound like a controversial statement, one, you're taking -[3133.04 --> 3138.74] for granted where you're sitting, or two, you didn't actually hear what I said. Because a church -[3138.74 --> 3145.38] that is not centered and built upon the Word of God is not actually a church. It's a social club. -[3147.22 --> 3151.80] It's maybe a fun place to go, although if that's why you're going, you're wondering, yeah, you know what, -[3151.84 --> 3156.66] brunch probably is better. I mean, what's better than hollandaise over top of lightly poached eggs? -[3156.86 --> 3169.66] This. This. This. Every day they met together in the temple courts. They went to study and to learn -[3169.66 --> 3177.82] and to hear. A church is a church when we study and learn and hear the Word of God. A church is and -[3177.82 --> 3185.08] does so much more than that, absolutely, and amen, but without the first priority of God's Word, -[3185.08 --> 3193.76] we cease to be a church. Now, a church doesn't have to do it the way that we do it, right? There's lots -[3193.76 --> 3198.44] of culturally conditioned reasons why we do this, lots of history as to why we structure ourselves -[3198.44 --> 3204.30] in the way that we do. They don't have to preach the way that I preach, right? And maybe in the right -[3204.30 --> 3209.82] setting with the right people, there isn't even a preacher, but everyone sits in a circle and digs into -[3209.82 --> 3216.78] the Bible together. The point is, whatever form it takes, the Bible, the teaching of the apostles, -[3217.00 --> 3224.80] needs to be held up. The gospel of Jesus, just like Peter's first sermon, needs to be the central -[3224.80 --> 3233.72] defining message of the body. And it has to come to us from the Bible read and explained and applied. -[3233.72 --> 3241.90] What you can't do, and I've actually heard people say this to me, and I've heard church leaders say -[3241.90 --> 3246.44] this, right, is that we don't read the Word, we don't preach the Word, we live the Word. -[3248.34 --> 3256.72] And a church preaches and teaches the Bible in community. That's Bible together, right? The Word -[3256.72 --> 3263.30] of God, we read, is living and active. So let's let it loose, right? The Word of God is sharper than any -[3263.30 --> 3270.52] double-edged sword. It's able to separate bone from marrow. It's a scalpel on the heart, right? God, -[3270.64 --> 3277.02] by His Holy Spirit, uses the Word to do heart and soul surgery on His people, right? To take the heart -[3277.02 --> 3285.76] of stone that we live with and in and out of and turn it into, transform it into a heart of flesh. -[3287.10 --> 3291.90] Right? God's Word, we read, is useful for teaching, correcting, rebuking, and training in righteousness, -[3292.10 --> 3298.90] right? God is teaching us a master class on life as He has designed and intended for us to live, -[3298.90 --> 3306.30] and He makes that possible in you through His Word, right? He uses His Word to shape you -[3306.30 --> 3316.70] like a potter shapes their bowl, to transform you into the image of His Son and to renew your mind. -[3318.30 --> 3324.20] Sometimes I hear people say something like, I just wish I could hear God speak to me. -[3325.26 --> 3330.42] And then I ask, well, how often are you reading the Word? -[3330.42 --> 3338.78] And the answer that I usually get is, well, not really at all, right? Or I try to, but then I just -[3338.78 --> 3344.36] fall asleep. Or, you know, I wish I could. I know that I should. I just don't have time. -[3345.72 --> 3350.90] And if that's you, if that's your answer, it shouldn't surprise you that you don't hear God speak -[3350.90 --> 3356.92] because you're not listening, right? Don't get me wrong, of course. God can speak audibly. -[3356.92 --> 3362.04] God can speak through a gentle whisper. God can speak through a revelation. God can speak through -[3362.04 --> 3367.84] a dream. He can speak through creation. I believe all of that is true. But the primary way that God -[3367.84 --> 3377.50] speaks to us is right here in this Word, is right here in this moment. God is speaking. -[3377.50 --> 3386.10] I can illustrate that by saying like this. If I say to you, I want to go watch a movie, -[3387.26 --> 3393.78] but then when I go to the theater, I put a blindfold on and earplugs in, right? I hear -[3393.78 --> 3400.26] muffled voices and all the explosions. And maybe depending on how bright things get, I can see -[3400.26 --> 3405.24] that there's a change in the amount of light that comes through. I know that something is happening, -[3405.24 --> 3409.42] right? That someone is talking, that there's incredible things happening in front of me, -[3409.54 --> 3417.12] and it's exciting, but I just don't know what it is. That's kind of like what happens if you're not -[3417.12 --> 3422.70] in your Bible and you come to church on Sunday and you walk away going, I just don't actually get -[3422.70 --> 3430.80] anything from God. Because you're putting a blindfold on. You're putting earplugs in by not being deeply -[3430.80 --> 3439.76] saturated with His Word. God reveals Himself through the pages of the Bible, and He shows you what His -[3439.76 --> 3447.84] design and intent for life is. And to be a church, we must believe and practice that. -[3450.64 --> 3457.40] Bible together. The second one is being together. They devoted themselves to fellowship. -[3457.40 --> 3466.18] Now, I'm fully aware that fellowship is a church word. I have not met somebody under 40 -[3466.18 --> 3473.82] who doesn't go to church and uses the word fellowship. It just doesn't happen, right? You -[3473.82 --> 3479.84] don't hear people at the pub saying, I'm just here for the fellowship. At least I've never heard it. -[3479.98 --> 3485.88] Maybe you have different friends than I do. Is a fellowship then a word that we really understand? -[3485.88 --> 3490.94] Right? I'll stand up here and invite you to fellowship after the service, or you'll go to -[3490.94 --> 3496.48] someone's house for dinner, and maybe even your kids will pray, Jesus, thank you for this fellowship. -[3497.72 --> 3503.26] Those are weird kids. I mean, those are our kids, don't get me wrong, but that's not how people normally -[3503.26 --> 3511.26] talk. In the biblical image of fellowship, there's so much more than just hanging out or being together. -[3511.26 --> 3516.46] Right? For most of us, that's what fellowship might be, hanging out, drinking coffee, sharing a meal, -[3516.60 --> 3521.14] but there's so much more. Look at how Acts 2 builds on the idea of fellowship. -[3522.36 --> 3528.14] Right? All the believers were together, and they had everything in common. They sold property and -[3528.14 --> 3536.60] possessions to give to everyone who has need. Now, if you're of a certain generation, older than me, -[3536.60 --> 3543.40] immediately, right, your flags of red commies are going off right now. This isn't 20th century -[3543.40 --> 3550.24] communism. Right? Notice that the giving is voluntary. People still maintain their personal -[3550.24 --> 3556.24] possessions like homes and property. Right? This isn't communism or even communalism, -[3556.24 --> 3560.00] as it's sometimes been defined, but it is community. -[3560.00 --> 3569.44] A better analogy might actually be a family. Right? The church is a family. And this is true -[3569.44 --> 3577.94] here locally and universally. Right? As brothers and sisters, we take care of each other. We take care -[3577.94 --> 3583.78] of our own. But also, again, this idea of fellowship is even bigger than that because it's not just our -[3583.78 --> 3592.04] own. Did you notice in verse 47? Right? They were together praising God and enjoying the favor of all -[3592.04 --> 3600.72] the people. Enjoying the favor of all the people. Now, surely, all people means all people in that -[3600.72 --> 3608.14] moment. Right? So, not just those who are inside the family of the church, but the earliest church in -[3608.14 --> 3614.20] Acts enjoyed the favor of all people, at least they did for a period of time, because by the time you get to -[3614.20 --> 3619.40] the end of the book of Acts, things have changed a little bit. But they're enjoying the favor of all people -[3619.40 --> 3627.08] because they gave themselves for the sake of all people. They loved their neighbors, their neighbors who are -[3627.08 --> 3636.38] in and out of church. Last weekend here, when we did the food bank or the food drive for Langley Food Bank, how -[3636.38 --> 3644.14] many of our neighbors came and said, thanks so much for doing this. This is such a great idea. We're -[3644.14 --> 3652.78] enjoying the favor of all people. In fact, in the fourth century, there was an emperor named Julian. -[3653.50 --> 3659.48] History has called him Julian the Apostate, and that's because he rejected the Christianity that was -[3659.48 --> 3665.18] burgeoning at the time and tried to bring the empire back to its pagan roots because simultaneous to -[3665.18 --> 3671.10] this is the decline of the Roman Empire. And so he thinks if we get back to our roots, we'll be strong again. -[3671.74 --> 3685.48] But Julian the Apostate, who reigned from 355 to 363, said to his leaders and the high priests in his temple -[3685.48 --> 3694.70] systems, if we want to save paganism, we need to be like the Christians. Helping one another, serving the poor, -[3694.70 --> 3703.26] raising the children that we have cast out. The early church worked together for a purpose, and it made -[3703.26 --> 3712.86] them appear some certain way in the world around them. And that is the best definition of fellowship -[3712.86 --> 3720.52] that we have. The Greek word here in Acts is koinonia, and it's a word that means, in its fullest sense, -[3720.52 --> 3728.18] participating together towards a common goal. Not just coffee after church, but participating together -[3728.18 --> 3735.88] towards a common goal. Being together, fellowship is around a common goal. And so what's our common goal? -[3736.92 --> 3744.02] Do we have one? And again, I don't think it's too strong to say this, but a church without a mission -[3744.02 --> 3752.70] is not a church. Or at least it's a floundering church. It's an aimlessly wandering church. So what -[3752.70 --> 3757.54] is the goal? What is the mission? What is the target and direction towards which we are working? -[3759.70 --> 3767.28] And maybe it's not an oversimplification to say our mission is to gather, grow, and go. -[3767.28 --> 3774.10] Right? That's our common goal. Right? We gather here, and we grow together, and then we go out -[3774.10 --> 3779.18] on mission to all of those places along the back. We go into those places and those spaces -[3779.18 --> 3787.04] to reveal Jesus Christ in His life, death, resurrection, and exaltation. Right? That's our common goal. -[3787.20 --> 3791.50] At least, it's our stated common goal. Whether or not it's actually common is up to you. -[3791.50 --> 3801.32] But if there's a shared goal, right? Know this, that moving together towards that goal -[3801.32 --> 3809.84] is going to involve two critical things. One, discipleship. That is, we are going to have to -[3809.84 --> 3818.04] train up each other and the next generation of Christian leaders. We will have to study and -[3818.04 --> 3825.42] commit our lives to studying and being together and shaping people in line with this mission to -[3825.42 --> 3833.90] gather, grow, and go. Discipleship is critical to this idea of being together. The second thing -[3833.90 --> 3840.40] that is critical to this is discipline. Now, immediately, some of you start bristling -[3840.40 --> 3849.44] because there's two ways that word is used, right? And one, we can get behind. One is like an athlete -[3849.44 --> 3856.36] who is training for their sport. Right? You are disciplined in the training. One is like a musician -[3856.36 --> 3863.06] who is learning her instrument. You are disciplined in that work. You commit to practicing at least 30 -[3863.06 --> 3874.18] minutes a week, a day. Right? However much you put in is what you'll get out. That requires discipline. -[3875.06 --> 3883.86] But also, discipline requires accountability. It requires letting someone speak into your life saying, -[3884.26 --> 3890.60] I don't think you're doing this properly or right or well. It requires letting someone speak into your -[3890.60 --> 3897.32] life that says, I think you need to cut this out to stop what you are doing so that you might be more -[3897.32 --> 3904.84] and more transformed into the image of Jesus Christ. The church throughout time and place, except maybe -[3904.84 --> 3912.68] for the last 50 to 100 years, has always had an incredibly high bar of what it means to be -[3912.68 --> 3924.36] a disciple of Jesus in every area of our lives together. And that seems to have gotten lower and lower and lower. -[3925.24 --> 3935.64] Maybe it's time to pick that up again, to mutually, to communally come together and be disciplined -[3935.64 --> 3947.32] in our discipleship to Jesus. Fellowship, being together, is disciples on mission, disciplining ourselves -[3947.32 --> 3958.20] to what we could easily call radical obedience. Third, bread together. And just so we're clear, each one of -[3958.20 --> 3964.04] these gets progressively shorter. Although I haven't been here for a couple weeks, so maybe I have more -[3964.04 --> 3970.84] to say. Bread together. They devoted themselves to the breaking of bread. They broke bread in their houses -[3970.84 --> 3980.04] and ate with glad and sincere hearts. For the church to be the church, we must break bread together. -[3980.04 --> 3988.12] And this is more than just a meal together in our homes, although it does include that. Right? And in fact, -[3988.12 --> 3995.96] as pastoral elders in the last number of years, we have taken up the practice of starting our meetings -[3995.96 --> 4001.56] together with a meal together for at least three of those meetings every year, sometimes four, -[4001.56 --> 4008.76] if we're lucky and Kevin volunteers to cook. But we start with a meal together and that has changed -[4008.76 --> 4016.20] the tone and the tenor of our room together. That's changed the way we come together and the work -[4016.20 --> 4023.48] that we do together and how we do that work. It is a beautiful, beautiful thing. But for us, -[4023.48 --> 4030.12] more specifically, it is eating this meal together. It's eating the Lord's meal together, the Lord's -[4030.12 --> 4036.92] Supper, the Eucharist, the communion meal. Right? In the early church and in some places, this is a meal -[4036.92 --> 4042.36] that would happen in the service. So the churches would gather and they would share a meal together. -[4042.36 --> 4049.64] And then at some point, a leader would stand up and they would transition to this part of the meal. -[4050.92 --> 4057.32] They would have the Lord's Supper together. And for the church to be the church, we must be breaking -[4057.32 --> 4064.20] bread together. We must be celebrating the sacrament of the Lord's Supper. And as we come to the table -[4064.20 --> 4072.44] today, here's what I want you to reflect on as you walk forward. That this table is more than just a -[4072.44 --> 4080.44] remembering. We are coming here and we are remembering, but that act of remembering is used by the Holy -[4080.44 --> 4088.76] Spirit, is transformed by the Holy Spirit through His presence among us to turn this moment into an -[4088.76 --> 4097.32] encounter with God. Such that as you take that bread and drink that juice, right, it becomes spiritually -[4097.32 --> 4109.08] for us the body and blood of Jesus. Here we are literally taking in Jesus' flesh so that we might be -[4109.08 --> 4118.04] united to Him in our spirits. This is more than just a remembering. But it's not only that we're united to -[4118.04 --> 4122.92] Jesus, that's why when we come to this table, we're going to do it in a circle together around in -[4122.92 --> 4130.12] different groups, because we're being united to each other, right? Our union with Jesus is indelibly -[4130.12 --> 4137.24] connected to our union with each other. And that's what happens when we come here. -[4137.24 --> 4145.96] Right? This Lord's Supper liturgy even that we will speak has elements that date all the way back to -[4145.96 --> 4153.32] the first centuries of the church. We are standing on the tradition of those who have gone before us. -[4153.32 --> 4162.20] And we are professing the faith of the apostles. And we are being united to Jesus Christ and to each other. -[4162.20 --> 4173.96] We break bread together. And then we bow together. Notice here, they devoted themselves to prayer. -[4175.48 --> 4183.00] And prayer, I've said before, is the lifeblood of the church, right? For the church to be the church alive -[4183.00 --> 4192.84] and active, it must be praying. Right? So part of what I do is pray for all of you. Every week, -[4193.56 --> 4198.84] pray for all of you. Part of what the elders do when we gather is to pray for all of you. -[4200.28 --> 4206.36] Part of what others in this church do over and over and over again is to pray for us here and to pray -[4206.36 --> 4214.44] for the church around the world. Right? Whatever we do has to be fueled with prayer. And so whether it's -[4214.44 --> 4223.24] formally at an event here or privately in your own time of devotion, pray fervently, urgently, and expectantly. -[4224.52 --> 4231.08] That's the church. I will never forget in the church I served before coming here, -[4231.08 --> 4238.44] there was this little old Dutch woman. Now you can picture what you think that might mean in your head. -[4239.32 --> 4250.12] But she, as frail as she looked, was the most fiery spirit I have ever met. And even at 88 years old, -[4250.92 --> 4258.76] when she prayed, you could tell that something was happening in her and coming out of her. And it was -[4258.76 --> 4266.12] so beautiful. And I've described it before as her words were reformed, but her posture, her demeanor -[4266.12 --> 4274.52] was full on Pentecostal. And she would pray for the church and for the movement of the spirit. She -[4274.52 --> 4279.64] would pray for the children of the church and for the young families in the church. She would pray for -[4279.64 --> 4286.60] the leaders of the church. And it was a beautiful thing to behold. This is how we pray. In the confidence -[4286.60 --> 4293.64] of our sovereign God, urging, pleading for him to be at work among us and in the world. -[4294.68 --> 4301.40] And not only do we pray together, but we burgeon together. We burgeon together. We read, -[4301.40 --> 4305.80] the Lord added to their number daily those who are being saved. -[4308.04 --> 4314.92] Growing together, inwardly and outwardly, is burgeoning together. Right? Here's what I believe, -[4314.92 --> 4322.36] that if a church is doing Bible together, is being together, is breaking bread together, is bowing -[4322.36 --> 4329.56] together, the people of that church will burgeon. That is, they will grow. Burgeon literally means -[4329.56 --> 4338.20] to produce new buds or leaves, to swell and develop into leaves and flowers. Right? We want to grow. -[4338.20 --> 4346.12] Now that growth may be inward. It may be internal. But my prayer always is that it's also outward -[4346.12 --> 4352.68] and in numbers. Right? That new people are gathered into the church that is doing these kinds of things. -[4353.72 --> 4360.12] But not only that, that we as a church are also sending people out in global mission. -[4360.12 --> 4367.80] Right? It's been a little while in our churches today where we have celebrated those who have been -[4367.80 --> 4376.76] called to be a missionary far flung around the world and in places yet unknown. To languages yet -[4376.76 --> 4384.60] translated for a Bible. But that's what we need in the world today. And a church that is being the church -[4384.60 --> 4393.00] will see that sort of thing happen among them. Goheen and Bartholomew, two professors of mine, -[4393.00 --> 4398.68] they reflect on this line. They say that the life and power of the Spirit of Christ in the believing -[4398.68 --> 4406.84] community radiates the light of the kingdom and draws people in from the darkness. This is what's -[4406.84 --> 4413.40] happening in the church. The amazing truth of this story from the early church as it continues into our -[4413.40 --> 4422.36] age is that Jesus by the Holy Spirit continues to draw people to himself using feeble, inept, broken people -[4423.00 --> 4435.48] like me and even like you. There's a quote that comes to us from -[4435.48 --> 4447.96] a writer who is unknown. We don't know their name, but he writes an epistle to Diognetus in the second -[4447.96 --> 4455.24] century. Now what we know is he's an apologist. Now an apologist isn't someone who says, I'm sorry. -[4455.24 --> 4462.60] An apologist is someone who defends the truth of the Bible and of Scripture. And I want to share with you -[4462.60 --> 4470.12] this quote because as we live in this time of an increasingly post-Christian world, I think it's -[4470.12 --> 4476.44] really valuable for us to look to the pre-Christian world for example and illustration. Now this quote -[4476.44 --> 4482.20] is a little bit long, but it's beautiful and it will be on the screen behind me as I read it. This is -[4482.20 --> 4487.00] where we'll begin to land the plane together. So here are these words. -[4487.00 --> 4495.80] Christians cannot be distinguished from the rest of the human race by country or language or customs. -[4496.68 --> 4502.20] They do not live in cities of their own. They do not use a peculiar form of speech, -[4502.20 --> 4509.48] except maybe the word fellowship. They do not follow an eccentric manner of life. This doctrine of theirs has -[4509.48 --> 4516.04] not been discovered by the ingenuity or deep thought of inquisitive men, nor do they put forward a merely human -[4516.04 --> 4523.56] teaching as some people do. Yet, although they live in Greek and barbarian cities alike, as each man's -[4523.56 --> 4529.32] lot has been cast and follow the customs of the country in clothing and food and other matters of -[4529.32 --> 4537.00] daily living, at the same time they give proof of the remarkable and admittedly extraordinary constitution -[4537.00 --> 4544.76] of their own commonwealth. They live in their own countries, but only as aliens. They have a share in -[4544.76 --> 4552.20] everything as citizens and endure everything as foreigners. Every foreign land is their fatherland, -[4552.20 --> 4559.16] and yet for them every fatherland is a foreign land. They marry like everyone else and beget children, -[4559.16 --> 4565.32] but they do not cast out their offspring. Now that refers to the abhorrent practice that was common in the -[4565.32 --> 4571.16] Roman world. If you had a child that you didn't want primarily, and often if it was a girl, they would just go -[4571.16 --> 4577.00] outside the city limits and leave them in the garbage heap. That's casting out of children. In fact, -[4577.00 --> 4580.84] early Christians would go to those places and collect those babies and raise them as their own. -[4583.16 --> 4589.16] They share their board, their table, with each other, but not their marriage bed. It is true that they are -[4589.16 --> 4594.76] in the flesh, but they do not live according to the flesh. They busy themselves on earth, but their -[4594.76 --> 4603.56] citizenship is in heaven. They obey the established laws, but in their own lives they go far beyond what -[4603.56 --> 4612.04] the laws require. They love all men and by all men are persecuted. They are unknown and still they are -[4612.04 --> 4618.36] condemned. They are put to death and yet they are brought to life. They are poor and yet they make many -[4618.36 --> 4623.80] rich. They are completely destitute and yet they enjoy complete abundance. They are dishonored and in their -[4623.80 --> 4630.36] very dishonored and glorified. They are defamed and are vindicated. They are reviled and yet they bless. -[4630.36 --> 4636.52] When they are affronted, they still pay due respect. When they do good, they are punished as evildoers, -[4636.52 --> 4641.16] undergoing punishment. They rejoice as they are brought to life. They are treated by Jews as -[4641.16 --> 4646.76] foreigners and enemies and are hunted down by the Greeks. And all the time, those who hate them -[4646.76 --> 4652.76] find it impossible to justify their enmity. Remember the words of Julian the Apostate? -[4654.20 --> 4662.20] To put it simply, what the soul is in the body, that Christians are in the world. -[4664.92 --> 4670.84] When the church is the church, it can be an animating spirit, -[4670.84 --> 4681.08] bringing joy and life to the world around us, even as the world may hate what we stand for. -[4682.84 --> 4689.80] From the beginning and in a world of sheer opposition, this is how the church has functioned. -[4690.92 --> 4698.60] Because the Holy Spirit is and gives a transforming power to ignite a community made by grace, we study -[4698.60 --> 4704.76] God's word together, we do life together, we eat together, and we celebrate the Eucharist together, -[4704.76 --> 4717.00] we pray together, and we gather, grow, and go together. This is who we are. My prayer is that this will be -[4717.64 --> 4724.20] who we are becoming even more and more. Amen? Amen. Let's pray together. -[4728.60 --> 4735.32] Lord our God, we have heard from your word, and so now we come to your table. -[4737.00 --> 4743.56] We pray that you would take the truth of these words spoken and proclaim out of your word to us, -[4743.56 --> 4750.84] and you would allow us to taste and see their truth as we come together to this table. -[4750.84 --> 4752.92] Lord our God, we pray that you would love to us. -[4752.92 --> 4760.76] Transform our lives by your Holy Spirit, that as we go from this place, we might go as a people renewed, -[4761.24 --> 4768.60] as a people refreshed, and as a people encouraged and convicted to be disciples on mission with you. -[4769.24 --> 4775.00] Holy Spirit, empower us to that end, to the end of the glory of your name, -[4775.00 --> 4783.00] and the revealing of your kingdom come and coming. In Jesus Christ we pray. Amen. Amen. -[4785.64 --> 4791.96] As we have said, as we come to this table, there's a liturgy that we will speak and you will speak -[4791.96 --> 4800.60] in response to, and parts of these things have been with the church from the second and third and fourth -[4800.60 --> 4808.76] centuries. And so we are standing in a long line of those who remember and who receive the grace of -[4808.76 --> 4819.64] our God as we come to this table. And so lift up your hearts. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. -[4823.08 --> 4823.88] Let's pray together. -[4823.88 --> 4832.44] Father, with joy we praise you, gracious God. For you have created heaven and earth, you have made us -[4832.44 --> 4839.40] in your image, and have kept covenant with us even when we fell into sin. We give you thanks for Jesus -[4839.40 --> 4846.84] Christ, who by his life, death, and resurrection opened to us the way of everlasting life. Amen. -[4846.84 --> 4857.72] Now our Lord Jesus, before he suffered, gave us this memorial of his sacrifice until he comes again. -[4858.68 --> 4865.00] The Lord Jesus, on the night that he was betrayed, took bread. And when he had given thanks, he broke it -[4865.00 --> 4874.36] and said, this is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me. And in the same way, -[4874.36 --> 4885.56] after supper, he took the cup, saying, this cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this in remembrance of me. -[4885.56 --> 4899.64] For whenever we eat this bread and drink this cup, we proclaim the Lord's death until he comes again. -[4900.68 --> 4912.52] This is the mystery of our faith. Your death, O Christ, we proclaim. Your resurrection, we affirm with joy. -[4912.52 --> 4918.28] Your coming, we await with hope. Glory be to you, Lord Jesus. -[4920.52 --> 4928.20] Church family, the Lord has prepared his table for all who love him and trust in him alone for their salvation. -[4929.24 --> 4937.18] And so, come to this table, you who have much faith and you who would like to have more. -[4937.18 --> 4944.36] Come to this table, you who have been to this sacrament often and you who have not been for a long time. -[4944.64 --> 4952.18] Come to this table, you who have tried to follow Jesus and you who have failed, because at this table, you are in good company. -[4953.24 --> 4957.18] Come to this table because Jesus is raised. -[4957.18 --> 4963.66] Come to this table, if you are here or if you are at home participating in your own way. -[4964.04 --> 4967.96] Come because it is Christ who invites us to meet him here. -[4968.06 --> 4972.72] It is Christ who carries us and it is Christ who receives us. -[4974.68 --> 4979.12] These are the gifts of God for the people of God. -[4979.12 --> 4991.26] As we come to this table, as I have said, we will do so in groups and we will take a circle and you will pass the bread to your left or to your right. -[4991.50 --> 4996.00] As you pass that, we invite you to say the body of Christ given for you. -[4996.30 --> 5000.86] As you pass the juice, you may say the blood of Christ shed for you. -[5000.86 --> 5009.88] As we move through, we will do so first with the worship volunteers and the others who are helping us serve. -[5010.68 --> 5018.64] And then you will be indicated, your rose will be indicated when it is your turn to come up to the front by the ushers who are there. -[5019.22 --> 5024.72] If you are unable to come to the front but would like to receive the elements, please just indicate that to the ushers -[5024.72 --> 5028.46] and they will come serve you in your seats where you are at. -[5028.46 --> 5034.90] As you receive the bread as well, just a note, the center cup is gluten-free bread. -[5035.42 --> 5038.40] And so if you require that, you may take from there as well. -[5039.54 --> 5045.36] If you are a guest with us here this morning as well, the juice that goes around is all juice. -[5045.82 --> 5048.42] There is no wine in these glasses here. -[5048.42 --> 5055.16] So I invite those volunteers and other leaders who are going to help us serve this morning. -[5058.46 --> 5076.02] The body of Christ given for you. -[5077.86 --> 5079.22] The body of Christ given for you. -[5079.22 --> 5079.24] The body of Christ given for you. -[5079.24 --> 5084.56] I'm going to go around here. -[5084.56 --> 5085.24] There you go. -[5085.24 --> 5087.76] There you go. -[5087.76 --> 5088.82] There you go. -[5088.82 --> 5118.80] Thank you. -[5118.82 --> 5124.16] Eat and remember. -[5135.16 --> 5136.82] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[5140.42 --> 5142.06] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[5148.82 --> 5155.78] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[5155.78 --> 5161.98] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[5161.98 --> 5164.44] Blood of Christ shed for you. -[5164.44 --> 5168.06] Blood eyesень Holor. -[5168.06 --> 5169.02] What did we say? -[5169.02 --> 5170.42] It was our usher. -[5170.42 --> 5172.72] Okay. -[5172.72 --> 5202.70] Thank you. -[5202.72 --> 5232.70] Thank you. -[5232.72 --> 5262.70] Thank you. -[5262.72 --> 5264.72] Thank you. -[5292.72 --> 5294.72] Thank you. -[5322.72 --> 5324.72] Thank you. -[5352.72 --> 5354.72] Thank you. -[5382.72 --> 5384.72] Thank you. -[5412.72 --> 5414.72] Thank you. -[5442.72 --> 5444.72] Thank you. -[5472.72 --> 5474.72] Thank you. -[5502.72 --> 5504.72] Thank you. -[5504.72 --> 5506.72] Thank you. -[5506.72 --> 5508.72] Thank you. -[5508.72 --> 5510.72] Thank you. -[5510.72 --> 5512.72] Thank you. -[5512.72 --> 5514.72] Thank you. -[5514.72 --> 5516.72] Thank you. -[5516.72 --> 5518.72] Thank you. -[5518.72 --> 5520.72] Thank you. -[5520.72 --> 5522.72] Thank you. -[5522.72 --> 5526.72] Thank you. -[5526.72 --> 5528.72] Thank you. -[5528.72 --> 5536.04] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[5537.64 --> 5544.70] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[5558.72 --> 5588.70] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[5588.72 --> 5602.72] So dearly that I, the guilty one, make a free. -[5603.96 --> 5614.72] A busy life of unsacrifice, the Son of God before me. -[5614.72 --> 5621.04] My death he pays and my death he dies. -[5621.52 --> 5626.72] That I might live. -[5627.14 --> 5632.72] That I might live. -[5632.72 --> 5641.04] And so they watched and died. -[5641.04 --> 5647.04] I despise the sweet charitable. -[5647.84 --> 5653.04] But all the money share. -[5654.16 --> 5658.04] Come, Lord Jesus. -[5658.04 --> 5664.04] I'll praise the love of unsacrifice. -[5664.04 --> 5670.04] And so they watched and died. -[5670.04 --> 5676.04] My death he pays and my death he dies. -[5676.84 --> 5681.04] That I might live. -[5682.34 --> 5687.04] That I might live. -[5687.04 --> 5689.04] And so they watched and died. -[5689.04 --> 5693.04] And so they watched and died. -[5693.04 --> 5695.04] And so they watched and died. -[5695.04 --> 5699.04] And so they watched and died. -[5699.04 --> 5701.04] And so they watched and died. -[5701.04 --> 5703.04] And so they watched and died. -[5703.04 --> 5705.04] And so they watched and died. -[5705.04 --> 5705.90] That I passed and died. -[5713.94 --> 5716.28] So and soats and died. -[5716.28 --> 5718.86] Come, Lord Jesus, come. -[5718.86 --> 5722.40] Look, amen. -[5722.40 --> 5741.40] I'm a man, I'm a man, I'm a man. -[5752.40 --> 5782.38] Thank you. -[5782.40 --> 5812.38] Thank you. -[5812.40 --> 5814.40] Thank you. -[5842.40 --> 5844.40] Thank you. -[5844.40 --> 5846.40] Thank you. -[5846.40 --> 5848.40] Thank you. -[5848.40 --> 5850.40] Thank you. -[5850.40 --> 5852.40] Thank you. -[5852.40 --> 5854.40] Thank you. -[5854.40 --> 5856.40] Thank you. -[5856.40 --> 5858.40] Thank you. -[5858.40 --> 5860.40] Thank you. -[5860.40 --> 5862.40] Thank you. -[5862.40 --> 5864.40] Thank you. -[5864.40 --> 5866.40] Thank you. -[5866.40 --> 5868.40] Thank you. -[5868.40 --> 5870.40] Thank you. -[5870.40 --> 5872.40] Thank you. -[5872.40 --> 5874.40] Thank you. -[5874.40 --> 5876.40] Thank you. -[5876.40 --> 5878.40] Thank you. -[5878.40 --> 5880.40] Thank you. -[5880.40 --> 5882.40] Thank you. -[5882.40 --> 5884.40] Thank you. -[5884.40 --> 5886.40] Thank you. -[5886.40 --> 5888.40] Thank you. -[5888.40 --> 5890.40] Thank you. -[5890.40 --> 5892.40] Thank you. -[5892.40 --> 5894.40] Thank you. -[5894.40 --> 5896.40] Thank you. -[5896.40 --> 5900.40] Well, -[5900.40 --> 5904.40] Lord, -[5904.40 --> 5906.40] I am -[5906.40 --> 5908.40] God. -[5908.40 --> 5910.40] Darn -[5910.40 --> 5914.98] Again and again -[5914.98 --> 5920.40] I call unto you -[5920.40 --> 5925.36] Again and again -[5925.36 --> 5930.60] You are my love -[5930.60 --> 5934.92] In times and troubles -[5934.92 --> 5941.62] You lift me up -[5941.62 --> 5945.44] When I bow down -[5945.44 --> 5949.74] All through the storm -[5949.74 --> 5958.66] Your love is the anchor -[5958.66 --> 5965.36] My hope is in you -[5965.36 --> 5971.66] All through the storm -[5971.66 --> 5981.44] Your love is the anchor -[5981.44 --> 5988.54] My hope is in you -[5988.54 --> 5989.90] Alone -[5989.90 --> 5995.68] Available -[5995.68 --> 5998.90] As to me -[5998.90 --> 6007.10] My hope is in you -[6007.10 --> 6010.88] All through the storm -[6010.88 --> 6040.86] Amazing grace -[6040.86 --> 6044.36] How sweet the sound -[6044.36 --> 6050.86] That saved a wretch like me -[6050.86 --> 6057.56] I once was lost but now without -[6057.56 --> 6063.86] Was blind but now I see -[6063.86 --> 6071.86] T'was grace that taught my heart to hear -[6071.86 --> 6076.86] Grace my fears and relief -[6076.86 --> 6083.86] How precious in that grace appear -[6083.86 --> 6089.86] The hour I first see me -[6089.86 --> 6095.86] My chains are gone, I'll be taking -[6095.86 --> 6102.86] My God, my Savior, what will I be? -[6102.86 --> 6108.86] And I have won His mercy reign -[6108.86 --> 6114.86] Unending love, amazing grace -[6114.86 --> 6125.86] The Lord has promised good to me -[6125.86 --> 6131.86] His word my hope secures -[6131.86 --> 6139.86] He will my shield and portion be -[6139.86 --> 6143.86] As long as I will -[6143.86 --> 6152.86] Through many dangers, toils and snails -[6152.86 --> 6158.86] I have already found -[6158.86 --> 6162.86] His grace that taught me -[6162.86 --> 6164.86] Sing the song -[6164.86 --> 6170.86] And grace will lead me home -[6170.86 --> 6176.86] My chains are gone, I've been set free -[6176.86 --> 6182.86] My God, my Savior, has risen me -[6182.86 --> 6189.86] And like a flood, His mercy reigns -[6189.86 --> 6194.86] Unending love, amazing grace -[6194.86 --> 6206.86] When we've been there ten thousand years -[6206.86 --> 6212.86] Bright shining as the sun -[6212.86 --> 6219.86] We've known last days to sing God's praise -[6219.86 --> 6225.86] Than when we first begun -[6225.86 --> 6231.86] My chains are gone, I've been set free -[6231.86 --> 6237.86] My God, my Savior, has risen me -[6237.86 --> 6244.86] And like a flood, His mercy reigns -[6244.86 --> 6246.86] Unending love, amazing grace -[6246.86 --> 6256.86] My chains are gone, I've been set free -[6256.86 --> 6262.86] My God, my Savior, has risen me -[6262.86 --> 6270.86] And like a flood, His mercy reigns -[6270.86 --> 6276.86] Unending love, amazing grace -[6276.86 --> 6297.86] Before you receive God's blessing, I want to invite you all to stick around after service for a time of... -[6297.86 --> 6299.86] Yeah, fellowship -[6299.86 --> 6300.86] Yeah, fellowship -[6300.86 --> 6302.86] I was going to see if anyone said koinonia -[6302.86 --> 6304.86] But a time of fellowship -[6304.86 --> 6307.86] And I encourage you, use that time to connect with someone -[6307.86 --> 6309.86] Maybe even someone new -[6309.86 --> 6312.86] Use that time to pray with someone -[6312.86 --> 6315.86] As they have need or as they are celebrating -[6315.86 --> 6317.86] If you would like prayer specifically -[6317.86 --> 6321.86] There will be someone here after service with a yellow name tag on -[6321.86 --> 6326.86] They would love to meet you and pray with you about whatever it is that you'd like lifted up in prayer -[6326.86 --> 6332.86] As you go, know that God goes with you and so receive His blessing -[6332.86 --> 6334.86] The promise of His presence -[6334.86 --> 6338.86] God goes before you to lead you -[6338.86 --> 6340.86] God goes behind you to protect you -[6340.86 --> 6343.86] God goes beneath you to support you -[6343.86 --> 6346.86] And God goes beside you to befriend you -[6346.86 --> 6348.86] Do not be afraid -[6348.86 --> 6350.86] Let the blessing of God come upon you today -[6350.86 --> 6352.86] Do not be afraid -[6352.86 --> 6357.86] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord -[6357.86 --> 6359.86] Amen -[6359.86 --> 6365.86] Behold He comes -[6365.86 --> 6367.86] Riding on the clouds -[6367.86 --> 6369.86] Shining like the sun -[6369.86 --> 6372.86] At the tropical -[6372.86 --> 6375.86] Lift your voice -[6375.86 --> 6377.86] To hear a jubilee -[6377.86 --> 6379.86] When you're weak -[6379.86 --> 6380.86] How리 -[6380.86 --> 6381.86] Know God -[6381.86 --> 6382.86] ποιなあ -[6382.86 --> 6383.86] 夢 -[6383.86 --> 6384.86] Is -[6384.86 --> 6385.86] To hear -[6385.86 --> 6386.86] Know -[6386.86 --> 6388.86] How -[6388.86 --> 6389.86] Since -[6389.86 --> 6390.86] 임 -[6407.86 --> 6417.86] is -[6417.86 --> 6421.90] From every day the way of love -[6421.90 --> 6424.26] The holy cross -[6424.26 --> 6426.48] Running on ground -[6426.48 --> 6428.68] Shining like the sun -[6428.68 --> 6432.96] After we call with your voice -[6432.96 --> 6435.16] Hear to me -[6435.16 --> 6439.56] How does time till salvation come? -[6442.84 --> 6445.72] With peace on the days of the Savior -[6445.72 --> 6450.62] The trials he died in his head -[6450.62 --> 6454.52] And these are the days of his servant -[6454.52 --> 6459.36] Day that he built in a temple of grace -[6459.36 --> 6463.94] And these are the days of the harvest -[6463.94 --> 6467.42] The fields are as high as the world -[6467.42 --> 6473.08] And we are the laborers in your favor -[6473.08 --> 6476.32] And declaring the word of the Lord -[6476.32 --> 6478.60] The holy cross -[6478.60 --> 6480.74] Lighting on ground -[6480.74 --> 6483.00] Shining like the sun -[6483.00 --> 6484.88] At the trumpet wall -[6484.88 --> 6487.28] With your voice -[6487.28 --> 6489.38] Hear to me -[6489.38 --> 6493.88] How does time till salvation come? -[6493.88 --> 6499.70] Climate Jet -[6499.70 --> 6499.96] There's no God like Jehovah -[6499.96 --> 6500.34] There's no God like Jehovah -[6500.34 --> 6503.20] There's no God like Jehovah -[6503.20 --> 6505.20] There's no God like Jehovah -[6505.20 --> 6506.74] There's no God like Jehovah -[6506.74 --> 6507.56] There's no God like Jehovah -[6507.56 --> 6507.96] There's no God like Jehovah -[6507.96 --> 6508.42] There's no God like Jehovah -[6508.42 --> 6508.94] There's no God like Jehovah -[6508.94 --> 6509.94] There's no God like Jehovah -[6509.94 --> 6511.20] There's no God like Jehovah -[6511.20 --> 6514.04] Let your heart be full. -[6514.04 --> 6519.50] Be calm, light on the clouds, shine a good sound. -[6519.50 --> 6523.84] At the trumpet call, lift your voice. -[6523.84 --> 6530.38] Hear a delivery, out of sight, till the salvation comes. -[6530.38 --> 6536.86] Be calm, light on the clouds, shine a good sound. -[6536.86 --> 6541.26] At the trumpet call, lift your voice. -[6541.26 --> 6549.10] Hear a delivery, out of sight, till the salvation comes. -[6566.86 --> 6573.86] ihr -[6583.30 --> 6584.80] am -[6585.98 --> 6589.14] overall -[6589.14 --> 6619.12] Thank you. -[6619.14 --> 6621.14] This was the Gonzalez, a come on weekend, -[6621.14 --> 6624.44] the winner, now, as you could head over to a video garden. -[6624.44 --> 6626.44] One in the last couple is a comeback. -[6626.44 --> 6627.44] Alice in the win too. -[6627.44 --> 6629.44] In the last couple is playing às часaults. -[6629.44 --> 6631.24] One in the last few am. -[6632.14 --> 6638.44] One in the last 13. -[6638.44 --> 6643.14] Curl by Oswaldovets Lopez to the impossible -[6643.14 --> 6654.70] This is turning theев4900 you know when signals look like a philor -[6655.14 --> 6661.38] Physical time to Center -[6661.54 --> 6664.38] In MBA -[6666.50 --> 6668.94] I can't believe something -[6668.94 --> 6698.92] Thank you. -[6698.94 --> 6728.92] Thank you. -[6728.94 --> 6758.92] Thank you. -[6758.94 --> 6788.92] Thank you. -[6788.94 --> 6790.94] Thank you. -[6790.94 --> 6792.94] Thank you. -[6792.94 --> 6794.94] Thank you. -[6794.94 --> 6796.94] Thank you. -[6824.94 --> 6826.94] Thank you. -[6826.94 --> 6828.94] Thank you. -[6828.94 --> 6832.94] Thank you. -[6832.94 --> 6834.94] Thank you. -[6834.94 --> 6840.94] Thank you. -[6840.94 --> 6842.94] Thank you. -[6842.94 --> 6844.94] Thank you. -[6844.94 --> 6874.92] Thank you. -[6874.94 --> 6904.92] Thank you. -[6904.94 --> 6934.92] Thank you. -[6934.94 --> 6964.92] Thank you. -[6964.94 --> 6994.92] Thank you. -[6994.94 --> 7024.92] Thank you. -[7024.94 --> 7054.92] Thank you. -[7054.94 --> 7084.92] Thank you. -[7084.94 --> 7114.92] Thank you. -[7114.94 --> 7144.92] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, July 28, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, July 28, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index fcad0569921ba1eab154014bd6669408333470ea..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, July 28, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,81 +0,0 @@ -• Welcome and introduction by Pastor Chris -• Announcement about Reactivate Youth Conference and need for volunteers -• Call to worship from Psalm 96 -• Singing of a new song with lyrics about God's glory and kingdom -• Lord's Prayer recited -• Blessing and honor given to the ancient of days -• Praise and worship to God as the ancient of days -• Discussing a song called "Desert Song" about praising God in difficult times -• Reflection on Hebrews 12:1-3 about running the Christian life with perseverance -• Encouragement to hold onto Jesus through all circumstances and praise Him in every season -• The importance of fixing one's eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith -• Christ enduring opposition from sinners for his joy set before him -• Encouragement not to grow weary or lose heart in the face of challenges -• Worshiping God as the Lion of the Lord with great power and authority -• The blood of Christ breaking chains and freeing us -• Daily bowing before Him in worship and praise -• Declarations of the Lord's almighty power and dominion -• Praise and thanksgiving to God, the Father, Son, and Spirit -• The congregation is invited to pray together, led by Elder Ken. -• A prayer is offered for the beauty of creation and God's power and love. -• Concerns are prayed for regarding war and conflict, wildfires, and health issues within the congregation. -• Specific prayers are offered for individuals including Imo and Benita, Clem, Everly, and a young family. -• The congregation is reminded to seek safety and protection during the summer season of travel and vacations. -• Pastor Chris's sermon is blessed with a request for open hearts and ears to hear God's will. -• The congregation is invited to participate in a children's activity where they draw pictures based on the sermon. -• Peter and John heal a lame man in the name of Jesus Christ -• The apostles are challenged by temple officials about their authority -• Peter gives a speech defending his actions, stating that healing was done through Jesus' name -• The rulers and elders question the apostles but can't deny the miracle -• They command Peter and John to stop preaching in Jesus' name -• Peter and John refuse, citing that they cannot help speaking about what they've seen and heard -• The rulers release them after further threats due to public pressure -• The disciples face potential persecution for their actions, but continue to boldly proclaim the gospel. -• Jesus commands his disciples to listen to him and obey everything he has commanded -• The command to obey is rooted in a moral obligation to God, but also comes with a cost as they will face opposition and persecution -• Disciples are willing to pay this price and choose obedience despite the risks -• In modern times, Christians may face government restrictions or persecution for sharing the gospel or calling for conversion -• The desire to obey is fueled by a deeper commitment to worshiping and magnifying Jesus -• The miraculous healing of a lame man from birth through faith in Jesus' name -• Peter explains the healing as the result of Jesus' name and the faith that comes through him -• The Holy Spirit's power and Jesus' name are the keys to understanding the healing -• The act of proclaiming Jesus' name is an expression of worship and magnification of His glories -• Human nature tends to proclaim and share amazing things, especially when they believe them to be magnificent -• The importance of magnifying or proclaiming something that is magnificent and miraculous -• The resurrection of Jesus as a miraculous reason for boldly proclaiming the gospel -• The experience of being touched by God in worship or seeing an unexpected answer to prayer -• Sharing personal stories of transformation and changed lives -• The mercy reason: salvation through no other name but Jesus Christ -• The Son of God is necessary for eternal life -• Jesus is the only way to the Father and salvation -• Exclusivity is inherent in any truth or claim -• The Bible teaches that salvation comes through faith in Christ, not through other means or methods -• The message of Christ's exclusivity is often misunderstood as arrogant, but it is simply a statement of fact based on God's Word -• Polycarp, the bishop of Smyrna, is arrested by Roman soldiers -• He welcomes his arrest calmly and asks for time to pray before going with them willingly -• At his trial, Quintus, the proconsul, urges him to renounce his faith and swear by Caesar's fortune to save his life -• Polycarp refuses to renounce his faith and responds that he has served Christ for 86 years and cannot blaspheme his king and savior -• He steadfastly refuses to renounce his faith despite being urged by Quintus -• Polycarp is being pressured by the proconsul to abandon his faith -• Polycarp remains unshaken and says the fire of judgment will be eternal for the ungodly, not temporary as threatened -• The crowd demands Polycarp be burned alive -• Polycarp prays while being lit on fire and miraculously is not harmed by it -• A Roman guard eventually kills Polycarp with a sword -• This story is used to illustrate the legacy of faith and the continued cost of proclaiming one's Christian beliefs -• A modern example of this is Pastor Andrew Bunsen, who was arrested in Turkey in 2016 on espionage and terrorism charges for his Christian beliefs -• The story of John Chow, a missionary who attempted to evangelize the Sentinelese people on North Sentinel Island -• Contrast between the two main interpretations: Chow as a colonizer or as someone faithful to God's call to preach the gospel -• Discussion of whether mercy, magnify, and moral reasons for not preaching are legitimate -• The importance of proclaiming Jesus Christ as the only name by which men must be saved -• Command from God to make disciples and teach others to obey in Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth (including remote islands) -• The importance of proclaiming the gospel -• Being bold in sharing one's faith, even with those who disagree or mock -• The command to listen to Jesus and share His message -• The power of God's grace and the Holy Spirit to guide and empower believers -• The need for courage and boldness to speak about what has been seen and heard -• Upcoming event: Praise by the Pond at the Den Hans -• Invitation to attend an event at the Den Hans for Praise by the Pond -• Offer of refreshments and fellowship after the event -• Blessings and prayers for attendees, including God's guidance, protection, support, and friendship -• Recitation of phrases in praise of Christ, such as "Christ eternal, the King of peace" -• Repeated expressions of gratitude and thanks \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, July 28, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, July 28, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 8a980e66ef28b6eaa4c92eff23cffa75fa550e94..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, July 28, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1289 +0,0 @@ -[0.92 --> 8.36] Welcome to worship. A special welcome if you are a guest with us in visiting this summer. -[8.54 --> 15.74] It's so good to gather together and to worship our good God and to praise the name of Jesus. -[15.92 --> 21.54] My name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors here, and it's my privilege, along with these others you see on stage, -[21.68 --> 25.14] to lead in our shared worship together this morning. -[25.14 --> 31.58] So, there's only one announcement that I am aware of before our service, -[31.74 --> 36.62] and that is just a reminder for you regular members and regular worshipers here. -[37.68 --> 40.48] Reactivate Youth Conference is coming up in September, -[40.48 --> 44.58] and we're looking for volunteers to help staff out that weekend event, -[44.62 --> 50.28] where we've got teenagers from Christian Reformed churches all over B.C. who come down here -[50.28 --> 56.26] and hang out for the weekend, worship God, and learn about what it means to be a disciple of Jesus. -[56.48 --> 61.58] And so, our church really steps up in hosting that and requires volunteers. -[61.82 --> 66.92] And so, there's a sign-up sheet for that that's in the e-bulletin that goes out every weekend. -[67.16 --> 71.02] And so, if you aren't signed up for the e-bulletin, you can talk to the office, -[71.22 --> 75.24] and they'll get you signed up, and then you can follow through the sign-up sheet there. -[75.24 --> 76.88] I believe that's it. -[77.64 --> 79.80] And so, unless someone tells me otherwise, -[80.72 --> 84.96] let's stand together, be welcomed into God's presence. -[87.22 --> 90.78] As we gather, we do so in the presence of God, -[90.88 --> 93.82] who is here in the power of the Holy Spirit. -[93.92 --> 97.24] And we mark that presence, we receive that presence, -[97.42 --> 102.26] and we stand in that presence by receiving the greeting of God. -[102.26 --> 106.70] And then we make that presence known by extending that greeting to each other. -[106.96 --> 109.34] And so, after I greet you in the Lord's name, -[109.40 --> 113.64] I encourage you to turn to those around you and to greet them in the name of Jesus. -[113.82 --> 117.00] You can say, peace of Christ be with you, or the Lord be with you, -[117.06 --> 119.04] or you can just say, hey, what's up? -[119.68 --> 120.86] However you want to do that. -[121.60 --> 123.44] Receive the greeting of our good God. -[123.44 --> 128.10] Grace, mercy, and peace to you, -[128.54 --> 129.64] from God our Father, -[129.98 --> 132.82] from the Lord Jesus Christ, His Son, and our Savior, -[133.38 --> 135.98] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[136.88 --> 137.26] Amen. -[137.86 --> 138.92] Greet one another in Christ. -[153.44 --> 170.72] This call to worship comes from Psalm 96. -[171.46 --> 173.32] Sing to the Lord a new song. -[173.70 --> 175.46] Sing to the Lord all the earth. -[175.86 --> 177.78] Sing to the Lord, praise His name. -[178.16 --> 180.50] Proclaim His salvation day after day. -[180.50 --> 183.38] Declare His glory among the nations. -[183.80 --> 186.50] His marvelous deeds among all peoples. -[186.50 --> 187.84] chant by Bible -[196.84 --> 198.62] neaiella -[198.62 --> 212.62] Oh God, I take heaven, how a redeemer I lay -[212.62 --> 219.62] I've been led to glory, I've been led to love you, God -[219.62 --> 230.62] Oh God, I remember the rocks high at your feet -[230.62 --> 237.62] I will let your glory come and let your glory fall -[237.62 --> 248.62] I will sing, sing a new song, I will sing, sing a new song -[248.62 --> 256.62] I will sing, sing a new song to the Lord -[256.62 --> 261.62] Let your kingdom come and let your will be done -[261.62 --> 265.62] For earth as it is in heaven -[265.62 --> 270.62] Every hour will gain, just the hour will gain -[270.62 --> 275.62] For earth as it is in heaven -[275.62 --> 292.62] Forgive us, you every morning, mercy is daily bread -[292.62 --> 300.62] In the name of Jesus, in the name of Jesus we pray -[300.62 --> 310.62] And lead us not to temptation, but deliver us with your hand -[310.62 --> 318.62] For in the name of Jesus, in the name of Jesus we pray -[318.62 --> 326.62] I will sing, sing a new song -[326.62 --> 335.62] I will sing, sing a new song to the Lord -[335.62 --> 339.62] Let your kingdom come and let your will be done -[339.62 --> 343.62] On earth as it is in heaven -[343.62 --> 347.62] Every heart proclaim the mercy of your name -[347.62 --> 352.62] On earth as it is in heaven -[352.62 --> 357.62] For the kingdom is yours and the power is yours -[357.62 --> 362.62] And the glory forever, amen -[362.62 --> 372.62] For the kingdom is yours and the power is yours -[372.62 --> 382.62] And the glory forever, amen -[382.62 --> 384.62] And the kingdom is yours and the power is yours -[384.62 --> 386.62] And the glory forever, amen -[386.62 --> 390.62] Let your kingdom come, let your will be done -[390.62 --> 396.62] On earth as it is in heaven -[396.62 --> 400.62] Every heart proclaim the mercy of your name -[400.62 --> 406.62] On earth as it is in heaven -[406.62 --> 408.62] In life -[408.62 --> 414.62] Every heart proclaim the mercy of your name -[414.62 --> 419.62] frustrate, amen -[419.62 --> 422.12] On earth as it is Warren -[422.62 --> 423.62] There many others -[423.62 --> 424.62] For scène as it is written -[424.62 --> 429.62] For a kingdom, retreat -[429.62 --> 430.62] Even with half Thin -[430.62 --> 431.62] Amen -[431.62 --> 433.62] Lord -[433.62 --> 435.62] Amen -[435.62 --> 456.20] Blessing and honor, glory and power, be unto the ancient of days. -[456.20 --> 466.02] All of every nation, all of creation, now before the ancient of days. -[467.22 --> 472.20] Every town in heaven and earth shall declare your glory. -[472.46 --> 480.28] Every shall mount your throne, in worship you will be exalted, O God. -[480.28 --> 488.14] And your kingdom shall not come to the end, O ancient of days. -[491.78 --> 500.60] Blessing and honor, glory and power, be unto the ancient of days. -[500.60 --> 510.10] All of every nation, all of creation, now before the ancient of days. -[511.10 --> 516.40] Every town in heaven and earth shall declare your glory. -[516.60 --> 524.46] Every year shall mount your throne, in worship you will be exalted, O God. -[524.46 --> 532.16] And your kingdom shall not pass away, O ancient of days. -[534.96 --> 544.46] Your kingdom shall reign over all the earth, sing unto the ancient of days. -[544.46 --> 553.96] For none can compare to your master's throne, sing unto the ancient of days. -[554.96 --> 560.60] All of every town in heaven and earth shall declare your glory. -[560.60 --> 568.40] Every year shall mount your throne, in worship you will be exalted, O God. -[568.40 --> 576.00] And your kingdom shall not pass away, O ancient of days. -[581.90 --> 592.32] Our next song that we will be singing has the lyrics, -[593.00 --> 595.74] I will bring praise, I will bring praise. -[595.74 --> 600.22] No weapon that's formed me against me shall remain. -[600.46 --> 606.02] I will rejoice, I will declare, God is my victory and he is here. -[607.10 --> 612.84] It struck me that this is a chorus in a song with a title, Desert Song. -[613.66 --> 616.48] We all go through our moments in the desert. -[617.32 --> 620.04] Some of you may be experiencing this right now. -[620.04 --> 625.24] It may be sin that so easily entangles, like it says in Hebrews. -[625.76 --> 629.92] Or perhaps it's pain or sorrow or hurt. -[630.84 --> 635.06] In all these moments, though, we are called to declare praise. -[636.00 --> 643.24] It may be in those times of praise during the desert that someone is encouraged in their faith because of how we are responding. -[643.24 --> 648.60] So hold on to Jesus, no matter your circumstance. -[650.00 --> 654.88] Let's take a few moments to focus our hearts on Jesus now in silent prayer, -[655.46 --> 659.26] asking him for the strength to praise in all circumstances. -[659.26 --> 660.26] Amen. -[660.38 --> 664.78] Amen. -[669.94 --> 670.76] Amen. -[677.76 --> 679.70] Amen. -[679.70 --> 681.20] Amen. -[681.20 --> 682.28] Amen. -[682.70 --> 684.44] Amen. -[684.44 --> 685.48] Amen. -[685.48 --> 687.40] Amen. -[687.40 --> 687.76] Amen. -[688.14 --> 688.74] Amen. -[688.74 --> 703.94] This is my prayer in the desert -[703.94 --> 709.34] When all that's within me feels dry -[709.34 --> 715.92] This is my prayer in my hunger and need -[715.92 --> 720.18] My God is the God who provides -[720.18 --> 725.34] This is my prayer in the fire -[725.34 --> 731.12] In weakness or trial or pain -[731.12 --> 736.82] There is a breakthrough for work and go -[736.82 --> 740.80] So refine me, Lord, through the flame -[740.80 --> 746.14] I will bring praise, I will bring praise -[746.14 --> 750.80] No weapon formed against me shall remain -[750.80 --> 755.64] I will rejoice, I will declare -[755.64 --> 760.80] God is my victory and He is here -[760.80 --> 774.06] This is my prayer in the battle -[774.06 --> 778.74] When triumph is still on its way -[778.74 --> 785.06] I am a conqueror and poor and will rise -[785.06 --> 789.10] So firm on His promise I'll stand -[789.10 --> 794.24] I will bring praise, I will bring praise -[794.24 --> 799.06] No weapon formed against me shall remain -[799.06 --> 803.72] I will rejoice, I will declare -[803.72 --> 810.06] God is my victory and He is me -[810.06 --> 822.98] All of my life, in every season -[822.98 --> 829.52] You are still God, I have a reason to sing -[829.52 --> 836.52] I have a reason to sing -[836.52 --> 838.52] I have a reason to sing -[838.52 --> 843.52] All of my life, in every season -[843.52 --> 849.52] You are still God, I have a reason to sing -[849.52 --> 862.84] I have a reason to sing -[862.84 --> 864.48] I have a reason to sing -[864.52 --> 866.52] I have a reason to sing -[866.52 --> 868.56] I have a reason to sing -[868.56 --> 870.56] to sing -[871.36 --> 878.56] i have a reason to worship -[878.88 --> 882.56] all of my life -[886.16 --> 890.56] i have a reason to sing -[890.96 --> 896.56] i have a reason to worship -[896.56 --> 900.56] i will bring praise -[900.56 --> 902.56] i will bring praise -[902.56 --> 906.56] no weapon fought against me shall remain -[906.56 --> 908.56] i will rejoice -[908.56 --> 910.56] i will declare -[910.56 --> 912.56] god is my victory -[912.56 --> 916.56] and he is here -[916.56 --> 930.56] this is my prayer in the harvest -[930.56 --> 932.56] favor and providence -[932.56 --> 934.56] flow -[934.56 --> 936.56] i know -[936.56 --> 938.56] i feel to be -[938.56 --> 940.56] empty again -[940.56 --> 942.56] the seed i've received -[942.56 --> 952.56] i will sow -[952.56 --> 956.56] please stand as we hear the words of viewers -[956.56 --> 966.56] can -[966.56 --> 968.56] we -[968.56 --> 974.56] day -[974.56 --> 976.56] night -[976.56 --> 981.10] It helps if you turn it on. -[984.64 --> 989.64] Hebrews 12, verse 1 to 3, for assurance. -[990.46 --> 991.00] It says, -[991.00 --> 995.10] Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, -[995.84 --> 1000.78] let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, -[1000.78 --> 1007.48] and let us run with perseverance the race marked before us, -[1008.08 --> 1011.52] fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. -[1012.12 --> 1015.44] For the joy set before him, he endured the cross, -[1016.20 --> 1021.52] scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. -[1022.10 --> 1025.40] Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, -[1025.82 --> 1028.56] so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. -[1030.78 --> 1060.38] Lord, let us pray. -[1060.78 --> 1065.10] I reach in the name -[1065.10 --> 1066.96] With love and grace -[1066.96 --> 1069.24] And God is free -[1069.24 --> 1071.94] On the top of the Lord -[1071.94 --> 1073.78] All I need -[1073.78 --> 1077.34] Our God is the Lion -[1077.34 --> 1080.08] The Lion of the Lord -[1080.08 --> 1082.58] He warred the power -[1082.58 --> 1085.14] With mighty power -[1085.14 --> 1088.14] Every love will come -[1088.14 --> 1089.98] Before Him -[1089.98 --> 1093.36] The Lord is the Lion -[1093.36 --> 1095.38] The Lion of the Lord -[1095.38 --> 1098.92] For the sins of the Lord -[1098.92 --> 1101.66] His blood breaks the chain -[1101.66 --> 1104.30] Every day we bow -[1104.30 --> 1107.08] For the Lion of the Lord -[1107.08 --> 1109.76] Every day we bow -[1109.76 --> 1111.68] Before Him -[1111.68 --> 1112.18] Ha ha h… -[1112.28 --> 1114.14] The Lion of the Lord -[1114.14 --> 1115.14] Amen. -[1144.14 --> 1146.14] Amen. -[1174.14 --> 1176.14] Amen. -[1193.60 --> 1198.12] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[1198.12 --> 1228.10] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[1228.12 --> 1232.12] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[1234.12 --> 1237.12] Who can stop the Lord? -[1237.12 --> 1239.12] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[1239.12 --> 1241.12] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[1241.12 --> 1243.12] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[1243.12 --> 1245.12] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[1245.12 --> 1247.12] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[1247.12 --> 1249.12] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[1249.12 --> 1251.12] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[1251.12 --> 1253.12] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[1253.12 --> 1261.70] Who can tr -[1262.12 --> 1266.12] Who can stop the Lord Almighty? -[1266.12 --> 1266.60] Amen. -[1266.60 --> 1296.58] Thank you. -[1296.60 --> 1326.58] Thank you. -[1326.60 --> 1328.60] Thank you. -[1356.60 --> 1358.60] Thank you. -[1386.60 --> 1388.60] Thank you. -[1416.60 --> 1418.60] Thank you. -[1418.60 --> 1420.60] Thank you. -[1420.60 --> 1422.60] Thank you. -[1422.60 --> 1424.60] Thank you. -[1424.60 --> 1426.60] Thank you. -[1426.60 --> 1428.60] Thank you. -[1454.60 --> 1456.60] Thank you. -[1484.60 --> 1486.60] Thank you. -[1486.60 --> 1488.60] Thank you. -[1488.60 --> 1490.60] Thank you. -[1490.60 --> 1492.60] Thank you. -[1492.60 --> 1494.60] Thank you. -[1494.60 --> 1508.60] Praise the Father, praise the Son, praise the Spirit, free in honor. -[1508.60 --> 1522.60] God of glory, majesty, praise forever to the King of the King. -[1522.60 --> 1524.60] Thank you. -[1524.60 --> 1526.60] Thank you. -[1526.60 --> 1528.60] Thank you. -[1528.60 --> 1530.60] Thank you. -[1530.60 --> 1532.60] Thank you. -[1532.60 --> 1534.60] Thank you. -[1534.60 --> 1536.60] Thank you. -[1536.60 --> 1538.60] Thank you. -[1538.60 --> 1540.60] Thank you. -[1540.60 --> 1542.60] Thank you. -[1542.60 --> 1544.60] Thank you. -[1544.60 --> 1548.78] And the angels stood in awe -[1548.78 --> 1551.60] For the souls of all who come -[1552.12 --> 1555.76] To the Father of His soul -[1555.76 --> 1558.60] When the curse of Christ was born -[1559.16 --> 1562.88] And the Spirit lit the flame -[1562.88 --> 1565.60] Does His gospel truth of all -[1566.40 --> 1569.96] Who shall not heal and fail of faith -[1569.96 --> 1573.46] By His blood and His name -[1573.46 --> 1576.96] In His freedom I am free -[1576.96 --> 1580.50] For the love of Jesus Christ -[1580.50 --> 1584.82] Good and perfect in me -[1584.82 --> 1593.56] Praise the Father -[1593.56 --> 1596.90] Praise the Son -[1596.90 --> 1600.90] Praise the Spirit -[1600.90 --> 1604.40] Three in one -[1604.40 --> 1607.94] God of glory -[1607.94 --> 1608.94] Spread His terror -[1608.94 --> 1611.48] For the love I am free -[1611.82 --> 1613.52] Pharaoh -[1613.52 --> 1632.36] Praise the Father, praise the Son, praise the Spirit, three in one. -[1632.36 --> 1648.74] God of glory, majesty, praise forever to the King of Peace. -[1662.36 --> 1674.18] All right. Can I have kids who are aged three to kindergarten? Is that right? -[1675.82 --> 1682.46] Sure, why not? Maybe even older. Come on up to the front. We're going to pray together, -[1682.76 --> 1689.68] and then we're going to do the kids' blessing, and those of you whose parents know and have given -[1689.68 --> 1694.72] you permission may head to the back for a special children's worship time together. -[1696.14 --> 1700.68] You guys ready? You excited? Can we pray together? Let's pray for a minute. -[1701.90 --> 1709.00] Lord Jesus, we thank you for the truth that out of the mouths of children and infants you have -[1709.00 --> 1715.24] ordained praise. We thank you for these little ones among us, and we pray a blessing on them as they -[1715.24 --> 1722.58] go to learn about you. Father God, show them your love. In Jesus' name, amen. -[1723.84 --> 1727.22] All right, you guys stand up together, and everybody else can stand as well. -[1728.58 --> 1733.88] I'm going to invite you, congregation, to hold your hands up, and then after the kids say, -[1733.96 --> 1738.30] the Lord be with you, you're going to respond by saying, and also with you. Ready, guys? Together. -[1738.30 --> 1743.30] The Lord be with you. Amen. -[1745.24 --> 1768.60] Good morning. My name is Ken. I'm an elder here at Emanuel Church, and this morning I have the -[1768.60 --> 1774.22] privilege of leading us as a congregation together to our Lord in prayer. So let's bow our heads and -[1774.22 --> 1781.38] our hearts together, and let's pray to our God. Lord of all creation, we come to you on this -[1781.38 --> 1787.72] beautiful sunny Sunday morning, joyfully singing your praises along with your creation. The heavens -[1787.72 --> 1794.24] declare the glory of God. The floods lift up their voice. The rivers clap their hands. The mountains -[1794.24 --> 1799.96] praise the Lord. We thank you, God, for the beauty all around us and the testimony it is to your amazing -[1799.96 --> 1805.66] power and love. That as God of the universe, you are mindful of each of us, and we're willing to -[1805.66 --> 1812.16] sacrifice your Son to save us from our sins. But amid the shouting and rejoicing of the heavens and the -[1812.16 --> 1818.00] earth, we can hear the sound of creation's groans too, Lord. There's a lot of pain and strife in our -[1818.00 --> 1824.58] world today. Help us remember that present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be -[1824.58 --> 1830.62] revealed in us. Lord, we pray for the many people who are presently living in a time and place of war -[1830.62 --> 1837.02] and conflict. We think of Israel and Palestine, Russia and Ukraine, but also the dozens of other -[1837.02 --> 1843.86] armed conflicts presently ongoing that we can so easily forget. Help us not take the peace we live in -[1843.86 --> 1851.16] for granted, but help us proclaim the peace of God that surpasses all understanding. Lord, we pray for the -[1851.16 --> 1857.64] many people affected by wildfires this season. We see fires in California, Alberta, and here in BC with -[1857.64 --> 1863.94] devastating property damage, destroyed communities, and displaced people. Give strength to those who are -[1863.94 --> 1870.50] fighting the fires and to those who are dealing with the aftermath of them. Lord, we pray for healing for -[1870.50 --> 1875.66] those in our congregation who have various ailments and health concerns at this time. Lord, you heal the -[1875.66 --> 1884.00] brokenhearted and bind up our wounds. We lift up Imo and Benita as Imo's open heart surgery has been pushed -[1884.00 --> 1890.02] out to later in August. Lord, we ask that you allow the surgery to take place and that it will be successful. -[1891.40 --> 1897.74] Lord, we praise you with Clem as he had a successful and long-awaited knee surgery and is now getting back on -[1897.74 --> 1905.54] his feet, feeling relief from a long ongoing pain. Lord, we pray for continued healing for Everly as she has an -[1905.54 --> 1911.02] MRI to ensure that everything is clear. And Lord, we pray for your nearness to this young family. -[1912.36 --> 1918.36] Lord, we also pray for those who quietly struggle with physical and mental health challenges and any -[1918.36 --> 1924.86] other struggles and difficulties at this time. Lord, help us to know that we are not alone, but you are -[1924.86 --> 1932.56] near to us always, and help us to turn to you in our times of struggle. God, as we're in the summer season -[1932.56 --> 1939.66] of vacations and travel, we ask for safety and your protection for each one of us. Help us find times -[1939.66 --> 1947.76] of refreshing and reflection on your love and grace, and help us still our hearts and open your word -[1947.76 --> 1954.36] and hear you speak to us regularly. And Lord, today in the service, as we open your word this morning, -[1954.48 --> 1960.30] we ask for your blessing on Pastor Chris as he brings us your message. Open our hearts and ears to hear -[1960.30 --> 1967.54] your will for our lives today. And as we go out from this place to wherever you lead us. Lord, we ask all these -[1967.54 --> 1972.76] things in your blessed name and in the grace of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen. -[1972.76 --> 1972.84] Amen. -[1987.90 --> 1998.02] This morning we're going to read from Acts 4. I'm going to read before we begin the first 22 verses -[1998.02 --> 2005.22] in that story for us, and then we'll spend some time looking at that. The first time through, -[2005.34 --> 2010.42] you'll see it on the screen, but I encourage you, as always, to either have a Bible you brought from -[2010.42 --> 2015.42] home or one on your phone or device, or if you would like, you can grab one from the back there, -[2015.62 --> 2021.66] turn that to Acts 4 and keep that open, because we will be referring back to that text pretty regularly -[2021.66 --> 2030.68] throughout our time together. Additionally, this summer, I have a special call out to the kids, -[2030.76 --> 2035.60] especially the kids who normally go to our children's worship time during the regular school -[2035.60 --> 2042.06] year. The clipboards at the back, actually, you can thank Maria from the office for this, -[2042.46 --> 2046.84] have on them now a piece of paper that is just left blank and says, -[2046.84 --> 2051.58] a picture for Pastor Chris based on the sermon. So, I'm collecting your pictures this summer, -[2052.22 --> 2057.72] and I'm going to make a little book of them all. And so, if you draw a picture or hear something that -[2057.72 --> 2063.04] I say and sparks an idea or an image or something, I encourage you to just draw that out, and then if -[2063.04 --> 2067.52] you're willing, let me have that after the service. Or if you want to keep it, I'll make a copy of it, -[2067.56 --> 2073.14] and you can keep the original. But that would be great for me and for tracking what we hear and -[2073.14 --> 2081.00] receive from God as we gather around His Word. With that in mind, let's read together from Acts 4. -[2086.44 --> 2096.36] A little bit of context. Peter and John were walking near the temple, and there was a man, -[2096.36 --> 2103.92] we are told in Acts 3, who was lame from birth. That is, he wasn't able to walk. His entire life, -[2104.10 --> 2108.86] he wasn't able to walk. And at the very end of the chapter, we're going to read verse 22, -[2109.40 --> 2118.52] we're told that he's 40 years old, this man. And so, for 40 years, he had been lame and unable to walk, -[2118.62 --> 2125.40] and for most of his adult years, probably, friends of his or family members of his carded him to -[2125.40 --> 2130.78] one of the temple gates called Beautiful, and he would sit there and beg, asking for money. -[2131.62 --> 2136.28] Peter and John walk by, and hear this man begging, and Peter turns to him and says, -[2136.40 --> 2141.74] silver and gold I do not have, but what I have I will give in the name of Jesus Christ. Stand up and -[2141.74 --> 2147.58] walk. And immediately, we're told, he gets up, he walks, and he goes walking and leaping and praising -[2147.58 --> 2151.94] God. If you grew up in the 80s or 90s, you're probably singing the song in your head right now. -[2151.94 --> 2158.34] And he went out, and Peter and John, now, in the text that we are about to read, -[2159.02 --> 2166.22] are called in front of the leading officials and the temple officials, asking them, challenging them, -[2166.56 --> 2171.12] by what power and authority do they do these things? So that's where we are in the story. -[2171.12 --> 2173.10] Chapter 4. -[2174.20 --> 2179.86] The priests and the captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees came up to Peter and John while -[2179.86 --> 2185.22] they were speaking to the people. They were greatly disturbed because the apostles were teaching the -[2185.22 --> 2191.60] people, proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead. They seized Peter and John, and because it -[2191.60 --> 2197.26] was evening, they put them in jail until the next day. But many who heard the message believed, -[2197.26 --> 2204.14] so the number of men who believed grew to about 5,000. The next day, the rulers, the elders, and -[2204.14 --> 2210.56] the teachers of the law met in Jerusalem. Annas, the high priest, was there, and so were Caiaphas, -[2210.70 --> 2216.96] John, Alexander, and others of the high priest's family. They had Peter and John brought before -[2216.96 --> 2225.04] them and began to question them, by what power or what name did you do this? Then Peter, filled with -[2225.04 --> 2231.82] the Holy Spirit, said to them, rulers and elders of the people, if we are being called to account -[2231.82 --> 2237.56] today for an act of kindness shown to a man who was lame and are being asked how he was healed, -[2237.98 --> 2245.34] then know this, you and all the people of Israel, it is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, -[2245.48 --> 2251.66] whom you crucified, but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. -[2251.66 --> 2261.04] Jesus is the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone. Salvation is found in -[2261.04 --> 2266.84] no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved. -[2268.62 --> 2274.78] When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, -[2275.06 --> 2278.84] they were astonished and took note that these men had been with Jesus. -[2278.84 --> 2284.80] But since they could see the men who had been healed standing there with them, there was nothing -[2284.80 --> 2290.82] they could say. So they ordered them to withdraw from the Sanhedrin and then conferred together. -[2292.14 --> 2297.28] What are we going to do with these men? They asked. Everyone living in Jerusalem knows they have -[2297.28 --> 2303.50] performed a notable sign. We cannot deny it, but to stop this thing from spreading any further among the -[2303.50 --> 2311.06] people, we must warn them to speak no longer to anyone in this name. Then they called Peter and -[2311.06 --> 2316.66] John in again and commanded them not to preach or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John -[2316.66 --> 2327.74] replied, which is right in God's eyes, to listen to you or to him? You be the judges. As for us, -[2327.74 --> 2335.96] we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard. And after further threats, they let them go. -[2336.70 --> 2341.20] They could not decide how to punish them because all the people were praising God for what had -[2341.20 --> 2348.62] happened. For the man who was miraculously healed was over 40 years old. This is the word of the Lord. -[2348.62 --> 2360.44] Now, there's a lot going on in this story, but for our time together this morning, I want to focus on -[2360.44 --> 2368.00] one idea that really comes out of verse 20. Verse 20 is part of Peter's response, and he says, -[2368.38 --> 2376.74] as for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard. Peter and John cannot help -[2376.74 --> 2382.64] speaking. Now, what that means is they can't but speak, right? There's nothing that's going to stop -[2382.64 --> 2389.08] them from telling the people in front of them, whoever they happen to be, and whatever it might cost -[2389.08 --> 2398.18] them what they have seen and heard and experienced and witnessed. Even if it costs them social capital, -[2398.58 --> 2404.58] even if it costs them the pleasure of and the goodwill of the people around them, even if it costs -[2404.58 --> 2410.90] them political power, even if it costs them an opportunity to influence leaders, even if it -[2410.90 --> 2421.08] costs them their lives, they cannot help but speak. This is a continuation of a theme in many respects. -[2421.62 --> 2430.98] At Pentecost, recorded for us in Acts 2, what this not helping but speak looked like is that -[2430.98 --> 2437.56] the crowds that had gathered from all over Jerusalem thought the disciples were drunk, -[2438.34 --> 2445.18] and they laughed at them, right? That's a social capital that they forfeited, that they had to -[2446.62 --> 2453.30] endure. Here in this story, it refers to the political and religious elites, which are sort of -[2453.30 --> 2460.06] one in the same in Jerusalem, the powerful of Jewish society. It's costing them political standing. -[2460.98 --> 2466.86] And puts them in prison overnight. Later in the book of Acts, in front of the Roman authorities, -[2466.86 --> 2474.48] it's going to cost some of them their lives. But still, even with all of that, they cannot help -[2474.48 --> 2481.76] but speak about what they've seen and what they've heard. And that's really our theme for this morning -[2481.76 --> 2489.46] from Acts 4, right? A boldness in proclaiming the gospel despite the cost. Boldness in proclaiming the -[2489.46 --> 2496.40] gospel despite what it might cost the disciples to do. Now, I want to suggest this morning, -[2497.02 --> 2504.00] and what we'll frame the rest of our time together around, is there are at least three reasons from our -[2504.00 --> 2510.64] text why Peter and John and the rest of the apostles and the rest of the early church lived and -[2510.64 --> 2519.04] experienced and proclaimed out of this boldness. And those three reasons, there's a moral reason, -[2519.72 --> 2528.04] there's what I'm calling a magnify reason, and there's a mercy reason. Three Ms. Moral, magnify, mercy. -[2529.12 --> 2535.52] And so let's start with that first one, the moral reason. To put it simply and plainly, -[2535.52 --> 2542.88] the moral reason that they have to boldly proclaim is because Jesus told them to. He commanded them -[2542.88 --> 2550.22] to. They were commanded by God to listen to Jesus. Actually, in the story of the transfiguration, -[2550.46 --> 2556.90] one of the places you can read about that is in Matthew 17. Jesus takes Peter, James, and John, -[2557.12 --> 2562.78] the same Peter and John that we read about in Acts 4. He takes them up a mountain, and before them, -[2562.78 --> 2569.54] Jesus is transfigured. And what that means is he appears before them, his clothes are white as -[2569.54 --> 2577.12] light, and his face shines like the sun, and beside him in this glory cloud appears Moses and Elijah, -[2577.12 --> 2586.18] and they hear a voice from heaven that says, this is my son whom I love. With him I am well pleased. -[2586.18 --> 2596.88] Listen to him. Right? The voice of God the Father says, listen to him. Obey him. God the Father speaks -[2596.88 --> 2603.94] from heaven, and he tells his disciples who are standing there, listen to my son. And at the end -[2603.94 --> 2610.06] of the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus commands those same disciples, right, not just Peter, James, and John, -[2610.06 --> 2617.34] but all of them. He commands them in Matthew 28, saying, therefore go, make disciples of all nations, -[2617.50 --> 2622.54] baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to -[2622.54 --> 2629.32] obey everything I have commanded you. And it's the same thing in the beginning of the book of Acts, -[2629.46 --> 2636.98] right? In chapter 1, before his ascension to heaven, Jesus says to the disciples, you will receive power -[2636.98 --> 2641.56] when the Holy Spirit when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, -[2641.56 --> 2650.04] and Judea, and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Right? Jesus commands them, go, make disciples, -[2650.84 --> 2663.34] baptize them, teach them, be my witnesses. And so there's a moral reason for them to obey. Even -[2663.34 --> 2670.22] though, Jesus warned them that when he gave these kinds of commands, it would be hard for them, -[2670.60 --> 2676.56] and they would face opposition. There would be a cost to it, right? Jesus explicitly says that the -[2676.56 --> 2684.24] world would hate them, right? In John 15, Jesus says, if the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated -[2684.24 --> 2692.48] me first. And if you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to -[2692.48 --> 2700.58] the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. And when Jesus sent -[2700.58 --> 2707.40] the 12 disciples out in Matthew again, he said, you will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one -[2707.40 --> 2714.72] who stands firm to the end will be saved. Right? The disciples knew the cost, and they knew the command, -[2714.72 --> 2724.64] and they would choose to obey the command of Jesus even with the cost. That's why Peter asks in verse 19, -[2724.76 --> 2731.04] he says, which is right in God's eyes? Verse 19 of our text, chapter 4, which is right in God's eyes, -[2731.12 --> 2741.44] to listen to you or to him? Right? If the choice is between obeying God or heeding the opinions of the -[2741.44 --> 2751.90] world, disciples of Jesus choose obeying God. Now, fast forward 2,000 years, and this question is just -[2751.90 --> 2758.44] as prescient for us. Right? What happens, and I don't want to fear monger, but I want to propose a -[2758.44 --> 2766.62] possibility to you. What happens if our government, and God forbid this ever becomes true, but what -[2766.62 --> 2774.84] happens if our government decided that calling for conversion, like genuine conversion, right? -[2775.42 --> 2781.40] Repentance of life and sin, and walking away from what the Bible calls sin, what happens if our -[2781.40 --> 2789.44] government ever said that's hate speech? Are we willing to pay that price and still call for the -[2789.44 --> 2797.22] conversion of people to Jesus? Are we willing to obey in the face of a loss of social capital or -[2797.22 --> 2802.56] privilege? Are we willing to pay in the face of fines that might be given or prison that might result? -[2805.40 --> 2809.32] Now, there are places in the world where this is already happening. -[2811.06 --> 2815.44] Are we willing to do that? Are we willing to endure that? -[2815.44 --> 2823.70] What about Christians in other parts of the world? I know a young woman, a friend of ours, who's a missionary -[2823.70 --> 2831.28] in a North African country where it's illegal to be a missionary, and she has to very carefully -[2831.28 --> 2838.66] code her communications back to her supporters and her family, in part because she's worried that that -[2838.66 --> 2842.74] email or that letter might be intercepted by the government and looked at. -[2842.74 --> 2853.38] And if there's any mention of Jesus or mission or gospel in there, she's threatened, likely, with prison. -[2854.72 --> 2862.74] And yet, this woman remains there and has for years quietly serving and seeing Jesus transform lives -[2862.74 --> 2864.62] in this community that she lives in. -[2864.62 --> 2872.96] And I've talked with missionaries and with pastors who've served in China or who have snuck across the border into North Korea, -[2872.96 --> 2878.88] some of whom have been arrested and served time in prison, that the price that they are willing to pay -[2878.88 --> 2885.48] and a cross that they are willing to bear because they are choosing obedience to God first. -[2885.48 --> 2892.92] Now, these are really important realities for us to consider, really important questions for us to ask. -[2893.46 --> 2898.08] And because of that, I also think it's important for us to see that their desire to obey, -[2898.22 --> 2909.76] the disciples' desire to obey, must be fueled by something deeper than just a commitment to right or wrong, -[2909.76 --> 2912.64] than just a commitment to the rule of God. -[2915.28 --> 2922.16] I think we see that in our text, which is the second reason that we have, the magnify reason. -[2922.98 --> 2930.46] And when I use the word magnify, what I mean is the make-much-of-Jesus reason, the worshipful reason, right? -[2930.46 --> 2941.76] There's something supernatural, otherworldly, beautifully transcendent about why the disciple makes the bold choice to proclaim the gospel. -[2942.30 --> 2948.80] Notice in verse 7, right, the question that is asked of Peter and John is, -[2949.00 --> 2952.04] by what power or what name did you do this? -[2953.00 --> 2957.76] Now, again, remember, Peter and John are called in front of the priests and the temple guards -[2957.76 --> 2960.76] and the Sadducees, the rulers and the elders, the teachers of the law, -[2961.10 --> 2965.76] all of the movers and shakers and power players of the Jewish population, -[2966.62 --> 2972.82] to explain how it is and why it is that a man who was lame from birth, -[2972.98 --> 2975.72] who sat begging and was known by everyone, -[2976.12 --> 2981.16] is now standing and singing and shouting and jumping in praise to God. -[2982.36 --> 2983.66] How could that happen? -[2983.66 --> 2988.80] Peter explains in verse 16 of chapter 3, he says, -[2989.22 --> 2994.34] By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. -[2994.90 --> 2999.50] It is Jesus' name and the faith that comes through him that has completely healed him, -[2999.94 --> 3001.72] as you can all see. -[3003.28 --> 3007.18] And so now in our text, the leaders ask that same question, -[3007.30 --> 3010.48] by what power or name did you do this? -[3010.48 --> 3013.26] And then we have two answers. -[3014.04 --> 3015.76] In verse 8, we read, -[3016.18 --> 3019.90] Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them. -[3020.84 --> 3024.18] That little line, filled with the Holy Spirit, is crucial, -[3024.52 --> 3026.38] because it's the power of the Holy Spirit, -[3026.68 --> 3028.74] whom they have received at Pentecost, -[3028.84 --> 3033.04] and whom has charged them and made them to be witnesses. -[3034.08 --> 3036.88] Jesus commanded them to wait on the Spirit, -[3036.88 --> 3039.18] and now they're following his command, -[3039.48 --> 3040.62] having received the Spirit, -[3040.70 --> 3042.52] to be witnesses and to make disciples, -[3042.86 --> 3044.22] and to teach others to obey, -[3044.34 --> 3047.82] to boldly and with courage proclaim the gospel. -[3049.00 --> 3051.62] And then Peter, in the power of the Holy Spirit, -[3051.72 --> 3052.42] he tells them, -[3052.94 --> 3056.28] It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, -[3056.38 --> 3057.52] whom you crucified, -[3058.04 --> 3059.94] but whom God raised from the dead, -[3060.12 --> 3062.96] that this man stands before you healed. -[3062.96 --> 3066.20] It is by the name of Jesus Christ. -[3067.50 --> 3069.30] By what power or what name? -[3069.80 --> 3073.32] The Holy Spirit and the name of Jesus. -[3074.56 --> 3074.94] Right? -[3075.04 --> 3078.56] This is the magnification of Jesus' name -[3078.56 --> 3082.38] that answers the how and the why they must boldly proclaim. -[3082.64 --> 3084.96] It's this magnification of Jesus' name -[3084.96 --> 3086.86] and the power of the Holy Spirit -[3086.86 --> 3090.22] that makes them able to obey the moral reason -[3090.22 --> 3092.52] and want to live in that way -[3092.52 --> 3094.64] and to declare as they have been called. -[3094.96 --> 3095.04] Right? -[3095.10 --> 3098.68] The act of proclaiming the name of Jesus Christ -[3098.68 --> 3101.58] is lauding the glories of Christ. -[3102.02 --> 3105.02] And just as the man who was healed -[3105.02 --> 3107.46] went walking and leaping and praising God, -[3107.60 --> 3110.94] so too Peter and John go praising God -[3110.94 --> 3113.62] by their proclamation of the name of Jesus, -[3113.80 --> 3116.86] by their proclamation of the life, death, resurrection, -[3116.86 --> 3119.44] and exaltation of Jesus. -[3120.90 --> 3124.46] Their ongoing worship moves them -[3124.46 --> 3127.50] to magnify Jesus in the streets. -[3128.00 --> 3129.50] They cannot but help it. -[3130.46 --> 3134.22] They cannot help speaking about what they have seen and heard -[3134.22 --> 3135.84] because it is magnificent. -[3137.94 --> 3139.76] And let's be real candid here -[3139.76 --> 3142.68] because it's human nature, I believe, -[3142.78 --> 3144.80] human nature to proclaim, -[3144.80 --> 3147.14] to shout from the mountaintops -[3147.14 --> 3149.56] those things that we believe to be magnificent. -[3151.02 --> 3151.50] Right? -[3151.52 --> 3153.02] When you're amazed by something, -[3153.18 --> 3155.14] you share it with the people around you. -[3156.64 --> 3159.30] And have you ever tried to show someone something -[3159.30 --> 3162.22] that you found or that you thought was amazing? -[3162.62 --> 3163.84] Maybe it's a sports highlight. -[3164.46 --> 3167.40] Maybe it's a car that you see on the road -[3167.40 --> 3169.06] or something that you're super interested -[3169.06 --> 3169.90] and that you love. -[3170.06 --> 3171.50] And you show them and you say, -[3171.58 --> 3172.62] isn't this magnificent? -[3172.62 --> 3174.90] And they look at you and they go, -[3175.40 --> 3176.42] I guess so. -[3177.08 --> 3177.44] Maybe. -[3178.38 --> 3180.00] I mean, you love it, so okay. -[3180.70 --> 3182.32] Has that ever happened to you or is that only me? -[3184.22 --> 3184.80] Only me. -[3184.90 --> 3185.54] Okay, thank you. -[3186.58 --> 3188.28] But even still, right, -[3188.34 --> 3189.10] you love it, -[3189.34 --> 3190.44] so you're undaunted. -[3191.90 --> 3192.24] Right? -[3192.28 --> 3193.30] You think it's magnificent, -[3193.52 --> 3194.66] so you go, okay, fine. -[3194.72 --> 3195.42] If you don't care, -[3195.50 --> 3196.74] then I'm going to find someone who does. -[3196.74 --> 3202.78] Malachi and I like to watch highlights of Lionel Messi -[3202.78 --> 3204.92] running down the field -[3204.92 --> 3207.14] and deacon out 10 other players on the other team -[3207.14 --> 3209.30] and then beautifully putting it top bins. -[3209.52 --> 3210.00] Right, Malachi? -[3211.82 --> 3212.76] Rachel doesn't care. -[3213.48 --> 3214.92] So we find someone who does. -[3216.20 --> 3217.56] We go and share that -[3217.56 --> 3218.92] because we think it's magnificent. -[3220.36 --> 3220.46] Right? -[3221.02 --> 3222.30] Magnifying something -[3222.30 --> 3224.80] motivates you to make it known. -[3224.80 --> 3229.40] Now this magnifying reason, -[3229.50 --> 3231.08] I think actually could also be called -[3231.08 --> 3233.30] a miraculous reason. -[3234.10 --> 3234.22] Right? -[3234.24 --> 3235.38] It's a miraculous reason -[3235.38 --> 3237.10] because something miraculous -[3237.10 --> 3238.42] has happened in front of them. -[3239.08 --> 3240.22] Notice again what Peter says. -[3240.60 --> 3241.94] Jesus Christ of Nazareth, -[3242.08 --> 3243.04] whom you crucified, -[3243.48 --> 3244.24] you killed him. -[3244.66 --> 3245.56] He was dead, -[3246.02 --> 3249.06] but whom God raised from the dead. -[3250.32 --> 3251.90] And then that miracle of resurrection -[3251.90 --> 3253.86] is reason enough for them -[3253.86 --> 3255.10] to boldly proclaim. -[3256.04 --> 3256.14] Right? -[3256.16 --> 3257.74] If God can raise the dead, -[3258.18 --> 3260.04] surely he can raise dead hearts. -[3261.30 --> 3261.46] Right? -[3261.48 --> 3262.66] If God can raise the dead, -[3263.04 --> 3264.34] surely I can stand here -[3264.34 --> 3265.36] in the face of death -[3265.36 --> 3266.34] and not be afraid. -[3268.54 --> 3269.82] God raised the dead. -[3269.94 --> 3272.06] The disciples saw Jesus dead -[3272.06 --> 3273.70] and then three days later, -[3273.78 --> 3274.82] they saw him alive -[3274.82 --> 3276.00] and they lived with him -[3276.00 --> 3276.76] and talked with him -[3276.76 --> 3277.46] and walked with him -[3277.46 --> 3279.34] and ate with this resurrected Jesus -[3279.34 --> 3280.62] for 40 days -[3280.62 --> 3281.86] before he was taken up -[3281.86 --> 3283.12] in front of their very eyes. -[3283.26 --> 3285.12] Of course they're going to talk about that. -[3286.06 --> 3287.00] How could they not? -[3287.96 --> 3288.84] It's magnificent. -[3289.24 --> 3290.10] It's amazing. -[3290.30 --> 3291.14] It's majestic. -[3291.32 --> 3292.12] It's miraculous. -[3293.18 --> 3296.14] And the same must be true for us today. -[3296.22 --> 3297.18] How could it not be? -[3297.46 --> 3297.58] Right? -[3297.62 --> 3298.76] When you experience -[3298.76 --> 3299.74] this miraculous, -[3300.00 --> 3301.00] resurrected Jesus -[3301.00 --> 3302.22] as real, -[3302.48 --> 3304.40] how could you not proclaim that? -[3304.54 --> 3306.18] How could you not magnify him? -[3307.28 --> 3307.52] Right? -[3307.54 --> 3309.86] When you see an unexpected answer to prayer, -[3310.82 --> 3312.92] when you're touched by God in worship, -[3314.24 --> 3315.92] don't you want to tell someone about that? -[3317.20 --> 3318.72] Can't you but share it? -[3320.18 --> 3320.36] Right? -[3320.40 --> 3321.96] When God has changed your life, -[3322.72 --> 3325.14] tell the story of God changing your life -[3325.14 --> 3327.26] because that's what God does. -[3327.92 --> 3329.10] He changes lives. -[3329.10 --> 3331.52] Part of our magnifying him -[3331.52 --> 3333.42] is telling the story -[3333.42 --> 3334.94] of him changing our lives, -[3335.10 --> 3336.50] transforming us. -[3339.00 --> 3340.46] Now this brings us -[3340.46 --> 3342.10] then to the third -[3342.10 --> 3343.72] and final reason -[3343.72 --> 3345.38] to boldly proclaim the gospel. -[3346.30 --> 3347.12] And I'm calling this -[3347.12 --> 3348.80] the mercy reason. -[3349.58 --> 3351.12] Notice what Peter says in verse 12. -[3351.98 --> 3352.36] He says, -[3352.48 --> 3354.42] Salvation is found in no one else -[3354.42 --> 3355.58] for there's no under name -[3355.58 --> 3356.56] under heaven -[3356.56 --> 3357.42] given to mankind -[3357.42 --> 3359.84] by which we must be saved. -[3359.84 --> 3362.58] Now the third reason here -[3362.58 --> 3364.64] is sort of the capstone reason -[3364.64 --> 3366.48] and it might be the most important -[3366.48 --> 3367.58] because working backwards -[3367.58 --> 3368.72] it changes all the others -[3368.72 --> 3371.70] and supports all the others. -[3372.46 --> 3373.38] We cannot help -[3373.38 --> 3375.48] speaking about what we have seen and heard -[3375.48 --> 3377.04] because what we have seen and heard -[3377.04 --> 3378.62] is the only way -[3378.62 --> 3380.66] that God has made salvation possible. -[3381.18 --> 3382.72] There's no other name -[3382.72 --> 3383.54] under heaven -[3383.54 --> 3384.44] given to mankind -[3384.44 --> 3386.48] by which we must be saved. -[3386.48 --> 3388.80] Now, -[3389.54 --> 3391.18] if you have ears to hear that -[3391.18 --> 3393.90] in today's pluralistic world -[3393.90 --> 3395.40] that is an impossibly -[3395.40 --> 3396.78] controversial thing to say. -[3398.38 --> 3399.68] But just so you don't think -[3399.68 --> 3400.58] these are my words -[3400.58 --> 3402.42] hear these words -[3402.42 --> 3403.28] from Jesus. -[3403.52 --> 3404.66] Matthew 11, 27. -[3405.10 --> 3406.44] No one knows the Father -[3406.44 --> 3407.52] except the Son -[3407.52 --> 3408.86] and those to whom -[3408.86 --> 3409.92] the Son chooses -[3409.92 --> 3411.24] to reveal Him. -[3412.44 --> 3413.70] Or John 3, 16. -[3414.18 --> 3414.42] Right? -[3414.42 --> 3415.82] Most of us know that first verse. -[3415.98 --> 3417.06] For God so loved the world -[3417.06 --> 3418.80] that He gave His one and only Son -[3418.80 --> 3420.02] that whoever believes in Him -[3420.02 --> 3420.78] shall not perish -[3420.78 --> 3421.92] but have eternal life. -[3422.08 --> 3422.84] How many of us know -[3422.84 --> 3424.00] the second verse is here? -[3424.38 --> 3426.02] For God did not send His Son -[3426.02 --> 3426.74] into the world -[3426.74 --> 3427.66] to condemn the world -[3427.66 --> 3428.86] but to save the world -[3428.86 --> 3429.58] through Him. -[3430.00 --> 3431.64] Whoever believes in Him -[3431.64 --> 3432.96] is not condemned. -[3434.20 --> 3435.78] But whoever does not believe -[3435.78 --> 3437.38] stands condemned already -[3437.38 --> 3439.20] because they have not believed -[3439.20 --> 3440.76] in the name of God's one -[3440.76 --> 3442.32] and only Son. -[3442.32 --> 3445.80] Jesus explicitly -[3445.80 --> 3447.34] in John 14, verse 6 -[3447.34 --> 3447.58] says, -[3447.82 --> 3448.38] I am the way, -[3448.50 --> 3448.86] the truth, -[3448.90 --> 3449.36] and the life. -[3449.76 --> 3451.16] No one comes to the Father -[3451.16 --> 3452.66] except through Me. -[3453.46 --> 3454.16] Or Paul writes -[3454.16 --> 3454.82] in 1 Timothy, -[3454.94 --> 3456.20] for there is one God -[3456.20 --> 3457.04] and one mediator -[3457.04 --> 3458.44] between God and mankind, -[3458.58 --> 3459.74] the man Jesus Christ. -[3460.30 --> 3461.18] Or in 1 John, -[3461.44 --> 3462.70] the same John possibly -[3462.70 --> 3463.48] who was here, -[3463.76 --> 3464.36] probably, -[3464.56 --> 3465.86] who was here in this moment -[3465.86 --> 3467.78] writes to the elders -[3467.78 --> 3468.58] and to the churches -[3468.58 --> 3469.56] in 1 John 5. -[3469.64 --> 3469.92] He says, -[3469.92 --> 3471.00] whoever has the Son -[3471.00 --> 3471.78] has life, -[3472.12 --> 3473.18] whoever does not have -[3473.18 --> 3474.00] the Son of God -[3474.00 --> 3476.06] does not have life. -[3478.24 --> 3478.64] Now again, -[3478.80 --> 3479.54] some people -[3479.54 --> 3481.04] in our world today, -[3481.18 --> 3482.76] even us sitting here -[3482.76 --> 3483.40] this morning, -[3483.66 --> 3484.36] might say, -[3484.66 --> 3485.32] Pastor, -[3485.44 --> 3487.20] that's a really hard teaching. -[3488.40 --> 3489.38] This message -[3489.38 --> 3490.50] on the exclusivity -[3490.50 --> 3491.42] of Christ -[3491.42 --> 3494.68] is not very fair -[3494.68 --> 3496.80] in the world around us. -[3496.80 --> 3499.08] But can I just say -[3499.08 --> 3502.26] that all truth, -[3502.44 --> 3503.12] any claim -[3503.12 --> 3504.30] to a particular idea -[3504.30 --> 3505.06] is exclusive. -[3506.26 --> 3506.90] At any time -[3506.90 --> 3508.04] we claim one thing, -[3508.24 --> 3509.12] it means we're -[3509.12 --> 3510.82] excluding the other things -[3510.82 --> 3511.62] from it. -[3512.00 --> 3513.28] No matter what you do -[3513.28 --> 3514.32] or what you say, -[3514.40 --> 3514.98] you're always -[3514.98 --> 3516.00] excluding something. -[3516.10 --> 3516.70] It's impossible -[3516.70 --> 3517.64] to not. -[3520.14 --> 3520.94] And so maybe, -[3521.70 --> 3523.26] at least for this moment, -[3523.92 --> 3524.62] we'll trust -[3524.62 --> 3525.76] the words of Jesus -[3525.76 --> 3526.68] when He says -[3526.68 --> 3528.00] that He's the only way -[3528.00 --> 3529.40] or the words -[3529.40 --> 3530.40] of Peter and John -[3530.40 --> 3530.92] when they say -[3530.92 --> 3531.44] that salvation -[3531.44 --> 3532.68] is found in no one else -[3532.68 --> 3535.98] because it's come to us -[3535.98 --> 3537.64] by the Spirit of God -[3537.64 --> 3538.92] to hear that. -[3539.78 --> 3541.06] And it's not arrogant -[3541.06 --> 3542.24] to say that -[3542.24 --> 3543.86] when it turns out -[3543.86 --> 3544.56] that it's right. -[3545.86 --> 3547.56] It's just true. -[3547.56 --> 3551.76] In fact, -[3552.20 --> 3554.66] to not say it -[3554.66 --> 3556.62] isn't to just deny -[3556.62 --> 3557.42] its truth. -[3557.94 --> 3558.90] What we're hearing here -[3558.90 --> 3560.46] is to actually rob people -[3560.46 --> 3562.14] of the joy of salvation, -[3562.50 --> 3563.24] of the possibility -[3563.24 --> 3563.88] of salvation. -[3564.24 --> 3564.70] And so, -[3564.90 --> 3566.72] we must boldly proclaim -[3566.72 --> 3567.78] this idea -[3567.78 --> 3568.84] and this truth. -[3568.84 --> 3574.02] But to do so -[3574.02 --> 3574.96] will cost something. -[3577.20 --> 3578.28] There's a story -[3578.28 --> 3580.86] from the second century -[3580.86 --> 3582.94] about the arrest, -[3583.38 --> 3583.70] trial, -[3583.86 --> 3584.52] and ultimately -[3584.52 --> 3585.48] martyrdom, -[3585.62 --> 3586.10] execution, -[3586.48 --> 3588.30] of a man named Polycarp. -[3588.98 --> 3590.22] He's the bishop -[3590.22 --> 3591.42] of Smyrna. -[3592.70 --> 3592.86] Now, -[3592.98 --> 3593.72] Polycarp -[3593.72 --> 3597.20] is connected to -[3597.20 --> 3598.14] as a disciple, -[3598.88 --> 3599.80] John, -[3600.08 --> 3600.78] mentioned here -[3600.78 --> 3601.88] in the text. -[3602.92 --> 3603.04] Now, -[3603.06 --> 3604.14] Polycarp is betrayed -[3604.14 --> 3605.36] by a servant -[3605.36 --> 3606.94] and is arrested -[3606.94 --> 3608.16] by Roman soldiers. -[3609.38 --> 3610.14] The story goes -[3610.14 --> 3610.80] that he welcomes -[3610.80 --> 3611.62] them calmly -[3611.62 --> 3612.98] and he asks -[3612.98 --> 3614.18] for a time to pray -[3614.18 --> 3615.50] and then he goes -[3615.50 --> 3616.18] with them willingly. -[3617.08 --> 3618.00] And then he's taken -[3618.00 --> 3619.30] to a stadium -[3619.30 --> 3620.24] where there's -[3620.24 --> 3621.02] a large crowd -[3621.02 --> 3621.76] that has gathered -[3621.76 --> 3622.54] and awaited -[3622.54 --> 3623.62] and the proconsul -[3623.62 --> 3624.60] Quintus -[3624.60 --> 3625.68] urges him -[3625.68 --> 3626.82] to renounce -[3626.82 --> 3627.48] his faith -[3627.48 --> 3628.36] and to swear -[3628.36 --> 3629.40] by the fortune -[3629.40 --> 3630.38] of Caesar. -[3630.92 --> 3631.16] Right? -[3631.22 --> 3631.72] In so doing -[3631.72 --> 3632.80] to curse Christ -[3632.80 --> 3633.56] in order to save -[3633.56 --> 3634.04] his life. -[3634.42 --> 3634.56] Now, -[3634.62 --> 3635.04] interestingly, -[3635.54 --> 3636.64] we have documents -[3636.64 --> 3637.48] from this time -[3637.48 --> 3638.70] that name Quintus -[3638.70 --> 3639.94] as the proconsul -[3639.94 --> 3641.28] of the region -[3641.28 --> 3641.86] of Smyrna. -[3642.78 --> 3643.82] So this really happened. -[3646.08 --> 3646.94] And Polycarp -[3646.94 --> 3648.42] standing before Quintus -[3648.42 --> 3649.80] famously responds. -[3649.96 --> 3650.28] He says, -[3651.04 --> 3652.32] Eighty and six years -[3652.32 --> 3653.26] have I served him. -[3653.62 --> 3654.70] For those of you -[3654.70 --> 3655.66] for whom math is hard, -[3655.74 --> 3656.22] that means he's -[3656.22 --> 3657.28] 86 years old. -[3658.34 --> 3658.68] Right? -[3658.72 --> 3659.50] He's not a young man. -[3660.92 --> 3661.14] Right? -[3661.22 --> 3662.06] He is old -[3662.06 --> 3662.72] and bold -[3662.72 --> 3663.84] in his faith. -[3664.56 --> 3665.60] Eighty and six years -[3665.60 --> 3666.56] have I served him -[3666.56 --> 3668.04] and he has done me -[3668.04 --> 3669.10] no wrong. -[3669.66 --> 3670.30] How then -[3670.30 --> 3671.46] can I blaspheme -[3671.46 --> 3672.10] my king -[3672.10 --> 3673.24] and my savior? -[3674.34 --> 3675.36] And his speech continues. -[3675.48 --> 3676.34] He steadfastly -[3676.34 --> 3677.52] refuses to renounce -[3677.52 --> 3677.96] his faith. -[3678.28 --> 3678.48] In fact, -[3678.52 --> 3679.04] at one point, -[3679.10 --> 3679.70] he looks straight -[3679.70 --> 3680.38] at Quintus, -[3680.46 --> 3681.18] the proconsul, -[3681.26 --> 3681.84] the leader, -[3682.22 --> 3682.70] the governing -[3682.70 --> 3683.66] Roman authority -[3683.66 --> 3684.86] and he says, -[3685.30 --> 3686.74] since you are insisting -[3686.74 --> 3687.58] that I should swear -[3687.58 --> 3688.70] by Caesar's fortune -[3688.70 --> 3689.64] and act like -[3689.64 --> 3690.94] you don't know -[3690.94 --> 3691.74] who I am, -[3691.84 --> 3692.62] let me tell you -[3692.62 --> 3694.18] clearly and with boldness, -[3694.40 --> 3695.62] I am a Christian. -[3696.48 --> 3697.40] And I love this. -[3697.72 --> 3697.98] He says, -[3698.08 --> 3698.94] if you want to learn -[3698.94 --> 3700.00] about Christian beliefs, -[3700.52 --> 3701.06] set a time -[3701.06 --> 3701.66] and I'll explain -[3701.66 --> 3702.18] them for you. -[3703.44 --> 3704.22] And so he's standing -[3704.22 --> 3705.04] in front of this guy -[3705.04 --> 3705.94] who's about to kill him -[3705.94 --> 3706.34] and he says, -[3706.50 --> 3707.50] do you want me -[3707.50 --> 3708.54] to tell you about Jesus? -[3709.78 --> 3710.66] Let's set a time. -[3710.78 --> 3711.76] Maybe it can be next week. -[3712.52 --> 3712.98] You know, -[3713.00 --> 3713.62] we don't have to follow -[3713.62 --> 3714.16] through with this, -[3714.28 --> 3715.02] but he says, -[3715.06 --> 3715.72] let me tell you -[3715.72 --> 3716.68] about Jesus. -[3717.90 --> 3719.00] Now the proconsul -[3719.00 --> 3720.62] continues to pressure him, -[3720.74 --> 3721.22] threatening him -[3721.22 --> 3722.00] with wild beasts -[3722.00 --> 3722.66] and with fire -[3722.66 --> 3724.30] and Polycop remains -[3724.30 --> 3725.44] unshaken, -[3725.60 --> 3725.92] saying, -[3726.26 --> 3726.58] actually, -[3726.72 --> 3727.26] that the fire -[3727.26 --> 3728.16] that you threaten me -[3728.16 --> 3729.18] with will be temporary. -[3729.78 --> 3730.68] The fire of judgment -[3730.68 --> 3731.84] reserved for all those -[3731.84 --> 3733.24] ungodly is eternal, -[3733.46 --> 3734.28] so I don't care -[3734.28 --> 3734.96] about your fire. -[3735.94 --> 3736.86] And so the crowd -[3736.86 --> 3737.80] starts to demand -[3737.80 --> 3739.16] Polycarp be burned alive -[3739.16 --> 3740.06] and so he's taken -[3740.06 --> 3741.30] to a stake -[3741.30 --> 3742.30] where they offer -[3742.30 --> 3743.72] to nail him to it -[3743.72 --> 3744.30] because, -[3744.78 --> 3745.48] as you can imagine, -[3745.58 --> 3746.14] when people start -[3746.14 --> 3746.82] feeling the flames, -[3746.90 --> 3747.64] they try to run away. -[3748.52 --> 3749.62] And Polycarp says, -[3750.90 --> 3751.78] God will give me -[3751.78 --> 3752.98] the strength to endure. -[3753.36 --> 3754.00] You don't need -[3754.00 --> 3754.80] to nail me -[3754.80 --> 3755.78] to this pyre. -[3756.00 --> 3756.78] I will stay. -[3758.24 --> 3759.64] And as the fire is lit, -[3760.02 --> 3761.34] Polycarp prays, -[3761.42 --> 3761.94] thanks God -[3761.94 --> 3762.66] for the opportunity -[3762.66 --> 3763.90] to join the martyrs -[3763.90 --> 3764.86] and to partake -[3764.86 --> 3765.96] in Christ's suffering. -[3766.42 --> 3767.20] And as the story -[3767.20 --> 3767.90] is told, -[3768.32 --> 3769.14] miraculously, -[3769.38 --> 3770.00] the flames -[3770.00 --> 3771.14] did not touch him. -[3771.42 --> 3772.14] As you read it, -[3772.34 --> 3773.70] it says that they appeared -[3773.70 --> 3775.02] in like a dome -[3775.02 --> 3775.80] around him -[3775.80 --> 3776.46] and they could not -[3776.46 --> 3776.92] come in. -[3777.22 --> 3778.04] And so eventually, -[3778.72 --> 3779.98] one of the Roman guards -[3779.98 --> 3780.76] had to go -[3780.76 --> 3781.10] and kill him -[3781.10 --> 3781.60] with a sword. -[3782.76 --> 3783.62] I imagine that guard -[3783.62 --> 3784.16] got burned -[3784.16 --> 3785.70] in doing that. -[3787.46 --> 3788.66] This is the legacy -[3788.66 --> 3789.86] of our faith -[3789.86 --> 3790.54] and those who -[3790.54 --> 3791.54] boldly proclaim -[3791.54 --> 3793.60] regardless of the cost. -[3793.60 --> 3795.38] And let me be really clear, -[3795.46 --> 3797.00] this continues to today. -[3797.22 --> 3797.74] How many of you -[3797.74 --> 3800.14] remember or heard -[3800.14 --> 3800.74] the story -[3800.74 --> 3803.22] of Pastor Andrew Bunsen? -[3803.34 --> 3804.60] He's an American pastor. -[3805.06 --> 3805.76] In 2016, -[3805.76 --> 3806.74] he was arrested -[3806.74 --> 3807.36] in Turkey. -[3808.38 --> 3809.10] He was accused -[3809.10 --> 3810.14] of espionage -[3810.14 --> 3810.90] and terrorism -[3810.90 --> 3812.78] charges that he -[3812.78 --> 3813.58] and his supporters -[3813.58 --> 3814.42] have continued -[3814.42 --> 3815.56] to deny. -[3816.50 --> 3818.14] But during his imprisonment, -[3818.24 --> 3819.08] he's written a book -[3819.08 --> 3819.42] on it, -[3819.60 --> 3821.14] he remains steadfast -[3821.14 --> 3821.82] and faithful -[3821.82 --> 3822.62] and he continues -[3822.62 --> 3823.64] to proclaim -[3823.64 --> 3824.88] his Christian beliefs. -[3825.50 --> 3826.12] And his case -[3826.12 --> 3826.88] eventually drew -[3826.88 --> 3827.96] international attention -[3827.96 --> 3829.36] and he was eventually -[3829.36 --> 3830.60] released in 2018 -[3830.60 --> 3832.18] after significant -[3832.18 --> 3833.48] diplomatic efforts. -[3834.76 --> 3836.06] But he has gone on -[3836.06 --> 3836.48] to say -[3836.48 --> 3837.44] that he would do it -[3837.44 --> 3837.88] all again -[3837.88 --> 3839.46] for the gospel. -[3840.74 --> 3841.34] Or, -[3841.52 --> 3842.42] how many of you -[3842.42 --> 3843.48] remember the story -[3843.48 --> 3845.52] of one John Chow, -[3845.98 --> 3846.82] who was a missionary -[3846.82 --> 3849.24] who was attempting -[3849.24 --> 3850.94] to evangelize -[3850.94 --> 3854.08] the Sentinelese people -[3854.08 --> 3856.18] on North Sentinel Island, -[3856.70 --> 3859.00] which is in the Andaman -[3859.00 --> 3861.32] and Nicobar Islands. -[3861.84 --> 3862.84] Now, the Sentinelese -[3862.84 --> 3863.62] are known -[3863.62 --> 3864.66] for their isolation -[3864.66 --> 3865.92] from the outside world. -[3866.26 --> 3866.68] They're known -[3866.68 --> 3867.80] for their hostility -[3867.80 --> 3869.02] toward anyone -[3869.02 --> 3869.82] who sets foot -[3869.82 --> 3870.48] on their sand. -[3871.82 --> 3872.82] And Chow is eventually -[3872.82 --> 3873.30] killed -[3873.30 --> 3874.72] by the Sentinelese people -[3874.72 --> 3876.12] in November of 2018 -[3876.12 --> 3877.56] for his attempt -[3877.56 --> 3878.68] to preach to them. -[3879.84 --> 3880.92] And at the time, -[3881.02 --> 3881.64] if you remember, -[3881.72 --> 3883.10] this was widely covered -[3883.10 --> 3883.90] by the media -[3883.90 --> 3885.96] and there were two stories -[3885.96 --> 3886.64] being told. -[3887.96 --> 3888.10] Right? -[3888.16 --> 3889.02] On the one hand, -[3889.30 --> 3890.18] you heard the story -[3890.18 --> 3893.22] of a colonizer -[3893.22 --> 3894.80] who tried to bring -[3894.80 --> 3895.64] a Christian gospel -[3895.64 --> 3896.92] to a non-Christian nation -[3896.92 --> 3898.28] and how dare he -[3898.28 --> 3899.82] have the audacity -[3899.82 --> 3900.90] to do that. -[3902.56 --> 3903.58] And on the other hand, -[3903.86 --> 3905.02] you heard the story -[3905.02 --> 3907.54] of someone -[3907.54 --> 3909.08] who was faithful -[3909.08 --> 3909.96] to God's call -[3909.96 --> 3910.70] on their life -[3910.70 --> 3911.76] to go and preach -[3911.76 --> 3912.30] the gospel, -[3913.18 --> 3914.54] to go and declare -[3914.54 --> 3915.28] that salvation -[3915.28 --> 3915.80] is found -[3915.80 --> 3916.56] in no other name -[3916.56 --> 3917.40] than Jesus Christ. -[3917.58 --> 3919.08] And where you stood -[3919.08 --> 3920.90] on that issue -[3920.90 --> 3923.62] in large part -[3923.62 --> 3925.30] has to do with -[3925.30 --> 3926.54] whether or not -[3926.54 --> 3927.18] you think -[3927.18 --> 3928.26] the mercy reason, -[3928.40 --> 3929.42] the magnify reason, -[3929.42 --> 3930.44] and the moral reason -[3930.44 --> 3931.68] are legitimate, -[3932.32 --> 3932.96] are true. -[3932.96 --> 3935.56] Right? -[3935.60 --> 3936.86] If you really believe -[3936.86 --> 3938.12] that there is -[3938.12 --> 3939.04] no other name -[3939.04 --> 3939.94] in heaven -[3939.94 --> 3941.38] and on the earth -[3941.38 --> 3942.22] by which men -[3942.22 --> 3943.38] must be saved, -[3944.52 --> 3945.20] then you will go -[3945.20 --> 3945.94] and declare it -[3945.94 --> 3946.88] and proclaim it. -[3947.32 --> 3948.58] If you really believe -[3948.58 --> 3949.72] that an extension -[3949.72 --> 3951.58] of our worshiping life -[3951.58 --> 3952.22] in Jesus -[3952.22 --> 3954.28] is to tell this thing, -[3954.56 --> 3955.52] this amazing, -[3955.74 --> 3957.00] amazing story, -[3958.00 --> 3959.38] then you're going to go -[3959.38 --> 3960.54] and do it. -[3960.54 --> 3962.92] And if you really believe -[3962.92 --> 3964.54] that God has commanded us -[3964.54 --> 3965.14] to go -[3965.14 --> 3966.80] to listen to His Son -[3966.80 --> 3967.82] and to make disciples -[3967.82 --> 3968.94] and teach them to obey, -[3969.06 --> 3970.08] to be witnesses -[3970.08 --> 3971.62] in Judea and Samaria -[3971.62 --> 3972.54] and to the ends -[3972.54 --> 3972.98] of the earth, -[3973.10 --> 3975.08] even the Sanateles Islands, -[3976.28 --> 3977.04] then you're going to go -[3977.04 --> 3978.50] and you're going to do it. -[3979.00 --> 3980.04] Now let me be really clear. -[3980.38 --> 3980.82] There were some -[3980.82 --> 3982.00] significant questions -[3982.00 --> 3982.76] about the wisdom -[3982.76 --> 3983.80] of how He did it -[3983.80 --> 3984.80] and the support systems -[3984.80 --> 3986.02] that He didn't have in place. -[3986.50 --> 3988.04] And those are legitimate questions -[3988.04 --> 3988.72] worth asking -[3988.72 --> 3989.68] and reflecting upon. -[3989.94 --> 3991.00] But the issue -[3991.00 --> 3992.38] at hand -[3992.38 --> 3995.82] is will you hear -[3995.82 --> 3998.22] the moral -[3998.22 --> 3999.86] and the magnificent -[3999.86 --> 4002.52] and the merciful reasons -[4002.52 --> 4003.30] of God -[4003.30 --> 4004.00] to go -[4004.00 --> 4005.60] and to boldly -[4005.60 --> 4006.40] proclaim -[4006.40 --> 4008.56] this gospel. -[4010.28 --> 4011.06] Now let me, again, -[4011.16 --> 4012.22] be abundantly clear. -[4012.42 --> 4013.86] Not every one of us -[4013.86 --> 4014.96] is going to have to stand -[4014.96 --> 4015.82] before leaders -[4015.82 --> 4016.54] and officials -[4016.54 --> 4018.42] and make this kind of case. -[4019.88 --> 4021.08] But every one of us -[4021.08 --> 4022.10] will have to stand -[4022.10 --> 4023.54] before a friend -[4023.54 --> 4025.04] who disagrees -[4025.04 --> 4026.50] or a teammate -[4026.50 --> 4027.90] who's making fun, -[4028.92 --> 4029.08] right, -[4029.12 --> 4030.20] or a colleague -[4030.20 --> 4030.90] at work -[4030.90 --> 4031.82] who just doesn't get it. -[4032.74 --> 4034.16] And in that moment -[4034.16 --> 4036.34] will the magnificence -[4036.34 --> 4037.34] of Jesus, -[4037.90 --> 4038.76] in that moment -[4038.76 --> 4039.92] will the mercy -[4039.92 --> 4041.58] of God's grace, -[4042.00 --> 4042.82] in that moment -[4042.82 --> 4043.98] will the command -[4043.98 --> 4044.78] of God Himself -[4044.78 --> 4046.28] to listen to His Son -[4046.28 --> 4047.48] be enough -[4047.48 --> 4048.06] for us -[4048.06 --> 4049.64] to boldly proclaim -[4049.64 --> 4052.06] His gospel. -[4053.90 --> 4055.36] I pray that it is. -[4056.76 --> 4057.42] And I pray -[4057.42 --> 4058.04] that we see -[4058.04 --> 4058.70] the fruit -[4058.70 --> 4060.18] of that boldness -[4060.18 --> 4061.08] every day -[4061.08 --> 4064.12] because of the grace -[4064.12 --> 4065.18] of God -[4065.18 --> 4065.98] and the work -[4065.98 --> 4067.50] of His Holy Spirit -[4067.50 --> 4068.12] among us. -[4068.58 --> 4068.82] Amen? -[4069.66 --> 4070.74] Let's pray together. -[4070.74 --> 4075.04] Lord, -[4075.20 --> 4076.48] our God, -[4076.58 --> 4077.52] You are so good. -[4077.64 --> 4079.34] You are so magnificent. -[4080.28 --> 4081.92] You are majestic. -[4083.88 --> 4085.36] Move in us -[4085.36 --> 4087.56] to boldly declare -[4087.56 --> 4089.14] this truth. -[4089.80 --> 4090.58] Remind us -[4090.58 --> 4091.66] of Your gospel -[4091.66 --> 4093.44] and transform us -[4093.44 --> 4094.16] as we go -[4094.16 --> 4095.00] from this place -[4095.00 --> 4095.76] today. -[4095.76 --> 4098.88] fill us -[4098.88 --> 4100.34] so with courage -[4100.34 --> 4101.48] and boldness -[4101.48 --> 4102.28] that we cannot -[4102.28 --> 4103.72] but speak -[4103.72 --> 4105.04] of what we have -[4105.04 --> 4105.50] seen -[4105.50 --> 4106.66] and heard. -[4107.46 --> 4108.12] We pray this, -[4108.26 --> 4108.40] Jesus, -[4108.58 --> 4109.16] in Your name. -[4109.84 --> 4110.18] Amen. -[4110.18 --> 4110.28] Amen. -[4110.28 --> 4110.32] Amen. -[4110.32 --> 4110.34] Amen. -[4110.34 --> 4110.36] Amen. -[4110.36 --> 4110.40] Amen. -[4125.76 --> 4126.78] Please stand with us -[4126.78 --> 4127.38] as we sing -[4127.38 --> 4128.92] How Great is Our God. -[4128.92 --> 4130.92] Amen. -[4158.92 --> 4160.92] Amen. -[4188.92 --> 4190.92] Amen. -[4218.92 --> 4220.92] Amen. -[4248.92 --> 4250.92] Amen. -[4278.92 --> 4280.92] Amen. -[4308.92 --> 4310.92] Amen. -[4338.92 --> 4340.92] Amen. -[4340.92 --> 4346.92] How great is our God. -[4355.92 --> 4366.02] Before we go this morning, I just want to remind you that tonight we are having Praise by the Pond, -[4366.02 --> 4369.44] which is just a small, informal, or maybe not small. -[4369.60 --> 4375.68] All of you all come, and it won't be small, but it will be an informal worship evening at the Den Hans. -[4375.92 --> 4378.02] And so we're going to gather in their backyard. -[4378.82 --> 4379.70] They have beautiful property. -[4380.44 --> 4381.02] There'll be snacks. -[4381.96 --> 4383.94] You're encouraged to bring a snack to share. -[4384.04 --> 4386.08] There'll be other refreshments provided. -[4386.60 --> 4391.84] And bring a lawn chair, or you have to stand the entire time, which might be fine for you too. -[4392.30 --> 4395.06] And we'll begin that at 7 p.m. -[4395.06 --> 4399.66] And so if you would like to know more details about that, John and Pearl are in the middle. -[4399.76 --> 4400.88] Can you guys just raise your hands? -[4401.34 --> 4401.94] Nice and high. -[4402.02 --> 4402.44] Very good. -[4402.54 --> 4403.68] They can answer your questions. -[4404.04 --> 4405.68] Or I can answer some of your questions. -[4405.78 --> 4407.48] Or Jackie can answer some of your questions. -[4407.94 --> 4412.44] We'd love to see you there, 7 o'clock tonight, at the Den Hans for Praise by the Pond. -[4412.44 --> 4423.40] Also, we'd love for you to stick around now and to have time of fellowship and coffee and refreshments together following our time. -[4423.72 --> 4428.68] Those doors will open up, and there should be goodies there, assuming everything worked according to plan. -[4428.68 --> 4433.68] As you go then, go with God's blessing. -[4433.68 --> 4439.54] God goes before you to lead you. -[4439.94 --> 4441.92] God goes behind you to protect you. -[4442.28 --> 4444.36] God goes beneath you to support you. -[4444.72 --> 4447.10] God goes beside you to befriend you. -[4447.44 --> 4449.04] Do not be afraid. -[4449.56 --> 4451.48] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[4451.58 --> 4453.02] Do not be afraid. -[4453.02 --> 4461.38] But go in peace to love and proclaim the good news of our Lord Jesus. -[4462.32 --> 4462.70] Amen. -[4463.68 --> 4467.46] Amen. -[4467.46 --> 4468.88] Amen. -[4468.90 --> 4469.90] Amen. -[4491.88 --> 4492.30] Amen. -[4492.32 --> 4493.10] Amen. -[4493.18 --> 4493.44] Amen. -[4493.52 --> 4493.64] Amen. -[4493.64 --> 4500.64] and the grace of Christ's risen Son -[4500.64 --> 4507.58] and the fellowship of God the Spirit -[4507.58 --> 4513.86] keep our eyes and rise within His love -[4513.86 --> 4520.74] and to Him He prays for His glorious reign -[4520.74 --> 4527.04] from the depths of earth to the heights of heaven -[4527.04 --> 4533.32] He declare the name of the loved ones slain -[4533.32 --> 4539.80] Christ eternal, the King of peace -[4539.80 --> 4548.40] He may His peace surpass His understanding -[4548.40 --> 4554.70] and His grace which pays us what we are -[4554.70 --> 4560.78] and His fellowship of His communion -[4560.78 --> 4566.86] make us one in spirit in God -[4566.86 --> 4572.86] and to give Him He prays for His glorious reign -[4573.56 --> 4579.74] from the depths of earth to the heights of heaven -[4579.74 --> 4585.92] He declare the name of the loved ones slain -[4585.92 --> 4590.86] Christ eternal, the King of peace -[4590.86 --> 4592.86] Christ eternal, the King of peace -[4592.86 --> 4596.86] Christ eternal, the King of peace -[4596.86 --> 4597.86] Christ eternal, the King of peace -[4597.86 --> 4603.86] Christ eternal, the King of peace -[4603.86 --> 4614.86] We declare the name of the left one sing. Christ eternal, the King of peace. -[4614.86 --> 4622.86] Christ eternal, the King of peace. -[4633.86 --> 4648.86] Christ eternal, the King of peace. -[4648.86 --> 4663.86] Christ eternal, the King of peace. -[4663.86 --> 4669.86] Christ eternal, the King of peace. -[4669.86 --> 4684.86] Christ eternal, the King of peace. -[4684.86 --> 4690.86] Christ eternal, the King of peace. -[4690.86 --> 4707.86] Christ eternal, the King of peace. -[4720.86 --> 4735.86] Christ eternal, the King of peace. -[4739.86 --> 4741.86] . -[4741.86 --> 4771.84] Thank you. -[4771.86 --> 4801.84] Thank you. -[4801.86 --> 4831.84] Thank you. -[4831.86 --> 4861.84] Thank you. -[4861.86 --> 4891.84] Thank you. -[4891.86 --> 4921.84] Thank you. -[4921.86 --> 4951.84] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, July 7, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, July 7, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 094fde13ad07958db450a1ecaa1e6dce8c54ca4f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, July 7, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,97 +0,0 @@ -• The worship song "Who You Say I Am" is sung by a choir -• Pastor Jonathan Wang from Hope Community Church leads the service due to the absence of regular pastors -• A food drive is announced, with volunteers needed to help canvas neighborhoods and distribute bags for groceries or donations -• Extra bags are available for people to take home for their friends and family -• Praise to God with various instruments and expressions -• Reading from Psalm 98, calling to worship and praising the Lord -• Singing of "Shout to the North" and other songs about Jesus as Savior -• Worship service continues with more singing and praise to God -• Prayer of silent confession and turning hearts towards Jesus -• Exposing sin and wrongdoing, looking to Jesus for light and forgiveness -• The concept of Jesus' sacrifice and redemption -• Worship songs and hymns referencing Jesus and salvation -• Encouragement to come to the altar for forgiveness and healing -• The precious blood of Jesus Christ as a symbol of forgiveness -• The Father's arms being open wide for those seeking forgiveness -• Invitation to bear one's cross and wait for the crown -• Call to respond with a reading and join in worship -• Discussion on living out the fruit of the Spirit in tangible ways -• The Ten Commandments from Exodus 20 are recited -• Loving God and loving one's neighbor is the heart of these commandments -• Discussion of key themes in the Bible, including worshiping only God and honoring parents -• Reference to Amazing Grace hymn and its lyrics -• Introduction of a deacon named Mike who explains the church's partnership with Teen Challenge ministry -• Discussion of the love of God and its endurance through time -• The saints and angels sing about the love of God -• The magnitude and purity of God's love is described as measureless and strong -• Prayers are offered for specific individuals including Everly, Emma Smith, Rosvita, and those dealing with mental health issues -• The congregation prays for healing and strength in the face of illness and difficult situations -• Prayers are also offered for families affected by natural disasters such as floods and hurricanes -• Praying for a blessing on those traveling and away from the congregation -• Thankfulness for the food bank drive and praying for volunteers and donations -• Prayer for guest pastor Jonathan Wang to bring God's word with clarity and truth -• Requesting guidance and leading of the Holy Spirit as members go about their daily tasks -• Recognition of the church community and thanking God for blessings -• Introduction of a new sermon series: "Learning to Live with Grace" -• Jesus teaches about addressing sin within the community -• The process of confronting sin involves private confrontation, gathering witnesses, and if necessary, involving the church or treating the person as an outsider -• Forgiveness is a harder and more complex process than simply holding a grudge or forgetting past issues -• A community where members care for each other can lead to confrontation and correction of one another's sins -• Jesus teaches that restoration should be done gently and with concern for the potential temptations of those doing the correcting. -• The speaker shares a personal story of being confronted by an older youth in their church about their misbehaviors during puberty. -• The confrontation was not judgmental or condescending but rather caring and gentle, with the goal of encouraging growth and change. -• The speaker emphasizes that confronting sin and seeking reconciliation is hard work and not a one-time event. -• Jesus and Paul teach that being a Christian means carrying each other's burdens by confronting sin with gentleness and love. -• A community that seeks reconciliation and restoration reflects God's goodness and serves as a witness to the world. -• The Bible acknowledges that people are broken and sinful, but through forgiveness and the power of salvation, they can seek reconciliation. -• Jesus and Paul discuss deliberate patterns of sin that hinder church growth -• The Holy Spirit convicts individuals of sin to promote Christ-like holiness -• Jesus commands believers to address faults in fellow Christians, similar to the Holy Spirit's ministry within them -• Seeking reconciliation is a core part of Christian identity and identity as people of God -• Old Testament passages (Proverbs 27 and Leviticus) reflect the importance of seeking reconciliation with others -• Discussion on caring enough to confront and convict others -• Importance of receiving reproval as care and encouragement for growth -• Christian legalism and the challenge of pointing out faults with care and gentleness -• Authority to point out sin and the heart of Jesus' teaching -• Deliberate patterns of living contrary to God's Word vs. simple mistakes or struggles -• The role of the Holy Spirit in nudging believers towards growth and service -• A deliberate pattern of life against God's way is discussed as the topic -• Self-righteousness and pride are mentioned as common patterns to confront -• The importance of reconciliation and confronting sin directly -• Jesus' language of "winning someone over" is compared to the parable of the prodigal son -• A step-by-step process for confronting sin, involving private confrontation, gathering witnesses, and church community involvement -• The need for loving patience and exhaust all means to win back a lost individual -• Baptism and dedication ceremonies -• The importance of community in spiritual growth -• Responsibility among church members -• Accountability and encouragement within the church fellowship -• Jesus' teaching on reconciliation and its limitations -• The reality of a broken world where reconciliation may not always be possible -• The importance of the Spirit's guidance and not relying on human wisdom -• The authority of the church as a body of believers, given by Jesus himself -• Abuse of authority in some church communities and its negative impact -• The need for gentleness when rebuking sins within the church, as taught by Paul -• Righteous anger against injustice and sin, which is not sinful in itself -• The importance of addressing sin and injustice in the world with passion, but also being mindful not to let anger lead to sin. -• The need for careful confrontation when pointing out someone's sin, and being aware that we might be tempted to sin as well. -• A quote from an early church father about avoiding two extremes: consenting to evil or being negligent and not reprove it. -• The ongoing struggle in the Christian life to seek forgiveness, living out a Christian identity of shalom, and seeking reconciliation. -• The difficulty of accountability and reproving someone's unhealthy patterns in today's hyper-individualistic culture. -• Paul's message to the whole church as a body of believers, not just one individual leader, about carrying each other's burdens and journeying together towards growth. -• Jesus' radical teaching of grace emphasizes treating sinners as individuals and embodying a lifestyle of forgiveness -• The church disciplines Christians effectively by demonstrating a humble, gentle posture in seeking reconciliation -• Seeking shalom through humility and gentleness is key to reflecting God's kingdom on earth -• Accountability and reconciliation are important steps in living out one's faith -• Jesus empowers believers through His Spirit to take difficult steps to live out their faith -• The body of Christ is called to seek shalom, reflect God's kingdom, and forgive as those who have been forgiven -• Prayer for relationships within the church and among individuals -• Asking God to guide them through His spirit and reveal what His kingdom is like on earth -• Empowerment to be witnesses and reflect God's loving goodness in the world -• Thanking God for the good news of Jesus Christ -• Expressions of gratitude and praise to God, including His faithfulness, mercy, and grace -• Parting blessing with the hope that God's love, fellowship, and presence will accompany those who continue to live out their identity as people of God. -• The speaker asks God to bless the individual -• The speaker prays for the person's need and safety -• Christ and the cross are invoked as sources of hope -• The speaker asks God to grant love, grace, and power to the individual through their relationship with the Father -• Praise is given to God for granting life and glory \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, July 7, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, July 7, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 4562ad56c4e2e4b7209ba3ecfb8b26f1279eb52a..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, July 7, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1702 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 5.10] Cause I hear a voice and he calls me redeemed -[5.10 --> 8.20] Will never say I'll never be alone -[8.20 --> 13.44] And greater is the one living inside of me -[13.44 --> 16.62] Than he who is living in the world -[16.62 --> 19.50] In the world -[19.50 --> 23.00] In the world -[23.00 --> 29.28] In the world -[29.28 --> 31.04] In the world -[31.04 --> 33.00] In the world -[33.00 --> 34.50] In the world -[34.50 --> 35.04] In the world -[35.04 --> 37.00] In the world -[37.00 --> 37.08] In the world -[37.08 --> 38.04] In the world -[38.04 --> 39.02] In the world -[39.02 --> 41.00] In the world -[41.00 --> 43.00] And greater is the one living inside of me -[43.00 --> 46.00] Than he who is living in the world -[46.00 --> 47.54] Come on, hey, hey -[47.54 --> 48.00] There are things I lose -[48.00 --> 50.00] The battle of grace says that it doesn't matter -[50.00 --> 52.00] Cause I've already won the world -[52.00 --> 64.00] is -[72.88 --> 78.40] oh i've heard a thousand stories of what -[78.40 --> 90.40] they think you're like but i've heard the tender whisper of love -[90.40 --> 100.40] the dead of night and you tell me that you're pleased and that i'm never alone -[100.40 --> 110.40] you're a good good father it's who you are it's who you are -[110.40 --> 122.40] it's who you are and i'm loved by you it's who i am it's who i am it's who i am -[122.40 --> 144.40] oh and i've seen many searching for answers far and wide but i know we're all searching for answers -[144.40 --> 156.40] only you provide cause you know just what we need before we say your word you're a good -[156.40 --> 168.40] good -[168.40 --> 170.40] it's who i am -[170.40 --> 172.40] it's who i am -[172.40 --> 174.40] it's who i am -[174.40 --> 188.40] because you are perfect in all of your ways -[188.40 --> 202.40] oh -[202.40 --> 206.40] you're perfect in all of your ways -[206.40 --> 210.40] you are perfect in all of your ways -[210.40 --> 212.40] to us -[212.40 --> 216.40] oh -[216.40 --> 220.40] oh it's love so undeniable -[220.40 --> 222.40] i -[222.40 --> 226.40] i can hardly speak -[226.40 --> 228.40] peace so -[228.40 --> 230.40] unexplainable -[230.40 --> 232.40] i -[232.40 --> 236.40] i can hardly think as you call me -[236.40 --> 248.40] deeper still as you call me -[248.40 --> 250.40] deeper still as you call me -[250.40 --> 252.40] deeper still into love -[252.40 --> 254.40] love love -[254.40 --> 256.40] you're a good good father -[256.40 --> 258.40] it's who you are -[258.40 --> 260.40] it's who you are -[260.40 --> 262.40] it's who you are -[262.40 --> 264.40] it's who you are -[264.40 --> 294.38] It's who I am. -[294.40 --> 299.98] Good morning, everyone. Obviously, the sound system is working well. -[301.30 --> 304.12] I'm here to welcome you to Emmanuel Church this morning. -[305.26 --> 308.86] Both of our regular pastors are away or not available today, -[309.00 --> 315.18] so we will be having Pastor Jonathan Wang from Hope Community Church with us this morning. -[315.32 --> 319.56] He'll be leading us in God's Word. He'll be giving us a greeting in a few minutes. -[319.56 --> 325.74] I'd like to give the mic over to Mike to tell us about the food drive. -[326.94 --> 332.56] Yeah, I just did an announcement about the upcoming Murrayville food drive that our church is hosting. -[333.10 --> 339.60] It's coming up this coming Saturday where we'll have the food drive and the big community festival here like we've done for many years. -[339.60 --> 344.16] But today is our sort of day we're hoping to canvas the neighborhood. -[344.48 --> 347.62] So there's been a few emails and different communications about this, -[347.72 --> 352.58] but today is the day we're hoping to start visiting people with handfuls of bags, -[352.68 --> 358.96] with little flyers and some information for people so that they have the week ahead of them to fill that bag with groceries or diapers or whatever -[358.96 --> 361.46] and bring it and join us for the festival on Saturday. -[361.46 --> 368.76] So after the service, Brenda and I will be at some tables and we've kind of organized things into piles -[368.76 --> 372.72] and we've got kind of lower Murrayville all separated into seven different areas -[372.72 --> 378.82] and we're hoping we can have some teams of people go out and, yeah, knock on doors or deliver the bags and whatever else. -[379.04 --> 380.34] They're kind of organized by district. -[380.70 --> 383.88] We won't be too niggly about that. -[383.96 --> 386.58] We'll just make it work with whoever is available to help us out -[386.58 --> 391.10] and, yeah, hopefully we can just spread a little bit of love in this community and bless the food bank. -[391.46 --> 391.70] So. -[394.72 --> 395.24] Oh, yeah. -[395.60 --> 396.10] Thanks, Brenda. -[396.40 --> 399.36] We also have a healthy stack of extra bags. -[399.70 --> 403.24] So if you feel like you want to hit your local neighborhood -[403.24 --> 405.84] or you want to take some home for you and your friends and family, -[406.04 --> 407.84] we've got several hundred extra bags. -[408.06 --> 409.14] So don't be shy. -[411.54 --> 414.26] I'd like to welcome Jonathan up for the Lord's greeting. -[421.46 --> 424.80] Good morning. -[426.72 --> 429.62] It is a privilege to join you in worship this morning. -[430.36 --> 434.66] And this is the Lord's greeting from Psalm 150. -[434.66 --> 437.34] Praise the Lord. -[437.92 --> 439.44] Praise God in his sanctuary. -[440.12 --> 441.70] Praise him in his mighty heavens. -[442.52 --> 444.38] Praise him for his acts of power. -[444.92 --> 446.80] Praise him for his surpassing greatness. -[447.78 --> 449.34] Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet. -[450.20 --> 451.74] Praise him with the harp and lyre. -[452.62 --> 454.28] Praise him with the timbrel and dancing. -[455.14 --> 456.68] Praise him with the strings and pipe. -[457.42 --> 459.34] Praise him with the clash of cymbals even. -[460.06 --> 462.08] Praise him with resounding cymbals. -[462.08 --> 464.88] Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. -[465.54 --> 466.30] Praise the Lord. -[467.16 --> 469.80] At this time, I invite you to greet those around you -[469.80 --> 471.10] and share the peace of Christ. -[492.08 --> 506.88] Good morning, brothers and sisters in Christ. -[507.60 --> 511.92] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 98, 4 to 9. -[513.84 --> 515.80] Shout to the Lord, all the earth. -[516.60 --> 519.14] Break out in praise and sing for joy. -[519.14 --> 522.06] Sing your praise to the Lord with the harp, -[522.52 --> 524.48] with the harp and melodious song, -[525.10 --> 527.90] with trumpets and the sound of the ram's horn. -[528.76 --> 531.32] Make a joyful symphony before the Lord, the King. -[532.10 --> 534.94] Let the sea and everything in it shout his praise. -[535.68 --> 538.00] Let the earth and all living things join in. -[538.58 --> 540.46] Let the rivers clap their hands in glee. -[540.94 --> 544.16] Let the hills sing out their songs of joy before the Lord, -[544.42 --> 546.34] for he is coming to judge the earth. -[546.34 --> 550.34] He will judge the world with justice and the nations with fairness. -[550.88 --> 553.36] Please join us in our opening song, Shout to the North. -[553.36 --> 557.70] Let the Earth andוסi. -[557.70 --> 559.70] Amen. -[587.70 --> 589.70] Amen. -[592.70 --> 610.70] Shout to the north and the south, sing to the east and the west, Jesus is Savior to all, Lord of heaven and earth. -[610.70 --> 629.70] Rise up, women of the truth, stand and sing to broken hearts, who can know the healing power of our awesome King of love. -[629.70 --> 647.70] Shout to the north and the south, sing to the east and the west, Jesus is Savior to all, Lord of heaven and earth. -[647.70 --> 649.70] Amen. -[649.70 --> 659.70] We've been through fire, we've been through rain, we've been refined by the power of His name. -[659.70 --> 667.70] We've fallen deeper in love with You, You've burned the truth on our names. -[669.70 --> 685.70] Shout to the north and the south, sing to the east and the west, Jesus is Savior to all, Lord of heaven and earth. -[685.70 --> 687.70] Amen. -[687.70 --> 705.70] Rise up, church, with broken wings, fill this place with songs again, of our God who reigns on high, by His grace again we'll fly. -[705.70 --> 722.70] Shout to the north and the south, sing to the east and the west, Jesus is Savior to all, Lord of heaven and earth. -[722.70 --> 743.70] Lord of heaven and earth. -[743.70 --> 773.68] Father to you, with songs of love we come, into your presence we come. -[773.68 --> 792.68] Jesus, in all of all you've done, brought here with joy, before your throne of grace, and in the sun you love, given our place. -[792.68 --> 802.68] Father, what grace to be found in Him, Heaven's glorious King. -[804.68 --> 817.66] Father, what grace, raising us to life, choosing us in Christ. -[817.66 --> 819.66] Father, what grace. -[819.66 --> 824.66] Father, what grace. -[824.66 --> 829.66] Father, what grace, raising us in Christ. -[829.66 --> 842.66] Deep is the joy that fills your course above, while angels wonder at your redeeming love. -[842.66 --> 856.66] And as you gaze with joy upon your Son, your eyes are on the ones, His love has won. -[856.66 --> 858.66] Father, what grace, raising us in Christ. -[858.66 --> 859.66] Father, what grace. -[859.66 --> 868.66] What grace, raising us to life, choosing us in Christ. -[868.66 --> 873.66] Father, what grace. -[873.66 --> 874.66] Father, what grace. -[874.66 --> 875.66] Father, what grace. -[875.66 --> 880.66] Father, what grace. -[880.66 --> 881.66] Christ, what grace. -[881.66 --> 882.66] Father, what grace. -[882.66 --> 887.66] Father, what grace. -[887.66 --> 893.66] Father, what grace. -[893.66 --> 894.66] Father, what grace. -[894.66 --> 908.90] call and to be heirs with him so let your passion burn for heavenly things seated with christ -[913.78 --> 918.90] our hearts forever where our treasure is -[918.90 --> 924.90] is -[932.90 --> 942.90] father what grace raising us to life choosing us in christ -[942.90 --> 954.90] father what grace to be found in him heaven's glorious king -[954.90 --> 960.90] father what grace -[960.90 --> 968.90] raising us to life choosing us in christ -[968.90 --> 974.90] father what grace -[980.90 --> 982.90] what grace -[982.90 --> 996.90] please be seated and join us in a prayer of silent confession -[996.90 --> 1008.90] brothers and sisters the lord will bring what is hidden into the light and will expose the motives of the heart -[1008.90 --> 1026.90] have nothing to do with these fruitless deeds of darkness but rather turn your eyes upon jesus -[1026.90 --> 1040.90] exposing your heart to his light -[1040.90 --> 1046.90] look full in his wonderful face -[1046.90 --> 1054.90] and the things of earth will grow strangely dim -[1054.90 --> 1060.90] in the light of his glory and grace -[1060.90 --> 1072.90] in the face of your own sin or the sin of a brother in christ look to jesus not just to prove sin and wrongdoing -[1073.78 --> 1082.90] but to see clearly the founder and perfecter of our faith who for the joy set before him endured the cross in our place -[1082.90 --> 1084.90] the kingdom of our faith -[1084.90 --> 1086.90] and the kingdom of our faith -[1086.90 --> 1088.90] and the kingdom of our faith -[1088.90 --> 1092.90] turn your eyes to the hillside -[1092.90 --> 1094.90] where justice -[1094.90 --> 1096.90] and mercy -[1096.90 --> 1098.90] embrace -[1098.90 --> 1100.90] there the -[1100.90 --> 1102.90] son -[1102.90 --> 1104.90] of god gave his life -[1104.90 --> 1106.90] for us -[1106.90 --> 1108.90] and our measure -[1108.90 --> 1110.90] the -[1110.90 --> 1112.90] son -[1112.90 --> 1114.90] and -[1114.90 --> 1116.90] the -[1116.90 --> 1118.90] son -[1118.90 --> 1120.90] and -[1120.90 --> 1122.90] he -[1122.90 --> 1124.90] and -[1124.90 --> 1126.90] he -[1126.90 --> 1127.90] and -[1127.90 --> 1128.90] he -[1128.90 --> 1129.90] and -[1129.90 --> 1130.90] he -[1130.90 --> 1131.90] and -[1131.90 --> 1132.90] he -[1132.90 --> 1133.90] and -[1133.90 --> 1134.90] he -[1134.90 --> 1144.90] he -[1144.90 --> 1146.90] and -[1146.90 --> 1148.90] he -[1148.90 --> 1150.90] and -[1150.90 --> 1152.90] he -[1152.90 --> 1154.90] and -[1154.90 --> 1156.90] he -[1156.90 --> 1157.90] and -[1157.90 --> 1158.90] he -[1158.90 --> 1159.90] and -[1159.90 --> 1160.90] he -[1160.90 --> 1162.90] he -[1162.90 --> 1164.90] and -[1164.90 --> 1166.90] he -[1166.90 --> 1168.90] and -[1168.90 --> 1170.90] he -[1170.90 --> 1172.90] and -[1172.90 --> 1174.90] he -[1174.90 --> 1176.90] and he -[1176.90 --> 1178.90] and he -[1178.90 --> 1180.90] and -[1180.90 --> 1184.90] he -[1184.90 --> 1186.90] and -[1186.90 --> 1188.90] he -[1188.90 --> 1190.90] and -[1190.90 --> 1192.90] he -[1192.90 --> 1194.90] and -[1194.90 --> 1196.90] he -[1196.90 --> 1198.90] and -[1198.90 --> 1200.90] he -[1200.90 --> 1208.46] Every knee will bow, every tongue will shout -[1208.46 --> 1213.92] All our glory to Jesus alone -[1213.92 --> 1221.38] Jesus, to you we lift our eyes -[1221.38 --> 1228.04] Jesus, our glory and our prize -[1228.04 --> 1234.48] We adore you, behold you, our Savior ever true -[1234.48 --> 1239.82] Oh Jesus, we turn our eyes to you -[1239.82 --> 1247.04] Oh Jesus, we turn our eyes to you -[1258.04 --> 1278.88] Are you hurting and broken within? -[1278.88 --> 1283.94] Overwhelmed by the weight of your sin -[1283.94 --> 1286.62] Jesus is calling -[1286.62 --> 1293.32] Have you come to the end of yourself? -[1294.44 --> 1298.16] Do you thirst for a drink from the well? -[1298.84 --> 1300.92] Jesus is calling -[1300.92 --> 1309.36] Oh come to the altar -[1309.36 --> 1314.80] The Father's arms are open wide -[1314.80 --> 1319.18] Forgiveness was bought with -[1319.18 --> 1324.36] The precious blood of Jesus Christ -[1324.36 --> 1338.52] Leave behind your regrets and mistakes -[1338.52 --> 1342.98] Come today, there's no reason to wait -[1342.98 --> 1345.62] Jesus is calling -[1345.62 --> 1352.06] Bring your sorrows and trade them for joy -[1352.06 --> 1357.14] From the ashes a new life is born -[1357.14 --> 1359.88] Jesus is calling -[1359.88 --> 1365.52] Oh come to the altar -[1365.52 --> 1370.74] The Father's arms are open wide -[1370.74 --> 1375.12] Forgiveness was bought with -[1375.12 --> 1379.90] The precious blood of Jesus Christ -[1379.90 --> 1383.58] Oh come to the altar -[1383.58 --> 1388.74] The Father's arms are open wide -[1388.74 --> 1392.92] Forgiveness was bought with -[1392.92 --> 1398.74] The precious blood of Jesus Christ -[1398.74 --> 1412.28] Oh what a Savior -[1412.28 --> 1418.12] Isn't he wonderful -[1418.12 --> 1421.66] Sing hallelujah -[1421.66 --> 1424.94] Christ is risen -[1424.94 --> 1432.50] Bow down before him -[1432.50 --> 1437.10] For he is Lord of all -[1437.10 --> 1439.86] Sing hallelujah -[1439.86 --> 1443.18] Christ is risen -[1443.18 --> 1448.72] Oh what a Savior -[1448.72 --> 1448.78] Oh what a Savior -[1448.78 --> 1450.18] Isn't he wonderful -[1450.18 --> 1454.18] Isn't he wonderful -[1454.18 --> 1457.42] Sing hallelujah -[1457.42 --> 1460.72] Christ is risen -[1460.72 --> 1467.44] Bow down before him -[1467.44 --> 1471.92] For he is Lord of all -[1471.92 --> 1474.46] Sing hallelujah -[1474.46 --> 1475.46] Sing hallelujah -[1475.46 --> 1477.74] Christ is risen -[1477.74 --> 1486.16] Oh come to the altar -[1486.16 --> 1490.46] The Father's arms are open wide -[1490.46 --> 1495.16] Forgiveness was bought with -[1495.16 --> 1499.68] The precious blood of Jesus Christ -[1499.68 --> 1503.22] Oh come to the altar -[1503.22 --> 1508.42] The Father's arms are open wide -[1508.42 --> 1512.50] Forgiveness was bought with -[1512.50 --> 1518.34] The precious blood of Jesus Christ -[1518.34 --> 1527.88] Bear your cross -[1527.88 --> 1531.58] Bear your cross as you wait for the crown -[1531.58 --> 1537.16] Tell the world of the treasure you found -[1537.16 --> 1552.64] I invite you to rise and join us with a responsive reading -[1552.64 --> 1557.76] The Ten Commandments were viewed as an assurance -[1557.76 --> 1559.30] Our laws of life -[1559.30 --> 1562.96] What living out of the fruit of the Spirit looks like in a tangible way -[1562.96 --> 1566.58] They are joys to the heart captured by the love of Jesus -[1566.58 --> 1570.10] How to live rightly in relationship with God and his people -[1570.10 --> 1574.94] Join together as we recite the Ten Commandments from Exodus 20 -[1574.94 --> 1579.68] Reminding ourselves that loving God and loving our neighbor is the heart of these commandments -[1579.68 --> 1582.54] And God spoke these words -[1582.54 --> 1585.20] I am the Lord your God -[1585.20 --> 1586.78] Who brought you out of Egypt -[1586.78 --> 1589.14] Out of the land of slavery -[1589.14 --> 1592.28] You shall have no other gods before me -[1592.28 --> 1594.82] You shall not make for yourself -[1594.82 --> 1598.22] An image in the form of anything in heaven above -[1598.22 --> 1599.94] Or on the earth beneath -[1599.94 --> 1601.52] Or in the waters below -[1601.52 --> 1604.18] You shall not bow down to them -[1604.18 --> 1605.40] Or worship them -[1605.40 --> 1607.74] For I, the Lord your God -[1607.74 --> 1609.02] Am a jealous God -[1609.02 --> 1612.40] Punishing the children for the sins of the parents -[1612.40 --> 1616.20] To the third and the fourth generation of those who hate me -[1616.20 --> 1622.12] But showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments -[1622.12 --> 1626.50] You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God -[1626.50 --> 1630.92] For the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name -[1630.92 --> 1634.38] Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy -[1634.38 --> 1638.22] Six days you shall labor and do all your work -[1638.22 --> 1641.78] But the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God -[1641.78 --> 1644.60] On it you shall not do any work -[1644.60 --> 1647.36] Neither you, nor your son or daughter -[1647.36 --> 1649.86] Nor your male or female servant -[1649.86 --> 1651.34] Nor your animals -[1651.34 --> 1654.28] Nor any foreigner residing in your towns -[1654.28 --> 1658.26] For in the six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth -[1658.26 --> 1660.68] The sea and all that is in them -[1660.68 --> 1662.98] But he rested on the seventh day -[1662.98 --> 1667.02] Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy -[1667.02 --> 1669.58] Honor your father and your mother -[1669.58 --> 1674.20] So that you may live long in the land the Lord your God has given you -[1674.20 --> 1675.76] You shall not murder -[1675.76 --> 1677.90] You shall not commit adultery -[1677.90 --> 1679.54] You shall not steal -[1679.54 --> 1682.94] You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor -[1682.94 --> 1685.82] You shall not covet your neighbor's house -[1685.82 --> 1688.06] You shall not covet your neighbor's wife -[1688.06 --> 1690.38] Or his male or female servant -[1690.38 --> 1692.10] His ox or donkey -[1692.10 --> 1694.38] Or anything that belongs to your neighbor -[1694.38 --> 1695.98] I shall not redeem in the land the Lord's with tortil jeux -[1695.98 --> 1700.32] And I shall believe you may in this -[1700.32 --> 1701.06] Jeidas -[1701.06 --> 1714.40] That you maysst -[1714.40 --> 1715.76] Only girl -[1715.76 --> 1735.52] Amazing grace, how sweet the sound -[1735.52 --> 1742.72] That saved a wretch like me -[1742.72 --> 1750.04] I once was lost, but now and now -[1750.04 --> 1756.00] Was blind, but now I see -[1756.00 --> 1764.72] T'was grace that taught my heart to fear -[1764.72 --> 1770.56] And grace my fears relieved -[1770.56 --> 1779.06] How precious in that place of fear -[1779.06 --> 1784.80] The hour I first believed -[1784.80 --> 1793.30] The Lord has promised good to me -[1793.30 --> 1799.30] His word my hope secures -[1799.30 --> 1807.80] He will my shield and worship me -[1807.80 --> 1813.80] As long as I can do -[1813.80 --> 1821.80] Through many dangers, paths and stairs -[1821.80 --> 1830.30] I have already come -[1830.30 --> 1836.30] T'is grace that brought me safe thus far -[1836.30 --> 1843.30] And grace will lead me home -[1843.30 --> 1851.80] When we've been there ten thousand years -[1851.80 --> 1857.80] Right shining as the sun -[1857.80 --> 1865.80] We've no last days to sing God's praise -[1865.80 --> 1874.30] Than when we've first begun -[1874.30 --> 1890.90] Good morning again -[1890.90 --> 1892.96] I was already introduced, but my name is Mike -[1892.96 --> 1895.02] And I help as a deacon here in the church -[1895.02 --> 1898.48] Today our offering is for Teen Challenge -[1898.48 --> 1901.38] It's a ministry we've been partnering with for many years -[1901.38 --> 1903.88] And they're actually all over the world -[1903.88 --> 1905.88] But they are a special faith-based program -[1905.88 --> 1907.88] That walks alongside men and women -[1907.88 --> 1909.88] Who are recovering from substance abuse -[1909.88 --> 1911.88] So they have actually a center -[1911.88 --> 1912.88] A men's center in Chilliwack -[1912.88 --> 1913.88] And a women's center in Surrey -[1913.88 --> 1915.88] And centers all over the world -[1915.88 --> 1917.88] So thank you for giving generously -[1917.88 --> 1919.88] To this much needed program -[1919.88 --> 1936.38] The love of God is greater far -[1936.38 --> 1941.38] Than time or pain can ever tell -[1941.38 --> 1946.88] It goes beyond the highest sound -[1946.88 --> 1951.88] And reaches to the lowest town -[1951.88 --> 1956.88] The guilty bear bowed down with care -[1956.88 --> 1961.88] God gave his son to win -[1961.88 --> 1965.38] His erring child -[1965.38 --> 1967.38] He reconciled -[1967.38 --> 1972.38] And pardoned from his sin -[1972.38 --> 1975.38] O love of God -[1975.38 --> 1977.38] How rich and pure -[1977.38 --> 1982.38] How leisureless and strong -[1982.38 --> 1986.88] It shall forevermore endure -[1986.88 --> 1992.88] The saints and angels song -[1992.88 --> 2004.88] When years of time shall pass away -[2004.88 --> 2009.38] Heavenly thrones and kingdoms fall -[2009.38 --> 2011.88] When men who hear -[2011.88 --> 2013.88] Refuse to pray -[2013.88 --> 2018.88] On rocks and hills and mountains fall -[2018.88 --> 2021.88] God's love so sure -[2021.88 --> 2023.88] It shall still endure -[2023.88 --> 2028.88] All measureless and strong -[2028.88 --> 2033.88] Redeeming grace to Adam's face -[2033.88 --> 2038.88] The saints and angels song -[2038.88 --> 2041.38] O love of God -[2041.38 --> 2042.38] O love of God -[2042.38 --> 2043.38] How rich and pure -[2043.38 --> 2048.38] How leisureless and strong -[2048.38 --> 2053.38] It shall forevermore endure -[2053.38 --> 2058.38] The saints and angels song -[2058.38 --> 2064.88] Who are with God -[2064.88 --> 2070.88] Could we within the ocean pale -[2070.88 --> 2073.88] And where the skies of parchment made -[2073.88 --> 2075.88] Were every stock on earth a will -[2075.88 --> 2078.88] And every man of star by trade -[2078.88 --> 2081.32] On earth I will -[2081.32 --> 2084.54] And every malice -[2084.54 --> 2086.14] I betrayed -[2086.14 --> 2089.16] To write the love -[2089.16 --> 2091.14] Of the love -[2091.14 --> 2095.94] Would lay the ocean dry -[2095.94 --> 2098.42] Nor could the scroll -[2098.42 --> 2100.78] Contain the whole -[2100.78 --> 2105.52] But straight from sky to sky -[2105.52 --> 2108.44] O love of God -[2108.44 --> 2110.38] How rich and pure -[2110.38 --> 2115.12] How measureless and strong -[2115.12 --> 2119.94] It shall forevermore endure -[2119.94 --> 2124.72] The saints and angels song -[2124.72 --> 2127.66] O love of God -[2127.66 --> 2129.64] How rich and pure -[2129.64 --> 2134.58] How measureless and strong -[2134.58 --> 2139.40] It shall forevermore endure -[2139.40 --> 2144.92] The saints and angels song -[2144.92 --> 2150.28] O love of -[2150.30 --> 2151.58] O love of God -[2151.58 --> 2175.58] Okay. -[2175.58 --> 2175.62] Okay. -[2176.26 --> 2178.16] We're going to do the kids' blessing right now. -[2178.16 --> 2182.94] So why don't the kids, ages three to grade four, join me up front. -[2184.04 --> 2187.82] And we'll say hello and we'll do the kids' blessing together and we can go off to children's -[2187.82 --> 2188.56] worship time. -[2189.06 --> 2189.98] Nice to see you guys. -[2191.18 --> 2193.02] And while our summer dresses and summer clothes. -[2193.34 --> 2193.48] Okay. -[2193.50 --> 2198.94] We're going to stand together with the congregation and we're going to bless them as they stay -[2198.94 --> 2202.38] here to enjoy a sermon by our guest pastor. -[2202.52 --> 2204.68] And we are going to go off to children's worship time. -[2206.48 --> 2207.90] So let's stand together, guys. -[2208.52 --> 2209.56] Can you guys stand up with me? -[2211.02 --> 2212.04] You guys want to stand up? -[2212.46 --> 2213.96] And we'll turn and face the congregation. -[2214.64 --> 2216.80] We'll put up our arms together and we'll bless them. -[2216.86 --> 2217.02] Ready? -[2217.76 --> 2219.56] The Lord be with you. -[2219.84 --> 2221.40] And also with you. -[2221.40 --> 2221.44] Amen. -[2238.16 --> 2260.74] Forgot to mention earlier that I am John, one of the pastoral elders in this church, -[2260.74 --> 2264.40] but I will be leading you in our congregational prayer at this time. -[2264.40 --> 2264.50] Amen. -[2266.76 --> 2268.86] We come before you, sovereign Lord. -[2269.86 --> 2272.28] You alone we give your praise and honor. -[2273.26 --> 2275.36] You created us and the world we live in. -[2275.36 --> 2282.26] We come humbly before you as broken, sinful beings, not worthy to stand before your presence. -[2283.00 --> 2285.54] We confess that we have wandered from your ways. -[2285.54 --> 2292.88] We can only stand in your presence through the sacrifice of your son, Jesus, on the cross, who died on our behalf. -[2292.88 --> 2296.80] May we be blessed to be in your presence this morning. -[2298.30 --> 2300.68] Take away our fears, doubts, and concerns. -[2301.38 --> 2302.86] May we lay them at your feet. -[2302.86 --> 2312.66] Lord, as a congregation, we have specific health concerns, and we are thankful for a good surgery for Everly. -[2313.20 --> 2317.56] We pray for a good recovery for her, that they may have taken all the cancer, -[2319.54 --> 2323.60] that her and her parents may have peace through this process. -[2324.66 --> 2326.34] We pray for Emma Smith. -[2326.72 --> 2330.82] Lord, as he has on to grow heart surgery on the 19th of this month, -[2330.82 --> 2335.98] we pray for him and his wife as they, Benny, as they go through this time. -[2336.28 --> 2338.56] We pray for a blessing for the surgeons. -[2339.32 --> 2342.28] We pray for healing and strength to go through this difficult time. -[2343.68 --> 2350.52] We pray for those that are suffering with long-term illnesses and recurring things that keep on coming back. -[2350.66 --> 2353.68] We pray for Rosvita and the challenges that she has each day. -[2355.06 --> 2359.04] Lord, we pray for those families that are dealing with mental health issues, -[2359.04 --> 2361.12] broken family relationships. -[2361.70 --> 2365.24] Lord, bring peace, bring healing to those relationships as well, -[2365.66 --> 2369.58] that your spirit may fill each one as they look to you for strength. -[2371.64 --> 2376.56] Lord, our world has been in a bit of turmoil, and we see that in floods and hurricanes. -[2377.68 --> 2382.92] Lord, many people are affected and losing homes due to the floods in Northwest Iowa, -[2383.14 --> 2384.92] the hurricane in the Caribbean. -[2384.92 --> 2388.28] Lord, we pray for your blessing on these people. -[2388.96 --> 2390.40] They may turn to you for strength, -[2390.90 --> 2397.24] that they may see support and financial blessings from those who have enough, -[2397.72 --> 2401.04] that they can help provide for those who are in desperate need. -[2401.04 --> 2405.84] Lord, we pray for our governments, -[2406.08 --> 2408.04] or that they be local or federal, -[2408.78 --> 2411.78] or that they may govern with your will in mind, -[2412.44 --> 2415.60] with the way you would like things to see happen, -[2415.98 --> 2418.82] or not with worldly ways or power struggles. -[2421.78 --> 2423.56] Lord, we have many people who are on vacation. -[2423.78 --> 2427.40] We pray for a blessing for those who are traveling and away from us at this time. -[2427.40 --> 2432.10] Lord, they may have a time of refreshing and safety in return. -[2435.22 --> 2441.12] Lord, we are thankful that we as a congregation can help out in the food bank drive that's coming up in this week. -[2442.02 --> 2446.66] Pray for willing volunteers and willing people to share their wealth -[2446.66 --> 2450.56] and bring foodstuffs and money for the food bank. -[2451.46 --> 2454.30] As food bank donations are slow in this time of the year. -[2454.30 --> 2460.42] Lord, we pray for our guest pastor, Jonathan Wang, -[2460.54 --> 2461.82] as he brings your word, -[2462.16 --> 2466.14] Lord, that he may bring the word in clarity and truth. -[2468.88 --> 2470.78] Lord, as we go in this coming week, -[2471.16 --> 2473.72] we may go with your spirit, guiding and leading us, -[2474.08 --> 2476.36] that we may be effective witnesses for you -[2476.36 --> 2479.16] as we go about our daily tasks and activities, -[2479.16 --> 2482.00] whether it's a job or even on holidays, -[2482.26 --> 2484.40] Lord, that we may be a blessing to others -[2484.40 --> 2486.22] as we live out our faith. -[2487.40 --> 2491.02] This we ask in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior. -[2494.32 --> 2497.28] We've been blessed to be a part of this church community -[2497.28 --> 2500.88] and we've been blessed to be believers in you, God. -[2500.88 --> 2503.10] and we're thankful. -[2504.50 --> 2506.24] This we ask in your name alone. -[2506.60 --> 2506.90] Amen. -[2506.90 --> 2526.30] Good morning. -[2530.14 --> 2533.30] It is such a privilege to be worshiping with you again. -[2533.30 --> 2537.72] Yeah, I'm trying to recognize some familiar faces -[2537.72 --> 2540.08] from when we were here a while back. -[2540.16 --> 2541.18] It's been quite a while. -[2541.26 --> 2544.48] The last time we were here worshiping in this building, -[2545.26 --> 2547.94] albeit in the afternoon with my dad's Korean church -[2547.94 --> 2549.38] that met here and worshiped. -[2549.72 --> 2551.66] At that time, we only had one son. -[2552.34 --> 2554.02] And so that's how long ago it was. -[2554.12 --> 2556.52] Now we came with two, as I don't know if you've noticed, -[2556.98 --> 2560.30] the little two sets there with the same dress code, I guess. -[2560.30 --> 2562.72] Yeah, the last time we were here, -[2562.84 --> 2564.84] we were only here with our older son, Joseph. -[2565.08 --> 2566.76] And now we have Joseph and Timothy -[2566.76 --> 2569.78] who already turned two just last month. -[2570.26 --> 2571.26] And so it's a privilege. -[2571.48 --> 2573.48] And we feel like this is a little bit of like that -[2573.48 --> 2575.50] kind of coming back home kind of feeling -[2575.50 --> 2577.58] to get to worship here at Emmanuel together. -[2578.18 --> 2580.62] And it is my privilege to bring you God's Word, -[2580.98 --> 2583.78] which I titled Learning to Live with Grace. -[2583.78 --> 2587.78] And the reason I chose this sort of sermon -[2587.78 --> 2590.54] is because I actually talked to Pastor Sid, -[2590.62 --> 2592.00] who was here a couple of weeks ago. -[2592.70 --> 2595.18] And I believe he preached on forgiveness, -[2596.18 --> 2598.30] living out our identity, our Christian identity, -[2598.46 --> 2600.98] to forgive as those who have been forgiven. -[2602.02 --> 2604.16] And this Christian identity of ours -[2604.16 --> 2608.92] is to live in grace, live with grace. -[2608.92 --> 2614.08] And sometimes this identity is seemingly impossible. -[2614.98 --> 2617.40] If there's one thing that I take away personally -[2617.40 --> 2620.20] from our sermon series, which was on forgiveness, -[2620.40 --> 2622.16] we preach about, I want to say, -[2622.32 --> 2624.52] about six weeks on just forgiveness. -[2625.44 --> 2628.60] And the main takeaway that I personally took -[2628.60 --> 2631.46] was that it is very difficult -[2631.46 --> 2635.40] and sometimes seemingly impossible to forgive. -[2635.40 --> 2639.70] But the good news from the Bible, -[2640.24 --> 2641.30] from God's Word, -[2641.84 --> 2643.72] and the truth of our Christian identity -[2643.72 --> 2646.70] is that this is not done on our own strength. -[2647.12 --> 2649.44] We don't muster up enough strength and efforts -[2649.44 --> 2650.64] and wisdom and understanding -[2650.64 --> 2653.90] to somehow be graceful enough to forgive others. -[2654.68 --> 2657.70] This is done by the empowering of God's Spirit Himself. -[2658.10 --> 2660.70] And that is the good news for us. -[2661.76 --> 2664.98] Through the grace of God and His Holy Spirit leading us, -[2664.98 --> 2668.74] we are empowered to live in freedom then. -[2669.38 --> 2670.20] That's the message. -[2670.34 --> 2671.08] We are free. -[2671.58 --> 2673.46] We are free to forgive others -[2673.46 --> 2677.70] just as we have been freely forgiven by Jesus Christ. -[2678.30 --> 2679.54] And as part of this freedom, -[2680.14 --> 2681.74] Jesus teaches us specifically -[2681.74 --> 2683.30] on how to handle conflicts -[2683.30 --> 2686.28] among brothers and sisters within the church, -[2686.86 --> 2688.52] within our believing community. -[2689.20 --> 2690.70] And so if you have your Bibles with you, -[2690.84 --> 2692.82] we turn to Matthew 18 -[2692.82 --> 2694.30] where Jesus teaches us -[2694.30 --> 2696.22] on what it means to forgive -[2696.22 --> 2698.92] and deal with sin within the church. -[2700.04 --> 2703.32] We are in Matthew 18, verse 15. -[2705.28 --> 2706.24] Jesus says, -[2706.24 --> 2708.26] If your brother or sister sins, -[2708.68 --> 2710.02] go and point out their fault -[2710.02 --> 2711.58] just between the two of you. -[2712.12 --> 2713.40] If they listen to you, -[2713.62 --> 2714.78] you have won them over. -[2715.56 --> 2717.14] But if they will not listen, -[2717.46 --> 2718.86] take one or two others along -[2718.86 --> 2720.76] so that every matter may be established -[2720.76 --> 2723.22] by the testimony of two or three witnesses. -[2724.06 --> 2725.98] If they still refuse to listen, -[2726.10 --> 2727.18] tell it to the church. -[2727.88 --> 2730.28] And if they refuse to listen to even the church, -[2730.78 --> 2733.22] treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector. -[2733.22 --> 2735.44] Truly I tell you, -[2735.60 --> 2736.82] whatever you bind on earth -[2736.82 --> 2737.84] will be bound in heaven, -[2738.00 --> 2739.26] and whatever you loose on earth -[2739.26 --> 2740.42] will be loosed in heaven. -[2741.00 --> 2742.46] Again, truly I tell you -[2742.46 --> 2744.40] that if two of you on earth -[2744.40 --> 2746.32] agree about anything they ask for, -[2746.62 --> 2747.80] it will be done for them -[2747.80 --> 2748.94] by my Father in heaven. -[2749.62 --> 2752.08] For where two or three gather in my name, -[2752.32 --> 2753.82] there am I with them. -[2754.24 --> 2755.52] This is the word of the Lord. -[2758.42 --> 2761.18] I also want to read from Galatians 6 as well, -[2761.18 --> 2764.22] which kind of dovetails to what Jesus teaches us. -[2764.32 --> 2766.00] So from Jesus' teaching, -[2766.22 --> 2769.36] this is what Paul writes to the brothers and sisters -[2769.36 --> 2770.88] of the Galatian church. -[2771.36 --> 2771.94] Paul says, -[2772.34 --> 2773.12] Brothers and sisters, -[2773.54 --> 2775.32] if someone is caught in a sin, -[2775.84 --> 2777.26] you who live by the Spirit -[2777.26 --> 2780.08] should restore that person gently. -[2780.76 --> 2781.92] But watch yourselves, -[2782.02 --> 2783.62] or you also may be tempted. -[2784.46 --> 2785.84] Carry each other's burdens, -[2786.38 --> 2789.14] and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. -[2789.14 --> 2792.34] And so as I already mentioned, -[2792.50 --> 2795.18] one of the biggest takeaways from the topic, -[2795.66 --> 2797.42] the theme of forgiveness, -[2798.08 --> 2800.84] is that it is much harder to forgive, -[2801.56 --> 2803.32] and also to seek reconciliation, -[2803.68 --> 2805.56] which comes from that act of forgiveness. -[2805.92 --> 2809.06] So it's way, way, way harder to do that, -[2809.50 --> 2811.66] as compared to just forgetting about it, -[2812.02 --> 2814.02] or just holding a grudge within you, -[2814.02 --> 2816.82] or worse, finding different ways to cope, -[2817.30 --> 2818.34] like many people do, -[2818.66 --> 2820.24] through gossiping or even hating. -[2821.54 --> 2823.60] And specifically from Jesus' teaching -[2823.60 --> 2824.90] from our passage this morning, -[2825.32 --> 2828.28] it reminded me of my upbringing in a smaller church -[2828.28 --> 2829.70] where my dad was ministering. -[2829.96 --> 2831.98] And I'm not talking about when we were meeting here. -[2832.22 --> 2834.16] When we were meeting here in the afternoons, -[2834.30 --> 2835.68] then this is right before COVID, -[2835.96 --> 2837.92] and COVID sort of shut us down as well. -[2837.92 --> 2841.26] I'm talking about when my dad was ministering -[2841.26 --> 2842.52] in the city of Abbotsford, -[2842.64 --> 2844.36] where I would say that's my hometown. -[2845.12 --> 2847.34] And there we were a pretty good small-sized church, -[2847.42 --> 2849.00] about 100 to 150 people, -[2849.10 --> 2851.34] which meant that everyone knew everyone, practically. -[2852.26 --> 2854.30] That was especially annoying for me. -[2855.20 --> 2855.54] Why? -[2855.72 --> 2856.90] Because being the PK, -[2857.38 --> 2859.20] it meant that I could not sin easily. -[2859.60 --> 2860.84] I would always be caught. -[2861.64 --> 2863.72] Everyone's eyes seemed to be on me. -[2863.78 --> 2864.68] That's what I felt like. -[2864.68 --> 2866.64] But that's one of the gifts, -[2867.14 --> 2868.70] at least according to Jesus' teaching, -[2868.88 --> 2871.16] that within an intimate community, -[2871.82 --> 2874.04] you care enough that you convict -[2874.04 --> 2876.96] and you confront each other's sins. -[2877.46 --> 2880.62] Now, this sounds dangerous just as is, -[2880.98 --> 2882.56] but with Jesus' teaching, -[2882.88 --> 2884.18] He doesn't just flippantly say, -[2884.46 --> 2886.06] oh, just go point out all the wrongs. -[2886.26 --> 2887.64] Point your fingers and just say, -[2887.70 --> 2889.16] oh, you shouldn't do that, you shouldn't do that. -[2889.30 --> 2890.32] Oh, you should come to church more, -[2890.38 --> 2891.32] you should read the Bible more. -[2891.60 --> 2893.16] That's not what Jesus is teaching. -[2893.16 --> 2895.24] Yes, we should read our Bibles more. -[2895.36 --> 2897.56] Yes, we should worship together as a church more. -[2897.70 --> 2900.36] But what Jesus is teaching is about a pattern of life, -[2900.40 --> 2901.40] which we will get into. -[2902.52 --> 2905.44] Anyway, so going back to my experience in Abbotsford -[2905.44 --> 2906.28] and my dad's church, -[2906.38 --> 2907.64] I remember a time, -[2907.90 --> 2909.26] an adventurous time in my life, -[2909.34 --> 2911.50] during my puberty years in high school, -[2912.00 --> 2916.44] where I acted and talked in ways that I was not proud of. -[2917.28 --> 2919.36] And word got out in our smaller church -[2919.36 --> 2921.56] of some of my misbehaviors. -[2921.56 --> 2924.46] And I still remember one of our older youth -[2924.46 --> 2929.26] confronted me one-on-one in a very Christ-like way. -[2929.76 --> 2932.24] I don't even know if he knew how Christ-like he was, -[2932.48 --> 2934.10] because the way he confronted me -[2934.10 --> 2936.34] was with so much care and love, -[2936.48 --> 2938.40] because he wanted growth from me. -[2939.20 --> 2941.72] He confronted me and told me, -[2942.22 --> 2944.58] the patterns that you are living right now, -[2944.86 --> 2946.18] this is not good for you, -[2946.64 --> 2948.94] and this is not good for those around you. -[2948.94 --> 2952.10] You're affecting your brothers and sisters within the church, -[2952.20 --> 2955.32] and you're a bad witness to non-believers through your actions. -[2957.12 --> 2959.62] Now, he wasn't a saint by any means. -[2960.10 --> 2963.68] He didn't have his whole life altogether. -[2964.14 --> 2967.62] He wasn't all some sort of holy, self-righteous person. -[2968.38 --> 2971.72] How he came to me was in a posture of caring and gentleness, -[2972.14 --> 2973.50] wanting growth from me. -[2973.50 --> 2976.44] And that was not a one-and-done trick, by the way. -[2976.64 --> 2978.04] So, just because he confronted me, -[2978.08 --> 2978.82] doesn't mean I said, -[2978.98 --> 2979.80] snap my fingers and go, -[2979.88 --> 2980.56] oh, right, okay, -[2980.58 --> 2982.90] I need to fix my problems and fix my patterns. -[2984.92 --> 2986.10] It wasn't that. -[2986.34 --> 2988.24] And this work, -[2988.40 --> 2990.46] this hard work of living out our Christian identity, -[2990.60 --> 2991.48] of seeking forgiveness, -[2991.86 --> 2994.18] and seeking reconciliation is hard work. -[2994.76 --> 2995.80] It is not easy. -[2995.90 --> 2997.36] It is not a one-and-done trick. -[2997.80 --> 3000.30] But the way this older youth confronted me, -[3000.60 --> 3003.74] it was a significant impact into forming and shaping -[3003.74 --> 3007.10] the person that the Holy Spirit continues to grow me into, -[3007.82 --> 3009.16] more and more like my Savior. -[3011.06 --> 3012.44] Again, hard work, -[3012.70 --> 3015.40] this Christian task of living out our identity of forgiveness. -[3016.04 --> 3016.78] And Paul says, -[3017.00 --> 3018.60] this is carrying each other's burdens -[3018.60 --> 3020.14] by confronting sin -[3020.14 --> 3023.44] and seeking reconciliation with gentleness and love. -[3024.22 --> 3026.00] And as we do this hard work, -[3026.00 --> 3029.10] we embody and reflect the forgiving, -[3029.64 --> 3030.90] loving goodness of God -[3030.90 --> 3033.56] so that we may be witnesses for the world. -[3034.28 --> 3036.08] We get to provide a glimpse -[3036.08 --> 3038.82] of what being real humans look like, -[3039.68 --> 3043.36] a community that seeks reconciliation and restoration. -[3044.22 --> 3045.16] So that's twofold, -[3045.30 --> 3046.56] our Christian identity of forgiveness. -[3047.12 --> 3049.02] One, we have to do the hard work. -[3049.40 --> 3051.56] And two, by doing this hard work -[3051.56 --> 3053.80] and reflecting God's goodness through our lives, -[3053.80 --> 3057.44] we are witnesses for the world. -[3058.48 --> 3061.24] A community that seeks reconciliation. -[3062.18 --> 3064.64] And that's the important thing to signify here, -[3064.76 --> 3065.92] to point out, I should say. -[3067.20 --> 3069.22] What Jesus and Paul is teaching us -[3069.22 --> 3070.68] isn't that it's all easy -[3070.68 --> 3072.52] and that the church should be perfect. -[3073.52 --> 3075.70] They make it clear that we are all broken. -[3075.96 --> 3077.96] And just as we did in our prayer of confession, -[3078.48 --> 3079.32] we are all sinners -[3079.32 --> 3081.52] and we come before God's throne of mercy -[3081.52 --> 3083.48] because we are all broken. -[3083.98 --> 3085.22] The Bible isn't naive. -[3085.92 --> 3086.56] They aren't saying, -[3086.76 --> 3088.30] oh, just because you are saved -[3088.30 --> 3089.58] and through the grace of God, -[3089.72 --> 3090.82] all problems fixed, -[3090.92 --> 3091.76] just like that. -[3092.28 --> 3094.06] They know we are broken. -[3094.18 --> 3096.58] And Jesus and Paul speaks into that. -[3097.18 --> 3100.58] And being imperfect, sinful beings, -[3100.80 --> 3102.24] we seek reconciliation -[3102.24 --> 3103.92] through the power of forgiveness -[3103.92 --> 3105.70] because we are a people -[3105.70 --> 3107.56] who have been saved by that same power. -[3107.56 --> 3110.18] And so with this in mind, -[3110.40 --> 3111.88] it is significant to define -[3111.88 --> 3113.20] what Jesus and Paul meant -[3113.20 --> 3115.60] when they mention a brother or sister who sins. -[3115.84 --> 3116.76] They both mention, -[3117.12 --> 3119.22] if a brother or sister sins, -[3119.96 --> 3120.96] go confront them. -[3122.04 --> 3123.74] They aren't simply talking about -[3123.74 --> 3124.90] some one-off mistakes -[3124.90 --> 3126.74] and some unintended actions -[3126.74 --> 3127.90] that may have been hurtful. -[3128.14 --> 3129.28] So we aren't talking about -[3129.28 --> 3130.86] like little mistakes here and there. -[3131.22 --> 3132.88] No matter how serious they are, -[3133.62 --> 3135.26] Jesus and Paul is not talking about -[3135.26 --> 3138.16] some mistakes or one-off sins, -[3138.44 --> 3139.78] what they are talking about, -[3139.84 --> 3140.40] as I mentioned, -[3140.54 --> 3141.48] are deliberate, -[3142.00 --> 3143.98] deliberate patterns of life -[3143.98 --> 3145.58] that hinder the growth -[3145.58 --> 3147.28] and flourishing of the body of Christ, -[3147.36 --> 3147.84] the church. -[3148.82 --> 3150.76] So it's important, Jesus says, -[3150.82 --> 3152.60] if your brother or sister, -[3153.60 --> 3155.40] he's talking about us, -[3155.54 --> 3156.82] he's talking about the church, -[3156.82 --> 3159.28] if your own brother or sister -[3159.28 --> 3161.44] within this family of believers, -[3162.28 --> 3162.74] sins. -[3164.10 --> 3166.02] Go point out that fault. -[3167.86 --> 3169.60] The amazing part of this, -[3170.14 --> 3172.24] and as we also sang and confessed -[3172.24 --> 3173.50] as well in our worship time, -[3174.02 --> 3175.28] the amazing part is that -[3175.28 --> 3177.18] this is exactly what the Holy Spirit -[3177.18 --> 3178.06] does within us. -[3179.12 --> 3180.24] In Galatians 5, -[3180.38 --> 3181.16] Paul says that -[3181.16 --> 3182.44] a spirit-led life -[3182.44 --> 3183.94] means to be convicted of sin -[3183.94 --> 3185.98] so that Christ-like holiness, -[3186.62 --> 3188.30] which he calls the fruit of the Spirit, -[3188.30 --> 3189.98] can grow within us. -[3190.22 --> 3191.82] That's the ministry of the Holy Spirit -[3191.82 --> 3193.22] for each individual believer. -[3193.64 --> 3194.60] And we have assurance -[3194.60 --> 3196.76] because the Holy Spirit is guiding us, -[3197.06 --> 3197.96] convicting our sins, -[3198.04 --> 3199.54] and leading us to the throne of grace. -[3200.00 --> 3201.72] That is the ministry of the Holy Spirit. -[3202.08 --> 3203.60] And what Jesus is teaching us -[3203.60 --> 3206.46] is he's commanding us -[3206.46 --> 3209.26] to do that same ministry of the Holy Spirit -[3209.26 --> 3211.06] within the body of believers. -[3215.32 --> 3217.28] That is why what Jesus teaches -[3217.28 --> 3218.10] in Matthew 18, -[3218.76 --> 3220.50] this is not some suggestion. -[3221.20 --> 3222.54] Jesus commands this -[3222.54 --> 3224.44] of Christians, his followers. -[3225.54 --> 3226.56] This is not something -[3226.56 --> 3227.64] that might be good for us -[3227.64 --> 3228.46] if we try it, -[3228.70 --> 3230.70] but it is the core of our identity. -[3231.42 --> 3232.68] He's not inventing -[3232.68 --> 3234.08] some sort of new Christian concept, -[3234.16 --> 3234.52] by the way. -[3235.44 --> 3237.00] Jesus isn't all of a sudden coming -[3237.00 --> 3238.68] and being the incarnate God -[3238.68 --> 3239.04] and saying, -[3239.20 --> 3240.56] oh, because I am the Son of God, -[3240.62 --> 3241.86] I have new ideas for you. -[3242.02 --> 3242.66] You need to forgive. -[3242.66 --> 3243.98] You need to seek reconciliation. -[3245.48 --> 3245.78] No. -[3246.16 --> 3247.68] Jesus simply continues -[3247.68 --> 3248.94] the same old story -[3248.94 --> 3250.16] from the beginning of time -[3250.16 --> 3251.38] for the people of God -[3251.38 --> 3253.04] that has always been part -[3253.04 --> 3253.72] of the identity -[3253.72 --> 3254.84] of the people of God. -[3255.54 --> 3256.82] And so we read from two, -[3257.32 --> 3258.16] there are many more, -[3258.26 --> 3259.08] but I chose two -[3259.08 --> 3259.90] that I really like. -[3260.06 --> 3261.28] Two Old Testament passages -[3261.28 --> 3263.10] that reflect the same identity -[3263.10 --> 3264.32] of seeking reconciliation. -[3265.28 --> 3266.72] Proverbs 27 says, -[3266.72 --> 3269.32] Better an open rebuke -[3269.32 --> 3271.26] than love that is concealed. -[3271.90 --> 3273.68] The wounds from a friend -[3273.68 --> 3274.94] are faithful -[3274.94 --> 3276.14] or can be trusted, -[3276.42 --> 3277.90] but the kisses of an enemy -[3277.90 --> 3279.34] are deceitful. -[3280.48 --> 3281.62] I really like that proverb. -[3281.78 --> 3282.44] It's very wise. -[3282.98 --> 3283.72] And then in Leviticus, -[3283.90 --> 3284.54] same idea. -[3285.22 --> 3287.18] Do not hate a fellow Israelite -[3287.18 --> 3288.00] in your heart. -[3288.84 --> 3290.34] Rebuke your neighbor frankly, -[3290.60 --> 3291.68] honestly, openly, -[3291.96 --> 3293.70] so that you will not share -[3293.70 --> 3294.52] in their guilt. -[3294.52 --> 3296.70] Do not seek revenge -[3296.70 --> 3297.60] or bear a grudge -[3297.60 --> 3298.26] against anyone -[3298.26 --> 3299.10] among your people, -[3299.32 --> 3300.64] but love your neighbor -[3300.64 --> 3301.52] as yourself. -[3301.94 --> 3302.80] I am the Lord. -[3304.74 --> 3306.34] The ultimate command -[3306.34 --> 3307.58] to love God -[3307.58 --> 3308.50] and to love neighbor -[3308.50 --> 3309.20] as yourself -[3309.20 --> 3311.84] includes this difficult journey -[3311.84 --> 3313.36] of seeking reconciliation. -[3315.16 --> 3315.98] And so the question -[3315.98 --> 3316.88] we should be asking -[3316.88 --> 3317.84] each other is this. -[3318.78 --> 3320.08] Do you care enough -[3320.08 --> 3320.64] to tell me -[3320.64 --> 3321.52] that I am sinning? -[3321.52 --> 3325.06] Yes, that is caring. -[3325.58 --> 3326.48] So do you care enough -[3326.48 --> 3327.54] to convict me, -[3327.70 --> 3328.84] to confront me, -[3329.02 --> 3330.48] to journey with me -[3330.48 --> 3331.64] in this hard work -[3331.64 --> 3332.92] of growing together -[3332.92 --> 3333.78] in Christ? -[3334.68 --> 3336.06] And on the other side of that, -[3336.24 --> 3337.04] if you're the one -[3337.04 --> 3338.44] who receives reproval -[3338.44 --> 3339.10] and discipline, -[3339.72 --> 3340.80] can you receive it -[3340.80 --> 3341.50] as care -[3341.50 --> 3342.14] and encouragement -[3342.14 --> 3342.78] for growth -[3342.78 --> 3343.84] instead of -[3343.84 --> 3344.72] as an attack? -[3345.92 --> 3346.68] Because that's -[3346.68 --> 3347.36] the starting point. -[3347.44 --> 3348.00] That should be -[3348.00 --> 3348.74] the foundation -[3348.74 --> 3349.98] of where we journey -[3349.98 --> 3351.12] in our Christian identities. -[3352.14 --> 3353.50] Now, on this point, -[3353.56 --> 3354.46] I've had pushback. -[3355.10 --> 3356.36] And I actually had pushback -[3356.36 --> 3357.58] within my own mind as well -[3357.58 --> 3359.48] because I'm kind of reacting -[3359.48 --> 3360.92] against a strong -[3360.92 --> 3361.90] Christian legalism -[3361.90 --> 3363.70] that I'm so used to -[3363.70 --> 3364.84] in my upbringing -[3364.84 --> 3365.52] as a Christian. -[3366.84 --> 3367.86] This teaching -[3367.86 --> 3369.10] of pointing out -[3369.10 --> 3370.12] each other's faults -[3370.12 --> 3371.48] with care and gentleness, -[3371.78 --> 3373.36] it's all good on paper, -[3373.50 --> 3374.86] but it's easier said than done. -[3376.00 --> 3377.58] How do you do that wisely? -[3377.58 --> 3380.08] Doesn't the Bible teach us -[3380.08 --> 3381.24] that we are all sinners? -[3382.38 --> 3383.26] What are we -[3383.26 --> 3384.52] to point our fingers -[3384.52 --> 3385.16] and say, -[3385.46 --> 3385.98] you're a sinner, -[3386.42 --> 3387.70] you need to fix your ways? -[3388.50 --> 3389.58] What gives us -[3389.58 --> 3390.52] that sort of authority -[3390.52 --> 3391.22] to do that? -[3395.52 --> 3397.00] But notice the heart -[3397.00 --> 3397.54] of it here. -[3398.56 --> 3400.18] What Jesus is teaching us -[3400.18 --> 3401.64] and also what Paul -[3401.64 --> 3403.00] teaching from -[3403.00 --> 3404.36] the teaching of Jesus is, -[3405.22 --> 3405.88] they're pointing -[3405.88 --> 3407.06] to the heart of the issue. -[3407.82 --> 3409.22] What I'm saying here is, -[3410.14 --> 3410.94] Jesus and Paul -[3410.94 --> 3411.78] points out -[3411.78 --> 3413.50] the unrepentant, -[3414.10 --> 3415.04] deliberate way -[3415.04 --> 3416.02] of living contrary -[3416.02 --> 3416.88] to God's Word. -[3417.54 --> 3417.96] Again, -[3418.22 --> 3419.22] not just a simple, -[3419.60 --> 3420.50] oh, you missed a Sunday, -[3420.96 --> 3421.44] oh, now -[3421.44 --> 3424.06] you're one step further -[3424.06 --> 3424.80] from entering -[3424.80 --> 3425.42] God's kingdom. -[3425.88 --> 3426.76] Or you prayed -[3426.76 --> 3428.06] five minutes less this week, -[3428.40 --> 3429.22] you sure you're okay? -[3430.18 --> 3432.30] Not these little things, -[3432.68 --> 3434.08] not these maybe mistakes -[3434.08 --> 3435.36] or patterns that we're -[3435.36 --> 3436.86] trying to grow into, -[3437.86 --> 3439.30] but deliberate patterns -[3439.30 --> 3440.78] that live contrary -[3440.78 --> 3441.96] to the way of God. -[3443.88 --> 3444.46] So again, -[3444.64 --> 3446.08] not the good fight -[3446.08 --> 3446.96] that we journey -[3446.96 --> 3448.58] and wrestle against. -[3448.92 --> 3450.32] Jesus is not talking -[3450.32 --> 3451.62] about a brother or sister -[3451.62 --> 3452.44] who is struggling -[3452.44 --> 3453.08] and wrestling -[3453.08 --> 3454.22] against the sin. -[3455.42 --> 3456.90] I know that I need to, -[3457.26 --> 3458.16] that I want -[3458.16 --> 3459.80] to read the Bible more. -[3460.10 --> 3461.10] I know I need -[3461.10 --> 3461.88] to pray more. -[3461.88 --> 3463.10] The Holy Spirit -[3463.10 --> 3464.16] is nudging me -[3464.16 --> 3466.26] to go and talk -[3466.26 --> 3467.22] to that lonely -[3467.22 --> 3468.00] brother or sister -[3468.00 --> 3468.56] in the church. -[3468.98 --> 3469.82] The Holy Spirit -[3469.82 --> 3470.66] is nudging me -[3470.66 --> 3471.70] to invite more people -[3471.70 --> 3473.46] and share in that hospitality -[3473.46 --> 3474.46] to be witnesses -[3474.46 --> 3475.04] for the world -[3475.04 --> 3475.72] in my neighborhood. -[3476.84 --> 3477.78] But what Jesus -[3477.78 --> 3478.54] is talking about -[3478.54 --> 3479.12] is not that. -[3479.26 --> 3480.00] He's not talking -[3480.00 --> 3481.26] about that struggle -[3481.26 --> 3482.00] or that fight -[3482.00 --> 3482.66] that we have. -[3483.74 --> 3484.64] He's talking about, -[3484.74 --> 3484.88] again, -[3484.94 --> 3486.10] a deliberate pattern -[3486.10 --> 3486.68] of life -[3486.68 --> 3489.16] against the way -[3489.16 --> 3489.64] of God. -[3491.68 --> 3492.48] The attitude -[3492.48 --> 3494.30] of self-righteousness, -[3494.74 --> 3495.72] I don't need change. -[3496.30 --> 3497.40] I don't need forgiveness. -[3497.64 --> 3498.76] I got it all figured out. -[3500.18 --> 3501.90] A sort of prideful attitude. -[3502.32 --> 3503.46] And against this pattern -[3503.46 --> 3504.62] or lifestyle of sin, -[3504.80 --> 3505.40] we are called -[3505.40 --> 3506.58] to seek reconciliation -[3506.58 --> 3508.24] and directly confront. -[3508.60 --> 3509.80] Because as Jesus says, -[3510.08 --> 3511.36] if they listen to you, -[3512.18 --> 3512.86] in other words, -[3512.90 --> 3513.72] if they repent, -[3514.30 --> 3515.86] you have won them over. -[3516.38 --> 3517.74] Notice the language here. -[3517.74 --> 3519.56] You have won them over. -[3520.66 --> 3522.36] You have to be reminded here -[3522.36 --> 3523.10] of this language -[3523.10 --> 3524.20] of the prodigal son. -[3525.30 --> 3526.66] You have won that one -[3526.66 --> 3527.80] back into the family. -[3527.94 --> 3528.80] And what a joy -[3528.80 --> 3529.78] when that happens. -[3530.28 --> 3530.92] Like the way -[3530.92 --> 3532.64] the father celebrates -[3532.64 --> 3533.76] when the prodigal son -[3533.76 --> 3534.40] comes back -[3534.40 --> 3535.86] and he's won over -[3535.86 --> 3536.90] back into the family -[3536.90 --> 3537.52] through repentance. -[3537.96 --> 3538.78] They celebrate -[3538.78 --> 3540.16] because there is power -[3540.16 --> 3540.96] and joy -[3540.96 --> 3541.56] in forgiveness -[3541.56 --> 3542.38] and reconciliation. -[3544.70 --> 3545.50] And so, -[3545.62 --> 3546.82] with this prayerful goal -[3546.82 --> 3547.76] of reconciliation, -[3548.36 --> 3549.18] we are commanded -[3549.18 --> 3549.80] to confront -[3549.80 --> 3550.86] these sorts of patterns -[3550.86 --> 3553.28] with scrupulous care. -[3554.36 --> 3555.50] That's the important part. -[3556.74 --> 3557.28] Jesus says, -[3557.48 --> 3558.46] go and point out the sin, -[3559.04 --> 3560.08] just the two of you. -[3561.10 --> 3562.12] Just the two of you. -[3562.46 --> 3563.42] Don't brush it off. -[3563.68 --> 3564.56] Don't ignore it. -[3564.78 --> 3565.50] Go and confront -[3565.50 --> 3566.38] the wrongdoing, -[3566.50 --> 3567.12] the pattern -[3567.12 --> 3568.00] and lifestyle -[3568.00 --> 3568.82] that is living -[3568.82 --> 3570.02] contrary to God's word, -[3570.16 --> 3571.72] but do it privately. -[3572.52 --> 3573.64] That's the starting point. -[3573.64 --> 3576.42] If they don't listen -[3576.42 --> 3576.92] and repent, -[3577.12 --> 3578.08] you bring in -[3578.08 --> 3579.00] two or three witnesses. -[3579.44 --> 3580.28] And if that's still -[3580.28 --> 3580.84] not enough, -[3581.22 --> 3582.04] then tell it -[3582.04 --> 3583.54] to the whole church community. -[3584.82 --> 3586.70] It's a step-by-step process -[3586.70 --> 3587.50] that reflects -[3587.50 --> 3589.72] loving patience. -[3590.46 --> 3591.50] It is instructing -[3591.50 --> 3592.20] the church -[3592.20 --> 3593.28] to try and exhaust -[3593.28 --> 3594.12] all means -[3594.12 --> 3594.98] to win back -[3594.98 --> 3595.92] a lost brother -[3595.92 --> 3596.46] or sister. -[3596.96 --> 3598.16] Because if you think of it, -[3598.30 --> 3599.00] if a private, -[3599.26 --> 3600.12] caring conversation -[3600.12 --> 3601.00] can't help, -[3601.00 --> 3602.48] and then a small -[3602.48 --> 3603.18] intimate group -[3603.18 --> 3604.16] also doesn't help, -[3604.38 --> 3605.64] and it gets as serious -[3605.64 --> 3606.40] as involving -[3606.40 --> 3607.66] the wider church community, -[3608.08 --> 3609.62] then now the whole community -[3609.62 --> 3610.70] feels that weight -[3610.70 --> 3612.06] and everyone now -[3612.06 --> 3612.94] experiences -[3612.94 --> 3614.16] the gravity of sin. -[3616.54 --> 3618.24] That's Jesus' teaching, -[3618.36 --> 3620.12] a step-by-step process, -[3620.32 --> 3622.20] process of gentleness -[3622.20 --> 3622.82] and care -[3622.82 --> 3623.52] to bring back -[3623.52 --> 3624.54] a lost brother -[3624.54 --> 3625.02] or sister. -[3625.96 --> 3626.82] And at our church, -[3626.86 --> 3628.36] when we do baptisms, -[3628.52 --> 3630.00] we usually like to say -[3630.00 --> 3630.68] something like this. -[3630.68 --> 3631.90] It takes a village -[3631.90 --> 3633.02] to raise a child. -[3633.68 --> 3633.86] Right? -[3633.92 --> 3634.76] It's a common saying, -[3635.10 --> 3636.02] and we really like it. -[3636.18 --> 3637.04] Meaning that -[3637.04 --> 3638.14] the church -[3638.14 --> 3639.36] is our witnesses, -[3639.62 --> 3640.10] and you guys -[3640.10 --> 3640.60] are part -[3640.60 --> 3641.40] of the growth -[3641.40 --> 3642.30] of this baby -[3642.30 --> 3643.00] that we are now -[3643.00 --> 3643.58] dedicating -[3643.58 --> 3644.42] and baptizing -[3644.42 --> 3646.26] into the family of God. -[3646.80 --> 3648.40] And the same idea -[3648.40 --> 3649.58] is reflected here. -[3650.62 --> 3651.88] Sometimes it takes -[3651.88 --> 3653.26] the whole church community -[3653.26 --> 3654.72] to bring back -[3654.72 --> 3655.52] a lost brother -[3655.52 --> 3656.08] or sister. -[3657.68 --> 3658.92] And to not sound -[3658.92 --> 3659.96] too nerdy here, -[3659.96 --> 3660.78] but because -[3660.78 --> 3661.68] I'm fresh off -[3661.68 --> 3663.38] of being educated -[3663.38 --> 3663.92] and trained -[3663.92 --> 3664.86] in our denomination -[3664.86 --> 3665.56] to be ordained, -[3665.68 --> 3666.44] which only happened, -[3666.84 --> 3667.34] I want to say, -[3667.78 --> 3669.46] seven, eight months ago. -[3670.42 --> 3671.32] A little less than that. -[3671.60 --> 3671.94] Anyways, -[3672.14 --> 3672.96] I had to study -[3672.96 --> 3674.68] our denomination's policy, -[3675.34 --> 3675.82] which is not -[3675.82 --> 3677.06] the most entertaining thing. -[3677.44 --> 3678.14] But I wanted -[3678.14 --> 3678.86] to quote one thing -[3678.86 --> 3679.62] because it reflects -[3679.62 --> 3681.12] exactly the teaching -[3681.12 --> 3681.90] of Jesus here. -[3682.42 --> 3684.00] In our denomination's polity, -[3684.38 --> 3685.22] article 79, -[3685.40 --> 3686.04] it says this, -[3686.22 --> 3686.76] and you'll see it -[3686.76 --> 3687.24] on the screen. -[3687.24 --> 3689.68] The members of the church -[3689.68 --> 3690.36] are accountable -[3690.36 --> 3691.16] to one another -[3691.16 --> 3691.98] in their doctrine -[3691.98 --> 3692.56] and life -[3692.56 --> 3693.86] and have the responsibility -[3693.86 --> 3695.00] to encourage -[3695.00 --> 3696.22] and admonish one another -[3696.22 --> 3696.86] in love. -[3698.06 --> 3698.96] The consistory, -[3699.18 --> 3699.84] I don't know -[3699.84 --> 3701.00] if this is common language here, -[3701.28 --> 3702.26] that's just fancy word -[3702.26 --> 3703.10] for the deacons -[3703.10 --> 3703.54] and elders, -[3703.68 --> 3704.62] the leaders of the church, -[3705.40 --> 3706.12] shall instruct -[3706.12 --> 3707.12] and remind the members -[3707.12 --> 3707.70] of the church -[3707.70 --> 3708.62] of their responsibility -[3708.62 --> 3710.40] and foster a spirit -[3710.40 --> 3710.98] of love -[3710.98 --> 3711.62] and openness -[3711.62 --> 3712.62] within the fellowship, -[3712.62 --> 3715.00] so that erring members, -[3715.28 --> 3716.78] so that sinning members -[3716.78 --> 3717.72] may be led -[3717.72 --> 3718.38] to repentance -[3718.38 --> 3719.42] and reconciliation. -[3721.70 --> 3723.24] Exactly Jesus' teaching -[3723.24 --> 3724.18] reflected in our -[3724.18 --> 3725.30] denomination's policy, -[3725.86 --> 3726.22] polity. -[3727.92 --> 3729.48] Yes, our Christian calling -[3729.48 --> 3731.80] is to strive for shalom, -[3732.54 --> 3732.72] right? -[3732.80 --> 3733.88] This picture of harmony, -[3734.34 --> 3734.88] reconciliation. -[3736.14 --> 3737.06] But do you know -[3737.06 --> 3738.04] what the sobering part -[3738.04 --> 3739.22] of Jesus' teaching -[3739.22 --> 3740.10] this morning is? -[3740.96 --> 3741.96] The reality of it, -[3742.40 --> 3742.94] as I said, -[3743.34 --> 3744.50] Jesus and Paul actually, -[3744.84 --> 3745.92] they don't ignore the fact -[3745.92 --> 3746.96] that we're a broken people. -[3748.18 --> 3749.46] Near the end of the passage -[3749.46 --> 3750.12] that we read, -[3750.40 --> 3751.66] Jesus actually says -[3751.66 --> 3753.70] that when this reconciliation -[3753.70 --> 3755.04] is not possible, -[3755.72 --> 3756.86] even when you bring in -[3756.86 --> 3757.98] the whole church community -[3757.98 --> 3758.68] and reconciliation -[3758.68 --> 3759.72] isn't possible, -[3760.60 --> 3761.50] then that relationship -[3761.50 --> 3762.62] has to be cut off. -[3763.66 --> 3765.70] And that's the sobering reality -[3765.70 --> 3766.58] in our broken world, -[3766.70 --> 3767.00] isn't it? -[3768.02 --> 3769.64] That's all the more reason -[3769.64 --> 3770.96] we need the Spirit's guidance -[3770.96 --> 3772.38] and to not depend -[3772.38 --> 3773.44] on our own wisdom -[3773.44 --> 3774.30] and strength. -[3777.72 --> 3778.76] Because the church -[3778.76 --> 3779.78] as a body of believers -[3779.78 --> 3780.66] has authority. -[3781.42 --> 3782.34] This authority comes -[3782.34 --> 3783.34] from Jesus himself. -[3783.68 --> 3784.84] He says in verse 18, -[3785.18 --> 3786.22] whatever you bind, -[3786.32 --> 3787.78] this is not a singular you, -[3787.88 --> 3788.32] by the way, -[3788.68 --> 3789.60] whatever the church, -[3789.72 --> 3790.42] you plural, -[3790.86 --> 3792.12] bind or loose in heaven -[3792.12 --> 3792.88] will be bound -[3792.88 --> 3794.14] and loosed on earth -[3794.14 --> 3794.84] here as well. -[3795.02 --> 3796.24] That's the sort of authority -[3796.24 --> 3797.96] that Jesus entrusts -[3797.96 --> 3799.54] his body with. -[3801.46 --> 3802.80] But I don't know about you, -[3803.24 --> 3804.70] but when I was reading this -[3804.70 --> 3806.22] and when I was wrestling with it, -[3806.56 --> 3807.62] I sort of cringed. -[3808.06 --> 3809.54] Because as soon as I hear -[3809.54 --> 3810.12] the phrase, -[3810.24 --> 3811.36] authority of the church, -[3811.92 --> 3813.46] I go back to my -[3813.46 --> 3814.76] kind of younger days, -[3815.14 --> 3816.74] having heard of all the conflict -[3816.74 --> 3817.50] that was happening, -[3817.78 --> 3819.02] that has been happening -[3819.02 --> 3820.06] in the church, -[3820.30 --> 3821.50] the wider church community. -[3821.50 --> 3823.00] You know, -[3823.10 --> 3825.12] like I've heard horror stories -[3825.12 --> 3826.68] within church communities -[3826.68 --> 3828.44] of some infamous cases, -[3828.60 --> 3830.02] not everything's like this, -[3830.08 --> 3830.74] and I don't want to paint -[3830.74 --> 3832.28] such a negative picture -[3832.28 --> 3833.42] of like the Korean church, -[3833.82 --> 3835.50] but in some infamous cases, -[3836.72 --> 3837.72] a pastor would like -[3837.72 --> 3839.14] abuse the pulpit here -[3839.14 --> 3840.42] to voice their own -[3840.42 --> 3841.52] personal rebuke -[3841.52 --> 3843.64] against certain individuals -[3843.64 --> 3844.34] or groups. -[3845.64 --> 3847.06] How do you think that went? -[3847.06 --> 3850.44] That would lead to people -[3850.44 --> 3852.16] shouting and screaming -[3852.16 --> 3852.90] at the pastor -[3852.90 --> 3853.84] even in the middle -[3853.84 --> 3854.34] of a sermon. -[3855.72 --> 3857.28] Don't get any ideas now. -[3857.54 --> 3858.32] Like, I don't want to -[3858.32 --> 3859.52] give you guys any ideas -[3859.52 --> 3860.60] to try it out -[3860.60 --> 3861.58] with Pastor Chris -[3861.58 --> 3862.42] or Kevin or anything, -[3862.70 --> 3865.02] but like think of -[3865.02 --> 3866.98] and picture a heated debate -[3866.98 --> 3868.02] in the House of Commons. -[3868.58 --> 3868.68] Right? -[3868.72 --> 3869.56] That's sort of the picture -[3869.56 --> 3870.68] that I grew up with -[3870.68 --> 3872.36] because the authority -[3872.36 --> 3873.02] of the church -[3873.02 --> 3874.12] or authority of a pastor -[3874.12 --> 3874.64] or a leader -[3874.64 --> 3876.18] has been abused. -[3877.06 --> 3878.20] And I think we live -[3878.20 --> 3878.84] in a generation -[3878.84 --> 3880.82] that's kind of reacting -[3880.82 --> 3881.56] against that. -[3883.10 --> 3885.80] But that's exactly why -[3885.80 --> 3888.18] Paul, from Jesus' teaching, -[3888.94 --> 3891.44] says you have to confront -[3891.44 --> 3892.50] a brother or sister -[3892.50 --> 3893.64] with what? -[3894.62 --> 3895.96] With gentleness, -[3896.44 --> 3898.14] with a spirit of gentleness. -[3899.74 --> 3900.66] He says, -[3900.94 --> 3902.38] be careful in your rebuke -[3902.38 --> 3903.40] of sins in the church -[3903.40 --> 3904.92] for fellow brothers and sisters -[3904.92 --> 3907.12] because in that rebuke, -[3907.42 --> 3909.02] you also may be tempted -[3909.02 --> 3909.62] to sin. -[3912.56 --> 3913.64] Is it just me -[3913.64 --> 3914.78] or do you relate -[3914.78 --> 3917.56] that when you get angry, -[3917.94 --> 3919.34] and sometimes rightly so, -[3919.84 --> 3921.10] anger in itself -[3921.10 --> 3921.96] is not a sin. -[3923.22 --> 3924.28] There is such a thing -[3924.28 --> 3925.40] called righteous anger. -[3925.74 --> 3927.04] And against injustice -[3927.04 --> 3928.30] and sin that is happening, -[3928.38 --> 3929.18] we should be angry. -[3929.52 --> 3930.92] We should share in God's heart -[3930.92 --> 3931.82] and mourn -[3931.82 --> 3932.56] and be angry -[3932.56 --> 3933.02] and passionate -[3933.02 --> 3934.44] against the sin -[3934.44 --> 3935.04] and injustice -[3935.04 --> 3935.76] and the brokenness -[3935.76 --> 3936.28] of the world. -[3936.84 --> 3939.08] But in that anger, -[3939.18 --> 3940.48] it is so easy -[3940.48 --> 3941.46] to go across -[3941.46 --> 3942.46] that borderline -[3942.46 --> 3944.58] and sin in that anger -[3944.58 --> 3945.06] as well -[3945.06 --> 3946.14] and say things -[3946.14 --> 3946.64] that maybe -[3946.64 --> 3947.56] we shouldn't have said. -[3948.74 --> 3949.90] That's the warning -[3949.90 --> 3951.34] that Jesus and Paul -[3951.34 --> 3952.44] is teaching us with. -[3953.38 --> 3955.38] In that confrontation, -[3956.04 --> 3956.92] in that careful -[3957.50 --> 3959.14] pointing out of sin, -[3959.14 --> 3960.58] be careful -[3960.58 --> 3961.34] because you might -[3961.34 --> 3962.34] be tempted as well. -[3964.40 --> 3965.36] This is what -[3965.36 --> 3967.10] an early church father said -[3967.10 --> 3968.16] on this point. -[3968.26 --> 3969.10] He says it so well. -[3969.34 --> 3969.74] He said, -[3970.68 --> 3971.24] So then, -[3971.36 --> 3973.16] be neither consenting -[3973.16 --> 3973.74] to evil -[3973.74 --> 3975.28] so as to approve it, -[3975.68 --> 3976.88] nor negligent -[3976.88 --> 3978.74] so as not to reprove it, -[3979.04 --> 3980.10] nor proud -[3980.10 --> 3981.42] so as to reprove it -[3981.42 --> 3982.92] in a tone of insult. -[3984.84 --> 3986.30] This we're talking like -[3986.30 --> 3987.22] way back -[3987.22 --> 3988.30] in early church days. -[3988.30 --> 3989.66] Same struggle, -[3990.20 --> 3991.16] same fight, -[3991.98 --> 3993.30] same seeking forgiveness -[3993.30 --> 3994.14] and living out -[3994.14 --> 3995.04] this Christian identity -[3995.04 --> 3996.28] of shalom -[3996.28 --> 3997.42] and seeking reconciliation -[3997.42 --> 3999.74] because this is hard work. -[4001.32 --> 4002.88] It's much easier -[4002.88 --> 4004.08] to avoid accountability -[4004.08 --> 4005.24] and to avoid -[4005.24 --> 4006.46] reproving somebody's -[4006.46 --> 4007.22] unhealthy patterns. -[4007.70 --> 4008.62] It's much easier -[4008.62 --> 4009.50] to just let them be. -[4010.14 --> 4010.88] That's your life. -[4011.68 --> 4012.40] And think about it. -[4012.80 --> 4013.48] Our culture -[4013.48 --> 4014.18] that we live in, -[4014.36 --> 4016.46] in a very hyper-individualistic culture, -[4016.46 --> 4018.20] that's what's reflected anyways. -[4018.66 --> 4019.34] You do you. -[4019.60 --> 4020.66] You do whatever you want. -[4020.92 --> 4022.42] Just follow your heart. -[4022.82 --> 4023.38] Doesn't matter -[4023.38 --> 4026.58] what the word of God says. -[4027.00 --> 4028.30] Just you do you. -[4028.48 --> 4029.26] That's fine. -[4030.40 --> 4031.34] That's the culture -[4031.34 --> 4032.06] we live in. -[4032.44 --> 4033.36] That's why this is -[4033.36 --> 4034.50] so much more difficult. -[4034.50 --> 4037.26] You don't need me -[4037.26 --> 4038.28] to point out your faults, -[4038.42 --> 4039.20] speak into your life, -[4039.30 --> 4040.98] journey toward growth together. -[4041.28 --> 4042.16] That's the message -[4042.16 --> 4042.82] of the culture. -[4043.10 --> 4043.74] And we all say -[4043.74 --> 4044.98] that's way too much work. -[4045.36 --> 4046.30] Well, just pay the pastors -[4046.30 --> 4047.06] to do that. -[4048.12 --> 4048.56] Sure, -[4048.70 --> 4049.90] it is the job of a pastor. -[4050.90 --> 4052.22] But Paul and Jesus -[4052.22 --> 4053.00] is not writing -[4053.00 --> 4053.90] to one individual, -[4054.16 --> 4055.48] one individual leader -[4055.48 --> 4056.12] in the church. -[4056.24 --> 4056.84] He's writing -[4056.84 --> 4057.96] to the whole church -[4057.96 --> 4059.18] as a body of believers. -[4059.68 --> 4060.42] He, Paul says, -[4060.56 --> 4062.08] carry each other's burdens, -[4062.08 --> 4063.00] not pastor, -[4063.18 --> 4064.14] carry everyone's burdens, -[4064.54 --> 4065.34] point out their faults, -[4065.76 --> 4066.38] journey with them -[4066.38 --> 4067.14] toward growth. -[4067.62 --> 4069.94] This is our identity together -[4069.94 --> 4071.32] as Christians. -[4075.04 --> 4076.16] Dale Bruner, -[4076.26 --> 4076.98] a commentator, -[4077.34 --> 4077.78] he says, -[4078.26 --> 4079.72] real lovelessness, -[4080.38 --> 4081.14] wrong judging, -[4081.58 --> 4082.30] is to drop -[4082.30 --> 4083.46] another person altogether -[4083.46 --> 4084.62] without any attempt -[4084.62 --> 4085.98] at seeking conversations, -[4086.32 --> 4086.68] repentance, -[4086.84 --> 4088.04] or reconciliation at all. -[4088.70 --> 4089.54] But in Jesus' -[4089.78 --> 4091.36] radical teaching of grace, -[4091.36 --> 4092.52] the sinner -[4092.52 --> 4093.66] is taken seriously -[4093.66 --> 4094.38] as a person -[4094.38 --> 4095.10] and is treated -[4095.10 --> 4096.46] as the sequence shows -[4096.46 --> 4097.22] in Matthew 18 -[4097.22 --> 4098.56] with an impressive -[4098.56 --> 4100.04] carefulness. -[4102.02 --> 4103.24] Because in this way, -[4103.38 --> 4103.90] we embody -[4103.90 --> 4105.42] a lifestyle of forgiveness, -[4105.80 --> 4106.54] a way of life -[4106.54 --> 4107.62] that is spirit-led. -[4108.10 --> 4108.78] And when the church -[4108.78 --> 4110.06] disciplines Christians, -[4110.54 --> 4111.42] the church will be -[4111.42 --> 4112.42] more effectively -[4112.42 --> 4113.86] be able to disciple -[4113.86 --> 4115.10] non-Christians. -[4115.54 --> 4116.34] We are witnesses -[4116.34 --> 4117.40] and a glimpse -[4117.40 --> 4118.52] of God's kingdom -[4118.52 --> 4120.30] seeking shalom -[4120.30 --> 4121.88] through a humble, -[4122.12 --> 4123.00] gentle posture -[4123.00 --> 4125.12] of seeking that healing -[4125.12 --> 4125.68] and forgiveness -[4125.68 --> 4126.96] and bearing one another's -[4126.96 --> 4127.78] burdens -[4127.78 --> 4129.74] so that we may grow together. -[4130.18 --> 4131.64] And so that is the invitation -[4131.64 --> 4132.50] for us this morning -[4132.50 --> 4134.36] and maybe for this summer season. -[4135.14 --> 4136.30] Who is someone -[4136.30 --> 4137.96] you care enough about -[4137.96 --> 4139.62] to hold accountable, -[4140.40 --> 4141.92] to name and seek -[4141.92 --> 4143.12] reconciliation with? -[4143.12 --> 4145.34] Who comes to mind -[4145.34 --> 4145.74] for you -[4145.74 --> 4146.40] when this question -[4146.40 --> 4146.92] is asked? -[4148.58 --> 4149.52] And the warning again -[4149.52 --> 4150.90] is to be careful -[4150.90 --> 4151.60] not to sin -[4151.60 --> 4152.76] and fall into temptation, -[4153.24 --> 4154.54] to just hold a grudge -[4154.54 --> 4155.78] or gossip about them. -[4156.72 --> 4157.22] Instead, -[4157.60 --> 4158.62] one step at a time, -[4159.12 --> 4159.80] can you just go -[4159.80 --> 4160.82] grab a coffee with them? -[4162.72 --> 4164.08] Because the good news, -[4164.20 --> 4164.46] again, -[4164.58 --> 4165.56] is that the foundation -[4165.56 --> 4167.08] of where we lean on -[4167.08 --> 4168.32] is that we journey -[4168.32 --> 4169.44] through all of this -[4169.44 --> 4170.20] hard work -[4170.20 --> 4171.30] of seeking reconciliation -[4171.30 --> 4173.46] with the ultimate hope -[4173.46 --> 4174.40] in the forgiver -[4174.40 --> 4175.78] of all of our sins. -[4176.12 --> 4176.90] That's where -[4176.90 --> 4178.24] our foundation lies. -[4180.28 --> 4180.64] Jesus, -[4181.02 --> 4181.94] He is the one -[4181.94 --> 4182.92] who is with us, -[4183.28 --> 4184.54] dwells within us, -[4184.60 --> 4185.58] and empowers us -[4185.58 --> 4186.28] through His Spirit -[4186.28 --> 4188.32] to take those difficult steps -[4188.32 --> 4189.96] to live out our faith. -[4192.96 --> 4194.28] That is our calling. -[4195.42 --> 4197.20] That is our identity. -[4198.22 --> 4199.38] And it is a privilege -[4199.38 --> 4200.72] to live that out together -[4200.72 --> 4202.38] as the body of Christ here. -[4203.08 --> 4204.00] This is my blessing -[4204.00 --> 4205.14] for Emmanuel -[4205.14 --> 4205.88] as we enter -[4205.88 --> 4207.06] into these summer months -[4207.06 --> 4209.30] to seek shalom, -[4209.88 --> 4211.74] to reflect God's kingdom -[4211.74 --> 4212.50] here on earth. -[4213.58 --> 4214.30] Let's pray. -[4221.38 --> 4222.12] Father God, -[4222.18 --> 4222.94] we come before you -[4222.94 --> 4223.52] this morning -[4223.52 --> 4225.48] in gratitude. -[4225.48 --> 4228.06] we thank you -[4228.06 --> 4229.64] for your forgiving heart -[4229.64 --> 4231.70] that although -[4231.70 --> 4233.06] we all fall short, -[4233.90 --> 4235.30] through your grace, -[4235.50 --> 4236.70] we may approach -[4236.70 --> 4237.82] your throne of grace, -[4238.64 --> 4240.44] that we are saved -[4240.44 --> 4241.80] through your grace. -[4243.12 --> 4244.06] We thank you -[4244.06 --> 4245.06] for this good news. -[4245.42 --> 4246.14] We thank you -[4246.14 --> 4247.04] for granting us -[4247.04 --> 4247.66] that forgiveness. -[4248.24 --> 4248.70] And Lord, -[4249.02 --> 4250.18] we pray that you -[4250.18 --> 4250.98] would guide us -[4250.98 --> 4253.20] and you would empower us -[4253.20 --> 4254.82] to do this hard work -[4254.82 --> 4255.46] of reflecting -[4255.46 --> 4257.38] our Christian identities -[4257.38 --> 4258.48] to forgive -[4258.48 --> 4259.22] as those -[4259.22 --> 4260.10] who have been forgiven. -[4261.46 --> 4262.62] I pray for -[4262.62 --> 4263.60] our relationships, -[4264.44 --> 4265.26] relationships -[4265.26 --> 4266.38] with one another -[4266.38 --> 4267.32] within the church, -[4267.84 --> 4268.82] relationship with you, -[4269.60 --> 4270.42] relationship with -[4270.42 --> 4271.32] ourselves, -[4271.94 --> 4273.92] that we may be able -[4273.92 --> 4274.44] to forgive -[4274.44 --> 4275.70] and seek reconciliation -[4275.70 --> 4276.64] and shalom. -[4278.06 --> 4278.28] Lord, -[4278.32 --> 4278.74] guide us -[4278.74 --> 4279.54] through your spirit -[4279.54 --> 4281.04] that we may glimpse -[4281.04 --> 4281.72] a little bit -[4281.72 --> 4282.64] of what your kingdom -[4282.64 --> 4283.18] is like -[4283.18 --> 4284.40] here on earth -[4284.40 --> 4285.20] as it is in heaven. -[4286.24 --> 4287.48] May we be empowered -[4287.48 --> 4288.36] to be witnesses -[4288.36 --> 4290.00] for those around us, -[4290.12 --> 4291.04] for our communities, -[4292.04 --> 4294.08] that we may be light -[4294.08 --> 4295.64] that shines brightly -[4295.64 --> 4296.26] in the darkness, -[4296.90 --> 4297.84] that we may reflect -[4297.84 --> 4299.42] your loving goodness -[4299.42 --> 4300.00] for the world. -[4301.30 --> 4301.86] We thank you -[4301.86 --> 4302.78] for this good news -[4302.78 --> 4303.60] and in Jesus' name -[4303.60 --> 4303.98] we pray. -[4304.98 --> 4305.28] Amen. -[4309.54 --> 4328.58] Great is your faithfulness, -[4328.58 --> 4329.80] O God. -[4332.74 --> 4337.08] You wrestle with the sinner's -[4337.08 --> 4338.74] restless heart. -[4338.74 --> 4344.56] beauty as my still water -[4344.56 --> 4346.74] brings into mercy -[4346.74 --> 4353.70] when nothing can keep us apart. -[4355.76 --> 4359.82] So remember your people, -[4359.82 --> 4363.72] remember your children, -[4363.72 --> 4367.94] remember your promise, -[4368.18 --> 4369.54] O God. -[4371.54 --> 4374.72] Your grace is enough, -[4374.72 --> 4378.72] Your grace is enough, -[4378.72 --> 4384.72] Your grace is enough for me. -[4384.72 --> 4391.72] You lead us in the song of your salvation, -[4391.72 --> 4398.62] You lead us in the song of your salvation, -[4398.62 --> 4400.30] the strong -[4400.30 --> 4406.52] You lead us in the song -[4406.52 --> 4408.54] of your salvation -[4408.54 --> 4413.38] And all your people -[4413.38 --> 4415.60] sing along -[4415.60 --> 4419.46] So remember -[4419.46 --> 4421.46] your people -[4421.46 --> 4425.38] Remember your children -[4425.38 --> 4429.52] Remember your promise -[4429.52 --> 4431.14] O God -[4431.14 --> 4436.68] Your grace is enough -[4436.68 --> 4440.46] Your grace is enough -[4440.46 --> 4444.22] Your grace is enough -[4444.22 --> 4446.40] for me -[4446.40 --> 4451.92] Your grace is enough -[4451.92 --> 4455.76] Heaven reaches out to us -[4455.76 --> 4459.46] Your grace is enough -[4459.46 --> 4461.62] for me -[4461.62 --> 4467.04] Your grace is enough -[4467.04 --> 4470.82] I'm covering your love -[4470.82 --> 4474.62] Your grace is enough -[4474.62 --> 4476.84] for me -[4476.84 --> 4493.00] Amen -[4493.00 --> 4496.90] So receive this parting blessing -[4496.90 --> 4500.28] May the grace of the Lord -[4500.28 --> 4501.26] Jesus Christ -[4501.26 --> 4502.76] and the love of God -[4502.76 --> 4503.70] and the fellowship -[4503.70 --> 4504.78] of the Holy Spirit -[4504.78 --> 4506.04] be with you all -[4506.04 --> 4506.90] as we continue -[4506.90 --> 4507.68] to live out -[4507.68 --> 4508.40] our identity -[4508.40 --> 4510.02] as people of God -[4510.02 --> 4511.86] people who seek shalom -[4511.86 --> 4513.50] All God's people said -[4513.50 --> 4514.82] Amen -[4514.82 --> 4534.40] As you go -[4534.40 --> 4535.28] may you know -[4535.28 --> 4536.58] the love of Christ -[4536.58 --> 4538.72] How do you walk -[4538.72 --> 4540.70] how high and wide -[4540.70 --> 4543.02] As you need -[4543.02 --> 4543.84] may you see -[4543.84 --> 4545.14] in Christ -[4545.14 --> 4547.30] And find His death -[4547.30 --> 4550.00] to be your life -[4550.00 --> 4551.62] May you go -[4551.62 --> 4552.70] in the love -[4552.70 --> 4554.46] of your Father God -[4554.46 --> 4555.82] May you go -[4555.82 --> 4557.84] in the grace of Christ -[4557.84 --> 4560.08] May you go -[4560.08 --> 4561.10] in the power -[4561.10 --> 4562.96] of the Spirit now -[4562.96 --> 4592.94] May you go -[4592.94 --> 4593.68] May you go -[4593.68 --> 4594.70] in the power -[4594.70 --> 4596.52] of the Spirit now -[4596.52 --> 4598.08] To bring you glory -[4598.08 --> 4600.10] with your love -[4600.10 --> 4602.00] As you go -[4602.00 --> 4602.86] may you show -[4602.86 --> 4604.10] His heart to bless -[4604.10 --> 4606.34] No one to bless -[4606.34 --> 4608.24] with blind and lost -[4608.24 --> 4610.42] As you need -[4610.42 --> 4611.18] may you be -[4611.18 --> 4612.44] in the light of Christ -[4612.44 --> 4614.66] And show our hope -[4614.66 --> 4617.64] is in the cross -[4617.64 --> 4618.82] May you go -[4618.82 --> 4619.82] in love -[4619.82 --> 4621.62] of your Father God -[4621.62 --> 4622.96] May you go -[4622.96 --> 4624.96] with the grace of Christ -[4624.96 --> 4626.96] May you go -[4626.96 --> 4628.06] in the power -[4628.06 --> 4629.80] of the Spirit now -[4629.80 --> 4631.42] To bring you glory -[4631.42 --> 4633.08] with your life -[4633.08 --> 4635.32] May you go -[4635.32 --> 4636.30] in love -[4636.30 --> 4638.14] of your Father God -[4638.14 --> 4639.50] May you go -[4639.50 --> 4641.46] in the grace of Christ -[4641.46 --> 4643.72] May you go -[4643.72 --> 4672.94] May you go -[4673.72 --> 4703.70] Thank you. -[4703.72 --> 4733.70] Thank you. -[4733.72 --> 4763.70] Thank you. -[4763.72 --> 4793.70] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, June 16, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, June 16, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 43b403f3b82b35b792158a2553804c8a8877966b..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, June 16, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,87 +0,0 @@ -• Making diamonds out of dust -• Being accepted and loved for who you are, not who you ought to be -• Feeling guilty and ashamed, but being forgiven and set free -• God's love making us more than enough and giving us a reason to sing -• Living like we're loved, valued, and free in God's grace -• Miracles and God's power -• Struggling with feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt -• Receiving love and strength from God despite difficult circumstances -• Celebrating Father's Day, acknowledging both joy and difficulty in relationships with fathers and children -• Announcements about church events and Pastor Chris's absence at Synod -• Baby Bottle Campaign: returns due by the end of the service -• Food Bank Drive: July 7th collection, July 13th return and community event -• Congregational meeting and barbecue: next Sunday -• Children's Worship Time volunteers needed for summer schedule -• Seeking coordinator to replace Amy, who is stepping down in September -• God's greeting from Revelation chapter 1 -• Praise and worship of Jesus Christ as the faithful witness and ruler of the kings of the earth -• Psalm-like declaration of dependence on God, comparing Him to a rock and salvation -• Turning to God in times of need, finding strength and hope -• Praises to God for salvation and His sovereignty -• Confession of sin and seeking forgiveness -• Discussion of 1 Peter 2 regarding various sins and growth in salvation -• The concept of being living stones chosen by God and built into a spiritual house -• Quotes from Scripture referencing the stone in Zion and its significance to believers -• Prayers for purity and holiness, including requests to be cleansed from sin and made holy -• Discussion of holiness as a fire or light that makes one holy and perfect in heart -• Reference to the blood of Jesus and its role in making one holy and renewing them -• Explanation of World Renew's refugee sponsorship and resettlement efforts -• Call for giving to support these efforts and other church activities -• Discussion of God's righteousness as justification -• Explanation of what a hike is and the importance of staying on a path while hiking -• Analogy between Jesus being the path to follow in life and staying on a marked path during a hike -• Introduction to children's worship theme: following Jesus as our path -• Praying for blessings and thanksgiving -• Thanking God for the sun, rain, and abundant gifts -• Expressing gratitude for salvation through Jesus Christ -• Asking for strength, faith, health, and joy for dads on Father's Day -• Praying for those struggling with absence, loss, or strained relationships with their fathers -• Requesting comfort and peace for the DeGroote family -• Praying for healing and recovery for Faye Shonit and Kobe DeBorsap -• Thanking God for good news regarding Everly's health scans -• Asking for wisdom and guidance for doctors and medical professionals -• Praying for teachers, students, and upcoming Synod meetings in Grand Rapids, Michigan -• Requesting protection and blessings for the church family -• Discussion on deviating from a previous series on Romans due to schedule constraints -• Mention of lectionary guidelines for selecting Bible passages -• Explanation of Ezekiel chapter 17 as a passage that fits the theme of Father's Day, featuring eagles -• Reading and explanation of Ezekiel 17:1-24 as an allegory about the king of Babylon and his treaty with Jerusalem -• Interpretation of the passage as a warning against rebelling against God's plans and treaties -• The passage from Ezekiel is about God using Babylon as an instrument of judgment for Judah's sins -• Israel was split into two nations, Israel and Judah, around 330 years before the events described in Ezekiel -• Israel was destroyed by Assyria in 721 BC, while Judah was eventually conquered by Babylon in 597 BC and its people were taken captive to Babylon -• Ezekiel is a prophet who wrote his book during this time of exile, warning God's people that their punishment is part of God's plan -• The passage from Ezekiel includes a parable about a vine planted by an eagle, which grows towards another eagle but withers and dies because it looked away from its original roots -• The parable is meant to illustrate how Judah will be punished for looking away from God and towards other nations (represented by the second eagle) -• The two eagles represent Babylon and Egypt, with Jerusalem (Judah) being the vine they both seek to control -• The parable explains how Babylon took the topmost shoot of Jerusalem's cedar tree, representing King Zedekiah and Judah's nobles, bringing them back to Babylon as a puppet state -• The vine's growth is limited by its dependence on Babylon, and it withers when looking towards Egypt for help -• God warns through Ezekiel that attempting to rebel against Babylon or seeking help from Egypt will end in destruction -• The parable was likely written around 590 BC during the sixth year of Judah's exile in Babylon -• King Zedekiah, the puppet king of Judah, is warned that he will fail and be destroyed for breaking his treaty with Nebuchadnezzar and seeking help from Egypt. -• Zedekiah's disobedience and reliance on Egypt -• Babylonian siege of Jerusalem and its consequences -• God's plan to use Babylon as an instrument -• Promise of a new cedar, symbolizing Israel's restoration -• Tree and vine imagery in Scripture, including Jesus as the true vine -• Kingdom of God as branches or a tree -• Jesus' role in salvation and redemption -• The promise in Ezekiel 17 is fulfilled through Jesus' life, death, and resurrection -• Believers are already redeemed and do not need to fear judgment -• God's plan always plays out, but the context of Israel's exile does not apply to Christians -• Christians choose to live in "exile" from the world, remaining in Christ and bearing fruit for Him -• 1 Peter emphasizes that believers are called to live as exiles, abstaining from worldly desires and living good lives among non-believers -• The choice to be grafted into Jesus is a voluntary decision, rather than a punishment or judgment -• Jesus' life, death, and resurrection have changed everything -• God's plan to save and redeem creation has been played out through history -• Believers are saved and grafted into the vine, bearing fruit for Jesus' name -• Responding in obedience is essential as part of God's kingdom plan -• Sharing God's love with others through actions and words is crucial -• The promises of God's love and salvation should be remembered and relied upon -• Prayer partners and community outreach efforts are available. -• The lyrics of a song about the power and love of Christ -• God's power to overcome sin and death -• Salvation through faith in Christ -• Protection from hell and man's schemes -• The singer's gratitude for Christ's love and protection -• Repetition of thank you's at varying time stamps \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, June 16, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, June 16, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d9b9693c357692ae47eeac9fddd0a479ffdff3f7..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, June 16, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1055 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 5.00] Making diamonds out of dust -[5.00 --> 8.00] I won't be afraid to shine -[8.00 --> 13.00] I won't be afraid to shine -[13.00 --> 16.00] I won't be afraid to shine -[16.84 --> 21.32] Cause he's making diamonds out of dust -[21.32 --> 26.06] Making diamonds out of dust -[30.00 --> 35.00] Making diamonds out of dust -[35.00 --> 50.00] I want you as you are, not as you ought to be -[50.00 --> 55.00] Won't you lay down your guard and come to me -[55.00 --> 60.00] The shame that grips you now is crippling -[60.00 --> 66.00] It breaks my heart to see you suffering -[66.00 --> 69.00] Cause I am for you -[69.00 --> 73.00] I'm not against you -[73.00 --> 78.00] If you wanna know how far my love can go -[78.00 --> 82.00] Just how deep, just how wide -[82.00 --> 86.00] If you wanna see how much you mean to me -[86.00 --> 89.00] Look at my hands, look at my side -[89.00 --> 95.00] If you could count the times and say you are forgiven -[95.00 --> 99.00] It's more than the drops in the ocean -[106.00 --> 111.00] Don't think you need to settle for a substitute -[112.00 --> 116.00] When I'm the only love that changes you -[116.00 --> 117.00] And I am for you -[117.00 --> 118.00] And I am for you -[118.00 --> 119.00] And I am for you -[120.00 --> 122.00] I'm not against you -[123.00 --> 126.00] I am for you -[127.00 --> 129.00] I'm not against you -[129.00 --> 135.00] If you wanna know how far my love can go -[135.00 --> 137.00] Just how deep, just how wide -[137.00 --> 138.00] Just how wide -[138.00 --> 139.00] Just how wide -[139.00 --> 142.00] If you wanna see how much you mean to me -[142.00 --> 144.00] Look at my hands, look at my side -[144.00 --> 148.00] If you could count the times and say you are forgiven -[148.00 --> 150.00] It's more than the drops in the ocean -[150.00 --> 154.00] Drops in the ocean -[154.00 --> 158.00] Drops in the ocean -[158.00 --> 164.00] Open your heart -[164.00 --> 167.00] It's time that we start again -[167.00 --> 171.00] Open your heart -[171.00 --> 174.00] It's time that we start again -[174.00 --> 175.00] Open your heart -[175.00 --> 177.00] It's time that we start again -[178.00 --> 180.00] If you wanna know how far my love can go -[180.00 --> 184.00] Just how deep, just how wide -[184.00 --> 188.48] If you want to see how much you mean to me -[188.48 --> 191.78] Look at my hands, look at my side -[191.78 --> 197.48] If you could count the times that day you are forgiven -[197.48 --> 200.94] It's more than the drops in the ocean -[200.94 --> 208.32] The drops in the ocean -[214.00 --> 221.26] I am for you, I'm not against you -[221.26 --> 228.86] I am for you, I'm not against you -[244.00 --> 250.76] You're not the only one who feels like this -[250.76 --> 254.52] Feeling like you lose more than you win -[254.52 --> 258.64] Like life is just an endless hill you climb -[258.64 --> 263.02] You try and try, but never arrive -[263.02 --> 266.04] I'm telling you something -[266.04 --> 268.04] This racing, this running -[268.04 --> 270.78] Oh, you're working way too hard -[270.78 --> 274.02] And this perfection you're chasing -[274.02 --> 276.14] It's just energy wasted -[276.14 --> 278.82] Cause he loves you like you are -[278.82 --> 282.26] So go ahead and live like you're loved -[282.26 --> 286.84] It's okay to act like you've been set free -[286.84 --> 290.30] His love has made you more than enough -[290.30 --> 295.06] So go ahead and be who he made you to be -[295.06 --> 297.78] And live like you're loved -[297.78 --> 303.24] Live like you're loved -[303.24 --> 307.24] Live like you're loved -[307.24 --> 310.04] Live like you're loved -[310.04 --> 314.10] And live like you know you're valuable -[314.10 --> 318.60] Like you know the one that holds your soul -[318.60 --> 322.78] Cause mercy has called you by your name -[322.78 --> 327.08] Don't be afraid to live in that grace -[327.08 --> 330.02] Oh, I'm telling you something -[330.02 --> 332.24] This God we believe in -[332.24 --> 334.74] Yeah, he changed everything -[334.74 --> 337.88] No more guilt, no more shame -[337.88 --> 339.86] He took all that away -[339.86 --> 343.06] Gave us a reason to sing -[343.06 --> 346.24] So go ahead and live like you're loved -[346.24 --> 350.84] It's okay to act like you've been set free -[350.84 --> 354.30] His love has made you more than enough -[354.30 --> 359.06] So go ahead and be who he made you to be -[359.06 --> 362.70] And live like you're loved -[362.70 --> 365.70] Live like you're loved -[365.70 --> 371.16] Live like you're loved -[371.16 --> 375.16] Live like you're loved -[375.16 --> 377.16] Live like you're loved -[377.16 --> 379.04] Walk like you're free -[379.04 --> 383.06] Stand like you know who he made you to be -[383.06 --> 385.16] Live like you're loved -[385.16 --> 387.04] Like you believe -[387.04 --> 391.08] His love is all that you'll ever need -[391.08 --> 394.26] So go ahead and live like you're loved -[394.26 --> 402.30] His love has made you more than enough -[402.30 --> 410.24] So go ahead and live like you're loved -[410.24 --> 414.92] It's okay to act like you've been set free -[414.92 --> 418.58] His love has made you more than enough -[418.58 --> 423.12] So go ahead and be who he made you to be -[423.12 --> 426.12] And live like you're loved -[426.12 --> 427.10] And live like you're loved -[427.10 --> 431.10] Live like you're loved -[431.10 --> 439.74] Live like you're loved -[439.74 --> 441.16] Live like you're loved -[441.16 --> 443.06] Walk like you're free -[443.06 --> 447.04] Stand like you know who he made you to be -[447.04 --> 449.16] Live like you're loved -[449.16 --> 455.10] Like you believe, his love is all that you'll ever need -[455.10 --> 457.34] A man like your love -[457.34 --> 487.32] A man like your love -[487.34 --> 489.38] And you're holding on -[489.38 --> 492.12] But feel like you're falling -[492.12 --> 495.56] With every option exhausted -[495.56 --> 499.70] You tried everything you know -[499.70 --> 504.22] You saw light then you lost it -[504.22 --> 507.34] But there is still hope -[507.34 --> 511.26] Like the fire in the night -[511.26 --> 515.20] Like the ocean parted wide -[515.20 --> 519.02] Like the grave empty inside -[519.02 --> 523.04] You will see he's still dead -[523.04 --> 524.52] Miracles -[524.52 --> 526.52] Miracles -[526.52 --> 528.34] Miracles -[528.34 --> 530.34] Miracles -[530.34 --> 534.54] Even if you don't see it now -[534.54 --> 536.24] Without a doubt -[536.24 --> 538.94] He's already moving -[538.94 --> 542.46] There's not a pain that you hold -[542.46 --> 544.06] He doesn't know -[544.06 --> 546.78] And he isn't using -[546.78 --> 550.20] With every option exhausted -[550.20 --> 554.44] You tried everything you know -[554.44 --> 559.04] So reach for something beyond it -[559.04 --> 561.96] Cause he is our hope -[561.96 --> 565.88] Like the fire in the night -[565.88 --> 569.82] Like the ocean parted wide -[569.82 --> 573.64] Like the grave empty inside -[573.64 --> 577.62] You will see he's still dead -[577.62 --> 579.14] Miracles -[579.14 --> 581.48] Miracles -[581.48 --> 582.96] Miracles -[582.96 --> 584.96] Miracles -[584.96 --> 586.96] Miracles -[586.96 --> 588.64] Miracles -[588.64 --> 590.96] Miracles -[590.96 --> 592.96] Miracles -[592.96 --> 594.96] Miracles -[595.46 --> 595.74] Miracles -[595.74 --> 596.46] Intro -[596.74 --> 598.40] Miracles -[598.48 --> 599.34] Miracles -[599.34 --> 600.36] Miracles -[600.36 --> 600.82] Miracles -[600.82 --> 600.98] Miracles -[600.98 --> 601.84] Miracles -[601.84 --> 602.68] Miracles -[602.68 --> 603.46] Miracles -[603.46 --> 603.86] Miracles -[603.86 --> 604.28] Miracles -[604.28 --> 604.98] Miracles -[604.98 --> 606.86] Miracles -[606.86 --> 607.88] Miracles -[607.88 --> 608.88] Miracles -[608.88 --> 610.78] Miracles -[610.78 --> 611.28] Miracles -[611.28 --> 612.86] Miracles -[612.86 --> 614.76] Miracles -[614.76 --> 615.38] Miracles -[615.38 --> 616.80] Miracles -[616.92 --> 619.10] Miracles -[619.10 --> 620.78] Miracles -[620.78 --> 621.14] Miracles -[621.14 --> 622.08] Miracles -[622.08 --> 629.08] You will see he still does miracles -[629.08 --> 639.08] He still does -[639.08 --> 642.08] He still does -[642.08 --> 646.08] You're the new can't I dream -[646.08 --> 650.08] More than you have nothing -[650.08 --> 654.08] Destination -[654.08 --> 656.08] Destination -[656.08 --> 660.08] Miracle -[680.08 --> 690.08] Destination -[690.08 --> 700.08] I keep fighting voices in my mind that say I'm not enough -[700.08 --> 710.08] Every single lie that tells me I will never measure -[710.08 --> 720.08] Love -[720.08 --> 724.08] Am I more than just the sum of every high and every low -[724.08 --> 738.08] Remind me once again just who I am because I need to know -[738.08 --> 748.08] You say I'm loved when I can't feel a thing -[748.08 --> 756.08] You say I'm strong when I think I'm weak -[756.08 --> 762.08] Good morning everyone -[762.08 --> 766.08] Welcome to Langley Emanuel CRC this morning -[766.08 --> 769.08] It's good to see that this section showed up today -[769.08 --> 772.08] We'll see if the other sections come too -[772.08 --> 775.08] Happy Father's Day to everyone out there -[775.08 --> 779.08] We are so grateful and thankful for all of you dads out there -[779.08 --> 781.08] So a special Father's Day to you -[781.08 --> 784.08] We know that this is a very exciting day and a fun day for so many -[784.08 --> 788.08] We also pray alongside of many of you where this is a difficult day -[788.08 --> 792.08] We know that Father's Day brings a lot of different contexts with families -[792.08 --> 794.08] There are people who have lost dads -[794.08 --> 795.08] There's dads who have lost kids -[795.08 --> 799.08] There's people who have strained relationships with their fathers as well -[799.08 --> 800.08] And we are praying for you -[800.08 --> 801.08] We are here for you as well -[801.08 --> 807.08] We pray that today is a day that God our Father brings you a sense of peace as well -[808.08 --> 811.08] I'm going to go through a couple of announcements this morning -[811.08 --> 813.08] I'm going to invite Brenda Elkema up for it -[813.08 --> 815.08] She's got an announcement or two as well -[815.08 --> 817.08] Before you get to my announcements -[817.08 --> 821.08] Pastor Chris is not here today because he is at Synod -[821.08 --> 823.08] At Synod this week -[823.08 --> 825.08] And so he is in Grand Rapids doing that -[825.08 --> 829.08] And so my name if I didn't introduce myself is Kevin -[829.08 --> 832.08] I'm the youth pastor here and that's why I am up here right now -[832.08 --> 834.08] So I'm going to throw it over to Brenda Elkema -[834.08 --> 838.08] And she's going to have a couple of announcements on behalf of the Deacons -[839.08 --> 841.08] Good morning and welcome here -[841.08 --> 844.08] Yes, I have a couple of announcements from the Deacons -[844.08 --> 850.08] One is today is sort of officially our last day for the Baby Bottle Campaign -[850.08 --> 852.08] For the Hope for Women -[852.08 --> 856.08] You can return them if you have them with you -[856.08 --> 858.08] You can return them to me -[858.08 --> 861.08] I'll be in the back at the Connect booth after the service -[861.08 --> 865.08] If you forgot or anything like that, that's fine -[865.08 --> 866.08] We've got next week -[866.08 --> 871.08] If you'd still like to take a bottle today and fill it and return it next week -[871.08 --> 872.08] That's possible too -[872.08 --> 874.08] So come and see me afterwards -[874.08 --> 879.08] The other announcement I have has to do with our annual -[879.08 --> 881.08] It's become an annual -[881.08 --> 886.08] Food Bank Drive that we've done the last couple of years in July -[886.08 --> 890.08] It's a time for the Food Bank that they can really use our support -[890.08 --> 892.08] They've really appreciated it -[892.08 --> 898.08] And we've set the date this year for July the 7th -[898.08 --> 907.08] Sunday July the 7th will be the day that we go out and we hand out grocery bags to our neighborhood -[907.08 --> 909.08] Around here in Murrayville -[909.08 --> 913.08] There will be routes, maps, all of that sort of thing -[913.08 --> 918.08] You will be, maybe should be contacted by your elder -[918.08 --> 920.08] I know all the elders don't know that yet -[920.08 --> 922.08] But you're getting an email too -[922.08 --> 929.08] To just gather some of those from your district to be able to hand out the grocery bags -[929.08 --> 932.08] Then on July the 13th, the following Saturday -[932.08 --> 936.08] We will have our community event -[936.08 --> 940.08] Where people can bring back their filled grocery bags -[940.08 --> 944.08] And we'll have a pancake breakfast and activity stations -[944.08 --> 946.08] That's where you all come in -[946.08 --> 954.08] I have and will have in the back church a sign up for you to put your name and phone number -[954.08 --> 960.08] For any event, any part of that event that you would be able to help out with -[960.08 --> 967.08] There's set up, there's clean up, there's pancake flippers that we need -[967.08 --> 969.08] There's a welcome booth -[969.08 --> 974.08] We need some people to drive, like to pick up the bouncy castle -[974.08 --> 977.08] And then there's activity stations as well -[977.08 --> 979.08] So if you're able to help out, that would be great -[979.08 --> 981.08] I'll put these at the Connect booth as well -[981.08 --> 982.08] Thanks -[982.08 --> 988.08] A couple more announcements this morning -[988.08 --> 991.08] Next week Sunday, the 23rd -[991.08 --> 994.08] You're all invited to stay following the AM service -[994.08 --> 997.08] We're going to have a very brief, I've seen the agenda -[997.08 --> 998.08] Congregational meeting -[998.08 --> 1001.08] And then a very exciting barbecue as well -[1001.08 --> 1003.08] So come stay for a barbecue lunch -[1003.08 --> 1004.08] Stay for a congregational meeting -[1004.08 --> 1006.08] We've got to give the thumbs up to some finances -[1006.08 --> 1008.08] That should be a fun Sunday as well -[1008.08 --> 1010.08] So please stick around for that -[1010.08 --> 1013.08] Finally, on behalf of Children's Worship Time -[1013.08 --> 1015.08] We are looking for a little bit of help -[1015.08 --> 1019.08] The final Sunday of our regular schedule for Children's Worship Time on Sunday -[1019.08 --> 1021.08] Is coming to an end in a couple weeks -[1021.08 --> 1023.08] And then we're going to hit summer mode -[1023.08 --> 1025.08] And in order for summer Children's Worship Time to happen -[1025.08 --> 1027.08] For our younger kids -[1027.08 --> 1030.08] We're looking for a number of teachers out there as well -[1030.08 --> 1033.08] I think we're still in need of like 13 people to sign up for a Sunday -[1033.08 --> 1035.08] So if you can do that, that's all found online -[1035.08 --> 1037.08] It's also at the back at the Children's Worship booth -[1037.08 --> 1039.08] Or you can talk to me, or you can talk to Amy -[1039.08 --> 1040.08] Or you can talk to Amy -[1040.08 --> 1041.08] She's waving through the glass -[1041.08 --> 1043.08] If you all turned around, you can see her -[1043.08 --> 1044.08] She's waving at everyone -[1044.08 --> 1045.08] It's all very exciting -[1045.08 --> 1047.08] Go talk to her as well -[1047.08 --> 1048.08] Finally, about Amy -[1048.08 --> 1051.08] Amy has been coordinating Children's Worship Time for the past three years -[1051.08 --> 1055.08] But she is looking to step away from the Children's Coordinator position -[1055.08 --> 1057.08] Starting in September -[1057.08 --> 1060.08] And so we are looking for one or two or three people -[1060.08 --> 1063.08] To help coordinate that Children's Worship Time ministry -[1063.08 --> 1066.08] As an added bonus, you get to work with me a little bit -[1066.08 --> 1067.08] So that's fun -[1067.08 --> 1073.08] But we are looking for that to get set up for Sundays in September -[1073.08 --> 1075.08] Amy is happy to help out with some scheduling -[1075.08 --> 1077.08] And do a little bit of a transition with that -[1077.08 --> 1080.08] But if that is an area that you are interested in helping out with -[1080.08 --> 1083.08] Please come speak to me or to Amy -[1083.08 --> 1087.08] And we'd love to have that rolling sooner than later as well -[1087.08 --> 1090.08] I'm going to invite you now to please rise -[1090.08 --> 1095.08] And hear God's greeting for us this Sunday morning -[1095.08 --> 1102.08] God's greeting this morning comes from Revelation chapter 1 -[1102.08 --> 1103.08] Where it says -[1103.08 --> 1105.08] Grace and peace to you -[1105.08 --> 1109.08] From him who is and who was and who is to come -[1109.08 --> 1112.08] And from the seven spirits that are before his throne -[1112.08 --> 1115.08] And from Jesus Christ who is the faithful witness -[1115.08 --> 1117.08] The firstborn of the dead -[1117.08 --> 1120.08] And the ruler of the kings of the earth -[1120.08 --> 1122.08] And all God's people said -[1122.08 --> 1124.08] As God has greeted us this morning -[1124.08 --> 1127.08] Please take a moment to greet those around you -[1150.08 --> 1162.08] And the Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer -[1162.08 --> 1166.08] My God is my rock in whom I take refuge -[1166.08 --> 1168.08] My shield and the horn of my salvation -[1168.08 --> 1172.08] He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior -[1172.08 --> 1174.08] For who is God besides the Lord -[1174.08 --> 1176.08] And who is the rock except our God -[1176.08 --> 1179.08] The Lord lives, praise be to my rock -[1179.08 --> 1182.08] Exalted be my God, the rock my savior -[1182.08 --> 1187.08] Therefore I will praise you, Lord among the nations -[1187.08 --> 1189.08] I will sing the praises of your name -[1189.08 --> 1191.08] Oder and sing the praise and praise -[1191.08 --> 1192.08] For who is the rock of my salvation -[1192.08 --> 1202.08] Lord of mine, my chia -[1202.08 --> 1206.08] Speak on l exhibited three Societown in the name of His throne -[1206.08 --> 1211.08] The Lord theuine world -[1211.08 --> 1225.08] Praise is rising -[1225.08 --> 1230.08] Eyes are turning to you -[1230.08 --> 1234.08] We turn to you -[1234.08 --> 1240.08] Hope is turning -[1240.08 --> 1244.08] Eyes are turning -[1244.08 --> 1247.08] For you -[1247.08 --> 1251.08] We long for you -[1251.08 --> 1253.08] When we see you -[1253.08 --> 1255.08] We find strength -[1255.08 --> 1259.08] To face the day -[1259.08 --> 1261.08] In your presence -[1261.08 --> 1263.08] All our demons -[1263.08 --> 1265.08] Are washed away -[1265.08 --> 1269.08] Washed away -[1269.08 --> 1273.08] Hosanna -[1273.08 --> 1276.08] Hosanna -[1276.08 --> 1280.08] You are the God who saved us -[1280.08 --> 1284.08] Worthy of all our praises -[1284.08 --> 1288.08] Hosanna -[1288.08 --> 1291.08] Hosanna -[1291.08 --> 1301.08] wis them -[1302.08 --> 1312.08] Hun Chaik -[1312.08 --> 1315.08] If we turn to you -[1317.08 --> 1325.08] In your kingdom broken by dying -[1327.08 --> 1330.08] If you make a new -[1331.08 --> 1337.08] Cause when we see you we find strength to face the day -[1337.08 --> 1344.08] In your presence all our fears are washed away -[1345.08 --> 1348.08] Washed away -[1349.08 --> 1355.08] Hosanna, Hosanna -[1356.08 --> 1359.08] You are the God who saved us -[1360.08 --> 1363.08] Worthy of all our praise to Him -[1363.08 --> 1370.08] Hosanna, Hosanna -[1371.08 --> 1374.08] Now have your way among us -[1375.08 --> 1378.08] We love you in fear, Lord Jesus -[1379.08 --> 1385.08] Hosanna, Hosanna -[1385.08 --> 1389.08] You are the God who saved us -[1390.08 --> 1393.08] Worthy of all our praises -[1394.08 --> 1399.08] Hosanna, Hosanna -[1400.08 --> 1404.08] God have your way among us -[1405.08 --> 1408.08] We love you in fear, Lord Jesus -[1408.08 --> 1410.08] Hosanna -[1411.08 --> 1414.08] Hosanna, Hosanna -[1415.08 --> 1417.08] As a God of all our spirits -[1418.08 --> 1420.08] Hosanna, Hosanna -[1421.08 --> 1423.08] Hosanna, Hosanna -[1424.08 --> 1427.08] Hosanna, Hosanna -[1427.08 --> 1429.08] Hosanna -[1429.08 --> 1431.08] Hosanna, Hosanna -[1431.08 --> 1460.08] From the depths of the sea, from the heights of the heaven, your name be praised. -[1460.08 --> 1481.08] From the hearts of the weak, from the shouts of the strong, from the lips of all people, this song we raise on. -[1481.08 --> 1493.08] Throughout the endless ages, you will be crowned with praises, Lord, most high. -[1493.08 --> 1509.08] Exalted in every nation, sovereign of all creation, Lord, most highly mankind. -[1509.08 --> 1531.08] From the depths of the sea, from the depths of the sea, from the heights of heaven, your name be praised. -[1531.08 --> 1550.08] From the hearts of the weak, from the shouts of the strong, from the lips of all people, this song we raise, Lord. -[1550.08 --> 1562.08] Throughout the endless ages, you will be crowned with praises, Lord, most high. -[1562.08 --> 1576.08] Exalted in every nation, sovereign of all creation, Lord, most high. -[1576.08 --> 1578.08] Be magnified. -[1578.08 --> 1580.08] Be magnified. -[1580.08 --> 1582.08] Be magnified. -[1582.08 --> 1589.08] You may have a seat. -[1589.08 --> 1601.08] In 1 Peter 2, there are words of various sins that each of us can commit at any given time. -[1601.08 --> 1611.08] Deceit, hypocrisy, envy, slander are just a few that are mentioned there. -[1611.08 --> 1620.08] And if we think through our week, I'm sure each of us can be aware of at least one, if not more, that we have committed this week. -[1620.08 --> 1622.08] I know I have. -[1622.08 --> 1625.08] But 1 Peter 2 continues when it says, -[1625.08 --> 1636.08] Like newborn babies crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good. -[1636.08 --> 1657.08] As you come to him, the living stone, rejected by humans, but chosen by God and precious to him, you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. -[1657.08 --> 1660.08] For in Scripture it says, -[1660.08 --> 1670.08] See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame. -[1670.08 --> 1674.08] Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. -[1674.08 --> 1686.08] But to those who do not believe, the stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone, and a stone that causes people to stumble and a rock that makes them fall. -[1686.08 --> 1693.08] They stumble because they disobey the message, which is also what they were destined for. -[1693.08 --> 1700.08] Pure and by my heart, let me be a soul. -[1700.08 --> 1707.08] Pure and by my heart, let me be a soul. -[1707.08 --> 1713.58] Pure and by my heart, let me be a soul. -[1713.58 --> 1716.08] Pure and by my heart, let me be a soul. -[1716.08 --> 1723.48] Precious silver, purify my heart. -[1723.48 --> 1732.28] Let me be as gold, pure gold. -[1732.82 --> 1736.90] Reef my dear smile. -[1736.90 --> 1750.80] My heart's one desire is to be holy. -[1752.02 --> 1763.82] Set apart for you, Lord, I choose to be holy. -[1763.82 --> 1776.88] Set apart for you, my Master, ready to do your will. -[1776.88 --> 1786.88] Purify my heart. -[1787.48 --> 1789.88] Cleanse me from within. -[1791.98 --> 1795.10] And make me holy. -[1795.84 --> 1798.88] Purify my heart. -[1798.88 --> 1803.88] Cleanse me from my sin. -[1804.88 --> 1807.88] Deep within. -[1808.88 --> 1812.88] Reef my dear smile. -[1814.88 --> 1825.88] My heart's one desire is to be holy. -[1825.88 --> 1838.88] Set apart for you, Lord, I choose to be holy. -[1838.88 --> 1850.88] Set apart for you, my Master, ready to do your will. -[1850.88 --> 1863.70] Please stand with us together as we continue to hear words from 1 Peter 2. -[1863.70 --> 1867.50] Where he goes on and says, -[1867.70 --> 1875.18] But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, -[1875.56 --> 1881.50] that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. -[1882.38 --> 1886.78] Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God. -[1886.78 --> 1892.40] Once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. -[1892.40 --> 1897.40] Lord, yes, is your life in me, making me queen through your love. -[1897.40 --> 1921.40] Holiness is your fire in me, making me queen through your love. -[1921.40 --> 1931.40] Holiness is your fire in me, perfect in my heart like a flower. -[1931.40 --> 1941.40] I know you are perfect in holiness. -[1941.40 --> 1948.40] Holiness is your life in yours,citoeness is your life in me. -[1948.40 --> 1952.40] Living твоему, С его ими любит меня. -[1952.40 --> 1959.40] Только ты лай на газ� в Фурусную господио crippс bacterial пinta. -[1959.40 --> 1966.40] ilty -[1989.40 --> 1998.24] Making me holy, holy the blood of Jesus. -[2002.44 --> 2010.62] Holiness is your light in me, making me clean through your blood. -[2010.62 --> 2019.92] Holiness is your fire in me, purging my heart like a flood. -[2022.32 --> 2030.12] I know you are perfect in holiness. -[2030.12 --> 2040.42] Holiness is your light in me, setting me free, making me holy. -[2041.64 --> 2048.36] Holiness is your blood of Jesus, covered all of my sins. -[2050.36 --> 2059.20] Holiness is your blood of Jesus, renews me from within. -[2060.12 --> 2068.12] Your blood is enough, your mercy complete. -[2070.04 --> 2078.12] Your worth of atonement, gave all my debts, making me holy. -[2080.12 --> 2084.86] Holy the blood of Jesus. -[2090.12 --> 2102.00] Good morning again. -[2102.00 --> 2103.00] Thank you. -[2103.00 --> 2104.00] Thank you. -[2104.00 --> 2110.24] This morning we continue our worship with the giving of our gifts and for the budget of -[2110.24 --> 2111.22] Emanuel Church here. -[2111.22 --> 2117.60] Our special offering today is for World Renew, the refugee sponsorship and resettlement. -[2118.60 --> 2124.40] Just to make a clarification, there is the World Renew refugee sponsorship and resettlement, -[2124.66 --> 2130.52] and there is also a Langley Emanuel refugee sponsorship. -[2130.52 --> 2134.62] This is for the World Renew, just to be clear there. -[2135.62 --> 2142.50] Since 1979, World Renew has partnered with churches, other faith-based organizations and sponsoring groups -[2142.50 --> 2148.54] to respond to the needs of refugees around the world and has successfully sponsored and resettled -[2148.54 --> 2151.14] more than 11,000 refugees to Canada. -[2151.14 --> 2154.14] No one is a refugee by choice. -[2154.74 --> 2160.28] Inspired by scripture and God's love for all, World Renew is committed to helping families -[2160.28 --> 2162.00] rebuild their lives with dignity. -[2162.96 --> 2168.32] Sponsorship and resettlement provides refugees with protection and a hope for the future. -[2169.08 --> 2174.80] It's a way of putting faith into action that can change lives, those of refugees and those -[2174.80 --> 2176.02] who advocate for them. -[2176.02 --> 2182.10] We are thankful that our church continues to be an active partner with World Renew in bringing -[2182.10 --> 2183.88] hope and love to these families. -[2184.34 --> 2186.14] Let's give as God has blessed us. -[2198.14 --> 2203.84] Your word alone is solid ground -[2203.84 --> 2209.72] The mighty rock on which we build -[2209.72 --> 2214.92] In every line the truth is found -[2214.92 --> 2220.80] And every page where glory fails -[2220.80 --> 2228.38] Through faithful Lord we come to you -[2228.38 --> 2234.00] We have no marriage we can claim -[2234.00 --> 2239.46] Sure that your promise is all true -[2239.46 --> 2245.14] We place our hope in tears of pain -[2245.14 --> 2249.70] Gloria, Gloria -[2249.70 --> 2255.46] Glory to God alone -[2255.46 --> 2258.46] Gloria, Gloria -[2258.46 --> 2260.46] Gloria, Gloria -[2260.46 --> 2266.94] Gloria to God alone -[2266.94 --> 2279.46] In Christ alone we're justified -[2279.46 --> 2281.46] His righteousness is all our cheat -[2281.46 --> 2287.26] His righteousness is all our keep -[2287.26 --> 2288.46] Your lost amen -[2288.46 --> 2289.50] Our satisfied -[2289.50 --> 2290.44] His righteousness is all our keep -[2290.44 --> 2293.98] Your lofty man is all our keep -[2293.98 --> 2294.54] Your lostery man is all our start is wide -[2294.54 --> 2296.58] His perfect work has set us free -[2296.58 --> 2307.58] Gloria, Gloria, glory to God alone. -[2308.80 --> 2318.18] Gloria, Gloria, glory to God alone. -[2326.58 --> 2332.44] By grace alone we have been saved. -[2332.96 --> 2337.72] All that we are has come from you. -[2338.68 --> 2343.68] Hearts that were once by sin enslaved, -[2344.14 --> 2348.78] now by your power has been made new. -[2348.78 --> 2355.78] Gloria, Gloria, glory to God alone. -[2356.58 --> 2369.58] Gloria, Gloria, glory to God alone. -[2369.58 --> 2380.58] Gloria, Gloria, glory to God alone. -[2380.58 --> 2392.58] Gloria, Gloria, glory to God alone. -[2392.58 --> 2404.90] Good morning. -[2405.22 --> 2408.64] My name is Mrs. Nikki, and I'd like to welcome all the kids to come forward, -[2408.78 --> 2411.58] age three all the way up to grade four. -[2411.58 --> 2421.84] There's just a few of us here right now. -[2422.92 --> 2424.72] You guys get to be extra talkative. -[2425.90 --> 2426.48] Sound good? -[2427.36 --> 2429.70] Before we head off to children's worship time, -[2429.82 --> 2432.58] I wanted to talk a little bit about hiking. -[2433.42 --> 2434.88] Has anyone ever been on a hike? -[2435.68 --> 2436.04] Yeah? -[2436.18 --> 2437.28] A bunch of you have been on a hike? -[2437.28 --> 2437.80] What do you do? -[2437.90 --> 2438.88] What is a hike? -[2438.94 --> 2441.32] In case maybe there are some people who don't know what a hike is. -[2441.74 --> 2442.08] Karis? -[2443.26 --> 2445.10] When you climb up a mountain, yeah? -[2445.28 --> 2447.06] Yes, when you walk in a forest. -[2447.28 --> 2448.28] You walk in a forest? -[2448.82 --> 2449.00] Yeah? -[2449.74 --> 2449.98] Yes. -[2450.34 --> 2451.24] And you bag. -[2451.44 --> 2452.98] You might take a bag, that's right. -[2453.08 --> 2455.20] My dad wants to go down mountain. -[2455.92 --> 2458.34] Oh, yeah, that's kind of like hiking except on a bike, -[2458.52 --> 2459.86] the same area, Malachi? -[2459.86 --> 2459.96] Malachi? -[2459.96 --> 2461.44] You can hike? -[2461.52 --> 2463.96] Well, there's definitely lots of trees in the forest where you're hiking. -[2464.56 --> 2467.56] When you're hiking, usually trying to make it up to, like, -[2467.62 --> 2470.06] maybe the top of a mountain where there's a beautiful view -[2470.06 --> 2473.82] or maybe up to a lake where you can take a little swim -[2473.82 --> 2477.96] or you might just want to enjoy the surroundings as you're going up. -[2479.08 --> 2481.62] When you go hiking, something that's really important -[2481.62 --> 2484.16] is that you stay on the path, right? -[2484.42 --> 2486.18] There's usually a path that you have to follow. -[2486.18 --> 2487.90] Why might you have to stay on the path? -[2489.32 --> 2490.28] Why do we think? -[2490.80 --> 2491.06] Levi? -[2491.06 --> 2491.18] Levi? -[2493.96 --> 2502.62] Oh, because there might be, that's right, -[2502.68 --> 2504.94] there's lots of wild animals that live in the forest. -[2505.00 --> 2506.14] We don't want to run into them. -[2506.32 --> 2507.20] Everly, what do you think? -[2508.20 --> 2509.60] To be safe, definitely. -[2510.24 --> 2510.64] Karis? -[2512.82 --> 2514.78] Yeah, so you go up to the right place in the end. -[2514.84 --> 2516.56] So it's really important to stay on the path. -[2517.12 --> 2519.62] So, yeah, sometimes there is. -[2519.62 --> 2521.42] So as long as you're on the marked path, -[2521.46 --> 2523.96] sometimes there's little, like, little diamonds on the trees -[2523.96 --> 2524.88] so you know where you're going. -[2525.32 --> 2527.94] So in children's worship today, we're going to talk about Jesus -[2527.94 --> 2533.08] and how he is our path, how he is the way, the truth, and the life, -[2533.08 --> 2536.74] and how we need to follow Jesus and stay on his path. -[2536.98 --> 2538.78] So that's going to be our theme today. -[2539.30 --> 2542.56] Before we go, we're going to just stand up and do our blessing, -[2542.56 --> 2544.86] and then we're going to continue our worship. -[2572.56 --> 2576.92] My name is Paul, and I'm an elder here, -[2577.16 --> 2580.92] and I'd like to lead you in our family prayer. -[2585.44 --> 2587.64] I better put my reading glasses on. -[2591.88 --> 2593.00] Let's go to our Father. -[2593.00 --> 2593.04] Father. -[2596.56 --> 2599.84] Holy Father in heaven, we praise your name. -[2599.84 --> 2603.48] We exalt you above all the earth. -[2604.68 --> 2605.60] Holy is your name. -[2606.54 --> 2608.62] We lift your name above all things -[2608.62 --> 2611.76] because you have created everything that we see. -[2613.46 --> 2616.80] Lord, we have the privilege to live in this beautiful place. -[2618.58 --> 2621.50] We only have to look around us to see your handiwork. -[2622.36 --> 2625.66] We give thanks for all this world and its immense beauty, -[2626.20 --> 2627.84] its heights, its depths, -[2627.84 --> 2631.26] the breath of it beyond our knowing. -[2632.36 --> 2634.30] And yet you know it, -[2634.90 --> 2636.42] and you know us. -[2637.38 --> 2638.90] You have made yourself known. -[2640.22 --> 2643.00] For the abundance of the gifts you give us, -[2643.08 --> 2643.70] we thank you. -[2644.52 --> 2648.28] For the sun and the rains that allow the land to flourish, -[2648.44 --> 2649.10] we thank you. -[2650.26 --> 2653.82] Your blessings are poured out on each and every one of us, -[2653.90 --> 2657.20] regardless of what we do and how we live our lives. -[2657.84 --> 2662.42] We thank you that also in times of disappointments and failures -[2662.42 --> 2667.20] that lead us to acknowledge our dependence on you alone. -[2667.20 --> 2673.58] And especially we thank you for your saving grace that you've shown us through your son, -[2673.74 --> 2674.52] Jesus Christ. -[2675.78 --> 2679.52] Open our hearts so that we allow your spirit to lead us, -[2679.72 --> 2682.68] so that we may walk in your ways. -[2682.68 --> 2685.06] With your spirit, -[2685.06 --> 2685.98] help us to pray, -[2685.98 --> 2688.78] because we don't know how to pray what we should, -[2689.84 --> 2693.28] but intercede for us with sighs too deep for words. -[2695.04 --> 2697.66] So, Lord, we come to you now with these petitions. -[2697.66 --> 2701.40] It's Father's Day, -[2701.40 --> 2704.94] and we thank God for the many wonderful dads in our midst. -[2705.72 --> 2706.80] We thank you, -[2707.52 --> 2712.72] and we ask you to bless them for continued strength and faith and health and joy. -[2712.72 --> 2717.16] We also pray for those who struggle with absence, -[2717.68 --> 2718.08] loss, -[2718.26 --> 2720.44] or strained relationships with their fathers. -[2721.44 --> 2724.36] Comfort them in their grief and loneliness. -[2725.50 --> 2731.26] We ask that you will help them remember that you are our perfect father -[2731.26 --> 2733.96] that has unending love and presence. -[2733.96 --> 2740.98] We pray for the DeGroote family as they navigate this weekend without their husband, -[2741.22 --> 2741.62] father, -[2741.82 --> 2742.46] and grandfather, -[2742.64 --> 2742.94] Dennis. -[2743.84 --> 2747.12] We ask you to be near to them during this time of grief. -[2749.52 --> 2751.28] We pray for Faye Shonit, -[2752.22 --> 2755.44] who was in a serious car accident this past Tuesday evening. -[2756.18 --> 2758.68] We thank you that she was not seriously injured -[2758.68 --> 2761.46] and was able to be discharged from the hospital quickly. -[2761.46 --> 2764.92] We ask for complete healing for Faye. -[2767.30 --> 2770.92] We thank you that Kobe DeBorsap is doing quite well -[2770.92 --> 2772.84] considering all that she's been through. -[2773.82 --> 2777.20] We pray that when her chemo treatments are done, -[2777.54 --> 2779.30] that she can go home soon. -[2781.04 --> 2784.78] We pray that the new stem cells will truly help her body. -[2786.62 --> 2790.14] We're thankful, along with Kern and Stephen Varsha, -[2790.14 --> 2792.58] for some good news that they received this week. -[2793.58 --> 2797.18] We praise you that the news of Everly scans have come back clear, -[2797.94 --> 2802.80] and we pray for continued clear scans and the upcoming surgery, -[2803.10 --> 2806.60] for strength on this journey and wisdom for the doctors. -[2806.60 --> 2812.34] We thank you for the opportunities and blessings that you have provided -[2812.34 --> 2814.22] throughout this past school year. -[2814.22 --> 2817.96] As we approach the end of the academic year, -[2818.06 --> 2822.60] we pray for our teachers and students that they may finish well. -[2824.10 --> 2828.00] We also bring before you the meetings of Synod in Grand Rapids, Michigan, -[2828.00 --> 2831.94] where many things are being discussed and decisions are being made -[2831.94 --> 2834.16] for our denomination in North America. -[2834.16 --> 2837.96] We pray for our pastor Chris, -[2838.10 --> 2841.90] as he is doing the work of being a delegate for Synod this year. -[2844.74 --> 2848.18] We ask you for your protection for this church family. -[2849.28 --> 2853.16] We pray you will continue to bless the ongoing ministries of this church, -[2854.54 --> 2855.98] sustain us in the present, -[2856.46 --> 2857.88] and guide us into the future -[2857.88 --> 2861.78] as we hear your will for us this morning -[2861.78 --> 2864.18] through the word preached by Pastor Kevin. -[2865.00 --> 2866.90] Bind us together in Christ. -[2868.44 --> 2870.70] Keep us focused on our purpose -[2870.70 --> 2873.44] and fill us with the Holy Spirit. -[2874.72 --> 2878.12] We pray that we will grow in love and truth -[2878.12 --> 2880.66] and righteousness and peace, -[2881.48 --> 2882.52] hope and faith. -[2882.52 --> 2886.44] Help us to grow in Jesus -[2886.44 --> 2889.18] that we may become more and more like him -[2889.18 --> 2890.70] in character and soul. -[2892.94 --> 2895.82] Fulfill your will and purposes among us. -[2896.90 --> 2898.48] Advance your kingdom through us -[2898.48 --> 2900.96] so that your holy name is glorified. -[2903.24 --> 2905.62] Who are we that we should share -[2905.62 --> 2907.58] in your love and tender care, -[2907.90 --> 2909.50] raised to an exalted height -[2909.50 --> 2912.48] and crowned with honor in your sight? -[2913.48 --> 2915.06] How great is your name! -[2916.08 --> 2917.08] Come quickly, Lord, -[2917.24 --> 2921.32] and bring our redemption to completeness. -[2922.96 --> 2924.92] Gloria, Gloria, -[2925.92 --> 2927.60] glory to God alone. -[2928.82 --> 2931.94] We pray for all these things in your holy name. -[2932.64 --> 2932.92] Amen. -[2942.52 --> 2954.78] Well, last week, -[2954.96 --> 2957.38] we finished our sermon series -[2957.38 --> 2958.64] on the book of Romans. -[2959.20 --> 2960.94] It only took two years, -[2961.34 --> 2962.38] 39 sermons, -[2962.52 --> 2963.26] and a few breaks -[2963.26 --> 2964.48] sort of scattered about. -[2965.16 --> 2966.00] But it was good, right? -[2966.00 --> 2972.96] Yeah, yeah, yeah. Okay, good, good, good. Because it's been a long time since, like, -[2973.00 --> 2977.66] the schedule didn't dictate what text we were looking at, but I thought people liked it so -[2977.66 --> 2982.62] much. If it ain't broke, why fix it? We're just going to go back to Romans 1 today and just start -[2982.62 --> 2987.58] all over again. But then Chris said we can't do the same series twice in a row. That's not allowed. -[2987.66 --> 2992.64] And so I thought I'd check the lectionary then on what text we should be looking at today. And -[2992.64 --> 2998.26] there's a handful of Bible passages, but one of them was Ezekiel chapter 17. And after reading it, -[2998.30 --> 3002.06] I thought, well, that's a pretty cool passage, and it's a little bit different than the letter -[3002.06 --> 3007.52] writing of Paul. So we're going to look at this passage from Ezekiel this morning because I thought -[3007.52 --> 3013.14] it was cool, and it was in the lectionary. Plus, it's Father's Day, and this passage has eagles in -[3013.14 --> 3017.98] it, and my dad loves birds, and especially eagles, and so I thought it was fitting in that way too. -[3017.98 --> 3024.76] So please grab your Bibles. There are some in the back as well if you need to get up and grab those. -[3025.14 --> 3032.44] You can also open your Bible apps on your phones. That works well too. And turn to chapter 17 of -[3032.44 --> 3037.78] Ezekiel this morning. As always, and especially today, please have that open throughout the -[3037.78 --> 3041.94] passages. We're going to be going back to this regularly, and it's not always going to be on -[3041.94 --> 3047.26] the screen. So to start, though, Ezekiel 17 will be up there, but I invite you to flip to that, -[3047.46 --> 3054.18] chapter 17, and we're going to read the whole chapter this morning. So Ezekiel chapter 17. -[3055.30 --> 3062.86] The word of the Lord came to me. Son of man, set forth an allegory and tell it to the Israelites as -[3062.86 --> 3071.50] a parable. Say to them, this is what the sovereign Lord says. A great eagle with powerful wings, long -[3071.50 --> 3078.52] feathers, and full plumage of varied colors came to Lebanon. Taking hold of the top of a cedar, he broke -[3078.52 --> 3084.94] off its topmost shoot and carried it away to a land of merchants, where he planted it in a city of -[3084.94 --> 3091.92] traders. He took one of the seedlings of the land and put it in fertile soil. He planted it like a willow -[3091.92 --> 3099.24] by abundant water, and it sprouted and became a low-spreading vine. Its branches turned towards -[3099.24 --> 3105.96] him, but its roots remained under it. So it became a vine and produced branches and put out leafy bows. -[3107.48 --> 3113.26] But there was another great eagle with powerful wings and full plumage. The vine now sent out its -[3113.26 --> 3119.04] roots toward him from the plot where it was planted and stretched out its branches to him for water. -[3119.04 --> 3124.80] It had been planted in good soil by abundant water so that it would produce branches, bear fruit, and -[3124.80 --> 3132.28] become a splendid vine. Say to them, this is what the sovereign Lord says, will it thrive? Will it not -[3132.28 --> 3137.24] be uprooted and stripped of its fruit so that it withers? All its new growth will wither. It will not -[3137.24 --> 3142.80] take a strong arm or many people to pull it by the roots. It has been planted, but will it thrive? -[3142.80 --> 3148.88] Will it not wither completely when the east wind strikes it? Wither away in the plot where it grew. -[3150.72 --> 3154.94] Then the word of the Lord came to me, say this to the rebellious people, do you not know what these -[3154.94 --> 3160.48] things mean? Say to them, the king of Babylon went to Jerusalem and carried off her king and her nobles, -[3160.84 --> 3165.70] bringing them back with him to Babylon. Then he took a member of the royal family and made a treaty with -[3165.70 --> 3170.86] him, putting him under oath. He also carried away the leading men of the land so that the kingdom -[3170.86 --> 3179.02] would be brought low, unable to rise again, surviving only by keeping his treaty. But the king rebelled -[3179.02 --> 3185.40] against him by sending his envoys to Egypt to get horses and a large army. Will he succeed? -[3186.86 --> 3195.32] Will he who does such things escape? Will he break the treaty and yet escape? As surely as I live, -[3195.38 --> 3200.44] declares the sovereign Lord, he shall die in Babylon, in the land of the king who put him on the throne, -[3200.44 --> 3205.86] whose oath he despised and whose treaty he broke. Pharaoh with his mighty army and great horde will -[3205.86 --> 3212.20] be of no help to him in war. When ramps are built and siege works erected to destroy many lives, -[3212.92 --> 3218.08] he despised the oath by breaking the covenant because he had given his hand in pledge and yet -[3218.08 --> 3224.10] did all these things, he shall not escape. Therefore, this is what the sovereign Lord says, -[3224.18 --> 3230.30] as surely as I live, I will repay him for despising my oath and breaking my covenant. I will spread my net -[3230.30 --> 3237.66] for him and he will be caught in my snare. I will bring him to Babylon and execute judgment on him -[3237.66 --> 3242.90] there because he was unfaithful to me. All his choice troops will fall by the sword and the -[3242.90 --> 3247.68] survivors will be scattered to the winds. Then you will know that I, the Lord, have spoken. -[3249.26 --> 3255.10] This is what the sovereign Lord says, I myself will take a shoot from the very top of a cedar and plant it. -[3255.10 --> 3261.74] I will break off a tender sprig from its topmost shoots and plant it on a high lofty mountain. On -[3261.74 --> 3266.86] the mountain heights of Israel, I will plant it. It will produce branches and bear fruit and become a -[3266.86 --> 3272.76] splendid cedar. Birds of every kind will nest in it. They will find their shelter in the shade of its -[3272.76 --> 3277.98] branches. All the trees of the forest will know that I, the Lord, bring down the tall tree and make -[3277.98 --> 3286.88] the low tree grow tall. I dry up the green tree and I make the dry tree flourish. I, the Lord, have spoken -[3286.88 --> 3297.48] and I will do it. The word of the Lord. I told you it was kind of a cool passage. So what's going on here? -[3297.48 --> 3306.66] What is happening that Ezekiel writes this passage and that God tells Ezekiel to tell this parable? -[3307.56 --> 3312.74] So a little bit of Bible history here before we get too far. Just stick with me while we lay down a -[3312.74 --> 3319.32] little bit of a foundation. So at this point in time, the people of Israel are in a bit of a mess. -[3320.34 --> 3327.34] About 330 years earlier, the nation of Israel split into two nations, Israel and Judah. -[3327.48 --> 3333.40] Israel made up the 10 tribes to the north and Judah made up two tribes to the south. It's kind of like -[3333.40 --> 3338.22] Langley City and Langley Township. They both had their own residents, their own systems, their own -[3338.22 --> 3347.04] kings. We call them mayors. The 10 tribes to the north, called the nation of Israel, they had an awful -[3347.04 --> 3352.50] run. They never had a faithful king. They were terrible. They were disobedient. They were all very -[3352.50 --> 3360.84] sinful. And eventually in 721 BC, Assyria just comes sweeping through and takes them out. They're -[3360.84 --> 3366.28] either wiped out, they're integrated into Assyrian culture, and we don't hear from them again. That's -[3366.28 --> 3375.20] the end of their story. The two southern tribes though, Judah, they were still pretty terrible. But at least -[3375.20 --> 3383.84] they had a few good and faithful kings. And so they survived a little bit longer. But in 597 BC, Babylon -[3383.84 --> 3390.90] comes to Nakan and overtakes them as well. And the people of Judah are taken captive to Babylon. Now they -[3390.90 --> 3398.88] aren't wiped out completely like Israel was, but they're in exile to the Babylonians. Ezekiel, the prophet -[3398.88 --> 3405.48] whose passage we just read today, Ezekiel is a prophet to God's people during this time, during this time -[3405.48 --> 3411.34] in exile. And now one last thing that's important to this text. While this passage today was written -[3411.34 --> 3417.20] to God's people who are already in captivity, they were already in exile, and life wasn't looking great, -[3417.86 --> 3425.16] it also wasn't as bad as it was going to get. They were still in somewhat of a soft exile, if you can -[3425.16 --> 3433.04] call it that. The worst was still to come. And in fact, today's passage is about Ezekiel warning God's -[3433.04 --> 3440.38] people of exactly that. See, Ezekiel writes this passage, this parable is told in order to tell God's -[3440.38 --> 3447.66] people that Babylon, that their very exile that they're in, was being used as an instrument of God's -[3447.66 --> 3455.04] plan, promise, and judgment for their sins. Ezekiel is warning them that all of this punishment is -[3455.04 --> 3462.44] God's plan. So trying to circumvent any of it won't work. Because of their unfaithfulness, because of -[3462.44 --> 3469.10] their wickedness, because they followed and worshiped other gods over the one true God, Judah needed to be -[3469.10 --> 3482.60] in exile to the Babylonians. Exile was the plan. Exile was God's plan. Now in many ways, Ezekiel, if you read -[3482.60 --> 3489.02] his whole book, it's long, but it's fascinating, Ezekiel throughout his book is actually pro-Babylon, -[3489.20 --> 3494.18] which sounds weird, but he says throughout the book over and over again that the Babylonians are an -[3494.18 --> 3502.60] instrument in which God was bringing judgment, and that judgment could not be stopped. But, but, -[3502.60 --> 3511.42] God was also working in and through the exile of his people to bring forward his redemption plan. -[3512.56 --> 3522.10] The big idea from our text is that God's plan always plays out. God's plan always plays out. -[3524.40 --> 3529.22] Today's text both foreshadows the judgment that was always going to come about and tells of a -[3529.22 --> 3534.42] redemption plan that was already in the works. So let's look at this text then. Let's take a look -[3534.42 --> 3540.28] at what we just read from Ezekiel 17. It's actually very conveniently broken into three parts for us, -[3540.40 --> 3547.22] which is handy. So verses 3 to 10 is the parable that God tells Ezekiel to bring to the people. -[3547.92 --> 3555.50] Verses 11 to 21 is an explanation of that parable. And verses 22 to 24 is a promise for all people. -[3555.50 --> 3559.34] So we're going to look at the parable first. We'll do this in order. That makes good sense. -[3559.60 --> 3565.04] Take a look at verses 3 to 10 with me again. So here's the parable. An eagle comes, a big, -[3565.40 --> 3571.98] beautiful eagle, colorful plumage, long feathers, powerful wings, and this eagle heads into Lebanon, -[3572.40 --> 3578.16] which was a part of Israel at the time. And it takes the topmost shoot of a cedar in its beak. -[3578.16 --> 3586.08] He flies back and plants it into fertile soil ground by running water. Now the shoot that it -[3586.08 --> 3592.22] plants, it sprouts, and it turns into this low spreading vine with branches. Now that vine grows, -[3592.66 --> 3600.28] and it grows low, and it reaches towards the eagle that planted it. All right, it didn't grow tall, -[3600.78 --> 3606.70] but it did grow low to the ground, and it produced roots and leafy bows and reaches to the eagle that -[3606.70 --> 3615.04] planted it. But there was another eagle, which lets me use that very popular saying that we've been -[3615.04 --> 3621.90] using for millennia, there's always another eagle. Hasn't been used. I'm making it up today. We're -[3621.90 --> 3629.12] going to let it stick. It's going to take off. I know it. Well, this other eagle, it was also great. -[3629.50 --> 3633.84] It had powerful wings. It had full plumage. But look at the text. Notice in verse 7, -[3633.84 --> 3640.80] the eagle actually doesn't do anything. It really doesn't do much. This eagle just sits there. -[3641.90 --> 3648.64] But that vine that was planted starts to reach out and grow towards this other eagle. -[3649.36 --> 3655.42] There's always another eagle. This vine starts sending its roots towards this other eagle, and the -[3655.42 --> 3662.44] vine starts to weaken. The Lord then asks Israel in verses 9 and 10, what's going to happen to that vine? -[3662.44 --> 3668.66] It's not going to thrive. In fact, it's going to wither. Its new growth and its fruit will be -[3668.66 --> 3673.90] stripped, and it wouldn't even take a strong arm or many people to pull it out of the ground and -[3673.90 --> 3680.40] destroy it. All because that vine started looking towards another eagle. There's always another eagle. -[3681.82 --> 3688.00] So because it looked towards that other eagle, the vine would be destroyed. So that's the parable -[3688.00 --> 3693.88] that's told in verses 3 to 10. But what does it mean? Well, again, fortunately for us, -[3694.50 --> 3700.82] this parable gets explained to us in the next 10, 11 verses. Verses 11 to 21, explain it for us. You -[3700.82 --> 3705.76] can take a peek with me. Follow along there, starting in verse 11. So the two eagles in this story, -[3705.96 --> 3712.78] they represent two nations, all right? Babylon and Egypt, or Nebuchadnezzar, which is Babylon's king, -[3712.78 --> 3720.70] and Pharaoh, which is Egypt's king. Now the first eagle, Babylon, went into Lebanon and made its way -[3720.70 --> 3726.86] towards Jerusalem, which is represented by this giant cedar tree. So Jerusalem is the giant cedar tree. -[3727.30 --> 3733.06] Babylon then, or sorry, yeah, Babylon then took the topmost shoot of the cedar, the topmost shoot -[3733.06 --> 3740.56] of Jerusalem, which our text in verse 12 says is the king and all of its noble people. Takes them from -[3740.56 --> 3746.88] Judah, and the eagle brings them back to Babylon to the fertile ground. Now this eagle, you'll see in -[3746.88 --> 3754.20] verse 5 of our text, he takes this seedling from this shoot. And in this case, it's referring to a -[3754.20 --> 3761.58] king named Zedekiah, all right? And he plants that king, he plants that seedling in fertile ground. So in -[3761.58 --> 3767.66] essence, this is what Babylon did. This is what they did, was they went to Jerusalem, and they brought all -[3767.66 --> 3773.20] its kings, all its leaders, all its nobles back with them to Babylon, and then put a guy named Zedekiah -[3773.20 --> 3780.56] in charge of Judah, with no power, no military, and a sworn oath or treaty that they were going to lead -[3780.56 --> 3787.82] and follow Nebuchadnezzar. And that's what happened. That's the context of the people of God that they -[3787.82 --> 3791.64] found themselves in. They had been captured by Babylon, and they were living under the thumb of -[3791.64 --> 3798.06] Nebuchadnezzar, but they were still like ruled, giant air quotes, by Zedekiah, even though he had -[3798.06 --> 3804.98] no power, no military, no political sway. He was a puppet king. He was in charge, but with no power. He -[3804.98 --> 3810.64] could only operate under the command of the puppet master of Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar. -[3811.72 --> 3818.16] Now the parable tells us how the kingdom of Judah could still grow. The Babylonian soil was rich, -[3818.16 --> 3823.14] but it was never going to be able to rise. It could only function by keeping the treaty with -[3823.14 --> 3828.12] Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. It could function as long as it looked towards Babylon, as long as it looked -[3828.12 --> 3834.08] towards Babylon for support, for everything. And all of that is explained in verses 12 to 14 of our text. -[3835.60 --> 3843.92] But there's always another eagle. Now this other eagle, Egypt, doesn't do anything. Egypt just sits -[3843.92 --> 3852.12] there, but it's beautiful, and it's powerful, and it's alluring to this vine, Zedekiah, this puppet king. -[3852.44 --> 3858.14] This puppet king starts to look towards Egypt, starts to reach towards Egypt, looking for some help, -[3858.64 --> 3862.36] looking for some help from this other nation in order to rebel against Babylon. -[3863.12 --> 3868.06] It didn't have a military to rebel itself, so they started looking to Egypt for help. -[3868.06 --> 3873.16] And that's the end of the story. That's the end of the explanation of the parable. -[3873.86 --> 3878.00] The end of the story hasn't happened yet, but the question then shows up in our text again in verse -[3878.00 --> 3884.84] 14. Will he succeed? Will he be able to find help from Egypt and overthrow Babylon? What's going to -[3884.84 --> 3892.40] happen to the vine? And again, God answers these questions. Just like the vine in the parable will -[3892.40 --> 3900.60] wither up and die, because it spread its roots towards another eagle, there's always another -[3900.60 --> 3908.96] eagle. Just like the vine withers up, so too this king will be destroyed. God exclaims. Look at verse -[3908.96 --> 3915.04] 16 and 17 of our text today. As surely as I live, declares the Lord, he, that is Zedekiah, -[3915.64 --> 3920.90] shall die in Babylon in the land of the king who put him on the throne, whose oath he despised, -[3920.90 --> 3927.86] and whose treaty he broke. Pharaoh with his mighty army and great horde will be of no help to him in -[3927.86 --> 3936.30] war when ramps are built and siege works erected to destroy many lives. So God, through Ezekiel, -[3936.36 --> 3943.08] is warning Zedekiah and warning all of the people of Israel that Babylon was being used as an -[3943.08 --> 3949.10] instrument of God's plan, promise, and judgment for their sins. This exile was not meant to be -[3949.10 --> 3954.72] circumvented, and any attempts to do so, any attempts to look anywhere else for help, was going to be -[3954.72 --> 3960.98] met with destruction. If Zedekiah was going to look to Egypt to help him out in this exile, -[3961.38 --> 3969.54] he was going to fail, and it was going to be bad. So what happened? Like in real life, what happened, -[3969.54 --> 3977.58] you may be asking. So today's text, this Ezekiel 17 passage, was likely written around 591 or 590 BC, -[3977.58 --> 3984.18] the sixth or seventh year of exile in Babylon. We know that because in Ezekiel chapter 8, -[3984.90 --> 3989.80] so nine chapters earlier, it says that they were in the sixth year of exile, and then in Ezekiel -[3989.80 --> 3994.74] chapter 20, which is three chapters after this text, they are in their seventh year of exile, -[3994.86 --> 3999.32] it says. And then this text falls in between that, so we can know that to be true. We also know that -[3999.32 --> 4006.28] exile started in 597 BC because history tells us that. Both the Babylonian Nebuchadnezzar -[4006.28 --> 4010.94] Chronicle, which is a tablet that was discovered that had Babylonian history written on it, -[4011.10 --> 4017.80] as well as the Bible in 2 Kings 24, 10 to 16, they teach us that. Those dates align. So the dates -[4017.80 --> 4023.72] align, and it's known historically to be true. So this parable is written and spoken in about 590-ish BC, -[4023.88 --> 4030.24] which is right around the time when King Zedekiah, that puppet king in Judah, starts looking to Egypt -[4030.24 --> 4037.22] for help. Well, historically, despite the warnings in this parable, Zedekiah keeps looking towards Egypt, -[4037.56 --> 4044.48] and he gets nothing from them. Worse than that, Nebuchadnezzar finds out that Zedekiah was looking -[4044.48 --> 4052.88] towards Egypt for help, and you can read a very rough, very aggressive story in 2 Kings 25, verses 1 to 7, -[4053.06 --> 4059.08] that details the demise of Zedekiah for doing that. Feel free to read it, though if this was a movie, -[4059.08 --> 4067.18] it would likely come with an 18A rating. Basically, I'll sum it up, for two years, Babylon surrounds the -[4067.18 --> 4071.96] city of Jerusalem with their siege weaponry, which again, check verse 17 of our text today, -[4072.22 --> 4077.78] says it would happen. They surround Jerusalem with their siege weaponry and cause a major famine -[4077.78 --> 4083.40] and drought in the city. Eventually, with Jerusalem cut off from the outside world, from all food and -[4083.40 --> 4088.76] water, the Babylonians enter and take over the city. All of Zedekiah's army and family were either -[4088.76 --> 4093.46] killed or scattered, and Zedekiah, for his disobedience to God and his disobedience to -[4093.46 --> 4101.12] Nebuchadnezzar, was tortured and killed. This all comes to fruition in 587 BC, which is three years -[4101.12 --> 4113.48] after this Ezekiel 17 text. Now, in many ways, this is a very hard parable to hear, to read, especially -[4113.48 --> 4118.52] because the warnings that were dished out in the parable were not heeded, and the exile only got -[4118.52 --> 4126.74] worse and worse for God's people. But remember all along that God was telling his people that Babylon -[4126.74 --> 4135.02] was being used as an instrument for his plan. God's plan always plays out. -[4137.34 --> 4146.04] Also, at the end of our text, we hear about this glorious promise. Verses 22 to 24 of our text -[4146.04 --> 4153.28] details that promise. It says this, this is God speaking, he says, I myself will take a shoot from -[4153.28 --> 4158.90] the very top of a cedar and plant it. I will break off a tender sprig from its topmost shoots and -[4158.90 --> 4164.56] plant it on a high and lofty mountain. On the mountain heights of Israel, I will plant it. It -[4164.56 --> 4171.40] will produce branches and bear fruit and become a splendid cedar. Birds of every kind will nest in it. -[4172.26 --> 4176.82] They will find shelter in the shade of its branches. All the trees of the forest will know that I, -[4176.96 --> 4183.16] the Lord, bring down the tall cedar and make the low tree grow tall. I dry up the green tree and make -[4183.16 --> 4192.98] the dry tree flourish. I myself, the Lord says, I myself will take a shoot. He's using the same -[4192.98 --> 4197.48] imagery here as he used in the parable, except instead of an eagle swooping in and planting it, -[4197.56 --> 4203.78] he's going to do it. God's going to do it. He will plant a tender sprig on a mountain and it will turn -[4203.78 --> 4211.44] into a new cedar, a new city. It will be so magnificent, so tall, so beautiful that birds of -[4211.44 --> 4220.74] every kind will nest in its branches. God loves to use tree and vine imagery in his word. And -[4220.74 --> 4226.24] throughout scripture, we see it everywhere. In the Old Testament, if you read 1 Kings 4, verses 25, -[4226.34 --> 4232.04] it talks about how all of Israel and Judah lived in the safety under their own vines and their own -[4232.04 --> 4238.48] fig trees, at least for a while. In Hosea 10, verse 1, it speaks of Israel again and it says, -[4238.48 --> 4244.28] Israel was spreading the vine and it brought forth fruit for himself. Again, at least for a little -[4244.28 --> 4250.06] while. Ezekiel 19, verses 10 and 11, just two chapters after the text that we read today, speaks -[4250.06 --> 4255.40] of branches and vines again when it describes Israel as a vine in your vineyard planted by the water. -[4255.64 --> 4261.86] It was fruitful, full of branches because of abundant water. Its branches were strong, fit for a rule -[4261.86 --> 4269.98] scepter. Once again, at least for a little while. See, in each of those verses, Israel starts off as the -[4269.98 --> 4275.42] vine and the branches that were healthy and strong, but eventually they turn away from God and they start -[4275.42 --> 4282.24] bearing no fruit. They were uprooted, they were destroyed. But the branch and vine imagery changes a -[4282.24 --> 4287.42] little bit in the New Testament. See, it's no longer Israel that's the vine, it's Jesus that becomes the -[4287.42 --> 4294.66] ultimate vine that never weakens. John 15, 1 to 4, I am the vine, I am the true vine, and my Father is the -[4294.66 --> 4301.24] gardener. Remain in me as I remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself, it must remain in the vine. -[4301.58 --> 4308.84] Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. In the promise of Ezekiel 17, Jesus is the tender -[4308.84 --> 4316.24] sprig that gets planted on the high hill. He is the true vine, the only one that never gets uprooted. It is -[4316.24 --> 4322.32] only when we remain in Him that the vine, in that vine, that we produce good fruit. -[4324.10 --> 4330.24] The kingdom of God also gets described as branches. We read in Matthew 13, 31 to 32, -[4330.24 --> 4336.04] the kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed which a man took and planted in its field. Though it is the -[4336.04 --> 4340.92] smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree -[4340.92 --> 4348.30] so that the birds come and perch in its branches. So this kingdom of God becomes this massive tree -[4348.30 --> 4353.92] that the birds come and nest. This is a direct correlation to this parable that we read of in -[4353.92 --> 4362.10] Ezekiel. The tender sprig, Jesus came down and was planted in this world. He lived this perfect life -[4362.10 --> 4368.94] that you and I fail to live each and every day. And then Jesus died a death that you and I deserved. -[4368.94 --> 4374.32] But three days later, He rose again from the grave. He defeated sin and death forever. And now, -[4374.56 --> 4379.76] whoever calls on His name as the Savior and Redeemer of the world can rest in His branches -[4379.76 --> 4386.32] and know that they are saved forevermore. And more than that, when we remain in Him, -[4386.48 --> 4391.54] we have purpose in this world too, to bear His fruit and never wither and never die. -[4391.54 --> 4402.36] Our identities are rooted in Him. Our purpose is found in Him. Our hope is Him. He is the mighty vine -[4402.36 --> 4409.60] which we can root ourselves in. He is the mighty tree who welcomes the birds of all kinds, -[4409.92 --> 4416.90] people of every nation's into. See, this is the glorious promise that is found at the end of Ezekiel 17. -[4416.90 --> 4422.72] And this is the glorious promise that came to fruition already in Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. -[4423.34 --> 4427.28] We have the privilege here today of living on the other side of that promise. -[4429.02 --> 4435.02] We know that Jesus lives. We know that He reigns and we know that we are united in Him, -[4435.34 --> 4441.94] grafted into His vine, bearing fruit in His name. The root has been planted. The vine has extended. -[4441.94 --> 4448.30] The birds have been invited. The victory has been won. God's plan always plays out. -[4451.30 --> 4454.42] However, we are not Israel here. -[4457.22 --> 4462.46] I think oftentimes when we read a text like Ezekiel 17 and we try to apply it to our lives, -[4462.52 --> 4469.04] we think, oh, how am I in exile? How is God using this exile as an instrument of His plan like He did -[4469.04 --> 4475.20] for Israel? How is He using my exile? How is He using my burdens? What are my burdens? And how is -[4475.20 --> 4484.82] God judging me for wandering from His plan? But that's the wrong question. We aren't in exile like -[4484.82 --> 4491.74] Israel was, at least not in the same sense. The Israelites' exile in Babylon was contextual and -[4491.74 --> 4497.68] historically unique to them. God isn't punishing His people here in Langley as part of His plan to -[4497.68 --> 4505.42] redeem us like He was Israel. He's already redeemed us. That's happened already. Christ has already -[4505.42 --> 4512.80] come. Redemption is already here. See, the promise in Ezekiel has already been fulfilled, -[4513.42 --> 4517.94] and it's going to be fulfilled in its completion when Christ comes back again to bring in the new -[4517.94 --> 4526.26] heaven and the new earth. We don't have to fear judgment because Christ already paid the penalty. -[4526.26 --> 4537.08] The judge took the judgment. The Israelites in this text today were trying to circumvent God's judgment -[4537.08 --> 4543.60] to escape exile. The wonderful news for us today is that we don't have to circumvent judgment because -[4543.60 --> 4551.12] there's no judgment to circumvent for believers. Christ took the punishment. Christ bore the judgment. -[4551.12 --> 4565.68] But here's the unique rub here. Because of that, we choose exile. We choose to live in exile. -[4566.90 --> 4571.40] We choose to live in exile? Wait, what? That can't be right. The Israelites didn't choose their exile. -[4571.56 --> 4575.64] God chose that for them, and it was a punishment. It was a judgment. I thought we were free from judgment. -[4575.64 --> 4582.34] Yes, but remember, our context is different than Israel. We're on the other side of this promise. -[4586.00 --> 4590.32] We're going to read a little bit from 1 Peter today. I loved it because we used it as our assurance -[4590.32 --> 4595.50] this morning, at least parts of it, but look at 1 Peter chapters 1 and 2 for me today. Right out of -[4595.50 --> 4602.52] the gate, 1 Peter 1 verse 1, to God's elect, exiles scattered throughout the provinces who have been -[4602.52 --> 4607.52] chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father to be obedient to Jesus Christ and sprinkled -[4607.52 --> 4612.64] with His blood. Grace and peace be yours in abundance. We are addressed as exiles right out -[4612.64 --> 4618.56] of the gate. A little bit later, verses 17 and 18. Since you are called on a father, or since you call -[4618.56 --> 4624.72] on a father who judges each person's work importantly, live out your time as foreigners here, can be -[4624.72 --> 4630.90] translated as exiles, in reverent fear. For you know that it was not with perishable things such as gold or -[4630.90 --> 4635.92] silver that you were redeemed from the empty way of life, handed down to you from your ancestors, -[4636.46 --> 4644.16] but with the precious blood of Jesus Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. And then one more -[4644.16 --> 4650.40] chunk, just a little bit later, over in chapter 2, verses 11 and 12. Dear friends, I urge you as -[4650.40 --> 4658.62] foreigners and exiles to abstain from sinful desires which wage war against your soul. Live such good lives -[4658.62 --> 4664.04] among the pagans that though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify -[4664.04 --> 4672.58] God on the day He visits us. Peter is telling us that we are called to live our lives as exiles here -[4672.58 --> 4679.32] on earth, not trusting in perishable things such as gold or silver, but abstaining from the comforts -[4679.32 --> 4685.72] of this world and living such model lives, both in word and deed, so that those who do not call Christ -[4685.72 --> 4691.54] as their Savior will have nothing bad to say about us and will come to desire the life-giving source -[4691.54 --> 4702.88] of the vine. We do not fear judgment, but we do choose exile, exile from the comforts of the world, -[4703.56 --> 4715.20] remaining in His branches. We abide in Him as fruit-bearing branches. We don't abide in the world, -[4715.20 --> 4722.82] we abide in the word, and that makes us exiles, strangers, ambassadors for the kingdom of God. -[4723.62 --> 4730.54] See, there's many, many who desire to reach out, to lean into, to grow towards the comforts and -[4730.54 --> 4739.20] distractions of this world. For them, there's always another eagle, but the world offers this comfort -[4739.20 --> 4747.44] that's false and idols and distractions that are so compelling to reach towards. But Jesus changes -[4747.44 --> 4755.96] everything. Once we know the true power of salvation that comes from the gospel truth of Jesus' life, -[4756.10 --> 4761.18] death, and resurrection, we don't have to fear death. We don't have to fear judgment. -[4761.18 --> 4771.76] We get to live for eternal glory, and we choose exile. We choose to be grafted into Jesus, not grafted -[4771.76 --> 4778.88] into the world anymore. And so may we abide in the life-giving branches of our Lord, attached to the -[4778.88 --> 4786.80] promise that He is the vine. We remain in Him. We are united with Him, and we fear no judgment. We choose -[4786.80 --> 4796.90] exile with Jesus instead of the eagles of this world. Because the root's been planted, the vine has -[4796.90 --> 4803.00] extended, the birds have been invited, and the victory over sin and death has been won. In our case, -[4803.12 --> 4810.66] church, there is no other eagle. If you know that Jesus' life, death, and resurrection has changed -[4810.66 --> 4819.54] everything, then you can rest assured knowing that you are part of God's eternal kingdom plan all along. -[4820.40 --> 4829.20] And that's the greatest news ever, because God's plan always plays out. Amen? Let's pray. -[4833.54 --> 4840.34] Father in heaven, God, we know that you are a sovereign God ruling over all things. -[4841.06 --> 4847.44] We know that you have had a plan all along to save and redeem creation. We know that that plan -[4847.44 --> 4854.34] started with Abraham and moved through a nation, became this nation of Israel, and led us to Jesus, -[4855.34 --> 4861.06] who lived and died and rose again, ascended to heaven, and now seated, intermediating on our behalf. -[4862.50 --> 4867.22] Lord, that plan is always played out, and we know that you will come again to bring in the new heaven -[4867.22 --> 4872.44] and the new earth. Lord, we know that if we believe that, if we believe in your Son, -[4873.26 --> 4878.76] that we are saved, that we are grafted into the vine, and we bear fruit in his name. -[4879.94 --> 4887.78] Lord, thank you for that plan. And God, in our day to day, as we go from this place into our weeks, -[4887.78 --> 4893.22] whether that's to work, to school, in our homes, on our soccer fields, or baseball diamonds, -[4893.48 --> 4901.16] wherever we find ourselves, Lord, may we know that we are a part of that plan. -[4901.16 --> 4910.70] And may we respond in obedience. May we respond in grateful obedience to how you call us to live -[4910.70 --> 4918.60] our lives, not to save us, but because we are saved. And may the world around us know that you -[4918.60 --> 4925.82] are God by what we say and what we do, and may they be drawn to you, the vine, as well. Lord, -[4925.82 --> 4928.86] we pray this in your Son's precious and holy name. Amen. -[4928.86 --> 4928.96] Amen. -[4928.96 --> 4928.98] Amen. -[4955.82 --> 4956.56] Amen. -[4985.82 --> 4992.44] My sin weighed upon your shoulders -[4992.44 --> 4997.14] My soul now to stand -[4997.14 --> 5004.00] So what can I say? -[5006.14 --> 5010.50] And what can I do? -[5010.50 --> 5019.96] I offer this heart, O God -[5019.96 --> 5025.50] Completely to you -[5026.14 --> 5034.48] So I'll walk upon salvation -[5034.48 --> 5041.80] Your spirit alive in me -[5041.80 --> 5047.94] My life to declare your promise -[5047.94 --> 5051.58] My soul now to stand -[5051.58 --> 5057.04] So what can I say? -[5061.04 --> 5064.04] And what can I do? -[5064.04 --> 5073.50] I offer this heart, O God -[5073.50 --> 5078.50] Completely to you -[5078.50 --> 5083.50] So what can I say? -[5083.50 --> 5089.96] What can I do? -[5092.96 --> 5097.96] I offer this heart, O God -[5097.96 --> 5102.96] Completely to you -[5102.96 --> 5117.16] So I'll stand -[5117.16 --> 5120.96] With heart's high and heart abandoned -[5120.96 --> 5127.42] In awe of the one who gave it all -[5127.42 --> 5132.12] I'll stand, my soul, Lord -[5132.12 --> 5134.46] To you surrendered all -[5134.46 --> 5136.88] My hand is yours -[5136.88 --> 5142.70] And I'll stand -[5142.70 --> 5146.42] With heart's high and heart abandoned -[5146.42 --> 5153.26] In awe of the one who gave it all -[5153.26 --> 5159.26] I'll stand, my soul, Lord -[5159.26 --> 5161.30] You surrendered all -[5161.30 --> 5162.28] I'll stand, my soul, Lord -[5162.28 --> 5163.42] To you surrendered all -[5163.42 --> 5167.40] I'll stand, my soul, Lord -[5167.40 --> 5172.50] to you surrendered all -[5172.50 --> 5186.50] is -[5202.50 --> 5210.66] and so as we go from this place maybe remember those promises and the awe of what jesus -[5210.66 --> 5216.42] accomplished for all of us if you are in need of prayer this morning there will be prayer partners -[5216.42 --> 5220.74] available here off to the side and i believe in the back as well and also remember that connect -[5220.74 --> 5225.94] booth has a little bit of sign up necessary for that awesome community food bank drive and -[5225.94 --> 5231.06] festival happening july 13th and potentially for a new children's worship time coordinator -[5231.06 --> 5238.26] if you've got it on your hearts to do that as we go from this place please hear god's parting -[5238.26 --> 5246.90] blessing the priestly blessing from numbers six the lord bless you and keep you the lord make his face -[5246.90 --> 5254.42] shine upon you and be gracious to you the lord turn his face towards you and give you his peace -[5254.42 --> 5256.66] and all god's people said amen -[5261.06 --> 5272.26] night -[5272.26 --> 5283.14] In Christ alone my hope is found -[5283.14 --> 5287.88] He is my life, my strength, my song -[5287.88 --> 5293.30] His cornerstone, His solid ground -[5293.30 --> 5297.92] Burned through the fiercest drought and storm -[5297.92 --> 5302.98] What fights of love, what depths of peace -[5302.98 --> 5307.96] When fears are still, my striving cease -[5307.96 --> 5313.26] My love on earth, my all in all -[5313.26 --> 5317.88] Here in the love of Christ I stand -[5327.92 --> 5332.98] In Christ alone who took on flesh -[5332.98 --> 5337.60] Fall is the God in helpless pain -[5337.60 --> 5341.56] His gift of love and righteousness -[5341.56 --> 5347.32] Scored by the ones He gave to save -[5347.32 --> 5352.34] Till on their cross as Jesus died -[5352.34 --> 5357.40] No wrath of God was satisfied -[5357.40 --> 5362.70] For every sin on Him was laid -[5362.70 --> 5368.40] Here in the death of Christ I live -[5368.40 --> 5382.40] There in the ground His body lay -[5382.40 --> 5387.46] Light of the world by darkness slain -[5387.46 --> 5392.64] Then bursting forth in glorious day -[5392.64 --> 5396.40] Up from the pretty rose again -[5396.40 --> 5401.46] And as He stands in victory -[5401.46 --> 5406.40] Sin's curse has lost its grip on me -[5407.16 --> 5412.40] For I am His and He is mine -[5412.40 --> 5417.72] Father, the precious blood of Christ -[5417.72 --> 5432.48] No guilt in life, no fear in death -[5432.48 --> 5437.44] This is the power of Christ in me -[5437.44 --> 5442.72] From life's worst try to find a way -[5442.72 --> 5446.78] Jesus, defense my destiny -[5446.78 --> 5452.88] No power of hell, no scheme of man -[5452.88 --> 5457.86] In ever love He brought His hand -[5457.86 --> 5462.78] To leave His hand for those below -[5462.78 --> 5467.72] Here in the power of Christ I stand -[5467.72 --> 5472.72] No power of hell, no scheme of man -[5472.72 --> 5473.60] No power of hell, no scheme of man -[5473.60 --> 5478.72] Can ever block me from His hand -[5478.72 --> 5484.72] Till He returns or calls me home -[5484.72 --> 5490.72] Here in the power of Christ I stand -[5490.72 --> 5500.78] In ever love of Him -[5500.78 --> 5501.72] I fall in and of in ever love -[5501.72 --> 5504.66] Now I can ever hold on to Him -[5504.68 --> 5510.26] For for for for For for for for for for for for for for all -[5510.26 --> 5540.24] Thank you. -[5540.26 --> 5570.24] Thank you. -[5570.26 --> 5600.24] Thank you. -[5600.26 --> 5630.24] Thank you. -[5630.26 --> 5660.24] Thank you. -[5660.26 --> 5690.24] Thank you. -[5690.26 --> 5720.24] Thank you. -[5720.26 --> 5750.24] Thank you. -[5750.26 --> 5780.24] Thank you. -[5780.26 --> 5810.24] Thank you. -[5810.26 --> 5840.24] Thank you. -[5840.26 --> 5870.24] Thank you. -[5870.26 --> 5872.26] Thank you. -[5900.26 --> 5902.26] Thank you. -[5930.26 --> 5932.26] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, June 2, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, June 2, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ad7d404680aa137f716d7370622654bce060bf71..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, June 2, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,97 +0,0 @@ -• The glory and majesty of God's unfolding plan -• Faith and trust in God's promises -• Redemption through Jesus Christ -• Worship and praise of God as Redeemer -• God's love and provision in every need -• Call to worship and thanksgiving -• Introduction by Kevin Lobert, youth pastor at Langley Emanuel CRC -• Announcement of Reactivate Youth Conference in September with 200+ youth from multiple churches attending -• Call for volunteers to help with conference setup and operations -• July camp announcement: Christian Reformed Church has a camp at Warren Beach Camp in Stanwood from July 4-7, open to all ages -• The Netherlands is mentioned in relation to completing a day of Worm Beach. -• Youth activities are discussed, including a coffee event and a presentation by Jennifer from Safe Families. -• A new closed-loop sound system is being tested. -• There's a warning about not touching wires running on the floor. -• Pastor Chris leads God's greeting during the service. -• Discussion of a hymn or worship song, "How Can I Keep from Singing Your Praise" -• Testimony of being loved by the King and wanting to sing -• Assurance that God is present in all circumstances: doubt, fear, failure, silence, questions -• Promise of God's presence and guidance through Jesus Christ -• Invitation for a group of children to come up on stage and perform the song "My Lighthouse" -• Performance of the song "My Lighthouse" with actions and participation from the congregation -• Lighthouse as a symbol of peace and guidance -• Separation from God's love despite circumstances or failures -• Confidence in God's presence and power through scripture (Romans 8, Matthew) -• Prayer for celebration of God's love and presence -• Acknowledgment of need for God's guidance and righteousness -• Repetition of theme: "I need you" and "My one defense, my righteousness" -• Introduction to a church installation ceremony -• Gratitude and thanksgiving for outgoing office bearers -• Explanation of the roles of admin elders, pastoral elders, and deacons -• Ordination and installation of new office bearers (admin elder, pastoral elder, two deacons) -• Affirmation of acceptance of responsibilities through questioning and response -• Prayer of ordination and commissioning -• Scriptures are given to Clary as admin elder and Paul as pastoral elder for guidance -• Responsibilities of office bearers: encouraging others, praying continually, being mastered by the Lord -• Deacons' responsibilities: holding deep truths with a clear conscience, serving the church with the spirit and wisdom -• Congregation is charged to receive office bearers as Christ's gift, hold them in honor, and take their counsel seriously -• Special offering for benevolence, highlighting the importance of knowing names and faces behind the giving -• Collection of baby bottles for Safe Families campaign -• Discussion of Jesus as a source of strength -• Explanation of what it means to be part of a "family" -• Importance of relationships and getting to know others -• Introduction to the Safe Families Lower Mainland program and its mission to support families in crisis -• Personal story of Jennifer Gamache's experience with the organization -• The speaker shares their personal experience of receiving support from a community, which led them to find Christ -• They discuss how Safe Families provides temporary support for families in crisis, allowing kids and parents to stay together -• Examples are given of volunteers making a significant impact on families' lives, including fixing appliances and providing companionship -• The speaker emphasizes the importance of community and relationships in helping families overcome difficulties -• Volunteer roles within Safe Families are outlined as hosting kids temporarily, being a family friend, supplying resources, or acting as family coaches -• The organization's goal is to provide hope and healing through relationships built on Christian love -• Prayers for a new Lord's Day and celebration of God's name -• Confession of sin and thanksgiving for Jesus' sacrifice -• Installation of new office bearers and request for guidance and strength -• Upcoming synod meeting and prayer for delegates -• Praise for Safe Families Canada and their work -• Prayers for congregation members with health challenges -• Prayers for students, teachers, and those affected by floods in Brazil -• Prayers for war zones around the world -• Prayer for Pastor Chris as he leads the study of Romans -• Paul warns the Romans against those who cause divisions and obstacles contrary to his teachings -• The God of peace will soon crush Satan under their feet, implying ultimate victory over evil forces -• Greetings are sent from Timothy, Lucius, Jason, Sosipater, Tertius, Gaius, Erastus, and Quartus -• Paul lists his missionary team, including Timothy and other co-workers -• The historical context of the letter is discussed, with scholars agreeing on a date between 55-58 AD -• Archaeological evidence supports the names mentioned in the letter, such as Erastus being listed as director of public works -• Paul's warning to watch out for those who cause divisions and obstacles is repeated -• The tendency to follow and teach contrary to a leader's original message -• The dangers of imposing new rules or regulations on followers, such as legalism -• The subtlety of new social pressures that can become unspoken laws -• The distinction between the gospel and imposed rules, with the gospel offering freedom in Christ Jesus through faith and union with Him -• Double imputation: sins handed over to Jesus who bore punishment on the cross -• Salvation by faith in Jesus, not through works or earning it -• Union with Jesus transforms reality and gives power to live obedient life -• Gospel is the power of God unto salvation, transforming minds and behavior -• Christians can overcome addictions, heal relationships, and resist temptation through Holy Spirit's power -• False teaching: some say people don't need to change or be transformed -• The importance of living a God-filled, Spirit-powered life -• The dangers of settling for a comfortable, superficial faith -• The need to be transformed by Jesus Christ and familiar with his word -• The gospel as the foundation of true love and obedience -• The warning against false teachers who serve their own appetites rather than Christ -• The importance of being wise about what is good and innocent about evil -• The call to go deeply rooted in God's word and cling to Jesus in union with him. -• Prayer and worship -• Promises of transformation by the Spirit -• Union with Jesus and its impact on life -• Trust in Jesus' blood and righteousness -• Song: "My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less" -• Encouragement to stay after service for community, refreshments, and prayer -• Invitation to learn about Safe Families Canada -• The protection and guidance of God -• The blessing and peace of God -• Jesus Christ as the Lion of Judah and the Lamb who was slain -• Jesus' reign at the end of the age -• Jesus' ruling power and authority over all nations and people -• The importance of hearing and proclaiming Jesus' message -• A call to go in peace, love, and serve the Lord \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, June 2, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, June 2, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6c034c70f2fa00367b14dc156a4ed65e6b617361..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, June 2, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1300 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 3.16] The glorious unfolding -[3.16 --> 7.64] Just you wait and see -[7.64 --> 12.46] And you will be amazed -[12.46 --> 15.96] We've just got to believe -[15.96 --> 20.00] The story is so far from over -[20.00 --> 24.00] So hold on to every promise -[24.56 --> 27.66] God has made to us -[27.66 --> 32.36] And watch this glorious unfolding -[32.36 --> 40.96] We were made to run -[40.96 --> 43.08] Through fields of forever -[43.08 --> 47.06] Singing songs to our Savior and King -[47.06 --> 49.40] So let us remember -[49.40 --> 51.48] This life we're living -[51.48 --> 53.56] Is just the beginning -[53.56 --> 55.78] Of the beginning -[55.78 --> 61.54] Of this glorious unfolding -[61.54 --> 66.14] We will watch and see -[66.14 --> 69.78] And we will be amazed -[69.78 --> 74.40] If we just keep on believing -[74.40 --> 78.36] The story is so far from over -[78.36 --> 83.06] And hold on to every promise -[83.06 --> 86.06] God has made to us -[86.06 --> 90.72] We'll see the glorious unfolding -[90.72 --> 99.12] Just watch and see -[99.12 --> 101.22] Unfounding -[101.22 --> 107.80] This is just the beginning -[107.80 --> 109.92] Of the beginning -[109.92 --> 109.98] Of the beginning -[109.98 --> 111.58] I'm voting -[111.58 --> 125.28] Of the beginning -[125.28 --> 129.28] Of the beginning -[129.28 --> 131.08] Of the beginning -[131.08 --> 132.34] Of the beginning -[132.34 --> 133.04] Of the beginning -[133.04 --> 148.04] You traded riches -[148.04 --> 153.04] To run to my rescue -[153.04 --> 157.74] Oh my Redeemer -[157.74 --> 162.52] You take the pieces -[162.52 --> 167.96] And turn them to praises -[167.96 --> 172.46] Oh my Redeemer -[172.46 --> 179.80] Oh my Redeemer -[179.80 --> 185.56] Love I cannot deny -[185.56 --> 189.74] Sure as the morning light -[189.74 --> 194.44] Jesus my Redeemer -[194.44 --> 205.70] You paid my ransom -[205.70 --> 210.94] You chose to suffer -[210.94 --> 215.40] Oh my Redeemer -[215.40 --> 217.22] Oh my Redeemer -[217.22 --> 221.22] Oh my Redeemer -[221.22 --> 222.22] Oh my Redeemer -[222.22 --> 223.22] Oh my Redeemer -[223.22 --> 226.22] Oh my Redeemer -[226.22 --> 228.22] Love I cannot deny -[228.22 --> 232.22] Sure as the morning light -[232.90 --> 236.22] Jesus my Redeemer -[236.22 --> 238.04] My Redeemer -[238.04 --> 243.04] Now I'm not ashamed -[243.04 --> 247.22] To you be the highest praise -[247.22 --> 252.04] Jesus my Redeemer -[252.04 --> 255.04] My Redeemer -[255.04 --> 269.98] No other one -[269.98 --> 272.66] So glorious -[272.66 --> 280.30] You outshine the sun -[280.30 --> 284.38] No other love -[284.38 --> 287.12] Like Jesus -[287.12 --> 294.74] You outshine the sun -[294.74 --> 302.18] You outshine the sun -[302.18 --> 309.00] You outshine the sun -[309.00 --> 315.00] Yeah you outshine the sun -[315.00 --> 317.00] Yeah you outshine the sun -[317.00 --> 319.00] Yeah -[319.00 --> 328.82] You outshine the sun -[328.82 --> 329.82] You outshine the sun -[329.82 --> 329.88] You outshine the sun -[329.88 --> 330.88] You outshine the sun -[330.88 --> 331.82] You outshine the sun -[331.82 --> 332.82] You outshine the sun -[332.82 --> 333.82] Yeah -[333.82 --> 335.82] Love I cannot deny -[335.82 --> 338.32] Sure as the morning light -[338.32 --> 340.14] Jesus my Redeemer -[340.14 --> 344.14] Jesus my Redeemer -[344.14 --> 345.14] Oh my Redeemer -[345.14 --> 347.14] Oh my Redeemer -[347.14 --> 350.14] Now I'm not ashamed -[350.14 --> 351.14] Now I'm not ashamed -[351.14 --> 354.14] So you be the highest praise -[354.14 --> 357.14] Jesus my Redeemer -[357.14 --> 359.14] My Redeemer -[359.14 --> 361.14] My Redeemer -[361.14 --> 362.14] My Redeemer -[362.14 --> 375.46] My Redeemer -[375.46 --> 379.22] Do you shine -[379.22 --> 380.72] How you shine -[380.72 --> 386.24] My Redeemer -[386.24 --> 386.96] When you shine -[386.96 --> 388.72] My Redeemer -[388.72 --> 418.70] Thank you. -[418.72 --> 448.70] Thank you. -[448.72 --> 478.70] Thank you. -[478.72 --> 508.70] Thank you. -[508.72 --> 510.72] Thank you. -[538.72 --> 540.72] Thank you. -[568.72 --> 570.72] Thank you. -[570.72 --> 572.72] Thank you. -[572.72 --> 574.72] Thank you. -[574.72 --> 576.72] Thank you. -[576.72 --> 580.72] Thank you. -[580.72 --> 584.30] I need -[584.30 --> 600.34] You give me everything, You give me everything, You give me everything I need. -[600.34 --> 616.14] You give me everything, You give me everything, You give me everything I need. -[616.14 --> 641.20] You give me everything, You give me everything, You give me everything. -[641.20 --> 648.74] Everything I need -[671.20 --> 699.82] Come Thou Fount of every blessing -[699.82 --> 705.02] Tune my heart to sing Thy grace -[705.02 --> 710.48] Streams of mercy never ceasing -[710.48 --> 715.60] Call for songs of loudest praise -[715.60 --> 721.02] Teach me some melodious sonnet -[721.02 --> 726.16] Sung by flaming tongues above -[726.16 --> 731.74] Praise the mount I'm fixed upon it -[731.74 --> 736.66] Mount of Thy redeeming love -[736.66 --> 744.16] Here I raise my Ebenezer -[744.80 --> 749.44] Hither by Thy help I come -[749.44 --> 755.32] And I hope by Thy good pleasure -[755.32 --> 760.14] Safely to arrive at home -[760.14 --> 765.92] Jesus sought me when a stranger -[765.92 --> 770.44] Wandering from the fold of God -[770.44 --> 776.60] He to rescue me from danger -[776.60 --> 781.44] Interposed His precious blood -[781.44 --> 789.94] How Your kindness yet pursues me -[789.94 --> 800.52] Now you're in the middle -[800.52 --> 802.48] Good morning, everyone. -[803.02 --> 806.52] Good morning, everyone. -[806.52 --> 807.52] That was not bad. Not bad. -[807.58 --> 808.28] Good morning, everyone. -[808.42 --> 811.50] Welcome to Langley Emanuel CRC this morning. -[811.90 --> 813.04] My name is Kevin Lobert. -[813.10 --> 814.48] I'm the youth pastor here, -[814.84 --> 817.22] and it's great to see so many of you here today. -[817.22 --> 819.68] Before we get going started with the service, -[819.74 --> 821.94] I've got just a few announcements here on my phone. -[823.16 --> 827.80] Announcement number one is reactivate a youth conference, -[827.90 --> 831.34] a reformed youth conference that we've been doing for the last decade. -[831.48 --> 836.08] It's once again being hosted by this church come September. -[836.26 --> 839.70] So September 6, 7, 8, we'll have about 200 youth -[839.70 --> 843.64] from anywhere between 10 and 15 churches in B.C., -[843.64 --> 845.64] possibly Alberta, possibly Washington, -[845.64 --> 847.06] descending on this place. -[847.20 --> 848.86] We're very excited about that. -[849.38 --> 851.56] But in order for that conference, -[851.68 --> 853.52] that three-day conference to run well, -[853.88 --> 855.82] like last year, we need a lot of volunteers. -[856.36 --> 860.10] And that volunteer sign-up is coming out this week. -[860.22 --> 862.80] I'm not sure if it's going to be today or Tuesday, -[863.10 --> 864.26] but keep your eyes open. -[864.42 --> 865.24] It'll be coming out. -[865.80 --> 867.06] There's lots of ways to serve. -[867.12 --> 870.18] If you want to help prepare, clean up meals, -[870.66 --> 871.86] help out with hosting, -[872.10 --> 874.08] help out with parking or overnight security, -[874.08 --> 877.02] we need people helping us move chairs around -[877.02 --> 878.74] and setting up various canopies. -[879.12 --> 882.32] We need some people to pick up stuff from turkeys -[882.32 --> 884.80] or from Willoughby or from Buns Master. -[884.96 --> 887.18] So that list will come out with all of the opportunities, -[887.34 --> 888.82] with all of the times we need people. -[889.18 --> 891.64] And I really, really, really invite you all -[891.64 --> 894.92] to look at that list and find a place where you can help out. -[895.42 --> 899.16] Last year, this church showed up in droves for this event, -[899.16 --> 900.32] and it was so wonderful. -[900.32 --> 902.16] So I do encourage you to take a look at that list -[902.16 --> 904.02] and see how you can help out with that. -[904.30 --> 906.36] I'm going to invite Aaron up front now with me. -[906.46 --> 908.18] He's going to be the face of this next announcement -[908.18 --> 911.60] because if I'm the face of announcements, nothing happens. -[911.90 --> 913.82] But if Aaron's the face of announcements, -[914.40 --> 916.06] we're going to get people, I think. -[916.58 --> 918.12] Aaron, what's happening in July? -[919.66 --> 920.26] Good morning. -[920.48 --> 922.44] July 4th through the 7th, -[923.70 --> 925.16] the, I think I've said this before, -[925.16 --> 928.22] but the Christian Reformed Church has a camp -[928.22 --> 930.00] at Warren Beach Camp in Stanwood. -[931.22 --> 934.92] I've been going for, since I was 12, about. -[935.32 --> 936.88] So 30-some years. -[937.84 --> 939.62] And when I was a kid, -[939.68 --> 941.84] there was a lot of Canadians that showed up, a lot. -[942.78 --> 945.92] And now there's not so many. -[946.76 --> 948.24] And so I'd love, Kevin's going to be there. -[948.24 --> 952.16] Kevin and Josh and Heather are all going to be there. -[952.68 --> 954.26] And, oh, Mark. -[955.00 --> 956.12] Oh, yeah. -[956.56 --> 957.76] Margaret, yeah, yeah. -[958.08 --> 959.18] Margaret's going to be there. -[959.44 --> 960.34] Freddie will be there. -[961.24 --> 962.60] Yeah, there's a lot of people. -[963.30 --> 966.80] And there is July 4th through 7th. -[967.04 --> 967.84] Registration's open. -[968.50 --> 971.08] You can Google Cascade Family Bible Camp -[971.08 --> 972.04] to find out about it. -[972.12 --> 975.56] There's stuff for all ages from, you know, -[975.56 --> 976.82] if you want to get rid of your kids, -[976.82 --> 979.14] you could do that kind of here. -[979.70 --> 983.40] And so from nursery all the way up to retired age, -[983.52 --> 985.62] sports, games. -[987.16 --> 991.14] Great speaker this year coming from Michigan, I think. -[992.32 --> 992.94] Holland, Michigan. -[993.36 --> 993.58] Yep. -[993.80 --> 994.46] Thank you. -[995.10 --> 996.56] I have to read the flyer better. -[997.92 --> 999.64] And, yeah, if you have any questions, -[999.84 --> 1003.46] my kids have always enjoyed it, -[1003.46 --> 1004.64] even as they're growing older. -[1004.80 --> 1006.06] One year we were going to the Netherlands. -[1006.82 --> 1008.94] And they wanted to postpone their trip to the Netherlands -[1008.94 --> 1011.44] so they could finish one more day of Worm Beach. -[1011.88 --> 1013.24] And I said, we can't do that. -[1013.78 --> 1016.34] And so, but Kevin's done a great job with the youth. -[1017.04 --> 1019.94] And, yeah, if you have any questions, find me or Kevin. -[1020.84 --> 1021.60] It's fun. -[1021.70 --> 1023.72] If you can't come for the whole weekend, come for a day. -[1023.98 --> 1024.86] Just show up for a day. -[1025.54 --> 1026.02] It's fun. -[1026.02 --> 1027.72] Anything else? -[1027.90 --> 1028.48] Did I miss, Elise? -[1029.28 --> 1029.60] Okay. -[1030.40 --> 1031.06] It's fun. -[1031.94 --> 1032.44] Thanks, Aaron. -[1032.48 --> 1033.02] It is fun. -[1033.14 --> 1033.70] Do come out. -[1033.82 --> 1034.32] Take a look. -[1034.68 --> 1035.96] It's a great time for sure. -[1036.60 --> 1038.48] A couple quick hitter announcements. -[1038.70 --> 1040.14] Today, youth, we've got youth coffee. -[1040.26 --> 1042.02] After the service, it'll be at the Porter's House. -[1042.44 --> 1043.68] Address is in your emails. -[1043.78 --> 1044.34] Give that a look. -[1044.48 --> 1045.20] That should be fun. -[1045.94 --> 1048.16] This one's an interesting one. -[1048.48 --> 1051.42] We are testing out a new closed loop sound system today. -[1051.80 --> 1052.74] So that's happening. -[1052.82 --> 1053.82] We're going to see how that works. -[1054.86 --> 1056.82] There's a wire running on the floor here. -[1056.92 --> 1059.72] This is one of those announcements that I feel a little bit silly saying. -[1059.92 --> 1061.64] But there's a wire running on the floor here. -[1062.10 --> 1063.42] Please don't pull the wire. -[1064.16 --> 1065.28] Like, don't touch the wires. -[1065.42 --> 1067.38] We have three rules in youth. -[1067.44 --> 1068.52] Youth, what's rule number one? -[1068.58 --> 1068.78] Anyone? -[1070.20 --> 1071.10] Don't be dumb. -[1071.84 --> 1074.20] This feels like that fits in that category. -[1074.20 --> 1076.28] Okay, don't pull the wires. -[1076.40 --> 1078.24] Hopefully, that closed loop system works well. -[1078.34 --> 1079.46] We'll get that up and running soon. -[1079.78 --> 1080.46] That will be good. -[1080.86 --> 1087.62] Finally, in the middle of the service, we have an announcement on a presentation from Jennifer from Safe Families. -[1087.72 --> 1092.44] So she's going to be introducing herself, doing a little presentation from Safe Families during the service, -[1092.48 --> 1100.04] and then afterwards, having a bigger, probably more robust presentation out in the multipurpose room that we're all invited to join for that as well. -[1100.04 --> 1104.02] So if that's something that you're interested or curious about, please come out after the service. -[1104.20 --> 1105.18] And hear that as well. -[1105.32 --> 1107.84] I'm going to invite Pastor Chris forward right now. -[1108.14 --> 1111.36] He is going to lead us in God's greeting this morning. -[1115.78 --> 1116.52] Thanks, Kevin. -[1116.78 --> 1121.38] It is good to be with you all and in the presence of our God together. -[1121.38 --> 1127.10] I'm going to invite you to stand as you're able and where you are, and we're going to be greeted by God. -[1127.24 --> 1133.12] And then following God's greeting, we have the opportunity to share that greeting around as well. -[1133.60 --> 1140.38] And you can do that by shaking hands, by nodding your head and just saying hello. -[1140.38 --> 1143.04] You can do that by passing the peace of Christ. -[1143.64 --> 1148.48] And so I encourage you, after receiving God's greeting, to greet those around you in our worship together. -[1149.14 --> 1150.98] Receive the greeting of our God. -[1151.86 --> 1158.94] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, His Son, and our Savior, -[1159.38 --> 1161.82] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[1163.04 --> 1163.44] Amen. -[1163.44 --> 1163.58] Amen. -[1165.58 --> 1166.20] Good morning. -[1166.36 --> 1166.90] Peace of Christ. -[1167.30 --> 1168.10] Peace of Christ. -[1170.38 --> 1200.36] Peace of Christ. -[1200.38 --> 1215.64] Our call to worship this morning is coming to us from Psalm 108, where it says, -[1216.10 --> 1218.48] My heart, O God, is steadfast. -[1218.78 --> 1221.98] I will sing and make music with all my soul. -[1222.96 --> 1224.56] Awake, harp and lyre. -[1224.88 --> 1226.44] I will awaken the dawn. -[1226.44 --> 1229.18] I will praise you, Lord, among the nations. -[1230.06 --> 1232.46] I will sing of you among the peoples. -[1232.66 --> 1235.78] For great is your love, higher than the heavens. -[1236.32 --> 1238.80] Your faithfulness reaches to the skies. -[1239.70 --> 1241.86] Be exalted, O God, above the heavens. -[1242.14 --> 1244.50] Let your glory be over all the earth. -[1245.08 --> 1248.26] Let's join our voices to sing with our whole soul, -[1248.44 --> 1252.72] to sing of God's great love, a love that's higher than the heavens. -[1252.72 --> 1263.10] 21 Idol -[1263.10 --> 1263.46] donde no 하나감이 -[1263.46 --> 1264.60] than the heavens. -[1264.60 --> 1266.04] gio be an hour -[1266.04 --> 1267.06] number 215, -[1267.06 --> 1272.24] There is an endless song -[1272.24 --> 1282.24] Echoes in my soul, I hear the music ring. -[1282.24 --> 1295.24] And though other storms may come, I am holding on to the rock I play. -[1295.24 --> 1304.24] How can I keep from singing your praise? -[1304.24 --> 1312.24] How can I ever say enough? How amazing is your love? -[1312.24 --> 1318.24] How can I keep from shouting your name? -[1318.24 --> 1333.24] I know I am loved by the King, and it makes my heart want to sing. -[1333.24 --> 1347.24] I will lift my eyes in the darkest night, for I know my Savior lives. -[1347.24 --> 1362.24] And I will walk with you, knowing you'll see me through, and sing the songs you give. -[1362.24 --> 1369.24] How can I keep from singing your praise? -[1369.24 --> 1377.24] How can I ever say enough? How amazing is your love? -[1377.24 --> 1383.24] How can I keep from shouting your name? -[1383.24 --> 1394.24] I know I am loved by the King, and it makes my heart want to sing. -[1394.24 --> 1409.12] I can sing in the troubled times, sing when I win. I can sing when I lose my step and fall down again. -[1409.12 --> 1423.12] I can sing as you pick me up, sing as you're there. I can sing as you hear me, Lord, when I call to you in prayer. -[1423.12 --> 1437.32] I can sing with my last breath. I can sing for I know that I'll sing when the angels and the saints are on the throne. -[1439.12 --> 1459.02] How can I keep from singing your praise? How can I ever say enough? How amazing is your love? How can I keep from shouting your name? -[1459.02 --> 1483.02] I know I am loved by the King and it makes my heart want to sing. -[1483.02 --> 1486.02] далеко -[1486.02 --> 1516.00] Thank you. -[1516.02 --> 1528.32] Jesus, hope of the nations, Jesus, comfort for all who mourn. -[1528.32 --> 1533.70] You are the songs of heaven so honored. -[1536.46 --> 1544.60] Jesus, light in the darkness, Jesus, truth in each circumstance. -[1546.02 --> 1552.02] You are the source of heaven's light on earth. -[1552.98 --> 1557.14] In history you lived and died. -[1557.56 --> 1562.02] You broke the chains you rose to life. -[1562.02 --> 1592.02] -[1592.02 --> 1595.56] Living for all who will receive. -[1597.56 --> 1600.02] Lord, we believe. -[1600.02 --> 1617.02] Jesus, hope of the nations, Jesus, comfort for all who mourn. -[1617.02 --> 1625.06] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth. -[1625.28 --> 1633.74] Jesus, light in the darkness, Jesus, truth in each circumstance. -[1633.74 --> 1640.74] You are the source of heaven's light on earth. -[1640.74 --> 1645.96] In history you lived and died. -[1645.96 --> 1651.90] You broke the chains you rose to life. -[1651.90 --> 1656.02] You are the hope living in us. -[1656.02 --> 1660.32] You are the rock in whom we trust. -[1660.96 --> 1666.90] You are the light shining for all the world to see. -[1666.90 --> 1673.10] You rose from the dead, conquering fear. -[1673.10 --> 1677.42] Our prince of peace drawing us near. -[1677.42 --> 1683.90] Jesus, our hope living for all who will receive. -[1683.90 --> 1687.90] Lord, we believe. -[1687.90 --> 1691.90] Lord, we believe. -[1691.90 --> 1696.90] Lord, we believe. -[1696.90 --> 1698.90] Lord, we believe. -[1698.90 --> 1702.76] I invite you to be seated. -[1704.76 --> 1707.58] Our confession today comes from Matthew 28. -[1707.58 --> 1713.48] And surely I am with you always to the very end of the age. -[1714.40 --> 1717.88] These are the last words of Jesus to his disciples. -[1718.30 --> 1720.54] A promise we can take with us. -[1721.24 --> 1723.10] I am with you always. -[1724.32 --> 1728.10] I am with you even in your doubts, in your fears and failures. -[1728.80 --> 1732.38] I am with you in the silence and in our questions. -[1733.14 --> 1735.10] I am with you always. -[1735.10 --> 1739.86] We are going to be singing My Lighthouse now. -[1739.86 --> 1743.64] And I was wondering, I was at chapel on Friday. -[1743.64 --> 1748.64] And, Linda, you did it to me too. -[1748.64 --> 1750.64] Let's share. -[1750.64 --> 1757.52] Anyway, I think chapel from grades like kindergarten to grade five, -[1757.52 --> 1761.94] they did such an awesome job singing this song and doing the actions. -[1761.94 --> 1765.24] And I was wondering if they could come up and help us with that song. -[1765.24 --> 1770.74] Is there anybody willing to come up, show us like the clapping, the reverse? -[1770.74 --> 1771.44] Oh, yes. -[1771.44 --> 1772.94] Thank you so much. -[1772.94 --> 1776.70] Anyone else want to come up and show us what it looks like? -[1776.70 --> 1778.70] Right on. -[1778.70 --> 1780.70] All right. -[1780.70 --> 1784.28] Now that you're on the stage, I think we can stand and sing this song too. -[1784.28 --> 1791.28] Thank you so much for coming up and helping. -[1791.28 --> 1805.56] Feel free to join them in the actions. -[1805.56 --> 1807.50] Here we go. -[1807.50 --> 1808.50] Okay. -[1808.50 --> 1809.50] Come on. -[1809.50 --> 1818.12] In my wrestling and in my doubts, in my failures you won't walk out. -[1818.12 --> 1822.70] Your great love will lead me through. -[1822.70 --> 1827.32] You are the peace in my troubles. -[1827.32 --> 1831.32] Oh, you are the peace in my troubles. -[1831.32 --> 1835.32] Oh, you are the peace in my troubles. -[1835.32 --> 1839.78] In the silence you won't let go. -[1839.78 --> 1844.50] In the questions your truth will hold. -[1844.50 --> 1848.82] Your great love will lead me through. -[1848.82 --> 1853.44] You are the peace in my troubles. -[1853.44 --> 1857.44] Oh, you are the peace in my troubles. -[1857.44 --> 1861.44] In the darkness you won't follow you. -[1861.44 --> 1866.44] My lighthouse, my lighthouse. -[1866.44 --> 1870.44] Shining in the darkness I will follow you. -[1870.44 --> 1875.44] Oh, my lighthouse, my lighthouse. -[1875.44 --> 1877.44] You will carry me. -[1877.44 --> 1883.06] You will carry me safe to shore. -[1883.06 --> 1888.06] Safe to shore. -[1888.06 --> 1892.06] Safe to shore. -[1892.06 --> 1898.06] Safe to shore. -[1898.06 --> 1902.68] I won't fear what tomorrow brings. -[1902.68 --> 1906.68] With each morning I'll rise and sing. -[1906.68 --> 1911.68] My God's love will lead me through. -[1911.68 --> 1915.68] You are the peace in my troubled sea. -[1915.68 --> 1923.68] Oh, you are the peace in my troubled sea. -[1923.68 --> 1928.30] My lighthouse, my lighthouse. -[1928.30 --> 1932.30] Shining in the darkness I will follow you. -[1932.30 --> 1937.30] Oh, my lighthouse, my lighthouse. -[1937.30 --> 1939.30] I will carry you. -[1939.30 --> 1944.92] You will carry me safe to shore. -[1944.92 --> 1949.92] Safe to shore. -[1949.92 --> 1953.92] Safe to shore. -[1953.92 --> 1957.92] Safe to shore. -[1957.92 --> 1961.92] Fire before us. -[1961.92 --> 1974.54] You will lead us through the storms. -[1974.54 --> 1979.54] Fire before us. -[1979.54 --> 1986.54] You will lead us through the storms. -[1986.54 --> 1989.54] Fire before us. -[1989.54 --> 1992.16] You are the brightest. -[1992.16 --> 1995.16] You will lead us through the storm. -[1995.16 --> 2000.16] My lighthouse, my lighthouse. -[2000.16 --> 2004.16] Shining in the darkness I will follow you. -[2004.16 --> 2009.16] Oh, my lighthouse, my lighthouse. -[2009.16 --> 2011.16] I will trust the promise. -[2011.16 --> 2016.78] You will carry me safe to shore. -[2016.78 --> 2020.78] Safe to shore. -[2020.78 --> 2025.78] Safe to shore. -[2025.78 --> 2027.78] Safe to shore. -[2027.78 --> 2030.78] Well, thank you so much. -[2030.78 --> 2033.78] I'm glad to be seated. -[2033.78 --> 2042.40] Thank you. -[2042.40 --> 2046.60] Carrying on with that confession, Paul puts it so clearly in Romans 8. -[2046.60 --> 2048.36] Romans 8, it says, -[2048.36 --> 2054.12] For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither this present -[2054.12 --> 2061.86] nor the future, nor any powers, neither heights nor depths, nor anything else in all creation -[2061.86 --> 2066.72] will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. -[2066.72 --> 2075.84] If it reflects what we read in Matthew, I am with you always to the very end of the age. -[2075.84 --> 2085.24] And yet in stressful times, it's easy to be overwhelmed and have circumstances blind us to God's love for us. -[2085.24 --> 2086.62] Let's bow our heads. -[2086.62 --> 2094.78] Father, you make it so clear. -[2094.78 --> 2099.74] You tell us so plainly. -[2099.74 --> 2104.74] I am with you always. -[2104.74 --> 2109.54] Yet I hear myself asking, really? -[2109.54 --> 2116.60] My failures won't separate me from your love? -[2116.60 --> 2119.52] And we hear you through your words in Romans. -[2119.52 --> 2121.08] Say that, yes, nothing. -[2121.78 --> 2123.66] Nothing can separate us from your love. -[2125.48 --> 2129.32] Help us to celebrate your ever-endearing love for us. -[2130.02 --> 2133.92] Help us to know this deeply that you are always with us. -[2134.42 --> 2136.08] That nothing can separate us. -[2136.94 --> 2138.52] We need you, Lord Jesus. -[2139.00 --> 2139.22] Amen. -[2139.22 --> 2139.36] Amen. -[2144.36 --> 2147.14] Why don't you rise as we sing this one? -[2147.14 --> 2148.14] Amen. -[2148.14 --> 2149.14] Amen. -[2149.14 --> 2150.14] Amen. -[2150.14 --> 2151.14] Amen. -[2151.14 --> 2152.14] Amen. -[2152.14 --> 2153.14] Amen. -[2153.14 --> 2155.14] Amen. -[2155.14 --> 2156.52] Lord, I come. -[2156.52 --> 2159.94] I confess. -[2159.94 --> 2169.00] Bowing here, I find my rest. -[2169.00 --> 2174.92] And without you, I fall apart. -[2174.92 --> 2183.76] You're the one that guides my heart. -[2183.76 --> 2190.06] Lord, I need you. -[2190.06 --> 2194.80] Oh, I need you. -[2194.80 --> 2201.72] Every hour I need you. -[2201.72 --> 2208.96] My one defense, my righteousness. -[2208.96 --> 2214.78] Oh, God, how I need you. -[2214.78 --> 2225.70] Where sin runs deep, your grace is more. -[2225.70 --> 2232.70] Where grace is found is where you are. -[2232.70 --> 2247.62] Holiness is Christ in me. -[2247.62 --> 2254.54] And where you are, Lord, I am free. -[2254.54 --> 2263.54] Holiness is Christ in me. -[2263.54 --> 2266.46] Lord, I need you. -[2266.46 --> 2268.46] Lord, I need you. -[2268.46 --> 2273.46] Oh, I need you. -[2273.46 --> 2280.46] Every hour I need you. -[2280.46 --> 2287.38] My one defense, my righteousness. -[2287.38 --> 2293.38] Oh, God, how I need you. -[2293.38 --> 2306.30] Jesus, you're my hope and stay. -[2306.30 --> 2311.22] And when I cannot stand, I'll fall on you. -[2311.22 --> 2318.22] Jesus, you're my hope and stay. -[2318.22 --> 2324.22] And when I cannot stand, I'll fall on you. -[2324.22 --> 2330.14] Jesus, you're my hope and stay. -[2330.14 --> 2335.14] Lord, I need you. -[2335.14 --> 2337.00] Lord, I need you. -[2337.00 --> 2341.14] Oh, I need you. -[2341.14 --> 2348.34] Every hour I need you. -[2348.34 --> 2355.26] My one defense, my righteousness. -[2355.26 --> 2361.26] Oh, God, how I need you. -[2361.26 --> 2364.26] I need you. -[2364.26 --> 2369.26] Oh, I need you. -[2369.26 --> 2376.26] Every hour I need you. -[2376.26 --> 2383.18] My one defense, my righteousness. -[2383.18 --> 2389.18] Oh, God, how I need you. -[2389.18 --> 2397.18] My one defense, my righteousness. -[2397.18 --> 2404.18] Oh, God, how I need you. -[2404.18 --> 2407.10] I invite you to be seated. -[2407.10 --> 2408.10] Thank you. -[2408.10 --> 2409.10] Thank you. -[2409.10 --> 2410.10] Thank you. -[2410.10 --> 2411.10] Thank you. -[2411.10 --> 2412.10] Thank you. -[2412.10 --> 2414.10] Thank you. -[2414.10 --> 2415.10] Thank you. -[2415.10 --> 2416.10] Thank you. -[2416.10 --> 2423.54] We've got a lot going on in our midst today and in this season of life for our church. -[2423.54 --> 2432.06] And so at this point, we have the opportunity to install new office bearers for service here. -[2432.06 --> 2438.98] We are grateful to God for his provision of our church leaders together. -[2438.98 --> 2445.46] We want to thank Eric Van Heusen, who served as an admin elder and chair of council. -[2445.46 --> 2448.86] We want to thank Daryl Wind, who served as a pastoral elder. -[2448.86 --> 2455.66] And then also we thank Mike Rorsma and Clem Molenkamp, who served this past season as deacons. -[2455.66 --> 2462.14] In the office bearers of the church, we see Jesus' love for his people. -[2462.14 --> 2470.90] Jesus appoints leaders to govern in his name, promoting the health and growth of the church and the maturation of our church family. -[2470.90 --> 2480.58] Admin elders oversee the church in Jesus' name, dealing with the administration of our society and coordinating our governance with full council. -[2480.58 --> 2487.94] Pastoral elders provide spiritual and theological leadership, giving pastoral guidance to those in need. -[2487.94 --> 2494.52] And deacons lead us in serving the Lord through ministries of mercy and justice. -[2495.58 --> 2505.64] Elders and deacons must be Christ-like, must be mature in faith, and they must exercise their offices with prayer, patience, and humility. -[2505.64 --> 2515.28] Today, by the grace of God and in the Spirit's power, we ordain and install an admin elder, pastoral elder, and two deacons. -[2515.28 --> 2518.70] And so when I call your name, I'm going to invite you to come to the front. -[2519.64 --> 2523.64] Clary will be serving and installed as an admin elder. -[2524.22 --> 2527.10] Paul will be installed as a pastoral elder. -[2527.84 --> 2532.36] And Allison and Pearl will be installed as deacons in our midst. -[2532.36 --> 2537.24] Yeah, right up, right on stage. -[2548.42 --> 2550.84] Order doesn't matter as much when you're up here. -[2550.90 --> 2551.40] You're up here. -[2553.62 --> 2559.98] To affirm your acceptance of these responsibilities, I'm going to ask you four questions. -[2559.98 --> 2563.56] So I'll ask all four questions, and then I'll ask, say, Clary, what is your answer? -[2563.90 --> 2572.14] Invite you to respond, saying, I do with God's help, or I do God helping me, or I do with Jesus, however you choose to respond. -[2574.62 --> 2582.98] First, do you believe that in the call of this congregation, God himself is calling you to these holy offices? -[2582.98 --> 2590.72] Second, do you believe that the Old and New Testaments are the word of God, the only infallible rule of faith and life? -[2591.80 --> 2597.50] Three, do you subscribe to the doctrinal standards of this church, rejecting all teaching which contradicts them? -[2598.18 --> 2603.36] And four, do you promise to do the work of your offices faithfully in a way worthy of your calling, -[2603.78 --> 2607.96] and in submission to the government and discipleship of this church? -[2608.88 --> 2610.36] Clary, what is your answer? -[2610.36 --> 2611.78] I do, God helping me. -[2611.90 --> 2612.14] Amen. -[2612.38 --> 2613.48] Paul, what is your answer? -[2613.72 --> 2614.74] I do, God helping me. -[2614.80 --> 2615.10] Amen. -[2615.36 --> 2616.46] Allison, what is your answer? -[2616.74 --> 2617.70] I do, God helping me. -[2617.76 --> 2618.00] Amen. -[2618.24 --> 2619.52] And Pearl, what is your answer? -[2619.76 --> 2620.92] I do, God helping me. -[2621.06 --> 2621.42] Amen. -[2622.04 --> 2622.40] Amen. -[2623.68 --> 2626.90] We're going to ordain them with a prayer. -[2627.28 --> 2630.08] And to do that, what I'd like you to do is just to move down here, -[2630.18 --> 2634.74] and then I'm going to invite the outgoing office bearers, the currently serving office bearers, -[2634.74 --> 2639.64] and then the family of those, these people here who will serve together, -[2640.32 --> 2645.16] as well anyone else who feels led to come forward and to lay hands on. -[2646.00 --> 2648.78] If you aren't wanting to come forward to lay hands on, -[2648.78 --> 2656.64] you are invited just to hold a hand up and out as a gesture and a symbol of our laying hands on here. -[2656.64 --> 2670.74] In the scriptures, the laying on of hands is a picture of God's Holy Spirit at work -[2670.74 --> 2678.14] through the body of believers, commissioning these people, sending these people to serve in our midst. -[2678.66 --> 2683.10] And so we offer this prayer of ordination and commissioning. -[2683.24 --> 2684.62] Join your heart with me in prayer. -[2686.64 --> 2691.92] God, our Heavenly Father, who has called you to these sacred offices, -[2692.44 --> 2697.34] guide you by his word, equip you with his spirit, and prosper your ministries. -[2698.20 --> 2701.62] Lord Jesus, make them faithful workers in your vineyard. -[2702.74 --> 2708.46] Under their guidance, may your church grow in spiritual grace, faith, and committed service. -[2709.18 --> 2712.94] Help them perform their duties with enthusiasm and humility. -[2712.94 --> 2718.24] Grant in them sustained awe rooted in daily adoration of you. -[2719.22 --> 2723.14] Through them, may your name be honored and your church be served. -[2724.54 --> 2728.74] And help us, we pray, your people, to accept them gladly, -[2729.30 --> 2734.30] to encourage them, and to respect them for the sake of your Son, our Lord, -[2734.40 --> 2735.66] in whose name we pray. -[2736.16 --> 2738.32] All God's people said, Amen. -[2739.40 --> 2739.72] Amen. -[2739.72 --> 2742.14] You may all take your seat together. -[2751.64 --> 2759.00] For this next portion, I'm going to read the charge that comes from the Scriptures -[2759.00 --> 2762.32] to those who are serving in these offices. -[2762.32 --> 2768.06] And so, even as I address you by name, as you've just been installed and ordained, -[2768.48 --> 2773.46] this applies to all of us who serve as elders and deacons in this church. -[2774.12 --> 2775.52] And so, Clary, first. -[2775.52 --> 2780.48] As admin elder, I charge you with these scriptures to guide your work. -[2781.60 --> 2787.14] Hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught so that you can encourage others. -[2788.30 --> 2790.52] Pray continually for the church. -[2791.48 --> 2796.90] And remember that true spiritual leadership requires being mastered by your Lord. -[2796.90 --> 2801.08] Everything must be done so that the church may be built up. -[2801.92 --> 2806.30] Ensure that everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way. -[2807.66 --> 2809.78] And Paul, where did you go? -[2809.86 --> 2810.28] There you are. -[2810.54 --> 2815.82] Paul, as a pastoral elder, I charge you with these scriptures to guide your work. -[2816.78 --> 2819.94] Hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, -[2820.04 --> 2825.34] so that you may encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it. -[2825.34 --> 2828.50] Pray continually for the church. -[2829.46 --> 2831.02] Remember, our Lord Jesus said, -[2831.36 --> 2835.34] Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me, -[2835.70 --> 2839.40] and so be a friend and Christ-like example to children. -[2840.28 --> 2843.08] Give clear and cheerful guidance to young people. -[2843.86 --> 2849.96] Know the scriptures which are useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness. -[2850.80 --> 2854.50] And remember at all times that if you would truly give spiritual leadership -[2854.50 --> 2859.28] in the household of faith, you must be completely mastered by your Lord. -[2860.54 --> 2867.06] And Allison and Pearl, to you, I charge you with these scriptures to guide your work as deacons. -[2867.86 --> 2871.98] Hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, -[2872.06 --> 2874.70] so that you can encourage others. -[2874.70 --> 2878.94] You are to be worthy of respect and sincere. -[2879.70 --> 2883.56] Deacons must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. -[2884.40 --> 2887.50] And so serve the church with the spirit and wisdom. -[2888.04 --> 2894.32] And teach us to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with our God. -[2894.32 --> 2899.50] And then to the congregation, to the church family gathered here at Emmanuel, -[2899.88 --> 2907.06] I charge you, people of God, to receive these office bearers as Christ's gift to the church. -[2908.24 --> 2912.60] Recognize in them the Lord's provision for a healthy congregational life. -[2913.10 --> 2914.10] Hold them in honor. -[2914.30 --> 2915.84] Take their counsel seriously. -[2916.32 --> 2918.42] Respond with obedience and respect. -[2918.80 --> 2920.80] And accept their help with thanks. -[2920.80 --> 2925.02] Participate wholeheartedly in the ministries they lead. -[2925.38 --> 2929.96] Sustain them in prayer and support them, especially when they feel burdened. -[2930.86 --> 2934.64] And acknowledge them as the Lord's servants among you. -[2936.14 --> 2939.94] And so you, congregation, family of God, have a question as well. -[2940.22 --> 2942.32] And I invite you to respond as you see. -[2942.32 --> 2947.64] Do you, congregation, pledge to receive them as you have been charged? -[2948.32 --> 2950.50] We do with God's help. -[2951.42 --> 2951.78] Amen. -[2952.38 --> 2954.22] Let's continue in our worship with the offering. -[2954.40 --> 2956.26] I'll invite the deacons forward to lead us in that. -[2956.26 --> 2956.44] Amen. -[2965.12 --> 2965.94] Was that better? -[2966.14 --> 2966.62] Sound wise? -[2966.84 --> 2967.30] Yeah, yeah, yeah. -[2967.30 --> 2967.48] Okay. -[2972.14 --> 2972.78] Good morning. -[2973.00 --> 2975.22] My name is Brenda and I'm a deacon here at Emmanuel. -[2975.22 --> 2979.30] We continue our worship with the giving of our gifts, first to the budget. -[2980.04 --> 2983.04] And our special offering today is for benevolence. -[2984.54 --> 2998.24] And as a congregation here, every Sunday you get to see one of us deacons come up here and tell you about the cause, the organization, the mission or ministry that you are giving to. -[2998.24 --> 3002.78] And all of those typically have a name to it. -[3003.70 --> 3006.80] We have Jennifer here today from Safe Families. -[3006.96 --> 3008.00] She's going to talk to us. -[3008.46 --> 3016.84] We have the baby bottle campaign going on, which this is just a reminder that if you haven't gotten your baby bottle from the back yet, you can still take one. -[3016.84 --> 3020.86] But all of those have names to them. -[3021.80 --> 3024.60] Our offering for today is for benevolence. -[3025.30 --> 3032.42] Benevolence is a term that for me, having grown up in the Christian Reformed Church, I've heard this term, I guess, all my life. -[3033.38 --> 3036.04] Kind of knew what it was, that sort of thing. -[3036.04 --> 3046.00] But these last two years for me as serving as a deacon have really showed to me that benevolence also has, it's maybe more generic, but it also has a name. -[3046.84 --> 3056.46] It's names and faces of people that most of us don't get to meet, people who are struggling, people, whether it's in this congregation, whether it's in our local community. -[3056.46 --> 3071.40] But we have the privilege and the ability, this church has been incredibly generous, to support these people, these situations that come up, maybe one time, maybe ongoing. -[3072.44 --> 3084.20] So today I just ask that you consider, yes, it's a title, it's a benevolence, but there are names and faces and building of relationships that happen through the giving that you give. -[3084.20 --> 3087.86] So I ask that you bless as God has blessed you. -[3114.20 --> 3136.46] Jesus, Jesus, be the center, be my source, be my light, Jesus. -[3136.46 --> 3136.50] Jesus, be the center, be my source, be my light, Jesus. -[3136.50 --> 3166.48] Jesus, be my source, be my source, Jesus. -[3166.48 --> 3185.98] Jesus, be the fire in my heart, be the wind in these sails, be the reason that I live, Jesus. -[3185.98 --> 3189.04] Jesus, Jesus. -[3189.04 --> 3196.04] Jesus, Jesus. -[3196.48 --> 3211.48] Jesus, be my source, be my source, be my source, be my source, be my source, and be the Lord. -[3211.48 --> 3213.88] Jesus, Jesus. -[3217.88 --> 3225.92] Be the fire in my heart, be the wind in these sails, be the light, Jesus. -[3225.92 --> 3236.16] In these cells be the reason that I live -[3236.16 --> 3241.08] Jesus, Jesus -[3241.08 --> 3255.34] Jesus, be the center -[3255.34 --> 3263.34] Be my source, be my light -[3263.98 --> 3266.18] Jesus -[3266.18 --> 3269.34] Jesus -[3269.34 --> 3282.50] Okay, I'd like to invite all the kids age 3 to grade 4. -[3282.58 --> 3283.66] We've got some keeners here. -[3285.34 --> 3291.98] Did you say the girls are always first? -[3293.10 --> 3293.54] Okay. -[3293.80 --> 3294.80] Did boys, did you hear that? -[3296.00 --> 3296.52] Alright. -[3297.52 --> 3298.24] Good morning. -[3298.30 --> 3299.12] How's everybody doing? -[3299.64 --> 3300.02] Good. -[3300.02 --> 3301.42] Right on. -[3301.58 --> 3306.42] Today or the last couple weeks we've been talking a bit about family and children's worship time. -[3306.48 --> 3307.20] Do you remember that? -[3308.08 --> 3309.38] Now what does family mean? -[3309.44 --> 3312.28] Does family mean just like the people in your home? -[3312.48 --> 3315.40] Or is it mean, is there greater family around? -[3315.66 --> 3316.88] Yeah, what does family mean to you? -[3316.88 --> 3317.42] Okay. -[3317.42 --> 3317.48] Okay. -[3317.48 --> 3325.30] When you have family, it's like sometimes we talk about family. -[3325.30 --> 3326.68] That's the people in our home. -[3326.76 --> 3330.24] But family, like everybody here in this church is kind of part of your family, aren't they? -[3330.38 --> 3330.62] Yeah. -[3331.18 --> 3332.64] So I got a question for you. -[3332.70 --> 3336.74] When you go and meet somebody else, what's the best way to meet somebody? -[3336.80 --> 3338.72] Like on the playground or at the park or something? -[3338.74 --> 3339.34] What do you got to do? -[3339.96 --> 3340.68] Shake hands. -[3340.74 --> 3341.38] What's something else? -[3342.38 --> 3343.12] Introduce yourself. -[3343.22 --> 3343.58] What else? -[3344.46 --> 3345.30] Say hi. -[3345.30 --> 3345.36] Hi. -[3346.20 --> 3349.52] So sometimes when you want to meet somebody new, you ask questions. -[3349.74 --> 3352.78] So it might be like, and I don't, I know some of you guys pretty good. -[3352.84 --> 3356.38] But if I ask you a question like, what's your favorite color? -[3357.60 --> 3358.00] Purple. -[3358.16 --> 3359.58] So I know something new about you. -[3360.06 --> 3360.88] How about you? -[3360.94 --> 3362.06] Do you guys have a pet at home? -[3362.48 --> 3363.56] What kind of pet do you have? -[3364.50 --> 3365.46] You have a dog. -[3365.76 --> 3366.18] Okay. -[3366.94 --> 3369.90] And do you like candy? -[3370.68 --> 3373.16] Oh, I learned all kinds of new things about some people. -[3373.16 --> 3376.98] So as I learn new things about people, it's easier for you. -[3377.08 --> 3380.96] You can be part of my friend group, and I can share God's love with you because I have -[3380.96 --> 3382.04] a relationship with you. -[3382.14 --> 3384.70] So that's what we're going to learn about today in children's worship time. -[3384.76 --> 3385.72] Does that sound like a good idea? -[3386.08 --> 3386.30] Yes. -[3387.06 --> 3390.14] How about we stand up right now, and we'll bless the congregation. -[3391.62 --> 3392.92] And they'll bless us. -[3393.56 --> 3393.82] Ready? -[3394.90 --> 3397.30] The Lord be with you. -[3397.30 --> 3399.30] And also with you. -[3403.16 --> 3419.00] Hi. -[3419.12 --> 3423.44] My name is Jennifer Gamache, and this is really like coming home. -[3423.44 --> 3429.54] I used to teach next door, and I'm running into some of my students who now have families -[3429.54 --> 3431.80] of their own, and that makes me feel a little bit old. -[3432.38 --> 3434.06] But great to see everybody. -[3434.34 --> 3435.72] So my name is Jennifer Gamache. -[3435.84 --> 3438.86] I'm the chapter director of Safe Families Lower Mainland. -[3439.08 --> 3442.46] We currently serve families from Chilliwack to Cloverdale. -[3442.46 --> 3450.48] And what we do is we try, and our motto is to keep kids safe and families together through -[3450.48 --> 3453.34] community, through a circle of support. -[3453.78 --> 3456.84] And our motto is that everyone can do something. -[3457.36 --> 3462.14] And all the little somethings add up to a really big difference. -[3462.80 --> 3468.10] The reason I can be so passionate about this cause is I'm standing here before you today -[3468.10 --> 3473.94] because someone, when crisis struck my family, someone from the church reached out, and my -[3473.94 --> 3475.44] life has never been the same. -[3476.44 --> 3481.64] My dad left when I was three, and not only did he leave me and my mom, but he left my mom -[3481.64 --> 3483.24] who had a degenerative disease. -[3483.72 --> 3484.74] She didn't drive. -[3484.94 --> 3488.26] I was three, four, five, having to care for her. -[3488.80 --> 3490.88] I should have been put into foster care. -[3491.30 --> 3496.06] But the reason I wasn't put into foster care was because one person from the church came -[3496.06 --> 3499.74] to my family in crisis, and that began a relationship. -[3500.40 --> 3503.52] And someone every week drove us to get groceries on a Saturday. -[3504.10 --> 3505.82] Somebody paid for me to go to camp. -[3506.24 --> 3508.78] Somebody hosted me while my mom was in the hospital. -[3509.14 --> 3514.70] All these little pieces allowed me to be here today knowing Christ. -[3514.84 --> 3515.96] My mom found Christ. -[3516.08 --> 3517.06] I found Christ. -[3517.48 --> 3521.48] My kids, it didn't only change my life, but it changed generations to follow. -[3521.48 --> 3527.38] And so that's why I can stand here so passionate about safe families, because in the church, -[3527.44 --> 3529.22] we know what community is. -[3529.80 --> 3535.94] But since starting this job, I'm telling you honestly, people have no one. -[3536.64 --> 3541.34] One example would be a single mom with two kids, and she was going in for a C-section. -[3541.82 --> 3547.72] She was taking a cab to the hospital to have her baby, and she had nowhere for her two kids -[3547.72 --> 3548.20] to go. -[3548.82 --> 3551.52] So we were, you're thinking, can you call a neighbor? -[3551.68 --> 3552.60] Can you call your mom? -[3552.72 --> 3553.66] Can you call a sister? -[3554.10 --> 3555.14] They have nobody. -[3555.78 --> 3560.10] Safe Families was able to host her two children for five days while the mom could go in. -[3560.44 --> 3563.46] We paired her with a family friend who drove her to the hospital. -[3563.96 --> 3565.84] Part of the church created a meal train. -[3566.00 --> 3567.56] Somebody came in and cleaned her house. -[3567.56 --> 3574.96] We supported them in temporary crisis so that the family doesn't fall apart. -[3574.96 --> 3580.38] So we try and keep kids and families together through support, through the church. -[3581.32 --> 3582.92] All of us can do something. -[3583.08 --> 3585.38] We have volunteers that are 18 years old. -[3585.48 --> 3587.10] We have volunteers who are 82. -[3587.90 --> 3593.88] We have a wonderful 82-year-old man that delivers groceries to three single moms every single week. -[3594.04 --> 3595.88] He's like, this is my greatest joy. -[3596.04 --> 3597.78] He goes, this is not a chore for me. -[3598.28 --> 3602.58] We have a 25-year-old plumber that I did a presentation at a young adults group. -[3602.58 --> 3606.46] And he's like, well, I can't really do much, but I'm a plumber. -[3606.52 --> 3607.42] Would that be useful? -[3607.94 --> 3609.56] I'm like, that would be very useful. -[3609.94 --> 3611.46] Two weeks ago, we had a single mom. -[3611.52 --> 3615.40] Her dishwasher broke, flooded the kitchen. -[3615.60 --> 3619.18] He went there, fixed it, mopped the floor, was playing with the kids. -[3619.26 --> 3624.56] He's like, I sure hope some more dishwashers break because that was really, really a blessing to me. -[3624.56 --> 3630.98] And so if you think of your worst crisis that you've been in and think who came around you, -[3631.54 --> 3635.06] but then think of that crisis in having no one coming around you. -[3635.58 --> 3638.64] That's what our families, the place that they're in right now. -[3638.84 --> 3641.22] So we have four different volunteer roles. -[3641.36 --> 3642.76] So everyone can do something. -[3642.92 --> 3644.60] Some are hosting kids temporarily. -[3645.22 --> 3646.58] Some are a family friend. -[3647.04 --> 3650.16] Some help supply resources like boots or diapers. -[3650.68 --> 3652.36] And some are family coaches. -[3652.36 --> 3655.80] And so I would love for you to come and hear more of my story, -[3656.04 --> 3660.32] more of Safe Families, and how we're impacting the community. -[3660.74 --> 3664.16] The biggest thing that I find with our families is they come and they say, -[3664.52 --> 3666.28] why are you doing this? -[3667.46 --> 3668.74] Nobody is getting paid. -[3668.88 --> 3674.92] They cannot wrap their head around why people are building relationship and friendship with them. -[3675.58 --> 3679.44] It gives us the opportunity to say why we're doing this. -[3679.60 --> 3681.06] Christ loved us first. -[3681.06 --> 3684.02] And where are they going to find true hope and healing? -[3684.50 --> 3686.08] Is through Christ Jesus. -[3686.40 --> 3688.96] And so this has been a wonderful opportunity. -[3690.02 --> 3691.72] I gave up my teaching job. -[3691.90 --> 3694.28] I taught for most of my life. -[3694.48 --> 3697.76] I really felt like God was bringing about something different. -[3697.92 --> 3700.28] So I resigned not knowing what I was going to do. -[3700.64 --> 3703.16] My husband and I were looking into doing foster care. -[3703.78 --> 3705.98] Somebody posted about Safe Families. -[3706.12 --> 3707.88] I said, Jeff, this is what we need to do. -[3707.88 --> 3709.68] We want to keep families together. -[3710.18 --> 3713.68] We want these kids going into Christian-loving, safe homes. -[3713.98 --> 3718.72] I'll tell you countless stories in the presentation of families right here in Langley, -[3718.94 --> 3725.56] where their lives have been absolutely changed by friendship and community and feeling like they're not alone. -[3725.56 --> 3731.66] It's when kids and families are isolated and withdrawn is often when kids become unsafe. -[3732.00 --> 3735.30] This is not necessarily parents who are poor parents. -[3735.42 --> 3736.94] They're parents without support. -[3737.48 --> 3741.00] And so I would love for you to come and hear more about Safe Families Lower Mainland. -[3741.00 --> 3743.62] It's been great to see all of you. -[3744.02 --> 3746.52] We'll be in the back room there after the service. -[3746.90 --> 3747.34] Thank you. -[3747.34 --> 3763.22] Thank you, Jennifer. -[3763.34 --> 3764.14] That was good to hear. -[3764.94 --> 3765.98] My name is Dave. -[3766.10 --> 3767.70] I am one of the elders in this church. -[3768.22 --> 3772.72] And it is my blessing to be able to lead you in our church family prayer. -[3773.32 --> 3774.00] Let us pray. -[3774.00 --> 3778.32] Father, this is the day that you have made. -[3778.70 --> 3780.64] We rejoice and we are glad in it. -[3781.36 --> 3784.04] Father, we praise you and thank you for this Lord's Day, -[3784.28 --> 3787.96] a time where we gather with Christians everywhere and we celebrate your name. -[3788.94 --> 3793.76] Father, we confess that we are flawed human beings and we have a sinful nature. -[3794.52 --> 3799.20] Like the Apostle Paul, we desire to do what is good and cannot carry it out. -[3799.20 --> 3805.54] We do not do the good we want to do, but the evil we do not want to do, this we keep on doing. -[3805.54 --> 3814.20] We thank you that we do not have to bear the guilt of our sin, for Jesus has taken our burden to the cross and we don't have to bear it anymore. -[3814.60 --> 3816.82] We thank you for that unspeakable gift. -[3816.82 --> 3822.36] Father, we thank you for this special Sunday where we get to install new office bearers. -[3822.74 --> 3829.70] We thank you for new elders and deacons and the important work that they do, the governance of this congregation and service for your people. -[3830.42 --> 3833.62] Give them guidance and strength as they do this important work. -[3834.04 --> 3837.08] We promise them our love, encouragement and prayers. -[3837.08 --> 3840.52] We thank you for the synod that we'll be meeting soon. -[3840.98 --> 3844.88] We thank you that Pastor Chris has the opportunity to serve as a delegate at that synod. -[3845.30 --> 3847.76] We pray for him and every other delegate. -[3848.30 --> 3851.24] They have important and sometimes difficult matters to discuss. -[3851.90 --> 3859.22] Give them wisdom, understanding and insight so that they might be able to discern your will for your church and act accordingly. -[3859.22 --> 3867.36] Father, we thank you for Safe Families Canada and the important work that they are doing. -[3868.12 --> 3875.20] And maybe they're just doing volunteer work in small ways, but they are in situations where people are in need. -[3875.46 --> 3877.06] We thank you for the work that they do. -[3877.40 --> 3879.32] We ask that you will continue to bless them. -[3880.06 --> 3884.60] We think about members of our congregation and people connected to it. -[3884.60 --> 3889.78] We thank you that Kobe DeBoer-Sap has had a bone marrow transplant and is continuing -[3889.78 --> 3893.08] radiation chemotherapy. -[3893.08 --> 3895.14] This is a difficult treatment to get. -[3895.14 --> 3898.04] We pray for strength and for healing. -[3898.04 --> 3904.32] Father, we thank you Everly Vartstra who has been diagnosed with melanoma. -[3904.32 --> 3908.36] We are grateful that the prognosis is helpful but we know that there is lots of work that -[3908.36 --> 3909.54] needs to be done. -[3909.54 --> 3913.80] Please be with her and family as they endure this challenge as well. -[3913.80 --> 3918.70] We pray for Rose Vita who has experienced her own health challenges and other struggles. -[3918.70 --> 3923.18] We pray that you be very close to her and give her what she stands in need of. -[3923.18 --> 3929.10] We think about Judy Dykstra's friend Vera who has been experiencing shingles for some time. -[3929.10 --> 3930.74] This is a very painful condition. -[3930.74 --> 3935.34] We pray that she will experience some relief. -[3935.34 --> 3939.12] At the end of this school year we pray for the students and teachers at Langley Christian -[3939.12 --> 3941.56] School and all other schools. -[3941.56 --> 3946.46] We pray that they will be able to finish well and look forward to a summer break. -[3946.46 --> 3950.66] Whether it be travel or rest or work or spending time with family. -[3950.66 --> 3952.94] We ask that you bless this time for them. -[3952.94 --> 3957.38] Father, we thank you about the severe floods that have taken place in southern Brazil with -[3957.38 --> 3960.26] widespread damage and loss of life. -[3960.26 --> 3964.96] We pray that national and international efforts will be able to come together and to help all -[3964.96 --> 3969.36] those who have been injured, to help those who have been displaced. -[3969.36 --> 3974.72] Father, once again we pray for the war zones of the world. -[3974.72 --> 3976.46] We think about Israel and Gaza. -[3976.46 --> 3978.92] We think about Ukraine and Russia. -[3978.92 --> 3983.04] We know that there are other places that are experiencing tension and conflict. -[3983.04 --> 3986.82] We pray for those who are suffering and those who are living in fear. -[3986.82 --> 3992.92] We pray for the injured, for the families of the dead, for the families of the hostages. -[3992.92 --> 3996.54] We pray for a real peace, a meaningful peace. -[3996.54 --> 4003.32] Not just one where the shooting stops, but where everyone learns to live together as neighbors. -[4003.32 --> 4006.70] We pray for Pastor Chris as he leads us in your word. -[4006.70 --> 4011.58] We pray that our study, we value our study of Paul's letter to the Romans. -[4011.58 --> 4017.82] It gives us valuable insights on our sin, your love, your grace, and faith in you. -[4017.82 --> 4023.06] Give Chris the words so that we can listen and apply them to the rest of our lives, so -[4023.06 --> 4027.66] that all the Gentiles may come to the obedience that comes from faith. -[4027.66 --> 4032.56] To the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ. -[4032.56 --> 4032.86] Amen. -[4035.32 --> 4058.32] As Dave prayed there, we are going to continue in our look through the book of Romans. -[4059.00 --> 4066.14] We are coming near the end this week and next, and we have made it all the way through from -[4066.14 --> 4076.26] beginning to end. It will be almost exactly 18 months since we started in Romans, and so a -[4076.26 --> 4084.04] testament to you and your endurance in this work together. We're going to read today from Romans 16 -[4084.04 --> 4093.10] starting at verse 17, and then I'll read through to the end of verse 23. It will be on the screen -[4093.10 --> 4098.68] behind me as we go through the first time, but I encourage you, if you have a Bible or a Bible app, -[4098.82 --> 4104.98] to have that open and keep that open as we will, of course, be digging in and going through in -[4104.98 --> 4109.00] particular. Hear the words of Paul. -[4109.00 --> 4119.50] I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles -[4119.50 --> 4127.14] in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them, for such people -[4127.14 --> 4135.62] are not serving our Lord, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery, they deceive the minds -[4135.62 --> 4143.14] of naive people. Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice because of you, but I want -[4143.14 --> 4151.94] you to be wise about what is good and innocent about what is evil. The God of peace will soon crush Satan -[4151.94 --> 4162.20] under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you. Timothy, my co-worker, sends his greetings to you, -[4162.20 --> 4171.54] as do Lucius, Jason, and Sosipater, my fellow Jews. I, Tertius, who wrote down this letter, greet you in the -[4171.54 --> 4179.70] Lord. Gaius, whose hospitality I and the whole church here enjoy, sends you his greetings. -[4181.52 --> 4188.58] Erastus, who is the city's director of public works, and our brother Quartus send you their greetings. -[4188.58 --> 4202.80] This is the word of the Lord. I want to just jump right in for us together this morning, -[4202.80 --> 4213.68] so as to not beat around the bush, so as to ensure that we hear and that we don't miss -[4213.68 --> 4223.60] precisely what it is that Paul is telling us to watch out for. Simply put, Paul says, -[4224.06 --> 4229.90] watch out for those who would rob you of the power of the gospel. -[4233.66 --> 4238.34] Watch out for those who would offer you something else. Watch out for those who would offer you -[4238.34 --> 4243.48] something less. Watch out for those who would offer you something that sounds great on the surface, -[4243.48 --> 4250.32] but in the end proves hollow. Watch out for those who would seek to divide you and to break you apart. -[4250.78 --> 4256.54] Watch out for those who would rob you of the power of the gospel. -[4256.54 --> 4269.16] Now, if you look at the whole of chapter 16, this little seeming interruption, this interlude in -[4269.16 --> 4277.70] verse 17 through 20 seems a little bit strange, right? In the first part of the chapter, and we -[4277.70 --> 4283.76] looked at this last week, there's a list of people that Paul ministered with and who are probably known -[4283.76 --> 4290.98] to the church in Rome. And then verse 21 continues with Paul's missionary team with another list of -[4290.98 --> 4301.94] people. Now, it's important to see here that Paul wrote this letter sometime around the sort of mid-AD -[4301.94 --> 4310.38] 50s, sometime between like 55 and 58. Some scholars narrow that down to 57 to 58. And he's staying -[4310.38 --> 4318.36] in Corinth before making his trip to Jerusalem. In fact, he's staying, we read it, in Gaius's house, -[4319.12 --> 4326.24] right? Verse 23, Gaius, whose hospitality and I, the whole church, enjoy. 1 Corinthians 1 verse 14 -[4326.24 --> 4333.66] mentions that Paul baptized Gaius, probably on his second missionary journey when he stayed there in -[4333.66 --> 4338.82] Corinth for a year and a half with Priscilla and Aquila, two other leaders in the Corinthian church -[4338.82 --> 4346.36] who came from Rome and who are mentioned in the first half of this chapter. But now, Paul is on his -[4346.36 --> 4352.14] third missionary journey and he's getting ready to head back from Jerusalem and he spends three months -[4352.14 --> 4360.70] or so living in Gaius's house. You can read about this in the book of Acts. And he tells us, continuing his -[4360.70 --> 4369.46] list, that Timothy is there with him and that Timothy is a co-worker with Paul. Now, Paul met Timothy in a -[4369.46 --> 4375.88] city called Lystra on his second missionary journey. And Paul and Timothy have had a special relationship -[4375.88 --> 4384.36] from the beginning. Paul refers to Timothy as my true son in the faith. He calls him his deeply loved son. -[4384.36 --> 4392.32] In Philippians, we can read that Paul says, Timothy serves with him as a son with a father in the work of the -[4392.32 --> 4400.70] gospel. And so, Paul and Timothy are together and they are close and they work in this. And Timothy is a -[4400.70 --> 4407.58] recurring character in the story of Paul and the missionary work of Paul. He adds more names. He lists -[4407.58 --> 4416.08] Lucius, Jason, and Sosipater. Jason may be referred to, may refer to the person that Paul stayed with -[4416.08 --> 4421.82] in Thessaloniki, which is the city he was in before coming to Corinth on this time around, but we can't -[4421.82 --> 4429.86] guarantee that. And then, continuing the list in verse 22, we meet a man named Tersias who wrote down -[4429.86 --> 4437.68] this letter. Now, it's common practice for writers and authors of the day to use trained or professional -[4437.68 --> 4444.88] writers. So, the apostle Paul is the author and then Tersias is the writer of this letter. -[4446.42 --> 4455.72] And then lastly, right, we hear a greeting from Erastus and Cortus. And Erastus is listed as the -[4455.72 --> 4462.62] director of public works. Now, I think this is amazing, but I geek out on these kinds of things. -[4463.42 --> 4473.94] In the early 1920s, and then again in the 1960s, a plaque was found in the ancient ruins of the city -[4473.94 --> 4481.96] of Corinth. It dates to the first century, so the time of Paul to this very time. And on it is the name -[4481.96 --> 4490.92] Erastus. And there's an inscription that's carved there that says he was a city official who used -[4490.92 --> 4500.30] his wealth to pave a road in the city of Corinth. So, he used his own wealth and his own public station -[4500.30 --> 4507.04] to serve the community. And this is recorded in stone, literally. And this is another example, -[4507.04 --> 4513.88] I think, of evidence from archaeology confirming the truth and the historicity of the Bible and what -[4513.88 --> 4523.50] Paul is writing about here. Now, all of these names are cool. All of these stories are fascinating to -[4523.50 --> 4536.72] think on. But for us this morning, I want to focus instead on Paul's one last urging. -[4537.04 --> 4545.04] He says, I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles -[4545.04 --> 4549.12] in your way that are contrary to the teaching that you have learned. -[4551.24 --> 4559.62] Now, the Apostle Paul is very familiar with people and with groups of people who come after him, -[4559.92 --> 4565.48] that is, who come to a place after he has established a church there or after he has taught and spent time -[4565.48 --> 4571.72] there. A group of people come and follow after him. And it seems like, as we read the history of it, -[4571.76 --> 4577.02] there's an intentionality to it in that they wait for him to leave and then they follow in. -[4577.36 --> 4585.40] And they teach contrary to what he has taught. And this is a situation, for example, in the church -[4585.40 --> 4591.60] of Galatia. Right? In the book of Galatians, Paul says very pointedly, he says, -[4591.60 --> 4597.14] I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you to live in the grace of -[4597.14 --> 4603.72] Christ and are turning to a different gospel, which is really no gospel at all. Evidently, -[4603.80 --> 4609.30] some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. -[4609.30 --> 4616.96] And to this group of people, right, who are causing divisions and putting obstacles in the way, -[4617.04 --> 4622.60] to this group of people in Galatia, he pulls no punches and he calls them foolish and he says that -[4622.60 --> 4629.62] they have been bewitched. In the same way, actually, Paul warns Timothy when he says, -[4630.62 --> 4636.96] for a time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own -[4636.96 --> 4642.24] desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears -[4642.24 --> 4648.72] want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. -[4650.90 --> 4656.00] He warns the Ephesian church in the same way, in a message that he preached to them when he was -[4656.00 --> 4661.14] visiting them. We read this in the book of Acts. He says, keep watch over yourselves and all the flock -[4661.14 --> 4666.22] of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he -[4666.22 --> 4672.62] bought with his own blood. And here he says explicitly, I know that after I leave, savage -[4672.62 --> 4679.18] wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number, men will rise -[4679.18 --> 4684.86] and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. So be on your guard. -[4686.86 --> 4692.70] Now, we just installed elders this morning. Elders, this is one of your chief tasks, -[4692.70 --> 4700.70] right? Do not miss the responsibility to be on your guard because it is a gift to us as a church family. -[4702.86 --> 4710.06] And in these circumstances of Paul, he's urging the Roman church to watch out for the same sorts of -[4710.06 --> 4717.32] things. And I want to suggest to you that as we have read the letter to the Romans, as we look at the -[4717.32 --> 4725.56] rest of the New Testament, as we hold up history, the kinds of things that Paul is urging us to watch out -[4725.56 --> 4735.24] for are generally a version of two different things. And so let's do this work for a moment. On the one -[4735.24 --> 4747.08] hand, you have a group of people who want to keep the rules and the regulations for belonging really high. -[4747.32 --> 4755.88] Now, sometimes in the Bible scholarly study, this group of people are called Judaizers, -[4756.36 --> 4762.20] right? They're a group of people who follow after Paul and who come in and they teach that the Jewish -[4762.20 --> 4768.44] laws and the Jewish regulations about dietary concerns or about ceremonial identity have to be -[4768.44 --> 4774.68] followed if you want to be a faithful disciple of Jesus. And so they advocate for things like -[4774.68 --> 4780.92] circumcision. They advocate for things like different ceremonial regulations. This is exactly what -[4780.92 --> 4790.12] happens in Galatians. Now, this is a version and a broader way of understanding this is a version of -[4790.12 --> 4796.04] legalism that is of returning to the law. And this idea continues to today. -[4796.04 --> 4804.52] Right? On the one hand, like we have to watch out for imposing a new law, a new social order on those who have -[4804.52 --> 4812.12] received freedom in Christ Jesus. Because this is our new gospel reality. It is for freedom that Christ has set you free. -[4812.12 --> 4823.96] Now, most often as these sorts of things continue, they show up in much more subtle ways. They show up in sort of unspoken social pressures. -[4823.96 --> 4831.88] Right? One that doesn't apply to us here, so we can use it as a good example. -[4831.88 --> 4835.88] But maybe some of you are familiar with this growing up in certain kinds of churches. -[4835.88 --> 4841.80] Right? If you didn't wear black socks, you got in trouble. -[4841.80 --> 4849.64] Or if you didn't wear a tie to church, right, you would have an elder come up to you afterwards and say, -[4849.64 --> 4855.00] here in the lost and found, we have spare ties. Please put this on before you go in. -[4855.00 --> 4858.92] And we kind of chuckle at it, but like these things happened. -[4858.92 --> 4865.56] Right? This is a new social pressure that's being added. And there's a phrase for this in Latin. -[4865.56 --> 4874.52] It's nova lex, which means new law. Right? And people, this new law is offered to keep people in, -[4874.52 --> 4881.64] but also to keep people out. And this new law is offered to keep people comfortable. -[4882.68 --> 4887.96] Because it's easy to manage. The expectations are clear. And I know exactly which box I have to tick -[4887.96 --> 4897.80] in order to keep these people satisfied. Instead, what's actually happening in this, -[4897.80 --> 4910.84] right, is that the people of God are being reburdened with a law. Right? The gospel, though, -[4910.84 --> 4918.28] doesn't reburden us with new rules in order to satisfy God. Instead, very clearly, the gospel of -[4918.28 --> 4925.08] Jesus Christ says that He lived the life I should have lived. That He has perfectly kept all the -[4925.08 --> 4931.64] commands of God. That the law of God is perfectly fulfilled in the obedience of Jesus Christ. -[4931.64 --> 4938.44] And through our union with Him, by grace through faith, His righteousness is granted to us. -[4939.80 --> 4946.44] It is imputed on us, is the old theological word. Such that now, whenever God looks at you, -[4947.80 --> 4953.80] He doesn't see black socks or no tie. He sees His Son, Jesus Christ. -[4955.08 --> 4963.40] That's the gospel. He sees the perfect righteousness of the spotless Lamb. So that I can stand and say, -[4963.40 --> 4970.52] I am whiter than snow because I have been clothed with Christ. You can stand and say, -[4970.52 --> 4977.88] I am made new because Christ has raised me up in newness of life. That's the first part of the gospel. -[4977.88 --> 4985.48] And then the second part, right? The double imputation here is that my sins have been handed over to Jesus. -[4986.04 --> 4992.36] That He bore the punishment for them on the cross. Right? He is the sacrifice of propitiation. -[4992.36 --> 4995.96] He is the atoning one. 1 John 4 says, -[4995.96 --> 5004.28] And this is love. Not that we loved God, but that He loved us and gave His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. -[5005.72 --> 5010.28] He lived the life I should have lived and died the death that I deserved. -[5011.16 --> 5014.28] And so what we're seeing, right, is that there's nothing that I can do. -[5014.28 --> 5020.76] I'm unable to earn my salvation, so I need the perfect righteousness of Jesus Christ. -[5020.76 --> 5027.40] I am unable to pay the price for my sin, and so I need the perfect sacrifice for Jesus Christ. -[5027.40 --> 5034.44] And because He has paid it all, because He has done it all, we are free from the burdens of the law. -[5034.44 --> 5039.80] And the new command for Christians is to love one another. -[5045.56 --> 5054.44] But remember, I said that there are two versions of the kinds of things that Paul tells us we need to be on the watch out for. -[5054.44 --> 5060.04] And on the one hand, we have these legalistic structures reburdening people with a new law. -[5060.04 --> 5070.04] But equally as dangerous, and I want to suggest actually even more common in the world today, -[5070.04 --> 5081.32] and in and among churches today, is the idea that the gospel doesn't transform us. -[5083.40 --> 5085.64] Okay, this is what we've seen all along in the book of Romans. -[5085.64 --> 5089.80] The gospel is the power of God unto salvation. That's Romans 1.16. -[5090.04 --> 5096.52] And so we are transformed by the renewal of our minds, so we no longer conform to the pattern of this world. -[5096.52 --> 5098.36] That's Romans 12.2. -[5098.36 --> 5101.80] Paul writes explicitly of this very thing in Romans 6. -[5101.80 --> 5104.28] He says, and I think this one's on screen, there you go. -[5105.00 --> 5108.44] Shall we sin because we're not under the law, but under grace? -[5109.00 --> 5110.36] By no means! -[5110.36 --> 5114.36] Don't you know that when you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, -[5114.36 --> 5116.44] you are slaves to the one you obey? -[5116.44 --> 5121.16] Whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness. -[5122.04 --> 5127.80] But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you have come to obey from your heart -[5127.80 --> 5130.52] the pattern of teaching that has now claimed your allegiance. -[5131.08 --> 5134.92] You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness. -[5134.92 --> 5137.24] Right? -[5137.24 --> 5137.64] Hear that. -[5137.64 --> 5142.36] Your union with Jesus, if it is sincere, changes everything. -[5143.96 --> 5149.00] Your union with Jesus, if it is true, redefines your lived reality. -[5149.00 --> 5150.36] Right? -[5150.36 --> 5155.80] Your union with Jesus, because it is made real by the work of the Holy Spirit in you, -[5155.80 --> 5160.68] gives you the very power of God to live the life that He has called you to live. -[5160.68 --> 5164.36] To live the obedient life that He has designed you to live. -[5164.36 --> 5168.28] To live the way that He has called you and made you and reshaped you. -[5168.28 --> 5173.00] The way that He has regenerated you, taken you out of death into life to live. -[5173.00 --> 5181.32] Because Christ has won the victory for you over sin and death, you have overcome all the different ways -[5181.32 --> 5185.16] sin and deathliness are showing up in your life right now. -[5187.00 --> 5196.04] And I really believe, I really believe that one of the greatest sadnesses in the Christian church in the West today -[5196.04 --> 5203.72] is our lack of belief, our lack of faith, our lack of trust in the power of God to transform you -[5204.44 --> 5206.52] by your union with Jesus Christ. -[5208.36 --> 5215.64] But hear this, you can actually really overcome your addictions by the power of God. -[5217.16 --> 5222.60] You can actually really heal your marriages by the power of God. -[5222.60 --> 5227.88] You can actually overcome pornography by the power of God. -[5227.88 --> 5234.76] You are no longer slaves to your desires, whichever way they are oriented or disoriented, -[5234.76 --> 5242.60] because the Holy Spirit in you, right, because of the Holy Spirit in you, temptation only has the power you give it. -[5242.60 --> 5249.40] Even the kind of gossip that slips out of your mouth without a thought -[5249.40 --> 5256.92] can be stopped in you because of your union with Jesus Christ. -[5258.12 --> 5260.60] He makes you able. -[5262.92 --> 5264.04] He makes that real. -[5265.32 --> 5266.68] He makes that possible. -[5266.68 --> 5276.28] And the problem in the world today is that there are teachers who will stand on a stage like this one -[5276.28 --> 5281.72] and tell you that you will always be the way that you currently are and that that's okay. -[5284.28 --> 5288.36] The problem is that there are people who will say that's just who you are -[5288.36 --> 5290.68] and you don't have to change. -[5294.76 --> 5296.44] But if you hear the power of God -[5301.56 --> 5306.76] that breaks my heart -[5306.76 --> 5313.56] because when someone stands before you and says you don't have to be changed, -[5317.40 --> 5322.04] when someone stands before you and says you don't have to be transformed, -[5323.48 --> 5328.36] it breaks my heart because they are robbing you of the power of the gospel. -[5328.36 --> 5333.40] They are robbing you of the power of your union with Jesus Christ. -[5333.40 --> 5337.16] They are robbing you of what he gives in the Holy Spirit. -[5338.44 --> 5338.76] Right? -[5338.76 --> 5344.60] They are robbing you of the truth that he has lived the life I should have lived and died the death that I deserved. -[5344.84 --> 5347.48] They are robbing you of the glory of God, -[5348.36 --> 5353.88] which, as the ancient church father Irenaeus said, is the human being fully alive. -[5353.88 --> 5367.24] They are robbing you of real, authentic, genuine, Christ-shaped, God-filled, Spirit-powered life. -[5371.56 --> 5372.68] And we just settle for it. -[5376.44 --> 5377.40] We just accept it. -[5380.84 --> 5381.88] Because it sounds good. -[5381.88 --> 5385.56] It sounds a little bit easier, actually. -[5390.04 --> 5391.08] It's comfortable. -[5393.40 --> 5396.12] I don't actually have to change. -[5397.96 --> 5405.48] See, on both sides, whether it's illegalism, which is a re-burdening of a nova lex, a new law, -[5405.64 --> 5410.68] or antinomialism, which is a rejection of laws and rules, -[5410.68 --> 5414.76] or whether it is a denying of the power of God to transform lives. -[5416.04 --> 5422.84] All of these ideas on both sides miss the truth that the command of Jesus to love one another -[5423.08 --> 5428.52] informs our new obedience and the new possibility of our obedience. -[5428.84 --> 5433.40] Loving one another starts with being transformed to be like him. -[5433.40 --> 5437.96] Loving one another starts with the truth that you are not your own, but you have been bought. -[5438.76 --> 5440.20] You have been paid for. -[5440.44 --> 5442.96] You belong to Jesus Christ. -[5443.16 --> 5445.84] That's the gospel of God's love for us. -[5445.84 --> 5456.00] Loving one another is then calling us all to love each other in the same way, -[5456.00 --> 5458.40] in the way of sacrifice. -[5461.84 --> 5469.92] Sacrificing for each other, but also sacrificing ourselves, our own pride, -[5469.92 --> 5482.32] our own privilege, our own status, our own desires, our own flesh, taking up our cross daily and following after Jesus is the act of love. -[5483.52 --> 5488.96] Proclaiming the truth of the gospel is a call to this kind of love. -[5488.96 --> 5492.24] Proclaiming the truth of the gospel is a call to this kind of love. -[5492.24 --> 5501.60] Paul says, watch out, because their false teaching causes divisions and creates obstacles. -[5505.60 --> 5512.88] The only way to see clearly the truth and the real gospel, -[5512.88 --> 5518.68] the only way to stand against the division and to step over the obstacle, -[5518.96 --> 5529.12] is to be intimately and deeply filled with Jesus Christ and intimately and deeply familiar with his word. -[5532.56 --> 5538.16] Because you see, the gospel itself is enough of a stumbling block for people to trip over. -[5539.20 --> 5543.68] 1 Corinthians 1 says that the gospel is foolishness and a stumbling block. -[5544.64 --> 5546.64] We don't need to add to it. -[5546.64 --> 5548.64] 1 Corinthians 1 says that the gospel is not a place of love. -[5548.64 --> 5548.96] 1 Corinthians 1 says that the gospel is not a place of love. -[5548.96 --> 5556.96] And of these kinds of teachers, Paul says, such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. -[5558.16 --> 5559.04] And notice that, right? -[5559.04 --> 5564.96] When he says they're serving their own appetites, it means they're serving their own desires, their own ends, their own priorities. -[5565.60 --> 5568.96] And we saw this already, all the way back in Romans 1. -[5568.96 --> 5572.16] If you have ears to hear and eyes to see, right? -[5572.16 --> 5582.16] In Romans 1, we saw that sin starts with a desire that causes someone to exchange the truth of God for a lie. -[5582.16 --> 5584.72] Romans 1, 24 and 25. -[5586.56 --> 5594.04] No matter how good it sounds, whether by smooth talk and flattery, they are deceiving the minds of God's people. -[5594.04 --> 5598.34] And it denies the gospel. -[5600.12 --> 5601.32] Denies the gospel. -[5602.28 --> 5606.18] And that is not good. -[5606.96 --> 5608.38] And so watch out. -[5609.14 --> 5610.14] Watch out. -[5610.84 --> 5616.20] Paul says, instead, I want you to be wise about what is good and innocent about what is evil. -[5616.20 --> 5625.64] And so as we go this morning into whatever this week brings for you, know that you go in Jesus. -[5626.64 --> 5626.86] Right? -[5626.94 --> 5628.50] Go united to him. -[5628.86 --> 5631.04] Go transformed by him. -[5631.60 --> 5636.22] Go clinging to the gospel, which is the truth that Jesus clings to you. -[5636.22 --> 5642.48] Go clinging to Jesus in union with him and watch your life be transformed. -[5642.48 --> 5647.02] And go in the word. -[5647.86 --> 5655.90] Go deeply rooted and established in what God has said to us in the very voice of Jesus for our lives of faith. -[5655.90 --> 5659.56] So that you may test and know. -[5659.76 --> 5661.82] So that you may guard the good deposit. -[5661.98 --> 5672.62] So that you may watch out for these teachers who would rob you of the joy of the Lord. -[5673.48 --> 5675.96] Who would rob you of his gospel. -[5675.96 --> 5685.18] And then go in and with this community of faith. -[5686.96 --> 5688.22] Go in Jesus. -[5689.26 --> 5690.20] In the word. -[5691.06 --> 5692.20] And in the community. -[5693.34 --> 5697.12] And then go under the banner. -[5697.66 --> 5705.04] Under the truth that the God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. -[5705.04 --> 5708.58] I don't know how many of you remember Genesis 3.13. -[5708.82 --> 5711.44] But in that very beginning of the story. -[5711.54 --> 5720.44] God promises that the son of Eve would come who would crush the head of the serpent. -[5722.74 --> 5724.04] Satan is crushed. -[5724.80 --> 5726.16] He is being crushed. -[5726.16 --> 5728.52] And he will be crushed. -[5728.52 --> 5732.62] This is the gospel of your peace. -[5733.08 --> 5735.64] And so go in Jesus. -[5736.12 --> 5737.16] In his word. -[5737.48 --> 5738.48] And in the community. -[5739.26 --> 5739.80] Knowing. -[5741.50 --> 5742.54] Knowing. -[5743.22 --> 5747.12] That he has won the victory. -[5748.10 --> 5752.18] That he has given you his gospel. -[5752.58 --> 5755.76] And that changes everything. -[5755.76 --> 5756.76] That he has given you his gospel. -[5756.76 --> 5757.70] Someone needs to say amen. -[5759.06 --> 5760.40] Let's stand and pray together. -[5768.78 --> 5770.32] Lord Jesus Christ. -[5770.56 --> 5775.04] You have promised transformation by your spirit. -[5775.18 --> 5780.96] You have promised that we would be made new in the hearing and in the believing of your word. -[5780.96 --> 5786.80] You have promised that we would be so filled with to overflowing with your love. -[5786.88 --> 5790.30] That we would be sent out in the power of your name. -[5790.42 --> 5795.34] And so send us out in the power of your name. -[5796.12 --> 5800.38] Send us out deeply convicted of the truth of the gospel. -[5800.84 --> 5806.42] Send us out deeply convicted of our union with you that changes everything about who we are. -[5806.42 --> 5809.42] So that we may not be burdened again with a new law. -[5809.52 --> 5815.40] But also so that we may be transformed into newness of life to be like you. -[5818.28 --> 5820.14] Hear our prayer. -[5820.14 --> 5823.14] We pray in Jesus name. -[5823.94 --> 5824.38] Amen. -[5825.30 --> 5825.74] Amen. -[5836.42 --> 5857.64] My hope is built on nothing less Than Jesus' blood and righteousness -[5857.64 --> 5865.04] I dare not trust the sweetest friend -[5865.04 --> 5873.04] But wholly trust in Jesus' name -[5873.04 --> 5883.46] My hope is built on nothing less -[5883.46 --> 5887.76] In Jesus' blood and righteousness -[5887.76 --> 5895.46] I dare not trust the sweetest friend -[5895.46 --> 5902.46] But wholly trust in Jesus' name -[5902.46 --> 5910.46] Christ alone, cornerstone -[5910.46 --> 5917.88] Weak made strong in the Savior's love -[5917.88 --> 5928.46] Through the storm He is Lord, Lord of all -[5928.46 --> 5939.88] When darkness seems to hide His face -[5939.88 --> 5945.88] I rest on His unchanging grace -[5945.88 --> 5953.30] In every high and stormy gale -[5953.30 --> 5959.30] My anchor holds within the veil -[5959.30 --> 5966.72] My anchor holds within the veil -[5966.72 --> 5974.14] Christ alone, cornerstone -[5974.14 --> 5980.14] Weak made strong in the Savior's love -[5980.14 --> 5992.14] Through the storm He is Lord, Lord of all -[5992.14 --> 6001.56] When He shall come with trumpet sound -[6001.56 --> 6007.56] Oh, may I then in Him be found -[6007.56 --> 6014.56] Dressed in His righteousness alone -[6014.56 --> 6021.98] Fall, let's stand before the throne -[6021.98 --> 6029.40] Christ alone, Lord of all -[6029.40 --> 6042.82] Christ alone, cornerstone -[6042.82 --> 6050.24] Weak made strong in the Savior's love -[6050.24 --> 6055.66] Christ alone, cornerstone -[6055.66 --> 6060.66] Weak made strong in the Savior's love -[6060.66 --> 6061.66] In the Savior's love -[6061.66 --> 6067.66] Through the storm He is Lord, Lord of all -[6067.66 --> 6068.66] Christ alone, cornerstone -[6068.66 --> 6075.08] Weak made strong in the Savior's love -[6075.08 --> 6076.08] Christ alone, cornerstone -[6076.08 --> 6077.08] Weak made strong in the Savior's love -[6077.08 --> 6081.08] Christ alone, cornerstone -[6081.08 --> 6082.08] Weak made strong in the Savior's love -[6082.08 --> 6086.08] Weak made strong in the Savior's love -[6086.08 --> 6090.08] Through the storm He is Lord, Lord of all -[6090.08 --> 6095.08] He is Lord, Lord of all -[6095.08 --> 6125.06] Lord of all -[6125.06 --> 6127.06] Weak made strong in the Savior's love -[6127.06 --> 6128.88] Just an encouragement, go with two -[6128.88 --> 6131.14] Maybe three invitations -[6131.14 --> 6134.98] First, stick around following our service -[6134.98 --> 6137.12] To gather in community -[6137.12 --> 6139.10] There will be some refreshments available -[6139.10 --> 6141.04] Spend some time together -[6141.04 --> 6143.50] Sharing what God has been up to in your life -[6143.50 --> 6145.62] Asking for prayer, receiving prayer -[6145.62 --> 6146.90] Celebrating, giving thanks -[6146.90 --> 6148.52] And expressing need -[6148.52 --> 6150.78] If you would like specific prayers -[6150.78 --> 6152.90] There will be someone up front here -[6152.90 --> 6154.74] With a yellow name tag on -[6154.74 --> 6155.68] They would love to meet you -[6155.68 --> 6157.54] And lead you in prayer there -[6157.54 --> 6159.32] That is your second invitation -[6159.32 --> 6160.70] And then thirdly -[6160.70 --> 6161.88] Your last invitation -[6161.88 --> 6165.14] Please, if you are curious -[6165.14 --> 6166.62] About Safe Families Canada -[6166.62 --> 6167.80] And the work that they do -[6167.80 --> 6171.60] We'll say in 15 minutes -[6171.60 --> 6173.50] We'll start the presentation -[6173.50 --> 6174.78] In the multi-purpose room -[6174.78 --> 6176.58] So there's a chance to grab a coffee -[6176.58 --> 6177.96] And connect with a couple people -[6177.96 --> 6179.72] And then we'll move over that way -[6179.72 --> 6181.40] To help facilitate that -[6181.40 --> 6182.46] I need someone who knows -[6182.46 --> 6183.56] How to make an Apple -[6183.56 --> 6185.72] A MacBook computer -[6185.72 --> 6188.38] Work on the projector in there -[6188.38 --> 6189.58] Through screen mirroring -[6189.58 --> 6190.82] So talk to me after service -[6190.82 --> 6191.70] If you know how to do that -[6191.70 --> 6194.32] As you go, receive -[6194.32 --> 6196.46] The blessing of our God -[6196.46 --> 6199.98] God go before you -[6199.98 --> 6200.94] To lead you -[6200.94 --> 6202.78] God go behind you -[6202.78 --> 6203.70] To protect you -[6203.70 --> 6205.44] God go beneath you -[6205.44 --> 6206.34] To support you -[6206.34 --> 6207.96] And God go beside you -[6207.96 --> 6209.00] To befriend you -[6209.00 --> 6210.88] Do not be afraid -[6210.88 --> 6212.46] But let the blessing of God -[6212.46 --> 6213.40] Come upon you today -[6213.40 --> 6215.04] Do not be afraid -[6215.04 --> 6217.76] But go in peace -[6217.76 --> 6221.12] To love and serve the Lord -[6221.12 --> 6222.82] Amen -[6239.00 --> 6242.80] You're the Lion of Judah -[6242.80 --> 6244.98] The Lamb who was slain -[6244.98 --> 6246.82] You ascended to heaven -[6246.82 --> 6248.92] And evermore will reign -[6248.92 --> 6250.90] At the end of the age -[6250.90 --> 6253.02] When the earth you reclaimed -[6253.02 --> 6256.66] They will gather the nations before you -[6256.66 --> 6258.98] And the eyes of all men -[6258.98 --> 6261.12] Will be fixed on the Lamb -[6261.12 --> 6263.50] Who was crucified -[6263.50 --> 6268.28] With wisdom and mercy and justice -[6268.28 --> 6272.74] You'll reign at your Father's side -[6272.74 --> 6275.24] And the angels will cry -[6275.24 --> 6279.38] Hail the Lamb -[6279.38 --> 6282.96] Who was slain for the world -[6282.96 --> 6286.26] Ruling power -[6286.26 --> 6290.76] And the earth will reply -[6290.76 --> 6294.26] You shall reign -[6294.26 --> 6298.64] As the King of all kings -[6298.64 --> 6300.84] And the Lord of all kings -[6300.84 --> 6310.34] There's a shield in our hand -[6310.34 --> 6312.42] And a sword in our side -[6312.42 --> 6314.42] There's a fire in our spirit -[6314.42 --> 6316.26] That cannot be denied -[6316.26 --> 6318.58] As the Father has told us -[6318.58 --> 6320.38] For these you have died -[6320.38 --> 6324.02] For the nations that gather before you -[6324.02 --> 6326.24] And the ears of all men -[6326.24 --> 6328.30] Need to hear of the Lamb -[6328.30 --> 6330.88] Who was crucified -[6330.88 --> 6334.20] Who descended to hell -[6334.20 --> 6336.24] Yet was raised up to reign -[6336.24 --> 6339.62] At His Father's side -[6339.62 --> 6342.18] And the angels will cry -[6342.18 --> 6345.74] Hail the Lamb -[6345.74 --> 6349.88] Who was slain for the world -[6349.88 --> 6353.22] Ruling power -[6353.22 --> 6357.48] And the earth will reply -[6357.48 --> 6362.48] You shall reign -[6362.48 --> 6365.10] As the King of all kings -[6365.10 --> 6367.14] And the Lord of all lords -[6367.14 --> 6369.12] And the angels will cry -[6369.12 --> 6373.48] Hail the Lamb -[6373.48 --> 6376.72] Who was slain for the world -[6376.72 --> 6379.48] Ruling power -[6379.48 --> 6384.26] And the earth will reply -[6384.26 --> 6389.26] You shall reign -[6389.26 --> 6392.02] As the King of all kings -[6392.02 --> 6394.18] And the Lord of all lords -[6394.18 --> 6396.00] As the King of all kings -[6396.00 --> 6400.10] And the Lord of all lords -[6400.10 --> 6401.18] Go in peace -[6401.18 --> 6410.10] . -[6422.64 --> 6424.94] 0t -[6424.94 --> 6431.94] so -[6431.94 --> 6461.92] Let's go. -[6461.94 --> 6491.92] Let's go. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, June 23, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, June 23, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d6929698679b2ca388c6383e3737598c50e26456..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, June 23, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,65 +0,0 @@ -• Repeated thank-yous -• Repeated good mornings -• Discussion of forgiveness and letting people get away with their actions -• Mention of cancellation for wrongdoing, even if willing to change -• Tribalization and division -• The importance of forgiveness in reconciliation -• Relationship between forgiveness and humility -• Scripture's emphasis on forgiving as we have been forgiven -• Case study: the woman who anointed Jesus' feet (Luke 7) -• Connection between being forgiven and loving others -• Contrast between those with much or little to forgive -• The woman's sins are forgiven by Jesus -• Simon, a religious leader, is critical of the woman and contrasts her with his own perceived righteousness -• Forgiveness requires faith and a willingness to receive it -• People who feel profoundly forgiven will love profoundly -• Unforgiveness leads to death and keeps us trapped in lies, unawareness, and relational dysfunction -• Receiving God's forgiveness requires acknowledging our brokenness -• Forgiveness is essential for receiving and giving love like Jesus -• Forgiveness isn't forgetting, but rather acknowledging and processing pain -• Memory plays a role in forgiveness, as it's part of understanding and healing from hurt -• Genuine confession and accountability are necessary for true forgiveness and healing -• Forgiveness is not just about feeling, but also making a choice to forgive despite difficult emotions -• Humility and choosing love over being right can redefine broken moments and lead to forgiveness -• The need to surrender to grace, love of others, and God's presence -• Jesus' teaching on forgiveness, including "they know not what they do" on the cross -• The distinction between genuine forgiveness and simply letting go or minimizing sin -• Naming and confronting sin in order to truly forgive -• Forgiveness as a process that involves working towards health and healing -• A critique of superficial apologies and the importance of holding wrongdoers accountable -• Rachel's words and tone on forgiveness -• Forgiveness as a discipline and practice, not a one-time event -• Returning justice to God, allowing Him to carry out vengeance -• Desire for good instead of evil, freeing us from seeking harm -• Consequences for bad behavior, including 175 years in jail for Dr. Nassar -• The hope of good for those who have harmed others -• Forgiveness as an unmerited gift that is given, not earned -• Discussion of forgiveness in relation to Christianity -• Importance of forgiving others despite their flaws -• Personal story of forgiving a parent with flaws and learning to love them -• Understanding that forgiveness is not just for others, but also for oneself -• Realizing that everyone has flaws and is deserving of forgiveness -• Bitterness and unforgiveness can destroy us -• The importance of forgiving others as Christ forgives us -• Confessing sin and pain to others for healing and forgiveness -• Learning to love much through forgiveness and community -• The process of forgiveness is hard, but necessary for freedom and healing -• The importance of owning and confessing one's pain and mistakes to God and others -• The 12-step program as a model for recovery and healing, particularly in making amends for past harm -• The process of forgiveness and restoration, which can be a lifelong journey -• The power of confession and community in promoting healing and growth -• A personal story about experiencing the power of forgiveness in one's own life -• Community members reveal and confess their sins -• People from all walks of life feel compelled to break free from old ways -• Stolen goods are returned, enemies reconciled, marriages healed, crimes confessed, and grudges let go -• Forgiveness is discussed as a key to the kingdom -• The importance of choosing to use forgiveness and extend God's grace to others -• A prayer is offered for forgiveness, repentance, and healing -• A hymn is sung praising Jesus Christ as the living Lord -• Bible passages and quotes -• Kate Bowler's blessings -• God's blessing and justice -• Forgiveness and peace -• The Lord's days of famine, darkness, and preparation -• Prophecies from Ezekiel, David, and Elijah -• Salvation and Jehovah \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, June 23, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, June 23, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6b7f25980141a88f47850247d98631765bb9441b..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, June 23, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1119 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 488.00] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 599.98] Thank you. -[600.00 --> 629.98] Thank you. -[630.00 --> 659.98] Thank you. -[660.00 --> 689.98] Thank you. -[690.00 --> 719.98] Thank you. -[720.00 --> 749.98] Thank you. -[750.00 --> 779.98] Thank you. -[780.00 --> 809.98] Thank you. -[809.98 --> 839.96] Thank you. -[839.96 --> 869.94] Thank you. -[869.94 --> 899.92] Thank you. -[899.94 --> 929.92] Thank you. -[929.92 --> 959.90] Thank you. -[959.90 --> 989.88] Amen to that. -[989.88 --> 1019.88] Thank you. -[1019.88 --> 1049.88] -[1049.88 --> 1079.86] Thank you. -[1079.88 --> 1109.86] Thank you. -[1109.88 --> 1139.86] Good morning. -[1139.86 --> 1169.86] Thank you. -[1169.86 --> 1199.84] Thank you. -[1199.86 --> 1201.86] Thank you. -[1229.86 --> 1259.84] Thank you. -[1259.86 --> 1289.84] Thank you. -[1289.86 --> 1319.84] Thank you. -[1319.86 --> 1349.84] Thank you. -[1349.86 --> 1379.84] Thank you. -[1379.86 --> 1409.84] Thank you. -[1409.86 --> 1439.84] Thank you. -[1439.86 --> 1469.84] Thank you. -[1469.86 --> 1499.84] Thank you. -[1499.86 --> 1529.84] Thank you. -[1529.86 --> 1559.84] Thank you. -[1559.86 --> 1589.84] Thank you. -[1589.84 --> 1619.82] Thank you. -[1619.84 --> 1649.82] Thank you. -[1649.84 --> 1679.82] Thank you. -[1679.84 --> 1709.82] Thank you. -[1709.84 --> 1739.82] Thank you. -[1739.84 --> 1769.82] Thank you. -[1769.82 --> 1799.80] I haven't. -[1799.80 --> 1829.80] Thank you. -[1829.80 --> 1859.78] Thank you. -[1859.80 --> 1889.78] Thank you. -[1889.80 --> 1919.78] Please rise. -[1919.78 --> 1949.76] Thank you. -[1949.76 --> 1979.74] Thank you. -[1979.76 --> 2009.74] Thank you. -[2009.74 --> 2039.72] Thank you. -[2039.72 --> 2069.70] Thank you. -[2069.70 --> 2099.68] Thank you. -[2099.70 --> 2129.68] Thank you. -[2129.70 --> 2159.68] Thank you. -[2159.68 --> 2189.66] Thank you. -[2189.66 --> 2219.64] Thank you. -[2219.66 --> 2249.64] Thank you. -[2249.66 --> 2279.64] Thank you. -[2279.66 --> 2309.64] Thank you. -[2309.66 --> 2339.64] Thank you. -[2339.64 --> 2369.62] Thank you. -[2369.62 --> 2399.62] Thank you. -[2399.62 --> 2429.60] Thank you. -[2429.60 --> 2459.58] Thank you. -[2459.60 --> 2489.58] Thank you. -[2489.58 --> 2519.56] Thank you. -[2519.58 --> 2549.56] Thank you. -[2549.58 --> 2579.56] Thank you. -[2579.58 --> 2609.56] Thank you. -[2609.58 --> 2639.56] Thank you. -[2639.56 --> 2669.56] Thank you. -[2669.56 --> 2699.54] Thank you. -[2699.54 --> 2729.54] Thank you. -[2729.54 --> 2759.52] Thank you. -[2759.52 --> 2789.50] Thank you. -[2789.50 --> 2819.48] In this. -[2819.48 --> 2849.48] Thank you. -[2849.48 --> 2879.46] Thank you. -[2879.48 --> 2909.46] Good morning, -[2909.46 --> 2939.44] You lost your voice. -[2939.44 --> 2969.44] Thank you. -[2969.44 --> 2999.44] Thank you. -[2999.44 --> 3029.42] Thank you. -[3029.44 --> 3059.42] Thank you. -[3059.42 --> 3089.40] Thank you. -[3089.40 --> 3119.38] Thank you. -[3119.38 --> 3149.36] Thank you. -[3149.36 --> 3179.36] Thank you. -[3179.36 --> 3209.34] Thank you. -[3209.34 --> 3239.34] You. -[3239.34 --> 3269.34] Thank you. -[3269.34 --> 3299.32] Thank you. -[3299.34 --> 3329.32] Thank you. -[3329.34 --> 3359.32] Thank you. -[3359.34 --> 3389.32] Thank you. -[3389.34 --> 3419.32] All the stuff. -[3419.34 --> 3449.32] Good morning. -[3449.34 --> 3479.34] Thank you. -[3479.34 --> 3509.34] -[3509.34 --> 3539.34] I don't think you're, -[3539.34 --> 3569.32] you're, you know, -[3569.32 --> 3599.30] Harpers, you're, you know, but we've got a little hero, but I think of, you. -[3599.30 --> 3602.86] The article goes on to kind of describe it as when we forgive, -[3602.98 --> 3607.32] it feels like we're letting people get away with the stuff they did. -[3607.92 --> 3612.78] And if you're in the wrong, well, cancel you, even if you're willing to change. -[3614.02 --> 3617.70] It's kind of the world we live in a little bit, so tribalized. -[3618.68 --> 3623.12] Now, forgiveness, quick forgiveness can be a problem when it doesn't include justice, -[3623.26 --> 3625.22] and I think that's what that's poking at a bit. -[3625.22 --> 3630.22] But without forgiveness, reconciliation is not possible. -[3631.26 --> 3634.36] It only keeps divisiveness going. -[3635.22 --> 3637.90] And that's why Scripture says, forgive as you've been forgiven, -[3638.20 --> 3642.92] because it recognizes that we all need forgiveness in order to see healing. -[3644.02 --> 3647.82] Forgiveness is an essential to our relational fabric of our lives, -[3647.98 --> 3651.46] our relationship with God, and our relationships with one another. -[3651.46 --> 3658.04] Because without that, we won't stay humble knowing that we need forgiveness too. -[3659.42 --> 3664.42] And the people who know how to forgive, they know how to receive forgiveness. -[3664.58 --> 3666.54] Those two go hand in hand. -[3668.04 --> 3670.42] So, we're going to jump a little bit into some Scriptures, -[3671.20 --> 3674.90] and I'm going to offer you some ideas about what forgiveness isn't, -[3675.00 --> 3676.54] and then what forgiveness is. -[3676.54 --> 3679.98] Matthew 6, we read this. -[3680.90 --> 3681.94] Hopefully it's all up there. -[3682.04 --> 3682.38] Ah, good. -[3684.04 --> 3684.82] Jesus says, -[3684.94 --> 3687.46] And forgive us our debts, our trespasses, our sins. -[3687.54 --> 3691.42] Forgive us our debts, as we have forgiven those who have sinned, or are debtors. -[3692.14 --> 3695.66] And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. -[3695.68 --> 3696.22] And then this. -[3697.06 --> 3700.46] For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, -[3700.56 --> 3702.70] your heavenly Father will also forgive you. -[3702.70 --> 3706.32] But if you do not forgive others their sins, -[3706.52 --> 3709.72] your Father will not forgive your sins. -[3711.62 --> 3713.70] That ought to freak us out a little bit. -[3715.18 --> 3717.58] That ought to stop us in our tracks. -[3718.74 --> 3723.78] If I don't forgive somebody else, I won't be forgiven. -[3724.64 --> 3727.62] And then my prayers are kind of a waste of time. -[3729.74 --> 3731.68] My sins will be held against me. -[3732.70 --> 3733.74] That ought to stop us. -[3734.86 --> 3736.58] How does that even go? -[3738.02 --> 3738.26] Right? -[3739.00 --> 3742.02] I'd like to look at a case study out of the life of Jesus there. -[3742.32 --> 3746.22] The case study of the woman who comes to the Pharisee's house, -[3746.48 --> 3749.56] and she anoints Jesus' feet, and then she wipes his feet with her hair. -[3750.00 --> 3752.76] Let's look at what Luke says on that. -[3752.76 --> 3759.02] When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, this is Luke 7, 39, -[3759.38 --> 3761.00] he said to himself, -[3761.82 --> 3765.08] if this man were a prophet, he would know who was touching him -[3765.08 --> 3769.06] and what kind of woman she is, that she is a sinner. -[3769.06 --> 3773.14] Jesus answered him, this Pharisee, -[3773.22 --> 3774.32] Simon, I have something to tell you. -[3774.46 --> 3775.44] Tell me, teacher, he said. -[3775.94 --> 3778.58] All right, two people owed money to a certain moneylender. -[3778.82 --> 3781.88] One owed him 500 denarii, the other 50. -[3782.20 --> 3783.86] Neither of them had the money to pay him back, -[3784.02 --> 3785.68] so he forgave the debts of both. -[3785.80 --> 3787.26] Now, which will love him more? -[3788.22 --> 3789.10] And Simon replied, -[3789.10 --> 3790.84] I suppose the one who had the bigger debt forgiven. -[3791.38 --> 3793.72] You have judged correctly, Jesus said. -[3794.54 --> 3795.60] And I love this picture. -[3795.74 --> 3797.14] Just see it in your mind here. -[3797.48 --> 3799.04] Then he turned toward the woman. -[3799.14 --> 3800.68] So now they're looking at the woman, -[3800.78 --> 3801.90] but he's still talking to Simon. -[3802.14 --> 3803.32] Then he turned toward the woman, -[3803.40 --> 3804.08] and he said to Simon, -[3804.40 --> 3806.02] do you see this woman? -[3807.72 --> 3809.32] It's a real honest question. -[3809.44 --> 3811.38] Do you actually see her? -[3812.74 --> 3814.62] That's more than just a piece of dirt. -[3816.10 --> 3817.24] Do you see her? -[3817.24 --> 3819.26] I came into your house. -[3819.60 --> 3821.10] You did not give me any water for my feet, -[3821.16 --> 3822.04] which would have been customary, -[3822.20 --> 3823.80] but she wet my feet with her tears -[3823.80 --> 3824.80] and wiped them with her hair. -[3825.20 --> 3826.40] You did not give me a kiss, -[3826.46 --> 3827.18] which is a greeting, -[3827.58 --> 3829.24] but this woman from the time I answered -[3829.24 --> 3830.52] has not stopped kissing my feet. -[3830.84 --> 3832.62] You did not put oil on my head, -[3832.74 --> 3833.82] which was also customary, -[3833.98 --> 3835.62] and she has poured perfume on my feet. -[3836.24 --> 3838.50] Therefore, I tell you, -[3838.60 --> 3840.60] her many sins have been forgiven, -[3841.44 --> 3843.84] as her great love has shown. -[3844.60 --> 3846.98] But whoever has been forgiven little, -[3847.24 --> 3848.82] loves little. -[3848.92 --> 3850.06] Let that one sink in. -[3850.38 --> 3852.18] Whoever has been forgiven little, -[3852.46 --> 3853.88] loves little. -[3854.60 --> 3855.46] Then Jesus said, -[3855.52 --> 3856.50] your sins are forgiven. -[3857.52 --> 3859.84] The other guests began to say among themselves, -[3859.98 --> 3862.10] who is this who even forgives sins? -[3862.84 --> 3863.80] And Jesus said to the woman, -[3863.92 --> 3865.10] your faith has saved you. -[3866.04 --> 3867.40] Go in peace. -[3868.42 --> 3869.46] And here we see Simon, -[3869.46 --> 3870.92] a religious leader, -[3871.30 --> 3873.12] who certainly doesn't put himself -[3873.12 --> 3874.92] in the same place as this woman. -[3875.88 --> 3877.16] What a sinner. -[3877.38 --> 3878.46] And I'm going to ask you, -[3878.58 --> 3880.88] picture where you might do something similar. -[3882.30 --> 3883.38] What a sinner. -[3883.68 --> 3884.70] I'm not in the same place. -[3884.80 --> 3885.56] And this Jesus, -[3885.68 --> 3886.02] look at him. -[3886.20 --> 3887.08] He engages with her. -[3887.12 --> 3888.08] He lets her touch him. -[3888.14 --> 3889.80] What kind of religious leader is he? -[3889.80 --> 3892.76] And we see this religious leader's reaction to sin -[3892.76 --> 3895.14] versus this clearly sinful woman. -[3895.40 --> 3896.46] Or we might say, -[3896.78 --> 3898.86] we have one blind to his own sins -[3898.86 --> 3902.30] versus one who knows her sins only too well. -[3904.66 --> 3906.76] And only one of these people is forgiven. -[3907.68 --> 3908.20] Guess who? -[3910.44 --> 3912.46] Forgive as you've been forgiven. -[3912.46 --> 3915.82] And now here's the thought. -[3917.48 --> 3920.96] But if you don't think you've been forgiven profoundly, -[3922.20 --> 3922.94] profoundly, -[3923.54 --> 3926.62] you won't know how to forgive profoundly. -[3927.32 --> 3931.02] And you then won't know how to love profoundly. -[3933.40 --> 3935.40] Imagine the desperation of this woman -[3935.40 --> 3936.58] coming into this house. -[3936.68 --> 3938.08] She went into the house of the Pharisee -[3938.08 --> 3939.52] knowing full well how they felt about her. -[3940.14 --> 3941.74] But she went in with her sins, -[3941.74 --> 3942.58] with her desperation. -[3942.80 --> 3944.84] She went in to see Jesus. -[3945.52 --> 3947.74] Her tears flowing in an act of worship -[3947.74 --> 3950.60] because she sees the possibility -[3950.60 --> 3952.70] of grace with Jesus. -[3954.30 --> 3957.64] And that draws her more than her fear of the judgment. -[3959.02 --> 3961.46] For those who have been forgiven much, -[3961.98 --> 3964.90] well, there's great love and great grace available. -[3965.32 --> 3967.22] But whoever has been forgiven little, -[3967.60 --> 3968.62] loves little. -[3970.52 --> 3971.42] And I don't want to ask you, -[3971.42 --> 3973.86] do you feel profoundly forgiven? -[3978.38 --> 3980.84] I think it's what we need to be hearing alongside of Simon. -[3981.02 --> 3983.64] We need to hear that we've been forgiven much -[3983.64 --> 3986.58] in order to make us desperate enough -[3986.58 --> 3989.22] to be receiving and open to profound forgiveness. -[3989.64 --> 3991.82] That's what you actually need. -[3991.82 --> 3994.62] Not just a little prayer, -[3994.76 --> 3995.98] okay, Lord, forgive me of my sins, -[3996.04 --> 3997.06] whatever they might be. -[4000.36 --> 4002.28] Because with that comes profound love. -[4004.46 --> 4006.18] Much love, as the Scripture says here. -[4007.18 --> 4009.06] And you can hear a sign, -[4009.14 --> 4011.04] are you saying I'm as bad as her? -[4011.04 --> 4012.04] Yeah. -[4012.04 --> 4013.04] Yeah. -[4013.46 --> 4014.04] Yeah. -[4014.04 --> 4020.46] All have profoundly sinned and fall short of the glory of God. -[4020.46 --> 4021.04] That's Scripture. -[4021.58 --> 4024.68] Jesus died not because of your little bit of sinfulness. -[4025.00 --> 4027.30] He died because your sins were so great, -[4027.52 --> 4029.36] it demanded His death. -[4030.68 --> 4031.66] Do you believe that? -[4033.78 --> 4036.44] Do you believe Jesus had to die -[4036.44 --> 4038.62] because your sin? -[4038.62 --> 4048.08] You know, when we read through the Gospels, -[4048.18 --> 4050.94] we see the centrality of forgiveness for everyone. -[4051.26 --> 4054.68] It's not, you never come across someone who didn't need it badly. -[4055.34 --> 4057.86] Forgiveness is essential to our very lives. -[4058.10 --> 4060.26] And if we don't see that, we can't receive it, -[4060.40 --> 4062.82] and we won't know how to give it. -[4064.80 --> 4066.06] Unforgiveness is death. -[4066.06 --> 4069.24] It keeps us trapped in lies, in unawareness, -[4069.46 --> 4070.84] in relational dysfunction. -[4071.46 --> 4074.38] You need to forgive, and you need to receive forgiveness. -[4074.66 --> 4074.90] Both. -[4075.14 --> 4076.66] You can't receive God's forgiveness -[4076.66 --> 4079.62] without knowing the depth of your brokenness. -[4080.04 --> 4080.92] How's that going? -[4085.58 --> 4088.28] And only then will you be able to forgive profound brokenness -[4088.28 --> 4089.48] that harms you. -[4092.16 --> 4094.64] In that honesty, we can then come to the Father -[4094.64 --> 4096.62] and then begin to love and forgive like Him. -[4097.74 --> 4099.66] Now, let me say a few things about -[4099.66 --> 4101.92] some things that forgiveness isn't. -[4103.16 --> 4105.36] Forgiveness isn't forgetting, right? -[4105.58 --> 4107.26] You've heard the phrase, forgive and forget. -[4107.88 --> 4109.62] It's even a title of a very good book. -[4111.04 --> 4112.74] We are people who remember. -[4114.10 --> 4118.06] Although I caution you not to replace the word remember with rehearse. -[4118.42 --> 4119.62] Forgive and rehearse. -[4119.78 --> 4122.78] Rehearse the wrong done to you over and over and over again. -[4122.78 --> 4125.12] That's not what we're talking about here at all. -[4125.50 --> 4129.32] Where you actually stew on and relive the events you claim to forgive. -[4130.68 --> 4134.28] But, memory is part of the pain of forgiveness. -[4135.28 --> 4137.76] The couple who live with the deep pain of betrayal -[4137.76 --> 4139.44] don't forget the betrayal. -[4140.14 --> 4141.52] They learn to love again. -[4141.58 --> 4141.82] How? -[4142.06 --> 4143.22] With the pain. -[4144.82 --> 4146.20] With that pain. -[4146.20 --> 4149.86] And that requires honesty. -[4150.02 --> 4151.22] And that requires accountability. -[4151.56 --> 4153.06] And that likely requires counseling. -[4153.40 --> 4155.34] And there's a path for healing that is needed. -[4155.72 --> 4159.06] Forgiveness isn't simply tossing the pain aside. -[4160.60 --> 4163.10] Folks, I've seen marriages over the years of being a pastor -[4163.10 --> 4164.60] survive and thrive -[4164.60 --> 4167.98] when genuine confession leads to genuine forgiveness -[4167.98 --> 4169.76] and long-term healing. -[4169.96 --> 4170.60] Is it easy? -[4170.72 --> 4171.70] It is not. -[4171.70 --> 4174.26] And the one who is wrong -[4174.26 --> 4175.68] needs to be deeply aware -[4175.68 --> 4178.66] of how much forgiveness they need too. -[4180.36 --> 4182.18] Because then you can stand together -[4182.18 --> 4183.56] in your brokenness. -[4185.82 --> 4187.34] Another thing forgiveness isn't. -[4188.84 --> 4190.50] Forgiveness is not merely a feeling. -[4191.72 --> 4192.84] There will be times -[4192.84 --> 4194.32] when we will choose to forgive -[4194.32 --> 4195.72] even though our feelings say otherwise. -[4197.48 --> 4199.64] Anyone here ever have a nasty fight -[4199.64 --> 4200.58] with someone they love? -[4202.36 --> 4203.44] No, just me? -[4204.24 --> 4204.56] Okay. -[4205.82 --> 4206.18] Okay. -[4206.40 --> 4206.70] All right. -[4206.78 --> 4206.96] Yeah. -[4207.12 --> 4207.36] Right? -[4207.42 --> 4207.96] We all have. -[4208.48 --> 4208.64] Right? -[4208.72 --> 4209.42] Those are, in fact, -[4209.92 --> 4211.16] I've been hurt, you know, -[4211.20 --> 4212.20] by my wife and me -[4212.20 --> 4213.12] and her and me -[4213.12 --> 4215.56] because when you're that much in love -[4215.56 --> 4217.80] you're also creating that much pain sometimes too, -[4217.86 --> 4218.26] doesn't it? -[4219.06 --> 4219.68] And my wife, -[4219.88 --> 4220.74] she knows it well, -[4220.80 --> 4221.72] she married a sinner. -[4222.72 --> 4222.92] Right? -[4223.44 --> 4225.98] And in moments of intense feelings -[4225.98 --> 4227.38] things can be said -[4227.38 --> 4228.32] that shouldn't have been said. -[4228.32 --> 4230.78] And maybe it even feels satisfying -[4230.78 --> 4231.46] in those moments -[4231.46 --> 4232.86] to have said those things. -[4233.92 --> 4236.56] I have the spiritual gift of sarcasm. -[4239.24 --> 4241.22] But it doesn't always serve me -[4241.22 --> 4242.90] particularly well in my marriage. -[4242.96 --> 4244.96] And I found that out relatively quickly. -[4245.26 --> 4246.88] Apparently my wife hates sarcasm. -[4248.22 --> 4248.90] Go figure. -[4249.08 --> 4249.78] There's some sarcasm. -[4249.88 --> 4250.08] Anyways. -[4251.82 --> 4253.74] And it does feel satisfying sometimes. -[4253.88 --> 4254.00] You know, -[4254.04 --> 4254.78] sometimes I think, -[4254.78 --> 4256.50] oh, I'm amazed with the brilliance -[4256.50 --> 4257.38] of my own sarcasm. -[4257.68 --> 4258.98] As opposed to say, -[4259.06 --> 4260.82] wow, I'm really causing pain with this. -[4265.88 --> 4268.16] As one who has been forgiven by Jesus, -[4268.74 --> 4270.62] I need to allow the Spirit of God -[4270.62 --> 4272.72] to intervene into my thoughts -[4272.72 --> 4275.50] and I need to choose humility before my Lord -[4275.50 --> 4277.98] instead of being dictated by my feelings. -[4277.98 --> 4280.66] And then ignore those strong feelings -[4280.66 --> 4282.28] and choose to allow forgiveness -[4282.28 --> 4283.30] and humility -[4283.30 --> 4285.30] to redefine the broken moment. -[4285.58 --> 4286.68] I think for some of us, -[4286.86 --> 4288.52] we'd rather be right than loving. -[4291.32 --> 4292.78] I want the argument -[4292.78 --> 4294.02] feels way better than -[4294.02 --> 4296.48] I humbly walked away from it -[4296.48 --> 4297.76] because it was going poorly. -[4297.76 --> 4304.52] And this isn't pretending, -[4304.92 --> 4306.28] about pretending we're not hurt. -[4306.82 --> 4308.46] Or it's not about an excuse -[4308.46 --> 4310.76] to excuse or condone. -[4311.10 --> 4313.16] But it is not the place -[4313.16 --> 4315.34] where we allow emotion to run wild -[4315.34 --> 4316.60] and then dictate the moment. -[4317.80 --> 4318.94] I think most of us have been there. -[4319.82 --> 4322.20] And we need to surrender the moment to grace -[4322.20 --> 4324.04] and to love of the other -[4324.04 --> 4325.96] and to coming before the Lord -[4325.96 --> 4326.94] somehow together -[4326.94 --> 4328.36] and then to follow Jesus -[4328.36 --> 4329.98] to those hard places. -[4330.68 --> 4331.84] Jesus who said, -[4332.32 --> 4333.24] forgive them, -[4333.52 --> 4334.48] when He said it on the cross, -[4334.72 --> 4335.38] forgive them, -[4335.46 --> 4337.34] they know not what they do. -[4339.52 --> 4341.06] Well, what do you mean -[4341.06 --> 4342.04] they know not what He do? -[4342.24 --> 4343.36] They put them up there accidentally? -[4345.78 --> 4346.64] But Jesus is saying, -[4346.86 --> 4349.12] they really don't see the big picture at all, -[4349.18 --> 4349.56] do they? -[4350.80 --> 4351.46] Do they? -[4352.20 --> 4352.36] Right? -[4352.68 --> 4354.60] And I think we need to say the same thing. -[4354.84 --> 4355.82] Lord, forgive us. -[4355.82 --> 4357.46] We don't know what we're doing. -[4360.10 --> 4361.52] We really don't. -[4362.22 --> 4364.66] We don't see the whole picture by a long shot. -[4364.74 --> 4366.62] We get caught up in the moments. -[4367.96 --> 4369.66] Forgiveness does not mean, -[4369.82 --> 4370.84] hear me well here, -[4371.28 --> 4372.46] forgiveness does not mean -[4372.46 --> 4374.12] something was not sin. -[4376.32 --> 4378.16] Actually, just the opposite. -[4379.10 --> 4381.86] Forgiveness is about seeing the sin, -[4381.86 --> 4385.04] not disregarding it. -[4386.52 --> 4388.42] Sometimes in our Christian worldview, -[4389.46 --> 4391.70] at times we do something that's not right. -[4392.42 --> 4393.90] In the name of forgiveness, -[4394.04 --> 4395.10] we want to minimize the sin. -[4397.82 --> 4398.90] Just let it go. -[4399.90 --> 4400.80] That's forgiveness, right? -[4400.86 --> 4401.48] Just let it go. -[4402.84 --> 4404.24] After all, I forgive you. -[4404.24 --> 4405.90] It's not that. -[4406.80 --> 4409.14] We need to name the sin -[4409.14 --> 4410.54] and then forgive that, -[4410.74 --> 4413.26] which will mean working toward health and healing. -[4413.78 --> 4415.76] Otherwise, it's kind of like, -[4416.22 --> 4417.88] I was a teacher for many years. -[4418.76 --> 4421.16] I think I even saw a former student here, -[4421.30 --> 4422.24] which makes me feel old. -[4422.36 --> 4422.56] But anyway, -[4422.56 --> 4426.28] sometimes then it's like that kid -[4426.28 --> 4427.40] who says sorry too fast. -[4428.92 --> 4429.08] You know, -[4429.16 --> 4429.54] you say, -[4429.74 --> 4430.14] why did you, -[4430.24 --> 4430.60] oh, sorry. -[4431.64 --> 4432.50] They don't even hear. -[4432.60 --> 4433.34] They really say, -[4433.42 --> 4434.28] just go away. -[4434.34 --> 4435.28] I don't want to hear about this. -[4436.18 --> 4437.82] I want this done and over with. -[4438.08 --> 4438.16] Here, -[4438.28 --> 4439.72] and so you just say sorry -[4439.72 --> 4440.78] as fast as you can. -[4440.86 --> 4441.78] Hopefully, it'll go away. -[4442.36 --> 4444.36] Forgiveness and justice go hand in hand, -[4444.60 --> 4445.74] which is so different -[4445.74 --> 4447.20] than payback and vengeance -[4447.20 --> 4447.98] and getting evil. -[4448.94 --> 4449.92] So with that in mind, -[4449.92 --> 4453.70] forgiveness is not allowing -[4453.70 --> 4456.10] wrongdoers to carry on. -[4457.42 --> 4459.16] How many of you remember the story -[4459.16 --> 4461.68] about Rachel Denhollander? -[4463.32 --> 4463.80] Anyone here? -[4465.36 --> 4467.18] She was a gymnast. -[4468.46 --> 4469.08] Well, maybe you remember -[4469.08 --> 4471.36] the villain's name in the story, -[4472.10 --> 4473.76] Larry Nassar. -[4475.60 --> 4476.08] Right? -[4476.68 --> 4478.36] And yeah, -[4478.36 --> 4481.52] Nassar sexually abused -[4481.52 --> 4483.52] a whack of these girls, -[4483.64 --> 4484.36] these gymnasts. -[4484.88 --> 4487.02] He was the U.S. gymnastic team doctor. -[4488.96 --> 4490.32] Rachel was 15 years old -[4490.32 --> 4492.44] when Nassar started abusing her -[4492.44 --> 4493.60] and she was the first -[4493.60 --> 4494.66] to make public allegations -[4494.66 --> 4496.44] against this respected doctor. -[4497.62 --> 4498.70] Denhollander became -[4498.70 --> 4501.70] the last of more than 150 survivors, -[4502.04 --> 4502.68] all women, -[4502.78 --> 4503.82] almost all of them gymnasts, -[4503.82 --> 4505.56] to share her impact statement -[4505.56 --> 4506.86] in court with Nassar -[4506.86 --> 4507.90] who was convicted -[4507.90 --> 4508.84] of seven counts -[4508.84 --> 4510.84] of first degree criminal sexual contact -[4510.84 --> 4513.78] and sentenced up to 175 years -[4513.78 --> 4514.76] in prison. -[4517.28 --> 4519.66] This is what Rachel said to him -[4519.66 --> 4520.26] in court. -[4521.98 --> 4522.98] Rachel, who, by the way, -[4523.02 --> 4523.86] is a devout Christian. -[4525.30 --> 4526.38] Here are her words. -[4526.38 --> 4529.54] I pray you experience -[4529.54 --> 4532.40] the soul-crushing guilt -[4532.40 --> 4535.44] so that you may someday -[4535.44 --> 4537.86] experience true repentance -[4537.86 --> 4540.98] and true forgiveness from God, -[4541.76 --> 4542.92] which you need far more -[4542.92 --> 4544.30] than forgiveness from me, -[4544.80 --> 4546.84] though I extend that to you -[4546.84 --> 4548.52] as well. -[4550.22 --> 4551.30] You hear it? -[4551.42 --> 4552.20] You hear the tone? -[4552.20 --> 4557.32] You need to feel, Dr. Nassar, -[4557.60 --> 4559.18] the pain you cause. -[4559.36 --> 4562.42] You need to let it crush you -[4562.42 --> 4565.66] and then come to God -[4565.66 --> 4569.30] so that you can find true repentance. -[4574.64 --> 4576.20] You can see her speak -[4576.20 --> 4578.60] on YouTube and stuff, too. -[4578.72 --> 4580.74] It's powerful stuff. -[4582.20 --> 4584.94] With that in mind, -[4585.08 --> 4588.10] forgiveness isn't a one-moment thing, -[4588.14 --> 4589.28] a one-and-done thing, -[4589.34 --> 4589.90] a season. -[4590.12 --> 4590.78] It's a discipline. -[4590.90 --> 4591.52] It's a practice. -[4591.88 --> 4592.72] It involves following -[4592.72 --> 4593.96] and forgiving like Jesus -[4593.96 --> 4595.02] on an ongoing matter. -[4595.96 --> 4597.56] So now some thoughts around, -[4597.84 --> 4598.48] I've been talking about -[4598.48 --> 4599.44] what forgiveness isn't, -[4599.50 --> 4600.04] some thoughts around -[4600.04 --> 4600.98] what forgiveness is. -[4601.38 --> 4602.64] Forgiveness is -[4602.64 --> 4604.54] when we return to God -[4604.54 --> 4606.74] the right to carry out justice -[4606.74 --> 4609.52] now and in the days to come. -[4610.00 --> 4611.02] Vengeance is mine, -[4611.20 --> 4611.78] says the Lord. -[4612.20 --> 4613.34] We can feel like -[4613.34 --> 4614.20] we know better -[4614.20 --> 4615.30] the desire for vengeance, -[4615.46 --> 4616.44] for getting evil, -[4616.78 --> 4617.42] even rather, -[4617.80 --> 4619.58] as if we know it all. -[4623.88 --> 4625.72] And we confess God knows best -[4625.72 --> 4626.94] so we give God the reins. -[4628.36 --> 4629.32] That doesn't mean to say, -[4629.40 --> 4629.66] by the way, -[4629.68 --> 4630.66] that we don't seek justice. -[4632.12 --> 4633.78] Forgiveness is when we desire -[4633.78 --> 4635.66] to do good instead of evil. -[4635.66 --> 4636.22] Right? -[4636.34 --> 4638.98] It frees us from seeking out harm. -[4639.08 --> 4640.08] You hear that in Rachel -[4640.08 --> 4641.30] and Hollander's line there, -[4641.36 --> 4641.56] right? -[4641.90 --> 4642.00] Right? -[4642.22 --> 4643.88] That you get to that place, -[4644.00 --> 4644.68] Dr. Nasser, -[4644.92 --> 4646.46] of true repentance. -[4646.90 --> 4648.20] That's where you need to go. -[4648.34 --> 4649.82] I will give you forgiveness. -[4650.36 --> 4651.60] But that's not really -[4651.60 --> 4652.52] what you need. -[4652.52 --> 4657.40] So yeah, -[4657.52 --> 4659.40] consequences for bad behavior. -[4659.52 --> 4659.62] Yeah, -[4659.68 --> 4661.02] 175 years in jail, -[4661.06 --> 4661.76] you're going to die in jail. -[4661.84 --> 4661.96] Yeah, -[4662.04 --> 4662.92] that's fitting. -[4666.20 --> 4667.72] But the hope of good -[4667.72 --> 4669.16] for the one who harmed us -[4669.16 --> 4670.46] can be a part of that. -[4673.66 --> 4674.34] Scripture says, -[4674.48 --> 4675.58] beauty for ashes. -[4675.58 --> 4681.98] Forgiveness is an unmerited gift. -[4683.28 --> 4684.78] It isn't earned. -[4685.14 --> 4685.84] It's given. -[4686.30 --> 4686.50] You know, -[4686.54 --> 4687.36] we may tend to be -[4687.36 --> 4688.48] like the Pharisee, right? -[4688.74 --> 4689.76] Evil is evil. -[4689.92 --> 4690.44] Avoid it. -[4690.66 --> 4691.66] There's some truth to that. -[4691.98 --> 4693.08] Keep yourself clean -[4693.08 --> 4694.10] by avoiding all those -[4694.10 --> 4694.62] who are evil -[4694.62 --> 4696.82] because you're better than them. -[4701.12 --> 4702.72] We can look around in the world -[4702.72 --> 4703.00] and -[4703.00 --> 4707.24] sometimes I see -[4707.24 --> 4708.24] Christian reactions. -[4710.94 --> 4712.16] I get discouraged. -[4713.68 --> 4714.46] I've never seen a picture -[4714.46 --> 4715.02] of a -[4715.02 --> 4716.88] protest -[4716.88 --> 4717.70] against the -[4717.70 --> 4718.40] gay movement -[4718.40 --> 4718.98] but, you know, -[4719.04 --> 4720.02] people holding up signs -[4720.02 --> 4720.24] saying, -[4720.34 --> 4721.40] God hates fags. -[4721.58 --> 4721.68] I go, -[4722.68 --> 4723.20] oh, -[4723.56 --> 4725.28] I understand -[4725.28 --> 4726.30] where you're coming from -[4726.30 --> 4726.68] that, you know, -[4726.72 --> 4727.58] we're trying to -[4727.58 --> 4728.52] address this -[4728.52 --> 4730.58] but not like that. -[4731.96 --> 4732.96] Not like that. -[4733.00 --> 4739.32] So, -[4739.46 --> 4739.72] forgiveness -[4739.72 --> 4740.78] may happen, -[4741.32 --> 4741.54] you know, -[4741.58 --> 4742.46] when we sometimes -[4742.46 --> 4743.44] get to those places. -[4743.90 --> 4745.02] Forgiveness might happen -[4745.02 --> 4746.38] if I think I'm better than you -[4746.38 --> 4747.28] but only when you -[4747.28 --> 4748.28] clean yourself up -[4748.28 --> 4749.16] and not until then. -[4752.64 --> 4753.12] Forgiveness -[4753.12 --> 4754.10] is given -[4754.10 --> 4754.96] in the trenches. -[4755.16 --> 4755.86] It's given -[4755.86 --> 4757.34] in the brokenness. -[4757.48 --> 4759.34] While we were yet sinners, -[4759.52 --> 4760.44] Christ came to us. -[4760.66 --> 4761.64] He didn't come to us -[4761.64 --> 4761.86] and say, -[4761.96 --> 4762.32] well, okay, -[4762.62 --> 4763.32] clean yourself up -[4763.32 --> 4764.28] and I might show up later. -[4764.36 --> 4765.02] He didn't say that. -[4765.48 --> 4766.86] It's not easy -[4766.86 --> 4767.56] to forgive. -[4767.56 --> 4772.74] You know, -[4772.80 --> 4772.96] my, -[4773.02 --> 4776.30] my dad passed away -[4776.30 --> 4777.14] about five years ago. -[4780.92 --> 4781.30] And, -[4781.52 --> 4783.78] my dad was very loving -[4783.78 --> 4784.44] but he was also, -[4784.90 --> 4785.94] he created a lot of pain -[4785.94 --> 4786.40] in my life. -[4788.08 --> 4789.42] A lot of it involved -[4789.42 --> 4791.28] rage and anger issues. -[4793.60 --> 4794.88] He was a complicated guy. -[4794.88 --> 4794.92] He was a complicated guy. -[4794.92 --> 4800.74] It took me a long time -[4800.74 --> 4801.86] to get to that place -[4801.86 --> 4803.16] where I could forgive, -[4804.14 --> 4805.96] where I was healthy enough -[4805.96 --> 4807.78] to forgive. -[4809.26 --> 4810.30] A lot of counseling, -[4811.02 --> 4812.20] a lot of prayer. -[4813.50 --> 4814.30] I once read a quote -[4814.30 --> 4814.62] that says, -[4814.70 --> 4815.64] forgiveness is setting -[4815.64 --> 4816.20] someone free -[4816.20 --> 4816.76] and realizing -[4816.76 --> 4817.70] the person is you. -[4817.70 --> 4822.28] I remember somebody, -[4822.46 --> 4823.26] I shared my story -[4823.26 --> 4823.56] with somebody -[4823.56 --> 4823.90] and they said, -[4823.98 --> 4824.04] oh, -[4824.10 --> 4824.32] how did, -[4824.80 --> 4825.14] you know, -[4825.18 --> 4826.08] my dad was still alive -[4826.08 --> 4827.04] at the time -[4827.04 --> 4827.38] and I said, -[4827.56 --> 4828.00] how are you, -[4828.12 --> 4829.28] how do you deal with that? -[4830.00 --> 4830.62] And I answered, -[4830.70 --> 4831.30] I don't -[4831.30 --> 4832.40] but eventually -[4832.40 --> 4833.24] I'm going to kick -[4833.24 --> 4834.42] the crap out of his coffin. -[4840.12 --> 4840.62] I don't, -[4840.82 --> 4841.68] I didn't feel that way -[4841.68 --> 4842.12] when he died -[4842.12 --> 4845.56] because I did the hard work -[4845.56 --> 4847.16] of forgiveness -[4847.16 --> 4849.92] and I died -[4849.92 --> 4851.70] or he died -[4851.70 --> 4852.32] with me -[4852.32 --> 4853.38] and the family -[4853.38 --> 4853.82] with him -[4853.82 --> 4854.54] and loving him -[4854.54 --> 4855.46] and caring for him -[4855.46 --> 4857.48] and it was a whole lot better -[4857.48 --> 4858.66] than where I was -[4858.66 --> 4859.24] at one point. -[4859.24 --> 4865.70] When I forgave -[4865.70 --> 4866.50] and learned to forgive, -[4866.72 --> 4867.60] I felt more free -[4867.60 --> 4868.62] to love my broken dad -[4868.62 --> 4870.50] and I learned -[4870.50 --> 4871.74] to become far more aware -[4871.74 --> 4873.78] of how forgiven I am -[4873.78 --> 4875.46] and I realized this -[4875.46 --> 4876.96] and this was an important lesson -[4876.96 --> 4879.08] and that I was not better -[4879.08 --> 4879.84] than him. -[4883.36 --> 4884.60] He was a broken man, -[4886.10 --> 4888.22] a sinner like me -[4888.22 --> 4889.22] and I was not better -[4889.24 --> 4890.60] but forgiveness -[4890.60 --> 4891.70] frees us -[4891.70 --> 4893.02] and hopefully -[4893.02 --> 4894.88] frees the one, -[4895.48 --> 4896.80] hopefully to forgive -[4896.80 --> 4898.32] the one who has harmed us. -[4899.68 --> 4900.50] Hebrews 12, -[4900.70 --> 4901.66] because here's the other option, -[4901.78 --> 4903.00] Hebrews 12, 15 says, -[4903.46 --> 4904.24] where scripture says, -[4904.32 --> 4905.26] see to it that no one -[4905.26 --> 4906.10] falls short -[4906.10 --> 4907.08] of the grace of God. -[4907.14 --> 4908.04] What does that mean? -[4908.22 --> 4909.24] Fall short of the grace of God. -[4909.54 --> 4910.70] That no bitter root -[4910.70 --> 4911.72] grows up -[4911.72 --> 4912.34] to cause trouble -[4912.34 --> 4912.90] and defile many. -[4913.32 --> 4915.12] If you don't forgive well, -[4915.50 --> 4917.26] bitterness is the other option. -[4919.96 --> 4921.70] And bitterness destroys. -[4923.70 --> 4925.08] Unforgiveness enslaves us. -[4925.16 --> 4926.04] I've seen it too often. -[4926.36 --> 4927.04] And we need to go -[4927.04 --> 4928.56] to that place of slavery -[4928.56 --> 4930.00] and uproot that bitterness -[4930.00 --> 4930.84] and that pain -[4930.84 --> 4931.76] and that grudge keeping -[4931.76 --> 4932.64] and that score keeping. -[4932.88 --> 4934.16] And we need to learn to forgive -[4934.16 --> 4936.52] because Christ forgives you -[4936.52 --> 4937.54] profoundly. -[4937.54 --> 4943.26] God takes it all -[4943.26 --> 4944.36] and He gives us His peace -[4944.36 --> 4945.00] and His freedom -[4945.00 --> 4945.60] and His spirit -[4945.60 --> 4946.18] and His healing. -[4947.36 --> 4947.84] And then this, -[4948.00 --> 4948.76] we do forgiveness -[4948.76 --> 4949.40] in community. -[4950.58 --> 4952.02] I appreciated the guitar player, -[4952.14 --> 4952.40] right, -[4952.54 --> 4953.78] when he started talking -[4953.78 --> 4954.12] a little bit -[4954.12 --> 4954.76] about his own stuff -[4954.76 --> 4955.16] a little bit. -[4956.00 --> 4956.26] And yeah, -[4956.34 --> 4957.22] thinking of James 5, -[4957.34 --> 4958.80] therefore confess your sins -[4958.80 --> 4959.38] to one another -[4959.38 --> 4960.32] and pray for each other -[4960.32 --> 4961.24] so that you may be healed. -[4961.56 --> 4961.84] And the prayer -[4961.84 --> 4962.62] of the righteous person -[4962.62 --> 4963.64] is powerful and effective. -[4963.64 --> 4966.84] So we're going to break up -[4966.84 --> 4967.64] into little groups now -[4967.64 --> 4968.40] and I want you to confess -[4968.40 --> 4969.46] your deepest, darkest sin -[4969.46 --> 4970.62] to the person next to you. -[4972.22 --> 4973.14] How many are in? -[4973.72 --> 4973.88] Yeah. -[4974.62 --> 4974.84] Right? -[4975.82 --> 4976.42] But somebody. -[4978.72 --> 4979.12] Somebody. -[4982.40 --> 4983.90] Hiding is one of the signs -[4983.90 --> 4985.02] of really unhealthiness. -[4988.42 --> 4989.74] And I might add this too -[4989.74 --> 4990.36] to that verse. -[4990.72 --> 4992.34] Confess the pain of sin -[4992.34 --> 4992.80] to another -[4992.80 --> 4993.68] that you may be healed. -[4993.80 --> 4994.70] Sometimes there's that. -[4994.94 --> 4996.54] Know the pain you cause -[4996.54 --> 4997.80] and share the pain -[4997.80 --> 4998.64] you've received. -[4999.24 --> 5000.30] This is part of the process -[5000.30 --> 5001.20] of healing forgiveness. -[5001.82 --> 5003.06] And I do want to encourage you -[5003.06 --> 5003.88] to practice that. -[5003.96 --> 5004.92] Maybe sometime this week -[5004.92 --> 5005.58] or the next couple weeks, -[5005.64 --> 5006.20] sometime this summer. -[5006.64 --> 5008.36] Maybe with some trusted other, -[5008.80 --> 5011.04] reflect and say it out loud -[5011.04 --> 5012.82] on how you've been forgiven -[5012.82 --> 5013.70] by God. -[5015.04 --> 5015.70] Share that. -[5016.42 --> 5017.22] Share that with somebody. -[5018.66 --> 5019.42] Get specific -[5019.42 --> 5021.90] so that you can, -[5022.42 --> 5023.74] so that we can be moved -[5023.74 --> 5025.44] to not self-loathing, -[5025.86 --> 5027.20] but to love much. -[5027.92 --> 5029.52] Because I know that cycle too. -[5030.34 --> 5031.54] I'm just a piece of garbage. -[5031.76 --> 5033.36] I keep doing the same things -[5033.36 --> 5033.92] over and over again. -[5033.96 --> 5034.88] I'm just useless. -[5035.06 --> 5036.28] You may as well just give up on me. -[5036.38 --> 5037.16] You know, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah. -[5037.28 --> 5037.42] Right? -[5037.88 --> 5038.86] No, this is about learning -[5038.86 --> 5039.48] to love much. -[5040.32 --> 5041.22] And out of that love, -[5041.28 --> 5042.48] we learn to forgive like Christ. -[5042.48 --> 5045.36] Forgiveness is hard. -[5046.60 --> 5047.82] It makes us feel vulnerable. -[5049.92 --> 5051.90] When I hurt my wife's heart, -[5052.86 --> 5055.84] I don't like to dwell on that. -[5055.90 --> 5057.24] I like to move on a little faster. -[5057.50 --> 5058.82] Because I don't want to be that guy. -[5059.96 --> 5061.46] But I need to own that pain -[5061.46 --> 5062.58] that I've caused. -[5063.06 --> 5064.32] Confess that to my God -[5064.32 --> 5065.78] and to my wife. -[5066.34 --> 5067.82] And trust that God is at work -[5067.82 --> 5068.98] in this path of forgiveness -[5068.98 --> 5070.20] to heal me -[5070.20 --> 5072.14] and those I've harmed. -[5072.48 --> 5078.06] Where are you, -[5078.50 --> 5079.44] where are those places -[5079.44 --> 5081.60] where you need to confess first to God -[5081.60 --> 5083.56] and then to someone you've hurt? -[5083.70 --> 5085.44] Maybe even somewhat unintentionally. -[5086.90 --> 5087.12] Right? -[5087.28 --> 5089.16] And I think AA's got it right. -[5090.24 --> 5090.46] Right? -[5090.50 --> 5091.68] When you do the 12 steps, -[5091.76 --> 5092.50] I don't know how many of you -[5092.50 --> 5094.26] are aware of the 12 steps, -[5094.38 --> 5095.42] but they do it right. -[5095.54 --> 5095.64] Right? -[5095.70 --> 5096.40] You know, first of all, -[5096.88 --> 5097.70] hi, I'm Sid. -[5097.72 --> 5098.40] I'm an alcoholic. -[5098.62 --> 5098.76] Right? -[5098.76 --> 5099.76] You know, we're right away, -[5099.92 --> 5101.66] we're right away on common ground. -[5102.48 --> 5104.68] And fearless moral inventory. -[5105.82 --> 5108.26] I'm going to name all my stuff. -[5108.48 --> 5110.40] And you do that fearless moral inventory -[5110.40 --> 5111.96] and then you share it -[5111.96 --> 5112.94] with somebody you trust. -[5113.92 --> 5114.72] And I've got to hear -[5114.72 --> 5116.66] several fearless moral inventories. -[5116.66 --> 5118.28] and then, -[5118.88 --> 5119.78] eventually that step -[5119.78 --> 5121.38] of making amends. -[5123.38 --> 5124.90] You don't just confess it. -[5125.00 --> 5125.12] You know, -[5125.18 --> 5126.50] now go back to all the people -[5126.50 --> 5127.90] you've harmed as much as possible -[5127.90 --> 5129.00] and you try to make things right. -[5130.10 --> 5130.24] Whew. -[5132.24 --> 5132.84] 12 steps. -[5132.84 --> 5137.54] Yeah, and it doesn't always -[5137.54 --> 5138.82] get cleaned up nice and tidy, -[5138.90 --> 5139.26] does it? -[5140.64 --> 5141.88] Dan Hollander described it -[5141.88 --> 5142.88] as being a lifelong thing. -[5143.22 --> 5143.86] And she said this, -[5143.98 --> 5144.94] this side of heaven, -[5145.06 --> 5146.32] we don't get complete restoration. -[5147.12 --> 5148.60] I never got a nice, -[5148.76 --> 5149.96] clean confession from my dad -[5149.96 --> 5150.86] about the hurt he caused. -[5150.86 --> 5153.74] But God brought me some healing -[5153.74 --> 5154.56] anyways over time -[5154.56 --> 5155.46] with lots of counseling -[5155.46 --> 5156.06] and praying -[5156.06 --> 5157.14] and reading and reflecting -[5157.14 --> 5157.98] and sharing with friends. -[5158.64 --> 5160.10] And more healing to come, -[5160.14 --> 5161.20] I'm convinced of that. -[5162.12 --> 5163.02] Because I've experienced -[5163.02 --> 5163.70] the power of forgiveness -[5163.70 --> 5164.50] in my own life. -[5165.18 --> 5166.10] My holy God -[5166.10 --> 5167.24] gave His only Son -[5167.24 --> 5168.32] so I could receive -[5168.32 --> 5169.20] His forgiveness, -[5169.62 --> 5170.20] His love, -[5170.42 --> 5171.86] forgiveness I deeply need -[5171.86 --> 5173.12] and continue to need. -[5173.12 --> 5173.94] And in that, -[5174.06 --> 5174.68] I've learned to take -[5174.68 --> 5175.98] deep, deep hurts -[5175.98 --> 5177.20] and forgive them -[5177.20 --> 5178.54] because I need to follow -[5178.54 --> 5180.72] Jesus and His great love. -[5182.70 --> 5184.52] Let me conclude with a story, -[5185.38 --> 5186.30] one that expresses -[5186.30 --> 5187.02] the power of forgiveness -[5187.02 --> 5187.60] in community. -[5188.62 --> 5189.40] There was an event -[5189.40 --> 5190.40] called the Awakening -[5190.40 --> 5191.92] at Motlingen, Germany. -[5192.10 --> 5193.98] It was on New Year's Eve, 1843. -[5195.34 --> 5196.58] There was a young man -[5196.58 --> 5197.28] and he was known -[5197.28 --> 5198.58] for wild living -[5198.58 --> 5200.20] and a violent temper. -[5200.66 --> 5201.18] And one day, -[5201.22 --> 5202.16] he came to the door -[5202.16 --> 5202.90] of his pastor -[5202.90 --> 5205.20] Pastor Christoph Blumhart. -[5206.40 --> 5207.86] He came in desperation -[5207.86 --> 5209.16] to confess his sins -[5209.16 --> 5209.98] to the pastor. -[5210.56 --> 5211.40] This isn't a Catholic -[5211.40 --> 5212.06] confessional thing, -[5212.10 --> 5213.36] this was a Protestant thing. -[5213.72 --> 5214.60] And this created -[5214.60 --> 5216.36] an unprecedented wave -[5216.36 --> 5216.98] of confession -[5216.98 --> 5218.02] in the community -[5218.02 --> 5219.44] where one remorseful -[5219.44 --> 5220.50] villager after another -[5220.50 --> 5221.92] came to reveal -[5221.92 --> 5222.88] and confess -[5222.88 --> 5224.58] sins and reconcile. -[5225.06 --> 5225.98] Pierced to the heart, -[5226.32 --> 5227.28] people from all walks -[5227.28 --> 5228.22] of life felt compelled -[5228.22 --> 5228.74] from within -[5228.74 --> 5229.66] to break out -[5229.66 --> 5230.62] of their old ways. -[5231.00 --> 5231.74] Stolen goods -[5231.74 --> 5232.50] were returned -[5232.50 --> 5234.08] enemies reconciled, -[5234.34 --> 5235.28] marriages healed, -[5235.64 --> 5236.70] crimes confessed, -[5237.10 --> 5238.24] grudges let go. -[5240.24 --> 5240.84] Imagine. -[5245.00 --> 5245.96] Jesus offered -[5245.96 --> 5246.58] his followers -[5246.58 --> 5247.76] the keys of the kingdom. -[5249.50 --> 5250.40] I picture forgiveness -[5250.40 --> 5251.46] as one of the keys, right? -[5251.62 --> 5252.92] We hold the key -[5252.92 --> 5253.42] of forgiveness -[5253.42 --> 5254.14] in our hands -[5254.14 --> 5255.66] and now we must choose -[5255.66 --> 5257.22] whether to use it or not. -[5257.22 --> 5260.06] Christ wants to use -[5260.06 --> 5260.78] our hands, -[5261.50 --> 5262.88] wounded as they may be, -[5263.72 --> 5264.44] to extend -[5264.44 --> 5265.18] his forgiveness -[5265.18 --> 5266.18] and his grace -[5266.18 --> 5267.32] to the world -[5267.32 --> 5268.30] and to those around us. -[5270.34 --> 5271.14] What will you do -[5271.14 --> 5271.52] with the key? -[5273.44 --> 5274.04] Let's pray. -[5277.90 --> 5278.56] Father God, -[5278.62 --> 5279.42] we come before you -[5279.42 --> 5280.14] and Lord, -[5280.22 --> 5280.96] we just thank you -[5280.96 --> 5284.04] for forgiving us. -[5284.04 --> 5288.00] Lord, -[5288.04 --> 5288.70] I pray that everyone -[5288.70 --> 5289.44] here may have -[5289.44 --> 5290.72] a profound sense -[5290.72 --> 5291.78] of their own brokenness, -[5292.24 --> 5293.90] not to beat themselves up -[5293.90 --> 5295.06] but to find the freedom -[5295.06 --> 5295.92] that is only found -[5295.92 --> 5296.80] in deep repentance -[5296.80 --> 5297.72] and deep grace -[5297.72 --> 5299.48] through deep forgiveness. -[5301.42 --> 5301.64] Lord, -[5301.68 --> 5302.30] I pray for those -[5302.30 --> 5303.04] who have been harmed -[5303.04 --> 5305.76] and need to forgive -[5305.76 --> 5306.42] someone who -[5306.42 --> 5308.24] needs to be held -[5308.24 --> 5308.70] accountable, -[5309.70 --> 5310.02] of course, -[5310.12 --> 5311.10] but also forgiven. -[5311.10 --> 5314.24] And I pray, -[5314.40 --> 5314.48] Lord, -[5314.56 --> 5315.16] that we will humble -[5315.16 --> 5315.72] ourselves, -[5318.02 --> 5318.98] that we will get honest, -[5320.90 --> 5322.48] humble and grace-filled -[5322.48 --> 5323.68] people who know -[5323.68 --> 5324.86] how to receive forgiveness -[5324.86 --> 5326.30] and out of receiving -[5326.30 --> 5327.02] that forgiveness -[5327.02 --> 5328.70] know how to love well -[5328.70 --> 5331.04] so that we can be -[5331.04 --> 5331.38] like you, -[5331.46 --> 5331.64] Jesus. -[5333.32 --> 5334.38] Lead us in all that -[5334.38 --> 5335.40] in Jesus' name. -[5336.00 --> 5336.24] Amen. -[5336.24 --> 5336.34] Amen. -[5341.10 --> 5342.62] auch in die -[5360.68 --> 5361.78] groove -[5361.78 --> 5374.82] How great the chasm that lay between us, how high a mountain I could not part. -[5374.82 --> 5386.88] In desperation I turned to heaven and spoke your name into the blood. -[5386.88 --> 5398.70] Through the darkness your unkindness, or through the shadows of my soul. -[5398.70 --> 5411.52] The work is finished, the end is written, Jesus Christ my living Lord. -[5411.52 --> 5426.52] Who could imagine so great a mercy? What heart could travel such boundless grace? -[5426.52 --> 5438.52] The God of ages sent out one glory to bear my sin and bear my shame. -[5438.52 --> 5450.52] The cross has spoken, I am forgiven. The King of kings calls me His own. -[5451.80 --> 5463.52] Beautiful Savior, I'm yours forever. Jesus Christ my living Lord. -[5463.52 --> 5476.52] Alleluia, praise the one who set me free. Alleluia, death has lost its reward. -[5476.52 --> 5488.52] You have broken your wishing, new salvation in your name. Jesus Christ my living Lord. -[5488.52 --> 5501.52] Alleluia, praise the one who set me free. Alleluia, death has lost its reward. -[5501.52 --> 5513.52] You have broken your wishing, new salvation in your name. Jesus Christ my living Lord. -[5513.52 --> 5520.52] You have broken your place in your name. Your Bye- знакомs all my finances, -[5520.52 --> 5523.52] Listen to God that gave wars that your living Lord are full of forever. -[5523.52 --> 5529.52] Our Lord is blessed. You have broken your own truth. -[5529.52 --> 5533.52] That loving stone the Re дорDoing wasis thatijnul�, death was a 1994 historian, -[5533.52 --> 5539.52] My fate of correction for his sins that��ores the virginрим. -[5539.52 --> 5551.44] me -[5557.76 --> 5562.56] is -[5569.52 --> 5583.52] is -[5599.52 --> 5613.52] is -[5614.32 --> 5627.52] jesus -[5629.52 --> 5639.52] is -[5644.16 --> 5652.96] receive god's blessing i'm sharing a blessing from a gal named uh kate bowler she writes these -[5652.96 --> 5660.72] beautiful blessings i want to share one with you blessed am i when i'm starving for justice -[5661.84 --> 5666.08] when the world around me seems so unfair that i could scream but no one seems to be listening -[5666.80 --> 5672.48] no one seems to care and may justice flow like a river blessed am i when someone hurts me when i -[5672.48 --> 5678.16] feel offended and i don't return insult with insult instead i forgive recognizing the number of times -[5678.16 --> 5685.28] i've needed to be forgiven blessed am i when i strip away all the extras when i see the world as it really -[5685.28 --> 5691.36] is broken tender fragile beautiful these are the same eyes that god sees everything with too -[5692.80 --> 5699.04] blessed am i when i take the hard road the winding one that doesn't opt for shortcuts of rage -[5699.04 --> 5705.60] or resentment of unkind words that doesn't pave over night trite niceties but walks toward peacemaking -[5706.48 --> 5713.04] from god's child blessed am i when i face hardships of all sorts insults hurt feelings lies -[5713.04 --> 5719.84] addictive neighbors blessed am i when i work to usher god's kingdom of love and compassion and justice -[5719.84 --> 5728.16] and forgiveness and forgiveness and peace even when it's hard blessed are we the imperfect and don't have -[5728.16 --> 5735.04] it all together god's beloved people who are forgiven and so forgive amen -[5735.04 --> 5739.52] amen -[5739.52 --> 5753.52] behold he comes riding on the clouds shining like the sun have the trumpet call -[5754.72 --> 5759.28] lift your voice it's the year of jubilee -[5759.28 --> 5766.72] and out of zion's hill salvation comes -[5766.72 --> 5776.72] these are the days of elijah declaring the word of the lord -[5776.72 --> 5786.72] and these are the days of your servant roses righteousness being restored -[5786.72 --> 5794.16] and though these are the days of the lord -[5794.16 --> 5798.16] of famine and darkness and so on -[5798.16 --> 5803.20] still we are the voids in the desert -[5803.20 --> 5808.16] crying preparing the way of the lord -[5808.16 --> 5809.92] the holy of the lord -[5809.92 --> 5810.96] the holy gods -[5810.96 --> 5811.60] the holy gods -[5811.60 --> 5813.52] rising on the clouds -[5813.52 --> 5815.60] rising like the sun -[5815.60 --> 5817.60] and the trumpet call -[5817.60 --> 5819.60] lift your voice -[5819.60 --> 5821.60] lift your voice -[5821.60 --> 5823.60] to hear our jubilee -[5823.60 --> 5825.76] heaven's science -[5825.76 --> 5827.60] in salvation -[5827.60 --> 5829.60] come -[5829.60 --> 5837.10] And these are the days of Ezekiel -[5837.10 --> 5841.54] The tribals becoming a saint -[5841.54 --> 5846.22] And these are the days of the servant -[5846.22 --> 5851.82] David rebuilding a temple of grace -[5851.82 --> 5856.50] And these are the days of the harvest -[5856.50 --> 5861.84] The fields are as white in the world -[5861.84 --> 5867.74] And these are the laborers in your vineyard -[5867.74 --> 5871.20] Declaring the word of the Lord -[5871.20 --> 5876.28] He will be kind, shining like a cloud -[5876.28 --> 5881.52] Shining like a sun at the trumpet call -[5881.52 --> 5885.86] Lift your voice, steer up to lead -[5885.86 --> 5889.98] God inspires little salvation -[5889.98 --> 5897.86] There's no God like Jehovah -[5897.86 --> 5913.20] There's no God like Jehovah -[5913.20 --> 5919.20] He holds the dust, burning like a cloud -[5919.20 --> 5923.86] Shining like a sun at the trumpet call -[5923.86 --> 5928.20] Lift your voice, steer up to lead -[5928.20 --> 5932.32] God inspires little salvation -[5932.32 --> 5936.20] Come, be holding up -[5936.20 --> 5938.70] And it's on the world -[5938.70 --> 5943.20] Shining like a sun at the trumpet call -[5943.20 --> 5948.54] Lift your voice, steer up to lead -[5948.54 --> 5953.54] God, enjoy it till salvation comes -[5953.54 --> 5971.88] God bless you -[5971.88 --> 5974.88] OOP -[5974.88 --> 6002.92] If everyone can recall, we have an AGM here at the moment. -[6002.92 --> 6009.22] So if everyone can remain in your seats so we can finish that. -[6009.80 --> 6016.62] If you're a guest here, you're invited to grab a coffee out in the foyer there. -[6016.92 --> 6020.34] If you have kids in the nursery, you can go grab them and bring them back if you'd like. -[6032.92 --> 6062.90] Thank you. -[6062.92 --> 6074.06] I'd like to get this going ASAP. -[6074.48 --> 6077.42] So hey Steve, back there, can you close the doors maybe? -[6077.52 --> 6078.00] Steve Rook. -[6078.00 --> 6078.04] Steve Rook. -[6078.04 --> 6089.18] Steve Rook. -[6089.18 --> 6090.32] Steve Rook. -[6090.32 --> 6090.52] Steve Rook. -[6090.52 --> 6091.32] Steve Rook. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, June 30, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, June 30, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 67639e65e39f5f868f5aa769efb1597a423d8ed1..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, June 30, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,106 +0,0 @@ -• The speaker expresses gratitude for God's redeeming love -• References to Psalm 118:24 ("This is the day that the Lord has made") -• Acknowledgment of temptation to wander from God, but commitment to be sealed in God's courts above -• Declaration of Jesus as Redeemer and Savior -• Comparison of Jesus' love to the outshining of the sun -• Reflection on trust in God despite pain or uncertainty -• Worship service announcements -• Recap discussion on Synod 2024 after service -• Summer food drive and volunteering opportunities -• Seeking new children's worship time coordinator -• Passing of the peace and welcome to God's presence in the congregation -• Worship call from Psalm 89 -• Opening prayer to see faithfulness throughout lives -• Message about coming to Jesus, satisfying thirst for mercy and goodness -• The power of hell defeated by God's love -• Praise for the wonders of God's love and goodness -• Testimonies of personal experiences with God's mercy and faithfulness -• Praise and worship song -• Professions of faith: Casey, Ally, and Madden -• Casey shares his testimony about finding faith in Jesus -• Ryan (Casey's brother) makes a video message to support Casey's profession of faith -• Discussion of the church community and spreading the word of Jesus -• Expressing appreciation for Casey's growth in community service and faith -• Madden sharing her spiritual journey, including her struggles with professing her faith and finding confidence in it -• Citing personal experiences that have shaped her understanding of God's presence and love in her life -• Recalling a transformative outreach trip to New York and learning to see God's work in all aspects of life, including sports -• Expressing desire to fully accept Jesus into her life and dedicate herself to Him -• Quoting Jeremiah 17:7-8 as inspiration for living out her faith in the future -• A passage from Ephesians is read, emphasizing trusting in God and His power. -• Ally shares her testimony about growing up in a Christian home but struggling with trusting in God as an adult until recently. -• She discusses the concept of not knowing what the future holds, but trusting in God's plans for her life. -• Kim Prince speaks on Ally's behalf, highlighting her growth in faith and maturity over the past couple years. -• Kim shares two Bible passages: 1 Timothy 4:12 and Hebrews 11:1, emphasizing setting an example through actions and living by faith despite not having all the answers. -• Faithfulness and testimony of three young people -• Recognition of the fruit of God's labor in their lives -• Profession of faith by Casey, Madden, and Ali through four questions -• Welcome to full communion and participation in church life for Casey, Madden, and Ali -• Invitation for congregation to speak a word of encouragement to new members -• Prayer over Casey, Madden, and Ali -• Song "Death Was Arrested" sung by the congregation -• Worship song about freedom from shame and debt -• Offering for The Well church plant in Kelowna, BC -• Prayer or devotion by Yap, a deacon at Langley Emanuel -• Song about being in God's love and wanting more of Him -• Announcement about children's worship time and activities -• Highlights from the last council meeting before summer, including welcoming new members and thanking outgoing ones -• Review of financial statements and recommendations from finance committee -• Update on kitchen planning committee's progress and additional feasibility assessments -• Ongoing staff evaluation process -• Update from board of stewards -• Handover of chair position to Paul Kuhl and election of Clary Klosterhoff as vice-chair -• Prayer for church family, including those who have professed their faith, the grieving, shut-ins, and a member undergoing surgery -• Intercession for community, nation, and world -• Thanking God for faithfulness, blessings of community and fellowship, and gift of life -• Introduction to the service -• Encouragement to children to bring their own Bibles to church -• Reading from 2 Corinthians 8:1-15 about generosity and giving -• Discussion on the Macedonian churches' example of generosity in the midst of poverty -• Exhortation for the congregation to excel in this act of grace, to give themselves first to God and then to others -• Introduction to a profession of faith Sunday with talk of money and wealth as a test of sincerity -• Reframing the discussion as the words of God rather than the pastor's words -• The gospel changes everything, including one's approach to money -• Serving God and serving money are mutually exclusive -• The single most indicative way to show the truth of God's grace is how one handles money -• Paul's point in the text is that giving should be an extension of the unmerited grace offered in Jesus -• Giving should not be seen as a duty or obligation, but rather as a response to the freedom and generosity of God -• The example of the Macedonian churches demonstrates the impact of living with a heart turned towards God. -• Overflowing joy comes from knowing God -• Generosity is a demonstration of God's grace -• The Macedonians' generosity was a result of receiving God's grace, not wealth -• Giving is motivated by gospel joy, not personal gain -• Where there is joy in God's grace, even poverty cannot stop it from leading to generosity -• Receiving God's grace leads to overflowing with joy and meeting needs -• Giving sacrificially is a model of the New Testament, not just giving from excess -• The example of the Corinthian church shows generosity as proof of receiving God's grace -• Generosity with money is a test of sincerity in appropriating Jesus' life and resurrection -• In a culture obsessed with money and happiness, giving away what others pursue is a testimony to having received God's love -• Priorities in giving reflect what we truly love and who we truly love -• The importance of loving and following God's will -• Professing faith in church and doing what God does -• The significance of giving and generosity, with money being a test of love -• Jesus Christ's sacrifice for humanity and the concept of becoming rich through his poverty -• The joy and fulfillment that comes from generous living -• The principle of giving out of what one has, not out of excess or what they don't have -• Generosity as a key aspect of God's work -• The concept of generosity and giving is connected to reflecting Jesus' character -• Sacrificial giving, not the amount given, is what truly matters -• Generosity can be tested by seeing if it makes a difference and costs something -• Spiritual health is linked to generous giving as a sign of receiving God's grace -• A priority between personal wealth and spiritual health must be considered -• Everyone, including children, has the capacity for generosity and should strive to give more -• Unity in the Spirit and Lord -• Importance of love as a identifier of Christians -• Walking with each other in unity and spreading God's message -• Praise to the Father, Christ Jesus, and Holy Spirit -• Encouragement to go into the week with God's blessing -• Reminders about upcoming events (food drive, Connect booth) -• Discussion group on Synod -• Blessing of God for protection and guidance -• The speaker's blood has covered their sin and is now free from shame -• Their pain has been healed in the name of God -• They believe in God's power to conquer death and raise them up -• They will raise a banner proclaiming God's victory over the grave -• They are lifted by God's burden-lifting power and rise with Him -• They will dance on a mountaintop to see God's kingdom come -• God is their Redeemer who lives, repeatedly stated throughout the passage \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, June 30, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, June 30, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 8d1ba3dad4cf795ec89222744fb2dbd26ba16bc9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, June 30, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1295 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 3.16] I redeeming love. -[5.40 --> 11.28] Here I raise my Ebenezer. -[11.68 --> 15.88] Hither by thy help I come. -[17.04 --> 21.68] And I hope by thy good pleasure -[21.68 --> 26.50] safely to arrive at home. -[26.50 --> 32.40] Jesus sought me when a stranger -[32.40 --> 37.56] wandering from the fold of God. -[38.44 --> 43.06] He to rescue me from danger -[43.06 --> 48.18] interposed His precious blood. -[50.26 --> 56.38] How your kindness yet pursues me -[56.38 --> 61.68] how your mercy never fails me -[61.68 --> 67.02] till the day that death shall lose me. -[67.02 --> 72.70] I will sing, oh I will sing. -[72.70 --> 80.00] Oh to grace how great a debtor -[80.00 --> 85.34] daily I'm constrained to be -[85.34 --> 90.64] let thy goodness like a fetter -[90.64 --> 95.98] bind my wandering heart to thee -[95.98 --> 101.28] prone to wander Lord I feel it -[101.28 --> 106.62] prone to leave the God I love -[106.62 --> 111.92] here's my heart Lord take and seal it -[111.92 --> 117.26] seal it for thy courts above -[117.26 --> 127.90] seal it for thy courts above -[127.90 --> 133.56] how your kindness yet pursues me -[133.56 --> 138.86] how your kindness yet pursues me -[138.86 --> 144.20] how your mercy never fails me -[144.20 --> 149.50] till the day that death shall lose me. -[149.50 --> 154.84] I will sing, oh I will sing. -[154.84 --> 165.48] Till the day that death shall lose me -[165.48 --> 167.48] I will sing, oh I will sing. -[167.48 --> 169.48] Till the day that death shall lose me -[169.48 --> 172.06] I will sing, oh I will sing. -[172.06 --> 179.06] Till the day that death shall lose me -[179.06 --> 184.70] I will sing, oh I will sing. -[184.70 --> 190.70] Till the day that death shall lose me -[194.70 --> 199.34] prune to wander Lord I feel it -[199.34 --> 204.26] prone to leave the God I love -[204.26 --> 209.96] here's my heart Lord take and seal it -[209.96 --> 214.80] Seal it for Thy courts above -[214.80 --> 217.90] Here's my heart, Lord -[217.90 --> 220.64] Take and seal it -[220.64 --> 225.36] Seal it for Thy courts above -[239.96 --> 255.16] You traded riches -[255.16 --> 260.50] To run to my rescue -[260.50 --> 264.98] Oh, my Redeemer -[264.98 --> 269.46] You take the pieces -[269.46 --> 274.86] And turn them to praises -[274.86 --> 279.30] Oh, my Redeemer -[279.30 --> 286.74] Oh, my Redeemer -[286.74 --> 293.38] Love I cannot deny -[293.38 --> 296.62] Sure as the morning light -[296.62 --> 302.02] Jesus, my Redeemer -[302.02 --> 312.48] You paid my ransom -[312.48 --> 317.82] You chose to suffer -[317.82 --> 322.42] Oh, my Redeemer -[322.42 --> 329.88] Oh, my Redeemer -[329.88 --> 335.28] Love I cannot deny -[335.28 --> 339.28] Sure as the morning light -[339.28 --> 344.68] Jesus, my Redeemer -[344.68 --> 346.74] Jesus, my Redeemer -[346.74 --> 350.80] Now I'm not ashamed -[350.80 --> 354.20] To You be the highest praise -[354.20 --> 358.64] Jesus, my Redeemer -[358.64 --> 361.10] My Redeemer -[361.10 --> 361.62] Oh, my Redeemer -[361.62 --> 362.56] My Redeemer -[362.56 --> 376.90] No other one -[376.90 --> 379.56] So glorious. -[382.56 --> 387.26] You outshine the sun. -[387.26 --> 394.04] No other love like Jesus. -[396.32 --> 401.62] You outshine the sun. -[401.62 --> 408.78] You outshine the sun. -[410.78 --> 415.96] You outshine the sun. -[418.16 --> 423.20] Yeah, you outshine the sun. -[423.20 --> 425.20] Yeah. -[431.62 --> 436.78] You outshine the sun. -[436.78 --> 438.78] You outshine the sun. -[438.78 --> 439.78] Yeah. -[439.78 --> 442.78] Love I cannot deny. -[442.78 --> 445.78] Sure as a morning light. -[445.78 --> 451.74] Jesus, my redeemer. -[451.74 --> 454.40] My redeemer. -[454.40 --> 457.36] Now I'm not ashamed. -[457.36 --> 461.58] To you be my highest praise. -[461.58 --> 466.02] Jesus, my redeemer. -[466.02 --> 467.70] My redeemer. -[467.94 --> 469.64] My redeemer. -[469.64 --> 469.82] My redeemer. -[475.78 --> 486.76] My redeemer. -[486.76 --> 487.68] Yeah. -[487.68 --> 491.94] My redeemer. -[491.94 --> 492.38] Yeah. -[492.38 --> 494.26] Yeah. -[494.26 --> 494.52] My redeemer. -[494.52 --> 503.72] At least I don't try there -[517.46 --> 523.10] Welcome to Mc pulsing -[523.10 --> 537.10] Even the sparrow has a place to lay it set -[537.10 --> 543.10] So why would I let worry steal my breath? -[543.10 --> 554.10] Even the roses You have clothed in brilliant red -[554.10 --> 561.10] Still I'm the one you love more than this -[561.10 --> 569.10] You give me everything You give me everything -[569.10 --> 576.10] You give me everything I need -[576.10 --> 596.10] Even the oceans -[596.10 --> 603.10] Push and pull at your command -[603.10 --> 609.10] So you can steal my heart with your hand -[609.10 --> 619.10] You tell the seasons When it's time for them to turn -[619.10 --> 626.10] So I would trust you even when it hurts -[626.10 --> 635.10] You give me everything, you give me everything -[635.10 --> 639.10] You give me everything, you give me everything -[639.10 --> 642.10] I need -[642.10 --> 646.10] You give me everything -[646.10 --> 650.10] You give me everything -[650.10 --> 655.10] You give me everything -[655.10 --> 658.10] I need -[658.10 --> 663.10] When I can't see you lead me -[663.10 --> 667.10] When I can't hear you show me -[667.10 --> 674.10] When I can't stand you carry me -[674.10 --> 679.10] When I'm lost you will find me -[679.10 --> 683.10] When I'm with you I'm mighty -[683.10 --> 691.10] You are everything I need -[691.10 --> 695.10] You give me everything -[695.10 --> 699.10] You give me everything -[699.10 --> 703.10] You give me everything -[703.10 --> 707.10] I need -[707.10 --> 711.10] You give me everything -[711.10 --> 715.10] You give me everything -[715.10 --> 719.10] You give me everything -[719.10 --> 725.10] You give me everything -[725.10 --> 729.10] You give me everything -[729.10 --> 733.10] You give me everything -[733.10 --> 737.10] Everything I need -[737.10 --> 741.02] I need you. -[741.02 --> 744.02] You give me everything. -[750.42 --> 755.50] Everything I need. -[767.10 --> 797.08] Everything I need. -[797.10 --> 827.08] Everything I need. -[827.10 --> 857.08] Everything I need. -[857.10 --> 887.08] Everything I need. -[887.08 --> 890.62] Good morning. -[892.24 --> 894.88] Welcome to worship. -[895.16 --> 897.32] Welcome to Langley Emanuel Church. -[897.42 --> 900.84] A special welcome if you are a guest with us this morning. -[901.26 --> 906.14] We are in the midst of the full-on lived experience of summer. -[906.96 --> 916.52] And so thank you for being here, especially if you're a guest to participate in and witness the profession of faith from three of our members later in our service. -[916.52 --> 921.48] We're excited to have you all here together and worship our God. -[921.54 --> 924.48] Before we begin, we have a couple announcements to make. -[924.48 --> 937.30] First of all, after service today, if you are interested, I will be leading a recap discussion on the events and decisions of Synod 2024. -[937.30 --> 942.34] Synod is the bi-national gathering of leaders from the Christian Reformed Church. -[942.34 --> 944.32] It happened a couple weeks ago. -[944.32 --> 953.90] And there's some decisions that are made and coming out of that, some impacts for our life and shared ministry as Christian Reformed Churches. -[953.90 --> 961.16] And so after service, about 15 minutes after we end, so you'll have time to grab a coffee and chat with some people. -[961.28 --> 963.08] But then we'll meet in the multipurpose room. -[963.46 --> 968.54] And then I'll walk you through what my experience as a delegate this year was like. -[968.54 --> 980.32] Additionally, the deacons are working on putting together and hosting our annual summer food drive. -[980.90 --> 988.04] And so the way this is facilitated is that we have grocery bags donated from different local grocery chains. -[988.04 --> 991.24] And we put a little tag on them, a flyer on them. -[991.24 --> 1002.68] And then on July 7, groups of people will canvas the neighborhood, giving out those bags with the instructions on when to return them full of groceries. -[1003.46 --> 1012.48] And so we're looking for people to help on July 7th to hand out those bags and different routes through the neighborhood around our church. -[1012.48 --> 1028.68] And then to help on July 13th, when we're going to host a bit of a family fun day and festival, a pancake breakfast, and an opportunity to drop those bags off full of groceries so that we can then bring them to the Langley Food Bank. -[1029.30 --> 1037.86] One of the things we know during the summer, donations to the food bank drop precipitously, but need goes up. -[1037.86 --> 1041.74] Because kids aren't receiving food programs at school and the like. -[1042.26 --> 1045.54] And so they're at home more and then need more food at home. -[1046.28 --> 1051.76] And so it creates a bit of a hard time for the food bank because their need goes up, but their donations go down. -[1051.82 --> 1055.02] And so we want to try to fill a gap for them in this way. -[1055.02 --> 1065.02] And so please, there will be a deacon, I think it'll be Brenda, at the Connect booth after service to get details about how you can help and sign up and participate in that. -[1065.02 --> 1072.16] And there's also a sign up in the e-bulletin that goes out every week for you to get involved in that. -[1073.14 --> 1082.60] And lastly, we are also looking for a new children's worship time coordinator to take up that role when we start again in September. -[1083.62 --> 1087.92] And so if that's something you might be interested in, you can talk to Pastor Kevin or to myself. -[1088.56 --> 1092.28] We'd happily share what that is like and what's involved there. -[1092.28 --> 1095.84] That's a great opportunity to serve with a team of people. -[1096.18 --> 1101.64] And so if you and a couple friends want to take that on, that's a great time and way to serve in our community there. -[1102.52 --> 1103.68] I think that's it for announcements. -[1103.82 --> 1103.96] Yeah? -[1104.38 --> 1104.70] Good. -[1105.30 --> 1106.40] Kevin gives me the thumbs up. -[1106.46 --> 1107.34] That means it must be so. -[1107.90 --> 1113.44] I'm going to invite you, as you are able, to stand and we can be ushered into God's presence together. -[1113.44 --> 1124.64] Father, we come into this place because God has called us and he meets us here and we mark God's presence by receiving his greeting. -[1124.98 --> 1130.42] But God not only comes to us from this stage down, but also in the midst of his body. -[1130.42 --> 1138.98] And so after I give you God's greeting, I invite you to turn to those around you and to welcome them into worship by passing the peace of Christ, -[1139.06 --> 1141.80] saying the peace of Christ be with you or saying the Lord be with you. -[1141.98 --> 1145.50] And we mark God's presence in our midst in that way as well. -[1145.84 --> 1147.64] Receive the greeting of our God. -[1148.76 --> 1156.12] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, Son and our Savior, -[1156.12 --> 1158.96] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[1159.96 --> 1160.28] Amen. -[1160.42 --> 1160.72] Amen. -[1190.42 --> 1201.94] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 89. -[1201.94 --> 1206.34] I will sing of the Lord's great love forever. -[1206.60 --> 1212.58] With my mouth, I will make your faithfulness known through all generations. -[1212.58 --> 1221.28] I will declare that your love stands firm forever, that you have established your faithfulness in heaven itself. -[1223.00 --> 1224.24] Let's open with prayer. -[1224.24 --> 1229.34] Father, Father, open our eyes to see your faithfulness throughout our lives. -[1229.52 --> 1233.24] As we worship this morning, help us to sing of your great love and faithfulness. -[1233.66 --> 1234.94] We long to worship you. -[1235.44 --> 1235.76] Amen. -[1235.76 --> 1235.92] Amen. -[1265.76 --> 1280.28] runs dry. Drink of the water, come and thirst no more. Come all you sinners, come find his -[1280.28 --> 1290.54] mercy. Come to the table, he will satisfy. Taste of his goodness, find what you're looking -[1290.54 --> 1306.90] for. For God so loved the world, he gave us his one and only son to save us. Whoever believes -[1306.90 --> 1320.52] in him will live forever. Bring all your failures, bring your addictions, come lay them down. -[1320.54 --> 1336.00] Down at the foot of the cross, Jesus is waiting there with open arms. For God so loved the world -[1336.00 --> 1347.50] that he gave us, his one and only son to save us. Whoever believes in him will live forever. -[1350.54 --> 1362.50] The power of hell, forever defeated, now it is well. I'm walking in freedom for God so loved, -[1362.88 --> 1369.54] God so loved the world. Praise God, praise God, from whom all blessings flow. Praise him, -[1369.54 --> 1395.54] praise him, praise him, for the wonders of his love. Praise God, praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[1395.54 --> 1404.54] praise him, praise him, praise him, for the wonders of his love. -[1404.54 --> 1417.54] For God so loved the world that he gave us, his one and only son to save us. For God so loved the world that he gave us, his one and only son to save us. -[1417.54 --> 1424.54] Whoever believes in him will live forever. -[1424.54 --> 1432.54] Whoever believes in him will live forever. The power of hell, forever defeated, now it is well. I'm walking in freedom for God so loved. -[1432.54 --> 1453.54] God so loved the world. God so loved the world. -[1453.54 --> 1474.54] God so loved the world. -[1474.54 --> 1492.54] God so loved the world. -[1492.54 --> 1493.54] God so loved the world. -[1493.54 --> 1494.02] I love you, Lord. -[1494.02 --> 1496.54] I love you, Lord. -[1497.54 --> 1497.74] God so loved you, Lord. -[1497.74 --> 1501.54] Oh, your mercy never fails me. -[1501.54 --> 1503.54] God so loved you, Lord. -[1503.54 --> 1506.54] God so loved me Theatre вещи in Christ, Terre Haure, -[1506.54 --> 1509.54] God so loved you. -[1509.54 --> 1511.82] your mercy never failed me. -[1511.82 --> 1515.54] All my days I have been held in your hands. -[1515.54 --> 1526.42] I lay my head I will sing of the goodness of God -[1529.22 --> 1535.70] and all my life you have been faithful -[1537.22 --> 1544.98] and all my life you have been so so good -[1544.98 --> 1556.18] with every breath that I am able I will sing of the goodness of God -[1558.58 --> 1565.86] I love your voice you have led me through the fire -[1565.86 --> 1578.90] in darkest night you are close like no other I've known you as a father -[1578.90 --> 1590.10] I've known you as a friend and I have lived in the goodness of God -[1590.10 --> 1598.82] and all my life you have been faithful -[1598.82 --> 1608.02] and all my life you have been so so good -[1608.02 --> 1620.98] with every breath that I am able I will sing of the goodness of God -[1620.98 --> 1630.34] your goodness is running after it's running after me -[1630.34 --> 1638.18] your goodness is running after it's running after me -[1638.18 --> 1644.34] with my life laid down I'm surrendered now I give you everything -[1644.34 --> 1653.54] your goodness is running after it's running after me -[1653.54 --> 1664.74] your goodness is running after it's running after me -[1664.74 --> 1669.94] your goodness is running after me -[1669.94 --> 1683.94] your goodness is running after it's running after me -[1683.94 --> 1691.22] your goodness is running after me -[1691.22 --> 1701.14] your goodness is running after me -[1701.14 --> 1705.14] your goodness is running after me -[1705.14 --> 1707.54] all good -[1707.54 --> 1710.52] with every breath -[1710.52 --> 1713.10] that I am able -[1713.10 --> 1716.88] I will sing -[1716.88 --> 1718.42] of the goodness -[1718.42 --> 1720.76] of God -[1720.76 --> 1725.00] I will sing -[1725.00 --> 1726.50] of the goodness -[1726.50 --> 1728.82] of God -[1735.14 --> 1753.40] worthy is -[1753.40 --> 1755.14] the -[1755.14 --> 1757.04] lamb who was -[1757.04 --> 1758.88] slain -[1758.88 --> 1760.86] holy, holy -[1760.86 --> 1763.04] is he -[1763.04 --> 1767.04] sing -[1767.04 --> 1769.04] a new song -[1769.80 --> 1771.30] to him -[1771.30 --> 1773.04] who sits on -[1773.76 --> 1775.28] heaven's -[1775.28 --> 1776.24] mercy -[1776.24 --> 1778.04] see -[1778.04 --> 1781.04] worthy -[1782.52 --> 1784.04] is the -[1784.04 --> 1785.04] lamb -[1786.18 --> 1786.84] who was -[1786.84 --> 1787.04] slain -[1788.70 --> 1790.76] holy, holy -[1790.76 --> 1792.04] is he -[1793.04 --> 1795.04] sing -[1797.04 --> 1798.04] a new song -[1799.66 --> 1801.00] to him -[1801.00 --> 1802.04] who sits on -[1803.40 --> 1804.04] heaven's -[1804.98 --> 1805.04] mercy -[1805.92 --> 1806.04] see -[1807.04 --> 1814.04] holy, holy, holy -[1814.04 --> 1815.80] is the Lord -[1815.80 --> 1817.38] God almighty -[1817.38 --> 1819.38] who was -[1819.38 --> 1820.34] and is -[1820.34 --> 1821.18] and is -[1821.18 --> 1822.38] to come -[1822.38 --> 1826.84] with all -[1826.84 --> 1827.38] creation -[1827.90 --> 1829.02] I sing -[1829.02 --> 1830.20] praise to -[1830.20 --> 1831.26] the King of -[1831.26 --> 1831.38] kings -[1831.38 --> 1833.38] you are -[1834.12 --> 1835.02] my everything -[1835.02 --> 1837.54] and I will -[1837.54 --> 1839.38] adore you -[1839.38 --> 1847.40] redeems -[1847.40 --> 1847.52] are -[1847.52 --> 1852.38] o each -[1852.38 --> 1853.62] of their -[1853.72 --> 1855.38] for all -[1855.38 --> 1855.58] of the -[1855.58 --> 1856.80] de ver -[1856.80 --> 1860.04] in rain app -[1860.04 --> 1861.24] he is a -[1861.24 --> 1861.42] holiday -[1861.42 --> 1862.50] Benny -[1862.50 --> 1865.76] cleaner -[1865.76 --> 1878.24] blessing and honor strength and glory and power be to you the old man -[1878.24 --> 1880.08] wise king -[1884.08 --> 1893.76] holy holy holy is the lord god almighty who was and is and is to come -[1895.76 --> 1923.76] with all creation i sing praise to the king of kings you are my everything and i will adore you -[1925.76 --> 1937.76] filled with wonder awestruck wonder at the mention of your name -[1937.76 --> 1951.76] filled with wonder awestruck wonder at the mention of your name -[1951.76 --> 1965.76] jesus your name is power breath and living water such a marvelous mystery -[1965.76 --> 1979.76] holy holy holy holy is the lord god almighty who was and is and is to come -[1979.76 --> 1983.76] is to come -[1984.96 --> 1997.76] with all creation i sing praise to the king of kings you are my everything and i will adore you -[1997.76 --> 2027.76] -[2027.76 --> 2041.76] you may be seated -[2041.76 --> 2062.48] oh i there it is i would love to invite up madden and ally and casey to the front -[2063.20 --> 2068.64] as uh they are going to do their professions if you guys could stand up and start coming up right now -[2068.64 --> 2072.72] i'm gonna have all three of you come all the way up here uh these three are going to be doing their -[2072.72 --> 2077.52] professions of faith today and uh i mean i'm pretty excited about that uh and so they're going to come -[2077.52 --> 2079.68] up this is the way this is going to work they're going to come up they're going to share their -[2079.68 --> 2083.92] testimonies and then one of their mentors are going to come up as well and share on behalf of -[2083.92 --> 2089.60] them too um usually we do ladies first but i'm going to make casey go first is that fine today yeah -[2089.60 --> 2094.64] casey you're going to go first yeah so casey's going to share his testimony this is casey van heemert -[2094.64 --> 2098.64] you can go get that right now -[2100.00 --> 2103.52] hello everyone my name is casey van heemert and i believe -[2107.60 --> 2112.08] i'm standing up here today confidently being able to say that jesus really died on the cross to -[2112.08 --> 2116.64] forgive our sins that he really rose from the grave three days later and that he really is my savior -[2116.64 --> 2122.96] my king my rescuer and my hero i believe this through i believe this through true and genuine -[2122.96 --> 2128.64] faith i've spent my entire life in the christian reform community in my childhood i was brought and -[2128.64 --> 2135.44] sometimes even dragged to church every sunday i attended an awesome christian school lcs and i even -[2135.44 --> 2139.68] watched hours of veggie tales which helped me learn about the classic stories of the bible -[2139.68 --> 2146.40] as a young lad i became numb to it all i was getting bored of christianity i sang the same -[2146.40 --> 2150.80] songs during church services and school chapels every week and i already heard stories like noah -[2150.80 --> 2157.12] and the whale david versus goliath and jesus feeding the 5 000 about a million times so i wondered why would -[2157.12 --> 2164.00] i need to hear them again then i grew up a little bit god has constantly worked for me and has revealed -[2164.00 --> 2168.96] himself to me my whole life but i only really started to notice this throughout high school i started to -[2168.96 --> 2174.88] realize that all these things have been learning about all this time were miraculously true i should -[2174.88 --> 2180.72] and i should glorify glorify him because of this truth god has given me loads of opportunities to do -[2180.72 --> 2186.40] this in recent years i've been able to lead at a super fun summer camp go on some amazing service -[2186.40 --> 2192.00] trips and attend some pretty sweet youth conferences these have been these have become really cool memories -[2192.00 --> 2196.72] where god has worked in me and through me to spread the joy of jesus to others so that they may also -[2196.72 --> 2201.36] experience the greatness of him i've been able to learn tons about what it means to live for jesus -[2201.36 --> 2207.12] and love like him too god has also provided me with some of the greatest family friends youth groups -[2207.12 --> 2211.92] teachers and teammates i could ever ask for i know he has surrounded me with incredible people for a -[2211.92 --> 2216.40] reason so that we may spread his joy and love to others in the world who do not know the good news yet -[2217.12 --> 2222.40] god has an amazing purpose god has an amazing purpose for my family my friends this church our -[2222.40 --> 2228.32] community and even me i'm convinced that jesus is the messiah so i want to hand my life over to him -[2228.32 --> 2232.72] i want to spend my life doing his works on earth and spreading the incredible news of jesus to the -[2232.72 --> 2237.20] world to end my profession of faith i want to read a verse that really stood out to me while writing -[2237.20 --> 2242.64] this it is from ephesians 2 verse 8 which says for it is by grace you have been saved through faith -[2242.64 --> 2247.84] and this is not from yourselves it is the gift of god we are given grace through faith and because of -[2247.84 --> 2262.24] my faith i want to live my life to glorify god so casey has asked his older brother ryan to come up -[2262.24 --> 2267.36] and speak on his behalf but ryan lives in ontario and so what ryan has done is made a little video -[2268.08 --> 2271.20] and that's going to come on the screen right now that you get to watch from up here hi everyone -[2271.92 --> 2278.16] if you don't know me i'm ryan and i'm casey's older brother unfortunately i'm unable to be in -[2278.16 --> 2282.88] person today but i'm still extremely excited and happy to be able to share a couple of words of -[2282.88 --> 2289.36] encouragement for casey's profession of faith casey's love for jesus shows in everything that he does -[2290.08 --> 2294.40] his care for others and his sense of community have always stood out but i think that they've grown -[2295.36 --> 2300.72] more prominent in the last couple of years here while it's been a little bit since i've gone on the -[2300.72 --> 2305.92] service trip with casey i have had the opportunity to go on a couple with him i think that these -[2305.92 --> 2314.08] trips have really shaped his faith with these trips i've seen him grow in the sense that he is -[2314.08 --> 2319.20] always willing to give a helping hand he's always there to encourage and celebrate others for their -[2319.20 --> 2326.88] achievements and he's very slow to judge but very quick to love i've seen this both both as a -[2326.88 --> 2332.80] brother i've seen this as a friend i've also seen this um just in the random people that he interacts -[2332.80 --> 2341.52] with on a day-to-day basis these are all clear examples of the love of jesus in his life in the -[2341.52 --> 2346.72] next year casey's going to meet a lot of new people whether they're fellow students fellow teammates -[2347.52 --> 2354.16] players on opposing teams professors or the many little random interactions that he has throughout the -[2354.16 --> 2360.48] day i hope casey that you are able to continue reflecting christ's love in all of these -[2360.48 --> 2366.80] interactions and i know that you'll be able to do so congratulations on this really big step in your -[2366.80 --> 2372.88] faith journey i and all the other people in your life and in this church congregation are really proud -[2372.88 --> 2380.40] of you and really happy for you i'm extremely excited to see how your faith continues in your life -[2380.40 --> 2383.20] over these next couple years and forever -[2386.88 --> 2388.80] thanks ryan he's watching online he said -[2393.44 --> 2395.20] all right which one of you two wants to go next -[2402.08 --> 2407.60] hi everyone my name is madden um i just graduated from laying the christian i did pastor's class last -[2407.60 --> 2412.72] year and when the time came to decide whether i do my profession of faith i decided not to but i -[2412.72 --> 2418.40] wasn't really sure why um i talked to kevin about it a bit and i came to the conclusion that even though -[2418.40 --> 2422.32] i've grown up in this church and in a christian home and never really had any like life-altering -[2422.32 --> 2427.04] struggles that like rocked my faith it was because i still had lots of questions and doubts and that was -[2427.04 --> 2432.96] okay although that is still true this past year has been one where my relationship with christ has really -[2432.96 --> 2437.52] grown and looking back i'm realizing that my understanding of what i'm professing has improved so -[2437.60 --> 2444.40] much that i feel fully confident in my decision now uh shoot and i can see god's hand in my -[2444.40 --> 2449.12] decision of waiting until this year i think a lot of christians struggle with not having a finding -[2449.12 --> 2453.60] moment in their walks of faith but all that means to me is that god has been defining and shaping my -[2453.60 --> 2458.88] life from the beginning of course i've had struggles and moments when my faith was weaker but he has never -[2458.88 --> 2463.44] left me and looking back it's so obvious my testimony shows god's faithfulness in my life -[2463.44 --> 2467.36] this past year of high school the small moments when the best people have supported me or the -[2467.36 --> 2472.00] right words were said at the right moment or whatever else i could see him working i went on -[2472.00 --> 2476.56] an outreach trip to new york with the school in the spring and it was incredibly transformative i -[2476.56 --> 2480.48] bonded with so many of the kids there and really experienced a much more different lifestyle than i -[2480.48 --> 2485.44] could have imagined i saw god everywhere even in the most heartbreaking parts and that completely -[2485.44 --> 2490.32] changed my perspective to one of gratitude for my life and appreciation for the ways he is working in -[2490.32 --> 2495.28] lives around the world sports have also always been a big part of my life and the people god -[2495.28 --> 2499.44] surround me with through that the big exciting moments and the hard lessons i've experienced -[2499.44 --> 2504.24] and the injuries i've had have all taught me more about jesus and helped shape me not only that looking -[2504.24 --> 2509.36] towards a different life without sports i've learned a lot about myself and who god is and how he works -[2510.16 --> 2515.76] what jesus has done in my life is amazing and moving on to the next chapter of my life i want to fully -[2515.76 --> 2521.12] accept that and dedicate myself to him it's exciting to be moving on to university next year and i want -[2521.12 --> 2526.32] to do it in the way that he wants me to he sacrificed himself for me so i could stand here today and fully -[2526.32 --> 2532.00] accept him into my life but blessed is the one who trusts in the lord whose confidence is in him -[2532.64 --> 2537.52] they will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream it does not fear -[2537.52 --> 2542.88] when heat comes its leaves are always green it has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit -[2542.88 --> 2548.96] uh that's from jeremiah 17 verse 7 to 8 and this is a verse that i recently read and it's become one -[2548.96 --> 2552.80] that i keep going back to because i think it describes what my life with jesus should look like -[2552.80 --> 2557.76] going forward if i trust in him and stay firmly rooted in him and with jesus's help i'm going to -[2557.76 --> 2561.36] do my best to live it out thank you -[2561.36 --> 2573.36] so madden's uh spiritual mentor she asked uh savannah moeller to come and speak on her path -[2573.36 --> 2578.40] but sadly savannah can't be here today either but savannah has written something and so while i'm -[2578.40 --> 2586.56] reading this just picture like savannah instead of me all right so savannah says i have been madden's -[2586.56 --> 2591.28] youth leader since she started high school right from the start i could tell that she was a thinker -[2591.28 --> 2596.48] over the years i've seen madden willing to open up and share her thoughts and contribute to discussions -[2597.36 --> 2602.24] in large groups she's been an example to other youth committed to being there and excited to learn -[2602.24 --> 2607.84] in small group when put on the spot she doesn't shy away from sharing madden is confident in who she -[2607.84 --> 2613.20] is and what she believes she has a strong knowledge of the bible which has shaped her it has been a -[2613.20 --> 2618.48] blessing to get to know you madden and i'm excited savannah savannah's excited i'm excited to witness -[2618.48 --> 2623.84] you do this online she's watching right now that's what that means uh she's excited to see you take -[2623.84 --> 2628.88] this important step in your faith my encouragement for you is to continue to learn and grow from his -[2628.88 --> 2635.60] word make time for him in prayer and trust god in wherever he leads you keep jesus as a priority in -[2635.60 --> 2640.80] your life at the center of all you do and he will keep his promise to hold you steadfast i'll leave -[2640.80 --> 2646.48] you with this passage from ephesians 3 16 to 19 i pray that out of his glorious riches he may -[2646.48 --> 2651.28] strengthen you with power through his spirit in your inner being so that christ may dwell in your -[2651.28 --> 2657.04] hearts through faith and i pray that you being rooted and established in love may have power together -[2657.04 --> 2663.44] with all the lord's holy people to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of christ and -[2663.44 --> 2668.88] to know this love that surpasses knowledge that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of god -[2668.88 --> 2670.56] thanks savannah -[2675.20 --> 2677.20] all right and now i'm going to invite ally up front -[2680.80 --> 2684.64] hello my name is ally and i would like to share a bit of my testimony with you today -[2685.36 --> 2689.44] i got to grow up in a home where we prayed before every meal we read the bible after dinner and we went -[2689.44 --> 2694.48] to church every sunday i always knew that god was the reason that we did those things that he died on -[2694.48 --> 2700.08] the cross for our sins and we praise him for that but i never let that be my reason for me i often let -[2700.08 --> 2704.88] other things get in the way and i struggled to see god through it and i didn't let him be my reason -[2705.76 --> 2710.96] i am someone who loves timelines if you give me a schedule i'll follow it but in life we don't really -[2710.96 --> 2717.12] get one of those jesus doesn't give us a monthly planner that we can follow um but i have learned that -[2717.12 --> 2721.76] i've learned i've learned over the past year that it's okay to not know what's happening because god does and -[2721.76 --> 2726.24] he's in control that used to be such an empty statement to me just something youth leaders -[2726.24 --> 2730.80] would tell you when you were in a stressful situation but now it speaks a lot of truth -[2731.76 --> 2736.24] at the end of the day i don't know what's going to happen tomorrow or next week and god has god has -[2736.24 --> 2741.44] let me see that in such a positive light rather than a negative it's exciting to not know the future -[2741.44 --> 2747.44] when you trust in someone who does jeremiah 29 verse 11 says for i know the plans i have i have for -[2747.44 --> 2752.80] you declares the lord plans to prosper you and not to harm you plans to give you hope and a future -[2753.92 --> 2758.56] i don't know the answer to most questions about faith and life but i do know that i have this life -[2758.56 --> 2764.24] because of the lord the lord has blessed me with amazing family and amazing friends who often feel -[2764.24 --> 2769.68] like family he doesn't need me to know all the answers but he needs me to love and trust in him -[2769.68 --> 2775.04] i will mess up i am in no way perfect and i'm never going to try to be so today is a point for me to -[2775.04 --> 2780.40] say i trust in the lord i put my trust in him and not myself i will put my anxieties on him because -[2780.40 --> 2786.32] he can handle it more than i ever could i trust in the steadfast love of god forever and ever i will -[2786.32 --> 2791.04] thank you forever because you have done it i will wait for your name for it is good in the presence -[2791.04 --> 2798.40] of the godly psalm 52 8. you can stay right up here too because i'm going to invite kim forward -[2798.40 --> 2804.40] allie has asked kim prince to come forward and speak on her behalf -[2811.92 --> 2819.92] oh okay um you guys did so good i like i'm shaking anyways uh i'm just super emotional to see like -[2820.56 --> 2825.92] the future of our church right here this is amazing this is beautiful so um but i'm here to talk about -[2825.92 --> 2833.12] ally so uh i've had the honor of hanging out with ally for the last couple years we started hanging -[2833.12 --> 2839.28] out in gyms now we were very good uh but they kicked us out and we headed to youth group so that's where -[2839.28 --> 2845.84] we've been doing our life together uh and it's been amazing to see ally mature mature and grow in her -[2845.84 --> 2852.80] faith um ally i have two passages for you uh two that came to my mind the first one was instant -[2852.80 --> 2858.96] uh and it comes from first timothy 4 verse 12 don't let anyone look down on you because you're young -[2862.00 --> 2868.96] i'm just gonna just calm my heart a little bit hold on uh but set an example for the believers in -[2868.96 --> 2876.40] speech in conduct in love in faith and in purity i already see you i've already seen you be this -[2876.40 --> 2882.72] individual ally through your actions as staff at camp lcs for the last several years through volunteering -[2882.72 --> 2889.60] as a youth um position in the new ground committee which is like for all of canada which is incredible -[2890.40 --> 2895.84] um the way that you always welcome new people with your warmness and your excitement for them -[2896.56 --> 2903.92] and you're volunteering in the church which comes in many forms you are an example but what i've really -[2903.92 --> 2909.04] loved watching last couple years which you actually spoke to today is that that wrestling with faith -[2909.04 --> 2916.88] um i have i've seen you go through some some hard questions in life and i've seen you seek out -[2916.88 --> 2922.24] answers for those and and be satisfied with not having answers and i think that's been really beautiful -[2923.12 --> 2929.52] um yes and all that wrestling has brought you here to this moment where you might not have all the -[2929.52 --> 2931.84] answers but you are confident in who your god is -[2931.84 --> 2941.44] yes almost done okay second second passage is hebrews 11 verse 1. now faith is confident in what we hope -[2941.44 --> 2943.44] for and assurance about what we do not see -[2948.96 --> 2957.52] ally may you continue to be an example walk in faith and know who god is -[2957.52 --> 2972.32] so now i'm going to invite all three of you to come to the scary part right in the center of the -[2972.32 --> 2976.48] stage here and i'm going to invite pastor chris to come forward and he's going to lead you in -[2976.48 --> 2980.40] the rest of your profession faith so you can stand nice in a row here and i'm going to get out of the way -[2980.40 --> 2991.68] to be clear this isn't the scary part this is the good part why don't you move over just a little bit -[2991.68 --> 3000.24] that way is it the scary spot i don't know casey's fine with it uh we have opportunity this morning -[3000.24 --> 3006.96] to celebrate god's goodness to celebrate god's faithfulness we've heard that testimony we've seen -[3006.96 --> 3012.32] it lived in the lives of these three young people and in the people that have walked with them in -[3012.32 --> 3023.36] faith these sundays are my favorite sundays because you guys are for us a lived example of god's goodness -[3026.48 --> 3035.28] three times already i've been on the verge of tears because you are for us the fruit of the lord's labor -[3035.28 --> 3042.24] in our midst and now you get to join us in that same labor as you already have as you've already -[3042.24 --> 3048.80] been doing but now in a new and particular way and so as you profess your faith we're going to ask you -[3049.36 --> 3055.76] four questions i'll ask all four questions and then address you each by name to give your answer -[3055.76 --> 3062.56] you can respond by saying i do with god's help cool if you forget i'll show you the paper and you can see it -[3062.56 --> 3071.44] it i'll ask all four questions and then i'll start with casey first do you believe that jesus christ is -[3071.44 --> 3078.24] the son of god sent to redeem the world do you love and trust him as the one who saves you from your sin -[3078.24 --> 3086.08] and do you with repentance and joy embrace him as lord of your life and then second do you believe that -[3086.08 --> 3091.68] the bible is the word of god revealing christ and his redemption and that the confessions of this church -[3091.68 --> 3099.36] faithfully reflect this revelation third do you accept the gracious promises of god sealed to you in your -[3099.36 --> 3107.68] baptism and do you affirm your union with christ and his church which your baptism signifies and then fourth -[3108.56 --> 3114.08] do you promise to do all that you can with the help of the holy spirit to strengthen your love and commitment -[3114.08 --> 3120.40] and commitment to christ by sharing faithfully in the life of this church honoring and submitting to -[3120.40 --> 3126.24] its authority and do you join with the people of god in doing the work of the lord everywhere -[3126.96 --> 3135.44] casey what is your answer i do with god's help amen madden what is your answer i do with god's help amen -[3135.44 --> 3147.36] now in the name of our lord jesus christ i welcome you to the privileges of full communion i welcome -[3147.36 --> 3154.32] you to full participation in the life of the church i welcome you to its responsibilities and its joys and -[3154.32 --> 3161.44] its trials and its sufferings and made the god of peace who through the blood of the eternal covenant -[3161.44 --> 3167.28] brought back from the dead our lord jesus christ that great shepherd of the sheep equip you with -[3167.28 --> 3176.00] everything good for doing his will and may he work in you what is pleasing to him through christ jesus -[3176.00 --> 3184.48] to whom be glory forever and ever amen amen congregation i'm going to invite you to thank god -[3184.48 --> 3191.36] and to stand as you do so so thank god by clapping because this is an amazing opportunity -[3201.28 --> 3208.56] now as they have made their professions and commitments you also may speak a word of encouragement -[3208.56 --> 3215.12] to them and so i'm going to ask you one question as well and then i'll invite you to respond with -[3215.12 --> 3222.88] we do with god's help and so do you people of god from emmanuel and representing the people of god -[3222.88 --> 3229.92] around the world do you promise your love encouragement and prayers for casey and for madden and for ali -[3229.92 --> 3239.76] you do with god's help and amen amen you may have a seat together at this point i'm going to invite -[3239.76 --> 3244.32] eric huberts to come forward as an elder of the church he's going to give you guys a gift -[3245.36 --> 3250.08] and then after eric gives a gift we're going to pray over you and so we'll move down there after eric comes -[3250.08 --> 3268.88] up here to give you his gift thanks eric all right if you guys move down here i'm going to invite -[3269.76 --> 3277.20] elders and family members and youth leaders teachers people who have walked with these -[3277.20 --> 3281.60] folks in their journeys of life and faith together that have brought them to this day -[3281.60 --> 3284.48] i'm going to invite you to the front and we're going to lay our hands on them -[3285.36 --> 3291.76] we're going to pray over them a blessing if you don't want to come to the front you may also just -[3291.76 --> 3297.44] hold your hand out and offer the blessing in that way as well because it's probably going to be a large -[3297.44 --> 3306.00] group don't hesitate come on up excellent if you can't reach casey madden or ali touch the shoulder of -[3306.00 --> 3310.64] the person behind or behind or behind the spirit works through us all together -[3317.36 --> 3318.32] let's pray together -[3320.72 --> 3330.00] lord our god we thank you for your word and spirit through which we come to know jesus christ as lord -[3330.00 --> 3330.64] and savior -[3333.04 --> 3342.48] may casey and madden and ali having professed their faith today never cease to wonder in what you have -[3342.48 --> 3350.48] done for them never cease to praise your name for the goodness of your gospel to them and so help them -[3350.48 --> 3357.92] to continue firmly in the faith to bear witness to your love and to let the holy spirit shape their lives -[3357.92 --> 3365.12] wherever it is that you may take them take them good shepherd into your care that they may -[3365.12 --> 3375.04] loyally endure opposition in serving you and may we with all your children live together in the joy and -[3375.04 --> 3386.40] the power of the holy spirit we ask this lord jesus in the hope of your coming again and all god's people said amen amen -[3386.40 --> 3396.40] we're going to stand and sing a song professing our shared faith together in the words of death was arrested -[3406.40 --> 3412.56] please rise and join us in this song this uh song death was arrested is the uh the anthem that these uh -[3412.56 --> 3426.56] uh that madden and ali and casey requested to sing after their profession of faith -[3426.56 --> 3428.56] the uh -[3431.60 --> 3446.56] alone in my sorrow and dead in my sin lost without hope with no place to begin your love made a way to let mercy come in -[3446.56 --> 3451.78] with that -[3455.44 --> 3460.42] we will -[3463.84 --> 3465.60] excuse me -[3465.60 --> 3467.60] the -[3467.60 --> 3476.80] Morning quiet my feet rose to dance, when death was arrested and my life began. -[3478.88 --> 3487.80] Oh, your grace so free, washes over me. -[3488.80 --> 3495.20] You have made me new, now life begins with you. -[3497.60 --> 3506.14] It's your endless love, pouring down on us. -[3506.14 --> 3513.62] You have made us new, now life begins with you. -[3515.16 --> 3520.10] Released from my chains, I'm a prisoner no more. -[3520.86 --> 3525.10] My shame was ransomed, he faithfully bore. -[3525.10 --> 3531.30] He canceled my debt and he called me his friend. -[3531.54 --> 3535.64] When death was arrested and my life began. -[3538.74 --> 3546.64] Oh, your grace so free, washes over me. -[3546.64 --> 3553.38] You have made me new, now life begins with you. -[3553.38 --> 3564.14] It's your endless love, pouring down on us. -[3564.14 --> 3570.82] You have made us new, now life begins with you. -[3570.82 --> 3578.36] Our Savior displayed on a criminal's cross. -[3581.36 --> 3587.10] Darkness rejoiced as though heaven had lost. -[3587.10 --> 3594.84] But then Jesus rose with our freedom in hand. -[3595.64 --> 3600.74] That's when death was arrested and my life began. -[3600.74 --> 3611.50] Oh, your grace so free, washes over me. -[3611.50 --> 3618.18] You have made me new, now life begins with you. -[3618.18 --> 3628.38] It's your endless love, pouring down on us. -[3628.38 --> 3635.18] You have made us new, now life begins with you. -[3635.18 --> 3641.18] Oh, we're free, free, forever we're free. -[3641.62 --> 3645.22] Come join the song of all the redeemed. -[3645.22 --> 3649.08] Yeah, we're free, free, forever again. -[3649.54 --> 3653.24] When death was arrested and my life began. -[3653.24 --> 3657.48] Oh, we're free, free, forever we're free. -[3657.48 --> 3661.44] Come join the song of all the redeemed. -[3661.44 --> 3665.32] Yeah, we're free, free, forever again. -[3665.78 --> 3669.64] When death was arrested and my life began. -[3669.64 --> 3673.94] When death was arrested and my life began. -[3673.94 --> 3678.60] When death was arrested and my life began. -[3681.90 --> 3682.90] Please have a seat. -[3687.48 --> 3701.60] Good morning. -[3701.60 --> 3707.60] Is that better? -[3707.78 --> 3708.14] There we go. -[3708.78 --> 3709.86] Good morning, my name is Yap. -[3709.86 --> 3712.28] I'm a deacon here at Langley Emanuel. -[3712.84 --> 3715.24] This morning's offering will be for the well. -[3715.24 --> 3719.04] The well is a church plant based out of Kelowna, BC. -[3719.04 --> 3722.78] The well's hope is to create a space for belonging. -[3722.78 --> 3727.82] And also that all who may, that all who come may encounter Jesus. -[3727.82 --> 3733.46] And that they would leave having been seen and heard and inspired to live a little more faithfully. -[3734.46 --> 3739.88] If you wish to give to the general budget, just mark the envelopes in the seats and write it on there. -[3739.98 --> 3741.54] Otherwise, everything else will go to the well. -[3742.10 --> 3742.52] Thank you. -[3745.24 --> 3746.70] Thank you. -[3746.70 --> 3750.10] Thank you. -[3763.92 --> 3764.44] Thank you. -[3764.44 --> 3788.16] would rather be no place I would rather be no place I would rather be -[3788.16 --> 3793.18] than here in your love, here in your love. -[3793.18 --> 3801.24] To set a fire down in my soul that I can't contain, that I can't control. -[3801.90 --> 3808.84] I want more of you, God. I want more of you, God. -[3809.30 --> 3816.38] To set a fire down in my soul that I can't contain, that I can't control. -[3816.38 --> 3824.56] I want more of you, God. I want more of you, God. -[3824.56 --> 3830.74] I want more of you, God. -[3830.74 --> 3832.74] I want more of you, God. -[3832.74 --> 3842.92] No place I would rather be -[3842.92 --> 3846.76] No place I would rather be -[3846.76 --> 3850.34] No place I would rather be -[3850.34 --> 3854.40] Than here in your love, here in your love -[3854.40 --> 3858.02] No place I would rather be -[3858.02 --> 3861.78] No place I would rather be -[3861.78 --> 3865.42] No place I would rather be -[3865.42 --> 3870.26] Than here in your love, here in your love -[3870.26 --> 3873.82] To set a fire down in my soul -[3873.82 --> 3877.68] That I can't contain, that I can't control. -[3877.68 --> 3884.68] I want more of you, God. I want more of you, God. -[3884.68 --> 3892.68] To set a fire down in my soul that I can't contain, that I can't control. -[3892.68 --> 3900.68] I want more of you, God. I want more of you, God. -[3900.68 --> 3907.68] I want more of you, God. I want more of you, God. -[3907.68 --> 3917.68] I want more of you, God. I want more of you, God. -[3917.68 --> 3921.68] Who is a fire down in my soul that I can't control. -[3921.68 --> 3925.68] I want more of you, God. I want more of you, God. -[3925.68 --> 3940.02] Good morning. -[3940.02 --> 3947.12] If you are age three, well, anyway, kids can come up here, up to the front, age three, up to whoever wants to. -[3947.52 --> 3951.64] In the summer for children's worship time, we have a preschool class. -[3951.64 --> 3956.66] So if you are three or four or even going into kindergarten, you're welcome to come. -[3956.84 --> 3962.38] And the rest of the kids, you are going to have the joy of joining the rest of us in church. -[3963.08 --> 3972.82] There are little clipboards out at the booth, if you didn't see that, that have some little activities that are related to what Pastor Chris will be speaking on. -[3972.92 --> 3976.74] And those will be available throughout the summer for the kids who are staying in the service. -[3976.74 --> 3982.08] All right, we're going to stand up and do the blessing right away. -[3982.56 --> 3989.48] And then if you are the preschool kids, you can head off to your regular classroom and enjoy that. -[4006.74 --> 4012.26] Good morning, everyone. -[4012.86 --> 4013.80] My name is Eric. -[4013.94 --> 4017.38] I'm just going to give you a, we had our last council meeting before the summer. -[4017.72 --> 4024.46] And I'm just giving you some highlights of what we were talking about there so you're aware that we're meeting and getting things done. -[4025.24 --> 4029.30] We had a chance to welcome new council members and thank the outgoing members. -[4029.30 --> 4036.58] We reviewed and accepted the recommendations from finance on the financial statements. -[4037.70 --> 4045.22] We received an update from the kitchen planning committee and council is going to pursue additional feasibility assessments on that. -[4045.92 --> 4050.40] We received an update on the ongoing staff evaluation process. -[4050.40 --> 4062.40] So personnel is currently meeting with the staff that we have right now and we're getting someone, a third party in this summer to do an evaluation of Kevin and Chris as well. -[4063.84 --> 4066.60] We also received an update from the board of stewards. -[4069.04 --> 4073.38] We elected, this is my last duty as council chair. -[4073.50 --> 4077.82] So the keys to the chair suite have been passed off to Paul Kuhl. -[4077.82 --> 4079.96] He's going to be the chair of council going forward. -[4080.40 --> 4087.46] Clary Klosterhoff is full council vice and Steve Verkike is going to stay on as a reporter. -[4087.84 --> 4088.40] Thank you. -[4099.52 --> 4100.16] Thanks, Eric. -[4100.34 --> 4103.70] And thank you to all the council members for their faithful service as well. -[4104.10 --> 4105.70] I think that deserves a hand as well. -[4105.70 --> 4106.20] Thank you. -[4110.40 --> 4113.52] Please join me in our church family prayer. -[4113.52 --> 4126.70] Heavenly Father, as we gather in your presence today, we are grateful for your unfailing love and grace that sustain us through every season of life. -[4127.66 --> 4131.56] Your spirit fills this place and your peace surrounds us. -[4132.30 --> 4135.60] We come before you with hearts lifted in praise and thanksgiving. -[4135.60 --> 4143.04] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come. -[4143.92 --> 4146.92] With all creation, we join in singing your praises. -[4147.64 --> 4150.86] You are the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. -[4153.04 --> 4156.44] Forgive us, Lord, for we have fallen short of your glory. -[4156.44 --> 4160.52] We confess our sins and ask for your mercy and forgiveness. -[4161.48 --> 4164.96] Help us to walk in purity and in obedience to your will. -[4167.10 --> 4173.90] Today we lift up to you Casey, Madden, and Allie as they have publicly professed their faith in Jesus Christ. -[4174.54 --> 4176.46] Thank you for their dedication and courage. -[4177.06 --> 4181.04] But even more than that, thank you for your faithfulness in bringing them to this day. -[4181.04 --> 4185.62] Bless them with your wisdom and strength as they grow in their journey with you. -[4187.38 --> 4190.92] Lord, we also bring before you those who are grieving the loss of loved ones. -[4192.12 --> 4197.28] Comfort them with your presence and surround them with your peace that surpasses all understanding. -[4198.32 --> 4202.92] Bring healing to their hearts and remind them of the hope that we have because of Christ. -[4205.04 --> 4207.80] We pray for our shut-ins and lonely members, Lord. -[4207.80 --> 4212.42] May they feel your loving embrace and the support of this church family. -[4213.60 --> 4219.62] Grant them moments of joy and companionship and strengthen them with your grace in their times of solitude. -[4221.58 --> 4226.98] We also pray for strength and courage for the Vartstra family with Everly's pending surgery on Thursday. -[4228.28 --> 4231.12] Grant wisdom to the doctors and full healing for Everly. -[4233.48 --> 4237.66] We intercede for our community, for our nation, and the world. -[4237.80 --> 4243.06] May your kingdom come and your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. -[4244.10 --> 4249.96] Bring healing to the sick, comfort to the suffering, and reconciliation to the brokenhearted. -[4252.72 --> 4256.00] Thank you, Lord, for your faithfulness that endures forever. -[4256.88 --> 4260.78] We rejoice in the blessings of community and fellowship within this church. -[4261.44 --> 4265.92] Thank you for the gift of life and for every good and perfect gift that comes from you. -[4265.92 --> 4270.14] We also thank you for the word that we are about to hear, -[4270.40 --> 4273.32] and we pray for your blessing on Pastor Chris as he brings it to us. -[4273.96 --> 4278.32] May we have ears to listen and hearts of flesh that can be moved by your word. -[4280.40 --> 4284.84] As we conclude our time of prayer, we unite our voices with the heavenly chorus. -[4285.64 --> 4287.38] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain. -[4287.90 --> 4289.30] Holy, holy is he. -[4289.96 --> 4293.20] Sing a new song to him who sits on heaven's mercy seat. -[4293.20 --> 4298.24] May your peace guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus, -[4298.72 --> 4301.46] and may we continue to shine your light in the world. -[4302.36 --> 4303.56] In Jesus' name we pray. -[4304.26 --> 4304.62] Amen. -[4304.62 --> 4304.72] Amen. -[4304.72 --> 4304.78] Amen. -[4304.78 --> 4304.82] Amen. -[4304.82 --> 4304.84] Amen. -[4304.84 --> 4304.88] Amen. -[4304.88 --> 4306.84] Amen. -[4306.84 --> 4306.88] Amen. -[4306.88 --> 4306.92] Amen. -[4306.92 --> 4308.76] Amen. -[4308.76 --> 4308.80] Amen. -[4323.20 --> 4324.32] Amen. -[4324.32 --> 4325.16] Amen. -[4326.28 --> 4326.74] Amen. -[4334.68 --> 4335.78] Amen. -[4335.78 --> 4336.00] Amen. -[4336.40 --> 4336.92] Amen. -[4336.92 --> 4337.24] Amen. -[4337.48 --> 4337.98] Amen. -[4337.98 --> 4339.98] Amen. -[4340.38 --> 4340.90] Amen. -[4340.90 --> 4343.28] Amen. -[4345.42 --> 4346.14] Amen. -[4346.26 --> 4346.60] Amen. -[4346.60 --> 4347.26] Amen. -[4347.26 --> 4347.84] Amen. -[4347.84 --> 4348.28] Amen. -[4348.28 --> 4348.60] Amen. -[4348.60 --> 4348.78] Amen. -[4348.78 --> 4350.58] Amen. -[4350.58 --> 4350.62] Amen. -[4350.62 --> 4350.74] shooter. -[4350.74 --> 4350.88] Amen. -[4351.40 --> 4351.76] Amen. -[4351.76 --> 4352.70] Amen. -[4352.70 --> 4359.02] and follow along. And I'm mindful of the fact that we have kids in our worship for the summer. -[4359.96 --> 4365.16] And so for you kids, I want to encourage you to talk with your parents, but try to make a regular -[4365.16 --> 4372.48] habit of bringing your own Bibles into church so that you can read with us and then maybe -[4372.48 --> 4379.44] underline some things or draw some pictures or whatever. And for the kids, if you're drawing -[4379.44 --> 4385.04] pictures during the service, I'd love to see them afterwards. I have a collection of kids' drawings -[4385.04 --> 4389.20] actually from sermons. Some of them are hilarious because they're pictures of me, and some of them -[4389.20 --> 4392.60] are hilarious because they have nothing to do with anything we said. But you know what? We're all in -[4392.60 --> 4397.66] this together, and the Spirit works through broken vessels like me and like the rest of us here. -[4398.42 --> 4404.94] I'm going to read 2 Corinthians 8, verse 1 through 15 for us to start. -[4404.94 --> 4415.54] And now, brothers and sisters, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the -[4415.54 --> 4423.42] Macedonian churches. In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme -[4423.42 --> 4431.52] poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, -[4431.52 --> 4439.30] and even beyond their ability, entirely on their own. They urgently pleaded with us for the privilege -[4439.30 --> 4445.34] of sharing in this service to the Lord's people, and they exceeded our expectations. -[4446.50 --> 4452.62] They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us. -[4453.76 --> 4460.38] And so we urged Titus, just as he had earlier made a beginning, to bring also to completion this -[4460.38 --> 4467.60] act of grace on your part. But since you excel in everything, in faith, in speech, in knowledge, -[4467.72 --> 4474.34] in complete earnestness, and in the love we have kindled in you, see that you also excel in this -[4474.34 --> 4483.68] grace of giving. I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing -[4483.68 --> 4491.28] it with the earnestness of others. For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was -[4491.28 --> 4498.26] rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you, through his poverty, might become rich. -[4500.06 --> 4506.08] And here is my judgment about what is best for you in this matter. Last year, you who were the first -[4506.08 --> 4512.40] not only to give, but also to have the desire to do so, now finish the work, so that your eager -[4512.40 --> 4519.16] willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it according to your means. For if -[4519.16 --> 4525.04] the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what -[4525.04 --> 4531.42] one does not have. Our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard-pressed, but -[4531.42 --> 4538.22] that there might be equality. At the present time, your plenty will supply what they need, so that in -[4538.22 --> 4544.72] turn, their plenty will supply what you need. The goal is equality, as it is written, the one who has -[4544.72 --> 4551.44] gathered much did not have too much, and the one who gathered little did not have too little. This is -[4551.44 --> 4560.56] the word of the Lord. Now, I want to, at the outset, start by saying, -[4560.56 --> 4572.46] on a profession of faith Sunday, is it weird that the pastor is going to talk about giving and about -[4572.46 --> 4580.40] money? And I know that what I'm about to say might be controversial, because sometimes we bristle -[4580.40 --> 4590.00] at money sermons. But I want to follow in the line of Jesus, who says that there is no more spiritually -[4590.00 --> 4599.80] indicative matter than how you handle your money. The gift of money and wealth is a test of the -[4599.80 --> 4608.70] sincerity of your profession of faith. And so, this is for all of us, not just specifically those of you -[4608.70 --> 4620.16] who have made profession of faith, but in the face of your potential frustration with the words that I am -[4620.16 --> 4628.16] about to say as we talk about money, let me reframe that to say these are the words of God to us. -[4629.36 --> 4636.62] And so, at least start from the perspective that says, what if this is so? What is God trying to say to -[4636.62 --> 4643.50] me in this moment? Not what did that pastor say when he stood in front of us and told us what to do? -[4644.00 --> 4650.84] Start with the perspective that God is speaking to us here. And then, if you have follow-up, you can -[4650.84 --> 4656.70] talk to Pastor Kevin, because I'm going away on vacation for two weeks. But then he's going on -[4656.70 --> 4663.84] vacation in a week. So, you've got about four days to figure that out. All right, let's jump in. So, I -[4663.84 --> 4673.66] heard a story this week about a woman who had grown up in church, but because of circumstances that many -[4673.66 --> 4681.04] of us can imagine and perhaps are familiar with, she left because of what she saw and experienced and -[4681.04 --> 4687.88] what happened to her in that community. And according to her own record of this, to her own account of -[4687.88 --> 4695.10] that, she left because she believed that God accepts us, or what she was taught was that God -[4695.10 --> 4705.48] accepts us based on our own moral effort and based on conforming to a particularly narrow-defined strict -[4705.48 --> 4713.78] rule for life. And so, that made, in her mind, God into some bygone being in the sky that needs to be -[4713.78 --> 4723.00] placated and won over in order to earn his favor. Now, the woman is telling this story because years -[4723.00 --> 4731.50] later, when she started feeling pulled into something again, and she started going back to church, -[4731.88 --> 4740.68] and she started hearing, in her own heart, for the first time, the gospel of free grace in Jesus Christ, -[4740.68 --> 4747.96] by which he loves us and forgives us in spite of ourselves, right, in spite of our efforts or its -[4747.96 --> 4755.10] lack, in spite of our inability to do anything to please him, when she started hearing this truth, -[4755.52 --> 4762.42] her whole world was changed. And when she heard the gospel in this way, her response was, -[4762.42 --> 4774.40] this is a really scary idea. It's good scary, she said, but still scary. And so, when she was asked, -[4774.48 --> 4782.26] what do you mean, good scary? All right, what's so scary about unmerited and free grace? She answered, -[4783.14 --> 4789.26] if I was saved by my good works, then there would be a limit to what God can ask of me, -[4789.26 --> 4796.20] right? If I was saved by my good works, I would be like a taxpayer with certain rights. But if it's -[4796.20 --> 4802.42] really true, she said, that I am a sinner saved by sheer grace at infinite cost to God himself, -[4802.72 --> 4813.28] then there's nothing he can't ask of me. And that's scary. And for some of us, hearing that put -[4813.28 --> 4821.32] that way, this is a terrible realization, right, if my very life, now and eternally, is based entirely -[4821.32 --> 4827.98] on the unmerited, always and forever love of God revealed to us in the life, death, resurrection of -[4827.98 --> 4834.32] Jesus Christ, and that's what we believe the Bible says, then that's going to work its way back and -[4834.32 --> 4840.96] things are going to be different in how I approach the rest of my life, right? Since the gift is -[4840.96 --> 4848.16] infinitely more than I can earn on my own, having received that gift, there's now no limit to what -[4848.16 --> 4855.08] God can ask of me. And if you look at church history, and if you look at the church around the -[4855.08 --> 4864.98] world, even if that means being faithful unto death, or poverty, or moving across the world in response to -[4864.98 --> 4872.04] God's call to be a missionary, or living as a missionary right now in your neighborhood, having -[4872.04 --> 4880.58] to put up with that neighbor who you just can't get along with, if the gospel changes everything, -[4880.96 --> 4889.10] like we say over and over and over again in this church, that includes your money, and your time, -[4889.10 --> 4899.08] and your life. If the gospel changes everything, that includes your money, and your time, and your life. -[4899.52 --> 4908.10] That's the banner under which we work this morning. The gospel changes our approach to money. -[4909.22 --> 4915.92] Jesus makes this abundantly clear. He says explicitly in Matthew 6, and then in Luke 12, -[4915.92 --> 4922.08] no one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to -[4922.08 --> 4929.56] the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. Or he went on to say in Luke 12, -[4929.88 --> 4938.18] for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. So think about this, right? In a culture like -[4938.18 --> 4948.68] ours, a culture that is in so many ways celebrating of greed, of big business, of freedom 55, right? Or 65, -[4948.96 --> 4955.46] or 75, if the cost of living keeps going the way it's going. The single most indicative way that you -[4955.46 --> 4961.90] can show the truth of God's grace in your life in that kind of culture, right? Is how you approach, -[4961.90 --> 4969.78] or think about, or use money? And if you know and have experienced the unmerited, always and forever -[4969.78 --> 4977.28] love of God, your heart is turned towards him. And then how you handle money will give substance to -[4977.28 --> 4984.12] the words you use, to the profession of faith that you make, right? Your appropriation of the new life -[4984.12 --> 4993.92] in Christ that is offered to you. And this, to me, is Paul's point in the text that we read this morning. -[4994.82 --> 5000.96] Right? Paul contrasts the generosity of the Macedonian churches with his hopes for the -[5000.96 --> 5009.30] Corinthian churches based on the gospel truth that, in verse 9, though Jesus was rich, yet for your sake -[5009.30 --> 5018.26] he became poor, so that you, through his poverty, might become rich. And by this, Paul hopes to take -[5018.26 --> 5025.38] the matter of giving, right, of giving in support of this mission, out of the realm of obligation -[5025.38 --> 5032.50] and law, and to shift it, and our perception of it, into the world of unmerited grace. -[5033.58 --> 5038.52] Right? Paul wants to reframe the experience of giving, of offering, -[5038.52 --> 5046.40] so that it becomes an extension of the grace offered to you in Jesus. Right? By grace you have been -[5046.40 --> 5054.50] saved, and so by grace you give. A little background to help us make sense of this text. -[5056.10 --> 5064.02] Sometime earlier, Paul wrote another letter to the Corinthian church, which we have recorded as -[5064.02 --> 5068.68] 1 Corinthians. And in that letter, he writes, -[5068.68 --> 5075.00] Now, about the collection for the Lord's people, do what I told the Galatian churches to do. -[5075.44 --> 5080.16] On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with -[5080.16 --> 5085.62] your income, saving it up, so that when I come, no collections will have to be made. Then, when I -[5085.62 --> 5091.00] arrive, I will give letters of introduction to the men you approve, and send them with your gift -[5091.00 --> 5098.80] to Jerusalem. And now, Paul is on his way to Corinth to gather this collection and to take it -[5098.80 --> 5106.04] to Jerusalem. He heads north around the Aegean Sea through Troas, through the region of Macedonia, -[5106.04 --> 5114.50] and then he's going to come down south there towards Corinth. And on the way, he writes this letter that -[5114.50 --> 5120.42] we have as 2 Corinthians, so that they'll be ready for him when he arrives. And this part of the letter, -[5120.62 --> 5127.70] he hopes to unify, encourage, and motivate the believers in their giving, in their promised giving. -[5128.44 --> 5135.12] Now, notice very clearly, right, Paul doesn't want to guilt people or to force them into giving. -[5135.90 --> 5141.30] This isn't a guilt letter, and I hope you hear it very clearly, this is not a guilt sermon. -[5141.30 --> 5145.82] Rather, Paul says of the Macedonians in verse 2, -[5146.24 --> 5151.84] in the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty -[5151.84 --> 5154.42] welled up in rich generosity. -[5155.50 --> 5161.50] Out of overflowing joy comes generosity. A joy that comes from knowing God -[5161.50 --> 5164.44] leads inevitably to a rich generosity. -[5165.70 --> 5169.86] But notice, again, before Paul commends the Macedonians, -[5169.86 --> 5171.24] he opens by saying, -[5171.34 --> 5177.20] and now, brothers and sisters, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonians. -[5178.12 --> 5183.12] The Macedonians' generosity is a demonstration of God's grace. -[5184.58 --> 5189.06] And so ultimately, Paul is recognizing God's grace in the Macedonians, -[5189.28 --> 5194.18] and crediting them for living out of that grace in a consequent way, -[5194.18 --> 5195.42] in a way that declares, -[5195.42 --> 5196.76] this I believe. -[5197.80 --> 5201.34] God's grace to you makes God's grace come out of you, -[5201.92 --> 5204.34] or from you to others. -[5205.60 --> 5209.86] And the way of God's grace is a way of joy, of true joy, right? -[5210.02 --> 5210.80] Paul will say elsewhere, -[5210.92 --> 5211.94] rejoice always. -[5212.28 --> 5214.36] Again, I say rejoice. -[5215.34 --> 5216.36] And the way of God -[5216.36 --> 5219.68] doesn't make the Macedonians rich in money. -[5219.68 --> 5221.30] In fact, Paul acknowledges, right? -[5221.36 --> 5222.00] Did you catch it? -[5222.20 --> 5223.50] That they live in poverty. -[5224.70 --> 5228.60] God makes them rich in joy because of their appropriation. -[5228.80 --> 5229.74] They're gathering up, -[5229.88 --> 5232.32] and they're receiving of God's grace for life, -[5232.46 --> 5235.62] and for overcoming sin and death by that grace. -[5236.42 --> 5238.50] And so the motive, then, for them, -[5238.84 --> 5241.18] for giving to the church ministry, -[5241.18 --> 5243.56] for the work of Paul and to the church in Jerusalem, -[5243.70 --> 5246.98] the motive for them is gospel joy. -[5246.98 --> 5251.54] And fundamentally, the message of God -[5251.54 --> 5254.18] is a message of comfort and joy, -[5254.34 --> 5256.90] joy inspired by the grace of God. -[5256.98 --> 5259.38] And where there is joy in God's grace, -[5259.78 --> 5264.26] even poverty can't stop it from welling up in generosity. -[5266.16 --> 5269.66] In fact, it's this welling up of generosity -[5269.66 --> 5273.26] that led the Macedonian churches to beg, -[5273.26 --> 5276.98] beg to be included in the offering. -[5277.12 --> 5278.96] In verse 3, Paul writes, -[5279.08 --> 5282.10] For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, -[5282.22 --> 5283.98] and even beyond their ability, -[5284.38 --> 5285.70] entirely on their own, -[5286.02 --> 5288.22] they urgently pleaded with us -[5288.22 --> 5290.60] for the privilege of sharing in this service -[5290.60 --> 5291.92] to the Lord's people. -[5293.92 --> 5296.40] When grace is received and acknowledged -[5296.40 --> 5297.50] and appropriated, -[5297.66 --> 5300.48] joy overflows and needs are met. -[5300.48 --> 5304.20] I visited a church once -[5304.20 --> 5306.24] that had thousands of members. -[5307.22 --> 5309.56] And when it came time in the worship service -[5309.56 --> 5310.78] for the offering, -[5311.74 --> 5313.74] one of the leaders of the church, -[5313.82 --> 5314.54] a deacon in the church, -[5314.62 --> 5315.76] went up to the front and said, -[5315.86 --> 5317.36] Okay, brothers and sisters, -[5317.54 --> 5319.80] we're going to pass the joy box around, -[5320.02 --> 5321.42] and we invite you to give. -[5322.32 --> 5324.20] And for the next five minutes, -[5324.24 --> 5326.22] as the joy boxes were passed through the church, -[5326.22 --> 5328.76] people were literally clapping and celebrating -[5328.76 --> 5330.14] in giving. -[5331.54 --> 5335.06] Giving what they had been given, -[5335.24 --> 5337.24] responding to God's grace -[5337.24 --> 5338.86] and overflowing with joy. -[5340.78 --> 5342.86] I got to be honest and candid with you, -[5343.40 --> 5345.04] when the deacons walk up here -[5345.04 --> 5346.28] to pass our bags around, -[5346.62 --> 5347.78] rarely do I think about clapping. -[5348.66 --> 5349.66] But maybe we should. -[5350.94 --> 5352.34] This is our chance to respond -[5352.34 --> 5354.04] to what God has done in us -[5354.04 --> 5355.42] and is doing through us. -[5356.90 --> 5358.16] Whenever God's grace -[5358.16 --> 5359.86] strikes us to the core, -[5360.24 --> 5361.84] when God gives us -[5361.84 --> 5363.66] what we couldn't ever have earned, -[5363.98 --> 5366.96] our approach to everything else changes. -[5368.88 --> 5370.60] Even that week in and week out -[5370.60 --> 5371.96] liturgical act -[5371.96 --> 5373.18] of passing the bag -[5373.18 --> 5374.38] through the seats. -[5375.82 --> 5376.86] Receiving grace, -[5377.08 --> 5378.12] receiving Christ, -[5378.54 --> 5379.48] our treasure -[5379.48 --> 5380.86] is transformed -[5380.86 --> 5382.10] from the things -[5382.10 --> 5383.32] of this world -[5383.32 --> 5384.80] where moth and rust -[5384.80 --> 5385.44] destroyed, -[5385.78 --> 5387.38] transformed to the joys -[5387.38 --> 5388.92] of knowing Jesus. -[5389.90 --> 5391.46] The Macedonian churches, -[5391.70 --> 5393.24] as an example to us all, -[5393.50 --> 5394.70] looked at their budgets -[5394.70 --> 5395.32] and they were -[5395.32 --> 5396.52] carried forward -[5396.52 --> 5397.30] by the joy -[5397.30 --> 5398.40] of receiving grace. -[5398.54 --> 5399.40] And they gave more -[5399.40 --> 5399.92] than they could, -[5400.12 --> 5400.38] quote, -[5400.42 --> 5401.60] afford to give. -[5401.86 --> 5403.54] They begged for the opportunity -[5403.54 --> 5406.32] to increase their poverty -[5406.32 --> 5408.58] so that the mission of God -[5408.58 --> 5409.86] might be accomplished. -[5411.86 --> 5413.04] Sometimes in our churches, -[5413.70 --> 5413.92] right, -[5413.92 --> 5414.92] we talk about giving -[5414.92 --> 5416.10] from our excess, -[5416.98 --> 5418.16] but that's not the model -[5418.16 --> 5418.90] of the New Testament. -[5420.64 --> 5421.80] The model of the New Testament, -[5422.54 --> 5422.78] right, -[5422.82 --> 5423.64] we're told to give -[5423.64 --> 5424.54] half -[5424.54 --> 5426.18] or all. -[5427.58 --> 5428.40] We're told to give -[5428.40 --> 5429.12] sacrificially. -[5430.84 --> 5432.02] The example that Paul -[5432.02 --> 5432.84] holds up here -[5432.84 --> 5434.30] in the Corinthian church, -[5434.58 --> 5435.66] and this is the example -[5435.66 --> 5436.38] that's held up -[5436.38 --> 5437.70] to us today, -[5437.82 --> 5438.62] Paul says in -[5438.62 --> 5440.08] verse 7 and 8, -[5440.86 --> 5442.56] but since you excel -[5442.56 --> 5443.52] in everything, -[5443.78 --> 5444.28] in faith -[5444.28 --> 5444.98] and in speech -[5444.98 --> 5445.62] and knowledge -[5445.62 --> 5447.24] in complete earnestness -[5447.24 --> 5447.94] and in the love -[5447.94 --> 5449.04] we have kindled in you, -[5449.50 --> 5451.48] see that you also excel -[5451.48 --> 5452.92] in this grace of giving. -[5453.94 --> 5455.06] I'm not commanding you, -[5455.28 --> 5456.18] but I want to test -[5456.18 --> 5456.92] the sincerity -[5456.92 --> 5457.82] of your love -[5457.82 --> 5459.08] by comparing it -[5459.08 --> 5460.12] with the earnestness -[5460.12 --> 5461.26] of others. -[5462.26 --> 5463.38] I want you to hear that. -[5463.38 --> 5466.40] Paul very intentionally -[5466.40 --> 5468.54] avoids commanding -[5468.54 --> 5469.30] people to give. -[5470.64 --> 5470.74] Right, -[5470.96 --> 5471.52] generosity -[5471.52 --> 5473.24] with money, -[5473.38 --> 5473.72] however, -[5473.84 --> 5474.88] is proof -[5474.88 --> 5477.10] of our treasure. -[5477.76 --> 5478.78] It's an indication -[5478.78 --> 5479.96] of receiving -[5479.96 --> 5481.48] the grace of God. -[5482.02 --> 5482.18] Right, -[5482.22 --> 5482.78] how much -[5482.78 --> 5483.68] or how little -[5483.68 --> 5484.50] we give -[5484.50 --> 5485.32] is proof, -[5485.50 --> 5486.78] is testing -[5486.78 --> 5487.66] the sincerity -[5487.66 --> 5489.70] of our appropriation -[5489.70 --> 5490.20] of the life -[5490.20 --> 5491.12] of Jesus' death -[5491.12 --> 5491.80] and resurrection -[5491.80 --> 5492.96] in our place. -[5493.80 --> 5494.62] And in a culture -[5494.62 --> 5495.62] that is dominated -[5495.62 --> 5496.94] so clearly -[5496.94 --> 5497.88] by a love -[5497.88 --> 5498.32] of money -[5498.32 --> 5499.10] and a pursuit -[5499.10 --> 5499.98] of happiness -[5499.98 --> 5501.84] outside of relationship -[5501.84 --> 5502.40] to God -[5502.40 --> 5503.18] in Jesus Christ, -[5503.50 --> 5504.74] perhaps the single -[5504.74 --> 5505.92] greatest testimony -[5505.92 --> 5507.58] that we can give -[5507.58 --> 5509.50] of having received -[5509.50 --> 5510.68] God's love -[5510.68 --> 5512.62] is giving away -[5512.62 --> 5514.18] what everyone else -[5514.18 --> 5515.18] so earnestly -[5515.18 --> 5516.06] pursues for. -[5517.22 --> 5517.64] Right, -[5517.68 --> 5518.72] in line with Jesus' words, -[5518.72 --> 5519.72] the best way -[5519.72 --> 5520.40] to reveal -[5520.40 --> 5521.16] our treasure -[5521.16 --> 5522.04] to the world -[5522.04 --> 5523.42] is by giving away -[5523.42 --> 5524.54] to the world -[5524.54 --> 5525.36] everything that's -[5525.36 --> 5525.98] not our treasure. -[5527.46 --> 5527.58] Right, -[5527.60 --> 5528.38] our priorities -[5528.38 --> 5529.48] in giving -[5529.48 --> 5530.38] reflect what -[5530.38 --> 5531.76] we truly love. -[5531.84 --> 5532.48] Our priorities -[5532.48 --> 5532.90] in giving -[5532.90 --> 5533.76] reflect who -[5533.76 --> 5535.56] we truly love. -[5535.62 --> 5536.40] And if our heart -[5536.40 --> 5537.06] is in line -[5537.06 --> 5538.06] with the heart -[5538.06 --> 5538.52] of grace -[5538.52 --> 5539.24] that we have received -[5539.24 --> 5539.74] from God, -[5539.80 --> 5540.62] we will love -[5540.62 --> 5541.92] what God loves -[5541.92 --> 5542.74] and we will do -[5542.74 --> 5544.14] what God does. -[5545.40 --> 5546.10] And so in a church, -[5546.20 --> 5546.80] we profess -[5546.80 --> 5548.72] and we do -[5548.72 --> 5549.94] and we do -[5549.94 --> 5550.68] and we want impact -[5550.68 --> 5554.18] and we want to see -[5554.18 --> 5554.42] the lost -[5554.42 --> 5554.98] and we want to see -[5554.98 --> 5556.20] the lost saved. -[5556.26 --> 5556.78] We profess -[5556.78 --> 5557.44] and we proclaim -[5557.44 --> 5558.08] that we love -[5558.08 --> 5558.82] the church -[5558.82 --> 5559.96] and we want to see -[5559.96 --> 5561.82] this church built up. -[5562.80 --> 5563.84] What you do -[5563.84 --> 5564.70] with your money -[5564.70 --> 5565.44] is a test -[5565.44 --> 5566.30] of the sincerity -[5566.30 --> 5567.60] of your love. -[5567.70 --> 5568.24] What you do -[5568.24 --> 5569.10] with your wealth -[5569.10 --> 5571.30] and with your poverty -[5571.30 --> 5573.60] is a testimony -[5573.60 --> 5574.78] of the profession -[5574.78 --> 5582.58] of faith, whether you made it this morning or you make it every week when we gather here in this -[5582.58 --> 5594.50] place. Now, I believe that we here, most of us, many of us, I pray all of us, if we don't already, -[5594.62 --> 5600.68] we are becoming, that we here know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, -[5600.68 --> 5608.06] yet for our sake he became poor so that we, through his poverty, might become rich. Right, Jesus Christ, -[5608.28 --> 5615.28] none other than God Almighty himself, through whom the whole world was made, who upholds all things by -[5615.28 --> 5621.04] his power and word, right, the one who existed in perfect communion with the Father and with the -[5621.04 --> 5628.08] Spirit, who knew nothing other than immense joy and perfect fellowship, who basked in the glory of the -[5628.08 --> 5635.98] Godhead. From this infinite, incomprehensible heights and incomparable riches, this Jesus emptied -[5635.98 --> 5645.24] himself and took on the form of a slave. He came down and he belittled himself to be born in a feeding -[5645.24 --> 5651.26] trough in a forgotten part of a forgotten town. He came down and belittled himself to the point of death, -[5651.26 --> 5658.84] an innocent man dying on a criminal's cross. And he did all of this in order that you, that we, -[5658.96 --> 5665.26] might become rich. And not rich in the way of the world, not rich in money or status or other things -[5665.26 --> 5676.62] that fade away, but rich in joy, rich in generosity, rich in love. This is the act of God. This is the grace -[5676.62 --> 5685.96] of God that turns otherwise selfish people into joyful givers. And yes, this can be scary, right? -[5687.58 --> 5698.00] But I pray good scary, right? An unsettling, holy discontent scary because God gave himself up and gave up -[5698.00 --> 5705.12] everything so that we could live, we too, in response, can give up everything for him. -[5707.28 --> 5714.90] It's too easy to think that holding on to things and keeping more and more, or trying to gather other -[5714.90 --> 5720.50] and new and different, or the next best thing, it's too easy to think that that will provide joy and -[5720.50 --> 5730.88] happiness. But God tells us, right, that his purpose in sending Jesus was to provide joy and true blessing. -[5732.74 --> 5740.24] Either God alone is the true source of this joy or something else is. It cannot be both. -[5740.24 --> 5752.80] And this morning, and every day, I'm banking on God. And this morning, as we've heard testimonies from -[5752.80 --> 5759.02] these three young people, they're banking on God. They're calling us to do the same. I plead with you, -[5759.02 --> 5769.66] do the same. Right? And if God values joyful, loving generosity so much that he sent his only son, -[5769.66 --> 5775.82] whom he loves to create a people of joy and generosity, we can be assured that when we are -[5775.82 --> 5784.74] more generous, we will be more fulfilled. And yes, even more joy filled, because we are about the very -[5784.74 --> 5797.62] work of God. Now, as we land this plane and wrap this up, notice by way of application, very intentionally -[5797.62 --> 5807.80] this morning, I have not once put a number or a percentage on our giving, on what you are called -[5807.80 --> 5814.46] to give. Not once have we talked about a specific amount or a percentage or a requirement. And this is, -[5814.46 --> 5822.60] as we've said, intentional, because it's about grace. It's not about rules. And a rule in this cannot be -[5822.60 --> 5828.02] applied across the board. Notice what Paul says. He gives instructions for this in verse 11 and 12. -[5828.88 --> 5835.64] Now finish the work that your eager willingness to do, so that your eager willingness to do it may be -[5835.64 --> 5841.36] matched by your completion of it according to your means. For if the willingness is there, the gift is -[5841.36 --> 5848.26] acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have. So hear that, right? A -[5848.26 --> 5854.76] principle for your giving. You give out of what you have, not out of what you don't have. Now, that's not the -[5854.76 --> 5862.60] same as saying we give out of our excess, right? The hard truth of this is that most of us have more than we -[5862.60 --> 5870.58] give. But what this principle is saying is that a person who makes $25,000 a year and gives a certain percent -[5870.58 --> 5876.94] of that is far more generous than a person who makes $250,000 a year and gives the same percent. -[5879.10 --> 5884.80] Right? There are very wealthy people who give away 90 percent, and they have the ability to live on all -[5884.80 --> 5891.70] the rest, right? That's what generosity can look like. And like the Macedonians, when you have less, -[5891.86 --> 5899.00] the generosity of your giving is more. And if people who have lost their jobs or who have lost a large -[5899.00 --> 5906.40] portion of their savings because of whatever has happened in the previous year, right, that rich -[5906.40 --> 5915.36] generosity, that generosity becomes rich, becomes more because it's coming out of less. And it's more -[5915.36 --> 5921.64] costly, it's more sacrificial, and thus it's more generous. And the more generous we are, the more -[5921.64 --> 5927.44] closely we reflect Jesus. The priority is not the number, hear this, it's the sacrifice. -[5927.44 --> 5934.94] The priority is the reflection of the grace of God. The joy is in the sacrifice, not the number. -[5936.58 --> 5943.44] And so, do you want to test the sincerity of your love? Give until you feel it. -[5944.96 --> 5951.00] Until it makes a difference. Until there's a choice between giving to the mission of God and something -[5951.00 --> 5957.46] else that you like, something else that you love. And then right when you're at that line, give more. -[5958.72 --> 5963.66] Then you're testing the sincerity of your love, when it actually costs you something. -[5965.00 --> 5971.06] Let me be really, really clear, okay? This right here, if you're visiting with us, right, don't hear what -[5971.06 --> 5978.24] I'm not saying. Because this is a super generous church. This church knows how to give and respond -[5978.24 --> 5984.86] to need. And I know that many of you give with this generous attitude and this generous heart. -[5985.26 --> 5989.82] Right, last week at our congregational meeting, someone said we had a $30,000 need, they made a few -[5989.82 --> 5993.24] phone calls, and boom, it was gone. That's amazing. -[5993.24 --> 6003.60] And I know that that is because the gospel changes everything. And I know that you know, -[6003.68 --> 6008.84] it's not enough just to say that, right, that you show it by your giving. -[6010.70 --> 6018.76] But what we also are seeing here is that generous giving is a matter of spiritual health. It's a sign -[6018.76 --> 6026.32] of you having received grace and understanding the cost of grace, not for you, but born by Jesus in -[6026.32 --> 6031.62] your place. And the choice that you are being asked to consider, that we are being asked to consider, -[6031.62 --> 6042.00] is a priority between personal wealth and spiritual health. And don't let the truth that some people -[6042.00 --> 6047.68] here, many people here, are super generous. Don't let the truth of the generosity of this church, -[6047.68 --> 6054.50] by and large, be an excuse for you not to be generous yourself. Don't let the fact that the -[6054.50 --> 6063.36] high cost of living or high inflation be an excuse for low or for not giving. Jesus knew exactly what -[6063.36 --> 6070.92] it would cost him to save you. And because it costs us nothing, we give him everything. And again, -[6070.92 --> 6079.02] let me be really clear, this is for everyone, even you kids here this morning. A couple weeks ago, -[6079.06 --> 6087.10] we started the bottle campaign in the back, right? And on the bottles, it says, donate and save a life. -[6087.74 --> 6093.76] And Malachi, my son, who's nine years old, really wanted one of those bottles. So he went to the back -[6093.76 --> 6100.04] and he worked with Brenda to get it all filled out and then he went home and he emptied his piggy bank -[6100.04 --> 6106.58] into the bottle. And he brought it to Rachel, my wife, and he said, mom, I hope I saved more than one life. -[6108.74 --> 6116.64] That's his heart. Right? Even the youngest among us can show us the generosity of giving. -[6116.64 --> 6129.60] Even you could be an example to us. And to Casey and Madden and Allie, you are an example to us. -[6130.82 --> 6133.82] And let's all be an example to each other. -[6136.30 --> 6142.26] And yes, to be abundantly clear, we spent all morning talking about money and about giving as the -[6142.26 --> 6147.00] test of the sincerity of your love, because that's what our text does. -[6148.22 --> 6150.80] But we all know that this is about so much more than money. -[6152.44 --> 6156.60] Right? Every bit of your life is transformed by the gospel. -[6157.38 --> 6160.58] Right? Jesus said on the cross, it is finished. -[6160.80 --> 6167.36] And when you stand and profess to believe that, that means your new life in him has just begun. -[6167.36 --> 6172.54] And that's what we get to live. That's who we get to be. -[6173.48 --> 6180.02] And I, for one, am excited to see the joy and the generosity that comes from that. -[6180.94 --> 6184.38] All God's people said, amen. Let's pray together. -[6188.32 --> 6190.28] Holy, holy God. -[6190.28 --> 6191.32] Holy, holy God. -[6191.76 --> 6192.08] Holy, holy God. -[6192.72 --> 6197.20] Your gospel is for us true riches. -[6197.54 --> 6200.44] Your gospel is for us true joy. -[6201.12 --> 6207.82] Out of the depths of our own sin, out of the death of our own realities, -[6208.28 --> 6211.16] you have saved us and made us new. -[6212.16 --> 6218.90] And so may our lives together be marked by your grace as we give generously, -[6218.90 --> 6222.76] as we give out of our own grace received -[6222.76 --> 6226.20] so that we might be a people of grace. -[6227.54 --> 6230.84] And God, I praise your name for your goodness, -[6231.06 --> 6232.36] your faithfulness to us -[6232.36 --> 6235.12] as displayed in the professions of faith made, -[6235.38 --> 6238.32] as displayed in the gathering each week of our worship -[6238.32 --> 6240.44] where we boldly proclaim this gospel -[6240.44 --> 6242.24] and we receive the power of your spirit. -[6242.52 --> 6245.62] And I praise your name for the testimonies, -[6245.78 --> 6248.64] for the sincerity of our love for you -[6248.64 --> 6251.84] that is displayed in the giving of this church. -[6252.52 --> 6254.92] Stretch us and grow us, we pray, -[6255.52 --> 6258.44] that we might in ever-increasing measure -[6258.44 --> 6261.84] be more like Jesus in the world around us. -[6262.32 --> 6263.80] It's in his name that we pray. -[6264.48 --> 6264.84] Amen. -[6264.84 --> 6264.98] Amen. -[6271.20 --> 6273.18] Please rise as we respond in song. -[6278.64 --> 6281.72] We are one in the Spirit, -[6281.72 --> 6284.88] we are one in the Lord. -[6284.88 --> 6288.34] We are one in the Spirit, -[6288.72 --> 6291.58] we are one in the Lord. -[6291.84 --> 6295.34] And we pray that all unity -[6295.34 --> 6298.34] may one day be restored. -[6298.34 --> 6298.84] Amen. -[6298.84 --> 6299.14] Amen. -[6299.14 --> 6299.16] Amen. -[6300.22 --> 6304.02] And they'll know we are Christians -[6304.02 --> 6305.48] by our love, -[6305.60 --> 6307.42] by our love. -[6307.50 --> 6310.58] Yes, they'll know we are Christians -[6310.58 --> 6312.54] by our love. -[6316.54 --> 6320.32] We will walk with each other, -[6320.50 --> 6323.34] we will walk hand in hand, -[6323.34 --> 6326.88] we will walk with each other, -[6326.88 --> 6329.84] we will walk hand in hand, -[6329.84 --> 6333.88] and together we'll spread the news -[6333.88 --> 6337.74] that God is in our land. -[6338.54 --> 6341.72] And they'll know we are Christians -[6341.72 --> 6343.12] by our love, -[6343.36 --> 6345.08] by our love. -[6345.16 --> 6348.12] Yes, they'll know we are Christians -[6348.12 --> 6350.00] by our love. -[6350.00 --> 6350.58] Amen. -[6350.58 --> 6351.58] Amen. -[6351.58 --> 6352.58] Amen. -[6352.58 --> 6354.96] Amen. -[6354.96 --> 6357.90] We will walk with each other, -[6358.12 --> 6360.94] we will walk side by side, -[6361.04 --> 6364.38] we will walk with each other, -[6364.62 --> 6367.46] we will walk side by side, -[6367.56 --> 6370.96] and we'll guard each man's dignity -[6370.96 --> 6374.70] and save each man's pride. -[6376.02 --> 6379.00] And they'll know we are Christians -[6379.00 --> 6380.34] by our love, -[6380.60 --> 6382.28] by our love, -[6382.28 --> 6385.38] yes, they'll know we are Christians -[6385.38 --> 6387.82] by our love. -[6391.82 --> 6395.44] All praise to the Father, -[6395.66 --> 6398.48] from whom all things come, -[6398.86 --> 6402.24] and all praise to Christ Jesus, -[6402.24 --> 6404.94] His only Son, -[6404.94 --> 6408.04] and all praise to the Spirit, -[6408.04 --> 6412.04] who makes us one. -[6412.04 --> 6416.72] And they'll know we are Christians -[6416.72 --> 6418.10] by our love, -[6418.26 --> 6419.90] by our love, -[6419.90 --> 6422.98] yes, they'll know we are Christians -[6422.98 --> 6425.32] by our love. -[6425.32 --> 6437.14] As you go into this week, -[6437.14 --> 6439.74] go with the blessing of God. -[6440.20 --> 6441.00] Just a reminder, -[6441.20 --> 6442.02] before you do go, -[6442.80 --> 6445.02] find Casey and Allie and Madden -[6445.02 --> 6445.78] and encourage them -[6445.78 --> 6446.74] and congratulate them. -[6447.28 --> 6448.78] There will be a time of gathering -[6448.78 --> 6450.96] and refreshment afterwards available. -[6450.96 --> 6451.90] Please stick around. -[6452.70 --> 6454.98] Remember that Brenda is at the Connect booth -[6454.98 --> 6457.52] to talk to you about the food drive -[6457.52 --> 6458.16] that's upcoming -[6458.16 --> 6459.94] and the work that needs to be done -[6459.94 --> 6460.84] in the next couple weeks. -[6461.52 --> 6464.22] And in 15 minutes -[6464.22 --> 6465.94] after the last song, -[6466.32 --> 6467.28] so you can look at the clock -[6467.28 --> 6468.36] and then do the math from there, -[6468.44 --> 6470.50] 15 minutes after we sing our last song, -[6471.04 --> 6472.76] I'll lead a discussion group -[6472.76 --> 6475.26] about Synod in the multi-purpose room. -[6475.26 --> 6475.66] Amen. -[6475.66 --> 6477.84] Receive the blessing of God. -[6479.04 --> 6481.62] God, go before you to lead you. -[6482.02 --> 6484.38] God, go behind you to protect you. -[6484.66 --> 6486.52] God, go beneath you to support you. -[6486.62 --> 6489.06] And God, go beside you to befriend you. -[6489.54 --> 6491.24] Do not be afraid. -[6491.82 --> 6493.74] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[6493.86 --> 6495.24] Do not be afraid, -[6495.80 --> 6499.80] but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[6500.80 --> 6501.12] Amen. -[6501.12 --> 6501.26] Amen. -[6505.26 --> 6522.34] I know He rescued my soul. -[6522.90 --> 6525.54] His blood has covered my sin. -[6525.62 --> 6526.26] I believe. -[6529.06 --> 6530.06] I believe. -[6530.06 --> 6530.62] I believe. -[6530.62 --> 6537.36] My shame He's taken away. -[6537.86 --> 6541.00] My pain is sealed in His name. -[6541.08 --> 6542.22] I believe. -[6544.68 --> 6545.68] I believe. -[6549.76 --> 6552.22] I'll raise a banner. -[6553.96 --> 6556.98] My Lord has conquered the grave. -[6556.98 --> 6560.26] My Redeemer lives. -[6560.26 --> 6564.50] My Redeemer lives. -[6564.50 --> 6567.50] My Redeemer lives. -[6567.50 --> 6571.50] My Redeemer lives. -[6571.50 --> 6576.64] I know He rescued my soul. -[6576.64 --> 6579.96] His blood has covered my sin. -[6580.00 --> 6581.20] I believe. -[6583.58 --> 6584.88] I believe. -[6584.88 --> 6592.12] My shame He's taken away. -[6592.12 --> 6595.66] My pain is healed in His name. -[6595.66 --> 6597.12] I believe. -[6597.12 --> 6598.12] I believe. -[6598.12 --> 6600.12] I believe. -[6600.12 --> 6601.12] I believe. -[6601.12 --> 6607.20] I'll raise a banner. -[6607.22 --> 6611.96] My Lord has conquered the grave. -[6611.96 --> 6628.10] My Redeemer lives, My Redeemer lives, My Redeemer lives, My Redeemer lives. -[6628.10 --> 6635.54] You lift my burdens, I'll rise with you. -[6635.54 --> 6644.56] I'm dancing on this mountaintop to see your kingdom come. -[6644.56 --> 6663.92] My Redeemer lives, My Redeemer lives, My Redeemer lives, My Redeemer lives, -[6663.92 --> 6676.92] My Redeemer lives, My Redeemer lives, My Redeemer lives. -[6676.92 --> 6681.92] My Redeemer lives, My Redeemer lives. -[6681.92 --> 6686.92] My Redeemer lives, My Redeemer lives. -[6686.92 --> 6688.92] My Redeemer lives, My而不平 on your Ihren虚 Quizyounger. -[6688.92 --> 6691.92] My Redeemer lives, Mygrief, My Bh demeanor lives. -[6691.92 --> 6695.92] My sedan gives the Lord the day and the Lord has myいい. -[6695.92 --> 6700.92] My Redeemer lives, My Redeemer lives. -[6700.92 --> 6704.92] My Redeemer lives, My presidency Может enthcast 수가 imbealled, -[6704.92 --> 6706.92] My Redeemer lives with aoux button. -[6706.92 --> 6736.90] Thank you. -[6736.92 --> 6766.90] Thank you. -[6766.92 --> 6768.92] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, June 9, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, June 9, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d4de6dba12aea801f13b0feac28fc27745883972..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, June 9, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,128 +0,0 @@ -• Hallelujah and praise to Christ -• The love of Christ and freedom from death -• Jesus as a faithful God and source of joy -• Faith in Christ and the promise of salvation -• Praise and worship through music and song -• The story of a person's spiritual journey with Christ -• Assurance of eternal life and the blessings of salvation -• Discussion of the Holy Spirit and its enduring presence in the church -• Announcements for a new session called Campfire and a discussion on prayer -• Introduction to the Lord's Prayer and its significance -• Church family prayer led by an elder, Ken, with requests and announcements -• Memorial service announcement for Dennis DeGroote, a former teacher at Fraser Valley Christian and Surrey Christian -• Worship song and prayer with various hymns and Bible verses -• Prayers for students and teachers to finish the school year well -• Prayers for guidance and discernment for those seeking their next step in life -• Gratitude for communities, province, and nation's opportunities and privileges -• Request not to take these opportunities for granted -• Prayers for justice, peace, and an end to hunger and war around the world -• Celebrating the Agile family becoming Canadian citizens -• Prayers for those dealing with illness, including Kobe DeBoersap and Everly Vartstra -• Prayers for strength, peace, and healing for these individuals -• Gratitude for positive reports of healing in some cases -• Prayers for Rose Vita, Vera (struggling with shingles), Lena (with a recent fall) -• Requests for quick healing and relief for these individuals -• Prayers for others dealing with illness within the congregation or connections -• Encouragement to remain confident in God's goodness in times of struggle -• Prayers for those grieving loved ones who have passed away, including the DeGroote family -• Prayers for the church, its leadership, and ministry -• Requests for wisdom and guidance for synod delegates -• Prayers for Pastor Chris, Sean, and Sonia as they prepare for significant conversations and work -• Discussion of printing materials -• Reading from Romans 16:25-27 -• Reflection on ending the book of Romans -• The importance of the gospel throughout Romans -• Bookend of themes between the first and last chapters of Romans -• Comparison of the language used in verses 1-5 and 25-27 -• The gospel is grounded in the person and work of Jesus Christ -• The purpose of the gospel is to bring Gentiles (non-Jewish people) to obedience through faith -• Paul's letter includes a repeated message about surrounding the gospel with doxology (words of praise) -• The gospel transforms believers into worshipers -• God gives the gospel to start and sustain lives of glorifying gratitude -• Four questions will be explored: what is the gospel? -• Romans 1:16-17, emphasizing that the power of God is unto salvation -• The gospel as the power of God unto salvation, revealing the righteousness of God by faith -• Jesus as the righteousness of God, who lived the life we should have lived and died the death we deserved -• Christ's substitutionary atonement, paying the penalty for our sin and bearing God's wrath -• The resurrection of Jesus, making him victorious over sin and death -• Our call to be witnesses of Jesus' message, proclaiming his victory to the ends of the earth -• The Holy Spirit has been sent to help people live out the truth in the world -• The gospel is not just about loving God and loving others, but it's a more specific message that comes from Jesus Christ -• The order of things matters: the gospel must come first, followed by transformation and living out one's faith -• Regeneration (being born again) precedes faith; people can't believe in the gospel without already being spiritually transformed -• Believing in the gospel unites us with Christ. -• The gospel cannot be exchanged for human law or messaging -• The gospel is a message that gives eternal hope, not terrestrial hope or lesser glory -• God makes the gospel known through various means and ensures we receive it accurately -• Believing in Jesus as Lord and His resurrection from the dead is essential to salvation -• Calling on the name of the Lord requires hearing and believing in Him first -• Hearing about Jesus comes through someone preaching, which requires them being called by God -• This creates a cycle where people must be called, hear, believe, preach, and then call others -• The gospel is given by God through sending out preachers. -• Those who speak God's word have a unique calling to build up the church and equip its members for their faith expression. -• Everyone who believes is called to preach the gospel. -• Faith comes from hearing the message, which is heard through the word of Christ. -• Sometimes, people may misunderstand the message and think it's enough to simply live out the gospel rather than preaching it. -• The example of the speaker or others is not sufficient for salvation -• People are saved by believing in the message, not just following an example -• The life one lives confirms their faith and validates the truth of the gospel -• Salvation requires hearing and confessing Jesus as Lord, and believing He was raised from the dead -• Preaching the gospel requires using words, scriptures, and the Holy Spirit to transform lives -• God promises to use broken vessels like us to accomplish His purposes. -• The Word of God will accomplish its purpose and return to Him -• God gives the seed of the gospel, causes it to grow, and take root -• Believers proclaim His kingdom and are ambassadors of the gospel -• The message of the gospel sustains Christian lives through faith -• God is able to establish and strengthen believers in their faith through the gospel -• The gospel is not just a way into Christian faith but also the way of Christian faith -• Faith starts by believing in the gospel and is transformed by it -• Justification and sanctification come from believing the gospel -• Romans 6:5-7 emphasizes the union with Christ through death to sin, leading to new life -• The gospel transforms every aspect of life when applied to it -• Victory over sin and addictions comes from being united to Christ through the gospel. -• The importance of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ -• The distinction between experiential/emotional expression and spiritual/internal reality -• The unity of believers with Jesus, redefining their reality and changing everything about them -• The gospel as the means of being united with Jesus, resulting in God-glorifying gratitude and worship -• The magnitude of God's grace and its effects on our lives -• Worshiping through gratitude as a result of understanding God's goodness -• Connection between work, worship, and the gospel -• The good news of the gospel and its transformative power -• The importance of proclaiming and sharing this message with others -• Prayer for continued establishment in accordance with God's gospel and for faith and obedience. -• The significance of Jesus' gift of a meal to recognize Him and take in His truth -• The gospel being proclaimed through word, including at the table during communion -• Gathering as a body of believers to receive God's grace confirmed -• Prayer and thanksgiving to God for creation, covenant, and salvation through Jesus Christ -• The significance of Christ's death and resurrection -• Welcoming all to the Lord's table, regardless of faith or past experiences -• The process for coming forward to receive communion, including usher guidance -• Saying specific phrases over the elements (bread and juice) during communion -• Accommodating those unable to come forward due to mobility issues -• Meal service for a group -• Gluten-free bread options available -• Service to begin with a specific table -• Worship leaders and elders invited to participate -• Prayer requests can be made before or after the meal -• Blood of Christ shed for you is mentioned multiple times throughout the transcript. -• Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection -• Praise and worship songs -• Personal devotion and surrender ("I am not my own") -• Mindfulness of upcoming challenges and blessings -• Recognition of belonging to one's Savior, Jesus Christ -• Blessings from God are given to lead, protect, support, and befriend -• Announcement about refugee sponsorship committee's achievement of Agile family's citizenship -• Description of Agile family members and their progress -• Introduction of Talal Agile as a hearing-impaired individual sponsored by the committee -• News that Talal is getting married to someone in Morocco and will travel there on July 2 -• Plans to bring a person over to Canada -• Serving cake and explaining the process to others -• Discussing Noof's family history in Canada -• Mention of Noof's kids being in school and doing well -• Discussion of sports preferences (soccer vs. Canucks) -• Celebrating Canadian citizenship with O Canada song -• Appreciation for support from an organization -• Repetition of the Canadian national anthem lyrics "O Canada" -• Confusion or questioning about standing on guard for Canada -• Reference to being from West Africa -• Mention of being with fire and differing from something (though unclear) \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, June 9, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, June 9, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2d0360f3b32022ea6ea72c82580fcbe1aed1b4e1..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, June 9, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2352 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 9.00] Hallelujah! All I have is Christ! -[9.00 --> 19.00] Hallelujah! Jesus is my life! -[19.00 --> 28.00] Hallelujah! All I have is Christ! -[28.00 --> 39.00] Hallelujah! Jesus is my life! -[58.00 --> 60.00] Amen! -[60.00 --> 61.00] Amen! -[61.00 --> 63.00] Amen! -[63.00 --> 65.00] Amen! -[65.00 --> 67.00] Amen! -[67.00 --> 68.00] Amen! -[68.00 --> 72.00] Amen! -[72.00 --> 76.00] Amen! -[76.00 --> 77.00] Amen! -[77.00 --> 81.48] Make out the love of Christ for me. -[81.48 --> 86.20] And my death is made that I may be free. -[86.48 --> 90.92] Oh, come, Lord, ever in me reside. -[91.18 --> 95.62] When the tender seems to be my faithful God. -[95.86 --> 100.22] Joy of promises for me to do. -[100.50 --> 105.18] For the battle be fine and be so. -[107.00 --> 109.50] Rest in assurance. -[111.60 --> 114.50] Jesus is mine. -[114.50 --> 118.50] Oh, what a fortune. -[120.24 --> 122.50] The glory divine. -[125.06 --> 127.50] Hell of salvation. -[129.52 --> 131.86] Purchase of God. -[131.86 --> 132.86] Purchase of God. -[132.86 --> 136.36] For now, His spirit. -[136.36 --> 141.36] He washed me in blood. -[141.36 --> 147.74] In whom can He do the Savior's light? -[148.00 --> 152.32] Did He spell my thoughts in the blackest night? -[152.58 --> 156.86] Did He part His power to my soul redeem? -[156.86 --> 161.58] The wounds which all my sorrows fear? -[161.58 --> 166.12] In His transgressive, in His image we. -[166.36 --> 170.76] And by your power to His grace I'll be. -[171.00 --> 175.42] On the faith beside that prayer be prayed. -[175.42 --> 179.92] When we all leave Jesus' face to face. -[180.86 --> 180.92] His intention and mercy on His grant. -[180.92 --> 182.48] The魔法 to His strontops she sự. -[182.48 --> 186.22] And by his breath is in daily living. -[186.26 --> 187.58] Paul and region. -[187.58 --> 187.62] Jesus is our landed, Lord, ever in us faith. -[187.62 --> 189.12] He pursuit the love of His slaves. -[189.12 --> 191.06] This is what our faith is. -[191.06 --> 191.48] When you're left, he's running. -[191.48 --> 193.18] For now, the Lord is ourах. -[193.26 --> 193.88] Father, ever in ever in ever in His reign. -[195.72 --> 196.24] And He puts us together with this. -[196.24 --> 196.96] With His Son, He puts us to pay. -[197.38 --> 198.90] If His Son, He puts us to stand on the 95th. -[198.94 --> 201.38] Purchase of God. -[201.38 --> 227.66] This my story, this my song, born of spirit washed in blood. -[227.66 --> 236.48] This my story, this my song, in my Savior I belong. -[237.48 --> 246.00] This my story, this my song, born of spirit washed in blood. -[246.00 --> 254.78] This my story, this my song, in my Savior I belong. -[254.78 --> 263.78] This my story, this my song, born of spirit washed in blood. -[264.66 --> 272.78] This my story, this my song, in my Savior I belong. -[272.78 --> 282.66] Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine. -[282.66 --> 291.90] Oh, what a poor place, the poor we need to lie. -[292.44 --> 299.42] The care of salvation, the purchase of love. -[301.34 --> 307.66] Born of spirit washed in blood. -[307.66 --> 314.66] Born of spirit washed in blood. -[314.66 --> 316.66] Born of spirit washed in blood. -[316.66 --> 318.66] I bet you this is mine. -[318.66 --> 320.66] Good morning. -[320.66 --> 327.66] The special offering for today is for King's University. -[327.66 --> 332.66] For over 40 years, King's University has been committed to the highest level of excellence -[332.66 --> 333.66] in teaching and research. -[333.66 --> 340.66] Located in Edmonton, King's offers exceptional liberal arts education from a Christian perspective. -[340.66 --> 342.66] And serves students from across Canada and around the world. -[342.66 --> 343.66] Thank you. -[343.66 --> 344.66] Thank you. -[344.66 --> 351.66] This next song is new to us. -[351.66 --> 352.66] And it is a little peppy. -[352.66 --> 358.66] So feel free to listen along and join us if you get used to the melody. -[358.66 --> 365.66] Or just listen because it has a lot of truths about what we've been learning. -[365.66 --> 367.66] It comes directly from Romans 1. -[367.66 --> 370.66] So here is We Are Not Ashamed. -[370.66 --> 373.66] And it comes directly from Romans 1. -[373.66 --> 375.66] So here is We Are Not Ashamed. -[375.66 --> 377.66] And it comes directly from Romans 1. -[377.66 --> 380.66] And it comes directly from Romans 1. -[380.66 --> 387.66] So here is We Are Not Ashamed. -[387.66 --> 390.66] We Are Not Ashamed. -[390.66 --> 409.66] The news of Jesus Christ. -[409.66 --> 410.66] The crucified. -[410.66 --> 419.66] The risen raining at the Father's sky. -[419.66 --> 425.66] His foolishness to those who cannot see. -[425.66 --> 432.66] Blinded by the hearts they can't believe. -[432.66 --> 433.66] The risen rain. -[433.66 --> 435.66] So let the church arise. -[435.66 --> 439.66] Let the anthem ring. -[439.66 --> 443.66] To all the world's pastors. -[443.66 --> 447.66] Christ the risen King. -[447.66 --> 451.66] The Son of the King. -[451.66 --> 454.66] The holy we shall sing. -[454.66 --> 460.66] The home of all the world is Christ the risen King. -[460.66 --> 463.66] For we, we are not ashamed. -[463.66 --> 473.66] For the gospel is the power of Christ to stay. -[473.66 --> 479.66] Yes, we, we are not ashamed. -[479.66 --> 480.66] To all Eve bookings. -[480.66 --> 489.66] We are not ashamed. -[489.66 --> 508.66] For us, you live. -[508.66 --> 515.74] The Holy Spirit in their every starving name -[515.74 --> 521.72] The Mary Gage and Gospel will endure -[521.72 --> 528.50] The Spirit's within the church forevermore -[528.50 --> 533.50] So let the church arise -[533.50 --> 536.64] Let the end of the day -[536.64 --> 539.44] To all the world that's heard -[539.44 --> 543.12] The Christ the risen King -[543.12 --> 546.36] The song of every king -[546.36 --> 549.38] The holy we shall sing -[549.38 --> 552.42] The home of all the world -[552.42 --> 556.12] The Christ the risen King -[556.12 --> 560.94] Oh, we, we are not ashamed -[560.94 --> 564.74] Oh, we're not ashamed -[564.74 --> 569.42] We are not afraid to stay -[569.42 --> 574.46] Yes, we, we are not ashamed -[574.46 --> 582.22] Oh, we have no other Savior to sustain -[582.22 --> 587.46] Oh, we, we are not ashamed -[587.46 --> 591.26] Oh, we have no other Savior to sustain -[591.26 --> 599.14] Yes, we, we are not ashamed -[599.14 --> 603.10] Oh, we have no other Savior to sustain -[603.10 --> 618.74] Oh, we are not ashamed -[618.74 --> 627.26] Good morning, everybody. -[627.54 --> 631.60] Can I have all the preschoolers up to grade four come up to the front? -[631.92 --> 638.24] And while they're coming up to the front, we have a couple weeks left in our regular season, -[638.24 --> 642.12] and we are starting to look for people for our summer season. -[642.12 --> 650.18] So if anybody's interested in teaching the preschoolers, we have a link on our bulletin that you can just sign in on, -[650.42 --> 653.42] or you can come talk to me if you have any other questions. -[654.46 --> 656.06] Good morning, guys. How are you? -[656.94 --> 662.30] So today we're going to start a new session, and it's called Campfire. -[662.76 --> 666.18] So when we sit around a campfire, what kind of things do we do? -[667.74 --> 668.12] Okay. -[669.24 --> 670.24] You tell stories? -[670.24 --> 672.52] What else do we do around a campfire? -[676.18 --> 677.32] Roast marshmallows. -[677.50 --> 678.36] What else do we do? -[680.16 --> 683.58] Around a campfire, maybe, but not too close. -[684.56 --> 685.70] What else do we do? -[685.92 --> 687.48] We hang out with our family. -[687.66 --> 691.38] We hang out with friends, and we have discussions. -[692.14 --> 692.84] Pardon me, Malachi? -[693.54 --> 695.72] We sit around the campfire and have discussions. -[695.72 --> 703.22] So basically, in the next couple of weeks until this, until summertime, is we are going to talk about different topics. -[703.80 --> 706.10] So today, we are going to talk about prayer. -[706.56 --> 714.56] So we are going to learn, we're going to learn about the story that we, that Jesus taught his disciples how to pray, -[714.66 --> 716.70] and we're going to talk about the Lord's Prayer. -[716.70 --> 718.30] So can everybody stand up? -[722.62 --> 725.06] And look at your parents and the congregation. -[725.06 --> 729.62] And one, two, three, the Lord be with you. -[729.82 --> 731.50] And also with you. -[731.50 --> 756.50] Thank you. -[756.50 --> 757.50] Good morning. -[757.50 --> 758.50] My name is Ken. -[758.50 --> 763.50] I'm an elder here at Emanuel, and I will be leading us in our church family prayer. -[763.50 --> 770.50] So all of you should have access to the e-bulletin, and every week we see numerous items for prayer -[770.50 --> 774.80] requests, and I encourage each of us to look at those not only on Sunday, but just throughout -[774.80 --> 778.18] the week and keep each other upheld in prayer. -[778.18 --> 783.50] In addition to the items in the bulletin right now, there's one other situation or announcement -[783.50 --> 789.44] I have, and many of you would know, Dennis DeGroote, who was a teacher at Fraser Valley -[789.44 --> 794.64] Christian and Surrey Christian, and he passed away on Friday. -[794.64 --> 801.26] And so there's going to be a service, a memorial for him on Friday, this coming Friday at 2 -[801.26 --> 804.18] p.m. at Fleetwood CRC. -[804.18 --> 808.56] So let's all uphold the DeGroote family in our prayers as well. -[808.56 --> 810.12] Let's bow our heads together. -[810.12 --> 819.50] Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, all your works shall praise your name in earth and sky -[819.50 --> 821.12] and sea. -[821.12 --> 825.70] What a blessing it is to worship you this morning and to praise your holy name. -[825.70 --> 831.60] In our singing songs of praise, in the teaching and hearing of your word, in fellowship, in -[831.60 --> 835.96] breaking bread, and in prayer, we praise you, Lord our God. -[835.96 --> 840.04] We cry out, hallelujah, all we have is Christ. -[840.04 --> 843.14] Hallelujah, Jesus is our life. -[843.14 --> 849.66] Lord, when we examine our lives, we see blessings beyond what we can count, and your grace beyond -[849.66 --> 851.70] what we can measure. -[851.70 --> 855.64] We can give you all the glory and praise to you alone. -[855.64 --> 860.54] But still, we find ourselves carrying burdens that make us tired and weary. -[860.54 --> 864.74] Lord, we lift up our burdens to you, knowing that you are the creator of the ends of the -[864.74 --> 865.92] earth. -[865.92 --> 871.82] You will not grow tired or weary, and your understanding is beyond our comprehension. -[871.82 --> 876.42] Lord, you give us strength to the weary and increase the power of the weak. -[876.42 --> 881.60] This morning we lift up our praise and concerns to you, knowing that those who hope in the Lord, -[881.60 --> 885.54] will renew their strength and soar on wings like eagles. -[885.54 --> 889.96] We will run and not grow weary, walk and not be faint. -[889.96 --> 893.58] We thank you, Lord, for the opportunities and blessings you have provided throughout this -[893.58 --> 896.92] school year to students and to their teachers. -[896.92 --> 901.48] We ask you for strength to enable them to finish this school year well. -[901.48 --> 905.48] We pray, Lord, that you provide discernment and guidance for all who are seeking out what -[905.48 --> 910.80] to do in the next chapter of their lives after the school year ends. -[910.80 --> 914.74] We thank you for our communities, this beautiful province, and our nation. -[914.74 --> 918.04] Lord, we have so many opportunities and privileges. -[918.04 --> 920.78] Help us not take them for granted. -[920.78 --> 927.18] We pray for your world and many places that are suffering in a time of injustice, hunger, -[927.18 --> 928.66] and war. -[928.66 --> 933.20] Help us not lose sight of the ministry and mission you have for your church in this time -[933.20 --> 936.60] and place and throughout the world. -[936.60 --> 941.48] Lord, we celebrate with the Agile family as they have become Canadian citizens. -[941.48 --> 946.10] As we have walked this process with them over the years, we see your faithfulness and guidance -[946.10 --> 950.14] and praise you for all you have done in this. -[950.14 --> 953.52] We pray, Lord, for those who are dealing with burdens of illness. -[953.52 --> 959.32] Lord, you sustain them on their sick bed and restore them from their beds of illness. -[959.32 --> 964.70] We lift up Kobe DeBoersap as she continues radiation and chemo treatment after bone marrow and stem -[964.70 --> 966.86] cell transplants. -[966.86 --> 970.40] Lord, we pray for strength and peace for Kobe and her family. -[970.40 --> 976.24] Grant Kobe a return to strength and health and recovery from this leukemia. -[976.24 --> 981.72] We pray, Lord, for Everly Vartstra and ask for complete healing for her melanoma. -[981.72 --> 988.32] Please grant Stephen and Karen your peace and patience in these times of testing and waiting. -[988.32 --> 993.22] We ask for wisdom for the medical teams that provide treatment and care to Everly. -[993.22 --> 997.86] We're grateful, Lord, to hear positive reports this week and pray for continued healing along -[997.86 --> 1002.14] this long road to full healing for Everly. -[1002.14 --> 1007.42] We also pray for Rose Vita as she faces health challenges and other struggles. -[1007.42 --> 1011.04] Lord, give her your healing touch and renew her strength. -[1011.04 --> 1015.46] We pray for Judy Dykstra's friend, Vera, who has been struggling with shingles for a long -[1015.46 --> 1016.98] time. -[1016.98 --> 1020.90] Please grant her healing and relief and help her get the support that she needs in this -[1020.90 --> 1022.62] time. -[1022.62 --> 1027.22] We also lift up Lena who had a fall and required stitches this week, Lord, and we ask for quick -[1027.22 --> 1029.22] healing for her as well. -[1029.22 --> 1034.18] Lord, we pray for others who are dealing with illness in our congregation or in our circles -[1034.18 --> 1038.12] of connections, many that we know of and some that we do not. -[1038.12 --> 1042.64] Lord, we pray that you'd help us remain confident that we will see the goodness of the Lord in -[1042.64 --> 1044.40] the land of the living. -[1044.40 --> 1049.50] Help us be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord in all of these things. -[1049.50 --> 1054.74] Lord, we also lift up those who are grieving loved ones who have passed away. -[1054.74 --> 1059.44] We thank especially of the DeGroote family as they're in a time of mourning and pray your -[1059.44 --> 1063.64] blessing on the memorial service this upcoming Friday. -[1063.64 --> 1070.38] Lord, we lift up our church, this church family here and our ministry here at Emanuel and throughout -[1070.38 --> 1071.74] our region and denomination. -[1072.46 --> 1077.54] We pray for the work of our church council and staff, our classes and synod. -[1078.06 --> 1082.72] Lord, please be near to each of the workers that you have put in place to lead. -[1082.72 --> 1089.30] As synod begins later this week, we pray for all the delegates and we pray for Pastor Chris -[1089.30 --> 1093.90] and Sean from New Life and Sonia from Willoughby as they are leaving for synod this week. -[1094.54 --> 1099.18] And as they prepare for some significant and important conversations and work to be done. -[1100.04 --> 1105.64] Holy Spirit, we ask that you work in the hearts and minds of the delegates to lead them. -[1106.16 --> 1112.08] Help them correctly handle the word of truth and boldly lead your church to do likewise. -[1112.72 --> 1117.84] Lord, this morning as we hear your word and share in the Lord's Supper around the table, -[1118.24 --> 1122.54] we pray that you will speak into our hearts and lives in old and new ways alike. -[1123.16 --> 1123.56] Hallelujah. -[1124.14 --> 1125.66] All we have is Christ. -[1126.30 --> 1126.70] Hallelujah. -[1127.24 --> 1128.48] Jesus is our life. -[1128.98 --> 1129.20] Amen. -[1129.20 --> 1129.30] Amen. -[1142.72 --> 1158.24] This morning we are going to close out our series in the book of Romans. -[1158.24 --> 1165.60] If you are a guest with us this morning, we have been living in the book of Romans for the last year and a half. -[1165.60 --> 1167.16] 18 months. -[1168.00 --> 1175.70] 39 sermons including today and lots of conversations and this past year starting in January. -[1176.18 --> 1177.40] Podcasts and the like. -[1178.70 --> 1181.28] And so I want to say first of all, thank you. -[1181.80 --> 1184.94] Thank you for your encouragement and your feedback and for your engagement. -[1184.94 --> 1193.40] Thank you for pressing into the challenges and for wrestling and for allowing us to go on this road. -[1193.76 --> 1201.22] To Josh and Kevin as well, thank you for your participation in this and for taking this challenge up with me. -[1201.76 --> 1206.86] I have been truly blessed and I know at least three of you have been as well. -[1207.60 --> 1210.84] And so hopefully it's more, but thank you for your gracious feedback. -[1210.84 --> 1220.38] Someone asked me a little while ago if we could provide an overview of the series with the texts and with the big idea from each sermon. -[1220.98 --> 1223.20] And so we have a few of these available. -[1223.42 --> 1227.06] They're cards that you can just slip in your Bible, maybe at the beginning of Romans. -[1227.50 --> 1231.52] And you can go and hold it alongside of what you have there. -[1231.60 --> 1234.20] And so we printed 40 of these. -[1234.88 --> 1237.00] I'm not sure we will need all 40. -[1237.00 --> 1241.78] But if we happen to run out, just touch base with me and I'll get the office to print off some more. -[1242.18 --> 1244.38] They're at the Connect booth later. -[1245.88 --> 1250.56] We're going to end today with just three verses. -[1250.84 --> 1256.28] And so we're going to read together from Romans 16, 25 through 27. -[1256.54 --> 1259.60] If you have a Bible, of course, I encourage you to open that up. -[1259.68 --> 1260.42] Keep that in front of you. -[1260.52 --> 1262.06] There are Bibles available at the back. -[1262.14 --> 1265.78] You can also get it on your phone or whatever device you have there. -[1265.78 --> 1268.36] The first time through, at least, it should be over my shoulder. -[1268.92 --> 1269.64] Let's read together. -[1272.16 --> 1277.54] Now to him who is able to establish you in accordance with my gospel, -[1277.94 --> 1280.80] the message I proclaim about Jesus Christ, -[1280.80 --> 1285.32] in keeping with the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past, -[1285.60 --> 1291.50] but now revealed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God, -[1291.64 --> 1295.34] so that all the Gentiles might come to the obedience that comes from faith, -[1295.34 --> 1301.62] to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ. -[1302.38 --> 1302.76] Amen. -[1304.30 --> 1305.54] This is the word of the Lord. -[1310.24 --> 1313.60] So this morning, as our sort of weigh in, -[1313.60 --> 1314.72] I want to ask the question, -[1315.12 --> 1320.04] how would you end perhaps the greatest letter ever written? -[1320.04 --> 1323.72] Now throughout this series on Romans, -[1324.18 --> 1329.02] we've been talking about and in hearing about the impact of this letter, -[1329.12 --> 1330.34] this book of the Bible. -[1331.12 --> 1333.34] Pastor Kevin, in one of his messages, -[1333.88 --> 1337.28] shared how Bible scholars say that -[1337.28 --> 1341.82] in this letter is the most important paragraph ever written, -[1342.16 --> 1343.24] is how Kevin put it. -[1343.24 --> 1349.08] A verse from this letter changed the course of church history. -[1349.42 --> 1350.68] Romans 1 verse 17. -[1350.80 --> 1351.82] We'll see that in a little bit. -[1352.24 --> 1354.36] Three chapters from this letter -[1354.36 --> 1357.46] have shaped conversations in biblical theology -[1357.46 --> 1359.58] for literally millennia. -[1360.60 --> 1362.02] That's chapters 9 through 11. -[1363.28 --> 1363.88] Personally, -[1364.22 --> 1366.18] my favorite chapter in the whole Bible -[1366.18 --> 1367.52] is in the book of Romans. -[1368.50 --> 1370.10] Maybe yours is too, -[1370.10 --> 1371.92] because a lot of people love Romans 8. -[1374.18 --> 1374.80] And so, -[1375.54 --> 1376.96] Tony Merida asks, -[1377.36 --> 1381.56] how do you end the greatest letter ever written? -[1383.04 --> 1385.08] And the answer that I hope we'll see -[1385.08 --> 1388.56] is the same way you started it. -[1389.72 --> 1391.38] The same way you started it. -[1391.44 --> 1391.52] Right? -[1391.58 --> 1392.48] From the beginning, -[1393.14 --> 1394.60] the letter to the Romans -[1394.60 --> 1397.32] has been about one thing. -[1398.58 --> 1401.52] The gospel of Jesus Christ. -[1402.74 --> 1402.90] Right? -[1402.94 --> 1404.82] From the deep, unsettling truth -[1404.82 --> 1406.64] of our need for the gospel -[1406.64 --> 1407.56] to the reality -[1407.56 --> 1408.76] of how the gospel -[1408.76 --> 1411.00] works out in the order of salvation -[1411.00 --> 1411.84] to the truth -[1411.84 --> 1413.10] of how the gospel continues -[1413.10 --> 1414.16] to work itself out -[1414.16 --> 1415.26] in the lives of those -[1415.26 --> 1416.76] who are transformed by it -[1416.76 --> 1417.34] and the truth -[1417.34 --> 1418.46] of how the gospel -[1418.46 --> 1420.76] shapes the community of people -[1420.76 --> 1422.58] who are made by it. -[1423.30 --> 1423.44] Right? -[1423.44 --> 1425.16] These themes are found -[1425.16 --> 1427.14] throughout the entire letter. -[1427.26 --> 1428.08] And what we have said -[1428.08 --> 1429.06] over and over -[1429.06 --> 1429.94] is that Romans -[1429.94 --> 1431.74] from first to last -[1431.74 --> 1434.10] has been about the gospel. -[1435.86 --> 1437.36] You end the letter -[1437.36 --> 1439.04] the same way you started. -[1439.90 --> 1440.38] In fact, -[1440.50 --> 1441.48] the language of -[1441.48 --> 1444.20] verses 25 through 27 -[1444.20 --> 1446.08] echo the language -[1446.08 --> 1449.30] of the first five verses -[1449.30 --> 1450.40] of the book. -[1450.40 --> 1453.58] There's a nice bookend -[1453.58 --> 1454.70] to the way Paul -[1454.70 --> 1456.56] concludes this letter. -[1457.22 --> 1458.44] Did we have this image, Linda? -[1461.44 --> 1463.12] So, you can see -[1463.12 --> 1465.80] maybe -[1465.80 --> 1477.26] the first five books -[1477.26 --> 1478.02] of the Bible -[1478.02 --> 1478.88] have themes -[1478.88 --> 1479.88] that correspond -[1479.88 --> 1480.74] Linda can get it up -[1480.74 --> 1481.44] as she gets it -[1481.44 --> 1483.84] to these ones here. -[1485.30 --> 1485.54] Right? -[1485.58 --> 1486.88] In the first five verses -[1486.88 --> 1488.90] and in these last three verses -[1488.90 --> 1490.74] Paul talks about the gospel. -[1490.88 --> 1492.26] He talks about being set apart -[1492.26 --> 1493.84] for the gospel. -[1493.84 --> 1495.84] Right? -[1495.88 --> 1497.48] He grounds this gospel -[1497.48 --> 1499.28] in the person -[1499.28 --> 1500.86] and work of Jesus Christ. -[1501.84 --> 1502.72] And he shows -[1502.72 --> 1504.02] how this gospel -[1504.02 --> 1505.38] has been God's plan -[1505.38 --> 1506.40] all along -[1506.40 --> 1507.66] revealed in the writings -[1507.66 --> 1508.30] of the prophets -[1508.30 --> 1509.38] and in the writings -[1509.38 --> 1510.20] of Holy Scripture. -[1511.30 --> 1512.18] The purpose -[1512.18 --> 1513.72] has been -[1513.72 --> 1514.52] always -[1514.52 --> 1515.66] so that -[1515.66 --> 1516.62] the Gentiles -[1516.62 --> 1517.32] that is people -[1517.32 --> 1518.28] who are not Jewish -[1518.28 --> 1519.58] you and me -[1519.58 --> 1521.18] might come to -[1521.18 --> 1522.18] obedience -[1522.18 --> 1523.06] that comes -[1523.06 --> 1524.22] from faith. -[1525.08 --> 1525.38] In fact, -[1525.46 --> 1525.88] if you hold -[1525.88 --> 1526.64] these two things -[1526.64 --> 1527.68] side by each -[1527.68 --> 1529.52] it's pretty masterful -[1529.52 --> 1530.30] letter writing -[1530.30 --> 1531.64] that's going on here. -[1533.28 --> 1533.90] But -[1533.90 --> 1535.70] what is -[1535.70 --> 1536.70] specifically -[1536.70 --> 1538.14] unique -[1538.14 --> 1539.46] about -[1539.46 --> 1540.36] verses 25 -[1540.36 --> 1541.20] through 27 -[1541.20 --> 1542.70] is how Paul -[1542.70 --> 1543.96] then surrounds -[1543.96 --> 1544.62] this -[1544.62 --> 1545.52] repeated -[1545.52 --> 1546.72] message. -[1547.92 --> 1548.32] Right? -[1548.32 --> 1550.00] this call -[1550.00 --> 1551.20] is to -[1551.20 --> 1551.96] surround -[1551.96 --> 1553.02] the gospel -[1553.02 --> 1554.86] with doxology -[1554.86 --> 1556.20] with words -[1556.20 --> 1557.04] of praise -[1557.04 --> 1558.22] and of blessing. -[1559.04 --> 1559.12] Right? -[1559.12 --> 1559.98] Notice how he starts -[1559.98 --> 1560.70] our text. -[1560.82 --> 1561.08] He says -[1561.08 --> 1562.18] now to him -[1562.18 --> 1562.92] who is able -[1562.92 --> 1564.10] to establish you -[1564.10 --> 1564.72] in accordance -[1564.72 --> 1566.16] with my gospel. -[1566.26 --> 1567.10] And then he continues -[1567.10 --> 1568.36] as we have seen -[1568.36 --> 1569.52] repeating themes -[1569.52 --> 1570.28] from the first -[1570.28 --> 1571.34] five verses -[1571.34 --> 1572.08] of the letter -[1572.08 --> 1573.50] and then he comes -[1573.50 --> 1574.38] back to -[1574.38 --> 1575.08] this idea -[1575.08 --> 1576.00] of doxology. -[1576.56 --> 1576.68] Right? -[1577.28 --> 1578.46] Now to him -[1578.46 --> 1579.42] the wise -[1579.42 --> 1580.02] God -[1580.02 --> 1580.74] be glory -[1580.74 --> 1581.42] forever -[1581.42 --> 1582.32] through Jesus -[1582.32 --> 1582.92] Christ. -[1583.70 --> 1584.04] Amen. -[1585.12 --> 1585.88] And this is -[1585.88 --> 1586.86] the same idea -[1586.86 --> 1587.68] that we have seen -[1587.68 --> 1588.52] over and over -[1588.52 --> 1589.40] and over again -[1589.40 --> 1590.28] in the letter -[1590.28 --> 1590.84] to the Romans -[1590.84 --> 1591.66] that the gospel -[1591.66 --> 1593.26] transforms us -[1593.26 --> 1593.96] into -[1593.96 --> 1595.12] worshipers. -[1596.92 --> 1597.96] The gospel -[1597.96 --> 1599.20] transforms us -[1599.20 --> 1600.08] into worshipers -[1600.08 --> 1601.66] and that's -[1601.66 --> 1602.72] actually the theme -[1602.72 --> 1603.74] for this morning. -[1604.80 --> 1604.90] Right? -[1605.00 --> 1606.16] God gives the gospel -[1606.16 --> 1607.30] to start -[1607.30 --> 1608.48] and sustain -[1608.48 --> 1609.66] our lives -[1609.66 --> 1610.50] of God -[1610.50 --> 1611.54] glorifying -[1611.54 --> 1612.40] gratitude. -[1614.24 --> 1615.10] Now to help -[1615.10 --> 1615.82] make this idea -[1615.82 --> 1616.90] make sense to us -[1616.90 --> 1617.94] coming out of this text -[1617.94 --> 1619.24] I'll frame -[1619.24 --> 1619.86] what's left -[1619.86 --> 1620.34] of our time -[1620.34 --> 1620.76] this morning -[1620.76 --> 1621.76] around four -[1621.76 --> 1623.14] questions. -[1624.16 --> 1624.82] And the first -[1624.82 --> 1625.50] question -[1625.50 --> 1627.18] has to be -[1627.18 --> 1628.66] what is the gospel? -[1629.76 --> 1629.90] Right? -[1629.90 --> 1630.82] What is the gospel? -[1631.58 --> 1632.06] Earlier -[1632.06 --> 1633.52] we sang a song -[1633.52 --> 1634.68] We Are Not Ashamed -[1634.68 --> 1635.66] and that idea -[1635.66 --> 1636.36] comes from -[1636.36 --> 1637.04] Romans 1 -[1637.04 --> 1638.26] verse 16 -[1638.26 --> 1638.72] it says -[1638.72 --> 1639.82] I'm not ashamed -[1639.82 --> 1640.56] of the gospel -[1640.56 --> 1641.80] for it is the power -[1641.80 --> 1642.56] of God -[1642.56 --> 1643.48] unto salvation. -[1644.36 --> 1644.92] The power -[1644.92 --> 1645.34] of God -[1645.34 --> 1646.06] unto salvation -[1646.06 --> 1647.10] is the gospel. -[1647.22 --> 1647.62] The gospel -[1647.62 --> 1648.40] is the power -[1648.40 --> 1648.80] of God -[1648.80 --> 1649.84] unto salvation. -[1650.02 --> 1650.32] And then in -[1650.32 --> 1651.58] Romans 17 -[1651.58 --> 1653.06] he continues -[1653.06 --> 1654.08] in the gospel -[1654.08 --> 1654.90] the righteousness -[1654.90 --> 1655.58] of God -[1655.58 --> 1656.22] is revealed -[1656.22 --> 1657.16] a righteousness -[1657.16 --> 1658.44] that is by faith -[1658.44 --> 1659.16] from first -[1659.16 --> 1660.00] to last -[1660.00 --> 1661.92] just as it is written -[1661.92 --> 1662.84] the righteous -[1662.84 --> 1663.66] will live -[1663.66 --> 1664.94] by faith. -[1665.96 --> 1666.64] Jesus -[1666.64 --> 1668.12] is -[1668.12 --> 1669.00] the righteousness -[1669.00 --> 1670.30] of God. -[1670.80 --> 1671.58] The truth -[1671.58 --> 1672.54] is that in Adam -[1672.54 --> 1673.50] all sin -[1673.50 --> 1674.56] and death -[1674.56 --> 1675.50] has now entered -[1675.50 --> 1676.34] the world -[1676.34 --> 1677.16] through sin -[1677.16 --> 1678.64] and in Christ -[1678.64 --> 1680.04] the gospel reality -[1680.04 --> 1681.02] is that all -[1681.02 --> 1682.28] are made alive -[1682.28 --> 1683.02] that life -[1683.02 --> 1683.72] is granted -[1683.72 --> 1684.80] by him. -[1684.80 --> 1686.40] This is the gospel -[1686.40 --> 1687.04] in its most -[1687.04 --> 1687.78] fundamental -[1687.78 --> 1689.44] core form. -[1690.36 --> 1691.22] The idea -[1691.22 --> 1691.68] that I am -[1691.68 --> 1692.34] more sinful -[1692.34 --> 1693.00] than I would -[1693.00 --> 1694.26] ever dare -[1694.26 --> 1694.98] admit -[1694.98 --> 1696.72] and yet -[1696.72 --> 1698.14] I am more -[1698.14 --> 1698.84] loved -[1698.84 --> 1699.34] than I could -[1699.34 --> 1700.66] ever imagine -[1700.66 --> 1701.62] possible. -[1702.80 --> 1703.20] And out -[1703.20 --> 1704.44] of this love -[1704.44 --> 1704.86] God -[1704.86 --> 1705.90] came into -[1705.90 --> 1706.42] the world -[1706.42 --> 1707.50] in Jesus Christ -[1707.50 --> 1708.18] and he lived -[1708.18 --> 1708.70] the life -[1708.70 --> 1709.58] I should have -[1709.58 --> 1709.96] lived. -[1712.10 --> 1712.90] In living -[1712.90 --> 1713.40] the life -[1713.40 --> 1713.98] I should have -[1713.98 --> 1714.58] lived even -[1714.58 --> 1715.20] though he -[1715.20 --> 1716.06] was innocent -[1716.06 --> 1716.96] and perfect -[1716.96 --> 1717.58] even though -[1717.58 --> 1718.06] he kept -[1718.06 --> 1718.46] all the -[1718.46 --> 1718.98] requirements -[1718.98 --> 1720.08] of the law -[1720.08 --> 1721.10] even though -[1721.10 --> 1721.52] he was -[1721.52 --> 1721.86] innocent -[1721.86 --> 1722.56] this same -[1722.56 --> 1723.16] Jesus -[1723.16 --> 1724.10] died the -[1724.10 --> 1724.46] death -[1724.46 --> 1725.14] that I -[1725.14 --> 1725.66] deserved. -[1726.84 --> 1727.38] And that in -[1727.38 --> 1727.82] dying the -[1727.82 --> 1728.34] death that I -[1728.34 --> 1728.92] deserved for -[1728.92 --> 1729.48] sin he -[1729.48 --> 1730.06] paid the -[1730.06 --> 1730.34] penalty. -[1730.52 --> 1730.98] He bore -[1730.98 --> 1731.74] the wrath -[1731.74 --> 1732.20] of God -[1732.20 --> 1732.62] for sin -[1732.62 --> 1732.98] so that -[1732.98 --> 1733.74] I might -[1733.74 --> 1734.20] not have -[1734.20 --> 1734.40] to. -[1735.16 --> 1735.76] That's the -[1735.76 --> 1736.22] gospel. -[1737.42 --> 1738.08] That he -[1738.08 --> 1738.52] lived the -[1738.52 --> 1738.86] life I -[1738.86 --> 1739.18] should have -[1739.18 --> 1739.54] lived and -[1739.54 --> 1739.96] died the -[1739.96 --> 1740.32] death that -[1740.32 --> 1740.78] I deserved -[1740.78 --> 1741.02] and that -[1741.02 --> 1741.64] three days -[1741.64 --> 1742.40] later he -[1742.40 --> 1743.02] was raised -[1743.02 --> 1743.56] again. -[1743.98 --> 1744.66] victorious -[1744.66 --> 1745.50] over sin -[1745.50 --> 1746.02] and death -[1746.02 --> 1746.56] and now -[1746.56 --> 1747.04] he has -[1747.04 --> 1747.74] called us -[1747.74 --> 1748.22] to be -[1748.22 --> 1748.68] his -[1748.68 --> 1749.08] witnesses -[1749.08 --> 1749.82] in Judea -[1749.82 --> 1750.50] and Samaria -[1750.50 --> 1751.00] and to the -[1751.00 --> 1751.44] ends of the -[1751.44 --> 1751.62] earth. -[1751.92 --> 1752.38] He has -[1752.38 --> 1753.02] ascended to -[1753.02 --> 1753.44] the right -[1753.44 --> 1754.22] hand of -[1754.22 --> 1754.60] God the -[1754.60 --> 1754.86] Father -[1754.86 --> 1755.26] and from -[1755.26 --> 1755.64] there -[1755.64 --> 1756.28] together -[1756.28 --> 1756.66] they have -[1756.66 --> 1757.20] sent the -[1757.20 --> 1757.96] Holy Spirit -[1757.96 --> 1758.54] so that -[1758.54 --> 1759.14] we might -[1759.14 --> 1760.04] live this -[1760.04 --> 1761.36] truth out -[1761.36 --> 1761.80] in the -[1761.80 --> 1762.10] world. -[1764.24 --> 1764.96] That's the -[1764.96 --> 1765.44] gospel. -[1767.18 --> 1767.96] And here's -[1767.96 --> 1768.36] what I want -[1768.36 --> 1768.76] us to make -[1768.76 --> 1769.44] sure we hear -[1769.44 --> 1769.98] coming out -[1769.98 --> 1770.70] of this -[1770.70 --> 1771.52] letter to -[1771.52 --> 1771.68] the -[1771.68 --> 1772.00] Romans. -[1773.58 --> 1774.52] The gospel -[1774.52 --> 1775.48] is not -[1775.48 --> 1776.90] that you -[1776.90 --> 1778.36] love God -[1778.36 --> 1778.74] and love -[1778.74 --> 1779.10] your neighbor. -[1780.74 --> 1781.58] The gospel -[1781.58 --> 1782.36] is not -[1782.36 --> 1783.02] that you -[1783.02 --> 1783.50] try to be -[1783.50 --> 1783.86] good to -[1783.86 --> 1784.34] everyone. -[1785.52 --> 1786.40] The gospel -[1786.40 --> 1787.06] isn't that -[1787.06 --> 1787.38] you love -[1787.38 --> 1787.96] your enemies -[1787.96 --> 1789.28] and the -[1789.28 --> 1789.98] gospel isn't -[1789.98 --> 1790.30] that you're -[1790.30 --> 1790.84] created in -[1790.84 --> 1791.18] the image -[1791.18 --> 1791.58] of God -[1791.58 --> 1792.08] and loved -[1792.08 --> 1792.94] just how -[1792.94 --> 1793.40] you are -[1793.40 --> 1794.30] and remain -[1794.30 --> 1794.60] there. -[1795.18 --> 1796.12] Even though -[1796.12 --> 1796.80] every one -[1796.80 --> 1797.14] of those -[1797.14 --> 1797.60] things is -[1797.60 --> 1798.22] true except -[1798.22 --> 1798.56] for the -[1798.56 --> 1798.88] remaining -[1798.88 --> 1799.24] there a -[1799.24 --> 1799.42] bit. -[1801.28 --> 1802.00] In some -[1802.00 --> 1802.50] way every -[1802.50 --> 1802.84] one of -[1802.84 --> 1803.36] those things -[1803.36 --> 1803.74] is a -[1803.74 --> 1804.56] calling and -[1804.56 --> 1805.06] a reality -[1805.06 --> 1805.40] that we're -[1805.40 --> 1805.92] supposed to -[1805.92 --> 1806.52] live out -[1806.52 --> 1807.50] after the -[1807.50 --> 1808.32] gospel has -[1808.32 --> 1808.68] been made -[1808.68 --> 1809.28] effective in -[1809.28 --> 1809.64] our lives. -[1809.72 --> 1810.22] The order -[1810.22 --> 1811.08] matters. -[1812.50 --> 1813.44] The gospel -[1813.44 --> 1814.60] as the -[1814.60 --> 1815.14] gospel, -[1815.64 --> 1816.10] the good -[1816.10 --> 1816.74] news of -[1816.74 --> 1817.88] Jesus Christ -[1817.88 --> 1819.32] matters here. -[1820.02 --> 1820.32] And too -[1820.32 --> 1821.14] many times -[1821.14 --> 1821.72] too many -[1821.72 --> 1822.16] people, -[1822.32 --> 1822.68] Christian -[1822.68 --> 1823.36] people, -[1823.48 --> 1823.98] well-meaning -[1823.98 --> 1824.62] people, -[1824.84 --> 1825.72] invert the -[1825.72 --> 1826.04] order. -[1826.78 --> 1827.22] Too many -[1827.22 --> 1828.26] times people -[1828.26 --> 1829.34] change the -[1829.34 --> 1830.14] expectations. -[1831.40 --> 1831.78] Too many -[1831.78 --> 1832.40] times Christians -[1832.40 --> 1832.92] say you -[1832.92 --> 1833.34] need to -[1833.34 --> 1833.90] live the -[1833.90 --> 1834.40] way we -[1834.40 --> 1835.32] live before -[1835.32 --> 1836.28] you have -[1836.28 --> 1836.44] the -[1836.44 --> 1836.96] transformation -[1836.96 --> 1837.94] we have. -[1840.36 --> 1841.22] The gospel -[1841.22 --> 1842.40] is the -[1842.40 --> 1843.14] good news -[1843.14 --> 1843.70] of Jesus -[1843.70 --> 1844.28] Christ. -[1844.70 --> 1845.30] And it's -[1845.30 --> 1846.16] laying hold -[1846.16 --> 1846.48] of the -[1846.48 --> 1847.22] gospel that -[1847.22 --> 1847.82] transforms -[1847.82 --> 1848.22] us. -[1848.50 --> 1849.08] By grace -[1849.08 --> 1849.70] through faith -[1849.70 --> 1850.22] when people -[1850.22 --> 1850.98] believe this -[1850.98 --> 1851.38] truth, -[1851.68 --> 1852.08] you are -[1852.08 --> 1852.76] transformed. -[1853.18 --> 1853.80] The gospel -[1853.80 --> 1854.72] transforms you -[1854.72 --> 1855.48] because God -[1855.48 --> 1856.46] has already -[1856.46 --> 1857.76] regenerated your -[1857.76 --> 1858.26] heart so -[1858.26 --> 1858.56] that you -[1858.56 --> 1859.50] can believe. -[1860.14 --> 1860.22] Right? -[1860.32 --> 1861.00] Regeneration -[1861.00 --> 1861.78] precedes -[1861.78 --> 1862.36] faith. -[1862.46 --> 1862.68] We had a -[1862.68 --> 1863.14] whole sermon -[1863.14 --> 1863.64] on that -[1863.64 --> 1864.40] from Romans -[1864.40 --> 1865.12] 9, 30 -[1865.12 --> 1865.96] to 10, 13. -[1867.40 --> 1867.92] Believing -[1867.92 --> 1869.12] this gospel -[1869.12 --> 1870.74] unites us -[1870.74 --> 1871.78] to Christ. -[1873.50 --> 1874.02] And so we -[1874.02 --> 1875.30] cannot exchange -[1875.30 --> 1876.00] the gospel -[1876.00 --> 1877.06] for what we've -[1877.06 --> 1877.42] called a -[1877.42 --> 1878.22] nova lex, -[1878.30 --> 1878.78] a new -[1878.78 --> 1879.44] law. -[1880.22 --> 1880.84] And we -[1880.84 --> 1881.72] cannot exchange -[1881.72 --> 1882.38] the gospel -[1882.38 --> 1883.52] for no -[1883.52 --> 1884.04] law. -[1885.00 --> 1885.50] We can't -[1885.50 --> 1886.12] exchange the -[1886.12 --> 1886.76] gospel for -[1886.76 --> 1887.26] the messaging -[1887.26 --> 1888.00] of the -[1888.00 --> 1888.40] world. -[1889.38 --> 1889.92] The gospel -[1889.92 --> 1890.72] is a -[1890.72 --> 1891.60] message and -[1891.60 --> 1892.20] an eternal -[1892.20 --> 1893.00] message that -[1893.00 --> 1893.66] gives us an -[1893.66 --> 1894.56] eternal hope. -[1895.22 --> 1895.68] And we -[1895.68 --> 1896.20] can't settle -[1896.20 --> 1896.80] for a -[1896.80 --> 1897.40] terrestrial -[1897.40 --> 1898.68] hope and -[1898.68 --> 1899.08] a lesser -[1899.08 --> 1899.82] glory in -[1899.82 --> 1900.44] its place. -[1901.26 --> 1901.92] But all -[1901.92 --> 1902.58] too often -[1902.58 --> 1903.78] that's what -[1903.78 --> 1904.16] we do. -[1906.02 --> 1906.74] And so that -[1906.74 --> 1907.16] brings us to -[1907.16 --> 1907.52] the second -[1907.52 --> 1908.06] question. -[1909.00 --> 1909.46] How does -[1909.46 --> 1910.26] God give -[1910.26 --> 1911.24] the gospel? -[1911.24 --> 1912.20] How does -[1912.20 --> 1912.64] God make -[1912.64 --> 1913.34] known this -[1913.34 --> 1913.76] truth? -[1913.98 --> 1914.28] How do -[1914.28 --> 1914.82] we ensure -[1914.82 --> 1915.14] that we're -[1915.14 --> 1915.48] getting the -[1915.48 --> 1916.06] real thing -[1916.06 --> 1916.36] and not -[1916.36 --> 1917.20] some lesser -[1917.20 --> 1918.02] gospel, -[1918.22 --> 1919.14] some substitute? -[1919.94 --> 1920.34] And how do -[1920.34 --> 1921.26] we have other -[1921.26 --> 1922.08] people hear -[1922.08 --> 1922.78] this truth -[1922.78 --> 1923.16] and be -[1923.16 --> 1923.86] convicted by -[1923.86 --> 1924.10] it and -[1924.10 --> 1924.36] believe? -[1925.64 --> 1926.26] We've seen -[1926.26 --> 1926.82] this too. -[1927.46 --> 1928.38] Romans 10 -[1928.38 --> 1929.28] tells us -[1929.28 --> 1930.68] very clearly, -[1930.88 --> 1931.48] if you declare -[1931.48 --> 1932.20] with your mouth -[1932.20 --> 1933.18] Jesus is Lord -[1933.18 --> 1933.78] and believe -[1933.78 --> 1934.38] in your heart -[1934.38 --> 1934.74] that God -[1934.74 --> 1935.24] raised him -[1935.24 --> 1935.60] from the -[1935.60 --> 1935.82] dead, -[1935.92 --> 1936.40] you will -[1936.40 --> 1937.04] be saved. -[1938.16 --> 1938.44] And there's -[1938.44 --> 1939.04] another summary -[1939.04 --> 1939.66] of the gospel. -[1939.84 --> 1940.72] Jesus is Lord -[1940.72 --> 1941.22] and God -[1941.22 --> 1941.80] raised him -[1941.80 --> 1942.18] from the -[1942.18 --> 1942.40] dead. -[1943.28 --> 1943.90] That's all -[1943.90 --> 1944.28] it takes -[1944.28 --> 1944.58] to be -[1944.58 --> 1944.86] saved. -[1945.88 --> 1946.32] Believing -[1946.32 --> 1946.88] this truth -[1946.88 --> 1947.24] is the -[1947.24 --> 1947.76] gift of -[1947.76 --> 1948.16] God -[1948.16 --> 1948.94] by grace -[1948.94 --> 1949.58] through faith. -[1950.44 --> 1950.72] And Paul -[1950.72 --> 1951.48] says very -[1951.48 --> 1952.46] clearly to -[1952.46 --> 1953.12] everyone who -[1953.12 --> 1953.90] calls on -[1953.90 --> 1954.14] the name -[1954.14 --> 1954.38] of the -[1954.38 --> 1954.58] Lord -[1954.58 --> 1955.12] that you -[1955.12 --> 1955.80] will be -[1955.80 --> 1956.24] saved. -[1957.68 --> 1958.24] But again, -[1958.96 --> 1959.52] that begs -[1959.52 --> 1960.26] the question, -[1960.88 --> 1961.48] how can -[1961.48 --> 1962.14] they call -[1962.14 --> 1962.50] on the -[1962.50 --> 1962.76] name of -[1962.76 --> 1963.04] the Lord? -[1963.12 --> 1963.60] How will -[1963.60 --> 1964.44] they hear -[1964.44 --> 1964.80] the name -[1964.80 --> 1965.02] of the -[1965.02 --> 1965.36] Lord in -[1965.36 --> 1965.68] order to -[1965.68 --> 1966.46] call on -[1966.46 --> 1966.66] him? -[1967.68 --> 1967.82] And -[1967.82 --> 1968.06] scripture -[1968.06 --> 1968.68] has this -[1968.68 --> 1969.30] answer too. -[1969.30 --> 1970.62] How then -[1970.62 --> 1970.96] can they -[1970.96 --> 1971.40] call on -[1971.40 --> 1971.78] the one -[1971.78 --> 1973.12] they have -[1973.12 --> 1973.66] not believed -[1973.66 --> 1973.94] in? -[1974.18 --> 1974.44] And how -[1974.44 --> 1974.74] can they -[1974.74 --> 1975.26] believe in -[1975.26 --> 1975.72] one of -[1975.72 --> 1976.10] whom they -[1976.10 --> 1976.48] have not -[1976.48 --> 1976.80] heard? -[1977.04 --> 1977.40] And how -[1977.40 --> 1977.72] can they -[1977.72 --> 1978.72] hear without -[1978.72 --> 1979.50] someone preaching -[1979.50 --> 1979.94] to them? -[1979.98 --> 1980.26] And how -[1980.26 --> 1980.86] can anyone -[1980.86 --> 1981.74] preach unless -[1981.74 --> 1982.20] they are -[1982.20 --> 1982.58] sent? -[1983.72 --> 1984.64] God gives -[1984.64 --> 1985.28] the gospel -[1985.28 --> 1986.04] by sending -[1986.04 --> 1987.28] out preachers. -[1988.04 --> 1988.64] And let me -[1988.64 --> 1989.08] be really -[1989.08 --> 1989.42] clear, -[1989.56 --> 1989.70] okay, -[1989.74 --> 1990.22] it is true -[1990.22 --> 1990.60] that I -[1990.60 --> 1990.98] have a -[1990.98 --> 1991.26] unique -[1991.26 --> 1991.76] calling -[1991.76 --> 1992.62] standing on -[1992.62 --> 1993.04] this stage -[1993.04 --> 1993.28] as a -[1993.28 --> 1993.50] preacher, -[1993.66 --> 1994.18] Pastor Kevin, -[1994.52 --> 1995.06] Pastor Josh, -[1995.14 --> 1995.58] anyone who -[1995.58 --> 1996.02] comes up -[1996.02 --> 1996.68] here and -[1996.68 --> 1997.60] is given -[1997.60 --> 1998.42] to speak -[1998.42 --> 1998.86] God's -[1998.86 --> 1999.24] word to -[1999.24 --> 1999.52] you has -[1999.52 --> 2000.00] a unique -[2000.00 --> 2000.68] calling in -[2000.68 --> 2001.18] a way that -[2001.18 --> 2002.02] is intended -[2002.02 --> 2002.52] to build -[2002.52 --> 2002.82] up the -[2002.82 --> 2003.28] church and -[2003.28 --> 2003.86] to equip -[2003.86 --> 2004.70] you for -[2004.70 --> 2005.68] your expression -[2005.68 --> 2006.68] of faith, -[2006.78 --> 2007.22] for your -[2007.22 --> 2008.72] expression of -[2008.72 --> 2009.64] the same -[2009.64 --> 2010.48] calling. -[2011.42 --> 2012.30] Because you, -[2012.68 --> 2013.46] every one of -[2013.46 --> 2013.76] you who -[2013.76 --> 2014.08] believe, -[2014.20 --> 2014.64] are called -[2014.64 --> 2015.16] to preach -[2015.16 --> 2015.78] the gospel. -[2016.46 --> 2017.02] That's how -[2017.02 --> 2017.76] people hear, -[2018.08 --> 2018.48] that's how -[2018.48 --> 2019.18] people know, -[2019.52 --> 2020.04] that's how -[2020.04 --> 2020.66] God gives -[2020.66 --> 2021.08] us the -[2021.08 --> 2021.52] message. -[2022.34 --> 2022.66] Again, -[2022.76 --> 2023.08] in Romans -[2023.08 --> 2023.40] 10, -[2023.52 --> 2023.96] Paul says, -[2023.96 --> 2024.96] consequently, -[2025.20 --> 2025.86] faith comes -[2025.86 --> 2026.52] from hearing -[2026.52 --> 2027.24] the message -[2027.24 --> 2027.56] and the -[2027.56 --> 2028.08] message is -[2028.08 --> 2028.96] heard through -[2028.96 --> 2029.58] the word -[2029.58 --> 2030.90] of Christ. -[2033.22 --> 2033.96] And here, -[2034.40 --> 2035.28] I'm going to -[2035.28 --> 2036.02] slow down -[2036.02 --> 2037.80] because I -[2037.80 --> 2038.28] want to be -[2038.28 --> 2039.74] really clear -[2039.74 --> 2040.90] about the -[2040.90 --> 2041.32] next thing -[2041.32 --> 2041.76] I say. -[2042.98 --> 2043.56] Because -[2043.56 --> 2044.30] sometimes, -[2045.06 --> 2045.88] well-meaning -[2045.88 --> 2047.00] people hear -[2047.00 --> 2048.22] this message, -[2048.34 --> 2048.84] hear this -[2048.84 --> 2049.50] truth, -[2049.80 --> 2050.78] and immediately -[2050.78 --> 2052.72] our brains -[2052.72 --> 2053.26] have been -[2053.26 --> 2053.78] conditioned -[2053.78 --> 2054.78] to hear -[2054.78 --> 2055.34] the words -[2055.34 --> 2055.94] of Francis -[2055.94 --> 2056.44] Assisi, -[2057.36 --> 2057.96] who said, -[2058.40 --> 2058.92] always preach -[2058.92 --> 2059.52] the gospel, -[2060.12 --> 2061.50] if necessary, -[2062.20 --> 2062.92] use words. -[2064.36 --> 2065.38] The idea -[2065.38 --> 2066.10] there being -[2066.10 --> 2067.04] that if you -[2067.04 --> 2067.96] live the -[2067.96 --> 2068.88] kind of life -[2068.88 --> 2069.62] that the -[2069.62 --> 2070.40] gospel talks -[2070.40 --> 2070.84] about, -[2071.18 --> 2072.62] and people -[2072.62 --> 2073.32] see that, -[2073.94 --> 2075.26] then they -[2075.26 --> 2075.78] will see -[2075.78 --> 2076.50] that life -[2076.50 --> 2077.38] and want -[2077.38 --> 2078.02] that life, -[2078.06 --> 2078.68] and you -[2078.68 --> 2079.46] don't actually -[2079.46 --> 2080.08] have to say -[2080.08 --> 2080.46] anything. -[2080.74 --> 2081.30] You don't -[2081.30 --> 2081.86] actually have -[2081.86 --> 2082.72] to use words. -[2082.72 --> 2084.28] but hear -[2084.28 --> 2084.54] this, -[2084.60 --> 2084.84] this is -[2084.84 --> 2085.14] really -[2085.14 --> 2085.74] important, -[2086.14 --> 2086.24] right? -[2086.74 --> 2087.34] Salvation -[2087.34 --> 2088.20] doesn't come -[2088.20 --> 2089.18] to anyone -[2089.18 --> 2091.14] by following -[2091.14 --> 2092.38] someone's -[2092.38 --> 2093.04] example. -[2096.12 --> 2096.68] Now, -[2096.72 --> 2096.94] don't hear -[2096.94 --> 2097.16] what I'm -[2097.16 --> 2097.66] not saying. -[2098.40 --> 2098.90] Set a -[2098.90 --> 2099.54] good example. -[2101.06 --> 2101.88] But it is -[2101.88 --> 2102.78] not by your -[2102.78 --> 2104.06] example that -[2104.06 --> 2104.52] people are -[2104.52 --> 2104.82] saved. -[2104.98 --> 2105.48] It's not -[2105.48 --> 2106.04] even by -[2106.04 --> 2106.86] following the -[2106.86 --> 2107.64] example of -[2107.64 --> 2108.66] Jesus that -[2108.66 --> 2109.16] people are -[2109.16 --> 2109.54] saved. -[2109.54 --> 2109.60] saved. -[2110.48 --> 2111.30] Because in -[2111.30 --> 2112.02] following the -[2112.02 --> 2112.52] example, -[2112.84 --> 2113.28] what do we -[2113.28 --> 2113.58] do? -[2114.66 --> 2115.30] At least -[2115.30 --> 2115.70] what do I -[2115.70 --> 2115.96] do? -[2116.74 --> 2117.66] I fail -[2117.66 --> 2118.84] all the -[2118.84 --> 2119.22] time. -[2120.06 --> 2120.74] I can't -[2120.74 --> 2121.24] do it. -[2121.70 --> 2122.40] I can't -[2122.40 --> 2122.92] keep it -[2122.92 --> 2123.66] perfectly. -[2124.72 --> 2125.00] And so -[2125.00 --> 2125.44] it's true -[2125.44 --> 2125.86] for people -[2125.86 --> 2126.38] who follow -[2126.38 --> 2127.30] me as -[2127.30 --> 2127.90] an example. -[2128.06 --> 2128.40] You're not -[2128.40 --> 2128.60] going to -[2128.60 --> 2128.86] do it -[2128.86 --> 2129.30] because I -[2129.30 --> 2129.60] can't -[2129.60 --> 2129.96] do it. -[2130.68 --> 2131.34] People are -[2131.34 --> 2132.04] saved not -[2132.04 --> 2132.78] by following -[2132.78 --> 2133.92] the example -[2133.92 --> 2135.38] but by -[2135.38 --> 2136.82] believing the -[2136.82 --> 2137.34] message. -[2137.34 --> 2137.42] message. -[2139.00 --> 2139.26] And so -[2139.26 --> 2139.84] again, let -[2139.84 --> 2140.36] me be really -[2140.36 --> 2140.62] clear. -[2140.94 --> 2141.78] The life -[2141.78 --> 2142.70] you live -[2142.70 --> 2144.46] confirms that -[2144.46 --> 2144.96] you believe -[2144.96 --> 2145.70] this message. -[2146.28 --> 2146.92] The life -[2146.92 --> 2147.66] you live -[2147.66 --> 2149.36] helps validate -[2149.36 --> 2150.50] the truth of -[2150.50 --> 2151.04] the gospel -[2151.04 --> 2151.50] that you -[2151.50 --> 2152.08] declare. -[2153.16 --> 2153.76] But for -[2153.76 --> 2154.54] people to -[2154.54 --> 2155.84] receive salvation -[2155.84 --> 2156.56] and to be -[2156.56 --> 2157.24] saved by -[2157.24 --> 2157.88] their believing, -[2158.02 --> 2158.46] they have to -[2158.46 --> 2159.36] hear the -[2159.36 --> 2160.02] message of -[2160.02 --> 2161.42] Jesus and -[2161.42 --> 2162.26] confess that -[2162.26 --> 2162.94] Jesus is -[2162.94 --> 2163.66] Lord and -[2163.66 --> 2164.24] believe that -[2164.24 --> 2164.72] God raised -[2164.72 --> 2165.04] him from -[2165.04 --> 2165.42] the dead. -[2165.42 --> 2171.08] the life -[2171.08 --> 2171.50] you live -[2171.50 --> 2172.54] confirms the -[2172.54 --> 2173.02] truth of -[2173.02 --> 2173.58] the gospel -[2173.58 --> 2175.36] but it -[2175.36 --> 2175.66] doesn't -[2175.66 --> 2176.18] preach it. -[2177.40 --> 2178.22] To preach -[2178.22 --> 2178.92] it, you've -[2178.92 --> 2179.38] got to use -[2179.38 --> 2179.78] words. -[2180.50 --> 2181.08] You've got to -[2181.08 --> 2181.40] use the -[2181.40 --> 2181.68] scriptures. -[2181.86 --> 2182.16] You've got to -[2182.16 --> 2182.70] rely on the -[2182.70 --> 2183.16] Holy Spirit -[2183.16 --> 2183.96] to transform -[2183.96 --> 2184.66] lives by -[2184.66 --> 2184.86] it. -[2185.40 --> 2186.02] But here's -[2186.02 --> 2186.50] the promise -[2186.50 --> 2186.92] that comes -[2186.92 --> 2187.18] with the -[2187.18 --> 2187.48] gospel, -[2187.76 --> 2188.02] that he -[2188.02 --> 2188.40] will do -[2188.40 --> 2188.64] it, -[2189.08 --> 2189.36] that he -[2189.36 --> 2189.96] will use -[2189.96 --> 2190.56] you and -[2190.56 --> 2190.82] me. -[2191.12 --> 2191.44] The good -[2191.44 --> 2192.06] news of -[2192.06 --> 2192.86] our call -[2192.86 --> 2193.34] to mission -[2193.34 --> 2193.94] together is -[2193.94 --> 2194.32] that God -[2194.32 --> 2195.26] promises to -[2195.26 --> 2196.02] use broken -[2196.02 --> 2197.22] vessels like -[2197.22 --> 2198.22] us to -[2198.22 --> 2199.00] accomplish his -[2199.00 --> 2199.46] purposes. -[2200.44 --> 2200.90] God says -[2200.90 --> 2201.24] that when he -[2201.24 --> 2201.82] sends out -[2201.82 --> 2202.32] his word, -[2202.48 --> 2203.18] it will not -[2203.18 --> 2203.78] return to -[2203.78 --> 2204.60] him except -[2204.60 --> 2205.54] for accomplishing -[2205.54 --> 2206.16] the purposes -[2206.16 --> 2206.74] that he has -[2206.74 --> 2207.08] sent it. -[2207.26 --> 2208.00] He promises -[2208.00 --> 2209.04] to use our -[2209.04 --> 2209.54] feeble -[2209.54 --> 2210.18] attempts. -[2210.30 --> 2210.78] He promises -[2210.78 --> 2211.58] to use our -[2211.58 --> 2212.14] stumbling -[2212.14 --> 2212.86] words. -[2213.00 --> 2213.50] He promises -[2213.50 --> 2215.10] to use our -[2215.10 --> 2216.94] boring examples -[2216.94 --> 2218.18] and our bad -[2218.18 --> 2220.14] sermons because -[2220.14 --> 2220.74] he is a good -[2220.74 --> 2222.34] God who can -[2222.34 --> 2222.82] do that. -[2222.82 --> 2224.88] God gives -[2224.88 --> 2225.64] the seed of -[2225.64 --> 2226.22] the gospel. -[2226.50 --> 2226.96] He gives -[2226.96 --> 2227.22] it the -[2227.22 --> 2227.54] growth. -[2227.86 --> 2228.56] He causes -[2228.56 --> 2228.96] it to -[2228.96 --> 2229.52] take root. -[2231.12 --> 2231.68] So God -[2231.68 --> 2232.18] gives the -[2232.18 --> 2232.92] gospel through -[2232.92 --> 2233.56] his word -[2233.56 --> 2234.90] proclaimed by -[2234.90 --> 2235.30] you and -[2235.30 --> 2235.54] me. -[2236.30 --> 2236.92] God gives -[2236.92 --> 2237.68] the message -[2237.68 --> 2238.72] when we are -[2238.72 --> 2239.40] not ashamed -[2239.40 --> 2239.86] and we -[2239.86 --> 2240.46] declare it -[2240.46 --> 2240.74] to the -[2240.74 --> 2241.12] nations. -[2242.44 --> 2243.28] You are -[2243.28 --> 2244.02] his witnesses -[2244.02 --> 2245.22] through Judea -[2245.22 --> 2245.88] and Samaria -[2245.88 --> 2246.54] and to all -[2246.54 --> 2247.16] the nations -[2247.16 --> 2247.76] of the world. -[2248.08 --> 2248.94] You proclaim -[2248.94 --> 2249.58] his kingdom -[2249.58 --> 2250.30] come and his -[2250.30 --> 2250.90] kingdom coming. -[2250.90 --> 2252.32] You are the -[2252.32 --> 2253.70] ambassadors of -[2253.70 --> 2254.26] the gospel. -[2255.88 --> 2256.70] And when we -[2256.70 --> 2257.94] go out with -[2257.94 --> 2258.86] this message -[2258.86 --> 2260.24] lives are -[2260.24 --> 2260.72] changed. -[2262.08 --> 2262.86] The world -[2262.86 --> 2263.66] is transformed -[2263.66 --> 2265.28] because that's -[2265.28 --> 2265.78] how God has -[2265.78 --> 2266.40] set it up -[2266.40 --> 2267.74] in that order. -[2268.78 --> 2269.28] That's our -[2269.28 --> 2270.40] third question, -[2270.48 --> 2271.18] our third point -[2271.18 --> 2271.74] this morning. -[2272.14 --> 2273.12] How then does -[2273.12 --> 2273.78] the gospel -[2273.78 --> 2275.32] from start to -[2275.32 --> 2276.80] finish sustain -[2276.80 --> 2277.86] our lives? -[2278.68 --> 2279.40] Believing in the -[2279.40 --> 2280.12] gospel is how we -[2280.12 --> 2280.82] are born again. -[2281.34 --> 2281.84] Believing in the -[2281.84 --> 2282.44] gospel is how -[2282.44 --> 2283.20] Christian life -[2283.20 --> 2283.76] starts. -[2284.28 --> 2285.14] But believing -[2285.14 --> 2285.96] and applying -[2285.96 --> 2286.82] the gospel is -[2286.82 --> 2288.32] also how our -[2288.32 --> 2289.08] Christian life -[2289.08 --> 2289.92] is sustained. -[2290.98 --> 2291.74] Paul writes -[2291.74 --> 2292.36] in our text, -[2292.52 --> 2293.20] now to him -[2293.20 --> 2293.92] who is able -[2293.92 --> 2294.72] to establish -[2294.72 --> 2295.70] you in -[2295.70 --> 2296.44] accordance with -[2296.44 --> 2297.08] my gospel. -[2297.92 --> 2298.50] Sometimes I -[2298.50 --> 2298.94] think when we -[2298.94 --> 2299.44] hear the word -[2299.44 --> 2299.94] establish, -[2300.50 --> 2300.92] we think of -[2300.92 --> 2301.38] the beginning. -[2302.12 --> 2302.48] We think of -[2302.48 --> 2303.04] the start, -[2303.46 --> 2304.12] the new thing -[2304.12 --> 2304.66] that is done. -[2304.78 --> 2305.24] God is able -[2305.24 --> 2305.86] to establish -[2305.86 --> 2307.14] you by faith -[2307.14 --> 2307.80] in the gospel. -[2308.42 --> 2309.28] But the word -[2309.28 --> 2309.96] here that's -[2309.96 --> 2311.14] translated establish -[2311.14 --> 2312.30] also means -[2312.30 --> 2312.94] strengthen. -[2313.98 --> 2314.54] In fact, -[2314.62 --> 2315.36] if you read -[2315.36 --> 2315.76] a different -[2315.76 --> 2316.44] translation of -[2316.44 --> 2316.82] the Bible, -[2316.98 --> 2317.64] you might see -[2317.64 --> 2318.50] something like -[2318.50 --> 2319.72] who is able -[2319.72 --> 2320.40] to make you -[2320.40 --> 2321.08] strong or -[2321.08 --> 2321.64] who is able -[2321.64 --> 2322.24] to strengthen -[2322.24 --> 2322.60] you. -[2323.40 --> 2323.96] The gospel -[2323.96 --> 2324.58] isn't just -[2324.58 --> 2325.46] the way into -[2325.46 --> 2326.32] Christian faith, -[2326.46 --> 2327.36] it is the way -[2327.36 --> 2328.18] of Christian -[2328.18 --> 2328.58] faith. -[2329.80 --> 2330.40] Our faith -[2330.40 --> 2331.00] is started -[2331.00 --> 2331.70] by believing -[2331.70 --> 2332.28] in the gospel -[2332.28 --> 2332.98] and we are -[2332.98 --> 2333.58] transformed -[2333.58 --> 2334.70] by believing -[2334.70 --> 2335.32] the gospel. -[2336.12 --> 2336.88] To put this -[2336.88 --> 2337.42] in theological -[2337.42 --> 2337.94] terms that -[2337.94 --> 2338.26] we've used -[2338.26 --> 2338.58] before, -[2338.70 --> 2339.52] we are justified -[2339.52 --> 2340.96] when we believe -[2340.96 --> 2341.50] the gospel -[2341.50 --> 2342.52] and we are -[2342.52 --> 2343.78] sanctified in -[2343.78 --> 2344.56] our believing -[2344.56 --> 2345.50] of the gospel. -[2346.52 --> 2347.32] This is actually -[2347.32 --> 2348.12] the point we saw -[2348.12 --> 2349.00] in Romans 6 -[2349.00 --> 2350.66] verse 5 to 7. -[2350.74 --> 2351.18] It's a little bit -[2351.18 --> 2352.18] longer but it's -[2352.18 --> 2353.00] worth reading again. -[2354.60 --> 2355.76] For if we have -[2355.76 --> 2356.82] been united with -[2356.82 --> 2357.66] him in a death -[2357.66 --> 2358.40] like his, -[2358.78 --> 2359.54] we will certainly -[2359.54 --> 2360.98] also be united -[2360.98 --> 2361.64] with him in a -[2361.64 --> 2362.84] resurrection like -[2362.84 --> 2363.18] his. -[2363.18 --> 2364.54] For we know -[2364.54 --> 2365.26] that our old -[2365.26 --> 2366.24] self was crucified -[2366.24 --> 2367.12] with him so -[2367.12 --> 2367.68] that the body -[2367.68 --> 2368.54] ruled by sin -[2368.54 --> 2369.00] might be done -[2369.00 --> 2369.48] away with, -[2369.68 --> 2370.18] that we should -[2370.18 --> 2370.96] no longer be -[2370.96 --> 2371.96] slaves to sin -[2371.96 --> 2373.16] because anyone -[2373.16 --> 2373.98] who has died -[2373.98 --> 2374.68] has been set -[2374.68 --> 2375.56] free from sin. -[2375.98 --> 2376.86] Now if we died -[2376.86 --> 2377.44] with Christ, -[2377.54 --> 2378.22] we believe that -[2378.22 --> 2378.70] we will also -[2378.70 --> 2379.80] live with him -[2379.80 --> 2381.34] for we know -[2381.34 --> 2382.26] that since Christ -[2382.26 --> 2382.86] was raised -[2382.86 --> 2383.42] from the dead, -[2383.52 --> 2384.38] he cannot die -[2384.38 --> 2384.80] again. -[2385.28 --> 2386.22] Death no longer -[2386.22 --> 2387.02] has mastery -[2387.02 --> 2387.72] over him. -[2388.06 --> 2389.06] The death he died, -[2389.16 --> 2390.10] he died to sin -[2390.10 --> 2390.96] once for all, -[2391.02 --> 2392.38] but the life he lives, -[2392.38 --> 2395.06] he lives for God. -[2395.62 --> 2396.84] The life he lives, -[2396.92 --> 2398.06] he lives for God -[2398.06 --> 2399.54] because of the gospel. -[2400.90 --> 2401.96] And I can't overstate -[2401.96 --> 2402.50] this truth. -[2402.88 --> 2403.78] It is applying -[2403.78 --> 2405.06] the gospel to -[2405.06 --> 2406.32] every aspect -[2406.32 --> 2407.54] of our lives -[2407.54 --> 2408.52] that transforms -[2408.52 --> 2409.84] every aspect -[2409.84 --> 2410.88] of our lives. -[2412.12 --> 2412.64] And so how do we -[2412.64 --> 2413.68] have victory over sin -[2413.68 --> 2414.26] in our lives? -[2414.34 --> 2415.04] How do we overcome -[2415.04 --> 2416.74] addictions and pain -[2416.74 --> 2417.76] and our brokenness? -[2417.96 --> 2418.86] It's through the gospel. -[2418.86 --> 2420.60] It's through our being -[2420.60 --> 2421.84] united to Christ. -[2422.10 --> 2423.24] It's by the application -[2423.24 --> 2424.00] of the gospel -[2424.00 --> 2425.16] in every corner -[2425.16 --> 2426.02] of our hearts -[2426.02 --> 2426.86] and in every corner -[2426.86 --> 2427.66] of our being -[2427.66 --> 2428.92] that our union -[2428.92 --> 2429.58] with Christ -[2429.58 --> 2430.44] is made more -[2430.44 --> 2431.54] and more effective -[2431.54 --> 2432.60] in the lives -[2432.60 --> 2433.12] that we live. -[2439.12 --> 2440.24] My heart, -[2440.62 --> 2442.86] my heart is burdened -[2443.50 --> 2445.20] for this truth -[2445.20 --> 2446.72] in the church today. -[2446.72 --> 2450.04] And I'm afraid -[2450.04 --> 2450.74] that what you're -[2450.74 --> 2451.66] hearing me say -[2451.66 --> 2454.44] is that you need -[2454.44 --> 2455.12] to have a personal -[2455.12 --> 2455.70] relationship -[2455.70 --> 2456.56] with Jesus Christ. -[2458.94 --> 2459.96] That somehow -[2459.96 --> 2460.80] what we're talking -[2460.80 --> 2461.48] about here -[2461.48 --> 2462.42] is that you need -[2462.42 --> 2463.74] to have this emotive, -[2463.92 --> 2465.58] experiential expression -[2465.58 --> 2466.90] of this personal -[2466.90 --> 2467.86] relationship -[2467.86 --> 2468.84] with Jesus Christ. -[2469.14 --> 2469.30] Now, -[2470.68 --> 2471.30] I want you -[2471.30 --> 2472.02] to have that. -[2473.14 --> 2474.12] But when I'm talking -[2474.12 --> 2474.84] about union -[2474.84 --> 2475.70] with Christ, -[2475.70 --> 2476.56] I'm talking -[2476.56 --> 2477.48] one step -[2477.48 --> 2478.56] before that even. -[2479.60 --> 2479.72] Right? -[2479.76 --> 2481.12] If the experiential -[2481.12 --> 2482.62] emotional reality -[2482.62 --> 2484.26] is what is expressed, -[2484.48 --> 2485.22] I want to talk -[2485.22 --> 2486.52] about the spiritual -[2486.52 --> 2487.80] internal reality, -[2487.96 --> 2489.90] the new ontological truth -[2489.90 --> 2491.24] that you have been -[2491.24 --> 2492.34] united with Jesus -[2492.34 --> 2493.70] and that redefines -[2493.70 --> 2494.54] reality. -[2494.80 --> 2495.56] It's less about -[2495.56 --> 2496.60] your expression -[2496.60 --> 2497.80] and your feeling -[2497.80 --> 2498.72] and more about -[2498.72 --> 2500.18] His reality -[2500.18 --> 2501.52] of being connected -[2501.52 --> 2502.04] to you. -[2502.04 --> 2506.10] My heart is burdened -[2506.10 --> 2507.58] for us as a church -[2507.58 --> 2508.62] and for all the church -[2508.62 --> 2509.10] to know -[2509.10 --> 2510.58] that the reality -[2510.58 --> 2512.10] of being a Christian -[2512.10 --> 2513.76] means you are united -[2513.76 --> 2514.50] with Jesus, -[2514.66 --> 2515.82] that you and He -[2515.82 --> 2516.66] are one. -[2518.56 --> 2519.98] And that changes -[2519.98 --> 2522.34] everything about you. -[2522.84 --> 2524.32] That changes everything -[2524.32 --> 2526.06] possible for you. -[2527.06 --> 2528.70] Broken are made whole, -[2528.90 --> 2530.24] not because we feel it, -[2530.24 --> 2531.14] but because Jesus -[2531.14 --> 2531.84] has done it. -[2533.60 --> 2533.82] Right? -[2533.88 --> 2534.40] The hurting -[2534.40 --> 2535.22] are helped, -[2535.40 --> 2536.76] not because our problems -[2536.76 --> 2537.38] are solved, -[2537.56 --> 2538.50] but because Jesus -[2538.50 --> 2539.44] is in us -[2539.44 --> 2540.16] and with us -[2540.16 --> 2541.70] and working through us. -[2541.70 --> 2545.30] this is the reality -[2545.30 --> 2546.74] that we declare -[2546.74 --> 2547.64] as Christians -[2547.64 --> 2549.14] proclaiming the gospel -[2549.14 --> 2550.46] that if you confess -[2550.46 --> 2551.22] with your mouth -[2551.22 --> 2552.44] and believe in your heart -[2552.44 --> 2553.94] that God raised Him -[2553.94 --> 2554.48] from the dead, -[2554.78 --> 2555.92] you, by grace -[2555.92 --> 2556.48] through faith, -[2556.62 --> 2558.64] are united to Him. -[2559.02 --> 2561.04] And that changes -[2561.04 --> 2561.70] everything. -[2566.70 --> 2567.58] Which brings us -[2567.58 --> 2568.16] to the last -[2568.16 --> 2569.34] and final question. -[2569.34 --> 2571.82] God gives the gospel -[2571.82 --> 2573.08] to start and sustain -[2573.08 --> 2573.92] our lives -[2573.92 --> 2576.92] of God-glorifying gratitude. -[2578.60 --> 2580.52] Why God-glorifying gratitude? -[2582.24 --> 2583.14] Well, in a word, -[2584.02 --> 2585.06] how could we not? -[2586.06 --> 2587.28] How could we not -[2587.28 --> 2588.10] if we're united -[2588.10 --> 2589.62] with this Jesus Christ? -[2589.70 --> 2590.42] How could we not -[2590.42 --> 2591.40] if we've been saved -[2591.40 --> 2592.40] from the wrath of God -[2592.40 --> 2593.26] and the depths of hell -[2593.26 --> 2594.04] for our sin? -[2594.16 --> 2595.18] How could we not -[2595.18 --> 2596.92] but give praise to Him? -[2596.92 --> 2599.52] How could we not -[2599.52 --> 2602.32] worship this good God? -[2603.04 --> 2604.16] And that's what Paul does. -[2604.62 --> 2604.88] He says, -[2605.12 --> 2605.54] Now to Him -[2605.54 --> 2607.00] who is able to establish you -[2607.00 --> 2608.62] to the only wise God -[2608.62 --> 2610.24] be glory forever -[2610.24 --> 2612.70] through Jesus Christ. -[2613.88 --> 2615.42] In this journey of Romans, -[2615.54 --> 2616.20] we have seen -[2616.20 --> 2617.52] the depth of our guilt. -[2617.66 --> 2618.28] We have seen -[2618.28 --> 2619.12] the magnitude -[2619.12 --> 2620.58] of God's grace. -[2620.84 --> 2622.20] And now we live -[2622.20 --> 2623.56] in gratitude. -[2623.56 --> 2625.82] In this journey -[2625.82 --> 2626.48] through Romans, -[2626.60 --> 2627.50] we have moved -[2627.50 --> 2629.88] from our worry in life -[2629.88 --> 2631.38] to worshiping -[2631.38 --> 2632.76] through our worry. -[2632.88 --> 2633.70] In this journey -[2633.70 --> 2634.26] through Romans, -[2634.38 --> 2635.24] we have seen -[2635.24 --> 2636.18] how our work -[2636.18 --> 2637.30] and our worship -[2637.30 --> 2639.20] are connected together. -[2640.00 --> 2641.06] In this journey -[2641.06 --> 2641.88] through Romans, -[2642.06 --> 2643.34] we have seen -[2643.34 --> 2645.04] just how good -[2645.04 --> 2646.04] and great -[2646.04 --> 2647.44] our God is -[2647.44 --> 2648.56] because we have heard -[2648.56 --> 2649.86] over and over -[2649.86 --> 2650.90] and over again -[2650.90 --> 2651.76] from the first -[2651.76 --> 2652.66] to the last -[2652.66 --> 2654.76] just how good -[2654.76 --> 2656.14] the good news -[2656.14 --> 2657.18] of the gospel -[2657.18 --> 2658.80] really is. -[2658.96 --> 2659.66] And so how -[2659.66 --> 2660.94] could we not -[2660.94 --> 2663.56] worship our God? -[2666.36 --> 2668.62] God has given us -[2668.62 --> 2669.10] Himself -[2669.10 --> 2670.60] in the gospel. -[2670.84 --> 2671.92] God has united us -[2671.92 --> 2672.94] to Jesus Christ -[2672.94 --> 2674.30] in the gospel. -[2674.76 --> 2676.34] God has taken us -[2676.34 --> 2677.14] from death -[2677.14 --> 2678.38] into life -[2678.38 --> 2679.86] by the gospel. -[2679.86 --> 2683.80] God gives the gospel -[2683.80 --> 2685.14] to start -[2685.14 --> 2686.68] and to strengthen, -[2686.94 --> 2687.68] to sustain -[2687.68 --> 2688.90] our lives -[2688.90 --> 2690.56] of God-glorifying -[2690.56 --> 2691.28] gratitude. -[2692.76 --> 2693.62] That's why -[2693.62 --> 2694.50] we gather here. -[2695.58 --> 2696.30] And that's why -[2696.30 --> 2697.28] you go from here -[2697.28 --> 2697.72] today -[2697.72 --> 2698.60] to proclaim -[2698.60 --> 2701.22] this same truth. -[2702.08 --> 2703.96] Go with this message -[2703.96 --> 2704.90] of grace. -[2705.06 --> 2705.78] Go with this -[2705.78 --> 2707.38] beautiful gospel. -[2707.38 --> 2708.86] Go as a people -[2708.86 --> 2709.92] who can't help -[2709.92 --> 2711.28] but praise -[2711.28 --> 2712.24] our God -[2712.24 --> 2713.14] and proclaim -[2713.14 --> 2714.88] His goodness -[2714.88 --> 2716.00] to the world. -[2716.16 --> 2716.96] Go because -[2716.96 --> 2718.28] this is who -[2718.28 --> 2719.14] He has -[2719.14 --> 2720.48] made you -[2720.48 --> 2721.70] to be. -[2722.26 --> 2722.66] Amen. -[2723.44 --> 2724.68] Let's pray together. -[2729.42 --> 2730.22] Lord, -[2730.38 --> 2731.94] our God, -[2731.94 --> 2735.28] we ask here -[2735.28 --> 2736.08] that you would -[2736.08 --> 2737.22] continue -[2737.22 --> 2738.56] to establish -[2738.56 --> 2739.32] us -[2739.32 --> 2740.18] in accordance -[2740.18 --> 2741.70] with your gospel. -[2742.72 --> 2743.28] Continue -[2743.28 --> 2744.40] to reveal -[2744.40 --> 2745.00] to us -[2745.00 --> 2745.56] the truth -[2745.56 --> 2747.10] of Jesus Christ, -[2747.26 --> 2747.82] the revelation -[2747.82 --> 2748.42] of the mystery -[2748.42 --> 2749.02] that was hidden -[2749.02 --> 2749.72] for so long -[2749.72 --> 2750.24] but has now -[2750.24 --> 2750.76] been revealed -[2750.76 --> 2751.24] to us -[2751.24 --> 2752.20] through the scriptures -[2752.20 --> 2752.92] and through -[2752.92 --> 2753.76] His life, -[2753.88 --> 2754.12] death, -[2754.30 --> 2754.74] resurrection, -[2755.22 --> 2755.74] through the working -[2755.74 --> 2756.32] and the power -[2756.32 --> 2757.24] of the Holy Spirit -[2757.24 --> 2758.16] so that we -[2758.16 --> 2758.90] all here -[2758.90 --> 2759.82] might come -[2759.82 --> 2760.70] to believe -[2760.70 --> 2762.10] and to the obedience -[2762.10 --> 2763.14] that comes -[2763.14 --> 2764.30] from faith. -[2766.78 --> 2767.84] And may we -[2767.84 --> 2769.02] go from this -[2769.02 --> 2769.52] place -[2769.52 --> 2770.86] to the table -[2770.86 --> 2771.84] and then out -[2771.84 --> 2772.82] to the world -[2772.82 --> 2774.72] to give You -[2774.72 --> 2776.16] glory forever -[2776.16 --> 2778.08] through Jesus Christ -[2778.08 --> 2778.74] our Lord. -[2779.74 --> 2780.40] In Your name -[2780.40 --> 2780.90] we pray. -[2781.84 --> 2782.20] Amen. -[2782.20 --> 2782.38] Amen. -[2783.96 --> 2784.64] Amen. -[2784.64 --> 2784.70] Amen. -[2784.70 --> 2794.40] One of the things -[2794.40 --> 2795.06] that our Lord -[2795.06 --> 2796.14] Jesus has done -[2796.14 --> 2797.96] is given us -[2797.96 --> 2798.60] a meal -[2798.60 --> 2800.04] by which -[2800.04 --> 2800.94] we recognize -[2800.94 --> 2801.46] Him, -[2802.14 --> 2802.78] by which -[2802.78 --> 2803.24] we take -[2803.24 --> 2803.74] the truth -[2803.74 --> 2804.66] of the words -[2804.66 --> 2805.66] of His revelation -[2805.66 --> 2806.90] and we hold -[2806.90 --> 2807.64] them in our hands -[2807.64 --> 2808.10] that we might -[2808.10 --> 2809.14] taste and see -[2809.14 --> 2810.12] that the Lord -[2810.12 --> 2810.56] is good. -[2811.72 --> 2812.34] The truth -[2812.34 --> 2813.04] of the gospel -[2813.04 --> 2813.76] is proclaimed -[2813.76 --> 2814.32] in word -[2814.32 --> 2814.98] and it is -[2814.98 --> 2815.40] proclaimed -[2815.40 --> 2816.68] here at the -[2816.68 --> 2817.00] table. -[2817.82 --> 2818.22] So we're going -[2818.22 --> 2818.84] to come to the -[2818.84 --> 2819.54] table together. -[2819.68 --> 2820.08] We have some -[2820.08 --> 2821.18] liturgy that will -[2821.18 --> 2822.16] usher us into -[2822.16 --> 2822.88] the presence of -[2822.88 --> 2823.66] God here to -[2823.66 --> 2824.64] receive from Him -[2824.64 --> 2825.46] His grace -[2825.46 --> 2826.10] confirmed. -[2827.60 --> 2828.06] And we will -[2828.06 --> 2828.46] gather -[2828.46 --> 2830.08] as a body of -[2830.08 --> 2831.04] those who believe -[2831.04 --> 2832.78] and who profess -[2832.78 --> 2834.34] this truth. -[2835.16 --> 2835.88] And so lift -[2835.88 --> 2837.06] up your hearts. -[2837.06 --> 2840.72] let us give -[2840.72 --> 2841.50] thanks to the -[2841.50 --> 2842.44] Lord our God. -[2845.38 --> 2846.10] Let's pray -[2846.10 --> 2846.44] together. -[2847.90 --> 2848.80] With joy -[2848.80 --> 2849.50] we praise -[2849.50 --> 2850.24] you gracious -[2850.24 --> 2851.34] God for you -[2851.34 --> 2852.06] have created -[2852.06 --> 2853.12] heaven and -[2853.12 --> 2853.54] earth. -[2854.26 --> 2854.64] You've made -[2854.64 --> 2855.22] us in your -[2855.22 --> 2855.90] image and you -[2855.90 --> 2856.32] have kept -[2856.32 --> 2857.12] covenant with -[2857.12 --> 2858.36] us even when -[2858.36 --> 2859.04] we fell into -[2859.04 --> 2859.34] sin. -[2860.26 --> 2861.06] We give you -[2861.06 --> 2861.74] thanks for -[2861.74 --> 2862.54] Jesus Christ -[2862.54 --> 2863.30] who by His -[2863.30 --> 2864.30] life, death, -[2864.30 --> 2865.02] and resurrection -[2865.02 --> 2866.20] opened to us -[2866.20 --> 2866.98] the way of -[2866.98 --> 2868.32] everlasting life. -[2869.20 --> 2869.54] Amen. -[2872.24 --> 2873.46] Our Lord Jesus -[2873.46 --> 2874.70] before He -[2874.70 --> 2875.62] suffered gave -[2875.62 --> 2876.40] us this -[2876.40 --> 2877.58] memorial of -[2877.58 --> 2878.62] His sacrifice -[2878.62 --> 2879.64] until He -[2879.64 --> 2880.30] comes again. -[2881.32 --> 2881.90] And the Lord -[2881.90 --> 2883.42] Jesus on the -[2883.42 --> 2883.92] night that He -[2883.92 --> 2884.60] was betrayed -[2884.60 --> 2885.96] took bread. -[2886.64 --> 2887.04] And when He -[2887.04 --> 2887.36] had given -[2887.36 --> 2888.06] thanks He -[2888.06 --> 2888.78] broke it and -[2888.78 --> 2889.62] He said this -[2889.62 --> 2890.66] is my body -[2890.66 --> 2892.38] which is for -[2892.38 --> 2892.64] you. -[2893.20 --> 2893.96] Do this -[2893.96 --> 2894.74] in remembrance -[2894.74 --> 2895.84] of me. -[2897.02 --> 2897.86] In the same -[2897.86 --> 2898.40] way He -[2898.40 --> 2898.84] took the -[2898.84 --> 2899.80] cup after -[2899.80 --> 2901.34] supper saying -[2901.34 --> 2902.78] this cup is -[2902.78 --> 2903.24] the new -[2903.24 --> 2904.08] covenant in -[2904.08 --> 2904.70] my blood. -[2905.22 --> 2906.06] Do this -[2906.06 --> 2907.02] whenever you -[2907.02 --> 2908.06] drink it in -[2908.06 --> 2909.46] remembrance of -[2909.46 --> 2909.76] me. -[2910.64 --> 2911.34] For whenever -[2911.34 --> 2912.64] we eat this -[2912.64 --> 2913.36] bread and -[2913.36 --> 2914.02] drink this -[2914.02 --> 2914.90] cup we -[2914.90 --> 2915.76] proclaim the -[2915.76 --> 2916.52] Lord's death -[2916.52 --> 2917.88] until He -[2917.88 --> 2918.62] comes again. -[2919.30 --> 2920.92] This is the -[2920.92 --> 2922.22] mystery of -[2922.22 --> 2922.78] our faith. -[2923.96 --> 2925.20] Your death -[2925.20 --> 2925.96] of Christ -[2925.96 --> 2926.78] we proclaim -[2926.78 --> 2927.94] your -[2927.94 --> 2928.52] resurrection -[2928.52 --> 2929.50] we affirm -[2929.50 --> 2930.14] with joy -[2930.14 --> 2931.58] your coming -[2931.58 --> 2932.32] we await -[2932.32 --> 2932.98] with hope -[2932.98 --> 2934.76] glory be to -[2934.76 --> 2935.52] you Lord -[2935.52 --> 2936.06] Jesus. -[2937.12 --> 2938.34] Church family -[2938.34 --> 2939.42] the Lord has -[2939.42 --> 2940.06] prepared His -[2940.06 --> 2941.08] table for all -[2941.08 --> 2942.14] who love -[2942.14 --> 2942.92] Him and -[2942.92 --> 2943.66] trust in Him -[2943.66 --> 2944.40] alone for -[2944.40 --> 2945.04] their salvation -[2945.04 --> 2946.28] and so come -[2946.28 --> 2948.00] to this table -[2948.00 --> 2950.08] you who have -[2950.08 --> 2950.90] been here -[2950.90 --> 2951.38] before. -[2952.38 --> 2952.82] Come to -[2952.82 --> 2953.56] this table -[2953.56 --> 2954.52] you who -[2954.52 --> 2955.30] have much -[2955.30 --> 2955.92] faith and -[2955.92 --> 2956.32] you who -[2956.32 --> 2956.72] would like -[2956.72 --> 2957.10] to have -[2957.10 --> 2957.44] more. -[2958.22 --> 2958.80] Come to -[2958.80 --> 2959.32] this table -[2959.32 --> 2959.80] you who -[2959.80 --> 2960.14] have been -[2960.14 --> 2960.54] to this -[2960.54 --> 2960.96] sacrament -[2960.96 --> 2962.20] often and -[2962.20 --> 2962.58] you who -[2962.58 --> 2963.06] have not -[2963.06 --> 2964.08] been for a -[2964.08 --> 2964.54] long time. -[2964.68 --> 2965.08] Come to -[2965.08 --> 2965.58] this table -[2965.58 --> 2966.22] you who -[2966.22 --> 2967.20] have tried -[2967.20 --> 2967.84] to follow -[2967.84 --> 2969.18] Jesus and -[2969.18 --> 2969.66] you who -[2969.66 --> 2970.36] have failed. -[2970.78 --> 2971.30] Come to -[2971.30 --> 2971.94] this table -[2971.94 --> 2972.72] because Jesus -[2972.72 --> 2973.50] is raised -[2973.50 --> 2974.22] and He -[2974.22 --> 2975.02] invites you. -[2975.34 --> 2975.72] Come to -[2975.72 --> 2976.24] this table -[2976.24 --> 2976.92] because this -[2976.92 --> 2977.60] is His -[2977.60 --> 2978.86] table set -[2978.86 --> 2980.00] for you. -[2981.20 --> 2981.64] These are -[2981.64 --> 2982.00] the gifts -[2982.00 --> 2982.62] of God -[2982.62 --> 2983.54] for the -[2983.54 --> 2984.68] people of -[2984.68 --> 2985.04] God. -[2986.40 --> 2987.10] As we -[2987.10 --> 2988.08] come to -[2988.08 --> 2988.70] this table -[2988.70 --> 2989.80] we have a -[2989.80 --> 2990.20] bit of a -[2990.20 --> 2991.06] process that -[2991.06 --> 2991.72] we do here. -[2992.16 --> 2992.94] We come up -[2992.94 --> 2993.50] in groups -[2993.50 --> 2994.02] and so we -[2994.02 --> 2994.30] will have -[2994.30 --> 2995.00] ushers that -[2995.00 --> 2995.60] will indicate -[2995.60 --> 2996.00] when it's -[2996.00 --> 2996.44] time for -[2996.44 --> 2996.88] your row -[2996.88 --> 2997.30] to come -[2997.30 --> 2997.74] forward -[2997.74 --> 2998.80] and then -[2998.80 --> 2999.06] we will -[2999.06 --> 2999.32] gather -[2999.32 --> 2999.88] around -[2999.88 --> 3000.56] and we -[3000.56 --> 3001.02] will pass -[3001.02 --> 3001.66] the elements -[3001.66 --> 3003.12] to the -[3003.12 --> 3003.62] left or -[3003.62 --> 3003.92] to your -[3003.92 --> 3004.42] right depending -[3004.42 --> 3004.78] on which -[3004.78 --> 3005.04] way you -[3005.04 --> 3005.24] go. -[3005.32 --> 3005.66] As you -[3005.66 --> 3006.16] pass the -[3006.16 --> 3006.98] bread we -[3006.98 --> 3007.48] invite you -[3007.48 --> 3007.90] to say -[3007.90 --> 3008.42] the body -[3008.42 --> 3008.96] of Christ -[3008.96 --> 3009.46] given for -[3009.46 --> 3009.70] you. -[3009.92 --> 3010.26] As you -[3010.26 --> 3010.74] pass the -[3010.74 --> 3011.26] juice we -[3011.26 --> 3011.66] invite you -[3011.66 --> 3012.04] to say -[3012.04 --> 3012.78] the blood -[3012.78 --> 3013.32] of Christ -[3013.32 --> 3013.90] shed for -[3013.90 --> 3014.12] you. -[3014.88 --> 3015.32] If you -[3015.32 --> 3015.78] are unable -[3015.78 --> 3016.18] to come -[3016.18 --> 3016.46] to the -[3016.46 --> 3016.86] front but -[3016.86 --> 3017.20] would like -[3017.20 --> 3017.92] to participate -[3017.92 --> 3018.32] in the -[3018.32 --> 3018.88] supper please -[3018.88 --> 3019.62] indicate that -[3019.62 --> 3019.96] to the -[3019.96 --> 3020.64] ushers and -[3020.64 --> 3020.90] they will -[3020.90 --> 3021.44] meet you -[3021.44 --> 3021.86] where you -[3021.86 --> 3022.34] are and -[3022.34 --> 3023.00] serve you -[3023.00 --> 3023.50] in your -[3023.50 --> 3024.16] seat in -[3024.16 --> 3024.54] the same -[3024.54 --> 3025.12] manner as -[3025.12 --> 3025.38] we are -[3025.38 --> 3025.74] all being -[3025.74 --> 3026.26] served up -[3026.26 --> 3026.44] here. -[3027.20 --> 3027.66] As well -[3027.66 --> 3028.12] on each -[3028.12 --> 3028.70] tray of -[3028.70 --> 3029.16] bread there -[3029.16 --> 3029.62] is little -[3029.62 --> 3030.10] cups in -[3030.10 --> 3030.40] the middle -[3030.40 --> 3030.76] that has -[3030.76 --> 3031.36] gluten-free -[3031.36 --> 3032.34] bread for -[3032.34 --> 3032.78] those who -[3032.78 --> 3033.52] would prefer -[3033.52 --> 3034.40] that. -[3034.98 --> 3035.34] We are -[3035.34 --> 3035.50] going to -[3035.50 --> 3036.34] begin with -[3036.34 --> 3036.82] the first -[3036.82 --> 3037.62] table and -[3037.62 --> 3037.82] that is -[3037.82 --> 3038.00] going to -[3038.00 --> 3038.48] be those -[3038.48 --> 3039.06] worship -[3039.06 --> 3039.92] volunteers and -[3039.92 --> 3040.46] others who -[3040.46 --> 3040.92] are helping -[3040.92 --> 3041.82] facilitate this -[3041.82 --> 3042.82] service so -[3042.82 --> 3043.16] that they -[3043.16 --> 3043.76] can then lead -[3043.76 --> 3044.28] us in -[3044.28 --> 3045.50] song as -[3045.50 --> 3045.96] we come -[3045.96 --> 3046.62] table by -[3046.62 --> 3047.42] table together. -[3047.70 --> 3047.94] So I am -[3047.94 --> 3048.06] going to -[3048.06 --> 3048.68] invite those -[3048.68 --> 3049.62] worship -[3049.62 --> 3050.16] leaders and -[3050.16 --> 3051.54] elders to -[3051.54 --> 3051.98] come up to -[3051.98 --> 3053.36] the front to -[3053.36 --> 3054.24] participate in -[3054.24 --> 3054.74] this table. -[3054.74 --> 3064.76] as they -[3064.76 --> 3065.08] are making -[3065.08 --> 3065.48] their way -[3065.48 --> 3065.86] forward. -[3066.68 --> 3067.12] Additionally, -[3067.34 --> 3067.64] if you would -[3067.64 --> 3068.76] like to meet -[3068.76 --> 3069.30] someone for -[3069.30 --> 3069.92] prayer, there -[3069.92 --> 3070.46] will be people -[3070.46 --> 3071.12] in the foyer -[3071.12 --> 3071.78] at the back -[3071.78 --> 3072.26] with yellow -[3072.26 --> 3073.06] name tags on -[3073.06 --> 3073.84] who will -[3073.84 --> 3074.42] meet you and -[3074.42 --> 3075.04] will pray with -[3075.04 --> 3075.58] you, for -[3075.58 --> 3076.16] you, over -[3076.16 --> 3077.32] you, either -[3077.32 --> 3077.90] before you -[3077.90 --> 3078.48] come up or -[3078.48 --> 3078.98] in lieu of -[3078.98 --> 3079.54] coming up. -[3080.06 --> 3080.86] Please share -[3080.86 --> 3081.64] with them your -[3081.64 --> 3083.20] thanksgivings and -[3083.20 --> 3084.26] your petitions. -[3084.74 --> 3090.92] body of -[3090.92 --> 3091.40] Christ given -[3091.40 --> 3091.80] for you. -[3095.46 --> 3096.02] Body of -[3096.02 --> 3096.48] Christ given -[3096.48 --> 3096.84] for you. -[3114.74 --> 3115.06] eats, works, won't -[3115.06 --> 3116.08] drink, and -[3116.08 --> 3116.58] when you -[3116.58 --> 3117.56] will be -[3117.78 --> 3124.62] número 45. -[3133.40 --> 3134.10] And you -[3134.10 --> 3134.80] visit your -[3134.80 --> 3135.24] example to -[3135.24 --> 3139.70] the -[3139.70 --> 3141.26] people in the -[3141.26 --> 3141.88] country who -[3141.88 --> 3145.26] eat and remember. -[3155.60 --> 3157.12] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[3160.74 --> 3162.12] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[3171.88 --> 3201.86] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[3201.88 --> 3231.86] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[3231.88 --> 3233.88] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[3233.88 --> 3237.88] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[3237.88 --> 3241.88] The blood of Christ shed for you. -[3241.88 --> 3243.88] Amen. -[3271.88 --> 3273.88] Amen. -[3301.88 --> 3303.88] Amen. -[3331.88 --> 3333.88] Amen. -[3361.88 --> 3363.88] Amen. -[3391.88 --> 3393.88] Amen. -[3421.88 --> 3423.88] Amen. -[3451.88 --> 3453.88] Amen. -[3481.88 --> 3483.88] Amen. -[3511.88 --> 3513.88] Amen. -[3513.88 --> 3515.88] Amen. -[3515.88 --> 3517.88] Amen. -[3517.88 --> 3532.88] I cast my mind to Calvary, where Jesus bled and died for me. -[3532.88 --> 3549.88] I see His wounds, His hands, His feet, my Savior on that cursed tree. -[3549.88 --> 3564.88] His body bound and drenched in tears, they laid Him down in Joseph's tomb. -[3564.88 --> 3579.88] The entrance sealed by heavy stone, Messiah still and all alone. -[3579.88 --> 3581.88] Amen. -[3581.88 --> 3589.88] O praise the name of the Lord our God. -[3589.88 --> 3596.88] O praise His name forevermore. -[3596.88 --> 3603.88] For endless days we will sing Your praise. -[3603.88 --> 3609.88] O Lord, O Lord our God. -[3609.88 --> 3610.88] O Lord our God. -[3610.88 --> 3612.88] O Lord our God. -[3612.88 --> 3614.88] O Lord our God. -[3614.88 --> 3626.88] Then on the third at break of dawn, the Son of Heaven rose again. -[3626.88 --> 3632.88] O trampled death, where is Your sting? -[3632.88 --> 3633.88] The angels roar. -[3633.88 --> 3634.88] The angels roar. -[3634.88 --> 3639.88] For Christ our King. -[3639.88 --> 3652.88] O praise the name of the Lord our God. -[3652.88 --> 3658.88] O praise His name forevermore. -[3658.88 --> 3665.88] For endless days we will sing Your praise. -[3665.88 --> 3671.88] O Lord, O Lord our God. -[3671.88 --> 3682.88] We shall return in rose of light. -[3682.88 --> 3689.88] The pleasing sun shall pierce the light. -[3689.88 --> 3697.88] And I will rise among the saints. -[3697.88 --> 3705.88] My gates shall stand on Jesus' face. -[3705.88 --> 3720.88] Theaving נ dramatic Palmet. -[3720.88 --> 3727.88] che'l抑รbirthCI Right little Tears. -[3727.88 --> 3728.88] Amen. -[3757.88 --> 3759.88] Amen. -[3787.88 --> 3789.88] Amen. -[3817.88 --> 3819.88] Amen. -[3847.88 --> 3849.88] Amen. -[3877.88 --> 3879.88] Amen. -[3907.88 --> 3909.88] Amen. -[3937.88 --> 3939.88] Amen. -[3967.88 --> 3969.88] Amen. -[3997.88 --> 3999.88] Amen. -[4027.88 --> 4029.88] Amen. -[4057.88 --> 4059.88] Amen. -[4087.88 --> 4089.88] Amen. -[4117.88 --> 4119.88] Amen. -[4147.88 --> 4149.88] Amen. -[4177.88 --> 4179.88] Amen. -[4179.88 --> 4195.84] God has given me and God reassure me and God bless You innegotiable peace as I have made from You. -[4195.84 --> 4202.78] For Word, phone, responsibility are Mahdi. -[4202.88 --> 4204.82] rig FEES -[4204.82 --> 4215.54] I would love to make one request and do one last song because this has been an anthem to our church for a bit. -[4216.34 --> 4217.66] I am not my own. -[4234.82 --> 4264.80] I am not my own. -[4264.82 --> 4267.82] I am not my own. -[4269.62 --> 4273.94] When the precious blood will set me free. -[4276.34 --> 4279.82] I am not my own. -[4281.20 --> 4283.86] But be loved. -[4284.40 --> 4286.82] Body and soul. -[4286.82 --> 4289.82] In my life. -[4290.70 --> 4292.82] And in death. -[4292.82 --> 4296.98] And to you Lord. -[4297.46 --> 4300.66] God is my Lord. -[4301.94 --> 4307.82] You deserve my life in such a way that without you. -[4308.70 --> 4311.78] Not I dare can fall from me. -[4311.78 --> 4313.78] I am not my own. -[4313.78 --> 4317.78] I am not my own. -[4317.78 --> 4319.78] I am not my own. -[4319.78 --> 4321.78] I am not my own. -[4321.78 --> 4326.78] All things work together for my salvation. -[4326.78 --> 4328.78] I am not my own. -[4328.78 --> 4331.78] I am not my own. -[4331.78 --> 4333.78] I am not my own. -[4333.78 --> 4334.78] But be loved. -[4334.78 --> 4337.78] Body and soul. -[4337.78 --> 4339.78] In my life. -[4339.78 --> 4341.78] In my life. -[4341.78 --> 4344.78] And in death. -[4344.78 --> 4347.78] To you Lord. -[4347.78 --> 4351.78] Christ my Lord. -[4351.78 --> 4352.78] You are. -[4352.78 --> 4354.78] For you Lord. -[4354.78 --> 4355.78] For you Lord. -[4355.78 --> 4356.78] You are. -[4356.78 --> 4358.78] For you Lord. -[4358.78 --> 4360.78] For you Lord. -[4360.78 --> 4361.78] Amen. -[4390.78 --> 4392.78] Amen. -[4420.78 --> 4422.78] Amen. -[4450.78 --> 4451.78] Amen. -[4451.78 --> 4459.40] To you, Lord, Christ my Lord. -[4470.08 --> 4478.40] As we sing that song, I'm mindful of what I am going into in this next week -[4478.40 --> 4481.72] and what some of you are going into in this next week. -[4482.06 --> 4485.74] I'm mindful that I don't know what you're going into this next week. -[4487.34 --> 4493.74] But we go as those over whom God says you are not your own. -[4494.42 --> 4494.94] You're bought. -[4496.06 --> 4499.14] You belong to your Savior, Jesus Christ. -[4500.08 --> 4503.30] I'm mindful, again, knowing what I'm going into this week, -[4503.40 --> 4505.02] knowing what some of you are going into this week, -[4505.06 --> 4507.58] and not knowing what others of you are going into this week. -[4507.58 --> 4511.62] I am mindful that this blessing that you are about to receive -[4511.62 --> 4515.54] is a word from God over whatever it is to come. -[4516.38 --> 4520.52] And so receive the blessing of God today. -[4522.04 --> 4524.96] God, go before you to lead you. -[4525.82 --> 4528.54] God, go behind you to protect you. -[4529.22 --> 4531.12] God, go beneath you to support you. -[4531.50 --> 4533.72] God, go beside you to befriend you. -[4534.64 --> 4537.06] Do not be afraid. -[4537.58 --> 4540.02] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[4540.18 --> 4541.92] Do not be afraid. -[4542.84 --> 4547.72] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[4548.86 --> 4549.18] Amen. -[4550.78 --> 4554.52] After our final song, I'm going to invite you to be seated -[4554.52 --> 4557.30] because there's one quick announcement that will be made, -[4557.38 --> 4558.66] an explanation of process, -[4558.78 --> 4563.66] before we move into the foyer for fellowship and time to spend there. -[4563.66 --> 4566.08] So after our song, please just take a quick seat. -[4566.08 --> 4566.94] So after our song, please us to jump on. -[4566.96 --> 4567.74] Amen. -[4567.94 --> 4568.24] Let's go. -[4568.40 --> 4568.92] Thank you. -[4569.02 --> 4569.54] God, I will not take you to pray every time. -[4569.72 --> 4569.76] I have a great idea. -[4569.82 --> 4570.58] Thank you. -[4574.62 --> 4575.12] Let's pray in thisう qui polarThey, -[4581.82 --> 4582.64] who will continue our time to row. -[4582.82 --> 4583.34] I will go. -[4583.34 --> 4585.24] Put your ground on watch among them. -[4585.24 --> 4585.44] Thank you. -[4585.52 --> 4585.62] Thank you. -[4585.68 --> 4586.84] God, I will lift you prepared. -[4587.00 --> 4588.34] I will get you prepared for the incomplete messages, -[4588.34 --> 4588.84] which will continue� Zhig. -[4588.96 --> 4589.88] And Matthew, -[4589.88 --> 4591.46] and he will continue to be taken -[4591.64 --> 4592.84] through the тр ind unaware keeps you Loud. -[4592.84 --> 4593.84] Amen. -[4622.84 --> 4624.84] Amen. -[4652.84 --> 4654.84] Amen. -[4682.84 --> 4683.84] Amen. -[4712.84 --> 4732.58] Good morning, congregation. -[4732.58 --> 4739.48] The reason for my being here is if you enter the sanctuary, you'll see all these little -[4739.48 --> 4741.74] flags and cake out there. -[4741.74 --> 4744.02] You're probably wondering what that's about. -[4744.02 --> 4750.34] We've invited the Agile family to be here about this time, and I noticed Talala's here. -[4750.34 --> 4756.76] But anyway, what I'm going to do is rather than wait around for them to show up, I just -[4756.76 --> 4764.94] want to say that as a refugee sponsorship committee that we've been so thankful that the Agile -[4764.94 --> 4770.14] family has achieved their citizenship, so they are now Canadian citizens. -[4770.14 --> 4773.58] And they also, each of them, have a passport. -[4773.58 --> 4779.52] So first of all, there's the family, Nawaf and Noof, and they came here with two children, -[4779.52 --> 4781.82] Mohammed and Ibrahim. -[4781.82 --> 4785.76] And since that time they've been here, they've had another one. -[4785.76 --> 4794.80] And so with citizenship, before you get that, you have a certain level of language understanding, -[4794.80 --> 4796.50] and they have achieved that. -[4796.50 --> 4801.18] And they've been to school, and all these different types of things. -[4801.18 --> 4805.00] And they've had another, they've had a baby while they're here. -[4805.00 --> 4808.44] Talal, come here. -[4808.44 --> 4809.44] Anyway. -[4809.44 --> 4824.44] Talal is totally hearing impaired, and so if you wonder why, he's my buddy, my buddy here. -[4824.44 --> 4830.02] But anyway, with, with, he came with his, with his brother Nawaf and Noof and their two, and -[4830.02 --> 4835.06] their two children, in September 2017. -[4835.06 --> 4841.06] And so, we're looking at almost six, seven years to, to get the process. -[4841.06 --> 4844.40] And as you know, through COVID and everything, everything slowed down. -[4844.40 --> 4848.10] But they have all the documentation now, including a passport. -[4848.10 --> 4852.10] As a matter of fact, Nawaf and Noof had saved up enough money. -[4852.10 --> 4857.06] And so once they had their passport, they flew to Kuwait to connect with their family over -[4857.06 --> 4858.06] there. -[4858.06 --> 4860.20] And so that was awesome. -[4860.20 --> 4863.42] That was awesome for them. -[4863.42 --> 4866.94] So Talal is the brother of Nawaf. -[4866.94 --> 4872.90] And Talal, as, when, when the committee we looked at, at sponsoring, we knew that he was -[4872.90 --> 4878.74] coming along, and we, we, we were certainly happy to have him come. -[4878.74 --> 4884.60] But he's been a wonderful friend, and a great addition to a Canadian society. -[4884.60 --> 4891.66] So Nawaf also works, has had a steady job right from the get-go, and with, actually with Eric -[4891.66 --> 4893.94] Paquette's company. -[4893.94 --> 4902.66] And Talal works for my son Eric's, and Tracy's company in the, in the landscape division. -[4902.66 --> 4907.66] Anyway, the interesting thing here is for, for Talal. -[4907.66 --> 4919.24] All right, what does that, so online he's discovered that there is a girl in Morocco who he's, he's -[4919.24 --> 4920.80] going to visit. -[4920.80 --> 4930.16] He leaves on July 2, he'll be flying over there, and then he'll be, everything's set up for him -[4930.16 --> 4933.96] to go with the girl, to, to get married. -[4933.96 --> 4939.16] And then he'll come back at the end of July, and then we'll begin the process of bringing -[4939.16 --> 4943.16] her over to, to, to Canada. -[4943.16 --> 4944.16] Anyway, let's. -[4944.16 --> 4950.16] What are you, what's your, uh, they're here? -[4950.16 --> 4952.16] They're coming. -[4952.16 --> 4953.16] They're coming. -[4953.16 --> 4962.16] Okay, so what we want to do, of course, is, uh, we want to, uh, serve you cake when you're, -[4962.16 --> 4963.16] you're out there. -[4963.16 --> 4970.16] Many of you have had access, many of you have known, have been supporters, uh, of, for when -[4970.16 --> 4971.16] we began. -[4971.16 --> 4976.16] And so it, it's going to be nice just to, uh, explain that, uh, to them. -[4976.16 --> 4981.16] You, you're just going to have to wait, uh, 15 seconds. -[4981.16 --> 4982.16] Okay, here comes Noof. -[4982.16 --> 4983.16] All right. -[4983.16 --> 4984.16] All right. -[4984.16 --> 4985.16] All right. -[4985.16 --> 4986.16] Good morning. -[4986.16 --> 4987.16] Good morning. -[4987.16 --> 4988.16] Good morning. -[4988.16 --> 4989.16] Hello, Noof. -[4989.16 --> 4990.16] How are you? -[4990.16 --> 4991.16] And, Noof? -[4991.16 --> 5006.16] And, you know, so this, this, this fellow here, he was four, I think, when he came here, -[5006.16 --> 5007.16] uh, Canada, right? -[5007.16 --> 5008.16] So how are, how, how are you now? -[5008.16 --> 5009.16] How old are you now? -[5009.16 --> 5010.16] How old are you now? -[5010.16 --> 5011.16] How old are you now? -[5011.16 --> 5012.16] Ten. -[5012.16 --> 5013.16] Ten. -[5013.16 --> 5014.16] There you go. -[5014.16 --> 5021.16] Seven years ago, they came, Noof and Noof, we picked them up at YVR, and, uh, Ibrahim was -[5021.16 --> 5026.16] just a little guy, and since that time, Omar, Omar came. -[5026.16 --> 5035.16] So, um, and these boys are in school, and they're doing really, really well, but you know what -[5035.16 --> 5042.16] they, what, uh, do you think they, uh, they're supporting, uh, the Vancouver Canucks? -[5042.16 --> 5047.16] Or, or are they into soccer? -[5047.16 --> 5048.16] Football. -[5048.16 --> 5049.16] Football. -[5049.16 --> 5050.16] Yeah. -[5050.16 --> 5054.16] These boys can really, really kick a ball around, right, Ibrahim? -[5054.16 --> 5055.16] Yeah, for sure. -[5055.16 --> 5058.16] And then, Omar, how old is Omar? -[5058.16 --> 5059.16] Four. -[5059.16 --> 5060.16] Four. -[5060.16 --> 5062.16] Four, yes. -[5062.16 --> 5067.16] So, I gave a little speech about you, and about your history, and about when you came, -[5067.16 --> 5073.16] September 2017, and how you had to take English lessons, and you had to find jobs, and make -[5073.16 --> 5078.16] your way, and how your kids are all doing well at school, and everything so far is going -[5078.16 --> 5082.16] right, and you've traveled to Kuwait and Iraq to see your family. -[5082.16 --> 5083.16] Awesome. -[5083.16 --> 5084.16] Just so awesome. -[5084.16 --> 5088.16] But we're very thankful that we could support you, and so there's going to be some cake, -[5088.16 --> 5091.16] cake out there, and, uh, so much. -[5091.16 --> 5097.16] So, um, yeah, anyway, we just wanted, we're very happy for you, and we just wanted, now -[5097.16 --> 5099.16] that you were a Canadian citizen. -[5099.16 --> 5104.16] So, you know what we're going to try to do, is we're going to try and sing, uh, O Canada. -[5104.16 --> 5105.16] Alright? -[5105.16 --> 5106.16] Do you know, do you know O Canada? -[5106.16 --> 5107.16] Do you know that song? -[5107.16 --> 5108.16] Let's go for it. -[5108.16 --> 5109.16] Oh. -[5109.16 --> 5110.16] Oh. -[5110.16 --> 5112.16] Oh, let's stand up. -[5112.16 --> 5113.16] Hat off. -[5113.16 --> 5127.16] Oh, Canada, our home and native land. -[5127.16 --> 5137.16] True, great, true love, when all our songs commend. -[5137.16 --> 5147.16] And, though in hearts we see thee rise, the true Lord strong and free. -[5147.16 --> 5156.16] From far and wide, O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. -[5156.16 --> 5157.16] O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. -[5157.16 --> 5163.16] O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. -[5163.16 --> 5164.16] O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. -[5164.16 --> 5170.16] O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. -[5170.16 --> 5171.16] O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. -[5171.16 --> 5177.16] O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. -[5177.16 --> 5187.16] O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. -[5187.16 --> 5188.16] Aw Theory. -[5188.16 --> 5193.16] O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. -[5193.16 --> 5194.16] O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. -[5194.16 --> 5195.16] Okay? -[5195.16 --> 5196.16] O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. -[5196.16 --> 5197.16] oxyl Deligy from Gabлам thousand and ㅇ logo. -[5197.16 --> 5198.16] O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. -[5198.16 --> 5199.16] O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. -[5199.16 --> 5200.16] O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. -[5200.16 --> 5201.16] O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. -[5201.16 --> 5202.16] O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. -[5202.16 --> 5203.16] كن to say thy praise and behold. -[5203.16 --> 5205.16] O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. -[5205.16 --> 5206.62] O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. -[5206.62 --> 5207.66] How am I standing on guard for thee. -[5207.66 --> 5208.66] What do i differ? -[5208.66 --> 5209.66] Today, I'm with fire you, I am from West Africa. -[5209.66 --> 5215.66] We stand on guard for thee. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, March 16, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, March 16, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 51838e766b1bb1bdf38d999740487b1ed20c18ee..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, March 16, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,118 +0,0 @@ -• Reciting a prayer-like statement about following and trusting God -• Praising God as light, refuge, strength, and faithfulness -• Expressing awe and humility in God's presence -• Describing God's majesty, glory, and power over creation -• Welcoming guests to worship service and introducing the pastor, Chris -• Announcing a need for drivers to pick up the Mexico mission team from the airport -• Invitation to worship and prayer -• Call to pass the peace of Christ among congregation -• Reading from Revelation 15 -• Series of hymns and songs praising God's holiness, majesty, and salvation -• Reflection on God's power and glory -• Invitation to call God "Father" and come before Him in worship -• Worshiping the holy God -• Confessing sins and seeking forgiveness -• Expressing love for Jesus through prayer and song -• Baptism as a symbol of Christ's life, death, and resurrection -• Infants being baptized as covenant children -• Adoption and new identity in Christ through baptism -• The speaker leads a ceremony to baptize Jed. -• Daniel and Ismay invite the congregation to ask two questions and make a promise to support Jed's Christian faith. -• The congregation promises to instruct Jed in the Christian faith, lead him by example, and support his life of Christian discipleship. -• Many children present are asked to come forward for the baptism ceremony. -• The speaker explains the significance of baptism as a symbol of what Jesus has done with his blood to wash away sin. -• Daniel and Ismay baptize Jed in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. -• Welcoming new members into the church family -• Teaching and spreading the gospel of God's love -• Setting an example of Christian faith and character -• Baptism as a sign and seal of adoption -• Journeying with Jed in his pursuit of faith -• The hope that Jed will one day make a profession of faith -• Faithfulness and compassion of God -• Provision and care from God in all times and circumstances -• Praise and worship of God's faithfulness, mercy, and love -• Request for pardon from sin and peace -• Need for guidance, strength, and hope -• Expression of gratitude for God's blessings and presence -• Offering and giving to the church budget and benevolence -• The congregation was informed about two offering opportunities: a marked envelope for benevolence and another for unspecified purposes -• A song, "Who Am I", was sung during the offering, emphasizing identity in Christ and God's love -• Discussion of a word called perspective, which is a different way of looking at things, and how it can change over time -• An example of changing perspective was given through an analogy involving the monkey bars at a playground -• Pastor Kevin was invited to come forward to demonstrate how his perspective has changed as he got older -• Discussion about a person's age and appearance -• Reflections on the speaker's own perspective changes after waking up -• Changes in love for others as people grow older -• Explanation of the kingdom of God and its new perspective when seen from heaven -• Story of the mustard seed and examples from Jesus' teachings -• Introduction to upcoming town hall meeting about Pastor Kevin's future at the church -• Discussion of council member nominations and upcoming events, including a calendar for nominations -• Update on Pastor Chris and Pastor Kevin's work at the church -• Personal testimony by Peter about the men's meeting and discussion of prayer needs in the community -• Discussion of current events and world news -• Canadian politics (new prime minister, Trudeau's resignation) -• US tariffs and their impact on anxiety in the church community -• Conflict and hope for peace in Ukraine, Russia, Israel, Hamas, and Gaza -• Death and the return of Christ, a discussion from last week's sermon -• Needs in the congregation: - + Al's disintegrating disc disease (prayer for pain relief and mobility) - + Joe's hospitalization after two strokes (prayer for healing and therapy) - + Young children who are sick and their parents' need for care and stress relief - + Ongoing mental health issues, addictions, and family dynamics - + Cancer affecting several families in the church community -• Prayer request for Anne-Marie's heart valve repair and Judy Versteg's upcoming operation -• Reading from 1 Thessalonians 5, discussing the importance of being aware of and prepared for the day of the Lord -• Comparing the attitude of waiting to a situation where one is waiting to leave at a set time, highlighting the importance of being eager and ready rather than grumbling or indifferent -• Interpreting Paul's message as an invitation to be armed and ready for the return of Jesus Christ -• Reviewing previous discussion on the return of Jesus and its implications for those alive and deceased. -• The idea that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night is a common teaching among the apostles -• This concept was taught by Jesus himself, mentioned in Matthew 24 -• Similar imagery can be found in 2 Peter 3 and Revelation 3 and 16 -• The Pax Romana or gospel of peace was a declared message during this time, emphasizing the idea that Rome brought peace and security -• Coins and monuments from the time period feature the image of peace, such as the Pax on the silver cystophorus coin -• Paul's letters to the Thessalonians emphasize that they already know the answer to when Christ will return, but not how it will happen -• The Pax Romana, a period of relative peace and stability in the Roman Empire -• Excavated altar pillars in Palestrina with inscriptions "Pax Sacrum" (Holy Peace) and "Securitas Sacrum" (Holy Security) -• Paul's reference to people saying "peace and safety" as a slogan or word pairing for the Thessalonians -• The Thessalonia region as the capital of Macedonian province, with its regional governor and proconsul of the empire -• Paul's warning that the gospel of Rome is illusory and short-lived, and that destruction will come upon them -• The importance of an expectant church being filled with passion and motivation, rather than indifference or panic -• Paul's exhortations in 1 Thessalonians 4:10 and 2 Thessalonians 3 to work with their hands and not be dependent on anyone, as well as warnings against idleness and disruption. -• The dangers of indifference to faith -• How the way one lives their faith affects others -• The difference between indifference and real faith -• The consequences of being indifferent to God's return and judgment -• The importance of taking a stance or making a decision about one's faith -• The importance of being motivated to declare the truth of God's gospel and make a difference in people's lives -• The contrast between indifference and motivation, and how our actions can have consequences -• The call to be different from the world, with gentleness and respect, rooted in love for God and His world -• The reminder that we know more about God than we do about our own lives, and that this knowledge brings peace and security -• The trust in God's goodness and sovereignty, even when life is uncertain or difficult -• Motivation and peace through faith in God's character -• Expectation and passion for the return of Jesus Christ -• Purpose and meaning in life due to understanding of God's sovereignty -• Importance of living expectantly and passionately despite struggles -• Invitation to come and see God at work -• Raising up future generations of believers, leaders, and missionaries -• Life and death, resurrection, and exaltation -• Jesus' return to judge the living and dead -• Being armed and ready for His coming -• Identity and purpose as children of light and day -• Motivation to not be indifferent to darkness -• Spiritual reality of being asleep apart from Christ -• Being alive in Christ and having eternal life now -• The importance of believing in Jesus for eternal life -• Jesus' message is about quality of life, not just quantity -• The quality of life mentioned in the New Testament (e.g. Thessalonians) emphasizes living a life with faith, love, and hope as armor against spiritual battles -• Life is a battle between light and darkness, heaven and hell, and we must be prepared and equipped to live accordingly -• The temptation to choose ease and safety over real living and mission-critical way of living is strong -• We are called to "armor up" with the power of the gospel and live as people of the light. -• Invocation and prayer for God's light to shine through them -• Praise of God's goodness and help in daily life -• Reference to Jesus and the gospel -• Lyrics from a hymn (multiple instances) -• Blessing and commission to go as children of the light, with God's presence and guidance -• Final prayers and expressions of gratitude -• Repeated thank yous at irregular intervals -• A single "I'm sorry" after a string of similar phrases -• Transition to a new phrase ("Yeah") and then a mention of having an idea or creativity ("got a creative") \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, March 16, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, March 16, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index dd177fa12317c21852b5dbacc89c88b996607ad3..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, March 16, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1850 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 15.66] Where you go, I'll go. Where you stay, I'll stay. When you move, I'll move. I will follow. -[15.66 --> 42.00] All your ways are good, all your ways are sure. I will trust in you alone. Higher than my sight, high above my life. -[42.00 --> 46.98] I will trust in you alone. -[51.36 --> 61.52] Where you go, I'll go. Where you stay, I'll stay. When you move, I'll move. I will follow you. -[61.52 --> 71.62] Who you love, I'll love. How you serve, I'll serve. This life I lose. I will follow you. -[72.00 --> 77.00] I will follow you. -[81.00 --> 91.00] Light into the world. Light into my life. I will live for you alone. -[91.00 --> 106.00] Light into my life. I will trust in you alone. You're the one I seek. Knowing I will find. All I need in you alone. In you alone. -[106.84 --> 116.14] Where you go, I'll go. Where you stay, I'll stay. When you move, I'll move. I will follow you. -[116.14 --> 133.14] Who you love, I love. How you serve, I serve. This life I lose. I will follow you. I will follow you. -[133.14 --> 152.14] Yeah. In you, there's life everlasting. In you, there's freedom for my soul. In you, there's joy, unending joy. -[152.14 --> 176.14] And I will follow. Where you go, I'll go. Where you stay, I'll stay. When you move, I'll move. I will follow. Who you love, I'll love. How you serve, I'll serve. If this life I lose, I will follow. -[176.14 --> 197.14] Where you go, I'll go. Where you stay, I'll stay. When you move, I'll move. I will follow you. Who you love, I'll love. How you serve, I'll serve. If this life I lose, I will follow you. -[197.14 --> 216.14] I will follow you. Yeah. I will follow you. Yeah. I will follow you. Yeah. -[216.14 --> 246.12] Thank you. -[246.14 --> 276.12] Thank you. -[276.14 --> 278.14] Thank you. -[306.14 --> 308.14] Thank you. -[336.14 --> 338.14] Thank you. -[366.14 --> 368.14] Thank you. -[396.14 --> 398.14] Thank you. -[398.14 --> 400.14] Thank you. -[400.14 --> 402.14] Thank you. -[402.14 --> 406.14] Thank you. -[406.14 --> 408.14] Thank you. -[408.14 --> 410.14] Thank you. -[410.14 --> 420.14] Let me arise, open my eyes, open my eyes -[420.14 --> 427.24] I lift my hands to believe again -[427.24 --> 432.82] You are my refuge, you are my strength -[432.82 --> 438.74] As I pour out my heart, these things I remember -[438.74 --> 444.42] You are faithful, God, forever -[444.42 --> 450.10] I lift my hands to believe again -[450.10 --> 455.76] You are my refuge, you are my strength -[455.76 --> 461.58] As I pour out my heart, these things I remember -[461.58 --> 468.72] You are faithful, God, you are faithful, God -[468.72 --> 470.16] Forever -[470.16 --> 481.72] Let faith arise -[481.72 --> 487.72] Let faith arise -[487.72 --> 489.72] Let faith arise -[489.72 --> 502.72] Let faith arise -[502.72 --> 504.72] Let faith arise -[504.72 --> 508.72] Let faith arise -[508.72 --> 512.72] Let faith arise -[512.72 --> 516.72] Let faith arise -[516.72 --> 520.72] Your majesty of heaven -[520.72 --> 526.72] Your glory fills the skies -[526.72 --> 531.72] Light of the world -[531.72 --> 537.72] You are Lord of all -[537.72 --> 543.28] Humbled by your presence -[543.28 --> 549.68] Amazed by who you are -[549.68 --> 554.80] Nothing compares -[554.80 --> 561.16] You are Lord of all -[561.16 --> 567.72] To you, the nations bow down -[567.72 --> 573.64] To you, creation cries out -[573.64 --> 576.36] Majesty -[576.36 --> 584.18] All things you hold together -[584.18 --> 589.52] Your name will stand forever -[589.52 --> 593.32] Majesty -[593.32 --> 596.08] You are -[596.08 --> 598.96] Majesty -[598.96 --> 607.70] Merciful and mighty -[607.70 --> 615.16] My heart is over when -[615.16 --> 618.96] You stand alone -[618.96 --> 624.72] You are Lord of all -[624.72 --> 631.96] To you, the nations bow down -[631.96 --> 638.52] To you, creation cries out -[638.52 --> 642.32] Majesty -[642.32 --> 644.32] Majesty -[644.32 --> 649.08] All things you hold together -[649.08 --> 654.32] Your name will stand forever -[654.32 --> 658.32] Majesty -[658.32 --> 661.00] You are -[661.00 --> 662.96] Majesty -[662.96 --> 670.64] Majesty -[670.64 --> 672.36] itas -[672.36 --> 672.84] films -[673.68 --> 674.26] I just need the dock to -[674.26 --> 674.64] roy -[692.96 --> 715.72] Here we go. There we go. Good morning. Welcome to worship. A special welcome if you are a guest -[715.72 --> 722.30] with us this morning. An extra special welcome if you are a guest because of Jed's baptism. -[722.96 --> 729.98] We are excited to see God at work in our midst here in our worship together. My name is Chris. I'm one of -[729.98 --> 735.72] the pastors here at Langley Emanuel and it's my privilege along with these others on stage to lead -[735.72 --> 740.88] in our shared worship together this morning. Before we begin we have just one announcement -[740.88 --> 747.10] and we've been making this announcement for the past couple weeks now. We are looking for drivers -[747.10 --> 756.20] to pick up the Mexico mission team when they return from their trip on March 25. And so that -[756.20 --> 763.78] is a drive to Seattle airport to pick them up. They will be ready to be picked up around 5 p.m. -[763.78 --> 772.16] And so we currently have seats for 14 people. We need seats for 22. And so that's one or two more -[772.16 --> 778.42] drivers depending on your vehicle. And so please if you're able to do that on the 25th connect with -[778.42 --> 784.72] either myself or Pastor Kevin. And sooner is better. At least that will help our anxiety in ensuring that -[784.72 --> 789.44] we can get everyone home. And that's the only announcement that we have this morning. And so I'm -[789.44 --> 795.94] going to invite you as you're able to stand. We come together in worship of our good God who meets us -[795.94 --> 805.18] in this place, who welcomes us, and who greets us. In this season of Lent as we approach the cross of -[805.18 --> 812.50] our Lord Jesus Christ we do so prayerfully, reflectively, we do so in worship, reflecting on -[812.50 --> 819.50] who God is and what he has done for us. And so let's enter this moment of worship together -[819.50 --> 825.38] met by God. Following God's greeting I'm going to invite you to turn to those around you, welcome -[825.38 --> 830.34] them into our shared worship together this morning by passing the peace of Christ, by saying good -[830.34 --> 838.82] morning, and offering them a greeting as well. Receive the greeting of our God. Grace, mercy, and peace to -[838.82 --> 844.02] you. From God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, through the -[844.02 --> 847.38] presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. -[868.82 --> 896.84] From Revelation 15. Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, -[896.84 --> 905.56] King of the ages. Who will not fear you, O Lord, and bring glory to your name? For you alone are holy. -[905.56 --> 908.76] All nations will come and worship you. -[908.76 --> 924.04] Praise is rising. Eyes are turning to you. We turn to you. -[924.04 --> 935.54] Praise is rising. Eyes are turning to you. We turn to you. -[935.54 --> 951.54] Praise is rising. We turn to you. Hope is stirring. Lives are yearning for you. We long for you. -[951.54 --> 966.54] Cause when we see you. We find strength to face the day. In your presence, all our fears are washed away. -[966.54 --> 969.54] Washed away. -[969.54 --> 985.54] Hosanna, Hosanna. You are the God who saves us. Worthy of all our praises. -[985.54 --> 998.54] Hosanna, Hosanna. Come have your way among us. Welcome to here, Lord Jesus. -[998.54 --> 1003.54] Hosanna, Hosanna. Come have your way among us. We turn to you. -[1003.54 --> 1017.54] Hear the sound of hearts returning to you. Return to you. -[1017.54 --> 1025.54] In your kingdom, broken lives are in you. -[1025.54 --> 1044.54] You make us in you. You make us in you. Cause when we see you, we find strength to face the day. In your presence, all our fears are washed away. -[1044.54 --> 1047.54] You are the God who saves us. -[1047.54 --> 1063.54] You are the God who saves us. Worthy of all our praises. -[1063.54 --> 1070.58] Hosanna, Hosanna -[1070.58 --> 1074.82] Come have your way among us -[1074.82 --> 1078.04] We welcome you here, Lord Jesus -[1078.04 --> 1085.60] Hosanna, Hosanna -[1085.60 --> 1090.00] You are the God who saves us -[1090.00 --> 1093.26] Worthy of all our praises -[1093.26 --> 1100.80] Hosanna, Hosanna -[1100.80 --> 1105.10] Come have your way among us -[1105.10 --> 1108.50] We welcome you here, Lord Jesus -[1123.26 --> 1131.64] Who else commands all the hosts of heaven? -[1131.64 --> 1138.14] Who else can make every king bow down? -[1138.80 --> 1143.84] Who else can whisper and darkness trembles? -[1143.84 --> 1149.38] Only a holy God -[1149.38 --> 1156.38] What other beauty demands such praises? -[1156.38 --> 1162.38] What other splendor outshines the sun? -[1162.38 --> 1167.92] What other majesty rules with justice? -[1167.92 --> 1173.92] Only a holy God -[1173.92 --> 1180.40] Come and behold Him -[1180.40 --> 1184.74] The one and the only -[1184.74 --> 1189.50] Cry out, sing holy -[1189.50 --> 1193.46] Forever a holy God -[1193.46 --> 1198.46] Come and worship the holy God -[1198.46 --> 1212.80] What other glory consumes like fire -[1212.80 --> 1218.00] What other power can raise the dead -[1218.00 --> 1225.54] What other name remains undefeated? -[1225.54 --> 1227.54] Only a holy God -[1227.54 --> 1235.08] Come and behold Him -[1235.08 --> 1236.08] Come and behold Him -[1236.08 --> 1239.08] The one and the only -[1239.08 --> 1244.08] Cry out, sing holy -[1244.08 --> 1253.62] Forever a holy God -[1253.62 --> 1255.62] Come and behold Him -[1255.62 --> 1257.62] Come and behold Him -[1257.62 --> 1260.16] The one and the only -[1260.16 --> 1266.16] Cry out, sing holy -[1266.16 --> 1269.16] Forever a holy God -[1269.16 --> 1272.16] Come and worship the holy God -[1272.16 --> 1275.16] Come and worship the holy God -[1275.16 --> 1299.32] Who else can rescue me from my failing? -[1299.32 --> 1304.70] Who else would offer His only Son? -[1305.16 --> 1309.20] Who else invites me to call Him -[1309.20 --> 1311.70] Who else invites me to call Him Father? -[1311.70 --> 1313.70] Only a holy God -[1313.70 --> 1316.70] Only a holy God -[1316.70 --> 1320.70] Only my holy God -[1320.70 --> 1321.70] Only my holy God -[1321.70 --> 1326.70] Come and behold Him -[1326.70 --> 1330.70] The one and the only -[1330.70 --> 1332.24] Cry out, sing holy -[1332.24 --> 1335.24] Cry out, sing holy -[1335.24 --> 1336.24] Forever a holy God -[1336.24 --> 1337.24] Forever a holy God -[1337.24 --> 1343.24] Come and worship the holy God -[1343.24 --> 1347.24] Come and behold Him -[1347.24 --> 1348.24] Come and behold Him -[1348.24 --> 1352.24] The one and the only -[1352.24 --> 1353.24] Cry out, sing holy -[1353.24 --> 1354.24] Forever a holy God -[1354.24 --> 1355.24] Cry out, sing holy -[1355.24 --> 1357.78] Forever a holy God -[1357.78 --> 1361.78] Forever a holy God -[1361.78 --> 1365.78] Come and worship the holy God -[1365.78 --> 1375.32] Please bow your head with me as we pray -[1375.32 --> 1378.32] Gracious God -[1378.32 --> 1381.72] Our sins are too heavy to carry -[1381.72 --> 1383.78] They're too real to hide -[1383.78 --> 1386.26] And too deep to wade through -[1386.26 --> 1390.36] Father, forgive the sins that we fear to name -[1390.36 --> 1393.88] The guilt that our hearts struggle to bear -[1393.88 --> 1398.14] And our thoughts that draw us far from you -[1398.14 --> 1402.12] Living God, we confess these burdens to you -[1402.12 --> 1403.76] In this time of silent prayer -[1403.76 --> 1404.82] Amen -[1433.76 --> 1444.20] Lord, set us free from our past -[1444.20 --> 1446.74] and reveal to us the glorious future -[1446.74 --> 1449.96] in which you have ushered in through your Son, Jesus Christ. -[1450.68 --> 1454.18] Grant us grace to grow more and more in your likeness and image. -[1455.40 --> 1456.30] Jesus, we love thee. -[1456.80 --> 1458.86] And we pray this in your name. Amen. -[1463.76 --> 1465.76] Amen. -[1479.76 --> 1486.64] My Jesus, I love thee. -[1486.64 --> 1491.48] I know thou art mine. -[1491.48 --> 1501.76] For thee all the fallings of sin I resign. -[1502.42 --> 1507.24] My gracious Redeemer, -[1507.64 --> 1511.48] my Savior art thou. -[1511.48 --> 1522.76] If ever I love thee, my Jesus is now. -[1522.76 --> 1535.76] I love thee because thou hast first loved me -[1535.76 --> 1545.76] And purchased my pardon on Calvary's tree. -[1545.76 --> 1555.76] I love thee for wearing the thorns on thy crown. -[1555.76 --> 1566.76] If ever I love thee, my Jesus is now. -[1566.76 --> 1579.76] I love thee in life, I will love thee in death. -[1579.76 --> 1590.76] And praise thee as long as thou lendest me prayer. -[1590.76 --> 1592.76] And say when the dead do not die, -[1592.76 --> 1596.76] And say when the dead do not die, -[1596.76 --> 1600.76] Hold on my crown. -[1600.76 --> 1611.76] If ever I love thee, my Jesus is now. -[1611.76 --> 1623.76] In that chance of glory and endless delight, -[1623.76 --> 1632.76] I'll never adore thee in heaven so bright. -[1632.76 --> 1644.76] I'll sing with a clitoring crown on my crown. -[1644.76 --> 1654.76] If ever I love thee, my Jesus is now. -[1654.76 --> 1677.76] I love thee, my Jesus is now. -[1677.76 --> 1684.76] We are a moment, you are forever. -[1684.76 --> 1691.76] Lord of the ages, God before time. -[1691.76 --> 1698.76] We are a paper, you are eternal. -[1698.76 --> 1699.76] Lord of the ages, O Lord forever. -[1699.76 --> 1705.76] Love ever lastly, reigning on high. -[1708.76 --> 1714.76] Holy, holy Lord God Almighty, -[1714.76 --> 1721.76] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain. -[1721.76 --> 1729.98] Highest praises, honor and glory -[1729.98 --> 1736.74] Be unto your name -[1736.74 --> 1743.86] Be unto your name -[1743.86 --> 1747.60] We are the broken -[1747.60 --> 1751.74] You are the healer -[1751.74 --> 1755.00] Jesus, Redeemer -[1755.00 --> 1758.22] Mighty to save -[1758.22 --> 1762.54] You are the love song -[1762.54 --> 1765.42] We'll sing forever -[1765.42 --> 1769.64] Vowing before you -[1769.64 --> 1774.50] Blessing your name -[1774.50 --> 1778.14] Holy, Holy -[1778.14 --> 1781.04] Lord God Almighty -[1781.04 --> 1788.04] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[1788.68 --> 1795.04] Highest praises, honor and glory -[1795.04 --> 1800.52] Be unto your name -[1800.52 --> 1807.52] Be I to your name -[1807.52 --> 1808.52] Be I to your name -[1808.52 --> 1809.52] Be I to your name -[1809.52 --> 1811.52] Be I to your name -[1811.52 --> 1815.52] Holy, Holy Lord God Almighty -[1815.52 --> 1821.52] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[1821.52 --> 1822.88] say -[1822.88 --> 1824.88] highest -[1824.88 --> 1826.34] praises -[1826.34 --> 1829.58] honor and glory -[1829.58 --> 1832.00] be unto -[1832.00 --> 1835.76] your name -[1835.76 --> 1838.72] be unto -[1838.72 --> 1842.72] your name -[1842.72 --> 1845.72] be unto -[1845.72 --> 1848.72] your name -[1851.52 --> 1855.18] you may be seated -[1855.18 --> 1878.36] this morning in our shared life together we have the opportunity to celebrate the baptism of one of our little ones -[1878.36 --> 1888.76] the water that we use here doesn't cleanse from sin but symbolizes for us jesus life death and resurrection -[1888.76 --> 1894.04] the water seals for us the promise of forgiveness -[1894.04 --> 1904.48] so though born with a sinful nature this child is offered god's promise of forgiveness and life in the holy spirit -[1904.48 --> 1908.14] and so in our church tradition -[1908.14 --> 1910.04] we baptize infants -[1910.04 --> 1911.98] not out of superstition -[1911.98 --> 1913.82] but as covenant -[1913.82 --> 1914.80] children -[1914.80 --> 1917.32] god's covenant with abraham -[1917.32 --> 1920.62] was sealed by circumcision in genesis 15 -[1920.62 --> 1924.28] and that now finds its sign in baptism -[1924.28 --> 1926.36] as we read in colossians 2 -[1926.36 --> 1930.82] and through it the triune god marks our adoption -[1930.82 --> 1933.18] and new identity in christ -[1933.18 --> 1936.18] a promise extended to our children -[1936.18 --> 1938.18] in acts 2 verse 39 -[1938.18 --> 1941.28] and because god has called them holy -[1941.28 --> 1942.90] god has set them apart -[1942.90 --> 1945.02] we read that in first corinthians 7 -[1945.02 --> 1948.68] and so baptism obeys christ's command -[1948.68 --> 1950.90] it aligns with church -[1950.90 --> 1952.20] and our history -[1952.20 --> 1954.66] and it signifies our inclusion -[1954.66 --> 1956.22] in god's covenant -[1956.22 --> 1957.20] community -[1957.20 --> 1958.30] and today -[1958.30 --> 1960.26] we celebrate and pray -[1960.26 --> 1962.82] that jed would embrace these promises -[1962.82 --> 1967.48] and follow jesus as his savior throughout his entire life -[1967.48 --> 1969.58] to do that we're going to ask -[1969.58 --> 1971.86] daniel and ismay to come to the front -[1971.86 --> 1974.64] with whomever is coming up with them -[1974.64 --> 1978.20] olivia rolled her eyes at me -[1978.20 --> 1979.62] i want everyone to know that -[1979.62 --> 1986.94] so we're going to ask you guys just two questions -[1986.94 --> 1990.58] and then daniel and ismay invite you to respond by saying -[1990.58 --> 1992.12] we do with god's help -[1992.12 --> 1995.20] do you believe that your children -[1995.20 --> 1996.86] those sinful by nature -[1996.86 --> 1999.06] are received by god in christ -[1999.06 --> 2000.44] as members of his covenant -[2000.44 --> 2002.30] and therefore ought to be baptized -[2002.30 --> 2003.62] two -[2003.62 --> 2006.56] do you promise in reliance on the holy spirit -[2006.56 --> 2008.62] and with the help of the christian community -[2008.62 --> 2010.62] to do all in your power -[2010.62 --> 2012.84] to instruct jed in the christian faith -[2012.84 --> 2014.92] and to lead him by your example -[2014.92 --> 2017.28] into a life of christian discipleship -[2017.28 --> 2018.28] what is your answer -[2018.28 --> 2023.46] we'll get there guys -[2023.46 --> 2025.18] this is how many tries now -[2025.18 --> 2033.32] we means together -[2033.32 --> 2038.32] let's picture that togetherness for a moment -[2038.32 --> 2039.34] our lord jesus said -[2039.34 --> 2040.98] let the little children come to me -[2040.98 --> 2042.06] and do not hinder them -[2042.06 --> 2044.34] for the kingdom of god belongs to such as these -[2044.34 --> 2046.10] so i want to invite all the kids -[2046.10 --> 2047.58] who are here this morning -[2047.58 --> 2049.20] just to come and grab a seat -[2049.20 --> 2051.04] nice and close up here in the front -[2051.04 --> 2053.50] so that you can see what's going on -[2053.50 --> 2064.18] many of you who are coming up here -[2064.18 --> 2066.24] were also baptized -[2066.24 --> 2068.68] many of you here in this church -[2068.68 --> 2071.30] and i wonder how many of you remember that -[2071.30 --> 2074.20] karis you remember your own baptism -[2074.20 --> 2075.60] amazing -[2075.60 --> 2079.24] that's fantastic -[2079.24 --> 2081.32] if you don't remember your baptism -[2081.32 --> 2082.46] what i would love for you to do -[2082.46 --> 2083.82] is talk to your parents -[2083.82 --> 2085.68] or your parent after church -[2085.68 --> 2086.10] and be like -[2086.10 --> 2086.72] what was that like -[2086.72 --> 2087.90] what did we do -[2087.90 --> 2090.00] and if you haven't been baptized -[2090.00 --> 2091.30] also talk to your parents -[2091.30 --> 2091.64] and be like -[2091.64 --> 2091.86] hey -[2091.86 --> 2092.78] what's up -[2092.78 --> 2094.82] why haven't we done that -[2094.82 --> 2097.42] we're going to -[2097.42 --> 2099.64] come and baptize -[2099.64 --> 2100.56] jed this morning -[2100.56 --> 2101.26] and to do that -[2101.26 --> 2102.02] we're going to use -[2102.02 --> 2103.26] some water -[2103.26 --> 2104.42] just as -[2104.42 --> 2105.50] we use water -[2105.50 --> 2106.50] to wash away -[2106.50 --> 2107.16] our bodies -[2107.16 --> 2108.12] so -[2108.12 --> 2108.86] this water -[2108.86 --> 2110.14] is a picture for us -[2110.14 --> 2111.78] of what jesus has done -[2111.78 --> 2113.12] with his blood -[2113.12 --> 2114.40] in washing us -[2114.40 --> 2115.38] and making us new -[2115.38 --> 2116.66] so i invite you to -[2116.66 --> 2117.78] present jed -[2117.78 --> 2118.62] for baptism -[2118.62 --> 2131.62] jed wolf howling -[2131.62 --> 2133.48] i baptize you in the name -[2133.48 --> 2134.06] of the father -[2134.06 --> 2136.24] and of the son -[2136.24 --> 2138.56] and of the holy spirit -[2138.56 --> 2139.82] amen -[2139.82 --> 2147.36] amen -[2147.36 --> 2150.66] even as we baptize jed -[2150.66 --> 2151.34] this morning -[2151.34 --> 2152.62] and his parents -[2152.62 --> 2153.38] have made a promise -[2153.38 --> 2155.08] this is a covenant -[2155.08 --> 2156.08] ceremony -[2156.08 --> 2157.28] that means we do this -[2157.28 --> 2157.96] all together -[2157.96 --> 2159.14] and so you also -[2159.14 --> 2160.84] as part of this covenant -[2160.84 --> 2162.32] family have the opportunity -[2162.32 --> 2163.64] to make a promise -[2163.64 --> 2164.66] and so i'm going to invite you -[2164.66 --> 2166.02] as you're able to stand -[2166.02 --> 2167.82] and i will ask you -[2167.82 --> 2169.46] congregation gathered here -[2169.46 --> 2170.94] a question as well -[2170.94 --> 2171.88] and then invite you -[2171.88 --> 2172.70] to respond -[2172.70 --> 2173.98] also saying -[2173.98 --> 2175.30] we do with god's help -[2175.30 --> 2176.18] and you can model for them -[2176.18 --> 2177.18] how it's supposed to be done -[2177.18 --> 2180.32] do you promise -[2180.32 --> 2181.34] to love -[2181.34 --> 2181.84] encourage -[2181.84 --> 2182.76] and support -[2182.76 --> 2183.40] daniel -[2183.40 --> 2184.24] ismay -[2184.24 --> 2184.66] jed -[2184.66 --> 2186.48] and all of their family -[2186.48 --> 2188.24] by welcoming them -[2188.24 --> 2189.70] into our church family -[2189.70 --> 2190.78] by teaching -[2190.78 --> 2191.42] the gospel -[2191.42 --> 2192.32] of god's love -[2192.32 --> 2193.60] by being an example -[2193.60 --> 2194.74] of christian faith -[2194.74 --> 2195.42] and character -[2195.42 --> 2197.00] and by giving the strong -[2197.00 --> 2198.34] support of god's family -[2198.34 --> 2199.00] in fellowship -[2199.00 --> 2200.70] prayer and service -[2200.70 --> 2201.84] what is your answer -[2201.84 --> 2205.32] amen -[2205.32 --> 2207.68] jed -[2207.68 --> 2210.30] the lord -[2210.30 --> 2213.26] the lord -[2213.26 --> 2213.30] lord -[2213.30 --> 2213.38] lord -[2213.38 --> 2213.92] make his face -[2213.92 --> 2214.84] to shine upon you -[2214.84 --> 2215.60] and be gracious -[2215.60 --> 2216.54] to you -[2216.54 --> 2216.84] the lord -[2216.84 --> 2217.90] turn his face -[2217.90 --> 2218.66] towards you -[2218.66 --> 2219.60] and give you -[2219.60 --> 2220.90] his peace -[2220.90 --> 2222.40] and in this way -[2222.40 --> 2223.26] may the lord -[2223.26 --> 2223.98] put his name -[2223.98 --> 2224.60] on you -[2224.60 --> 2225.68] and make you -[2225.68 --> 2227.06] his own -[2227.06 --> 2227.98] amen -[2227.98 --> 2229.82] you may be seated -[2229.82 --> 2233.04] may i take him -[2233.04 --> 2233.54] for a minute -[2233.54 --> 2237.42] hey there -[2237.42 --> 2238.68] hey -[2238.68 --> 2238.76] hey -[2238.76 --> 2248.60] regularly in our -[2248.60 --> 2250.24] services of baptism -[2250.24 --> 2250.98] like this -[2250.98 --> 2251.22] we -[2251.22 --> 2252.38] mark -[2252.38 --> 2253.68] the beginning -[2253.68 --> 2254.96] of a journey -[2254.96 --> 2255.78] of faith -[2255.78 --> 2256.74] that jed -[2256.74 --> 2257.98] is on -[2257.98 --> 2258.38] now -[2258.38 --> 2259.16] among us -[2259.16 --> 2260.18] and so -[2260.18 --> 2261.04] we present him -[2261.04 --> 2261.58] to you -[2261.58 --> 2262.38] as one -[2262.38 --> 2262.86] who belongs -[2262.86 --> 2263.38] to our covenant -[2263.38 --> 2263.76] family -[2263.76 --> 2265.00] as one -[2265.00 --> 2265.54] who has -[2265.54 --> 2266.74] received the sign -[2266.74 --> 2267.36] and seal -[2267.36 --> 2268.02] of adoption -[2268.02 --> 2269.28] this morning -[2269.28 --> 2270.44] and so -[2270.44 --> 2270.98] he begins -[2270.98 --> 2271.48] this journey -[2271.48 --> 2272.00] of faith -[2272.00 --> 2272.64] among you -[2272.64 --> 2273.48] and with you -[2273.48 --> 2274.40] and our hope -[2274.40 --> 2275.04] and prayer -[2275.04 --> 2276.30] is that one day -[2276.30 --> 2277.42] jed will stand -[2277.42 --> 2278.22] before us -[2278.22 --> 2279.14] in his profession -[2279.14 --> 2279.70] of faith -[2279.70 --> 2281.04] and he will make -[2281.04 --> 2281.54] this faith -[2281.54 --> 2282.00] his own -[2282.00 --> 2283.12] he will say -[2283.12 --> 2283.48] yes -[2283.48 --> 2284.48] i believe -[2284.48 --> 2285.10] in jesus -[2285.10 --> 2286.00] as my lord -[2286.00 --> 2286.58] and savior -[2286.58 --> 2287.40] and that god -[2287.40 --> 2288.04] raised him -[2288.04 --> 2288.88] from the dead -[2288.88 --> 2290.12] this is our -[2290.12 --> 2291.00] solemn hope -[2291.00 --> 2292.10] and prayer -[2292.10 --> 2292.96] for jed -[2292.96 --> 2294.18] may we all -[2294.18 --> 2294.70] together -[2294.70 --> 2296.26] journey with him -[2296.26 --> 2297.46] in this pursuit -[2297.46 --> 2298.64] of faith -[2298.64 --> 2299.24] amen -[2299.24 --> 2301.12] amen -[2301.12 --> 2303.40] you guys sat down -[2303.40 --> 2304.00] before you were -[2304.00 --> 2304.68] instructed to -[2304.68 --> 2305.32] so you can just -[2305.32 --> 2305.82] stay here -[2305.82 --> 2306.60] but i'm going to -[2306.60 --> 2307.46] invite seth -[2307.46 --> 2308.10] your elder -[2308.10 --> 2308.82] to come forward -[2308.82 --> 2309.34] he is a little -[2309.34 --> 2309.98] gift and a -[2309.98 --> 2310.58] memento of -[2310.58 --> 2311.10] today's -[2311.10 --> 2312.22] event -[2312.22 --> 2312.74] an occasion -[2312.74 --> 2313.20] that we want -[2313.20 --> 2313.56] to share -[2313.56 --> 2314.04] with you -[2314.04 --> 2315.56] in remembrance -[2315.56 --> 2316.16] of today -[2316.16 --> 2343.40] great is thy -[2343.40 --> 2345.48] faithfulness -[2345.48 --> 2346.84] oh god -[2346.84 --> 2348.40] my father -[2348.40 --> 2351.42] there is no -[2351.42 --> 2353.60] shadow of -[2353.60 --> 2355.52] turning with -[2355.52 --> 2356.94] thee -[2356.94 --> 2359.42] thou changest -[2359.42 --> 2360.48] not -[2360.48 --> 2362.20] thy compassion -[2362.20 --> 2364.10] they fail -[2364.10 --> 2365.04] not -[2365.04 --> 2367.44] as thou hast -[2367.44 --> 2368.40] been -[2368.40 --> 2370.28] thou forever -[2370.28 --> 2371.52] wilt be -[2371.52 --> 2375.48] great is thy -[2375.48 --> 2377.20] faithfulness -[2377.20 --> 2379.48] great is thy -[2379.48 --> 2381.14] faithfulness -[2381.14 --> 2383.34] morning by -[2383.34 --> 2384.40] morning -[2384.40 --> 2386.58] new mercies -[2386.58 --> 2387.52] I see -[2387.52 --> 2391.04] all I have -[2391.04 --> 2392.16] needed -[2392.16 --> 2393.64] thy hand -[2393.64 --> 2395.68] hath provided -[2395.68 --> 2398.88] great is thy -[2398.88 --> 2400.78] faithfulness -[2400.78 --> 2402.68] lord unto -[2402.68 --> 2404.60] me -[2404.60 --> 2408.94] summer and -[2408.94 --> 2410.80] winter and -[2410.80 --> 2412.80] springtime and -[2412.80 --> 2414.22] harvest -[2414.22 --> 2416.50] sun moon and -[2416.50 --> 2418.38] stars in their -[2418.38 --> 2419.26] courses -[2419.26 --> 2420.68] above -[2420.68 --> 2422.76] joy -[2422.76 --> 2423.46] join with -[2423.46 --> 2424.06] all -[2424.06 --> 2425.14] nature -[2425.14 --> 2425.98] in -[2425.98 --> 2427.28] manifold -[2427.28 --> 2428.64] witness -[2428.64 --> 2430.92] to thy -[2430.92 --> 2431.60] great -[2431.60 --> 2433.42] faithfulness -[2433.42 --> 2434.42] mercy -[2434.42 --> 2435.48] and -[2435.48 --> 2436.48] love -[2436.48 --> 2438.78] great is -[2438.78 --> 2439.34] thy -[2439.34 --> 2441.06] faithfulness -[2441.06 --> 2442.70] great is -[2442.70 --> 2443.28] thy -[2443.28 --> 2444.86] faithfulness -[2444.86 --> 2446.06] morning -[2446.06 --> 2447.06] by -[2447.06 --> 2448.06] morning -[2448.06 --> 2448.98] new -[2448.98 --> 2450.22] mercies -[2450.22 --> 2451.98] I see -[2451.98 --> 2453.32] all -[2453.32 --> 2454.58] I have -[2454.58 --> 2455.64] needed -[2455.64 --> 2456.42] thy -[2456.42 --> 2457.04] hand -[2457.04 --> 2457.62] hath -[2457.62 --> 2459.06] provided -[2459.06 --> 2461.50] great is -[2461.50 --> 2462.10] thy -[2462.10 --> 2464.00] faithfulness -[2464.00 --> 2464.86] lord -[2464.86 --> 2465.82] unto -[2465.82 --> 2467.52] thee -[2467.52 --> 2471.28] pardon -[2471.28 --> 2472.36] for -[2472.36 --> 2473.56] sin -[2473.56 --> 2473.98] and -[2473.98 --> 2474.56] a -[2474.56 --> 2475.22] peace -[2475.22 --> 2475.96] that -[2475.96 --> 2478.10] endureth -[2478.10 --> 2479.22] thy -[2479.22 --> 2479.26] thy -[2479.26 --> 2479.80] own -[2479.80 --> 2480.38] dear -[2480.38 --> 2481.76] presence -[2481.76 --> 2482.22] to -[2482.22 --> 2483.18] cheer -[2483.18 --> 2483.82] and -[2483.82 --> 2484.40] to -[2484.40 --> 2485.86] guide -[2485.86 --> 2487.18] strength -[2487.18 --> 2487.80] for -[2487.80 --> 2488.76] today -[2488.76 --> 2489.92] and -[2489.92 --> 2491.14] bright hope -[2491.14 --> 2491.76] for -[2491.76 --> 2493.26] tomorrow -[2493.26 --> 2495.22] blessings -[2495.22 --> 2496.40] all -[2496.40 --> 2497.40] mine -[2497.40 --> 2497.76] with -[2497.76 --> 2498.34] ten -[2498.34 --> 2499.18] thousand -[2499.18 --> 2500.64] beside -[2500.64 --> 2503.58] great is -[2503.58 --> 2504.14] thy -[2504.14 --> 2505.72] faithfulness -[2505.72 --> 2507.34] great is -[2507.34 --> 2507.88] thy -[2507.88 --> 2509.44] faithfulness -[2509.44 --> 2510.60] morning -[2510.60 --> 2511.60] by -[2511.60 --> 2512.60] morning -[2512.60 --> 2513.48] new -[2513.48 --> 2514.74] mercies -[2514.74 --> 2516.26] I see -[2516.26 --> 2517.84] all -[2517.84 --> 2519.10] I have -[2519.10 --> 2520.14] needed -[2520.14 --> 2520.96] thy -[2520.96 --> 2521.54] hand -[2521.54 --> 2522.14] have -[2522.14 --> 2523.60] provided -[2523.60 --> 2526.10] great is -[2526.10 --> 2526.80] thy -[2526.80 --> 2528.80] faithfulness -[2528.80 --> 2529.88] Lord -[2529.88 --> 2530.84] unto -[2530.84 --> 2531.84] thee -[2531.84 --> 2547.38] good -[2547.38 --> 2561.82] morning my name is Pearl I'm one of the deacons here at Langley Emanuel and we continue worship by having an offering today -[2561.82 --> 2591.34] is both for the budget and for benevolence the budget is for the needs and the ministries of this church and if you would like to give to that then make sure that it's in a marked envelope you can use the envelopes that are in front of the chairs in front of you and the other offering is for benevolence which is a fund that's administered by the deacons and it's for people who are in need that from this congregation or from the immediate community for people who are in need that are from this congregation or from the immediate community for -[2591.34 --> 2598.34] people who are in need that of the church and for people who are in need that of the church and for people who may be experiencing unemployment or sickness or trauma and need some assistance. -[2599.06 --> 2609.74] So thank you so much for being so generous and giving to the benevolent fund in the past and continue today to give with a happy heart. Thank you. -[2609.74 --> 2624.26] We're going to sing who you say I am during the offering right now so as your gift please join us in this song which is about our identities rooted in Christ which we know are signified by our baptisms because God's grace for us precedes our knowledge of it. -[2624.42 --> 2626.70] So please join us in singing who you say I am. -[2626.70 --> 2653.38] Who am I that the highest thing would welcome me? -[2653.38 --> 2658.76] I was lost but he brought me in. -[2658.76 --> 2662.38] Oh his love for me. -[2662.38 --> 2666.38] Oh his love for me. -[2666.38 --> 2667.38] Oh his love for me. -[2667.38 --> 2671.38] Oh the sun sets free. -[2671.38 --> 2676.38] Oh it's free indeed. -[2676.38 --> 2680.38] I'm a child of God. -[2680.38 --> 2683.38] Yes I am. -[2683.38 --> 2684.38] Yes I am. -[2684.38 --> 2690.38] Free in last he has ransomed me. -[2690.38 --> 2694.38] His grace runs deep. -[2694.38 --> 2699.38] While I was a slave to sin. -[2699.38 --> 2703.38] Jesus died for me. -[2703.38 --> 2708.38] Yes he died for me. -[2708.38 --> 2712.38] Through the sun sets free. -[2712.38 --> 2713.38] Oh his love for me. -[2713.38 --> 2716.38] Oh his love for me. -[2716.38 --> 2718.38] Yes I am. -[2718.38 --> 2720.38] I'm a child of God. -[2720.38 --> 2724.38] Yes I am. -[2724.38 --> 2725.38] I am. -[2725.38 --> 2726.38] Yes I am. -[2726.38 --> 2727.38] Yes I am. -[2727.38 --> 2728.38] Yes I am. -[2728.38 --> 2731.38] I am chosen, not forsaken. -[2731.38 --> 2732.38] I am who you say I am. -[2732.38 --> 2733.38] I am who you say I am. -[2733.38 --> 2734.38] You are for me, not against me. -[2734.38 --> 2736.38] I am who you say I am. -[2736.38 --> 2737.38] I am chosen, not forsaken. -[2737.38 --> 2738.38] I am who you say I am. -[2738.38 --> 2739.38] I am chosen, not forsaken. -[2739.38 --> 2740.38] I am who you say I am. -[2740.38 --> 2741.38] I am chosen, not forsaken. -[2741.38 --> 2742.38] I am who you say I am. -[2742.38 --> 2744.38] I am chosen, not forsaken. -[2744.38 --> 2748.38] I am who you say I am. -[2748.38 --> 2754.38] I am chosen, not forsaken. -[2754.38 --> 2769.38] I am who you say I am. -[2769.38 --> 2782.50] You are for me, not against me. I am who you say I am. Oh, I am who you say I am. -[2782.50 --> 2798.66] Who the sun sets free, always believe in me. I'm a child of God, yes I am. -[2798.66 --> 2815.24] In my Father's house, there's a place for me. I'm a child of God, yes I am. -[2815.24 --> 2833.64] In my Father's house, there's a place for me. I'm a child of God, yes I am. -[2833.64 --> 2863.62] I'm a child of God, yes I am. -[2863.64 --> 2868.32] Okay, so today we're going to talk about a big word called perspective. -[2868.86 --> 2872.22] Do you guys know what perspective means? What does it mean? -[2874.34 --> 2877.66] Yeah, that's a good explanation. She said it's a different way of where you're looking. -[2877.78 --> 2883.98] So how you see things. So we all have our own perspective how we see things, but our perspective can change. -[2884.32 --> 2891.00] It's not always the same. So I want you to imagine you're at the playground and maybe you've gone on the monkey bars -[2891.00 --> 2896.00] or like one of those bars you can do little flips off. Has anyone been on those at school or at the park? -[2896.50 --> 2899.10] And does anyone ever hang upside down on the monkey bars? -[2899.94 --> 2904.16] You've done that? And does everything look a little bit silly when you're upside down? -[2904.48 --> 2908.02] Because your perspective changed, right? You went upside down. -[2908.80 --> 2911.12] Yeah? Like a monkey, exactly. -[2911.12 --> 2915.32] People do look a little creepy then, you're right. -[2915.56 --> 2918.20] If you look at them long enough, everything's upside down. -[2918.80 --> 2922.34] So there's another way you can change perspective too is when you get older. -[2922.50 --> 2925.18] When you get older, you might have a little bit of a different perspective. -[2925.86 --> 2928.66] And I thought we'd have a good little demonstration of that today. -[2928.72 --> 2933.54] I have the perfect person who can come up and demonstrate how their perspective has changed -[2933.54 --> 2934.74] because they've gotten older. -[2934.74 --> 2936.96] So I'm going to invite Pastor Kevin to come forward. -[2937.30 --> 2938.32] He's going to sit right here. -[2940.82 --> 2945.32] Now if you didn't know, you all are going to know that it is his birthday today. -[2945.88 --> 2947.62] And we give him a big clap. -[2949.94 --> 2951.58] Now we're going to play a little game. -[2951.68 --> 2952.86] This is his favorite game. -[2952.92 --> 2954.06] So I picked it just for him. -[2954.22 --> 2955.22] And it's his favorite game. -[2955.28 --> 2957.92] His game is Guess How Old Pastor Kevin Is. -[2957.96 --> 2959.46] He loves playing this with the youth. -[2959.54 --> 2961.96] If you're like a young adult, you might remember playing this. -[2962.46 --> 2963.20] He loves it. -[2963.20 --> 2964.52] Okay. -[2965.14 --> 2965.62] All right. -[2965.70 --> 2966.32] How about Amabel? -[2966.46 --> 2967.52] How old do you think he is? -[2968.70 --> 2969.62] You think he's 40? -[2970.06 --> 2970.36] Okay. -[2970.44 --> 2972.76] How old do you think he is, Ava? -[2975.28 --> 2975.60] 43? -[2976.44 --> 2977.42] What about Spencer? -[2977.42 --> 2978.42] How old do you think he is? -[2983.28 --> 2983.94] It's hard. -[2985.52 --> 2985.92] 34. -[2986.34 --> 2986.58] Oh. -[2987.00 --> 2987.92] You're his new favorite. -[2989.76 --> 2990.04] Malachi? -[2990.68 --> 2991.64] You think he's 40? -[2992.02 --> 2992.64] What do you think? -[2993.20 --> 2994.08] You all think he's 40? -[2994.16 --> 2996.22] Well, you are way better at this than the youth. -[2996.98 --> 2999.90] I think someone thought he was 40, like, when he was 24. -[3000.12 --> 3000.96] 19 years ago. -[3001.06 --> 3003.60] You guys all, I'm sure, could get a gumball for him after his birthday. -[3004.00 --> 3005.72] He's 40, so we're going to do a little interview. -[3005.86 --> 3011.20] So can you demonstrate how your perspective has changed in the last few hours that you've -[3011.20 --> 3011.58] been awake? -[3011.58 --> 3017.68] I have learned that giving my wife the microphone to AdLib Children's Worship Time is a bad idea. -[3017.68 --> 3019.66] I've learned that that's gotten harder and harder. -[3020.68 --> 3023.22] As you get older, you apparently get wiser. -[3023.54 --> 3025.24] So we'll see if that becomes true. -[3025.24 --> 3030.68] And I just, you grow in your love for others as well. -[3030.78 --> 3030.90] Yeah? -[3035.68 --> 3037.24] Well, thanks for coming up. -[3037.34 --> 3038.36] You can go, you can sit down. -[3038.62 --> 3042.88] You can go and see him for gumballs after the service, I'm sure, or wish him a happy birthday. -[3043.34 --> 3047.40] But we're going to talk about how our perspective changes about the kingdom of God. -[3047.50 --> 3048.58] So that's our topic today. -[3048.58 --> 3053.12] We understand the kingdom of God from earth, but one day we get to see a new perspective -[3053.12 --> 3057.64] when we get to see the kingdom of God that Jesus talks about in the Bible. -[3057.92 --> 3061.78] So we're going to learn about the story of the mustard seed and some different examples -[3061.78 --> 3065.26] that Jesus gives us to learn about what the kingdom of God is. -[3065.64 --> 3067.44] So we can stand up for a moment. -[3067.62 --> 3069.68] Everybody, stand up please with us. -[3069.78 --> 3072.96] And the children are going to bless us and receive a blessing. -[3072.96 --> 3073.06] Thank you. -[3078.58 --> 3108.56] Thank you. -[3108.76 --> 3109.80] full council. -[3110.06 --> 3113.72] We had a meeting this past Tuesday evening. -[3115.20 --> 3126.18] And regarding Pastor Kevin, we are going to have a town hall discussing the future of -[3126.18 --> 3128.18] Pastor Kevin here at this church. -[3128.50 --> 3132.70] He's going to be fully ordained sometime this year soon. -[3132.70 --> 3140.70] So we want to ask you to put a placeholder for April 8th, the evening, that's a Tuesday evening for April 8th. -[3140.70 --> 3142.50] If you could put that in your calendars. -[3144.12 --> 3152.48] We also discussed a calendar for upcoming nominations for council members, both elders and deacons. -[3152.84 --> 3160.90] We have a few that will be retiring this year and we need you to think of who could fill their positions. -[3162.70 --> 3164.64] And that calendar was put forward. -[3165.06 --> 3171.64] And we also received updates from Pastor Chris and Pastor Kevin that work here at this church. -[3172.60 --> 3173.64] Thank you. -[3187.98 --> 3189.98] Good morning. I'm Peter. -[3189.98 --> 3192.70] I'm a member of this church. -[3193.56 --> 3204.88] I'm also a, we have a men's meeting that meets on Thursday mornings at 10 from 10 to 1130 to discuss the pastor's sermons. -[3205.46 --> 3210.88] And we can have anywhere from 8 to 12 people present. -[3210.88 --> 3221.70] And one of the things that we do is we discuss, after we discuss the pastor's sermon and how it applies to our lives, life, we always have a time for, time for prayer. -[3222.24 --> 3227.36] And it's amazing how many, when you have 12 people, just 12. -[3227.46 --> 3238.22] So I can imagine among all of you here, if we, if I dig into your personal stories, there are always needs, there are always needs for prayer. -[3238.22 --> 3248.56] One of the things that I like to think about too, though, is in the prayer, is how we fit into our communities and into our, into our society in which we live. -[3248.56 --> 3251.86] And I think that's important. -[3251.86 --> 3262.66] So for instance, I was thinking about when Jackie and I came here to this church in 1995, they were just starting out with the Mexico missions. -[3262.66 --> 3266.38] So we're into, we're into 2025 now. -[3266.48 --> 3272.46] If you do the math, that's 30 years of Mexican, Mexico missions, missions, trips. -[3272.76 --> 3276.22] I think that's a, that's an incredible legacy that we have. -[3276.56 --> 3286.38] And when you think about it, one of our young people at the time, Jody, was there and she married a fellow, Uriel, and they have their ministry there. -[3286.44 --> 3289.32] And in two weeks, we'll be doing a collection for them. -[3289.54 --> 3291.22] So let's keep them in our prayers. -[3291.22 --> 3298.70] Also five years ago this week, COVID, COVID started and the government clamped down on us. -[3298.78 --> 3309.26] It's hard to believe it was five years already, but our church, all churches at Christianity in many ways felt threatened in some respects, but we persevered. -[3309.58 --> 3319.54] And out of that has come, you know, the, our services are now, you can, you can see them at home if you're, if you're, if you're ill. -[3319.54 --> 3324.58] Also this week, we have a new prime minister, Mark Carney. -[3325.38 --> 3331.24] And whatever we think of our politics, God does call us to, to, to pray for them and keep them. -[3331.24 --> 3338.84] And Trudeau resigned and so, but he served us for, for, for 10 years. -[3339.72 --> 3340.82] South of the border. -[3341.34 --> 3343.78] These are things that we talk, we kind of talk about. -[3343.92 --> 3349.78] We try not to get too, too fired up about our opinions about it, but I think it's important. -[3349.78 --> 3357.90] But right now tariffs are a big deal and the U.S. president is, is fairly, has been fairly disruptive in terms of what's happening. -[3357.90 --> 3368.86] And I know that's brought a lot of anxiety in our church community, too, among those of us who are in the employment business or looking for work and stability. -[3369.66 --> 3375.06] We continue also to see in Ukraine and Russia, the conflict that's there. -[3375.06 --> 3380.24] And we're hoping for peace there as well as in the Middle East between Israel, Hamas, Gaza. -[3381.06 --> 3386.52] So there's a lot, a lot on our plate when we, when we go, when we go to prayer. -[3386.52 --> 3397.70] And we keep coming back to like the sermon even from last, and I'm sure it'll be today from Thessalonians, where Pastor Chris last week told us about what happens when we die. -[3397.96 --> 3399.30] We have a tremendous hope. -[3399.30 --> 3403.12] But what happens if Christ returns before we die? -[3403.56 --> 3405.58] We've had a wonderful discussion about that. -[3406.96 --> 3412.02] In our congregation, we also have a lot of, a lot of needs. -[3412.74 --> 3420.78] And, and I just want to kind of go through them because I'm not always sure exactly how to pray for these things because there's important details there. -[3420.88 --> 3425.74] For instance, Tamara, Tara, sorry, Tara, where are you? -[3425.74 --> 3432.32] Her husband, Al, has a, has a disintegrating disc disease and it's gotten so bad. -[3432.40 --> 3436.10] There's nothing the doctors can do about it except shots for pain relief. -[3436.86 --> 3440.96] Please pray for pain relief, for mobility, that something can be done to fix it. -[3441.62 --> 3447.36] Also for Tara's brother-in-law, Joe, who was in hospital in Fredericton after having two strokes. -[3448.54 --> 3453.04] Prayers for healing and that therapy to learn to walk and speed goes well. -[3453.04 --> 3459.66] We have a lot of young kids that are sick and parents how to, and parents need to know how to care for them. -[3459.76 --> 3460.82] That could create stress. -[3461.42 --> 3468.26] We have ongoing mental health issues in our, in our, in our, our concerns as well in our church. -[3468.72 --> 3472.26] And there's some who struggle with addictions and family dynamics. -[3472.26 --> 3477.18] So if you dig in, there's all kinds of things that are, that are going on. -[3477.18 --> 3480.40] Cancer also is a reality in our church community. -[3481.48 --> 3485.40] Uh, Jerry and Eneka's sister's dealing with cancer therapy. -[3486.06 --> 3491.44] Um, Klaas and, uh, Amanda's sister Tanya. -[3492.60 --> 3493.36] Cancer. -[3493.86 --> 3496.98] John has just been introduced to, uh, cancer therapy. -[3496.98 --> 3498.84] The Kemp and our family. -[3499.14 --> 3500.20] Uh, so it's there. -[3500.20 --> 3506.54] Um, the good news is Anne-Marie Van Muen had her, had her heart valve repaired. -[3506.86 --> 3509.48] And that's gone, uh, that's gone really well. -[3509.56 --> 3511.06] And Judy Versteg, where are you? -[3511.16 --> 3514.40] You're, you're going to have your, uh, operation for a heart valve. -[3515.84 --> 3520.04] In, in a, in a few, in a week or so, it's going to happen. -[3520.20 --> 3524.82] So there's a lot of things happening in, uh, a lot of things that are happening. -[3524.96 --> 3525.98] Let me lead you in prayer. -[3525.98 --> 3530.80] Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be your name. -[3532.10 --> 3537.78] Your kingdom come, not just in Ukraine or in the Middle East, but even here. -[3538.76 --> 3544.94] We've heard the promise that went to the, the Church of Thessalonica, that you are there for us. -[3545.44 --> 3550.84] You are, you will be calling us home, or we will greet you as you return. -[3551.30 --> 3553.00] We long for that day. -[3553.00 --> 3555.38] Your will be done. -[3555.38 --> 3558.18] As in heaven, so on earth. -[3559.00 --> 3565.44] We are sometimes so perplexed, Lord, by what's going on in the body politic and in our neighborhoods and in our community. -[3566.00 --> 3567.48] We're often aghast. -[3567.48 --> 3568.48] We're often aghast. -[3568.48 --> 3571.40] But yet at the same time, we rely, we rely on you. -[3572.44 --> 3575.78] Give us this day our daily bread and a house to live in. -[3576.98 --> 3583.46] We recognize that in most parts of the world, just to have one meal a day is a huge deal. -[3583.46 --> 3586.46] Forgive us our sins. -[3586.46 --> 3592.92] Forgive us our sins as we also have forgiven those who sin against us. -[3593.18 --> 3596.34] It's the constant reminder every day for us. -[3597.30 --> 3600.78] And bring us not, bring us not into temptation. -[3601.56 --> 3603.12] There's so many around us. -[3603.34 --> 3607.90] So many things around us that tempt us, but deliver us from the evil one. -[3607.90 --> 3608.02] Amen. -[3609.02 --> 3610.10] Yours is the kingdom. -[3610.48 --> 3611.58] Yours is the power. -[3612.18 --> 3614.00] And yours is the glory forever. -[3614.60 --> 3614.98] Amen. -[3637.90 --> 3653.14] We're going to spend the bulk of the rest of our time together looking at the next text out of the letter to the Thessalonians, -[3653.26 --> 3654.70] the first letter to the Thessalonians. -[3655.12 --> 3659.48] This morning we're going to read from 1 Thessalonians 5, 1 through 11. -[3659.98 --> 3663.00] The first time through it will be on the screen behind me. -[3663.00 --> 3668.32] But I encourage you, as you're able, open a Bible, whether it's on a device or if you brought one, excellent. -[3668.46 --> 3671.50] If you're looking for one, there's a few at the back you can grab. -[3672.00 --> 3676.34] And just have that and keep that open in front of you as we refer back to that throughout. -[3678.66 --> 3682.72] Let's read together from 1 Thessalonians 5. -[3682.72 --> 3690.88] Now, brothers and sisters, about times and dates we do not need to write you, -[3691.34 --> 3695.80] for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. -[3696.54 --> 3704.24] While people are saying peace and safety, destruction will come on them suddenly as labor pains on a pregnant woman, -[3704.52 --> 3705.86] and they will not escape. -[3705.86 --> 3713.62] But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. -[3714.18 --> 3717.24] You are all children of the light and children of the day. -[3717.82 --> 3720.62] We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. -[3721.56 --> 3727.20] So then, let us not be like others who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober. -[3727.72 --> 3731.40] For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night. -[3731.40 --> 3737.54] But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on faith and love as a breastplate -[3737.54 --> 3739.80] and the hope of salvation as a helmet. -[3740.44 --> 3746.40] For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath, but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. -[3747.20 --> 3753.62] He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. -[3754.56 --> 3761.34] Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up, just as, in fact, you are doing. -[3761.98 --> 3763.12] This is the word of the Lord. -[3769.12 --> 3775.66] I wasn't sure if I was going to introduce this message in this way until just five minutes ago -[3775.66 --> 3779.02] when I found out that none of my family are in the service right now. -[3779.08 --> 3780.64] They're all volunteering in other parts. -[3781.20 --> 3782.58] And so I can say this safely. -[3782.58 --> 3792.26] Have you ever had somewhere to go and a time you had to leave at, at, say, 7.55 in the morning, -[3792.44 --> 3800.78] to get to school for 8 o'clock start, and you're standing at the door and no one else is ready to go? -[3800.78 --> 3804.32] And you're just waiting and waiting? -[3804.32 --> 3806.58] So, cards on the table. -[3806.66 --> 3814.28] I'm the kind of person that I can sleep in with the best of them, but if I have somewhere to be, something to do, I can get up. -[3814.32 --> 3815.54] It doesn't matter what time. -[3815.84 --> 3819.36] It doesn't matter how little or how long of sleep I've had. -[3819.36 --> 3821.20] But when I get up, I've got to start going. -[3821.86 --> 3823.94] I'm not a lazy morning kind of person. -[3824.10 --> 3828.88] I'm not a sit down with a coffee and read or play games on my phone. -[3829.26 --> 3832.38] I'm a get up, get dressed, and get out the door kind of guy. -[3832.38 --> 3837.68] Now, my kids are a little different. -[3839.02 --> 3843.14] Bless her heart, Nora is trying, and she's usually the first one ready. -[3843.84 --> 3845.50] And then I won't tell you about Rachel. -[3847.96 --> 3852.20] Let's just say that Nora and I are usually in the car and ready to go first. -[3853.78 --> 3858.80] But we're waiting, we're ready, and we're waiting eagerly to go. -[3859.66 --> 3862.24] And then we just wait and wait. -[3863.22 --> 3863.98] And wait. -[3865.18 --> 3868.16] Now, what is the attitude of my heart in that moment? -[3869.04 --> 3872.74] Is it a posture of anticipation and excitement and readiness for what's to come? -[3872.88 --> 3874.10] Or is there a grumbling? -[3874.86 --> 3875.76] You can decide. -[3878.72 --> 3884.04] This morning, in the text that Paul has for us to study and read, -[3884.04 --> 3888.88] we are asking the question of our posture in waiting. -[3888.88 --> 3893.62] And not just waiting for someone to be ready to go to school, -[3893.80 --> 3900.18] but waiting for the return of Jesus Christ to this world and the restoration of all things. -[3900.54 --> 3904.72] Are we ready, expectant, motivated, and eager? -[3904.72 --> 3908.24] Or are we grumbling? -[3908.24 --> 3915.08] Or perhaps worse, indifferent, and the ones not caring about what's coming next? -[3915.08 --> 3921.18] The idea here that Paul presents to us that I believe the Lord wants us to see -[3921.18 --> 3929.38] is the invitation for our waiting to be armed and ready for the day of the Lord is coming. -[3929.38 --> 3933.74] Be armed and ready for the day of the Lord is coming. -[3933.74 --> 3943.38] As we read, you can maybe see that verse 1 and 2 follow naturally from the section before. -[3943.38 --> 3948.40] Last week, we looked at this section, and there, just a quick summary, -[3948.60 --> 3952.18] we finished hearing a message about the return of Jesus, -[3952.62 --> 3955.10] what it will be like, how it will look, -[3955.38 --> 3959.04] and like Peter said before, what it means for us, -[3959.18 --> 3962.72] and for those who have died, and for those who are still alive. -[3962.72 --> 3967.24] And after that beautiful exposition and presentation, -[3967.66 --> 3971.22] the next natural question that you and I might ask is, -[3971.48 --> 3973.70] okay, that's great, but when? -[3974.92 --> 3976.38] When is that going to happen? -[3977.00 --> 3979.64] When will the return of Christ take place? -[3980.78 --> 3983.68] And what's really fascinating, at least it's fascinating to me, -[3984.02 --> 3986.56] is that you and I might ask that question, -[3987.00 --> 3992.42] but it's one that Paul apparently doesn't think that Thessalonians need to ask. -[3993.02 --> 3995.10] Because they should already know the answer. -[3995.58 --> 3996.88] We read in verse 2 that, -[3998.30 --> 4002.54] For you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. -[4003.36 --> 4004.90] You know very well, he says, -[4004.96 --> 4007.96] which means he probably taught this idea to them. -[4008.06 --> 4010.98] It was part of his preaching to them regularly -[4010.98 --> 4015.16] while he was there in Thessalonica for those three weeks, -[4015.54 --> 4017.94] a few months before he wrote these letters. -[4018.42 --> 4021.00] And he taught them this, in part, no doubt, -[4021.00 --> 4024.46] because this is a message that Jesus himself taught. -[4024.56 --> 4027.44] It's an image that he uses of his own return -[4027.44 --> 4029.46] and the unexpected suddenness of it. -[4029.50 --> 4031.06] You can read about that in Matthew 24. -[4032.20 --> 4034.98] And Peter, actually, in his letter, says the same thing. -[4035.04 --> 4035.34] He says, -[4035.42 --> 4037.44] The day of the Lord will come like a thief, -[4037.58 --> 4038.72] in 2 Peter 3. -[4038.72 --> 4043.10] John uses this same image in the book of Revelation, -[4043.36 --> 4045.58] in Revelation 3 and in Revelation 16. -[4046.38 --> 4047.16] Point is, -[4047.70 --> 4052.72] this idea that we know what the return of Christ will look like, -[4052.72 --> 4054.68] but not when it will happen, -[4055.10 --> 4057.08] because it will come like a thief in the night, -[4057.22 --> 4059.24] seems to be a regular, -[4059.58 --> 4063.22] commonplace teaching of the apostles in the early church. -[4063.22 --> 4069.90] It was a teaching of Jesus that we don't know when he will return, -[4070.68 --> 4073.90] and so the apostles continued that teaching. -[4075.50 --> 4078.66] We know how, and we know what it means, -[4079.08 --> 4081.18] and that ought to be enough, says Paul. -[4082.52 --> 4086.36] And so with that, verse 3 continues with a bit of a contrast. -[4086.36 --> 4088.50] And so it says, -[4089.14 --> 4091.88] While people are saying peace and safety, -[4092.08 --> 4095.66] or maybe your translation says peace and security there, -[4096.36 --> 4099.46] destruction will come upon them suddenly. -[4101.18 --> 4106.24] I want to do a little bit of historical and archaeological remembering with you -[4106.24 --> 4106.88] for just a moment. -[4107.02 --> 4109.38] And so if this isn't your cup of tea, -[4109.48 --> 4110.82] just bear with me for a few minutes, -[4110.94 --> 4113.80] but we'll have some images on screen as we go through. -[4113.80 --> 4119.26] So remember that Thessalonica is a major Roman town, -[4119.80 --> 4123.06] and Paul is writing to them from Corinth, -[4123.42 --> 4125.82] which is another major Roman town. -[4126.72 --> 4130.14] And on the coins and statues and monuments and gates, -[4130.30 --> 4134.64] and in many of the writings of note and influence during this time, -[4135.12 --> 4139.92] the gospel of the Pax Romana was declared everywhere, -[4140.04 --> 4141.82] the gospel of the peace of Rome. -[4141.82 --> 4144.24] If you look on screen behind me, -[4144.32 --> 4145.98] and hopefully you can see it. -[4146.02 --> 4148.54] If not, you can check out the live stream later and see the details. -[4149.02 --> 4149.88] But trust me, they're there. -[4150.78 --> 4154.50] The silver coin there on the bottom and to the left -[4154.50 --> 4156.62] is called a cystophorus. -[4157.14 --> 4159.76] This coin was minted in the 20s BC. -[4160.36 --> 4162.44] It's worth about three denarii. -[4163.12 --> 4165.82] And it was used as currency in the empire -[4165.82 --> 4169.02] from about 27 BC until around 200 AD. -[4169.02 --> 4172.70] And on the one side, it has the face of Augustus, -[4173.22 --> 4175.16] the successor to Julius Caesar, -[4175.56 --> 4178.76] the adopted son whose original name was Octavian. -[4179.44 --> 4182.84] And on the other side, there's the inscription Pax, -[4183.38 --> 4185.74] and the image of the goddess of peace. -[4186.78 --> 4189.10] And so you have this connection to the emperor -[4189.10 --> 4192.48] and peace being declared right on the coin. -[4192.48 --> 4197.14] The gold coin that's up there is called an oris, -[4197.36 --> 4202.12] and it's minted around 40 AD and worth about 25 denarii. -[4203.00 --> 4206.14] And it has the face of Claudius on one side, -[4206.26 --> 4209.24] and he reigned as emperor until about 54 AD, -[4209.68 --> 4211.78] which is right around the time these letters were written. -[4212.52 --> 4214.88] So those coins would have been in circulation -[4214.88 --> 4217.88] as Paul is writing these letters. -[4217.88 --> 4220.52] And on the other side of that gold coin, -[4220.72 --> 4223.64] it says Passi Auguste, -[4223.84 --> 4227.02] which means to the venerable peace in Latin. -[4228.26 --> 4230.86] What you also see up there is this giant altar -[4230.86 --> 4232.52] that's built in Rome, -[4232.78 --> 4236.06] and that's called the Ara Passis Auguste, -[4236.20 --> 4238.62] or the altar to the Augustinian peace. -[4239.30 --> 4241.52] It was built at the commemoration -[4241.52 --> 4244.70] of Augustus Octavian's return to Rome, -[4245.12 --> 4246.22] commissioned by the Senate -[4246.22 --> 4249.60] and consecrated on January 30th, 9 BC. -[4249.86 --> 4253.18] And it stood as a monument to the peace and prosperity, -[4253.48 --> 4256.26] as a monument to the peace and safety -[4256.26 --> 4258.28] of the Pax Romana. -[4260.14 --> 4262.58] Now about 30 kilometers outside of Rome, -[4262.74 --> 4263.74] in the next slide, -[4264.46 --> 4267.46] is a small town called Palestrina. -[4268.42 --> 4271.86] And there they recently excavated two altar pillars, -[4272.30 --> 4273.84] and the one on the left, -[4273.84 --> 4274.98] which you can't see at all, -[4275.12 --> 4276.12] so you'll have to trust me, -[4276.22 --> 4279.02] the one on the left says Pax Sacrum, -[4279.34 --> 4282.60] and the one on the right says Securitas Sacrum, -[4283.08 --> 4286.24] which means to the holy peace and to the holy security. -[4287.94 --> 4289.50] So what I want you to hear and see -[4289.50 --> 4292.72] is that it seems likely that when Paul says, -[4292.90 --> 4295.76] well, people are saying peace and safety, -[4296.06 --> 4298.18] he's picking up on a slogan -[4298.18 --> 4299.78] or on a word pairing -[4299.78 --> 4304.40] that would have been an obvious political force -[4304.40 --> 4305.90] for the Thessalonians. -[4308.04 --> 4308.82] Like I said, -[4310.82 --> 4315.20] Thessalonia is the capital of the Macedonian region, -[4315.58 --> 4316.64] and because of that, -[4316.70 --> 4319.38] it is the regional home for the governor -[4319.38 --> 4321.24] and the proconsul of the empire. -[4321.24 --> 4327.04] The peace and security of the empire will fail. -[4327.62 --> 4328.78] That's what Paul is saying. -[4329.40 --> 4333.26] The gospel of Rome is illusory and short-lived. -[4334.26 --> 4336.26] Destruction will come upon them. -[4336.26 --> 4342.74] Even Rome can't save you from what's to come. -[4344.04 --> 4345.26] Only Jesus can. -[4346.44 --> 4347.50] I think that's the point -[4347.50 --> 4349.30] that Paul is trying to underscore here. -[4351.06 --> 4353.68] I read something this week -[4353.68 --> 4354.92] that said, -[4354.92 --> 4358.24] An indifferent church lacks motivation. -[4359.12 --> 4361.50] A panicked church lacks peace. -[4362.64 --> 4363.00] However, -[4364.14 --> 4367.52] an expectant church is filled with passion. -[4368.48 --> 4370.86] I should say an expectant church, -[4370.98 --> 4372.32] not an unexpected church. -[4372.92 --> 4375.94] An expectant church is filled with passion. -[4377.92 --> 4378.82] Now, again, -[4378.92 --> 4380.36] if you've been with us in this series, -[4380.36 --> 4381.34] we've seen already -[4381.34 --> 4383.42] that a sense of indifference -[4383.42 --> 4386.02] existed in some of these Christians -[4386.02 --> 4388.66] and in some of the people of Thessalonica. -[4389.12 --> 4390.66] Paul urges them, right, -[4390.72 --> 4392.06] to work with their hands -[4392.06 --> 4394.10] and to not be dependent on anyone. -[4394.24 --> 4396.10] That's 1 Thessalonians 4, 10. -[4396.56 --> 4398.30] And in chapter 5 of this letter, -[4398.72 --> 4402.02] and again in chapter 3 of 2 Thessalonians, -[4402.20 --> 4405.66] he warns those who are being idle and disruptive. -[4407.54 --> 4409.38] And that's actually part of why it's important -[4409.38 --> 4412.96] not to know the dates and the times of Jesus' return. -[4413.42 --> 4415.28] Because think about it from that perspective. -[4415.42 --> 4417.34] If you know that you have hundreds -[4417.34 --> 4418.82] or thousands of years, -[4419.54 --> 4421.08] it's really easy to be indifferent. -[4422.56 --> 4424.14] I'm a deadline kind of guy. -[4425.02 --> 4426.26] And if I don't have a deadline, -[4426.76 --> 4428.74] I don't have any anxiety about it. -[4432.02 --> 4432.46] Indifference -[4432.46 --> 4434.68] is a gospel killer. -[4434.68 --> 4439.04] Faith, -[4439.54 --> 4442.44] if your faith -[4442.44 --> 4444.02] doesn't make you live differently, -[4444.84 --> 4446.08] why should anyone care? -[4448.48 --> 4448.92] Right? -[4448.96 --> 4450.04] If your kids don't see -[4450.04 --> 4451.46] a different approach to life, -[4451.90 --> 4453.72] what would captivate their hearts -[4453.72 --> 4455.20] to catch our faith? -[4456.94 --> 4458.86] If everything about your life -[4458.86 --> 4459.70] looks no different -[4459.70 --> 4461.00] than your non-Christian friends -[4461.00 --> 4461.84] or neighbors -[4461.84 --> 4462.90] except that maybe -[4462.90 --> 4464.42] you go to church twice a month, -[4464.76 --> 4465.56] three times a month -[4465.56 --> 4466.78] if you had a really good time, -[4467.64 --> 4467.84] right? -[4467.86 --> 4468.54] Why should they care? -[4470.12 --> 4470.34] Or, -[4471.28 --> 4472.20] this is going to hit -[4472.20 --> 4474.30] a few more of you particularly, -[4474.60 --> 4475.86] but if you look to like -[4475.86 --> 4477.16] Instagram or TikTok -[4477.16 --> 4478.38] or YouTube -[4478.38 --> 4480.50] and influencers there -[4480.50 --> 4481.96] to determine -[4481.96 --> 4483.22] what is going to bring you -[4483.22 --> 4484.54] peace and safety, -[4485.00 --> 4485.58] to tell you -[4485.58 --> 4486.32] what the good life -[4486.32 --> 4487.08] is going to be like, -[4487.10 --> 4488.44] if those are your influences, -[4488.44 --> 4490.32] how is that any different -[4490.32 --> 4491.02] than the rest of the world? -[4493.40 --> 4494.26] And is there something -[4494.26 --> 4495.84] missing in that? -[4497.34 --> 4497.52] Right? -[4497.54 --> 4498.44] If the primary way -[4498.44 --> 4499.24] that your neighbors -[4499.24 --> 4500.64] experience your faith -[4500.64 --> 4502.12] is because you're grumbling -[4502.12 --> 4503.98] about who the prime minister is -[4503.98 --> 4505.38] or about who the president -[4505.38 --> 4505.96] might be, -[4506.92 --> 4508.50] what would compel them -[4508.50 --> 4510.08] to pick up the cross daily -[4510.08 --> 4510.86] and follow Jesus? -[4512.34 --> 4513.20] What's different? -[4514.04 --> 4514.12] Right? -[4514.38 --> 4514.86] Indifference -[4514.86 --> 4516.48] is a faith killer. -[4516.48 --> 4518.72] But real faith -[4518.72 --> 4519.80] makes a difference. -[4520.72 --> 4521.94] And it is a beautiful, -[4522.32 --> 4523.28] magnificent thing -[4523.28 --> 4524.88] to confess our sins -[4524.88 --> 4525.80] to each other -[4525.80 --> 4526.62] and to have God -[4526.62 --> 4528.14] speak a word of forgiveness -[4528.14 --> 4529.66] and assurance over you. -[4530.06 --> 4531.44] It is a beautiful thing -[4531.44 --> 4532.66] to see the scales -[4532.66 --> 4533.84] of unbelief -[4533.84 --> 4534.66] fall off -[4534.66 --> 4536.34] the eyes of someone's heart -[4536.34 --> 4537.48] and watch their world -[4537.48 --> 4538.84] actually get brighter -[4538.84 --> 4540.16] and more magnificent. -[4541.06 --> 4542.10] It is majestic -[4542.10 --> 4542.92] when the prayers -[4542.92 --> 4543.62] of the saints -[4543.62 --> 4544.28] are answered -[4544.28 --> 4545.58] and healing comes. -[4545.58 --> 4547.16] It is moving -[4547.16 --> 4548.00] when a church -[4548.00 --> 4549.24] full of people -[4549.24 --> 4549.98] at a funeral -[4549.98 --> 4550.84] can sing -[4550.84 --> 4551.76] It is well -[4551.76 --> 4552.90] with my soul. -[4555.14 --> 4556.28] In the world -[4556.28 --> 4557.80] apart from Christ, -[4558.76 --> 4560.14] the world apart -[4560.14 --> 4560.88] from Christ -[4560.88 --> 4562.20] is indifferent -[4562.20 --> 4563.52] to His return -[4563.52 --> 4565.02] and to who He is -[4565.02 --> 4566.04] and then also -[4566.04 --> 4567.02] to the judgment -[4567.02 --> 4568.78] that He will bring. -[4570.60 --> 4572.08] And our indifference -[4572.08 --> 4573.44] only confirms -[4573.44 --> 4574.16] their right -[4574.16 --> 4574.78] to be so. -[4576.42 --> 4577.56] One writer I read -[4577.56 --> 4578.38] said that -[4578.38 --> 4580.20] God's solemn warnings -[4580.20 --> 4580.98] of judgments -[4580.98 --> 4582.08] are often met -[4582.08 --> 4583.60] by the world's yawn. -[4585.66 --> 4586.74] The kingdoms -[4586.74 --> 4587.70] of the world -[4587.70 --> 4588.94] that are saying -[4588.94 --> 4590.56] peace and safety, -[4590.70 --> 4591.12] the kingdoms -[4591.12 --> 4592.36] of the world -[4592.36 --> 4593.34] whisper peace -[4593.34 --> 4594.14] and security -[4594.14 --> 4595.60] and they lull people -[4595.60 --> 4597.40] into a waking sleep, -[4597.74 --> 4599.52] a spiritual listlessness, -[4599.80 --> 4601.42] a malaise of indifference, -[4601.42 --> 4602.82] relative peace -[4602.82 --> 4604.78] and a terrestrial security, -[4604.98 --> 4605.84] fool the masses -[4605.84 --> 4606.92] and they amass -[4606.92 --> 4607.58] the foolish. -[4609.14 --> 4610.20] But indifference -[4610.20 --> 4610.86] to God -[4610.86 --> 4612.36] is always -[4612.36 --> 4613.28] deadly. -[4613.28 --> 4617.46] You can't sit -[4617.46 --> 4618.32] on the fence anymore. -[4620.16 --> 4620.84] It's time -[4620.84 --> 4621.46] to dive in. -[4623.36 --> 4624.44] For most of you -[4624.44 --> 4625.18] here this morning, -[4625.32 --> 4625.76] you know. -[4626.58 --> 4627.46] You already -[4627.46 --> 4628.30] know -[4628.30 --> 4629.44] what you need -[4629.44 --> 4629.96] to know. -[4630.14 --> 4630.98] The question is -[4630.98 --> 4632.10] what will you do -[4632.10 --> 4632.52] with it? -[4633.88 --> 4634.34] Right? -[4634.38 --> 4634.96] We don't need -[4634.96 --> 4635.46] to know -[4635.46 --> 4636.24] when Jesus -[4636.24 --> 4636.92] will return. -[4637.16 --> 4637.82] We need to know -[4637.82 --> 4639.20] that He will return. -[4639.54 --> 4640.72] And when He does, -[4640.72 --> 4642.16] the only way through -[4642.16 --> 4643.24] will be by believing -[4643.24 --> 4644.42] in Him now, -[4644.56 --> 4645.78] by receiving His mercy -[4645.78 --> 4646.76] and grace now -[4646.76 --> 4648.24] and living with perseverance -[4648.24 --> 4648.98] until the end. -[4649.92 --> 4651.72] The Bible doesn't shy away -[4651.72 --> 4652.62] from the reality -[4652.62 --> 4653.22] of judgment -[4653.22 --> 4654.42] and so neither can we. -[4656.16 --> 4656.72] Instead, -[4657.36 --> 4658.32] in the time -[4658.32 --> 4659.12] that we have, -[4659.64 --> 4660.60] let's be different. -[4661.64 --> 4662.76] Let's be motivated -[4662.76 --> 4663.66] to snatch people -[4663.66 --> 4664.76] away from the fire -[4664.76 --> 4665.52] like we read -[4665.52 --> 4666.28] in Jude 23. -[4667.14 --> 4668.48] We cannot be -[4668.48 --> 4669.14] indifferent. -[4669.98 --> 4670.04] Right? -[4670.04 --> 4670.98] We must care. -[4671.12 --> 4672.16] We must make a difference. -[4672.28 --> 4673.32] We must be motivated -[4673.32 --> 4674.70] to declare the truth -[4674.70 --> 4675.78] of God's gospel -[4675.78 --> 4677.32] because that's the only way -[4677.32 --> 4678.26] for people to have -[4678.26 --> 4678.96] real peace -[4678.96 --> 4680.16] and real security. -[4682.06 --> 4682.70] And especially -[4682.70 --> 4684.40] as we baptize -[4684.40 --> 4684.88] an infant -[4684.88 --> 4686.20] into this truth -[4686.20 --> 4687.00] today, -[4687.22 --> 4689.08] we cannot be indifferent -[4689.08 --> 4690.76] because He will see -[4690.76 --> 4691.70] your indifference. -[4693.16 --> 4694.46] They will see it. -[4695.36 --> 4696.54] And so let us all together -[4696.54 --> 4697.84] be different. -[4697.84 --> 4700.52] And the how -[4700.52 --> 4702.14] of our being different -[4702.14 --> 4703.28] matters here. -[4704.08 --> 4704.74] That's to say -[4704.74 --> 4706.12] we are not panicked. -[4706.92 --> 4707.02] Right? -[4707.08 --> 4707.68] Our declaring -[4707.68 --> 4708.40] of the gospel -[4708.40 --> 4709.78] is with gentleness -[4709.78 --> 4710.60] and respect. -[4710.84 --> 4711.36] It is rooted -[4711.36 --> 4712.22] in love -[4712.22 --> 4712.84] for the world -[4712.84 --> 4713.92] and it is expressed -[4713.92 --> 4714.94] in love -[4714.94 --> 4715.98] for those whom -[4715.98 --> 4717.44] God Himself loves. -[4718.14 --> 4719.14] Instead of panic, -[4719.26 --> 4720.40] we have peace. -[4721.12 --> 4722.02] Let me put it this way -[4722.02 --> 4722.36] for us. -[4722.36 --> 4725.14] The things we know -[4725.14 --> 4725.94] about God -[4725.94 --> 4728.12] far outweigh -[4728.12 --> 4728.72] the things -[4728.72 --> 4729.64] we don't know -[4729.64 --> 4730.34] about our life -[4730.34 --> 4730.92] in this world. -[4732.12 --> 4733.24] Let me say that again -[4733.24 --> 4733.72] for the people -[4733.72 --> 4734.16] in the back. -[4734.46 --> 4735.24] The things we know -[4735.24 --> 4735.94] about God -[4735.94 --> 4737.76] far outweighs -[4737.76 --> 4739.98] the things we don't know -[4739.98 --> 4740.82] about our life -[4740.82 --> 4741.54] in this world. -[4744.48 --> 4745.62] I don't know -[4745.62 --> 4746.24] what tomorrow -[4746.24 --> 4746.82] will bring, -[4747.78 --> 4748.56] but I know -[4748.56 --> 4748.92] the God -[4748.92 --> 4749.74] who brings tomorrow. -[4749.74 --> 4752.62] I don't know -[4752.62 --> 4753.24] how the story -[4753.24 --> 4753.86] of my life -[4753.86 --> 4754.44] will end, -[4754.64 --> 4755.22] but I know -[4755.22 --> 4755.94] how the story -[4755.94 --> 4756.64] of history -[4756.64 --> 4757.46] will end -[4757.46 --> 4758.24] because of who -[4758.24 --> 4758.88] God is. -[4760.30 --> 4761.40] That you may not -[4761.40 --> 4762.60] know why you -[4762.60 --> 4763.60] have some disease -[4763.60 --> 4764.62] and you may just -[4764.62 --> 4765.64] be tired of it all, -[4766.58 --> 4767.70] but you do know -[4767.70 --> 4768.58] the voice of Him -[4768.58 --> 4769.00] who said, -[4769.30 --> 4769.76] come to me -[4769.76 --> 4770.66] all who are weary -[4770.66 --> 4771.50] and heavy laden -[4771.50 --> 4773.14] and I will give you -[4773.14 --> 4773.98] rest. -[4776.46 --> 4777.24] I don't know -[4777.24 --> 4778.10] what comes next, -[4778.10 --> 4780.26] but I know -[4780.26 --> 4781.40] that I am known -[4781.40 --> 4782.08] by the God -[4782.08 --> 4782.68] who does -[4782.68 --> 4784.82] and that is -[4784.82 --> 4786.80] better by far. -[4787.10 --> 4787.32] Amen? -[4789.32 --> 4790.50] That's real peace. -[4791.50 --> 4792.58] A peace that's not -[4792.58 --> 4793.38] dependent upon -[4793.38 --> 4794.32] my circumstances -[4794.32 --> 4795.20] but on the character -[4795.20 --> 4795.74] of God. -[4796.68 --> 4797.74] That's real peace. -[4798.56 --> 4799.58] If indifference -[4799.58 --> 4800.78] kills motivation -[4800.78 --> 4801.90] and being panicked -[4801.90 --> 4802.86] wrecks our peace, -[4803.18 --> 4804.14] the counter vision -[4804.14 --> 4804.94] that the gospel -[4804.94 --> 4805.82] casts for us -[4805.82 --> 4807.18] is motivation -[4807.18 --> 4808.78] and peace -[4808.78 --> 4809.74] coming together -[4809.74 --> 4810.40] to make -[4810.40 --> 4811.66] an expectant -[4811.66 --> 4813.14] and passionate church -[4813.14 --> 4815.08] and we can be -[4815.08 --> 4815.90] expectant -[4815.90 --> 4816.86] because we believe -[4816.86 --> 4817.32] and know -[4817.32 --> 4818.34] that God is at work -[4818.34 --> 4818.98] among us, -[4819.26 --> 4820.34] that God is in control, -[4820.70 --> 4821.44] that led by His -[4821.44 --> 4822.16] sovereign rule -[4822.16 --> 4823.50] and providential guiding, -[4823.66 --> 4824.66] history is moving -[4824.66 --> 4825.82] towards the return -[4825.82 --> 4826.86] of Jesus Christ, -[4826.96 --> 4828.18] ever marching forward -[4828.18 --> 4829.32] for His glory -[4829.32 --> 4830.44] and for our good. -[4830.44 --> 4832.54] we know that -[4832.54 --> 4834.68] our present sufferings -[4834.68 --> 4836.14] will be incomparable -[4836.14 --> 4837.14] to the glory -[4837.14 --> 4838.24] that will be revealed -[4838.24 --> 4839.20] in us -[4839.20 --> 4840.08] and to us -[4840.08 --> 4840.94] and through us. -[4841.52 --> 4842.30] We know that -[4842.30 --> 4843.10] compared to -[4843.10 --> 4844.66] an eternity with God, -[4844.92 --> 4845.52] these light -[4845.52 --> 4846.80] and momentary struggles -[4846.80 --> 4847.60] are producing -[4847.60 --> 4849.26] an eternal weight -[4849.26 --> 4849.82] of glory. -[4850.14 --> 4851.74] Because of who God is, -[4851.94 --> 4853.00] we have purpose -[4853.00 --> 4853.94] and meaning. -[4854.30 --> 4855.18] We have an identity -[4855.18 --> 4856.40] that goes beyond -[4856.40 --> 4857.98] our physical feelings -[4857.98 --> 4859.78] and our present moments. -[4859.78 --> 4860.80] and so, -[4861.12 --> 4862.18] we can be -[4862.18 --> 4864.08] an expectant people -[4864.08 --> 4868.12] and we can be -[4868.12 --> 4869.50] passionate -[4869.50 --> 4871.68] about this truth -[4871.68 --> 4873.58] and about this God, -[4873.78 --> 4874.72] about who He is -[4874.72 --> 4875.80] and what He is doing -[4875.80 --> 4876.80] in our midst, -[4876.96 --> 4878.90] desiring that all people -[4878.90 --> 4879.58] might see -[4879.58 --> 4880.50] and know -[4880.50 --> 4881.58] God this way. -[4882.84 --> 4883.64] Our passion -[4883.64 --> 4884.54] is an invitation -[4884.54 --> 4885.70] to come -[4885.70 --> 4886.36] and see -[4886.36 --> 4887.12] a God -[4887.12 --> 4888.00] at work. -[4888.34 --> 4888.86] Our passion -[4888.86 --> 4889.72] is a display -[4889.72 --> 4890.54] of God's work -[4890.54 --> 4891.08] among us. -[4891.16 --> 4891.68] Our passion -[4891.68 --> 4892.64] is to sing -[4892.64 --> 4893.30] His praises -[4893.30 --> 4894.06] even though -[4894.06 --> 4894.56] we walk -[4894.56 --> 4895.10] through the valley -[4895.10 --> 4895.64] of the shadow -[4895.64 --> 4896.00] of death. -[4896.32 --> 4896.80] Our passion -[4896.80 --> 4897.40] is to sing -[4897.40 --> 4898.00] His praises -[4898.00 --> 4898.70] as we stand -[4898.70 --> 4899.98] on the mountaintops -[4899.98 --> 4900.76] of life. -[4900.88 --> 4901.46] Our passion -[4901.46 --> 4902.52] is for the next -[4902.52 --> 4903.72] generation of believers -[4903.72 --> 4904.90] to be raised up -[4904.90 --> 4905.84] in our midst. -[4906.18 --> 4906.62] Our passion -[4906.62 --> 4907.30] is for the next -[4907.30 --> 4908.20] generation of church -[4908.20 --> 4908.78] leaders to be -[4908.78 --> 4910.16] discipled right here -[4910.16 --> 4910.94] and right now -[4910.94 --> 4911.74] and sent out -[4911.74 --> 4912.66] into the world. -[4912.78 --> 4913.30] Our passion -[4913.30 --> 4914.40] is to raise up -[4914.40 --> 4915.68] an army of missionaries -[4915.68 --> 4916.32] who will go -[4916.32 --> 4917.74] into their workplaces -[4917.74 --> 4918.70] and third places -[4918.70 --> 4919.22] locally -[4919.22 --> 4920.54] and globally -[4920.54 --> 4921.86] all around the globe -[4921.86 --> 4923.70] with this gospel message. -[4923.70 --> 4924.30] The message -[4924.30 --> 4925.26] of Jesus' life, -[4925.64 --> 4925.88] death, -[4926.08 --> 4926.46] resurrection, -[4926.72 --> 4927.52] and exaltation. -[4927.86 --> 4928.44] The message -[4928.44 --> 4929.56] of His return -[4929.56 --> 4930.50] to judge -[4930.50 --> 4931.04] the living -[4931.04 --> 4932.14] and the dead. -[4933.14 --> 4934.82] And it's for this passion, -[4935.20 --> 4936.18] this passion -[4936.18 --> 4937.40] that we must be -[4937.40 --> 4939.08] armed and ready -[4939.08 --> 4940.62] because the day -[4940.62 --> 4940.90] of the Lord -[4940.90 --> 4941.34] is coming. -[4943.10 --> 4943.94] Verse 5 says, -[4943.94 --> 4945.70] you are all children -[4945.70 --> 4947.20] of light -[4947.20 --> 4947.90] and children -[4947.90 --> 4949.24] of the day. -[4949.84 --> 4950.72] Jesus said, -[4951.00 --> 4951.86] you are the light -[4951.86 --> 4952.48] of the world. -[4953.42 --> 4955.10] You are an army -[4955.10 --> 4955.82] for the day -[4955.82 --> 4956.40] of the Lord. -[4957.26 --> 4957.80] This speaks -[4957.80 --> 4958.60] to our identity -[4958.60 --> 4959.90] and our purpose. -[4960.06 --> 4960.50] This speaks -[4960.50 --> 4961.52] to your motivation. -[4962.12 --> 4962.88] Children of the light -[4962.88 --> 4963.98] and children of the day -[4963.98 --> 4965.74] cannot be indifferent -[4965.74 --> 4966.46] to darkness. -[4969.62 --> 4970.50] So then, -[4970.62 --> 4971.54] let us not be like -[4971.54 --> 4972.80] others who are asleep -[4972.80 --> 4976.00] but let us be awake -[4976.00 --> 4977.74] and sober. -[4979.72 --> 4980.02] Again, -[4980.08 --> 4980.92] it's interesting to me -[4980.92 --> 4982.76] that in the previous section -[4982.76 --> 4983.90] Paul uses -[4983.90 --> 4985.42] the metaphor of sleep -[4985.42 --> 4986.66] to refer to death -[4986.66 --> 4987.48] and now -[4987.48 --> 4988.32] he's talking about -[4988.32 --> 4990.08] those who do not know Christ -[4990.08 --> 4991.18] as being asleep -[4991.18 --> 4992.36] and the deeds -[4992.36 --> 4993.20] that they do -[4993.20 --> 4994.48] being the deeds -[4994.48 --> 4995.16] of darkness. -[4996.04 --> 4996.58] He says that -[4996.58 --> 4997.18] Christians -[4997.18 --> 4998.10] are the ones -[4998.10 --> 4999.00] who are alive. -[4999.86 --> 5000.58] There's a sense -[5000.58 --> 5002.42] in which the spiritual reality -[5002.42 --> 5004.06] that we find ourselves in -[5004.06 --> 5005.98] is one of deathliness -[5005.98 --> 5007.32] apart from Christ. -[5007.78 --> 5008.84] But in Christ -[5008.84 --> 5009.72] we are finally -[5009.72 --> 5011.38] actually alive. -[5012.24 --> 5013.08] There's something -[5013.08 --> 5013.98] about life -[5013.98 --> 5015.36] already now -[5015.36 --> 5016.70] that has the marks -[5016.70 --> 5018.18] of eternal life -[5018.18 --> 5018.62] in it. -[5020.14 --> 5020.86] And Jesus said, -[5021.50 --> 5022.08] and this will be -[5022.08 --> 5022.96] on the screen behind me, -[5023.40 --> 5024.36] read with me. -[5024.42 --> 5025.02] Jesus said, -[5025.34 --> 5026.14] the Son of Man -[5026.14 --> 5027.22] must be lifted up -[5027.22 --> 5027.74] that everyone -[5027.74 --> 5028.80] who believes in Him -[5028.80 --> 5030.20] may have eternal life. -[5031.02 --> 5031.54] And then John -[5031.54 --> 5032.32] goes on to comment. -[5032.48 --> 5032.74] He says, -[5033.06 --> 5034.14] for God so loved -[5034.14 --> 5034.58] the world -[5034.58 --> 5035.26] that He gave -[5035.26 --> 5036.84] His one and only Son -[5036.84 --> 5037.82] that whoever believes -[5037.82 --> 5038.16] in Him -[5038.16 --> 5039.10] shall not perish -[5039.10 --> 5040.52] but have eternal life. -[5041.16 --> 5041.98] For God did not -[5041.98 --> 5042.74] send His Son -[5042.74 --> 5043.48] into the world -[5043.48 --> 5044.44] to condemn the world -[5044.44 --> 5045.46] but to save the world -[5045.46 --> 5045.92] through Him. -[5046.20 --> 5047.32] Whoever believes in Him -[5047.32 --> 5048.24] is not condemned. -[5048.94 --> 5049.98] This is the verdict. -[5050.20 --> 5050.96] Light has come -[5050.96 --> 5051.64] into the world -[5051.64 --> 5052.52] but people have loved -[5052.52 --> 5053.72] darkness instead of light -[5053.72 --> 5054.86] because their deeds -[5054.86 --> 5055.34] were evil. -[5055.68 --> 5056.52] But whoever lives -[5056.52 --> 5057.06] by the truth -[5057.06 --> 5058.42] comes into the light -[5058.42 --> 5060.78] so that it may be seen plainly -[5060.78 --> 5062.14] that what they have done -[5062.14 --> 5062.96] has been done -[5062.96 --> 5065.12] in the sight of God. -[5066.90 --> 5068.10] Eternal life, -[5068.80 --> 5070.84] the life of light, -[5071.14 --> 5073.14] is not only about quantity, -[5073.58 --> 5074.32] about the length -[5074.32 --> 5075.72] of unending days, -[5075.90 --> 5077.58] but it is about quality. -[5078.12 --> 5079.50] It's about the kind of life -[5079.50 --> 5081.18] you live already now, -[5081.42 --> 5082.92] in this moment, -[5083.20 --> 5083.92] in this world. -[5084.12 --> 5085.40] That's the message of Jesus. -[5085.66 --> 5086.86] That's the message of Paul -[5086.86 --> 5088.36] here in Thessalonians. -[5088.46 --> 5089.44] That's the life -[5089.44 --> 5090.82] that we baptized Jed -[5090.82 --> 5092.16] into this morning. -[5093.40 --> 5094.70] And make no mistake about it, -[5094.90 --> 5096.04] quality here -[5096.04 --> 5097.52] does not mean easy. -[5098.86 --> 5099.08] Right? -[5099.10 --> 5099.32] In fact, -[5099.38 --> 5100.86] we're given the opposite picture -[5100.86 --> 5102.40] as we are instructed -[5102.40 --> 5103.38] by Paul -[5103.38 --> 5105.18] to put on faith and love -[5105.18 --> 5106.14] as a breastplate. -[5106.70 --> 5106.92] Right? -[5107.00 --> 5108.72] And put on the hope -[5108.72 --> 5109.44] of salvation -[5109.44 --> 5110.16] as a helmet. -[5111.60 --> 5112.04] Right? -[5112.04 --> 5113.22] This is prepping for war. -[5114.22 --> 5115.62] There's a spiritual battle -[5115.62 --> 5117.16] between light and dark, -[5117.28 --> 5118.52] between heaven and hell. -[5118.76 --> 5119.70] That's the life -[5119.70 --> 5120.60] you are entering. -[5122.88 --> 5124.02] And to that end, -[5124.86 --> 5126.32] let me tie this metaphor -[5126.32 --> 5127.72] back to the language -[5127.72 --> 5128.50] from the beginning. -[5130.78 --> 5131.62] An indifferent -[5131.62 --> 5134.28] or a panicked soldier -[5134.28 --> 5135.94] risks losing -[5135.94 --> 5137.04] his entire platoon, -[5138.68 --> 5139.52] risks the life -[5139.52 --> 5141.16] of his entire platoon. -[5141.16 --> 5144.60] There is an identity here -[5144.60 --> 5147.30] and a mission-critical way -[5147.30 --> 5149.04] of living together. -[5152.04 --> 5153.42] For the security -[5153.42 --> 5154.46] of all of us -[5154.46 --> 5156.68] to be motivated -[5156.68 --> 5158.36] with the gospel. -[5160.04 --> 5161.16] The temptation is strong -[5161.72 --> 5162.68] and the truth -[5162.68 --> 5163.82] of the matter is real. -[5164.66 --> 5165.72] Some of us -[5165.72 --> 5166.74] are choosing -[5166.74 --> 5167.44] deathliness -[5167.44 --> 5168.90] and spiritual sleep -[5168.90 --> 5170.10] over real living. -[5170.10 --> 5171.74] real humanity, -[5171.94 --> 5172.68] real mission -[5172.68 --> 5174.08] is lived with God. -[5175.68 --> 5176.64] But the pull -[5176.64 --> 5177.36] of the empire -[5177.36 --> 5178.76] is strong. -[5179.92 --> 5181.40] Whether it's on coins -[5181.40 --> 5182.82] or altars -[5182.82 --> 5183.44] and pillars -[5183.44 --> 5185.26] or on TikTok -[5185.26 --> 5186.94] and YouTube, -[5187.94 --> 5188.88] the promise -[5188.88 --> 5190.68] of easy peace -[5190.68 --> 5192.40] and easy safety -[5192.40 --> 5193.58] is alluring. -[5195.26 --> 5196.46] But it's a lie. -[5196.46 --> 5200.36] don't believe the lie. -[5201.86 --> 5202.44] Instead, -[5203.14 --> 5203.92] instead, -[5204.50 --> 5205.24] armor up -[5205.24 --> 5206.80] and find -[5206.80 --> 5208.52] real life. -[5209.24 --> 5209.50] Amen? -[5210.18 --> 5211.30] Let's pray together. -[5211.30 --> 5217.66] Holy God, -[5217.74 --> 5218.34] Heavenly Father, -[5218.84 --> 5219.42] in the power -[5219.42 --> 5220.50] of your spirit, -[5221.30 --> 5221.88] may we go -[5221.88 --> 5222.98] from this place -[5222.98 --> 5225.04] armed and armored -[5225.04 --> 5226.56] with the power -[5226.56 --> 5227.48] of the gospel. -[5228.48 --> 5229.16] May we go -[5229.16 --> 5230.54] from this place -[5230.54 --> 5233.84] wearing the breastplate -[5233.84 --> 5234.52] of faith -[5234.52 --> 5235.22] and love. -[5235.90 --> 5236.46] May we go -[5236.46 --> 5237.24] from this place -[5237.24 --> 5238.12] with the helmet -[5238.12 --> 5238.66] of the hope -[5238.66 --> 5239.32] of salvation. -[5239.32 --> 5239.82] we go -[5239.82 --> 5240.52] from this place -[5240.52 --> 5241.96] with the sword -[5241.96 --> 5242.64] of the word -[5242.64 --> 5243.12] of God. -[5243.22 --> 5243.70] May we go -[5243.70 --> 5244.76] from this place -[5244.76 --> 5246.44] prepared -[5246.44 --> 5247.68] and equipped -[5247.68 --> 5249.74] to live -[5249.74 --> 5250.58] as people -[5250.58 --> 5252.48] of the light. -[5255.28 --> 5256.56] May your light -[5256.56 --> 5258.10] shine through us -[5258.10 --> 5259.04] today. -[5260.38 --> 5261.46] May your light -[5261.46 --> 5262.82] shine on us -[5262.82 --> 5263.94] and in us -[5263.94 --> 5265.40] and may that light -[5265.40 --> 5266.94] radiate out of us -[5266.94 --> 5267.74] as we go -[5267.74 --> 5269.46] into this week. -[5271.12 --> 5271.62] God, -[5271.70 --> 5273.30] you are so good -[5273.30 --> 5274.84] and help us -[5274.84 --> 5275.84] today to know -[5275.84 --> 5276.54] a little more -[5276.54 --> 5277.40] of who you are -[5277.40 --> 5278.54] and to live -[5278.54 --> 5279.52] a little more -[5279.52 --> 5280.86] as you have -[5280.86 --> 5281.50] called us -[5281.50 --> 5282.30] to live. -[5282.76 --> 5283.76] In Jesus we pray. -[5284.32 --> 5284.68] Amen. -[5284.68 --> 5284.78] Amen. -[5284.78 --> 5284.80] Amen. -[5284.80 --> 5284.84] Amen. -[5284.84 --> 5284.86] Amen. -[5284.86 --> 5284.88] Amen. -[5284.88 --> 5286.80] Amen. -[5286.80 --> 5288.80] Amen. -[5288.80 --> 5288.86] Amen. -[5288.86 --> 5290.80] Amen. -[5290.80 --> 5292.80] Amen. -[5292.80 --> 5292.86] Amen. -[5292.86 --> 5293.80] Amen. -[5293.80 --> 5294.86] Amen. -[5294.86 --> 5294.88] Amen. -[5294.88 --> 5294.92] Amen. -[5294.92 --> 5294.98] Amen. -[5294.98 --> 5295.02] Amen. -[5295.02 --> 5295.06] Amen. -[5297.74 --> 5297.98] Amen. -[5304.16 --> 5305.06] Amen. -[5311.46 --> 5315.94] Amen. -[5316.32 --> 5317.18] Amen. -[5317.44 --> 5317.82] Amen. -[5323.34 --> 5324.04] Amen. -[5324.98 --> 5326.00] Amen. -[5326.00 --> 5336.00] Robed in white apparel, washed in Jesus' blood -[5336.00 --> 5345.80] Lay away in heaven with the Lamb of God -[5345.80 --> 5357.88] Out of tribulation, death and Satan's hand -[5357.88 --> 5366.64] They have been translated at the Lord's command -[5366.64 --> 5375.68] In their hands they're holding palms of victory -[5375.68 --> 5385.68] Hark the duven chorus shouts triumphantly -[5385.68 --> 5397.54] Unto God Almighty sitting on the throne -[5397.54 --> 5407.54] And the Lamb victorious, be the praise of the Lord -[5407.54 --> 5417.54] God has brought salvation, He did wondrous things -[5417.54 --> 5427.54] Who shall not extol Thee, Holy King of kings -[5427.54 --> 5442.26] As you go, go as those sent by God, commissioned by Him with the message of the gospel. -[5442.42 --> 5446.98] Go as children of the light because God Himself goes with you. -[5447.30 --> 5450.30] And so receive God's blessing for the journey ahead. -[5450.30 --> 5453.92] God go before you to lead you. -[5454.30 --> 5456.28] God go behind you to protect you. -[5456.64 --> 5458.56] God go beneath you to support you. -[5458.90 --> 5461.32] God go beside you to befriend you. -[5462.04 --> 5463.30] Do not be afraid. -[5464.30 --> 5466.20] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5466.34 --> 5471.80] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5471.80 --> 5473.14] Amen. -[5473.14 --> 5473.34] Amen. -[5473.34 --> 5495.52] Now unto the King eternal -[5495.52 --> 5502.52] Unto the King immortal -[5502.52 --> 5508.96] Unto the King invisible -[5508.96 --> 5514.80] The only wise God -[5514.80 --> 5521.52] The only wise God -[5521.52 --> 5551.52] -[5551.52 --> 5558.52] The only wise God -[5558.52 --> 5559.52] The only wise God -[5559.52 --> 5561.52] The only wise God -[5561.52 --> 5564.52] Oh unto the King -[5564.52 --> 5568.52] The glory and honor -[5568.52 --> 5572.52] Unto the King forever -[5572.52 --> 5573.52] Unto the King -[5573.52 --> 5577.52] For ever -[5577.52 --> 5578.52] Unto the King -[5578.52 --> 5579.52] The glory and honor -[5579.52 --> 5581.52] For ever -[5581.52 --> 5583.52] And ever -[5583.52 --> 5586.52] Amen -[5586.52 --> 5591.52] Amen -[5591.52 --> 5593.52] Amen -[5593.52 --> 5597.52] Amen -[5597.52 --> 5599.52] Amen -[5599.52 --> 5600.96] Amen -[5600.96 --> 5610.92] Amen -[5611.48 --> 5611.98] Amen -[5611.98 --> 5612.40] Amen -[5616.52 --> 5618.18] Amen -[5618.18 --> 5622.52] Amen -[5625.88 --> 5625.90] Amen -[5625.90 --> 5628.28] Amen -[5628.28 --> 5629.50] Amen -[5629.50 --> 5659.48] Thank you. -[5659.50 --> 5689.48] Thank you. -[5689.50 --> 5691.50] Thank you. -[5719.50 --> 5721.50] Thank you. -[5749.50 --> 5751.50] Thank you. -[5779.50 --> 5781.50] Thank you. -[5809.50 --> 5811.50] Thank you. -[5839.50 --> 5841.50] Thank you. -[5869.50 --> 5871.50] Thank you. -[5899.50 --> 5901.50] Thank you. -[5929.50 --> 5931.50] Thank you. -[5959.50 --> 5961.50] Thank you. -[5989.50 --> 5991.50] Thank you. -[6019.50 --> 6021.50] Thank you. -[6049.50 --> 6051.50] Thank you. -[6079.50 --> 6081.50] Thank you. -[6109.50 --> 6111.50] Thank you. -[6139.50 --> 6141.50] Thank you. -[6169.50 --> 6171.50] Thank you. -[6199.50 --> 6201.50] Thank you. -[6229.50 --> 6231.50] Thank you. -[6259.50 --> 6261.50] Thank you. -[6289.50 --> 6291.50] Thank you. -[6319.50 --> 6321.50] Thank you. -[6321.50 --> 6322.50] Thank you. -[6322.50 --> 6323.34] Thank you. -[6323.50 --> 6324.50] Thank you. -[6324.50 --> 6325.50] Thank you. -[6325.50 --> 6326.50] I'm sorry. -[6326.50 --> 6327.50] I'm sorry. -[6327.50 --> 6328.50] I'm sorry. -[6328.50 --> 6329.50] Yeah. -[6329.50 --> 6330.50] I got a creative. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, March 23, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, March 23, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 997b8de9cf47bb38a360341f2855ae6323c711ab..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, March 23, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,89 +0,0 @@ -• A future day when God will bring justice, love, and restoration to all creation -• The importance of living justly, showing mercy, and loving others in anticipation of this day -• The role of individuals as "hands and feet of Jesus" until that day arrives -• A focus on God's nature as a good, good father who loves and provides for His children -• Personal expressions of love and devotion to God, emphasizing His perfection and faithfulness -• Discussion on shame and blame, with a message that God can turn broken things into something beautiful -• Announcements: - + Mexico Mission trip: need volunteers to pick up team members from SeaTac airport - + Reactivate style conference in East TJ had over 150 youth participants - + Youth camp registration is open until March 30th -• Invitation to worship and receive God's greeting, with a reading of Psalm 89 verses 1-3 -• Singing and celebration of God's love and faithfulness -• Redemption through Jesus Christ and the power of faith -• Overcoming fear and addiction through surrender to God -• Praise and worship for the wonders of God's love -• Identity as a child of God, free from slavery to fear -• Spiritual growth and rest in Jesus, especially during Lent season -• Worship song about constant need for God's presence and power -• Welcome of new church member Aidan Eyre -• Reaffirmation of faith and commitment to church mission -• Brief presentation by Aidan Eyre on his story and work at Trinity Western University -• Aidan shares his background in linguistics and translation, hoping to join Wycliffe Bible Translators -• He grew up surrounded by the world of Bible translation through his parents' work with Wycliffe in North America -• Aidan felt a strong calling to Bible translation during an internship at CanIL and is now pursuing a master's degree in linguistics -• His goal is to help deliver God's word to minority language groups who have been forgotten or marginalized -• He plans to join Wycliffe after completing his master's program and has been given the opportunity to spend three months in Africa this summer for training and language engagement -• The community prays for Aidan, seeking clarity on God's call on his life and guidance in serving Him through Bible translation -• The church budget -• A ministry to seafarers with locations in Vancouver and Tawasson -• Support for volunteers who visit seafarers, provide safe places for them to contact their families, and help with appointments -• Nominations for elders and deacons in the church -• Request for prayer for Tara Porter's husband -• Prayers for various individuals dealing with struggles and illnesses -• Blessings for the nomination process -• Reflection on Jesus' prayer life and its significance for believers -• Request for conviction and improvement in personal prayer time and scripture study -• Prayer for young people, teachers, parents, and workers -• Seeking focus on God while doing daily tasks -• Sharing loving words with others at work or in daily interactions -• Prayers for those undergoing surgery this week -• Reading from 1 Thessalonians 5:12-15 -• Discussion of treating leaders with respect and acknowledgement -• Nomination announcements for new church leaders -• Acknowledging Jesus' life and death as a substitution for our own sin -• The gospel and new identity as Christians -• Marks of a healthy church: acknowledging leaders and people looking out for each other -• Recognizing hard work among leaders, those who care for others, and those who admonish them -• Seeing and knowing leaders, which includes genuine appreciation and acknowledgment -• Church leaders (elders, deacons, pastors) who labor among the body of Christ -• The concept of "labor" in church leadership, including its demands and rewards -• Inviting others into Jesus' rest by working hard among them -• Supporting and thanking church leaders for their service -• Acknowledging and caring for those who care for others in the Lord -• The role of church leaders as servant-leaders, ministers, and overseers who direct the affairs of the church -• Admonishing others with truth and protecting against false spirituality -• The importance of acknowledging and showing respect for church leaders -• The need for a culture of love, peace, and harmony within the church community -• The responsibility of members to create a healthy church culture -• The role of church members in holding leaders accountable and promoting peaceful relationships -• The six imperatives listed in verse 14 for churches to follow: - + Warn those who are idle and disruptive - + Encourage the disheartened - + Help the weak - + Be patient with everyone - + Make sure nobody pays back wrong for wrong - + Always strive to do what is good -• The importance of admonishing, warning, and encouraging one another -• The culture of politeness and tolerance can hinder accountability and confrontation -• Warning against being idle and disruptive, and the negative impact on community stability -• The contrast between leaders who work hard as examples and those who are idle and immature in their faith -• Encouraging disheartened individuals, comforting the discouraged, and speaking hope in dark times -• The biblical concept of "comforting the afflicted and afflicting the comfortable" and its relevance to church leadership and community. -• Characteristics of a healthy church include comforting those who feel disheartened, helping the weak, accepting help and correction -• Patience is essential for a healthy church, especially with difficult individuals -• A healthy church practices justice infused with mercy, seeking to restore members to God and each other rather than responding with evil -• Healthy churches strive to do good for each other and the community around them, having eyes that are simultaneously looking inward and outward. -• Characteristics of a healthy church -• Inviting people to experience God's goodness through the church -• Nurturing relationships within the church -• Lifting up leaders and acknowledging their work -• Living out kingdom justice and restoring relationships -• Being patient, comforting the discouraged, and warning those who are out of step -• Serving both within and beyond the church community -• The importance of individual responsibility for spiritual growth and application -• Prophecies of the earth's restoration and God's reign -• The crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ -• Angels gathering before God and crying out in praise -• God's power and glory as King of all kings and Lord of all lords -• Themes of worship, thanksgiving, and celebration \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, March 23, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, March 23, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 1eb8dc4f387b4699876a6e361d542ff211d898c8..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, March 23, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1093 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 4.10] There's a day that is coming -[4.10 --> 8.34] When all the last will be first -[8.34 --> 11.90] Every orphan will be home -[11.90 --> 13.94] And all will be filled -[13.94 --> 16.40] With hunger and thirst -[16.40 --> 19.96] It's gonna be a celebration -[19.96 --> 23.26] All our creation longs for -[23.26 --> 27.16] And while we're waiting for that day -[27.16 --> 29.18] To come -[29.18 --> 31.88] We've got a little more time -[31.88 --> 34.02] To do justly -[34.02 --> 35.94] And love mercy -[35.94 --> 39.14] And show the love we've been shown -[39.14 --> 41.76] For we can only be -[41.76 --> 45.36] The hands and feet of Jesus -[45.36 --> 49.24] Till He leads us home -[49.24 --> 55.46] He will lead us home -[59.18 --> 63.34] There's a day that is coming -[63.34 --> 67.34] A day that ever will end -[67.34 --> 71.18] There in the light of His glory -[71.18 --> 75.14] Everything broken will be whole again -[75.14 --> 79.02] And this will be the celebration -[79.02 --> 81.90] All our creation longs for -[81.90 --> 86.22] And while we're waiting for that day -[86.22 --> 88.18] To come -[88.18 --> 90.88] We've got a little more time -[90.88 --> 92.58] To love -[92.58 --> 98.98] Just a little more time -[98.98 --> 99.58] To love -[99.58 --> 103.08] Just a little more time -[103.08 --> 103.84] To love -[103.84 --> 116.54] Just a little more time -[116.54 --> 118.54] To love -[118.54 --> 124.38] Peter Lamote -[124.38 --> 124.92] There in the light of his mother -[124.98 --> 125.46] To come -[125.54 --> 126.76] There in the night -[126.98 --> 128.38] Peace -[128.38 --> 129.38] Louis -[129.38 --> 130.92] Alec -[131.14 --> 131.54] Andерт -[131.90 --> 132.80] In the night -[132.84 --> 133.34] Loan -[133.34 --> 133.72] que -[133.72 --> 163.70] I love you. -[163.72 --> 172.46] I've heard a thousand stories of what they think you're like. -[172.80 --> 182.32] But I've heard the tender whisper of love in the dead of night. -[182.32 --> 191.18] And you tell me that you're pleased and that I'm never alone. -[191.18 --> 196.16] You're a good, good father. -[196.64 --> 198.24] It's who you are. -[198.92 --> 200.52] It's who you are. -[201.12 --> 202.92] It's who you are. -[202.92 --> 206.06] And I'm loved by you. -[206.48 --> 208.02] It's who I am. -[208.66 --> 210.62] It's who I am. -[211.32 --> 213.90] It's who I am. -[213.90 --> 223.90] Oh, and I've seen many searching for answers. -[224.90 --> 227.10] Far and wide. -[227.10 --> 234.06] But I know we're all searching for answers. -[234.48 --> 237.32] Only you provide cause. -[237.38 --> 245.56] You know just what we need before we say a word. -[245.56 --> 248.32] And you're a good, good father. -[248.74 --> 250.22] It's who you are. -[250.84 --> 252.72] It's who you are. -[253.30 --> 255.12] It's who you are. -[255.58 --> 258.04] And I'm loved by you. -[258.48 --> 260.18] It's who I am. -[260.18 --> 262.18] It's who I am. -[262.18 --> 265.18] It's who I am. -[265.18 --> 270.86] Because you are perfect in all of your ways. -[271.24 --> 275.94] You are perfect in all of your ways. -[275.94 --> 284.72] You are perfect in all of your ways to us. -[284.72 --> 311.66] Oh, it's love so undeniable. -[311.66 --> 317.66] I can hardly speak peace. -[317.66 --> 321.78] So unexplainable. -[321.78 --> 328.96] I can hardly think as you call me. -[329.36 --> 333.90] Deeper still as you call me. -[334.34 --> 338.88] Deeper still as you call me. -[338.88 --> 342.62] Deeper still into love. -[342.98 --> 344.88] Love, love. -[344.94 --> 347.56] You're a good, good father. -[348.00 --> 349.50] It's who you are. -[349.88 --> 352.06] It's who you are. -[352.56 --> 354.44] It's who you are. -[354.44 --> 357.50] And I'm loved by you. -[358.00 --> 359.52] It's who I am. -[360.06 --> 362.12] It's who I am. -[362.74 --> 364.70] It's who I am. -[364.70 --> 369.70] It's who you are. -[369.70 --> 371.94] It's who you are. -[372.44 --> 374.70] It's who you are. -[374.70 --> 377.32] And I'm loved by you. -[377.70 --> 379.30] It's who I am. -[379.70 --> 382.02] It's who I am. -[382.38 --> 384.26] It's who I am. -[384.26 --> 388.32] It's who I am. -[388.32 --> 391.44] It's who I am. -[391.44 --> 392.52] It's who you are. -[392.52 --> 394.26] It's who you are. -[394.26 --> 397.08] And I'm loved by you. -[397.08 --> 399.30] It's who I am. -[399.30 --> 401.72] It's who I am. -[401.72 --> 404.52] It's who I am. -[404.52 --> 416.52] It's who I am. -[416.52 --> 419.60] It's who I am. -[419.60 --> 421.64] It's who I am. -[422.02 --> 424.06] It's who I am. -[424.06 --> 454.04] I love you -[454.06 --> 458.10] I see you sitting over there with your head in your hands -[458.10 --> 461.04] And the mess life's made of your best laid plans -[461.04 --> 465.18] You really want to shake your fist, but you don't know who to blame -[465.18 --> 468.36] Well, you can blame yourself or the man upstairs -[468.36 --> 470.94] Or the guy on the screen who says he cares -[470.94 --> 473.70] But all the shame and the blame won't change a thing -[473.70 --> 475.02] What's done is done -[475.02 --> 477.88] Oh, but grace has just begun -[477.88 --> 481.64] And God says, I'm gonna turn it into something different -[481.64 --> 484.14] I'm gonna turn it into something good -[484.14 --> 489.36] I'm gonna take all the broken pieces and make something beautiful like only I could -[489.36 --> 491.96] So put it all in the hands of the Father -[491.96 --> 499.84] Give it up, give it all over to the only one who can turn it into something beautiful -[499.84 --> 505.46] Something really beautiful -[505.46 --> 509.88] We know the world got broke when it took the fall -[509.88 --> 512.48] And here we are living in the middle of it all -[512.48 --> 516.68] Longing, waiting for the day when everything's restored -[516.68 --> 519.98] But the best of the beauty that we get to see -[519.98 --> 522.72] While we're living down here and it's yet to be -[522.72 --> 526.56] Is to watch God take the most broken things and to hear Him say -[526.56 --> 530.22] When I get through, you're gonna be amazed -[530.22 --> 533.14] Cause I'm gonna turn it into something different -[533.14 --> 535.74] I'm gonna turn it into something good -[535.74 --> 540.98] I'm gonna take all the broken pieces and make something beautiful like only I could -[540.98 --> 543.54] So put it all in the hands of the Father -[543.54 --> 547.58] Give it up, give it all over to the only one who can turn it into something good -[547.58 --> 559.90] Good morning -[559.90 --> 564.66] There was like a definitive hush that settled over the crowd that time -[564.66 --> 564.94] Wow -[564.94 --> 567.46] Welcome to church -[567.46 --> 568.38] Welcome to worship -[568.38 --> 572.44] A special welcome if you are a guest here with us this morning -[572.44 --> 573.34] My name is Chris -[573.34 --> 579.74] I'm one of the pastors here and it's my privilege to lead in our shared worship together this morning -[579.74 --> 582.54] Before we begin, we have a couple announcements to make -[582.54 --> 586.48] The first of which is regarding Mexico Mission -[586.48 --> 592.62] So currently, our church has a group of young people and leaders in Mexico -[592.62 --> 595.94] Serving in East TJ and Rosarito -[595.94 --> 600.56] They come back on Tuesday and we need people to pick them up -[600.56 --> 606.68] And so we have rides home for 14 of the 22 currently -[606.68 --> 615.82] And so we need another vehicle or probably two to go down on Tuesday with us as we pick them up -[615.82 --> 619.18] And so if you're able to do that, please just grab me after service -[619.18 --> 621.50] So we can get that coordinated -[621.50 --> 623.62] And get going -[623.62 --> 627.44] They have to be picked up at 5 p.m. from Seattle SeaTac -[627.44 --> 628.70] Now -[628.70 --> 633.04] Here's something to encourage you to do that -[633.04 --> 637.20] We got a message yesterday from Brandon who's leading the team there -[637.20 --> 642.00] They hosted a reactivate style conference -[642.00 --> 643.30] Yesterday -[643.30 --> 647.14] And so reactivate is a conference that we host here for youth -[647.14 --> 649.84] We have about 200 youth and leaders who come -[649.84 --> 658.56] They hosted the first ever reactivate style conference at pastor abelino's church in the slums of east TJ -[658.56 --> 663.58] And they had over 150 youth and participants show up to that event -[663.58 --> 666.32] Which is absolutely amazing -[666.32 --> 673.90] And so you can imagine the stories that the youth in the team is going to tell on the way home -[673.90 --> 678.96] So you get to hear those firsthand and right away as you drive them back -[678.96 --> 681.96] Which is one of the unique privileges of driving and picking them up -[681.96 --> 685.94] So encourage you to think about whether or not you're able to do that -[685.94 --> 694.50] And then also pastor kevin has asked that I remind you youth and parents of youth that youth camp -[694.50 --> 698.68] Registration is out and closes on march 30th -[698.68 --> 700.50] Which is next week sunday -[700.50 --> 704.78] And so if you haven't yet registered or registered your child for youth camp -[704.78 --> 707.24] Please do that this week coming up -[707.24 --> 709.70] That's it for our announcements this morning -[709.70 --> 712.08] So i'm going to invite you as you are able and where you are -[712.08 --> 717.06] You might stand together as we enter into the presence of god in worship -[717.06 --> 729.42] I invite you to receive god's greeting his welcome into this sacred space of worship together -[729.42 --> 731.18] Receive the greeting of our god -[731.18 --> 732.72] Grace -[732.72 --> 734.12] Mercy -[734.12 --> 742.12] And peace to you from god our father from the lord jesus christ his son and our savior through the presence and power of the holy spirit -[742.12 --> 743.48] Amen -[759.42 --> 789.40] Psalm 89 verses 1 to 3 -[789.40 --> 789.86] He says -[789.86 --> 792.66] I will sing of the lord's great love forever -[792.66 --> 794.36] With my mouth -[794.36 --> 797.70] I will make your faithfulness known through all generations -[797.70 --> 800.86] I will declare that your love stands firm forever -[800.86 --> 804.90] That you have established your faithfulness in heaven itself -[804.90 --> 809.20] So why don't we join our voices and just celebrate god's love and faithfulness this morning -[809.20 --> 827.74] Come all ye weary come all ye thirsty come to the well that never runs dry drink of the one that never runs dry -[827.74 --> 843.32] Come all you weary, come all you thirsty, come to the well that never runs right. Drink of the water, come and thirst no more. -[843.32 --> 862.32] Come all you sinners, come find His mercy, come to the table, He will satisfy. Taste of His goodness, find what you're looking for. -[862.32 --> 878.58] For God so loved the world that He gave us, His one and only Son to save us. Whoever believes in Him will live forever. -[878.58 --> 897.84] Bring all your failures, bring your addictions, come lay them down at the foot of the cross. Jesus is waiting there with open arms. -[897.84 --> 913.84] For God so loved the world that He gave us, His one and only Son to save us. Whoever believes in Him will live forever. -[913.84 --> 932.84] The power of hell forever defeated, how it is well. I'm walking in freedom for God so loved, God so loved the world. -[932.84 --> 952.16] Praise God, praise God, praise God, from whom all blessings flow. Praise Him, praise Him, for the wonders of His love. -[952.16 --> 971.48] Praise God, praise God, praise God, from whom all blessings flow. Praise Him, praise Him, for the wonders of His love. -[971.48 --> 1001.46] Praise God, praise Him, for the wonders of His love. -[1001.48 --> 1031.46] Praise God, praise Him, for the wonders of His love. -[1031.58 --> 1035.84] Praise God, praise Him, for God. -[1036.48 --> 1041.42] OFF -[1061.48 --> 1072.42] You unravel me with a melody -[1072.42 --> 1079.08] You surround me with a song -[1079.08 --> 1086.20] Of deliverance from my enemies -[1086.20 --> 1092.52] Till all my fears are gone -[1092.52 --> 1099.20] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1099.20 --> 1105.88] I am a child of God -[1105.88 --> 1112.92] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1112.92 --> 1119.24] I am a child of God -[1119.24 --> 1132.56] From my mother's womb -[1132.56 --> 1136.24] You have chosen me -[1136.24 --> 1141.94] Love has called my name -[1141.94 --> 1145.78] I've been born again -[1145.78 --> 1148.48] Into your family -[1148.48 --> 1155.06] Your blood rose through my veins -[1155.06 --> 1161.38] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1161.38 --> 1168.02] I am a child of God -[1168.02 --> 1174.52] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1174.52 --> 1180.84] I am a child of God -[1180.84 --> 1187.42] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1187.42 --> 1193.84] I am a child of God -[1193.84 --> 1207.16] I am a child of God -[1207.16 --> 1224.56] You split the sea so I could walk right through it -[1224.56 --> 1228.48] My fears were drowned in perfect love -[1228.48 --> 1236.80] You rescued me so I could walk right through it -[1236.80 --> 1241.80] I am a child of God -[1241.80 --> 1249.68] You split the sea so I could walk right through it -[1249.68 --> 1256.00] My fears were drowned in perfect love -[1256.00 --> 1261.50] You rescued me so I could stand and sing -[1261.50 --> 1267.00] I am a child of God -[1267.00 --> 1272.32] I am a child of God -[1272.32 --> 1275.32] I am a child of God -[1275.32 --> 1279.82] I am a child of God -[1279.82 --> 1282.32] I am a child of God -[1282.32 --> 1288.72] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1288.72 --> 1295.04] I am a child of God -[1295.04 --> 1297.04] I am a child of God -[1297.04 --> 1302.10] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[1302.10 --> 1308.04] I am a child of God -[1308.04 --> 1312.38] I invite you to be seated -[1312.38 --> 1322.44] Last week I walked into the lobby -[1322.44 --> 1325.56] And I was reading the verse that's on the wall there -[1325.56 --> 1327.46] Matthew 11, 28-29 -[1327.46 --> 1330.10] It just got me thinking a little bit -[1330.10 --> 1331.78] It says, -[1331.88 --> 1334.04] Come to me, all who are weary and burdened -[1334.04 --> 1335.10] And I will give you rest -[1335.10 --> 1337.88] Take my yoke upon you and learn from me -[1337.88 --> 1340.62] For I am quiet and humble in heart -[1340.62 --> 1344.12] And you will find rest for your souls -[1344.12 --> 1349.96] I just find that we can be so distracted by our own failures -[1349.96 --> 1352.64] Distracted by even cultural values -[1352.64 --> 1354.12] Life pressures -[1354.12 --> 1356.84] Mouth is dry -[1356.84 --> 1359.12] Life pressures -[1359.12 --> 1362.84] If we're honest with each other and ourselves -[1362.84 --> 1364.64] There's a long list of distractions -[1364.64 --> 1369.10] We can hardly hear the voice of Jesus offering us rest -[1369.10 --> 1371.82] So I thought this Lent season is a good time -[1371.82 --> 1373.40] To take him at his offer -[1373.40 --> 1377.44] To take his yoke upon us -[1377.44 --> 1380.48] And to rest in the victory he has won -[1380.48 --> 1383.02] And to live in his love -[1383.02 --> 1386.48] So let his gentle, humble heart -[1386.48 --> 1389.94] Draw us into a life filled with his love -[1389.94 --> 1392.30] Let's bow our heads -[1392.30 --> 1398.32] Father, will you by your spirit quiet our hearts -[1398.32 --> 1401.86] So we can hear your invitation to rest in you -[1401.86 --> 1405.90] Forgive us for allowing -[1405.90 --> 1408.36] The concerns of this life -[1408.36 --> 1409.80] To drown out your voice -[1409.80 --> 1412.40] In this Lent season -[1412.40 --> 1415.34] Help us to reflect on your sacrifice -[1415.34 --> 1418.12] Your love poured out for us -[1418.12 --> 1422.36] Quiet us and enfold us in your love -[1422.36 --> 1425.40] We need you every hour -[1425.40 --> 1426.42] Amen -[1426.42 --> 1430.60] Why don't we stand and continue worship -[1435.90 --> 1444.76] Thank you -[1458.72 --> 1461.46] Thank you -[1461.46 --> 1465.56] Michael -[1465.56 --> 1482.28] I need Thee every hour, most gracious Lord, no tender voice like Thy can peace afford. -[1482.28 --> 1499.10] I need Thee, O I need Thee, every hour I need Thee, O bless me now, my Savior, I come to Thee. -[1499.10 --> 1516.52] I need Thee every hour, stay Thou nearby, temptations lose their power when Thou art gone. -[1516.52 --> 1533.28] I need Thee, O I need Thee, every hour I need Thee, O bless me now, my Savior, I come to Thee. -[1533.28 --> 1552.26] I need Thee every hour, enjoy your pain, come quickly and abide, for life is vain. -[1552.26 --> 1570.26] I need Thee, O I need Thee, every hour I need Thee, O bless me now, my Savior, I come to Thee. -[1570.26 --> 1588.26] I need Thee every hour, most holy one, O make me Thine indeed, Thou blessed Son. -[1588.26 --> 1605.26] I need Thee every hour, most holy one, my Savior, I come to Thee. -[1618.26 --> 1648.24] I need Thee every hour, most holy one, my Savior, I come to Thee, O bless me now, my Savior, I come to Thee. -[1648.24 --> 1678.22] I need Thee every hour, most holy one, my Savior, I come to Thee, O bless me now, my Savior, I come to Thee. -[1678.24 --> 1689.24] Sing a new song, sing a new song, to hear new sin song, Heaven's mercy sing. -[1689.24 --> 1703.02] Holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come. -[1703.02 --> 1719.02] With all creation I sing, praise to the King of kings, you are my everything, and I will adore you. -[1719.02 --> 1742.02] Golden rainbows, a living color, flashes of lightning, rolls of thunder. -[1742.02 --> 1744.02] Golden rainbows, a living color, heavy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come. -[1744.02 --> 1746.02] Golden rainbows, a living color, most holy is the Lord God Almighty, who is and is and is to come. -[1746.02 --> 1749.06] in honor strength and glory -[1749.06 --> 1750.10] glory -[1750.10 --> 1754.98] to you the only wise -[1754.98 --> 1757.06] king -[1757.06 --> 1761.06] holy holy holy -[1761.06 --> 1763.86] is the lord god almighty -[1763.86 --> 1769.06] who was and is and is to come -[1769.06 --> 1773.22] with all creation -[1773.22 --> 1777.22] i sing praise to the king of me -[1777.22 --> 1781.22] you are my everything -[1781.22 --> 1787.22] and i will adore you -[1797.22 --> 1801.22] filled with wonder -[1801.22 --> 1805.22] all struck wonder -[1805.22 --> 1809.22] at the mention of your name -[1809.22 --> 1813.22] filled with wonder -[1813.22 --> 1817.22] all struck wonder -[1817.22 --> 1825.22] at the mention of your name -[1825.22 --> 1827.22] filled with wonder -[1827.22 --> 1831.22] all struck wonder -[1831.22 --> 1841.22] and the mention of your name -[1841.22 --> 1843.22] breath of -[1843.22 --> 1845.22] breath of living water -[1845.22 --> 1848.44] Such a marvelous mystery. -[1851.84 --> 1861.90] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come. -[1864.34 --> 1870.66] With all creation I sing praise to the King of kings. -[1870.66 --> 1877.36] You are my everything and I will adore you. -[1878.26 --> 1887.88] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come. -[1890.88 --> 1896.56] With all creation I sing praise to the King of kings. -[1896.56 --> 1904.26] You are my everything and I will adore you. -[1904.26 --> 1915.66] I invite you to be seated. -[1915.66 --> 1916.66] Amen. -[1916.66 --> 1917.66] Amen. -[1917.66 --> 1919.66] Amen. -[1922.10 --> 1931.84] This morning in our worship together we have the blessed opportunity to welcome a new member into our church fellowship. -[1932.26 --> 1938.26] This morning we're going to welcome Aidan Eyre into our church family. -[1938.44 --> 1941.66] Aidan has been worshiping with us for some time now. -[1941.66 --> 1945.44] He's a master's student at Trinity Western University. -[1945.98 --> 1949.80] He's working with the Canada Institute of Linguistics. -[1950.78 --> 1953.46] He's originally from Calgary where he still has family. -[1954.02 --> 1959.86] And in fact he's going to share a little bit with us later what he's up to and what God is calling him to. -[1960.00 --> 1965.10] Because it's a neat opportunity I think for us to encourage him and support him in that work too. -[1965.10 --> 1972.30] But to do that Aidan I want to invite you to the front as we welcome you into the fellowship of this church. -[1972.40 --> 1975.18] We're going to do so with a couple questions where you can reaffirm your faith. -[1975.28 --> 1977.02] Just come up here and then you can have a microphone. -[1980.94 --> 1987.90] So this morning we're going to ask that you reaffirm your faith and your commitment to God's mission in and through Langley Emanuel. -[1988.08 --> 1993.82] Us here to our city, to our region, and to the world through what God is doing in our midst. -[1993.82 --> 1999.56] So I'm going to ask you three questions and I'm going to invite you to respond by saying adieu with God's help. -[2002.94 --> 2010.92] As we welcome you into this church family we ask you to affirm your faith that you have professed and your commitment to God's mission among us. -[2011.48 --> 2017.92] And so do you believe in Jesus as your Savior and Lord and that in him alone is hope and freedom from sin found? -[2017.92 --> 2026.92] Do you believe that the Bible is the word of God revealing his plan for redemption in Jesus Christ and the preaching and teaching of Langley Emanuel reflect this truth? -[2026.92 --> 2035.68] And do you promise with the help of the Holy Spirit to do all you can to strengthen your relationship to Jesus by being a part of the life of this church, -[2035.84 --> 2044.10] recognizing its oversight and authority, and joining with us on mission for Jesus in this community, this city, and to the world? -[2044.58 --> 2045.74] Aidan, what is your answer? -[2046.38 --> 2047.72] I do with God's help. -[2047.86 --> 2048.12] Amen. -[2048.12 --> 2048.24] Amen. -[2048.80 --> 2051.38] Let's welcome Aidan to our church family together. -[2058.02 --> 2063.08] Because what Aidan is up to at Trinity, I think, is really cool, -[2063.50 --> 2068.76] I've asked if he would share a little bit about his story and what brought him to this place and what he sees God doing. -[2069.14 --> 2070.94] So we're going to hear from Aidan at this point. -[2071.18 --> 2074.68] After which, I'm going to invite an elder to come up, so don't run away at the end. -[2074.88 --> 2075.20] Go ahead. -[2075.20 --> 2076.64] All right. -[2076.86 --> 2077.58] Hey, everyone. -[2077.80 --> 2079.20] I am Aidan Eyre. -[2079.72 --> 2086.66] I'm from Calgary, and I'm currently taking a master's program in linguistics and translation at Trinity Western University, -[2087.34 --> 2090.64] hoping to join in the ministry of Bible translation. -[2091.48 --> 2095.62] My parents have both been with Wycliffe Bible Translators since before I was born. -[2096.30 --> 2102.46] And so, I mean, they never actually worked overseas, but they did sort of administrative roles here in North America. -[2102.46 --> 2110.32] And so I kind of grew up in that whole world, knowing about Bible translation, hearing stories around the world. -[2110.62 --> 2117.80] But it wasn't really until halfway through my undergraduate degree that he started to give me my own strong calling for it. -[2117.80 --> 2125.90] I got the chance to attend a summer program out at CanIL, the Canada Institute of Linguistics, which is at Trinity Western. -[2125.90 --> 2131.08] And just seeing people's passion and hearing the stories of God's work all around the world. -[2131.64 --> 2136.50] It's just so inspiring and just really cut through to my heart. -[2136.50 --> 2143.72] And so, yeah, I decided to start my own master's program in June of 2023. -[2144.02 --> 2147.62] So I'm just about two years in with one year left to go. -[2147.70 --> 2149.94] And after that, I intend to join Wycliffe myself. -[2149.94 --> 2158.70] And I'm just so glad that God's brought me where he has because he's surrounded me with some of the most amazing godly people that I've ever met. -[2158.90 --> 2163.42] And they've just blessed me in so many ways with their depth of character and Bible knowledge. -[2163.62 --> 2165.14] It just astounds me. -[2165.26 --> 2167.48] And it's just taught me so much. -[2167.48 --> 2183.24] And he's also given me an intense compassion for minority language groups because these are often people who have kind of been forgotten, cast out, ostracized, even looked down upon by other members of society. -[2184.08 --> 2195.64] The government doesn't recognize them in most cases as having official status, even though they've usually been there for generations and generations before the larger languages have. -[2195.64 --> 2209.56] But it forces them to have to learn these larger languages that have come in in order to communicate with other towns, but also often to be able to take in God's word. -[2210.08 --> 2217.10] They have to learn a separate language aside from their heart language in order to be able to intake God's word and his message to them. -[2217.10 --> 2228.96] And that just is sad to me because it kind of acts as an additional barrier for God to be able to effectively communicate to them and really speak into their hearts. -[2229.74 --> 2241.16] And so I just want to help work in Bible translation and help deliver God's word to them in the language that they know best and that speaks to them emotionally. -[2241.16 --> 2245.12] And there's just so much work that needs to be done. -[2245.74 --> 2254.24] There's about 7,000 languages in the world and only a little over 10% of those actually have a full Bible, which is such a small number. -[2254.24 --> 2259.20] I've started to feel God specifically calling me to Africa. -[2259.96 --> 2267.20] And so in order to help prepare me for that, he's actually given me an amazing opportunity to spend three months in Africa this summer. -[2267.92 --> 2279.24] And so I'll be going with a Wycliffe team in May to visit language communities in South Africa and Namibia, just kind of seeing parts of the translation process and helping get involved in scripture engagement activities. -[2279.24 --> 2297.46] And then I'll get to spend June and July helping teach a linguistics class at a training school in Nairobi, Kenya, with the focus of helping train local translators from all across the continent of Africa in order to better equip them with the linguistic skills that will help in their translation efforts. -[2297.46 --> 2298.46] Yeah. -[2300.46 --> 2315.08] And so I just can't wait for the chance to see God's word in action in those tangible ways, transforming lives, but also to see the transformation that he'll inevitably be taking me through, both through this trip this summer, but also through the crazy life that he's calling me into. -[2316.36 --> 2316.70] Yeah. -[2316.88 --> 2317.70] So thank you. -[2318.06 --> 2322.92] I'm so excited to join this community over the next year and beyond. -[2324.30 --> 2325.18] Thanks for that. -[2327.46 --> 2328.42] Eric up to the front. -[2328.56 --> 2332.62] Eric is one of the pastoral elders here in our church community. -[2333.18 --> 2339.80] He's not the pastoral elder of the district that we have put you in because it's spring break and that pastoral elder isn't here. -[2340.32 --> 2342.92] But the one you're in is about the same height as Eric. -[2343.54 --> 2345.76] So you should be able to see him in a crowd. -[2345.86 --> 2348.72] I'll make sure Seth reaches out to you this week. -[2349.20 --> 2353.08] We're going to take a moment and just pray for Aidan and for God's call on his life. -[2353.08 --> 2356.58] So I invite you to join your heart with us in prayer together. -[2357.46 --> 2364.58] God, we thank you for the testimony of your faithfulness that Aidan shared with us just now. -[2365.12 --> 2371.14] We thank you for the calling that you've placed on his life and for the process of discernment that he is now in, -[2371.56 --> 2378.68] even as he grows in his skills and capacities, even as he exercises his response to your call. -[2378.68 --> 2391.02] We pray, Lord, for clarity of heart and mind as he listens to the voice of the Holy Spirit and discerns more precisely where it is you are calling him to go with your word. -[2391.40 --> 2401.08] And how it is that you are calling him to bring that word to unreached places, unreached people groups, and un-yet-translated languages. -[2401.08 --> 2405.66] God, you are so good and your word is so powerful. -[2405.66 --> 2416.38] And we thank you for people like Aidan who commit themselves and their lives to serving you by bringing your word into places it has not yet gone. -[2416.90 --> 2422.00] And so we pray, Lord God, accomplish your purpose in him and through him. -[2422.00 --> 2431.90] And may he be blessed as he joins our fellowship and may we, together as the body of Christ, be blessed for having him among us. -[2432.40 --> 2434.82] We pray this, Jesus, in your most holy name. -[2435.44 --> 2435.70] Amen. -[2437.00 --> 2437.32] Amen. -[2438.20 --> 2438.70] Thanks, Aidan. -[2439.34 --> 2441.78] We're going to continue our worship with the offering, -[2442.04 --> 2445.62] so I'm going to invite the deacon to come forward and explain what our offering this morning is. -[2452.00 --> 2460.26] Good morning, everyone. -[2460.50 --> 2465.90] Welcome, Aidan, and thank you for your global perspective this morning. -[2467.18 --> 2472.18] The offering, my name is Allison, first of all, and I'm a deacon here at the church. -[2472.84 --> 2480.86] The offerings, we are supporting this morning, first of all, the budget for the workings of the church here. -[2480.86 --> 2484.82] The other one is also kind of global. -[2486.38 --> 2488.46] It's a ministry to seafarers. -[2489.24 --> 2493.14] There are two locations, one in Vancouver, one in Tawasson. -[2494.14 --> 2501.66] And the volunteers there go visit the seafarers on the ships up to 40 roughly a month. -[2502.00 --> 2508.12] That's a huge number of people from all over the world, and they come to our harbors. -[2508.12 --> 2514.02] And the volunteers of the ministry to seafarers help them. -[2514.28 --> 2515.42] They take them to appointments. -[2515.80 --> 2524.12] They have safe places for the seafarers to go to contact their families that they're separated from for months, -[2524.92 --> 2526.54] sometimes years at a time. -[2526.54 --> 2531.60] So that's what we're supporting this morning. -[2532.12 --> 2533.98] And there are multiple ways. -[2534.44 --> 2535.22] Check your bulletin. -[2535.32 --> 2538.66] Check the website for ways to give to both those. -[2539.66 --> 2540.16] Thank you. -[2540.16 --> 2543.30] Thank you. -[2547.70 --> 2569.70] Thank you. -[2569.70 --> 2583.70] Your faithfulness stretches to the sky. -[2583.70 --> 2593.70] Your righteousness is what reminds mountains. -[2593.70 --> 2602.70] Your justice flows like the ocean top. -[2602.70 --> 2612.70] And I will lift my arms to worship you, my being. -[2612.70 --> 2623.70] I will find my strength in the shadow of your wings. -[2623.70 --> 2633.70] Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens. -[2633.70 --> 2643.70] Your faithfulness stretches to the sky. -[2643.70 --> 2652.70] Your righteousness is what reminds mountains. -[2652.70 --> 2661.70] Your justice flows like the ocean top. -[2661.70 --> 2671.70] I will lift my voice to worship you, my being. -[2671.70 --> 2680.70] I will find my strength in the shadow of your wings. -[2680.70 --> 2681.70] Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens. -[2681.70 --> 2682.70] Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens. -[2682.70 --> 2683.70] Your faithfulness is what makes me. -[2683.70 --> 2689.70] I will lift my voice to worship you, my being. -[2689.70 --> 2690.70] I will lift my voice to worship you, my being. -[2690.70 --> 2691.70] Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens. -[2691.70 --> 2692.70] Your faithfulness stretches to the sky. -[2692.70 --> 2693.70] I will lift my voice to worship you, my being. -[2693.70 --> 2694.70] Your faithfulness is what makes me. -[2694.70 --> 2695.70] Your faithfulness is what makes me. -[2695.70 --> 2696.70] Your faithfulness is what makes me. -[2696.70 --> 2697.70] Your faithfulness is what makes me. -[2697.70 --> 2702.70] Thank you, my God. -[2702.70 --> 2703.70] Amen! -[2703.70 --> 2707.70] Your faithfulness is what makes me. -[2707.72 --> 2721.70] Amen! -[2727.70 --> 2736.70] Good morning everybody. Can I have the preschool to grade four come up to the front? -[2736.70 --> 2752.70] You were a rocket ship, yeah. What kind of weather do we have outside today? Rainy. I found it kind of ironic as I was driving here. -[2752.70 --> 2759.70] It was pouring rain. You could barely see. And our story today is Jesus calms the storm. -[2759.70 --> 2771.70] So what do you think when it's craziness outside, how do we feel? Wet, but like how do we feel inside? -[2771.70 --> 2778.70] Are we worried? Are we scared? What if it's thunder and lightning coming down? -[2778.70 --> 2783.70] Sometimes we're scared, yeah. Mateo, what do you think? -[2791.70 --> 2796.70] You wonder how it's going to calm the storm and Jesus is going to help us? Yeah, definitely. -[2796.70 --> 2803.70] What do you think when there's a snowstorm outside? We go inside, definitely. -[2803.70 --> 2812.70] But today we're going to learn when it's stormy, so whether it's raining, whether it's too hot, that can be kind of a storm, a dust storm, -[2812.70 --> 2824.70] snow storm, that Jesus is always there and he reminds us to be still and calm and listen and he will help us through it. -[2824.70 --> 2828.70] We're going to go more about that in children's worship time, so I'm going to get you guys to stand up. -[2828.70 --> 2838.70] Stand up. Yeah. And everybody look, turn around. Ready? One, two, three. -[2838.70 --> 2840.70] We'll be with you. -[2840.70 --> 2842.70] We'll be with you. -[2858.70 --> 2874.70] We'll be with you. -[2875.70 --> 2881.70] Always great to be in God's church with his people. -[2881.70 --> 2890.70] Welcome, Aidan. And I'm going to get in trouble for this, but Lena, it's awesome to see you back. Praise God. -[2892.70 --> 2898.70] My first duty is to read a letter from Council, a short letter about nominations. -[2898.70 --> 2904.70] Council is calling for nominations of people to serve as elders and deacons in our church. -[2904.70 --> 2909.70] This season we are looking for pastoral elders and for deacons. -[2909.70 --> 2915.70] Pastoral elders serve the church by providing shepherding care and theological discernment. -[2915.70 --> 2925.70] Working closely with our pastors, deacons serve the church by providing material care and service discernment in our church family and community. -[2925.70 --> 2932.70] Both of these positions call for people mature in faith who share the mission and vision of our church. -[2932.70 --> 2939.70] Please prayerfully discern who the Holy Spirit may be calling to serve our church in this way. -[2939.70 --> 2950.70] Nomination forms are available at the church office beside the confidential mailbox and will be in the e-bulletin and the mid-week memo after spring break. -[2950.70 --> 2957.70] If you have any questions, please talk to any of the elders and deacons or church pastors. -[2957.70 --> 2969.70] This morning we want to remember the people who are challenged. I'll call them challenged. We're all challenged, I think. -[2969.70 --> 2977.70] But I want to focus on Tara Porter. She's asking for prayer for her husband and for her brother-in-law. -[2977.70 --> 2991.70] We've prayed Sunday after Sunday for Tessa, for Tanya, for Doug Kandon, and a host of others who are dealing with stuff we may not know about, but God certainly does. -[2991.70 --> 2999.70] And then we also want to thank the shut-ins. We have members that can't physically join us, but would probably love to. -[2999.70 --> 3006.70] And then it's time to go to God in prayer. So let's pray. -[3006.70 --> 3018.70] Father, Lord in heaven, Lord, thank you. Thank you that we can be here. Thank you that we can live amongst your people. -[3018.70 --> 3035.70] Lord, we pray for the people we just spoke about, each one who's going through stuff that we'd rather not, but we pray we bless each person as they deal with their treatments or sicknesses or whatever it is, Lord. -[3035.70 --> 3042.70] Lord, we want to ask you to bless the nomination process. -[3042.70 --> 3054.70] Lord, if we look at Scripture and study about Jesus, and the day before he picked his disciples, he spent the whole evening in prayer. -[3054.70 --> 3059.70] Lord, and we would think that he wouldn't have to do this, but because he was your son. -[3059.70 --> 3064.70] Lord, and how many of us, Lord, spend even half the night in prayer? -[3064.70 --> 3069.70] Lord, will you convict us for things we could do better? -[3069.70 --> 3074.70] Time we spent in your word, time we spend in prayer. -[3074.70 --> 3081.70] Lord, who else calls us to share time with you? -[3081.70 --> 3086.70] Lord, it is only because of you that we are even here. -[3086.70 --> 3090.70] It is only because of you that each of us has another day. -[3090.70 --> 3094.70] Lord, we pray for the young among us. We pray for wisdom. -[3094.70 --> 3100.70] We pray for the teachers who teach them. We pray for the parents, the moms and the dads. -[3100.70 --> 3106.70] Lord, and then when school is done, work starts, or maybe even before. -[3106.70 --> 3114.70] We pray for the jobs each of us has, whatever it is, Lord, if it's in the home or outside the home, or whatever you've called us to do. -[3114.70 --> 3118.70] Lord, we pray will you help us to focus on you while we're doing this. -[3118.70 --> 3126.70] Lord, if there's a word we can share with somebody that we work with, we pray will you give us the opportunity and the wisdom, -[3126.70 --> 3132.70] and not a cutting or challenging, but a loving and caring word. -[3132.70 --> 3141.70] Lord, we pray this morning as we hear your word that Chris may be enlightened, that it may be a word from you, Lord. -[3141.70 --> 3145.70] We thank you for your many blessings, Lord. We pray will you help and guide us. -[3145.70 --> 3150.70] We pray also for the people who are going for surgery this week, Lord. -[3150.70 --> 3156.70] We pray will you give them strength, give the doctors wisdom, and the nurses insight. -[3156.70 --> 3161.70] Thank you for your love and care, Lord. Thank you that we can be here in Jesus' name. Amen. -[3162.70 --> 3191.70] Here at Emmanuel, we have been in a preaching series through the letters of the Thessalonians, of the Apostle Paul to the church in Thessalonica. -[3191.70 --> 3200.70] This morning, we continue that, and we're going to read the four verses from chapter 5, verses 12 through 15. -[3200.70 --> 3207.70] I'm going to invite you to have a Bible, either on your apps, on your devices and phones, or one that you brought. -[3207.70 --> 3209.70] Or if you'd like, there's some at the back you can grab. -[3209.70 --> 3214.70] Have that open. Keep that open. We'll refer back to that intentionally throughout. -[3214.70 --> 3219.70] The first time through, it will be on the screen behind me there for you. -[3219.70 --> 3231.70] Now, before I read this text, I want you to know that I really struggled this week in how to do this, and how to preach on this text. -[3231.70 --> 3236.70] For reasons I hope will become clear once we start reading it together. -[3236.70 --> 3244.70] But let me just say that this is one of the reasons, texts like these, is one of the reasons why I like to preach in series, -[3244.70 --> 3248.70] where we start at the beginning of the book of the Bible and we go through to the end of it, -[3248.70 --> 3253.70] because it forces me to preach on topics that I might otherwise avoid. -[3253.70 --> 3266.70] And the reason I'm saying that is because the first half of this text that we are about to read is Paul telling the church how they're supposed to acknowledge and treat their leaders. -[3266.70 --> 3274.70] And so I don't want it to appear for me to stand up here and then tell you how you're supposed to pander to me. -[3274.70 --> 3280.70] And so I really, really wrestled with this text that I'm inviting you into that wrestling. -[3280.70 --> 3289.70] And one of the things that I did as I prepared for this was to make sure and search my own heart and life -[3289.70 --> 3298.70] to see if this kind of recognition of good leadership in the church is something that I strive for, -[3298.70 --> 3307.70] is the posture that I try to have in my leading and that I try to present to you so that, Lord willing, you can see it. -[3307.70 --> 3312.70] And then if you choose to acknowledge it, great. -[3312.70 --> 3324.70] It is also amazing to me that as we are about to spend a good portion of our time talking about what makes good leaders in the church -[3324.70 --> 3332.70] and how we acknowledge good leaders, it happens to providentially fall on the Sunday that we also announce nominations for new leaders. -[3332.70 --> 3342.70] And so as you hear these descriptions, may the Holy Spirit press on your heart who God might be calling to serve this church in this way. -[3342.70 --> 3356.70] And so I please, I beg your patience and I hope you see my humility, but also my unwillingness to compromise the word of God. -[3356.70 --> 3361.70] And to call you to the things that God calls us to. -[3361.70 --> 3372.70] And so if you have a problem with what I say this morning, please wait till Tuesday of next week, like the week after next, because I'm off this next week. -[3372.70 --> 3377.70] Or talk to Paul as the chair of council. -[3377.70 --> 3396.70] Secondly, by way of introduction and before we read this text, I do want to remind us that the kinds of things that we are being called to here in the word of God is a calling for people who are Christians. -[3396.70 --> 3397.70] Right? -[3397.70 --> 3398.70] Right? -[3398.70 --> 3413.70] And this is a specific reality that those who have received the gospel of grace by faith, who have been, as a result of that, made into a new creation, are now challenged by God to live in line with this new creation. -[3413.70 --> 3414.70] Right? -[3414.70 --> 3422.70] And so because Jesus has already lived the life I should have lived, because Jesus has already died the death that I deserve because of my sin, -[3422.70 --> 3428.70] because the truth of the matter is I'm more sinful than I would ever dare admit. -[3428.70 --> 3432.70] Yet I'm more loved by God than I could ever imagine possible. -[3432.70 --> 3441.70] And out of that deep love for us, that God has made us into a new creation by believing in the truth of this word. -[3441.70 --> 3445.70] We are made a new people who live new lives together. -[3445.70 --> 3453.70] And so the foundation of this text is the gospel and our new identity as Christians. -[3453.70 --> 3458.70] And this then is how we are called to lead and to live. -[3458.70 --> 3464.70] So with those two words of introduction, let's read this text together. -[3464.70 --> 3469.70] 1 Thessalonians 5, starting at verse 12. -[3469.70 --> 3479.70] Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. -[3479.70 --> 3484.70] Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. -[3484.70 --> 3487.70] Live in peace with each other. -[3487.70 --> 3494.70] And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive. -[3494.70 --> 3496.70] Encourage the disheartened. -[3496.70 --> 3497.70] Help the weak. -[3497.70 --> 3499.70] Be patient with everyone. -[3499.70 --> 3502.70] Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, -[3502.70 --> 3508.70] but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else. -[3508.70 --> 3510.70] This is the word of the Lord. -[3510.70 --> 3526.70] The way that I want to frame the text for us this morning is to identify these two sections in these verses as two marks of a healthy church. -[3526.70 --> 3533.70] So our big idea, right, is that the marks of a healthy church are, one, how leaders are acknowledged. -[3533.70 --> 3537.70] That is how they are held up, how they are encouraged, respected, and held accountable. -[3537.70 --> 3542.70] And two, how people look out for each other in the body. -[3542.70 --> 3550.70] Now, there's a grammatical reason for this division, and I'll give this for Aidan, who can probably get it, and maybe Cole, who follows along as well. -[3550.70 --> 3557.70] But there's an imperative structure being connected to the vocative voice here that gives you the division where we read in verse 12, -[3557.70 --> 3564.70] Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, and then later down the line in verse 14, -[3564.70 --> 3567.70] we urge you, brothers and sisters. -[3567.70 --> 3572.70] There's two sections, two marks of identifying a healthy church. -[3572.70 --> 3575.70] So it's pretty easy for us to see. -[3575.70 --> 3581.70] Those are the divisions we're going to follow in our time together this morning. -[3581.70 --> 3590.70] And so first, we read that we are to acknowledge those who work hard among you. -[3590.70 --> 3599.70] The word that's used here and translated acknowledged is related to another Greek word that means to see, -[3599.70 --> 3606.70] which is itself related to a Hebrew word or concept that means to know. -[3606.70 --> 3615.70] And so to acknowledge someone in the biblical sense here is to really see them and to really know them. -[3615.70 --> 3621.70] To be seen and known in the Bible is to look on someone with favor. -[3621.70 --> 3623.70] And it's more than just saying thank you. -[3623.70 --> 3626.70] It's more than just saying good job. -[3626.70 --> 3629.70] It's a genuine appreciation. -[3629.70 --> 3631.70] Let me illustrate. -[3631.70 --> 3639.70] Maybe you're a student and perhaps this is true for a senior, high school senior project or paper that you had to write. -[3639.70 --> 3643.70] You poured yourself into that paper in doing that project. -[3643.70 --> 3650.70] And not only did you get a good grade on it, but when the teacher was handing those back out, -[3650.70 --> 3655.70] they made a point to draw everyone else's attention to how standout your work was. -[3655.70 --> 3659.70] That's the kind of appreciation we're talking about here. -[3659.70 --> 3669.70] Maybe you have started a job for the first time and you remember the first time your new supervisor pointed out your good work and how that made you feel. -[3669.70 --> 3672.70] That's what we're talking about here when we talk about being acknowledged. -[3672.70 --> 3673.70] Right? -[3673.70 --> 3677.70] A genuine knowing and being known. -[3677.70 --> 3680.70] Seeing and being seen. -[3680.70 --> 3683.70] And that's your job. -[3683.70 --> 3688.70] To see and know your leaders. -[3688.70 --> 3691.70] Which naturally then moves us to ask the following question. -[3691.70 --> 3695.70] What are the kinds of things we should acknowledge around here? -[3695.70 --> 3696.70] Right? -[3696.70 --> 3700.70] What are the things we're supposed to see and know about our leaders? -[3700.70 --> 3703.70] Our text lists three of them. -[3704.70 --> 3710.70] Lists those who work hard among you, those who care for you, and those who admonish you. -[3710.70 --> 3712.70] And so let's dig into this a little bit. -[3712.70 --> 3717.70] First, acknowledge those who work hard among you. -[3717.70 --> 3726.70] The word that's used for work hard among you means to be spent with labor. -[3726.70 --> 3729.70] Jesus actually uses the same word. -[3729.70 --> 3731.70] And it was a beautiful thing. -[3731.70 --> 3736.70] Pete in our worship referenced this text from Matthew 11, these words of Jesus. -[3736.70 --> 3737.70] When Jesus says, -[3737.70 --> 3741.70] Come to me, all who are weary and heavy laden. -[3741.70 --> 3745.70] That word weary is the same word that Paul uses in our text here. -[3747.70 --> 3748.70] Right? -[3748.70 --> 3754.70] That word, all who are weary, is the same word that Paul says, those who work hard among you. -[3755.70 --> 3758.70] The point is, good leaders work hard. -[3759.70 --> 3762.70] Good leaders are going to be tired at the end of the day. -[3762.70 --> 3765.70] And if you're a leader in the church, and this will be true of any leader, -[3765.70 --> 3771.70] but I think that this text is especially talking about church office leaders, -[3771.70 --> 3773.70] those who are ordained into a particular service. -[3773.70 --> 3776.70] So elders, deacons, pastors, evangelists. -[3776.70 --> 3777.70] Right? -[3777.70 --> 3780.70] This kind of hard work is demanding work. -[3780.70 --> 3784.70] It's not for the faint of heart, but it is for the soft of heart. -[3784.70 --> 3786.70] More on that later. -[3786.70 --> 3791.70] And this isn't just work, and to mix our definitions, this is labor. -[3791.70 --> 3799.70] Now the joke always is, you know, go be a pastor because you'll only work one day a week. -[3801.70 --> 3802.70] And that's fine. -[3802.70 --> 3803.70] If that's what you think. -[3804.70 --> 3808.70] That probably means I'm doing my job okay, and I'm exercising healthy boundaries, -[3808.70 --> 3810.70] and I'm not giving in to the culture of busyness around me. -[3810.70 --> 3816.70] But if we're more realistic about it, it should probably go and be a pastor, -[3816.70 --> 3818.70] and maybe you'll get one day a week off. -[3818.70 --> 3822.70] Now, again, don't hear what I'm not saying, okay? -[3822.70 --> 3823.70] Because I love this. -[3823.70 --> 3825.70] I love what I get to do. -[3825.70 --> 3829.70] I love that I get to do it with you and be in the mix of all of this. -[3829.70 --> 3832.70] But this is what it means to work hard among you. -[3832.70 --> 3839.70] And when we work hard among you, right, using this word, when we are spent with labor, -[3839.70 --> 3843.70] we get to hear Jesus say, come to me, all who are weary. -[3843.70 --> 3844.70] Right? -[3844.70 --> 3849.70] Laboring among you, I hear that as an invitation to Jesus himself. -[3849.70 --> 3850.70] Right? -[3850.70 --> 3857.70] We labor among the body so that we might rest in the body of Jesus as we experience him through one another. -[3857.70 --> 3869.70] And when you see your pastors and your elders and deacons and church leaders and maybe church staff laboring in this way, -[3869.70 --> 3875.70] we are inviting you into the rest of Jesus. -[3875.70 --> 3886.70] And when you see that, you ought to tell them, to acknowledge them, to say, I see you and I'm thankful to God for you. -[3886.70 --> 3887.70] Right? -[3887.70 --> 3893.70] To encourage them and to pray for them and to thank God for them, to support them, and yes, to pay them well. -[3893.70 --> 3894.70] There, I said it. -[3894.70 --> 3895.70] That's the last time. -[3895.70 --> 3896.70] Right? -[3896.70 --> 3899.70] Bless them with surprises. -[3899.70 --> 3900.70] Right? -[3900.70 --> 3902.70] Care for those who care for you. -[3902.70 --> 3907.70] And then if I may, that's my experience of you. -[3907.70 --> 3911.70] And I know that that is true for the other pastors here. -[3911.70 --> 3914.70] I pray that it is true for the elders and deacons who serve here. -[3914.70 --> 3921.70] But as you see this happen among you, acknowledge those. -[3921.70 --> 3925.70] Acknowledge those who care for you in the Lord. -[3925.70 --> 3927.70] That's the second part. -[3927.70 --> 3928.70] Right? -[3928.70 --> 3931.70] Acknowledge those who care for you in the Lord. -[3931.70 --> 3940.70] That term, translated care, is actually a particular and perhaps even more technical term. -[3940.70 --> 3952.70] The form that it's used here as a middle passive participle, again, Aidan, that's for you, means to direct or lead, to govern. -[3952.70 --> 3961.70] It's the same word, actually, that Paul uses in 1 Timothy 5, 17, about the elders who direct the affairs of the church. -[3961.70 --> 3963.70] That's how it's translated there. -[3963.70 --> 3964.70] Right? -[3964.70 --> 3986.70] And this is the word that leads me to conclude that this section is really about church leaders, specifically about elders, deacons, and pastors, who are together ordained to direct the affairs of the church as servant leaders, as ministers, as overseers. -[3986.70 --> 4003.70] And caring for you in the Lord means to govern the church, to lead well, to rule with an authority that represents the authority of Christ among us. -[4003.70 --> 4010.70] And this is confirmed with the third descriptive participle there, those who admonish you. -[4010.70 --> 4026.70] In his letter to the Ephesians, to the Ephesian elders, that's recorded for us in the book of Acts, Paul warns the elders of the church at Ephesus, and he says to them, and I think this one we have, -[4026.70 --> 4033.70] this one we have, keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. -[4033.70 --> 4036.70] There's the word, elders, leaders. -[4036.70 --> 4041.70] Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood. -[4041.70 --> 4043.70] So be on your guard. -[4043.70 --> 4050.70] Remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears. -[4050.70 --> 4064.70] Warning each of you is the same word in Acts that Luke writes with that Paul uses here in 1 Thessalonians 5, 12, for admonish. -[4064.70 --> 4067.70] Leaders warn you. -[4067.70 --> 4070.70] Leaders say be on the lookout. -[4070.70 --> 4075.70] Good leaders say don't be deceived by hollow and deceptive philosophy. -[4075.70 --> 4082.70] Leaders are the ones who stand in front of you and expose the vapid and empty spirituality of gospel substitutes, -[4082.70 --> 4086.70] and the ones who declare to you with boldness the real thing. -[4089.70 --> 4093.70] The ones who are weary in labor among you. -[4093.70 --> 4098.70] The ones who direct the affairs of the church who care enough to lead in the Lord, -[4098.70 --> 4104.70] and the ones who admonish you, who tell the truth to you when you are lying to yourselves. -[4104.70 --> 4113.70] Those are the ones that you are instructed to acknowledge, to see, and to know. -[4113.70 --> 4119.70] And in fact, that's what a healthy church does. -[4119.70 --> 4127.70] Verse 13 says, hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. -[4127.70 --> 4131.70] Hold them in the highest regard is parallel to acknowledge them. -[4131.70 --> 4134.70] And then to do so in love. -[4134.70 --> 4141.70] And so with my pastoral heart for you, I ask, -[4141.70 --> 4148.70] Are you quick to love or quick to complain? -[4148.70 --> 4158.70] Are you quick to tell someone how it should have been done? -[4158.70 --> 4161.70] And it's the same for those of us who work hard, right? -[4161.70 --> 4164.70] Do you love the church that you're called to lead? -[4164.70 --> 4168.70] Or do you complain about having to work hard? -[4168.70 --> 4175.70] Do you count it a privilege to enter into the lives of the saints around you? -[4175.70 --> 4182.70] Or do you struggle to see anything other than a bunch of sinners whose job it is to make you miserable? -[4182.70 --> 4187.70] How are you showing up? -[4187.70 --> 4191.70] And how are you acknowledging leaders who show up? -[4191.70 --> 4197.70] And then for everyone, we read, live in peace with each other. -[4197.70 --> 4206.70] Now, for a number of reasons based on grammar, this line seems like it could go out of place and maybe should belong with the second half. -[4206.70 --> 4210.70] But I think actually it belongs with this first half. -[4210.70 --> 4216.70] I think that this is a specific instruction for the church and church leader relationship. -[4216.70 --> 4218.70] Right? -[4218.70 --> 4220.70] There's two groups that are being held up here. -[4220.70 --> 4225.70] The brothers and sisters, the gathering of the church, and the leaders who rule. -[4225.70 --> 4227.70] The leaders who admonish and encourage. -[4227.70 --> 4230.70] The pastors who labor unto weariness. -[4230.70 --> 4235.70] The brothers and sisters and the ones called by the Holy Spirit to lead. -[4235.70 --> 4240.70] These are the two groups that are being told to live in peace with each other. -[4240.70 --> 4243.70] And so real candidly, this is you and I. -[4243.70 --> 4245.70] This is all y'all and we. -[4245.70 --> 4246.70] Right? -[4246.70 --> 4250.70] This is every one of us who call Emmanuel Church home and family. -[4250.70 --> 4252.70] We are charged with this peace. -[4252.70 --> 4257.70] This is all y'all and we all together take responsibility for this peace. -[4257.70 --> 4271.70] And it's this peace, this relationship dynamic between leaders and church family members that proves us to be a healthy church or not. -[4271.70 --> 4273.70] It takes leaders who work hard. -[4273.70 --> 4276.70] Leaders who care and leaders who admonish. -[4276.70 --> 4281.70] And a healthy church takes you to acknowledge them. -[4281.70 --> 4286.70] It takes you taking responsibility for the peace in the system. -[4286.70 --> 4293.70] In fact, I'm going to say that the lion's share of responsibility for this peace falls to you. -[4293.70 --> 4298.70] Because you are the consistent ones. -[4298.70 --> 4301.70] You are the ones who make culture here. -[4301.70 --> 4305.70] You are the ones who represent culture here. -[4305.70 --> 4308.70] Okay, hear me carefully on this. -[4308.70 --> 4310.70] Leaders come and go. -[4310.70 --> 4315.70] People serve in a church for a season and then they're out. -[4315.70 --> 4318.70] Either out of service or out of the church. -[4318.70 --> 4321.70] But culture is constant. -[4321.70 --> 4327.70] And if you keep a culture of loving those who lead by serving. -[4327.70 --> 4332.70] And if you keep a culture of acknowledging the leaders among you. -[4332.70 --> 4335.70] Of making peaceful environments for us to serve. -[4335.70 --> 4340.70] You will find that people aren't afraid to step into leadership. -[4340.70 --> 4343.70] You will find that people are more willing to step up. -[4343.70 --> 4346.70] When they will feel acknowledged and seen. -[4346.70 --> 4349.70] Rather than struggled with or complained about. -[4349.70 --> 4350.70] Right? -[4350.70 --> 4352.70] You create this culture. -[4352.70 --> 4358.70] And that's why you, brothers and sisters, are addressed here. -[4358.70 --> 4364.70] You show the mark of a healthy church just as much, maybe more. -[4364.70 --> 4367.70] Than those of us who are called to lead. -[4367.70 --> 4378.70] Now the second mark of a healthy church comes in the second half of this paragraph here. -[4378.70 --> 4380.70] In verse 14. -[4380.70 --> 4381.70] Where we read, -[4381.70 --> 4383.70] Re-urge you, brothers and sisters. -[4383.70 --> 4388.70] And then, if you have the eyes to see it, there are six imperatives listed there. -[4388.70 --> 4393.70] Six things a church should do as brothers and sisters for each other. -[4393.70 --> 4394.70] Right? -[4394.70 --> 4397.70] Warn those who are idle and disruptive. -[4397.70 --> 4398.70] Encourage the disheartened. -[4398.70 --> 4399.70] Help the weak. -[4399.70 --> 4401.70] Be patient with everyone. -[4401.70 --> 4403.70] Make sure nobody pays back. -[4403.70 --> 4404.70] Wrong for wrong. -[4404.70 --> 4405.70] And then six. -[4405.70 --> 4408.70] Always strive to do what is good. -[4408.70 --> 4413.70] And so now again, this is you. -[4413.70 --> 4415.70] This is your responsibility. -[4415.70 --> 4421.70] A healthy church will warn those who are idle and disruptive. -[4421.70 --> 4428.70] Now that word warn there is the same as the word in verse 12. -[4428.70 --> 4429.70] Right? -[4429.70 --> 4433.70] Who care for you and who admonish you. -[4433.70 --> 4435.70] Admonish you in the Lord. -[4435.70 --> 4439.70] Those who admonish you as a responsibility of leaders. -[4439.70 --> 4444.70] But now we're seeing that that responsibility also extends to the gathering of believers. -[4444.70 --> 4445.70] To warn. -[4445.70 --> 4446.70] To admonish. -[4446.70 --> 4447.70] To warn. -[4447.70 --> 4448.70] To admonish. -[4448.70 --> 4449.70] Right? -[4449.70 --> 4450.70] It's not just leaders who are to warn us. -[4450.70 --> 4455.70] But we're all supposed to admonish, to warn, and to encourage each other. -[4455.70 --> 4456.70] To hold each other accountable. -[4456.70 --> 4458.70] This is everyone's job. -[4458.70 --> 4459.70] And let's be really candid. -[4459.70 --> 4460.70] Right? -[4460.70 --> 4463.70] Because in our culture of politeness. -[4463.70 --> 4465.70] And our culture of tolerance. -[4465.70 --> 4466.70] Right? -[4466.70 --> 4468.70] It's really easy for you to sit there and go, -[4468.70 --> 4471.70] Well, who am I to tell them what to do? -[4471.70 --> 4472.70] I'm just as bad as they are. -[4472.70 --> 4473.70] Maybe even worse. -[4473.70 --> 4474.70] Right? -[4474.70 --> 4477.70] If they knew my heart, they would never listen to me. -[4477.70 --> 4481.70] Or it's also likely that someone might say, -[4481.70 --> 4482.70] Don't judge me. -[4482.70 --> 4484.70] You can't tell me what to do. -[4484.70 --> 4489.70] But this is exactly what we're supposed to do. -[4489.70 --> 4490.70] Right? -[4490.70 --> 4491.70] In love. -[4491.70 --> 4492.70] And with peace. -[4492.70 --> 4494.70] With gentleness and respect. -[4494.70 --> 4498.70] But you've got to warn each other against being idle and disruptive. -[4498.70 --> 4503.70] And there's two senses then that this Greek word is at work. -[4503.70 --> 4508.70] The word that's translated idle and disruptive is one word in Greek. -[4508.70 --> 4512.70] And it literally means out of line or out of sync. -[4512.70 --> 4520.70] It's used outside of the Bible to refer to a soldier who's marching out of step with their unit. -[4520.70 --> 4525.70] So you can imagine you have a unit, an army unit that's marching in perfect cadence. -[4525.70 --> 4531.70] And then with one of them out of step, it's glaringly obvious and disruptive to the whole. -[4531.70 --> 4533.70] It means disorderly. -[4533.70 --> 4534.70] It means out of line. -[4534.70 --> 4536.70] And it can mean insubordinate. -[4536.70 --> 4544.70] And then, insofar as we're called to work with our hands, we've seen this in the text, to not depend on others. -[4544.70 --> 4549.70] Insofar as it means that we're not idle or lazy in our faith and in our life together. -[4549.70 --> 4554.70] The word means to warn those who are being idle. -[4554.70 --> 4558.70] Now, there's an interesting contrast in these two sections. -[4558.70 --> 4565.70] Between the leader who works hard among you as an example of this kind of mature faith. -[4565.70 --> 4574.70] And the idleness as an example of an immature faith that needs to be warned against falling into. -[4574.70 --> 4581.70] Because too much immaturity creates instability and disorder in the body. -[4581.70 --> 4583.70] And that's not healthy. -[4583.70 --> 4586.70] So we need to warn each other. -[4586.70 --> 4588.70] Hey, I see this. -[4588.70 --> 4590.70] Hey, is this a problem? -[4590.70 --> 4592.70] Hey, do you need help? -[4592.70 --> 4595.70] Hey, do you need to confess something? -[4595.70 --> 4596.70] Do you confess something? -[4596.70 --> 4607.70] Now, in that context of warning and confession, note the next thing that we are to do together. -[4607.70 --> 4610.70] To encourage the disheartened. -[4610.70 --> 4616.70] Another way to translate that is to comfort the discouraged. -[4616.70 --> 4621.70] Part of what you do for each other is to comfort the discouraged. -[4621.70 --> 4625.70] To speak hope and help in dark times. -[4625.70 --> 4635.70] Last week on Disney Plus, a new rock opera just came out. -[4635.70 --> 4638.70] I know this is a pretty particular target. -[4638.70 --> 4640.70] Those people who like rock operas. -[4640.70 --> 4643.70] But there is a rock opera called Odessa. -[4643.70 --> 4648.70] And Sadie Smith, who is most famous for her role in Stranger Things. -[4648.70 --> 4650.70] And the scene running up the hill. -[4650.70 --> 4651.70] Anyway. -[4651.70 --> 4654.70] Sadie Smith's character is named Odessa. -[4654.70 --> 4660.70] She is the seventh in a line of what are called ramblers. -[4660.70 --> 4667.70] Now, ramblers in this world are traveling musicians who kind of function like a bard. -[4667.70 --> 4669.70] A musical storyteller for the culture. -[4669.70 --> 4670.70] And also a priest. -[4670.70 --> 4673.70] Who mediate healing and wholeness. -[4673.70 --> 4678.70] And she says that they describe the job of a rambler there. -[4678.70 --> 4683.70] As to comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable. -[4683.70 --> 4690.70] Which actually, when I was researching this, is a riff from a line in a book that was written in 1902. -[4690.70 --> 4692.70] By Finley Peter Dunn. -[4692.70 --> 4696.70] In which there is an Irish barman named Mr. Dooley. -[4696.70 --> 4698.70] Who says, the newspaper. -[4698.70 --> 4700.70] And by that he means journalism generally. -[4700.70 --> 4701.70] Because it's 1902. -[4701.70 --> 4703.70] The newspaper was all they had for media. -[4703.70 --> 4708.70] Journalism comforts the afflicted and afflicts the comfortable. -[4708.70 --> 4710.70] What I want you to see now. -[4710.70 --> 4714.70] Is that this idea is actually rooted in the Bible. -[4714.70 --> 4718.70] As church leaders and church communities together. -[4718.70 --> 4723.70] We need good preachers to afflict our misplaced comforts. -[4723.70 --> 4729.70] And we need brothers and sisters to comfort those of us who feel disheartened. -[4729.70 --> 4733.70] This is what a healthy church looks like. -[4733.70 --> 4737.70] Another mark of a healthy church is how we help the weak. -[4737.70 --> 4741.70] The word weak here can mean infirmity. -[4741.70 --> 4743.70] It can mean illness. -[4743.70 --> 4746.70] And so we're called to help those who are struggling with health. -[4746.70 --> 4750.70] And to walk alongside those who are in treatment for one thing or another. -[4750.70 --> 4753.70] To care for those who can't care for themselves. -[4753.70 --> 4757.70] But the word can also have spiritual connotations. -[4757.70 --> 4760.70] It can also have moral implications. -[4760.70 --> 4765.70] And so we're supposed to help each other and encourage one another to grow in our faith. -[4765.70 --> 4766.70] Right? -[4766.70 --> 4769.70] To grow in our relationship to God through Jesus Christ. -[4769.70 --> 4773.70] To grow in our relationship as brothers and sisters together. -[4773.70 --> 4777.70] We're supposed to help each other grow in our obedience to Jesus Christ. -[4777.70 --> 4780.70] And in living in mutual submission to him. -[4780.70 --> 4785.70] Now that means we not only have to be willing to give help. -[4785.70 --> 4790.70] It also means we have to be willing to accept help. -[4790.70 --> 4793.70] To accept correction. -[4793.70 --> 4796.70] And I don't know about you. -[4796.70 --> 4801.70] But it seems to me that for most of us, that second part is probably the harder one. -[4801.70 --> 4805.70] We can give all the help in the world. -[4805.70 --> 4808.70] But it becomes really hard when we have to accept it. -[4808.70 --> 4814.70] But by accepting help, by accepting encouragement, -[4814.70 --> 4819.70] you are part of making it possible for us together to be a healthy church. -[4819.70 --> 4821.70] And to live out that health. -[4821.70 --> 4824.70] And the truth of the matter is, -[4824.70 --> 4828.70] you may be in a season where you have to accept help. -[4828.70 --> 4830.70] And I may be in a season where I have to give help. -[4830.70 --> 4833.70] But you better believe those tables are going to turn. -[4833.70 --> 4836.70] And then they'll turn again, and again, and again. -[4836.70 --> 4838.70] Because that's what happens in life together. -[4838.70 --> 4847.70] Healthy churches, we read, are places of patience. -[4847.70 --> 4850.70] Now the root of this is probably self-explanatory. -[4850.70 --> 4857.70] The practice of it, especially in a community of a few hundred people, can be really hard. -[4857.70 --> 4858.70] Right? -[4858.70 --> 4862.70] Because there always seems to be at least one person, and if you have only one, you're doing good, -[4862.70 --> 4867.70] who just gets under your skin. -[4867.70 --> 4872.70] If you've ever parented young kids, you know the difficulty of this. -[4872.70 --> 4873.70] Right? -[4873.70 --> 4875.70] I'll use language that's common today. -[4875.70 --> 4878.70] You know all the techniques of gentle parenting. -[4878.70 --> 4883.70] But the fifth time your kid doesn't listen, gentleness goes out the window. -[4883.70 --> 4884.70] Am I right? -[4884.70 --> 4885.70] No? -[4885.70 --> 4887.70] Is that just me? -[4887.70 --> 4890.70] Please, don't leave me alone. -[4890.70 --> 4897.70] A healthy church is patient even with that one person. -[4897.70 --> 4902.70] Especially with that one person. -[4902.70 --> 4906.70] That's actually a mark of what makes it supernatural. -[4906.70 --> 4907.70] Right? -[4907.70 --> 4912.70] That apart from the grace of God, I could never be patient in that moment. -[4912.70 --> 4917.70] Because of the grace of God, somehow, by his spirit, we can. -[4917.70 --> 4918.70] Together. -[4918.70 --> 4924.70] Healthy churches make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong. -[4924.70 --> 4928.70] Now I take this to be an instruction towards justice. -[4928.70 --> 4934.70] But justice defined in the sort of inverted economy of the kingdom of God sense. -[4934.70 --> 4935.70] Right? -[4935.70 --> 4941.70] Justice infused with mercy, such that when someone does evil, we don't allow evil in response. -[4941.70 --> 4946.70] Instead, we seek to restore them to God and to each other, to the fellowship. -[4946.70 --> 4949.70] And this kind of restoration is hard. -[4949.70 --> 4957.70] And again, to be honest, in our culture of easy believism and consuming church as a product, -[4957.70 --> 4961.70] most people today don't have that kind of commitment to each other. -[4961.70 --> 4966.70] Instead of restoration, we just leave and find another church. -[4966.70 --> 4975.70] Instead of listening to spiritual leaders that God has given us, we walk away from the hard things that they're calling us to. -[4975.70 --> 4983.70] And to be sure, good leaders will weary themselves in trying to draw these people back to the fellowship. -[4983.70 --> 4986.70] But we can't make anybody do that work. -[4986.70 --> 4995.70] You've got to want to be a healthy church member in order to receive this well. -[4995.70 --> 5001.70] And lastly, a healthy church strives to do good for each other. -[5001.70 --> 5006.70] And, notice that and, for everyone else. -[5006.70 --> 5019.70] I love this because there's a sense here in which the good that we do here for this community spills forward and spills out to the rest of the neighborhood, to the rest of the community around us. -[5019.70 --> 5033.70] The mark of a healthy church is that its eyes are simultaneously looking inward to care for brothers and sisters here and outward to be a presence of God's love and God's goodness in the world. -[5033.70 --> 5037.70] And it's not first here and then out there. -[5037.70 --> 5044.70] It's not that we have to get stuff figured out here internally before we can go out externally. -[5044.70 --> 5052.70] It's not that we have to get our mission and ministry right here before we can see mission and ministry beyond these walls in the community. -[5052.70 --> 5055.70] It's both and, always both and. -[5055.70 --> 5057.70] That's the core of being a healthy church. -[5057.70 --> 5071.70] A healthy church is always essentially, and I mean core to its being when I use the word essential there, essentially looking beyond its walls and inviting people to experience the goodness of God through us. -[5071.70 --> 5081.70] Healthy churches acknowledge those who work hard among them, who care for you and admonish you. -[5081.70 --> 5085.70] Healthy churches warn those who are out of step. -[5085.70 --> 5087.70] They comfort the discouraged and afflict the comfortable. -[5087.70 --> 5091.70] Healthy churches help the weak and are patient with everyone. -[5091.70 --> 5096.70] Healthy churches live inverted kingdom justice, restoring people to relationship. -[5096.70 --> 5103.70] And healthy churches live for its own and for those beyond her walls. -[5103.70 --> 5106.70] Do you want to be a healthy church? -[5106.70 --> 5109.70] Thank you. -[5109.70 --> 5114.70] This is your work. -[5114.70 --> 5117.70] Only you can do this. -[5117.70 --> 5123.70] And I often say that the work of sermon application is yours. -[5123.70 --> 5125.70] That's not my job. -[5125.70 --> 5136.70] I open up the text and hopefully through this message, through these words, you hear the words of Jesus and you hear in them an invitation to something compelling and beautiful. -[5136.70 --> 5139.70] Something that moves your heart and soul in worship. -[5139.70 --> 5142.70] But you have to move. -[5142.70 --> 5145.70] You have to step. -[5145.70 --> 5148.70] Jesus is calling. -[5148.70 --> 5151.70] And so let's be a healthy church together. -[5151.70 --> 5152.70] Amen? -[5152.70 --> 5154.70] Let's pray. -[5154.70 --> 5161.70] God, you are so good. -[5161.70 --> 5165.70] You have shown us your goodness in your word. -[5165.70 --> 5168.70] You have given us a picture of what a healthy church looks like. -[5168.70 --> 5180.70] You have painted for us with clarity and precision what it means to be a good leader and what it means to be a healthy church in relationship to our leaders and into our ministry and mission together. -[5180.70 --> 5184.70] And so may we catch your vision for us today. -[5184.70 --> 5191.70] May this truth be planted deep in our hearts and may we live it out. -[5191.70 --> 5197.70] May this be the culture of Langley Emanuel from this moment forward. -[5197.70 --> 5200.70] As it has been, may it so be. -[5200.70 --> 5205.70] And where we have fallen short, may we grow in your grace. -[5205.70 --> 5215.70] Hear our prayer we pray Lord Jesus. -[5215.70 --> 5216.70] Amen. -[5216.70 --> 5217.70] Amen. -[5217.70 --> 5227.30] when we rise and join our voices in this song. -[5228.08 --> 5234.34] It's a song of what we can look as together -[5234.34 --> 5237.30] as we share Christ's love with each other. -[5247.70 --> 5258.54] We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord. -[5258.54 --> 5264.78] We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord. -[5265.08 --> 5270.92] And we pray that all unity may one day be restored -[5270.92 --> 5275.66] and they'll know we are Christians by our love, -[5275.66 --> 5282.40] by our love, yes and no, we are Christians by our love. -[5285.82 --> 5292.34] We will walk with each other, we will walk hand in hand. -[5292.60 --> 5298.44] We will walk with each other, we will walk hand in hand. -[5298.74 --> 5304.56] And together we'll spread the news that God is in our land -[5304.56 --> 5310.30] and they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love. -[5310.30 --> 5315.62] Yes, they'll know we are Christians by our love. -[5315.62 --> 5325.86] We will walk with each other, we will walk side by side. -[5325.86 --> 5332.18] We will walk with each other, we will walk side by side. -[5332.36 --> 5338.84] And we'll guard each man's dignity and save each man's pride. -[5338.84 --> 5344.58] And they'll know we are Christians by our love. -[5344.58 --> 5353.32] By our love, by our love, yes they'll know we are Christians by our love. -[5353.32 --> 5362.70] All praise to the Father, come all be done. -[5362.70 --> 5368.94] And all praise to Christ Jesus, His only Son. -[5369.06 --> 5375.20] And all praise to the Spirit who makes us one. -[5375.20 --> 5386.66] And they'll know we are Christians by our love. -[5386.66 --> 5402.92] Just a moment, we're going to receive God's blessing for the journey of life and faith, -[5403.02 --> 5407.20] of responding to God's call to mission among us. -[5407.20 --> 5415.72] Before we do that, just a quick reminder, if you are able to help pick up the Mexico mission team on Tuesday, -[5415.98 --> 5419.00] please talk to me after the service so I can coordinate that with you. -[5419.56 --> 5422.14] And additionally, if you'd like to meet with someone for prayer, -[5422.48 --> 5426.14] there'll be someone who comes up to the front here, they'll have a yellow name tag on. -[5426.60 --> 5429.62] They'd love to meet you, pray with you for whatever it is. -[5429.62 --> 5433.70] Whether it's joy and thanksgiving or whether you're crying out to God in need of circumstance, -[5433.98 --> 5435.30] they'll meet you and pray with you there. -[5435.30 --> 5438.72] Receive the blessing of God as we go today. -[5441.16 --> 5443.72] May God go before you to lead you. -[5444.50 --> 5446.78] God go behind you to protect you. -[5447.10 --> 5449.16] God go beneath you to support you. -[5449.44 --> 5451.88] God go beside you to befriend you. -[5452.44 --> 5454.18] Do not be afraid. -[5454.90 --> 5456.86] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5456.98 --> 5463.32] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5464.50 --> 5464.86] Amen. -[5465.30 --> 5466.64] Amen. -[5470.58 --> 5486.46] You're the Lion of Judah, the Lamb who was linked. -[5486.72 --> 5491.20] You ascend into heaven and burdened all the acet ancestral You know, see the blood shown in theіч price. -[5491.20 --> 5493.20] of the age when the earth -[5493.20 --> 5495.28] to return to gather -[5495.28 --> 5497.20] the nations before you -[5497.76 --> 5500.12] and the eyes of all men -[5500.12 --> 5502.08] will be next on the land -[5502.08 --> 5504.20] who was crucified -[5504.92 --> 5507.98] with mercy and mercy -[5507.98 --> 5509.80] and justice you'll reign -[5509.80 --> 5512.20] at the corner side -[5513.46 --> 5515.20] and the angels are right -[5515.72 --> 5520.20] who builds our life -[5520.20 --> 5523.12] who has saved all the world -[5523.12 --> 5526.36] who will cry -[5526.36 --> 5530.44] and if the earth will rely -[5530.44 --> 5534.44] you shall win -[5534.44 --> 5537.92] the King of all kings -[5537.92 --> 5540.44] and the Lord of all kings -[5540.44 --> 5549.36] raise a shield in our hand -[5549.36 --> 5551.28] and the sword at our side -[5551.28 --> 5553.28] there's a fire in our spirit -[5553.28 --> 5555.02] that cannot be denied -[5555.02 --> 5557.28] that the Father has told us -[5557.28 --> 5558.98] for we still have life -[5558.98 --> 5560.90] for the angels have gathered -[5560.90 --> 5562.12] before you -[5562.12 --> 5565.60] and the ears of all can be to hear -[5565.60 --> 5569.52] from the land who was crucified -[5569.52 --> 5571.26] who was crucified -[5571.26 --> 5574.18] who was raised up to rain -[5574.18 --> 5577.90] and upon the side -[5577.90 --> 5579.52] and the angels will cry -[5579.52 --> 5583.44] hail the land -[5583.44 --> 5585.44] who was raised up to rain -[5585.44 --> 5587.44] who was raised up to rain -[5587.44 --> 5589.44] and the angels will cry -[5589.44 --> 5591.44] and the angels will cry -[5591.44 --> 5593.44] and the angels will cry -[5593.44 --> 5598.44] of the land -[5602.56 --> 5604.36] and the angels will cry -[5604.36 --> 5605.36] and the armies of heaven -[5605.36 --> 5606.32] the land -[5606.78 --> 5607.48] who shallят -[5607.48 --> 5607.86] who was navigated -[5607.86 --> 5608.94] and the angels will cry -[5608.94 --> 5609.40] and the angels will cry -[5609.40 --> 5611.16] and the angels will cry -[5611.16 --> 5616.48] Who will swing for the world, who will fly? -[5618.70 --> 5625.16] And the next of the light you shall reign -[5625.72 --> 5630.02] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords -[5630.02 --> 5635.16] As the King of all kings and the Lord of all lords -[5641.16 --> 5645.56] We 180 g andETA -[5649.60 --> 5650.98] The best place to be -[5650.98 --> 5658.46] Kings! -[5658.46 --> 5662.14] Kings! -[5662.96 --> 5665.84] We'll see you next week -[5665.84 --> 5695.82] Thank you. -[5695.84 --> 5725.82] Thank you. -[5725.84 --> 5755.82] Thank you. -[5755.84 --> 5757.84] Thank you. -[5785.84 --> 5787.84] Thank you. -[5787.84 --> 5789.84] Thank you. -[5789.84 --> 5791.84] Thank you. -[5819.84 --> 5821.84] Thank you. -[5821.84 --> 5823.84] Thank you. -[5823.84 --> 5825.84] Thank you. -[5825.84 --> 5827.84] Thank you. -[5827.84 --> 5829.84] Thank you. -[5857.98 --> 5859.84] Thank you. -[5859.84 --> 5861.84] Thank you. -[5861.84 --> 5863.84] Thank you. -[5863.84 --> 5865.84] Thank you. -[5865.84 --> 5868.84] Than what could stand against -[5873.84 --> 5879.84] Than what could stand against -[5884.84 --> 5886.84] Our God is greater -[5886.84 --> 5888.84] Our God is stronger -[5888.84 --> 5893.84] God you are higher than any other -[5893.84 --> 5895.84] Our God is healer -[5895.84 --> 5897.84] Awesome and power -[5897.84 --> 5899.84] Our God -[5899.84 --> 5901.84] Our God -[5901.84 --> 5904.84] Our God is greater -[5904.84 --> 5906.84] Our God is stronger -[5906.84 --> 5911.84] God you are higher than any other -[5911.84 --> 5913.84] Our God is healer diff --git a/Sunday Worship, March 30, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, March 30, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 9cba71ac2f4175463cef40c22f2af1369fd2f158..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, March 30, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,100 +0,0 @@ -• Power and glory in the name of Jesus -• Breaking of chains and freedom through faith -• Salvation and healing in Christ's name -• Waiting on and trusting God's faithfulness -• Belief in God's presence and power in all aspects of life -• Worship and praise to God, acknowledging Him as Lord -• Introduction to worship service -• Welcome to Curtis Malista, seminary student and former pastor -• Announcements for video, Tree Tag game, and other church activities -• Explanation of Tree Tag rules and participation -• Encouragement to participate in Treat Tag during April -• Worship team meeting and lunch after church -• Youth camp registration deadline today -• Invitation to worship service -• Passing of the peace of Christ among congregation -• Reading of Psalm 13 verses 5-6 -• Worship songs referencing God's love, faithfulness, and strength -• Reflection on God's presence and power throughout eternity -• Offering of heart to God in surrender -• Declaration of commitment and promise -• Confession of sins -• Request for forgiveness and healing -• Prayer and thanksgiving -• Offering for church budget and C10 (Commissioned to Every Nation) -• Testimony from Jody Gonzalez regarding missionary support from the church -• Update on the team's work in the area, with 18 men currently living at Alfaro's men's home -• Story of a man who was saved and is now attending church and starting a new job -• Introduction of Interwoven, a women's group for knitting, sewing, and other crafts -• Gratitude expressed to Emmanuel family for their support and prayers -• Prayer in Spanish referencing the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus -• Invitation from Mr. Mike to four-year-olds to come up for Kids Corner -• Discussion about a parent driving skills and money -• Reference to the Book of Mark in Children's Biblesheve Time -• Announcement by Ken about church service at Sunridge Gardens on Saturdays -• Steve's announcements about town hall meeting for second pastor job description and nomination process for pastoral elders and deacons -• Klosterhof's sister has stage 3 cancer and is starting treatment -• Prayers for those who are sick, have mobility issues, or are recovering from illness -• Thanksgiving for the Mexico team's spring break mission and relationships developed during it -• Prayer for students heading back to school and parents returning to work -• Thanksgivings for successful surgeries (Emily Klingelting and Judy Versteg) -• Prayers for those struggling with mental health challenges, physical pain, and hospitalizations (Tara's husband, brother-in-law, Lena) -• Children getting sick repeatedly and its impact on family life -• Prayers for healing and strength, particularly for Tessa after surgery -• Cancer diagnoses and struggles within community members (Doug, Elise Wagner's dad; Amanda Hogawoning's sister; Joan, Clary's sister) -• Reflections on trusting God in difficult situations and understanding the "why" -• Invitation to turn to Colossians chapter 1 for a Bible reading -• The concept of "walking in a manner worthy of the Lord" is discussed -• The phrase is echoed in Colossians, and Paul is drawing on ancient wisdom literature -• Two paths are presented: walking with Christ or not -• Encouragement and advice from Paul to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord is given -• Walking with Christ is empowered by the hope laid up in heaven (Christ's conquest of sin) -• The same God who paid for sin desires to rescue and redeem us -• We are encouraged, empowered, and emboldened to walk with Christ -• Paul's thanksgiving section in Colossians highlights love, work of God, and Epaphras -• Encouraging Christian behavior through praise and prayer -• The church in Colossae struggled with worldviews and religions, such as Zeus, Apollo, Artemis, and the imperial cult -• Paul encourages Christians to live differently from the world by bearing fruit, growing, being empowered, and giving thanks -• These aspects of the Christian life are unique compared to other ways of living -• The Colossians were under pressure from cultural and political forces, similar to today's society with its access to bad content and worldly messaging -• Christians must resist these pressures at every turn, making it a monumental task -• The speaker notes the difficulty of reading and understanding Leviticus in the morning -• The Colossians and modern society are not so different in their struggles with Christian values -• The Western world is becoming increasingly post- or anti-Christian -• Children and adults are catechized by the media, internet, and iPhones -• It's challenging to resist the temptations of the world and grow in knowledge and affections for God -• God gives hope through Paul that we can walk with Him empowered by prayer, knowledge, and salvation -• Sanctification is a monergistic process where God does the work in us, and we cooperate with Him -• The importance of surrendering to God's work in one's life -• The role of prayer in Christian living and the empowerment of the Spirit -• The distinction between human effort and divine enablement in achieving spiritual goals -• The way God fills believers with knowledge and wisdom through His Word -• The balance between personal responsibility and dependence on God's work -• Encouragement vs. empowerment in faith -• The struggle to maintain courage and boldness in the face of trials and pressures -• Dealing with doubt, questioning God's actions, and suffering -• Paul's reminder to the Colossians of their transfer from darkness to the kingdom of Christ -• Connection between Old Testament stories (Exodus) and Christian salvation -• The story of Exodus has multiple layers of significance and meaning, but its core historical fact is that God rescued His people from Egypt. -• Moses receives the tablets of the law on Mount Sinai, but the Israelites soon succumb to worldly pressures and worship a golden calf. -• Despite their mistakes, the Israelites demonstrate faith in God by donating their riches to build the tabernacle. -• Paul calls Christians to be emboldened not by their own will or determination, but because God has already done that work through His rescue and transfer of them from darkness into light. -• Living by faith and trusting in God -• Not fearing the world but being bold in faith -• God's presence and hope in times of fear, doubt, and despair -• Paul's tone in his letter to the church in Colossae despite being in prison -• The salvation secured in Christ and its encouragement for Christians today -• The importance of living a life pleasing to God -• The role of Christ's work in our salvation and its ongoing effects on us -• The relationship between God's work and our response as believers -• The empowerment of the Holy Spirit for growth, knowledge, and love of Christ -• The call to live in a godly manner that reflects gratitude and faith in Jesus Christ -• The speaker's steadfast love and devotion to Jesus Christ -• Hope and trust in Jesus despite life's challenges and uncertainties -• Salvation through Christ and the forgiveness of sins -• Surrendering one's life and identity to Christ, giving up body and soul -• Dependence on God's power and presence in times of weakness and desperation -• Rejoicing in hope and peace as a result of trusting in Jesus -• Repetition of "Oh" and "Eh" sounds -• No coherent conversation or content mentioned -• Continuous expression of gratitude ("Thank you") from timestamp 5800.56 to 6170.56 \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, March 30, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, March 30, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ccd84464f64801185d969c546392bde30bf01d6c..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, March 30, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1634 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.84] Let all that you have made bring glory to your name. -[7.14 --> 10.38] When we fall, you are the Savior. -[10.88 --> 14.24] When we call, you are the answer. -[14.74 --> 17.58] There is power in your name. -[18.22 --> 21.48] There is power in your name. -[21.90 --> 28.92] In the name of Jesus, there is life and healing. -[28.92 --> 34.78] Chains are broken in your name. -[36.60 --> 44.72] Every knee will bow down and our hearts will cry out. -[45.18 --> 49.50] Songs of freedom in your name. -[50.94 --> 53.04] Oh, in your name. -[53.04 --> 60.64] Every chain broken away. -[60.64 --> 64.10] In your name. -[66.10 --> 69.48] When we fall, you are the Savior. -[69.86 --> 73.32] When we call, you are the answer. -[73.32 --> 76.86] When we fall, you are the Savior. -[77.28 --> 80.74] When we call, you are the answer. -[81.00 --> 83.96] There is power in your name. -[83.96 --> 90.96] There is power in your name. -[90.96 --> 95.10] There is power in your name. -[95.10 --> 98.64] There is power in your name. -[98.64 --> 102.32] There is power in your name. -[102.32 --> 106.32] There is power in your name. -[106.32 --> 111.00] There is power in your name. -[111.00 --> 117.66] In the name of Jesus, there is life and healing. -[117.66 --> 119.66] There is power in your name. -[119.66 --> 123.40] Chains are broken in your name. -[123.40 --> 125.26] Chains are broken in your name. -[125.26 --> 133.26] And every knee will bow down and our hearts will cry out. -[133.26 --> 138.66] Songs of freedom in your name. -[138.66 --> 140.66] Oh, in your name. -[140.66 --> 141.50] Oh, in your name. -[141.50 --> 144.66] There is power. -[146.66 --> 154.30] There is power in your name. -[168.66 --> 170.66] There is power in your name. -[170.66 --> 171.66] There is power in your name. -[171.66 --> 172.66] There is power in your name. -[172.66 --> 174.06] There is power in your name. -[174.06 --> 175.82] Mark, please come back. -[175.82 --> 179.64] Mark, please come back. -[179.64 --> 184.82] And put your shoes back on, please. -[184.82 --> 194.54] Precious cornstone, sure foundation. -[194.54 --> 202.34] You are faithful to Him. -[202.34 --> 210.04] We are waiting on You, Jesus. -[210.04 --> 217.04] We believe You're all to Him. -[217.04 --> 218.04] Max! -[218.04 --> 219.04] Max! -[219.04 --> 220.04] Max! -[220.04 --> 221.04] Max! -[221.04 --> 229.04] Precious cornerstone, sure foundation. -[229.04 --> 237.04] You are faithful to the end. -[237.04 --> 245.04] We are waiting on You, Jesus. -[245.04 --> 251.04] We believe You're all to us. -[251.04 --> 253.04] Amen. -[253.04 --> 255.04] Amen. -[255.04 --> 263.04] Let the glory of Your name be the passion of the church. -[263.04 --> 271.04] Let the righteousness of God be a holy flame that burns. -[271.04 --> 279.04] Let the saving love of Christ be the measure of our lives. -[279.04 --> 286.04] We believe You're all to us. -[286.04 --> 288.04] We believe You're all to us. -[288.04 --> 292.04] We believe You're all to us. -[292.04 --> 294.04] We believe You're all to us. -[294.04 --> 296.04] Amen. -[296.04 --> 297.04] Amen. -[297.04 --> 298.04] Amen. -[298.04 --> 299.04] Amen. -[299.04 --> 302.04] One more prayer, this isgalithomals of your love. -[302.04 --> 304.04] The Lord GORDON tudo bem escorted from heaven to pray this morning que yards -[304.04 --> 306.04] под объемing his own soul based on hope and mercy. -[306.04 --> 311.96] The Lord died out of faith, with with with with allwahs in other Fay� -[311.96 --> 313.46] and her love. -[313.46 --> 318.04] The Lord Take your prayer, this isgalithomals of theittomals of the Lord. -[318.04 --> 322.88] You're the promise, Jesus. -[322.88 --> 329.76] You are all to us. -[330.08 --> 331.78] Yeah, you're all. -[333.44 --> 341.20] So let the glory of your name be the passion of the church. -[341.20 --> 348.92] Let the righteousness of God be a holy flame that burns. -[349.18 --> 356.68] Let the saving love of Christ be the measure of our lives. -[357.14 --> 364.02] We believe you're all to us. -[364.02 --> 372.18] Let the glory of your name be the passion of the church. -[372.46 --> 379.86] Let the righteousness of God be a holy flame that burns. -[380.10 --> 387.68] Let the saving love of Christ be the measure of our lives. -[387.68 --> 395.68] We believe you're all to us. -[397.68 --> 398.68] Yeah. -[398.68 --> 406.90] You're all to us. -[406.96 --> 414.70] You're all to us. -[414.76 --> 422.22] You're all to us. -[422.22 --> 426.22] Yes, you are. -[426.22 --> 428.22] You're all to us. -[428.22 --> 430.22] You're all to us. -[430.22 --> 436.22] You're all to us. -[436.22 --> 442.22] You're all to us. -[442.22 --> 460.22] You're all to us. -[460.22 --> 462.22] You're all to us. -[462.22 --> 468.22] You're all to us. -[468.22 --> 493.22] When this past starts, world on top, we will see you faced by, and forever we will worship -[493.22 --> 518.22] Jesus, you are the Lord, Jesus, you are the Lord, you are the Lord, you are the Lord, -[518.22 --> 523.22] and forever we will worship you. -[523.22 --> 527.22] Everything to us. -[548.22 --> 553.22] We will worship you. -[553.22 --> 556.22] We will worship you. -[557.22 --> 559.22] We will worship you. -[559.22 --> 562.22] We will worship you. -[562.22 --> 565.22] Faithful. -[565.22 --> 569.22] Forever you are faithful. -[569.22 --> 576.22] Father to the Fatherland. -[576.22 --> 584.22] You uphold the one who feels forsaken. -[586.22 --> 588.22] Good morning. -[588.22 --> 590.22] Welcome to worship. -[590.22 --> 591.22] Worship. -[591.22 --> 593.22] A special welcome if you are visiting with us today. -[593.22 --> 594.22] My name is Chris. -[594.22 --> 598.22] It is our privilege this morning in our worship to welcome Curtis Malista. -[598.22 --> 600.22] He is going to preach for us later. -[600.22 --> 604.22] Curtis is a seminary student at Calvin Theological Seminary. -[604.22 --> 610.22] He used to be one of the pastors at a church here in town and then since moved away and focused on his studies. -[610.22 --> 614.22] So we are grateful for having Curtis later on in our service show up. -[614.22 --> 620.22] We have a couple of announcements before we begin our service and the first announcement is going to be a video. -[620.22 --> 622.22] And so we are going to jump to that right now. -[644.22 --> 664.22] Let's go to the beach. -[664.22 --> 666.22] Yeah, okay. -[666.22 --> 668.22] Where's Josh? -[668.22 --> 669.22] He's in Mexico. -[669.22 --> 670.22] He'll meet us at the beach. -[670.22 --> 671.22] Good for him. -[671.22 --> 674.22] Getting away before the rush of tree tag. -[674.22 --> 675.22] Tree tag! -[675.22 --> 678.22] Kevin, you're looking kind of burnt. -[678.22 --> 681.22] Like, you're really red. -[681.22 --> 685.22] Chris, you're not looking burnt but you are looking kind of jaundice. -[685.22 --> 687.22] I think we should switch spots. -[687.22 --> 690.22] I thought you said Josh was supposed to be here. -[691.22 --> 695.22] Swimming, swimming in the ocean blue. -[695.22 --> 697.22] It's that time of year again. -[697.22 --> 699.22] Tree tag is back. -[699.22 --> 704.22] During the month of April, we encourage you to drop off treats of all sorts. -[704.22 --> 705.22] Like all sorts? -[705.22 --> 706.22] Yes. -[706.22 --> 709.22] Treats of all kinds to our church community. -[709.22 --> 712.22] Whether candies, cards, compliments, or corn chips. -[712.22 --> 719.22] Drop off a treat tag in someone's church mailbox, at their door, or in some other creative and fun way. -[719.22 --> 726.22] And remember, if you get tagged, you then have to pass it off to one or six others. -[728.22 --> 730.22] And so on, and so on. -[730.22 --> 732.22] It's the game that keeps on giving. -[732.22 --> 737.22] And try to tag people you don't know yet. -[737.22 --> 739.22] And remember to include everybody. -[739.22 --> 751.22] Until then, let's just enjoy the smell of the ocean and the beautiful, restful, absolutely not dangerous, relaxing, peaceful, calming vistas. -[751.22 --> 753.22] I'm gonna have an app. -[770.22 --> 771.22] Wanna go fishing? -[771.22 --> 777.94] Oh, you cut it early. -[778.08 --> 779.26] The best part was coming. -[779.76 --> 781.00] You're going to have to watch it online. -[784.42 --> 786.40] There is a note at the end that says, -[786.48 --> 788.66] no Joshes were harmed in the making of this short film. -[788.86 --> 790.98] So you have to go figure out how he gets rescued -[790.98 --> 793.14] as you check that video out online. -[793.92 --> 795.66] So the point of that, it's treat tag. -[795.66 --> 797.76] If you have no idea what that means, -[797.76 --> 801.54] talk to Pastor Kevin or to myself after the service. -[801.82 --> 803.28] If you know what that means, -[803.32 --> 804.28] this is something we've been doing -[804.28 --> 806.42] for the last four or five years. -[806.88 --> 809.14] Now, it's just an opportunity to bless one another -[809.14 --> 812.20] with some treats of some sort and in some way. -[812.32 --> 814.86] We let you creatively figure that out together. -[815.56 --> 817.76] So April is the month we do that every year. -[817.90 --> 820.36] And so we encourage you to start participating in that -[820.36 --> 822.32] when April starts right away. -[822.72 --> 824.14] A couple other announcements. -[824.50 --> 826.38] First of all, worship teams. -[826.38 --> 830.40] You're having a worship session after church today -[830.40 --> 831.54] that includes lunch. -[832.10 --> 833.34] And so if you're on a worship team, -[833.44 --> 836.00] please stick around after our worship this morning. -[836.16 --> 837.94] You'll have some time together, some fellowship, -[838.28 --> 842.74] and work on some emerging worship songs in our midst. -[843.52 --> 846.52] And then also want to note -[846.52 --> 849.14] that youth camp registration ends today. -[849.72 --> 851.74] And so if you haven't registered your youth -[851.74 --> 853.58] or if you are a youth who hasn't yet registered -[853.58 --> 855.86] for youth camp, please do that today. -[855.86 --> 857.88] If you have any questions, again, Pastor Kevin -[857.88 --> 859.20] will deal with those. -[859.42 --> 861.38] And then tonight for the youth, -[861.88 --> 864.54] 2020 is happening here at church. -[864.80 --> 867.44] And that begins at 6.30. -[867.50 --> 867.94] Thank you. -[868.36 --> 871.52] And tonight's topic for 2020 is hell. -[873.14 --> 874.52] So it should be pretty interesting. -[875.40 --> 877.54] Come on out and have, -[877.70 --> 879.66] I'm not going to say enjoy a discussion on hell, -[879.66 --> 882.84] but have a discussion on the reality of hell -[882.84 --> 886.10] and how we can think about that biblically. -[887.12 --> 888.66] I think that's it for announcements. -[888.90 --> 889.78] And so I'm going to invite you, -[889.88 --> 891.18] as you're able, to stand. -[891.68 --> 894.72] We can be welcomed into the presence of our God together. -[897.10 --> 899.50] Following the receiving of God's greeting, -[899.60 --> 901.42] I'm going to invite you to turn to those around you -[901.42 --> 904.04] and welcome them in our shared worship this morning -[904.04 --> 905.68] by passing the peace of Christ. -[905.68 --> 907.08] So you can say the Lord be with you -[907.08 --> 909.30] or the peace of Christ be with you, -[909.30 --> 910.56] or you can just say good morning -[910.56 --> 912.34] and shake a hand or give a fist bump. -[912.60 --> 914.50] Receive the blessing of our God. -[916.34 --> 919.50] Grace, mercy, and peace to you -[919.50 --> 920.60] from God our Father, -[920.92 --> 922.14] from the Lord Jesus Christ, -[922.24 --> 923.70] Son and our Savior, -[924.10 --> 925.24] through the presence and power -[925.24 --> 926.54] of the Holy Spirit. -[927.54 --> 927.86] Amen. -[935.68 --> 936.68] Amen. -[965.68 --> 972.56] Good morning. -[973.68 --> 977.30] Our call to worship this morning is Psalm 13, -[977.46 --> 979.86] Psalm 13, verses 5 and 6. -[980.60 --> 982.74] But I trust in your unfailing love. -[983.06 --> 985.32] My heart rejoices in your salvation. -[986.02 --> 987.74] I will sing the Lord's praises, -[987.98 --> 989.48] for he has been good to me. -[990.16 --> 991.54] Let's worship him together. -[991.54 --> 991.62] Amen. -[995.68 --> 1024.92] It begs to the Lord, our God and King, -[1024.92 --> 1027.92] His love and jones forever. -[1029.12 --> 1032.96] For he is good, he is a final face, -[1033.26 --> 1035.92] His love and jones forever. -[1037.02 --> 1042.92] Sing praise, sing praise. -[1045.06 --> 1048.92] With a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, -[1048.92 --> 1051.92] His love and jones forever. -[1051.92 --> 1055.92] For the life that's been reborn, -[1055.92 --> 1059.92] His love and jones forever. -[1059.92 --> 1066.92] Sing praise, sing praise. -[1066.92 --> 1073.92] Sing praise, sing praise. -[1073.92 --> 1074.92] For the life that's been made. -[1074.92 --> 1075.92] For the life that's been made. -[1075.92 --> 1079.92] Forever God is faithful. -[1079.92 --> 1083.92] Forever God is strong. -[1083.92 --> 1087.92] Forever God is with us. -[1087.92 --> 1088.92] Forever. -[1088.92 --> 1089.92] Forever. -[1089.92 --> 1091.92] Forever. -[1091.92 --> 1092.92] Forever. -[1092.92 --> 1093.92] Forever. -[1093.92 --> 1094.92] Forever. -[1094.92 --> 1095.92] Forever. -[1095.92 --> 1096.92] Forever. -[1096.92 --> 1097.92] Forever. -[1097.92 --> 1099.92] Rising to the setting sun, -[1099.92 --> 1101.92] His love endures forever. -[1101.92 --> 1102.92] Forever. -[1102.92 --> 1103.92] Forever. -[1103.92 --> 1104.92] Forever. -[1104.92 --> 1105.92] Forever. -[1105.92 --> 1106.92] Forever. -[1106.92 --> 1107.92] God. -[1107.92 --> 1108.92] God. -[1108.92 --> 1109.92] Forever. -[1109.92 --> 1110.92] God. -[1110.92 --> 1111.92] Furn't. -[1111.92 --> 1116.92] Furn affordance forever. -[1116.92 --> 1117.92] Sing. -[1117.92 --> 1118.92] And let us sing. -[1118.92 --> 1119.92] Bye. -[1119.92 --> 1120.92] And let us sing. -[1120.92 --> 1127.92] Sing praise, sing praise. -[1129.06 --> 1141.92] Forever God is faithful, forever God is strong, forever God is with us, forever. -[1141.92 --> 1158.00] Forever you are faithful, forever you are strong, forever you are with us, forever. -[1160.14 --> 1162.02] Forever. -[1171.92 --> 1173.92] Forever. -[1173.92 --> 1175.92] Forever. -[1175.92 --> 1177.92] Forever. -[1177.92 --> 1179.92] Forever. -[1179.92 --> 1181.92] Forever. -[1181.92 --> 1183.92] Forever. -[1183.92 --> 1185.92] Forever. -[1185.92 --> 1187.92] Forever. -[1187.92 --> 1189.92] Forever. -[1189.92 --> 1191.92] Forever. -[1191.92 --> 1193.92] Forever. -[1193.92 --> 1195.92] Forever. -[1195.92 --> 1197.92] Forever. -[1197.92 --> 1199.92] Forever. -[1199.92 --> 1205.92] You stood before creation, eternity in your heart. -[1205.92 --> 1221.92] You stood before creation, my soul now to stand. -[1221.92 --> 1233.92] I stood before my failure, and carried the cross for my shame. -[1233.92 --> 1239.92] I stood before your shoulder, and my soul now to stand. -[1239.92 --> 1243.92] I stood before your shoulder, and my soul now to stand. -[1243.92 --> 1249.92] So what can I say? -[1249.92 --> 1255.92] And what can I do? -[1255.92 --> 1265.92] But offer this heart, oh God, completely to you. -[1265.92 --> 1266.92] You stood before your shoulder, and my soul now to stand. -[1266.92 --> 1267.92] So what can I say? -[1267.92 --> 1268.92] I'm not going to stand before your shoulder, and my soul now to stand. -[1268.92 --> 1269.92] So what can I say? -[1269.92 --> 1270.92] And what can I do? -[1270.92 --> 1271.92] And what can I do? -[1271.92 --> 1273.92] I'm not going to stand before your shoulder, and my soul now to stand. -[1273.92 --> 1274.92] So what can I say? -[1274.92 --> 1275.92] And what can I do? -[1275.92 --> 1276.92] But I'll move in. -[1276.92 --> 1277.92] I'll move in. -[1277.92 --> 1278.92] And I'll move in. -[1278.92 --> 1284.80] I'd like to declare your promise -[1284.80 --> 1288.28] My soul now to stand -[1288.28 --> 1293.68] So what can I say? -[1296.44 --> 1299.56] And what can I do? -[1302.22 --> 1307.30] But I'll move this far, oh God -[1307.30 --> 1311.26] Don't we need you? -[1313.96 --> 1316.86] So what can I say? -[1319.58 --> 1322.62] And what can I do? -[1325.36 --> 1330.26] But I'll move this far, oh God -[1330.26 --> 1334.46] Don't we need you? -[1337.30 --> 1350.48] So I'll stand with arms high and heart out there -[1350.48 --> 1356.94] In awe of the one who gave it all -[1356.94 --> 1372.12] I'll stand with arms high and heart out there -[1372.12 --> 1379.12] In awe of the one who gave it all -[1379.12 --> 1385.30] I'll stand with arms high and heart out there -[1385.30 --> 1390.30] In awe of the one who gave it all -[1390.30 --> 1394.30] I'll stand with arms high and heart out there -[1394.30 --> 1400.30] In awe of the one who gave it all -[1400.30 --> 1402.30] Who gave it all -[1402.30 --> 1405.30] I'll stand with my soul -[1405.30 --> 1407.30] Lord, to you surrender -[1407.30 --> 1409.30] All I am -[1409.30 --> 1413.30] It's yours all -[1413.30 --> 1415.30] I am -[1415.30 --> 1417.30] It's yours all -[1417.30 --> 1424.30] You may be seated -[1424.30 --> 1429.86] Please join me in prayer -[1429.86 --> 1434.34] Gracious and merciful God -[1434.34 --> 1436.86] We humbly confess our sins -[1436.86 --> 1441.14] Sins we have committed when we have strayed from your path -[1441.14 --> 1441.98] In our thoughts -[1441.98 --> 1443.16] In our words -[1443.16 --> 1444.46] And in our actions -[1444.46 --> 1447.76] In the next moment of silent confession -[1447.76 --> 1450.36] We acknowledge our failures and shortcomings -[1450.36 --> 1453.42] We seek your forgiveness and healing -[1453.42 --> 1462.22] 次に -[1462.22 --> 1466.70] 温め poco -[1466.70 --> 1470.68] から -[1470.68 --> 1472.52] 福祉 -[1472.84 --> 1474.76] jakby -[1475.38 --> 1478.44] 作 loud -[1478.44 --> 1508.42] Thank you. -[1508.44 --> 1538.42] Thank you. -[1538.44 --> 1540.44] Thank you. -[1568.44 --> 1570.44] Thank you. -[1598.44 --> 1600.44] Thank you. -[1628.44 --> 1630.44] Thank you. -[1658.44 --> 1660.44] Thank you. -[1688.44 --> 1690.44] Thank you. -[1718.44 --> 1720.44] Thank you. -[1748.44 --> 1750.44] Thank you. -[1750.44 --> 1752.44] Thank you. -[1752.44 --> 1754.44] Thank you. -[1754.44 --> 1756.44] Thank you. -[1756.44 --> 1758.44] Thank you. -[1758.44 --> 1760.44] Thank you. -[1760.44 --> 1762.44] Thank you. -[1762.44 --> 1764.44] Thank you. -[1764.44 --> 1772.44] Thank you. -[1772.44 --> 1776.44] Thank you. -[1776.44 --> 1781.26] The joy of the Lord will be my strength. -[1781.26 --> 1786.18] I will not falter, I will not faint. -[1786.62 --> 1790.78] He is my shepherd, I am not afraid. -[1791.30 --> 1795.06] The joy of the Lord is my strength. -[1796.20 --> 1804.82] The joy of the Lord, the joy of the Lord, the joy of the Lord is my strength. -[1804.82 --> 1814.90] The joy of the Lord, the joy of the Lord, the joy of the Lord is my strength. -[1817.46 --> 1823.00] The joy of the Lord will be my strength. -[1823.56 --> 1828.06] He will uphold me all of my days. -[1828.42 --> 1832.74] I am surrounded by mercy and grace. -[1832.74 --> 1836.74] The joy of the Lord is my strength. -[1836.74 --> 1846.74] The joy of the Lord, the joy of the Lord is my strength. -[1846.74 --> 1856.16] The joy of the Lord, the joy of the Lord, the joy of the Lord is my strength. -[1857.12 --> 1862.12] The joy of the Lord will be my strength. -[1862.58 --> 1866.92] I will not waver, walking by faith. -[1867.44 --> 1871.56] He will be strong to deliver me, say. -[1871.56 --> 1885.56] The joy of the Lord, the joy of the Lord is my strength. -[1885.56 --> 1895.56] The joy of the Lord, the joy of the Lord, the joy of the Lord is my strength. -[1895.56 --> 1914.50] The joy of the Lord is my strength. -[1914.50 --> 1922.70] of the deacons here at Emanuel. Our offerings this morning are first for our budget, which gives to -[1922.70 --> 1928.60] the ministries and such of this church. If you would like to donate to that, you can use the -[1928.60 --> 1935.08] envelopes and label it. The envelopes are in your front, should be in the chairs in front of you. -[1935.88 --> 1941.26] Our second offering this morning is for C10, which is Commissioned to Every Nation. -[1941.26 --> 1948.38] C10 is a servant organization which helps missionaries to fulfill the vision that God -[1948.38 --> 1954.74] has given them. Through the administrative support, they provide accountability and they help the -[1954.74 --> 1960.46] missionaries get to the field. Through their pastoral care, they help the missionaries remain -[1960.46 --> 1968.68] effective and healthy while they are there. Our church has supported Jody and Uriel Gonzalez -[1968.68 --> 1979.40] through C10 for a number of years. That's what our offering is for this morning. I have a -[1979.40 --> 1987.30] letter, note, whatever, directly from Jody. I'm just going to read that to you this morning. -[1988.16 --> 1990.00] She says, or they do, -[1990.00 --> 1997.36] Good morning, Emanuel family. As we go through some team withdrawal after having a fabulous time -[1997.36 --> 2004.42] with them here, we first want to say a great big thank you. Thank you for faithfully sending a group -[2004.42 --> 2010.58] to our area of the world. Having church family come and work here for a time truly keeps us motivated. -[2010.58 --> 2019.66] Even though the team has returned home, the work here continues. 18 men are currently living at Alfaro -[2019.66 --> 2027.02] men's home. A quick story. There was a gentleman who was found on the side of the road near death. He was -[2027.02 --> 2033.36] brought to a local rehab and stayed there for a few months. They contacted Uriel to see if we had a bed -[2033.36 --> 2041.06] for him. He came with nothing. He was clean and sober, but he was empty and lost. He knew the Lord, -[2041.30 --> 2049.42] but had walked away. He's now going to church and he starts a new job on Monday. God is working in him. -[2049.96 --> 2057.04] This is just one of the many lives that are changing here at Alfaro. I, Jody, have started a women's group -[2057.04 --> 2063.38] called Interwoven. Two Saturdays a month, a group of ladies get together to knit, crochet, latch hook, -[2063.54 --> 2068.98] sew, whatever. I have a sewing machine, but don't know how to use it. A lady asked if she could use -[2068.98 --> 2075.30] it during our interwoven time to make curtains for her home. Yes. Another lady has offered to teach us -[2075.30 --> 2082.20] how to sew. We have 17 regular ladies, Spanish and English speaking, who come during our drop-in times. -[2082.20 --> 2088.28] This is a new type of outreach ministry that is opening up doors of opportunity in our area. -[2089.16 --> 2094.94] Emmanuel family, thank you for your continued support. Your faithfulness in praying for us -[2094.94 --> 2101.98] and giving of your finances makes this possible. God is using you to help us help others. -[2102.54 --> 2107.12] Jody, Uriel, Jonathan, and Antonio. Let's give as God has given to us. -[2112.20 --> 2134.08] Suosda, the FROM THE BRUS mismo called -[2134.08 --> 2143.46] Man of Soros have gone by his own betrayal. -[2143.46 --> 2155.70] The sin of Man of Atta gone has killed Jesus' name. -[2155.70 --> 2168.70] Silent as he stood accused, beaten, rocked, and stoned. -[2168.70 --> 2180.70] Fowing to the Father's will, he took the crown of thorns. -[2180.70 --> 2192.84] O that rugged cross, my salvation, with your love poured out over me. -[2192.84 --> 2203.74] Now my soul cries out, hallelujah, praise and honor of Jesus. -[2203.74 --> 2216.74] Set a heaven God's own Son to purchase and redeem. -[2216.74 --> 2227.74] And red and solidary ones who nailed him to the tree. -[2227.74 --> 2238.74] Hold that rugged cross, my salvation, with your love poured out over me. -[2238.74 --> 2248.74] Now my soul cries out, hallelujah, praise and honor of Jesus. -[2248.74 --> 2259.08] Now my debt is paid, it is paid in full. -[2259.08 --> 2264.66] By the precious blood that my Jesus built. -[2265.00 --> 2270.16] Now the curse of sin has no hold on me. -[2270.44 --> 2275.34] When the Son stands free, always free indeed. -[2275.34 --> 2302.80] Oh that rugged cross, my salvation. -[2302.80 --> 2308.80] When the Son stands free, always free indeed. -[2308.80 --> 2318.80] Now my soul cries out, hallelujah, praise and honor unto thee. -[2318.80 --> 2327.80] See the stone is rolled away. -[2327.80 --> 2332.80] Behold the empty tomb. -[2332.80 --> 2334.80] Hallelujah, hallelujah, praise and honor unto thee. -[2334.80 --> 2339.80] Hallelujah, God be praised, he's risen from the grave. -[2339.80 --> 2343.80] He's risen from the grave. -[2343.80 --> 2353.80] Oh my rugged cross, my salvation, with your love poured out over me. -[2353.80 --> 2365.80] And my soul cries out, hallelujah, praise and honor unto thee. -[2365.80 --> 2371.80] Praise and honor unto thee. -[2371.80 --> 2381.80] Good morning. -[2381.80 --> 2382.80] Good morning. -[2382.80 --> 2387.80] My name is Mr. Mike and I'd like to invite all the four-year-olds up to grade four to come up for Kids Corner -[2387.80 --> 2390.80] before we head off to Children's Worship Time. -[2390.80 --> 2392.80] Oh boy, you can't get any closer. -[2392.80 --> 2393.80] Ooh. -[2394.80 --> 2395.80] Come on up. -[2398.80 --> 2400.80] Okay, oh, oh. -[2400.80 --> 2403.80] Okay guys, it's pretty nice out. -[2403.80 --> 2406.80] I'm feeling pretty good about myself today. -[2406.80 --> 2408.80] How are you guys feeling? -[2408.80 --> 2409.80] Good? -[2409.80 --> 2410.80] Oh, oh boy. -[2410.80 --> 2412.80] Okay, this might go in my direction. -[2412.80 --> 2416.80] I'm feeling so good about myself, I kind of think I'm better than you guys. -[2416.80 --> 2417.80] Huh? -[2417.80 --> 2419.80] What do you guys think? -[2419.80 --> 2421.80] Oh, not so sure, eh? -[2421.80 --> 2425.80] Okay, well, let's have a little competition then, shall we? -[2425.80 --> 2430.80] Have their brave soul who thinks they want to come up against me for who's better? -[2430.80 --> 2431.80] Huh? -[2431.80 --> 2433.80] How about we have these two girls come on up. -[2433.80 --> 2434.80] Okay. -[2434.80 --> 2438.80] All right, first up, I think I'm better because I'm taller. -[2438.80 --> 2440.80] Let's see, back to back. -[2440.80 --> 2441.80] Who's taller? -[2441.80 --> 2442.80] Who's taller? -[2442.80 --> 2443.80] Me? -[2443.80 --> 2446.80] Oh, okay, well, thank you. -[2446.80 --> 2448.80] Does that make me better? -[2448.80 --> 2449.80] Oh. -[2449.80 --> 2451.80] Okay, all right, I'll try again. -[2451.80 --> 2452.80] Let's see. -[2452.80 --> 2453.80] Oh, what's this? -[2453.80 --> 2454.80] Oh. -[2454.80 --> 2457.80] I know how to drive. -[2457.80 --> 2460.80] Do you know how to drive? -[2460.80 --> 2461.80] No. -[2461.80 --> 2462.80] Oh. -[2462.80 --> 2464.80] Maybe that makes me better. -[2464.80 --> 2465.80] No. -[2465.80 --> 2466.80] What? -[2466.80 --> 2469.80] Oh, every parent knows how to drive, she says. -[2469.80 --> 2470.80] Sure, sure. -[2470.80 --> 2473.80] Okay, all right, I'll try again. -[2473.80 --> 2476.80] How much money you got? -[2476.80 --> 2481.80] We're not going to sense my sense of balance, that's for sure. -[2481.80 --> 2482.80] 60 million. -[2482.80 --> 2483.80] You, what? -[2483.80 --> 2484.80] Oh, look at this. -[2484.80 --> 2485.80] Look at this. -[2485.80 --> 2486.80] Thousand. -[2486.80 --> 2492.80] How do you, how do you guys, oh, okay, well, paper. -[2492.80 --> 2493.80] Okay, all right, all right. -[2493.80 --> 2495.80] Maybe that didn't work. -[2495.80 --> 2496.80] Maybe that didn't work. -[2496.80 --> 2499.80] Oh, someone's, you got American money? -[2499.80 --> 2501.80] Oh, my goodness. -[2501.80 --> 2502.80] All right, all right. -[2502.80 --> 2504.80] Take that one off the list. -[2504.80 --> 2511.80] How about, all right, you guys, I think you got a nice dress on, do you? -[2511.80 --> 2513.80] Let's see. -[2513.80 --> 2524.80] This makes me better, eh? -[2524.80 --> 2529.80] No, oh, oh, a little heckling from the audience. -[2529.80 --> 2531.80] All right, it always works in my favor. -[2531.80 --> 2534.80] All right, well, I got the last piece de resistance. -[2534.80 --> 2537.80] This is gonna top it off. -[2537.80 --> 2538.80] All right. -[2538.80 --> 2540.80] We all saw the game last night, huh? -[2540.80 --> 2541.80] Huh? -[2541.80 --> 2543.80] I am wearing the blood, though. -[2543.80 --> 2545.80] But are you a fan of these guys, huh? -[2545.80 --> 2547.80] Does that make you better, make me better? -[2547.80 --> 2548.80] No. -[2548.80 --> 2549.80] What? -[2549.80 --> 2550.80] No? -[2550.80 --> 2552.80] Oh, okay, all right. -[2552.80 --> 2554.80] All right, I'm struggling. -[2554.80 --> 2557.80] Well, we've been talking about the Book of Mark. -[2557.80 --> 2563.80] Thank you, ladies, for your brave efforts coming up against me. -[2563.80 --> 2566.80] We've been talking about the Book of Mark in Children's Bershive Time, right? -[2566.80 --> 2573.80] And all about the different things that make us who we are and our identity in Jesus. -[2573.80 --> 2580.80] And a big one is none of us is better than the other person because we're all children of God. -[2580.80 --> 2582.80] So we're gonna talk more about that today, okay? -[2582.80 --> 2585.80] So let's do that in Children's Bershive Time. -[2585.80 --> 2591.80] But before then, let's stand and we'll bless the congregation that's gonna stay here and learn from Pastor Chris. -[2591.80 --> 2594.80] And we are gonna learn a little bit more. -[2594.80 --> 2595.80] Oh, Curtis. -[2595.80 --> 2596.80] That's right. -[2596.80 --> 2598.80] Pastor Curtis is here today. -[2598.80 --> 2600.80] All right, let's do this together. -[2600.80 --> 2601.80] Arms up. -[2601.80 --> 2621.80] Good morning. -[2621.80 --> 2622.80] My name is Ken. -[2622.80 --> 2626.80] I just have one quick announcement before Steve has some announcements from Council. -[2626.80 --> 2635.80] Every first Saturday of the month, our church gathers with folks up the hill at the retirement community, Sunridge Gardens. -[2635.80 --> 2637.80] And we have a church service at 2 p.m. -[2637.80 --> 2638.80] So that's coming up this Saturday. -[2638.80 --> 2643.80] And for anyone who's been wondering what that's about, it's kind of a small, intimate setting. -[2643.80 --> 2646.80] We're sitting around on chairs kind of in a circle sort of set up around a piano. -[2646.80 --> 2651.80] We sing some of the old classic hymns and songs and then have a small message. -[2651.80 --> 2656.80] And we sit together and share story and life with folks up there. -[2656.80 --> 2659.80] And there's a number of our church members who are residents at Sunridge as well. -[2659.80 --> 2664.80] So if you've ever been thinking about coming out or if you're wondering a bit more about it, please reach out to me. -[2664.80 --> 2667.80] And I can give you a little more info. -[2667.80 --> 2669.80] And Saturday at 2 p.m. we'll be meeting there. -[2669.80 --> 2673.80] So we'd love to see more of you there. Thanks. -[2673.80 --> 2674.80] Thanks. -[2674.80 --> 2675.80] I'm up here. -[2675.80 --> 2679.80] Steve is an elder to announce a few reminders. -[2679.80 --> 2687.80] Next week, Tuesday, I think it is, April 8th, we have a town hall to discuss the job description for a second pastor. -[2687.80 --> 2694.80] And the other announcements we've got, we're in the nomination process for pastoral elders and deacons. -[2694.80 --> 2698.80] So there's details in the bulletin about that. And yeah, so check that out. -[2698.80 --> 2701.80] And I'll hand it off to Sarah here. -[2701.80 --> 2706.80] Good morning. -[2706.80 --> 2713.80] Before we dive into, people usually introduce themselves up here. -[2713.80 --> 2720.80] My name is Sarah. I am one of your sisters in Christ here at Emanuel. -[2720.80 --> 2728.80] And just a note of change to one of the prayer request items. -[2728.80 --> 2733.80] And Tessa, Jerry Jansen's daughter and Enochalas' sister. -[2733.80 --> 2739.80] She had some surgery to remove a tumor. -[2739.80 --> 2745.80] She's regaining some strength but still has some more treatment ahead. -[2745.80 --> 2748.80] So just an adjustment to what was written there. -[2748.80 --> 2756.80] And then Joan, Clary Klosterhof's sister, has stage 3 cancer and is starting treatment. -[2756.80 --> 2761.80] So we'll keep them in our prayers along with the list we have here. -[2761.80 --> 2764.80] Join me in prayer. -[2768.80 --> 2774.80] Heavenly Father, we come to you in prayer, lifting up our community. -[2774.80 --> 2782.80] We thank you for each person sitting here and those who cannot be here with us. -[2782.80 --> 2789.80] Lord, we think especially of those who have sickness who can't be with us. -[2789.80 --> 2793.80] Those who have mobility issues who can't be with us. -[2793.80 --> 2797.80] Those who aren't feeling well who are at home. -[2797.80 --> 2802.80] And we pray that they would feel your arm around them. -[2802.80 --> 2806.80] And the extension of community in whatever space they're in. -[2809.80 --> 2811.80] Lord, we thank you that you hear our prayers. -[2813.80 --> 2816.80] And we first want to bring our thanksgiving before you. -[2816.80 --> 2823.80] Our thanksgiving for the Mexico team who went down during spring break. -[2823.80 --> 2831.80] Lord, the bountiful of experiences, of joys, of connection. -[2831.80 --> 2836.80] Lord, there was a youth conference that our team hosted. -[2836.80 --> 2839.80] A children's festival. -[2839.80 --> 2844.80] And they engaged with the church that were connected there. -[2844.80 --> 2847.80] And the Gonzales family, Lord, and their ministry. -[2847.80 --> 2857.80] Lord, we thank you for those connections and the family that has been developed over the years. -[2857.80 --> 2861.80] Over 30 years, Lord, we thank you for that. -[2861.80 --> 2864.80] Your goodness in those relationships. -[2864.80 --> 2870.80] And for the experiences for the team and for the people who live there, Lord. -[2871.80 --> 2874.80] Also thinking about spring break. -[2874.80 --> 2880.80] We thank you for the rest that some have been able to have, Lord. -[2880.80 --> 2883.80] And the travel and family time. -[2883.80 --> 2885.80] Lord, we thank you for that. -[2885.80 --> 2890.80] And we pray for everyone heading back into school. -[2890.80 --> 2896.80] We pray for parents as maybe they get back into their work routine. -[2896.80 --> 2899.80] For kids as they get back into their school routine. -[2899.80 --> 2901.80] Transitions can be hard. -[2901.80 --> 2907.80] And we pray that you give us each a generous measure of patience for each other. -[2907.80 --> 2916.80] Lord, we also bring up in thanksgiving for the successful surgeries. -[2916.80 --> 2920.80] Hip replacement for Emily Klingelting and Judy Versteg. -[2920.80 --> 2924.80] Lord, both of them had smooth procedures. -[2924.80 --> 2929.80] And we thank you so much that those went well. -[2929.80 --> 2931.80] And we pray for the recovery process. -[2931.80 --> 2933.80] Lord, it can be long. -[2933.80 --> 2934.80] It can be slow. -[2934.80 --> 2936.80] It can be challenging. -[2936.80 --> 2940.80] And so I pray that you would give them patience. -[2940.80 --> 2947.80] And that their community and family would surround them as they regain their strength. -[2947.80 --> 2960.80] Lord, we turn to you asking for your strength for those who are struggling with health issues. -[2960.80 --> 2965.80] We first lift up those with mental health challenges. -[2965.80 --> 2970.80] Lord, this can be really hard. -[2970.80 --> 2974.80] We have all been touched by it. -[2974.80 --> 2977.80] Whether ourselves or knowing someone. -[2977.80 --> 2981.80] Or maybe even we don't know the person beside us. -[2981.80 --> 2983.80] What they're struggling with. -[2983.80 --> 2985.80] Sometimes it can be hidden. -[2985.80 --> 2989.80] Sometimes it can be right in front of our face, Lord. -[2989.80 --> 2995.80] And sometimes we don't know how to deal with it. -[2996.80 --> 3000.80] And maybe sometimes it's something that can't be dealt with. -[3000.80 --> 3003.80] And we just need to sit in that. -[3003.80 --> 3017.80] Lord, give us the patience and the grace and the love that we need to sit with people as they walk hard, dark roads. -[3017.80 --> 3024.80] May your peace and comfort and healing surround those who are struggling with mental health challenges. -[3024.80 --> 3029.80] And we pray for strength. -[3029.80 --> 3034.80] Lord, we also want to lift up those who are having physical challenges. -[3034.80 --> 3038.80] We think especially of Tara and her family. -[3038.80 --> 3040.80] Her husband. -[3040.80 --> 3046.80] He's been suffering from a disintegrating disc disease. -[3046.80 --> 3052.80] For those of us who don't have or haven't had back pain. -[3052.80 --> 3060.80] We probably don't even know the measure of pain that he has experienced and is continuing to experience. -[3061.80 --> 3064.80] Lord, we pray for strength in that. -[3065.80 --> 3067.80] We pray for healing. -[3068.80 --> 3071.80] We pray that the right treatments would come along. -[3072.80 --> 3077.80] We give wisdom to the doctors who are involved in his care. -[3077.80 --> 3087.80] Lord, we also think of Tara's brother-in-law who's in the hospital after suffering two strokes. -[3089.80 --> 3098.80] This wild change of life is hard for him and is hard for the family around him. -[3098.80 --> 3101.80] It's a long road, Lord. -[3101.80 --> 3103.80] A lot of changes. -[3103.80 --> 3106.80] We pray for patience. -[3107.80 --> 3114.80] We pray that that slow progression would bring a sense of comfort for them. -[3115.80 --> 3117.80] But we know that it can be hard. -[3117.80 --> 3120.80] It can be really hard, the changes in life that that brings. -[3120.80 --> 3127.80] And so we pray that you would be with him in those moments. -[3130.80 --> 3133.80] We also want to lift up Lena. -[3134.80 --> 3138.80] Lena is back in the hospital after having a fall. -[3141.80 --> 3144.80] Lord, we pray for whatever pain that she's experiencing. -[3144.80 --> 3152.80] And we pray that things would move along so that they can determine what needs to be done for her. -[3153.80 --> 3154.80] Lord. -[3159.80 --> 3164.80] We also pray for the parents in our midst with sick children. -[3165.80 --> 3167.80] The children who keep getting sick. -[3167.80 --> 3173.80] Who seem to recover for maybe a day, maybe a week, and then get sick again and bring it home. -[3173.80 --> 3176.80] And then the parents get sick, Lord. -[3176.80 --> 3179.80] This can be a very frustrating cycle. -[3180.80 --> 3187.80] Especially with plans and life going on, having to cancel, having to move things around, having to be flexible. -[3188.80 --> 3191.80] And Lord, the toll of having to take care of sick children. -[3192.80 --> 3197.80] It can be hard to have patience in those moments. -[3197.80 --> 3199.80] And maybe hard to have strength. -[3199.80 --> 3203.80] Lord, I pray that you would bring healing. -[3203.80 --> 3205.80] We thank you for this warm weather. -[3206.80 --> 3209.80] That we can all go outside and enjoy it. -[3209.80 --> 3211.80] And we pray for more sun. -[3212.80 --> 3216.80] And pray that that would boost our health, Lord. -[3218.80 --> 3220.80] But we know that sickness comes around. -[3220.80 --> 3224.80] And so we pray for those that are continuing to struggle with that, that you would walk with them. -[3226.80 --> 3228.80] Lord, we also pray for Tessa. -[3229.80 --> 3233.80] As we learned that she had surgery to remove a tumor. -[3234.80 --> 3239.80] And she's regaining strength, which is good and encouraging, but she has a road ahead of her still. -[3239.80 --> 3262.80] Lord, this, for some of us, for those especially close to her, can be really hard to watch the process of treatment and hope for healing, but not knowing the future. -[3262.80 --> 3277.80] Lord, we also pray for Doug, Elise Wagner's dad, Tanya, Amanda Hogawoning's sister and class test maker's daughter. -[3277.80 --> 3284.80] These are all people in our communities who are struggling with cancer. -[3285.80 --> 3289.80] As well as Joan, Clary's sister. -[3293.80 --> 3295.80] Sometimes we don't understand it. -[3295.80 --> 3300.80] And that's really hard. -[3301.80 --> 3302.80] We don't understand the why. -[3304.80 --> 3308.80] We don't necessarily see the hope. -[3309.80 --> 3311.80] But we hold on to that glimmer of hope. -[3312.80 --> 3314.80] That you are our God. -[3317.80 --> 3320.80] And that you hold everything and everyone in your hands. -[3320.80 --> 3324.80] Which sometimes can make us angry. -[3326.80 --> 3327.80] In the why. -[3328.80 --> 3334.80] We pray that you would soften our hearts and open us to your love. -[3335.80 --> 3337.80] And hear your voice. -[3337.80 --> 3338.80] I hear you. -[3339.80 --> 3340.80] I see you. -[3341.80 --> 3342.80] In the tears by the hospital beds. -[3343.80 --> 3347.80] In the hard times when life is changing. -[3347.80 --> 3348.80] Be with us, Lord. -[3350.80 --> 3352.80] Thank you for listening to our prayers. -[3355.80 --> 3356.80] We pray. -[3357.80 --> 3361.80] As we turn to your message, Lord. -[3362.80 --> 3363.80] That you would be with Curtis. -[3364.80 --> 3368.80] And that you would open our hearts and our eyes to see you and hear your word. -[3369.80 --> 3370.80] In your name we pray. -[3370.80 --> 3371.80] Amen. -[3371.80 --> 3372.80] Good morning. -[3373.80 --> 3374.80] Good morning. -[3374.80 --> 3376.80] It's good to be here. -[3376.80 --> 3378.80] See some familiar faces. -[3378.80 --> 3391.58] Good morning. -[3393.10 --> 3396.26] It's good to be here, see some familiar faces. -[3397.32 --> 3399.52] For those of you who don't know me, my name is Curtis Maliefsta. -[3400.10 --> 3404.68] I'm a member at Cornerstone Christian Reformed Church in Salmon Arm, and so I bring greetings -[3404.68 --> 3406.78] from your sister church up in the interior. -[3406.78 --> 3413.08] And I know this building, this church family has a special place in the hearts of some -[3413.08 --> 3417.16] of us because of Reactivate, and many of our youth look forward to coming here every year, -[3417.26 --> 3417.90] as do I. -[3418.88 --> 3423.98] So I would invite you to turn in your Bibles to Colossians chapter 1 with me. -[3424.68 --> 3430.58] We're going to read the first 14 verses, and we're going to focus on the last few, verses -[3430.58 --> 3431.42] 9 to 14. -[3436.78 --> 3442.08] Colossians chapter 1, verse 1, Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus, by the will of God and Timothy, -[3442.24 --> 3447.74] our brother, to the saints and faithful brothers in Christ at Colossae, grace to you and peace -[3447.74 --> 3448.78] from God our Father. -[3448.78 --> 3454.16] We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, since we -[3454.16 --> 3459.46] heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints because -[3459.46 --> 3461.30] of the hope laid up for you in heaven. -[3461.96 --> 3466.58] Of this you have heard before in the word of truth, the gospel, which has come to you -[3466.58 --> 3471.72] as indeed in the whole world that is bearing fruit and increasing as it also does among -[3471.72 --> 3477.16] you since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth, just as you learned -[3477.16 --> 3480.26] it from Epaphras, our fellow beloved servant. -[3480.96 --> 3486.32] He is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf and has made known to us your love in -[3486.32 --> 3486.68] the Spirit. -[3487.80 --> 3492.66] And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may -[3492.66 --> 3497.98] be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so -[3497.98 --> 3504.12] as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every -[3504.12 --> 3510.88] good work and increasing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power, according -[3510.88 --> 3516.32] to his glorious might for all endurance and patience with joy, giving thanks to the Father -[3516.32 --> 3521.24] who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. -[3521.84 --> 3527.48] He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his -[3527.48 --> 3532.54] beloved Son in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. -[3533.04 --> 3534.16] This is the word of the Lord. -[3534.88 --> 3535.90] Thanks be to God. -[3536.38 --> 3537.44] Let's pray together. -[3538.58 --> 3543.58] Our Father in heaven, we come before your throne this morning and we ask now that you would -[3543.58 --> 3548.62] give us ears to hear, that you might anoint the preaching of your word by your Holy Spirit -[3548.62 --> 3554.44] to sound forth with great power and authority, and that you might do a work in our hearts, -[3554.44 --> 3557.12] just what each one of us needs to hear. -[3557.78 --> 3559.26] We pray this in Jesus' name. -[3559.44 --> 3559.68] Amen. -[3562.36 --> 3567.02] You've likely heard the phrase, walk the walk, don't just talk the talk. -[3567.46 --> 3569.78] This is a common phrase, pregnant with meaning. -[3569.90 --> 3570.66] It gets thrown about. -[3570.80 --> 3576.14] I remember hearing it in elementary school, and I don't know how much it gets used today, -[3576.14 --> 3581.78] but it's funny that this is still a common phrase, and yet we hear an echo of it in the -[3581.78 --> 3586.72] text in Colossians where Paul talks about walking in a manner worthy of the Lord. -[3587.66 --> 3590.22] What we do regularly and what Paul is doing is the same thing. -[3590.22 --> 3598.60] He's drawing on ancient wisdom literature to say that the path of life often is exemplified -[3598.60 --> 3599.48] in this pathway. -[3599.66 --> 3601.26] We can walk in a manner worthy of the Lord. -[3601.26 --> 3607.72] We can choose two paths, two paths diverge in a yellow wood, as Robert Frost has said. -[3609.42 --> 3613.40] And so I was wondering when I came across this passage, well, what does Paul really mean -[3613.40 --> 3615.08] when he says walk in a manner worthy of the Lord? -[3615.10 --> 3620.82] Because embedded within this Thanksgiving section of Paul is some encouragement and some advice -[3620.82 --> 3627.00] from Paul to the church in Colossae, and now from God through Paul to us today, this morning. -[3627.00 --> 3632.04] And so the question that we have is what is in there for us? -[3632.08 --> 3634.84] Because the Bible is not written to us, it's written for us. -[3634.88 --> 3639.44] So when Paul says to the church, walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, we should know what -[3639.44 --> 3643.68] that means generally, and maybe we should think a little bit more specifically about that. -[3643.80 --> 3644.80] And so that's what we're going to look at. -[3646.30 --> 3651.68] The words that God has given to the church in Colossae and indeed for us this morning is -[3651.68 --> 3656.18] fitting for us today because of the hope laid up in heaven that Paul mentions in verse -[3656.18 --> 3663.22] five, which is the good news that Christ conquers, has conquered sin and reigns victorious on -[3663.22 --> 3665.62] the earth, and that is indeed good news. -[3666.08 --> 3669.40] Because brothers and sisters, what really could be better news than that? -[3669.46 --> 3674.38] The same God that paid the price for you, the same God that rules over all creation, the -[3674.38 --> 3681.84] same God that has created it, the same God who's created and fashioned you, desires you, -[3682.30 --> 3684.08] wants to rescue you, wants to redeem you. -[3684.08 --> 3689.12] And indeed he has done that on the cross and he wants to walk with you and talk with you. -[3690.34 --> 3695.86] And so from this passage, we are to be encouraged in our walk with Christ. -[3696.38 --> 3703.70] We are to be empowered in our walk with Christ and we can be emboldened in our walk with Christ. -[3704.00 --> 3706.48] Encouraged, empowered, and emboldened. -[3706.48 --> 3713.86] Paul tends to write his letters in a similar style and this letter to the church in Colossae -[3713.86 --> 3715.38] is no different. -[3716.00 --> 3720.18] He greets the church always, you're probably familiar with that, and then he enters into -[3720.18 --> 3724.52] a little section of thanksgiving where he thanks the church for the things that they -[3724.52 --> 3729.04] are doing and he reminds them of what Paul is thankful for. -[3729.04 --> 3733.56] And there's a few notable moments in this particular thanksgiving section. -[3734.20 --> 3738.12] The preceding verses, not part of our focus, but the context is important. -[3739.18 --> 3742.84] Paul's thankful for the love of the saints for their fellow Christians. -[3743.56 --> 3746.32] He's thankful for the work of God among them. -[3746.88 --> 3750.98] And he is thankful for Epaphras, this fellow beloved minister. -[3750.98 --> 3754.68] But in verse 9, the tone of the thanksgiving shifts. -[3755.66 --> 3758.96] The and so indicates that there's a shift in the tone. -[3759.02 --> 3762.80] And this isn't just because Paul wants to make another list, it's because he's doing -[3762.80 --> 3763.74] something else. -[3764.38 --> 3770.30] As Pastor Chris probably remembers from New Testament class with Dr. Wyma, Paul is a very -[3770.30 --> 3771.06] good letter writer. -[3771.90 --> 3776.30] And when he makes shifts in the way he writes, we should pay attention because he doesn't do -[3776.30 --> 3778.68] these things by accident. -[3778.68 --> 3785.64] And so, Paul makes this shift and he brings out this idiom of walking through life. -[3786.12 --> 3788.78] And this is Paul's encouragement to the Colossians. -[3789.70 --> 3794.30] It might be similar if I came here and I said, thank you, Langley, Emmanuel, Christian -[3794.30 --> 3796.34] Form Church for welcoming me into your pulpit. -[3796.62 --> 3801.22] I've heard from my good friend Kevin that you guys are all very good at listening to sermons. -[3802.06 --> 3803.16] And you might think, oh, that's very nice. -[3803.24 --> 3804.24] Kevin said that about us. -[3804.48 --> 3805.44] I know Curtis affirmed it. -[3805.44 --> 3810.60] But what's really going on is I'm encouraging you to continue in that way, that you would -[3810.60 --> 3811.50] be more inclined. -[3811.54 --> 3812.74] We do this with our kids all the time. -[3813.28 --> 3815.08] My kids do something good and I say, oh, good job. -[3815.12 --> 3816.12] That's really good that you did that. -[3816.30 --> 3820.12] It's not because I just want to thank them for doing it, because I want to encourage them -[3820.12 --> 3821.58] to do more of that good thing. -[3822.26 --> 3823.66] And so, Paul does the same thing. -[3823.66 --> 3830.46] And so, he does this by saying that he's praying for them to be filled with the knowledge of -[3830.46 --> 3835.42] God's will, to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to bear good fruit, and to increase -[3835.42 --> 3836.44] in the knowledge of God. -[3836.86 --> 3841.04] These are things that the Colossians have been doing through the work of Epaphras and through -[3841.04 --> 3841.82] the work of the Holy Spirit. -[3842.26 --> 3844.30] And Paul wants them to do more of it. -[3844.30 --> 3850.26] And so, we know what they're doing because of Epaphras, and Paul wants to encourage them -[3850.26 --> 3851.52] in those ways. -[3851.64 --> 3853.00] But why does he want to do that? -[3853.60 --> 3856.48] Because these are things that the church in Colossae struggled with. -[3856.62 --> 3862.26] Colossae was on a significant trade route in Asia Minor, which meant like many cities -[3862.26 --> 3867.38] of their day, they were pressured by many different worldviews and religions. -[3867.38 --> 3874.52] And so, in this particular city, there was significant worship of Zeus, of Apollo, of Artemis, and -[3874.52 --> 3878.98] of course, the imperial cult where everybody was called to worship the Caesar. -[3880.60 --> 3887.02] And so, Paul is encouraging these Christians to be different than the world around them and -[3887.02 --> 3890.64] to live in according to their understanding of Christ. -[3891.56 --> 3897.30] He encourages them in four ways to exemplify this lifestyle, bearing fruit, growing, being -[3897.30 --> 3898.74] empowered, and giving thanks. -[3899.38 --> 3904.24] And according to the Scriptures, these are aspects of the Christian life that make Christian -[3904.24 --> 3907.96] living unique compared to other ways of life. -[3909.08 --> 3914.34] And what's important to notice here in that by the way of Paul's writing, he's encouraging -[3914.34 --> 3920.32] the church in Colossae and indeed encouraging us today to increase in these areas of life because -[3920.32 --> 3923.32] that is what God desires for His disciples. -[3923.32 --> 3929.50] These features of the Christian life and of the Colossian Christians should increase in them. -[3930.88 --> 3931.88] What are they bearing fruit? -[3932.30 --> 3935.20] Growing in the knowledge of Christ, being empowered, and giving thanks. -[3936.98 --> 3939.70] But Paul doesn't leave the Colossians without hope. -[3939.76 --> 3942.36] He doesn't just say, do more of that, and then he leaves them there. -[3942.76 --> 3947.84] Because we know, probably quite intimately, if we examine our own hearts and our own souls, -[3947.84 --> 3951.30] that sometimes this feels like a futile effort. -[3952.10 --> 3956.54] The best laid plans are often abandoned when it comes to Christian discipleship. -[3956.60 --> 3962.30] Who's already given up on their 2025 Bible reading plan because they fell too far behind? -[3962.72 --> 3968.18] Why do we have a litany of confession and assurance every single week in our Sunday worship? -[3968.28 --> 3973.58] It's because we know we come into this place having failed at what we've desired to do around -[3973.58 --> 3974.94] Christian living. -[3976.88 --> 3982.84] For the Colossian Christians in the first century, to be a Christian was a monumental task. -[3983.32 --> 3986.40] Having to resist the cultural and political pressures at every turn. -[3986.66 --> 3989.38] It's not really unlike our world today. -[3990.24 --> 3992.16] Consider this reality for a moment. -[3992.28 --> 3997.52] It wasn't long ago that the invention of radio and television transformed our world. -[3998.52 --> 4000.36] Some people might even remember that still. -[4000.36 --> 4006.76] And then the TV arrived and the internet arrived and the smartphone arrived and it changed our world even more. -[4008.28 --> 4014.20] If you could imagine for a moment, or maybe you can remember, being raised in a Christian home -[4014.20 --> 4016.82] before the advent of radio, television, and the internet, -[4016.82 --> 4025.48] it was easy as parents to have control over what messages your children received or what messages you received. -[4025.48 --> 4030.56] And there's times in the world where we have to recede, we have to retreat from the world, -[4030.62 --> 4031.54] and now is the time to do that. -[4031.58 --> 4035.78] We come into the sanctuary on Sunday morning to worship God and hear the Word and be fed. -[4036.70 --> 4038.32] But there's also times to engage with the world. -[4038.44 --> 4041.70] I don't want to say that, you know, we should run from the world all the time. -[4042.04 --> 4043.22] We have to engage with the world. -[4043.28 --> 4046.08] We have to do groceries and do our civic duties and whatnot. -[4046.08 --> 4051.10] But we live in a world now, very similar to the Colossian world, -[4051.48 --> 4058.34] where the line between the haven of our homes and the danger of the world out there can be very blurred. -[4059.04 --> 4063.02] Most of us have giant TV screens in our living room, -[4063.42 --> 4065.82] and what rolls across those TV screens regularly? -[4066.36 --> 4068.50] Advertisements and worldly messaging. -[4068.50 --> 4074.98] And so, these messages are coming at every turn. -[4075.12 --> 4080.50] Our access to bad content, and we could define bad in a variety of ways, -[4080.60 --> 4083.94] to downright evil things we shouldn't do and just things that are maybe less bad. -[4084.56 --> 4088.04] But our access to bad content is unlimited. -[4088.84 --> 4090.88] So, we're not that different from the Colossian church. -[4090.98 --> 4096.26] We too, like them, have to resist worldly and cultural pressures at every turn. -[4096.26 --> 4099.78] And this is not a small thing to do. -[4100.04 --> 4103.10] Maybe some of you have experienced this where you wake up in the morning, -[4103.24 --> 4107.54] and you look at your phone, and you see the Bible app notification for the verse of the day, -[4107.58 --> 4108.44] and you go to open it. -[4108.48 --> 4111.72] But before you open it, another notification pops up that you click on. -[4112.10 --> 4116.24] And before you know it, you've not read your Bible verse of the day -[4116.24 --> 4117.68] because you saw that it was in Leviticus, -[4117.80 --> 4120.32] and you didn't really want to deal with Leviticus at 6 o'clock in the morning. -[4122.62 --> 4123.78] But we end up wayward. -[4123.78 --> 4127.48] But our fingers lead us astray on our smartphones all the time or on our computers. -[4129.24 --> 4130.28] This is not so different. -[4130.82 --> 4133.02] The Colossians are not so different from our modern context. -[4133.64 --> 4136.78] The Western world now, depending on who you listen to, -[4136.86 --> 4139.30] is going into a post- or anti-Christian state. -[4139.56 --> 4144.56] And while we might remember or we can think about romantically -[4144.56 --> 4149.48] this idea of a general Christian ethic in the world where things are safe for our children, -[4150.06 --> 4151.20] the world's not quite the same. -[4151.20 --> 4154.90] When I was a kid, if it said rated PG, it was fine to watch. -[4154.94 --> 4158.06] And now we might think of those things with a little more skepticism. -[4159.18 --> 4164.46] Our children, we even as adults, engage in a catechesis of the world. -[4164.98 --> 4169.16] And our use of the TV, internet, and iPhones allow that catechesis, -[4169.24 --> 4175.04] that teaching to us, happen at a rate unrivaled by any previous era. -[4175.04 --> 4178.30] It's almost enough to lose hope. -[4179.42 --> 4184.34] It's enough to think that we cannot gain enough knowledge or truth -[4184.34 --> 4188.24] or do enough good work to resist the world's temptations for ourselves -[4188.24 --> 4191.20] or for our children or for our grandchildren. -[4192.74 --> 4198.12] Indeed, you likely, like me, have seen relatives, neighbors, friends, siblings -[4198.12 --> 4203.34] fall from a place of Christian understanding into a place of unbelief. -[4203.88 --> 4204.56] It's tragic. -[4205.62 --> 4208.56] We wonder, you might wonder where God is in all of this. -[4209.28 --> 4211.64] Our life is so pressured by these other messages. -[4212.16 --> 4213.64] We want to do better. -[4213.74 --> 4214.96] We want to be better Christians. -[4215.08 --> 4217.52] We want to grow in our knowledge and our affections of God. -[4217.66 --> 4221.18] And yet, we don't seem to be able to do it. -[4221.18 --> 4226.78] And God, through Paul, gives us hope. -[4227.36 --> 4231.22] We are not left to increase in our Christian walk, -[4231.66 --> 4234.60] to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord by ourselves. -[4235.30 --> 4237.84] Rather, we are empowered to do it. -[4238.40 --> 4241.10] We're empowered to walk with God through prayer, -[4241.96 --> 4243.96] through the knowledge, and through the fact of salvation. -[4245.00 --> 4248.62] Recall for a moment, the text of Focus this morning comes -[4248.62 --> 4251.42] after Paul thanks the Colossians for their faith in Christ. -[4252.02 --> 4255.56] When he says in verse 9 that he has not ceased to pray for them, -[4256.22 --> 4258.06] this is not an empty promise. -[4258.74 --> 4261.18] The earlier statement in verse 3 qualifies them. -[4261.94 --> 4264.12] He even says something similar to the church in Philippi, -[4264.54 --> 4265.84] but God has begun in them. -[4265.94 --> 4268.42] He will continue to complete that work. -[4269.82 --> 4272.74] I think of a quote from one of my favorite theologians, John Webster, -[4273.22 --> 4274.20] who says, -[4274.20 --> 4276.60] the ability to do these things, -[4276.70 --> 4279.40] the ability to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, -[4279.92 --> 4282.64] is given to us by God the Spirit. -[4284.08 --> 4286.00] We can hang our hats on that promise. -[4286.12 --> 4288.24] Our job, as Christians, -[4288.38 --> 4291.46] is just to cooperate with the work that God is already doing. -[4293.92 --> 4295.76] Part of my studies at Calvin Seminary -[4295.76 --> 4298.82] means I go to Grand Rapids once a semester, -[4299.30 --> 4300.54] in October and in February. -[4300.54 --> 4302.16] And while we're there, -[4302.26 --> 4305.56] we often spend one evening as classmates and faculty in a pub -[4305.56 --> 4307.52] and enjoying some good conversation, -[4307.66 --> 4308.92] a lively conversation. -[4309.42 --> 4310.82] You might imagine what would happen -[4310.82 --> 4314.60] when seminary professors and seminary students get together. -[4315.02 --> 4316.72] It doesn't always sound like a discussion, -[4316.82 --> 4317.76] maybe more of an argument, -[4317.90 --> 4319.30] but I assure you they are discussions. -[4321.10 --> 4323.20] And there was a question that was tabled -[4323.20 --> 4326.22] with our systematic theology professor, Dr. Vandenberg, -[4326.22 --> 4327.14] saying, -[4327.80 --> 4328.94] is sanctification, -[4329.80 --> 4330.92] monergistic or synergistic, -[4331.00 --> 4331.28] big words, -[4331.34 --> 4332.04] don't worry about it, -[4332.82 --> 4333.48] is sanctification, -[4333.58 --> 4334.46] the work of God -[4334.46 --> 4336.72] growing us to be more like Christ, -[4336.80 --> 4338.98] is that something that God does without us -[4338.98 --> 4340.74] or something that we do with God? -[4342.22 --> 4343.44] And it's something that we do with God. -[4343.56 --> 4344.74] God is doing that work in us -[4344.74 --> 4347.24] and we just cooperate with God in that work. -[4347.78 --> 4348.48] So our job, -[4348.56 --> 4350.92] when we think of our walk with Christ, -[4350.92 --> 4354.08] is not to retreat from God -[4354.08 --> 4356.70] and just pull ourselves up by our bootstraps -[4356.70 --> 4358.92] and try to read our Bible more -[4358.92 --> 4360.66] and get more involved in church -[4360.66 --> 4362.94] and just do these things from our own sheer will, -[4363.40 --> 4365.82] but rather our job is to surrender -[4365.82 --> 4368.84] to the work that God is already doing in our life -[4368.84 --> 4370.18] and run to Him, -[4371.32 --> 4373.48] to have a posture of receipt from Him. -[4374.50 --> 4375.68] We don't need to think, -[4375.76 --> 4378.30] we shouldn't think that we need to get our lives in order -[4378.30 --> 4380.52] before we can go be better Christians. -[4381.14 --> 4383.22] In fact, we need to realize that we're a mess -[4383.22 --> 4384.92] and we need to run to Christ -[4384.92 --> 4387.44] and He will do that work with us. -[4389.48 --> 4391.10] And so when it comes to Paul saying, -[4391.28 --> 4392.20] I will pray for you -[4392.20 --> 4393.74] and I won't cease to pray for you, -[4394.32 --> 4395.56] this is not an empty promise. -[4395.74 --> 4397.38] This is the work that God is doing -[4397.38 --> 4399.34] in the church at Colossae -[4399.34 --> 4401.48] and indeed the work that God is doing -[4401.48 --> 4402.50] in our own lives, -[4402.72 --> 4403.56] in your lives, -[4403.62 --> 4405.20] in the life of this church. -[4405.20 --> 4408.36] It's not just a simple statement about prayer -[4408.36 --> 4410.60] and the promise that God hears our prayer. -[4411.58 --> 4413.62] Paul is doing a more significant work -[4413.62 --> 4416.04] in the text to tell the Christians in Colossae -[4416.04 --> 4418.80] that God is at work among them -[4418.80 --> 4421.24] and so they can know that the Spirit -[4421.24 --> 4424.32] empowers them to continue walking with God. -[4425.12 --> 4425.82] Paul doesn't say, -[4426.18 --> 4427.18] go do these things more, -[4427.64 --> 4428.14] have fun, -[4428.32 --> 4428.94] you're on your own. -[4429.04 --> 4429.34] He says, -[4429.40 --> 4429.54] no, -[4429.62 --> 4430.40] I will pray for you -[4430.40 --> 4432.58] and God will do it with you. -[4432.58 --> 4437.20] The second part of Paul's Thanksgiving section -[4437.20 --> 4438.88] shares many parallels with the first. -[4439.00 --> 4440.72] He's repeating a lot of these things -[4440.72 --> 4442.88] and this connects with the earlier section -[4442.88 --> 4444.96] that encourages the Colossians -[4444.96 --> 4446.90] to continue in these various ways -[4446.90 --> 4447.70] of Christian living. -[4448.58 --> 4448.92] Furthermore, -[4449.16 --> 4450.88] Paul's emphasis on empowerment -[4450.88 --> 4453.10] in these expectations of Christian living -[4453.10 --> 4454.44] comes from verse 9 -[4454.44 --> 4455.80] when he says, -[4455.80 --> 4457.48] that you may be filled -[4457.48 --> 4458.92] with the knowledge of His will -[4458.92 --> 4460.88] in all spiritual wisdom and understanding. -[4460.88 --> 4463.60] What does it mean to be filled with knowledge? -[4464.04 --> 4465.36] I mentioned just a moment ago, -[4465.42 --> 4466.38] it's not about just -[4466.38 --> 4468.46] out of our own sheer will and determination -[4468.46 --> 4470.24] to open up our Bibles more often. -[4471.44 --> 4474.30] Rather, it's a surrender to God -[4474.30 --> 4477.76] because the way that Paul writes this -[4477.76 --> 4479.42] is that somebody else -[4479.42 --> 4480.56] needs to be doing the filling. -[4481.70 --> 4483.04] We are the passive recipients -[4483.04 --> 4485.10] of God filling us with His knowledge. -[4486.80 --> 4487.58] And we might think, -[4487.66 --> 4488.32] well, how does that work? -[4488.38 --> 4489.94] How does God fill us with knowledge? -[4489.94 --> 4491.54] One way, -[4491.86 --> 4493.78] Belgic Confession Article 2 says -[4493.78 --> 4495.98] that God makes Himself known to us -[4495.98 --> 4497.82] more clearly by His holy and divine Word -[4497.82 --> 4499.68] as much as we need in this life -[4499.68 --> 4501.24] for God's glory and for our salvation. -[4501.80 --> 4504.04] So yes, there is practical elements -[4504.04 --> 4505.48] to our Christian living -[4505.48 --> 4507.52] where we should be more diligent -[4507.52 --> 4508.92] in our discipleship -[4508.92 --> 4509.84] and in our Bible reading -[4509.84 --> 4510.62] and our church attendance -[4510.62 --> 4512.96] and going to Bible studies and so on. -[4513.00 --> 4513.82] The life of the church -[4513.82 --> 4516.50] is critically important in this way. -[4516.50 --> 4519.54] But recall that this is not exactly -[4519.54 --> 4520.82] our own sheer will and determination. -[4520.96 --> 4522.08] It's a matter of surrendering -[4522.08 --> 4522.96] to the work of God -[4522.96 --> 4524.06] in our lives already -[4524.06 --> 4525.94] and have that posture -[4525.94 --> 4527.66] of receiving from God. -[4529.26 --> 4530.88] Congregation, this is a great hope -[4530.88 --> 4532.50] and comfort for the Colossian church -[4532.50 --> 4534.04] and indeed a great hope -[4534.04 --> 4535.58] and comfort for us today -[4535.58 --> 4538.98] because God is at work in His church -[4538.98 --> 4540.88] and He will continue -[4540.88 --> 4542.04] to help us grow -[4542.04 --> 4544.14] more and more like Christ. -[4544.14 --> 4546.64] So hopefully at this point -[4546.64 --> 4547.84] you're feeling maybe -[4547.84 --> 4549.06] like the Colossians felt. -[4549.62 --> 4550.60] Saying, yeah, I'm encouraged. -[4550.74 --> 4551.90] I'm feeling encouraged to do this -[4551.90 --> 4553.06] and I'm feeling empowered. -[4553.50 --> 4555.56] But sometimes that's not enough -[4555.56 --> 4556.66] because we could wake up -[4556.66 --> 4557.14] in the morning -[4557.14 --> 4558.80] and we can walk out that door. -[4558.90 --> 4559.44] We could walk out -[4559.44 --> 4560.42] of the sanctuary today -[4560.42 --> 4563.36] with all sorts of gumption -[4563.36 --> 4564.50] ready to do it. -[4564.60 --> 4566.20] But then as soon as something -[4566.20 --> 4566.82] comes our way -[4566.82 --> 4568.28] we lose all of that courage -[4568.28 --> 4569.56] and we shrink back -[4569.56 --> 4571.50] to our old sinful selves -[4571.50 --> 4572.42] that is kind of the way -[4572.42 --> 4573.18] we're used to being. -[4573.18 --> 4575.36] And so Paul doesn't leave them -[4575.36 --> 4576.46] with just encouragement -[4576.46 --> 4578.22] and empowerment. -[4578.68 --> 4579.82] He also encourages them -[4579.82 --> 4581.34] to be bold in their faith. -[4582.56 --> 4583.84] There's a reason why Paul -[4583.84 --> 4584.78] structures this section -[4584.78 --> 4585.84] of Scripture in this way. -[4586.16 --> 4587.74] He knows that there will be trials. -[4588.22 --> 4588.30] Right? -[4588.36 --> 4589.30] The Colossian church -[4589.30 --> 4591.92] faces all sorts of pressures -[4591.92 --> 4593.44] against their way of life -[4593.44 --> 4594.58] and their worldview -[4594.58 --> 4596.18] very much like ours. -[4597.18 --> 4599.12] There are constant worldly pressures -[4599.12 --> 4600.98] that cause us to doubt our faith -[4600.98 --> 4602.96] or to stray from the path -[4602.96 --> 4605.60] and there's more existential threats. -[4605.84 --> 4606.20] What do we do -[4606.20 --> 4607.54] with our own questions of doubt? -[4608.24 --> 4608.86] What do we do -[4608.86 --> 4609.66] when we see God -[4609.66 --> 4610.68] acting in the world -[4610.68 --> 4613.18] in ways that don't make sense to us? -[4614.02 --> 4615.00] When we hear about -[4615.00 --> 4615.84] brothers and sisters -[4615.84 --> 4617.32] who are suffering terribly -[4617.32 --> 4619.08] because of illness -[4619.08 --> 4619.94] or disability -[4619.94 --> 4621.46] or mental health -[4621.46 --> 4622.48] and we don't think -[4622.48 --> 4624.04] we don't seem to find an answer -[4624.04 --> 4625.04] as to why God -[4625.04 --> 4626.64] is allowing that to happen. -[4626.64 --> 4628.92] When it seems like -[4628.92 --> 4631.26] our own battle against sin -[4631.26 --> 4631.88] in our lives -[4631.88 --> 4632.66] is futile. -[4633.34 --> 4634.08] You've been struggling -[4634.08 --> 4635.48] with the specific sin -[4635.48 --> 4636.54] in your life for years -[4636.54 --> 4637.30] decades -[4637.30 --> 4638.70] and it does not go away. -[4640.76 --> 4641.74] What do we do? -[4642.72 --> 4644.54] God has a reminder for us. -[4645.68 --> 4646.56] Paul reminded -[4646.56 --> 4647.86] the Colossians -[4647.86 --> 4648.74] of a simple fact -[4648.74 --> 4649.74] that we cannot deny -[4649.74 --> 4650.82] when we look -[4650.82 --> 4652.06] at the work of Christ -[4652.06 --> 4653.36] as summarized -[4653.36 --> 4654.80] in verses 13 and 14 -[4654.80 --> 4656.18] when he says -[4656.18 --> 4657.68] that He has transferred us -[4657.68 --> 4659.10] from the domain of darkness -[4659.10 --> 4659.88] and into the kingdom -[4659.88 --> 4661.22] of His beloved Son. -[4662.26 --> 4663.64] Paul's using language -[4663.64 --> 4666.64] similar to Exodus chapter 6 -[4666.64 --> 4667.88] when Paul says -[4667.88 --> 4669.18] that God has delivered us, -[4669.24 --> 4670.10] He's transferred us, -[4670.14 --> 4671.04] He's redeemed us, -[4671.44 --> 4672.54] He's forgiven us. -[4673.06 --> 4674.06] This is the same motif -[4674.06 --> 4674.68] that he's drawing -[4674.68 --> 4675.32] out of the Israelites -[4675.32 --> 4676.30] coming out of Egypt -[4676.30 --> 4678.36] and into what eventually -[4678.36 --> 4679.58] will be the promised land. -[4680.24 --> 4681.36] And so we can easily -[4681.36 --> 4682.34] see these connections. -[4682.34 --> 4685.06] Paul makes this statement -[4685.06 --> 4685.78] with this allusion -[4685.78 --> 4687.36] because it reminds us -[4687.36 --> 4688.56] of God's handiwork, -[4688.76 --> 4689.52] God's victory, -[4689.74 --> 4692.16] God's reigning over His world. -[4693.54 --> 4694.14] These would have been -[4694.14 --> 4695.08] familiar stories -[4695.08 --> 4695.92] to Jewish, -[4696.14 --> 4697.04] former Jewish Christians -[4697.04 --> 4698.46] and they know -[4698.46 --> 4699.32] these stories well -[4699.32 --> 4700.40] just like many of us -[4700.40 --> 4700.98] know the story -[4700.98 --> 4702.52] of the Exodus well. -[4703.14 --> 4703.52] And we know -[4703.52 --> 4704.40] that there's many layers -[4704.40 --> 4705.08] of significance -[4705.08 --> 4705.76] and meaning -[4705.76 --> 4707.50] to the story of Exodus -[4707.50 --> 4708.54] but we also know -[4708.54 --> 4709.64] that it is simply -[4709.64 --> 4710.64] a historical fact -[4710.64 --> 4712.36] that God rescued -[4712.36 --> 4714.38] His people from Egypt. -[4715.60 --> 4716.46] But to kind of illustrate -[4716.46 --> 4717.36] this idea of being -[4717.36 --> 4718.56] emboldened by the work -[4718.56 --> 4718.92] of God, -[4719.02 --> 4720.08] let me draw out -[4720.08 --> 4721.78] a little motif -[4721.78 --> 4722.92] from the later chapters -[4722.92 --> 4723.36] of Exodus. -[4724.44 --> 4724.74] The Israelites -[4724.74 --> 4725.58] come out of Egypt, -[4725.88 --> 4727.08] they go to Mount Sinai -[4727.08 --> 4728.12] and Moses ascends -[4728.12 --> 4728.60] to the top -[4728.60 --> 4729.94] to receive the tablets -[4729.94 --> 4730.48] of the law -[4730.48 --> 4731.82] and in Exodus 32 -[4731.82 --> 4732.78] he descends -[4732.78 --> 4733.44] from the mountain. -[4734.40 --> 4735.64] These rescued people -[4735.64 --> 4736.84] from slavery -[4736.84 --> 4737.90] and what does -[4737.90 --> 4738.94] He find them doing? -[4739.66 --> 4740.10] Worshipping -[4740.10 --> 4741.94] the golden calf. -[4742.96 --> 4743.82] Worldly pressures -[4743.82 --> 4744.50] got to them -[4744.50 --> 4746.06] and they succumbed. -[4746.94 --> 4747.48] Aaron offers -[4747.48 --> 4748.16] some excuses -[4748.16 --> 4749.28] and Moses is angry. -[4750.60 --> 4752.26] But in Exodus 35 -[4752.26 --> 4755.22] Moses starts teaching -[4755.22 --> 4755.98] about how God -[4755.98 --> 4756.54] wants them to build -[4756.54 --> 4757.22] their tabernacle -[4757.22 --> 4758.22] and He puts a call -[4758.22 --> 4758.82] to them -[4758.82 --> 4761.08] to donate -[4761.08 --> 4761.84] their riches -[4761.84 --> 4763.26] to build -[4763.26 --> 4764.06] the tabernacle. -[4764.14 --> 4764.44] Now remember -[4764.44 --> 4765.42] they had donated already -[4765.42 --> 4765.96] a whole bunch -[4765.96 --> 4766.46] of their plunder -[4766.46 --> 4767.04] from the Egyptians -[4767.04 --> 4767.42] to build -[4767.42 --> 4768.18] the golden calf -[4768.18 --> 4769.72] and Moses ground it up, -[4769.78 --> 4770.14] put it in the water -[4770.14 --> 4770.56] and they drank -[4770.56 --> 4771.36] and he wasted it -[4771.36 --> 4772.30] but they still have -[4772.30 --> 4774.14] more to give. -[4775.56 --> 4776.32] And so the Israelites -[4776.32 --> 4777.12] donate their plunder, -[4777.24 --> 4777.94] God calls them -[4777.94 --> 4778.46] into worship, -[4778.68 --> 4779.48] Moses teaches them -[4779.48 --> 4780.18] about the law -[4780.18 --> 4782.08] and says this is -[4782.08 --> 4783.08] how you can respond -[4783.08 --> 4784.38] is by giving your gifts -[4784.38 --> 4785.34] to build the tabernacle -[4785.34 --> 4786.24] and they do. -[4787.14 --> 4787.84] And while the Israelites -[4787.84 --> 4788.74] are not always -[4788.74 --> 4789.74] the best examples -[4789.74 --> 4790.92] of the Christian life, -[4791.92 --> 4792.68] in this case -[4792.68 --> 4793.34] this is a moment -[4793.34 --> 4793.80] where they were -[4793.80 --> 4794.86] emboldened by -[4794.86 --> 4795.80] their faith -[4795.80 --> 4796.60] in God -[4796.60 --> 4797.36] to trust -[4797.36 --> 4798.54] in God -[4798.54 --> 4800.20] and that in many -[4800.20 --> 4800.82] circumstances -[4800.82 --> 4801.56] God would never -[4801.56 --> 4802.20] forsake them, -[4802.56 --> 4803.52] never abandon them -[4803.52 --> 4804.60] and that He will -[4804.60 --> 4805.18] always seek -[4805.18 --> 4806.10] to embolden them -[4806.10 --> 4806.90] in their faith. -[4807.62 --> 4808.88] Paul is calling us -[4808.88 --> 4809.72] to be emboldened -[4809.72 --> 4811.66] not because we have -[4811.66 --> 4812.26] the sheer will -[4812.26 --> 4812.88] and determination -[4812.88 --> 4813.52] the ability -[4813.52 --> 4814.12] to be bold -[4814.12 --> 4814.68] in our faith -[4814.68 --> 4816.18] but because God -[4816.18 --> 4817.54] has already done -[4817.54 --> 4818.20] that work -[4818.20 --> 4819.28] and we can just -[4819.28 --> 4820.42] boast in that work -[4820.42 --> 4820.82] that God -[4820.82 --> 4821.50] has already done. -[4821.88 --> 4822.58] He has already -[4822.58 --> 4823.42] transferred you -[4823.42 --> 4824.10] from the kingdom -[4824.10 --> 4824.64] of darkness -[4824.64 --> 4825.82] into the kingdom -[4825.82 --> 4827.50] of His beloved Son. -[4828.22 --> 4829.10] So to be emboldened -[4829.10 --> 4830.26] is to live by faith, -[4830.62 --> 4831.90] to live with a trust -[4831.90 --> 4832.52] in God -[4832.52 --> 4834.36] and so we ought not -[4834.36 --> 4836.14] fear the world -[4836.14 --> 4837.98] but be bold -[4837.98 --> 4838.96] in our faith. -[4840.46 --> 4841.58] God has not -[4841.58 --> 4842.86] abandoned you -[4842.86 --> 4844.38] to try and live -[4844.38 --> 4845.46] a godly life alone. -[4845.52 --> 4846.70] He does not call you -[4846.70 --> 4847.72] into relationship -[4847.72 --> 4848.28] with Him -[4848.28 --> 4849.12] and then say -[4849.12 --> 4849.82] here's my Bible -[4849.82 --> 4850.42] off you run -[4850.42 --> 4851.16] have a good time -[4851.16 --> 4852.06] figure it out -[4852.06 --> 4852.52] on your own. -[4853.80 --> 4854.92] He doesn't leave you -[4854.92 --> 4856.26] without hope -[4856.26 --> 4858.14] even though He knows -[4858.14 --> 4859.08] that you will face -[4859.08 --> 4859.90] many trials -[4859.90 --> 4861.84] and exist in a world -[4861.84 --> 4862.74] that does not look -[4862.74 --> 4863.48] favorably -[4863.48 --> 4864.74] on Christianity -[4864.74 --> 4866.50] but we can find -[4866.50 --> 4867.34] hope and comfort -[4867.34 --> 4868.14] in a God -[4868.14 --> 4869.22] who ministers -[4869.22 --> 4869.92] to us -[4869.92 --> 4870.80] in those moments -[4870.80 --> 4871.48] of fear, -[4872.30 --> 4872.64] doubt, -[4873.20 --> 4874.00] and despair. -[4875.26 --> 4876.10] In closing, -[4876.32 --> 4877.10] think of it this way. -[4877.72 --> 4878.76] Paul writes this letter -[4878.76 --> 4879.28] to the church -[4879.28 --> 4879.84] in Colossae -[4879.84 --> 4882.24] while he is in prison. -[4883.18 --> 4883.96] We might have -[4883.96 --> 4884.94] a romantic view -[4884.94 --> 4886.92] of first century prisons -[4886.92 --> 4888.20] from our children's Bibles -[4888.20 --> 4889.86] where there's big smiles -[4889.86 --> 4890.68] on their faces -[4890.68 --> 4892.20] and it looks all wonderful -[4892.20 --> 4893.04] and maybe there's a plate -[4893.04 --> 4894.32] of bread for them -[4894.32 --> 4895.58] but we should probably -[4895.58 --> 4896.26] get rid of those. -[4896.80 --> 4897.56] First century prisons -[4897.56 --> 4898.74] were one of the worst places -[4898.74 --> 4899.90] you could ever possibly -[4899.90 --> 4900.98] find yourself. -[4901.12 --> 4901.88] Dark, dingy, -[4902.34 --> 4902.92] disease-ridden, -[4903.06 --> 4903.60] infested, -[4904.24 --> 4905.70] disgusting places. -[4906.60 --> 4907.68] Maybe the closest place -[4907.68 --> 4908.40] that you might think -[4908.40 --> 4909.30] you could find hell -[4909.30 --> 4909.80] on earth. -[4911.02 --> 4911.90] But what is the tone -[4911.90 --> 4912.66] of Paul's letter? -[4914.10 --> 4915.50] Does Paul let that -[4915.50 --> 4916.84] dark, dingy, -[4917.10 --> 4918.26] despairing attitude -[4918.26 --> 4918.92] around him -[4918.92 --> 4920.18] seep into his -[4920.18 --> 4921.08] letter writing? -[4922.20 --> 4922.94] No, his tone -[4922.94 --> 4923.70] of letter writing -[4923.70 --> 4924.74] is thanksgiving -[4924.74 --> 4925.44] and gratitude -[4925.44 --> 4926.56] for what God -[4926.56 --> 4927.26] has done -[4927.26 --> 4927.66] in the church -[4927.66 --> 4928.28] of Colossae -[4928.28 --> 4929.48] and will continue -[4929.48 --> 4929.96] to do -[4929.96 --> 4930.56] in the church -[4930.56 --> 4931.66] of Colossae. -[4932.62 --> 4933.64] Paul hearkens back -[4933.64 --> 4934.56] to the Exodus story -[4934.56 --> 4935.56] as an encouragement -[4935.56 --> 4936.94] for the salvation -[4936.94 --> 4937.72] that is secured -[4937.72 --> 4938.74] in Christ. -[4939.60 --> 4940.06] And we, -[4940.28 --> 4941.04] as Christians today, -[4941.54 --> 4942.32] we can be reminded -[4942.32 --> 4943.00] of that moment -[4943.00 --> 4944.16] of Exodus. -[4944.30 --> 4945.02] We can be reminded -[4945.02 --> 4945.58] of this moment -[4945.58 --> 4945.96] in the church -[4945.96 --> 4946.64] of Colossae -[4946.64 --> 4947.74] where God -[4947.74 --> 4948.76] was at work -[4948.76 --> 4949.86] through Paul -[4949.86 --> 4950.34] to them -[4950.34 --> 4951.62] and be reminded -[4951.62 --> 4952.38] that God -[4952.38 --> 4953.28] is indeed -[4953.28 --> 4954.46] at work today -[4954.46 --> 4955.58] in the midst -[4955.58 --> 4956.28] of this church -[4956.28 --> 4956.86] as well, -[4956.90 --> 4957.20] in the midst -[4957.20 --> 4958.04] of your life. -[4958.76 --> 4959.46] So people of God, -[4959.54 --> 4960.54] it is our joy, -[4961.46 --> 4962.08] it is our joy -[4962.08 --> 4962.68] to walk -[4962.68 --> 4963.70] in a manner -[4963.70 --> 4965.34] pleasing to God. -[4967.96 --> 4968.80] It's our joy -[4968.80 --> 4969.56] to walk that way. -[4969.68 --> 4970.94] It's a gracious response -[4970.94 --> 4972.20] to the completed work -[4972.20 --> 4973.20] of Christ -[4973.20 --> 4974.46] which was done -[4974.46 --> 4975.30] for our salvation. -[4975.46 --> 4976.32] We have the pleasure -[4976.32 --> 4977.56] of living -[4977.56 --> 4978.30] to bear fruit, -[4978.40 --> 4978.96] to grow empowered -[4978.96 --> 4979.70] and to give thanks -[4979.70 --> 4980.52] because God -[4980.52 --> 4981.74] is doing it with us. -[4982.12 --> 4983.96] This is a relational task. -[4984.06 --> 4984.74] We're not doing it -[4984.74 --> 4985.34] on our own. -[4986.42 --> 4987.36] God will increase -[4987.36 --> 4988.18] this in us -[4988.18 --> 4989.56] and we will bear -[4989.56 --> 4990.52] the fruit of the Spirit. -[4991.26 --> 4991.90] We will grow -[4991.90 --> 4992.72] in our knowledge -[4992.72 --> 4993.54] and love of Christ -[4993.54 --> 4994.82] and we will be empowered -[4994.82 --> 4996.32] by God the Spirit -[4996.32 --> 4996.98] to live -[4996.98 --> 4998.28] in a godly manner -[4998.28 --> 4999.52] that harbors -[4999.52 --> 5000.46] the spirit of gratitude. -[5001.68 --> 5002.70] Brothers and sisters, -[5003.66 --> 5004.88] God is at work -[5004.88 --> 5005.58] among us. -[5005.80 --> 5006.38] He's at work -[5006.38 --> 5007.38] in you -[5007.38 --> 5008.18] encouraging, -[5008.96 --> 5009.42] empowering, -[5010.10 --> 5011.14] and emboldening you -[5011.14 --> 5011.82] to walk -[5011.82 --> 5013.04] the walk of faith -[5013.04 --> 5014.38] in Jesus Christ. -[5015.00 --> 5015.36] Amen. -[5016.04 --> 5016.70] Let me pray. -[5018.56 --> 5019.40] Father in heaven, -[5019.48 --> 5020.16] we thank you -[5020.16 --> 5021.24] for your word -[5021.24 --> 5021.80] to us today. -[5022.66 --> 5023.30] We marvel -[5023.30 --> 5024.64] at the way -[5024.64 --> 5026.60] that these events -[5026.60 --> 5028.22] happened so many years ago. -[5028.58 --> 5029.26] Paul in prison, -[5029.38 --> 5030.20] writing to a church -[5030.20 --> 5030.88] in Colossae -[5030.88 --> 5032.60] and that these documents -[5032.60 --> 5033.50] were saved -[5033.50 --> 5034.86] and preserved -[5034.86 --> 5035.84] for our benefit today -[5035.84 --> 5036.44] and that you -[5036.44 --> 5037.76] are at work in them. -[5038.68 --> 5038.88] So Lord, -[5038.92 --> 5039.66] I pray that you would -[5039.66 --> 5041.02] continue this work -[5041.02 --> 5041.68] in our lives, -[5042.28 --> 5042.68] that you would -[5042.68 --> 5043.50] encourage us, -[5043.68 --> 5044.22] empower us, -[5044.24 --> 5045.00] and embolden us -[5045.00 --> 5046.14] to be Christians -[5046.14 --> 5046.86] as we go into -[5046.86 --> 5047.76] our workplaces, -[5047.92 --> 5048.58] into our communities, -[5048.72 --> 5049.54] into our families. -[5049.54 --> 5050.84] And Lord, -[5050.90 --> 5051.48] that your kingdom -[5051.48 --> 5052.64] would come -[5052.64 --> 5053.32] and the people -[5053.32 --> 5053.74] around us -[5053.74 --> 5054.48] would see a glimpse -[5054.48 --> 5055.14] of your goodness. -[5055.80 --> 5056.26] We pray this -[5056.26 --> 5056.70] in your name. -[5056.96 --> 5057.20] Amen. -[5059.70 --> 5060.62] I think we'll stand -[5060.62 --> 5061.10] and sing -[5061.10 --> 5062.16] one more song -[5062.16 --> 5063.00] or two more songs. -[5063.90 --> 5064.90] One of my favorite songs -[5064.90 --> 5065.44] we'll sing is -[5065.44 --> 5066.28] Yet Not I, -[5066.34 --> 5067.26] But Through Christ and Me. -[5067.84 --> 5068.48] A good reminder -[5068.48 --> 5070.96] that the great hymn writers -[5070.96 --> 5071.60] aren't all dead. -[5071.68 --> 5072.08] There are still -[5072.08 --> 5072.72] great hymn writers -[5072.72 --> 5073.28] alive today -[5073.28 --> 5074.00] writing good, -[5074.38 --> 5074.92] biblical hymns -[5074.92 --> 5075.62] that we get to sing. -[5075.62 --> 5075.72] Amen. -[5075.72 --> 5075.92] Amen. -[5104.92 --> 5107.00] Grace is Jesus, -[5107.24 --> 5109.10] my Redeemer. -[5109.96 --> 5112.38] There is no more -[5112.38 --> 5115.82] for heaven now to give. -[5116.54 --> 5118.90] He is my joy, -[5119.08 --> 5120.24] my righteousness, -[5120.24 --> 5122.08] and freedom, -[5123.14 --> 5125.52] my steadfast love, -[5125.64 --> 5129.24] my deep and boundless kiss. -[5129.24 --> 5132.14] To this I hope, -[5132.24 --> 5135.24] my hope is only Jesus, -[5136.56 --> 5142.36] for my life is wholly bound to His. -[5143.04 --> 5146.04] Oh, how strange and divine -[5146.04 --> 5147.86] I can see, -[5148.16 --> 5149.80] all is mine, -[5149.90 --> 5151.36] yet not I, -[5151.56 --> 5154.56] but through Christ in me. -[5159.24 --> 5171.20] The night is dark, -[5171.20 --> 5174.20] but I am not forsaken, -[5175.20 --> 5177.66] for by my side -[5177.66 --> 5180.98] the Savior He will stay. -[5181.74 --> 5185.26] I labor on in weakness -[5185.26 --> 5187.50] and rejoicing, -[5187.50 --> 5190.38] for in my need -[5190.38 --> 5193.46] His power is displayed. -[5194.82 --> 5196.46] To this I hope, -[5197.32 --> 5200.46] my shepherd will defend me, -[5201.46 --> 5204.74] through the deepest valley -[5204.74 --> 5207.04] He will lead. -[5208.14 --> 5211.16] Oh, the night has been won, -[5211.42 --> 5214.00] and I shall overcome, -[5214.00 --> 5215.68] long yet not I, -[5215.68 --> 5220.74] but through Christ in me. -[5232.62 --> 5235.28] No fate I dread, -[5235.96 --> 5238.38] I know I am forgiven, -[5238.38 --> 5245.38] The future's sure, the price it has been paid -[5246.06 --> 5252.04] For Jesus bled and suffered for my pardon -[5252.04 --> 5258.38] And he was raised to overthrow the grave -[5258.38 --> 5264.38] To this I hold, my sin has been forgiven -[5264.38 --> 5271.38] Jesus now and ever is my plea -[5271.38 --> 5278.38] Oh, the chains are released, I can sing, I am free -[5278.38 --> 5284.38] Yet not I, come through Christ with me -[5294.38 --> 5303.38] With every breath I long to follow Jesus -[5303.38 --> 5310.38] For he has said that he will bring me home -[5310.38 --> 5317.38] And day by day I know he will renew me -[5317.38 --> 5323.38] Until I stand with joy before the throne -[5323.38 --> 5330.38] To this I hold, my hope is only Jesus -[5330.38 --> 5336.38] All the glory evermore to him -[5336.38 --> 5343.38] When the race is complete, still my lips shall repeat -[5343.38 --> 5350.38] Yet not I, but through Christ in me -[5350.38 --> 5356.38] When the race is complete, still my lips shall repeat -[5356.38 --> 5362.38] Yet not I, but through Christ in me -[5362.38 --> 5370.38] Yet not I, but through Christ in me -[5370.38 --> 5380.88] People of God, God has called us into worship this morning -[5380.88 --> 5384.32] We've been reconciled to him through confession -[5384.32 --> 5386.48] And through the victorious death of Christ -[5386.48 --> 5389.30] And he has fed us from his preached word -[5389.30 --> 5393.24] Now, people of God, go from this place into the world -[5393.24 --> 5395.84] Into your homes, workplaces, and neighborhoods -[5395.84 --> 5399.52] With this blessing from God's word in Romans chapter 15 -[5399.52 --> 5403.12] May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace -[5403.12 --> 5404.42] As you trust in him -[5404.42 --> 5407.00] So that you may overflow with hope -[5407.00 --> 5409.26] By the power of the Holy Spirit -[5409.26 --> 5410.12] Amen -[5410.46 --> 5414.82] Amen -[5414.82 --> 5418.44] The tomb of my holy Spirit -[5418.44 --> 5441.88] It's my only comfort in my life and in my death -[5441.88 --> 5447.72] You have fully paid for all my sins and all my men -[5447.72 --> 5451.72] Even when I struggle to believe -[5451.72 --> 5457.16] With your precious blood you set me free -[5457.16 --> 5468.36] I am not my own, but give up body and soul -[5468.36 --> 5474.08] In my life and in death -[5474.08 --> 5480.72] To you, Lord Christ my Lord -[5480.72 --> 5486.08] You've reserved my life in such a way that without you -[5486.08 --> 5491.76] Not a hair can fall from me, I bless you with it too -[5491.76 --> 5495.76] Even when I'm lost in desperation -[5495.76 --> 5502.08] All things work together for my salvation -[5502.08 --> 5512.08] I am not my own, but give up body and soul -[5512.08 --> 5518.08] In my life and in death -[5518.08 --> 5524.72] To you, Lord Christ my Lord -[5524.72 --> 5538.72] Always by your holy spirit, you wish you were made -[5538.72 --> 5552.72] Always by your holy spirit, you wish you were made -[5552.72 --> 5556.72] Of eternal life and make me willing and ready -[5556.72 --> 5558.72] Even when I'm lost in desperation -[5558.72 --> 5560.72] Even when I'm lost in desperation -[5560.72 --> 5562.72] Even when I'm lost in desperation -[5562.72 --> 5566.72] I am not my own, but give up body and soul -[5566.72 --> 5578.72] I am not my own, but give up body and soul -[5578.72 --> 5580.72] In my life and in death -[5580.72 --> 5584.72] In my life and in death -[5584.72 --> 5586.72] In my life and in death -[5586.72 --> 5592.72] To you, Lord Christ my Lord -[5592.72 --> 5598.72] I am not my own, but give up body and soul -[5598.72 --> 5600.72] In my life and death -[5600.72 --> 5604.72] In my life and in death -[5604.72 --> 5606.72] In my life and soul -[5606.72 --> 5610.72] In my life and in death -[5610.72 --> 5613.92] I am not my own, but give up body and soul -[5613.92 --> 5616.72] In my life and in death -[5616.72 --> 5618.42] In my life and death -[5618.72 --> 5620.72] In my life and death -[5620.72 --> 5622.72] Oh -[5650.72 --> 5652.72] Oh -[5680.72 --> 5682.72] Oh -[5710.72 --> 5712.72] Oh -[5712.72 --> 5714.72] Oh -[5714.72 --> 5716.72] Oh -[5716.72 --> 5718.72] Oh -[5718.72 --> 5720.72] Oh -[5720.72 --> 5722.72] Oh -[5722.72 --> 5724.72] Oh -[5724.72 --> 5726.72] Oh -[5726.72 --> 5728.72] Oh -[5728.72 --> 5730.72] Oh -[5740.72 --> 5742.72] Oh -[5742.72 --> 5744.72] Oh -[5744.72 --> 5746.72] Eh -[5746.72 --> 5748.72] Eh -[5748.72 --> 5750.72] Eh -[5750.72 --> 5752.72] Eh -[5752.72 --> 5754.72] Eh -[5754.72 --> 5755.72] Eh -[5756.00 --> 5756.72] Eh -[5756.72 --> 5758.72] Eh -[5762.72 --> 5764.72] Oh -[5764.72 --> 5767.00] Eh -[5767.00 --> 5768.94] Eh -[5770.14 --> 5770.56] Oh -[5770.56 --> 5800.54] Thank you. -[5800.56 --> 5830.54] Thank you. -[5830.56 --> 5860.54] Thank you. -[5860.56 --> 5890.54] Thank you. -[5890.56 --> 5920.54] Thank you. -[5920.56 --> 5950.54] Thank you. -[5950.56 --> 5980.54] Thank you. -[5980.56 --> 6010.54] Thank you. -[6010.56 --> 6040.54] Thank you. -[6040.56 --> 6070.54] Thank you. -[6070.56 --> 6100.54] Thank you. -[6100.56 --> 6130.54] Thank you. -[6130.56 --> 6160.54] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, March 9, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, March 9, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index eaf1c6b090ca39c775e86c2ee41d48bc2fa1ecc3..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, March 9, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,78 +0,0 @@ -• Praise and worship segment -• Introduction to the first Sunday of Lent and its significance -• Explanation of Lent's purpose and upcoming Good Friday and Easter celebrations -• Upcoming events, including a supper and Bible study groups -• Announcements, including lost and found items and Bible studies -• Announcement about needing drivers to pick up Mexico mission team from Seattle airport -• Reminder to fix eyes on Jesus during Lent season -• Call to rejoice in God's great love and mercy -• Invitation to worship together and receive the greeting of God -• Prayer for God's presence and power in their lives -• Praise and worship songs about Jesus' return, faithfulness, and justice -• Prayers and declarations of God's sovereignty and deliverance -• Acknowledgment of humanity's sinfulness and need for forgiveness -• Confession of specific sins such as lack of love, forgiveness, and obedience to God -• Petition for mercy and healing from God -• Invitation to confess sins to one another and pray for each other -• Confession of sins and shortcomings -• Repentance for wrongdoings, neglect, and indifference -• Request for restoration and forgiveness from God -• Praise and thanksgiving for God's mercy and love -• Announcement of a charity offering for Cascade Christian Counseling -• Family member introduction and guessing game -• The theme of "brothers and sisters in Christ" is introduced -• Transition into the book of Mark -• Blessing is given for the congregation -• Prayer is offered for the family of God, development of creation, and the church -• Specific prayers are mentioned for individuals in need of healing or support -• General prayer is offered for those with cancer, nation's leaders, and ongoing church ministries -• Reading and reflection on 1 Thessalonians 4 -• Understanding death and the hope of eternal life through Jesus Christ -• The concept of the "rapture" and its origins in Christian theology -• Critique of pre-millennial dispensational approach to theology -• Importance of good theology being practical and applicable in real-world situations -• Theology is about words and understanding related to God -• Good theology provides comfort, hope, and encouragement in times of hardship or death -• Knowing the truth about death can transform its meaning from tragedy to a divine comedy -• Death is defeated through Jesus Christ and has lost its sting -• A Christian's approach to death should be distinct from the culture around them -• Christians have hope in the face of death because they know that their daily living, even if it ends in death, can win respect and approval from God -• The resurrection of Jesus Christ is a guarantee of future resurrection for all who believe -• Those who die go to be with Jesus and will come back with Him at His return -• This new reality is real, visible, and glorious -• The rapture is not an escape from the world but rather being snatched from death into life -• The hope of Christians is forever, meeting the Lord in the air and being with Him forever -• The concept of meeting the Lord in the air at his return -• The meaning of "to meet" in ancient Greek as a formal reception for a dignitary, not just any kind of meeting -• Christians are like this delegation, ushering Jesus into the world at his return and restoring him to his rightful place on earth -• Death is not the end, but rather an intermediate step before the resurrection and return of Jesus Christ -• This understanding gives hope and changes how people live in the present, especially in the face of death -• Preparation for communion service -• Scripture readings and prayers -• Invitation to participate in communion -• Explanation of communion procedures -• Distribution of bread and juice -• Prayer partners available for those unable to come forward -• Conclusion of the service with final prayers and amens -• Praise and worship of Jesus Christ -• Declaration of victory over death and sin -• Prayer for the Holy Spirit to guide and teach -• Acknowledgement of God's power and majesty -• Expression of gratitude and adoration for salvation in Jesus' name -• Hope and confidence in Christ alone -• Reflection on life, death, and eternity -• Confession of faith and hope in Christ -• Praise and worship of Christ -• Hope and life in Christ, through death -• Confession and trust in Christ as Savior -• Grace and mercy of God -• Rest and peace in God's presence -• Empowerment by the Spirit to proclaim the gospel -• Going into life with God's presence and blessing -• Prayers and devotionals -• Journeying towards a promised land or destination -• Pressing on towards the message show -• Approaching home, with various mentions of being "almost home" -• Songs and music mentioned (e.g. "Grand and happy throw") -• Encouragement from darkness -• The concept of "going" or "being gone" \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, March 9, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, March 9, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f681208096b6f346da9389b6a2b9d338e9be8a70..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, March 9, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1036 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 62.00] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 92.00] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 122.00] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 152.00] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 188.78] Praise God, praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[190.00 --> 198.66] Praise Him, praise Him for the wonders of His love. -[198.66 --> 208.00] Praise God, praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[208.66 --> 218.18] Praise Him, praise Him, for the wonders of His love. -[218.18 --> 221.18] Praise God, He's amazing love. -[221.18 --> 226.46] For God so loved the world that He gave us. -[226.66 --> 228.18] It's one and all. -[228.18 --> 229.18] It's one and all. -[229.18 --> 231.18] It's one and all. -[231.18 --> 232.18] It's one and all. -[232.18 --> 233.18] It's one and all. -[233.18 --> 259.26] It's one and all. -[259.26 --> 262.24] Freedom for God so loved. -[262.74 --> 265.72] God so loved the world. -[269.48 --> 272.02] Bring all your failures. -[272.58 --> 274.32] Bring your addictions. -[274.32 --> 279.12] Come lay them down at the foot of the cross. -[279.46 --> 281.54] Jesus is waiting. -[282.18 --> 285.08] God so loved the world. -[289.26 --> 319.24] God so loved the world. -[319.26 --> 321.28] God so loved the world. -[324.28 --> 325.80] I am all a Christian. -[327.56 --> 329.18] I am a Christian. -[330.62 --> 334.40] Do you 바�os for them? -[334.40 --> 336.44] They are the sistema. -[336.52 --> 338.56] They are the same. -[339.14 --> 342.24] What the flow is that it is to add. -[343.28 --> 345.54] God so loved the veramente. -[345.54 --> 352.20] So I throw up my hands and praise you again and again. -[353.34 --> 362.94] Because all that I have is a hallelujah, hallelujah. -[362.94 --> 370.44] And I know it's not much, but I've nothing else fit for a king. -[370.44 --> 381.48] Except for a heart singing hallelujah, hallelujah. -[386.36 --> 389.58] I've got one response. -[391.74 --> 394.62] I've got just one move. -[394.62 --> 404.62] With my arms stretched wide, I will worship you. -[405.62 --> 411.62] So I throw up my hands and praise you again and again. -[412.62 --> 423.62] Because all that I have is a hallelujah, hallelujah. -[423.62 --> 430.62] And I know it's not much, but I've nothing else fit for a king. -[430.62 --> 441.62] Except for a heart singing hallelujah, hallelujah. -[441.62 --> 443.62] Hallelujah. -[443.62 --> 445.62] Hallelujah. -[445.62 --> 466.62] en- -[466.62 --> 473.00] Lift up your soul, cause you've got a light inside those lungs. -[473.50 --> 476.38] Get up and praise the Lord. -[479.92 --> 482.08] Oh, come on, my soul. -[482.52 --> 485.04] Oh, don't you get shy on me. -[485.18 --> 491.74] Lift up your soul, cause you've got a light inside those lungs. -[491.74 --> 495.42] Get up and praise the Lord. -[496.62 --> 500.64] Oh, come on, my soul. -[501.04 --> 503.52] Oh, don't you get shy on me. -[503.68 --> 508.62] Lift up your soul, cause you've got a light inside those lungs. -[510.06 --> 511.20] Good morning. -[512.76 --> 514.62] Welcome to worship. -[515.40 --> 518.34] A special welcome if you are a guest with us this morning. -[518.52 --> 521.16] My name is Chris, and I'm one of the pastors here. -[521.16 --> 526.98] And it's my privilege to lead in our shared worship this morning with these people you -[526.98 --> 530.40] see on stage and a couple others who will come up at different points. -[531.42 --> 535.72] Today is the first Sunday of Lent. -[536.26 --> 542.90] Lent is the season of preparation leading us to Good Friday where we remember and reflect -[542.90 --> 549.10] upon the death of Jesus in our place and where we anticipate Easter Sunday and his resurrection. -[549.68 --> 551.72] The season began with Ash Wednesday. -[551.98 --> 558.42] We had a little service here where we reflected on our sinfulness and our mortality, and we carry -[558.42 --> 563.50] that reflection and introspection forward in this season of Lent together. -[563.50 --> 568.80] to mark the remembering Jesus' death until he comes again. -[568.92 --> 573.06] We're also participating in the supper this morning, and so I encourage you already now, -[573.38 --> 577.64] begin preparing your heart and your mind to come to this table together later. -[578.10 --> 582.32] Before we begin our worship in earnest, there's a few announcements to make. -[582.82 --> 585.12] One of them, I hope, is just a reminder. -[586.00 --> 589.42] The other two are bits of information for you to follow up on. -[589.42 --> 593.36] The first bit of information to follow up on is in the foyer over there. -[593.46 --> 597.74] There's a table marked Lost and Found, and it's covered in things. -[598.62 --> 601.78] So we would love for it to be less covered by the end of today. -[602.60 --> 606.92] At some point in the next couple weeks, whatever is left on there is just going to get donated -[606.92 --> 609.96] to Mission Thrift Store or somewhere. -[610.48 --> 616.26] And so please have a look, see if your things are there, or probably see if your kids' things -[616.26 --> 620.00] are there, and maybe you can find something you've been missing for a little while. -[621.18 --> 631.14] The other note today, tonight at 7 p.m., is HCBC for the youth and the Heidelberg Catechism -[631.14 --> 634.88] Reading Group for the rest of us to participate in. -[634.96 --> 640.68] So we're going to gather here at 7 p.m. to continue our studies of the Heidelberg Catechism -[640.68 --> 641.90] and the Belgic Confession. -[641.90 --> 645.24] If you have any questions about that, you can talk to myself or Pastor Kevin. -[645.50 --> 647.36] He will address those for you. -[648.48 --> 652.44] Lastly, we've been making this announcement for a couple weeks now, but we still have to -[652.44 --> 653.24] keep making it. -[653.70 --> 659.94] On March 25th, the Mexico mission team needs some drivers to pick them up from Seattle -[659.94 --> 661.90] Airport and bring them home. -[662.70 --> 668.42] March 25th at 5 p.m. is when they need to be picked up at and brought home, and we need -[668.42 --> 670.70] rides for 18 more people yet. -[672.04 --> 676.30] 18's quite a lot, and so your kid might get left in Seattle unless we figure this out. -[677.04 --> 679.42] Now, maybe that's what you want, but that's not what we want. -[680.46 --> 685.72] And so if you are able to do that, please talk to, again, Pastor Kevin or Brandon, who's over -[685.72 --> 686.50] there in the corner. -[686.66 --> 689.10] He will happily arrange those things with you. -[689.10 --> 693.80] I think that's it for our announcements, and so I'm going to invite you as you are able -[693.80 --> 698.96] to stand, and we'll be ushered into the presence of God together this Lenten season. -[704.64 --> 708.14] As we come into the presence of God, receive His greeting. -[708.52 --> 712.18] Following the greeting of God, I invite you to turn to those around you and to welcome them -[712.18 --> 713.94] into our shared worship together. -[714.38 --> 715.48] Receive the greeting of God. -[715.48 --> 722.64] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, His Son -[722.64 --> 726.54] and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[727.54 --> 727.86] Amen. -[745.48 --> 763.82] People of God, as we enter this season of Lent, let us fix our eyes upon Jesus, the pioneer -[763.82 --> 765.22] and perfecter of faith. -[765.86 --> 770.70] For the joy set before Him, He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the -[770.70 --> 772.30] right hand of the throne of God. -[772.30 --> 776.18] Behold, Christ will come again and judge the living and the dead. -[776.64 --> 781.90] Let us then rejoice, because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made -[781.90 --> 785.16] us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions. -[785.88 --> 789.52] Give thanks to the Lord, who is good, whose mercy endures forever. -[789.52 --> 816.58] All the creation, all the fear, made straight a highway back for the Lord. -[816.58 --> 818.58] Jesus is coming soon. -[818.58 --> 822.58] Jesus is coming soon. -[822.58 --> 829.82] Come, every sinner, wake up the saint. -[830.26 --> 834.58] Let every nation shout your faith. -[834.58 --> 840.58] Jesus is coming soon. -[840.58 --> 842.58] Jesus is coming soon. -[842.58 --> 843.58] Jesus is coming soon. -[843.58 --> 848.58] Like a cry, waiting for a broom. -[848.58 --> 855.00] We'll be a church ready for every heart. -[855.00 --> 860.58] Longing for our King, we sing. -[860.58 --> 867.58] Give us so loud, Lord Jesus come. -[867.58 --> 874.58] Give us so loud, Lord Jesus come. -[874.58 --> 883.58] There will be justice, all will be you. -[883.58 --> 888.58] Your name forever, faithful and true. -[888.58 --> 889.58] Jesus is coming soon. -[889.58 --> 890.58] Jesus is coming soon. -[890.58 --> 895.58] Jesus is coming soon. -[895.58 --> 903.58] Like a cry, waiting for a broom. -[903.58 --> 909.58] We'll be a church ready for you every heart. -[909.58 --> 914.58] Longing for our King, we sing. -[914.58 --> 924.58] Give us so loud, Lord Jesus come. -[924.58 --> 930.58] Give us so loud, Lord Jesus come. -[930.58 --> 931.58] God, we wait for you. -[931.58 --> 933.58] Come, we wait. -[933.58 --> 936.58] You are coming soon. -[936.58 --> 938.58] God, we wait. -[938.58 --> 944.58] You are coming soon. -[944.58 --> 947.58] God, we wait. -[947.58 --> 950.58] We wait for you. -[950.58 --> 958.34] So we wait, we wait for you. -[960.82 --> 968.10] We wait, you're coming soon. -[970.60 --> 974.52] Like a rising dawn, -[974.52 --> 977.52] In the end, -[978.02 --> 980.98] Reckoning to every heart, -[980.98 --> 984.30] Calling for our King, -[984.68 --> 986.34] We sing. -[988.04 --> 992.00] Like a rising dawn, -[993.40 --> 995.24] In the end, -[995.74 --> 998.68] Reckoning to every heart, -[999.06 --> 1002.02] Calling for our King, -[1002.38 --> 1004.04] We sing. -[1004.52 --> 1007.14] He will so come, -[1007.70 --> 1011.48] For Jesus come. -[1013.48 --> 1016.06] He will so come, -[1016.06 --> 1020.62] For Jesus come. -[1022.32 --> 1025.48] He will so come, -[1025.78 --> 1030.06] For Jesus come. -[1030.06 --> 1031.18] He will so come, -[1031.18 --> 1031.68] For Jesus come. -[1031.68 --> 1035.18] He will so come, -[1035.18 --> 1035.68] For Jesus come. -[1035.68 --> 1038.14] For Jesus come. -[1038.14 --> 1043.22] He is yang to come, -[1043.22 --> 1047.42] For Jesus come. -[1047.42 --> 1048.14] And he must go. -[1048.14 --> 1048.44] He is to come. -[1049.16 --> 1050.06] He will so come. -[1050.06 --> 1052.28] He will so come. -[1052.98 --> 1055.22] And have a chance to center this evening. -[1055.22 --> 1056.72] The Father himself may shall come, -[1056.72 --> 1065.62] To the riders we pray upon the Lord, we obey upon the Lord, we obey upon the Lord, Lord God. -[1065.62 --> 1077.62] We pray forever, come on, our strong deliverer. -[1077.62 --> 1093.20] You are the everlasting God, the everlasting God, to the faith you won't go away. -[1093.20 --> 1106.06] You're the defender of the will, you've conquered those who live, you've lifted us up on the way. -[1106.06 --> 1109.44] You're the everlasting God. -[1117.44 --> 1123.44] We pray forever, come on, our strong deliverer. -[1123.44 --> 1128.44] We pray forever, come on, our strong deliverer. -[1128.44 --> 1134.44] We pray forever, come on, our strong deliverer. -[1134.44 --> 1145.82] We pray forever, come on, our strong deliverer. -[1145.82 --> 1160.20] You are the everlasting God, the everlasting God, to do my things you won't go away. -[1160.20 --> 1161.20] We pray forever, come on, our strong deliverer. -[1161.20 --> 1173.58] You're the defender of the will, you've conquered those who live, you've lifted us up on the way. -[1173.58 --> 1174.58] Be forever, come on, our strong deliverer. -[1174.58 --> 1185.20] You're the everlasting God, the everlasting God. -[1185.26 --> 1191.64] You do not wait to walk, nor weary. -[1191.64 --> 1221.62] you're the defender of the -[1221.64 --> 1223.64] way upon the moon -[1223.64 --> 1237.32] Our God reigns forever. He is our hope, -[1237.58 --> 1239.52] our strong deliverer. May he -[1239.52 --> 1241.64] strengthen us to name that which -[1241.64 --> 1242.84] we need deliverance from. -[1243.42 --> 1245.28] For if we claim to be without sin, -[1245.58 --> 1247.48] we deceive ourselves, and the truth -[1247.48 --> 1249.62] is not in us. But if we confess -[1249.62 --> 1251.34] our sins, he is faithful -[1251.34 --> 1253.46] and just, and will forgive us our -[1253.46 --> 1255.62] sins and purify us from all -[1255.62 --> 1256.50] unrighteousness. -[1256.50 --> 1260.14] O'er our sea? -[1260.14 --> 1287.14] ixoam file -[1290.14 --> 1293.80] Hear my desperation -[1293.80 --> 1299.18] For so long I've planned and prayed -[1299.18 --> 1303.00] God, don't you, I rest you -[1303.00 --> 1307.52] Even so, the Lord remains -[1307.52 --> 1311.38] So my heart will praise you -[1311.38 --> 1318.84] Songs within the trouble so -[1318.84 --> 1323.40] Questions without answers -[1323.40 --> 1327.56] Unlike me, these heroes roll -[1327.56 --> 1331.20] God, we know our shelter -[1331.20 --> 1335.74] Why are you blessed on my soul? -[1335.74 --> 1339.90] I'll be able to say to -[1339.90 --> 1344.56] The Christ of all the hope -[1344.56 --> 1348.54] Songs in such a great feeling -[1348.54 --> 1356.72] Oh my soul, put your hope in God -[1356.72 --> 1363.36] My help, my love, I will praise you -[1363.36 --> 1369.88] Sing, oh sing, through the raging storm -[1369.88 --> 1374.54] You're still my God, my salvation -[1374.54 --> 1392.60] Should my life be torn from me -[1392.60 --> 1396.20] Every worldly pleasure -[1396.20 --> 1400.86] When all I possess is free -[1400.86 --> 1404.64] God, be then my treasure -[1404.64 --> 1409.58] Be my vision in the night -[1409.58 --> 1412.94] Be my hope and refuge -[1412.94 --> 1417.68] Till my faith is turned to sight -[1417.68 --> 1421.36] Lord, my heart will praise you -[1421.36 --> 1429.02] Oh my soul, put your hope in God -[1429.02 --> 1433.68] My help, my God, my help, my God -[1433.68 --> 1435.68] My help, my God, my salvation -[1435.68 --> 1438.02] Sing, oh sing, through the raging storm -[1438.02 --> 1442.02] Sing, oh sing, through the raging storm -[1442.02 --> 1447.68] You're still my God, my salvation -[1447.68 --> 1448.68] Oh my God, my salvation -[1448.68 --> 1453.34] Oh my soul, put your hope in God -[1453.34 --> 1455.34] Oh my soul, put your hope in God -[1455.34 --> 1458.34] My help, my God, my help, my God -[1458.34 --> 1461.34] I will praise you -[1461.34 --> 1468.34] Sing, oh sing, through the raging storm -[1468.34 --> 1473.00] You're still my God -[1473.00 --> 1476.00] You're still my God, my salvation -[1476.00 --> 1498.48] Brothers and sisters in Christ -[1498.48 --> 1500.98] Let us confess our sins to each other -[1500.98 --> 1502.42] And pray for one another -[1502.42 --> 1504.24] So that we may be healed -[1504.24 --> 1506.98] For the prayer of a righteous person -[1506.98 --> 1508.74] Is powerful and effective -[1508.74 --> 1512.60] Holy and merciful God -[1512.60 --> 1515.72] We confess to you and to my love -[1515.72 --> 1518.76] And to the whole communion of saints -[1518.76 --> 1520.34] In heaven and of earth -[1520.34 --> 1523.40] That we have sinned by our own fault -[1523.40 --> 1525.88] In thought, word, and deed -[1525.88 --> 1527.90] That what we have done -[1527.90 --> 1530.32] And that I will be left undone -[1530.32 --> 1532.68] We have not loved you -[1532.68 --> 1534.86] With our whole heart and mind and strength -[1534.86 --> 1537.26] We have not loved our neighbors as ourselves -[1537.26 --> 1539.18] We have not forgiven others -[1539.18 --> 1540.62] As we have been forgiven -[1540.62 --> 1544.10] Have mercy on us, O God -[1544.10 --> 1548.44] We have not listened to your call to serve as Christ served us -[1548.44 --> 1550.98] We have not been true to the mind of Christ -[1550.98 --> 1553.24] We have grieved your Holy Spirit -[1553.24 --> 1556.36] Have mercy on us, O God -[1556.36 --> 1559.10] We confess to you, O God -[1559.10 --> 1559.22] We confess to you, O God -[1559.22 --> 1561.16] All our past unfaithfulness -[1561.16 --> 1565.32] Pride, hypocrisy, and impatience in our lives -[1565.32 --> 1568.94] We confess to you, O God -[1568.94 --> 1571.96] Our self-indulgent appetites and ways -[1571.96 --> 1573.82] And our expectation of other people -[1573.82 --> 1577.40] We confess to you, O God -[1577.40 --> 1580.70] Our anger and our own frustration -[1580.70 --> 1584.10] And our envy of those more fortunate than ourselves -[1584.10 --> 1587.18] We confess to you, O God -[1587.18 --> 1590.96] Our intemperate love of worldly goods and comforts -[1590.96 --> 1593.26] And our dishonesty in daily life and work -[1593.26 --> 1596.54] We confess to you, O God -[1596.54 --> 1599.14] Our negligence in prayer and worship -[1599.14 --> 1602.18] And our failure to commend the faith that is in us -[1602.18 --> 1605.24] We confess to you, O God -[1605.24 --> 1608.24] Accept our repentance, O God -[1608.24 --> 1610.06] For the wrongs we have done -[1610.06 --> 1612.90] For our neglect of human need and suffering -[1612.90 --> 1615.66] And our indifference to injustice and cruelty -[1615.66 --> 1619.46] Accept our repentance, O God -[1619.46 --> 1621.60] For all false judgments -[1621.60 --> 1624.22] For uncharitable thoughts towards our neighbors -[1624.22 --> 1628.26] And for our prejudice and contempt towards those who differ from us -[1628.26 --> 1631.78] Accept our repentance, O God -[1631.78 --> 1634.00] For not trusting in you -[1634.00 --> 1637.22] For turning to other people and things for our hope -[1637.22 --> 1638.56] And for living in fear -[1638.56 --> 1641.48] Blind and deaf to the truth of your word -[1641.48 --> 1644.48] And the call to live faithful lives to your glory -[1644.48 --> 1647.84] Accept our repentance, O God -[1647.84 --> 1649.98] Restore us, O God -[1649.98 --> 1652.68] And let your anger depart from us -[1652.68 --> 1654.68] Favorably hear us, O God -[1654.68 --> 1656.36] For your mercy is great -[1656.36 --> 1657.22] Amen -[1657.22 --> 1661.22] Please rise as we respond -[1661.22 --> 1662.16] To the song -[1662.16 --> 1671.54] Praise the Lord -[1671.54 --> 1675.10] His mercy is full -[1675.10 --> 1679.54] Praise the Lord -[1679.54 --> 1680.38] His mercy is full -[1680.38 --> 1683.54] Praise the Lord -[1683.54 --> 1685.16] His mercy is full -[1685.16 --> 1686.00] His mercy is full -[1686.00 --> 1688.14] His mercy is full -[1688.14 --> 1691.96] jalap -[1691.96 --> 1694.60] Stronger the darkness -[1694.60 --> 1695.72] Due and behold -[1695.72 --> 1698.28] Our sins -[1698.28 --> 1699.28] They are made -[1699.28 --> 1700.10] His mercy is full -[1700.10 --> 1702.08] His mercy is full -[1702.08 --> 1704.08] My mercy is full -[1704.08 --> 1715.78] What love could remember no wrongs we have done -[1715.78 --> 1720.78] Conditioned all knowing he cast on their sons -[1720.78 --> 1725.92] Thrown into a sea without bottom or shore -[1725.92 --> 1732.08] Our sins they are many, his mercy is full -[1732.08 --> 1745.52] What patience would wait as we constantly roam -[1745.52 --> 1750.48] What love is so tender, is calling us whole -[1750.48 --> 1756.18] He welcomes the weakest, the vilest, the poor -[1756.18 --> 1761.68] Our sins they are many, his mercy is full -[1761.68 --> 1769.76] Praise the Lord, his mercy is full -[1769.76 --> 1777.38] Stronger and darker, still and poor -[1777.38 --> 1782.56] Our sins they are many, his mercy is full -[1782.56 --> 1796.00] What riches of kindness he lavished on us -[1796.00 --> 1801.10] His blood was the payment, his blood was the cost -[1801.10 --> 1807.18] We soon need the debt we could never afford -[1807.18 --> 1812.50] Our sins they are many, his mercy is full -[1812.50 --> 1820.32] Praise the Lord, his mercy is full -[1820.32 --> 1828.40] Stronger and darker, still and poor -[1828.40 --> 1832.64] Our sins they are many, his mercy is full -[1832.64 --> 1841.40] Praise the Lord, his mercy is full -[1841.40 --> 1847.48] Stronger and darker, still and poor -[1847.48 --> 1851.48] Our sins they are many, his mercy is full -[1851.48 --> 1854.52] Our sins they are many, his mercy is full -[1854.52 --> 1862.60] Our grace is full -[1862.60 --> 1883.68] Good morning, my name is Yap, I'm a deacon here at Langley Emanuel -[1883.68 --> 1887.52] This morning's offering is for Cascade Christian Counseling -[1887.52 --> 1894.46] Cascade Christian Counseling is a non-profit organization that has been in operation for over 40 years -[1894.46 --> 1899.70] With a mission to provide Christian counseling and consulting services to the whole community -[1899.70 --> 1906.44] In order to do that they raise funds in order to provide lower session fees to those who cannot afford to get the help they need -[1906.44 --> 1915.78] Please give as you're able to and if you want to give to the general budget or any other mission or ministry you can use the envelopes in your seats in front of you -[1915.78 --> 1917.06] Thank you -[1936.44 --> 1949.12] Thank you -[1949.12 --> 1979.10] Thank you. -[1979.12 --> 2009.10] Thank you. -[2009.12 --> 2039.10] Thank you. -[2039.12 --> 2069.10] Thank you. -[2069.12 --> 2071.12] Thank you. -[2100.08 --> 2101.12] Thank you. -[2101.54 --> 2102.92] We're not quite twins. -[2103.94 --> 2104.68] Any guesses? -[2104.82 --> 2105.94] Who is one of my family members? -[2108.04 --> 2108.38] Ooh. -[2109.68 --> 2111.10] Did we stump you guys? -[2111.18 --> 2111.84] What do you think, Haley? -[2111.84 --> 2115.22] You think Matthias is one of my family members? -[2115.38 --> 2116.48] Oh, he could be. -[2116.84 --> 2117.02] Yeah? -[2117.56 --> 2119.12] Do you think Jared and I are brothers, maybe? -[2119.80 --> 2121.10] We look a little bit similar. -[2122.44 --> 2124.42] Well, yeah. -[2126.10 --> 2128.30] That's perhaps more of a compliment to myself. -[2129.28 --> 2129.72] No? -[2129.90 --> 2131.08] Are we brothers, do you think? -[2131.96 --> 2133.46] But me and Matthias maybe are brothers? -[2134.60 --> 2136.88] Maybe Mr. Kevin and I are brothers? -[2137.78 --> 2138.08] No? -[2138.08 --> 2138.20] No. -[2138.48 --> 2139.22] Oh, there it's like, oh. -[2139.22 --> 2142.00] Maybe Miss Nikki is my sister? -[2142.56 --> 2143.00] No? -[2143.94 --> 2144.64] Oh, boy. -[2144.72 --> 2148.04] We're moving into the book of Mark, and there's a big theme in Mark. -[2148.10 --> 2148.60] What do you think? -[2149.96 --> 2150.36] Oh. -[2151.56 --> 2152.68] Yes, there we go. -[2152.76 --> 2154.06] I knew someone would nail it. -[2154.32 --> 2156.78] We're all brothers and sisters in Christ. -[2157.12 --> 2159.08] Now, that wasn't meant to be a trick question, -[2159.48 --> 2164.86] but it is the big theme that we're going to talk about now that we move into the book of Mark. -[2164.86 --> 2165.42] Okay? -[2165.86 --> 2169.06] So, thank you very much, helpers, for the illustration. -[2170.08 --> 2170.44] All right. -[2170.60 --> 2175.52] Why don't we stand and we'll bless the congregation as they stay and hear our message here, -[2175.58 --> 2180.08] and we're going to hear more about the family of God in children's worship time. -[2180.88 --> 2181.32] Ready? -[2181.40 --> 2182.20] Let's give the blessing. -[2183.22 --> 2185.04] The Lord be with you. -[2185.30 --> 2186.86] And also with you. -[2187.22 --> 2187.94] Come and eat. -[2187.94 --> 2188.06] Come and eat. -[2199.22 --> 2203.40] Lord, our Lord, your glorious name. -[2203.40 --> 2203.84] Amen. -[2207.84 --> 2221.04] amientoelduff -[2221.04 --> 2232.04] Lord, our Lord, your glorious name in all your wondrous works proclaim. -[2233.54 --> 2238.90] In the heavens with the radiant signs, evermore your glory shines. -[2239.98 --> 2241.86] How great is your name. -[2243.48 --> 2247.94] Lord, our Lord, in all the earth, how great is your name. -[2247.94 --> 2255.46] Yours is the name of matchless worth, excellent in all the earth. -[2256.52 --> 2258.66] How great is your name. -[2261.00 --> 2265.56] We gather in your name this morning to bring you our prayers, -[2266.16 --> 2269.50] to sing your praises and to hear and study your word. -[2270.96 --> 2276.20] Thank you for this day, for bringing us all here. -[2276.20 --> 2280.76] Your people into a preview of your kingdom, -[2281.62 --> 2284.68] for giving us this foretaste of glory divine. -[2286.22 --> 2290.60] We know we cannot truly understand the nature of your kingdom, -[2291.28 --> 2297.54] but we do know that it is wonderful and glorious beyond all belief. -[2297.54 --> 2306.02] As we wait, we are mindful at this time of our task here on earth. -[2306.02 --> 2309.78] You did not create us to be idle. -[2311.16 --> 2314.64] You gave us dominion and responsibility over creation, -[2314.64 --> 2320.78] and we ask that you give us what we need for this task of developing and caring for creation. -[2320.78 --> 2334.96] Fill our hearts with your spirit so that we do our daily work and help us to keep that in mind in all that we do is for you, Lord. -[2336.06 --> 2339.92] Raise up the church to do deeds of faith and generosity. -[2339.92 --> 2347.54] We pray for our nation and its leaders that they would follow after justice and righteousness. -[2348.92 --> 2350.82] We pray for your church. -[2352.32 --> 2358.92] Grant our leaders your wisdom and discernment, strength for the day and faith in troubled times. -[2358.92 --> 2367.78] We pray for the ongoing ministries here at Emmanuel that they may help us to grow in faith and love. -[2369.10 --> 2376.64] We pray that we would all grow into the grace and knowledge of Jesus, doing good works to his glory. -[2376.64 --> 2386.30] We thank you that Michaela Chamberlain and Kate and Abby recently got engaged. -[2386.82 --> 2390.06] We pray that you will continue to bless their relationship. -[2392.44 --> 2397.48] We give thanks that Anne-Marie Van Mayen's heart surgery went well, -[2397.98 --> 2400.96] and we ask that you will give her a smooth recovery. -[2400.96 --> 2409.38] We pray for Lena that she will regain her physical strength so that she can go home. -[2411.14 --> 2415.22] We pray for your healing and sustaining peace for John Finbergite. -[2417.56 --> 2422.32] We pray for Jerry Jansen's daughter and Anikala's sister, Tessa. -[2423.88 --> 2427.78] We ask for Tessa to be given strength as she undergoes chemotherapy. -[2430.96 --> 2438.56] We ask also that you pray for Elise Wagener's dad, Doug Kendon, and Tessa Tessemacher. -[2440.30 --> 2443.70] Amanda, Hohuwoning's sister, and Klaus Tessemacher's daughter. -[2444.46 --> 2451.22] We ask for you to give effective treatment and courage to face this journey. -[2452.22 --> 2457.22] And we pray for the families involved as they need strength to walk beside their loved ones. -[2457.22 --> 2465.68] Lord, we hear of many people with cancer, and we ask for your healing and strength. -[2469.64 --> 2474.16] Lord, as we hear your will for us this morning through the word preached by Pastor Chris, -[2475.16 --> 2477.06] bind us together in Christ. -[2478.22 --> 2480.24] Keep us focused on our purpose. -[2481.70 --> 2483.30] Fill us with the Holy Spirit. -[2483.30 --> 2492.16] We pray that we will grow in love and truth, righteousness and peace, hope and faith. -[2493.64 --> 2497.70] Mature us in Jesus that we may become more and more like him. -[2499.36 --> 2505.16] Fulfill your will and purposes among us, and bring glory to your holy name. -[2506.26 --> 2510.46] All these things we pray in your holy name. -[2511.24 --> 2511.50] Amen. -[2513.30 --> 2542.36] Here at Emmanuel, we are reading together through the books of 1 and 2 Thessalonians. -[2542.36 --> 2546.52] Paul's letter written to the church of Thessalonica. -[2547.66 --> 2552.06] This morning, we come to chapter 4, verse 13 to 18. -[2552.22 --> 2554.86] We're going to read that together beforehand, -[2555.32 --> 2558.58] and then we'll spend some time reflecting on that. -[2558.58 --> 2558.64] Amen. -[2558.64 --> 2558.70] Amen. -[2558.70 --> 2558.78] Amen. -[2558.78 --> 2559.14] Amen. -[2559.14 --> 2559.20] Amen. -[2559.20 --> 2559.58] Amen. -[2559.58 --> 2560.70] Amen. -[2560.70 --> 2561.14] Amen. -[2561.14 --> 2561.64] Amen. -[2561.64 --> 2561.70] Amen. -[2561.70 --> 2562.14] Amen. -[2562.14 --> 2562.70] Amen. -[2562.70 --> 2562.80] Amen. -[2562.80 --> 2563.58] Amen. -[2563.58 --> 2564.20] Amen. -[2564.20 --> 2564.70] Amen. -[2564.70 --> 2564.80] Amen. -[2564.80 --> 2565.70] Amen. -[2565.70 --> 2566.70] Amen. -[2566.70 --> 2566.80] Amen. -[2566.80 --> 2567.80] Amen. -[2567.80 --> 2568.80] Amen. -[2568.80 --> 2568.86] Amen. -[2568.86 --> 2569.80] Amen. -[2569.80 --> 2570.80] Amen. -[2570.80 --> 2571.80] Amen. -[2571.80 --> 2572.36] Amen. -[2572.80 --> 2577.54] Amen. -[2577.54 --> 2577.62] Amen. -[2582.02 --> 2591.82] Amen. -[2591.82 --> 2592.02] Amen. -[2592.02 --> 2592.80] Amen. -[2592.80 --> 2593.68] Amen. -[2593.68 --> 2602.12] understand and approach even the tragedy and hardship of death. For that, we look here in -[2602.12 --> 2608.70] 1 Thessalonians 4. I'm going to start reading in chapter, or in verse 13, and we'll read through to -[2608.70 --> 2612.32] the end of verse 18, which is the end of this chapter. -[2614.62 --> 2621.58] Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, -[2621.58 --> 2629.24] so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died -[2629.24 --> 2637.70] and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in -[2637.70 --> 2645.12] him. According to the Lord's word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the -[2645.12 --> 2652.16] coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will -[2652.16 --> 2657.50] come down from heaven with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call -[2657.50 --> 2665.80] of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left -[2665.80 --> 2670.82] will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, -[2670.82 --> 2680.26] and so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore, encourage one another with these words. -[2680.92 --> 2682.36] This is the word of the Lord. -[2686.46 --> 2696.56] I've said before to you that good theology, properly taught, properly applied, is practical -[2696.56 --> 2710.04] theology. Good theology is practical theology. In the face of hardship and suffering, in the face of -[2710.04 --> 2720.94] challenge and trial, understanding a word about God can bring encouragement and hope. This text, -[2720.94 --> 2729.24] like the story referenced in the comic over my shoulder, this text is an excellent example of what I mean. -[2730.74 --> 2737.54] To whet your appetite, to see where we're going, notice this. We read in verse 17 together, -[2738.34 --> 2745.14] after that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds -[2745.14 --> 2755.62] to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will be with the Lord forever. That word, caught up in Greek, -[2756.16 --> 2766.16] is a form of harpazo, which when translated from Greek into Latin in the fourth century by Jerome, -[2766.72 --> 2774.42] becomes a form of the word rapio, which is where we get the English word rapture. -[2775.14 --> 2781.68] From. And so if you've been around Christian circles in the 20th or 21st century for any amount -[2781.68 --> 2788.00] of time, you've probably heard the word rapture. You've probably heard people talk about a secret -[2788.00 --> 2793.10] rapture wherein the bodies of all who believe will vanish and their clothes will be left in a nice -[2793.10 --> 2801.04] folded pile on their airplane seat as everyone around them screams. This idea of a secret rapture -[2801.04 --> 2810.46] was first taught by a man named John Nelson Darby in the 19th century, and it's part of what many have -[2810.46 --> 2816.56] come to call a pre-millennial dispensational approach to theology, where Jesus will come in secret, -[2817.02 --> 2824.04] where he will collect all Christians in order to escape a period of tribulation that will take place -[2824.04 --> 2833.26] before the full, visible, and final return of Christ. The question of theology asks, is that true? -[2834.26 --> 2841.64] Is that what this text is actually teaching? Is that good theology? And does it help us? -[2841.64 --> 2849.68] Because remember, good theology is practical theology. What I want to suggest this morning, -[2850.40 --> 2857.94] and the sort of banner under which we will labor together in this text, is that what we hear here -[2857.94 --> 2869.44] is a real hope because of a real end, a real telos, a purpose for the world. And to get to that, to see -[2869.44 --> 2877.68] this real hope because of a real end for our real world, I want to start by taking the beginning and -[2877.68 --> 2884.76] the end of this text and looking at them together. So verse 13 and verse 18. At the beginning, Paul writes, -[2884.76 --> 2892.44] brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed. Now what he literally says there in -[2892.44 --> 2898.84] Greek in the original language is, we do not want you not to know. And the editors have made it -[2898.84 --> 2905.00] uninformed because not want you not to know is a confusing sentence structure in English. It's hard -[2905.00 --> 2911.56] to follow along. But effectively, what Paul is saying is, hey, there's something we really want you to -[2911.56 --> 2918.54] know. We wish you would understand this. Think about this with me for a minute. We don't want you -[2918.54 --> 2925.96] not to know. He's saying, don't miss this truth. Paul wants his readers and he wants us to know -[2925.96 --> 2932.32] something, to be aware of some truth, to have an idea or a thought or a formulation in our head, -[2932.32 --> 2942.62] to have words at the ready. To be sure, what he wants us to know is something about God, words about God. -[2943.36 --> 2954.40] In its simplest definition, that's what theology is, words about God. Theology is to have and speak -[2954.40 --> 2966.14] and know words about God. And Paul here wants us to have a word about God. We need to know. He says, -[2966.26 --> 2973.34] I do not want you not to know. I do not want you to be uninformed. Know these things, have words about -[2973.34 --> 2983.32] these things, have good theology. And then at the end of our text, verse 18, he says, therefore, -[2983.76 --> 2990.84] encourage one another with these words. Right? There are things I want you to know, things I want -[2990.84 --> 2998.64] you to study and to trust and believe. And when you know them, when you study them, when you trust them, -[2998.64 --> 3007.82] you will be encouraged. Good theology is practical. Good theology is for encouragement. And in particular, -[3008.10 --> 3017.10] in this moment, Paul wants his readers to be comforted in the face of a great trial and hardship -[3017.10 --> 3026.56] we call death. We do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death. So you do not grieve -[3026.56 --> 3034.94] like the rest of mankind who have no hope. Good theology is hopeful. Good theology is practical. -[3035.40 --> 3043.92] Good theology is encouraging. And when it comes to death, good theology reframes the whole thing for us. -[3045.60 --> 3049.84] Kevin Van Hooser is a modern theologian. He says, -[3049.84 --> 3057.62] knowing the ending turns what might be otherwise a tragedy into a divine comedy. -[3059.08 --> 3064.94] And that doesn't mean it's a joke. It means that at the end, all things are put right. -[3067.76 --> 3076.34] So the question that we face this morning isn't, will I die? The question isn't, when will I die? -[3076.34 --> 3084.86] The question isn't even, what will cause my death? Instead, the question is, how will I die? How will I -[3084.86 --> 3091.86] approach death? How will I think about death? How will I face death? How will I have hope? How will I -[3091.86 --> 3101.50] overcome? How will I be encouraged? How will I have courage? Or will I be afraid? Will I have peace in the -[3101.50 --> 3109.56] face? Or will I be cast about? When I die? Or when someone I love dies? How will I be? -[3111.56 --> 3118.40] Part of being a disciple, as we enter this season of Lent reflecting on death and our mortality, -[3118.98 --> 3125.18] part of being a disciple of Jesus is having a different approach to death, even in this life -[3125.18 --> 3132.22] and in this world. And what is the practical impact that's flowing from the truth that in Jesus, -[3132.48 --> 3140.36] death is defeated and has lost its sting? This is a uniquely Christian new reality. -[3141.56 --> 3149.72] Do not grieve, we read, like the rest of mankind who have no hope. And that actually is an idea, -[3149.72 --> 3155.46] right? Grieving that comparison to the rest of mankind. It's an idea that ties back to the -[3155.46 --> 3162.72] preceding section. We looked at it before, last time, in verse 11 and 12, we read, -[3163.24 --> 3169.64] make it your ambition to lead a quiet life. You should mind your own business and work with your -[3169.64 --> 3177.68] hands just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders. If the rest of -[3177.68 --> 3184.90] mankind and the respect of outsiders, and in both cases, we are encouraged to live and to conduct -[3184.90 --> 3192.28] ourselves in life in a way that is genuinely Christian, genuinely distinct from the culture -[3192.28 --> 3198.08] around us, a way that is genuinely consistent with the message of the gospel and the teachings -[3198.08 --> 3205.86] of God in Jesus Christ. And as Christians then, what can we know about God in the face of death, -[3205.86 --> 3213.16] and how can that bring us comfort? As Christians, what can we know about God in the face of God in -[3213.16 --> 3220.22] death, in the face of death, that our daily living, and even if we face it ourselves, that even our death -[3220.22 --> 3231.24] may in fact win the respect of outsiders. Death is one thing that unites us all. And so, -[3231.24 --> 3239.44] a word about God, a theology of death is eminently practical and useful. -[3243.04 --> 3253.06] In the ancient world, and for many today, death is simply an end. And so, for these Christians -[3253.06 --> 3261.16] in Thessalonica, many of whom are new to faith, these new Christians, these people who've -[3261.16 --> 3268.58] just been converted to Christianity are still learning how to reframe their experience of life -[3268.58 --> 3274.72] by the teachings of the gospel and by the word, right? And so, the ideas that they have about death -[3274.72 --> 3282.00] are going to have some of the vestiges of the culture's teaching within it. And in the culture of -[3282.00 --> 3290.30] the day, death is generally associated with a lack of hope. There are some examples of great heroes -[3290.30 --> 3296.98] who are taken up into Elysium and who experience peace and celebration. But for the most people, -[3297.08 --> 3304.04] for the average person in the ancient world, death is just an end. It is formless and void. It is lonely -[3304.04 --> 3313.74] wandering. Catalyst, who's a contemporary of Paul, he writes in one of his poems, -[3313.74 --> 3323.14] the sun can set and rise again, but once our brief light sets, there is one unending night to be slept -[3323.14 --> 3333.74] through. Similarly, Theocritus, who is a Greek philosopher, he writes, hopes are for the living, -[3333.74 --> 3345.10] the dead are without hope. And these are the kinds of ideas that surround death for the people of -[3345.10 --> 3353.14] Thessalonica. These new Christians have to wonder what changes. What will happen to me at death? Do I -[3353.14 --> 3358.82] have hope? And if I die before Jesus returns, will I miss out on what's going to happen? What happens if I -[3358.82 --> 3366.68] die before He returns? The church at Thessalonica is relearning a whole new theology of death because of -[3366.68 --> 3375.14] their faith, and Pastor Paul is teaching good theology to them. And so what I want to do for the time -[3375.14 --> 3387.08] that remains to us this morning is look at six points of practical application as we face death -[3387.08 --> 3396.20] from this text. First of all, point number one, death isn't the end, it is a transition. -[3397.72 --> 3404.54] This is verse 14, if you will follow along with me. Verse 14, for we believe that Jesus died and rose -[3404.54 --> 3414.36] again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in Him. -[3414.36 --> 3423.50] Jesus' resurrection is offered as a guarantee of a future resurrection for all who will believe. -[3424.56 --> 3434.30] Because Jesus rose, God will raise you up if you died in Christ. This is how the gospel becomes -[3434.30 --> 3440.90] good news for you. Jesus lived the life I should have lived and died the death that I deserved, -[3440.90 --> 3449.02] and on the third day He rose again from the dead. He died in order to defeat death. And if you are united -[3449.02 --> 3454.72] to Him in His death, you will be united to Him in a resurrection like His. This is the promise of God -[3454.72 --> 3463.52] and of the gospel. Death isn't the end, it's a transition. And what we see is that if death isn't the end, -[3463.52 --> 3473.12] there must be a new one. That new end is the resurrection of all, the return and the reign of Jesus Christ. -[3473.70 --> 3480.60] That's the end of history. That's the goal of it all. The resurrection of all, the return and the reign -[3480.60 --> 3490.94] of Jesus. Death isn't the end. Number two, what do we see? We see that those who die go to be with -[3490.94 --> 3499.96] Jesus. Again in verse 14, we read, God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in Him. -[3501.40 --> 3509.20] Here we read that those who have died are with Jesus and they will come with Him at His return, -[3509.36 --> 3517.04] reunited with resurrected bodies. The scriptures tell us that to die is gain, for if I die, I go to be with -[3517.04 --> 3523.54] Christ. Right? The scriptures tell us that if we die and are away from the body, we are at home in the -[3523.54 --> 3530.90] Lord. Jesus Himself, to the thief on the cross, when death was imminent for both of them, says, -[3531.28 --> 3540.68] today you will be with me in paradise. Those who die go to be with Jesus. -[3540.68 --> 3547.74] The third thing that we see here as we face death is that this new reality is real. -[3548.78 --> 3554.32] We know it's real because it's given to us for all to see. Did you see that in verse 16? -[3555.10 --> 3556.34] In verse 16, we read, -[3556.94 --> 3561.08] For the Lord Himself will come down from heaven with a loud command and with the voice of the -[3561.08 --> 3566.50] archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. -[3566.50 --> 3572.90] Now, I don't know about you, but a loud command, a voice from the archangel and the trumpet call of -[3572.90 --> 3580.18] God sure doesn't sound like a quiet secret coming to steal people away. Right? This is a visible, -[3580.76 --> 3587.60] public, glorious return for all to see. And the rest of the Bible tells this same story. -[3588.40 --> 3595.18] In Matthew 24, 27 to 21, we read that the Son of Man and His return will be visible like -[3595.18 --> 3601.90] lightning in the east is visible in the west. We read that it will come with great power and glory. -[3601.90 --> 3609.62] And again, we read that angels will trumpet it. In Revelation 1, 7, it says that He is coming with -[3609.62 --> 3617.64] the clouds and every eye will see Him. Which makes sense because at the ascension of Jesus, -[3618.12 --> 3623.32] the angels told the disciples who were staring up into the clouds looking, the angels said, -[3623.32 --> 3630.46] this same Jesus who has been taken from you into heaven will come back in the same way that you -[3630.46 --> 3643.74] have seen Him go into heaven, riding on the clouds. Right? This is real and it's for all to see. -[3643.74 --> 3655.80] Number four, this real hope isn't escaping this world set for destruction, but the real hope is -[3655.80 --> 3667.42] actually rooted in the ushering in of the defeat of death by death bringing new life. Verse 17 says, -[3667.42 --> 3675.40] after that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to -[3675.40 --> 3684.16] meet the Lord in the air and so we will be with the Lord forever. Now this is where that word, -[3684.86 --> 3694.70] harpazo, becomes rapio, become rapture. This is where that happens. And is our hope really a rapture, -[3694.70 --> 3701.26] an escape? An escape? Or is Paul doing something different here? Now this is going to take a little -[3701.26 --> 3706.70] bit of brain work, so roll up your sleeves and dig in with me. This is where biblical theology becomes -[3706.70 --> 3718.50] helpful to us. The Greek verb harpazo, caught up, is used by many writers to refer to people being caught -[3718.50 --> 3727.92] up or snatched away from life to death. And so there's a first century Greek philosopher and historian -[3727.92 --> 3735.60] named Plutarch. He uses it to refer to those who die an early death such that they are snatched away -[3735.60 --> 3742.22] from the advantages of life such as marriage, education, manhood, citizenship, and public office. -[3742.22 --> 3751.04] At the time, there are funeral inscriptions written that we have and have collected saying that fate -[3751.04 --> 3760.08] has snatched away the living to the place of Hades. Or we also have writings from Lucian, who's a second -[3760.08 --> 3770.42] century AD Roman satirist and rhetorician, and he writes a speech of a grieving father who cries out at the -[3770.42 --> 3780.06] death of his son. And he says, dearest child, you are gone from me dead, snatched away, harpazo, before your time. -[3781.62 --> 3788.22] And in all of these cases, the way this word is normally used, death is snatching people away from life. -[3789.44 --> 3797.04] And so I tend to agree with Bible scholar Jeff Wyma, who concludes that Paul may have chosen this word, -[3797.04 --> 3805.34] harpazo, not to describe a literal snatching away or rapture, but rather to make a clever pun, an inversion -[3805.34 --> 3813.00] on the common use of this word. And so instead of being snatched away and caught up from life to death, -[3813.42 --> 3820.84] Christians are the kind of people who are caught up from death to life, right? From life to new life. -[3820.84 --> 3830.56] This is the inversion. This is the beauty of what's happening here in the gospel, right? This hope isn't -[3830.56 --> 3836.16] about escaping a world set for destruction, but ushering in the defeat of death by being snatched -[3836.16 --> 3850.00] from death into life. And then five, this real hope is forever. This is the rest of verse 17. -[3850.00 --> 3856.80] We're caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with -[3856.80 --> 3864.76] the Lord forever. So let's focus on the first idea there, to meet the Lord in the air. -[3866.20 --> 3873.80] Now sometimes people take this idea and they tie it to the previous idea of being caught up to meet -[3873.80 --> 3879.98] the Lord in the air. And they conclude that people are being gathered up into heaven and that -[3880.00 --> 3885.86] is where we will be forever. And maybe as you read it in English, that kind of makes sense. It seems -[3885.86 --> 3890.62] like the structure seems to go that way. But again, this is where that biblical theology thing becomes -[3890.62 --> 3898.90] helpful. The Greek word that's used here, apentesis, doesn't refer generically to any kind of meeting, -[3898.90 --> 3908.62] but it's actually a technical term that's used in that day to a specific custom of sending out a -[3908.62 --> 3917.58] delegation of leading citizens, a reception party outside of the city in order to meet a visiting -[3917.58 --> 3927.26] dignitary or member of a royal court, and then to escort that person in the final part of their journey -[3927.26 --> 3935.42] back into the city from which they were sent. So let me paint a picture for you of this formal, -[3935.42 --> 3944.16] technical use of the word to meet. This reception involves a group of prominent citizens who are -[3944.16 --> 3952.18] chosen to be members of the delegation or the reception party, and they would journey out to meet the -[3952.18 --> 3962.12] coming king or ruler or official. And city leaders would adopt a formal resolution to pay tribute, -[3962.12 --> 3969.64] to offer worship to this visiting dignitary, and to host a banquet for them. -[3970.86 --> 3979.28] And these citizens who go out would dress in their finest clothes, often white robes with laurel wreaths -[3979.28 --> 3985.94] on their heads, with crowns on their head, and they would leave the city to meet the dignitary along -[3985.94 --> 3992.88] the way. And after meeting and greeting the visiting dignitary, the reception party would escort this -[3992.88 --> 3999.50] person the rest of the way into the city, heralding their coming, saying, the king is coming, the king is -[3999.50 --> 4006.58] coming, make way, make ready for the feast of the king. And then sometimes this visiting dignitary, -[4006.68 --> 4012.80] when they arrived and got to the place where they were at, they would pronounce judgment on prisoners. -[4012.80 --> 4019.00] They would liberate some and set them free, and they would sentence others to execution. -[4020.66 --> 4027.86] This is the picture that Paul is painting of the return of Christ. So that means that at the return -[4027.86 --> 4035.16] of Christ, Christians are those dignitaries who go out. Christians usher him into the world as his -[4035.16 --> 4042.58] kingdom restored for the work of judgment and ruling forever. Right? That's how we'll be with him -[4042.58 --> 4050.68] forever under his rule in this world restored with our rightful king on the throne of his creation. -[4052.02 --> 4060.10] And again, to be clear, this is how that word, to meet, is used in other places in the Bible as well. -[4061.06 --> 4071.22] And so in Matthew 25, Jesus tells a parable of the ten virgins. And we read in that story, -[4071.22 --> 4077.38] at midnight, the cry rang out, here is the bridegroom, come out and meet him. And the rest of the parable, -[4077.84 --> 4085.26] the virgins who are ready, go out and join him, and they usher him into the wedding banquet. -[4086.36 --> 4093.92] The same kind of thing happens, actually, in Acts 28, 15, when Paul arrives in Rome. If you read that -[4093.92 --> 4100.32] story, the brothers and sisters of the church in Rome, who heard about Paul's coming, about his travels, -[4100.32 --> 4108.34] they go out to meet him, and they journey with him for the last 60 or so kilometers coming into Rome. -[4109.70 --> 4116.46] Now, all of this together, right, means that Christians aren't caught up or raptured in order -[4116.46 --> 4125.14] to escape, but we're caught up to meet the Lord, to welcome the returning Jesus, and to usher him to his -[4125.14 --> 4137.36] rightful place on the throne of this world, restored as his kingdom. That is the true story of what's going -[4137.36 --> 4149.84] on here. And so, lastly, sixth, what we get here is a real hope because of a real end for the real world. -[4149.84 --> 4159.56] And this is how we encourage one another. This is the word about God that we know about how the future -[4159.56 --> 4167.90] shapes how we live in the present. Good theology is practical theology, and this is a word of hope for -[4167.90 --> 4175.50] life in the face of death because death is not the end. Those who die know to be with Jesus, -[4175.50 --> 4184.44] right, and this is real, and it's for all the world to see. And our hope is in the reality that death is -[4184.44 --> 4195.82] defeated by life and that this new life is forever. I don't know about you, but that changes -[4195.82 --> 4207.02] how we go through even death, whether yours or someone else's. Remember, death isn't the end. -[4207.90 --> 4217.58] The resurrection, the return, and the reign of Jesus Christ is the end. And that is the most -[4217.58 --> 4225.34] encouraging news you will ever hear. Amen. Let's pray together. -[4232.02 --> 4239.90] God, you are so good. Even in the face of death, you have given us this gospel, -[4239.90 --> 4249.14] this truth that death is not the end, that even that enemy has been defeated by Jesus Christ. -[4250.72 --> 4253.54] And so there is no victory left for death, -[4254.26 --> 4264.02] that the sting of death is overcome by the resurrection of Jesus as a guarantee of our future -[4264.02 --> 4271.98] and glorious resurrection. And so, Lord God, especially now as we enter this season of Lent, -[4272.88 --> 4281.42] especially now as we prepare our hearts to meet you at the table, may we come in the truth and the hope -[4281.42 --> 4289.52] of this resurrection, in the truth and the hope of your return, in the truth and the hope of your reign -[4289.52 --> 4298.28] forever in this world restored. And so, God, even as we stare death in the face today, -[4298.28 --> 4303.50] we do so as those who sit around the banquet table of the King. -[4305.54 --> 4309.52] At this table, we proclaim your death until you come again. -[4309.52 --> 4318.18] Amen. And so, Lord Jesus, come quickly, we pray. In your name alone. Amen. -[4327.08 --> 4332.92] As we come to this table together, especially in the beginning of this season, -[4332.92 --> 4341.18] we do so reflecting on the death of Jesus Christ, reflecting on our own mortality and the sin that -[4341.18 --> 4349.34] brought him to the cross and on his suffering in our place. We do so as a community of believers -[4349.34 --> 4355.68] together. We will have some words of liturgy for you to speak, encourage you to speak them as you're -[4355.68 --> 4362.24] indicated on the screen, to join your hearts in prayer as we pray, because we come now to the table -[4362.24 --> 4373.82] of our Lord. Lift up your hearts. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. Let's pray together. -[4375.98 --> 4383.00] With joy, we praise you, gracious God, for you have created heaven and earth. You've made us -[4383.00 --> 4390.48] in your image. You have kept covenant with us, even when we fell into sin. We give you thanks for Jesus -[4390.48 --> 4398.56] Christ, who by his life, death and resurrection, open to us the way of everlasting life. Amen. -[4401.94 --> 4409.54] Our Lord Jesus, before he suffered, gave us this memorial of his sacrifice until he comes again. -[4410.46 --> 4415.16] The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread. And when he had given thanks, -[4415.16 --> 4426.04] he broke it and said, this is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me. And in the same way, -[4426.66 --> 4435.88] he took the cup after supper and he said, this cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this whenever you -[4435.88 --> 4438.88] drink it? Do this when you drink it? Do this when you drink it? In remembrance of me. -[4442.46 --> 4450.56] For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes again. -[4450.56 --> 4461.90] This is the mystery of our faith. Your death, O Christ, we proclaim. Your resurrection, we affirm with joy. -[4462.58 --> 4467.64] Your coming, we await with hope. Glory be to you, Lord Jesus. -[4469.26 --> 4476.12] Church family, the Lord has prepared his table for all who love him and trust in him alone for their -[4476.12 --> 4482.86] salvation. And so come to this table, you who have much faith and you who would like to have more. -[4483.56 --> 4489.00] Come to this table, you who have been here often and you who have not been for a long time. -[4489.34 --> 4496.24] Come to this table, you who have tried to follow Jesus and you who have failed. Come to this table -[4496.24 --> 4505.84] because Jesus Christ has been raised and so we proclaim victory by his death. Come to this table. -[4505.84 --> 4511.74] If you are here in person or if you are at home and online, come to this table because it is Christ -[4511.74 --> 4522.04] who meets us here. The gifts of God for the people of God. As we come to this table together, -[4522.84 --> 4530.62] we will do so in a particular manner for Emmanuel Church. We will gather in groups in the front and -[4530.62 --> 4536.90] we will encircle the table and you will be invited to pass the bread and pass the juice to the person -[4536.90 --> 4542.04] to your left or to your right. When you pass the bread, we invite you to say the body of Christ -[4542.04 --> 4547.74] given for you. When you pass the juice, we invite you to say the blood of Christ shed for you. -[4549.34 --> 4554.38] As we come to this table, we're going to have the first group come up, which will be the worship -[4554.38 --> 4559.92] leaders, the elders and the like who are going to help facilitate our serving together. Afterwards, -[4560.48 --> 4565.76] they will go up on stage and lead us in song for when you're not up here and there will be -[4565.76 --> 4572.40] serving elders to indicate when you can come to the front together. If you are unable to come to the -[4572.40 --> 4578.38] front but would like to receive the supper, please indicate that to the elder who is ushering and -[4578.38 --> 4583.82] they will meet you where you are and they will serve you, also saying the body of Christ given -[4583.82 --> 4590.28] for you and the blood of Christ shed for you. For those who desire, there's gluten-free bread in -[4590.28 --> 4595.82] the center of each tray of bread as well and there's some up here off to the side if you need -[4595.82 --> 4601.30] complete separation for that. I'm going to invite those who are helping us serve this morning up to -[4601.30 --> 4605.98] the front, elders and worship leaders, we can receive the first round of the table. -[4608.38 --> 4616.30] As they are coming to the front, I'd also like to make known that there are prayer partners -[4616.30 --> 4621.40] available, people with yellow name tags will be in the foyer at the back there if you'd like to meet -[4621.40 --> 4626.46] someone and receive prayer in lieu of coming up to the front or before you come up or even after you -[4626.46 --> 4632.76] come up to the front, you can meet them for prayer as part of your experience of God here at the table -[4632.76 --> 4633.16] together. -[4638.38 --> 4643.20] Body of Christ given for you. -[4646.80 --> 4648.12] Body of Christ given for you. -[4648.12 --> 4659.16] , blood of Christ given that for you are on the front, the storage for you there at the -[4659.16 --> 4660.68] bottom, you may see you the other individuals who are going to follow up to the front, but as you -[4660.68 --> 4662.56] check your mart at the table and Belauer is going togod Nilo. -[4662.56 --> 4665.82] Now, let's say that the들 does have a good amount of storage that you need for yourauftrabing. -[4665.82 --> 4667.98] Which is one of the most part, when we have to go to the last day chegou and after you look at the -[4667.98 --> 4670.92] broadcast, there is a game where I see a little bit more rounded but also filled with forefront what do you -[4670.92 --> 4671.80] this pattern pis zac and pr formations. -[4671.80 --> 4694.36] eat and remember -[4701.80 --> 4709.74] blood of Christ shed for you -[4709.74 --> 4716.80] blood of Christ shed for you -[4716.80 --> 4731.80] blood of Christ shed for you -[4731.80 --> 4737.80] blood of Christ shed for you -[4737.80 --> 4743.80] blood of Christ shed for you -[4743.80 --> 4756.80] blood of Christ shed for you -[4756.80 --> 4758.80] blood of Christ shed for you -[4758.80 --> 4764.80] blood of Christ shed for you -[4764.80 --> 4766.80] drink and believe -[4766.80 --> 4772.28] Amen. -[4772.28 --> 4772.32] Amen. -[4783.32 --> 4788.40] Thanks, man. -[4796.80 --> 4798.80] Amen. -[4826.80 --> 4828.80] Amen. -[4856.80 --> 4858.80] Amen. -[4886.80 --> 4888.80] Amen. -[4916.80 --> 4918.80] Amen. -[4946.80 --> 4948.80] Amen. -[4948.80 --> 4950.80] Amen. -[4976.80 --> 4978.80] Amen. -[5006.80 --> 5036.80] -[5036.80 --> 5051.52] When came the morning that sealed the promise, your very body began to breathe. -[5051.52 --> 5064.36] Out of the silence, the roaring lion declared that he has no blame on me. -[5064.36 --> 5070.32] Jesus, your victory. -[5077.38 --> 5082.40] Hallelujah, praise the one who set me free. -[5084.64 --> 5089.00] Hallelujah, death has lost his grip on me. -[5089.00 --> 5095.64] You have broken every chain, the salvation in your name. -[5095.64 --> 5102.08] Jesus Christ, my living hope. -[5104.26 --> 5108.82] Hallelujah, praise the one who set me free. -[5108.82 --> 5115.46] Hallelujah, death has lost his grip on me. -[5115.46 --> 5122.04] You have broken every chain, the salvation in your name. -[5122.46 --> 5127.46] Jesus Christ, my living hope. -[5127.46 --> 5134.10] Jesus Christ, my living hope. -[5134.10 --> 5141.02] Oh God, you are my living hope. -[5141.02 --> 5148.72] Oh God, no Lord. -[5148.72 --> 5178.70] piano plays softly -[5178.72 --> 5187.28] Speak, O Lord, as we come to you -[5187.28 --> 5195.14] To receive the word of your Holy Word -[5195.14 --> 5202.10] Take your truth, plant it deep in us -[5202.10 --> 5209.06] Shake and passion us in your life -[5209.06 --> 5216.10] And the light of Christ that we see today -[5216.80 --> 5224.10] In our acts of love and our deeds of faith -[5224.10 --> 5231.10] Seek, O Lord, and fulfill in us -[5231.76 --> 5238.10] All your purposes for your glory -[5238.10 --> 5253.10] Teach us, Lord, your obedience -[5253.10 --> 5260.10] Holy reverence, humility -[5260.10 --> 5268.10] Test our lives and our actions -[5268.10 --> 5274.10] In the radiance of your glory -[5274.10 --> 5279.24] He wants to raise your eyes -[5279.24 --> 5286.24] To see your majesty bowed -[5286.24 --> 5289.24] In the glory of Jesus -[5289.24 --> 5296.24] Words of heart that you never gave -[5296.24 --> 5299.24] That the truth prevailed -[5299.24 --> 5306.24] Over our lives and our lives -[5306.24 --> 5317.24] Take your Lord and renew our hearts -[5317.24 --> 5320.24] Now, what's Christ's light -[5320.24 --> 5325.24] Till your plans go out -[5325.24 --> 5328.24] Truth, Son, change -[5328.24 --> 5331.24] From the dawn of time -[5331.24 --> 5335.24] That will echo down -[5335.24 --> 5338.24] Through eternity -[5338.24 --> 5342.24] And by grace we'll stand -[5342.24 --> 5343.24] Of your promises -[5343.24 --> 5345.24] Of your promises -[5345.24 --> 5349.24] And by faith we'll walk -[5349.24 --> 5353.24] As you walk with us -[5353.24 --> 5355.24] Take our Lord -[5355.24 --> 5359.24] Till your churches build -[5359.24 --> 5362.24] And the earth is filled -[5362.24 --> 5378.80] warerne -[5392.24 --> 5415.26] What is our hope in life and death? -[5415.26 --> 5419.94] Christ alone, Christ alone. -[5419.94 --> 5430.08] What is our only confidence that our souls to Him belong? -[5430.50 --> 5435.18] Who holds our days within His hand? -[5435.50 --> 5439.94] What comes apart from His command? -[5439.94 --> 5445.14] And what will keep us to the end? -[5445.50 --> 5450.08] The love of Christ in which we stand. -[5450.08 --> 5462.08] O sing hallelujah, our hope's great eternal. -[5462.08 --> 5471.84] O sing hallelujah, now I dare to be confessed. -[5471.84 --> 5475.84] Christ our hope in my name. -[5475.84 --> 5485.98] O sing hallelujah, our hope's great eternal. -[5485.98 --> 5487.98] O sing hallelujah, our hope's great eternal. -[5487.98 --> 5491.98] O sing hallelujah, our hope's great eternal. -[5491.98 --> 5497.48] Where is His grace and goodness known? -[5498.14 --> 5502.32] In our great Redeemer's life. -[5502.32 --> 5506.98] Who holds our faith when fears arise? -[5506.98 --> 5511.98] Who stands above the stormy trial? -[5511.98 --> 5516.98] Who sends the waves that bring us high? -[5516.98 --> 5523.98] Unto the shore of the rock of Christ. -[5523.98 --> 5531.98] O sing hallelujah, our hope's great eternal. -[5531.98 --> 5534.98] O sing hallelujah, our hope's great eternal. -[5534.98 --> 5538.98] O sing hallelujah, now and ever we confess. -[5538.98 --> 5540.98] Christ our hope in my name. -[5540.98 --> 5547.98] Christ our hope in my name. -[5549.98 --> 5558.98] A sing hallelujah, now and ever we confess. -[5558.98 --> 5560.98] Burst de-eats, Brust de-eats. -[5561.18 --> 5563.98] Ed, Burst de-ev find him hunger, in the name of Christ God. -[5564.58 --> 5565.98] O ve candles espero eternal. -[5565.98 --> 5567.98] God desupe will take months eternal. -[5567.98 --> 5569.98] B exemplary, near the storm 발라s on earth is showed very clear. -[5569.98 --> 5572.28] everlasting life -[5572.28 --> 5573.10] within -[5573.10 --> 5576.14] where we will rise -[5576.14 --> 5578.22] to be the Lord -[5578.22 --> 5580.34] when sin and death -[5580.94 --> 5582.34] will be destroyed -[5582.94 --> 5584.54] and we will -[5584.54 --> 5585.82] be pleased -[5585.82 --> 5587.84] in heaven's glory -[5587.84 --> 5589.54] when Christ is -[5589.54 --> 5592.34] our forevermore -[5592.34 --> 5594.34] oh -[5594.34 --> 5596.34] oh -[5596.34 --> 5596.96] sing -[5596.96 --> 5599.34] hallelujah -[5599.34 --> 5602.12] our most -[5602.12 --> 5604.60] praise eternal -[5604.60 --> 5606.08] oh -[5606.08 --> 5606.60] sing -[5606.60 --> 5609.34] hallelujah -[5609.34 --> 5610.18] to the -[5610.18 --> 5611.30] out there -[5611.30 --> 5612.70] we have -[5612.70 --> 5615.46] Christ our hope -[5615.46 --> 5616.26] and life -[5616.26 --> 5617.58] and death -[5617.58 --> 5618.74] oh -[5618.74 --> 5619.22] sing -[5619.22 --> 5621.34] hallelujah -[5621.34 --> 5624.34] our most -[5624.34 --> 5625.58] praise -[5625.58 --> 5626.34] eternal -[5626.34 --> 5628.32] oh -[5628.32 --> 5629.32] sing -[5629.32 --> 5631.58] hallelujah -[5631.58 --> 5633.84] now and ever -[5633.84 --> 5635.58] we confess -[5635.58 --> 5637.64] to pass our hope -[5637.64 --> 5638.48] in life -[5638.48 --> 5639.82] and death -[5639.82 --> 5640.28] of -[5640.28 --> 5641.36] sing -[5641.36 --> 5644.32] hallelujah -[5644.32 --> 5646.54] our most -[5646.54 --> 5648.58] praise eternal -[5648.58 --> 5650.58] oh -[5650.58 --> 5650.98] sing -[5650.98 --> 5654.24] hallelujah -[5654.24 --> 5655.98] now and ever -[5655.98 --> 5657.36] we confess -[5657.36 --> 5659.96] Christ our hope -[5659.96 --> 5660.30] in life -[5660.30 --> 5661.98] and death -[5661.98 --> 5664.30] now and ever -[5664.30 --> 5666.30] we confess -[5666.30 --> 5668.42] Christ our hope -[5668.42 --> 5669.30] in life -[5669.30 --> 5670.42] and death -[5670.42 --> 5673.26] is -[5673.26 --> 5678.48] conf -[5678.54 --> 5679.26] peace -[5679.54 --> 5679.70] amen -[5679.70 --> 5679.78] oh -[5679.78 --> 5679.80] gone -[5679.80 --> 5681.74] in life -[5681.74 --> 5681.76] and ever -[5681.76 --> 5683.74] 前 -[5683.74 --> 5686.02] am -[5686.02 --> 5686.88] oh -[5686.88 --> 5687.12] oh -[5687.12 --> 5687.94] oh -[5687.94 --> 5689.26] пом -[5689.26 --> 5689.56] ho -[5689.56 --> 5689.68] expand -[5689.68 --> 5691.06] al -[5691.06 --> 5691.74] sage -[5691.74 --> 5721.72] Thank you. -[5721.74 --> 5751.72] Thank you. -[5751.74 --> 5764.74] I once was lost but now I'm found, was blind but now I see. -[5764.74 --> 5778.74] There's grace that brought my heart to Him and grace my fears relieved. -[5778.74 --> 5791.74] How precious death and grace appear, the hour I first meet. -[5791.74 --> 5799.74] The tears are gone, life is set free. -[5799.74 --> 5805.74] My God, my Savior, has rest on me. -[5806.74 --> 5813.74] And like a flood, His mercy brings. -[5813.74 --> 5820.74] My ending love, my raising grace. -[5820.74 --> 5830.74] The Lord has come, His love to me. -[5830.74 --> 5837.74] His word my hopes and goals. -[5837.74 --> 5844.74] He will my shield and portion be. -[5844.74 --> 5851.74] As long as I can do. -[5851.74 --> 5864.74] And I will my God, my Savior, has rest on me. -[5864.74 --> 5871.74] And like a flood, His mercy brings. -[5871.74 --> 5878.74] My ending love, my raising grace. -[5878.74 --> 5896.74] Even there ten thousand years bright shining as the sun. -[5896.74 --> 5903.74] We've no less days to sing God's praise. -[5903.74 --> 5910.74] Than when we first meet. -[5910.74 --> 5916.74] My chains are gone, life is set free. -[5916.74 --> 5923.74] My God, my Savior, my Savior, has rest on me. -[5923.74 --> 5929.74] And like a flood, His mercy brings. -[5929.74 --> 5937.74] My unending love, amazing grace. -[5937.74 --> 5944.74] My chains are gone, life is set free. -[5944.74 --> 5945.74] My chains are gone, life is set free. -[5945.74 --> 5951.74] My God, my Savior, has rest on me. -[5951.74 --> 5958.74] And like a flood, His mercy brings. -[5958.74 --> 5975.74] My unending love, amazing grace. -[5975.74 --> 5980.74] As you go into this day, this week, this season of Lent, -[5980.74 --> 5983.74] know that God Himself goes with you. -[5983.74 --> 5987.74] And you go commissioned and empowered by the Spirit -[5987.74 --> 5992.74] to proclaim the gospel that we have heard this morning. -[5992.74 --> 5996.74] Go with the blessing of our God. -[5996.74 --> 5999.74] God, go before you to lead you. -[5999.74 --> 6001.74] God, go behind you to protect you. -[6001.74 --> 6003.74] God, go beneath you to support you. -[6003.74 --> 6007.74] And God, go beside you to befriend you. -[6007.74 --> 6012.74] Do not be afraid of death or trial or any tribulation. -[6012.74 --> 6017.74] Do not be afraid, but go in peace and in hope -[6017.74 --> 6021.74] to love and serve the Lord. -[6021.74 --> 6022.74] Amen. -[6022.74 --> 6024.74] God, go with the isolates. -[6024.74 --> 6025.74] Amen. -[6025.74 --> 6028.74] Amen. -[6029.74 --> 6030.74] Amen. -[6030.74 --> 6031.74] Amen. -[6031.74 --> 6036.74] Amen. -[6036.74 --> 6037.74] Amen. -[6037.74 --> 6038.74] Amen. -[6038.74 --> 6039.74] Amen. -[6039.74 --> 6040.74] Amen. -[6040.74 --> 6041.74] Amen. -[6041.74 --> 6044.06] We're almost home. -[6044.54 --> 6050.32] In every time the danger we're almost home, -[6050.70 --> 6053.32] how we build our saints, -[6053.46 --> 6056.56] have you full of us, Lord? -[6056.96 --> 6061.18] No stopping, now we're almost home. -[6061.18 --> 6071.18] The promised land is falling, we're almost home. -[6072.40 --> 6078.10] And not in tears, gosh, fall, and we're almost home. -[6078.52 --> 6084.18] Make ready now your souls, for let kingdom come. -[6084.56 --> 6088.18] No turning back, we're almost home. -[6088.18 --> 6091.18] We're almost home. -[6092.38 --> 6095.18] We're almost home. -[6096.44 --> 6099.74] So press on towards the message show. -[6100.00 --> 6101.18] Oh, praise the Lord. -[6102.18 --> 6105.18] We're almost home. -[6109.78 --> 6112.18] Journey us together. -[6113.18 --> 6115.56] We're almost home. -[6115.56 --> 6121.52] To that grave forever, we're almost home. -[6121.90 --> 6124.56] What song did you receive? -[6124.70 --> 6127.56] Grand and happy throw. -[6128.06 --> 6131.56] And feet apart, we're almost home. -[6131.56 --> 6132.58] gh ALL opportunity? -[6132.58 --> 6134.56] The cloud, we're almost home. -[6134.56 --> 6139.76] We're almost home. -[6140.00 --> 6143.26] So press on towards the message show. -[6143.52 --> 6145.32] Oh, praise the Lord. -[6145.58 --> 6148.60] We're almost home. -[6153.00 --> 6156.12] The sun is just a paper. -[6156.12 --> 6159.00] We're almost home. -[6159.24 --> 6162.62] The sun is setting yonder. -[6162.62 --> 6165.32] We're almost gone -[6165.32 --> 6166.86] To encourage -[6166.86 --> 6168.56] From His darkness -[6168.56 --> 6171.78] So great to talk -[6171.78 --> 6172.76] To encourage -[6172.76 --> 6176.18] We're almost gone -[6176.18 --> 6179.22] Almost gone -[6179.22 --> 6182.74] We're almost gone -[6182.74 --> 6185.84] So press on towards -[6185.84 --> 6187.24] The message show -[6187.24 --> 6189.18] Praise the Lord -[6189.18 --> 6192.24] We're almost gone -[6192.24 --> 6195.42] Almost gone -[6195.42 --> 6198.78] We're almost gone -[6198.78 --> 6202.06] So press on towards -[6202.06 --> 6203.50] The message show -[6203.50 --> 6205.76] Praise the Lord -[6205.76 --> 6209.42] We're almost gone -[6222.24 --> 6236.24] And it's been aичес been a dumb lady -[6236.24 --> 6237.58] I love you -[6237.58 --> 6238.90] And it's been a Titan -[6238.90 --> 6240.44] We're almost gone -[6240.58 --> 6242.02] block lavish -[6242.02 --> 6243.60] And it's happened that -[6243.60 --> 6244.44] The train said to her -[6244.44 --> 6245.64] So press on towards diff --git a/Sunday Worship, March 2, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, March 2, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 08bb6a3ac1ea3ca7be3e28dc9f1a85cb44983acf..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, March 2, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,123 +0,0 @@ -• A series of repeated phrases ("Let's go") -• References to time (60 minutes, 50 o'clock) -• Discussion about someone's wife and parents -• Repeated expressions of gratitude ("Thank you") -• Mention of a dog breaking out -• Reference to 2,000 people leaving -• Use of non-English words or phrases (e.g. "Nooit", "двух") -• Quotes or references to scripture -• Discussion about being hands and feet for God -• Welcome and introduction by Pastor Chris -• Announcements: - • Mexico Mission Team needs drivers for trip to and from airport - • Youth coffee at Kuhl's house after worship service - • Ash Wednesday service on Wednesday at 7 a.m. -• Invitation to worship, including greeting and welcome to those around you -• Reading of Matthew 18:20 and introduction to the day's worship -• Jesus is the source of heaven's light on earth -• The chain between God and humans was broken by Jesus -• Jesus lives in humanity as hope, love, and light -• Confession of sins and trusting in God's grace leads to reconciliation -• The mercy and love of God are unsurpassing and forever enduring -• The power of God's love being measureless and strong -• Commissioning a group going to Mexico for mission work -• Partnership between the church and groups/ministries in Tijuana/Rosarito, Mexico -• History of the church partnering with these groups for over 25 years -• The message of the gospel of Jesus Christ being sent around the world -• Commissioning team members with the gospel to make disciples everywhere -• Prayer over the team before they depart -• Prayers for missionary friends and team in Mexico -• Mission trip details: kids festival, Reactivate conference, church facility upgrade -• Fundraising goal: $2,000 for ministry outreach -• Thank you message for church's generosity and support -• Praying for peace and blessings -• Inviting kids to join in a gathering -• Welcoming Hank to the front of the group, but having trouble getting him to move -• A child named Hank shares a story about being excluded from a "cool critter club" because he couldn't perform certain abilities (jumping high, flying, catching flies) -• A story is told about a dog helping a squirrel by digging up its lost chestnut -• The story illustrates the value of kindness and helping others, mirroring Jesus' invitation to everyone to follow him -• The congregation goes to children's worship time to discuss following Jesus -• A prayer is said for guidance and understanding in following Jesus' teachings -• Pastor Chris invites Susan LeClear, a colleague from Canada, to talk about her role as Director of Candidacy in the Christian Reformed Church -• The role of being involved in the work of candidacy and the importance of supporting emerging leaders. -• Examples of candidates who have been supported, including Kevin Lobert and Josh Chamberlain. -• Recognition of those who have prayed for and encouraged candidates throughout their process. -• Acknowledgement of the sacrifices made by families of candidates. -• The importance of laborers in the harvest field, as mentioned in Luke 10:2. -• Encouragement to continue investing in leaders and blessing people. -• Gratitude for ministry shares given to the Christian Reformed Church. -• Invitation to join in prayer for the Lord of the harvest to send laborers into his harvest field. -• Michaela Chamberlain is engaged to Caden -• Tessa has been diagnosed with B-cell lymphoma and is undergoing further testing -• Ann Marie Van Muen is having open heart surgery -• Lena Chepkama's health is improving -• John Van Bergkijk is undergoing treatment for non-invasive bladder cancer -• Amanda Hogawone's sister and Klaus Tessamacher's daughter Tanya are experiencing stage 4 cancer -• Prayers for those struggling with addiction, mental health issues, depression, anxiety, and winter difficulties -• Prayer for Pastor Chris as he leads the study of Paul's letter to the Thessalonians -• The church's reliance on quiet, unsung servants -• Importance of service without recognition or reward -• The role of individual members in contributing to the church's success -• Jesus as the backbone of the church -• The Holy Spirit's role in facilitating the church's ministry -• Josh Chamberlain (a specific person) and his contribution to the church -• Ecclesiology (the study of church structure and organization) -• Recognizing and appreciating the efforts of those who quietly serve -• Loving others and living quietly as compelling acts of mission in the world -• Review of Thessalonians chapter four, specifically verses one through eight -• The positive example of loving one another as a way to strive after in the world -• Paul's use of "taught by God" language from Old Testament prophets -• Jesus' application of this language to himself and his teaching -• Jesus' unity with God as one with the Father -• The redemption reality being for all people, including every tribe, tongue, and nation -• Jesus showing us what the covenant of grace was always about -• The Holy Spirit's role in teaching and anointing believers -• Being taught by God is connected to one's union with Christ and transformation into a new creation -• Redemption is received from God, not achieved through human effort -• Living a covenant with God defines who you are -• God is immutable (unchanging) and this means that our relationship with him is ultimately unchangeable -• This provides security rooted in God's character -• Identity formation can be a process of trying on different identities, especially during adolescence or major life transitions -• Having a foundation in Christ Jesus provides stability and security regardless of external circumstances -• The speaker discusses changes in life that can make one feel lost or uncertain about their identity -• The foundation for navigating life's transitions is a fixed, rooted, and immutable identity in Jesus Christ -• Jesus' teachings emphasize the importance of loving God with all one's heart, soul, mind, and strength, and loving one's neighbor as oneself -• The speaker references several Bible passages that reinforce the command to love one another -• The concept of "loving one another" is a central theme in the section of text being discussed. -• Family defined in the ancient world -• Paul's broader definition of family -• The gospel redefines family and includes those who do God's will -• Adoption to sonship and becoming brothers and sisters -• A new identity in Christ Jesus as a part of the body of Christ -• Loving each other more and more because of this new identity -• Prioritizing spiritual relationships over biological ones -• Prioritization of biological family vs redefinition of family in scripture -• The church as a new family and spiritual community -• Dependence on the church for support and guidance -• Covenants and baptism, including becoming spiritual parents to each other's kids -• Loving the church through serving, trusting, vulnerability, honesty, and meeting others in their brokenness -• Polarization and division in online and real-life spaces -• The importance of showing love to those who disagree with us -• Defining relationships through the kind of love we show others -• Whether the church is known for this kind of love -• Making a change and painting a new picture -• Being mindful of one's own business and not being dependent on others -• Leading a quiet life and working with one's hands -• The importance of daily actions in showing love and respect to others -• The distinction between doing good deeds occasionally or when feeling motivated versus making it a daily habit -• The idea that being a Christian missionary involves both quiet service and speaking out against injustice -• The balance between serving quietly and having the responsibility to speak up and make a bigger impact -• The value of quiet, consistent service in making a difference in the lives of others -• The importance of declaring God's gospel in a quiet life and loving one another -• Praying for transformation of hearts and lives through God's word -• Seeking to proclaim Jesus' name in love and trust -• Being sent out by holy God with the power of His spirit -• Following after God, even when facing unknown outcomes -• The deep, deep love of Jesus and His intercession for loved ones -• God's presence and blessing for life and faith -• Comfort and protection from God -• The joy of living with God beyond mortality -• The washing away of sins -• Eternal life and happiness in God's presence -• A future reunion with God, dancing together in heaven -• Gratitude and thanksgiving for God's love \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, March 2, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, March 2, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0019d018f8662390c3d350be928eb29702554d41..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, March 2, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2010 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 5.60] exam -[30.00 --> 34.00] ... -[34.00 --> 38.00] ... -[38.00 --> 42.00] ... -[42.00 --> 48.00] ... -[48.00 --> 50.00] ... -[50.00 --> 52.00] ... -[52.00 --> 54.00] ... -[54.00 --> 58.00] ... -[58.00 --> 64.00] ... -[64.00 --> 66.00] ... -[66.00 --> 70.00] ... -[70.00 --> 78.00] ... -[78.00 --> 80.00] ... -[80.00 --> 82.00] ... -[82.00 --> 84.00] ... -[84.00 --> 86.00] ... -[86.00 --> 86.66] Let's go. -[116.00 --> 145.98] Let's go. -[146.00 --> 175.98] Let's go. -[176.00 --> 205.98] Let's go. -[206.00 --> 208.00] Let's go. -[208.00 --> 212.00] Let's go. -[212.00 --> 214.00] Let's go. -[214.00 --> 216.00] Let's go. -[216.00 --> 220.00] Let's go. -[220.00 --> 222.00] Let's go. -[222.00 --> 226.00] Let's go. -[226.00 --> 228.00] Let's go. -[228.00 --> 230.00] Let's go. -[230.00 --> 232.00] Let's go. -[232.00 --> 234.00] Let's go. -[234.00 --> 238.00] Let's go. -[238.00 --> 240.00] Let's go. -[240.00 --> 242.00] Let's go. -[242.00 --> 244.00] Let's go. -[244.00 --> 246.00] Let's go. -[246.00 --> 248.00] Let's go. -[248.00 --> 250.00] Let's go. -[250.00 --> 252.00] Let's go. -[252.00 --> 262.00] Let's go. -[262.00 --> 264.00] Let's go. -[264.00 --> 266.00] Let's go. -[266.00 --> 268.00] Let's go. -[268.00 --> 270.00] Let's go. -[270.00 --> 272.00] Let's go. -[272.00 --> 274.00] Let's go. -[274.00 --> 276.00] Let's go. -[276.00 --> 278.00] Let's go. -[278.00 --> 280.00] Let's go. -[280.00 --> 282.00] Let's go. -[282.00 --> 284.00] Let's go. -[284.00 --> 286.00] Let's go. -[286.00 --> 288.00] Let's go. -[288.00 --> 290.00] Let's go. -[290.00 --> 292.00] Let's go. -[292.00 --> 294.00] Let's go. -[294.00 --> 296.00] Let's go. -[296.00 --> 298.00] Let's go. -[298.00 --> 300.00] Let's go. -[300.00 --> 302.00] Let's go. -[302.00 --> 304.00] Let's go. -[304.00 --> 306.00] Great. -[306.00 --> 308.00] So, you can feel comfortable. -[308.00 --> 310.00] Thank you for this. -[310.00 --> 312.00] Really? -[312.00 --> 314.00] Yeah. -[314.00 --> 316.00] Happy days. -[316.00 --> 318.00] Our dog will probably break out. -[318.00 --> 320.00] Yeah, we're going to go on. -[320.00 --> 322.00] 2,000 people left. -[322.00 --> 324.00] One day and three. -[324.00 --> 326.00] Please stand. -[326.00 --> 328.00] Every day. -[328.00 --> 329.00] Bye, my friend. -[330.00 --> 332.00] This is only 60 nooit. -[332.00 --> 332.34] Unfortunately, -[332.34 --> 334.34] this is 50 o'clock. -[338.42 --> 340.46] All right. -[341.00 --> 342.00] Thank you very much. -[342.00 --> 344.38] I need to do here. -[344.38 --> 346.38] Thanks. -[346.38 --> 348.00] I need them to do all this. -[348.00 --> 365.18] I'm just explaining this to my wife. -[365.18 --> 367.68] I didn't hear it to my parents. -[368.80 --> 371.18] Parents twice made a school before parents. -[371.18 --> 372.74] So she's a great person. -[372.74 --> 373.52] She's a great person. -[373.52 --> 374.52] She's a great person. -[374.52 --> 375.52] She's a great person. -[375.52 --> 405.50] She's a great person. -[405.52 --> 409.52] She's a great person. -[409.52 --> 413.52] She's a great person. -[413.52 --> 417.52] She's a great person. -[417.52 --> 447.50] Thank you. -[447.52 --> 477.50] Thank you. -[477.52 --> 507.50] Thank you. -[507.52 --> 509.52] Thank you. -[537.52 --> 539.52] Thank you. -[567.52 --> 569.52] Thank you. -[569.52 --> 573.52] Thank you. -[573.52 --> 575.52] Thank you. -[575.52 --> 577.52] Thank you. -[577.52 --> 579.52] Thank you. -[579.52 --> 581.52] Thank you. -[581.52 --> 585.52] Thank you. -[585.52 --> 587.52] Thank you. -[587.52 --> 589.52] Thank you. -[589.52 --> 595.52] Jed難ku -[595.52 --> 597.52] five -[597.52 --> 599.52] New -[599.52 --> 602.52] Christmas -[602.52 --> 603.88] New -[603.88 --> 606.52] двух -[606.52 --> 612.62] With you, God, it all comes down to this. -[613.30 --> 617.16] To be your hands and feet. -[618.52 --> 621.98] Good news to all the world. -[622.78 --> 625.82] Oh, the truth will set us. -[628.40 --> 629.78] Good morning. -[630.96 --> 632.80] Oh, I think we can do better than that. -[632.84 --> 633.42] Good morning. -[634.42 --> 635.90] Hey, much better. -[635.90 --> 637.72] Welcome to church. -[638.18 --> 640.94] Special welcome if you are a guest with us this morning. -[641.38 --> 646.14] An extra special welcome if you are a guest with us this morning from Vernon, -[646.74 --> 651.04] here for the Mexico Mission Team Commissioning Service. -[651.16 --> 654.54] We are grateful to gather in worship this morning. -[654.88 --> 655.56] My name is Chris. -[656.04 --> 661.02] I'm one of the pastors here at Emanuel, and it's my blessing to lead along with a few others -[661.02 --> 663.84] and some we haven't yet seen in our shared worship together. -[663.84 --> 668.54] Before we begin in earnest, we've got a couple announcements that we want to make sure everyone -[668.54 --> 668.92] hears. -[669.90 --> 674.54] And so, first of all, as I've already mentioned, the Mexico Mission Team, we're still looking -[674.54 --> 678.04] for drivers to get them to and from the airport. -[678.80 --> 683.94] As I understand it, we have enough drivers except one for the way there. -[683.94 --> 689.64] So, we need one more driver for the way there, and then we need, as I heard, a whole slew of -[689.64 --> 691.72] drivers for the way back yet. -[692.16 --> 695.40] And so, if you are able to do that, please talk to Brandon. -[695.58 --> 697.26] He's over there after service. -[697.72 --> 701.26] Or Pastor Kevin or myself will help coordinate and figure that out. -[701.26 --> 707.76] After worship today, youth coffee is taking place at the Kuhl's house. -[708.00 --> 710.28] And so, Kuhl's, raise your hands if you need directions. -[710.40 --> 710.86] There you go. -[711.40 --> 714.40] Pastor Kevin also can give information about what that means. -[714.48 --> 717.22] That's for the youth involved in our youth ministry here. -[717.46 --> 721.08] Go and have coffee and some lunch at their house today. -[721.08 --> 727.58] And then, lastly, on Wednesday, the season of Lent is beginning. -[728.26 --> 736.06] And so, the season of Lent is a time of introspection and reflection as we approach Good Friday and Easter Sunday. -[736.46 --> 743.00] A time where we prepare our hearts and reflect on the truth of Jesus coming to live and to die in our place. -[743.40 --> 746.96] And so, we begin that with an Ash Wednesday service. -[747.20 --> 749.68] That's going to happen at 7 a.m. -[749.68 --> 751.50] Hear that correctly? -[751.62 --> 760.10] 7 a.m. on Ash Wednesday so that we can enter that season in a sort of sunrise opportunity to begin it, -[760.36 --> 762.72] reflecting on our own mortality and sin. -[763.12 --> 766.64] And then, we'll be sent out into that day, into that season. -[767.36 --> 770.30] The service is only about half an hour at 7 a.m. -[770.30 --> 773.00] So, most of you will still make it to work on time. -[773.00 --> 780.52] But we look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at our 7 a.m. Ash Wednesday service this coming week. -[781.32 --> 783.02] That's it for our announcements this morning. -[783.18 --> 785.64] And so, as you're able, and where you are, I'm going to invite you to stand. -[786.34 --> 788.56] We can be gathered up into God's presence together. -[789.08 --> 791.22] We mark that by receiving His greeting. -[791.22 --> 797.88] And then, after we receive God's greeting, I invite you to turn to those around you and welcome them into worship. -[798.42 --> 800.68] I don't have to remind you of this, but just a note. -[801.06 --> 806.16] It's cold and cough season still, and so not everybody wants to shake hands or hug or the like. -[806.82 --> 811.42] And so, just make sure you get some sort of, like, visual cue that a handshake is okay. -[812.80 --> 814.68] Otherwise, you can head nod and just say, -[814.84 --> 815.22] Good morning. -[815.36 --> 816.46] Peace of Christ be with you. -[816.46 --> 820.02] Receive the greeting of our God in worship this morning. -[821.30 --> 824.54] Grace, mercy, and peace to you. -[824.94 --> 828.86] From God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, His Son, and our Savior, -[829.30 --> 831.84] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[832.84 --> 833.28] Amen. -[836.16 --> 837.26] Morning. Peace of Christ. -[837.86 --> 839.00] Morning. Peace of Christ. -[839.90 --> 841.80] Kezia, morning. Peace of Christ. -[846.90 --> 847.34] Morning. -[849.00 --> 850.40] Morning, Ruby. Peace of Christ. -[850.64 --> 850.90] Morning. -[852.20 --> 853.34] Morning. Peace of Christ. -[853.54 --> 853.74] Morning. -[853.94 --> 855.48] I feel like my microphone is still on. -[856.14 --> 856.90] Go ahead. -[856.90 --> 856.92] Go ahead. -[856.92 --> 886.90] Thank you. -[886.90 --> 893.54] Good morning. Welcome to worship this morning. In Matthew 18 verse 20, Jesus says, -[893.90 --> 900.12] For where two or three are gathered in my name, there I am with them. Today we gather -[900.12 --> 905.52] together in the great name of Jesus, our hope and our strength. Let's worship him together. -[905.52 --> 927.52] Jesus, hope of the nations. Jesus, come before all who bore. You are the source of heaven's -[927.52 --> 946.28] light on earth. Jesus, light in the darkness. Jesus, through this circumstance. You are the source of heaven's light on earth. -[946.28 --> 955.28] In history, you live in God. You are all the chains. You are all to die. -[956.28 --> 971.14] You are the hope, living in us. You are the rock, living in us. You are the light, shining on all the world to see. -[971.14 --> 977.12] You are the way, believing in us. You are theiri. Your heart, living in a establish M linearly. -[977.88 --> 995.14] You are the advocate for law, and мясe is theесть. You are the devil, andét me as a passer. -[995.14 --> 1003.40] Jesus, hope of the nations -[1003.40 --> 1009.06] Jesus, conquer for all who are born -[1009.06 --> 1014.62] You are the source of heaven's oil and fire -[1014.62 --> 1020.90] Jesus, light in the darkness -[1020.90 --> 1025.66] Jesus, in the eternal sense -[1025.66 --> 1032.28] You are the source of heaven's light on earth -[1032.28 --> 1037.00] In history, you live without -[1037.00 --> 1042.78] You broke the chain to go to us -[1042.78 --> 1047.02] You are the hope, you live in us -[1047.02 --> 1051.30] You are the love, you will we trust -[1051.30 --> 1058.02] You are the light, shining for all the world to see -[1058.02 --> 1064.08] You are the source of death, conquer we fear -[1064.08 --> 1067.78] Our friends of peace, drive us in -[1067.78 --> 1075.02] Jesus, our hope, living for all the world to see -[1075.02 --> 1078.74] Lord, we believe -[1078.74 --> 1082.84] Lord, we believe -[1082.84 --> 1087.22] Lord, we believe -[1087.22 --> 1092.98] Lord, we believe -[1092.98 --> 1095.04] Lord, we believe -[1095.04 --> 1097.04] Lord, we believe -[1097.04 --> 1100.94] Lord, we believe -[1100.94 --> 1114.70] Lord, we believe -[1114.70 --> 1120.28] It is a wonder of the King -[1120.28 --> 1126.46] Gold in majesty -[1126.46 --> 1132.46] All the earth rejoice, all the earth rejoice -[1132.46 --> 1138.46] In the essence of the night -[1138.46 --> 1143.46] The darkness rise to life -[1143.46 --> 1149.46] And trembles at His voice, trembles at His voice -[1149.46 --> 1160.46] How great is our love, sing with me How great is our love -[1160.46 --> 1171.46] In all the sea of rain, how great is our love -[1171.46 --> 1179.46] From age to age He stands -[1179.46 --> 1183.46] And time is in His hands -[1183.46 --> 1189.46] Beginning and the end, beginning and the end -[1189.46 --> 1195.46] But God agreed in one -[1195.46 --> 1200.46] Falling spirit inside -[1200.46 --> 1203.46] The lion at the end -[1203.46 --> 1207.46] The lion at the end -[1207.46 --> 1217.46] How great is our love, sing with me How great is our love -[1217.46 --> 1227.46] You all will see how great, how great is our love -[1227.46 --> 1241.46] The name above all names Worthy of all names -[1241.46 --> 1251.46] My heart will sing with me How great is our love -[1251.46 --> 1264.46] The name above all names Worthy of all praise -[1264.46 --> 1274.46] I want to sing How great is our love -[1274.46 --> 1286.46] How great is our love Sing with me how great is our love -[1286.46 --> 1288.46] How great is our love -[1288.46 --> 1292.46] How great is our love -[1292.46 --> 1296.46] How great is our love -[1296.46 --> 1307.46] Our confession and assurance today is this -[1307.46 --> 1310.46] When we offer God our confession -[1310.46 --> 1314.46] We enter the beautiful work of reconciliation -[1314.46 --> 1319.46] Which begins with our confessing our sins and sinful nature to God -[1319.46 --> 1322.46] And trusting in His grace -[1322.46 --> 1327.46] Let us take a few moments now in time of personal silent prayer -[1344.46 --> 1345.46] And loving the Lord -[1345.46 --> 1346.46] How great is your love -[1346.46 --> 1349.46] And the words of heart -[1349.46 --> 1351.46] Let us ask whether your love -[1351.46 --> 1354.46] Or what God rebounds -[1354.46 --> 1355.46] Let us take my hand -[1355.46 --> 1356.46] For each of our hearts -[1356.46 --> 1357.46] Is there for you -[1357.46 --> 1359.44] To this very people -[1359.44 --> 1359.46] sev anything -[1359.46 --> 1364.46] We pray -[1364.46 --> 1369.46] Let us just work -[1369.46 --> 1370.46] To theце -[1370.46 --> 1371.46] The rebellion -[1371.46 --> 1373.46] For none -[1373.46 --> 1376.80] Gracious and loving God, -[1377.62 --> 1380.10] we have opened our hearts -[1380.10 --> 1385.10] so that we are able to admit to you the paradoxes of our lives, -[1385.94 --> 1387.98] that which is beautiful and good -[1387.98 --> 1391.42] and that which is hurtful and sinful. -[1392.76 --> 1397.24] We confess that we do not imitate Jesus in all that we do. -[1398.24 --> 1399.80] Forgive us, we pray. -[1399.80 --> 1408.50] Forgive our sin and empower us to be imitators of Christ in love and service. -[1408.96 --> 1409.58] Amen. -[1412.92 --> 1419.24] Friends in Christ, we have our assurance in knowing this. -[1420.02 --> 1423.32] The mercy of God is from everlasting to everlasting, -[1423.80 --> 1427.08] and we are reminded of his unsurpassing grace. -[1427.08 --> 1430.96] In Jesus Christ, we, we are forgiven. -[1430.96 --> 1457.46] The love of God is greater far than tongue, -[1457.46 --> 1460.64] nor can you never tell. -[1461.00 --> 1464.46] It goes beyond the highest star -[1464.98 --> 1469.36] and reaches to the lowest hell. -[1469.84 --> 1473.76] What guilty pair bowed down with care, -[1474.16 --> 1477.46] God gave his son to win. -[1477.46 --> 1482.58] His erring child, he reconciled, -[1482.58 --> 1487.02] and pardoned from his sin. -[1487.02 --> 1491.06] Lamb of God, how rich and pure, -[1491.38 --> 1495.34] how measureless and strong, -[1495.68 --> 1499.46] he shall forevermore endure -[1499.46 --> 1504.08] the saints and angels' song. -[1504.08 --> 1510.26] When years of time shall pass away, -[1510.26 --> 1514.52] and earthly thrones and kingdoms fall, -[1514.52 --> 1518.80] when men who hear refuse to pray, -[1518.80 --> 1523.06] on rocks and hills and mountains fall, -[1523.44 --> 1527.24] God's love so sure shall endure, -[1527.62 --> 1531.58] all measureless and strong, -[1531.58 --> 1538.58] He shall forevermore endure, -[1538.58 --> 1539.96] the saints and angels' song. -[1539.96 --> 1544.24] O love of God, how rich and pure, -[1544.64 --> 1548.38] how measureless and strong, -[1548.76 --> 1552.40] he shall forevermore endure -[1552.40 --> 1557.50] the saints and angels' song. -[1557.50 --> 1563.18] Could we with ink the ocean fill, -[1563.18 --> 1567.64] and were the skies of parchment made, -[1567.88 --> 1571.80] where every stalk on earth a quail, -[1572.18 --> 1576.18] and every man a scribe I drink, -[1576.56 --> 1580.56] to write the love of God above, -[1580.88 --> 1584.78] would drain the ocean dry, -[1584.78 --> 1587.22] nor can the scroll, -[1587.22 --> 1589.04] nor can the scroll continue hold, -[1589.04 --> 1589.10] nor can the scroll continue hold, -[1589.10 --> 1589.12] nor can the scroll continue hold, -[1589.12 --> 1593.32] the stripes through sky to sky. -[1593.32 --> 1597.54] O love of God, how rich and pure, -[1597.54 --> 1601.82] how measureless and strong, -[1601.82 --> 1605.88] he shall forevermore endure, -[1605.88 --> 1610.32] the saints and angels' song. -[1610.32 --> 1627.84] O love of God,�� -[1628.00 --> 1637.22] that you as a child draw, -[1637.22 --> 1667.20] Thank you. -[1667.22 --> 1688.22] I love you, Lord, and I lift my heart to worship you. -[1688.22 --> 1705.22] All my soul rejoice, take joy, my King, in what you hear. -[1705.22 --> 1717.22] Give me a sweet, sweet sound in your ear. -[1717.22 --> 1735.34] I love you, Lord, and I lift my voice to worship you. -[1735.34 --> 1752.34] All my soul rejoice, take joy, my King, in what you hear. -[1752.34 --> 1762.34] Give me a sweet, sweet sound in your ear. -[1762.34 --> 1768.34] I exalt Thee. -[1768.34 --> 1774.34] I exalt Thee. -[1774.34 --> 1780.34] I exalt Thee. -[1780.34 --> 1792.34] I exalt Thee. -[1792.34 --> 1798.34] I exalt Thee. -[1798.34 --> 1804.34] I exalt Thee. -[1804.34 --> 1810.34] Oh, Lord. -[1810.34 --> 1816.34] I exalt Thee. -[1816.34 --> 1822.34] I exalt Thee. -[1822.34 --> 1827.34] I exalt Thee. -[1827.34 --> 1833.34] Oh, Lord. -[1833.34 --> 1839.34] I exalt Thee. -[1839.34 --> 1845.34] I exalt Thee. -[1845.34 --> 1850.34] I exalt Thee. -[1850.34 --> 1851.34] I exalt Thee. -[1851.34 --> 1855.34] Oh, Lord. -[1855.34 --> 1856.34] I exalt Thee. -[1856.34 --> 1865.34] I exalt Thee. -[1865.34 --> 1866.34] I exalt Thee. -[1866.34 --> 1868.34] I exalt Thee. -[1868.34 --> 1874.24] This morning, as part of our worship, we have the chance to commission, and that means to send with -[1874.24 --> 1880.96] a purpose in the power of the Holy Spirit, a group going to Mexico. Now, I'm going to take this -[1880.96 --> 1885.90] opportunity and just invite that group to come forward. Just come up here, stand along the front -[1885.90 --> 1892.32] here so that everyone can see you in a moment. We'll pray over you and commission you for this -[1892.32 --> 1902.54] work together. So, leaders as well, everyone who's going, come on up. There's a lot of Langley people -[1902.54 --> 1911.50] missing, figures. Way to represent, Vernon. They had five hours to get to church this morning, and they -[1911.50 --> 1924.70] made it. Most of us here already know this, but if you don't, this church has a more than 25-year -[1924.70 --> 1934.24] history of partnering with groups and people down in Tijuana and Rosarito, Mexico, for mission. So, -[1934.30 --> 1940.72] we partner with Jody and Uriel in the work that they do in Rosarito in a men's ministry and a -[1940.72 --> 1947.44] women's ministry out of their church. We partner with Pastor Abelino in the Iglesia de la Rection -[1947.44 --> 1955.94] in East TJ and the work that they do there in the slums of Tijuana, meeting people there. And we have -[1955.94 --> 1961.34] a long history of working with them, and it is a beautiful story of partnership and a beautiful -[1961.34 --> 1969.26] picture, I believe, of the church spanning across the globe and how we have brothers and sisters, -[1969.26 --> 1977.10] family of God in places like Tijuana and Rosarito. And we get to partner with them and serve them. -[1977.66 --> 1984.52] And what's amazing about this is this has always been how God works. God has always used people and -[1984.52 --> 1992.02] sent people around the world to proclaim his gospel message. The message of the gospel of Jesus Christ, -[1992.02 --> 1998.52] who lived, died, and was raised again. The message of the kingdom of God come and the kingdom of God -[1998.52 --> 2009.66] coming. Today, we commission you guys with this mission, with this message. You are sent out with -[2009.66 --> 2018.34] the gospel to make disciples everywhere and to be disciples everywhere. And for those of you heading to -[2018.34 --> 2026.50] Tijuana and to Rosarito for this mission, go with the gospel. Go with the power of God in the Holy Spirit -[2026.50 --> 2034.32] in you and through you. And may God bless your efforts. May he bless your relationships. And may you -[2034.32 --> 2041.36] be blessed to see the fruits of your labors in this work. I'm going to invite Pastor Kevin to come -[2041.36 --> 2051.42] forward. He's going to lead in a prayer. First of all, I'm going to invite you all to stand like about -[2051.42 --> 2057.32] here. So take two big steps forward. And then I'm going to invite any family, friends, elders, anyone -[2057.32 --> 2062.26] who wants to pray over this team to come on up. You can make your way right now. We're going to lay -[2062.26 --> 2067.00] hands on them. If we fill up the front of the church, that is okay. So come on to the front. We're -[2067.00 --> 2070.56] going to lay hands on this team and then we will send them off in prayer. -[2088.56 --> 2089.92] Let us pray. -[2089.92 --> 2099.30] Our Father in heaven, we are grateful for your gospel truth found in your Son, Jesus Christ's life, -[2099.40 --> 2106.56] death, and resurrection. And Lord, as this team of youth, of adults, of young adults heads down to -[2106.56 --> 2112.18] Tijuana in just under two weeks, Lord, we pray that you will be with them as they bring that gospel -[2112.18 --> 2118.70] truth with them. May they be your hands and feet in that community. May they continue to work alongside -[2118.70 --> 2123.90] our friends and family down there like Pastor Abilino, like Pastor Andrew, like Jody and Uriel, -[2124.28 --> 2129.36] with so many other of our missionary friends and pastors, Lord. We pray that they are able to go down -[2129.36 --> 2136.60] to connect to the communities down there and to bring your love and your message of truth to those -[2136.60 --> 2142.40] people. Lord, we thank you for our friends down in Mexico and we pray that you'll continue to be with -[2142.40 --> 2146.66] them as well. Be with this team. Give them what they need. We pray for safety on their travels. -[2146.66 --> 2154.10] We pray for courage as they step out of their comfort zones. We pray for rest as they endure long days, -[2154.22 --> 2159.40] Lord. And we just pray, God, that you continue to support them and walk alongside of them as they do -[2159.40 --> 2166.96] this work. God, may this be a time that is glorifying to you. And we give this over to you in your -[2166.96 --> 2170.62] son's precious and holy name. Amen. Amen. -[2170.62 --> 2170.72] Amen. -[2196.96 --> 2206.70] Good morning. My name is Mike and I am a deacon at this church and I'm also a part of the Mexico -[2206.70 --> 2212.12] team. And today we have a chance to also give financially a little bit more to that trip. So -[2212.12 --> 2217.64] first of all, thank you on behalf of the team for the way this church gives and gives and has -[2217.64 --> 2222.70] supported this ministry for many, many years. And especially for a prayer that has been going on -[2222.70 --> 2228.14] for weeks for this and even just now for that commissioning. And so you heard a little bit -[2228.14 --> 2234.54] about what the team is doing and the makeup of the team. And this trip, one of the kind of bigger -[2234.54 --> 2239.44] outreach projects that the team's going to undertake, there's a couple big ones. One is a kids festival -[2239.44 --> 2246.96] that's going to take place as well as a bit of a Tijuana version of Reactivate. So we're helping host -[2246.96 --> 2254.36] a bit of a conference on a weekend for local teens in a variety of, or from a few churches in the area. -[2254.84 --> 2259.04] So those are kind of two big things we're doing as well as there is a missionary friend we've worked -[2259.04 --> 2264.26] with for years. They are part of a church plant and we'll be doing some work with them upgrading -[2264.26 --> 2271.32] their church facility. So we have that in our budget as kind of some of the ministry outreach stuff that -[2271.32 --> 2276.96] we are still hoping to raise a couple thousand dollars for to facilitate that ministry. So that -[2276.96 --> 2282.72] is what today's offering essentially will go to cover. So thank you for your generosity -[2282.72 --> 2285.12] and thank you for giving with a joyful heart. -[2312.72 --> 2336.66] a song from onslaught -[2336.66 --> 2338.66] with me. -[2339.66 --> 2341.12] The changes -[2341.12 --> 2343.12] come in -[2343.12 --> 2344.78] your passions -[2344.78 --> 2347.28] they fail, Lord. -[2347.92 --> 2348.64] As -[2348.64 --> 2350.66] thou hast me -[2350.66 --> 2352.82] thou forever -[2352.82 --> 2354.72] will be. -[2356.16 --> 2356.90] Where -[2356.90 --> 2358.66] is thy faithfulness? -[2360.24 --> 2360.66] Where -[2360.66 --> 2362.66] is thy faithfulness? -[2364.42 --> 2364.66] Lord, -[2364.66 --> 2366.66] in thy morning -[2367.38 --> 2368.44] new -[2368.44 --> 2370.52] blessings I -[2370.52 --> 2371.52] see. -[2372.52 --> 2374.66] All I have -[2374.66 --> 2376.70] near the -[2376.70 --> 2378.66] earth and the -[2378.66 --> 2379.66] fire, -[2380.86 --> 2382.28] great is -[2382.28 --> 2384.66] the faithfulness -[2384.66 --> 2386.66] glory to -[2386.66 --> 2388.42] me. -[2390.62 --> 2392.16] Summer -[2392.16 --> 2394.60] and winter -[2394.60 --> 2396.60] and springtime -[2396.60 --> 2398.60] and harvest -[2398.60 --> 2400.60] summer -[2400.60 --> 2402.60] and stars -[2402.60 --> 2403.60] in the -[2403.60 --> 2404.60] courses -[2404.60 --> 2405.60] of -[2405.60 --> 2406.60] time. -[2406.60 --> 2408.60] Join -[2408.60 --> 2409.60] with all -[2409.60 --> 2410.60] nature -[2410.60 --> 2411.60] and -[2411.60 --> 2412.60] with all -[2412.60 --> 2413.60] witness. -[2414.46 --> 2416.60] Through the -[2416.60 --> 2417.60] great -[2417.60 --> 2418.60] people's -[2418.60 --> 2420.60] first -[2420.60 --> 2422.60] mercy -[2422.60 --> 2423.60] and love. -[2423.60 --> 2424.60] Great -[2424.60 --> 2426.60] is thy -[2426.60 --> 2428.60] faithfulness, -[2428.60 --> 2429.60] great -[2429.60 --> 2430.60] is thy -[2430.60 --> 2432.60] faithfulness, -[2432.60 --> 2433.60] Lord, in -[2433.60 --> 2434.60] thy -[2434.60 --> 2435.60] glory, -[2435.60 --> 2436.60] through -[2436.60 --> 2437.60] places -[2437.60 --> 2438.60] I see. -[2438.60 --> 2440.60] all -[2440.60 --> 2441.60] I see. -[2441.60 --> 2442.60] All I -[2442.60 --> 2443.60] have -[2443.60 --> 2444.60] need -[2444.60 --> 2445.60] in thy -[2445.60 --> 2446.60] comfort -[2446.60 --> 2447.60] for -[2447.60 --> 2448.60] thy -[2448.60 --> 2449.60] name. -[2449.60 --> 2450.60] Great -[2450.60 --> 2451.60] is -[2451.60 --> 2452.60] the -[2452.60 --> 2453.60] people -[2453.60 --> 2454.60] destroy -[2454.60 --> 2456.60] to me. -[2456.60 --> 2458.60] Lord, in -[2458.60 --> 2459.60] for -[2459.60 --> 2460.60] sin and -[2460.60 --> 2462.60] a -[2462.60 --> 2464.60] peace that -[2464.60 --> 2466.60] endureth, -[2466.60 --> 2468.60] thy -[2468.60 --> 2469.60] own -[2469.60 --> 2470.60] dear -[2470.60 --> 2471.60] presence -[2471.60 --> 2472.60] to -[2472.60 --> 2473.60] cheer -[2473.60 --> 2474.60] and to -[2474.60 --> 2475.60] guide, -[2475.60 --> 2477.60] strength -[2477.60 --> 2478.60] for -[2478.60 --> 2479.60] to -[2479.60 --> 2480.60] day -[2480.60 --> 2481.60] and -[2481.60 --> 2482.60] bright -[2482.60 --> 2483.60] hope -[2483.60 --> 2484.60] for -[2484.60 --> 2486.60] tomorrow. -[2486.60 --> 2487.60] Blessings -[2487.60 --> 2488.60] all -[2488.60 --> 2489.60] by -[2489.60 --> 2490.60] with -[2490.60 --> 2491.60] ten -[2491.60 --> 2492.60] thousand -[2492.60 --> 2493.60] beside. -[2493.60 --> 2494.60] Great -[2494.60 --> 2495.60] is -[2495.60 --> 2496.60] thy -[2496.60 --> 2498.60] faithfulness, -[2498.60 --> 2500.60] great -[2500.60 --> 2501.60] is -[2501.60 --> 2502.60] thy -[2502.60 --> 2503.60] faithfulness, -[2503.60 --> 2505.60] glory -[2505.60 --> 2506.60] by -[2506.60 --> 2507.60] glory -[2507.60 --> 2508.60] through -[2508.60 --> 2509.60] mercies -[2509.60 --> 2510.60] I -[2510.60 --> 2511.60] sing, -[2511.60 --> 2513.60] all -[2513.60 --> 2514.60] I -[2514.60 --> 2515.60] have -[2515.60 --> 2516.60] in -[2516.60 --> 2517.60] thy -[2517.60 --> 2518.60] hand -[2518.60 --> 2519.60] have -[2519.60 --> 2520.60] hold -[2520.60 --> 2521.60] my -[2521.60 --> 2522.60] hope. -[2522.60 --> 2523.60] Great -[2523.60 --> 2524.60] is -[2524.60 --> 2525.60] thy -[2525.60 --> 2526.60] voice -[2526.60 --> 2527.60] brought -[2527.60 --> 2528.60] unto -[2528.60 --> 2529.60] me. -[2533.60 --> 2535.60] I -[2535.60 --> 2537.60] would -[2537.60 --> 2538.60] love -[2538.60 --> 2539.60] to invite -[2539.60 --> 2540.60] all of the -[2540.60 --> 2541.60] kids to come -[2541.60 --> 2542.60] forward and join -[2542.60 --> 2543.60] me up here at the -[2543.60 --> 2544.60] front. -[2544.60 --> 2546.60] That was fast. -[2546.60 --> 2548.60] So fast. -[2553.60 --> 2554.60] Good -[2554.60 --> 2555.60] morning, -[2555.60 --> 2556.60] everybody. -[2558.60 --> 2559.60] Good morning, -[2559.60 --> 2560.60] everyone. -[2560.60 --> 2561.60] Good morning. -[2561.60 --> 2562.60] How are we all doing? -[2562.60 --> 2563.60] I -[2563.60 --> 2564.60] have -[2564.60 --> 2565.60] Hank with me, -[2565.60 --> 2566.60] but he's off to the side. -[2566.60 --> 2567.60] I think you need to shout, -[2567.60 --> 2569.60] come on out, Hank, -[2569.60 --> 2570.60] and then he might join us. -[2570.60 --> 2571.60] Are you ready? One, two, three. -[2571.60 --> 2572.60] Come out, Hank! -[2574.60 --> 2576.60] I think it needs to be a little bit louder than that. -[2577.60 --> 2578.60] One, two, three. -[2578.60 --> 2579.60] Come out, Hank! -[2580.60 --> 2581.60] Ah! -[2582.60 --> 2584.60] Here he is. -[2584.60 --> 2585.60] Hey, kids! -[2586.60 --> 2587.60] Hi, Hank! Hi. -[2587.60 --> 2588.60] Hank! -[2588.60 --> 2591.60] It looks like you were chewing some sort of a sour sock this morning. -[2591.60 --> 2592.60] What's wrong with you? -[2592.60 --> 2594.60] I had a bit of a week. -[2594.60 --> 2595.60] You did? What happened? -[2596.60 --> 2602.60] Well, I was at the park, and there was three fun people over there hanging out. -[2602.60 --> 2606.60] A cat, and a parrot, and a frog. -[2606.60 --> 2608.60] And I went over to say hi. -[2608.60 --> 2609.60] Oh, and then what happened? -[2610.60 --> 2613.60] Well, they said they're part of a cool critter club. -[2613.60 --> 2615.60] But I wasn't allowed. -[2615.60 --> 2616.60] What? -[2616.60 --> 2617.60] Yeah. -[2617.60 --> 2621.60] The cat, whose name was Fergus, said, -[2621.60 --> 2623.60] I can't jump high enough. -[2623.60 --> 2624.60] Oh, really? -[2624.60 --> 2625.60] Yeah. -[2625.60 --> 2628.60] And the parrot, Wingston, said, -[2628.60 --> 2629.60] I can't fly. -[2629.60 --> 2630.60] Oh, no! -[2630.60 --> 2631.60] Yeah! -[2631.60 --> 2635.60] And the frog, Amphibionc, said, -[2635.60 --> 2638.60] that I can't catch flies with my tongue. -[2638.60 --> 2639.60] Oh, no! -[2639.60 --> 2640.60] Yeah! -[2640.60 --> 2641.60] It made me sad. -[2641.60 --> 2643.60] But guess what happened next? -[2643.60 --> 2644.60] What happened next? -[2644.60 --> 2653.60] A squirrel named A. Cornelius lost his chestnut under a rock and asked for help. -[2653.60 --> 2656.60] Well, did those other cats and frogs and parrots help? -[2656.60 --> 2657.60] No. -[2657.60 --> 2660.60] The cat said she didn't want to get her paws dirty. -[2660.60 --> 2663.60] And the parrot said he flies and doesn't really dig. -[2663.60 --> 2671.60] And the frog, Amphibionc, yeah, I remember, he, he, she said that he, she doesn't eat rocks and nuts. -[2671.60 --> 2672.60] She just eats bugs. -[2672.60 --> 2673.60] So what did happen? -[2673.60 --> 2682.60] Well, I went, because I'm a dog, yeah, and I dug up the chestnut for the squirrel and saved the day. -[2682.60 --> 2683.60] Wow, that's really cool. -[2683.60 --> 2685.60] Yeah, and then guess what? -[2685.60 --> 2686.60] What? -[2686.60 --> 2691.60] Well, then the other three critters saw what I did and they wanted to hang out with me and the squirrel. -[2691.60 --> 2693.60] Hank, that's so great. -[2693.60 --> 2694.60] Yeah! -[2694.60 --> 2702.60] You weren't invited into an area, but then you helped someone with kindness and then everyone was invited to hang out. -[2702.60 --> 2703.60] Yeah! -[2703.60 --> 2709.60] Well, in children's worship time, we're going to talk about how Jesus invites everyone to follow him. -[2709.60 --> 2710.60] Wow! -[2710.60 --> 2714.60] What a coincidence that those two stories line up! -[2714.60 --> 2715.60] I know! -[2715.60 --> 2716.60] That's so great! -[2716.60 --> 2721.60] So we're going to take some time and go to children's worship time and talk more about Jesus, okay? -[2721.60 --> 2722.60] Okay! -[2722.60 --> 2726.60] But first, we're going to pray and then we're going to do the Lord's blessing, alright? -[2726.60 --> 2727.60] Alright, let's pray. -[2727.60 --> 2729.60] Father God, thank you so much for this day. -[2729.60 --> 2732.60] Thank you that we could come to church and that we could learn more about you. -[2732.60 --> 2738.60] And be with us as we go to children's worship time and the adults as they stay back here and listen to Pastor Chris. -[2738.60 --> 2742.60] May we all learn more about what it means to follow you in this world. -[2742.60 --> 2743.60] We pray this in your name. -[2743.60 --> 2744.60] Amen. -[2744.60 --> 2745.60] Alright, let's stand up. -[2745.60 --> 2746.60] Oh, oh, oh! -[2746.60 --> 2747.60] Not yet! -[2747.60 --> 2748.60] Not yet! -[2748.60 --> 2749.60] We have to do the blessing together. -[2749.60 --> 2752.60] Okay, we're going to say the Lord be with you all at the same time. -[2752.60 --> 2753.60] Are you ready? -[2753.60 --> 2754.60] One, two, three. -[2754.60 --> 2756.60] The Lord be with you. -[2756.60 --> 2758.60] And also with you. -[2758.60 --> 2772.60] Six years of seminary, ladies and gentlemen. -[2772.60 --> 2782.60] Speaking of six years of seminary, I want to take a moment and invite a friend of mine, -[2782.60 --> 2785.60] a colleague of mine, Susan, up to the front. -[2785.60 --> 2790.60] Susan is the Director of Candidacy in the Christian Reformed Church. -[2790.60 --> 2794.60] And she's here for a classist meeting that we have this coming week. -[2794.60 --> 2800.60] Classist is the word that we use to refer to the regional group of Christian Reformed Churches. -[2800.60 --> 2801.60] We have a meeting next week. -[2801.60 --> 2803.60] Susan's going to help us run a session there. -[2803.60 --> 2812.60] But I asked if she would join us in our worship this morning and then just give us a little bit about what she does and how that's connected to the broader work of our churches together. -[2812.60 --> 2814.60] So, Susan, welcome. -[2814.60 --> 2815.60] Thank you. -[2815.60 --> 2817.60] It should be. -[2817.60 --> 2818.60] Susan, welcome. -[2818.60 --> 2819.60] Yeah. -[2819.60 --> 2820.60] I can't believe I have to go after that. -[2820.60 --> 2825.60] Like the best children's message ever with the best voices and the best puppet. -[2825.60 --> 2826.60] I loved it. -[2826.60 --> 2829.60] But my name is Susan LeClear, as Chris said. -[2829.60 --> 2832.60] And I come to you from Canada's 11th province. -[2832.60 --> 2835.60] I live in Michigan in the United States. -[2835.60 --> 2836.60] And, yeah. -[2836.60 --> 2842.60] I mean, I thought it was a pretty good burn. -[2842.60 --> 2844.60] Deserved. -[2844.60 --> 2846.60] Totally deserved. -[2846.60 --> 2851.60] So, anyway, it's a hard time to be an American and an embarrassing time to be American. -[2851.60 --> 2852.60] But anyway. -[2852.60 --> 2853.60] But here I am. -[2853.60 --> 2860.60] And I work with the, as the candidacy director, I work with the candidacy committee, which is nine people. -[2860.60 --> 2861.60] All volunteer. -[2861.60 --> 2868.60] Wonderful, amazing pastors from around the denomination, United States and Canada, are on this team. -[2868.60 --> 2874.60] And what we do together is oversee the pathways to ordination in the Christian Reformed Church. -[2874.60 --> 2876.60] And it's very fun work. -[2876.60 --> 2877.60] I love my work. -[2877.60 --> 2881.60] I get to show hospitality to new pastors that are coming in. -[2881.60 --> 2886.60] I get to orient them to what the Christian Reformed Church is all about. -[2886.60 --> 2893.60] Advise classist leaders and others about candidacy processes as they come in. -[2893.60 --> 2900.60] And then what we're most known for, probably, is recommending emerging leaders who come through the processes. -[2900.60 --> 2902.60] They finish their seminaries. -[2902.60 --> 2905.60] And then we recommend them to synod for candidacy. -[2905.60 --> 2907.60] So, that's what we do. -[2907.60 --> 2914.60] But it's just the tip of the iceberg of what it means to be involved in the work of candidacy. -[2914.60 --> 2923.60] Your pastor, Chris, is on the CMLT of your classes, which means he works with all these emerging leaders from your area. -[2923.60 --> 2930.60] He helps support them financially and in all kinds of other ways as they come through. -[2930.60 --> 2934.60] And we just so appreciate the work that classist leaders like Chris do. -[2934.60 --> 2943.60] And actually, every single one of you probably is involved in the work of candidacy even more than I am. -[2943.60 --> 2947.60] Because you are the most important part of the process. -[2947.60 --> 2959.60] You're the ones that actually identify leaders and encourage them and pray for them and send them kind of on their way towards ministry in the Christian Reformed Church. -[2959.60 --> 2963.60] So, you've raised up a candidate just recently, Kevin Lobert. -[2963.60 --> 2967.60] We are so excited that he's almost at the end of his candidacy process. -[2967.60 --> 2972.60] And he's almost, he's getting so close to ordination after I think it was eight years in the process. -[2972.60 --> 2975.60] He told me, a long, long time. -[2975.60 --> 2981.60] And so, I just want to see for a minute how many of you have been involved in the work of candidacy for Kevin. -[2981.60 --> 2988.60] How many of you have prayed for him or encouraged him throughout that ten years or so that he's been in this process? -[2988.60 --> 2989.60] Okay. -[2989.60 --> 2991.60] How many of you have said, Kevin, you're really good at that. -[2991.60 --> 2993.60] You should try doing some of this. -[2993.60 --> 2994.60] Anyone? -[2994.60 --> 2995.60] All right. -[2995.60 --> 2998.60] How many of you are parents of Kevin? -[2998.60 --> 3002.60] I had to say that because I sat by the parents of Kevin. -[3002.60 --> 3011.60] So, all along his life and his wife and his kids that have been making big sacrifices for him to invest the time into his studies. -[3011.60 --> 3014.60] So, much work even for the family of candidates. -[3014.60 --> 3016.60] So, I appreciate that. -[3016.60 --> 3019.60] So, you guys are the ones that have done this. -[3019.60 --> 3025.60] And then Josh Chamberlain, I found out, is here also and is also working through his MDiv. -[3025.60 --> 3028.60] And I just talked to his parents this morning, his mom who was up here. -[3028.60 --> 3036.60] So, any of you who have encouraged Josh or identified gifts in Josh or just said, hey, you know what? -[3036.60 --> 3037.60] You should get your MDiv. -[3037.60 --> 3043.60] Any of you here that have done that as well, thank you for the amazing work that you've done in this process. -[3043.60 --> 3048.60] The candidacy committee and me were just like the salt shaker. -[3048.60 --> 3051.60] But you guys are the ones that put the salt in the shaker. -[3051.60 --> 3054.60] And we're so, so thankful that you've done that work. -[3054.60 --> 3061.60] Luke 10 verse 2 says that the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. -[3061.60 --> 3068.60] And so, we're supposed to, Jesus said, pray for the Lord of the harvest to send laborers into his harvest field. -[3068.60 --> 3074.60] And the laborers going into the harvest field, of course, are not just pastors. -[3074.60 --> 3077.60] It's all of these that are going to Mexico. -[3077.60 --> 3083.60] All of you, as you go into your jobs and you're a light and a witness for the kingdom, you're all laborers. -[3083.60 --> 3090.60] But this particular role of laborer, the pastor who's supposed to equip and encourage everybody else, -[3090.60 --> 3094.60] you guys have been really instrumental also in doing that. -[3094.60 --> 3101.60] So, if you would mind joining me in prayer, the candidacy committee has been praying. -[3101.60 --> 3105.60] We set our alarms on our phones for 10-02. -[3105.60 --> 3114.60] And every 10-02 every day, we stop when the alarm goes and we pray for the Lord of the harvest to send laborers into his harvest field. -[3114.60 --> 3115.60] Luke 10-02. -[3115.60 --> 3119.60] So, if any of you want to do that, we would sure love it. -[3119.60 --> 3125.60] And if you would also just continue what you're doing, investing in leaders, encouraging and blessing people. -[3125.60 --> 3130.60] And also, thank you for the ministry shares that you give to the Christian Reformed Church. -[3130.60 --> 3141.60] That's one way that your church can do broader work to equip and help and resource all the other churches that we're in covenant with together. -[3141.60 --> 3144.60] So, thank you, thank you, thank you for your continued faithful support. -[3144.60 --> 3146.60] I'm so thankful for that. -[3146.60 --> 3151.60] Would you mind just joining me in prayer for a minute in that Luke 10-02 prayer? -[3151.60 --> 3155.60] Lord Jesus, you are the Lord of the harvest. -[3155.60 --> 3161.60] Lord, you know that throughout this world, there are people that you're drawing into your kingdom. -[3161.60 --> 3172.60] There's people in our neighborhoods, in our workplaces, in our families, that desperately need to hear that you love them and that Christ has died for them. -[3172.60 --> 3175.60] And that their sins can be forgiven, Lord. -[3175.60 --> 3180.60] There's people just weighed down with the burden of their sin and not knowing what to do with it. -[3180.60 --> 3189.60] So, we pray, Lord, that you would make us those laborers, that you'd open up conversations, help us to see ourselves as missionaries in every place we go. -[3189.60 --> 3207.60] And Lord, we pray also that you'd raise up this specific kind of laborer, these ministers of the gospel that are willing to equip and teach and serve as pastors in churches and maybe plant churches or do other kinds of ministry, full-time ministry work. -[3207.60 --> 3210.60] We do pray that you would continue to raise them up. -[3210.60 --> 3216.60] And Lord, continue to use this congregation as you've been doing to raise up those laborers. -[3216.60 --> 3220.60] I'm so, so thankful for the work that you're doing in them. -[3220.60 --> 3223.60] And we pray all this in Jesus' name. Amen. -[3223.60 --> 3224.60] Good morning. -[3224.60 --> 3225.60] My name is Dave. -[3225.60 --> 3230.60] I am one of the elders for this church. -[3230.60 --> 3247.60] Two announcements before I begin in our church family prayer. -[3247.60 --> 3250.60] Robin Bauman has asked us to announce. -[3250.60 --> 3255.60] Some of us already know this news that Michaela Chamberlain is engaged. -[3255.60 --> 3259.60] So, we'll pray for her and for Caden for many happy years together. -[3259.60 --> 3260.60] And some news. -[3260.60 --> 3263.60] We've been praying for Tessa for a while. -[3263.60 --> 3267.60] She has gone through a battery of tests with more to come this week. -[3267.60 --> 3271.60] B-cell lymphoma has been confirmed, but not the type. -[3271.60 --> 3274.60] So much is yet unknown. -[3274.60 --> 3276.60] We wait for further test results. -[3276.60 --> 3283.60] So, we pray for her, for endurance, for patience, and understanding what the next steps are. -[3283.60 --> 3286.60] Let us pray. -[3286.60 --> 3292.60] The heavens declare the glory of God. -[3292.60 --> 3294.60] The skies proclaim the work of his hands. -[3294.60 --> 3296.60] Day after day, they pour forth speech. -[3296.60 --> 3299.60] Night after night, they reveal knowledge. -[3299.60 --> 3300.60] They have no speech. -[3300.60 --> 3301.60] They use no words. -[3301.60 --> 3303.60] No sound is heard from them. -[3303.60 --> 3305.60] Yet their voice goes out into all the earth. -[3305.60 --> 3308.60] Their words to the ends of the earth. -[3308.60 --> 3311.60] Father, it is very good that we gather on this Lord's Day. -[3311.60 --> 3316.60] It is a time that we join with the church everywhere and rejoice in your name. -[3316.60 --> 3321.60] Father, we confess that even though we focus our thoughts on you each Sunday, -[3321.60 --> 3324.60] our thoughts stray throughout the busyness of the week. -[3324.60 --> 3328.60] We confess that there are things that we have done that we should not have, -[3328.60 --> 3331.60] and things that we should have done but did not. -[3331.60 --> 3336.60] We confess that there are things that we have said and things that we should have said. -[3336.60 --> 3340.60] Father, we feel the same frustration as the Apostle Paul. -[3340.60 --> 3343.60] I do not understand what I do. -[3343.60 --> 3346.60] For what I want to do, I do not do. -[3346.60 --> 3348.60] But what I hate, I do. -[3348.60 --> 3352.60] Father, we thank you that we do not have to feel burdened by our sin. -[3352.60 --> 3357.60] For it has been nailed to the cross, and we don't have to be burdened by it anymore. -[3357.60 --> 3361.60] Father, we come to you because we have so many reasons to be thankful. -[3361.60 --> 3366.60] Not long ago, we had a chance to experience some winter weather and to enjoy your creation. -[3366.60 --> 3369.60] We thank you for the variety of seasons we get to experience. -[3369.60 --> 3372.60] And like that first week of creation, it is very good. -[3372.60 --> 3375.60] We thank you for this church family and everyone who has gathered here. -[3375.60 --> 3377.60] We thank you for the leadership of this church. -[3377.60 --> 3389.60] For Chris, for Kevin, for Josh, for members of council. -[3389.60 --> 3396.60] We pray for Kevin as he is finishing off his work and completing the steps in need for candidacy. -[3396.60 --> 3400.60] We pray that all of that will fall into place and go very well. -[3400.60 --> 3403.60] We pray for the many ministries of this church. -[3403.60 --> 3409.60] We ask that you bless the work that they do, that they may meet the spiritual and physical needs that we see around us. -[3409.60 --> 3413.60] We thank you that we had the opportunity to commission our Mexico missions team. -[3413.60 --> 3417.60] We thank you that so much organization and funding has fallen into place. -[3417.60 --> 3420.60] We pray that everything about this trip will go very well. -[3420.60 --> 3426.60] That they will be able to be an effective witness to the people around them. -[3426.60 --> 3431.60] Father, as a church community, we thank you the joys and needs that we have. -[3431.60 --> 3435.60] We pray for Ann Marie Van Muen who will have open heart surgery. -[3435.60 --> 3438.60] Be with the healthcare professionals who will be taking care of her. -[3438.60 --> 3440.60] And we pray for her recovery. -[3440.60 --> 3444.60] We thank you that Lena Chepkama's health is improving. -[3444.60 --> 3447.60] We pray that she will be able to go home soon. -[3447.60 --> 3455.60] We pray for John Van Bergkijk who has been diagnosed with non-invasive bladder cancer and is expecting treatment soon. -[3455.60 --> 3458.60] We pray for your healing and for your peace. -[3458.60 --> 3461.60] Father, we pray for Tessa. -[3461.60 --> 3468.60] We hear the news that she is experiencing B-cell lymphoma and there are more tests to come. -[3468.60 --> 3476.60] Father, we pray that these tests will give more knowledge and more insight about her condition and what may happen next. -[3476.60 --> 3478.60] We pray for patience. -[3478.60 --> 3480.60] We pray for endurance. -[3480.60 --> 3485.60] We pray for all of her family and her friends who must walk with her on this difficult journey. -[3485.60 --> 3494.60] We pray for Amanda Hogawone's sister and Klaus Tessamacher's daughter, Tanya, who are experiencing stage 4 cancer. -[3494.60 --> 3501.60] We pray that they, their families, may feel your comfort, peace, healing, and hope. -[3501.60 --> 3506.60] We pray for those who are struggling with addictions, both physical and psychological. -[3506.60 --> 3512.60] We pray for families who have been impacted, that they may be able to make good decisions and feel your strength. -[3512.60 --> 3517.60] Father, we pray for those who struggle with their mental health and find winter difficult. -[3517.60 --> 3521.60] We pray for those who need relief for their depression and anxiety. -[3521.60 --> 3525.60] Father, we thank you for the good news about Michaela's engagement to Caden. -[3525.60 --> 3531.60] We pray that with all the work and busyness of planning for our wedding, that it will be a good time to celebrate, -[3531.60 --> 3536.60] but more importantly, that it will be a start to a very long and happy life together. -[3536.60 --> 3545.60] And Father, we pray for Pastor Chris as he leads us again in the study of your word, as revealed to Paul's letter to the Thessalonians. -[3545.60 --> 3550.60] We pray that the message of love and a quiet life is one that will reach each of us. -[3550.60 --> 3556.60] Father, may these words of our mouths and the meditation of our hearts be pleasing in your sight. -[3556.60 --> 3559.60] O Lord, our rock and our redeemer. -[3559.60 --> 3560.60] Come Lord Jesus. -[3560.60 --> 3561.60] Amen. -[3566.60 --> 3584.60] We here at Emmanuel are in the middle of a series in the books of Thessalonians. -[3584.60 --> 3593.60] We're going to continue our close look at Thessalonians this morning by reading together from 1 Thessalonians 4, verse 9 through 12. -[3593.60 --> 3596.60] The first time through, it will be on the screen behind me. -[3596.60 --> 3604.60] But of course, I encourage you to open up a Bible or have your device and your Bible app turned to 1 Thessalonians 4. -[3604.60 --> 3608.60] If you'd like a Bible to hold on to, there's some at the back in the little ladder shelves there. -[3608.60 --> 3610.60] You can grab one of those. -[3610.60 --> 3615.60] Let's start by reading together this text from 1 Thessalonians 4. -[3615.60 --> 3618.60] We'll begin at verse 9. -[3618.60 --> 3637.60] In verses 10, verse 10 through 7, verse 10. -[3637.60 --> 3656.50] This is the word of the Lord. -[3662.50 --> 3665.02] So I wonder if you'll permit me. -[3665.02 --> 3670.32] Let's do a little bit of a survey here, a question for you. -[3671.22 --> 3673.92] And when I ask you a question, I'm inviting you to give a response. -[3674.50 --> 3677.74] Okay, this is not one of those passive moments where the pastor talks at you. -[3678.58 --> 3678.96] Together. -[3680.44 --> 3684.02] Who is the backbone of the church? -[3686.84 --> 3687.24] Jesus. -[3687.44 --> 3688.86] I'm glad we started with that one. -[3688.94 --> 3692.04] That's, of course, the absolutely right answer. -[3692.04 --> 3694.34] But how does Jesus make himself known among us? -[3694.34 --> 3696.16] Who's the backbone of the church? -[3698.10 --> 3698.62] Sorry? -[3699.46 --> 3700.36] His people. -[3700.56 --> 3700.80] Okay. -[3701.36 --> 3703.40] Let's get a little bit more specific. -[3705.76 --> 3708.68] Without whom would the ministry of the church not happen? -[3709.82 --> 3710.90] The Holy Spirit. -[3711.02 --> 3713.22] Oh, see, you guys are even better than I thought. -[3713.28 --> 3713.54] Okay. -[3714.08 --> 3714.58] Keep going. -[3716.26 --> 3717.68] Josh Chamberlain. -[3718.42 --> 3718.94] Excellent. -[3718.94 --> 3719.22] Excellent. -[3720.40 --> 3723.18] Yeah, there's about 3% for whom that is true. -[3724.34 --> 3725.54] Okay. -[3725.64 --> 3726.22] Anyone else? -[3728.78 --> 3729.18] Pastor. -[3729.34 --> 3729.76] Thanks, Mom. -[3732.74 --> 3733.72] Yeah, pastor. -[3733.90 --> 3734.84] That's unanswered. -[3734.90 --> 3736.64] But I don't think that's the answer I'm looking for. -[3737.76 --> 3738.52] The people. -[3738.86 --> 3739.70] What about the people? -[3741.16 --> 3741.32] Sorry. -[3742.48 --> 3743.26] Sheila, did you? -[3743.88 --> 3744.78] No, not there. -[3744.94 --> 3745.82] Someone back there then. -[3746.66 --> 3747.38] Sheila was terrified. -[3747.52 --> 3748.06] I called on her. -[3749.24 --> 3749.54] Sorry? -[3749.54 --> 3749.62] Sorry? -[3749.62 --> 3750.80] The Bible study group. -[3750.80 --> 3752.48] The Bible study group. -[3752.62 --> 3753.10] All right. -[3753.16 --> 3753.42] All right. -[3753.48 --> 3754.12] We're getting there. -[3756.12 --> 3756.72] Counsel. -[3757.62 --> 3758.74] Oh, man. -[3758.82 --> 3760.76] There's a guy who understands ecclesiology. -[3761.28 --> 3761.98] But no. -[3763.42 --> 3764.40] Each of us. -[3764.50 --> 3765.04] Thank you. -[3765.94 --> 3766.78] Each of us. -[3766.96 --> 3768.44] Here's what I want to suggest to you. -[3768.44 --> 3777.72] The backbone of this church and of any church are the people who quietly serve without title, -[3778.42 --> 3780.72] without fanfare, without reward. -[3780.72 --> 3785.00] I get thanked all the time. -[3786.00 --> 3787.44] And I'm grateful for your gratitude. -[3788.90 --> 3792.92] But it is the people who make coffee on Sunday. -[3794.42 --> 3795.54] And sometimes it's okay. -[3797.32 --> 3799.12] That feed the life of this church. -[3800.10 --> 3805.58] It's the people who come in the middle of the week to tidy up a room without being asked. -[3805.58 --> 3811.22] It's the people who serve on this committee or that committee, like the finance committee, -[3811.76 --> 3814.78] and just do so for years and years and years. -[3815.74 --> 3821.66] The people who quietly serve without any recognition or reward. -[3821.96 --> 3828.58] Without them, this church wouldn't function at near the capacity it does. -[3829.38 --> 3831.16] And so, yeah, Josh, he's awesome. -[3831.16 --> 3841.32] But he needs all y'all to do the work of the church so that we can do and be who God is calling us to be. -[3843.20 --> 3848.00] But it's really hard, isn't it, to be an unsung servant. -[3849.30 --> 3855.98] It's really hard to quietly persist in the work that God has called you to do. -[3855.98 --> 3864.30] And yet, some of the greatest testimonies of God's love for his church have been shown to me -[3864.30 --> 3868.26] by the people who serve it without asking for a thank you. -[3869.12 --> 3874.62] By the people who serve it without looking for recognition and who just do it. -[3875.82 --> 3878.76] And so for you who serve, thank you. -[3879.40 --> 3884.64] For you who live in this way and serve in this church and the broader church, thank you. -[3884.64 --> 3892.06] You are an example for us of what I believe this text is showing us mission looks like. -[3893.18 --> 3898.58] The banner that I want to operate under this morning, the big idea for us, -[3898.70 --> 3906.80] is that loving others and living quietly are compelling acts of mission in the world. -[3906.80 --> 3912.74] Now this is sort of a part two from a message that we began two weeks ago. -[3913.24 --> 3916.74] Last week, Pastor Kevin led us in our Cadet Sunday service, -[3916.74 --> 3919.58] so we took a little interlude from our look at Thessalonians. -[3919.88 --> 3925.68] But we're picking up after the first part of chapter four, where we looked at verses one through eight. -[3926.26 --> 3929.78] And if your Bibles are open, you'll see really quickly that in some sense, -[3929.78 --> 3935.54] the first part presents a sort of negative example, something that we should avoid, -[3935.74 --> 3937.28] something that we should flee from. -[3937.76 --> 3942.88] And the second part, where we are today, is kind of a positive example. -[3943.00 --> 3944.56] That is something we should run towards. -[3944.92 --> 3947.88] A way of being in the world that we should strive after. -[3949.18 --> 3957.12] Paul explains that striving towards the way we should be in the world as loving one another. -[3957.12 --> 3961.66] Right? He says, you yourselves have been taught by God to love each other. -[3962.12 --> 3966.14] And in fact, you love all of God's family throughout Macedonia. -[3967.36 --> 3973.02] In this kind of love for one another, for Christians around the world, -[3973.14 --> 3979.14] this kind of love for one another that we see on display here so often and so regularly, -[3979.40 --> 3981.90] that's what we are called to grow in. -[3982.48 --> 3983.74] Right? Paul says in verse 10, -[3983.74 --> 4000.36] And if you recall, that more and more ties this section with the previous section that we looked at. -[4000.62 --> 4002.32] Right? We looked at it two weeks ago. -[4002.42 --> 4003.68] Verse one says, -[4003.68 --> 4021.62] The first part that we looked at a couple weeks ago is our service and love and worship of God. -[4021.86 --> 4027.14] And the second part, where we're looking today, is our service and love for others. -[4027.14 --> 4032.06] And keep those two parts in mind because we'll return to that idea in a moment. -[4032.34 --> 4037.72] To begin, I want to jump in and look at that phrase from the beginning there, -[4037.78 --> 4039.88] that phrase, taught by God. -[4040.92 --> 4042.10] Right? Paul says, -[4042.26 --> 4045.78] You yourselves have been taught by God to love each other. -[4047.42 --> 4051.98] That phrase, taught by God, is from the Old Testament prophets. -[4051.98 --> 4058.68] And it was used to talk about the kingdom of God and the restoration of God's chosen people. -[4059.34 --> 4064.66] For example, Isaiah writes some 800 years before Paul and before Jesus. -[4064.92 --> 4067.48] He writes in Isaiah 54, 13, -[4068.16 --> 4072.66] All your children will be taught by the Lord and great will be their peace. -[4073.72 --> 4077.90] In the prophet Micah, this vision of the kingdom is expanded even further. -[4077.90 --> 4079.18] Micah says, -[4079.18 --> 4081.30] Many nations will come and will say, -[4081.80 --> 4086.00] Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the temple of the God of Jacob. -[4086.28 --> 4091.26] He will teach us his ways so that we may walk in his paths. -[4092.84 --> 4098.50] Taught by God is a particular new covenant language. -[4099.18 --> 4106.36] It's language that has been fueling the hope of redemption and salvation of God's people for centuries. -[4106.36 --> 4109.62] That's what we mean when we say new covenant language. -[4109.96 --> 4113.12] And Paul's use of it here is a way of saying, -[4113.62 --> 4114.48] This is happening. -[4115.20 --> 4116.56] This is being fulfilled. -[4117.56 --> 4118.02] Right? -[4118.06 --> 4121.26] You have this predominantly Greek church in Thessalonica -[4121.26 --> 4126.88] being shown to be part of the fulfillment of God's covenant plan for the whole world. -[4128.20 --> 4131.06] Now, that is already pretty cool, I think. -[4131.82 --> 4132.94] But there's more. -[4132.94 --> 4137.94] Because Jesus uses this same new covenant language. -[4138.94 --> 4139.16] Right? -[4139.24 --> 4140.32] Being taught by God. -[4140.70 --> 4143.10] And he applies it to himself and to his teaching. -[4144.14 --> 4145.30] Look at John 6. -[4146.06 --> 4146.88] John 6. -[4147.58 --> 4148.38] Jesus says, -[4148.54 --> 4149.86] It's written in the prophets. -[4150.06 --> 4151.42] They will be taught by God. -[4151.82 --> 4152.62] Now, we can say, -[4152.74 --> 4153.72] Yes, we know that. -[4153.80 --> 4154.58] We heard that. -[4154.64 --> 4155.48] We've seen it in Isaiah. -[4155.62 --> 4156.36] We've seen it in Micah. -[4156.44 --> 4157.64] It also appears in Jeremiah. -[4157.90 --> 4159.98] For the keener students among us this morning. -[4159.98 --> 4162.08] They will be taught by God. -[4162.30 --> 4162.86] Jesus says, -[4163.26 --> 4167.24] Everyone who has heard the Father and learned from him comes to me. -[4168.16 --> 4171.34] No one has seen the Father except the one who is from God. -[4171.68 --> 4173.68] Only he has seen the Father. -[4174.96 --> 4177.04] Effectively, Jesus is saying, -[4177.46 --> 4179.74] God's teaching, the Father's teaching, -[4179.88 --> 4182.54] and my teaching are one and the same thing. -[4182.54 --> 4185.38] This is Jesus saying, -[4186.02 --> 4189.48] If you are taught by me, -[4189.72 --> 4191.06] you're taught by God. -[4191.86 --> 4195.38] It's a similar thing to what Jesus says in John 10, verse 30, -[4195.58 --> 4196.16] where he says, -[4196.26 --> 4197.86] I and the Father are one. -[4199.54 --> 4202.06] And so here in Thessalonians, in our letter, -[4202.20 --> 4207.12] you have new covenant language about the redemption reality being for all people, -[4207.22 --> 4209.38] for every tribe, tongue, and nation, -[4209.38 --> 4214.08] because of the redemption reality of Jesus being God -[4214.08 --> 4218.56] and showing us what the covenant of grace was always already about. -[4219.26 --> 4220.90] Showing us, right, -[4221.02 --> 4224.58] Jesus accomplishing in our place what we could never do. -[4225.96 --> 4227.84] Not only because he is man, -[4228.00 --> 4231.26] but precisely because he is God. -[4231.80 --> 4234.68] The Father and I are one, says Jesus. -[4234.68 --> 4237.94] Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. -[4238.40 --> 4241.84] My teachings are the teachings of God. -[4243.08 --> 4246.68] Which again, I think, is already so cool. -[4247.68 --> 4248.78] But can you guess it? -[4249.86 --> 4251.00] There's still more. -[4251.72 --> 4252.70] This goes even further. -[4253.70 --> 4256.38] In 1 John 2, verse 27, we read, -[4256.38 --> 4259.52] His anointing teaches you about all things, -[4259.64 --> 4262.76] and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit, -[4263.20 --> 4266.66] just as he taught you, remain in him. -[4268.24 --> 4270.20] So in context, right, -[4270.26 --> 4275.54] his anointing refers to Jesus anointing those who would believe -[4275.54 --> 4278.12] that he is the Christ and that he comes from the Father. -[4279.12 --> 4280.62] The question remains, right, -[4280.62 --> 4285.96] who or what is doing this anointing? -[4286.58 --> 4289.94] Now that answer comes in verse 20 in 1 John, -[4290.10 --> 4290.84] where we read, -[4291.02 --> 4294.00] You have an anointing from the Holy One. -[4295.38 --> 4298.64] The use of anointing language and Holy One -[4298.64 --> 4302.18] tells us that John is referencing the work of the Holy Spirit. -[4303.82 --> 4306.24] And so, to be taught by God, -[4306.70 --> 4309.02] as Paul says the Thessalonians have been, -[4309.02 --> 4313.08] is, one, the application of new covenant promises. -[4314.04 --> 4317.78] It's, two, fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ. -[4318.02 --> 4320.82] And, three, it is applied by the Holy Spirit -[4320.82 --> 4324.94] to those who genuinely believe and remain in him. -[4325.10 --> 4327.86] In short, this is about who we are. -[4328.98 --> 4330.78] That's why I think this is so cool, -[4331.38 --> 4332.64] why this matters so much, -[4332.64 --> 4334.22] because about who we are, -[4334.24 --> 4338.14] and who we are is directly connected to who God is. -[4339.02 --> 4343.34] Right, to be taught by God isn't just about ideas or ideals. -[4344.04 --> 4345.64] Now, it includes that, to be sure, -[4345.72 --> 4346.66] but there's so much more. -[4346.98 --> 4349.08] To be taught by God is to be connected -[4349.08 --> 4352.06] to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. -[4352.68 --> 4354.70] To be taught by God is to be part of -[4354.70 --> 4357.02] his new covenant relationship to humanity -[4357.02 --> 4358.20] and to the world. -[4358.28 --> 4361.12] To be taught by God is about your union with Christ, -[4361.60 --> 4362.84] transforming who you are -[4362.84 --> 4364.32] and how you show up in the world. -[4364.32 --> 4366.48] And that is really cool. -[4367.92 --> 4369.80] That's just three words from our text. -[4369.90 --> 4371.60] Can you imagine how long this sermon's going to be? -[4372.98 --> 4374.86] Actually, in Greek, it's just one word. -[4376.86 --> 4377.38] Theodidaktos. -[4378.02 --> 4378.92] Taught by God. -[4380.44 --> 4381.52] That's who you are. -[4381.52 --> 4385.40] That's who you are. -[4387.30 --> 4388.50] And this matters, -[4388.74 --> 4390.32] not just because it's cool -[4390.32 --> 4392.12] if you're a nerd word like I am. -[4392.70 --> 4394.74] This matters because of what it means -[4394.74 --> 4396.64] and what follows from it. -[4397.40 --> 4400.94] What really has come before -[4400.94 --> 4402.58] and transformed you, -[4402.88 --> 4404.34] what has grounded you -[4404.34 --> 4407.58] in your identity in Jesus Christ. -[4407.58 --> 4412.90] Who you are transforms your very nature. -[4415.42 --> 4417.14] The Bible tells us -[4417.14 --> 4418.72] that in Christ, -[4419.12 --> 4420.62] you are a new creation. -[4422.38 --> 4424.10] And that the calls to obedience -[4424.10 --> 4426.72] that we experience in this life -[4426.72 --> 4430.38] aren't given in order to accomplish this new life, -[4430.48 --> 4433.18] but because Christ has accomplished it for us. -[4433.58 --> 4434.56] That order matters. -[4435.56 --> 4437.50] We're not trying to achieve redemption. -[4438.04 --> 4441.68] Rather, redemption is something we receive from God. -[4442.96 --> 4445.14] A relationship with a living God -[4445.14 --> 4446.78] by the life, death, resurrection, -[4446.92 --> 4448.06] and exaltation of Jesus -[4448.06 --> 4449.34] applied to you -[4449.34 --> 4450.92] through the working of the Holy Spirit -[4450.92 --> 4453.34] in your heart and through your life -[4453.34 --> 4455.72] is the ground of your identity. -[4457.10 --> 4460.28] A real, living covenant with God -[4460.28 --> 4462.26] defines who you are. -[4463.54 --> 4464.16] And hear this. -[4465.16 --> 4465.96] This God, -[4466.56 --> 4467.74] in classical terms, -[4467.82 --> 4468.56] in theology terms, -[4468.64 --> 4469.48] is immutable. -[4470.52 --> 4472.00] It means he is unchanging. -[4472.42 --> 4473.60] He does not change. -[4473.72 --> 4475.18] Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, -[4475.36 --> 4476.76] today, and forever. -[4478.20 --> 4480.54] And because God is unchanging, -[4481.12 --> 4482.36] that means, right, -[4482.46 --> 4483.14] what you do -[4483.14 --> 4485.10] and your relationship to him -[4485.10 --> 4487.44] is ultimately unchangeable. -[4487.44 --> 4489.86] as you have this security -[4489.86 --> 4492.50] because it's rooted in the very character, -[4493.04 --> 4494.90] the very being of who God is. -[4494.90 --> 4497.82] What God has genuinely done in you -[4497.82 --> 4499.22] cannot be undone. -[4501.22 --> 4501.86] Now, -[4502.58 --> 4504.74] this is where I need you to lean in -[4504.74 --> 4506.82] and I need you to hear this. -[4506.82 --> 4510.08] This is the beauty -[4510.08 --> 4511.76] of the gospel reality. -[4514.00 --> 4514.76] And especially, -[4515.04 --> 4515.26] maybe, -[4515.46 --> 4516.74] if you're young. -[4517.50 --> 4517.62] Right? -[4517.66 --> 4519.36] Maybe some of you are teenagers. -[4519.94 --> 4520.02] Right? -[4520.06 --> 4521.52] So much of your life right now -[4521.52 --> 4522.82] is about figuring out -[4522.82 --> 4523.62] who you are. -[4524.78 --> 4526.64] About what it means to be you -[4526.64 --> 4527.74] in this moment, -[4527.94 --> 4528.66] in this life. -[4528.94 --> 4530.10] And developmentally, -[4530.26 --> 4531.06] that tracks. -[4531.58 --> 4531.72] Right? -[4532.06 --> 4532.54] Developmentally, -[4532.94 --> 4534.46] teenagers are trying on -[4534.46 --> 4535.48] different identities, -[4536.06 --> 4536.90] different relationships -[4536.90 --> 4537.60] to the world. -[4538.10 --> 4538.44] That's why, -[4538.54 --> 4539.52] if you parent a teenager, -[4539.68 --> 4540.36] sometimes you're like, -[4540.46 --> 4541.20] who are you? -[4541.44 --> 4542.62] Who is this kid? -[4543.36 --> 4544.30] Where's my nice, -[4544.58 --> 4546.16] pleasant daughter? -[4546.94 --> 4547.10] Well, -[4547.10 --> 4548.06] she's trying on something new. -[4548.26 --> 4548.98] I'm not talking about -[4548.98 --> 4549.80] personal experience here, -[4549.86 --> 4550.02] okay? -[4550.06 --> 4550.64] Don't tell Nora. -[4552.32 --> 4553.36] But this is normal. -[4553.46 --> 4554.66] This is what happens. -[4555.04 --> 4555.16] Right? -[4555.24 --> 4556.42] You're trying to figure out -[4556.42 --> 4557.40] who you are -[4557.40 --> 4558.44] and what feels right. -[4559.48 --> 4560.14] One week, -[4560.20 --> 4561.10] you're really into anime. -[4561.44 --> 4562.20] The next week, -[4562.26 --> 4563.72] you want to be a river surfer. -[4565.18 --> 4565.44] See, -[4565.50 --> 4566.68] someone sees a logical connection -[4566.68 --> 4567.30] between those two -[4567.30 --> 4567.94] because I didn't. -[4569.38 --> 4569.54] Right? -[4570.18 --> 4571.60] Even as that's happening -[4571.60 --> 4572.32] in your life, -[4572.42 --> 4574.38] there's no more secure foundation -[4574.38 --> 4576.02] for you to enter into -[4576.02 --> 4577.32] that situation -[4577.32 --> 4578.44] and to try to figure -[4578.44 --> 4579.22] all that out -[4579.22 --> 4580.80] than on the one -[4580.80 --> 4582.12] that undergirds it all, -[4582.24 --> 4583.06] Christ Jesus. -[4584.74 --> 4584.94] Now, -[4585.00 --> 4585.64] this is also true -[4585.64 --> 4586.20] for those of us -[4586.20 --> 4587.04] who are a little bit older. -[4587.78 --> 4587.98] Right? -[4587.98 --> 4588.96] Maybe in terms of -[4588.96 --> 4590.14] a major transition -[4590.14 --> 4591.08] in your life. -[4591.80 --> 4592.70] Maybe you're finishing -[4592.70 --> 4593.24] university -[4593.24 --> 4594.44] and you're wondering -[4594.44 --> 4595.06] what's next. -[4595.82 --> 4596.84] Maybe you've decided -[4596.84 --> 4597.62] to quit a job -[4597.62 --> 4598.10] that you've had -[4598.10 --> 4598.82] for 10 years -[4598.82 --> 4599.44] or 20 years -[4599.44 --> 4600.44] and you've got -[4600.44 --> 4601.08] no idea -[4601.08 --> 4602.10] what's coming up next. -[4603.42 --> 4603.78] Right? -[4603.82 --> 4604.44] You've got to reinvent -[4604.44 --> 4605.38] your entire life, -[4606.04 --> 4606.88] your social groups -[4606.88 --> 4608.02] and the like. -[4609.08 --> 4610.62] Maybe you're a little bit older -[4610.62 --> 4611.12] and your kids -[4611.12 --> 4612.16] are moving out this year -[4612.16 --> 4614.76] and you have no idea -[4614.76 --> 4616.12] how marriage -[4616.12 --> 4617.12] to that man -[4617.12 --> 4617.82] or that woman -[4617.82 --> 4618.76] is going to be -[4618.76 --> 4619.64] without a buffer -[4619.64 --> 4620.92] of those teenagers -[4620.92 --> 4621.46] in your house. -[4623.42 --> 4624.34] Maybe retirement -[4624.34 --> 4624.96] is approaching -[4624.96 --> 4626.50] and you don't know -[4626.50 --> 4626.90] what that's going -[4626.90 --> 4627.46] to mean for you. -[4628.12 --> 4629.02] Who are you -[4629.02 --> 4630.44] apart from your work? -[4631.86 --> 4632.00] Right? -[4632.00 --> 4632.96] The same is true here. -[4633.84 --> 4635.28] There is no stronger -[4635.28 --> 4636.06] foundation -[4636.06 --> 4637.32] into which -[4637.32 --> 4638.16] we can enter -[4638.16 --> 4639.14] the chaoses -[4639.14 --> 4640.34] of these transitions -[4640.34 --> 4641.84] than our fixed, -[4642.28 --> 4642.48] rooted, -[4642.76 --> 4643.48] and immutable -[4643.48 --> 4644.24] identity -[4644.24 --> 4645.70] in Jesus Christ. -[4646.70 --> 4647.70] There is nothing -[4647.70 --> 4648.78] that can separate you -[4648.78 --> 4649.70] from the love of God -[4649.70 --> 4650.38] that is available -[4650.38 --> 4651.54] in Christ Jesus -[4651.54 --> 4652.06] our Lord. -[4652.34 --> 4654.64] This is who you are -[4654.64 --> 4655.58] and someone needs -[4655.58 --> 4656.16] to say amen. -[4658.00 --> 4659.48] This is part of what it means -[4659.48 --> 4660.62] to be taught by God. -[4662.86 --> 4663.98] But at this point, -[4664.76 --> 4665.50] it won't surprise you -[4665.50 --> 4665.86] to learn -[4665.86 --> 4667.46] there's still more. -[4668.56 --> 4669.70] There's still more awesome -[4669.70 --> 4671.58] in this text. -[4672.78 --> 4674.20] The Old Testament prophets -[4674.20 --> 4675.76] say of the new covenant -[4675.76 --> 4677.64] that the law of God -[4677.64 --> 4678.24] will be written -[4678.24 --> 4680.12] on your hearts. -[4681.16 --> 4682.30] Jesus says effectively -[4682.30 --> 4683.28] the same thing, right? -[4683.32 --> 4684.64] He summarizes the law -[4684.64 --> 4685.60] by saying -[4685.60 --> 4686.72] the first and greatest -[4686.72 --> 4687.58] commandment is this, -[4687.66 --> 4688.88] to love the Lord your God -[4688.88 --> 4689.42] with all your heart, -[4689.50 --> 4689.94] with all your soul, -[4690.02 --> 4690.54] with all your mind, -[4690.58 --> 4691.26] and with all your strength. -[4691.70 --> 4693.70] And the second is like it, -[4693.76 --> 4694.84] to love your neighbor -[4694.84 --> 4696.18] as yourself. -[4699.00 --> 4699.96] Jesus says again, -[4701.08 --> 4701.80] a new command -[4701.80 --> 4703.20] I give you -[4703.20 --> 4704.54] that you love -[4704.54 --> 4705.56] one another. -[4706.36 --> 4707.04] By this, -[4707.48 --> 4708.40] they will know -[4708.40 --> 4709.96] that you are my disciples -[4709.96 --> 4710.92] if you love -[4710.92 --> 4712.02] one another. -[4713.56 --> 4713.94] And again, -[4714.02 --> 4715.26] in 1 John 3, -[4715.46 --> 4715.86] we read, -[4716.22 --> 4717.06] this is the message -[4717.06 --> 4718.06] you heard from the beginning. -[4718.26 --> 4719.00] We should love -[4719.00 --> 4719.90] one another. -[4720.12 --> 4721.32] This is the command -[4721.32 --> 4722.04] to believe -[4722.04 --> 4722.76] in the name -[4722.76 --> 4723.32] of his Son, -[4723.40 --> 4723.98] Jesus Christ, -[4724.12 --> 4725.02] and to love -[4725.02 --> 4725.56] one another -[4725.56 --> 4727.52] as he had commanded us. -[4728.46 --> 4729.34] This whole section -[4729.34 --> 4729.80] of text -[4729.80 --> 4730.80] is under the banner -[4730.80 --> 4731.52] of loving -[4731.52 --> 4732.28] one another. -[4732.36 --> 4732.80] It begins, -[4732.94 --> 4733.10] right? -[4733.16 --> 4733.66] We look at it -[4733.66 --> 4734.16] in verse 9, -[4734.44 --> 4735.64] now about your love -[4735.64 --> 4736.52] for one another. -[4737.72 --> 4738.26] And in Greek, -[4738.36 --> 4738.82] it's a little bit -[4738.82 --> 4740.36] more particular there. -[4740.54 --> 4740.78] It says, -[4741.08 --> 4742.46] now about Philadelphia. -[4744.14 --> 4746.34] Now about brotherly love. -[4748.14 --> 4748.76] Now interestingly, -[4749.14 --> 4749.60] that word, -[4749.74 --> 4750.20] Philadelphia, -[4750.70 --> 4752.34] is used only a handful -[4752.34 --> 4752.90] of times -[4752.90 --> 4754.04] outside of the Bible, -[4754.04 --> 4756.26] but it is always used -[4756.26 --> 4757.64] outside of the Bible -[4757.64 --> 4758.24] in reference -[4758.24 --> 4759.20] to families -[4759.20 --> 4761.52] and the love -[4761.52 --> 4762.64] that someone has -[4762.64 --> 4764.42] for their family. -[4765.46 --> 4765.98] Now family -[4765.98 --> 4767.14] was defined -[4767.14 --> 4767.94] a little bit bigger -[4767.94 --> 4768.90] in the ancient world -[4768.90 --> 4770.28] than our nuclear family -[4770.28 --> 4771.72] with 2.3 kids. -[4772.32 --> 4773.38] It included -[4773.38 --> 4774.62] in-laws -[4774.62 --> 4775.52] and out-laws -[4775.52 --> 4776.34] and in some cases -[4776.34 --> 4777.32] included slaves -[4777.32 --> 4778.04] and the like. -[4778.82 --> 4779.62] But the way -[4779.62 --> 4780.84] Paul is using it -[4780.84 --> 4781.92] is even bigger -[4781.92 --> 4782.52] and broader -[4782.52 --> 4783.50] than that. -[4784.56 --> 4785.32] The gospel -[4785.32 --> 4787.64] redefines family. -[4788.96 --> 4789.80] Jesus asks, -[4790.00 --> 4790.84] who are my mother -[4790.84 --> 4791.52] and my brothers? -[4792.46 --> 4792.86] And he says, -[4792.96 --> 4794.08] those who do the will -[4794.08 --> 4795.40] of my Father in heaven -[4795.40 --> 4796.64] are my mother -[4796.64 --> 4797.68] and brothers. -[4798.52 --> 4799.56] And we read about it again -[4799.56 --> 4800.12] over and over -[4800.12 --> 4800.58] in Romans -[4800.58 --> 4801.44] and in Galatians -[4801.44 --> 4802.34] and in Ephesians. -[4802.78 --> 4803.72] We hear about -[4803.72 --> 4804.40] our adoption -[4804.40 --> 4806.04] to sonship. -[4807.10 --> 4807.58] Where we read -[4807.58 --> 4808.54] that we are now -[4808.54 --> 4810.76] all sons of God -[4810.76 --> 4812.42] and if we're sons of God -[4812.42 --> 4812.94] that means -[4812.94 --> 4813.58] we are made -[4813.58 --> 4814.98] brothers to each other -[4814.98 --> 4815.82] and of course -[4815.82 --> 4817.68] brothers includes -[4817.68 --> 4819.38] and sons includes -[4819.38 --> 4820.66] daughters and sisters. -[4821.40 --> 4822.94] We are a new family -[4822.94 --> 4824.60] because of this identity -[4824.60 --> 4826.40] in Christ Jesus. -[4826.40 --> 4827.74] It's the new body -[4827.74 --> 4829.14] of Christ family -[4829.14 --> 4830.72] that Paul is encouraging -[4830.72 --> 4831.76] the Thessalonians -[4831.76 --> 4832.32] to love -[4832.32 --> 4833.48] more and more. -[4834.10 --> 4835.00] And that encouragement -[4835.00 --> 4836.22] continues down the line -[4836.22 --> 4836.98] to us today. -[4836.98 --> 4839.34] And just like -[4839.34 --> 4839.82] the call -[4839.82 --> 4841.08] to the Thessalonians -[4841.08 --> 4841.72] to love -[4841.72 --> 4842.46] more and more -[4842.46 --> 4843.52] is based upon -[4843.52 --> 4844.84] the new identity -[4844.84 --> 4845.82] they have received -[4845.82 --> 4846.82] as those taught -[4846.82 --> 4847.52] by God. -[4847.88 --> 4848.52] New identity -[4848.52 --> 4849.32] we have received -[4849.32 --> 4850.48] because of the gospel. -[4850.80 --> 4851.50] We too -[4851.50 --> 4852.94] love each other -[4852.94 --> 4854.28] more and more -[4854.28 --> 4855.36] because -[4855.36 --> 4857.38] of who he is. -[4859.26 --> 4860.32] And in fact -[4860.32 --> 4864.26] in this redefined -[4864.26 --> 4865.10] family -[4865.10 --> 4867.52] we are closer -[4867.52 --> 4868.92] with those -[4868.92 --> 4869.62] who share -[4869.62 --> 4870.72] the blood of Jesus -[4870.72 --> 4872.84] than with those -[4872.84 --> 4873.88] who share -[4873.88 --> 4875.86] our particular DNA -[4875.86 --> 4877.74] if they don't believe. -[4879.84 --> 4880.64] Now I know -[4880.64 --> 4881.22] that's not really -[4881.22 --> 4881.88] a kosher thing -[4881.88 --> 4882.22] to say. -[4882.22 --> 4885.26] And of course -[4885.26 --> 4885.98] we pray -[4885.98 --> 4886.64] that our -[4886.64 --> 4887.76] biological families -[4887.76 --> 4888.64] are also part -[4888.64 --> 4889.44] of the blood-bought -[4889.44 --> 4890.38] family of God. -[4891.56 --> 4892.70] But this reality -[4892.70 --> 4893.42] is also why -[4893.42 --> 4894.18] it's so hard -[4894.18 --> 4895.06] in marriages -[4895.06 --> 4895.74] where one -[4895.74 --> 4896.80] partner -[4896.80 --> 4898.06] is a believer -[4898.06 --> 4899.44] and the other one -[4899.44 --> 4900.04] even if they're -[4900.04 --> 4900.44] supportive -[4900.44 --> 4900.98] is not. -[4902.36 --> 4903.64] It's just so hard. -[4905.28 --> 4906.16] It's also why -[4906.16 --> 4907.08] single people -[4907.08 --> 4908.00] in the church -[4908.00 --> 4908.72] sometimes -[4908.72 --> 4909.80] have so much -[4909.80 --> 4910.26] trouble. -[4911.56 --> 4911.84] Whether -[4911.84 --> 4912.52] you're single -[4912.52 --> 4913.20] by choice -[4913.20 --> 4914.14] or by calling -[4914.14 --> 4915.26] or by circumstance -[4915.26 --> 4916.32] what so many -[4916.32 --> 4917.26] of them experience -[4917.26 --> 4918.70] is a prioritization -[4918.70 --> 4919.72] of the biological -[4919.72 --> 4920.82] family -[4920.82 --> 4921.68] when what -[4921.68 --> 4922.10] scriptures -[4922.10 --> 4923.10] are calling us -[4923.10 --> 4923.78] to is a -[4923.78 --> 4924.78] redefinition -[4924.78 --> 4925.96] of the family. -[4927.58 --> 4928.46] And it's beautiful -[4928.46 --> 4929.16] to see -[4929.16 --> 4929.90] villages -[4929.90 --> 4931.00] raising kids. -[4932.34 --> 4933.16] To put it bluntly -[4933.16 --> 4934.06] you guys know -[4934.06 --> 4934.48] my kids -[4934.48 --> 4935.06] I'm dependent -[4935.06 --> 4935.82] on all y'all. -[4936.64 --> 4937.30] I can't do it -[4937.30 --> 4937.78] without you. -[4940.52 --> 4941.30] In fact -[4941.30 --> 4941.88] as we talk -[4941.88 --> 4942.64] about covenants -[4942.64 --> 4943.36] and new covenant -[4943.36 --> 4944.22] realities -[4944.22 --> 4945.16] this is the promise -[4945.16 --> 4946.12] we make at baptism -[4946.12 --> 4946.94] isn't it? -[4947.64 --> 4948.52] That we will all -[4948.52 --> 4949.76] be spiritual parents -[4949.76 --> 4950.48] to each other's -[4950.48 --> 4950.82] kids -[4950.82 --> 4951.66] mentors -[4951.66 --> 4952.66] and disciples -[4952.66 --> 4955.38] you are -[4955.38 --> 4956.24] sanctified -[4956.24 --> 4957.16] you are set -[4957.16 --> 4957.68] apart -[4957.68 --> 4958.54] to love -[4958.54 --> 4959.10] your new -[4959.10 --> 4959.68] family -[4959.68 --> 4960.42] and so -[4960.42 --> 4961.48] here's the question -[4961.48 --> 4962.90] how are you -[4962.90 --> 4963.40] doing at that? -[4963.40 --> 4966.88] how are you -[4966.88 --> 4967.72] loving this church? -[4969.26 --> 4970.12] Sometimes loving -[4970.12 --> 4971.20] looks like serving -[4971.20 --> 4971.78] right? -[4971.90 --> 4972.84] Sometimes love -[4972.84 --> 4973.94] looks like trusting -[4973.94 --> 4975.14] trusting -[4975.14 --> 4976.12] someone with -[4976.12 --> 4976.80] your hardship -[4976.80 --> 4978.30] with your brokenness -[4978.30 --> 4978.82] with the -[4978.82 --> 4979.36] chaoses -[4979.36 --> 4981.56] sometimes love -[4981.56 --> 4981.96] looks like -[4981.96 --> 4982.54] vulnerability -[4982.54 --> 4985.58] your love -[4985.58 --> 4986.32] can look like -[4986.32 --> 4987.16] a willingness -[4987.16 --> 4988.16] to be honest -[4988.16 --> 4989.16] about the -[4989.16 --> 4989.58] hardships -[4989.58 --> 4991.12] and the garbage -[4991.12 --> 4991.96] you're going -[4991.96 --> 4992.28] through -[4992.28 --> 4994.98] and your love -[4994.98 --> 4996.24] can look like -[4996.24 --> 4997.24] meeting someone -[4997.24 --> 4998.68] in that place -[4998.68 --> 5000.08] and sitting -[5000.08 --> 5000.68] with them -[5000.68 --> 5002.08] in the brokenness -[5002.08 --> 5003.52] and encouraging -[5003.52 --> 5004.06] them -[5004.06 --> 5005.04] as their heart -[5005.04 --> 5005.56] falters -[5005.56 --> 5010.08] but not just -[5010.08 --> 5011.16] here -[5011.16 --> 5011.78] right? -[5012.50 --> 5013.32] Because Paul -[5013.32 --> 5013.84] says that -[5013.84 --> 5014.54] this is what -[5014.54 --> 5015.22] they have been -[5015.22 --> 5015.60] doing -[5015.60 --> 5016.66] not only in -[5016.66 --> 5017.20] their own church -[5017.20 --> 5017.78] but throughout -[5017.78 --> 5018.58] Macedonia -[5018.58 --> 5019.50] there's a sense -[5019.50 --> 5020.10] in which that -[5020.10 --> 5020.94] love functioning -[5020.94 --> 5022.00] here sort of -[5022.00 --> 5022.72] bubbles up -[5022.72 --> 5023.52] and spills -[5023.52 --> 5024.04] over -[5024.04 --> 5024.74] it blossoms -[5024.74 --> 5025.98] up to include -[5025.98 --> 5026.78] Christians -[5026.78 --> 5027.80] everywhere -[5027.80 --> 5029.76] brothers and -[5029.76 --> 5030.42] sisters in -[5030.42 --> 5030.88] Langley -[5030.88 --> 5031.62] and in -[5031.62 --> 5032.04] Canada -[5032.04 --> 5032.94] and yes -[5032.94 --> 5033.42] even in -[5033.42 --> 5033.76] Michigan -[5033.76 --> 5035.80] throughout -[5035.80 --> 5036.44] the world -[5036.44 --> 5039.50] so let me -[5039.50 --> 5040.20] ask you this -[5040.20 --> 5041.68] at a time -[5041.68 --> 5042.36] such as -[5042.36 --> 5042.82] this -[5042.82 --> 5044.82] when things -[5044.82 --> 5045.62] are incredibly -[5045.62 --> 5046.78] polarized -[5046.78 --> 5048.12] divided -[5048.12 --> 5049.54] divisive -[5049.54 --> 5050.22] not just -[5050.22 --> 5050.76] in online -[5050.76 --> 5051.24] spaces -[5051.24 --> 5051.76] but in -[5051.76 --> 5052.14] life -[5052.14 --> 5052.86] spaces -[5052.86 --> 5056.36] is this -[5056.36 --> 5056.68] how you're -[5056.68 --> 5057.14] showing up? -[5058.60 --> 5059.42] Is this -[5059.42 --> 5060.00] the love -[5060.00 --> 5060.44] you're bringing -[5060.44 --> 5060.84] to your -[5060.84 --> 5061.32] brothers and -[5061.32 --> 5061.64] sisters -[5061.64 --> 5062.10] who maybe -[5062.10 --> 5062.74] disagree with -[5062.74 --> 5062.90] you? -[5063.64 --> 5064.38] Is this -[5064.38 --> 5064.94] the love -[5064.94 --> 5065.38] you're bringing -[5065.38 --> 5066.16] to brothers -[5066.16 --> 5066.58] and sisters -[5066.58 --> 5067.16] who are going -[5067.16 --> 5067.98] through something -[5067.98 --> 5068.60] right now -[5068.60 --> 5068.90] that you -[5068.90 --> 5069.62] maybe only -[5069.62 --> 5070.04] know a little -[5070.04 --> 5070.42] bit of -[5070.42 --> 5070.92] but probably -[5070.92 --> 5071.34] don't know -[5071.34 --> 5072.00] near enough -[5072.00 --> 5072.34] of? -[5073.00 --> 5073.68] Is this -[5073.68 --> 5074.16] the love -[5074.16 --> 5074.92] that's defining -[5074.92 --> 5075.94] your relationships -[5075.94 --> 5076.86] with everyone -[5076.86 --> 5077.52] around here -[5077.52 --> 5077.80] and with -[5077.80 --> 5078.40] everyone else -[5078.40 --> 5079.00] in your -[5079.00 --> 5079.34] life? -[5083.34 --> 5084.12] Is this -[5084.12 --> 5084.52] the kind -[5084.52 --> 5084.90] of love -[5084.90 --> 5085.24] that the -[5085.24 --> 5085.58] church -[5085.58 --> 5086.30] in the -[5086.30 --> 5086.56] world -[5086.56 --> 5087.08] is known -[5087.08 --> 5087.44] for? -[5090.18 --> 5090.82] And if -[5090.82 --> 5091.34] it's not -[5091.34 --> 5093.66] what can -[5093.66 --> 5094.20] we do -[5094.20 --> 5095.96] to paint -[5095.96 --> 5096.22] a new -[5096.22 --> 5096.58] picture? -[5097.54 --> 5098.20] What can -[5098.20 --> 5098.82] we do -[5098.82 --> 5099.58] to cast -[5099.58 --> 5099.90] a new -[5099.90 --> 5100.24] vision? -[5101.42 --> 5101.76] And hear -[5101.76 --> 5102.22] that carefully -[5102.22 --> 5102.44] right? -[5102.46 --> 5102.76] I say -[5102.76 --> 5103.18] we -[5103.18 --> 5104.22] right? -[5104.30 --> 5104.86] In verse -[5104.86 --> 5105.44] 11 and -[5105.44 --> 5105.86] 12 -[5105.86 --> 5106.86] make it -[5106.86 --> 5107.24] your -[5107.24 --> 5107.76] ambition -[5107.76 --> 5108.22] to lead -[5108.22 --> 5108.64] a quiet -[5108.64 --> 5108.98] life -[5108.98 --> 5109.28] you should -[5109.28 --> 5109.54] mind -[5109.54 --> 5109.90] your own -[5109.90 --> 5110.20] business -[5110.20 --> 5110.58] and work -[5110.58 --> 5110.82] with your -[5110.82 --> 5111.08] hands -[5111.08 --> 5111.54] just as we -[5111.54 --> 5112.02] told you -[5112.02 --> 5112.54] so that -[5112.54 --> 5113.14] your daily -[5113.14 --> 5113.76] life may -[5113.76 --> 5114.12] win the -[5114.12 --> 5114.68] respect of -[5114.68 --> 5115.14] outsiders -[5115.14 --> 5115.62] and so that -[5115.62 --> 5115.98] you will -[5115.98 --> 5116.38] not be -[5116.38 --> 5116.74] dependent -[5116.74 --> 5117.70] on anyone -[5117.70 --> 5118.64] that you -[5118.64 --> 5119.46] that your -[5119.46 --> 5120.34] is plural -[5120.34 --> 5122.02] right? -[5122.08 --> 5122.40] And so that -[5122.40 --> 5123.08] turns it from -[5123.08 --> 5123.82] a mind -[5123.82 --> 5124.42] your business -[5124.42 --> 5125.20] to mind -[5125.20 --> 5125.86] all y'all's -[5125.86 --> 5126.28] businesses -[5126.28 --> 5126.84] together -[5126.84 --> 5128.48] right? -[5128.54 --> 5128.82] So that -[5128.82 --> 5129.36] you're not -[5129.36 --> 5129.90] dependent -[5129.90 --> 5131.40] because you're -[5131.40 --> 5132.58] not alone -[5132.58 --> 5135.00] we're all -[5135.00 --> 5135.88] in this -[5135.88 --> 5137.04] together -[5137.04 --> 5138.80] and is our -[5138.80 --> 5139.42] love -[5139.42 --> 5140.02] together -[5140.02 --> 5140.54] telling -[5140.54 --> 5141.54] that kind -[5141.54 --> 5142.64] of story -[5142.64 --> 5143.54] right? -[5143.58 --> 5144.24] That mission -[5144.24 --> 5145.14] that might -[5145.14 --> 5146.16] daily win -[5146.16 --> 5146.96] the respect -[5146.96 --> 5148.74] of outsiders -[5148.74 --> 5148.92] matters. -[5151.72 --> 5152.92] It strikes me -[5152.92 --> 5153.78] right now -[5153.78 --> 5155.04] that that -[5155.04 --> 5155.80] word daily -[5155.80 --> 5157.44] matters. -[5159.48 --> 5160.04] Daily -[5160.04 --> 5160.80] win the -[5160.80 --> 5161.34] respect. -[5162.20 --> 5162.56] Not just -[5162.56 --> 5162.94] every once -[5162.94 --> 5163.28] in a while. -[5163.86 --> 5164.28] Not just -[5164.28 --> 5164.58] when you're -[5164.58 --> 5165.12] feeling like -[5165.12 --> 5165.50] your best -[5165.50 --> 5165.90] self. -[5166.30 --> 5166.60] Not when -[5166.60 --> 5166.96] you've got -[5166.96 --> 5168.16] your patience -[5168.16 --> 5168.74] all figured -[5168.74 --> 5169.18] out and -[5169.18 --> 5169.62] your children -[5169.62 --> 5170.18] all nice -[5170.18 --> 5170.74] dressed and -[5170.74 --> 5171.24] pressed and -[5171.24 --> 5171.54] in their -[5171.54 --> 5172.16] ties ready -[5172.16 --> 5172.56] to go. -[5173.12 --> 5173.68] Daily -[5173.68 --> 5175.80] this is -[5175.80 --> 5176.74] our -[5176.74 --> 5177.74] call. -[5178.74 --> 5181.20] And lastly -[5181.20 --> 5181.60] I think -[5181.60 --> 5181.94] this is -[5181.94 --> 5182.30] bigger than -[5182.30 --> 5182.58] we have -[5182.58 --> 5183.06] time for -[5183.06 --> 5183.58] this morning -[5183.58 --> 5185.44] but I -[5185.44 --> 5185.86] wonder -[5185.86 --> 5188.22] is -[5188.22 --> 5189.18] your -[5189.18 --> 5189.92] ambition -[5189.92 --> 5190.86] as a -[5190.86 --> 5191.22] Christian -[5191.22 --> 5191.80] missionary -[5191.80 --> 5193.32] to lead -[5193.32 --> 5193.80] a quiet -[5193.80 --> 5194.30] life? -[5196.58 --> 5197.30] Or -[5197.30 --> 5197.76] do you -[5197.76 --> 5198.20] think -[5198.20 --> 5198.78] you have -[5198.78 --> 5198.90] the -[5198.90 --> 5199.38] responsibility -[5199.38 --> 5200.08] to be -[5200.08 --> 5200.68] the loudest -[5200.68 --> 5201.02] voice -[5201.02 --> 5201.32] because -[5201.32 --> 5201.54] you're -[5201.54 --> 5201.66] the -[5201.66 --> 5202.06] rightest -[5202.06 --> 5202.42] voice? -[5203.92 --> 5204.80] Do you -[5204.80 --> 5205.22] think -[5205.22 --> 5205.42] that -[5205.42 --> 5206.20] you have -[5206.20 --> 5206.34] a -[5206.34 --> 5206.76] responsibility -[5206.76 --> 5207.28] to -[5207.28 --> 5207.98] change -[5207.98 --> 5208.20] the -[5208.20 --> 5208.58] entire -[5208.58 --> 5209.26] system -[5209.26 --> 5210.00] and to -[5210.00 --> 5210.46] do so -[5210.46 --> 5211.00] by any -[5211.00 --> 5211.24] means -[5211.24 --> 5211.84] necessary? -[5214.74 --> 5215.58] But what's -[5215.58 --> 5215.94] compelling -[5215.94 --> 5216.50] about that -[5216.50 --> 5217.02] quiet -[5217.02 --> 5218.18] service? -[5219.60 --> 5220.18] That -[5220.18 --> 5221.12] 60-year-old -[5221.12 --> 5221.92] woman who -[5221.92 --> 5222.46] shows up -[5222.46 --> 5222.98] week in -[5222.98 --> 5223.80] and week -[5223.80 --> 5224.72] out to -[5224.72 --> 5225.26] count the -[5225.26 --> 5225.88] checks and -[5225.88 --> 5226.48] the coins -[5226.48 --> 5227.64] every Tuesday -[5227.64 --> 5228.06] morning? -[5228.84 --> 5229.64] Thank you. -[5232.58 --> 5233.48] A quiet -[5233.48 --> 5234.06] life -[5234.06 --> 5235.30] life and -[5235.30 --> 5236.76] life of -[5236.76 --> 5237.16] love. -[5237.80 --> 5238.82] This is -[5238.82 --> 5239.32] our -[5239.32 --> 5240.38] mission. -[5241.86 --> 5242.30] And I -[5242.30 --> 5242.64] pray -[5242.64 --> 5243.76] that -[5243.76 --> 5244.18] together -[5244.18 --> 5245.32] we can -[5245.32 --> 5245.76] join -[5245.76 --> 5246.72] God in -[5246.72 --> 5247.38] this work -[5247.38 --> 5247.64] and that -[5247.64 --> 5247.84] we can -[5247.84 --> 5248.30] go from -[5248.30 --> 5249.20] this place -[5249.20 --> 5250.64] called to -[5250.64 --> 5251.30] declare -[5251.30 --> 5252.18] his -[5252.18 --> 5253.18] gospel -[5253.18 --> 5255.60] in a -[5255.60 --> 5256.32] quiet life -[5256.32 --> 5258.06] and loving -[5258.06 --> 5259.38] one another. -[5260.00 --> 5260.28] Amen? -[5260.28 --> 5260.38] Amen? -[5260.38 --> 5261.92] Let's pray -[5261.92 --> 5262.24] together. -[5268.24 --> 5269.34] God, you -[5269.34 --> 5270.54] are so -[5270.54 --> 5271.50] good. -[5272.58 --> 5272.82] Your -[5272.82 --> 5273.68] gospel is -[5273.68 --> 5275.02] so beautiful -[5275.02 --> 5275.78] and may it -[5275.78 --> 5276.84] be for us -[5276.84 --> 5277.88] a compelling -[5277.88 --> 5279.54] new reality. -[5280.66 --> 5281.42] Transform our -[5281.42 --> 5282.38] hearts and -[5282.38 --> 5282.88] our lives. -[5283.16 --> 5283.92] Transform our -[5283.92 --> 5284.74] minds by -[5284.74 --> 5285.36] your word -[5285.36 --> 5286.16] this morning -[5286.16 --> 5286.54] that we -[5286.54 --> 5287.20] may see -[5287.20 --> 5287.88] the face -[5287.88 --> 5288.60] of Jesus -[5288.60 --> 5289.60] and we -[5289.60 --> 5290.70] may go -[5290.70 --> 5291.74] forth from -[5291.74 --> 5292.50] this place -[5292.50 --> 5293.28] to proclaim -[5293.28 --> 5294.70] your name -[5294.70 --> 5295.66] in love. -[5299.18 --> 5299.96] Send us -[5299.96 --> 5300.30] out, -[5300.62 --> 5301.28] holy God. -[5303.70 --> 5304.10] May we -[5304.10 --> 5304.62] trust that -[5304.62 --> 5305.06] you go -[5305.06 --> 5305.78] before us -[5305.78 --> 5306.04] in the -[5306.04 --> 5306.58] power of -[5306.58 --> 5307.08] your spirit -[5307.08 --> 5309.18] and that -[5309.18 --> 5309.40] no matter -[5309.40 --> 5309.90] where we -[5309.90 --> 5310.20] go, -[5310.40 --> 5310.72] we are -[5310.72 --> 5311.12] in fact -[5311.12 --> 5311.48] just -[5311.48 --> 5311.94] following -[5311.94 --> 5312.98] after -[5312.98 --> 5313.54] you. -[5314.90 --> 5315.36] Pray this -[5315.36 --> 5315.66] Jesus -[5315.66 --> 5316.06] in your -[5316.06 --> 5316.36] most -[5316.36 --> 5316.68] holy -[5316.68 --> 5317.06] name. -[5317.70 --> 5318.00] Amen. -[5318.00 --> 5318.08] Amen. -[5345.36 --> 5361.56] O the dear, -[5361.56 --> 5366.24] dear love of Jesus -[5366.24 --> 5368.54] holy 해 th outcomes -[5368.54 --> 5369.24] . -[5369.24 --> 5370.72] and that -[5370.72 --> 5371.24] Fount -[5371.24 --> 5371.78] all -[5371.78 --> 5372.54] of his -[5372.54 --> 5372.60] How -[5372.66 --> 5373.74] is free -[5373.74 --> 5374.54] keep -[5374.54 --> 5376.36] O the -[5376.36 --> 5377.36] fit -[5377.36 --> 5379.12] in the -[5379.12 --> 5380.18] hoped -[5380.18 --> 5380.70] and his -[5380.70 --> 5383.66] 속 -[5383.66 --> 5384.44] and his -[5384.44 --> 5385.38] own -[5385.38 --> 5387.94] His -[5387.94 --> 5388.88] erosion -[5388.88 --> 5390.12] Without -[5390.12 --> 5391.08] look -[5391.08 --> 5391.62] both -[5391.62 --> 5391.94] as -[5391.94 --> 5392.40] Oers -[5392.40 --> 5392.56] of -[5392.56 --> 5393.40] I -[5393.40 --> 5394.76] 酷 -[5394.76 --> 5395.24] lost -[5395.24 --> 5405.84] All around me is the current of my love. -[5405.84 --> 5421.84] Leading onward, leading homeward to the glorious rest of God. -[5421.84 --> 5430.58] Oh, the deep, deep love of Jesus. -[5430.58 --> 5438.80] Spread his praise from shore to shore. -[5439.58 --> 5446.58] How he loves us, heaven loves us. -[5446.58 --> 5454.58] Changes never, nevermore. -[5455.28 --> 5462.70] How he watches for his loved ones. -[5463.14 --> 5469.54] Died to call them all his own. -[5469.54 --> 5477.54] How for them he's interceding. -[5478.24 --> 5484.54] Watches over them from the throne. -[5484.54 --> 5494.54] Oh, the deep, deep love of Jesus. -[5494.54 --> 5501.54] Love of every love that bless. -[5501.54 --> 5510.54] Tis an ocean that's a blessing. -[5510.54 --> 5517.54] Tis a haven, sweet of rest. -[5517.54 --> 5547.54] -[5547.54 --> 5569.88] As you go this week, know that you go as those commissioned by God to love and live a quiet life. -[5569.88 --> 5577.88] God himself goes with you and so receive his blessing for the journey of life and faith ahead. -[5577.88 --> 5581.88] God go before you to lead you. -[5581.88 --> 5583.88] God go behind you to protect you. -[5583.88 --> 5585.88] God go beneath you to support you. -[5585.88 --> 5588.88] God go beside you to befriend you. -[5588.88 --> 5590.88] Do not be afraid. -[5590.88 --> 5593.88] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5593.88 --> 5599.88] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5599.88 --> 5601.88] Amen. -[5629.88 --> 5631.88] God go beyond you today. -[5631.88 --> 5632.88] We can go there. -[5632.88 --> 5634.88] We can live there. -[5634.88 --> 5635.88] Beyond you. -[5635.88 --> 5638.88] Because of you. -[5638.88 --> 5641.88] Because of you. -[5641.88 --> 5648.88] Because of your love. -[5648.88 --> 5650.88] Because of your love. -[5650.88 --> 5652.88] No pain. -[5652.88 --> 5654.88] No sadness. -[5654.88 --> 5655.88] No suffering. -[5655.88 --> 5657.88] No pain. -[5657.88 --> 5659.88] No pain. -[5659.88 --> 5660.88] No sin. -[5660.88 --> 5663.88] No secrets. -[5663.88 --> 5665.88] No injustice. -[5665.88 --> 5666.88] No pain. -[5666.88 --> 5669.88] Because of you. -[5669.88 --> 5674.88] Because of you. -[5674.88 --> 5678.88] Because of your love. -[5678.88 --> 5682.88] Because of your love. -[5682.88 --> 5687.88] All our sins are washed away. -[5687.88 --> 5691.88] We can live forever. -[5691.88 --> 5694.88] Now we have this love. -[5694.88 --> 5697.88] Because of you. -[5697.88 --> 5702.88] Oh, we'll see you face to face. -[5702.88 --> 5706.88] We will dance together. -[5706.88 --> 5709.88] In the city of our God. -[5709.88 --> 5711.88] Because of you. -[5711.88 --> 5712.88] Because of you. -[5712.88 --> 5717.88] There is joy everlasting. -[5717.88 --> 5721.88] There is darkness and peace. -[5721.88 --> 5725.88] There is wine and flowing. -[5725.88 --> 5729.88] There's a wedding with me. -[5729.88 --> 5730.88] There is honey and rose with you. -[5730.88 --> 5731.88] So you are spiritual for me. -[5731.88 --> 5735.88] Our sin. -[5735.88 --> 5736.88] Because of you. -[5736.88 --> 5737.88] Because of you. -[5738.88 --> 5741.96] Because of your love. -[5742.88 --> 5745.88] Because of your love. -[5745.88 --> 5750.88] All our sins are washedaway. -[5750.88 --> 5754.54] We will dance forever -[5754.54 --> 5758.10] Now we have this hope -[5758.10 --> 5761.04] Because of you -[5761.04 --> 5766.42] Oh, we will see you day to day -[5766.42 --> 5770.26] We will dance together -[5770.26 --> 5774.12] In the city of our God -[5774.12 --> 5776.88] Because of you -[5776.88 --> 5782.26] Oh, all our sins are washed away -[5782.26 --> 5786.32] We can live forever -[5786.32 --> 5790.16] Now we have this hope -[5790.16 --> 5793.10] Because of you -[5793.10 --> 5798.38] Oh, we will see you day to day -[5798.38 --> 5802.32] We will dance together -[5802.32 --> 5806.32] In the city of our God -[5806.32 --> 5808.50] Because of you -[5808.50 --> 5810.64] Oh, we will see you day to night -[5810.64 --> 5815.48] We will dance together -[5815.48 --> 5819.84] We will dance together -[5819.84 --> 5822.14] In the city of our God -[5822.14 --> 5852.12] Thank you. -[5852.14 --> 5882.12] Thank you. -[5882.14 --> 5912.12] Thank you. -[5912.14 --> 5914.14] Thank you. -[5942.14 --> 5944.14] Thank you. -[5972.14 --> 5974.14] Thank you. -[6002.14 --> 6004.14] Thank you. -[6032.14 --> 6034.14] Thank you. -[6062.14 --> 6064.14] Thank you. -[6092.14 --> 6094.14] Thank you. -[6122.14 --> 6124.14] Thank you. -[6152.14 --> 6154.14] Thank you. -[6182.14 --> 6184.14] Thank you. -[6212.14 --> 6214.14] Thank you. -[6242.14 --> 6244.14] Thank you. -[6244.14 --> 6245.14] Thank you. -[6245.14 --> 6247.10] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, May 11, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, May 11, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 5b61cd156ca922f4cd5a5c1ccb535be71454e4d8..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, May 11, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,188 +0,0 @@ -• Spiritual transformation through pressure and refinement -• The joy of the Lord as strength in difficult times -• Love's power to change and forgive -• Unforgiveness and its consequences -• Accepting God's love and being valued and loved for who you are -• Overcoming guilt, shame, and fear through faith in God -• Celebrating Mother's Day and the role of mothers -• Reactivation registration for youth conference open until September 5-7 -• Women's Bible study ministry, Coffee Break, hosting year-end social -• Adult Heidelberg Catechism reading group rescheduled due to long weekend -• Call to worship from Psalm 62 -• Worship song referencing Jesus as source of heaven's hope on earth -• Prayers of trust and rest in God -• Reflection on Psalm 91 and the importance of trust -• Invitation to let go of own abilities and trust in God's promise -• Worship and singing of hymns and prayers -• Affirmation of Jesus as strength, treasure, and all in all -• A person sings a Christian song with repetitive lyrics -• Introduction by Mike, a deacon, to a special offering for Diacola Ministries of Canada -• Discussion about the importance and history of serving alongside Diacola Ministries in the church -• Invitation to give undesignated gifts to Diacola Ministries -• A person sings another song with lyrics expressing love for God and desire for more of God's presence -• Mike forgets how to lead a prayer or blessing and asks for help -• Discussion about what it means to say "The Lord be with you" and the response "And also with you" -• Introducing a prayer service with the congregation standing and praying together -• Discussion of church history, noting that in the past people prayed while standing or kneeling instead of sitting -• A blessing is given to kids who are learning about Jesus and to those present in worship -• A report from the leadership board (council) on recent meetings and updates -• Review of 2024 financial statements, a surplus over expenses, and plans for using this surplus -• Approval of nominees for Deacon and Elder positions -• Reports from Pastor Chris and Pastor Kevin -• Family prayer led by Paul, an elder at the church -• Prayers for the Skipper family, particularly Matt and his children -• Comfort and strength requested for those grieving and suffering from cancer (Tanya, Tessa, Doug) -• Request to continue being with the church and help them grow in faith and spread God's message -• Reading and discussion of 2 Thessalonians 1:1-7 -• The speaker praises the church for their perseverance and faith in the face of persecution. -• The speaker mentions that God's judgment is right and those who are suffering will be worthy of the kingdom of God. -• The speaker affirms that God is just and will pay back those who trouble them. -• The speaker encourages listeners to acknowledge God's real presence in their lives, despite any fear or lack of trust. -• The speaker emphasizes that God is active in this world, particularly through His people. -• The power of God is revealed through the church -• Paul's letter to the Thessalonians was written in response to an update on the persecution they were experiencing -• The first letter was likely written after a brief time apart for Paul, Silas, and Timothy -• The second letter (today's focus) was probably written only a few months later -• The church in Thessalonica faced severe persecution and trouble with local authorities -• Paul's opening words in a letter, referencing God as Father -• Claim about God's triune nature (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) -• Jesus' relationship with God as the Son -• God being viewed as Father to all believers through Jesus -• Prayer examples from 1 Thessalonians and Matthew 6 -• Characteristics of God: slow to anger, abounding in love -• Characteristics of God: patience, comfort in trouble, provision, forgiveness, and mercy -• Trusting God's faithfulness and unchanging nature -• Understanding the phrase "Our Father" and its significance in prayer -• Knowing how to start and end a prayer -• Defining the word "grace" as an unmerited disposition of God towards us -• God's initiative in coming to humans -• God's demonstration of love for humans while they were still sinners -• The concept of grace as an unearned favor from God -• God's movement towards humans first, before they call on him -• The result of being in a relationship with God: peace -• The biblical sense of peace is holistic and more than just the absence of conflict -• The concept of shalom and its meaning -• Wholeness in life and orientation to God -• The relationship between a person's relationship with God and their experience of peace -• Peace as the fruit of grace and restored relationship with God -• How peace flows into different areas of a person's life, including heart, mind, relationships, and endurance of suffering -• Death and sin -• God's grace and Jesus' transformative power -• Peace and living righteously -• The gospel as good news that transforms individuals -• Gratitude for the faith, love, and growth of others in the church -• The body of Jesus is transformed by profession, belief, and looks like transformation that takes shape -• Transformation grows in faith and love for one another -• Paul gives thanks to God who is real and still at work in the world -• God gives growth and the first part of our transformation is gratitude -• Christian life and living is defined by gratitude -• It's hard to be thankful when you're angry, but being thankful is important -• Combating negative thoughts and voices in the head -• The importance of actively listing and reflecting on reasons to be grateful -• Overcoming difficult emotions such as darkness, loneliness, and oppression -• Finding comfort and support in God's presence -• Defeating sin and death through spiritual renewal -• Praise and worship of God -• Expressing gratitude to God -• The importance of faith and love in one's life -• Recognizing God's presence and work in the world -• Understanding how to know if God is at work through faith and love growing -• Faith and love as coming from God and being a sign of His presence -• The speaker visited Sierra Leone and met Reverend Moses Jawara, the president of the Christian Reformed Church. -• Reverend Jawara was previously a devout Muslim and anti-Christian leader in Sierra Leone before converting to Christianity. -• He attended a rally where he heard about Jesus and accepted him as his Lord and Savior. -• Training women for small business opportunities -• Gathering groups and promoting unity -• Progress of the CRC church in Sierra Leone -• God's work in communities, including growth of faith and love -• Stories of people experiencing God's love and being lavishly loved children of God -• Described learning period of their life -• Taking opportunities to grow in faith and life with Christ -• Transformation of their lives and desires over the past six months -• Seeing God work miracles in people's lives -• Observing love and care for others through hardships and grief -• Providing for others, including making meals and giving rides -• Prayer for perseverance -• Story of Sunday gathering -• God's work in the community -• Growth of faith and love among people -• Importance of perseverance and faith -• Church grounded in faith and working together -• Faithfulness to God's plans and preparation for future works -• Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead -• Pressing on toward the goal, not resting on the past -• Stepping forward into the future that God is preparing -• Gratitude looking back, but faith always stepping forward -• Pressing on into what God has next, including trials and hardships -• Polycarp's life and leadership in the church -• His relationship with Apostle John -• Martyrdom at age 86, including Roman officials' attempts to force him to renounce Christ -• Calm response to being sentenced to be burned alive -• Miraculous circumstances surrounding his death, including a flame arch forming over his body -• The faith of early Christians was emboldened by their testimonies and showed God's power and provision even in impossible circumstances. -• A story from the early church, Polycarp's, is mentioned as a legacy of perseverance that fuels the modern Christian faith. -• The lineage of faith runs straight from the New Testament era to the present day, with examples including Paul's story, the church in Thessalonica, and the church facing political disappointments and war. -• God's strength always holds Christians fast even through death and if he sustains them through death, he can sustain his church through difficult times. -• Tariff wars -• Trust in God to sustain through recommendations (429 and 430) -• Endurance of the church -• Perseverance in trials -• Evidence of God's judgment as a result of perseverance -• Worthy count towards the kingdom of God -• Value of faith, endurance, love, and hardship -• God sees and knows the listener -• Trials are not random, but refining of faith -• Faith is noticed by heaven and not wasted -• Church grounded in faith will be fruitful in its work -• Praying together to thank God for who He is and what He has done -• Asking God to transform lives and preserve perseverance in faithfulness -• The importance of faith and trust in God -• The connection between scripture, sacrament, and worship -• Liturgical practices and shared worship -• Invitation to speak specific words from the screen behind the speaker -• Request for faith to open eyes to see Jesus -• Worship and adoration of God -• Invitation to receive God's presence and glory -• Opening one's heart, hands, and mouth to offer praise and gifts -• Remembrance of Jesus' sacrifice through the Last Supper -• Participating in communion (Lord's Supper) with faith and remembrance -• The Lord's death is proclaimed until he comes again -• Death is swallowed by life, and victory is won -• The feast of the congregation of Jesus Christ is celebrated -• The table of the Lord has been prepared for true believers -• Invitation to come with gladness to the Lord's table -• The gifts of God are given to the people of God -• Instructions on how to participate in the feast together -• Reminders to pass the bread and juice during a church service -• Instructions for gluten-free options available in the church -• Procedures for worship volunteers and elders at the first table -• Invitation for people seated in back of house to come forward and participate in worship -• Jesus Christ -• God and His power -• Worship and adoration (hallelujah) -• Salvation through the precious blood of Jesus Christ -• Resurrection and victory over death -• Praise and glory to God -• Singing hallelujah and worshiping at the altar -• Song titles mentioned: We Sing Hallelujah, Revelation Song -• Repeated phrases mentioned: - + "I'm forgiven because you were forsaken." - + "I'm accepted." - + "You were condemned." - + "I'm alive and well." - + "Your spirit is within me." - + "Because you died and rose again." - + "Amazing love, how can it be?" - + "It's my joy to honor you." - + "In all I do, I honor you." -• Worship lyrics mentioned: - + "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty" - + "With all creation I sing praise to the King of kings" - + "You are my everything and I will adore you" -• Praise to the King of kings -• God's presence and power in our lives -• Protection and guidance from God -• The blessing of God and its effects -• Courage and peace in serving the Lord -• Worship and glory to the eternal, immortal, invisible King -• Repeated expressions of amen, indicating conclusion and affirmation \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, May 11, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, May 11, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 89a6ce50fa2bb5fa0ad8f2804124ed61fd2a433a..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, May 11, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3971 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 13.64] Here and now I'm in the fire and above my head -[13.64 --> 22.74] Being held under the pressure, don't know what'll be left -[22.74 --> 34.52] But it's here in the ashes, I'm finding treasures -[34.52 --> 44.48] He's making diamonds, diamonds, making diamonds out of dust -[44.48 --> 53.84] He is refining, and in his timing, he's making diamonds out of us -[53.84 --> 59.38] I'll surrender to the power of being crushed by love -[59.38 --> 68.48] Till the beauty that was hidden isn't covered up -[68.48 --> 75.98] Oh, it's not what I hoped for -[75.98 --> 80.22] It's something much better -[80.22 --> 90.20] He's making diamonds, diamonds, making diamonds out of dust -[90.20 --> 99.54] He is refining, and in his timing, he's making diamonds out of us -[99.54 --> 106.20] Oh, the joy of the Lord, it will be my strength -[106.74 --> 110.94] When the pressure is on, he's making diamonds -[110.94 --> 115.94] Oh, the joy of the Lord, it will be my strength -[115.94 --> 120.04] When the pressure is on, he's making diamonds -[120.04 --> 125.04] Oh, the joy of the Lord, it will be my strength -[125.04 --> 131.50] When the pressure is on, he's making, he's making, he's making diamonds -[131.50 --> 133.76] Diamonds, diamonds, diamonds -[133.76 --> 138.14] Making us rise up from the dust -[138.14 --> 147.34] He is refining, and in his timing, he's making diamonds out of dust -[147.34 --> 151.80] Making diamonds out of dust -[151.80 --> 181.78] I won't be afraid -[181.78 --> 187.02] Oh, the joy of the Lord, you're seeing me -[187.02 --> 189.06] Oh, the joy of the Lord, I am making diamonds -[189.06 --> 196.94] I want you as you are, not as you ought to be -[196.94 --> 201.90] Won't you lay down your guard and cut me -[201.90 --> 207.36] The shame that grips you now is crippling -[207.36 --> 213.20] It breaks my heart to see you suffering -[213.20 --> 216.38] Cause I am for you -[216.38 --> 220.38] I'm not against you -[220.38 --> 225.70] If you wanna know how far my love can go -[225.70 --> 229.28] Just how deep, just how wide -[229.28 --> 233.16] If you wanna see how much you mean to me -[233.16 --> 236.96] Look at my hands, look at my side -[236.96 --> 242.24] If you could count the times that say you are unforgiving -[242.24 --> 245.60] It's more than the drops in the ocean -[245.60 --> 257.30] Don't think you need to settle for a substitute -[257.30 --> 262.80] When I'm the only love that changes you -[262.80 --> 265.54] And I am for you -[266.96 --> 269.52] I'm not against you -[269.52 --> 273.12] I'm not against you -[273.12 --> 277.12] I'm not against you -[277.12 --> 282.40] If you wanna know how far my love can go -[282.40 --> 285.24] Just how deep, just how wide -[285.24 --> 289.88] If you wanna see how much you mean to me -[289.88 --> 293.64] Look at my hands, look at my side -[293.64 --> 298.92] If you could count the times that say you are unforgiving -[298.92 --> 302.26] It's more than the drops in the ocean -[302.26 --> 304.40] If you wanna see how much I am about ten -[304.40 --> 322.34] It's kind of like a trump -[322.34 --> 352.32] I love you. -[352.34 --> 355.18] The drops in the ocean. -[361.08 --> 363.76] I am for you. -[364.66 --> 367.80] I'm not against you. -[368.80 --> 371.34] I am for you. -[372.78 --> 375.56] I'm not against you. -[382.34 --> 412.32] I'm not against you. -[412.32 --> 442.30] I'm not against you. -[442.30 --> 443.80] Live like you know. -[444.08 --> 445.86] Live like you know. -[445.86 --> 448.28] Live like you know. -[450.14 --> 452.36] Live like you know. -[454.14 --> 456.92] Live like you know. -[457.84 --> 460.90] And live like you know you're valuable. -[461.22 --> 465.34] Like you know the one that holds your soul. -[465.34 --> 469.58] Cause mercy has called you by your name -[469.58 --> 473.88] Don't be afraid to live in that grace -[473.88 --> 476.84] Oh, I'm telling you something -[476.84 --> 479.04] This God we believe in -[479.04 --> 481.52] Yeah, He changed everything -[481.52 --> 484.66] No more guilt, no more shame -[484.66 --> 486.64] He took all that away -[486.64 --> 489.84] Gave us a reason to sing -[489.84 --> 493.02] So go ahead and live like you live -[493.02 --> 497.70] It's okay to act like you've been set free -[497.70 --> 501.08] Cause love has made you more than enough -[501.08 --> 504.48] So go ahead and live like you live -[504.48 --> 507.80] Good morning! -[510.14 --> 512.60] Welcome to church. -[512.74 --> 516.00] A special welcome if you are a guest among us today. -[516.44 --> 521.92] And an extra special welcome if you are a mom among us today. -[521.92 --> 524.36] Happy Mother's Day to you. -[524.72 --> 526.28] Here in the church especially, -[526.58 --> 530.02] we know that mothers come in all sorts of different roles -[530.02 --> 530.90] and relationships -[530.90 --> 533.30] and we're grateful for all of you -[533.30 --> 536.50] and for the impact that you have on the lives -[536.50 --> 539.28] of our families and our kids together. -[540.10 --> 542.04] We're also mindful that on days like today -[542.04 --> 547.38] mothers can be, and being a mom can be hard -[547.38 --> 549.98] and we can be missing our moms -[549.98 --> 552.14] we can be wishing we were moms -[552.14 --> 557.12] and so there's lots of emotions in this space today. -[557.28 --> 561.30] And so we want to just bring that all to our God in worship. -[561.70 --> 563.84] Our God meets us in this place -[563.84 --> 566.36] in just a moment He's going to welcome us -[566.36 --> 568.10] and He's going to greet us together. -[568.68 --> 572.36] Before that, we do have a couple of announcements to make -[572.36 --> 576.00] and so just wanted to note for you -[576.00 --> 579.82] that reactivate registration is open -[579.82 --> 583.10] and so that's a youth conference that we host here -[583.10 --> 586.60] and that takes place September 5 through 7. -[587.34 --> 589.32] And so if you are in our youth program -[589.32 --> 592.52] or you know someone who would like to come to this conference, -[592.52 --> 594.50] you can send them the link to registration -[594.50 --> 596.82] which is in the e-bulletin, goes out -[596.82 --> 598.06] and you can find it online. -[598.06 --> 603.24] As well, this week, Tuesday, Coffee Break, -[603.34 --> 605.36] which is a women's Bible study ministry -[605.36 --> 607.18] that meets here Tuesday mornings. -[607.70 --> 609.94] They're having their year-end social -[609.94 --> 612.98] and so if you would like to come -[612.98 --> 614.64] and have some excellent food -[614.64 --> 616.48] and some even better fellowship, -[616.70 --> 618.40] there's an opportunity for you to do that -[618.40 --> 620.28] one last time this year. -[621.06 --> 626.06] And then lastly, we had originally scheduled -[626.06 --> 631.24] HCBC and our adult Heidelberg Catechism reading group -[631.24 --> 632.74] for next weekend, -[633.28 --> 634.28] but it's a long weekend -[634.28 --> 635.90] and we've heard feedback from people -[635.90 --> 638.00] and so we're rescheduling that. -[638.46 --> 640.22] That information will come out -[640.22 --> 643.34] to those who participate in the next little while. -[643.48 --> 645.66] So keep your eyes and ears open for that. -[646.60 --> 648.72] I think that's it for our announcements -[648.72 --> 649.92] and so I'm going to invite you -[649.92 --> 652.86] as you're able and where you are to stand together. -[652.86 --> 656.04] Together, we can be welcomed into the presence -[656.04 --> 658.54] of our God and Father together. -[658.66 --> 660.48] Following God's greeting, -[660.68 --> 662.78] I invite you to turn to those around you -[662.78 --> 665.54] and to welcome them into worship together. -[665.94 --> 667.72] You can do so with a handshake, -[668.08 --> 669.78] with a fist bump or a head nod -[669.78 --> 671.86] and then pass the peace of Christ. -[672.04 --> 673.96] Say the peace of Christ be with you -[673.96 --> 675.34] or the Lord be with you -[675.34 --> 677.04] as we come together this morning. -[677.16 --> 678.48] Receive God's blessing. -[678.48 --> 682.92] grace, mercy and peace to you -[682.92 --> 684.06] from God our Father, -[684.34 --> 685.66] from the Lord Jesus Christ, -[685.76 --> 686.84] His Son and our Savior, -[687.44 --> 688.62] through the presence and power -[688.62 --> 689.86] of the Holy Spirit. -[690.72 --> 691.08] Amen. -[691.08 --> 691.20] Amen. -[691.20 --> 691.24] Amen. -[708.48 --> 738.30] Our call to worship this morning -[738.30 --> 740.22] comes from Psalm 62. -[740.22 --> 744.82] Yes, my soul finds rest in God. -[745.48 --> 747.34] My hope comes from Him. -[748.38 --> 751.04] Truly, He is my rock and my salvation. -[751.66 --> 752.94] He is my fortress. -[753.38 --> 754.78] I will not be shaken. -[755.82 --> 758.56] My salvation and my honor depend on God. -[758.72 --> 761.64] He is my mighty rock, my refuge. -[762.72 --> 765.12] Trust in Him at all times, you people. -[765.12 --> 768.16] pour out your hearts to Him. -[768.16 --> 770.32] For God is our refuge. -[771.38 --> 773.62] Let's pour out our hearts to God this morning -[773.62 --> 774.44] as we worship. -[775.00 --> 777.90] May we rest in Him our hope and our refuge. -[777.90 --> 798.58] Jesus, hope of the nations. -[799.58 --> 802.94] Jesus, comfort for all who bore. -[802.94 --> 803.94] Jesus, Lord. -[803.94 --> 809.94] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth. -[809.94 --> 813.94] Jesus, light in the darkness. -[813.94 --> 818.26] Jesus, truth in the circumstance. -[818.26 --> 825.26] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth. -[825.26 --> 829.26] In history, you live and die. -[829.26 --> 831.26] You broke the chains. -[831.26 --> 833.26] You rose to life. -[833.26 --> 838.16] You are the hope living in us. -[838.16 --> 841.16] You are the rock in whom we trust. -[841.16 --> 848.16] You are the light shining for all the world to see. -[849.16 --> 853.16] Heroes from the dead, conquering fear. -[853.16 --> 856.90] Our prince of peace drawing us here. -[857.42 --> 862.16] Jesus, our hope living for all who will receive. -[862.16 --> 864.16] Lord, we believe. -[864.16 --> 866.16] Lord, we believe. -[874.16 --> 877.16] Jesus, hope of the nations. -[877.16 --> 882.16] Jesus, comfort for all who mourn. -[882.16 --> 889.16] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth. -[889.16 --> 892.16] Jesus, light in the darkness. -[893.16 --> 897.16] Jesus, truth in the circumstance. -[897.16 --> 903.16] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth. -[903.16 --> 907.16] In history, you lived and died. -[907.16 --> 909.16] You broke the chains. -[909.16 --> 912.16] You rose to life. -[912.16 --> 916.16] You are the hope living in us. -[916.16 --> 920.16] You are the rock in whom we trust. -[920.16 --> 927.16] You are the light shining for all the world to see. -[927.16 --> 931.16] Heroes from the dead, conquering fear. -[931.16 --> 935.16] Our prince of peace drawing us here. -[935.16 --> 942.16] Jesus, our hope living for all who will receive. -[942.16 --> 955.16] Lord, we believe. -[955.16 --> 968.16] Lord, we believe. -[968.16 --> 990.34] My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness. -[990.34 --> 1005.34] I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly trust in Jesus' name. -[1005.34 --> 1019.10] My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness. -[1019.10 --> 1033.10] I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly trust in Jesus' name. -[1033.10 --> 1048.46] Christ alone, cornerstone, weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[1048.46 --> 1057.64] Through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[1063.10 --> 1075.60] When darkness seems to hide His face, I rest on His unchanging grace. -[1075.60 --> 1087.60] In every mind, stormy air, my anger holds within the air. -[1087.60 --> 1094.82] My anger holds within the air. -[1096.20 --> 1108.62] Christ alone, cornerstone, weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[1108.62 --> 1118.62] Through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[1118.62 --> 1134.62] When He shall come with trumpet sound, O may I then in Him be found. -[1134.62 --> 1146.62] Dressed in His righteousness alone, fallen stand before the throne. -[1146.62 --> 1160.62] Christ alone, cornerstone, weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[1160.62 --> 1172.62] Through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[1172.62 --> 1185.62] Christ alone, cornerstone, weak made strong in the Savior's love. -[1185.62 --> 1197.62] Through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[1200.62 --> 1202.22] I invite you to be seated. -[1208.12 --> 1210.66] So I was looking this week at Psalm 91. -[1211.22 --> 1213.18] It's a pretty well-known psalm. -[1213.18 --> 1215.34] The first couple of verses says, -[1215.34 --> 1220.32] Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. -[1220.94 --> 1225.82] I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust. -[1226.48 --> 1228.42] And so there's a couple of words that caught my eye. -[1229.68 --> 1232.78] Rest and trust were the two words. -[1233.26 --> 1236.04] And it reminded me of a picture I had in a... -[1236.04 --> 1238.66] There was a sermon we were listening to a while back. -[1238.66 --> 1239.66] And it was... -[1239.66 --> 1243.62] The illustration was of a child resting in his mother's arms. -[1244.50 --> 1245.76] And it was just resting. -[1246.56 --> 1254.14] It looked to me like there is no rest if that child has no trust. -[1254.14 --> 1262.94] And so I was thinking, the quality of our rest speaks of the trust we have in our Heavenly Father. -[1264.54 --> 1275.44] And it got me asking myself, what do I have to let go of in order for myself to be able to kind of lay back and rest like that child in my Father's arms? -[1275.44 --> 1279.02] So let's invite you to pray with me. -[1281.26 --> 1286.56] Abba Father, life has so many concerns, so many distractions. -[1286.56 --> 1294.36] It's so easy for us to trust in our own abilities and to tell ourselves, just work harder. -[1295.66 --> 1298.22] Forgive us for trying to live life on our own. -[1298.96 --> 1305.98] For forgetting your promise that whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. -[1305.98 --> 1315.62] Will you, by your Holy Spirit, help us to trust as we find shelter and learn to rest in your arms? -[1316.54 --> 1316.78] Amen. -[1318.46 --> 1321.06] Why don't we continue worship with... -[1321.06 --> 1322.66] Just rise and sing with us. -[1322.66 --> 1323.66] Amen. -[1335.98 --> 1351.76] You are my strength when I am weak. -[1351.76 --> 1355.40] You are the treasure that I seek. -[1355.80 --> 1361.14] You are my all in all. -[1361.14 --> 1366.14] Seeking you as a precious jewel. -[1366.14 --> 1369.62] For to give up I be a fool. -[1369.62 --> 1375.36] You are my all in all. -[1375.36 --> 1383.30] Jesus, Lamb of God. -[1383.30 --> 1387.98] Worthy is your name. -[1387.98 --> 1396.46] Jesus, Lamb of God. -[1396.46 --> 1403.46] Worthy is your name. -[1403.46 --> 1408.46] Jesus, Lamb of God. -[1408.46 --> 1411.46] Worthy is your name. -[1411.46 --> 1416.46] You are my all in all. -[1416.46 --> 1418.46] You are my all in all. -[1418.46 --> 1422.34] When I fall down, you take me up. -[1422.34 --> 1425.68] When I am dry, you fill my cup. -[1425.68 --> 1430.46] You are my all in all. -[1430.46 --> 1433.94] Jesus, Lamb of God. -[1433.94 --> 1434.94] Thank you. -[1434.94 --> 1438.96] Jesus, Lamb of God. -[1438.96 --> 1440.12] Worthy is your name. -[1440.12 --> 1442.78] Jesus, Lamb of God. -[1442.78 --> 1444.12] You are my all in all. -[1444.12 --> 1444.82] Jesus, Lamb of God. -[1444.82 --> 1447.08] You are my all in all. -[1447.08 --> 1449.30] When I fall down, you pick me up. -[1449.30 --> 1451.16] When I am dry, you fill my cup. -[1451.16 --> 1456.16] You are my all in all. -[1456.16 --> 1473.92] Jesus, Lamb of God, worthy is your name. -[1473.92 --> 1488.36] Jesus, Lamb of God, worthy is your name. -[1503.92 --> 1520.36] My Jesus, I love thee, I know thou art mine. -[1520.36 --> 1530.36] For thee all the fall is the sin I resign. -[1530.36 --> 1540.36] My precious Redeemer, my Savior art thou. -[1541.96 --> 1551.36] If ever I love thee, my Jesus is now. -[1551.36 --> 1562.96] I love thee because thou hast first loved me. -[1563.56 --> 1572.96] And purchased my pardon on Calvary's tree. -[1572.96 --> 1583.96] I love thee for wearing the thorns on thy brow. -[1585.06 --> 1594.56] If ever I love thee, my Jesus is now. -[1594.56 --> 1606.96] I love thee in life, I will love thee in death. -[1607.42 --> 1617.16] And praise thee as long as thou lendest me breath. -[1617.16 --> 1629.46] And sin when the death dew lies cold on my brow. -[1629.46 --> 1640.74] If ever I love thee, my Jesus is now. -[1640.74 --> 1651.74] In mansions of glory and endless delight. -[1651.74 --> 1663.74] I'll ever adore thee in heaven so bright. -[1663.74 --> 1674.74] I'll sing with the glittering crown on my brow. -[1674.74 --> 1686.74] If ever I love thee, my Jesus is now. -[1686.74 --> 1689.14] I invite you to be seated. -[1689.14 --> 1699.36] Good morning. -[1699.36 --> 1699.38] Good morning. -[1699.38 --> 1702.34] My name is Mike and I serve as a deacon here for the church family. -[1702.34 --> 1707.10] And this morning we have a special offering for the Diacola Ministries of Canada. -[1707.10 --> 1713.98] So they are a wonderful agency that works with the CRC and churches across Canada to empower deacons, -[1713.98 --> 1719.98] and leaders in the church, any of us in the church to be able to work in their communities, -[1719.98 --> 1724.98] and empower others, and have compassionate ministries be vibrant and actually helpful. -[1724.98 --> 1729.98] So they work with a lot of churches, but they also work with other smaller organizations that are getting going, -[1729.98 --> 1732.98] getting off the ground, and they've been a huge blessing to this church. -[1732.98 --> 1739.98] I think our church has actually quite a long history serving alongside them, and resourcing them, and also blessing them. -[1739.98 --> 1744.98] So thank you in advance for blessing the DMC this morning. -[1744.98 --> 1752.98] So any of the undesignated gifts that are put in these baskets, or in these little baggies, are for the DMC. -[1752.98 --> 1757.98] And if you want to give to the budget or anything else, please make sure that is specifically designated in envelope, -[1757.98 --> 1760.98] or on the check, or however you choose to give. -[1760.98 --> 1765.98] All of the nine espaces, can you search for a descriptive word of help, -[1765.98 --> 1771.98] and there are great connections towarz stranger singer artindooms. -[1771.98 --> 1777.98] Saman speaking -[1777.98 --> 1787.98] No place I'd rather be -[1787.98 --> 1791.98] Than here in your love -[1791.98 --> 1801.98] No place I'd rather be -[1801.98 --> 1805.98] Than here in your love -[1805.98 --> 1815.98] I want more of you, God -[1815.98 --> 1819.98] To set a fire down in my soul -[1819.98 --> 1825.98] That I can't contain and I can't control -[1825.98 --> 1829.98] I want more of you, God -[1829.98 --> 1835.80] I want more of you God. I want more of you God. -[1842.24 --> 1856.80] No place I would rather be. No place I would rather be. No place I'd rather be than here in your love. Here in your love. -[1856.80 --> 1871.98] No place I would rather be. No place I would rather be. No place I would rather be than here in your love. Here in your love. -[1871.98 --> 1878.98] So set a fire down in my soul that I can't contain, that I can't control. -[1879.60 --> 1886.12] I want more of you God. I want more of you God. -[1886.12 --> 1893.58] So set a fire down in my soul that I can't contain, that I can't control. -[1894.14 --> 1900.54] I want more of you God. I want more of you God. -[1900.54 --> 1930.52] I want more of you God. -[1930.52 --> 1934.12] So that's preschool through grade four. -[1935.08 --> 1937.80] If you're here, come on up to the front. -[1939.10 --> 1942.00] Awesome. Thank you. -[1944.18 --> 1944.62] Beautiful. -[1947.28 --> 1947.72] Excellent. -[1948.52 --> 1949.16] All right, guys. -[1949.86 --> 1953.56] It has fallen to me this morning to lead you, but I forget how we do it. -[1953.56 --> 1957.32] So when you guys come up to the front, what do we do? -[1959.56 --> 1959.92] Anyone? -[1961.26 --> 1963.10] Someone help me? Everly, do you know? -[1963.92 --> 1964.14] No? -[1965.64 --> 1966.00] Hmm. -[1966.78 --> 1967.96] Ty, I said, what about you? You know. -[1968.50 --> 1969.46] You don't know either? -[1969.58 --> 1970.40] I don't believe you. -[1971.12 --> 1972.02] I was supposed to tell a story. -[1972.44 --> 1973.68] I was supposed to tell a story? -[1974.40 --> 1975.04] Oh, no. -[1976.72 --> 1978.00] I was supposed to have a puppet. -[1978.36 --> 1978.86] Oh, yeah. -[1981.22 --> 1985.86] Unfortunately, I don't have the capacity for puppeting and talking out of that side of my mouth. -[1987.80 --> 1991.16] I think we do something like pray. -[1991.16 --> 1991.56] Pray. -[1992.26 --> 1992.66] Yeah? -[1993.32 --> 1993.96] We pray. -[1994.16 --> 1994.74] Okay, good. -[1994.84 --> 1995.34] We got one. -[1995.84 --> 1996.54] And then what else? -[1997.10 --> 1998.20] We stand, right? -[1998.60 --> 1999.50] What do we stand for? -[2001.04 --> 2001.90] Stand for praying? -[2002.06 --> 2002.32] All right. -[2002.34 --> 2002.78] I love it. -[2003.42 --> 2004.62] We're going to stand to pray. -[2004.94 --> 2006.82] And then we say a blessing, right? -[2007.84 --> 2009.22] What does that mean? -[2009.80 --> 2014.66] When you say, the Lord be with you, what do you think that means? -[2017.24 --> 2020.08] Does that maybe mean that God is with you? -[2021.10 --> 2021.54] Yeah. -[2022.20 --> 2023.48] That's exactly what that means. -[2023.48 --> 2026.18] And then they say, and also with you. -[2026.56 --> 2030.36] And that means that God is here among us and we're in his presence together. -[2031.36 --> 2032.90] That is pretty cool. -[2033.00 --> 2037.90] That's one of the amazing things about our church family coming together to worship, -[2037.90 --> 2039.66] is that God actually shows up. -[2040.46 --> 2045.40] You actually get to hear him and meet him and be present with him through all these awesome people. -[2046.02 --> 2047.80] So, we're going to follow the lead. -[2047.86 --> 2049.64] We're going to stand and pray together. -[2050.26 --> 2051.98] And then we're going to do the blessing, all right? -[2052.18 --> 2054.94] Congregation, you're also going to stand and pray with us. -[2056.22 --> 2060.76] Did you know that in church history, there was three or four postures for praying? -[2061.50 --> 2063.72] None of them were sitting in a comfortable seat. -[2064.42 --> 2067.62] They were standing or kneeling or laying prostrate. -[2067.90 --> 2068.76] Before the Lord. -[2068.96 --> 2071.38] And so, let's stand and pray together. -[2071.46 --> 2072.38] Let's pray, all right, guys? -[2073.28 --> 2079.94] Dear Jesus, we love you and we are so glad that you are here with us in worship. -[2079.94 --> 2085.86] As these kids go to learn more about you, may you speak to their hearts. -[2086.70 --> 2091.42] And as we remain here together, may you also speak to our hearts. -[2091.42 --> 2098.50] And as we all together as church family prepare to come to the table, may you fill our hearts. -[2099.18 --> 2100.46] In Jesus' name we pray. -[2101.54 --> 2101.94] Amen. -[2102.46 --> 2103.10] Good work. -[2103.16 --> 2104.48] All right, let's hold our hands up. -[2104.90 --> 2106.78] And we're going to say, the Lord be with you. -[2106.84 --> 2109.78] And then everyone else is going to respond by saying, and also with you. -[2109.88 --> 2110.08] Ready? -[2110.28 --> 2111.58] One, two, three. -[2111.96 --> 2113.82] The Lord be with you. -[2114.20 --> 2115.70] And also with you. -[2115.84 --> 2116.32] Amen. -[2116.32 --> 2116.54] Amen. -[2139.72 --> 2142.92] My name is Paul, and I'm an elder here at this church. -[2142.92 --> 2147.10] And I'd like to lead you in our family prayer. -[2147.56 --> 2155.30] But before I do that, a bit of an update from the council, the leadership board of this church. -[2155.62 --> 2161.44] We met this past Tuesday, and a few things happened there. -[2161.44 --> 2174.26] We reviewed the 2024 financial statements and approved them for presentation at our spring general meeting coming up. -[2175.48 --> 2180.26] That'll be on May the 17th, I believe. -[2181.34 --> 2184.44] So 22nd, sorry, 22nd. -[2184.44 --> 2188.84] 22nd, so hold a place on your calendar for that, please. -[2191.12 --> 2202.64] After reviewing the financial statements, we had a surplus over expenses this past year. -[2202.64 --> 2210.88] So we had a prayer of thanksgiving for that, how God has blessed this church family. -[2210.88 --> 2224.38] So that pending the approval of those financial statements, we're going to decide what we're going to do with that surplus. -[2225.44 --> 2232.78] We approved the agenda and plan for hosting the spring general meeting, which is on May the 22nd. -[2232.78 --> 2239.54] And we reviewed also the report from the town hall. -[2239.92 --> 2252.72] Hope that all you, everybody who got those, the link for that is in the bulletin for the email that you got for the meeting coming up. -[2254.06 --> 2256.24] Encourage everyone to read that. -[2256.24 --> 2265.46] And then we also approved the slate of nominees for Deacon and Elder. -[2267.02 --> 2275.90] And while I call out those names, they're up there on the screen for you to see because we didn't know for sure who would all be here. -[2277.38 --> 2281.90] For Deacon, it's Pete Birkenpass, Carolyn Spoor, and Warren for Hoof. -[2281.90 --> 2293.04] And for Elder, it's also Pete Birkenpass, Jesus Hernandez, Pim Schoen, Frank Welfing, and Sam Wind. -[2293.04 --> 2303.54] And Dick Klingelting and Brenda Alkema also agreed to extend their term for one year. -[2304.00 --> 2311.62] That's so that we get a bit more of a balance on how we call out or have to nominate names for. -[2311.62 --> 2319.82] We also received some reports from Pastor Chris and Pastor Kevin. -[2324.82 --> 2326.92] Let's go to our God in prayer. -[2326.92 --> 2343.52] Father in heaven, holy, holy, holy are you, Lord God Almighty, -[2344.22 --> 2350.32] who was and is and is to come with all creation. -[2350.84 --> 2353.50] We sing praise to you, the King of kings. -[2353.50 --> 2359.46] You are worthy to receive glory and honor and power. -[2361.00 --> 2367.56] You are everything to all, a wonderful mystery, and we adore you. -[2370.56 --> 2373.50] We give you thanks that you have given us your Son, -[2374.86 --> 2377.54] that we have the grace to stand before you. -[2377.54 --> 2382.68] Lord, we are incapable of changing ourselves, -[2383.08 --> 2387.44] but by your Spirit, work in us to make us like your Son. -[2389.30 --> 2391.28] Thank you for your mercy and grace, -[2392.08 --> 2394.24] for always being there when we need you. -[2396.44 --> 2399.94] When days are long and our hearts are troubled, -[2400.94 --> 2403.30] you are always there to walk beside us. -[2403.30 --> 2409.14] We've all come with individual and personal needs, -[2409.68 --> 2413.26] needs that we may not have shared with anyone else, -[2414.26 --> 2419.02] but you know us and the struggles and burdens we are facing. -[2421.48 --> 2424.00] Lord, we thank you for mothers this day -[2424.00 --> 2428.18] and for those that fill in as mothers. -[2430.58 --> 2432.50] They are all so much for us. -[2435.46 --> 2437.16] We thank you for new life, -[2440.16 --> 2443.66] for babies that have come into families. -[2443.66 --> 2448.66] We pray that you give us grace and strength -[2448.66 --> 2453.28] to raise these children up to follow you. -[2455.52 --> 2458.46] We pray for those that also find this day difficult -[2458.46 --> 2462.46] because of loss or strained relationships -[2462.46 --> 2465.50] or unfulfilled longing for motherhood. -[2467.80 --> 2470.54] We ask for the grace and the comfort -[2470.54 --> 2471.78] that only you can provide. -[2471.78 --> 2476.84] We pray for the Skipper family. -[2477.98 --> 2480.00] We ask that you give comfort and strength -[2480.00 --> 2481.26] to Matt and his children -[2481.26 --> 2484.72] and that you will be with the whole family -[2484.72 --> 2487.16] as they grief the loss of Rachel. -[2490.00 --> 2492.36] We ask that you will continue to be with those -[2492.36 --> 2493.56] who suffer from cancer. -[2495.36 --> 2496.52] We think of Tanya, -[2498.00 --> 2498.46] Tessa, -[2499.06 --> 2499.56] and Doug. -[2499.56 --> 2502.58] We pray that you will walk beside them -[2502.58 --> 2503.60] and their families -[2503.60 --> 2505.70] as they make their individual journeys. -[2509.04 --> 2510.98] Lord, we ask that you will continue -[2510.98 --> 2513.82] to help this church gather in your name -[2513.82 --> 2516.72] to grow in the knowledge -[2516.72 --> 2517.92] that you are with us -[2517.92 --> 2519.52] and saved us from our sins. -[2521.24 --> 2522.40] Help us to go -[2522.40 --> 2525.22] out into the community around us -[2525.22 --> 2526.48] and share your love. -[2529.48 --> 2530.80] We pray hear us. -[2533.44 --> 2535.32] Look at the list of our concerns. -[2536.34 --> 2537.56] We know that you knew it -[2537.56 --> 2538.80] before we wrote it down. -[2540.38 --> 2542.28] And we know you better than us -[2542.28 --> 2543.44] that we... -[2543.44 --> 2546.06] what must be prayed -[2546.06 --> 2548.66] in each of these circumstances. -[2550.22 --> 2551.96] We ask that your Holy Spirit -[2551.96 --> 2553.34] completes that for us. -[2555.86 --> 2558.10] As we hear your word for us this morning, -[2558.26 --> 2559.52] preached by Pastor Chris, -[2560.46 --> 2563.36] fill our hearts with your will and purposes -[2563.36 --> 2564.70] by your Holy Spirit -[2564.70 --> 2568.46] so that your kingdom will advance through us. -[2568.46 --> 2570.18] your Holy Name -[2570.18 --> 2571.38] will be glorified -[2571.38 --> 2574.58] and the story of your great name -[2574.58 --> 2576.28] is spread through us. -[2577.74 --> 2579.84] The story of amazing love, -[2580.72 --> 2581.88] the light of the world -[2581.88 --> 2582.90] given for us. -[2585.38 --> 2586.82] Father, we pray that our eyes -[2586.82 --> 2588.04] would be fixed on Jesus. -[2588.56 --> 2589.80] We pray that by your Spirit -[2589.80 --> 2591.36] you might bring it into our hearts -[2591.36 --> 2591.94] to believe -[2591.94 --> 2593.48] and to trust in you. -[2594.32 --> 2595.66] For all these things we pray -[2595.66 --> 2597.02] because of your Holy Name. -[2597.98 --> 2598.26] Amen. -[2598.46 --> 2598.96] Amen. -[2620.30 --> 2623.64] This morning we will continue -[2623.64 --> 2624.64] in our series -[2624.64 --> 2626.42] through Thessalonians -[2626.42 --> 2628.24] although we're making a bit -[2628.24 --> 2628.86] of a shift -[2628.86 --> 2630.38] in that we're starting -[2630.38 --> 2631.60] the second letter -[2631.60 --> 2632.92] to the Thessalonians -[2632.92 --> 2634.32] and so we're going to -[2634.32 --> 2635.62] in just a moment -[2635.62 --> 2636.66] read together -[2636.66 --> 2639.48] from 2 Thessalonians -[2639.48 --> 2641.38] 1 through -[2641.38 --> 2642.58] chapter 1 -[2642.58 --> 2643.38] verse 1 -[2643.38 --> 2645.40] through the first part -[2645.40 --> 2646.02] of verse 7. -[2646.74 --> 2647.64] I encourage you to -[2647.64 --> 2648.70] have that open -[2648.70 --> 2649.26] in front of you -[2649.26 --> 2650.22] whether on a device -[2650.22 --> 2651.12] or in a Bible -[2651.12 --> 2652.18] if you would like to hang on -[2652.18 --> 2652.68] to a Bible -[2652.68 --> 2653.42] but don't have one -[2653.42 --> 2654.00] there's a couple -[2654.00 --> 2655.66] a few at the back there -[2655.66 --> 2656.10] you're welcome -[2656.10 --> 2656.76] to grab one -[2656.76 --> 2657.20] from there -[2657.20 --> 2658.66] open it up -[2658.66 --> 2659.36] the first time -[2659.36 --> 2659.98] we go through -[2659.98 --> 2661.42] it will be on the screen -[2661.42 --> 2662.38] behind me -[2662.38 --> 2664.96] let's read God's Word -[2664.96 --> 2665.60] together -[2665.60 --> 2669.14] Paul -[2669.14 --> 2670.02] Silas -[2670.02 --> 2670.82] and Timothy -[2670.82 --> 2672.40] to the church -[2672.40 --> 2673.64] of the Thessalonians -[2673.64 --> 2674.48] in God -[2674.48 --> 2675.38] our Father -[2675.38 --> 2676.26] and the Lord -[2676.26 --> 2677.16] Jesus Christ -[2677.16 --> 2679.34] grace and peace -[2679.34 --> 2679.88] to you -[2679.88 --> 2680.54] from God -[2680.54 --> 2681.06] the Father -[2681.06 --> 2681.82] and the Lord -[2681.82 --> 2682.66] Jesus Christ -[2682.66 --> 2684.72] we ought always -[2684.72 --> 2685.92] to thank God -[2685.92 --> 2686.38] for you -[2686.38 --> 2687.48] brothers and sisters -[2687.48 --> 2689.40] and rightly so -[2689.40 --> 2690.36] because your faith -[2690.36 --> 2690.96] is growing -[2690.96 --> 2692.14] more and more -[2692.14 --> 2693.14] and the love -[2693.14 --> 2694.16] all of you have -[2694.16 --> 2694.84] for one another -[2694.84 --> 2695.64] is increasing -[2695.64 --> 2697.20] therefore -[2697.20 --> 2698.94] among God's churches -[2698.94 --> 2699.96] we boast -[2699.96 --> 2701.48] about your perseverance -[2701.48 --> 2702.64] and faith -[2702.64 --> 2704.10] in all the persecutions -[2704.10 --> 2704.78] and trials -[2704.78 --> 2705.92] you are enduring -[2705.92 --> 2708.16] all this -[2708.16 --> 2708.98] is evidence -[2708.98 --> 2710.50] that God's judgment -[2710.50 --> 2711.56] is right -[2711.56 --> 2713.18] and as a result -[2713.18 --> 2714.38] you will be counted -[2714.38 --> 2715.68] worthy of the kingdom -[2715.68 --> 2716.28] of God -[2716.28 --> 2718.02] for which you are suffering -[2718.02 --> 2720.58] God is just -[2720.58 --> 2722.44] he will pay back -[2722.44 --> 2723.80] to those who trouble you -[2723.80 --> 2725.00] and give relief -[2725.00 --> 2725.60] to you -[2725.60 --> 2726.44] who are troubled -[2726.44 --> 2728.16] and to us -[2728.16 --> 2729.36] as well -[2729.36 --> 2731.14] this is the word -[2731.14 --> 2731.58] of the Lord -[2731.58 --> 2738.00] now I want to begin -[2738.00 --> 2738.56] this morning -[2738.56 --> 2740.64] by saying something -[2740.64 --> 2741.60] that shouldn't -[2741.60 --> 2742.28] be controversial -[2742.28 --> 2743.40] in a church -[2743.40 --> 2745.78] and yet is controversial -[2745.78 --> 2747.16] to people -[2747.16 --> 2748.50] outside of a church -[2748.50 --> 2750.86] and in fact -[2750.86 --> 2752.14] may be -[2752.14 --> 2753.50] functionally -[2753.50 --> 2754.60] controversial -[2754.60 --> 2755.94] in your own life -[2755.94 --> 2757.40] you ready -[2757.40 --> 2760.20] God -[2760.20 --> 2761.38] is -[2761.38 --> 2762.48] real -[2762.48 --> 2766.46] God -[2766.46 --> 2767.36] is -[2767.36 --> 2768.22] active -[2768.22 --> 2770.32] in this world -[2770.32 --> 2773.54] and God -[2773.54 --> 2774.52] is active -[2774.52 --> 2775.66] in -[2775.66 --> 2776.56] your -[2776.56 --> 2777.54] life -[2777.54 --> 2779.52] now like we said -[2779.52 --> 2780.06] that shouldn't be -[2780.06 --> 2780.92] controversial here -[2780.92 --> 2782.04] four of you -[2782.04 --> 2782.96] should have said amen -[2782.96 --> 2783.80] by now -[2783.80 --> 2786.36] okay three of you -[2786.36 --> 2786.66] tried -[2786.66 --> 2787.14] good work -[2787.14 --> 2790.02] but it is -[2790.02 --> 2790.50] controversial -[2790.50 --> 2791.26] in a world -[2791.26 --> 2792.06] that doesn't believe -[2792.06 --> 2792.56] in God -[2792.56 --> 2793.86] or that doesn't believe -[2793.86 --> 2794.36] in the God -[2794.36 --> 2794.88] of the Bible -[2794.88 --> 2795.58] that refuses -[2795.58 --> 2797.30] to believe in God -[2797.30 --> 2798.56] and maybe -[2798.56 --> 2800.56] it's convicting -[2800.56 --> 2802.14] to your life -[2802.14 --> 2803.58] that professes -[2803.58 --> 2804.26] with your lips -[2804.26 --> 2805.22] that God is real -[2805.22 --> 2807.02] but then lives -[2807.02 --> 2808.06] in fear -[2808.06 --> 2809.22] and without trust -[2809.22 --> 2809.82] day in -[2809.82 --> 2810.42] and day out -[2810.42 --> 2811.28] like he's not -[2811.28 --> 2813.74] like he isn't -[2813.74 --> 2814.12] walking -[2814.12 --> 2815.26] with you -[2815.26 --> 2815.92] and preparing -[2815.92 --> 2816.88] a way for you -[2816.88 --> 2817.58] like he isn't -[2817.58 --> 2817.92] guiding -[2817.92 --> 2818.62] and sustaining -[2818.62 --> 2819.66] and upholding -[2819.66 --> 2820.14] you -[2820.14 --> 2820.82] like he isn't -[2820.82 --> 2821.30] giving you -[2821.30 --> 2823.56] everything you need -[2823.56 --> 2824.14] for faith -[2824.14 --> 2825.22] and godliness -[2825.22 --> 2826.18] like he hasn't -[2826.18 --> 2827.22] prepared a way -[2827.22 --> 2827.80] for you -[2827.80 --> 2830.34] God -[2830.34 --> 2831.40] is -[2831.40 --> 2832.38] real -[2832.38 --> 2833.18] and he -[2833.18 --> 2834.48] is at work -[2834.48 --> 2835.20] in -[2835.20 --> 2836.12] the world -[2836.12 --> 2838.16] and the way -[2838.16 --> 2838.90] we see God -[2838.90 --> 2839.38] at work -[2839.38 --> 2840.30] in the world -[2840.30 --> 2841.24] primarily -[2841.24 --> 2842.36] not the only way -[2842.36 --> 2843.14] but primarily -[2843.14 --> 2844.32] first -[2844.32 --> 2846.70] is through his church -[2846.70 --> 2849.32] is through his people -[2849.32 --> 2851.34] through you -[2851.34 --> 2852.64] and me -[2852.64 --> 2854.06] however humbly -[2854.06 --> 2855.10] and feebly -[2855.10 --> 2856.22] we try -[2856.22 --> 2857.50] the reality -[2857.50 --> 2858.46] is -[2858.46 --> 2859.90] the amazing -[2859.90 --> 2860.98] power of God -[2860.98 --> 2861.82] is made known -[2861.82 --> 2862.54] to the world -[2862.54 --> 2864.20] through the church -[2864.20 --> 2866.16] and so -[2866.16 --> 2866.60] reading -[2866.60 --> 2867.24] Paul -[2867.24 --> 2867.88] today -[2867.88 --> 2869.48] our big idea -[2869.48 --> 2870.24] our theme -[2870.24 --> 2871.12] to explore -[2871.12 --> 2872.10] is that -[2872.10 --> 2872.78] a church -[2872.78 --> 2874.34] grounded in faith -[2874.34 --> 2875.70] will be fruitful -[2875.70 --> 2877.24] in its work -[2877.24 --> 2879.14] and then the -[2879.14 --> 2880.44] parenthetic remark -[2880.44 --> 2881.00] behind that -[2881.00 --> 2881.38] because -[2881.38 --> 2882.66] God is real -[2882.66 --> 2884.38] because -[2884.38 --> 2886.04] God is at work -[2886.04 --> 2888.62] now we started -[2888.62 --> 2889.54] in this letter -[2889.54 --> 2891.12] the way -[2891.12 --> 2892.48] all ancient letters -[2892.48 --> 2893.22] started -[2893.22 --> 2894.72] with the names -[2894.72 --> 2895.56] of the author -[2895.56 --> 2896.92] the one -[2896.92 --> 2897.94] whose names -[2897.94 --> 2898.98] and authorities -[2898.98 --> 2900.14] stand behind -[2900.14 --> 2900.96] the content -[2900.96 --> 2902.28] so we read -[2902.28 --> 2902.80] Paul -[2902.80 --> 2903.66] Silas -[2903.66 --> 2904.70] and Timothy -[2904.70 --> 2907.16] now just a quick -[2907.16 --> 2907.68] reminder -[2907.68 --> 2908.24] Paul -[2908.24 --> 2908.78] Silas -[2908.78 --> 2909.36] and Timothy -[2909.36 --> 2910.92] are missionaries -[2910.92 --> 2913.04] to the church -[2913.04 --> 2914.16] in Thessalonica -[2914.16 --> 2915.58] which is in -[2915.58 --> 2916.46] modern day Greece -[2916.46 --> 2917.42] we have a map -[2917.42 --> 2918.30] just to remind us -[2918.30 --> 2918.90] where we're at -[2918.90 --> 2921.04] and after preaching -[2921.04 --> 2921.84] and teaching -[2921.84 --> 2923.56] for three weeks -[2923.56 --> 2924.20] there -[2924.20 --> 2925.80] they had to flee -[2925.80 --> 2927.44] because of -[2927.44 --> 2928.16] persecution -[2928.16 --> 2929.24] and trouble -[2929.24 --> 2930.00] with the local -[2930.00 --> 2930.60] authorities -[2930.60 --> 2932.84] and for a brief -[2932.84 --> 2933.32] time -[2933.32 --> 2933.80] Paul -[2933.80 --> 2934.66] and then Silas -[2934.66 --> 2935.16] and Timothy -[2935.16 --> 2936.14] had to separate -[2936.14 --> 2937.36] and Paul -[2937.36 --> 2938.02] made his way -[2938.02 --> 2938.84] down to Corinth -[2938.84 --> 2940.28] and eventually -[2940.28 --> 2941.34] Silas and Timothy -[2941.34 --> 2942.46] rejoin him -[2942.46 --> 2943.52] and when they do -[2943.52 --> 2944.86] they bring an update -[2944.86 --> 2946.22] of what was happening -[2946.22 --> 2947.46] back in Thessalonica -[2947.46 --> 2948.70] and that's what -[2948.70 --> 2949.48] causes Paul -[2949.48 --> 2950.56] to write his first -[2950.56 --> 2951.28] letter to them -[2951.28 --> 2952.58] first Thessalonians -[2952.58 --> 2954.44] the second letter -[2954.44 --> 2954.96] the one that we're -[2954.96 --> 2955.58] starting today -[2955.58 --> 2956.72] was probably written -[2956.72 --> 2957.90] only a few months -[2957.90 --> 2958.32] later -[2958.32 --> 2960.28] after the first one -[2960.28 --> 2961.44] most likely -[2961.44 --> 2963.10] after those people -[2963.10 --> 2964.64] who had delivered -[2964.64 --> 2965.64] the first letter -[2965.64 --> 2966.56] to the church -[2966.56 --> 2967.50] in Thessalonica -[2967.50 --> 2969.02] and then turned around -[2969.02 --> 2969.68] and returned -[2969.68 --> 2970.58] to Paul -[2970.58 --> 2971.16] while he was -[2971.16 --> 2972.02] in Corinth -[2972.02 --> 2973.20] and brought an update -[2973.20 --> 2974.26] of what was happening -[2974.26 --> 2974.60] there -[2974.60 --> 2976.20] an update about -[2976.20 --> 2977.00] how the persecution -[2977.00 --> 2977.90] they were experiencing -[2977.90 --> 2978.70] was getting worse -[2978.70 --> 2980.60] and so Paul -[2980.60 --> 2981.08] is moved -[2981.08 --> 2982.32] to write to them again -[2982.32 --> 2983.36] so he writes -[2983.36 --> 2984.10] to the church -[2984.10 --> 2985.40] of the Thessalonians -[2985.40 --> 2986.56] in God -[2986.56 --> 2987.28] our Father -[2987.28 --> 2988.10] and the Lord -[2988.10 --> 2989.28] Jesus Christ -[2989.28 --> 2991.60] now for our purposes -[2991.60 --> 2992.14] this morning -[2992.14 --> 2992.78] what I want us -[2992.78 --> 2993.28] to see -[2993.28 --> 2994.74] right in these -[2994.74 --> 2995.68] opening words -[2995.68 --> 2996.58] is where Paul -[2996.58 --> 2996.98] says -[2996.98 --> 2997.60] God -[2997.60 --> 2998.72] our -[2998.72 --> 3000.16] Father -[3000.16 --> 3002.74] this is how -[3002.74 --> 3003.84] you can talk -[3003.84 --> 3004.38] to God -[3004.38 --> 3005.50] when you believe -[3005.50 --> 3007.86] as your Father -[3007.86 --> 3010.82] now in 1 Thessalonians -[3010.82 --> 3011.26] Paul -[3011.26 --> 3012.42] opened up -[3012.42 --> 3013.36] by saying -[3013.36 --> 3013.84] God -[3013.84 --> 3014.62] the Father -[3014.62 --> 3015.58] and the Lord -[3015.58 --> 3016.66] Jesus Christ -[3016.66 --> 3017.76] and in that letter -[3017.76 --> 3018.34] in there -[3018.34 --> 3019.74] he's making a claim -[3019.74 --> 3020.80] about God's -[3020.80 --> 3021.76] triune nature -[3021.76 --> 3022.68] and about his -[3022.68 --> 3023.88] special relationship -[3023.88 --> 3024.70] as Father -[3024.70 --> 3025.82] to Jesus -[3025.82 --> 3026.66] the Son -[3026.66 --> 3027.96] and now -[3027.96 --> 3029.30] in the second letter -[3029.30 --> 3030.18] he's adding -[3030.18 --> 3031.92] to our experience -[3031.92 --> 3032.52] of God -[3032.52 --> 3033.28] by saying -[3033.28 --> 3033.92] that because -[3033.92 --> 3035.38] of Jesus -[3035.38 --> 3036.84] he is -[3036.84 --> 3037.74] your Father -[3037.74 --> 3038.32] too -[3038.32 --> 3038.72] God -[3038.72 --> 3039.38] is your -[3039.38 --> 3039.86] Father -[3039.86 --> 3040.42] too -[3040.42 --> 3041.08] you are -[3041.08 --> 3041.88] his sons -[3041.88 --> 3042.90] and daughters -[3042.90 --> 3044.22] Paul's doing -[3044.22 --> 3045.08] the same thing -[3045.08 --> 3046.02] that Jesus -[3046.02 --> 3046.50] did -[3046.50 --> 3047.14] when he taught -[3047.14 --> 3047.82] his disciples -[3047.82 --> 3048.36] to pray -[3048.36 --> 3049.72] right -[3049.72 --> 3050.68] in Matthew 6 -[3050.68 --> 3051.60] Jesus teaches -[3051.60 --> 3052.30] his disciples -[3052.30 --> 3052.90] to pray -[3052.90 --> 3054.32] our Father -[3054.32 --> 3055.16] in heaven -[3055.16 --> 3056.20] hallowed -[3056.20 --> 3056.98] be your name -[3056.98 --> 3059.16] our Father -[3059.16 --> 3060.50] God -[3060.50 --> 3061.60] is your Father -[3061.60 --> 3062.26] and Jesus -[3062.26 --> 3063.28] is your brother -[3063.28 --> 3064.72] if you believe -[3064.72 --> 3065.58] if you are -[3065.58 --> 3066.38] born again -[3066.38 --> 3067.00] if you -[3067.00 --> 3068.38] confess with your lips -[3068.38 --> 3069.00] and believe -[3069.00 --> 3069.82] in your hearts -[3069.82 --> 3070.42] that Jesus -[3070.42 --> 3071.04] is Lord -[3071.04 --> 3071.68] and that God -[3071.68 --> 3072.36] raised him -[3072.36 --> 3073.28] from the dead -[3073.28 --> 3074.90] if that's you -[3074.90 --> 3075.74] then Jesus -[3075.74 --> 3076.48] is your brother -[3076.48 --> 3077.04] and you have -[3077.04 --> 3077.50] a Father -[3077.50 --> 3078.06] in heaven -[3078.06 --> 3079.54] and this -[3079.54 --> 3080.36] changes -[3080.36 --> 3081.44] how you pray -[3081.44 --> 3082.94] right -[3082.94 --> 3083.76] even if you -[3083.76 --> 3084.16] have had -[3084.16 --> 3084.68] the most -[3084.68 --> 3085.54] excellent -[3085.54 --> 3087.12] earthly fathers -[3087.12 --> 3088.44] your heavenly -[3088.44 --> 3088.94] Father -[3088.94 --> 3090.16] is matchless -[3090.16 --> 3091.48] and incomparable -[3091.48 --> 3092.64] right -[3092.64 --> 3093.66] even the best -[3093.66 --> 3094.68] earthly fathers -[3094.68 --> 3095.64] are a pale -[3095.64 --> 3096.22] reflection -[3096.22 --> 3097.28] of our heavenly -[3097.28 --> 3097.70] Father -[3097.70 --> 3099.96] but especially -[3099.96 --> 3101.38] especially -[3101.38 --> 3102.32] if you had -[3102.32 --> 3103.36] an earthly -[3103.36 --> 3103.80] father -[3103.80 --> 3104.46] who failed -[3104.46 --> 3104.80] you -[3104.80 --> 3106.50] our heavenly -[3106.50 --> 3106.90] Father -[3106.90 --> 3107.60] never will -[3107.60 --> 3109.44] right -[3109.44 --> 3110.40] this is -[3110.40 --> 3111.20] who we -[3111.20 --> 3112.12] pray to -[3112.12 --> 3112.60] these are -[3112.60 --> 3113.38] the characteristics -[3113.38 --> 3113.94] of God -[3113.94 --> 3114.78] that we hold -[3114.78 --> 3115.46] out in our -[3115.46 --> 3115.84] prayers -[3115.84 --> 3116.06] right -[3116.06 --> 3116.44] that he is -[3116.44 --> 3117.62] slow to angry -[3117.62 --> 3118.68] and abounding -[3118.68 --> 3119.72] in love -[3119.72 --> 3121.12] right -[3121.12 --> 3121.60] these are the -[3121.60 --> 3122.14] characteristics -[3122.14 --> 3122.70] of God -[3122.70 --> 3123.38] when we pray -[3123.38 --> 3124.54] that he is -[3124.54 --> 3125.36] patient -[3125.36 --> 3126.80] with our -[3126.80 --> 3127.76] failures -[3127.76 --> 3129.62] that he -[3129.62 --> 3130.58] comforts us -[3130.58 --> 3131.80] in trouble -[3131.80 --> 3133.18] that he provides -[3133.18 --> 3133.96] for all our -[3133.96 --> 3134.38] needs -[3134.38 --> 3135.00] that he is -[3135.00 --> 3135.50] forgiving -[3135.50 --> 3136.74] and merciful -[3136.74 --> 3138.50] right -[3138.50 --> 3139.22] our Father -[3139.22 --> 3139.80] in heaven -[3139.80 --> 3140.84] is forever -[3140.84 --> 3141.96] faithful -[3141.96 --> 3143.30] and unchanging -[3143.30 --> 3144.56] you can trust -[3144.56 --> 3144.94] him -[3144.94 --> 3146.64] and all of -[3146.64 --> 3147.00] that -[3147.00 --> 3147.18] right -[3147.18 --> 3147.50] you see -[3147.50 --> 3147.88] it behind -[3147.88 --> 3148.04] me -[3148.04 --> 3148.48] all of -[3148.48 --> 3148.64] that -[3148.64 --> 3149.30] goes -[3149.30 --> 3149.78] into -[3149.78 --> 3150.10] that -[3150.10 --> 3150.36] little -[3150.36 --> 3151.04] phrase -[3151.04 --> 3151.70] our -[3151.70 --> 3152.26] Father -[3152.26 --> 3153.48] all of -[3153.48 --> 3153.70] that -[3153.70 --> 3153.90] is -[3153.90 --> 3154.48] packed -[3154.48 --> 3154.92] into -[3154.92 --> 3155.14] the -[3155.14 --> 3155.46] words -[3155.46 --> 3155.78] our -[3155.78 --> 3156.26] Father -[3156.26 --> 3157.14] when you -[3157.14 --> 3157.48] pray -[3157.48 --> 3159.38] and so -[3159.38 --> 3160.14] if you were -[3160.14 --> 3160.56] here with -[3160.56 --> 3160.80] us -[3160.80 --> 3161.58] last week -[3161.58 --> 3161.96] if you -[3161.96 --> 3162.74] add -[3162.74 --> 3163.38] our -[3163.38 --> 3163.84] Father -[3163.84 --> 3164.58] to the -[3164.58 --> 3165.36] amen -[3165.36 --> 3166.04] the so -[3166.04 --> 3166.60] be it -[3166.60 --> 3167.16] the one -[3167.16 --> 3167.68] who calls -[3167.68 --> 3167.98] you is -[3167.98 --> 3168.34] faithful -[3168.34 --> 3168.70] and he -[3168.70 --> 3169.06] will do -[3169.06 --> 3169.18] it -[3169.18 --> 3169.42] that we -[3169.42 --> 3169.82] looked at -[3169.82 --> 3170.38] last week -[3170.38 --> 3170.92] right -[3170.92 --> 3171.36] now -[3171.36 --> 3171.98] you know -[3171.98 --> 3172.26] how to -[3172.26 --> 3172.64] start -[3172.64 --> 3173.16] a prayer -[3173.16 --> 3173.94] our -[3173.94 --> 3174.34] Father -[3174.34 --> 3175.54] and you -[3175.54 --> 3175.72] know how -[3175.72 --> 3176.08] to end -[3176.08 --> 3176.56] a prayer -[3176.56 --> 3178.64] the middle -[3178.64 --> 3179.04] part -[3179.04 --> 3179.78] you can -[3179.78 --> 3180.04] add -[3180.04 --> 3181.98] in fact -[3181.98 --> 3182.24] we'll get -[3182.24 --> 3182.48] to the -[3182.48 --> 3182.62] middle -[3182.62 --> 3182.84] part -[3182.84 --> 3183.12] in just -[3183.12 --> 3183.52] a second -[3183.52 --> 3184.68] Paul -[3184.68 --> 3185.22] continues -[3185.22 --> 3185.74] he says -[3185.74 --> 3186.60] grace -[3186.60 --> 3187.68] and peace -[3187.68 --> 3188.62] to you -[3188.62 --> 3190.50] now -[3190.50 --> 3191.42] some of -[3191.42 --> 3191.62] you have -[3191.62 --> 3191.92] heard me -[3191.92 --> 3192.38] say this -[3192.38 --> 3192.78] before -[3192.78 --> 3193.12] but -[3193.12 --> 3193.84] it's -[3193.84 --> 3194.54] important -[3194.54 --> 3195.08] and helpful -[3195.08 --> 3195.68] for us -[3195.68 --> 3196.10] to just -[3196.10 --> 3196.80] define -[3196.80 --> 3197.50] the word -[3197.50 --> 3198.16] grace -[3198.16 --> 3199.84] right -[3199.84 --> 3200.40] grace -[3200.40 --> 3201.24] is the -[3201.24 --> 3202.08] unmerited -[3202.08 --> 3203.08] disposition -[3203.08 --> 3204.04] of God -[3204.04 --> 3204.74] towards -[3204.74 --> 3205.28] you -[3205.28 --> 3206.44] and -[3206.44 --> 3206.74] the -[3206.74 --> 3207.48] unmerited -[3207.48 --> 3208.06] disposition -[3208.06 --> 3208.74] of God -[3208.74 --> 3210.06] for you -[3210.06 --> 3211.56] right -[3211.56 --> 3211.74] God -[3211.74 --> 3212.26] comes -[3212.26 --> 3212.86] to you -[3212.86 --> 3213.60] and he -[3213.60 --> 3213.86] is -[3213.86 --> 3214.50] for -[3214.50 --> 3215.24] you -[3215.24 --> 3216.90] and that's -[3216.90 --> 3217.36] all part -[3217.36 --> 3218.08] of who -[3218.08 --> 3218.76] he is -[3218.76 --> 3219.10] and his -[3219.10 --> 3219.72] relationship -[3219.72 --> 3220.58] to you -[3220.58 --> 3221.18] he comes -[3221.18 --> 3221.74] to you -[3221.74 --> 3222.16] before -[3222.16 --> 3222.96] you ever -[3222.96 --> 3223.38] thought -[3223.38 --> 3223.88] about -[3223.88 --> 3224.18] coming -[3224.18 --> 3224.58] to him -[3224.58 --> 3226.88] as Paul -[3226.88 --> 3227.34] says -[3227.34 --> 3228.10] elsewhere -[3228.10 --> 3228.56] he writes -[3228.56 --> 3229.06] in Romans -[3229.06 --> 3230.02] but God -[3230.02 --> 3230.62] demonstrates -[3230.62 --> 3231.46] his own -[3231.46 --> 3231.82] love -[3231.82 --> 3232.36] for us -[3232.36 --> 3233.04] in this -[3233.04 --> 3234.24] while -[3234.24 --> 3234.80] we were -[3234.80 --> 3235.20] still -[3235.20 --> 3235.82] sinners -[3235.82 --> 3237.10] Christ -[3237.10 --> 3238.04] died -[3238.04 --> 3238.80] for us -[3238.80 --> 3240.08] right -[3240.08 --> 3240.36] that's -[3240.36 --> 3240.80] grace -[3240.80 --> 3242.16] that's -[3242.16 --> 3242.52] grace -[3242.52 --> 3242.92] God -[3242.92 --> 3243.70] moves -[3243.70 --> 3244.46] towards -[3244.46 --> 3244.82] you -[3244.82 --> 3245.46] first -[3245.46 --> 3246.34] he -[3246.34 --> 3247.22] initiates -[3247.22 --> 3247.94] right -[3247.94 --> 3248.28] before -[3248.28 --> 3248.58] you -[3248.58 --> 3249.00] called -[3249.00 --> 3249.62] on him -[3249.62 --> 3249.90] he -[3249.90 --> 3250.46] calls -[3250.46 --> 3251.10] you -[3251.10 --> 3251.62] he -[3251.62 --> 3252.14] draws -[3252.14 --> 3252.48] you -[3252.48 --> 3252.74] to -[3252.74 --> 3253.26] himself -[3253.26 --> 3255.40] and -[3255.40 --> 3255.52] then -[3255.52 --> 3255.88] after -[3255.88 --> 3256.36] grace -[3256.36 --> 3257.16] after -[3257.16 --> 3257.64] grace -[3257.64 --> 3258.14] comes -[3258.14 --> 3259.06] peace -[3259.06 --> 3261.78] that -[3261.78 --> 3262.04] order -[3262.04 --> 3262.24] is -[3262.24 --> 3262.78] important -[3262.78 --> 3264.12] God -[3264.12 --> 3264.58] draws -[3264.58 --> 3264.74] you -[3264.74 --> 3264.90] to -[3264.90 --> 3265.34] himself -[3265.34 --> 3265.56] and -[3265.56 --> 3265.74] his -[3265.74 --> 3266.10] grace -[3266.10 --> 3266.40] and -[3266.40 --> 3266.54] the -[3266.54 --> 3266.98] result -[3266.98 --> 3267.24] of -[3267.24 --> 3267.62] being -[3267.62 --> 3268.16] in -[3268.16 --> 3268.74] relationship -[3268.74 --> 3269.04] with -[3269.04 --> 3269.36] God -[3269.36 --> 3269.94] is -[3269.94 --> 3270.70] peace -[3270.70 --> 3270.98] now -[3270.98 --> 3271.56] again -[3271.56 --> 3272.18] peace -[3272.18 --> 3272.62] here -[3272.62 --> 3272.92] is -[3272.92 --> 3273.30] more -[3273.30 --> 3273.60] than -[3273.60 --> 3274.04] just -[3274.04 --> 3274.48] the -[3274.48 --> 3274.98] absence -[3274.98 --> 3275.24] of -[3275.24 --> 3276.00] conflict -[3276.00 --> 3276.86] peace -[3276.86 --> 3277.14] is -[3277.14 --> 3277.48] more -[3277.48 --> 3277.70] than -[3277.70 --> 3278.06] just -[3278.06 --> 3278.38] inner -[3278.38 --> 3278.78] calm -[3278.78 --> 3279.06] although -[3279.06 --> 3279.26] I -[3279.26 --> 3279.40] know -[3279.40 --> 3279.72] a lot -[3279.72 --> 3279.84] of -[3279.84 --> 3279.98] us -[3279.98 --> 3280.14] could -[3280.14 --> 3280.38] use -[3280.38 --> 3280.52] a -[3280.52 --> 3280.62] little -[3280.62 --> 3280.76] bit -[3280.76 --> 3280.94] more -[3280.94 --> 3281.22] inner -[3281.22 --> 3281.58] calm -[3281.58 --> 3281.80] right -[3281.80 --> 3282.10] now -[3282.10 --> 3282.80] right -[3282.80 --> 3283.56] peace -[3283.56 --> 3284.08] is -[3284.08 --> 3284.66] in -[3284.66 --> 3284.80] the -[3284.80 --> 3285.38] biblical -[3285.38 --> 3285.86] sense -[3285.86 --> 3286.10] is -[3286.10 --> 3286.80] holistic -[3286.80 --> 3287.66] right -[3287.66 --> 3287.88] in -[3287.88 --> 3288.16] the -[3288.16 --> 3288.48] Hebrew -[3288.48 --> 3288.98] concept -[3288.98 --> 3289.40] it is -[3289.40 --> 3290.06] shalom -[3290.06 --> 3290.92] it means -[3290.92 --> 3291.92] wholeness -[3291.92 --> 3292.30] it is -[3292.30 --> 3293.26] all of -[3293.26 --> 3293.66] life -[3293.66 --> 3294.28] lived in -[3294.28 --> 3294.92] proper -[3294.92 --> 3295.80] orientation -[3295.80 --> 3296.58] to who -[3296.58 --> 3297.26] God -[3297.26 --> 3297.96] is -[3297.96 --> 3298.24] it's -[3298.24 --> 3298.82] fullness -[3298.82 --> 3299.74] it's -[3299.74 --> 3300.10] life -[3300.10 --> 3300.44] made -[3300.44 --> 3300.82] right -[3300.82 --> 3301.18] because -[3301.18 --> 3301.56] your -[3301.56 --> 3302.14] relationship -[3302.14 --> 3302.44] with -[3302.44 --> 3302.84] God -[3302.84 --> 3303.28] has -[3303.28 --> 3303.56] been -[3303.56 --> 3304.14] made -[3304.14 --> 3304.72] right -[3304.72 --> 3305.50] peace -[3305.50 --> 3306.26] is -[3306.26 --> 3306.54] the -[3306.54 --> 3307.06] fruit -[3307.06 --> 3307.48] of -[3307.48 --> 3307.94] grace -[3307.94 --> 3309.54] right -[3309.54 --> 3309.68] it -[3309.68 --> 3310.08] starts -[3310.08 --> 3310.30] with -[3310.30 --> 3310.42] a -[3310.42 --> 3310.86] restored -[3310.86 --> 3311.48] relationship -[3311.48 --> 3311.76] with -[3311.76 --> 3312.10] God -[3312.10 --> 3312.30] and -[3312.30 --> 3312.50] from -[3312.50 --> 3312.84] there -[3312.84 --> 3313.30] it -[3313.30 --> 3313.86] flows -[3313.86 --> 3314.54] into -[3314.54 --> 3314.76] the -[3314.76 --> 3315.10] rest -[3315.10 --> 3315.58] of -[3315.58 --> 3315.72] your -[3315.72 --> 3316.06] life -[3316.06 --> 3316.22] it -[3316.22 --> 3316.58] flows -[3316.58 --> 3317.10] into -[3317.10 --> 3317.34] your -[3317.34 --> 3317.66] heart -[3317.66 --> 3317.88] and -[3317.88 --> 3318.10] into -[3318.10 --> 3318.28] your -[3318.28 --> 3318.70] mind -[3318.70 --> 3318.86] and -[3318.86 --> 3319.46] into -[3319.46 --> 3319.72] your -[3319.72 --> 3320.36] relationships -[3320.36 --> 3320.92] and -[3320.92 --> 3321.06] it -[3321.06 --> 3321.44] flows -[3321.44 --> 3321.98] even -[3321.98 --> 3322.22] to -[3322.22 --> 3322.46] how -[3322.46 --> 3322.68] you -[3322.68 --> 3323.08] endure -[3323.08 --> 3323.96] suffering -[3323.96 --> 3326.26] God -[3326.26 --> 3326.46] is -[3326.46 --> 3326.66] not -[3326.66 --> 3327.10] against -[3327.10 --> 3327.40] you -[3327.40 --> 3327.58] he -[3327.58 --> 3327.82] is -[3327.82 --> 3328.46] for -[3328.46 --> 3328.68] you -[3328.68 --> 3328.86] you -[3328.86 --> 3329.00] are -[3329.00 --> 3329.20] no -[3329.20 --> 3329.58] longer -[3329.58 --> 3329.80] an -[3329.80 --> 3330.16] enemy -[3330.16 --> 3330.50] of -[3330.50 --> 3330.96] God -[3330.96 --> 3331.18] you -[3331.18 --> 3331.36] are -[3331.36 --> 3331.60] a -[3331.60 --> 3332.26] lavishly -[3332.26 --> 3332.98] loved -[3332.98 --> 3333.86] child -[3333.86 --> 3334.60] of -[3334.60 --> 3335.06] our -[3335.06 --> 3335.96] father -[3335.96 --> 3336.98] that -[3336.98 --> 3337.92] is -[3337.92 --> 3338.88] peace -[3338.88 --> 3340.60] and -[3340.60 --> 3340.84] these -[3340.84 --> 3341.18] two -[3341.18 --> 3341.96] things -[3341.96 --> 3342.54] come -[3342.54 --> 3343.14] together -[3343.14 --> 3343.96] to -[3343.96 --> 3344.54] form -[3344.54 --> 3344.84] the -[3344.84 --> 3345.50] fundamental -[3345.50 --> 3346.12] shape -[3346.12 --> 3346.72] of -[3346.72 --> 3346.94] what -[3346.94 --> 3347.20] in -[3347.20 --> 3347.40] the -[3347.40 --> 3347.74] church -[3347.74 --> 3347.98] we -[3347.98 --> 3348.18] call -[3348.18 --> 3348.32] the -[3348.32 --> 3348.72] gospel -[3348.72 --> 3350.10] right -[3350.10 --> 3350.26] the -[3350.26 --> 3350.58] good -[3350.58 --> 3351.02] news -[3351.02 --> 3351.26] that -[3351.26 --> 3351.62] Jesus -[3351.62 --> 3352.08] lived -[3352.08 --> 3352.26] the -[3352.26 --> 3352.54] life -[3352.54 --> 3352.76] I -[3352.76 --> 3353.02] should -[3353.02 --> 3353.16] have -[3353.16 --> 3353.48] lived -[3353.48 --> 3353.66] and -[3353.66 --> 3354.02] died -[3354.02 --> 3354.20] the -[3354.20 --> 3354.46] death -[3354.46 --> 3354.86] that -[3354.86 --> 3355.00] I -[3355.00 --> 3355.50] deserved -[3355.50 --> 3355.82] because -[3355.82 --> 3356.04] of -[3356.04 --> 3356.30] sin -[3356.30 --> 3358.16] grace -[3358.16 --> 3358.46] is -[3358.46 --> 3358.82] God -[3358.82 --> 3359.32] coming -[3359.32 --> 3359.58] to -[3359.58 --> 3360.00] you -[3360.00 --> 3360.38] in -[3360.38 --> 3360.76] Jesus -[3360.76 --> 3361.08] to -[3361.08 --> 3361.34] make -[3361.34 --> 3361.66] things -[3361.66 --> 3362.08] right -[3362.08 --> 3363.04] peace -[3363.04 --> 3363.40] is -[3363.40 --> 3363.72] God -[3363.72 --> 3364.26] changing -[3364.26 --> 3364.64] you -[3364.64 --> 3364.88] so -[3364.88 --> 3365.10] that -[3365.10 --> 3365.26] you -[3365.26 --> 3365.46] can -[3365.46 --> 3365.92] live -[3365.92 --> 3366.44] right -[3366.44 --> 3368.16] the -[3368.16 --> 3368.64] gospel -[3368.64 --> 3369.00] is -[3369.00 --> 3369.30] good -[3369.30 --> 3369.70] news -[3369.70 --> 3369.98] because -[3369.98 --> 3370.20] it -[3370.20 --> 3370.50] doesn't -[3370.50 --> 3370.74] just -[3370.74 --> 3371.20] tell -[3371.20 --> 3371.60] you -[3371.60 --> 3372.12] what -[3372.12 --> 3372.50] Jesus -[3372.50 --> 3373.10] did -[3373.10 --> 3373.54] it -[3373.54 --> 3374.22] transforms -[3374.22 --> 3375.12] who -[3375.12 --> 3375.38] you -[3375.38 --> 3375.86] are -[3375.86 --> 3376.50] because -[3376.50 --> 3376.86] of -[3376.86 --> 3377.06] what -[3377.06 --> 3377.34] Jesus -[3377.34 --> 3377.76] did -[3377.76 --> 3379.28] and -[3379.28 --> 3379.44] that -[3379.44 --> 3380.00] transformation -[3380.00 --> 3380.74] makes -[3380.74 --> 3381.24] your life -[3381.24 --> 3381.52] look -[3381.52 --> 3382.10] differently -[3382.10 --> 3383.16] in -[3383.16 --> 3383.34] verse -[3383.34 --> 3383.62] 3 -[3383.62 --> 3384.20] Paul -[3384.20 --> 3384.52] writes -[3384.52 --> 3384.98] we -[3384.98 --> 3385.30] ought -[3385.30 --> 3385.88] always -[3385.88 --> 3386.12] to -[3386.12 --> 3386.46] thank -[3386.46 --> 3386.90] God -[3386.90 --> 3387.12] for -[3387.12 --> 3387.44] you -[3387.44 --> 3387.86] brothers -[3387.86 --> 3388.24] and -[3388.24 --> 3388.66] sisters -[3388.66 --> 3389.42] and -[3389.42 --> 3389.94] rightly -[3389.94 --> 3390.66] so -[3390.66 --> 3391.28] because -[3391.28 --> 3391.64] your -[3391.64 --> 3392.14] faith -[3392.14 --> 3392.40] is -[3392.40 --> 3392.80] growing -[3392.80 --> 3393.20] more -[3393.20 --> 3393.42] and -[3393.42 --> 3393.72] more -[3393.72 --> 3393.92] and -[3393.92 --> 3394.08] the -[3394.08 --> 3394.38] love -[3394.38 --> 3394.72] all -[3394.72 --> 3394.86] of -[3394.86 --> 3394.98] you -[3394.98 --> 3395.30] have -[3395.30 --> 3395.48] for -[3395.48 --> 3395.68] one -[3395.68 --> 3396.00] another -[3396.00 --> 3396.58] is -[3396.58 --> 3397.12] increasing -[3397.12 --> 3399.04] at -[3399.04 --> 3399.20] the -[3399.20 --> 3399.74] church -[3399.74 --> 3400.24] that's -[3400.24 --> 3400.36] the -[3400.36 --> 3400.66] word -[3400.66 --> 3400.88] we -[3400.88 --> 3401.24] use -[3401.24 --> 3401.40] for -[3401.40 --> 3401.56] the -[3401.56 --> 3401.98] collective -[3401.98 --> 3402.30] of -[3402.30 --> 3402.42] the -[3402.42 --> 3402.68] people -[3402.68 --> 3402.88] who -[3402.88 --> 3403.50] believe -[3403.50 --> 3403.74] in -[3403.74 --> 3404.00] Jesus -[3404.00 --> 3404.20] who -[3404.20 --> 3404.78] believe -[3404.78 --> 3404.94] in -[3404.94 --> 3405.06] their -[3405.06 --> 3405.36] hearts -[3405.36 --> 3405.46] and -[3405.46 --> 3405.80] profess -[3405.80 --> 3406.10] with -[3406.10 --> 3406.22] their -[3406.22 --> 3406.46] lips -[3406.46 --> 3406.62] that -[3406.62 --> 3406.86] Jesus -[3406.86 --> 3407.08] is -[3407.08 --> 3407.34] Lord -[3407.34 --> 3407.50] and -[3407.50 --> 3407.72] God -[3407.72 --> 3408.00] raised -[3408.00 --> 3408.10] him -[3408.10 --> 3408.22] from -[3408.22 --> 3408.36] the -[3408.36 --> 3408.56] dead -[3408.56 --> 3408.94] the -[3408.94 --> 3409.54] church -[3409.54 --> 3409.98] the -[3409.98 --> 3410.34] body -[3410.34 --> 3410.54] of -[3410.54 --> 3410.82] Jesus -[3410.82 --> 3411.28] is -[3411.28 --> 3412.20] transformed -[3412.20 --> 3412.90] by -[3412.90 --> 3413.10] that -[3413.10 --> 3413.66] profession -[3413.66 --> 3414.20] by -[3414.20 --> 3414.38] that -[3414.38 --> 3414.80] belief -[3414.80 --> 3415.98] and -[3415.98 --> 3416.18] that -[3416.18 --> 3416.70] looks -[3416.70 --> 3417.34] like -[3417.34 --> 3417.64] that -[3417.64 --> 3418.34] transformation -[3418.34 --> 3419.08] takes -[3419.08 --> 3419.30] a -[3419.30 --> 3419.66] shape -[3419.66 --> 3420.12] it -[3420.12 --> 3420.50] looks -[3420.50 --> 3421.02] like -[3421.02 --> 3421.58] growing -[3421.58 --> 3422.12] in -[3422.12 --> 3422.86] faith -[3422.86 --> 3423.08] it -[3423.08 --> 3423.40] looks -[3423.40 --> 3423.78] like -[3423.78 --> 3424.24] growing -[3424.24 --> 3424.70] in -[3424.70 --> 3425.08] love -[3425.08 --> 3425.58] for -[3425.58 --> 3425.76] one -[3425.76 --> 3426.12] another -[3426.12 --> 3426.62] and -[3426.62 --> 3426.86] so -[3426.86 --> 3427.40] Paul -[3427.40 --> 3427.88] here -[3427.88 --> 3428.24] gives -[3428.24 --> 3428.66] thanks -[3428.66 --> 3428.92] to -[3428.92 --> 3429.40] God -[3429.40 --> 3429.76] because -[3429.76 --> 3430.40] God -[3430.40 --> 3430.78] is -[3430.78 --> 3431.24] real -[3431.24 --> 3431.64] and -[3431.64 --> 3431.88] he's -[3431.88 --> 3432.06] still -[3432.06 --> 3432.20] at -[3432.20 --> 3432.36] work -[3432.36 --> 3432.48] in -[3432.48 --> 3432.58] the -[3432.58 --> 3432.88] world -[3432.88 --> 3433.48] God -[3433.48 --> 3433.68] is -[3433.68 --> 3433.86] the -[3433.86 --> 3434.12] one -[3434.12 --> 3434.32] who -[3434.32 --> 3434.62] gives -[3434.62 --> 3434.80] the -[3434.80 --> 3435.22] growth -[3435.22 --> 3436.62] and -[3436.62 --> 3437.06] the -[3437.06 --> 3437.46] first -[3437.46 --> 3437.88] part -[3437.88 --> 3438.06] of -[3438.06 --> 3438.22] our -[3438.22 --> 3438.98] transformation -[3438.98 --> 3439.78] which -[3439.78 --> 3440.06] is -[3440.06 --> 3440.24] now -[3440.24 --> 3440.42] the -[3440.42 --> 3440.68] second -[3440.68 --> 3441.00] part -[3441.00 --> 3441.16] of -[3441.16 --> 3441.30] your -[3441.30 --> 3441.64] prayer -[3441.64 --> 3442.26] right -[3442.26 --> 3442.44] if -[3442.44 --> 3442.56] the -[3442.56 --> 3442.74] first -[3442.74 --> 3442.96] part -[3442.96 --> 3443.08] is -[3443.08 --> 3443.32] our -[3443.32 --> 3443.68] father -[3443.68 --> 3443.90] the -[3443.90 --> 3444.68] second -[3444.68 --> 3444.94] part -[3444.94 --> 3445.08] of -[3445.08 --> 3445.36] prayer -[3445.36 --> 3445.92] is -[3445.92 --> 3446.96] gratitude -[3446.96 --> 3448.32] the -[3448.32 --> 3448.62] first -[3448.62 --> 3448.86] part -[3448.86 --> 3448.96] of -[3448.96 --> 3449.10] our -[3449.10 --> 3449.56] transformation -[3449.56 --> 3450.16] is -[3450.16 --> 3450.92] gratitude -[3450.92 --> 3451.92] Christian -[3451.92 --> 3452.40] life -[3452.40 --> 3452.84] Christian -[3452.84 --> 3453.16] living -[3453.16 --> 3453.48] is -[3453.48 --> 3454.06] defined -[3454.06 --> 3454.72] by -[3454.72 --> 3455.62] gratitude -[3455.62 --> 3458.42] some -[3458.42 --> 3458.58] of -[3458.58 --> 3458.68] you -[3458.68 --> 3458.88] know -[3458.88 --> 3459.24] this -[3459.24 --> 3460.40] some -[3460.40 --> 3460.52] of -[3460.52 --> 3460.62] you -[3460.62 --> 3460.84] need -[3460.84 --> 3460.98] to -[3460.98 --> 3461.16] know -[3461.16 --> 3461.52] this -[3461.52 --> 3462.90] it's -[3462.90 --> 3463.20] really -[3463.20 --> 3463.44] hard -[3463.44 --> 3463.70] to be -[3463.70 --> 3464.16] thankful -[3464.16 --> 3465.94] or -[3465.94 --> 3466.08] it's -[3466.08 --> 3466.24] really -[3466.24 --> 3466.38] hard -[3466.38 --> 3466.60] to be -[3466.60 --> 3466.98] angry -[3466.98 --> 3467.46] when -[3467.46 --> 3467.64] you're -[3467.64 --> 3468.00] thankful -[3468.00 --> 3470.74] right -[3470.74 --> 3470.94] one -[3470.94 --> 3471.20] of the -[3471.20 --> 3471.66] surest -[3471.66 --> 3471.98] ways -[3471.98 --> 3472.22] to -[3472.22 --> 3472.98] combat -[3472.98 --> 3473.40] the -[3473.40 --> 3473.76] voice -[3473.76 --> 3474.02] in -[3474.02 --> 3474.16] your -[3474.16 --> 3474.46] head -[3474.46 --> 3474.64] that -[3474.64 --> 3474.92] tries -[3474.92 --> 3475.10] to -[3475.10 --> 3475.38] pull -[3475.38 --> 3475.58] you -[3475.58 --> 3476.00] down -[3476.00 --> 3476.42] that -[3476.42 --> 3476.68] tries -[3476.68 --> 3476.90] to -[3476.90 --> 3477.28] flood -[3477.28 --> 3477.46] you -[3477.46 --> 3477.68] with -[3477.68 --> 3478.12] darkness -[3478.12 --> 3478.92] right -[3478.92 --> 3479.14] is -[3479.14 --> 3479.36] to -[3479.36 --> 3479.96] actively -[3479.96 --> 3480.58] list -[3480.58 --> 3481.20] and -[3481.20 --> 3481.70] reflect -[3481.70 --> 3482.20] upon -[3482.20 --> 3482.74] all -[3482.74 --> 3482.94] the -[3482.94 --> 3483.30] reasons -[3483.30 --> 3483.52] that -[3483.52 --> 3483.70] God -[3483.70 --> 3483.88] has -[3483.88 --> 3484.18] given -[3484.18 --> 3484.56] you -[3484.56 --> 3484.92] to -[3484.92 --> 3485.10] be -[3485.10 --> 3485.48] grateful -[3485.48 --> 3487.98] yes -[3487.98 --> 3488.30] this -[3488.30 --> 3488.60] may -[3488.60 --> 3488.84] be -[3488.84 --> 3489.26] hard -[3489.26 --> 3489.66] but -[3489.66 --> 3489.90] God -[3489.90 --> 3490.08] is -[3490.08 --> 3490.56] good -[3490.56 --> 3490.76] and -[3490.76 --> 3490.92] he -[3490.92 --> 3491.08] is -[3491.08 --> 3491.26] on -[3491.26 --> 3491.44] your -[3491.44 --> 3491.84] side -[3491.84 --> 3493.00] yeah -[3493.00 --> 3493.22] the -[3493.22 --> 3493.60] valley -[3493.60 --> 3493.76] of -[3493.76 --> 3493.90] the -[3493.90 --> 3494.22] shadow -[3494.22 --> 3494.48] of -[3494.48 --> 3494.84] death -[3494.84 --> 3495.28] can -[3495.28 --> 3495.42] be -[3495.42 --> 3495.84] dark -[3495.84 --> 3496.20] and -[3496.20 --> 3496.30] it -[3496.30 --> 3496.44] can -[3496.44 --> 3496.62] be -[3496.62 --> 3497.02] lonely -[3497.02 --> 3497.48] but -[3497.48 --> 3497.76] you -[3497.76 --> 3498.06] are -[3498.06 --> 3498.44] never -[3498.44 --> 3499.02] alone -[3499.02 --> 3499.50] the -[3499.50 --> 3499.74] light -[3499.74 --> 3499.88] of -[3499.88 --> 3500.04] the -[3500.04 --> 3500.42] world -[3500.42 --> 3500.80] walks -[3500.80 --> 3501.06] with -[3501.06 --> 3501.34] you -[3501.34 --> 3502.56] yeah -[3502.56 --> 3502.92] I -[3502.92 --> 3503.28] know -[3503.28 --> 3503.48] that -[3503.48 --> 3503.62] the -[3503.62 --> 3503.90] dark -[3503.90 --> 3504.12] night -[3504.12 --> 3504.22] of -[3504.22 --> 3504.38] the -[3504.38 --> 3504.66] soul -[3504.66 --> 3504.90] can -[3504.90 --> 3505.26] feel -[3505.26 --> 3505.78] oppressive -[3505.78 --> 3506.12] and -[3506.12 --> 3506.38] all -[3506.38 --> 3506.86] consuming -[3506.86 --> 3507.70] but -[3507.70 --> 3508.86] these -[3508.86 --> 3509.24] dry -[3509.24 --> 3509.62] bones -[3509.62 --> 3509.90] can -[3509.90 --> 3510.28] live -[3510.28 --> 3511.38] the -[3511.38 --> 3511.80] spirit -[3511.80 --> 3512.40] breathes -[3512.40 --> 3512.64] new -[3512.64 --> 3513.06] life -[3513.06 --> 3513.66] sin -[3513.66 --> 3513.96] and -[3513.96 --> 3514.24] death -[3514.24 --> 3514.44] and -[3514.44 --> 3514.60] the -[3514.60 --> 3514.88] devil -[3514.88 --> 3515.34] are -[3515.34 --> 3515.84] defeated -[3515.84 --> 3518.18] praise -[3518.18 --> 3518.40] the -[3518.40 --> 3518.74] Lord -[3518.74 --> 3520.78] and -[3520.78 --> 3521.02] here's -[3521.02 --> 3521.16] the -[3521.16 --> 3521.42] thing -[3521.42 --> 3521.66] right -[3521.66 --> 3521.88] about -[3521.88 --> 3522.40] gratitude -[3522.40 --> 3523.60] it -[3523.60 --> 3523.96] isn't -[3523.96 --> 3524.54] enough -[3524.54 --> 3525.12] to -[3525.12 --> 3525.38] be -[3525.38 --> 3526.42] generally -[3526.42 --> 3527.58] thankful -[3527.58 --> 3529.24] right -[3529.24 --> 3529.44] it's -[3529.44 --> 3529.64] not -[3529.64 --> 3529.96] enough -[3529.96 --> 3530.30] to -[3530.30 --> 3531.92] ambiguously -[3531.92 --> 3532.44] say -[3532.44 --> 3532.78] I'm -[3532.78 --> 3533.04] thankful -[3533.04 --> 3533.28] for -[3533.28 --> 3533.64] this -[3533.64 --> 3533.94] or -[3533.94 --> 3534.14] for -[3534.14 --> 3534.46] that -[3534.46 --> 3535.96] you -[3535.96 --> 3536.16] are -[3536.16 --> 3536.78] thankful -[3536.78 --> 3537.56] to -[3537.56 --> 3537.76] the -[3537.76 --> 3538.22] one -[3538.22 --> 3538.58] who -[3538.58 --> 3538.98] gives -[3538.98 --> 3539.30] it -[3539.30 --> 3540.58] right -[3540.58 --> 3540.74] we -[3540.74 --> 3540.94] give -[3540.94 --> 3541.28] thanks -[3541.28 --> 3541.50] to -[3541.50 --> 3541.90] God -[3541.90 --> 3542.16] Paul -[3542.16 --> 3542.42] says -[3542.42 --> 3542.72] and -[3542.72 --> 3543.20] rightly -[3543.20 --> 3544.06] so -[3544.06 --> 3544.66] it -[3544.66 --> 3544.80] is -[3544.80 --> 3545.16] right -[3545.16 --> 3545.40] for -[3545.40 --> 3545.62] us -[3545.62 --> 3545.82] to -[3545.82 --> 3546.02] give -[3546.02 --> 3546.38] thanks -[3546.38 --> 3546.72] because -[3546.72 --> 3547.14] God -[3547.14 --> 3547.50] is -[3547.50 --> 3547.98] real -[3547.98 --> 3548.32] and -[3548.32 --> 3548.48] he's -[3548.48 --> 3548.58] at -[3548.58 --> 3548.82] work -[3548.82 --> 3549.10] among -[3549.10 --> 3549.38] you -[3549.38 --> 3550.10] it's -[3550.10 --> 3550.36] right -[3550.36 --> 3550.56] for -[3550.56 --> 3550.72] us -[3550.72 --> 3550.88] to -[3550.88 --> 3551.02] give -[3551.02 --> 3551.28] thanks -[3551.28 --> 3551.54] because -[3551.54 --> 3551.84] God -[3551.84 --> 3552.00] is -[3552.00 --> 3552.52] here -[3552.52 --> 3553.10] it -[3553.10 --> 3553.26] is -[3553.26 --> 3553.50] right -[3553.50 --> 3553.68] for -[3553.68 --> 3553.84] us -[3553.84 --> 3553.96] to -[3553.96 --> 3554.10] give -[3554.10 --> 3554.32] thanks -[3554.32 --> 3554.56] because -[3554.56 --> 3555.02] God -[3555.02 --> 3555.52] is -[3555.52 --> 3556.04] doing -[3556.04 --> 3556.60] something -[3556.60 --> 3557.30] in -[3557.30 --> 3557.46] our -[3557.46 --> 3557.80] midst -[3557.80 --> 3558.16] and -[3558.16 --> 3558.32] in -[3558.32 --> 3558.46] our -[3558.46 --> 3558.74] day -[3558.74 --> 3560.54] how -[3560.54 --> 3560.66] do -[3560.66 --> 3560.76] we -[3560.76 --> 3560.90] know -[3560.90 --> 3561.14] God -[3561.14 --> 3561.26] is -[3561.26 --> 3561.50] doing -[3561.50 --> 3561.94] something -[3561.94 --> 3563.44] because -[3563.44 --> 3563.86] faith -[3563.86 --> 3564.12] is -[3564.12 --> 3564.44] growing -[3564.44 --> 3564.88] more -[3564.88 --> 3565.68] and -[3565.68 --> 3565.96] more -[3565.96 --> 3566.84] because -[3566.84 --> 3567.24] love -[3567.24 --> 3567.50] is -[3567.50 --> 3567.88] growing -[3567.88 --> 3568.58] more -[3568.58 --> 3569.02] and -[3569.02 --> 3569.32] more -[3569.32 --> 3569.92] faith -[3569.92 --> 3570.16] and -[3570.16 --> 3570.44] love -[3570.44 --> 3570.82] both -[3570.82 --> 3571.18] come -[3571.18 --> 3571.46] from -[3571.46 --> 3571.82] God -[3571.82 --> 3572.18] and -[3572.18 --> 3572.30] so -[3572.30 --> 3572.46] you -[3572.46 --> 3572.78] know -[3572.78 --> 3573.04] he -[3573.04 --> 3573.26] is -[3573.26 --> 3573.48] at -[3573.48 --> 3573.92] work -[3573.92 --> 3574.62] because -[3574.62 --> 3575.06] faith -[3575.06 --> 3575.34] and -[3575.34 --> 3575.68] love -[3575.68 --> 3575.90] are -[3575.90 --> 3576.40] working -[3576.40 --> 3577.76] faith -[3577.76 --> 3578.04] is -[3578.04 --> 3578.44] growing -[3578.44 --> 3578.80] and -[3578.80 --> 3579.20] love -[3579.20 --> 3579.88] is -[3579.88 --> 3580.68] living -[3580.68 --> 3582.14] I -[3582.14 --> 3582.46] love -[3582.46 --> 3582.96] to -[3582.96 --> 3583.32] hear -[3583.32 --> 3583.56] and -[3583.56 --> 3583.72] to -[3583.72 --> 3584.00] share -[3584.00 --> 3584.66] stories -[3584.66 --> 3585.16] about -[3585.16 --> 3585.44] God -[3585.44 --> 3585.74] doing -[3585.74 --> 3586.18] this -[3586.18 --> 3586.64] among -[3586.64 --> 3586.94] us -[3586.94 --> 3587.12] and -[3587.12 --> 3587.22] in -[3587.22 --> 3587.32] the -[3587.32 --> 3587.50] world -[3587.50 --> 3587.84] today -[3587.84 --> 3589.40] this -[3589.40 --> 3589.70] week -[3589.70 --> 3590.74] this -[3590.74 --> 3591.02] past -[3591.02 --> 3591.22] week -[3591.22 --> 3591.38] it -[3591.38 --> 3591.52] was -[3591.52 --> 3591.80] so -[3591.80 --> 3592.76] cool -[3592.76 --> 3593.32] and -[3593.32 --> 3593.44] a -[3593.44 --> 3593.58] neat -[3593.58 --> 3594.10] opportunity -[3594.10 --> 3594.48] I -[3594.48 --> 3594.62] had -[3594.62 --> 3594.76] the -[3594.76 --> 3595.12] chance -[3595.12 --> 3595.44] to -[3595.44 --> 3596.30] visit -[3596.30 --> 3596.82] with -[3596.82 --> 3597.10] a -[3597.10 --> 3597.60] pastor -[3597.60 --> 3598.44] from -[3598.44 --> 3599.02] Sierra -[3599.02 --> 3599.56] Leone -[3599.56 --> 3600.38] his -[3600.38 --> 3600.54] name -[3600.54 --> 3600.68] is -[3600.68 --> 3601.04] Reverend -[3601.04 --> 3601.70] Moses -[3601.70 --> 3602.26] Jawara -[3602.26 --> 3603.44] he -[3603.44 --> 3603.68] is -[3603.68 --> 3603.88] the -[3603.88 --> 3604.32] president -[3604.32 --> 3604.78] of -[3604.78 --> 3604.94] the -[3604.94 --> 3605.28] Christian -[3605.28 --> 3605.74] Reformed -[3605.74 --> 3606.22] Church -[3606.22 --> 3606.52] in -[3606.52 --> 3606.92] Sierra -[3606.92 --> 3607.36] Leone -[3607.36 --> 3609.12] before -[3609.12 --> 3609.42] he -[3609.42 --> 3609.74] became -[3609.74 --> 3609.90] a -[3609.90 --> 3610.20] Christian -[3610.20 --> 3610.48] he -[3610.48 --> 3610.68] was -[3610.68 --> 3610.84] a -[3610.84 --> 3611.28] devoted -[3611.28 --> 3612.48] Muslim -[3612.48 --> 3612.86] and -[3612.86 --> 3613.36] anti -[3613.36 --> 3613.90] Christian -[3613.90 --> 3615.86] in -[3615.86 --> 3616.10] the -[3616.10 --> 3616.34] way -[3616.34 --> 3616.60] he -[3616.60 --> 3617.16] lived -[3617.16 --> 3617.58] and -[3617.58 --> 3618.20] worked -[3618.20 --> 3619.92] and -[3619.92 --> 3620.34] then -[3620.34 --> 3621.36] at -[3621.36 --> 3621.76] a -[3621.76 --> 3622.16] rally -[3622.16 --> 3623.14] he -[3623.14 --> 3623.54] came -[3623.54 --> 3623.76] to -[3623.76 --> 3624.20] hear -[3624.20 --> 3624.66] and -[3624.66 --> 3625.18] believe -[3625.18 --> 3625.76] Jesus -[3625.76 --> 3626.12] and -[3626.12 --> 3626.26] he -[3626.26 --> 3626.64] left -[3626.64 --> 3626.92] his -[3626.92 --> 3627.20] group -[3627.20 --> 3627.46] of -[3627.46 --> 3627.86] friends -[3627.86 --> 3628.52] and -[3628.52 --> 3628.82] walked -[3628.82 --> 3629.00] up -[3629.00 --> 3629.12] to -[3629.12 --> 3629.28] the -[3629.28 --> 3629.64] front -[3629.64 --> 3630.04] and -[3630.04 --> 3630.46] accepted -[3630.46 --> 3630.72] him -[3630.72 --> 3630.86] as -[3630.86 --> 3631.00] his -[3631.00 --> 3631.18] Lord -[3631.18 --> 3631.36] and -[3631.36 --> 3631.60] Savior -[3631.60 --> 3634.48] and -[3634.48 --> 3634.60] what -[3634.60 --> 3634.72] he -[3634.72 --> 3635.00] told -[3635.00 --> 3635.30] me -[3635.30 --> 3636.52] is -[3636.52 --> 3636.86] that -[3636.86 --> 3637.54] the -[3637.54 --> 3637.90] Christian -[3637.90 --> 3638.38] Reformed -[3638.38 --> 3638.94] Church -[3638.94 --> 3639.28] in -[3639.28 --> 3639.64] Sierra -[3639.64 --> 3640.12] Leone -[3640.12 --> 3640.54] is -[3640.54 --> 3640.80] now -[3640.80 --> 3641.32] growing -[3641.32 --> 3642.12] in -[3642.12 --> 3642.42] leaps -[3642.42 --> 3642.62] and -[3642.62 --> 3643.80] bounds -[3643.80 --> 3644.38] because -[3644.38 --> 3644.60] it -[3644.60 --> 3644.80] is -[3644.80 --> 3645.54] starting -[3645.54 --> 3646.24] schools -[3646.24 --> 3646.66] in -[3646.66 --> 3647.24] communities -[3647.24 --> 3648.18] and -[3648.18 --> 3648.30] it -[3648.30 --> 3648.48] is -[3648.48 --> 3648.86] training -[3648.86 --> 3649.26] women -[3649.26 --> 3649.56] for -[3649.56 --> 3649.94] small -[3649.94 --> 3650.38] business -[3650.38 --> 3651.08] opportunities -[3651.08 --> 3653.04] and -[3653.04 --> 3653.16] then -[3653.16 --> 3653.36] it's -[3653.36 --> 3653.76] gathering -[3653.76 --> 3654.18] those -[3654.18 --> 3654.46] two -[3654.46 --> 3654.94] groups -[3654.94 --> 3655.22] and -[3655.22 --> 3655.58] saying -[3655.58 --> 3655.98] now -[3655.98 --> 3656.18] let's -[3656.18 --> 3656.30] get -[3656.30 --> 3656.56] together -[3656.56 --> 3656.76] on -[3656.76 --> 3657.06] Sunday -[3657.06 --> 3658.40] and -[3658.40 --> 3658.50] then -[3658.50 --> 3658.64] they -[3658.64 --> 3658.78] do -[3658.78 --> 3658.96] so -[3658.96 --> 3659.10] for -[3659.10 --> 3659.28] about -[3659.28 --> 3659.58] six -[3659.58 --> 3660.00] hours -[3660.00 --> 3661.28] so -[3661.28 --> 3661.42] when -[3661.42 --> 3661.58] we -[3661.58 --> 3661.70] hit -[3661.70 --> 3661.82] the -[3661.82 --> 3662.00] two -[3662.00 --> 3662.22] hour -[3662.22 --> 3662.44] mark -[3662.44 --> 3662.76] today -[3662.76 --> 3663.86] no -[3663.86 --> 3664.30] complaining -[3664.30 --> 3666.88] in -[3666.88 --> 3667.10] fact -[3667.10 --> 3667.54] Reverend -[3667.54 --> 3668.10] Moses -[3668.10 --> 3668.82] said -[3668.82 --> 3669.08] that -[3669.08 --> 3669.26] the -[3669.26 --> 3669.92] CRC -[3669.92 --> 3670.22] in -[3670.22 --> 3670.64] Sierra -[3670.64 --> 3671.10] Leone -[3671.10 --> 3671.40] is -[3671.40 --> 3671.60] the -[3671.60 --> 3672.06] fastest -[3672.06 --> 3672.52] growing -[3672.52 --> 3672.90] church -[3672.90 --> 3673.06] in -[3673.06 --> 3673.20] that -[3673.20 --> 3673.56] country -[3673.56 --> 3675.80] God -[3675.80 --> 3675.98] is -[3675.98 --> 3676.24] doing -[3676.24 --> 3676.72] something -[3676.72 --> 3677.12] there -[3677.12 --> 3678.52] and -[3678.52 --> 3678.68] so -[3678.68 --> 3678.86] we -[3678.86 --> 3679.10] see -[3679.10 --> 3679.52] faith -[3679.52 --> 3679.88] being -[3679.88 --> 3680.30] grown -[3680.30 --> 3680.52] and -[3680.52 --> 3680.84] people -[3680.84 --> 3681.16] loving -[3681.16 --> 3681.38] each -[3681.38 --> 3681.58] other -[3681.58 --> 3681.86] more -[3681.86 --> 3682.04] and -[3682.04 --> 3682.34] more -[3682.34 --> 3684.34] and -[3684.34 --> 3684.52] here -[3684.52 --> 3684.82] too -[3684.82 --> 3686.50] every -[3686.50 --> 3687.02] week -[3687.02 --> 3687.50] every -[3687.50 --> 3687.84] week -[3687.84 --> 3688.02] I -[3688.02 --> 3688.32] talk -[3688.32 --> 3688.48] to -[3688.48 --> 3688.76] people -[3688.76 --> 3689.04] in -[3689.04 --> 3689.26] this -[3689.26 --> 3689.56] church -[3689.56 --> 3689.70] and -[3689.70 --> 3689.86] it's -[3689.86 --> 3690.04] the -[3690.04 --> 3690.44] same -[3690.44 --> 3691.32] story -[3691.32 --> 3692.36] God -[3692.36 --> 3692.52] is -[3692.52 --> 3692.84] doing -[3692.84 --> 3693.30] something -[3693.30 --> 3694.06] here -[3694.06 --> 3694.44] people -[3694.44 --> 3694.68] are -[3694.68 --> 3695.30] experiencing -[3695.30 --> 3695.54] what -[3695.54 --> 3695.66] it -[3695.66 --> 3695.96] means -[3695.96 --> 3696.30] to be -[3696.30 --> 3696.46] a -[3696.46 --> 3696.94] lavishly -[3696.94 --> 3697.26] loved -[3697.26 --> 3697.86] child -[3697.86 --> 3698.16] of the -[3698.16 --> 3698.48] father -[3698.48 --> 3699.52] right -[3699.52 --> 3699.62] I -[3699.62 --> 3699.78] hear -[3699.78 --> 3700.24] stories -[3700.24 --> 3700.46] from -[3700.46 --> 3700.74] people -[3700.74 --> 3700.96] who -[3700.96 --> 3701.12] are -[3701.12 --> 3701.34] in -[3701.34 --> 3701.94] a -[3701.94 --> 3702.28] self -[3702.28 --> 3702.90] described -[3702.90 --> 3703.46] learning -[3703.46 --> 3704.02] period -[3704.02 --> 3704.46] of their -[3704.46 --> 3704.74] life -[3704.74 --> 3704.88] and -[3704.88 --> 3704.98] they're -[3704.98 --> 3705.14] just -[3705.14 --> 3705.42] taking -[3705.42 --> 3705.74] all -[3705.74 --> 3705.90] the -[3705.90 --> 3706.38] opportunities -[3706.38 --> 3706.76] that -[3706.76 --> 3706.92] they -[3706.92 --> 3707.22] have -[3707.22 --> 3707.60] to -[3707.60 --> 3707.92] grow -[3707.92 --> 3708.16] in -[3708.16 --> 3708.30] their -[3708.30 --> 3708.62] faith -[3708.62 --> 3708.80] and -[3708.80 --> 3708.90] in -[3708.90 --> 3709.02] their -[3709.02 --> 3709.28] life -[3709.28 --> 3709.44] with -[3709.44 --> 3709.82] Christ -[3709.82 --> 3710.86] right -[3710.86 --> 3711.06] from -[3711.06 --> 3711.38] people -[3711.38 --> 3711.56] who -[3711.56 --> 3711.74] in -[3711.74 --> 3711.86] the -[3711.86 --> 3712.10] last -[3712.10 --> 3712.44] six -[3712.44 --> 3712.70] months -[3712.70 --> 3712.90] have -[3712.90 --> 3713.58] seen -[3713.58 --> 3713.80] their -[3713.80 --> 3714.08] life -[3714.08 --> 3714.68] completely -[3714.68 --> 3715.46] transformed -[3715.46 --> 3715.92] their -[3715.92 --> 3716.50] desires -[3716.50 --> 3717.24] changed -[3717.24 --> 3717.62] for the -[3717.62 --> 3717.86] heart -[3717.86 --> 3718.00] of -[3718.00 --> 3718.44] Christ -[3718.44 --> 3720.00] people -[3720.00 --> 3720.20] who -[3720.20 --> 3720.36] have -[3720.36 --> 3720.72] seen -[3720.72 --> 3721.10] God -[3721.10 --> 3721.34] work -[3721.34 --> 3722.00] miracles -[3722.00 --> 3722.58] in -[3722.58 --> 3722.76] their -[3722.76 --> 3723.14] lives -[3723.14 --> 3726.32] I've -[3726.32 --> 3726.60] seen -[3726.60 --> 3726.96] you -[3726.96 --> 3727.96] love -[3727.96 --> 3728.38] people -[3728.38 --> 3728.68] through -[3728.68 --> 3729.30] hardships -[3729.30 --> 3730.68] and -[3730.68 --> 3731.04] grief -[3731.04 --> 3733.08] I've -[3733.08 --> 3733.24] seen -[3733.24 --> 3733.46] you -[3733.46 --> 3733.68] love -[3733.68 --> 3733.90] each -[3733.90 --> 3734.20] other -[3734.20 --> 3734.46] in -[3734.46 --> 3734.60] the -[3734.60 --> 3734.86] midst -[3734.86 --> 3735.12] of -[3735.12 --> 3735.58] deep -[3735.58 --> 3736.52] sadness -[3736.52 --> 3737.58] and -[3737.58 --> 3738.04] sorrow -[3738.04 --> 3739.98] I've -[3739.98 --> 3740.22] seen -[3740.22 --> 3740.54] you -[3740.54 --> 3740.88] love -[3740.88 --> 3741.10] each -[3741.10 --> 3741.32] other -[3741.32 --> 3741.52] by -[3741.52 --> 3741.82] making -[3741.82 --> 3742.32] bags -[3742.32 --> 3742.58] of -[3742.58 --> 3742.96] freezer -[3742.96 --> 3743.56] sandwiches -[3743.56 --> 3743.96] for -[3743.96 --> 3744.32] school -[3744.32 --> 3744.92] lunches -[3744.92 --> 3745.36] and -[3745.36 --> 3745.88] meals -[3745.88 --> 3746.26] upon -[3746.26 --> 3746.74] meals -[3746.74 --> 3747.02] upon -[3747.02 --> 3747.58] meals -[3747.58 --> 3748.94] upon -[3748.94 --> 3749.40] meals -[3749.40 --> 3749.60] and -[3749.60 --> 3749.88] upon -[3749.88 --> 3750.36] meals -[3750.36 --> 3751.80] I've -[3751.80 --> 3751.96] seen -[3751.96 --> 3752.14] you -[3752.14 --> 3752.60] pray -[3752.60 --> 3753.34] and -[3753.34 --> 3753.78] pray -[3753.78 --> 3754.32] for -[3754.32 --> 3754.74] people -[3754.74 --> 3758.18] I've -[3758.18 --> 3758.32] seen -[3758.32 --> 3758.46] you -[3758.46 --> 3758.66] give -[3758.66 --> 3759.00] rides -[3759.00 --> 3759.18] to -[3759.18 --> 3759.32] the -[3759.32 --> 3759.60] dentist -[3759.60 --> 3760.92] and -[3760.92 --> 3761.06] to -[3761.06 --> 3761.18] the -[3761.18 --> 3761.56] doctor -[3761.56 --> 3763.04] I -[3763.04 --> 3763.18] have -[3763.18 --> 3763.50] sat -[3763.50 --> 3763.72] with -[3763.72 --> 3763.92] you -[3763.92 --> 3764.16] in -[3764.16 --> 3764.32] your -[3764.32 --> 3764.84] tears -[3764.84 --> 3765.44] and -[3765.44 --> 3765.60] your -[3765.60 --> 3766.38] frustrations -[3766.38 --> 3768.34] and -[3768.34 --> 3768.44] I -[3768.44 --> 3768.62] have -[3768.62 --> 3768.98] prayed -[3768.98 --> 3769.48] for -[3769.48 --> 3769.82] every -[3769.82 --> 3770.00] one -[3770.00 --> 3770.18] of -[3770.18 --> 3770.42] you -[3770.42 --> 3770.92] by -[3770.92 --> 3771.38] name -[3771.38 --> 3772.04] or -[3772.04 --> 3772.20] by -[3772.20 --> 3772.68] face -[3772.68 --> 3773.26] or -[3773.26 --> 3773.42] by -[3773.42 --> 3773.58] the -[3773.58 --> 3773.78] rough -[3773.78 --> 3774.10] place -[3774.10 --> 3774.26] where -[3774.26 --> 3774.42] you -[3774.42 --> 3774.70] sit -[3774.70 --> 3775.04] on -[3775.04 --> 3775.38] Sunday -[3775.38 --> 3777.98] your -[3777.98 --> 3778.66] story -[3778.66 --> 3779.26] is -[3779.26 --> 3780.22] here -[3780.22 --> 3780.54] it's -[3780.54 --> 3780.74] in -[3780.74 --> 3781.02] this -[3781.02 --> 3781.44] mix -[3781.44 --> 3781.64] and -[3781.64 --> 3782.10] God -[3782.10 --> 3782.34] is -[3782.34 --> 3783.02] doing -[3783.02 --> 3783.56] something -[3783.56 --> 3784.18] here -[3784.18 --> 3784.38] and -[3784.38 --> 3784.68] so -[3784.68 --> 3784.94] we -[3784.94 --> 3785.24] see -[3785.24 --> 3785.70] faith -[3785.70 --> 3786.46] grown -[3786.46 --> 3786.76] and -[3786.76 --> 3787.14] people -[3787.14 --> 3787.56] loving -[3787.56 --> 3787.84] each -[3787.84 --> 3788.06] other -[3788.06 --> 3788.52] more -[3788.52 --> 3789.18] and -[3789.18 --> 3789.98] more -[3789.98 --> 3790.82] and -[3790.82 --> 3791.10] like -[3791.10 --> 3791.64] Paul -[3791.64 --> 3792.34] I -[3792.34 --> 3792.92] boast -[3792.92 --> 3793.54] about -[3793.54 --> 3793.98] your -[3793.98 --> 3794.70] perseverance -[3794.70 --> 3795.38] and -[3795.38 --> 3795.80] faith -[3795.80 --> 3796.98] we -[3796.98 --> 3797.20] are -[3797.20 --> 3797.40] a -[3797.40 --> 3797.68] church -[3797.68 --> 3798.22] grounded -[3798.22 --> 3798.48] in -[3798.48 --> 3798.84] faith -[3798.84 --> 3799.10] and -[3799.10 --> 3799.32] we -[3799.32 --> 3799.58] are -[3799.58 --> 3800.20] faithful -[3800.20 --> 3800.98] in -[3800.98 --> 3801.30] our -[3801.30 --> 3801.66] work -[3801.66 --> 3802.08] together -[3802.08 --> 3802.80] striving -[3802.80 --> 3803.16] to -[3803.16 --> 3803.60] be -[3803.60 --> 3804.20] ever -[3804.20 --> 3804.70] more -[3804.70 --> 3805.52] faithful -[3805.52 --> 3806.14] God -[3806.14 --> 3806.34] is -[3806.34 --> 3806.70] doing -[3806.70 --> 3807.12] something -[3807.12 --> 3807.48] here -[3807.48 --> 3807.86] and -[3807.86 --> 3808.34] because -[3808.34 --> 3808.66] he -[3808.66 --> 3809.18] is -[3809.18 --> 3809.54] we -[3809.54 --> 3810.06] don't -[3810.06 --> 3810.58] stop -[3810.58 --> 3812.58] as -[3812.58 --> 3812.94] Jesus -[3812.94 --> 3813.30] said -[3813.30 --> 3813.54] whoever -[3813.54 --> 3813.84] can -[3813.84 --> 3813.98] be -[3813.98 --> 3814.36] trusted -[3814.36 --> 3814.64] with -[3814.64 --> 3814.84] a -[3814.84 --> 3815.12] little -[3815.12 --> 3815.66] can -[3815.66 --> 3816.02] also -[3816.02 --> 3816.26] be -[3816.26 --> 3816.58] trusted -[3816.58 --> 3816.84] with -[3816.84 --> 3817.20] much -[3817.20 --> 3818.84] and -[3818.84 --> 3819.00] what -[3819.00 --> 3819.28] God -[3819.28 --> 3819.48] has -[3819.48 --> 3819.76] done -[3819.76 --> 3820.56] so far -[3820.56 --> 3820.88] is -[3820.88 --> 3821.16] just -[3821.16 --> 3821.34] the -[3821.34 --> 3821.70] beginning -[3821.70 --> 3822.16] of what -[3822.16 --> 3822.30] he -[3822.30 --> 3822.50] is -[3822.50 --> 3822.94] preparing -[3822.94 --> 3823.18] to -[3823.18 --> 3823.40] do -[3823.40 --> 3823.58] and -[3823.58 --> 3823.88] so -[3823.88 --> 3824.40] like -[3824.40 --> 3824.78] Paul -[3824.78 --> 3824.98] who -[3824.98 --> 3825.24] writes -[3825.24 --> 3825.42] in -[3825.42 --> 3825.96] Philippians -[3825.96 --> 3826.70] forgetting -[3826.70 --> 3827.06] what -[3827.06 --> 3827.22] is -[3827.22 --> 3827.68] behind -[3827.68 --> 3828.00] and -[3828.00 --> 3828.58] straining -[3828.58 --> 3828.94] toward -[3828.94 --> 3829.24] what -[3829.24 --> 3829.38] is -[3829.38 --> 3829.72] ahead -[3829.72 --> 3830.00] we -[3830.00 --> 3830.42] press -[3830.42 --> 3830.90] on -[3830.90 --> 3831.24] toward -[3831.24 --> 3831.52] the -[3831.52 --> 3831.80] goal -[3831.80 --> 3833.12] we -[3833.12 --> 3833.32] don't -[3833.32 --> 3833.60] rest -[3833.60 --> 3833.76] on -[3833.76 --> 3833.88] the -[3833.88 --> 3834.30] past -[3834.30 --> 3835.94] we -[3835.94 --> 3836.18] step -[3836.18 --> 3836.62] forward -[3836.62 --> 3837.06] into -[3837.06 --> 3837.26] the -[3837.26 --> 3837.60] future -[3837.60 --> 3837.80] that -[3837.80 --> 3837.98] God -[3837.98 --> 3838.14] is -[3838.14 --> 3838.52] preparing -[3838.52 --> 3841.06] gratitude -[3841.06 --> 3841.86] looks -[3841.86 --> 3842.56] back -[3842.56 --> 3843.06] yes -[3843.06 --> 3843.38] and -[3843.38 --> 3843.78] amen -[3843.78 --> 3844.42] but -[3844.42 --> 3844.96] faith -[3844.96 --> 3845.72] always -[3845.72 --> 3846.18] steps -[3846.18 --> 3847.16] forward -[3847.16 --> 3848.88] faith -[3848.88 --> 3849.34] steps -[3849.34 --> 3849.80] forward -[3849.80 --> 3850.18] on -[3850.18 --> 3850.36] the -[3850.36 --> 3850.94] foundation -[3850.94 --> 3851.80] of -[3851.80 --> 3852.30] gratitude -[3852.30 --> 3854.30] God -[3854.30 --> 3854.48] is -[3854.48 --> 3854.88] calling -[3854.88 --> 3855.32] us -[3855.32 --> 3855.60] to -[3855.60 --> 3856.40] press -[3856.40 --> 3857.32] on -[3857.32 --> 3857.82] into -[3857.82 --> 3858.26] what -[3858.26 --> 3858.52] he -[3858.52 --> 3858.90] has -[3858.90 --> 3859.64] next -[3859.64 --> 3860.46] and -[3860.46 --> 3860.58] there -[3860.58 --> 3860.70] will -[3860.70 --> 3860.84] be -[3860.84 --> 3861.22] trials -[3861.22 --> 3861.44] there -[3861.44 --> 3861.62] will -[3861.62 --> 3861.94] be -[3861.94 --> 3862.82] persecutions -[3862.82 --> 3863.02] there -[3863.02 --> 3863.20] will -[3863.20 --> 3863.36] be -[3863.36 --> 3863.84] hardships -[3863.84 --> 3864.52] there -[3864.52 --> 3864.88] may -[3864.88 --> 3865.32] even -[3865.32 --> 3865.56] be -[3865.56 --> 3865.98] things -[3865.98 --> 3866.28] that -[3866.28 --> 3866.80] apart -[3866.80 --> 3867.30] from -[3867.30 --> 3867.52] the -[3867.52 --> 3867.90] clear -[3867.90 --> 3868.56] provision -[3868.56 --> 3868.84] of -[3868.84 --> 3869.12] God -[3869.12 --> 3869.36] are -[3869.36 --> 3870.06] impossible -[3870.06 --> 3870.78] for -[3870.78 --> 3871.06] us -[3871.06 --> 3871.24] to -[3871.24 --> 3871.54] do -[3871.54 --> 3874.22] but -[3874.22 --> 3874.40] our -[3874.40 --> 3874.72] God -[3874.72 --> 3876.02] is -[3876.02 --> 3876.14] the -[3876.14 --> 3876.30] God -[3876.30 --> 3876.40] of -[3876.40 --> 3876.50] the -[3876.50 --> 3877.06] impossible -[3877.06 --> 3878.94] Jesus -[3878.94 --> 3879.36] himself -[3879.36 --> 3879.58] says -[3879.58 --> 3879.74] with -[3879.74 --> 3880.06] man -[3880.06 --> 3880.24] this -[3880.24 --> 3880.36] is -[3880.36 --> 3880.84] impossible -[3880.84 --> 3881.32] with -[3881.32 --> 3881.78] God -[3881.78 --> 3882.44] nothing -[3882.44 --> 3883.12] is -[3883.12 --> 3884.14] impossible -[3884.14 --> 3888.14] there's -[3888.14 --> 3888.64] a story -[3888.64 --> 3890.44] a story -[3890.44 --> 3890.72] from -[3890.72 --> 3891.92] church -[3891.92 --> 3892.34] history -[3892.34 --> 3892.56] from -[3892.56 --> 3892.76] the -[3892.76 --> 3893.08] second -[3893.08 --> 3894.42] century -[3894.42 --> 3895.30] AD -[3895.30 --> 3896.36] about -[3896.36 --> 3896.70] a man -[3896.70 --> 3896.94] named -[3896.94 --> 3897.88] Polycarp -[3897.88 --> 3899.26] Polycarp -[3899.26 --> 3900.20] was the -[3900.20 --> 3900.58] bishop -[3900.58 --> 3900.84] of -[3900.84 --> 3901.32] Smyrna -[3901.32 --> 3901.82] he became -[3901.82 --> 3902.18] a leader -[3902.18 --> 3902.54] in the -[3902.54 --> 3902.80] church -[3902.80 --> 3903.20] he is -[3903.20 --> 3903.40] a -[3903.40 --> 3904.00] disciple -[3904.00 --> 3904.60] of -[3904.60 --> 3904.78] the -[3904.78 --> 3905.20] apostle -[3905.20 --> 3905.78] John -[3905.78 --> 3907.70] he -[3907.70 --> 3908.26] faced -[3908.26 --> 3909.22] martyrdom -[3909.22 --> 3909.74] execution -[3909.74 --> 3910.78] for his -[3910.78 --> 3911.12] faith -[3911.12 --> 3911.90] at age -[3911.90 --> 3912.68] 86 -[3912.68 --> 3914.50] at age -[3914.50 --> 3915.38] 86 -[3915.38 --> 3916.14] Roman -[3916.14 --> 3916.72] officials -[3916.72 --> 3917.60] collected -[3917.60 --> 3917.94] him -[3917.94 --> 3918.34] gathered -[3918.34 --> 3918.60] him -[3918.60 --> 3918.82] up -[3918.82 --> 3919.46] brought -[3919.46 --> 3919.80] him -[3919.80 --> 3920.22] to -[3920.22 --> 3920.40] the -[3920.40 --> 3920.66] court -[3920.66 --> 3920.88] and -[3920.88 --> 3921.42] demanded -[3921.42 --> 3921.94] that he -[3921.94 --> 3922.44] curse -[3922.44 --> 3923.04] Christ -[3923.04 --> 3923.38] and -[3923.38 --> 3923.88] swear -[3923.88 --> 3924.50] allegiance -[3924.50 --> 3924.90] to -[3924.90 --> 3925.36] Caesar -[3925.36 --> 3925.98] and -[3925.98 --> 3926.90] Polycarp -[3926.90 --> 3927.70] calmly -[3927.70 --> 3928.32] replied -[3928.32 --> 3929.40] as the -[3929.40 --> 3929.78] story -[3929.78 --> 3930.48] goes -[3930.48 --> 3931.22] 86 -[3931.22 --> 3932.54] years -[3932.54 --> 3932.82] have -[3932.82 --> 3933.00] I -[3933.00 --> 3933.42] served -[3933.42 --> 3933.68] him -[3933.68 --> 3934.48] and -[3934.48 --> 3934.68] he -[3934.68 --> 3934.94] has -[3934.94 --> 3935.18] done -[3935.18 --> 3935.34] me -[3935.34 --> 3935.56] no -[3935.56 --> 3935.90] wrong -[3935.90 --> 3937.72] how -[3937.72 --> 3938.14] then -[3938.14 --> 3938.40] can -[3938.40 --> 3938.58] I -[3938.58 --> 3939.32] blaspheme -[3939.32 --> 3939.60] my -[3939.60 --> 3940.04] king -[3940.04 --> 3940.58] and -[3940.58 --> 3941.02] savior -[3941.02 --> 3942.58] and -[3942.58 --> 3942.72] they -[3942.72 --> 3943.00] sentenced -[3943.00 --> 3943.78] him -[3943.78 --> 3944.04] to be -[3944.04 --> 3944.20] burned -[3944.20 --> 3944.56] alive -[3944.56 --> 3945.98] and -[3945.98 --> 3946.20] again -[3946.20 --> 3947.38] when -[3947.38 --> 3947.52] they -[3947.52 --> 3947.84] tried -[3947.84 --> 3948.02] to -[3948.02 --> 3948.22] burn -[3948.22 --> 3948.46] him -[3948.46 --> 3949.36] witnesses -[3949.36 --> 3949.82] standing -[3949.82 --> 3950.20] around -[3950.20 --> 3950.72] record -[3950.72 --> 3951.48] that -[3951.48 --> 3951.66] the -[3951.66 --> 3952.16] flames -[3952.16 --> 3952.68] formed -[3952.68 --> 3952.90] an -[3952.90 --> 3953.26] arch -[3953.26 --> 3953.58] over -[3953.58 --> 3953.92] top -[3953.92 --> 3954.06] of -[3954.06 --> 3954.20] his -[3954.20 --> 3954.52] body -[3954.52 --> 3954.68] and -[3954.68 --> 3954.86] didn't -[3954.86 --> 3955.12] touch -[3955.12 --> 3955.32] him -[3955.32 --> 3956.18] didn't -[3956.18 --> 3956.56] consume -[3956.56 --> 3956.90] him -[3956.90 --> 3958.62] eventually -[3958.62 --> 3959.44] a -[3959.44 --> 3959.76] soldier -[3959.76 --> 3960.40] had to -[3960.40 --> 3961.28] be pushed -[3961.28 --> 3961.72] through -[3961.72 --> 3962.00] the -[3962.00 --> 3962.26] arch -[3962.26 --> 3962.48] of -[3962.48 --> 3962.78] fire -[3962.78 --> 3963.02] and -[3963.02 --> 3963.36] stab -[3963.36 --> 3963.62] him -[3963.62 --> 3965.78] his -[3965.78 --> 3966.30] courage -[3966.30 --> 3966.54] and -[3966.54 --> 3966.86] God's -[3966.86 --> 3967.22] sustaining -[3967.22 --> 3967.76] power -[3967.76 --> 3968.42] became -[3968.42 --> 3968.98] for the -[3968.98 --> 3969.24] early -[3969.24 --> 3969.64] church -[3969.64 --> 3969.84] a -[3969.84 --> 3970.52] powerful -[3970.52 --> 3971.12] testimony -[3971.12 --> 3971.76] that -[3971.76 --> 3972.46] emboldened -[3972.46 --> 3972.70] the -[3972.70 --> 3973.00] faith -[3973.00 --> 3973.20] of -[3973.20 --> 3973.60] Christians -[3973.60 --> 3974.34] across -[3974.34 --> 3974.56] the -[3974.56 --> 3974.98] empire -[3974.98 --> 3976.72] faith -[3976.72 --> 3977.24] presses -[3977.24 --> 3977.74] on -[3977.74 --> 3978.52] despite -[3978.52 --> 3979.68] persecution -[3979.68 --> 3981.30] showing -[3981.30 --> 3981.82] God's -[3981.82 --> 3982.26] power -[3982.26 --> 3982.52] and -[3982.52 --> 3982.92] provision -[3982.92 --> 3983.60] even -[3983.60 --> 3984.02] in -[3984.02 --> 3984.82] impossible -[3984.82 --> 3985.66] circumstances -[3985.66 --> 3986.96] and -[3986.96 --> 3987.18] this -[3987.18 --> 3987.54] story -[3987.54 --> 3987.74] from -[3987.74 --> 3987.86] the -[3987.86 --> 3988.08] early -[3988.08 --> 3988.58] church -[3988.58 --> 3989.80] is -[3989.80 --> 3990.08] not -[3990.08 --> 3990.52] just -[3990.52 --> 3990.78] a -[3990.78 --> 3991.26] story -[3991.26 --> 3992.32] 1800 -[3992.32 --> 3992.92] years -[3992.92 --> 3993.28] old -[3993.28 --> 3994.36] this -[3994.36 --> 3994.52] is -[3994.52 --> 3994.74] the -[3994.74 --> 3995.20] legacy -[3995.20 --> 3995.76] of -[3995.76 --> 3995.96] our -[3995.96 --> 3996.38] faith -[3996.38 --> 3997.58] their -[3997.58 --> 3998.26] perseverance -[3998.26 --> 3998.96] fuels -[3998.96 --> 3999.42] ours -[3999.42 --> 4000.44] this -[4000.44 --> 4000.58] is -[4000.58 --> 4000.76] the -[4000.76 --> 4001.16] line -[4001.16 --> 4001.34] of -[4001.34 --> 4001.50] the -[4001.50 --> 4001.88] lineage -[4001.88 --> 4002.16] of -[4002.16 --> 4002.42] faith -[4002.42 --> 4002.64] that -[4002.64 --> 4003.00] runs -[4003.00 --> 4003.48] straight -[4003.48 --> 4003.74] from -[4003.74 --> 4003.92] the -[4003.92 --> 4004.08] New -[4004.08 --> 4004.50] Testament -[4004.50 --> 4004.88] era -[4004.88 --> 4005.42] right -[4005.42 --> 4005.66] to -[4005.66 --> 4005.86] our -[4005.86 --> 4006.12] own -[4006.12 --> 4007.86] and -[4007.86 --> 4008.52] polycarp's -[4008.52 --> 4008.82] story -[4008.82 --> 4009.38] reminds -[4009.38 --> 4009.82] us -[4009.82 --> 4010.60] Paul's -[4010.60 --> 4010.94] story -[4010.94 --> 4011.52] reminds -[4011.52 --> 4011.80] us -[4011.80 --> 4011.98] the -[4011.98 --> 4012.30] church -[4012.30 --> 4012.56] in -[4012.56 --> 4013.28] Thessalonica -[4013.28 --> 4013.92] reminds -[4013.92 --> 4014.22] us -[4014.22 --> 4014.64] that -[4014.64 --> 4015.06] when -[4015.06 --> 4015.54] faith -[4015.54 --> 4016.04] steps -[4016.04 --> 4016.56] forward -[4016.56 --> 4017.02] into -[4017.02 --> 4017.30] what -[4017.30 --> 4017.80] seems -[4017.80 --> 4018.54] impossible -[4018.54 --> 4019.36] God's -[4019.36 --> 4020.00] strength -[4020.00 --> 4020.86] always -[4020.86 --> 4021.26] holds -[4021.26 --> 4021.46] us -[4021.46 --> 4021.90] fast -[4021.90 --> 4023.38] even -[4023.38 --> 4023.80] through -[4023.80 --> 4024.20] death -[4024.20 --> 4027.28] and -[4027.28 --> 4027.42] if -[4027.42 --> 4027.70] God -[4027.70 --> 4028.26] sustains -[4028.26 --> 4028.52] us -[4028.52 --> 4028.78] through -[4028.78 --> 4029.24] death -[4029.24 --> 4030.90] surely -[4030.90 --> 4031.28] he -[4031.28 --> 4031.68] can -[4031.68 --> 4031.94] and -[4031.94 --> 4032.38] will -[4032.38 --> 4033.26] sustain -[4033.26 --> 4033.58] his -[4033.58 --> 4034.04] church -[4034.04 --> 4034.64] through -[4034.64 --> 4035.26] political -[4035.26 --> 4036.14] disappointments -[4036.14 --> 4037.80] through -[4037.80 --> 4037.98] the -[4037.98 --> 4038.26] rumors -[4038.26 --> 4038.52] of -[4038.52 --> 4038.88] war -[4038.88 --> 4039.10] and -[4039.10 --> 4039.54] actual -[4039.54 --> 4040.16] wars -[4040.16 --> 4040.64] or -[4040.64 --> 4040.80] the -[4040.80 --> 4041.06] rumors -[4041.06 --> 4041.26] of -[4041.26 --> 4041.64] tariff -[4041.64 --> 4042.08] wars -[4042.08 --> 4043.70] surely -[4043.70 --> 4043.96] if -[4043.96 --> 4044.18] God -[4044.18 --> 4044.66] sustains -[4044.66 --> 4044.86] us -[4044.86 --> 4045.06] through -[4045.06 --> 4045.64] death -[4045.64 --> 4046.14] he -[4046.14 --> 4046.34] can -[4046.34 --> 4046.78] sustain -[4046.78 --> 4047.10] us -[4047.10 --> 4047.34] through -[4047.34 --> 4048.06] recommendations -[4048.06 --> 4049.12] 429 -[4049.12 --> 4049.94] and 430 -[4049.94 --> 4052.10] God -[4052.10 --> 4052.68] will not -[4052.68 --> 4053.04] fail -[4053.04 --> 4054.02] he -[4054.02 --> 4054.46] cannot -[4054.46 --> 4056.02] and -[4056.02 --> 4056.42] so -[4056.42 --> 4058.02] his -[4058.02 --> 4058.60] church -[4058.60 --> 4059.90] will -[4059.90 --> 4060.34] endure -[4060.34 --> 4061.46] and -[4061.46 --> 4061.78] you -[4061.78 --> 4062.26] can -[4062.26 --> 4063.34] persevere -[4063.34 --> 4064.10] precisely -[4064.10 --> 4064.78] because -[4064.78 --> 4065.32] you -[4065.32 --> 4065.64] are -[4065.64 --> 4066.04] being -[4066.04 --> 4066.56] preserved -[4066.56 --> 4067.84] and -[4067.84 --> 4068.14] just -[4068.14 --> 4068.40] like -[4068.40 --> 4069.04] polycarp -[4069.04 --> 4069.28] just -[4069.28 --> 4069.52] like -[4069.52 --> 4069.78] Paul -[4069.78 --> 4070.16] before -[4070.16 --> 4070.36] him -[4070.36 --> 4070.66] just -[4070.66 --> 4070.92] like -[4070.92 --> 4071.08] the -[4071.08 --> 4071.72] Thessalonians -[4071.72 --> 4072.00] we -[4072.00 --> 4072.40] today -[4072.40 --> 4072.64] are -[4072.64 --> 4073.04] called -[4073.04 --> 4073.52] to -[4073.52 --> 4073.84] press -[4073.84 --> 4074.10] on -[4074.10 --> 4074.54] trusting -[4074.54 --> 4074.80] that -[4074.80 --> 4075.14] even -[4075.14 --> 4075.52] in -[4075.52 --> 4076.20] trials -[4076.20 --> 4076.64] God -[4076.64 --> 4077.04] is -[4077.04 --> 4077.62] at -[4077.62 --> 4078.42] work -[4078.42 --> 4079.26] that's -[4079.26 --> 4079.76] exactly -[4079.76 --> 4080.38] what -[4080.38 --> 4080.58] Paul -[4080.58 --> 4080.88] says -[4080.88 --> 4081.32] next -[4081.32 --> 4083.06] all -[4083.06 --> 4083.40] this -[4083.40 --> 4083.62] is -[4083.62 --> 4084.10] evidence -[4084.10 --> 4084.36] that -[4084.36 --> 4084.84] God's -[4084.84 --> 4085.22] judgment -[4085.22 --> 4085.52] is -[4085.52 --> 4085.92] right -[4085.92 --> 4086.40] and -[4086.40 --> 4086.62] as -[4086.62 --> 4086.74] a -[4086.74 --> 4087.14] result -[4087.14 --> 4087.52] you -[4087.52 --> 4087.76] will -[4087.76 --> 4087.90] be -[4087.90 --> 4088.24] counted -[4088.24 --> 4088.82] worthy -[4088.82 --> 4089.16] of -[4089.16 --> 4089.34] the -[4089.34 --> 4089.64] kingdom -[4089.64 --> 4089.88] of -[4089.88 --> 4090.20] God -[4090.20 --> 4090.80] for -[4090.80 --> 4091.12] which -[4091.12 --> 4091.44] you -[4091.44 --> 4092.02] are -[4092.02 --> 4092.82] suffering -[4092.82 --> 4094.34] your -[4094.34 --> 4095.02] perseverance -[4095.02 --> 4095.36] and -[4095.36 --> 4095.72] faith -[4095.72 --> 4096.26] your -[4096.26 --> 4097.30] endurance -[4097.30 --> 4097.52] and -[4097.52 --> 4097.90] trials -[4097.90 --> 4098.12] your -[4098.12 --> 4098.56] love -[4098.56 --> 4098.72] and -[4098.72 --> 4099.10] hardship -[4099.10 --> 4099.36] your -[4099.36 --> 4100.32] faithfulness -[4100.32 --> 4100.50] in -[4100.50 --> 4100.64] the -[4100.64 --> 4100.96] small -[4100.96 --> 4101.34] things -[4101.34 --> 4101.74] is -[4101.74 --> 4102.02] not -[4102.02 --> 4102.48] meaningless -[4102.48 --> 4103.66] it -[4103.66 --> 4103.80] is -[4103.80 --> 4104.40] evidence -[4104.40 --> 4104.66] that -[4104.66 --> 4105.02] God -[4105.02 --> 4105.30] is -[4105.30 --> 4105.48] at -[4105.48 --> 4105.82] work -[4105.82 --> 4106.40] among -[4106.40 --> 4106.68] you -[4106.68 --> 4107.46] it -[4107.46 --> 4107.62] is -[4107.62 --> 4108.08] proof -[4108.08 --> 4108.34] that -[4108.34 --> 4108.78] he -[4108.78 --> 4109.02] is -[4109.02 --> 4109.46] shaping -[4109.46 --> 4109.82] you -[4109.82 --> 4110.02] and -[4110.02 --> 4110.58] preparing -[4110.58 --> 4110.98] you -[4110.98 --> 4111.36] for -[4111.36 --> 4111.78] his -[4111.78 --> 4112.58] kingdom -[4112.58 --> 4112.90] and -[4112.90 --> 4113.30] so -[4113.30 --> 4113.88] brothers -[4113.88 --> 4114.16] and -[4114.16 --> 4114.56] sisters -[4114.56 --> 4114.92] do -[4114.92 --> 4115.26] not -[4115.26 --> 4115.66] lose -[4115.66 --> 4116.16] heart -[4116.16 --> 4117.64] God -[4117.64 --> 4118.32] sees -[4118.32 --> 4118.96] you -[4118.96 --> 4119.50] God -[4119.50 --> 4120.12] knows -[4120.12 --> 4120.70] you -[4120.70 --> 4120.98] and -[4120.98 --> 4121.26] God -[4121.26 --> 4121.50] is -[4121.50 --> 4121.88] working -[4121.88 --> 4122.34] in -[4122.34 --> 4122.56] you -[4122.56 --> 4122.84] and -[4122.84 --> 4123.58] with -[4123.58 --> 4123.78] you -[4123.78 --> 4123.98] the -[4123.98 --> 4124.50] trials -[4124.50 --> 4124.78] you -[4124.78 --> 4125.26] face -[4125.26 --> 4125.76] are -[4125.76 --> 4126.02] not -[4126.02 --> 4126.50] random -[4126.50 --> 4127.06] they -[4127.06 --> 4127.28] are -[4127.28 --> 4127.90] refining -[4127.90 --> 4129.66] the -[4129.66 --> 4130.06] faith -[4130.06 --> 4130.30] you -[4130.30 --> 4130.58] live -[4130.58 --> 4130.82] out -[4130.82 --> 4131.06] is -[4131.06 --> 4131.28] not -[4131.28 --> 4131.80] wasted -[4131.80 --> 4132.42] it -[4132.42 --> 4132.58] is -[4132.58 --> 4133.16] noticed -[4133.16 --> 4133.50] by -[4133.50 --> 4133.88] heaven -[4133.88 --> 4135.62] and -[4135.62 --> 4135.76] the -[4135.76 --> 4136.14] love -[4136.14 --> 4136.32] that -[4136.32 --> 4136.50] you -[4136.50 --> 4137.02] show -[4137.02 --> 4137.82] is -[4137.82 --> 4138.28] not -[4138.28 --> 4139.04] forgotten -[4139.04 --> 4140.36] it -[4140.36 --> 4141.02] reflects -[4141.02 --> 4141.48] our -[4141.48 --> 4142.28] father's -[4142.28 --> 4143.10] heart -[4143.10 --> 4144.74] a -[4144.74 --> 4145.02] church -[4145.02 --> 4145.42] grounded -[4145.42 --> 4145.64] in -[4145.64 --> 4146.06] faith -[4146.06 --> 4147.34] will -[4147.34 --> 4147.62] be -[4147.62 --> 4148.04] fruitful -[4148.04 --> 4149.28] in -[4149.28 --> 4149.46] its -[4149.46 --> 4149.88] work -[4149.88 --> 4151.00] amen -[4151.00 --> 4152.08] and -[4152.08 --> 4152.42] amen -[4152.42 --> 4152.74] let's -[4152.74 --> 4152.88] pray -[4152.88 --> 4153.28] together -[4153.28 --> 4161.38] our -[4161.38 --> 4161.80] father -[4161.80 --> 4162.94] in -[4162.94 --> 4163.20] heaven -[4163.20 --> 4165.58] we -[4165.58 --> 4166.10] thank -[4166.10 --> 4166.42] you -[4166.42 --> 4167.12] for -[4167.12 --> 4167.34] who -[4167.34 --> 4167.56] you -[4167.56 --> 4167.90] are -[4167.90 --> 4169.02] and -[4169.02 --> 4169.18] for -[4169.18 --> 4169.48] what -[4169.48 --> 4169.64] you -[4169.64 --> 4169.78] have -[4169.78 --> 4170.08] done -[4170.08 --> 4170.80] we -[4170.80 --> 4171.16] thank -[4171.16 --> 4171.38] you -[4171.38 --> 4171.64] for -[4171.64 --> 4172.18] the -[4172.18 --> 4172.48] way -[4172.48 --> 4172.70] you -[4172.70 --> 4173.42] transform -[4173.42 --> 4174.08] our -[4174.08 --> 4174.66] lives -[4174.66 --> 4174.88] and -[4174.88 --> 4175.12] now -[4175.12 --> 4175.66] call -[4175.66 --> 4176.24] us -[4176.24 --> 4177.22] forward -[4177.22 --> 4177.64] in -[4177.64 --> 4178.08] faith -[4178.08 --> 4180.58] preserve -[4180.58 --> 4181.54] us -[4181.54 --> 4182.22] as we -[4182.22 --> 4182.92] persevere -[4182.92 --> 4183.24] in -[4183.24 --> 4183.98] faithfulness -[4183.98 --> 4186.82] strengthen -[4186.82 --> 4187.66] our hearts -[4187.66 --> 4188.16] and our -[4188.16 --> 4188.60] minds -[4188.60 --> 4188.88] and -[4188.88 --> 4191.82] enlighten -[4191.82 --> 4192.12] our -[4192.12 --> 4193.06] imaginations -[4193.06 --> 4194.84] so that -[4194.84 --> 4194.98] we -[4194.98 --> 4195.28] might -[4195.28 --> 4195.66] see -[4195.66 --> 4195.92] that -[4195.92 --> 4196.52] all -[4196.52 --> 4197.14] things -[4197.14 --> 4197.62] all -[4197.62 --> 4198.08] things -[4198.08 --> 4198.68] are -[4198.68 --> 4199.28] possible -[4199.28 --> 4200.24] with -[4200.24 --> 4200.50] you -[4200.50 --> 4202.04] in -[4202.04 --> 4202.38] Jesus -[4202.38 --> 4202.90] name -[4202.90 --> 4203.22] we -[4203.22 --> 4203.60] pray -[4203.60 --> 4205.10] amen -[4205.10 --> 4206.50] amen -[4206.50 --> 4212.26] the -[4212.26 --> 4212.68] ground -[4212.68 --> 4213.20] of -[4213.20 --> 4213.60] our -[4213.60 --> 4214.22] faith -[4214.22 --> 4215.02] is -[4215.02 --> 4215.44] Jesus -[4215.44 --> 4216.00] Christ -[4216.00 --> 4217.18] who -[4217.18 --> 4217.34] is -[4217.34 --> 4217.54] made -[4217.54 --> 4217.82] known -[4217.82 --> 4218.06] to -[4218.06 --> 4218.52] us -[4218.52 --> 4219.22] through -[4219.22 --> 4219.46] his -[4219.46 --> 4219.82] word -[4219.82 --> 4221.10] which -[4221.10 --> 4221.52] is -[4221.52 --> 4221.90] then -[4221.90 --> 4222.20] in -[4222.20 --> 4222.60] part -[4222.60 --> 4223.62] confirmed -[4223.62 --> 4224.64] in -[4224.64 --> 4224.80] the -[4224.80 --> 4225.18] sacrament -[4225.18 --> 4226.74] so -[4226.74 --> 4226.90] there -[4226.90 --> 4227.04] is -[4227.04 --> 4227.20] a -[4227.20 --> 4227.48] straight -[4227.48 --> 4227.96] line -[4227.96 --> 4228.96] from -[4228.96 --> 4229.14] where -[4229.14 --> 4229.32] we -[4229.32 --> 4229.60] just -[4229.60 --> 4229.96] were -[4229.96 --> 4230.90] to -[4230.90 --> 4231.08] where -[4231.08 --> 4231.26] we -[4231.26 --> 4231.40] are -[4231.40 --> 4231.74] going -[4231.74 --> 4232.74] and -[4232.74 --> 4232.88] to -[4232.88 --> 4233.04] where -[4233.04 --> 4233.22] we -[4233.22 --> 4233.38] are -[4233.38 --> 4233.68] sent -[4233.68 --> 4235.06] and -[4235.06 --> 4235.16] that -[4235.16 --> 4235.42] line -[4235.42 --> 4235.64] goes -[4235.64 --> 4235.80] through -[4235.80 --> 4236.02] this -[4236.02 --> 4236.38] table -[4236.38 --> 4237.50] we -[4237.50 --> 4237.70] come -[4237.70 --> 4237.84] to -[4237.84 --> 4237.98] the -[4237.98 --> 4238.30] table -[4238.30 --> 4238.60] this -[4238.60 --> 4239.12] morning -[4239.12 --> 4240.68] met -[4240.68 --> 4241.20] by -[4241.20 --> 4241.90] God -[4241.90 --> 4242.42] in -[4242.42 --> 4242.74] our -[4242.74 --> 4243.26] shared -[4243.26 --> 4244.14] worship -[4244.14 --> 4244.44] and -[4244.44 --> 4244.60] so -[4244.60 --> 4244.78] we -[4244.78 --> 4245.26] come -[4245.26 --> 4245.58] with -[4245.58 --> 4246.46] some -[4246.46 --> 4247.36] practices -[4247.36 --> 4247.94] of -[4247.94 --> 4248.62] liturgy -[4248.62 --> 4249.12] and -[4249.12 --> 4249.76] words -[4249.76 --> 4250.14] that -[4250.14 --> 4250.58] gather -[4250.58 --> 4251.14] us -[4251.14 --> 4251.86] together -[4251.86 --> 4252.88] here -[4252.88 --> 4253.80] I -[4253.80 --> 4254.10] invite -[4254.10 --> 4254.34] you -[4254.34 --> 4254.62] to -[4254.62 --> 4255.02] speak -[4255.02 --> 4255.26] the -[4255.26 --> 4255.66] words -[4255.66 --> 4255.84] you -[4255.84 --> 4256.10] see -[4256.10 --> 4256.30] on -[4256.30 --> 4256.42] the -[4256.42 --> 4256.72] screen -[4256.72 --> 4257.12] behind -[4257.12 --> 4257.38] me -[4257.38 --> 4258.38] as -[4258.38 --> 4258.56] you -[4258.56 --> 4258.76] are -[4258.76 --> 4259.32] indicated -[4259.32 --> 4259.86] to -[4259.86 --> 4261.36] church -[4261.36 --> 4261.78] family -[4261.78 --> 4263.04] today -[4263.04 --> 4263.58] we -[4263.58 --> 4264.00] ask -[4264.00 --> 4264.28] for -[4264.28 --> 4264.66] faith -[4264.66 --> 4264.88] that -[4264.88 --> 4265.04] will -[4265.04 --> 4265.34] open -[4265.34 --> 4265.58] our -[4265.58 --> 4265.98] eyes -[4265.98 --> 4266.18] to -[4266.18 --> 4266.48] see -[4266.48 --> 4266.96] Jesus -[4266.96 --> 4267.36] for -[4267.36 --> 4267.72] who -[4267.72 --> 4268.36] he -[4268.36 --> 4269.14] is -[4269.14 --> 4269.34] that -[4269.34 --> 4269.48] we -[4269.48 --> 4269.70] might -[4269.70 --> 4270.38] receive -[4270.38 --> 4270.86] him -[4270.86 --> 4271.44] in -[4271.44 --> 4271.90] truth -[4271.90 --> 4273.08] people -[4273.08 --> 4273.32] of -[4273.32 --> 4273.78] God -[4273.78 --> 4274.42] behold -[4274.42 --> 4274.92] and -[4274.92 --> 4275.46] see -[4275.46 --> 4276.16] your -[4276.16 --> 4276.92] God -[4276.92 --> 4279.02] we -[4279.02 --> 4279.26] open -[4279.26 --> 4279.50] our -[4279.50 --> 4279.94] ears -[4279.94 --> 4280.48] to see -[4280.48 --> 4280.74] his -[4280.74 --> 4281.16] glory -[4281.16 --> 4282.18] we -[4282.18 --> 4282.20] we -[4282.20 --> 4282.22] we -[4282.22 --> 4284.34] we -[4284.34 --> 4285.42] we -[4285.42 --> 4285.72] open -[4285.72 --> 4285.98] our -[4285.98 --> 4286.46] hands -[4286.46 --> 4286.72] to -[4286.72 --> 4287.12] offer -[4287.12 --> 4287.40] him -[4287.40 --> 4287.80] gifts -[4287.80 --> 4288.80] we -[4288.80 --> 4289.10] open -[4289.10 --> 4289.36] our -[4289.36 --> 4289.88] mouths -[4289.88 --> 4290.14] to -[4290.14 --> 4290.44] sing -[4290.44 --> 4290.70] his -[4290.70 --> 4291.16] praise -[4291.16 --> 4291.78] and -[4291.78 --> 4292.24] receive -[4292.24 --> 4292.80] his -[4292.80 --> 4293.26] mercy -[4293.26 --> 4293.54] and -[4293.54 --> 4293.94] grace -[4293.94 --> 4295.50] hallelujah -[4295.50 --> 4296.12] he -[4296.12 --> 4296.86] is -[4296.86 --> 4297.36] Lord -[4297.36 --> 4298.26] amen -[4298.26 --> 4301.14] our -[4301.14 --> 4301.34] Lord -[4301.34 --> 4301.72] Jesus -[4301.72 --> 4302.52] and his -[4302.52 --> 4302.90] real -[4302.90 --> 4303.46] spiritual -[4303.46 --> 4304.06] presence -[4304.06 --> 4304.78] among us -[4304.78 --> 4305.18] comes -[4305.18 --> 4305.94] to us -[4305.94 --> 4306.84] in the -[4306.84 --> 4307.10] supper -[4307.10 --> 4308.42] and -[4308.42 --> 4308.58] the -[4308.58 --> 4308.76] Lord -[4308.76 --> 4309.12] Jesus -[4309.12 --> 4309.62] on -[4309.62 --> 4309.78] the -[4309.78 --> 4310.00] night -[4310.00 --> 4310.16] that -[4310.16 --> 4310.28] he -[4310.28 --> 4310.50] was -[4310.50 --> 4310.94] betrayed -[4310.94 --> 4311.62] took -[4311.62 --> 4312.06] bread -[4312.06 --> 4312.48] and -[4312.48 --> 4312.60] when -[4312.60 --> 4312.70] he -[4312.70 --> 4312.82] had -[4312.82 --> 4313.06] given -[4313.06 --> 4313.60] thanks -[4313.60 --> 4313.94] he -[4313.94 --> 4314.68] broke -[4314.68 --> 4315.06] it -[4315.06 --> 4315.58] and -[4315.58 --> 4316.38] said -[4316.38 --> 4317.30] this -[4317.30 --> 4317.70] is -[4317.70 --> 4318.02] my -[4318.02 --> 4318.48] body -[4318.48 --> 4318.92] which -[4318.92 --> 4319.12] is -[4319.12 --> 4319.32] for -[4319.32 --> 4319.58] you -[4319.58 --> 4320.32] do -[4320.32 --> 4320.84] this -[4320.84 --> 4321.14] in -[4321.14 --> 4321.64] remembrance -[4321.64 --> 4322.40] of -[4322.40 --> 4322.70] me -[4322.70 --> 4326.04] and -[4326.04 --> 4326.16] in -[4326.16 --> 4326.30] the -[4326.30 --> 4326.52] same -[4326.52 --> 4326.90] way -[4326.90 --> 4327.38] he -[4327.38 --> 4327.62] took -[4327.62 --> 4327.82] the -[4327.82 --> 4328.14] cup -[4328.14 --> 4328.76] after -[4328.76 --> 4329.16] supper -[4329.16 --> 4330.02] saying -[4330.02 --> 4330.84] this -[4330.84 --> 4331.30] cup -[4331.30 --> 4331.76] is -[4331.76 --> 4332.04] the -[4332.04 --> 4332.28] new -[4332.28 --> 4332.70] covenant -[4332.70 --> 4333.66] in -[4333.66 --> 4333.90] my -[4333.90 --> 4334.30] blood -[4334.30 --> 4335.98] do -[4335.98 --> 4336.46] this -[4336.46 --> 4337.00] whenever -[4337.00 --> 4337.32] you -[4337.32 --> 4337.62] drink -[4337.62 --> 4337.86] it -[4337.86 --> 4338.24] in -[4338.24 --> 4338.70] remembrance -[4338.70 --> 4339.58] of -[4339.58 --> 4339.88] me -[4339.88 --> 4340.44] for -[4340.44 --> 4340.70] whenever -[4340.70 --> 4340.96] you -[4340.96 --> 4341.24] eat -[4341.24 --> 4341.54] this -[4341.54 --> 4341.88] bread -[4341.88 --> 4342.16] and -[4342.16 --> 4342.50] drink -[4342.50 --> 4342.84] this -[4342.84 --> 4343.14] cup -[4343.14 --> 4343.70] we -[4343.70 --> 4344.14] proclaim -[4344.14 --> 4344.50] the -[4344.50 --> 4344.88] Lord's -[4344.88 --> 4345.16] death -[4345.16 --> 4345.90] until -[4345.90 --> 4346.54] he -[4346.54 --> 4347.08] comes -[4347.08 --> 4347.88] again -[4347.88 --> 4349.52] and -[4349.52 --> 4349.68] so -[4349.68 --> 4350.12] come -[4350.12 --> 4350.94] then -[4350.94 --> 4351.36] for -[4351.36 --> 4351.82] all -[4351.82 --> 4352.46] is -[4352.46 --> 4353.20] ready -[4353.20 --> 4354.34] Christ -[4354.34 --> 4354.70] was -[4354.70 --> 4355.18] raised -[4355.18 --> 4355.70] to -[4355.70 --> 4356.12] life -[4356.12 --> 4356.62] death -[4356.62 --> 4357.04] is -[4357.04 --> 4357.54] swallowed -[4357.54 --> 4357.90] up -[4357.90 --> 4358.50] victory -[4358.50 --> 4359.50] is -[4359.50 --> 4360.40] won -[4360.40 --> 4361.76] hallelujah -[4361.76 --> 4363.22] therefore -[4363.22 --> 4364.02] we -[4364.02 --> 4364.52] keep -[4364.52 --> 4365.14] the -[4365.14 --> 4365.74] feast -[4365.74 --> 4367.20] hallelujah -[4367.20 --> 4369.74] congregation -[4369.74 --> 4370.12] of -[4370.12 --> 4370.34] Jesus -[4370.34 --> 4370.76] Christ -[4370.76 --> 4372.38] the -[4372.38 --> 4372.68] Lord -[4372.68 --> 4373.34] has -[4373.34 --> 4373.68] prepared -[4373.68 --> 4373.94] his -[4373.94 --> 4374.32] table -[4374.32 --> 4375.16] for -[4375.16 --> 4375.64] true -[4375.64 --> 4376.56] believers -[4376.56 --> 4378.36] if -[4378.36 --> 4378.46] you -[4378.46 --> 4378.62] are -[4378.62 --> 4378.90] sorry -[4378.90 --> 4379.10] for -[4379.10 --> 4379.30] your -[4379.30 --> 4379.72] sins -[4379.72 --> 4379.96] and -[4379.96 --> 4380.08] if -[4380.08 --> 4380.24] you -[4380.24 --> 4381.02] sincerely -[4381.02 --> 4381.58] follow -[4381.58 --> 4381.80] the -[4381.80 --> 4382.02] Lord -[4382.02 --> 4382.34] Jesus -[4382.34 --> 4382.90] Christ -[4382.90 --> 4383.18] as -[4383.18 --> 4383.50] Savior -[4383.50 --> 4384.24] and -[4384.24 --> 4384.58] Lord -[4384.58 --> 4384.88] you -[4384.88 --> 4385.14] are -[4385.14 --> 4385.58] invited -[4385.58 --> 4385.84] to -[4385.84 --> 4386.28] come -[4386.28 --> 4386.64] with -[4386.64 --> 4387.30] gladness -[4387.30 --> 4387.50] to -[4387.50 --> 4387.66] the -[4387.66 --> 4388.10] table -[4388.10 --> 4388.94] of -[4388.94 --> 4389.08] the -[4389.08 --> 4389.34] Lord -[4389.34 --> 4390.70] these -[4390.70 --> 4390.80] are -[4390.80 --> 4390.94] the -[4390.94 --> 4391.14] gifts -[4391.14 --> 4391.34] of -[4391.34 --> 4391.72] God -[4391.72 --> 4392.60] for -[4392.60 --> 4392.74] the -[4392.74 --> 4393.10] people -[4393.10 --> 4394.02] of -[4394.02 --> 4394.38] God -[4394.38 --> 4395.76] amen -[4395.76 --> 4397.64] as -[4397.64 --> 4397.80] we -[4397.80 --> 4398.18] come -[4398.18 --> 4398.60] to -[4398.60 --> 4398.84] the -[4398.84 --> 4399.18] table -[4399.18 --> 4399.68] together -[4399.68 --> 4400.78] we -[4400.78 --> 4400.94] will -[4400.94 --> 4401.12] do -[4401.12 --> 4401.56] so -[4401.56 --> 4402.32] in -[4402.32 --> 4402.66] groups -[4402.66 --> 4402.92] and -[4402.92 --> 4403.08] so -[4403.08 --> 4403.22] we -[4403.22 --> 4403.34] will -[4403.34 --> 4403.56] have -[4403.56 --> 4403.84] some -[4403.84 --> 4404.22] elders -[4404.22 --> 4405.50] functioning -[4405.50 --> 4405.78] as -[4405.78 --> 4406.24] ushers -[4406.24 --> 4406.44] will -[4406.44 --> 4406.64] tell -[4406.64 --> 4406.76] you -[4406.76 --> 4406.90] to -[4406.90 --> 4407.08] come -[4407.08 --> 4407.32] up -[4407.32 --> 4407.80] and -[4407.80 --> 4407.90] we -[4407.90 --> 4408.06] will -[4408.06 --> 4408.38] gather -[4408.38 --> 4408.70] in -[4408.70 --> 4409.08] a -[4409.08 --> 4409.48] circle -[4409.48 --> 4410.00] around -[4410.00 --> 4410.26] the -[4410.26 --> 4410.60] table -[4410.60 --> 4411.08] together -[4411.08 --> 4412.10] as -[4412.10 --> 4412.26] you -[4412.26 --> 4412.68] pass -[4412.68 --> 4413.32] the -[4413.32 --> 4413.70] bread -[4413.70 --> 4414.32] we -[4414.32 --> 4414.70] remind -[4414.70 --> 4414.86] you -[4414.86 --> 4415.04] to -[4415.04 --> 4415.30] say -[4415.30 --> 4415.54] the -[4415.54 --> 4415.88] body -[4415.88 --> 4416.12] of -[4416.12 --> 4416.52] Christ -[4416.52 --> 4416.90] given -[4416.90 --> 4417.18] for -[4417.18 --> 4417.40] you -[4417.40 --> 4417.96] as -[4417.96 --> 4418.10] you -[4418.10 --> 4418.42] pass -[4418.42 --> 4418.64] the -[4418.64 --> 4419.02] juice -[4419.02 --> 4419.38] we -[4419.38 --> 4419.80] encourage -[4419.80 --> 4419.96] you -[4419.96 --> 4420.10] to -[4420.10 --> 4420.34] say -[4420.34 --> 4420.54] the -[4420.54 --> 4420.92] blood -[4420.92 --> 4421.16] of -[4421.16 --> 4421.52] Christ -[4421.52 --> 4421.98] shed -[4421.98 --> 4422.42] for -[4422.42 --> 4422.62] you -[4422.62 --> 4423.86] if -[4423.86 --> 4424.18] you -[4424.18 --> 4425.10] require -[4425.10 --> 4425.46] gluten -[4425.46 --> 4425.76] free -[4425.76 --> 4426.12] bread -[4426.12 --> 4426.38] in -[4426.38 --> 4426.64] each -[4426.64 --> 4426.92] tray -[4426.92 --> 4427.20] there's -[4427.20 --> 4427.30] a -[4427.30 --> 4427.42] little -[4427.42 --> 4427.74] cup -[4427.74 --> 4427.96] in -[4427.96 --> 4428.08] the -[4428.08 --> 4428.28] middle -[4428.28 --> 4428.60] that -[4428.60 --> 4428.78] has -[4428.78 --> 4429.02] gluten -[4429.02 --> 4429.28] free -[4429.28 --> 4429.54] bread -[4429.54 --> 4430.42] if -[4430.42 --> 4430.54] you -[4430.54 --> 4430.68] are -[4430.68 --> 4431.04] unable -[4431.04 --> 4431.40] to -[4431.40 --> 4431.76] come -[4431.76 --> 4431.94] to -[4431.94 --> 4432.08] the -[4432.08 --> 4432.38] front -[4432.38 --> 4433.34] we -[4433.34 --> 4433.76] encourage -[4433.76 --> 4434.18] you -[4434.18 --> 4434.48] to -[4434.48 --> 4434.82] just -[4434.82 --> 4435.04] make -[4435.04 --> 4435.22] that -[4435.22 --> 4435.54] known -[4435.54 --> 4435.80] to -[4435.80 --> 4435.96] the -[4435.96 --> 4436.24] usher -[4436.24 --> 4436.52] and -[4436.52 --> 4436.66] they -[4436.66 --> 4436.80] will -[4436.80 --> 4437.02] meet -[4437.02 --> 4437.30] you -[4437.30 --> 4437.60] where -[4437.60 --> 4437.80] you're -[4437.80 --> 4438.08] at -[4438.08 --> 4438.32] and -[4438.32 --> 4438.48] will -[4438.48 --> 4438.80] serve -[4438.80 --> 4439.16] you -[4439.16 --> 4439.74] there -[4439.74 --> 4440.06] in -[4440.06 --> 4440.24] your -[4440.24 --> 4440.54] seat -[4440.54 --> 4441.70] the -[4441.70 --> 4441.92] first -[4441.92 --> 4442.24] table -[4442.24 --> 4442.52] is -[4442.52 --> 4442.72] going -[4442.72 --> 4442.86] to -[4442.86 --> 4442.98] be -[4442.98 --> 4443.14] our -[4443.14 --> 4443.46] worship -[4443.46 --> 4444.04] volunteers -[4444.04 --> 4444.36] and -[4444.36 --> 4444.50] our -[4444.50 --> 4444.82] service -[4444.82 --> 4445.14] elders -[4451.98 --> 4452.12] the -[4452.12 --> 4452.40] first -[4452.40 --> 4452.70] table -[4452.70 --> 4452.88] to -[4452.88 --> 4453.08] come -[4453.08 --> 4453.26] up -[4453.26 --> 4453.44] our -[4453.44 --> 4453.72] worship -[4453.72 --> 4454.34] volunteers -[4454.34 --> 4455.24] back -[4455.24 --> 4455.38] of -[4455.38 --> 4455.70] house -[4455.70 --> 4456.30] people -[4456.30 --> 4457.16] to -[4457.16 --> 4457.34] come -[4457.34 --> 4457.70] forward -[4457.70 --> 4457.92] that -[4457.92 --> 4458.06] we -[4458.06 --> 4458.32] might -[4458.32 --> 4459.34] come -[4459.34 --> 4459.84] together -[4459.84 --> 4460.36] as a -[4460.36 --> 4460.62] church -[4460.62 --> 4460.84] to -[4460.84 --> 4461.28] receive -[4461.28 --> 4462.08] our -[4462.08 --> 4462.26] Lord -[4462.26 --> 4462.50] Jesus -[4462.50 --> 4462.86] Christ -[4481.98 --> 4483.42] if -[4483.68 --> 4484.06] God -[4484.16 --> 4484.52] doesn't -[4484.52 --> 4485.58] all -[4485.58 --> 4496.80] P -[4496.80 --> 4498.46] that -[4498.46 --> 4498.90] I -[4498.90 --> 4499.46] and -[4499.46 --> 4499.96] I -[4508.96 --> 4509.46] and -[4509.46 --> 4539.44] Thank you. -[4539.46 --> 4569.44] Thank you. -[4569.46 --> 4599.44] Thank you. -[4599.46 --> 4629.44] Thank you. -[4629.46 --> 4659.44] Thank you. -[4659.46 --> 4661.46] Thank you. -[4689.46 --> 4691.46] Thank you. -[4719.46 --> 4721.46] Thank you. -[4721.46 --> 4723.46] Thank you. -[4751.46 --> 4753.46] Thank you. -[4753.46 --> 4755.46] Thank you. -[4755.46 --> 4757.46] Thank you. -[4757.46 --> 4759.46] Thank you. -[4759.46 --> 4761.46] Thank you. -[4761.46 --> 4763.46] Thank you. -[4763.46 --> 4765.46] Thank you. -[4765.46 --> 4767.46] Thank you. -[4767.46 --> 4769.46] Thank you. -[4769.46 --> 4771.46] Thank you. -[4771.46 --> 4775.46] Thank you. -[4775.46 --> 4777.46] Thank you. -[4777.46 --> 4779.46] Thank you. -[4779.46 --> 4781.46] Thank you. -[4781.46 --> 4783.46] Thank you. -[4783.46 --> 4785.46] Thank you. -[4785.46 --> 4787.46] Amen. -[4787.46 --> 4793.46] Thank you. -[4793.46 --> 4795.46] Thank you. -[4795.46 --> 4799.00] down before him -[4799.00 --> 4804.26] for he is Lord of all -[4804.26 --> 4807.14] sing hallelujah -[4807.14 --> 4810.66] Christ is risen -[4810.66 --> 4816.82] oh what a Savior -[4816.82 --> 4822.72] oh is he wonderful -[4822.72 --> 4826.36] sing hallelujah -[4826.36 --> 4829.80] Christ is risen -[4829.80 --> 4837.08] bow down before him -[4837.08 --> 4842.48] for he is Lord of all -[4842.48 --> 4845.40] sing hallelujah -[4845.40 --> 4848.36] Christ is risen -[4852.72 --> 4858.36] oh come to the altar -[4858.36 --> 4863.98] the Father's arms are open wide -[4863.98 --> 4868.48] forgiveness was brought with -[4868.48 --> 4873.68] the precious blood of Jesus Christ -[4873.68 --> 4877.48] oh come to the altar -[4877.48 --> 4883.04] the Father's arms are open wide -[4883.04 --> 4887.34] forgiveness was brought with -[4887.34 --> 4893.12] the precious blood of Jesus Christ -[4893.12 --> 4906.98] bear the cross as you wait for the crown -[4906.98 --> 4912.60] tell the world of the treasure you've found -[4912.60 --> 4926.26] I hope now -[4932.36 --> 4934.36] return -[4934.36 --> 4964.34] piano plays softly -[4964.34 --> 4994.32] piano plays softly -[4994.34 --> 5001.34] piano plays softly -[5001.34 --> 5005.34] One final breath came -[5005.88 --> 5008.34] As heaven looked away -[5009.06 --> 5014.34] The Son of God was laid in darkness -[5015.18 --> 5018.34] A battle in the grave -[5018.34 --> 5022.50] The war on death was waged -[5022.50 --> 5027.34] The power of hell forever broken -[5027.34 --> 5032.28] The ground began to shake -[5032.28 --> 5035.34] The stone was rolled away -[5035.34 --> 5040.34] His perfect love could not be overcome -[5040.34 --> 5045.34] Now death, where is your sin? -[5045.34 --> 5048.56] A resurrected King -[5048.56 --> 5052.34] Has threatened you defeated -[5052.34 --> 5058.34] Forever He is glorified -[5059.34 --> 5065.34] Forever He is lifted up -[5065.34 --> 5070.34] Forever He is risen -[5070.34 --> 5073.34] He is alive -[5073.34 --> 5076.34] He is alive -[5076.34 --> 5083.34] The ground began to shake -[5083.34 --> 5086.34] The stone was rolled away -[5086.34 --> 5091.34] His perfect love could not be overcome -[5091.34 --> 5093.34] His perfect love could not be overcome -[5093.34 --> 5095.34] Now death, where is your sin? -[5095.34 --> 5097.34] Our resurrected King -[5097.34 --> 5101.34] Has threatened you defeated -[5101.34 --> 5106.34] Forever He is glorified -[5106.34 --> 5110.34] Forever He is glorified -[5110.34 --> 5116.34] Forever He is lifted up -[5116.34 --> 5121.34] Forever He is risen -[5121.34 --> 5122.34] He is risen -[5122.34 --> 5123.34] He is steady -[5123.34 --> 5124.34] He is risen -[5124.34 --> 5126.34] He is risen -[5126.34 --> 5128.34] He is alive -[5128.34 --> 5135.80] Forever He is glorified -[5135.80 --> 5141.04] Forever He is risen -[5141.04 --> 5146.94] Forever He is risen -[5146.94 --> 5153.04] He is alive, He is alive -[5153.04 --> 5158.90] We sing hallelujah -[5158.90 --> 5162.08] We sing hallelujah -[5162.08 --> 5165.28] We sing hallelujah -[5165.28 --> 5168.44] The land that's overcome -[5168.44 --> 5171.62] We sing hallelujah -[5171.62 --> 5174.78] We sing hallelujah -[5174.78 --> 5177.90] We sing hallelujah -[5177.90 --> 5180.60] The Lord has overcome -[5180.60 --> 5184.16] We sing hallelujah -[5184.16 --> 5187.34] We sing hallelujah -[5187.34 --> 5190.46] We sing hallelujah -[5190.46 --> 5193.04] The Lord has overcome -[5193.04 --> 5204.86] Forever He is glorified -[5204.86 --> 5211.06] Forever He is lifted high -[5211.06 --> 5215.86] Forever He is risen -[5215.86 --> 5221.42] He is alive, He is alive -[5221.42 --> 5229.50] Forever He is glorified -[5229.50 --> 5235.96] Forever He is lifted high -[5235.96 --> 5241.00] Forever He is risen -[5241.00 --> 5246.50] He is alive, He is alive -[5246.50 --> 5251.76] Forever He is risen -[5251.76 --> 5267.94] icherung -[5267.94 --> 5281.08] I'm forgiven because you were forsaken. -[5282.46 --> 5284.34] I'm accepted. -[5285.78 --> 5287.40] You were condemned. -[5289.60 --> 5291.86] I'm alive and well. -[5291.86 --> 5295.02] Your spirit is within me. -[5295.02 --> 5299.54] Because you died and rose again. -[5302.36 --> 5307.64] I'm forgiven because you were forsaken. -[5309.06 --> 5311.00] I'm accepted. -[5312.40 --> 5314.08] You were condemned. -[5316.40 --> 5318.46] I'm alive and well. -[5318.46 --> 5321.40] Your spirit is within me. -[5321.40 --> 5326.92] Because you died and rose again. -[5326.92 --> 5333.92] Amazing love, how can it be? -[5336.10 --> 5339.92] That you, my King, would die for me. -[5339.92 --> 5347.72] Amazing love, I know it's true. -[5349.18 --> 5352.60] It's my joy to honor you. -[5353.66 --> 5359.16] In all I do, I honor you. -[5359.16 --> 5366.80] I'm forgiven because you were forsaken. -[5368.12 --> 5370.00] I'm accepted. -[5371.38 --> 5373.06] You were condemned. -[5375.30 --> 5377.32] I'm alive and well. -[5377.50 --> 5380.34] Your spirit is within me. -[5380.34 --> 5385.22] Because you died and rose again. -[5385.22 --> 5392.22] Amazing love, how can it be? -[5392.22 --> 5393.22] How can it be? -[5393.22 --> 5398.22] That you, my King, would die for me? -[5398.22 --> 5406.22] Amazing love, I know it's true. -[5406.22 --> 5411.22] And it's my joy to honor you. -[5411.22 --> 5418.22] In all I do, I honor you. -[5418.22 --> 5424.22] You are my King. -[5424.22 --> 5431.22] You are my King. -[5431.22 --> 5437.22] Jesus, you are my King. -[5437.22 --> 5443.22] Jesus, you are my King. -[5443.22 --> 5450.22] Amazing love, how can it be? -[5450.22 --> 5452.22] Amazing love, how can it be? -[5452.22 --> 5457.22] That you, my King, would die for me? -[5457.22 --> 5462.22] Amazing love, I know it's true. -[5462.22 --> 5469.22] And it's my joy to honor you. -[5469.22 --> 5476.22] In all I do, I honor you. -[5476.22 --> 5481.22] In all I do, I honor you. -[5481.22 --> 5485.22] In all I do, I honor you. -[5489.22 --> 5491.22] Let's go to Revelation song. -[5492.22 --> 5494.22] Hence and pray. -[5494.22 --> 5524.20] Thank you. -[5524.22 --> 5554.20] Thank you. -[5554.22 --> 5556.22] Thank you. -[5584.22 --> 5594.22] Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come. -[5594.22 --> 5603.22] With all creation I sing praise to the King of kings. -[5603.22 --> 5611.22] You are my everything and I will adore you. -[5611.22 --> 5613.22] Thank you. -[5613.22 --> 5615.22] Thank you. -[5615.22 --> 5623.22] Thank you. -[5623.22 --> 5625.22] Thank you. -[5625.22 --> 5627.22] Thank you. -[5627.22 --> 5629.22] Thank you. -[5629.22 --> 5631.22] Thank you. -[5631.22 --> 5633.22] Thank you. -[5633.22 --> 5635.22] Thank you. -[5635.22 --> 5637.22] Thank you. -[5637.22 --> 5639.22] Thank you. -[5639.22 --> 5641.22] Thank you. -[5641.22 --> 5643.22] Thank you. -[5643.22 --> 5645.22] Thank you. -[5645.22 --> 5651.22] Thank you. -[5651.22 --> 5653.22] Thank you. -[5653.22 --> 5655.22] Thank you. -[5655.22 --> 5661.54] the lord god almighty who was and is and is to come -[5665.46 --> 5675.86] with all creation i sing praise to the king of kings you are my everything and i will -[5685.22 --> 5704.14] so -[5704.14 --> 5711.88] Filled with wonder, awestruck wonder -[5711.88 --> 5718.00] Have the mention of your name -[5718.00 --> 5725.26] Filled with wonder, awestruck wonder -[5725.26 --> 5732.00] Have the mention of your name -[5732.00 --> 5736.00] Jesus, your name is power -[5736.00 --> 5739.44] Breath of living water -[5739.44 --> 5743.44] Such a marvelous mystery -[5743.44 --> 5749.50] Holy, holy, holy -[5749.50 --> 5752.50] Is the Lord God Almighty -[5752.50 --> 5757.10] Who was and is and is to come -[5757.10 --> 5763.04] With all creation I sing -[5763.04 --> 5766.28] Praise to the King of kings -[5766.28 --> 5768.66] You are my everything -[5768.66 --> 5773.10] And I will adore you -[5773.10 --> 5776.30] Holy, holy, holy -[5776.30 --> 5779.26] Is the Lord God Almighty -[5779.26 --> 5785.20] Who was and is and is to come -[5785.20 --> 5789.98] With all creation I sing -[5789.98 --> 5792.58] Praise to the King of kings -[5792.58 --> 5795.64] You are my everything -[5795.64 --> 5800.20] And I will adore you -[5800.20 --> 5829.16] Since it is true -[5829.16 --> 5830.70] That God is real -[5830.70 --> 5832.82] Since it is true -[5832.82 --> 5833.92] That God is here -[5833.92 --> 5835.16] And he is doing something -[5835.86 --> 5837.12] Among us -[5837.12 --> 5838.46] It is also true -[5838.46 --> 5840.06] That God goes with you -[5840.06 --> 5843.80] And so we are sent out -[5843.80 --> 5847.46] In and with the power of our God -[5847.46 --> 5851.46] And so receive his blessing -[5851.46 --> 5855.58] God go before you -[5855.58 --> 5856.62] To lead you -[5856.62 --> 5858.78] God go behind you -[5858.78 --> 5859.90] To protect you -[5859.90 --> 5862.76] God go beneath you -[5862.76 --> 5864.04] To support you -[5864.04 --> 5866.44] And God go beside you -[5866.44 --> 5867.50] To befriend you -[5867.50 --> 5870.06] Do not be afraid -[5870.06 --> 5871.74] Let the blessing of God -[5871.74 --> 5872.68] Come upon you today -[5872.68 --> 5874.32] Do not be afraid -[5874.32 --> 5876.50] But go in peace -[5876.50 --> 5879.38] To love and serve the Lord -[5879.38 --> 5881.04] Amen -[5881.04 --> 5903.26] Now unto the King eternal -[5903.26 --> 5909.80] Unto the King immortal -[5909.80 --> 5915.80] Unto the King invisible -[5915.80 --> 5922.02] The only wise God -[5922.02 --> 5928.56] The only wise God -[5928.56 --> 5929.56] The only wise God -[5929.56 --> 5934.56] Now unto the King eternal -[5934.56 --> 5939.10] Unto the King eternal -[5939.10 --> 5941.10] Unto the King immortal -[5941.10 --> 5943.10] Unto the King immortal -[5943.10 --> 5947.10] Unto the King invisible -[5947.10 --> 5951.10] Unto the King invisible -[5951.10 --> 5953.10] The only wise God -[5953.10 --> 5956.10] The only wise God -[5956.10 --> 5962.64] The only wise God -[5962.64 --> 5963.64] The only wise God -[5963.64 --> 5964.64] The only wise God -[5964.64 --> 5966.64] The only wise God -[5966.64 --> 5968.64] Oh unto the King -[5968.64 --> 5970.18] Unto the King -[5970.18 --> 5975.18] Be glory and honor -[5975.18 --> 5979.18] Unto the King forever -[5979.18 --> 5981.72] Unto the King -[5981.72 --> 5982.72] Unto the King -[5982.72 --> 5983.72] Unto the King -[5983.72 --> 5985.72] Be glory and honor -[5985.72 --> 6006.98] Mount -[6006.98 --> 6009.74] Amen -[6009.74 --> 6011.38] Amen. -[6039.74 --> 6041.74] Amen. -[6069.74 --> 6071.74] Amen. -[6099.74 --> 6101.74] Amen. -[6129.74 --> 6131.74] Amen. -[6159.74 --> 6161.74] Amen. -[6189.74 --> 6191.74] Amen. -[6219.74 --> 6221.74] Amen. -[6249.74 --> 6251.74] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, May 12, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, May 12, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 5fef5a99f4028a5119fb6c7b09a9ff6bb5d63af6..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, May 12, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,97 +0,0 @@ -• Prayer for mothers and those struggling with motherhood -• Celebration of Jerry Jansen's upcoming 95th birthday -• Request for healing for John Koning from stage four melanoma -• Introduction of new office bearers to the congregation -• Gratitude for outgoing council members' service -• Awareness of community needs and requests for prayer -• Struggles with modern life, including mental health, social media, and relationships -• Need for a deeper connection with God and His Holy Spirit -• Praise for Chris and Kevin's sermon series on Romans and their dedication to preaching the gospel -• Reading from Romans 15:14-33, discussing Paul's ministry and his desire to preach the gospel to those who have not heard it -• Plans for visiting Jerusalem and then Spain, with a request for prayer support -• Paul expresses his joy and thankfulness for the state of the church in Rome. -• He writes to them as a reminder, not to correct or introduce new gospel knowledge, but to encourage their existing faith. -• The life of a Christian requires sacrifice, specifically the sacrifice of everything with love and joy. -• Paul explains that he is offering the Gentiles to Christ through his ministry, likening it to a priestly duty. -• He describes this sacrifice as a thanksgiving offering, not a sin offering, and compares it to the sacrifice of the firstborn lamb in the Old Testament. -• Christians are called to live as living sacrifices, placing every part of themselves on an altar daily. -• Paul's ministry is seen as a giant thanksgiving offering to God for the gift of Christ and his conversion. -• Paul's ministry as a priest to the Gentiles -• His role in proclaiming Jesus' name to those who have not heard it before -• Connection to Isaiah 52 and its prophecy of people coming to know and understand the servant of the Lord, Jesus -• The suffering servant passage in Isaiah 53 and its relation to Paul's ministry -• Israel's refusal to see God's plan and the Gentiles' understanding instead -• The fulfillment of Isaiah 52's prophecy in the Roman church's faith -• Paul's focus on spreading the gospel to a place beyond Rome, specifically Spain -• Paul's population of Spain is mostly Gentile -• Paul's missionary journeys highlighted on maps -• Four missionary journeys: - + First: Cyprus, Pamphylia, Galatia - + Second: Lycia, Pamphylia, Galatia, Macedonia, Achaia - + Third: Galatia, Asia, Macedonia, Achaia, Jerusalem - + Fourth (not recorded in Acts): imprisonment in Caesarea, appeal to Caesar, journey to Rome and then Spain -• Christianity's reach by the second century, highlighted on a map around the Mediterranean -• The spread of Christianity in the first century -• Paul's missionary journeys and the areas he reached by his death -• The expansion of Christianity in the second century -• Paul's potential visit to Spain and its significance -• The importance of spreading faith to "the ends of the earth" -• Jesus' command to the disciples to spread the gospel to all nations -• The Lord tells the disciples they will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes to them. -• They will be witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. -• Paul sees his work as bringing the name of Jesus Christ and good news to the ends of the earth. -• He is willing to sacrifice everything to spread the message to Spain and beyond. -• Paul has a deposit of money from Greek churches to bring to the poor in Jerusalem. -• The Roman church is asked to support this effort, as they have shared in spiritual blessings with the Jews. -• This passage is often misunderstood as implying Christians owe a debt to Israel, but it actually refers to supporting the poor among the saints in Jerusalem. -• Paul's letter emphasizes the importance of helping persecuted Christians. -• The passage discusses the theme of sacrifice and giving in response to persecution. -• A humorous example is given about emptying bank accounts for a fundraising campaign. -• Prayer is specifically mentioned as an important aspect of supporting Paul, who faces challenges. -• An analysis of Acts shows that Paul did eventually make it back to Jerusalem safely. -• The speaker compares prayer to martial arts training, emphasizing the need for focus and dedication -• The Church of Rome is compared to a "corner man" in a boxing match against evil forces -• The book of Acts illustrates how Paul was able to overcome obstacles due to Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, and prayers from the saints -• The speaker encourages listeners to pray with fervor and intensity like Jacob did when wrestling with God -• God is calling believers to ask for impossible and miraculous things in prayer -• The passage relates to the Mexico missions team and how their work builds on the foundation laid by previous missionaries -• Praying with dedication and energy for the church of Langley -• Sacrificing everything, like the Roman Church and other missions teams -• Recognizing the needs of others in ministry and being willing to provide resources and support -• Interceding for missionaries and their work around the world -• Joining forces with missions teams from distant locations through prayer and material aid -• Two types of Christians: those who provide and pray, and those who do the work -• The distinction between "over there" and "here" is not accurate; both are equally called to serve and pray for each other -• Evidence of volunteer work in various ministries within the congregation -• The importance of sacrifice in a Christian's life -• Jesus Christ sacrificed everything to redeem humanity, and so must followers surrender their own desires and needs -• Prayers and hymns -• Sacrifice and faith -• Grace and the Lord's table -• Worship and giving thanks -• Praise to Christ and his power -• Promise of God's presence and guidance -• The Lord's Supper and its significance in commemorating Jesus' sacrifice -• Participation in the sacrament, including those with varying levels of faith or attendance history -• Invitation to come to the table, regardless of spiritual background or experience -• Passing of elements (bread and juice) and saying prayers as part of the communion service -• Instructions for how to participate in the communion service at Emmanuel church -• Announcement for guests unable to attend the front -• Instructions for service at seats -• Invitation to gather at the Lord's table -• Prayer and scripture readings -• Communion service: meaning, significance, and participation -• Reflection on Jesus' sacrifice and forgiveness -• Sharing of bread and drink as a symbol of peace and unity -• Eucharistic prayer and reflection on Christ's sacrifice -• Reference to sharing in bread and wine as a sign of love and bonds around the table of the king -• Description of Christ's blood as cleansing every stain of sin -• Discussion of Christ's gift, crucifixion, and sacrifice -• Praise for the Lamb of God and washing in precious blood -• Reflection on Christ's role in redemption and forgiveness -• Praise for the hands that stirred the bread, feet that walked the dusty roads, and body of Christ -• Praise and worship song about the body of Christ -• References to the resurrection of Christ and its significance -• Blessings from God, including the Lord's blessing and prayer for peace -• Declaration of Christ's eternal kingship and reign -• Repetition of phrases expressing thanks and appreciation \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, May 12, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, May 12, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2160cbf89f8a45a383fc8e21fa13829583f9199d..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, May 12, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1740 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 13.12] was -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[359.98 --> 389.96] Thank you. -[389.98 --> 419.96] Thank you. -[419.98 --> 449.96] Thank you. -[449.98 --> 479.96] Thank you. -[479.98 --> 509.96] Thank you. -[509.98 --> 539.96] Thank you. -[539.96 --> 569.94] Thank you. -[569.96 --> 599.94] Thank you. -[599.94 --> 629.92] Thank you. -[629.92 --> 659.90] Thank you. -[659.92 --> 689.90] Thank you. -[689.92 --> 719.90] So, as we come to the table, we're going to be here. -[719.94 --> 749.88] Thank you. -[749.88 --> 779.86] Thank you. -[779.86 --> 809.84] Thank you. -[809.84 --> 839.82] Thank you. -[839.82 --> 869.80] Thank you. -[869.82 --> 899.80] Thank you. -[899.82 --> 929.80] Thank you. -[929.82 --> 959.80] Thank you. -[959.80 --> 989.78] Thank you. -[989.80 --> 1019.78] Thank you. -[1019.80 --> 1049.78] Thank you. -[1049.80 --> 1079.78] Thank you. -[1079.80 --> 1109.78] Thank you. -[1109.80 --> 1139.78] Thank you. -[1139.80 --> 1169.78] Thank you. -[1169.80 --> 1199.78] Thank you. -[1199.80 --> 1229.78] Thank you. -[1229.78 --> 1259.76] Thank you. -[1259.78 --> 1289.76] Thank you. -[1289.76 --> 1319.74] Thank you. -[1319.74 --> 1349.72] Thank you. -[1349.72 --> 1379.70] Thank you. -[1379.70 --> 1409.68] Thank you. -[1409.70 --> 1439.68] Thank you. -[1439.70 --> 1469.68] Thank you. -[1469.70 --> 1499.68] Thank you. -[1499.70 --> 1529.68] Thank you. -[1529.70 --> 1559.68] Thank you. -[1559.70 --> 1589.68] Thank you. -[1589.68 --> 1619.68] Thank you. -[1619.68 --> 1649.66] Thank you. -[1649.66 --> 1679.64] Thank you. -[1679.64 --> 1709.62] Thank you. -[1709.62 --> 1739.60] Thank you. -[1739.60 --> 1769.58] Thank you. -[1769.60 --> 1799.58] Thank you. -[1799.60 --> 1829.58] Thank you. -[1829.60 --> 1859.58] Thank you. -[1859.60 --> 1889.58] Thank you. -[1889.60 --> 1919.58] Thank you. -[1919.60 --> 1949.58] Thank you. -[1949.60 --> 1979.58] Thank you. -[1979.58 --> 2009.56] Thank you. -[2009.56 --> 2039.54] Thank you. -[2039.54 --> 2069.52] Thank you. -[2069.52 --> 2099.50] Thank you. -[2099.52 --> 2129.50] Thank you. -[2129.50 --> 2159.48] Thank you. -[2159.48 --> 2189.46] Thank you. -[2189.48 --> 2219.46] Thank you. -[2219.48 --> 2249.46] Thank you. -[2249.48 --> 2279.46] Good morning. -[2279.46 --> 2309.44] Thank you. -[2309.44 --> 2339.44] So, -[2339.44 --> 2369.44] Thank you. -[2369.44 --> 2371.44] Can everyone, can everyone, -[2399.44 --> 2429.44] good morning, -[2429.44 --> 2459.42] turn in, you know, -[2459.44 --> 2489.44] cancer, and you know, -[2489.44 --> 2519.44] lovely, clear debut. -[2519.44 --> 2523.36] presence of the Northern Lights the past and nights are a testament to your power and greatness -[2523.36 --> 2530.32] and flair for beauty and surprises in nature that you share with us. Today is Mother's Day, Lord, -[2530.36 --> 2536.10] and we take this day in the year to be intentional about celebrating our mothers. Our moms have a -[2536.10 --> 2542.22] difficult job, but also a rewarding one. The blessing moms are to us for the commitment they -[2542.22 --> 2548.46] have to the responsibility of being a mom is amazing. So Lord, we pray for blessings on them. -[2548.46 --> 2555.62] We pray for strength, health, and joy in their journey as a mom. We also pray, Lord, for those -[2555.62 --> 2561.48] who find Mother's Day difficult, whether it's the longing to be a mom, losing a mom, losing a child, -[2561.62 --> 2567.84] or due to strained relationships. Grant these moms, Lord, comfort and peace and the insurance of your -[2567.84 --> 2573.98] presence in their lives. Lord, we are excited about the 95th birthday for Jerry Jansen this week. -[2573.98 --> 2579.64] She's still a ball of energy and always has a quick time for a quick conversation, whether here at the -[2579.64 --> 2585.52] church or when she's doing her laps up in Murrayville. We are thankful, Lord, for the healing of John -[2585.52 --> 2593.98] Koning as he has received healing from his stage four melanoma. We come to this time of the year, -[2594.06 --> 2598.60] Lord, where we present new office spares to the congregation. We are grateful, Lord, for the -[2598.60 --> 2603.12] commitment of Paul Hummelman, Clary Clostroth, Alison Philpott, and Pearl DeHaan for putting their names -[2603.12 --> 2609.52] forward for these leadership roles. We ask your blessing on the voting process in a couple weeks, -[2609.76 --> 2613.66] and thank you, Lord, for the work and the service of the outgoing council members. -[2616.78 --> 2621.78] Lord, as I look through the midweek memo and scan for prayer requests, it appears there are not many at this time. -[2621.78 --> 2628.02] For that, we are grateful. However, we are well aware that there's much going on in our communities, -[2628.14 --> 2635.12] whether here at church or in our communities outside of church. As I scan my own life, Lord, I'm witness to -[2635.12 --> 2641.34] strained marriages, struggles with raising children, financial struggles, or job dissatisfaction. -[2642.50 --> 2648.26] I see struggles with the mental health and gender confusion issues along with challenges navigating the strange -[2648.26 --> 2652.02] world of social media and the internet for people of all ages. -[2653.54 --> 2657.14] I hear struggles finding a partner to date and have a relationship with, -[2657.86 --> 2663.22] and struggles trying to navigate the amount of news and media coming our way and trying to find the truth in it. -[2664.42 --> 2669.06] This is going on in my world around me, so I'm sure it is for most of us here as well, Lord. -[2670.34 --> 2675.60] The solution, Lord, is more of you in our lives as we ask your Holy Spirit to be relentless -[2675.60 --> 2682.92] in making yourself known to us and to those around us, and because true peace is found in you. -[2684.80 --> 2689.34] Thank you, Lord, for being the rock, for being consistent and truly reliable. -[2689.74 --> 2691.36] You are our Savior and Comforter. -[2692.66 --> 2696.88] We ask, Lord, that you encourage us and walk beside us this week as we go into the world, -[2696.96 --> 2699.08] being a light for you in all our interactions. -[2699.08 --> 2706.46] As we move on to the next step in this service, we ask that you would be with Josh as he brings the word to us this morning. -[2707.28 --> 2710.14] We ask all these things in your mighty name alone, Lord. -[2710.42 --> 2710.76] Amen. -[2729.08 --> 2738.64] Good morning, everyone. -[2739.18 --> 2743.54] We'll be reading from Romans 15, verses 14 to 33 today. -[2744.02 --> 2747.00] And while you're opening your Bibles and your devices to the passage, -[2747.26 --> 2749.86] I just want to say that as Kevin has highlighted, -[2750.02 --> 2754.44] we are now on part 36 of this sermon series in Romans. -[2754.44 --> 2760.90] And I don't know about you, but this year and a half in Romans has been really, really good. -[2761.70 --> 2768.02] I think we all recognize this, but I just wanted to acknowledge how blessed we all are to have Chris and Kevin -[2768.02 --> 2770.52] so expertly go through the book of Romans. -[2771.04 --> 2777.04] And they were too humble to take it, but I think we all really need to thank them for all the work they've put -[2777.04 --> 2781.84] in being good and faithful servants in their preaching in this period. -[2784.44 --> 2792.72] They have highlighted the deep teachings of Romans about how devastating human sin is, -[2793.06 --> 2797.40] God's redemption in Christ, justification, sanctification, glorification, -[2797.92 --> 2801.04] the election of God's people, the work of the Holy Spirit in the church, -[2801.22 --> 2805.54] and the practical working out of our faith in the commands to love God and neighbor. -[2805.54 --> 2810.04] We have covered government, human sexuality, and even food laws. -[2811.26 --> 2814.52] And that is why I want to say it is a privilege to partake in this series, -[2814.86 --> 2816.66] even if it is the part where Paul says goodbye. -[2819.96 --> 2822.92] Let's read Romans 15, verses 14 to 33. -[2822.92 --> 2831.04] I myself am convinced, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, -[2831.62 --> 2834.82] filled with the knowledge and competent to instruct one another. -[2835.64 --> 2839.18] Yet I have written to you quite boldly on some points to remind you of them again. -[2840.54 --> 2844.80] Because of the grace God gave me to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles, -[2844.80 --> 2848.86] He gave me the priestly duty of proclaiming the gospel of God -[2848.86 --> 2851.92] so that the Gentiles might become an offering acceptable to God, -[2852.38 --> 2853.74] sanctified by the Holy Spirit. -[2854.66 --> 2858.04] Therefore I glorify in Christ Jesus in my service to God. -[2858.32 --> 2862.80] I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me -[2862.80 --> 2866.28] in leading the Gentiles to obey by what I have said and done, -[2866.60 --> 2870.26] by the power of signs and wonders, through the power of the Spirit of God. -[2870.26 --> 2873.70] So from Jerusalem all the way through to Illyricum, -[2874.08 --> 2876.80] I have fully proclaimed the gospel of Christ. -[2877.22 --> 2882.10] It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known -[2882.10 --> 2885.14] so that I would not be building on someone else's foundation. -[2885.76 --> 2886.76] Rather, it is written, -[2887.34 --> 2890.14] those who were not told about Him will see -[2890.14 --> 2892.42] and those who have not heard will understand. -[2893.22 --> 2896.34] This is why I have often been hindered from coming to you. -[2896.34 --> 2901.00] But now that there is no more place for me to work in these regions, -[2901.24 --> 2904.28] and since I have been longing for many years to visit you, -[2904.38 --> 2906.16] I plan to do so when I go to Spain. -[2907.00 --> 2909.36] I hope to see you while passing through -[2909.36 --> 2911.44] and to have you assist me on my journey there, -[2911.88 --> 2914.30] after I have enjoyed your company for a while. -[2915.00 --> 2917.54] Now, however, I am on my way to Jerusalem -[2917.54 --> 2919.22] in the service of the Lord's people there. -[2919.88 --> 2923.66] For Macedonia and Achaia were pleased to make a contribution -[2923.66 --> 2926.74] for the poor among the Lord's people in Jerusalem. -[2927.76 --> 2930.74] They were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. -[2931.02 --> 2933.98] For if the Gentiles have shared in the Jews' spiritual blessings, -[2934.10 --> 2936.66] they owe it to the Jews to share with them their material blessings. -[2937.52 --> 2939.58] So, after I have completed this task -[2939.58 --> 2942.38] and have made sure that they have received this contribution, -[2942.64 --> 2945.26] I will go to Spain and visit you on the way. -[2945.90 --> 2947.28] I know that when I come to you, -[2947.38 --> 2951.56] I will come in the full measure of the blessings of Christ. -[2951.56 --> 2953.52] I urge you, brothers and sisters, -[2954.02 --> 2957.24] by your Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit -[2957.24 --> 2960.62] to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me. -[2961.36 --> 2964.50] Pray that I may be kept safe from the unbelievers in Judea -[2964.50 --> 2966.78] and that the contribution I take to Jerusalem -[2966.78 --> 2969.66] may be favorably received by the Lord's people there, -[2970.00 --> 2972.22] so that I may come to you with joy, -[2972.66 --> 2976.06] by God's will and in your company be refreshed. -[2976.50 --> 2977.84] The God of peace be with you all. -[2978.50 --> 2978.70] Amen. -[2978.70 --> 2978.82] Amen. -[2981.56 --> 2986.22] Paul starts this section by telling the church -[2986.22 --> 2988.64] that he is satisfied that they are full of goodness -[2988.64 --> 2990.38] and filled with all knowledge -[2990.38 --> 2992.02] and able to instruct one another -[2992.02 --> 2995.40] and that he has written to them boldly by way of reminder. -[2996.74 --> 2997.72] What is Paul saying here? -[2998.06 --> 3000.50] Well, in chapter 1, verse 8 of Romans, -[3000.96 --> 3004.84] Paul says that he thanks God through Jesus Christ for all of them -[3004.84 --> 3007.90] because their faith is proclaimed around the world. -[3007.90 --> 3013.12] Paul is stoked with the news he hears of this church -[3013.12 --> 3016.88] and he sends this letter not as a correction or as a gospel message -[3016.88 --> 3017.72] they do not know, -[3017.98 --> 3023.44] but rather as a joyful and encouraging reminder of what they already know. -[3024.44 --> 3027.62] Just with his apostolic insights attached, -[3028.38 --> 3030.62] this church understood one of the threads -[3030.62 --> 3033.84] that Paul has been unraveling throughout this entire letter -[3033.84 --> 3037.32] and it is the point that he makes in many of his letters -[3037.32 --> 3040.04] and this is the big idea for today's sermon. -[3041.86 --> 3045.08] The life of a Christian requires sacrifice. -[3046.84 --> 3049.88] The life of a Christian requires sacrifice. -[3051.88 --> 3053.08] Next question would be, -[3053.50 --> 3055.08] what is it that I am sacrificing? -[3055.08 --> 3055.20] Everything. -[3056.80 --> 3057.36] Everything. -[3058.22 --> 3060.12] With love and joy. -[3060.86 --> 3063.96] And that joy Paul feels in this passage. -[3064.46 --> 3066.72] Paul is joyful about the state of this church -[3066.72 --> 3069.64] which leads him to express his other reasons -[3069.64 --> 3071.32] for writing this letter to them. -[3071.80 --> 3074.78] Paul knows he is the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles -[3074.78 --> 3077.90] and he describes it further as a priestly duty -[3077.90 --> 3081.68] and that he is offering the Gentiles to Christ. -[3081.68 --> 3086.44] First, sacrifices by nature would be a sacrifice of your first fruits, -[3086.90 --> 3089.50] your best, the things most valuable to you. -[3089.84 --> 3091.44] Not the lamb who was damaged, -[3091.82 --> 3094.84] but the firstborn lamb who was healthy and desired, -[3095.22 --> 3096.24] flawless even. -[3097.18 --> 3099.90] In the Old Testament there are two prominent types of sacrifices. -[3100.52 --> 3101.18] One would make. -[3101.76 --> 3104.42] A sin offering, which was to atone for sins, -[3104.82 --> 3106.02] and a thanksgiving offering, -[3106.42 --> 3108.68] which was an expression of gratitude towards God. -[3108.68 --> 3111.78] Through our reading of Romans, -[3112.10 --> 3115.58] we know that Paul does not think of this offering of the Gentiles to God -[3115.58 --> 3116.82] as a sin offering. -[3117.28 --> 3119.82] He is not doing this to atone for sins. -[3120.92 --> 3122.98] Christ's sacrifice was the sin offering -[3122.98 --> 3124.54] that ended all sin offerings. -[3124.84 --> 3126.08] He was the perfect lamb, -[3126.48 --> 3127.92] without blemish, flawless. -[3129.36 --> 3130.78] But Paul has spoken already -[3130.78 --> 3133.98] of how we are called to live as living sacrifices. -[3134.36 --> 3136.98] Every part of us is to be placed on an altar -[3136.98 --> 3138.80] daily again and again. -[3139.40 --> 3141.28] Paul writes in Colossians 1.22, -[3141.96 --> 3143.66] But now he has reconciled you -[3143.66 --> 3145.20] by Christ's physical body -[3145.20 --> 3147.10] through death to present you -[3147.10 --> 3149.22] holy and blameless in his sight, -[3149.62 --> 3151.88] without blemish and free from accusation. -[3153.00 --> 3156.14] We are now a blameless lamb, -[3156.32 --> 3158.76] giving of ourselves in thanksgiving to the Lord. -[3160.76 --> 3163.86] Jesus appeared to Paul on the road to Damascus, -[3163.86 --> 3166.74] which led Paul to realize that Christ was the Lord, -[3167.12 --> 3168.52] and from there being baptized. -[3169.22 --> 3171.54] Since then, Paul's entire ministry journey -[3171.54 --> 3174.76] has been one giant thanksgiving offering to God -[3174.76 --> 3176.48] for that undeserving gift. -[3177.62 --> 3179.92] Every Gentile Paul has converted -[3179.92 --> 3182.26] and through and brought to Christ -[3182.26 --> 3183.58] is his first fruits. -[3184.00 --> 3186.34] Every Greek or Jew that has come to the knowledge -[3186.34 --> 3188.84] of their Savior is a fruit of gratitude. -[3188.84 --> 3192.02] Every man or woman saved as a sacrifice -[3192.02 --> 3194.82] given out of joy to the love of the one who saved him. -[3196.06 --> 3197.66] Everything Paul has done, -[3198.56 --> 3200.94] everything Paul has said in this letter, -[3201.38 --> 3202.42] all of his encouragements -[3202.42 --> 3203.66] and the outpouring of his heart -[3203.66 --> 3204.52] to the Romans -[3204.52 --> 3207.96] is not of a legalistic, intellectual elite. -[3208.34 --> 3210.00] This is a man who has been given a gift -[3210.00 --> 3211.76] he could never pay back. -[3212.38 --> 3214.12] And so he does everything he can -[3214.12 --> 3215.68] to live out that gratitude -[3215.68 --> 3218.10] any way he can -[3218.10 --> 3220.14] to the God who saved him. -[3220.98 --> 3223.66] He is sacrificing everything -[3223.66 --> 3226.06] as an offering of thanksgiving. -[3228.88 --> 3231.50] This is what priests do. -[3232.30 --> 3234.24] They present the sacrifices to the Lord -[3234.24 --> 3235.44] and minister to the people. -[3236.12 --> 3239.04] And he sees himself as a minister to the Gentiles. -[3239.70 --> 3241.74] But not just Gentiles. -[3241.74 --> 3244.30] Gentiles who have not yet heard -[3244.30 --> 3245.88] the name of Jesus Christ. -[3246.52 --> 3247.64] He does not want to build -[3247.64 --> 3249.08] on someone else's foundation. -[3249.66 --> 3250.68] His whole ministry -[3250.68 --> 3252.90] has been to proclaim Jesus' name -[3252.90 --> 3254.62] to as many people as possible. -[3255.96 --> 3257.74] And Paul sees this expressed -[3257.74 --> 3259.84] and prophesied in the Old Testament. -[3260.62 --> 3263.64] Paul quotes Isaiah chapter 52 verse 15 -[3263.64 --> 3266.08] in Romans chapter 15 verse 22. -[3267.08 --> 3269.70] Those who have never been told of him will see -[3269.70 --> 3272.02] and those who have never heard will understand. -[3274.36 --> 3276.92] This is the last verse of Isaiah 52. -[3277.62 --> 3279.10] And it's talking about how people -[3279.10 --> 3280.96] would come to know the servant of the Lord. -[3281.16 --> 3282.58] Even if they didn't see him -[3282.58 --> 3284.04] they would come to understand. -[3284.66 --> 3286.18] Right after this is the famous -[3286.18 --> 3288.14] Isaiah chapter 53 passage -[3288.14 --> 3289.06] of the suffering servant. -[3289.76 --> 3291.52] Who has believed our message -[3291.52 --> 3292.98] and to whom has the arm of the Lord -[3292.98 --> 3293.56] been revealed? -[3294.12 --> 3296.16] He grew up before him like a tender shoot -[3296.16 --> 3298.20] and like a root out of dry ground -[3298.20 --> 3299.68] he had no beauty or majesty -[3299.68 --> 3300.82] to attract us to him. -[3301.32 --> 3302.48] Nothing in his appearance -[3302.48 --> 3303.64] that we should desire him. -[3303.96 --> 3306.02] He was despised and rejected by mankind. -[3306.58 --> 3307.46] A man of suffering -[3307.46 --> 3308.70] and familiar with pain. -[3309.08 --> 3310.82] Like one from whom people hide their faces -[3310.82 --> 3311.96] he was despised. -[3312.30 --> 3313.70] And we held him in low esteem. -[3314.82 --> 3316.90] Paul does not see himself as that figure. -[3317.34 --> 3318.26] That would be Jesus. -[3319.02 --> 3320.64] But Paul does see himself -[3320.64 --> 3322.42] as the one who is telling the people -[3322.42 --> 3324.48] in the prophecy about Christ -[3324.48 --> 3325.56] in chapter 52. -[3326.30 --> 3328.30] Those that were never told of him -[3328.30 --> 3329.40] he is the reason -[3329.40 --> 3330.56] they will hear and understand. -[3331.32 --> 3332.56] Paul writing to the Romans -[3332.56 --> 3334.80] right there is a fulfillment -[3334.80 --> 3336.02] of that prophecy. -[3336.84 --> 3338.18] We are a fulfillment -[3338.18 --> 3339.24] of that prophecy. -[3340.08 --> 3340.84] Everyone here -[3340.84 --> 3342.24] never saw Jesus -[3342.24 --> 3344.26] but believes and hears -[3344.26 --> 3345.06] and understands. -[3346.38 --> 3347.78] He is overjoyed -[3347.78 --> 3348.62] in the faith -[3348.62 --> 3349.84] of the Roman church -[3349.84 --> 3352.16] because they are living proof -[3352.16 --> 3354.24] of the truth written by Isaiah. -[3354.48 --> 3356.76] In fact, chapter 52 of Isaiah -[3356.76 --> 3358.74] is about how Israel refuses -[3358.74 --> 3360.34] to see what God is doing -[3360.34 --> 3361.78] and that the world will -[3361.78 --> 3364.50] and the world will understand -[3364.50 --> 3365.60] and not them. -[3366.00 --> 3367.90] Which if you remember earlier in Romans -[3367.90 --> 3370.20] was exactly what Paul said -[3370.20 --> 3370.80] would happen -[3370.80 --> 3372.18] in Romans chapter 11. -[3372.86 --> 3374.02] Israel would be made jealous -[3374.02 --> 3375.20] of the Gentiles' faith -[3375.20 --> 3377.24] and eventually they would come to faith -[3377.24 --> 3377.86] as a result. -[3377.86 --> 3380.32] Now, -[3380.64 --> 3383.04] everything we have learned so far -[3383.04 --> 3384.64] leads us to the next section -[3384.64 --> 3386.44] and this is what we have learned. -[3386.78 --> 3387.00] One, -[3387.62 --> 3389.06] that the Roman church is good -[3389.06 --> 3390.50] and knowledgeable in the faith -[3390.50 --> 3391.62] and two, -[3392.10 --> 3393.72] Paul is a priest minister -[3393.72 --> 3394.68] to Gentiles -[3394.68 --> 3395.68] who have not yet heard -[3395.68 --> 3396.46] the name of Christ. -[3397.70 --> 3398.84] Paul is not focused -[3398.84 --> 3400.36] on going to a place like Rome -[3400.36 --> 3401.16] where he has nothing -[3401.16 --> 3401.82] to teach them. -[3402.44 --> 3403.28] This whole thing -[3403.28 --> 3404.24] has been a reminder -[3404.24 --> 3406.66] but there is a place -[3406.66 --> 3407.98] just beyond Rome -[3407.98 --> 3409.24] that he wants to get to. -[3410.56 --> 3411.00] Spain. -[3412.56 --> 3413.00] Spain, -[3413.16 --> 3413.92] a whole land -[3413.92 --> 3414.94] without a notable -[3414.94 --> 3416.28] Jewish population -[3416.28 --> 3418.16] unlike Greece and Rome. -[3418.40 --> 3419.40] The population of Spain -[3419.40 --> 3420.72] is mostly Gentile. -[3421.18 --> 3421.56] For Paul, -[3421.66 --> 3422.28] that is like being -[3422.28 --> 3423.34] in an all-you-can-eat buffet -[3423.34 --> 3424.26] except all the food -[3424.26 --> 3425.14] is offered to God. -[3428.50 --> 3428.94] Now, -[3429.04 --> 3429.94] with all these names -[3429.94 --> 3430.56] and locations -[3430.56 --> 3432.00] and Paul talking about -[3432.00 --> 3433.06] the places he wants to go -[3433.06 --> 3433.60] and is going, -[3434.24 --> 3434.88] I think it's time -[3434.88 --> 3435.80] to look at some maps -[3435.80 --> 3436.48] and for those -[3436.48 --> 3437.90] not historically inclined, -[3438.16 --> 3438.72] hang on there. -[3438.84 --> 3439.74] This won't take that long. -[3440.74 --> 3440.94] Okay. -[3441.46 --> 3441.76] So, -[3441.94 --> 3442.60] there's some maps up. -[3442.86 --> 3443.24] Pay attention -[3443.24 --> 3444.08] to the colored circles. -[3444.88 --> 3445.04] So, -[3445.14 --> 3445.62] Paul goes on -[3445.62 --> 3446.88] four missionary journeys -[3446.88 --> 3448.36] in his career. -[3448.96 --> 3449.90] The first one, -[3450.02 --> 3450.74] highlighted in yellow, -[3450.90 --> 3452.06] he goes from Cyprus -[3452.06 --> 3453.48] to Pamphylia -[3453.48 --> 3454.46] to Galatia. -[3455.14 --> 3456.24] That second one, -[3456.30 --> 3457.56] it says Lycia there. -[3458.20 --> 3459.48] Pamphylia wasn't on the map -[3459.48 --> 3460.08] so, -[3460.88 --> 3461.74] that's Pamphylia. -[3462.16 --> 3462.30] Just, -[3462.58 --> 3462.72] yeah. -[3462.72 --> 3464.64] The next one -[3464.64 --> 3465.22] is in pink. -[3466.24 --> 3467.06] Paul then goes -[3467.06 --> 3467.86] from Galatia -[3467.86 --> 3468.88] to Macedonia -[3468.88 --> 3470.08] and then Achaia. -[3470.84 --> 3471.54] And the next, -[3472.02 --> 3473.16] his third missionary journey, -[3473.58 --> 3474.76] he goes from Galatia -[3474.76 --> 3475.70] to Asia -[3475.70 --> 3476.78] to Macedonia -[3476.78 --> 3477.62] to Achaia -[3477.62 --> 3478.30] and then back -[3478.30 --> 3478.98] to Jerusalem -[3478.98 --> 3480.16] where we are reading. -[3480.60 --> 3480.92] Which, -[3481.10 --> 3481.88] as we read in Romans, -[3481.96 --> 3483.16] is where he is currently heading -[3483.16 --> 3485.12] and why he takes the Roman, -[3485.28 --> 3486.28] asks the Roman church -[3486.28 --> 3486.78] for money -[3486.78 --> 3487.36] and prayer. -[3487.36 --> 3488.44] And then lastly, -[3488.64 --> 3489.22] in black, -[3489.56 --> 3490.26] we see that -[3490.26 --> 3491.62] the fourth missionary journey, -[3491.76 --> 3492.66] which is not recorded -[3492.66 --> 3493.40] in the Bible, -[3493.52 --> 3494.14] the book of Acts, -[3494.50 --> 3495.38] but is referred to -[3495.38 --> 3496.06] in the epistles -[3496.06 --> 3496.98] and in church history. -[3497.46 --> 3498.74] Starts with his imprisonment -[3498.74 --> 3499.56] in Caesarea -[3499.56 --> 3501.28] where he appeals to Caesar -[3501.28 --> 3502.66] and is then brought to Rome -[3502.66 --> 3503.68] where his boat -[3503.68 --> 3504.34] hits a storm -[3504.34 --> 3505.64] and ship crashes -[3505.64 --> 3506.58] on the island of Malta -[3506.58 --> 3507.90] and they make their way -[3507.90 --> 3508.64] to Rome -[3508.64 --> 3509.30] where he is put -[3509.30 --> 3510.02] under house arrest. -[3510.50 --> 3511.54] He then goes from Rome -[3511.54 --> 3512.10] to Spain, -[3512.34 --> 3513.36] which is not on the map, -[3513.44 --> 3514.10] so there's an arrow -[3514.10 --> 3515.34] pointing to where Spain is, -[3515.34 --> 3516.68] and then Crete -[3516.68 --> 3517.58] and then Asia -[3517.58 --> 3518.48] and then Achaia -[3518.48 --> 3519.34] and Macedonia. -[3520.26 --> 3520.82] And lastly, -[3521.18 --> 3521.94] one more map. -[3522.08 --> 3522.76] We're just about done. -[3523.54 --> 3524.30] This is a map -[3524.30 --> 3525.10] of the total reach -[3525.10 --> 3525.82] of Christianity -[3525.82 --> 3526.92] by the second century, -[3527.02 --> 3527.82] the highlighted part -[3527.82 --> 3528.70] around the Mediterranean. -[3529.46 --> 3530.56] There's two sections -[3530.56 --> 3531.70] which are hard to see -[3531.70 --> 3532.86] and being colorblind, -[3532.94 --> 3533.30] I've been told -[3533.30 --> 3534.16] that the middle section -[3534.16 --> 3534.72] is green, -[3535.24 --> 3537.92] but you'll probably -[3537.92 --> 3538.64] see better than me. -[3540.02 --> 3542.20] The first smaller area -[3542.20 --> 3542.96] is the place -[3542.96 --> 3543.60] where Christianity -[3543.60 --> 3544.80] got in the first century. -[3545.34 --> 3545.78] And if you look, -[3545.86 --> 3546.70] that's all the places -[3546.70 --> 3547.38] Paul went -[3547.38 --> 3548.36] by the time he died. -[3549.06 --> 3550.34] And that bigger area, -[3550.60 --> 3551.52] the darker area, -[3551.98 --> 3553.40] is where Christianity -[3553.40 --> 3554.06] got by the end -[3554.06 --> 3554.96] of the second century. -[3555.22 --> 3555.78] And if you look, -[3556.30 --> 3557.54] Spain is one -[3557.54 --> 3558.28] of those places, -[3558.80 --> 3559.30] which means -[3559.30 --> 3560.28] someone got there. -[3561.60 --> 3562.08] And look, -[3562.62 --> 3564.88] we don't know exactly -[3564.88 --> 3566.14] if he made it to Spain -[3566.14 --> 3567.28] because it's not recorded. -[3567.64 --> 3568.36] But considering -[3568.36 --> 3569.64] the success of the church -[3569.64 --> 3571.48] and that fact -[3571.48 --> 3572.08] that many people -[3572.08 --> 3572.92] suspect he did, -[3572.92 --> 3576.66] we could very well think -[3576.66 --> 3577.10] either him -[3577.10 --> 3577.92] or his disciples -[3577.92 --> 3578.52] got there. -[3578.96 --> 3580.36] But it just wasn't -[3580.36 --> 3581.34] recorded in the Bible -[3581.34 --> 3582.22] because God -[3582.22 --> 3582.98] didn't want it there. -[3583.80 --> 3584.80] As I mentioned before, -[3585.92 --> 3586.48] sorry, -[3587.36 --> 3588.54] why is Spain important? -[3589.00 --> 3589.86] Why does Paul -[3589.86 --> 3591.56] want to get to Spain? -[3591.56 --> 3593.92] As I mentioned before, -[3594.08 --> 3594.88] it has a majority -[3594.88 --> 3595.86] Gentile population, -[3596.02 --> 3597.06] which is a perfect match -[3597.06 --> 3598.08] for Paul's ministry calling. -[3598.84 --> 3599.44] But there are -[3599.44 --> 3600.24] a few other reasons. -[3600.66 --> 3601.30] The other reason -[3601.30 --> 3602.30] is that for the Old Testament -[3602.30 --> 3603.42] people of the Middle East, -[3603.82 --> 3604.56] the coast of Spain -[3604.56 --> 3606.34] was considered -[3606.34 --> 3607.68] the end of the earth, -[3608.22 --> 3608.68] specifically, -[3608.94 --> 3610.04] a city named Tarshish, -[3610.38 --> 3610.66] which, -[3610.80 --> 3611.20] if you remember -[3611.20 --> 3612.04] from the book of Jonah, -[3612.38 --> 3612.90] we learned -[3612.90 --> 3613.56] was the place -[3613.56 --> 3614.72] Jonah wanted to flee to -[3614.72 --> 3615.38] because it was -[3615.38 --> 3616.38] the farthest place -[3616.38 --> 3617.06] from Jerusalem, -[3617.52 --> 3619.22] which we all today know -[3619.22 --> 3620.44] is not actually -[3620.44 --> 3621.26] the farthest place -[3621.26 --> 3621.78] from Jerusalem. -[3622.16 --> 3623.04] It's obviously -[3623.04 --> 3624.02] the Gambier Islands -[3624.02 --> 3625.00] and French Polynesia, -[3625.10 --> 3628.30] which is 11,591 kilometers away. -[3630.84 --> 3632.20] But for the OT people, -[3632.50 --> 3633.44] the Old Testament people, -[3633.64 --> 3634.84] Spain was the ends -[3634.84 --> 3635.32] of the earth. -[3636.16 --> 3636.42] Now, -[3636.76 --> 3637.68] we must ask, -[3638.14 --> 3639.32] why is that getting -[3639.32 --> 3640.32] to the ends of the earth -[3640.32 --> 3640.80] matters? -[3642.50 --> 3642.98] Now, -[3643.04 --> 3644.04] converting as many people -[3644.04 --> 3644.60] as possible -[3644.60 --> 3645.98] is the goal of our faith -[3645.98 --> 3647.72] and Christ's sacrifice. -[3648.28 --> 3649.32] But Paul would have, -[3649.68 --> 3650.34] could have also -[3650.34 --> 3651.06] gone to Europe -[3651.06 --> 3651.76] or Asia, -[3652.10 --> 3652.72] but no, -[3652.78 --> 3653.58] he went to Spain. -[3654.00 --> 3654.34] Why? -[3656.50 --> 3656.92] Well, -[3657.06 --> 3657.70] because God -[3657.70 --> 3658.78] commanded them to. -[3659.56 --> 3660.40] Simple as that. -[3661.06 --> 3662.30] The epistle to the Romans, -[3662.58 --> 3663.52] like most of the epistles, -[3663.60 --> 3664.46] was written by Paul -[3664.46 --> 3665.22] during the events -[3665.22 --> 3666.42] recorded in the book of Acts. -[3666.84 --> 3667.76] The book of Acts -[3667.76 --> 3668.82] records the explosion -[3668.82 --> 3669.38] of the church -[3669.38 --> 3670.16] out of Jerusalem -[3670.16 --> 3671.86] into the world at large. -[3672.22 --> 3673.52] But in chapter 1 of Acts, -[3673.62 --> 3674.70] we see Jesus -[3674.70 --> 3675.60] at his ascension -[3675.60 --> 3676.32] give the disciples -[3676.32 --> 3677.60] one final direction. -[3677.60 --> 3679.16] And it goes like this -[3679.16 --> 3679.80] in Acts 1, -[3679.92 --> 3681.30] verse 6 to 8. -[3681.94 --> 3682.96] Then they gathered around him -[3682.96 --> 3683.50] and asked him, -[3683.66 --> 3683.82] Lord, -[3684.20 --> 3685.28] are you at this time -[3685.28 --> 3685.96] going to restore -[3685.96 --> 3686.84] the kingdom of Israel? -[3687.32 --> 3688.06] He said to them, -[3688.12 --> 3688.70] it is not for you -[3688.70 --> 3689.52] to know the times -[3689.52 --> 3690.14] or the dates -[3690.14 --> 3690.94] the Father has set -[3690.94 --> 3691.82] by his own authority, -[3691.82 --> 3693.44] but you will receive power -[3693.44 --> 3694.24] when the Holy Spirit -[3694.24 --> 3694.90] comes to you -[3694.90 --> 3696.18] and you will be my witness -[3696.18 --> 3697.08] in Jerusalem, -[3697.58 --> 3698.24] in all Judea -[3698.24 --> 3698.88] and Samaria -[3698.88 --> 3700.08] and to the ends -[3700.08 --> 3700.90] of the earth. -[3701.66 --> 3702.38] To the ends -[3702.38 --> 3703.14] of the earth. -[3705.46 --> 3707.10] Paul sees his work -[3707.10 --> 3708.56] as with all of the disciples -[3708.56 --> 3710.16] as the command of Christ -[3710.16 --> 3711.28] to bring the name -[3711.28 --> 3712.24] of Jesus Christ -[3712.24 --> 3713.56] and the good news -[3713.56 --> 3714.38] to the ends -[3714.38 --> 3715.08] of the earth. -[3715.54 --> 3716.30] And for them -[3716.30 --> 3717.52] that meant Spain. -[3718.18 --> 3719.02] So Paul is doing -[3719.02 --> 3720.42] everything in his power -[3720.42 --> 3721.32] and the power -[3721.32 --> 3722.04] of the Holy Spirit -[3722.04 --> 3722.66] to get there -[3722.66 --> 3724.36] as fast as possible. -[3725.14 --> 3726.30] Willing to sacrifice -[3726.30 --> 3727.96] everything to do it. -[3728.62 --> 3729.20] And we see -[3729.20 --> 3729.56] at the end -[3729.56 --> 3730.26] of the book of Acts -[3730.26 --> 3731.28] that he does make it -[3731.28 --> 3731.68] to Rome. -[3731.88 --> 3733.10] That long-awaited meeting -[3733.10 --> 3734.30] of the Roman church -[3734.30 --> 3735.54] and Paul does happen. -[3736.08 --> 3736.62] And from there -[3736.62 --> 3738.26] he is only a short trip -[3738.26 --> 3739.38] from completing -[3739.38 --> 3740.92] the final call of Christ. -[3743.02 --> 3744.64] In between this letter -[3744.64 --> 3745.74] and him getting to Rome -[3745.74 --> 3746.74] he must first travel -[3746.74 --> 3747.40] to Jerusalem -[3747.40 --> 3749.06] to bring a deposit of money -[3749.06 --> 3750.18] from the Greek churches -[3750.18 --> 3751.40] to the poor -[3751.40 --> 3752.50] in the Jerusalem church. -[3753.06 --> 3753.84] And he asks -[3753.84 --> 3754.48] the Roman church -[3754.48 --> 3755.26] to support them -[3755.26 --> 3756.26] and this is what he says. -[3756.98 --> 3757.58] They were pleased -[3757.58 --> 3758.16] to do it -[3758.16 --> 3758.78] and indeed -[3758.78 --> 3760.08] they owe it to them. -[3760.08 --> 3761.54] For if the Gentiles -[3761.54 --> 3762.46] have shared in the Jews -[3762.46 --> 3763.34] spiritual blessings -[3763.34 --> 3764.94] they owe it to the Jews -[3764.94 --> 3765.80] to share with them -[3765.80 --> 3766.78] their material blessings. -[3767.72 --> 3768.60] Paul is saying -[3768.60 --> 3769.36] that since redemption -[3769.36 --> 3770.44] came from the Jews -[3770.44 --> 3771.56] to the Gentiles -[3771.56 --> 3772.78] that they ought to -[3772.78 --> 3774.16] materially support the church. -[3775.22 --> 3776.42] Now this passage -[3776.42 --> 3777.54] often gets misunderstood -[3777.54 --> 3778.90] as a way -[3778.90 --> 3779.66] to funnel money -[3779.66 --> 3780.66] to the state of Israel. -[3781.12 --> 3782.38] That Christians owe a debt -[3782.38 --> 3783.40] and should for the rest -[3783.40 --> 3783.88] of history -[3783.88 --> 3784.48] send money -[3784.48 --> 3785.78] for whatever government -[3785.78 --> 3787.02] runs Israel. -[3787.02 --> 3789.06] that simply -[3789.06 --> 3790.16] isn't the case. -[3791.02 --> 3792.08] There is nothing wrong -[3792.08 --> 3793.50] with helping other nations. -[3794.14 --> 3794.70] We should -[3794.70 --> 3796.54] but Paul is specifically -[3796.54 --> 3798.16] asking politely -[3798.16 --> 3799.30] that they help -[3799.30 --> 3800.68] support the poor -[3800.68 --> 3801.70] among the saints -[3801.70 --> 3802.42] in Jerusalem. -[3803.10 --> 3803.88] He is asking -[3803.88 --> 3804.88] that the church in Rome -[3804.88 --> 3805.88] which at this point -[3805.88 --> 3806.64] is both faithful -[3806.64 --> 3808.14] and monetarily doing well -[3808.14 --> 3809.30] to help the church -[3809.30 --> 3810.18] that is in Jerusalem -[3810.18 --> 3811.40] right now -[3811.40 --> 3812.60] and is being persecuted -[3812.60 --> 3813.94] by Paul's old friends -[3813.94 --> 3814.48] back home. -[3814.48 --> 3816.26] And Paul is saying -[3816.26 --> 3817.22] that because of the faith -[3817.22 --> 3818.24] you now have -[3818.24 --> 3819.58] is because of their -[3819.58 --> 3821.02] suffering and willingness -[3821.02 --> 3822.82] to endure the pain -[3822.82 --> 3823.52] of persecution -[3823.52 --> 3825.34] and you should help them -[3825.34 --> 3826.58] from your safe harbor -[3826.58 --> 3827.50] so far away -[3827.50 --> 3829.16] in any way you can. -[3830.10 --> 3831.24] The big idea -[3831.24 --> 3832.22] is shown here. -[3832.76 --> 3833.86] He calls these Christians -[3833.86 --> 3834.84] to sacrifice -[3834.84 --> 3837.14] to give everything. -[3839.78 --> 3841.08] So what I'm really saying -[3841.08 --> 3841.96] is that next year -[3841.96 --> 3843.50] when the Mexico team -[3843.50 --> 3844.22] is fundraising -[3844.22 --> 3845.02] for money -[3845.02 --> 3846.46] we all need to empty -[3846.46 --> 3847.16] our bank accounts -[3847.16 --> 3847.94] and give it to Brandon. -[3850.54 --> 3851.82] I say that in jest. -[3852.48 --> 3852.96] To be frank -[3852.96 --> 3853.66] I believe that -[3853.66 --> 3854.60] if Paul saw -[3854.60 --> 3855.32] the sacrifices -[3855.32 --> 3856.12] many of the members -[3856.12 --> 3856.94] of this church made -[3856.94 --> 3858.52] he would be commending you -[3858.52 --> 3859.20] all the same way -[3859.20 --> 3860.06] he does the Romans. -[3862.64 --> 3864.50] Paul specifically calls -[3864.50 --> 3865.50] for prayer -[3865.50 --> 3867.34] in the next verse -[3867.34 --> 3868.32] in verse 30. -[3868.46 --> 3869.22] I urge you -[3869.22 --> 3870.14] brothers and sisters -[3870.14 --> 3872.16] by the Lord Jesus Christ -[3872.16 --> 3873.30] and by the love -[3873.30 --> 3874.10] of the Holy Spirit -[3874.10 --> 3875.52] to join me -[3875.52 --> 3876.32] in the struggle -[3876.32 --> 3877.14] of praying -[3877.14 --> 3879.60] to God for me. -[3880.18 --> 3881.12] Paul is asking -[3881.12 --> 3881.76] for prayer -[3881.76 --> 3882.98] that he safely -[3882.98 --> 3883.62] makes it -[3883.62 --> 3884.14] with the money -[3884.14 --> 3884.86] to the church -[3884.86 --> 3886.74] and that his old friends -[3886.74 --> 3887.74] and the Judeans -[3887.74 --> 3888.62] that have been trying -[3888.62 --> 3889.20] to get him -[3889.20 --> 3890.02] are thwarted. -[3890.68 --> 3891.26] And if we read -[3891.26 --> 3891.88] the book of Acts -[3891.88 --> 3892.82] we see that yes -[3892.82 --> 3894.10] he does make it -[3894.10 --> 3894.64] with the money. -[3895.34 --> 3895.76] Does he make -[3895.76 --> 3896.96] he makes it back -[3896.96 --> 3897.46] to Jerusalem? -[3897.60 --> 3898.58] Does he make it safely? -[3899.14 --> 3899.52] No. -[3901.12 --> 3902.12] But that's besides -[3902.12 --> 3902.64] the point. -[3903.24 --> 3903.96] Was there a failed -[3903.96 --> 3905.00] assassination attempt -[3905.00 --> 3905.64] a shipwreck -[3905.64 --> 3906.52] a couple of near-death -[3906.52 --> 3907.00] beatings -[3907.00 --> 3907.78] and multiple groups -[3907.78 --> 3908.20] of people? -[3908.60 --> 3909.36] Some brush-ups -[3909.36 --> 3909.98] with some snakes -[3909.98 --> 3910.44] on the way? -[3910.98 --> 3911.38] Yes. -[3911.70 --> 3912.56] But the upside -[3912.56 --> 3913.86] was the travel cost -[3913.86 --> 3914.68] to Rome was zero -[3914.68 --> 3915.28] on the account -[3915.28 --> 3916.18] of him being a prisoner -[3916.18 --> 3917.08] on a slave ship. -[3917.08 --> 3922.42] Just like these events -[3922.42 --> 3923.20] were extraordinary -[3923.20 --> 3924.92] so is Paul's call -[3924.92 --> 3925.52] for prayer -[3925.52 --> 3926.54] in this passage. -[3927.08 --> 3928.20] He does not just -[3928.20 --> 3929.20] ask for prayer. -[3929.86 --> 3930.52] He says that -[3930.52 --> 3931.72] by the Lord Jesus Christ -[3931.72 --> 3932.40] and by the love -[3932.40 --> 3933.16] of the Holy Spirit -[3933.16 --> 3935.02] join me in the struggle -[3935.02 --> 3936.64] by praying to God -[3936.64 --> 3937.06] for me. -[3937.66 --> 3938.64] Paul uses a word -[3938.64 --> 3939.02] for prayer -[3939.02 --> 3939.68] in this passage -[3939.68 --> 3940.56] that is not used -[3940.56 --> 3941.46] anywhere else -[3941.46 --> 3942.46] in the New Testament. -[3943.62 --> 3944.70] This word is related -[3944.70 --> 3945.70] to wrestling terms -[3945.70 --> 3946.30] in Greek. -[3946.30 --> 3948.28] It expresses ideas -[3948.28 --> 3949.28] like energetic -[3949.28 --> 3950.48] diligence -[3950.48 --> 3951.60] earnestness. -[3952.14 --> 3952.72] He does not just -[3952.72 --> 3953.70] ask us to pray -[3953.70 --> 3954.44] what we think -[3954.44 --> 3955.62] or when we think -[3955.62 --> 3956.24] about praying -[3956.24 --> 3957.78] or practice prayer -[3957.78 --> 3958.58] but he asks us -[3958.58 --> 3959.40] to practice prayer -[3959.40 --> 3960.42] like a martial artist -[3960.42 --> 3962.42] practicing his technique -[3962.42 --> 3964.18] with the same focus -[3964.18 --> 3964.96] and time spent -[3964.96 --> 3965.40] on training -[3965.40 --> 3966.20] for a big fight. -[3966.86 --> 3967.38] He's asking -[3967.38 --> 3968.34] for the Church of Rome -[3968.34 --> 3969.52] to be his corner men -[3969.52 --> 3970.92] in the boxing match -[3970.92 --> 3971.80] against the forces -[3971.80 --> 3972.34] of evil -[3972.34 --> 3974.74] which are fighting -[3974.74 --> 3976.00] to oppose the church. -[3976.30 --> 3977.64] And what you see -[3977.64 --> 3978.36] in the book of Acts -[3978.36 --> 3979.50] is that every authority -[3979.50 --> 3980.56] every human -[3980.56 --> 3981.88] and even the earth -[3981.88 --> 3983.44] tries to stop Paul -[3983.44 --> 3984.22] from making it -[3984.22 --> 3984.82] to Jerusalem. -[3985.92 --> 3987.28] And yet because -[3987.28 --> 3988.82] of Jesus Christ -[3988.82 --> 3990.42] the Holy Spirit -[3990.42 --> 3991.34] and the prayers -[3991.34 --> 3991.92] of the saints -[3991.92 --> 3992.48] in Rome -[3992.48 --> 3993.72] he makes it. -[3995.08 --> 3996.50] You and I -[3996.50 --> 3997.02] are called -[3997.02 --> 3998.08] to pray like this. -[3998.70 --> 4000.00] God invites us -[4000.00 --> 4001.24] to pray like this. -[4001.44 --> 4002.54] Just like he invited -[4002.54 --> 4003.32] Jacob to wrestle -[4003.32 --> 4004.24] with him all night -[4004.24 --> 4005.00] until dawn -[4005.00 --> 4006.10] when the blessing came. -[4006.50 --> 4008.80] So that he calls us -[4008.80 --> 4009.26] to pray -[4009.26 --> 4010.66] with that same type -[4010.66 --> 4011.16] of fervor. -[4011.54 --> 4012.42] The same type -[4012.42 --> 4012.96] of intensity. -[4013.44 --> 4014.24] Just like Jacob -[4014.24 --> 4015.10] wrestled with God -[4015.10 --> 4016.58] and asked for blessing. -[4017.12 --> 4018.04] God is asking us -[4018.04 --> 4019.00] to stay up all night -[4019.00 --> 4019.48] with him -[4019.48 --> 4020.98] and ask him -[4020.98 --> 4021.60] for blessing. -[4022.26 --> 4023.28] God is calling us -[4023.28 --> 4024.54] to ask the impossible, -[4025.08 --> 4025.88] the miraculous, -[4026.34 --> 4027.06] the incredible. -[4027.86 --> 4028.76] You want to see -[4028.76 --> 4029.70] the lame walk? -[4030.14 --> 4030.92] You want to see -[4030.92 --> 4031.82] the blind see? -[4032.60 --> 4033.26] You want to see -[4033.26 --> 4034.42] starvation end? -[4034.94 --> 4035.64] Do you want to see -[4035.64 --> 4036.54] the gifts of the Spirit? -[4037.12 --> 4037.76] Do you want to see -[4037.76 --> 4039.04] nations have peace? -[4039.48 --> 4040.26] Do you want to see -[4040.26 --> 4041.28] people believe? -[4042.14 --> 4042.96] Then pray -[4042.96 --> 4044.04] like a warrior -[4044.04 --> 4045.18] to the one -[4045.18 --> 4046.04] who makes men -[4046.04 --> 4047.14] walk and see. -[4047.48 --> 4048.14] To the one -[4048.14 --> 4048.96] who provides -[4048.96 --> 4049.74] both food -[4049.74 --> 4050.78] and spirit. -[4051.50 --> 4052.56] Pray to the King -[4052.56 --> 4053.88] who brings peace -[4053.88 --> 4055.60] and gives faith. -[4055.60 --> 4060.90] I joked earlier -[4060.90 --> 4062.00] about the Mexico -[4062.00 --> 4062.72] missions team -[4062.72 --> 4064.10] but as far as -[4064.10 --> 4064.72] how this passage -[4064.72 --> 4065.44] relates to us, -[4065.80 --> 4066.76] the Mexico missions team -[4066.76 --> 4067.48] is one example -[4067.48 --> 4068.24] of how this -[4068.24 --> 4069.90] relates to our church, -[4070.04 --> 4070.74] this context. -[4071.48 --> 4073.02] We send our missionaries -[4073.02 --> 4074.04] not like Paul -[4074.04 --> 4074.54] who was building -[4074.54 --> 4074.92] a foundation -[4074.92 --> 4075.78] where none have gone -[4075.78 --> 4077.54] but we every time -[4077.54 --> 4078.36] we go are building -[4078.36 --> 4078.98] on the foundation -[4078.98 --> 4079.64] that has been laid -[4079.64 --> 4080.36] the year before. -[4081.98 --> 4082.88] And when we send -[4082.88 --> 4083.50] out our teams -[4083.50 --> 4084.54] with a commissioning prayer -[4084.54 --> 4085.68] and the members -[4085.68 --> 4086.26] of our church -[4086.26 --> 4087.50] pray over that week -[4087.50 --> 4087.86] or two -[4087.86 --> 4088.58] that they are gone -[4088.58 --> 4090.24] but in the face -[4090.24 --> 4090.62] of missions -[4090.62 --> 4091.44] Paul is asking us -[4091.44 --> 4092.46] not to just pray -[4092.46 --> 4093.76] any old prayers -[4093.76 --> 4095.06] but to be their -[4095.06 --> 4095.72] corner men -[4095.72 --> 4096.48] in the fight. -[4097.06 --> 4098.14] He asks the church -[4098.14 --> 4098.56] of Rome -[4098.56 --> 4099.94] to strive together -[4099.94 --> 4100.36] with him. -[4100.94 --> 4101.76] We need to sacrifice -[4101.76 --> 4103.68] together in earnest -[4103.68 --> 4104.56] and energetic -[4104.56 --> 4106.16] diligent prayer -[4106.16 --> 4106.94] for each other. -[4107.30 --> 4108.22] For our team -[4108.22 --> 4108.96] that goes and does -[4108.96 --> 4109.90] the work of the Holy Spirit -[4109.90 --> 4111.22] just as the Roman church -[4111.22 --> 4111.98] prayed and provided -[4111.98 --> 4112.46] for the saints -[4112.46 --> 4113.00] in Jerusalem. -[4113.00 --> 4114.76] So too does -[4114.76 --> 4115.64] the church of Langley -[4115.64 --> 4116.58] need to pray -[4116.58 --> 4117.12] for the church -[4117.12 --> 4117.68] of Tijuana. -[4118.72 --> 4119.48] Like the church -[4119.48 --> 4119.88] of Rome -[4119.88 --> 4120.68] we are called -[4120.68 --> 4121.62] to sacrifice -[4121.62 --> 4122.94] everything. -[4125.08 --> 4125.72] But there are -[4125.72 --> 4126.24] more avenues -[4126.24 --> 4126.96] for us to obey -[4126.96 --> 4127.34] God -[4127.34 --> 4128.78] in this -[4128.78 --> 4129.38] to provide -[4129.38 --> 4129.98] and pray. -[4131.18 --> 4131.58] The people -[4131.58 --> 4132.34] that come to my mind -[4132.34 --> 4133.26] when I think of missions -[4133.26 --> 4134.84] in relation to this church -[4134.84 --> 4135.96] are Jody and Uriel -[4135.96 --> 4137.98] and their men's -[4137.98 --> 4139.02] rehab ministry. -[4139.46 --> 4140.40] Abilino and Maria -[4140.40 --> 4141.36] in East Tijuana. -[4142.00 --> 4142.96] Tim and Charity Johnson -[4142.96 --> 4143.64] with name -[4143.64 --> 4144.50] Gary Rusma -[4144.50 --> 4145.38] with seafarers -[4145.38 --> 4146.44] and Todd Statham -[4146.44 --> 4147.48] doing campus ministries -[4147.48 --> 4148.08] in Okanagan. -[4148.94 --> 4149.60] These people -[4149.60 --> 4150.04] have answered -[4150.04 --> 4150.68] the call of God -[4150.68 --> 4152.04] to go and sacrifice -[4152.04 --> 4152.80] everything -[4152.80 --> 4154.12] for the sake of ministry -[4154.12 --> 4155.08] out there -[4155.08 --> 4156.10] where we are not. -[4156.48 --> 4156.98] And that means -[4156.98 --> 4158.40] that they don't always -[4158.40 --> 4159.12] have the resources -[4159.12 --> 4159.62] we do -[4159.62 --> 4161.84] when we do ministry. -[4162.18 --> 4163.12] And so we are called -[4163.12 --> 4163.78] to sacrifice -[4163.78 --> 4164.44] everything -[4164.44 --> 4165.38] for their sake -[4165.38 --> 4166.56] as they sacrifice -[4166.56 --> 4167.26] everything -[4167.26 --> 4167.88] for the ones -[4167.88 --> 4168.74] they are reaching to. -[4169.60 --> 4170.44] We are called -[4170.44 --> 4171.10] to pray -[4171.10 --> 4171.96] without ceasing -[4171.96 --> 4173.18] with dedication -[4173.18 --> 4174.18] energetically -[4174.18 --> 4175.12] and diligently -[4175.12 --> 4178.68] for their sake -[4178.68 --> 4179.50] as they are -[4179.50 --> 4179.94] the hands -[4179.94 --> 4180.42] and feet -[4180.42 --> 4180.92] of Christ -[4180.92 --> 4181.62] out there. -[4182.68 --> 4183.36] But we are not -[4183.36 --> 4183.72] just called -[4183.72 --> 4184.28] to pray -[4184.28 --> 4184.90] and sacrifice -[4184.90 --> 4185.54] in this way -[4185.54 --> 4186.14] for our own -[4186.14 --> 4186.78] missions teams -[4186.78 --> 4187.82] but for the work -[4187.82 --> 4188.22] that missions -[4188.22 --> 4188.56] are doing -[4188.56 --> 4189.36] throughout the world. -[4189.92 --> 4191.06] We are to join -[4191.06 --> 4191.56] with them -[4191.56 --> 4192.88] from our safe harbors -[4192.88 --> 4193.76] so far away -[4193.76 --> 4195.20] any way we can -[4195.20 --> 4196.10] material -[4196.10 --> 4196.96] and prayer. -[4196.96 --> 4198.42] And so we help -[4198.42 --> 4198.88] people -[4198.88 --> 4199.72] missionaries -[4199.72 --> 4201.06] through our tithe -[4201.06 --> 4201.98] and in other times -[4201.98 --> 4202.48] and places -[4202.48 --> 4204.00] we pray for the church -[4204.00 --> 4204.52] in China -[4204.52 --> 4205.86] and in Russia -[4205.86 --> 4207.16] and in the Middle East -[4207.16 --> 4207.70] who are faced -[4207.70 --> 4208.28] persecution. -[4211.08 --> 4211.56] However -[4211.56 --> 4212.40] to think -[4212.40 --> 4212.96] that there are -[4212.96 --> 4213.40] two types -[4213.40 --> 4213.96] of Christians -[4213.96 --> 4215.10] those who provide -[4215.10 --> 4215.52] and pray -[4215.52 --> 4216.24] and those who do -[4216.24 --> 4216.62] the work -[4216.62 --> 4217.38] is not accurate. -[4218.24 --> 4218.50] Yes -[4218.50 --> 4219.32] they are the hands -[4219.32 --> 4220.12] and feet of Christ -[4220.12 --> 4220.76] over there -[4220.76 --> 4222.40] but we are the hands -[4222.40 --> 4223.12] and feet of Christ -[4223.12 --> 4223.62] here -[4223.62 --> 4225.66] and they are -[4225.66 --> 4226.44] equally called -[4226.44 --> 4227.44] to pray for us. -[4227.98 --> 4228.52] Paul would have -[4228.52 --> 4229.10] been praying -[4229.10 --> 4229.86] earnestly -[4229.86 --> 4231.16] for the Roman church. -[4232.14 --> 4233.14] We are evidence -[4233.14 --> 4235.36] we have evidence -[4235.36 --> 4236.32] of that work -[4236.32 --> 4237.28] done here. -[4237.72 --> 4238.86] Our volunteer work -[4238.86 --> 4240.08] in Night Shift -[4240.08 --> 4240.72] Ministry -[4240.72 --> 4241.62] Gateway of Hope -[4241.62 --> 4242.34] Food Bank -[4242.34 --> 4243.68] the way our deacons -[4243.68 --> 4244.22] and elders -[4244.22 --> 4245.46] serve this community -[4245.46 --> 4247.22] the youth ministry -[4247.22 --> 4248.50] does volunteer work -[4248.50 --> 4249.30] as events -[4249.30 --> 4250.18] we support -[4250.18 --> 4251.18] our local community -[4251.18 --> 4252.02] the cadets -[4252.02 --> 4252.64] and the gems -[4252.64 --> 4253.60] do missions works -[4253.60 --> 4254.16] sometimes -[4254.16 --> 4255.12] as events. -[4255.90 --> 4256.52] Never mind -[4256.52 --> 4257.76] all of the unspoken -[4257.76 --> 4258.70] personal ways -[4258.70 --> 4259.10] the members -[4259.10 --> 4260.08] of this congregation -[4260.08 --> 4261.26] are affecting -[4261.26 --> 4262.40] Langley and Surrey -[4262.40 --> 4263.18] and Abbotsford. -[4263.80 --> 4264.90] All this work -[4264.90 --> 4265.86] requires us -[4265.86 --> 4267.10] to sacrifice -[4267.10 --> 4268.38] to sacrifice -[4268.38 --> 4269.20] everything. -[4270.24 --> 4271.38] We need -[4271.38 --> 4272.00] to be praying -[4272.00 --> 4272.64] for each other -[4272.64 --> 4273.88] here the same way -[4273.88 --> 4275.40] this church prays -[4275.40 --> 4276.14] for the Christians -[4276.14 --> 4276.78] out there. -[4279.02 --> 4280.12] The life -[4280.12 --> 4281.16] of a Christian -[4281.16 --> 4282.70] means two things. -[4283.60 --> 4285.36] The life -[4285.36 --> 4285.84] of a Christian -[4285.84 --> 4286.70] requires sacrifice -[4286.70 --> 4287.80] means two things. -[4289.12 --> 4289.60] First -[4289.60 --> 4290.28] the life -[4290.28 --> 4290.70] of a Christian -[4290.70 --> 4291.92] requires the sacrifice -[4291.92 --> 4292.90] we do -[4292.90 --> 4293.92] and -[4293.92 --> 4294.66] the life -[4294.66 --> 4295.14] of a Christian -[4295.14 --> 4296.30] requires sacrifice. -[4297.38 --> 4298.72] We sacrifice -[4298.72 --> 4299.48] everything -[4299.48 --> 4300.64] because he -[4300.64 --> 4301.24] sacrificed -[4301.24 --> 4301.90] everything. -[4302.90 --> 4303.60] Jesus Christ -[4303.60 --> 4304.44] the son of God -[4304.44 --> 4305.72] sacrificed glory -[4305.72 --> 4306.84] and power -[4306.84 --> 4308.26] and his very life -[4308.26 --> 4309.50] so that you -[4309.50 --> 4310.24] and I -[4310.24 --> 4311.50] his enemies -[4311.50 --> 4312.76] the ones -[4312.76 --> 4313.78] who betrayed him -[4313.78 --> 4314.84] could have -[4314.84 --> 4315.68] everything -[4315.68 --> 4317.06] could have him. -[4318.18 --> 4319.36] We don't -[4319.36 --> 4320.20] deserve this. -[4320.68 --> 4321.14] We deserve -[4321.14 --> 4322.02] nothing but -[4322.02 --> 4322.80] dust. -[4323.50 --> 4324.42] But no -[4324.42 --> 4326.40] we get him -[4326.40 --> 4327.52] and because -[4327.52 --> 4328.30] we have him -[4328.30 --> 4329.10] who is more -[4329.10 --> 4329.82] valuable than -[4329.82 --> 4330.40] the heavens -[4330.40 --> 4331.56] and the earth -[4331.56 --> 4332.88] let us -[4332.88 --> 4334.00] leave this place -[4334.00 --> 4334.46] willing -[4334.46 --> 4335.66] in gratitude -[4335.66 --> 4337.02] to sacrifice -[4337.02 --> 4338.46] everything. -[4343.90 --> 4344.78] Let's pray. -[4348.16 --> 4349.08] Dear Lord -[4349.08 --> 4350.82] I pray -[4350.82 --> 4351.38] that this -[4351.38 --> 4351.88] truth -[4351.88 --> 4352.64] that this -[4352.64 --> 4353.72] this call -[4353.72 --> 4354.90] to sacrifice -[4354.90 --> 4355.26] Lord -[4355.26 --> 4357.06] as living -[4357.06 --> 4357.80] sacrifices -[4357.80 --> 4358.30] I pray -[4358.30 --> 4358.54] Lord -[4358.54 --> 4358.90] that we -[4358.90 --> 4359.24] would -[4359.24 --> 4360.42] that we -[4360.42 --> 4360.94] would do it -[4360.94 --> 4361.12] that we -[4361.12 --> 4361.58] would answer -[4361.58 --> 4362.16] your call -[4362.16 --> 4363.46] the sinners -[4363.46 --> 4363.78] that we -[4363.78 --> 4364.24] are Lord -[4364.24 --> 4364.60] I pray -[4364.60 --> 4364.88] that with -[4364.88 --> 4366.20] the Lord -[4366.20 --> 4366.86] Jesus Christ -[4366.86 --> 4367.36] and the power -[4367.36 --> 4367.74] of the Holy -[4367.74 --> 4368.36] Spirit Lord -[4368.36 --> 4368.66] that we -[4368.66 --> 4369.36] would pray -[4369.36 --> 4371.00] that your -[4371.00 --> 4371.54] work would be -[4371.54 --> 4371.98] accomplished -[4371.98 --> 4372.70] that the -[4372.70 --> 4373.14] miraculous -[4373.14 --> 4373.62] would be -[4373.62 --> 4373.94] done -[4373.94 --> 4375.92] in Jesus -[4375.92 --> 4376.24] name I -[4376.24 --> 4376.42] pray -[4376.42 --> 4376.58] Amen -[4376.58 --> 4377.30] Amen -[4377.30 --> 4378.22] Amen -[4378.22 --> 4388.70] A -[4388.70 --> 4389.96] key -[4389.96 --> 4392.62] in -[4392.62 --> 4393.60] amen -[4393.60 --> 4397.40] time -[4397.40 --> 4398.24] to -[4398.24 --> 4398.78] Paul -[4398.78 --> 4401.94] haha -[4401.94 --> 4403.74] Anne -[4403.74 --> 4404.14] to -[4404.14 --> 4429.92] Hear my prayer, O Lord -[4429.92 --> 4436.28] From the ends of the earth I cry -[4436.28 --> 4442.20] Your peace will lead me to -[4442.20 --> 4447.78] The rock that is higher than I -[4447.78 --> 4458.32] Hear my prayer, O Lord -[4458.32 --> 4464.32] From the ends of the earth I cry -[4464.92 --> 4470.72] Your peace will lead me to -[4470.72 --> 4476.32] The rock that is higher than I -[4476.32 --> 4484.72] For you have been my strength in times of trouble -[4484.72 --> 4490.32] A tower above all my enemies -[4490.32 --> 4496.32] And Lord, I will abide with you forever -[4496.32 --> 4502.32] In the shelter of your wings -[4503.28 --> 4509.32] For you have been my strength in times of trouble -[4509.32 --> 4515.32] A tower above all my enemies -[4515.32 --> 4521.32] And Lord, I will abide with you forever -[4521.32 --> 4527.32] In the shelter of your wings -[4527.32 --> 4539.32] Hear my prayer, O Lord -[4539.32 --> 4545.32] From the ends of the earth I cry -[4545.92 --> 4551.32] Your peace will lead me to -[4551.32 --> 4557.32] The rock that is higher than I -[4557.32 --> 4564.32] The rock that is higher than I -[4564.32 --> 4568.08] And let you be singing -[4568.08 --> 4580.96] Even as God calls us to great sacrifice -[4580.96 --> 4584.48] in response to the greatest sacrifice -[4584.48 --> 4586.42] that he has made in the Lord Jesus -[4586.42 --> 4590.90] He promises to equip us for our lives of faith -[4590.90 --> 4592.02] And sacrifice -[4592.02 --> 4594.80] And part of the way he does that -[4594.80 --> 4597.90] Is not only through the regular hearing -[4597.90 --> 4599.54] And proclaiming of his word -[4599.54 --> 4602.22] But that grace that is offered in the word -[4602.22 --> 4604.30] Is now offered at the table -[4604.30 --> 4606.28] So that we might come together -[4606.28 --> 4608.96] And taste and see that the Lord is good -[4608.96 --> 4611.00] As we come to the table -[4611.00 --> 4613.46] We have opportunity to do so -[4613.46 --> 4614.74] With some liturgy -[4614.74 --> 4616.92] That you are invited to speak as well -[4616.92 --> 4618.34] And so you can follow behind -[4618.34 --> 4620.86] Follow along on the screen behind -[4620.86 --> 4622.00] And speak those parts -[4622.00 --> 4623.50] That are indicated for you -[4623.50 --> 4625.50] Lift up your hearts -[4625.50 --> 4628.08] We lift the heart to the Lord -[4628.08 --> 4631.62] Let us give thanks to the Lord our God -[4631.62 --> 4634.64] It is right for us to give thanks -[4634.64 --> 4636.44] Let's pray together -[4636.44 --> 4640.22] Holy God -[4640.22 --> 4643.00] You raised up Christ -[4643.00 --> 4645.32] To rule over all creation -[4645.32 --> 4650.56] Giving him the name that is above every name -[4650.56 --> 4652.82] That at the name of Jesus -[4652.82 --> 4654.16] Every knee shall bow -[4654.16 --> 4656.60] And so we praise you -[4656.60 --> 4659.40] That lifted in power -[4659.40 --> 4662.36] He lives and reigns forever -[4662.36 --> 4663.42] In your glory -[4663.42 --> 4665.70] And so fulfills his promise -[4665.70 --> 4667.92] To be with us always -[4667.92 --> 4669.84] To the end of time -[4669.84 --> 4672.02] And to the end of the world -[4672.02 --> 4674.54] In Jesus name we pray -[4674.54 --> 4675.68] Amen -[4675.68 --> 4679.20] Now our Lord Jesus -[4679.20 --> 4681.60] Before he suffered and died -[4681.60 --> 4684.40] Gave us this memorial of his sacrifice -[4685.08 --> 4686.52] Until he comes again -[4686.52 --> 4688.48] And the Lord Jesus -[4688.48 --> 4690.78] On the night that he was betrayed -[4690.78 --> 4691.72] Took bread -[4691.72 --> 4694.56] And when he had given thanks -[4694.56 --> 4695.86] He broke it and said -[4695.86 --> 4697.84] This is my body -[4697.84 --> 4698.92] Which is for you -[4698.92 --> 4702.08] Do this in remembrance of me -[4702.08 --> 4709.58] In the same way -[4709.58 --> 4711.12] After supper -[4711.12 --> 4712.30] He took the cup -[4712.30 --> 4712.98] Saying -[4712.98 --> 4715.14] This cup is the new covenant -[4715.14 --> 4716.36] In my blood -[4716.36 --> 4718.24] Do this whenever you drink it -[4718.24 --> 4720.12] In remembrance of me -[4720.12 --> 4722.74] For whenever you eat this bread -[4722.74 --> 4724.36] And drink this cup -[4724.36 --> 4726.18] You proclaim the Lord's death -[4726.18 --> 4728.30] Until he comes again -[4728.30 --> 4742.36] And so we share -[4742.36 --> 4743.74] In the mystery -[4743.74 --> 4745.84] Of our faith -[4745.84 --> 4747.70] Your death -[4747.70 --> 4748.66] O Christ -[4748.66 --> 4749.56] We proclaim -[4749.56 --> 4751.32] Your resurrection -[4751.32 --> 4752.28] We affirm -[4752.28 --> 4752.94] With joy -[4752.94 --> 4754.46] Your coming -[4754.46 --> 4755.28] We awaited -[4755.28 --> 4755.78] With hope -[4755.78 --> 4757.86] Glory be to you -[4757.86 --> 4758.78] Lord Jesus -[4758.78 --> 4761.28] Church family -[4761.28 --> 4762.46] The Lord has -[4762.46 --> 4764.02] Prepared his table -[4764.02 --> 4765.38] For all who love him -[4765.38 --> 4767.22] For all who trust in him -[4767.22 --> 4769.00] Alone for their salvation -[4769.00 --> 4770.14] And so -[4770.14 --> 4771.90] Come to this table -[4771.90 --> 4773.78] You who have much faith -[4773.78 --> 4775.28] And you who would like -[4775.28 --> 4775.90] To have more -[4775.90 --> 4778.20] Come to this table -[4778.20 --> 4779.16] You who have been -[4779.16 --> 4780.36] To the sacrament often -[4780.36 --> 4782.04] And you who have not been -[4782.04 --> 4783.08] For a long time -[4783.08 --> 4784.98] Come to this table -[4784.98 --> 4786.06] You who have tried -[4786.06 --> 4786.96] To follow Jesus -[4786.96 --> 4789.26] And you who have failed -[4789.26 --> 4791.52] Come to this table -[4791.52 --> 4793.36] Because Jesus Christ -[4793.36 --> 4796.42] Is our resurrected king -[4796.42 --> 4798.30] And he invites you -[4798.30 --> 4799.46] To come -[4799.46 --> 4801.92] Come to this table -[4801.92 --> 4803.18] If you are here with us -[4803.18 --> 4805.10] Or if you are joining us online -[4805.10 --> 4806.10] And at home -[4806.10 --> 4807.68] Come because it is Christ -[4807.68 --> 4808.84] Who invites us -[4808.84 --> 4810.30] To meet him -[4810.30 --> 4811.40] Here -[4811.40 --> 4813.52] The gifts of God -[4813.52 --> 4814.80] For the people -[4814.80 --> 4815.94] Of God -[4815.94 --> 4819.08] As we come to this table -[4819.08 --> 4821.04] We do so here -[4821.04 --> 4821.60] At Emmanuel -[4821.60 --> 4823.32] In a very particular way -[4823.32 --> 4824.76] And so we are going to -[4824.76 --> 4825.26] Come up -[4825.26 --> 4826.22] In groups -[4826.22 --> 4827.26] We will have ushers -[4827.26 --> 4828.24] Indicating when -[4828.24 --> 4828.96] It is your time -[4828.96 --> 4829.78] To come to the front -[4829.78 --> 4830.42] We will gather -[4830.42 --> 4831.54] In a circle together -[4831.54 --> 4832.62] Around the table -[4832.62 --> 4834.28] And we will pass -[4834.28 --> 4835.24] The elements -[4835.24 --> 4836.62] To your left -[4836.62 --> 4837.34] Or to your right -[4837.34 --> 4838.06] Depending on where -[4838.06 --> 4838.74] You are standing -[4838.74 --> 4840.08] And as you pass -[4840.08 --> 4840.74] The elements -[4840.74 --> 4841.34] Of the bread -[4841.34 --> 4841.90] For instance -[4841.90 --> 4843.00] We invite you to say -[4843.00 --> 4844.40] The body of Christ -[4844.40 --> 4845.32] Given for you -[4845.32 --> 4846.76] And as you pass -[4846.76 --> 4847.28] The juice -[4847.28 --> 4848.28] We invite you to say -[4848.28 --> 4849.52] The blood of Christ -[4849.52 --> 4850.80] Shed for you -[4850.80 --> 4852.66] When we come to this table -[4852.66 --> 4853.46] We are going to start -[4853.46 --> 4854.98] With the worship volunteers -[4854.98 --> 4856.36] Who are helping facilitate -[4856.36 --> 4857.16] Our service -[4857.16 --> 4858.62] And then the ushers -[4858.62 --> 4860.64] Will move back -[4860.64 --> 4861.68] Throughout the space -[4861.68 --> 4862.22] As we go -[4862.22 --> 4863.46] If you are unable -[4863.46 --> 4864.44] To come to the front -[4864.44 --> 4865.32] But would like to -[4865.32 --> 4866.16] Be served -[4866.16 --> 4867.28] Please indicate that -[4867.28 --> 4868.60] To the ushers -[4868.60 --> 4869.08] Out there -[4869.08 --> 4870.06] And they will meet you -[4870.06 --> 4871.04] At your seats -[4871.04 --> 4872.64] And serve you there -[4872.64 --> 4874.40] Let's gather -[4874.40 --> 4875.88] At the Lord's table together -[4897.28 --> 4898.50] With the house -[4898.50 --> 4899.30] To the house -[4899.30 --> 4900.08] And make no Brooks -[4900.08 --> 4900.30] See you -[4900.30 --> 4900.56] One close -[4900.56 --> 4901.36] あります -[4901.36 --> 4902.34] Of the eshers -[4902.36 --> 4903.14] Of the hospital -[4903.14 --> 4903.64] Through Jesus -[4903.64 --> 4904.06] Detail -[4904.06 --> 4904.14] The people -[4904.14 --> 4905.00] And the people -[4905.00 --> 4905.62] Are -[4905.62 --> 4906.18] Before -[4906.24 --> 4906.64] Because -[4906.64 --> 4907.10] As a -[4907.10 --> 4907.76] 意思 -[4907.76 --> 4908.20] And when -[4908.20 --> 4909.00] Who are -[4909.00 --> 4910.40] newest -[4910.40 --> 4911.04] Who a -[4911.04 --> 4911.96] Cap -[4911.96 --> 4913.02] It will have -[4913.02 --> 4913.04] To -[4913.26 --> 4913.64] Are -[4913.64 --> 4913.92] Chaos -[4914.12 --> 4914.90] こと -[4914.90 --> 4915.34] Anybody -[4915.34 --> 4916.60] чего -[4916.60 --> 4916.68] Matter -[4916.74 --> 4917.64] Who -[4917.64 --> 4918.64] At -[4918.64 --> 4919.26] How -[4919.26 --> 4919.64] What -[4919.64 --> 4921.66] You -[4921.66 --> 4921.86] Six -[4921.86 --> 4923.02] Right -[4923.02 --> 4924.08] if -[4924.08 --> 4924.72] Little -[4924.74 --> 4925.36] Sca -[4925.36 --> 4925.82] Too -[4925.82 --> 4926.74] каче -[4926.74 --> 4956.72] Thank you. -[4956.74 --> 4986.72] Thank you. -[4986.74 --> 5016.72] Thank you. -[5016.74 --> 5046.72] Thank you. -[5046.74 --> 5076.72] Thank you. -[5076.74 --> 5092.74] Lord, let your light, light of your face shine on us. -[5092.74 --> 5122.74] -[5122.74 --> 5128.74] Find our way in the darkest night. -[5128.74 --> 5135.74] Let your light shine on us. -[5135.74 --> 5154.74] Lord, let your grace, grace from your hand, fall on us. -[5154.74 --> 5184.74] -[5184.74 --> 5196.74] Let your grace, let your grace, let your grace fall on us. -[5196.74 --> 5226.74] -[5226.74 --> 5228.90] us -[5228.90 --> 5231.06] that we -[5231.06 --> 5234.82] may be safe -[5235.94 --> 5238.34] that we -[5238.34 --> 5240.76] may have -[5240.76 --> 5242.44] life -[5242.44 --> 5244.82] to find our way -[5245.88 --> 5246.76] in the -[5246.76 --> 5248.82] darkest night -[5249.64 --> 5250.98] let your -[5250.98 --> 5252.08] love -[5252.08 --> 5254.82] come over -[5254.82 --> 5256.66] us -[5256.66 --> 5258.66] let your light -[5259.38 --> 5260.66] shine on -[5262.34 --> 5262.66] us -[5286.66 --> 5298.66] behold the lamb -[5298.66 --> 5300.72] who bears our sins -[5300.72 --> 5302.74] away slain -[5302.74 --> 5304.66] for us -[5304.66 --> 5308.66] and we remember -[5308.66 --> 5310.66] the promise -[5310.66 --> 5312.76] made that all -[5312.76 --> 5314.80] who come in -[5314.80 --> 5316.12] faith by -[5316.12 --> 5316.66] forgiveness -[5316.66 --> 5320.66] at the cross -[5320.66 --> 5322.66] so we -[5322.66 --> 5324.66] share -[5324.66 --> 5326.66] in this bread -[5326.66 --> 5328.66] of life -[5328.66 --> 5329.66] and we -[5329.66 --> 5330.66] and we -[5330.66 --> 5332.66] drink -[5332.66 --> 5333.16] of his -[5333.16 --> 5334.66] sacrifice -[5334.66 --> 5336.66] as a sign -[5336.66 --> 5338.66] of our -[5338.66 --> 5340.66] bombs of -[5340.66 --> 5342.66] peace -[5342.66 --> 5344.66] around the table -[5344.66 --> 5346.66] of the king -[5346.66 --> 5348.66] the body -[5348.66 --> 5360.66] the body -[5360.66 --> 5362.66] of our savior -[5362.66 --> 5364.66] jesus christ -[5364.66 --> 5366.66] torn for you -[5366.66 --> 5368.66] and we -[5368.66 --> 5370.66] do -[5370.66 --> 5372.66] each and -[5372.66 --> 5374.66] remember -[5374.66 --> 5376.66] the wounds that heal -[5376.66 --> 5378.66] the death that brings us life -[5378.66 --> 5380.66] to save the -[5380.66 --> 5382.66] the prize to make us -[5382.66 --> 5384.66] one -[5384.66 --> 5386.66] so we share -[5386.66 --> 5388.66] in this bread -[5388.66 --> 5389.66] in this bread -[5389.66 --> 5390.66] of life -[5390.66 --> 5391.66] and we -[5391.66 --> 5392.66] drink -[5392.66 --> 5394.66] of his -[5394.66 --> 5396.66] sacrifice -[5396.66 --> 5398.66] as a sign -[5398.66 --> 5400.66] of our -[5400.66 --> 5402.66] bonds of love -[5402.66 --> 5404.66] around the table -[5404.66 --> 5406.66] of the king -[5406.66 --> 5426.66] the blood that cleanses every stain of sin shed for you -[5426.66 --> 5431.66] drink -[5431.66 --> 5432.66] drink -[5432.66 --> 5433.66] and remember -[5433.66 --> 5435.66] he -[5435.66 --> 5436.66] drained us -[5436.66 --> 5437.66] cup -[5437.66 --> 5439.66] that all may enter in -[5439.66 --> 5441.66] to receive -[5441.66 --> 5443.66] the life -[5443.66 --> 5445.66] of God -[5445.66 --> 5447.66] so we share -[5447.66 --> 5449.66] in this bread -[5449.66 --> 5451.66] of life -[5451.66 --> 5453.66] and we -[5453.66 --> 5454.66] and we -[5454.66 --> 5455.66] drink -[5455.66 --> 5457.66] of his -[5457.66 --> 5459.66] sacrifice -[5459.66 --> 5461.66] as a sign -[5461.66 --> 5463.66] of our -[5463.66 --> 5465.66] bonds of grace -[5465.66 --> 5469.66] around the table -[5469.66 --> 5471.66] of the king -[5471.66 --> 5489.66] and so with thankfulness and faith we rise to respond -[5489.66 --> 5491.66] to respond -[5491.66 --> 5495.66] and to remember -[5495.66 --> 5503.66] our call to follow in the steps of Christ as his -[5503.66 --> 5507.66] blood here on earth -[5507.66 --> 5509.66] as we share -[5509.66 --> 5511.66] as we share -[5511.66 --> 5513.66] in his suffering -[5513.66 --> 5515.66] we proclaim -[5515.66 --> 5519.66] Christ will come again -[5519.66 --> 5521.66] and we'll join -[5521.66 --> 5523.66] in the feast of heaven -[5523.66 --> 5527.66] around the table of the king -[5527.66 --> 5529.66] the king -[5529.66 --> 5533.66] around the table of the king -[5533.66 --> 5547.66] and still -[5547.66 --> 5554.58] in theертв -[5554.66 --> 5556.26] the king -[5556.26 --> 5582.96] Your only Son, no sin to hide -[5582.96 --> 5587.96] But you have sent Him from your side -[5587.96 --> 5592.86] To walk upon this guilty side -[5592.86 --> 5598.96] And to become the Lamb of God -[5598.96 --> 5604.36] Your gift of love they crucified -[5604.36 --> 5610.04] They laughed and scorned Him as He died -[5610.04 --> 5614.84] The humble King they named a fraud -[5614.84 --> 5619.86] And sacrificed the Lamb of God -[5619.86 --> 5624.66] O Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God -[5624.66 --> 5629.04] I love the Holy Lamb of God -[5629.56 --> 5634.34] O wash me in His precious blood -[5634.34 --> 5639.14] My Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God -[5639.14 --> 5646.16] I was so lost, I should have died -[5646.16 --> 5651.16] But you have brought me to your side -[5651.16 --> 5656.16] To be led by your staff and rod -[5656.16 --> 5660.96] And to be called the Lamb of God -[5660.96 --> 5665.98] O Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God -[5665.98 --> 5670.98] I love the Holy Lamb of God -[5670.98 --> 5675.84] O wash me in His precious blood -[5675.84 --> 5679.98] My Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God -[5679.98 --> 5685.80] My Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God -[5685.80 --> 5690.80] I love the Holy Lamb of God -[5690.80 --> 5695.80] O wash me in His precious blood -[5695.80 --> 5700.80] My Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God -[5700.80 --> 5712.62] How beautiful the hands that stirred -[5712.62 --> 5728.62] The white and the red -[5728.62 --> 5732.80] And the sons of the earth -[5732.80 --> 5739.76] How beautiful the feet that walked -[5739.76 --> 5743.04] The long dusty roads -[5743.04 --> 5746.46] And the hill to the cross -[5746.46 --> 5749.12] How beautiful -[5749.12 --> 5755.86] How beautiful -[5755.86 --> 5762.76] How beautiful -[5762.76 --> 5762.78] How beautiful -[5762.78 --> 5769.00] Is the body of Christ -[5769.00 --> 5776.58] How beautiful -[5776.58 --> 5781.04] The Lord had been -[5781.04 --> 5784.22] That took all my sin -[5784.22 --> 5787.72] And then poured in and said -[5787.72 --> 5788.66] How beautiful -[5788.66 --> 5791.42] How beautiful -[5791.42 --> 5792.20] And then poured in instead -[5792.20 --> 5792.36] How beautiful -[5792.36 --> 5792.64] How beautiful -[5792.64 --> 5794.74] The tender eyes -[5794.74 --> 5797.46] That chose to forgive -[5797.46 --> 5798.44] And never despite -[5798.44 --> 5803.38] How beautiful -[5803.38 --> 5808.50] How beautiful -[5808.50 --> 5823.94] How beautiful, how beautiful is the body of Christ. -[5823.94 --> 5836.66] And as He laid down His life, we offer this sacrifice. -[5836.66 --> 5848.48] That we will live just as He died, willing to pay the price. -[5849.48 --> 5855.24] Willing to pay the price. -[5855.24 --> 5871.48] How beautiful, the radiant bride, who waits for her groom with this light in her eyes. -[5871.48 --> 5884.76] How beautiful, when humble hearts give the fruit of your life, and that others may live. -[5884.76 --> 5906.76] How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful is the body of Christ. -[5906.76 --> 5923.76] How beautiful, the fiend that bring, the sound of good news and the love of the King. -[5923.76 --> 5937.02] How beautiful, the hands that stir, the wine and the bread, and the sons of the earth. -[5937.02 --> 5959.44] How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful is the body of Christ. -[5959.44 --> 5977.64] How beautiful, how beautiful is the world. -[5977.64 --> 6007.62] Thank you. -[6007.64 --> 6019.82] See what a morning gloriously bright, with the dawning of hope in Jerusalem. -[6019.82 --> 6031.82] Oh, will the grave close to new light, as the angels announce Christ is risen. -[6031.82 --> 6043.82] See God's salvation, where blood and love, born in pain, paid in sacrifice. -[6043.82 --> 6053.82] Oh, will the grave close to new light, for He lives right since He's risen from the dead. -[6053.82 --> 6055.82] Amen. -[6055.82 --> 6057.82] Thank you. -[6057.82 --> 6059.82] Thank you. -[6059.82 --> 6061.82] Thank you. -[6061.82 --> 6063.82] Thank you. -[6063.82 --> 6065.82] Thank you. -[6065.82 --> 6067.82] Thank you. -[6067.82 --> 6069.82] Thank you. -[6069.82 --> 6071.82] Thank you. -[6071.82 --> 6073.82] Thank you. -[6073.82 --> 6075.82] Thank you. -[6075.82 --> 6077.82] Thank you. -[6077.82 --> 6079.82] Thank you. -[6079.82 --> 6093.82] is -[6109.82 --> 6123.82] is -[6139.82 --> 6151.82] is -[6151.82 --> 6155.78] And we shall reign with Him, -[6156.12 --> 6161.26] death is dead, love is won, Christ has conquered. -[6163.16 --> 6167.26] And we shall reign with Him, -[6167.26 --> 6172.26] for He lives, Christ has given from the dead. -[6181.82 --> 6189.26] The Lord's blessing. -[6190.46 --> 6192.38] The Lord bless you and keep you. -[6192.70 --> 6195.66] The Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you. -[6195.66 --> 6198.92] The Lord turn His face towards you and give you peace. -[6199.74 --> 6200.10] Amen. -[6211.82 --> 6231.42] May the peace of God our Heavenly Father, -[6231.42 --> 6237.02] and the grace of Christ the Risen Son, -[6237.02 --> 6242.70] and the fellowship of God's Spirit, -[6243.36 --> 6248.16] keep our hearts and minds within His love. -[6248.96 --> 6254.38] And to Him He pray for His glorious reign, -[6254.38 --> 6260.04] from the death of earth to the heights of heaven. -[6260.32 --> 6265.60] We declare the name of the man once slain, -[6265.60 --> 6271.68] and Christ's eternal, the King of peace. -[6273.94 --> 6279.36] With His peace, His vast understanding, -[6280.00 --> 6285.24] and His grace which makes us what we are, -[6285.24 --> 6290.64] and the fellowship of His communion, -[6290.64 --> 6296.40] make us one in spirit and in heart. -[6296.40 --> 6302.22] And to Him He pray for His glorious reign, -[6302.22 --> 6307.78] from the death of earth to the heights of heaven. -[6307.78 --> 6313.42] We declare the name of the Lamb once slain, -[6313.42 --> 6317.98] Christ's eternal, the King of peace. -[6317.98 --> 6332.70] Christ's eternal, the King of peace. -[6332.70 --> 6339.70] Christ's eternal, the King of peace. -[6339.70 --> 6345.70] Christ's eternal, the King of peace. -[6345.70 --> 6352.70] Christ's eternal, the King of life. -[6352.70 --> 6354.04] Almighty阿 mummy, God. -[6354.04 --> 6355.04] B -[6355.04 --> 6357.56] Christ's eternal, the King of peace. -[6357.56 --> 6363.42] And thehea of Hissal represents the Tears and His exactly- -[6363.42 --> 6367.36] Of course,duAME the Kennethodore to the plan for more of last fun. -[6367.36 --> 6371.04] God Almighty also takes Omrodlanza to whoever lives in the life of the world. -[6371.04 --> 6401.02] Here we go. -[6401.04 --> 6431.02] Thank you. -[6431.04 --> 6461.02] Thank you. -[6461.04 --> 6491.02] Thank you. -[6491.04 --> 6521.02] Thank you. -[6521.04 --> 6551.02] Thank you. -[6551.04 --> 6581.02] Thank you. -[6581.04 --> 6611.02] Thank you. -[6611.04 --> 6641.02] Thank you. -[6641.04 --> 6671.02] Thank you. -[6671.04 --> 6701.02] Thank you. -[6701.04 --> 6731.02] Thank you. -[6731.04 --> 6761.02] Thank you. -[6761.04 --> 6791.02] Thank you. -[6791.04 --> 6821.02] Thank you. -[6821.04 --> 6851.02] Thank you. -[6851.04 --> 6881.02] Thank you. -[6881.04 --> 6911.02] Thank you. -[6911.04 --> 6941.02] Thank you. -[6941.04 --> 6971.02] Thank you. -[6971.04 --> 7001.02] Thank you. -[7001.04 --> 7031.02] Thank you. -[7031.04 --> 7061.02] Thank you. -[7061.04 --> 7091.02] Thank you. -[7091.04 --> 7121.02] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, May 18, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, May 18, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d0e62cfd4e077a0a3dd935a2fd78d63939bb2fc0..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, May 18, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,53 +0,0 @@ -• Announcement from Council: BBQ and lawn games on Thursday the 22nd at 6 p.m., followed by an AGM -• Discussion of financial statements and approval process for last year's budget -• Nominations for Office of Elder and Deacon, with lots to be drawn for open positions -• Upcoming vote to affirm nominees by ballot on May 25 -• Installation of new leaders on Pentecost Sunday, June 8th -• Prayer notes: Ben and Leanne's marriage, congratulations to Jason and Kathy Lee Klengelting, another couple to get married this summer (not named) -• Prayers for Tessa, Doug, Rachel Shipper's family, and the community -• Reflection on God incorporating all churches and individuals -• Story of Corrie ten Boom being allowed to pray in a communist country -• Prayer to God, praising Him and thanking Jesus for taking care of sinners -• Reading the Gospel of John and its impact on faith -• Understanding God's sovereignty and justice -• The importance of prioritizing faith and prayer -• Eschatology (study of the last things) including death, judgment day, and the return of Jesus -• Prayer for guidance, wisdom, and boldness in proclaiming God's word -• Discussion of a Bible passage from 2 Thessalonians 1:7-12 -• The concept of God's grace and peace shaping the church and response to the future -• The concept of the apocalypse and its various interpretations -• Fear and anxiety about the end of the world -• The idea that the apocalypse is not just an event but a revelation or unveiling of God's plan -• The Bible as the primary source for understanding the apocalypse -• The phrase "the day" in biblical contexts, which can refer to a future time period rather than a literal 24-hour period -• Typology and the reusing of phrases across the Bible to convey complex ideas and concepts -• The Bible's complexity and simplicity -• Two parts to each passage that use the phrase "in that day" or similar phrases, referencing both immediate judgment/consequences and future restoration/vengeance -• Genesis 2: uses the phrase "for in the day you eat of it, you shall surely die" with Adam, highlighting two parts: spiritual death at the moment of sinning, and physical death later -• Deuteronomy 32: describes God's heavenly view of history through poetry, mentioning judgment on nations and future vengeance, again using the phrase "in that day" -• Isaiah 7: uses the phrase multiple times to describe both destruction by Assyria and a promised restoration -• Joel 2: mentions a day of judgment with an unnamed but historically unmatched army, referencing both immediate consequences and future restoration/vengeance. -• A large army will invade, like in ancient times, but with God's restoration of his people -• God will pour out his spirit on all people, including men, women, and children, for prophecy, dreams, and visions -• The sun will be turned to darkness, moon to blood, before the great day of the Lord -• Jesus uses the same phrase in John 14:19-20, referring to his death, resurrection, ascension, Pentecost, and return as one event -• The "day" is not a single 24-hour period but encompasses multiple events over time -• Christ's death, resurrection, ascension, Pentecost, and return are all linked, part of God's plan for salvation and the outpouring of his wrath upon sin -• Salvation, wrath, justice, mercy, and blessing find their purpose in Jesus -• The concept of spiritual resurrection and relationship with God, nature, others, and oneself is being restored. -• Physical resurrection promises union with Jesus forever. -• The apocalypse brings relief from current trials and hope for eternity. -• Judgment is a blessing to God's people and vengeance on his enemies. -• Forgiveness and restoration are promised through repentance and faith in Jesus. -• Repentance is open to all human beings, regardless of their past. -• The promise of glory and life with Christ in eternity is available to those who believe. -• Testimony of faith in the church and towards a higher power -• Promises of eternal life and revelation through history and divine apocalypse -• Gratitude for the church's love and service to others -• Prayer for continued empowerment and glorification of God -• Reflection on personal faith and relationship with Jesus Christ -• The speaker introduces a song about praising their Savior. -• An announcement is made for a meeting after church. -• A blessing from the Lord is given, including several repetitions of similar phrases. -• A prayer is offered, asking God's favor and presence to be with those present. -• Repeated Amen statements conclude the service. \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, May 18, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, May 18, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index b06020cb32874d0fc3623b1b4d978b321e85865d..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, May 18, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,678 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 7.58] Jesus wants you. Jesus died for you. We just celebrated Easter and it's real. It is real. -[9.26 --> 21.14] Anyway, okay, first the announcement from Council. All members are invited to barbecue and lawn games on Thursday the 22nd at 6 p.m. -[21.60 --> 28.82] followed by an AGM at 7. The packet for this meeting went out last week. Please read it over. -[28.82 --> 40.14] We will be voting to approve last year's financial statements. The packet also includes Council's follow-up to the Town Hall we had about calling Pastor Kevin as Minister of the Word. -[40.84 --> 48.90] We call that document our shared future. Please read that before the meeting as we will also be discussing the process. -[50.08 --> 56.06] Council presents the following people who have been nominated and approved for the Office of Elder and Deacon. -[56.06 --> 67.52] For the Office of Deacon, Pete Birkenpass, Carolyn Spohr, Warren Verhoef. We will draw lots for two open positions at a later date. -[68.22 --> 75.96] For the Office of Pastoral Elder, Pete Birkenpass, Jesus Hernandez, Pim Schoen, Frank Welfing, and Sam Wind. -[75.96 --> 79.66] We will draw lots for three positions. -[80.66 --> 87.74] The Lord willing, as part of our worship service on May 25, we will vote to affirm the slate of nominees by ballot. -[88.60 --> 92.78] Once the nominees are affirmed, the drawing of lots will take place on June 1st. -[93.64 --> 97.96] The installation will take place on Pentecost Sunday, June 8th. -[97.96 --> 100.38] And now a few prayer notes. -[101.62 --> 109.74] Ben Walters and Leanne Meanders were united in marriage in Smithville, Ontario, on May 24th this year. -[110.30 --> 116.72] Congrats to them, to Jake and Annette, and to the whole extended family of Ben and Leanne. -[116.72 --> 127.00] As I was reading this earlier and what I was supposed to say, there is another couple who got married not this past Saturday, but the Saturday before that. -[127.66 --> 133.60] And it just so happens they are here, and it is Jason and Kathy Lee Klengelting. -[134.24 --> 134.66] Congrats. -[134.66 --> 134.84] Congrats. -[136.04 --> 145.64] And there is another couple who are also in that family, who I won't mention yet because it's a little premature, but they are also going to get married this summer. -[146.24 --> 147.60] So congrats to you too. -[148.50 --> 149.26] Blessings, people. -[150.90 --> 152.18] It's time to pray. -[152.60 --> 156.20] This morning, I want to remember Tessa. -[157.34 --> 160.02] I want to remember Doug, two people who are dealing with cancer. -[160.02 --> 163.08] And also Tanya and her family. -[164.46 --> 167.04] It's always awesome to see Tanya here. -[168.60 --> 169.94] And we pray. -[170.30 --> 170.78] We pray. -[171.78 --> 182.10] Rachel Shipper also yesterday, they had a service for her in upcountry. -[182.64 --> 183.34] Forget the name. -[184.46 --> 187.76] It happens when you get a certain age, if you don't write it down. -[188.04 --> 189.66] That's maybe why they wrote this down. -[191.02 --> 193.72] Anyway, the extended family is the whistlings and the shippers. -[195.04 --> 196.60] So we pray for them. -[198.46 --> 203.10] I was reminded this morning as we were sitting here, as we were singing, as we were praising God, -[203.10 --> 208.52] you know, on any given Sunday, there's thousands and thousands of churches worshiping. -[208.52 --> 212.80] And we all seem to think that maybe ours is the best way. -[212.80 --> 215.62] But God incorporates us all. -[216.40 --> 219.86] And there's no two like people ever, anywhere. -[219.86 --> 227.64] And then the other thing, on my journey, I read a few books from Corrie ten Boom. -[227.64 --> 229.74] And she lived through the war. -[229.74 --> 234.52] And she became a minister, pastor, missionary, call it what you want. -[234.74 --> 236.86] And she went to a lot of communist countries. -[237.52 --> 239.60] And I forget which country she went to. -[240.24 --> 246.54] But they told her specifically, because she would go to the preach, specifically she was not allowed to preach. -[246.54 --> 247.40] But she could pray. -[248.22 --> 249.16] So guess what? -[249.78 --> 251.68] She prayed for two hours. -[252.62 --> 254.00] Which I'm not going to do, but. -[255.26 --> 256.16] Anyway, let's pray. -[256.16 --> 263.04] Our Father, who art in heaven, Lord, hallowed be your name. -[264.62 --> 274.04] Lord, we praise you this morning that we could share in the joy of Mark and Dee and their beautiful kids, Lord. -[275.32 --> 278.54] Lord, you watched our journey, every one of us. -[280.30 --> 282.28] Sometimes it's pretty straightforward. -[282.62 --> 283.54] A lot of times it's not. -[284.36 --> 285.40] But you don't forget us. -[285.40 --> 286.46] You never forget us. -[286.94 --> 295.62] You place things in our midst to remind us of you, of Jesus, of what he's done for us. -[296.46 --> 300.10] Lord, we just talked about the men in prison, or the women in prison. -[301.68 --> 304.42] And they're there for a reason, but some of us could be as well. -[305.46 --> 306.66] We're all sinners, Lord. -[307.22 --> 311.86] And we thank you that Jesus, you sent Jesus to take care of that whole thing. -[312.64 --> 313.40] Thank you, Lord. -[313.40 --> 316.04] Lord, we pray for the kids. -[316.68 --> 323.00] Lord, for those of us who've been given children such a blessing and a challenge. -[323.82 --> 324.90] We pray for the moms. -[326.06 --> 332.64] Lord, we pray will you be with them day after day after day as the kids grow up. -[332.64 --> 336.12] Lord, when they're small, help us to be examples. -[336.12 --> 344.72] Lord, examples in not just do what I tell you to, but watch what I do. -[344.72 --> 347.22] Lord, do we pray? -[347.42 --> 349.12] Do we let our kids see us pray? -[349.40 --> 350.74] Do we pray with them? -[351.68 --> 353.06] Do we read your word? -[353.54 --> 355.62] Lord, we've got a whole book you sent us. -[356.08 --> 358.86] Do we actually read it with our kids, with each other? -[358.86 --> 366.34] Lord, or do we prefer to watch a football game or maybe a hockey game or whatever else we do? -[367.54 --> 371.62] Lord, a couple Sundays ago, Kevin said, Gospel of John. -[372.32 --> 374.66] Just in one sitting, read the Gospel of John. -[374.66 --> 378.58] So, Lord, some of us have done that. -[378.68 --> 379.62] It only took two hours. -[380.98 --> 381.76] Two hours. -[381.84 --> 383.62] That's faster than a game. -[385.38 --> 387.36] Lord, you know each one of us. -[388.12 --> 395.08] You tell us in Psalm 139 that you knew us before we were named. -[395.94 --> 397.62] You watched us being formed. -[397.62 --> 407.04] Lord, you've got the days, every one of our days written in your book before one of them came to be. -[408.06 --> 409.24] How amazing is that, Lord? -[411.94 --> 416.42] Lord, we ask you that you give us understanding, that you guide us. -[416.62 --> 422.66] Lord, that you help us realize what's important and what's not really important, Lord. -[422.66 --> 430.04] Lord, if we're Christians, we're going to heaven, and we praise you and thank you that you died for us. -[431.98 --> 443.48] And, Lord, you ask us or you invite us to make that same commitment if we're not, if our sins are not forgiven, Lord. -[443.78 --> 445.30] It seems just way too easy. -[445.30 --> 452.52] But you did it all for us, for the people in jail, for whomever. -[453.54 --> 460.48] Lord, and you will call, you have called, and you are calling those who you want. -[461.70 --> 462.96] Lord, we thank you for your blessings. -[463.74 --> 465.58] We help us to prioritize. -[467.08 --> 470.88] Lord, we thank you that you give us our needs, not so much our wants. -[470.88 --> 474.84] We thank you, Lord, that you answer prayer any time we pray. -[475.56 --> 478.62] We thank you, Lord, that you take time to listen to us. -[479.16 --> 479.76] Imagine that. -[480.88 --> 489.04] The maker of us, the maker of heaven and earth, takes time to listen to each one of us and counts each one of us special, Lord. -[489.92 --> 491.44] Lord, will you press that upon our hearts? -[492.34 --> 493.36] Today, this week. -[493.36 --> 504.34] Lord, as we drive somewhere by ourself and we think about these things, Lord, with your spirit, will you fill us with prompts from yourself, Lord? -[504.64 --> 505.42] And we thank you. -[506.16 --> 508.08] How amazing you set it all up, Lord. -[509.26 --> 512.26] And we thank you, Lord, for the people who've gone before us. -[512.42 --> 517.44] Most of us can think of friends, family, parents. -[518.76 --> 520.28] We've had to say goodbye to, Lord. -[520.28 --> 524.56] We pray for those people, Lord, because there's a void. -[524.70 --> 525.52] There's always a void. -[527.42 --> 529.04] But we pray we help each one of us. -[529.74 --> 531.46] We thank you for today again. -[532.38 --> 533.40] We thank you for the blessings. -[534.02 --> 536.72] We thank you that Josh is bringing your word next. -[537.16 --> 542.58] We pray we give him wisdom and insight and boldness to proclaim your word, Lord. -[543.10 --> 544.26] Thank you for your love and care. -[544.36 --> 545.10] In Jesus' name, amen. -[550.28 --> 580.26] Thank you for your love and care. -[580.58 --> 584.40] And for the other nerds out there, eschatology. -[584.88 --> 586.82] The study of the last things. -[587.26 --> 588.94] Death, our destiny after it. -[589.76 --> 592.80] The last days, Armageddon, judgment day. -[593.10 --> 594.00] All fun things. -[594.62 --> 599.68] And we get to do that today in our passage today, 2 Thessalonians 1, 7 to 12. -[599.68 --> 607.98] While you are opening your Bibles or your devices to the passage, we must remember what Chris preached last Sunday. -[608.98 --> 616.06] Paul opens up the letter of 2 Thessalonians with God's grace and peace about the way it shapes the church and our gratitude, -[616.06 --> 620.38] but also our response of faith for what God has in store in the future. -[620.98 --> 629.74] As terrifying as it may seem with all its uncertainty and chaos, let us remember there is no uncertainty in God's sovereignty. -[630.70 --> 632.12] He is faithful. -[632.12 --> 639.32] And with the reminder, let's start reading in verse 6 to connect back a little to Chris' sermon. -[639.32 --> 644.84] God is just. -[645.68 --> 652.18] He will pay back trouble to those who trouble you and give relief to you who are troubled and to us as well. -[652.18 --> 658.50] This will happen when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven in blazing fire with his powerful angels. -[659.30 --> 663.22] He will punish those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. -[664.16 --> 669.98] They will be punished with everlasting destruction and shut out from the presence of the Lord from the glory of his might. -[670.90 --> 676.50] On the day he comes to be glorified in his holy people and to be marveled at among those who have believed. -[677.30 --> 681.52] This includes you because you believed our testimony to you. -[682.66 --> 687.38] With this in mind, we constantly pray for you that our God may make you worthy of his calling -[687.38 --> 695.46] and that by his power he may bring to fruition every desire for goodness and your every deed prompted by faith. -[696.48 --> 701.14] We pray this so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you and you in him, -[702.08 --> 704.98] according to the grace of our God and Lord Jesus Christ. -[708.52 --> 709.72] This is the word of the Lord. -[712.18 --> 718.54] Many of us are obsessed with the end of the world, the apocalypse. -[719.50 --> 727.16] The movies we watch like The Terminator, War of the Worlds, Mad Max, 28 Days Later, Interstellar, Planet of the Apes, -[727.44 --> 730.28] The Day After Tomorrow, even the Pixar movie WALL-E, -[730.28 --> 734.80] and the famously questionable Christian movie Left Behind. -[737.54 --> 742.32] Though these movies all present a way humanity could find its demise, -[742.88 --> 744.50] the way that this world could end, -[744.90 --> 749.70] either with zombies, monsters, robots, God, nature, or even garbage, -[750.52 --> 751.44] in the case of WALL-E. -[751.44 --> 758.60] Sometimes the end time comes slowly, sometimes sudden, sometimes it's preventable, and other times inevitable. -[758.60 --> 761.74] And it's not just movies. -[762.46 --> 769.10] Our books often depict evil or destructive things, or a being or a force that will destroy everything. -[769.74 --> 773.30] The greatest fantasy book and movie, Lord of the Rings, -[773.70 --> 779.64] centered on a plot to stop the Dark Lord Sauron from destroying all of the good and beauty in Middle Earth, -[779.64 --> 781.76] and along with all its inhabitants. -[782.68 --> 788.42] In all of these stories, it's either something evil trying to destroy all that exists, -[788.62 --> 791.22] or something mindless just going through the motions, -[791.46 --> 794.14] and humanity and life is helpless to stop it. -[795.42 --> 797.84] Many of us are obsessed with the end, -[798.28 --> 799.98] and some of us are terrified of it. -[800.60 --> 801.86] We love this place. -[802.48 --> 804.06] Our families, our friends, -[804.42 --> 807.22] we love food and the activities we busy ourselves with. -[807.22 --> 809.00] We love the sunsets. -[809.16 --> 812.58] We love weddings and gatherings and music and baptisms. -[814.24 --> 816.02] There's a lot in this world to love. -[817.86 --> 821.06] And the idea of it ending is terrifying to us, -[821.62 --> 824.38] especially if we don't know how it's going to end. -[825.16 --> 827.82] We worry it's going to be long and painful. -[828.70 --> 832.24] We also worry it's going to be too quick for us to notice and put our affairs in order -[832.24 --> 833.74] to make the end good. -[835.02 --> 836.96] We're mostly scared about what comes after. -[837.72 --> 840.64] The dread of that mysterious end that no one can see. -[841.44 --> 844.92] When the curtain call goes, does the show just end, or is there an encore? -[847.08 --> 849.34] Paul is addressing this idea today. -[849.94 --> 852.92] What do we do with the end of our lives and the end of days? -[854.88 --> 856.54] What does the Bible say about this? -[856.74 --> 858.28] Where is God in all of this? -[858.28 --> 864.74] Our passage today, written by Paul and much of 2 Thessalonians, deals with this area of life. -[865.28 --> 869.30] And Paul's unexpected answer to this problem we face is our big idea. -[870.14 --> 876.48] The apocalypse is the relief from our trials today and hope for God's people in eternity. -[877.84 --> 881.42] Relief for our trials today and hope for God's people in eternity. -[881.42 --> 891.12] The reason the apocalypse is the relief and hope is because the apocalypse is not about a day. -[891.12 --> 892.28] It's not a time. -[892.44 --> 893.54] It's not a cataclysm. -[893.54 --> 902.56] The apocalypse comes from the Greek word apocalypsis, which means revelation, unveiling, or revealing. -[903.84 --> 906.36] The Bible is the revelation of God. -[907.32 --> 909.24] Christ is the revelation of God. -[909.24 --> 912.84] This Bible is the apocalypse. -[913.88 --> 914.76] Not an event. -[916.20 --> 918.24] This isn't just fancy wordplay. -[918.58 --> 919.98] This is everything we believe. -[920.72 --> 927.60] It's not just the events in certain parts of the Bible where it talks about cataclysms and fights with Satan and the angel Michael. -[927.98 --> 929.86] It's not just judgment day. -[930.04 --> 933.24] And it's not a set of tribulations that rip the earth in half. -[933.24 --> 945.96] The core of Christianity, the life, death, and resurrection of Christ, and his eventual return is not just about what happens right now. -[947.20 --> 949.22] It's also about the end of the world. -[950.72 --> 955.74] His death saves us from condemnation now and on that last day. -[956.72 --> 957.68] There are two parts. -[959.46 --> 960.24] But let's go see. -[960.90 --> 961.96] Let's go through and see how. -[961.96 --> 974.20] Over and over again, phrases like in that day, on that day, or the day of the Lord describe a future event where God's judgment comes for his enemies and salvation for his people. -[975.26 --> 982.82] In many cases here, the word day doesn't mean a 24-hour period of time, but simply a time at some point in the future. -[984.00 --> 989.98] For example, many times in the New Testament, it will describe a time after the disciples as the last days. -[989.98 --> 992.50] 2 Timothy 3.1 says, -[992.50 --> 995.82] But mark this, there will be terrible times in the last days. -[996.64 --> 997.50] Hebrews 1.2, -[997.66 --> 1004.88] But in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he also made the universe. -[1005.92 --> 1007.14] 2 Peter 3.3, -[1007.50 --> 1013.52] Above all, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. -[1013.52 --> 1016.92] It's been 2,000 years. -[1017.60 --> 1019.20] That's a lot of last days. -[1019.90 --> 1022.18] Or a long, long last day. -[1022.18 --> 1026.34] Phrases in the Bible are important. -[1027.54 --> 1034.28] The Bible was written by a people that didn't speak English and by people that wrote differently than us. -[1034.92 --> 1040.68] They had different techniques and different methods, and those people knew those techniques and those methods. -[1040.68 --> 1047.90] And one of those techniques is the reusing of similar phrases across the whole canon. -[1048.52 --> 1054.78] So when you see that phrase, it makes you think of all the other times that phrase is used. -[1054.78 --> 1067.88] That phrase creates a chain of increasing complexity, revealing to the person who's reading the story a concept or idea that God has been teaching his people across the whole Bible. -[1068.48 --> 1072.68] And by reading it over and over again, it starts to make more sense. -[1073.26 --> 1074.54] It becomes more clear. -[1075.06 --> 1077.36] But it takes reading it to see the pattern. -[1078.42 --> 1081.30] This method is part of what's called typology. -[1081.30 --> 1088.86] And in this phrase, in the beginning of verse 10 of 2 Thessalonians, is the phrase we will follow today. -[1089.54 --> 1090.58] On the day. -[1093.34 --> 1101.18] And as we go through a couple examples, note that there are two parts to each of the passages that we go through and how this phrase is used. -[1103.22 --> 1105.74] God's Word is rich. -[1106.22 --> 1108.64] It's complex and yet beautifully simple. -[1108.64 --> 1111.06] It is the perfect book. -[1111.72 --> 1115.54] It reaches every person where they are at and brings them closer to God. -[1116.20 --> 1123.26] But sometimes in our attempt to read this massive tome, we are slogged down in Numbers or Leviticus. -[1123.80 --> 1124.70] And I get it. -[1125.28 --> 1129.76] There are parts of the Bible that I yawn at when reading, even though I'm obsessed with it. -[1129.76 --> 1135.90] But when we go through the whole Bible and we see how this book interconnects and we see the complexity, -[1136.92 --> 1138.42] sometimes it takes more than one read. -[1138.88 --> 1139.90] It's mind-blowing. -[1140.94 --> 1142.56] So please, follow along. -[1143.40 --> 1148.32] Deal with this just for a little as we track through some passages and see what God is telling us today. -[1150.00 --> 1154.12] Our first use of this term is right in the beginning in Genesis. -[1154.12 --> 1159.44] In Genesis 2, God makes the garden and then makes Adam and places him in the garden. -[1160.04 --> 1163.10] He tells him that he can eat of any tree and then says this, -[1164.40 --> 1167.04] But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat. -[1167.74 --> 1171.50] For in the day that you eat of it, you shall surely die. -[1172.82 --> 1175.28] We see our phrase here right at the end. -[1175.52 --> 1178.36] For in the day you eat of it, you shall surely die. -[1179.10 --> 1181.56] Now, this use of the phrase seems pretty normal. -[1181.56 --> 1187.02] Well, God is just telling Adam, whatever day you happen to eat of the fruit, you'll die. -[1188.06 --> 1189.34] Why single this out? -[1190.72 --> 1193.16] Well, because Adam doesn't die that day. -[1194.30 --> 1195.58] Remember, there are two parts. -[1196.36 --> 1199.94] The first part is Adam and Eve are cursed that day that they eat the fruit. -[1201.16 --> 1206.08] All their relationships are broken between God, each other, and nature and themselves. -[1206.42 --> 1207.60] They die spiritually. -[1208.32 --> 1209.90] And Ephesians 2.1 tells us how. -[1209.90 --> 1214.22] As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins. -[1215.32 --> 1220.28] And the second part of this event is that God tells them that they will die physically, -[1220.62 --> 1222.56] returning to the dust that they were made. -[1225.36 --> 1226.90] Let's jump to Deuteronomy 32. -[1227.52 --> 1231.68] In Deuteronomy 32, we are given a heavenly view of history through poetry. -[1232.18 --> 1233.64] And he tells them two things. -[1233.64 --> 1236.00] God tells them that he made the earth. -[1236.52 --> 1240.04] And because of humanity's sin, he gave them over to the gods they worshipped instead of him, -[1240.44 --> 1244.80] dividing the nation, and kept Israel for himself as his inheritance, -[1245.20 --> 1246.72] despite the rejection of him as well. -[1247.46 --> 1249.92] And in verse 35 to 36, we get our phrase again. -[1249.92 --> 1272.50] And so we see there are two parts again in Deuteronomy 32. -[1272.50 --> 1278.96] The first part is that God has judged the nations, giving them over to their tiny gods -[1278.96 --> 1281.68] and letting them be ruled by their sinful desires. -[1282.42 --> 1286.00] And the second part is that because of their continued sin, -[1286.38 --> 1291.30] he will have his vengeance on that future day out of compassion for his people. -[1291.30 --> 1294.78] Two parts. -[1295.80 --> 1298.38] We then jump to the book of Isaiah, chapter 7. -[1299.48 --> 1305.10] Isaiah is sent to King Ahaz to tell them that because of Israel's sin and lack of repentance -[1305.10 --> 1307.06] and disregard for God and his law, -[1307.74 --> 1310.74] God has sent the king of Assyria to bring destruction to Israel. -[1311.44 --> 1316.80] With a promised restoration later on in verses 18 to 25, we see our phrase again. -[1316.80 --> 1322.70] In that day, the Lord will whistle for flies from the Nile Delta in Egypt -[1322.70 --> 1324.68] and for the bees from the land of Assyria. -[1325.18 --> 1328.66] They will all come and settle in the steep ravines and in the crevices of the rocks, -[1329.14 --> 1331.96] on all the thorn bushes and at all the watering holes. -[1332.24 --> 1335.86] In that day, the Lord will use a razor hired from beyond the Euphrates River, -[1335.98 --> 1340.50] the king of Assyria, to shave your head and private parts and to cut off your beard also. -[1341.34 --> 1344.50] And it continues like this for another five verses, -[1344.50 --> 1352.22] repeating that phrase in that day over and over again for both the invasion and the restoration, -[1353.24 --> 1355.86] hinting to us that that day is more than that. -[1356.84 --> 1358.32] And again, we see two parts. -[1359.04 --> 1362.26] The first part is that Israel will soon come under siege by Assyria. -[1362.82 --> 1366.28] And the second part is that Israel later on will be destroyed. -[1366.28 --> 1374.14] But that phrase in that day is used for both events, the destruction and the restoration. -[1374.50 --> 1382.04] Our next passage is in Joel 2, verses 1-2 and verses 28-32. -[1382.04 --> 1388.50] Chapter 2 of Joel is another heavenly view of history, like Deuteronomy. -[1389.04 --> 1392.26] And the beginning and the end sections use the phrase we've been following. -[1393.02 --> 1397.14] And what we see is, again, two parts. -[1397.82 --> 1400.00] The first part is that on the day of the Lord, -[1400.44 --> 1406.24] God is sending judgment in the form of an unnamed but also historically unmatched army. -[1406.24 --> 1407.96] Verses 1 and 2. -[1407.96 --> 1411.36] Blow the trumpet in Zion, sound the alarm on my holy hill. -[1411.92 --> 1415.42] Let all who live in the land tremble, for the day of the Lord is coming. -[1416.42 --> 1421.96] It is close at hand, a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and blackness. -[1422.36 --> 1426.12] Like dawn spreading across the mountains, a large mighty army comes, -[1426.40 --> 1430.32] such as never was in ancient times nor ever will be in ages to come. -[1430.32 --> 1436.76] And the second part is that God, like in Isaiah, is going to restore his people. -[1437.52 --> 1441.20] But more than that, his people don't just include Israel this time, -[1441.94 --> 1449.16] but people from all nations and the further promise of God's spirit dwelling and empowering with his people. -[1449.88 --> 1451.78] Verses 28-31. -[1451.78 --> 1454.48] And afterwards I will pour out my spirit on all people. -[1454.80 --> 1459.94] Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. -[1460.60 --> 1464.86] Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my spirit in those days. -[1465.06 --> 1469.00] I will show wonders in the heavens and on earth, blood and fire and billows of smoke. -[1469.42 --> 1474.88] The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord. -[1474.88 --> 1484.40] Both this imminent invasion from this unmatched army and the future restoration and further blessing of God's people -[1484.40 --> 1487.82] happen on that same great day of the Lord. -[1489.84 --> 1491.38] We now jump to the New Testament. -[1491.64 --> 1492.30] We're just about done. -[1494.14 --> 1497.60] This is one of the last passages that connects this chain together. -[1497.60 --> 1505.08] In the Gospel of John, we see that Jesus himself uses this phrase in John chapter 14, verses 19-20. -[1506.10 --> 1510.10] In chapter 14, Jesus is teaching the many last things before he goes, -[1510.26 --> 1516.46] and he promises the imminent death, his imminent death, and that the Holy Spirit would come after he dies. -[1517.36 --> 1519.14] And in verses 19-20, this is what we read. -[1519.60 --> 1526.60] Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me, because I live, you also will live. -[1526.60 --> 1533.52] On that day, you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you. -[1535.54 --> 1538.36] There are two parts to this day he's talking about. -[1538.70 --> 1544.02] The first is that he will disappear, and the second part is that they will live because he lives in them. -[1546.22 --> 1547.34] What is this day? -[1548.46 --> 1549.46] When is this? -[1549.46 --> 1556.90] Jesus is intentionally using the same phrases in Genesis, Deuteronomy, Isaiah, Joel, -[1557.08 --> 1560.30] to highlight what the day he is talking about will look like. -[1561.12 --> 1568.88] All of those uses of that phrase have taught us something about Jesus' use here in his promise to his disciples. -[1568.88 --> 1580.72] What day could Jesus be talking about where we see someone who isn't sinful become sin and is cursed by God? -[1581.40 --> 1582.42] Like in Genesis. -[1583.12 --> 1588.88] What day could we see Jesus be talking about where God makes a special people for himself -[1588.88 --> 1591.90] and separates them from those who are evil? -[1591.90 --> 1594.34] Like in Deuteronomy. -[1594.94 --> 1602.60] What day could Jesus be talking about where God brings both his wrath and his blessing on his people? -[1602.98 --> 1603.62] Like in Isaiah. -[1604.32 --> 1611.26] What day could Jesus be talking about where he both destroys his people and gives them his spirit -[1611.26 --> 1612.82] and brings them to life? -[1613.22 --> 1613.98] Like in Joel. -[1613.98 --> 1619.70] What day could Jesus be speaking about where he disappears and people get life? -[1620.18 --> 1621.06] Like in John. -[1622.12 --> 1623.46] Is it his crucifixion? -[1624.00 --> 1625.18] Is it his resurrection? -[1625.68 --> 1626.74] Is it his ascension? -[1627.22 --> 1628.22] Is it Pentecost? -[1628.62 --> 1630.22] Or is it even his return? -[1631.74 --> 1633.12] The answer is yes. -[1634.28 --> 1641.44] The day Jesus is talking about, the day all these previous stories are hinting at, teaching us about, -[1641.44 --> 1645.20] the day of the Lord is all of the above. -[1646.18 --> 1650.66] Remember the day in that phrase used over and over again isn't 24 hours. -[1651.68 --> 1655.96] In Genesis and Deuteronomy, it was one day with a promise of another day later on. -[1656.54 --> 1660.36] And in Isaiah and Joel, it was a calamity that happened over a period of time -[1660.36 --> 1663.48] with the promise that there would be a period of restoration after. -[1664.56 --> 1669.50] Just like how all of those days consisted of events of larger spans of time, -[1669.50 --> 1675.90] so it is with Christ's death and resurrection and ascension and Pentecost and his awaited return. -[1676.86 --> 1678.56] They are all linked. -[1679.34 --> 1681.32] They're not just series of events. -[1681.48 --> 1685.04] They are elements stemming from one unifying purpose. -[1685.82 --> 1688.60] Just like all those elements from Genesis to John, -[1688.78 --> 1691.86] these four days are all linked together, -[1692.02 --> 1695.56] telling a bigger story about God's plan for salvation -[1695.56 --> 1698.18] and the outpouring of his wrath upon sin. -[1699.38 --> 1703.68] All of these ideas find their purpose and unity in Jesus. -[1704.58 --> 1707.78] Salvation and wrath, justice and vengeance, -[1708.54 --> 1709.80] mercy and blessing, -[1710.40 --> 1712.34] all find their purpose in him. -[1713.40 --> 1718.04] It was on that great and terrifying and beautiful day of the Lord -[1718.04 --> 1719.60] where God became man, -[1720.08 --> 1721.46] lived the life we should have lived, -[1721.80 --> 1723.24] died the death we should have died, -[1723.46 --> 1724.90] and later rose from the dead -[1724.90 --> 1727.48] and restored, ascended to be with his Father, -[1727.88 --> 1730.08] and the Spirit came down and filled the church. -[1731.52 --> 1732.80] And now look at this. -[1733.50 --> 1736.98] Remember how when with Adam, there were two parts. -[1738.12 --> 1739.24] He died spiritually -[1739.24 --> 1741.40] and was promised a future death. -[1741.40 --> 1745.80] Christ is using that same phrase to hint to his disciples -[1745.80 --> 1748.28] that there are two parts to this new life. -[1749.00 --> 1752.06] The first part is that his disciples and every Christian -[1752.06 --> 1755.68] given new life spiritually. -[1756.66 --> 1758.38] We are raised from the dead spiritually. -[1758.86 --> 1761.84] Our relationship with God, nature, each other, and ourselves -[1761.84 --> 1763.12] is on the mend. -[1764.30 --> 1768.06] And the second part is the promise of a physical resurrection -[1768.06 --> 1770.74] where we will be united with our Savior forever. -[1771.40 --> 1774.44] This is our big idea revisited. -[1775.04 --> 1779.02] The apocalypse is our relief from today's trials -[1779.02 --> 1781.84] and hope for God's people in eternity. -[1783.08 --> 1785.96] God has turned the curse into blessing. -[1786.78 --> 1788.54] For God's people, judgment is blessing, -[1788.78 --> 1790.14] and his enemies, it is vengeance. -[1790.98 --> 1795.00] For his people, it is God's perfect justice means grace, -[1795.58 --> 1797.98] and for his enemies, it means condemnation. -[1797.98 --> 1801.64] That great and terrible day of the Lord, -[1802.06 --> 1804.24] that final day to end all days, -[1804.60 --> 1806.82] where God separates for the last time -[1806.82 --> 1808.74] his people and his enemies, -[1809.16 --> 1811.52] where God will give the promised final death -[1811.52 --> 1813.04] and the promised final life, -[1813.62 --> 1816.40] that day is hope for his people -[1816.40 --> 1819.32] and terror to everyone else. -[1819.32 --> 1823.58] He will punish those who do not know God -[1823.58 --> 1825.82] and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. -[1829.00 --> 1833.48] We were all dead in our trespasses like Adam. -[1834.48 --> 1835.92] That's where this all started. -[1836.88 --> 1837.90] We were all condemned. -[1838.76 --> 1840.28] We were all the enemy of God. -[1841.34 --> 1843.96] That day of the Lord would have been terror -[1843.96 --> 1847.62] and judgment for us all if it wasn't for Jesus. -[1848.52 --> 1850.54] In Deuteronomy, we see that God doesn't want -[1850.54 --> 1851.54] to condemn everyone. -[1852.32 --> 1854.90] He is merciful and wants to reconcile -[1854.90 --> 1857.86] our relationship with him that we destroyed. -[1858.98 --> 1861.46] And in Isaiah, we see that God is promising restoration -[1861.46 --> 1863.72] for our relationship with him, -[1864.34 --> 1868.34] that if we only recognize that we were the ones -[1868.34 --> 1869.92] that brought the calamity and death. -[1869.92 --> 1872.92] We were the ones that brought destruction. -[1874.00 --> 1875.54] And in Joel, we learned that the promise -[1875.54 --> 1878.02] isn't just for those who are currently his people, -[1878.76 --> 1882.58] but that it is open to every single human being on earth. -[1883.30 --> 1886.04] Everyone can repent and have unity with God. -[1886.92 --> 1890.60] We are the bringers of destruction, decay, and death. -[1891.50 --> 1894.78] God is the one who brings relief, hope, and life. -[1895.60 --> 1896.82] He has promised forgiveness. -[1896.82 --> 1902.52] You, even you, can repent. -[1902.80 --> 1905.72] No matter how small or big the sin is, -[1906.26 --> 1907.82] you can repent. -[1908.56 --> 1909.84] He wants you back. -[1910.52 --> 1912.24] He proved it by dying for you. -[1916.44 --> 1918.24] Let's read verses 10 to 12 again. -[1920.20 --> 1923.54] On the day he comes to be glorified in his people -[1923.54 --> 1926.24] and to be marveled at among those who believed, -[1926.82 --> 1927.82] this includes you, -[1928.56 --> 1930.86] because you believed our testimony to you. -[1931.86 --> 1932.70] With this in mind, -[1933.02 --> 1934.48] we constantly pray for you, -[1934.98 --> 1936.94] that our God may make you worthy of his calling, -[1937.34 --> 1938.44] and that by his power, -[1938.56 --> 1942.00] he may bring fruition to your every desire for goodness -[1942.00 --> 1945.12] and every deed prompted by faith. -[1945.82 --> 1947.90] We pray this so that the name of our Lord Jesus -[1947.90 --> 1949.22] may be glorified in you, -[1949.66 --> 1950.46] and you in him, -[1951.34 --> 1952.78] according to the grace of our God -[1952.78 --> 1954.12] and the Lord Jesus Christ. -[1954.12 --> 1957.26] Do you see that language? -[1958.38 --> 1959.86] Remember, there are two parts. -[1960.90 --> 1965.10] The first part is that they believed in the testimony of Paul, -[1965.46 --> 1967.30] and the second part is that -[1967.30 --> 1969.10] because they believed in the testimony, -[1969.60 --> 1972.72] they will be glorified with Christ in eternity. -[1972.72 --> 1976.64] This applies to us here today. -[1977.44 --> 1978.80] The promise of repentance, -[1979.26 --> 1981.52] of true and actual belief. -[1982.20 --> 1983.32] Christ, the word of God, -[1983.44 --> 1984.60] that testifies to us. -[1984.98 --> 1985.80] In this case, -[1985.92 --> 1987.50] Paul's message to the Thessalonians, -[1987.90 --> 1988.64] this belief, -[1988.86 --> 1989.46] this faith, -[1990.02 --> 1991.40] comes with a promise. -[1992.46 --> 1993.58] If we believe now, -[1994.10 --> 1995.06] then on that day, -[1995.14 --> 1996.42] we will be glorified with him. -[1996.42 --> 1999.26] But Paul isn't done. -[2000.24 --> 2001.34] In verses 11-12, -[2001.58 --> 2003.64] Paul ties the two-part promise -[2003.64 --> 2005.60] to prayer and God's faithfulness. -[2006.28 --> 2007.96] He prays that by the power of God, -[2008.10 --> 2011.16] they may be made worthy of God's calling, -[2011.54 --> 2012.72] and that their desires for goodness -[2012.72 --> 2014.38] and their works may be prompted by faith. -[2015.12 --> 2017.22] This is where the relief today comes from. -[2017.90 --> 2019.14] The way this church, -[2019.28 --> 2020.26] and churches everywhere, -[2020.74 --> 2022.48] the hands and feet of Jesus, -[2023.12 --> 2024.76] bring relief to his people. -[2024.76 --> 2027.40] Through faith in their faithful Savior, -[2027.94 --> 2030.20] this church can be that promised relief. -[2030.74 --> 2032.28] Is that promised relief. -[2032.78 --> 2033.90] And it is his power -[2033.90 --> 2034.90] and the prayers of the church -[2034.90 --> 2035.70] that fuel this. -[2036.64 --> 2037.88] Look at D and Mark today. -[2038.88 --> 2040.96] Their testimony of the faith of this church -[2040.96 --> 2042.90] and their faith towards you. -[2044.56 --> 2045.96] That's our relief today. -[2047.14 --> 2048.52] And because of that faith, -[2048.72 --> 2051.00] we have that promise on that final day. -[2052.30 --> 2053.74] Remember, two parts. -[2055.22 --> 2056.14] Langley, Emmanuel, -[2056.82 --> 2058.26] as we go from this place -[2058.26 --> 2059.64] with this in mind, -[2060.30 --> 2061.60] may we constantly pray -[2061.60 --> 2063.34] that our God may make us worthy -[2063.34 --> 2063.94] of this calling, -[2064.76 --> 2065.68] and that by his power, -[2065.80 --> 2066.84] we may bring to fruition -[2066.84 --> 2069.04] our every desire for goodness -[2069.04 --> 2071.56] and our deeds prompted by faith. -[2072.38 --> 2073.68] Let us pray so that the name -[2073.68 --> 2075.08] of our Lord Jesus Christ -[2075.08 --> 2076.24] may be glorified in us -[2076.24 --> 2077.26] and us in him, -[2078.40 --> 2079.92] according to the grace of our God -[2079.92 --> 2081.12] and Lord Jesus Christ. -[2081.12 --> 2083.10] On that day, -[2083.86 --> 2085.70] that great and terrible day, -[2086.08 --> 2087.98] when we are before the throne of God, -[2088.56 --> 2090.54] we won't just receive -[2090.54 --> 2092.16] a promise of life to come. -[2092.76 --> 2094.96] We will receive the eternal life -[2094.96 --> 2096.96] that he has been promising -[2096.96 --> 2098.74] this whole time. -[2100.10 --> 2102.64] Revealing it slowly through history. -[2103.68 --> 2104.82] Revealing it to us. -[2104.82 --> 2105.28] Revealing it to us. -[2105.28 --> 2105.90] Uncovering it -[2105.90 --> 2107.46] in God's revelation, -[2107.88 --> 2108.90] in his apocalypse. -[2110.98 --> 2112.48] In the apocalypse, -[2113.24 --> 2113.80] this book, -[2114.44 --> 2116.00] we have relief today -[2116.00 --> 2118.08] and hope in eternity. -[2120.28 --> 2121.00] Let's pray. -[2121.00 --> 2124.86] God, -[2124.94 --> 2125.84] thank you for this day. -[2127.02 --> 2128.24] Thank you for the way -[2128.24 --> 2130.38] this church loves each other -[2130.38 --> 2131.70] and the world around us. -[2132.42 --> 2133.62] For the way that we've taken -[2133.62 --> 2134.60] the opportunity to help -[2134.60 --> 2136.80] the prisoners in chains -[2136.80 --> 2138.58] and the way that we've helped -[2138.58 --> 2139.72] the poor. -[2140.62 --> 2141.70] The way that we've helped each other -[2141.70 --> 2143.10] in various ways. -[2143.32 --> 2143.68] I pray, Lord, -[2143.70 --> 2144.76] that we would continue to do so -[2144.76 --> 2145.68] and that you, -[2146.20 --> 2146.74] through this prayer, -[2146.84 --> 2148.12] would continue to empower us -[2148.12 --> 2149.84] to do all this. -[2149.84 --> 2151.18] You have given Your Holy Spirit, -[2151.34 --> 2151.44] Lord, -[2151.48 --> 2152.60] and I pray that we would continue -[2152.60 --> 2153.58] to glorify You -[2153.58 --> 2154.90] now and forever. -[2155.36 --> 2155.64] Amen. -[2155.64 --> 2155.74] Amen. -[2179.84 --> 2187.84] As in assurance, -[2189.34 --> 2190.84] Jesus is mine. -[2192.12 --> 2194.18] Oh, what a forte -[2194.18 --> 2196.84] of glory divine. -[2197.96 --> 2200.00] Heir of salvation, -[2200.84 --> 2203.10] purchase of God. -[2203.10 --> 2205.76] Lord of His Spirit, -[2206.54 --> 2208.78] washed in His blood. -[2208.78 --> 2211.54] This is my story, -[2212.22 --> 2214.52] this is my song, -[2215.06 --> 2217.12] praising my Savior -[2217.12 --> 2220.08] all the day long. -[2220.44 --> 2222.74] This is my story, -[2223.58 --> 2225.74] this is my song, -[2226.30 --> 2228.38] praising my Savior -[2228.38 --> 2231.64] all the day long. -[2231.64 --> 2235.08] perfect submission, -[2235.08 --> 2237.90] perfect divine, -[2237.90 --> 2240.08] visions of rapture, -[2241.08 --> 2243.56] numbers of my sight, -[2243.98 --> 2246.02] angels descending, -[2246.90 --> 2249.00] great from above, -[2249.56 --> 2251.60] echoes of mercy, -[2252.48 --> 2254.62] whispers of love. -[2254.62 --> 2257.38] This is my story, -[2257.38 --> 2260.28] this is my song, -[2260.28 --> 2262.96] praising my Savior -[2262.96 --> 2265.78] all the day long. -[2265.78 --> 2268.42] This is my story, -[2268.42 --> 2271.42] this is my song, -[2271.42 --> 2274.02] praising my Savior -[2274.02 --> 2277.24] all the day long. -[2277.24 --> 2280.68] perfect submission, -[2280.68 --> 2283.80] all is at rest, -[2283.80 --> 2286.36] high in my Savior, -[2287.08 --> 2289.42] happy and blessed, -[2289.42 --> 2292.08] watching and waiting, -[2292.90 --> 2295.04] looking above, -[2295.52 --> 2297.80] filled with His goodness, -[2298.52 --> 2300.66] lost in His love. -[2300.78 --> 2303.32] This is my story, -[2303.36 --> 2306.34] this is my song, -[2306.74 --> 2309.02] praising my Savior -[2309.02 --> 2311.66] all the day long. -[2312.12 --> 2314.66] This is my story, -[2315.10 --> 2317.52] this is my song, -[2318.04 --> 2320.10] praising my Savior -[2320.10 --> 2322.64] all the day long. -[2323.32 --> 2325.72] This is my story, -[2326.56 --> 2328.90] this is my song, -[2328.90 --> 2334.72] Praising my Savior all the day long -[2334.72 --> 2340.78] This is my story, this is my song -[2340.78 --> 2347.08] Praising my Savior all the day long -[2347.08 --> 2359.88] I'm so worried about my sermon this morning that I forgot to get an announcement in -[2359.88 --> 2361.46] So, quickly before the blessing -[2361.46 --> 2364.94] Young adults, if you didn't receive the email, there's a meeting after church -[2364.94 --> 2366.80] Ten minutes after, in the multi-purpose room -[2366.80 --> 2369.42] But, the blessing of the Lord -[2369.42 --> 2372.76] The Lord bless you and keep you -[2372.76 --> 2376.38] The Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you -[2376.38 --> 2379.82] The Lord turn His face towards you and give you peace -[2379.82 --> 2380.94] Amen -[2406.38 --> 2411.82] Amen -[2411.82 --> 2415.82] Amen -[2415.82 --> 2419.82] Amen -[2419.82 --> 2422.82] Amen -[2422.82 --> 2427.82] Amen -[2427.82 --> 2429.82] Amen -[2429.82 --> 2431.82] Amen -[2431.82 --> 2438.14] Amen -[2438.14 --> 2440.94] Amen -[2440.94 --> 2441.26] Amen -[2441.26 --> 2443.92] Amen -[2444.64 --> 2447.14] Amen -[2447.14 --> 2448.78] Amen -[2448.78 --> 2451.20] Amen -[2451.20 --> 2452.78] Amen -[2452.78 --> 2455.98] Amen -[2455.98 --> 2459.26] Amen -[2459.26 --> 2461.26] Amen. -[2489.26 --> 2496.02] Lord, bless you and keep you. -[2496.52 --> 2499.80] Make this face shine upon you. -[2500.10 --> 2502.34] Be gracious to you. -[2502.34 --> 2514.22] Lord, turn his face toward you and give you peace. -[2514.84 --> 2518.16] Amen. -[2519.26 --> 2521.48] Amen. -[2523.02 --> 2524.68] Amen. -[2526.52 --> 2527.48] Amen. -[2532.40 --> 2533.50] Amen. -[2535.46 --> 2537.16] Amen. -[2549.26 --> 2569.80] May His favor be upon you and a thousand generations -[2569.80 --> 2576.26] And your family and your children and their children and their children -[2576.26 --> 2582.88] And His presence go before you and behind you and beside you -[2582.88 --> 2589.46] All around you and within you He is with you, He is with you -[2589.46 --> 2595.60] In your morning and in evening and you're coming and you're going -[2595.60 --> 2603.86] And you're weeping and you're rejoicing He is for you, He is for you, He is for you -[2603.86 --> 2610.48] He is for you, He is for you, He is for you, He is for you -[2610.48 --> 2615.48] He is for you, He is for you -[2615.48 --> 2619.48] Amen -[2619.48 --> 2622.48] Amen -[2622.48 --> 2625.48] Amen -[2625.48 --> 2630.48] Amen -[2630.48 --> 2634.48] Amen -[2634.48 --> 2636.48] Amen -[2636.48 --> 2643.48] Amen -[2643.48 --> 2645.48] Amen -[2645.48 --> 2648.48] Amen -[2648.48 --> 2651.48] Amen -[2651.48 --> 2657.48] Amen -[2657.48 --> 2658.48] Amen -[2658.48 --> 2659.48] Amen -[2659.48 --> 2660.48] Amen -[2661.48 --> 2665.48] Amen -[2666.48 --> 2667.48] Amen -[2667.48 --> 2670.48] Amen -[2670.48 --> 2672.48] Amen -[2672.48 --> 2673.48] Amen -[2673.48 --> 2677.48] Amen -[2677.48 --> 2682.48] Amen -[2682.48 --> 2712.46] Thank you. -[2712.48 --> 2742.46] Thank you. -[2742.48 --> 2772.46] Thank you. -[2772.48 --> 2802.46] Thank you. -[2802.48 --> 2804.48] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, May 19, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, May 19, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 5fd7fafe228fa12966ef70d16dd3d6f21d80d567..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, May 19, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,115 +0,0 @@ -• Death's grip on the speaker is broken -• Jesus Christ is their living hope -• The grave has no claim on them -• Worship service begins -• Welcome message from Pastor Chris -• Announcements: - + Deadline to sign up for youth camp - + Cadet Camp Week information -• Invitation to stand and be welcomed into God's presence -• Opening prayer and greeting -• Reading from Acts 2 (Pentecost Sunday) -• Psalm 63 as the prayer of confession -• Confession of sin and seeking God's forgiveness -• Prayer for revival and restoration of the church -• Prayers and confessions of sin -• Restoration of the church -• Revival and revival prayers -• Reading from Ezekiel 36 -• Personal prayer and devotionals -• Introduction to Resonate (Christian mission organization) -• Mission work and partnership with Resonate -• Hymn singing -• Jesus is praised as the glory and love of those present -• A segment about children's worship time begins, featuring Hank telling his "origin story" of being rescued from a thrift store -• The concept of rescue is expanded to include an even better rescue mission, referencing Sunday school or children's worship time -• Prayer is led for the day and for adults learning about God in church -• The speaker reflects on how their spiritual practice is being stretched -• Congregational prayer and seeking God's guidance are emphasized -• A church family prayer is led, thanking God for his presence and asking for guidance, strength, and blessings -• Prayers are offered for upcoming meetings, synod gatherings, and travel plans -• The nomination process for church offices is discussed and prayers are asked for divine guidance -• Scripture readings from Matthew 28:16-20 and Acts 2:36-41 are announced -• The importance of repentance, baptism, and receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit -• The distinction between being "spiritual" (outside traditional faith) vs. being "Spirit-filled" (a Christian experience) -• Critique of modern language around spirituality and its potential to muddy waters about what it means to be in the Spirit -• Discussion of Christian experiences of being Spirit-filled, including dancing, speaking in tongues, and prophecy -• Proposal that being Spirit-filled is not primarily about a personal experience, but rather about being aligned with the mission of the church -• Thesis statement: The work of the Holy Spirit equals the mission of the church -• The importance of the truth for the life of the church -• The work of the Holy Spirit in making union with Jesus possible through faith -• The mission of the church and its relation to the work of the Holy Spirit -• The doctrine of the union with Christ and its significance in Christianity -• The implications of this doctrine on individual reality and relationship with God -• The work of the Holy Spirit starts in one's heart and is connected to their affections. -• The Holy Spirit's greater miracle is piercing hearts with conviction and faith. -• The Holy Spirit grants new life, transforming dead bodies by breathing in new life. -• Faith and believing are a gift from the Holy Spirit, made possible through its previous work in one's heart. -• The Holy Spirit makes the Gospel effective in one's heart, transforming it from stone to flesh. -• Believing the Word is only made possible because of the previous work of the Holy Spirit. -• The Holy Spirit is necessary for Christ's message to become effective and real. -• Faith in the word is the means of our union with Christ. -• The Holy Spirit works through faith, transforming hearts from stone to flesh. -• The work of the Holy Spirit includes maturing and growing our union with Christ. -• Growing in the word is the means of growing with Christ. -• The process of spiritual growth is ordinary and consistent. -• The importance of protecting and clinging to God's word -• The role of the Holy Spirit in transformation and sanctification -• The fruit of the Holy Spirit (love, joy, peace, etc.) -• The need for union with Christ and the Holy Spirit to achieve holiness -• The danger of becoming passive or apathetic in struggles against sin due to lack of faith in the power of the Holy Spirit -• The good news of the gospel is that God saves us from our sin through the life, death, resurrection, and exaltation of Jesus. -• Salvation not only frees us from sin but also leads to a life lived in relationship with God, characterized by gratitude, holiness, and righteousness. -• This is what God originally designed for humans: to live as image bearers of God, having dominion over creation. -• The gospel is the power of God unto salvation and sanctification, an ongoing work of the Holy Spirit. -• Through faith in Jesus, believers can experience transformation, overcoming sin, darkness, and despair, and living a life with God's power. -• The Holy Spirit's work is to make union with Christ possible by faith. -• The ultimate act of the Holy Spirit is to take those who are united to Christ and make them into worshippers of Jesus. -• The Holy Spirit's role is to make much of Jesus in our midst. -• The work of the Holy Spirit equals the mission of the church, which is worship. -• Missions are about going into places where the gospel is not known -• The mission of the church is to worship God, and making worshipers where there is none -• There are three main things: making worshipers where there is none, making worshipers where there are few, and making deeper worshipers -• Both salvation and election happen for us so that we might be for the praise of His glory -• The Bible has a consistent theme of creation praising God -• Psalm 19 and other psalms declare that all creation exists to praise God -• The mission of the church is to make worshippers where there are none -• Jesus' command in Matthew 29 is to go and make disciples, particularly in areas with no worshippers -• Scripture emphasizes the importance of making people from all nations worship God -• The mission of the church is to proclaim the gospel and invite people into union with Christ through the work of the Holy Spirit. -• The primary means by which this mission is accomplished are ordinary and regular activities in the life and work of the church, such as teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer. -• The Holy Spirit has already used these means to create union with Christ and now uses them to grow the church and include others in that union. -• The importance of devotion to the teaching of the apostles -• Commitment to fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer -• How the Holy Spirit works in the church -• The mission of the church should make deeper worshippers -• Referencing Ephesians 4 and Acts 2, regarding baptism and receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit -• The promise of the Holy Spirit for believers and their children -• Growth from immaturity to maturity as followers of Christ -• The importance of testing God's will and power through the spirit -• Recognizing the need to live a victorious life over sin and struggles -• Putting on the new self created in true righteousness and holiness -• Living as children of the light, not the darkness -• Being filled with the Holy Spirit to speak to one another in psalms and hymns -• The mission of the church is to make deeper worshippers of God -• The work of the Holy Spirit is crucial in this process -• Worship, faith, and union with Jesus are essential components -• The church's mission involves making worshippers where there are none or few, and growing the faith of those who already believe -• Prayer to God in the name of Jesus Christ -• Strength and perfection in union with Christ -• Protection from dissolution, breaking, or destruction -• Confidence in truth by the power of the Holy Spirit -• Departure from a place filled with hope and joy -• Living transformed lives that change the world around them -• The concept of God's presence and its impact on individuals -• The idea that nothing is worth more than God's presence -• A song or hymn being sung to praise God and acknowledge His glory -• Inviting the Holy Spirit to be present and fill the atmosphere -• The desire for a deeper awareness of God's presence in one's life -• Praise and worship of God in various forms -• God's presence and protection -• Faith and trust in God's guidance -• Redemption and salvation through Jesus Christ -• The Kingdom of God and its revelation -• Praise and adoration to the Trinity (Father, Son, Spirit) -• Biblical references and phrases mentioned throughout the praise and worship \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, May 19, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, May 19, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 104702a07f57f996afb7522c956c478e21a80e53..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, May 19, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2357 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 3.30] Death has lost its grip on me. -[3.46 --> 6.74] You have broken every chain. -[7.10 --> 10.06] There's self-esteem in your name. -[10.32 --> 16.16] Jesus Christ, my living hope. -[16.90 --> 17.94] Hallelujah. -[20.14 --> 23.30] Praise the one who set me free. -[23.68 --> 24.60] Hallelujah. -[24.60 --> 25.60] Hallelujah. -[26.76 --> 29.92] Death has lost its grip on me. -[30.22 --> 33.38] You have broken every chain. -[33.76 --> 36.68] There's self-esteem in your name. -[36.96 --> 43.02] Jesus Christ, my living hope. -[46.48 --> 52.12] Then came the morning that sealed the promise. -[52.12 --> 58.66] Your bearing body began to breathe. -[58.66 --> 62.04] Out of the silence. -[62.04 --> 62.68] Out of the silence. -[62.68 --> 65.62] The roaring lion. -[65.62 --> 68.40] Declared the grave. -[68.40 --> 71.68] Has no claim on me. -[71.68 --> 75.72] Then came the morning. -[75.72 --> 79.10] Jesus, yours is the victory. -[79.10 --> 82.48] Your buried body. -[82.48 --> 85.48] Your buried body began to breathe. -[85.48 --> 89.42] Out of the silence. -[89.42 --> 92.12] The roaring lion. -[92.12 --> 95.06] Declared the grave. -[95.06 --> 98.62] Has no claim on me. -[98.62 --> 104.00] Jesus, yours is the victory. -[104.00 --> 104.58] Jesus, yours is the victory. -[104.58 --> 109.00] Oh, hallelujah. -[109.00 --> 112.38] Oh, hallelujah. -[112.38 --> 112.92] Oh, hallelujah. -[112.92 --> 116.62] Praise the one who set me free. -[116.62 --> 117.88] Hallelujah. -[117.88 --> 118.38] Hallelujah. -[118.38 --> 119.38] Hallelujah. -[119.38 --> 120.38] Hallelujah. -[120.38 --> 123.28] Death has lost its grip on me. -[123.28 --> 126.74] You have broken every chain. -[126.88 --> 129.98] This time they say your name. -[130.06 --> 135.02] Jesus Christ, my living hope. -[135.02 --> 165.00] Jesus Christ, my living hope. -[165.00 --> 169.82] Jesus Christ, my living hope. -[169.82 --> 172.38] Jesus Christ, my living hope. -[172.38 --> 175.26] Because you are my living hope. -[195.00 --> 215.70] Come and stand before your Maker, full of wonder, full of fear. -[215.70 --> 221.26] Come behold His power and glory, yet with confidence strongly. -[221.26 --> 233.54] For the One who holds the heavens and commands the stars above, is the God who bents to bless us with an unrelenting love. -[235.46 --> 245.36] Rejoice! Come and lift your hands and raise your voice. He is worthy of our praise. -[245.36 --> 256.36] Rejoice! Sing the mercies of your King, and with trembling rejoice. -[257.36 --> 262.82] We are children of the promise, the beloved of the Lord. -[263.28 --> 268.70] One with everlasting kindness, bought with sacrificial blood. -[268.70 --> 280.64] Bringing reconciliation to a world that longs to know the affections of a Father who will never let them go. -[282.32 --> 289.34] Rejoice! Come and lift your hands and raise your voice. -[289.34 --> 291.18] He is worthy of our praise. -[292.70 --> 294.30] Good morning. -[294.30 --> 298.40] Good morning. Welcome to worship. -[298.92 --> 310.16] Welcome to worship on this long weekend Sunday, which might indicate why we're a little bit more spread around than we would otherwise be. -[310.54 --> 318.38] But also on this Pentecost Sunday, where we celebrate and recognize the coming of the Holy Spirit in power. -[318.38 --> 323.52] And we will hear more about that throughout our worship together this morning. -[323.52 --> 326.46] If you're a guest with us here today, my name is Chris. -[326.68 --> 334.88] I'm one of the pastors here, and it's my privilege to lead in our shared worship this morning, along with these others and a few more yet that you haven't seen. -[335.58 --> 340.14] We have one big announcement, and I'm going to hand that over to Pastor Kevin so he can give it. -[340.94 --> 342.00] Good morning, everyone. -[342.16 --> 342.80] Oh, there it is. -[342.86 --> 343.50] Thanks, Courtney. -[343.80 --> 345.82] Big round of applause for Courtney in the back. -[347.30 --> 351.84] Our sound people don't get enough love and always get enough, like, stares when something goes wrong. -[351.84 --> 352.44] So thanks, Courtney. -[352.96 --> 360.88] Youth, if you're out there today, and youth parents, if you're listening as well, today is the deadline to sign up for youth camp, which is happening next weekend at Manning Park. -[361.46 --> 364.44] Hopefully you've seen one of my 18 emails about that. -[364.82 --> 371.08] If you can get your registration sheets informed into me today, that would be amazing. -[371.18 --> 373.90] We have to get numbers and get going on groceries and supplies and stuff this week. -[373.96 --> 374.72] So today's the deadline. -[375.20 --> 375.80] Sign up today. -[376.16 --> 376.74] It'll be awesome. -[376.74 --> 380.16] We'll be heading to Manning Park this coming Friday. -[380.36 --> 381.36] So hopefully I'll see you on Twitter. -[383.60 --> 384.00] Excellent. -[384.14 --> 390.18] So I said we had one big announcement, and then we have one little announcement, and that's because the targets of these announcements are the little people among us. -[390.26 --> 393.94] But next week is also Cadet Camp Week. -[393.94 --> 403.12] And so if you are part of the cadet program, or if you are going to start cadets next year, you're invited to go camping next weekend with those leaders. -[403.90 --> 406.18] And so there's been some emails out about that. -[406.24 --> 409.20] But if you have questions, you can talk to Andrew. -[409.32 --> 410.80] Andrew's going to raise his hand real high. -[410.96 --> 411.12] There. -[411.24 --> 411.80] That's the guy. -[411.92 --> 412.42] Talk to him. -[412.56 --> 416.50] He will give you any information you might need for that as well. -[416.50 --> 418.92] I believe that's it for us this morning. -[419.16 --> 424.36] And so I'm going to invite you, as you're able, to stand, and we might be welcomed into God's presence together. -[429.68 --> 435.88] And so open your hearts and receive the greeting of God in our worship. -[435.88 --> 448.08] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, Son, and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[449.10 --> 449.54] Amen. -[450.62 --> 453.28] As God's greeted us, I invite you to greet those around you. -[453.28 --> 453.78] Amen. -[465.88 --> 491.70] On this Pentecost Sunday, hear these words from Acts 2. -[491.70 --> 521.58] Let's gather together in worship this morning. -[522.62 --> 525.00] Amen. -[525.00 --> 525.26] Amen. -[525.50 --> 527.36] Amen. -[527.42 --> 529.52] Amen. -[532.38 --> 533.96] Amen. -[533.96 --> 559.00] How lonely is your dwelling place, O Lord Almighty. -[559.00 --> 569.00] For my soul longs and even days for you. -[573.00 --> 580.00] For here my heart is satisfied. -[580.00 --> 585.00] I live in your presence. -[586.00 --> 596.00] I see beneath the shadow of your ways. -[596.00 --> 606.00] There is one day in your house. -[606.00 --> 608.00] There is one day in your voice. -[608.00 --> 612.00] Thousands of sweat. -[612.00 --> 618.00] There is one day in your house. -[618.00 --> 621.00] There is one day in your house. -[621.00 --> 624.00] Thousands of sweat. -[624.00 --> 627.00] Thousands of sweat. -[627.00 --> 631.00] Oh my Lord -[631.00 --> 637.00] One thing I asked. -[637.00 --> 638.00] And I would seek. -[638.00 --> 640.00] To see your saturday. -[640.00 --> 647.50] To find you in the place your glory does. -[647.50 --> 659.50] oh -[669.42 --> 675.50] manage -[677.50 --> 707.48] There is one day in your house, but I'm just ready. -[707.50 --> 737.48] I'm just ready. -[737.50 --> 747.50] There is one day in your house, but I'm just ready. -[747.50 --> 759.50] There is one day in your woods, there is one day in your house, there is one day in your words, now I'm just ready. -[759.50 --> 771.50] There is one day in your house, but I'm just ready. -[771.50 --> 783.50] There is one day in your house, but I'm just ready. -[783.50 --> 795.50] There is one day in your house, but I'm just ready. -[795.50 --> 807.50] There is one day in your house, but I'm just ready. -[807.50 --> 819.50] There is one day in your house, but I'm just ready. -[819.50 --> 831.50] There is one day in your house, but I'm just ready. -[831.50 --> 843.50] There is one day in your house, but I'm just ready. -[843.50 --> 855.50] There is one day in your house, but I'm just ready. -[855.50 --> 867.50] There is one day in your house, but I'm just ready. -[867.50 --> 877.50] There is one day in your house, but I'm just ready. -[877.50 --> 879.50] There is one day in your house, but I'm just ready. -[879.50 --> 899.50] There is one day in your house, but I'm just ready. -[899.50 --> 905.68] The Lord Jesus come. -[907.68 --> 915.34] The Lord Jesus come. -[916.86 --> 918.40] I invite you to this morning. -[923.70 --> 928.62] Our prayer of confession this morning is the words of Psalm 63. -[928.62 --> 930.58] Please join me in prayer. -[932.98 --> 935.52] You, God, are our God. -[935.92 --> 937.38] Earnestly we seek you. -[938.36 --> 939.54] We thirst for you. -[939.72 --> 945.22] Our whole body longs for you in a dry and parched land where there is no water. -[946.30 --> 950.56] We have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory. -[950.96 --> 955.58] Because your love is better than life, our lips will glorify you. -[955.58 --> 958.92] We will praise you as long as we live. -[959.04 --> 961.44] And in your name we will lift up our hands. -[962.34 --> 965.72] We will be fully satisfied as with the richest of foods. -[966.22 --> 968.92] With singing lips our mouths will praise you. -[970.12 --> 971.98] On our bed we remember you. -[972.52 --> 974.76] We think of you through the watches of the night. -[975.26 --> 977.20] Because you are our help. -[977.48 --> 979.48] We sing in the shadow of your wings. -[979.64 --> 980.66] We cling to you. -[981.28 --> 983.04] Your right hand holds us. -[983.04 --> 986.56] Those who want to kill us will be destroyed. -[987.00 --> 989.06] They will go down to the depths of the earth. -[989.56 --> 993.02] They will be given over to the sword and become food for jackals. -[994.10 --> 997.10] But the king will rejoice in God. -[998.16 --> 1001.40] All who swear by God will glory in him. -[1001.94 --> 1005.16] While the mouths of liars will be silenced. -[1005.16 --> 1008.58] And the beasts will be忍民. -[1008.58 --> 1010.02] And we may stand as we sing. -[1010.44 --> 1011.72] Breathe out and sing them. -[1011.72 --> 1012.54] ש ש students -[1012.54 --> 1015.62] Let us sing. -[1017.62 --> 1019.30] please sing. -[1020.68 --> 1026.06] שainen -[1026.06 --> 1027.18] e -[1027.18 --> 1041.18] O Lord, forgive us, we have lost the honor of you. -[1041.18 --> 1048.18] Have mercy, have mercy. -[1048.18 --> 1061.18] O Lord, cleanse our hearts and hearts, we have divided. -[1061.18 --> 1067.18] Serve the faith that we once knew. -[1067.18 --> 1074.18] We're thirsty, we're thirsty. -[1074.18 --> 1087.18] O Lord, restore the church that bears your name. -[1087.18 --> 1100.18] O Spirit, send a revival to this nation. -[1100.18 --> 1106.18] Free on us again. -[1106.18 --> 1112.18] Free on us again. -[1112.18 --> 1131.18] O Lord, forgive us, we have lost the honor of you. -[1131.18 --> 1138.18] Have mercy, have mercy. -[1138.18 --> 1152.18] O Lord, cleanse our hearts and hearts and hearts and hearts. -[1152.18 --> 1158.18] Serve the faith that we once knew. -[1158.18 --> 1165.18] We're thirsty, we're thirsty. -[1165.18 --> 1177.18] O Lord, restore the church that bears your name. -[1177.18 --> 1178.18] 3 -[1178.18 --> 1184.18] O Lord, foles, we have pardoned andievers saying, -[1184.18 --> 1190.18] And we want to stand over the Werk. -[1190.18 --> 1200.18] 95. -[1200.18 --> 1216.38] O Lord, restore the church that bears your name. -[1216.38 --> 1229.82] O Spirit send a revival to this nation. -[1231.28 --> 1236.94] Breathe on us again. -[1236.94 --> 1243.38] Breathe on us again. -[1246.38 --> 1254.62] Hear these words, beautiful words of assurance for us from Ezekiel 36. -[1254.62 --> 1257.58] For I will take you out of the nations. -[1257.58 --> 1262.80] I will gather you from all the countries and bring you back into your own land. -[1263.56 --> 1267.38] I will sprinkle clean water on you and you will be clean. -[1268.34 --> 1271.98] I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. -[1271.98 --> 1276.48] I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you. -[1277.34 --> 1281.18] I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. -[1281.64 --> 1287.62] And I will put my spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. -[1288.50 --> 1291.18] Then you will live in the land I gave your ancestors. -[1291.60 --> 1294.84] You will be my people and I will be your God. -[1294.84 --> 1324.82] Father, I will be your God. -[1324.82 --> 1354.80] Lord, I will be your God. -[1354.80 --> 1360.26] Pray, turn me, hold my head upon. -[1360.26 --> 1363.48] And I will stand upon your truth. -[1363.88 --> 1366.64] Bring glory unto you. -[1366.64 --> 1372.28] And let the peace of God let it rain. -[1373.74 --> 1379.52] Hold on and offer for more of you. -[1379.52 --> 1381.52] Rise up within me. -[1381.52 --> 1382.76] Rise up within me. -[1382.76 --> 1385.98] Let me know your children. -[1385.98 --> 1392.26] Oh, Holy Spirit, set your name by soul. -[1392.36 --> 1398.76] And let the life of God fill me now. -[1398.76 --> 1400.76] Let your healing crown. -[1400.76 --> 1401.76] And let the peace of God fill me now. -[1401.76 --> 1405.76] Let the peace of God fill me now. -[1405.76 --> 1410.76] And let the peace of God fill me now. -[1410.76 --> 1416.22] Holy Spirit, set your name by soul. -[1416.22 --> 1422.06] Let the peace of God fill me now. -[1422.06 --> 1424.64] And let the peace of God fill me now. -[1424.64 --> 1437.64] Let me run the race of time, with your life folding by, and let the peace of God let it rain. -[1437.64 --> 1462.64] Oh, Lord, Savior, Lord, of God, strengthen me, hold my head of power, and I'll stand upon your tomb, bringing glory unto you, and let the peace of God let it rain. -[1462.64 --> 1475.64] Hold our comfort for more of you, rise up within me, let me know your truth. -[1475.64 --> 1500.64] Hold our spirit, set the faith in my soul, and let the life of God fill me out, let your living come, bring light to make me whole, and let the peace of God let it rain. -[1500.64 --> 1504.64] Amen. -[1504.64 --> 1511.64] Amen. -[1511.64 --> 1525.26] Good morning. -[1525.82 --> 1528.94] Today's offering is for Resonate. -[1529.34 --> 1537.50] In 2017, Christian Reform World Missions and Christian Reform Home Missions joined forces and became Resonate. -[1537.50 --> 1541.62] Our church partners with Resonate to help build God's church. -[1542.26 --> 1549.48] We do this by planting churches and supporting ministry in North America, as well as sending missionaries around the world. -[1550.74 --> 1561.92] Resonate is here to walk alongside us in preparing missionaries and volunteers, calling and supporting church planters and campus ministries, -[1561.92 --> 1568.96] connecting with ministries overseas, engaging young and old church members in mission work, -[1569.50 --> 1574.86] and following the Spirit by discerning new ways to demonstrate and proclaim the gospel. -[1575.54 --> 1576.22] Thank you. -[1576.22 --> 1606.20] Thank you. -[1606.22 --> 1617.22] Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful ways, -[1617.22 --> 1629.96] and the wings of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace. -[1629.96 --> 1632.96] Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His glory and grace. -[1632.96 --> 1646.12] Turn your eyes to the hillside, where justice and mercy and grace. -[1646.12 --> 1657.96] There the Son of God gave His life for us, and our evangelist debt was erased. -[1657.96 --> 1663.96] Jesus, Jesus, we lift our hands. -[1663.96 --> 1669.96] Jesus, our glory and our power. -[1669.96 --> 1675.96] We adore You, behold You, our Savior ever true. -[1675.96 --> 1677.96] O Jesus, we lift our hands. -[1677.96 --> 1678.96] O Jesus, we lift our hands. -[1678.96 --> 1684.96] Turn your eyes to the morning, and see Christ the Lion away. -[1684.96 --> 1696.96] Turn your eyes to the morning, and see Christ the Lion away. -[1696.96 --> 1698.96] Lord, we lift our hands. -[1698.96 --> 1709.96] What a glorious long fear of death is come, for we carry His life in our grave. -[1709.96 --> 1711.96] Jesus, we lift our hands. -[1711.96 --> 1715.96] Jesus, we lift our hands. -[1715.96 --> 1721.96] Jesus, we lift our hands. -[1721.96 --> 1724.96] Jesus, we lift our hands up before it is 끝까지. -[1724.96 --> 1725.96] We lift our hands. -[1725.96 --> 1727.96] Jesus, our glory and our crown. -[1727.96 --> 1730.96] We adore You, behold You, Savior ever true. -[1730.96 --> 1750.44] Turn your eyes to the heavens, our King will return for His own. -[1750.44 --> 1762.12] Every knee will bow, every crown will shout, all glory to Jesus alone. -[1764.08 --> 1774.90] Jesus, you will lift our hearts. Jesus, our glory and our love. -[1774.90 --> 1780.66] We adore You, behold You, our Savior ever. -[1782.02 --> 1786.28] Oh, Jesus, we turn our eyes to You. -[1787.86 --> 1792.52] Oh, Jesus, we turn our eyes to You. -[1804.90 --> 1813.06] Oh, wow. All right, kids. -[1813.46 --> 1814.76] Come on up to the front. -[1815.52 --> 1816.72] Come on up here. -[1817.80 --> 1818.86] Join me up here. -[1818.98 --> 1819.82] Sit down. -[1820.34 --> 1821.62] Come from all over. -[1821.94 --> 1822.88] Here we go. -[1826.02 --> 1827.88] How is everyone doing this morning? -[1827.88 --> 1827.98] Good. -[1831.28 --> 1832.86] One of you is good. -[1834.90 --> 1837.18] How is everyone this morning? -[1838.58 --> 1838.98] Good. -[1839.10 --> 1842.90] I have a friend with me, but he's having a nap in the pew over there. -[1843.06 --> 1845.94] And in order for him to come out here, you guys are going to have to say, -[1846.34 --> 1847.44] Come on out, Hank. -[1847.64 --> 1848.76] And then he might join us. -[1848.76 --> 1849.16] Are you ready? -[1849.54 --> 1850.32] Can you say it together? -[1850.72 --> 1851.32] And go. -[1851.32 --> 1853.32] Come on, Hank. -[1853.32 --> 1862.10] Hi, everyone. -[1865.10 --> 1866.50] They're quiet today. -[1866.64 --> 1867.68] They're very quiet today. -[1868.18 --> 1869.52] Hi, everyone. -[1870.00 --> 1870.64] Hi. -[1871.64 --> 1874.12] Hank, guess what we're going to talk about today in children's worship time? -[1874.44 --> 1874.72] What? -[1874.72 --> 1877.64] We're going to talk about our rescuer. -[1877.94 --> 1880.16] Oh, I was rescued. -[1880.54 --> 1881.02] You were? -[1881.44 --> 1881.78] Yeah. -[1881.88 --> 1883.74] It's my origin story. -[1884.24 --> 1885.62] Your origin story? -[1886.06 --> 1886.56] Yeah. -[1887.26 --> 1888.70] Should we, could you tell it for us? -[1888.76 --> 1890.32] Should we hear Hank's origin story? -[1890.80 --> 1891.14] Yeah. -[1891.26 --> 1891.56] Yeah? -[1891.56 --> 1892.52] Where he came from? -[1893.24 --> 1894.96] It's an exciting story. -[1894.96 --> 1899.48] I lived in an attic for a long time. -[1899.88 --> 1907.54] And then one day, someone put me in a bag with a bunch of old shirts and some books and I think a hammock. -[1908.04 --> 1913.38] And I ended up at the Mission Thrift Store. -[1913.86 --> 1915.92] The Mission Thrift Store. -[1916.20 --> 1916.68] Yeah. -[1916.84 --> 1918.74] It was a beautiful place. -[1918.74 --> 1927.26] But I was only there for a day when a nice lady bought me and brought me here and gave me to you. -[1927.68 --> 1928.12] Me? -[1928.58 --> 1929.02] Yeah. -[1929.78 --> 1932.88] And so, I live here now on top of your fridge. -[1933.08 --> 1933.74] That's true. -[1934.30 --> 1938.24] So that lady rescued me from the store. -[1938.80 --> 1939.10] Huh. -[1939.80 --> 1941.16] I never really thought of it that way. -[1941.42 --> 1942.62] That's kind of true, isn't it? -[1943.14 --> 1944.40] Was he rescued from the store? -[1945.42 --> 1946.16] Yeah, kind of. -[1946.46 --> 1947.04] Well, guess what? -[1947.04 --> 1951.76] We're going to talk about an even better rescue mission today in Sunday school or in children's worship time. -[1951.98 --> 1952.68] Isn't that exciting? -[1952.94 --> 1954.34] That does sound exciting. -[1954.96 --> 1956.36] So, I'm going to pray. -[1956.90 --> 1959.06] And then we're going to run off to children's worship time. -[1959.36 --> 1959.72] Slowly. -[1963.72 --> 1964.16] Slowly. -[1965.16 --> 1966.44] I'm watching you. -[1968.00 --> 1970.28] And then we'll go enjoy ourselves in children's worship time, okay? -[1970.42 --> 1971.48] So, before we do that, let's pray. -[1971.62 --> 1972.22] Can we bow our heads? -[1972.30 --> 1972.76] Hold our hands? -[1973.22 --> 1973.58] Here we go. -[1973.58 --> 1974.84] Dear God, thank you so much for this day. -[1974.84 --> 1979.26] Thank you that we could come to church this morning and that we could learn more about you in children's worship time. -[1979.30 --> 1983.70] And we pray for all the grown-ups who are going to learn more about you here in church today, too. -[1984.34 --> 1987.20] Help us glorify you in the way we do that today. -[1987.26 --> 1987.74] In your name. -[1988.14 --> 1988.34] Amen. -[1988.68 --> 1989.08] All right. -[1989.16 --> 1989.72] Stand up. -[1989.76 --> 1990.76] It's time to do the blessing. -[1991.62 --> 1992.68] You too, church. -[1993.58 --> 1993.98] All right. -[1994.02 --> 1996.64] We're going to say, the Lord be with you at the same time. -[1996.66 --> 1997.10] Are you ready? -[1997.10 --> 1997.16] Ready? -[1997.80 --> 1999.12] One, two, three. -[1999.12 --> 2001.42] The Lord be with you. -[2001.56 --> 2003.24] And also with you. -[2003.24 --> 2004.68] All right. -[2004.68 --> 2004.96] All right. -[2004.96 --> 2023.10] Good morning. -[2023.10 --> 2023.14] Good morning. -[2023.72 --> 2024.44] My name is Darrell. -[2024.50 --> 2025.86] I'm one of the elders here at Emmanuel. -[2026.92 --> 2031.16] Before I go into our congregational prayer, I just wanted to share a bit of an experience this week. -[2032.00 --> 2037.30] We've talked as elders in meetings and such about stretching, about God stretching us in our faith. -[2037.50 --> 2039.34] And it's been an interesting week for me. -[2039.42 --> 2044.24] I've had a couple of encounters where people have just randomly come up to me and said, -[2044.52 --> 2045.18] Are you a Christian? -[2046.00 --> 2049.42] And we've had some really good faith-stretching conversations. -[2049.78 --> 2052.98] And it's helped me to delve more into the word. -[2053.74 --> 2056.22] And then I find out that I'm on congregational prayer. -[2056.46 --> 2059.10] And so that's also something that stretches me as well. -[2059.10 --> 2064.62] And so I just encourage everyone to look for opportunities where God might be stretching you this week. -[2065.22 --> 2067.38] Let's go to God in our church family prayer. -[2069.08 --> 2072.82] Heavenly Father, we come before you today to worship and glorify you. -[2073.44 --> 2076.98] Thank you for everyone here and online as we gather together in your name. -[2077.88 --> 2084.06] We know and thank you for being a gracious God that accepts us for who we are and where we are in our journey. -[2084.06 --> 2091.06] Please guide us in our lives each day to discover your will and the tasks that you have set out for us. -[2091.52 --> 2094.02] Give us your spirit to strengthen us in our daily lives. -[2095.06 --> 2100.00] We pray for the cadet and the youth campouts coming up this coming weekend. -[2100.88 --> 2108.46] And as our ministries wind down for the year, Lord, we are deeply thankful for all the leaders and volunteers who have faithfully given their time and energy. -[2108.46 --> 2113.96] Their dedication and service have been a tremendous blessing to our church family. -[2114.38 --> 2117.02] We ask that you bless them abundantly for their efforts. -[2117.88 --> 2121.60] We take great joy in your word, Lord, as in 2 Corinthians 6. -[2122.12 --> 2125.54] As God's co-workers, we urge you not to receive God's grace in vain. -[2126.18 --> 2128.86] For he says, in the time of my favor, I heard you. -[2129.34 --> 2131.36] In the day of salvation, I helped you. -[2131.70 --> 2133.76] I tell you, now is the time of God's favor. -[2134.22 --> 2135.54] Now is the day of salvation. -[2135.54 --> 2140.00] Lord, we also lift up the upcoming meetings of classes and synod. -[2140.42 --> 2141.52] These gatherings are critical. -[2142.18 --> 2144.84] And we pray for wisdom, discernment, and unity. -[2145.48 --> 2148.66] And significant conversations and decisions are made. -[2149.40 --> 2153.06] We especially pray for Pastor Chris, who will serve as a delegate for synod this year. -[2153.76 --> 2160.10] Grant him clarity, courage, and guidance as he represents our congregation and seeks to honor you in all discussions. -[2160.10 --> 2165.94] As we approach this long weekend, we ask for your protection over those that will be traveling. -[2166.20 --> 2167.36] Keep them safe on the roads. -[2167.76 --> 2171.34] And may they find rest and joy in their journeys and time spent with loved ones. -[2172.18 --> 2176.68] Lastly, we thank you for those that accepted nominations for the offices of Elder and Deacon. -[2176.68 --> 2182.92] As we continue the process to affirm these names, we seek your divine guidance and wisdom in this process. -[2183.48 --> 2187.90] Asking that you make it clear your will for this congregation and council of this church. -[2188.56 --> 2196.10] We also pray for future elders and deacons, Lord, that you may make it clear to them if this is a calling and a will for them to serve. -[2196.68 --> 2201.30] We thank you, Lord, for hearing our prayers and for your constant presence in our lives. -[2201.72 --> 2203.84] We entrust all these matters into your loving hands. -[2204.54 --> 2205.56] In Jesus' name we pray. -[2205.56 --> 2206.42] Amen. -[2206.68 --> 2207.68] Amen. -[2223.68 --> 2233.90] We're going to continue our worship by looking at two passages this morning from scriptures. -[2233.90 --> 2247.98] In the sort of liturgical movements of the church this season, we've been living in the Gospel of Matthew for the story and then stretching that out for our understanding of what that story means. -[2247.98 --> 2258.82] And so on Pentecost this morning, we're going to read from Matthew 28, 16 to 20, and then from Acts 2, 36 to 41. -[2260.10 --> 2264.62] I encourage you to have that open in front of you and a Bible in your hands. -[2264.62 --> 2265.62] It should be on the Bible. -[2265.62 --> 2266.62] It should be on the Bible. -[2266.62 --> 2267.62] It should be on the Bible. -[2267.62 --> 2268.80] It should be on the screen behind me, at least the first time we go through it. -[2269.58 --> 2270.54] Let's read together. -[2272.46 --> 2273.62] From Matthew 28. -[2273.62 --> 2280.28] Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. -[2281.08 --> 2283.90] When they saw him, they worshipped him, but some doubted. -[2284.40 --> 2286.42] Then Jesus came to them and said, -[2286.42 --> 2290.68] All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. -[2291.34 --> 2299.46] Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, -[2299.74 --> 2303.52] and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. -[2304.02 --> 2309.62] And surely I am with you always to the very end of the age. -[2309.62 --> 2317.40] And then from Acts 2, we'll start at verse 36. -[2319.22 --> 2327.38] Just to get us to that point, Jackie read for us already the story of the Holy Spirit coming in to the disciples -[2327.38 --> 2332.90] as they gathered in that upper room in Jerusalem and descending upon them in tongues of fire. -[2333.56 --> 2339.58] After that, they went out and they started preaching to the people who were gathered there for the Jewish festival. -[2339.62 --> 2346.76] And everyone heard the disciples in their own language, in the country that they came from, -[2346.82 --> 2349.22] the region that they came from, in the language of that area. -[2349.34 --> 2350.92] And they were amazed. -[2351.48 --> 2353.44] And then Peter begins preaching. -[2354.48 --> 2362.56] And he preaches to them the history of redemption culminating in the person and work of Jesus Christ. -[2362.56 --> 2366.26] And so he says to them in verse 36, -[2366.26 --> 2371.06] Therefore, let all Israel be assured of this. -[2371.66 --> 2377.52] God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah. -[2378.80 --> 2382.68] When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart. -[2383.72 --> 2385.72] And said to Peter and the other apostles, -[2385.98 --> 2387.24] Brothers, what shall we do? -[2387.24 --> 2389.34] Peter replied, -[2389.34 --> 2389.36] Peter replied, -[2389.56 --> 2392.48] Repent and be baptized, every one of you, -[2392.72 --> 2395.82] in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, -[2395.98 --> 2399.24] and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. -[2399.58 --> 2403.78] The promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, -[2403.84 --> 2406.30] for all whom the Lord our God will call. -[2407.80 --> 2411.28] With many other words, he warned them and he pleaded with them, -[2411.90 --> 2415.04] Save yourselves from this corrupt generation. -[2415.04 --> 2418.12] Those who accepted his message were baptized, -[2418.76 --> 2422.42] and about 3,000 were added to their number that day. -[2423.14 --> 2424.60] This is the word of the Lord. -[2430.28 --> 2434.92] So whenever we come into the season of Pentecost, -[2435.44 --> 2441.42] at least in the areas of my life and the circles that I travel in, -[2441.50 --> 2442.88] the conversations that I have, -[2442.88 --> 2451.02] we always come to the idea or to the question of what is and who is, -[2451.52 --> 2455.22] what is the work of the Holy Spirit and who is the Holy Spirit? -[2455.32 --> 2458.28] What does it mean to be in the Spirit? -[2459.80 --> 2468.04] Now part of that conversation and question takes a particular form in today's world -[2468.04 --> 2469.96] and in our cultural context. -[2469.96 --> 2476.56] Because it's not uncommon to hear people talk about being spiritual, -[2477.76 --> 2479.66] whatever that means, right? -[2479.76 --> 2485.94] Because that's an intentionally nebulous kind of language -[2485.94 --> 2491.28] for people increasingly not connected to church -[2491.28 --> 2494.48] or to faith in a traditional sense, -[2494.48 --> 2497.92] but they feel connected to the earth -[2497.92 --> 2502.88] or connected to something or someone in some way. -[2503.54 --> 2506.52] They say, I'm not religious, but I'm spiritual. -[2508.26 --> 2510.26] And when we use that kind of language, -[2510.26 --> 2518.58] I think that we are intentionally muddying the waters -[2518.58 --> 2521.24] about what it means to be in the Spirit, -[2521.86 --> 2524.56] in part because we don't know -[2524.56 --> 2528.26] and in part because we're not sure we want to know. -[2529.26 --> 2531.52] I think also, one of the other ways, -[2531.52 --> 2534.92] maybe on the other side of the spectrum of this conversation, -[2535.62 --> 2537.68] especially at this time, -[2537.82 --> 2541.80] Christians will talk about being Spirit-filled, right? -[2541.84 --> 2544.90] And being Spirit-filled has a particular connotation -[2544.90 --> 2547.36] and a particular meaning to us as well. -[2547.76 --> 2551.56] And in some places, that means dancing in the aisles. -[2551.82 --> 2553.50] Clearly, that's not what it means here. -[2554.12 --> 2556.98] In some places, it means speaking in tongues -[2556.98 --> 2558.88] or offering prophecy. -[2560.32 --> 2562.58] That's less so, I think, what it means here, -[2562.68 --> 2564.58] although we have heard some and seen things. -[2564.68 --> 2566.32] Let's not mistake those realities. -[2569.42 --> 2571.06] But the question, then, -[2571.12 --> 2573.68] of what it means to be Spirit-filled -[2573.68 --> 2577.54] usually ends up kind of circling -[2577.54 --> 2580.74] around a sort of experience -[2580.74 --> 2584.26] or an idea of an experience, -[2584.26 --> 2587.44] a particularly emotionally laden one -[2587.44 --> 2588.42] and heavy one. -[2589.14 --> 2592.18] And unless we have that kind of experience, -[2593.38 --> 2596.56] we conclude we're not Spirit-filled. -[2597.00 --> 2599.78] Or at least we're not as filled as we could be. -[2601.18 --> 2602.94] What I want to suggest this morning, -[2603.36 --> 2605.00] based on the text that we read -[2605.00 --> 2606.96] and what we know and see in the Bible, -[2607.56 --> 2612.08] is that being spiritual isn't enough -[2612.08 --> 2614.26] and being Spirit-filled -[2614.26 --> 2619.26] isn't about a particular experience -[2619.26 --> 2621.52] or not an emotive, -[2621.66 --> 2624.56] sort of expressive kind of experience. -[2624.62 --> 2625.66] It might include that, -[2625.76 --> 2627.58] but it's not starting there. -[2627.70 --> 2628.30] And to do that, -[2628.36 --> 2629.32] what I would like to do -[2629.32 --> 2631.60] is to look very closely, -[2631.76 --> 2633.20] and if you have your printed sheets, -[2633.30 --> 2635.64] you'll see the title of this sermon -[2635.64 --> 2638.04] is that the work of the Holy Spirit -[2638.04 --> 2640.60] equals the mission of the church. -[2640.60 --> 2643.14] So I want to suggest -[2643.14 --> 2645.98] that as we hold out these two ideas -[2645.98 --> 2647.82] and compare them to one another, -[2648.04 --> 2650.14] we'll begin to see something, -[2650.62 --> 2652.34] I hope, very clearly -[2652.34 --> 2653.90] and very compelling. -[2655.48 --> 2657.08] And so the big idea, -[2657.24 --> 2658.08] as you can see on the screen, -[2658.18 --> 2659.92] is that the mission of the church -[2659.92 --> 2663.74] equals the work of the Holy Spirit. -[2664.30 --> 2665.74] Or, I'll put it another way, -[2665.82 --> 2666.38] more explicitly, -[2666.38 --> 2668.80] the work of the Holy Spirit -[2668.80 --> 2672.08] is the mission of the church. -[2674.48 --> 2676.32] And what I hope we'll see this morning -[2676.32 --> 2677.56] is that this isn't just -[2677.56 --> 2679.72] some abstract theological point -[2679.72 --> 2681.62] made by a pastor -[2681.62 --> 2682.82] with a university degree -[2682.82 --> 2683.78] and a master's degree. -[2684.04 --> 2686.76] This isn't just some rhetorical truism -[2686.76 --> 2688.72] hoping to stir something in you. -[2688.98 --> 2690.08] Instead, what I hope -[2690.08 --> 2691.14] that we will begin to see -[2691.14 --> 2693.38] is just how vital -[2693.38 --> 2696.04] this truth is -[2696.04 --> 2697.46] for the life of the church. -[2699.00 --> 2700.04] When I use the word vital, -[2700.48 --> 2703.18] I mean integral to our existence. -[2704.26 --> 2704.48] Right? -[2704.56 --> 2705.96] Giving us life. -[2708.10 --> 2708.60] Right? -[2708.66 --> 2709.40] For what you do, -[2710.02 --> 2711.10] for who you are, -[2711.52 --> 2714.14] for how you show up in the world, -[2714.44 --> 2715.34] how we live, -[2715.64 --> 2717.16] how we move through -[2717.16 --> 2719.30] this time and this space. -[2721.18 --> 2722.24] Now, to get there, -[2723.00 --> 2723.68] we're going to spend -[2723.68 --> 2725.32] a little bit of time -[2725.32 --> 2726.80] on both sides -[2726.80 --> 2728.56] of this equation -[2728.56 --> 2731.08] in order to make the most sense -[2731.08 --> 2732.86] of what the work -[2732.86 --> 2734.24] of the Holy Spirit is -[2734.24 --> 2735.48] and then what the mission -[2735.48 --> 2737.10] of the church is. -[2738.52 --> 2738.84] And so, -[2739.30 --> 2740.90] dig into this with me -[2740.90 --> 2741.78] for a moment -[2741.78 --> 2742.30] and then -[2742.30 --> 2744.50] when we pull this together, -[2744.64 --> 2745.46] I hope you will see -[2745.46 --> 2747.12] what I see here. -[2748.16 --> 2749.58] The Holy Spirit -[2749.58 --> 2750.76] works -[2750.76 --> 2752.14] to make union -[2752.14 --> 2753.56] with Jesus possible -[2753.56 --> 2755.22] through faith -[2755.22 --> 2756.92] and to grow -[2756.92 --> 2757.54] the faith -[2757.54 --> 2758.90] of those who already believe -[2758.90 --> 2760.26] in order -[2760.26 --> 2761.62] to make much -[2761.62 --> 2762.52] of the person -[2762.52 --> 2763.44] and work of Jesus. -[2764.30 --> 2764.48] And so, -[2764.56 --> 2765.98] this is on the one side -[2765.98 --> 2767.14] of the equation, -[2767.24 --> 2768.22] the work of the Holy Spirit. -[2768.40 --> 2769.66] The work of the Holy Spirit -[2769.66 --> 2770.90] is to make union -[2770.90 --> 2772.18] with Jesus possible -[2772.18 --> 2773.04] through faith -[2773.04 --> 2774.20] to grow faith -[2774.20 --> 2775.50] in those who already believe -[2775.50 --> 2777.18] in order to make much -[2777.18 --> 2777.96] of the work -[2777.96 --> 2779.54] of Jesus. -[2780.24 --> 2780.46] So, -[2780.52 --> 2781.24] in that sentence, -[2781.48 --> 2783.02] you hear three things, -[2783.10 --> 2783.28] right? -[2783.60 --> 2785.02] The union with Christ -[2785.02 --> 2785.76] through faith, -[2786.26 --> 2787.96] maturing our union -[2787.96 --> 2788.96] with Christ -[2788.96 --> 2789.60] through faith, -[2789.66 --> 2790.80] and then the third one, -[2790.96 --> 2792.58] exalting in the person -[2792.58 --> 2793.12] and work -[2793.12 --> 2794.04] of Jesus. -[2794.04 --> 2794.22] Jesus. -[2795.04 --> 2797.90] I heard someone -[2797.90 --> 2798.84] this week -[2798.84 --> 2800.64] say that the -[2800.64 --> 2801.76] greatest -[2801.76 --> 2803.74] doctrinal teaching -[2803.74 --> 2805.32] that is lacking -[2805.32 --> 2806.88] in the Christian church -[2806.88 --> 2807.32] today, -[2807.54 --> 2807.90] primarily -[2807.90 --> 2809.48] in the Western -[2809.48 --> 2810.20] church, -[2810.42 --> 2811.50] is the doctrine -[2811.50 --> 2812.56] of the union -[2812.56 --> 2813.50] with Christ. -[2813.50 --> 2813.54] Christ. -[2814.84 --> 2815.04] Right? -[2815.08 --> 2815.98] The idea that you -[2815.98 --> 2817.04] are not your own, -[2817.12 --> 2817.98] but you belong, -[2818.28 --> 2818.94] body and soul -[2818.94 --> 2819.90] and life and in death, -[2820.06 --> 2820.76] to Jesus. -[2820.94 --> 2821.72] The idea that -[2821.72 --> 2823.04] because of grace -[2823.04 --> 2823.74] through faith, -[2823.88 --> 2825.26] you have been united -[2825.26 --> 2826.40] with Christ -[2826.40 --> 2827.16] in his life -[2827.16 --> 2827.96] and in his death -[2827.96 --> 2828.88] and in his resurrection -[2828.88 --> 2830.46] and in his exaltation. -[2830.82 --> 2831.76] The idea that -[2831.76 --> 2832.84] this union -[2832.84 --> 2833.62] with Christ -[2833.62 --> 2835.00] is indivisible -[2835.00 --> 2836.94] and indissoluble. -[2836.94 --> 2837.46] That is, -[2837.50 --> 2838.34] you can't separate -[2838.34 --> 2839.04] from him -[2839.04 --> 2839.94] and your union -[2839.94 --> 2840.32] with him -[2840.32 --> 2841.46] cannot be destroyed. -[2841.46 --> 2844.42] These ideas -[2844.42 --> 2846.02] fundamentally -[2846.02 --> 2848.20] change everything -[2848.20 --> 2850.64] about your reality. -[2852.32 --> 2854.02] And this is the work -[2854.02 --> 2854.86] of the Holy Spirit. -[2856.58 --> 2857.82] It starts -[2857.82 --> 2858.92] in your heart. -[2859.06 --> 2859.64] It starts -[2859.64 --> 2860.86] with the seat -[2860.86 --> 2862.40] of your affections. -[2863.30 --> 2864.18] Notice what we read -[2864.18 --> 2865.00] in Acts 2 -[2865.00 --> 2869.20] in verse 37. -[2869.32 --> 2869.90] When the people -[2869.90 --> 2870.74] heard this, -[2870.74 --> 2871.60] they were cut -[2871.60 --> 2873.70] to the heart. -[2875.40 --> 2875.88] What we begin -[2875.88 --> 2877.00] to see here -[2877.00 --> 2877.50] is that -[2877.50 --> 2878.42] the work -[2878.42 --> 2879.38] of the Holy Spirit -[2879.38 --> 2880.30] is not just -[2880.30 --> 2880.90] displayed -[2880.90 --> 2882.12] in the tongues -[2882.12 --> 2883.76] of every nation -[2883.76 --> 2884.24] present. -[2884.64 --> 2885.20] In fact, -[2885.34 --> 2886.60] the greater miracle, -[2886.80 --> 2887.54] the greater work -[2887.54 --> 2888.44] of the Holy Spirit -[2888.44 --> 2889.64] is the piercing -[2889.64 --> 2890.78] of hearts -[2890.78 --> 2891.96] with conviction -[2891.96 --> 2893.48] and with faith. -[2895.00 --> 2895.92] We heard earlier -[2895.92 --> 2897.04] in worship -[2897.04 --> 2899.24] that are hearts -[2899.24 --> 2900.28] of stone, -[2900.62 --> 2901.72] that turning hearts -[2901.72 --> 2902.38] of stone -[2902.38 --> 2903.22] into hearts -[2903.22 --> 2903.90] of flesh, -[2904.32 --> 2905.08] that this granting -[2905.08 --> 2906.32] of new life -[2906.32 --> 2908.68] is the Spirit's work. -[2909.26 --> 2910.06] It's how dead -[2910.06 --> 2911.26] in sin bodies -[2911.26 --> 2912.24] are raised -[2912.24 --> 2913.34] by the blowing -[2913.34 --> 2914.88] in of new life -[2914.88 --> 2915.94] breathed on you -[2915.94 --> 2916.92] by the Holy Spirit. -[2917.98 --> 2918.78] And so the act -[2918.78 --> 2919.44] of faith -[2919.44 --> 2920.42] and of believing -[2920.42 --> 2921.90] and so being -[2921.90 --> 2923.24] united to Jesus -[2923.24 --> 2924.82] is a gift, -[2925.20 --> 2926.10] is a working -[2926.10 --> 2927.20] in you -[2927.20 --> 2928.96] of the Holy Spirit. -[2930.28 --> 2931.70] Romans 8, 15 -[2931.70 --> 2932.06] says, -[2932.56 --> 2933.42] the Spirit you received -[2934.00 --> 2934.82] brought about -[2934.82 --> 2935.66] your adoption -[2935.66 --> 2936.76] to sonship. -[2937.76 --> 2938.48] Romans 10 -[2938.48 --> 2939.64] tells us that belief -[2939.64 --> 2940.90] comes by hearing -[2940.90 --> 2942.00] and specifically -[2942.00 --> 2943.24] by hearing the Word, -[2943.36 --> 2944.42] by hearing the Gospel. -[2944.98 --> 2945.42] And so, -[2945.64 --> 2946.44] what the Holy Spirit -[2946.44 --> 2947.16] does is -[2947.16 --> 2948.54] takes the Gospel, -[2948.72 --> 2949.50] takes the Word -[2949.50 --> 2950.10] of God -[2950.10 --> 2951.06] and makes it -[2951.06 --> 2951.90] effective -[2951.90 --> 2953.42] in your hearts, -[2953.80 --> 2954.74] transforming it -[2954.74 --> 2955.22] from a heart -[2955.22 --> 2955.86] of stone -[2955.86 --> 2956.64] to a heart -[2956.64 --> 2957.16] of flesh. -[2957.70 --> 2958.80] And then by believing -[2958.80 --> 2959.82] the Word, -[2960.00 --> 2960.98] we take hold -[2960.98 --> 2961.72] of Christ. -[2963.16 --> 2964.10] But that believing -[2964.10 --> 2965.96] is only made possible, -[2966.18 --> 2967.10] only made effective -[2967.10 --> 2968.40] because of the -[2968.40 --> 2969.70] previous work -[2969.70 --> 2970.82] of the Holy Spirit -[2970.82 --> 2972.10] in your heart, -[2972.46 --> 2973.34] on your heart, -[2973.44 --> 2974.66] making it new. -[2977.06 --> 2978.86] There's a 16th century -[2978.86 --> 2980.02] theologian and pastor, -[2980.74 --> 2981.86] his name is John Calvin, -[2982.40 --> 2983.48] he's sort of -[2983.48 --> 2983.96] the father -[2983.96 --> 2985.12] of the Reformed tradition -[2985.12 --> 2986.32] that we find ourselves in, -[2986.62 --> 2987.96] and he says explicitly, -[2989.02 --> 2990.48] without the illumination -[2990.48 --> 2991.36] of the Holy Spirit, -[2991.46 --> 2993.18] the Word has no effect. -[2994.84 --> 2995.24] In fact, -[2995.32 --> 2996.14] he goes on to use -[2996.14 --> 2996.54] what I think -[2996.54 --> 2997.42] is a really compelling -[2997.42 --> 2998.72] word picture. -[2998.98 --> 2999.46] He says, -[2999.46 --> 3001.22] until our minds -[3001.22 --> 3001.78] are intent -[3001.78 --> 3002.52] on the Spirit, -[3002.74 --> 3004.46] Christ is in a manner -[3004.46 --> 3005.48] unemployed -[3005.48 --> 3007.56] because we view -[3007.56 --> 3008.56] him coldly -[3008.56 --> 3009.52] without us, -[3009.78 --> 3010.82] outside of us, -[3010.88 --> 3011.64] at a distance -[3011.64 --> 3012.28] from us. -[3012.56 --> 3013.68] It is by the Spirit -[3013.68 --> 3014.32] alone -[3014.32 --> 3015.46] that he unites -[3015.46 --> 3015.94] us -[3015.94 --> 3017.08] to himself. -[3018.80 --> 3019.80] The point here -[3019.80 --> 3020.30] is that -[3020.30 --> 3021.48] it's only by -[3021.48 --> 3022.34] the inner working -[3022.34 --> 3023.38] of the Holy Spirit -[3023.38 --> 3024.50] that Christ's message -[3024.50 --> 3025.20] of salvation -[3025.20 --> 3026.40] becomes real, -[3026.52 --> 3027.38] becomes effective -[3027.38 --> 3028.36] for you. -[3028.96 --> 3029.36] And in fact, -[3029.48 --> 3030.20] experientially, -[3030.28 --> 3031.14] I think all of you -[3031.14 --> 3031.72] know this. -[3032.76 --> 3032.96] Right? -[3033.00 --> 3033.82] You know that this is true -[3033.82 --> 3034.98] because if you've ever -[3034.98 --> 3037.12] talked with a person -[3037.12 --> 3038.50] who is not Christian -[3038.50 --> 3040.64] and had them read -[3040.64 --> 3041.12] the Bible -[3041.12 --> 3042.22] or quoted a Bible -[3042.22 --> 3042.94] verse to them -[3042.94 --> 3045.20] and nothing happens, -[3046.38 --> 3047.22] right, -[3047.24 --> 3047.84] you're not surprised -[3047.84 --> 3048.36] by that. -[3048.76 --> 3050.04] Because if all it took -[3050.04 --> 3051.62] was hearing the gospel -[3051.62 --> 3052.72] in order for someone -[3052.72 --> 3053.44] to believe, -[3053.78 --> 3054.66] then the preachers -[3054.66 --> 3055.40] that are on street -[3055.40 --> 3056.40] corners around the world -[3056.40 --> 3057.70] would be much more -[3057.70 --> 3058.48] effective than they -[3058.48 --> 3059.16] currently are. -[3060.44 --> 3061.50] Now, that's not to say -[3061.50 --> 3062.28] that the Spirit -[3062.28 --> 3063.34] can't use those street -[3063.34 --> 3064.14] preachers on corners -[3064.14 --> 3064.72] around the world. -[3064.82 --> 3065.74] He can and he does -[3065.74 --> 3066.58] and incredible things -[3066.58 --> 3067.66] have happened in those -[3067.66 --> 3068.74] moments and those places. -[3069.36 --> 3070.60] But it's only when -[3070.60 --> 3071.56] the Spirit makes -[3071.56 --> 3072.62] the word effective -[3072.62 --> 3074.44] that our hearts of stone -[3074.44 --> 3075.60] are transformed -[3075.60 --> 3077.08] into hearts of flesh. -[3077.36 --> 3078.66] This is the principal -[3078.66 --> 3080.40] work of the Holy Spirit. -[3080.66 --> 3081.36] It's the working -[3081.36 --> 3082.66] and growing of faith -[3082.66 --> 3083.54] in the life -[3083.54 --> 3084.42] of the believer -[3084.42 --> 3087.16] and that is the means -[3087.16 --> 3088.40] of our union -[3088.40 --> 3089.72] with Christ. -[3092.00 --> 3093.52] And then so connected -[3093.52 --> 3094.14] to that -[3094.14 --> 3095.82] and working out -[3095.82 --> 3096.40] of that -[3096.40 --> 3098.00] is the idea -[3098.00 --> 3099.26] that the work -[3099.26 --> 3100.34] of the Holy Spirit -[3100.34 --> 3101.48] then includes -[3101.48 --> 3102.92] the maturing, -[3103.46 --> 3104.24] the growing -[3104.24 --> 3106.00] of our union -[3106.00 --> 3106.74] with Christ -[3106.74 --> 3107.52] through faith. -[3108.70 --> 3109.24] Right, not only -[3109.24 --> 3109.72] is the work -[3109.72 --> 3110.52] of the Holy Spirit -[3110.52 --> 3111.32] the beginning -[3111.32 --> 3112.30] of our union -[3112.30 --> 3112.98] with Christ, -[3113.06 --> 3114.12] it is the ongoing -[3114.12 --> 3115.50] work of the Holy Spirit -[3115.50 --> 3117.56] that transforms us -[3117.56 --> 3118.54] into the image -[3118.54 --> 3119.14] of Christ -[3119.14 --> 3120.42] through faith. -[3122.04 --> 3122.70] Right, and it keeps -[3122.70 --> 3124.02] stacking these realities. -[3124.18 --> 3125.32] If faith in the word -[3125.32 --> 3126.42] is the means -[3126.42 --> 3127.46] of our union -[3127.46 --> 3128.20] with Christ -[3128.20 --> 3129.32] then growing -[3129.32 --> 3130.30] in the word -[3130.30 --> 3131.28] is the means -[3131.28 --> 3132.02] of our growing -[3132.02 --> 3132.82] with Christ. -[3133.94 --> 3134.72] Now maybe that -[3134.72 --> 3135.54] doesn't sound exciting -[3135.54 --> 3135.92] to you, -[3135.98 --> 3136.58] maybe that doesn't -[3136.58 --> 3137.70] sound flashy -[3137.70 --> 3138.50] and cool -[3138.50 --> 3139.38] and yet there's -[3139.38 --> 3140.10] something beautiful -[3140.10 --> 3141.32] about its consistency. -[3142.36 --> 3143.24] Right, the means -[3143.24 --> 3144.34] of our maturing -[3144.34 --> 3145.08] of our growing -[3145.08 --> 3145.58] in faith -[3145.58 --> 3146.58] are the ordinary -[3146.58 --> 3147.68] means of grace -[3147.68 --> 3149.32] of being in the word -[3149.32 --> 3150.08] and of worshipping -[3150.08 --> 3151.36] receiving the sacraments -[3151.36 --> 3151.74] together. -[3153.26 --> 3154.10] In fact, the scriptures -[3154.10 --> 3155.70] invite us -[3155.70 --> 3156.90] into this truth -[3156.90 --> 3158.04] by calling us -[3158.04 --> 3158.92] to protect -[3158.92 --> 3159.82] the word -[3159.82 --> 3160.56] and to cling -[3160.56 --> 3161.98] to it fastidiously. -[3162.42 --> 3162.80] Right, Paul -[3162.80 --> 3163.80] says to Timothy -[3163.80 --> 3164.96] a leader -[3164.96 --> 3165.78] that he is training -[3165.78 --> 3167.00] he says guard -[3167.00 --> 3168.04] the good deposit -[3168.04 --> 3168.90] that was entrusted -[3168.90 --> 3169.48] to you -[3169.48 --> 3170.50] guard it -[3170.50 --> 3171.14] with the help -[3171.14 --> 3172.22] of the Holy Spirit -[3172.22 --> 3173.90] who lives in us. -[3175.30 --> 3176.02] Right, as we are -[3176.02 --> 3176.48] transformed -[3176.48 --> 3177.26] by the work -[3177.26 --> 3178.12] of the Holy Spirit -[3178.12 --> 3178.86] through the word -[3178.86 --> 3180.14] working on us -[3180.14 --> 3181.66] we begin to see -[3181.66 --> 3182.54] the fruit -[3182.54 --> 3183.60] of the Holy Spirit -[3183.60 --> 3184.82] in our lives -[3184.82 --> 3185.82] and Lord willing -[3185.82 --> 3187.20] in ever increasing -[3187.20 --> 3187.72] measure. -[3189.00 --> 3189.86] Right, Galatians 5 -[3189.86 --> 3190.70] says the fruit -[3190.70 --> 3191.46] of the Spirit -[3191.46 --> 3192.08] is love, -[3192.46 --> 3192.78] joy, -[3193.06 --> 3193.44] peace, -[3193.74 --> 3194.20] patience, -[3194.50 --> 3194.88] kindness, -[3195.38 --> 3195.72] goodness, -[3195.78 --> 3196.68] faithfulness, -[3196.84 --> 3197.40] gentleness -[3197.40 --> 3198.80] and self-control. -[3200.20 --> 3200.94] Right, it is the -[3200.94 --> 3202.70] ongoing power -[3202.70 --> 3204.06] of the Holy Spirit -[3204.06 --> 3205.18] in us -[3205.18 --> 3206.74] that enables us -[3206.74 --> 3207.90] to put off -[3207.90 --> 3208.82] the old self -[3208.82 --> 3209.78] and all the sin -[3209.78 --> 3210.88] that so easily -[3210.88 --> 3211.50] entangles -[3211.50 --> 3212.32] and to put on -[3212.32 --> 3213.18] the new self. -[3213.50 --> 3214.26] Right, we put on -[3214.26 --> 3214.82] Christ -[3214.82 --> 3216.08] in this union. -[3218.42 --> 3219.56] One of the reasons -[3219.56 --> 3221.38] why the doctrine -[3221.38 --> 3222.12] of the union -[3222.12 --> 3222.74] with Christ -[3222.74 --> 3223.80] is so important -[3223.80 --> 3225.18] and why understanding -[3225.18 --> 3225.72] the work -[3225.72 --> 3226.54] of the Holy Spirit -[3226.54 --> 3227.86] to make that real -[3227.86 --> 3229.24] is so critical -[3229.24 --> 3230.36] to our being -[3230.36 --> 3230.90] in the world -[3230.90 --> 3231.76] is exactly -[3231.76 --> 3233.18] this point. -[3233.94 --> 3234.30] Right, because -[3234.30 --> 3235.78] the kind of life -[3235.78 --> 3237.24] that Jesus calls us -[3237.24 --> 3238.26] to, the kind -[3238.26 --> 3238.92] of holiness -[3238.92 --> 3239.68] that we are -[3239.68 --> 3241.18] recreated for -[3241.18 --> 3242.22] is impossible -[3242.22 --> 3244.04] without the Holy Spirit, -[3244.52 --> 3245.42] without our union -[3245.42 --> 3245.98] to Jesus. -[3245.98 --> 3246.12] Jesus. -[3247.54 --> 3248.14] And so, -[3248.60 --> 3250.18] what ends up -[3250.18 --> 3250.60] happening -[3250.60 --> 3252.88] for many of us -[3252.88 --> 3255.32] is that we just -[3255.32 --> 3255.86] give up -[3255.86 --> 3257.48] on trying. -[3259.70 --> 3260.40] Right, we have -[3260.40 --> 3261.22] become passive -[3261.22 --> 3262.66] in our struggles -[3262.66 --> 3263.66] against sin. -[3264.90 --> 3265.72] Right, we've become -[3265.72 --> 3266.48] apathetic -[3266.48 --> 3267.22] to the kinds -[3267.22 --> 3267.76] of things -[3267.76 --> 3268.58] that the Bible -[3268.58 --> 3269.48] calls contrary -[3269.48 --> 3270.30] to nature, -[3270.30 --> 3271.20] that is not -[3271.20 --> 3271.70] in the way -[3271.70 --> 3272.10] that God -[3272.10 --> 3272.58] designed you -[3272.58 --> 3273.02] to live. -[3274.60 --> 3275.18] And I really -[3275.18 --> 3275.92] believe that -[3275.92 --> 3277.20] it is in large -[3277.20 --> 3278.22] part because -[3278.22 --> 3280.00] so many of us -[3280.00 --> 3281.56] don't actually -[3281.56 --> 3282.68] believe in the -[3282.68 --> 3283.62] power of the -[3283.62 --> 3284.00] Spirit -[3284.00 --> 3285.36] to unite us -[3285.36 --> 3286.02] with Christ. -[3288.22 --> 3289.18] But this is the -[3289.18 --> 3289.70] good news of the -[3289.70 --> 3290.10] gospel. -[3291.36 --> 3291.88] Right, yes, -[3292.00 --> 3292.50] and amen, -[3292.66 --> 3293.50] God saves us -[3293.50 --> 3294.28] from our sin -[3294.28 --> 3295.12] by the life, -[3295.12 --> 3295.46] death, -[3295.62 --> 3296.02] resurrection, -[3296.18 --> 3296.88] and exaltation -[3296.88 --> 3297.42] of Jesus. -[3298.20 --> 3299.38] But there's more -[3299.38 --> 3300.20] and amen -[3300.20 --> 3300.88] to that. -[3302.20 --> 3302.80] Right, God -[3302.80 --> 3303.70] doesn't just -[3303.70 --> 3304.96] leave us there -[3304.96 --> 3305.96] to figure it out -[3305.96 --> 3306.58] on our own -[3306.58 --> 3307.28] after he's -[3307.28 --> 3308.28] united us -[3308.28 --> 3308.74] to Christ. -[3308.82 --> 3309.52] Not only does he -[3309.52 --> 3310.74] save us from our sin, -[3311.00 --> 3311.94] he saves us -[3311.94 --> 3313.10] for a life -[3313.10 --> 3313.62] lived, -[3313.98 --> 3314.84] an abundant, -[3315.48 --> 3316.48] deep relationship -[3316.48 --> 3317.06] to him. -[3317.32 --> 3318.12] He saves us -[3318.12 --> 3318.80] for a life -[3318.80 --> 3319.50] of gratitude. -[3319.70 --> 3320.38] He saves us -[3320.38 --> 3321.26] for a life -[3321.26 --> 3321.90] of holiness -[3321.90 --> 3322.76] and righteousness. -[3323.28 --> 3324.02] This is -[3324.02 --> 3325.86] what he originally -[3325.86 --> 3326.72] designed and -[3326.72 --> 3327.68] intended for humans -[3327.68 --> 3328.78] to live as image -[3328.78 --> 3329.64] bearers of God, -[3329.90 --> 3330.64] having dominion -[3330.64 --> 3331.44] over the creation, -[3331.64 --> 3332.94] ruling with him. -[3334.20 --> 3335.16] And he saves us -[3335.16 --> 3335.84] for a life -[3335.84 --> 3336.92] lived in -[3336.92 --> 3337.70] and by -[3337.70 --> 3338.48] and through -[3338.48 --> 3339.30] the power -[3339.30 --> 3340.84] of the Holy Spirit. -[3342.46 --> 3343.40] And he grows -[3343.40 --> 3344.30] you into -[3344.30 --> 3345.62] this image -[3345.62 --> 3346.16] to be -[3346.16 --> 3347.02] like him. -[3348.24 --> 3349.02] The gospel -[3349.02 --> 3350.20] is the -[3350.20 --> 3351.34] power of God -[3351.34 --> 3352.50] unto salvation -[3352.50 --> 3353.78] and the -[3353.78 --> 3354.54] power of God -[3354.54 --> 3356.00] unto sanctification. -[3357.24 --> 3357.74] This is the -[3357.74 --> 3358.50] ongoing work -[3358.50 --> 3359.80] of the Holy Spirit. -[3360.78 --> 3360.96] Now, -[3361.88 --> 3362.86] my own -[3362.86 --> 3364.44] personal testimony -[3364.44 --> 3365.88] is God -[3365.88 --> 3366.54] overcoming -[3366.54 --> 3367.14] some pretty -[3367.14 --> 3368.08] serious sins -[3368.08 --> 3369.20] in my life -[3369.20 --> 3369.70] at different -[3369.70 --> 3370.34] and significant -[3370.34 --> 3370.96] points -[3370.96 --> 3371.86] throughout it. -[3371.90 --> 3372.28] And if you want -[3372.28 --> 3372.84] to talk to me -[3372.84 --> 3373.64] about that privately, -[3373.76 --> 3374.44] I'm happy to share -[3374.44 --> 3375.36] that story with you. -[3375.66 --> 3376.42] The stage probably -[3376.42 --> 3377.08] isn't the place -[3377.08 --> 3378.36] for most of that. -[3379.06 --> 3379.86] But the point -[3379.86 --> 3380.80] that I want to make -[3380.80 --> 3381.26] and the point -[3381.26 --> 3382.26] that I hope you hear -[3382.26 --> 3383.82] that based on -[3383.82 --> 3384.68] the truth of -[3384.68 --> 3385.38] God's own -[3385.38 --> 3386.30] word to us -[3386.30 --> 3387.30] and based on -[3387.30 --> 3388.30] my own lived -[3388.30 --> 3389.90] experience of it, -[3389.96 --> 3390.56] I can say -[3390.56 --> 3391.32] with confidence -[3391.32 --> 3393.06] that he can do it. -[3394.14 --> 3395.10] That he can -[3395.10 --> 3396.18] transform you. -[3397.82 --> 3398.46] And that he can -[3398.46 --> 3398.86] overcome -[3398.86 --> 3400.08] the sin -[3400.08 --> 3400.80] and the darkness -[3400.80 --> 3402.24] and the deep -[3402.24 --> 3403.54] despair in your life. -[3403.62 --> 3404.52] He can do it. -[3404.98 --> 3406.26] And if he can do it -[3406.26 --> 3407.16] and you are united -[3407.16 --> 3407.72] to him, -[3407.92 --> 3408.90] hear this very clearly, -[3408.90 --> 3409.96] that means you -[3409.96 --> 3410.62] can do it -[3410.62 --> 3411.14] with him. -[3412.42 --> 3413.44] That he can do it -[3413.44 --> 3414.00] in you -[3414.00 --> 3415.06] and for you -[3415.06 --> 3415.92] with the power -[3415.92 --> 3416.82] of the Holy Spirit. -[3417.08 --> 3418.22] You are not left -[3418.22 --> 3419.58] to your own devices. -[3420.12 --> 3421.08] You are a device -[3421.08 --> 3421.64] of God. -[3428.84 --> 3430.24] This is what it means -[3430.24 --> 3432.22] to have a spirit-filled -[3432.22 --> 3433.40] life. -[3433.40 --> 3438.68] Which brings me -[3438.68 --> 3440.32] to the third point -[3440.32 --> 3440.74] on the work -[3440.74 --> 3441.50] of the Holy Spirit. -[3442.78 --> 3444.16] Seeing all of this -[3444.16 --> 3446.12] makes me -[3446.12 --> 3446.96] want to -[3446.96 --> 3447.46] worship -[3447.46 --> 3448.90] Jesus. -[3450.04 --> 3451.04] Seeing what he -[3451.04 --> 3452.14] is able to do -[3452.14 --> 3452.92] and what he -[3452.92 --> 3453.80] has accomplished -[3453.80 --> 3455.14] makes me want -[3455.14 --> 3455.74] to sing -[3455.74 --> 3456.92] his praises. -[3457.12 --> 3457.74] And that too -[3457.74 --> 3458.66] is the work -[3458.66 --> 3459.72] of the Holy Spirit -[3459.72 --> 3461.02] to make much -[3461.02 --> 3462.14] of Jesus. -[3463.32 --> 3464.22] Jesus himself -[3464.22 --> 3465.46] says in John 15, -[3465.64 --> 3466.36] 26, -[3466.48 --> 3467.20] when the advocate -[3467.20 --> 3467.74] comes, -[3467.86 --> 3468.94] whom I will send -[3468.94 --> 3470.00] you from the Father, -[3470.36 --> 3471.48] the Spirit of truth -[3471.48 --> 3472.12] who goes out -[3472.12 --> 3472.78] from the Father, -[3472.94 --> 3474.20] he will testify -[3474.20 --> 3475.94] about me. -[3477.30 --> 3478.04] The Holy Spirit's -[3478.04 --> 3479.14] work is to -[3479.14 --> 3480.36] testify about -[3480.36 --> 3480.70] Jesus, -[3480.82 --> 3481.96] to exalt him. -[3482.32 --> 3483.08] Jesus continues -[3483.08 --> 3483.88] in John 16, -[3484.20 --> 3484.78] but when he, -[3484.94 --> 3485.84] the Spirit of truth, -[3485.94 --> 3486.22] comes, -[3486.34 --> 3487.32] he will guide you -[3487.32 --> 3488.58] into all truth. -[3489.30 --> 3490.08] He will not speak -[3490.08 --> 3490.70] on his own. -[3490.70 --> 3491.24] He will speak -[3491.24 --> 3492.12] only what he hears -[3492.12 --> 3492.86] and he will tell you -[3492.86 --> 3493.72] what is yet to come. -[3494.02 --> 3495.76] He will glorify me -[3495.76 --> 3497.00] because it is from me -[3497.00 --> 3497.90] that he will receive -[3497.90 --> 3498.84] what he will make -[3498.84 --> 3499.60] known to you. -[3501.56 --> 3503.18] Since the principal -[3503.18 --> 3504.44] act and work -[3504.44 --> 3505.64] of the Holy Spirit -[3505.64 --> 3506.84] is to make union -[3506.84 --> 3507.70] with Christ -[3507.70 --> 3509.30] by faith possible, -[3509.58 --> 3510.80] then the ultimate -[3510.80 --> 3512.40] act of the Holy Spirit -[3512.40 --> 3514.54] is to take those -[3514.54 --> 3515.00] who are then -[3515.00 --> 3516.32] united to Christ -[3516.32 --> 3517.44] and to make them -[3517.44 --> 3518.86] into worshippers -[3518.86 --> 3518.98] the purpose -[3518.98 --> 3520.48] of Christ. -[3522.02 --> 3522.90] The Holy Spirit's -[3522.90 --> 3523.78] role is to make -[3523.78 --> 3524.90] much of Jesus -[3524.90 --> 3526.10] in our midst -[3526.10 --> 3526.92] and so the life -[3526.92 --> 3527.64] of the believer -[3527.64 --> 3528.98] filled with the Holy Spirit -[3528.98 --> 3530.42] is to make much -[3530.42 --> 3531.22] of Jesus -[3531.22 --> 3532.80] in our midst. -[3535.40 --> 3536.88] And so now we shift -[3536.88 --> 3538.98] to the other side -[3538.98 --> 3540.60] of the equation. -[3540.60 --> 3543.96] the work of the Holy Spirit -[3543.96 --> 3545.50] equals the mission -[3545.50 --> 3546.52] of the church. -[3546.66 --> 3547.58] I want to suggest -[3547.58 --> 3548.96] to you that the mission -[3548.96 --> 3550.30] of the church -[3550.30 --> 3552.98] is worship. -[3554.98 --> 3556.74] The church exists -[3556.74 --> 3558.44] as the bride of Christ -[3558.44 --> 3559.32] to exalt -[3559.32 --> 3560.76] our bridegroom. -[3560.98 --> 3562.18] The mission of the church -[3562.18 --> 3563.64] is to worship. -[3563.64 --> 3566.24] John Piper -[3566.24 --> 3567.74] has said that -[3567.74 --> 3568.44] missions -[3568.44 --> 3569.54] exist -[3569.54 --> 3570.64] where worship -[3570.64 --> 3571.60] doesn't. -[3572.86 --> 3573.76] I want you to notice -[3573.76 --> 3574.00] there -[3574.00 --> 3575.48] I've used two words -[3575.48 --> 3576.30] the mission -[3576.30 --> 3577.30] of the church -[3577.30 --> 3579.06] is to worship God -[3579.06 --> 3580.22] and missions -[3580.22 --> 3581.86] exist -[3581.86 --> 3583.46] where worship -[3583.46 --> 3583.80] doesn't. -[3583.94 --> 3584.34] Missions -[3584.34 --> 3585.32] with an S -[3585.32 --> 3586.18] is the act -[3586.18 --> 3587.52] of going out -[3587.52 --> 3587.84] right? -[3587.92 --> 3588.58] It's the act -[3588.58 --> 3590.18] of proclaiming -[3590.18 --> 3590.82] the truth -[3590.82 --> 3591.68] of the gospel -[3591.68 --> 3592.88] into those places -[3592.88 --> 3594.70] where it is not known. -[3595.32 --> 3595.74] Missions -[3595.74 --> 3596.66] that is the act -[3596.66 --> 3597.12] of going -[3597.12 --> 3598.06] the act of sending -[3598.06 --> 3598.84] the act of -[3598.84 --> 3600.36] being missionaries -[3600.36 --> 3600.80] to which -[3600.80 --> 3602.36] which is a vocation -[3602.36 --> 3603.32] we are all called to. -[3603.58 --> 3604.04] Missions -[3604.04 --> 3606.96] is what we do -[3606.96 --> 3608.18] because the mission -[3608.18 --> 3609.66] of the church -[3609.66 --> 3610.62] is to worship -[3610.62 --> 3611.72] God. -[3613.22 --> 3614.04] And in this -[3614.04 --> 3614.70] the mission -[3614.70 --> 3615.28] of the church -[3615.28 --> 3616.78] then is to make -[3616.78 --> 3617.86] worshipers -[3617.86 --> 3619.06] where there is none. -[3620.00 --> 3621.34] To make worshipers -[3621.34 --> 3622.62] where there are few -[3622.62 --> 3624.16] and to make deeper -[3624.16 --> 3624.94] worshipers -[3624.94 --> 3625.84] of us all. -[3627.14 --> 3627.54] So again -[3627.54 --> 3628.60] there are three things -[3628.60 --> 3629.16] here. -[3629.28 --> 3630.20] To make worshipers -[3630.20 --> 3630.90] where there are none -[3630.90 --> 3631.42] to make -[3631.42 --> 3632.56] worshipers -[3632.56 --> 3633.34] where there are few -[3633.34 --> 3634.30] and to make deeper -[3634.30 --> 3635.02] worshipers -[3635.02 --> 3636.02] of us all. -[3636.10 --> 3636.48] And again -[3636.48 --> 3638.62] we're stacking -[3638.62 --> 3639.74] these realities -[3639.74 --> 3640.84] because both sides -[3640.84 --> 3641.50] of the equation -[3641.50 --> 3642.46] are equal -[3642.46 --> 3643.20] and I believe -[3643.20 --> 3643.94] this is true -[3643.94 --> 3645.10] because as scripture -[3645.10 --> 3645.62] says -[3645.62 --> 3646.26] salvation -[3646.26 --> 3647.36] and election -[3647.36 --> 3648.32] happens -[3648.32 --> 3649.84] for us -[3649.84 --> 3651.14] our union -[3651.14 --> 3651.98] with Christ -[3651.98 --> 3652.76] occurs -[3652.76 --> 3653.98] so that we -[3653.98 --> 3654.82] as it says -[3654.82 --> 3656.02] in Ephesians 1.12 -[3656.02 --> 3657.50] might be for the -[3657.50 --> 3658.86] praise of his -[3658.86 --> 3659.62] glory. -[3660.84 --> 3661.70] Or as Peter -[3661.70 --> 3663.08] says in 1 Peter 2.9 -[3663.08 --> 3663.72] that we might -[3663.72 --> 3664.76] declare the praises -[3664.76 --> 3665.26] of him -[3665.26 --> 3666.48] who called us -[3666.48 --> 3667.18] out of darkness -[3667.18 --> 3668.12] into his -[3668.12 --> 3668.94] wonderful light. -[3669.56 --> 3670.18] Or Isaiah -[3670.18 --> 3671.06] the greatest -[3671.06 --> 3671.74] Old Testament -[3671.74 --> 3672.40] prophet -[3672.40 --> 3672.90] or one of the -[3672.90 --> 3673.58] great Old Testament -[3673.58 --> 3674.12] prophets -[3674.12 --> 3675.26] foretells -[3675.26 --> 3675.96] of a time -[3675.96 --> 3676.68] when sons -[3676.68 --> 3677.34] from afar -[3677.34 --> 3677.92] and daughters -[3677.92 --> 3678.56] from the ends -[3678.56 --> 3679.02] of the earth -[3679.02 --> 3679.80] everyone -[3679.80 --> 3680.44] who's called -[3680.44 --> 3681.22] by my name -[3681.22 --> 3682.22] whom I created -[3682.22 --> 3683.14] for my glory -[3683.14 --> 3684.16] whom I formed -[3684.16 --> 3684.62] and made. -[3684.68 --> 3685.52] He tells us there -[3685.52 --> 3686.50] that the goal -[3686.50 --> 3687.80] of all of it -[3687.80 --> 3689.34] is the glory -[3689.34 --> 3690.00] of God -[3690.00 --> 3691.00] of glorifying -[3691.00 --> 3691.76] God -[3691.76 --> 3692.20] and in fact -[3692.20 --> 3693.16] in Isaiah 53 -[3693.16 --> 3694.56] further down -[3694.56 --> 3695.08] he says -[3695.08 --> 3696.06] that the reason -[3696.06 --> 3697.40] God made people -[3697.40 --> 3698.30] is so that we -[3698.30 --> 3699.14] might proclaim -[3699.14 --> 3700.22] his praise -[3700.22 --> 3701.74] and this truth -[3701.74 --> 3702.58] fits into the -[3702.58 --> 3703.06] bigger theme -[3703.06 --> 3703.54] of the Bible -[3703.54 --> 3704.14] which runs -[3704.14 --> 3705.06] from the very -[3705.06 --> 3705.44] beginning -[3705.44 --> 3706.06] to the very -[3706.06 --> 3706.46] end -[3706.46 --> 3707.38] which is -[3707.38 --> 3708.10] summarized -[3708.10 --> 3708.58] perfectly -[3708.58 --> 3709.54] in Psalm 19 -[3709.54 --> 3710.76] that all -[3710.76 --> 3711.46] creation -[3711.46 --> 3712.92] is singing -[3712.92 --> 3714.00] that right now -[3714.00 --> 3714.64] the heavens -[3714.64 --> 3715.34] are declaring -[3715.34 --> 3715.90] the glory -[3715.90 --> 3716.52] of God -[3716.52 --> 3717.42] the skies -[3717.42 --> 3717.98] proclaim -[3717.98 --> 3718.46] the work -[3718.46 --> 3719.12] of his hands -[3719.12 --> 3720.96] Psalm 148 -[3720.96 --> 3721.76] Psalm 96 -[3721.76 --> 3722.58] all of these -[3722.58 --> 3723.12] declare -[3723.12 --> 3723.98] that all -[3723.98 --> 3724.68] of creation -[3724.68 --> 3725.44] exists -[3725.44 --> 3726.94] to praise -[3726.94 --> 3727.56] God -[3727.56 --> 3728.12] to sing -[3728.12 --> 3729.38] his praises -[3729.38 --> 3729.92] and so -[3729.92 --> 3730.72] the mission -[3730.72 --> 3731.78] of the church -[3731.78 --> 3733.42] is to make -[3733.42 --> 3734.10] us worshippers -[3734.10 --> 3735.92] is to make -[3735.92 --> 3736.50] worshippers -[3736.50 --> 3736.88] where there -[3736.88 --> 3737.38] are none -[3737.38 --> 3739.00] and that's -[3739.00 --> 3739.38] why when -[3739.38 --> 3739.72] Jesus -[3739.72 --> 3741.40] says in -[3741.40 --> 3742.16] Matthew 29 -[3742.16 --> 3743.06] therefore go -[3743.06 --> 3743.86] and make -[3743.86 --> 3744.32] disciples -[3744.32 --> 3744.88] where does -[3744.88 --> 3745.28] he send -[3745.28 --> 3745.48] them -[3745.48 --> 3747.44] to all -[3747.44 --> 3748.04] nations -[3748.04 --> 3749.88] to those -[3749.88 --> 3750.52] places where -[3750.52 --> 3750.94] there are -[3750.94 --> 3751.26] no -[3751.26 --> 3752.06] worshippers -[3752.06 --> 3752.48] that's why -[3752.48 --> 3753.02] in Acts -[3753.02 --> 3753.76] 1 verse -[3753.76 --> 3754.08] 8 -[3754.08 --> 3754.58] right -[3754.58 --> 3754.90] Jesus -[3754.90 --> 3755.56] says to -[3755.56 --> 3755.72] his -[3755.72 --> 3756.14] disciples -[3756.14 --> 3756.50] before -[3756.50 --> 3756.86] he is -[3756.86 --> 3757.30] ascended -[3757.30 --> 3757.94] you will -[3757.94 --> 3758.26] be my -[3758.26 --> 3758.64] witnesses -[3758.64 --> 3759.38] in Jerusalem -[3759.38 --> 3759.80] and in -[3759.80 --> 3760.18] Judea -[3760.18 --> 3760.58] and all -[3760.58 --> 3761.06] Samaria -[3761.06 --> 3762.02] and to -[3762.02 --> 3762.78] the ends -[3762.78 --> 3763.36] of the -[3763.36 --> 3763.76] earth -[3763.76 --> 3765.56] right -[3765.56 --> 3765.72] we don't -[3765.72 --> 3766.04] have time -[3766.04 --> 3766.30] to go -[3766.30 --> 3766.48] through -[3766.48 --> 3767.12] every instance -[3767.12 --> 3767.40] in the -[3767.40 --> 3767.70] bible -[3767.70 --> 3768.24] and so -[3768.24 --> 3768.48] maybe -[3768.48 --> 3768.84] you can -[3768.84 --> 3769.22] trust me -[3769.22 --> 3769.54] on this -[3769.54 --> 3769.78] but if -[3769.78 --> 3770.00] you want -[3770.00 --> 3770.28] to wrestle -[3770.28 --> 3770.60] with it -[3770.60 --> 3770.92] then let's -[3770.92 --> 3771.24] do it -[3771.24 --> 3771.76] but from -[3771.76 --> 3772.20] the very -[3772.20 --> 3772.62] beginning -[3772.62 --> 3772.96] right -[3772.96 --> 3773.42] God's -[3773.42 --> 3774.00] purpose -[3774.00 --> 3774.78] was to -[3774.78 --> 3775.32] make sure -[3775.32 --> 3775.82] that all -[3775.82 --> 3776.28] people -[3776.28 --> 3777.20] everywhere -[3777.20 --> 3777.88] people from -[3777.88 --> 3778.66] every tribe -[3778.66 --> 3779.28] tongue -[3779.28 --> 3780.08] and nation -[3780.08 --> 3780.98] might -[3780.98 --> 3781.86] worship -[3781.86 --> 3782.50] him -[3782.50 --> 3782.90] we might -[3782.90 --> 3783.12] have -[3783.12 --> 3783.92] worshippers -[3783.92 --> 3784.58] from all -[3784.58 --> 3785.20] over -[3785.20 --> 3786.10] creation -[3786.10 --> 3786.90] through all -[3786.90 --> 3787.66] of time -[3787.66 --> 3788.40] and history -[3788.40 --> 3790.10] the mission -[3790.10 --> 3790.42] of the -[3790.42 --> 3790.74] church -[3790.74 --> 3791.64] by proclaiming -[3791.64 --> 3792.14] the gospel -[3792.14 --> 3793.08] and inviting -[3793.08 --> 3793.74] people into -[3793.74 --> 3794.50] union with -[3794.50 --> 3794.88] Christ -[3794.88 --> 3795.32] through the -[3795.32 --> 3795.60] work of -[3795.60 --> 3795.88] the Holy -[3795.88 --> 3796.18] Spirit -[3796.18 --> 3797.02] is to -[3797.02 --> 3797.42] make -[3797.42 --> 3798.52] worshippers -[3798.52 --> 3799.12] is to -[3799.12 --> 3799.58] join -[3799.58 --> 3800.28] with the -[3800.28 --> 3800.84] Holy Spirit -[3800.84 --> 3801.40] in making -[3801.40 --> 3801.88] much -[3801.88 --> 3802.66] of -[3802.66 --> 3803.36] Jesus -[3803.36 --> 3806.14] and this -[3806.14 --> 3806.68] continues -[3806.68 --> 3808.10] in the -[3808.10 --> 3808.42] mission of -[3808.42 --> 3809.00] the church -[3809.00 --> 3810.46] being to -[3810.46 --> 3810.78] make -[3810.78 --> 3811.70] worshippers -[3811.70 --> 3812.24] where there -[3812.24 --> 3812.82] are few -[3812.82 --> 3814.58] and immediately -[3814.58 --> 3815.16] after the -[3815.16 --> 3816.22] text that -[3816.22 --> 3816.68] we read -[3816.68 --> 3818.32] in Acts -[3818.32 --> 3818.98] chapter 2 -[3818.98 --> 3819.82] verse 42 -[3819.82 --> 3820.38] and then in -[3820.38 --> 3820.88] 47 -[3820.88 --> 3822.46] we read -[3822.46 --> 3823.14] they devoted -[3823.14 --> 3823.98] themselves to -[3823.98 --> 3824.50] the apostles -[3824.50 --> 3825.36] teaching and -[3825.36 --> 3825.88] to fellowship -[3825.88 --> 3826.40] and to the -[3826.40 --> 3826.88] breaking of -[3826.88 --> 3827.42] bread and -[3827.42 --> 3827.90] to prayer -[3827.90 --> 3828.36] and then at -[3828.36 --> 3828.66] the end -[3828.66 --> 3828.94] there in -[3828.94 --> 3829.58] verse 47 -[3829.58 --> 3829.96] and the -[3829.96 --> 3830.76] Lord added -[3830.76 --> 3831.22] to their -[3831.22 --> 3831.54] number -[3831.54 --> 3832.14] daily -[3832.14 --> 3833.18] those who -[3833.18 --> 3833.58] were being -[3833.58 --> 3834.08] saved -[3834.08 --> 3835.94] did you -[3835.94 --> 3836.40] notice -[3836.40 --> 3837.66] right -[3837.66 --> 3838.20] it's in -[3838.20 --> 3838.86] the ordinary -[3838.86 --> 3839.66] means -[3839.66 --> 3840.38] in the -[3840.38 --> 3840.86] regular -[3840.86 --> 3841.68] movement -[3841.68 --> 3842.08] of the -[3842.08 --> 3842.40] life -[3842.40 --> 3842.74] and the -[3842.74 --> 3843.02] work -[3843.02 --> 3843.36] of the -[3843.36 --> 3843.76] church -[3843.76 --> 3844.10] that the -[3844.10 --> 3844.72] Holy Spirit -[3844.72 --> 3845.64] has already -[3845.64 --> 3846.24] used to -[3846.24 --> 3847.02] create union -[3847.02 --> 3847.70] with Christ -[3847.70 --> 3848.26] that he -[3848.26 --> 3848.96] now uses -[3848.96 --> 3849.84] to grow -[3849.84 --> 3850.96] the church -[3850.96 --> 3852.36] right -[3852.36 --> 3853.04] to include -[3853.04 --> 3853.62] others -[3853.62 --> 3854.62] into that -[3854.62 --> 3855.44] union -[3855.44 --> 3857.28] to join -[3857.28 --> 3857.88] with him -[3857.88 --> 3859.28] the Lord -[3859.28 --> 3860.24] added to -[3860.24 --> 3860.82] their number -[3860.82 --> 3861.60] daily -[3861.60 --> 3862.08] and so -[3862.08 --> 3862.58] you don't -[3862.58 --> 3863.16] need flashy -[3863.16 --> 3863.76] strategies -[3863.76 --> 3864.40] or smoke -[3864.40 --> 3864.80] machines -[3864.80 --> 3865.18] you don't -[3865.18 --> 3865.92] need light -[3865.92 --> 3866.38] shows -[3866.38 --> 3866.80] right -[3866.80 --> 3867.14] you don't -[3867.14 --> 3867.66] need social -[3867.66 --> 3868.02] media -[3868.02 --> 3868.74] campaigns -[3868.74 --> 3869.22] right -[3869.22 --> 3869.52] you don't -[3869.52 --> 3870.02] need any -[3870.02 --> 3870.40] of those -[3870.40 --> 3870.58] things -[3870.58 --> 3870.80] and I'm -[3870.80 --> 3872.10] not denying -[3872.10 --> 3872.54] that those -[3872.54 --> 3872.98] things might -[3872.98 --> 3873.34] have some -[3873.34 --> 3873.70] effect -[3873.70 --> 3874.12] and maybe -[3874.12 --> 3874.48] in your -[3874.48 --> 3874.88] context -[3874.88 --> 3875.38] those things -[3875.38 --> 3876.18] are a little -[3876.18 --> 3877.32] bit important -[3877.32 --> 3877.72] but they're -[3877.72 --> 3878.10] not as -[3878.10 --> 3878.46] important -[3878.46 --> 3879.00] as you -[3879.00 --> 3879.44] might -[3879.44 --> 3880.00] think -[3880.00 --> 3881.46] right -[3881.46 --> 3881.78] whatever -[3881.78 --> 3882.48] comes next -[3882.48 --> 3882.78] in the -[3882.78 --> 3883.00] church -[3883.00 --> 3883.36] growth -[3883.36 --> 3883.80] movement -[3883.80 --> 3885.00] I hope -[3885.00 --> 3885.54] it is a -[3885.54 --> 3885.96] devotion -[3885.96 --> 3886.38] to the -[3886.38 --> 3886.64] teaching -[3886.64 --> 3886.88] of the -[3886.88 --> 3887.28] apostles -[3887.28 --> 3889.32] and I -[3889.32 --> 3889.56] hope -[3889.56 --> 3890.00] it's a -[3890.00 --> 3890.66] commitment -[3890.66 --> 3891.12] to the -[3891.12 --> 3891.54] fellowship -[3891.54 --> 3891.88] and to -[3891.88 --> 3892.26] the breaking -[3892.26 --> 3892.82] of bread -[3892.82 --> 3893.42] and to -[3893.42 --> 3893.74] prayer -[3893.74 --> 3894.82] because that's -[3894.82 --> 3895.06] how the -[3895.06 --> 3895.60] Holy Spirit -[3895.60 --> 3896.16] works -[3896.16 --> 3897.64] right -[3897.64 --> 3898.12] that's -[3898.12 --> 3898.56] what the -[3898.56 --> 3898.88] mission -[3898.88 --> 3899.24] of the -[3899.24 --> 3899.66] church -[3899.66 --> 3900.28] ought to -[3900.28 --> 3901.22] look like -[3901.22 --> 3904.16] and then -[3904.16 --> 3904.58] lastly -[3904.58 --> 3905.74] the mission -[3905.74 --> 3905.96] of the -[3905.96 --> 3906.38] church -[3906.38 --> 3907.42] ought to -[3907.42 --> 3908.78] make deeper -[3908.78 --> 3909.62] worshippers -[3909.62 --> 3910.42] of us -[3910.42 --> 3910.86] all -[3910.86 --> 3915.38] in -[3915.38 --> 3915.82] Ephesians -[3915.82 --> 3916.24] 4 -[3916.24 --> 3917.96] Paul -[3917.96 --> 3920.64] builds -[3920.64 --> 3921.22] on his -[3921.22 --> 3921.66] call -[3921.66 --> 3922.70] the call -[3922.70 --> 3923.06] that was -[3923.06 --> 3924.12] first spoken -[3924.12 --> 3925.90] in Acts -[3925.90 --> 3926.30] 2 -[3926.30 --> 3927.00] to repent -[3927.00 --> 3927.62] and be -[3927.62 --> 3928.16] baptized -[3928.16 --> 3928.84] every one -[3928.84 --> 3929.10] of you -[3929.10 --> 3929.34] in the -[3929.34 --> 3929.70] name of -[3929.70 --> 3929.90] Jesus -[3929.90 --> 3930.28] Christ -[3930.28 --> 3930.58] for the -[3930.58 --> 3930.86] forgiveness -[3930.86 --> 3931.26] of your -[3931.26 --> 3931.54] sins -[3931.54 --> 3932.24] and you -[3932.24 --> 3932.84] will receive -[3932.84 --> 3933.36] the gift -[3933.36 --> 3933.94] of the -[3933.94 --> 3934.48] Holy Spirit -[3934.48 --> 3935.00] the promise -[3935.00 --> 3935.72] is for you -[3935.72 --> 3936.68] and for your -[3936.68 --> 3937.14] children -[3937.14 --> 3937.62] for the -[3937.62 --> 3938.82] next generation -[3938.82 --> 3940.00] to grow -[3940.00 --> 3940.74] into this -[3940.74 --> 3941.02] reality -[3941.02 --> 3941.58] for all -[3941.58 --> 3941.96] who are -[3941.96 --> 3942.56] far off -[3942.56 --> 3943.06] for all -[3943.06 --> 3943.50] whom the -[3943.50 --> 3943.80] Lord -[3943.80 --> 3944.70] our God -[3944.70 --> 3945.56] will call -[3945.56 --> 3947.68] Paul -[3947.68 --> 3948.46] expands on -[3948.46 --> 3948.88] this in -[3948.88 --> 3949.44] Ephesians -[3949.44 --> 3950.70] when he -[3950.70 --> 3951.26] says that -[3951.26 --> 3951.96] Christ -[3951.96 --> 3952.78] himself -[3952.78 --> 3954.02] gave the -[3954.02 --> 3954.48] apostles -[3954.48 --> 3954.90] and the -[3954.90 --> 3955.26] prophets -[3955.26 --> 3956.06] the evangelists -[3956.06 --> 3956.54] the pastors -[3956.54 --> 3956.86] and the -[3956.86 --> 3957.18] teachers -[3957.18 --> 3958.50] to equip -[3958.50 --> 3959.38] his people -[3959.38 --> 3960.02] for works -[3960.02 --> 3960.50] of service -[3960.50 --> 3960.84] that the -[3960.84 --> 3961.16] body -[3961.16 --> 3961.62] may be -[3961.62 --> 3961.88] built -[3961.88 --> 3962.30] up -[3962.30 --> 3963.26] right -[3963.26 --> 3963.48] then he -[3963.48 --> 3963.88] goes on -[3963.88 --> 3964.12] he says -[3964.12 --> 3964.74] by becoming -[3964.74 --> 3965.36] mature -[3965.36 --> 3966.20] attaining -[3966.20 --> 3966.62] to the -[3966.62 --> 3967.06] whole -[3967.06 --> 3967.64] measure -[3967.64 --> 3968.10] of the -[3968.10 --> 3968.42] fullness -[3968.42 --> 3969.04] of Christ -[3969.04 --> 3969.94] no longer -[3969.94 --> 3970.46] infants -[3970.46 --> 3971.08] but growing -[3971.08 --> 3971.84] in every -[3971.84 --> 3972.28] respect -[3972.28 --> 3972.76] to become -[3972.76 --> 3973.30] the mature -[3973.30 --> 3975.32] body -[3975.32 --> 3975.92] of him -[3975.92 --> 3976.68] who is -[3976.68 --> 3977.42] the head -[3977.42 --> 3980.08] and if I -[3980.08 --> 3980.76] can be bold -[3980.76 --> 3981.20] with you -[3981.20 --> 3981.56] one more -[3981.56 --> 3982.06] time -[3982.06 --> 3983.74] too many -[3983.74 --> 3984.42] of us -[3984.42 --> 3986.38] have -[3986.38 --> 3986.78] willingly -[3986.78 --> 3987.32] remained -[3987.32 --> 3988.04] infants -[3988.04 --> 3989.80] in our -[3989.80 --> 3990.10] faith -[3990.10 --> 3992.34] too many -[3992.34 --> 3992.92] of us -[3992.92 --> 3993.40] have -[3993.40 --> 3994.04] gotten -[3994.04 --> 3994.44] used -[3994.44 --> 3995.18] to a -[3995.18 --> 3995.42] diet -[3995.42 --> 3995.80] of -[3995.80 --> 3996.30] milk -[3996.30 --> 3996.74] and have -[3996.74 --> 3997.80] not grown -[3997.80 --> 3998.14] in the -[3998.14 --> 3998.52] power -[3998.52 --> 3999.12] of the -[3999.12 --> 3999.42] spirit -[3999.42 --> 4000.36] not testing -[4000.36 --> 4000.76] him -[4000.76 --> 4001.66] in what -[4001.66 --> 4002.06] he has -[4002.06 --> 4002.48] called -[4002.48 --> 4002.88] us to -[4002.88 --> 4003.14] and in -[4003.14 --> 4003.68] the power -[4003.68 --> 4004.24] that he -[4004.24 --> 4004.78] has granted -[4004.78 --> 4005.20] us to -[4005.20 --> 4005.94] live -[4005.94 --> 4006.56] victorious -[4006.56 --> 4007.40] over sin -[4007.40 --> 4008.48] and struggles -[4008.48 --> 4009.68] and Paul -[4009.68 --> 4010.10] actually -[4010.10 --> 4010.94] in Ephesians -[4010.94 --> 4011.60] he builds -[4011.60 --> 4012.14] on this -[4012.14 --> 4012.62] and he gives -[4012.62 --> 4013.16] a list -[4013.16 --> 4013.70] of ways -[4013.70 --> 4014.14] to be -[4014.14 --> 4014.56] in the -[4014.56 --> 4014.82] world -[4014.82 --> 4015.50] to not -[4015.50 --> 4015.86] live -[4015.86 --> 4016.26] like the -[4016.26 --> 4016.64] rest of -[4016.64 --> 4017.00] the world -[4017.00 --> 4017.64] to put -[4017.64 --> 4018.06] on the -[4018.06 --> 4018.58] new self -[4018.58 --> 4018.88] that is -[4018.88 --> 4019.98] created -[4019.98 --> 4020.58] to be -[4020.58 --> 4021.16] like God -[4021.16 --> 4021.66] in true -[4021.66 --> 4022.22] righteousness -[4022.22 --> 4023.22] and holiness -[4023.22 --> 4023.68] we are -[4023.68 --> 4024.00] called -[4024.00 --> 4024.44] to put -[4024.44 --> 4024.96] off the -[4024.96 --> 4025.30] deeds -[4025.30 --> 4025.92] of darkness -[4025.92 --> 4026.40] and to -[4026.40 --> 4026.70] live -[4026.70 --> 4027.52] as children -[4027.52 --> 4027.84] of the -[4027.84 --> 4028.04] light -[4028.04 --> 4028.66] and then -[4028.66 --> 4028.98] this is -[4028.98 --> 4029.20] what he -[4029.20 --> 4029.44] says -[4029.44 --> 4029.84] this is -[4029.84 --> 4030.28] I think -[4030.28 --> 4030.72] a beautiful -[4030.72 --> 4031.04] way -[4031.04 --> 4032.26] to circle -[4032.26 --> 4032.82] all of -[4032.82 --> 4033.30] these things -[4033.30 --> 4033.68] together -[4033.68 --> 4034.20] he says -[4034.20 --> 4034.66] we are -[4034.66 --> 4035.00] to be -[4035.00 --> 4035.62] so full -[4035.62 --> 4035.96] of the -[4035.96 --> 4036.50] Holy Spirit -[4036.50 --> 4037.08] that we -[4037.08 --> 4037.54] speak -[4037.54 --> 4037.86] to one -[4037.86 --> 4038.08] another -[4038.08 --> 4038.84] in psalms -[4038.84 --> 4039.38] and in -[4039.38 --> 4039.78] hymns -[4039.78 --> 4040.12] and in -[4040.12 --> 4040.46] songs -[4040.46 --> 4040.86] from the -[4040.86 --> 4041.08] Spirit -[4041.08 --> 4042.18] calling us -[4042.18 --> 4042.66] Paul does -[4042.66 --> 4042.92] in those -[4042.92 --> 4043.20] moments -[4043.20 --> 4043.82] to sing -[4043.82 --> 4044.36] and to -[4044.36 --> 4045.04] make music -[4045.04 --> 4045.66] from your -[4045.66 --> 4046.14] heart -[4046.14 --> 4046.78] to the -[4046.78 --> 4047.10] Lord -[4047.10 --> 4049.96] the Holy -[4049.96 --> 4050.42] Spirit -[4050.42 --> 4050.84] the work -[4050.84 --> 4051.10] of the -[4051.10 --> 4051.72] Holy Spirit -[4051.72 --> 4052.48] and the -[4052.48 --> 4052.76] mission -[4052.76 --> 4053.08] of the -[4053.08 --> 4053.44] church -[4053.44 --> 4055.66] is to -[4055.66 --> 4056.26] make us -[4056.26 --> 4057.56] into -[4057.56 --> 4058.44] deeper -[4058.44 --> 4059.86] and deeper -[4059.86 --> 4061.12] worshippers -[4061.12 --> 4062.54] of God -[4062.54 --> 4064.46] the -[4064.46 --> 4064.70] mission -[4064.70 --> 4064.94] of the -[4064.94 --> 4065.18] church -[4065.18 --> 4065.56] is to -[4065.56 --> 4065.72] make -[4065.72 --> 4066.24] worshippers -[4066.24 --> 4066.60] where there -[4066.60 --> 4067.08] is none -[4067.08 --> 4067.66] to make -[4067.66 --> 4068.12] worshippers -[4068.12 --> 4068.44] where there -[4068.44 --> 4068.92] are few -[4068.92 --> 4069.46] and to -[4069.46 --> 4069.94] make deeper -[4069.94 --> 4070.52] worshippers -[4070.52 --> 4071.22] of us -[4071.22 --> 4071.44] all -[4071.44 --> 4071.74] and the -[4071.74 --> 4072.46] Holy Spirit -[4072.46 --> 4073.34] works to -[4073.34 --> 4073.88] make union -[4073.88 --> 4074.40] with Jesus -[4074.40 --> 4074.96] possible -[4074.96 --> 4075.54] through faith -[4075.54 --> 4075.84] and to -[4075.84 --> 4076.64] grow the -[4076.64 --> 4077.04] faith of -[4077.04 --> 4077.40] those who -[4077.40 --> 4077.68] already -[4077.68 --> 4078.04] believe -[4078.04 --> 4078.76] in order -[4078.76 --> 4079.18] that -[4079.18 --> 4080.70] he might -[4080.70 --> 4081.58] make much -[4081.58 --> 4081.98] of the -[4081.98 --> 4082.42] person -[4082.42 --> 4083.28] and work -[4083.28 --> 4083.90] of Jesus -[4083.90 --> 4084.82] in us -[4084.82 --> 4085.46] and through -[4085.46 --> 4085.90] us -[4085.90 --> 4087.30] the mission -[4087.30 --> 4087.64] of the -[4087.64 --> 4087.98] church -[4087.98 --> 4089.16] is the -[4089.16 --> 4089.62] work of -[4089.62 --> 4090.00] the Holy -[4090.00 --> 4090.44] Spirit -[4090.44 --> 4092.34] and so -[4092.34 --> 4093.08] if ever -[4093.08 --> 4094.58] if ever -[4094.58 --> 4095.12] there was -[4095.12 --> 4095.94] a day -[4095.94 --> 4096.48] and a -[4096.48 --> 4096.80] moment -[4096.80 --> 4097.38] for you -[4097.38 --> 4098.08] to leave -[4098.08 --> 4098.80] this place -[4098.80 --> 4099.80] confident -[4099.80 --> 4100.62] in the -[4100.62 --> 4100.90] Lord -[4100.90 --> 4101.50] this is -[4101.50 --> 4101.98] that day -[4101.98 --> 4103.58] if ever -[4103.58 --> 4103.94] there was -[4103.94 --> 4104.42] a moment -[4104.42 --> 4105.14] and a time -[4105.14 --> 4105.56] for you -[4105.56 --> 4106.10] to leave -[4106.10 --> 4106.50] this place -[4106.50 --> 4107.24] full of -[4107.24 --> 4107.60] hope -[4107.60 --> 4108.10] in the -[4108.10 --> 4108.78] possibilities -[4108.78 --> 4109.50] of what -[4109.50 --> 4109.74] God -[4109.74 --> 4110.08] can do -[4110.08 --> 4110.94] this is -[4110.94 --> 4111.72] that day -[4111.72 --> 4113.16] and if -[4113.16 --> 4113.46] ever -[4113.46 --> 4113.90] there was -[4113.90 --> 4114.26] a day -[4114.26 --> 4114.64] for you -[4114.64 --> 4114.98] to hear -[4114.98 --> 4115.44] the call -[4115.44 --> 4115.80] of God -[4115.80 --> 4116.42] to live -[4116.42 --> 4117.40] transformed -[4117.40 --> 4118.96] this is -[4118.96 --> 4119.56] that -[4119.56 --> 4120.18] day -[4120.18 --> 4122.90] go from -[4122.90 --> 4123.52] here -[4123.52 --> 4124.22] in the -[4124.22 --> 4124.92] power -[4124.92 --> 4125.82] of the -[4125.82 --> 4126.10] Holy -[4126.10 --> 4126.50] Spirit -[4126.50 --> 4126.94] because -[4126.94 --> 4127.34] he -[4127.34 --> 4127.82] has -[4127.82 --> 4128.30] united -[4128.30 --> 4128.72] you -[4128.72 --> 4129.34] to -[4129.34 --> 4130.30] Christ -[4130.30 --> 4130.84] amen -[4130.84 --> 4132.56] let's -[4132.56 --> 4132.78] pray -[4132.78 --> 4138.78] Lord -[4138.78 --> 4139.06] Jesus -[4139.06 --> 4139.54] Christ -[4139.54 --> 4139.92] may -[4139.92 --> 4140.28] our -[4140.28 --> 4140.80] union -[4140.80 --> 4141.16] be -[4141.16 --> 4141.68] so -[4141.68 --> 4142.74] strong -[4142.74 --> 4143.20] so -[4143.20 --> 4144.24] powerful -[4144.24 --> 4145.02] so -[4145.02 --> 4145.92] perfect -[4145.92 --> 4147.76] that -[4147.76 --> 4147.94] we -[4147.94 --> 4148.42] know -[4148.42 --> 4149.86] it -[4149.86 --> 4150.14] cannot -[4150.14 --> 4150.40] be -[4150.40 --> 4150.98] dissolved -[4150.98 --> 4151.78] that -[4151.78 --> 4151.92] we -[4151.92 --> 4152.26] know -[4152.26 --> 4152.46] it -[4152.46 --> 4152.68] cannot -[4152.68 --> 4152.92] be -[4152.92 --> 4153.30] broken -[4153.30 --> 4153.96] that -[4153.96 --> 4154.12] we -[4154.12 --> 4154.40] know -[4154.40 --> 4154.62] it -[4154.62 --> 4154.84] cannot -[4154.84 --> 4155.04] be -[4155.04 --> 4155.54] destroyed -[4155.54 --> 4156.48] and -[4156.48 --> 4156.60] in -[4156.60 --> 4156.76] the -[4156.76 --> 4157.34] confidence -[4157.34 --> 4157.82] of -[4157.82 --> 4158.08] that -[4158.08 --> 4158.42] truth -[4158.42 --> 4158.80] by the -[4158.80 --> 4159.22] power -[4159.22 --> 4159.68] of the -[4159.68 --> 4159.90] Holy -[4159.90 --> 4160.20] Spirit -[4160.20 --> 4160.64] may -[4160.64 --> 4160.90] we -[4160.90 --> 4161.20] go -[4161.20 --> 4161.54] from -[4161.54 --> 4161.90] this -[4161.90 --> 4162.38] place -[4162.38 --> 4163.28] so -[4163.28 --> 4164.08] filled -[4164.08 --> 4164.66] with -[4164.66 --> 4165.52] hope -[4165.52 --> 4166.14] and -[4166.14 --> 4167.00] joy -[4167.00 --> 4167.48] that -[4167.48 --> 4167.66] we -[4167.66 --> 4168.08] might -[4168.08 --> 4168.48] live -[4168.48 --> 4169.32] transformed -[4169.32 --> 4169.86] lives -[4169.86 --> 4170.12] in -[4170.12 --> 4170.48] such -[4170.48 --> 4170.64] a -[4170.64 --> 4170.80] way -[4170.80 --> 4171.00] that -[4171.00 --> 4171.16] the -[4171.16 --> 4171.52] world -[4171.52 --> 4171.90] around -[4171.90 --> 4172.22] us -[4172.22 --> 4172.76] cannot -[4172.76 --> 4173.10] make -[4173.10 --> 4173.42] sense -[4173.42 --> 4173.58] of -[4173.58 --> 4173.90] it -[4173.90 --> 4178.74] but -[4178.74 --> 4178.86] that -[4178.86 --> 4178.96] we -[4178.96 --> 4179.16] might -[4179.16 --> 4179.40] enter -[4179.40 --> 4179.62] into -[4179.62 --> 4179.80] that -[4179.80 --> 4180.18] moment -[4180.18 --> 4182.34] and -[4182.34 --> 4182.46] we -[4182.46 --> 4182.64] might -[4182.64 --> 4182.98] say -[4182.98 --> 4183.24] with -[4183.24 --> 4183.52] that -[4183.52 --> 4184.38] Samaritan -[4184.38 --> 4184.72] woman -[4184.72 --> 4185.02] at -[4185.02 --> 4185.14] the -[4185.14 --> 4185.40] well -[4185.40 --> 4186.72] come -[4186.72 --> 4187.12] and -[4187.12 --> 4187.50] see -[4187.50 --> 4188.16] a -[4188.16 --> 4188.56] man -[4188.56 --> 4190.48] who -[4190.48 --> 4190.68] told -[4190.68 --> 4190.84] me -[4190.84 --> 4191.44] everything -[4191.44 --> 4191.86] I -[4191.86 --> 4192.14] ever -[4192.14 --> 4192.52] did -[4192.52 --> 4194.02] and -[4194.02 --> 4194.34] loved -[4194.34 --> 4194.68] me -[4194.68 --> 4197.04] today -[4197.04 --> 4197.36] Lord -[4197.36 --> 4197.68] Jesus -[4197.68 --> 4198.16] send -[4198.16 --> 4198.40] us -[4198.40 --> 4198.62] out -[4198.62 --> 4198.74] in -[4198.74 --> 4198.86] the -[4198.86 --> 4199.14] power -[4199.14 --> 4199.38] of -[4199.38 --> 4199.52] your -[4199.52 --> 4199.86] spirit -[4199.86 --> 4200.10] that -[4200.10 --> 4200.36] we -[4200.36 --> 4200.72] too -[4200.72 --> 4201.10] might -[4201.10 --> 4201.60] declare -[4201.60 --> 4202.40] come -[4202.40 --> 4202.98] and -[4202.98 --> 4203.40] see -[4203.40 --> 4204.16] a -[4204.16 --> 4204.50] man -[4204.50 --> 4205.54] make -[4205.54 --> 4206.10] much -[4206.10 --> 4206.50] of -[4206.50 --> 4207.06] yourself -[4207.06 --> 4207.58] among -[4207.58 --> 4208.04] us -[4208.04 --> 4210.84] that -[4210.84 --> 4211.14] we -[4211.14 --> 4212.14] might -[4212.14 --> 4212.40] sing -[4212.40 --> 4212.58] the -[4212.58 --> 4212.94] glories -[4212.94 --> 4213.14] of -[4213.14 --> 4213.26] your -[4213.26 --> 4213.72] praises -[4213.72 --> 4215.06] to -[4215.06 --> 4215.44] you -[4215.44 --> 4216.52] and -[4216.52 --> 4216.64] to -[4216.64 --> 4216.84] each -[4216.84 --> 4217.14] other -[4217.14 --> 4220.40] hear -[4220.40 --> 4220.64] our -[4220.64 --> 4220.86] hymn -[4220.86 --> 4221.04] of -[4221.04 --> 4221.48] praise -[4221.48 --> 4223.50] oh -[4223.50 --> 4223.68] Lord -[4223.68 --> 4223.94] Jesus -[4223.94 --> 4224.38] Christ -[4224.38 --> 4224.64] we -[4224.64 --> 4224.90] pray -[4224.90 --> 4225.28] in -[4225.28 --> 4225.48] your -[4225.48 --> 4225.84] name -[4225.84 --> 4227.26] amen -[4227.26 --> 4228.80] amen -[4228.80 --> 4231.04] praise -[4231.04 --> 4231.38] that -[4231.38 --> 4235.80] we -[4241.94 --> 4243.64] have -[4243.64 --> 4246.70] us -[4246.70 --> 4247.38] oh -[4247.38 --> 4247.90] God -[4247.90 --> 4248.60] even -[4248.60 --> 4249.30] it -[4249.30 --> 4252.40] the -[4252.40 --> 4252.74] of -[4252.74 --> 4253.28] whom -[4253.28 --> 4253.54] nothing -[4253.54 --> 4258.36] There's nothing worth more -[4258.36 --> 4261.58] That will ever come close -[4261.58 --> 4264.44] No think and compare -[4264.44 --> 4267.94] Your heart and pain -[4267.94 --> 4274.80] Your presence holds -[4274.80 --> 4283.06] I've chased it and seen -[4283.06 --> 4286.70] Of the sweetest of ours -[4286.70 --> 4289.52] Where my heart becomes free -[4289.52 --> 4293.66] And my death is undone -[4293.66 --> 4300.34] Your presence holds -[4300.34 --> 4310.36] Holy Spirit, you are welcome here -[4310.36 --> 4313.38] Come, God, this place -[4313.38 --> 4315.82] And fill the atmosphere -[4315.82 --> 4323.06] Your glory, God, is what our hearts long for -[4323.06 --> 4329.76] To be overcome by your presence, Lord -[4329.76 --> 4346.78] There's nothing worth more -[4346.78 --> 4349.22] That will ever come close -[4349.22 --> 4352.74] Nothing can compare -[4352.74 --> 4357.68] You're a living hope -[4357.68 --> 4364.06] Your presence holds -[4364.06 --> 4371.38] I've chased it and seen -[4371.38 --> 4374.62] Of the sweetest of us -[4374.62 --> 4377.58] When my heart becomes free -[4377.58 --> 4381.70] And the shame is undone -[4381.70 --> 4384.16] Your presence holds -[4384.16 --> 4388.16] Your presence holds -[4388.16 --> 4397.94] Holy Spirit, you are welcome here -[4397.94 --> 4400.74] Come, God, this place -[4400.74 --> 4403.48] And fill the atmosphere -[4403.48 --> 4409.94] Your glory, God, is what our hearts long for -[4409.94 --> 4412.46] To be overcome -[4412.46 --> 4412.58] To be overcome -[4412.58 --> 4416.40] By your presence, Lord -[4416.40 --> 4420.40] Your presence, Lord -[4420.40 --> 4424.48] Your presence, Lord -[4424.48 --> 4441.00] Let us experience the glory of your goodness -[4441.00 --> 4446.76] Let us become more aware of your presence -[4446.76 --> 4453.22] Let us experience the glory of your goodness -[4453.22 --> 4459.22] Let us become more aware of your presence -[4459.22 --> 4465.22] Let us experience the glory of your goodness -[4465.22 --> 4471.28] Let us become more aware of your presence -[4471.28 --> 4476.74] Let us experience the glory of your goodness -[4476.74 --> 4481.74] Let us become more aware of your presence -[4481.74 --> 4485.74] Let us experience the glory of your goodness -[4485.74 --> 4489.74] Let us experience the glory of your goodness -[4489.74 --> 4500.74] Holy Spirit, you are welcome here -[4500.74 --> 4504.40] Come, God, this place -[4504.40 --> 4507.20] And fill the atmosphere -[4507.20 --> 4513.82] Your glory, God, is what our hearts long for -[4513.82 --> 4516.66] To be overcome -[4516.66 --> 4520.66] By your presence, Lord -[4520.66 --> 4538.22] As you go this week, it's my prayer and hope -[4538.22 --> 4544.78] That you will go not accepting a nebulous, anemic spirituality -[4544.78 --> 4549.06] But that you will go in the power of the Spirit -[4549.06 --> 4552.40] It is my prayer that you will go -[4552.40 --> 4555.20] Especially you young people here with us this morning -[4555.20 --> 4557.10] That you will go and you will say -[4557.10 --> 4560.98] I go to a church that believes the Spirit can transform lives -[4560.98 --> 4565.44] Because that's what's happening here -[4565.44 --> 4571.60] Go with the blessing of God -[4571.60 --> 4577.68] God, go before you to lead you -[4577.68 --> 4580.54] God, go behind you to protect you -[4580.54 --> 4583.02] God, go beneath you to support you -[4583.02 --> 4586.16] And God, go beside you to befriend you -[4586.16 --> 4588.74] Do not be afraid -[4588.74 --> 4591.18] Let the blessing of God come upon you today -[4591.18 --> 4592.70] Do not be afraid -[4592.70 --> 4595.10] But go in peace -[4595.10 --> 4596.98] United with Christ -[4596.98 --> 4600.22] To love and serve the Lord -[4600.22 --> 4601.78] Amen -[4601.78 --> 4620.80] In the darkness we were weak -[4620.80 --> 4624.68] Without hope, without light -[4624.68 --> 4627.96] Till forever you came on -[4627.96 --> 4631.98] There was no mercy in your eyes -[4631.98 --> 4635.34] To fulfill the law and the cross -[4635.34 --> 4639.04] To the virgin in your life -[4639.04 --> 4642.34] From the throne of endless floor -[4642.34 --> 4646.30] To the great underdour -[4646.30 --> 4654.68] Praise the Father -[4654.68 --> 4658.68] Praise the Son -[4658.68 --> 4662.10] Praise the Spirit -[4662.10 --> 4665.52] Three in one -[4665.52 --> 4669.06] God of glory -[4669.06 --> 4671.38] Vagency -[4671.38 --> 4675.34] Praise forever -[4675.34 --> 4679.40] To the King of kings -[4679.40 --> 4687.32] To reveal the kingdom of God -[4687.32 --> 4690.86] And to grant the child of the lost -[4690.86 --> 4694.04] To redeem the whole creation -[4694.04 --> 4697.76] You in the arms, smiles and cross -[4697.76 --> 4701.14] For even in your suffering -[4701.14 --> 4704.76] You taught to the other side -[4704.76 --> 4707.82] Knowing this was our salvation -[4707.82 --> 4711.76] Jesus, for our Savior, you can die -[4711.76 --> 4720.78] Praise the Father -[4720.78 --> 4724.14] Praise the Son -[4724.14 --> 4727.82] Praise the Spirit -[4727.82 --> 4730.82] Flinging in one -[4730.82 --> 4735.04] God of glory -[4735.04 --> 4736.82] Vagency -[4736.82 --> 4737.82] Vagency -[4737.82 --> 4740.82] Praise forever -[4740.82 --> 4742.82] To the King -[4742.82 --> 4744.82] Of kings -[4744.82 --> 4746.82] throne -[4746.82 --> 4748.30] Big -[4748.78 --> 4749.82] Praise the Son -[4750.20 --> 4751.06] When the Lord -[4751.06 --> 4751.82] From the covenant -[4751.82 --> 4752.30] To oath -[4752.30 --> 4753.16] hba -[4753.16 --> 4753.26] He -[4753.26 --> 4753.84] Had -[4753.84 --> 4754.12] Lord -[4754.94 --> 4755.12] I -[4755.12 --> 4763.82] For the son -[4763.90 --> 4765.28] Of kings -[4765.28 --> 4768.44] 有一 -[4768.44 --> 4769.36] Toa -[4769.36 --> 4769.96] Tov -[4769.96 --> 4771.00] Bardzo -[4771.00 --> 4772.06] Ja -[4772.06 --> 4773.16] mayor -[4773.16 --> 4781.46] all pá -[4785.58 --> 4787.64] oh -[4803.16 --> 4817.16] is -[4833.16 --> 4847.16] is -[4863.16 --> 4877.16] is -[4893.16 --> 4895.16] is -[4923.16 --> 4925.16] is -[4953.16 --> 4955.16] is -[4955.16 --> 4957.16] is -[4957.16 --> 4959.16] is diff --git a/Sunday Worship, May 25, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, May 25, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 81ac0e23e30096acf61a9ae0ed5324524c81d164..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, May 25, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,100 +0,0 @@ -• Praise and worship through singing -• Announcement of a unique opportunity to acknowledge God's work among them -• Prayer over individuals (Liam, Matt, Nicole, Rob, Brenda, and their families) -• Celebration of Matt and Nicole becoming guardians for Liam and taking on new responsibilities -• Blessing and support from the church congregation for the Alkema family -• Acknowledging and encouraging a person's calling -• Laying hands for prayer on individuals -• Psalm 103 being read aloud as a prayer -• Blessing Liam, Matt, Nicole, and the church family -• Prayer for love and guidance in guardianship responsibilities -• Thanking God for relationships and modeling the gospel -• Singing a song about restoration of joy and praise to God -• Recitation of the Apostles Creed -• Discussion of faith and salvation in a time of desperation and doubt -• Affirmation of belief in God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit -• Importance of placing an X beside nominees for elder and deacon positions -• Instructions on voting process and handling ballots -• Introducing the offering bag and Baby Bottle Campaign -• Participating in the Baby Bottle Campaign for Hope for Women Pregnancy Center -• Discussing budget needs, being 15% behind on giving, and encouraging top-ups -• Explaining ministry shares and church budgets -• Inviting children to Kids Corner -• Defining training and muscles for a children's educational segment -• Introduction to muscles and exercise -• Demonstrating sit-ups and push-ups -• Analogy between exercising physical muscles and strengthening faith -• Discussion of how God can use hardships to strengthen faith -• Congregational prayer led by Seth, a pastoral elder -• Prayer requests for various individuals and church ministries -• The congregation prays for God's goodness, healing power, and guidance in their spiritual struggles. -• They pray for comfort and peace for those mourning the loss of loved ones, specifically the Skipper and Whistlink families. -• The speaker reflects on the importance of weekly worship gatherings, which refresh their souls after periods of anxiety and hardship. -• The congregation is about to hear a sermon based on 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12, focusing on the coming of Jesus Christ and the day of the Lord. -• The lawless one will be revealed and destroyed by Jesus -• Satan works through signs and wonders that serve the lie -• God sends a powerful delusion so people believe the lie -• Doubts about the reality of Christianity can lead to anxiety -• The return of Jesus is visible, loud, and unmistakable -• People who claim it has already happened are wrong -• The challenge to God's truthfulness can be overcome -• Paul addresses the question of what if Jesus is not true and gives reasons why it is true -• Rebellion must occur before the return of Jesus -• Apostasy will face God's people as a whole slew of people fall away from faith -• This apostasy will manifest as a mass turn away from true belief to a false one, marked by following a false Messiah -• Throughout church history, those who have fallen into apostasy did not recognize themselves as such -• The speaker describes what it means to be a Christian in the current world, referencing faith and obedience. -• The concept of "such a time as this" is mentioned, implying that Christians have a responsibility to act during difficult moments. -• A remnant of people will know the truth, but others will be deceived and eventually become apostates who no longer care about the truth. -• The speaker discusses the idea of an Antichrist or man of lawlessness, referencing Paul's writing in 2 Thessalonians. -• Bible scholars believe that this passage is likely the only explicit reference to the Antichrist in Paul's writings. -• The Antichrist is mentioned as a figure who opposes Jesus and His teaching, with some translations referring to it as "the man of lawlessness". -• The speaker contrasts knowing the truth with being deceived by Satan's lies and counterfeit. -• The revelation of Jesus Christ as the true and full apocalypse -• The man of lawlessness and the antichrist as an antirevelation to deceive and steal away believers -• How wickedness deceives people by giving them what they want, surrounding them with a culture that says morality is normal, or making them think moral and morality don't exist but are a social construct -• The importance of loving the truth -• The relationship between wickedness and deception -• How God reveals Himself as the way, truth, and life -• The need to go to God for guidance on what is true -• The role of God's warning in perseverance and connection to the truth -• God's grace in revealing the truth to believers -• The speaker emphasizes that faith is not the opposite of truth or rational understanding -• Believing in God does not require shutting off one's brain, but rather using it to explore and deepen one's faith -• Jesus encourages asking questions and seeking answers through his word and truth -• God can handle fear and doubts, and encourages using them as a means to go deeper into faith -• Jesus is the answer to all questions, the truth to all doubts, and has words of eternal life -• He invites people to come to Him with their worries, fears, and uncertainties. -• The speaker discusses the concept of a counterfeit Christ and the need to be aware of false promises. -• Paul's comfort in 2 Thessalonians 2 is analyzed, focusing on what holds back the man of lawlessness until he is taken away. -• The identity of this holding power is debated among scholars and preachers. -• Three possible answers are considered from different places in Scripture: Matthew 16, another unspecified location, and a third possibility not mentioned. -• The speaker presents their own approximation of the answer based on these locations. -• The church will not be overcome by Satan -• Jesus' gospel must be preached to all nations before the end times -• The truth of Jesus being proclaimed holds back evil and lawlessness -• An angel in Revelation 20 binds Satan for a thousand years, holding him back from deceiving nations -• God's active providence restrains evil through the church, preaching of the gospel, and his armies of angels -• The power of God's message in the world -• Trusting in Jesus as truth -• Knowing and living in the truth, even when uncertain about the future -• Staying confident in God's sovereignty and providence -• Standing firm in the gospel and trusting in God's plan for the church -• Prayer for the whole world to know that God exists -• Invocation of God's name and power through Jesus Christ -• Request for the Holy Spirit to come and guide the speaker -• Expression of trust in Christ's love and forgiveness -• Prayer for protection from fears, doubts, and sorrows -• Acknowledgment of Jesus as Savior and Lord -• Request for divine care of salvation and purification of the spirit -• The speaker's story is a song born of God's spirit, washed in his blood -• Salvation purges and is the glory of divine care -• Jesus is the Savior, and the speaker belongs to him -• The speaker's story is their song, born of God's spirit, washed in his blood -• The work of salvation involves being purchased by God -• A blessing from God is promised for those who go in faith, with protection, support, and friendship. -• A prayer to a great and mighty King, asking for guidance and faithfulness -• The speaker wants to trust in the King's wisdom and strength -• The King is described as faithful and never-changing over time -• The violin plays a line that echoes the theme of faithfulness -• A musical performance or recital is concluded with gratitude (multiple "thank you" statements) \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, May 25, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, May 25, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index cbe70f92145d50e40daef7df81ae66e25bf8ae52..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, May 25, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1842 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 419.98] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 449.98] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 479.98] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 509.98] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 539.98] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 569.98] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 599.98] Thank you. -[600.00 --> 629.98] Thank you. -[630.00 --> 659.98] Thank you. -[660.00 --> 689.98] Thank you. -[690.00 --> 719.98] Thank you. -[720.00 --> 749.98] Thank you. -[750.00 --> 779.98] Thank you. -[779.98 --> 809.96] Holy, holy, holy, holy, -[809.96 --> 839.94] All you, all the saints, -[839.94 --> 869.92] Thank you. -[869.92 --> 899.90] Thank you. -[899.90 --> 929.88] Love and purity. -[929.88 --> 959.86] Holy, holy, holy, -[959.86 --> 978.62] O Lord, my rock and my redeemer, -[978.62 --> 986.26] greatest treasure of my longing soul, -[986.26 --> 994.06] my God, like you there is no other, -[995.32 --> 1001.50] true delight is found in you alone. -[1002.16 --> 1009.38] Your grace, a well too deep to fathom, -[1009.38 --> 1016.38] your love exceeds the heaven's reed, -[1017.88 --> 1023.70] your truth, a fount of perfect wisdom, -[1024.92 --> 1031.86] my highest good and my unending need. -[1031.86 --> 1042.60] O Lord, my rock and my redeemer, -[1043.54 --> 1049.86] strong defender of my weary heart, -[1051.60 --> 1057.26] my sword to fight the cruel deceiver, -[1057.26 --> 1065.46] and my shield against its equal eyes. -[1066.32 --> 1072.26] My song when enemies surround me, -[1073.20 --> 1079.26] my hope when times of sorrow thrive, -[1079.26 --> 1086.38] my joy when trials are abounding, -[1086.94 --> 1094.26] your faithfulness, my refuge in the night. -[1098.26 --> 1104.26] O Lord, my rock and my redeemer, -[1104.26 --> 1112.26] gracious Savior of my ruined life, -[1112.26 --> 1119.26] my guilt and cross laid on your shoulders, -[1119.26 --> 1126.26] in my place you suffered, let and die. -[1126.26 --> 1134.26] You rose, the grave and never conquered. -[1134.26 --> 1141.26] You broke my bonds of sin and shame. -[1141.26 --> 1148.26] You rose, the grave and never conquered. -[1148.26 --> 1149.26] You rose, the grave and never conquered. -[1149.26 --> 1150.26] You rose, the grave and never conquered. -[1150.26 --> 1155.26] You rose, my bonds of sin and shame. -[1155.26 --> 1162.26] O Lord, my rock and my redeemer, -[1162.26 --> 1167.26] may all my days be glory to your name. -[1167.26 --> 1171.26] Glory to your name. -[1185.26 --> 1188.10] I invite you to have a seat for a moment. -[1188.10 --> 1189.10] Amen. -[1189.10 --> 1190.10] Amen. -[1190.10 --> 1193.10] We have a unique opportunity this morning, -[1193.10 --> 1196.10] and so we're going to break away -[1196.10 --> 1199.10] from our normal rhythms of worship -[1199.10 --> 1203.10] to acknowledge a thing that God has been doing among us -[1203.10 --> 1205.10] and that God continues to do among us -[1205.10 --> 1209.10] and to cover that over in prayer. -[1209.10 --> 1218.10] This morning we have a chance to pray over Liam and Matt and Nicole -[1218.10 --> 1221.10] and Rob and Brenda and all of their families -[1221.10 --> 1227.10] as Matt and Nicole are becoming guardians for Liam -[1227.10 --> 1230.10] and are going to take on the joy and the responsibility, -[1230.10 --> 1235.10] the heartache and the burden and the celebration of raising him. -[1235.10 --> 1240.10] And we are blessed to have gotten to know and love Liam -[1240.10 --> 1243.10] as a foster child to Rob and Brenda, -[1243.10 --> 1248.10] and we are blessed that Matt and Nicole are no longer of this congregation -[1248.10 --> 1250.10] but they're of our family, right? -[1250.10 --> 1252.10] And so we celebrate with you guys -[1252.10 --> 1255.10] and want to cover this moment in prayer. -[1256.10 --> 1258.10] I'm going to invite Rob and Brenda -[1258.10 --> 1261.10] and whoever else in the Alkema family who wants to come up, -[1261.10 --> 1263.10] and Matt and Nicole and whoever else in your family -[1263.10 --> 1267.10] wants to come up to the front here, -[1267.10 --> 1269.10] and we're going to gather around you -[1269.10 --> 1272.10] and lay hands on in worship. -[1272.10 --> 1286.10] Move to the middle, because people are going to surround you in a moment. -[1286.10 --> 1294.10] First of all, Rob and Brenda and the Alkema family wanted you all to know -[1294.10 --> 1298.10] how grateful they are for you as church family -[1298.10 --> 1302.10] and for the way that you have supported them and encouraged them -[1302.10 --> 1306.10] and welcomed and loved Liam into this family. -[1307.10 --> 1311.10] The way that you have helped to provide an incredibly stable, -[1311.10 --> 1314.10] most of the time, community for him. -[1317.10 --> 1320.10] And, as well, Matt and Nicole, -[1321.10 --> 1323.10] we wanted to take this time -[1324.10 --> 1328.10] and to cover over you in prayer -[1329.10 --> 1332.10] as you embody the gospel for Liam now. -[1333.10 --> 1336.10] As sons and daughters of this church family, -[1336.10 --> 1340.10] we love that you have been called by God to this task. -[1341.10 --> 1342.10] And we want to acknowledge that -[1342.10 --> 1344.10] and encourage that with prayer. -[1345.10 --> 1346.10] And so, as you guys are up here, -[1346.10 --> 1349.10] elders, family members, supporters, -[1349.10 --> 1350.10] come on up. -[1351.10 --> 1353.10] We're going to lay our hands on them at this time. -[1354.10 --> 1355.10] And so, maybe take a couple steps forward -[1355.10 --> 1357.10] so people can get around behind. -[1357.10 --> 1366.10] Yeah, Kevin's not wrong. -[1366.10 --> 1367.10] There's going to be a lot of people, -[1367.10 --> 1368.10] so make lots of room. -[1378.10 --> 1380.10] If you're not here at the front, -[1380.10 --> 1381.10] we encourage you, of course, -[1381.10 --> 1386.10] just to hold your hand out as a mark of you also extending this blessing in prayer. -[1387.10 --> 1388.10] Let's pray together. -[1391.10 --> 1395.10] Father God, this morning we pray the words of the psalmist in Psalm 103. -[1396.10 --> 1398.10] Bless the Lord, O my soul. -[1399.10 --> 1403.10] All that is within me, bless his holy name. -[1404.10 --> 1407.10] Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, -[1408.10 --> 1409.10] who forgives all your iniquity, -[1410.10 --> 1411.10] who heals all your diseases, -[1411.10 --> 1413.10] who redeems your life from the pit, -[1413.10 --> 1416.10] who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, -[1416.10 --> 1421.10] who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagles. -[1421.10 --> 1424.10] Bless the Lord, O my soul. -[1425.10 --> 1429.10] Lord God, our souls bless you today. -[1430.10 --> 1435.10] We bless you for the gift that is Liam to us as a church family -[1435.10 --> 1441.10] and to Matt and Nicole as they take increasing responsibility for his guardianship. -[1442.10 --> 1444.10] And we pray that you would bless them. -[1445.10 --> 1454.10] That the love that Liam has known and grown in here would just grow even more over these next days, weeks, months, and years. -[1454.10 --> 1461.10] We thank you, God, for the privilege of walking with him, of loving him. -[1461.10 --> 1464.10] And even as that changes for us here at Emmanuel, -[1464.10 --> 1469.10] we know that it is your love that persists and goes with him. -[1469.10 --> 1477.10] We thank you for Rob and Brenda and all the Alcuma family and what they have been as a gift to Liam -[1478.10 --> 1480.10] and how they have modeled the gospel to him. -[1481.10 --> 1483.10] And as that mantle now falls to Matt and Nicole, -[1483.10 --> 1487.10] we pray that you would cause your face to shine upon them, -[1487.10 --> 1490.10] that you would give them your grace and your peace, -[1490.10 --> 1497.10] and that in all things they too would model and live this gospel of Jesus Christ. -[1498.10 --> 1502.10] Father God, we celebrate your work among us -[1502.10 --> 1508.10] and we ask for your spirit to continue to guide, lead, and shape this story -[1508.10 --> 1511.10] in ways that are glorifying to you -[1512.10 --> 1515.10] and in ways that just cause us to say, -[1515.10 --> 1518.10] Bless the Lord, O my soul. -[1518.10 --> 1521.10] Bless his holy name. -[1521.10 --> 1524.10] All God's people said, Amen. -[1525.10 --> 1526.10] Amen. -[1538.10 --> 1551.10] Would you stand and join us in singing our next song? -[1551.10 --> 1572.10] Restoring me the joy of my salvation. -[1572.10 --> 1579.10] Restoring me the joy of my salvation. -[1579.10 --> 1582.10] Take me back to where it all began. -[1582.10 --> 1587.10] Take me back to where it all began. -[1587.10 --> 1600.10] For all I ever wanted was your presence. -[1601.10 --> 1607.10] How I long to be there once again. -[1607.10 --> 1616.10] Like a fire that the world can burn out and play. -[1616.10 --> 1620.10] Till nothing between us remains. -[1620.10 --> 1626.10] My life is an altar to you. -[1626.10 --> 1628.10] Renewing me a pure and willing spirit. -[1628.10 --> 1645.46] Breathe in care, all the efforts that burn in my heart, a love taken back to the start, my life is an altar to you. -[1645.46 --> 1671.42] Renewing me a pure and willing spirit, take me back to where it all began, before it all became so complicated. -[1675.46 --> 1701.10] How I long to be there once again, like fire that the world can burn up and flame, till nothing between us reigns, my life is an altar to you. -[1701.10 --> 1719.10] Breathe in care, all the efforts that burn in my heart, a love taken back to the start, my life is an altar to you. -[1719.10 --> 1738.10] Now I'm sorry, please forgive me, for when I've gone cold, Lord I need you. -[1738.10 --> 1764.10] How I need you, how I need you, to awake my soul, my heart, that the world can burn up and flame, till nothing between us reigns, my life is an altar to you. -[1764.10 --> 1782.10] Breathe in care, all the efforts that burn in my heart, a love taken back to the start, my life is an altar to you. -[1782.10 --> 1811.10] All the earth will shout your praise, our hearts will cry. -[1811.10 --> 1814.10] These bones will cry, these bones will sing. -[1814.10 --> 1821.10] Great are you, Lord. -[1821.10 --> 1832.10] And all the earth will shout your praise, our hearts will cry, these bones will sing. -[1832.10 --> 1833.10] Great are you, Lord. -[1833.10 --> 1834.10] Great are you, Lord. -[1834.10 --> 1839.10] Great are you, Lord. -[1839.10 --> 1847.10] And all the earth will shout your praise, our hearts will cry, these bones will sing. -[1847.10 --> 1851.10] Great are you, Lord. -[1851.10 --> 1852.10] Great are you, Lord. -[1852.10 --> 1853.10] Great are you, Lord. -[1853.10 --> 1858.10] Great are you, Lord. -[1858.10 --> 1859.10] Great are you, Lord. -[1859.10 --> 1860.10] You're your grace, your love, so we pour out our praise, your hope. -[1860.10 --> 1861.10] You're your grace, your love, so we pour out our praise, your hope. -[1861.10 --> 1863.10] Oh -[1891.10 --> 1893.10] Oh -[1921.10 --> 1940.34] Join us together in speaking the truth through the Apostles Creed -[1940.34 --> 1947.60] I believe in God, Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth -[1947.60 --> 1952.44] I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord -[1952.44 --> 1957.58] Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary -[1957.58 --> 1963.60] He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried -[1963.60 --> 1965.62] He descended to hell -[1965.62 --> 1968.92] The third day he rose again from the dead -[1968.92 --> 1974.96] He ascended to heaven and is seated at the bright hand of God the Father Almighty -[1974.96 --> 1979.12] From there he will come to judge the living and the dead -[1979.12 --> 1984.40] I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Holy Catholic Church -[1984.40 --> 1988.52] The communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins -[1988.52 --> 1992.74] The resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting -[1992.74 --> 1993.96] Amen -[1993.96 --> 2016.04] In this time of desperation -[2016.04 --> 2024.24] When all we know is doubt and fear -[2024.24 --> 2030.78] There is only one foundation -[2030.78 --> 2033.78] We believe -[2033.78 --> 2037.78] We believe -[2037.78 --> 2038.78] We believe -[2038.78 --> 2045.12] In this broken generation -[2045.12 --> 2052.78] When all is dark you help us see -[2052.78 --> 2059.78] There is only one foundation -[2059.78 --> 2060.78] There is only one salvation -[2060.78 --> 2061.78] There is only one salvation -[2061.78 --> 2062.78] We believe -[2062.78 --> 2063.78] We believe -[2063.78 --> 2065.78] We believe -[2065.78 --> 2067.78] We believe -[2067.78 --> 2069.78] We believe -[2069.78 --> 2070.78] We believe -[2070.78 --> 2071.78] In God the Father -[2071.78 --> 2072.78] We believe -[2072.78 --> 2073.78] We believe -[2073.78 --> 2074.78] In Jesus Christ -[2074.78 --> 2076.78] We believe -[2076.78 --> 2078.78] In the Holy Spirit -[2078.78 --> 2082.78] And he's giving us new life -[2082.78 --> 2083.78] We believe -[2083.78 --> 2085.78] In the crucifixion -[2085.78 --> 2086.78] We believe -[2086.78 --> 2089.78] That he comforted death -[2089.78 --> 2090.78] We believe -[2090.78 --> 2091.78] We believe -[2091.78 --> 2092.78] We believe -[2092.78 --> 2094.78] We believe -[2094.78 --> 2095.78] We believe -[2095.78 --> 2096.78] In the resurrection -[2096.78 --> 2097.78] And he's coming back again -[2097.78 --> 2100.78] We believe -[2100.78 --> 2101.78] We believe -[2101.78 --> 2102.78] We believe -[2103.78 --> 2116.78] So let our faith be more than that God -[2116.78 --> 2130.78] we believe -[2133.82 --> 2142.78] we believe in jesus -[2146.78 --> 2151.74] we believe -[2153.50 --> 2159.78] ане -[2159.78 --> 2168.32] Let the lost be found and the dead be raised in the here and now. -[2168.32 --> 2171.88] Let the blood in vain, let the church live out. -[2172.12 --> 2176.66] Our God will say we believe, we believe. -[2176.86 --> 2180.44] And the gates of hell will not prevail. -[2180.60 --> 2184.04] For the power of God has torn the veil. -[2184.14 --> 2187.56] Though we know your love will never fail. -[2187.56 --> 2194.30] We believe, we believe, we believe in God the Father. -[2194.30 --> 2197.30] We believe in Jesus Christ. -[2198.14 --> 2201.42] We believe in the Holy Spirit. -[2202.20 --> 2205.30] And He's given us new lives. -[2205.62 --> 2208.30] We believe in the crucifixion. -[2208.96 --> 2211.30] We believe that He conquered death. -[2212.48 --> 2215.48] We believe in the resurrection. -[2215.48 --> 2218.04] Today He's coming back. -[2218.38 --> 2220.44] He's coming back again. -[2225.22 --> 2228.46] He's coming back again. -[2230.22 --> 2235.08] We believe, we believe. -[2235.08 --> 2235.68] We believe. -[2245.48 --> 2258.96] Good morning. -[2258.96 --> 2259.02] Good morning. -[2260.22 --> 2267.38] As part of our process for elders and deacons, -[2267.38 --> 2278.54] this morning, we have the opportunity to place an X beside all those people that we affirm -[2278.54 --> 2283.28] for the office of elder and deacon. -[2284.34 --> 2287.12] This vote is actually required. -[2287.12 --> 2289.60] So that's why we're going through this process. -[2289.60 --> 2293.98] But it's not the vote to install either one. -[2294.08 --> 2296.76] So you just put an X beside every name, -[2296.90 --> 2302.86] unless you feel that you have to say no for one reason or another. -[2304.48 --> 2307.18] A couple of elders are going to come up front here, please. -[2307.18 --> 2309.68] And hand out these ballots. -[2311.04 --> 2316.12] And then we have some just before we do that, before the offering this morning. -[2317.88 --> 2319.12] Dick is here already. -[2319.34 --> 2322.16] Can we, Dave, you want to come up front and clarity, please? -[2322.16 --> 2336.62] So once you've filled out the ballot, fold it in half, please, -[2336.68 --> 2339.28] and put it in the offering bag as it comes by. -[2340.38 --> 2341.94] And then that way they'll be collected. -[2342.54 --> 2348.18] And then a couple of elders will afterwards sort them out and count everything. -[2348.18 --> 2355.30] Next week will be the drawing of the lots of the names. -[2355.40 --> 2357.34] So we put the names in a bag. -[2358.20 --> 2363.46] And then because we have more than one person for each position that needed, -[2364.78 --> 2369.06] those names will be drawn next week during the service. -[2378.18 --> 2393.40] Who's ever coming up for the deacons now can come up and give that announcement. -[2396.24 --> 2396.68] Pearl? -[2396.68 --> 2396.74] Pearl? -[2401.74 --> 2402.46] Yeah, yeah. -[2402.64 --> 2407.68] The fold up the ballot and place it in the bags, the offering bag, as it comes by. -[2408.18 --> 2408.68] Okay. -[2421.18 --> 2421.50] Okay. -[2421.68 --> 2425.02] So while we're doing that, we'll also introduce the offering. -[2426.50 --> 2430.30] First of all, a reminder that we are participating in the Baby Bottle Campaign, -[2430.68 --> 2436.62] which is in coordination with the Hope for Women Pregnancy Center. -[2436.62 --> 2439.10] And we're about halfway through that campaign. -[2439.20 --> 2442.34] It started Mother's Day, will end on Father's Day. -[2442.46 --> 2449.70] And if you haven't yet joined in this campaign, then you can pick up a baby bottle that's in the back on the booth in the foyer. -[2449.70 --> 2456.70] And the idea is that you fill it with loonies, toonies, paper, money, bills, checks. -[2457.22 --> 2459.94] And then they are returned on Father's Day. -[2460.46 --> 2464.52] And then the deacons will see to it that it gets to the Hope for Women's Pregnancy Center. -[2464.52 --> 2474.28] This center is a place where women who are experiencing unexpected, unplanned, troublesome pregnancies can go for counseling, -[2474.28 --> 2478.48] for support, and for some practical aid as well. -[2478.48 --> 2484.46] And this center supports until the children that are born are about two years of age. -[2484.46 --> 2488.02] So it's a great way to support life. -[2488.46 --> 2499.10] And also it's a way of dealing with all those loonies and toonies that have a way of collecting in various pockets and purses and bowls and whatnot in our homes -[2499.10 --> 2502.50] that you can actually then just give them away to the pregnancy center. -[2502.62 --> 2511.28] And all the bottles will be recorded by who gave them so that you can get a tax receipt for them as well. -[2511.28 --> 2522.40] So, and then the offering today, not only in the bags do we place our vote, but today's offering today is for the budget. -[2522.96 --> 2524.82] So this is called Budget Sunday. -[2525.48 --> 2533.60] We're not quite halfway through the fiscal year, but it's a good time to pause and reflect how we're doing. -[2533.88 --> 2540.98] And in communication with Marilyn this past week, we're doing pretty good, but we are about 15% behind in our giving. -[2541.28 --> 2547.44] So if we do the math, that means by November, which is when you get all these annoying announcements, -[2547.44 --> 2553.86] if you keep up this trend, then by November we'll be behind by 30%. -[2553.86 --> 2558.54] So think of ways that you can top up your giving now. -[2559.00 --> 2565.58] And also, especially since the summer months tend to be a little leaner in donations as we're all on vacation and whatnot. -[2565.58 --> 2574.50] So reminder that the budget is for the ministries of this church and also for the greater church ministries through our ministry shares. -[2574.50 --> 2604.48] Thank you. -[2604.50 --> 2632.88] Thank you. -[2632.88 --> 2634.88] I want to see you. -[2636.22 --> 2639.88] Open the eyes of my heart, Lord. -[2640.76 --> 2643.68] Open the eyes of my heart. -[2644.14 --> 2646.88] I want to see you. -[2648.22 --> 2651.24] I want to see you. -[2652.36 --> 2656.50] See you, Father, and stand it up. -[2658.20 --> 2660.92] Shining in the light of your glory. -[2660.92 --> 2662.92] Shining in the light of your glory. -[2662.92 --> 2665.16] Throw out your power and love. -[2665.56 --> 2669.48] As we sing holy, holy, holy. -[2673.34 --> 2676.46] Open the eyes of my heart, Lord. -[2677.68 --> 2679.92] Open the eyes of my heart. -[2680.94 --> 2683.64] I want to see you. -[2685.02 --> 2687.98] I want to see you. -[2687.98 --> 2693.98] Open the eyes of my heart, Lord. -[2694.94 --> 2697.64] Open the eyes of my heart. -[2698.22 --> 2700.98] I want to see you. -[2702.14 --> 2705.26] I want to see you. -[2706.30 --> 2709.98] See you, Father, and stand it up. -[2709.98 --> 2713.48] I want to see you. -[2713.48 --> 2713.90] í -[2714.06 --> 2728.28] enjoy it's the idea you know and Tout -[2728.28 --> 2732.26] this is where you dream come true. -[2732.26 --> 2741.26] Holy, Holy, Holy -[2741.26 --> 2747.26] Holy, Holy, Holy -[2747.26 --> 2752.26] Holy, Holy, Holy -[2752.26 --> 2756.26] Holy, Holy, Holy -[2756.26 --> 2760.26] I want to see you -[2762.26 --> 2766.26] Holy, Holy, Holy -[2766.26 --> 2770.26] Holy, Holy, Holy -[2770.26 --> 2774.26] Holy, Holy, Holy -[2774.26 --> 2778.26] I want to see you -[2792.26 --> 2810.26] Good morning, everyone. If you are a child, age three up to grade four. I'd like to invite you to come on up to the front for kids corner before we head off to children's worship time. -[2810.26 --> 2816.50] I know we're going to be missing a few people because it's cadet camp this weekend, right? -[2816.56 --> 2819.16] So some of the boys, the older boys are gone. -[2823.90 --> 2824.78] All right. -[2825.48 --> 2830.50] So we started talking last week about something called training. -[2830.64 --> 2832.42] Does anyone know what training is? -[2832.46 --> 2834.42] What does it mean if you're training for something? -[2836.16 --> 2837.14] What do you think, Ruby? -[2838.40 --> 2839.72] You're getting ready for something. -[2839.72 --> 2843.08] It's like when you practice for something so that you get better and better at it. -[2843.62 --> 2844.50] Okay, another question. -[2845.04 --> 2846.96] Can anyone tell me what muscles are? -[2847.86 --> 2850.26] Not the food, the other kind of muscles. -[2850.68 --> 2851.06] Karis. -[2852.66 --> 2853.84] Something that makes you strong. -[2853.92 --> 2854.14] Exactly. -[2854.24 --> 2856.54] They're a part of your body that we can't see, but they're underneath. -[2856.70 --> 2858.80] They're all over our body, and they help make us strong. -[2858.92 --> 2863.34] And did you know you can make your muscles stronger by training, by practicing? -[2863.62 --> 2865.94] So do you guys know what a sit-up is? -[2866.58 --> 2866.94] Yeah. -[2867.02 --> 2867.98] Can you do a sit-up? -[2868.38 --> 2868.60] No. -[2868.60 --> 2869.98] Can anyone do a sit-up? -[2870.74 --> 2871.82] Okay, show me a sit-up. -[2871.86 --> 2873.46] If you think you can do a sit-up, do a sit-up. -[2874.40 --> 2875.94] Anybody can do this, just saying. -[2877.62 --> 2877.90] Awesome. -[2878.10 --> 2878.56] Yeah, see, look. -[2878.60 --> 2879.26] Some of them can do a sit-up. -[2879.32 --> 2880.18] How about a push-up? -[2880.62 --> 2881.34] That's a little harder. -[2881.44 --> 2882.24] Can anyone do a push-up? -[2882.30 --> 2882.64] Try it. -[2882.68 --> 2882.98] Show me. -[2883.12 --> 2884.10] If you think you can do it. -[2884.64 --> 2886.56] Again, anyone is welcome to do this. -[2887.06 --> 2887.98] So there's some push-ups. -[2888.92 --> 2889.84] Exercise time in the middle. -[2889.92 --> 2890.74] Okay, awesome. -[2890.74 --> 2890.86] Awesome. -[2891.22 --> 2893.08] Which one's harder, a push-up or a sit-up? -[2894.74 --> 2895.84] Some people think push-up. -[2895.84 --> 2897.76] I think, I mean, I think a push-up's pretty hard. -[2898.32 --> 2901.58] If you couldn't do a push-up, you know, if you practice doing push-ups every day, that -[2901.58 --> 2904.94] you would get better and better, and you could do more and more push-ups, right? -[2904.94 --> 2909.48] So we're going to be talking about how we can strengthen our faith today. -[2909.62 --> 2913.78] So we can strengthen our muscles, but we can also strengthen our faith so that when we -[2913.78 --> 2919.42] go through hard times, that our faith is strong, and how God can use those hard times to make -[2919.42 --> 2922.30] our faith even stronger, kind of like training our muscles. -[2922.78 --> 2928.48] So let's all stand up, and we'll do the blessing, and then we're going to head off to continue -[2928.48 --> 2928.90] our learning. -[2928.90 --> 2929.20] All right. -[2929.20 --> 2933.28] All right. -[2934.06 --> 2936.10] The Lord be with you. -[2936.32 --> 2938.12] And also with you. -[2955.44 --> 2956.22] Good morning. -[2956.22 --> 2961.34] My name is Seth, and I am a pastoral elder here at our church, and I am not going to -[2961.34 --> 2964.74] make you stand up and do jumping jacks or push-ups or anything. -[2965.10 --> 2968.30] And I'm thankful that Nikki didn't extend that invitation to all of us for the other -[2968.30 --> 2969.00] exercise, too. -[2969.64 --> 2973.58] But we are going to approach God as one way of strengthening our faith. -[2973.68 --> 2975.58] So please join me in our congregational prayer. -[2978.86 --> 2981.06] Father in heaven, we thank you for this day. -[2981.70 --> 2985.90] Thank you for the opportunity to gather together as your body to worship you. -[2985.90 --> 2987.58] And magnify your holy name. -[2988.46 --> 2993.34] Thank you for the reminder in Psalm 5 that by your great love, we can come into your house, -[2993.52 --> 2996.54] and in reverence we can bow down toward your holy temple. -[2997.66 --> 3000.86] We are grateful for all that you have done and continue to do. -[3001.34 --> 3004.48] And each week as we gather, we remember together your goodness. -[3004.48 --> 3011.04] We also remember and stand in awe of your power and faithfulness, claiming hold of the promise -[3011.04 --> 3014.74] made in Psalm 5 that in the morning, Lord, you hear my voice. -[3015.38 --> 3018.94] In the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly. -[3019.70 --> 3022.02] And we humbly bring these requests to you now. -[3022.02 --> 3026.22] We pray for your blessing on the new marriage of Ben and Leanna Walsher. -[3026.84 --> 3031.04] We pray that you will allow them to grow in their love for each other and for you. -[3032.02 --> 3036.30] We also lift up all of the marriages in our church, and we ask that you will bless each -[3036.30 --> 3039.76] and every one of them through whatever challenges or struggles they may be facing. -[3040.62 --> 3043.26] May they find joy in loving you and each other. -[3043.26 --> 3048.76] Father, we also pray for your continued blessing on the ministries of this church. -[3049.60 --> 3054.20] Today we specifically lift up the cadets' ministry to you in thankfulness for another great year, -[3054.64 --> 3058.44] and ask that you will continue to provide ways for the young boys of this church -[3058.44 --> 3060.90] to learn about living lives of service for you. -[3062.24 --> 3064.64] We also pray for a blessing on our church leadership. -[3065.32 --> 3068.66] As we enter a time of changing season with our leadership, -[3069.00 --> 3071.28] we thank you for providing a new slate of leaders. -[3071.28 --> 3074.24] We ask for a blessing on that process moving forward, -[3074.52 --> 3077.48] and that the new leadership will follow your guiding. -[3078.52 --> 3081.20] We also pray for a blessing moving forward with Kevin, -[3081.42 --> 3085.30] as we discern as a church our response to your call. -[3086.08 --> 3087.92] Give us wisdom in that light as well. -[3089.86 --> 3092.36] Lord Jesus, we ask that you will use your healing power -[3092.36 --> 3095.16] in the lives of those who struggle with physical and mental health. -[3096.00 --> 3097.88] We lift up Doug and Tessa, -[3098.12 --> 3100.56] and ask that you will give them strength and endurance -[3100.56 --> 3102.44] in their respective battles with cancer. -[3103.64 --> 3105.00] We also pray for Tanya, -[3105.42 --> 3107.86] and ask that you will allow her to experience joy -[3107.86 --> 3109.78] in the knowledge of your faithful goodness -[3109.78 --> 3111.12] in the midst of her struggle. -[3113.34 --> 3115.26] We also pray for your healing power -[3115.26 --> 3117.02] to reach into the hearts of all of us -[3117.02 --> 3118.66] who struggle with our spiritual health. -[3119.40 --> 3121.40] We pray again, like the psalmist, -[3121.40 --> 3123.02] that you would lead us, Lord, -[3123.18 --> 3125.52] in your righteousness because of our enemies. -[3126.12 --> 3127.94] Make your way straight before us. -[3129.30 --> 3130.80] Guide us so that we are not deceived, -[3131.24 --> 3132.52] but that we may love the truth. -[3134.44 --> 3135.52] And Lord, this morning, -[3135.66 --> 3137.12] we ask for your comfort and peace -[3137.12 --> 3139.46] for all of those who mourn the loss of loved ones. -[3139.46 --> 3142.90] We especially pray for the Skipper and Whistlink families, -[3143.24 --> 3144.48] that you will be very near to them -[3144.48 --> 3146.90] during this difficult time after Rachel's loss. -[3147.82 --> 3151.44] We thank you that your promises reach beyond the grave -[3151.44 --> 3154.16] and give us the assurance of eternity with Christ. -[3155.10 --> 3156.64] May we hold on to these promises -[3156.64 --> 3158.80] as faithfully as you hold on to us. -[3158.80 --> 3162.00] As the psalmist again writes, -[3162.62 --> 3164.74] Let all who take refuge in you be glad. -[3165.42 --> 3166.76] Let them ever sing for joy. -[3167.62 --> 3169.12] Spread your protection over them, -[3169.30 --> 3172.10] that those who love your name may rejoice in you. -[3172.90 --> 3174.70] Surely, Lord, you bless the righteous. -[3175.24 --> 3177.70] You surround them with your favor as with a shield. -[3179.36 --> 3181.10] Bless us all as we are about to hear -[3181.10 --> 3182.22] the preaching of your word. -[3182.82 --> 3185.06] May we listen well to what your spirit tells us, -[3185.46 --> 3187.56] love the truth, and so be saved. -[3188.80 --> 3191.64] All this we humbly pray in the name of Jesus Christ, -[3191.86 --> 3192.86] our Lord and Savior. -[3193.66 --> 3193.96] Amen. -[3214.74 --> 3217.04] I know I've said this a number of times before, -[3217.04 --> 3220.24] but it is so good to be with you. -[3220.32 --> 3224.06] It is so good to gather and to worship our God. -[3224.76 --> 3228.28] Our weekly worship together really does refresh my soul, -[3228.52 --> 3233.10] and after weeks of anxiety and sharing concerns -[3233.10 --> 3238.58] and hardship, after troubles and celebrations -[3238.58 --> 3241.26] and entering into hard things, -[3241.26 --> 3245.34] it is just a gift to gather and to worship our God -[3245.34 --> 3248.40] and to sit in his presence and to hear from him. -[3249.18 --> 3251.02] We're going to hear from God this morning -[3251.02 --> 3254.42] as he speaks to us from 2 Thessalonians. -[3254.56 --> 3257.90] We've been in a series through the books of Thessalonians. -[3258.74 --> 3260.96] And at the off, I just want to warn you -[3260.96 --> 3262.56] that this is one of those texts -[3262.56 --> 3265.84] that probably isn't preached on a lot, -[3265.84 --> 3268.72] but is speculated about a whole bunch. -[3269.52 --> 3271.06] And there's some weird things in here. -[3271.48 --> 3273.52] We're not going to cover over all of them. -[3273.64 --> 3276.70] We just can't do that in our time together this morning. -[3277.42 --> 3280.22] But I do want to encourage you to open up your Bible, -[3280.40 --> 3282.48] to follow along, to have that there. -[3282.58 --> 3284.68] And so if you don't have a Bible in hand, -[3285.04 --> 3286.18] there's a few at the back. -[3286.26 --> 3287.02] You can grab there, -[3287.02 --> 3291.14] or you can turn your device and find the text there. -[3291.34 --> 3292.54] The first time through, -[3292.68 --> 3294.48] it will be on the screen behind me. -[3295.32 --> 3296.68] But otherwise, I'm going to encourage you -[3296.68 --> 3298.44] to have that in front of you as we go. -[3300.40 --> 3303.26] We're going to read 2 Thessalonians 2, -[3303.70 --> 3304.80] starting at verse 1, -[3304.84 --> 3306.52] and we'll read through verse 12. -[3309.20 --> 3312.32] Concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ -[3312.32 --> 3314.66] and our being gathered to him, -[3314.66 --> 3317.28] we ask you, brothers and sisters, -[3317.74 --> 3320.66] not to become easily unsettled or alarmed -[3321.24 --> 3324.08] by the teaching allegedly from us, -[3324.44 --> 3327.50] whether by a prophecy or by word of mouth or by letter, -[3328.08 --> 3331.62] asserting that the day of the Lord has already come. -[3333.34 --> 3336.42] Don't let anyone deceive you in any way, -[3337.02 --> 3340.50] for that day will not come until the rebellion occurs -[3340.50 --> 3343.70] and the man of lawlessness is revealed, -[3343.70 --> 3345.88] the man doomed to destruction. -[3347.20 --> 3349.96] He will oppose and will exalt himself -[3349.96 --> 3353.22] over everything that is called God and is worshipped -[3353.22 --> 3356.74] so that he sets himself up in God's temple, -[3357.20 --> 3359.22] proclaiming himself to be God. -[3360.70 --> 3364.26] Don't you remember that when I was with you, -[3364.34 --> 3365.96] I used to tell you these things? -[3365.96 --> 3370.28] And now you know what is holding him back -[3370.28 --> 3373.10] so that he may be revealed at the proper time. -[3373.76 --> 3377.92] For the secret power of lawlessness is already at work, -[3378.08 --> 3380.16] but the one who now holds it back -[3380.16 --> 3383.92] will continue to do so till he is taken out of the way. -[3384.68 --> 3387.72] And then the lawless one will be revealed, -[3388.16 --> 3391.98] whom the Lord Jesus will overthrow with the breath of his mouth -[3391.98 --> 3394.68] and destroy by the splendor of his coming. -[3395.86 --> 3399.98] The coming of the lawless one will be in accordance with how Satan works. -[3400.78 --> 3404.82] He will use all sorts of displays of power through signs and wonders -[3404.82 --> 3410.24] that serve the lie and all the ways that wickedness deceives those who are perishing. -[3410.24 --> 3415.44] They perish because they refuse to love the truth and so be saved. -[3416.44 --> 3419.86] For this reason, God sends them a powerful delusion -[3419.86 --> 3421.92] so that they will believe the lie -[3421.92 --> 3424.34] and so that all will be condemned -[3424.34 --> 3429.16] who have not believed the truth but have delighted in wickedness. -[3430.22 --> 3431.80] This is the word of the Lord. -[3434.06 --> 3437.92] I think for many of us, thanks be to God in that moment is, -[3438.36 --> 3439.26] that's weird. -[3440.24 --> 3440.96] Right? -[3441.04 --> 3442.70] This is one of those texts, like I've said. -[3444.80 --> 3449.60] Now, what if all of this, -[3450.90 --> 3453.34] by this I mean everything we're doing here this morning, -[3453.88 --> 3456.62] right, the singing, the praying, the longing for, -[3456.72 --> 3457.98] the laying on of hands, -[3458.34 --> 3462.22] what if all of this isn't true? -[3464.52 --> 3467.74] What if this Jesus thing isn't real? -[3470.24 --> 3471.28] What if this isn't true? -[3471.28 --> 3471.62] Right? -[3471.66 --> 3472.32] What we're doing here? -[3473.60 --> 3474.74] Are we wasting our time? -[3477.02 --> 3478.24] I mean, if it's not true, yeah. -[3479.08 --> 3479.48] Absolutely. -[3480.18 --> 3480.30] Right? -[3480.34 --> 3484.06] The Apostle Paul says that if the resurrection of Jesus isn't true, -[3484.18 --> 3486.24] which is foundational, core to what it means to be Christian, -[3486.52 --> 3488.58] then Christians are most of all to be pitied. -[3488.58 --> 3492.32] What if we missed something? -[3493.82 --> 3494.96] What if we got it wrong? -[3496.76 --> 3496.96] Right? -[3497.00 --> 3499.34] And I'm not just talking about regular doubts here. -[3499.56 --> 3501.80] I'm not just talking about questions that we might have. -[3502.04 --> 3504.08] I mean, what if this isn't real? -[3504.08 --> 3510.20] If this isn't real, we've all been lied to. -[3511.26 --> 3514.26] If this isn't real, you pay me to lie to you. -[3518.38 --> 3521.80] If this isn't real, we've missed something. -[3522.74 --> 3524.62] And I don't know about you, but if this isn't real, -[3524.68 --> 3526.10] my anxiety starts spiking. -[3526.10 --> 3532.12] Now, there's all sorts of ways that we're told in our world, right, -[3532.16 --> 3534.02] that we can bring down our anxiety. -[3534.24 --> 3537.98] There's all sorts of ways that we can limit the impact of our worry. -[3538.20 --> 3540.20] We can breathe deeply. -[3540.88 --> 3544.48] We can practice intention or meditation. -[3544.88 --> 3546.98] We can reevaluate our priorities. -[3547.40 --> 3548.98] We can reeducate ourselves. -[3549.94 --> 3552.26] And if it's not this, well, -[3552.26 --> 3555.64] then maybe we better get on the right side of history -[3555.64 --> 3557.24] and find a better answer. -[3559.16 --> 3560.98] Now, whether you've wondered this -[3560.98 --> 3564.14] or whether you've wondered something else that gives you anxiety, -[3564.70 --> 3566.86] the question for all of us is, -[3567.16 --> 3568.30] how do we handle it? -[3569.32 --> 3571.42] How do we find out what's really real? -[3571.92 --> 3573.02] What's really true? -[3575.54 --> 3578.96] That question and its related impact -[3578.96 --> 3581.32] is behind what we read about this morning. -[3582.44 --> 3585.36] And if you look at the first couple verses that we read, -[3585.64 --> 3590.82] it seems that either after Paul's first teaching on the matter -[3590.82 --> 3593.20] or before even his first letter, -[3593.72 --> 3596.04] other people, other teachers, -[3596.60 --> 3600.24] had risen up in the community of the church of Thessalonians, -[3600.36 --> 3601.34] of the Thessalonians, -[3601.34 --> 3605.60] and have said that the return of Jesus has already taken place. -[3605.60 --> 3609.92] You might remember from the first letter, -[3610.70 --> 3613.62] in 1 Thessalonians 4, verse 16, -[3614.08 --> 3614.92] we read that, -[3614.92 --> 3618.54] the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a loud command, -[3618.66 --> 3619.92] with the voice of the archangel, -[3620.02 --> 3621.20] the trumpet call of God, -[3621.32 --> 3624.24] and the dead in Christ will rise first. -[3625.20 --> 3626.26] Now, notice there, -[3626.34 --> 3628.34] and we made this point when we were looking at that text, -[3628.66 --> 3630.34] the return of Jesus is visible, -[3630.60 --> 3631.28] it is loud, -[3631.42 --> 3632.70] and it is unmistakable. -[3632.70 --> 3634.50] It won't be missed, right? -[3634.56 --> 3636.58] Even the dead will rise when he comes. -[3636.82 --> 3638.12] Point is, you won't miss it. -[3638.20 --> 3639.34] It cannot be missed. -[3639.92 --> 3642.04] And anyone who tries to tell you otherwise, -[3643.42 --> 3645.74] right, anyone who tries to tell you that it's already happened, -[3646.62 --> 3647.86] you can say, -[3648.24 --> 3648.40] no. -[3649.38 --> 3650.34] That's impossible. -[3650.84 --> 3652.00] Because we would know. -[3652.80 --> 3654.70] There's no secret to it. -[3654.70 --> 3656.94] But, -[3657.18 --> 3658.36] missing it -[3658.36 --> 3660.42] is their anxiety. -[3662.36 --> 3663.92] Being wrong about it -[3663.92 --> 3665.76] is their fear. -[3666.62 --> 3666.72] Right? -[3666.80 --> 3667.92] What if we missed it? -[3668.58 --> 3669.94] What if we're wrong? -[3670.20 --> 3671.06] What if Paul lied? -[3671.32 --> 3672.66] What if this isn't true? -[3673.76 --> 3674.86] You see how that line works? -[3675.72 --> 3676.66] That's their longing. -[3677.30 --> 3679.52] That's the aching of their heart. -[3679.52 --> 3684.12] What if all this Jesus thing isn't true? -[3685.82 --> 3687.02] That's what Paul's addressing. -[3688.10 --> 3689.26] And he gets at it right away. -[3689.54 --> 3692.52] He gives us another reason why we can see that it's true. -[3692.96 --> 3695.08] Verse 3 and 4, if you're looking at it. -[3695.38 --> 3695.44] Right? -[3696.00 --> 3700.92] This shows us another reason why the challenge to God's truthfulness can be overcome. -[3701.78 --> 3704.48] He tells us what must happen first. -[3705.40 --> 3705.60] Right? -[3705.64 --> 3708.62] What must happen before the return of Jesus. -[3708.62 --> 3709.26] He says, -[3709.68 --> 3712.02] For that day will not come until... -[3712.02 --> 3713.80] And then he lists two things. -[3714.70 --> 3714.84] Right? -[3714.98 --> 3716.18] The rebellion occurs -[3716.18 --> 3719.68] and the man of lawlessness is revealed -[3719.68 --> 3722.66] and sets himself up to be worshipped. -[3723.52 --> 3724.70] Paul is saying, -[3725.56 --> 3727.30] As you are discerning the truth, -[3727.76 --> 3728.88] know this truth. -[3729.66 --> 3729.90] Right? -[3729.96 --> 3732.18] There are some things that have to yet happen -[3732.18 --> 3736.26] before we can say this is taking place. -[3736.34 --> 3737.26] There are some truths -[3737.26 --> 3738.42] that you have to know -[3738.42 --> 3741.36] that will help you make sense of this whole thing. -[3741.36 --> 3746.48] That will help you understand the greater truth of this whole world -[3746.48 --> 3748.30] and where history is heading. -[3749.36 --> 3752.86] And one of the warning signs that Paul says -[3752.86 --> 3756.64] is to be on the lookout for that rebellion. -[3756.64 --> 3758.22] Now, -[3758.98 --> 3761.48] that might be a strange word to you, -[3761.56 --> 3762.94] especially in this context, -[3763.04 --> 3767.98] as you know that the Christians are being persecuted by the Roman Empire. -[3768.66 --> 3770.78] And if you are a Star Wars fan, -[3770.88 --> 3772.64] you know that empire is bad -[3772.64 --> 3774.34] and the rebellion is good. -[3776.04 --> 3777.58] But that's not true in this text. -[3778.10 --> 3780.82] The rebellion is not good. -[3780.82 --> 3782.54] The word rebellion here -[3782.54 --> 3786.98] is the word from where we get the word for apostasy. -[3787.88 --> 3788.10] Right? -[3788.12 --> 3789.96] It's the word that's used in the Bible -[3789.96 --> 3793.14] to tell of a religious crisis -[3793.14 --> 3795.90] that will face God's people. -[3796.76 --> 3800.58] Apostasy is falling away into unbelief. -[3801.70 --> 3801.84] Right? -[3801.84 --> 3802.82] And so there's a crisis. -[3803.10 --> 3805.12] This rebellion will be an apostasy -[3805.12 --> 3807.34] of a whole slew of people -[3807.34 --> 3809.78] who everyone thought were Christians. -[3810.38 --> 3811.26] But turns out, -[3811.94 --> 3812.92] they've fallen away. -[3813.48 --> 3814.12] They don't believe. -[3814.88 --> 3817.28] Jesus actually talks about this same thing -[3817.28 --> 3818.72] in Matthew 24. -[3819.42 --> 3820.38] Jesus says, -[3820.72 --> 3823.22] when he's discussing the end times and last days, -[3823.76 --> 3824.86] at that time, -[3825.22 --> 3827.50] many will turn away from the faith -[3827.50 --> 3830.12] and will betray and hate each other. -[3830.12 --> 3830.84] Right? -[3832.04 --> 3833.06] At some point, -[3833.76 --> 3835.96] there will be a mass -[3835.96 --> 3840.28] and noticeable turn away from true belief. -[3841.30 --> 3842.00] Right? -[3842.02 --> 3843.28] That's one of the markers -[3843.28 --> 3846.12] that the return of Christ is coming. -[3847.10 --> 3847.50] Right? -[3847.54 --> 3850.86] A turn from true faith to a false faith. -[3851.76 --> 3852.20] Right? -[3852.26 --> 3855.48] From a true Messiah to a false Messiah. -[3856.80 --> 3858.44] Now here's the tricky thing. -[3860.12 --> 3861.92] Throughout church history, -[3862.48 --> 3867.56] no apostate ever thought they were apostate. -[3869.02 --> 3869.74] Right? -[3869.80 --> 3871.00] The people who believe -[3871.00 --> 3873.86] and who will follow this false Christ -[3873.86 --> 3874.78] will likely, -[3875.16 --> 3876.64] especially at first, -[3877.06 --> 3879.06] think they're following the true Christ. -[3880.32 --> 3882.40] They'll say things like, -[3882.90 --> 3886.74] this is what real faith looks like -[3886.74 --> 3887.90] in this hard moment. -[3887.90 --> 3891.48] This is what it really means -[3891.48 --> 3892.62] to be Christian -[3892.62 --> 3894.26] in the world right now. -[3895.38 --> 3896.72] They will say things like, -[3896.94 --> 3898.36] for such a time as this, -[3898.54 --> 3899.54] we have to do that. -[3901.42 --> 3901.94] Right? -[3901.98 --> 3902.74] They'll say things like, -[3902.90 --> 3903.98] it may not be -[3903.98 --> 3905.66] the best option, -[3906.18 --> 3907.66] but it's the only one -[3907.66 --> 3908.36] we really have. -[3910.28 --> 3910.80] Now, -[3911.14 --> 3911.90] a remnant, -[3912.12 --> 3912.52] right, -[3912.58 --> 3913.68] will not be deceived -[3913.68 --> 3915.32] and they will know the truth, -[3915.96 --> 3918.18] but especially at first, -[3919.28 --> 3920.40] the apostates -[3920.40 --> 3922.32] won't realize it. -[3923.04 --> 3924.74] Those who fall to the rebellion -[3924.74 --> 3925.60] won't know -[3925.60 --> 3927.20] that's what is happening. -[3927.72 --> 3928.86] And eventually, -[3929.70 --> 3932.34] even if they figure it out, -[3932.90 --> 3934.08] they won't care. -[3936.08 --> 3936.72] Right? -[3936.72 --> 3937.04] Now, -[3937.08 --> 3937.92] the apostasy, -[3938.34 --> 3939.00] this rebellion, -[3939.22 --> 3940.78] will either coincide with, -[3940.90 --> 3941.68] Paul says, -[3941.84 --> 3943.64] or will most likely -[3943.64 --> 3944.90] be caused by -[3944.90 --> 3946.16] the revealing -[3946.16 --> 3947.46] of the man -[3947.46 --> 3948.62] of lawlessness. -[3949.66 --> 3949.88] Now, -[3949.96 --> 3951.10] some translations -[3951.10 --> 3951.76] of the Bible, -[3951.88 --> 3952.26] if you're reading -[3952.26 --> 3952.82] a different one -[3952.82 --> 3953.68] than what we have here, -[3954.04 --> 3955.08] might say the man -[3955.08 --> 3955.44] of lawlessness -[3955.44 --> 3956.30] there. -[3957.58 --> 3958.52] Bible scholars -[3958.52 --> 3959.30] will tell you -[3959.30 --> 3960.86] that this is -[3960.86 --> 3961.58] probably -[3961.58 --> 3962.78] the only -[3962.78 --> 3964.10] explicit reference -[3964.10 --> 3965.88] in Paul's writing -[3965.88 --> 3966.70] to -[3966.70 --> 3968.38] what you might know -[3968.38 --> 3969.04] by the name -[3969.04 --> 3970.08] Antichrist. -[3971.56 --> 3972.20] Antichrist -[3972.20 --> 3972.92] is a figure -[3972.92 --> 3974.40] that's talked about -[3974.40 --> 3976.02] more in John's writing, -[3976.10 --> 3977.00] the Apostles John, -[3977.38 --> 3978.56] both as a type, -[3978.74 --> 3979.62] and so in the three -[3979.62 --> 3980.78] letters of John, -[3981.14 --> 3981.98] we hear about -[3981.98 --> 3983.26] Antichrists, -[3983.80 --> 3984.88] and Antichrists -[3984.88 --> 3985.92] are anyone -[3985.92 --> 3987.32] who actively, -[3987.90 --> 3989.14] usually forcibly, -[3989.52 --> 3990.72] oppose the teaching -[3990.72 --> 3991.82] and the transformation -[3991.82 --> 3993.60] and the exalting -[3993.60 --> 3994.54] of Jesus. -[3995.94 --> 3997.02] And as a sort of -[3997.02 --> 3998.34] archetype, -[3998.64 --> 3999.54] as a sort of -[3999.54 --> 4000.92] ultimate revealing -[4000.92 --> 4001.60] of that, -[4001.70 --> 4002.04] there is -[4002.04 --> 4003.70] an ultimate -[4003.70 --> 4004.88] Antichrist, -[4005.74 --> 4006.42] an individual -[4006.42 --> 4008.06] who is this -[4008.06 --> 4008.90] man of -[4008.90 --> 4009.80] lawlessness. -[4010.08 --> 4011.32] The book of Revelation -[4011.32 --> 4012.58] paints a picture -[4012.58 --> 4013.68] of an Antichrist -[4013.68 --> 4014.62] into which -[4014.62 --> 4015.36] all of these -[4015.36 --> 4016.36] other ideas -[4016.36 --> 4017.58] are poured -[4017.58 --> 4018.88] into one person. -[4018.88 --> 4021.88] And that's why, -[4022.00 --> 4023.28] Paul is saying, -[4023.72 --> 4024.78] knowing the truth, -[4025.18 --> 4025.98] why knowing -[4025.98 --> 4027.30] this is true -[4027.30 --> 4028.22] matters. -[4029.26 --> 4030.68] Because the singular -[4030.68 --> 4031.70] responsibility -[4031.70 --> 4033.04] and task of Satan, -[4033.30 --> 4033.82] if we were to -[4033.82 --> 4034.62] boil it all down, -[4034.84 --> 4035.94] is to deceive, -[4037.86 --> 4038.52] is to trick, -[4039.02 --> 4039.76] to lie. -[4040.56 --> 4041.88] And he wants you -[4041.88 --> 4042.82] to fall -[4042.82 --> 4043.84] away -[4043.84 --> 4045.06] by this -[4045.06 --> 4046.24] counterfeit. -[4046.24 --> 4048.06] Now notice -[4048.06 --> 4049.48] in chapter 1, -[4050.00 --> 4050.92] verse 7, -[4051.52 --> 4052.42] we read, -[4052.78 --> 4053.76] this will happen -[4053.76 --> 4054.70] when the Lord -[4054.70 --> 4056.08] Jesus is revealed. -[4057.34 --> 4057.56] Right? -[4057.70 --> 4058.20] Revealed -[4058.20 --> 4059.12] is the word -[4059.12 --> 4059.72] apocalypse. -[4060.06 --> 4060.40] Josh, -[4060.54 --> 4061.12] last week, -[4061.42 --> 4062.40] talked about that -[4062.40 --> 4063.14] for us -[4063.14 --> 4063.66] and we dove -[4063.66 --> 4064.50] deep into that. -[4064.62 --> 4065.08] Apocalypse -[4065.08 --> 4066.68] means revelation. -[4067.64 --> 4067.96] Jesus -[4067.96 --> 4069.20] is the apocalypse -[4069.20 --> 4070.32] of God. -[4070.42 --> 4071.30] He is the true -[4071.30 --> 4072.00] and full -[4072.00 --> 4072.80] revelation. -[4073.16 --> 4074.04] We know him -[4074.04 --> 4075.42] through the revelation -[4075.42 --> 4076.68] of the word -[4076.68 --> 4078.30] eternally made -[4078.30 --> 4079.20] known to us -[4079.20 --> 4080.64] through the apostolic -[4080.64 --> 4081.30] word. -[4082.60 --> 4083.02] And now, -[4083.16 --> 4083.64] notice, -[4083.88 --> 4084.86] in our text, -[4085.66 --> 4086.50] in verse 3, -[4087.06 --> 4088.32] the man of lawlessness -[4088.32 --> 4089.46] will also -[4089.46 --> 4090.60] be revealed. -[4091.74 --> 4093.04] And then in verse 6, -[4093.14 --> 4093.46] we read, -[4093.74 --> 4094.56] so that he may be -[4094.56 --> 4095.70] revealed at the -[4095.70 --> 4096.42] proper time. -[4096.70 --> 4097.10] And again, -[4097.18 --> 4097.72] in verse 8, -[4097.92 --> 4098.84] the lawless one -[4098.84 --> 4100.08] will be revealed. -[4100.30 --> 4101.24] There's that word again. -[4102.40 --> 4102.54] Right? -[4102.54 --> 4103.76] The antichrist -[4103.76 --> 4105.98] is an antirevelation. -[4105.98 --> 4107.66] It's a counterfeit -[4107.66 --> 4110.10] designed to deceive -[4110.10 --> 4111.78] and steal away -[4111.78 --> 4112.80] those who believe. -[4114.20 --> 4115.08] Verse 9 and 10 -[4115.08 --> 4115.62] say that -[4115.62 --> 4116.30] he, -[4116.62 --> 4117.58] the man of lawlessness, -[4117.88 --> 4120.22] this antirevelation, -[4120.66 --> 4122.14] will use all sorts -[4122.14 --> 4122.80] of displays -[4122.80 --> 4123.66] of power -[4123.66 --> 4124.84] through signs -[4124.84 --> 4125.56] and wonders -[4125.56 --> 4126.82] that serve the lie -[4126.82 --> 4128.10] and all the ways -[4128.10 --> 4128.96] that wickedness -[4128.96 --> 4130.12] deceives those -[4130.12 --> 4132.10] who are perishing. -[4138.28 --> 4139.04] Maybe, -[4139.30 --> 4141.30] maybe, -[4141.46 --> 4142.46] one of the ways -[4142.46 --> 4144.08] that wickedness -[4144.08 --> 4145.12] deceives those -[4145.12 --> 4146.16] who are perishing -[4146.16 --> 4149.18] is by giving you -[4149.18 --> 4150.42] everything you thought -[4150.42 --> 4150.90] you wanted. -[4154.50 --> 4155.26] Maybe, -[4155.68 --> 4157.24] one of the ways -[4157.24 --> 4158.06] that wickedness -[4158.06 --> 4158.80] deceives -[4158.80 --> 4160.32] is by surrounding -[4160.32 --> 4161.94] you with a culture -[4161.94 --> 4162.78] that says, -[4163.02 --> 4163.70] this is normal. -[4164.68 --> 4165.88] This is no big deal. -[4166.78 --> 4167.92] Stop caring so much -[4167.92 --> 4168.58] about those silly -[4168.58 --> 4169.36] little things. -[4170.48 --> 4170.58] Right? -[4170.62 --> 4171.64] Get on the right side. -[4173.72 --> 4174.28] Or, -[4174.46 --> 4174.78] maybe, -[4175.14 --> 4176.38] wickedness deceives -[4176.38 --> 4177.66] by making you think -[4177.66 --> 4178.48] that wicked -[4178.48 --> 4180.22] doesn't actually exist. -[4181.34 --> 4182.68] That moral -[4182.68 --> 4183.88] and morality -[4183.88 --> 4185.18] isn't real -[4185.18 --> 4186.34] but a social construct. -[4186.34 --> 4186.46] corrupt. -[4187.54 --> 4188.10] Or, -[4188.26 --> 4189.62] even more perniciously, -[4189.70 --> 4190.08] I think, -[4190.16 --> 4191.28] for us here -[4191.28 --> 4191.86] this morning, -[4192.36 --> 4192.92] maybe, -[4192.92 --> 4195.00] wickedness deceives -[4195.00 --> 4196.26] by saying -[4196.26 --> 4197.08] that moral -[4197.08 --> 4198.38] is all there is. -[4199.90 --> 4201.02] That morality -[4201.02 --> 4202.06] is all that matters. -[4202.48 --> 4202.76] Good, -[4203.02 --> 4203.34] bad, -[4203.48 --> 4204.18] you judge -[4204.18 --> 4205.02] that fiercely. -[4206.14 --> 4207.20] Cancel quickly -[4207.20 --> 4208.40] and write them off -[4208.40 --> 4208.96] absolutely. -[4208.96 --> 4212.12] Maybe that's -[4212.12 --> 4212.84] the pernicious -[4212.84 --> 4214.04] effect of wickedness. -[4215.74 --> 4216.64] Paul writes, -[4216.74 --> 4217.26] they perish -[4217.26 --> 4218.22] because they refuse -[4218.22 --> 4219.66] to love the truth -[4219.66 --> 4221.10] and so be saved. -[4222.24 --> 4223.24] And so for us, -[4223.36 --> 4224.56] that means only one thing. -[4225.36 --> 4226.32] Love the truth. -[4227.66 --> 4228.66] Love the revelation -[4228.66 --> 4229.34] of God -[4229.34 --> 4230.38] who is Jesus. -[4230.58 --> 4231.30] Love Jesus -[4231.30 --> 4232.58] with all your heart -[4232.58 --> 4233.38] and soul -[4233.38 --> 4233.96] and mind -[4233.96 --> 4234.56] and strength. -[4234.90 --> 4235.88] Love His word -[4235.88 --> 4236.92] and then -[4236.92 --> 4238.10] in so loving -[4238.10 --> 4239.46] and in so receiving -[4239.46 --> 4240.16] and being, -[4240.52 --> 4242.12] you will not be deceived. -[4243.90 --> 4244.10] Right? -[4244.14 --> 4244.78] That's the point -[4244.78 --> 4245.74] of all of this. -[4246.60 --> 4246.82] Right? -[4246.86 --> 4247.72] When you ask -[4247.72 --> 4248.92] what is true, -[4249.16 --> 4250.06] when you wrestle with -[4250.06 --> 4251.10] is this true, -[4251.48 --> 4252.96] God stands in front of you -[4252.96 --> 4253.40] and He says, -[4253.58 --> 4254.00] yes! -[4254.48 --> 4255.96] I am the way, -[4256.26 --> 4256.84] the truth, -[4256.92 --> 4257.86] and the life. -[4259.26 --> 4260.56] When you are wondering -[4260.56 --> 4262.08] is this really true, -[4262.48 --> 4263.50] go to the one -[4263.50 --> 4265.04] who defines reality. -[4265.04 --> 4267.28] Right? -[4267.32 --> 4268.64] That's the only way -[4268.64 --> 4269.38] to know -[4269.38 --> 4270.80] what is really true. -[4272.12 --> 4272.98] And when you are anxious -[4272.98 --> 4274.06] and when you are worried -[4274.06 --> 4274.98] about what is next -[4274.98 --> 4276.08] or what is coming, -[4276.46 --> 4277.28] go to the one -[4277.28 --> 4278.46] who directs history. -[4279.92 --> 4280.48] Right? -[4280.50 --> 4281.14] That's the point -[4281.14 --> 4281.88] of this text. -[4282.46 --> 4282.68] Right? -[4282.70 --> 4283.98] That's the big idea here. -[4284.22 --> 4284.32] Right? -[4284.34 --> 4285.16] That God, -[4285.40 --> 4286.82] in His grace, -[4287.30 --> 4288.28] tells believers -[4288.28 --> 4289.74] what to expect -[4289.74 --> 4291.02] so that you won't -[4291.02 --> 4291.62] be deceived -[4291.62 --> 4293.00] and so that you -[4293.00 --> 4293.66] can live -[4293.66 --> 4294.34] with eyes -[4294.34 --> 4295.00] wide, -[4295.30 --> 4295.74] open. -[4297.74 --> 4297.96] Right? -[4298.02 --> 4298.32] God, -[4298.48 --> 4299.48] in His grace, -[4299.90 --> 4301.08] is telling you -[4301.08 --> 4301.86] the truth -[4301.86 --> 4304.02] so that you can see -[4304.02 --> 4304.62] clearly -[4304.62 --> 4306.28] what is true. -[4308.68 --> 4309.26] Now, -[4309.28 --> 4309.94] notice this -[4309.94 --> 4311.32] carefully. -[4313.70 --> 4315.00] This warning, -[4316.18 --> 4316.48] right, -[4316.54 --> 4317.40] this truth, -[4317.76 --> 4319.12] can't be -[4319.12 --> 4320.00] for those -[4320.00 --> 4321.06] who are perishing. -[4321.06 --> 4322.68] right? -[4322.68 --> 4323.72] To use Paul's language. -[4324.66 --> 4325.32] This warning -[4325.32 --> 4326.62] is for those -[4326.62 --> 4327.46] who believe -[4327.46 --> 4328.66] so that we will -[4328.66 --> 4329.42] not perish. -[4330.14 --> 4330.22] Right? -[4330.28 --> 4330.94] This warning -[4330.94 --> 4332.32] is a means -[4332.32 --> 4333.40] of perseverance. -[4334.06 --> 4334.68] It's a means -[4334.68 --> 4335.68] of keeping you -[4335.68 --> 4336.28] connected -[4336.28 --> 4337.48] to the truth. -[4337.78 --> 4338.36] The warning -[4338.36 --> 4338.94] itself -[4338.94 --> 4339.96] is a grace -[4339.96 --> 4340.94] of God -[4340.94 --> 4341.54] and God, -[4341.66 --> 4342.26] in His grace, -[4342.34 --> 4343.38] is saying to you -[4343.38 --> 4344.24] and He's saying -[4344.24 --> 4344.70] to me, -[4345.00 --> 4346.04] open your eyes, -[4346.82 --> 4347.94] open your mind, -[4347.94 --> 4349.14] open your heart -[4349.14 --> 4350.12] and know -[4350.12 --> 4351.08] that I -[4351.08 --> 4352.52] am God. -[4352.64 --> 4353.56] There is no other -[4353.56 --> 4354.82] like me. -[4356.40 --> 4357.30] And here's the thing, -[4357.58 --> 4357.74] right? -[4358.84 --> 4359.48] Sometimes, -[4359.74 --> 4360.84] sometimes, -[4361.02 --> 4362.06] we believe -[4362.06 --> 4362.96] or we're guilty -[4362.96 --> 4363.60] of thinking -[4363.60 --> 4364.80] that in order -[4364.80 --> 4365.58] to believe, -[4366.26 --> 4366.88] I have to shut -[4366.88 --> 4367.60] my brain off. -[4368.88 --> 4369.62] That faith -[4369.62 --> 4370.90] is how the opposite -[4370.90 --> 4371.72] of truth -[4371.72 --> 4372.62] or the opposite -[4372.62 --> 4373.56] of what can be -[4373.56 --> 4374.40] rationally -[4374.40 --> 4375.22] understood -[4375.22 --> 4376.28] and discerned. -[4376.34 --> 4377.04] And absolutely, -[4377.22 --> 4377.98] there is a mystery -[4377.98 --> 4379.10] beyond comprehension -[4379.10 --> 4380.16] in relationship -[4380.16 --> 4380.70] to God. -[4381.86 --> 4382.16] Right? -[4382.42 --> 4383.32] But the impact -[4383.32 --> 4384.26] of that way -[4384.26 --> 4384.74] of thinking -[4384.74 --> 4385.18] sometimes -[4385.18 --> 4386.28] is when we -[4386.28 --> 4386.92] struggle with -[4386.92 --> 4387.92] questions like, -[4388.02 --> 4388.78] is it true? -[4388.86 --> 4390.02] Is any of this true? -[4390.40 --> 4391.22] We kind of tell -[4391.22 --> 4391.98] ourselves we've got -[4391.98 --> 4392.68] to shut our brain -[4392.68 --> 4393.30] down and just -[4393.30 --> 4394.00] believe harder. -[4397.38 --> 4398.30] But hear me say -[4398.30 --> 4399.02] this very clearly. -[4400.28 --> 4400.88] Christianity, -[4401.74 --> 4402.60] the gospel, -[4402.82 --> 4403.34] God's word, -[4403.92 --> 4404.52] God Himself, -[4404.52 --> 4406.36] is not afraid -[4406.36 --> 4407.40] of your questions. -[4410.40 --> 4410.52] Right? -[4410.60 --> 4411.60] Use your doubts -[4411.60 --> 4412.56] to go deeper -[4412.56 --> 4413.66] into faith. -[4414.46 --> 4415.24] God can handle -[4415.24 --> 4415.80] your fear. -[4416.84 --> 4417.84] Jesus Himself -[4417.84 --> 4419.48] prays in John 17, -[4419.92 --> 4420.90] sanctify them -[4420.90 --> 4421.94] by your truth. -[4422.34 --> 4423.14] Your word -[4423.14 --> 4424.44] is truth. -[4426.56 --> 4426.90] And so, -[4427.02 --> 4427.64] hear Jesus -[4427.64 --> 4428.70] standing in front -[4428.70 --> 4429.58] of you this morning, -[4429.92 --> 4430.80] right now, -[4431.02 --> 4431.84] saying to -[4431.84 --> 4432.88] those of you, -[4433.02 --> 4433.94] to anyone -[4433.94 --> 4435.40] who has ever said, -[4435.72 --> 4436.26] what if this -[4436.26 --> 4436.88] Jesus thing -[4436.88 --> 4437.56] isn't true? -[4438.38 --> 4439.78] Jesus is saying, -[4439.98 --> 4441.04] I am the way. -[4441.80 --> 4444.08] I am truth. -[4444.94 --> 4446.10] Come to me -[4446.10 --> 4447.78] with all your anxieties, -[4447.78 --> 4448.96] with all your worries. -[4449.10 --> 4449.66] Come to me -[4449.66 --> 4450.44] with your tears -[4450.44 --> 4451.42] and your fears -[4451.42 --> 4452.38] and your loneliness. -[4452.62 --> 4453.12] Come to me -[4453.12 --> 4454.06] with your heartache -[4454.06 --> 4454.98] and your hurt. -[4454.98 --> 4457.00] And I will give you -[4457.00 --> 4458.20] rest. -[4460.20 --> 4462.74] To all of your questions, -[4463.94 --> 4465.86] Jesus is the answer. -[4466.66 --> 4468.86] To all of your doubts, -[4469.38 --> 4471.18] Jesus is the truth. -[4472.14 --> 4473.92] And to all of your wondering, -[4474.88 --> 4476.52] Jesus has the words -[4476.52 --> 4478.50] of eternal life. -[4479.00 --> 4481.36] Come to Him. -[4481.36 --> 4483.92] even -[4483.92 --> 4485.48] to the questions -[4485.48 --> 4486.32] about the end -[4486.32 --> 4487.36] of all of this. -[4488.42 --> 4489.40] Even questions -[4489.40 --> 4490.30] about what the end -[4490.30 --> 4491.22] will be like -[4491.22 --> 4492.82] at and in -[4492.82 --> 4493.54] and through -[4493.54 --> 4494.40] and after -[4494.40 --> 4495.94] the return of Jesus. -[4496.46 --> 4497.44] God tells us -[4497.44 --> 4498.56] what to expect -[4498.56 --> 4500.06] and what to -[4500.06 --> 4501.98] project -[4501.98 --> 4502.90] and protect -[4502.90 --> 4503.98] so that -[4503.98 --> 4505.24] you aren't -[4505.24 --> 4505.90] deceived. -[4506.80 --> 4507.54] So that you -[4507.54 --> 4508.12] aren't tricked -[4508.12 --> 4508.90] into following -[4508.90 --> 4509.88] some counterfeit -[4509.88 --> 4510.74] Christ, -[4511.26 --> 4511.88] deceived -[4511.88 --> 4512.80] by the promises -[4512.80 --> 4513.56] of a false -[4513.56 --> 4514.36] kingdom. -[4515.80 --> 4516.88] And until that day, -[4517.32 --> 4518.34] until that end, -[4518.50 --> 4519.74] Paul provides -[4519.74 --> 4520.22] for us -[4520.22 --> 4521.14] another comfort -[4521.14 --> 4522.52] and we'll start -[4522.52 --> 4523.52] wrapping up here. -[4524.64 --> 4525.94] In verse 5 -[4525.94 --> 4526.64] through 8, -[4527.32 --> 4528.32] he effectively -[4528.32 --> 4529.42] tells them, -[4529.84 --> 4530.94] I've already -[4530.94 --> 4531.74] told you this. -[4532.58 --> 4533.76] You should know this. -[4534.52 --> 4535.44] And then he adds, -[4535.84 --> 4537.02] and now you know -[4537.02 --> 4538.42] what is holding him back. -[4538.42 --> 4539.88] Somehow, -[4540.48 --> 4541.44] in some way, -[4541.62 --> 4542.70] the man of lawlessness -[4542.70 --> 4544.16] and the rebellion -[4544.16 --> 4545.90] is being restrained -[4545.90 --> 4546.66] right now. -[4547.56 --> 4548.14] Paul says, -[4548.52 --> 4550.26] the one who holds it back -[4550.26 --> 4551.84] will continue to do so -[4551.84 --> 4552.52] until he -[4552.52 --> 4553.76] is taken away. -[4555.24 --> 4556.36] Paul tells them, -[4556.60 --> 4557.38] you know what -[4557.38 --> 4558.68] and you know who. -[4560.62 --> 4560.88] Now, -[4561.42 --> 4563.46] the problem is -[4563.46 --> 4565.24] that they might know that, -[4565.86 --> 4566.78] but we don't. -[4566.78 --> 4569.24] scholars suggest -[4569.24 --> 4570.40] that Paul -[4570.40 --> 4571.22] is referring -[4571.22 --> 4572.24] to something -[4572.24 --> 4573.24] that he told them -[4573.24 --> 4574.10] while he was with them. -[4574.96 --> 4575.78] To a teaching -[4575.78 --> 4576.62] that he gave them -[4576.62 --> 4577.62] that isn't written down -[4577.62 --> 4578.54] for us. -[4578.70 --> 4579.04] And so, -[4579.34 --> 4580.50] we have to figure it out. -[4580.58 --> 4581.24] We have to discern. -[4581.98 --> 4582.78] And I want to be candid -[4582.78 --> 4583.10] with you, -[4583.18 --> 4584.22] there is a huge debate -[4584.22 --> 4585.64] throughout church history -[4585.64 --> 4586.50] and in scholarship -[4586.50 --> 4588.18] and in contemporary preaching -[4588.18 --> 4589.38] about just exactly -[4589.38 --> 4590.52] what is going on here. -[4590.96 --> 4591.32] And so, -[4591.38 --> 4592.34] I'm going to give to you -[4592.34 --> 4592.86] what I think -[4592.86 --> 4593.66] is the best -[4593.66 --> 4595.22] approximation of it, -[4595.22 --> 4595.80] but I would love -[4595.80 --> 4596.62] to hear your ideas -[4596.62 --> 4597.86] and I'm sure -[4597.86 --> 4599.06] that when we record -[4599.06 --> 4600.30] a podcast later this week, -[4600.60 --> 4601.60] it will be very interesting -[4601.60 --> 4602.56] as we bounce it around. -[4605.58 --> 4606.10] But, -[4606.44 --> 4609.68] as we have the question -[4609.68 --> 4611.56] of who is -[4611.56 --> 4613.02] the true thing -[4613.02 --> 4614.36] or the true one -[4614.36 --> 4616.22] that is holding back -[4616.22 --> 4617.66] the power of lawlessness -[4617.66 --> 4619.22] already at work, -[4619.30 --> 4620.18] we ask ourselves, -[4620.18 --> 4621.94] which or what -[4621.94 --> 4623.62] is this person -[4623.62 --> 4625.16] that is now -[4625.16 --> 4625.90] currently -[4625.90 --> 4628.22] holding that back? -[4629.44 --> 4630.04] And again, -[4630.10 --> 4630.52] I think that -[4630.52 --> 4631.74] the best answer -[4631.74 --> 4633.46] is an approximation -[4633.46 --> 4634.70] from three different -[4634.70 --> 4636.24] places in Scripture. -[4636.44 --> 4636.62] And so, -[4636.72 --> 4637.50] let me tie those -[4637.50 --> 4638.58] all together for you. -[4639.36 --> 4639.90] First, -[4640.48 --> 4641.70] in Matthew 16, -[4642.26 --> 4643.22] Jesus says -[4643.22 --> 4644.20] to Peter, -[4644.40 --> 4645.48] I tell you -[4645.48 --> 4646.76] that you are Peter -[4646.76 --> 4648.42] and on this rock -[4648.42 --> 4649.58] I will build -[4649.58 --> 4650.32] my church -[4650.32 --> 4651.38] and the gates -[4651.38 --> 4652.20] of Hades -[4652.20 --> 4653.86] will not overcome it. -[4655.86 --> 4657.52] The power of Hades, -[4657.76 --> 4658.56] the gates of Hades, -[4658.68 --> 4659.64] the work of Satan -[4659.64 --> 4661.48] will not overcome -[4661.48 --> 4662.72] the church. -[4664.58 --> 4665.60] The church. -[4666.80 --> 4667.40] Second, -[4667.74 --> 4669.26] in Mark 13, -[4669.40 --> 4669.84] 10, -[4670.60 --> 4671.62] when Jesus -[4671.62 --> 4672.66] is discussing -[4672.66 --> 4674.42] when the end -[4674.42 --> 4675.18] will come, -[4675.50 --> 4676.18] he says -[4676.18 --> 4677.38] to his disciples -[4677.38 --> 4679.00] that the gospel -[4679.00 --> 4680.70] must first be preached -[4680.70 --> 4681.98] to all nations. -[4684.22 --> 4684.48] So, -[4684.56 --> 4685.24] right now, -[4685.62 --> 4686.50] the gospel -[4686.50 --> 4688.38] is being preached -[4688.38 --> 4690.44] and it's holding back -[4690.44 --> 4691.58] the deceiver -[4691.58 --> 4692.98] because it hasn't yet -[4692.98 --> 4694.44] reached all nations. -[4694.58 --> 4695.82] The truth of Jesus -[4695.82 --> 4696.94] being proclaimed -[4696.94 --> 4698.44] in the world -[4698.44 --> 4701.18] and part of its effect -[4701.18 --> 4703.54] is restraining evil, -[4703.76 --> 4704.44] holding back -[4704.44 --> 4705.10] the power -[4705.10 --> 4706.28] of lawlessness -[4706.28 --> 4707.42] because the gospel -[4707.42 --> 4709.14] reveals truth. -[4710.92 --> 4711.46] And then third, -[4712.40 --> 4714.44] in Revelation 20, -[4714.64 --> 4715.90] verse 1 and 3, -[4716.64 --> 4717.58] we read, -[4718.60 --> 4719.68] I saw an angel -[4719.68 --> 4720.44] coming down -[4720.44 --> 4721.08] out of heaven -[4721.08 --> 4722.06] having the keys -[4722.06 --> 4723.18] to the abyss -[4723.18 --> 4724.62] and holding in his hand -[4724.62 --> 4725.64] a great chain. -[4726.04 --> 4727.70] He seized the dragon, -[4727.90 --> 4728.96] that ancient serpent -[4728.96 --> 4730.06] who is the devil -[4730.06 --> 4730.94] or Satan, -[4730.94 --> 4732.06] and bound him -[4732.06 --> 4733.20] for a thousand years -[4733.20 --> 4734.14] and threw him -[4734.14 --> 4735.24] into the abyss -[4735.24 --> 4735.92] and locked -[4735.92 --> 4737.40] and sealed it over him -[4737.40 --> 4738.32] to keep him -[4738.32 --> 4739.22] from deceiving -[4739.22 --> 4740.58] the nations anymore -[4740.58 --> 4742.16] until the thousand years -[4742.16 --> 4742.64] were ended. -[4743.32 --> 4744.02] After that, -[4744.10 --> 4745.26] he must be set free -[4745.26 --> 4746.52] for a short time. -[4748.90 --> 4749.22] And so, -[4749.92 --> 4751.26] maybe the angel -[4751.26 --> 4752.86] of Revelation 20 -[4752.86 --> 4753.78] is the one -[4753.78 --> 4754.74] holding back -[4754.74 --> 4756.12] along with the church -[4756.12 --> 4757.28] and the gospel. -[4757.82 --> 4758.08] And now, -[4758.16 --> 4759.32] I can also add -[4759.32 --> 4760.20] that some people -[4760.20 --> 4760.90] understand -[4760.90 --> 4762.50] the angel here -[4762.50 --> 4764.90] to be a literary device -[4764.90 --> 4766.48] consistent in the long line -[4766.48 --> 4767.54] of literary devices -[4767.54 --> 4768.76] in the book of Revelation -[4768.76 --> 4769.88] as a reference -[4769.88 --> 4772.56] to the active providence -[4772.56 --> 4773.26] of God. -[4774.44 --> 4775.52] Point is, -[4776.24 --> 4777.22] God himself, -[4777.84 --> 4779.20] either through his active -[4779.20 --> 4780.42] providential will -[4780.42 --> 4782.00] or through his armies -[4782.00 --> 4782.68] of angels, -[4783.16 --> 4784.32] has the dragon -[4784.32 --> 4785.20] restrained. -[4785.20 --> 4787.36] And so, -[4787.44 --> 4788.18] there's three things -[4788.18 --> 4789.40] there that we pull together. -[4790.06 --> 4790.52] The church, -[4791.08 --> 4792.40] the preaching of the gospel, -[4792.86 --> 4793.56] and the power -[4793.56 --> 4795.12] and protection of God -[4795.12 --> 4796.78] by his providence -[4796.78 --> 4797.74] is how, -[4797.90 --> 4798.86] right now, -[4799.00 --> 4800.38] evil is restrained -[4800.38 --> 4801.02] and how, -[4801.18 --> 4801.74] right now, -[4801.92 --> 4803.20] Satan is bound. -[4804.70 --> 4805.32] And so, -[4805.68 --> 4806.00] church, -[4806.54 --> 4808.54] this is your mission. -[4809.88 --> 4811.16] This is your purpose. -[4811.30 --> 4812.52] This is what you get to do. -[4812.52 --> 4813.28] Right? -[4813.34 --> 4814.20] To be the church -[4814.20 --> 4815.46] is to preach the gospel -[4815.46 --> 4817.48] in a way that transforms lives -[4817.48 --> 4818.98] and transforms the world. -[4820.16 --> 4820.40] Right? -[4820.46 --> 4821.40] Your message -[4821.40 --> 4822.48] literally -[4822.48 --> 4823.62] binds -[4823.62 --> 4824.38] evil. -[4826.02 --> 4827.28] Do you hear that? -[4828.56 --> 4830.44] And as you go -[4830.44 --> 4831.18] to declare -[4831.18 --> 4832.62] this message -[4832.62 --> 4833.80] into the world, -[4834.12 --> 4835.34] know that you go -[4835.34 --> 4836.10] in -[4836.10 --> 4836.90] and with -[4836.90 --> 4837.92] and full of -[4837.92 --> 4838.64] the power -[4838.64 --> 4839.78] and protection -[4839.78 --> 4840.58] of God. -[4840.58 --> 4840.62] God, -[4841.14 --> 4843.24] this is what -[4843.24 --> 4844.68] you now do -[4844.68 --> 4845.90] because this is now -[4845.90 --> 4847.04] what God is doing -[4847.04 --> 4848.44] through you. -[4849.76 --> 4850.30] Nothing -[4850.30 --> 4851.36] surprises -[4851.36 --> 4852.48] God -[4852.48 --> 4853.06] and you -[4853.06 --> 4853.88] are held -[4853.88 --> 4854.68] in his -[4854.68 --> 4855.38] will. -[4855.54 --> 4856.44] That's what providence -[4856.44 --> 4856.84] means. -[4858.16 --> 4859.50] That's your confidence. -[4861.00 --> 4861.12] Right? -[4861.20 --> 4862.00] This is your -[4862.00 --> 4862.74] truth -[4862.74 --> 4863.36] and it's nothing -[4863.36 --> 4864.18] short of the truth -[4864.18 --> 4865.18] of the whole world. -[4866.46 --> 4867.40] How do we know -[4867.40 --> 4868.30] that this is true? -[4869.26 --> 4869.74] Well, -[4869.76 --> 4870.40] Jesus is true. -[4870.92 --> 4871.66] We trust him. -[4872.60 --> 4873.28] How do we know -[4873.28 --> 4873.92] that this is true? -[4874.22 --> 4874.38] Well, -[4874.44 --> 4875.28] God has told us -[4875.28 --> 4875.96] it's true -[4875.96 --> 4877.56] and we rely on that. -[4878.24 --> 4879.00] And how do we know -[4879.00 --> 4879.60] that this is true? -[4879.86 --> 4880.06] Well, -[4880.12 --> 4880.86] we live -[4880.86 --> 4881.82] in this -[4881.82 --> 4882.54] truth. -[4883.26 --> 4884.22] Our lives -[4884.22 --> 4885.28] are transformed -[4885.28 --> 4886.42] by it. -[4887.88 --> 4889.10] Open your eyes -[4889.10 --> 4889.90] wide -[4889.90 --> 4890.98] and do not -[4890.98 --> 4891.70] be deceived -[4891.70 --> 4893.22] but go. -[4893.94 --> 4894.30] Go. -[4894.86 --> 4895.34] Knowing -[4895.34 --> 4896.82] what to expect -[4896.82 --> 4897.84] and knowing -[4897.84 --> 4898.66] that you -[4898.66 --> 4899.38] go with -[4899.38 --> 4899.94] God. -[4900.40 --> 4900.94] Come what -[4900.94 --> 4901.30] may, -[4902.08 --> 4902.32] you -[4902.32 --> 4903.36] go with -[4903.36 --> 4903.76] God. -[4904.22 --> 4904.46] Amen? -[4905.46 --> 4905.86] Amen. -[4906.10 --> 4906.80] Let's pray together. -[4913.48 --> 4913.90] God, -[4913.98 --> 4914.74] we do not know -[4914.74 --> 4915.30] the day -[4915.30 --> 4916.58] or the hour -[4916.58 --> 4917.78] of your return. -[4918.70 --> 4919.56] Only you do. -[4919.56 --> 4920.06] God, -[4920.06 --> 4920.90] we do not know -[4920.90 --> 4921.70] that this is true. -[4921.70 --> 4922.62] But you have told us -[4922.62 --> 4923.76] what to watch out for. -[4924.76 --> 4925.86] And you have told us -[4925.86 --> 4926.06] what, -[4926.32 --> 4928.12] before that happens, -[4928.22 --> 4929.60] will have to happen. -[4929.60 --> 4931.70] And so, -[4931.94 --> 4932.32] now, -[4932.56 --> 4932.86] God, -[4933.46 --> 4934.34] we stand -[4934.34 --> 4935.00] in this -[4935.00 --> 4935.52] sure -[4935.52 --> 4936.44] truth. -[4937.50 --> 4938.58] We stand -[4938.58 --> 4939.22] in this -[4939.22 --> 4939.74] sure -[4939.74 --> 4940.72] reality. -[4941.40 --> 4942.06] We stand -[4942.06 --> 4943.02] in the confidence -[4943.02 --> 4944.64] of the gospel, -[4945.02 --> 4945.62] the confidence -[4945.62 --> 4946.72] of the truth -[4946.72 --> 4948.00] that your church -[4948.00 --> 4948.86] will never -[4948.86 --> 4950.18] be overcome -[4950.18 --> 4951.46] and that you -[4951.46 --> 4952.46] are working -[4952.46 --> 4953.72] in the world -[4953.72 --> 4954.46] right now, -[4954.74 --> 4955.44] right here, -[4955.82 --> 4956.52] through us. -[4956.52 --> 4958.68] And so, -[4958.80 --> 4959.20] embolden -[4959.20 --> 4960.32] our hearts, -[4960.82 --> 4961.20] strengthen -[4961.20 --> 4962.58] our faith, -[4962.74 --> 4963.50] and send us -[4963.50 --> 4964.60] out with this -[4964.60 --> 4965.46] message of hope -[4965.46 --> 4966.50] and love -[4966.50 --> 4967.32] that by it -[4967.32 --> 4968.70] the whole world -[4968.70 --> 4969.36] may know -[4969.36 --> 4970.46] that you -[4970.46 --> 4972.16] are God. -[4973.00 --> 4973.96] To the glory -[4973.96 --> 4974.88] of your name, -[4975.04 --> 4975.54] we pray, -[4975.88 --> 4976.58] in the power -[4976.58 --> 4977.26] of Jesus' -[4977.56 --> 4978.50] own perfection -[4978.50 --> 4979.70] in his life -[4979.70 --> 4980.30] and death -[4980.30 --> 4981.30] on the cross, -[4981.58 --> 4982.68] in the truth -[4982.68 --> 4983.66] of the resurrection -[4983.66 --> 4984.86] and in the -[4984.86 --> 4985.78] reality -[4985.78 --> 4986.82] of your -[4986.82 --> 4987.70] ascension, -[4988.28 --> 4988.86] we pray. -[4989.56 --> 4990.04] Amen -[4990.04 --> 4991.22] and amen. -[4991.22 --> 4991.38] Amen. -[5009.38 --> 5012.46] Come, Holy Spirit, -[5012.68 --> 5014.42] my soul of show, -[5014.42 --> 5015.74] you're going to be -[5015.74 --> 5016.96] with my fears -[5016.96 --> 5018.72] that I owe. -[5019.24 --> 5020.40] May doubt -[5020.40 --> 5021.52] the love -[5021.52 --> 5022.64] of Christ -[5022.64 --> 5023.62] for me -[5023.62 --> 5024.46] that my -[5024.46 --> 5026.14] debt is paid -[5026.14 --> 5027.20] that I've been -[5027.20 --> 5028.16] made free. -[5028.62 --> 5028.92] Oh, -[5029.04 --> 5029.64] come, -[5029.98 --> 5030.32] further, -[5030.80 --> 5032.92] in me reside -[5032.92 --> 5034.26] when the tender -[5034.26 --> 5035.24] cease -[5035.24 --> 5035.90] be my -[5035.90 --> 5037.46] faithful guide. -[5037.68 --> 5038.12] Show your -[5038.12 --> 5039.36] promises -[5039.36 --> 5040.98] for me, -[5041.02 --> 5041.66] secure, -[5041.66 --> 5043.58] for the battle -[5043.58 --> 5044.98] be my -[5044.98 --> 5047.20] heavenly soul. -[5047.20 --> 5048.88] Blessed -[5048.88 --> 5050.82] assurance -[5050.82 --> 5053.52] Jesus -[5053.52 --> 5056.58] is mine -[5056.58 --> 5058.58] for what a -[5058.58 --> 5058.98] forfeit -[5058.98 --> 5059.60] Lord, -[5059.68 --> 5061.10] take -[5061.10 --> 5062.52] the glory -[5062.52 --> 5064.02] divine -[5064.02 --> 5068.94] care of salvation -[5068.94 --> 5071.52] purges -[5071.52 --> 5073.36] the God -[5073.36 --> 5076.30] Lord of his -[5076.30 --> 5077.52] spirit -[5077.52 --> 5081.02] washed in his -[5081.02 --> 5081.98] life -[5081.98 --> 5083.30] God -[5083.30 --> 5083.98] and -[5083.98 --> 5085.38] God -[5085.38 --> 5085.94] to -[5085.94 --> 5087.20] the -[5087.20 --> 5087.94] Savior -[5087.94 --> 5088.30] of the -[5088.30 --> 5089.14] God -[5089.14 --> 5089.30] to -[5089.30 --> 5090.64] dispel my -[5090.64 --> 5091.26] thoughts -[5091.26 --> 5091.76] in the -[5091.76 --> 5093.28] blackest night -[5093.28 --> 5094.74] in darkest -[5094.74 --> 5095.64] hour -[5095.64 --> 5096.30] to my -[5096.30 --> 5096.88] soul -[5096.88 --> 5097.80] reveal -[5097.80 --> 5098.36] the -[5098.36 --> 5099.16] wounds -[5099.16 --> 5099.72] wish -[5099.72 --> 5100.80] all my -[5100.80 --> 5101.88] sorrows -[5101.88 --> 5102.36] did -[5102.36 --> 5103.30] impress -[5103.30 --> 5104.30] the -[5104.30 --> 5104.62] love -[5104.62 --> 5105.30] that -[5105.30 --> 5105.90] seal -[5105.90 --> 5106.42] is -[5106.42 --> 5106.48] in it -[5106.48 --> 5106.88] sleep -[5106.88 --> 5107.56] and -[5107.56 --> 5108.70] by your -[5108.70 --> 5109.24] power -[5109.24 --> 5109.66] to -[5109.66 --> 5109.90] his -[5109.90 --> 5110.46] grace -[5110.46 --> 5111.00] of -[5111.00 --> 5111.38] me -[5111.38 --> 5111.90] until -[5111.90 --> 5112.70] faith -[5112.70 --> 5113.74] beside -[5113.74 --> 5114.90] and prayer -[5114.90 --> 5115.96] be praised -[5115.96 --> 5117.72] when beholding -[5117.72 --> 5118.54] Jesus -[5118.54 --> 5119.46] days -[5119.46 --> 5119.96] to -[5119.96 --> 5121.18] day -[5121.18 --> 5122.78] blessed -[5122.78 --> 5123.50] and -[5123.50 --> 5124.78] assurance -[5124.78 --> 5127.38] Jesus -[5127.38 --> 5128.34] is -[5128.34 --> 5130.22] mine -[5130.22 --> 5132.22] this -[5132.22 --> 5133.22] my -[5133.22 --> 5134.22] story -[5134.22 --> 5135.22] is -[5135.22 --> 5136.22] the -[5136.22 --> 5137.22] glory -[5137.22 --> 5138.22] divine -[5138.22 --> 5140.70] care of -[5140.70 --> 5142.22] salvation -[5142.22 --> 5144.22] purges -[5144.22 --> 5145.22] the -[5145.22 --> 5146.22] song -[5146.22 --> 5148.22] born -[5149.22 --> 5149.96] of his -[5149.96 --> 5151.22] spirit -[5151.22 --> 5153.22] washed -[5153.22 --> 5154.22] in his -[5154.22 --> 5155.22] life -[5155.22 --> 5156.22] this -[5156.22 --> 5159.22] my -[5159.22 --> 5160.22] my -[5160.22 --> 5161.22] story -[5161.22 --> 5162.22] is -[5162.22 --> 5163.22] my -[5163.22 --> 5164.22] song -[5164.22 --> 5165.22] born -[5165.22 --> 5166.22] a -[5166.22 --> 5167.22] spirit -[5167.22 --> 5168.22] washed -[5168.22 --> 5169.22] in -[5169.22 --> 5170.22] blood -[5170.22 --> 5171.22] this -[5171.22 --> 5172.22] my -[5172.22 --> 5173.22] song -[5173.22 --> 5174.22] in -[5174.22 --> 5175.22] my -[5175.22 --> 5176.22] Savior -[5176.22 --> 5177.22] I -[5177.22 --> 5178.22] belong -[5178.22 --> 5179.22] this -[5179.22 --> 5180.22] my -[5180.22 --> 5181.22] song -[5181.22 --> 5182.22] born -[5182.22 --> 5183.22] of -[5183.22 --> 5184.22] spirit -[5184.22 --> 5185.22] washed -[5185.22 --> 5186.22] in -[5186.22 --> 5187.22] blood -[5187.22 --> 5189.22] in -[5189.22 --> 5190.22] blood -[5190.22 --> 5191.22] this -[5191.22 --> 5192.22] my -[5192.22 --> 5193.22] story -[5193.22 --> 5194.22] is -[5194.22 --> 5195.22] my -[5195.22 --> 5196.22] song -[5196.22 --> 5197.22] born -[5197.22 --> 5198.22] of -[5198.22 --> 5199.22] spirit -[5199.22 --> 5200.22] washed -[5200.22 --> 5201.22] in -[5201.22 --> 5202.22] blood -[5202.22 --> 5203.22] this -[5203.22 --> 5204.22] my -[5204.22 --> 5205.22] story -[5205.22 --> 5206.22] this -[5206.22 --> 5207.22] works -[5207.22 --> 5208.22] my -[5208.22 --> 5209.22] song -[5209.22 --> 5211.22] is -[5211.22 --> 5212.22] the -[5212.22 --> 5213.22] heart -[5213.22 --> 5214.22] the -[5214.22 --> 5215.22] sin -[5215.22 --> 5216.22] assuring -[5216.22 --> 5217.22] jesus -[5217.22 --> 5218.22] is -[5218.22 --> 5219.22] mine -[5219.22 --> 5220.22] oh -[5220.22 --> 5221.22] what a -[5221.22 --> 5222.22] fortune -[5222.22 --> 5223.22] of -[5223.22 --> 5224.22] glory -[5224.22 --> 5225.22] divine -[5225.22 --> 5226.22] he -[5226.22 --> 5227.22] is -[5227.22 --> 5232.22] is -[5232.22 --> 5236.22] Purchased our child -[5237.10 --> 5240.22] Born of his spirit -[5240.74 --> 5244.22] Washed in his blood -[5245.74 --> 5249.22] Born of his spirit -[5249.90 --> 5254.38] Washed in his blood -[5262.22 --> 5269.20] As you go this week -[5269.20 --> 5271.48] As you go sent by God -[5271.48 --> 5273.20] And commissioned by him -[5273.20 --> 5275.26] Go in the confidence -[5275.26 --> 5277.08] That he goes with you -[5277.08 --> 5281.14] Go in the full sense of his purpose -[5281.14 --> 5283.54] For you and through you -[5283.54 --> 5286.40] And so receive his blessing -[5286.40 --> 5289.10] For the journey of life and faith ahead -[5289.10 --> 5293.50] God go before you -[5293.50 --> 5294.50] To lead you -[5294.50 --> 5296.42] God go behind you -[5296.42 --> 5297.34] To protect you -[5297.34 --> 5299.08] God go beneath you -[5299.08 --> 5300.02] To support you -[5300.02 --> 5301.80] And God go beside you -[5301.80 --> 5302.90] To befriend you -[5302.90 --> 5305.48] Do not be afraid -[5305.48 --> 5309.46] The blessing of God -[5309.46 --> 5310.52] Come upon you today -[5310.52 --> 5313.30] Do not be afraid -[5313.30 --> 5314.60] But go -[5314.60 --> 5316.70] In peace -[5316.70 --> 5318.42] And confidence -[5318.42 --> 5319.42] To love -[5319.42 --> 5320.58] And serve -[5320.58 --> 5321.56] The Lord -[5321.56 --> 5322.82] Amen -[5322.82 --> 5324.82] Amen -[5324.82 --> 5325.82] Amen -[5326.08 --> 5326.76] Frederick -[5326.76 --> 5327.28] Amen -[5327.28 --> 5327.34] Amen -[5327.34 --> 5328.32] Amen -[5328.32 --> 5328.80] Amen -[5328.80 --> 5328.82] Amen -[5329.34 --> 5330.26] find -[5330.26 --> 5331.30] Amen -[5331.30 --> 5341.36] Amen -[5341.36 --> 5341.52] Amen -[5341.96 --> 5345.46] Be my guide -[5345.46 --> 5349.66] Be my guide, not a bigger hand, -[5349.88 --> 5354.58] if you buy your hand, you are strong and wise. -[5355.52 --> 5358.34] I want to trust in you, -[5358.56 --> 5363.10] and in all I do, bring you honor and praise. -[5363.58 --> 5366.52] How I love you, -[5367.92 --> 5371.54] great and mighty King. -[5371.54 --> 5374.26] You are faithful. -[5375.46 --> 5381.72] Through the ages you never dreamed. -[5384.96 --> 5388.68] Be my guide in the dark of night, -[5388.90 --> 5392.92] and I'll hear you like you are hope and true. -[5394.26 --> 5397.20] I want to trust in you, -[5397.20 --> 5401.20] and in all I do, bring you honor and praise. -[5402.28 --> 5405.20] How I love you, -[5405.46 --> 5409.72] great and mighty King. -[5410.72 --> 5412.90] You are faithful. -[5414.84 --> 5420.10] Through the ages you never dreamed. -[5420.10 --> 5425.36] Be my guide, not a bigger hand, -[5425.36 --> 5431.48] but I'll hear you like you are strong and good. -[5431.48 --> 5435.78] I want to trust in you, -[5435.78 --> 5440.04] when in all I do, bring you honor and praise. -[5440.04 --> 5448.30] How I love you, great and mighty King. -[5448.30 --> 5451.42] You are faithful. -[5451.42 --> 5459.68] through the ages you never dreamed. -[5459.68 --> 5464.80] How I love you, great and mighty King. -[5464.80 --> 5468.68] You are faithful. -[5468.68 --> 5476.94] Through the ages you never dreamed. -[5476.94 --> 5478.32] as you're faithful. -[5478.32 --> 5482.20] So, the violin starts with a line. -[5482.20 --> 5483.20] You are as faithful. -[5483.20 --> 5483.92] God, -[5483.92 --> 5484.20] will you, great and mighty様ous? -[5484.20 --> 5485.32] And then хват you will like. -[5486.32 --> 5489.04] He had heard of the men dance you never were- -[5493.48 --> 5495.74] Yeah. -[5495.74 --> 5525.72] Thank you. -[5525.74 --> 5555.72] Thank you. -[5555.74 --> 5585.72] Thank you. -[5585.74 --> 5615.72] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, May 26, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, May 26, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 4b08e696384d0b7c156e19e6b706fc80fc6454cf..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, May 26, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,80 +0,0 @@ -• Worship service -• Announcements (bottle campaign and worship service at Sunridge Gardens) -• Call to worship from Psalm 34 -• Scripture reading -• Time of personal and corporate worship -• Praise and worship of God -• Redemption and forgiveness through Christ -• Eternal life and freedom in Him -• Power, fire, and the gift of grace -• Hope arising from ashes -• Fear and loss vs. faith and trust -• Singing in love and praising God's faithfulness -• The speaker is singing or reciting praise to God. -• Safe Families Canada is mentioned as an organization that works with families and children to prevent them from entering care. -• Jennifer Gamache, the Lower Mainland Chapter Director for Safe Families Canada, will be speaking at the church next week. -• The goal of Safe Families is to help keep kids out of the foster care system by providing support to families in crisis before they reach a point where the state must intervene. -• The organization provides a network of people who can step in and provide assistance to families in need. -• Discussion of Safe Families and the importance of a wider circle of support for families going through uncertain circumstances -• Need for more people to host children and provide love and care -• Affirmations of nominees for council positions at Langley Emanuel -• Collection for the budget, announced by Deacon Yap -• Jesus and God are praised and invoked in prayer -• Discussion about a special gift that the speaker received as a child, a cat named Tiger -• Invitation to kids to join the gathering at the front of the room -• Introduction of the topic for the day: gifts, specifically focusing on the Holy Spirit -• Parenting can be a challenging and long-term process -• CLASIS meeting to support a sister church facing challenges with their pastor and community -• Request for prayer for Roswitha's health struggles and other personal issues -• Prayer for the synod and its officers -• Request for guidance, wisdom, and unity in the Christian Reformed Church -• Intercession for conflict and war, asking God to bring peace and restoration -• Prayer for sister churches facing challenges and their leaders -• Support for those hurting and struggling in various ways -• Graduation ceremonies and transition to new stages of life -• Prayer for individuals and church family members in need (Vera, Rose Vita) -• Pastor Kevin's upcoming studies at Acts Seminary -• Camps and youth programs -• Safe Families Canada and potential community needs -• Reading through the book of Romans, specifically chapter 16 -• The influence of a person's social network on their weight and happiness was studied through data analysis -• A friend's obesity increases one's likelihood of gaining weight by 45% -• A friend of a friend's obesity increases one's likelihood of gaining weight by 20% -• A friend of a friend of a friend's obesity increases one's likelihood of gaining weight by 10% -• Happiness is also contagious, with a friend's happiness increasing one's own happiness by 12% and a friend of a friend's happiness increasing it by 6% -• The Bible emphasizes the importance of community and relationships in shaping one's life -• Being created in God's image means being created for community and unity -• Surrounding oneself with wise people has a positive impact on one's own behavior and character -• As brothers and sisters in Christ, believers are connected as part of a larger body -• The body of Christ is not complete without its individual members playing their parts. -• Bad company can corrupt good character (1 Corinthians 15:33). -• Community and support are essential to one's faith and spiritual growth (Romans 16). -• Paul lists his co-laborers, dear friends, and supporters in Romans 16, who have influenced and shaped him. -• The importance of relationships and community in sustaining and shaping individuals in their faith journey. -• Examples of people who have played a significant role in Paul's life, including Priscilla and Aquila, Andronicus and Junia, the mother of Rufus, and Phoebe. -• The value of accountability, mutual encouragement, and support in achieving goals and living out one's faith. -• Paul mentions several women who have worked hard for him and the Roman church. -• Mary is likely one of the women mentioned, possibly the mother of Mark, the author of the second Gospel. -• These women, along with others such as Priscilla and Aquila, risked their lives for Paul and were imprisoned with him. -• The concept of "carrying each other's burdens" is discussed, referencing Galatians 6:2. -• Confession of sin is explored, referencing Psalm 32 and the idea that true confession involves sharing one's sins with another person. -• The importance of confessing sins to a brother -• The role of community in supporting faith and perseverance -• The concept of "priesthood of all believers" where everyone is called to be present with each other -• Christian friendship built on mutual support and celebration -• The difference between self-worth and being valued by others -• The athletic games analogy used in Hebrews 12 for perseverance and faith -• Being a Christian is like being surrounded by a cheering crowd, encouraging and supporting one another -• The church is a community that encourages its members into faith, perseverance, and growth through Christ -• The church includes all believers, both living and dead, from all of history, and all are called to encourage each other in their faith -• Speaking words of life and avoiding speaking death is crucial for building up the community -• The church is a gift of God's work through the Holy Spirit, not something earned or achieved by individuals -• The concept of community and relationships in faith -• Belonging to God and being part of a spiritual family -• Interconnectedness and mutual support among believers -• Celebrating each other and praising God together -• Prayer for unity, strength, and guidance in faith -• Encouragement to fellowship, pray for one another, and meet with prayer partners -• Blessings and protection from God in daily life -• Repetition of the word "amen" -• Prolonged repetition of the phrase "thank you" \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, May 26, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, May 26, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 14803951eb117eccc575165688b23ce0c0e466ae..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, May 26, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1056 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 92.00] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 122.00] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 152.00] Thank you. -[152.00 --> 154.00] Thank you. -[154.00 --> 156.00] Thank you. -[156.00 --> 158.00] Thank you. -[158.00 --> 160.00] Thank you. -[160.00 --> 162.00] Thank you. -[162.00 --> 168.00] Thank you. -[168.00 --> 173.36] Faith so weak that we could barely pray -[173.36 --> 178.30] But He heard every word, every whisper -[178.30 --> 184.88] Now those altars in the wilderness -[184.88 --> 191.46] Tell the story of His faithfulness -[191.46 --> 199.26] Never once did He fail and He never will -[199.26 --> 206.46] This is our God, this is who He is, He loves us -[206.46 --> 212.52] This is our God, this is what He does, He saves us -[212.52 --> 215.58] He pours the cross, we declare -[215.58 --> 218.66] Let heaven and earth proclaim -[218.66 --> 222.66] This is our God, King Jesus -[222.66 --> 228.58] Who pulled me out of that pit? -[228.58 --> 231.50] He did, He did -[231.50 --> 234.40] Who paid for all of our sin? -[235.08 --> 237.02] Nobody but Jesus -[237.02 --> 240.36] Who pulled me out of that pit? -[240.98 --> 243.52] He did, He did -[243.52 --> 246.42] Who paid for all of our sin? -[246.42 --> 248.42] Nobody but Jesus -[248.42 --> 252.42] Who rescued me from that grave? -[252.42 --> 254.42] Yahweh, Yahweh -[254.42 --> 258.34] Who gets the glory and praise? -[258.34 --> 260.42] Nobody but Jesus -[260.42 --> 264.42] Who rescued me from that grave? -[264.42 --> 266.42] Yahweh, Yahweh -[266.42 --> 270.34] Who gets the glory and praise? -[270.34 --> 272.34] Nobody but Him -[272.34 --> 273.34] Nobody but Him -[273.34 --> 277.34] This is our God, this is who He is, He loves us -[277.34 --> 283.34] This is our God, this is what He does, He saves us -[283.34 --> 289.34] He poured the cross, beat the grave, let heaven and earth proclaim -[289.34 --> 299.34] This is our God, King Jesus -[299.34 --> 301.34] Let heaven and earth proclaim -[301.34 --> 304.34] This is our God, King Jesus -[311.34 --> 316.34] Good morning. -[316.34 --> 325.94] Good morning. Welcome to worship this morning. A special welcome if you are a guest with us -[325.94 --> 332.82] this morning. My name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors here. We are very sparse this morning -[332.82 --> 340.78] in part because cadet camp and youth camp both were this weekend and so a number of our youth -[340.78 --> 346.00] and their leaders and some of their families now are also gathering for worship at their camp. -[346.50 --> 351.70] Although I do see all the cadets here at least half of them who were at cadet camp so they made -[351.70 --> 358.30] it so kudos to you bonus points to you guys for making it to church Sunday morning. But we're -[358.30 --> 364.86] still going to worship the Lord in earnest together. This is why we gather. Before we begin I have a -[364.86 --> 370.98] couple announcements just to share with you. First you may have seen it but at the Connect booth -[370.98 --> 379.44] we're in the midst of a bottle campaign which is something to support mothers in need and so -[379.44 --> 384.80] Brenda will be at the Connect booth following worship. You can connect with her. She can explain -[384.80 --> 392.48] what that looks like and you can participate in that there. As well next week Saturday we're hosting -[392.48 --> 398.80] Lord willing another worship service at Sunridge Gardens which is an old age retirement living home -[400.98 --> 405.28] to go there once a month to lead in worship and so if you're interested in participating in that -[405.28 --> 412.22] that starts at two o'clock next week Saturday and so please be ready to go there and keep your eye -[412.22 --> 418.54] into the midweek memo and the e-bulletin for more details on that. I think that's it for announcements -[418.54 --> 424.02] this morning and so I'm going to invite you as you're able to stand that we might be ushered into -[424.02 --> 431.58] God's presence together. Following the receiving of God's greeting I'm going to invite you just to -[431.58 --> 437.54] turn to those around you and welcome them in the name of the Lord to our worship together. Receive -[437.54 --> 446.40] the greeting of our good God. Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus -[446.40 --> 452.78] Christ, Son, and our Savior through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. -[476.40 --> 483.40] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 34. I will exalt the Lord at all times. -[483.40 --> 488.40] His praise will always be on my lips. My soul will boast in the Lord. Let the afflicted -[488.40 --> 490.42] heal of the Holy Spirit. Amen. -[497.40 --> 505.40] Our call to worship this morning comes from Psalm 34. I will exalt the Lord at all times. -[505.40 --> 510.40] His praise will always be on my lips. My soul will boast in the Lord. Let the afflicted heal of the Lord. -[510.40 --> 514.44] in the Lord. Let the afflicted hear and rejoice. -[515.22 --> 518.60] Glorify the Lord with me. Let us exalt his name -[518.60 --> 522.58] together. With those words -[522.58 --> 526.18] let us enter a time of personal and corporate worship to the Lord. -[540.40 --> 543.78] A thousand generations -[543.78 --> 547.26] upon your Lamb in worship -[547.26 --> 552.36] will sing the song of ages to the Lamb. -[554.22 --> 557.10] And all the God before us -[557.10 --> 560.10] and all the will of thee -[560.10 --> 564.72] will sing the song of ages to the Lamb. -[565.72 --> 569.72] Your being is the highest -[569.72 --> 572.96] Your name is the greatest -[572.96 --> 576.46] Your name stands for love -[576.46 --> 582.30] All come to the heavens -[582.30 --> 585.10] All powers and positions -[585.10 --> 588.86] Your name stands for love -[588.86 --> 593.10] All angels rise -[593.10 --> 599.14] Glory, O creation rise -[599.14 --> 604.10] Holy, you are made of divine -[604.10 --> 610.52] Holy, holy forever -[610.52 --> 618.06] If you've been forgiven -[618.06 --> 621.76] And if you've been redeemed -[621.76 --> 626.14] Sing a song forever to the Lamb -[626.14 --> 631.10] When you walk in freedom -[631.10 --> 634.16] And if you bear His name -[634.16 --> 638.72] Sing a song forever to the Lamb -[638.72 --> 640.52] Sing a song forever to the Lamb -[640.52 --> 644.52] Sing a song forever to the Lamb -[644.52 --> 645.52] Holy, holy, holy, holy forever to the Lamb -[645.52 --> 649.48] You are made of divine -[649.48 --> 653.52] Holy, holy forever to the Lamb -[653.52 --> 654.52] Holy, holy, holy forever to the Lamb -[654.52 --> 655.52] Holy, holy forever to the Lamb -[655.52 --> 656.52] Holy, holy forever to the Lamb -[656.52 --> 657.52] Holy, holy, holy to the Lamb -[657.52 --> 658.52] Holy, holy to the Lamb -[658.52 --> 662.52] Holy, holy to the Lamb -[662.52 --> 664.52] Holy, holy to the Lamb -[664.52 --> 669.52] Holy, holy to the Lamb -[669.52 --> 671.52] Oh -[699.52 --> 701.52] Oh -[729.52 --> 731.52] Oh -[731.52 --> 733.52] Oh -[759.52 --> 761.52] Oh -[761.52 --> 763.52] Oh -[767.52 --> 769.52] Oh -[769.52 --> 771.52] Oh -[773.52 --> 775.52] Oh -[779.52 --> 781.52] Oh -[783.52 --> 785.52] Oh -[785.52 --> 787.52] Oh -[789.52 --> 791.52] Oh -[791.52 --> 793.52] Oh -[795.52 --> 797.52] Oh -[797.52 --> 799.52] Oh -[801.52 --> 803.52] Oh -[807.52 --> 809.52] Oh -[813.52 --> 815.52] Oh -[815.52 --> 820.26] I praise a hallelujah -[820.26 --> 827.52] Heaven comes to fight for me -[827.52 --> 830.94] I've got a sin -[830.94 --> 833.68] And love was born -[833.68 --> 836.08] Power and fire -[836.08 --> 839.14] And the gift of grace is born -[839.14 --> 841.70] Up from the ashes -[841.70 --> 844.36] Hope will arise -[844.36 --> 846.76] Heaven will be needed -[846.76 --> 849.54] The gifts of God -[849.54 --> 865.40] I praise a hallelujah -[865.40 --> 870.90] With everything inside me -[870.90 --> 876.08] I praise a hallelujah -[876.08 --> 881.78] I'm born to the tree -[881.78 --> 886.82] I praise a hallelujah -[886.82 --> 891.96] In the middle of the mystery -[891.96 --> 897.14] I praise a hallelujah -[897.14 --> 898.14] I praise a hallelujah -[898.14 --> 901.78] Fear and loss -[901.78 --> 903.34] And hold on me -[903.34 --> 907.80] I'm gonna sing -[907.80 --> 910.14] In the middle of the storm -[910.14 --> 912.14] Power and fire -[912.14 --> 914.80] I'm gonna hear my prayers -[914.80 --> 917.32] In the middle of the storm -[917.32 --> 918.54] I'm gonna hear my prayers -[918.54 --> 919.32] I'm gonna hear my prayers -[919.32 --> 921.32] Come from the ashes -[921.32 --> 923.32] Hope will arise -[923.32 --> 924.02] Let us in believe -[924.02 --> 926.32] The King is alive -[926.32 --> 933.56] Sing in believe -[933.56 --> 935.54] Sing in love -[935.54 --> 944.62] Sing in love -[944.62 --> 949.78] Sing in love -[949.78 --> 979.76] Thank you. -[979.78 --> 1009.76] Thank you. -[1009.78 --> 1039.76] Thank you. -[1039.78 --> 1069.76] Thank you. -[1069.76 --> 1099.74] Thank you. -[1099.76 --> 1101.76] Thank you. -[1129.76 --> 1131.76] Thank you. -[1159.76 --> 1161.76] Thank you. -[1189.76 --> 1191.76] Thank you. -[1219.76 --> 1221.76] Thank you. -[1221.76 --> 1223.76] Thank you. -[1223.76 --> 1225.76] Thank you. -[1253.76 --> 1255.76] Thank you. -[1255.76 --> 1285.76] -[1285.76 --> 1287.76] Thank you. -[1287.76 --> 1289.76] Thank you. -[1289.76 --> 1291.76] Thank you. -[1291.76 --> 1293.76] Thank you. -[1293.76 --> 1295.76] Thank you. -[1295.76 --> 1297.76] Thank you. -[1297.76 --> 1299.76] Thank you. -[1299.76 --> 1301.76] Thank you. -[1301.76 --> 1303.76] Thank you. -[1303.76 --> 1306.32] Let's sing of God's faithfulness together. -[1306.32 --> 1336.30] Let's sing of God's faithfulness together. -[1336.32 --> 1366.30] Let's sing of God's faithfulness together. -[1366.32 --> 1381.32] Sing praise, sing praise, sing praise. -[1381.32 --> 1386.32] Let's sing of God's faithfulness together. -[1386.32 --> 1391.32] Let's sing of God's faithfulness together. -[1391.32 --> 1395.32] Let's sing of God's faithfulness together. -[1395.36 --> 1403.32] For the light transmits together. -[1403.38 --> 1408.32] For the love and Peace were your work. -[1408.32 --> 1412.30] Rising to the same sun, -[1412.78 --> 1415.36] It's all that do us forever. -[1416.58 --> 1420.70] With our God, you'll carry on, -[1421.06 --> 1423.70] It's all that do us forever. -[1423.70 --> 1426.54] Sing praise. -[1428.70 --> 1430.70] Sing praise. -[1432.86 --> 1434.70] Sing praise. -[1434.70 --> 1440.14] Sing praise. -[1441.36 --> 1444.74] Forever God is equal, -[1445.30 --> 1448.58] Forever God is strong, -[1448.58 --> 1452.58] Forever God is without, -[1453.52 --> 1454.68] Forever. -[1456.94 --> 1460.96] Forever you are faithful, -[1460.96 --> 1465.18] Forever you are strong, -[1466.18 --> 1470.04] Forever you are with us, -[1470.48 --> 1471.42] Forever, -[1473.54 --> 1475.62] Forever. -[1475.62 --> 1476.58] Forever you are faithful, -[1476.58 --> 1476.84] foram from the Almighty, -[1476.84 --> 1477.14] Reverend John Rex, -[1477.14 --> 1477.64] Forever you are faithful, -[1477.64 --> 1478.22] for you are faithful, -[1478.22 --> 1478.58] and beauty of the donkey. -[1478.58 --> 1479.32] Amen. -[1479.32 --> 1479.74] Amen. -[1479.74 --> 1480.14] Amen. -[1480.14 --> 1481.02] Amen. -[1481.02 --> 1481.66] Amen. -[1488.74 --> 1490.52] Next week, Sunday, during our worship, -[1490.52 --> 1492.56] Sunday during our worship, -[1492.56 --> 1493.42] and then for a longer time after the worship, -[1493.42 --> 1496.56] and then for a longer time after our worship, -[1496.58 --> 1497.72] we have the opportunity to hear from Jennifer Gamach Who is the -[1497.72 --> 1502.72] to hear from Jennifer Gamache, who is the director, -[1503.02 --> 1506.54] the Lower Mainland Chapter Director for Safe Families Canada. -[1507.40 --> 1514.44] Safe Families Canada is a ministry that works with families and children -[1514.44 --> 1521.68] with the hope to keep them out of care, to provide support systems -[1521.68 --> 1529.76] to walk with families who are struggling in order to keep them out of the system -[1529.76 --> 1531.56] for as long as possible. -[1531.56 --> 1539.90] And so they work with the MCFD, they work with other social workers and the like -[1539.90 --> 1541.80] to come alongside families in need. -[1542.46 --> 1545.32] Jennifer is going to come and share a little bit of that work with us, -[1545.50 --> 1548.66] and then she's going to do, in the multipurpose room afterwards, -[1548.66 --> 1552.90] a longer presentation, and the hope is that we might find ways -[1552.90 --> 1557.40] that we can connect with that work and that ministry and support them -[1557.40 --> 1558.94] and be part of that as a church. -[1559.28 --> 1562.24] To prepare you for that, we've got a short video from them -[1562.24 --> 1565.02] that we're just going to hear, give us an overview, -[1565.24 --> 1570.14] hopefully pique your interest, and you can anticipate meeting Jennifer next week -[1570.14 --> 1574.42] and then even maybe gathering in the multipurpose room to hear more about that work. -[1574.74 --> 1576.20] And so we commend this video to you. -[1578.66 --> 1581.56] After all, everything is working, making sure that we're meeting -[1581.56 --> 1582.42] as part of the room towards the adversity. -[1583.40 --> 1583.50] You're being disâyed that we see other people -[1583.50 --> 1586.16] or people as part of the сday should have run out of scope. -[1586.74 --> 1588.04] I'm going to go to our어중 and our grand slabby and ourληict log-fart, -[1588.48 --> 1590.48] our portion of our painting, and our protagonist of my oldgrass -[1592.60 --> 1595.24] has been blessed. -[1599.46 --> 1602.16] But I'm going to go to our Ko стар1 pointaaaaaaH to do so począt1 like assets, -[1602.16 --> 1603.22] my God's playing in the 1950s. -[1603.22 --> 1604.34] But only if we were birthdays and people wereπά King -[1604.34 --> 1606.50] and ourult Annual Coop is projekt 한번 does with our cited. -[1606.50 --> 1607.22] and our group were part of thementedifying Fitances. -[1607.22 --> 1607.66] we discussed I called him. -[1607.66 --> 1616.26] Safe Families is an organization that helps people show biblical hospitality to their -[1616.26 --> 1617.58] neighbors and communities. -[1617.58 --> 1621.70] It trains churches and people within the churches to work together to provide a support network -[1621.70 --> 1623.70] when a family is in a time of crisis. -[1623.70 --> 1628.60] One of the goals for Safe Families is to help keep kids out of the foster care system. -[1628.60 --> 1633.64] When families are in crisis and at that point of lead, that's when disasters happen and -[1633.64 --> 1636.52] that's when the sorts of things that you can't come back from happen. -[1636.52 --> 1640.20] So the goal is to step in before that point and help stabilize families. -[1640.20 --> 1644.70] A lot of times the parents know if the situation continues to sort of unravel, the state's -[1644.70 --> 1647.58] going to have to step in and watch their kids. -[1647.58 --> 1652.22] And if the parents know about Safe Families, they know, here's an option where I can ask -[1652.22 --> 1656.40] some of the people to step in and provide some support so that I can take care of some of -[1656.40 --> 1658.40] these other pieces, these other elements. -[1658.40 --> 1662.80] It's just like any other emergency or situation that wouldn't show up in our life. -[1662.80 --> 1667.98] A medical emergency, getting evicted from a home, losing your job, losing your transportation -[1667.98 --> 1669.48] or something within the family. -[1669.48 --> 1672.18] You immediately start to lean on the people around you. -[1672.18 --> 1675.48] And with Safe Families, there's people that are just prepared to be leaned on. -[1675.48 --> 1676.48] They're ready. -[1676.48 --> 1679.48] They're saying, okay, when this comes, lean on me and I'll help. -[1679.48 --> 1684.70] Being able to do it together as a body of believers was just really exciting. -[1684.70 --> 1687.38] We're building a community of people that support each other. -[1687.38 --> 1689.88] The whole goal is stabilizing that family structure. -[1689.88 --> 1694.30] The kids know that we're not the thing that's keeping them from their mom. -[1694.30 --> 1696.38] We're sort of an extension of her caring. -[1696.38 --> 1698.38] And we're a team. -[1698.38 --> 1703.76] And give them the physical, emotional, and spiritual support that they need when they're -[1703.76 --> 1705.88] going through really uncertain circumstances. -[1705.88 --> 1711.20] There's a lot of people that hear about Safe Families and they focus on the host family -[1711.20 --> 1713.76] and think, I can't host kids. -[1713.76 --> 1719.16] And what I really want those people to hear is how much that wider circle of support is -[1719.16 --> 1720.16] so crucial. -[1720.16 --> 1724.20] It enables us to be able to focus on the kids. -[1724.20 --> 1728.54] It also is demonstrating to the kids that they're cared for by so many people. -[1728.54 --> 1733.78] I get notified probably four or five times a week of a need to host children. -[1733.78 --> 1735.12] It needs a lot of people then. -[1735.12 --> 1740.18] There needs to be a lot of people that see this or hear this and say, I would do this for -[1740.18 --> 1741.94] my family or friends. -[1741.94 --> 1746.30] I just need to see the broader community and the people that are coming to Safe Families -[1746.30 --> 1747.66] as part of my family. -[1747.66 --> 1749.98] Anyone can be a part of this. -[1749.98 --> 1753.46] Anytime, any bit of love, they're ready to receive. -[1753.46 --> 1758.42] And it just shows a child that they're valuable, that they're wanted, that they have a future -[1758.42 --> 1765.42] and all of that is something that Safe Families can provide them. -[1765.42 --> 1784.10] Okay, good morning everyone. -[1784.10 --> 1788.10] At this time of the service, we're going to do the affirmations of the names that we -[1788.10 --> 1795.10] have that council has been presented with for council positions for next year. -[1795.10 --> 1798.10] I just wanted to make a couple notes first. -[1798.10 --> 1803.10] I'm thankful for the terms that are completed by Darrell Wynn, Mike Worsma, Clem Molenkamp, -[1803.10 --> 1804.10] and myself. -[1804.10 --> 1807.10] I guess that's what you've got to say. -[1807.10 --> 1812.10] We're grateful for the nominations that we received this year. -[1812.10 --> 1814.10] I'm sure many of you know about that. -[1814.10 --> 1816.10] That's been in the bulletin in the midweek memos. -[1816.10 --> 1822.10] It's Clary Klosterhof for Min Elder, Paul Hummelman, Pastoral Elder, Alison Philpott, -[1822.10 --> 1825.10] and Pearl Den Hahn for Deacon. -[1825.10 --> 1829.10] The bylaws of a Langley Emanuel calls to affirm the nominees for office. -[1829.10 --> 1831.10] We do that with a ballot vote. -[1831.10 --> 1835.10] So if I could call a couple elders to come up and hand out the ballots please. -[1835.10 --> 1838.10] So we'll be handing out these ballots to you. -[1838.10 --> 1843.10] We also have pens here, so if you need a pen to fill out the ballot, you can do that as well. -[1843.10 --> 1848.10] And please indicate your affirmation of the full slate by checking the first box. -[1848.10 --> 1851.10] You'll see there's two boxes there. -[1851.10 --> 1854.10] Indicate your affirmation for the full slate by checking the first box. -[1854.10 --> 1859.10] If you have a concern, please indicate by checking box two and writing the names. -[1859.10 --> 1863.10] When you're completed that, please fold the ballot in half. -[1863.10 --> 1867.10] And when the collection bag goes around, you can just put it in there, -[1867.10 --> 1874.10] and the deacons will count it up after the service. -[1874.10 --> 1880.10] And the Lord willing, next Sunday we'll do the installation of the office fairs. -[1888.10 --> 1892.10] If you need a pen, you can raise your hand. -[1897.10 --> 1898.10] It won't be the last term. -[1898.10 --> 1899.10] If I had any of the options for the vote, I would say it's the same. -[1899.10 --> 1900.10] All right, thank you for that. -[1900.10 --> 1901.10] All right. -[1901.10 --> 1904.10] Thank you for that. -[1904.10 --> 1906.10] Deacons, I guess you're up next here. -[1906.10 --> 1907.10] Thank you. -[1907.10 --> 1908.10] Yes. -[1908.10 --> 1909.10] Thank you. -[1909.10 --> 1910.10] Thank you. -[1910.10 --> 1911.10] Thank you for that. -[1911.10 --> 1917.10] Deacons, I guess you're up next here. -[1917.10 --> 1918.10] All right. -[1918.10 --> 1923.10] Thank you. -[1923.10 --> 1925.10] Thank you. -[1925.10 --> 1955.08] Thank you. -[1955.10 --> 1966.04] Good morning. My name is Yap. I'm a deacon here at Langley Emanuel. This morning's collection will be for the budget. Please give as you're able to. Thank you. -[1985.10 --> 1987.10] Thank you. -[1987.10 --> 1989.10] Thank you. -[1989.10 --> 1990.10] Thank you. -[1990.10 --> 1997.10] Thank you. -[1997.10 --> 1998.60] Thank you. -[1998.60 --> 1999.10] Thank you. -[1999.10 --> 2003.10] Thank you. -[2003.10 --> 2007.10] Thank you. -[2007.10 --> 2012.40] Jesus, help my heart and my heart and my soul. -[2013.46 --> 2018.96] Jesus, help my voice and my peace and my love. -[2018.96 --> 2025.00] Holy, I'll lay down the joy of my life. -[2025.60 --> 2031.40] Jesus, help my voice and my love. -[2031.40 --> 2038.16] You are my grace, my lips, my song. -[2038.16 --> 2044.30] A living sacrifice of one before. -[2044.74 --> 2047.32] Life is now my Lord. -[2047.88 --> 2050.00] A rail is for God. -[2050.76 --> 2056.06] Jesus, help my voice and my love. -[2056.06 --> 2062.82] Jesus, help my voice and my love. -[2062.82 --> 2066.12] You belong to the Lord. -[2066.48 --> 2068.36] Praise the Lord. -[2069.36 --> 2072.82] Jesus, help my voice and my love. -[2073.20 --> 2078.82] Jesus, help my voice and my love. -[2078.82 --> 2081.58] The Lord is for God. -[2081.58 --> 2085.58] Come, Lord, Jesus, help my voice and my love. -[2088.58 --> 2089.58] Jesus, help my voice and my love. -[2089.58 --> 2091.92] Jesus, help my voice and my love. -[2091.92 --> 2095.28] Your love will rise. -[2095.72 --> 2099.58] Joy for which you freely gain. -[2100.08 --> 2104.34] Your life, radiant in fire. -[2104.88 --> 2107.46] Watch and fill your life. -[2107.46 --> 2110.34] Jesus, help my voice and my love. -[2110.34 --> 2112.12] Jesus, help my voice and my love. -[2114.22 --> 2116.74] Jesus, help your voice and my love. -[2116.74 --> 2120.30] Jesus, help your voice and my love. -[2120.30 --> 2123.58] Praise your every day, Jesus. -[2123.84 --> 2129.06] I can tell you, and all that makes me feel again. -[2129.94 --> 2132.18] Glory for you, Lord. -[2133.06 --> 2136.72] Jesus, help my voice and my love. -[2136.72 --> 2151.72] Jesus, God, Lord, Jesus, God, Lord, You will know His glory, praise the Lord, He will come. -[2151.72 --> 2181.70] Jesus, God, Lord, Jesus, God, Lord, You will know His glory, praise the Lord, He will come. -[2181.72 --> 2211.70] Jesus, God, Lord, Jesus, God, Lord, You will know His glory, praise the Lord, He will come. -[2211.70 --> 2218.70] Jesus, God, Lord, You will know His glory, praise the Lord, He will come. -[2218.70 --> 2220.70] Jesus, God, Lord, He will come. -[2220.70 --> 2225.70] Jesus, God, Lord, He will come. -[2225.70 --> 2232.70] Jesus, God, Lord, He will come. -[2232.70 --> 2234.70] Amen. -[2234.70 --> 2235.70] Amen. -[2235.70 --> 2239.70] Amen. -[2239.70 --> 2241.70] Amen. -[2241.70 --> 2243.70] Yeah. -[2243.70 --> 2245.70] Amen. -[2245.70 --> 2249.70] Oh, my, dear. -[2249.70 --> 2255.70] All my dreams, all my dreams, -[2255.70 --> 2261.70] and they know. -[2274.70 --> 2276.70] Good morning. It's time for Kids' Corner, -[2276.70 --> 2281.70] so I'd like to invite any of our kids here who are age 3 up to grade 4 -[2281.70 --> 2284.70] to come and join us at the front. -[2290.70 --> 2296.70] I think we have a small little group, but there's still a few coming up. -[2296.70 --> 2299.70] Yeah, there's a lot of girls up here, -[2299.70 --> 2302.70] and some of the boys are away at cadet camp, I think. -[2302.70 --> 2306.70] So this morning we're going to be thinking about gifts. -[2306.70 --> 2309.70] Has anybody here ever gotten a gift, a present? -[2309.70 --> 2310.70] Most of you? -[2310.70 --> 2312.70] Most of you, maybe for your birthday or for Christmas -[2312.70 --> 2314.70] or just for something special? -[2314.70 --> 2316.70] Yeah, lots of you, okay? -[2316.70 --> 2321.70] I want you to think about a really, really special gift that you maybe got. -[2321.70 --> 2324.70] Something that you really wanted or you might have had to wait for. -[2324.70 --> 2330.70] Keep it in your head because we're going to talk about it when we get to the large group. -[2330.70 --> 2334.70] But because I have the microphone, we're going to talk about my gift right now. -[2334.70 --> 2336.70] But we'll talk about yours after. -[2336.70 --> 2341.70] So when I was about, I think I was about maybe 8, -[2341.70 --> 2344.70] there was something that I really, really wanted. -[2344.70 --> 2348.70] And I asked my mom if I could have it, and do you know what she said? -[2348.70 --> 2349.70] Yes. -[2349.70 --> 2350.70] No. -[2350.70 --> 2351.70] She said no. -[2351.70 --> 2355.70] And I had to ask her again, and do you know what she said that time? -[2355.70 --> 2357.70] She still said no. -[2357.70 --> 2364.70] I had to ask her quite a few times, but one day, one day when I asked, she said yes. -[2364.70 --> 2367.70] Do you think you know what I might have asked her? -[2367.70 --> 2368.70] I'm going to let you take some guesses. -[2368.70 --> 2371.70] I didn't really give you any clues, but we'll see what you come up with. -[2371.70 --> 2372.70] Carious? -[2372.70 --> 2373.70] A dog. -[2373.70 --> 2375.70] Well, we already had a dog, so it wasn't a dog. -[2375.70 --> 2376.70] A horse? -[2376.70 --> 2377.70] A horse. -[2377.70 --> 2381.70] My sister might have wanted a horse, but I didn't really want a horse. -[2381.70 --> 2382.70] A cat. -[2382.70 --> 2383.70] A cat. -[2383.70 --> 2384.70] You're right. -[2384.70 --> 2385.70] It was a cat. -[2385.70 --> 2387.70] I really, really wanted a cat. -[2387.70 --> 2389.70] And finally she said yes, and we got this cat. -[2389.70 --> 2394.70] This was the only picture I could find in my house of my cat. -[2394.70 --> 2395.70] That was my cat. -[2395.70 --> 2396.70] His name was Tiger. -[2396.70 --> 2400.70] And I was so excited because I wanted a cat for a few years. -[2400.70 --> 2403.70] And finally my mom said yes, I could get a cat. -[2403.70 --> 2409.70] And we looked in the newspaper, and we saw three kittens, and we went down to the house, -[2409.70 --> 2410.70] and there was two kittens. -[2410.70 --> 2416.70] There was one that was very easy to get, and one that was hiding in the middle of a very long carpet roll. -[2416.70 --> 2418.70] And I said, I want that one. -[2418.70 --> 2420.70] The one that's in the carpet and impossible to get out. -[2420.70 --> 2426.70] And so we got him out and took him home, and I was so happy to have my cat. -[2426.70 --> 2436.70] And so even though that was probably the most special gift that I could think of, we're going to talk today about an even more special gift that God has given us. -[2436.70 --> 2438.70] And that is the Holy Spirit. -[2438.70 --> 2450.70] So we're going to take a minute here just to stand and do our blessing, and then we're going to go learn more about that gift in our classes. -[2450.70 --> 2454.70] We're going to take a minute here just to stand and do our blessing. -[2454.70 --> 2456.70] The Lord be with you. -[2456.70 --> 2458.70] And also with you. -[2480.70 --> 2490.70] I always learn things about people from the children's worship time in the kids' corner there. -[2490.70 --> 2498.70] And I was wondering as Nikki was talking and she was looking back at Joan to see if Joan was going to change the story on her there or not. -[2498.70 --> 2502.70] But it seems to me like parenting is a war of attrition sometimes. -[2502.70 --> 2506.70] And if you just stick to it, maybe you won't end up with cats. -[2506.70 --> 2512.70] It's my privilege to lead in our prayer this morning, our church family prayer. -[2512.70 --> 2526.70] And before we do that, there are just a couple announcements and invitations to pray for that we've been asked to include and to add to what you may have seen in the e-bulletin already. -[2526.70 --> 2534.70] First of all, this week is the CLASIS meeting. -[2534.70 --> 2540.70] So CLASIS is the regional group of Christian Reformed churches that we are part of. -[2540.70 --> 2552.70] And there's a special meeting on Wednesday that's taking place because one of the churches, one of our sister churches in our region, is going through some really hard things with their pastor and in the community. -[2552.70 --> 2556.70] And so they've asked us to come together and support them. -[2556.70 --> 2560.70] And so we're going to pray for them and we're going to pray for our delegates who are going to be participating in that meeting. -[2560.70 --> 2564.70] And that includes myself and then Darryl Wins and Brenda Alkama. -[2564.70 --> 2576.70] And so if you can hold us in your prayers on Wednesday night as we gather with the other leaders and churches to journey through these things as a community that's really important. -[2576.70 --> 2583.70] And we get to share in that and hopefully lighten the load and burden of our brothers and sisters in faith. -[2583.70 --> 2590.70] Additionally, we have been asked by Roswitha if we would lift her up in prayer. -[2590.70 --> 2594.70] And she's going through some health struggles and some other struggles in her life. -[2594.70 --> 2599.70] And she is calling on us to pray for her and to uphold her. -[2599.70 --> 2607.70] Now many of you know Roswitha and so encourage you to also take this into your week of prayer as well. -[2607.70 --> 2610.70] With those couple notes in mind, let's come to God in prayer. -[2615.70 --> 2624.70] Holy God and Heavenly Father, we gather before you in this time of worship because you are great and glorious. -[2624.70 --> 2631.70] We gather before you in this time of worship because you are majestic Lord Almighty. -[2631.70 --> 2645.70] We gather before you in this time of worship because you have bid us come to enter into this holy space, to stand on this holy ground and to hear directly from you. -[2645.70 --> 2649.70] In your presence we stand. -[2649.70 --> 2658.70] To you, Lord God, we come in this time of prayer because you are sovereign over all the earth. -[2658.70 --> 2662.70] You rule and reign with your powerful hand. -[2662.70 --> 2671.70] And so we ask, Lord God, now that you would move your hand in the direction of your will and your glory. -[2671.70 --> 2680.70] And that you would use us and our prayers here as part of your guiding and shaping history to your good and glorious ends. -[2680.70 --> 2690.70] Father God, as we come, we come as those particularly mindful with our eyes wide open looking out around the world. -[2690.70 --> 2696.70] We come knowing that there is struggle and hardship. -[2696.70 --> 2704.70] Knowing that there is temptation and strife all around. -[2705.70 --> 2711.70] We ask God that you would meet us in the midst of these dark nights. -[2711.70 --> 2713.70] In the midst of the valley of the shadow. -[2713.70 --> 2716.70] In the midst of our longing and our crying and our mourning. -[2716.70 --> 2720.70] Asking that you would meet us here. -[2720.70 --> 2728.70] And that in the power of your spirit you would lift us up and draw us to yourself and reveal your mighty face to us. -[2728.70 --> 2738.70] And so, Lord God, we pray intercede in places of conflict and war. -[2738.70 --> 2742.70] We pray bring peace. -[2742.70 --> 2750.70] We pray, Lord God, that not only would the peace you bring be a ceasing of conflict and of death. -[2750.70 --> 2753.70] But it would be a restoration to wholeness. -[2756.70 --> 2765.70] And that from your hand we would know what it means to be fully human, fully alive to the glory of God. -[2765.70 --> 2776.70] God, as we gather, we know that the synod, the annual gathering of leaders from the Christian Reformed Church is coming up. -[2776.70 --> 2781.70] We know that the convening session is this week to name officers. -[2781.70 --> 2785.70] And so, we ask that you would be at work in and through that process. -[2785.70 --> 2787.70] Even as that happens online. -[2787.70 --> 2793.70] Even as those of us who are delegates are preparing to go to Grand Rapids in June. -[2793.70 --> 2801.70] We ask, Lord, that you would already now be opening our eyes to the work of your Holy Spirit among us. -[2801.70 --> 2807.70] That you would already now be guiding us into all truth. -[2807.70 --> 2811.70] And that you would move us forward as a church to the glory of your name. -[2813.70 --> 2817.70] We pray, Lord God, that we wouldn't pursue our own ends and our own stories. -[2817.70 --> 2821.70] But that we would be part of your work in the world. -[2821.70 --> 2831.70] Father, we pray much the same for those of us who will be gathering on Wednesday nights with the classes meeting. -[2831.70 --> 2837.70] We pray for our sister churches who are going through some very significant challenges and struggles. -[2837.70 --> 2841.70] And ask that you would meet them in their pain. -[2841.70 --> 2846.70] And that you would knit them together in the hope of your gospel. -[2846.70 --> 2852.70] We pray for those leaders in the churches who are affected. -[2852.70 --> 2857.70] Who are heartbroken and who have been offended against. -[2858.70 --> 2864.70] We ask that you would bring hope and wholeness there as well. -[2865.70 --> 2868.70] And God, we pray for those who are hurting in these places. -[2869.70 --> 2873.70] We pray that you would meet them in their pain and in their trials. -[2873.70 --> 2876.70] And that you would hold on to them. -[2876.70 --> 2880.70] Wrap your loving arms of care around them. -[2880.70 --> 2885.70] That they might look to you and you alone for hope and for satisfaction. -[2885.70 --> 2891.70] God, as we draw a little bit closer now to our own community, -[2891.70 --> 2900.70] we give you thanks and praise in the lives, in particular, of the university and college students who have graduated in this season. -[2900.70 --> 2906.70] This last couple of weeks and these next few, there are graduation ceremonies happening all around us. -[2906.70 --> 2911.70] And we give your name praise for completed seasons of life. -[2911.70 --> 2917.70] We praise your name as students enter this time of transition to something new, -[2917.70 --> 2920.70] whether it is career or work or more schooling. -[2920.70 --> 2929.70] We pray, God, that in all of this, you would draw near to them and you would give them hope and comfort. -[2933.70 --> 2942.70] Father God, we pray a prayer of thanksgiving for those in our midst who you have called to serve. -[2942.70 --> 2960.70] We thank you for your provision to that end and ask, Lord God, that you would bless the ministries of this church through the leaders and through the so many volunteers that step up and serve you through their work in this church. -[2960.70 --> 2975.70] Father God, as we come before you, we come before you as well on behalf of our brothers and sisters here, on behalf of our church family. -[2975.70 --> 2980.70] And so, with Judy Dykstra, we want to pray for her friend, Vera. -[2980.70 --> 2985.70] Vera has been in the hospital for a few weeks now with shingles. -[2985.70 --> 2994.70] And so, we pray that you would bring healing to her, restore her, so that she can go back to her life as lived normally, -[2994.70 --> 3000.70] that she can again connect with her friends like Judy and live their lives together. -[3000.70 --> 3006.70] Father, we pray as well this time for Rose Vita. -[3006.70 --> 3015.70] Ask that you would be near to her, that you would put your healing hand upon her, that you would wrap your caring arms around her, -[3015.70 --> 3025.70] and that she would know the nearness of your love and the deep and ever-present power of the Holy Spirit in her and with her. -[3025.70 --> 3034.70] And we pray, Lord God, that you would use us, her church family, to surround her in that and to make that real in her life. -[3034.70 --> 3044.70] Help her not only to know it in the depths of her heart, but to see it as we live and come alongside of her. -[3044.70 --> 3054.70] Father God, we want to pray as well for Pastor Kevin as he begins a one-week intensive course at Acts Seminary this week. -[3054.70 --> 3061.70] We know that the demands on his time and his life and his family as a result of that will be significant. -[3061.70 --> 3068.70] And we pray that you would bless them all in this season, in this busy week. -[3068.70 --> 3076.70] God, we pray too for the camps that happened and are still concluding yet today, youth camp and cadets. -[3076.70 --> 3084.70] We thank you for at least yet no reports of serious injury and for keeping people safe -[3084.70 --> 3091.70] and for the ways that you have drawn the community together in those moments and times. -[3091.70 --> 3097.70] And God, as we prepare to hear from Safe Families Canada next week, -[3097.70 --> 3103.70] would you already be laying on our hearts the needs that you might be calling us to address as a church community -[3103.70 --> 3108.70] or as individuals in this community in partnership with their work. -[3108.70 --> 3116.70] And now, God, as we turn to your word, we ask that you would open the eyes of our hearts that we might see Jesus, -[3116.70 --> 3125.70] that we might hear his voice, and that we might be transformed through the work of your word on our hearts and in our lives. -[3125.70 --> 3134.70] Make us into the people that you are calling us to be, we pray, in Jesus' holy, holy name. Amen. -[3134.70 --> 3136.70] Amen. -[3136.70 --> 3140.70] Amen. -[3140.70 --> 3142.70] Amen. -[3142.70 --> 3148.70] I'm going to invite you to open your Bibles, -[3148.70 --> 3154.70] and we're going to continue in our walking through the book of Romans, -[3154.70 --> 3160.70] as we enter into the last chapter of the book of Romans together. -[3160.70 --> 3164.70] We are going to read the first 16 verses. -[3164.70 --> 3168.70] Now, I warn you in advance, these verses are full of a lot of names, -[3168.70 --> 3174.70] and so we're going to work our way through them intentionally and carefully. -[3174.70 --> 3180.70] But also, I'm going to encourage you, as you are able, just to keep your Bible open, -[3180.70 --> 3186.70] so that if I make reference back to one of them, you can see where they are, or in partnership with whom, and the like. -[3186.70 --> 3194.70] So, let's read together this, the beginning of the last chapter in the book of Romans. -[3194.70 --> 3198.70] Romans 16, I'll start at verse 1. -[3198.70 --> 3228.70] -[3228.70 --> 3258.70] -[3258.70 --> 3288.70] -[3288.70 --> 3318.70] -[3318.70 --> 3332.70] This is the word of the Lord. -[3332.70 --> 3342.70] This is one of those Sundays where I think, wouldn't it be fun if we had someone not a pastor read the Scripture beforehand? -[3342.70 --> 3350.70] As I begin, let me ask if you've heard this before. -[3350.70 --> 3356.70] Show me your friends, and I will show you your future. -[3356.70 --> 3362.70] Or maybe, you are the average of the five people closest to you. -[3362.70 --> 3370.70] That's Jim Rohn, who is ubiquitous over the internet with his quotes. -[3370.70 --> 3371.70] Here's another one. -[3371.70 --> 3376.70] Show me who your friends are, and I will tell you what you are. -[3376.70 --> 3380.70] That's apparently from Vladimir Lenin, which kind of surprised me, but I couldn't prove that either, -[3380.70 --> 3385.70] because it's, again, another one of those quotes that the internet kind of just throws everywhere. -[3385.70 --> 3397.70] Point is, these are ubiquitous and everywhere-present internet memes that reveal to us, or try to show to us, -[3397.70 --> 3404.70] that the people around you make you who you are. -[3404.70 --> 3407.70] The people around you make you who you are. -[3407.70 --> 3414.70] The point I want to press into with you this morning is how and why is that true? -[3414.70 --> 3418.70] And so this is what we're going to look at, just three quick areas. -[3418.70 --> 3425.70] One, the idea that the community of faith shapes you, sustains you, and celebrates you. -[3425.70 --> 3433.70] The community of faith shapes you, and sustains you, and celebrates you, or celebrates with you. -[3433.70 --> 3436.70] So let's start at number one. -[3436.70 --> 3445.70] The community you surround yourself with shapes you into the person you are and the person you are becoming. -[3445.70 --> 3452.70] And so, of course, that means the type of community that you surround yourself with matters. -[3452.70 --> 3466.70] Now, it turns out that the scope of those who influence you is actually much bigger than the five people that Jim Rohn talked about. -[3466.70 --> 3480.70] Back in 2011, the New England Journal of Medicine published an article that tracked the spread of obesity over 32 years in a large social network. -[3480.70 --> 3487.70] The study looked at data from 1971 all the way to 2003 of over 12,000 people. -[3487.70 --> 3490.70] And here's what they found. -[3490.70 --> 3499.70] If a friend of yours becomes obese, you are 45% more likely to gain weight over the next two to four years. -[3499.70 --> 3501.70] But get this. -[3501.70 --> 3513.70] They found that if a friend of a friend of yours becomes obese, the likelihood of you gaining weight over the same time period, two to four years, goes up by 20%. -[3513.70 --> 3518.70] Even if you don't know the friend of a friend. -[3518.70 --> 3522.70] And then, here's the worst part, it goes even one degree of separation further. -[3522.70 --> 3530.70] If a friend of a friend of a friend of yours becomes obese, you are 10% more likely to gain weight. -[3530.70 --> 3534.70] I'm sorry to tell you, but it turns out your friends are making you fat. -[3534.70 --> 3540.70] But so do their friends and their friends and their friends' friends. -[3540.70 --> 3552.70] Using this same collection of data, 5,000 people now from 1983 to 2003, they measured individual happiness over a large social network. -[3552.70 --> 3556.70] This was published in the British Medical Journal back in 2008. -[3556.70 --> 3558.70] They found similar results. -[3558.70 --> 3564.70] If your friend is happy, you are 12% more likely to be happy as well. -[3564.70 --> 3568.70] And if your friend's friends are happy, you're 10% more likely. -[3568.70 --> 3573.70] And then, if a friend of a friend of a friend is happy, you are 6% more likely to be happy. -[3573.70 --> 3576.70] Now, you might hear that and go, 6% is not actually that much. -[3576.70 --> 3586.70] But the same study found that if I were to give you a $10,000 raise, the net effect on your happiness would only be 2%. -[3586.70 --> 3588.70] So think about that. -[3588.70 --> 3591.70] 6% actually turns out to be quite significant. -[3591.70 --> 3598.70] In no small way, you and who you are is determined and influenced by the company you keep. -[3598.70 --> 3602.70] The people that you surround yourself with will change you. -[3602.70 --> 3611.70] But actually, what you're seeing is that the people that they surround themselves with, and the people that they surround themselves with, will also change you. -[3611.70 --> 3614.70] Will also influence you and impact you. -[3614.70 --> 3617.70] Your community of influence matters. -[3617.70 --> 3626.70] And so, part of what that means is that your influence in the community also matters. -[3626.70 --> 3631.70] And it matters to more than just the people sitting next to you. -[3631.70 --> 3636.70] It matters to the people they connect with in the week. -[3636.70 --> 3643.70] And it matters to the people they connect with in the next week. -[3643.70 --> 3645.70] And here's the thing, right? -[3645.70 --> 3654.70] As a Bible-believing, God-fearing, Christian people, we shouldn't be surprised by this. -[3654.70 --> 3660.70] Now, of course, we might not know the numbers, we might not know the statistics, but we know the ontology, right? -[3660.70 --> 3671.70] We know the created reality that undergirds all of that, the reality behind the numbers, because we know that we are created for community. -[3671.70 --> 3678.70] And all the way back in Genesis 1, the very beginning of the Bible, God looks at creation, he says it is very good. -[3678.70 --> 3686.70] And then in Genesis 2, in the next story, he looks at Adam alone and he says it's not good for man to be alone. -[3686.70 --> 3692.70] Right? Because we're created in the image of God, Genesis 1 now, in the image of God, he created them. -[3692.70 --> 3694.70] Male and female, he created them. -[3694.70 --> 3704.70] Right? And so, part of what we're seeing here is that God himself exists in eternal community as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. -[3704.70 --> 3709.70] The Godhead exists as a community within God's self. -[3709.70 --> 3714.70] Three persons co-equal, never confounding, but one in divinity. -[3714.70 --> 3718.70] Right? Trinity in unity and unity in trinity. -[3718.70 --> 3729.70] And to be created in this image of the triune God is to be created for community and unity. -[3729.70 --> 3737.70] And then it's one's relationship to the community that becomes porous and reciprocal. -[3737.70 --> 3740.70] In that you impact her. -[3740.70 --> 3744.70] And you impact him. -[3744.70 --> 3752.70] What we put into the community matters for what you get out of the community. -[3752.70 --> 3755.70] Proverbs 13, 21 puts it this way. -[3755.70 --> 3759.70] It says, walk with the wise, become wise. -[3759.70 --> 3762.70] A companion of fools suffers harm. -[3762.70 --> 3766.70] Surround yourself with wise people. -[3766.70 --> 3769.70] And it has the impact of becoming wise. -[3769.70 --> 3772.70] You have the impact then of becoming wise yourself. -[3772.70 --> 3774.70] Hang out with fools. -[3774.70 --> 3777.70] And don't be surprised when you start to act like one. -[3777.70 --> 3784.70] Now in the New Testament, the strength of this bond is actually only heightened for us. -[3784.70 --> 3785.70] Right? -[3785.70 --> 3789.70] In the New Testament, we start to learn that we are recreated. -[3789.70 --> 3791.70] We are regenerated by the work of the Holy Spirit. -[3791.70 --> 3794.70] We are born again as a family. -[3794.70 --> 3795.70] Right? -[3795.70 --> 3797.70] As brothers and sisters in Christ. -[3797.70 --> 3801.70] We become brothers and sisters because of Jesus. -[3801.70 --> 3807.70] Now another image that the New Testament uses for the church is a body. -[3807.70 --> 3810.70] We talk about one body and many parts. -[3810.70 --> 3812.70] And all of the parts are required. -[3812.70 --> 3817.70] All of the parts are equal in fellowship even if the authority is different. -[3817.70 --> 3818.70] Right? -[3818.70 --> 3823.70] A foot and an eye and a hand and a mouth, we all play a part in the body. -[3823.70 --> 3827.70] And without one of those parts, the body isn't complete. -[3827.70 --> 3831.70] It's not whole. -[3831.70 --> 3837.70] And what we are seeing here is that being part of the body matters and playing your part in the body matters. -[3837.70 --> 3838.70] Right? -[3838.70 --> 3842.70] Picking up on this, Paul says in 1 Corinthians 15, 33, he says, -[3842.70 --> 3844.70] Do not be misled. -[3844.70 --> 3847.70] Bad company corrupts good character. -[3847.70 --> 3856.70] Now, chapter 16 of Romans is for us a veritable, -[3856.70 --> 3862.70] who's who of the Apostle Paul's support team. -[3862.70 --> 3863.70] Right? -[3863.70 --> 3867.70] The people who have come alongside him and sustained him and have influenced him. -[3867.70 --> 3874.70] The people who have from the beginning and along the way been gathered up by the Holy Spirit in the work that he is doing. -[3874.70 --> 3882.70] People that the Holy Spirit has converted and people who have come alongside Paul in this work that he is doing. -[3882.70 --> 3891.70] And in this chapter, Paul is simultaneously making introductions for these people to the church at Rome. -[3891.70 --> 3897.70] He's saying, here are some of my fellow believers and co-laborers, dear friends in the Lord. -[3897.70 --> 3902.70] And he's commending them to the church in Rome, whom Paul hasn't yet met. -[3902.70 --> 3908.70] He's commending them to receive them and to welcome them and to listen to them. -[3908.70 --> 3913.70] Effectively, what Paul is saying is that these are the people who shape me. -[3913.70 --> 3915.70] These are the people who sustain me. -[3915.70 --> 3920.70] These are the people who celebrate what God is doing in and through this work. -[3920.70 --> 3933.70] And what we get in these last verses of the book is a window into Paul's experience of how this community shapes him and how the people around him matter. -[3933.70 --> 3936.70] Maybe you saw the language as we went through, right? -[3936.70 --> 3940.70] In these verses, Paul is talking about co-workers. -[3940.70 --> 3943.70] That is, people who have shared in the labor, who have come alongside him. -[3943.70 --> 3946.70] And he talks about dear friends. -[3946.70 --> 3950.70] These are people he has lived with and worked with. -[3950.70 --> 3955.70] These are people he has loved and been loved by. -[3955.70 --> 3966.70] Now, as we go through this list, for instance, we know that Paul lived with Priscilla and Aquila for a year and a half. -[3966.70 --> 3985.70] He met them on one of his missionary journeys in the city of Corinth after they had moved out of Italy, probably even out of the city of Rome, because Emperor Claudius, who reigned from AD 41 to AD 54, he kicked all the Jews out of Rome. -[3985.70 --> 3988.70] You can read about that in Acts 18. -[3988.70 --> 3993.70] And because they were kicked out of Italy, they moved and went and settled to Corinth. -[3993.70 --> 3996.70] And that's where they met Paul. -[3996.70 --> 4000.70] And we learned that Priscilla and Aquila are also tent makers like him. -[4000.70 --> 4004.70] And so they worked together and they lived together and they ministered together. -[4004.70 --> 4009.70] And that time, that year and a half, would have shaped him deeply. -[4009.70 --> 4011.70] He goes on. -[4011.70 --> 4021.70] He mentions the fact that Andronicus and Junia, in verse 7, are outstanding among the apostles that they were in Christ before I was. -[4021.70 --> 4033.70] We don't take it lightly, the fact that Paul calls these two people, probably a married couple, outstanding among the apostles. -[4033.70 --> 4037.70] And that he notes that they were in Christ before he was. -[4037.70 --> 4041.70] He has a respect for them and he defers to them in some respects. -[4041.70 --> 4042.70] Right? -[4042.70 --> 4049.70] He's clearly influenced by who they are and the sharing of life that they've done together. -[4049.70 --> 4050.70] He goes on. -[4050.70 --> 4057.70] In verse 13, you read about the mother of Rufus, who has been a mother to me too, says Paul. -[4057.70 --> 4064.70] The mothers are some of the most important people in shaping who you are and who you are becoming. -[4064.70 --> 4079.70] Now, for most of these people, in fact, quite extensively for all of them, we don't know exactly how or in what way these people have influenced Paul. -[4079.70 --> 4086.70] But we could reasonably deduce that they have been used by God to shape him. -[4086.70 --> 4087.70] Right? -[4087.70 --> 4097.70] As one writer said, these become a list of tough friends for tough times. -[4097.70 --> 4098.70] Right? -[4098.70 --> 4103.70] Because the right people around you makes you strong. -[4103.70 --> 4109.70] And these tough friends will sustain him in the faith, which is the second point. -[4109.70 --> 4110.70] Right? -[4110.70 --> 4118.70] That the community of faith sustains you in the journey of life. -[4118.70 --> 4132.70] And the American Society for Training and Development found that people are 65% more likely to meet a goal after they commit that goal to another person. -[4132.70 --> 4135.70] It is after you tell someone else. -[4135.70 --> 4147.70] And the chances of success of meeting that goal actually go up to 95% when you build in personal one-on-one meetings with the people you tell. -[4147.70 --> 4148.70] Right? -[4148.70 --> 4151.70] So they can check in on your progress and hold you accountable. -[4151.70 --> 4155.70] Now, again, as Christians, of course we know this to be true. -[4155.70 --> 4156.70] Right? -[4156.70 --> 4161.70] We've always talked about the role of disciples going out two by two. -[4161.70 --> 4162.70] Right? -[4162.70 --> 4166.70] And of accountability and mutual encouragement. -[4166.70 --> 4180.70] And so, Paul says of Phoebe in the first verse, she's a deacon in the church of Kencria and she's been a benefactor to many people including him. -[4180.70 --> 4188.70] In fact, he goes on and he lists a whole bunch of other women, additional women, who have worked hard in the Lord. -[4188.70 --> 4193.70] Or Persis, who's a woman who has worked very hard in the Lord. -[4193.70 --> 4203.70] Now, again, we don't know exactly what that work looks like or what it consisted of, but for Paul to have mentioned it means that it's one, worthy of honor and recognition. -[4203.70 --> 4208.70] And two, that that work encourages him in the work he does. -[4208.70 --> 4214.70] In fact, one of the women who are mentioned is Mary. -[4214.70 --> 4219.70] Mary, who worked very hard for you, Paul says. -[4219.70 --> 4227.70] And this one is interesting to me because Paul mentions how Mary has worked very hard for you, for the Roman church. -[4227.70 --> 4234.70] So, they might not even know her, but Paul does and he's saying she's worked very hard for you. -[4234.70 --> 4240.70] Now, for those of you who are curious, Mary is a very common name for Jewish women. -[4240.70 --> 4246.70] And it relates to the Aramaic Miriam or the Hebrew Miriam. -[4246.70 --> 4253.70] And so, this may be one of the Marys we've already met in the Gospels because we know three of them, at least three, probably four. -[4253.70 --> 4262.70] I suspect, and this is just my suspicion, that this is the Mary who's mentioned as the mother of Mark. -[4262.70 --> 4263.70] Right? -[4263.70 --> 4268.70] The mother of John Mark, who's the author of the second Gospel and was one of Paul's missionary partners. -[4268.70 --> 4270.70] But I have no proof of that. -[4270.70 --> 4272.70] But I think that's who it is. -[4272.70 --> 4278.70] The bigger point here in all of this is that all of these women have worked hard for the kingdom -[4278.70 --> 4283.70] and their work is sustaining and encouraging Paul in the work that he's doing. -[4283.70 --> 4291.70] And this sort of sustaining work goes beyond the provisions and encouragement. -[4291.70 --> 4292.70] Right? -[4292.70 --> 4297.70] Again, Paul tells us that Priscilla and Aquila, what does he say? -[4297.70 --> 4300.70] They risked their lives for me in verse 4. -[4300.70 --> 4301.70] Right? -[4301.70 --> 4307.70] Andronicus and Junia, again, Paul says, who have been in prison with me. -[4307.70 --> 4308.70] Right? -[4308.70 --> 4318.70] Apellas in verse 10, we read that his fidelity to Christ stood the test, which probably means he was persecuted. -[4318.70 --> 4327.70] So not only are the people on this list those who have supported Paul, who've worked hard in the Lord with him, -[4327.70 --> 4333.70] but there's a bunch of people on this list who have suffered with him and who have sustained him in his own suffering. -[4333.70 --> 4341.70] Which is just the working out of Galatians 6 verse 2, which says, carry each other's burdens. -[4341.70 --> 4344.70] In this way you fulfill the law of Christ. -[4344.70 --> 4351.70] And when Paul talks about the law of Christ, he's talking about the command of Christ to love each other. -[4351.70 --> 4352.70] Right? -[4352.70 --> 4360.70] And the way that we love each other, the way that we reveal Jesus to each other is in part by carrying each other's burdens. -[4360.70 --> 4365.70] By entering into the struggles and the hardships and the challenges together. -[4365.70 --> 4370.70] And this isn't just about external burdens, right, or material struggles. -[4370.70 --> 4372.70] We can go even further. -[4372.70 --> 4384.70] Think about the incredibly personal and the all too private struggle that so many of us have with different sins. -[4384.70 --> 4389.70] Think about the role of confession then. -[4389.70 --> 4394.70] We pray prayers of confession every week in our worship together. -[4394.70 --> 4395.70] Sometimes they're spoken and shared. -[4395.70 --> 4399.70] Sometimes they're silent and in your own hearts between you and God. -[4399.70 --> 4411.70] And when we pray in this silence, I just wonder, do we experience confession the way that the psalmist does in Psalm 32? -[4411.70 --> 4414.70] I'm going to read that for you. -[4414.70 --> 4415.70] Psalm 32. -[4415.70 --> 4416.70] The psalmist says, -[4416.70 --> 4424.70] When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. -[4424.70 --> 4428.70] For day and night your hand was heavy on me. -[4428.70 --> 4431.70] My strength was sapped as in the heat of summer. -[4431.70 --> 4435.70] Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. -[4435.70 --> 4442.70] I said, I will confess my transgressions to the Lord and you forgave the guilt of my sin. -[4442.70 --> 4448.70] And then he ends, rejoice in the Lord and be glad you righteous. -[4448.70 --> 4452.70] Sing all you who are upright in heart. -[4452.70 --> 4471.70] When we confess here in our worship, do you move from that silence, wasting away, groaning agony of sin through confession to the rejoicing and the being glad and the singing? -[4471.70 --> 4483.70] And if you struggle with experiencing that here or in your own life, use the community that God has given us. -[4483.70 --> 4484.70] Right? -[4484.70 --> 4485.70] Tell someone. -[4485.70 --> 4488.70] Confess this thing to someone. -[4488.70 --> 4490.70] Confess it with them. -[4490.70 --> 4491.70] Confess it with them. -[4491.70 --> 4493.70] And then see what God does in your experience. -[4493.70 --> 4499.70] See how God might minister to your heart as they minister to you and share the truth of the gospel. -[4499.70 --> 4503.70] That if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive. -[4507.70 --> 4512.70] If you listen to the Narthex podcast, you heard me make reference to this. -[4512.70 --> 4517.70] There's a 20th century German pastor by the name of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. -[4517.70 --> 4528.70] He was a pastor and theologian who was eventually killed by the Nazis for his insurgency work against the regime. -[4528.70 --> 4533.70] He said in a short little book that he wrote, he said the following. -[4533.70 --> 4541.70] A man who confesses his sins in the presence of a brother knows that he is no longer alone with himself. -[4541.70 --> 4546.70] He experiences the presence of God in the reality of the other person. -[4546.70 --> 4552.70] And as long as I am by myself in the confession of my sins, everything remains in the dark. -[4552.70 --> 4556.70] But in the presence of a brother, the sin has to be brought into the light. -[4556.70 --> 4563.70] But since the sin must come to light sometime, it is better that it happens today between me and my brother, -[4563.70 --> 4568.70] rather than on the last day in the piercing light of the final judgment. -[4568.70 --> 4573.70] It is a mercy that we can confess our sins to a brother. -[4575.70 --> 4582.70] This community of faith sustains you because you are never alone. -[4582.70 --> 4586.70] Not even in the sin that makes you think you're so alone. -[4586.70 --> 4596.70] When Jesus says, I will never leave you nor forsake you, one of the ways that he makes that a reality is by giving you this body, -[4596.70 --> 4601.70] by giving you a community, a family, a church to always be with you. -[4601.70 --> 4605.70] And let me be abundantly clear, this is the task of everyone. -[4605.70 --> 4608.70] This isn't just the pastor up front. -[4608.70 --> 4609.70] Right? -[4609.70 --> 4619.70] All of us in the priesthood of all believers are called to hear and to be present with each other in the midst. -[4619.70 --> 4620.70] Right? -[4620.70 --> 4625.70] In fact, the first place that this happens is not in some prime position, -[4625.70 --> 4631.70] but it is in the ordinary membership of the body living out ordinary life together. -[4631.70 --> 4632.70] Right? -[4632.70 --> 4639.70] Not just friends who are Christian, but actually Christian friends. -[4639.70 --> 4641.70] Right? -[4641.70 --> 4646.70] Friends who are Christian are those who you might sit beside on Sunday, -[4646.70 --> 4649.70] but it doesn't change anything about the way you interact together. -[4649.70 --> 4656.70] Christian friendship is built on this truth, these principles, -[4656.70 --> 4661.70] that the community of faith shapes you, sustains you, and celebrates you. -[4661.70 --> 4663.70] Which is our final point. -[4663.70 --> 4666.70] The community of faith celebrates you. -[4666.70 --> 4669.70] And here, hear me carefully. -[4669.70 --> 4670.70] Right? -[4670.70 --> 4676.70] I'm not saying that our task here is to puff you up with an inflated sense of self-worth. -[4676.70 --> 4677.70] Right? -[4677.70 --> 4683.70] Often you might hear today that all we need to have is a renewed sense of self-worth. -[4683.70 --> 4687.70] That if I'm just true to myself, I can be my authentic self. -[4687.70 --> 4693.70] I can be who I am as I am without other people telling me what's right for me or what's wrong for me. -[4693.70 --> 4698.70] Then, finally, will I feel alive and full and valuable. -[4698.70 --> 4701.70] The problem is, of course, right? -[4701.70 --> 4713.70] If we attach our feelings of, or if we attach our sense of value to an internal feeling that we need outside affirmation for, -[4713.70 --> 4721.70] well, I don't know about you, but my feelings are pretty fickle and they change in a whim and they always fall short. -[4721.70 --> 4728.70] When I say that we celebrate you, we celebrate each other, what I mean is we rejoice with you. -[4728.70 --> 4729.70] Right? -[4729.70 --> 4734.70] What I mean is that we cheer you on in the race of perseverance that we are called to. -[4734.70 --> 4736.70] This perseverance of faith, right? -[4736.70 --> 4737.70] Right through to the end. -[4737.70 --> 4741.70] The Bible has a picture of this, actually, in Hebrews 12. -[4741.70 --> 4743.70] Hebrews 12 says, -[4743.70 --> 4748.70] Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, -[4748.70 --> 4752.70] let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, -[4752.70 --> 4756.70] and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, -[4756.70 --> 4761.70] fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. -[4761.70 --> 4763.70] Now, picture that for a minute. -[4763.70 --> 4769.70] The author of Hebrews is using an image for faith and encouragement for perseverance -[4769.70 --> 4772.70] that is really replete throughout the New Testament. -[4772.70 --> 4776.70] And it's the idea of athletic games, particularly of a race. -[4776.70 --> 4782.70] Now, these kinds of games happened in cities all over the Roman Empire all the time. -[4782.70 --> 4788.70] Rulers and governors and the emperor himself would put on games, -[4788.70 --> 4793.70] usually at great expense to themselves, in order to entertain the masses -[4793.70 --> 4797.70] and probably to keep them paying their taxes. -[4797.70 --> 4810.70] And for the Greco-Roman culture, the gymnasium is just as central part of urban civilized living as the temple is. -[4810.70 --> 4817.70] And in the first century BC, the largest Roman stadium is called the Circus Maximus. -[4817.70 --> 4823.70] And it held 180,000 people. -[4823.70 --> 4826.70] Some estimates say that goes up to a quarter million people. -[4826.70 --> 4832.70] Now, to be really clear, that dwarfs even the largest stadiums today. -[4832.70 --> 4836.70] The largest stadium in the world today is in Ahmedabad, India, -[4836.70 --> 4838.70] and it's called the Narendi Modi Stadium. -[4838.70 --> 4842.70] It's a cricket stadium that holds 132,000 people. -[4842.70 --> 4848.70] The next one is Rungado Mayday Stadium in Pyongyang, North Korea. -[4848.70 --> 4851.70] It's a soccer stadium that holds 114,000 people. -[4851.70 --> 4858.70] And then rounding out the rest of the top ten list are a bunch of American football university stadiums -[4858.70 --> 4861.70] that all have over 100,000 people. -[4861.70 --> 4870.70] The point is, right, athletic games in the time of Paul and the other members of the New Testament here -[4870.70 --> 4876.70] is just as popular and just as central to the shaping of society as they are today. -[4876.70 --> 4883.70] Perhaps even more so, actually, when you consider that the global population during this time -[4883.70 --> 4887.70] is estimated to be about 300 million people. -[4887.70 --> 4890.70] That's smaller than the population of the U.S. currently. -[4890.70 --> 4892.70] All over the world. -[4892.70 --> 4895.70] And here you have a stadium that holds 180,000. -[4895.70 --> 4899.70] You can do the math on the percentages, but that's pretty high. -[4899.70 --> 4904.70] Stadiums are full of people cheering on the athletes. -[4904.70 --> 4909.70] And the author of Hebrews is saying that's what it's like to be a Christian. -[4909.70 --> 4917.70] To be surrounded by a stadium full of people cheering you on in your life of faith. -[4917.70 --> 4925.70] Part of what it means to be a community is to have the responsibility to encourage our brothers and sisters into faith. -[4925.70 --> 4928.70] To cheer them on in perseverance and to development. -[4928.70 --> 4931.70] Calling them to fix their eyes on Christ. -[4931.70 --> 4935.70] And it's not just, as we read in Hebrews 12, those saints who are alive. -[4935.70 --> 4939.70] It's all of us from all of history who are part of the church. -[4939.70 --> 4941.70] Militant and triumphant. -[4941.70 --> 4942.70] Alive and dead. -[4942.70 --> 4944.70] Visible and invisible. -[4944.70 --> 4946.70] Calling us forward in faith. -[4946.70 --> 4950.70] That's what it means to be part of a community of faith. -[4950.70 --> 4958.70] In the last verse of our text, Paul makes this point. -[4958.70 --> 4963.70] He says, all the churches of Christ send greetings. -[4963.70 --> 4966.70] Think about how profound that is. -[4966.70 --> 4974.70] First of all, it's profound in the sense that Paul can, with the authority of an apostle, speak for all of the churches. -[4974.70 --> 4979.70] Because it's the Holy Spirit speaking through him, inspiring his words to be the words of God. -[4979.70 --> 4980.70] Right? -[4980.70 --> 4991.70] This alone is profound because Paul is saying, all of the churches encourage you and celebrate you and long to shape and sustain you in what you are doing. -[4991.70 --> 4998.70] But it's also profound because all those saints are out there, recognizing, welcoming, and folding. -[4998.70 --> 5004.70] To use the language that we have here, shaping, sustaining, and celebrating this church in Rome. -[5004.70 --> 5006.70] Right? -[5006.70 --> 5016.70] This short line at the end of our text from chapter 16 is a picture for us of Hebrews 12 as a cloud of witnesses. -[5016.70 --> 5021.70] This is what we get to do together. -[5021.70 --> 5030.70] Now, in our family at home, I regularly talk with my kids about speaking words of life. -[5030.70 --> 5038.70] Now, this comes from Proverbs 18, verse 21, that says, the tongue has the power of life and death. -[5038.70 --> 5047.70] And so, when we say mean or hurtful things to each other, we're speaking death. -[5047.70 --> 5053.70] When you talk bad about people here, you're speaking death. -[5053.70 --> 5061.70] Instead, how can you speak life in this community? -[5061.70 --> 5067.70] And how can you use words that are filled with the power of life? -[5067.70 --> 5072.70] And so, here's a check for you and one that I incorporate in my own life, right? -[5072.70 --> 5085.70] Before you say anything critical, ask yourself, am I speaking life right now or am I speaking death? -[5085.70 --> 5096.70] Because some of us, and again, I'll put my own heart in this, some of us need to confess the words of death -[5096.70 --> 5103.70] that we have said about someone else in this room or not in this room. -[5107.70 --> 5113.70] This is what it means for the community of faith to celebrate you. -[5113.70 --> 5117.70] That the community of faith speaks life into your life. -[5117.70 --> 5120.70] That the community of faith speaks encouraging words. -[5120.70 --> 5128.70] That the community of faith, instead of hurting people or gossiping or slandering or talking down about them, let alone to them, -[5128.70 --> 5131.70] lifts people up with our words. -[5131.70 --> 5132.70] Right? -[5132.70 --> 5136.70] We build people up in life so that faith may persevere. -[5136.70 --> 5137.70] Right? -[5137.70 --> 5141.70] What you say and how you say it matters. -[5141.70 --> 5144.70] In the church, right? -[5144.70 --> 5149.70] Here, of all places, let's encourage each other. -[5149.70 --> 5151.70] Let's celebrate each other. -[5151.70 --> 5152.70] Right? -[5152.70 --> 5157.70] The community of faith shapes you and sustains you and celebrates you. -[5157.70 --> 5164.70] And so this is where I will end because this, I believe, pulls it all together. -[5164.70 --> 5171.70] All of this, this community, this faith, this community of faith that shapes you and sustains you and celebrates you, -[5171.70 --> 5175.70] all of this is a gift. -[5175.70 --> 5179.70] It is a gift of God in the work of the Holy Spirit. -[5179.70 --> 5180.70] Right? -[5180.70 --> 5182.70] You didn't build this community yourself. -[5182.70 --> 5188.70] You didn't merit this community or inherit this community because you figured it all out. -[5188.70 --> 5189.70] Or because you earned it. -[5189.70 --> 5192.70] Or because you've stood out above the rest and said, -[5192.70 --> 5195.70] yes, now you belong to me. -[5195.70 --> 5199.70] The truth is that you and I are elected to this community. -[5199.70 --> 5203.70] We are predestined to this community before the foundation of the world. -[5203.70 --> 5204.70] Right? -[5204.70 --> 5210.70] Adopted as sons and daughters of God and made into an heir of God and a co-heir with Christ. -[5210.70 --> 5217.70] God himself becomes our heavenly Father and he chose you out of all humanity. -[5217.70 --> 5227.70] He gave you his son and you belong to him, which means by grace through faith you belong to each other. -[5227.70 --> 5232.70] Because Jesus lived the life I should have lived and died the death that I deserved. -[5232.70 --> 5233.70] Right? -[5233.70 --> 5237.70] It is because Jesus is the bridegroom that I have become a part of the bride. -[5237.70 --> 5248.70] It is because Jesus gave up his own body on the cross so that I can be a part of his body in this life and in the life to come. -[5248.70 --> 5252.70] You see, Jesus is the gospel. -[5252.70 --> 5259.70] And now you and I get to live that gospel. -[5259.70 --> 5267.70] Part of what it means to live the gospel is experienced in how we shape each other. -[5267.70 --> 5271.70] It is experienced in how we sustain each other. -[5271.70 --> 5278.70] And it is experienced in how we celebrate each other. -[5278.70 --> 5280.70] You are not your own. -[5280.70 --> 5286.70] You were bought body and soul by your faithful Savior, Jesus Christ. -[5286.70 --> 5293.70] And not only has he given you himself, he has given you one another. -[5293.70 --> 5298.70] And that is a most beautiful gift of God. -[5298.70 --> 5299.70] Amen? -[5299.70 --> 5300.70] Let's pray. -[5300.70 --> 5308.70] Let's pray. -[5308.70 --> 5315.70] Holy and glorious Father, I praise your name for the gift of brothers and sisters. -[5315.70 --> 5328.70] I praise your name for the gift of those who share this common identity, who share this common union with you by grace through faith in Christ Jesus. -[5328.70 --> 5335.70] And I pray, Lord God, that you would use each of us here to speak words of life. -[5335.70 --> 5343.70] That you would use each of us here to shape one another into the image of Jesus Christ more and more. -[5343.70 --> 5350.70] I pray that you would use each one of us here to sustain each other, tough friends for tougher times. -[5350.70 --> 5356.70] And I pray that you would use each one here to celebrate one another. -[5356.70 --> 5363.70] To call us forward to fix our eyes on you, Lord Jesus. -[5363.70 --> 5370.70] And that together, together we might make much of your name in our midst. -[5370.70 --> 5376.70] Together we might go forward from this place proclaiming your kingdom come and your kingdom coming. -[5376.70 --> 5383.70] That together we might go from this place as one united in faith and hope. -[5383.70 --> 5387.70] Pray this, Jesus, in your name alone. -[5387.70 --> 5388.70] Amen. -[5396.70 --> 5397.70] Let's stand together. -[5397.70 --> 5412.70] Still culture, Father -[5412.70 --> 5430.38] He will be to the house of Zion. -[5430.38 --> 5435.64] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5435.92 --> 5440.38] And I pray things we will say together. -[5440.38 --> 5470.36] He will be to the house of Zion. -[5470.38 --> 5478.24] He will be to the house of Zion. -[5478.58 --> 5483.42] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5483.68 --> 5488.66] And I pray things we will say together. -[5488.66 --> 5494.66] We will please and we go home. -[5494.66 --> 5502.60] In the dark of night before the dawn. -[5503.52 --> 5507.92] My soul in heart will break. -[5508.30 --> 5512.66] For God is born beyond our love. -[5512.66 --> 5520.66] Oh God, I pray that we might be safe. -[5521.36 --> 5525.66] He will be to the house of Zion. -[5526.66 --> 5530.66] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5530.66 --> 5532.66] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5532.66 --> 5536.66] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5536.66 --> 5538.66] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5538.66 --> 5542.66] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5542.66 --> 5544.66] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5544.66 --> 5548.66] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5548.66 --> 5550.66] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5550.66 --> 5554.66] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5554.66 --> 5556.66] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5556.66 --> 5562.66] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5562.66 --> 5568.66] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5568.66 --> 5574.66] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5574.66 --> 5576.44] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5576.44 --> 5577.90] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5578.74 --> 5581.44] He will sing, our heart be sore. -[5584.78 --> 5588.36] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5588.58 --> 5591.54] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5591.54 --> 5596.62] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5597.08 --> 5599.44] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5599.62 --> 5601.68] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5601.72 --> 5604.10] He will sing, our hearts be sore. -[5604.10 --> 5612.74] We will say together, we will please and we know more. -[5623.08 --> 5627.54] As you go, know that God himself goes with you. -[5627.92 --> 5629.54] Go also with two invitations. -[5629.82 --> 5634.00] One, to hang around and fellowship in the community of faith. -[5634.36 --> 5639.20] Together, have some time of coffee and refreshment. -[5639.38 --> 5643.50] Encourage one another with your words and offer to pray for one another. -[5643.84 --> 5648.90] If that comes up and a need is expressed or a celebration is shared. -[5649.52 --> 5652.46] Additionally, we will have prayer partners available here. -[5652.80 --> 5655.26] If you'd like to meet someone, they will come up to the front. -[5655.26 --> 5659.98] They'll have a yellow tag on and they will meet you and pray with you there. -[5660.64 --> 5662.96] Go with the blessing of our good God. -[5664.68 --> 5666.80] God, go before you to lead you. -[5667.40 --> 5669.42] God, go behind you to protect you. -[5669.72 --> 5671.94] And God, go beneath you to support you. -[5672.30 --> 5675.10] God, go beside you to befriend you. -[5675.62 --> 5677.50] Do not be afraid. -[5677.96 --> 5679.92] Let the blessing of God come upon today. -[5680.06 --> 5681.56] Do not be afraid. -[5681.56 --> 5686.24] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[5686.24 --> 5687.80] Amen. -[5687.80 --> 5687.88] Amen. -[5687.88 --> 5702.02] Praise God, from whom all blessings flow. -[5702.02 --> 5714.32] Praise Him, all creatures here below. -[5714.32 --> 5727.72] Praise Him above the heavenly host. -[5727.72 --> 5740.88] Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. -[5740.88 --> 5746.80] Amen. -[5746.80 --> 5747.92] Amen. -[5748.44 --> 5750.06] Amen. -[5750.06 --> 5760.22] Hmmm... -[5760.74 --> 5763.68] family喝 -[5763.68 --> 5793.66] Thank you. -[5793.68 --> 5823.66] Thank you. -[5823.68 --> 5853.66] Thank you. -[5853.68 --> 5883.66] Thank you. -[5883.68 --> 5913.66] Thank you. -[5913.68 --> 5943.66] Thank you. -[5943.68 --> 5973.66] Thank you. -[5973.68 --> 6003.66] Thank you. -[6003.68 --> 6033.66] Thank you. -[6033.68 --> 6063.66] Thank you. -[6063.68 --> 6093.66] Thank you. -[6093.68 --> 6123.66] Thank you. -[6123.68 --> 6153.66] Thank you. -[6153.68 --> 6183.66] Thank you. -[6183.68 --> 6213.66] Thank you. -[6213.68 --> 6243.66] Thank you. -[6243.68 --> 6273.66] Thank you. -[6273.68 --> 6303.66] Thank you. -[6303.68 --> 6333.66] Thank you. -[6333.68 --> 6363.66] Thank you. -[6363.68 --> 6393.66] Thank you. -[6393.68 --> 6423.66] Thank you. -[6423.68 --> 6453.66] Thank you. -[6453.68 --> 6483.66] Thank you. -[6483.68 --> 6513.66] Thank you. -[6513.68 --> 6543.66] Thank you. -[6543.68 --> 6573.66] Thank you. -[6573.68 --> 6603.66] Thank you. -[6603.68 --> 6633.66] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, May 4, 2025_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, May 4, 2025_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 4dd98ab39bf2ce37b48826e32ae1a647cda17734..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, May 4, 2025_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,92 +0,0 @@ -• Resurrection and eternal life of Christ -• Christ's power and reign -• The believer's relationship with Christ and the laying down of burdens -• God's healing and salvation -• Worship and praise to God -• The pastor mentions the GEMS (young girls ministry) is away for a camping weekend, but included in worship -• Brenda makes an announcement on behalf of the deacons about the baby bottle campaign and Advocate's Walk for Life fundraiser -• Upcoming events: youth coffee gathering at Pastor Kevin's house after service, celebration of John and Elsa Hubert's 50th wedding anniversary with cake -• Call to worship from Romans chapter 11 -• Reading of scripture (Romans 11:33-36) -• Song or hymn with lyrics praising God's name and holiness -• References to angels, creation, and redeemed people singing praise to God -• Repetition of the phrase "Holy" and its variations -• The congregation sings hymns including "Worthy is the Lamb" and "All I Have is Christ" -• A liturgy for those struggling with destructive desires is read from the book "Every Moment Holy" by Douglas Kane McKelvie -• The speaker encourages reflection on the words and a prayer to reorient one's life around God's love and will -• Hymns including "I Once Was Lost in Darkest Night" and others are sung, expressing themes of redemption, dependence on God, and worship -• Praise and declaration of God's victory -• Welcoming new church members, Cole and Natasha, and their child Adrian into the church fellowship -• Baptism of Adrian -• Explanation of baptism as a sign and seal of forgiveness and life in the Spirit -• Affirmation of faith by Cole and Natasha -• Discussion of church membership process -• Baptism and its significance -• Questions to Cole and Natasha about their faith and commitment -• Invitation for children to come forward -• Explanation of baptism's meaning and Jesus' promise -• Baptism of Adrian -• Congregation's promises to love and support the new family members -• Blessing of Adrian by the pastor -• The introduction of Adrian and his journey of faith -• The church's hope for Adrian to grow in his faith and become part of the church family -• The celebration of Adrian joining the church with cake and song -• The gift-giving ceremony, including a book and new member booklet -• The singing of "Be Thou My Vision" -• The continuation of giving gifts through the budget and special offering for World Renew Disaster Response -• Prayer or worship session -• Announcing kids' corner and inviting children to come down -• Welcoming Hank back from his absence -• Story of Hank helping at his uncle's sheep farm, learning about taking care of sheep -• Discussion of Jesus teaching disciples about taking care of sheep -• Question from a child asking why Hank talks in a silly voice -• Transitioning to children's worship time for Q&A -• Discussing what it means to take care of sheep -• Prayer and Lord's blessing -• Church family prayer led by Elder Ken -• Confession of struggles with trust and faith -• Prayers for various individuals and families dealing with health issues, loss, and grief -• Pray for comfort and peace in times of sorrow -• Acknowledge tragic events and pray for those affected -• Celebrate joys and blessings, including recent marriages and anniversaries. -• Prayers for a family called the Gems who are on camp -• Prayer for Emmanuel Church leaders and their upcoming council meeting -• Pray for government leaders and the country -• Reflection on gathering in worship during difficult or celebratory times -• Reading from 1 Thessalonians 5:23-28, focusing on God's promise to bring believers closer to Him -• God promises to carry us through difficulties and hardships -• Sanctification means being set apart for God's purposes and growing in Christ-like character -• Submission is key to sanctification and growing in faith -• Being a Christian can be hard and lead to persecution, but it brings a deeper identity and love from God -• The world tries to impose its own identity on us, but our true identity comes from being known by God as his child -• The importance of living a whole life, oriented towards God's goals and purposes -• Overcoming spiritual apathy and laziness to persevere in faith -• Remembering one's identity in Christ Jesus and being preserved in faith -• Trusting God more than oneself and believing in His goodness and promises -• The faithful nature of God, who will do what He says He will do -• Prayer and calling on God's name in faith -• The relationship between God and believers is not just a passive one, but an active partnership where God walks with them through life. -• Christians are called to blameless living, which is made possible by God's work in them. -• The Christian life is not just about being carried along by God, but also involves cooperation with the Holy Spirit. -• There are two wrong ideas of the Christian life: being "frozen chosen" (waiting for God to do everything) and moralism/legalism (thinking that our efforts keep us on the right path). -• The correct understanding is a partnership where believers actively work out their salvation with God's help. -• The idea that our active involvement in faith is not the sole means of receiving God's grace -• Comparing faith to sailing: hoisting the sails (our actions) while relying on the wind of the Holy Spirit for propulsion -• The power of the Holy Spirit and obedience in sanctification and moving towards spiritual goals -• God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, including sending Jesus to save humanity from sin and death -• Identity in Christ and being a child of God through faith -• The importance of community and praying for one another as brothers and sisters in faith -• The redefinition of family by God's grace and the marks of Christian community (such as greeting each other with a holy kiss) -• The importance of welcoming and acknowledging one's spiritual family in worship -• A call to recognize that one's identity is not solely defined by biological relationships, but also by their relationship with God -• Reading a letter or promise from scripture as fuel for the invitation to love and serve each other -• Inviting the congregation to pray together, seeking transformation and guidance from the Holy Spirit -• Reciting the hymn "Be Still My Soul" as a declaration of trust and hope in God's presence and provision -• God's presence and protection -• Psalm-like prayer with themes of guidance, strength, and deliverance -• Request for healing and spiritual nourishment -• Longing for safe passage to a promised land (Canaan) -• Expressed fear and anxiety about death and hell's destruction -• Desire to sing praises to God -• Repetition of the word "so" or similar expressions ( possibly indicating a sense of longing or yearning) -• A final message of lifting up a shout or cry, with the aim of shaking the ground. \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, May 4, 2025_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, May 4, 2025_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index ddf37f8007dd27e886aa9258e23b8d04282f8be6..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, May 4, 2025_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1401 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 14.14] And from the cross to an empty grave, He rose to life, He rose to life. -[14.14 --> 28.42] He lives, reigning in power. He lives, name above all names. Hallelujah. -[30.00 --> 39.54] Now forever. Hallelujah. Christ is risen. -[40.98 --> 57.26] All glory to Him upon the throne. Forever exalted and seated at the Lamb of God. -[57.26 --> 67.00] He has overcome. He is alive. He is alive. -[67.00 --> 82.26] He lives, reigning in power. He lives, name above all names. Hallelujah. -[82.26 --> 97.00] Now forever. Hallelujah. Christ is risen. He is risen. -[97.00 --> 109.58] And on that day with Him I rise. For Christ He lives in me. -[109.58 --> 111.32] He lives. -[111.32 --> 122.32] This life I live. No longer mine. For Christ He lives in me. -[122.32 --> 124.06] Oh. -[124.06 --> 135.06] And on that day with Him I rise. For Christ He lives in me. -[135.06 --> 136.06] He lives. -[136.06 --> 137.80] He lives. -[137.80 --> 151.80] He lives. -[151.80 --> 157.54] He lives. -[157.54 --> 160.54] He lives. -[160.54 --> 162.54] He lives. -[162.54 --> 163.54] He lives. -[163.54 --> 165.54] of all names -[165.54 --> 167.54] Hallelujah -[167.54 --> 171.54] Now forever -[171.54 --> 173.54] Hallelujah -[173.54 --> 177.54] Christ is risen -[177.54 --> 179.54] Healing -[179.54 --> 183.54] Reigning in power -[183.54 --> 185.54] Healing -[185.54 --> 189.54] In the name of all names -[189.54 --> 191.54] Hallelujah -[191.54 --> 193.54] Hallelujah -[193.54 --> 195.54] Now forever -[195.54 --> 197.54] Hallelujah -[197.54 --> 201.54] Christ is risen -[201.54 --> 207.54] At the feet of Jesus I will lay my verse -[207.54 --> 217.54] My burdens down -[217.54 --> 219.54] I will lay my burdens down -[219.54 --> 229.54] I will lay my heavy burdens down -[229.54 --> 231.54] I will lay my heavy burdens down -[231.54 --> 235.54] I will lay my heavy burdens down -[235.54 --> 239.54] In the stillness I can hear my Savior calling out -[239.54 --> 243.54] Come to me and lay your burdens down -[243.54 --> 245.54] I will lay your burdens down -[245.54 --> 247.54] I will lay my burdens down -[247.54 --> 249.54] I will lay my burdens down -[249.54 --> 251.54] I will lay down my struggles -[251.54 --> 253.54] I will lay down my shame -[253.54 --> 255.54] And all the fear I drive around through this life -[255.54 --> 257.54] Like a ball and chain -[257.54 --> 259.54] And I will sing -[259.54 --> 261.54] And I will lay my burdens down -[261.54 --> 263.54] And I will lay my burdens down -[263.54 --> 265.54] And I will lay my burdens down -[265.54 --> 267.54] And I will lay my burdens down -[267.54 --> 269.54] And I will lay my shame -[269.54 --> 271.54] And all the fear I drive around through this life -[271.54 --> 273.54] Like a ball and chain -[273.54 --> 275.54] And I will sing -[275.54 --> 277.54] Hallelujah to the one who sets me free -[277.54 --> 283.54] And you will find me at the feet of Jesus -[283.54 --> 289.54] And you will find me at the feet of Jesus -[289.54 --> 293.54] And you will find me at the feet of Jesus -[293.54 --> 303.54] In the arms of Jesus I will find my peace and rest -[303.54 --> 305.54] I hear Him calling -[305.54 --> 309.54] I hear Him calling, come to me, yes -[309.54 --> 313.54] Carried by my shepherd -[313.54 --> 317.54] Cradled tightly to His chest -[317.54 --> 323.54] There and there alone my soul finds rest -[323.54 --> 331.54] So I will rest in the shelter of my Saviour's embrace -[331.54 --> 337.54] Hidden safely in the refuge of His mercy and His grace -[337.54 --> 347.54] And I will sing hallelujah to the one who sets me free -[347.54 --> 353.54] And you will find me in the arms of Jesus -[353.54 --> 355.54] The arms of Jesus -[383.54 --> 385.54] To the Himalayas -[385.54 --> 389.54] To the Himalayas -[389.54 --> 393.54] To the Himalayas -[393.54 --> 395.54] Water you turned into wine -[395.54 --> 399.54] Open the eyes of the blind -[399.54 --> 403.54] There's no one like you -[403.54 --> 405.54] None like you -[405.54 --> 407.54] None like you -[407.54 --> 414.16] Into the darkness you shine -[414.16 --> 418.94] Out of the ashes we rise -[418.94 --> 421.54] There's no one like you -[421.54 --> 427.50] None like you -[427.50 --> 431.34] Our God is greater -[431.34 --> 433.80] Our God is stronger -[433.80 --> 437.22] God you are higher than any -[437.22 --> 438.24] Other -[438.24 --> 440.92] Our God is healer -[440.92 --> 442.90] Awesome in power -[442.90 --> 444.18] Our God -[444.18 --> 447.30] Our God -[447.30 --> 459.96] Into the darkness you shine -[459.96 --> 464.64] Out of the ashes we rise -[464.64 --> 467.34] There's no one like you -[467.34 --> 472.64] None like you -[472.64 --> 477.04] Our God is greater -[477.04 --> 479.50] Our God is stronger -[479.50 --> 482.96] God you are higher than any -[482.96 --> 483.98] Other -[483.98 --> 498.16] Good morning -[498.16 --> 501.52] Good morning -[501.52 --> 502.48] There it is -[502.48 --> 504.22] I love the murmur -[504.22 --> 505.36] This morning -[505.36 --> 507.24] It seems like there's a lot of excitement -[507.24 --> 509.04] To gather together -[509.04 --> 511.10] It is so good to be together -[511.10 --> 512.98] And to worship our God this morning -[512.98 --> 514.54] If you're a guest here -[514.54 --> 515.30] My name is Chris -[515.30 --> 517.90] I'm one of the pastors at Emanuel -[517.90 --> 520.54] And it's my privilege with these others -[520.54 --> 523.88] To lead in our shared worship this morning -[523.88 --> 526.78] If you are a regular here -[526.78 --> 529.92] You might look around and notice a missing demographic -[529.92 --> 532.88] And that is because the GEMS -[532.88 --> 534.48] Our young girls ministry -[534.48 --> 536.48] Is camping this weekend -[536.48 --> 539.06] And so they're having their own worship service at camp -[539.06 --> 541.04] Together with a few other leaders -[541.04 --> 544.12] And so they aren't here with us this morning -[544.12 --> 546.88] But they are indeed there at camp worshiping together -[546.88 --> 548.76] And so we include them in our worship -[548.76 --> 550.36] And we pray with them and for them -[550.36 --> 552.24] In that weekend time together -[552.24 --> 553.36] Before we begin -[553.36 --> 555.28] We do have a couple announcements to make -[555.28 --> 557.44] And so I'm going to invite Brenda up to the front -[557.44 --> 559.66] She's going to make an announcement on behalf of the deacons -[559.66 --> 562.00] And then while she's coming up -[562.00 --> 563.88] I just want to invite everyone -[563.88 --> 566.04] Following our worship this morning -[566.04 --> 568.40] We will have an opportunity to gather -[568.40 --> 570.28] For refreshments at the back -[570.28 --> 572.52] And you may have noticed on your way in -[572.52 --> 573.76] Some tables set up -[573.76 --> 577.52] And that's because we are being invited -[577.52 --> 580.54] To celebrate the 50th wedding anniversary -[580.54 --> 583.66] Of John and Elsa Hubert's -[583.66 --> 587.26] And so they have provided cake for us to share together -[587.26 --> 593.16] And so that is after our service together -[593.16 --> 595.08] Please stick around for that -[595.08 --> 595.68] Brenda -[595.68 --> 597.20] Good morning -[597.20 --> 599.00] On behalf of the deacons -[599.00 --> 600.24] I just wanted to do -[600.24 --> 602.06] This is a heads up announcement -[602.06 --> 604.22] For next week Sunday -[604.22 --> 606.04] Which is Mother's Day -[606.04 --> 609.94] We are going to be doing the baby bottle campaign -[609.94 --> 612.26] We're joining with Advocate again -[612.26 --> 613.42] And so we're starting -[613.42 --> 616.74] We'll be starting handing out baby bottles next week -[616.74 --> 618.16] That -[618.16 --> 621.14] And it will run till Father's Day in June -[621.14 --> 623.50] And you can fill those with -[623.50 --> 624.12] You take them home -[624.12 --> 625.28] You can fill them with cash -[625.28 --> 625.76] A check -[625.76 --> 628.34] There will be a sheet inside of them -[628.34 --> 631.00] That you can also just go directly to their website -[631.00 --> 632.60] However you would like to give -[632.60 --> 636.02] But that is going to be started next week -[636.02 --> 638.34] Also if you are interested -[638.34 --> 641.06] Advocate is hosting another fundraiser -[641.06 --> 642.56] Which is their Walk for Life -[642.56 --> 645.52] And that will be June the 7th -[645.52 --> 646.94] From 1230 to 4 -[646.94 --> 649.36] At Mill Lake Park in Abbotsford -[649.36 --> 650.28] Thank you -[650.28 --> 651.68] Thanks Brenda -[651.68 --> 654.62] And then lastly -[654.62 --> 655.80] Today -[655.80 --> 657.58] Our youth ministry -[657.58 --> 660.16] Is having youth coffee -[660.16 --> 663.18] Together following our worship service -[663.18 --> 664.88] And so that's where the youth ministry -[664.88 --> 666.34] Go to someone's house -[666.34 --> 667.74] From our church family -[667.74 --> 668.96] And have coffee -[668.96 --> 669.96] A little lunch there -[669.96 --> 671.14] After our service -[671.14 --> 673.50] And that is happening at the Porter's house -[673.50 --> 675.22] And so Tara is at the back -[675.22 --> 677.00] She can tell you where to go -[677.00 --> 678.78] Or Pastor Kevin can tell you where to go -[678.78 --> 679.58] But -[679.58 --> 680.90] I need you to hear this -[680.90 --> 682.08] Tara has asked -[682.08 --> 685.76] That you stay and enjoy the cake and coffee here -[685.76 --> 687.40] So she has time to get home -[687.40 --> 688.86] And prepare for all y'all showing up -[688.86 --> 690.90] She doesn't want to arrive -[690.90 --> 692.62] To like 30 of you waiting eagerly -[692.62 --> 693.58] To get into her house -[693.58 --> 695.10] So just give her some time -[695.10 --> 697.14] To transition to hosting you there -[697.14 --> 698.30] She would appreciate that -[698.30 --> 699.66] I think that's it -[699.66 --> 700.92] For our announcements this morning -[700.92 --> 701.98] So I'm going to invite you -[701.98 --> 702.72] As you're able -[702.72 --> 703.30] And where you are -[703.30 --> 703.92] To stand -[703.92 --> 705.30] So we can be gathered up -[705.30 --> 706.62] Into the presence of God -[706.62 --> 707.52] Together -[707.52 --> 713.02] God is here among us -[713.02 --> 713.96] We know that -[713.96 --> 715.00] And we mark that -[715.00 --> 717.06] By receiving his greeting -[717.06 --> 719.46] And by turning that greeting -[719.46 --> 720.26] From God -[720.26 --> 721.02] To a greeting -[721.02 --> 722.08] To one another -[722.08 --> 723.58] And so after I give you -[723.58 --> 724.80] God's greeting this morning -[724.80 --> 725.76] I invite you to turn -[725.76 --> 726.70] To those around you -[726.70 --> 727.70] And to welcome them -[727.70 --> 728.94] In the name of the Lord -[728.94 --> 729.94] Into worship -[729.94 --> 730.98] Saying the Lord be with you -[730.98 --> 731.82] Peace of Christ -[731.82 --> 732.78] Be with you -[732.78 --> 733.76] As we worship together -[733.76 --> 734.44] This morning -[734.44 --> 735.38] Receive the greeting -[735.38 --> 736.30] Of our God -[736.30 --> 738.66] Grace -[738.66 --> 740.26] Mercy -[740.26 --> 741.88] Peace to you -[741.88 --> 743.20] From God our Father -[743.20 --> 744.32] From the Lord Jesus Christ -[744.32 --> 744.86] His Son -[744.86 --> 745.78] And our Savior -[745.78 --> 746.84] Through the presence -[746.84 --> 747.46] And power -[747.46 --> 748.82] Of the Holy Spirit -[748.82 --> 750.16] Amen -[764.44 --> 767.36] You -[767.36 --> 776.58] And our notre -[776.58 --> 778.32] Know -[778.32 --> 779.06] And our -[779.06 --> 780.80] Our -[780.80 --> 781.94] Dialogue -[781.94 --> 782.48] Time -[782.48 --> 782.92] To -[782.92 --> 784.32] We're -[784.32 --> 785.50] hearing -[785.50 --> 787.02] When we're -[787.02 --> 787.50] Those -[787.50 --> 789.46] Trying to -[789.46 --> 790.52] Call -[790.52 --> 791.00] To -[792.04 --> 793.40] Let them -[793.40 --> 796.32] Late night? Late night? -[800.28 --> 801.92] Good morning, everyone. -[802.20 --> 808.72] Our call to worship this morning comes from Romans chapter 11, verses 33 to 36. -[809.50 --> 814.00] Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God. -[814.70 --> 819.46] How unsearchable his judgments and his paths beyond tracing out. -[819.46 --> 824.38] Who has known the mind of the Lord or who has been his counselor? -[825.30 --> 829.80] Who has ever given to God that God should repay them? -[830.98 --> 835.60] For from him and through him and for him are all things. -[836.12 --> 838.62] To him be the glory forever. Amen. -[849.46 --> 858.96] A thousand generations falling down in worship -[858.96 --> 864.30] To sing the song of ages to the Lamb -[864.30 --> 869.76] And all who've gone before us -[869.76 --> 872.30] And all who will redeem -[872.30 --> 877.76] Will sing the song of ages to the Lamb -[877.76 --> 882.92] Your name is the highest -[882.92 --> 886.36] Your name is the greatest -[886.36 --> 888.54] Your name -[888.54 --> 892.36] Stands above them all -[892.36 --> 896.36] All thrones and dominions -[897.16 --> 900.02] All powers and positions -[900.02 --> 902.14] Your name -[902.14 --> 905.48] Stands above them all -[905.48 --> 908.36] And the angels cry -[908.36 --> 910.36] Holy -[910.36 --> 911.36] Holy -[911.36 --> 914.36] All creation cries -[914.36 --> 916.36] Holy -[916.36 --> 917.36] Holy -[917.36 --> 921.36] You are lifted high -[921.36 --> 924.36] Holy -[924.36 --> 925.36] Holy -[925.36 --> 928.36] Holy forever -[928.36 --> 937.10] If you've been forgiven -[937.10 --> 940.36] And if you've been redeemed -[940.36 --> 945.36] We'll sing the song forever to the Lamb -[945.36 --> 948.36] Amen -[948.36 --> 951.36] And if you walk in freedom -[951.36 --> 954.36] And if you bear his name -[954.36 --> 959.36] We'll sing this song forever to the Lamb -[959.36 --> 966.36] We'll sing this song forever and Amen -[966.36 --> 970.36] And the angels cry -[970.36 --> 977.30] Holy, all creation cries. -[977.80 --> 983.36] Holy, you are lifted high. -[984.58 --> 990.16] Holy, holy forever. -[993.16 --> 996.36] Hear your people sing. -[996.36 --> 1004.16] Holy to the King of kings. -[1005.00 --> 1010.36] Holy, you will always be. -[1011.74 --> 1017.24] Holy, holy forever. -[1017.24 --> 1019.24] Holy, holy forever. -[1019.24 --> 1026.10] Your name is the highest. -[1026.74 --> 1029.56] Your name is the greatest. -[1030.20 --> 1035.24] Your name stands above them all. -[1035.24 --> 1040.42] All thrones and dominions. -[1040.58 --> 1043.20] All powers and positions. -[1043.84 --> 1048.60] Your name stands above them all. -[1048.86 --> 1051.24] And the angels cry. -[1052.64 --> 1058.24] Holy, all creation cries. -[1058.24 --> 1065.44] Holy, you are lifted high. -[1065.94 --> 1071.36] Holy, holy forever. -[1075.02 --> 1078.38] Hear your people sing. -[1079.38 --> 1084.24] Holy to the King of kings. -[1084.24 --> 1091.24] Holy, you will always be. -[1092.24 --> 1097.24] Holy, holy forever. -[1100.24 --> 1104.24] You will always be. -[1106.24 --> 1111.24] Holy, holy forever. -[1111.24 --> 1118.24] Holy, holy. -[1118.24 --> 1130.00] Holy, holy are you, Lord God almighty. -[1130.00 --> 1134.00] Worthy is the Lamb. -[1134.00 --> 1138.00] Worthy is the Lamb. -[1138.00 --> 1141.00] You are holy. -[1141.00 --> 1151.00] Holy, holy are you, Lord God almighty. -[1151.00 --> 1152.00] Worthy is the Lamb. -[1152.00 --> 1153.00] Worthy is the Lamb. -[1153.00 --> 1154.00] Worthy is the Lamb. -[1154.00 --> 1156.00] Worthy is the Lamb. -[1156.00 --> 1157.00] Worthy is the Lamb. -[1157.00 --> 1159.00] Worthy is the Lamb. -[1159.00 --> 1162.00] For you are holy. -[1162.00 --> 1172.00] Holy, holy are you, Lord God almighty. -[1172.00 --> 1173.00] Worthy is the Lamb. -[1173.00 --> 1174.00] Worthy is the Lamb. -[1174.00 --> 1175.00] Worthy is the Lamb. -[1175.00 --> 1180.00] Worthy is the Lamb. -[1180.00 --> 1183.00] For you are holy. -[1183.00 --> 1192.00] Holy are you, Lord God almighty. -[1192.00 --> 1206.00] almighty worthy is the man worthy is the man for you are holy -[1206.00 --> 1218.00] holy are you lord god almighty worthy is the lamb -[1218.00 --> 1236.00] worthy is the lamb for you are holy holy are you lord god almighty -[1236.00 --> 1246.00] worthy is the man worthy is the man -[1248.00 --> 1250.00] you may have a seat -[1250.00 --> 1262.80] our confession this morning are words from a gentleman named douglas kane mckelvie from a -[1263.44 --> 1270.24] book called every moment holy and this is a liturgy for those of us all of us who -[1270.24 --> 1278.24] have destructive desires in our life and i think we can all relate to something in our life that's -[1278.24 --> 1285.44] destructive at any point and so i just encourage you to reflect on these words this prayer close your -[1285.44 --> 1293.12] eyes if you wish uh here are the words a liturgy for one battling a destructive desire -[1295.92 --> 1304.48] jesus here i am again desiring a thing that were i to indulge in it would war against my own heart -[1304.48 --> 1314.40] and the hearts of those i love oh christ rather let my life be thine take my desires let them be -[1314.40 --> 1321.44] subsumed in still greater desire for you until there remains no room for these lesser cravings -[1321.44 --> 1330.08] in this moment i might choose to indulge a fleeting hunger or i might choose to love you more -[1331.68 --> 1340.96] faced with temptation i would rather choose you jesus but i am weak so be my strength i am shadowed be my -[1340.96 --> 1349.84] light i am selfish unmake me now and refashion my desires according to the better designs of your love -[1349.84 --> 1360.56] love given the choice of shame or glory let me choose glory given the choice of this moment or eternity let me -[1360.56 --> 1369.36] choose in this moment what is eternal given the choice of this easy pleasure or the harder road of the cross -[1370.40 --> 1378.48] give me grace to choose to follow you knowing that there is nowhere apart from your presence where i might -[1378.48 --> 1388.88] find the peace i long for no lasting satisfaction apart from the reclamation of my heart let me build then my king -[1389.44 --> 1399.20] a beautiful thing by long obedience by the steady progression of small choices that laid end to end will become like stones -[1399.84 --> 1408.40] of a pleasing path stretching to eternity and unto your welcoming arms and unto the sound of your -[1408.40 --> 1412.48] your voice pronouncing the judgment well done -[1416.16 --> 1429.36] please stand and join us as we continue to sing all i have is christ -[1429.36 --> 1438.32] your voice -[1438.32 --> 1456.96] i once was lost in darkest night yet thought i knew the way the sin that promised joy and life -[1456.96 --> 1469.36] had led me to the grave i had no hope that you would hold a rebel to -[1469.36 --> 1481.92] your will and if you had not loved me first i would refuse you still -[1481.92 --> 1490.88] still -[1490.88 --> 1492.88] but as i ran -[1492.88 --> 1498.00] my hell-bound grace indifferent to -[1498.00 --> 1502.88] the cost you looked upon -[1502.88 --> 1511.84] my helpless state and led me to -[1511.84 --> 1520.80] and i beheld god's love displayed you suffered in -[1520.80 --> 1530.80] my place you bore the wrath reserved for me now all i know is -[1530.80 --> 1553.84] my -[1553.84 --> 1572.56] is my life now lord i would be yours alone and live so all might see the strength to follow -[1572.56 --> 1590.16] your commands could never come from me oh father use my ransom life in any way you choose -[1590.16 --> 1599.60] and let my song forever be my only post is you -[1603.52 --> 1613.28] all i have is christ -[1613.28 --> 1633.92] alleluia jesus is my life alleluia all i have is christ -[1633.92 --> 1647.92] alleluia jesus is my life -[1647.92 --> 1669.52] this is my prayer in the desert when all that's within me feels dry -[1669.52 --> 1677.52] this is my prayer in my hunger and need my god is the god who provides -[1679.20 --> 1685.52] this is my prayer in the fire in weakness or trial or pain -[1685.52 --> 1703.20] i will bring praise i will bring praise no weapon formed against me shall remain -[1703.20 --> 1711.20] i will rejoice i will declare god is my victory and he is -[1711.20 --> 1717.20] me -[1717.20 --> 1726.40] this is my prayer in the battle when triumph is still on its way -[1726.40 --> 1732.40] i am -[1732.40 --> 1736.40] i am -[1736.40 --> 1742.40] i will bring praise i will bring praise no weapon formed against me shall remain -[1742.40 --> 1754.40] i will rejoice i will declare god is my victory and he is -[1754.40 --> 1756.88] i will -[1756.88 --> 1760.32] and i will bring praise no weapon -[1760.32 --> 1762.40] i am -[1762.40 --> 1764.40] i will bring praise no weapon -[1764.40 --> 1766.40] i am -[1766.40 --> 1768.40] i am -[1768.40 --> 1770.40] i am -[1770.40 --> 1772.40] i am -[1772.40 --> 1774.40] i am -[1774.40 --> 1776.40] i am -[1776.40 --> 1778.40] i am -[1778.40 --> 1780.40] i am -[1780.40 --> 1802.40] i am -[1802.40 --> 1804.40] i am -[1804.40 --> 1807.78] I have a reason to worship. -[1810.94 --> 1817.20] All of my life, in every season, you are still God. -[1817.60 --> 1820.54] I have a reason to sing. -[1821.60 --> 1824.54] I have a reason to worship. -[1826.80 --> 1829.36] I will bring praise. -[1829.46 --> 1831.38] I will bring praise. -[1831.38 --> 1835.24] No weapon formed against me shall remain. -[1835.78 --> 1837.46] I will rejoice. -[1838.02 --> 1839.40] I will declare. -[1840.18 --> 1844.14] God is my victory and He is here. -[1844.52 --> 1846.48] I will bring praise. -[1846.76 --> 1848.60] I will bring praise. -[1848.98 --> 1852.36] No weapon formed against me shall remain. -[1853.04 --> 1854.56] I will rejoice. -[1855.24 --> 1856.50] I will declare. -[1856.50 --> 1861.46] God is my victory and He is here. -[1861.46 --> 1862.46] God is my victory and He is here. -[1862.46 --> 1863.46] I will declare. -[1863.46 --> 1864.46] I will declare. -[1864.46 --> 1865.46] I will declare. -[1865.46 --> 1866.46] I will declare. -[1866.46 --> 1867.46] I will declare. -[1867.46 --> 1868.46] I will declare. -[1868.46 --> 1869.46] I will declare. -[1869.46 --> 1872.46] This is my prayer in the harvest. -[1872.46 --> 1877.46] When favor and providence flow. -[1877.46 --> 1882.46] I know I fail to be emptied again. -[1882.46 --> 1885.46] The seed I've received. -[1885.46 --> 1887.46] I will sow. -[1887.46 --> 1891.60] You may have a seat. -[1901.32 --> 1904.84] We just sang, the seed I have received, I will sow. -[1905.28 --> 1912.14] And we have the opportunity to give thanks to God for seeds sown and planted, watered, -[1912.14 --> 1915.46] and received as we welcome new members. -[1915.46 --> 1921.78] And so I didn't say it earlier, but a special welcome to you if you're here for Cole and Natasha -[1921.78 --> 1926.56] and for Adrian, and thank you for joining with us in worship this morning. -[1927.16 --> 1935.46] We're going to invite Cole and Natasha up to the front as we welcome them into our shared -[1935.46 --> 1940.44] church family together, and then we will baptize Adrian following that. -[1940.44 --> 1947.80] This morning we are blessed to welcome you guys officially into our church fellowship -[1947.80 --> 1948.44] and family. -[1948.44 --> 1951.32] You've been worshiping with us for a while now, and we're grateful for that. -[1951.76 --> 1954.40] Let's move over there so that we can stand together. -[1956.68 --> 1960.28] Cole and Natasha come to us from Linden, Washington. -[1960.68 --> 1964.48] They make the trip in multiple times every week for different things. -[1964.62 --> 1970.34] Natasha has been part of our coffee break program every Tuesday, and sometimes because -[1970.34 --> 1974.88] of Adrian, she's not in that group, but hangs out with the staff when we have coffee at -[1974.88 --> 1975.62] that same time. -[1975.78 --> 1978.66] And so we've gotten to know her in that way too, which has been a lot of fun. -[1979.66 --> 1984.58] As part of our membership process, I run a membership class a few times a year. -[1985.36 --> 1990.54] And if you're wondering what kind of people Cole and Natasha are, let me tell you that Cole -[1990.54 --> 1996.88] asked the most particular and unexpected question I've ever been asked during one of these new -[1996.88 --> 1997.58] member classes. -[1998.48 --> 2001.46] And I'm going to let you talk to them and ask him what that question was. -[2002.92 --> 2004.64] It was about the gift of apostleship. -[2007.84 --> 2013.80] As we welcome you this morning, Cole and Natasha, we welcome you into the fellowship of this church. -[2013.80 --> 2019.72] And it's our hope and our prayer that here, together, your faith in God will be strengthened, -[2020.18 --> 2025.80] that your love for Jesus will be grown, and that you will find opportunity to serve in the spirit -[2025.80 --> 2031.38] as you join with us on mission for this community, this neighborhood, and to the world. -[2032.24 --> 2036.82] As we welcome you into this church family, we ask that you would affirm the faith that you have -[2036.82 --> 2043.48] professed and your commitment to God's mission in and through Langley and Linden, in and through -[2043.48 --> 2046.38] this city and region, and to the world. -[2046.74 --> 2048.56] And to do so, I'm going to ask you three questions. -[2049.06 --> 2053.06] After I ask all three, I invite you to respond by saying we do, with God's help. -[2054.02 --> 2060.56] First, do you believe in Jesus as your Savior and Lord, and that in him alone is hope and freedom -[2060.56 --> 2061.54] from sin found? -[2061.54 --> 2067.06] Second, do you believe that the Bible is the word of God, revealing his plan of redemption -[2067.06 --> 2071.46] in Jesus Christ, and that the preaching and teaching of Langley and Emmanuel reflect this -[2071.46 --> 2071.84] truth? -[2072.78 --> 2077.84] And then third, do you promise, with the help of the Holy Spirit, to do all that you can -[2077.84 --> 2083.26] to strengthen your relationship to Jesus by being part of this church, recognizing its -[2083.26 --> 2089.40] oversight and authority, and joining with us on mission for Jesus in this community, this -[2089.40 --> 2090.62] city, and to the world? -[2090.62 --> 2092.74] Cole and Natasha, what is your answer? -[2093.18 --> 2094.48] We do, with God's help. -[2094.66 --> 2094.92] Amen. -[2095.40 --> 2097.42] Why don't we switch sides so we don't have to worry about him? -[2097.66 --> 2097.82] Yep. -[2100.26 --> 2101.78] Candles are always dangerous. -[2103.56 --> 2111.38] Part of our welcoming you into our fellowship is extending to you and through your faith to -[2111.38 --> 2115.86] Adrian the inclusion of God's covenant promises. -[2115.86 --> 2120.76] So this morning, we get to celebrate his baptism together. -[2121.76 --> 2128.54] The water, for us, is a sign and a seal of being cleansed from sin through Jesus' life, -[2128.90 --> 2129.98] death, and resurrection. -[2130.90 --> 2138.02] Though born with a sinful nature, this child, Adrian, is offered God's promise of forgiveness -[2138.02 --> 2139.50] and life in the Spirit. -[2139.50 --> 2146.50] We baptize infants not from superstition, but because they are covenant children. -[2147.00 --> 2152.18] We baptize infants as an extension of the history of the church from its very beginning. -[2153.62 --> 2161.88] God's covenant with Abraham was sealed by circumcision in Genesis 15 and now finds its sign in baptism -[2161.88 --> 2163.52] as we read in Colossians 2. -[2164.52 --> 2169.54] And through it, the triune God marks our adoption and identity in Christ, -[2169.90 --> 2174.16] a promise that is extended to our children as we read in Acts 2 verse 39, -[2174.58 --> 2176.36] because God calls them holy. -[2176.74 --> 2179.94] He calls them set apart as we read in 1 Corinthians 7. -[2181.10 --> 2183.38] And so baptism obeys Christ's command. -[2183.86 --> 2186.08] It aligns with the living traditions of the church -[2186.08 --> 2190.14] and it signifies inclusion into God's covenant community. -[2190.14 --> 2197.54] And today, we pray that Adrian embraces these promises and follows Jesus throughout his life. -[2198.10 --> 2201.72] So I have two more questions to ask you in regards to this, Cole and Natasha. -[2202.36 --> 2206.54] Again, I'll ask you the two questions and invite you to respond by saying we do with God's help. -[2207.84 --> 2213.20] Do you believe that your child, Adrian, as cute as he is, though sinful by nature, -[2213.68 --> 2218.40] is received by God in Christ as a member of his covenant and therefore ought to be baptized? -[2218.40 --> 2225.28] And two, do you promise, in reliance on the Holy Spirit and with the help of this Christian community, -[2225.76 --> 2229.34] to do all in your power to instruct Adrian in the Christian faith -[2229.34 --> 2233.50] and to lead him by your example into the life of Christian discipleship? -[2234.02 --> 2234.74] What is your answer? -[2235.30 --> 2236.68] We do with God's help. -[2236.86 --> 2237.18] Amen. -[2237.18 --> 2239.80] Our Lord Jesus said, -[2240.04 --> 2242.90] Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, -[2243.02 --> 2245.24] for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. -[2245.36 --> 2247.38] And so, as is our practice, -[2247.50 --> 2251.76] I want to invite all the little children and the young at heart to come forward, -[2251.88 --> 2254.24] come close, gather around here at the front. -[2254.34 --> 2258.04] Just find a seat on the floor right here so that you can see -[2258.04 --> 2264.76] and that you can be part of this sign and seal together. -[2264.76 --> 2266.18] Yeah, see them all? -[2275.22 --> 2277.74] Guys, in just a moment, we're going to take this water -[2277.74 --> 2281.76] and we're going to pour it over Adrian's head -[2281.76 --> 2289.26] as a picture for us, a living picture for us about what Jesus has promised, right? -[2289.26 --> 2293.92] That he would wash us and make us new and that he includes us in his family. -[2294.68 --> 2298.82] And so, many of you have also received this sign of baptism. -[2299.32 --> 2302.44] And if you haven't received this sign or if you don't remember it, talk to your parents. -[2303.20 --> 2306.78] And parents, if you haven't received it or if you haven't talked to your kids about it, talk to me. -[2307.24 --> 2309.70] I would love to talk to you about what that means for you. -[2311.24 --> 2315.40] We're going to baptize Adrian together this morning. -[2315.40 --> 2315.84] Are you ready? -[2316.98 --> 2317.30] Yeah? -[2317.64 --> 2318.00] All right. -[2318.72 --> 2320.04] Just lean him in here a bit. -[2323.16 --> 2327.76] Adrian, James, Paul, Berzenji. -[2328.02 --> 2329.70] I baptize you in the name of the Father, -[2330.88 --> 2332.02] in the name of the Son, -[2333.32 --> 2334.82] and in the name of the Holy Spirit. -[2336.10 --> 2336.38] Amen. -[2337.86 --> 2338.30] Amen. -[2338.30 --> 2338.36] Amen. -[2340.18 --> 2341.32] Just for his face there. -[2345.40 --> 2350.54] congregation of our Lord Jesus Christ, -[2350.70 --> 2353.10] church family gathered here today. -[2353.44 --> 2356.58] Not only do we hear promises from God in baptism -[2356.58 --> 2358.58] and promises from parents in baptism, -[2358.88 --> 2362.90] but we have an opportunity to hear promises from our shared family. -[2363.30 --> 2366.54] So I'm going to invite you, again, as you're able, where you are, to stand. -[2366.54 --> 2370.68] And I'm going to offer, read out a question for you, -[2370.92 --> 2373.08] at the end of which I invite you to respond, -[2373.22 --> 2376.12] together with one voice we do with God's help. -[2377.74 --> 2379.04] And so do you, -[2379.98 --> 2382.82] congregation of Emmanuel Christian Reformed Church, -[2382.94 --> 2385.32] representing the entire church of Jesus Christ, -[2385.68 --> 2386.54] gathered here today, -[2386.64 --> 2389.88] do you promise to love, encourage, and support -[2389.88 --> 2392.14] Cole, Natasha, and Adrian -[2392.14 --> 2394.88] by welcoming them into our church family, -[2395.36 --> 2398.60] by teaching him the gospel of God's love, -[2398.68 --> 2401.22] by being an example of Christian faith and character, -[2401.54 --> 2404.34] and by giving the strong support of God's family -[2404.34 --> 2407.22] in fellowship, in prayer, and in service? -[2407.40 --> 2408.44] What is your answer? -[2409.12 --> 2410.98] We do it for God's help. -[2411.38 --> 2411.86] Amen. -[2412.98 --> 2414.02] Please have a seat. -[2416.44 --> 2417.70] Let me stay here for a minute. -[2419.10 --> 2419.50] Adrian, -[2420.50 --> 2421.88] my brother, -[2422.14 --> 2423.74] the Lord bless you -[2423.74 --> 2425.02] and keep you. -[2425.60 --> 2427.62] The Lord make his face to shine upon you -[2427.62 --> 2429.02] and be gracious to you. -[2429.36 --> 2431.82] The Lord turn his face towards you -[2431.82 --> 2434.08] and give you his peace. -[2434.84 --> 2436.00] And in this way, -[2436.16 --> 2438.76] may the Lord put his name on Adrian -[2438.76 --> 2440.72] and make him his own. -[2441.30 --> 2441.52] Amen? -[2442.44 --> 2443.00] Amen. -[2443.78 --> 2445.10] May I take him for a minute? -[2446.32 --> 2447.24] Hey, my buddy. -[2448.24 --> 2448.76] Hi. -[2448.76 --> 2448.82] Hi. -[2450.44 --> 2451.46] You want to go for a walk? -[2452.14 --> 2455.02] This morning, -[2455.22 --> 2457.80] as we celebrate baptism together, -[2458.20 --> 2461.72] this is a living picture for us -[2461.72 --> 2464.70] of Adrian's journey of faith. -[2465.44 --> 2465.98] And so, -[2466.10 --> 2467.16] he joins us -[2467.16 --> 2470.36] and becomes part of our church family together, -[2470.74 --> 2472.64] wherein we hope and pray -[2472.64 --> 2475.02] that he will grow to know the Lord. -[2475.02 --> 2479.20] And that he will one day stand before us -[2479.20 --> 2480.02] and say, -[2480.18 --> 2480.92] this too, -[2481.14 --> 2481.92] I believe. -[2482.72 --> 2485.74] That this promise of God is real for him -[2485.74 --> 2487.56] and not just words we speak, -[2488.36 --> 2490.12] but that it defines reality. -[2491.48 --> 2494.70] And as he joins us in this blessed fellowship, -[2495.50 --> 2499.76] may you walk with him in this journey of life and faith. -[2499.76 --> 2505.34] May you know him as a spiritual son in the Lord, -[2506.10 --> 2508.38] because that is who he is to us. -[2508.60 --> 2508.84] Amen? -[2510.06 --> 2510.50] Amen. -[2511.78 --> 2512.72] Good work, buddy. -[2512.72 --> 2519.24] I want to invite Dick Klingelting to come to the front. -[2519.40 --> 2522.16] He is an elder in our church, -[2522.72 --> 2525.66] and you guys have been placed into his region, -[2525.84 --> 2526.56] his group, -[2526.70 --> 2531.20] and so he's got a little memento of today's celebration -[2531.20 --> 2532.80] and a little gift for Adrian, -[2532.94 --> 2534.24] a book that you can read with him, -[2534.54 --> 2537.48] as well as a new member booklet that we give to everyone. -[2537.48 --> 2538.48] Amen. -[2548.98 --> 2549.42] Amen. -[2549.62 --> 2550.64] Thank you guys so much. -[2550.90 --> 2551.94] Let's welcome them together. -[2553.20 --> 2563.40] We're going to sing a song together -[2563.40 --> 2565.80] that they have chosen for us -[2565.80 --> 2567.78] as a momentum of this occasion. -[2568.00 --> 2569.52] We're going to stand and we're going to sing -[2569.52 --> 2571.06] Be Thou My Vision. -[2571.32 --> 2572.84] Following our worship today, -[2573.04 --> 2575.24] especially even as we're celebrating with cake, -[2575.30 --> 2576.62] there's so many reasons to celebrate, -[2576.82 --> 2579.56] I encourage you to grab Cole and Natasha -[2579.56 --> 2581.36] to welcome them in the Lord -[2581.36 --> 2583.54] and to greet them in Jesus' name together. -[2583.74 --> 2584.98] Let's stand as we sing. -[2584.98 --> 2585.06] Amen. -[2595.80 --> 2613.20] Be Thou My Vision -[2613.20 --> 2618.20] O Lord of my heart -[2618.20 --> 2622.92] Not Thee all else to me -[2622.92 --> 2627.02] Save that Thou art -[2627.02 --> 2630.96] Thou my best thought -[2630.96 --> 2636.02] By day or by night -[2636.02 --> 2639.42] Waking or sleeping -[2639.42 --> 2645.34] Thy presence my light -[2645.34 --> 2655.10] Be Thou my wisdom -[2655.10 --> 2660.10] Thou my true heart -[2660.10 --> 2664.42] I ever with Thee -[2664.42 --> 2668.76] And Thou with me Lord -[2668.76 --> 2673.26] Thou my great Father -[2673.26 --> 2677.78] I Thy true Son -[2677.78 --> 2681.34] Thou in me dwelling -[2681.34 --> 2685.44] And I with Thee one -[2685.44 --> 2702.04] Riches I heed not, nor man's empty praise -[2702.04 --> 2710.58] Thou mine inheritance, now and always -[2710.58 --> 2719.32] Thou and Thou only, first in my heart -[2719.32 --> 2728.50] High King of Heaven, my treasure Thou art -[2728.50 --> 2742.54] High King of Heaven, my victory won -[2742.54 --> 2750.24] May I reach Heaven's joys, O bright Heaven's Son -[2750.24 --> 2758.98] Heart of my own heart, whatever befall -[2758.98 --> 2768.26] Still be my vision, O ruler of all -[2768.26 --> 2775.98] Heart of my own heart, whatever befall -[2775.98 --> 2785.98] Still be my vision, O ruler of all -[2785.98 --> 2803.30] Good morning again. -[2804.38 --> 2808.84] This morning we continue the giving of our gifts, our worship with the giving of our gifts, -[2809.24 --> 2813.06] first to the ministry and mission of our church through the budget, -[2813.06 --> 2817.72] and our special offering today is for World Renew Disaster Response. -[2818.70 --> 2823.22] When disasters strike, World Renew responds to the urgent needs that arise, -[2823.74 --> 2828.38] clearing up debris, assessing needs, providing emergency food, water and shelter, -[2828.94 --> 2832.98] training local leaders and repairing and rebuilding homes. -[2833.78 --> 2839.62] Communities around the world are impacted by natural disasters like floods, hurricanes and fires, -[2839.62 --> 2843.34] as well as conflict, war and violence. -[2844.10 --> 2847.20] These disasters cause serious disruption in communities, -[2847.60 --> 2849.96] especially when people's homes are severely damaged. -[2851.54 --> 2854.26] Recovery often takes months, even years. -[2855.04 --> 2858.68] These disasters not only have a tremendous impact on communities physically, -[2858.90 --> 2864.20] but they are likely to have drastic and long-lasting effects on the emotional and mental health of its members. -[2864.20 --> 2870.36] Giving financially is one way to support these efforts and is so needed and appreciated. -[2871.32 --> 2875.92] Another option is to volunteer time and energy at a disaster site. -[2875.92 --> 2880.74] I know some members of this congregation in years past have volunteered, -[2881.18 --> 2883.26] and the experience has been very impactful. -[2883.26 --> 2888.22] By supporting the work of World Renew and the Disaster Response Services, -[2888.22 --> 2892.52] you give new life to communities impacted by disaster. -[2892.52 --> 2919.00] Lord, I want to be a sacrifice. -[2919.00 --> 2927.16] Lord, I want to be pleasing to you. -[2927.16 --> 2936.24] Lord, I want your love to rule my life. -[2936.24 --> 2942.82] And be the one that you shine through. -[2942.82 --> 2950.82] Jesus, I give you hope. -[2950.82 --> 2958.82] Every part of me cries out your name. -[2958.82 --> 2966.82] Jesus, I give you hope. -[2966.82 --> 2996.80] Lord, I want your love to rule my life. -[2996.80 --> 3003.80] Lord, I want your love to rule my life. -[3003.80 --> 3011.80] And be the one that you shine through. -[3011.80 --> 3019.80] Jesus, I give you hope. -[3019.80 --> 3026.80] Every part of me cries out your name. -[3026.80 --> 3032.80] Jesus, I give you hope. -[3032.80 --> 3037.80] Jesus, I give you hope. -[3037.80 --> 3047.80] Living and holy, living and holy, living and holy, living and holy, living and holy for you. -[3047.80 --> 3052.80] Jesus, I give you hope. -[3052.80 --> 3059.80] Jesus, I give you hope. -[3059.80 --> 3061.80] Jesus, I give you hope. -[3061.80 --> 3063.80] Every part of me cries out your name. -[3063.80 --> 3065.80] Jesus, I give you hope. -[3065.80 --> 3067.80] Jesus, I give you hope. -[3067.80 --> 3071.80] Jesus, I give you hope. -[3071.80 --> 3087.08] Living and holy, living and holy, living and holy, living and holy for you. -[3087.08 --> 3102.14] All right, kids, come on down to the front. -[3102.38 --> 3103.50] We're going to have a little kids' corner. -[3103.54 --> 3104.92] Maybe not so close to the front. -[3104.98 --> 3106.44] I want to be able to see you still. -[3107.22 --> 3107.90] There we go. -[3107.98 --> 3108.56] There we go. -[3108.68 --> 3109.60] How's everybody doing? -[3110.46 --> 3111.52] We've got more coming. -[3111.62 --> 3115.20] All kids age three to grade four, you can come on down. -[3115.20 --> 3117.84] We still have a lot of kids here. -[3117.98 --> 3122.06] There's a few missing from Gems, but we have a lot of kids here. -[3122.08 --> 3122.96] How's everybody doing? -[3123.80 --> 3124.24] Good. -[3125.70 --> 3126.90] Are we missing someone? -[3127.70 --> 3128.82] We're missing Hank. -[3129.10 --> 3133.44] I think you guys all need to shout, come on out, Hank, and maybe he'll come. -[3133.82 --> 3134.80] One, two, three, go. -[3137.30 --> 3137.70] Whoa. -[3141.46 --> 3142.88] Hank, you were flying. -[3142.88 --> 3143.40] Wow. -[3144.16 --> 3145.40] What a rush. -[3146.10 --> 3148.52] It's so good to see you all. -[3148.76 --> 3149.64] How are you doing, Hank? -[3149.92 --> 3151.04] I'm great. -[3151.54 --> 3152.28] Wow, really? -[3152.64 --> 3154.86] Yeah, I had that best week ever. -[3155.32 --> 3156.44] What did you do, Hank? -[3156.80 --> 3162.40] I went to my Uncle Wrinkle's house, and I helped take care of his sheep. -[3162.66 --> 3163.08] Really? -[3163.32 --> 3164.72] Yeah, he's a sheepdog. -[3164.98 --> 3165.76] A sheepdog? -[3165.92 --> 3167.84] He looks like me, but he herds sheep. -[3168.20 --> 3169.84] Well, that's fun, and you got to help him out? -[3169.98 --> 3171.28] I've never done it before. -[3171.28 --> 3173.30] Well, what did he ask you to do? -[3173.56 --> 3176.58] He said, Hank, take care of the sheep. -[3177.10 --> 3177.76] That's fun. -[3178.12 --> 3182.06] Well, I thought he meant, like, take care of the sheep, and they look delicious. -[3182.06 --> 3185.00] So they kind of look like marshmallows. -[3185.28 --> 3190.58] But when I went out there and tried to take a bite, Hank, that's what Uncle Wrinkle said. -[3191.38 --> 3194.62] And then I learned, oh, I'm supposed to take care of the sheep. -[3194.94 --> 3195.86] So you know what I did? -[3196.04 --> 3196.86] What did you do, Hank? -[3197.12 --> 3198.94] I thought they might want breakfast. -[3199.50 --> 3203.70] So I cooked up a pound of bacon, and then I ate it. -[3203.70 --> 3208.32] And then I plucked up another pound of bacon, and I ate that one, too. -[3208.66 --> 3211.56] And then Uncle Wrinkle said, stop wasting the bacon. -[3211.70 --> 3215.44] So I plucked up one more pound, and I brought it out to the sheep. -[3215.76 --> 3216.74] And do you know what I learned? -[3218.10 --> 3219.64] Sheep don't eat bacon. -[3220.48 --> 3222.98] They're not a big fan of breakfast meats. -[3222.98 --> 3229.04] So I ate the pound of bacon, and then I learned that they like to eat grass. -[3229.34 --> 3234.36] So I helped lead them to some grass, and they ate, and they were so happy. -[3234.70 --> 3237.32] And then I just got to watch them, and it was the best weekend. -[3237.50 --> 3239.78] That's what taking care of sheep means. -[3240.12 --> 3241.48] That's what I learned anyways. -[3241.90 --> 3242.68] Well, that's fun. -[3242.90 --> 3245.14] Do you know what we're going to do in children's worship time today? -[3245.78 --> 3249.92] We're going to learn about what Jesus said to his disciples about taking care of sheep. -[3250.58 --> 3251.20] You have a question? -[3251.20 --> 3251.50] Yeah. -[3252.98 --> 3256.06] I don't know why Hank talks silly. -[3256.16 --> 3257.30] Hank, why do you talk silly? -[3257.42 --> 3258.42] I don't really know. -[3258.70 --> 3263.24] This was the voice that was chosen for me on a whim, and I kind of regret it. -[3263.46 --> 3265.38] But it's what we're stuck with now. -[3266.18 --> 3267.06] That's kind of why. -[3267.26 --> 3267.62] Yeah. -[3268.60 --> 3269.10] All right. -[3269.28 --> 3272.72] So we're going to go to children's worship time, and you can ask me questions there, okay? -[3272.86 --> 3275.32] And then we'll talk more about what it means to take care of sheep. -[3275.36 --> 3277.36] But we're going to pray, and then we're going to do the Lord's blessing, okay? -[3277.58 --> 3278.20] Sounds good. -[3278.30 --> 3278.54] All right. -[3278.56 --> 3278.92] Let's pray. -[3278.92 --> 3280.26] Let's bow our heads and close our eyes. -[3281.14 --> 3282.62] Dear God, thank you so much for this day. -[3282.62 --> 3286.06] Thank you that we could be here in church today and learn more about what it means to -[3286.06 --> 3286.60] follow you. -[3286.76 --> 3290.50] And as we go off to children's worship time and the grown-ups stay back here, God, we -[3290.50 --> 3294.64] will all learn more about the word and what it means to be a disciple of Christ. -[3294.84 --> 3296.34] We pray this all in your name. -[3296.80 --> 3297.16] Amen. -[3297.76 --> 3298.00] All right. -[3298.02 --> 3298.66] Let's stand up. -[3298.66 --> 3301.88] We're going to do the children's blessing together, okay? -[3301.92 --> 3304.24] We're going to say, the Lord be with you at the same time. -[3304.32 --> 3305.16] Boys, not too fast. -[3306.30 --> 3306.62] Ready? -[3307.26 --> 3308.28] One, two, three. -[3308.28 --> 3332.50] Good morning. -[3332.50 --> 3336.50] My name is Ken, and I'm an elder here at Emanuel Church. -[3336.50 --> 3340.34] And this morning, I will be leading us into our church family prayer. -[3340.68 --> 3345.86] So let's turn our hearts to the Lord and reach out to him together. -[3346.64 --> 3347.44] Let's pray. -[3347.44 --> 3353.88] Our Father in heaven, holy, holy are you, Lord God Almighty. -[3354.76 --> 3358.72] Worthy is the Lamb to receive all glory, honor, and praise. -[3359.40 --> 3364.48] We are grateful, Lord, that you are always present, always loving, and always caring. -[3364.96 --> 3369.28] And we humbly approach your throne of grace with confidence this morning, Lord Jesus. -[3369.28 --> 3399.26] Lord, we confess. -[3399.28 --> 3404.02] That there are so many times when we try to take control of our lives and stop trusting you. -[3404.76 --> 3410.10] And there are times, Lord, where we try to replace faith with logic and our limited understanding. -[3410.92 --> 3414.12] Correct our vision, Lord, and help us fix our eyes on Jesus. -[3415.42 --> 3417.32] For now we know and see in part. -[3418.02 --> 3421.64] But when completeness comes, we will come to fully know your works, Lord. -[3422.44 --> 3428.10] We trust that our lack of understanding today does not change that you are at work in all things. -[3428.10 --> 3430.78] And so we lift up all things to you today, Lord. -[3430.98 --> 3432.40] Our joys and our sorrows. -[3432.84 --> 3437.20] Our celebrations and our pains within our church, our families, and our communities. -[3438.36 --> 3443.64] Lord, we don't understand when health fails in our loved ones. -[3444.14 --> 3445.88] But we put our hope and trust in you. -[3446.72 --> 3452.70] Lord, we lift up the Skipper family in this time of grief and loss with the passing of Matthew's wife, Rachel. -[3452.70 --> 3456.30] Lord, she has struggled and suffered for so long. -[3456.64 --> 3461.34] And we are thankful that she is with you with no more pain but basking in your glory. -[3462.06 --> 3469.92] But, Lord, we still grieve deeply for the many years of failing health and for the loss of a wife, a mother, a daughter, and a friend. -[3469.92 --> 3477.58] Lord, please be near to Matt and the kids, to John and Fran, Dave and Sheila, and to all the other family and friends who are in mourning. -[3479.10 --> 3486.14] And, Lord, we lift up Tanya Tessemaker and her family as the cancer in her body has advanced and she is receiving hospice-level care now. -[3487.08 --> 3491.30] Lord, give her comfort and peace in the knowledge that you are with her always. -[3491.30 --> 3496.68] Lord, we lift up all those dealing with cancer, including Tessa and Doug. -[3497.44 --> 3507.48] And, Lord, we pray for Clary's sister, Joan, and her family as she deals with fatigue and effects of a round of radiation treatment and waits to see whether it was effective. -[3509.02 --> 3515.50] Lord, we don't understand when tragic events happen in our world and we see devastating pain and heartbreak. -[3516.06 --> 3520.80] Lord, we think of the horrific events this week at the Lapu-Lapu Day Festival in Vancouver. -[3521.30 --> 3523.76] So many lives were lost and changed forever. -[3524.56 --> 3527.62] And, God, we pray for those affected and touched by this tragedy. -[3528.10 --> 3534.48] And we ask for your nearness to the Filipino community as they rally together in shock, mourning, and in grief. -[3536.00 --> 3539.32] Lord, we also lift up our joys and celebrations to you. -[3539.98 --> 3545.12] Despite our sinful nature, you shower us with grace and blessings beyond our understanding. -[3545.48 --> 3547.18] And we are thankful to you, Lord. -[3547.18 --> 3551.52] Lord, we praise you with Eli and Emily Alexander who were married here yesterday. -[3552.18 --> 3554.06] What a blessing you have poured out on them. -[3554.82 --> 3564.18] Lord, we pray that their marriage will be centered in you in times when the direction you are leading them is obvious and in times that are hard to understand. -[3564.18 --> 3573.90] Lord, we pray for all of our marriages that they would be an image of Christ's sacrificial love for the church and the church fully serving Christ. -[3574.64 --> 3580.10] Lord, as we see John and Elsa celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary, what an amazing gift. -[3580.64 --> 3585.92] And, Lord, we praise you for their long marriage and for all the blessing you have poured out on them. -[3585.92 --> 3591.84] And each of the members of our church who have had marriages that have lasted decades and decades. -[3592.86 --> 3599.58] Lord, we're joyful to celebrate the new members, Cole and Natasha, as they have joined our church family. -[3599.86 --> 3602.98] And Adrian, as he was baptized as one of your covenant children. -[3603.74 --> 3607.90] Your promises never fail, Lord, and we stand in awe and celebrate together. -[3607.90 --> 3612.74] And, Lord, we thank you that the Gems have been having a great time at camp. -[3613.08 --> 3616.62] And we pray that you be with them as they worship together in Maple Ridge this morning. -[3617.22 --> 3622.82] And, Lord, as they're getting to share and grow in knowledge and faith in you in new ways, work in their hearts. -[3623.46 --> 3632.34] As the Gems camp is wrapping up and the girls and leaders head home, we pray for their safe return and that you would continue to work and grow in each of their lives. -[3633.40 --> 3637.40] Lord, we lift up Emmanuel Church, its ministries, and the church leaders. -[3637.90 --> 3640.82] We pray for your leading as new elders and deacons are called. -[3641.60 --> 3647.46] Lord, we ask that you work through the process to draw out individuals that you are calling to serve in this capacity. -[3648.02 --> 3652.58] And we pray that you place your guiding hand on the council meeting happening this week. -[3653.96 --> 3657.18] We pray, God, for our country and our government leaders. -[3657.46 --> 3664.18] As we have elected a new federal government, Lord, we acknowledge that all authority in heaven and on earth comes from you alone. -[3664.18 --> 3670.00] Lord, please work through our government and leaders at all levels to bring forth your kingdom. -[3670.74 --> 3677.32] And, Lord, just as we sang, we want to be a sacrifice, pleasing to you, living and holy for you. -[3677.98 --> 3679.64] Help us live for you alone. -[3680.22 --> 3685.52] In our lack of understanding of so many things, Lord, we have certainty in you, Lord Jesus, -[3685.90 --> 3690.76] with faith that allows us to be sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. -[3690.76 --> 3692.06] Thank you, Jesus. -[3692.48 --> 3693.34] In your name we pray. -[3693.70 --> 3693.98] Amen. -[3693.98 --> 3694.10] Amen. -[3694.10 --> 3694.12] Amen. -[3694.12 --> 3694.14] Amen. -[3694.14 --> 3694.58] Amen. -[3694.58 --> 3694.64] Amen. -[3694.64 --> 3695.14] Amen. -[3695.14 --> 3696.14] Amen. -[3696.14 --> 3700.52] Amen. -[3700.52 --> 3701.32] Amen. -[3701.32 --> 3701.52] Amen. -[3701.52 --> 3702.48] Amen. -[3702.48 --> 3726.12] I just say before we continue here, it is, at least to my heart and to my soul, so good, -[3726.12 --> 3734.30] to be with you in worship this week and to gather again. I don't know what your past week has been -[3734.30 --> 3739.34] like and the kinds of things that are happening in your life, in your heart, in your minds, and -[3739.34 --> 3748.20] around you, but there just seems to me those times and those circumstances, those events in our lives -[3748.20 --> 3755.76] that just weigh down, that feel a little heavier, that are sometimes a little bit more difficult to -[3755.76 --> 3761.84] carry, and there are some times in our lives where we're just not sure what's going on or why it's -[3761.84 --> 3768.88] happening, and it's in both of those moments where I think it's good to gather together, right? There -[3768.88 --> 3774.92] are times in our lives where tragedy strikes and we cry out to God and we just don't know how to hold -[3774.92 --> 3780.02] the weight of it, and that's a reason to gather. There are times in our lives where we've got more -[3780.02 --> 3785.26] celebrations going on around us than we can manage in our times and in our schedules, and we're singing -[3785.26 --> 3795.12] for joy, and that's a reason to gather. And so whatever it is for you this week, and as it has -[3795.12 --> 3805.02] been for me, a week of chaos and confusion, it's so good to gather and to once again center our hearts -[3805.02 --> 3811.88] and our minds on the Lord Jesus and to once again open his word and to hear his voice to our hearts. -[3811.88 --> 3817.44] And so that's what we're going to do for the next little while together. Open the word of God, hear his -[3817.44 --> 3826.38] voice to our hearts for encouragement and for celebration, for sustaining power, and for his very -[3826.38 --> 3835.94] presence among us. I'm going to read from 1 Thessalonians 5. We, for a while now, have been working our way -[3835.94 --> 3842.52] through the books of Thessalonians for Easter and for gems. We've kind of taken a pause, but we're now -[3842.52 --> 3851.68] returning to the last few verses of 1 Thessalonians 5. I'm going to read verses 23 through 28. The first -[3851.68 --> 3856.86] time through, it will be on the screen behind me, but we will refer back, and so I encourage you, if you -[3856.86 --> 3861.82] have a Bible, to open it up, or if you have one on your phone, to look up the text and keep it there. -[3861.82 --> 3866.02] If you'd like a Bible, there's some available at the back. You can grab one from the back. -[3867.32 --> 3871.62] If you don't have a Bible, and if you don't have a Bible at home, grab one from the back and take -[3871.62 --> 3877.04] it home. We would love to bless you with that. But let's open God's word and read together. -[3877.04 --> 3890.54] May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, -[3890.94 --> 3898.58] soul, and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is -[3898.58 --> 3909.44] faithful, and he will do it. Brothers and sisters, pray for us. Greet all God's people with a holy kiss. -[3910.12 --> 3915.18] I charge you before the Lord to have this letter read to all the brothers and sisters. -[3916.16 --> 3921.76] The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. This is the word of the Lord. -[3921.76 --> 3936.28] Into moments like these, and that is inclusive of everything that you bring into worship today. -[3936.42 --> 3949.12] Into moments like these, God speaks to us through his word. And the theme or the big idea for this -[3949.12 --> 3957.60] morning that comes out of this scripture text is the blessing of God as the promise of God to bring -[3957.60 --> 3962.58] you closer to God. Although at least that's what it was when I was preparing for this, and I realized -[3962.58 --> 3969.86] just how convoluted that sounds, and how difficult that is to understand. And so instead, really simply, -[3970.20 --> 3978.92] God does what he says he will do. And God says he will carry you through. God does what he says he -[3978.92 --> 3988.24] will do, and he says that he will carry you through. At the end of this first letter to the church in -[3988.24 --> 3998.38] Thessalonica, Paul closes with a prayer. Now throughout this whole letter, his desire has been to encourage -[3998.38 --> 4004.86] these faithful Christians in the face of their own struggles and hardships with faith, to encourage -[4004.86 --> 4011.14] them in the face of opposition from the governing authorities in Thessalonica, to encourage them to -[4011.14 --> 4016.72] grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, to grow in their faith and to -[4016.72 --> 4026.92] become more like Jesus, in living in more and more in ever-increasing obedience to his call on their life -[4026.92 --> 4032.92] because of their new faith. And the word that we have learned and that we have used, because Paul -[4032.92 --> 4041.04] has been using it, the word for that is sanctification. And to be sanctified means to be set apart for God's -[4041.04 --> 4048.10] purposes. It means to live as one set apart, to grow in our looking like disciples of Jesus. -[4048.10 --> 4059.38] That's all it is, to grow, to look more like Jesus. And Paul prays now that that growth would continue -[4059.38 --> 4068.84] in them right through to the end. And in fact, this prayer is a sort of guarantee of God's promise to be -[4068.84 --> 4074.78] present and part of shaping you so that you make it to the end. We read, -[4074.78 --> 4081.42] May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. We're talking about God -[4081.42 --> 4088.92] here, God himself. And God has revealed himself to us as a Father through the Son by the work of the -[4088.92 --> 4097.10] Holy Spirit. And God has sanctified you and will make it go through and through. That's his promise to us. -[4097.10 --> 4110.38] God does what he says he will do. And through and through just means all of your life, into every -[4110.38 --> 4117.10] aspect of your being. There's no part of you that isn't transformed by God's grace. -[4117.10 --> 4126.68] We don't get to hold things back, even though we try. We try to hold things back from God. We try to -[4126.68 --> 4132.86] hang on to a little piece of our former selves. We pretend that we have a measure of control -[4132.86 --> 4139.44] and that we can keep that secret. But the truth of the gospel, the truth of his transformation, -[4139.44 --> 4149.08] right, is that it's all of me for all of him. And in that way, sanctification, looking more like Jesus, -[4149.62 --> 4158.66] starts with submission. Now, I've said this before. I think it's helpful for us. Part of what it means -[4158.66 --> 4168.36] to be Christian is to trust God more than you trust yourself. It means to submit to God's will in place -[4168.36 --> 4175.26] of your will. Deeper yet, it means to have your will transformed, your heart transformed, so that -[4175.26 --> 4183.36] your desires become God's desires, so that you love what God loves. Part of being Christian is a -[4183.36 --> 4194.66] continual submission of your life to who God is. And to be completely honest with you, that's not easy. -[4194.66 --> 4202.92] Jesus promised us, in this world you will have trouble. We read, anyone who desires to live a -[4202.92 --> 4209.50] godly life in Christ will be persecuted. Being a Christian, one of the word pairings we get in the -[4209.50 --> 4213.98] New Testament, that being a Christian will make you strangers and aliens in the world. -[4213.98 --> 4227.68] It's hard. And it's harder the more you grow. But there's good news. Because even though it's hard, -[4228.72 --> 4239.28] it is good. It is good. It is so good. There is nothing that compares to the love of God, -[4239.28 --> 4244.50] your father. There's nothing that compares to being known by the person of God. There's nothing -[4244.50 --> 4253.68] that matches being a lavishly loved child of the Father. We read, I have made you and I will carry you, -[4253.78 --> 4260.74] I will sustain you, and I will rescue you. There is nothing that can separate you from the love of God -[4260.74 --> 4268.94] that is available in Christ Jesus our Lord. Again, do not fear, for I have redeemed you, God says. I have -[4268.94 --> 4277.68] summoned you by name. You are mine. This is such a good identity for us. -[4279.02 --> 4286.98] Better than whatever else the world might offer. And in fact, the world is going to try to subtly force an identity -[4286.98 --> 4293.46] on you. And I want you to hear that intentionally. Subtly force. Those sound like oxymoronic word pairs, -[4293.56 --> 4299.02] but they're not. Because it's a forceful thing that happens without most of us even realizing it. -[4300.10 --> 4305.86] It's not something we choose, but it's something we live out of. And the world is going to subtly force -[4305.86 --> 4312.28] an identity on you. It's going to want to shape you in a particular way. And sin and the flesh and the devil -[4312.28 --> 4318.70] are all going to want you to think a certain way about what it means to be you. A certain way about -[4318.70 --> 4325.02] what it means to live in this world. And it can be so easy for us to move down that road. -[4326.44 --> 4332.38] But what I hope we can hear and see, I hope our hearts begin to glimpse that the identity that is -[4332.38 --> 4342.82] bestowed on you by God is better by far. It is fixed in you by his grace, and he will hold you fast. -[4343.76 --> 4350.36] This is the identity that is imaged for us in baptism this morning. This is the identity that -[4350.36 --> 4358.00] is signed and sealed in the means of grace. And with that, we pray that your whole spirit, -[4358.00 --> 4369.44] soul, and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Again, notice who's working in -[4369.44 --> 4378.40] this text. Notice who's doing this work, who the actor is, right? May your whole spirit, soul, and body -[4378.40 --> 4387.82] be kept blameless. God is doing the keeping. God is the subject. He is the agent of the first -[4387.82 --> 4393.42] line of this prayer, and he's the subject or the agent of the second line of this prayer. And you -[4393.42 --> 4401.66] are the recipient of his keeping. And again, in that phrase, spirit, soul, and body, it's just another -[4401.66 --> 4410.76] way of saying your whole selves, all of you for all of him. This is God's promise to you. It's about the -[4410.76 --> 4417.04] whole process from beginning to end, from the moment of your salvation to the fulfillment of your -[4417.04 --> 4424.30] salvation at the return of Jesus Christ. Our whole lives, in fact, are oriented, are directed, are lived, -[4424.56 --> 4433.06] facing forward to his future return. The God of peace has reoriented your life towards his goals -[4433.06 --> 4440.72] and his purposes. We live faces fixed on the future return of Christ, and when our faces are fixed on -[4440.72 --> 4449.44] the future return of Christ, we're called to live in line with that fixation. Based on the work of God, -[4450.32 --> 4458.66] this prayer, then, is a call to comprehensive Christian living. It's a call to live drawing -[4458.66 --> 4465.54] closer and closer and closer to God in faith and in faithfulness, in trust and in obedience. -[4469.14 --> 4469.70] Sometimes, -[4470.26 --> 4480.12] sometimes we feel stuck in our faith, right? And when we feel stuck in our faith, it's really easy to give up. -[4480.12 --> 4488.36] Sometimes we feel like we just can't experience God in the way that we want to, and so we become apathetic. -[4491.72 --> 4498.48] Sometimes we think, I'm not really getting anything out of it, and so I'm not going to put anything into it. -[4500.24 --> 4506.72] And to be candid, sometimes we just get lazy with our faith. I'm guilty of that. -[4506.72 --> 4515.58] Can I confess that with you this morning? I'm guilty of being lazy with my faith. -[4517.48 --> 4524.54] But this prayer of Paul is not just for the church in Thessalonica. It's a prayer of Paul for you and for me. -[4525.34 --> 4532.26] This is a call to push through and to press in. This is a call to persevere in faith because we're being preserved in faith. -[4532.26 --> 4540.28] This is a call to remember our identities in Christ Jesus, sanctified through and through. -[4540.38 --> 4545.28] This is a call to actually trust God more than I trust myself. -[4546.28 --> 4549.68] To really believe that He is good, -[4550.68 --> 4553.78] and that in Him is the true, the good, and the beautiful. -[4553.92 --> 4557.94] That in Him is the truest, and the best, and the most beautiful. -[4557.94 --> 4562.54] And in this is also a promise. -[4564.20 --> 4566.18] Right? God does what He says He will do. -[4567.20 --> 4569.14] And He will carry you through. -[4570.68 --> 4571.98] What did we read? We read, -[4572.78 --> 4578.08] The one who calls you is faithful, and He will do it. -[4579.36 --> 4581.98] This is like an amen in prayer. -[4581.98 --> 4589.16] Some of you are new to faith and are new to taking faith seriously, -[4589.40 --> 4590.72] and so you're learning how to pray. -[4591.06 --> 4595.46] One of the first things we learn when we pray is that prayers end by saying, -[4595.70 --> 4598.24] In Jesus' name, amen. -[4598.66 --> 4599.28] Very good. -[4600.00 --> 4600.98] Some of you know how to pray. -[4601.90 --> 4603.42] But honestly, that's all it takes. -[4603.86 --> 4605.38] That's all it takes to know how to pray. -[4605.54 --> 4606.76] In Jesus' name, amen. -[4606.76 --> 4613.78] This line, the one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it, is an amen. -[4614.38 --> 4617.52] The word amen simply means, let it be so. -[4618.38 --> 4621.64] Amen means, I believe you are faithful, and you will do it. -[4622.68 --> 4624.68] So when you pray amen, you're saying, -[4624.80 --> 4626.96] God, I know you can do this. -[4627.80 --> 4630.08] And so I trust you to do it. -[4631.24 --> 4632.32] Paul prays, -[4632.32 --> 4635.78] May the God of peace then sanctify you through and through. -[4635.78 --> 4637.28] That is, may he make you holy. -[4637.40 --> 4639.44] May he set you apart in everything. -[4639.96 --> 4643.18] And may he carry you through to the end, to the fulfillment, -[4643.34 --> 4648.22] so that in him, in everything, and in every way, you are set apart. -[4648.56 --> 4650.64] You are holy in his name. -[4650.90 --> 4651.64] And then he prays, -[4651.70 --> 4655.00] May your whole spirit, soul, and body be kept blameless. -[4655.10 --> 4655.68] And then again, that is, -[4656.02 --> 4661.58] May all of you, every thought, every imagination, every love, every desire, -[4661.58 --> 4668.14] every will, every action, and every reaction, be blameless, and holy, and pure. -[4669.60 --> 4670.64] And he prays, -[4671.16 --> 4674.72] The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it. -[4676.00 --> 4678.38] Again, notice the language carefully. -[4678.52 --> 4678.72] It says, -[4678.88 --> 4680.82] The one who calls you, right? -[4681.04 --> 4684.08] It is a present, ongoing reality. -[4685.08 --> 4685.64] It doesn't say, -[4685.64 --> 4686.94] The one who called you, -[4687.34 --> 4687.56] It says, -[4687.62 --> 4688.90] The one who calls you. -[4689.30 --> 4691.60] He continues to call. -[4691.70 --> 4693.12] He didn't call you and then say, -[4693.22 --> 4694.16] Go figure it out. -[4695.22 --> 4695.44] Right? -[4695.48 --> 4697.24] He didn't show you the way and then say, -[4697.34 --> 4698.82] Now walk in it and then just leave. -[4700.00 --> 4700.20] Right? -[4700.22 --> 4701.12] He's calling you. -[4701.20 --> 4704.14] He's actively walking with you. -[4704.52 --> 4705.58] He's calling you. -[4705.68 --> 4709.80] He's actively walking alongside and in you by his spirit. -[4709.80 --> 4713.78] He's calling you and he carries you through. -[4714.44 --> 4716.98] He calls and he walks with you. -[4717.06 --> 4718.26] That's sanctifying. -[4719.26 --> 4721.80] That's the whole self, blameless living. -[4722.70 --> 4722.80] Right? -[4722.82 --> 4724.36] He doesn't just show you the way. -[4724.72 --> 4727.36] He walks in it with you and through you. -[4728.32 --> 4731.32] And this truth is written all over the pages of Scripture. -[4734.08 --> 4735.18] In Philippians, -[4735.18 --> 4743.08] In Corinthians, we read, -[4743.48 --> 4746.18] He will also keep you firm to the end -[4746.18 --> 4749.40] so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. -[4750.62 --> 4750.76] Right? -[4750.86 --> 4752.04] God will do it. -[4752.80 --> 4756.26] And he invites you to do it with him, -[4756.42 --> 4758.38] to cooperate with the Holy Spirit. -[4759.02 --> 4759.90] In Hebrews 13, -[4759.90 --> 4765.10] Now may the God of peace equip you with everything good for doing his will. -[4765.74 --> 4768.52] He equips you with everything good for doing his will, -[4768.72 --> 4770.56] and then he invites you to go do it. -[4771.80 --> 4772.08] Right? -[4772.12 --> 4773.98] Another place that we can look to, -[4774.10 --> 4774.80] Philippians 2. -[4774.90 --> 4775.90] This is one of my favorite. -[4776.42 --> 4776.92] Paul writes, -[4777.06 --> 4778.50] Therefore, my dear friends, -[4778.80 --> 4782.98] continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. -[4783.66 --> 4783.84] Right? -[4783.90 --> 4785.18] Work it out continually. -[4785.64 --> 4787.42] Do it and keep doing it. -[4787.76 --> 4791.44] For it is God who works in you to will and to act -[4791.44 --> 4795.02] in order to fulfill his good purposes. -[4795.18 --> 4797.36] Here's the thing. -[4798.26 --> 4799.46] Here's what all that means. -[4800.06 --> 4800.16] Right? -[4800.30 --> 4802.12] God's promise is a guarantee. -[4802.82 --> 4805.24] And God's promise is an invitation. -[4806.88 --> 4808.70] God does what he says he will do, -[4808.80 --> 4811.62] and he says he will carry you through. -[4812.72 --> 4816.58] And the life of one being carried looks a particular way. -[4816.58 --> 4820.12] I want to illustrate this idea with you, -[4820.16 --> 4822.84] and I'm going to use an image borrowed from Michael Horton. -[4824.22 --> 4828.42] Sometimes we think of the Christian life like a raft. -[4828.42 --> 4828.86] Right? -[4830.06 --> 4835.00] Where we just float along in the ocean of life. -[4835.96 --> 4837.96] We go along with the current, -[4838.36 --> 4843.82] hoping that God does everything without any real participation on our part. -[4844.70 --> 4845.22] Right? -[4845.28 --> 4847.80] And this is a passive approach. -[4847.80 --> 4852.86] It very easily and possibly becomes an apathetic approach. -[4853.68 --> 4855.26] Some people have called this, -[4855.62 --> 4857.60] the reality of this for the Christian person, -[4857.82 --> 4859.56] the idea of being frozen chosen. -[4860.38 --> 4860.60] Right? -[4860.60 --> 4862.22] That God has selected you, -[4862.26 --> 4863.48] and now you just sit back and wait. -[4864.48 --> 4865.44] You're stuck right there. -[4865.98 --> 4868.48] Kevin calls this covenant child syndrome. -[4869.68 --> 4870.16] Right? -[4870.20 --> 4873.66] And it's the wrong idea that because of God's election and providence, -[4873.76 --> 4876.64] I don't have to cooperate with his spirit to live a transformed life. -[4877.12 --> 4877.34] Right? -[4877.36 --> 4878.68] I don't have to live a certain way. -[4878.86 --> 4880.32] I don't have to join him on mission. -[4880.62 --> 4881.88] I'm just along for this ride, -[4881.96 --> 4882.82] whatever it looks like. -[4884.68 --> 4885.68] That's the wrong idea. -[4886.38 --> 4889.52] There's another wrong idea that's maybe more common to some of us here. -[4889.98 --> 4892.64] Sometimes we think of this relationship, -[4892.64 --> 4895.52] this idea like a canoe or like a rowboat. -[4896.38 --> 4896.74] Right? -[4896.82 --> 4899.76] Where it's all your effort to paddle the boat. -[4900.78 --> 4904.04] And we know that rowing hard takes strength and discipline, -[4904.42 --> 4906.18] and if you're with people, a lot of yelling. -[4908.46 --> 4909.86] And this is legalism. -[4910.80 --> 4911.00] Right? -[4911.04 --> 4911.90] This is moralism. -[4912.32 --> 4913.86] This is the wrong idea that, -[4913.98 --> 4916.14] yeah, sure, grace gets me in, -[4916.30 --> 4919.24] but it's my effort that keeps me on the straight and narrow. -[4921.12 --> 4922.24] This one is heavy. -[4922.78 --> 4923.94] This one is hard. -[4924.94 --> 4928.40] And this one burdens our souls with a new yoke of slavery. -[4929.26 --> 4929.36] Right? -[4929.36 --> 4933.80] This is the one where we end up pretending that we have it all together on the outside -[4933.80 --> 4937.98] because if I were to ever reveal the truth of what's going on in my heart to you, -[4938.10 --> 4941.98] I'd be terrified that you would reject me because I'm not perfect like I pretend to be. -[4941.98 --> 4946.50] If people knew how I really struggled with sin, -[4947.14 --> 4949.46] they wouldn't think I'm Christian anymore. -[4950.60 --> 4951.04] Right? -[4951.06 --> 4953.18] That's down the line of this way of thinking. -[4953.18 --> 4960.52] Instead, a more faithful way to think about this is like a sailboat. -[4961.92 --> 4962.48] Right? -[4962.56 --> 4964.02] We hoist the sails. -[4964.60 --> 4966.00] That's our active involvement. -[4966.42 --> 4969.22] And our active involvement is the means of grace. -[4969.44 --> 4969.60] Right? -[4969.64 --> 4971.52] It is submitting to the preached word. -[4971.64 --> 4974.82] It is participating in the Lord's Supper and receiving baptism. -[4974.82 --> 4982.42] Our involvement in hoisting the sails is the means of grace and obedience and prayer and worship and service. -[4982.64 --> 4987.72] We hoist these sails, but it is the wind of the Holy Spirit that propels us forward. -[4989.10 --> 4989.58] Right? -[4989.62 --> 4994.28] It's the power of the Holy Spirit that moves us in the direction God is calling us to. -[4994.28 --> 4997.02] That carries us towards the goal. -[4997.38 --> 4997.46] Right? -[4997.50 --> 5000.94] That carries us heavenward and the prize for which we have been saved. -[5001.28 --> 5001.48] Right? -[5001.52 --> 5005.58] That draws us to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. -[5007.00 --> 5015.72] Hoist the sail and let the Spirit blow and take you in the path and journey of sanctification. -[5015.88 --> 5019.86] The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it. -[5020.42 --> 5023.74] God does what he says he will do and he will carry you through. -[5023.74 --> 5026.00] So hoist the sails of your obedience. -[5026.44 --> 5028.74] Hoist the sails of worship and word. -[5028.94 --> 5031.62] Hoist the sails of prayer and devotion. -[5031.92 --> 5034.50] Hoist the sails of service and mission. -[5034.90 --> 5037.06] And the Spirit of God will lead you. -[5037.14 --> 5039.94] The power of God will propel you forward. -[5040.12 --> 5043.18] Because that is what God has said he will do. -[5045.08 --> 5050.54] If you ever doubt what God says he will do and that he does it, look to the cross. -[5052.46 --> 5053.56] Look to the cross. -[5053.56 --> 5061.82] Because way back in the very beginning, God promised that I will send one who will crush the head of the serpent. -[5062.82 --> 5069.90] And over and over and over again as God told the story to his people and reminded them of who he is, -[5069.94 --> 5072.64] of what it means to be their God and for them to be his people, -[5072.86 --> 5076.78] God said, I will send one who will save you. -[5076.78 --> 5083.76] I will send one who will keep perfectly the law and the commandments and all of the things that I have told you to do. -[5083.92 --> 5086.34] And you prove day in and day out that you cannot. -[5086.62 --> 5088.34] I will do it. -[5088.34 --> 5094.48] And so Jesus came and live the life we should have lived. -[5095.06 --> 5098.12] Jesus came and he died the death that we deserve. -[5098.12 --> 5103.26] Jesus came and even though he was innocent, even though he died on that cross, -[5103.26 --> 5107.74] he was raised three days later victorious over sin and death. -[5108.74 --> 5114.10] He was raised having granted now for you newness of life. -[5114.96 --> 5119.22] So that if you're united with him in his death, you can be united with him in his life. -[5119.22 --> 5121.20] This is God's promise. -[5121.56 --> 5123.76] He is faithful and he will do it. -[5123.80 --> 5124.48] And how do we know? -[5125.22 --> 5126.50] Because he did it. -[5127.44 --> 5128.20] It's done. -[5128.74 --> 5129.76] It's finished. -[5131.18 --> 5134.96] This is your reality now. -[5135.52 --> 5139.72] And by grace, through faith, it becomes your identity. -[5141.16 --> 5141.68] Right? -[5141.72 --> 5147.74] That you are not your own, but that you belong body and soul and life and in death to your faithful Savior, Jesus Christ. -[5147.74 --> 5153.26] That he has set you free from the tyranny of the devil. -[5154.24 --> 5160.60] And that now you are a lavishly loved child of the Father. -[5161.42 --> 5163.18] This is who you are. -[5164.76 --> 5169.82] And this, for us, is a promise and an invitation. -[5171.08 --> 5172.20] A promise. -[5172.70 --> 5175.02] This is true and an invitation. -[5175.02 --> 5177.68] And so let's live like it is true. -[5178.64 --> 5187.88] And then lastly, and very quickly, part of the promise and part of the invitation is that you are not alone. -[5188.90 --> 5189.00] Right? -[5189.06 --> 5190.50] Notice how Paul ends. -[5190.66 --> 5193.56] He says, brothers and sisters, pray for us. -[5195.30 --> 5199.48] He says, family of God, pray for one another. -[5200.04 --> 5204.12] Pray for those who are journeying in faith, who are declaring the gospel. -[5204.12 --> 5207.08] Pray for those who are having lives transformed. -[5207.28 --> 5216.84] Pray for those who are moving from chaos to chaos and cannot understand how and why it is that God is allowing happen to happen in this life and in this moment. -[5217.02 --> 5218.70] But we pray for them. -[5219.08 --> 5222.96] Brothers and sisters, God has given you a new family. -[5223.50 --> 5226.46] This is part of our new identity. -[5226.46 --> 5232.16] And that family functions a particular way. -[5232.60 --> 5237.22] Now, bear with me, because I'm going to explain it after I read it, but I don't want you to jump to conclusions. -[5237.80 --> 5239.66] Greet all God's people with a holy kiss. -[5239.66 --> 5245.74] So don't turn to each other and start kissing unless you're married and it's appropriate and your kids aren't too close. -[5248.24 --> 5254.04] Our family is redefined by God's grace. -[5254.04 --> 5265.30] And this mark of a holy kiss, this handshake and the peace of Christ be with you, this head nod and the Lord be with you and also with you, -[5265.52 --> 5269.54] this hug before worship is a marker of this new family. -[5270.78 --> 5277.62] And so, if in our worship together at the beginning, when we say, turn to those around you and welcome them in worship, -[5277.62 --> 5282.84] I really want to encourage you when we do that, don't just do that to your biological family. -[5283.92 --> 5284.12] Right? -[5284.16 --> 5286.86] Don't just turn to your kids and say, good morning. -[5287.60 --> 5295.68] Turn to your blood-bought family and say, brother, sister, you are mine and I am yours. -[5297.06 --> 5297.48] Right? -[5297.52 --> 5299.62] Maybe not a holy kiss, but a holy handshake. -[5300.84 --> 5306.24] Something more is going on in this moment and in this group. -[5306.24 --> 5309.62] It means you are not alone. -[5310.04 --> 5312.26] You are never alone. -[5313.90 --> 5318.56] I charge you before the Lord to have this letter read to all the brothers and sisters. -[5319.12 --> 5327.18] The word of God as fuel for this promise and invitation as our defining peace together. -[5327.42 --> 5329.24] And then one last promise. -[5330.24 --> 5333.68] And after I read this, I invite you all together to say, amen. -[5333.68 --> 5338.00] The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. -[5338.92 --> 5339.40] Amen. -[5340.10 --> 5340.78] Let's pray. -[5340.78 --> 5359.84] Lord Jesus Christ, blow in the power of the Holy Spirit that we might be transformed into the image of you, our Savior. -[5359.84 --> 5365.96] That we might rest sure in the promise of our new identity. -[5366.40 --> 5370.88] And in that identity, we might see an invitation to love and serve. -[5371.80 --> 5374.72] And that in that new identity, we might see a new family. -[5375.22 --> 5380.58] A new community of people to walk this road of life and faith with us. -[5381.00 --> 5383.56] Open our hearts, Lord God. -[5383.56 --> 5387.76] That we might follow after your leading. -[5389.76 --> 5396.06] And in this moment, as we have hoisted the sails of our obedience and of our coming to your word, -[5396.90 --> 5402.66] may you blow us forward and out in the power of your Spirit -[5402.66 --> 5407.88] so that we might declare the praises of him who has called us out of darkness into his wonderful light. -[5407.88 --> 5412.68] May that be our anthem of faith this morning. -[5413.26 --> 5416.98] Rooted in who you are and what you have done. -[5417.62 --> 5419.36] In Jesus' name we pray. -[5420.40 --> 5420.76] Amen. -[5421.70 --> 5422.02] Amen. -[5422.02 --> 5422.14] Amen. -[5422.14 --> 5422.18] Amen. -[5422.18 --> 5424.14] Amen. -[5424.14 --> 5425.14] Amen. -[5425.14 --> 5426.14] Amen. -[5426.14 --> 5428.14] Amen. -[5428.14 --> 5430.14] Amen. -[5430.14 --> 5432.14] Amen. -[5432.14 --> 5434.14] Amen. -[5434.14 --> 5436.14] Amen. -[5436.14 --> 5437.14] Amen. -[5437.14 --> 5437.64] Amen. -[5437.64 --> 5437.86] Amen. -[5437.88 --> 5444.38] Amen. -[5444.38 --> 5445.42] Amen. -[5445.42 --> 5445.66] Amen. -[5445.66 --> 5446.30] Amen. -[5446.30 --> 5447.58] Amen. -[5447.58 --> 5449.76] Amen. -[5449.76 --> 5449.82] Amen. -[5449.82 --> 5456.56] Be still, my soul, the Lord is on my side. -[5458.04 --> 5458.42] Be still, my soul, the Lord is on my side. -[5458.42 --> 5465.42] Bear patiently the cross of grief for pain. -[5465.42 --> 5482.84] Leave to thy God to order and provide, in every change he faithful will remain. -[5482.84 --> 5500.84] Be still my soul, thy best, thy heavenly friend, through thorny ways leads to a joyful end. -[5500.84 --> 5518.22] Be still my soul, thy God doth undertake, to guide the future as he has the past. -[5518.22 --> 5535.20] Thy hope, thy confidence, let nothing shake, and thou mysterious shall be bright at last. -[5535.20 --> 5550.94] Be still my soul, thy ways and winds still know, his voice to rule them while he dwelt below. -[5550.94 --> 5568.60] In you I rest, in you I found my hope, in you I trust, you never let me go. -[5568.60 --> 5577.84] I place my life within your hands alone. -[5577.84 --> 5592.84] Be still my soul, be still my soul, the hour is facing on. -[5592.84 --> 5601.08] When we shall be forever with the Lord. -[5601.84 --> 5608.84] When disappointment, grief and fear are gone. -[5608.84 --> 5615.84] Sorrow for God, love's purest joys restored. -[5615.84 --> 5624.84] Be still my soul, when change and tears are past. -[5624.84 --> 5632.84] All safe and blessed, we shall meet at last. -[5632.84 --> 5641.84] In you I rest, in you I found my hope. -[5641.84 --> 5649.84] In you I trust, you never let me go. -[5649.84 --> 5658.84] I place my life within your hands alone. -[5658.84 --> 5664.84] Be still my soul, be still my soul. -[5664.84 --> 5669.84] In you I rest, in you I rest. -[5669.84 --> 5673.84] In you I found my hope. -[5673.84 --> 5681.84] In you I trust, you never let me go. -[5681.84 --> 5693.84] I place my life within your hands alone. -[5693.84 --> 5700.84] Be still my soul, be still my soul. -[5700.84 --> 5705.84] Be still my soul. -[5705.84 --> 5714.84] Be still my soul. -[5714.84 --> 5742.84] Amen. -[5742.84 --> 5749.84] Amen. -[5749.84 --> 5755.84] As we go into this week, we do not go alone. -[5755.84 --> 5759.84] But God himself goes with you. -[5759.84 --> 5766.84] Into whatever circumstance you may face, God is with you. -[5766.84 --> 5775.84] And so receive his blessing for the journey ahead. -[5775.84 --> 5779.84] God go before you to lead you. -[5779.84 --> 5782.84] God go behind you to protect you. -[5782.84 --> 5785.84] God go beneath you to support you. -[5785.84 --> 5788.84] God go beside you to befriend you. -[5788.84 --> 5789.84] Do not be afraid. -[5789.84 --> 5792.84] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[5792.84 --> 5794.84] Do not be afraid. -[5794.84 --> 5797.84] The one who calls you is faithful. -[5797.84 --> 5800.84] And he will do it. -[5800.84 --> 5801.84] Amen. -[5801.84 --> 5802.84] Amen. -[5802.84 --> 5803.84] Amen. -[5803.84 --> 5804.84] Amen. -[5804.84 --> 5808.84] Amen. -[5808.84 --> 5824.76] our -[5824.76 --> 5837.16] guide me oh my great redeemer pilgrim through this -[5837.16 --> 5857.16] spirit land i am weak but you are mighty hold me with your powerful hand bread of heaven bread of heaven -[5857.16 --> 5871.16] feed me now and evermore -[5872.92 --> 5883.16] open now the crystal fountain where the healing waters flow -[5883.16 --> 5901.16] let the fire and cloudy pillar lead me on my journey through strong deliver strong deliver -[5901.16 --> 5911.16] ever be my strength and shield ever be my strength and shield -[5913.16 --> 5933.16] when i tread the verge of jordan did my anxious fears subside death of death and hell's destruction -[5933.16 --> 5951.16] let me be safe on canaan's side strong of praises songs of praises i will ever sing to you -[5951.16 --> 5965.16] songs of praises songs of praises i will ever sing to you -[5965.16 --> 5979.16] sing to you -[5979.16 --> 5981.16] so -[5981.16 --> 5983.16] so -[5983.16 --> 5985.16] so -[5985.16 --> 5987.16] so -[5987.16 --> 5989.16] so -[5989.16 --> 5999.16] so -[5999.16 --> 6001.16] so -[6001.16 --> 6003.16] so -[6003.16 --> 6007.16] so -[6007.16 --> 6021.16] so -[6021.16 --> 6025.16] so -[6025.16 --> 6027.16] so -[6027.16 --> 6041.16] so -[6041.16 --> 6043.16] so -[6043.16 --> 6045.16] so -[6045.16 --> 6047.16] so -[6047.16 --> 6049.16] so -[6049.16 --> 6051.16] so -[6051.16 --> 6053.16] so -[6053.16 --> 6055.16] so -[6055.16 --> 6057.16] much -[6057.16 --> 6061.16] so -[6061.16 --> 6063.16] so -[6063.16 --> 6065.16] so -[6065.16 --> 6067.16] so -[6067.16 --> 6069.16] so -[6069.16 --> 6071.16] so -[6071.16 --> 6073.16] so -[6073.16 --> 6075.16] so -[6075.16 --> 6077.16] so -[6077.16 --> 6079.16] so -[6079.16 --> 6087.16] so -[6087.16 --> 6089.16] so -[6089.16 --> 6091.16] so -[6091.16 --> 6093.16] so -[6093.16 --> 6099.16] so -[6099.16 --> 6101.16] so -[6101.16 --> 6103.16] so -[6103.16 --> 6113.16] who could -[6113.16 --> 6115.16] so -[6115.16 --> 6117.16] so -[6117.16 --> 6119.16] so -[6119.16 --> 6121.16] so -[6121.16 --> 6123.16] so -[6123.16 --> 6127.16] so -[6127.16 --> 6129.16] so -[6129.16 --> 6131.16] so -[6131.16 --> 6133.16] so -[6133.16 --> 6135.16] so -[6135.16 --> 6137.16] so -[6137.16 --> 6139.16] so -[6139.16 --> 6141.16] so -[6141.16 --> 6143.16] so -[6143.16 --> 6147.16] so -[6147.16 --> 6149.16] so -[6149.16 --> 6151.16] so -[6151.16 --> 6153.16] so -[6153.16 --> 6155.16] so -[6155.16 --> 6157.16] so -[6157.16 --> 6159.16] so -[6159.16 --> 6161.16] so -[6161.16 --> 6163.16] so -[6163.16 --> 6167.16] so -[6167.16 --> 6169.16] so -[6169.16 --> 6171.16] so -[6171.16 --> 6173.16] so -[6173.16 --> 6175.16] so -[6175.16 --> 6177.16] so -[6177.16 --> 6179.16] so -[6179.16 --> 6181.16] so -[6181.16 --> 6183.16] so -[6183.16 --> 6185.16] so -[6185.16 --> 6187.16] so -[6187.16 --> 6189.16] so -[6189.16 --> 6191.16] so -[6191.16 --> 6193.16] what -[6193.16 --> 6195.16] you -[6195.16 --> 6197.16] you -[6197.16 --> 6199.16] you -[6199.16 --> 6201.16] you -[6201.16 --> 6203.16] you -[6203.16 --> 6205.16] you -[6205.16 --> 6207.16] you -[6221.16 --> 6244.88] This is a dream -[6244.88 --> 6249.76] Dream for the world to see you -[6249.76 --> 6253.50] Dream for the world to know you -[6253.50 --> 6256.14] To love your name -[6256.14 --> 6260.78] Lift up a shout -[6260.78 --> 6265.06] Lift up a cry to shake the ground -[6265.06 --> 6268.26] Shining the walls coming down diff --git a/Sunday Worship, November 10, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, November 10, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 39f520f7841c33c1134fe753ffa30f5219d03eba..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, November 10, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,86 +0,0 @@ -• Worship and prayer -• Forgiveness through Jesus' blood -• Invitation to come to the altar for forgiveness and new life -• Call to leave regrets behind and surrender to God's love -• Celebration of Christ's resurrection and sovereignty -• A person expresses their dependence on God's presence in their life -• Confession of sin during a prayer time -• Reading and singing passages about the glory, power, and presence of the Lord -• Reference to Jesus Christ on the cross as an act of redemption -• Worship through song and declaration of praise -• Worship service with repetitive prayer and hymn singing -• Introduction to a deacon named Pearl, who is giving an offering for the church budget and Seeds of Hope ministry -• Description of the Seeds of Hope ministry, which provides care for orphans in Africa affected by AIDS -• Prayers from the congregation, asking for heart change, spiritual growth, and guidance -• Discussion of a "kids' corner" activity before children's worship time -• Introduction and explanation of a tin can telephone contraption -• Testing the functionality of the tin can telephone with a message about prayer -• Explanation that the tin can telephone illustrates having a direct line to God through prayer -• Children's blessing and prayer for the congregation -• Announcement from an elder (Clary) regarding council meeting topics, including the 2025 ministry and mission budget and vulnerable sector volunteers -• Prayer for Mary Feitzma, who recently fell and broke her hip -• Prayers for healing and recovery -• Request for God's presence and guidance in the congregation -• Prayer for those struggling with illnesses or emotional issues -• Petition for God to work in systems of care, such as foster care and adoption -• Thanking God for gifts and blessings within the church community -• Prayer for financial stability and future growth -• Celebration of serving hearts and a desire to work for God's kingdom -• A prayer is given for peace and an end to ongoing wars. -• The reader prays for hope and peace from God until Jesus returns. -• The reader turns their attention to the Bible and asks for guidance in understanding it. -• The story of Joseph continues, with a focus on Genesis 41:1-40. -• Pharaoh has two dreams that he cannot interpret, about cows and grain being eaten by other cows and grain. -• The chief cupbearer remembers a Hebrew servant named Joseph who interpreted his own dream and the chief baker's dream while they were in prison. -• Pharaoh sends for Joseph to come and interpret his dreams. -• Joseph tells Pharaoh that God has revealed what he is about to do, and the dreams are about seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine. -• The famine that will ravage Egypt will be so severe that the abundance in the land will not be remembered. -• Pharaoh is advised to appoint a wise man to manage the harvest during the seven years of abundance. -• Commissioners are appointed to collect one-fifth of the harvest and store it for the coming famine. -• Pharaoh recognizes Joseph's wisdom and discernment, giving him authority over his palace and people. -• The concept of "why" is discussed in relation to suffering, pain, and hardship, with the pastor suggesting reframing the question into "what" or "how". -• The story of a child asking "how come" is shared as an example of redirecting the "why" question. -• Suffering and evil in a sovereign God -• Why God allows suffering -• The tension between God's sovereignty and human suffering -• Practicing presence in the midst of suffering -• Shifting from asking "why" to finding ways to stand in the midst of suffering (how) -• Practicing the presence of God is the best way to survive suffering and hardship -• The practice involves renouncing all that is not God and living as if there were only God and oneself in the world -• This concept was developed by Brother Lawrence, a 17th century French Carmelite monk -• Joseph's experience in Genesis shows how one can stand through hardships despite uncertainty about their circumstances -• Practicing the presence of God requires focus on what God is doing rather than what one does themselves -• Practicing the presence of God requires being fully present in His place -• Stepping forward in faith involves waiting on God -• God makes Himself known through word, sacraments, praise, prayer, and community -• Being fully present in the encounter with God means bringing all of oneself into the presence of all of who God is -• Following the guidance of the Holy Spirit requires trust and obedience, even when others do not see or understand -• Following Christ and the community in experiencing God's presence -• Practicing the presence of God through the word, including regular Bible reading and study -• Necessity of community and connection with other believers for spiritual growth -• The Lord's Supper as a way to practice the presence of God -• Embracing suffering as an opportunity to experience God's presence -• Driving kids to various sports events and understanding the speaker's life -• The impact of social media on daily routine and making small choices to start the day differently -• Practicing presence of God through prayer and scripture -• Liturgy and sacrament as a way to experience God's presence -• Sharing in the body of Christ through communion -• Professing faith through reciting the Apostles' Creed -• The Nicene Creed is recited, describing the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ -• Invitation to the Lord's Table and explanation of the service -• Instructions for participating in communion, including gluten-free options -• Invitations for prayer and worship during the service -• Recitation of "Body of Christ given for you" and "Blood of Christ shed for you" -• Final blessings and closing of the service -• The blood of Christ cleanses sins and brings life -• Participation in bread and cup as symbols of unity with Christ -• Gratitude, faith, and response to call to follow Christ -• Peace of heaven and table fellowship with King -• Lamentation for division within the church and lost awe for God -• Cry for mercy, revival, and restoration of the church -• The cross and Jesus' sacrifice -• Sin, wrath of God, and redemption -• Forgiveness at the cross -• Victory over sin through Jesus' blood -• The empty tomb and resurrection -• Encouragement to go out into the world as God's presence \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, November 10, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, November 10, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 24810f8f9460ff188a6f47dcec39e02e3c6f938a..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, November 10, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1216 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 332.00] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 362.00] Thank you. -[390.00 --> 392.00] Thank you. -[420.00 --> 422.00] Thank you. -[450.00 --> 452.00] Thank you. -[480.00 --> 482.00] Thank you. -[510.00 --> 512.00] Thank you. -[540.00 --> 542.00] Thank you. -[570.00 --> 572.00] Thank you. -[600.00 --> 602.00] Thank you. -[630.00 --> 632.00] Thank you. -[660.00 --> 662.00] Thank you. -[662.00 --> 692.00] -[692.00 --> 694.00] Thank you. -[694.00 --> 696.00] Thank you. -[696.00 --> 698.00] Thank you. -[726.00 --> 756.00] -[756.00 --> 758.00] Thank you. -[758.00 --> 760.00] Thank you. -[760.00 --> 790.00] -[790.00 --> 792.00] Thank you. -[792.00 --> 794.00] Thank you. -[794.00 --> 824.00] We're going to be -[824.00 --> 826.00] for you. -[826.00 --> 828.00] Thank you. -[828.00 --> 830.00] Thank you. -[830.00 --> 832.00] Thank you. -[832.00 --> 834.00] Thank you. -[834.00 --> 836.00] Thank you. -[864.00 --> 866.00] Thank you. -[866.00 --> 896.00] And so, -[896.00 --> 898.00] together. -[898.00 --> 900.00] Thank you. -[928.00 --> 930.00] Thank you. -[930.00 --> 931.00] Thank you. -[931.00 --> 933.00] Amen. -[933.00 --> 935.00] Thank you. -[935.00 --> 937.00] Thank you. -[937.00 --> 939.00] Thank you. -[939.00 --> 941.00] Thank you. -[961.00 --> 962.00] Thank you. -[962.00 --> 991.98] Thank you. -[992.00 --> 999.92] Let us worship our God. He is our refuge and our fortress, our God in whom we trust. -[1000.84 --> 1010.20] As we have entered this space and into our Father's open arms, may we remember that our forgiveness was bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[1022.00 --> 1032.48] Are you hurting and broken within? Overwhelmed by the weight of your sin? -[1032.48 --> 1035.48] Jesus is calling. -[1037.86 --> 1047.68] Have you come to the end of the cell? Do you thirst for a drink from the well? -[1047.68 --> 1050.68] Jesus is calling. -[1055.28 --> 1059.52] Oh, come to the altar. -[1060.52 --> 1065.04] The Father's arms are open wide. -[1065.40 --> 1074.68] Forgiveness was bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[1074.68 --> 1088.68] Leave behind your regrets and mistakes. -[1090.34 --> 1093.68] Come today, there's no reason to wait. -[1094.80 --> 1096.84] Jesus is calling. -[1096.84 --> 1104.18] Bring your sorrows and drink them for joy. -[1104.94 --> 1108.84] Round the ashes of new life is born. -[1109.34 --> 1110.84] Jesus is calling. -[1110.84 --> 1112.84] Oh, come to the altar. -[1112.84 --> 1116.84] Oh, come to the altar. -[1116.84 --> 1122.84] The Father's arms are open wide. -[1122.84 --> 1132.22] Forgiveness was bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[1132.22 --> 1134.22] Oh, come to the altar. -[1134.22 --> 1136.22] Oh, come to the altar. -[1136.22 --> 1141.22] The Father's arms are open wide. -[1141.22 --> 1151.22] Forgiveness was bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[1151.22 --> 1157.62] His one ray was bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[1157.62 --> 1161.10] He is calling. -[1163.22 --> 1164.36] Oh, went to the altar. -[1165.06 --> 1166.24] before Him I may come ausênd to如何. -[1166.24 --> 1167.30] Jesus is calling. -[1167.30 --> 1168.48] I may see you tonight at all vesile and loss. -[1168.50 --> 1170.24] I may see you now. -[1172.24 --> 1173.04] Oh, come to the altar. -[1173.04 --> 1174.32] I may see you now. -[1174.86 --> 1175.82] There's no light before Will I Christ has brought with you. -[1175.84 --> 1176.72] Cristo is risen. -[1176.72 --> 1177.88] Oh, come to the altar. -[1178.38 --> 1179.46] I may see you now. -[1179.46 --> 1179.92] Take Him он. -[1179.92 --> 1196.92] Bow down before Him, for He is Lord of all. Sing hallelujah, Christ is risen. -[1196.92 --> 1215.92] Oh, what a Savior, isn't He wonderful? Sing hallelujah, Christ is risen. -[1215.92 --> 1232.92] Bow down before Him, for He is Lord of all. Sing hallelujah, Christ is risen. -[1232.92 --> 1247.00] Oh, come to the altar. The Father's arms are open wide. -[1247.38 --> 1256.24] Forgiveness was bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[1256.24 --> 1265.20] Oh, come to the altar. The Father's arms are open wide. -[1265.58 --> 1274.72] Forgiveness was bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[1286.24 --> 1298.12] Lay a cross as you wait for the crown. Tell the world of the treasure you found. -[1298.12 --> 1307.60] Lay a cross as you wait for the precious blood of Jesus Christ. -[1307.60 --> 1312.12] Lay a cross as you wait for the crown. -[1312.12 --> 1317.16] Lay a cross as you wait for the crown. -[1317.16 --> 1322.56] Lay a cross as you wait for the crown. -[1322.56 --> 1349.22] This is the air I breathe -[1352.56 --> 1359.56] This is the air I breathe -[1359.56 --> 1365.56] Your holy presence -[1365.56 --> 1375.56] Living in me -[1375.56 --> 1382.56] This is my daily breath -[1382.56 --> 1388.56] This is my daily breath -[1388.56 --> 1395.56] Your very word -[1395.56 --> 1401.56] Spoken to me -[1401.56 --> 1408.56] And I -[1408.56 --> 1416.56] I'm desperate for you -[1416.56 --> 1423.56] And I -[1423.56 --> 1429.56] I'm lost without you -[1429.56 --> 1451.56] This is the air I breathe -[1451.56 --> 1459.56] This is the air I breathe -[1459.56 --> 1465.56] Your holy presence -[1465.56 --> 1470.56] Living in me -[1470.56 --> 1480.56] This is my daily breath -[1480.56 --> 1485.56] This is my daily breath -[1485.56 --> 1491.56] Your very word -[1491.56 --> 1494.56] This is my daily breath -[1494.56 --> 1496.56] This is my daily breath -[1496.56 --> 1497.56] Your very word -[1497.56 --> 1501.56] Spoken to me -[1501.56 --> 1504.56] And I -[1504.56 --> 1510.56] I'm desperate for you -[1510.56 --> 1520.56] And I -[1520.56 --> 1523.56] I'm desperate for you -[1523.56 --> 1525.56] And I -[1525.56 --> 1527.56] I'm desperate for you -[1527.56 --> 1531.56] And I -[1531.56 --> 1544.56] I'm desperate for you -[1544.56 --> 1546.56] And I -[1546.56 --> 1548.56] I'm desperate for you -[1548.56 --> 1550.56] And I -[1550.56 --> 1552.56] I'm desperate for you -[1552.56 --> 1553.56] I'm desperate for you -[1553.56 --> 1555.56] I am desperate for you -[1561.56 --> 1567.56] You are the air I breathe -[1567.56 --> 1572.56] You are the air -[1572.56 --> 1577.80] I invite you to be seated. -[1582.84 --> 1585.50] We're going to spend some time in our prayer of confession right now. -[1585.60 --> 1591.38] I'll lead you in a prayer and then invite you to pray in silence afterwards as we confess to our God. -[1591.48 --> 1591.84] Let's pray. -[1594.48 --> 1602.10] Heavenly Father, we know that nothing is able to separate us from your love because of Jesus Christ. -[1602.56 --> 1610.62] In our time of silence now, Lord, let us, in that freedom, confess the wrong that we have done. -[1632.56 --> 1634.56] Amen. -[1635.22 --> 1636.22] Amen. -[1636.22 --> 1637.48] Amen. -[1637.48 --> 1639.48] Amen. -[1639.48 --> 1641.48] Amen. -[1641.48 --> 1643.48] Amen. -[1643.48 --> 1645.48] Amen. -[1645.48 --> 1647.48] Amen. -[1647.48 --> 1649.48] Amen. -[1649.48 --> 1651.48] Amen. -[1651.48 --> 1653.48] Amen. -[1653.48 --> 1655.48] Amen. -[1655.48 --> 1657.48] Amen. -[1657.48 --> 1659.48] Amen. -[1659.48 --> 1661.48] Amen. -[1661.48 --> 1669.48] Be still for the presence of the Lord, -[1669.48 --> 1677.48] the Holy One is here. -[1677.48 --> 1683.48] Come now before Him now, -[1683.48 --> 1691.48] with reverence and fear. -[1691.48 --> 1697.48] In Him no sin is found, -[1697.48 --> 1705.48] we stand on holy ground. -[1705.48 --> 1711.48] Be still for the presence of the Lord, -[1711.48 --> 1717.48] the Holy One is here. -[1717.48 --> 1721.48] I invite you to stand for the singing of the next two verses. -[1721.48 --> 1727.48] Be still for the glory of the Lord, -[1727.48 --> 1733.48] is shining all around. -[1733.48 --> 1741.48] He burns with holy fire, -[1741.48 --> 1749.48] with splendor He is proud. -[1749.48 --> 1755.48] How awesome is the sun, -[1755.48 --> 1761.48] our radiant King of light. -[1761.48 --> 1767.48] Be still for the glory of the Lord, -[1767.48 --> 1773.48] is shining all around. -[1773.48 --> 1781.48] Be still for the power of the Lord, -[1781.48 --> 1787.48] is moving in this place. -[1787.48 --> 1795.48] He comes to cleanse and heal, -[1795.48 --> 1801.48] to minister His praise. -[1801.48 --> 1803.48] No work too hard for Him, -[1803.48 --> 1807.48] no work too hard for Him, -[1807.48 --> 1813.48] in faith receive from Him. -[1813.48 --> 1817.48] Be still for the power of the Lord, -[1817.48 --> 1821.48] is moving in this place. -[1821.48 --> 1829.48] He is moving in this place. -[1829.48 --> 1835.48] Be still for the presence of the Lord, -[1835.48 --> 1843.48] the Holy One is He. -[1843.48 --> 1844.48] He is moving in this place. -[1844.48 --> 1845.48] If we take our prayers if we have done, -[1845.48 --> 1847.48] we take our prayers. -[1847.48 --> 1849.48] Amen. -[1849.48 --> 1850.48] We do not know the Lord, -[1850.48 --> 1851.48] we do not know the Lord, -[1851.48 --> 1853.48] we do not know the Lord, -[1853.48 --> 1854.48] and we do not know the Lord, -[1854.48 --> 1855.48] we do not know the Lord, -[1855.48 --> 1856.48] we do not know the Lord, -[1856.48 --> 1858.48] we do not know the Lord. -[1858.48 --> 1860.48] See it there, -[1860.48 --> 1864.48] the great I am, -[1864.48 --> 1869.48] a crown of those upon His head. -[1869.48 --> 1879.14] On his head, the Father's heart displayed for us. -[1879.14 --> 1886.14] Oh God, we thank you for the cross. -[1889.50 --> 1899.42] Lifted up on Calvary's hill, we curse your name. -[1899.48 --> 1909.52] And even still, you bore our shame and paid the cost. -[1910.18 --> 1915.48] Oh God, we thank you for the cross. -[1915.48 --> 1929.48] Behold the Lamb, the story of redemption written on his hands. -[1929.48 --> 1934.48] Jesus, you will reign forevermore. -[1935.48 --> 1939.48] The victory is yours. -[1939.48 --> 1943.86] We sing your praise. -[1944.38 --> 1949.48] Endless hallelujahs to your holy name. -[1950.48 --> 1954.48] Jesus, you will reign forevermore. -[1955.48 --> 1958.48] The victory is yours. -[1958.48 --> 1960.48] Lord God, we thank you for the cross. -[1960.48 --> 1961.48] Amen. -[1961.48 --> 1962.48] Amen. -[1962.48 --> 1963.48] Amen. -[1963.48 --> 1964.48] Amen. -[1964.48 --> 1965.48] Amen. -[1965.48 --> 1971.90] This sacrifice for every sin -[1971.90 --> 1978.40] Our Savior died, the Lord of life -[1978.40 --> 1982.30] Can be contained -[1982.30 --> 1988.58] Our love has risen from the grave -[1988.58 --> 1994.66] Our love has risen from the grave -[1994.66 --> 1999.04] He pulled the Lamb -[1999.04 --> 2005.60] The story of redemption written on His hand -[2005.60 --> 2009.66] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2010.18 --> 2014.90] The victory is yours -[2014.90 --> 2017.66] We sing Your praise -[2018.44 --> 2023.66] Endless hallelujah to Your holy name -[2023.66 --> 2028.66] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2029.36 --> 2033.66] The victory is yours -[2033.66 --> 2042.66] When the age of death is done -[2043.24 --> 2046.66] We'll see Your face -[2046.66 --> 2049.66] Bright as the sun -[2049.66 --> 2050.04] Bright as the sun -[2050.04 --> 2052.66] We'll bow before -[2052.66 --> 2056.66] The King of kings -[2056.66 --> 2063.66] O God, forever we will sing -[2063.66 --> 2071.66] Behold the Lamb -[2071.66 --> 2078.54] The story of redemption written on His hands -[2078.54 --> 2083.54] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2083.54 --> 2087.54] The victory is yours -[2087.54 --> 2090.54] Behold the Lamb -[2090.54 --> 2097.54] The story of redemption written on His hands -[2097.54 --> 2098.54] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2098.54 --> 2099.54] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2099.54 --> 2104.54] The victory is yours -[2104.54 --> 2105.54] The victory is yours -[2105.54 --> 2106.54] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2106.54 --> 2107.54] The victory is yours -[2107.54 --> 2111.54] The victory is yours -[2111.54 --> 2112.54] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2112.54 --> 2113.54] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2113.54 --> 2114.54] The victory is yours -[2114.54 --> 2116.54] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2116.54 --> 2117.54] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2117.54 --> 2118.54] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2118.54 --> 2119.54] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2119.54 --> 2123.54] The victory is yours -[2123.54 --> 2124.54] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2124.54 --> 2125.54] The victory is yours -[2129.54 --> 2130.54] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2130.54 --> 2133.54] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2133.54 --> 2134.54] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2134.54 --> 2135.54] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2135.54 --> 2136.54] He will reign forevermore -[2136.54 --> 2137.54] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2137.54 --> 2138.54] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2138.54 --> 2139.54] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2139.54 --> 2148.54] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2148.54 --> 2152.54] Jesus, You will reign forevermore -[2152.54 --> 2166.52] Good morning. My name is Pearl. I'm a deacon here at Langley Emanuel. We continue our worship -[2166.52 --> 2171.42] by giving our offering, and today's offering is both for the budget, which is the ministries -[2171.42 --> 2177.92] of this church, and for Seeds of Hope. Seeds of Hope is a ministry that was founded around -[2177.92 --> 2186.66] 1995 out of Chilliwack, BC, and it's a place that ministers to kids who have become orphans -[2186.66 --> 2192.52] due to AIDS. They have been traumatized. They've lost both parents. Many of them themselves -[2192.52 --> 2201.80] are HIV positive, and currently the Seed of Hope ministry works mostly out of Zambia in -[2201.80 --> 2208.64] Africa, and there they have a children's home as well as a Grace Christian Academy, which -[2208.64 --> 2214.24] is a school where these kids can go to. So these kids receive all kinds of love and support, -[2214.24 --> 2219.52] trauma support. They also receive really good antiviral medications, so many of them, their -[2219.52 --> 2226.48] viral load is quite low, so they live quite normal lives, and there they also receive the -[2226.48 --> 2231.94] love of Jesus, they get an education, and then many of them, through all of that, even though -[2231.94 --> 2239.24] they have been so highly traumatized, go on to lead productive lives and return as leaders -[2239.24 --> 2246.54] back into their country. So Seed of Hope is a very powerfully profound ministry, and do give generously. -[2256.48 --> 2286.46] Lord, I come to you. Let my heart be changed, renewed, flowing from the -[2286.46 --> 2305.46] from the grace that I've found in you. And Lord, I've come to know the weaknesses I see -[2305.46 --> 2335.44] in me. We'll be stripped away by the power of your love. Hold me close, let your love surround me. -[2335.44 --> 2362.44] Take me near, draw me to your side. And as I wake, I'll rise up like the eagle, and I will soar with you. Your spirit leads me on. -[2362.44 --> 2392.42] Lord, unveil my eyes. Let me see you face to face the knowledge of your love as you live in me. -[2392.42 --> 2416.42] Lord, you knew my mind. You knew my mind. As you will unfold in my life. In living every day. By the power of your love. -[2416.42 --> 2439.42] hold me close, let your love surround me. Bring me near, draw me to your side. -[2439.42 --> 2446.42] And as I wake, I'll rise up like the eagle, and I will soar with you. Your spirit leads me on. In the power of your love. -[2446.42 --> 2448.42] And I will soar with you. Your spirit leads me on. In the power of your love. -[2448.42 --> 2453.42] And I will soar with you. Your spirit leads me on. In the power of your love. -[2453.42 --> 2460.42] And I will soar with you. Your spirit leads me on. In the power of your love. -[2460.42 --> 2472.42] And I will soar with you. Your spirit leads me on. In the power of your love. -[2472.42 --> 2479.42] Your spirit leads me on. In the power of your love. In the power of your love. -[2479.42 --> 2488.26] Good morning. I'm going to invite all the preschool to grade four kids to join me up front for a kids' corner before we head off to children's worship time. -[2488.26 --> 2500.26] So come on up. Find a spot here. Oh, hi. You're just right there. It's been a while. I haven't seen all you guys in a few months. -[2500.26 --> 2508.26] I think there's some faces I need to learn some names for yet. Hey, I have to show you guys something. I'm going to ask my assistant to come on up. -[2508.26 --> 2519.26] And we're going to see if this works out for us. Do you guys perhaps know what this contraption could be? What do you think, Malachi? -[2521.26 --> 2529.26] A tin can telephone. I'm amazed you knew what that was. It's like how phones used to work in the olden days when there's a cord between them. -[2529.26 --> 2536.26] I know. We've done this before. And I think some of us have not tried this before. So we're going to see if it's going to work. -[2536.26 --> 2541.26] Have you guys used a tin can telephone before? Yeah? Yeah? Oh, so you guys probably know better than I do. -[2541.26 --> 2547.26] Well, me and Riz tried this the other day and it worked then. Yeah, we've got to pull it tight. -[2547.26 --> 2553.26] So we're going to need one brave person to help us out. Sharon Malachi, how don't you help us out? And Joel, why don't you help us out? -[2553.26 --> 2563.26] And we're going to give one end of this tin can telephone to Riz. And she's, it's pretty long. I went a little, I went a little assertive with this length. -[2563.26 --> 2570.26] You might want to go down the hall there with one end. And Malachi, do you want to go with Riz? -[2570.26 --> 2577.26] Okay. And Joel's going to stay with me here. We're going to see if this thing works. Right. -[2577.26 --> 2584.26] Don't worry, guys. I think we'll all get a turn at children's worship time. Oh, boy, we're going to go a little faster than this. -[2586.26 --> 2592.26] There we go. Keep it going. Is he getting stuck? Riz, do you want to give him a hand? -[2592.26 --> 2605.26] Okay. So while they're figuring that out, Joel, what is the message? We're going to send down the telephone to Riz and Malachi. -[2605.26 --> 2615.26] Okay. We'll let these guys get set up. -[2615.26 --> 2621.26] So what are some tips, those of you that have done this before? -[2621.26 --> 2628.26] You got to keep it really tight, right? Haley? Yeah. Yeah. Those of us that have, oh, okay. You're ready to go? -[2628.26 --> 2635.26] Okay. So Joel is going to say a message. You're going to stick your, that phone right up to your ear. We'll pull it nice and tight. -[2635.26 --> 2637.26] You can say it, Joel. Yeah. -[2637.26 --> 2645.26] Do I say prayer? No, don't say it too loud. Say it right. Okay. Prayer needs prayer. Prayer is powerful. Prayer is powerful. -[2645.26 --> 2650.26] Did you hear anything? -[2650.26 --> 2659.26] Well, the batteries might be dead. Wait. You got to say it a little louder. -[2659.26 --> 2663.26] Prayer is powerful. -[2663.26 --> 2666.26] Do you hear that? -[2666.26 --> 2671.26] Oh, yeah. We'll go one more shot. Prayer is powerful. -[2671.26 --> 2673.26] Yes. -[2673.26 --> 2679.26] I can hear you, Malachi. And not because you're in the room. -[2679.26 --> 2683.26] Okay. We're going to play with this some more in children's worship time. -[2683.26 --> 2686.26] But the message Joel was saying was what? -[2686.26 --> 2688.26] Prayer is powerful. Prayer is powerful. -[2688.26 --> 2695.26] And this is our little illustration today for how, with prayer, we have a direct line to God. -[2695.26 --> 2698.26] And that is incredible. -[2698.26 --> 2702.26] God who created the earth, everything, all of us, who loves us deeply, -[2702.26 --> 2707.26] we can all talk to him whenever we want, and he listens. -[2707.26 --> 2711.26] So Riz is going to get the telephone together for me. -[2711.26 --> 2714.26] And we're going to stand together and do the children's blessing. -[2714.26 --> 2718.26] We'll bless the congregation before, as they get ready to listen to a message, -[2718.26 --> 2724.26] and they will bless us in return as we go off to learn a little bit more about prayer in children's worship time. -[2724.26 --> 2729.26] Alright, arms together. -[2729.26 --> 2731.26] The Lord be with you. -[2731.26 --> 2733.26] And also with you. -[2733.26 --> 2734.26] Okay. -[2754.26 --> 2762.26] My name is Clary, and I'm an elder here. -[2762.26 --> 2773.26] And I just want to share with you topics that we went over at our council meeting, our full council meeting, this past Tuesday evening, November the 5th. -[2773.26 --> 2778.26] There's just five items to share with you, and I think these are also in the online bulletin. -[2778.26 --> 2787.26] First of all, council reviewed the proposed 2025 ministry and mission budget with the finance committee, -[2787.26 --> 2793.26] and recommended it for presentation at the fall general meeting. -[2793.26 --> 2799.26] We also reviewed and approved the agenda for the fall general meeting. -[2799.26 --> 2804.26] We heard updates from pastors Chris and Kevin. -[2804.26 --> 2809.26] We received an update from those who attended the classes meeting recently. -[2809.26 --> 2818.26] And we reviewed and approved the list of vulnerable sector volunteers. -[2818.26 --> 2819.26] Thank you. -[2829.26 --> 2830.26] Thanks, Clary. -[2830.26 --> 2831.26] Sorry for the confusion. -[2831.26 --> 2832.26] That's on me. -[2832.26 --> 2839.26] I'm filling in for the pastoral elder who was to lead our church family prayer this morning. -[2839.26 --> 2842.26] And so I'm going to lead us in a time of prayer together. -[2842.26 --> 2848.26] Before we pray, some of you have already heard, but we're going to pray for Mary Feitzma, -[2848.26 --> 2853.26] who recently fell and broke her hip, required surgery. -[2853.26 --> 2858.26] She's doing well and is recovering and is grateful to God for that. -[2858.26 --> 2863.26] So we're going to continue to pray for her and pray for God's healing in her life. -[2863.26 --> 2864.26] Let's pray together. -[2864.26 --> 2865.26] Let's pray together. -[2865.26 --> 2866.26] Let's pray together. -[2866.26 --> 2867.26] Let's pray together. -[2867.26 --> 2868.26] Let's pray together. -[2868.26 --> 2869.26] Let's pray together. -[2869.26 --> 2873.26] Holy God and Heavenly Father, we gather here as your church to worship your name. -[2873.26 --> 2883.26] We gather here because you have called us to this place and you are now carrying us to your presence. -[2883.26 --> 2888.26] Father God, we know that by your spirit, you are present among us. -[2888.26 --> 2899.26] And so as your church called, as your church set apart for your purposes, we ask that you would accomplish your will among us. -[2899.26 --> 2910.26] Father God, as we gather today, we do so mindful of the psalmist and joining our hearts with him as he prayed, -[2910.26 --> 2916.26] I call on the Lord in my distress and he answers me. -[2916.26 --> 2922.26] And so, Lord, in our distress, we call on you waiting for your answer. -[2922.26 --> 2941.26] Father God, we pray for those in our congregation, church family, for those whom we know and love, who are unwell, who are in the midst of treatment for long-term or recent illness discoveries in their life. -[2941.26 --> 2946.26] God, we pray for those who have recently had surgery. -[2946.26 --> 2949.26] We give you thanks for the success of those surgeries. -[2949.26 --> 2953.26] And we pray also, God, for those who are waiting for treatment. -[2954.26 --> 2961.26] We ask that in the midst of the waiting, that you would give them a peace that passes all understanding. -[2962.26 --> 2968.26] That you would give them a patience that relies on your presence and your nearness. -[2968.26 --> 2976.26] Father God, we pray for Mary, asking that you would continue to be with her. -[2976.26 --> 2981.26] We thank you for your presence with her through the surgery and now into recovery. -[2981.26 --> 2987.26] And we ask that you would grant her all that she needs, that she can be restored to a full measure of health. -[2987.26 --> 2999.26] Father, we know that there are those among us who are struggling with illnesses that they have not yet shared. -[2999.26 --> 3008.26] Father, whether they are physical or emotional or issues of mental health, we pray, Lord God, that you would draw near. -[3009.26 --> 3014.26] And that you would raise us up as your body to care for one another. -[3014.26 --> 3021.26] And that we, together, might be a means of your presence in the lives of those in need. -[3025.26 --> 3030.26] God, as we pray, we pray in the truth of the psalmist who says, -[3030.26 --> 3032.26] My times are in your hands. -[3032.26 --> 3039.26] And we think about those, Lord God, who require you to work in their lives. -[3039.26 --> 3046.26] God, I pray especially this morning for those who are in the midst of systems of care. -[3046.26 --> 3053.26] For those who are in the midst of fostering or adoption or poverty resources or housing issues. -[3053.26 --> 3061.26] God, we pray that each one would know that our times are in your hands. -[3061.26 --> 3065.26] And so, God, we know that there are delays. -[3065.26 --> 3066.26] And there's often long waiting. -[3066.26 --> 3070.26] We know that there are often more questions than there are answers. -[3070.26 --> 3076.26] And so we pray, with our times in your hands, help us to endure. -[3078.26 --> 3084.26] And we pray, God, for those who need you to bring resolution to a tough case. -[3084.26 --> 3087.26] Who need you to bring an answer to a hard problem. -[3087.26 --> 3094.26] Would you move in these systems and outside of them, Lord God, to bring the care that is needed. -[3098.26 --> 3102.26] Father God, we know that every good and perfect gift is from above. -[3102.26 --> 3110.26] And so we thank you for the good gifts of leaders and of volunteers in this congregation. -[3110.26 --> 3120.26] We thank you for the meeting of council that took place and the vision that is being cast for ministry and mission year 2025 in the proposed budget. -[3120.26 --> 3127.26] We thank you for the faithfulness of this congregation in supporting the ministries of this church this past year. -[3127.26 --> 3136.26] As we finish the year together, God, I pray that you would allow us the opportunity to increase our faithfulness. -[3136.26 --> 3142.26] And so allow us to finish the year well and strong in a financial position. -[3142.26 --> 3146.26] But also, God, excited and moved by what you are doing among us. -[3146.26 --> 3150.26] And crying out that you would do another work among us. -[3150.26 --> 3152.26] That you would do a new thing among us. -[3152.26 --> 3155.26] That you would take us with confidence into the future. -[3155.26 --> 3161.26] Father, we thank you for the many people who serve in different capacities. -[3161.26 --> 3169.26] And we pray that having spoken the need this morning for children's worship time volunteers and helpers, -[3169.26 --> 3172.26] that you would stir in hearts to fill that responsibility. -[3172.26 --> 3178.26] God, I bless you for a church family that loves to serve. -[3179.26 --> 3182.26] And that longs to work for your kingdom. -[3182.26 --> 3186.26] We celebrate the way we see that in our midst together. -[3186.26 --> 3197.26] Father God, as well, we pray in the confidence of the prophet Isaiah who spoke your word to us saying, -[3197.26 --> 3198.26] I will sustain you. -[3198.26 --> 3199.26] I have made you. -[3199.26 --> 3200.26] I will carry you. -[3200.26 --> 3203.26] I will sustain you and rescue you. -[3203.26 --> 3208.26] God, on this Remembrance Day weekend, -[3208.26 --> 3214.26] we are mindful of your eternal plan of rescuing and salvation. -[3214.26 --> 3220.26] And we are mindful of those whom you have called to rescue nations, -[3220.26 --> 3222.26] to rescue war-torn countries, -[3222.26 --> 3231.26] those whom you have called to bring hope where there is none in terms of war and the strife that that can bring. -[3231.26 --> 3239.26] And so, God, we thank you for the men and women who have served the cause of peace around the world. -[3239.26 --> 3247.26] And we pray that you would move in us now to be agents of peace, ambassadors of reconciliation, -[3247.26 --> 3251.26] spurred by their stories and their memory. -[3251.26 --> 3253.26] May we seek the same. -[3253.26 --> 3258.26] God, we know that there are still wars ongoing, and so we pray for peace. -[3258.26 --> 3263.26] We know that there is escalation in those wars, and so we pray for an end. -[3263.26 --> 3271.26] And God, we pray that until that great day of your return, -[3271.26 --> 3274.26] we would fix our eyes on you, -[3274.26 --> 3280.26] looking to you for our only full source of hope and peace. -[3280.26 --> 3285.26] And God, as we fix our eyes on you, we turn now to your word. -[3285.26 --> 3291.26] Jesus, you have said to us, and we have heard that you have the words of eternal life, -[3291.26 --> 3297.26] and so speak words of life to us this morning as we open your word. -[3297.26 --> 3300.26] In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. -[3300.26 --> 3318.26] We're going to continue in our look at the story of Joseph. -[3318.26 --> 3327.26] Jumping ahead a little bit to Joseph and his story as it comes to us in Genesis 41, -[3327.26 --> 3331.26] we're going to read the first 40 verses of this story, -[3331.26 --> 3334.26] just so we can kind of get the whole narrative in our mind. -[3334.26 --> 3338.26] And it will be on the screen behind me as we go through it the first time. -[3338.26 --> 3344.26] But of course, I encourage you to have your Bibles open in front of you or on in front of you, -[3344.26 --> 3349.26] and a notebook if you have it, as we go through God's word together. -[3349.26 --> 3354.26] Let's pick up the story of Joseph. -[3354.26 --> 3360.26] When two full years had passed, Pharaoh had a dream. -[3360.26 --> 3367.26] He was standing by the Nile when out of the river there came up seven cows, sleek and fat, -[3367.26 --> 3369.26] and they grazed among the reeds. -[3369.26 --> 3374.26] After them, seven other cows, ugly and gaunt, came up out of the Nile -[3374.26 --> 3376.26] and stood beside those on the riverbank. -[3376.26 --> 3381.26] And the cows that were ugly and gaunt ate up the seven sleek, fat cows. -[3381.26 --> 3384.26] Then Pharaoh woke up. -[3384.26 --> 3387.26] He fell asleep again and had a second dream. -[3387.26 --> 3392.26] Seven heads of grain, healthy and good, were growing on a single stalk. -[3392.26 --> 3399.26] After them, seven other heads of grain sprouted, thin and scorched by the east wind. -[3399.26 --> 3404.26] The thin heads of grain swallowed up the seven healthy, full heads. -[3404.26 --> 3406.26] Then Pharaoh woke up. -[3406.26 --> 3409.26] It had been a dream. -[3409.26 --> 3414.26] In the morning his mind was troubled, and so he sent for all the magicians and wise men of Egypt. -[3414.26 --> 3418.26] Pharaoh told them his dreams, but no one could interpret them. -[3418.26 --> 3420.26] Then the chief cupbearer said to Pharaoh, -[3420.26 --> 3424.26] Today I am reminded of my shortcomings. -[3424.26 --> 3431.26] Pharaoh was once angry with his servants, and he imprisoned me and the chief baker in the house of the captain of the guard. -[3431.26 --> 3436.26] Each of us had a dream the same night, and each dream had a meaning of its own. -[3436.26 --> 3441.26] Now a young Hebrew was there with us, a servant of the captain of the guard. -[3441.26 --> 3447.26] We told him our dreams, and he interpreted them for us, giving each man the interpretation of his dream. -[3447.26 --> 3452.26] And the things turned out exactly as he had interpreted them to us. -[3452.26 --> 3459.26] I was restored to my position, and the other man was imprisoned, or was impaled. -[3459.26 --> 3464.26] So Pharaoh sent for Joseph, and he was quickly brought before the dungeon. -[3464.26 --> 3469.26] When he had shaved and changed his clothes, he came before Pharaoh. -[3469.26 --> 3471.26] Pharaoh said to Joseph, -[3471.26 --> 3479.26] I had a dream, and no one can interpret it, but I have heard it said of you that when you hear a dream, you can interpret it. -[3479.26 --> 3484.26] I cannot do it, Joseph replied to Pharaoh. -[3484.26 --> 3489.26] But God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires. -[3489.26 --> 3492.26] Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, -[3492.26 --> 3498.26] In my dream I was standing on the bank of the Nile, when out of the river there came up seven cows, fat and sleek, -[3498.26 --> 3500.26] and they grazed among the reeds. -[3500.26 --> 3504.26] After them seven other cows came up, scrawny and very ugly and lean. -[3504.26 --> 3508.26] I had never seen such ugly cows in all the land of Egypt. -[3508.26 --> 3513.26] The lean and ugly cows ate up the seven fat cows that came first. -[3513.26 --> 3517.26] But even after they ate them, no one could tell that they had done so. -[3517.26 --> 3520.26] They looked just as ugly as before. -[3520.26 --> 3522.26] And then I woke up. -[3522.26 --> 3528.26] In my dream I saw seven heads of grain, full and good, growing on a single stalk. -[3528.26 --> 3534.26] After them seven other heads sprouted, withered and thin and scorched by the east wind. -[3534.26 --> 3538.26] The thin heads of grain swallowed up the seven good heads. -[3538.26 --> 3542.26] I told this to the magicians, but none of them could explain it to me. -[3542.26 --> 3546.26] Then Joseph said to Pharaoh, -[3546.26 --> 3550.26] The dreams of Pharaoh are one and the same. -[3550.26 --> 3554.26] God has revealed to Pharaoh what he is about to do. -[3554.26 --> 3557.26] The seven good cows are seven years. -[3557.26 --> 3559.26] The seven good heads of grain are seven years. -[3559.26 --> 3562.26] And it is one and the same dream. -[3562.26 --> 3566.26] The seven lean, ugly cows that came up afterward are seven years. -[3566.26 --> 3571.26] And so the seven worthless heads of grain scorched by the east wind. -[3571.26 --> 3573.26] They are seven years of famine. -[3573.26 --> 3576.26] It is just as I said to Pharaoh. -[3576.26 --> 3580.26] God has shown to Pharaoh what he is about to do. -[3580.26 --> 3585.26] Seven years of great abundance are coming throughout the land of Egypt. -[3585.26 --> 3587.26] But seven years of famine will follow them. -[3587.26 --> 3590.26] Then all the abundance in Egypt will be forgotten. -[3590.26 --> 3593.26] The famine will ravage the land. -[3593.26 --> 3599.26] The abundance in the land will not be remembered because the famine that follows it will be so severe. -[3599.26 --> 3609.26] The reason the dream was given to Pharaoh in two forms is that the matter has been firmly decided by God and God will do it soon. -[3609.26 --> 3615.26] And now let Pharaoh look for a discerning and wise man and put him in charge of the land of Egypt. -[3615.26 --> 3622.26] Let Pharaoh appoint commissioners over the land to take a fifth of the harvest of Egypt during the seven years of abundance. -[3622.26 --> 3631.26] They should collect all the food of these good years that are coming and store up the grain under the authority of Pharaoh to be kept in the cities for food. -[3631.26 --> 3641.26] This food should be held in reserve for the country to be used during the seven years of famine that will come upon Egypt so that the country may not be ruined by the famine. -[3641.26 --> 3645.26] The plan seemed good to Pharaoh and to all his officials. -[3645.26 --> 3653.26] And so Pharaoh asked them, can we find anyone like this man, one in whom is the spirit of God? -[3653.26 --> 3663.26] Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, since God has made all this known to you, there is no one so discerning and wise as you. -[3663.26 --> 3670.26] You shall be in charge of my palace and of all my people and all my people are to submit to your orders. -[3670.26 --> 3675.26] Only with respect to the throne will I be greater than you. -[3675.26 --> 3677.26] This is the word of the Lord. -[3677.26 --> 3693.26] I want to draw your attention as your Bibles are still open to verse 16, where Joseph says, I cannot do it, but God will. -[3693.26 --> 3700.26] Hold on to that phrase as we go through our time this morning. -[3700.26 --> 3707.26] Now I mentioned before that we're in the life and the story of Joseph right now here at Emmanuel. -[3707.26 --> 3717.26] And in that we have been looking very particularly at ways to lean on God in our suffering. -[3717.26 --> 3730.26] We've called these ideas God hints as their ways of seeing God and experiencing God even in the darkest moments of our lives. -[3730.26 --> 3737.26] Because of course, I don't have to tell any of you that part of the shared human experience is pain. -[3737.26 --> 3739.26] It's hardship. -[3739.26 --> 3741.26] It's trial. -[3741.26 --> 3755.26] And coming out of that, part of the same shared human experience of suffering is asking the question, probably most of the time, why? -[3755.26 --> 3758.26] Why is this happening to me? -[3758.26 --> 3760.26] Why would God let this happen to me? -[3760.26 --> 3761.26] Why can't we fix it? -[3761.26 --> 3763.26] Why is he sick? -[3763.26 --> 3765.26] Why is she leaving? -[3765.26 --> 3766.26] Why? -[3766.26 --> 3768.26] We just don't know why. -[3768.26 --> 3775.26] Now, why can sometimes be simple, but in the midst of our trials it rarely is, right? -[3775.26 --> 3787.26] When my kids were really young, especially my oldest, Nora, she's not here so I'm grateful for that this morning. -[3787.26 --> 3790.26] She loved to ask why. -[3790.26 --> 3792.26] You know the question. -[3792.26 --> 3794.26] You know how it works with kids, right? -[3794.26 --> 3800.26] Every time you ask them to do something, they turn to you, they look at you and say, why? -[3800.26 --> 3809.26] Now, sometimes why can be heard as like a hard question or a question that puts people on the defensive. -[3809.26 --> 3817.26] One of the things that I learned as a pastor in counseling training is not to ask why, but to reframe the question into different ways. -[3817.26 --> 3824.26] And so, instead of saying why, we might say, what about that situation makes you feel that way? -[3824.26 --> 3827.26] Or how did you come to think that way about this? -[3827.26 --> 3837.26] And so, in our house, I would always redirect the why question, but my daughter is smart, and she learned that, and she picked up on it. -[3837.26 --> 3843.26] And so, instead of asking why, Nora would eventually start to ask, well, how come? -[3843.26 --> 3846.26] So I would say, would you please wash your hands before dinner? -[3846.26 --> 3848.26] She'd go, how come? -[3848.26 --> 3851.26] Well, because they're dirty and I don't want you to get germs on them. -[3851.26 --> 3852.26] Well, how come? -[3852.26 --> 3854.26] Because germs are not for sharing. -[3854.26 --> 3857.26] That was the title of a book that we had when we were young that Nora loved. -[3857.26 --> 3859.26] No, Daddy, how come they're dirty? -[3859.26 --> 3864.26] Well, because you got glue on them and marker on them when you were doing your crafts earlier. -[3864.26 --> 3865.26] Well, how come? -[3865.26 --> 3868.26] Well, because of the way you hold onto the marker, it gets stuff on your hands. -[3868.26 --> 3871.26] No, how come germs are not for sharing? -[3871.26 --> 3872.26] She would say. -[3872.26 --> 3874.26] And on and on this would go. -[3874.26 --> 3876.26] Why? -[3876.26 --> 3883.26] From a young age, the question, how come, shaped our life as a family. -[3883.26 --> 3885.26] Now, let's be honest again, right? -[3885.26 --> 3888.26] That doesn't change as you get older. -[3888.26 --> 3891.26] Sometimes they get a little bit more harder, but they're still there. -[3891.26 --> 3894.26] How come I can't play hockey on Sunday? -[3894.26 --> 3895.26] Joey does. -[3895.26 --> 3897.26] They go to the same church that we do. -[3897.26 --> 3899.26] There's a touchy subject. -[3899.26 --> 3902.26] Why are teenage girls so mean? -[3902.26 --> 3905.26] There's another touchy subject. -[3905.26 --> 3909.26] Why does mass equal weight in Newtons divided by the force of gravity? -[3909.26 --> 3912.26] There's an unknown. -[3912.26 --> 3914.26] Why do I have to go to college? -[3914.26 --> 3918.26] But again, they can get even harder. -[3918.26 --> 3920.26] Why did Grandma die? -[3920.26 --> 3923.26] Why do I have cancer? -[3923.26 --> 3928.26] If God is good and all-powerful, why is there evil in the world? -[3928.26 --> 3939.26] And this last one is kind of the rub behind all of our questions, right? -[3939.26 --> 3944.26] When things are bad, when we suffer, when things aren't going the way they want them to. -[3944.26 --> 3948.26] If God is sovereign, why do I have to suffer? -[3948.26 --> 3950.26] Can't God just fix it all? -[3950.26 --> 3952.26] Or maybe we put it another way. -[3952.26 --> 3954.26] Do I have to suffer? -[3954.26 --> 3958.26] If God wants me to learn something, can't he just teach me another way? -[3958.26 --> 3969.26] The tension that we've been living in in this series of sermons is the truth that God is sovereign, that he is the supreme ruler. -[3969.26 --> 3973.26] In the words of one theologian, Herman Bobink, we said that, -[3973.26 --> 3976.26] Apart from God, there is no existence or ownership. -[3976.26 --> 3979.26] He alone has absolute authority. -[3979.26 --> 3982.26] Always and everywhere his will decides. -[3982.26 --> 3984.26] That's sovereignty. -[3984.26 --> 3987.26] God is all-powerful, all-controlling, all-sovereign. -[3987.26 --> 3991.26] Nothing happens, nothing, without his will. -[3991.26 --> 3996.26] God created all things, Ephesians 3, 9. -[3996.26 --> 4000.26] In him all things hold together, Colossians 1, 16. -[4000.26 --> 4005.26] He sustains all things by his word of power, Hebrews 1, 3. -[4005.26 --> 4008.26] Nothing exists apart from his will. -[4008.26 --> 4010.26] Heidelberg Catechism question and answer 1 says, -[4010.26 --> 4020.26] God also watches over me in such a way that not a hair can fall from my head without the will of my Father in heaven. -[4020.26 --> 4027.26] The truth of the Bible that we have been living in and grounding upon is that God is sovereign. -[4027.26 --> 4034.26] But the truth of our Bible and the truth of our shared experience is that we endure suffering. -[4034.26 --> 4038.26] And becoming a follower of Jesus doesn't set us free from that. -[4038.26 --> 4041.26] We don't get to escape it. -[4041.26 --> 4043.26] Jesus actually says in John 16, 33, -[4043.26 --> 4045.26] In this world you will have trouble. -[4045.26 --> 4049.26] The psalmist gives us voice in Psalm 22 when he says, -[4049.26 --> 4051.26] My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? -[4051.26 --> 4052.26] Or in Psalm 42, -[4052.26 --> 4058.26] My bones suffer mortal agony as my foes taunt me, saying to me all day long, -[4058.26 --> 4060.26] Where is your God? -[4060.26 --> 4065.26] And we've said that we live in the experience of this tension, -[4065.26 --> 4072.26] but I've also made the claim that this tension is not a contradiction. -[4072.26 --> 4086.26] And that we can give sufficient, I think, and compelling, cogent, philosophical and theological answers to the reason why of human suffering in the light of a sovereign God. -[4086.26 --> 4088.26] We've talked about that in the past in this series. -[4088.26 --> 4092.26] We talk about it every week in the Narthex podcast that we do. -[4092.26 --> 4101.26] But what matters for me this morning and for us to hear this morning is the shift from why to how. -[4101.26 --> 4106.26] How can we stand in the midst of suffering? -[4106.26 --> 4111.26] That's what this God hints and our God hints have been about, right? -[4111.26 --> 4113.26] Standing in the midst of suffering. -[4113.26 --> 4115.26] Not so much the why. -[4115.26 --> 4120.26] Because the truth is, in the midst of the valley of the shadow of death, -[4120.26 --> 4124.26] in the midst of our bones crying out in mortal agony, -[4124.26 --> 4126.26] in the midst of surgery and recovery, -[4126.26 --> 4128.26] in the midst of death and dying, -[4128.26 --> 4130.26] in the midst of depression and a dark night of the soul, -[4130.26 --> 4133.26] in the midst of a spouse leaving, -[4133.26 --> 4142.26] the why matters little when compared to the how can I stand. -[4142.26 --> 4147.26] I just want to know how to survive this. -[4147.26 --> 4149.26] Now hear that carefully. -[4149.26 --> 4150.26] Right? -[4150.26 --> 4153.26] We might ask the why question. -[4153.26 --> 4154.26] But in asking the why question, -[4154.26 --> 4159.26] I want to suggest that what we are really looking for is a way to push through. -[4159.26 --> 4161.26] A way to survive. -[4161.26 --> 4162.26] Right? -[4162.26 --> 4164.26] Well, why is often asked. -[4164.26 --> 4167.26] The answer that we need is how. -[4167.26 --> 4168.26] How. -[4168.26 --> 4173.26] And part of how for us is keeping God's vision of the future in mind. -[4173.26 --> 4174.26] Right? -[4174.26 --> 4176.26] We remember the meanwhile, -[4176.26 --> 4179.26] that God has a plan and is actively bringing it out. -[4179.26 --> 4183.26] We remind ourselves that God promises to never leave us nor forsake us, -[4183.26 --> 4184.26] that we are not alone. -[4184.26 --> 4188.26] And today, through the story of Joseph in Genesis 41, -[4188.26 --> 4192.26] we are going to add the God hint of practicing presence. -[4192.26 --> 4195.26] Practicing presence. -[4195.26 --> 4197.26] I have drawn your attention to it once already. -[4197.26 --> 4200.26] Verse 16 in our text, -[4200.26 --> 4201.26] Joseph says, -[4201.26 --> 4203.26] I cannot do it, -[4203.26 --> 4206.26] but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires. -[4206.26 --> 4207.26] I cannot do it. -[4207.26 --> 4208.26] I don't know, -[4208.26 --> 4210.26] but I know the one who does. -[4210.26 --> 4212.26] I know the one who can. -[4212.26 --> 4215.26] God will give you the answer, -[4215.26 --> 4216.26] but God will give you the answer. -[4216.26 --> 4217.26] In verse 39, -[4217.26 --> 4218.26] Pharaoh says to Joseph, -[4218.26 --> 4220.26] God has made all this known to you. -[4220.26 --> 4223.26] God has made all this known to you. -[4223.26 --> 4228.26] God's presence is with you and he is making himself known to you. -[4228.26 --> 4230.26] And so, -[4230.26 --> 4231.26] with this God hint, -[4231.26 --> 4233.26] I want to suggest to you, -[4233.26 --> 4244.26] the best way to survive suffering and hardship is to practice the presence of God with us. -[4244.26 --> 4246.26] Now, very clearly, -[4246.26 --> 4252.26] what I want you to hear at this first step on this journey is that I'm talking about the best way. -[4252.26 --> 4253.26] Right? -[4253.26 --> 4254.26] There are other ways. -[4254.26 --> 4257.26] And again, let me be really clear. -[4257.26 --> 4265.26] You don't have to be a Christian or you don't even have to have a particular understanding of God or of the world to get through hardship. -[4265.26 --> 4268.26] But I do believe that this is the best way. -[4268.26 --> 4269.26] Right? -[4269.26 --> 4275.26] All of us, whether you are Christian or not, whether you are religious, any type of religious or not, -[4275.26 --> 4284.26] all of us have experienced some form of trial and hardship and we've made it through or we're making it through. -[4284.26 --> 4285.26] Right? -[4285.26 --> 4291.26] The testimony of human history is overcoming hardship and trial and challenges. -[4291.26 --> 4294.26] This might sound strange for a pastor to say, -[4294.26 --> 4296.26] you don't need Jesus for that. -[4296.26 --> 4298.26] You need resolve. -[4298.26 --> 4299.26] You need perseverance. -[4299.26 --> 4301.26] Maybe a little stubbornness. -[4301.26 --> 4306.26] But I'm not just talking about getting through it today. -[4306.26 --> 4307.26] Right? -[4307.26 --> 4311.26] And though sometimes that maybe that's all we're expected to do, -[4311.26 --> 4314.26] I'm talking about suffering with purpose. -[4314.26 --> 4316.26] I'm talking about a better way. -[4316.26 --> 4323.26] I'm talking about being transformed from one degree of glory to another through suffering. -[4323.26 --> 4333.26] And I think that the best way to do that, the key here, is the practice of the presence of God. -[4333.26 --> 4340.26] Now, very clearly, I'm using that as a technical phrase, practicing the presence of God. -[4340.26 --> 4350.26] It's a phrase that I'm borrowing from a 17th century French Carmelite monk named Brother Lawrence. -[4350.26 --> 4356.26] He defines this, practicing the presence of God, as this. -[4356.26 --> 4363.26] After having given myself wholly to God, to make all the satisfaction I could for my sins, -[4363.26 --> 4369.26] I renounce for the love of Him everything that was not He. -[4369.26 --> 4382.26] And I begin to live as if there were none but He and I in the world. -[4382.26 --> 4388.26] And he works that out in his correspondences and writings. -[4388.26 --> 4390.26] And he continues, he says, -[4390.26 --> 4395.26] The time of busyness does not with me differ from the time of prayer. -[4395.26 --> 4401.26] In the noise and clatter of my kitchen, while several persons are at the same time calling for different things, -[4401.26 --> 4409.26] I possess God in as great tranquility as if I were upon my knees at the blessed sacrament. -[4409.26 --> 4418.26] That's practicing the presence such that whether you're doing dishes in the kitchen or you're here in worship, -[4418.26 --> 4427.26] the experience of God's nearness to you is there, is in you and with you. -[4427.26 --> 4433.26] And so, as we prepare for suffering, as we stand in the midst of suffering, -[4433.26 --> 4440.26] even as we try to just survive our suffering, I want to ask you, -[4440.26 --> 4445.26] how are you practicing the presence of God with us? -[4445.26 --> 4449.26] Or in the language of this story in verse 39, right, -[4449.26 --> 4452.26] what patterns and behaviors, habits, attitudes, decisions, -[4452.26 --> 4460.26] what disciplines have you put in place for God to make all this known to you? -[4460.26 --> 4469.26] Joseph, in this part of the story, didn't know why he had to experience so much heartache -[4469.26 --> 4472.26] or misunderstandings or hardship. -[4472.26 --> 4477.26] He could have looked around and it probably would have been easy for him to say, -[4477.26 --> 4479.26] None of this makes sense. -[4479.26 --> 4481.26] Everything went wrong. -[4481.26 --> 4484.26] God, at the beginning, you told me that people would bow down to me -[4484.26 --> 4488.26] and I've spent the last 11 years in prison. -[4488.26 --> 4496.26] Joseph's why could have been loud and we would understand it. -[4496.26 --> 4501.26] But instead, what he's revealing for us is his how. -[4501.26 --> 4503.26] How could he stand? -[4503.26 --> 4506.26] How could he know the presence of God was with him, -[4506.26 --> 4511.26] making himself known to him and to those around him through him? -[4511.26 --> 4516.26] And so maybe the trick isn't so much a priority on what you do, -[4516.26 --> 4519.26] but instead on what God is doing. -[4521.26 --> 4526.26] This week, last Friday, I had the chance to go with Nora -[4526.26 --> 4532.26] to Gallery 7's production of Prince Caspian in Abbotsford. -[4532.26 --> 4538.26] Prince Caspian is a story written by C.S. Lewis in the Chronicles of Narnia series. -[4538.26 --> 4540.26] There was a few of us from church who were there, actually. -[4540.26 --> 4542.26] Good to see you again. -[4542.26 --> 4549.26] And that story and the playwrights, Damien Atkins, who compiled it based on that work, -[4549.26 --> 4553.26] begins with a sort of monologue as a way of introduction. -[4553.26 --> 4558.26] And I couldn't find the script because I didn't want to pay for it. -[4558.26 --> 4562.26] So I'm paraphrasing out of my own memory. -[4562.26 --> 4567.26] But as part of the monologue at the beginning, part of the introduction to the play, -[4567.26 --> 4570.26] the doctor, who sort of functions as the narrator throughout, -[4570.26 --> 4572.26] says, -[4572.26 --> 4579.26] Looking back on a story, we can all see the steps that got us to the end. -[4579.26 --> 4586.26] While we are in the story, all we can do is take that next step forward in faith, -[4586.26 --> 4589.26] knowing that we'll get somewhere. -[4589.26 --> 4592.26] And so maybe you're in the middle of a story that's being written, -[4592.26 --> 4595.26] and you have no idea what the end is. -[4595.26 --> 4600.26] The how for you becomes that next step of faith. -[4600.26 --> 4604.26] And so what do you do when you feel like life is passing you by -[4604.26 --> 4606.26] or spiraling out of control? -[4606.26 --> 4611.26] What if you do if you can't find help or deliverance or relief today or tomorrow -[4611.26 --> 4613.26] or it doesn't look like it's going to come anytime soon? -[4613.26 --> 4619.26] What happens when things are unclear or unconvincing or uncomfortable? -[4619.26 --> 4625.26] What is true for you when things change or when time flies -[4625.26 --> 4626.26] or when people disappoint you? -[4626.26 --> 4629.26] Because people will always disappoint you. -[4629.26 --> 4636.26] What does stepping forward in faith look like for you? -[4636.26 --> 4641.26] And perhaps paradoxically for Joseph, it meant waiting. -[4641.26 --> 4644.26] It meant standing still. It meant waiting on God. -[4644.26 --> 4648.26] That's part of practicing the presence. -[4648.26 --> 4651.26] And so how do you wait? -[4651.26 --> 4652.26] Now here's what I believe. -[4652.26 --> 4659.26] I believe that God makes himself known to us through word and sacraments, -[4659.26 --> 4663.26] through praise and prayer, and through his people. -[4663.26 --> 4670.26] And when we come to God in prayer and praise, we are practicing the presence. -[4670.26 --> 4676.26] God promises to show up in a special and unique way when we come to him together, -[4676.26 --> 4680.26] singing his praises and lifting up our prayers as a community. -[4680.26 --> 4686.26] That's a given to us according to the word of God, where in Matthew 18 we can read, -[4686.26 --> 4693.26] When two or three are gathered in my name, there I am with them also. -[4693.26 --> 4702.26] And so I ask you, if God promises to show up here, how are you showing up here? -[4702.26 --> 4709.26] Are you bringing all of who you are, all of it, the garbage, the trials, the crap, everything, -[4709.26 --> 4714.26] Are you bringing all of who you are into the presence of all of who God is? -[4714.26 --> 4717.26] The fullness of yourself into the fullness of God. -[4717.26 --> 4719.26] That's this sacred space. -[4722.26 --> 4724.26] Or are you coming here behind a mask? -[4727.26 --> 4732.26] Are you coming here in your best dressed, best quaffed hair, -[4732.26 --> 4739.26] So that no one would see the truth of what's going on in your heart and in your mind? -[4739.26 --> 4745.26] Do you cover up and cower behind a posture or a position? -[4746.26 --> 4751.26] Are you bringing everything into this encounter with the living God? -[4752.26 --> 4760.26] Practicing the presence of God comes by being fully present in the place where God says he will be, -[4760.26 --> 4766.26] And through the people in whom God says he will reside. -[4770.26 --> 4773.26] Again, in this play, Prince Caspian, -[4774.26 --> 4781.26] Later, down near the end, the Pevensey children have to make their way from -[4782.26 --> 4786.26] Caerperivel, which is now in ruins, to the how of Aslan, the lion, -[4786.26 --> 4790.26] And they have to choose between one direction or another. -[4790.26 --> 4797.26] And this direction looks impossible, it looks unlikely, and this direction looks at least plausible, if hard. -[4798.26 --> 4801.26] And Lucy sees Aslan in the distance and says, -[4802.26 --> 4804.26] We have to go that way. He's calling us to go that way. -[4804.26 --> 4805.26] But no one else does. -[4806.26 --> 4808.26] Peter, Susan, and Edmund say, -[4808.26 --> 4810.26] No, I didn't see him. We need to go this way. -[4810.26 --> 4812.26] And so they go that way. -[4814.26 --> 4818.26] And it turns out they journey for hours and hours and hours and get nowhere. -[4818.26 --> 4824.26] They come to an impassable, what used to be a creek, a thousand years later in the story is now a ravine. -[4826.26 --> 4828.26] And so finally they turn and say, -[4828.26 --> 4830.26] Maybe we should have listened to Lucy. -[4830.26 --> 4834.26] And Lucy says, There, I see him again. Over there. Can't you see him? -[4834.26 --> 4836.26] And all the kids turn and they don't see him. -[4836.26 --> 4838.26] They don't see Aslan. -[4838.26 --> 4841.26] But Lucy says, No, he's there. We have to go this way. -[4841.26 --> 4843.26] And they all say, I don't think we can. -[4844.26 --> 4845.26] Because I don't see him. -[4846.26 --> 4849.26] And Lucy says, Whether you can or not doesn't matter. -[4850.26 --> 4851.26] I can. I'm going. -[4853.26 --> 4855.26] And then they join her. -[4856.26 --> 4857.26] And they journey with her. -[4857.26 --> 4858.26] And they follow her. -[4858.26 --> 4866.26] And the way they did it at Gallery 7 was a beautifully constructed, precarious trip of places they could not know how to get. -[4867.26 --> 4869.26] And would never have been able to find on their own. -[4871.26 --> 4880.26] And they have to scale mountains that they could not possibly have scaled except for this tiny little goat path that they were led to by this lion that only one of them could see. -[4884.26 --> 4887.26] People of God, you are Lucy. -[4888.26 --> 4894.26] Or, you are Peter, Edmund, and Susan needing to follow a Lucy. -[4895.26 --> 4900.26] Either way, follow the one who says, I'm following after Christ. -[4900.26 --> 4906.26] That's how this community thing works in experiencing the presence of God. -[4907.26 --> 4909.26] You might not know which way to go. -[4909.26 --> 4910.26] But someone here does. -[4911.26 --> 4913.26] You might not know how to journey this path. -[4913.26 --> 4915.26] But someone here will journey it with you. -[4916.26 --> 4922.26] That's how we practice the presence of God together. -[4922.26 --> 4923.26] Together. -[4923.26 --> 4926.26] We follow after him. -[4926.26 --> 4937.26] And maybe your how today is trusting someone who knows when you don't. -[4937.26 --> 4949.26] In Ezekiel 3 and Jeremiah 15 and in Revelation 10, God says to the prophets and he says to John, -[4950.26 --> 4952.26] eat this scroll. -[4952.26 --> 4953.26] Take it in. -[4953.26 --> 4954.26] This is God's revelation of himself. -[4954.26 --> 4968.26] This is how God is making himself known to the world. -[4968.26 --> 4973.26] This is how we come to see God. -[4973.26 --> 4977.26] God's word is the how of our knowing him. -[4977.26 --> 4980.26] It's the primary way we come into his presence. -[4980.26 --> 4985.26] And so, for you to practice the presence must involve the practice of the word. -[4985.26 --> 4989.26] And so, how are you eating the word? -[4989.26 --> 4992.26] How are you devouring the word? -[4996.26 --> 4998.26] Let's continue this analogy. -[4999.26 --> 5009.26] If you wanted to survive, or maybe even if you wanted to thrive, how many meals a week would you eat? -[5010.26 --> 5012.26] Someone do the math. -[5012.26 --> 5014.26] 21? -[5015.26 --> 5016.26] Roughly? -[5016.26 --> 5020.26] Probably like 15 for those of us who skip a meal or two here and there. -[5021.26 --> 5023.26] But never only twice. -[5024.26 --> 5025.26] Never only once. -[5026.26 --> 5029.26] How many of us are eating the word only once a week? -[5030.26 --> 5031.26] And we hope to survive? -[5032.26 --> 5033.26] We hope to thrive? -[5033.26 --> 5047.26] If the only time you crack your Bible is when you come to church, it's going to be real hard to experience the presence of God. -[5047.26 --> 5054.26] If the only time you practice presence in community is when you're sitting here on Sunday. -[5054.26 --> 5055.26] And please, don't hear what I'm not saying. -[5056.26 --> 5057.26] Sit here on Sunday. -[5058.26 --> 5060.26] Right? If that's going to be your only time, let it be a good time. -[5061.26 --> 5062.26] Let it be a full time. -[5062.26 --> 5064.26] Let it be a time where you feast on his word. -[5064.26 --> 5068.26] But it's never going to be enough on its own. -[5069.26 --> 5071.26] Eat this word. -[5071.26 --> 5073.26] Practice the presence of God. -[5074.26 --> 5075.26] Right? -[5075.26 --> 5077.26] And not just here, but in the presence of other believers. -[5077.26 --> 5079.26] We talked about care groups earlier in announcements. -[5079.26 --> 5085.26] Get connected with people because that is how God gets connected with us. -[5086.26 --> 5095.26] And then lastly, as we land this plane together, another way we practice the presence is through this Lord's Supper that we're about to come to. -[5096.26 --> 5098.26] This meal that he has given us. -[5099.26 --> 5103.26] This bread and this cup become for us the body and the blood of Jesus. -[5103.26 --> 5105.26] We take him in. -[5105.26 --> 5108.26] The Gospel of John opens by saying, -[5108.26 --> 5112.26] In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. -[5112.26 --> 5114.26] He was with God in the beginning. -[5114.26 --> 5116.26] And then in verse 14, he writes, -[5117.26 --> 5120.26] The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. -[5120.26 --> 5122.26] Jesus is the Word of God. -[5123.26 --> 5126.26] Jesus is the fullest revelation of God that we have. -[5126.26 --> 5130.26] Jesus who came and lived the life I should have lived and died the death that I deserve. -[5130.26 --> 5133.26] Jesus who was raised victorious over sin and death. -[5133.26 --> 5136.26] Three days later, this same Jesus says to us, -[5136.26 --> 5144.26] Those who eat my flesh and drink my blood have eternal life and I will raise them up on the last day. -[5144.26 --> 5147.26] We devour the Word in daily devotion. -[5147.26 --> 5151.26] We eat the scroll when we come to the table. -[5152.26 --> 5154.26] May this be part of your how. -[5154.26 --> 5159.26] And that changes our approach to suffering. -[5159.26 --> 5164.26] Because Jesus embraced his suffering for your sake. -[5164.26 --> 5167.26] And now he invites you to embrace suffering for his. -[5168.26 --> 5172.26] Brother Lawrence comes back to this idea. -[5172.26 --> 5175.26] And he says, -[5175.26 --> 5183.26] Pains and suffering would be a paradise to me while I should suffer with my God. -[5184.26 --> 5190.26] And the greatest pleasure would be hell to me if I could relish them without him. -[5190.26 --> 5197.26] Suffering with God changes them. -[5197.26 --> 5204.26] Having all you could ever ask for without God changes that too. -[5205.26 --> 5207.26] Now you might hear that and you go, -[5207.26 --> 5208.26] Yeah, you know what pastor? -[5208.26 --> 5209.26] He's a monk. -[5209.26 --> 5211.26] And it was the 17th century. -[5211.26 --> 5213.26] Life was different then. -[5213.26 --> 5215.26] How could, it would be easier for him to be like, -[5215.26 --> 5216.26] All I have is Jesus. -[5216.26 --> 5218.26] All I need is Jesus. -[5218.26 --> 5221.26] He doesn't know what it's like to raise four kids. -[5221.26 --> 5228.26] He doesn't know what it's like to drive those four kids from one soccer event to another hockey event to a summer baseball camp. -[5228.26 --> 5231.26] He doesn't know what my life is like. -[5233.26 --> 5234.26] And you're right. -[5235.26 --> 5236.26] He doesn't. -[5237.26 --> 5239.26] But maybe again, as we think about how. -[5239.26 --> 5247.26] Maybe your how is better understood in the choices you make. -[5247.26 --> 5251.26] The small, simple, daily choices you make. -[5254.26 --> 5260.26] Recently, it came to my attention, my self-awareness, -[5261.26 --> 5263.26] that every morning when I woke up, -[5263.26 --> 5271.26] the first thing I would do was reach over and grab my phone and look at social media. -[5272.26 --> 5275.26] Now I trust that most of you are better at life than I am. -[5276.26 --> 5278.26] But I'm sure some of you can relate to what I'm talking about. -[5279.26 --> 5280.26] What emails did I miss? -[5281.26 --> 5282.26] What texts have come in? -[5282.26 --> 5284.26] What's this person up to? -[5284.26 --> 5287.26] The first thing I did was go to social media. -[5288.26 --> 5290.26] And I asked myself, -[5293.26 --> 5295.26] Is this really the way I want to start my day? -[5296.26 --> 5300.26] Is this really the priority I want to take in my life? -[5301.26 --> 5303.26] Is this how I want to set up the rest of my day? -[5303.26 --> 5311.72] for the last few months I have been intentionally practicing a different discipline and so now -[5311.72 --> 5317.00] when my alarm goes off the first thing I do before I even put my foot down out of bed is I start -[5317.00 --> 5326.18] praying and I spend five or ten minutes praying. Now sometimes I fall back asleep sure but I wake -[5326.18 --> 5335.16] up again and I continue praying and intentionally I'm not picking up the phone but I'm diving in to -[5335.16 --> 5343.14] the presence of God and I'm asking if I can start my day differently and if that will set an agenda -[5343.14 --> 5349.60] for the rest of it and I'm still learning but I gotta tell you it's a different way to start. -[5349.60 --> 5358.08] That's a small choice. Just a small choice. Maybe that's your how. What is your small choice? -[5358.74 --> 5366.46] Practice the presence of God by coming to receive his word, by eating the scroll, coming into his -[5366.46 --> 5370.52] presence at the table and in community and in fellowship -[5370.52 --> 5379.82] and you will see that the Lord is your refuge and your strength in times of trouble. Psalm 9. -[5380.94 --> 5390.30] That as we have prayed our times are in his hands. Psalm 31. And that you can trust him at all times. -[5391.04 --> 5399.30] Psalm 62. May this word and this sacrament be for you an experience of God's presence among us no -[5399.30 --> 5406.84] matter where you are, where you come from or what trial you are in the midst of. And so now let's come -[5406.84 --> 5418.30] to the table as a place where God's presence is confirmed among us. This is our prayer. This is our -[5418.30 --> 5428.32] praise from word and now to sacrament that we may be before the face of our God. And to that end -[5428.32 --> 5446.32] I will pray. Let's pray together. Lord, our God, meet us at this table even as you have met us in your word, -[5446.32 --> 5454.94] even as you have gathered us up in your presence, even as you go with us into the week ahead. -[5454.94 --> 5463.46] May we practice the presence of God. And so God, I pray that on our hearts today, -[5463.66 --> 5473.26] you would lay maybe just one small choice as we consider how we might practice your presence -[5473.26 --> 5476.90] among us. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. -[5481.78 --> 5488.62] As we come to the table, we come invited by our God. We come to meet him here. And so we will have -[5488.62 --> 5494.66] a liturgy of our practice together that will be responsive. I invite you to follow along on the -[5494.66 --> 5501.04] screen and speak those words that are spoken, indicated for you. I believe they're in yellow behind me. -[5501.04 --> 5512.38] Lift up your hearts. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. Let's pray. -[5512.38 --> 5522.88] With joy, we praise you, gracious God. For you have created heaven and earth. You've made us in your -[5522.88 --> 5529.38] image and you have kept covenant with us even when we fell into sin. We give you thanks for Jesus Christ, -[5529.38 --> 5538.42] who by his life, death, and resurrection opened to us the way of life everlasting. And so meet us here, -[5538.42 --> 5542.18] we pray in Jesus' name. Amen. -[5546.86 --> 5551.98] The bread that we break is a sharing in the body of Christ. -[5551.98 --> 5581.80] Jesus said, I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, -[5581.80 --> 5590.56] and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. Those who wish to serve him must first be served by him. -[5591.24 --> 5595.48] And those who want to follow him must first be led and fed by him. -[5596.48 --> 5600.08] For this is the table where God intends us to be nourished. -[5600.48 --> 5603.14] This is the time when Christ can make us new. -[5603.14 --> 5609.46] And so come, you who hunger and thirst for a deeper faith, for a better life, for a fairer world. -[5609.90 --> 5617.02] Jesus Christ, who met us in the word, now invites us to be guests at his table. -[5617.02 --> 5626.10] As we come to the table, I'm going to invite you to share and profess our shared faith together by reciting the Apostles' Creed. -[5626.10 --> 5628.00] So I'm going to ask that you might stand. -[5631.32 --> 5637.18] And we're going to say the words of the Apostles' Creed, which has been a testimony of faith in the Christian church -[5637.18 --> 5643.36] for some time since the 3rd or 4th century, since the 8th century, in the form that we have it here. -[5643.36 --> 5648.20] We are not only professing our union with Christ in these words, -[5648.38 --> 5653.38] but our connection to the historic and traditional Christian church in these words. -[5653.50 --> 5657.54] And so for those of you who believe, we say together, -[5658.20 --> 5663.52] I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. -[5664.20 --> 5667.94] I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, -[5668.96 --> 5672.78] received by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary. -[5673.36 --> 5678.22] He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. -[5679.00 --> 5680.20] He descended into hell. -[5680.96 --> 5683.60] The third day, he rose again from the dead. -[5684.22 --> 5689.34] He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of God, the Father Almighty. -[5690.06 --> 5693.26] From there, he will come to judge the living and the dead. -[5693.26 --> 5702.32] I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, -[5702.84 --> 5706.40] the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. -[5707.22 --> 5707.54] Amen. -[5708.54 --> 5709.14] You may be seated. -[5709.14 --> 5717.10] If this is your profession, whether you are here with us or joining us online, -[5717.10 --> 5721.30] you are invited to the table of our Lord. -[5722.10 --> 5725.98] These are the gifts of God for the people of God. -[5725.98 --> 5730.96] As we come to the table here at Emmanuel, we do this in a particular way. -[5731.12 --> 5735.92] And so we experience the presence of God by standing in the presence of his people. -[5736.46 --> 5738.74] And so we will come forward in groups. -[5738.90 --> 5742.30] There will be ushers who indicate which row comes forward. -[5742.58 --> 5745.46] We will gather in a circle around the table together. -[5745.46 --> 5750.16] As you pass the bread to the person to your left or right, -[5750.28 --> 5753.20] I invite you to say the body of Christ given for you. -[5753.56 --> 5756.92] As you pass the juice, again, to the person to your left or right, -[5757.00 --> 5760.02] I invite you to say the blood of Christ shed for you. -[5761.10 --> 5768.10] In this way, we together speak the presence of God and be the presence of God to one another. -[5768.88 --> 5773.68] If you are in need of gluten-free service for preference, -[5773.68 --> 5777.98] there is a few pieces in the middle of each tray that are kept set out. -[5778.44 --> 5782.96] If you would like to receive gluten-free for more than preference, -[5783.04 --> 5785.86] if you're celiac or something, we have something fully separate to the side -[5785.86 --> 5788.20] for you to be able to take from there. -[5788.82 --> 5792.40] And we serve only juice here at Emmanuel as well. -[5793.50 --> 5798.14] I'm going to invite the elders and the worship team to come forward, -[5798.24 --> 5799.22] the back-of-house people. -[5799.22 --> 5805.58] We will serve them first so that they can serve us by leading in worship and song -[5805.58 --> 5808.44] as the rest of us come to this table together. -[5812.78 --> 5816.34] Additionally, if you would like to meet someone for prayer, -[5816.66 --> 5822.48] either during or before coming to the table or in spite or lieu of coming to the table, -[5822.98 --> 5826.74] there will be people in the foyer at the back with yellow name tags on -[5826.74 --> 5828.76] who would love to meet you for prayer there. -[5837.64 --> 5839.18] Body of Christ given for you. -[5842.34 --> 5843.68] Body of Christ given for you. -[5843.68 --> 5843.70] Body of Christ given for you. -[5856.74 --> 5867.64] Body of Christ given for you. -[5869.64 --> 5871.44] Body of Christ given for you. -[5871.44 --> 5872.62] Thanks be to God. -[5877.10 --> 5878.78] Eat and remember. -[5878.78 --> 5879.40] ogi's body of Christ. -[5890.26 --> 5891.62] Blood of Christ, shed for you. -[5892.78 --> 5896.60] Blood of Christ, shed for you. -[5896.60 --> 5926.58] Thank you. -[5926.60 --> 5940.18] Drink and believe. -[5940.18 --> 5943.74] Amen. -[5956.60 --> 5974.98] Good morning. -[5975.76 --> 5976.20] Hey, buddy. -[5976.20 --> 5978.20] Amen. -[5978.20 --> 5980.20] Amen. -[5980.20 --> 5982.20] Amen. -[5982.20 --> 5984.20] Amen. -[5984.20 --> 5985.20] Amen. -[5985.20 --> 5986.20] Amen. -[5986.20 --> 5988.20] Amen. -[5988.20 --> 5990.20] Amen. -[5990.20 --> 5991.20] Amen. -[5991.20 --> 5992.20] Amen. -[5992.20 --> 5993.20] Amen. -[5993.20 --> 5994.20] Amen. -[5994.20 --> 5995.20] Amen. -[5995.20 --> 6002.20] Behold the Lamb who bears our sins away, save for us. -[6002.20 --> 6004.20] Amen. -[6004.20 --> 6005.20] Amen. -[6005.20 --> 6020.20] And we remember the promise made that all who come in faith find forgiveness at the dawn. -[6020.20 --> 6047.20] So we share in this bread of life and we dream of His sacrifice as a sign of our arms of peace around the table of peace. -[6047.20 --> 6048.20] Amen. -[6048.20 --> 6049.20] Amen. -[6049.20 --> 6050.20] Amen. -[6050.20 --> 6051.20] Amen. -[6051.20 --> 6052.20] Amen. -[6052.20 --> 6055.20] Amen. -[6055.20 --> 6056.20] Amen. -[6056.20 --> 6057.20] Amen. -[6057.20 --> 6058.20] Amen. -[6058.20 --> 6060.20] Amen. -[6060.20 --> 6062.20] Amen. -[6062.20 --> 6072.20] Amen. -[6072.20 --> 6074.20] remember -[6074.20 --> 6080.20] those that heal the death that brings us life -[6080.20 --> 6086.20] make a God to make us one -[6086.20 --> 6090.20] so we share -[6090.20 --> 6094.20] in this bread of life -[6094.20 --> 6100.20] and we dream of his sacrifice -[6100.20 --> 6104.20] as a sign -[6104.20 --> 6108.20] of our bonds of love -[6108.20 --> 6114.20] around the table of the King -[6114.20 --> 6128.20] the blood that cleanses -[6128.20 --> 6130.20] every stain of -[6130.20 --> 6132.20] sin -[6132.20 --> 6134.20] shed for you -[6134.20 --> 6140.20] drink and remember -[6140.20 --> 6146.20] he drink as cup that all may enter in -[6146.20 --> 6152.20] to receive the life of God -[6152.20 --> 6156.20] so we share -[6156.20 --> 6158.20] in this bread of life -[6158.20 --> 6160.20] and we dream -[6160.20 --> 6164.20] of his sacrifice -[6164.20 --> 6166.20] as a sign -[6166.20 --> 6168.20] as a sign -[6168.20 --> 6172.20] of our bonds of grace -[6172.20 --> 6178.20] around the table of the King -[6178.20 --> 6194.20] and so with thankfulness -[6194.20 --> 6196.20] and faith -[6196.20 --> 6198.20] we rise -[6198.20 --> 6200.20] to respond -[6200.20 --> 6206.20] and to remember -[6206.20 --> 6208.20] our call to follow -[6208.20 --> 6212.20] in the steps of Christ -[6212.20 --> 6214.20] as we draw -[6214.20 --> 6216.20] in the peace of heaven -[6216.20 --> 6218.20] around the table of the King -[6218.20 --> 6220.20] and we'll join -[6220.20 --> 6222.20] in the peace of heaven -[6222.20 --> 6224.20] in his suffering -[6224.20 --> 6226.20] in his suffering -[6226.20 --> 6228.20] we proclaim -[6228.20 --> 6230.20] Christ will come again -[6230.20 --> 6232.20] and we'll join -[6232.20 --> 6234.20] in the peace of heaven -[6234.20 --> 6236.20] in the peace of heaven -[6236.20 --> 6238.20] in the peace of heaven -[6238.20 --> 6240.20] around the table of the King -[6240.20 --> 6242.20] in the peace of heaven -[6242.20 --> 6244.20] around the table of the King -[6244.20 --> 6250.20] is -[6274.20 --> 6276.20] Amen. -[6304.20 --> 6310.20] We have lost the awe of you. -[6312.20 --> 6318.20] Have mercy, have mercy. -[6320.20 --> 6333.20] O Lord, bless our hearts which are divided. -[6334.20 --> 6341.20] Stir the faith that we once knew. -[6342.20 --> 6349.20] We're thirsty, we're thirsty. -[6350.20 --> 6363.20] O Lord, restore the church that bears your name. -[6364.20 --> 6378.20] O Spirit, send a revival to this nation. -[6378.20 --> 6385.20] Breathe on us again. -[6385.20 --> 6391.20] Breathe on us again. -[6391.20 --> 6406.20] Oh, Lord, forgive us. -[6406.20 --> 6413.20] We have lost the awe of you. -[6413.20 --> 6420.20] Have mercy, have mercy. -[6420.20 --> 6422.20] We have mercy, have mercy. -[6422.20 --> 6435.20] Oh, Lord, bless our hearts which are divided. -[6435.20 --> 6442.20] Stir the faith that we once knew. -[6442.20 --> 6445.20] We have mercy, have mercy. -[6445.20 --> 6449.20] We have mercy, have mercy. -[6449.20 --> 6451.20] We have mercy, have mercy. -[6451.20 --> 6464.20] Oh, Lord, restore the church that bears your name. -[6464.20 --> 6466.20] Oh, Lord, bless our hearts which are divided. -[6466.20 --> 6467.20] We have mercy, have mercy. -[6467.20 --> 6468.20] We have mercy, have mercy. -[6468.20 --> 6469.20] We have mercy, have mercy, have mercy. -[6469.20 --> 6489.20] Restain -[6489.20 --> 6506.48] Oh Lord, restore the church that bears your name. -[6506.48 --> 6520.74] Oh Spirit, send a revival to this nation. -[6520.74 --> 6526.86] Breathe on us again. -[6529.18 --> 6535.06] Breathe on us again. -[6536.48 --> 6566.46] Breathe on us again. -[6566.48 --> 6576.92] Oh, to see the dawn of the darkest day. -[6576.92 --> 6584.36] Christ on the road to Calvary. -[6584.36 --> 6600.36] Drive by sinful men, torn in meat of them, nailed to a cross of wood. -[6600.36 --> 6608.36] This is the power of the cross. -[6608.36 --> 6616.36] Christ became sin for us. -[6616.36 --> 6624.20] Took the blame for the wrath of grace. -[6624.20 --> 6630.20] And forgiven at the cross. -[6630.20 --> 6643.46] Oh, to see the pain written on your face. -[6643.46 --> 6673.46] -[6673.46 --> 6680.74] Christ became sin for us. -[6680.90 --> 6683.90] Took the blame. -[6683.90 --> 6685.90] For the wrath of grace. -[6685.90 --> 6691.90] For the wrath we stand for you to have the wrong. -[6691.90 --> 6701.90] Now the daylight gleams. -[6701.90 --> 6703.90] Now the ground beneath. -[6703.90 --> 6705.90] Now the ground beneath. -[6705.90 --> 6709.90] Quakes as its paper. -[6709.90 --> 6711.90] Thou's in a slain. -[6711.90 --> 6713.90] Thou's in a slain. -[6713.90 --> 6717.90] Curved of torn and tomb. -[6717.90 --> 6719.90] Thou's in a slain. -[6719.90 --> 6721.90] Thou's in a slain. -[6721.90 --> 6723.90] Thou's in a slain. -[6723.90 --> 6729.90] Thou's sang in a slain. -[6729.90 --> 6735.90] Together Paul Shen you will slam in a slain. -[6735.90 --> 6739.90] Thou's in a slain. -[6739.90 --> 6743.90] That the Lord shall give God bless you to live the autumn. -[6743.90 --> 6745.90] Thou's in a slain. -[6746.90 --> 6748.90] Thou's in a slain. -[6748.90 --> 6749.90] Thou's Bh – Thou's in a slain. -[6749.90 --> 6755.66] Stand forgiven at the cross. -[6779.90 --> 6809.88] Stand forgiven at the cross. -[6809.90 --> 6819.26] The cross, Lamb of God, by His own betrayal. -[6821.52 --> 6834.36] The sin of man and wrath of God has been on Jesus' name. -[6834.36 --> 6836.36] Stand forgiven at the cross. -[6836.36 --> 6841.36] Stand forgiven at the cross. -[6841.36 --> 6843.36] Stand forgiven at the cross. -[6843.36 --> 6847.36] Stand forgiven at the cross. -[6847.36 --> 6853.36] He turned locked and scorned. -[6853.36 --> 6865.36] Vowing to the Father's will, He took a crown of gold. -[6865.36 --> 6879.36] Oh, that rugged cross, my salvation, where Your love poured out over me. -[6879.36 --> 6893.36] Now my soul cries out, Hallelujah, Praise and Honor unto Thee. -[6893.36 --> 6909.36] Send of heaven, God's own Son, to purchase and redeem. -[6909.36 --> 6924.36] And reconcile the very ones who nailed Him to that tree. -[6924.36 --> 6937.36] Oh, that rugged cross, my salvation, where Your love poured out over me. -[6937.36 --> 6951.36] Now my soul cries out, Hallelujah, Praise and Honor unto Thee. -[6951.36 --> 6958.36] Now my debt is paid. -[6958.36 --> 6969.36] It is paid in full by the precious blood that my Jesus spilled. -[6969.36 --> 6976.36] Now the curse of sin has no hold on me. -[6976.36 --> 6978.36] Now the curse of sin has no hold on me. -[6978.36 --> 6983.36] Whom the Son sets free, O it's free indeed. -[6983.36 --> 6986.36] Now my debt is paid. -[6986.36 --> 6996.36] It is paid in full by the precious blood that my Jesus spilled. -[6996.36 --> 7003.36] Now the curse of sin has no hold on me. -[7003.36 --> 7010.36] Whom the Son sets free, O it's free indeed. -[7010.36 --> 7023.36] Oh, that rugged cross, my salvation, where Your love poured out over me. -[7023.36 --> 7039.36] Now my soul cries out, Hallelujah, Praise and Honor unto Thee. -[7039.36 --> 7052.36] See the stone is rolled away, Behold the empty tomb. -[7052.36 --> 7057.36] Alleluia, Hallelujah, Praise and Honor unto Thee. -[7057.36 --> 7058.36] unveil beg, If God is paid. -[7058.36 --> 7060.36] Woo thank God, My glory. -[7060.36 --> 7062.36] Thee. -[7062.36 --> 7076.36] is -[7092.36 --> 7117.72] may i just say thank you for feasting with us this morning as you go take the joy and strength -[7117.72 --> 7127.80] of this feast with you as you go know that god himself goes with you lastly know that we are not -[7127.80 --> 7137.80] dismissed from here but we are sent from here to be god's presence in the world receive his greeting -[7137.80 --> 7146.36] or his blessing for that journey god go before you to lead you god go behind you to protect you -[7147.00 --> 7155.48] god go beneath you to support you and god go beside you to befriend you do not be afraid let the -[7155.48 --> 7164.68] blessing of god come upon you today do not be afraid but go in peace as his presence to love -[7164.68 --> 7174.36] and serve the lord amen -[7176.36 --> 7191.88] go -[7191.88 --> 7205.88] is -[7222.04 --> 7234.12] uh -[7234.60 --> 7237.96] uh -[7239.80 --> 7247.88] um -[7251.88 --> 7265.88] is -[7281.88 --> 7295.88] oh -[7311.88 --> 7325.88] thanks -[7341.88 --> 7355.88] is -[7371.88 --> 7373.88] Oh -[7401.88 --> 7403.88] Oh -[7431.88 --> 7433.88] Oh -[7441.88 --> 7443.88] Oh -[7461.88 --> 7463.88] Oh -[7491.88 --> 7493.88] Oh -[7521.88 --> 7523.88] Oh -[7551.88 --> 7553.88] Oh -[7581.88 --> 7583.88] Oh -[7611.88 --> 7613.88] Oh -[7641.88 --> 7643.88] Oh -[7646.88 --> 7647.88] Oh -[7648.88 --> 7649.88] Oh -[7649.88 --> 7651.88] Oh -[7651.88 --> 7653.88] Oh -[7653.88 --> 7655.88] Oh -[7661.88 --> 7663.88] Oh -[7671.88 --> 7701.86] Thank you. -[7701.88 --> 7731.86] Thank you. -[7731.88 --> 7761.86] Thank you. -[7761.88 --> 7791.86] Thank you. -[7791.88 --> 7821.86] Thank you. -[7821.88 --> 7851.86] Thank you. -[7851.88 --> 7881.86] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, November 17, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, November 17, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0773c5f622e13b4d8cd6ab8a44f59148869b0ea7..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, November 17, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,111 +0,0 @@ -• Announcements for the youth and adult meetings on HCBC (Heidelberg Catechism, Belgic Confession) tonight -• Sign-up reminder for the Christmas Ladies event, including decorating tables and encouraging husbands to help reset the church -• Discussion of a missions trip to the Philippines in June 2025 with Gateway Community Church -• Description of the mission work being done by a CRC pastor in the Philippines who is bringing the gospel to unreached communities -• Invitation to young adults or females to join the mission trip and fill an available spot. -• Introduction to Christianity Explored class on Thursday at 6 p.m. -• Call to worship based on Psalm 18, verses 1 and 2 -• Invitation to come to Jesus for salvation and forgiveness -• Confession of sin and request for mercy and forgiveness -• Prayer for cleansing from sin, renewal, and restoration -• Prayer for a clean heart and renewed spirit -• Lyrics to "Amazing Grace" sung multiple times with varying repetitions -• Repetition of phrases such as "My chains are gone, I've been set free" -• Declaration of faith in Jesus Christ's power to heal and forgive -• Statements affirming Jesus' divinity and sacrifice for humanity -• Budget deficit of $100,000 due to 20% shortfall in budget-to-date giving -• Special offering for World Renew and Canadian Food Grains Bank to combat world hunger -• Matching funds available for donations to Canadian Food Grains Bank -• Hymn about the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ, referencing his wounds paying ransom -• Invitation for children to join the speaker on stage, with an introduction to a sleepy dog named Hank -• Discussion about what "Sniffs" stands for -• Help in finding missing items (such as socks) -• Upcoming children's worship time, discussing what it means to help people -• Prayer and discussion about the day's events -• Congregational meeting announcement, moved to December 1st -• Tri-Soup Challenge and possible competition for John Fulkert's championship -• Prayer for church leaders and staff -• Prayers for growth in faith, good works, and evidence of this growth within the church -• Prayers for community members in need, including the sick, grieving, and lonely -• Requests for comfort and healing for specific individuals, such as Ernst de Vries' family and Ashley during chemo treatment -• Prayers for those battling addiction, anxiety, depression, or other burdens -• Request for God's presence among shut-ins and others who cannot attend in person -• Prayer for continued guidance and light through scripture, with a commitment to grow in understanding and living according to God's will -• Start of reading from Genesis 41, the story of Joseph -• The years of abundance in Egypt came to an end and famine began -• Joseph's family grew: two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, were born -• Famine spread throughout the land, but Egypt had food due to Joseph's planning -• Pharaoh told Egyptians to go to Joseph for food -• The famine was severe everywhere and people came to Egypt to buy grain from Joseph -• A story about Debbie, a woman who is struggling with cancer and faith, will be shared -• The story highlights God's work in Debbie's life despite her suffering -• The speaker's journey of faith and dependence on God -• Diagnosis of cancer and brain tumors, and subsequent treatment and radiation -• Learning to find true joy and contentment in all circumstances through spiritual gifts -• Humility and understanding of complete dependence on God through suffering -• Developing a daily conversational relationship with God -• The value and beauty of faithful suffering as exemplified by the speaker's story -• The importance of spiritual growth in one's life -• The value of living a life that honors God even in the face of suffering -• Interpreting scripture, specifically 1 Peter 4:13, to understand how to face suffering -• The reality of death and its impact on our perspective on life -• The story of Rachel and Josh, a couple struggling with infertility and their experiences with IVF and embryo implantation -• A family's infertility journey and struggles with adoption -• Josh and April's experience with multiple failed attempts to conceive -• The emotional impact of their struggles, including Josh saying "I think God hates me" -• The surprise adoption of a baby named Kaylin -• The birth of two more children through IVF and embryo adoption -• A dramatic turnaround from despair to gratitude for God's blessings -• The speaker married their partner a week after visiting the university -• They went on honeymoon to Cuba and returned with degrees and participated in graduation ceremonies -• A close friend was killed in a car crash, leading to a devastating moment for the group -• The group gathered together to mourn the loss of their friend and were led in prayer by the father of one of the friends -• The speaker felt pressure to be strong and help others cope with the tragedy, but eventually collapsed under the weight of grief -• A large group of friends traveled to Manitoba for the funeral and stayed together at a cousin's property -• The speaker discusses a past experience where there was a mix of emotions (laughter and tears) and how it brought them closer to God. -• Craig's family values the importance of getting to know his university friends and community, leading to a deeper understanding of their shared faith. -• A specific event is mentioned as a catalyst for the speaker's growth in their faith, showing that suffering and joy are part of the Christian experience. -• The speaker shares a personal story about receiving a disturbing phone call from a friend who had attempted suicide. -• They recall how an elder in the church responded to the crisis with prayer. -• A group of boys learned to pray together in a moment of brokenness and uncertainty -• The speaker's first Sunday as pastor was marked by a church fire caused by an oven mitt mishap -• The second Sunday saw the announcement of a 17-year-old boy from their community taking his own life, prompting the speaker to weep for those they didn't know -• God taught the speaker that He can give love for people you don't know, and that He makes love possible even when it's hard to feel -• Everyone in attendance likely has their own stories of loss, grief, and pain, including deaths, illnesses, and aging parents -• The way we share these stories matters, and is an important aspect of faith and community -• Seeds of sorrow can be planted and reap joy -• Properly sown tears bring joy -• It's possible to waste sorrows and not reap joy -• God turns suffering into joy through Jesus' sacrifice -• God's sovereignty gives meaning and purpose to suffering -• Only with God's sovereignty can one have hope that their suffering matters -• Joseph's sons are given names with meanings related to God's promise and fruitfulness -• Joseph's experience of suffering is transformed as he sees God working for good in his life -• The importance of sharing stories of seeing God at work, even if the outcome is not immediately visible or tangible -• The gospel guarantees that God can turn evil into good and bring beauty out of brokenness -• The speaker shares personal stories of how suffering can be turned into good -• God works with and uses suffering to reveal himself in glory -• Suffering can be used by God to bring great joy and triumph -• Not all people have stories of seeing good come out of struggles, but everyone suffers -• It's enough to know that God will turn suffering to good and his glory is ultimate -• Sharing stories is a way to practice and embody the truth that God brings good out of suffering -• The speaker discusses the practice of professional baseball players warming up with weighted bats -• A construction worker shares their experience of getting strong and fit through physical labor, but also benefits from regular exercise in a gym to make everyday lifting manageable -• The speaker reflects on the value of trusting God's plan and leaning into His guidance rather than seeking complete knowledge or control -• Frustration with understanding God's ways -• Citing 2 Corinthians 4, referencing the value of eternal glory over momentary troubles -• Discussing the importance of perspective in understanding troubles as light -• Mentioning the inclusion of eternity and God's glory in storytelling -• Emphasizing God's promise that present sufferings are not worth comparing to future glory -• Worship in the midst of suffering and trial -• Trusting God's word to define reality, not feelings or perceptions -• Sharing stories of faith and seeing God at work -• God's presence and blessing throughout life's journey -• Encouragement to tell stories of God's work and receive His blessing -• Repeating of the word "you" -• Statements about not being able to remember or do anything -• Claims of not being a slut (repeated multiple times) -• References to gates and celebrations -• Discussion of love, hunger, and feeding others -• Mention of Jesus and leading people home -• Reiteration of waiting for a future day of celebration \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, November 17, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, November 17, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2597bfd954865c01c602a0307a533dbb6116c3e6..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, November 17, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2081 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 122.00] Thank you. -[122.00 --> 130.00] Thank you. -[130.00 --> 132.00] Thank you. -[132.00 --> 136.00] Good morning. -[136.00 --> 138.00] Good morning. -[138.00 --> 140.62] Welcome into church this morning. -[140.74 --> 143.18] A special welcome if you are a guest with us. -[143.68 --> 144.36] My name is Chris. -[144.54 --> 146.08] I'm one of the pastors here. -[146.50 --> 155.52] And it's my privilege, along with these others you see, and a couple more that you don't yet see, to lead in our shared worship together this morning. -[156.24 --> 165.12] Before we begin, we have a couple announcements to make, and so I'm going to invite Leanne to come to the front, and Pastor Kevin is going to come to the front to make an announcement. -[165.30 --> 169.02] And as they are on their way up, I will start with the first one. -[169.02 --> 178.48] Tonight, we have HCBC, so Heidelberg Catechism, Belgic Confession, for the youth and for adults. -[178.94 --> 190.20] And so at 7 o'clock tonight, youth, you've got your meetings with Kevin and Josh, and then adults, you're invited to have a meeting with me as we read the catechism together. -[190.20 --> 195.54] So, Pastor Kevin wanted me to tell you, for the youth in particular, bring your own Bible. -[196.80 --> 200.28] And if you don't have a Bible, tell Pastor Kevin, and he'll get you one. -[201.20 --> 201.76] All right? -[201.88 --> 202.62] Bring your own Bible. -[203.00 --> 203.18] Okay. -[203.40 --> 203.92] You guys, go. -[204.62 --> 206.96] This is for the Christmas Ladies event. -[207.38 --> 211.98] This is the final week to sign up, so by next Sunday, we hope to have our final numbers in for women who are coming. -[212.50 --> 217.64] Currently, we're sitting at over 100 women and invited guests, so that's awesome, but we have room for lots more. -[217.64 --> 226.12] We also have several tables that don't have our creative souls there to decorate them, so if you'd like to decorate a table, we also have sign-up space for that. -[226.72 --> 234.56] And ladies, you're also invited to encourage your husbands to come pick you up after the event, so they can help us reset the church as well. -[234.68 --> 235.76] That would be great. -[235.90 --> 243.12] If you have questions, you can sign up on the bulletin, or you can see one of the members of the group at the back after the service. -[245.56 --> 246.42] Good morning, everyone. -[247.64 --> 261.26] About three or four months ago, I was approached by Marcel Direct from Gateway Community Church in Abbotsford, letting me know that they do a missions trip every February to the Philippines. -[262.06 --> 264.42] And he wanted to know if we would be able to join him in that. -[264.42 --> 276.52] And then, through the popularity of that trip, they've added a second trip in June for specifically the young adults or older of the church, because the young adults in the congregation, a lot of them are off to university and stuff. -[276.58 --> 279.16] They aren't able to go in February, so he started a second trip in June. -[279.16 --> 285.40] Now, this trip is a two-week trip, June 1 to 15, that they've invited our church to go to. -[285.50 --> 290.16] And Josh is going on this trip with two other young adults from our church. -[290.58 --> 293.30] And there is room for one more person to go. -[293.30 --> 304.48] Anybody can come and talk to us about that, but especially if you're a young adult or a female young adult, because McKelty's going and she wants a friend, you can come and talk to Josh and I. -[304.54 --> 307.20] Now, this trip, I want to give a little bit of details, too. -[307.20 --> 312.48] So, this trip, there is a CRC pastor in the Philippines who was pastoring a church just outside of Manila. -[313.00 --> 318.94] And during the pandemic, over 75% of his congregation passed away because of COVID. -[319.86 --> 335.42] When that happened, he was very troubled, of course, and he felt God calling him to continue to pastor this church, but also bring the gospel to communities in the Philippines that have never been reached or never been taught the gospel. -[335.42 --> 349.62] And so, he started doing that, and he has been going to all sorts of different islands in the Philippines to these nomadic tribes who, on the last trip, they gave this woman a mirror, and she was in her 70s, and she had never seen herself before. -[350.14 --> 357.88] So, these are the types of people that this pastor is bringing the gospel to, and this is the type of people that this missions trip is joining. -[357.88 --> 363.04] He's joining this pastor who's going to these islands for two weeks to bring the gospel. -[363.04 --> 370.86] And so, it's a very unique, very cool opportunity, and we are joining alongside Love Without Borders, I believe is what it's called. -[370.94 --> 375.10] Love Without Borders is the ministry, and we're joining alongside to bring the gospel to these people. -[375.18 --> 385.94] So, if you are anybody who's interested in going to the Philippines June 1 to 5, or June 1 to 15 in 2025, especially if you're a young adult, and maybe even more so if you're a female, -[385.94 --> 390.44] but we'll, honestly, anybody can apply. Come talk to myself, come talk to Josh. -[390.84 --> 394.66] We would love to have that position filled in the next month. -[394.76 --> 406.02] So, I know time's ticking, but that is an opportunity that is very unique, and I'm looking forward to seeing what God does with this little team from our church joining Gateway's missions team in June. -[406.44 --> 407.12] All right, thank you. -[407.12 --> 412.36] Awesome. We'll look forward to hearing more about that as well. -[413.42 --> 415.56] A couple more quick announcements. -[416.76 --> 428.28] On Tuesday night, November 19, there's another Safe Church Training event, and so some of you have probably been contacted about your need to participate in that, -[428.28 --> 434.94] but that is for everyone who works with children or vulnerable sector populations. -[434.94 --> 442.24] They're required by our Safe Church policy to have this training once every three years, and we keep a record of that. -[442.38 --> 448.20] And so, if that is you, or if you don't know if that is you, you can talk to my beautiful bride, Rachel. -[448.40 --> 453.78] She will answer the question, but you can join on Tuesday night for that event. -[453.78 --> 459.32] And elders, pastoral and admin elders, we are also meeting on Tuesday night. -[459.42 --> 460.74] Just a reminder that that is there. -[460.84 --> 462.68] We will meet at 6, starting with dinner. -[463.52 --> 473.60] And then last announcement, on Thursday at 6 p.m., we're going to have our next Christianity Explored class, which is Introduction to Christian Faith. -[474.18 --> 477.44] And so, if you've been participating in that, that's this week, Thursday. -[477.62 --> 483.06] We'll have dinner there as well, and encourage you to come along, invite your friends, join up. -[483.06 --> 486.62] If you haven't yet attended, but would be interested in coming, talk to me. -[486.88 --> 488.32] We'd love to incorporate you in that. -[490.20 --> 491.86] I think that's it for my announcements. -[491.96 --> 499.46] Let's stand together as we're gathered up into the presence of our God in shared worship this morning. -[499.96 --> 505.24] Following my giving the greeting to you, I'm going to invite you to turn to those around you -[505.24 --> 509.96] and to greet them in the name of the Lord, welcome them into his presence together. -[509.96 --> 518.24] Just a reminder, as we're entering into our in-cough, cold, and flu season, not everyone wants to shake hands or hugs. -[519.14 --> 521.84] And so, make eye contact first, ask for permission. -[522.36 --> 525.62] Anyway, interact well with each other is what I'm asking for here. -[526.06 --> 528.38] Let's receive the greeting of our good God. -[528.38 --> 537.12] Grace, mercy, and peace to you, from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, Son, and our Savior, -[537.54 --> 539.76] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[540.66 --> 541.00] Amen. -[558.38 --> 578.04] Good morning. -[580.32 --> 583.74] As we enter into a time of worship this morning, -[583.74 --> 588.36] we turn our eyes upon Jesus and worship him who loves us, -[588.76 --> 594.36] who knows our every need, our every care, and our every trial and sorrow, -[594.80 --> 597.60] and is always with us through it all. -[598.48 --> 604.18] With this in mind, our call to worship this morning is found in Psalm 18, verses 1 and 2. -[604.18 --> 607.90] I love you, Lord, my strength. -[608.54 --> 612.70] The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer. -[613.54 --> 616.64] My God is my rock in whom I take refuge, -[617.12 --> 621.52] my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. -[622.34 --> 623.68] Let's worship him together. -[623.68 --> 647.00] Come all you weary, come all you thirsty, -[647.46 --> 651.54] come to the world that never runs dry. -[651.54 --> 658.18] Drink of the water, come and thirst no more. -[660.40 --> 664.90] Come all you sinners, come find his mercy, -[665.40 --> 669.04] come to the table, he will satisfy. -[669.76 --> 675.32] Taste of his goodness, find what you're looking for. -[675.32 --> 683.18] For God so loved the world that he gave us, -[683.18 --> 687.72] His one and only Son to save us, -[687.72 --> 692.96] Who never believes in him will live forever. -[696.18 --> 700.94] Bring all your failures, bring your addictions, -[700.94 --> 705.44] Don't lay them down at the foot of the cross. -[705.44 --> 708.80] Jesus is waiting there, -[708.80 --> 711.80] You're going on. -[713.80 --> 719.16] For God so loved the world that he gave us, -[719.24 --> 723.64] His one and only Son to save us, -[723.70 --> 728.80] Who never believes in him will live forever. -[728.80 --> 736.66] The power of hell, forever you need, -[736.66 --> 741.06] Now it is well, the walking in freedom, -[741.38 --> 746.80] For God so loved, God so loved the world. -[746.80 --> 761.08] Praise God, praise God, praise God, -[761.08 --> 762.80] Praise God, praise God, praise God, -[762.80 --> 767.12] For the wonders of his love. -[767.60 --> 770.80] Praise God, praise God, -[770.80 --> 792.68] Praise God, praise God, praise him. -[792.68 --> 806.60] is -[822.68 --> 827.80] God so loved, God so loved the world. -[830.80 --> 835.60] Bring all your failures, bring your addictions, -[835.60 --> 840.18] come lay them down at the foot of the cross. -[840.38 --> 847.02] Jesus is waiting, God so loved the world. -[852.68 --> 854.68] Amen. -[882.68 --> 884.68] Amen. -[912.68 --> 914.68] Amen. -[942.68 --> 944.68] Amen. -[972.68 --> 974.68] Amen. -[974.68 --> 978.68] Amen. -[984.68 --> 988.68] Amen. -[988.68 --> 998.16] Oh Lord Jesus, oh -[998.16 --> 1006.30] Oh Lord Jesus, oh -[1018.68 --> 1022.00] Please bow with me in prayer. -[1026.44 --> 1035.30] Merciful God, you tell us and we believe that you forgive and pardon all who truly repent and turn to you. -[1037.10 --> 1047.04] As we take a few moments now in a time of silent and personal confession, we humbly confess that we have sinned and we ask for your mercy and forgiveness. -[1048.68 --> 1078.66] Thank you. -[1078.68 --> 1082.02] Dear God, -[1082.02 --> 1088.56] In your loving kindness and your great compassion, cleanse us from our sin. -[1089.66 --> 1092.10] Create in us a clean heart, oh Lord. -[1092.80 --> 1094.70] Renew a right spirit within us. -[1095.58 --> 1099.28] Do not cast us from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from us. -[1100.16 --> 1106.52] Lord, restore to us the joy of our salvation and sustain us with your bountiful spirit. -[1106.82 --> 1109.96] In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. -[1109.96 --> 1126.30] Create in me a clean heart, oh God. -[1126.30 --> 1132.64] And renew a right spirit within me. -[1132.64 --> 1143.30] Create in me a clean heart, oh God. -[1143.30 --> 1150.30] And renew a right spirit within me. -[1150.30 --> 1159.68] Cast me not away from thy presence, oh Lord. -[1159.68 --> 1161.68] And take my Holy Spirit from me. -[1161.68 --> 1166.68] And take my Holy Spirit from me. -[1166.68 --> 1175.68] Restore unto me the joy of our salvation. -[1175.68 --> 1182.68] And renew a right spirit within me. -[1182.68 --> 1183.68] And renew a right spirit within me. -[1183.68 --> 1192.68] Create in me a clean heart, oh God. -[1192.68 --> 1199.68] And renew a right spirit within me. -[1199.68 --> 1208.68] Create in me a clean heart, oh God. -[1208.68 --> 1214.68] And renew a right spirit within me. -[1214.68 --> 1218.68] Cast me not away from your life. -[1218.68 --> 1223.68] Cast me not away from thy presence, oh Lord. -[1223.68 --> 1227.68] And take my Holy Spirit from me. -[1227.68 --> 1235.68] And restore unto me the joy of our salvation. -[1235.68 --> 1241.68] The joy of knowing salvation -[1241.68 --> 1248.68] And reveal a right spirit within me -[1248.68 --> 1256.68] Pass me not away from thy presence, O Lord -[1256.68 --> 1263.68] And take not thy Holy Spirit from me -[1263.68 --> 1272.48] Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation -[1272.48 --> 1279.76] And renew a right spirit within me -[1279.76 --> 1287.64] Please rise for the next couple songs. -[1293.68 --> 1295.68] Amen. -[1323.68 --> 1329.68] That saved a wretch like me -[1329.68 --> 1336.68] I once was lost, but now am found -[1336.68 --> 1342.68] Was mine, but now I see -[1342.68 --> 1349.68] It's grace that taught my heart to hear -[1349.68 --> 1355.68] And grace my fears relieved -[1355.68 --> 1362.68] How precious did that grace appear -[1362.68 --> 1367.68] The hour I first believed -[1367.68 --> 1374.68] My chains are gone, I've been set free -[1374.68 --> 1380.68] My God, my Savior, has ransomed me -[1380.68 --> 1386.68] And why the blood is mercy made -[1386.68 --> 1393.68] On an ending love, amazing grace -[1393.68 --> 1403.68] The Lord has promised good to me -[1403.68 --> 1409.68] His word my hope secures -[1409.68 --> 1416.68] He will my shield and portion be -[1416.68 --> 1422.68] As long as life endures -[1422.68 --> 1429.68] Through many dangers, toils and snares -[1429.68 --> 1435.68] I have already come -[1435.68 --> 1439.68] His grace that taught me -[1439.68 --> 1441.68] He saved us far -[1441.68 --> 1447.68] And grace will lead me home -[1447.68 --> 1453.68] My chains are gone, I've been set free -[1453.68 --> 1459.68] My God, my Savior, has ransomed me -[1459.68 --> 1465.68] And why the blood is mercy made -[1465.68 --> 1472.68] On an ending love, amazing grace -[1472.68 --> 1482.68] When we've been there ten thousand years -[1482.68 --> 1484.68] Bright shining as the sun -[1484.68 --> 1488.68] Bright shining as the sun -[1488.68 --> 1495.68] We've no less days to sing God's praise -[1495.68 --> 1500.68] Than when we first begun -[1500.68 --> 1506.68] My chains are gone, I've been set free -[1506.68 --> 1512.68] My God, my Savior, has ransomed me -[1512.68 --> 1517.68] And why the blood is mercy made -[1517.68 --> 1518.68] My God, my Savior, has ransomed me -[1518.68 --> 1519.68] And why the blood is mercy made -[1519.68 --> 1523.68] My God, my Savior, has ransomed me -[1523.68 --> 1526.68] Amazing grace -[1526.68 --> 1532.68] My chains are gone, I've been set free -[1532.68 --> 1538.68] My God, my Savior, has ransomed me -[1538.68 --> 1544.68] And why the blood is mercy made -[1544.68 --> 1548.68] Amazing grace -[1548.68 --> 1553.68] Amazing grace -[1578.68 --> 1580.68] I believe in Jesus -[1580.68 --> 1582.68] I believe in Jesus -[1582.68 --> 1589.68] I believe He is the Son of God -[1589.68 --> 1595.68] I believe He died and rose again -[1595.68 --> 1601.68] I believe He paid for us all -[1601.68 --> 1607.68] I believe He is here now -[1607.68 --> 1610.68] Standing in our midst -[1610.68 --> 1613.68] Standing in our midst -[1613.68 --> 1617.68] With the power to heal now -[1617.68 --> 1622.68] And the grace to forgive -[1622.68 --> 1627.68] I believe in you, Lord -[1627.68 --> 1630.68] I believe in you, Lord -[1630.68 --> 1636.68] I believe you are the Son of God -[1636.68 --> 1641.68] I believe you died and rose again -[1641.68 --> 1646.68] I believe you paid for us all -[1646.68 --> 1651.68] I believe you are here now -[1651.68 --> 1656.68] Standing in our midst -[1656.68 --> 1659.68] And made in our midst -[1659.68 --> 1660.68] And made in our midst -[1660.68 --> 1666.68] Here with the power to heal now -[1666.68 --> 1669.68] And the grace to forgive -[1669.68 --> 1670.68] I believe in you, Lord -[1670.68 --> 1672.68] I believe you are the Son of God -[1672.68 --> 1676.68] I believe you died and rose again -[1676.68 --> 1681.68] I believe you paid for us all -[1681.68 --> 1688.68] I believe you died and rose again -[1688.68 --> 1691.68] I believe you paid for us all -[1691.68 --> 1692.68] I believe you died and rose again -[1692.68 --> 1694.68] I believe you paid for us all -[1694.68 --> 1696.68] I believe you are here now -[1696.68 --> 1698.68] I believe you are here now -[1698.68 --> 1699.68] I believe you are here now -[1699.68 --> 1701.68] I believe you are here now -[1701.68 --> 1703.68] Standing in our midst -[1703.68 --> 1707.68] Standing in our midst -[1707.68 --> 1709.68] Here with the power to heal now -[1709.68 --> 1712.68] The power to heal now -[1712.68 --> 1713.68] The power to heal now -[1713.68 --> 1718.68] We have the grace to forgive -[1718.68 --> 1733.68] Your heart to heal now -[1733.68 --> 1737.68] The power to heal now -[1737.68 --> 1738.68] The power to heal now -[1738.68 --> 1741.68] Good morning -[1741.68 --> 1742.68] My name is Brenda -[1742.68 --> 1744.68] I'm one of the deacons here at Emanuel -[1744.68 --> 1751.36] It's a time for our offerings today, and our first offering is for the budget and ministries -[1751.36 --> 1755.92] of this church, and I have just a little note to highlight here. -[1755.92 --> 1763.14] You can see in the bulletin the deficit that we have at the end of this year. -[1763.14 --> 1767.06] We are about 20% behind in our budget-to-date giving. -[1767.06 --> 1770.34] That works out to about $100,000. -[1770.34 --> 1774.90] We know this trend is normal by this time of year, but we are slightly higher in our -[1774.90 --> 1777.56] deficit than previous years. -[1777.56 --> 1783.60] We ask you to prayerfully consider how you might give in support of the ministry and mission -[1783.60 --> 1786.06] of Langley Emanuel. -[1786.06 --> 1790.86] God has blessed many people through our work together, and we pray that he would continue -[1790.86 --> 1795.02] to do that through your generous support. -[1795.02 --> 1798.08] So that's for our budget and ministries. -[1798.08 --> 1807.04] Our special offering today is for World Renew, and specifically the Canadian Food Grains Bank. -[1807.04 --> 1812.80] Canadian Food Grains Bank, it's a partnership of 15 Canadian churches and church-based agencies -[1812.80 --> 1817.90] working together to end world hunger. -[1817.90 --> 1826.86] They officially began in 1983, but their roots are back to the 1970s. -[1826.86 --> 1833.50] It is rooted in the belief that all are created in the image of God, and that it is God's desire -[1833.50 --> 1837.14] that no person should go hungry. -[1837.14 --> 1843.86] World Renew is one of the founding members of the Canadian Food Grains Bank. -[1843.86 --> 1849.14] They work with locally-based organizations in developing countries to meet emergency food -[1849.14 --> 1856.24] needs, to foster long-term solutions, and to work with government agencies to support this -[1856.24 --> 1857.60] cause. -[1857.60 --> 1861.70] And donations that are received are matched four to one. -[1861.70 --> 1863.70] Let's give as the Lord has blessed us. -[1863.70 --> 1864.70] Let's give as the Lord has blessed us. -[1864.70 --> 1868.70] Let's give as the Lord has blessed us. -[1868.70 --> 1894.62] Father's mistakes is -[1894.62 --> 1894.82] Eunice the father's love over you. -[1894.82 --> 1900.28] How deep the Father's love for us. -[1900.28 --> 1905.28] How vast beyond all measure. -[1906.56 --> 1911.94] That he would give his only Son. -[1912.60 --> 1917.34] To make a wretch his treasure. -[1918.98 --> 1924.60] How great the pain of stealing was. -[1924.82 --> 1930.34] The Father turns his face away. -[1931.16 --> 1936.54] As wounds which bore the Chosen One. -[1937.10 --> 1941.56] Bring many sons to glory. -[1941.56 --> 1958.52] Behold the man upon a cross. -[1958.90 --> 1963.64] I sit upon his shoulders. -[1963.64 --> 1969.64] Ashamed I hear my knocking noise. -[1971.16 --> 1975.64] All loud among the scoffers. -[1975.64 --> 1981.64] It was like sin that held it there. -[1983.16 --> 1987.64] Until it was accomplished. -[1989.24 --> 1993.64] His dying breath has brought me life. -[1993.64 --> 1999.78] I know that it is fitting. -[1999.78 --> 2015.72] I will not boast in anything. -[2015.72 --> 2021.48] No gifts, no powers, no wisdom. -[2022.06 --> 2028.58] But I will boast in Jesus Christ. -[2029.06 --> 2033.38] His death and resurrection. -[2033.38 --> 2039.38] Why should I gain from his reward? -[2039.38 --> 2045.38] I cannot give an answer. -[2045.38 --> 2052.38] But this I know with all my heart. -[2052.38 --> 2057.76] His wounds have paid my ransom. -[2057.76 --> 2087.74] His wounds have paid my ransom. -[2087.74 --> 2091.88] His wounds have paid my ransom. -[2091.88 --> 2092.80] His wounds have paid my ransom. -[2092.86 --> 2095.64] His wounds have paid my ransom. -[2095.70 --> 2097.52] My wounds have paid my ransom. -[2097.52 --> 2101.20] I would love to invite all of the kids forward to join me up here. -[2101.20 --> 2103.80] and you can come take a seat. -[2108.98 --> 2110.84] You have to come up quietly, though. -[2110.90 --> 2112.28] Hank is very tired. -[2113.56 --> 2114.42] Oh, don't touch him. -[2114.52 --> 2115.04] Don't touch him. -[2115.96 --> 2117.38] He's very sleepy. -[2119.88 --> 2121.64] We're going to need to wake him up, I think. -[2121.82 --> 2122.54] What do you think? -[2122.98 --> 2123.74] Should we do that? -[2124.36 --> 2127.30] Can you say, hi, Hank, on the count of three, -[2127.30 --> 2128.20] and maybe he'll wake up. -[2128.42 --> 2128.74] Are you ready? -[2129.02 --> 2130.72] One, two, three. -[2131.20 --> 2132.20] Hi, Hank. -[2135.70 --> 2136.22] Wow. -[2137.98 --> 2139.08] He's so tired. -[2139.34 --> 2140.40] I think you've got to say it again. -[2140.48 --> 2140.84] Are you ready? -[2141.30 --> 2142.78] One, two, three. -[2143.24 --> 2144.24] Hi, Hank. -[2145.10 --> 2146.38] Oh, wow. -[2147.28 --> 2148.48] Morning, everyone. -[2149.26 --> 2150.98] It's good to see you. -[2151.16 --> 2152.34] Hank, you're so tired. -[2152.42 --> 2153.34] Why are you so tired? -[2153.94 --> 2156.46] I've been very busy lately. -[2156.46 --> 2158.12] What have you been doing? -[2158.94 --> 2160.28] I volunteer. -[2161.20 --> 2162.20] You volunteer? -[2162.62 --> 2163.90] Who do you volunteer for? -[2164.50 --> 2166.32] A company called Sniffs. -[2167.36 --> 2167.88] Sniffs? -[2168.34 --> 2169.48] Yeah, Sniffs. -[2170.48 --> 2171.62] What does Sniffs do? -[2172.12 --> 2176.72] It helps people find those socks that are missing from the laundry. -[2176.72 --> 2180.62] You know how kids lose their socks in the laundry? -[2181.12 --> 2185.22] They hire me because I'm a dog, and then I go find the lost sock. -[2186.00 --> 2188.98] Do you want to know what Sniffs stands for? -[2189.74 --> 2191.10] Yep, I do. -[2191.48 --> 2193.28] What does Sniffs stand for? -[2194.32 --> 2194.92] Sniffing. -[2195.72 --> 2196.36] Investigating. -[2197.66 --> 2198.26] Sniffing. -[2199.26 --> 2199.90] Investigating. -[2199.90 --> 2202.02] Forgotten footwear. -[2202.52 --> 2202.84] Son. -[2203.42 --> 2205.02] Oh, that's good. -[2205.10 --> 2206.00] What's with the sun? -[2206.26 --> 2209.14] It had to be Sniffs, because there's more than one of us. -[2209.38 --> 2209.80] All right. -[2209.88 --> 2210.62] Sounds good. -[2211.12 --> 2212.90] That's fun that you get to help out in that way. -[2213.16 --> 2216.90] Yeah, people are really happy when I find their missing socks. -[2217.28 --> 2218.64] I'm sure they are. -[2218.86 --> 2222.98] We're actually going to talk about what it means to help people, too, today in children's worship time. -[2223.30 --> 2224.30] That's so good! -[2224.90 --> 2227.78] We're going to learn a little bit from a story in Exodus about that. -[2227.84 --> 2228.52] Does that sound fun? -[2229.28 --> 2229.56] Yeah? -[2229.82 --> 2235.62] We're going to pray first, and then we're going to go to children's worship time, and then we'll do the Lord's blessing, actually, and then we'll go to children's worship time, okay? -[2235.88 --> 2237.62] So let's bow our heads, close our eyes, let's pray. -[2238.52 --> 2240.16] Father God, we thank you so much for this day. -[2240.28 --> 2241.90] Thank you that we could be here in church today. -[2241.90 --> 2251.06] We pray that as we learn more about you, both here in the sanctuary and in the children's worship time rooms, we pray that you will be close to us and teach us what it is you want to teach us. -[2251.06 --> 2252.36] We pray this in your name. -[2252.92 --> 2253.22] Amen. -[2254.06 --> 2254.88] All right, let's stand up. -[2255.22 --> 2256.88] We're going to do the Lord's blessing together. -[2257.32 --> 2258.34] Do you remember what we're going to say? -[2259.16 --> 2260.40] The Lord be with you. -[2260.42 --> 2261.18] We're going to say that together. -[2261.26 --> 2261.70] Are you ready? -[2261.86 --> 2262.54] On the count of three. -[2262.60 --> 2263.36] One, two, three. -[2281.06 --> 2288.84] Good morning. -[2289.08 --> 2290.18] My name is Seth. -[2290.26 --> 2294.84] I'm an elder here at our church, and it's my pleasure to lead you in our congregational prayer. -[2295.46 --> 2298.88] Before I do that, though, we have an announcement from the council. -[2299.26 --> 2304.06] Our congregational meeting has been moved, the date conflicted with LCS Society meeting, -[2304.06 --> 2308.06] and so we're moving our annual general meeting to December 1st. -[2308.76 --> 2319.70] That will start, well, the meeting doesn't start until 6 o'clock, but if you can be here at 5 o'clock, fun times could ensue if there's a chance that you could overturn John Fulkert's championship. -[2320.78 --> 2329.06] We've got the Tri-Soup Challenge, and John is really hoping to win this thing again, but it's always fun if there's some competition there, so looking forward to that. -[2329.06 --> 2331.26] So join us at 5 on December 1st. -[2331.52 --> 2333.22] The meeting will start at 6. -[2334.96 --> 2341.28] Everybody should have received, if you're over 18 and a member, you should have received a copy of the agenda and the budget as well in your mailboxes. -[2342.88 --> 2344.08] Please join me in prayer. -[2347.44 --> 2352.04] Heavenly Father, we come before you today with hearts full of gratitude and reverence. -[2352.04 --> 2362.14] You are the creator of the heavens and the earth, the one who holds all things in your hands, and the God who calls us, your children, into a living relationship with you. -[2363.26 --> 2366.68] We thank you for the grace you have poured out upon us in Christ Jesus. -[2367.54 --> 2371.86] It is through him that we have been made new, forgiven, and reconciled to you. -[2372.56 --> 2378.12] It is because of your sovereignty that we can walk through the struggles of this life, trusting you and your goodness. -[2378.12 --> 2386.28] As we gather in your name today, we acknowledge that we are a people who are not perfect, but are being transformed by your grace. -[2386.88 --> 2391.32] We confessed our sins to you, knowing that you are faithful and just to forgive us. -[2392.10 --> 2396.52] Forgive us, Lord, for the times we have failed to love you with all our heart, soul, and mind, -[2396.92 --> 2399.96] and for the times we have failed to love our neighbors as ourselves. -[2401.20 --> 2405.46] Cleanse us from unrighteousness and empower us to live more fully as your disciples. -[2405.46 --> 2412.66] Father, we pray for the staff, the full council, and for all ministry leaders and volunteers of this church. -[2413.78 --> 2417.04] Grant them wisdom, discernment, and strength as they serve your body. -[2417.84 --> 2423.32] Help them to be faithful stewards of the gospel, leading with humility, integrity, and grace. -[2424.74 --> 2430.32] May they be people who seek your will above all else, who serve the flock with love, -[2430.72 --> 2433.48] and who encourage the body to grow in faith and good works. -[2433.48 --> 2437.02] And we thank you for evidence of this growth in our church, -[2437.36 --> 2440.70] as there are many new people coming to faith or returning to faith, -[2440.86 --> 2443.00] and that are connecting with our church family right now. -[2443.64 --> 2448.30] We pray for your spirit to continue to be at work in those people's lives, drawing them closer to you. -[2450.00 --> 2451.76] We also lift up our families, Lord. -[2452.22 --> 2453.62] We pray for strong marriages, -[2454.26 --> 2458.52] for parents who are faithful in raising their children in the nurture and fear of the Lord, -[2458.52 --> 2461.62] and for children who grow up to know and love you. -[2462.80 --> 2467.00] Strengthen our homes, and may they be places of peace, love, and encouragement. -[2467.96 --> 2471.26] We ask that you protect our families from division and strife, -[2471.46 --> 2474.88] and help us to be a reflection of your love to the world around us. -[2476.54 --> 2479.04] Lord, we bring to you the needs of our community. -[2479.04 --> 2482.30] You know the hearts of every person in this congregation, -[2482.88 --> 2487.04] and we pray for those who are struggling physically, emotionally, or spiritually. -[2488.04 --> 2491.48] For the sick, the hurting, the grieving, and the lonely, -[2492.22 --> 2494.64] may your presence be their comfort and healing. -[2495.34 --> 2498.70] And we ask for that comfort in particular for the family of Ernst de Vries, -[2498.94 --> 2500.34] as they mourn his sudden passing. -[2500.34 --> 2504.68] We also pray for Ashley as she continues her chemo treatment, -[2505.20 --> 2507.36] asking that you will give strength and complete healing. -[2508.56 --> 2511.80] We pray too for Linda Rook, of Neil and Linda Rooks, -[2511.90 --> 2514.66] as she was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. -[2515.64 --> 2518.72] We thank you that she was able to have surgery and is recovering at home, -[2518.94 --> 2521.84] but we ask that you will continue to bless them -[2521.84 --> 2523.54] as they determine the next course of treatment. -[2524.36 --> 2526.12] We pray for your peace for Linda and Neil, -[2526.32 --> 2527.92] and for full healing of Linda's body. -[2527.92 --> 2530.94] We bring to you as well, -[2531.16 --> 2532.28] Clary Klosterhof's father, -[2532.50 --> 2533.82] who has some upcoming testing. -[2534.72 --> 2537.18] And we pray that he will get good results, -[2537.46 --> 2540.76] and also that he'll have clarity in decisions to be made moving forward. -[2542.40 --> 2545.76] We pray too in thankfulness for the healing that you've given Mary already, -[2546.12 --> 2547.66] and ask for continued improvement. -[2549.32 --> 2552.60] For the shut-ins and others who cannot physically join us on Sundays, -[2553.34 --> 2555.64] bless them with a tangible awareness of your presence, -[2555.64 --> 2558.26] and help us to reach out to them as a community. -[2559.58 --> 2564.00] For those battling addiction, anxiety, depression, or other burdens, -[2564.50 --> 2566.42] we ask for your strength and peace. -[2568.78 --> 2572.14] Lord, we pray that your word may continue to be our guide and light. -[2572.14 --> 2575.76] As a congregation that holds to the truths of scripture, -[2576.30 --> 2578.48] may we always remain faithful to your word. -[2578.48 --> 2582.66] Help us to commit time and effort to grow in understanding -[2582.66 --> 2584.26] by reading your word, -[2584.72 --> 2585.74] to love your commandments, -[2586.18 --> 2587.56] and to live according to your will. -[2588.86 --> 2591.32] May the preaching of the word shared today by Chris -[2591.32 --> 2594.70] bring conviction, hope, and transformation in our lives. -[2595.36 --> 2596.82] Let it be a lamp to our feet -[2596.82 --> 2598.24] and a light to our path, -[2598.68 --> 2600.42] leading us to trust in your sovereignty. -[2600.42 --> 2604.70] We ask all of this in the precious name of Jesus Christ, -[2605.08 --> 2608.00] our Savior, our King, and our Lord. -[2608.86 --> 2609.24] Amen. -[2609.24 --> 2609.32] Amen. -[2609.32 --> 2632.58] This morning, we continue in our look at the story of Joseph -[2632.58 --> 2637.38] as we look for helps and encouragement -[2637.38 --> 2641.34] and sustaining presence out of God's sovereignty -[2641.34 --> 2643.54] in the midst of our own suffering. -[2644.68 --> 2646.18] I'm going to read this morning -[2646.18 --> 2650.06] the second part of the chapter that we started last week. -[2650.54 --> 2652.72] So from Genesis 41, -[2653.52 --> 2655.10] I'm going to start at verse 41 -[2655.10 --> 2656.58] and read through to the end. -[2657.00 --> 2658.28] There, I'm going to start with that -[2658.28 --> 2659.56] and then we'll dive in. -[2659.92 --> 2660.72] Let's read together. -[2662.58 --> 2664.26] So Pharaoh said to Joseph, -[2664.76 --> 2668.12] I hereby put you in charge of the whole land of Egypt. -[2668.88 --> 2672.18] Then Pharaoh took his signet ring from his finger -[2672.18 --> 2674.04] and put it on Joseph's finger. -[2674.52 --> 2676.44] He dressed him in robes of fine linen -[2676.44 --> 2678.54] and put a gold chain around his neck. -[2679.12 --> 2682.10] He had him ride in a chariot as his second in command -[2682.10 --> 2683.90] and people shouted before him, -[2684.00 --> 2684.50] Make way. -[2685.44 --> 2688.16] Thus he put him in charge of the whole land of Egypt. -[2689.52 --> 2691.12] And Pharaoh said to Joseph, -[2691.12 --> 2693.00] I am Pharaoh, -[2693.00 --> 2694.40] But without your word, -[2694.54 --> 2696.94] no one will lift hand or foot in all Egypt. -[2697.84 --> 2702.30] Pharaoh gave Joseph the name Zephathnath, Paneah, -[2702.60 --> 2706.28] and gave him Asenath, daughter of Potipharah, -[2706.62 --> 2708.18] priest of On, to be his wife. -[2708.58 --> 2710.50] And Joseph went through the land of Egypt. -[2711.80 --> 2714.98] Joseph was 30 years old -[2714.98 --> 2717.56] when he entered the service of Pharaoh, king of Egypt. -[2717.56 --> 2720.52] And Joseph went out from Pharaoh's presence -[2720.52 --> 2722.02] and traveled throughout Egypt. -[2722.80 --> 2724.90] During the seven years of abundance, -[2725.26 --> 2726.84] the land produced plentifully. -[2728.14 --> 2729.92] Joseph collected all the food produced -[2729.92 --> 2732.00] in those seven years of abundance in Egypt -[2732.00 --> 2733.48] and stored it in the cities. -[2734.46 --> 2737.00] In each city, he put the food grown in the fields -[2737.00 --> 2737.74] surrounding it. -[2738.94 --> 2741.50] Joseph stored up huge quantities of grain -[2741.50 --> 2743.14] like the sand of the sea. -[2743.14 --> 2747.12] And so it was so much that he stopped keeping records -[2747.12 --> 2748.82] because it was beyond measure. -[2750.46 --> 2752.48] Before the years of famine came, -[2752.62 --> 2754.26] two sons were born to Joseph -[2754.26 --> 2757.06] by Asenath, daughter of Potipharah, -[2757.38 --> 2758.00] priest of On. -[2758.38 --> 2760.90] Joseph named his firstborn Manasseh -[2760.90 --> 2761.70] and said, -[2761.70 --> 2763.98] It is because God has made me forget -[2763.98 --> 2764.78] all my troubles -[2764.78 --> 2766.24] and all my father's household. -[2767.06 --> 2769.38] The second son, he named Ephraim -[2769.38 --> 2769.88] and said, -[2770.18 --> 2772.14] It is because God has made me fruitful -[2772.14 --> 2773.56] in the land of my suffering. -[2775.12 --> 2777.28] The seven years of abundance in Egypt -[2777.28 --> 2778.36] came to an end -[2778.36 --> 2780.86] and the seven years of famine began -[2780.86 --> 2782.84] just as Joseph had said. -[2783.52 --> 2785.46] There was famine in all the other lands -[2785.46 --> 2786.84] but in the whole land of Egypt -[2786.84 --> 2787.60] there was food. -[2788.86 --> 2791.30] When all Egypt began to feel the famine, -[2791.30 --> 2793.40] the people cried to Pharaoh for food -[2793.40 --> 2795.92] and then Pharaoh told all the Egyptians, -[2796.48 --> 2798.76] Go to Joseph and do what he tells you. -[2799.86 --> 2801.30] When the famine had spread -[2801.30 --> 2802.40] over the whole country, -[2802.58 --> 2804.32] Joseph opened all the storehouses -[2804.32 --> 2806.50] and sold grain to the Egyptians -[2806.50 --> 2809.28] for the famine was severe throughout the land -[2809.28 --> 2811.74] and all the world came to Egypt -[2811.74 --> 2813.46] to buy grain from Joseph -[2813.46 --> 2816.50] because the famine was severe everywhere. -[2817.62 --> 2819.04] This is the word of the Lord. -[2821.30 --> 2825.86] Now this morning, -[2826.22 --> 2828.24] I want to do something -[2828.24 --> 2831.94] a little bit different with our time, -[2832.00 --> 2833.18] a little bit out of the ordinary, -[2833.46 --> 2835.04] at least out of the ordinary -[2835.04 --> 2837.72] from my perspective in leading. -[2839.12 --> 2840.54] What I want to do this morning -[2840.54 --> 2843.40] is spend this time -[2843.40 --> 2846.56] telling you a few stories. -[2846.56 --> 2850.68] Now, I'm going to say this at the front. -[2850.80 --> 2851.64] At some point, -[2851.96 --> 2853.10] some of you are going to wonder, -[2853.26 --> 2854.98] what on earth does this have to do with Joseph? -[2856.04 --> 2857.40] I want to ask for your patience. -[2858.46 --> 2859.56] Please stick with me -[2859.56 --> 2860.78] and we'll get there. -[2861.76 --> 2862.82] Some of these stories -[2862.82 --> 2863.94] are ones that I've read -[2863.94 --> 2865.06] and find really compelling. -[2866.28 --> 2868.58] Most of them are stories from my own life -[2868.58 --> 2871.90] and there's one that is from friends of mine -[2871.90 --> 2873.52] that I've used with their permission. -[2873.52 --> 2876.74] Now, the first story -[2876.74 --> 2878.04] that I want to share with you -[2878.04 --> 2880.24] is about a woman named Debbie -[2880.24 --> 2881.64] and it's a story -[2881.64 --> 2883.66] that's told by Melissa Kruger. -[2885.12 --> 2886.62] Melissa and Debbie are friends. -[2887.58 --> 2889.42] Melissa writes the following. -[2889.58 --> 2889.94] She says, -[2889.94 --> 2892.54] I knock on the door expectantly -[2892.54 --> 2894.60] and my friend Debbie -[2894.60 --> 2896.20] greets me in sweatpants -[2896.20 --> 2897.64] that hang loosely -[2897.64 --> 2899.74] on her diminishing frame. -[2901.18 --> 2903.68] Her face is slightly paler -[2903.68 --> 2905.32] than the last time I saw her -[2905.32 --> 2907.40] and soft peach fuzz -[2907.40 --> 2908.96] graces the top of her head. -[2910.02 --> 2913.16] She is the most beautiful woman I know. -[2914.90 --> 2916.84] I hug her tightly, -[2917.34 --> 2918.48] not wanting to let go, -[2918.48 --> 2920.56] wanting somehow to freeze -[2920.56 --> 2921.82] this moment in time. -[2922.40 --> 2924.88] The cancer that began in her breast -[2924.88 --> 2926.36] continues to spread -[2926.36 --> 2927.52] through the rest of her body. -[2928.76 --> 2930.14] She has more tumors -[2930.14 --> 2931.60] than the doctors can count, -[2932.04 --> 2933.84] rapidly overtaking her brain. -[2935.30 --> 2937.68] Daily, she faces agonizing stomach pains -[2937.68 --> 2938.34] and discomfort -[2938.34 --> 2940.64] and in the midst of the physical pain, -[2941.02 --> 2942.30] the emotional heartache -[2942.30 --> 2944.24] of saying goodbye to her husband -[2944.24 --> 2945.58] and to her children -[2945.58 --> 2947.90] is an ever-present companion. -[2950.02 --> 2951.70] Deep waves of suffering -[2951.70 --> 2953.22] have come to my friend -[2953.22 --> 2956.02] whose faith is still so fresh -[2956.02 --> 2956.82] and so new. -[2957.66 --> 2958.96] Her journey with cancer -[2958.96 --> 2960.00] four years ago -[2960.00 --> 2961.16] was the beginning -[2961.16 --> 2962.96] of her journey to faith. -[2964.24 --> 2965.34] Debbie describes -[2965.34 --> 2968.50] God's work in her own life. -[2969.68 --> 2970.38] Debbie says, -[2970.38 --> 2971.72] I was struggling -[2971.72 --> 2973.32] with my faith in Christ -[2973.32 --> 2974.32] for several years -[2974.32 --> 2975.50] before my diagnosis. -[2976.46 --> 2978.26] I prayed to have the faith -[2978.26 --> 2979.42] of a little child again. -[2979.56 --> 2980.68] I read and I researched -[2980.68 --> 2983.26] and I tried to make myself believe. -[2983.60 --> 2984.58] The problem is -[2984.58 --> 2986.80] you can't make yourself believe in Christ. -[2987.46 --> 2988.84] It's purely a gift. -[2990.42 --> 2991.86] God gave me that gift -[2991.86 --> 2993.58] with my first cancer diagnosis -[2993.58 --> 2995.68] in December of 2008. -[2995.68 --> 2999.90] And following chemotherapy treatments -[2999.90 --> 3000.70] and radiation, -[3001.24 --> 3003.88] that gift continued in 2009. -[3004.46 --> 3006.78] And then in July of 2010, -[3007.00 --> 3007.68] during my battle -[3007.68 --> 3009.14] with my first brain tumor -[3009.14 --> 3011.68] and first set of partial brain -[3011.68 --> 3012.82] radiation treatments, -[3013.28 --> 3014.26] God spoke to me -[3014.26 --> 3015.70] and told me that I was his -[3015.70 --> 3016.70] and he filled me -[3016.70 --> 3017.96] with his Holy Spirit. -[3018.80 --> 3019.76] I learned more -[3019.76 --> 3021.36] about finding true joy -[3021.36 --> 3022.20] and contentment -[3022.20 --> 3023.34] in all circumstances -[3023.34 --> 3025.68] and I gained new spiritual gifts -[3025.68 --> 3026.96] as he continued to work -[3026.96 --> 3028.26] to transform me. -[3029.48 --> 3031.24] In November of 2011, -[3031.48 --> 3032.44] with the diagnosis -[3032.44 --> 3033.86] of a second brain tumor, -[3034.20 --> 3035.54] followed by two more -[3035.54 --> 3036.32] brain surgeries -[3036.32 --> 3037.30] and a second round -[3037.30 --> 3039.42] of partial brain radiation treatments, -[3039.50 --> 3040.38] along with surgery -[3040.38 --> 3041.90] to remove a tumor in my lung, -[3042.20 --> 3042.90] he taught me -[3042.90 --> 3044.54] yet more dependence on him. -[3046.32 --> 3047.38] But still, -[3047.62 --> 3049.20] this wouldn't be enough -[3049.20 --> 3050.32] to bring me -[3050.32 --> 3051.28] to where my soul -[3051.28 --> 3052.02] needed to be. -[3053.34 --> 3054.96] This past April, -[3055.20 --> 3055.74] she writes, -[3055.98 --> 3057.14] I got the diagnosis -[3057.14 --> 3058.94] of four more brain tumors, -[3059.68 --> 3060.94] now on the left side -[3060.94 --> 3061.52] of my brain, -[3062.58 --> 3063.60] followed by 12 -[3063.60 --> 3065.60] whole brain radiation treatments. -[3067.28 --> 3069.50] It took this last battle -[3069.50 --> 3071.84] to completely humble me, -[3072.48 --> 3074.40] to make me understand -[3074.40 --> 3076.10] my complete dependence on God. -[3076.82 --> 3078.52] I finally feel like -[3078.52 --> 3079.24] I'm on the road -[3079.24 --> 3080.76] to the daily conversational -[3080.76 --> 3081.36] relationship -[3081.36 --> 3082.78] with my heavenly father -[3082.78 --> 3083.42] that I've always -[3083.42 --> 3084.38] strongly desired -[3084.38 --> 3085.02] and envied -[3085.02 --> 3085.78] in the few people -[3085.78 --> 3086.60] I've seen -[3086.60 --> 3087.52] who truly have it. -[3091.52 --> 3092.68] It's been worth -[3092.68 --> 3094.06] every day -[3094.06 --> 3095.76] I have suffered. -[3095.76 --> 3109.16] God has been weaving -[3109.16 --> 3110.32] a story in my life. -[3112.00 --> 3112.76] When I thought -[3112.76 --> 3113.48] he was refusing -[3113.48 --> 3114.62] to answer my prayers -[3114.62 --> 3115.44] and refusing -[3115.44 --> 3116.62] to show himself to me, -[3116.82 --> 3117.68] he was standing -[3117.68 --> 3118.64] just at the edges -[3118.64 --> 3119.50] but never gone. -[3120.46 --> 3121.76] He knew the full picture. -[3123.20 --> 3124.52] He cares about my soul. -[3124.52 --> 3131.30] Melissa goes on -[3131.30 --> 3132.08] in telling a story -[3132.08 --> 3134.08] that Debbie first came -[3134.08 --> 3134.98] to see her -[3134.98 --> 3137.32] when she was a seeker -[3137.32 --> 3138.08] journeying -[3138.08 --> 3139.08] and they met -[3139.08 --> 3139.90] at an outreach -[3139.90 --> 3140.60] Bible study -[3140.60 --> 3141.52] four years ago. -[3143.18 --> 3143.52] Melissa, -[3143.78 --> 3144.82] reflecting on Debbie, -[3145.04 --> 3146.08] says that she is -[3146.08 --> 3147.02] teaching us all -[3147.02 --> 3147.70] the beauty -[3147.70 --> 3149.82] of faithful suffering. -[3149.82 --> 3152.10] In the midst -[3152.10 --> 3153.00] of losing hair -[3153.00 --> 3153.76] and eyelashes -[3153.76 --> 3154.50] and eyebrows, -[3154.94 --> 3155.58] she glows -[3155.58 --> 3156.92] with an indescribable -[3156.92 --> 3157.54] radiance. -[3158.44 --> 3159.90] The dark depths -[3159.90 --> 3160.90] of her affliction -[3160.90 --> 3161.90] make her faith -[3161.90 --> 3162.56] shine -[3162.56 --> 3164.10] all the more clearly. -[3165.46 --> 3166.72] She believes -[3166.72 --> 3167.40] her suffering -[3167.40 --> 3168.20] has value -[3168.20 --> 3169.28] because she treasures -[3169.28 --> 3170.04] the growth -[3170.04 --> 3170.74] it brings -[3170.74 --> 3171.32] to her -[3171.32 --> 3173.20] spiritual life. -[3173.20 --> 3173.28] life. -[3174.98 --> 3175.80] She knows -[3175.80 --> 3176.36] her soul -[3176.36 --> 3176.98] will live -[3176.98 --> 3177.62] even if -[3177.62 --> 3178.08] her body -[3178.08 --> 3178.64] fails. -[3182.42 --> 3182.94] Now, -[3182.98 --> 3183.42] in their telling -[3183.42 --> 3184.16] of this story, -[3185.18 --> 3186.06] Melissa and Debbie -[3186.06 --> 3186.68] conclude, -[3186.68 --> 3189.14] does it matter -[3189.14 --> 3190.04] how we walk -[3190.04 --> 3190.78] in the face -[3190.78 --> 3191.38] of suffering? -[3192.66 --> 3193.44] The Bible -[3193.44 --> 3194.60] makes unapologetic -[3194.60 --> 3195.28] claims about -[3195.28 --> 3195.80] how we should -[3195.80 --> 3196.52] face suffering. -[3196.90 --> 3197.72] 1 Peter 4, -[3197.84 --> 3199.08] 13 says, -[3199.20 --> 3199.76] but rejoice -[3199.76 --> 3200.72] that you participate -[3200.72 --> 3201.66] in the sufferings -[3201.66 --> 3202.20] of Christ -[3202.20 --> 3203.10] so that you may -[3203.10 --> 3204.04] be overjoyed -[3204.04 --> 3204.82] when his glory -[3204.82 --> 3205.52] is revealed. -[3206.92 --> 3207.32] Together, -[3207.46 --> 3207.94] they reflect -[3207.94 --> 3208.76] allowing us -[3208.76 --> 3209.56] to experience -[3209.56 --> 3210.42] the brokenness -[3210.42 --> 3211.18] of this world -[3211.18 --> 3212.64] keeps us thirsty -[3212.64 --> 3213.60] for the next. -[3215.46 --> 3216.58] The reality -[3216.58 --> 3217.16] of death -[3217.16 --> 3217.82] forces us -[3217.82 --> 3218.34] to consider -[3218.34 --> 3218.94] carefully -[3218.94 --> 3220.12] how we live. -[3221.98 --> 3223.26] Only by believing -[3223.26 --> 3223.88] that a better -[3223.88 --> 3224.74] home awaits -[3224.74 --> 3226.14] can we experience -[3226.14 --> 3227.60] any sort of light -[3227.60 --> 3228.88] in this land -[3228.88 --> 3229.60] of shadows. -[3231.42 --> 3232.54] Debbie would not -[3232.54 --> 3233.74] choose her situation. -[3236.32 --> 3237.40] Melissa reflects, -[3237.70 --> 3238.28] she has, -[3238.48 --> 3238.70] however, -[3238.96 --> 3240.06] chosen how -[3240.06 --> 3241.66] to live in it. -[3242.86 --> 3243.62] She lives -[3243.62 --> 3244.12] as a servant -[3244.12 --> 3244.60] of God. -[3246.58 --> 3248.94] The next story -[3248.94 --> 3249.50] I want to share -[3249.50 --> 3251.96] is from friends -[3251.96 --> 3252.36] of ours. -[3252.64 --> 3253.04] Some of you -[3253.04 --> 3253.34] have heard -[3253.34 --> 3253.94] parts of their -[3253.94 --> 3254.46] stories in -[3254.46 --> 3254.94] different places -[3254.94 --> 3255.40] before. -[3257.44 --> 3258.28] Rachel and I -[3258.28 --> 3259.32] met Josh -[3259.32 --> 3259.82] in April -[3259.82 --> 3261.54] while we were -[3261.54 --> 3262.22] in seminary -[3262.22 --> 3263.50] and we quickly -[3263.50 --> 3264.64] became friends -[3264.64 --> 3265.04] with them. -[3266.40 --> 3267.20] Rachel and I -[3267.20 --> 3267.82] were married -[3267.82 --> 3268.70] for just a few -[3268.70 --> 3269.06] months. -[3269.26 --> 3269.70] When we met -[3269.70 --> 3269.90] them, -[3269.98 --> 3270.40] they had been -[3270.40 --> 3271.20] married for seven -[3271.20 --> 3272.28] years and had -[3272.28 --> 3272.80] been trying to -[3272.80 --> 3273.56] have kids together -[3273.56 --> 3274.18] for the last -[3274.18 --> 3274.52] three. -[3276.00 --> 3276.62] They tried -[3276.62 --> 3277.20] everything. -[3277.80 --> 3278.76] Fertility drugs, -[3278.98 --> 3279.60] DNCs, -[3280.14 --> 3281.22] IVF, -[3281.40 --> 3282.02] all of it. -[3282.12 --> 3282.52] Some of you -[3282.52 --> 3283.72] know exactly -[3283.72 --> 3285.04] what I'm talking -[3285.04 --> 3285.38] about. -[3287.92 --> 3288.90] As part of -[3288.90 --> 3289.82] that process, -[3290.14 --> 3291.50] they harvested -[3291.50 --> 3293.02] and fertilized -[3293.02 --> 3295.18] five, -[3295.52 --> 3296.60] or of the eggs -[3296.60 --> 3297.02] that they had -[3297.02 --> 3297.66] harvested and -[3297.66 --> 3298.22] fertilized, -[3298.30 --> 3299.18] only five -[3299.18 --> 3301.08] became embryos -[3301.08 --> 3302.94] and the first -[3302.94 --> 3305.22] two implantations -[3305.22 --> 3305.96] had failed. -[3307.32 --> 3308.14] And on this -[3308.14 --> 3309.14] particular day, -[3309.28 --> 3310.94] Josh and April -[3310.94 --> 3311.74] were going back -[3311.74 --> 3312.80] to Ontario, -[3313.00 --> 3313.54] to the hospital -[3313.54 --> 3313.92] that they had -[3313.92 --> 3314.30] been working -[3314.30 --> 3314.68] with, -[3315.04 --> 3315.70] while we were -[3315.70 --> 3316.22] in Michigan, -[3317.16 --> 3318.08] to try for the -[3318.08 --> 3318.64] third time. -[3319.64 --> 3320.20] And Josh had -[3320.20 --> 3320.98] gathered us up -[3320.98 --> 3321.72] together as -[3321.72 --> 3322.48] friends and -[3322.48 --> 3323.52] asked us to -[3323.52 --> 3325.00] pray for this -[3325.00 --> 3326.08] journey and for -[3326.08 --> 3326.86] this process. -[3326.86 --> 3337.86] Josh came -[3337.86 --> 3338.26] and found -[3338.26 --> 3339.62] us later, -[3340.50 --> 3342.10] and we were -[3342.10 --> 3342.68] where we normally -[3342.68 --> 3343.18] were, which was -[3343.18 --> 3343.56] in the corner -[3343.56 --> 3344.24] of the library, -[3344.80 --> 3346.60] and he saw -[3346.60 --> 3348.00] us and started -[3348.00 --> 3348.66] weeping. -[3349.78 --> 3350.46] And the only -[3350.46 --> 3351.08] thing he said -[3351.08 --> 3351.92] to me was, -[3352.72 --> 3354.06] I think God -[3354.06 --> 3355.08] hates me. -[3356.86 --> 3357.88] because it -[3357.88 --> 3358.44] didn't work. -[3359.54 --> 3360.72] It failed -[3360.72 --> 3361.50] again. -[3362.54 --> 3363.22] And so we -[3363.22 --> 3364.26] all wept -[3364.26 --> 3365.04] together -[3365.04 --> 3366.20] in the -[3366.20 --> 3366.58] library. -[3370.38 --> 3371.20] Now, -[3372.14 --> 3373.12] fast forward -[3373.12 --> 3374.36] a few months, -[3374.94 --> 3375.92] and Josh and -[3375.92 --> 3376.90] April, with all -[3376.90 --> 3377.80] the failures -[3377.80 --> 3378.82] that they've -[3378.82 --> 3379.20] experienced, -[3379.30 --> 3380.26] decided that -[3380.26 --> 3380.50] they're going -[3380.50 --> 3381.04] to adopt. -[3381.04 --> 3384.52] and I -[3384.52 --> 3385.34] honestly was -[3385.34 --> 3385.68] trying to -[3385.68 --> 3386.36] remember Rachel, -[3386.50 --> 3387.14] but it felt -[3387.14 --> 3387.64] like it was -[3387.64 --> 3388.14] this quick. -[3388.40 --> 3389.00] Three weeks -[3389.00 --> 3389.46] after they -[3389.46 --> 3390.12] decided that -[3390.12 --> 3390.36] they were -[3390.36 --> 3390.80] going to -[3390.80 --> 3391.18] adopt, -[3391.50 --> 3391.98] a family -[3391.98 --> 3392.46] phoned them -[3392.46 --> 3392.76] and said, -[3392.84 --> 3393.10] hey, I -[3393.10 --> 3393.56] just had a -[3393.56 --> 3393.92] baby and -[3393.92 --> 3394.26] I want you -[3394.26 --> 3394.46] to be -[3394.46 --> 3395.00] their parents. -[3396.26 --> 3396.70] And so -[3396.70 --> 3397.04] they took -[3397.04 --> 3397.38] home this -[3397.38 --> 3397.98] beautiful baby -[3397.98 --> 3399.36] girl named -[3399.36 --> 3399.74] Kaylin. -[3402.66 --> 3403.38] Fast forward -[3403.38 --> 3404.04] to present -[3404.04 --> 3404.38] day, -[3405.04 --> 3405.44] Josh and -[3405.44 --> 3406.00] April have -[3406.00 --> 3407.06] three beautiful -[3407.06 --> 3407.62] kids. -[3407.76 --> 3408.10] Kaylin, -[3408.58 --> 3409.18] they're adopted. -[3409.44 --> 3410.18] Jude, who -[3410.18 --> 3411.34] is an IVF -[3411.34 --> 3411.82] baby that -[3411.82 --> 3412.44] did end up -[3412.44 --> 3412.92] working for -[3412.92 --> 3413.60] them, and -[3413.60 --> 3414.28] Lucas, their -[3414.28 --> 3414.98] youngest, who's -[3414.98 --> 3415.90] an embryo that -[3415.90 --> 3416.46] they adopted -[3416.46 --> 3418.24] and then April -[3418.24 --> 3418.94] carried to -[3418.94 --> 3419.20] term. -[3421.38 --> 3422.20] This summer, -[3422.36 --> 3422.98] we sat with -[3422.98 --> 3424.56] them camping -[3424.56 --> 3425.20] with a group -[3425.20 --> 3425.70] of friends, -[3425.88 --> 3426.30] and at one -[3426.30 --> 3428.02] point, Josh -[3428.02 --> 3429.14] turns to me -[3429.14 --> 3430.30] and he says, -[3430.70 --> 3431.86] look how God -[3431.86 --> 3432.54] has blessed -[3432.54 --> 3433.04] us. -[3435.28 --> 3436.12] That's a long -[3436.12 --> 3437.62] way from, -[3438.02 --> 3438.56] I think God -[3438.56 --> 3439.12] hates me. -[3440.18 --> 3443.74] these are our -[3443.74 --> 3444.20] stories. -[3447.60 --> 3448.38] Summer of -[3448.38 --> 3449.26] 2007, -[3450.60 --> 3452.10] Rachel and I -[3452.10 --> 3452.76] had just -[3452.76 --> 3453.80] written our -[3453.80 --> 3454.68] final exams -[3454.68 --> 3455.48] at university. -[3456.02 --> 3456.86] A week later, -[3456.94 --> 3457.58] we got married. -[3458.58 --> 3458.82] Yay. -[3460.72 --> 3461.80] The next week, -[3461.88 --> 3462.38] we were in -[3462.38 --> 3463.20] Cuba for our -[3463.20 --> 3463.56] honeymoon. -[3464.70 --> 3465.94] The week after -[3465.94 --> 3466.90] coming back -[3466.90 --> 3467.34] from our -[3467.34 --> 3468.24] honeymoon, we -[3468.24 --> 3469.08] received our -[3469.08 --> 3469.74] degrees and -[3469.74 --> 3470.46] had graduation -[3470.46 --> 3471.40] ceremonies and -[3471.40 --> 3472.64] celebrations and -[3472.64 --> 3473.04] parties. -[3473.20 --> 3473.96] In two months' -[3474.10 --> 3475.08] time, we were -[3475.08 --> 3475.98] going to move to -[3475.98 --> 3476.62] Grand Rapids, -[3476.74 --> 3477.54] Michigan, so I -[3477.54 --> 3478.32] could start my -[3478.32 --> 3479.50] master's program -[3479.50 --> 3479.96] together. -[3480.42 --> 3481.92] And on June 28, -[3482.78 --> 3483.96] a good friend of -[3483.96 --> 3485.74] ours was killed -[3485.74 --> 3487.42] in a car crash -[3487.42 --> 3488.98] while visiting his -[3488.98 --> 3490.22] family in -[3490.22 --> 3490.46] Carmen, -[3490.46 --> 3491.02] Manitoba. -[3491.02 --> 3494.04] Our friend group -[3494.04 --> 3495.24] was devastated. -[3496.76 --> 3497.24] Twenty, -[3497.44 --> 3498.22] twenty-five of -[3498.22 --> 3499.22] us gathered -[3499.22 --> 3500.16] together in -[3500.16 --> 3500.98] our house where -[3500.98 --> 3502.18] I lived with -[3502.18 --> 3503.12] Craig before -[3503.12 --> 3503.88] getting married, -[3504.10 --> 3505.16] and we gathered -[3505.16 --> 3506.26] there to cry, -[3506.78 --> 3508.02] and Karis was -[3508.02 --> 3508.66] there, and her -[3508.66 --> 3509.48] dad came and -[3509.48 --> 3510.40] actually joined us -[3510.40 --> 3511.38] and led us in -[3511.38 --> 3512.68] prayer in that -[3512.68 --> 3513.00] moment. -[3513.00 --> 3517.38] And I didn't -[3517.38 --> 3518.06] remember this part -[3518.06 --> 3518.94] of the story until -[3518.94 --> 3520.28] this week as I -[3520.28 --> 3521.04] was reflecting on -[3521.04 --> 3521.56] sharing it with -[3521.56 --> 3521.84] you. -[3522.92 --> 3524.06] In that moment, -[3524.30 --> 3525.22] in my group of -[3525.22 --> 3526.66] friends, I felt -[3526.66 --> 3527.60] like I had to be -[3527.60 --> 3528.80] strong, and I -[3528.80 --> 3529.62] felt like I had to -[3529.62 --> 3530.62] help people carry -[3530.62 --> 3531.86] the weight of this -[3531.86 --> 3533.22] tragic moment. -[3534.28 --> 3535.04] And then Rachel -[3535.04 --> 3536.28] and I, after being -[3536.28 --> 3537.16] with our friends, -[3537.46 --> 3538.60] got in our car, -[3538.72 --> 3539.52] and we drove back -[3539.52 --> 3540.92] to our basement -[3540.92 --> 3541.80] apartment that we -[3541.80 --> 3542.50] were living in for -[3542.50 --> 3543.52] those few months, -[3543.66 --> 3544.16] and when we got -[3544.16 --> 3545.42] home, I opened the -[3545.42 --> 3546.32] door, and I -[3546.32 --> 3547.06] stepped out of the -[3547.06 --> 3547.70] car, and I -[3547.70 --> 3548.88] collapsed to the -[3548.88 --> 3550.34] ground, weeping. -[3551.98 --> 3553.10] Weeping at the -[3553.10 --> 3554.12] death of my -[3554.12 --> 3554.58] friend. -[3556.02 --> 3556.84] Weeping at the -[3556.84 --> 3557.68] tragedy that we -[3557.68 --> 3558.82] were all living in -[3558.82 --> 3559.52] the midst of, and I -[3559.52 --> 3560.68] just couldn't carry -[3560.68 --> 3561.32] it anymore. -[3561.44 --> 3562.02] And praise God, -[3562.08 --> 3563.00] Rachel gathered -[3563.00 --> 3564.12] me up, took me -[3564.12 --> 3564.54] inside. -[3566.60 --> 3567.56] Now a number of -[3567.56 --> 3568.22] us in that group -[3568.22 --> 3569.32] of friends decided -[3569.32 --> 3569.98] that we were going -[3569.98 --> 3570.64] to travel to -[3570.64 --> 3571.00] Carmen, -[3571.00 --> 3572.46] Manitoba, for the -[3572.46 --> 3572.80] funeral. -[3573.94 --> 3575.20] And so like 18 of -[3575.20 --> 3577.26] us got on a plane, -[3577.66 --> 3579.62] and we flew to -[3579.62 --> 3580.74] Winnipeg, and then -[3580.74 --> 3581.60] got picked up by -[3581.60 --> 3582.86] Craig's parents and -[3582.86 --> 3584.02] his family, and -[3584.02 --> 3584.84] brought to his -[3584.84 --> 3585.72] house and to his -[3585.72 --> 3586.48] cousin's property -[3586.48 --> 3588.06] where we stayed -[3588.06 --> 3588.54] together. -[3589.54 --> 3590.76] And in that week -[3590.76 --> 3592.12] of time together, -[3592.24 --> 3593.30] those days of time -[3593.30 --> 3594.38] together, there was -[3594.38 --> 3595.42] this weird thing -[3595.42 --> 3596.28] that took place, and -[3596.28 --> 3597.36] many of you can -[3597.36 --> 3598.06] understand this, -[3598.14 --> 3598.26] right? -[3598.26 --> 3598.92] Like there was -[3598.92 --> 3600.82] laughter, and there -[3600.82 --> 3601.34] was tears. -[3602.26 --> 3603.34] There was mourning -[3603.34 --> 3604.52] and hurt and pain, -[3604.52 --> 3605.90] and we had so much -[3605.90 --> 3607.10] fun together. -[3609.26 --> 3610.68] In that moment, it's -[3610.68 --> 3611.56] weird, and it doesn't -[3611.56 --> 3613.40] make sense, and it -[3613.40 --> 3614.40] doesn't make it okay, -[3614.52 --> 3615.24] not at all. -[3616.52 --> 3617.58] But it does make it -[3617.58 --> 3619.08] different, right? -[3619.08 --> 3622.36] Craig's parents and -[3622.36 --> 3623.96] his family would -[3623.96 --> 3625.82] remark how important -[3625.82 --> 3627.40] that was for them to -[3627.40 --> 3628.26] get a glimpse into -[3628.26 --> 3629.20] Craig's university -[3629.20 --> 3630.78] friends and family, and -[3630.78 --> 3632.12] his life lived so far -[3632.12 --> 3634.26] away from them, right, -[3634.32 --> 3635.64] for four years. -[3637.12 --> 3638.46] And reflecting back on -[3638.46 --> 3639.70] that journey, like God -[3639.70 --> 3641.06] used that moment and -[3641.06 --> 3642.24] that circumstance to -[3642.24 --> 3644.14] show me that the -[3644.14 --> 3645.48] church of God is just -[3645.48 --> 3647.32] so much bigger, and -[3647.32 --> 3648.64] that we, as brothers -[3648.64 --> 3649.26] and sisters in -[3649.26 --> 3650.26] Christ, are so much -[3650.26 --> 3652.10] closer because of our -[3652.10 --> 3653.90] shared faith that I -[3653.90 --> 3654.42] could ever have -[3654.42 --> 3655.34] previously imagined. -[3656.26 --> 3656.46] Right? -[3656.46 --> 3657.84] He used that event to -[3657.84 --> 3659.76] show me that tears and -[3659.76 --> 3660.98] laughter, that suffering -[3660.98 --> 3662.54] and joy are part of the -[3662.54 --> 3666.30] Christian experience, and -[3666.30 --> 3667.48] that I can't be spared -[3667.48 --> 3670.16] the reality of -[3670.16 --> 3674.26] suffering, but I can -[3674.26 --> 3675.10] worship in the midst -[3675.10 --> 3675.42] of it. -[3677.90 --> 3678.88] And at his funeral, -[3679.10 --> 3680.36] hundreds of hundreds of -[3680.36 --> 3681.52] family and friends and -[3681.52 --> 3682.40] community members -[3682.40 --> 3684.16] gathered together, and -[3684.16 --> 3685.60] we sang and we blew the -[3685.60 --> 3687.04] roof off of that little -[3687.04 --> 3687.80] church in Carmen, -[3687.90 --> 3688.90] Manitoba, singing, -[3689.00 --> 3689.48] Great is thy -[3689.48 --> 3690.08] faithfulness. -[3694.44 --> 3695.60] These are our stories. -[3695.60 --> 3708.84] When I was 18, I got a -[3708.84 --> 3711.32] call from one of my -[3711.32 --> 3712.04] best friends. -[3713.40 --> 3715.70] Now, some of you, this is -[3715.70 --> 3717.50] going to be weird, but it -[3717.50 --> 3719.06] used to be the case that you -[3719.06 --> 3720.36] only had phones that stayed -[3720.36 --> 3722.62] on the wall, and they were -[3722.62 --> 3725.76] attached to it by a cord, and -[3725.76 --> 3727.38] if someone phoned after 10 -[3727.38 --> 3729.16] o'clock, it was only ever -[3729.16 --> 3730.30] because something was wrong, -[3730.36 --> 3731.36] not because they just wanted -[3731.36 --> 3732.58] to chat and they had you in -[3732.58 --> 3733.74] their pocket the whole time. -[3734.40 --> 3735.34] And so when the phone rings -[3735.34 --> 3737.94] after 10 o'clock, there's a -[3737.94 --> 3739.92] generation of us here who go, -[3740.06 --> 3740.98] oh crap, who died? -[3741.92 --> 3742.90] Because that's the only reason -[3742.90 --> 3743.92] the phone rings after 10. -[3745.38 --> 3747.58] But we got a phone call after -[3747.58 --> 3750.84] 10 o'clock that one of my -[3750.84 --> 3755.54] best friends had tried to -[3755.54 --> 3756.50] take his own life. -[3763.20 --> 3770.00] And so we rushed over to his -[3770.00 --> 3774.38] house to be with him and with -[3774.38 --> 3778.28] his parents, and they had -[3778.28 --> 3781.46] called a friend of theirs who -[3781.46 --> 3782.60] was an elder in the church. -[3783.70 --> 3785.66] Now, at this point in my life, -[3785.90 --> 3787.48] if you know my own story, I -[3787.48 --> 3788.50] wasn't very close to God. -[3789.08 --> 3790.16] I wasn't a good Christian. -[3791.06 --> 3793.32] My default posture was -[3793.32 --> 3795.96] definitely not to pray, but -[3795.96 --> 3797.04] that's what this elder did. -[3798.24 --> 3799.90] He said, we need to pray -[3799.90 --> 3801.20] together, boys. -[3802.14 --> 3803.90] And there we were, a group of -[3803.90 --> 3805.64] five boys, only two of us who -[3805.64 --> 3806.70] pretended to be Christians. -[3806.70 --> 3808.88] Everyone else was at a loss for -[3808.88 --> 3809.32] what to do. -[3811.30 --> 3813.24] God used that moment, right, and -[3813.24 --> 3814.88] reflecting on that back now, -[3815.30 --> 3817.46] amongst many other things, but -[3817.46 --> 3820.66] poignantly, to craft in my -[3820.66 --> 3823.90] vision a default to pray in the -[3823.90 --> 3826.44] midst of the utter brokenness and -[3826.44 --> 3828.86] unknown and chaoses of life. -[3828.86 --> 3838.20] coming up on 15 years ago, I -[3838.20 --> 3841.84] started in my first church in -[3841.84 --> 3843.34] ministry. -[3843.50 --> 3846.98] The first Sunday on the job, I -[3846.98 --> 3848.64] stood in front of the church, and I -[3848.64 --> 3850.30] had to confess that I almost burned -[3850.30 --> 3851.74] the entire church building down -[3851.74 --> 3854.08] because I had left an oven mitt in -[3854.08 --> 3856.12] what I thought was the storage tray -[3856.12 --> 3856.88] under the oven. -[3856.88 --> 3858.72] Turns out it was a warming tray -[3858.72 --> 3862.26] caught on fire, and there was a -[3862.26 --> 3864.24] massive smoke plume in the -[3864.24 --> 3866.50] kitchen, and I had to confess to -[3866.50 --> 3867.72] them, I almost burned down your -[3867.72 --> 3868.80] church, and I've only been here for -[3868.80 --> 3869.34] three days. -[3869.74 --> 3870.10] Sorry. -[3870.76 --> 3872.76] Hopefully that's not a parable of -[3872.76 --> 3873.42] what is to come. -[3874.42 --> 3876.30] In truth, I still have that oven mitt -[3876.30 --> 3878.46] in my office right now as a -[3878.46 --> 3879.94] reminder to not take myself too -[3879.94 --> 3880.38] seriously. -[3880.38 --> 3884.86] But the second Sunday on the job, -[3885.64 --> 3887.86] five minutes before the church -[3887.86 --> 3891.04] service started, a parent came up to -[3891.04 --> 3893.46] me and said, I just got a phone call -[3893.46 --> 3896.36] that a 17-year-old boy from our -[3896.36 --> 3897.94] church community, from the school -[3897.94 --> 3899.82] community that we were part of, had -[3899.82 --> 3900.60] taken his own life. -[3900.60 --> 3909.14] I didn't know these people, barely. -[3909.62 --> 3911.92] I didn't know Clayton at all. -[3913.04 --> 3914.70] And I had to stand in front of them, -[3915.20 --> 3917.26] and as the first word to them on -[3917.26 --> 3920.10] Sunday morning, tell them this news. -[3920.10 --> 3926.06] And in the midst of that, again, I -[3926.06 --> 3926.42] wept. -[3927.80 --> 3930.04] I wept for these people that I -[3930.04 --> 3933.00] didn't know and yet felt such a deep -[3933.00 --> 3935.00] love for in that moment. -[3937.68 --> 3939.28] And one of the things that God has -[3939.28 --> 3940.52] taught me coming out of that -[3940.52 --> 3943.82] experience is that God can give you a -[3943.82 --> 3945.64] love for a people you don't know. -[3946.62 --> 3949.00] That God makes our love possible, -[3949.00 --> 3951.12] even when we don't feel like it, -[3951.14 --> 3952.28] even when we don't feel like it -[3952.28 --> 3955.62] anymore, God can give you that love. -[3958.40 --> 3960.96] Now these are just some of my stories, -[3961.66 --> 3964.36] and I didn't go into the details of -[3964.36 --> 3966.08] many of them deeply. -[3970.30 --> 3972.72] You have your own stories. -[3973.86 --> 3976.06] This community, this family, has its -[3976.06 --> 3978.08] own stories in the death of a friend, -[3978.08 --> 3980.16] the death of a son, the death of a -[3980.16 --> 3982.02] father, the death of a baby or a -[3982.02 --> 3982.40] toddler. -[3983.54 --> 3986.30] We have stories of aging parents, of -[3986.30 --> 3989.06] losing mom to dementia five years -[3989.06 --> 3990.34] before she died of old age. -[3991.62 --> 3994.18] Stories of chronic illnesses that -[3994.18 --> 3996.14] medical teams can't seem to figure out -[3996.14 --> 3998.52] or fix, and we're just barely hanging -[3998.52 --> 3999.82] on in the middle of it. -[3999.82 --> 4002.98] These are our stories. -[4003.98 --> 4004.42] Right? -[4004.50 --> 4006.38] Each one of us in the life of this -[4006.38 --> 4008.00] church family right now. -[4008.92 --> 4011.84] And there's so many more. -[4016.04 --> 4018.16] And what we do with these stories, -[4018.30 --> 4021.10] how we tell these stories, -[4021.10 --> 4024.74] matters for us today. -[4024.74 --> 4030.60] Psalm 126, verse 5 and 6 says, -[4031.12 --> 4033.96] Those who sow with tears will reap with -[4033.96 --> 4036.64] songs of joy, and those who go out -[4036.64 --> 4039.24] weeping, carrying seed to sow, will -[4039.24 --> 4041.34] return with songs of joy, carrying -[4041.34 --> 4043.06] sheaves with them. -[4044.30 --> 4045.38] Here's what I want you to see. -[4045.48 --> 4046.68] We'll leave that on the screen for a -[4046.68 --> 4046.82] minute. -[4046.82 --> 4053.56] Tears are sown in our stories like a -[4053.56 --> 4055.36] farmer sows seeds. -[4057.20 --> 4061.28] And tears, when properly sown, can in -[4061.28 --> 4063.08] fact bring joy. -[4065.12 --> 4067.34] But what is important for us to hear is -[4067.34 --> 4070.64] that it also means it is possible to -[4070.64 --> 4071.86] waste our tears. -[4072.74 --> 4076.40] It's possible to throw out our sorrows, -[4076.40 --> 4079.32] imagine a gardener, right, who -[4079.32 --> 4084.56] carefully places each seed in the -[4084.56 --> 4086.86] little hole that they have made, -[4087.14 --> 4092.36] right, and in six weeks to however -[4092.36 --> 4093.78] many months, I'm not a gardener, I -[4093.78 --> 4094.94] don't know how this works, right, -[4095.00 --> 4097.58] there's fruit, there's plants, there's -[4097.58 --> 4100.08] beauty, and the miracle of life comes -[4100.08 --> 4100.40] from that. -[4100.60 --> 4102.66] Now imagine that same gardener taking -[4102.66 --> 4104.72] the pile of seeds and just shoving -[4104.72 --> 4105.34] them on the ground. -[4107.24 --> 4108.26] That doesn't grow. -[4109.54 --> 4112.08] It's possible to waste your sorrows. -[4113.22 --> 4117.98] Tears are like seeds that when sown -[4117.98 --> 4121.68] properly reap songs of joy. -[4122.14 --> 4124.32] But here also, as we keep this in front -[4124.32 --> 4127.82] of us, right, the joy that we might -[4127.82 --> 4132.06] experience, at least from Psalm 126, -[4132.38 --> 4136.04] is produced by the sorrow. -[4138.72 --> 4139.50] Hear that. -[4140.20 --> 4144.56] It's grown out of the sorrow, right, -[4144.60 --> 4147.24] that the sadness of grief can make us -[4147.24 --> 4149.44] more joyful in the long run. -[4149.44 --> 4150.44] And here's... -[4150.44 --> 4159.14] I'm going to say this isn't just what I -[4159.14 --> 4160.24] believe. -[4161.44 --> 4164.54] This is what I know to be true. -[4166.54 --> 4168.64] Because of the gospel. -[4170.64 --> 4171.00] Right? -[4171.00 --> 4173.68] Because of Jesus' suffering, -[4175.44 --> 4183.44] ultimate joy is possible and real. -[4184.10 --> 4186.70] Out of Jesus' suffering, -[4187.14 --> 4189.98] ultimate joy can come to those who by -[4189.98 --> 4191.30] grace through faith believe. -[4191.38 --> 4193.10] Because he lived the life I should have -[4193.10 --> 4194.76] lived and died the death that I -[4194.76 --> 4194.96] deserved. -[4195.02 --> 4197.92] Because he was raised victorious over sin -[4197.92 --> 4199.38] and death three days later, -[4200.34 --> 4201.88] because of Jesus, -[4202.96 --> 4207.32] God has shown us -[4207.32 --> 4211.28] that he can take what Peter Kreeft -[4211.28 --> 4215.60] called the world's most awesome -[4215.60 --> 4218.22] attempt at evil, the killing of God -[4218.22 --> 4222.66] himself, and turn it into the most -[4222.66 --> 4227.84] joyful, possible reality for those of us -[4227.84 --> 4228.22] who believe. -[4228.30 --> 4231.84] That is the salvation of his people. -[4233.58 --> 4237.50] And when we can see and hear the -[4237.50 --> 4240.16] ultimate story of God turning -[4240.16 --> 4242.32] suffering into joy, -[4242.80 --> 4246.10] we can begin to hear that in other -[4246.10 --> 4247.06] stories as well. -[4248.60 --> 4250.52] So in this series, we have been looking -[4250.52 --> 4252.90] at God's sovereignty in the midst of -[4252.90 --> 4254.22] human suffering. -[4254.22 --> 4256.82] And for so many of us, so often, -[4257.12 --> 4259.86] our suffering is a challenge to the -[4259.86 --> 4260.94] sovereignty of God. -[4260.98 --> 4262.74] But what we are beginning to learn is -[4262.74 --> 4264.64] that doesn't have to be true for us, -[4264.68 --> 4264.78] right? -[4264.84 --> 4267.40] Because God is sovereign, we can endure -[4267.40 --> 4267.98] suffering. -[4268.32 --> 4270.64] And God's sovereignty, in fact, is the only -[4270.64 --> 4273.64] way to ensure that our suffering can have -[4273.64 --> 4274.86] any meaning. -[4275.02 --> 4277.24] Any one of those stories that I mentioned -[4277.24 --> 4282.86] before, the only way I can be sure that God -[4282.86 --> 4285.50] has a purpose in them while I'm in the -[4285.50 --> 4288.64] middle of it is if God is sovereign. -[4288.70 --> 4289.96] Otherwise, it's just a guessing game. -[4291.66 --> 4293.76] Only on the firm foundation of God's -[4293.76 --> 4296.38] sovereignty can you have any real hope that -[4296.38 --> 4298.84] your suffering matters, that it's doing -[4298.84 --> 4300.22] something, that it has a purpose. -[4300.68 --> 4303.66] And if God isn't sovereign, everything you go -[4303.66 --> 4306.64] through might not be necessary, might not be -[4306.64 --> 4307.56] worth it. -[4310.22 --> 4312.54] And so in our stories, in the story of -[4312.54 --> 4315.18] Joseph, we've been looking for God hints. -[4317.10 --> 4320.34] And in this chapter, in verse 51, -[4321.24 --> 4324.86] Joseph is blessed with two children. -[4324.86 --> 4328.34] And it's in the names of those two children -[4328.34 --> 4331.78] that I want to find our God hint today. -[4332.92 --> 4336.64] So the first son he has is named Manasseh, -[4336.96 --> 4340.00] which literally means he caused to forget. -[4340.42 --> 4342.64] He who brings about forgetfulness. -[4343.66 --> 4346.48] And it's used here to describe God's activity -[4346.48 --> 4349.18] on behalf of Joseph and in anticipation -[4349.18 --> 4351.40] of an even brighter future. -[4352.54 --> 4352.64] Right? -[4352.64 --> 4354.70] Joseph realizes here that he doesn't have -[4354.70 --> 4356.82] to be overwhelmed about the past -[4356.82 --> 4360.80] or the present because he, in his son, -[4361.10 --> 4364.68] is being shown a promise for the future. -[4366.46 --> 4369.04] The other name that Joseph gives here -[4369.04 --> 4371.74] to his second son is Ephraim, -[4372.04 --> 4373.74] which literally means fruitful. -[4373.98 --> 4375.62] Or there's this interesting Hebrew thing -[4375.62 --> 4377.56] going on there that could mean -[4377.56 --> 4378.74] doubly fruitful. -[4378.74 --> 4383.36] And from the perspective of his fruitfulness, -[4383.92 --> 4386.00] right, from the perspective where Joseph is standing, -[4386.34 --> 4387.82] hindsight being what it is, -[4388.60 --> 4390.62] Joseph can see God's hand. -[4391.60 --> 4394.46] And because he is able to see God working for good, -[4394.56 --> 4396.94] all the suffering that he had to go through, -[4397.20 --> 4399.74] his perspective changes. -[4401.12 --> 4402.98] And so the God hint that I want us to hear -[4402.98 --> 4405.66] and see out of this is just a little phrase, -[4405.66 --> 4408.80] seeing the good that comes. -[4410.00 --> 4411.66] Seeing the good that comes. -[4414.22 --> 4415.64] And I want you to hear -[4415.64 --> 4421.40] is seeing the good that comes happens -[4421.40 --> 4427.08] when we tell stories -[4427.08 --> 4430.74] of seeing God at work. -[4430.74 --> 4434.26] That's what our stories do. -[4435.92 --> 4437.36] But only if you tell them. -[4440.36 --> 4441.36] Now let me be clear. -[4444.00 --> 4445.44] Not all of us, -[4446.44 --> 4448.36] maybe even most of us, -[4449.36 --> 4452.46] but not all of us -[4452.46 --> 4456.06] will have a visible good -[4456.06 --> 4457.66] that comes out of our story. -[4457.66 --> 4459.80] least of all, -[4459.88 --> 4460.84] one that we can see. -[4461.84 --> 4462.92] And especially -[4462.92 --> 4464.40] when you are in the midst -[4464.40 --> 4465.38] of the dark night, -[4465.46 --> 4466.20] when you are in the midst -[4466.20 --> 4467.64] of the trial of suffering, -[4467.90 --> 4468.80] when you are in the midst -[4468.80 --> 4470.92] of crumpled on the driveway -[4470.92 --> 4472.06] of your house, -[4472.48 --> 4473.50] crying at the death -[4473.50 --> 4474.22] of your friend, -[4474.60 --> 4475.92] seeing anything -[4475.92 --> 4477.16] in our stories -[4477.16 --> 4477.92] can be hard. -[4481.48 --> 4482.68] But that's why -[4482.68 --> 4485.24] when you are blessed -[4485.24 --> 4486.50] to see something, -[4486.90 --> 4489.08] we have to share it. -[4490.70 --> 4491.98] If you're looking at something -[4491.98 --> 4492.76] from the perspective -[4492.76 --> 4493.38] of hindsight -[4493.38 --> 4495.66] and you can see God's hand -[4495.66 --> 4496.46] in the midst of it, -[4496.80 --> 4497.66] tell someone. -[4499.84 --> 4502.04] Stories of God's transformation -[4502.04 --> 4503.26] in us -[4503.26 --> 4505.42] fuel God's transformation -[4505.42 --> 4506.14] in others. -[4506.56 --> 4508.12] Stories of God's presence -[4508.12 --> 4509.14] with us -[4509.14 --> 4511.18] in those kinds of moments -[4511.18 --> 4513.12] is God's presence -[4513.12 --> 4513.88] with us -[4513.88 --> 4515.28] in other moments. -[4516.84 --> 4517.72] Now again, -[4518.56 --> 4519.36] let me be -[4519.36 --> 4520.04] really, -[4520.28 --> 4521.06] really clear. -[4522.64 --> 4523.24] Right? -[4523.30 --> 4524.40] Because saying -[4524.40 --> 4525.26] that there is -[4525.26 --> 4526.70] a good that comes -[4526.70 --> 4528.34] doesn't mean -[4528.34 --> 4529.88] the thing that you experienced -[4529.88 --> 4530.46] is good. -[4531.82 --> 4532.92] Can we hear that? -[4533.68 --> 4534.80] Can we understand that? -[4535.80 --> 4536.10] Right? -[4536.14 --> 4536.94] It means -[4536.94 --> 4537.64] that God -[4537.64 --> 4538.50] is sovereign -[4538.50 --> 4540.04] and that he can turn -[4540.04 --> 4540.64] to good -[4540.64 --> 4542.20] even the greatest evil. -[4542.56 --> 4544.28] The gospel guarantees that. -[4545.62 --> 4546.46] It means -[4546.46 --> 4547.00] that God -[4547.00 --> 4547.64] is sovereign -[4547.64 --> 4548.58] and he can bring -[4548.58 --> 4550.44] glorious and beautiful things -[4550.44 --> 4551.94] out of brokenness. -[4552.90 --> 4553.00] Right? -[4553.04 --> 4554.06] Seeing the good -[4554.06 --> 4554.82] that comes -[4554.82 --> 4556.48] is a recognition -[4556.48 --> 4557.76] that were it not -[4557.76 --> 4558.80] for that thing, -[4559.08 --> 4559.98] awful and evil -[4559.98 --> 4560.66] though it was, -[4560.92 --> 4562.84] I wouldn't be here -[4562.84 --> 4563.68] right now. -[4564.36 --> 4565.08] Seeing the good -[4565.08 --> 4565.66] that comes -[4565.66 --> 4565.92] says, -[4566.34 --> 4566.96] I don't know -[4566.96 --> 4568.36] what or how -[4568.36 --> 4569.42] but I know -[4569.42 --> 4570.48] that he can. -[4573.02 --> 4575.46] I share these stories -[4575.46 --> 4576.28] and I invite you -[4576.28 --> 4577.68] to share your own stories -[4577.68 --> 4580.52] so that we can see -[4580.52 --> 4582.44] that God works -[4582.44 --> 4584.84] with our suffering. -[4584.98 --> 4586.64] He uses suffering. -[4586.82 --> 4587.96] God reveals himself -[4587.96 --> 4588.54] in glory -[4588.54 --> 4589.54] through suffering. -[4589.96 --> 4591.28] God can use suffering -[4591.28 --> 4593.44] to bring great joy. -[4593.44 --> 4595.96] sowing seeds -[4595.96 --> 4597.18] with sorrow. -[4598.90 --> 4599.50] And maybe, -[4599.98 --> 4600.70] maybe -[4600.70 --> 4602.40] if you are truly blessed -[4602.40 --> 4603.42] you will see that -[4603.42 --> 4604.76] in this life -[4604.76 --> 4605.10] but -[4605.10 --> 4606.32] for sure -[4606.32 --> 4608.20] you will in the next. -[4610.28 --> 4611.34] Either way -[4611.34 --> 4612.80] it's good -[4612.80 --> 4615.66] because he is God -[4615.66 --> 4616.84] and he -[4616.84 --> 4617.50] is -[4617.50 --> 4618.32] good. -[4619.84 --> 4620.94] And sometimes, -[4621.22 --> 4621.42] right, -[4621.42 --> 4621.90] sometimes -[4621.90 --> 4623.96] we get to know -[4623.96 --> 4625.00] what and how. -[4626.70 --> 4627.68] And that's why -[4627.68 --> 4628.32] it's important -[4628.32 --> 4630.12] to share these stories. -[4630.98 --> 4632.46] We don't all have stories -[4632.46 --> 4633.64] like the ones I shared. -[4633.98 --> 4635.16] We don't all have stories -[4635.16 --> 4635.42] of -[4635.42 --> 4637.04] seeing -[4637.04 --> 4639.22] good or joy -[4639.22 --> 4639.92] coming out -[4639.92 --> 4641.48] of these struggles. -[4642.36 --> 4643.74] We don't all have stories -[4643.74 --> 4644.28] of suffering -[4644.28 --> 4645.04] turned to triumph -[4645.04 --> 4646.00] or of mourning -[4646.00 --> 4646.68] turned to joy. -[4646.82 --> 4648.14] But we all suffer. -[4648.14 --> 4650.58] And sometimes, -[4650.86 --> 4651.16] right, -[4651.24 --> 4651.94] it is just -[4651.94 --> 4652.90] good -[4652.90 --> 4653.76] to remember -[4653.76 --> 4654.94] that God -[4654.94 --> 4656.08] does bring -[4656.08 --> 4657.20] good -[4657.20 --> 4658.18] out of -[4658.18 --> 4659.16] suffering. -[4659.96 --> 4660.92] And that's the point -[4660.92 --> 4661.54] in these stories, -[4661.64 --> 4661.80] right? -[4662.06 --> 4662.80] Knowing what -[4662.80 --> 4663.48] and how -[4663.48 --> 4664.50] really isn't -[4664.50 --> 4665.20] the thing here. -[4665.70 --> 4666.44] It's knowing -[4666.44 --> 4667.04] that. -[4668.28 --> 4669.16] Knowing just -[4669.16 --> 4669.84] how God -[4669.84 --> 4670.28] will turn -[4670.28 --> 4671.24] suffering to good -[4671.24 --> 4672.26] and his glory -[4672.26 --> 4673.58] isn't ultimately -[4673.58 --> 4674.26] what matters. -[4674.58 --> 4675.12] It's knowing -[4675.12 --> 4676.26] that God -[4676.26 --> 4677.08] will turn -[4677.08 --> 4677.70] our present -[4677.70 --> 4678.16] suffering -[4678.16 --> 4678.98] to glory, -[4679.10 --> 4679.66] our present -[4679.66 --> 4680.02] mourning -[4680.02 --> 4681.10] to rejoicing. -[4681.58 --> 4682.10] The tears -[4682.10 --> 4683.00] will be wiped -[4683.00 --> 4683.32] away, -[4683.42 --> 4684.22] either in this -[4684.22 --> 4685.14] life or in -[4685.14 --> 4685.96] the next. -[4688.12 --> 4689.06] And so we -[4689.06 --> 4689.98] tell stories -[4689.98 --> 4691.12] as a way -[4691.12 --> 4692.06] of practicing -[4692.06 --> 4693.44] and embodying -[4693.44 --> 4694.10] this truth. -[4695.64 --> 4696.58] I wanted to -[4696.58 --> 4697.84] illustrate -[4697.84 --> 4698.68] why this matters -[4698.68 --> 4699.86] and this will -[4699.86 --> 4700.64] land for some of you. -[4700.72 --> 4701.14] I'll give another -[4701.14 --> 4701.58] illustration -[4701.58 --> 4702.10] just to land -[4702.10 --> 4702.80] for another. -[4704.02 --> 4704.50] If you ever -[4704.50 --> 4705.26] watch baseball, -[4705.26 --> 4707.66] and I'll say -[4707.66 --> 4708.68] professional baseball -[4708.68 --> 4709.66] or Aaron Alkema, -[4710.42 --> 4711.44] when he warms -[4711.44 --> 4711.84] up, -[4712.76 --> 4712.90] right, -[4712.94 --> 4713.56] when professional -[4713.56 --> 4714.32] baseball players -[4714.32 --> 4714.96] warm up, -[4715.14 --> 4715.84] they put this -[4715.84 --> 4716.68] sleeve on the -[4716.68 --> 4717.06] end of their -[4717.06 --> 4717.64] bat or they -[4717.64 --> 4718.26] grab two -[4718.26 --> 4718.72] bats, -[4719.14 --> 4719.32] right, -[4719.36 --> 4720.12] and they swing -[4720.12 --> 4720.72] that bat -[4720.72 --> 4722.28] weighted as it -[4722.28 --> 4722.58] is, -[4722.98 --> 4723.78] extra heavy -[4723.78 --> 4724.72] as it is, -[4724.76 --> 4725.74] so that when -[4725.74 --> 4726.20] they get in -[4726.20 --> 4726.94] the batter's box -[4726.94 --> 4727.32] and they have -[4727.32 --> 4727.84] to face the -[4727.84 --> 4728.36] real thing, -[4728.86 --> 4729.38] swinging that -[4729.38 --> 4730.22] stick is easy -[4730.22 --> 4730.72] as breeze. -[4730.72 --> 4733.36] you take -[4733.36 --> 4733.82] on the -[4733.82 --> 4734.74] extra weight -[4734.74 --> 4735.92] so that when -[4735.92 --> 4736.50] you have to -[4736.50 --> 4737.14] face it, -[4737.84 --> 4738.96] it's easier -[4738.96 --> 4739.68] and you're -[4739.68 --> 4739.92] ready. -[4740.38 --> 4741.08] That's why we -[4741.08 --> 4741.72] share stories. -[4742.70 --> 4743.40] Taking on -[4743.40 --> 4744.10] each other's -[4744.10 --> 4744.56] weight, -[4745.70 --> 4746.34] seeing God -[4746.34 --> 4747.08] at work. -[4748.12 --> 4748.58] Another way -[4748.58 --> 4749.22] to think about -[4749.22 --> 4749.46] this, -[4750.26 --> 4751.48] I have a -[4751.48 --> 4752.02] friend who's -[4752.02 --> 4752.54] a construction -[4752.54 --> 4752.94] worker, -[4753.90 --> 4754.58] and by all -[4754.58 --> 4754.96] accounts, -[4755.08 --> 4755.46] the physical -[4755.46 --> 4756.14] nature of -[4756.14 --> 4756.68] her job -[4756.68 --> 4757.72] keeps her -[4757.72 --> 4758.50] strong and -[4758.50 --> 4759.54] fit and in -[4759.54 --> 4761.58] shape because -[4761.58 --> 4762.22] of the kind -[4762.22 --> 4762.62] of work she -[4762.62 --> 4763.60] does for 12 -[4763.60 --> 4764.34] hours a day, -[4764.74 --> 4766.82] but she's -[4766.82 --> 4767.90] up at 4.30 -[4767.90 --> 4768.68] every morning -[4768.68 --> 4770.14] three days a -[4770.14 --> 4770.72] week in the -[4770.72 --> 4771.80] gym working -[4771.80 --> 4772.56] out and -[4772.56 --> 4773.20] lifting weights -[4773.20 --> 4775.42] because lifting -[4775.42 --> 4776.30] those heavy -[4776.30 --> 4776.74] weights, -[4777.14 --> 4778.18] lifting those -[4778.18 --> 4779.12] regular, -[4779.30 --> 4779.72] those heavy -[4779.72 --> 4779.98] weights -[4779.98 --> 4781.26] regularly makes -[4781.26 --> 4782.16] the everyday -[4782.16 --> 4783.50] lifting more -[4783.50 --> 4784.04] manageable. -[4785.26 --> 4786.30] She can endure -[4786.30 --> 4788.18] longer as a -[4788.18 --> 4788.52] result. -[4789.54 --> 4790.64] That's why we -[4790.64 --> 4791.38] tell stories. -[4793.14 --> 4793.76] Now there's -[4793.76 --> 4794.34] part of me -[4794.34 --> 4795.14] in these -[4795.14 --> 4795.42] moments, -[4795.50 --> 4796.36] I'm sure it's -[4796.36 --> 4796.82] true for you -[4796.82 --> 4796.98] too, -[4797.06 --> 4797.38] that says, -[4798.46 --> 4799.06] you know, -[4799.28 --> 4800.18] I would -[4800.18 --> 4801.04] rather know -[4801.04 --> 4802.20] exactly what -[4802.20 --> 4803.00] and exactly -[4803.00 --> 4804.10] how because -[4804.10 --> 4804.88] then I'll -[4804.88 --> 4805.28] know what -[4805.28 --> 4805.66] I'm looking -[4805.66 --> 4806.10] for. -[4808.56 --> 4809.20] But then -[4809.20 --> 4809.66] there's part -[4809.66 --> 4810.96] of me that -[4810.96 --> 4811.48] wonders, -[4811.86 --> 4812.28] the more -[4812.28 --> 4813.12] trusting part -[4813.12 --> 4813.68] of me that -[4813.68 --> 4814.46] wants to -[4814.46 --> 4814.92] lean into -[4814.92 --> 4815.28] God, -[4815.82 --> 4816.02] right? -[4817.14 --> 4817.82] Do I -[4817.82 --> 4818.42] really want -[4818.42 --> 4818.88] to limit -[4818.88 --> 4820.18] God in -[4820.18 --> 4820.60] that way? -[4823.26 --> 4823.78] Precisely -[4823.78 --> 4824.54] because I -[4824.54 --> 4824.96] can't -[4824.96 --> 4825.80] understand it, -[4826.30 --> 4826.92] that's why -[4826.92 --> 4827.26] I have -[4827.26 --> 4827.56] hope. -[4828.64 --> 4829.18] Precisely -[4829.18 --> 4829.62] because it -[4829.62 --> 4829.92] doesn't make -[4829.92 --> 4830.52] sense to me -[4830.52 --> 4831.10] right now -[4831.10 --> 4831.72] in this -[4831.72 --> 4832.42] moment and -[4832.42 --> 4832.88] because I -[4832.88 --> 4833.50] may never -[4833.50 --> 4834.04] see, -[4834.30 --> 4834.94] I can -[4834.94 --> 4835.84] call on -[4835.84 --> 4836.34] God my -[4836.34 --> 4836.68] Father. -[4837.48 --> 4837.62] Right? -[4837.68 --> 4838.08] And His -[4838.08 --> 4838.66] ways are -[4838.66 --> 4839.22] not my -[4839.22 --> 4839.54] ways, -[4839.68 --> 4840.14] nor are -[4840.14 --> 4840.84] my thoughts -[4840.84 --> 4841.34] His -[4841.34 --> 4841.66] thoughts. -[4841.84 --> 4842.18] And you -[4842.18 --> 4842.52] know what? -[4843.10 --> 4843.78] Praise Jesus -[4843.78 --> 4844.36] for that. -[4846.06 --> 4846.78] Because if -[4846.78 --> 4847.26] they were, -[4848.02 --> 4848.70] you guys -[4848.70 --> 4849.84] would be -[4849.84 --> 4850.12] screwed. -[4853.54 --> 4854.26] Our God -[4854.26 --> 4854.94] tells us -[4854.94 --> 4855.96] in 2 Corinthians -[4855.96 --> 4857.70] 4 that -[4857.70 --> 4858.36] our lights -[4858.36 --> 4859.40] and momentary -[4859.40 --> 4860.14] troubles are -[4860.14 --> 4860.96] achieving for -[4860.96 --> 4861.44] us an -[4861.44 --> 4862.40] eternal glory -[4862.40 --> 4863.10] that far -[4863.10 --> 4863.76] outweighs -[4863.76 --> 4864.30] them all. -[4866.06 --> 4866.46] Here's -[4866.46 --> 4867.32] what I want -[4867.32 --> 4867.64] you to hear, -[4867.78 --> 4867.96] right? -[4868.40 --> 4869.46] Only from a -[4869.46 --> 4870.70] perspective of -[4870.70 --> 4871.58] eternity -[4871.58 --> 4872.96] can we -[4872.96 --> 4873.72] say that -[4873.72 --> 4874.20] our troubles -[4874.20 --> 4875.02] are momentary. -[4876.36 --> 4877.06] And only -[4877.06 --> 4877.52] from a -[4877.52 --> 4878.02] perspective -[4878.02 --> 4879.00] that includes -[4879.00 --> 4879.58] the weight -[4879.58 --> 4880.38] of glory -[4880.38 --> 4881.20] can we -[4881.20 --> 4881.78] say that -[4881.78 --> 4882.22] our troubles -[4882.22 --> 4882.74] are light. -[4884.14 --> 4884.88] But our -[4884.88 --> 4885.56] story, -[4885.80 --> 4886.94] our stories, -[4887.30 --> 4888.06] and therefore -[4888.06 --> 4889.24] our storytelling -[4889.24 --> 4890.28] includes -[4890.28 --> 4890.86] eternity -[4890.86 --> 4892.14] and includes -[4892.14 --> 4892.84] God's glory. -[4894.42 --> 4895.00] And because -[4895.00 --> 4895.52] of that, -[4895.62 --> 4896.52] I can see -[4896.52 --> 4897.16] the good -[4897.16 --> 4898.06] that comes -[4898.06 --> 4898.92] in other -[4898.92 --> 4899.42] stories. -[4899.64 --> 4900.24] Because I -[4900.24 --> 4900.74] can see -[4900.74 --> 4901.20] the good -[4901.20 --> 4901.74] that comes -[4901.74 --> 4902.22] in part -[4902.22 --> 4902.74] of my -[4902.74 --> 4903.22] story. -[4903.38 --> 4904.42] Because God -[4904.42 --> 4905.90] himself promises -[4905.90 --> 4906.44] that our -[4906.44 --> 4907.50] present sufferings -[4907.50 --> 4908.14] are not worth -[4908.14 --> 4908.84] comparing to -[4908.84 --> 4909.48] the glory -[4909.48 --> 4910.26] that will be -[4910.26 --> 4910.92] revealed in -[4910.92 --> 4911.14] us. -[4911.32 --> 4912.08] Because my -[4912.08 --> 4912.98] God is so -[4912.98 --> 4914.04] big, so -[4914.04 --> 4915.20] sovereign, he -[4915.20 --> 4916.32] is able to -[4916.32 --> 4917.26] do even -[4917.26 --> 4918.34] more than I -[4918.34 --> 4919.08] can ask -[4919.08 --> 4920.18] or imagine. -[4921.72 --> 4922.66] And in the -[4922.66 --> 4923.80] midst of -[4923.80 --> 4924.40] darkness, -[4925.12 --> 4926.68] that's the -[4926.68 --> 4927.26] kind of God -[4927.26 --> 4927.70] I need. -[4928.70 --> 4928.98] Amen? -[4929.94 --> 4930.70] Let's pray -[4930.70 --> 4931.00] together. -[4931.20 --> 4942.76] Father God, -[4942.82 --> 4943.38] we are about -[4943.38 --> 4944.02] to sing, -[4944.56 --> 4945.70] though you -[4945.70 --> 4946.76] slay me, -[4947.82 --> 4948.56] yet I will -[4948.56 --> 4949.38] praise you. -[4950.36 --> 4951.18] Some of us -[4951.18 --> 4952.04] come to -[4952.04 --> 4952.76] worship today -[4952.76 --> 4953.48] feeling pretty -[4953.48 --> 4953.96] slain. -[4955.24 --> 4956.04] Some of us -[4956.04 --> 4956.38] come to -[4956.38 --> 4957.10] worship today -[4957.10 --> 4958.42] carrying the -[4958.42 --> 4958.96] heavy weight -[4958.96 --> 4959.58] of suffering -[4959.58 --> 4960.28] and trial. -[4962.50 --> 4963.24] May we -[4963.24 --> 4963.78] carry that -[4963.78 --> 4964.42] into worship -[4964.42 --> 4965.02] to you. -[4969.48 --> 4970.22] God, you -[4970.22 --> 4970.80] have said that -[4970.80 --> 4971.28] our troubles -[4971.28 --> 4971.92] are light -[4971.92 --> 4972.88] and momentary. -[4974.88 --> 4975.84] And for many -[4975.84 --> 4976.26] of us, -[4976.30 --> 4976.56] they don't -[4976.56 --> 4977.28] feel that -[4977.28 --> 4977.52] way. -[4980.20 --> 4981.10] And I pray -[4981.10 --> 4982.20] today that we -[4982.20 --> 4983.16] would trust -[4983.16 --> 4984.56] you and your -[4984.56 --> 4985.80] word to define -[4985.80 --> 4986.68] our reality, -[4987.04 --> 4987.92] not our -[4987.92 --> 4988.60] feelings or -[4988.60 --> 4989.28] our perceptions -[4989.28 --> 4989.94] of it. -[4991.76 --> 4992.92] That you -[4992.92 --> 4993.80] and your -[4993.80 --> 4994.82] word would -[4994.82 --> 4996.06] define our -[4996.06 --> 4996.94] experiences. -[4996.94 --> 4997.14] promises. -[5001.14 --> 5002.12] And so may -[5002.12 --> 5003.30] we taste -[5003.30 --> 5006.32] that eternal -[5006.32 --> 5007.16] glory that -[5007.16 --> 5007.96] far outweighs -[5007.96 --> 5008.42] them all. -[5010.62 --> 5011.62] And as we -[5011.62 --> 5013.04] share our -[5013.04 --> 5013.94] stories, -[5014.94 --> 5015.86] may you -[5015.86 --> 5016.34] give us -[5016.34 --> 5017.04] eyes of -[5017.04 --> 5017.74] faith to -[5017.74 --> 5018.96] see you -[5018.96 --> 5020.92] at work. -[5020.92 --> 5022.40] in Jesus -[5022.40 --> 5023.04] Christ we -[5023.04 --> 5023.32] pray. -[5024.28 --> 5024.60] Amen. -[5024.60 --> 5024.72] Amen. -[5024.72 --> 5054.70] Thank you. -[5054.72 --> 5084.70] Thank you. -[5084.72 --> 5086.72] Thank you. -[5114.72 --> 5116.72] Thank you. -[5144.72 --> 5146.72] Thank you. -[5146.72 --> 5148.72] Thank you. -[5176.72 --> 5178.72] Thank you. -[5206.72 --> 5208.72] Thank you. -[5236.72 --> 5238.72] Thank you. -[5238.72 --> 5240.72] Thank you. -[5240.72 --> 5242.72] Thank you. -[5242.72 --> 5244.72] Thank you. -[5244.72 --> 5246.72] Thank you. -[5246.72 --> 5248.72] Thank you. -[5248.72 --> 5250.72] Thank you. -[5250.72 --> 5252.72] Thank you. -[5252.72 --> 5254.72] Thank you. -[5254.72 --> 5268.72] as you go into the stories of faith that God is crafting around you know that God himself -[5268.72 --> 5277.76] goes with you and in case you didn't hear it go telling the stories of how you've seen God at work -[5277.76 --> 5283.66] in your care groups your friend groups in your small groups in your work groups -[5283.66 --> 5295.24] wherever it is tell the story of God at work and go with God receive his blessing for the journey -[5295.24 --> 5305.96] God go before you to lead you God go behind you to protect you God go beneath you to support you and -[5305.96 --> 5313.48] God go beside you to befriend you do not be afraid let the blessing of God come upon you today -[5313.48 --> 5323.38] do not be afraid but go in peace to love and serve the Lord amen -[5323.38 --> 5333.28] you -[5333.28 --> 5343.18] you -[5343.18 --> 5345.18] you -[5345.18 --> 5346.18] you -[5346.18 --> 5356.08] you -[5356.08 --> 5357.08] you -[5357.08 --> 5359.08] you -[5359.08 --> 5362.08] you -[5362.08 --> 5363.08] you -[5363.08 --> 5366.08] you -[5366.08 --> 5375.98] you -[5375.98 --> 5378.98] you -[5378.98 --> 5381.98] you -[5381.98 --> 5397.88] you -[5397.88 --> 5399.88] you -[5399.88 --> 5401.88] you -[5401.88 --> 5403.88] you -[5403.88 --> 5407.88] you -[5407.88 --> 5429.78] you -[5429.78 --> 5433.78] you -[5433.78 --> 5455.68] you -[5455.68 --> 5459.68] you -[5459.68 --> 5460.58] you -[5460.58 --> 5469.58] you -[5469.58 --> 5481.58] you -[5481.58 --> 5485.58] you -[5485.58 --> 5495.48] you -[5495.48 --> 5496.48] you -[5496.48 --> 5511.48] you -[5511.48 --> 5512.48] you -[5512.48 --> 5522.38] you -[5522.38 --> 5524.38] you -[5524.38 --> 5526.38] you -[5526.38 --> 5530.38] you -[5530.38 --> 5534.38] you -[5534.38 --> 5538.38] you -[5538.38 --> 5539.38] you -[5539.38 --> 5549.28] you -[5549.28 --> 5553.28] you -[5553.28 --> 5561.28] you -[5561.28 --> 5563.28] you -[5563.28 --> 5565.28] you -[5565.28 --> 5567.28] you -[5567.28 --> 5568.18] you -[5568.18 --> 5569.18] you -[5569.18 --> 5581.18] you -[5581.18 --> 5593.18] you -[5593.18 --> 5594.18] you -[5594.18 --> 5595.18] you -[5595.18 --> 5597.18] you -[5597.18 --> 5614.08] you -[5614.08 --> 5615.08] you -[5615.08 --> 5619.08] you -[5619.08 --> 5621.08] you -[5621.08 --> 5622.08] you -[5622.08 --> 5623.08] you -[5623.08 --> 5625.08] you -[5625.08 --> 5625.98] I know. -[5647.76 --> 5649.74] If you're just trying to remember, I couldn't do anything. -[5655.08 --> 5657.52] If you're just trying to remember, I couldn't do anything. -[5657.52 --> 5658.52] I couldn't do anything. -[5658.52 --> 5659.92] This isn't all anymore. -[5659.92 --> 5660.68] I'm not sure. -[5660.68 --> 5661.72] Are you making mistakes? -[5661.72 --> 5663.32] I'm 100% young. -[5663.32 --> 5664.32] I'm not sure. -[5664.32 --> 5665.32] I'm not sure. -[5665.32 --> 5666.92] I think you've made up this morning, I guess. -[5666.92 --> 5668.42] I'm not a slut. -[5668.42 --> 5668.92] I'm not a slut. -[5668.92 --> 5669.42] I'm not a slut. -[5669.42 --> 5670.42] I'm not a slut. -[5670.42 --> 5671.42] I'm not a slut. -[5671.42 --> 5672.42] I'm not a slut. -[5685.08 --> 5687.12] I'm not a slut. -[5687.12 --> 5689.60] I'll not seem to be alright. -[5689.60 --> 5692.08] 175 버�210 -[5692.26 --> 5693.74] 준 -[5693.74 --> 5698.72] gate -[5698.72 --> 5701.92] gate -[5702.48 --> 5704.52] gate -[5704.52 --> 5709.96] gate -[5709.96 --> 5710.96] gate -[5710.96 --> 5712.74] gate -[5712.74 --> 5716.06] Everything said will be made untrue. -[5716.06 --> 5723.38] And all, it's gonna be a celebration all of creation longs for. -[5723.76 --> 5733.96] And while we're waiting for that day to come, we've got a little more time to love. -[5733.96 --> 5747.64] There are little ones hungry for love of a family, and so many hungry for bread. -[5748.12 --> 5753.86] On the left and the right, surrounded by the last and the least. -[5756.08 --> 5763.82] And just down the street, and just across the table, hungry hearts are waiting to be fed. -[5764.40 --> 5770.22] Cause deep in our soul, we're all longing to be at the feast. -[5772.34 --> 5776.52] But until we sit down, for there's more than enough. -[5776.86 --> 5780.96] Let us give as we've been given, and love as we belong. -[5782.16 --> 5789.22] There is a day that is coming, when all the last will be first. -[5789.22 --> 5797.28] Every orphan will be home, and all will be filled with hunger and thirst. -[5797.28 --> 5804.12] It's gonna be a celebration all of creation longs for. -[5804.12 --> 5814.90] And while we're waiting for that day to come, we've got a little more time to do justly. -[5814.90 --> 5820.06] And love mercy, and show the love we've been shown. -[5820.06 --> 5830.12] For we can only be the hands and feet of Jesus till He leads us home. -[5830.12 --> 5837.12] He will lead us home. -[5840.56 --> 5844.04] There's a day that is coming. -[5844.04 --> 5848.18] A day that never will end. -[5848.18 --> 5856.02] There in the light of His glory, everything broken will be whole again. -[5856.02 --> 5863.30] And this will be the celebration all of creation longs for. -[5863.30 --> 5880.30] And while we're waiting for that day to come, we've got a little more time to do just a little more time to do. -[5880.30 --> 5894.14] Love -[5894.14 --> 5900.36] Just a little more time to love -[5900.36 --> 5930.34] Thank you. -[5930.36 --> 5960.34] Thank you. -[5960.36 --> 5962.36] Thank you. -[5990.36 --> 5992.36] Thank you. -[6020.36 --> 6022.36] Thank you. -[6050.36 --> 6052.36] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, November 24, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, November 24, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 59268b74ff0c0f976c25b596efc80ab73c65bc43..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, November 24, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,192 +0,0 @@ -• The speaker encourages the listener not to settle for being alone -• The speaker's love is for the listener and not against them -• The speaker compares their love to the drops in the ocean, implying its depth and width -• The speaker urges the listener to open their heart and start again -• The importance of feeling loved and valued, rather than striving for perfection -• The theme of God's love and mercy being sufficient for the listener's needs -• Encouragement to live freely and be who they were made to be -• Worship services and announcements -• Upcoming women's Christmas event -• Church activities and events -• Baptisms, professions of faith, and welcoming new members -• Miracles and God's presence in difficult times -• Setting up a space for an event -• Upcoming youth ministry event on March 20, 2020 at 6:30 PM -• Pastor Kevin available to answer questions about the event -• Special Sunday worship service and welcoming new members -• Invitation to extend God's greeting to others during worship -• Reading of Revelation 5 verse 13 and singing a song to the Lamb -• Worshiping as you are -• Coming before God -• Bowing to Him in worship and surrender -• Choosing to give your all to God -• Singing the song of ages to the end -• Praising God's name as highest and greatest -• Recognizing God's power and position above all else -• Worship and praise to God -• Prayer for closeness with God and cherishing His Word -• Psalm 119 verses 10-16 prayed as a request to cherish and delight in God's Word -• Discussion of surrendering life to Jesus Christ at the cross -• Reflection on finding peace with God and healing from sin and shame through love -• Discussion of a baptism ceremony -• Reflection on life and impact on others by the speaker, Johanna -• Embodying the fruits of the Spirit and being a follower of Jesus -• Reading of Ephesians 4:14-16 about growth in Christ -• Commendation to Johanna for her commitment to Jesus and the body of Christ -• Gift from the church to celebrate her profession -• Baptism ceremony continues -• Professions of faith and baptismal commitments -• Questions and affirmations of faith for those who have professed it in their baptism -• Invitation to join the church family and participate fully -• Affirmation of faith in God's mission through Langley Emmanuel -• Commitment to follow Jesus as Savior and Lord, and to strengthen relationship with him -• Recognition of church oversight and authority -• Baptism of McKenna and Elizabeth, infant children of Johanna and Mike -• Explanation of the practice of baptizing infants based on biblical tradition -• Covenant relationship between God and his people through baptism -• Questions for parents regarding faith and commitment to raising their children in the Christian faith -• Invitation for all children to participate in the baptism ceremony -• Baptism of McKenna, Elizabeth, and Johanna -• Congregation's promise of support and love to the families -• Welcome of new members into the church family -• Introduction of visitors from other churches: Jane Van Druten, Faye Shonit, Claus Tessemaker, and the Wagonar family -• Prayer for continued mission and ministry in the community -• Gifts from the church to the new members -• Prayer for the church and its provision -• Testimonies of faith from those present -• Praise and worship through music -• Invitation to give offerings in support of Wagner Hills and the church's benevolence fund -• Introduction to the importance of exceeding the budget and collecting $100,000 over the next month -• Final words of encouragement and gratitude -• The speaker leads a prayer, asking for divine guidance and strength. -• The speaker invites children aged 3-4th grade to join the "Children's Worship Time" program. -• Upcoming events mentioned include the Try Soup Tournament and Fall AGM. -• A family prayer is led, acknowledging various emotions and feelings in the congregation. -• The speaker asks God to remind them that His work has already been done through Jesus Christ. -• Gratitude for new members, baptisms, and professions of faith -• Prayer for guidance and support for new members as they find their place in the congregation -• Prayer for those struggling with various issues including health problems, addiction, anxiety, and grief -• Specific prayers for individuals dealing with illness or injury, including Linda Rook, Ernst de Vries' family, Mary Fitzma's hip surgery, Clary Kosterhof's dad, Ashley and her family -• Prayer for Pastor Chris and his message that morning -• Introduction to the story of Joseph in Genesis 50:15. -• The speaker plans to discuss the concept of forgiveness in a Christian context -• The idea of forgiveness is foundational and central to being a Christian -• A quote from C.S. Lewis is mentioned, highlighting that people often think forgiveness is a good idea until they have something to forgive -• The story of Joseph will be discussed as an example related to the topic of forgiveness -• Jacob's favoritism towards Joseph and its consequences are mentioned -• Joseph's brothers are jealous and hurt by their father Jacob's favoritism towards him. -• Joseph has two dreams that foretell his family's submission to him. -• Joseph's brothers plot against him while he is out tending flocks, but instead of killing him, they sell him to a group of traders who take him to Egypt. -• The brothers bring back his beautiful robe, covered in dirt and blood, to their father, leading him to believe Joseph has been killed. -• Joseph becomes a slave in the house of Potiphar, where he prospers but is eventually falsely accused by Potiphar's wife and thrown into an Egyptian prison. -• While in prison, Joseph interprets dreams for his fellow inmates. -• Joseph interprets Pharaoh's dreams and advises him to prepare for seven years of famine -• Joseph is put in charge of Egypt and implements his plan to store grain, leading to Egypt's prosperity during the famine -• Joseph's brothers come to buy grain but do not recognize him as their sibling -• Joseph tests his brothers over several meetings, requiring them to bring Benjamin back to Egypt before revealing his true identity -• Judah's decision to offer his life for Benjamin -• Comparison between Judah's actions in the beginning and near the end of the story -• Judah's sacrifice as a substitutionary offering, taking Benjamin's place -• Joseph's emotional response when he reveals himself to his brothers -• Joseph's forgiveness and acceptance of his brothers' apology -• Jacob's death and the resulting concern from his brothers that Joseph will take revenge -• Joseph's brothers treat him badly and later come to Egypt, throwing themselves at his feet -• Joseph reassures them that God intended their evil intentions for good -• He promises to provide for them and their children -• Joseph lives in Egypt with his father's family for 110 years -• He sees the third generation of Ephraim's children and also Machir's descendants being placed on his knees at birth -• Joseph makes the Israelites swear an oath that God will come to their aid and carry his bones up from Egypt after he dies -• He dies at age 110, and is embalmed and placed in a coffin in Egypt -• The concept of sovereignty, specifically God's rule and reign over all creation -• God's will is not subject to chance or human control -• The idea that God is a "Big God" who rules everything -• Examples of people whose lives demonstrate the reality of God's sovereignty (e.g. Elizabeth Elliot) -• The relationship between God's sovereignty and worship -• The difference between understanding God as small and being able to be understood versus God being big and worthy of worship -• Life is full of suffering, pain, and struggles -• The world isn't as it's supposed to be -• Humans suffer in ways that can be quantified by philosophers like the Dread Pirate Roberts -• Sometimes life seems impossible to bear -• Trusting God in the midst of suffering is a theme explored in the Joseph story -• Joseph's situation and feelings about his past struggles -• God's role in Joseph's life and decisions -• The moral implications of Joseph's actions and intentions -• The nature of fate, free will, and divine intervention -• Joseph's sense of purpose and fulfillment in saving lives -• The concept of God's hiddenness and its distinction from the absence of God -• The story of Joseph and how it illustrates the relationship between God's hiddenness and human faith -• The importance of trust in God's sovereignty and bigness in one's life -• The comparison of trusting in God's sovereignty versus trusting in oneself or own power -• Being a Christian is about trusting God more than yourself -• Trusting God even when faced with challenges and difficulties -• The story of Joseph as an example of trusting in God's sovereignty -• Jesus Christ as the perfect substitutionary sacrifice for humanity's sins -• Faith and belief in Jesus as the key to salvation through grace -• Jesus' life and teachings compared to a life well-lived -• Importance of forgiveness in faith -• Wrestling with understanding God's will in times of suffering and trauma -• Seeking guidance from scripture in making sense of adversity -• Requesting forgiveness and trust in God's sovereignty -• Finding and giving forgiveness to others -• Need for forgiveness from God or other people -• Terrified about future possibilities and uncertainty -• Need to give forgiveness -• Holding onto past wrongs or traumas can prevent us from being who we truly are -• Forgiveness is necessary for personal growth and moving forward -• Trust in a higher power (God) is emphasized as a means of achieving forgiveness -• The speaker encourages listeners to offer forgiveness and let go of past hurts -• Christian profession -• Forgiveness by God's grace -• Jesus Christ as savior and lord -• Living in trust of who he is -• The picture of what it means to be a Christian from Jonathan Edwards' work -• Gracious affections turning to stone -• The heart of flesh and the heart of stone contrasted -• Contrast between a contrite/broken heart and one that is bruised with Godly sorrow -• Relationship between Christian gracious affections and being broken or bruised with Godly sorrow -• Transformation through Jesus Christ's look over someone and saying "Father, forgive them" -• Being transformed by His Grace from death to life and darkness to light -• God's graciousness defined as love, joy, and gratitude -• Christian practice as evidence of sincere profession -• Significance of practice in demonstrating sincerity -• Using the illustration of distinguishing a fig tree from an ordinary tree to show signs and evidences of a true profession -• Discussion of various ways to identify genuine signs and evidence -• Fig tree analogy for forgiveness -• Importance of the impact of trauma, trials, and struggles in forgiving someone -• The role of forgiving the impossible in achieving genuine forgiveness -• Minimizing the importance of forgiveness can hinder genuine forgiveness -• The significance of acknowledging the impact of hurt or harm caused to others -• The importance of communication in a personal experience -• Forgiveness vs erasure or forgetting -• The idea that some things cannot be forgotten, such as past traumas -• The difference between forgiveness and God forgiving someone else for them -• The concept of "big god" and personal power to forgive oneself -• Distinction between forgiving others and accepting what has happened -• Forgiveness of others -• Trauma and holding on to it -• Power of forgiveness -• God's role in forgiveness -• Praying for forgiveness -• Letting go of sin and forgiving others -• The line between right and wrong -• Possibility of forgiveness and its connection to our own forgiveness -• The nature of God as big and full of love, grace, trust, and mercy -• The importance of confession in receiving forgiveness from God -• The faithfulness and justice of God in forgiving those who confess their sins -• The process of purification from unrighteousness through the mercy of God -• The idea that if we confess our sins, God will forgive us and purify us -• Asking for forgiveness and mercy -• Experience of God's forgiving love and grace -• Ability to forgive others and model Christ-like behavior -• Being sustained in spirit and guided by God's help -• Seeking courage and bravery to give and seek forgiveness -• Praise and worship of Jesus Christ -• Themes of forgiveness, salvation, and hope through Jesus Christ -• Victory over death and sin -• Call to courage and faith despite fear -• Invitation to receive God's blessing and protection -• Celebration of the risen King and the coming wedding feast -• The joining of all nations, tribes, and individuals in a grand celebration -• A song or hymn referred to as "the song of the Lamb" -• A message from the Lord about the end time -• References to mercy and a time of unity among people and nations \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, November 24, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, November 24, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c0bb966a48050215dcc3563ffe39bb5de1fea8fc..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, November 24, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,4110 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 62.00] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 92.00] Thank you. -[92.00 --> 94.00] Thank you. -[94.00 --> 96.00] Thank you. -[96.00 --> 98.00] Thank you. -[98.00 --> 100.00] Thank you. -[100.00 --> 102.00] Thank you. -[102.00 --> 104.00] Thank you. -[104.00 --> 106.00] Thank you. -[106.00 --> 108.00] Thank you. -[108.00 --> 110.00] Thank you. -[110.00 --> 112.00] Thank you. -[112.00 --> 114.00] Thank you. -[114.00 --> 116.00] Thank you. -[118.00 --> 120.00] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 124.00] Don't think you need to settle for a substitute. -[124.00 --> 128.28] When I'm the only love that changes you -[128.28 --> 131.04] And I am for you -[131.04 --> 135.04] I'm not against you -[135.04 --> 138.72] I am for you -[138.72 --> 142.62] I'm not against you -[142.62 --> 147.88] If you wanna know how far my love can go -[147.88 --> 151.44] Just how deep, just how wide -[151.44 --> 155.34] If you wanna see how much you mean to me -[155.34 --> 159.14] Look at my hands, look at my side -[159.14 --> 164.34] If you could count the times that say you are forgiven -[164.34 --> 168.28] It's more than the drops in the ocean -[168.28 --> 175.00] It's more than the drops in the ocean -[175.00 --> 179.44] Open your heart, it's time that we start again -[181.44 --> 187.34] Open your heart, it's time that we start again -[187.34 --> 193.24] If you wanna know how far my love can go -[193.24 --> 196.54] Just how deep, just how wide -[196.54 --> 200.70] If you wanna see how much you mean to me -[200.70 --> 203.34] Look at my hands, look at my side -[203.34 --> 209.24] I'm not against you -[209.24 --> 213.24] It's more than the drops in the ocean -[213.24 --> 221.24] The drops in the ocean -[221.24 --> 229.14] I am for you -[229.14 --> 231.14] I am for you -[231.14 --> 233.14] I'm not against you -[233.14 --> 236.14] I am for you -[236.14 --> 238.14] I am for you -[238.14 --> 241.14] I am not against you -[241.14 --> 263.04] You're not the only one who feels like this -[263.04 --> 266.94] Feeling like you lose more than you win -[266.94 --> 268.94] Like life is just an endless hill -[268.94 --> 274.94] You climb, you try and try, but never arrive -[274.94 --> 276.84] I am not against you -[276.84 --> 278.84] I am telling you something -[278.84 --> 280.84] This racing, this running -[280.84 --> 282.84] Oh, you're working way too hard -[282.84 --> 284.84] You're working way too hard -[284.84 --> 286.84] And this perfection you're chasing -[286.84 --> 288.84] Is just energy wasted -[288.84 --> 290.84] Cause He loves you like you are -[290.84 --> 294.74] So go ahead and live like you're loved -[294.74 --> 298.74] It's okay to act like you've been set free -[298.74 --> 302.74] His love has made you more than enough -[302.74 --> 306.74] So go ahead and be who He made you to be -[306.74 --> 310.74] And live like you're loved -[310.74 --> 314.74] Live like you're loved -[314.74 --> 318.74] Live like you're loved -[318.74 --> 322.74] Live like you're loved -[322.74 --> 326.74] And live like you know you're valuable -[326.74 --> 330.74] Like you know the one that holds your soul -[330.74 --> 334.74] Cause mercy has called you by your name -[334.74 --> 338.74] Don't be afraid to live in that grace -[338.74 --> 341.74] Oh, I'm telling you something -[341.74 --> 343.74] This God we believe in -[343.74 --> 346.74] Yeah, He changed everything -[346.74 --> 348.74] No more guilt -[348.74 --> 349.74] No more shame -[349.74 --> 351.74] He took all that away -[351.74 --> 354.74] Gave us a reason to sing -[354.74 --> 357.74] So go ahead and live like you're loved -[357.74 --> 362.74] It's okay to act like you've been set free -[362.74 --> 365.74] His love has made you more than enough -[365.74 --> 370.74] So go ahead and be who He made you to be -[370.74 --> 372.74] And live like you're loved -[372.74 --> 374.74] And live like you're loved -[374.74 --> 376.74] Living like you're loved -[376.74 --> 378.74] Live like you're loved -[378.74 --> 380.74] Live like you're loved -[380.74 --> 382.74] Live like you're loved -[382.74 --> 384.74] Live like you're loved -[384.74 --> 386.74] Live like you're loved -[386.74 --> 387.74] Live like you're loved -[387.74 --> 388.74] Watch like you're free -[388.74 --> 390.74] Stay like you know who we made you to be -[390.74 --> 391.74] Live like you're loved -[391.74 --> 395.36] Stand like you know who he made you to be -[395.36 --> 399.36] Live like you love, like you believe -[399.36 --> 403.38] His love is all that you'll ever need -[403.38 --> 406.58] So go ahead and live like you left -[406.58 --> 414.58] His love has made you more than enough -[414.58 --> 422.56] So go ahead and live like you left -[422.56 --> 427.22] It's okay to act like you've been set free -[427.22 --> 430.90] His love has made you more than enough -[430.90 --> 435.44] So go ahead and be who he made you to be -[435.44 --> 437.36] And live like you left -[437.36 --> 441.32] Live like you left -[441.32 --> 445.32] Live like you left -[445.32 --> 447.54] Live like you left -[447.54 --> 449.32] Live like you left -[449.32 --> 451.56] Live like you left -[451.56 --> 453.44] Live like you left -[453.44 --> 455.36] Walk like you're free -[455.36 --> 459.36] Stand like you know who he made you to be -[459.36 --> 461.48] Live like you loved -[461.48 --> 463.42] Like you believe -[463.42 --> 467.42] His love is all that you'll ever need -[467.42 --> 469.66] Live like you loved -[471.32 --> 473.32] Live like you left -[473.32 --> 475.32] Live like you left -[475.32 --> 477.32] Live like you left -[477.32 --> 485.32] If you left -[485.32 --> 486.28] Live like you right -[486.28 --> 487.32] Live like you left -[487.32 --> 488.38] Live like you left -[488.38 --> 489.32] Live like you left -[489.32 --> 491.32] Once you're not -[491.32 --> 492.32] Live like you left -[492.32 --> 494.28] Live like you left -[494.28 --> 495.30] Live like you right -[495.30 --> 496.32] Live like you left -[496.32 --> 497.32] Live like you left -[497.32 --> 498.32] Far Primary -[498.32 --> 499.92] Live like you left -[499.92 --> 500.32] Live like you left -[500.32 --> 501.28] Live like I -[501.28 --> 503.32] Stop -[503.32 --> 504.32] Live like -[504.32 --> 507.84] With every option exhausted -[507.84 --> 511.96] You tried everything you know -[511.96 --> 516.52] You saw light then you lost it -[516.52 --> 519.60] But there is still hope -[519.60 --> 523.52] Like the fire in the night -[523.52 --> 527.46] Like the ocean parted wide -[527.46 --> 531.34] Like the grave empty inside -[531.34 --> 535.34] You will see he still does -[535.34 --> 542.42] Miracles, miracles, miracles, miracles -[542.42 --> 546.80] Even if you don't see it now -[546.80 --> 548.50] Without a doubt -[548.50 --> 551.30] He's already moving -[551.30 --> 554.72] There is not a pain that you hold -[554.72 --> 556.34] He doesn't know -[556.34 --> 559.16] And he isn't using -[559.16 --> 562.46] With every option exhausted -[562.46 --> 566.70] You tried everything you know -[566.70 --> 571.30] So reach for something beyond it -[571.30 --> 574.22] Cause he is our hope -[574.22 --> 578.14] Like the fire in the night -[578.14 --> 582.02] Like the ocean parted wide -[582.02 --> 585.32] Like the grave empty inside -[585.32 --> 589.94] You will see he still does -[589.94 --> 595.10] Miracles, miracles, miracles -[595.10 --> 599.40] Miracles, miracles, miracles -[599.40 --> 605.40] Miracles, miracles, miracles, miracles -[605.40 --> 609.68] A broken heart can be restored -[609.68 --> 613.68] A broken soul can be reborn -[613.68 --> 617.56] And greater things are still in store -[617.56 --> 619.56] For us, for us -[619.56 --> 622.56] For us, for us -[622.56 --> 624.56] Like the fire in the night -[624.56 --> 626.56] Like the fire in the night -[626.56 --> 629.56] Like the ocean parted wide -[629.56 --> 633.56] Like the grave empty inside -[633.56 --> 637.56] You will see he still does -[637.56 --> 647.56] Miracles, miracles, miracles -[647.56 --> 649.56] Miracles, miracles -[649.56 --> 651.56] He's still there -[651.56 --> 653.56] He's still there -[653.56 --> 655.56] Miracles, miracles -[655.56 --> 657.56] You're the new God -[657.56 --> 663.56] Good morning everyone -[663.56 --> 666.74] Welcome to church -[666.74 --> 670.56] Welcome to what invariably -[670.56 --> 672.22] Is going to be a little bit of chaos -[672.22 --> 672.88] This morning -[672.88 --> 674.62] And we're going to worship -[674.62 --> 675.38] Right through it -[675.38 --> 675.56] Amen? -[676.92 --> 677.70] Thank you -[677.70 --> 679.30] Appreciate you -[679.30 --> 681.06] My name is Chris -[681.06 --> 682.46] I'm one of the pastors here -[682.46 --> 683.86] And if you are a guest with us -[683.86 --> 684.28] This morning -[684.28 --> 685.44] We're really excited to -[685.44 --> 686.96] Have you with us -[686.96 --> 688.32] In our worship together -[688.32 --> 690.62] Today's a special Sunday -[690.62 --> 691.72] In the life of a church -[691.72 --> 694.08] As we participate in baptisms -[694.08 --> 695.28] And professions of faith -[695.28 --> 696.70] And in welcoming new members -[696.70 --> 698.62] Here in our midst -[698.62 --> 701.62] And so today is a good day -[701.62 --> 703.32] Before we begin in worship -[703.32 --> 705.34] We have a few announcements to make -[705.34 --> 707.58] And so first of all -[707.58 --> 710.80] A reminder that this coming Friday -[710.80 --> 714.98] Is the women's Christmas event -[714.98 --> 715.72] And evening -[715.72 --> 717.62] There's been sign-ups for that -[717.62 --> 718.14] And the like -[718.14 --> 719.28] And so that's happening -[719.28 --> 721.02] On this coming Friday -[721.02 --> 724.00] In addition to that -[724.00 --> 726.16] The women's ministry group -[726.16 --> 726.88] Has asked -[726.88 --> 728.64] If we could help them -[728.64 --> 730.28] Clean up the chairs -[730.28 --> 731.44] Today -[731.44 --> 733.08] Following our worship -[733.08 --> 734.70] And so not necessarily -[734.70 --> 736.46] Immediately after worship -[736.46 --> 737.18] Because we want you -[737.18 --> 738.18] To be able to get your coffee -[738.18 --> 739.24] And talk to your friends -[739.24 --> 739.74] And the like -[739.74 --> 741.84] But sometime around there -[741.84 --> 743.26] It would be a real help -[743.26 --> 743.92] If you could just -[743.92 --> 745.06] Stack a bunch of chairs -[745.06 --> 746.64] And maybe move them to the side -[746.64 --> 747.32] So that they can -[747.32 --> 748.36] Throughout this week -[748.36 --> 750.22] Set up this space -[750.22 --> 750.92] For that event -[750.92 --> 752.68] Additionally -[752.68 --> 754.72] 2020 is happening -[754.72 --> 756.62] Tonight at 6.30 -[756.62 --> 757.84] And so that's a youth -[757.84 --> 759.08] Ministry event -[759.08 --> 759.56] And program -[759.56 --> 760.32] If you have any questions -[760.32 --> 760.76] On that -[760.76 --> 761.92] You can grab Pastor Kevin -[761.92 --> 763.68] He'll gladly give you -[763.68 --> 764.60] The details there -[764.60 --> 767.20] I think that's it -[767.20 --> 767.68] For today -[767.68 --> 769.54] Let's stand together -[769.54 --> 771.14] And we can be ushered -[771.14 --> 771.98] Into the presence -[771.98 --> 773.16] Of our good God -[773.16 --> 779.28] God welcomes us -[779.28 --> 780.38] Into this space -[780.38 --> 782.62] And he greets us -[782.62 --> 784.90] In our shared worship -[784.90 --> 785.82] As we mentioned -[785.82 --> 787.42] Today is a special Sunday -[787.42 --> 788.40] And part of our -[788.40 --> 789.96] Worship selection -[789.96 --> 790.80] Has been chosen -[790.80 --> 791.52] By the people -[791.52 --> 792.14] Who will be -[792.14 --> 793.32] Doing their profession -[793.32 --> 793.76] Of faith -[793.76 --> 794.54] Are being welcomed -[794.54 --> 796.02] As new members -[796.02 --> 797.08] Here later today -[797.08 --> 797.48] And so -[797.48 --> 798.82] Keep your ear out -[798.82 --> 799.70] For a new song -[799.70 --> 800.40] In that regard -[800.40 --> 801.44] As we join together -[801.44 --> 802.82] In our collective worship -[802.82 --> 803.84] In the presence -[803.84 --> 804.96] Of God -[804.96 --> 806.22] God's presence -[806.22 --> 807.04] Is here among us -[807.04 --> 807.80] And we mark that -[807.80 --> 809.06] By receiving his greeting -[809.06 --> 810.54] And then by extending -[810.54 --> 811.18] That greeting -[811.18 --> 812.12] To those around you -[812.12 --> 813.10] So after I give you -[813.10 --> 813.64] God's greeting -[813.64 --> 814.56] I invite you to turn -[814.56 --> 815.66] To the people around you -[815.66 --> 816.82] And welcome them -[816.82 --> 817.78] In the name of the Lord -[817.78 --> 818.78] Say the Lord be with you -[818.78 --> 819.76] Or the peace of Christ -[819.76 --> 820.84] Be with you -[820.84 --> 821.50] As we gather -[821.50 --> 822.84] In his presence today -[822.84 --> 823.72] Receive the greeting -[823.72 --> 824.60] Of our good God -[824.60 --> 826.02] Grace -[826.02 --> 827.40] Mercy -[827.40 --> 828.90] And peace to you -[828.90 --> 830.12] From God our Father -[830.12 --> 831.78] From the Lord Jesus Christ -[831.78 --> 832.98] Son and our Savior -[832.98 --> 834.34] Through the presence -[834.34 --> 834.86] And power -[834.86 --> 836.04] Of the Holy Spirit -[836.04 --> 837.36] Amen -[857.40 --> 886.38] Revelation 5 verse 13 -[886.38 --> 889.18] Then I heard -[889.18 --> 890.06] Every creature -[890.06 --> 890.94] In heaven -[890.94 --> 891.86] And on earth -[891.86 --> 893.02] And under the earth -[893.02 --> 894.88] And on the sea -[894.88 --> 896.16] And all that is in them -[896.16 --> 896.60] Saying -[896.60 --> 897.74] To him -[897.74 --> 898.52] Who sits -[898.52 --> 899.28] On the throne -[899.28 --> 900.92] And to the Lamb -[900.92 --> 901.82] Be praise -[901.82 --> 902.96] And honor -[902.96 --> 903.90] And glory -[903.90 --> 904.76] And power -[904.76 --> 905.52] Forever -[905.52 --> 906.82] And ever -[906.82 --> 909.66] If you've been forgiven -[909.66 --> 911.98] And if you've been redeemed -[911.98 --> 913.78] Sing the song -[913.78 --> 914.30] Forever -[914.30 --> 915.34] To the Lamb -[915.34 --> 916.68] If you walk -[916.68 --> 917.24] In freedom -[917.24 --> 918.14] And if you -[918.14 --> 919.16] Bear his name -[919.16 --> 920.96] Sing forever -[920.96 --> 921.88] The song -[921.88 --> 922.50] To the Lamb -[922.50 --> 924.76] Let's join our voices -[924.76 --> 925.50] This morning -[925.50 --> 927.04] And worship the one -[927.04 --> 928.70] Who sits on the throne -[928.70 --> 930.08] And the Lamb -[930.08 --> 943.70] God -[943.70 --> 951.56] Now is the time -[951.56 --> 954.32] To worship -[954.32 --> 957.00] Now -[957.00 --> 958.00] Now -[958.00 --> 960.04] Now is the time -[960.04 --> 964.02] To give your all -[964.02 --> 965.54] Now -[965.54 --> 968.52] Just as you are -[968.52 --> 971.34] To worship -[971.34 --> 974.00] Now -[974.00 --> 977.06] Just as you are -[977.06 --> 981.06] Before your God -[981.06 --> 982.06] Come -[982.06 --> 983.06] Come -[983.06 --> 984.22] Come -[984.22 --> 986.54] Now -[986.54 --> 989.80] Now is the time -[989.80 --> 992.60] To worship -[992.60 --> 994.22] Come -[994.22 --> 996.22] Now -[996.22 --> 998.30] Now is the time -[998.30 --> 1001.72] To give your all -[1001.72 --> 1002.64] Come -[1002.64 --> 1003.60] Come -[1003.60 --> 1006.90] Just as you are -[1006.90 --> 1007.90] To worship -[1007.90 --> 1011.90] Come -[1011.90 --> 1012.90] Come -[1012.90 --> 1015.52] Just as you are -[1015.52 --> 1017.80] Before your God -[1017.80 --> 1019.80] Come -[1019.80 --> 1021.80] Come -[1021.80 --> 1022.80] Come -[1022.80 --> 1023.80] Come -[1023.80 --> 1025.18] One day -[1025.18 --> 1026.02] Every time -[1026.02 --> 1027.00] Will confess -[1027.00 --> 1027.62] You are -[1027.62 --> 1028.48] Come -[1028.48 --> 1029.50] One day -[1029.50 --> 1030.58] Every knee -[1030.58 --> 1031.62] Will bow -[1031.62 --> 1034.70] Still the greatest treasure -[1034.70 --> 1037.02] Remains for those -[1037.02 --> 1039.20] Who gladly choose -[1039.20 --> 1040.20] To bow -[1040.20 --> 1041.20] Come -[1041.20 --> 1042.20] Come -[1042.20 --> 1043.20] Come -[1043.20 --> 1044.16] Come -[1044.16 --> 1044.72] Come -[1044.72 --> 1045.12] Come -[1045.12 --> 1047.76] Now is the time -[1047.76 --> 1050.62] To worship -[1050.62 --> 1052.62] Come -[1052.62 --> 1053.62] Come -[1053.62 --> 1056.40] Now is the time -[1056.40 --> 1059.28] To give your all -[1059.28 --> 1060.70] Come -[1060.70 --> 1061.78] Come -[1061.78 --> 1062.62] Come -[1062.62 --> 1065.08] Just as you are -[1065.08 --> 1067.20] To worship -[1067.20 --> 1069.20] Come -[1069.20 --> 1070.20] Come -[1070.20 --> 1071.20] Come -[1071.20 --> 1072.20] Come -[1072.20 --> 1073.76] Just as you are -[1073.76 --> 1076.82] Before your God -[1076.82 --> 1078.82] Come -[1078.82 --> 1079.04] Come -[1079.04 --> 1081.20] Come -[1081.20 --> 1083.38] One day -[1083.38 --> 1084.20] Every time -[1084.20 --> 1085.20] Will confess -[1085.20 --> 1086.60] You are God -[1086.60 --> 1087.68] One day -[1087.68 --> 1088.70] Every knee -[1088.70 --> 1089.54] Will bow -[1089.54 --> 1092.46] Still the greatest -[1092.46 --> 1092.96] Treasure -[1092.96 --> 1095.18] Remains for those -[1095.18 --> 1097.32] Who gladly choose -[1097.32 --> 1099.18] You now -[1099.18 --> 1101.28] Willingly we choose -[1101.28 --> 1102.42] To surrender -[1102.42 --> 1103.74] Our lives -[1103.74 --> 1105.86] Willingly our needs -[1105.86 --> 1106.18] Will bow -[1106.18 --> 1109.34] With all our -[1109.34 --> 1112.08] Soul, mind and strength -[1112.08 --> 1114.36] We gladly choose -[1114.36 --> 1116.18] You now -[1116.18 --> 1118.18] Come -[1118.18 --> 1119.18] Come -[1119.18 --> 1120.18] Come -[1120.18 --> 1123.06] Now is the time -[1123.06 --> 1123.18] To worship -[1123.18 --> 1128.18] Come -[1128.18 --> 1131.18] Now is the time -[1131.18 --> 1134.18] To give your all -[1134.18 --> 1136.18] Come -[1136.18 --> 1137.18] Come -[1137.18 --> 1138.18] Come -[1138.18 --> 1140.18] Come -[1140.18 --> 1141.18] Come -[1141.18 --> 1142.18] Come -[1142.18 --> 1143.18] Come -[1143.18 --> 1152.18] Come -[1152.18 --> 1153.18] Come -[1153.18 --> 1154.18] Come -[1154.18 --> 1160.18] A thousand generations -[1160.18 --> 1174.42] A thousand generations falling down in worship to sing the song of ages to the end. -[1176.02 --> 1188.36] And all who long before us and all who will believe sing the song of ages to the end. -[1190.18 --> 1201.94] Your name is the highest, your name is the greatest, your name stands above the whole. -[1201.94 --> 1214.94] All thrones and the regions, all powers and positions, your name stands above the whole. -[1215.24 --> 1218.22] And the angels cry. -[1218.22 --> 1224.22] Holy, vocation rise. -[1225.36 --> 1231.56] Holy, you are lifted high. -[1231.98 --> 1237.42] Holy, holy forever. -[1237.42 --> 1253.42] If you've been forgiven, if you've been redeemed, sing the song forever to the land. -[1253.42 --> 1266.56] If you walk into freedom, and if you bear His name, sing the song forever to the land. -[1266.56 --> 1271.56] And sing the song forever to the land. -[1271.56 --> 1274.56] And the angels cry. -[1274.56 --> 1280.56] Holy, vocation rise. -[1280.56 --> 1286.56] Holy, you are lifted high. -[1286.56 --> 1292.56] Holy, holy forever. -[1292.56 --> 1293.56] Holy, holy forever. -[1293.56 --> 1296.56] Holy, holy forever. -[1296.56 --> 1298.56] Hear your people sing. -[1298.56 --> 1304.56] Holy, holy to the King of peace. -[1304.56 --> 1310.56] Holy, you will always be. -[1310.56 --> 1315.56] Holy, holy forever. -[1315.56 --> 1316.56] Holy, holy forever. -[1316.56 --> 1317.56] Holy, holy forever. -[1317.56 --> 1322.56] Holy, holy forever. -[1322.56 --> 1334.56] Your name is the highest, your name is the greatest, your name stands above the whole. -[1334.56 --> 1345.56] All thrones and dominions, all powers, their positions, your name stands above the whole. -[1345.56 --> 1346.56] And the angels rise to the Lord. -[1346.56 --> 1347.56] Has you signed the highest, your name from the Lord. -[1347.66 --> 1349.56] What will you like to have that, your shelters, the holy forever? -[1350.56 --> 1353.56] Holy, holy forever. -[1357.56 --> 1358.56] Holy, holy forever. -[1358.56 --> 1367.56] Holy, holy forever. -[1367.56 --> 1368.56] Amen. -[1368.56 --> 1369.56] Holy, holy forever. -[1369.56 --> 1371.56] Amen. -[1371.56 --> 1373.56] Holy, holy forever. -[1373.56 --> 1375.56] You live in holy, Holyibanjuds. -[1375.56 --> 1389.56] king -[1392.76 --> 1395.56] you will always be -[1395.56 --> 1397.56] holy -[1397.56 --> 1399.56] holy -[1399.56 --> 1401.56] forever -[1409.56 --> 1415.56] Ever notice when life gets busy the easiest thing to skip is our reading of God's Word? -[1415.56 --> 1419.56] Pastor Chris has asked us a couple weeks ago -[1419.56 --> 1425.56] how often do we feast or nourish ourselves in God's Word in our daily lives? -[1425.56 --> 1431.56] our heart's desire should be to walk closely with God -[1431.56 --> 1433.56] to cherish his word -[1433.56 --> 1435.56] but our flesh can be so weak -[1435.56 --> 1441.56] will you pray Psalm 119 verses 10 to 16 with us -[1441.56 --> 1445.56] that we will cherish and delight in God's Word -[1445.56 --> 1447.56] let's pray -[1447.56 --> 1449.56] let's pray -[1453.56 --> 1457.56] Father I seek you with all my heart -[1457.56 --> 1459.56] do not let me stray from your commands -[1459.56 --> 1465.56] I've hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you -[1465.56 --> 1469.56] praise be to you Lord teach me your decrees -[1469.56 --> 1475.56] with my lips I recount all the laws that come from your mouth -[1475.56 --> 1481.56] I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches -[1481.56 --> 1487.56] I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways -[1487.56 --> 1491.56] I delight in your decrees -[1491.56 --> 1493.56] I will not neglect your word -[1493.56 --> 1501.56] help us Father to live this prayer out by the power of your spirit -[1501.56 --> 1503.56] amen -[1503.56 --> 1505.56] amen -[1505.56 --> 1519.56] frankly -[1519.56 --> 1520.56] God. -[1524.42 --> 1526.56] There's a place -[1527.32 --> 1528.78] where streams -[1528.78 --> 1530.74] of grace -[1530.74 --> 1534.56] flow deep and wide. -[1537.54 --> 1539.56] And all the love -[1540.38 --> 1542.56] I've ever found -[1543.40 --> 1545.66] comes like a -[1545.66 --> 1546.56] flood -[1546.56 --> 1549.56] comes flowing down. -[1554.16 --> 1555.92] At the cross -[1555.92 --> 1556.56] at the cross -[1557.24 --> 1558.56] I surrender -[1558.56 --> 1560.44] my life -[1560.44 --> 1561.60] to Him -[1561.60 --> 1562.56] of you. -[1563.88 --> 1564.80] To Him -[1564.80 --> 1566.56] of you. -[1567.06 --> 1568.70] Where your love -[1568.70 --> 1569.56] and death -[1569.56 --> 1571.56] is my sweet -[1571.56 --> 1573.04] wash my -[1573.04 --> 1575.56] I owe all to you. -[1575.56 --> 1580.56] For all to Jesus. -[1580.56 --> 1587.56] There's a place -[1588.52 --> 1590.56] where sin and shame -[1591.56 --> 1593.56] are powerless. -[1597.56 --> 1600.56] Where my heart -[1601.10 --> 1603.56] has peace with God -[1603.56 --> 1604.56] and heal the world -[1604.56 --> 1606.56] will heal the world. -[1606.56 --> 1612.56] Where all the love -[1612.56 --> 1615.56] I've ever found -[1615.56 --> 1619.56] comes like a flood -[1619.56 --> 1621.56] flowing down. -[1621.56 --> 1622.56] I owe all to you. -[1622.56 --> 1623.56] I owe all to you. -[1623.56 --> 1624.56] I owe all to you. -[1624.56 --> 1625.56] I owe all to you. -[1626.56 --> 1627.56] Where your love -[1627.56 --> 1629.56] can bear -[1629.56 --> 1631.56] and my sin -[1631.56 --> 1632.56] are not white. -[1632.56 --> 1634.56] I owe all to you. -[1634.56 --> 1635.56] I owe all to you. -[1635.56 --> 1637.56] I owe all to you. -[1637.56 --> 1638.56] I owe all to you. -[1638.56 --> 1639.56] I owe all to you. -[1639.56 --> 1640.56] Where my heart -[1640.56 --> 1641.56] is down. -[1641.56 --> 1642.56] Here -[1642.56 --> 1645.56] I'm holy ground. -[1645.56 --> 1647.56] Here I'm round -[1647.56 --> 1651.24] I don't want you -[1651.24 --> 1656.78] I want you down here -[1656.78 --> 1659.80] I'm going down here -[1659.80 --> 1662.88] I'm going down here -[1662.88 --> 1665.04] I'm going down here -[1665.04 --> 1669.04] I'm going down here -[1669.04 --> 1671.20] You'll save my life -[1671.20 --> 1674.56] Here I'm down here -[1674.56 --> 1677.56] Here I'm down here -[1677.56 --> 1679.20] At the cross, at the cross -[1679.20 --> 1682.34] I surrender my life -[1682.34 --> 1685.16] I live on you -[1685.16 --> 1688.48] I live on you -[1688.48 --> 1691.60] When your love and breath -[1691.60 --> 1694.48] And my skin wash white -[1694.48 --> 1697.08] I owe all to you -[1697.08 --> 1700.12] I owe all to you -[1700.12 --> 1703.12] I owe all to you -[1703.12 --> 1706.12] I owe all to you -[1706.12 --> 1708.12] Jesus -[1708.12 --> 1713.36] You may be seated -[1713.36 --> 1714.36] Amen. -[1743.36 --> 1744.36] Amen. -[1773.36 --> 1775.36] Amen. -[1803.36 --> 1813.40] When I think about my life, I reflect on the people. -[1813.40 --> 1817.62] People I've met along the way and people who have been with me since the beginning. -[1817.62 --> 1822.12] Before becoming a teacher, I worked in healthcare for 10 years and met many people from all walks -[1822.12 --> 1823.12] of life. -[1823.12 --> 1828.14] I've taken care of countless patients whose stories have had an impact on me. -[1828.14 --> 1832.36] With that said, I also think about the impact that I could potentially have on others and -[1832.36 --> 1837.06] regularly ask myself, do I embody the fruits of the Spirit? -[1837.06 --> 1839.86] Am I quick to listen or respond? -[1839.86 --> 1842.64] Do I have empathy before judgment? -[1842.64 --> 1847.28] Do I embody the person that Jesus has called me to be? -[1847.28 --> 1852.16] As I get older, I'm truly recognizing what it means for me to take his lead on my life -[1852.16 --> 1853.88] and not my own. -[1853.88 --> 1858.78] I will admit I am someone who likes to be in control, organized, and check things off my -[1858.78 --> 1861.00] seamlessly endless to-do list. -[1861.00 --> 1864.24] I am Katie's daughter. -[1864.24 --> 1869.70] However, sometimes I will admit that I hunker down too much and I only see the path that -[1869.70 --> 1871.88] I have laid out. -[1871.88 --> 1876.50] As we're called to walk with Jesus and talk to him, I look forward to finally becoming -[1876.50 --> 1879.70] an official member after over three decades. -[1879.70 --> 1884.30] I look forward to walking and talking with all of you and taking Jesus' lead. -[1884.30 --> 1888.40] I look forward to seeing the impact that Jesus will have on my life through you. -[1888.40 --> 1900.82] Yeah, it's nice and short. -[1900.82 --> 1904.64] Johanna, I'm super excited that you're up here today. -[1904.64 --> 1909.62] When I got here, I won't say how long ago because it'll age us both, but you were in youth when -[1909.62 --> 1910.38] I showed up here. -[1910.38 --> 1913.48] So it was a while ago and I've known you for a long time. -[1913.48 --> 1918.92] And this day, I feel, has been sort of a long time coming, which makes it even more special, -[1918.92 --> 1920.44] I think, that we are up here today. -[1920.44 --> 1924.24] And that we get to baptize your daughter, McKenna, in a moment makes it equally as special. -[1924.24 --> 1930.20] So in that light, I wanted to read a Bible passage today that makes me think of you. -[1930.20 --> 1933.58] It's from Ephesians 4 and it's verses 14 to 16. -[1933.58 --> 1934.20] It says this, -[1934.20 --> 1940.00] Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves and blown here and there -[1940.00 --> 1945.30] by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. -[1945.38 --> 1951.86] Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body -[1951.86 --> 1954.80] of him who is the head, that is Christ. -[1955.72 --> 1961.14] From him, the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds -[1961.14 --> 1964.24] itself up in love as each part does its work. -[1964.90 --> 1968.94] So I've seen your growth over the amount of years that I've known you for here. -[1969.16 --> 1974.36] And I know Pastor Chris has seen the same growth as he's walked alongside you and Mike here as -[1974.36 --> 1974.58] well. -[1975.02 --> 1980.00] Today, you are professing your commitment to both Jesus and the body of Christ. -[1980.00 --> 1985.50] And I pray that you keep sort of pressing onwards, growing more and more into the mature body -[1985.50 --> 1987.66] of Christ that we are all called to be. -[1988.36 --> 1993.74] So as you do that, I hope that when you look out and see all of these wonderful people out -[1993.74 --> 1999.16] here, you'll see that the same body of Christ that you belong to, the body of Christ that -[1999.16 --> 2003.08] you're professing to today, that these are all people who are committed to you. -[2003.50 --> 2006.16] They're committed to supporting you and lifting you up. -[2006.16 --> 2012.36] And church, when you look up here at Johanna and McKenna in a moment, and then many others -[2012.36 --> 2018.72] as well, you will see them all as members of that same body who we are called to encourage, -[2019.12 --> 2020.58] build up, and walk alongside. -[2020.74 --> 2024.32] We are all called to join together in our faith in him. -[2024.40 --> 2029.04] And so Johanna, you are loved by Jesus more than you will ever know. -[2029.04 --> 2033.20] And I pray that you are encouraged in this step that you are taking today. -[2033.76 --> 2038.86] I also encourage you to grow closer and closer to Jesus each and every day as you continue -[2038.86 --> 2040.58] to raise this beautiful little girl here. -[2041.18 --> 2046.34] And as you walk, as he continues, as God continues to work in and through you as well. -[2046.90 --> 2047.78] So congratulations. -[2048.42 --> 2050.08] We have this little book here. -[2050.48 --> 2051.58] It's an excellent book. -[2051.72 --> 2054.24] And this is a gift on behalf of the church for your profession. -[2054.24 --> 2057.36] You're not allowed to look at it yet because you still have to answer some questions. -[2058.02 --> 2059.24] But that's for you. -[2059.50 --> 2060.20] No, no, you can't. -[2060.32 --> 2061.42] So anyways, congratulations. -[2061.62 --> 2062.78] Let's give her a little clap. -[2069.54 --> 2070.52] You're staying up here. -[2070.66 --> 2072.38] Do you want to stand here or do you want to stand in the middle? -[2072.44 --> 2073.22] No, this is great. -[2073.38 --> 2074.06] On to the side. -[2074.16 --> 2074.44] Perfect. -[2074.44 --> 2082.06] It's always really interesting when I walk through profession of faith and to this journey -[2082.06 --> 2082.60] with people. -[2083.56 --> 2088.16] Because for most people who stand up here, saying that I love Jesus and I give myself to -[2088.16 --> 2089.60] his church is not a problem. -[2090.40 --> 2093.84] Saying it on stage in front of a few hundred people, that's the problem. -[2094.72 --> 2095.62] Which is interesting. -[2095.84 --> 2097.20] And that's kind of your story too. -[2097.48 --> 2098.08] But you know what? -[2098.64 --> 2100.36] Wasn't her little story amazing? -[2100.98 --> 2101.28] Right? -[2101.38 --> 2102.04] Isn't God good? -[2102.26 --> 2102.46] See? -[2104.44 --> 2104.92] All right. -[2105.08 --> 2106.74] I'm doing this because I know you hate every minute of it. -[2106.74 --> 2107.20] I really do. -[2107.20 --> 2107.44] Yeah. -[2107.98 --> 2109.24] So we're just going to prolong it. -[2110.46 --> 2116.38] So as you have already given testimony, we now ask you to profess your faith in response -[2116.38 --> 2117.26] to four questions. -[2117.68 --> 2119.28] I'm going to ask you four questions. -[2120.00 --> 2126.14] And if you so believe, I'm going to invite you to respond by saying, I do with God's help -[2126.14 --> 2128.46] or I do God helping me, whichever one you choose. -[2130.08 --> 2130.32] Okay. -[2130.42 --> 2131.52] These four questions come. -[2131.58 --> 2132.30] I'll ask all four. -[2132.30 --> 2139.88] Johanna, do you believe that Jesus Christ is the son of God sent to redeem the world? -[2140.26 --> 2143.52] Do you love and trust him as the one who saves you from your sin? -[2143.52 --> 2148.06] And do you with repentance and joy embrace him as Lord of your life? -[2148.90 --> 2149.22] Two. -[2149.72 --> 2153.70] Do you believe that the Bible is the word of God revealing Christ and his redemption -[2153.70 --> 2157.68] and that the confessions of this church faithfully reflect this revelation? -[2157.68 --> 2158.68] Three. -[2158.68 --> 2159.24] Three. -[2160.10 --> 2163.88] Do you accept the gracious promises of God sealed to you in your baptism? -[2164.14 --> 2169.16] And do you affirm your union with Christ and his church, which your baptism signifies? -[2170.12 --> 2170.90] And four. -[2171.30 --> 2177.28] Do you promise to do all you can with the help of the Holy Spirit to strengthen your love -[2177.28 --> 2182.94] and commitment to Christ by sharing faithfully in the life of this church, honoring and submitting -[2182.94 --> 2183.86] to its authority? -[2183.86 --> 2188.50] And do you join with the people of God in doing the work of the Lord everywhere? -[2189.18 --> 2191.00] Johanna, what is your answer? -[2191.42 --> 2192.50] I do with God's help. -[2192.50 --> 2194.92] I do with God's help, she says. -[2195.28 --> 2195.82] Profess it. -[2196.36 --> 2196.78] I do. -[2197.06 --> 2197.50] God's help. -[2199.16 --> 2199.76] Amen. -[2200.08 --> 2200.88] Thank you for that. -[2202.00 --> 2207.62] Johanna, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, I now welcome you to all the privileges of full -[2207.62 --> 2208.06] communion. -[2208.58 --> 2212.30] I welcome you to full participation in the life of the church. -[2212.64 --> 2216.98] I welcome you to its responsibilities, its joys, and its sufferings. -[2217.32 --> 2219.38] Receive this blessing from God. -[2219.38 --> 2224.82] May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from -[2224.82 --> 2230.90] the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good -[2230.90 --> 2232.86] for doing his will. -[2233.38 --> 2239.56] And may he work in you what is pleasing to him through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory -[2239.56 --> 2241.18] forever and ever. -[2241.26 --> 2242.24] And all God's people said? -[2242.92 --> 2243.44] Amen. -[2244.50 --> 2246.54] I invite you to a moment of reprieve. -[2246.84 --> 2247.52] Take your seat. -[2249.38 --> 2255.96] As Johanna is making her way down, I'd like to also invite Josh and Rachel up to the front. -[2256.06 --> 2257.44] I didn't see where you guys were sitting. -[2257.54 --> 2257.94] Are you some? -[2257.98 --> 2258.82] There you are. -[2262.82 --> 2266.12] And for efficiency's sake, let's just stay on this side. -[2266.12 --> 2279.98] Josh and Rachel and Elizabeth, it's our hope and our prayer that here at Emmanuel, your -[2279.98 --> 2284.94] faith in God will be strengthened, that your love for Jesus will be grown, and that you -[2284.94 --> 2291.96] will find, as you have already found, opportunities to serve the Lord by serving his church. -[2291.96 --> 2298.26] As we welcome you into our church family this morning, we ask that you affirm the faith that -[2298.26 --> 2304.18] you have professed in your baptism and in your commitment to God's mission in and through -[2304.18 --> 2309.66] Langley Emmanuel, to our city, to our region, and through that to the world. -[2310.26 --> 2316.10] To do so, I'm going to ask you three questions, after which I will invite you to respond with, -[2316.10 --> 2317.78] we do with God's help. -[2318.78 --> 2324.70] First, do you believe in Jesus as your Savior and Lord, and that in him only is hope and freedom -[2324.70 --> 2325.82] from sin found? -[2326.78 --> 2331.28] Second, do you believe that the Bible is the word of God, revealing his plan for redemption -[2331.28 --> 2336.34] in Jesus Christ, and that the preaching and teaching of Langley Emmanuel reflect this truth? -[2337.06 --> 2341.64] And then third, do you promise, with the help of the Holy Spirit, to do all that you can to -[2341.64 --> 2347.32] strengthen your relationship to Jesus by being part of this church, by recognizing its oversight -[2347.32 --> 2353.48] and authority, and by joining with us on mission for Jesus in this community, this city, and -[2353.48 --> 2353.84] the world? -[2354.16 --> 2355.88] Josh and Rachel, what is your answer? -[2356.44 --> 2357.72] We do with God's help. -[2357.98 --> 2358.26] Amen. -[2360.26 --> 2367.02] Now, as they, along with Johanna, have professed their faith and have so become full partakers -[2367.02 --> 2373.38] of our church family, we also have the unique opportunity this morning to baptize their children. -[2374.52 --> 2380.70] And so, we have Elizabeth here, and I'm going to invite Mike and Johanna and McKenna to come -[2380.70 --> 2381.98] up to the front. -[2382.72 --> 2387.42] For those of you who haven't yet met Mike, Mike is on his own faith journey, and he's currently -[2387.42 --> 2390.54] with us in our Christianity Explored class. -[2390.54 --> 2397.30] Because he's not yet a member of our church, he won't be answering these questions, but -[2397.30 --> 2404.36] he does stand here in full support of Johanna and with McKenna's baptism, and in the commitment -[2404.36 --> 2407.64] to raise her in the Christian faith together. -[2408.96 --> 2415.96] Now, in our church and in our tradition, we baptize infants not out of superstition or tradition -[2415.96 --> 2421.86] or just because we like cute babies, although we see some pretty cute kids up here this morning. -[2422.64 --> 2429.54] We baptize infants because they are covenant children and should therefore receive the sign -[2429.54 --> 2430.32] of the covenant. -[2431.48 --> 2436.10] In Genesis 15, God made a covenant with Abraham. -[2436.78 --> 2442.22] Now, this covenant was sealed with the sign of circumcision in Genesis 17, and God promised -[2442.22 --> 2443.56] to bless Abraham. -[2443.56 --> 2447.56] And for Abraham, this meant two things in particular. -[2447.78 --> 2450.68] It meant offspring, family, and it meant a land. -[2451.56 --> 2458.22] But at the heart of the covenant was God's promise that he would be God to Abraham and -[2458.22 --> 2459.52] to his children. -[2460.60 --> 2469.72] And God cut a covenant into these people and into their relationship out of Israel's flesh, -[2469.90 --> 2471.64] carving a people for himself. -[2471.64 --> 2476.68] In the fullness of time, God sent his son, Jesus, to be our savior. -[2477.16 --> 2482.56] And in his death on the cross, our old self is dead and buried. -[2482.70 --> 2488.02] And in his resurrection, we rise to new life and look forward to the new creation. -[2488.02 --> 2494.68] When we baptize in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, the triune God -[2494.68 --> 2500.70] seals our adoption as his children and writes his name invisibly on our foreheads. -[2501.54 --> 2507.32] You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God. -[2507.86 --> 2512.14] Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God. -[2512.14 --> 2518.62] By baptism, we recognize a new identity in Jesus Christ. -[2519.66 --> 2526.40] And so today we come to administer the sacrament of baptism to these beautiful children with -[2526.40 --> 2533.02] the weight of church history to encourage us and the example of redemptive history to confirm -[2533.02 --> 2533.84] our practice. -[2533.84 --> 2537.86] We baptize in obedience to Christ's command. -[2539.02 --> 2544.74] The sacrament that we are about to administer is a sign of the inclusion in the covenant family -[2544.74 --> 2545.96] as circumcision was. -[2546.36 --> 2553.10] The water that we are about to sprinkle is a sign of cleansing from sin as the sprinkled -[2553.10 --> 2555.78] blood of bulls and goats in the Old Testament was. -[2555.78 --> 2563.56] And we pray that McKenna and Elizabeth will take advantage of all their covenant privileges, -[2564.30 --> 2573.34] acknowledging Jesus as her Lord all the days of her life, and that by faith she, they might -[2573.34 --> 2575.40] make these promises their own. -[2576.54 --> 2578.76] You guys have already answered a couple questions. -[2579.10 --> 2581.28] I have two more particular to baptism. -[2581.28 --> 2586.40] I will ask both of these questions and then invite you to respond as parents. -[2587.78 --> 2592.62] Do you believe that your children, though sinful by nature, are received by God in Christ -[2592.62 --> 2595.80] as members of his covenant and therefore ought to be baptized? -[2597.08 --> 2601.34] And two, do you promise in reliance on the Holy Spirit and with the help of the Christian -[2601.34 --> 2607.62] community to do all in your power to instruct McKenna and Elizabeth in the Christian faith and -[2607.62 --> 2612.14] to lead them by your example into the life of Christian discipleship? -[2612.58 --> 2613.82] Johanna, what is your answer? -[2615.44 --> 2615.72] Amen. -[2616.18 --> 2617.68] Josh and Rachel, what is your answer? -[2619.26 --> 2619.58] Amen. -[2620.94 --> 2626.26] Our Lord said, let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom -[2626.26 --> 2628.02] of God belongs to such as these. -[2628.60 --> 2633.02] And so I'd like to take this opportunity to invite all the kids and the young at heart to -[2633.02 --> 2637.10] come up to the front and just to gather on the floor, kind of right here, so that you can -[2637.10 --> 2639.44] see most clearly what is happening. -[2639.90 --> 2644.06] And I'm going to invite you guys just to shift here, and then we'll come one at a time through. -[2644.90 --> 2646.26] Just move over a little bit there. -[2655.44 --> 2660.92] Guys, in just a moment, we are going to baptize these two beautiful children, and we're going -[2660.92 --> 2663.62] to take this water and pour it over their heads. -[2663.62 --> 2669.18] And just like when you have a bath or when you have a shower, you get clean from that, -[2669.64 --> 2676.50] this is a picture for us about how the blood of Jesus, how the grace of God, how the mercy -[2676.50 --> 2680.12] of our Father makes us clean and new in Him. -[2682.60 --> 2686.76] If you get wet while this happens, I don't really apologize. -[2686.76 --> 2693.24] Just remember that this is a mark of what God does in our midst and for us. -[2696.60 --> 2707.92] This water is poured out and offered as a sign and seal of Jesus' promise to you. -[2707.92 --> 2712.06] Elizabeth, can we do you first? -[2722.06 --> 2729.00] Elizabeth Rose Malawaini, I baptize you in the name of the Father, in the name of the Son, -[2729.00 --> 2731.88] and in the name of the Holy Spirit. -[2733.18 --> 2733.58] Amen. -[2745.58 --> 2746.18] We'll see. -[2747.96 --> 2753.10] McKenna Wilhelmina Hayward, I baptize you in the name of the Father, -[2753.10 --> 2758.90] in the name of the Son, and in the name of the Holy Spirit. -[2760.66 --> 2761.18] Amen. -[2763.40 --> 2763.80] Amen. -[2763.80 --> 2763.98] Amen. -[2772.66 --> 2773.28] Beautiful. -[2773.62 --> 2774.18] Good job. -[2776.82 --> 2781.90] Congregation, church, family, friends of Josh and Rachel and Johanna and Mike, -[2781.90 --> 2787.56] we have the opportunity now to offer them our promise of support and love. -[2788.34 --> 2792.76] So I'm going to invite you to answer this question as you do, -[2792.86 --> 2796.52] and if you are able, I'm going to invite you to stand as we ask this question, -[2796.52 --> 2799.96] and then you'll be invited to respond as well by saying, -[2800.10 --> 2801.54] we do with God's help. -[2803.44 --> 2809.22] And so do you, congregation of the Lord Jesus Christ here at Langley Emanuel, -[2809.22 --> 2814.50] do you promise to love, encourage, and support Johanna and Mike and McKenna, -[2814.88 --> 2816.70] Josh and Rachel and Elizabeth, -[2817.16 --> 2819.60] by welcoming them into our church family, -[2820.08 --> 2822.24] by teaching the gospel of God's love, -[2822.32 --> 2825.04] by being an example of Christian faith and character, -[2825.04 --> 2828.66] and by giving the strong support of God's family in fellowship, -[2829.30 --> 2830.62] prayer, and service? -[2830.62 --> 2831.62] What is your answer? -[2832.28 --> 2833.96] You are God. -[2834.52 --> 2835.00] Amen. -[2836.00 --> 2836.72] You may be seated. -[2838.78 --> 2841.20] I'm going to stand just in the middle of you guys. -[2847.52 --> 2852.76] So I offer this blessing to you, McKenna, and to you, Elizabeth. -[2854.26 --> 2857.86] McKenna and Elizabeth, the Lord bless you and keep you. -[2857.86 --> 2862.22] The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you. -[2862.78 --> 2867.40] The Lord turn his face towards you and give you peace. -[2868.24 --> 2873.16] In this way, the name of the Lord is written on you, -[2873.82 --> 2876.04] and he makes you his own. -[2877.62 --> 2881.58] Congregation, let's welcome them into our church family together. -[2886.14 --> 2887.26] Thank you, guys. -[2887.26 --> 2890.30] If you want to just stand in the front, off the stage there. -[2890.98 --> 2892.72] We're going to move just to the front, -[2892.84 --> 2893.68] and at this point, -[2894.16 --> 2897.06] we also want to welcome into our church fellowship -[2897.06 --> 2899.34] some others who come to us -[2899.34 --> 2901.96] from other Christian Reformed churches. -[2902.94 --> 2904.30] And so as I say your name, -[2904.72 --> 2906.76] invite you to make your way up to the front -[2906.76 --> 2910.08] and just stand in this group here along with them. -[2910.72 --> 2913.90] First, I'm going to invite Jane Van Druten up to the front. -[2913.90 --> 2920.32] Jane comes to us from Willoughby CRC and has been worshiping with us for about a year now. -[2921.08 --> 2924.44] I also want to invite Faye Shonit up to the front. -[2925.44 --> 2929.22] Faye also joins us from Willoughby and has been with us for some time -[2929.22 --> 2934.72] and has probably fed every one of you at some point or another in her time here. -[2934.72 --> 2939.90] I'd also like to invite Claus Tessemaker. -[2941.18 --> 2944.38] Claus comes from Living Hope in Abbotsford -[2944.38 --> 2947.50] and has recently moved up the hill to Sunridge Gardens. -[2948.28 --> 2950.66] He also has the privilege of being -[2950.66 --> 2954.98] Josiah Isaac Amara and Shanae Hogewonings' grandpa. -[2954.98 --> 2959.52] So we're pretty excited to have you here, Claus, as well. -[2960.78 --> 2964.30] And then I'd like to invite up the Wagonar family. -[2965.12 --> 2968.16] I believe they're all here except for Marika, who's missing this morning. -[2968.36 --> 2973.50] And so Aaron, Elise, and Tice, and Marika, who isn't able to be here with us. -[2973.68 --> 2976.92] They have been worshiping with us for a couple years now. -[2977.24 --> 2980.60] And can I say we are also finally getting you guys up front. -[2980.92 --> 2982.88] So thanks, Aaron, for answering an email. -[2982.88 --> 2983.20] Yep. -[2983.20 --> 2989.14] They come to us from Sunlight Church in Linden, Washington. -[2990.46 --> 2994.16] We are grateful that you are all here with us -[2994.16 --> 2999.02] and we are excited to see what God will do in our midst through your presence -[2999.02 --> 3004.16] and excited to celebrate what he has already done in our midst through your presence here. -[3004.66 --> 3010.32] Our prayer continues to be that you will join in our shared mission and ministry as a church family -[3010.32 --> 3018.88] by serving God in Murrayville and Langley and beyond, proclaiming his gospel and revealing his kingdom come and his kingdom coming. -[3018.88 --> 3021.12] Thank you for being with us. -[3021.12 --> 3023.30] Now, before you sit, we have a couple gifts from you. -[3023.48 --> 3028.50] And so Eric and I think John are going to come up on behalf of our church elders. -[3029.62 --> 3031.96] And they have some gifts for each of you. -[3034.42 --> 3037.22] Part of what you will receive there is a notebook. -[3037.22 --> 3045.40] We encourage you to use that notebook through the long and sometimes boring preaching that we offer around here week in and week out. -[3045.40 --> 3045.46] All right. -[3046.04 --> 3048.44] Or to doodle and distract yourself with. -[3048.44 --> 3051.28] Thank you. -[3051.28 --> 3051.40] termination Gus -[3051.40 --> 3081.38] Thank you. -[3081.38 --> 3083.62] Amen. -[3085.00 --> 3085.40] Amen. -[3089.46 --> 3091.20] And just three more seconds. -[3091.32 --> 3094.16] I'm going to pray over you all together. -[3094.30 --> 3094.68] Let's pray. -[3097.66 --> 3105.94] Holy and good God, days like today, we see your miraculous provision for your church, -[3106.44 --> 3109.90] and we thank you for the way that you are at work among us. -[3110.38 --> 3115.86] We thank you for the testimonies that each person here represents, for the stories that -[3115.86 --> 3118.32] we could hear and the stories that we will hear. -[3118.60 --> 3123.12] We thank you, God, for the story that we will share going forward from this place. -[3123.32 --> 3130.28] And most of all, we praise your name for the incredible ways you are weaving the great story -[3130.28 --> 3136.68] of history's redemption through people like these, through this, your church here at Langley -[3136.68 --> 3137.18] Emmanuel. -[3137.70 --> 3142.94] We give you praise for your great provision, and we pray that each one here this morning -[3142.94 --> 3149.48] would see your face just a little bit more clearly today, would know your grace and hold -[3149.48 --> 3155.40] it just a little bit more dearly in our hearts, and that together we might sing your praises -[3155.40 --> 3161.28] even as we gather, even as we grow, and even as we go. -[3161.80 --> 3163.68] This we pray in the name of Jesus Christ. -[3163.76 --> 3166.00] And all God's people together said, amen. -[3166.70 --> 3167.02] Amen. -[3167.22 --> 3168.02] You guys may have a seat. -[3168.10 --> 3168.44] Thank you. -[3168.44 --> 3174.58] I'm going to invite the worship team back up as we continue in our worship with another -[3174.58 --> 3179.68] song that was chosen for us by these families to worship with. -[3179.74 --> 3181.30] Let's stand as we sing together. -[3181.30 --> 3181.36] Amen. -[3198.44 --> 3223.56] Beautiful Lord, wonderful Savior, I know for sure. -[3223.56 --> 3236.92] All of my days are held in your end, crafted into your perfect plan. -[3236.92 --> 3246.30] You gently call me into your presence, guiding me by. -[3246.30 --> 3259.70] Your only spirit, teach me, dear Lord, to live all of my life through your eyes. -[3260.62 --> 3268.34] I'm captured by your holy calling, set me apart. -[3268.34 --> 3273.76] I know you're drawing me to yourself. -[3273.76 --> 3280.76] Lead me, Lord, I pray. -[3280.76 --> 3292.52] Take me, hold me, use me, fill me. -[3292.52 --> 3299.76] I give my life to the water's land. -[3299.76 --> 3320.76] I give my life to the water's land. -[3320.76 --> 3330.76] Beautiful Lord, wonderful Savior, I know for sure. -[3330.76 --> 3342.76] All of my days are held in your hand, crafted into your perfect plan. -[3342.76 --> 3351.76] You gently call me into your presence, guiding me by. -[3351.76 --> 3363.76] Your holy spirit, teach me, dear Lord, to live all of my life through your eyes. -[3363.76 --> 3370.76] I have to find your holy calling, set me apart. -[3370.76 --> 3375.76] I know you're drawing me to yourself. -[3375.76 --> 3378.76] Lead me, Lord, I pray. -[3378.76 --> 3385.76] Lead me, hold me, use me, fill me. -[3385.76 --> 3390.76] I give my life to the water's land. -[3390.76 --> 3391.76] Use me, heal me. -[3391.76 --> 3403.76] I give my life to the water's land. -[3403.76 --> 3410.76] I give my life to the water's land. -[3410.76 --> 3424.76] I give my life to the water's land. -[3424.76 --> 3425.76] You are free. -[3425.76 --> 3430.76] And I give my life to the water's land. -[3430.76 --> 3439.76] I give my life to the water. -[3439.76 --> 3443.76] I give my life to the water's land. -[3443.76 --> 3456.54] Good morning, everyone. -[3456.98 --> 3460.12] Wow, it's so good to see so many people here today. -[3460.62 --> 3463.00] And the volume of music is wonderful. -[3463.24 --> 3465.04] It's great to hear so many people sing. -[3465.70 --> 3469.82] My name is Allison, and I'm one of the deacons here at Emanuel. -[3469.82 --> 3473.96] And I'm introducing the offering today. -[3475.08 --> 3480.74] First of all, we are going to be supporting Wagner Hills this week. -[3481.30 --> 3486.38] Wagner Hills is a two-campus organization that is founded in Christ, -[3486.70 --> 3497.44] and they help counsel, train, and give work to those who are recovering from addictions of all kinds, -[3497.44 --> 3498.72] both men and women. -[3498.72 --> 3502.24] And it's right here in our own backyard in the valley. -[3503.16 --> 3504.48] So that's the first thing. -[3504.74 --> 3507.60] The second is our own benevolence fund. -[3508.28 --> 3511.22] Now, coming up to Christmas, it gets very busy. -[3511.40 --> 3513.98] There's a lot of need out there in our community. -[3514.60 --> 3520.28] We are currently running about 18% behind in our budget to date. -[3520.28 --> 3528.16] It would be a huge blessing through you if we could exceed our budget and commitments for the year. -[3528.72 --> 3534.00] Over the next month, we need to collect over $100,000 to make that happen. -[3534.20 --> 3535.62] That seems like a huge amount. -[3535.76 --> 3539.94] But to God, when he speaks to our hearts, that can happen. -[3539.94 --> 3549.24] Please consider how you can give in support of all the ministries that we are involved with here at Langley Manual. -[3549.70 --> 3550.38] Thank you. -[3550.38 --> 3580.36] Thank you. -[3580.38 --> 3595.70] Cait -[3595.70 --> 3599.46] Your beautiful -[3599.46 --> 3610.70] Your face is all I see -[3610.70 --> 3620.10] And when your eyes are open -[3620.10 --> 3631.24] Your grace shall bow to me -[3631.24 --> 3641.48] Oh Lord, please light the light -[3641.48 --> 3649.52] That haunt her right and big -[3649.52 --> 3660.66] Replace the land of my first love -[3660.66 --> 3668.66] And births with only faith -[3668.66 --> 3675.16] I want to take your word -[3675.16 --> 3679.20] And shine it all around -[3679.20 --> 3686.80] First help me just to live it all -[3686.80 --> 3693.30] And when I'm doing well -[3693.30 --> 3697.94] Help me to never see the crown -[3697.94 --> 3701.94] For my reward is giving -[3701.94 --> 3708.44] For my reward is living for me -[3708.44 --> 3716.08] Oh Lord, your beautiful -[3716.08 --> 3726.58] Your face is all I see -[3726.58 --> 3739.22] And when your eyes are on this child -[3739.22 --> 3747.72] Your grace abounds to me -[3747.72 --> 3766.98] I'd like to invite any kids that are here today -[3766.98 --> 3770.12] If you're age three all the way up to grade four -[3770.12 --> 3773.08] We have our children's worship time program -[3773.08 --> 3776.94] That will continue our worship out in our preschool room -[3776.94 --> 3779.82] And with the older kids together -[3779.82 --> 3781.10] So if you're visiting with us -[3781.10 --> 3784.08] We would love to have you join us for children's worship time -[3784.08 --> 3787.80] You can come up now or just follow us when we leave -[3787.80 --> 3789.70] And we will help you get to where you need to go -[3789.70 --> 3793.52] We're going to just keep it short up here today -[3793.52 --> 3795.26] I'm going to save all my questions for you -[3795.26 --> 3796.58] When we get into the room -[3796.58 --> 3799.38] So I'm just going to invite you to stand -[3799.38 --> 3800.94] And we'll do the blessing right away -[3800.94 --> 3802.62] And then we're going to head off right away -[3802.62 --> 3803.42] To children's worship -[3803.42 --> 3812.62] The Lord be with you -[3812.62 --> 3814.62] And also with you -[3823.52 --> 3841.96] Good morning everyone -[3841.96 --> 3843.46] Steve and Elder here -[3843.46 --> 3845.48] And before I leave this -[3845.48 --> 3847.46] Family prayer this morning -[3847.46 --> 3849.78] Just a reminder that next week -[3849.78 --> 3852.40] Sunday evening at 5pm -[3852.40 --> 3854.42] We'll have the Try Soup Tournament -[3854.42 --> 3856.44] Where you make your best soup -[3856.44 --> 3857.68] And everyone tries it -[3857.68 --> 3858.86] And we have a little secret ballot -[3858.86 --> 3860.22] And pick a winner -[3860.22 --> 3862.52] And following that at 6pm -[3862.52 --> 3864.58] We'll have our fall AGM -[3864.58 --> 3867.80] To approve the 2025 budget -[3867.80 --> 3869.36] And hear ministry updates -[3869.36 --> 3871.70] From a couple ministries and missionaries -[3871.70 --> 3873.30] So great to see everyone out there -[3873.30 --> 3876.08] Let us pray -[3876.08 --> 3879.28] Heavenly Father -[3879.28 --> 3882.20] We come before you again this Sunday morning -[3882.20 --> 3883.72] As a group of believers -[3883.72 --> 3884.82] United in you -[3884.82 --> 3886.20] A group of people -[3886.20 --> 3888.02] With a wide variety of emotions -[3888.02 --> 3888.90] And feelings -[3888.90 --> 3890.90] Some of us come with joy -[3890.90 --> 3892.66] With reasons to be thankful -[3892.66 --> 3895.84] Some of us with a deep sense of contentment -[3895.84 --> 3898.02] Others have concerns and worries -[3898.02 --> 3899.44] Are sad and weary -[3899.44 --> 3900.64] Are burdened -[3900.64 --> 3901.60] And are frustrated -[3901.60 --> 3903.34] We are your people -[3903.34 --> 3904.82] And we know that in the end -[3904.82 --> 3905.72] We need to trust -[3905.72 --> 3907.58] That you will make all things right -[3907.58 --> 3909.14] But Lord -[3909.14 --> 3909.84] We are also -[3909.84 --> 3910.92] A fallen people -[3910.92 --> 3911.62] Who live in -[3911.62 --> 3913.40] And are influenced -[3913.40 --> 3914.70] By the world around us -[3914.70 --> 3915.96] We live in a world -[3915.96 --> 3916.92] That bombards us -[3916.92 --> 3917.96] With many messages -[3917.96 --> 3919.18] We are told -[3919.18 --> 3920.16] To put our head down -[3920.16 --> 3921.20] And keep on working -[3921.20 --> 3922.06] And that -[3922.06 --> 3923.38] If we try hard enough -[3923.38 --> 3924.58] It will be all well -[3924.58 --> 3925.76] And to never give up -[3925.76 --> 3926.50] To keep fighting -[3926.50 --> 3927.26] To strive -[3927.26 --> 3928.22] To attain our goals -[3928.22 --> 3929.70] Eternal God -[3929.70 --> 3930.68] Remind us -[3930.68 --> 3931.60] Again this morning -[3931.60 --> 3932.84] That the work -[3932.84 --> 3934.02] Has already been done -[3934.02 --> 3934.64] On the cross -[3934.64 --> 3936.28] That you have already -[3936.28 --> 3937.42] Paid the price for us -[3937.42 --> 3939.60] And that rather than striving -[3939.60 --> 3940.82] You call us to a life -[3940.82 --> 3941.86] Of submittal obedience -[3941.86 --> 3942.60] And trust -[3942.60 --> 3944.20] Help us to let go -[3944.20 --> 3945.30] Of our many gods -[3945.30 --> 3946.90] We worship in our lives -[3946.90 --> 3948.10] And to hear your call -[3948.10 --> 3951.64] We have grateful hearts -[3951.64 --> 3952.14] This morning -[3952.14 --> 3952.80] Thanking you -[3952.80 --> 3953.30] For the gift -[3953.30 --> 3954.00] Of new members -[3954.00 --> 3954.82] Baptisms -[3954.82 --> 3956.02] And professions of faith -[3956.02 --> 3957.04] We rejoice -[3957.04 --> 3957.74] In the talents -[3957.74 --> 3958.28] And service -[3958.28 --> 3959.36] Each of these individuals -[3959.36 --> 3960.26] Brings your kingdom -[3960.26 --> 3961.66] Enriching our congregation -[3961.66 --> 3963.24] We ask for -[3963.24 --> 3964.74] Guidance and support -[3964.74 --> 3966.10] Of each of these new members -[3966.10 --> 3967.42] As they find their place -[3967.42 --> 3967.96] Among us -[3967.96 --> 3969.06] May they feel welcomed -[3969.06 --> 3969.68] And valued -[3969.68 --> 3970.70] As part of this family -[3970.70 --> 3973.74] We give you thanks -[3973.74 --> 3976.08] That in even times of trouble -[3976.08 --> 3977.20] We may turn to you -[3977.20 --> 3977.98] That -[3977.98 --> 3980.78] That into your strong arms -[3980.78 --> 3982.28] We may offload our sins -[3982.28 --> 3982.94] Our weariness -[3982.94 --> 3983.56] And our pain -[3983.56 --> 3984.54] And our grief -[3984.54 --> 3986.30] We pray for all those -[3986.30 --> 3986.90] Who are struggling -[3986.90 --> 3988.18] With a heavy burden today -[3988.18 --> 3990.06] Including those that are grieving -[3990.06 --> 3991.22] Lonely -[3991.22 --> 3992.38] Anxious -[3992.38 --> 3994.06] Dealing with addiction -[3994.06 --> 3995.82] Struggling with their mental -[3995.82 --> 3996.76] And physical health -[3996.76 --> 3998.98] For those that are awaiting tests -[3998.98 --> 4000.06] Results of surgeries -[4000.06 --> 4001.24] Undergoing treatments -[4001.24 --> 4002.28] In pain -[4002.28 --> 4002.98] And recovering -[4002.98 --> 4004.62] Or dealing with long term -[4004.62 --> 4005.88] Health issues -[4005.88 --> 4008.08] Specifically this week -[4008.08 --> 4009.38] We pray for Linda Rook -[4009.38 --> 4010.06] Who was diagnosed -[4010.06 --> 4011.00] With breast cancer -[4011.00 --> 4012.22] And has had surgery -[4012.22 --> 4013.14] We are thankful -[4013.14 --> 4014.20] The surgery went well -[4014.20 --> 4015.48] And we pray that Linda -[4015.48 --> 4017.02] Will receive complete healing -[4017.02 --> 4018.16] And for peace -[4018.16 --> 4019.76] In Linda and Neil's hearts -[4019.76 --> 4020.38] As they navigate -[4020.38 --> 4021.18] Through the treatment -[4021.18 --> 4023.52] We pray for the family -[4023.52 --> 4024.26] Of Ernst de Vries -[4024.26 --> 4025.70] After his sudden passing -[4025.70 --> 4027.94] We are thankful -[4027.94 --> 4029.18] For Mary Fitzma's -[4029.18 --> 4030.60] Hip surgery -[4030.60 --> 4031.30] That went well -[4031.30 --> 4032.46] After her fall -[4032.46 --> 4033.58] We pray for God's -[4033.58 --> 4034.24] Continued healing -[4034.24 --> 4034.76] In her body -[4034.76 --> 4037.00] We pray for -[4037.00 --> 4038.32] Clary Kosterhof's -[4038.32 --> 4038.60] Dad -[4038.60 --> 4039.28] Who is undergoing -[4039.28 --> 4040.34] Some testing -[4040.34 --> 4041.10] We pray for -[4041.10 --> 4042.02] Encouraging results -[4042.02 --> 4042.74] And for clarity -[4042.74 --> 4043.92] For the decisions -[4043.92 --> 4044.98] That need to be made -[4044.98 --> 4046.94] And we pray for Ashley -[4046.94 --> 4048.46] And her family -[4048.46 --> 4049.34] As she continues -[4049.34 --> 4050.66] To undergo chemo treatment -[4050.66 --> 4051.60] We pray for -[4051.60 --> 4052.80] Complete healing -[4052.80 --> 4053.96] And strength for Ashley -[4053.96 --> 4057.26] Be with Pastor Chris -[4057.26 --> 4058.46] As he leads us this morning -[4058.46 --> 4059.88] Lord we thank you -[4059.88 --> 4060.50] For his willingness -[4060.50 --> 4061.50] To share his gifts -[4061.50 --> 4062.46] Talents and insights -[4062.46 --> 4063.24] Here with us -[4063.24 --> 4064.10] And Emmanuel -[4064.10 --> 4065.28] We ask you to bless him -[4065.28 --> 4066.46] And his message this morning -[4066.46 --> 4067.98] We pray this all -[4067.98 --> 4069.52] In the name of Jesus Christ -[4069.52 --> 4070.30] Your son -[4070.30 --> 4071.22] Our Lord -[4071.22 --> 4072.04] And savior -[4072.04 --> 4072.66] Amen -[4072.66 --> 4095.80] Here at Emmanuel -[4095.80 --> 4096.52] We have been -[4096.52 --> 4098.18] Looking at the story -[4098.18 --> 4098.78] Of Joseph -[4098.78 --> 4100.46] And we're going to -[4100.46 --> 4102.50] Finish that story -[4102.50 --> 4103.68] This morning -[4103.68 --> 4104.92] And so -[4104.92 --> 4106.74] Our like text -[4106.74 --> 4107.68] Of focus -[4107.68 --> 4108.48] Is going to be -[4108.48 --> 4109.88] From Genesis 50 -[4109.88 --> 4111.50] Starting at verse 15 -[4111.50 --> 4113.86] That will be on the screen -[4113.86 --> 4115.12] Behind me when I read it -[4115.12 --> 4115.72] But I'm not going to -[4115.72 --> 4117.12] Read it at the beginning -[4117.12 --> 4118.02] We're going to jump -[4118.02 --> 4119.52] Into the story -[4119.52 --> 4122.04] Sort of in the middle there -[4122.04 --> 4124.26] And get to the text -[4124.26 --> 4126.12] As we culminate -[4126.12 --> 4127.70] Our story together -[4127.70 --> 4129.36] I do want to say -[4129.36 --> 4130.76] That this morning -[4130.76 --> 4132.24] We are going to be -[4132.24 --> 4133.32] Looking at -[4133.32 --> 4135.42] The role and place -[4135.42 --> 4136.38] Of forgiveness -[4136.38 --> 4138.02] In the life -[4138.02 --> 4140.50] Of the Christian believer -[4140.50 --> 4143.26] Now if you've been -[4143.26 --> 4144.80] Around a church -[4144.80 --> 4145.48] Or really -[4145.48 --> 4146.66] Around any Christian -[4146.66 --> 4147.98] For hopefully -[4147.98 --> 4149.32] Any duration of time -[4149.32 --> 4150.46] But if only -[4150.46 --> 4151.54] For a little bit of time -[4151.54 --> 4154.50] The idea of forgiveness -[4154.50 --> 4155.92] And being forgiven -[4155.92 --> 4157.44] Is foundational -[4157.44 --> 4158.50] Is central -[4158.50 --> 4160.50] To who we are -[4160.50 --> 4161.72] As Christians -[4161.72 --> 4163.62] But this morning -[4163.62 --> 4164.46] Before we get in -[4164.46 --> 4165.36] I'm also mindful -[4165.36 --> 4166.06] Of the fact -[4166.06 --> 4167.20] As C.S. Lewis -[4167.20 --> 4168.14] Put it -[4168.14 --> 4169.50] Everyone says -[4169.50 --> 4171.22] Forgiveness is a lovely idea -[4171.22 --> 4172.96] Until they have something -[4172.96 --> 4173.52] To forgive -[4173.52 --> 4175.60] And so -[4175.60 --> 4176.62] As we engage -[4176.62 --> 4178.02] This morning -[4178.02 --> 4179.82] And think through -[4179.82 --> 4181.56] Our need for forgiveness -[4181.56 --> 4182.84] And our need -[4182.84 --> 4183.56] To forgive -[4183.56 --> 4184.92] I'm mindful -[4184.92 --> 4185.86] Of the fact -[4185.86 --> 4186.58] That some things -[4186.58 --> 4187.92] Might get stirred -[4187.92 --> 4188.84] This morning -[4188.84 --> 4189.24] And so -[4189.24 --> 4189.96] If that's true -[4189.96 --> 4191.16] I want to make myself -[4191.16 --> 4191.62] Available -[4191.62 --> 4193.40] Following our worship -[4193.40 --> 4194.56] I'll be at the -[4194.56 --> 4195.20] Connect booth -[4195.20 --> 4196.10] I'm also mindful -[4196.10 --> 4197.18] That there will be -[4197.18 --> 4197.90] Someone up here -[4197.90 --> 4199.16] With a yellow name tag on -[4199.16 --> 4200.10] That would love to meet you -[4200.10 --> 4201.14] And pray with you -[4201.14 --> 4203.18] And process these things -[4203.18 --> 4204.16] With you -[4204.16 --> 4206.34] And so -[4206.34 --> 4206.76] With that -[4206.76 --> 4208.18] Preamble -[4208.18 --> 4208.96] Let's -[4208.96 --> 4210.76] Remind ourselves -[4210.76 --> 4212.60] The story of Joseph -[4212.60 --> 4213.60] That we have been -[4213.60 --> 4215.22] Living in the midst of -[4215.22 --> 4216.20] And so -[4216.20 --> 4216.64] Joseph -[4216.64 --> 4218.36] Was the -[4218.36 --> 4219.64] Eleventh of -[4219.64 --> 4220.74] Twelve sons -[4220.74 --> 4221.76] To a man -[4221.76 --> 4223.12] Named Jacob -[4223.12 --> 4224.44] Joseph -[4224.44 --> 4225.44] Is the oldest -[4225.44 --> 4226.12] Child -[4226.12 --> 4227.52] Of Jacob's -[4227.52 --> 4228.72] Favorite wife -[4228.72 --> 4229.70] Rachel -[4229.70 --> 4232.08] Rachel has already -[4232.08 --> 4233.30] Died by the time -[4233.30 --> 4234.42] The Joseph story -[4234.42 --> 4235.48] As we have it here -[4235.48 --> 4236.46] Really begins -[4236.46 --> 4238.02] And Joseph -[4238.02 --> 4239.48] Is the obvious -[4239.48 --> 4240.22] Favorite -[4240.22 --> 4241.68] To his father -[4241.68 --> 4242.78] And Jacob -[4242.78 --> 4243.98] Doesn't hide that -[4243.98 --> 4244.86] From the rest -[4244.86 --> 4245.44] Of the family -[4245.44 --> 4247.54] You might know -[4247.54 --> 4248.68] The story a little bit -[4248.68 --> 4249.44] And know that -[4249.44 --> 4250.38] Jacob -[4250.38 --> 4251.98] Makes for Joseph -[4251.98 --> 4253.14] A beautiful -[4253.14 --> 4254.66] And ornate -[4254.66 --> 4255.24] Robe -[4255.24 --> 4256.76] Sometimes called -[4256.76 --> 4257.48] A technicolor -[4257.48 --> 4258.04] Dreamcoat -[4258.04 --> 4260.46] And the narrator -[4260.46 --> 4261.38] Of the story -[4261.38 --> 4262.50] Tells us that -[4262.50 --> 4264.72] When his brothers -[4264.72 --> 4265.96] Saw that their father -[4265.96 --> 4267.02] Loved him more -[4267.02 --> 4268.04] Than any of them -[4268.04 --> 4269.32] They hated him -[4269.32 --> 4270.88] And could not speak -[4270.88 --> 4271.76] A kind word -[4271.76 --> 4272.18] To him -[4272.18 --> 4274.34] Now as the story -[4274.34 --> 4274.84] Rolls -[4274.84 --> 4275.64] Joseph has -[4275.64 --> 4277.14] These two dreams -[4277.14 --> 4277.90] That tell -[4277.90 --> 4279.20] How his father -[4279.20 --> 4280.08] And brothers -[4280.08 --> 4281.30] And their families -[4281.30 --> 4282.36] Will bow down -[4282.36 --> 4282.78] To him -[4282.78 --> 4284.94] Now perhaps -[4284.94 --> 4285.88] Understandably -[4285.88 --> 4287.02] His brothers -[4287.02 --> 4287.88] Are jealous -[4287.88 --> 4289.08] And they're hurt -[4289.08 --> 4290.78] By his father's -[4290.78 --> 4291.66] Obvious -[4291.66 --> 4292.64] Favoritism -[4292.64 --> 4295.52] And to be candid -[4295.52 --> 4296.32] Joseph's -[4296.32 --> 4297.88] Apparent narcissism -[4297.88 --> 4298.58] Probably didn't -[4298.58 --> 4299.34] Help the situation -[4299.34 --> 4299.62] Either -[4299.62 --> 4302.06] Now while his brothers -[4302.06 --> 4302.84] Are out taking -[4302.84 --> 4304.08] Care of flocks -[4304.08 --> 4305.68] Jacob tells Joseph -[4305.68 --> 4306.28] To go -[4306.28 --> 4307.44] And to find out -[4307.44 --> 4308.44] How they're doing -[4308.44 --> 4309.84] Right -[4309.84 --> 4310.30] To find out -[4310.30 --> 4311.00] How it's going -[4311.00 --> 4311.98] Now Joseph -[4311.98 --> 4312.68] Eventually -[4312.68 --> 4313.68] Finds them -[4313.68 --> 4314.84] In an isolated -[4314.84 --> 4315.62] And distant -[4315.62 --> 4316.24] Location -[4316.24 --> 4317.02] Called Dothan -[4317.02 --> 4318.40] And while he is -[4318.40 --> 4319.52] Still a ways off -[4319.52 --> 4320.06] His brothers -[4320.06 --> 4320.64] See him -[4320.64 --> 4321.26] And they make -[4321.26 --> 4321.76] A plot -[4321.76 --> 4322.56] To kill him -[4322.56 --> 4324.40] They seize him -[4324.40 --> 4325.36] And throw him -[4325.36 --> 4326.02] Into a hole -[4326.02 --> 4326.74] In the ground -[4326.74 --> 4327.60] Which is an empty -[4327.60 --> 4328.72] Cistern -[4328.72 --> 4329.82] And instead -[4329.82 --> 4331.02] Of kill him -[4331.02 --> 4332.10] They decide -[4332.10 --> 4333.16] To sell him -[4333.16 --> 4334.00] To a group -[4334.00 --> 4334.62] Of traders -[4334.62 --> 4336.04] Who have -[4336.04 --> 4336.70] Meanwhile -[4336.70 --> 4337.60] Been traveling -[4337.60 --> 4339.02] Towards Egypt -[4339.02 --> 4340.88] The brothers -[4340.88 --> 4341.78] Take Joseph's -[4341.78 --> 4342.78] Beautiful robe -[4342.78 --> 4343.60] They cover it -[4343.60 --> 4344.50] In dirt and blood -[4344.50 --> 4345.16] And they bring it -[4345.16 --> 4346.00] Back to their father -[4346.00 --> 4346.60] And they say -[4346.60 --> 4347.30] Look your son -[4347.30 --> 4347.98] Has been killed -[4347.98 --> 4350.46] Now Joseph -[4350.46 --> 4350.98] Is carried -[4350.98 --> 4351.66] Into Egypt -[4351.66 --> 4352.28] By these -[4352.28 --> 4352.80] Traders -[4352.80 --> 4353.36] And he's -[4353.36 --> 4354.14] Made a slave -[4354.14 --> 4354.92] In the house -[4354.92 --> 4355.72] Of Potiphar -[4355.72 --> 4358.08] Even though -[4358.08 --> 4359.90] Everything he did -[4359.90 --> 4360.70] There while in the -[4360.70 --> 4361.42] House of Potiphar -[4361.42 --> 4362.18] Prospered -[4362.18 --> 4363.56] He eventually -[4363.56 --> 4365.16] Is falsely accused -[4365.16 --> 4366.38] By Potiphar's wife -[4366.38 --> 4366.78] Who had -[4366.78 --> 4368.38] Particular designs -[4368.38 --> 4368.98] For him -[4368.98 --> 4369.92] And he was -[4369.92 --> 4370.88] Thrown into -[4370.88 --> 4371.86] An Egyptian -[4371.86 --> 4372.84] Slave prison -[4372.84 --> 4375.10] And then Joseph -[4375.10 --> 4375.68] Spence -[4375.68 --> 4376.94] Spends years -[4376.94 --> 4377.90] In this -[4377.90 --> 4378.64] Prison -[4378.64 --> 4381.08] While in prison -[4381.08 --> 4382.04] He interprets -[4382.04 --> 4382.82] Dreams for -[4382.82 --> 4383.60] The chief -[4383.60 --> 4384.24] Cup baker -[4384.24 --> 4385.06] Of the court -[4385.06 --> 4385.72] Or the chief -[4385.72 --> 4386.56] Baker and the -[4386.56 --> 4387.44] Chief cup bearer -[4387.44 --> 4388.18] Of the court -[4388.18 --> 4388.74] To Pharaoh -[4388.74 --> 4389.70] Both of whom -[4389.70 --> 4390.52] Had been imprisoned -[4390.52 --> 4392.46] The cup bearer -[4392.46 --> 4393.14] Is eventually -[4393.14 --> 4394.50] Restored to Pharaoh -[4394.50 --> 4395.42] And goes back -[4395.42 --> 4395.96] To work -[4395.96 --> 4396.86] With him -[4396.86 --> 4398.48] And about -[4398.48 --> 4399.16] Two years -[4399.16 --> 4399.68] Later -[4399.68 --> 4401.26] Pharaoh has -[4401.26 --> 4402.32] Some dreams -[4402.32 --> 4403.14] That none of -[4403.14 --> 4404.10] His magicians -[4404.10 --> 4405.20] Or court officials -[4405.20 --> 4406.28] Are able to -[4406.28 --> 4407.60] Interpret -[4407.60 --> 4408.34] Or tell him -[4408.34 --> 4409.08] What they mean -[4409.08 --> 4410.22] And the cup bearer -[4410.22 --> 4411.22] Remembers -[4411.22 --> 4412.62] This slave -[4412.62 --> 4413.20] Joseph -[4413.20 --> 4414.26] Who interpreted -[4414.26 --> 4415.44] Dreams for him -[4415.44 --> 4416.40] When he was -[4416.40 --> 4417.22] In prison as well -[4417.22 --> 4418.78] And so Joseph -[4418.78 --> 4419.84] Going to Pharaoh -[4419.84 --> 4420.62] And by God -[4420.62 --> 4421.66] Revealing it to him -[4421.66 --> 4422.62] Tells Pharaoh -[4422.62 --> 4423.20] The meaning -[4423.20 --> 4424.48] Of these two dreams -[4424.48 --> 4426.00] He tells him -[4426.00 --> 4426.46] That there would be -[4426.46 --> 4427.80] Seven years of bounty -[4427.80 --> 4428.48] Followed by -[4428.48 --> 4429.50] Seven years of famine -[4429.50 --> 4431.74] Joseph has a plan -[4431.74 --> 4432.74] In light of this -[4432.74 --> 4433.84] To prepare Egypt -[4433.84 --> 4435.10] And to make her -[4435.10 --> 4436.18] A source of food -[4436.18 --> 4436.92] And of trade -[4436.92 --> 4437.86] And of prosperity -[4437.86 --> 4439.06] For the neighboring -[4439.06 --> 4439.88] People -[4439.88 --> 4441.90] During that seven years -[4441.90 --> 4442.72] Of famine -[4442.72 --> 4443.64] And what that means -[4443.64 --> 4444.26] For Egypt -[4444.26 --> 4445.96] Is that it hugely -[4445.96 --> 4447.08] Prospers -[4447.08 --> 4448.10] During this time -[4448.10 --> 4449.84] Now Pharaoh -[4449.84 --> 4450.60] Puts Joseph -[4450.60 --> 4451.32] In charge -[4451.32 --> 4452.14] Second only -[4452.14 --> 4452.78] To himself -[4452.78 --> 4454.24] And Joseph's plan -[4454.24 --> 4455.38] Goes into effect -[4455.38 --> 4456.30] And as Egypt -[4456.30 --> 4456.86] Prospers -[4456.86 --> 4457.56] So too -[4457.56 --> 4458.28] Joseph -[4458.28 --> 4458.98] Prospers -[4458.98 --> 4460.06] He marries -[4460.06 --> 4460.52] He has -[4460.52 --> 4461.56] Two children -[4461.56 --> 4463.50] And then eventually -[4463.50 --> 4465.80] Ten tired -[4465.80 --> 4466.76] Dusty -[4466.76 --> 4467.80] Hebrew men -[4467.80 --> 4468.44] Appear -[4468.44 --> 4469.96] At Joseph's door -[4469.96 --> 4471.40] Begging to buy grain -[4471.40 --> 4472.02] To keep -[4472.02 --> 4473.04] Their families -[4473.04 --> 4473.72] Alive -[4473.72 --> 4476.00] Now the brothers -[4476.00 --> 4477.36] Don't recognize -[4477.36 --> 4478.12] Joseph -[4478.12 --> 4479.02] Right -[4479.02 --> 4479.56] A generation -[4479.56 --> 4480.30] Has passed -[4480.30 --> 4481.96] And he appears -[4481.96 --> 4482.54] Before them -[4482.54 --> 4483.68] As Egyptian royalty -[4483.68 --> 4485.48] But Joseph -[4485.48 --> 4486.60] Recognizes -[4486.60 --> 4487.42] His brothers -[4487.42 --> 4489.14] And in part -[4489.14 --> 4489.98] Of the exchange -[4489.98 --> 4490.90] That they have -[4490.90 --> 4491.82] And is back and forth -[4491.82 --> 4492.78] We read that -[4492.78 --> 4493.60] Joseph had to -[4493.60 --> 4494.70] Hide his face -[4494.70 --> 4495.68] A number of times -[4495.68 --> 4496.68] Leave from them -[4496.68 --> 4497.64] For his weeping -[4497.64 --> 4499.80] And over the course -[4499.80 --> 4501.08] Of several meetings -[4501.08 --> 4501.62] And a trip -[4501.62 --> 4502.82] Back to Jacob -[4502.82 --> 4504.42] To collect Benjamin -[4504.42 --> 4505.76] Who is the youngest brother -[4505.76 --> 4507.28] Born also to Rachel -[4507.28 --> 4508.12] Joseph's mom -[4508.12 --> 4510.40] Probably the next favorite -[4510.40 --> 4511.16] To Jacob -[4511.16 --> 4512.82] And they are encouraged -[4512.82 --> 4513.86] Required to bring -[4513.86 --> 4515.28] Benjamin back to Egypt -[4515.28 --> 4516.56] And during all of this -[4516.56 --> 4517.94] Joseph is testing -[4517.94 --> 4519.56] His brothers -[4519.56 --> 4522.42] And as the story goes -[4522.42 --> 4523.14] And I realize -[4523.14 --> 4524.08] We are rushing -[4524.08 --> 4524.88] Through a little bit -[4524.88 --> 4525.86] As the story goes -[4525.86 --> 4526.54] His brothers -[4526.54 --> 4527.42] Have a choice -[4527.42 --> 4527.94] To make -[4527.94 --> 4530.36] Will they leave -[4530.36 --> 4531.58] Benjamin behind -[4531.58 --> 4532.56] In prison -[4532.56 --> 4535.20] Effectively selling him -[4535.20 --> 4536.42] For their own hides -[4536.42 --> 4538.50] Essentially doing -[4538.50 --> 4539.22] To Benjamin -[4539.22 --> 4539.94] What they did -[4539.94 --> 4540.50] To Joseph -[4540.50 --> 4541.42] A lifetime ago -[4541.42 --> 4542.76] Or -[4542.76 --> 4543.82] Would they do -[4543.82 --> 4544.72] Something different -[4544.72 --> 4545.54] This time -[4545.54 --> 4548.12] Now when they first -[4548.12 --> 4549.02] Sold Joseph -[4549.02 --> 4550.22] To the slave traders -[4550.22 --> 4550.86] At the beginning -[4550.86 --> 4551.48] Of the story -[4551.48 --> 4553.48] It was Judah -[4553.48 --> 4554.40] Who said -[4554.40 --> 4556.04] What will we gain -[4556.04 --> 4557.14] If we kill our brother -[4557.14 --> 4558.46] And cover up his blood -[4558.46 --> 4559.74] Come let's sell him -[4559.74 --> 4562.62] And now -[4562.62 --> 4563.46] Near the end -[4563.46 --> 4564.28] Of the story -[4564.28 --> 4565.50] This time -[4565.50 --> 4566.90] It is again Judah -[4566.90 --> 4568.10] Who steps forward -[4568.10 --> 4569.96] But now -[4569.96 --> 4572.38] He offers his own life -[4572.38 --> 4573.62] For his brothers -[4573.62 --> 4575.80] He makes not simply -[4575.80 --> 4577.02] A plea for mercy -[4577.02 --> 4578.98] But he makes -[4578.98 --> 4579.62] An offering -[4579.62 --> 4581.00] Of substitutionary -[4581.00 --> 4581.80] Suffering -[4581.80 --> 4583.88] He says -[4583.88 --> 4584.94] Now then -[4584.94 --> 4585.72] Let me -[4585.72 --> 4586.60] Your servant -[4586.60 --> 4587.50] Remain here -[4587.50 --> 4588.92] As my lord's slave -[4588.92 --> 4590.24] In place of the boy -[4590.24 --> 4592.24] Let the boy return -[4592.24 --> 4593.32] With his brothers -[4593.32 --> 4596.30] And when Joseph -[4596.30 --> 4597.50] Hears this -[4597.50 --> 4599.38] He can't contain -[4599.38 --> 4600.40] His emotions -[4600.40 --> 4601.54] Anymore -[4601.54 --> 4602.70] And he finally -[4602.70 --> 4603.48] Bursts out -[4603.48 --> 4604.18] And he says -[4604.18 --> 4604.40] To them -[4604.40 --> 4605.12] I am Joseph -[4605.12 --> 4606.02] I am the one -[4606.02 --> 4607.14] You sold into slavery -[4607.14 --> 4608.16] And then he adds -[4608.16 --> 4609.68] Do not be distressed -[4609.68 --> 4610.84] And do not be angry -[4610.84 --> 4611.62] With yourselves -[4611.62 --> 4612.76] For selling me here -[4612.76 --> 4613.84] Because it was -[4613.84 --> 4615.16] To save lives -[4615.16 --> 4616.32] That God sent me -[4616.32 --> 4617.34] Ahead of you -[4617.34 --> 4620.26] And then eventually -[4620.26 --> 4621.96] Jacob and all the family -[4621.96 --> 4623.46] Move to Egypt -[4623.46 --> 4625.34] And Joseph settles them -[4625.34 --> 4626.70] In the land of Goshen -[4626.70 --> 4628.40] Where they are fruitful -[4628.40 --> 4630.30] And increase in number -[4630.30 --> 4631.48] Calling back -[4631.48 --> 4632.02] All the way -[4632.02 --> 4632.64] To Genesis -[4632.64 --> 4633.86] One and two -[4633.86 --> 4636.00] And after 17 years -[4636.00 --> 4637.28] Of living in Egypt -[4637.28 --> 4638.62] Jacob dies -[4638.62 --> 4640.40] And again -[4640.40 --> 4641.26] His brothers -[4641.26 --> 4642.14] Are worried -[4642.14 --> 4642.92] That Joseph -[4642.92 --> 4643.66] Will take -[4643.66 --> 4644.90] Revenge on them -[4644.90 --> 4646.14] And that's where -[4646.14 --> 4646.68] We pick up -[4646.68 --> 4647.42] This last part -[4647.42 --> 4648.00] Of the story -[4648.00 --> 4651.18] Genesis 50 -[4651.18 --> 4652.68] Starting at verse 15 -[4652.68 --> 4656.46] When Joseph's brothers -[4656.46 --> 4657.64] Saw that their father -[4657.64 --> 4658.22] Was dead -[4658.22 --> 4659.46] They said -[4659.46 --> 4660.30] What if Joseph -[4660.30 --> 4661.08] Holds a grudge -[4661.08 --> 4661.70] Against us -[4661.70 --> 4662.58] And pays us back -[4662.58 --> 4663.38] For all the wrongs -[4663.38 --> 4664.02] We did to him -[4664.02 --> 4666.16] So they sent word -[4666.16 --> 4666.74] To Joseph -[4666.74 --> 4667.18] Saying -[4667.18 --> 4668.22] Your father -[4668.22 --> 4669.28] Left these instructions -[4669.28 --> 4670.32] Before he died -[4670.32 --> 4671.50] This is what you are -[4671.50 --> 4672.38] To say to Joseph -[4672.38 --> 4673.92] I ask you -[4673.92 --> 4674.54] To forgive -[4674.54 --> 4675.20] Your brothers -[4675.20 --> 4675.82] The sins -[4675.82 --> 4676.58] And the wrongs -[4676.58 --> 4677.06] They committed -[4677.06 --> 4677.76] In treating you -[4677.76 --> 4678.32] So badly -[4678.32 --> 4679.98] Now please -[4679.98 --> 4680.96] Forgive the sins -[4680.96 --> 4681.68] Of the servant -[4681.68 --> 4682.24] Of God -[4682.24 --> 4683.32] Of the God -[4683.32 --> 4683.92] Of your father -[4683.92 --> 4685.50] And when their message -[4685.50 --> 4686.26] Came to him -[4686.26 --> 4687.84] Joseph wept -[4687.84 --> 4690.14] His brothers -[4690.14 --> 4690.76] Then came -[4690.76 --> 4691.52] And threw themselves -[4691.52 --> 4692.38] Down before him -[4692.38 --> 4693.50] We are your slaves -[4693.50 --> 4694.14] They said -[4694.14 --> 4696.16] But Joseph said -[4696.16 --> 4696.48] To them -[4696.48 --> 4697.84] Do not be afraid -[4697.84 --> 4699.18] Am I in the place -[4699.18 --> 4699.68] Of God -[4699.68 --> 4700.74] You intended -[4700.74 --> 4701.48] To harm me -[4701.48 --> 4702.20] But God -[4702.20 --> 4702.80] Intended it -[4702.80 --> 4703.34] For good -[4703.34 --> 4704.00] To accomplish -[4704.00 --> 4704.58] What is now -[4704.58 --> 4705.18] Being done -[4705.18 --> 4706.08] The saving -[4706.08 --> 4707.16] Of many lives -[4707.16 --> 4708.50] So then -[4708.50 --> 4709.50] Don't be afraid -[4709.50 --> 4710.82] I will provide -[4710.82 --> 4711.30] For you -[4711.30 --> 4712.06] And your children -[4712.06 --> 4713.44] And he reassured -[4713.44 --> 4713.72] Them -[4713.72 --> 4715.12] And spoke kindly -[4715.12 --> 4715.70] To them -[4715.70 --> 4718.22] Joseph stayed -[4718.22 --> 4718.70] In Egypt -[4718.70 --> 4719.48] Along with his -[4719.48 --> 4720.22] Father's family -[4720.22 --> 4721.00] He lived -[4721.00 --> 4722.04] 110 years -[4722.04 --> 4722.70] And saw -[4722.70 --> 4723.80] The third generation -[4723.80 --> 4724.92] Of Ephraim's children -[4724.92 --> 4726.16] And also the children -[4726.16 --> 4726.84] Of Machir -[4726.84 --> 4727.96] Son of Manasseh -[4727.96 --> 4729.08] Were placed at birth -[4729.08 --> 4730.00] On Joseph's knees -[4730.00 --> 4731.86] Then Joseph said -[4731.86 --> 4732.48] To his brothers -[4732.48 --> 4734.20] I am about to die -[4734.20 --> 4735.64] But God will surely -[4735.64 --> 4736.52] Come to your aid -[4736.52 --> 4737.26] And take you up -[4737.26 --> 4738.16] Out of this land -[4738.16 --> 4738.70] To the land -[4738.70 --> 4739.22] He promised -[4739.22 --> 4739.70] On oath -[4739.70 --> 4740.24] To Abraham -[4740.24 --> 4741.06] Isaac -[4741.06 --> 4741.72] And Jacob -[4741.72 --> 4742.94] And Joseph -[4742.94 --> 4743.80] Made the Israelites -[4743.80 --> 4744.62] Swear an oath -[4744.62 --> 4745.02] And said -[4745.02 --> 4746.18] God will surely -[4746.18 --> 4747.18] Come to your aid -[4747.18 --> 4748.00] And then you must -[4748.00 --> 4749.08] Carry my bones -[4749.08 --> 4750.24] Up from this place -[4750.24 --> 4752.28] So Joseph died -[4752.28 --> 4752.90] At the age -[4752.90 --> 4753.60] Of 110 -[4753.60 --> 4755.02] And after they -[4755.02 --> 4755.62] Embalmed him -[4755.62 --> 4756.30] He was placed -[4756.30 --> 4756.94] In a coffin -[4756.94 --> 4758.36] In Egypt -[4758.36 --> 4759.82] This is the word -[4759.82 --> 4760.22] Of the Lord -[4760.22 --> 4765.66] You intended to harm -[4765.66 --> 4766.00] Me -[4766.00 --> 4767.94] But God intended -[4767.94 --> 4769.46] It for good -[4769.46 --> 4770.58] To accomplish -[4770.58 --> 4771.18] What is now -[4771.18 --> 4771.78] Being done -[4771.78 --> 4772.92] The saving -[4772.92 --> 4774.98] Of many lives -[4774.98 --> 4778.26] Throughout this series -[4778.26 --> 4779.92] We have been -[4779.92 --> 4780.84] Holding up -[4780.84 --> 4782.42] Two truths -[4782.42 --> 4783.68] On the one hand -[4783.68 --> 4784.44] The sovereignty -[4784.44 --> 4785.16] Of God -[4785.16 --> 4785.60] Right -[4785.60 --> 4786.94] Displayed now -[4786.94 --> 4787.36] For us -[4787.36 --> 4788.20] In this story -[4788.20 --> 4789.38] In that God -[4789.38 --> 4790.22] Has used -[4790.22 --> 4791.20] These particular -[4791.20 --> 4791.92] Evils -[4791.92 --> 4793.26] For his -[4793.26 --> 4794.12] Particular -[4794.12 --> 4794.86] Good -[4794.86 --> 4795.84] He has used -[4795.84 --> 4796.86] The intentions -[4796.86 --> 4798.00] Of his brothers -[4798.00 --> 4799.52] For his good -[4799.52 --> 4800.80] And glory -[4800.80 --> 4802.62] Sovereignty -[4802.62 --> 4804.04] Is the idea -[4804.04 --> 4805.10] That God -[4805.10 --> 4805.72] Rules -[4805.72 --> 4806.60] And reigns -[4806.60 --> 4807.44] Over all -[4807.44 --> 4808.64] Of creation -[4808.64 --> 4809.50] That nothing -[4809.50 --> 4810.28] Happens -[4810.28 --> 4811.18] Without his -[4811.18 --> 4811.92] Will -[4811.92 --> 4812.90] In him -[4812.90 --> 4813.68] We live -[4813.68 --> 4814.38] And move -[4814.38 --> 4815.02] And have -[4815.02 --> 4815.88] Our being -[4815.88 --> 4817.16] From the grand -[4817.16 --> 4817.82] Sweeping -[4817.82 --> 4818.50] Movements -[4818.50 --> 4819.32] Of history -[4819.32 --> 4820.16] In the -[4820.16 --> 4820.82] Machinations -[4820.82 --> 4821.98] Of political -[4821.98 --> 4822.50] Power -[4822.50 --> 4823.24] And personal -[4823.24 --> 4823.88] Scheming -[4823.88 --> 4824.58] To the -[4824.58 --> 4825.90] Singular hair -[4825.90 --> 4826.66] Falling out -[4826.66 --> 4827.38] Of our -[4827.38 --> 4828.26] Heads -[4828.26 --> 4829.40] God is -[4829.40 --> 4830.62] In control -[4830.62 --> 4832.34] Now sometimes -[4832.34 --> 4833.32] This is called -[4833.32 --> 4834.62] Big God -[4834.62 --> 4835.44] Theology -[4835.44 --> 4837.22] I have a friend -[4837.22 --> 4838.12] Who was a missionary -[4838.12 --> 4839.02] In Africa -[4839.02 --> 4840.58] For a period -[4840.58 --> 4841.00] Of time -[4841.00 --> 4842.34] And he would -[4842.34 --> 4842.88] Tell us -[4842.88 --> 4843.88] About a song -[4843.88 --> 4844.82] That they would -[4844.82 --> 4845.24] Sing -[4845.24 --> 4845.60] When they -[4845.60 --> 4845.94] Gathered -[4845.94 --> 4846.22] Together -[4846.22 --> 4846.60] Worship -[4846.60 --> 4847.04] Called -[4847.04 --> 4847.52] God -[4847.52 --> 4848.06] Is a -[4848.06 --> 4848.28] Big -[4848.28 --> 4848.50] Big -[4848.50 --> 4848.86] God -[4848.86 --> 4850.78] And that's -[4850.78 --> 4851.34] What it means -[4851.34 --> 4851.72] For him -[4851.72 --> 4852.44] To be king -[4852.44 --> 4853.96] Right -[4853.96 --> 4854.50] That God -[4854.50 --> 4855.58] Is sovereign -[4855.58 --> 4856.04] That he -[4856.04 --> 4856.88] Rules -[4856.88 --> 4858.70] That everything -[4858.70 --> 4859.62] Happens -[4859.62 --> 4860.64] Not by chance -[4860.64 --> 4861.94] But by his -[4861.94 --> 4862.72] Fatherly will -[4862.72 --> 4866.12] Evelyn Underhill -[4866.12 --> 4867.84] Who was a writer -[4867.84 --> 4869.20] Reflecting on the -[4869.20 --> 4869.98] Story of -[4869.98 --> 4870.52] Elizabeth -[4870.52 --> 4871.42] Elliot -[4871.42 --> 4872.42] Elizabeth -[4872.42 --> 4872.96] Elliot -[4872.96 --> 4873.36] With her -[4873.36 --> 4873.78] Husband -[4873.78 --> 4874.36] Was a -[4874.36 --> 4874.92] Missionary -[4874.92 --> 4875.90] To unreached -[4875.90 --> 4876.58] People groups -[4876.58 --> 4876.88] In the -[4876.88 --> 4877.24] Amazon -[4877.24 --> 4877.72] Jungles -[4877.72 --> 4878.40] Of Ecuador -[4878.40 --> 4880.14] The tribes -[4880.14 --> 4880.46] That they -[4880.46 --> 4881.24] Were serving -[4881.24 --> 4882.06] And working -[4882.06 --> 4882.36] With -[4882.36 --> 4883.10] Actually killed -[4883.10 --> 4883.76] Her husband -[4883.76 --> 4884.76] When they -[4884.76 --> 4885.24] Arrived -[4885.24 --> 4885.52] There -[4885.52 --> 4887.18] Underhill -[4887.18 --> 4887.80] Reflecting -[4887.80 --> 4888.96] On Elizabeth's -[4888.96 --> 4889.36] Story -[4889.36 --> 4890.44] Says -[4890.44 --> 4891.16] If God -[4891.16 --> 4891.74] Were small -[4891.74 --> 4892.04] Enough -[4892.04 --> 4892.38] To be -[4892.38 --> 4892.84] Understood -[4892.84 --> 4893.94] He -[4893.94 --> 4894.24] Wouldn't -[4894.24 --> 4894.66] Be big -[4894.66 --> 4894.98] Enough -[4894.98 --> 4895.52] To be -[4895.52 --> 4895.96] Worshipped -[4895.96 --> 4898.08] God -[4898.08 --> 4898.74] Is a -[4898.74 --> 4899.00] Big -[4899.00 --> 4900.12] God -[4900.12 --> 4900.36] He -[4900.36 --> 4901.14] Is worthy -[4901.14 --> 4902.00] Of -[4902.00 --> 4902.84] Worship -[4902.84 --> 4903.34] That's -[4903.34 --> 4903.82] What -[4903.82 --> 4904.52] Sovereignty -[4904.52 --> 4905.70] Means -[4905.70 --> 4907.76] And the -[4907.76 --> 4907.92] Other -[4907.92 --> 4908.26] Thing -[4908.26 --> 4908.54] That we -[4908.54 --> 4908.66] Have -[4908.66 --> 4908.82] Been -[4908.82 --> 4909.16] Looking -[4909.16 --> 4909.64] At -[4909.64 --> 4910.36] And holding -[4910.36 --> 4910.58] Up -[4910.58 --> 4911.24] Alongside -[4911.24 --> 4911.52] Of -[4911.52 --> 4911.86] This -[4911.86 --> 4912.62] Is that -[4912.62 --> 4913.70] Humans -[4913.70 --> 4914.76] Suffer -[4914.76 --> 4916.64] In the -[4916.64 --> 4917.08] Words -[4917.08 --> 4917.80] Of the -[4917.80 --> 4918.30] Famous -[4918.30 --> 4918.98] 20th -[4918.98 --> 4919.44] Century -[4919.44 --> 4920.18] Philosopher -[4920.18 --> 4920.76] The -[4920.76 --> 4921.26] Dread -[4921.26 --> 4921.92] Pirate -[4921.92 --> 4922.54] Roberts -[4922.54 --> 4923.72] Life -[4923.72 --> 4924.02] Is -[4924.02 --> 4924.44] Pain -[4924.44 --> 4924.96] Highness -[4924.96 --> 4926.10] Anyone -[4926.10 --> 4926.42] Who -[4926.42 --> 4926.76] Says -[4926.76 --> 4927.28] Differently -[4927.28 --> 4927.52] Is -[4927.52 --> 4927.82] Selling -[4927.82 --> 4928.24] Something -[4928.24 --> 4930.24] That's -[4930.24 --> 4930.56] Princess -[4930.56 --> 4931.00] Bride -[4931.00 --> 4931.18] If -[4931.18 --> 4931.30] You -[4931.30 --> 4931.54] Missed -[4931.54 --> 4931.72] It -[4931.72 --> 4932.64] Excellent -[4932.64 --> 4932.94] Movie -[4932.94 --> 4933.12] Even -[4933.12 --> 4933.30] My -[4933.30 --> 4933.48] Kids -[4933.48 --> 4933.68] Love -[4933.68 --> 4933.86] It -[4933.86 --> 4935.72] Now -[4935.72 --> 4935.92] I -[4935.92 --> 4936.06] Don't -[4936.06 --> 4936.24] Have -[4936.24 --> 4936.36] To -[4936.36 --> 4936.62] Tell -[4936.62 --> 4936.98] You -[4936.98 --> 4937.50] That -[4937.50 --> 4937.66] The -[4937.66 --> 4938.02] World -[4938.02 --> 4938.46] Isn't -[4938.46 --> 4938.60] The -[4938.60 --> 4938.90] Way -[4938.90 --> 4939.30] It's -[4939.30 --> 4939.68] Supposed -[4939.68 --> 4939.82] To -[4939.82 --> 4940.06] Be -[4940.06 --> 4940.48] Right -[4940.48 --> 4940.62] That -[4940.62 --> 4941.18] Life -[4941.18 --> 4941.44] Is -[4941.44 --> 4941.74] Full -[4941.74 --> 4941.94] Of -[4941.94 --> 4942.42] Trials -[4942.42 --> 4942.84] And -[4942.84 --> 4943.34] Struggles -[4943.34 --> 4943.56] And -[4943.56 --> 4944.18] Temptations -[4944.18 --> 4944.70] And -[4944.70 --> 4945.18] Traumas -[4945.18 --> 4945.50] And -[4945.50 --> 4945.64] That -[4945.64 --> 4946.32] Sometimes -[4946.32 --> 4946.94] It -[4946.94 --> 4947.22] Just -[4947.22 --> 4947.72] Seems -[4947.72 --> 4948.38] Impossible -[4948.38 --> 4949.14] To -[4949.14 --> 4949.40] Bear -[4949.40 --> 4951.04] And -[4951.04 --> 4951.18] In -[4951.18 --> 4951.42] This -[4951.42 --> 4951.78] Series -[4951.78 --> 4952.14] We -[4952.14 --> 4952.30] Have -[4952.30 --> 4952.44] Been -[4952.44 --> 4952.70] Looking -[4952.70 --> 4952.92] At -[4952.92 --> 4953.18] How -[4953.18 --> 4953.40] We -[4953.40 --> 4953.60] Can -[4953.60 --> 4954.10] Trust -[4954.10 --> 4954.60] The -[4954.60 --> 4955.14] Sovereignty -[4955.14 --> 4955.42] Of -[4955.42 --> 4955.82] God -[4955.82 --> 4956.28] In -[4956.28 --> 4956.44] The -[4956.44 --> 4956.82] Midst -[4956.82 --> 4957.14] Of -[4957.14 --> 4957.46] Our -[4957.46 --> 4958.14] Suffering -[4958.14 --> 4959.46] And -[4959.46 --> 4960.02] Joseph's -[4960.02 --> 4960.38] Story -[4960.38 --> 4960.70] Is -[4960.70 --> 4961.30] Really -[4961.30 --> 4962.12] Compelling -[4962.12 --> 4962.82] In -[4962.82 --> 4963.06] This -[4963.06 --> 4963.34] Way -[4963.34 --> 4964.92] Right -[4964.92 --> 4965.28] Especially -[4965.28 --> 4965.72] Now -[4965.72 --> 4966.18] Standing -[4966.18 --> 4966.50] Here -[4966.50 --> 4966.66] At -[4966.66 --> 4966.80] The -[4966.80 --> 4967.08] End -[4967.08 --> 4967.22] Of -[4967.22 --> 4967.40] The -[4967.40 --> 4967.92] Story -[4967.92 --> 4969.24] Right -[4969.24 --> 4969.46] Our -[4969.46 --> 4970.42] Perspective -[4970.42 --> 4971.14] Changes -[4971.14 --> 4972.58] Because -[4972.58 --> 4972.76] We -[4972.76 --> 4972.88] Are -[4972.88 --> 4973.06] Given -[4973.06 --> 4973.24] A -[4973.24 --> 4973.62] Glimpse -[4973.62 --> 4973.98] Into -[4973.98 --> 4974.48] Something -[4974.48 --> 4974.96] And -[4974.96 --> 4975.10] A -[4975.10 --> 4975.40] Truth -[4975.40 --> 4976.18] But -[4976.18 --> 4976.32] In -[4976.32 --> 4976.48] The -[4976.48 --> 4976.74] Middle -[4976.74 --> 4976.94] Of -[4976.94 --> 4977.10] The -[4977.10 --> 4977.56] Story -[4977.56 --> 4979.28] It -[4979.28 --> 4979.40] Can -[4979.40 --> 4979.50] Be -[4979.50 --> 4979.74] Really -[4979.74 --> 4979.96] Hard -[4979.96 --> 4980.14] To -[4980.14 --> 4980.32] See -[4980.32 --> 4982.80] Right -[4982.80 --> 4982.96] When -[4982.96 --> 4983.32] Joseph -[4983.32 --> 4983.76] Cried -[4983.76 --> 4984.00] Out -[4984.00 --> 4984.20] From -[4984.20 --> 4984.38] The -[4984.38 --> 4984.96] Cistern -[4984.96 --> 4986.58] Did -[4986.58 --> 4986.84] God -[4986.84 --> 4987.10] Really -[4987.10 --> 4987.36] Not -[4987.36 --> 4987.58] Hear -[4987.58 --> 4987.84] Him -[4987.84 --> 4990.24] But -[4990.24 --> 4990.40] When -[4990.40 --> 4990.78] Everything -[4990.78 --> 4990.98] In -[4990.98 --> 4991.10] His -[4991.10 --> 4991.42] Life -[4991.42 --> 4991.76] Was -[4991.76 --> 4992.42] Endless -[4992.42 --> 4992.92] Struggle -[4992.92 --> 4993.28] After -[4993.28 --> 4993.76] Endless -[4993.76 --> 4994.18] Struggle -[4994.18 --> 4994.48] After -[4994.48 --> 4994.94] Endless -[4994.94 --> 4995.34] Struggle -[4995.34 --> 4996.08] Impossible -[4996.08 --> 4996.74] Situation -[4996.74 --> 4997.00] After -[4997.00 --> 4997.44] Impossible -[4997.44 --> 4998.00] Situation -[4998.00 --> 4998.50] After -[4998.50 --> 4999.00] Impossible -[4999.00 --> 4999.58] Situation -[4999.58 --> 5000.00] When -[5000.00 --> 5000.58] Everything -[5000.58 --> 5001.04] Seemed -[5001.04 --> 5001.22] To -[5001.22 --> 5001.36] Be -[5001.36 --> 5001.60] Going -[5001.60 --> 5002.24] Absolutely -[5002.24 --> 5002.90] Wrong -[5002.90 --> 5003.14] For -[5003.14 --> 5003.46] Joseph -[5003.46 --> 5003.86] Was -[5003.86 --> 5004.08] God -[5004.08 --> 5004.26] Not -[5004.26 --> 5004.50] There -[5004.50 --> 5007.76] Because -[5007.76 --> 5007.92] In -[5007.92 --> 5008.06] That -[5008.06 --> 5008.44] Moment -[5008.44 --> 5009.50] That's -[5009.50 --> 5009.64] Sure -[5009.64 --> 5009.78] What -[5009.78 --> 5009.90] It -[5009.90 --> 5010.12] Feels -[5010.12 --> 5010.46] Like -[5010.46 --> 5012.94] But -[5012.94 --> 5013.18] Joseph -[5013.18 --> 5013.62] Says -[5013.62 --> 5014.78] Because -[5014.78 --> 5015.20] It -[5015.20 --> 5015.38] Was -[5015.38 --> 5015.54] To -[5015.54 --> 5015.88] Save -[5015.88 --> 5016.42] Lives -[5016.42 --> 5016.64] That -[5016.64 --> 5016.86] God -[5016.86 --> 5017.20] Sent -[5017.20 --> 5017.46] Me -[5017.46 --> 5018.26] Ahead -[5018.26 --> 5018.40] Of -[5018.40 --> 5018.56] You -[5018.56 --> 5019.68] You -[5019.68 --> 5020.20] Intended -[5020.20 --> 5020.40] To -[5020.40 --> 5020.70] Harm -[5020.70 --> 5020.94] Me -[5020.94 --> 5021.14] But -[5021.14 --> 5021.46] God -[5021.46 --> 5021.82] Intended -[5021.82 --> 5021.96] It -[5021.96 --> 5022.12] For -[5022.12 --> 5022.42] Good -[5022.42 --> 5022.88] To -[5022.88 --> 5023.30] Accomplish -[5023.30 --> 5023.42] What -[5023.42 --> 5023.50] Is -[5023.50 --> 5023.70] Now -[5023.70 --> 5023.94] Being -[5023.94 --> 5024.24] Done -[5024.24 --> 5024.64] The -[5024.64 --> 5024.98] Saving -[5024.98 --> 5025.16] Of -[5025.16 --> 5025.34] Many -[5025.34 --> 5025.72] Lives -[5025.72 --> 5026.34] God -[5026.34 --> 5026.74] Was -[5026.74 --> 5027.10] There -[5027.10 --> 5027.96] God -[5027.96 --> 5028.34] Was -[5028.34 --> 5028.80] Working -[5028.80 --> 5029.60] He -[5029.60 --> 5029.80] Was -[5029.80 --> 5030.10] Hidden -[5030.10 --> 5031.06] Yes -[5031.06 --> 5032.32] But -[5032.32 --> 5032.46] He -[5032.46 --> 5032.64] Was -[5032.64 --> 5033.12] Also -[5033.12 --> 5033.58] In -[5033.58 --> 5034.30] Complete -[5034.30 --> 5035.34] Control -[5035.34 --> 5036.76] The -[5036.76 --> 5037.54] Hiddenness -[5037.54 --> 5037.76] Of -[5037.76 --> 5038.20] God -[5038.20 --> 5038.68] Is -[5038.68 --> 5038.96] Not -[5038.96 --> 5039.22] The -[5039.22 --> 5039.60] Same -[5039.60 --> 5039.88] As -[5039.88 --> 5040.08] The -[5040.08 --> 5040.58] Absence -[5040.58 --> 5040.82] Of -[5040.82 --> 5041.14] God -[5041.14 --> 5042.84] Some -[5042.84 --> 5042.96] Of -[5042.96 --> 5043.08] Us -[5043.08 --> 5043.20] Need -[5043.20 --> 5043.28] To -[5043.28 --> 5043.38] Hear -[5043.38 --> 5043.52] That -[5043.52 --> 5043.72] Again -[5043.72 --> 5044.10] The -[5044.10 --> 5044.72] Hiddenness -[5044.72 --> 5044.92] Of -[5044.92 --> 5045.32] God -[5045.32 --> 5045.62] Is -[5045.62 --> 5045.96] Not -[5045.96 --> 5046.24] The -[5046.24 --> 5046.68] Same -[5046.68 --> 5047.14] As -[5047.14 --> 5047.34] The -[5047.34 --> 5047.98] Absence -[5047.98 --> 5048.74] Of -[5048.74 --> 5049.06] God -[5049.06 --> 5052.06] That's -[5052.06 --> 5052.18] What -[5052.18 --> 5052.30] The -[5052.30 --> 5052.54] Story -[5052.54 --> 5052.70] Of -[5052.70 --> 5052.98] Joseph -[5052.98 --> 5053.40] Is -[5053.40 --> 5053.70] Telling -[5053.70 --> 5054.00] Us -[5054.00 --> 5055.48] Right -[5055.48 --> 5055.80] God -[5055.80 --> 5056.22] Was -[5056.22 --> 5056.66] Hearing -[5056.66 --> 5058.16] God -[5058.16 --> 5058.52] Was -[5058.52 --> 5059.18] Responding -[5059.18 --> 5059.38] To -[5059.38 --> 5059.74] Joseph -[5059.74 --> 5060.62] Prayers -[5060.62 --> 5060.78] To -[5060.78 --> 5060.94] His -[5060.94 --> 5061.24] Cries -[5061.24 --> 5061.44] For -[5061.44 --> 5061.66] Help -[5061.66 --> 5062.02] To -[5062.02 --> 5062.20] His -[5062.20 --> 5062.48] Need -[5062.48 --> 5062.68] For -[5062.68 --> 5063.24] Salvation -[5063.24 --> 5065.42] But -[5065.42 --> 5065.56] Just -[5065.56 --> 5065.80] Not -[5065.80 --> 5065.96] In -[5065.96 --> 5066.06] The -[5066.06 --> 5066.36] Way -[5066.36 --> 5066.90] Or -[5066.90 --> 5067.04] The -[5067.04 --> 5067.62] Forms -[5067.62 --> 5068.02] Or -[5068.02 --> 5068.16] The -[5068.16 --> 5068.66] Times -[5068.66 --> 5069.92] That -[5069.92 --> 5070.16] Joseph -[5070.16 --> 5070.88] Was -[5070.88 --> 5071.22] Asking -[5071.22 --> 5071.52] For -[5071.52 --> 5074.50] In -[5074.50 --> 5074.64] The -[5074.64 --> 5074.94] End -[5074.94 --> 5075.24] This -[5075.24 --> 5075.76] Story -[5075.76 --> 5076.44] And -[5076.44 --> 5076.62] Your -[5076.62 --> 5077.04] Life -[5077.04 --> 5078.54] Is -[5078.54 --> 5078.74] About -[5078.74 --> 5079.24] Trust -[5079.24 --> 5081.04] Do -[5081.04 --> 5081.26] You -[5081.26 --> 5081.72] Trust -[5081.72 --> 5082.04] In -[5082.04 --> 5082.26] The -[5082.26 --> 5082.90] Bigness -[5082.90 --> 5083.72] Of -[5083.72 --> 5084.50] God -[5084.50 --> 5084.94] Do -[5084.94 --> 5085.06] You -[5085.06 --> 5085.36] Trust -[5085.36 --> 5085.50] In -[5085.50 --> 5085.66] The -[5085.66 --> 5086.12] Sovereignty -[5086.12 --> 5086.64] Of -[5086.64 --> 5086.88] God -[5086.88 --> 5087.52] Or -[5087.52 --> 5089.22] Do -[5089.22 --> 5089.34] You -[5089.34 --> 5089.62] Trust -[5089.62 --> 5089.74] In -[5089.74 --> 5089.88] Your -[5089.88 --> 5090.20] Self -[5090.20 --> 5091.68] In -[5091.68 --> 5091.80] Your -[5091.80 --> 5091.96] Own -[5091.96 --> 5092.34] Power -[5092.34 --> 5092.68] To -[5092.68 --> 5093.08] Bring -[5093.08 --> 5093.46] About -[5093.46 --> 5093.98] Something -[5093.98 --> 5095.72] Right -[5095.72 --> 5095.90] That's -[5095.90 --> 5096.02] What -[5096.02 --> 5096.48] Profession -[5096.48 --> 5096.64] Of -[5096.64 --> 5096.94] Faith -[5096.94 --> 5097.28] Is -[5097.28 --> 5097.30] Is -[5097.30 --> 5097.94] Really -[5097.94 --> 5098.38] About -[5098.38 --> 5098.88] Right -[5098.88 --> 5099.04] That's -[5099.04 --> 5099.14] What -[5099.14 --> 5099.30] Being -[5099.30 --> 5099.48] A -[5099.48 --> 5099.80] Christian -[5099.80 --> 5100.08] Is -[5100.08 --> 5100.34] Really -[5100.34 --> 5100.64] About -[5100.64 --> 5101.00] One -[5101.00 --> 5101.08] Of -[5101.08 --> 5101.22] The -[5101.22 --> 5101.74] Simplest -[5101.74 --> 5102.52] Definitions -[5102.52 --> 5102.76] Of -[5102.76 --> 5103.04] Being -[5103.04 --> 5103.26] A -[5103.26 --> 5103.58] Christian -[5103.58 --> 5104.04] Is -[5104.04 --> 5104.60] Trusting -[5104.60 --> 5105.04] God -[5105.04 --> 5105.46] More -[5105.46 --> 5105.70] Than -[5105.70 --> 5105.86] You -[5105.86 --> 5106.14] Trust -[5106.14 --> 5106.64] Yourself -[5106.64 --> 5107.86] Right -[5107.86 --> 5108.18] Even -[5108.18 --> 5108.38] When -[5108.38 --> 5108.58] All -[5108.58 --> 5108.82] Hell -[5108.82 --> 5109.02] Is -[5109.02 --> 5109.32] Breaking -[5109.32 --> 5109.64] Loose -[5109.64 --> 5109.98] Around -[5109.98 --> 5110.28] You -[5110.28 --> 5111.94] God -[5111.94 --> 5112.80] Is -[5112.80 --> 5113.98] Trustworthy -[5113.98 --> 5116.58] Joseph -[5116.58 --> 5116.88] Isn't -[5116.88 --> 5117.02] A -[5117.02 --> 5117.26] Perfect -[5117.26 --> 5117.54] Man -[5117.54 --> 5117.78] Far -[5117.78 --> 5118.00] From -[5118.00 --> 5118.14] It -[5118.14 --> 5119.32] But -[5119.32 --> 5119.46] He -[5119.46 --> 5119.78] Shows -[5119.78 --> 5119.96] Us -[5119.96 --> 5120.46] Trust -[5120.46 --> 5121.72] In -[5121.72 --> 5121.90] These -[5121.90 --> 5122.34] Moments -[5122.34 --> 5124.12] And -[5124.12 --> 5124.24] The -[5124.24 --> 5124.58] Reality -[5124.58 --> 5124.78] Of -[5124.78 --> 5124.96] This -[5124.96 --> 5125.40] Story -[5125.40 --> 5125.64] The -[5125.64 --> 5125.94] Beauty -[5125.94 --> 5126.20] Of -[5126.20 --> 5126.40] This -[5126.40 --> 5126.82] Story -[5126.82 --> 5127.04] Is -[5127.04 --> 5127.18] That -[5127.18 --> 5127.98] Eventually -[5127.98 --> 5128.70] Right -[5128.70 --> 5129.28] Eventually -[5129.28 --> 5129.58] A -[5129.58 --> 5129.88] Perfect -[5129.88 --> 5130.20] Man -[5130.20 --> 5130.54] Would -[5130.54 --> 5130.90] Come -[5130.90 --> 5131.78] Who -[5131.78 --> 5132.20] Shows -[5132.20 --> 5132.40] Us -[5132.40 --> 5132.78] Just -[5132.78 --> 5133.14] How -[5133.14 --> 5133.90] Trustworthy -[5133.90 --> 5134.46] He -[5134.46 --> 5134.84] Is -[5134.84 --> 5135.84] And -[5135.84 --> 5136.06] Just -[5136.06 --> 5136.32] Like -[5136.32 --> 5136.70] Judah -[5136.70 --> 5137.16] Offered -[5137.16 --> 5137.52] Himself -[5137.52 --> 5137.88] As -[5137.88 --> 5138.02] A -[5138.02 --> 5138.76] Substitutionary -[5138.76 --> 5139.30] Sacrifice -[5139.30 --> 5139.48] For -[5139.48 --> 5139.64] His -[5139.64 --> 5139.88] Brother -[5139.88 --> 5140.26] Benjamin -[5140.26 --> 5141.10] Jesus -[5141.10 --> 5142.02] The -[5142.02 --> 5142.26] True -[5142.26 --> 5142.42] And -[5142.42 --> 5142.68] Better -[5142.68 --> 5143.02] Judah -[5143.02 --> 5143.20] The -[5143.20 --> 5143.36] True -[5143.36 --> 5143.50] And -[5143.50 --> 5143.68] Better -[5143.68 --> 5144.28] Joseph -[5144.28 --> 5144.78] Jesus -[5144.78 --> 5145.24] Comes -[5145.24 --> 5145.44] And -[5145.44 --> 5145.84] Offers -[5145.84 --> 5146.30] Himself -[5146.30 --> 5146.68] As -[5146.68 --> 5146.84] A -[5146.84 --> 5147.62] Substitutionary -[5147.62 --> 5148.16] Sacrifice -[5148.16 --> 5148.36] For -[5148.36 --> 5148.66] You -[5148.66 --> 5149.14] And -[5149.14 --> 5149.30] For -[5149.30 --> 5149.54] Me -[5149.54 --> 5149.76] And -[5149.76 --> 5149.92] For -[5149.92 --> 5150.24] All -[5150.24 --> 5150.44] Who -[5150.44 --> 5150.72] Would -[5150.72 --> 5150.94] By -[5150.94 --> 5151.30] Grace -[5151.30 --> 5151.54] Through -[5151.54 --> 5151.82] Faith -[5151.82 --> 5152.46] Believe -[5152.46 --> 5152.90] In -[5152.90 --> 5153.06] Him -[5153.06 --> 5153.54] This -[5153.54 --> 5153.98] Is -[5153.98 --> 5154.24] What -[5154.24 --> 5154.42] We -[5154.42 --> 5155.02] Proclaim -[5155.02 --> 5155.64] Week -[5155.64 --> 5155.88] In -[5155.88 --> 5156.08] And -[5156.08 --> 5156.30] Week -[5156.30 --> 5156.52] Out -[5156.52 --> 5156.82] This -[5156.82 --> 5157.02] Is -[5157.02 --> 5157.16] What -[5157.16 --> 5157.30] We -[5157.30 --> 5157.68] Read -[5157.68 --> 5157.88] In -[5157.88 --> 5158.02] The -[5158.02 --> 5158.44] Story -[5158.44 --> 5158.98] Of -[5158.98 --> 5159.50] God's -[5159.50 --> 5160.20] Redemption -[5160.20 --> 5160.72] In -[5160.72 --> 5161.18] The -[5161.18 --> 5161.56] Scriptures -[5161.56 --> 5161.90] That -[5161.90 --> 5162.60] Jesus -[5162.60 --> 5163.24] Christ -[5163.24 --> 5163.90] Lived -[5163.90 --> 5164.12] The -[5164.12 --> 5164.38] Life -[5164.38 --> 5164.58] I -[5164.58 --> 5164.80] Should -[5164.80 --> 5164.94] Have -[5164.94 --> 5165.24] Lived -[5165.24 --> 5165.62] And -[5165.62 --> 5166.02] Died -[5166.02 --> 5166.20] The -[5166.20 --> 5166.46] Death -[5172.68 --> 5172.74] And -[5172.74 --> 5173.06] Now -[5173.06 --> 5173.32] By -[5173.32 --> 5173.70] Grace -[5173.70 --> 5173.96] As -[5173.96 --> 5174.16] We -[5174.16 --> 5174.60] Believe -[5174.60 --> 5174.80] In -[5174.80 --> 5175.08] Him -[5175.08 --> 5175.58] We -[5175.58 --> 5176.32] Live -[5176.32 --> 5177.10] Lives -[5177.10 --> 5177.58] Of -[5177.58 --> 5178.46] Trust -[5178.46 --> 5182.74] Just -[5182.74 --> 5183.12] Like -[5183.12 --> 5184.26] At -[5184.26 --> 5184.38] The -[5184.38 --> 5184.76] End -[5184.76 --> 5185.40] When -[5185.40 --> 5185.90] Joseph's -[5185.90 --> 5186.20] Brothers -[5186.20 --> 5186.86] Come -[5186.86 --> 5187.14] And -[5187.14 --> 5187.34] Say -[5187.34 --> 5187.54] To -[5187.54 --> 5187.72] Him -[5187.72 --> 5188.24] Now -[5188.24 --> 5188.74] Please -[5188.74 --> 5189.20] Forgive -[5189.20 --> 5189.74] The -[5189.74 --> 5190.18] Sins -[5190.18 --> 5190.68] Of -[5190.68 --> 5190.84] The -[5190.84 --> 5191.24] Servant -[5191.24 --> 5191.44] Of -[5191.44 --> 5191.58] Your -[5191.58 --> 5192.00] God -[5192.00 --> 5192.66] Of -[5192.66 --> 5193.00] God -[5193.00 --> 5193.28] Your -[5193.28 --> 5193.70] Father -[5193.70 --> 5194.92] Jesus -[5194.92 --> 5195.40] On -[5195.40 --> 5195.52] The -[5195.52 --> 5195.96] Cross -[5195.96 --> 5196.36] Would -[5196.36 --> 5196.68] Say -[5196.68 --> 5197.24] Father -[5197.24 --> 5198.32] Forgive -[5198.32 --> 5198.62] Them -[5198.62 --> 5199.74] For -[5199.74 --> 5199.88] They -[5199.88 --> 5200.06] Know -[5200.06 --> 5200.28] Not -[5200.28 --> 5200.46] What -[5200.46 --> 5200.62] They -[5200.62 --> 5200.88] Do -[5200.88 --> 5202.68] So -[5202.68 --> 5202.86] As -[5202.86 --> 5203.02] We -[5203.02 --> 5203.16] Have -[5203.16 --> 5203.34] Been -[5203.34 --> 5203.78] Wrestling -[5203.78 --> 5204.08] And -[5204.08 --> 5204.48] Wondering -[5204.48 --> 5204.92] Together -[5204.92 --> 5205.22] About -[5205.22 --> 5205.60] How -[5205.60 --> 5205.92] Do -[5205.92 --> 5206.30] We -[5206.30 --> 5207.80] How -[5207.80 --> 5208.00] Do -[5208.00 --> 5208.20] We -[5208.20 --> 5209.16] Survive -[5209.16 --> 5209.40] In -[5209.40 --> 5209.54] The -[5209.54 --> 5209.92] Midst -[5209.92 --> 5210.38] Of -[5210.38 --> 5211.16] Suffering -[5211.16 --> 5211.42] How -[5211.42 --> 5211.62] Do -[5211.62 --> 5211.88] We -[5211.88 --> 5213.94] Stand -[5213.94 --> 5214.40] In -[5214.40 --> 5214.58] The -[5214.58 --> 5214.90] Midst -[5214.90 --> 5215.24] Of -[5215.24 --> 5215.96] Trauma -[5215.96 --> 5217.44] We -[5217.44 --> 5217.58] Have -[5217.58 --> 5217.70] Been -[5217.70 --> 5217.98] Looking -[5217.98 --> 5218.28] For -[5218.28 --> 5218.62] God -[5218.62 --> 5218.96] Hints -[5218.96 --> 5219.18] In -[5219.18 --> 5219.34] The -[5219.34 --> 5219.70] Story -[5219.70 --> 5220.38] Of -[5220.38 --> 5220.84] Joseph -[5220.84 --> 5222.40] And -[5222.40 --> 5222.50] The -[5222.50 --> 5222.70] God -[5222.70 --> 5222.92] Hint -[5222.92 --> 5223.10] That -[5223.10 --> 5223.22] I -[5223.22 --> 5223.40] Want -[5223.40 --> 5223.60] Us -[5223.60 --> 5223.76] To -[5223.76 --> 5224.06] See -[5224.06 --> 5224.52] Today -[5224.52 --> 5224.90] Comes -[5224.90 --> 5225.14] From -[5225.14 --> 5225.30] The -[5225.30 --> 5225.70] Phrase -[5225.70 --> 5226.22] Of -[5226.22 --> 5226.36] The -[5226.36 --> 5226.70] Brothers -[5226.70 --> 5227.30] Now -[5227.30 --> 5227.86] Please -[5227.86 --> 5228.72] Forgive -[5228.72 --> 5230.80] Please -[5230.80 --> 5232.06] Forgive -[5232.06 --> 5234.90] Trusting -[5234.90 --> 5235.18] In -[5235.18 --> 5235.44] The -[5235.44 --> 5236.14] Sovereignty -[5236.14 --> 5237.08] Of -[5237.08 --> 5237.42] God -[5237.42 --> 5238.08] Trusting -[5238.08 --> 5238.22] In -[5238.22 --> 5238.36] The -[5238.36 --> 5238.84] Character -[5238.84 --> 5239.42] Of -[5239.42 --> 5239.62] God -[5239.62 --> 5240.32] Trusting -[5240.32 --> 5240.62] In -[5240.62 --> 5241.00] Who -[5241.00 --> 5241.70] God -[5241.70 --> 5242.20] Is -[5242.20 --> 5242.62] The -[5242.62 --> 5242.90] Way -[5242.90 --> 5243.20] To -[5243.20 --> 5244.12] Survive -[5244.12 --> 5244.98] Suffering -[5244.98 --> 5245.52] And -[5245.52 --> 5246.00] Trial -[5246.00 --> 5246.26] And -[5246.26 --> 5246.42] To -[5246.42 --> 5246.96] Even -[5246.96 --> 5247.62] Thrive -[5247.62 --> 5247.84] On -[5247.84 --> 5247.98] The -[5247.98 --> 5248.18] Other -[5248.18 --> 5248.52] Side -[5248.52 --> 5248.64] Of -[5248.64 --> 5248.78] It -[5248.78 --> 5249.20] Is -[5249.20 --> 5249.40] To -[5249.40 --> 5249.88] Find -[5249.88 --> 5250.38] And -[5250.38 --> 5250.80] Give -[5250.80 --> 5252.02] Forgiveness -[5252.02 --> 5256.48] Now -[5256.48 --> 5256.60] I'm -[5256.60 --> 5256.96] Mindful -[5256.96 --> 5257.16] That -[5257.16 --> 5257.32] As -[5257.32 --> 5257.48] We -[5257.48 --> 5257.70] Sit -[5257.70 --> 5257.96] Here -[5257.96 --> 5258.34] This -[5258.34 --> 5258.62] Morning -[5258.62 --> 5260.88] Some -[5260.88 --> 5261.10] Of -[5261.10 --> 5261.46] Us -[5261.46 --> 5262.38] Need -[5262.38 --> 5262.64] To -[5262.64 --> 5263.24] Find -[5263.24 --> 5264.88] Forgiveness -[5264.88 --> 5267.00] That -[5267.00 --> 5267.16] Is -[5267.16 --> 5267.36] Some -[5267.36 --> 5267.50] Of -[5267.50 --> 5267.76] Us -[5267.76 --> 5267.98] Here -[5267.98 --> 5268.22] This -[5268.22 --> 5268.52] Morning -[5268.52 --> 5268.96] Need -[5268.96 --> 5269.14] To -[5269.14 --> 5269.38] Go -[5269.38 --> 5269.56] And -[5269.56 --> 5269.80] Get -[5269.80 --> 5270.02] It -[5270.02 --> 5271.02] Right -[5271.02 --> 5271.16] We -[5271.16 --> 5271.30] Need -[5271.30 --> 5271.44] To -[5271.44 --> 5271.70] Go -[5271.70 --> 5271.92] To -[5271.92 --> 5272.32] God -[5272.32 --> 5272.54] And -[5272.54 --> 5272.78] Say -[5272.78 --> 5273.24] God -[5273.24 --> 5273.84] Forgive -[5273.84 --> 5274.28] Me -[5274.28 --> 5275.62] Or -[5275.62 --> 5275.74] We -[5275.74 --> 5275.86] Need -[5275.86 --> 5275.96] To -[5275.96 --> 5276.06] Go -[5276.06 --> 5276.18] To -[5276.18 --> 5276.36] Another -[5276.36 --> 5276.78] Person -[5276.78 --> 5277.56] And -[5277.56 --> 5277.84] Say -[5277.84 --> 5278.54] Please -[5278.54 --> 5279.66] Forgive -[5279.66 --> 5280.06] Me -[5280.06 --> 5281.84] Some -[5281.84 --> 5281.96] Of -[5281.96 --> 5282.10] Us -[5282.10 --> 5282.24] Have -[5282.24 --> 5282.40] Been -[5282.40 --> 5283.16] Terrified -[5283.16 --> 5283.64] About -[5283.64 --> 5283.90] What -[5283.90 --> 5284.14] That -[5284.14 --> 5284.36] Might -[5284.36 --> 5284.68] Be -[5284.68 --> 5284.90] And -[5284.90 --> 5285.06] What -[5285.06 --> 5285.24] That -[5285.24 --> 5285.44] Might -[5285.44 --> 5285.72] Look -[5285.72 --> 5285.98] Like -[5285.98 --> 5286.12] And -[5286.12 --> 5286.34] How -[5286.34 --> 5286.56] That -[5286.56 --> 5286.78] Might -[5286.78 --> 5287.30] Happen -[5287.30 --> 5289.48] And -[5289.48 --> 5289.60] To -[5289.60 --> 5289.88] That -[5289.88 --> 5290.24] We -[5290.24 --> 5291.08] Lift -[5291.08 --> 5291.40] Up -[5291.40 --> 5291.64] The -[5291.64 --> 5292.06] Picture -[5292.06 --> 5292.58] Of -[5292.58 --> 5292.96] Our -[5292.96 --> 5293.66] Big -[5293.66 --> 5294.48] Big -[5294.48 --> 5295.40] God -[5295.40 --> 5297.68] We -[5297.68 --> 5297.84] Say -[5297.84 --> 5298.28] Trust -[5298.28 --> 5299.58] In -[5299.58 --> 5299.80] Him -[5299.80 --> 5302.86] I'm -[5302.86 --> 5303.08] Also -[5303.08 --> 5303.62] Mindful -[5303.62 --> 5304.14] That -[5304.14 --> 5304.26] As -[5304.26 --> 5304.40] We -[5304.40 --> 5304.58] Sit -[5304.58 --> 5304.74] Here -[5304.74 --> 5304.94] This -[5304.94 --> 5305.22] Morning -[5305.22 --> 5306.04] Some -[5306.04 --> 5306.16] Of -[5306.16 --> 5306.34] Us -[5306.34 --> 5306.64] Need -[5306.64 --> 5306.88] To -[5306.88 --> 5307.46] Give -[5307.46 --> 5308.58] Forgiveness -[5308.58 --> 5309.64] That -[5309.64 --> 5309.76] Is -[5309.76 --> 5309.94] Some -[5309.94 --> 5310.04] Of -[5310.04 --> 5310.14] Us -[5310.14 --> 5310.28] Need -[5310.28 --> 5310.40] To -[5310.40 --> 5310.72] Offer -[5310.72 --> 5310.94] It -[5310.94 --> 5311.80] That -[5311.80 --> 5311.96] We've -[5311.96 --> 5312.06] Been -[5312.06 --> 5312.40] Hanging -[5312.40 --> 5312.90] On -[5312.90 --> 5313.42] To -[5313.42 --> 5313.68] A -[5313.68 --> 5313.98] Wrong -[5313.98 --> 5314.18] Or -[5314.18 --> 5314.28] An -[5314.28 --> 5314.68] Offence -[5314.68 --> 5315.10] Or -[5315.10 --> 5315.24] A -[5315.24 --> 5315.56] Trauma -[5315.56 --> 5316.20] Such -[5316.20 --> 5316.48] That -[5316.48 --> 5316.80] It -[5316.80 --> 5318.02] Cannot -[5318.02 --> 5318.38] Be -[5318.38 --> 5318.82] Or -[5318.82 --> 5318.96] It -[5318.96 --> 5319.24] Feels -[5319.24 --> 5319.50] Like -[5319.50 --> 5319.74] We -[5319.74 --> 5320.18] Cannot -[5320.18 --> 5320.52] Be -[5320.52 --> 5320.82] Who -[5320.82 --> 5321.04] We -[5321.04 --> 5321.52] Are -[5321.52 --> 5322.18] Without -[5322.18 --> 5322.50] It -[5322.50 --> 5323.12] It -[5323.12 --> 5323.86] Defines -[5323.86 --> 5324.42] Us -[5324.42 --> 5325.40] Forever -[5325.40 --> 5327.56] And -[5327.56 --> 5327.66] To -[5327.66 --> 5327.88] You -[5327.88 --> 5328.06] I -[5328.06 --> 5328.20] Want -[5328.20 --> 5328.30] To -[5328.30 --> 5328.52] Say -[5328.52 --> 5329.06] Trust -[5329.06 --> 5330.08] In -[5330.08 --> 5330.24] Your -[5330.24 --> 5330.58] Big -[5330.58 --> 5331.38] Big -[5331.38 --> 5332.36] God -[5332.36 --> 5335.28] Offer -[5335.28 --> 5336.98] Forgiveness -[5336.98 --> 5338.96] Offer -[5338.96 --> 5339.90] Forgiveness -[5339.90 --> 5340.30] And -[5340.30 --> 5340.32] And -[5340.32 --> 5343.06] And -[5343.06 --> 5343.22] Let -[5343.22 --> 5343.76] God -[5343.76 --> 5345.22] Be -[5345.22 --> 5345.66] God -[5345.66 --> 5347.30] Now -[5347.30 --> 5347.42] In -[5347.42 --> 5347.96] Reality -[5347.96 --> 5349.52] All -[5349.52 --> 5349.66] Of -[5349.66 --> 5349.84] Us -[5349.84 --> 5350.12] Here -[5350.12 --> 5350.36] Are -[5350.36 --> 5350.52] In -[5350.52 --> 5350.74] Some -[5350.74 --> 5350.96] Ways -[5350.96 --> 5351.30] Both -[5351.30 --> 5351.58] Of -[5351.58 --> 5351.82] Those -[5351.82 --> 5352.06] In -[5352.06 --> 5352.50] Need -[5352.50 --> 5353.14] Of -[5353.14 --> 5353.38] Both -[5353.38 --> 5353.54] Of -[5353.54 --> 5353.76] Those -[5353.76 --> 5353.96] To -[5353.96 --> 5354.78] Find -[5354.78 --> 5355.14] And -[5355.14 --> 5355.32] To -[5355.32 --> 5355.70] Give -[5355.70 --> 5356.70] Forgiveness -[5356.70 --> 5359.16] But -[5359.16 --> 5359.30] What -[5359.30 --> 5359.38] I -[5359.38 --> 5359.60] Want -[5359.60 --> 5359.82] Us -[5359.82 --> 5360.00] To -[5360.00 --> 5360.22] Be -[5360.22 --> 5360.90] Abundantly -[5360.90 --> 5361.26] Clear -[5361.26 --> 5361.58] On -[5361.58 --> 5361.88] This -[5361.88 --> 5362.18] Morning -[5362.18 --> 5362.44] And -[5362.44 --> 5362.68] This -[5362.68 --> 5363.02] Is -[5363.02 --> 5363.68] Especially -[5363.68 --> 5364.68] For -[5364.68 --> 5365.08] Those -[5365.08 --> 5365.28] Of -[5365.28 --> 5365.54] You -[5365.54 --> 5365.92] Who -[5365.92 --> 5366.44] Profess -[5366.44 --> 5367.00] To -[5367.00 --> 5367.44] Be -[5367.44 --> 5368.36] Christian -[5368.36 --> 5369.80] That -[5369.80 --> 5370.02] Is -[5370.02 --> 5370.26] If -[5370.26 --> 5370.42] At -[5370.42 --> 5370.66] Some -[5370.66 --> 5370.94] Point -[5370.94 --> 5371.18] In -[5371.18 --> 5371.36] Your -[5371.36 --> 5371.62] Life -[5371.62 --> 5371.78] You -[5371.78 --> 5371.90] Have -[5371.90 --> 5372.08] Done -[5372.08 --> 5372.22] What -[5372.22 --> 5372.34] We -[5372.34 --> 5372.52] Saw -[5372.52 --> 5372.72] This -[5372.72 --> 5373.00] Morning -[5373.00 --> 5373.30] People -[5373.30 --> 5373.60] Stand -[5373.60 --> 5373.78] Up -[5373.78 --> 5373.94] And -[5373.94 --> 5374.12] Say -[5374.12 --> 5374.50] This -[5374.50 --> 5374.96] I -[5374.96 --> 5375.76] Believe -[5375.76 --> 5377.04] That -[5377.04 --> 5377.16] I -[5377.16 --> 5377.36] Have -[5377.36 --> 5377.74] Been -[5377.74 --> 5378.32] Forgiven -[5378.32 --> 5378.58] By -[5378.58 --> 5378.72] The -[5378.72 --> 5379.00] Grace -[5379.00 --> 5379.24] Of -[5379.24 --> 5379.54] God -[5379.54 --> 5380.36] This -[5380.36 --> 5380.68] I -[5380.68 --> 5381.10] Believe -[5381.10 --> 5381.44] That -[5381.44 --> 5381.78] Jesus -[5381.78 --> 5382.32] Christ -[5382.32 --> 5382.62] Is -[5382.62 --> 5382.88] My -[5382.88 --> 5383.26] Savior -[5383.26 --> 5383.94] And -[5383.94 --> 5384.16] My -[5384.16 --> 5384.50] Lord -[5384.50 --> 5384.84] This -[5384.84 --> 5385.16] I -[5385.16 --> 5385.58] Believe -[5385.58 --> 5385.86] And -[5385.86 --> 5386.04] So -[5386.04 --> 5386.32] Want -[5386.32 --> 5386.52] To -[5386.52 --> 5386.82] Live -[5386.82 --> 5387.22] In -[5387.22 --> 5387.36] The -[5387.36 --> 5387.84] Trust -[5387.84 --> 5388.54] Of -[5388.54 --> 5388.92] Who -[5388.92 --> 5389.52] He -[5389.52 --> 5390.24] Is -[5390.24 --> 5392.52] If -[5392.52 --> 5392.66] You -[5392.66 --> 5392.86] Have -[5392.86 --> 5393.06] Made -[5393.06 --> 5393.30] That -[5393.30 --> 5393.92] Profession -[5393.92 --> 5394.22] This -[5394.22 --> 5394.56] Is -[5394.56 --> 5395.20] For -[5395.20 --> 5395.46] You -[5395.46 --> 5398.80] There's -[5398.80 --> 5398.90] A -[5398.90 --> 5399.14] Picture -[5399.14 --> 5399.42] Of -[5399.42 --> 5399.88] What -[5399.88 --> 5400.00] I'm -[5400.00 --> 5400.20] Getting -[5400.20 --> 5400.44] At -[5400.44 --> 5400.56] That -[5400.56 --> 5400.78] Comes -[5400.78 --> 5400.96] To -[5400.96 --> 5401.20] Us -[5401.20 --> 5402.10] From -[5402.10 --> 5403.04] Jonathan -[5403.04 --> 5403.50] Edwards -[5403.50 --> 5404.14] Jonathan -[5404.14 --> 5404.48] Edwards -[5404.48 --> 5404.72] Is -[5404.72 --> 5404.88] An -[5404.88 --> 5405.56] 18th -[5405.56 --> 5406.04] Century -[5406.04 --> 5406.64] Preacher -[5406.64 --> 5406.96] And -[5406.96 --> 5407.80] Revivalist -[5407.80 --> 5408.04] In -[5408.04 --> 5408.18] The -[5408.18 --> 5408.60] U.S. -[5409.06 --> 5409.70] And -[5409.70 --> 5409.84] He -[5409.84 --> 5410.16] Writes -[5410.16 --> 5410.34] In -[5410.34 --> 5410.48] This -[5410.48 --> 5411.00] Beautiful -[5411.00 --> 5411.34] And -[5411.34 --> 5412.06] Compelling -[5412.06 --> 5413.80] Opus -[5413.80 --> 5414.96] Religious -[5414.96 --> 5415.76] Affections -[5415.76 --> 5416.14] He -[5416.14 --> 5416.38] Says -[5416.38 --> 5416.58] The -[5416.58 --> 5416.94] Following -[5416.94 --> 5417.98] He -[5417.98 --> 5418.18] Says -[5418.18 --> 5418.90] Gracious -[5418.90 --> 5419.76] Affections -[5419.76 --> 5420.48] Turn -[5420.48 --> 5420.70] A -[5420.70 --> 5420.98] Heart -[5420.98 --> 5421.18] Of -[5421.18 --> 5421.72] Stone -[5421.72 --> 5422.24] More -[5422.24 --> 5422.46] And -[5422.46 --> 5422.84] More -[5422.84 --> 5423.28] Into -[5423.28 --> 5423.62] A -[5423.62 --> 5423.86] Heart -[5423.86 --> 5424.14] Of -[5424.14 --> 5424.60] Flesh -[5424.60 --> 5425.96] Gracious -[5425.96 --> 5426.70] Affections -[5426.70 --> 5427.18] Flow -[5427.18 --> 5427.52] Out -[5427.52 --> 5427.62] Of -[5427.62 --> 5427.78] A -[5427.78 --> 5428.36] Contrite -[5428.36 --> 5428.72] Heart -[5428.72 --> 5429.22] A -[5429.22 --> 5429.64] Bruised -[5429.64 --> 5429.94] Heart -[5429.94 --> 5430.18] A -[5430.18 --> 5430.76] Bruised -[5430.76 --> 5431.54] Bruised -[5431.54 --> 5431.74] And -[5431.74 --> 5432.12] Broken -[5432.12 --> 5432.52] With -[5432.52 --> 5433.06] Godly -[5433.06 --> 5433.74] Sorrow -[5433.74 --> 5436.96] That's -[5436.96 --> 5437.22] You -[5437.22 --> 5438.16] Bruised -[5438.16 --> 5438.38] And -[5438.38 --> 5438.68] Broken -[5438.68 --> 5439.44] With -[5439.44 --> 5439.94] Godly -[5439.94 --> 5440.80] Sorrow -[5440.80 --> 5442.36] And -[5442.36 --> 5442.52] You -[5442.52 --> 5442.92] Profess -[5442.92 --> 5443.12] To -[5443.12 --> 5443.26] Be -[5443.26 --> 5443.66] Christian -[5443.66 --> 5445.32] Gracious -[5445.32 --> 5446.44] Affections -[5446.44 --> 5447.32] Will -[5447.32 --> 5447.68] Flow -[5447.68 --> 5447.94] Out -[5447.94 --> 5448.14] Of -[5448.14 --> 5448.32] You -[5448.32 --> 5448.58] As -[5448.58 --> 5448.74] Your -[5448.74 --> 5449.02] Heart -[5449.02 --> 5449.22] Of -[5449.22 --> 5449.70] Stone -[5449.70 --> 5450.20] Is -[5450.20 --> 5450.78] Turned -[5450.78 --> 5451.38] Into -[5451.38 --> 5452.00] A -[5452.00 --> 5452.24] Heart -[5452.24 --> 5452.44] Of -[5452.44 --> 5452.82] Flesh -[5452.82 --> 5454.16] Right -[5454.16 --> 5454.64] Gracious -[5454.64 --> 5455.30] Affections -[5455.30 --> 5455.58] Flow -[5455.58 --> 5455.80] Out -[5455.80 --> 5455.96] Of -[5455.96 --> 5456.20] You -[5456.20 --> 5456.76] As -[5456.76 --> 5457.12] Jesus -[5457.12 --> 5457.60] Christ -[5457.60 --> 5458.00] Looks -[5458.00 --> 5458.34] Over -[5458.34 --> 5458.62] You -[5458.62 --> 5458.84] And -[5458.84 --> 5459.06] Says -[5459.06 --> 5459.46] Father -[5459.46 --> 5460.08] Forgive -[5460.08 --> 5460.50] Them -[5460.50 --> 5460.70] For -[5460.70 --> 5460.84] They -[5460.84 --> 5461.04] Know -[5461.04 --> 5461.34] Not -[5461.34 --> 5461.76] What -[5461.76 --> 5461.92] They -[5461.92 --> 5462.04] Are -[5462.04 --> 5462.32] Doing -[5462.32 --> 5464.12] As -[5464.12 --> 5464.26] He -[5464.26 --> 5464.72] Calls -[5464.72 --> 5465.00] You -[5465.00 --> 5465.40] As -[5465.40 --> 5465.68] His -[5465.68 --> 5466.26] Own -[5466.26 --> 5466.88] And -[5466.88 --> 5467.26] By -[5467.26 --> 5467.66] His -[5467.66 --> 5468.22] Grace -[5468.22 --> 5469.34] Transforms -[5469.34 --> 5469.58] You -[5469.58 --> 5470.06] From -[5470.06 --> 5470.48] Death -[5470.48 --> 5471.12] Into -[5471.12 --> 5471.84] Life -[5471.84 --> 5472.08] By -[5472.08 --> 5472.28] His -[5472.28 --> 5472.64] Grace -[5472.64 --> 5473.04] Takes -[5473.04 --> 5473.24] You -[5473.24 --> 5473.46] From -[5473.46 --> 5474.16] Darkness -[5474.16 --> 5474.76] Into -[5474.76 --> 5475.46] His -[5475.46 --> 5475.90] Light -[5475.90 --> 5476.16] These -[5476.16 --> 5476.78] Gracious -[5476.78 --> 5477.74] Affections -[5477.74 --> 5478.64] Ooze -[5478.64 --> 5478.96] Out -[5478.96 --> 5479.16] Of -[5479.16 --> 5479.34] You -[5479.34 --> 5479.80] Because -[5479.80 --> 5480.06] They -[5480.06 --> 5480.32] Have -[5480.32 --> 5480.58] Been -[5480.58 --> 5481.32] Poured -[5481.32 --> 5482.04] Into -[5482.04 --> 5482.34] You -[5482.34 --> 5482.64] By -[5482.64 --> 5482.94] Our -[5482.94 --> 5483.30] Big -[5483.30 --> 5483.90] Big -[5483.90 --> 5484.52] God -[5484.52 --> 5485.94] And -[5485.94 --> 5486.24] Edwards -[5486.24 --> 5486.42] Will -[5486.42 --> 5486.58] Go -[5486.58 --> 5486.80] On -[5486.80 --> 5486.92] And -[5486.92 --> 5487.02] He -[5487.02 --> 5487.14] Will -[5487.14 --> 5487.66] Define -[5487.66 --> 5487.96] These -[5487.96 --> 5488.40] Gracious -[5488.40 --> 5489.36] As -[5489.36 --> 5489.86] Love -[5489.86 --> 5490.32] And -[5490.32 --> 5490.80] Joy -[5490.80 --> 5491.26] And -[5491.26 --> 5491.88] Gratitude -[5491.88 --> 5492.12] As -[5492.12 --> 5492.26] A -[5492.26 --> 5492.72] Desire -[5492.72 --> 5492.98] For -[5492.98 --> 5493.54] Holiness -[5493.54 --> 5494.42] Humility -[5494.42 --> 5495.24] Mercy -[5495.24 --> 5496.04] Zeal -[5496.04 --> 5496.76] Hope -[5496.76 --> 5497.48] Sorrow -[5497.48 --> 5497.90] Over -[5497.90 --> 5498.38] Sin -[5498.38 --> 5498.92] And -[5498.92 --> 5499.44] Peace -[5499.44 --> 5500.92] And -[5500.92 --> 5501.04] Then -[5501.04 --> 5501.46] Edwards -[5501.46 --> 5502.56] Concludes -[5502.56 --> 5502.70] He -[5502.70 --> 5503.04] Says -[5503.04 --> 5504.68] Christian -[5504.68 --> 5505.54] Practice -[5505.54 --> 5506.26] Is -[5506.26 --> 5506.42] The -[5506.42 --> 5506.72] Most -[5506.72 --> 5507.28] Proper -[5507.28 --> 5508.00] Evidence -[5508.00 --> 5508.60] Of -[5508.60 --> 5508.76] The -[5508.76 --> 5509.30] Gracious -[5509.30 --> 5510.18] Sincerity -[5510.18 --> 5510.64] Of -[5510.64 --> 5511.44] Professors -[5511.44 --> 5512.32] To -[5512.32 --> 5513.02] Themselves -[5513.02 --> 5513.46] And -[5513.46 --> 5513.68] To -[5513.68 --> 5514.06] Others -[5514.06 --> 5516.34] That's -[5516.34 --> 5516.46] Just -[5516.46 --> 5516.60] A -[5516.60 --> 5516.90] Beautiful -[5516.90 --> 5517.18] Way -[5517.18 --> 5517.34] Of -[5517.34 --> 5517.68] Saying -[5517.68 --> 5518.20] What -[5518.20 --> 5518.38] You -[5518.38 --> 5518.72] Say -[5518.72 --> 5518.96] You -[5518.96 --> 5519.36] Believe -[5519.36 --> 5520.12] Is -[5520.12 --> 5520.40] Made -[5520.40 --> 5520.90] Evident -[5520.90 --> 5521.20] Is -[5521.20 --> 5521.66] Shown -[5521.66 --> 5521.86] To -[5521.86 --> 5522.06] Be -[5522.06 --> 5522.66] Sincere -[5522.66 --> 5523.76] In -[5523.76 --> 5523.98] What -[5523.98 --> 5524.16] You -[5524.16 --> 5524.72] Practice -[5524.72 --> 5526.58] Right -[5526.58 --> 5526.88] Edwards -[5526.88 --> 5527.10] Goes -[5527.10 --> 5527.28] On -[5527.28 --> 5527.38] He -[5527.38 --> 5527.54] Says -[5527.54 --> 5527.68] It -[5527.68 --> 5527.78] Is -[5527.78 --> 5527.94] The -[5527.94 --> 5528.40] Sign -[5528.40 --> 5528.60] Of -[5528.60 --> 5529.22] Signs -[5529.22 --> 5529.32] And -[5529.32 --> 5529.82] Evidence -[5529.82 --> 5530.04] Of -[5530.04 --> 5530.52] Evidences -[5530.52 --> 5531.18] That -[5531.18 --> 5531.40] Which -[5531.40 --> 5531.98] Seals -[5531.98 --> 5532.26] And -[5532.26 --> 5532.96] Crowns -[5532.96 --> 5533.54] All -[5533.54 --> 5533.92] Other -[5533.92 --> 5534.98] Signs -[5534.98 --> 5536.32] He'll -[5536.32 --> 5536.48] Go -[5536.48 --> 5536.70] On -[5536.70 --> 5536.86] To -[5536.86 --> 5537.10] Use -[5537.10 --> 5537.38] This -[5537.38 --> 5538.14] Illustration -[5538.14 --> 5538.78] He'll -[5538.78 --> 5539.00] Say -[5539.00 --> 5539.44] There's -[5539.44 --> 5539.68] All -[5539.68 --> 5540.04] Sorts -[5540.04 --> 5540.22] Of -[5540.22 --> 5540.58] Ways -[5540.58 --> 5540.80] That -[5540.80 --> 5540.92] You -[5540.92 --> 5541.08] Can -[5541.08 --> 5541.40] Tell -[5541.40 --> 5541.66] A -[5541.66 --> 5542.06] Tree -[5542.06 --> 5542.68] Is -[5542.68 --> 5542.86] A -[5542.86 --> 5543.06] Fig -[5543.06 --> 5543.38] Tree -[5543.38 --> 5544.48] But -[5544.48 --> 5544.66] The -[5544.66 --> 5545.20] Highest -[5545.20 --> 5545.42] And -[5545.42 --> 5545.70] Most -[5545.70 --> 5546.20] Proper -[5546.20 --> 5546.74] Way -[5546.74 --> 5546.92] That -[5546.92 --> 5547.04] You -[5547.04 --> 5547.20] Can -[5547.20 --> 5547.50] Tell -[5547.50 --> 5547.70] A -[5547.70 --> 5547.94] Tree -[5547.94 --> 5548.20] Is -[5548.20 --> 5548.32] A -[5548.32 --> 5548.48] Fig -[5548.48 --> 5548.74] Tree -[5548.74 --> 5549.22] Is -[5549.22 --> 5549.42] That -[5549.42 --> 5549.58] It -[5549.58 --> 5549.98] Bears -[5549.98 --> 5550.48] Figs -[5550.48 --> 5551.80] That -[5551.80 --> 5551.98] Has -[5551.98 --> 5552.68] Figs -[5552.68 --> 5553.42] On -[5553.42 --> 5553.62] It -[5553.62 --> 5555.98] When -[5555.98 --> 5556.16] We -[5556.16 --> 5556.48] Talk -[5556.48 --> 5556.74] About -[5556.74 --> 5557.52] Forgiveness -[5557.52 --> 5560.00] How -[5560.00 --> 5560.26] Is -[5560.26 --> 5560.42] It -[5560.42 --> 5560.62] That -[5560.62 --> 5560.98] You -[5560.98 --> 5561.40] Can -[5561.40 --> 5561.92] Know -[5561.92 --> 5562.56] That -[5562.56 --> 5562.90] You -[5562.90 --> 5563.80] Are -[5563.80 --> 5564.96] Impossibly -[5564.96 --> 5565.74] Forgiven -[5565.74 --> 5569.66] Are -[5569.66 --> 5569.76] You -[5569.76 --> 5570.10] Connecting -[5570.10 --> 5570.22] The -[5570.22 --> 5570.46] Dots -[5570.46 --> 5573.92] One -[5573.92 --> 5574.04] Of -[5574.04 --> 5574.16] The -[5574.16 --> 5574.38] Ways -[5574.38 --> 5574.60] That -[5574.60 --> 5574.78] You -[5574.78 --> 5575.00] Can -[5575.00 --> 5575.28] Know -[5575.28 --> 5575.54] That -[5575.54 --> 5575.78] You -[5575.78 --> 5575.98] Are -[5575.98 --> 5576.70] Impossibly -[5576.70 --> 5577.18] Forgiven -[5577.18 --> 5578.70] Is -[5578.70 --> 5578.88] By -[5578.88 --> 5579.32] Forgiving -[5579.32 --> 5580.12] The -[5580.12 --> 5580.62] Impossible -[5580.62 --> 5587.84] Now -[5587.84 --> 5589.36] Don't -[5589.36 --> 5589.52] Hear -[5589.52 --> 5589.68] What -[5589.68 --> 5589.82] I'm -[5589.82 --> 5590.00] Not -[5590.00 --> 5590.30] Saying -[5590.30 --> 5595.82] Because -[5595.82 --> 5596.16] In -[5596.16 --> 5596.50] This -[5596.50 --> 5597.54] Conversation -[5597.54 --> 5597.82] About -[5597.82 --> 5598.18] Giving -[5598.18 --> 5598.56] And -[5598.56 --> 5599.22] Receiving -[5599.22 --> 5600.14] Forgiveness -[5600.14 --> 5601.96] We -[5601.96 --> 5602.26] Can -[5602.26 --> 5602.72] Not -[5602.72 --> 5603.60] Minimize -[5603.60 --> 5604.24] The -[5604.24 --> 5604.96] Importance -[5604.96 --> 5605.16] Of -[5605.16 --> 5605.32] The -[5605.32 --> 5606.08] Impact -[5606.08 --> 5606.56] Of -[5606.56 --> 5606.70] The -[5606.70 --> 5607.10] Trauma -[5607.10 --> 5607.48] Or -[5607.48 --> 5607.62] The -[5607.62 --> 5608.00] Trial -[5608.00 --> 5608.32] Or -[5608.32 --> 5608.46] The -[5608.46 --> 5608.88] Struggle -[5608.88 --> 5609.28] That -[5609.28 --> 5609.44] You -[5609.44 --> 5609.58] Have -[5609.58 --> 5609.84] Faced -[5609.84 --> 5609.98] Or -[5609.98 --> 5610.10] That -[5610.10 --> 5610.22] You -[5610.22 --> 5610.36] Have -[5610.36 --> 5610.74] Caused -[5610.74 --> 5610.98] To -[5610.98 --> 5611.16] Someone -[5611.16 --> 5611.34] Else -[5611.34 --> 5611.48] Or -[5611.48 --> 5611.58] That -[5611.58 --> 5612.16] Someone -[5612.16 --> 5612.36] Else -[5612.36 --> 5612.52] Has -[5612.52 --> 5612.80] Caused -[5612.80 --> 5612.98] To -[5612.98 --> 5613.18] You -[5613.18 --> 5613.98] Right -[5613.98 --> 5614.16] That -[5614.16 --> 5614.96] Impact -[5614.96 --> 5615.92] Matters -[5615.92 --> 5616.10] And -[5616.10 --> 5616.34] For -[5616.34 --> 5616.82] You -[5616.82 --> 5617.10] To -[5617.10 --> 5617.82] Feel -[5617.82 --> 5619.00] Genuinely -[5619.00 --> 5619.86] Forgiven -[5619.86 --> 5620.10] Or -[5620.10 --> 5620.28] To -[5620.28 --> 5620.58] Feel -[5620.58 --> 5620.80] Like -[5620.80 --> 5620.94] You -[5620.94 --> 5621.14] Can -[5621.14 --> 5621.92] Meaningfully -[5621.92 --> 5622.46] Offer -[5622.46 --> 5622.92] Forgiveness -[5622.92 --> 5623.60] We -[5623.60 --> 5623.80] Need -[5623.80 --> 5623.90] To -[5623.90 --> 5624.00] Be -[5624.00 --> 5624.18] To -[5624.18 --> 5624.86] Communicate -[5624.86 --> 5625.20] The -[5625.20 --> 5625.88] Impact -[5625.88 --> 5626.14] Of -[5626.14 --> 5626.26] What -[5626.26 --> 5626.42] Has -[5626.42 --> 5626.74] Taken -[5626.74 --> 5627.22] Place -[5627.22 --> 5630.46] So -[5630.46 --> 5630.64] That -[5630.64 --> 5631.04] Is -[5631.04 --> 5632.70] Foundational -[5632.70 --> 5633.32] To -[5633.32 --> 5633.50] This -[5633.50 --> 5634.02] Experience -[5634.02 --> 5634.64] But -[5634.64 --> 5634.98] Also -[5634.98 --> 5635.32] Don't -[5635.32 --> 5635.46] Hear -[5635.46 --> 5635.60] What -[5635.60 --> 5635.70] I'm -[5635.70 --> 5635.88] Not -[5635.88 --> 5636.20] Saying -[5636.20 --> 5636.58] Because -[5636.58 --> 5637.44] Offering -[5637.44 --> 5638.10] Forgiveness -[5638.10 --> 5638.50] Is -[5638.50 --> 5638.78] Not -[5638.78 --> 5639.04] The -[5639.04 --> 5639.42] Same -[5639.42 --> 5640.02] As -[5640.02 --> 5640.62] Erasing -[5640.62 --> 5641.18] Or -[5641.18 --> 5641.54] Forget -[5641.54 --> 5642.36] Right -[5642.36 --> 5642.78] Sometimes -[5642.78 --> 5643.26] Maybe -[5643.26 --> 5643.48] You -[5643.48 --> 5643.68] Grew -[5643.68 --> 5643.84] Up -[5643.84 --> 5643.96] With -[5643.96 --> 5644.06] The -[5644.06 --> 5644.30] Idea -[5644.30 --> 5644.62] Forgive -[5644.62 --> 5644.94] And -[5644.94 --> 5645.30] Forget -[5645.30 --> 5648.20] Politely -[5648.20 --> 5649.96] Hogwash -[5649.96 --> 5651.40] There -[5651.40 --> 5651.54] Are -[5651.54 --> 5651.80] Some -[5651.80 --> 5652.22] Things -[5652.22 --> 5652.80] You -[5652.80 --> 5653.54] Cannot -[5653.54 --> 5653.94] Forget -[5653.94 --> 5655.08] There -[5655.08 --> 5655.22] Are -[5655.22 --> 5655.44] Some -[5655.44 --> 5655.76] Things -[5655.76 --> 5655.92] That -[5655.92 --> 5656.08] You're -[5656.08 --> 5656.18] Going -[5656.18 --> 5656.26] To -[5656.26 --> 5656.58] Happen -[5656.58 --> 5656.74] To -[5656.74 --> 5657.02] You -[5657.02 --> 5657.36] Or -[5657.36 --> 5657.52] In -[5657.52 --> 5657.64] Your -[5657.64 --> 5657.88] Life -[5657.88 --> 5658.00] That -[5658.00 --> 5658.06] Are -[5658.06 --> 5658.18] Just -[5658.18 --> 5658.30] Going -[5658.30 --> 5658.38] To -[5658.38 --> 5658.84] Live -[5658.84 --> 5659.14] In -[5659.14 --> 5659.32] Your -[5659.32 --> 5659.80] Bones -[5659.80 --> 5660.24] Your -[5660.24 --> 5660.54] Body -[5660.54 --> 5660.76] Will -[5660.76 --> 5661.02] Tell -[5661.02 --> 5661.32] You -[5661.32 --> 5661.74] Even -[5661.74 --> 5661.90] If -[5661.90 --> 5662.04] Your -[5662.04 --> 5662.34] Mind -[5662.34 --> 5662.54] Has -[5662.54 --> 5662.70] Not -[5662.70 --> 5662.86] Yet -[5662.86 --> 5663.42] Grasped -[5663.42 --> 5665.02] That's -[5665.02 --> 5665.30] Not -[5665.30 --> 5665.52] What -[5665.52 --> 5665.66] We're -[5665.66 --> 5665.98] Talking -[5665.98 --> 5666.34] About -[5666.34 --> 5667.20] Here -[5667.20 --> 5670.46] Instead -[5670.46 --> 5671.96] Instead -[5671.96 --> 5672.98] Forgiveness -[5672.98 --> 5673.96] Is -[5673.96 --> 5674.42] Giving -[5674.42 --> 5675.04] The -[5675.04 --> 5675.38] Other -[5675.38 --> 5675.98] Person -[5675.98 --> 5676.52] To -[5676.52 --> 5676.92] God -[5676.92 --> 5678.70] Right -[5678.70 --> 5679.12] Forgiveness -[5679.12 --> 5679.58] Is -[5679.58 --> 5679.90] Saying -[5679.90 --> 5680.18] God -[5680.18 --> 5680.42] You -[5680.42 --> 5680.66] Are -[5680.66 --> 5680.90] A -[5680.90 --> 5681.10] Big -[5681.10 --> 5681.46] God -[5681.46 --> 5682.06] Bigger -[5682.06 --> 5682.26] Than -[5682.26 --> 5682.78] All -[5682.78 --> 5682.98] The -[5682.98 --> 5683.24] Things -[5683.24 --> 5683.38] That -[5683.38 --> 5683.48] Have -[5683.48 --> 5683.72] Happened -[5683.72 --> 5683.90] To -[5683.90 --> 5684.10] Me -[5684.10 --> 5685.00] And -[5685.00 --> 5685.12] I -[5686.08 --> 5686.38] You -[5686.38 --> 5688.16] Right -[5688.16 --> 5688.30] Your -[5688.30 --> 5688.76] Forgiveness -[5688.76 --> 5689.02] Of -[5689.02 --> 5689.22] Another -[5689.22 --> 5689.58] Person -[5689.58 --> 5689.78] Has -[5689.78 --> 5690.06] Actually -[5690.06 --> 5690.28] Very -[5690.28 --> 5690.46] Little -[5690.46 --> 5690.64] To -[5690.64 --> 5690.74] Do -[5690.74 --> 5690.86] With -[5690.86 --> 5690.96] That -[5690.96 --> 5691.14] Other -[5691.14 --> 5691.54] Person -[5691.54 --> 5692.60] And -[5692.60 --> 5692.86] Everything -[5692.86 --> 5693.10] To -[5693.10 --> 5693.36] Do -[5693.36 --> 5694.06] With -[5694.06 --> 5694.40] God -[5694.40 --> 5697.52] As -[5697.52 --> 5697.70] Long -[5697.70 --> 5697.84] As -[5697.84 --> 5697.98] You -[5697.98 --> 5698.36] Hold -[5698.36 --> 5699.26] On -[5699.26 --> 5699.50] To -[5699.50 --> 5699.84] That -[5699.84 --> 5701.12] Trauma -[5701.12 --> 5701.56] And -[5701.56 --> 5702.26] That -[5702.26 --> 5703.70] Situation -[5703.70 --> 5704.04] As -[5704.04 --> 5704.16] Long -[5704.16 --> 5704.26] As -[5704.26 --> 5704.38] You -[5704.38 --> 5704.66] Hold -[5704.66 --> 5704.86] That -[5704.86 --> 5705.30] Close -[5705.30 --> 5705.60] It -[5705.60 --> 5706.18] Stays -[5706.18 --> 5706.46] In -[5706.46 --> 5707.20] Power -[5707.20 --> 5709.38] Forgiveness -[5709.38 --> 5710.26] Is -[5710.26 --> 5710.50] Letting -[5710.50 --> 5710.68] The -[5710.68 --> 5710.96] Power -[5710.96 --> 5711.16] Of -[5711.16 --> 5711.58] God -[5711.58 --> 5712.78] Come -[5712.78 --> 5713.02] In -[5713.02 --> 5715.36] Jesus -[5715.36 --> 5715.72] Taught -[5715.72 --> 5715.92] His -[5715.92 --> 5716.42] Disciples -[5716.42 --> 5716.66] To -[5716.66 --> 5716.98] Pray -[5716.98 --> 5717.78] Forgive -[5717.78 --> 5718.30] Us -[5718.30 --> 5718.68] Our -[5718.68 --> 5719.22] Sins -[5719.22 --> 5719.54] As -[5719.54 --> 5719.82] We -[5719.82 --> 5720.28] Forgive -[5720.28 --> 5720.62] Those -[5720.62 --> 5720.84] Who -[5720.84 --> 5721.14] Sin -[5721.14 --> 5721.90] Against -[5721.90 --> 5722.34] Us -[5722.34 --> 5724.16] This -[5724.16 --> 5724.26] Is -[5724.26 --> 5724.36] A -[5724.36 --> 5724.62] Hard -[5724.62 --> 5724.94] Word -[5724.94 --> 5725.16] For -[5725.16 --> 5725.38] Us -[5725.38 --> 5725.60] Because -[5725.60 --> 5725.76] It -[5725.76 --> 5725.98] Means -[5725.98 --> 5726.18] There -[5726.18 --> 5726.36] Is -[5726.36 --> 5726.56] A -[5726.56 --> 5727.12] Line -[5727.12 --> 5727.76] Between -[5727.76 --> 5728.04] The -[5728.04 --> 5728.32] Two -[5728.32 --> 5729.80] Right -[5729.80 --> 5730.02] Which -[5730.02 --> 5730.56] Means -[5730.56 --> 5731.00] Right -[5731.00 --> 5731.20] That -[5731.20 --> 5732.22] If -[5732.22 --> 5732.76] Your -[5732.76 --> 5733.32] Being -[5733.32 --> 5734.06] Forgiven -[5734.06 --> 5734.68] Is -[5734.68 --> 5735.40] Possible -[5735.40 --> 5736.26] And -[5736.26 --> 5736.38] It -[5736.38 --> 5736.70] Is -[5736.70 --> 5738.38] Then -[5738.38 --> 5738.62] Your -[5738.62 --> 5739.24] Forgiving -[5739.24 --> 5740.12] Is -[5740.12 --> 5740.60] Also -[5740.60 --> 5741.78] Possible -[5741.78 --> 5746.28] Jesus -[5746.28 --> 5746.50] Has -[5746.50 --> 5746.76] Spoken -[5746.76 --> 5746.92] To -[5746.92 --> 5747.06] The -[5747.06 --> 5747.38] Church -[5747.38 --> 5747.78] Through -[5747.78 --> 5747.92] The -[5747.92 --> 5748.30] Apostle -[5748.30 --> 5748.64] Paul -[5748.64 --> 5749.14] And -[5749.14 --> 5749.26] He -[5749.26 --> 5749.88] Instructs -[5749.88 --> 5750.18] Us -[5750.18 --> 5750.50] To -[5750.50 --> 5751.30] Be -[5751.30 --> 5751.90] Kind -[5751.90 --> 5752.24] And -[5752.24 --> 5753.12] Compassionate -[5753.12 --> 5753.34] To -[5753.34 --> 5753.52] One -[5753.52 --> 5753.84] Another -[5753.84 --> 5755.22] Forgiving -[5755.22 --> 5755.54] Each -[5755.54 --> 5755.78] Other -[5755.78 --> 5756.20] Just -[5756.20 --> 5756.46] As -[5756.46 --> 5756.62] In -[5756.62 --> 5757.06] Christ -[5757.06 --> 5757.82] God -[5757.82 --> 5758.60] Forgave -[5758.60 --> 5759.36] You -[5759.36 --> 5763.12] Here -[5763.12 --> 5763.60] Is -[5763.60 --> 5764.02] Our -[5764.02 --> 5765.04] Profession -[5765.04 --> 5767.12] God -[5767.12 --> 5767.90] Is -[5767.90 --> 5768.22] A -[5768.22 --> 5768.64] Big -[5768.64 --> 5769.64] Big -[5769.64 --> 5770.60] God -[5770.60 --> 5777.26] And -[5777.26 --> 5777.46] Out -[5777.46 --> 5777.62] Of -[5777.62 --> 5778.10] His -[5778.10 --> 5780.72] Deep -[5780.72 --> 5782.08] Love -[5782.08 --> 5783.02] And -[5783.02 --> 5783.44] Grace -[5783.44 --> 5785.10] Out -[5785.10 --> 5785.22] Of -[5785.22 --> 5785.40] His -[5785.40 --> 5786.02] Character -[5786.02 --> 5786.72] Of -[5786.72 --> 5787.30] Trust -[5787.30 --> 5788.22] And -[5788.22 --> 5788.88] Mercy -[5788.88 --> 5790.36] We -[5790.36 --> 5790.98] Can -[5790.98 --> 5791.64] Come -[5791.64 --> 5792.50] Both -[5792.50 --> 5792.84] In -[5792.84 --> 5793.68] Confession -[5793.68 --> 5793.98] To -[5793.98 --> 5794.68] Receive -[5794.68 --> 5795.42] Forgiveness -[5795.42 --> 5796.04] And -[5796.04 --> 5796.40] In -[5796.40 --> 5796.92] Grace -[5796.92 --> 5797.56] To -[5797.56 --> 5798.08] Offer -[5798.08 --> 5798.90] Forgiveness -[5798.90 --> 5802.32] And -[5802.32 --> 5802.48] As -[5802.48 --> 5802.74] We -[5802.74 --> 5803.86] End -[5803.86 --> 5805.62] I -[5805.62 --> 5805.74] Want -[5805.74 --> 5805.84] To -[5805.84 --> 5806.08] Share -[5806.08 --> 5806.30] With -[5806.30 --> 5806.62] You -[5806.62 --> 5807.38] These -[5807.38 --> 5808.02] Words -[5808.02 --> 5808.94] Of -[5808.94 --> 5809.34] Hope -[5809.34 --> 5810.32] And -[5810.32 --> 5810.94] Assurance -[5810.94 --> 5813.38] From -[5813.38 --> 5813.76] First -[5813.76 --> 5814.28] John -[5814.28 --> 5816.48] One -[5816.48 --> 5819.82] If -[5819.82 --> 5820.00] We -[5820.00 --> 5820.32] Claim -[5820.32 --> 5820.50] To -[5820.50 --> 5820.66] Be -[5820.66 --> 5820.96] Without -[5820.96 --> 5821.32] Sin -[5821.32 --> 5822.08] We -[5822.08 --> 5822.48] Deceive -[5822.48 --> 5823.00] Ourselves -[5823.00 --> 5823.18] And -[5823.18 --> 5823.30] The -[5823.30 --> 5823.58] Truth -[5823.58 --> 5823.84] Is -[5823.84 --> 5824.08] Not -[5824.08 --> 5824.30] In -[5824.30 --> 5824.68] Us -[5824.68 --> 5826.22] Point -[5826.22 --> 5826.50] Here -[5826.50 --> 5826.84] Come -[5826.84 --> 5827.36] Honestly -[5827.36 --> 5827.72] To -[5827.72 --> 5827.88] The -[5827.88 --> 5828.12] Lord -[5828.12 --> 5829.40] And -[5829.40 --> 5829.54] If -[5829.54 --> 5829.72] We -[5829.72 --> 5830.26] Confess -[5830.26 --> 5830.58] Our -[5830.58 --> 5831.00] Sins -[5831.00 --> 5831.48] He -[5831.48 --> 5832.06] Is -[5832.06 --> 5832.80] Faithful -[5832.80 --> 5833.38] And -[5833.38 --> 5833.86] Just -[5833.86 --> 5834.14] And -[5834.14 --> 5834.32] Will -[5834.32 --> 5834.66] Forgive -[5834.66 --> 5834.96] Us -[5834.96 --> 5835.18] Our -[5835.18 --> 5835.52] Sins -[5835.52 --> 5835.96] And -[5835.96 --> 5836.50] Purify -[5836.50 --> 5836.90] Us -[5836.90 --> 5837.12] From -[5837.12 --> 5837.48] All -[5837.48 --> 5838.46] Unrighteousness -[5838.46 --> 5842.20] This -[5842.20 --> 5842.56] Is -[5842.56 --> 5842.82] The -[5842.82 --> 5843.22] Mercy -[5843.22 --> 5844.14] Of -[5844.14 --> 5844.70] Our -[5844.70 --> 5845.58] God -[5845.58 --> 5846.78] If -[5846.78 --> 5847.04] We -[5847.04 --> 5847.82] Confess -[5847.82 --> 5848.54] He -[5848.54 --> 5848.96] Is -[5848.96 --> 5849.54] Faithful -[5849.54 --> 5849.80] And -[5849.80 --> 5850.14] Just -[5850.14 --> 5850.60] And -[5850.60 --> 5850.78] Will -[5850.78 --> 5851.22] Forgive -[5851.22 --> 5851.64] Us -[5851.64 --> 5852.30] Our -[5852.30 --> 5853.06] Sins -[5853.06 --> 5853.32] And -[5853.32 --> 5853.60] As -[5853.60 --> 5854.02] He -[5854.02 --> 5854.76] Has -[5854.76 --> 5855.48] Forgiven -[5855.48 --> 5856.48] Us -[5856.48 --> 5857.16] I -[5857.16 --> 5857.56] Pray -[5857.56 --> 5858.08] Today -[5858.08 --> 5858.92] That -[5858.92 --> 5859.28] You -[5859.28 --> 5860.10] Might -[5860.10 --> 5860.64] Forgive -[5860.64 --> 5862.06] Others -[5862.06 --> 5863.06] Amen -[5863.06 --> 5864.56] Let's -[5864.56 --> 5864.78] Pray -[5864.78 --> 5867.40] Lord -[5867.40 --> 5868.02] Our -[5868.02 --> 5869.00] God -[5869.00 --> 5870.80] Move -[5870.80 --> 5871.30] Among -[5871.30 --> 5871.74] Us -[5871.74 --> 5872.20] Today -[5872.20 --> 5872.54] To -[5872.54 --> 5873.48] Experience -[5873.48 --> 5873.82] Maybe -[5873.82 --> 5874.10] For -[5874.10 --> 5874.26] The -[5874.26 --> 5874.56] First -[5874.56 --> 5874.92] Time -[5874.92 --> 5877.70] Maybe -[5877.70 --> 5877.94] For -[5877.94 --> 5878.06] The -[5878.06 --> 5878.46] Hundredth -[5878.46 --> 5878.70] Time -[5878.70 --> 5880.62] Your -[5880.62 --> 5881.46] Forgiving -[5881.46 --> 5882.48] Love -[5882.48 --> 5883.14] Your -[5883.14 --> 5883.62] Forgiving -[5883.62 --> 5884.48] Mercy -[5884.48 --> 5884.76] Your -[5884.76 --> 5885.20] Forgiving -[5885.20 --> 5885.98] Grace -[5885.98 --> 5888.12] And -[5888.12 --> 5888.30] As -[5888.30 --> 5888.48] You -[5888.48 --> 5888.76] Have -[5888.76 --> 5889.34] Forgiven -[5889.34 --> 5889.84] Us -[5889.84 --> 5890.40] What -[5890.40 --> 5890.56] We -[5890.56 --> 5890.86] Once -[5890.86 --> 5891.18] Thought -[5891.18 --> 5891.86] Impossible -[5891.86 --> 5893.16] Help -[5893.16 --> 5893.54] Us -[5893.54 --> 5893.84] To -[5893.84 --> 5894.24] Also -[5894.24 --> 5894.72] Forgive -[5894.72 --> 5895.92] What -[5895.92 --> 5896.08] We -[5896.08 --> 5896.50] Currently -[5896.50 --> 5896.94] Think -[5896.94 --> 5897.98] Impossible -[5897.98 --> 5900.58] May -[5900.58 --> 5900.82] We -[5900.82 --> 5901.14] Be -[5901.14 --> 5901.44] A -[5901.44 --> 5901.76] People -[5901.76 --> 5902.16] Who -[5902.16 --> 5902.98] Model -[5902.98 --> 5903.42] What -[5903.42 --> 5903.66] You -[5903.66 --> 5903.96] Have -[5903.96 --> 5904.54] Offered -[5904.54 --> 5904.86] To -[5904.86 --> 5905.32] Us -[5905.32 --> 5905.68] In -[5905.68 --> 5906.10] Grace -[5906.10 --> 5907.64] And -[5907.64 --> 5907.88] So -[5907.88 --> 5908.64] Sustain -[5908.64 --> 5909.18] Us -[5909.18 --> 5909.48] In -[5909.48 --> 5909.72] Your -[5909.72 --> 5910.16] Spirit -[5910.16 --> 5912.02] And -[5912.02 --> 5912.18] God -[5912.18 --> 5912.32] I -[5912.32 --> 5912.60] Pray -[5912.60 --> 5912.88] That -[5912.88 --> 5913.36] As -[5913.36 --> 5913.54] We -[5913.54 --> 5913.74] Have -[5913.74 --> 5914.46] Professed -[5914.46 --> 5914.72] Our -[5914.72 --> 5915.16] Faith -[5915.16 --> 5915.44] As -[5915.44 --> 5915.58] We -[5915.58 --> 5915.74] Have -[5915.74 --> 5917.02] Encouraged -[5917.02 --> 5917.34] And -[5917.34 --> 5917.60] Been -[5917.60 --> 5918.34] Encouraged -[5918.34 --> 5918.88] That -[5918.88 --> 5919.12] We -[5919.12 --> 5919.42] Would -[5919.42 --> 5919.82] Also -[5919.82 --> 5920.14] Be -[5920.14 --> 5920.42] A -[5920.42 --> 5920.86] Place -[5920.86 --> 5921.20] That -[5921.20 --> 5921.44] Is -[5921.44 --> 5923.86] Receiving -[5923.86 --> 5924.38] And -[5924.38 --> 5924.66] A -[5924.66 --> 5925.00] Place -[5925.00 --> 5925.30] That -[5925.30 --> 5925.62] Is -[5925.62 --> 5926.86] Safe -[5926.86 --> 5927.26] And -[5927.26 --> 5928.10] Trustworthy -[5928.10 --> 5928.80] As -[5928.80 --> 5929.00] We -[5929.00 --> 5929.42] Come -[5929.42 --> 5930.36] To -[5930.36 --> 5930.60] You -[5930.60 --> 5933.24] And -[5933.24 --> 5933.46] So -[5933.46 --> 5933.78] Give -[5933.78 --> 5934.18] Us -[5934.18 --> 5934.48] The -[5934.48 --> 5935.00] Courage -[5935.00 --> 5935.16] And -[5935.16 --> 5935.28] The -[5935.28 --> 5935.74] Bravery -[5935.74 --> 5937.80] To -[5937.80 --> 5938.18] Give -[5938.18 --> 5939.04] And -[5939.04 --> 5939.52] Seek -[5939.52 --> 5941.00] Forgiveness -[5941.00 --> 5942.32] In -[5942.32 --> 5942.60] Jesus -[5942.60 --> 5942.98] Name -[5942.98 --> 5943.18] We -[5943.18 --> 5943.50] Pray -[5943.50 --> 5944.96] Amen -[5944.96 --> 5946.66] Amen -[5946.66 --> 5946.68] Amen -[5973.50 --> 5974.78] Ö -[5974.78 --> 5974.96] � -[5977.20 --> 5979.04] You -[5979.04 --> 5979.08] You -[5979.08 --> 5979.66] May -[5979.66 --> 5980.48] happens -[5980.48 --> 5980.96] Tamb -[5980.96 --> 5981.96] Eh -[5981.96 --> 5982.92] Between -[5982.92 --> 5983.68] Us -[5983.68 --> 5985.26] You -[5985.26 --> 5986.24] книぽ -[5986.24 --> 5986.26] What -[5986.26 --> 5986.74] Or -[5986.74 --> 5987.14] Do -[5987.14 --> 5988.14] Bee -[5988.14 --> 5988.34] Bee -[5988.68 --> 5989.38] Am -[5989.38 --> 5989.88] sono -[5989.88 --> 5990.96] Tim -[5990.96 --> 5992.54] Ad -[5992.54 --> 5994.00] I -[5994.00 --> 5995.04] Grace -[5995.04 --> 5997.00] O -[5997.00 --> 5997.02] W -[5997.02 --> 5997.46] Che -[5997.46 --> 5998.02] rum -[5998.02 --> 5999.92] of -[5999.92 --> 6000.16] God -[6000.16 --> 6005.20] through the darkness -[6005.20 --> 6009.04] your loving kindness -[6009.04 --> 6011.76] or through the shadows -[6011.76 --> 6015.04] of my soul -[6015.04 --> 6018.64] the work is finished -[6018.64 --> 6021.20] the end is written -[6021.20 --> 6024.32] Jesus Christ -[6024.32 --> 6027.52] my living hope -[6027.52 --> 6033.80] who could imagine -[6033.80 --> 6037.20] so great a mercy -[6037.20 --> 6040.96] what heart could add on -[6040.96 --> 6043.76] such boundless grace -[6043.76 --> 6047.04] the God of ages -[6047.04 --> 6049.76] step down from glory -[6049.76 --> 6052.64] to bear my sin -[6052.64 --> 6056.04] and bear my shame -[6056.04 --> 6058.80] the cross has spoken -[6058.80 --> 6061.94] I am forgiven -[6061.94 --> 6068.60] the King of kings calls me his own -[6068.60 --> 6071.38] beautiful Savior -[6071.38 --> 6074.46] I'm yours forever -[6074.46 --> 6077.46] Jesus Christ -[6077.46 --> 6080.46] my living hope -[6080.46 --> 6083.46] hallelujah -[6083.46 --> 6084.46] hallelujah -[6084.46 --> 6087.92] praise the one who set me free -[6087.92 --> 6089.46] hallelujah -[6089.46 --> 6093.90] death has lost its grip on me -[6093.90 --> 6096.92] live and walk in every chain -[6096.92 --> 6099.96] there's salvation in your name -[6099.96 --> 6101.96] Jesus Christ -[6101.96 --> 6104.96] my living hope -[6104.96 --> 6105.96] Lord -[6105.96 --> 6111.24] then came the morning -[6111.24 --> 6114.64] that sealed the promise -[6114.64 --> 6117.52] your very body -[6117.52 --> 6120.60] began to breathe -[6120.60 --> 6123.36] out of the silence -[6123.36 --> 6126.70] the roaring lion -[6126.70 --> 6129.34] declare the grave -[6129.34 --> 6132.52] has no flame on me -[6132.52 --> 6137.52] Jesus yours is a victory -[6137.52 --> 6153.42] hallelujah -[6153.42 --> 6159.18] claim -[6159.18 --> 6186.46] yours is -[6189.18 --> 6204.82] Hallelujah, praise the one who set me free. Hallelujah, death has lost his fear for me. You have hope in every day. There's salvation in your name. -[6204.82 --> 6221.70] Jesus Christ, my living hope. Jesus Christ, my living hope. Oh God, you are my living hope. -[6221.70 --> 6223.70] Amen. -[6251.70 --> 6262.90] I want to congratulate, welcome, invite those who have stood in front of us this morning and offer them a word of encouragement as well. Receive the blessing of our God. -[6264.94 --> 6277.86] God, go before you to lead you. God, go behind you to protect you. God, go beneath you to support you. God, go beside you to befriend you. Do not be afraid. -[6277.86 --> 6288.06] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Amen. -[6307.86 --> 6337.84] God, go before you to pray. -[6337.86 --> 6367.84] God, go before you to pray. -[6367.86 --> 6369.86] Give us love andabo Fen sai. -[6371.14 --> 6380.48] God, go before you may followed God, love and 엄fest by gay pon tum tum tum tum tum tum tum tum tum tum tum las aorn tUM$ 0. -[6381.36 --> 6387.64] lot above us raise the angels to zorKEY teck SUBUM זה b Shyart他们ה的 Bareny Die twentyAM Degen cliff Buffum party l他们ā 앞에 bikanë称hip otоссóol a Schult بن意� GEND ADDR ele y SUNG -[6387.64 --> 6389.64] and the great son of man -[6389.64 --> 6393.64] from every drug and drug and patient -[6393.64 --> 6401.64] will join in the song of the Lamb -[6401.64 --> 6409.64] Sing aloud for the time of rejoicing is needed -[6409.64 --> 6419.64] The risen King, our crew, listen to -[6419.64 --> 6427.64] The wedding feast to come is now here again -[6427.64 --> 6437.64] And now your voice proclaim the coming hour -[6437.64 --> 6441.64] We will dance on the streets that are old -[6441.64 --> 6445.64] The glorious pride in the great son of man -[6445.64 --> 6452.64] For every drug and drug and patient will join -[6452.64 --> 6458.64] We will dance on the streets that are old -[6458.64 --> 6462.64] The glorious pride in the great son of man -[6462.64 --> 6468.64] Every drug and tribe and nation will join -[6468.64 --> 6472.64] In the song of the Lamb -[6472.64 --> 6482.64] The Lord told you законч this time -[6482.64 --> 6483.64] It's sättet -[6483.64 --> 6485.64] in mercy -[6485.64 --> 6500.58] There it is. -[6500.58 --> 6501.38] It's always a one. -[6503.88 --> 6504.70] Coming tonight. -[6505.06 --> 6505.86] That a boy. -[6515.64 --> 6545.62] That a boy. -[6545.64 --> 6575.62] That a boy. -[6575.64 --> 6605.62] That a boy. -[6605.62 --> 6607.62] That a boy. -[6607.62 --> 6611.62] That a boy. -[6611.62 --> 6615.62] That a boy. -[6615.62 --> 6627.62] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, November 3, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, November 3, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 106da844c4fe39293b2b9c39d120d1eed053fddf..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, November 3, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,100 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction to worship service and welcome -• Announcements: - + Community Christmas Craft and Bake Sale on Saturday - + Volunteers needed for setup, takedown, and cleanup - + Baking donations needed for a church table -• Women's Ministry event on November 29th -• Mexico mission trip updates: sign-up deadline and revised trip dates (March 15-24) -• Meeting directly after service on November 19 to finalize trip numbers -• Requirement for Safe Ministries training due to added session on November 19 -• Youth Coffee being hosted at John and Fran Skipper's house after worship -• Call to worship from 1 Peter 1, verse 3 to begin morning service -• General announcements and greetings before the start of worship -• Invocation of joy in the Church of Christ -• Praise and worship to God as a Christian's source of strength -• Freedom from slavery to sin, greed, immorality, gluttony, pride, and fear -• Emphasis on being a child of God and heir to His kingdom -• Overcoming fears through faith and love in God -• Personal testimony of experiencing redemption and salvation -• Worship music and prayer -• Donation for Wellspring UBCO Chaplain -• Testimony of personal faith and devotion to God -• Children's worship time and study of the story of Joseph -• Discussion of characteristics associated with Joseph's story -• Call to children to come up front during service -• Discussion about Joseph's life and experiences -• Analogy of an apple to illustrate God's presence in adversity -• Main topic: God helps us forgive those who have hurt us -• Prayer and thanksgiving from Paul, the elder -• Intercessory prayer for various individuals and needs within the church family -• Prayers for individuals and groups in need of healing and strength -• Request for guidance and presence of God's Spirit in leaders and church members -• Call to be Christ's light to the world, especially through special events at Emmanuel Church -• Prayer for volunteers to fill needed spots -• Reflection on baptismal identity as disciples of Christ and calling to reflect Jesus' love to the world -• Discussion of taking on Jesus' yoke in the workplace, which is a symbol of following Christ and being light in a dark world -• Discussing the concept of hard work and doing things the right way -• Comparing drumming to a vocational example of doing things the right way -• Jesus' teaching on true rest and living life as God intended -• The idea that doing things the right way can be difficult but is made easy with God's comfort and equipping -• A reading from Matthew 11:25-16 -• The speaker discusses a passage from Matthew about Jesus' message of rest and burden -• Four questions are raised to reflect on the passage: who is Jesus talking about as wise and learned, who are the little children, what does it mean for Jesus to claim this passage, and how can wearing Jesus' yoke be easy in our lives? -• The context of the immediate passage shows Jesus speaking judgment against unrepentant cities before praising the Father -• Jesus gives thanks that the Father did not reveal the kingdom to the wise and learned, leading to a reflection on who the wise and learned are. -• Jesus' teaching on God's kingdom is not about excluding smart people, but rather about the Father's heart for the lowly and oppressed. -• The biblical theme of humbling the proud and exalting the humble is a common thread throughout both Testaments. -• Jesus is speaking against pride and arrogance, whether it comes from relying on one's own wisdom and strength or assuming that spiritual knowledge makes one privileged. -• Many Christians have historically set up hierarchies of jobs, thinking that only certain roles make someone holier or better. -• Jesus' teaching in this passage is a warning against the Pharisees and religious elites who thought they were superior. -• The pride of being close to God is opposed by God -• All work and vocations can reflect God's goodness and kingdom -• Jesus speaks against pride in his teachings, including the Sermon on the Mount -• Pride is often accompanied by self-importance and feeling superior to others -• Those who feel their spiritual superiority are rebuked by Jesus' Father, but those who humbly acknowledge their sin and need for help find open arms -• The "little children" referred to by Jesus are those who are humble and in need of a Savior, as opposed to the crowd that seeks only what they want to hear from Jesus. -• Jesus teaches about humility and dependence on God -• The kingdom of heaven is revealed to those who are humble and poor in spirit -• Jesus claims to be God, stating that He and the Father are one -• This message challenges the monotheistic Jewish understanding of a single God -• Scripture from both the Old Testament and New Testament supports this concept -• The crowd had the right to stone Jesus if his claim of being the Son of God was not true -• The call to faith is accepting and confessing that Jesus is Lord and Savior -• Believing in Jesus as Lord and Savior has huge implications for one's life, including surrendering one's life to him -• Christians believe that everything rests in Christ's hands -• Paul's letter to the Colossians emphasizes that all things were created through and for Jesus -• Salvation comes through the death and resurrection of Jesus, not by human strength or wisdom -• It is a gift from God, received through faith -• The speaker discusses baptismal identity and salvation as a gift from God -• Paul's writings in Ephesians are referenced, particularly his statement that we are saved through faith -• Jesus' yoke is discussed as being easy and light, but it is acknowledged that following Christ can be challenging -• The answer to how Jesus' yoke is easy is said to be taking on His yoke, rather than trying to strengthen one's own burdens -• The invitation from Jesus is to take on His yoke, which He says will bring ease and lightness, not the person's own efforts or strengths -• Jesus uses a yoke as an image to teach obedience and learning from him -• Obedience to his teachings leads to real rest and Sabbath -• The search for rest is a fundamental human desire, but true rest can only be found through following Jesus -• Jesus invites those who are weary and burdened to put on his yoke and follow him -• He offers refreshment and equipment for carrying future burdens to those who feel guilty and inadequate -• The image of a yoke in Jesus' teaching represents working together with him -• Jesus invites believers to walk with him step by step, leading to real life and flourishing -• Believers are called to take on the yoke of Christ, not the burdens of their workplace -• Even in toxic or broken workplaces, believers can find hope and light through Jesus -• With the Spirit's equipping and presence, believers can be a shining example of God's love in their work environments -• God's sovereignty and sufficiency -• The yoke of discipleship and being a light to the world -• Humility and dependence on God -• The Holy Spirit's guidance and equipping -• Living out one's faith as a disciple of Christ -• Prayer for God's presence, blessing, and mercy -• Encouragement to lay down burdens and shame -• Invitation to come as you are, without condition -• Assurance that heaven can heal all earthly sorrows -• Call to lift up one's face and acknowledge hope -• Declaration of God's love and faithfulness -• Expression of trust in God's guidance and strength -• Celebration of God's goodness and mercy -• Faithfulness through the ages -• Guidance in every moment -• Help coming to a person -• Appreciation for honesty in difficult times -• Repeated expression of gratitude \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, November 3, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, November 3, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f245081cec290de578a7154b87635b685765d626..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, November 3, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1783 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 122.00] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 152.00] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 182.00] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 212.00] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 242.00] Thank you. -[242.00 --> 244.00] Thank you. -[244.00 --> 246.00] Thank you. -[274.00 --> 276.00] Thank you. -[304.64 --> 306.00] Thank you. -[306.00 --> 308.00] Thank you. -[308.00 --> 316.00] Holy, holy is the Lord. -[316.00 --> 323.00] Holy, holy is the Lord. -[323.00 --> 329.00] Holy, holy is the Lord. -[338.00 --> 345.00] Good morning. -[345.00 --> 348.00] Good morning. -[348.00 --> 352.00] I realize everyone's kind of making their way in yet, and that's great. -[352.00 --> 356.00] I want to just take a moment and welcome you to worship here at Emanuel Church. -[356.00 --> 361.00] My name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors here at Emanuel. -[361.00 --> 366.00] And this week, actually, this is the last time you'll see me for the rest of the service. -[366.00 --> 368.00] Well, I'll be sitting right over there, so if you look there, I'll be there. -[368.00 --> 373.00] But we have the privilege this morning of welcoming Jonathan Wang to the pulpit. -[373.00 --> 381.00] He is one of the pastors at Hope Community Church, a sister Christian reform church out in Clayton Heights. -[381.00 --> 387.00] And so we're really privileged to have Jonathan here with us this morning and leading us. -[387.00 --> 390.00] Before we begin our worship together, we've got a bunch of announcements. -[390.00 --> 394.00] And so I'm going to invite Leanne and Brandon to make their way up here -[394.00 --> 397.00] because they're going to have announcements for us. -[397.00 --> 403.00] And as they're making their way up here, let me say one announcement. -[403.00 --> 408.00] This is from my mother, so I'm going to read it to make sure I get it right. -[408.00 --> 415.00] So this week, before the craft and bake sale, where 35 vendors are going to be selling their products -[415.00 --> 420.00] and raising funds for the Mexico mission trip, the refugee fund, and some kitchen updates, -[420.00 --> 425.00] in order to make that day successful, which is on this coming Saturday, they need some help. -[425.00 --> 429.00] And that's going to be helping with setup and takedown. -[429.00 --> 436.00] And so on Wednesday night at 7 p.m., they need a team to take the chairs out of the sanctuary. -[436.00 --> 441.00] And on Saturday at 5.30 p.m., we need a team to put the chairs back. -[441.00 --> 444.00] I'm going to keep doing this. -[444.00 --> 450.00] If you're available for either of those dates or to clean up generally at 4.30 on Saturday, -[450.00 --> 452.00] that would be greatly appreciated. -[452.00 --> 456.00] If you're able to help out, please contact Rob Alkema, who's not here this morning. -[456.00 --> 460.00] But if you need to know details of that, you can just grab me after service. -[460.00 --> 465.00] We are excited to open our doors to the community, and we invite all of you to spread the word -[465.00 --> 467.00] and to be part of this day. -[467.00 --> 474.00] We hope to see you here on Saturday at the Community Christmas Craft and Bake Sale. -[474.00 --> 477.00] I think that's the official title. -[477.00 --> 482.00] And then we're also looking to add some baking to a church table. -[482.00 --> 486.00] And so if you're able to do some baking or provide something in that regard, -[486.00 --> 492.00] please connect with Miriam De Winter or Pastor Kevin, and they'll figure that out together. -[492.00 --> 494.00] I think that's it. -[494.00 --> 495.00] Mom is online. -[495.00 --> 497.00] She can text me if I missed something. -[497.00 --> 499.00] Leanne, why don't we go to you? -[499.00 --> 502.00] So I'm making an announcement for the Women's Ministry. -[502.00 --> 507.00] We're going to be doing our Women's Christmas event, November 29th, here at the church. -[507.00 --> 512.00] The sign-up sheets are linked in the midweek memo, but you can also see myself, -[512.00 --> 517.00] and I'm not sure which other member of the committee, but we'll be at the back table to help if you need sign-up, -[517.00 --> 519.00] just with a good old-fashioned pen and paper. -[519.00 --> 523.00] There are two sign-up sheets, one to attend, and please bring your friends and your neighbours with you. -[523.00 --> 527.00] And there's also a sign-up sheet if you'd like to decorate a table. -[527.00 --> 531.00] Food is really important at these events, so we do ask that you bring a hot food, -[531.00 --> 534.00] dish or dessert to share with the group. -[534.00 --> 537.00] And men, we don't want you to feel left out entirely from the ladies' event. -[537.00 --> 542.00] So there's also a sign-up at the back if you'd like to come at the end of the evening to help us reset the sanctuary. -[542.00 --> 546.00] There may or may not be food left over for you, depending on the ladies. -[546.00 --> 548.00] Thanks. -[548.00 --> 555.00] All right, so we got an announcement for... -[555.00 --> 559.00] She wanted to say it, but... -[559.00 --> 562.00] Mexico, this will be the final announcement for sign-up. -[562.00 --> 564.00] Sign-up is going to be due today. -[564.00 --> 568.00] We have paper copies back there, electronic copies online. -[568.00 --> 571.00] We also have an update in terms of trip dates. -[571.00 --> 574.00] God opened some doors and kind of made the decision for us. -[574.00 --> 580.00] So the trip dates will be March 15 to the 24th, 25th, depending on flight prices. -[580.00 --> 583.00] We will be staying at Connections for the entire time now. -[583.00 --> 586.00] Another youth pastor's mistake opened the doors for us. -[586.00 --> 588.00] So thankfully for that. -[588.00 --> 590.00] Unfortunate for that church, I guess. -[590.00 --> 593.00] But we do have a place to stay now, so those will be the dates. -[593.00 --> 597.00] We are going to also just have a meeting directly after the service. -[597.00 --> 600.00] Let's say like 50 minutes after the service ends or noon or whatever. -[600.00 --> 601.00] Just in the multimedia room. -[601.00 --> 604.00] Just, I would like to get numbers of who's coming on the trip. -[604.00 --> 606.00] I need that finalized today because I've got to book vans. -[606.00 --> 608.00] And I've got to book some other stuff. -[608.00 --> 611.00] So even if you have not filled out the form like you were supposed to... -[611.00 --> 613.00] Oh, good morning. -[613.00 --> 615.00] Just call you out. -[615.00 --> 617.00] Come to that meeting. -[617.00 --> 620.00] That way I can get those finalized numbers and figure that out. -[620.00 --> 623.00] That's adults, youth, anybody who's coming. -[623.00 --> 625.00] Parents, if you want to come just to hear about it too. -[625.00 --> 627.00] We'll just do like a five, ten minute meeting. -[627.00 --> 630.00] Go over the schedule for the rest of the year and what we're kind of doing. -[630.00 --> 631.00] So yeah. -[631.00 --> 633.00] Thank you very much. -[638.00 --> 640.00] Okay. -[640.00 --> 644.00] Also, I want to make this announcement. -[644.00 --> 645.00] And this one's from my wife. -[645.00 --> 648.00] So I'm also going to read it to make sure that I get it correct. -[648.00 --> 655.00] The Safe Ministries team has added a third night for training on Tuesday, November 19. -[655.00 --> 665.00] And so if you haven't completed the Safe Ministries training, the abuse recognition and prevention training, you will hear from Rachel in this coming week to confirm your attendance. -[665.00 --> 672.00] Please note that this training is required for anyone working with vulnerable populations or children under 19. -[672.00 --> 676.00] So this includes worship team members and ushers. -[676.00 --> 683.00] Council members, we will receive a special and separate training sometime in the near-ish future. -[683.00 --> 695.00] And for Safe Ministries team, if you have completed the forms that were handed out to you, please don't forget to return those to the mailbox out by the church office there. -[695.00 --> 704.00] Lastly, after worship this morning is Youth Coffee being hosted at John and Fran Skipper's house. -[704.00 --> 705.00] John and Fran, hands up. -[705.00 --> 709.00] If you have questions on how to get there, you can talk to them or any of the youth leaders have the address. -[709.00 --> 711.00] They can get you there. -[711.00 --> 714.00] I think that's all the announcements. -[714.00 --> 716.00] Ken, am I wrong? -[716.00 --> 718.00] You're all-knowing. -[718.00 --> 722.00] That was an inside joke. -[722.00 --> 723.00] Sorry, that was unfair. -[723.00 --> 729.00] Let's stand up together as we are welcomed by God into worship this morning. -[729.00 --> 739.00] I'm going to extend to you God's greeting and then I invite you to turn to those around you and continue extending that greeting by saying, -[739.00 --> 744.00] May the peace of Christ be with you or the Lord be with you in our worship together. -[744.00 --> 746.00] Receive the greeting of our God. -[746.00 --> 757.00] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, Son, and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[757.00 --> 758.00] Amen. -[769.00 --> 771.00] Please join us for today'sigration. -[771.00 --> 773.00] Good to see you again. -[773.00 --> 774.00] We'reeremying. -[774.00 --> 776.00] What are we bringing? -[781.00 --> 782.00] Congratulations, everybody. -[784.00 --> 785.00] Yeah, . -[785.00 --> 787.00] Rose, Rose, Children, Tarantula, whoasly, Longhift! -[788.00 --> 790.00] Amen. -[790.00 --> 795.00] I know COVID-19 has made youqi and Interestinglyfpsy . -[795.00 --> 801.18] We invite you to worship with us this morning -[801.18 --> 804.34] through our call to worship from 1 Peter 1, verse 3. -[804.96 --> 808.26] Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. -[808.78 --> 811.42] In his great mercy, he has given us new birth -[811.42 --> 813.50] into a living hope through the resurrection -[813.50 --> 815.34] of Jesus Christ from the dead. -[825.00 --> 827.00] Amen. -[835.00 --> 844.38] Come, people of the risen King, who delight to bring Him praise. -[844.66 --> 853.00] Come all into your hearts to sing to the morning star of grace. -[853.00 --> 862.00] From the shifting shadows of the earth, we will lift our eyes to Him. -[863.36 --> 871.00] Where steady arms of mercy reach to never children in. -[873.24 --> 881.00] Rejoice, rejoice, let every tongue rejoice. -[881.00 --> 886.28] One heart, one voice. -[886.56 --> 890.00] O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[890.00 --> 906.00] Come on those who destroy His morning sun and those weeping through the night. -[906.00 --> 916.16] Come on those who tell of battles won and O Rolly in the fight. -[916.16 --> 921.28] For His perfect love will never change. -[921.72 --> 925.16] And His mercies never cease. -[925.16 --> 930.72] But follow us through all our days. -[930.72 --> 934.16] The surge in hope of He. -[934.16 --> 943.72] Rejoice, rejoice, let every tongue rejoice. -[943.72 --> 948.72] One heart, one voice. -[949.28 --> 952.72] O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[952.72 --> 973.72] O Church of Christ, O Church of poor, let every tongue see the blood will grow. -[973.72 --> 979.20] Empty hands find the riches of His grace. -[979.20 --> 984.12] Over all the world His people see, -[984.40 --> 988.44] Shore to shore we hear them call. -[988.84 --> 993.56] The truth that rhymes through every inch, -[993.72 --> 997.64] Our God is all in all. -[999.28 --> 1002.48] Rejoice, rejoice, -[1002.48 --> 1006.48] Let every tongue rejoice, -[1007.48 --> 1011.60] One heart, one voice, -[1012.08 --> 1015.58] O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[1017.32 --> 1020.74] Rejoice, rejoice, -[1021.22 --> 1024.48] Let every tongue rejoice, -[1025.80 --> 1029.48] One heart, one voice, -[1029.48 --> 1033.48] O Church of Christ, rejoice. -[1033.64 --> 1035.34] A Bang &ası Herz, -[1035.34 --> 1037.88] A Bang & Federatic Nationalhym Emiниle, -[1038.16 --> 1038.66] A Bang &ếle Jattformine, -[1038.78 --> 1052.20] A Bang & eloineゆ -[1052.20 --> 1052.70] Think of theurn faith, -[1052.70 --> 1079.62] O God, you are my God, and I will ever praise you. -[1079.62 --> 1089.30] O God, you are my God, and I will ever praise you. -[1089.94 --> 1099.76] I will seek you in the morning, and I will learn to walk in your ways. -[1099.76 --> 1108.76] And step by step you'll lead me, and I will follow you all of my days. -[1109.62 --> 1121.62] O God, you are my God, and I will ever praise you. -[1121.62 --> 1131.00] O God, you are my God, and I will ever praise you. -[1131.62 --> 1140.62] I will seek you in the morning, and I will learn to walk in your ways. -[1140.62 --> 1150.62] And step by step you'll lead me, and I will follow you all of my days. -[1150.62 --> 1180.60] O God, you are my God. -[1180.60 --> 1182.18] What is God's first? -[1182.60 --> 1185.40] Some days it may have been even hard to tell that I'm a Christian. -[1185.40 --> 1190.60] O God, you will hear me today. -[1190.60 --> 1193.54] because he wants you to be assured by his spirit. -[1194.48 --> 1195.28] Hear this truth. -[1196.04 --> 1198.88] You are no longer a slave, but God's child. -[1199.28 --> 1202.22] And since you are his child, God has made you his heir. -[1203.06 --> 1204.86] You are no longer a slave to sin. -[1205.34 --> 1208.42] You are no longer a slave to greed or sexual immorality. -[1209.00 --> 1211.96] You are no longer a slave to gluttony or to pride. -[1212.56 --> 1214.36] You are no longer a slave to peer. -[1214.70 --> 1216.60] You are a child of God. -[1220.60 --> 1250.58] You are no longer a slave to sin. -[1250.60 --> 1258.60] With a melody, you surround me with a song. -[1259.96 --> 1264.60] A deliverance from my enemies. -[1266.00 --> 1270.54] Till all my fears are gone. -[1270.54 --> 1276.54] I am no longer a slave to fear. -[1276.54 --> 1282.98] I am a child of God. -[1282.98 --> 1288.98] I am no longer a slave to fear. -[1288.98 --> 1294.98] I am a child of God. -[1294.98 --> 1300.98] I am no longer a slave to sin. -[1300.98 --> 1302.98] I am no longer a slave to sin. -[1302.98 --> 1304.98] I am no longer a slave to sin. -[1304.98 --> 1306.98] I am no longer a slave to sin. -[1306.98 --> 1308.98] I am no longer a slave to sin. -[1308.98 --> 1310.98] I am no longer a slave to sin. -[1310.98 --> 1316.98] I am no longer a slave to sin. -[1316.98 --> 1318.98] I am no longer a slave to sin. -[1318.98 --> 1320.98] I am no longer a slave to sin. -[1320.98 --> 1321.98] I am no longer a slave to sin. -[1321.98 --> 1328.98] I am no longer a slave to sin. -[1328.98 --> 1330.98] I am no longer a slave to sin. -[1330.98 --> 1344.98] I am a child of God. I'm no longer a slave to fear. -[1344.98 --> 1356.98] I am a child of God. I'm no longer a slave to fear. -[1356.98 --> 1368.98] I am a child of God. I'm no longer a slave to fear. -[1368.98 --> 1374.98] I am a child of God. -[1384.98 --> 1395.98] Swift the sea so I could walk right through it. My fears were drowned in perfect love. -[1395.98 --> 1406.98] You rescued me so I could stand and sing. I am a child of God. -[1407.98 --> 1418.98] You split the sea so I could walk right through it. My fears were drowned in perfect love. -[1418.98 --> 1430.98] You rescued me so I could stand and sing. I am a child of God. I am a child of God. -[1430.98 --> 1442.98] I am a child of God. I am a child of God. -[1442.98 --> 1457.98] I am a child of God. I am a child of God. -[1457.98 --> 1469.98] I am a child of God. -[1469.98 --> 1481.98] I am a child of God. I am a child of God. -[1481.98 --> 1504.04] For the days that God has numbered, I was made to walk with Him. -[1504.04 --> 1513.04] Yet I look for worldly treasure, and forsake the King of kings. -[1513.38 --> 1522.00] But my new soul is my Redeemer, though I'm warm, His love is sure. -[1522.52 --> 1530.92] For Christ has made for every failing, I am His forevermore. -[1534.04 --> 1536.04] Amen. -[1564.04 --> 1594.04] -[1594.04 --> 1624.04] -[1624.04 --> 1632.76] Namaste, I pray that I have learned from His Η scholar in Thine's 1860s. -[1632.76 --> 1636.04] For the days that I have been with him, For the v Lynn's 216-6 Ilsibliano. -[1636.04 --> 1638.04] Amen. -[1638.22 --> 1639.04] Amen. -[1639.04 --> 1641.04] Amen. -[1641.04 --> 1642.04] Amen. -[1642.04 --> 1644.62] Amen. -[1644.62 --> 1651.34] Rejoice now, O my soul. -[1655.92 --> 1660.78] Rejoice now, O my soul. -[1661.24 --> 1665.12] For His love is my reward. -[1665.12 --> 1669.56] Fear is gone and hope is sure. -[1669.84 --> 1673.94] Christ is mine forevermore. -[1673.94 --> 1678.30] Rejoice now, O my soul. -[1678.78 --> 1682.66] For His love is my reward. -[1683.16 --> 1686.74] Fear is gone and hope is sure. -[1687.48 --> 1691.06] Christ is mine forevermore. -[1691.06 --> 1695.86] Rejoice now, O my soul. -[1696.12 --> 1700.06] For His love is my reward. -[1700.06 --> 1704.30] Fear is gone and hope is sure. -[1704.30 --> 1709.30] Christ is mine forevermore. -[1710.64 --> 1715.44] And mine are keys to Zion City. -[1715.90 --> 1719.60] Where beside the King I walk. -[1719.98 --> 1724.16] For there my heart has found its treasure. -[1724.16 --> 1728.16] Christ is mine forevermore. -[1728.16 --> 1733.38] Christ is mine forevermore. -[1733.38 --> 1738.38] Christ is mine forevermore. -[1738.38 --> 1739.98] For of you alone. -[1739.98 --> 1741.90] Lord,roеб... -[1742.08 --> 1742.10] Now... -[1742.52 --> 1742.98] Now... -[1742.98 --> 1744.38] For of years... -[1744.38 --> 1745.10] Lord,ro... -[1745.10 --> 1745.58] Let me go deeper. -[1745.58 --> 1746.22] For ... -[1746.78 --> 1747.48] For of you, O my soul. -[1747.48 --> 1748.30] Now... -[1748.30 --> 1778.28] Thank you. -[1778.30 --> 1808.28] Thank you. -[1808.30 --> 1810.30] Thank you. -[1838.30 --> 1850.30] And my cup it overflows with joy, I feast on His pure delight. -[1850.30 --> 1855.30] And I will trust in you alone. -[1856.30 --> 1861.30] And I will trust in you alone. -[1861.30 --> 1868.30] For your endless mercy follows me. -[1868.30 --> 1873.30] Your goodness will lead me home. -[1873.30 --> 1888.30] And though I walk the darkest path, I will not fear the evil one. -[1888.30 --> 1900.30] For you are with me and your rod and staff are the comfort I need to know. -[1900.30 --> 1905.30] And I will trust in you alone. -[1905.30 --> 1911.30] And I will trust in you alone. -[1911.30 --> 1918.30] For your endless mercy follows me. -[1918.30 --> 1923.30] Your goodness will lead me home. -[1923.30 --> 1929.30] And I will trust in you alone. -[1929.30 --> 1935.30] And I will trust in you alone. -[1935.30 --> 1942.30] For your endless mercy follows me. -[1942.30 --> 1947.30] Your goodness will lead me home. -[1947.30 --> 1968.30] And I will trust in you alone. -[1968.30 --> 1969.30] Good morning. -[1969.30 --> 1970.30] My name is Yap. -[1970.30 --> 1972.30] I am a deacon here at Langley Emanuel. -[1972.30 --> 1977.30] This morning's offering will be for Wellspring UBCO Chaplain. -[1977.30 --> 1979.30] Please give as you are able to. -[1979.30 --> 1980.30] Thank you. -[1980.30 --> 1981.30] Thank you. -[1981.30 --> 1982.30] Thank you. -[1982.30 --> 1987.30] Thank you. -[1987.30 --> 1992.30] Thank you. -[1992.30 --> 1997.30] Thank you. -[1997.30 --> 2002.30] Thank you. -[2002.30 --> 2004.30] Thank you. -[2004.30 --> 2027.30] And to my大 вас standing left c's and three bквies once again. -[2027.30 --> 2030.30] And to my new creation. -[2030.30 --> 2038.54] My life now yielded to my King -[2038.54 --> 2043.04] My will to Him surrender -[2043.04 --> 2049.80] I'm broken open at Your feet -[2049.80 --> 2054.32] Your presence is a treasure -[2054.32 --> 2059.92] It's You alone I treasure -[2059.92 --> 2068.92] Holy, worthy -[2068.92 --> 2075.92] You have no end -[2076.46 --> 2081.92] Holy, worthy -[2081.92 --> 2088.92] Please sing Amen -[2088.92 --> 2090.92] Amen -[2090.92 --> 2098.92] Let every knee on earth can flow -[2098.92 --> 2104.92] And join the host of heaven -[2104.92 --> 2110.92] To Him who sits upon the throne -[2110.92 --> 2115.92] Give praise and adoration -[2115.92 --> 2121.92] The days of hell are overgrown -[2121.92 --> 2126.92] The yoke of slavery shatter -[2126.92 --> 2132.92] For Christ our King He reigns alone -[2132.92 --> 2137.92] Now and forever after -[2137.92 --> 2143.92] Now and forever after -[2143.92 --> 2151.92] Holy, worthy -[2151.92 --> 2158.92] You have no end -[2158.92 --> 2164.92] Holy, worthy -[2164.92 --> 2170.92] We sing Amen -[2170.92 --> 2171.92] Amen -[2171.92 --> 2177.92] Holy, worthy -[2177.92 --> 2182.92] You have no end -[2182.92 --> 2183.92] Holy, worthy -[2183.92 --> 2198.92] We sing Amen -[2198.92 --> 2200.92] Amen -[2200.92 --> 2209.92] The center of all history -[2209.92 --> 2215.92] Your cross and resurrection -[2215.92 --> 2234.92] Good morning everybody -[2234.92 --> 2243.92] Good morning everybody -[2243.92 --> 2245.92] It looks like a lot of the kids have come up -[2245.92 --> 2247.92] But if there's anybody else who would like to come up -[2247.92 --> 2249.92] From preschool to grade four -[2249.92 --> 2251.92] Come on up -[2251.92 --> 2258.92] Okay this morning -[2258.92 --> 2264.92] What have we been studying the last number of weeks in children's worship time? -[2264.92 --> 2265.92] Just shout it out -[2265.92 --> 2266.92] Joseph -[2266.92 --> 2269.92] Can you guys tell me some of the characteristics? -[2269.92 --> 2272.92] This is going to be like a little quiz almost -[2272.92 --> 2274.92] What is one of the weeks that we studied? -[2274.92 --> 2275.92] What we studied? -[2285.92 --> 2289.92] Yep, Joseph getting his rainbow coat and his brothers took it from him -[2289.92 --> 2290.92] Yep -[2296.92 --> 2299.92] Yep, Joseph interpreting the dreams -[2299.92 --> 2301.92] Yep, anybody else? -[2301.92 --> 2306.92] Mm-hmm -[2306.92 --> 2311.92] So we talked about Joseph's two dreams -[2311.92 --> 2315.92] When he gives us a dream we will see through -[2315.92 --> 2319.92] And then we also talked about his jacket taken away -[2319.92 --> 2321.92] And another time we talked about Joseph -[2321.92 --> 2324.92] I know last week we talked about him being in prison -[2324.92 --> 2327.92] So basically we have been going through Joseph's life -[2327.92 --> 2331.92] And I found on when I was looking stuff up -[2331.92 --> 2333.92] I found on the internet -[2333.92 --> 2335.92] Where it says -[2335.92 --> 2338.92] Talking about Joseph's like like an apple -[2338.92 --> 2341.92] So with an apple think about what we do with an apple -[2341.92 --> 2343.92] With an apple we drop apples -[2343.92 --> 2345.92] We peel apples -[2345.92 --> 2346.92] We kick apples -[2346.92 --> 2347.92] Just a second Mateo -[2347.92 --> 2349.92] And we cut them into pieces -[2349.92 --> 2352.92] So when Joseph looks back on his life -[2352.92 --> 2354.92] He sees God through everything -[2354.92 --> 2356.92] Because all those things -[2356.92 --> 2357.92] Where you drop it -[2357.92 --> 2358.92] You get a bruise -[2358.92 --> 2359.92] You peel it -[2359.92 --> 2360.92] There could be a bruise -[2360.92 --> 2362.92] Or the peels aren't so good -[2362.92 --> 2363.92] When you kick it -[2363.92 --> 2364.92] You can feel hurt -[2364.92 --> 2366.92] And then you cut it into pieces -[2366.92 --> 2367.92] To put it in a pie -[2367.92 --> 2369.92] Well through all of that -[2369.92 --> 2370.92] Eventually -[2370.92 --> 2372.92] Joseph sees God -[2372.92 --> 2373.92] Used in all this way -[2373.92 --> 2375.92] When we make applesauce -[2375.92 --> 2378.92] Because we put everything into applesauce -[2378.92 --> 2381.92] And he puts every part of us -[2381.92 --> 2383.92] God is with us -[2383.92 --> 2384.92] Protecting us -[2384.92 --> 2386.92] So today what we're going to learn about -[2386.92 --> 2387.92] Is we're going to learn about -[2387.92 --> 2389.92] Joseph the ruler -[2389.92 --> 2393.92] As he is the ruler of Egypt -[2393.92 --> 2395.92] And our big idea today is -[2395.92 --> 2397.92] God helps us forgive those who have hurt us -[2397.92 --> 2399.92] So think about that -[2399.92 --> 2400.92] Because I'm going to ask you a question -[2400.92 --> 2401.92] In children's worship time -[2401.92 --> 2403.92] On how we feel -[2403.92 --> 2405.92] When someone has hurt us -[2405.92 --> 2407.92] Or we have an argument -[2407.92 --> 2408.92] Okay -[2408.92 --> 2409.92] Can everybody stand up? -[2409.92 --> 2414.92] And look at the congregation -[2414.92 --> 2415.92] Or your parents -[2415.92 --> 2417.92] Okay -[2417.92 --> 2419.92] One, two, three -[2419.92 --> 2420.92] Here we go -[2420.92 --> 2422.92] The Lord be with us -[2422.92 --> 2424.92] Also with you -[2437.92 --> 2438.92] To join us -[2438.92 --> 2439.92] Our church family -[2439.92 --> 2449.92] Thank you -[2449.92 --> 2451.92] Hi, my name's Paul and I'm an elder here -[2451.92 --> 2466.92] And I'd invite you to join me as I pray for this church family -[2466.92 --> 2481.22] Gracious Heavenly Father, you are our sovereign God who created all things for your pleasure -[2481.22 --> 2485.86] and who gives us all life and breath and every good thing. -[2485.86 --> 2491.30] Thank you for the world you created in which we live, Lord. -[2491.98 --> 2495.08] We have the privilege to live in this beautiful place. -[2495.08 --> 2501.92] We only have to look around us to see your handiwork. -[2501.92 --> 2508.76] We give thanks for all of this world in its immense beauty beyond our knowing. -[2508.76 --> 2516.78] You know it and you know us and you make yourself known through the creation we see around us. -[2516.78 --> 2522.18] We thank you for the abundance of the gifts you give us. -[2522.18 --> 2527.82] We thank you for the sun and the rains that allow the land to flourish. -[2527.82 --> 2534.86] Your blessings are poured out on each and every one of us regardless of what we do and how we live our lives. -[2534.86 --> 2543.54] We thank you also in times of disappointments and failures that lead us to acknowledge our dependence on you alone. -[2543.54 --> 2551.88] We especially thank you for your saving grace that you've shown us through your son, Jesus Christ. -[2551.88 --> 2560.58] Open our hearts so that we allow your spirit to lead us so that we may walk in your ways. -[2560.58 --> 2566.92] With your spirit, help us to pray because we don't know how to pray as we should. -[2568.04 --> 2573.60] We ask that you intercede for us with sighs too deep for words. -[2573.60 --> 2582.54] Father, we give you thanks for bringing us together as a church. -[2582.54 --> 2588.28] We pray that you will bless us in our worship, bless us in our fellowship. -[2588.28 --> 2594.76] We give you thanks for this place to meet that has been provided for us. -[2594.76 --> 2603.86] We thank you, O God, for Christ's church as we know it and see it throughout the world and pray for your blessings on it. -[2604.92 --> 2610.12] We ask that you would be with those that are persecuted for your namesake. -[2612.34 --> 2617.10] Thank you for your mercy and grace, for always being there when we need you. -[2617.10 --> 2623.88] When the days are long and our troubles heavy, you are there to walk beside us. -[2625.18 --> 2631.78] We've all come with individual and personal needs, needs that may not have been shared with anyone else. -[2632.84 --> 2636.38] But you know us and the struggles and the burdens we're facing. -[2639.58 --> 2645.24] We're grateful that Judy Verstegg's surgery went well and that she is able to go home. -[2645.24 --> 2650.44] We pray for patience and continued healing for Judy. -[2653.00 --> 2660.68] We praise you, God, for the quick healing of Louise's face after her Bell's palsy diagnosis. -[2662.68 --> 2666.64] We continue to pray for Ashley as she is continuing chemo treatment. -[2667.64 --> 2672.32] We pray for Ashley, her husband, and her kids as they navigate this journey. -[2672.32 --> 2675.82] We ask for strength and complete healing. -[2678.66 --> 2683.40] We remember the shut-ins and those that cannot physically join us each Sunday. -[2684.12 --> 2689.62] We pray that they can feel God's presence in their lives and the sense of community from a distance. -[2692.00 --> 2695.72] We pray for all our leaders, both locally and around the world. -[2695.72 --> 2700.74] We pray that above all, they will be guided by your spirit. -[2701.88 --> 2706.76] We pray that your hand be present in the ongoing conflicts around the world. -[2709.40 --> 2714.30] We pray that through all the special events that are happening at Emmanuel over the next few weeks, -[2714.44 --> 2719.28] that our church family can be Christ's light to all those who attend. -[2719.28 --> 2723.50] And that we will fill all the volunteer spots needed. -[2724.54 --> 2729.38] We pray you will continue to bless all the ongoing ministries of this church. -[2731.88 --> 2735.92] As we hear your will for us this morning, -[2736.66 --> 2739.14] through the word preached by Pastor Jonathan, -[2740.62 --> 2742.44] bind us together in Christ. -[2742.44 --> 2745.94] Keep us focused on your purpose. -[2746.68 --> 2748.46] And fill us with the Holy Spirit. -[2749.78 --> 2752.98] We pray that we will grow in love and truth, -[2754.12 --> 2755.90] righteousness and peace, -[2756.34 --> 2757.64] hope and faith. -[2758.92 --> 2760.50] Help us to grow in Jesus, -[2760.70 --> 2763.64] that we may become more and more like him, -[2763.88 --> 2765.86] in character and soul. -[2767.54 --> 2770.60] Fulfill your will and purposes among us, -[2770.60 --> 2772.12] so that we can go out. -[2773.62 --> 2776.18] Your kingdom will advance through us, -[2776.34 --> 2778.92] and your holy name is glorified. -[2781.26 --> 2785.64] Who are we that we would share in your love and tender care, -[2785.90 --> 2788.06] raised to an exalted height, -[2788.72 --> 2791.48] and crowned with honor in your sight? -[2792.28 --> 2794.84] How great is your name. -[2794.84 --> 2798.36] We pray that you will come quickly, Lord, -[2798.46 --> 2801.28] and bring our redemption to completeness. -[2802.66 --> 2805.56] We pray all these things in your holy name. -[2806.26 --> 2806.62] Amen. -[2806.62 --> 2806.72] Amen. -[2820.72 --> 2822.34] Good morning. -[2822.34 --> 2826.06] I think you can hear me. -[2826.36 --> 2826.64] Yes? -[2828.76 --> 2832.54] It is a gift and a privilege to worship with you again, -[2832.74 --> 2834.08] and to bring you God's word. -[2835.02 --> 2837.56] And as Elder Paul just prayed for us, -[2838.02 --> 2842.38] for us to be Christ's light for the world is our calling, -[2842.98 --> 2844.72] our baptismal identity, -[2844.86 --> 2845.42] the salvation, -[2845.74 --> 2847.76] the gift that we receive from Christ, -[2848.30 --> 2851.08] is so that we reflect it for the world, -[2851.08 --> 2853.12] to be a blessing for the world. -[2853.28 --> 2855.98] That's what it means to be disciples of Christ. -[2856.16 --> 2856.44] Yes? -[2856.90 --> 2859.90] And we are all called to be disciples of Christ, -[2860.12 --> 2863.04] which means that we are called to walk step by step -[2863.04 --> 2865.84] with our Savior every day of our lives, -[2865.88 --> 2867.22] not just on Sunday mornings. -[2867.56 --> 2868.82] As a gift as it is, -[2869.08 --> 2872.34] it is to be here together as brothers and sisters in Christ, -[2872.74 --> 2876.22] we are also sent to be a light for the world. -[2876.22 --> 2878.76] And as I was preparing for today, -[2878.90 --> 2881.50] and what I wanted to share with Emmanuel here, -[2882.06 --> 2885.76] was maybe a focus on what it means to be a light, -[2886.00 --> 2887.34] yes, to be disciples, -[2887.84 --> 2889.60] but especially in our workplaces. -[2890.66 --> 2894.48] And what more appropriate image is there -[2894.48 --> 2896.68] for to be a blessing in a workplace -[2896.68 --> 2899.90] than to take on a work equipment, -[2900.80 --> 2903.02] the yoke of Christ, Jesus says. -[2903.02 --> 2904.88] Because when you think of it, -[2905.38 --> 2906.56] you could ask the question, -[2906.68 --> 2909.12] why did Jesus use a yoke image -[2909.12 --> 2913.48] to teach us what it means to be his followers? -[2914.20 --> 2916.16] And so that's what we want to look at, -[2916.38 --> 2918.44] to take on Jesus' yoke, -[2919.10 --> 2921.58] which is light and his burden is easy. -[2922.80 --> 2924.38] Does it always feel that way? -[2924.78 --> 2925.66] Not too sure, -[2925.78 --> 2928.84] but that's the wrestling that we get to do together -[2928.84 --> 2929.80] with God's word. -[2929.80 --> 2931.62] This is good news for us. -[2931.70 --> 2933.02] And I want to invite you -[2933.02 --> 2937.00] to receive Jesus' yoke as good news. -[2937.20 --> 2938.84] Not as an extra burden, -[2939.04 --> 2941.56] oh, it means that we have to do this as Christians, -[2941.68 --> 2942.56] we have to do that. -[2942.92 --> 2948.64] No, it is to be truly rested in Christ's presence. -[2948.88 --> 2950.46] That's what it means to take on his yoke. -[2950.68 --> 2952.20] And that is good news for us. -[2952.48 --> 2953.66] So with that in mind, -[2953.90 --> 2955.60] I would like for us to see -[2955.60 --> 2957.66] what an actual yoke looks like. -[2957.66 --> 2959.50] If we can see it on the screen, -[2959.64 --> 2960.22] there we go. -[2960.58 --> 2962.78] So, I mean, if you're not familiar with it, -[2962.88 --> 2964.58] obviously I didn't grow up on a farm, -[2964.74 --> 2967.20] and so I had to remind myself what a yoke is. -[2967.58 --> 2968.78] This will come up again. -[2968.90 --> 2971.30] So I invite you to keep this image in your head, -[2971.94 --> 2974.06] just this image of a yoke. -[2974.14 --> 2976.14] This is what a stereotypical yoke looks like. -[2976.78 --> 2979.58] And so when you think about work, -[2980.04 --> 2981.24] you know, in your workplaces -[2981.24 --> 2984.20] or whatever you think of when you think of work, -[2985.48 --> 2987.76] when you actually do the hard work, -[2987.88 --> 2989.90] the right way to do something, -[2989.96 --> 2991.06] instead of taking shortcuts, -[2991.84 --> 2993.70] can you try to think of the times -[2993.70 --> 2995.92] when it was so fulfilling to do that hard work? -[2996.68 --> 2996.84] Right? -[2996.92 --> 2998.32] Not taking shortcuts, right? -[2998.36 --> 3000.68] Doing the actual hard work of doing it the right way, -[3000.94 --> 3003.68] and how fulfilling it was afterwards. -[3004.52 --> 3004.76] You know? -[3005.46 --> 3007.12] I know this doesn't really count as work -[3007.12 --> 3010.10] because it's not necessarily what I do as a vocation, -[3010.48 --> 3011.66] but I grew up as a drummer. -[3012.30 --> 3013.64] I've drummed my whole, -[3013.90 --> 3015.04] I can't say whole life, -[3015.16 --> 3016.96] I've drummed more than half of my life, -[3016.98 --> 3017.48] I'll just say. -[3018.02 --> 3019.84] I've served on worship teams, -[3020.10 --> 3021.66] from my memory, -[3021.84 --> 3023.28] almost ever since I was youth, -[3023.52 --> 3025.52] I've never stopped until maybe adulthood. -[3026.24 --> 3026.78] But anyways, -[3027.34 --> 3029.36] when I recall the countless hours -[3029.36 --> 3030.98] that I tormented my family, -[3031.14 --> 3033.82] playing and practicing the drums in my home, -[3033.82 --> 3036.28] that's when I think of doing it the right way, -[3036.38 --> 3037.34] like doing hard work. -[3037.90 --> 3038.98] Like if you know the movie, -[3039.54 --> 3041.66] like think of me like that guy in Whiplash, -[3042.06 --> 3042.28] right? -[3042.34 --> 3043.94] Where he's just working on his craft, -[3044.10 --> 3045.48] like he's getting sweaty and bloody, -[3045.88 --> 3046.84] like in his hands I mean, -[3047.14 --> 3048.52] and he's just trying to work -[3048.52 --> 3050.70] so that he can hone his craft. -[3051.40 --> 3052.90] Now I didn't go to that extreme, -[3053.00 --> 3053.38] and again, -[3053.46 --> 3054.58] I'm not a professional drummer, -[3054.98 --> 3056.92] but instead of taking shortcuts -[3056.92 --> 3058.92] and just spinning sticks and showing off, -[3059.12 --> 3060.58] I did the hard work -[3060.58 --> 3062.74] and it was freeing and rewarding -[3062.74 --> 3065.36] when playing with the rest of the worship band. -[3066.40 --> 3068.10] And I think this is the sort of image -[3068.10 --> 3070.12] of what our passage that we're going to look at -[3070.12 --> 3071.26] is trying to teach us, -[3071.54 --> 3073.22] what Jesus is trying to teach us. -[3073.32 --> 3077.12] Because Jesus offers us the way to true rest, -[3077.88 --> 3079.52] which is true life, -[3079.64 --> 3081.94] to flourish and to live the way -[3081.94 --> 3084.56] God intended for us from the beginning. -[3084.98 --> 3087.26] It is hard work in some ways, -[3087.26 --> 3089.80] but it's the right way to live. -[3090.06 --> 3092.04] And Jesus offers the flourishing, -[3092.26 --> 3094.98] freeing gift of real life. -[3095.98 --> 3097.42] And I think that's the tough part -[3097.42 --> 3098.22] of the passage today. -[3098.74 --> 3099.96] It is hard work, -[3100.30 --> 3101.40] doing the right thing, -[3101.48 --> 3102.44] not taking shortcuts, -[3102.64 --> 3104.38] living with Jesus in the way of blessing. -[3104.64 --> 3106.70] It may not always feel easy -[3106.70 --> 3108.64] and light all the time, -[3109.12 --> 3110.66] especially, I suggest, -[3110.72 --> 3111.60] in our workplaces. -[3112.22 --> 3114.42] But this hard work is made easy -[3114.42 --> 3117.70] because it is the Lord of creation -[3117.70 --> 3119.16] who comforts, -[3119.52 --> 3120.42] and more importantly, -[3120.70 --> 3123.84] who equips us for this right way of living. -[3124.82 --> 3126.48] And so if you have your Bibles with you, -[3126.90 --> 3129.46] or if you can take a look on the screen, -[3129.86 --> 3131.10] we read from God's Word -[3131.10 --> 3132.56] from the Gospel of Matthew. -[3133.54 --> 3136.00] In chapter 11, we read from verse 25. -[3136.00 --> 3139.64] At that time, Jesus said, -[3139.64 --> 3141.06] I praise you, Father, -[3141.18 --> 3142.80] Lord of heaven and earth, -[3142.92 --> 3145.04] because you have hidden these things -[3145.04 --> 3146.16] from the wise and learned -[3146.16 --> 3148.28] and revealed them to little children. -[3149.08 --> 3149.70] Yes, Father, -[3149.84 --> 3151.96] for this is what you were pleased to do. -[3152.48 --> 3154.80] All things have been committed to me -[3154.80 --> 3155.94] by my Father. -[3156.32 --> 3158.68] No one knows the Son except the Father, -[3158.76 --> 3161.30] and no one knows the Father except the Son, -[3161.38 --> 3164.28] and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him. -[3164.84 --> 3166.18] So come to me, -[3166.36 --> 3168.54] all you who are weary and burdened, -[3168.54 --> 3170.24] and I will give you rest. -[3171.20 --> 3173.96] Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, -[3174.06 --> 3176.68] for I am gentle and humble in heart, -[3176.80 --> 3179.50] and you will find rest for your souls. -[3180.40 --> 3181.32] For my yoke, -[3181.92 --> 3184.94] my yoke is easy and my burden is light. -[3185.48 --> 3186.80] This is the Word of the Lord. -[3188.84 --> 3191.12] And so upon my reading and reflecting, -[3191.92 --> 3193.44] I thought of four questions -[3193.44 --> 3194.94] that helped me think a little deeper -[3194.94 --> 3196.26] about the passage -[3196.26 --> 3198.04] and about Jesus' tough teaching here. -[3198.54 --> 3199.68] So these four questions -[3199.68 --> 3201.18] will be up on the screen for you. -[3201.42 --> 3202.00] First of all, -[3202.34 --> 3203.96] who is Jesus talking about -[3203.96 --> 3205.74] when He says the wise and learned? -[3205.86 --> 3206.22] He says, -[3206.60 --> 3208.42] you have kept these things -[3208.42 --> 3209.84] from the wise and learned. -[3210.52 --> 3211.14] Wise and learned, -[3211.22 --> 3211.70] who are they? -[3212.12 --> 3212.44] Second, -[3212.68 --> 3213.98] who are the little children then? -[3214.20 --> 3214.68] He says, -[3215.00 --> 3216.32] the Father kept these things -[3216.32 --> 3217.62] from the wise and learned, -[3217.70 --> 3219.76] but revealed them to little children. -[3220.10 --> 3221.46] So who are the little children? -[3221.98 --> 3222.30] Third, -[3222.30 --> 3224.06] who is Jesus claiming to be -[3224.06 --> 3224.84] in this passage? -[3225.34 --> 3226.44] Because I suggest -[3226.44 --> 3228.50] it was a very scandalous message, -[3228.90 --> 3230.64] especially to those Jews, -[3230.94 --> 3231.80] first century Jews, -[3231.92 --> 3233.48] receiving this message from Him. -[3234.26 --> 3235.02] And then lastly, -[3235.62 --> 3237.06] why or how -[3237.06 --> 3238.86] is wearing Jesus' yoke -[3238.86 --> 3240.24] easy for our lives? -[3240.36 --> 3240.70] Again, -[3240.98 --> 3241.74] what I suggested, -[3241.86 --> 3242.78] this is good news. -[3243.10 --> 3245.00] This is good news for us. -[3245.68 --> 3246.66] And so these questions -[3246.66 --> 3248.00] sort of outline our whole passage. -[3248.00 --> 3249.04] So let's tackle -[3249.04 --> 3250.04] the first two questions. -[3250.62 --> 3251.00] For that, -[3251.12 --> 3251.76] we need to look at -[3251.76 --> 3252.84] the actual context. -[3253.34 --> 3255.54] Because in the immediate context -[3255.54 --> 3257.66] of Jesus speaking these words, -[3258.28 --> 3259.64] the verses right before it, -[3260.12 --> 3261.54] Jesus is speaking judgment -[3261.54 --> 3263.78] against the unrepentant cities -[3263.78 --> 3265.28] and towns that He ministered in. -[3265.70 --> 3266.98] So He goes and shares -[3266.98 --> 3268.04] the good news of the kingdom, -[3268.20 --> 3269.40] but these cities and towns -[3269.40 --> 3270.32] do not receive them. -[3271.16 --> 3272.46] And then from that, -[3272.60 --> 3273.98] after calling judgment -[3273.98 --> 3275.12] and woes on those -[3275.12 --> 3276.00] unrepentant cities, -[3276.68 --> 3277.94] Jesus right away -[3277.94 --> 3279.60] turns and then praises -[3279.60 --> 3280.28] the Father. -[3281.22 --> 3282.38] It's a bit of a weird image -[3282.38 --> 3283.34] if you think about it. -[3284.28 --> 3285.22] Because right after, -[3286.16 --> 3287.38] again, like I said, -[3287.54 --> 3289.46] right after speaking judgment, -[3289.66 --> 3291.00] He praises the Father. -[3291.16 --> 3291.92] And you can ask, -[3292.62 --> 3293.44] and technically, -[3293.60 --> 3295.04] you can ask Jesus and say, -[3295.40 --> 3295.66] Jesus, -[3296.08 --> 3297.42] I thought you were -[3297.42 --> 3300.20] like bringing God's kingdom -[3300.20 --> 3300.86] on earth -[3300.86 --> 3302.12] and that your miracles -[3302.12 --> 3303.14] and your ministries -[3303.14 --> 3304.74] would convince everyone -[3304.74 --> 3305.86] to become your disciples. -[3305.86 --> 3308.46] How come they did not repent -[3308.46 --> 3309.98] and they did not follow you? -[3311.38 --> 3312.44] Isn't that a failure? -[3313.50 --> 3314.88] But now you're turning to God -[3314.88 --> 3315.82] and you're praising Him? -[3316.62 --> 3317.20] For what? -[3317.92 --> 3318.16] Right? -[3319.24 --> 3320.84] Well, Jesus gives thanks, -[3321.10 --> 3321.78] and specifically, -[3322.02 --> 3322.66] He gives thanks -[3322.66 --> 3323.66] and praises the Father -[3323.66 --> 3325.44] for not revealing the kingdom -[3325.44 --> 3327.56] to the wise and learned. -[3327.80 --> 3329.02] Hence, our first question. -[3329.58 --> 3331.08] Who are the wise and learned? -[3331.08 --> 3334.52] Jesus can't simply be talking about -[3334.52 --> 3335.80] like smart people, can He? -[3336.36 --> 3337.16] Like the scholars -[3337.16 --> 3337.94] and those people -[3337.94 --> 3338.90] who thought they were smart? -[3339.46 --> 3341.56] Wouldn't that be a problem -[3341.56 --> 3342.70] for us today as well? -[3343.20 --> 3344.60] If God just hates -[3344.60 --> 3345.80] or God does not reveal -[3345.80 --> 3347.12] His kingdom to smart people, -[3347.58 --> 3348.24] I mean, who thinks -[3348.24 --> 3348.92] they're smart here? -[3349.56 --> 3350.46] If you raise your hand, -[3350.52 --> 3352.10] then the kingdom is not yours. -[3353.10 --> 3355.22] It can't be as simple as that, can it? -[3356.84 --> 3358.10] Obviously, that's not -[3358.10 --> 3359.22] what Jesus is getting at. -[3359.22 --> 3361.34] What Jesus is speaking into, -[3361.48 --> 3362.56] it's a common theme -[3362.56 --> 3363.46] that's found throughout -[3363.46 --> 3364.84] the whole biblical story. -[3365.54 --> 3366.90] See, Jesus is giving thanks -[3366.90 --> 3368.62] to the Father for His love -[3368.62 --> 3370.56] for the lowly and oppressed. -[3371.54 --> 3371.72] Right? -[3372.14 --> 3373.76] That's what Jesus is talking about. -[3373.86 --> 3374.52] Throughout the Bible, -[3374.60 --> 3376.42] we can see that our God, -[3376.68 --> 3377.82] our Father in Heaven, -[3378.24 --> 3379.60] loves and has mercy -[3379.60 --> 3380.82] on those that are vulnerable -[3380.82 --> 3381.88] and are in need. -[3382.26 --> 3384.52] Just to pull out a couple of verses -[3384.52 --> 3385.42] from the Old Testament, -[3385.80 --> 3387.50] in Isaiah 66, we read, -[3387.50 --> 3389.24] Has not my hand made -[3389.24 --> 3390.04] all these things, -[3390.12 --> 3391.54] and so they come into being, -[3392.08 --> 3392.90] declares the Lord. -[3393.30 --> 3394.36] These are the ones -[3394.36 --> 3395.80] I look on with favor. -[3396.42 --> 3397.56] Those who are humble -[3397.56 --> 3399.00] and contrite in spirit -[3399.00 --> 3401.04] and who tremble at my word. -[3401.82 --> 3403.26] The humble and the lowly. -[3403.62 --> 3405.24] Even Proverbs 3, it says, -[3405.66 --> 3406.26] He mocks. -[3406.32 --> 3408.42] So God mocks proud mockers, -[3408.54 --> 3409.90] but shows favor -[3409.90 --> 3411.66] to the humble and oppressed. -[3412.78 --> 3414.22] That's the Father's heart. -[3414.22 --> 3415.98] And that's what Jesus is reflecting -[3415.98 --> 3417.42] as well as He teaches us. -[3418.14 --> 3419.82] So this theme of humbling the proud -[3419.82 --> 3421.16] and exalting the humble -[3421.16 --> 3423.58] can be found in books like Job -[3423.58 --> 3425.18] and Proverbs as we saw, -[3425.52 --> 3426.22] in the prophet Ezekiel -[3426.84 --> 3428.04] or in the Gospel of Matthew -[3428.04 --> 3428.78] or even Luke. -[3429.16 --> 3429.68] And arguably, -[3430.04 --> 3431.42] it's traced all throughout -[3431.42 --> 3432.76] in both Testaments. -[3434.08 --> 3435.08] So it's safe to say -[3435.08 --> 3437.28] that Jesus is not simply saying -[3437.28 --> 3438.44] that the Father hates -[3438.44 --> 3439.22] and hides the kingdom -[3439.22 --> 3440.16] from smart people. -[3440.60 --> 3441.64] He is saying that -[3441.64 --> 3443.72] our God opposes the proud. -[3444.22 --> 3447.20] In other words, -[3447.36 --> 3449.22] Jesus is speaking against those -[3449.22 --> 3450.42] who have the temptation -[3450.42 --> 3451.22] to think either, -[3451.30 --> 3452.04] on the one hand, -[3452.44 --> 3455.16] that we can overcome anything -[3455.16 --> 3457.10] by our own wisdom and strength, -[3457.52 --> 3459.32] where we sit on God's throne -[3459.32 --> 3461.18] and we try to rule our own lives. -[3461.68 --> 3462.62] That sort of pride. -[3463.22 --> 3464.54] Or, on the other hand, -[3464.84 --> 3465.82] those who think -[3465.82 --> 3466.92] that more knowledge -[3466.92 --> 3469.30] and close work with God's word -[3469.30 --> 3472.20] must make us especially privileged -[3472.20 --> 3473.62] and closer to God, -[3473.98 --> 3476.64] as if there are holy vocations -[3476.64 --> 3479.28] versus secular jobs. -[3481.34 --> 3482.80] And speaking of that, -[3482.94 --> 3484.58] it's a sad reality in history -[3484.58 --> 3485.96] and part of our Christianity, -[3486.16 --> 3486.54] isn't it? -[3487.58 --> 3487.84] Right? -[3487.94 --> 3489.68] Whether intentionally or not, -[3489.92 --> 3491.50] many Christians throughout history -[3491.50 --> 3493.22] have so commonly set up -[3493.22 --> 3494.42] hierarchies of jobs, -[3494.54 --> 3496.38] thinking that only if you work -[3496.38 --> 3497.06] for the church -[3497.06 --> 3498.30] or a mission organization, -[3498.30 --> 3499.72] you are holier -[3499.72 --> 3501.14] or you are better Christian. -[3502.50 --> 3503.88] And that's what Jesus -[3503.88 --> 3505.10] is speaking against here -[3505.10 --> 3506.12] in this passage as well, -[3506.42 --> 3508.00] against those religious elites, -[3508.38 --> 3509.46] against the Pharisees -[3509.46 --> 3510.58] and the teachers of the law -[3510.58 --> 3511.86] who thought they were better -[3511.86 --> 3512.96] just because they worked -[3512.96 --> 3514.26] close to God. -[3514.72 --> 3515.46] Close to God. -[3516.80 --> 3517.92] That's the pride -[3517.92 --> 3518.92] that God opposes. -[3518.92 --> 3522.62] because all of our workplaces -[3522.62 --> 3524.20] and all of our vocations -[3524.20 --> 3525.16] is the word we say, -[3525.62 --> 3527.18] can reflect God's goodness -[3527.18 --> 3528.66] and His redemptive plans -[3528.66 --> 3529.36] and His kingdom -[3529.36 --> 3530.42] for all creation. -[3531.14 --> 3532.08] So whether you work -[3532.08 --> 3532.62] for a church -[3532.62 --> 3533.94] or for the local supermarket, -[3534.48 --> 3535.78] our calling is to be -[3535.78 --> 3536.88] disciples of Jesus -[3536.88 --> 3537.80] every day -[3537.80 --> 3539.22] and every step of our lives. -[3541.20 --> 3542.32] And so just like -[3542.32 --> 3543.18] the Sermon on the Mount -[3543.18 --> 3544.86] where Jesus rebukes -[3544.86 --> 3545.42] the Pharisees -[3545.42 --> 3547.46] and the religiously proud, -[3547.46 --> 3548.96] Jesus here -[3548.96 --> 3549.96] is speaking to the heart. -[3550.34 --> 3551.82] He's speaking against the pride -[3551.82 --> 3553.26] that we are all tempted with -[3553.26 --> 3554.48] even in our own hearts. -[3555.34 --> 3556.04] And Dale Bruner, -[3556.16 --> 3556.86] this commentator -[3556.86 --> 3557.72] of this passage -[3557.72 --> 3558.98] in the Gospel of Matthew, -[3559.36 --> 3560.46] he captures the essence -[3560.46 --> 3561.62] of this little part here. -[3561.94 --> 3562.56] And he says, -[3562.92 --> 3563.92] those who feel -[3563.92 --> 3565.50] their spiritual brilliance -[3565.50 --> 3566.98] and are sorry for those -[3566.98 --> 3568.90] who fall so far beneath them, -[3569.26 --> 3572.48] who bask in self-importance -[3572.48 --> 3574.26] and feel God is lucky -[3574.26 --> 3575.10] to have them, -[3575.10 --> 3578.06] these find in Jesus' Father -[3578.06 --> 3578.62] a back. -[3579.68 --> 3581.66] But those who feel their sin -[3581.66 --> 3583.02] are sorry for it -[3583.02 --> 3584.86] and come asking for help, -[3585.30 --> 3587.42] these find in Jesus' Father -[3587.42 --> 3588.28] open arms. -[3590.04 --> 3591.52] And these latter people, -[3592.20 --> 3593.26] the people who come -[3593.26 --> 3594.72] humbly before the Father, -[3595.20 --> 3596.28] those who know -[3596.28 --> 3597.44] that they are in need -[3597.44 --> 3598.14] of a Savior, -[3599.18 --> 3601.00] these people, -[3601.14 --> 3601.64] I should say, -[3601.96 --> 3603.34] are the little children -[3603.34 --> 3605.10] that Jesus is talking about. -[3605.18 --> 3606.24] Hence our second question, -[3606.52 --> 3607.82] who are the little children? -[3609.62 --> 3611.22] These people -[3611.22 --> 3612.94] that are like real children, -[3613.40 --> 3615.98] that are real disciples of Christ, -[3616.96 --> 3618.66] they are the ones -[3618.66 --> 3619.82] that are called disciples -[3619.82 --> 3621.78] as opposed to the crowd. -[3622.40 --> 3623.44] You have to think of it, right? -[3623.66 --> 3625.50] Whenever Jesus goes to a town -[3625.50 --> 3627.14] or wherever he teaches, -[3627.62 --> 3628.90] there are hundreds -[3628.90 --> 3630.40] or even thousands of people -[3630.40 --> 3631.22] that gather to him -[3631.22 --> 3632.16] to try and hear -[3632.16 --> 3633.08] what he has to say -[3633.08 --> 3634.78] because he was known -[3634.78 --> 3635.88] as a wise prophet, -[3636.02 --> 3636.72] a good teacher. -[3637.50 --> 3639.40] But then only those -[3639.40 --> 3640.72] that were called disciples, -[3641.48 --> 3642.56] they were the ones -[3642.56 --> 3644.18] who came close to Jesus -[3644.18 --> 3645.76] and tried to follow him -[3645.76 --> 3646.54] in his ways -[3646.54 --> 3648.38] because they are the ones -[3648.38 --> 3650.58] that were not necessarily smarter. -[3651.14 --> 3651.92] You have to think, -[3651.98 --> 3653.96] even Jesus' original 12 disciples, -[3654.34 --> 3655.32] they were not necessarily -[3655.32 --> 3656.28] smarter people. -[3656.28 --> 3658.94] They were just the people -[3658.94 --> 3659.58] who knew -[3659.58 --> 3661.36] that Jesus was their Savior -[3661.36 --> 3663.32] and that they were -[3663.32 --> 3664.56] in total dependence -[3664.56 --> 3665.44] and need of him. -[3666.50 --> 3667.82] As opposed to the crowd -[3667.82 --> 3669.38] who stood at a distance -[3669.38 --> 3671.32] and said, -[3671.64 --> 3672.16] all right Jesus, -[3672.32 --> 3672.84] what you got? -[3673.72 --> 3675.40] If you say the right things -[3675.40 --> 3676.20] that I want to hear, -[3676.28 --> 3676.98] then I'll stick around. -[3677.28 --> 3678.56] If you say the things -[3678.56 --> 3679.46] that I don't like, -[3679.84 --> 3680.74] then I'll just leave. -[3681.16 --> 3681.32] Right? -[3681.52 --> 3682.58] That's the crowd -[3682.58 --> 3684.32] as opposed to the disciples. -[3684.32 --> 3687.06] And these are the ones -[3687.06 --> 3687.58] that are called -[3687.58 --> 3688.34] little children. -[3689.86 --> 3691.02] Like Jesus teaches -[3691.02 --> 3691.92] in the Beatitudes, -[3692.06 --> 3692.22] right? -[3692.26 --> 3692.76] At the beginning -[3692.76 --> 3693.80] of the Sermon on the Mount, -[3694.44 --> 3694.88] do you remember -[3694.88 --> 3695.80] what the first one is? -[3696.46 --> 3697.02] Blessed are, -[3697.12 --> 3698.36] and you have a list of them? -[3699.02 --> 3699.50] Oh, I mean, -[3699.86 --> 3700.54] gave it away. -[3700.86 --> 3701.68] Blessed are, -[3702.08 --> 3703.82] blessed are the poor -[3703.82 --> 3704.48] in spirit. -[3705.12 --> 3706.34] The poor in spirit, -[3706.44 --> 3706.98] the humble, -[3707.10 --> 3708.20] the contrite in spirit. -[3709.06 --> 3710.28] Yours is the kingdom -[3710.28 --> 3710.80] of heaven. -[3711.60 --> 3711.72] Right? -[3711.74 --> 3712.58] That's what Jesus says -[3712.58 --> 3713.72] and it's the same message. -[3713.72 --> 3715.32] like little children. -[3715.76 --> 3717.24] And even in Matthew 18, -[3717.58 --> 3718.24] Jesus says, -[3718.56 --> 3719.56] Truly I tell you, -[3719.84 --> 3721.30] unless you change -[3721.30 --> 3722.38] and become like -[3722.38 --> 3724.10] little children, -[3724.62 --> 3725.54] you will never enter -[3725.54 --> 3726.40] the kingdom of heaven. -[3726.64 --> 3727.56] And whoever welcomes -[3727.56 --> 3728.58] one such child -[3728.58 --> 3729.38] in my name -[3729.38 --> 3730.92] welcomes me. -[3732.56 --> 3733.56] So this kingdom -[3733.56 --> 3735.32] is revealed to the humble. -[3735.62 --> 3736.56] And this is -[3736.56 --> 3737.50] the Father's will. -[3738.72 --> 3740.32] This is the Father's will. -[3740.92 --> 3741.82] And then we have to jump -[3741.82 --> 3742.96] to the third question now. -[3742.96 --> 3744.38] Because Jesus says, -[3744.88 --> 3745.80] this will of the Father -[3745.80 --> 3746.92] to reveal the kingdom -[3746.92 --> 3748.06] to those that are humble, -[3748.72 --> 3749.84] that come to God -[3749.84 --> 3750.98] in total dependence, -[3751.22 --> 3752.20] that are poor in spirit, -[3752.96 --> 3753.38] He says, -[3753.52 --> 3754.14] all of this, -[3754.32 --> 3755.70] all of this Father's will -[3755.70 --> 3757.48] is done exclusively -[3757.48 --> 3758.70] through Him -[3758.70 --> 3759.78] and Him alone. -[3761.96 --> 3763.14] Jesus says that -[3763.14 --> 3763.62] Panta, -[3763.90 --> 3764.82] this is the Greek word -[3764.82 --> 3765.76] saying everything, -[3766.42 --> 3767.84] absolutely everything -[3767.84 --> 3769.26] is in my hands. -[3769.26 --> 3771.04] the Father -[3771.04 --> 3773.80] reveals the kingdom -[3773.80 --> 3774.48] to those -[3774.48 --> 3775.48] that the Son -[3775.48 --> 3776.58] chooses to reveal. -[3776.78 --> 3777.82] The Father and the Son -[3777.82 --> 3778.38] are one. -[3778.94 --> 3779.52] So Jesus, -[3779.74 --> 3780.36] in other words, -[3780.42 --> 3781.58] is saying and claiming -[3781.58 --> 3783.82] that He is God. -[3785.32 --> 3786.38] Think about it. -[3786.80 --> 3788.14] To those receiving -[3788.14 --> 3789.00] Jesus' words -[3789.00 --> 3790.10] right in this context, -[3790.82 --> 3792.72] the monotheistic Jews, -[3792.88 --> 3794.38] the Jews that only believe -[3794.38 --> 3795.10] in one God, -[3795.18 --> 3795.98] and rightly so, -[3795.98 --> 3797.58] in the midst -[3797.58 --> 3799.06] of a pantheistic, -[3799.66 --> 3800.04] you know, -[3800.36 --> 3801.12] pagan society -[3801.12 --> 3801.64] that believed -[3801.64 --> 3802.60] in a whole bunch -[3802.60 --> 3803.28] of gods, -[3803.42 --> 3803.70] plural, -[3804.46 --> 3805.18] the Jews that were -[3805.18 --> 3806.40] trying to hold on -[3806.40 --> 3807.24] to their faith, -[3807.58 --> 3808.82] believing in one God, -[3808.92 --> 3809.78] this Jesus fellow -[3809.78 --> 3811.04] comes in and he says, -[3811.44 --> 3812.80] I and the Father -[3812.80 --> 3813.44] are one. -[3814.90 --> 3816.20] The Father reveals -[3816.20 --> 3816.60] the kingdom -[3816.60 --> 3817.70] only through me. -[3819.40 --> 3819.78] And so, -[3819.94 --> 3820.72] even according -[3820.72 --> 3821.36] to Scripture, -[3821.88 --> 3822.48] even according -[3822.48 --> 3823.24] to our own -[3823.24 --> 3824.44] Old Testament, -[3824.86 --> 3825.00] right, -[3825.00 --> 3826.24] it is our Scripture too. -[3826.74 --> 3827.84] According to Scripture, -[3828.34 --> 3828.94] the Jews, -[3829.08 --> 3829.66] the crowd, -[3829.88 --> 3830.84] would have had -[3830.84 --> 3831.48] the right, -[3832.36 --> 3833.06] the justification -[3833.06 --> 3834.66] to stone this man Jesus -[3834.66 --> 3836.28] for making such a claim -[3836.28 --> 3837.80] if his claim -[3837.80 --> 3838.64] was not true. -[3839.80 --> 3841.54] If Jesus' claim -[3841.54 --> 3843.06] to be the Son of God, -[3843.16 --> 3844.06] to be the Savior -[3844.06 --> 3845.28] and the Redeemer -[3845.28 --> 3845.80] of the world, -[3845.88 --> 3847.04] if that is not true, -[3847.20 --> 3848.10] he should have -[3848.10 --> 3849.18] rightly been stoned. -[3850.56 --> 3851.58] But that is -[3851.58 --> 3852.76] the call to faith, -[3852.80 --> 3853.30] isn't it? -[3853.30 --> 3855.40] Do you believe -[3855.40 --> 3856.12] in Jesus -[3856.12 --> 3857.20] as your Lord -[3857.20 --> 3857.82] and Savior? -[3859.04 --> 3860.00] That is the question -[3860.00 --> 3860.88] he is asking -[3860.88 --> 3861.48] to the crowd, -[3861.72 --> 3862.84] that he is asking us, -[3862.96 --> 3864.18] that when we get baptized, -[3864.42 --> 3866.30] that's the question, -[3866.60 --> 3867.26] that is the call -[3867.26 --> 3867.74] to faith -[3867.74 --> 3868.56] that we confess -[3868.56 --> 3869.10] ourselves. -[3870.10 --> 3871.64] Do you believe -[3871.64 --> 3872.44] and trust -[3872.44 --> 3873.40] in Jesus Christ -[3873.40 --> 3874.04] as your Lord -[3874.04 --> 3874.50] and Savior? -[3876.82 --> 3877.84] This is what -[3877.84 --> 3878.72] he is asking -[3878.72 --> 3879.44] of the crowd. -[3879.44 --> 3882.86] because to accept -[3882.86 --> 3884.02] and confess -[3884.02 --> 3885.30] that Jesus -[3885.30 --> 3886.04] is Lord -[3886.04 --> 3887.96] has huge implications -[3887.96 --> 3888.82] for our lives. -[3889.22 --> 3890.00] Confessing that -[3890.00 --> 3891.66] Jesus is our Lord, -[3892.00 --> 3893.30] that Jesus is Lord -[3893.30 --> 3894.60] of my own life, -[3895.40 --> 3896.12] it means that -[3896.12 --> 3897.32] our whole life, -[3897.58 --> 3898.70] our whole lives -[3898.70 --> 3899.78] belong to him. -[3901.40 --> 3902.72] We Christians, -[3903.62 --> 3903.90] right, -[3904.10 --> 3905.02] we disciples -[3905.02 --> 3906.16] of Jesus Christ, -[3906.24 --> 3906.96] the Son of God, -[3907.14 --> 3907.82] are a people -[3907.82 --> 3908.48] that believes -[3908.48 --> 3909.32] and confesses -[3909.32 --> 3910.16] that everything, -[3910.82 --> 3912.38] absolutely everything, -[3913.00 --> 3914.46] rests in Christ's hands. -[3916.22 --> 3916.88] And so Paul, -[3917.04 --> 3917.60] in his letter -[3917.60 --> 3918.30] to the Colossians, -[3918.42 --> 3918.72] says, -[3919.12 --> 3919.86] for in him, -[3920.18 --> 3921.54] in Christ, -[3921.98 --> 3922.70] all things -[3922.70 --> 3923.30] were created, -[3923.62 --> 3924.32] things in heaven -[3924.32 --> 3925.12] and on earth, -[3925.40 --> 3926.70] visible and invisible, -[3927.10 --> 3927.90] whether thrones -[3927.90 --> 3928.56] or powers -[3928.56 --> 3929.24] or authorities, -[3929.60 --> 3930.42] all things -[3930.42 --> 3931.12] have been created -[3931.12 --> 3932.14] through Jesus -[3932.14 --> 3933.46] and for Jesus. -[3933.98 --> 3935.34] He is before -[3935.34 --> 3936.08] all things -[3936.08 --> 3937.84] and in Christ -[3937.84 --> 3938.62] our Lord, -[3938.94 --> 3939.66] all things -[3939.66 --> 3940.40] hold together. -[3941.16 --> 3942.24] Do you believe this? -[3945.44 --> 3947.00] This is our salvation. -[3947.44 --> 3947.88] It is through -[3947.88 --> 3948.36] the death -[3948.36 --> 3948.96] and resurrection -[3948.96 --> 3949.56] of Jesus -[3949.56 --> 3950.68] that we are called -[3950.68 --> 3951.58] his children. -[3952.84 --> 3954.32] Not by our own strength, -[3954.54 --> 3955.90] not by our own works -[3955.90 --> 3957.52] or our own wisdom -[3957.52 --> 3958.24] and knowledge, -[3958.52 --> 3958.76] right? -[3958.88 --> 3959.60] That's what he's -[3959.60 --> 3960.36] getting at here. -[3960.58 --> 3962.14] It is not by your own strength -[3962.14 --> 3962.78] that you are saved. -[3962.98 --> 3964.42] It is not by your own -[3964.42 --> 3965.92] scholarly smartness -[3965.92 --> 3967.14] that you are saved. -[3967.82 --> 3968.98] This is a gift -[3968.98 --> 3969.94] from God. -[3972.64 --> 3974.20] One of my favorite passages -[3974.20 --> 3975.16] in Ephesians 2, -[3975.46 --> 3976.62] for it is by grace -[3976.62 --> 3977.60] you have been saved -[3977.60 --> 3979.04] through faith. -[3979.28 --> 3980.26] And this is not -[3980.26 --> 3982.20] from your own works. -[3982.58 --> 3984.12] It is the gift of God. -[3986.12 --> 3988.44] That is our baptismal identity. -[3988.60 --> 3989.58] That is our salvation. -[3990.00 --> 3991.30] And we say amen to this. -[3992.04 --> 3992.48] Amen. -[3992.48 --> 3995.36] But we have to understand -[3995.36 --> 3997.50] even Paul does not stop there. -[3998.44 --> 3999.96] We were saved through grace, -[4000.64 --> 4001.36] by grace, -[4001.48 --> 4002.04] through faith. -[4003.08 --> 4003.90] Yes and amen. -[4004.04 --> 4004.62] All the way. -[4005.92 --> 4007.18] But then it's always -[4007.18 --> 4008.26] so that. -[4009.80 --> 4011.12] How does Paul end -[4011.12 --> 4012.14] this little passage -[4012.14 --> 4012.82] in Ephesians? -[4014.82 --> 4015.26] For. -[4015.82 --> 4016.22] For. -[4016.40 --> 4017.02] So that. -[4017.44 --> 4019.16] We are God's handiwork -[4019.16 --> 4020.44] created, again, -[4020.44 --> 4021.58] in Christ Jesus. -[4021.58 --> 4022.98] Everything is in His hands. -[4023.54 --> 4024.10] To do what? -[4024.84 --> 4026.42] To do good works. -[4026.54 --> 4027.58] It is not by works -[4027.58 --> 4028.12] you are saved. -[4028.38 --> 4029.16] You are saved -[4029.16 --> 4030.06] so that -[4030.06 --> 4031.12] you can do -[4031.12 --> 4031.94] the good works -[4031.94 --> 4033.28] that God has prepared -[4033.28 --> 4034.12] in advance -[4034.12 --> 4035.12] for us to do. -[4035.80 --> 4037.50] Everything is in His hands. -[4038.32 --> 4039.20] And as we -[4039.20 --> 4040.32] are invited -[4040.32 --> 4041.42] to be His disciples, -[4041.64 --> 4042.60] we are now equipped -[4042.60 --> 4043.50] by the Holy Spirit -[4043.50 --> 4044.88] to do the good works -[4044.88 --> 4045.66] that He has prepared -[4045.66 --> 4046.20] in advance -[4046.20 --> 4047.26] for us to do. -[4047.26 --> 4050.14] That now enlightens us -[4050.14 --> 4051.70] for this last question. -[4052.12 --> 4053.24] How exactly -[4053.24 --> 4054.90] is Jesus' yoke -[4054.90 --> 4056.04] easy and His burden -[4056.04 --> 4056.44] light? -[4056.80 --> 4058.26] It doesn't feel -[4058.26 --> 4059.24] that way all the time. -[4060.08 --> 4060.84] To be disciples -[4060.84 --> 4061.36] of Jesus -[4061.36 --> 4062.96] actually put us -[4062.96 --> 4063.92] in the face of -[4063.92 --> 4065.84] a lot of spiritual -[4065.84 --> 4066.32] battles, -[4066.60 --> 4067.58] even persecution, -[4068.22 --> 4069.84] all across the globe. -[4070.32 --> 4071.34] So how is this -[4071.34 --> 4072.02] good news? -[4072.36 --> 4073.76] How is Jesus' -[4073.76 --> 4074.96] yoke easy -[4074.96 --> 4076.06] for us? -[4076.06 --> 4076.74] How? -[4079.38 --> 4080.48] From the good news, -[4080.56 --> 4081.22] from God's word, -[4081.30 --> 4081.92] I suggest -[4081.92 --> 4083.56] the answer is -[4083.56 --> 4084.56] is that -[4084.56 --> 4085.42] we take on -[4085.42 --> 4086.54] Jesus' yoke. -[4086.64 --> 4087.52] That's the key. -[4088.22 --> 4089.24] We take on -[4089.24 --> 4090.46] the yoke of Christ. -[4090.58 --> 4091.38] That's the invitation. -[4092.20 --> 4092.70] And notice, -[4092.86 --> 4094.18] it's not to take on -[4094.18 --> 4095.14] our own yoke -[4095.14 --> 4096.46] that is now strengthened -[4096.46 --> 4097.30] and made better -[4097.30 --> 4097.84] or something. -[4098.36 --> 4099.16] Jesus does not -[4099.16 --> 4099.98] invite us to say, -[4100.08 --> 4100.26] alright, -[4100.50 --> 4101.78] put on your yokes again. -[4102.04 --> 4102.76] I'm just going to -[4102.76 --> 4103.70] strengthen that yoke -[4103.70 --> 4104.68] and make it easier -[4104.68 --> 4105.12] or lighter, -[4105.12 --> 4106.40] but it's your yoke. -[4106.54 --> 4107.34] Put on that yoke -[4107.34 --> 4108.12] and then continue -[4108.12 --> 4108.78] on the work. -[4109.30 --> 4109.56] No. -[4109.88 --> 4110.56] The invitation -[4110.56 --> 4111.60] that Jesus extends -[4111.60 --> 4112.18] to us -[4112.18 --> 4113.10] and to the people -[4113.10 --> 4113.88] listening here, -[4113.94 --> 4114.40] he says, -[4114.68 --> 4116.58] take on my yoke -[4116.58 --> 4117.72] for it is easy -[4117.72 --> 4118.52] and my burden -[4118.52 --> 4119.04] is light. -[4119.90 --> 4121.00] I am the way, -[4121.08 --> 4121.44] the truth, -[4121.50 --> 4121.98] and the life. -[4122.36 --> 4123.28] I am the way -[4123.28 --> 4124.78] to real flourishing, -[4125.20 --> 4126.16] real blessing, -[4126.58 --> 4128.50] and real rest. -[4128.50 --> 4134.44] this is why -[4134.44 --> 4135.56] Jesus uses -[4135.56 --> 4137.10] a work tool -[4137.10 --> 4138.72] for this image. -[4139.16 --> 4140.34] Not a chair, -[4140.62 --> 4141.30] not a bed, -[4141.42 --> 4142.90] not a nice lawn chair -[4142.90 --> 4143.38] or something. -[4143.62 --> 4145.04] He uses a yoke -[4145.04 --> 4145.96] to teach us. -[4147.84 --> 4149.12] Jesus is showing us -[4149.12 --> 4149.86] that obedience -[4149.86 --> 4151.12] to his teachings, -[4151.50 --> 4153.40] to learn from him -[4153.40 --> 4155.04] and to do life -[4155.04 --> 4155.72] with him -[4155.72 --> 4158.16] leads to real rest, -[4158.50 --> 4159.62] leads to real Sabbath. -[4161.02 --> 4162.36] We look for that -[4162.36 --> 4164.06] all in our lives, -[4164.24 --> 4165.22] wherever it may be. -[4165.50 --> 4166.38] We try to find -[4166.38 --> 4167.26] the right yokes, -[4167.74 --> 4168.70] the right things -[4168.70 --> 4169.82] to give us rest. -[4169.94 --> 4170.64] We really, -[4171.00 --> 4172.78] desperately desire rest -[4172.78 --> 4174.48] because that's how -[4174.48 --> 4175.24] we were created. -[4175.24 --> 4177.80] But Jesus is saying, -[4178.88 --> 4179.86] I am the only way -[4179.86 --> 4181.02] you find that rest. -[4182.14 --> 4183.20] And how do you do it? -[4183.24 --> 4184.18] You put on my yoke. -[4184.70 --> 4185.64] My yoke. -[4188.16 --> 4189.66] Jesus comes to restore -[4189.66 --> 4190.34] and to heal -[4190.34 --> 4192.04] and he is inviting us -[4192.04 --> 4192.92] into that life -[4192.92 --> 4195.58] to be his disciples, -[4195.96 --> 4197.24] to do life with him. -[4197.34 --> 4198.40] Not just learning -[4198.40 --> 4199.14] and putting more -[4199.14 --> 4200.08] religious information -[4200.08 --> 4200.72] in our heads, -[4200.88 --> 4202.24] but following him -[4202.24 --> 4203.36] with our whole lives -[4203.36 --> 4204.46] because we confess -[4204.46 --> 4205.92] that our whole lives -[4205.92 --> 4207.00] belong to him. -[4207.30 --> 4208.56] Absolutely everything -[4208.56 --> 4210.14] is in his hands. -[4211.00 --> 4211.90] And many times -[4211.90 --> 4212.88] this may seem -[4212.88 --> 4214.26] like a daunting task, -[4214.74 --> 4215.96] but Jesus extends -[4215.96 --> 4217.06] a personal invitation. -[4217.36 --> 4218.10] Come to me. -[4218.90 --> 4219.60] Come to me. -[4220.50 --> 4221.36] Jesus invites -[4221.36 --> 4222.72] those who are weary -[4222.72 --> 4223.58] and burdened, -[4223.82 --> 4224.70] those who are having -[4224.70 --> 4225.78] a hard time of it, -[4226.08 --> 4226.84] those for whom -[4226.84 --> 4228.50] life is hard work -[4228.50 --> 4230.18] and feel overwhelmed. -[4231.12 --> 4232.06] And to go a little deeper, -[4232.24 --> 4233.22] Jesus calls -[4233.22 --> 4234.06] to him, -[4234.20 --> 4234.90] those who are -[4234.90 --> 4235.96] even discouraged, -[4236.52 --> 4237.64] those who want -[4237.64 --> 4238.26] to be good, -[4239.26 --> 4241.80] who want to please God, -[4242.16 --> 4243.98] to love and serve others, -[4244.48 --> 4245.66] but many times -[4245.66 --> 4247.80] feel quite selfish, -[4248.40 --> 4250.22] quite un-up to the task, -[4250.70 --> 4251.68] quite inadequate, -[4252.18 --> 4253.22] and even feel like -[4253.22 --> 4254.30] failures at times. -[4254.30 --> 4258.12] And so to those -[4258.12 --> 4258.90] who are burdened -[4258.90 --> 4259.38] with guilt -[4259.38 --> 4260.36] and inadequacy, -[4261.12 --> 4261.82] Jesus now -[4261.82 --> 4262.44] appears -[4262.44 --> 4264.30] and promises, -[4264.54 --> 4265.22] first of all, -[4265.68 --> 4266.32] refreshment, -[4266.46 --> 4267.48] rest for our souls, -[4268.14 --> 4269.30] but then more importantly, -[4269.84 --> 4270.72] or just as important, -[4270.84 --> 4271.30] I should say, -[4271.68 --> 4273.22] equipment for carrying -[4273.22 --> 4274.16] our future burdens -[4274.16 --> 4274.70] and duties. -[4275.16 --> 4275.82] And that's why -[4275.82 --> 4276.86] this is good news. -[4277.66 --> 4278.24] We are called -[4278.24 --> 4278.90] to take on -[4278.90 --> 4279.78] his yoke. -[4279.78 --> 4282.50] And as I finish, -[4282.66 --> 4283.26] just to reinforce -[4283.26 --> 4283.76] this point -[4283.76 --> 4284.84] just a little bit further, -[4285.20 --> 4286.10] remember that image -[4286.10 --> 4286.68] of the yoke -[4286.68 --> 4287.82] that I started off with? -[4288.58 --> 4290.06] A yoke usually entails -[4290.06 --> 4290.90] how many oxen -[4290.90 --> 4291.54] pulling the cart? -[4292.36 --> 4293.44] It usually entails -[4293.44 --> 4294.52] two on each side. -[4295.26 --> 4296.60] So another reason -[4296.60 --> 4297.12] I think -[4297.12 --> 4298.20] that Jesus uses -[4298.20 --> 4299.68] a yoke -[4299.68 --> 4300.66] for this image, -[4301.02 --> 4301.76] for this teaching, -[4302.12 --> 4303.06] is because -[4303.06 --> 4303.96] the image -[4303.96 --> 4304.68] that we should get -[4304.68 --> 4305.26] is not just -[4305.26 --> 4305.86] putting something -[4305.86 --> 4306.88] on us to work. -[4307.84 --> 4308.64] Jesus is carrying -[4308.64 --> 4309.68] that yoke with us. -[4310.48 --> 4311.38] He's inviting us -[4311.38 --> 4312.38] to walk with him -[4312.38 --> 4313.30] step by step. -[4314.32 --> 4315.36] That's what leads -[4315.36 --> 4316.20] to real life -[4316.20 --> 4317.56] and real flourishing. -[4318.38 --> 4319.34] So we take on -[4319.34 --> 4319.76] the yoke -[4319.76 --> 4320.58] of our Lord Jesus, -[4320.96 --> 4321.82] becoming a witness -[4321.82 --> 4322.86] to his healing -[4322.86 --> 4324.34] and his restorative -[4324.34 --> 4325.22] work for the world, -[4325.62 --> 4326.70] even in our -[4326.70 --> 4327.76] sin-filled, -[4328.30 --> 4329.64] broken workplaces, -[4330.02 --> 4331.00] even when our -[4331.00 --> 4331.62] co-workers -[4331.62 --> 4332.70] are jerks sometimes, -[4333.04 --> 4333.78] even when our -[4333.78 --> 4334.60] work environment -[4334.60 --> 4335.60] is so toxic. -[4335.60 --> 4337.14] And throughout -[4337.14 --> 4338.10] the countless -[4338.10 --> 4339.20] conversations I had -[4339.20 --> 4339.90] with our young adults -[4339.90 --> 4340.46] at our church, -[4341.36 --> 4342.22] I haven't met -[4342.22 --> 4343.18] a single young adult -[4343.18 --> 4344.00] who tells me -[4344.00 --> 4345.10] my workplace -[4345.10 --> 4347.28] is not toxic. -[4348.30 --> 4348.40] Right? -[4349.28 --> 4350.72] In whatever shape -[4350.72 --> 4351.14] or manner, -[4351.30 --> 4352.04] every young adult -[4352.04 --> 4352.72] I talk to, -[4352.88 --> 4353.24] sadly, -[4353.72 --> 4354.26] says that -[4354.26 --> 4355.18] my workplace -[4355.18 --> 4356.06] is toxic. -[4358.44 --> 4359.46] But even -[4359.46 --> 4360.14] in that -[4360.14 --> 4361.32] broken environment, -[4362.60 --> 4362.82] right, -[4362.82 --> 4363.28] we're not -[4363.28 --> 4364.32] called to put -[4364.32 --> 4364.82] on the yokes -[4364.82 --> 4365.56] of our different -[4365.56 --> 4366.28] workplaces, -[4366.60 --> 4367.36] we are called -[4367.36 --> 4367.90] to put on -[4367.90 --> 4368.68] the yoke of Christ -[4368.68 --> 4369.72] who walks along -[4369.72 --> 4370.74] side by side -[4370.74 --> 4371.32] with us. -[4372.28 --> 4373.40] And in that way, -[4373.68 --> 4375.14] we have real hope -[4375.14 --> 4376.18] in Jesus -[4376.18 --> 4377.06] as our Savior -[4377.06 --> 4377.52] and Lord. -[4378.70 --> 4379.44] And through that -[4379.44 --> 4380.10] hope and that -[4380.10 --> 4380.88] equipping of -[4380.88 --> 4382.18] the Spirit now sent -[4382.18 --> 4383.44] and fills us -[4383.44 --> 4384.82] and dwells within us, -[4385.22 --> 4386.32] we can be that -[4386.32 --> 4387.50] light that we -[4387.50 --> 4388.44] prayed about, -[4388.60 --> 4389.72] that we know about. -[4389.72 --> 4390.72] We can be that -[4390.72 --> 4391.72] light even -[4391.72 --> 4393.28] in our workplaces. -[4393.96 --> 4394.44] And that's the -[4394.44 --> 4394.90] invitation. -[4395.40 --> 4395.88] And that's the -[4395.88 --> 4396.92] blessing that Jesus -[4396.92 --> 4398.56] gifts us -[4398.56 --> 4399.40] through His Word -[4399.40 --> 4399.74] today. -[4400.60 --> 4400.82] Amen? -[4401.80 --> 4402.36] Amen. -[4402.98 --> 4403.74] And so just like -[4403.74 --> 4404.36] the psalmist, -[4405.26 --> 4406.12] we end with this, -[4406.20 --> 4407.06] just like the psalmist, -[4407.16 --> 4408.22] the famous Psalm 23, -[4408.74 --> 4409.80] the Lord is my -[4409.80 --> 4410.08] shepherd. -[4410.58 --> 4411.54] I lack nothing. -[4412.68 --> 4413.34] And the important -[4413.34 --> 4413.90] gospel, -[4414.38 --> 4414.88] the good news -[4414.88 --> 4415.66] from this psalm, -[4415.96 --> 4417.26] is that the Lord -[4417.26 --> 4418.36] is my shepherd. -[4418.86 --> 4419.48] Not me, -[4419.72 --> 4420.68] not us, -[4420.90 --> 4421.82] the Lord is. -[4422.38 --> 4423.18] And so we lack -[4423.18 --> 4423.58] nothing. -[4423.90 --> 4424.96] Because He, -[4425.38 --> 4426.28] and He alone, -[4426.56 --> 4427.08] is the shepherd -[4427.08 --> 4427.86] of our lives. -[4429.38 --> 4430.12] Let's pray. -[4436.12 --> 4437.02] Loving Father, -[4437.78 --> 4438.54] we thank You -[4438.54 --> 4439.28] for the good news -[4439.28 --> 4439.78] this morning, -[4440.32 --> 4441.66] that You invite us -[4441.66 --> 4442.42] to take on -[4442.42 --> 4443.08] Your yoke. -[4444.68 --> 4445.18] Lord, -[4445.22 --> 4445.74] I just want to -[4445.74 --> 4446.32] name that -[4446.32 --> 4447.48] many times -[4447.48 --> 4449.22] being Your -[4449.22 --> 4449.92] disciple may -[4449.92 --> 4450.58] not seem -[4450.58 --> 4451.32] so easy. -[4452.50 --> 4453.54] And many times -[4453.54 --> 4454.44] this burden -[4454.44 --> 4456.02] to be a light -[4456.02 --> 4456.56] for the world -[4456.56 --> 4457.72] may not feel -[4457.72 --> 4458.36] so light. -[4459.90 --> 4460.80] But thank You, -[4460.90 --> 4460.98] Lord, -[4461.04 --> 4461.74] for the good news -[4461.74 --> 4462.58] and reminding us, -[4462.72 --> 4462.82] Lord, -[4462.88 --> 4463.74] that we belong -[4463.74 --> 4464.48] to You, -[4464.96 --> 4465.90] that everything -[4465.90 --> 4467.10] is in Your hands, -[4467.22 --> 4467.90] not ours. -[4469.06 --> 4469.82] Thank You -[4469.82 --> 4470.92] for teaching us -[4470.92 --> 4474.06] that You, -[4474.06 --> 4474.84] that You, -[4474.84 --> 4474.88] that You -[4474.88 --> 4476.12] require humility -[4476.12 --> 4476.96] and mercy. -[4477.92 --> 4479.18] Not pride, -[4479.60 --> 4480.50] not our own -[4480.50 --> 4481.16] ingenuity, -[4481.42 --> 4482.30] not our own -[4482.30 --> 4483.54] wisdom -[4483.54 --> 4484.94] or our own -[4484.94 --> 4485.76] smartness, -[4486.26 --> 4487.62] but You require -[4487.62 --> 4488.54] humility. -[4489.54 --> 4490.82] And You want us -[4490.82 --> 4491.94] to bow before You -[4491.94 --> 4493.16] and depend on You -[4493.16 --> 4493.90] because You -[4493.90 --> 4495.00] and You alone -[4495.00 --> 4496.04] are our Savior. -[4496.04 --> 4496.16] Savior. -[4497.34 --> 4498.40] We thank You -[4498.40 --> 4499.64] that Your Holy Spirit -[4499.64 --> 4500.86] dwells within us -[4500.86 --> 4502.00] and guides us -[4502.00 --> 4503.18] every step of the way -[4503.18 --> 4504.66] to equip us -[4504.66 --> 4506.02] to take on -[4506.02 --> 4507.24] the sometimes -[4507.24 --> 4508.30] daunting task -[4508.30 --> 4509.62] to live out -[4509.62 --> 4510.44] as Your disciples. -[4511.22 --> 4512.12] We thank You -[4512.12 --> 4512.92] again for this -[4512.92 --> 4513.46] good news, -[4513.60 --> 4513.76] Lord. -[4515.14 --> 4516.22] May Your equipping -[4516.22 --> 4517.54] and Your blessing -[4517.54 --> 4519.14] overflow -[4519.14 --> 4520.48] through our lives -[4520.48 --> 4521.42] even in this -[4521.42 --> 4522.20] upcoming week. -[4523.20 --> 4523.82] Thank You -[4523.82 --> 4524.68] and all glory -[4524.68 --> 4525.20] to You, -[4525.32 --> 4525.54] Lord. -[4526.00 --> 4526.72] In Jesus' name -[4526.72 --> 4527.10] we pray. -[4527.84 --> 4528.24] Amen. -[4528.24 --> 4528.36] Amen. -[4554.68 --> 4557.46] Come, -[4557.46 --> 4557.92] O! -[4561.74 --> 4562.38] Come, -[4562.60 --> 4563.08] come, -[4563.28 --> 4563.34] come, -[4563.34 --> 4564.12] come, -[4564.28 --> 4564.34] come, -[4564.70 --> 4566.02] come, -[4566.84 --> 4568.16] come, -[4568.16 --> 4568.36] come, -[4568.36 --> 4568.66] come, -[4568.66 --> 4569.52] run, -[4569.52 --> 4571.74] let your rescue begin. -[4572.42 --> 4573.02] Come, -[4573.18 --> 4574.36] find your mercy, -[4574.96 --> 4575.66] O sinner, -[4576.08 --> 4576.50] come, -[4576.50 --> 4577.22] kneel. -[4577.70 --> 4579.72] Earth has no sorrow -[4579.72 --> 4580.92] that heaven -[4580.92 --> 4581.72] can't heal. -[4582.38 --> 4584.64] Earth has no sorrow -[4584.64 --> 4587.64] that heaven can't heal. -[4590.18 --> 4593.26] Lay down your burdens, -[4595.32 --> 4598.46] lay down your shame. -[4600.26 --> 4602.92] All who are broken, -[4605.06 --> 4607.46] lift up your face. -[4609.46 --> 4613.46] O wanderer, come home, -[4614.64 --> 4617.82] you're not too far. -[4619.72 --> 4622.18] So lay down your hurt, -[4622.58 --> 4624.76] lay down your heart, -[4625.04 --> 4626.98] all as you are. -[4635.32 --> 4637.88] There's hope for the hopeless, -[4638.52 --> 4640.58] and all those who stray. -[4640.84 --> 4643.04] Come sit at the table, -[4643.04 --> 4645.32] who takes the grace. -[4645.72 --> 4647.72] There's rest for the weary, -[4648.54 --> 4650.58] rest that endures. -[4651.00 --> 4652.78] Earth has no sorrow -[4652.78 --> 4655.58] that heaven can cure. -[4658.08 --> 4660.96] Lay down your burdens, -[4661.06 --> 4665.58] lay down your shame. -[4665.58 --> 4670.64] All who are broken, -[4670.64 --> 4675.12] lift up your face. -[4677.12 --> 4681.26] O wanderer, come home, -[4682.26 --> 4684.92] you're not too far. -[4687.14 --> 4689.32] Lay down your hurt, -[4689.32 --> 4691.78] lay down your heart, -[4691.78 --> 4695.86] come as you are. -[4695.86 --> 4701.28] Come as you are. -[4701.28 --> 4706.24] fall in His arms, -[4706.24 --> 4709.24] come as you are. -[4712.02 --> 4714.66] There's joy for the morning, -[4715.16 --> 4717.34] will still be still. -[4717.34 --> 4719.78] Earth has no sorrow -[4719.78 --> 4722.34] that heaven can't heal. -[4722.68 --> 4724.78] Earth has no sorrow -[4724.78 --> 4727.86] that heaven can't heal. -[4727.86 --> 4732.92] So lay down your burdens, -[4732.92 --> 4737.40] lay down your shame. -[4737.40 --> 4742.46] all who are broken, -[4742.46 --> 4743.46] all who are broken, -[4743.46 --> 4748.46] lift up your own pace. -[4748.46 --> 4753.46] O wanderer, come home, -[4753.46 --> 4756.96] you're not too far. -[4756.96 --> 4762.02] So lay down your heart, -[4762.02 --> 4763.02] lay down your heart, -[4763.02 --> 4763.90] lay down your heart, -[4764.30 --> 4766.76] come as you are. -[4773.76 --> 4775.90] Come as you are. -[4778.60 --> 4781.40] Come as you are. -[4781.40 --> 4786.46] Come as you are. -[4796.46 --> 4798.60] And so receive this blessing -[4798.60 --> 4802.30] as we are sent to be His disciples, -[4802.62 --> 4804.68] to be the light for a world -[4804.68 --> 4805.48] that's in darkness, -[4805.84 --> 4807.18] that is in desperate need -[4807.18 --> 4808.52] of a Savior as well. -[4808.52 --> 4812.32] May our Lord Jesus Christ Himself -[4812.32 --> 4814.22] and God our Father, -[4814.72 --> 4815.78] who loved us -[4815.78 --> 4817.18] and by His grace -[4817.18 --> 4819.36] gave us eternal encouragement -[4819.36 --> 4820.26] and good hope. -[4820.84 --> 4822.70] May He encourage your hearts -[4822.70 --> 4824.22] and strengthen you -[4824.22 --> 4825.34] and equip you -[4825.34 --> 4827.70] in every good deed and word. -[4828.08 --> 4829.24] And all God's people said, -[4829.84 --> 4830.44] Amen. -[4830.44 --> 4830.56] Amen. -[4838.52 --> 4858.64] Be like I got a favorite hand, -[4858.82 --> 4860.80] be me by your hand, -[4860.90 --> 4863.74] you are strong and wise. -[4863.74 --> 4867.62] I want to trust in you -[4867.62 --> 4869.70] and in all I do -[4869.70 --> 4872.74] bring you honor and praise. -[4873.18 --> 4876.12] Oh, I love you -[4876.12 --> 4881.54] great and mighty pain. -[4881.54 --> 4884.26] You are faithful -[4884.26 --> 4888.70] through the ages -[4888.70 --> 4891.96] you never change. -[4895.28 --> 4899.14] My God in the dark of night -[4899.14 --> 4901.62] said I'll fear to fight you -[4901.62 --> 4903.72] our hope and truth. -[4904.88 --> 4908.10] I want to trust in you -[4908.10 --> 4910.14] and in all I do -[4910.14 --> 4913.06] bring you honor and praise. -[4913.50 --> 4916.50] Oh, I love you -[4916.50 --> 4921.50] great and mighty pain -[4921.50 --> 4924.60] you are faithful -[4924.60 --> 4929.02] through the ages -[4929.02 --> 4932.50] you never change. -[4935.50 --> 4939.56] Be my guide for the road ahead -[4939.56 --> 4941.74] should I feel misled -[4941.74 --> 4944.44] you are just and good. -[4944.44 --> 4948.60] I want to trust in you -[4948.60 --> 4950.66] and in all I do -[4950.66 --> 4953.44] bring you honor and praise. -[4953.44 --> 4957.44] Oh, I love you -[4957.44 --> 4961.44] great and mighty pain -[4961.44 --> 4965.44] you are faithful -[4965.44 --> 4969.44] through the ages -[4969.44 --> 4971.44] you never change. -[4971.44 --> 4972.44] God bless you -[4972.44 --> 4973.44] love you -[4973.44 --> 4974.44] love you -[4974.44 --> 4975.44] love you -[4975.44 --> 4978.44] great and mighty pain -[4978.44 --> 4982.44] you are faithful -[4982.44 --> 4986.44] through the ages -[4986.44 --> 4988.44] you never change. -[4988.44 --> 4990.44] You are faithful -[4990.44 --> 4992.44] through the ages -[4992.44 --> 4994.44] you never change. -[4994.44 --> 4999.44] Jah -[4999.62 --> 5000.44] for your grace -[5000.44 --> 5002.44] you are faithful -[5002.44 --> 5003.44] and through the ages -[5003.44 --> 5004.44] you are faithful -[5004.50 --> 5005.44] you are faithful -[5005.44 --> 5006.44] and you are faithful -[5006.44 --> 5007.44] to my sin -[5007.44 --> 5007.92] guide us -[5007.92 --> 5009.44] every moment -[5009.44 --> 5010.78] you must -[5010.78 --> 5012.16] help him -[5012.16 --> 5013.44] come to me -[5013.44 --> 5014.44] the meaning of honesty -[5014.44 --> 5015.44] these days -[5015.44 --> 5017.44] have have appreciated -[5017.44 --> 5018.44] his you are faithful -[5018.44 --> 5019.48] you and your turn -[5019.48 --> 5020.44] every element -[5020.44 --> 5050.42] Thank you. -[5050.44 --> 5051.52] Thank you. -[5080.44 --> 5110.42] Thank you. -[5110.44 --> 5140.42] Thank you. -[5140.44 --> 5170.42] Thank you. -[5170.44 --> 5200.42] Thank you. -[5200.44 --> 5230.42] Thank you. -[5230.44 --> 5260.42] Thank you. -[5260.44 --> 5290.42] Thank you. -[5290.44 --> 5320.42] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, October 20, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, October 20, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 67d8fb84063a25582e2f0453e4e1882485376813..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, October 20, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,142 +0,0 @@ -• The pastor is aware of the recent flooding in the area and offers help with cleanup efforts -• Announcements for upcoming church events are made, including a worship conference on October 26th -• A Christianity Explored group continues on Thursday, and a Safe Church training is scheduled for Tuesday -• The church hosts various programs and groups, including HCBC (youth), Heidelberg Catechism reading group (adults) -• Introduction to the worship service, including a greeting in the name of God and an invitation to extend that greeting to others -• Worship service -• Psalm 100 mentioned -• God's love and salvation through Jesus Christ -• Freedom from sin and addiction -• The power of the cross and Jesus waiting to forgive -• Praise and worship music -• Singing and music -• Psalm readings from ancient gates to holy places -• Worship and praise of Jesus -• Prayer for forgiveness and mercy -• Assurance of God's compassion and love -• Scripture reading from Psalm 103 -• Thankfulness and gratefulness in prayer -• Praise and worship songs -• Worship songs and chants -• Reading from Proverbs 14:31 about helping the poor -• Introduction to Gateway of Hope ministry -• Prayer and singing about God's glory and Jesus' name -• Musical segment featuring lyrics about Jesus Christ, his name, and its power -• Discussing the name of Jesus -• Children's discussion about what makes them happy (scoring a goal in soccer, playing outside) -• Introduction to learning about Joseph and his characteristics -• Big idea: God is with us even when things don't look good -• Prayer time led by an elder, Dave -• Congregation prayer and thanksgiving for various aspects of church life and community -• Prayers for a congregation member diagnosed with breast cancer and her family -• Prayers for students, including those studying elsewhere, for academic success and contribution to Christian community -• Prayers for shut-ins and those unable to attend church due to physical limitations -• Prayers for recovery from flooding and heavy rain damage -• Prayers for troubled war zones around the world, particularly in Israel, Gaza, Lebanon, and Ukraine -• Reading of Genesis 37:12-35, a story about Joseph being sold into slavery by his brothers -• The sovereignty of God and its implications on human experience -• The tension between God's sovereignty and human suffering -• The concept of "God hints" in biblical narratives to reveal God's presence amidst difficulties -• The story of Joseph as a case study for finding God in times of trial and hardship -• The idea that God's hiddenness can be a challenge to faith, but not necessarily incompatible with His sovereignty -• The importance of focusing on God's promises and vision for a brighter tomorrow -• The impact of what we choose to focus our minds on in enduring suffering and thriving in trial -• The concept of "meanwhile" from verse 36 of the text, which highlights the idea that something else is happening alongside Joseph's story -• The parallel between Jacob's experience and the reminder that even in darkness, God is sovereign over all creation -• The nature of God's rule and reign in the world -• The challenge of seeing or understanding how God is working, but knowing that he always is -• The idea that the absence of evidence does not mean God is absent -• An analogy to complex math being unknowable to an individual, but still complete and perfect -• A caution against assuming God's absence due to lack of visibility or understanding -• The role of the deceiver, tempter, or Satan in challenging faith -• Joseph's story as an example of external challenges to faith -• External challenges come from people like Joseph's brothers who mock and try to undermine one's faith -• Internal challenges come from within oneself and can manifest as doubts and questions about God's presence and work -• Examples of external voices that challenge faith, such as Job's wife trying to get him to give up hope and curse God -• The existence of people who are hopeless and only feel better about their hopelessness, implying a broader societal context of despair. -• Desire for community is perverted and corrupted by sin -• We bring others into our corruption and project hopelessness and nihilism onto them -• We can perpetuate this cycle without external influence, including Satan -• We are capable of being our own challenge to remembering God's promises -• External and internal temptations and forces contribute to forgetting God's promises -• In times of pain and suffering, it is easy to forget God's promises and feel abandoned or unlovable -• The speaker discusses the idea that people often feel a sense of abandonment by God when they need him most -• The speaker describes this as a disquieting symptom and suggests that it may be a sign of spiritual danger rather than a lack of faith in God -• The speaker notes that people who have experienced great happiness or prosperity can become complacent and forget to seek God's presence -• The speaker emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with gospel visions and promises of God, especially during times of trouble or chaos -• The speaker also highlights the need to wrestle with the concept of God's sovereignty in relation to human suffering -• The importance of remembering and focusing on God beyond current circumstances -• The concept of "meantime" or "meanwhile", referring to the activity of a sovereign God beyond present time and circumstance -• Reference to the story of Joseph as an example of this concept -• Introduction to biblical history, specifically the story of Abraham, to answer questions about the Ishmaelites and Midianites -• Keturah and the Ishmaelites are descendants of Abraham through Hagar -• The forefathers of this group are half-brothers and therefore uncles to Jacob -• This group is second or third cousins to Joseph and his brothers -• God uses these people for His purposes despite their involvement in questionable activities -• Ishmael's birth was a result of Sarah trying to take control of God's promise -• Ishmael would have been considered a secondary heir, but Isaac's birth changes his status -• Ishmael and Hagar are eventually rejected by Abraham and cast out -• Genesis 21 story of Abraham and Isaac -• God's election and ordination of Isaac as the chosen one -• Ishmael's role as an outsider, but still receiving a promise from God -• God's common grace extending to all people, including Ishmael -• Hagar and Ishmael's journey in the wilderness and their encounter with God -• Connection between Abraham, Ishmael, and the family's relationship with Egypt -• God's provision for Joseph and Israel during the famine is connected to events from earlier generations -• God works on multiple levels and timelines simultaneously -• God is not bound by time or circumstance in His actions and plans -• Sovereignty means that God knows and ordains all things -• Everything that happens is a result of God's active and passive will working together to accomplish his purposes -• Time is not relevant to God, who stands above and apart from it -• The past, present, and future are eternal and current to God's self -• God's actions in the present moment may be preparing us for what He will do in the future -• God's activity in grandparents' lives may have been for the benefit of grandkids -• God works all things for the good of those who love him, according to Romans 8 -• All things means past, present, and future events in one's life and the lives of others -• The same principle is true of people leading up to and flowing out of one's life -• Historical examples include Joseph's journey to Egypt and the Israelites' journey through Numbers -• The Israelites are commanded by God to treat the Midianites as enemies and kill them -• Gideon led the Israelites against the Midianites in a war that lasted seven years -• Despite being enemies, God used the Midianites to accomplish the saving of his people -• Jacob is suffering and mourning the loss of his son, refusing comfort from others -• Jacob's experience of mourning and pain serves as a backdrop for the story of Joseph -• The Midianites sold Joseph to Potiphar in Egypt -• God is placing Joseph in the right place to save his people when the famine comes -• Joseph rises from Potiphar's house to Pharaoh's house and becomes second in command over all of Egypt -• God uses Joseph for the saving of many lives -• The story began with Abraham's children, Ishmael and Keturah -• The sovereign God was before even time began -• God's plan and sovereignty from before time began -• God's active involvement in the present and past -• Hope and assurance for the future through God's victory -• The way to endure suffering with a changed perspective due to understanding of God's plan -• Bible passage: 1 Peter (specifically, not specified) -• The blood of Christ is precious and sinless -• Jesus was chosen before the creation of the world to deal with human suffering and pain -• God's plan to save humanity is through Jesus Christ, who became sin for us so we might become the righteousness of God -• Through faith in Jesus, our sins are forgiven and we are raised to eternal life -• The activity of God in the world is centered on Jesus Christ, who was determined before creation itself to be the ultimate means of redemption -• God's sovereignty and goodness in all circumstances -• Remembering God is always present and active, even if not seen or believed -• Trusting in God's power to do something with one's current situation -• Living as if God's presence and truth are real, regardless of understanding -• The importance of worship and prayer in remembering God's presence -• God's presence and protection in difficult times -• The importance of remembering and honoring what God has done -• The idea that life is not one's own, but purchased with a price -• Asking for spiritual guidance and support from God's people -• Prayer and surrender to God's will -• Standing together as believers and responding to challenges with faith -• Discussion of spiritual themes, including God's presence and peace -• Recitation of the hymn "It Is Well with My Soul" -• References to trials and challenges in life -• Quotes from a scripture or devotional text -• Talk about God's protection and guidance throughout life -• Exhortation to trust in God's love and plan, despite difficulties -• Preparation of the way for the Lord -• The coming of the Lord, riding on clouds and shining like the sun -• Salvation and the days of His being young -• The tribe's absence and lack of fulfillment of expectations -• The harvest and laborers leading the people -• Proclamation of God's word and the holy crown -• Calling out to God in worship and prayer \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, October 20, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, October 20, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 90013e4c6aaae4296354e3ec857b63c0952022d5..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, October 20, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2896 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 5.42] God, I'm asking, could this be your plan? -[5.90 --> 10.72] Sin has taken hold of this whole land. -[11.14 --> 16.52] Will you not say anything else to me? -[16.52 --> 30.96] He said, where were you the day that I measured? -[31.86 --> 41.68] Sung the bass and stretched the line over all the earth and carved out its cornerstone. -[46.52 --> 48.02] TJT -[76.52 --> 78.52] You -[106.52 --> 108.52] You -[136.52 --> 138.52] You -[166.52 --> 168.52] You -[196.52 --> 198.52] You -[226.52 --> 228.52] You -[228.52 --> 230.52] You -[230.52 --> 232.52] You -[232.52 --> 234.52] You -[234.52 --> 236.52] You -[236.52 --> 238.52] You -[240.52 --> 242.52] You -[244.52 --> 246.52] Good morning, how we doing? -[246.52 --> 255.52] Okay, welcome to worship special welcome if you are a guest among us. -[255.52 --> 261.52] It's my privilege to lead this morning. My name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors here at Emanuel. -[261.52 --> 269.52] And I am very mindful of the fact that we're just coming out of an atmospheric river and flooding and the like. -[269.52 --> 275.52] And so I wanted to just make sure that you guys are all aware and that everyone here is aware. -[275.52 --> 284.52] But if you have like problems with flooding or if there's cleanup or things like that that you that happens on your property or where you live after something. -[284.52 --> 288.52] We at church here want to help. -[288.52 --> 292.52] And in fact, that's exactly why our deacons exist. -[292.52 --> 302.52] And so if you need help with something with cleanup or the like, please contact the church either myself or one of the other pastors or the office or any of the deacons. -[302.52 --> 309.52] They would love to help provide resources and clean up in the midst of that. -[309.52 --> 314.52] Before we begin our worship, I just want to share a couple announcements with you. -[314.52 --> 324.52] First of all, after worship today, where we usually gather in the back or in here for a time of fellowship and connecting together. -[324.52 --> 328.52] Today, we're going to do that, but we're going to do it with cake. -[328.52 --> 331.52] There we go. Thank you. -[331.52 --> 342.52] We're going to do it with cake because last weekend, Paul and Leslie Cool celebrated their 40th anniversary and they would like to share that with us as well. -[342.52 --> 346.52] And so after service today, there's cake. -[346.52 --> 347.52] It'll be over there. -[347.52 --> 350.52] I don't know how much cake there is. -[350.52 --> 352.52] So if you're quick, you'll get a piece. -[352.52 --> 354.52] If you're less quick, maybe you won't. -[354.52 --> 365.52] And then as we move into this week, just a quick note that tonight at church is HCBC for the youth. -[365.52 --> 369.52] That's like a catechism church education program. -[369.52 --> 376.52] And simultaneous to that, there's a Heidelberg Catechism reading group for adults. -[376.52 --> 377.52] That's going to happen. -[377.52 --> 380.52] Both of those are at 7 p.m. here at church. -[380.52 --> 386.52] If you're interested, we encourage you to come out and stick around for that conversation together. -[386.52 --> 392.52] On Thursday, the Christianity Explored group is going to be continuing. -[392.52 --> 395.52] And so if you have questions about that, you can grab me after service. -[395.52 --> 405.52] And then lastly, we've been announcing for the past couple of weeks a worship conference that we're hosting coming up on Saturday, on October 26th. -[405.52 --> 408.52] And there's still more room to sign up for that. -[408.52 --> 415.52] And so if you haven't signed up for that, there's a QR code on the welcome desk back there, the Lift Up Your Voice worship conference. -[415.52 --> 418.52] That will take you right to the sign up page. -[418.52 --> 419.52] We'll get you there. -[419.52 --> 432.52] But what we wanted to do as well, even if you don't join for the afternoon event of the worship conference, we have a chance to gather together for an evening of worship. -[432.52 --> 439.52] And so the worship conference participants and the speakers are going to lead us in a time of worship together. -[439.52 --> 442.52] And so we're inviting everyone to come to that. -[442.52 --> 447.52] And that part of the event starts at 7 p.m. on Saturday. -[447.52 --> 448.52] 7 p.m. on Saturday. -[448.52 --> 453.52] There's going to be a worship service here connected to that. -[453.52 --> 456.52] I think I've checked all my boxes. -[456.52 --> 458.52] Tuesday, Safe Church. -[458.52 --> 460.52] I didn't check my boxes. -[460.52 --> 470.52] If you are signed up for or haven't yet signed up for the Safe Church training, there's another one happening on Tuesday. -[470.52 --> 482.52] And just a reminder to all our volunteers here, if you are volunteering with children or youth or vulnerable populations, you are required to do this training once every three years. -[482.52 --> 488.52] I've heard good things about this particular training, and it is a good time to get together. -[488.52 --> 491.52] And so if you have questions about that, you can talk to Rachel or Kim. -[491.52 --> 501.52] I don't know if Kim is here today or not, but Rachel will answer all your questions about what that looks like on Tuesday here at church at 7 p.m. -[501.52 --> 502.52] There we go. -[502.52 --> 503.52] Anyone else? -[503.52 --> 505.52] Mo, we're taking suggestions for announcements? -[505.52 --> 506.52] No? -[506.52 --> 511.52] Can we stand together as God ushers us into his presence for worship? -[511.52 --> 515.52] We gather in the presence of God. -[515.52 --> 523.52] We gather together as his people to sing his praises, and he meets us here. -[523.52 --> 526.52] We mark that presence of God in two ways. -[526.52 --> 531.52] One, by receiving his greeting, and then by extending that greeting to the people around us. -[531.52 --> 536.52] So after I greet you in the name of the Lord, I invite you to greet those around you in his name as well. -[536.52 --> 538.52] Receive the greeting of our God. -[538.52 --> 549.52] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, Son, and our Savior, through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[549.52 --> 550.52] Amen. -[550.52 --> 551.52] Amen. -[551.52 --> 552.52] . -[552.52 --> 554.52] . -[554.52 --> 556.52] . -[556.52 --> 558.52] . -[558.52 --> 559.52] . -[559.52 --> 560.52] . -[579.52 --> 589.52] . -[589.52 --> 591.52] Good morning, everyone. -[591.52 --> 598.52] Today, as we gather together to worship, let's remember the words of Psalm 100. -[598.52 --> 599.52] . -[599.52 --> 600.52] . -[600.52 --> 601.52] . -[601.52 --> 602.52] . -[602.52 --> 603.52] . -[603.52 --> 604.52] . -[604.52 --> 605.52] . -[605.52 --> 606.52] . -[606.52 --> 607.52] . -[607.52 --> 608.52] . -[608.52 --> 609.52] . -[609.52 --> 618.52] . -[618.52 --> 619.52] . -[619.52 --> 620.52] . -[620.52 --> 621.52] . -[621.52 --> 622.52] . -[622.52 --> 623.52] . -[623.52 --> 624.52] . -[624.52 --> 625.52] . -[625.52 --> 626.52] . -[626.52 --> 627.52] . -[627.52 --> 640.52] . -[640.52 --> 641.52] . -[641.52 --> 642.52] . -[642.52 --> 643.52] . -[643.52 --> 644.52] . -[644.52 --> 645.52] . -[645.52 --> 646.52] . -[646.52 --> 647.52] . -[647.52 --> 648.52] . -[648.52 --> 649.52] . -[649.52 --> 650.52] . -[650.52 --> 651.52] . -[651.52 --> 652.52] . -[652.52 --> 653.52] . -[653.52 --> 670.52] . -[670.52 --> 671.52] . -[671.52 --> 672.52] . -[672.52 --> 673.52] . -[673.52 --> 674.52] . -[674.52 --> 675.52] . -[675.52 --> 676.52] . -[676.52 --> 677.52] . -[677.52 --> 678.52] . -[678.52 --> 679.52] . -[679.52 --> 680.52] . -[680.52 --> 689.52] . -[689.52 --> 692.52] . -[696.52 --> 697.52] . -[697.52 --> 699.52] . -[699.52 --> 700.52] . -[700.52 --> 701.52] . -[701.52 --> 702.52] . -[702.52 --> 703.52] . -[703.52 --> 704.52] . -[704.52 --> 706.32] . -[706.32 --> 709.50] . -[709.50 --> 712.50] With open arms -[713.16 --> 717.92] God so loud -[717.92 --> 720.54] The road that He gave us -[720.54 --> 722.58] Is one and all -[722.58 --> 725.26] The Son to save us -[725.26 --> 728.40] Whoever believes in Him -[728.40 --> 730.70] Will live forever -[730.70 --> 736.60] The power of hell -[736.60 --> 738.98] Forever defeated -[738.98 --> 740.88] Now Israel -[740.88 --> 743.72] I'm walking in freedom -[743.72 --> 745.98] For God so loved -[745.98 --> 750.56] God so loved the world -[750.56 --> 754.94] Praise God -[754.94 --> 757.14] Praise God -[757.14 --> 761.02] From whom all blessings flow -[761.02 --> 764.22] Praise Him -[764.22 --> 766.60] Praise Him -[766.60 --> 770.60] For the wonders of His love -[770.60 --> 773.60] Praise God -[773.60 --> 775.84] Praise God -[775.84 --> 779.60] From whom all blessings flow -[779.60 --> 782.60] Praise Him -[782.60 --> 784.60] Praise Him -[784.60 --> 788.98] For the wonders of His love -[788.98 --> 789.98] God so loved -[789.98 --> 791.98] God so loved -[791.98 --> 794.92] The world that He gave us -[794.92 --> 796.98] Is one and all -[796.98 --> 798.98] The Son to save us -[798.98 --> 800.98] God so loved -[800.98 --> 803.98] The world that He gave us -[803.98 --> 805.98] Is one and all -[805.98 --> 807.98] The Son to save us -[807.98 --> 810.36] The Lord that He gave us -[810.36 --> 811.36] The Lord that He gave us -[811.36 --> 811.42] To Him -[811.42 --> 814.36] And will live forever -[814.36 --> 817.36] For God so loved -[817.36 --> 819.36] For God so loved -[819.36 --> 820.36] The world that He gave us -[820.36 --> 821.36] Forever defeated -[821.36 --> 823.74] Now it is well -[823.74 --> 826.74] I'm walking in freedom -[826.74 --> 828.74] For God so loved -[828.74 --> 830.74] God so loved -[830.74 --> 831.74] God so loved -[831.74 --> 832.74] The world -[832.74 --> 838.74] Bring all your failures -[838.74 --> 840.74] Bring your addictions -[840.74 --> 842.74] Outweigh them down -[842.74 --> 844.74] At the foot of the cross -[844.74 --> 847.74] Jesus is waiting -[847.74 --> 848.74] God so loved -[848.74 --> 849.74] God so loved -[849.74 --> 850.20] God so loved -[850.20 --> 851.12] The world -[851.12 --> 859.50] Let's sit down -[859.50 --> 889.48] God so loved -[889.50 --> 891.74] The Lord -[891.74 --> 892.42] Jesus is waiting -[892.42 --> 893.32] Ramone -[893.32 --> 894.90] . -[898.36 --> 898.92] Ramone -[898.92 --> 899.32] . -[899.32 --> 899.76] There is singing -[899.76 --> 902.92] At the ancient gates -[902.92 --> 904.58] There's a melody -[904.58 --> 906.92] Of ceaseless praise -[906.92 --> 907.94] There is singing -[907.94 --> 910.82] The続 February -[910.82 --> 912.28] A Floyd -[912.28 --> 912.78] In hisí Boulevard -[912.78 --> 917.36] At thecharger -[917.36 --> 920.80] The throne in the name of kings -[920.80 --> 925.32] There is seated on the one who reigns -[925.32 --> 929.66] And every day from now is here -[929.66 --> 931.92] And getting closer -[931.92 --> 939.90] Is it like her there in glory? -[939.90 --> 944.40] Here and now is just as holy -[944.40 --> 950.40] Jesus, He's so worthy of your own -[950.40 --> 956.40] He is this an everlasting life -[956.96 --> 961.64] So on heaven sees there is no right -[961.64 --> 965.40] And every spirit runs away -[965.40 --> 968.56] For the world's sorrow -[968.56 --> 974.56] Worship your joyful sound -[975.28 --> 978.56] Sing until your voice is out -[978.56 --> 980.56] And every prayer -[980.56 --> 983.56] All through the ground -[983.56 --> 986.56] And peace of worship -[986.56 --> 993.56] Is it like her there in glory? -[993.56 --> 998.56] Here and now is just as holy -[998.56 --> 1004.56] Jesus, He's so worthy of your own -[1004.56 --> 1011.56] For the song He loves to hear -[1011.56 --> 1016.56] And in every prayer so dear -[1016.56 --> 1022.56] And He's so worthy of your own -[1022.56 --> 1034.46] The one who is, the one who is to come -[1034.56 --> 1043.56] The one who was, the one who is, the one who is to come -[1043.56 --> 1052.46] The one who was, the one who is, the one who is to come -[1052.46 --> 1061.56] The one who was, the one who is, the one who is to come -[1061.56 --> 1066.82] The two nights were there in the holy -[1066.82 --> 1071.32] And now he's just as holy -[1071.32 --> 1077.06] The one who is so worthy of it all -[1077.06 --> 1085.26] In your song he loves to hear it -[1085.26 --> 1089.98] And in every prayer so clear it -[1089.98 --> 1095.26] The one who is so worthy of it all -[1095.26 --> 1107.00] The one who was, the one who is, the one who is to come -[1107.00 --> 1116.24] The one who was, the one who is, the one who is to come -[1116.24 --> 1125.14] The one who was, the one who is, the one who is to come -[1125.14 --> 1135.62] The one who was, the one who is, the one who is to come. -[1137.74 --> 1139.26] You may be seated. -[1145.08 --> 1147.62] Please join me in prayer this morning. -[1147.62 --> 1157.02] O Lord, you are our shepherd, and yet we want. -[1157.98 --> 1160.84] We lie down and ignore when we should act. -[1161.74 --> 1164.58] We stir the pot when we could offer peace. -[1165.56 --> 1168.98] We wander tempting paths instead of following you. -[1169.90 --> 1174.68] We see courage and comfort in earthly things rather than in you. -[1174.68 --> 1179.06] We hate our enemies when we should be offering them our love. -[1180.04 --> 1184.92] We see our selfish desires even when you offer us abundance. -[1185.86 --> 1188.76] And we pray for your forgiveness and for your mercy, -[1189.16 --> 1193.56] so that we might dwell in you and in your grace forever. -[1194.20 --> 1194.56] Amen. -[1197.66 --> 1202.44] We can be thankful that our sin is not where we sit and where we stay. -[1202.44 --> 1206.32] So here are these words of assurance that were given from Psalm 103. -[1206.80 --> 1212.08] The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. -[1212.64 --> 1216.04] He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever. -[1216.48 --> 1221.08] For he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. -[1221.62 --> 1226.76] For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him. -[1226.76 --> 1232.70] And as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. -[1233.94 --> 1238.72] Let's stand and sing our thankfulness and gratefulness in that. -[1238.72 --> 1257.74] Lord is grace and passion, -[1257.74 --> 1259.74] and the Lord is good to all. -[1259.74 --> 1260.74] Amen. -[1260.74 --> 1266.42] Slow to anger and rich in love. -[1266.42 --> 1271.50] The Lord is gracious and compassionate. -[1271.50 --> 1280.24] Slow to anger and rich in love. -[1280.24 --> 1286.48] And the Lord is good to all -[1286.48 --> 1294.14] He has compassion for all that He has made -[1294.14 --> 1300.64] It's for Jesus from the West -[1300.64 --> 1304.70] That's how far He has removed -[1304.70 --> 1306.74] The transpiration troubles -[1306.74 --> 1314.30] It's for Jesus from the West -[1314.30 --> 1318.62] That's how far He has removed -[1318.62 --> 1320.44] The transpiration troubles -[1320.44 --> 1330.80] Praise the Lord, O my soul -[1330.80 --> 1335.10] Praise the Lord -[1335.10 --> 1344.54] Praise the Lord, O my soul -[1344.54 --> 1348.66] Praise the Lord -[1348.66 --> 1354.54] The Lord is gracious and compassionate -[1354.54 --> 1363.98] Soul to maker and rich in love -[1363.98 --> 1368.20] The Lord is gracious and passionate -[1368.20 --> 1375.98] Soul to maker and rich in love -[1375.98 --> 1382.42] And the Lord is good to all -[1382.42 --> 1389.42] He has compassion for all that He has made -[1389.42 --> 1396.86] As far as Jesus from the West -[1396.86 --> 1400.98] That's how far He has removed -[1400.98 --> 1402.98] The transpiration troubles -[1402.98 --> 1412.42] Praise the Lord, O my soul -[1412.42 --> 1416.54] Praise the Lord -[1416.54 --> 1425.98] Praise the Lord -[1425.98 --> 1427.98] Praise the Lord -[1427.98 --> 1429.98] Praise the Lord -[1429.98 --> 1435.98] Praise the Lord -[1435.98 --> 1445.42] O my soul -[1445.42 --> 1447.42] Praise the Lord -[1447.42 --> 1460.80] Praise the Lord -[1460.80 --> 1464.74] Praise the Lord -[1464.74 --> 1474.06] Lord, O my soul, praise the Lord. -[1494.74 --> 1496.74] Amen. -[1524.74 --> 1552.36] Love so amazing, love so amazing, Jesus Messiah, in love of all names, blessed Redeemer. -[1554.74 --> 1581.20] Emmanuel, the rescue for sinners, the ransom from heaven, Jesus Messiah, Lord of all. -[1584.74 --> 1594.74] God in the bread, He's not the one, broken and born, all for love. -[1595.74 --> 1600.74] A cold and trampled, the thrill of storm. -[1600.74 --> 1627.74] Love so amazing, love so amazing, Jesus Messiah, in love of all names, blessed Redeemer. -[1627.74 --> 1655.74] Emmanuel, the rescue for sinners, the ransom from heaven, Jesus Messiah, Lord of all. -[1655.74 --> 1662.74] Our hope is in you. -[1662.74 --> 1667.74] Our hope is in you. -[1667.74 --> 1669.74] Our hope is in you. -[1669.74 --> 1670.74] Our hope is in you. -[1670.74 --> 1672.74] Our hope is in you. -[1672.74 --> 1673.74] Our hope is in you. -[1673.74 --> 1679.74] Our hope is in you, Lord of all names, thequal of all names, Jesus Messiah. -[1679.74 --> 1686.46] Jesus Messiah -[1686.46 --> 1694.38] May love of all praise -[1694.38 --> 1698.30] Blessed Redeemer -[1698.30 --> 1701.98] Emmanuel -[1701.98 --> 1709.00] The rescue for sinners -[1709.00 --> 1714.68] The ransom of sinners -[1714.68 --> 1720.22] Jesus Messiah -[1720.22 --> 1726.76] Lord of all -[1726.76 --> 1731.48] Jesus Messiah -[1731.48 --> 1738.52] Lord of all -[1738.52 --> 1761.28] Good morning, my name is -[1761.28 --> 1763.52] Yap, I'm a deacon here at Langley Manual -[1763.52 --> 1770.38] We continue our worship with the giving of our gifts to the Gateway of Hope -[1770.38 --> 1775.02] The Gateway of Hope is a ministry of the Salvation Army in Canada -[1775.02 --> 1777.64] Serving the city and township of Langley -[1777.64 --> 1780.46] Their mission is to help the homeless and those at risk -[1780.46 --> 1787.20] With material assistance and other crucial supports in order to help them find hope and move forward -[1787.20 --> 1790.78] From Proverbs 14 verse 31 -[1790.78 --> 1797.58] Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him -[1797.58 --> 1798.74] Thank you -[1798.74 --> 1798.82] Thank you -[1798.82 --> 1821.98] You were the word at the beginning -[1821.98 --> 1830.08] One with God, the Lord Most High -[1830.08 --> 1835.18] Your hidden glory in creation -[1835.18 --> 1842.82] Now revealed in you are Christ -[1842.82 --> 1844.82] What a beautiful name it is -[1844.82 --> 1846.42] What a beautiful name it is -[1846.42 --> 1850.02] What a beautiful name it is -[1850.02 --> 1856.56] The name of Jesus Christ my King -[1856.56 --> 1859.70] What a beautiful name it is -[1859.70 --> 1860.50] What a beautiful name it is -[1860.50 --> 1863.76] Nothing but a test of this -[1863.76 --> 1865.70] What a beautiful name it is -[1865.70 --> 1871.06] Oh, baby, it's the name of Jesus. -[1873.94 --> 1879.14] If you want them without them, -[1879.14 --> 1885.70] Jesus, you brought them down. -[1888.46 --> 1891.80] Sin was greater, love was greater. -[1891.80 --> 1898.88] What could separate us now? -[1898.88 --> 1902.34] What a wonderful day it is. -[1902.70 --> 1905.72] What a wonderful day it is. -[1906.08 --> 1911.88] The name of Jesus Christ, my King. -[1912.70 --> 1915.96] What a wonderful day it is. -[1916.52 --> 1919.02] Nothing from there is. -[1919.02 --> 1922.26] What a wonderful day it is. -[1922.46 --> 1925.52] The name of Jesus. -[1925.52 --> 1928.96] What a wonderful day it is. -[1929.24 --> 1932.30] The name of Jesus. -[1932.30 --> 1942.38] Oh, baby, it's the name of Jesus Christ. -[1942.88 --> 1943.62] All right, Lord, let me sing. -[1943.62 --> 1961.82] Let the Lord not hold you -[1961.82 --> 1965.06] The veil of glory for you -[1965.06 --> 1971.22] The silence, the ghost, the sin and grave -[1971.22 --> 1974.38] The heavens are rolling -[1974.38 --> 1977.64] The praise of your glory -[1977.64 --> 1983.62] For you are raised to life again -[1983.62 --> 1987.00] You have no rival -[1987.00 --> 1990.44] You have no equal -[1990.44 --> 1996.34] Now and forever God you pray -[1996.34 --> 1999.80] Yours is the kingdom -[1999.80 --> 2003.22] The ghost is the glory -[2003.22 --> 2007.42] The ghost is the name of God -[2007.42 --> 2009.06] All the grace -[2009.06 --> 2013.04] What a powerful name it is -[2013.04 --> 2016.30] What a powerful name it is -[2016.30 --> 2021.80] The name of Jesus Christ my King -[2021.80 --> 2026.06] What a powerful name it is -[2026.06 --> 2029.22] Nothing can stand against -[2029.22 --> 2031.64] What a powerful name it is -[2031.64 --> 2035.48] The name of Jesus -[2035.48 --> 2038.76] You have no rival -[2038.76 --> 2042.18] You have no evil -[2042.18 --> 2047.60] Now and forever God you pray -[2047.60 --> 2051.60] Yours is the kingdom -[2051.60 --> 2055.02] Yours is the glory -[2055.02 --> 2061.42] Yours is the name of all names -[2061.42 --> 2064.76] What a powerful name it is -[2064.76 --> 2068.18] What a powerful name it is -[2068.18 --> 2070.18] What a powerful name it is -[2070.18 --> 2072.18] What a powerful name it is -[2072.18 --> 2077.60] What a powerful name it is -[2077.60 --> 2079.64] What a powerful name it is -[2079.64 --> 2083.76] What a powerful name it is -[2083.76 --> 2087.06] The name of Jesus -[2087.06 --> 2090.48] What a wonderful name it is -[2090.48 --> 2110.86] What a powerful name it is -[2110.86 --> 2111.82] What a powerful name it is -[2111.82 --> 2112.82] What a powerful name it is -[2112.82 --> 2128.94] Good morning everybody. -[2128.94 --> 2132.70] Can I have the kids from preschool all the way up to grade four come up to the front -[2132.70 --> 2133.70] today? -[2133.70 --> 2145.70] You guys can scooch in this way. -[2145.70 --> 2149.70] Come up a little bit more. -[2149.70 --> 2152.70] Okay I have a question for you this morning. -[2152.70 --> 2157.70] What has happened this week that has made you happy? -[2157.70 --> 2164.70] Scoring a goal in soccer? -[2164.70 --> 2168.70] Yes that would make me very happy. -[2168.70 --> 2170.70] Getting to play outside? -[2170.70 --> 2179.70] Anybody else? -[2179.70 --> 2182.70] I like playing at soccer. -[2182.70 --> 2183.70] Playing at soccer? -[2183.70 --> 2185.70] Yeah that would make me happy too. -[2185.70 --> 2193.70] So today we're going to learn about another characteristic of Joseph and what he has when he is happy. -[2193.70 --> 2199.70] And we're going to discuss more in children's worship time of when he's sad and when he's scared. -[2199.70 --> 2202.70] And we are going to learn all about Joseph. -[2202.70 --> 2208.70] And the big idea we're learning today too is even when things don't look good God is with us. -[2208.70 --> 2212.70] So when we're happy, when we're sad, and when we're scared. -[2212.70 --> 2213.70] Everybody stand up. -[2213.70 --> 2214.70] And look at our parents. -[2214.70 --> 2215.70] We're at congregation. -[2215.70 --> 2216.70] Okay. -[2216.70 --> 2217.70] Ready? -[2217.70 --> 2218.70] One, two, three. -[2218.70 --> 2219.70] The Lord be with you. -[2219.70 --> 2220.70] And also with you. -[2220.70 --> 2221.70] And also with you. -[2221.70 --> 2222.70] Amen. -[2222.70 --> 2223.70] Be brought in faith! -[2223.70 --> 2228.70] Go andиля to stand at work on the Lord креп Artist Millet brews. -[2228.70 --> 2229.70] And also with you. -[2229.70 --> 2231.70] Thanks a couple of us. -[2231.70 --> 2232.70] And who? -[2232.70 --> 2233.70] For more eraser visit, wSS and two, one, two, two to three. -[2233.70 --> 2234.70] OK, ready! -[2234.70 --> 2235.70] 1, 2, 3 -[2235.70 --> 2237.90] The Lord be with you. -[2237.90 --> 2238.90] The Lord be with you. -[2238.90 --> 2241.98] And also with you. -[2241.98 --> 2243.36] And also with you. -[2243.36 --> 2245.40] Thank you. -[2250.70 --> 2263.90] Good morning. My name is Dave and I'm one of the elders for this congregation. It is my turn to -[2263.90 --> 2267.96] lead us in our church family prayer. Will you bow your heads with me? -[2270.96 --> 2277.56] Praise the Lord, O my soul, all my inmost being. Praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, O my soul, -[2277.56 --> 2282.68] and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, -[2283.04 --> 2286.58] who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion. -[2287.48 --> 2293.76] Father, it is good to gather on this Lord's day. Like the church in all places and through all ages, -[2293.98 --> 2298.44] we dedicate this time to worship you, to sing your praises, and to hear from your word. -[2299.90 --> 2305.20] Father, we confess that even though we spend time with you each Sunday, we confess that we focus -[2305.20 --> 2311.14] our time and thoughts on things that distract us from you. We confess that like your people Israel, -[2311.62 --> 2317.68] we have served our own idols and neglected those in need around us. Father, we thank you that we do -[2317.68 --> 2323.40] not have to be burdened by our sin, for Christ has taken our sin from us. As you told the prophet -[2323.40 --> 2329.48] Jeremiah, you have forgiven our wickedness and remember our sin no more. We thank you for that -[2329.48 --> 2336.58] precious gift. Father, we like to thank you for this church community and those who are gathered here. -[2336.84 --> 2342.90] We thank you for the leadership of this church, Pastor Chris, Pastor Kevin, for Josh, for members -[2342.90 --> 2347.50] of the council and the leadership role that they all provide. We thank you for the many ministries of -[2347.50 --> 2353.96] this church, nursery, children's worship time, gems, cadets, youth, young adults, coffee break, -[2353.96 --> 2359.14] care groups, seniors ministry, and others. We ask that you bless the work that they do, -[2359.40 --> 2363.38] that they will be able to meet the spiritual and physical needs that we see around us. -[2364.32 --> 2368.08] Father, we thank you for the free country that we live in, where we have the extraordinary -[2368.08 --> 2374.64] privilege of choosing new leaders at election time. We pray for our 93 new MLAs, both in government -[2374.64 --> 2380.14] and in opposition. We pray that even with their different ideologies and values, they will remember -[2380.14 --> 2385.46] the people that they serve. We pray that whether they acknowledge you or not, that they will know -[2385.46 --> 2393.68] to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with our God. Father, we also bring to you the needs -[2393.68 --> 2398.74] that we have for our congregation and the world around us. We pray for Louise, who's been diagnosed -[2398.74 --> 2403.96] with Bell's palsy. We ask that you give her the patience that she needs and that she'll have a quick -[2403.96 --> 2409.58] and complete recovery. We pray for Linda and Neil and the rest of the family as they continue to grieve -[2409.58 --> 2416.34] the passing of Linda's mom. We thank you for Bill and Miriam De Winter, who are celebrating 45 years -[2416.34 --> 2421.74] of marriage. We thank Paul and Leslie Kuhl, who just celebrated 40 years. We thank you for the -[2421.74 --> 2427.66] institution of marriage and family. We pray for many happy years to come. We pray for Ashley, -[2428.04 --> 2433.62] Mark and Dietrich Klengelting's sister-in-law, who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. As she begins -[2433.62 --> 2438.62] the difficult journey of chemotherapy, we pray that you will be with her, her husband, and the four -[2438.62 --> 2444.40] children. And look, we look forward to her healing. Father, we pray for students in this congregation, -[2444.70 --> 2452.12] both those who are here or studying elsewhere. We help them in their studies and that they will be, -[2452.20 --> 2458.16] still be able to contribute to Christian community. We pray for shut-ins and those who cannot be here. -[2458.62 --> 2463.62] We pray that they will still have opportunities for them to experience the love of family, -[2463.62 --> 2469.18] the strength of Christian community, and the presence in their lives. Father, we think about -[2469.18 --> 2474.02] the heavy rain and the flooding this weekend. We know the value of rain and the life that it brings, -[2474.22 --> 2480.30] but we can see the damage that it can cause. For all those who are experiencing damage or flooding or -[2480.30 --> 2489.08] need to clean up, we pray that as community, they and we will be able to do that. Father, -[2489.08 --> 2494.38] we continue to pray for troubled war zones in the world. We think about the violence that takes place -[2494.38 --> 2500.58] in Israel, Gaza, Lebanon, and potentially in Iran, and we do fear an even greater escalation of that -[2500.58 --> 2506.34] conflict. We think of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, and we do not see an end in sight. -[2507.04 --> 2511.18] We think about so many other regions that are experiencing conflict that we don't often think -[2511.18 --> 2516.50] about. Father, we pray that you will work in the hearts of various leaders, that they could see a way -[2516.50 --> 2522.34] to resolve their conflicts and begin to live next to each other in peace. Father, we ask that you be -[2522.34 --> 2528.48] at Pastor Chris as he leads us in your word and tells us more of the story of Joseph. It is just one -[2528.48 --> 2536.76] of many reminders of your sovereignty in the midst of human suffering. The grace of the Lord Jesus be with us all. Amen. -[2546.50 --> 2570.70] We are going to open up the Bible and read and reflect on the story of Joseph near the beginning of the story of Joseph. -[2570.70 --> 2578.84] We are going to read from Genesis 37, starting at verse 12. I am going to read through the end of the chapter -[2578.84 --> 2584.88] in this part of the story, but I am going to encourage you to keep your Bibles open, keep them in front of you -[2584.88 --> 2590.78] as we come back to it. For the first time through, like we said, it should be on the screen behind us. -[2591.22 --> 2593.88] There are Bibles available at the back for you too. -[2593.88 --> 2597.26] This is what we read. -[2623.88 --> 2635.64] When Joseph arrived at Shechem, a man found him wandering around in the fields and asked him, -[2636.00 --> 2640.04] What are you looking for? And he replied, I am looking for my brothers. -[2640.42 --> 2643.06] Can you tell me where they are grazing their flocks? -[2644.10 --> 2646.56] They have moved on from here, the man answered. -[2646.56 --> 2650.78] I heard them say, let's go to Dothan. -[2652.04 --> 2655.62] So Joseph went after his brothers and found them near Dothan. -[2656.46 --> 2662.12] But they saw him in the distance, and before he reached them, they plotted to kill him. -[2663.38 --> 2666.44] Here comes that dreamer, they said to each other. -[2667.18 --> 2672.92] Come now, let's kill him and throw him into these cisterns and say that a ferocious animal devoured him. -[2672.92 --> 2675.48] Then we'll see what comes of his dreams. -[2677.32 --> 2681.72] When Reuben heard this, he tried to rescue him from their hands. -[2682.26 --> 2683.96] Let's not take his life, he said. -[2684.20 --> 2685.48] Don't shed any blood. -[2685.98 --> 2690.76] Throw him into this cistern here in the wilderness, but don't lay a hand on him. -[2691.74 --> 2696.64] Reuben said this to rescue him from them and take him back to his father. -[2696.64 --> 2704.16] So when Joseph came to his brothers, they stripped him of his robe, the ornate robe that he was wearing, -[2704.34 --> 2707.02] and they took him and threw him into the cistern. -[2707.54 --> 2710.96] The cistern was empty, and there was no water in it. -[2712.10 --> 2718.88] As they sat down to eat their meal, they looked up, and they saw a caravan of Ishmaelites coming from Gilead. -[2718.98 --> 2725.38] Their camels were loaded with spices, balm, and myrrh, and they were on their way to take them down to Egypt. -[2725.38 --> 2728.20] Judah said to his brothers, -[2728.60 --> 2732.06] What will we gain if we kill our brother and cover up his blood? -[2732.88 --> 2738.10] Come, let's sell him to the Ishmaelites and not lay our hands on him. -[2738.42 --> 2741.64] After all, he is our brother, our own flesh and blood. -[2742.52 --> 2743.52] His brothers agreed. -[2743.52 --> 2750.78] So when the Midianite merchants came by, his brothers pulled Joseph up out of the cistern -[2750.78 --> 2756.68] and sold him for 20 shekels of silver to the Ishmaelites who took him to Egypt. -[2758.24 --> 2763.96] When Reuben returned to the cistern and saw that Joseph was not there, he tore his clothes. -[2764.64 --> 2766.24] He went back to his brothers and said, -[2766.30 --> 2767.42] The boy isn't there. -[2767.60 --> 2769.08] Where can I turn now? -[2769.08 --> 2775.50] Then they got Joseph's robe, slaughtered a goat, and dipped the robe in the blood. -[2776.36 --> 2779.44] They took the ornate robe back to their father and said, -[2779.78 --> 2780.86] We found this. -[2781.64 --> 2784.36] Examine it to see whether it's your son's robe. -[2785.98 --> 2787.82] He recognized it and said, -[2788.14 --> 2789.90] It is my son's robe. -[2790.46 --> 2792.72] Some ferocious animal has devoured him. -[2793.80 --> 2796.44] Joseph has surely been torn to pieces. -[2796.44 --> 2803.58] And then Jacob tore his clothes, put on sackcloth, and mourned his son for many days. -[2804.42 --> 2810.22] All his sons and daughters came to comfort him, but he refused to be comforted. -[2811.10 --> 2812.34] No, he said. -[2812.88 --> 2816.86] I will continue to mourn until I join my son in the grave. -[2818.04 --> 2820.64] So his father wept for him. -[2820.64 --> 2832.54] Meanwhile, the Midianites sold Joseph in Egypt to Potiphar, one of Pharaoh's officials, the captain of the guard. -[2833.50 --> 2834.76] This is the word of the Lord. -[2841.54 --> 2844.72] So, spoiler alert, right at the beginning. -[2845.94 --> 2846.78] Spoiler alert. -[2848.10 --> 2849.56] God wins. -[2849.56 --> 2850.72] God wins. -[2852.00 --> 2852.84] God wins. -[2853.58 --> 2854.90] That's the hope of the Bible. -[2855.06 --> 2856.20] That's the message of the cross. -[2856.32 --> 2858.26] That's the truth of God's sovereignty. -[2859.48 --> 2860.38] God wins. -[2862.06 --> 2864.10] I'm going to keep saying that until one of you says amen. -[2864.38 --> 2864.94] God wins. -[2865.56 --> 2866.32] Thank you. -[2868.06 --> 2874.88] This is the reality that we enter into these particular stories with. -[2874.88 --> 2875.72] But I want you to... -[2875.72 --> 2877.40] Did you notice? -[2877.40 --> 2887.82] As we read the story, this is one of the really few times that the author here of Genesis provides abundant narrative details. -[2887.82 --> 2891.38] Like it takes a long time to read this story. -[2891.38 --> 2896.82] There's details that we don't normally get in the telling of stories from the Bible. -[2896.96 --> 2902.44] And the idea is to provide so much information that you can picture it and live it. -[2902.44 --> 2911.32] But then what I want to suggest to you is that in doing so, we miss what might be happening elsewhere. -[2911.32 --> 2913.66] Because there's so much in front of us. -[2914.08 --> 2915.10] It's overwhelming. -[2915.10 --> 2929.54] In the book Ender's Shadow by Orson Scott Card, he has this exchange. -[2930.26 --> 2933.52] One of the officials, the captains, says, -[2933.86 --> 2936.18] Do you know why Satan is so angry all the time? -[2936.18 --> 2945.44] It's because whenever he works a particularly clever bit of mischief, God uses it to serve his own righteous purposes. -[2947.24 --> 2954.66] He goes on that God uses his own freedom to create goodness out of that evil, for that's what God chooses to do. -[2955.74 --> 2957.80] And then the character he's talking to says, -[2958.00 --> 2959.50] So in the long run, God wins? -[2960.98 --> 2962.66] Yes, is the response. -[2962.66 --> 2966.86] In the short run, though, it can be uncomfortable. -[2968.98 --> 2972.82] So God wins, and it can be uncomfortable. -[2974.88 --> 2980.56] The reality of our life in this world is that there is great evil. -[2981.06 --> 2982.72] That life can be hard. -[2982.84 --> 2983.78] That we suffer. -[2983.96 --> 2989.76] The truth of this present moment, here and now, as we wait for that day of victory, -[2989.76 --> 2995.50] as we wait for the return of Christ, as we wait for the full revelation of God's kingdom here on earth, -[2995.58 --> 3002.72] we wait in the midst of pain and illness and trial and suffering and tears and death. -[3005.42 --> 3008.48] These are the twin experiences of life in the world. -[3008.80 --> 3009.48] God wins. -[3009.88 --> 3011.98] The reality of God's sovereignty. -[3011.98 --> 3021.26] And remember, we define God's sovereignty as his right to rule and reign as Lord of the universe. -[3021.42 --> 3023.76] That is, nothing happens without him. -[3024.40 --> 3028.40] And on the other side, we have the reality of human suffering. -[3028.52 --> 3030.86] That things aren't the way they're supposed to be. -[3031.20 --> 3037.56] We have this sense and this crying out at the injustice and the inequality of it all. -[3037.56 --> 3046.14] And in that experiential tension, we live our lives of faith. -[3048.02 --> 3054.42] Another way that this has been put is the struggle of the hiddenness of God. -[3055.40 --> 3057.26] The struggle of the hiddenness of God. -[3057.60 --> 3060.54] Where is God when things go bad? -[3061.56 --> 3065.44] Where is God when my life is crumbling around me? -[3065.44 --> 3066.18] Right? -[3066.20 --> 3071.26] If he is so sovereign and so good, why doesn't he do something good with this thing going on? -[3073.76 --> 3073.96] Right? -[3074.04 --> 3084.94] The hiddenness of God is one of the most regular challenges to our experience of life and faith. -[3085.64 --> 3089.62] The hiddenness of God is the root of so many deconstruction stories. -[3089.62 --> 3093.58] The hiddenness of God, the crying out, why can't I see you? -[3093.68 --> 3094.60] Where are you? -[3095.44 --> 3101.48] It's something that any of us who have lived a little bit of life have had to contend with. -[3103.28 --> 3108.92] Now for so many, in the moment, these twin truths, the sovereignty of God, that God wins, -[3109.04 --> 3111.80] and his hiddenness seem sort of paradoxical. -[3112.10 --> 3113.48] They seem incompatible. -[3113.48 --> 3122.52] What I hope in this series is that we begin to see that they're not incompatible, but they are difficult. -[3122.52 --> 3124.58] Right? -[3124.58 --> 3130.62] And to help us understand how we might see God in the midst of these circumstances, -[3130.62 --> 3137.24] we're reading the story of Joseph looking for what I am calling God hints. -[3138.12 --> 3138.76] Right? -[3138.86 --> 3139.62] God hints. -[3139.68 --> 3143.30] Little clues in the story to help us not only survive, -[3143.30 --> 3149.00] but maybe even to thrive in the midst of our trial and hardship and suffering. -[3149.34 --> 3158.88] Now these God hints will help us, I hope, see through the hiddenness of God and remember that he is there. -[3158.88 --> 3168.14] And the God hint for this morning, where I want us to see, is what I'm calling remembering meanwhile. -[3169.36 --> 3169.74] Right? -[3169.82 --> 3171.46] Remembering meanwhile. -[3172.18 --> 3179.14] Now these God hints are glimpses of God's practical and theological helps in the midst of our suffering. -[3179.14 --> 3182.48] So if you were here two weeks ago when we started this series, -[3182.94 --> 3187.54] we started looking at the God hint, keep these things in mind, -[3187.66 --> 3192.60] focusing on the promises of God, the vision of God for hope, for a brighter tomorrow, -[3193.02 --> 3196.38] for the culmination of the story of God's salvation. -[3197.26 --> 3205.56] In the midst of today's darkness, we can look to the future of God's fully restored, fully redeemed earth. -[3205.56 --> 3213.40] And we said that what we choose to focus our minds on impacts how we endure suffering -[3213.40 --> 3218.68] and how we thrive in the midst of trial. -[3219.98 --> 3223.70] Today, we remember meanwhile. -[3225.42 --> 3230.26] Now as you can probably guess, this comes from verse 36 of our text right at the end. -[3230.86 --> 3235.10] Meanwhile, the Midianites sold Joseph in Egypt to Potiphar, -[3235.10 --> 3238.46] one of Pharaoh's officials, the captain of the guard. -[3239.96 --> 3240.08] Right? -[3240.12 --> 3242.52] So all of this befalls Joseph. -[3242.64 --> 3248.98] And remember, the author is at pains to make us march slowly through this text -[3248.98 --> 3253.22] so we can feel the weight of all of this settling on us. -[3254.50 --> 3255.02] Right? -[3255.10 --> 3256.66] His brothers want to kill him. -[3257.34 --> 3258.52] They settle for selling him. -[3258.88 --> 3264.32] They break the news to their father Jacob, who holds his son's blood-stained cloak, -[3264.32 --> 3268.74] and he cries out in suffering and in anguish of soul at the apparent death of his son. -[3268.74 --> 3269.14] And he says, -[3269.14 --> 3274.04] I will continue to mourn my son until I join him in the grave. -[3274.38 --> 3277.60] The rest of my life will be empty and incomplete. -[3277.90 --> 3281.32] There will be a gaping hole without Joseph. -[3281.32 --> 3284.90] And so Jacob weeps in the terror of it. -[3286.10 --> 3288.08] And as all of this is happening, -[3289.24 --> 3291.54] verse 36, easily missed, -[3292.08 --> 3296.12] almost imperceptible in the midst of Jacob's pain, -[3296.22 --> 3297.22] which is right in front of him, -[3297.54 --> 3299.14] verse 36 quietly says, -[3299.14 --> 3300.32] Meanwhile, -[3302.00 --> 3305.44] the Midianites sold Joseph in Egypt to Potiphar, -[3306.22 --> 3307.42] one of Pharaoh's officials, -[3307.82 --> 3309.42] the captain of the guard. -[3310.76 --> 3312.14] That little word, -[3313.00 --> 3313.50] meanwhile, -[3314.86 --> 3315.46] changes -[3315.46 --> 3317.76] our experience -[3317.76 --> 3319.00] of suffering. -[3320.30 --> 3321.50] Now, meanwhile, -[3321.86 --> 3323.40] that means at the same time. -[3323.78 --> 3323.98] Right? -[3324.06 --> 3325.04] While this is happening. -[3325.04 --> 3327.16] And in this story, -[3327.56 --> 3329.80] the narrator is breaking in -[3329.80 --> 3334.32] and drawing our attention away from the main stage. -[3335.08 --> 3337.76] So all of this that befalls Joseph and his family -[3337.76 --> 3339.48] is happening here on the main stage. -[3339.60 --> 3341.50] And the narrator breaks in and says, -[3342.08 --> 3342.42] Meanwhile, -[3343.22 --> 3344.86] as all that was happening, -[3345.82 --> 3348.72] this is going on over here. -[3349.68 --> 3352.26] Our eyes and our ears are called to focus, -[3352.26 --> 3353.28] just for a moment, -[3353.90 --> 3354.58] to the side. -[3355.04 --> 3358.30] And from the perspective of the omnipotent narrator, -[3358.52 --> 3359.52] we're reminded, right, -[3359.56 --> 3361.44] that something else is going on. -[3361.68 --> 3364.06] That even though the story -[3364.06 --> 3367.14] leaves Joseph in the well, -[3367.54 --> 3369.80] what's happening does not. -[3370.98 --> 3371.26] Right? -[3371.32 --> 3374.08] He's sold to Ishmaelites and Midianites, -[3374.28 --> 3375.84] but not forgotten. -[3376.66 --> 3378.58] There is a parallel story -[3378.58 --> 3381.46] that we can't yet see, -[3381.46 --> 3383.40] that briefly, -[3383.94 --> 3386.80] our eyes are being called to attention on. -[3388.04 --> 3389.66] That's what I mean when I say -[3389.66 --> 3391.34] remembering meanwhile. -[3392.14 --> 3392.22] Right? -[3392.38 --> 3393.98] Even when we can't see it, -[3394.22 --> 3395.68] even when we are overwhelmed -[3395.68 --> 3397.36] with our mourning as Jacob was, -[3397.44 --> 3399.74] even when the suffering is so great -[3399.74 --> 3401.46] we can't see past it, -[3401.46 --> 3404.18] you can know -[3404.18 --> 3407.18] that there is something else -[3407.18 --> 3408.42] happening. -[3408.56 --> 3409.58] There is a meanwhile -[3409.58 --> 3411.24] taking place -[3411.24 --> 3412.60] in your story. -[3413.88 --> 3414.26] Right? -[3414.82 --> 3416.12] Remembering meanwhile. -[3416.44 --> 3418.20] How we can survive and thrive -[3418.20 --> 3419.30] in the midst of human suffering -[3419.30 --> 3420.68] is by remembering -[3420.68 --> 3423.24] that even when it doesn't seem like it, -[3423.28 --> 3424.92] even when it doesn't feel like it, -[3425.14 --> 3427.14] God is sovereign over all creation. -[3428.14 --> 3428.30] Right? -[3428.30 --> 3428.64] In the end, -[3428.72 --> 3431.76] this story isn't really Jacob's story. -[3431.88 --> 3433.56] It's not really Joseph's story -[3433.56 --> 3436.10] or it isn't our story alone. -[3436.84 --> 3437.06] Right? -[3437.08 --> 3438.92] This is all God's story, -[3439.02 --> 3440.58] his creation story, -[3440.74 --> 3441.40] God's rule, -[3441.54 --> 3442.18] God's reign, -[3442.54 --> 3444.06] God at work in the world. -[3444.18 --> 3444.78] And remember, -[3445.26 --> 3446.72] God wins. -[3448.32 --> 3452.58] And our story is part of this story. -[3452.58 --> 3454.46] And so, -[3454.86 --> 3456.06] the theme that -[3456.06 --> 3457.30] sort of remembering meanwhile -[3457.30 --> 3458.30] works out under -[3458.30 --> 3460.78] is that God's godness, -[3461.98 --> 3463.62] the fact that he is God, -[3464.02 --> 3465.70] means that he is always -[3465.70 --> 3467.64] doing something. -[3469.18 --> 3470.64] God's godness -[3470.64 --> 3472.24] means that he is always -[3472.24 --> 3473.80] doing something. -[3474.64 --> 3474.84] See, -[3474.96 --> 3477.02] the positive side -[3477.02 --> 3478.62] to the truth -[3478.62 --> 3480.18] of the hiddenness of God, -[3480.18 --> 3480.22] God, -[3480.82 --> 3481.04] right, -[3481.20 --> 3483.20] is that not being able -[3483.20 --> 3484.18] to see God -[3484.18 --> 3486.20] means you might not -[3486.20 --> 3487.22] be able to see -[3487.22 --> 3489.28] how he is working. -[3491.10 --> 3492.16] It's really easy -[3492.16 --> 3492.90] to assume -[3492.90 --> 3494.34] that because we don't -[3494.34 --> 3494.94] see him -[3494.94 --> 3496.24] or can't understand it, -[3496.40 --> 3497.34] that he isn't there, -[3497.76 --> 3498.62] that he isn't working, -[3498.84 --> 3499.98] that he isn't doing anything -[3499.98 --> 3501.02] in the midst of our lives -[3501.02 --> 3501.50] and in the midst -[3501.50 --> 3502.12] of our struggles. -[3502.12 --> 3504.82] But we have to -[3504.82 --> 3505.50] acknowledge -[3505.50 --> 3507.50] that just because -[3507.50 --> 3508.58] I can't see him -[3508.58 --> 3510.24] doesn't mean -[3510.24 --> 3511.12] he isn't. -[3512.90 --> 3513.58] Or to put it -[3513.58 --> 3514.14] another way, -[3514.82 --> 3515.40] perhaps a little bit -[3515.40 --> 3516.26] more philosophically, -[3517.00 --> 3517.66] the evidence -[3517.66 --> 3518.76] of absence -[3518.76 --> 3519.84] is not -[3519.84 --> 3521.34] evidence of, -[3521.72 --> 3522.50] or the absence -[3522.50 --> 3523.22] of evidence -[3523.22 --> 3523.98] is not -[3523.98 --> 3525.26] evidence of -[3525.26 --> 3526.04] absence. -[3527.18 --> 3527.80] Just because you -[3527.80 --> 3528.38] can't see it -[3528.38 --> 3529.00] doesn't mean -[3529.00 --> 3529.64] he's not there. -[3530.30 --> 3531.04] Just because you -[3531.04 --> 3531.92] don't understand it -[3531.92 --> 3532.62] doesn't mean -[3532.62 --> 3533.82] it's not understandable. -[3535.08 --> 3535.66] I was thinking -[3535.66 --> 3536.36] about this week. -[3537.64 --> 3539.26] I don't understand -[3539.26 --> 3540.92] the complex math -[3540.92 --> 3544.34] of the two body -[3544.34 --> 3545.96] gravitational structures -[3545.96 --> 3546.78] through the universe. -[3546.88 --> 3547.46] I don't get it. -[3548.12 --> 3549.12] It doesn't make sense -[3549.12 --> 3549.44] to me. -[3551.28 --> 3551.92] But that doesn't mean -[3551.92 --> 3552.50] it's not there. -[3553.40 --> 3553.86] It doesn't mean -[3553.86 --> 3554.36] that math -[3554.36 --> 3555.20] isn't complete -[3555.20 --> 3555.90] and perfect -[3555.90 --> 3557.60] and that somehow, -[3557.90 --> 3558.56] in some way, -[3558.66 --> 3559.40] someone can make -[3559.40 --> 3560.02] sense of it. -[3561.92 --> 3564.18] Now, -[3564.70 --> 3566.48] before we -[3566.48 --> 3568.72] get too far -[3568.72 --> 3569.60] into how we -[3569.60 --> 3570.70] remember meanwhile, -[3570.92 --> 3571.34] I want to -[3571.34 --> 3573.24] acknowledge something -[3573.24 --> 3574.24] and offer this -[3574.24 --> 3575.04] as a bit of a caution. -[3576.32 --> 3576.98] Because you see, -[3577.24 --> 3581.04] as we try -[3581.04 --> 3582.30] to see God -[3582.30 --> 3582.94] at work, -[3583.64 --> 3584.70] as we try -[3584.70 --> 3585.40] to believe -[3585.40 --> 3586.04] even when we -[3586.04 --> 3586.72] can't see -[3586.72 --> 3587.60] that God -[3587.60 --> 3588.10] is at work, -[3588.14 --> 3588.62] as we try -[3588.62 --> 3589.30] to have hope -[3589.30 --> 3589.92] for today -[3589.92 --> 3590.98] and strength -[3590.98 --> 3591.68] for tomorrow -[3591.68 --> 3592.70] because of the -[3592.70 --> 3593.58] promises of God, -[3593.90 --> 3594.90] there's always -[3594.90 --> 3596.24] going to be -[3596.24 --> 3598.02] people and things -[3598.02 --> 3598.76] in your life -[3598.76 --> 3599.72] who actively -[3599.72 --> 3601.50] work against this. -[3603.70 --> 3604.36] Right? -[3604.40 --> 3605.10] This is the role -[3605.10 --> 3606.88] that the deceiver, -[3607.24 --> 3607.82] the tempter, -[3608.04 --> 3608.56] that Satan -[3608.56 --> 3609.68] sometimes plays. -[3610.26 --> 3611.40] But there's also -[3611.40 --> 3611.88] people -[3611.88 --> 3613.84] who do this. -[3614.34 --> 3614.70] Right? -[3614.72 --> 3615.48] It's true for Joseph -[3615.48 --> 3616.42] as well. -[3616.42 --> 3616.78] If you've got -[3616.78 --> 3617.56] your Bible open, -[3617.94 --> 3618.92] verse 19 -[3618.92 --> 3620.26] and 20, -[3620.64 --> 3621.32] his brothers -[3621.32 --> 3621.78] say, -[3621.88 --> 3622.46] here comes -[3622.46 --> 3623.24] that dreamer. -[3624.16 --> 3624.64] Come, -[3624.72 --> 3625.34] let's kill him. -[3626.00 --> 3626.74] Let's throw him -[3626.74 --> 3627.30] into one of these -[3627.30 --> 3628.08] cisterns and say -[3628.08 --> 3628.66] that a ferocious -[3628.66 --> 3629.52] animal devoured him. -[3629.76 --> 3630.76] Then we'll see -[3630.76 --> 3631.24] what comes -[3631.24 --> 3631.90] of his dreams. -[3634.18 --> 3634.34] Right? -[3634.40 --> 3635.10] Even as we -[3635.10 --> 3635.72] are struggling -[3635.72 --> 3636.64] to remember -[3636.64 --> 3637.58] meanwhile, -[3638.60 --> 3638.78] like, -[3639.00 --> 3639.98] open your eyes -[3639.98 --> 3640.52] and see -[3640.52 --> 3641.04] that there are -[3641.04 --> 3641.38] going to be -[3641.38 --> 3642.02] challenges -[3642.02 --> 3643.78] to our ability -[3643.78 --> 3645.04] and challengers -[3645.04 --> 3646.50] to our ability -[3646.50 --> 3647.42] to remember -[3647.42 --> 3648.08] that God -[3648.08 --> 3648.94] is at work -[3648.94 --> 3649.68] in the midst -[3649.68 --> 3650.14] of whatever -[3650.14 --> 3650.90] it is you're in. -[3651.94 --> 3653.08] And these challenges -[3653.08 --> 3653.96] are going to come -[3653.96 --> 3654.50] primarily -[3654.50 --> 3656.68] in two forms. -[3657.88 --> 3658.34] Right? -[3658.38 --> 3658.78] One of them -[3658.78 --> 3659.74] is external -[3659.74 --> 3661.02] and one of them -[3661.02 --> 3661.64] is internal. -[3663.40 --> 3663.60] Right? -[3663.62 --> 3664.50] And for the external, -[3664.68 --> 3665.02] and we've already -[3665.02 --> 3665.46] said this, -[3665.50 --> 3666.18] for the external, -[3666.46 --> 3667.06] there's always -[3667.06 --> 3668.12] going to be people -[3668.12 --> 3669.92] like Joseph's brothers -[3669.92 --> 3671.36] who say something like, -[3671.46 --> 3672.48] here comes that dreamer. -[3672.48 --> 3673.70] Let's kill him -[3673.70 --> 3674.64] and see what comes -[3674.64 --> 3675.80] of his dreams. -[3675.96 --> 3676.16] Right? -[3676.18 --> 3676.70] There's always -[3676.70 --> 3677.80] going to be people -[3677.80 --> 3679.66] who mock the dreams -[3679.66 --> 3680.30] and the visions -[3680.30 --> 3681.96] and the hopes of God. -[3682.44 --> 3683.26] And in the midst -[3683.26 --> 3684.44] of your great trial, -[3684.86 --> 3686.04] it may be the case -[3686.04 --> 3687.16] that someone will come along -[3687.16 --> 3688.36] and want to quash -[3688.36 --> 3689.62] God's hope in you. -[3691.14 --> 3692.32] In the story of Job, -[3692.96 --> 3693.76] which is another one -[3693.76 --> 3695.58] of these great stories -[3695.58 --> 3696.56] about human suffering -[3696.56 --> 3697.60] and God's sovereignty, -[3698.38 --> 3698.96] in the midst -[3698.96 --> 3700.62] of Job's suffering, -[3701.30 --> 3702.28] Job's wife -[3702.28 --> 3703.44] is one of these -[3703.44 --> 3704.44] external voices -[3704.44 --> 3705.82] that comes to him -[3705.82 --> 3706.34] and she says, -[3706.66 --> 3707.48] are you still -[3707.48 --> 3709.08] maintaining your integrity? -[3709.88 --> 3711.46] Curse God and die, -[3711.60 --> 3712.16] she says, -[3712.50 --> 3713.66] in Job 2 verse 9. -[3714.64 --> 3715.76] This is his own wife -[3715.76 --> 3717.02] telling him to give up hope. -[3717.22 --> 3718.10] This is his own wife -[3718.10 --> 3718.94] telling him to let go -[3718.94 --> 3720.02] of the promises of God. -[3721.48 --> 3722.82] The reality is -[3722.82 --> 3724.02] that in this life -[3724.02 --> 3724.90] and in this world, -[3725.06 --> 3725.96] there are people -[3725.96 --> 3727.42] who are hopeless -[3727.42 --> 3729.36] and who only feel better -[3729.36 --> 3730.80] about their hopelessness -[3730.80 --> 3731.94] when they can project it -[3731.94 --> 3733.30] on to people around them. -[3735.86 --> 3737.04] We are not meant -[3737.04 --> 3737.86] to be alone -[3737.86 --> 3739.08] and one of the ways -[3739.08 --> 3739.82] that the desire -[3739.82 --> 3740.60] for community -[3740.60 --> 3741.90] is perverted -[3741.90 --> 3743.04] and is corrupted -[3743.04 --> 3743.76] by sin -[3743.76 --> 3745.40] is that we bring others -[3745.40 --> 3746.56] into our corruption. -[3747.96 --> 3749.00] We bring others -[3749.00 --> 3751.00] into our hopelessness, -[3751.54 --> 3752.34] our nihilism, -[3752.74 --> 3753.96] and we project it -[3753.96 --> 3754.96] out onto them. -[3754.96 --> 3758.98] Even as there are people -[3758.98 --> 3760.28] trying to bring us down, -[3760.40 --> 3761.52] trying to make us forget -[3761.52 --> 3762.92] the promises of God -[3762.92 --> 3764.62] based on their own -[3764.62 --> 3766.06] experiences of hopelessness, -[3766.42 --> 3767.74] the other side of this, -[3767.80 --> 3768.56] the other truth here -[3768.56 --> 3769.90] is that we don't actually -[3769.90 --> 3770.86] need these people -[3770.86 --> 3771.46] to do that. -[3772.84 --> 3773.10] Right? -[3773.14 --> 3774.64] We don't need people -[3774.64 --> 3777.28] or even Satan, -[3777.58 --> 3778.94] the tempter to do this, -[3779.02 --> 3780.00] the deceiver to do this, -[3780.00 --> 3781.22] because most of us -[3781.22 --> 3781.76] are pretty good -[3781.76 --> 3782.72] at doing this on our own. -[3782.72 --> 3784.90] And that's the other side. -[3784.96 --> 3785.76] We've got external -[3785.76 --> 3787.24] temptations and forces -[3787.24 --> 3788.28] and internal -[3788.28 --> 3789.84] temptations and forces. -[3790.24 --> 3791.62] We are quite capable -[3791.62 --> 3792.58] on our own -[3792.58 --> 3793.70] of being our own -[3793.70 --> 3795.14] challenge to remembering -[3795.14 --> 3796.20] meanwhile. -[3797.62 --> 3799.42] Even when everything -[3799.42 --> 3802.44] is going against us, -[3803.30 --> 3805.02] when it seems like life -[3805.02 --> 3806.24] can't get any harder, -[3807.20 --> 3808.92] when we read in Scripture -[3808.92 --> 3810.26] when weeping lasts -[3810.26 --> 3810.88] for the night -[3810.88 --> 3811.92] but then also -[3811.92 --> 3812.66] for the next night, -[3813.14 --> 3813.82] and then again -[3813.82 --> 3814.58] for the next night, -[3814.90 --> 3816.00] and for the next night, -[3816.48 --> 3818.02] when all we seem to know -[3818.02 --> 3818.96] are our tears -[3818.96 --> 3819.74] and our tears have been -[3819.74 --> 3820.98] our food day and night, -[3821.14 --> 3822.92] when joy never seems to come, -[3823.08 --> 3823.86] in those moments -[3823.86 --> 3825.14] it can be so easy -[3825.14 --> 3826.98] to forget the promises of God. -[3827.32 --> 3828.30] And in those moments -[3828.30 --> 3829.14] it can be so easy -[3829.14 --> 3830.20] to tell ourselves -[3830.20 --> 3831.92] that God is against us, -[3832.00 --> 3833.60] that the world is against us, -[3833.64 --> 3834.62] that the universe -[3834.62 --> 3835.68] has it in for us, -[3835.76 --> 3837.56] that nobody cares about me. -[3837.56 --> 3840.18] And in those moments, -[3840.30 --> 3840.48] right, -[3840.52 --> 3841.14] all of a sudden -[3841.14 --> 3844.60] every little slight -[3844.60 --> 3846.08] becomes huge. -[3846.98 --> 3848.74] Every misspoken word -[3848.74 --> 3850.96] becomes a personal attack. -[3851.52 --> 3853.14] Every forgotten moment -[3853.14 --> 3854.62] erases our identity. -[3855.18 --> 3856.48] Every missed opportunity -[3856.48 --> 3857.12] to say, -[3857.28 --> 3857.88] I love you, -[3857.94 --> 3858.98] becomes a reason -[3858.98 --> 3860.38] to think I'm not lovable. -[3860.38 --> 3861.42] Right, -[3861.42 --> 3863.30] this is how our hearts -[3863.30 --> 3864.14] and our minds work. -[3864.88 --> 3865.88] We're overwhelmed -[3865.88 --> 3867.08] by the present, -[3867.86 --> 3869.02] and it makes it impossible -[3869.02 --> 3871.00] to see beyond our pain -[3871.00 --> 3872.20] and our suffering. -[3872.20 --> 3876.62] This week I had a chance -[3876.62 --> 3878.66] to re-read -[3878.66 --> 3880.74] C.S. Lewis' book -[3880.74 --> 3882.06] A Grief Observed. -[3882.12 --> 3882.96] It's just a short little -[3882.96 --> 3884.12] memoir -[3884.12 --> 3885.86] after the death -[3885.86 --> 3886.72] of his wife. -[3887.92 --> 3889.02] I want to share with you -[3889.02 --> 3890.66] a portion of that. -[3891.28 --> 3892.26] It's a bit of a longer quote, -[3892.40 --> 3893.42] but it'll be on the screen -[3893.42 --> 3895.96] because I think it captures -[3895.96 --> 3897.58] exactly what we're -[3897.58 --> 3898.36] talking about here. -[3900.54 --> 3901.28] He says, -[3901.28 --> 3903.32] Meanwhile, -[3904.28 --> 3907.32] where is God? -[3909.08 --> 3910.74] This is one of the most -[3910.74 --> 3912.56] disquieting symptoms. -[3913.56 --> 3914.72] When you are happy, -[3914.92 --> 3916.08] so happy that you have -[3916.08 --> 3917.20] no sense of needing him, -[3917.42 --> 3918.48] so happy that you are -[3918.48 --> 3919.86] tempted to feel his claims -[3919.86 --> 3921.18] upon you as an interruption, -[3921.56 --> 3922.94] if you remember yourself -[3922.94 --> 3923.78] and turn to him -[3923.78 --> 3925.26] with gratitude and praise, -[3925.60 --> 3926.60] you will be, -[3926.68 --> 3927.56] or so it feels, -[3927.90 --> 3929.26] welcomed with open arms. -[3929.26 --> 3931.36] But go to him -[3931.36 --> 3932.56] when your need is desperate, -[3932.94 --> 3934.12] when all other help -[3934.12 --> 3934.76] is vain, -[3934.86 --> 3936.06] and what do you find? -[3936.56 --> 3938.62] A door slammed in your face -[3938.62 --> 3940.34] and a sound of a bolting -[3940.34 --> 3941.36] and double bolting -[3941.36 --> 3942.56] on the inside. -[3943.48 --> 3944.42] After that, -[3945.42 --> 3945.78] silence. -[3947.78 --> 3949.04] You may as well turn away. -[3950.30 --> 3951.60] The longer you wait, -[3951.60 --> 3952.84] the more emphatic -[3952.84 --> 3953.92] the silence becomes. -[3955.12 --> 3956.28] There are no lights -[3956.28 --> 3956.94] in the windows. -[3958.02 --> 3959.42] It might be an empty house. -[3960.56 --> 3961.92] Was it ever inhabited? -[3963.56 --> 3965.50] It seemed so once, -[3966.20 --> 3967.50] and that seeming -[3967.50 --> 3969.00] was as strong as this. -[3969.20 --> 3970.04] What can this mean? -[3970.24 --> 3971.56] Why is he so present, -[3971.64 --> 3972.78] a commander in our time -[3972.78 --> 3973.48] of prosperity, -[3973.86 --> 3975.34] and so very absent, -[3975.50 --> 3976.60] a help in a time -[3976.60 --> 3977.22] of trouble? -[3977.22 --> 3980.40] Not that I am, -[3980.70 --> 3981.64] I think, -[3982.14 --> 3983.04] in much danger -[3983.04 --> 3984.52] of ceasing to believe -[3984.52 --> 3985.18] in God. -[3985.74 --> 3987.06] The real danger -[3987.06 --> 3987.92] is of coming -[3987.92 --> 3988.66] to believe -[3988.66 --> 3990.30] such dreadful things -[3990.30 --> 3991.20] about him. -[3992.06 --> 3993.40] The conclusion I dread -[3993.40 --> 3994.00] is not, -[3994.34 --> 3995.18] so there's no God -[3995.18 --> 3995.94] after all, -[3996.28 --> 3996.58] but, -[3997.34 --> 3998.62] so this is what -[3998.62 --> 4000.14] God's really like. -[4001.10 --> 4002.22] Deceive yourself -[4002.22 --> 4003.58] no longer. -[4003.58 --> 4003.68] No longer. -[4007.22 --> 4009.30] some people -[4009.30 --> 4009.88] just have a way -[4009.88 --> 4010.42] with words. -[4014.34 --> 4015.94] But if you've mourned -[4015.94 --> 4019.38] a deeply loved person, -[4020.38 --> 4022.62] maybe you know this feeling. -[4025.74 --> 4026.30] Right? -[4026.34 --> 4027.50] That's what I'm talking about -[4027.50 --> 4028.34] when I say -[4028.34 --> 4029.20] that we have our own -[4029.20 --> 4030.26] internal challenges -[4030.26 --> 4031.22] to remembering -[4031.22 --> 4032.40] meanwhile. -[4032.40 --> 4036.06] And this is exactly -[4036.06 --> 4036.42] why, -[4036.56 --> 4037.46] in this moment, -[4037.60 --> 4038.92] in these feelings, -[4039.20 --> 4040.98] in these experienced -[4040.98 --> 4041.44] realities, -[4041.52 --> 4042.64] this is exactly why -[4042.64 --> 4043.78] it's so important -[4043.78 --> 4045.56] to surround ourselves -[4045.56 --> 4047.02] with gospel visions -[4047.02 --> 4048.36] and promises of God -[4048.36 --> 4049.56] when things are good. -[4050.38 --> 4050.60] Right? -[4050.60 --> 4051.40] Because the deeper -[4051.40 --> 4052.82] the well of experience -[4052.82 --> 4054.06] and knowledge of God, -[4054.40 --> 4056.22] the longer we can draw -[4056.22 --> 4057.70] strength from him -[4057.70 --> 4059.02] and from his spirit -[4059.02 --> 4059.78] within us -[4059.78 --> 4061.20] when things outside -[4061.20 --> 4062.28] are pure chaos. -[4063.40 --> 4064.72] And this is another reason -[4064.72 --> 4065.64] why it's so important -[4065.64 --> 4066.64] for us to wrestle -[4066.64 --> 4068.02] with God's sovereignty -[4068.02 --> 4069.00] and human suffering -[4069.00 --> 4069.74] right now -[4069.74 --> 4070.84] because the truth is -[4070.84 --> 4072.08] we can't put it off -[4072.08 --> 4073.00] because who knows -[4073.00 --> 4074.30] what tomorrow's going to bring. -[4074.72 --> 4075.50] Who knows if you -[4075.50 --> 4076.38] will have a tomorrow. -[4079.16 --> 4079.84] And so, -[4080.62 --> 4081.40] remembering -[4081.40 --> 4082.68] meanwhile -[4082.68 --> 4084.40] is critical. -[4085.00 --> 4085.56] Critical -[4085.56 --> 4087.08] if we're going to survive -[4087.08 --> 4087.96] and thrive -[4087.96 --> 4089.00] in times -[4089.00 --> 4090.32] of trial. -[4092.40 --> 4092.66] Now, -[4092.68 --> 4093.18] I mentioned -[4093.18 --> 4093.86] that meanwhile -[4093.86 --> 4095.94] means at the same time -[4095.94 --> 4097.26] or while this was happening. -[4097.42 --> 4099.04] It's an attempt -[4099.04 --> 4099.84] by the narrator -[4099.84 --> 4100.90] to get our eyes -[4100.90 --> 4102.48] to focus on something -[4102.48 --> 4103.10] beyond -[4103.10 --> 4104.56] what is obviously -[4104.56 --> 4105.68] before us. -[4107.58 --> 4108.62] Here's the truth -[4108.62 --> 4109.90] of a sovereign God. -[4110.00 --> 4110.94] Part of what makes him -[4110.94 --> 4111.74] God, in fact. -[4111.82 --> 4111.90] Right? -[4111.94 --> 4112.38] That's what I mean -[4112.38 --> 4113.00] when I said earlier -[4113.00 --> 4114.88] the godness of God. -[4114.88 --> 4117.34] the meanwhile -[4117.34 --> 4118.56] of God -[4118.56 --> 4120.48] isn't limited -[4120.48 --> 4122.52] to your present. -[4123.84 --> 4125.04] The meanwhile -[4125.04 --> 4125.58] of God -[4125.58 --> 4126.26] isn't limited -[4126.26 --> 4127.76] to your present -[4127.76 --> 4128.68] circumstance. -[4128.84 --> 4128.92] Right? -[4128.98 --> 4129.56] This god -[4129.56 --> 4131.06] stands above time -[4131.06 --> 4132.50] and apart from time -[4132.50 --> 4133.94] and so his activity -[4133.94 --> 4135.12] for the present -[4135.12 --> 4136.18] isn't limited -[4136.18 --> 4137.52] to the present. -[4138.66 --> 4139.26] The meanwhile -[4139.26 --> 4139.80] of God -[4139.80 --> 4140.50] isn't limited -[4140.50 --> 4141.28] to the present. -[4141.62 --> 4142.34] God's activity -[4142.34 --> 4143.36] for the present -[4143.36 --> 4144.30] isn't limited -[4144.30 --> 4145.40] to the here and now. -[4146.32 --> 4146.96] And I get this -[4146.96 --> 4147.64] from the story -[4147.64 --> 4148.68] of Joseph. -[4148.84 --> 4149.10] Notice -[4149.10 --> 4150.60] what that means. -[4151.52 --> 4152.38] At the very -[4152.38 --> 4153.54] beginning -[4153.54 --> 4158.68] they sat down -[4158.68 --> 4160.16] to eat their meal -[4160.16 --> 4161.02] and they looked up -[4161.02 --> 4161.66] and they saw -[4161.66 --> 4163.16] a caravan -[4163.16 --> 4164.14] of Ishmaelites -[4164.14 --> 4165.72] coming from Gilead. -[4166.64 --> 4166.96] Judah -[4166.96 --> 4168.32] said to -[4168.32 --> 4168.92] his -[4168.92 --> 4169.82] brothers -[4169.82 --> 4172.20] what will we gain -[4172.20 --> 4173.00] if we kill -[4173.00 --> 4173.60] our brother -[4173.60 --> 4174.66] and cover up -[4174.66 --> 4175.16] his blood. -[4176.06 --> 4176.80] Come let's -[4176.80 --> 4177.30] sell him -[4177.30 --> 4178.76] to the Ishmaelites. -[4179.12 --> 4179.54] And so -[4179.54 --> 4180.28] when the Midianite -[4180.28 --> 4181.00] merchants came -[4181.00 --> 4181.86] they sold him -[4181.86 --> 4183.26] for 20 shekels -[4183.26 --> 4183.70] of silver -[4183.70 --> 4185.26] to the Ishmaelites -[4185.26 --> 4185.90] who took him -[4185.90 --> 4186.84] to Egypt. -[4188.44 --> 4189.54] As we reflect -[4189.54 --> 4190.00] on this -[4190.00 --> 4190.50] remembering -[4190.50 --> 4190.98] meanwhile -[4190.98 --> 4191.52] in the midst -[4191.52 --> 4191.98] of suffering -[4191.98 --> 4193.10] take a moment -[4193.10 --> 4194.58] and zoom out -[4194.58 --> 4194.96] with me -[4194.96 --> 4195.32] we're going to do -[4195.32 --> 4195.60] a little bit -[4195.60 --> 4196.36] of biblical history -[4196.36 --> 4197.46] so we can see -[4197.46 --> 4198.38] what God is doing. -[4199.74 --> 4200.62] Who are -[4200.62 --> 4201.70] the Ishmaelites -[4201.70 --> 4203.06] and the Midianites? -[4204.26 --> 4205.10] To answer -[4205.10 --> 4205.72] that question -[4205.72 --> 4206.52] we actually -[4206.52 --> 4207.52] have to go back -[4207.52 --> 4208.96] and look at -[4208.96 --> 4209.48] the story -[4209.48 --> 4210.72] of Abraham. -[4211.92 --> 4213.38] The Midianites -[4213.38 --> 4215.04] are descendants -[4215.04 --> 4216.02] of Abraham -[4216.02 --> 4217.92] through his son -[4217.92 --> 4218.92] Keturah -[4218.92 --> 4221.02] and the Ishmaelites -[4221.02 --> 4221.84] are descendants -[4221.84 --> 4222.70] of Abraham -[4222.70 --> 4224.70] through Hagar. -[4226.48 --> 4228.18] The forefathers -[4228.18 --> 4229.54] of this group -[4229.54 --> 4231.56] are half brothers. -[4231.90 --> 4232.66] They are sons -[4232.66 --> 4233.72] of Abraham -[4233.72 --> 4234.78] and so what that means -[4234.78 --> 4235.98] is they're uncles -[4235.98 --> 4236.96] to Jacob. -[4238.64 --> 4238.96] And so -[4238.96 --> 4239.54] this group -[4239.54 --> 4240.14] of traitors -[4240.14 --> 4240.70] that come -[4240.70 --> 4241.54] are second -[4241.54 --> 4242.78] or third cousins -[4242.78 --> 4243.78] to Joseph -[4243.78 --> 4244.74] and his brothers. -[4245.56 --> 4246.08] And the point -[4246.08 --> 4246.46] that I want you -[4246.46 --> 4246.86] to see here -[4246.86 --> 4247.60] is not that -[4247.60 --> 4248.40] these brothers -[4248.40 --> 4249.12] would have possibly -[4249.12 --> 4250.26] known these traitors -[4250.26 --> 4251.60] and these slavers. -[4252.32 --> 4252.98] The point -[4252.98 --> 4254.18] is that God -[4254.18 --> 4255.52] is using them -[4255.52 --> 4256.82] for his purposes. -[4256.82 --> 4257.86] This is where -[4257.86 --> 4258.16] I want you -[4258.16 --> 4258.60] to do this -[4258.60 --> 4259.18] biblical history. -[4259.28 --> 4259.80] Track with me. -[4260.58 --> 4261.22] Ishmael -[4261.22 --> 4261.88] is born -[4261.88 --> 4262.64] to Abraham -[4262.64 --> 4263.86] through Hagar -[4263.86 --> 4264.58] which is -[4264.58 --> 4265.16] Sarah's -[4265.16 --> 4265.92] maidservant -[4265.92 --> 4266.98] to provide -[4266.98 --> 4267.70] an heir -[4267.70 --> 4268.58] for Abraham -[4268.58 --> 4270.02] before Isaac -[4270.02 --> 4270.86] was born. -[4271.32 --> 4272.06] In the story -[4272.06 --> 4273.86] that Sarah -[4273.86 --> 4274.96] and Abraham -[4274.96 --> 4275.64] are trying -[4275.64 --> 4276.14] to take -[4276.14 --> 4276.70] the fulfillment -[4276.70 --> 4277.30] of God's -[4277.30 --> 4278.24] blessing to them -[4278.24 --> 4278.76] his promise -[4278.76 --> 4279.06] to them -[4279.06 --> 4280.24] into their own hands. -[4281.12 --> 4281.60] And so Sarah -[4281.60 --> 4282.06] says -[4282.06 --> 4283.94] lie with my -[4283.94 --> 4285.46] slave Hagar -[4285.46 --> 4286.44] and she -[4286.44 --> 4287.18] might provide -[4287.18 --> 4287.56] a son -[4287.56 --> 4288.00] for you. -[4288.54 --> 4289.50] Now at best -[4289.50 --> 4290.40] had that all -[4290.40 --> 4291.00] worked out -[4291.00 --> 4291.78] Ishmael -[4291.78 --> 4292.32] would have been -[4292.32 --> 4292.78] considered -[4292.78 --> 4293.82] a second tier -[4293.82 --> 4294.50] heir -[4294.50 --> 4295.10] especially -[4295.10 --> 4296.28] when Abraham -[4296.28 --> 4297.14] does go on -[4297.14 --> 4297.90] to have a son -[4297.90 --> 4298.74] with Sarah -[4298.74 --> 4299.26] we know him -[4299.26 --> 4299.76] as Isaac. -[4301.02 --> 4301.66] The story -[4301.66 --> 4302.74] tells us -[4302.74 --> 4303.36] then that -[4303.36 --> 4304.16] Ishmael -[4304.16 --> 4305.02] and Hagar -[4305.02 --> 4306.34] were eventually -[4306.34 --> 4307.84] rejected by Abraham -[4307.84 --> 4309.18] and in Genesis -[4309.18 --> 4309.80] 21 -[4309.80 --> 4311.50] we read the story -[4311.50 --> 4313.20] of Isaac's -[4313.20 --> 4314.04] weaning party -[4314.04 --> 4315.62] and so -[4315.62 --> 4316.52] weaning -[4316.52 --> 4317.20] in the ancient -[4317.20 --> 4317.68] Near East -[4317.68 --> 4318.00] would have -[4318.00 --> 4318.30] happened -[4318.30 --> 4318.92] around three -[4318.92 --> 4319.28] or four -[4319.28 --> 4319.88] years old -[4319.88 --> 4322.08] when Ishmael -[4322.08 --> 4322.86] makes fun -[4322.86 --> 4323.42] of Isaac -[4323.42 --> 4324.58] and Sarah -[4324.58 --> 4325.04] hears -[4325.04 --> 4326.04] and so she -[4326.04 --> 4326.86] tells Abraham -[4326.86 --> 4327.68] get rid of -[4327.68 --> 4328.18] that slave -[4328.18 --> 4328.42] woman -[4328.42 --> 4329.16] and her son -[4329.16 --> 4329.80] for that -[4329.80 --> 4330.56] slave woman's -[4330.56 --> 4330.98] son will -[4330.98 --> 4331.86] never share -[4331.86 --> 4332.54] the inheritance -[4332.54 --> 4333.14] with my -[4333.14 --> 4334.18] son Isaac. -[4335.08 --> 4335.70] And we -[4335.70 --> 4336.54] read in that -[4336.54 --> 4337.32] story in -[4337.32 --> 4338.06] Genesis 21 -[4338.06 --> 4339.98] that Abraham -[4339.98 --> 4341.14] is distressed -[4341.14 --> 4342.12] at the prospect -[4342.12 --> 4343.12] but God -[4343.12 --> 4343.60] comes -[4343.60 --> 4344.26] and speaks -[4344.26 --> 4344.78] to him -[4344.78 --> 4345.50] and says -[4345.50 --> 4346.42] listen to -[4346.42 --> 4346.98] whatever Sarah -[4346.98 --> 4347.50] tells you -[4347.50 --> 4348.32] because it is -[4348.32 --> 4349.14] through Isaac -[4349.14 --> 4349.88] that your -[4349.88 --> 4350.36] offspring -[4350.36 --> 4351.10] will be -[4351.10 --> 4351.78] reckoned. -[4352.16 --> 4352.52] God is -[4352.52 --> 4352.90] basically -[4352.90 --> 4353.70] telling Abraham -[4353.70 --> 4354.48] that he -[4354.48 --> 4354.88] has been -[4354.88 --> 4355.22] elected -[4355.22 --> 4355.96] and ordained -[4355.96 --> 4356.36] and that -[4356.36 --> 4357.06] Isaac -[4357.06 --> 4358.34] not Ishmael -[4358.34 --> 4359.38] will continue -[4359.38 --> 4359.94] that line -[4359.94 --> 4360.26] and will -[4360.26 --> 4360.72] form his -[4360.72 --> 4361.08] people. -[4361.50 --> 4362.08] Ishmael -[4362.08 --> 4362.48] is an -[4362.48 --> 4362.96] outsider -[4362.96 --> 4364.24] but the -[4364.24 --> 4364.58] story doesn't -[4364.58 --> 4365.12] stop there. -[4365.72 --> 4366.40] God doesn't -[4366.40 --> 4367.36] leave Ishmael -[4367.36 --> 4368.00] without a -[4368.00 --> 4369.18] second promise -[4369.18 --> 4370.18] and as -[4370.18 --> 4370.52] Hagar -[4370.52 --> 4371.26] and Ishmael -[4371.26 --> 4372.18] are wandering -[4372.18 --> 4372.66] through the -[4372.66 --> 4372.96] wilderness -[4372.96 --> 4373.56] about to -[4373.56 --> 4373.88] die -[4373.88 --> 4375.20] God reveals -[4375.20 --> 4375.64] to her -[4375.64 --> 4376.24] leads them -[4376.24 --> 4376.86] to a -[4376.86 --> 4377.24] well -[4377.24 --> 4378.40] and promises -[4378.40 --> 4379.18] her that -[4379.18 --> 4379.62] her son -[4379.62 --> 4380.32] Ishmael -[4380.32 --> 4380.90] will be -[4380.90 --> 4381.42] made into -[4381.42 --> 4381.80] a great -[4381.80 --> 4382.18] nation. -[4382.96 --> 4383.30] And the -[4383.30 --> 4383.98] text tells -[4383.98 --> 4384.32] us in -[4384.32 --> 4385.00] Genesis 21 -[4385.00 --> 4385.86] 20 that -[4385.86 --> 4386.66] God was -[4386.66 --> 4387.26] with the -[4387.26 --> 4388.00] boy as -[4388.00 --> 4388.40] he grew -[4388.40 --> 4388.68] up. -[4390.00 --> 4390.72] And so -[4390.72 --> 4391.44] here is -[4391.44 --> 4391.62] what we -[4391.62 --> 4392.00] can see -[4392.00 --> 4392.58] right an -[4392.58 --> 4393.30] example of -[4393.30 --> 4394.04] God's -[4394.04 --> 4394.74] common -[4394.74 --> 4395.88] grace to -[4395.88 --> 4396.88] all people -[4396.88 --> 4397.86] that even -[4397.86 --> 4398.60] though God -[4398.60 --> 4399.16] hadn't -[4399.16 --> 4399.76] elected -[4399.76 --> 4400.54] Ishmael -[4400.54 --> 4400.84] to be -[4400.84 --> 4401.24] the father -[4401.24 --> 4401.62] of his -[4401.62 --> 4402.06] people -[4402.06 --> 4402.74] because that -[4402.74 --> 4403.22] remains with -[4403.22 --> 4403.62] Isaac -[4403.62 --> 4404.96] God still -[4404.96 --> 4405.68] graciously -[4405.68 --> 4406.82] extends himself -[4406.82 --> 4407.32] and a -[4407.32 --> 4408.20] blessing to -[4408.20 --> 4409.14] Ishmael. -[4410.04 --> 4410.34] And what's -[4410.34 --> 4411.10] more as we -[4411.10 --> 4411.54] read that -[4411.54 --> 4412.08] story in -[4412.08 --> 4412.82] chapter 21 -[4412.82 --> 4414.78] while Hagar -[4414.78 --> 4415.78] and Ishmael -[4415.78 --> 4416.60] are living -[4416.60 --> 4417.00] in the -[4417.00 --> 4417.88] desert we -[4417.88 --> 4418.30] read that -[4418.30 --> 4419.16] she goes -[4419.16 --> 4420.00] to Egypt -[4420.00 --> 4421.16] to get -[4421.16 --> 4421.72] a wife -[4421.72 --> 4422.58] for her -[4422.58 --> 4422.88] son. -[4424.56 --> 4424.90] You start -[4424.90 --> 4425.38] seeing how -[4425.38 --> 4426.04] this meanwhile -[4426.04 --> 4426.44] could be -[4426.44 --> 4426.80] stacking? -[4427.72 --> 4427.82] Right? -[4427.90 --> 4428.20] Could it -[4428.20 --> 4428.70] be that -[4428.70 --> 4429.22] the family -[4429.22 --> 4429.80] connection -[4429.80 --> 4431.24] from the -[4431.24 --> 4431.78] time of -[4431.78 --> 4432.26] Abraham -[4432.26 --> 4433.74] and Ishmael -[4433.74 --> 4434.70] the family -[4434.70 --> 4435.16] connection -[4435.16 --> 4436.06] to Egypt -[4436.06 --> 4437.06] is why -[4437.06 --> 4437.64] these -[4437.64 --> 4438.22] descendants -[4438.22 --> 4438.72] are now -[4438.72 --> 4439.56] traveling to -[4439.56 --> 4440.08] Egypt to -[4440.08 --> 4440.34] make a -[4440.34 --> 4440.60] trade? -[4441.88 --> 4442.52] Could this -[4442.52 --> 4443.48] already be -[4443.48 --> 4443.96] God's -[4443.96 --> 4444.56] meanwhile -[4444.56 --> 4446.02] starting in -[4446.02 --> 4446.44] the story -[4446.44 --> 4446.90] of Joseph? -[4448.12 --> 4448.90] I think -[4448.90 --> 4449.44] it is. -[4451.24 --> 4451.84] Right? -[4451.88 --> 4452.20] You see -[4452.20 --> 4452.64] what's going -[4452.64 --> 4453.20] on here. -[4453.76 --> 4454.34] Already -[4454.34 --> 4455.26] with Ishmael -[4455.26 --> 4455.86] and Isaac -[4455.86 --> 4456.40] and Abraham -[4456.40 --> 4457.14] God -[4457.14 --> 4458.08] is working -[4458.08 --> 4459.28] on the -[4459.28 --> 4459.80] meanwhile -[4459.80 --> 4460.50] of the -[4460.50 --> 4460.76] Joseph -[4460.76 --> 4461.28] story. -[4462.08 --> 4462.78] Generations -[4462.78 --> 4463.26] before -[4463.26 --> 4464.06] God -[4464.06 --> 4464.64] lays the -[4464.64 --> 4465.32] groundwork -[4465.32 --> 4465.78] for his -[4465.78 --> 4466.34] provision -[4466.34 --> 4467.16] for Joseph -[4467.16 --> 4467.84] and the -[4467.84 --> 4468.28] people of -[4468.28 --> 4468.58] Israel -[4468.58 --> 4469.14] during the -[4469.14 --> 4469.44] famine. -[4470.44 --> 4470.74] Joseph -[4470.74 --> 4471.78] is in -[4471.78 --> 4472.12] the midst -[4472.12 --> 4472.44] of a -[4472.44 --> 4472.90] cistern -[4472.90 --> 4473.36] surrounded -[4473.36 --> 4473.94] by brothers -[4473.94 --> 4474.34] who want -[4474.34 --> 4474.74] to kill -[4474.74 --> 4475.02] him -[4475.02 --> 4475.60] and a -[4475.60 --> 4475.92] sovereign -[4475.92 --> 4476.34] God -[4476.34 --> 4476.72] had been -[4476.72 --> 4477.10] working -[4477.10 --> 4477.74] towards -[4477.74 --> 4478.16] this -[4478.16 --> 4478.72] for -[4478.72 --> 4479.34] generations. -[4479.34 --> 4483.04] And here's -[4483.04 --> 4483.34] the thing -[4483.34 --> 4485.40] about -[4485.40 --> 4485.90] remembering -[4485.90 --> 4486.74] meanwhile -[4486.74 --> 4487.40] in the -[4487.40 --> 4487.58] midst -[4487.58 --> 4487.82] of our -[4487.82 --> 4488.18] present -[4488.18 --> 4488.94] suffering. -[4489.16 --> 4489.64] God -[4489.64 --> 4490.14] isn't -[4490.14 --> 4490.58] bound -[4490.58 --> 4491.02] by -[4491.02 --> 4492.00] time -[4492.00 --> 4492.50] or by -[4492.50 --> 4493.44] circumstance. -[4493.74 --> 4493.88] God -[4493.88 --> 4494.54] doesn't -[4494.54 --> 4495.12] react -[4495.12 --> 4495.76] to the -[4495.76 --> 4496.14] evils -[4496.14 --> 4496.38] that -[4496.38 --> 4496.76] befall -[4496.76 --> 4497.10] us -[4497.10 --> 4497.42] and then -[4497.42 --> 4497.62] go -[4497.62 --> 4498.10] okay -[4498.10 --> 4498.38] how am -[4498.38 --> 4498.44] I -[4498.44 --> 4498.56] going -[4498.56 --> 4498.66] to -[4498.66 --> 4498.84] figure -[4498.84 --> 4499.10] this -[4499.10 --> 4499.38] out? -[4499.56 --> 4499.78] Like -[4499.78 --> 4499.88] he -[4499.88 --> 4500.08] didn't -[4500.08 --> 4500.22] know -[4500.22 --> 4500.36] what -[4500.36 --> 4500.50] was -[4500.50 --> 4500.60] going -[4500.60 --> 4500.70] to -[4500.70 --> 4501.08] happen -[4501.08 --> 4501.60] until -[4501.60 --> 4501.76] it -[4501.76 --> 4502.06] happened -[4502.06 --> 4502.22] and -[4502.22 --> 4502.44] he -[4502.44 --> 4502.60] has -[4502.60 --> 4502.70] to -[4502.70 --> 4502.84] come -[4502.84 --> 4502.96] up -[4502.96 --> 4503.06] with -[4503.06 --> 4503.20] a -[4503.20 --> 4503.60] new -[4503.60 --> 4503.92] plan. -[4504.08 --> 4504.46] That's -[4504.46 --> 4504.72] not -[4504.72 --> 4504.98] what -[4504.98 --> 4505.44] sovereignty -[4505.44 --> 4506.26] means. -[4506.40 --> 4506.70] God's -[4506.70 --> 4507.06] sovereignty -[4507.06 --> 4507.48] means -[4507.48 --> 4508.06] that before -[4508.06 --> 4508.76] the creation -[4508.76 --> 4509.14] of the -[4509.14 --> 4509.44] world -[4509.44 --> 4510.06] God -[4510.06 --> 4510.32] had -[4510.32 --> 4510.68] this -[4510.68 --> 4511.22] story -[4511.22 --> 4511.72] in -[4511.72 --> 4511.94] his -[4511.94 --> 4512.26] mind. -[4512.42 --> 4512.78] Sovereignty -[4512.78 --> 4513.16] means -[4513.16 --> 4514.06] that whatever -[4514.06 --> 4514.70] happens -[4514.70 --> 4515.22] to us -[4515.22 --> 4515.70] today -[4515.70 --> 4516.12] God -[4516.12 --> 4517.14] anticipated -[4517.14 --> 4517.88] prepared -[4517.88 --> 4518.28] for -[4518.28 --> 4518.78] and -[4518.78 --> 4519.64] overcame -[4519.64 --> 4520.14] in his -[4520.14 --> 4520.52] mind -[4520.52 --> 4520.90] before -[4520.90 --> 4521.38] you -[4521.38 --> 4521.64] were -[4521.64 --> 4522.18] even -[4522.18 --> 4522.58] born. -[4523.92 --> 4524.54] That's -[4524.54 --> 4525.30] the meanwhile -[4525.30 --> 4525.96] of God -[4525.96 --> 4526.30] and it -[4526.30 --> 4526.60] isn't -[4526.60 --> 4526.90] just -[4526.90 --> 4527.60] concurrent -[4527.60 --> 4528.26] to your -[4528.26 --> 4528.94] circumstances -[4528.94 --> 4529.70] it is -[4529.70 --> 4530.46] eternal -[4530.46 --> 4530.96] current. -[4531.86 --> 4532.08] That's -[4532.08 --> 4532.32] the word -[4532.32 --> 4532.62] I made -[4532.62 --> 4532.82] up. -[4534.24 --> 4534.56] It is -[4534.56 --> 4535.04] eternal -[4535.04 --> 4535.40] current. -[4535.48 --> 4535.76] The idea -[4535.76 --> 4536.10] is this -[4536.10 --> 4536.76] that a -[4536.76 --> 4537.12] sovereign -[4537.12 --> 4537.56] God -[4537.56 --> 4538.12] knows -[4538.12 --> 4538.44] all -[4538.44 --> 4538.80] things -[4538.80 --> 4539.06] and -[4539.06 --> 4539.58] ordains -[4539.58 --> 4540.14] all -[4540.14 --> 4540.44] things. -[4540.76 --> 4541.20] Everything -[4541.20 --> 4541.90] that comes -[4541.90 --> 4542.56] to pass -[4542.56 --> 4542.86] comes -[4542.86 --> 4543.40] to pass -[4543.40 --> 4543.72] as a -[4543.72 --> 4544.04] result -[4544.04 --> 4544.20] of -[4544.20 --> 4544.34] his -[4544.34 --> 4544.76] active -[4544.76 --> 4545.16] and -[4545.16 --> 4545.52] passive -[4545.52 --> 4545.84] will -[4545.84 --> 4546.40] working -[4546.40 --> 4546.78] together -[4546.78 --> 4546.98] to -[4546.98 --> 4547.38] accomplish -[4547.38 --> 4547.64] his -[4547.64 --> 4548.02] purposes. -[4548.58 --> 4548.86] Because -[4548.86 --> 4549.44] God -[4549.44 --> 4550.04] stands -[4550.04 --> 4550.44] above -[4550.44 --> 4551.20] time -[4551.20 --> 4551.42] and -[4551.42 --> 4551.80] apart -[4551.80 --> 4552.08] from -[4552.08 --> 4552.48] time -[4552.48 --> 4552.94] there -[4552.94 --> 4553.20] is -[4553.20 --> 4553.48] no -[4553.48 --> 4553.86] time -[4553.86 --> 4554.08] where -[4554.08 --> 4554.34] God -[4554.34 --> 4554.52] is -[4554.52 --> 4554.84] not. -[4555.94 --> 4556.14] The -[4556.14 --> 4556.54] past -[4556.54 --> 4556.74] and -[4556.74 --> 4556.88] the -[4556.88 --> 4557.16] present -[4557.16 --> 4557.36] and -[4557.36 --> 4557.50] the -[4557.50 --> 4557.82] future -[4557.82 --> 4558.44] are -[4558.44 --> 4559.34] eternal -[4559.34 --> 4559.98] current -[4559.98 --> 4560.66] to -[4560.66 --> 4561.06] God's -[4561.06 --> 4561.34] self. -[4562.96 --> 4563.26] What -[4563.26 --> 4563.56] God -[4563.56 --> 4563.76] is -[4563.76 --> 4564.12] doing -[4564.12 --> 4564.46] right -[4564.46 --> 4564.94] now -[4564.94 --> 4565.56] might -[4565.56 --> 4565.88] be -[4565.88 --> 4566.46] preparing -[4566.46 --> 4566.80] you -[4566.80 --> 4567.30] for what -[4567.30 --> 4567.58] God -[4567.58 --> 4567.80] will -[4567.80 --> 4568.04] do -[4568.04 --> 4568.42] then. -[4569.54 --> 4569.86] What -[4569.86 --> 4570.16] God -[4570.16 --> 4570.48] did -[4570.48 --> 4570.90] in your -[4570.90 --> 4571.42] grandparents' -[4571.68 --> 4571.96] lives -[4571.96 --> 4572.32] together -[4572.32 --> 4572.88] might -[4572.88 --> 4573.12] have -[4573.12 --> 4573.40] been -[4573.40 --> 4573.76] for the -[4573.76 --> 4574.14] benefit -[4574.14 --> 4574.56] of your -[4574.56 --> 4575.18] grandkids. -[4576.68 --> 4577.24] The -[4577.24 --> 4577.74] meanwhile -[4577.74 --> 4578.64] of God's -[4578.64 --> 4579.36] activity in -[4579.36 --> 4579.76] the world -[4579.76 --> 4580.32] is for the -[4580.32 --> 4581.08] here and -[4581.08 --> 4581.46] now, -[4581.58 --> 4581.86] for the -[4581.86 --> 4582.58] there and -[4582.58 --> 4582.88] then, -[4583.00 --> 4583.56] and for the -[4583.56 --> 4583.86] yet to -[4583.86 --> 4584.14] come. -[4585.28 --> 4585.86] That's the -[4585.86 --> 4586.40] promise of -[4586.40 --> 4586.82] God in -[4586.82 --> 4587.42] Romans 8 -[4587.42 --> 4588.00] when it -[4588.00 --> 4588.42] says that -[4588.42 --> 4589.16] God works -[4589.16 --> 4589.94] all things -[4589.94 --> 4590.30] for the -[4590.30 --> 4590.72] good of -[4590.72 --> 4591.18] those who -[4591.18 --> 4591.64] love him, -[4591.70 --> 4591.94] who have -[4591.94 --> 4592.46] been called -[4592.46 --> 4593.42] according to -[4593.42 --> 4594.58] his purposes. -[4595.12 --> 4595.30] All -[4595.30 --> 4595.78] things -[4595.78 --> 4596.40] means -[4596.40 --> 4596.84] all -[4596.84 --> 4597.54] todays -[4597.54 --> 4597.98] and all -[4597.98 --> 4598.90] yesterdays -[4598.90 --> 4599.34] and all -[4599.34 --> 4599.80] days to -[4599.80 --> 4600.08] come -[4600.08 --> 4601.52] in your -[4601.52 --> 4602.16] life and -[4602.16 --> 4602.40] in the -[4602.40 --> 4602.74] lives of -[4602.74 --> 4603.04] the people -[4603.04 --> 4603.62] around you -[4603.62 --> 4604.42] and all -[4604.42 --> 4604.78] the things -[4604.78 --> 4605.06] that you -[4605.06 --> 4605.52] face and -[4605.52 --> 4605.74] in all -[4605.74 --> 4606.04] the things -[4606.04 --> 4606.38] that happen -[4606.38 --> 4607.00] around you. -[4607.58 --> 4608.02] All the -[4608.02 --> 4608.48] people that -[4608.48 --> 4609.00] led up to -[4609.00 --> 4609.58] your life -[4609.58 --> 4610.14] and all -[4610.14 --> 4610.46] the people -[4610.46 --> 4610.74] who will -[4610.74 --> 4611.22] flow out -[4611.22 --> 4611.60] of your -[4611.60 --> 4612.00] life. -[4612.86 --> 4612.96] All -[4612.96 --> 4613.36] things -[4613.36 --> 4613.76] means -[4613.76 --> 4614.48] all -[4614.48 --> 4614.88] things. -[4616.90 --> 4617.10] And in -[4617.10 --> 4617.22] fact, -[4617.32 --> 4617.62] in this -[4617.62 --> 4618.02] story, -[4619.06 --> 4619.42] the same -[4619.42 --> 4619.90] is true -[4619.90 --> 4620.46] if we go -[4620.46 --> 4620.76] the other -[4620.76 --> 4620.94] way. -[4621.02 --> 4621.30] The same -[4621.30 --> 4621.78] is true -[4621.78 --> 4622.38] of the -[4622.38 --> 4622.98] Midianites -[4622.98 --> 4623.48] that God -[4623.48 --> 4624.48] used to -[4624.48 --> 4625.48] bring Joseph -[4625.48 --> 4626.00] to Egypt -[4626.00 --> 4626.40] just in -[4626.40 --> 4626.66] the other -[4626.66 --> 4627.12] direction, -[4627.32 --> 4627.90] into the -[4627.90 --> 4628.58] future. -[4629.50 --> 4629.84] In the -[4629.84 --> 4630.12] book of -[4630.12 --> 4630.62] Numbers, -[4631.60 --> 4632.00] as the -[4632.00 --> 4632.50] people are -[4632.50 --> 4633.40] preparing to -[4633.40 --> 4633.90] enter the -[4633.90 --> 4634.62] promised land, -[4634.72 --> 4635.12] and so get -[4635.12 --> 4635.50] this, -[4635.66 --> 4636.08] if you're -[4636.08 --> 4636.38] doing the -[4636.38 --> 4636.70] math in -[4636.70 --> 4636.96] your head, -[4637.00 --> 4637.26] this is -[4637.26 --> 4637.96] some 500 -[4637.96 --> 4639.12] years after -[4639.12 --> 4639.70] the story -[4639.70 --> 4640.36] of Joseph. -[4641.88 --> 4642.84] 500 years -[4642.84 --> 4643.30] after the -[4643.30 --> 4643.64] story of -[4643.64 --> 4643.92] Joseph, -[4644.08 --> 4644.62] the Israelites -[4644.62 --> 4645.36] are commanded -[4645.36 --> 4646.00] by God -[4646.00 --> 4646.92] to treat -[4646.92 --> 4647.72] the Midianites -[4647.72 --> 4648.36] as enemies -[4648.36 --> 4649.14] and to -[4649.14 --> 4649.56] kill them, -[4649.62 --> 4649.92] to take -[4649.92 --> 4650.56] vengeance on -[4650.56 --> 4651.06] the Midianites, -[4651.14 --> 4651.60] to war -[4651.60 --> 4652.22] against them -[4652.22 --> 4652.82] and to -[4652.82 --> 4653.24] burn all -[4653.24 --> 4653.74] their towns. -[4654.82 --> 4655.24] In the -[4655.24 --> 4655.56] book of -[4655.56 --> 4656.06] Judges, -[4656.22 --> 4656.64] under the -[4656.64 --> 4657.20] leadership of -[4657.20 --> 4657.56] Gideon, -[4657.92 --> 4658.68] the Midianites -[4658.68 --> 4659.02] are a -[4659.02 --> 4659.96] constant thorn -[4659.96 --> 4660.28] in the -[4660.28 --> 4660.70] side of -[4660.70 --> 4661.00] God's -[4661.00 --> 4661.28] people. -[4662.86 --> 4663.60] They're a -[4663.60 --> 4664.84] direct enemy -[4664.84 --> 4665.38] and the -[4665.38 --> 4666.60] over ruler -[4666.60 --> 4667.24] of them -[4667.24 --> 4667.90] for seven -[4667.90 --> 4668.24] years. -[4668.24 --> 4669.36] These people -[4669.36 --> 4670.40] are the -[4670.40 --> 4671.48] enemies of -[4671.48 --> 4671.84] God. -[4673.16 --> 4673.58] And yet, -[4673.98 --> 4675.12] in Joseph's -[4675.12 --> 4675.70] story, -[4676.08 --> 4676.96] our sovereign -[4676.96 --> 4678.30] God uses -[4678.30 --> 4679.20] would-be -[4679.20 --> 4679.96] one-day -[4679.96 --> 4680.76] enemies to -[4680.76 --> 4681.30] accomplish -[4681.30 --> 4681.96] the saving -[4681.96 --> 4682.28] of his -[4682.28 --> 4682.70] people. -[4684.66 --> 4685.18] That's -[4685.18 --> 4685.42] what's -[4685.42 --> 4685.76] happening -[4685.76 --> 4686.20] in the -[4686.20 --> 4686.74] meanwhile. -[4688.54 --> 4689.06] Jacob is -[4689.06 --> 4689.30] in the -[4689.30 --> 4689.66] midst of -[4689.66 --> 4690.08] a deep -[4690.08 --> 4690.58] suffering -[4690.58 --> 4691.30] as he -[4691.30 --> 4691.64] mourns -[4691.64 --> 4692.12] the loss -[4692.12 --> 4692.40] of his -[4692.40 --> 4692.66] son, -[4692.82 --> 4693.22] and the -[4693.22 --> 4693.64] anguish -[4693.64 --> 4693.94] of his -[4693.94 --> 4694.40] soul is -[4694.40 --> 4694.68] clear. -[4694.96 --> 4695.46] You heard -[4695.46 --> 4695.58] it. -[4695.76 --> 4696.26] All his -[4696.26 --> 4696.72] sons and -[4696.72 --> 4696.98] daughters -[4696.98 --> 4697.40] came to -[4697.40 --> 4697.78] comfort him, -[4697.82 --> 4698.02] but he -[4698.02 --> 4698.84] refused to -[4698.84 --> 4699.46] be comforted. -[4699.92 --> 4700.26] No, -[4700.34 --> 4700.62] he said, -[4700.70 --> 4701.08] I will -[4701.08 --> 4701.86] continue to -[4701.86 --> 4702.22] mourn -[4702.22 --> 4702.82] until I -[4702.82 --> 4703.42] join my -[4703.42 --> 4704.28] son in -[4704.28 --> 4704.72] the grave. -[4704.72 --> 4705.66] So his -[4705.66 --> 4706.14] father -[4706.14 --> 4707.78] wept for -[4707.78 --> 4708.10] him. -[4709.52 --> 4710.28] For the -[4710.28 --> 4710.74] rest of -[4710.74 --> 4711.44] his life, -[4711.66 --> 4712.34] Jacob thinks -[4712.34 --> 4712.78] he will -[4712.78 --> 4713.54] be in -[4713.54 --> 4713.96] agony. -[4714.94 --> 4715.58] The darkness -[4715.58 --> 4716.14] has come, -[4716.44 --> 4717.20] the valley -[4717.20 --> 4717.54] of the -[4717.54 --> 4718.10] shadow of -[4718.10 --> 4718.68] death is -[4718.68 --> 4719.04] deep, -[4719.18 --> 4719.60] and he -[4719.60 --> 4720.52] sees no -[4720.52 --> 4722.14] way out. -[4723.42 --> 4724.28] And yet, -[4726.42 --> 4727.48] off to -[4727.48 --> 4728.10] the side -[4728.10 --> 4728.82] of Jacob's -[4728.82 --> 4729.18] present -[4729.18 --> 4730.08] experience of -[4730.08 --> 4730.82] mourning and -[4730.82 --> 4731.62] pain and -[4731.62 --> 4732.08] suffering, -[4732.48 --> 4733.10] off to the -[4733.10 --> 4733.48] side, -[4733.48 --> 4734.12] we hear -[4734.12 --> 4734.94] a whisper. -[4736.28 --> 4736.62] Meanwhile, -[4737.70 --> 4738.82] meanwhile, -[4739.20 --> 4739.94] the Midianites -[4739.94 --> 4740.80] sold Joseph -[4740.80 --> 4741.38] in Egypt -[4741.38 --> 4742.44] to Potiphar, -[4742.82 --> 4743.12] one of -[4743.12 --> 4743.40] Pharaoh's -[4743.40 --> 4743.82] officials, -[4744.08 --> 4744.50] the captain -[4744.50 --> 4745.40] of the -[4745.40 --> 4745.66] guard. -[4747.10 --> 4747.40] Jacob -[4747.40 --> 4748.32] can't -[4748.32 --> 4749.28] see it. -[4750.14 --> 4750.54] And his -[4750.54 --> 4751.00] suffering, -[4751.16 --> 4751.48] honestly, -[4751.82 --> 4752.60] is impossible -[4752.60 --> 4753.52] to imagine -[4753.52 --> 4754.38] unless you -[4754.38 --> 4754.98] yourself have -[4754.98 --> 4755.84] lost a -[4755.84 --> 4756.16] child. -[4756.50 --> 4756.82] But the -[4756.82 --> 4757.50] God hint -[4757.50 --> 4758.30] is right -[4758.30 --> 4758.62] there. -[4759.48 --> 4760.02] Meanwhile, -[4760.78 --> 4761.60] meanwhile, -[4762.04 --> 4762.72] God is -[4762.72 --> 4763.16] placing -[4763.16 --> 4764.02] Joseph in -[4764.02 --> 4764.82] exactly the -[4764.82 --> 4765.42] right place -[4765.42 --> 4766.24] to save -[4766.24 --> 4766.88] his people -[4766.88 --> 4767.58] when the -[4767.58 --> 4768.30] famine comes. -[4768.88 --> 4769.24] Because, -[4769.34 --> 4769.52] again, -[4769.58 --> 4769.98] if you know -[4769.98 --> 4770.52] the story, -[4770.90 --> 4771.80] from Potiphar's -[4771.80 --> 4772.12] house, -[4772.26 --> 4773.04] Joseph rises -[4773.04 --> 4773.86] to Pharaoh's -[4773.86 --> 4774.12] house. -[4774.44 --> 4774.76] And in -[4774.76 --> 4775.14] Pharaoh's -[4775.14 --> 4775.38] house, -[4775.52 --> 4776.18] Joseph becomes -[4776.18 --> 4776.72] second in -[4776.72 --> 4777.66] command over -[4777.66 --> 4778.14] all of -[4778.14 --> 4778.38] Egypt, -[4778.54 --> 4779.12] second only -[4779.12 --> 4779.68] to Pharaoh -[4779.68 --> 4780.36] himself. -[4780.64 --> 4781.00] And from -[4781.00 --> 4781.76] that position -[4781.76 --> 4782.78] of prestige -[4782.78 --> 4783.82] and power -[4783.82 --> 4784.50] in Egypt, -[4784.80 --> 4785.50] God uses -[4785.50 --> 4786.54] Joseph for -[4786.54 --> 4787.12] the saving -[4787.12 --> 4788.00] of many -[4788.00 --> 4788.86] lives. -[4789.46 --> 4790.40] A story -[4790.40 --> 4790.98] that began -[4790.98 --> 4791.46] all the way -[4791.46 --> 4791.92] back with -[4791.92 --> 4792.52] Abraham's -[4792.52 --> 4792.88] children. -[4793.24 --> 4793.84] Ishmael -[4793.84 --> 4794.06] and -[4794.06 --> 4794.54] Keturah. -[4794.78 --> 4795.58] A story -[4795.58 --> 4796.36] that begins -[4796.36 --> 4797.00] with the -[4797.00 --> 4797.72] sovereign God -[4797.72 --> 4798.72] before even -[4798.72 --> 4799.60] time began. -[4800.46 --> 4801.24] That's the -[4801.24 --> 4801.94] promise of -[4801.94 --> 4802.46] remembering -[4802.46 --> 4803.34] meanwhile. -[4806.20 --> 4806.86] Sometimes -[4806.86 --> 4808.18] we sing or -[4808.18 --> 4808.66] we have sung -[4808.66 --> 4809.16] in the past -[4809.16 --> 4810.18] a song called -[4810.18 --> 4810.68] He Knows -[4810.68 --> 4811.16] My Name. -[4811.22 --> 4811.40] And in -[4811.40 --> 4811.88] that song -[4811.88 --> 4812.60] there's a -[4812.60 --> 4813.02] line that -[4813.02 --> 4813.20] says, -[4813.62 --> 4814.08] before even -[4814.08 --> 4815.14] time began, -[4815.54 --> 4816.28] my life -[4816.28 --> 4817.26] was in -[4817.26 --> 4817.70] his hands. -[4817.70 --> 4820.08] this is -[4820.08 --> 4820.60] based on -[4820.60 --> 4821.82] Psalm 84 -[4821.82 --> 4822.64] and ideas -[4822.64 --> 4823.16] from Ephesians -[4823.16 --> 4823.68] 1 and -[4823.68 --> 4824.48] Jeremiah 1. -[4824.84 --> 4825.66] Ephesians 1 -[4825.66 --> 4825.98] says, -[4826.34 --> 4827.02] for he chose -[4827.02 --> 4827.82] us in him -[4827.82 --> 4828.32] before the -[4828.32 --> 4828.96] creation of -[4828.96 --> 4829.34] the world -[4829.34 --> 4830.02] to be holy -[4830.02 --> 4830.68] and blameless -[4830.68 --> 4831.34] in his sight. -[4831.74 --> 4832.54] Jeremiah 1 -[4832.54 --> 4832.88] says, -[4832.88 --> 4833.42] before I -[4833.42 --> 4833.90] formed you -[4833.90 --> 4834.42] in the womb, -[4834.54 --> 4835.18] I knew you. -[4835.58 --> 4836.02] Before you -[4836.02 --> 4836.58] were born, -[4836.74 --> 4837.68] I set you -[4837.68 --> 4838.50] apart. -[4840.68 --> 4841.46] Last week, -[4841.74 --> 4842.28] or two weeks -[4842.28 --> 4842.50] ago, -[4842.50 --> 4843.52] we looked -[4843.52 --> 4843.76] at the -[4843.76 --> 4844.20] God hint -[4844.20 --> 4845.20] to keep -[4845.20 --> 4845.86] these things -[4845.86 --> 4846.32] in mind, -[4846.42 --> 4847.16] calling ourselves -[4847.16 --> 4847.72] to look -[4847.72 --> 4848.28] to the -[4848.28 --> 4848.78] hope-filled -[4848.78 --> 4849.58] vision and -[4849.58 --> 4850.20] promises of -[4850.20 --> 4850.88] God for -[4850.88 --> 4851.40] life when -[4851.40 --> 4852.16] things are -[4852.16 --> 4853.80] so awful -[4853.80 --> 4854.62] around us -[4854.62 --> 4854.96] that we -[4854.96 --> 4855.82] have only -[4855.82 --> 4856.42] left the -[4856.42 --> 4856.84] vision of -[4856.84 --> 4857.32] a future -[4857.32 --> 4858.06] of all -[4858.06 --> 4858.36] things -[4858.36 --> 4858.80] restored. -[4859.44 --> 4859.84] A vision -[4859.84 --> 4860.30] of God's -[4860.30 --> 4860.72] victory -[4860.72 --> 4862.12] to sustain -[4862.12 --> 4862.50] us in -[4862.50 --> 4862.90] the present. -[4863.30 --> 4863.90] This week, -[4863.98 --> 4864.66] we remember -[4864.66 --> 4865.80] meanwhile, -[4866.48 --> 4866.94] to know -[4866.94 --> 4867.62] that God -[4867.62 --> 4868.36] is at -[4868.36 --> 4869.32] work in -[4869.32 --> 4869.92] the present -[4869.92 --> 4870.54] and in -[4870.54 --> 4871.14] the past -[4871.14 --> 4872.14] for whatever -[4872.14 --> 4872.86] this moment -[4872.86 --> 4873.94] might be. -[4874.06 --> 4874.60] The meanwhile -[4874.60 --> 4875.36] of God's -[4875.36 --> 4876.14] activity in -[4876.14 --> 4876.60] the world -[4876.60 --> 4877.58] is eternal -[4877.58 --> 4878.34] current. -[4878.44 --> 4878.82] And so we -[4878.82 --> 4879.20] can look -[4879.20 --> 4880.22] forward with -[4880.22 --> 4880.78] hope and -[4880.78 --> 4881.26] we can look -[4881.26 --> 4882.16] back with -[4882.16 --> 4882.56] assurance. -[4882.70 --> 4883.04] We can look -[4883.04 --> 4883.92] forward to -[4883.92 --> 4884.48] the day when -[4884.48 --> 4885.04] God's victory -[4885.04 --> 4885.36] will be -[4885.36 --> 4885.84] complete and -[4885.84 --> 4886.26] we can look -[4886.26 --> 4887.24] back knowing -[4887.24 --> 4887.84] that through -[4887.84 --> 4888.50] it all, -[4888.86 --> 4889.76] God is -[4889.76 --> 4890.54] God, -[4890.64 --> 4891.08] that God -[4891.08 --> 4892.00] is sovereign, -[4892.14 --> 4892.70] that he is -[4892.70 --> 4893.86] guiding his -[4893.86 --> 4895.36] story to -[4895.36 --> 4895.86] the places -[4895.86 --> 4896.44] he would -[4896.44 --> 4897.16] have us -[4897.16 --> 4897.80] go. -[4897.96 --> 4898.68] Before even -[4898.68 --> 4899.64] time began, -[4899.80 --> 4900.46] my life -[4900.46 --> 4901.76] is in his -[4901.76 --> 4902.08] hands. -[4902.14 --> 4904.76] I don't -[4904.76 --> 4905.06] know about -[4905.06 --> 4905.28] you, -[4905.94 --> 4906.74] but this -[4906.74 --> 4907.28] changes the -[4907.28 --> 4907.84] way I -[4907.84 --> 4908.92] enter into -[4908.92 --> 4909.38] suffering. -[4909.48 --> 4909.90] This changes -[4909.90 --> 4910.44] the way I -[4910.44 --> 4910.76] endure -[4910.76 --> 4911.76] struggling. -[4912.12 --> 4912.76] Before even -[4912.76 --> 4913.52] time began, -[4913.66 --> 4914.56] God had -[4914.56 --> 4915.04] a plan. -[4915.94 --> 4916.52] We see this -[4916.52 --> 4917.10] again most -[4917.10 --> 4917.46] clearly. -[4917.86 --> 4918.56] 1 Peter -[4918.56 --> 4920.36] writes, -[4920.74 --> 4921.24] for you -[4921.24 --> 4921.80] know that -[4921.80 --> 4922.30] it is not -[4922.30 --> 4923.08] with perishable -[4923.08 --> 4923.66] things such -[4923.66 --> 4924.14] as silver -[4924.14 --> 4924.64] or gold -[4924.64 --> 4924.94] that you -[4924.94 --> 4925.50] were redeemed -[4925.50 --> 4925.86] from the -[4925.86 --> 4926.34] empty way -[4926.34 --> 4926.74] of life -[4926.74 --> 4927.30] handed down -[4927.30 --> 4927.60] to you -[4927.60 --> 4927.94] from your -[4927.94 --> 4928.42] ancestors, -[4928.42 --> 4930.48] but with -[4930.48 --> 4930.90] the precious -[4930.90 --> 4931.80] blood of -[4931.80 --> 4932.22] Christ, -[4932.76 --> 4933.30] a lamb -[4933.30 --> 4933.58] without -[4933.58 --> 4934.14] blemish -[4934.14 --> 4935.24] or defect. -[4935.82 --> 4937.64] He was -[4937.64 --> 4938.48] chosen before -[4938.48 --> 4939.16] the creation -[4939.16 --> 4939.90] of the world -[4939.90 --> 4940.54] but was -[4940.54 --> 4941.36] revealed in -[4941.36 --> 4941.94] these last -[4941.94 --> 4942.48] times for -[4942.48 --> 4943.02] your sake. -[4943.40 --> 4943.98] Through him -[4943.98 --> 4944.68] you believe -[4944.68 --> 4945.16] in God -[4945.16 --> 4945.78] who raised -[4945.78 --> 4946.20] him from -[4946.20 --> 4946.58] the dead -[4946.58 --> 4947.46] and glorified -[4947.46 --> 4948.22] him and -[4948.22 --> 4948.88] so your -[4948.88 --> 4949.92] faith and -[4949.92 --> 4951.36] hope are -[4951.36 --> 4951.84] in God. -[4951.84 --> 4954.96] from before -[4954.96 --> 4955.56] the beginning -[4955.56 --> 4956.34] of creation -[4956.34 --> 4956.90] God had -[4956.90 --> 4957.34] a plan -[4957.34 --> 4957.82] to deal -[4957.82 --> 4958.26] with all -[4958.26 --> 4958.92] the suffering -[4958.92 --> 4959.76] all the -[4959.76 --> 4960.10] pain -[4960.10 --> 4960.58] all the -[4960.58 --> 4960.86] sin -[4960.86 --> 4961.32] all the -[4961.32 --> 4961.78] evil -[4961.78 --> 4962.52] in the -[4962.52 --> 4962.82] world -[4962.82 --> 4963.38] internal -[4963.38 --> 4964.24] and external -[4964.24 --> 4965.52] and that -[4965.52 --> 4965.96] plan -[4965.96 --> 4966.64] has a -[4966.64 --> 4966.96] name -[4966.96 --> 4968.46] Jesus -[4968.46 --> 4969.68] Christ -[4969.68 --> 4971.22] the eternal -[4971.22 --> 4971.72] son of -[4971.72 --> 4972.00] God -[4972.00 --> 4972.42] Jesus -[4972.42 --> 4973.30] Christ -[4973.30 --> 4973.62] who -[4973.62 --> 4974.46] though he -[4974.46 --> 4975.08] knew no -[4975.08 --> 4975.44] sin -[4975.44 --> 4975.94] became -[4975.94 --> 4976.38] sin -[4976.38 --> 4977.14] for us -[4977.14 --> 4977.46] so that -[4977.46 --> 4977.90] we might -[4977.90 --> 4978.24] become -[4978.24 --> 4978.50] the -[4978.50 --> 4978.90] righteousness -[4978.90 --> 4979.70] of God -[4979.70 --> 4980.02] Jesus -[4980.02 --> 4980.46] Christ -[4980.46 --> 4981.38] who lived -[4981.38 --> 4981.84] the life -[4981.84 --> 4982.18] I should -[4982.18 --> 4982.56] have lived -[4982.56 --> 4983.08] and died -[4983.08 --> 4983.56] the death -[4983.56 --> 4984.20] that I -[4984.20 --> 4984.62] deserved -[4984.62 --> 4985.00] Jesus -[4985.00 --> 4985.38] Christ -[4985.38 --> 4985.76] who was -[4985.76 --> 4986.52] raised -[4986.52 --> 4987.46] three days -[4987.46 --> 4988.08] later -[4988.08 --> 4988.76] victorious -[4988.76 --> 4989.96] over sin -[4989.96 --> 4990.48] and death -[4990.48 --> 4991.14] in him -[4991.14 --> 4991.88] we have -[4991.88 --> 4992.66] overcome -[4992.66 --> 4993.08] Jesus -[4993.08 --> 4993.56] Christ -[4993.56 --> 4994.04] is the -[4994.04 --> 4994.56] ultimate -[4994.56 --> 4995.38] meanwhile -[4995.38 --> 4996.32] of God's -[4996.32 --> 4996.76] activity -[4996.76 --> 4997.26] in the -[4997.26 --> 4997.52] world -[4997.52 --> 4998.24] decided -[4998.24 --> 4998.88] and -[4998.88 --> 4999.50] determined -[4999.50 --> 5000.50] before -[5000.50 --> 5001.32] creation -[5001.32 --> 5002.34] itself -[5002.34 --> 5004.04] remembering -[5004.04 --> 5004.66] meanwhile -[5004.66 --> 5005.50] because -[5005.50 --> 5006.94] we remember -[5006.94 --> 5007.54] meanwhile -[5007.54 --> 5008.46] because of -[5008.46 --> 5009.12] the meanwhile -[5009.12 --> 5010.04] of Jesus -[5010.04 --> 5010.86] Christ -[5010.86 --> 5011.36] and because -[5011.36 --> 5012.50] of Jesus -[5012.50 --> 5013.06] Christ -[5013.06 --> 5014.20] all our -[5014.20 --> 5015.16] suffering -[5015.16 --> 5015.90] all this -[5015.90 --> 5016.44] present -[5016.44 --> 5017.26] darkness -[5017.26 --> 5018.58] all of -[5018.58 --> 5019.04] it -[5019.04 --> 5020.62] will be -[5020.62 --> 5021.86] overcome -[5021.86 --> 5024.10] God's -[5024.10 --> 5024.84] godness -[5024.84 --> 5025.84] means that -[5025.84 --> 5026.38] he's always -[5026.38 --> 5027.48] doing something -[5027.48 --> 5028.10] and so -[5028.10 --> 5028.88] we remember -[5028.88 --> 5030.04] meanwhile -[5030.04 --> 5031.12] and even if -[5031.12 --> 5031.44] you don't have -[5031.44 --> 5031.78] the eyes -[5031.78 --> 5032.36] to see it -[5032.36 --> 5034.32] even if you -[5034.32 --> 5034.54] don't have -[5034.54 --> 5034.88] the heart -[5034.88 --> 5035.36] to believe -[5035.36 --> 5035.60] it -[5035.60 --> 5036.98] God -[5036.98 --> 5037.88] is -[5037.88 --> 5038.94] sovereign -[5038.94 --> 5040.38] he is -[5040.38 --> 5040.72] doing -[5040.72 --> 5041.18] something -[5041.18 --> 5041.80] with your -[5041.80 --> 5042.22] present -[5042.22 --> 5043.14] circumstances -[5043.14 --> 5043.64] you don't -[5043.64 --> 5044.02] have to -[5044.02 --> 5044.28] know -[5044.28 --> 5044.66] what it -[5044.66 --> 5044.92] is -[5044.92 --> 5045.38] for it -[5045.38 --> 5045.74] to be -[5045.74 --> 5046.08] true -[5046.08 --> 5047.28] and it -[5047.28 --> 5047.74] is true -[5047.74 --> 5048.82] you don't -[5048.82 --> 5049.12] have to -[5049.12 --> 5049.38] know -[5049.38 --> 5049.78] what it -[5049.78 --> 5050.00] is -[5050.00 --> 5050.90] for you -[5050.90 --> 5051.60] to live -[5051.60 --> 5052.48] like it -[5052.48 --> 5052.98] is true -[5052.98 --> 5054.64] and you -[5054.64 --> 5054.88] can do -[5054.88 --> 5055.30] that too -[5055.30 --> 5056.70] this -[5056.70 --> 5057.44] is the -[5057.44 --> 5057.84] power -[5057.84 --> 5058.56] of -[5058.56 --> 5059.12] remembering -[5059.12 --> 5060.76] meanwhile -[5060.76 --> 5062.08] amen -[5062.08 --> 5063.36] let's -[5063.36 --> 5063.52] pray -[5063.52 --> 5063.92] together -[5063.92 --> 5070.72] lord our -[5070.72 --> 5070.92] god -[5070.92 --> 5073.18] as we -[5073.18 --> 5073.60] sit -[5073.60 --> 5075.00] here -[5075.00 --> 5075.84] in your -[5075.84 --> 5076.70] presence -[5076.70 --> 5078.76] as we -[5078.76 --> 5079.50] stand -[5079.50 --> 5080.80] together -[5080.80 --> 5081.36] in -[5081.36 --> 5082.18] worship -[5082.18 --> 5084.20] as we -[5084.20 --> 5084.72] sing -[5084.72 --> 5085.06] your -[5085.06 --> 5085.58] praises -[5085.58 --> 5086.06] we -[5086.06 --> 5086.70] do -[5086.70 --> 5087.10] so -[5087.10 --> 5087.48] from -[5087.48 --> 5087.78] so -[5087.78 --> 5088.06] many -[5088.06 --> 5088.52] different -[5088.52 --> 5089.20] places -[5089.20 --> 5089.78] in -[5089.78 --> 5090.04] so -[5090.04 --> 5090.28] many -[5090.28 --> 5090.70] different -[5090.70 --> 5091.72] circumstances -[5091.72 --> 5092.26] with so -[5092.26 --> 5092.46] many -[5092.46 --> 5092.88] different -[5092.88 --> 5093.62] weights -[5093.62 --> 5093.96] and -[5093.96 --> 5094.36] burdens -[5094.36 --> 5094.64] and -[5094.64 --> 5095.02] joys -[5095.02 --> 5095.22] and -[5095.22 --> 5095.76] celebrations -[5095.76 --> 5096.52] on our -[5096.52 --> 5096.84] hearts -[5096.84 --> 5097.28] and in -[5097.28 --> 5097.42] our -[5097.42 --> 5097.74] minds -[5097.74 --> 5100.06] and in -[5100.06 --> 5100.16] the -[5100.16 --> 5100.34] midst -[5100.34 --> 5100.58] of it -[5100.58 --> 5100.78] all -[5100.78 --> 5101.18] today -[5101.18 --> 5101.50] I -[5101.50 --> 5101.92] pray -[5101.92 --> 5102.70] that -[5102.70 --> 5102.94] we -[5102.94 --> 5103.34] would -[5103.34 --> 5104.04] remember -[5104.04 --> 5105.30] meanwhile -[5105.30 --> 5105.64] I -[5105.64 --> 5105.98] pray -[5105.98 --> 5106.26] that -[5106.26 --> 5106.60] we -[5106.60 --> 5107.38] would -[5107.38 --> 5108.58] see -[5108.58 --> 5109.28] you -[5109.28 --> 5109.66] and -[5109.66 --> 5109.92] who -[5109.92 --> 5110.18] you -[5110.18 --> 5110.56] are -[5110.56 --> 5111.16] most -[5111.16 --> 5111.82] clearly -[5111.82 --> 5115.72] and -[5115.72 --> 5115.86] lord -[5115.86 --> 5116.04] god -[5116.04 --> 5116.32] even -[5116.32 --> 5116.60] on -[5116.60 --> 5116.80] those -[5116.80 --> 5117.12] days -[5117.12 --> 5117.30] where -[5117.30 --> 5117.46] we -[5117.46 --> 5117.78] cannot -[5117.78 --> 5118.30] remember -[5118.30 --> 5119.94] even -[5119.94 --> 5120.16] when -[5120.16 --> 5120.74] the present -[5120.74 --> 5121.16] darkness -[5121.16 --> 5121.56] we are -[5121.56 --> 5121.90] facing -[5121.90 --> 5122.14] is -[5122.14 --> 5122.66] overwhelming -[5122.66 --> 5123.76] I -[5123.76 --> 5124.04] pray -[5124.04 --> 5124.28] that -[5124.28 --> 5124.42] you -[5124.42 --> 5124.62] would -[5124.62 --> 5125.26] surround -[5125.26 --> 5125.70] us -[5125.70 --> 5125.90] with -[5125.90 --> 5126.06] your -[5126.06 --> 5126.58] spirit -[5126.58 --> 5127.22] and -[5127.22 --> 5127.42] with -[5127.42 --> 5127.58] your -[5127.58 --> 5128.00] people -[5128.00 --> 5129.52] who -[5129.52 --> 5129.86] remember -[5129.86 --> 5130.22] on our -[5130.22 --> 5130.60] behalf -[5130.60 --> 5132.32] and -[5132.32 --> 5132.44] who -[5132.44 --> 5132.88] support -[5132.88 --> 5133.28] us -[5133.28 --> 5133.98] in -[5133.98 --> 5134.18] this -[5134.18 --> 5134.44] journey -[5134.44 --> 5134.70] of -[5134.70 --> 5135.06] life -[5135.06 --> 5135.96] and -[5135.96 --> 5136.34] faith -[5136.34 --> 5138.94] god -[5138.94 --> 5139.10] we -[5139.10 --> 5139.22] are -[5139.22 --> 5139.46] not -[5139.46 --> 5139.72] our -[5139.72 --> 5140.08] own -[5140.08 --> 5140.58] but -[5140.58 --> 5140.64] we -[5140.64 --> 5140.74] have -[5140.74 --> 5140.88] been -[5140.88 --> 5141.18] bought -[5141.18 --> 5141.86] with -[5141.86 --> 5141.98] a -[5141.98 --> 5142.38] price -[5142.38 --> 5147.60] so -[5147.60 --> 5147.78] may -[5147.78 --> 5147.92] we -[5147.92 --> 5148.46] remember -[5148.46 --> 5150.70] may -[5150.70 --> 5150.82] we -[5150.82 --> 5151.22] remember -[5151.22 --> 5151.66] all -[5151.66 --> 5151.90] that -[5151.90 --> 5152.10] you -[5152.10 --> 5152.36] have -[5152.36 --> 5152.66] done -[5152.66 --> 5155.16] so -[5155.16 --> 5155.36] that -[5155.36 --> 5155.58] in -[5155.58 --> 5155.94] all -[5155.94 --> 5156.18] the -[5156.18 --> 5156.72] things -[5156.72 --> 5157.06] of -[5157.06 --> 5157.54] life -[5157.54 --> 5158.36] we -[5158.36 --> 5158.78] might -[5158.78 --> 5160.96] rest -[5160.96 --> 5162.24] in -[5162.24 --> 5162.52] you -[5162.52 --> 5164.58] in -[5164.58 --> 5164.90] jesus -[5164.90 --> 5165.30] name -[5165.30 --> 5165.52] we -[5165.52 --> 5165.84] pray -[5165.84 --> 5166.90] and -[5166.90 --> 5167.00] all -[5167.00 --> 5167.26] god's -[5167.26 --> 5167.44] people -[5167.44 --> 5167.74] said -[5167.74 --> 5169.04] amen -[5169.04 --> 5175.22] let's -[5175.22 --> 5175.48] stand -[5175.48 --> 5175.94] together -[5175.94 --> 5176.54] and -[5176.54 --> 5177.82] respond -[5177.82 --> 5179.32] our -[5179.32 --> 5179.70] own -[5179.70 --> 5180.22] mean -[5180.22 --> 5180.84] wiles -[5180.84 --> 5183.14] whatever -[5183.14 --> 5183.50] our -[5183.50 --> 5183.88] lot -[5183.88 --> 5184.40] thou -[5184.40 --> 5184.78] has -[5184.78 --> 5185.38] taught -[5185.38 --> 5185.84] us -[5185.84 --> 5186.06] to -[5186.06 --> 5186.40] say -[5186.40 --> 5186.60] it -[5186.60 --> 5186.78] is -[5186.78 --> 5187.20] well -[5187.20 --> 5187.98] it -[5187.98 --> 5188.18] is -[5188.18 --> 5188.52] well -[5188.52 --> 5188.86] and -[5188.86 --> 5189.04] so -[5189.04 --> 5189.18] may -[5189.18 --> 5189.32] we -[5189.32 --> 5189.72] remember -[5189.72 --> 5190.12] this -[5190.12 --> 5190.36] in -[5190.36 --> 5190.48] the -[5190.48 --> 5190.76] midst -[5190.76 --> 5191.00] of -[5191.00 --> 5191.38] everything -[5191.38 --> 5191.70] that -[5191.70 --> 5191.88] even -[5191.88 --> 5192.06] when -[5192.06 --> 5192.24] we -[5192.24 --> 5193.04] don't -[5193.04 --> 5193.42] see -[5193.42 --> 5193.66] it -[5193.66 --> 5194.08] or -[5194.08 --> 5194.44] feel -[5194.44 --> 5194.60] it -[5194.60 --> 5194.90] god -[5194.90 --> 5195.10] is -[5195.10 --> 5195.30] in -[5195.30 --> 5195.50] it -[5195.50 --> 5210.52] can -[5210.52 --> 5210.74] be -[5210.74 --> 5211.00] big -[5211.00 --> 5211.14] gosh -[5211.14 --> 5211.28] can -[5211.28 --> 5211.64] that -[5211.64 --> 5211.74] have -[5211.74 --> 5212.16] yea -[5212.16 --> 5212.50] we -[5212.54 --> 5213.48] to -[5213.48 --> 5214.48] go -[5214.48 --> 5215.56] and -[5215.56 --> 5215.96] can -[5215.96 --> 5216.16] when -[5216.16 --> 5217.66] go -[5217.66 --> 5218.64] and -[5218.64 --> 5219.46] can -[5219.46 --> 5219.58] come -[5219.58 --> 5220.56] and -[5220.56 --> 5221.52] can -[5221.52 --> 5221.84] c -[5221.84 --> 5222.16] hear -[5222.16 --> 5222.46] yeah -[5222.46 --> 5223.24] and -[5223.24 --> 5248.56] When peace like a river attendeth my way -[5248.56 --> 5256.56] When sorrows like sea billows rise -[5257.32 --> 5266.56] Forever my Lord, Thou hast taught me to say -[5267.30 --> 5276.44] It is well, it is well with my soul -[5278.56 --> 5287.32] It is well with my soul -[5287.32 --> 5299.08] It is well, it is well with my soul -[5299.08 --> 5311.94] How Satan should battle, how trials should come -[5311.94 --> 5320.70] That is blessed the show of bread's control -[5320.70 --> 5330.94] I stand rehired in my helpless estate -[5330.94 --> 5339.70] And will share His own blood for my soul -[5339.70 --> 5350.46] In His well, it is well with my soul -[5350.46 --> 5362.22] In my soul, it is well with my soul -[5362.22 --> 5376.36] My sin, O the bliss of His glorious thought -[5376.36 --> 5385.12] My sin, not in part, but the whole -[5385.12 --> 5390.46] His gale to the cross -[5390.46 --> 5396.12] And I bear Him no more -[5396.12 --> 5401.88] Praise the Lord, praise the Lord -[5401.88 --> 5406.88] Praise the Lord, O my soul -[5406.88 --> 5415.64] It is well, it is well with my soul -[5415.64 --> 5419.64] In my soul -[5419.64 --> 5429.64] It is well, it is well with my soul -[5429.64 --> 5438.40] O Lord, praise the Lord -[5438.40 --> 5443.40] When my faith shall be spied -[5443.40 --> 5448.40] The clouds we roll down -[5448.40 --> 5452.40] As us flow -[5452.40 --> 5457.16] The clouds shall resound -[5457.16 --> 5459.16] And the clouds shall resound -[5459.16 --> 5463.16] And the clouds shall descend -[5463.16 --> 5466.16] Even so -[5466.16 --> 5473.16] It is well with my soul -[5473.16 --> 5477.16] In His love is well -[5477.16 --> 5481.92] It is well -[5481.92 --> 5485.92] With my soul -[5485.92 --> 5487.92] In His love -[5487.92 --> 5490.92] It is well -[5490.92 --> 5493.92] It is well -[5493.92 --> 5497.92] With my soul -[5497.92 --> 5513.00] As you go into whatever it is -[5513.00 --> 5514.46] That you go today -[5514.46 --> 5518.26] Know that God Himself goes with you -[5518.26 --> 5521.48] And that He has prepared you -[5521.48 --> 5523.78] For this moment -[5523.78 --> 5526.40] And so go with the blessing -[5526.40 --> 5528.94] Of our God -[5528.94 --> 5533.12] God, go before you -[5533.12 --> 5534.10] To lead you -[5534.10 --> 5535.88] God, go behind you -[5535.88 --> 5536.76] To protect you -[5536.76 --> 5538.26] God, go beneath you -[5538.26 --> 5539.16] To support you -[5539.16 --> 5541.08] God, go beside you -[5541.08 --> 5542.22] To befriend you -[5542.22 --> 5544.54] Do not be afraid -[5544.54 --> 5546.60] Let the blessing of God -[5546.60 --> 5547.54] Come upon you today -[5547.54 --> 5549.44] Do not be afraid -[5549.44 --> 5552.64] But go in peace -[5552.64 --> 5555.76] To love and serve the Lord -[5555.76 --> 5557.20] Amen -[5557.20 --> 5563.94] Behold He comes -[5563.94 --> 5566.50] Riding on the clouds -[5566.50 --> 5568.98] Shining like the sun -[5568.98 --> 5571.68] Out of the troubling call -[5571.68 --> 5573.98] With your voice -[5573.98 --> 5576.44] Is the year of Jubilee -[5576.44 --> 5578.06] And now does I -[5578.06 --> 5582.20] Until salvation come -[5582.20 --> 5587.20] And these are the days -[5587.20 --> 5589.32] Of the night of -[5589.32 --> 5593.56] Declaring the word of the Lord -[5593.56 --> 5596.70] And these are the days -[5596.70 --> 5597.98] Of your servant -[5597.98 --> 5599.20] Frozen -[5599.20 --> 5602.64] Righteousness being restored -[5602.64 --> 5606.12] And though these are days -[5606.12 --> 5607.90] Of great trials -[5607.90 --> 5610.96] From heaven and darkness -[5610.96 --> 5613.26] And sores -[5613.26 --> 5615.60] So we are a voice -[5615.60 --> 5616.88] In the desert -[5616.88 --> 5618.26] Crying -[5618.26 --> 5620.26] Prepare ye the way -[5620.26 --> 5621.58] Of the Lord -[5621.58 --> 5624.00] Behold He comes -[5624.00 --> 5626.40] Riding on clouds -[5626.40 --> 5628.82] Shining like the sun -[5628.82 --> 5630.44] And through the hall -[5630.44 --> 5631.02] And through the hall -[5631.02 --> 5633.44] Lift your voice -[5633.44 --> 5635.76] Hear unto thee -[5635.76 --> 5637.38] Proud and sign -[5637.38 --> 5641.28] Till salvation comes -[5641.28 --> 5646.36] In these are the days -[5646.36 --> 5648.48] Of his being young -[5648.48 --> 5651.16] The tribe won't be coming -[5651.16 --> 5652.82] As well -[5652.82 --> 5655.66] And these are the days -[5655.66 --> 5656.94] Of his servant -[5656.94 --> 5659.22] And gave every building -[5659.22 --> 5662.06] A temple of grace -[5662.06 --> 5665.02] And these are the days -[5665.02 --> 5667.18] Of the harvest -[5667.18 --> 5668.96] The fields are -[5668.96 --> 5671.82] As fighting the fire -[5671.82 --> 5675.06] And we are the laborers -[5675.06 --> 5676.82] We are the leaders -[5676.82 --> 5679.18] Beclaiming the word -[5679.18 --> 5680.38] Of the Lord -[5680.38 --> 5682.74] The holy crown -[5682.74 --> 5685.10] Riding on clouds -[5685.10 --> 5687.34] Proud and sun -[5687.34 --> 5689.00] Proud and storm -[5689.00 --> 5689.42] And shall slippers -[5689.42 --> 5690.42] 콩 -[5690.42 --> 5690.94] Add your voice -[5690.94 --> 5692.22] Hear unto thee -[5692.22 --> 5695.44] Proud and sign -[5695.44 --> 5698.86] Till salvation comes -[5698.86 --> 5718.86] There's no God like Jehovah -[5718.86 --> 5720.86] Oh -[5748.86 --> 5750.86] Oh -[5778.86 --> 5780.86] Oh -[5808.86 --> 5810.86] Oh -[5810.86 --> 5812.86] Oh -[5812.86 --> 5814.86] Oh -[5824.86 --> 5826.86] Oh -[5826.86 --> 5828.86] Oh -[5838.86 --> 5840.92] you -[5868.86 --> 5870.92] you -[5898.86 --> 5900.92] you -[5928.86 --> 5930.92] you -[5958.86 --> 5960.92] you -[5988.86 --> 5990.92] you -[6018.86 --> 6020.92] you -[6048.86 --> 6050.92] you -[6078.86 --> 6080.92] you -[6108.86 --> 6110.92] you -[6138.86 --> 6140.92] you -[6168.86 --> 6170.92] you -[6198.86 --> 6200.92] you -[6228.86 --> 6230.92] you -[6258.86 --> 6260.92] you -[6288.86 --> 6290.92] you diff --git a/Sunday Worship, October 27, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, October 27, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index d20d4d55faa9b0805ebc6da090f19e99188de758..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, October 27, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,108 +0,0 @@ -• Grieving the loss of loved ones, particularly Michael and Maria -• Expressing trust in God's higher ways and promises -• Acknowledging the pain of losing loved ones, but finding hope in Jesus -• Expressing love for Michael and Maria -• Believing that they will be reunited soon -• Recognizing the limitations of human understanding compared to God's plans -• Song lyrics: "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus" and the message of turning to Jesus for comfort and salvation -• Church announcements: - • Mexico mission trip registration open - • Meeting next week after church to discuss details - • Tonight's youth gathering at 630pm - • Next Saturday's worship service at Sunridge retirement facility - • Pre-service prayer group meeting next Sunday at 9am in the library -• The opening greeting and the passing of peace in worship -• Reading of Psalm 34 as the call to worship -• Singing of hymns about Jesus as hope, comfort, light, and truth -• Repeated affirmations of belief in Jesus -• Declaration of being a child of God -• Reading through letters to the churches in Revelation during a Bible study -• Jesus' message to the church in Philadelphia about keeping His word and not denying His name -• Challenges from modern culture to acknowledge Jesus and His teachings -• The importance of standing up for Jesus and putting Him first -• Prayer for strength, forgiveness, and help in proving love for Jesus by standing for His name -• Discussion of a church service -• Song and praise section (various hymns and lyrics) -• Announcement of ways to give financially, including the benevolence fund -• Explanation of the benevolence fund and its purpose -• Call for generosity in supporting the fund -• Personal testimony about knowing one's name and being known by God -• Discussion of mistakes and consequences -• Reference to a children's worship segment on Joseph -• Joseph's story in prison and God's presence with him -• The theme of the day: God is with us and able to use us no matter where we are -• The idea that God knows each person's name and thoughts -• Prayer and thanksgiving for blessings, including health, relationships, and provisions -• Requests for healing and recovery for specific individuals in the congregation -• Prayers for various needs, including those dealing with aging bodies, caretakers, leaders in government and institutions, and forgiveness for shortcomings. -• Pastor Kevin prays for the congregation to grow in knowledge and faith, and to share the gospel -• The sermon continues on the story of Joseph, the son of Jacob -• Joseph's brothers sell him into slavery after he has prophetic dreams that they will bow down to him -• Joseph is sold to Potiphar, an official to Pharaoh, who buys him from the Ishmaelites -• In Egypt, Joseph prospers and finds favor with Potiphar, becoming his attendant and being put in charge of his household -• Potiphar's wife tries to seduce Joseph but he refuses, citing his loyalty to his master -• Joseph flees when confronted by Potiphar's wife after she catches him on an opportunity to be alone -• The Hebrew slave, possibly Joseph, is accused of attempting to sleep with his master's wife -• He is put in prison for his alleged crime -• In prison, the Lord shows kindness and favor towards him -• The warden puts Joseph in charge of all prisoners in the jail due to God's blessing on him -• A narrative review of previous weeks' discussions about hope and God's sovereignty over future events -• Joseph is falsely accused and thrown into prison -• A personal anecdote about the speaker being unfairly blamed for defending someone who was bullied -• The concept of false accusations in popular culture, referencing movies like Double Jeopardy, The Fugitive, and Shawshank Redemption -• The story of Joseph from the Bible, focusing on his faithfulness to God and Potiphar despite being falsely accused by Potiphar's wife -• The importance of understanding the "bookends" of the Joseph story, which provide context and insight into God's plan -• The importance of knowing God is always present even in hardship -• The story of Joseph's hardships, including being sold into slavery and imprisoned, but God was with him throughout -• Recognizing that just because someone experiences hardships or struggles, it doesn't mean God's presence is absent -• The idea that prosperity is not a requirement for God's presence, and that God can still be present even in difficult circumstances -• Joseph's story is an example of God's presence and favor despite circumstances of slavery, imprisonment, and suffering. -• Prosperity does not correlate with God's presence, and there are many examples in the Bible where God's people experienced lack of prosperity but were still present with God. -• The concept of loneliness is relatable and can be experienced by anyone, even those who have comfortable lives or material wealth. -• A personal experience of loneliness was shared, describing a time when the speaker felt incredibly alone after graduating from high school and moving to a new city for work. -• Loneliness and depression after moving to a new city -• Shift from social activities to solitude and increased focus on faith -• Growth in prayer life and Bible reading during difficult season -• Realization of God's presence and comfort despite loneliness -• Reflection on the importance of facing suffering with courage -• Reference to 2 Corinthians 12, verses 9-10 and Paul's statement on delighting in weakness for Christ's power -• The Greek word "eudokio" is discussed, translating to being content or choosing what is better -• Paul's message of being content in suffering and choosing it as better is explored -• Jesus' suffering on the cross is mentioned, including his endurance of physical pain and separation from God -• The resurrection of Jesus and his subsequent presence with believers through the Holy Spirit is noted -• Taking delight in suffering means seeing Jesus in the midst of hard times and persevering knowing he is present -• The church is a way for God's presence to be revealed in the world. -• God's people have initiated many positive things, such as orphanages and hospitals. -• God's presence can be seen in the midst of suffering through acts of kindness and service. -• The speaker notes that the narrative of the church being God's hands and feet is not always true, with examples from history showing times when the church has hurt people. -• The church can be a place where people experience God's presence and also hurt and suffering -• The idea that "hurt people hurt people" is true, but it doesn't justify harming others -• Everyone has the capacity to hurt and harm others due to their own brokenness and sinfulness -• Scripture calls for us to delight in our suffering, which can be a difficult concept to understand -• The church can be a place where broken people come together, lean into each other's pain, and offer love and support -• Perhaps the church is a place where we can find community and connection with others who are also struggling. -• The church has both hurt and transformed people throughout history -• The importance of community in personal growth and transformation -• How attending church and finding community helped the speaker through a difficult time in their life -• The role that Redeemer University played in bringing the speaker to Emmanuel Church -• The ways in which God used other people to direct the speaker towards Jesus and to their current place of ministry. -• The speaker reflects on Joseph and how he remained faithful to God despite suffering. -• The importance of remembering God's presence, especially during difficult times. -• Leaning into God's presence through worship, prayer, devotions, playfulness, or sacrifice. -• Finding personal "God places" where one feels connected to God. -• The speaker shares their own experiences with finding spiritual connection in different locations. -• The importance of awe and recognition of God's presence in daily life -• Struggling to feel God's presence during difficult times -• Request for faith, presence, and action in the face of suffering -• Prayer for the church to be a presence of God in the lives of others -• Recognition that God is present even in darkness and suffering -• Expressions of devotion and gratitude towards God -• Description of God's goodness and faithfulness throughout one's life -• Acknowledgement of the speaker's ability to sing about God's goodness -• Surrendering to God and giving up everything -• Recitation of a prayer or devotional phrase, emphasizing the pursuit of God's presence -• Conclusion and dismissal, with a call to continue being God's presence in the world -• Invitation to fellowship and prayer after the service -• Reading from Psalm 6, a blessing and prayer for God's presence and peace -• Hymn or song about Jesus Christ as the Lamb who was slain and now reigns at God's side -• Expression of gratitude and appreciation for God's bounty and provision \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, October 27, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, October 27, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 6a6e3ccd85e42974928efca11b0c78fdfda8a513..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, October 27, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2117 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 4.04] To leave the God I love -[4.04 --> 7.06] Here's my heart, Lord -[7.06 --> 9.72] Take and seal it -[9.72 --> 13.96] Seal it for Thy courts above -[13.96 --> 17.62] Here's my heart, Lord -[17.62 --> 20.36] Take and seal it -[20.36 --> 25.08] Seal it for Thy courts above -[30.00 --> 53.76] Water you turned into wine -[53.76 --> 58.30] Open the eyes of the blind -[58.30 --> 61.30] There's no one like you -[61.30 --> 66.26] None like you -[66.26 --> 72.00] Into the darkness you shine -[72.00 --> 76.80] Out of the ashes we rise -[76.80 --> 79.30] There's no one like you -[79.98 --> 85.38] None like you -[85.38 --> 89.22] Our God is greater -[89.22 --> 91.64] Our God is stronger -[91.64 --> 96.30] God you are higher than any other -[96.30 --> 98.76] Our God is healer -[98.76 --> 100.66] Awesome in power -[100.66 --> 101.98] Our God -[101.98 --> 104.98] Our God -[104.98 --> 117.72] Into the darkness you shine -[117.72 --> 121.98] Out of the ashes we rise -[121.98 --> 124.98] There's no one like you -[124.98 --> 126.98] There's no one like you -[126.98 --> 128.98] None like you -[128.98 --> 134.90] Our God is greater -[134.90 --> 136.98] Our God is stronger -[136.98 --> 140.98] God you are higher than any other -[140.98 --> 143.98] Our God is healer -[143.98 --> 145.94] Awesome in power -[145.94 --> 146.94] Our God -[146.94 --> 147.94] Our God -[147.94 --> 148.94] Our God -[148.94 --> 149.94] Our God -[149.94 --> 152.94] Our God is greater -[152.94 --> 153.94] Our God is stronger -[153.94 --> 154.94] Our God is stronger -[154.94 --> 158.94] God you are higher than any other -[158.94 --> 159.94] Our God is healer -[159.94 --> 160.94] Awesome in power -[160.94 --> 161.94] Our God -[161.94 --> 162.94] Our God -[162.94 --> 163.94] Our God -[163.94 --> 164.94] Our God -[164.94 --> 165.94] Our God -[165.94 --> 166.94] Our God -[166.94 --> 167.94] Our God -[167.94 --> 179.92] Our God -[179.92 --> 184.78] And if God is for us -[184.78 --> 203.78] ?!" -[203.78 --> 208.52] Than what could stand against -[208.52 --> 219.40] Than what could stand against -[219.40 --> 228.80] Our God is greater, our God is stronger -[228.80 --> 233.38] God, you are higher than any other -[233.38 --> 237.72] Our God is healer, awesome and power -[237.72 --> 241.34] Our God, our God -[241.34 --> 247.08] Our God is greater, our God is stronger -[247.08 --> 251.68] God, you are higher than any other -[251.68 --> 256.02] Our God is healer, awesome and power -[256.02 --> 260.24] Our God, our God -[260.24 --> 263.70] And if our God is for us -[263.70 --> 266.00] Then who could ever stop us -[266.00 --> 268.28] And if our God is with us -[268.28 --> 270.20] Then what could stand against -[270.20 --> 272.86] And if our God is for us -[272.86 --> 275.16] Then who could ever stop us -[275.16 --> 277.48] And if our God is with us -[277.48 --> 282.14] Then what could stand against -[282.14 --> 291.20] What could stand against -[291.20 --> 295.38] What could stand against -[295.38 --> 297.22] Then who could ever stop us -[297.22 --> 300.58] Come on, hallucinate for us -[301.34 --> 305.34] So far -[305.34 --> 335.32] Oh, my God. -[335.34 --> 365.32] Oh, my God. -[365.34 --> 367.34] Oh, my God. -[367.34 --> 369.34] Oh, my God. -[369.34 --> 371.34] Oh, my God. -[371.34 --> 373.34] Oh, my God. -[373.34 --> 375.34] Oh, my God. -[375.34 --> 377.34] Oh, my God. -[377.34 --> 379.34] Oh, my God. -[379.34 --> 381.34] Oh, my God. -[381.34 --> 392.08] Michael and Maria, someone said they thought they saw you -[392.08 --> 395.96] Giving names to babies this world never knew -[395.96 --> 401.14] I'm sure by now you've found your great-grandparents -[401.14 --> 403.54] And some friends like Dave and Aaron -[403.54 --> 406.66] I bet you've met Moses too -[406.66 --> 412.70] We never knew how much our hearts could hurt until we lost you -[412.70 --> 415.26] I know we didn't really lose you -[415.26 --> 417.72] That's just how it feels down here -[417.72 --> 422.88] And right now it seems we'll never understand God's higher ways -[422.88 --> 427.22] But we are trusting Him until the day we do -[427.22 --> 432.30] And He will carry us just like He carries you -[432.30 --> 437.44] So Michael and Maria, we'll see you soon -[437.44 --> 444.02] Oh, this is a long, hard journey -[444.02 --> 448.86] We travel in the blink of an eye -[448.86 --> 454.16] Oh, without this hope we have in Jesus -[454.16 --> 458.16] There's no way on earth we could survive -[458.16 --> 461.16] We never would survive -[461.16 --> 475.50] No, we didn't really know how much we loved you until we lost you -[475.50 --> 487.56] No, we didn't really know how much we loved you until we lost you -[487.56 --> 490.26] I know we didn't really lose you -[490.26 --> 492.48] It's just how it looks from here -[492.48 --> 497.72] And right now it seems we'll never understand God's higher ways -[497.72 --> 501.86] We are trusting Him until the day we do -[501.86 --> 507.72] And He will carry us just like He carries you -[507.72 --> 512.72] And if we believe His promises are true -[512.72 --> 519.72] And Michael and Maria, I know we'll see you soon -[519.72 --> 549.70] I know we'll see you soon -[549.72 --> 579.70] But we'll see you soon -[579.72 --> 601.72] Turn your eyes upon Jesus -[601.72 --> 603.72] Turn your eyes upon Jesus -[603.72 --> 615.72] Look full in His wonderful face -[615.72 --> 629.72] And the things of earth will grow strange -[629.72 --> 641.72] The light of His glory and grace -[641.72 --> 647.72] O soul, are you weary and troubled? -[647.72 --> 653.72] No light in the darkness you see -[653.72 --> 659.72] There's light for a look at the Savior -[659.72 --> 665.72] And life more abundant and free -[665.72 --> 671.72] To death and to life everlasting -[671.72 --> 677.72] He passed and we follow Him there -[677.72 --> 683.72] O us and no more have dominion -[683.72 --> 689.72] For more than conquerors we are -[689.72 --> 701.72] O turn your eyes upon Jesus -[701.72 --> 711.72] Look full in His wonderful face -[711.72 --> 723.72] And the things of earth will grow strange -[723.72 --> 727.72] In the light of His glory and grace -[727.72 --> 739.72] In the light of His glory and grace -[739.72 --> 743.72] His words shall not fail you -[743.72 --> 745.72] He promised -[745.72 --> 751.72] Believe Him and all will be well -[751.72 --> 757.72] Then go to a world that is dying -[757.72 --> 763.72] His perfect salvation to tell -[763.72 --> 775.72] O turn your eyes upon Jesus -[775.72 --> 785.72] Look full in His wonderful face -[793.72 --> 815.72] Good morning everyone -[815.72 --> 819.72] Welcome to church -[819.72 --> 823.72] Special welcome if you are a guest among us this morning -[823.72 --> 825.72] My name is Chris -[825.72 --> 827.72] I'm one of the pastors here at Emmanuel -[827.72 --> 831.72] And it's all of our unique opportunity -[831.72 --> 833.72] To gather together in this place -[833.72 --> 835.72] In this time -[835.72 --> 837.72] With all the things that have been happening in our lives -[837.72 --> 841.72] To take a moment and to come into the presence of God together -[841.72 --> 843.72] That's really what worship is -[843.72 --> 845.72] Gathering with God's people -[845.72 --> 847.72] In God's presence -[847.72 --> 850.72] And so this morning as we enter into that presence -[850.72 --> 852.72] We invite you to open up your heart -[852.72 --> 853.72] To the leading of the spirit -[853.72 --> 855.72] To open up your ears to the voice of God -[855.72 --> 859.72] And to bask in His glory together -[859.72 --> 863.72] Before we begin our worship with song and prayer -[863.72 --> 865.72] We have got a couple announcements we'd like to make -[865.72 --> 868.72] And the first of which is just a few notes -[868.72 --> 872.72] About the on-goings of life here at Emmanuel -[872.72 --> 874.72] And so you've been hearing announcements -[874.72 --> 878.72] About our Mexico mission trip and team -[878.72 --> 880.72] And registration for that is open -[880.72 --> 882.72] It's available online -[882.72 --> 885.72] If you get the e-bulletins that is in there -[885.72 --> 888.72] If you are curious about the Mexico mission trip -[888.72 --> 890.72] And don't receive the e-bulletin -[890.72 --> 893.72] You can grab either myself or Pastor Kevin or Brandon -[893.72 --> 895.72] If he's here somewhere this morning -[895.72 --> 896.72] I don't see him right now -[896.72 --> 900.72] We'll happily connect you to the details on that -[900.72 --> 902.72] For those of you who are interested -[902.72 --> 905.72] In the Mexico mission trip -[905.72 --> 907.72] And the registration for all of that -[907.72 --> 910.72] There's going to be a meeting next week after church -[910.72 --> 913.72] To bang out some of those details -[913.72 --> 915.72] And make you aware of the kinds of things -[915.72 --> 917.72] That are happening with that -[917.72 --> 919.72] And so just mark your calendars for that -[919.72 --> 924.72] Tonight the youth will gather for 2020 -[924.72 --> 926.72] That's 630 that's here at church -[926.72 --> 928.72] And then next Saturday -[928.72 --> 931.72] We have an opportunity to gather -[931.72 --> 935.72] With different worshipers from our congregation -[935.72 --> 937.72] With the community at Sunridge -[937.72 --> 939.72] Which is a retirement living facility -[939.72 --> 940.72] Up the hill from us -[940.72 --> 942.72] We send a small team in there -[942.72 --> 944.72] We worship with them for a little bit -[944.72 --> 945.72] From two to three or so -[945.72 --> 947.72] And they kind of just hang out -[947.72 --> 948.72] You're invited to join them -[948.72 --> 950.72] As they lead that there -[950.72 --> 952.72] And then lastly -[952.72 --> 953.72] Next Sunday -[953.72 --> 956.72] Is the first Sunday of the month -[956.72 --> 958.72] And so the pre-service prayer group -[958.72 --> 960.72] Will also be meeting before worship -[960.72 --> 962.72] And so that will start at 9 o'clock -[962.72 --> 963.72] In the library -[963.72 --> 964.72] For those of you who are interested -[964.72 --> 965.72] In meeting for prayer -[965.72 --> 967.72] The pre-service prayer -[967.72 --> 968.72] Before worship together -[968.72 --> 971.72] Those are all the announcements on my list -[971.72 --> 972.72] I'm going to look at my wife -[972.72 --> 974.72] Who usually gives me an extra one -[974.72 --> 975.72] And Pastor Kevin -[975.72 --> 976.72] Who usually gives me one -[976.72 --> 977.72] Nope, we're good? -[977.72 --> 978.72] Then I'm going to invite you -[978.72 --> 979.72] As you are able -[979.72 --> 980.72] As you are able -[980.72 --> 981.72] And where you are to stand -[981.72 --> 982.72] We can be gathered up together -[982.72 --> 984.72] In the presence of God -[990.72 --> 991.72] As we gather together -[991.72 --> 993.72] We are indeed in the presence of God -[993.72 --> 994.72] And so we mark that first -[994.72 --> 996.72] By receiving his greeting -[996.72 --> 998.72] Where God speaks to us -[998.72 --> 999.72] Inviting him -[999.72 --> 1001.72] Inviting us into his presence -[1001.72 --> 1002.72] And then we turn -[1002.72 --> 1004.72] And we extend that greeting -[1004.72 --> 1005.72] To one another -[1005.72 --> 1006.72] And so I invite you -[1006.72 --> 1007.72] To turn to those around you -[1007.72 --> 1009.72] After I give the greeting -[1009.72 --> 1011.72] And pass the peace of Christ -[1011.72 --> 1012.72] Saying the peace of Christ -[1012.72 --> 1013.72] Be with you -[1013.72 --> 1014.72] Or the Lord be with you -[1014.72 --> 1016.72] This is more than just good morning -[1016.72 --> 1018.72] This is an act of worship together -[1018.72 --> 1020.72] And so we mark God's presence here -[1020.72 --> 1021.72] In our midst -[1021.72 --> 1022.72] Receive the greeting then -[1022.72 --> 1023.72] Of our good God -[1023.72 --> 1028.72] Grace, mercy, and peace to you -[1028.72 --> 1029.72] From God our Father -[1029.72 --> 1031.72] From the Lord Jesus Christ -[1031.72 --> 1033.72] His Son and our Savior -[1033.72 --> 1035.72] Through the presence and power -[1035.72 --> 1036.72] Of the Holy Spirit -[1036.72 --> 1037.72] Amen -[1037.72 --> 1038.72] Amen -[1038.72 --> 1039.72] Amen -[1068.72 --> 1073.72] Our call to worship this morning -[1073.72 --> 1076.72] Is found in Psalm 34 -[1076.72 --> 1081.72] I will extol the Lord at all times -[1081.72 --> 1084.72] His praise will always be on my lips -[1084.72 --> 1087.72] I will glory in the Lord -[1087.72 --> 1089.72] Let the afflicted hear and rejoice -[1089.72 --> 1092.72] Glorify the Lord within me -[1092.72 --> 1095.72] Let us exalt his name together -[1095.72 --> 1097.72] Let us sing together -[1097.72 --> 1099.72] Let us sing together -[1099.72 --> 1100.72] Let us sing together -[1100.72 --> 1118.52] Jesus, hope of the nations -[1118.52 --> 1124.20] Jesus, comfort for all who mourn -[1124.20 --> 1131.06] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth -[1131.06 --> 1134.58] Jesus, light in the darkness -[1134.58 --> 1139.02] Jesus, truth in each circumstance -[1139.02 --> 1146.36] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth -[1146.36 --> 1150.50] In history you lived and died -[1150.50 --> 1155.76] You rose to chains, you rose to life -[1155.76 --> 1159.74] You are the hope living in us -[1159.74 --> 1163.80] You are the rock in whom we trust -[1163.80 --> 1170.50] You are the light shining for all the world to see -[1170.50 --> 1175.84] You rose from the dead, conquering fear -[1175.84 --> 1179.88] Our Prince of Peace, drive us here -[1179.88 --> 1186.22] Jesus, our hope living for all who will receive -[1186.22 --> 1189.84] Lord, we believe -[1189.84 --> 1201.08] Jesus, hope of the nations -[1201.08 --> 1206.94] Jesus, comfort for all who mourn -[1206.94 --> 1213.66] You are the source of heaven's hope on earth -[1213.66 --> 1217.50] Jesus, light in the darkness -[1217.50 --> 1222.08] Jesus, truth in each circumstance -[1222.08 --> 1229.36] You are the source of heaven's light on earth -[1229.36 --> 1233.76] In history you lived and died -[1233.76 --> 1239.04] You broke the chains, you rose to life -[1239.04 --> 1243.08] You are the hope living in us -[1243.08 --> 1247.18] You are the rock in whom we trust -[1247.18 --> 1254.04] You are the light shining for all the world to see -[1254.04 --> 1259.42] You rose from the dead, conquering fear -[1259.42 --> 1263.52] Our Prince of Peace, drive us near -[1263.52 --> 1269.52] Jesus, our hope living for all who will receive -[1269.52 --> 1273.78] Lord, we believe -[1273.78 --> 1277.78] Lord, we believe -[1277.78 --> 1281.94] Lord, we believe -[1281.94 --> 1311.92] Lord, we believe -[1311.92 --> 1341.90] Lord, we believe -[1341.90 --> 1371.88] Lord, we believe -[1371.88 --> 1373.88] Jesus died for me -[1373.88 --> 1375.88] Jesus died for me -[1375.88 --> 1379.88] Yes, He died for me -[1379.88 --> 1384.88] Who the Son sets free -[1384.88 --> 1389.88] Oh, is free indeed -[1389.88 --> 1393.88] I'm a child of God -[1393.88 --> 1397.88] Yes, I am -[1397.88 --> 1399.88] I am -[1399.88 --> 1401.88] I am -[1401.88 --> 1403.88] I am -[1403.88 --> 1405.88] I am -[1405.88 --> 1407.88] I am -[1407.88 --> 1409.88] I am -[1409.88 --> 1411.88] I am -[1411.88 --> 1413.88] I am -[1413.88 --> 1415.88] I am -[1415.88 --> 1417.88] I am -[1417.88 --> 1419.88] I am -[1419.88 --> 1421.88] I am -[1421.88 --> 1423.88] I am -[1423.88 --> 1427.88] I am -[1427.88 --> 1429.88] I am -[1429.88 --> 1431.88] I am -[1431.88 --> 1433.88] I am -[1433.88 --> 1435.88] I am -[1435.88 --> 1437.88] I am -[1437.88 --> 1441.88] I am -[1441.88 --> 1443.88] I am -[1443.88 --> 1445.88] I am -[1445.88 --> 1447.88] I am -[1447.88 --> 1449.88] I am -[1449.88 --> 1450.88] I am -[1450.88 --> 1451.88] I am -[1451.88 --> 1453.88] I am -[1453.88 --> 1454.88] I am -[1454.88 --> 1455.88] I am -[1455.88 --> 1457.88] I am -[1457.88 --> 1459.88] I am -[1459.88 --> 1463.88] I am -[1463.88 --> 1467.88] I am -[1467.88 --> 1469.88] I am -[1469.88 --> 1471.88] I am -[1471.88 --> 1475.88] I am -[1475.88 --> 1481.88] I am -[1481.88 --> 1483.88] I am -[1483.88 --> 1493.88] I am -[1493.88 --> 1501.76] In my Father's house, there's a place for me. -[1502.46 --> 1506.56] I'm a child of God. -[1507.02 --> 1510.76] Yes, I am. -[1512.10 --> 1513.52] I invite you to take a seat. -[1513.52 --> 1515.52] Amen. -[1522.76 --> 1527.18] We've been reading through the letters to the churches in Revelation -[1527.18 --> 1530.30] through a Bible study called Bible Study Fellowship. -[1530.94 --> 1536.50] And I was struck with what Jesus was saying to the church in Philadelphia, -[1536.66 --> 1537.94] and so I thought I'd read that part. -[1538.54 --> 1539.98] To the church in Philadelphia, -[1539.98 --> 1544.02] to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write, -[1544.88 --> 1547.34] These are the words of him who is holy and true, -[1547.76 --> 1549.40] who holds the keys of David. -[1550.06 --> 1551.80] What he opens, no one can shut. -[1552.58 --> 1554.70] What he shuts, no one can open. -[1555.14 --> 1556.02] I know your deeds. -[1556.78 --> 1560.08] See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. -[1560.62 --> 1562.62] I know that you have little strength. -[1563.32 --> 1566.12] You have kept my word and have not denied my name. -[1566.12 --> 1570.10] And those last two lines are what I was focusing on. -[1571.18 --> 1574.28] You have kept my word and never denied my name. -[1575.42 --> 1579.96] There are so many ways the culture that we live in are asking us, -[1580.60 --> 1586.46] maybe even demanding us not to acknowledge who Jesus is. -[1587.24 --> 1590.18] They're attempting us to look elsewhere for life's answers, -[1591.06 --> 1593.74] telling us there's so many different ways to the Father, -[1593.74 --> 1596.44] challenging us to fit into our culture. -[1597.34 --> 1598.48] They're saying things like, -[1598.54 --> 1599.08] You deserve it. -[1599.20 --> 1601.08] You deserve the good things in life. -[1602.00 --> 1603.28] I find, for me anyway, -[1603.34 --> 1606.16] these things really are easy to creep into your life -[1606.16 --> 1608.36] because it's just so pervasive around us. -[1609.12 --> 1611.92] Ideas that can change even the motivation of your heart. -[1612.68 --> 1613.74] And it ends up, -[1613.74 --> 1617.38] Boy, I hate it when I get emotional. -[1618.90 --> 1624.42] But it ends up putting yourself on the throne. -[1627.56 --> 1628.96] I've also lost my place. -[1631.44 --> 1631.82] So, -[1632.08 --> 1634.26] we need to be a people -[1634.26 --> 1636.88] that put Jesus first, -[1637.58 --> 1639.72] that stand up for the name of Jesus. -[1639.72 --> 1639.84] Jesus. -[1640.54 --> 1641.48] What struck me was, -[1641.60 --> 1642.82] if you truly love someone, -[1643.08 --> 1644.72] you will never deny knowing them, -[1645.14 --> 1646.56] but you will stand with them. -[1647.34 --> 1650.46] And you'll cherish the words that they speak to you. -[1651.42 --> 1652.40] Let's bow our heads. -[1655.00 --> 1655.56] Father, -[1656.84 --> 1658.92] strengthen us by your spirit. -[1660.70 --> 1663.58] Forgive us for allowing the culture we live in -[1663.58 --> 1665.34] to influence our thinking. -[1665.34 --> 1668.60] Forgive us when we haven't stood for you, -[1669.22 --> 1671.18] when we haven't cherished your words -[1671.18 --> 1673.02] or spent time talking with you. -[1674.02 --> 1676.50] And even though we may have little strength, -[1676.74 --> 1680.10] will you help us keep your words deep within our hearts? -[1681.14 --> 1682.04] Holy Spirit, -[1682.16 --> 1683.86] help us to prove our love for Jesus -[1683.86 --> 1685.66] by standing for his name. -[1686.42 --> 1688.68] In Jesus' powerful name we pray. -[1689.00 --> 1689.36] Amen. -[1692.62 --> 1693.94] Would you stand with us -[1693.94 --> 1695.12] as we sing these last two? -[1695.34 --> 1714.04] Here is love vast as the ocean, -[1714.86 --> 1718.34] loving kindness as the flood. -[1719.22 --> 1723.64] When the prince of life are at sun, -[1723.64 --> 1728.96] Shed for us his precious blood -[1728.96 --> 1739.94] Here is love lost as the ocean -[1739.94 --> 1744.64] Loving kindness as a flood -[1744.64 --> 1748.64] When the prince of life our ransom -[1748.64 --> 1753.62] Shed for us his precious blood -[1753.62 --> 1757.80] Who his love will remember -[1757.80 --> 1762.96] Who can cease to sing his praise -[1762.96 --> 1766.96] He can never be forgotten -[1766.96 --> 1772.76] Throughout his eternal days -[1778.76 --> 1782.76] On the mount of crucifixion -[1782.76 --> 1787.76] Fountains open deep and wide -[1788.32 --> 1792.10] Through those muggings of God's mercy -[1792.10 --> 1796.10] Float a vast and gracious tide -[1796.10 --> 1801.10] Praise and love like mighty rivers -[1801.10 --> 1806.10] Heart incessant from above -[1806.10 --> 1810.44] Heaven's peace and perfect justice -[1810.44 --> 1815.56] Gives the guilty world in love -[1815.56 --> 1819.54] Who his love will not remember -[1819.54 --> 1824.10] Who can cease to sing his praise -[1824.10 --> 1829.10] He can never be forgotten -[1829.10 --> 1833.44] Throughout his eternal days -[1833.46 --> 1842.78] Under his eternal days -[1842.78 --> 1844.86] driving home -[1844.86 --> 1846.78] He can never be forgotten -[1846.78 --> 1850.78] He can never be forgotten -[1850.78 --> 1870.62] We are a moment, you are forever -[1870.62 --> 1878.20] Lord of the ages, God before time -[1878.20 --> 1884.84] We are a vapor, you are eternal -[1884.84 --> 1894.12] Love everlasting, reigning on God -[1894.12 --> 1900.64] Holy, holy Lord God almighty -[1900.64 --> 1907.64] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[1908.20 --> 1914.64] Lion's praises, honor and glory -[1914.64 --> 1920.64] Be unto your name -[1920.64 --> 1928.20] Be unto your name -[1928.20 --> 1934.64] We are the broken, you are the healer -[1935.50 --> 1941.64] Jesus, Redeemer, mighty to save -[1941.64 --> 1948.56] You are the love song, we'll sing forever -[1948.56 --> 1956.64] Vowing before you, blessing your name -[1957.20 --> 1963.38] Holy, holy Lord God almighty -[1963.38 --> 1969.64] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[1969.64 --> 1976.90] Highest praises, honor and glory -[1976.90 --> 1982.64] Be unto your name -[1982.64 --> 1989.64] Be unto your name -[1989.64 --> 1996.90] Holy, holy Lord God almighty -[1996.90 --> 2002.64] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[2002.64 --> 2008.90] Highest praises, honor and glory -[2008.90 --> 2014.64] Be unto your name -[2014.64 --> 2021.90] Be unto your name -[2021.90 --> 2027.90] Be unto your name -[2027.90 --> 2038.34] Good morning -[2038.34 --> 2041.92] My name is Mike and I serve as a deacon here on behalf of the church family -[2041.92 --> 2045.88] And I am just highlighting a few of our ways to give today -[2045.88 --> 2049.64] So we're going to take a moment to give of our financial gifts on behalf of this family -[2049.64 --> 2053.22] So the first is to the church budget and the ministries of this church -[2053.22 --> 2058.32] And if you have a donation there you can stick it in a little envelope or indicate such on the check and such -[2058.32 --> 2061.22] The second one is to the benevolence fund -[2061.22 --> 2063.72] And we actually had a few questions this week about that -[2063.72 --> 2070.30] But the benevolence fund is kind of the pot of money that the deacons use to help people out practically -[2070.30 --> 2073.96] So the deacons of course are happy to serve on behalf of this church -[2073.96 --> 2076.96] To connect people to resources, sit with people, visit people -[2076.96 --> 2079.08] Try to organize some of that on behalf of the family -[2079.08 --> 2083.44] But this is the pot of fun that is used to help out people when they need groceries -[2083.44 --> 2085.12] Or access to counselling -[2085.12 --> 2086.94] Or to other basic needs -[2086.94 --> 2088.94] That they or their families are feeling -[2088.94 --> 2092.08] So I just want to lean into this a little bit this morning -[2092.08 --> 2095.28] Because that fund is actually running a little bit empty -[2095.28 --> 2098.84] There's been a lot of needs in the last six months or so -[2098.84 --> 2102.02] And we're coming into usually what is -[2102.02 --> 2104.68] A more trying time for a lot of families in Langley -[2104.68 --> 2107.68] So we have some need there -[2107.68 --> 2110.66] So we thank you so much for your generosity -[2110.66 --> 2113.40] I know there's a lot of people in this church who give to this fund regularly -[2113.40 --> 2117.14] And the deacons are doing their best to make the best use of it -[2117.14 --> 2118.80] So thank you for that -[2118.80 --> 2120.76] And if you ever have questions about what the deacons do -[2120.76 --> 2122.78] Please let us know -[2122.78 --> 2126.48] But again, thank you for your generosity this morning towards these two needs -[2126.48 --> 2148.96] I have a maker -[2148.96 --> 2155.96] He knows my name -[2155.96 --> 2157.96] He knows my every thought -[2157.96 --> 2159.96] He knows my name -[2159.96 --> 2165.96] He knows my every thought -[2165.96 --> 2169.96] He knows my every thought -[2169.96 --> 2184.96] He sees each fear that falls -[2184.96 --> 2188.96] And hears me when I call -[2188.96 --> 2195.96] I have a father -[2195.96 --> 2201.96] He calls me his own -[2201.96 --> 2207.96] He'll never leave me -[2207.96 --> 2213.96] No matter where I go -[2213.96 --> 2214.96] He knows my name -[2214.96 --> 2216.96] He knows my name -[2216.96 --> 2220.96] He knows my every thought -[2220.96 --> 2224.96] He knows my every thought -[2224.96 --> 2230.96] He sees each fear that falls -[2230.96 --> 2234.96] And hears me when I call -[2234.96 --> 2235.96] When I call -[2235.96 --> 2253.96] He hears me when I call -[2253.96 --> 2259.96] He hears me when I call -[2259.96 --> 2265.20] And hears me when I call -[2289.96 --> 2311.90] So this morning, we're going to start by just thinking about if we've ever made a mistake. -[2312.36 --> 2314.00] Has anybody ever made a mistake? -[2315.20 --> 2317.08] A few of you have made a mistake. -[2317.30 --> 2318.62] I have definitely made a mistake. -[2318.62 --> 2321.54] You know what? Sometimes you might, you don't have to raise your hand, -[2321.66 --> 2326.00] but you might have think of a time when you kind of did something bad and maybe you got in trouble. -[2326.68 --> 2330.26] I can think of that when I was a kid or even when I was an adult. -[2331.24 --> 2337.06] Has anyone ever done something so bad that they were put in prison? -[2339.28 --> 2341.34] No, not any of you guys. Anybody? -[2342.38 --> 2343.42] No one's been in prison? -[2344.36 --> 2346.44] No? No one's been in prison. -[2346.44 --> 2346.54] No one's been in prison. -[2347.24 --> 2353.64] Well, you'd have to do something pretty serious if that was your consequence in our world to go into prison. -[2353.80 --> 2357.18] And today in children's worship, we're going to talk about Joseph. -[2357.40 --> 2359.60] We know that. We've been talking about Joseph for a few weeks. -[2359.74 --> 2366.28] But the funny thing about Joseph is he got put into prison and he didn't actually do anything wrong. -[2366.28 --> 2368.92] That would be pretty scary. -[2369.46 --> 2373.68] So that's what our theme is today and we're going to be talking about how God is with us -[2373.68 --> 2376.22] and able to use us no matter where we are. -[2376.80 --> 2382.40] So let's stand up and we'll do our blessing and then we'll head off and learn more about that story together. -[2396.28 --> 2414.26] Good morning. -[2414.82 --> 2420.06] My name is Ken. I'm an elder here at Emanuel and I'll be leading us in our church family prayer this morning. -[2420.06 --> 2422.96] As we were singing that last song, it kind of hit me a little bit. -[2423.02 --> 2424.00] He knows my name. -[2424.42 --> 2425.22] I was just thinking about that. -[2425.34 --> 2431.28] How cool would it be if someone real popular or famous, I'm going up to them and get the moment to meet them and actually greet them. -[2431.38 --> 2433.48] And before I even say hello, they say, oh, hi, Ken. -[2433.90 --> 2436.40] Like, oh, yeah, that would be such an amazing experience. -[2436.48 --> 2441.36] And yet God, the maker of the universe, the creator of everything, knows each one of our names. -[2441.60 --> 2442.78] He knows our every thought. -[2443.00 --> 2444.76] He sees each tear that falls. -[2445.18 --> 2446.34] And he hears us when we call. -[2446.34 --> 2450.82] I thought, wow, that's a great call for us to come together and call out to him in prayer. -[2450.94 --> 2452.16] So let's do that together this morning. -[2454.14 --> 2459.66] Lord our God, it is humbling to think that we can not only approach you in prayer, -[2460.04 --> 2464.24] but that your spirit intercedes for us when we do not know what we ought to pray for. -[2465.04 --> 2466.90] Lord, you search us and you know us. -[2467.38 --> 2468.98] You know when we sit and when we rise. -[2469.46 --> 2471.12] You know our thoughts from afar. -[2471.56 --> 2474.18] You discern our going out and our lying down. -[2474.18 --> 2477.56] You are familiar with all our ways. -[2478.30 --> 2481.52] And before a word is on our tongues, Lord, you know it completely. -[2482.56 --> 2486.12] Lord, you call us out to not be anxious about anything, -[2486.40 --> 2489.06] but in every situation, by prayer and petition, -[2489.50 --> 2492.00] with thanksgiving, to present our requests to you. -[2492.70 --> 2494.96] Lord, we confess that we often forget to do this. -[2495.54 --> 2498.40] When we are wrestling with our anxious thoughts, Holy Spirit, -[2498.96 --> 2500.88] help us fall to our knees in prayer -[2500.88 --> 2503.46] and approach your throne of grace with confidence. -[2504.62 --> 2507.14] Lord, we thank you for every good and perfect gift. -[2507.66 --> 2509.84] We thank you for our church family here at Emmanuel. -[2510.64 --> 2512.10] We thank you for our families. -[2512.78 --> 2515.24] We thank you for shelter, food, clean water, -[2515.38 --> 2517.74] and all the provisions that we often take for granted. -[2518.68 --> 2521.14] We thank you for jobs, health, and friends. -[2521.70 --> 2525.10] And above all, Lord, we are grateful for the righteousness we are given in Jesus -[2525.10 --> 2526.78] through your death and resurrection. -[2526.78 --> 2530.80] Lord, when we are discouraged, when we think all is lost, -[2531.30 --> 2533.26] help us start to count our many blessings, -[2533.64 --> 2536.18] and we'll once again see you at work in so many ways. -[2537.26 --> 2541.08] Lord, you are the one who forgives all of our sins and heals our diseases. -[2541.62 --> 2543.22] And we lift up those in our congregation -[2543.22 --> 2545.72] who are dealing with health challenges of various kinds. -[2546.66 --> 2548.84] We pray a prayer of praise with Judy Verstig -[2548.84 --> 2551.36] as she had open-heart surgery to fix a leaking valve -[2551.36 --> 2552.74] and that it was successful, Lord. -[2553.14 --> 2555.42] And we pray for full recovery for Judy. -[2555.42 --> 2558.46] We also lift up Louise Condos -[2558.46 --> 2561.00] as she navigates her diagnosis of Bell's palsy. -[2561.58 --> 2564.14] Lord, we pray for quick and complete healing for Louise -[2564.14 --> 2565.96] and patience for her in this time. -[2566.98 --> 2568.04] Lord, we lift up Ashley -[2568.04 --> 2570.20] as she embarks on a lengthy chemo treatment -[2570.20 --> 2571.54] for the cancer in her body. -[2572.38 --> 2574.58] Lord, please be with her husband, herself, -[2574.78 --> 2576.92] and her four kids as they navigate this journey. -[2577.36 --> 2580.30] And we ask, Lord, that you give her strength and complete healing. -[2581.52 --> 2583.42] We also pray, Lord, for those who are grappling -[2583.42 --> 2586.20] with the challenges and changes that come with aging bodies. -[2586.96 --> 2588.86] Please be with those who are shut in -[2588.86 --> 2590.96] and cannot be with us in person on Sundays. -[2591.58 --> 2595.04] We pray that they can feel your presence in their lives -[2595.04 --> 2597.10] and a sense of community from a distance. -[2598.38 --> 2599.78] We pray for caretakers. -[2600.46 --> 2602.90] Lord, give them energy and strength to care for loved ones -[2602.90 --> 2605.98] and help them get respite from time to time as well. -[2606.94 --> 2609.72] And Lord, we lift up our leaders in all levels of government, -[2609.72 --> 2612.32] in our schools and institutions, and in your church. -[2612.82 --> 2615.94] Please help them recognize that all authority comes from you -[2615.94 --> 2619.40] and that your will sets the standard for everything we do. -[2620.28 --> 2623.36] Lord, when we slip or step out of alignment with your will, -[2623.76 --> 2625.14] we ask for your forgiveness, -[2625.54 --> 2628.26] and we praise you for working all things together -[2628.26 --> 2630.56] for your glory despite our shortcomings. -[2631.66 --> 2633.58] And Lord, as we open your word this morning -[2633.58 --> 2634.60] and hear your message, -[2634.94 --> 2636.68] we pray that you speak through Pastor Kevin -[2636.68 --> 2638.58] that all gathered together here -[2638.58 --> 2640.88] would grow in our knowledge and faith in you -[2640.88 --> 2642.54] and go out into our week, -[2642.80 --> 2644.08] renewed to share the gospel. -[2644.54 --> 2646.48] We pray all these things in Jesus' name. -[2646.96 --> 2647.16] Amen. -[2663.16 --> 2664.48] Good morning, everyone. -[2664.48 --> 2668.94] Today we're going to be continuing our sermon series -[2668.94 --> 2671.08] on Joseph, the son of Jacob. -[2671.70 --> 2673.86] If you've been with us the past few weeks, -[2674.24 --> 2676.82] perhaps you recall the story up until this point. -[2677.42 --> 2679.18] Joseph, at the beginning of this story, -[2679.30 --> 2680.76] rather untactfully, -[2681.30 --> 2684.70] describes some dreams he has to his family, -[2685.30 --> 2687.82] saying that they will eventually bow down to him. -[2688.90 --> 2691.18] Well, that straight up ticked off his brother's plenty, -[2691.38 --> 2693.98] and him already being the favorite brother of the batch, -[2693.98 --> 2695.86] they decide that they want to kill him. -[2695.98 --> 2697.94] But cooler heads prevail, -[2697.94 --> 2701.80] and they end up instead selling him into slavery. -[2702.62 --> 2704.02] The brothers then trick their dad -[2704.02 --> 2705.66] into thinking that Joseph has died, -[2705.76 --> 2708.98] and Jacob then mourns for the loss of his son -[2708.98 --> 2710.38] for many, many days. -[2710.92 --> 2714.40] Meanwhile, Joseph was sold in Egypt -[2714.40 --> 2715.76] to a man named Potiphar, -[2715.84 --> 2717.14] who was an official to Pharaoh. -[2717.68 --> 2720.48] That's where we're picking the story up today, -[2720.48 --> 2722.66] in Genesis chapter 39. -[2722.98 --> 2724.20] So as always, I invite you, -[2724.44 --> 2725.26] open up your Bibles, -[2725.38 --> 2726.82] have them open in front of you. -[2727.00 --> 2728.46] If you want to use your Bible apps, -[2728.50 --> 2729.76] that's totally cool as well, -[2730.06 --> 2731.56] but you keep those open with you, -[2731.58 --> 2733.18] as we'll be referencing back. -[2733.44 --> 2735.04] We're going to be reading the entire chapter, -[2735.46 --> 2736.36] Genesis 39, -[2736.60 --> 2737.80] so please follow along with me. -[2738.88 --> 2741.04] Genesis 39, 1 to 23, says this. -[2741.86 --> 2744.22] Now Joseph had been taken down to Egypt. -[2745.10 --> 2746.52] Potiphar, an Egyptian, -[2746.52 --> 2748.28] who was one of Pharaoh's officials, -[2748.40 --> 2749.42] the captain of the guard, -[2749.82 --> 2751.70] bought him from the Ishmaelites, -[2751.82 --> 2752.90] who had taken him there. -[2753.92 --> 2755.04] The Lord was with Joseph, -[2755.18 --> 2756.20] so that he prospered, -[2756.20 --> 2758.44] and he lived in the house of his Egyptian master. -[2758.90 --> 2761.02] When his master saw that the Lord was with him, -[2761.14 --> 2763.02] and that the Lord gave him success -[2763.02 --> 2764.16] in everything he did, -[2764.74 --> 2767.14] Joseph found favor in his eyes, -[2767.50 --> 2769.24] and became his attendant. -[2770.42 --> 2772.40] Potiphar put him in charge of his whole household, -[2772.40 --> 2776.58] and he entrusted to his care everything he owned. -[2776.88 --> 2778.94] From the time he put him in charge of his household -[2778.94 --> 2780.86] and all that he owned, -[2780.94 --> 2783.32] the Lord blessed the household of the Egyptian -[2783.32 --> 2785.32] because of Joseph. -[2786.06 --> 2788.64] The blessing of the Lord was on everything Potiphar had, -[2788.84 --> 2790.22] both in the house and in the field, -[2790.80 --> 2794.16] so Potiphar left everything he had in Joseph's care. -[2794.86 --> 2795.72] With Joseph in charge, -[2795.78 --> 2797.46] he did not concern himself with anything -[2797.46 --> 2799.26] except the food that he ate. -[2800.50 --> 2801.92] Now Joseph was well built, -[2801.92 --> 2802.46] and handsome, -[2802.62 --> 2803.62] and after a while, -[2803.98 --> 2806.50] his master's wife took notice of Joseph -[2806.50 --> 2807.58] and said, -[2807.84 --> 2808.78] Come to bed with me. -[2809.70 --> 2810.68] But he refused. -[2811.14 --> 2811.96] With me in charge, -[2812.02 --> 2812.44] he told her, -[2812.48 --> 2814.28] my master does not concern himself -[2814.28 --> 2815.28] with anything in the house. -[2815.54 --> 2816.48] Everything he owns, -[2816.56 --> 2817.82] he's entrusted to my care. -[2818.30 --> 2821.08] No one is greater in this house than I am. -[2821.30 --> 2823.22] My master has withheld nothing from me -[2823.22 --> 2824.46] except you, -[2824.76 --> 2825.90] because you are his wife. -[2826.88 --> 2830.14] How then could I do such a wicked thing -[2830.14 --> 2831.98] and sin against God? -[2833.00 --> 2835.06] And though she spoke to Joseph day after day, -[2835.14 --> 2837.20] he refused to go to bed with her, -[2837.62 --> 2839.18] or even be with her. -[2840.40 --> 2842.68] One day he went to the house to attend to his duties, -[2842.68 --> 2844.56] and none of the household servants were inside. -[2844.90 --> 2846.82] She caught him by his cloak and said, -[2847.08 --> 2848.18] Come to bed with me. -[2848.18 --> 2851.08] But he left his cloak in her hand -[2851.08 --> 2852.76] and ran out of the house. -[2853.56 --> 2855.94] When she saw that he had left his cloak in her hand -[2855.94 --> 2856.82] and ran out of the house, -[2856.98 --> 2858.70] she called to her household servants, -[2858.82 --> 2859.04] Look! -[2859.34 --> 2860.06] She said to them, -[2860.18 --> 2861.90] This Hebrew has been brought to us -[2861.90 --> 2863.12] to make sport of us. -[2863.54 --> 2865.62] He came in here to sleep with me. -[2866.02 --> 2866.74] But I screamed. -[2867.02 --> 2868.30] When he heard me scream for help, -[2868.36 --> 2869.64] he left his cloak beside me -[2869.64 --> 2870.76] and ran out of the house. -[2871.76 --> 2873.34] She kept his cloak beside her -[2873.34 --> 2874.56] until his master came home. -[2874.56 --> 2876.88] Then she told him this story, -[2877.38 --> 2878.92] That Hebrew slave you brought us -[2878.92 --> 2880.56] came to me to make sport of me. -[2880.70 --> 2882.20] But as soon as I screamed for help, -[2882.44 --> 2884.04] he left his cloak beside me -[2884.04 --> 2885.34] and ran out of the house. -[2886.56 --> 2888.22] When his master heard this story, -[2888.56 --> 2890.14] his wife was telling him, saying, -[2890.56 --> 2892.36] This is how your slave treated me? -[2892.46 --> 2894.00] He burned with anger. -[2895.08 --> 2896.22] Joseph's master took him -[2896.22 --> 2897.36] and put him in prison, -[2897.52 --> 2899.64] the place where the king's prisoners were confined. -[2900.86 --> 2902.72] But while Joseph was there in the prison, -[2902.84 --> 2903.96] the Lord was with him. -[2903.96 --> 2905.04] He showed him kindness -[2905.04 --> 2906.08] and granted him favor -[2906.08 --> 2908.02] in the eyes of the prison warden. -[2908.46 --> 2910.00] So the warden put Joseph in charge -[2910.00 --> 2911.76] of all those held in the prison, -[2911.96 --> 2913.12] and he was made responsible -[2913.12 --> 2914.50] for all that was done there. -[2914.96 --> 2916.16] The warden paid no attention -[2916.16 --> 2917.66] to anything under Joseph's care -[2917.66 --> 2919.70] because the Lord was with Joseph -[2919.70 --> 2921.00] and gave him success -[2921.00 --> 2922.30] in whatever he did. -[2923.32 --> 2924.32] The word of the Lord. -[2927.64 --> 2929.72] So we've covered the narrative to this point, -[2929.80 --> 2931.08] but let's quickly remember perhaps -[2931.08 --> 2933.30] what we've learned these past few weeks -[2933.30 --> 2934.60] from this story. -[2934.74 --> 2935.36] So at first, -[2935.76 --> 2937.54] we learned that there is always hope -[2937.54 --> 2940.32] because God has victory over the future. -[2941.22 --> 2943.26] We know that at the end of this story, -[2944.12 --> 2945.40] Joseph's dreams that he had -[2945.40 --> 2946.42] at the beginning of the story -[2946.42 --> 2947.06] do come true, -[2947.18 --> 2949.12] and we know that at the end of history, -[2949.46 --> 2951.80] God's plans for eternity will play out. -[2952.54 --> 2953.88] Through God's sovereignty, -[2954.10 --> 2956.30] meaning through his complete authority -[2956.30 --> 2958.74] over everything that he has created, -[2959.26 --> 2961.46] God already has victory over the future, -[2962.08 --> 2963.64] even over our future, -[2964.26 --> 2965.18] so we can have hope. -[2966.38 --> 2967.20] And then last week, -[2967.24 --> 2969.66] we learned that God is always at work. -[2970.70 --> 2972.58] We should remember meanwhile, -[2972.98 --> 2973.74] if you recall. -[2974.30 --> 2975.64] In the trials we face, -[2975.82 --> 2976.98] when things seem rough, -[2977.30 --> 2979.22] even if we never see or comprehend -[2979.22 --> 2980.24] what God is up to, -[2980.90 --> 2982.76] God is always at work. -[2982.76 --> 2985.90] When suffering enters our world, -[2986.60 --> 2989.26] and suffering can mean so many things. -[2989.80 --> 2991.52] There's suffering on like a macro level, -[2991.58 --> 2992.70] on a global front, -[2993.12 --> 2993.26] right, -[2993.30 --> 2994.64] like war and persecution, -[2995.00 --> 2995.80] and then there's suffering -[2995.80 --> 2996.66] that's more localized, -[2997.50 --> 3000.02] things like grief and anxiety. -[3001.28 --> 3002.80] Suffering can be hard to define -[3002.80 --> 3005.16] because we all experience it so differently -[3005.16 --> 3006.80] and in unique ways, -[3006.92 --> 3007.88] but in some ways, -[3007.92 --> 3009.22] it isn't hard to define it all -[3009.22 --> 3010.90] because we've all gone through it. -[3012.00 --> 3013.26] Perhaps some of us -[3013.26 --> 3014.32] are going through it right now. -[3016.24 --> 3017.32] But as we suffer, -[3017.72 --> 3019.34] we can be certain of our future -[3019.34 --> 3022.12] because it is victorious in Jesus Christ, -[3022.72 --> 3024.24] and we can know that God -[3024.24 --> 3025.82] is working in our circumstances, -[3025.82 --> 3028.48] even if we can't or we'll never see it. -[3029.72 --> 3031.40] That's how so far we've held up -[3031.40 --> 3033.10] God's sovereignty and our suffering. -[3033.10 --> 3036.10] And so now, today, -[3036.24 --> 3037.28] we get to this story. -[3038.40 --> 3039.30] Chapter 39. -[3040.66 --> 3041.92] It's a rough story, -[3042.60 --> 3043.20] isn't it? -[3044.00 --> 3046.30] It can even make the blood boil a little bit. -[3046.74 --> 3048.66] This Joseph just can't catch a break. -[3048.82 --> 3050.30] He's hated by his brothers, -[3050.70 --> 3052.24] he's thrown into a well, -[3052.52 --> 3053.64] he's sold to traitors, -[3053.88 --> 3055.76] he's then sold into slavery in Egypt, -[3056.00 --> 3056.80] and then today, -[3056.98 --> 3058.72] he is falsely accused of a crime -[3058.72 --> 3060.18] that he did everything in his power -[3060.18 --> 3060.92] to not commit, -[3060.92 --> 3063.18] and he gets chucked into prison anyways. -[3065.02 --> 3066.48] This guy does everything right -[3066.48 --> 3068.54] and then gets all the blame. -[3070.02 --> 3071.42] I remember in elementary school, -[3072.00 --> 3073.70] there was this bully in our school -[3073.70 --> 3074.96] who was a year younger than me, -[3075.28 --> 3076.06] and he wasn't big, -[3076.10 --> 3077.44] I was actually quite a bit bigger than him, -[3077.54 --> 3079.18] so he was pretty easy to ignore, -[3079.46 --> 3080.64] and he was younger already, -[3081.22 --> 3082.72] so I could ignore him most of the time. -[3083.74 --> 3084.60] But then one day, -[3084.68 --> 3086.44] I saw him shove this -[3086.44 --> 3089.44] pretty small, timid little kid over -[3089.44 --> 3090.66] who was even younger than him. -[3090.92 --> 3093.82] And I knew this kid was timid, -[3093.88 --> 3094.94] I knew he was soft-spoken, -[3095.60 --> 3098.02] and I was kind of a conflict avoider back then, -[3098.06 --> 3099.44] I still am today to some degree, -[3099.78 --> 3100.94] but that set me off. -[3101.90 --> 3103.10] And I went after him, -[3103.32 --> 3104.66] and I grabbed him by the shoulders, -[3104.88 --> 3105.86] and I pulled him down, -[3105.98 --> 3107.02] and I pinned him to the ground, -[3107.02 --> 3108.96] and I don't really remember much else, -[3109.48 --> 3110.96] except that a crowd gathered, -[3111.20 --> 3112.30] and then a teacher came, -[3112.38 --> 3113.38] and then the crowd dispersed, -[3113.74 --> 3115.22] and I was the only one who got in trouble. -[3115.22 --> 3119.82] I was the only one who got sent to the office that day, -[3119.90 --> 3120.64] and I was frustrated, -[3120.72 --> 3122.62] because I thought my vigilante justice -[3122.62 --> 3123.66] was well-deserved. -[3124.18 --> 3125.48] It was well-warranted, -[3125.82 --> 3128.54] but I was the only one who got in trouble for it. -[3129.62 --> 3131.86] See, the concept of being falsely accused -[3131.86 --> 3133.92] is why movies like Double Jeopardy, -[3134.04 --> 3134.80] or The Fugitive, -[3135.04 --> 3136.52] or Shawshank Redemption -[3136.52 --> 3138.26] are so popular. -[3138.26 --> 3142.12] When someone's falsely accused, -[3142.40 --> 3144.52] our sense of justice just spikes, -[3144.94 --> 3146.36] and it becomes dramatic, -[3146.46 --> 3147.68] and it lights a fire in us -[3147.68 --> 3149.08] to see the good ones win. -[3150.38 --> 3152.48] And this story about Joseph does just that. -[3152.56 --> 3153.82] We read about how Joseph -[3153.82 --> 3155.54] was nothing but faithful to God, -[3155.78 --> 3157.76] was nothing but faithful to his master, -[3158.12 --> 3158.90] Potiphar even. -[3160.18 --> 3161.72] But just because Joseph -[3161.72 --> 3164.34] was well-built and handsome, -[3165.06 --> 3166.14] which, by the way, -[3166.66 --> 3167.90] is going to be the title of my autobiography, -[3168.26 --> 3169.52] when I start to write it. -[3170.32 --> 3171.40] Well-built and handsome, -[3171.52 --> 3172.56] the Kevin Lobert story. -[3173.64 --> 3174.96] It's my book, it's my title, -[3175.02 --> 3176.34] and you shouldn't be laughing so hard. -[3177.68 --> 3178.94] No, because he was a good man, -[3178.98 --> 3180.22] and he was easy on the eyes, -[3180.38 --> 3182.22] Potiphar's wife starts to hit on him. -[3183.22 --> 3184.02] But he refuses. -[3185.36 --> 3187.00] Eventually, she gets a little bit more physical, -[3187.16 --> 3188.16] and so Joseph runs away, -[3188.24 --> 3189.40] but leaves evidence behind. -[3189.48 --> 3190.20] So she gets mad, -[3190.26 --> 3191.18] she lies to her husband, -[3191.54 --> 3192.66] and Joseph's thrown in jail. -[3194.70 --> 3196.34] See, the story should irk us. -[3196.34 --> 3199.44] It should ignite a plea for justice. -[3200.84 --> 3204.22] But because this story is so anger-inducing, -[3204.52 --> 3206.30] it also causes us to miss -[3206.30 --> 3208.02] some very important information. -[3210.08 --> 3212.28] We miss the bookends to this story -[3212.28 --> 3213.74] because the middle of it -[3213.74 --> 3215.68] is so compelling. -[3216.56 --> 3218.12] It irks us so much. -[3219.10 --> 3220.04] The story starts, -[3220.38 --> 3221.06] and it ends, -[3221.26 --> 3223.02] with focal points for us today. -[3223.02 --> 3225.16] But we often just blow right over it, -[3225.20 --> 3226.24] even though it's central -[3226.24 --> 3228.08] to this entire narrative of Joseph. -[3229.52 --> 3231.52] The bookends to this story really matter, -[3232.20 --> 3234.86] and they provide our God hint this morning -[3234.86 --> 3236.02] in our suffering. -[3236.94 --> 3237.58] Find them with me. -[3237.64 --> 3238.04] Verse 2. -[3239.28 --> 3240.54] Verse 2, it says this. -[3241.52 --> 3243.24] The Lord was with Joseph. -[3244.68 --> 3246.18] And then at the end of all of this, -[3246.26 --> 3247.48] verse 21, take a look. -[3247.48 --> 3250.34] The Lord was with him. -[3252.98 --> 3254.60] Even in all of the hardships -[3254.60 --> 3255.96] that Joseph was going through, -[3256.84 --> 3257.92] God was there. -[3259.04 --> 3260.08] He was with him. -[3261.38 --> 3262.84] That's our God hint today. -[3263.00 --> 3265.10] You are not alone. -[3265.10 --> 3270.22] As Joseph was thrown into a well, -[3270.74 --> 3272.26] as he was sold into slavery, -[3272.76 --> 3274.06] even as he was sent to prison -[3274.06 --> 3275.62] for a crime he did not commit, -[3276.38 --> 3279.18] the Lord was with him always. -[3281.94 --> 3284.02] See, even in our hardships, -[3285.20 --> 3286.80] even when life seems unfair, -[3286.96 --> 3288.90] even when things are unjust to us, -[3288.90 --> 3291.04] even when we find ourselves suffering, -[3291.58 --> 3293.98] we can be certain that we are not alone. -[3295.10 --> 3298.00] Now, it's easy for me to say -[3298.00 --> 3299.00] from up here, right? -[3300.22 --> 3301.02] And that's fair. -[3301.88 --> 3302.88] Like, I would never stand -[3302.88 --> 3303.90] in front of you all today -[3303.90 --> 3305.54] and say, I understand -[3305.54 --> 3306.86] what all of you are going through. -[3307.40 --> 3308.18] Of course I can't. -[3309.90 --> 3311.26] Some of you have gone through -[3311.26 --> 3313.00] or are going through health concerns -[3313.00 --> 3314.62] that I've never had to endure. -[3316.36 --> 3318.22] Some of you have suffered loss -[3318.22 --> 3318.92] in your life -[3318.92 --> 3321.60] that I have never had to experience -[3321.60 --> 3322.74] and cannot comprehend. -[3322.74 --> 3325.88] Some of you have walked -[3325.88 --> 3328.00] barefoot through hell and back -[3328.00 --> 3329.70] and have witnessed loved ones -[3329.70 --> 3331.58] crumble and fall -[3331.58 --> 3333.80] or have broken down yourselves -[3333.80 --> 3335.56] because of the context -[3335.56 --> 3336.80] that you find yourselves in. -[3338.50 --> 3340.52] And all I can do is sit and listen -[3340.52 --> 3341.68] and be present with you -[3341.68 --> 3342.50] and pray with you, -[3342.90 --> 3344.78] but I can't understand -[3344.78 --> 3345.82] the depths of your suffering -[3345.82 --> 3346.38] or your pain. -[3346.38 --> 3349.72] So if you're sitting there thinking, -[3350.58 --> 3351.32] yeah, Kevin, sure, -[3351.46 --> 3352.34] but you don't know. -[3353.34 --> 3353.78] You're right. -[3354.48 --> 3355.62] I haven't gone through -[3355.62 --> 3356.84] the same things that you have. -[3357.34 --> 3359.20] And I would never claim to know -[3359.20 --> 3361.16] what you are going through. -[3361.16 --> 3364.36] But I can say -[3364.36 --> 3366.16] with certainty -[3366.16 --> 3367.90] because of the power -[3367.90 --> 3369.50] and authority of God's Word -[3369.50 --> 3371.36] that in those dark times -[3371.36 --> 3372.44] that you faced, -[3372.54 --> 3374.24] the times that I cannot comprehend, -[3375.44 --> 3377.86] the Lord was with you. -[3379.10 --> 3380.14] While the depths -[3380.14 --> 3381.18] and the pain -[3381.18 --> 3382.14] and the suffering -[3382.14 --> 3383.22] that you've gone through -[3383.22 --> 3383.68] was deep, -[3383.94 --> 3385.14] our living God -[3385.14 --> 3386.26] went through them with you. -[3387.24 --> 3387.98] He was there. -[3387.98 --> 3390.92] That's the big idea today. -[3391.86 --> 3393.28] You are not alone. -[3394.56 --> 3396.96] God is with you always. -[3399.52 --> 3401.00] When Joseph was a slave, -[3401.12 --> 3401.76] God was with him. -[3402.52 --> 3403.68] And he prospered. -[3404.62 --> 3406.36] When Joseph was sent to prison, -[3407.42 --> 3408.44] God was with him. -[3409.04 --> 3410.44] And he was granted favor. -[3412.92 --> 3414.18] God was with Joseph -[3414.18 --> 3415.18] even in slavery -[3415.18 --> 3416.66] and in imprisonment. -[3417.02 --> 3417.32] However, -[3417.32 --> 3417.80] there's something -[3417.80 --> 3418.86] that needs your attention here. -[3418.92 --> 3419.30] Something that needs -[3419.30 --> 3420.34] all of our attention here. -[3420.40 --> 3422.04] It's easy to look at the story -[3422.04 --> 3422.92] and read it and think, -[3423.00 --> 3424.08] oh, God was with him -[3424.08 --> 3425.56] and gave him favor. -[3426.28 --> 3427.54] Oh, God was with him -[3427.54 --> 3428.84] and gave him kindness -[3428.84 --> 3429.76] and prosperity. -[3430.34 --> 3431.84] As if God's presence -[3431.84 --> 3432.86] must include -[3432.86 --> 3434.14] some kind of prosperity -[3434.14 --> 3434.90] in your life. -[3436.10 --> 3437.16] And we can read the story -[3437.16 --> 3438.30] and we can falsely conclude -[3438.30 --> 3439.30] that if prosperity -[3439.30 --> 3440.22] is not present, -[3440.58 --> 3441.22] well, then God -[3441.22 --> 3442.32] must not be present either. -[3443.54 --> 3444.90] But that's just not true. -[3444.90 --> 3447.66] prosperity and presence -[3447.66 --> 3448.46] don't correlate. -[3449.58 --> 3449.98] Remember, -[3450.08 --> 3451.08] even in this story, -[3451.58 --> 3452.96] even in this story, -[3453.26 --> 3454.56] Joseph was still a slave. -[3455.32 --> 3456.68] He was still a prisoner. -[3457.38 --> 3458.40] He was still out -[3458.40 --> 3459.34] of his father's house. -[3459.58 --> 3460.26] He was still living -[3460.26 --> 3460.76] in a land -[3460.76 --> 3461.76] that was foreign to him. -[3463.64 --> 3465.40] And so favor and prosperity, -[3465.66 --> 3466.56] even in this context, -[3466.64 --> 3467.14] is relative. -[3467.14 --> 3470.10] But the Lord was with him. -[3471.66 --> 3472.98] Prosperity does not correlate -[3472.98 --> 3473.78] with presence. -[3473.88 --> 3475.36] The Bible has so many examples -[3475.36 --> 3476.38] of God's presence -[3476.38 --> 3477.46] with his people -[3477.46 --> 3478.90] despite a complete lack -[3478.90 --> 3479.56] of prosperity. -[3480.34 --> 3481.82] Think of people like Elijah -[3481.82 --> 3482.90] or Jeremiah -[3482.90 --> 3484.02] or Ruth. -[3484.20 --> 3484.98] There's lots more. -[3486.24 --> 3487.54] Joseph was favored by God. -[3487.62 --> 3487.80] Yes, -[3488.12 --> 3489.36] even in his suffering. -[3491.66 --> 3493.16] By his faithfulness, -[3493.24 --> 3494.20] he garnered favor -[3494.20 --> 3495.36] in both Potiphar's house -[3495.36 --> 3496.34] and in prison. -[3496.34 --> 3497.92] But earlier in the story, -[3498.44 --> 3499.80] God was present with him still, -[3500.06 --> 3500.66] even when he was -[3500.66 --> 3501.54] in the bottom of that well. -[3503.66 --> 3504.34] In his richest -[3504.34 --> 3505.28] and in his poorest, -[3505.42 --> 3506.00] his abundance -[3506.00 --> 3506.78] and his loss, -[3506.84 --> 3507.46] in his blessing -[3507.46 --> 3508.50] and his suffering, -[3508.78 --> 3509.94] God was with Joseph. -[3511.08 --> 3512.02] Even after he was -[3512.02 --> 3512.88] falsely accused, -[3513.04 --> 3514.14] when no one believed him, -[3514.28 --> 3515.02] and he was lonely -[3515.02 --> 3515.60] once again, -[3516.42 --> 3517.30] Joseph was in fact -[3517.30 --> 3517.82] not alone. -[3520.72 --> 3521.92] I've never been a slave -[3521.92 --> 3522.62] or a prisoner. -[3522.76 --> 3523.02] Apparently, -[3523.12 --> 3523.64] none of our kids -[3523.64 --> 3524.44] have ever been prisoners -[3524.44 --> 3524.84] either. -[3526.34 --> 3527.44] But I do think -[3527.44 --> 3528.56] loneliness is something -[3528.56 --> 3529.96] that we can all relate to. -[3531.78 --> 3532.48] I know I've had. -[3532.50 --> 3533.20] I've had an experience -[3533.20 --> 3533.68] in my life -[3533.68 --> 3534.38] where I was very lonely. -[3534.50 --> 3535.14] There was this season -[3535.14 --> 3536.02] in life where I felt -[3536.02 --> 3536.88] incredibly alone. -[3537.00 --> 3537.84] It was the year -[3537.84 --> 3538.62] after I graduated -[3538.62 --> 3539.34] from high school. -[3539.58 --> 3541.06] I did all my schooling -[3541.06 --> 3542.46] in Victoria, B.C. -[3542.84 --> 3543.88] and I moved from Victoria -[3543.88 --> 3544.46] to Edmonton -[3544.46 --> 3545.42] right after I graduated. -[3546.24 --> 3547.16] I needed a job -[3547.16 --> 3547.64] and I ended up -[3547.64 --> 3548.56] finding one pretty quick -[3548.56 --> 3549.82] at a local grocery store, -[3549.88 --> 3550.50] but my job -[3550.50 --> 3551.68] was to stock shelves -[3551.68 --> 3552.74] and face the groceries, -[3552.90 --> 3553.64] turn the labels out -[3553.64 --> 3554.52] so everyone could read them. -[3554.52 --> 3555.62] And I had to do that job -[3555.62 --> 3556.82] from 11 p.m. -[3556.98 --> 3558.04] until 8 a.m. -[3558.04 --> 3558.94] That was my shift. -[3559.42 --> 3560.12] And my schedule -[3560.12 --> 3560.84] was not like -[3560.84 --> 3561.68] a consistent one. -[3561.76 --> 3562.18] It wasn't like -[3562.18 --> 3562.94] I worked four days -[3562.94 --> 3563.64] and had two off -[3563.64 --> 3564.28] or five days -[3564.28 --> 3564.80] and two off. -[3565.00 --> 3565.52] It was like -[3565.52 --> 3566.58] I worked two, -[3566.68 --> 3567.22] got one off, -[3567.28 --> 3567.64] worked three, -[3567.72 --> 3568.18] got one off. -[3568.22 --> 3568.68] I could never -[3568.68 --> 3569.76] readjust my schedule -[3569.76 --> 3571.12] and so I didn't see -[3571.12 --> 3571.98] the light of day -[3571.98 --> 3572.96] because it was Edmonton -[3572.96 --> 3575.44] for like six months. -[3577.18 --> 3578.36] The job was fine, -[3579.36 --> 3580.58] but because my schedule -[3580.58 --> 3581.28] was so irregular, -[3581.44 --> 3582.36] the only people I saw -[3582.36 --> 3583.10] was the two dudes -[3583.10 --> 3584.14] that I stocked shelves with -[3584.14 --> 3584.70] and they were both -[3584.70 --> 3585.64] kind of grumpy old men -[3585.64 --> 3586.10] who just wanted -[3586.10 --> 3587.10] to punch in and punch out. -[3587.52 --> 3588.92] They were not conversationalists. -[3589.50 --> 3590.78] I could barely go to church. -[3591.36 --> 3592.92] I knew nobody in the city. -[3593.62 --> 3594.26] I couldn't even really -[3594.26 --> 3595.10] see my own family. -[3596.48 --> 3597.48] And for half a year, -[3597.54 --> 3598.60] I barely talked to anyone. -[3599.34 --> 3600.26] It was very lonely. -[3601.26 --> 3602.44] I was probably depressed. -[3603.78 --> 3604.66] It was a very, -[3604.80 --> 3605.74] very hard season for me. -[3605.74 --> 3608.16] I'd gone from a very -[3608.16 --> 3611.36] super social grade 12 grad year -[3611.36 --> 3612.92] with lots of activities -[3612.92 --> 3614.96] to nothing. -[3617.16 --> 3618.38] It was strange though -[3618.38 --> 3619.68] because during that time, -[3619.78 --> 3621.32] my faith in God -[3621.32 --> 3622.72] actually grew. -[3623.44 --> 3624.32] And some of this -[3624.32 --> 3626.34] I'm realizing in retrospect. -[3627.42 --> 3630.10] But my prayer life grew. -[3630.28 --> 3631.40] I wasn't talking to anyone, -[3631.52 --> 3632.54] so God became someone -[3632.54 --> 3633.20] that I spoke to. -[3633.58 --> 3634.86] I started opening my Bible -[3634.86 --> 3635.62] a little bit more -[3635.62 --> 3636.64] because the world around me -[3636.64 --> 3637.86] was very small, -[3638.10 --> 3639.52] so I had no reason not to. -[3641.36 --> 3642.14] I'm not sure -[3642.14 --> 3642.82] I would have said this -[3642.82 --> 3643.18] back then, -[3643.24 --> 3644.08] but I know with the gift -[3644.08 --> 3644.56] of retrospect -[3644.56 --> 3645.92] that even though -[3645.92 --> 3646.70] I was lonely, -[3646.82 --> 3647.94] I knew God was there. -[3649.20 --> 3650.66] I desired Him more. -[3650.78 --> 3651.70] I leaned into -[3651.70 --> 3652.66] His presence more. -[3652.86 --> 3654.56] And it didn't make things good. -[3654.96 --> 3656.36] Life still sucked for me then. -[3658.86 --> 3659.80] But God was there. -[3659.80 --> 3661.10] And I do remember -[3661.10 --> 3662.28] in the midst of that loneliness, -[3662.88 --> 3664.20] God's presence was tangible. -[3664.82 --> 3665.44] He was with me. -[3665.50 --> 3667.84] I was never actually alone. -[3668.04 --> 3670.68] See, God is always with us. -[3674.32 --> 3676.08] God's presence in our lives, -[3676.56 --> 3678.88] it means we can be bolstered up -[3678.88 --> 3679.88] to face the suffering -[3679.88 --> 3681.34] that we endure with courage. -[3681.54 --> 3682.32] Now, I'm not saying -[3682.32 --> 3683.40] that I faced that season -[3683.40 --> 3684.44] of loneliness with courage, -[3684.44 --> 3685.66] but I do think -[3685.66 --> 3686.80] a more mature version of me -[3686.80 --> 3687.22] eventually, -[3687.68 --> 3688.32] like right now, -[3688.40 --> 3689.50] might be able to do that. -[3691.00 --> 3692.78] Because Scripture tells us we can. -[3693.98 --> 3695.28] In fact, Paul tells us -[3695.28 --> 3696.20] that with Christ, -[3696.32 --> 3697.52] we can even delight -[3697.52 --> 3698.68] in our suffering. -[3700.42 --> 3700.84] Isn't that something? -[3700.94 --> 3702.18] Read 2 Corinthians 12, -[3702.24 --> 3703.10] verses 9 to 10 -[3703.10 --> 3703.86] with me for a moment. -[3704.20 --> 3705.34] 2 Corinthians 12, -[3705.82 --> 3707.04] 9 to 10 says this, -[3707.04 --> 3708.78] But he said to me, -[3708.86 --> 3710.64] My grace is sufficient for you, -[3710.88 --> 3712.18] for my power is made -[3712.18 --> 3713.48] perfect in weakness. -[3713.48 --> 3714.86] Therefore I, -[3714.92 --> 3716.04] and this is Paul speaking, -[3716.16 --> 3717.60] Therefore I will boast -[3717.60 --> 3718.60] all the more gladly -[3718.60 --> 3719.44] about my weaknesses -[3719.44 --> 3721.04] so that Christ's power -[3721.04 --> 3722.12] may rest on me. -[3722.94 --> 3723.58] And hear this, -[3723.90 --> 3724.76] That is why, -[3725.20 --> 3726.18] for Christ's sake, -[3726.60 --> 3728.88] I delight in weaknesses, -[3729.60 --> 3730.80] in insults, -[3731.14 --> 3732.06] in hardships, -[3732.52 --> 3733.78] in persecutions, -[3734.34 --> 3735.22] and in difficulties. -[3735.94 --> 3737.66] For when I am weak, -[3738.38 --> 3740.22] then I am strong. -[3741.62 --> 3743.40] For Christ's sake, -[3743.48 --> 3744.70] we can delight -[3744.70 --> 3745.60] in weaknesses, -[3746.22 --> 3746.82] insults, -[3747.04 --> 3747.48] hardships, -[3747.74 --> 3748.36] persecutions, -[3748.44 --> 3749.06] and difficulties. -[3751.00 --> 3752.34] Now as Josh or Chris -[3752.34 --> 3753.24] would have me point out, -[3753.32 --> 3754.54] the Greek word for delight -[3754.54 --> 3755.38] here is important. -[3756.28 --> 3757.24] The Greek word -[3757.24 --> 3758.50] is eudokio, -[3758.86 --> 3759.68] which to me sounds like -[3759.68 --> 3760.44] some sort of Pokemon, -[3760.66 --> 3761.76] but it actually means -[3761.76 --> 3763.02] to be content -[3763.02 --> 3765.56] or to choose as better. -[3765.56 --> 3767.72] So Paul is saying -[3767.72 --> 3769.12] to be content -[3769.12 --> 3770.66] in our suffering. -[3771.48 --> 3772.02] Or rather, -[3772.30 --> 3773.52] to choose the suffering -[3773.52 --> 3774.18] that we face -[3774.18 --> 3775.10] knowing that it is better -[3775.10 --> 3775.56] for us -[3775.56 --> 3777.02] because when we are weak, -[3777.36 --> 3778.84] we allow Christ's presence -[3778.84 --> 3780.04] or Christ's power -[3780.04 --> 3781.58] and Christ in general -[3781.58 --> 3782.52] to be the focal point -[3782.52 --> 3783.12] in our lives. -[3783.90 --> 3784.78] When we suffer, -[3784.88 --> 3786.08] we can lean into Christ -[3786.08 --> 3787.12] because we know -[3787.12 --> 3788.30] he suffered. -[3788.30 --> 3790.64] I think sometimes -[3790.64 --> 3791.20] we forget -[3791.20 --> 3792.42] just how much suffering -[3792.42 --> 3793.56] Jesus had to endure. -[3793.86 --> 3794.00] See, -[3794.06 --> 3795.54] he lived this perfect life, -[3795.58 --> 3796.42] a life that you and I -[3796.42 --> 3797.04] fail to live -[3797.04 --> 3797.92] each and every day -[3797.92 --> 3799.00] and then Jesus died -[3799.00 --> 3800.64] an unbelievably -[3800.64 --> 3802.58] excruciating death -[3802.58 --> 3803.54] that we deserve -[3803.54 --> 3804.32] because of our sin -[3804.32 --> 3804.94] and brokenness. -[3805.94 --> 3807.14] And he bore the weight -[3807.14 --> 3809.34] of all of human sin -[3809.34 --> 3811.02] throughout all of human history -[3811.02 --> 3811.68] on his shoulders. -[3811.80 --> 3812.52] Think about that. -[3812.52 --> 3814.96] bearing the wrath of God -[3814.96 --> 3816.28] for the weight -[3816.28 --> 3817.14] of the sin -[3817.14 --> 3818.04] of humanity -[3818.04 --> 3819.16] throughout history. -[3820.84 --> 3822.48] He was flogged, -[3823.76 --> 3824.08] beaten, -[3824.74 --> 3825.32] stripped, -[3826.10 --> 3826.74] stabbed, -[3827.00 --> 3827.34] pierced. -[3827.40 --> 3828.72] He was hung on a cross. -[3829.42 --> 3830.34] He suffocated. -[3831.54 --> 3832.78] He was forsaken. -[3835.44 --> 3838.40] Jesus knew suffering. -[3838.40 --> 3842.74] But he also knows -[3842.74 --> 3843.50] victory. -[3844.68 --> 3845.80] Because three days later -[3845.80 --> 3847.46] he rose triumphantly -[3847.46 --> 3848.06] from the grave -[3848.06 --> 3848.68] and now through -[3848.68 --> 3849.50] the Holy Spirit -[3849.50 --> 3851.78] Jesus is with us -[3851.78 --> 3853.56] in our suffering too. -[3853.98 --> 3854.92] Jesus reigns -[3854.92 --> 3855.76] on the throne -[3855.76 --> 3856.88] over all creation -[3856.88 --> 3858.64] and yet he sits with us -[3858.64 --> 3859.64] when we suffer -[3859.64 --> 3861.40] knowing what pain -[3861.40 --> 3862.22] and suffering -[3862.22 --> 3863.08] and loneliness -[3863.08 --> 3863.84] feels like -[3863.84 --> 3865.12] because he lived it too. -[3866.36 --> 3867.36] He understands -[3867.36 --> 3869.00] what we're going through -[3869.00 --> 3872.08] and he is constantly present. -[3874.24 --> 3875.20] Taking delight -[3875.20 --> 3875.84] in our suffering -[3875.84 --> 3876.78] means to choose -[3876.78 --> 3877.98] to see Jesus -[3877.98 --> 3879.06] in the midst -[3879.06 --> 3879.82] of hard times -[3879.82 --> 3881.72] because he is there. -[3882.64 --> 3883.64] It's not that we have -[3883.64 --> 3884.30] to rejoice -[3884.30 --> 3885.12] in our suffering -[3885.12 --> 3887.94] but we sure can persevere -[3887.94 --> 3889.16] knowing that we are not alone. -[3890.46 --> 3891.82] God is present -[3891.82 --> 3892.62] just like he was -[3892.62 --> 3893.18] with Joseph. -[3893.18 --> 3897.60] One of the ways -[3897.60 --> 3898.72] that God is present -[3898.72 --> 3899.70] in our lives -[3899.70 --> 3901.04] is through his people -[3901.04 --> 3901.86] through the church. -[3903.54 --> 3904.40] If the church -[3904.40 --> 3905.38] is Christ's body -[3905.38 --> 3906.78] and if we have -[3906.78 --> 3907.60] the Holy Spirit -[3907.60 --> 3908.66] in us -[3908.66 --> 3910.68] we are a means -[3910.68 --> 3911.88] or we are a picture -[3911.88 --> 3913.30] of God's presence -[3913.30 --> 3914.10] here in this world. -[3914.86 --> 3915.56] The church -[3915.56 --> 3916.46] is a way -[3916.46 --> 3918.60] that God's presence -[3918.60 --> 3919.12] is revealed -[3919.12 --> 3919.74] in this world. -[3920.34 --> 3921.56] On a macro level -[3921.56 --> 3922.26] if you look -[3922.26 --> 3922.82] throughout history -[3922.82 --> 3923.44] you can see this. -[3923.54 --> 3924.16] God's presence -[3924.16 --> 3925.36] is evident -[3925.36 --> 3926.38] everywhere -[3926.38 --> 3927.26] because of the work -[3927.26 --> 3928.26] of his people -[3928.26 --> 3929.58] or sorry -[3929.58 --> 3930.58] because of his work -[3930.58 --> 3931.46] through his people. -[3932.28 --> 3933.02] God's people -[3933.02 --> 3933.42] Christians -[3933.42 --> 3934.14] they've initiated -[3934.14 --> 3934.94] so many things. -[3935.34 --> 3935.82] Orphanages -[3935.82 --> 3936.40] hospitals -[3936.40 --> 3937.22] medical systems -[3937.22 --> 3937.78] universities -[3937.78 --> 3938.36] crisis -[3938.36 --> 3939.84] intervention agencies -[3939.84 --> 3941.82] refugee initiatives -[3941.82 --> 3942.62] homeless shelters -[3942.62 --> 3943.48] rehab centers -[3943.48 --> 3944.92] so many things -[3944.92 --> 3945.60] in this world -[3945.60 --> 3947.72] God initiated -[3947.72 --> 3948.40] through his people. -[3948.80 --> 3949.18] We see them -[3949.18 --> 3949.60] every day -[3949.60 --> 3950.44] we use them -[3950.44 --> 3951.02] every day. -[3951.02 --> 3953.82] God's presence -[3953.82 --> 3954.96] visible in the midst -[3954.96 --> 3955.48] of suffering. -[3956.98 --> 3958.38] But we can zoom in -[3958.38 --> 3959.42] and see it locally too. -[3960.06 --> 3961.46] Zoom into this place here. -[3962.14 --> 3962.76] I could tell you -[3962.76 --> 3963.64] countless stories -[3963.64 --> 3964.22] of you -[3964.22 --> 3965.24] of God's people -[3965.24 --> 3966.12] here at Emmanuel -[3966.12 --> 3968.14] being present -[3968.14 --> 3969.68] in the midst -[3969.68 --> 3970.24] of suffering. -[3971.02 --> 3971.96] Whether it's -[3971.96 --> 3972.70] prayers -[3972.70 --> 3973.92] or lament services -[3973.92 --> 3974.62] it's meals -[3974.62 --> 3975.22] for people -[3975.22 --> 3976.88] it's care groups -[3976.88 --> 3978.10] it's labor -[3978.10 --> 3978.70] and time -[3978.70 --> 3979.30] and energy -[3979.30 --> 3980.20] and service. -[3981.94 --> 3982.46] There's -[3982.46 --> 3983.62] so much -[3983.62 --> 3984.94] giving -[3984.94 --> 3986.04] of ourselves -[3986.04 --> 3987.42] being God's -[3987.42 --> 3987.76] presence -[3987.76 --> 3988.36] in the midst -[3988.36 --> 3989.20] of each other -[3989.20 --> 3990.58] who are going -[3990.58 --> 3991.06] through hardships. -[3991.30 --> 3992.24] You are his hands -[3992.24 --> 3992.64] and feet. -[3993.14 --> 3993.98] You are being used -[3993.98 --> 3995.40] by our Holy Father -[3995.40 --> 3996.58] to be his presence -[3996.58 --> 3997.70] in the face of hardships -[3997.70 --> 3998.88] here in Langley. -[3999.14 --> 4000.06] The benevolence fund -[4000.06 --> 4001.30] that you just gave to -[4001.30 --> 4002.18] is doing that. -[4002.48 --> 4002.98] The deacons -[4002.98 --> 4003.82] are doing this work. -[4003.90 --> 4004.28] The elders -[4004.28 --> 4005.08] are doing this work. -[4005.38 --> 4006.30] All of the ministries -[4006.30 --> 4007.36] here are doing this work. -[4007.36 --> 4008.26] It is happening. -[4012.60 --> 4013.76] But we also know -[4013.76 --> 4014.46] that this narrative -[4014.46 --> 4015.48] is not always true. -[4017.84 --> 4018.94] Yes, that is one -[4018.94 --> 4020.12] glorious side -[4020.12 --> 4020.60] of the coin. -[4022.02 --> 4022.82] But there are -[4022.82 --> 4023.72] so many stories -[4023.72 --> 4024.46] throughout history -[4024.46 --> 4026.90] of the church -[4026.90 --> 4027.64] not being -[4027.64 --> 4028.24] God's hands -[4028.24 --> 4028.64] and feet. -[4029.48 --> 4029.86] In fact, -[4030.20 --> 4030.92] many people -[4030.92 --> 4031.44] who have walked -[4031.44 --> 4032.50] away from the church -[4032.50 --> 4033.10] do so because -[4033.10 --> 4033.60] the church -[4033.60 --> 4034.64] has hurt them -[4034.64 --> 4035.54] so badly. -[4037.42 --> 4038.30] This is also -[4038.30 --> 4038.86] the reality -[4038.86 --> 4039.46] of history. -[4043.06 --> 4043.62] Unfortunately, -[4044.94 --> 4047.08] just like prosperity -[4047.08 --> 4048.28] is not a sign -[4048.28 --> 4049.26] of God's presence, -[4050.46 --> 4051.62] sometimes the actions -[4051.62 --> 4052.32] of Christians -[4052.32 --> 4053.60] sure make God -[4053.60 --> 4054.40] seem far away. -[4056.40 --> 4056.86] Christians are -[4056.86 --> 4057.38] as fallible -[4057.38 --> 4057.84] as anyone. -[4058.56 --> 4059.92] Sin entangles -[4059.92 --> 4060.70] us all -[4060.70 --> 4061.12] and anyone -[4061.12 --> 4061.68] is capable -[4061.68 --> 4062.18] of hurting -[4062.18 --> 4062.64] and harming -[4062.64 --> 4063.28] those around them. -[4063.28 --> 4064.48] Just as suffering -[4064.48 --> 4065.60] touches us all -[4065.60 --> 4066.56] so does the ability -[4066.56 --> 4067.84] to hurt others. -[4069.68 --> 4070.40] There's a saying -[4070.40 --> 4070.68] out there, -[4070.74 --> 4071.46] maybe some of you -[4071.46 --> 4071.86] have heard it, -[4071.90 --> 4072.52] many, many of you -[4072.52 --> 4073.00] have heard it. -[4073.72 --> 4074.46] Hurt people -[4074.46 --> 4075.82] hurt people. -[4076.36 --> 4077.14] We heard that one -[4077.14 --> 4077.46] before? -[4077.84 --> 4078.44] Hurt people -[4078.44 --> 4079.58] hurt people. -[4081.46 --> 4082.36] But if everyone -[4082.36 --> 4082.90] is hurt, -[4084.28 --> 4085.66] that means we all, -[4085.74 --> 4086.26] no matter what -[4086.26 --> 4086.74] we believe, -[4086.82 --> 4087.32] have the ability -[4087.32 --> 4088.00] to hurt people. -[4088.00 --> 4089.42] It's not a justification -[4089.42 --> 4090.38] for our actions. -[4090.52 --> 4091.62] Please don't hear that. -[4092.22 --> 4093.24] But it is a reason -[4093.24 --> 4094.36] why we see this. -[4094.42 --> 4095.06] And while the church -[4095.06 --> 4095.98] is a place -[4095.98 --> 4096.64] that should be -[4096.64 --> 4097.64] the presence of God, -[4097.78 --> 4099.00] it can also be a place -[4099.00 --> 4099.60] where suffering -[4099.60 --> 4100.32] is experienced. -[4100.88 --> 4101.58] And that makes -[4101.58 --> 4102.32] a sermon like this -[4102.32 --> 4102.80] difficult. -[4103.74 --> 4105.04] Because on the one hand, -[4105.30 --> 4106.40] I know that the church -[4106.40 --> 4107.40] is a picture of God's -[4107.40 --> 4108.22] presence here on earth. -[4109.22 --> 4110.04] We see it. -[4110.12 --> 4110.68] We've seen it -[4110.68 --> 4111.34] throughout history. -[4113.12 --> 4114.30] But on the other hand, -[4115.06 --> 4116.14] I know that the church -[4116.14 --> 4116.74] has been a place -[4116.74 --> 4117.72] that has compounded -[4117.72 --> 4118.48] and even created -[4118.48 --> 4119.18] hurt as well. -[4122.56 --> 4123.18] And yet, -[4123.30 --> 4124.74] Scripture tells us -[4124.74 --> 4125.90] to delight -[4125.90 --> 4127.12] in our suffering. -[4129.28 --> 4129.68] How? -[4132.34 --> 4133.62] Well, maybe this place, -[4134.54 --> 4135.12] maybe church, -[4135.22 --> 4136.26] maybe this place, -[4136.62 --> 4137.22] although it can -[4137.22 --> 4138.32] bring hurt, -[4138.40 --> 4139.08] maybe it's a place -[4139.08 --> 4139.78] we lean into. -[4140.74 --> 4141.70] Because people here, -[4141.78 --> 4142.50] all of us, -[4142.88 --> 4143.86] are broken too. -[4144.42 --> 4144.66] Right? -[4145.12 --> 4146.18] And in our brokenness, -[4146.18 --> 4147.34] it maybe means -[4147.34 --> 4148.26] we belong together. -[4149.70 --> 4151.08] If we are all hurt, -[4151.14 --> 4152.44] maybe we can hurt together. -[4153.30 --> 4154.16] If the church -[4154.16 --> 4154.88] is a place -[4154.88 --> 4155.60] where hurt people -[4155.60 --> 4156.08] are welcome, -[4156.52 --> 4157.82] and sinners are welcome, -[4158.10 --> 4159.16] and broken people -[4159.16 --> 4159.64] are welcome, -[4159.92 --> 4160.72] and if church -[4160.72 --> 4161.84] is a place -[4161.84 --> 4163.54] where these same people -[4163.54 --> 4164.52] can offer love -[4164.52 --> 4165.40] and support -[4165.40 --> 4166.78] and care for one another, -[4167.74 --> 4168.82] maybe it's a place -[4168.82 --> 4170.54] where you can come. -[4171.54 --> 4172.36] All of you, -[4172.42 --> 4173.00] in your pain, -[4173.16 --> 4173.74] and your suffering, -[4173.84 --> 4174.22] all of you, -[4174.22 --> 4174.84] your whole story, -[4174.90 --> 4176.30] maybe it's a place, -[4177.02 --> 4177.94] and more importantly, -[4178.04 --> 4178.96] maybe it's a people -[4178.96 --> 4181.18] that you can lean into -[4181.18 --> 4181.68] as well. -[4183.60 --> 4184.84] You can be a part of it. -[4185.74 --> 4187.02] You can be a part of us. -[4187.26 --> 4188.78] Maybe in our hurt, -[4188.92 --> 4189.76] maybe in our suffering, -[4189.88 --> 4191.92] maybe the broken vessels -[4191.92 --> 4194.44] found here at Emanuel CRC -[4194.44 --> 4196.72] or in the church global -[4196.72 --> 4199.08] are the exact kind of people -[4199.08 --> 4200.20] that will resonate with you. -[4200.20 --> 4205.06] Maybe God can use even us -[4205.06 --> 4206.24] to help you, -[4206.74 --> 4209.30] or maybe God could use -[4209.30 --> 4211.26] even you to help us. -[4213.02 --> 4213.90] Because like I said, -[4213.96 --> 4214.74] history has shown us -[4214.74 --> 4215.86] that while the church -[4215.86 --> 4216.60] has been a place -[4216.60 --> 4217.38] that has hurt people, -[4218.12 --> 4219.80] it is also a place -[4219.80 --> 4220.80] that has transformed -[4220.80 --> 4221.94] the world and culture -[4221.94 --> 4222.84] that we live in, -[4224.04 --> 4224.98] transformed people -[4224.98 --> 4226.38] in this room here today. -[4226.38 --> 4229.50] Church matters. -[4230.26 --> 4231.64] Community matters. -[4233.88 --> 4234.96] The rest of my story -[4234.96 --> 4236.66] actually shares this too. -[4236.80 --> 4237.98] That was a rough year -[4237.98 --> 4238.46] in Edmonton. -[4238.56 --> 4239.28] It was a lonely year -[4239.28 --> 4239.76] in Edmonton. -[4239.88 --> 4241.04] I didn't have community -[4241.04 --> 4241.88] for a long time, -[4242.48 --> 4243.40] but then I started -[4243.40 --> 4244.40] to go to church. -[4244.58 --> 4245.38] It was put on my heart -[4245.38 --> 4245.96] to do that no matter -[4245.96 --> 4246.80] how tired I was -[4246.80 --> 4247.86] or how bright the sun was. -[4248.94 --> 4249.72] And so I started going -[4249.72 --> 4250.42] to church a little bit -[4250.42 --> 4250.90] more frequently. -[4251.76 --> 4253.04] I started seeing my family -[4253.04 --> 4254.38] a little bit more regularly. -[4255.10 --> 4255.74] Through that family, -[4255.74 --> 4256.58] I got a new job. -[4256.66 --> 4257.32] No more night shifts. -[4257.38 --> 4258.20] I was working days. -[4258.96 --> 4259.62] I got to be part -[4259.62 --> 4260.62] of the community more. -[4260.74 --> 4261.82] I got to see God's people -[4261.82 --> 4262.68] a little more regularly. -[4262.82 --> 4264.26] My cousin visited once -[4264.26 --> 4264.96] for dinner and he brought -[4264.96 --> 4265.42] his girlfriend, -[4265.56 --> 4266.62] who I had never met before. -[4266.76 --> 4267.28] They're married now. -[4267.32 --> 4267.88] They live in Michigan. -[4269.46 --> 4271.26] And his girlfriend at the time -[4271.26 --> 4272.32] was talking to us at dinner -[4272.32 --> 4273.12] and she asked what I was -[4273.12 --> 4273.92] going to be doing next year. -[4273.94 --> 4274.60] I said, oh, I'm probably -[4274.60 --> 4275.40] going to go to King's. -[4275.46 --> 4276.90] I want to do Christian education. -[4277.20 --> 4278.06] I can live at home -[4278.06 --> 4278.72] and just commute. -[4278.82 --> 4279.24] It'll be great. -[4279.58 --> 4280.18] And she's like, oh, -[4280.20 --> 4281.18] you seem like the kind of person -[4281.18 --> 4282.18] who would desire community -[4282.18 --> 4283.28] and want to live on campus. -[4283.28 --> 4283.96] And I was like, -[4283.96 --> 4286.22] oh, I am that kind of person. -[4287.20 --> 4288.44] And so through very little -[4288.44 --> 4289.20] words of her own -[4289.20 --> 4290.22] and very little convincing, -[4290.48 --> 4291.86] I signed up and registered -[4291.86 --> 4292.52] to go to Redeemer. -[4292.68 --> 4293.92] I went there with no plan. -[4294.40 --> 4295.06] I had no idea -[4295.06 --> 4295.74] what I was going to take -[4295.74 --> 4296.86] and I know not a soul there, -[4296.94 --> 4297.50] but I went -[4297.50 --> 4299.82] to live on campus. -[4302.10 --> 4303.12] God used Redeemer -[4303.12 --> 4303.80] to bring me here, -[4303.88 --> 4304.34] to Emmanuel. -[4304.58 --> 4305.76] God, through his people, -[4305.88 --> 4306.30] are the reason -[4306.30 --> 4306.94] that I'm here today. -[4307.04 --> 4308.20] I made some amazing -[4308.20 --> 4308.72] friends there. -[4308.78 --> 4309.80] I had people pointing me -[4309.80 --> 4310.44] to Jesus there. -[4310.44 --> 4311.82] I met my wife there. -[4311.82 --> 4313.34] They directed me -[4313.34 --> 4314.20] to where I am today. -[4314.32 --> 4315.12] They directed me -[4315.12 --> 4315.64] to Jesus. -[4318.12 --> 4319.34] Through his people, -[4319.92 --> 4321.00] God brought me here. -[4321.06 --> 4321.58] It's the reason -[4321.58 --> 4322.26] I'm here today. -[4323.58 --> 4324.10] And here, -[4324.24 --> 4325.10] so many people -[4325.10 --> 4326.10] continue to point me -[4326.10 --> 4326.64] to Christ. -[4327.68 --> 4328.30] They continue -[4328.30 --> 4329.34] to walk alongside me -[4329.34 --> 4330.16] when I struggle, -[4330.96 --> 4332.16] when I go through hard times. -[4332.20 --> 4332.58] And maybe, -[4332.78 --> 4334.40] maybe that's the right place -[4334.40 --> 4335.04] to end today. -[4337.20 --> 4338.72] The Lord was with Joseph. -[4340.34 --> 4340.78] Always. -[4340.78 --> 4343.36] And he's with us too. -[4344.28 --> 4345.22] By his spirit, -[4345.30 --> 4346.70] in his word that we read, -[4347.34 --> 4348.44] and through his church. -[4350.62 --> 4351.64] So what do we take away -[4351.64 --> 4352.10] from this? -[4353.86 --> 4354.20] I think, -[4354.28 --> 4354.88] I hope -[4354.88 --> 4356.32] that we can remember, -[4356.46 --> 4357.14] even in the midst -[4357.14 --> 4358.04] of the darkest suffering -[4358.04 --> 4358.52] we go through, -[4358.56 --> 4359.34] that we are not alone. -[4360.26 --> 4361.62] That God is with us. -[4363.52 --> 4364.52] And so however, -[4365.14 --> 4366.66] whatever capacity we have, -[4367.32 --> 4369.32] let's lean into that presence. -[4369.42 --> 4370.36] Are we leaning in, -[4370.36 --> 4371.34] or are we pulling away? -[4372.62 --> 4373.86] He's with you always, -[4373.96 --> 4374.68] but are you with him? -[4375.20 --> 4375.76] That could mean -[4375.76 --> 4377.08] a whole host of things. -[4378.00 --> 4379.10] But how are you leaning -[4379.10 --> 4380.52] into God's presence today? -[4381.86 --> 4382.60] For Joseph, -[4382.96 --> 4385.00] he kept living his life -[4385.00 --> 4386.28] faithfully -[4386.28 --> 4387.50] to the God that he served. -[4388.58 --> 4389.52] He knew he couldn't -[4389.52 --> 4390.16] sin against God, -[4390.20 --> 4390.88] and so he didn't. -[4390.98 --> 4392.10] And yet he suffered for it. -[4394.86 --> 4395.30] For us, -[4395.34 --> 4395.78] that could look like -[4395.78 --> 4396.32] all sorts of things. -[4396.40 --> 4396.84] Maybe for us, -[4396.84 --> 4397.42] it's reaching out -[4397.42 --> 4398.10] to someone here -[4398.10 --> 4399.34] or elsewhere, -[4399.34 --> 4400.58] even if your impulse -[4400.58 --> 4402.08] is to withdraw -[4402.08 --> 4403.92] rather than press in. -[4404.42 --> 4405.02] Maybe for you, -[4405.12 --> 4406.02] it's to worship -[4406.02 --> 4406.82] a little bit more. -[4407.68 --> 4408.82] Even in your daily rhythms, -[4408.94 --> 4410.70] maybe that's in a musical way -[4410.70 --> 4412.08] or prayerful ways -[4412.08 --> 4413.56] or devotional ways -[4413.56 --> 4414.72] or playful ways -[4414.72 --> 4416.16] or relational ways -[4416.16 --> 4417.54] or sacrificial ways. -[4418.82 --> 4419.70] Maybe it just means -[4419.70 --> 4420.86] worshiping a little bit more, -[4421.94 --> 4423.04] making that a focal point -[4423.04 --> 4423.54] of your life. -[4423.54 --> 4426.22] Maybe it means -[4426.22 --> 4427.60] finding your God places. -[4427.90 --> 4429.72] What I mean by that is -[4429.72 --> 4431.22] I mentioned earlier -[4431.22 --> 4431.90] that I grew up -[4431.90 --> 4432.44] on the island. -[4432.58 --> 4434.58] I spent 13 or 14 years -[4434.58 --> 4435.22] in Victoria. -[4435.76 --> 4436.72] And on our drive to school -[4436.72 --> 4437.50] every single morning, -[4437.58 --> 4438.24] we kind of crested -[4438.24 --> 4440.06] this hill on the way, -[4440.20 --> 4441.64] and we had a really nice view -[4441.64 --> 4442.28] of Mount Baker -[4442.28 --> 4443.26] and the other Cascades -[4443.26 --> 4443.82] in the distance -[4443.82 --> 4444.50] as we did that. -[4445.06 --> 4445.86] And my mom would say -[4445.86 --> 4446.32] every morning -[4446.32 --> 4446.92] when those mountains -[4446.92 --> 4447.36] were visible, -[4447.46 --> 4447.70] she'd be, -[4447.76 --> 4448.90] oh, look at the mountains. -[4449.22 --> 4449.72] And we kids -[4449.72 --> 4450.38] would roll our eyes -[4450.38 --> 4451.44] because moms are exhausting. -[4451.44 --> 4454.72] But then I went -[4454.72 --> 4455.58] to Edmonton later, -[4455.80 --> 4456.52] and I lived there -[4456.52 --> 4457.02] for a while, -[4457.22 --> 4458.28] and that's sky country. -[4458.58 --> 4459.54] That ain't mountain country. -[4460.08 --> 4460.70] And then I moved -[4460.70 --> 4461.32] to Hamilton, -[4461.58 --> 4462.28] and the mountain -[4462.28 --> 4462.88] that they have -[4462.88 --> 4463.66] is this escarpment -[4463.66 --> 4464.28] that takes like -[4464.28 --> 4464.70] eight minutes -[4464.70 --> 4465.32] to walk up -[4465.32 --> 4466.52] in 250 steps -[4466.52 --> 4466.96] or something. -[4468.40 --> 4469.84] And now that I'm back here, -[4470.34 --> 4472.04] I find myself saying, -[4472.34 --> 4473.80] look at the mountains. -[4476.80 --> 4477.78] The mountains -[4477.78 --> 4481.22] are awe-inspiring to me. -[4481.44 --> 4484.48] that's God's presence here. -[4486.40 --> 4487.34] Maybe for you, -[4487.40 --> 4487.88] it's a hike -[4487.88 --> 4488.90] or a drive -[4488.90 --> 4489.68] or a waterfall -[4489.68 --> 4490.84] or an ocean -[4490.84 --> 4493.02] or a fishing trip -[4493.02 --> 4494.00] or a hammock -[4494.00 --> 4494.50] in the woods. -[4495.64 --> 4497.62] But where's your awe moment? -[4500.72 --> 4502.26] Where does the magnitude -[4502.26 --> 4505.14] of God capture you? -[4505.14 --> 4508.14] Sometimes the magnitude -[4508.14 --> 4510.10] of God's creation -[4510.10 --> 4511.24] can help reorient -[4511.24 --> 4512.26] our bad attitudes -[4512.26 --> 4513.50] towards that same creation -[4513.50 --> 4514.56] that we find ourselves in. -[4520.48 --> 4522.52] God is with us. -[4523.10 --> 4524.10] God is with you -[4524.10 --> 4525.62] in your joys, -[4525.84 --> 4526.10] yes, -[4526.60 --> 4527.98] in your sorrows -[4527.98 --> 4528.60] and suffering, -[4528.98 --> 4529.32] yes, -[4529.66 --> 4530.02] too. -[4531.14 --> 4532.26] God is with you -[4532.26 --> 4532.98] through His church, -[4532.98 --> 4533.60] even if we're -[4533.60 --> 4534.46] a broken people. -[4535.38 --> 4536.78] Are we leaning in? -[4537.58 --> 4538.54] Are we leaning in -[4538.54 --> 4539.62] to the presence of God? -[4540.50 --> 4541.56] Because He's there. -[4542.98 --> 4545.26] You are not alone. -[4546.42 --> 4548.72] God is with you. -[4549.84 --> 4550.12] Amen. -[4550.74 --> 4551.26] Let me pray. -[4551.94 --> 4552.46] Amen. -[4554.52 --> 4555.60] Father in heaven, -[4555.60 --> 4558.66] we know that you are -[4558.66 --> 4560.06] the creator of all things -[4560.06 --> 4560.88] and you are present -[4560.88 --> 4561.86] in our lives. -[4562.38 --> 4563.00] This story, -[4563.12 --> 4563.66] your word, -[4563.78 --> 4564.30] teaches us -[4564.30 --> 4565.78] that you are with us always, -[4566.16 --> 4567.82] even in our suffering. -[4568.50 --> 4568.74] God, -[4568.80 --> 4569.74] sometimes it's easy -[4569.74 --> 4570.80] to know that you are with us -[4570.80 --> 4571.44] when things are good, -[4571.76 --> 4572.30] but man, -[4572.36 --> 4573.08] can it be hard -[4573.08 --> 4574.54] to feel your presence -[4574.54 --> 4575.78] or to know that you are there -[4575.78 --> 4576.56] when we are suffering. -[4577.58 --> 4577.92] God, -[4577.98 --> 4578.56] we pray that -[4578.56 --> 4580.10] in our darkest times, -[4580.56 --> 4582.94] we will choose -[4582.94 --> 4583.64] our suffering, -[4583.64 --> 4586.18] knowing that it points us to you, -[4586.26 --> 4587.04] that we will lean -[4587.04 --> 4588.32] into your presence, -[4588.82 --> 4589.90] the one who suffered -[4589.90 --> 4591.08] greatly. -[4592.10 --> 4592.58] And Lord, -[4593.38 --> 4594.06] as we, -[4594.18 --> 4594.68] the church, -[4594.98 --> 4595.64] both suffer -[4595.64 --> 4596.72] and walk alongside -[4596.72 --> 4597.68] others who suffer, -[4597.82 --> 4598.00] Lord, -[4598.82 --> 4599.68] may we be willing -[4599.68 --> 4600.62] to be present -[4600.62 --> 4602.12] and be your presence -[4602.12 --> 4602.76] in the midst -[4602.76 --> 4604.36] of our brothers and sisters -[4604.36 --> 4604.98] who are going through -[4604.98 --> 4605.50] hard times. -[4605.88 --> 4607.86] May we take steps of faith. -[4608.08 --> 4610.12] May we be your hands -[4610.12 --> 4610.56] and feet -[4610.56 --> 4611.30] in this community. -[4611.84 --> 4613.00] May we do no harm, -[4613.00 --> 4613.96] but do good, -[4614.08 --> 4615.14] not for our glory, -[4615.38 --> 4616.30] but for your glory. -[4616.74 --> 4617.44] And may you -[4617.44 --> 4619.02] be glorified by that. -[4619.62 --> 4620.08] And so, God, -[4620.14 --> 4620.64] may we know -[4620.64 --> 4621.76] that we are not alone today. -[4622.20 --> 4622.60] May we know -[4622.60 --> 4623.46] that you are present -[4623.46 --> 4624.22] in our lives. -[4624.72 --> 4626.26] And may we be that present -[4626.26 --> 4626.80] in the lives -[4626.80 --> 4627.54] of those around us. -[4627.60 --> 4628.06] We pray this -[4628.06 --> 4628.96] in your Son's precious -[4628.96 --> 4630.30] and holy name. -[4630.72 --> 4630.94] Amen. -[4633.98 --> 4634.64] Please stand -[4634.64 --> 4635.12] as we sing -[4635.12 --> 4636.02] in response. -[4636.02 --> 4636.12] Amen. -[4636.12 --> 4636.22] Amen. -[4643.00 --> 4656.80] I love you, Lord. -[4656.80 --> 4659.82] Oh, your nurse, -[4659.88 --> 4662.24] he never fails me. -[4663.24 --> 4665.54] All my days -[4665.54 --> 4667.08] I've been held -[4667.08 --> 4669.42] in your hands. -[4669.42 --> 4671.24] from the moment -[4671.24 --> 4673.38] that I wake up -[4673.38 --> 4677.16] until I lay my hand. -[4677.16 --> 4679.38] I will sing -[4679.38 --> 4681.22] of the goodness -[4681.22 --> 4683.70] of God. -[4683.70 --> 4685.58] of the goodness -[4685.58 --> 4687.58] of God. -[4687.58 --> 4688.80] And all my life -[4688.80 --> 4691.26] you have been faithful. -[4693.76 --> 4696.20] And all my life -[4696.20 --> 4698.20] you have been so, -[4698.46 --> 4700.58] so good. -[4701.58 --> 4703.24] With every breath -[4703.24 --> 4705.90] that I am able, -[4707.28 --> 4708.94] I will sing -[4708.94 --> 4710.58] of the goodness -[4710.58 --> 4712.58] of God. -[4712.58 --> 4716.58] I love your voice. -[4718.58 --> 4720.32] You have led me -[4720.32 --> 4721.82] through the fire -[4721.82 --> 4725.34] in darkness night. -[4725.84 --> 4727.32] You are close -[4727.32 --> 4729.04] like no other. -[4730.66 --> 4731.56] I know you -[4731.56 --> 4732.84] as a father. -[4734.46 --> 4735.28] I know you -[4735.28 --> 4737.34] as a friend. -[4737.34 --> 4739.94] And I have lived -[4739.94 --> 4741.48] in the goodness -[4741.48 --> 4743.92] of God. -[4746.64 --> 4749.10] And all my life -[4749.10 --> 4751.48] you have been faithful. -[4753.98 --> 4756.48] And all my life -[4756.48 --> 4758.26] you have been so, -[4758.70 --> 4760.32] so good. -[4761.86 --> 4763.62] With every breath -[4763.62 --> 4766.04] that I am able, -[4766.04 --> 4769.04] I will sing -[4769.04 --> 4770.84] of the goodness -[4770.84 --> 4773.28] of God. -[4776.04 --> 4777.42] Your goodness -[4777.42 --> 4779.00] is running after, -[4779.40 --> 4781.72] it's running after me. -[4783.16 --> 4784.70] Your goodness -[4784.70 --> 4786.34] is running after, -[4786.72 --> 4789.28] it's running after me. -[4789.70 --> 4791.62] With my life laid down, -[4791.70 --> 4793.50] I surrender now. -[4793.50 --> 4795.50] I give you everything. -[4797.50 --> 4798.50] Your goodness -[4799.16 --> 4800.80] is running after, -[4801.16 --> 4803.50] it's running after me. -[4804.88 --> 4806.38] Your goodness -[4806.38 --> 4807.50] is running after, -[4808.30 --> 4810.50] it's running after me. -[4812.00 --> 4813.46] Your goodness -[4813.46 --> 4814.50] is running after, -[4815.36 --> 4817.50] it's running after me. -[4818.00 --> 4820.22] With my life laid down, -[4820.32 --> 4822.00] I surrender now. -[4822.00 --> 4824.00] I give you everything. -[4824.00 --> 4825.00] I give you everything. -[4826.00 --> 4827.00] Your goodness -[4827.00 --> 4829.00] is running after, -[4829.00 --> 4832.00] it's running after me. -[4832.00 --> 4833.00] me. -[4833.00 --> 4842.00] And all my life, -[4842.00 --> 4845.00] you have been faithful. -[4845.00 --> 4850.00] And all my life, -[4850.00 --> 4852.00] you have been so, -[4852.00 --> 4854.00] so good. -[4854.00 --> 4857.12] With every breath -[4857.12 --> 4859.00] that I am able, -[4860.00 --> 4862.00] I will sing -[4862.00 --> 4864.00] of the goodness -[4864.00 --> 4866.00] of God. -[4866.00 --> 4869.00] I will sing -[4869.00 --> 4871.00] of the goodness -[4871.00 --> 4874.00] of God. -[4874.00 --> 4875.00] God. -[4875.00 --> 4876.00] I will sing -[4876.00 --> 4877.00] of God. -[4877.00 --> 4878.00] I will sing -[4878.00 --> 4879.00] of God. -[4879.00 --> 4880.00] God. -[4880.00 --> 4881.00] God. -[4881.00 --> 4882.26] And so, -[4883.00 --> 4884.46] as we go from this place, -[4884.80 --> 4885.58] am I battery dying? -[4887.00 --> 4887.86] Oh, there we go. -[4887.96 --> 4888.36] I'm back. -[4888.80 --> 4889.42] That was my fault, -[4889.50 --> 4889.72] everyone. -[4890.28 --> 4891.48] As we go from this place, -[4891.54 --> 4892.42] know that you are sent -[4892.42 --> 4893.68] out into the world -[4893.68 --> 4894.98] to be God's presence -[4894.98 --> 4896.24] today. -[4897.00 --> 4898.04] You are not dismissed -[4898.04 --> 4898.74] from this place -[4898.74 --> 4899.68] leaving God's presence. -[4899.80 --> 4900.76] You are going with -[4900.76 --> 4901.84] God's presence today -[4901.84 --> 4903.04] to be his hands and feet -[4903.04 --> 4903.68] into the world -[4903.68 --> 4904.48] around you. -[4904.50 --> 4905.56] We invite you to stick around, -[4905.62 --> 4906.76] have some coffee with us, -[4907.16 --> 4908.18] enjoy some fellowship. -[4908.18 --> 4909.20] There are prayer partners -[4909.20 --> 4910.34] available after the service -[4910.34 --> 4910.78] as well. -[4911.16 --> 4911.92] If you need prayer -[4911.92 --> 4912.34] this morning, -[4912.46 --> 4913.66] please go and speak -[4913.66 --> 4914.26] to one of them -[4914.26 --> 4915.24] or talk to a friend -[4915.24 --> 4915.72] or a neighbor -[4915.72 --> 4916.54] or someone sitting -[4916.54 --> 4917.56] across the aisle from you. -[4917.62 --> 4918.90] We will pray with you -[4918.90 --> 4919.40] for sure. -[4919.86 --> 4921.54] But as we head in -[4921.54 --> 4922.74] to this world -[4922.74 --> 4924.26] in the presence of God, -[4924.38 --> 4926.02] hear this blessing -[4926.02 --> 4927.04] from number six. -[4928.02 --> 4929.54] The Lord bless you -[4929.54 --> 4930.52] and keep you. -[4930.98 --> 4932.40] The Lord make his face -[4932.40 --> 4933.42] shine upon you -[4933.42 --> 4934.60] and be gracious to you. -[4934.98 --> 4936.60] The Lord turn his face -[4936.60 --> 4937.38] toward you -[4937.38 --> 4939.50] and give you his peace. -[4939.92 --> 4941.46] And all of God's people said, -[4942.08 --> 4942.38] Amen. -[4942.38 --> 4942.58] Amen. -[4942.58 --> 4942.60] Amen. -[4942.60 --> 4962.16] You're the Lion of Judah, -[4962.16 --> 4964.34] the Lamb who was slain. -[4964.46 --> 4966.24] You ascended to heaven -[4966.24 --> 4968.30] and evermore will reign. -[4968.48 --> 4970.28] At the end of the age -[4970.28 --> 4972.40] when the earth you be clain, -[4972.62 --> 4973.52] they will gather -[4973.52 --> 4976.12] the nations before you. -[4976.66 --> 4978.48] And the eyes of all men -[4978.48 --> 4979.56] will be fixed -[4979.56 --> 4980.66] on the Lamb -[4980.66 --> 4982.52] who was crucified. -[4984.66 --> 4986.98] With wisdom and mercy -[4986.98 --> 4988.10] and justice, -[4988.24 --> 4988.90] you'll reign -[4988.90 --> 4992.28] at your Father's side. -[4992.28 --> 4995.12] And the angels will cry, -[4995.12 --> 5000.58] hail the Lamb. -[5000.58 --> 5003.10] Who was slain for the world, -[5003.64 --> 5006.62] rule in power. -[5008.82 --> 5010.98] And the earth will reply, -[5011.58 --> 5014.28] you shall reign -[5014.28 --> 5018.90] as the King of all kings -[5018.90 --> 5021.58] and the Lord of all hosts. -[5021.58 --> 5030.82] There's a shield in our hand -[5030.82 --> 5032.90] and a sword in our side. -[5032.90 --> 5035.02] There's a fire in our spirits -[5035.02 --> 5036.86] that cannot be denied. -[5037.12 --> 5038.00] There's a Father -[5038.00 --> 5039.24] who has told us -[5039.24 --> 5041.12] for these you have died -[5041.12 --> 5042.12] from the nations -[5042.12 --> 5044.66] who gathered before you. -[5045.20 --> 5047.04] And the years of all men -[5047.04 --> 5048.08] need to hear -[5048.08 --> 5049.08] the Lamb -[5049.08 --> 5051.82] who was crucified. -[5053.14 --> 5055.12] Who descended to hell -[5055.12 --> 5056.44] yet was raised up -[5056.44 --> 5057.20] to reign -[5057.20 --> 5060.76] at his Father's side. -[5061.20 --> 5063.26] And the angels will cry, -[5063.80 --> 5066.80] hail the Lamb. -[5068.74 --> 5071.18] Who was slain for the world, -[5071.62 --> 5074.54] rule in power. -[5074.54 --> 5079.08] And the earth will reply, -[5079.56 --> 5082.02] you shall reign. -[5084.52 --> 5086.84] As the King of all kings -[5086.84 --> 5088.96] and the Lord of all lords. -[5089.10 --> 5090.92] And the angels will cry, -[5091.46 --> 5094.40] hail the Lamb. -[5096.40 --> 5098.74] Who was slain for the world, -[5099.34 --> 5101.86] rule in power. -[5101.86 --> 5106.72] And the earth will reply, -[5107.22 --> 5109.98] you shall reign. -[5112.16 --> 5114.46] As the King of all kings -[5114.46 --> 5116.66] and the Lord of all lords. -[5116.78 --> 5118.56] As the King of all kings -[5118.56 --> 5121.32] and the Lord of all lords. -[5121.32 --> 5123.52] the King of all lords. -[5123.52 --> 5124.48] Amen. -[5127.86 --> 5128.92] All this your bounty -[5129.92 --> 5138.76] and the Lord of all cities -[5138.76 --> 5141.80] will carryout floor, -[5141.80 --> 5143.98] like the King of all kings -[5144.06 --> 5145.36] and the Lord of all have -[5145.36 --> 5146.30] rest to his pants out -[5146.30 --> 5147.38] and the Lord of all countries -[5147.38 --> 5148.64] will carry out -[5148.90 --> 5150.74] for thisallejep raw -[5150.74 --> 5180.72] Thank you. -[5180.74 --> 5210.72] Thank you. -[5210.74 --> 5212.74] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, Sep 1, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, Sep 1, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2c3ee7114345e7be13459c35036fbecdaae6f2ca..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, Sep 1, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,116 +0,0 @@ -• Praise and worship songs -• References to the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, Spirit) -• Jesus Christ as savior and redeemer -• Love and victory in Christ -• Bible references and scripture -• Christian music and worship -• Emphasis on faith, hope, and joy in adversity -• The speaker introduces themselves as Chris, one of the pastors at Langley Emanuel -• Upcoming events: church gathering at Topham Park after service, Reactivate youth conference next weekend, CPR/AED first aid training in October -• Announcements about volunteer opportunities for Reactivate and upcoming services with 200 youth attendees -• Worshiping God as the Maker -• Acknowledging God's power and care for His people -• Recognizing God's light and creation of darkness -• Praising God's sovereignty and omnipotence -• Expressing awe at God's majesty and greatness -• Celebrating God's love and redemption through Jesus Christ -• Jesus Christ's life and death -• The Holy Spirit and the Church -• Salvation through faith in Jesus Christ -• Healing and forgiveness through Jesus -• Standing with Jesus as a group -• Leaving Jesus, waiting for him to return -• Song of redemption and praise to Jesus -• Offerings for church ministries and seafarers ministry -• Seafarers ministry provides support to sailors in Vancouver harbor -• Ministry goal: provide friendship, a place to rest, and spread the gospel -• Importance of seafarers ministry due to long periods at sea -• Research shows 90% of global trade comes through ship ports -• Current chaplaincy efforts include one full-time chaplain and an intern from Regent College -• Scripture reading from Psalm 96 -• Invitation for children to join in worship time -• Prayer for the day, followed by children's blessing -• Prayers and concerns for various individuals including Dale, Maria, Peter Reesobos, Ashley, Imo, Benita, and shut-ins -• School-related prayers for students, teachers, and safety -• Church-related prayers for members, staff, and activities -• Scripture reading and prayer led by Pastor Chris -• Discussion of summer studies on the early church in the book of Acts -• The story of Paul's journey to Rome is read from Acts 28:11-31 -• The purpose of reading this story is to lean into the storytelling side and see the unstoppable spread of the gospel despite obstacles -• The mission of God and his church is highlighted as the reason for the spread of the gospel -• The narrative is set in context, referencing Paul's arrival in Jerusalem after his third missionary journey and his subsequent arrest and trial -• The story shows how the gospel was proclaimed to the Gentiles in Rome despite opposition from Jewish leaders -• Paul's teachings against the law and temple in Jerusalem lead to a crowd trying to kill him -• The Roman commander intervenes and has Paul arrested -• Paul appeals to his rights as a Roman citizen, citing the Porcian laws that prohibit beating or flogging without trial -• The commander stops and takes Paul back to the Sanhedrin for further questioning -• Jesus appears to Paul in vision while he is in the barracks, telling him to testify about him in Rome -• The prophet Isaiah uses a courtroom drama to assert God's uniqueness and power. -• God challenges other nations' gods to bring witnesses to prove their claims, but they fail. -• The Lord calls Israel to be his witnesses, testifying that he is the one true God. -• Jesus is presented as God, the Christ, the Messiah, the Son of Man, and the Savior of nations. -• God's mission to the world is to declare himself to the nations, saying "Here I am". -• The church's mission is to echo this declaration, saying that Jesus is God. -• A missiologist suggests a more profound way to read the Bible: considering how one's life fits into the story of God's mission. -• Implication of God's story in personal life -• Joining God's mission to witness and worship Him -• Finding meaning, significance, and purpose through joining God's mission -• The story continues with the transfer of Paul to Caesarea for trial under Felix -• Details about Felix's character as a Roman governor, including his harsh treatment of subjects and corruption -• Appeals to Caesar and the significance of Nero as emperor -• Festus's decision to send Paul to Rome due to his appeal -• Introduction of King Agrippa II, grandson of Herod the Great -• Paul preaching to Festus, Agrippa, Bernice, and other leaders from the Sanhedrin -• Agrippa's response to Paul's sermon and Paul's subsequent answer -• The importance of understanding the gospel truth and its significance in making sense of the world -• The key to salvation, history, and understanding one's place in God's mission is being connected to Jesus -• The only way to bear fruit that will last is through a relationship with God, glorifying him, and abiding in him -• There is no other name by which man can be saved except through Jesus -• Being united with Jesus through faith is what it means to be fully human, alive, and pleasing to God -• Gathering for worship should involve learning what it truly means to be human and finding one's place in the story of God's mission -• The word "force" is used to describe a big storm that causes the ship to wreck on the island of Malta. -• Malta is an island south of Sicily, which is a landmass that includes the boot of Italy. -• Paul miraculously survives a snake bite and heals people's illnesses, leading them to think he is a god. -• A chief official on the island invites Paul into his home, where Paul heals his father's illness, spreading news throughout the island about Paul's healing abilities. -• The people bring their sick to Paul for healing, and in fact, tradition says that the protos (leading official) becomes the first bishop of Malta. -• Luke's travel journal is like a historical account -• Luke writes history with a preaching purpose, to tell the story of the gospel and convey its truth -• He gives his reason for writing in the opening of the Gospel of Luke (Luke 1:1-4) -• The goal is to provide certainty based on tested witnesses and testimony, not just myths -• Jerome's significance in the early church and his translation of the Bible into Latin -• The importance of knowing scripture for understanding God's power and wisdom -• The connection between ignorance of scripture and ignorance of Christ -• The role of scripture as a firm foundation for faith -• Finding one's place in the story of Jesus and the mission of God -• The relationship between being a biblical witness and a personal witness to truth -• Leslie Newbegin's quote on the gospel being represented by Jesus' crucifixion -• Difficulty of reconciling Jesus' death as the means to understand human life with its absurdity -• Questioning how the truth of Jesus Christ can be possible given the seeming absurdity of his death -• The only way for reconciliation with God is through the life and death of Jesus -• Significance of Jesus' crucifixion as a means to understand everything in the world around us -• Being transformed and living a new life -• People's response to the transformed life may be strange or weird, but it makes sense when understood in context -• Not being responsible for others' responses or reactions -• The responsibility is to declare, proclaim, and live out the transformed life in a way that can be compelling to others -• The importance of proclaiming the gospel with words and life -• The distinction between those who hear but do not understand, and those who have calloused hearts -• Reference to passages in Matthew, Mark, and John (13:4-9) -• Responsibility to proclaim the gospel without being responsible for others' beliefs or unbelief -• Importance of matching actions with words and living a life that reflects one's faith -• Encouragement to pursue love, justice, and lifting up the marginalized -• The importance of declaring Jesus Christ as Lord and King -• The difficulty in understanding the gospel, but its unstoppable mission -• The inevitability of God's plan being accomplished despite individual resistance -• The power of living in the implications of the story of Jesus Christ -• The inspiration to find true selves, heart, joy, and purpose through this story -• Inspiration and guidance through prayer -• Witnessing God's story and proclaiming His truth -• Living lives that demonstrate God's power and redemption -• Praise and worship of God through song and music -• Fellowship and community among believers -• Inviting others to share their experiences with God -• Prayer and seeking God's guidance in one's life -• The speaker gives a blessing from their God, asking for divine protection and guidance. -• Specific aspects of God's presence are invoked: going before, behind, beneath, beside. -• The listener is encouraged to be unafraid and let God's blessing come upon them. -• A final statement emphasizes leaving in peace to join the mission of God. \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, Sep 1, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, Sep 1, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c1878dd928ca2aeb2e218346b8117383a3736817..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, Sep 1, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2256 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] I'm sorry, I'm sorry. -[29.98 --> 59.96] I'm sorry, I'm sorry. -[59.98 --> 89.96] I'm sorry, I'm sorry. -[89.96 --> 91.96] I'm sorry. -[119.96 --> 121.96] I'm sorry. -[121.96 --> 123.96] I'm sorry. -[123.96 --> 125.96] I'm sorry. -[125.96 --> 127.96] I'm sorry. -[127.96 --> 129.96] I'm sorry. -[129.96 --> 133.56] Praise the Father. -[134.30 --> 136.90] Praise the Son. -[137.82 --> 139.96] Praise the Spirit. -[140.96 --> 143.86] Three in one. -[143.86 --> 149.86] God of glory, majesty. -[151.86 --> 157.86] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[157.86 --> 169.86] In the morning that He rose, all of heaven held its breath. -[169.86 --> 176.86] Till that stone was moved for good, for the Lamb had conquered death. -[176.86 --> 180.70] And the dead rose from their tombs. -[180.86 --> 184.10] And the angels stood in awe. -[184.42 --> 191.22] For the souls of all who'd come to the Father are restored. -[191.86 --> 194.70] And the church of Christ was born. -[194.86 --> 198.30] Then the Spirit lit the flame. -[198.30 --> 201.30] Now this gospel truth of old. -[201.30 --> 205.34] Shall not kneel, shall not faint. -[205.34 --> 208.30] By His blood and in His name. -[208.30 --> 212.30] In His freedom I am free. -[212.30 --> 215.30] For the love of Jesus Christ. -[215.30 --> 215.98] For the love of Jesus Christ. -[215.98 --> 219.30] Who has resurrected me. -[219.30 --> 221.30] Oh. -[221.30 --> 228.30] Praise the Father. -[228.30 --> 231.30] Praise the Son. -[231.30 --> 235.30] Praise the Spirit. -[235.30 --> 238.30] Three in one. -[238.30 --> 242.30] God of glory, majesty. -[242.30 --> 248.30] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[248.30 --> 252.30] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[252.30 --> 257.30] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[257.30 --> 260.30] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[260.30 --> 287.30] Praise forever to the King of kings. -[287.30 --> 289.30] Praise the Son. -[289.30 --> 290.30] Praise the Son. -[290.30 --> 291.30] merchantsлуken heart to God Joy. -[291.30 --> 292.30] Gosh is on a wall of kings. -[292.30 --> 293.30] Yves稱我不еть. -[293.30 --> 294.04] May the Son the Lord have astone -[294.04 --> 295.04] Him should be free. -[295.04 --> 296.08] Thank you. -[296.08 --> 297.08] Praise the Son. -[297.08 --> 297.56] Amen. -[297.56 --> 298.08] Praise the Son. -[298.08 --> 301.96] Ye Gentleman, shaders, fiducius, -[301.96 --> 303.32] thunder, skeptic, atin ee, -[303.32 --> 304.40] I also bring Him whoいci em the Son of kings. -[304.40 --> 305.40] War and LIAM could be in love with God. -[305.40 --> 305.84] You as켜zen them in love with victory. -[305.84 --> 306.48] Love is coming here. -[306.48 --> 307.80] Episode 6 and Santiago,울! -[307.80 --> 309.12] G십 offerOver 7 in relationship. -[309.18 --> 309.74] God isSN не the Holy Spirit. -[309.74 --> 310.74] God? -[310.74 --> 311.74] Ifyl? -[311.74 --> 312.74] God ofmorging fire will be the Ele KELL COFT en Genewe Charlie. -[312.74 --> 313.74] I'm old Daisy? -[313.74 --> 318.74] By your side is love, is the rescue in the raging fire. -[319.74 --> 322.74] Praise is rising like a battle cry. -[322.74 --> 326.74] Hallelujah, Jesus saves. -[326.74 --> 330.74] So we won't stop singing when the lights go out. -[330.74 --> 334.74] We won't stop singing when we're feeling down. -[334.74 --> 338.74] Can't stay silent, there's a love we find. -[338.74 --> 341.74] Hallelujah, Jesus saves. -[341.74 --> 343.74] Oh. -[343.74 --> 345.74] Oh. -[345.74 --> 347.74] Oh. -[347.74 --> 349.74] Oh. -[349.74 --> 352.74] Oh. -[352.74 --> 354.74] Oh. -[354.74 --> 359.74] Hallelujah, Jesus saves. -[359.74 --> 363.74] Oh, my soul, take courage. -[363.74 --> 370.74] Hard hope follows the gospel. -[370.74 --> 374.74] oh -[389.22 --> 392.74] is -[400.74 --> 414.74] is -[420.74 --> 428.74] jesus -[430.74 --> 434.74] oh -[434.74 --> 438.74] hallelujah jesus -[438.74 --> 442.74] oh -[442.74 --> 446.74] oh -[446.74 --> 448.74] oh -[448.74 --> 450.74] oh -[450.74 --> 452.74] hallelujah jesus -[452.74 --> 454.74] yes -[454.74 --> 456.74] i know there's no reason -[456.74 --> 458.74] i'm alive now -[458.74 --> 460.74] to take my cross -[460.74 --> 462.74] and stand my ground -[462.74 --> 464.74] i'm not ashamed -[464.74 --> 466.74] i'm singing it loud -[466.74 --> 468.74] hallelujah -[468.74 --> 470.74] jesus -[470.74 --> 472.74] oh -[472.74 --> 474.74] is -[474.74 --> 476.74] oh -[476.74 --> 478.74] is -[478.74 --> 480.74] oh -[480.74 --> 482.74] oh -[482.74 --> 484.74] oh -[484.74 --> 486.74] oh -[486.74 --> 488.74] oh -[488.74 --> 490.74] oh -[490.74 --> 492.74] oh -[492.74 --> 494.74] oh -[494.74 --> 496.74] oh -[496.74 --> 498.74] oh -[498.74 --> 500.74] oh -[500.74 --> 502.74] oh -[502.74 --> 504.74] oh -[504.74 --> 506.74] oh -[506.74 --> 508.74] oh -[508.74 --> 510.74] oh -[510.74 --> 512.74] oh -[512.74 --> 514.74] oh -[514.74 --> 516.74] oh -[516.74 --> 518.74] jesus -[518.74 --> 520.74] oh -[520.74 --> 522.74] oh -[522.74 --> 524.74] oh -[524.74 --> 526.74] oh -[526.74 --> 528.74] oh -[528.74 --> 530.74] oh -[530.74 --> 532.74] oh -[532.74 --> 534.74] oh -[534.74 --> 538.74] He's safe -[538.74 --> 540.74] Hallelujah -[540.74 --> 544.74] Hallelujah -[544.74 --> 550.74] He's safe -[550.74 --> 554.74] Yeah -[564.74 --> 570.74] Good morning -[570.74 --> 574.74] Welcome to church -[574.74 --> 578.74] Special welcome if you are a guest with us this morning -[578.74 --> 582.74] My name is Chris. I'm one of the pastors here at Langley Emanuel -[582.74 --> 586.74] And it's my privilege along with these others and some that we haven't yet met -[586.74 --> 590.74] To lead in our shared worship this morning -[590.74 --> 594.74] Before we begin we've got a couple announcements to run through -[594.74 --> 602.74] And the first is that after church today we are going over to Topham Park -[602.74 --> 606.74] Which is down 216 at 91st -[606.74 --> 608.74] Yeah, 216 and 91st -[608.74 --> 610.74] And we're going to have some time together -[610.74 --> 612.74] There's a potluck, we're going to play some softball -[612.74 --> 618.74] And I think there's also going to be like an outdoor volleyball net set up in one of the corners there -[618.74 --> 622.74] For those who don't want to play softball -[622.74 --> 624.74] And so we want to encourage you to come to join us -[624.74 --> 626.74] I hope that you are prepared for that -[626.74 --> 628.74] And that you have some meal -[628.74 --> 630.74] A meal ready to share -[630.74 --> 632.74] If this is the first you're hearing about it -[632.74 --> 634.74] We want you to come -[634.74 --> 636.74] Even if you don't have a meal -[636.74 --> 638.74] In fact, perhaps especially if you don't have a meal -[638.74 --> 640.74] Because there will be more food than we know what to do with -[640.74 --> 644.74] So come on out at Topham Park after service today -[644.74 --> 650.74] We're going to go from about 12 until 3 playing some softball together -[650.74 --> 652.74] Before you head out to the park -[652.74 --> 656.74] This is your last chance to sign up to volunteer at Reactivate -[656.74 --> 662.74] And so Reactivate is a youth conference that we are hosting here next weekend -[662.74 --> 668.74] And we have about 10 or so slots left to fill for volunteer positions -[668.74 --> 673.74] And so Rachel will be at the back at the Connect booth after service -[673.74 --> 677.74] And she can help you sign up in those last few places there -[677.74 --> 679.74] Additionally, next week Sunday -[679.74 --> 681.74] We're going to worship with all the youth that come -[681.74 --> 684.74] And so we're really excited for that worship service -[684.74 --> 686.74] We're hoping to pack this place out -[686.74 --> 692.74] And so please come expecting good, loud, boisterous worship -[692.74 --> 698.74] Expecting about 200 youth and leaders joining with us as well -[698.74 --> 704.74] But we really want to fill this place and surround that morning in worship together -[704.74 --> 707.74] And then lastly, one final announcement -[707.74 --> 709.74] If you've been here the last couple of weeks -[709.74 --> 715.74] We've been talking about a CPR and AED first aid training session -[715.74 --> 718.74] That's going to be happening in October, on October 19th -[718.74 --> 720.74] It's going to run from 1.30 to 4.30 -[720.74 --> 722.74] If that's something you're interested in -[722.74 --> 724.74] Please talk to Heather Vartstra -[724.74 --> 726.74] She would love to get you signed up for that -[726.74 --> 730.74] The cost for that has been reduced as well to $45 -[730.74 --> 734.74] And so please sign up, participate in that -[734.74 --> 737.74] If that's something that you would be blessed by -[737.74 --> 740.74] Or the ministry that you run here would be blessed to have you in doing that -[740.74 --> 742.74] I think that's it for announcements -[742.74 --> 744.74] And so, are you guys ready to worship? -[744.74 --> 747.74] Yeah, there's someone, good -[747.74 --> 749.74] Let's stand together -[749.74 --> 750.74] Let's stand together -[750.74 --> 755.74] We are ushered by God's Spirit into His presence to worship Him -[755.74 --> 757.74] And He meets us in this place -[757.74 --> 760.74] He welcomes us and He greets us in His name -[760.74 --> 765.74] And so, open your heart, open your hands, receive the greeting of our good God -[765.74 --> 770.74] Grace, mercy, and peace to you -[770.74 --> 771.74] From God our Father -[771.74 --> 775.74] From the Lord Jesus Christ, Son, and our Savior -[775.74 --> 778.74] Through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit -[778.74 --> 779.74] Amen -[779.74 --> 783.74] As God has greeted us, I invite you to turn to those around you -[783.74 --> 785.74] And welcome them in our worship this morning -[785.74 --> 786.74] Thank you -[815.74 --> 821.74] Our call to worship today is from Psalm 95 -[821.74 --> 824.74] Come, let us sing joy to the Lord -[824.74 --> 827.74] Let us shout aloud to the rock of our salvation -[827.74 --> 831.74] Let us come before Him with thanksgiving and extol Him with music and song -[831.74 --> 836.74] For the Lord is the great God, the great King above all gods -[836.74 --> 840.74] In His hands are the depths of the earth and the mountain peaks belong to Him -[840.74 --> 844.74] The sea is His, for He made it, and His hands formed the dry land -[844.74 --> 846.74] Come, let us bow down in worship -[846.74 --> 848.74] Let us kneel before the Lord our Maker -[848.74 --> 850.74] For He is our God -[850.74 --> 852.74] And we are the people of His pasture -[852.74 --> 854.74] The flock under His care -[854.74 --> 875.74] He is the Lord -[875.74 --> 877.74] He is the Lord -[877.74 --> 879.74] He brings the light -[879.74 --> 883.74] He is the Lord -[883.74 --> 888.74] His full-tills of darkness created the light -[888.74 --> 892.74] He is the Lord -[892.74 --> 894.74] For His light comes to Him -[894.74 --> 896.74] Never-ending near days -[896.74 --> 900.74] He is the Lord -[900.74 --> 905.74] When He grows in power and we call on His name -[905.74 --> 908.74] He is the Lord -[908.74 --> 909.74] To His power -[909.74 --> 913.74] To His power -[913.74 --> 917.74] Oh Lord our God -[917.74 --> 921.74] To His power -[921.74 --> 925.74] Oh Lord our God -[925.74 --> 926.74] God -[926.74 --> 927.74] The God -[927.74 --> 939.74] The God -[939.74 --> 940.74] The God's full of Lord is the home for our nation -[940.74 --> 942.74] You are the Lord -[942.74 --> 947.74] It's the power of God for our salvation -[947.74 --> 951.84] You are Lord -[951.84 --> 956.82] We ask not for riches but look to the cross -[956.82 --> 960.60] You are Lord -[960.60 --> 965.40] And for our inheritance to steal us the loss -[965.40 --> 969.18] You are Lord -[969.18 --> 999.16] You are Lord -[999.18 --> 1003.18] You are Lord -[1003.18 --> 1005.18] You are Lord -[1029.18 --> 1037.18] You are Lord -[1037.18 --> 1045.18] From the highest of life to the depths of the sea -[1045.18 --> 1053.18] Creation's revealing your majesty -[1053.18 --> 1063.18] From the colors of fall to the fragrance of spring -[1063.18 --> 1073.18] Every creature unique in the song that it sings -[1073.18 --> 1077.18] All is plainly -[1077.18 --> 1079.18] Inescribable -[1079.18 --> 1081.18] Uncontainable -[1081.18 --> 1085.18] You place the stars in the sky -[1085.18 --> 1089.18] You know that by name -[1089.18 --> 1091.18] You are amazing -[1091.18 --> 1093.18] You are amazing -[1093.18 --> 1097.18] You are amazing -[1097.18 --> 1099.18] All powerful -[1099.18 --> 1101.18] Uncontainable -[1101.18 --> 1107.18] Lost that we fall to our knees as we lovely proclaim -[1107.18 --> 1109.18] You are amazing -[1109.18 --> 1111.18] You are amazing -[1111.18 --> 1113.18] You are amazing -[1113.18 --> 1115.18] You are amazing -[1115.18 --> 1117.18] You are amazing -[1117.18 --> 1119.18] That you are amazing -[1119.18 --> 1121.18] With all your nations -[1121.18 --> 1123.18] You are amazing -[1123.18 --> 1125.18] You are amazing -[1125.18 --> 1127.18] You are amazing -[1127.18 --> 1129.18] in these four houses -[1129.18 --> 1133.18] made in with snow -[1135.18 --> 1137.18] Who would have in the sun -[1137.18 --> 1141.18] and give source to his light -[1145.18 --> 1147.18] And conceited to bring us -[1147.18 --> 1151.18] the coolness of life -[1151.18 --> 1153.18] But we have come -[1153.18 --> 1155.18] indescribable -[1155.18 --> 1157.18] Unpertainable -[1157.18 --> 1159.18] You place the stars -[1159.18 --> 1161.18] in the sky -[1161.18 --> 1163.18] and you know they're -[1163.18 --> 1165.18] running -[1165.18 --> 1167.18] You are amazing -[1167.18 --> 1169.18] God -[1173.18 --> 1175.18] All-powerful -[1175.18 --> 1177.18] Untameable -[1177.18 --> 1179.18] A strap we fall -[1179.18 --> 1181.18] to our knees as we -[1181.18 --> 1183.18] lovely proclaim -[1183.18 --> 1185.18] You are amazing -[1185.18 --> 1187.18] You are amazing -[1187.18 --> 1189.18] God -[1189.18 --> 1193.18] In this -[1193.18 --> 1195.18] struggle -[1195.18 --> 1197.18] uncontainable -[1197.18 --> 1199.18] You place the stars in the sky -[1199.18 --> 1201.18] and you build them -[1201.18 --> 1203.18] You are amazing -[1203.18 --> 1205.18] You are amazing -[1205.18 --> 1207.18] God -[1207.18 --> 1211.18] Unparable -[1211.18 --> 1213.18] Unchangeable -[1213.18 --> 1215.18] You see the depths of my heart -[1215.18 --> 1217.18] And you love me the same -[1217.18 --> 1219.18] You are amazing God -[1219.18 --> 1221.18] You are amazing -[1221.18 --> 1223.18] You are amazing God -[1223.18 --> 1225.18] You see the depths of my heart -[1225.18 --> 1227.18] You love me the same -[1227.18 --> 1229.18] You are amazing God -[1229.18 --> 1231.18] You see the depths of my heart -[1231.18 --> 1233.18] And you love me the same -[1233.18 --> 1235.18] You are amazing God -[1235.18 --> 1237.18] You are amazing -[1237.18 --> 1241.18] You are amazing God -[1241.18 --> 1245.18] You are amazing God -[1245.18 --> 1247.18] Thank you -[1265.18 --> 1267.18] Join us in reading -[1267.18 --> 1269.18] The apostles' creed -[1269.18 --> 1278.86] I believe in God the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. -[1279.24 --> 1283.74] I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, -[1284.34 --> 1288.96] who was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. -[1289.78 --> 1295.18] He was sovereign under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. -[1295.74 --> 1297.02] He descended to hell. -[1297.02 --> 1300.46] The third day he rose again from the dead. -[1301.08 --> 1306.56] He ascended to heaven and is seated at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. -[1307.36 --> 1310.74] From there he will come to judge the living and the dead. -[1311.72 --> 1315.90] I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Holy Catholic Church, -[1316.52 --> 1319.94] the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, -[1320.54 --> 1325.18] the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. -[1327.02 --> 1354.28] I believe in Jesus, -[1354.28 --> 1360.28] I believe he is the Son of God. -[1362.14 --> 1366.28] I believe he died and rose again. -[1368.38 --> 1372.28] I believe he paid for us all. -[1372.28 --> 1378.28] I believe he is here now. -[1378.28 --> 1380.28] I believe he is here now. -[1380.28 --> 1381.28] I believe he is here now. -[1381.28 --> 1384.28] Standing in our name. -[1384.28 --> 1386.28] Standing in our name. -[1386.28 --> 1390.28] Here is the power to heal now. -[1390.28 --> 1392.28] The power to heal now. -[1392.28 --> 1394.28] And the grace to heal now. -[1394.28 --> 1396.28] And the grace to forgive. -[1396.28 --> 1398.28] I believe he is here now. -[1398.28 --> 1400.28] I believe he is here now. -[1400.28 --> 1402.28] I believe he is here now. -[1402.28 --> 1404.28] I believe he is here now. -[1404.28 --> 1406.28] I believe you are here now. -[1406.28 --> 1410.28] I believe you are here now. -[1410.28 --> 1412.28] I believe you are here now. -[1412.28 --> 1416.28] I believe you are here now. -[1416.28 --> 1418.28] I believe you are here now. -[1418.28 --> 1428.28] I believe you are here now. -[1428.28 --> 1433.28] Standing in our hands -[1433.28 --> 1437.38] Here with the power to heal -[1437.38 --> 1444.28] And the grace to forgive -[1444.28 --> 1450.28] I'm leaving you, Lord -[1450.28 --> 1456.28] I leave you, Lord, Son of God -[1456.28 --> 1462.28] I leave you, die and rose again -[1462.28 --> 1468.28] I leave you, pray for us all -[1468.28 --> 1474.28] I leave you, are you now? -[1474.28 --> 1477.28] Standing in our hands -[1477.28 --> 1481.28] Standing in our hands -[1481.28 --> 1485.28] Here with the power to heal -[1485.28 --> 1491.28] And the grace to forgive -[1491.28 --> 1497.28] I leave you, are you now? -[1497.28 --> 1499.28] I leave you, are you now? -[1499.28 --> 1503.28] Standing in our hands -[1503.28 --> 1505.28] Standing in our hands -[1505.28 --> 1509.28] Here with the power to heal -[1509.28 --> 1515.28] And the grace to forgive -[1515.28 --> 1519.28] And the grace to forgive -[1519.28 --> 1521.28] Amen -[1521.28 --> 1531.28] Come to Jesus Christ the crucified -[1531.28 --> 1541.28] Raised the praying at the Father's side -[1541.28 --> 1547.28] His foolishness to those who cannot see -[1547.28 --> 1553.28] Blinded by the lies that I believe -[1553.28 --> 1557.28] So let the church arise -[1557.28 --> 1559.28] Let the act of rain -[1559.28 --> 1561.28] Longed by the world has heard -[1561.28 --> 1563.28] And the risen King -[1563.28 --> 1565.28] Song of the redeemed -[1565.28 --> 1567.28] Holy we shall sing -[1567.28 --> 1569.28] Hope of all the world has heard -[1569.28 --> 1571.28] Christ the risen King -[1571.28 --> 1573.28] Will wait -[1573.28 --> 1574.28] We are not ashamed -[1574.28 --> 1577.28] For the God of the world has heard -[1577.28 --> 1579.28] Let the act of rain -[1579.28 --> 1581.28] Let the act of rain -[1581.28 --> 1583.28] Let the act of rain -[1583.28 --> 1585.28] Of all the world has heard -[1585.28 --> 1587.28] Christ the risen King -[1587.28 --> 1589.28] Song of the redeemed -[1589.28 --> 1591.28] Holy we shall sing -[1591.28 --> 1593.28] Hope of all the world has earned -[1593.28 --> 1595.28] Christ the risen King -[1595.28 --> 1599.28] Oh wait, we are not ashamed -[1599.28 --> 1607.10] For the gospel is the power of God to save -[1607.10 --> 1612.26] This way, we are not ashamed -[1612.26 --> 1618.32] For we have no other Savior to proclaim -[1618.32 --> 1624.96] Christ, you know the life, the truth, the way -[1629.28 --> 1642.28] The enemies of God are in a rage -[1642.28 --> 1649.38] Opposing Him, their efforts are in vain -[1649.38 --> 1655.12] For every age the gospel will endure -[1655.12 --> 1662.12] Spirits with the church forevermore -[1662.92 --> 1670.28] So let the church arise, let me at the ring -[1670.28 --> 1677.12] To all the world has heard, Christ the risen King -[1677.12 --> 1683.44] A song of glory deep, boldly we shall sing -[1683.44 --> 1689.44] The hope of all the world is Christ the risen King -[1689.44 --> 1694.44] For we, we are not ashamed -[1694.44 --> 1702.44] For the gospel is the power of God to save -[1702.44 --> 1708.44] And speak, we are not ashamed -[1708.44 --> 1714.44] For we have no other Savior to proclaim -[1714.44 --> 1721.44] And speak, we are not ashamed -[1721.44 --> 1729.44] For we have no other Savior to proclaim -[1729.44 --> 1734.44] And speak, we are not ashamed -[1734.44 --> 1740.44] For we have a great salvation in His name -[1740.44 --> 1747.44] Rise alone, the light, the truth, the way -[1747.44 --> 1754.44] Rise alone, the light, the truth, the way -[1754.44 --> 1761.44] Please be seated -[1761.44 --> 1765.44] Please be seated -[1765.44 --> 1789.44] So good morning, my name is Pearl -[1789.44 --> 1792.44] And I am a deacon here at Langley Emanuel -[1792.44 --> 1797.44] We continue our worship by having an offering -[1797.44 --> 1802.44] Today's offering is both for the ministries of this church -[1802.44 --> 1804.44] And for seafarers ministry -[1804.44 --> 1809.44] Seafarers ministry is supported by our local classes -[1809.44 --> 1814.44] And it serves all the seafarers that come in to the harbor -[1814.44 --> 1816.44] To the port of Vancouver -[1816.44 --> 1820.44] And the mission and vision of seafarers ministry -[1820.44 --> 1822.44] Is to provide friendship -[1822.44 --> 1826.44] And a place to hang out on shore -[1826.44 --> 1830.44] And to spread the gospel to the seafarers -[1830.44 --> 1832.44] That come into Vancouver -[1832.44 --> 1837.44] And you can well imagine that that is a much appreciated ministry -[1837.44 --> 1842.44] As the seafarers are often at sea for more than six months of the year -[1842.44 --> 1843.44] They are away from their families -[1843.44 --> 1847.44] So to have a place where they can be provided with some friendship -[1847.44 --> 1852.44] And with some good news is a respite for them -[1852.44 --> 1857.44] Researching the website -[1857.44 --> 1862.44] I was informed that about 90% of everything that we have -[1862.44 --> 1866.44] Actually comes in via the ship ports -[1866.44 --> 1871.44] So they are a real service to the entire economy of the world -[1871.44 --> 1879.44] Currently there is one full-time chaplain at the CRCC seafarers -[1879.44 --> 1881.44] His name is Gary Rusma -[1881.44 --> 1885.44] And then this past summer there was an intern there as well -[1885.44 --> 1888.44] An internist student from Regent College -[1888.44 --> 1891.44] Who apparently was a real blessing to Gary -[1891.44 --> 1894.44] Because it offered him a chance to have some time off -[1894.44 --> 1898.44] In Psalm 96 we read -[1898.44 --> 1900.44] Ascribe to the Lord -[1900.44 --> 1902.44] Ascribe to the Lord -[1902.44 --> 1904.44] O family of nations -[1904.44 --> 1907.44] Ascribe to the Lord glory and strength -[1907.44 --> 1910.44] Ascribe to the Lord the glory to his name -[1910.44 --> 1912.44] Bring an offering -[1912.44 --> 1914.44] And come into his courts -[1914.44 --> 1916.44] So do give generously -[1916.44 --> 1919.44] As we have been so generously blessed by our Heavenly Father -[1919.44 --> 1921.44] Ily sa tylko -[1921.44 --> 1925.44] O -[1925.44 --> 1927.44] Amen. -[1955.44 --> 1957.44] Amen. -[1985.44 --> 1987.44] Amen. -[2015.44 --> 2017.44] Amen. -[2045.44 --> 2047.44] Amen. -[2075.44 --> 2077.44] Amen. -[2105.44 --> 2107.44] Amen. -[2107.44 --> 2109.44] Hallelujah. -[2109.44 --> 2111.44] Hallelujah. -[2111.44 --> 2113.44] Hallelujah. -[2113.44 --> 2115.44] Hallelujah. -[2117.44 --> 2135.42] I would love to invite all of the kids who are here up to the -[2135.42 --> 2138.62] about kindergarten thereabouts, give or take. -[2138.62 --> 2141.06] You can come and join me up at the front right now, -[2141.16 --> 2143.32] and then we'll head off to children's worship time. -[2143.58 --> 2145.44] So come on forward. -[2148.42 --> 2149.18] There's more coming. -[2151.22 --> 2152.04] Come on up. -[2152.12 --> 2152.72] Come on up. -[2154.74 --> 2155.96] Just a handful today. -[2156.02 --> 2156.84] How's everybody doing? -[2157.70 --> 2158.00] Good? -[2158.62 --> 2160.00] Are you ready for children's worship time? -[2160.36 --> 2160.80] Yeah? -[2161.26 --> 2162.90] So we're going to do a little prayer, -[2163.04 --> 2164.92] and then we'll head on off to the back, okay? -[2164.92 --> 2166.90] Can you fold your hands and close your eyes? -[2167.28 --> 2167.84] Here we go. -[2167.92 --> 2168.40] Let's pray. -[2171.88 --> 2173.90] Dear God, thank you so much for this day. -[2174.00 --> 2175.08] Thank you that we could come to church -[2175.08 --> 2177.54] and that we could learn more about you. -[2177.92 --> 2180.44] Be with us now as we go to children's worship time -[2180.44 --> 2182.70] or stay here in the sanctuary and open up the Bible -[2182.70 --> 2185.02] and learn more about what it is you want to teach us. -[2185.12 --> 2185.58] In your name. -[2185.96 --> 2186.32] Amen. -[2187.54 --> 2187.84] All right. -[2187.88 --> 2188.56] We're going to stand up, -[2188.64 --> 2191.32] and we're going to do the children's blessing together. -[2191.42 --> 2191.86] So we're going to say, -[2191.86 --> 2193.16] May the Lord be with you. -[2193.48 --> 2193.78] All right? -[2193.82 --> 2195.00] We're going to say it at the same time. -[2195.06 --> 2195.52] Are you ready? -[2196.24 --> 2197.56] One, two, three. -[2198.10 --> 2200.16] The Lord be with you. -[2200.60 --> 2202.06] Also with you. -[2202.68 --> 2202.94] All right. -[2202.98 --> 2203.68] You know where you're going. -[2203.68 --> 2204.36] All right. -[2204.46 --> 2206.16] We're going to be here. -[2206.54 --> 2207.88] We're going to be here. -[2210.40 --> 2218.72] We're going to go. -[2218.72 --> 2231.66] Kevin, I was hoping for a story about the dog or with the dog. -[2232.26 --> 2233.52] Got off easy this morning. -[2236.38 --> 2237.78] Hi, my name is Dick. -[2237.98 --> 2241.86] I'm on council here, and it is my turn to pray this morning. -[2243.48 --> 2246.72] A lot happens the week before when it's a person's turn to pray. -[2246.72 --> 2250.52] And if you don't believe that, just ask anybody who's on. -[2252.48 --> 2255.86] This morning, I'm just going to read a list of concerns. -[2257.44 --> 2262.12] And the one is thanks by Judy Dykstra and her friend Vera. -[2263.12 --> 2265.82] Vera is well and participating again. -[2267.68 --> 2271.22] Our thoughts and prayers and hearts go out to Dale and Maria. -[2271.22 --> 2277.46] They just found out that, well, just found out a while ago, Peter Reesobos has colon cancer. -[2278.50 --> 2280.78] And he's having major surgery on Tuesday. -[2280.94 --> 2283.84] So if you would keep them in your prayers this week, especially on Tuesday. -[2285.34 --> 2289.24] Mark and Dee's sister-in-law, Ashley, has breast cancer. -[2289.86 --> 2293.16] She has an appointment this Thursday to determine next steps. -[2293.16 --> 2297.22] Imo and Benita are still waiting for surgery. -[2297.64 --> 2300.20] This time it's scheduled for the 9th. -[2302.20 --> 2303.56] Pray for the shut-ins. -[2303.98 --> 2307.28] People who, for various reasons, can't join us. -[2307.80 --> 2311.26] And there's a whole host of people and a host of reasons. -[2312.72 --> 2313.64] And then school. -[2314.66 --> 2315.76] I want to remember school. -[2315.76 --> 2318.00] September 1st is always a big day. -[2319.00 --> 2326.14] I always question the grandkids if they're waiting to see, number one, who's in their class. -[2326.58 --> 2328.84] Number two, who their teacher is. -[2328.96 --> 2331.18] And sometimes that depends on how old they are. -[2331.58 --> 2333.90] If they're grade one, two, kindergarten, it's pretty easy. -[2334.24 --> 2334.82] They're not picky. -[2335.26 --> 2336.20] They'll take any teacher. -[2336.76 --> 2337.44] Get a little older. -[2337.72 --> 2338.02] Well. -[2340.32 --> 2341.36] And then church. -[2341.68 --> 2342.80] This is a new year again. -[2343.58 --> 2344.66] A lot of stuff starts. -[2344.66 --> 2346.46] A lot of people are involved. -[2347.16 --> 2349.86] A lot of people would really, really covet your prayers. -[2350.98 --> 2358.64] When I'm up here praying, thinking about praying, it never ceases to amaze me how often Jesus, -[2359.14 --> 2361.80] in the scriptures, took time out to pray. -[2362.52 --> 2364.98] And if he needed it, so do we. -[2365.66 --> 2368.36] And God invites each and every one of us. -[2368.36 --> 2378.02] If you have time, and we probably all do a bit, just spend some time in prayer with our Lord and Savior. -[2378.42 --> 2378.96] Let's pray. -[2380.88 --> 2382.62] Father, Lord in heaven, Lord, thank you. -[2383.64 --> 2385.80] Another sunny, beautiful, beautiful day. -[2385.80 --> 2393.94] Lord, we pray will you be with the people who are here in these pews, chairs. -[2394.54 --> 2399.20] Lord, each one of us in Psalm 139, you knew us. -[2399.26 --> 2399.94] You know us. -[2400.22 --> 2401.42] You know what we think. -[2401.52 --> 2405.66] You know what we want to say, what we don't say, what we do say, what we shouldn't say. -[2406.78 --> 2409.82] Lord, you have every day mapped out for us. -[2409.82 --> 2419.48] Lord, we pray will you help and guide us when we don't do or think or say appropriate things. -[2420.22 --> 2421.56] Lord, school's coming up. -[2422.64 --> 2423.74] Another new year. -[2424.22 --> 2425.64] Some already are there. -[2426.66 --> 2427.48] People travel. -[2428.86 --> 2434.32] People travel every day when the kids come and go on the bus or in vehicles or whatever. -[2435.00 --> 2436.06] Lord, we pray for safety. -[2436.06 --> 2443.06] We pray for wisdom and health for teachers, for students, for anybody who's involved. -[2444.44 --> 2449.90] Lord, we pray for our church, every single person involved in it. -[2450.90 --> 2458.02] Lord, you know exactly who we are, where we are, what we do, what we should do. -[2459.06 --> 2461.06] Lord, we ask you for strength and for wisdom. -[2462.08 --> 2464.80] Lord, we also want to pray for the people we mentioned earlier. -[2466.06 --> 2476.72] Lord, if they're shut in, if they're having a family member who needs surgery or have ailments or, Lord, whatever, you know. -[2476.82 --> 2478.42] You know exactly what's needed. -[2479.12 --> 2483.10] We pray, Lord, will you help us to spend time this week talking to you, Lord? -[2484.00 --> 2485.08] And will you answer us? -[2485.66 --> 2487.96] Lord, sometimes as we pray, we don't like the answers. -[2488.38 --> 2489.50] Sometimes the answer is no. -[2489.96 --> 2491.06] Sometimes the answer is wait. -[2491.06 --> 2493.08] Sometimes the answer is yes. -[2493.68 --> 2497.10] But, Lord, help us to seek you out, Lord. -[2497.24 --> 2501.94] You have always looked after us and sought us out. -[2502.66 --> 2508.28] Lord, this morning as we listen to your word, as Pastor Chris brings your word, give him clarity. -[2509.64 --> 2511.18] Give him strength. -[2511.32 --> 2511.86] Give him wisdom. -[2511.86 --> 2521.16] We pray, Lord, give us open ears, open hearts, that we not only sit here and listen, but also go out and do. -[2522.12 --> 2523.42] Thank you in Jesus' name. -[2523.60 --> 2523.84] Amen. -[2523.84 --> 2523.94] Amen. -[2523.94 --> 2523.98] Amen. -[2523.98 --> 2524.04] Amen. -[2524.04 --> 2524.08] Amen. -[2524.08 --> 2524.14] Amen. -[2524.14 --> 2526.08] Amen. -[2526.08 --> 2526.14] Amen. -[2526.14 --> 2528.08] Amen. -[2528.08 --> 2530.08] Amen. -[2541.86 --> 2543.28] And we're going to have to talk about this summer together. -[2543.50 --> 2548.26] We have been looking at stories from the early church. -[2548.40 --> 2553.28] We've been kind of bouncing around in the book of Acts, looking at different themes through that. -[2553.36 --> 2568.60] We're going to round out that story and that look at the book of Acts today by reading and hearing the last part of Paul's missionary work recorded in the book of Acts. -[2568.60 --> 2579.44] his journey to Rome. We're going to read the last portion of that, chapter 28, starting at verse 11, -[2579.58 --> 2585.18] and I'll read through. But we're really going to lean into the story side of things this morning, -[2585.30 --> 2591.18] and so we're going to, after reading that, we'll start and we'll back up and kind of hear the story -[2591.18 --> 2598.24] of what got us to that. We have been, throughout this summer as well, giving out little clipboards. -[2598.24 --> 2602.90] They're on the back at the Children's Worship Time booth there, where kids have the opportunity to -[2602.90 --> 2608.36] draw pictures based on what they hear, and there's other crosswords and games and things in there. -[2608.96 --> 2613.42] If you do draw a picture, we'd love to have that. We'd love to collect it. We're going to -[2613.42 --> 2618.74] make a little art gallery wall next month with those collections of pictures there. So please, -[2619.22 --> 2625.18] if you are moved to do that, make sure that it gets to the office or to myself after service today. -[2625.18 --> 2632.94] Okay. Let's begin by reading together from Acts 28. We'll read starting at verse 11. -[2634.78 --> 2639.56] If you have a Bible, I encourage you to open that up because we're going to be jumping around in the -[2639.56 --> 2642.14] last book of Acts, the last part of the book of Acts together. -[2642.14 --> 2653.30] After three months, we put out to sea in a ship that had wintered in the island. It was an -[2653.30 --> 2660.00] Alexandrian ship with the figurehead of the twin gods Castor and Pollux. We put in at Syracuse and -[2660.00 --> 2667.02] stayed there three days. From there, we set sail and arrived at Regium. And the next day, the south wind -[2667.02 --> 2672.82] came up and on the following day, we reached Petulli. There we found some brothers and sisters -[2672.82 --> 2680.38] who invited us to spend a week with them. And so we came to Rome. The brothers and sisters there had -[2680.38 --> 2685.94] heard that we were coming and they traveled as far as the forum of Appius and the three taverns to meet -[2685.94 --> 2692.08] us. At the sight of these people, Paul thanked God and was encouraged. And when we got to Rome, -[2692.08 --> 2699.36] Paul was allowed to live by himself with a soldier to guard him. Three days later, he called together -[2699.36 --> 2705.58] the local Jewish leaders. When they had assembled, Paul said to them, my brothers, although I have done -[2705.58 --> 2711.94] nothing against our people or against the customs of our ancestors, I was arrested in Jerusalem and -[2711.94 --> 2718.46] handed over to the Romans. They examined me and wanted to release me because I was not guilty of any -[2718.46 --> 2726.50] crime deserving death. The Jews objected. So I was compelled to intend to, for I was compelled -[2726.50 --> 2733.00] to make an appeal to Caesar. I certainly did not intend to bring any charge against my own people. -[2733.44 --> 2739.60] For this reason, I have asked to see you and talk with you. It is because of the hope of Israel that I -[2739.60 --> 2746.96] am bound with this chain. And they replied, we have not received any letters from Judea concerning you -[2746.96 --> 2752.76] and none of our people who have come from there has reported or said anything bad about you. But we -[2752.76 --> 2758.60] wanted to hear what your views are, for we know that people everywhere are talking against this sect. -[2759.88 --> 2765.96] They arranged to meet Paul on a certain day and came in even larger numbers to the place where he -[2765.96 --> 2772.02] was staying. He witnessed to them from morning till evening, explaining about the kingdom of God and -[2772.02 --> 2778.54] from the law of Moses and from the prophets. He tried to persuade them about Jesus. Some were convinced -[2778.54 --> 2784.44] by what he said, but others would not believe. They disagreed among themselves and began to leave -[2784.44 --> 2791.90] Paul, leave after Paul had made this final statement. The Holy Spirit spoke the truth to your ancestors when -[2791.90 --> 2799.18] he said through Isaiah the prophet, go to this people and say, you will be ever hearing, but never -[2799.18 --> 2805.54] understanding. You will be ever seeing, but never perceiving. For this people's heart has become -[2805.54 --> 2812.12] calloused. They hardly hear with their ears and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see -[2812.12 --> 2817.96] with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn and I would heal them. -[2819.22 --> 2826.22] Therefore, I want you to know that God's salvation has been sent to the Gentiles and they will listen. -[2826.22 --> 2832.62] For two whole years, Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. -[2833.14 --> 2839.28] He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness -[2839.28 --> 2842.58] and without hindrance. This is the word of the Lord. -[2848.00 --> 2856.10] And so like I said, this morning we're going to lean into the storytelling side of this series. -[2856.96 --> 2862.96] But I want to do that with a purpose because Luke tells this story with a purpose and so we're going to do the same. -[2863.34 --> 2871.86] And my hope is that as we hear this story, what we will begin to see is the telling and the participating -[2871.86 --> 2879.00] and the viewing of the unstoppable spread of the gospel despite obstacles. -[2879.00 --> 2886.30] And that this happens right in the heart of the empire because of the mission of God and for his church. -[2887.36 --> 2894.02] The unstoppable spread of the gospel despite obstacles because this is the mission of God and of his church. -[2894.02 --> 2901.62] And part of what we read when we started was began with that little phrase, after three months. -[2902.36 --> 2907.32] And so we know that we're picking up in the larger narrative here. -[2907.32 --> 2912.90] And like we said, I want to lean back and come back into that larger narrative. -[2914.36 --> 2919.00] So if you have a Bible, you can flip back and we'll follow along. -[2919.00 --> 2928.12] Back in chapter 21, Paul has arrived in Jerusalem after his third missionary journey. -[2928.12 --> 2937.46] And while he is back in Jerusalem, a group of Jewish men from Asia to the north saw Paul at the temple. -[2938.52 --> 2941.88] And in seeing him and in recognizing him from his missionary journeys, -[2942.22 --> 2945.58] they stir up the crowds in Jerusalem against him, -[2945.58 --> 2949.86] saying that Paul has been teaching against the Jews, -[2949.94 --> 2953.66] been teaching against their ancestors, against the law and the prophets. -[2954.08 --> 2955.78] He's been teaching against the temple. -[2955.78 --> 2960.58] And they accuse him actually of bringing Greeks into the temple, -[2960.82 --> 2963.42] which was a faux pas, was not allowed to happen. -[2964.82 --> 2971.18] And because of that, the crowd gets all worked up and they go to grab him and to kill him. -[2971.18 --> 2976.32] Now this is Roman-controlled and occupied Jerusalem. -[2976.74 --> 2986.28] And so this frenzy reaches the commander of the Roman garrison that is stationed there and hears about it. -[2986.64 --> 2990.48] And so he goes and intervenes and has Paul arrested. -[2991.90 --> 2999.46] And he asks them and the crowds what had been done that this man, Paul, deserves death. -[2999.46 --> 3002.12] And he couldn't get a straight answer from them. -[3002.64 --> 3009.62] Now in part because, as you read it, the crowd was so raucous and loud that he couldn't make sense of what was going on. -[3010.50 --> 3015.90] The commander ends up taking Paul back to the barracks to be beaten and interrogated. -[3016.80 --> 3019.34] Now when there, Paul asks him, -[3020.12 --> 3025.62] Can you do this to a Roman citizen without a trial to find him guilty? -[3025.62 --> 3030.84] And when the commander hears that, he has no small amount of panic. -[3032.68 --> 3034.72] Let me zoom out a little bit further. -[3035.78 --> 3042.08] In the second century BC, so 250 years or so before this takes place, -[3042.60 --> 3047.24] the Roman Republic established what's known as the Porcian laws. -[3047.24 --> 3051.32] Now these laws give all citizens of Rome, -[3051.32 --> 3059.00] and now remember that's usually rooted in the male head of family and anyone related to him, -[3059.38 --> 3063.82] but they give all citizens of Rome, including those who live in the provinces, -[3064.64 --> 3068.52] the right of provocatio in Latin. -[3068.52 --> 3074.08] Now this right means the right to appeal to a higher governing authority -[3074.08 --> 3084.76] and the right to not experience sort of abusive or barbaric forms of punishment or coercion. -[3085.18 --> 3088.20] That is, they couldn't be beaten or flogged, -[3088.22 --> 3092.96] and they couldn't be crucified without a trial, without a right to defend themselves. -[3092.96 --> 3101.20] And this idea of the Porcian law becomes so rooted in Roman identity -[3101.20 --> 3109.10] that it is a mark of pride for the people of Rome to establish this and to talk about this. -[3109.18 --> 3112.64] In fact, at the end of the first century, -[3113.20 --> 3119.80] Cicero, who's a well-known statesman, a philosopher, and a lawyer, -[3119.80 --> 3125.84] he writes and records in his book called In Verum, -[3125.96 --> 3127.44] which means against Verus. -[3127.56 --> 3129.82] Verus was the governor in Sicily at the time. -[3131.04 --> 3136.06] In his recording of Verus' trial, he says this, he makes this speech. -[3136.16 --> 3136.56] He goes, -[3136.56 --> 3140.52] Does freedom, that precious thing, mean nothing? -[3141.38 --> 3146.58] Nor the proud privileges of a Roman citizen, nor the Porcian law? -[3146.58 --> 3150.72] Have these come to mean so little in Sicily? -[3152.42 --> 3158.90] Right, this is the proud tradition behind what Paul is appealing to in our story. -[3159.94 --> 3162.92] Because of that, the Roman commander stops, -[3163.72 --> 3167.26] and the next day he takes Paul back to the Sanhedrin, -[3168.12 --> 3172.20] and they try to sort out all of what's going on. -[3172.88 --> 3174.98] Now again, that doesn't go well, -[3174.98 --> 3178.26] and the commander has to return Paul to the barracks. -[3179.76 --> 3182.44] And while Paul is back in the barracks, -[3182.52 --> 3184.68] this time Jesus appears to him. -[3185.68 --> 3187.48] Now remember, Jesus has ascended, -[3188.02 --> 3190.60] and so Paul is having a vision of Jesus, -[3190.60 --> 3194.42] and Jesus speaks to him in Acts 23, verse 11, -[3194.52 --> 3194.96] and he says, -[3195.34 --> 3196.02] Take courage. -[3196.88 --> 3199.34] As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, -[3199.80 --> 3203.00] so you must also testify in Rome. -[3203.00 --> 3206.98] Now it's here that I want to just pause for a minute in the story. -[3208.38 --> 3210.16] Right, when Jesus says to Paul, -[3210.74 --> 3211.78] You will testify, -[3212.60 --> 3216.12] he's using the same Greek root word -[3216.12 --> 3219.92] as when Jesus said to the disciples at the beginning of the book of Acts, -[3220.32 --> 3223.52] You will be my witnesses in Judea and Samaria, -[3223.78 --> 3225.04] and to the ends of the earth. -[3225.60 --> 3229.20] Right, the word witnesses and testify share a root. -[3229.20 --> 3235.42] And so there's a direct tie between the apostolic mission of the disciples to be witnesses -[3235.42 --> 3239.22] and the apostolic mission of Paul as a witness. -[3240.24 --> 3242.34] And all of this, right, -[3242.42 --> 3247.34] is a fulfillment of a promise that God made long before. -[3248.22 --> 3249.04] Because you see, -[3249.40 --> 3250.94] behind the words of Jesus -[3250.94 --> 3254.14] about being witnesses and testifying -[3254.14 --> 3256.88] are the words of Isaiah 43. -[3258.12 --> 3261.20] Isaiah 43, verse 8 through 12, -[3261.32 --> 3262.46] says this. -[3262.52 --> 3263.40] I think we have it on the screen. -[3263.54 --> 3263.64] Yep. -[3265.52 --> 3268.96] Lead out those who have eyes but are blind, -[3269.38 --> 3270.90] who have ears but are deaf. -[3271.72 --> 3273.52] All the nations gather together -[3273.52 --> 3274.56] and the peoples assemble, -[3275.08 --> 3277.68] which of their gods foretold this -[3277.68 --> 3279.80] and proclaimed to us the former things? -[3279.80 --> 3284.28] Let them bring in their witnesses to prove if they were right, -[3284.40 --> 3286.68] so that others may hear and say it is true. -[3287.98 --> 3291.28] You are my witnesses, declares the Lord, -[3291.34 --> 3293.28] and my servant whom I have chosen, -[3293.64 --> 3295.72] so that you may know and believe me -[3295.72 --> 3298.08] and understand that I am he. -[3298.84 --> 3300.80] Before me no God was formed, -[3300.90 --> 3302.40] nor will there be one after me. -[3302.74 --> 3304.76] I, even I, am the Lord, -[3304.84 --> 3306.70] and apart from me there is no Savior. -[3307.04 --> 3309.34] I have revealed and saved and proclaimed. -[3309.78 --> 3312.06] I am not some foreign God among you. -[3312.18 --> 3314.80] You are my witnesses, declares the Lord, -[3315.06 --> 3317.40] that I am God. -[3318.98 --> 3320.50] Now notice what Isaiah is doing here -[3320.50 --> 3323.16] and what God is doing through the prophet in this moment. -[3323.24 --> 3326.16] He's setting up a courtroom drama, as it were. -[3327.08 --> 3328.24] And he's saying, effectively, -[3328.68 --> 3330.42] which of the gods of the other nations -[3330.42 --> 3331.46] could let this happen? -[3331.76 --> 3333.94] Which of the gods of other nations could intervene? -[3334.52 --> 3334.66] Right? -[3334.66 --> 3336.70] Tell those other gods to bring in their witnesses -[3336.70 --> 3338.10] so that they can prove them right. -[3339.34 --> 3341.34] Which of course, they don't do. -[3342.58 --> 3344.72] Instead, the Lord says, -[3345.22 --> 3347.92] you are my witnesses. -[3349.16 --> 3352.26] You will give testimony that I am right. -[3353.12 --> 3354.44] You will give testimony -[3354.44 --> 3356.58] that what I have promised has come to pass. -[3356.98 --> 3358.06] You will be a witness -[3358.06 --> 3361.48] that those with blind eyes had them opened. -[3361.68 --> 3362.50] You will be a witness -[3362.50 --> 3364.24] that those with deaf ears -[3364.24 --> 3365.72] have had them unstopped -[3365.72 --> 3366.64] and they're able to hear. -[3366.90 --> 3368.02] And he finishes by saying, -[3368.30 --> 3370.06] you will be my witnesses -[3370.06 --> 3372.76] that I am God. -[3374.36 --> 3375.62] Paul's testifying, -[3375.80 --> 3377.26] the disciples witnessing -[3377.26 --> 3378.90] is to say, -[3379.18 --> 3381.68] Jesus is God. -[3382.48 --> 3384.18] Jesus is the Christ, -[3384.38 --> 3385.10] the Messiah, -[3385.28 --> 3386.26] the Son of Man, -[3386.32 --> 3388.26] and the Savior of nations. -[3388.26 --> 3388.36] God's mission to the nations. -[3388.82 --> 3390.56] God's mission to the world -[3390.56 --> 3392.80] is for him to say to the nations, -[3392.94 --> 3393.68] here I am. -[3395.54 --> 3396.58] Here I am. -[3397.86 --> 3399.28] And in the same way, -[3399.62 --> 3401.82] the church's mission to the world -[3401.82 --> 3405.22] is to say that he is God. -[3405.66 --> 3407.94] That Jesus is God. -[3407.94 --> 3407.98] God. -[3410.54 --> 3411.02] Recently, -[3411.18 --> 3413.12] I was listening to a podcast -[3413.12 --> 3415.00] by Christopher Wright. -[3415.80 --> 3417.26] He's a missiologist -[3417.26 --> 3420.56] who really roots his understanding -[3420.56 --> 3421.76] of the mission of the church -[3421.76 --> 3424.18] and the grand story of God's mission -[3424.18 --> 3425.84] as the primary way -[3425.84 --> 3426.86] to understand the Bible -[3426.86 --> 3428.14] and the work of God in the world. -[3428.92 --> 3429.80] In the podcast, -[3430.46 --> 3432.64] he mentions that the way -[3432.64 --> 3435.80] most of us read the Bible -[3435.80 --> 3437.68] is to read -[3437.68 --> 3439.28] and then to ask the question, -[3439.64 --> 3441.42] how does this apply to my life? -[3442.76 --> 3443.00] Now, -[3443.42 --> 3444.76] this isn't a bad question -[3444.76 --> 3446.40] and this isn't a bad way -[3446.40 --> 3447.42] in and of itself -[3447.42 --> 3448.70] to read the Bible, -[3448.70 --> 3450.40] but it does have the tendency -[3450.40 --> 3453.86] to be sort of a self-focused way -[3453.86 --> 3454.62] to read the Bible. -[3455.40 --> 3455.60] Right? -[3455.64 --> 3457.14] This sort of makes it about you -[3457.14 --> 3458.70] and then whatever the Bible says -[3458.70 --> 3460.38] is sort of tangential to you -[3460.38 --> 3461.46] and then you've got to figure out -[3461.46 --> 3462.46] how to incorporate it. -[3463.90 --> 3464.32] Right? -[3464.32 --> 3466.02] It ends with the kind of question -[3466.02 --> 3467.60] of what should I be doing? -[3468.48 --> 3468.84] Now, again, -[3469.00 --> 3470.92] that's not a bad question, -[3471.64 --> 3473.70] but there's also, I think, -[3474.06 --> 3476.48] perhaps a more profound way -[3476.48 --> 3478.06] to read the Bible. -[3478.86 --> 3478.92] Right? -[3478.94 --> 3481.32] Instead of asking the question, -[3481.66 --> 3484.06] how do I apply this story to my life? -[3485.30 --> 3486.62] We can ask the question, -[3487.16 --> 3488.96] how do I apply my life -[3488.96 --> 3490.62] to this story? -[3490.62 --> 3493.10] Right? -[3493.18 --> 3494.80] Right says that it's not so much -[3494.80 --> 3496.08] about application -[3496.08 --> 3498.46] as it is about implication. -[3500.04 --> 3500.20] Right? -[3500.24 --> 3503.00] How am I implicated in this narrative -[3503.00 --> 3504.40] which is God's story? -[3504.92 --> 3506.80] Where does my life fit -[3506.80 --> 3508.80] in my little piece of time -[3508.80 --> 3510.18] on this ball of rock -[3510.18 --> 3511.20] hurtling through space? -[3511.40 --> 3513.62] Where does my life fit -[3513.62 --> 3514.82] in that story? -[3514.82 --> 3517.38] And one of the implications -[3517.38 --> 3518.86] of this story -[3518.86 --> 3520.82] is that we join -[3520.82 --> 3522.38] in God's mission -[3522.38 --> 3523.86] to witness to Him. -[3524.50 --> 3524.74] Right? -[3524.80 --> 3526.22] We join in God's mission -[3526.22 --> 3528.60] to witness to His own glory. -[3528.60 --> 3530.26] We join in God's mission -[3530.26 --> 3531.46] to have all creation -[3531.46 --> 3532.32] joined together -[3532.32 --> 3533.68] in worship of Him. -[3533.92 --> 3535.64] We join as witnesses -[3535.64 --> 3537.00] to say, -[3537.26 --> 3538.92] Jesus is God. -[3538.92 --> 3543.06] In joining God's mission then, -[3543.42 --> 3544.86] we all of a sudden -[3544.86 --> 3547.00] find in our lives -[3547.00 --> 3548.84] meaning and significance -[3548.84 --> 3549.84] and purpose -[3549.84 --> 3551.88] because we found ourselves -[3551.88 --> 3553.64] rooted in the story -[3553.64 --> 3554.66] of God's mission -[3554.66 --> 3556.36] throughout all of time -[3556.36 --> 3557.22] and space. -[3557.34 --> 3558.56] We find ourselves part -[3558.56 --> 3560.48] of this bigger story, -[3560.62 --> 3561.70] bigger than we could ever -[3561.70 --> 3562.68] have imagined, -[3562.90 --> 3564.70] one that has been being written -[3564.70 --> 3566.02] since before even -[3566.02 --> 3567.06] the very creation -[3567.06 --> 3568.10] of the world. -[3568.10 --> 3569.98] That's the implication -[3569.98 --> 3572.08] of joining God -[3572.08 --> 3573.40] as a witness -[3573.40 --> 3575.22] that you have -[3575.22 --> 3576.16] a global, -[3576.76 --> 3578.42] eternal purpose. -[3579.78 --> 3581.28] And that's for you. -[3583.88 --> 3585.08] That's part of why -[3585.08 --> 3585.88] we root ourselves -[3585.88 --> 3587.76] in this story. -[3591.06 --> 3592.82] The story continues. -[3593.20 --> 3593.84] Right in the story, -[3593.96 --> 3594.86] Paul is transferred -[3594.86 --> 3596.22] to Caesarea -[3596.22 --> 3598.10] for trial under Felix. -[3598.84 --> 3601.02] Felix is a Roman governor. -[3601.84 --> 3602.84] And we know a fair bit -[3602.84 --> 3603.58] about Felix -[3603.58 --> 3604.64] from other sources. -[3605.28 --> 3605.92] For instance, -[3606.04 --> 3606.90] we know that he -[3606.90 --> 3608.12] treated his subjects -[3608.12 --> 3609.06] with disdain. -[3609.54 --> 3610.32] We know that he was -[3610.32 --> 3611.04] often brutal -[3611.04 --> 3612.76] and violent with them. -[3613.06 --> 3614.10] So much so -[3614.10 --> 3615.28] that Rome actually -[3615.28 --> 3616.42] recalled him -[3616.42 --> 3617.92] back to Rome -[3617.92 --> 3618.74] from his post -[3618.74 --> 3619.74] in AD 59 -[3619.74 --> 3622.06] because of constant complaints -[3622.06 --> 3623.18] that the people -[3623.18 --> 3623.72] under him, -[3623.78 --> 3624.32] his subjects, -[3624.44 --> 3625.12] the Jewish people, -[3625.12 --> 3625.44] made. -[3626.30 --> 3627.16] And that means -[3627.16 --> 3628.08] it must have been -[3628.08 --> 3628.80] pretty harsh. -[3629.30 --> 3629.88] It must have been -[3629.88 --> 3630.48] pretty bad -[3630.48 --> 3631.84] for even the Romans -[3631.84 --> 3632.28] to go, -[3632.48 --> 3633.54] that's a bridge -[3633.54 --> 3634.18] too far, -[3634.62 --> 3634.84] Felix. -[3636.48 --> 3637.66] We know also -[3637.66 --> 3638.56] that he was corrupt. -[3639.34 --> 3640.22] Luke even tells us -[3640.22 --> 3640.84] that the reason -[3640.84 --> 3642.00] he kept Paul -[3642.00 --> 3642.88] for two years -[3642.88 --> 3643.38] in prison -[3643.38 --> 3644.08] is because he was -[3644.08 --> 3644.84] hoping that Paul -[3644.84 --> 3645.30] would give him -[3645.30 --> 3645.80] a bribe. -[3645.80 --> 3648.50] So for two years -[3648.50 --> 3649.60] Felix kept him -[3649.60 --> 3651.00] until Felix -[3651.00 --> 3651.70] is recalled -[3651.70 --> 3653.24] and he's replaced -[3653.24 --> 3654.14] by Festus, -[3654.70 --> 3655.58] another governor. -[3656.32 --> 3656.88] Now the Jews -[3656.88 --> 3658.04] conspire with Festus -[3658.04 --> 3658.84] to transfer Paul -[3658.84 --> 3659.68] back to Jerusalem -[3659.68 --> 3661.08] because they have -[3661.08 --> 3662.32] a plot to kill him -[3662.32 --> 3663.34] while on the way. -[3664.10 --> 3665.12] And it's at this point -[3665.12 --> 3666.06] that Paul again -[3666.06 --> 3667.78] appeals to Caesar. -[3668.82 --> 3669.76] Caesar is the title -[3669.76 --> 3670.30] of the emperor -[3670.30 --> 3670.80] in Rome. -[3671.04 --> 3671.70] At this time -[3671.70 --> 3672.48] it would have been Nero. -[3672.48 --> 3674.32] because of Paul's -[3674.32 --> 3674.84] citizenship, -[3675.44 --> 3676.78] Festus has no choice -[3676.78 --> 3677.82] but to agree. -[3678.14 --> 3678.64] And he says -[3678.64 --> 3679.40] in Acts 25, -[3679.68 --> 3680.42] you have appealed -[3680.42 --> 3681.02] to Caesar, -[3681.60 --> 3682.70] to Caesar you will go. -[3684.68 --> 3685.36] And so while he's -[3685.36 --> 3686.16] waiting to go -[3686.16 --> 3687.16] before he can go -[3687.16 --> 3687.96] to Caesar, -[3688.22 --> 3689.30] Festus invites -[3689.30 --> 3690.26] King Agrippa. -[3691.12 --> 3693.26] This is Agrippa II -[3693.26 --> 3694.46] who's the great -[3694.46 --> 3696.14] grandson of Herod the Great. -[3696.28 --> 3697.40] If you know -[3697.40 --> 3698.00] the story -[3698.00 --> 3698.82] of the birth -[3698.82 --> 3699.38] of Jesus, -[3699.56 --> 3700.28] Herod the Great -[3700.28 --> 3701.02] is the one -[3701.02 --> 3701.64] who was ruling -[3701.64 --> 3702.20] at the time -[3702.20 --> 3703.36] of Jesus' birth. -[3704.22 --> 3704.98] Agrippa II -[3704.98 --> 3706.28] was only a boy -[3706.28 --> 3707.24] when his father, -[3707.48 --> 3708.74] Agrippa I, -[3709.26 --> 3709.88] died. -[3710.50 --> 3712.04] And so because of that -[3712.04 --> 3713.20] the Romans divided -[3713.20 --> 3714.58] his rule -[3714.58 --> 3715.80] up under these governors. -[3715.98 --> 3716.58] That's why we have -[3716.58 --> 3717.54] Felix and Festus -[3717.54 --> 3718.24] in this story. -[3718.82 --> 3720.56] But as Agrippa grew older -[3720.56 --> 3721.76] he managed to get -[3721.76 --> 3722.62] more and more -[3722.62 --> 3724.18] rule and authority -[3724.18 --> 3725.98] back from Rome -[3725.98 --> 3727.72] though never Judea proper, -[3728.24 --> 3729.68] rather regions to the north. -[3730.34 --> 3731.50] But he does manage -[3731.50 --> 3732.72] this place of influence -[3732.72 --> 3733.58] with them. -[3734.92 --> 3735.56] Now Paul -[3735.56 --> 3736.42] is given a chance -[3736.42 --> 3737.00] to preach -[3737.00 --> 3737.76] to Festus -[3737.76 --> 3738.60] and to Agrippa -[3738.60 --> 3740.04] and Bernice. -[3740.22 --> 3741.36] Bernice is Agrippa's -[3741.36 --> 3741.92] sister -[3741.92 --> 3743.66] and also -[3743.66 --> 3744.78] his rumored -[3744.78 --> 3745.50] consort. -[3747.28 --> 3748.54] But Paul preaches -[3748.54 --> 3749.54] to this group -[3749.54 --> 3750.48] along with a number -[3750.48 --> 3751.24] of other leaders -[3751.24 --> 3752.62] from the Sanhedrin. -[3753.36 --> 3754.00] Now honestly -[3754.00 --> 3755.96] these chapters -[3755.96 --> 3757.28] from 23 to 27 -[3757.28 --> 3758.68] are an amazing read -[3758.68 --> 3759.66] and if you're looking -[3759.66 --> 3760.48] for some devotional -[3760.48 --> 3761.22] reading for this week -[3761.22 --> 3761.84] I encourage you -[3761.84 --> 3762.84] to dig into this -[3762.84 --> 3763.58] and to go here. -[3765.14 --> 3766.06] Because Paul preaches -[3766.06 --> 3767.84] these really moving sermons -[3767.84 --> 3769.10] and at the end -[3769.10 --> 3769.84] of preaching -[3769.84 --> 3770.70] to this group -[3770.70 --> 3771.76] that includes Agrippa -[3771.76 --> 3773.46] Agrippa stands up -[3773.46 --> 3773.86] and he says -[3773.86 --> 3774.86] do you think -[3774.86 --> 3776.22] that in such a short time -[3776.22 --> 3777.80] you can persuade me -[3777.80 --> 3778.56] to be a Christian? -[3779.36 --> 3780.48] To which Paul -[3780.48 --> 3781.64] gives this really -[3781.64 --> 3782.62] awesome -[3782.62 --> 3784.10] baller answer. -[3784.66 --> 3785.08] He says -[3785.08 --> 3785.98] short time -[3785.98 --> 3786.42] are long -[3786.42 --> 3787.76] I pray that -[3787.76 --> 3788.48] not only you -[3788.48 --> 3790.00] but all who are -[3790.00 --> 3791.04] listening to me today -[3791.04 --> 3792.28] become what I am -[3792.28 --> 3794.08] except for these chains. -[3795.34 --> 3796.56] Now I love this answer -[3796.56 --> 3797.04] and I want us -[3797.04 --> 3798.34] to key in on it -[3798.34 --> 3799.74] because of course -[3799.74 --> 3800.98] Paul wants everyone -[3800.98 --> 3801.84] who hears him -[3801.84 --> 3802.88] to be like him. -[3803.72 --> 3804.70] The truth that he's -[3804.70 --> 3805.20] proclaiming -[3805.20 --> 3806.18] is not only the key -[3806.18 --> 3807.04] to salvation -[3807.04 --> 3808.90] this gospel truth -[3808.90 --> 3810.12] is the key to history. -[3810.94 --> 3811.66] It's the key -[3811.66 --> 3812.56] to making sense -[3812.56 --> 3813.32] of the whole world. -[3813.92 --> 3814.42] It's the key -[3814.42 --> 3815.26] to understanding -[3815.26 --> 3815.88] your place -[3815.88 --> 3816.82] in God's mission. -[3817.66 --> 3818.56] Jesus says -[3818.56 --> 3819.64] that the only way -[3819.64 --> 3820.58] to bear fruit -[3820.58 --> 3821.14] the only way -[3821.14 --> 3821.72] to bear fruit -[3821.72 --> 3822.60] that will last -[3822.60 --> 3823.48] the only way -[3823.48 --> 3824.14] to do something -[3824.14 --> 3824.72] meaningful -[3824.72 --> 3825.80] and purposeful -[3825.80 --> 3826.74] that is with God -[3826.74 --> 3828.02] glorifying ends -[3828.02 --> 3828.82] the only way -[3828.82 --> 3829.24] to do that -[3829.24 --> 3830.16] is to be connected -[3830.16 --> 3830.72] to him -[3830.72 --> 3832.26] to abide in him. -[3833.04 --> 3834.22] There's no other name -[3834.22 --> 3834.78] in heaven -[3834.78 --> 3835.84] or on earth -[3835.84 --> 3836.50] by which man -[3836.50 --> 3837.16] can be saved. -[3837.70 --> 3838.36] No one comes -[3838.36 --> 3838.92] to the Father -[3838.92 --> 3840.44] except by him. -[3841.34 --> 3842.28] It is his life -[3842.28 --> 3843.26] in our place -[3843.26 --> 3843.98] and his death -[3843.98 --> 3844.76] on the cross -[3844.76 --> 3846.28] that reconciles -[3846.28 --> 3846.74] us to God -[3846.74 --> 3847.46] that draws us -[3847.46 --> 3848.66] back to who God -[3848.66 --> 3848.92] is. -[3849.24 --> 3850.32] And being united -[3850.32 --> 3851.06] with Jesus -[3851.06 --> 3851.84] by grace -[3851.84 --> 3852.52] through faith -[3852.52 --> 3853.58] is finally -[3853.58 --> 3854.36] what it means -[3854.36 --> 3856.00] to be fully human -[3856.00 --> 3857.24] fully alive -[3857.24 --> 3857.96] finally -[3857.96 --> 3859.44] and fully alive -[3859.44 --> 3860.10] to the glory -[3860.10 --> 3860.64] of God. -[3861.94 --> 3863.02] Anything less -[3863.02 --> 3863.64] than that -[3863.64 --> 3865.20] isn't just inadequate -[3865.20 --> 3867.62] it's actually -[3867.62 --> 3868.70] inhuman. -[3868.70 --> 3871.94] it's not enough -[3871.94 --> 3875.08] and when we gather -[3875.08 --> 3875.76] here week -[3875.76 --> 3876.36] after week -[3876.36 --> 3876.94] after week -[3876.94 --> 3878.10] it's not out -[3878.10 --> 3878.60] of ritual -[3878.60 --> 3879.26] or custom -[3879.26 --> 3879.88] or at least -[3879.88 --> 3880.70] it's not just -[3880.70 --> 3881.42] out of ritual -[3881.42 --> 3882.52] or just out -[3882.52 --> 3883.00] of custom -[3883.00 --> 3884.26] it's so that -[3884.26 --> 3885.04] we can learn -[3885.04 --> 3885.74] what it really -[3885.74 --> 3886.64] means to be -[3886.64 --> 3887.28] human -[3887.28 --> 3888.92] to find our -[3888.92 --> 3889.38] place -[3889.38 --> 3890.50] in the story -[3890.50 --> 3891.28] as witnesses -[3891.28 --> 3892.68] of God's mission -[3892.68 --> 3894.66] and that -[3894.66 --> 3895.62] to me -[3895.62 --> 3896.72] is a -[3896.72 --> 3897.30] worthwhile -[3897.30 --> 3898.68] purpose. -[3902.20 --> 3903.36] And so we see -[3903.36 --> 3904.14] this gospel -[3904.14 --> 3905.88] story -[3905.88 --> 3907.58] spreading -[3907.58 --> 3910.56] and while -[3910.56 --> 3911.08] Festus -[3911.08 --> 3911.72] and Agrippa -[3911.72 --> 3912.44] may not have -[3912.44 --> 3913.32] professed faith -[3913.32 --> 3914.72] in that moment -[3914.72 --> 3915.98] Agrippa does -[3915.98 --> 3917.14] turn to Festus -[3917.14 --> 3917.88] and he says -[3917.88 --> 3919.16] if he hadn't -[3919.16 --> 3919.96] appealed to Caesar -[3919.96 --> 3921.12] we could have -[3921.12 --> 3921.60] let him free -[3921.60 --> 3923.92] but instead -[3923.92 --> 3925.48] they set sail -[3925.48 --> 3925.94] for Rome. -[3928.00 --> 3929.22] Now in route -[3929.22 --> 3931.06] a major storm -[3931.06 --> 3931.94] comes up -[3931.94 --> 3932.48] while they're -[3932.48 --> 3932.86] sailing -[3932.86 --> 3934.28] Luke describes -[3934.28 --> 3935.36] it in Acts 17 -[3935.36 --> 3936.10] verse 14 -[3936.10 --> 3936.82] as a wind -[3936.82 --> 3937.68] of hurricane -[3937.68 --> 3938.26] force. -[3939.02 --> 3939.54] The word -[3939.54 --> 3940.72] used there -[3940.72 --> 3941.48] is the one -[3941.48 --> 3941.92] that we get -[3941.92 --> 3942.34] the English -[3942.34 --> 3943.22] word typhoon -[3943.22 --> 3943.66] from. -[3944.30 --> 3944.82] So it's a big -[3944.82 --> 3945.12] storm. -[3946.24 --> 3946.62] The ship -[3946.62 --> 3947.34] is wrecked -[3947.34 --> 3948.22] on the island -[3948.22 --> 3949.34] of Malta. -[3950.00 --> 3950.66] Malta is -[3950.66 --> 3951.42] south of -[3951.42 --> 3952.06] Sicily. -[3952.72 --> 3953.64] Sicily is -[3953.64 --> 3954.48] that landmass -[3954.48 --> 3955.10] that the boot -[3955.10 --> 3955.56] of Italy -[3955.56 --> 3956.08] is kicking. -[3956.88 --> 3957.32] So south -[3957.32 --> 3957.78] of that -[3957.78 --> 3958.20] is where -[3958.20 --> 3958.56] the island -[3958.56 --> 3958.96] of Malta -[3958.96 --> 3959.22] is. -[3960.26 --> 3960.74] There -[3960.74 --> 3961.44] Paul -[3961.44 --> 3962.56] is miraculously -[3962.56 --> 3964.82] he miraculously -[3964.82 --> 3965.50] survives -[3965.50 --> 3966.26] a snake bite -[3966.26 --> 3967.72] and the people -[3967.72 --> 3968.30] think that -[3968.30 --> 3968.94] he must be -[3968.94 --> 3969.36] a god. -[3970.14 --> 3970.78] It's the same -[3970.78 --> 3971.38] sort of thing -[3971.38 --> 3971.94] that happened -[3971.94 --> 3972.86] when Paul -[3972.86 --> 3973.58] was in Lystra -[3973.58 --> 3974.76] when people -[3974.76 --> 3975.26] thought he -[3975.26 --> 3975.96] and Barnabas -[3975.96 --> 3976.52] were Hermes -[3976.52 --> 3976.98] and Zeus. -[3977.34 --> 3978.50] Now the chief -[3978.50 --> 3979.38] official of -[3979.38 --> 3980.36] the island -[3980.36 --> 3981.16] the first -[3981.16 --> 3981.60] man -[3981.60 --> 3982.42] the protos -[3982.42 --> 3982.88] it says -[3982.88 --> 3983.36] in Greek -[3983.36 --> 3984.66] which coincidentally -[3984.66 --> 3985.50] is a title -[3985.50 --> 3986.60] that archaeologists -[3986.60 --> 3987.20] have actually -[3987.20 --> 3988.32] found in the -[3988.32 --> 3989.14] historical record -[3989.14 --> 3989.80] on the island -[3989.80 --> 3990.28] of Malta. -[3991.64 --> 3992.64] The chief -[3992.64 --> 3993.70] man invites -[3993.70 --> 3994.38] them into -[3994.38 --> 3994.98] his home -[3994.98 --> 3995.78] and while -[3995.78 --> 3996.44] there his -[3996.44 --> 3997.28] father gets -[3997.28 --> 3998.00] really sick -[3998.00 --> 3999.18] and Paul -[3999.18 --> 3999.96] heals him -[3999.96 --> 4001.24] and so this -[4001.24 --> 4002.08] news spreads -[4002.08 --> 4002.64] throughout the -[4002.64 --> 4003.32] island of Malta -[4003.32 --> 4004.18] that there is -[4004.18 --> 4004.90] a man on -[4004.90 --> 4005.20] the island -[4005.20 --> 4005.70] who heals -[4005.70 --> 4006.18] the sick -[4006.18 --> 4006.52] and so -[4006.52 --> 4007.12] all the -[4007.12 --> 4007.92] islanders -[4007.92 --> 4008.58] bring the -[4008.58 --> 4008.86] sick -[4008.86 --> 4009.80] to Paul -[4009.80 --> 4010.28] and they're -[4010.28 --> 4010.64] cured. -[4011.84 --> 4012.04] In fact -[4012.04 --> 4012.52] tradition -[4012.52 --> 4013.10] goes on -[4013.10 --> 4013.54] to say -[4013.54 --> 4014.36] that the -[4014.36 --> 4014.92] protos -[4014.92 --> 4015.46] this first -[4015.46 --> 4015.74] man -[4015.74 --> 4016.18] this leading -[4016.18 --> 4016.60] official -[4016.60 --> 4017.44] becomes -[4017.44 --> 4018.02] the first -[4018.02 --> 4018.44] bishop -[4018.44 --> 4019.06] of Malta. -[4020.72 --> 4021.76] Many believed -[4021.76 --> 4022.48] and were added -[4022.48 --> 4022.84] to their -[4022.84 --> 4023.18] number. -[4024.86 --> 4025.12] And again -[4025.12 --> 4025.52] in fact -[4025.52 --> 4026.24] archaeologists -[4026.24 --> 4026.94] have found -[4026.94 --> 4027.98] very early -[4027.98 --> 4028.46] Christian -[4028.46 --> 4029.16] presence -[4029.16 --> 4030.02] on the -[4030.02 --> 4030.58] island of Malta -[4030.58 --> 4030.96] in the -[4030.96 --> 4031.70] catacombs -[4031.70 --> 4031.98] that are -[4031.98 --> 4032.28] underneath -[4035.70 --> 4035.74] Rome -[4035.74 --> 4036.46] and in -[4036.46 --> 4036.80] Sicily. -[4038.50 --> 4039.10] And so -[4039.10 --> 4039.42] they're there -[4039.42 --> 4039.80] for three -[4039.80 --> 4040.06] months -[4040.06 --> 4040.80] and finally -[4040.80 --> 4041.90] after three -[4041.90 --> 4042.28] months -[4042.28 --> 4043.96] that's after -[4043.96 --> 4044.34] the winter -[4044.34 --> 4044.94] storms -[4044.94 --> 4046.06] they set -[4046.06 --> 4046.40] sail -[4046.40 --> 4048.26] which gets -[4048.26 --> 4048.64] us caught -[4048.64 --> 4049.08] up to -[4049.08 --> 4050.12] our portion -[4050.12 --> 4050.40] of the -[4050.40 --> 4050.74] story -[4050.74 --> 4051.24] the part -[4051.24 --> 4051.48] that we -[4051.48 --> 4051.74] read. -[4052.62 --> 4053.06] And that -[4053.06 --> 4053.78] first part -[4053.78 --> 4054.12] that we -[4054.12 --> 4054.42] read -[4054.42 --> 4054.80] in verses -[4054.80 --> 4055.26] 11 to -[4055.26 --> 4055.62] 15 -[4055.62 --> 4056.16] reads -[4056.16 --> 4056.72] kind of -[4056.72 --> 4057.08] like a -[4057.08 --> 4057.42] travel -[4057.42 --> 4057.78] journal -[4057.78 --> 4058.36] right -[4058.36 --> 4059.06] with Luke -[4059.06 --> 4059.46] giving -[4059.46 --> 4060.44] very particular -[4060.44 --> 4061.60] details. -[4062.22 --> 4063.06] But again -[4063.06 --> 4063.60] if we -[4063.60 --> 4064.10] have the -[4064.10 --> 4064.52] ears to -[4064.52 --> 4064.72] hear -[4064.72 --> 4065.46] we've seen -[4065.46 --> 4066.80] Luke doing -[4066.80 --> 4067.62] this throughout. -[4068.64 --> 4069.36] Luke is a -[4069.36 --> 4070.00] doctor by -[4070.00 --> 4070.56] profession -[4070.56 --> 4071.66] but he is -[4071.66 --> 4072.64] a historian -[4072.64 --> 4073.68] for the -[4073.68 --> 4074.16] mission of -[4074.16 --> 4074.46] God. -[4075.44 --> 4075.78] And his -[4075.78 --> 4076.42] point here -[4076.42 --> 4077.10] is to be -[4077.10 --> 4077.50] writing -[4077.50 --> 4078.44] history. -[4079.36 --> 4079.68] Now of -[4079.68 --> 4080.10] course he -[4080.10 --> 4080.80] writes history -[4080.80 --> 4081.68] with a -[4081.68 --> 4082.06] preaching -[4082.06 --> 4082.66] purpose. -[4082.80 --> 4083.20] That is he's -[4083.20 --> 4083.76] telling the -[4083.76 --> 4084.68] story because -[4084.68 --> 4085.14] he wants -[4085.14 --> 4085.62] people to -[4085.62 --> 4086.10] know the -[4086.10 --> 4086.86] truth of -[4086.86 --> 4087.34] the gospel. -[4088.74 --> 4089.06] And in -[4089.06 --> 4090.02] fact in -[4090.02 --> 4090.50] the opening -[4090.50 --> 4091.06] of the -[4091.06 --> 4091.66] gospel of -[4091.66 --> 4092.10] Luke he -[4092.10 --> 4092.62] gives this -[4092.62 --> 4093.02] purpose -[4093.02 --> 4093.72] explicitly. -[4093.88 --> 4094.18] He says -[4094.18 --> 4094.60] in Luke -[4094.60 --> 4094.92] 1 -[4094.92 --> 4096.10] I have -[4096.10 --> 4096.80] decided to -[4096.80 --> 4097.22] write an -[4097.22 --> 4097.66] orderly -[4097.66 --> 4098.34] account for -[4098.34 --> 4099.42] you so -[4099.42 --> 4099.98] that you -[4099.98 --> 4100.64] may know -[4100.64 --> 4101.52] the certainty -[4101.52 --> 4102.32] of the -[4102.32 --> 4102.98] things you -[4102.98 --> 4103.58] have been -[4103.58 --> 4104.06] taught. -[4105.50 --> 4106.66] This story -[4106.66 --> 4107.50] is told -[4107.50 --> 4109.48] and given -[4109.48 --> 4110.30] to us -[4110.30 --> 4111.52] so that -[4111.52 --> 4112.34] you can -[4112.34 --> 4112.94] know the -[4112.94 --> 4113.32] truth. -[4114.16 --> 4114.36] And so -[4114.36 --> 4114.62] that you -[4114.62 --> 4114.94] can not -[4114.94 --> 4115.70] just know -[4115.70 --> 4116.38] it but -[4116.38 --> 4116.70] so that -[4116.70 --> 4116.96] it can -[4116.96 --> 4117.74] be certain -[4117.74 --> 4118.74] for you. -[4118.96 --> 4119.36] So that -[4119.36 --> 4119.76] you can -[4119.76 --> 4120.20] know that -[4120.20 --> 4120.84] your faith -[4120.84 --> 4121.50] isn't just -[4121.50 --> 4122.06] built on -[4122.06 --> 4123.02] myths but -[4123.02 --> 4123.32] on the -[4123.32 --> 4124.32] testimony of -[4124.32 --> 4124.92] tested -[4124.92 --> 4125.72] witnesses. -[4127.50 --> 4128.80] This is -[4128.80 --> 4129.82] what God's -[4129.82 --> 4131.02] word becomes -[4131.02 --> 4132.14] for us. -[4132.44 --> 4133.24] The testimony -[4133.24 --> 4134.24] of tested -[4134.24 --> 4135.50] witnesses and -[4135.50 --> 4136.50] the firm -[4136.50 --> 4138.04] foundation of -[4138.04 --> 4139.42] our faith, -[4139.50 --> 4139.96] of the -[4139.96 --> 4140.82] things that -[4140.82 --> 4141.58] we profess -[4141.58 --> 4142.76] to believe. -[4144.76 --> 4145.94] In this -[4145.94 --> 4146.62] series we've -[4146.62 --> 4146.96] been holding -[4146.96 --> 4147.62] up stories -[4147.62 --> 4148.50] from the -[4148.50 --> 4149.40] early church. -[4149.40 --> 4150.22] Jerome -[4150.22 --> 4151.06] at the -[4151.06 --> 4151.38] end of -[4151.38 --> 4151.52] the -[4151.52 --> 4151.80] fourth -[4151.80 --> 4152.58] century. -[4153.64 --> 4154.02] Jerome -[4154.02 --> 4154.58] is most -[4154.58 --> 4155.56] known for -[4155.56 --> 4156.24] translating -[4156.24 --> 4157.72] the Bible -[4157.72 --> 4158.44] into -[4158.44 --> 4159.08] Latin, -[4159.30 --> 4159.82] into what -[4159.82 --> 4160.14] we call -[4160.14 --> 4160.90] the Vulgate -[4160.90 --> 4161.44] as a way -[4161.44 --> 4161.84] of spreading -[4161.84 --> 4162.34] it around -[4162.34 --> 4163.44] the empire. -[4164.32 --> 4164.98] He writes -[4164.98 --> 4165.96] in his -[4165.96 --> 4166.86] preface to -[4166.86 --> 4167.58] the commentary -[4167.58 --> 4168.62] on Isaiah -[4168.62 --> 4169.22] he says -[4169.22 --> 4170.36] for if -[4170.36 --> 4171.12] according to -[4171.12 --> 4171.62] the apostle -[4171.62 --> 4172.08] Paul -[4172.08 --> 4172.72] Christ is -[4172.72 --> 4173.20] the power -[4173.20 --> 4173.74] of God -[4173.74 --> 4174.02] and the -[4174.02 --> 4174.30] wisdom -[4174.30 --> 4174.82] of God -[4174.82 --> 4175.20] and that's -[4175.20 --> 4175.46] from -[4175.46 --> 4175.72] first -[4175.72 --> 4176.14] Corinthians -[4176.14 --> 4177.68] and the -[4177.68 --> 4178.14] one who -[4178.14 --> 4178.62] does not -[4178.62 --> 4178.98] know the -[4178.98 --> 4179.30] scriptures -[4179.30 --> 4179.86] does not -[4179.86 --> 4180.20] know the -[4180.20 --> 4180.84] power of -[4180.84 --> 4181.40] God and -[4181.40 --> 4182.02] his wisdom -[4182.02 --> 4183.06] then -[4183.06 --> 4183.82] ignorance -[4183.82 --> 4184.44] of the -[4184.44 --> 4184.86] scriptures -[4184.86 --> 4185.74] is -[4185.74 --> 4186.26] ignorance -[4186.26 --> 4187.22] of -[4187.22 --> 4188.20] Christ. -[4191.26 --> 4192.16] This -[4192.16 --> 4192.64] word -[4192.64 --> 4194.86] God's -[4194.86 --> 4195.20] word -[4195.20 --> 4196.96] is -[4196.96 --> 4198.02] a firm -[4198.02 --> 4198.82] foundation -[4198.82 --> 4200.24] for your -[4200.24 --> 4200.76] faith -[4200.76 --> 4201.86] because -[4201.86 --> 4202.94] this is -[4202.94 --> 4203.74] the revelation -[4203.74 --> 4204.64] of God -[4204.64 --> 4205.56] for his -[4205.56 --> 4205.92] people. -[4205.92 --> 4206.24] It is -[4206.24 --> 4206.94] here -[4206.94 --> 4208.28] in the -[4208.28 --> 4208.72] beginning -[4208.72 --> 4209.82] and -[4209.82 --> 4211.32] throughout -[4211.32 --> 4212.80] that we -[4212.80 --> 4213.18] meet -[4213.18 --> 4214.44] Jesus. -[4216.24 --> 4216.74] Finding -[4216.74 --> 4217.68] your place -[4217.68 --> 4218.82] in this -[4218.82 --> 4219.52] story -[4219.52 --> 4220.38] is finding -[4220.38 --> 4221.18] your place -[4221.18 --> 4221.54] in the -[4221.54 --> 4221.80] mission -[4221.80 --> 4222.44] of God -[4222.44 --> 4223.58] as his -[4223.58 --> 4224.28] witness -[4224.28 --> 4224.76] and as -[4224.76 --> 4225.08] witness -[4225.08 --> 4225.56] to the -[4225.56 --> 4225.90] truth -[4225.90 --> 4226.90] of this -[4226.90 --> 4227.74] story -[4227.74 --> 4228.20] and that -[4228.20 --> 4228.82] I think -[4228.82 --> 4229.24] is the -[4229.24 --> 4229.92] beautiful -[4229.92 --> 4230.64] interchange -[4230.64 --> 4231.24] between -[4231.24 --> 4231.46] the -[4231.46 --> 4231.84] biblical -[4231.84 --> 4232.72] witness -[4232.72 --> 4233.80] and you -[4233.80 --> 4234.24] as -[4234.24 --> 4234.90] witness -[4234.90 --> 4235.18] right -[4235.18 --> 4235.58] you -[4235.58 --> 4236.00] and -[4236.00 --> 4236.46] God's -[4236.46 --> 4236.90] word -[4236.90 --> 4237.46] God's -[4237.46 --> 4238.02] image -[4238.02 --> 4238.86] and his -[4238.86 --> 4239.68] word. -[4240.62 --> 4241.14] There's -[4241.14 --> 4241.76] a beautiful -[4241.76 --> 4242.18] quote -[4242.18 --> 4243.22] from -[4243.22 --> 4243.72] Leslie -[4243.72 --> 4244.22] Newbegin. -[4244.34 --> 4244.62] Leslie -[4244.62 --> 4245.18] Newbegin is -[4245.18 --> 4246.72] a British -[4246.72 --> 4247.26] missionary -[4247.26 --> 4247.92] to India -[4247.92 --> 4248.38] and -[4248.38 --> 4249.30] basically -[4249.30 --> 4250.22] the father -[4250.22 --> 4250.82] of modern -[4250.82 --> 4251.46] missiology. -[4251.46 --> 4253.04] he says -[4253.04 --> 4255.32] how is it -[4255.32 --> 4255.80] possible -[4255.80 --> 4256.66] that the -[4256.66 --> 4257.06] gospel -[4257.06 --> 4257.62] should be -[4257.62 --> 4258.02] credible -[4258.02 --> 4259.34] that people -[4259.34 --> 4259.82] should come -[4259.82 --> 4260.40] to believe -[4260.40 --> 4260.86] that the -[4260.86 --> 4261.28] power -[4261.28 --> 4261.96] which has -[4261.96 --> 4262.52] the last -[4262.52 --> 4262.98] word in -[4262.98 --> 4263.68] human affairs -[4263.68 --> 4264.46] is represented -[4264.46 --> 4265.22] by a man -[4265.22 --> 4265.90] hanging on -[4265.90 --> 4266.42] a cross. -[4267.82 --> 4268.84] The only -[4268.84 --> 4269.34] answer -[4269.34 --> 4270.50] the only -[4270.50 --> 4271.10] hermeneutic -[4271.10 --> 4271.36] of the -[4271.36 --> 4271.70] gospel -[4271.70 --> 4272.56] is a -[4272.56 --> 4273.08] congregation -[4273.08 --> 4273.88] of men -[4273.88 --> 4274.80] and women -[4274.80 --> 4275.58] who believe -[4275.58 --> 4275.82] it -[4275.82 --> 4277.00] and live -[4277.00 --> 4277.62] by it. -[4277.62 --> 4280.96] How is it -[4280.96 --> 4281.46] possible -[4281.46 --> 4282.40] that the -[4282.40 --> 4283.02] truth of -[4283.02 --> 4283.48] this word -[4283.48 --> 4283.80] that the -[4283.80 --> 4284.34] truth of -[4284.34 --> 4285.10] Jesus Christ -[4285.10 --> 4285.74] as he -[4285.74 --> 4286.32] has revealed -[4286.32 --> 4286.76] to us -[4286.76 --> 4287.28] how is it -[4287.28 --> 4287.68] possible -[4287.68 --> 4288.32] that the -[4288.32 --> 4288.68] truth -[4288.68 --> 4289.34] that the -[4289.34 --> 4290.26] only way -[4290.26 --> 4290.68] that we -[4290.68 --> 4291.14] can be -[4291.14 --> 4291.76] reconciled -[4291.76 --> 4292.18] to God -[4292.18 --> 4292.50] is by -[4292.50 --> 4293.00] the life -[4293.00 --> 4293.88] and death -[4293.88 --> 4294.44] of Jesus -[4294.44 --> 4295.02] how is it -[4295.02 --> 4295.36] possible -[4295.36 --> 4295.76] that this -[4295.76 --> 4296.28] crazy -[4296.28 --> 4297.06] absurd -[4297.06 --> 4297.40] thing -[4297.40 --> 4297.84] that happened -[4297.84 --> 4298.42] 2,000 -[4298.42 --> 4299.02] years ago -[4299.02 --> 4299.54] where a -[4299.54 --> 4299.94] man who -[4299.94 --> 4300.30] claimed to -[4300.30 --> 4300.66] be God -[4300.66 --> 4301.24] died on -[4301.24 --> 4301.78] a cross -[4301.78 --> 4303.00] how is it -[4303.00 --> 4303.48] possible -[4303.48 --> 4304.60] that that -[4304.60 --> 4305.24] should have -[4305.24 --> 4305.82] the last -[4305.82 --> 4306.18] word -[4306.18 --> 4306.84] that that -[4306.84 --> 4307.48] should be -[4307.48 --> 4308.56] the means -[4308.56 --> 4309.06] by which -[4309.06 --> 4309.82] we understand -[4309.82 --> 4310.38] all of our -[4310.38 --> 4310.56] life -[4310.56 --> 4311.14] how is it -[4311.14 --> 4311.58] possible -[4311.58 --> 4312.76] that that -[4312.76 --> 4313.98] should be -[4313.98 --> 4315.62] what discerns -[4315.62 --> 4316.40] and directs -[4316.40 --> 4317.02] everything -[4317.02 --> 4317.56] that we -[4317.56 --> 4317.88] do -[4317.88 --> 4319.96] well the -[4319.96 --> 4320.30] only way -[4320.30 --> 4320.74] that makes -[4320.74 --> 4321.24] sense -[4321.24 --> 4322.32] in the world -[4322.32 --> 4322.90] around us -[4322.90 --> 4323.46] the only way -[4323.46 --> 4323.78] that that -[4323.78 --> 4324.58] can be seen -[4324.58 --> 4325.34] to be true -[4325.34 --> 4326.26] is -[4326.26 --> 4328.18] in how -[4328.18 --> 4328.96] you and I -[4328.96 --> 4330.18] live in -[4330.18 --> 4330.76] response -[4330.76 --> 4334.02] how we -[4334.02 --> 4335.18] hear this -[4335.18 --> 4335.60] news -[4335.60 --> 4336.48] believe this -[4336.48 --> 4336.90] news -[4336.90 --> 4337.50] and then -[4337.50 --> 4337.90] go -[4337.90 --> 4338.56] transformed -[4338.56 --> 4339.54] to the -[4339.54 --> 4339.84] world -[4339.84 --> 4341.68] go -[4341.68 --> 4342.42] transformed -[4342.42 --> 4343.54] and live -[4343.54 --> 4344.08] in such -[4344.08 --> 4344.44] a way -[4344.44 --> 4344.70] that -[4344.70 --> 4345.68] also -[4345.68 --> 4346.14] doesn't -[4346.14 --> 4346.36] make -[4346.36 --> 4346.80] sense -[4346.80 --> 4348.32] and that -[4348.32 --> 4348.68] likely -[4348.68 --> 4349.22] people are -[4349.22 --> 4349.46] going to -[4349.46 --> 4349.68] think -[4349.68 --> 4350.30] is strange -[4350.30 --> 4351.16] and weird -[4351.16 --> 4352.14] people are -[4352.14 --> 4352.32] going to -[4352.32 --> 4352.46] think -[4352.46 --> 4352.68] it's -[4352.68 --> 4353.24] foolish -[4353.24 --> 4354.76] and they're -[4354.76 --> 4354.90] going to -[4354.90 --> 4355.26] get tripped -[4355.26 --> 4356.02] up by it -[4356.02 --> 4357.74] but they're -[4357.74 --> 4358.22] also going to -[4358.22 --> 4358.56] go -[4358.56 --> 4359.88] why -[4359.88 --> 4361.82] why -[4361.82 --> 4366.18] verse 24 -[4366.18 --> 4366.88] we read -[4366.88 --> 4367.38] that some -[4367.38 --> 4368.12] were convinced -[4368.12 --> 4368.62] by what -[4368.62 --> 4369.22] Paul said -[4369.22 --> 4370.36] but others -[4370.36 --> 4370.86] would not -[4370.86 --> 4371.38] believe -[4371.38 --> 4373.22] and that -[4373.22 --> 4373.76] makes sense -[4373.76 --> 4374.32] right -[4374.32 --> 4376.08] when it's as -[4376.08 --> 4376.92] weird as -[4376.92 --> 4377.56] this -[4377.56 --> 4379.50] when we -[4379.50 --> 4380.36] are as -[4380.36 --> 4381.58] strange as -[4381.58 --> 4382.42] we are -[4382.42 --> 4382.88] some of you -[4382.88 --> 4383.36] more strange -[4383.36 --> 4383.82] than others -[4383.82 --> 4386.12] people are -[4386.12 --> 4386.40] going to -[4386.40 --> 4386.78] wonder -[4386.78 --> 4388.28] why -[4388.28 --> 4390.24] but hear -[4390.24 --> 4390.50] this -[4390.50 --> 4390.72] right -[4390.72 --> 4391.40] you -[4391.40 --> 4392.56] are not -[4392.56 --> 4393.16] responsible -[4393.16 --> 4394.58] for their -[4394.58 --> 4395.36] response -[4395.36 --> 4397.66] you're not -[4397.66 --> 4398.24] responsible -[4398.24 --> 4399.30] for how -[4399.30 --> 4399.80] they hear -[4399.80 --> 4400.24] you -[4400.24 --> 4402.50] right -[4402.50 --> 4402.72] there -[4402.72 --> 4403.20] you are -[4403.20 --> 4403.74] responsible -[4403.74 --> 4404.60] to declare -[4404.60 --> 4405.24] and to -[4405.24 --> 4405.56] proclaim -[4405.56 --> 4406.14] and to -[4406.14 --> 4406.70] live this -[4406.70 --> 4407.30] transformed -[4407.30 --> 4407.72] life -[4407.72 --> 4408.40] in such -[4408.40 --> 4409.08] confusing -[4409.08 --> 4409.52] ways -[4409.52 --> 4410.10] that it's -[4410.10 --> 4410.58] compelling -[4410.58 --> 4411.04] to the -[4411.04 --> 4411.54] world around -[4411.54 --> 4411.76] you -[4411.76 --> 4412.34] but you -[4412.34 --> 4412.62] are not -[4412.62 --> 4413.14] responsible -[4413.14 --> 4413.60] for how -[4413.60 --> 4413.86] they -[4413.86 --> 4414.58] accept -[4414.58 --> 4414.84] it -[4414.84 --> 4415.82] or not -[4415.82 --> 4416.44] that's -[4416.44 --> 4416.68] not -[4416.68 --> 4417.14] on -[4417.14 --> 4417.94] you -[4417.94 --> 4421.00] some -[4421.00 --> 4421.32] of us -[4421.32 --> 4421.60] need to -[4421.60 --> 4421.94] hear that -[4421.94 --> 4422.28] more than -[4422.28 --> 4422.52] others -[4422.52 --> 4422.74] this -[4422.74 --> 4423.04] morning -[4423.04 --> 4425.52] that's -[4425.52 --> 4425.66] not -[4425.66 --> 4425.80] on -[4425.80 --> 4426.00] you -[4426.00 --> 4427.18] it's -[4427.18 --> 4427.30] not -[4427.30 --> 4427.46] your -[4427.46 --> 4428.02] responsibility -[4428.02 --> 4430.20] but you -[4430.20 --> 4430.38] are -[4430.38 --> 4430.90] responsible -[4430.90 --> 4431.24] to -[4431.24 --> 4431.58] proclaim -[4431.58 --> 4431.84] it -[4431.84 --> 4432.80] to -[4432.80 --> 4433.20] declare -[4433.20 --> 4433.54] it -[4433.54 --> 4434.00] with -[4434.00 --> 4434.14] your -[4434.14 --> 4434.56] words -[4434.56 --> 4435.24] and -[4435.24 --> 4435.40] with -[4435.40 --> 4435.54] your -[4435.54 --> 4435.90] life -[4435.90 --> 4436.88] and -[4436.88 --> 4437.02] let -[4437.02 --> 4437.20] the -[4437.20 --> 4437.46] spirit -[4437.46 --> 4437.70] do -[4437.70 --> 4437.86] what -[4437.86 --> 4438.00] the -[4438.00 --> 4438.22] spirit -[4438.22 --> 4438.38] will -[4438.38 --> 4438.60] do -[4438.60 --> 4441.80] the -[4441.80 --> 4442.14] reality -[4442.14 --> 4442.48] is -[4442.48 --> 4442.80] and Paul -[4442.80 --> 4443.06] says -[4443.06 --> 4443.40] this -[4443.40 --> 4443.88] right -[4443.88 --> 4444.10] in -[4444.10 --> 4444.32] verse -[4444.32 --> 4446.26] 26 -[4446.26 --> 4447.26] to 27 -[4447.26 --> 4447.72] he says -[4447.72 --> 4448.50] that basically -[4448.50 --> 4448.96] that the -[4448.96 --> 4449.48] people will -[4449.48 --> 4449.82] be ever -[4449.82 --> 4450.14] hearing -[4450.14 --> 4450.56] but never -[4450.56 --> 4451.16] understanding -[4451.16 --> 4451.90] that they -[4451.90 --> 4452.28] will ever -[4452.28 --> 4452.64] see -[4452.64 --> 4453.20] but never -[4453.20 --> 4453.64] perceive -[4453.64 --> 4454.26] that their -[4454.26 --> 4454.62] hearts -[4454.62 --> 4455.28] have become -[4455.28 --> 4456.18] calloused -[4456.18 --> 4456.38] right -[4456.38 --> 4456.70] Jesus -[4456.70 --> 4457.46] also makes -[4457.46 --> 4457.88] reference -[4457.88 --> 4458.60] to this -[4458.60 --> 4459.00] passage -[4459.00 --> 4459.58] from Isaiah -[4459.58 --> 4460.00] in Matthew -[4460.00 --> 4460.52] 13 -[4460.52 --> 4460.98] or Mark -[4460.98 --> 4461.32] 4 -[4461.32 --> 4461.64] and John -[4461.64 --> 4461.98] 12 -[4461.98 --> 4462.42] right -[4462.42 --> 4462.86] the point -[4462.86 --> 4463.42] is -[4463.42 --> 4463.88] right -[4463.88 --> 4464.38] there are -[4464.38 --> 4464.86] always -[4464.86 --> 4465.42] going to -[4465.42 --> 4465.92] be people -[4465.92 --> 4466.40] who don't -[4466.40 --> 4466.84] believe -[4466.84 --> 4468.20] but their -[4468.20 --> 4468.58] belief -[4468.58 --> 4468.90] or their -[4468.90 --> 4469.38] unbelief -[4469.38 --> 4469.86] is not -[4469.86 --> 4470.08] your -[4470.08 --> 4470.76] responsibility -[4470.76 --> 4471.58] your -[4471.58 --> 4472.10] responsibility -[4472.10 --> 4472.68] is to -[4472.68 --> 4473.08] proclaim -[4473.08 --> 4473.68] the gospel -[4473.68 --> 4474.54] in words -[4474.54 --> 4475.06] and in -[4475.06 --> 4475.48] a life -[4475.48 --> 4475.92] that -[4475.92 --> 4476.40] matches -[4476.40 --> 4478.62] and can -[4478.62 --> 4478.78] I be -[4478.78 --> 4478.98] honest -[4478.98 --> 4479.34] with you -[4479.34 --> 4479.84] if they -[4479.84 --> 4480.52] find that -[4480.52 --> 4480.96] offensive -[4480.96 --> 4482.96] that means -[4482.96 --> 4483.36] you're probably -[4483.36 --> 4483.92] doing something -[4483.92 --> 4484.28] right -[4484.28 --> 4487.76] now don't -[4487.76 --> 4488.12] hear what I'm -[4488.12 --> 4488.58] not saying -[4488.58 --> 4489.16] when I say -[4489.16 --> 4489.48] that -[4489.48 --> 4490.32] right -[4490.32 --> 4490.70] don't be -[4490.70 --> 4491.12] a jerk -[4491.12 --> 4493.22] right -[4493.22 --> 4493.72] but instead -[4493.72 --> 4494.36] let your -[4494.36 --> 4495.12] unmitigated -[4495.12 --> 4495.56] love -[4495.56 --> 4496.80] right -[4496.80 --> 4497.20] let your -[4497.20 --> 4498.06] unflinching -[4498.06 --> 4498.50] pursuit -[4498.50 --> 4499.38] of justice -[4499.38 --> 4500.36] right -[4500.36 --> 4500.70] let your -[4500.70 --> 4501.22] constant -[4501.22 --> 4501.94] lifting up -[4501.94 --> 4502.40] of the -[4502.40 --> 4502.78] poor -[4502.78 --> 4503.34] and the -[4503.34 --> 4503.84] marginalized -[4503.84 --> 4504.56] and your -[4504.56 --> 4505.54] indefatigable -[4505.54 --> 4506.14] desire -[4506.14 --> 4507.10] to declare -[4507.10 --> 4507.82] Jesus Christ -[4507.82 --> 4508.34] as Lord -[4508.34 --> 4508.82] and King -[4508.82 --> 4509.70] be what -[4509.70 --> 4510.50] people find -[4510.50 --> 4511.12] impossible -[4511.12 --> 4512.26] to understand -[4512.26 --> 4514.30] let that -[4514.30 --> 4515.02] be what -[4515.02 --> 4515.66] trips them -[4515.66 --> 4516.04] up -[4516.04 --> 4517.44] and you -[4517.44 --> 4518.38] might be -[4518.38 --> 4518.96] blessed by -[4518.96 --> 4519.42] God to -[4519.42 --> 4519.82] see them -[4519.82 --> 4520.22] tripped -[4520.22 --> 4521.06] and falling -[4521.06 --> 4521.64] into the -[4521.64 --> 4522.00] arms of -[4522.00 --> 4522.56] his grace -[4522.56 --> 4526.08] in verse -[4526.08 --> 4526.78] 28 of -[4526.78 --> 4527.28] our text -[4527.28 --> 4527.88] Paul is -[4527.88 --> 4528.36] basically -[4528.36 --> 4528.82] saying -[4528.82 --> 4529.60] if they -[4529.60 --> 4530.00] don't want -[4530.00 --> 4530.20] to hear -[4530.20 --> 4530.64] the gospel -[4530.64 --> 4531.10] of Jesus -[4531.10 --> 4531.46] if you -[4531.46 --> 4531.74] don't want -[4531.74 --> 4531.92] to hear -[4531.92 --> 4532.32] the gospel -[4532.32 --> 4532.76] of Jesus -[4532.76 --> 4533.90] other people -[4533.90 --> 4534.32] will hear -[4534.32 --> 4534.64] it -[4534.64 --> 4536.84] and so -[4536.84 --> 4537.12] if people -[4537.12 --> 4537.32] in your -[4537.32 --> 4537.48] life -[4537.48 --> 4537.78] don't want -[4537.78 --> 4538.02] to hear -[4538.02 --> 4538.26] it -[4538.26 --> 4539.52] find those -[4539.52 --> 4539.92] that do -[4539.92 --> 4542.96] the mission -[4542.96 --> 4543.40] of God -[4543.40 --> 4544.44] is unstoppable -[4544.44 --> 4545.92] and the -[4545.92 --> 4546.48] church that -[4546.48 --> 4547.04] joins -[4547.04 --> 4547.88] the mission -[4547.88 --> 4548.42] of God -[4548.42 --> 4549.10] is -[4549.10 --> 4549.96] likewise -[4549.96 --> 4551.28] unstoppable -[4551.28 --> 4553.94] because God -[4553.94 --> 4554.58] cannot be -[4554.58 --> 4555.00] stopped -[4555.00 --> 4556.30] the gospel -[4556.30 --> 4556.90] will not -[4556.90 --> 4557.52] be stopped -[4557.52 --> 4558.62] God -[4558.62 --> 4559.34] cannot -[4559.34 --> 4560.24] be -[4560.24 --> 4561.24] stopped -[4561.24 --> 4563.12] that's -[4563.12 --> 4563.14] that's -[4563.14 --> 4563.30] my -[4563.30 --> 4563.76] story -[4563.76 --> 4565.24] and I'm -[4565.24 --> 4565.46] sticking -[4565.46 --> 4566.38] to it -[4566.38 --> 4566.82] amen -[4566.82 --> 4568.18] let's -[4568.18 --> 4568.32] pray -[4568.32 --> 4568.70] together -[4568.70 --> 4574.18] holy -[4574.18 --> 4574.70] holy -[4574.70 --> 4575.26] God -[4575.26 --> 4576.58] you have -[4576.58 --> 4577.02] given us -[4577.02 --> 4577.66] this most -[4577.66 --> 4578.66] amazing -[4578.66 --> 4579.54] and beautiful -[4579.54 --> 4580.10] story -[4580.10 --> 4581.54] and part -[4581.54 --> 4581.94] of what is -[4581.94 --> 4582.64] so amazing -[4582.64 --> 4583.28] about it -[4583.28 --> 4583.70] is that -[4583.70 --> 4584.60] you have -[4584.60 --> 4585.72] invited us -[4585.72 --> 4586.64] into it -[4586.64 --> 4587.86] in fact -[4587.86 --> 4588.20] it is -[4588.20 --> 4588.86] living -[4588.86 --> 4589.72] in the -[4589.72 --> 4590.38] implications -[4590.38 --> 4591.14] of this -[4591.14 --> 4591.56] story -[4591.56 --> 4591.92] that we -[4591.92 --> 4592.42] find our -[4592.42 --> 4592.78] true -[4592.78 --> 4593.52] selves -[4593.52 --> 4593.76] our -[4593.76 --> 4594.10] true -[4594.10 --> 4594.68] heart -[4594.68 --> 4594.94] our -[4594.94 --> 4595.28] true -[4595.28 --> 4595.96] joy -[4595.96 --> 4597.64] and so -[4597.64 --> 4598.30] Lord God -[4598.30 --> 4600.36] inspire us -[4600.36 --> 4601.20] by this -[4601.20 --> 4602.02] story -[4602.02 --> 4604.84] inspire us -[4604.84 --> 4605.20] by the -[4605.20 --> 4605.80] impossible -[4605.80 --> 4606.50] things -[4606.50 --> 4607.12] we have -[4607.12 --> 4607.34] seen -[4607.34 --> 4607.78] Paul -[4607.78 --> 4608.18] do -[4608.18 --> 4608.66] because -[4608.66 --> 4609.08] you -[4609.08 --> 4609.94] are the -[4609.94 --> 4610.26] God -[4610.26 --> 4610.66] of the -[4610.66 --> 4611.18] impossible -[4611.18 --> 4613.88] inspire us -[4613.88 --> 4614.26] by the -[4614.26 --> 4614.82] amazing -[4614.82 --> 4615.48] truths -[4615.48 --> 4616.10] of this -[4616.10 --> 4616.64] story -[4616.64 --> 4617.48] that we -[4617.48 --> 4618.00] might know -[4618.00 --> 4618.36] that you -[4618.36 --> 4618.94] continue -[4618.94 --> 4619.72] to work -[4619.72 --> 4620.42] and to -[4620.42 --> 4620.84] write -[4620.84 --> 4621.74] history -[4621.74 --> 4622.48] to your -[4622.48 --> 4622.92] ends -[4622.92 --> 4623.68] and we -[4623.68 --> 4624.18] now -[4624.18 --> 4625.16] are part -[4625.16 --> 4626.16] of -[4626.16 --> 4626.78] this -[4626.78 --> 4627.72] mission -[4627.72 --> 4629.62] and so -[4629.62 --> 4629.88] God -[4629.88 --> 4630.98] make us -[4630.98 --> 4632.10] witnesses -[4632.10 --> 4633.28] of this -[4633.28 --> 4633.76] story -[4633.76 --> 4634.76] that we -[4634.76 --> 4635.00] might -[4635.00 --> 4635.60] proclaim -[4635.60 --> 4636.98] with boldness -[4636.98 --> 4637.48] the truth -[4637.48 --> 4637.82] of your -[4637.82 --> 4638.10] word -[4638.10 --> 4638.66] and that -[4638.66 --> 4639.16] we might -[4639.16 --> 4640.14] live such -[4640.14 --> 4641.10] compelling -[4641.10 --> 4641.72] lives -[4641.72 --> 4642.20] in the -[4642.20 --> 4642.48] world -[4642.48 --> 4643.42] that though -[4643.42 --> 4643.84] it doesn't -[4643.84 --> 4644.38] make any -[4644.38 --> 4644.84] sense to -[4644.84 --> 4645.06] them -[4645.06 --> 4647.68] that in -[4647.68 --> 4648.18] us -[4648.18 --> 4648.94] and through -[4648.94 --> 4649.38] us -[4649.38 --> 4650.32] they might -[4650.32 --> 4650.70] see -[4650.70 --> 4651.26] you -[4651.26 --> 4652.56] and -[4652.56 --> 4653.00] praise -[4653.00 --> 4653.48] your -[4653.48 --> 4653.80] name -[4653.80 --> 4655.02] this is -[4655.02 --> 4655.18] our -[4655.18 --> 4655.50] prayer -[4655.50 --> 4656.86] and this -[4656.86 --> 4657.12] is our -[4657.12 --> 4657.42] mission -[4657.42 --> 4658.52] in Jesus -[4658.52 --> 4658.86] Christ -[4658.86 --> 4659.36] we pray -[4659.36 --> 4660.62] amen -[4660.62 --> 4662.12] amen -[4662.12 --> 4676.20] oh for a fender -[4676.20 --> 4678.42] to록 -[4678.42 --> 4678.68] word -[4678.68 --> 4679.46] oh for a thousand -[4679.46 --> 4691.66] Oh for a thousand tongues to sing -[4691.66 --> 4696.16] My great Redeemer's praise -[4696.16 --> 4701.08] The glories of my God in King -[4701.08 --> 4706.10] The triumphs of His praise -[4706.10 --> 4712.98] My gracious Master and my God -[4712.98 --> 4716.72] Assist me to proclaim -[4716.72 --> 4722.24] To spread through all the earth the throne -[4722.24 --> 4727.12] The honors of thy name -[4727.12 --> 4734.10] He brings the power of canceled sin -[4734.10 --> 4738.42] He sets the prisoner free -[4738.42 --> 4743.10] His blood can make the promise free -[4743.62 --> 4748.10] His blood availed for me -[4748.10 --> 4755.90] Hear in you death, you voiceless ones -[4755.90 --> 4760.10] Your loosened tongues employ -[4760.10 --> 4765.42] You blind behold your Savior come -[4765.42 --> 4771.42] And leave you lame for joy -[4771.42 --> 4779.10] Don't love your deep words of love -[4779.10 --> 4783.42] Be now and ever again -[4783.98 --> 4788.74] Life sings below and sings above -[4788.74 --> 4794.06] The church in earth and hell -[4794.06 --> 4806.04] Following our worship together -[4806.04 --> 4808.10] There's going to be a time of fellowship at the back -[4808.10 --> 4813.66] We encourage you to stick around and enjoy a cup of coffee and some time together -[4813.66 --> 4817.10] Encourage one another with what you've seen God doing in your midst -[4817.10 --> 4819.72] Invite others to share what they have seen God doing -[4819.72 --> 4822.08] If you'd like to meet someone for prayer -[4822.08 --> 4823.98] There will be someone up here at the front -[4823.98 --> 4825.28] With a yellow name tag on -[4825.28 --> 4827.56] They'd love to meet you and pray with you -[4827.56 --> 4829.72] About whatever it is that God has laid on your heart -[4829.72 --> 4831.24] To pray this morning -[4831.24 --> 4833.32] Lastly, just a quick reminder -[4833.32 --> 4835.62] If you'd like to sign up for one of those -[4835.62 --> 4837.48] Ten remaining places for reactivate -[4837.48 --> 4839.34] To meet Rachel at the -[4839.34 --> 4840.32] Connect booth -[4840.32 --> 4841.42] And she will get you there -[4841.42 --> 4845.36] As you go from this place -[4845.36 --> 4848.12] And to the softball diamond -[4848.12 --> 4849.50] Later on this afternoon -[4849.50 --> 4853.40] May you go with the blessing of our God -[4853.40 --> 4855.06] Receive God's blessing -[4855.06 --> 4858.96] God go before you to lead you -[4858.96 --> 4861.94] God go behind you to protect you -[4861.94 --> 4864.16] God go beneath you to support you -[4864.16 --> 4866.92] And God go beside you to befriend you -[4866.92 --> 4869.20] Do not be afraid -[4869.20 --> 4871.76] Let the blessing of God come upon you today -[4871.76 --> 4873.48] Do not be afraid -[4873.48 --> 4875.96] But go in peace -[4875.96 --> 4879.12] To join the mission of God -[4879.12 --> 4880.24] Amen -[4880.24 --> 4887.00] Amen -[4887.00 --> 4889.00] Amen. -[4917.00 --> 4919.00] Amen. -[4947.00 --> 4949.00] Amen. -[4977.00 --> 4979.00] Amen. -[5007.00 --> 5009.00] Amen. -[5037.00 --> 5039.00] Amen. -[5067.00 --> 5069.00] Amen. -[5097.00 --> 5099.00] Amen. -[5127.00 --> 5129.00] Amen. -[5157.00 --> 5159.00] Amen. -[5187.00 --> 5189.00] Amen. -[5217.00 --> 5219.00] Amen. -[5247.00 --> 5249.00] Amen. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, Sep 15, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, Sep 15, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3963f9aaeb566a142c61b121cc69e29633449ba8..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, Sep 15, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,70 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction to a church season of reflection -• Discussion of the church's mission and goals summarized in three words: "gather, grow, and go" -• Reflection on the importance of evaluating and adjusting church activities during back-to-school and back-to-work seasons -• The importance of gathering as a church -• Why people may question the necessity of attending church -• Seven reasons why we must gather (touched on briefly) -• Genesis 1 and creation: humans made in God's image -• Resting on the seventh day, a pattern set by God -• Transition from Sabbath to Lord's Day for gathering -• The church is described as a great multitude from every nation, tribe, and people, standing before the throne and Lamb, wearing white robes and holding palm branches. -• The purpose of gathering with God's people is to worship Him and glorify Him, and to be united with other Christians throughout time and space. -• The church is not an event, but a body, with Christ as its head, and individual believers are part of this body. -• Gathering together helps individuals make sense of their union with Christ and His body. -• The gathered church should be a lived example of the spiritual reality of Christ's body. -• Hebrews 10 emphasizes the importance of meeting together to encourage one another to love and good works. -• The author of the letter to the Hebrews emphasizes the importance of gathering together as we approach the Lord's day -• Gathering prepares us for the last day, but also perseveres us through it -• The Canons of Dort (Article 14) states that God preserves and completes the work of grace in us through hearing, reading, and living the gospel -• Gathering shows love and community has a greater purpose than personal life -• The church is meant to be a new kind of community where love is lived out through divine hospitality -• Loving others as we have been loved by Jesus is key to experiencing this kind of community -• Gathering together demonstrates God's love to the world around us, making us more able to live it out -• The church gathers to be reminded of the truth of God's love for them -• Ephesians 3:10-11 highlights the importance of the church in making known the manifold wisdom of God to the heavenly realms -• The gathering of the church is a mystery that even angels and demons look on in wonder -• The local church is an embassy of the high king, protected from the powers and principalities of this world -• Jesus is present when two or three are gathered in his name, establishing the truth that he is among them -• The passage of Colossians is discussed and explained, emphasizing Christ's role as the creator, sustainer, and head of the church. -• The local church is described as an embassy or outpost of heaven, with Christ as the high king. -• The purpose of gathering in church is to worship and lay down personal preferences for the benefit of others. -• The decline in church attendance and participation is mentioned, particularly in the North American West after the COVID pandemic. -• The passage concludes with a call to reframe one's perspective on attending church, from obligation to privilege and opportunity. -• The Great Dechurching by Davis and Graham, and Burge -• Sociological analysis of why people leave church and the potential for reimagination and re-bolstering understanding of community and gathering -• Research findings on what motivates people to attend or return to church, including making new friends, being invited, seeking a good community, and family obligations -• The importance of simply asking or inviting others to gather in faith communities -• The transformative power of experiencing love that changes everything about who one is -• The importance of gathering with conviction and energy -• God's presence and making himself known -• Requesting continued gathering and receiving from God the grace of his word made tangible -• Growing by the truth of the gospel as they taste and see that God is good -• Meeting at Jesus' feast and praying in his name alone -• The liturgy and prayer are discussed -• A call to join in the liturgy and reflection is made -• Gratitude is expressed for creation, covenant with God, and Jesus Christ's sacrifice -• The institution of the Eucharist by Jesus is referenced -• The significance of remembrance and proclamation of Jesus' death is emphasized -• Affirmation of Jesus' coming with joy and hope -• Invitation to the Lord's table for all people, regardless of faith or trust level -• Inclusion of those present in person or online -• Explanation of the gifts of God for His people -• Description of the communal act of partaking in the Eucharist -• Instructions on passing elements and saying phrases during communion -• Introduction to service logistics -• Invitation for worship leaders and volunteers to come forward -• Instructions on how to receive communion (including gluten-free options) -• Prayer led by worship leaders -• References to Jesus Christ's sacrifice and death -• Discussion of personal sin and guilt -• Boasting in the name of Jesus Christ and his resurrection -• Acknowledgement of being a recipient of God's love and redemption -• Reflection on spiritual freedom and forgiveness -• Expressions of gratitude for God's justice, love, and mercy -• Comparison to the hymn "Amazing Grace" -• References to salvation, rescue, and divine intervention -• The importance of love and unity in Christianity -• A blessing for a journey of faith, with God's presence and protection -• Encouragement to walk together, hand in hand, and strengthen community bonds -• Praise for the Spirit that makes them one -• Repeated emphasis on being known by their love \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, Sep 15, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, Sep 15, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3c09230fe24bb90791373ec9254cb0f2a02b90f7..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, Sep 15, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1271 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[389.98 --> 419.96] Thank you. -[419.98 --> 449.96] Thank you. -[449.98 --> 479.96] Thank you. -[479.96 --> 509.94] Thank you. -[509.96 --> 539.94] Thank you. -[539.94 --> 569.92] Thank you. -[569.92 --> 599.90] Thank you. -[599.92 --> 629.90] Thank you. -[629.92 --> 659.90] Thank you. -[659.90 --> 689.88] Thank you. -[689.90 --> 719.88] Thank you. -[719.90 --> 749.88] Thank you. -[749.88 --> 779.86] Thank you. -[779.88 --> 809.86] Thank you. -[809.88 --> 839.86] Thank you. -[839.88 --> 869.86] Thank you. -[869.88 --> 899.86] Thank you. -[899.88 --> 929.86] Thank you. -[929.86 --> 959.84] Thank you. -[959.86 --> 989.86] So, -[989.86 --> 1019.84] Thank you. -[1019.84 --> 1019.86] Thank you. -[1049.84 --> 1079.82] Thank you. -[1079.84 --> 1109.82] Thank you. -[1109.84 --> 1139.82] Ephesians 2. -[1139.84 --> 1169.82] In him, you are also, -[1169.82 --> 1199.80] Thank you. -[1199.80 --> 1229.78] Thank you. -[1229.78 --> 1259.76] Thank you. -[1259.76 --> 1289.74] Thank you. -[1289.76 --> 1319.74] Thank you. -[1319.76 --> 1349.74] Thank you. -[1349.76 --> 1379.74] Thank you. -[1379.76 --> 1409.74] Thank you. -[1409.76 --> 1439.74] Thank you. -[1439.76 --> 1469.74] Thank you. -[1469.76 --> 1499.74] Thank you. -[1499.76 --> 1529.74] Thank you. -[1529.76 --> 1559.74] Thank you. -[1559.76 --> 1589.74] Thank you. -[1589.76 --> 1619.74] In the name of Jesus. -[1619.74 --> 1649.72] O Lord, hear. -[1649.72 --> 1679.70] O Lord, forgive us. -[1679.70 --> 1709.68] Thank you. -[1709.68 --> 1739.66] Thank you. -[1739.68 --> 1769.66] Thank you. -[1769.66 --> 1799.64] Thank you. -[1799.64 --> 1829.62] Thank you. -[1829.64 --> 1859.62] Thank you. -[1859.62 --> 1889.60] Thank you. -[1889.62 --> 1919.60] Thank you. -[1919.60 --> 1949.58] Thank you. -[1949.58 --> 1979.56] Thank you. -[1979.56 --> 2009.54] Make you. -[2009.54 --> 2039.52] Thank you. -[2039.54 --> 2069.54] There will be -[2069.54 --> 2099.52] Thank you. -[2099.52 --> 2129.50] Thank you. -[2129.52 --> 2159.50] Thank you. -[2159.50 --> 2189.48] Thank you. -[2189.48 --> 2219.46] Thank you. -[2219.48 --> 2249.48] Thank you. -[2249.48 --> 2279.46] Thank you. -[2279.46 --> 2309.44] Thank you. -[2309.46 --> 2339.44] Thank you. -[2339.44 --> 2369.42] Thank you. -[2369.44 --> 2399.42] Thank you. -[2399.44 --> 2429.42] Thank you. -[2429.44 --> 2459.42] Thank you. -[2459.44 --> 2489.42] Thank you. -[2489.44 --> 2519.42] Thank you. -[2519.42 --> 2549.40] Thank you. -[2549.42 --> 2579.40] Thank you. -[2579.40 --> 2609.38] I'm on a name, -[2609.38 --> 2639.38] Thank you. -[2639.38 --> 2669.38] Thank you. -[2669.38 --> 2699.36] Thank you. -[2699.38 --> 2729.36] Thank you. -[2729.36 --> 2759.34] Thank you. -[2759.36 --> 2789.34] Thank you. -[2789.34 --> 2819.34] Thank you. -[2819.34 --> 2849.34] Thank you. -[2849.34 --> 2879.34] Thank you. -[2879.34 --> 2909.34] Thank you. -[2909.34 --> 2939.34] Thank you. -[2939.34 --> 2969.34] Thank you. -[2969.34 --> 2999.34] Thank you. -[2999.34 --> 3029.34] Thank you. -[3029.34 --> 3059.34] Thank you. -[3059.34 --> 3089.34] Thank you. -[3089.34 --> 3090.34] Thank you. -[3119.34 --> 3121.34] Thank you. -[3149.34 --> 3179.34] Thank you. -[3179.34 --> 3181.34] Thank you. -[3209.34 --> 3210.34] Thank you. -[3239.34 --> 3269.32] Thank you. -[3269.34 --> 3299.34] Thank you. -[3299.34 --> 3301.34] Thank you. -[3329.34 --> 3330.34] Thank you. -[3359.34 --> 3360.34] Thank you. -[3389.34 --> 3390.34] We pray. -[3419.34 --> 3420.34] Thank you. -[3449.34 --> 3479.34] You have -[3479.34 --> 3496.72] It is September, it's the season of beginnings, back to school, back to regular patterns of work -[3496.72 --> 3505.42] and life for many people, and for us here as well at church, back into the sort of normal -[3505.42 --> 3514.36] patterns of ministry life together. Every year at this time, during this season, we tend to pause for a moment -[3514.36 --> 3524.78] and look at what it is that we do and why we do what it is that we do. For us at Emanuel, that is -[3524.78 --> 3535.08] summarized really quickly with three words, gather, grow, and go. And so for the next three Sundays, -[3535.54 --> 3538.90] we're going to look at each one of those words and what it means for us and how it shapes -[3538.90 --> 3546.14] what we do together as a church. And this morning, starting with in that, we're looking at the word -[3546.14 --> 3560.48] gather. Why do we gather here? Why do we come together on Sunday or in different days of the week, -[3560.48 --> 3565.92] different ministries and different opportunities and different chances to serve? What is it about -[3565.92 --> 3577.56] gathering that is important for us? Or maybe you're more likely to wonder, is it important for us? -[3579.20 --> 3587.60] I was reflecting on that this morning and realizing that particularly if you are a parent or have -[3587.60 --> 3594.88] ever parented young children, right, you might be familiar with the question, why do we have to go -[3594.88 --> 3602.22] to church? Now, when I was a kid, it was, why do we have to go to church twice? Some of you remember -[3602.22 --> 3609.36] that. Some of you still have trauma recovering from that experience. Why do we have to go to church? -[3609.36 --> 3617.04] Do we have to go to church? What's the point of all of that? And to be honest, asking this question -[3617.04 --> 3623.98] at a time like this is actually really prescient because as you look around the church in North -[3623.98 --> 3631.30] America, a lot of people are saying, I don't have to. It's not that important. It's not a big deal. -[3631.30 --> 3640.32] Now, let's be really clear. That is true here in North America. Globally, praise the Lord, that's not -[3640.32 --> 3646.26] the case. Globally, the Christian church is still growing at a pace that is incredible to behold. -[3647.24 --> 3655.46] But why for us does it continue to matter? And so my prayer this morning, my hope this morning -[3655.46 --> 3664.96] is to hold out to you maybe a little bit of a vision for why we must gather. That it's actually -[3664.96 --> 3673.30] about something more than just coming to an event. But there's something more going on here. -[3674.16 --> 3680.78] And so I want to share with you really quickly, because I am mindful of the time, seven reasons -[3680.78 --> 3687.74] why we must gather. And to do that, we're going to do things a little bit differently this morning. -[3687.86 --> 3692.42] I'm not going to start with one text and then work our way through that text. I'm going to share with -[3692.42 --> 3698.62] you a bunch of texts, and they will be on the screen behind me as we go through together. -[3699.38 --> 3705.38] But to make sense of this and to start answering this question, why must we gather, it's actually -[3705.38 --> 3710.46] fitting, I think, for us to start at the beginning. And so we're going to start with -[3710.46 --> 3723.50] creation, right? In Genesis 1, on the sixth day of creation, God says in Genesis 1 verse 26, -[3723.94 --> 3729.80] let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea, -[3729.90 --> 3735.38] and the birds in the sky, over the livestock, and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures -[3735.38 --> 3742.44] that move along the ground. So God created mankind in his own image. In the image of God, -[3742.52 --> 3749.14] he created them. Male and female, he created them. What I want you to hear in there, right, -[3749.18 --> 3759.48] is that we are created in the image of God. And so if you're in your Bible, if you flip over a page at the -[3759.48 --> 3767.86] end of the first creation story, in Genesis 2 verse 1, we read, thus the heavens and the earth were -[3767.86 --> 3774.00] completed in all their vast array, and by the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing. -[3774.36 --> 3781.40] So on the seventh day he rested from all his work. Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, -[3781.40 --> 3791.52] because on it he rested from all the work of creation. And this becomes a pattern, a pattern -[3791.52 --> 3799.08] that God calls us to live into as those who are created in his image, right? If you are created in -[3799.08 --> 3805.90] the image and likeness of God and he rests on the seventh day, maybe there's a reason, a creationally -[3805.90 --> 3816.06] normative reason for you to rest regularly as well. And in fact, as this works out, this will be -[3816.06 --> 3822.54] presented to the people of Israel in the Ten Commandments. And so when the people are rediscovering -[3822.54 --> 3828.70] their relationship to God, one of the things that they do is receive from him a law. And in the fourth -[3828.70 --> 3838.24] commandment in Exodus 20 verse 8, we read, remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you -[3838.24 --> 3843.30] shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you -[3843.30 --> 3849.02] shall not do any work, neither you nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your -[3849.02 --> 3855.30] animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, -[3855.30 --> 3860.90] the sea and all that is in them. But he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the -[3860.90 --> 3869.94] Sabbath day and made it holy. But the first reason I want you to see that we are called to gather, -[3870.04 --> 3880.86] why we must gather, is that you were made for this. You were made to rest in the Lord. In fact, -[3880.86 --> 3887.40] Jesus will affirm this in Mark. He says the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. And so -[3887.40 --> 3894.90] part of what's going on here is that God has given you the Sabbath as a way of resting in him. And so -[3894.90 --> 3902.10] let me be again clear, it's less about a day and what day, it's more about a practice. It's more about a -[3902.10 --> 3910.38] rhythm, right? And very on in the early church in the New Testament, the practice of gathering changed -[3910.38 --> 3916.72] from the Sabbath, which is the Saturday, to the Lord's Day. The early church gathers together on -[3916.72 --> 3922.34] what's called the Lord's Day because that's Resurrection Sunday. The day that Jesus was -[3922.34 --> 3929.18] raised from the dead, the first day of the week, is the day we now gather to worship our God. You were -[3929.18 --> 3938.96] made for this rhythm of communal being together. And not only that, right, were you made for this -[3938.96 --> 3949.16] from the beginning, it's also your end. It's your telos. It's part of our purpose together. In Revelation 7, -[3949.52 --> 3950.46] it says, -[3950.46 --> 3958.74] After this, I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count from every -[3958.74 --> 3964.76] nation, tribe, and people, and language. Standing before the throne and before the Lamb, they were -[3964.76 --> 3970.00] wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands, and they cried out in a loud voice, -[3970.52 --> 3975.94] Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne and to the Lamb. -[3975.94 --> 3983.36] And not only were you created for this regular rhythm of gathering together with God's people, -[3983.46 --> 3993.06] but that is our end, our goal, to worship God and to glorify Him, to stand in His presence with all -[3993.06 --> 4000.26] those Christians from around the world throughout time and space and history, and to worship the Lamb. -[4000.26 --> 4013.76] You were made for this. And we continue. For the second reason, we're going to look at Ephesians 4. -[4015.64 --> 4020.90] Ephesians 4, 15 and 16. We read, -[4021.32 --> 4028.22] Speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of Him who is the head -[4028.22 --> 4034.54] that is Christ. From Him, the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, -[4034.66 --> 4043.98] grows and builds itself up in love as each part does its work. Now, next week, when Kevin is up here -[4043.98 --> 4050.50] preaching, he's going to look at the word grow and how that is part of our purpose and our being -[4050.50 --> 4057.16] together. From this text, what I want us to see is that the church is not an event, it is a body. -[4058.22 --> 4063.96] And so, even this regular rhythm of gathering together isn't about the event, it's about being -[4063.96 --> 4071.76] part of the body. The church is the body of Christ and He is their head. And this isn't just a metaphor, -[4072.12 --> 4078.66] this isn't just a word picture, this is actually a spiritual reality for us. Right, over and over and -[4078.66 --> 4083.92] over again in the New Testament, this is affirmed, right, that we are the body of Christ by grace -[4083.92 --> 4091.76] through faith and that He is our head. Part of what it means to be Christian is to be becoming like -[4091.76 --> 4099.12] Jesus. Because what it means to be Christian is to be united to Jesus in His life and in His death and -[4099.12 --> 4105.30] in His resurrection. And our individual participation in the divine nature, to use the language of 2 Peter, -[4105.30 --> 4114.26] that is becoming as Christ, that happens in the body, right, that's being worked out in the body as a -[4114.26 --> 4124.94] whole united to her head. The individual believer's union with Christ makes for a necessary and -[4124.94 --> 4134.32] consequent union with others in the body. There ought to be no such thing as an individualistic -[4134.32 --> 4143.28] Christian. Because the truth is, right, if the church is Jesus' body, if you want the whole of -[4143.28 --> 4152.78] Jesus, you need the church. To be connected to Jesus as your head is simultaneously to be connected -[4152.78 --> 4163.48] to others as His body. The church is intended to be a lived example of this spiritual reality. -[4164.32 --> 4169.88] The gathered church helps us make sense of the head and who the head is. -[4171.68 --> 4178.56] I was thinking about a way to illustrate this and I was reminded of a story when my kids were really -[4178.56 --> 4184.86] young. We were walking as a family into Old Navy and I don't know if you have seen this before, but -[4184.86 --> 4190.10] oftentimes when you walk into Old Navy or other clothing stores, there's mannequins at the front, -[4190.10 --> 4196.58] right, that have the wares on them. Well, I don't know when this happened, but mannequins today don't -[4196.58 --> 4204.12] have heads. And so we walked into Old Navy and one of my kids, really young, they looked up and they said, -[4204.20 --> 4212.24] what is that? Because it wasn't recognizable as a person because it didn't have a head, right? -[4212.24 --> 4222.96] In the same way, the church is made recognizable as the church because of our head, because of who Jesus is, -[4222.96 --> 4233.34] right? And likewise, Jesus is made recognizable and embodied by the church, by having a body. -[4233.34 --> 4249.60] The reason we gather is because the church isn't an event. What we do here isn't just another thing -[4249.60 --> 4257.96] or box to check in your week. This is the work and the being and the gathering of the body. -[4257.96 --> 4270.48] Next, I want us to look at Hebrews 10. Hebrews 10 verse 24 and 25 says, -[4270.48 --> 4281.72] let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together as -[4281.72 --> 4287.94] is the habit of some, but encouraging one another and all the more as you see the day approaching. -[4287.96 --> 4295.68] As we read this text and as you see it behind me there, let us consider how to stir up one another -[4295.68 --> 4300.90] to love and good works, not neglecting meeting together as some are in the habit of doing. -[4301.42 --> 4308.08] You see, there's a connection between you showing up and you being stirred up, right? You need to show -[4308.08 --> 4316.56] up in order to stir up. One way to think about this, I don't know if you are familiar, in some places -[4316.56 --> 4323.06] around the world, usually tropical places, there is an algae that lives in water and it passively, -[4323.12 --> 4328.36] it just sits there. But if you run your hand through the water, if you throw a stone in the water, -[4328.46 --> 4334.06] it lights up, it illuminates. It's this bioluminescent algae that reacts to being stirred. -[4336.10 --> 4342.84] That's what's happening here, right? You need to show up to be stirred up in order to glow up. -[4342.84 --> 4347.50] Now, I know glow up means something different in the world today, but I want you to shine like stars -[4347.50 --> 4353.94] in the universe, like Paul says in Philippians 2, as you hold out the word of life, right? You need to -[4353.94 --> 4360.80] show up in order to be stirred up, right? To love and to good works. Part of what we do here is be -[4360.80 --> 4369.58] encouraged to shine like stars. Next, out of this text, what I want you to see, right? That let us -[4369.58 --> 4373.68] consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting meeting together, -[4373.78 --> 4377.06] as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another. And this last line, -[4377.62 --> 4387.72] all the more as you see the day drawing near. Now, in the Bible, the day or the Lord's day -[4387.72 --> 4394.42] is a bit of a theologically technical term, anticipating that great day of judgment, -[4394.42 --> 4398.70] that great day of the consummation of the kingdom, that great day of Christ's return. -[4399.88 --> 4406.50] And what the author of the letter to the Hebrews is saying is that far from gathering together less, -[4407.02 --> 4411.48] the closer we get to that day, the more we ought to be gathering together. -[4412.70 --> 4417.46] And what we're hearing and seeing here, the fourth reason that we must gather is that the Lord's day -[4417.46 --> 4425.40] prepares you for the last day, or that everything we do here is looking forward to that great day. -[4425.46 --> 4432.48] But even more than that, right? The Lord's day prepares you, but also it perseveres you, right? -[4432.48 --> 4440.02] One of the means by which we are carried and sustained unto that last day is by gathering together. -[4441.56 --> 4445.62] Now, I'm going to ask for your grace for a minute because I'm going to nerd out here. -[4445.62 --> 4452.56] In our church tradition, the continental reform tradition that we are part of, -[4453.36 --> 4458.16] we have three forms of unity, three confessions or statements of faith, -[4458.52 --> 4462.88] and the one most often neglected and forgotten is called the canons of Dort. -[4463.56 --> 4468.72] Now, when you hear canons of Dort, don't picture massive cannons on top of a castle, right, -[4468.72 --> 4474.68] shooting things out. Rather, here, lists and a description of a truth and an idea. -[4475.62 --> 4482.50] Canons of Dort, the article 14 of the fourth and fifth main point of doctrine says, -[4482.50 --> 4489.54] just as it has pleased God to begin this work of grace in us by the proclamation of the gospel, -[4490.74 --> 4497.42] so God preserves, continues, and completes this work by the hearing and reading of the gospel, -[4497.64 --> 4503.32] by meditation on it, by its exhortations, threats, and promises, and also by use of the sacraments. -[4503.32 --> 4509.98] All right, so just as you become a Christian by grace through faith in believing the gospel, -[4509.98 --> 4516.86] you remain a Christian by grace through faith in hearing, practicing, and living the gospel. -[4517.92 --> 4524.42] Right, God does this for us, and this right here, this ordinary thing is in fact extraordinary -[4524.42 --> 4533.86] because God is using it to persevere you to the end. The Lord's day prepares you and perseveres you -[4533.86 --> 4539.66] for the last day. Next, let's jump to John. -[4542.04 --> 4549.60] John 13, 34, and 35. Jesus says to his disciples who've gathered around him, -[4549.60 --> 4557.18] a new command I give you, love one another. As I have loved you, so must you love one another. -[4558.06 --> 4565.04] By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another. -[4566.40 --> 4576.92] Here's the idea for us, right? Gathering together shows you and others that your love has a greater -[4576.92 --> 4579.90] purpose than your life. -[4581.32 --> 4586.40] Right, the idea here is that the church isn't just meant to be a new community, -[4586.84 --> 4592.20] because there are plenty of those springing up, right? Some of you are part of cornhole communities. -[4593.08 --> 4598.22] That wasn't a thing five years ago, right? Some of you are part of pickleball communities. -[4598.22 --> 4602.66] That also wasn't a thing five years ago, right? There's all sorts of new communities springing up. -[4602.66 --> 4608.18] What's different about this one? The church is meant to be a new kind of community. -[4609.86 --> 4616.04] It turns out that the gospel is, in some ways, divine hospitality, right? -[4617.88 --> 4625.68] This was said by Sam Alberry and Dane Ortlund in a book that they wrote called You're Not Crazy. -[4625.68 --> 4631.70] They say that the finished work of Christ on the cross is not God's way of saying to us, -[4631.88 --> 4636.78] you're now free to go, but it's God's way of saying to us, you are now free to come. -[4637.62 --> 4640.34] He's not sending us off, he's inviting us in. -[4642.08 --> 4649.10] And the way that we live that kind of love received from God is by loving others in that same way. -[4649.10 --> 4656.12] And so part of our gathering here continues in your gathering on Wednesday and Tuesday and Thursday -[4656.12 --> 4659.88] as you invite people into your homes, as you invite people into your lives. -[4660.40 --> 4666.62] Part of the gathering that we have here, giving our love purpose and showing us true love, right? -[4666.70 --> 4668.56] Jesus says in John 15, -[4668.78 --> 4674.32] greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for a friend. -[4674.32 --> 4680.92] The kind of love, this new kind of community that the church is living and experiencing and sharing -[4680.92 --> 4685.62] is one that is willing to die to self for the sake of another. -[4686.18 --> 4693.34] One that is willing to sacrifice my comfort or my finances in order to build wealth in Africa. -[4696.24 --> 4700.32] This is what we gather to do. -[4700.32 --> 4707.96] It turns out, again, Josh Vincent summarized it. -[4708.02 --> 4715.30] He said, the local church is God's chief evangelistic strategy for a lost and dying world. -[4716.98 --> 4718.20] That's why we gather. -[4719.12 --> 4722.78] To show God's love to the world around us. -[4722.78 --> 4729.42] To be made more and more able to live that love to the world around us. -[4730.32 --> 4738.66] We gather because doing so shows your love has a greater purpose than your life. -[4739.20 --> 4743.50] Because your love reveals the love of Jesus. -[4744.04 --> 4746.12] A love that took Him to the cross. -[4746.74 --> 4753.24] A love that moved Him to keep perfectly the demands and commands of the law in my place. -[4753.24 --> 4759.18] A love that moved Him in grace to give me His righteousness. -[4759.48 --> 4761.36] To lay that on my shoulders. -[4761.68 --> 4768.68] To impute that to me like I am clothed now in Him such that when God looks at me, He sees His Son. -[4770.62 --> 4776.74] And even though He died, that same Jesus was raised three days later victorious over sin and death. -[4776.74 --> 4779.64] And out of that same love that brought Him down. -[4779.64 --> 4781.82] Out of that same love that raised Him up. -[4781.88 --> 4785.00] Out of that same love He now loves us. -[4785.18 --> 4787.76] That we might love others. -[4788.58 --> 4789.80] That's why we gather. -[4790.48 --> 4793.74] To be reminded of this truth. -[4798.40 --> 4804.04] For our sixth reason, we see Ephesians 3, 10, and 11. -[4804.04 --> 4806.34] Where Paul writes, -[4806.34 --> 4816.02] His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms. -[4816.20 --> 4822.36] According to His eternal purpose that He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. -[4823.52 --> 4825.18] Now this one's easy to miss. -[4826.48 --> 4831.48] But there's something mysterious about what happens here. -[4831.48 --> 4839.14] Our gathering makes angels and demons look on in wonder. -[4840.04 --> 4840.90] Did you catch that? -[4841.72 --> 4847.94] That the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms. -[4849.96 --> 4852.48] Through the church. -[4854.82 --> 4859.38] 1 Peter says that even angels long to look into these things. -[4859.38 --> 4865.78] When individual believers gather to glorify Christ together. -[4866.02 --> 4870.52] Even the cosmic forces in unseen realms tune in. -[4871.28 --> 4873.30] And try to make sense of what's happening here. -[4875.00 --> 4878.60] And sometimes I think it's really easy for us to miss that. -[4878.68 --> 4880.72] Because our focus is so small. -[4880.80 --> 4882.92] Because what's in front of us seems so big. -[4882.92 --> 4886.82] In fact, I want to articulate that. -[4889.10 --> 4890.16] We have a picture. -[4890.32 --> 4891.86] Can we put that picture up on the screen? -[4892.02 --> 4892.56] The first one? -[4894.02 --> 4895.96] So that's hard to see and make sense of. -[4895.98 --> 4896.76] And that's kind of the point. -[4897.88 --> 4899.92] But there's dots there. -[4901.16 --> 4904.50] Those dots on their own aren't that impressive. -[4904.50 --> 4908.28] But when you zoom out. -[4908.38 --> 4909.18] Show us the next one. -[4911.00 --> 4916.54] Those dots come together to paint a beautiful picture. -[4916.72 --> 4920.78] This is a painting called A Sunday on Le Grand Yat. -[4920.84 --> 4925.42] It's by French painter from the 19th century named Georges Serrat. -[4925.42 --> 4927.98] And the art form is called pointillism. -[4929.22 --> 4933.32] So everything you see there is an individual dot. -[4934.32 --> 4937.26] That comes together to make a picture. -[4938.92 --> 4939.46] Right? -[4939.60 --> 4942.02] That's what's happening when the church gathers. -[4942.14 --> 4946.06] And sometimes it's hard for us to see how our little dot matters. -[4946.06 --> 4954.28] But in the whole picture, even angels are astounded by what is taking place here. -[4956.54 --> 4958.10] That's why we gather. -[4960.26 --> 4967.64] And then let's lastly look at 2 Corinthians 3.18. -[4969.44 --> 4970.80] There we read. -[4970.80 --> 4995.80] As we land this together, here's the last thing I want us to see about why we must gather. -[4995.80 --> 5002.40] Because, you see, the local church is an embassy of the high king. -[5004.22 --> 5007.16] The local church is an embassy of the high king. -[5007.24 --> 5011.26] Now, maybe you're not familiar with how embassies in different countries work. -[5014.44 --> 5020.60] If you visit an embassy, the simple understanding is that when you enter the property of the embassy, -[5020.76 --> 5022.56] so say you're visiting the embassy in Canada, -[5022.56 --> 5026.14] as soon as you cross the property line, you are on Canadian soil. -[5027.50 --> 5029.24] Now, it's a little bit more complicated than that. -[5029.34 --> 5033.56] And behind it is the principle of involliability. -[5034.88 --> 5035.98] Now, that's a complicated word. -[5036.04 --> 5040.02] But what it means is the host country cannot interfere with them -[5040.02 --> 5043.08] or take legal action against the embassy or its personnel -[5043.08 --> 5047.50] in the same way that they can in local institutions or in their own land. -[5047.50 --> 5055.12] Part of why we gather how the church functions as a local embassy of the high king -[5055.12 --> 5059.16] is that here in this space and in this place as a church, -[5059.32 --> 5061.00] which is a body together, -[5062.00 --> 5067.18] you are protected from the powers and principalities of this world. -[5067.94 --> 5072.92] This is holy ground where the kingdom of heaven has broken in -[5072.92 --> 5076.48] and redefined the very world you live in. -[5078.10 --> 5078.90] Jesus says, -[5079.04 --> 5081.46] where two or three are gathered in my name, -[5081.82 --> 5083.06] there I am among them. -[5083.36 --> 5087.32] Now, he's picking up on a long Jewish tradition -[5087.32 --> 5091.10] of needing two or three witnesses to establish the truth of something. -[5091.86 --> 5094.80] But the witnesses who establish the truth of something -[5094.80 --> 5098.26] here are establishing the truth that Jesus is among us. -[5098.56 --> 5099.64] The king is here. -[5099.64 --> 5105.38] We gather because he is here and he has called us to this place. -[5105.52 --> 5106.40] The king who has said, -[5106.74 --> 5109.54] all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. -[5110.26 --> 5114.20] The king who we read in Colossians is the image of the invisible God, -[5114.30 --> 5116.24] the firstborn over all creation. -[5116.40 --> 5117.24] For by him, -[5117.34 --> 5119.62] all things were created in heaven and on earth, -[5119.72 --> 5120.70] visible and invisible, -[5120.98 --> 5123.62] whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities. -[5123.94 --> 5127.38] All things were created through him and for him. -[5127.38 --> 5129.44] And he is before all things. -[5129.56 --> 5130.14] And in him, -[5130.20 --> 5131.64] all things hold together. -[5131.76 --> 5133.78] And he is the head of the body, -[5133.86 --> 5134.28] the church. -[5134.40 --> 5135.34] He is the beginning, -[5135.72 --> 5136.88] the firstborn from the dead, -[5137.24 --> 5138.42] that in everything, -[5138.70 --> 5140.52] he might be preeminent. -[5141.56 --> 5142.36] For in him, -[5142.68 --> 5145.22] all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell -[5145.22 --> 5147.66] and through him to reconcile to himself -[5147.66 --> 5148.66] all things, -[5148.78 --> 5150.34] whether on earth or in heaven, -[5150.72 --> 5153.08] making peace by the blood of the cross. -[5153.16 --> 5154.36] This is our king. -[5154.36 --> 5157.30] This is our king. -[5157.36 --> 5159.54] And he has called us to this place. -[5160.98 --> 5161.92] And in fact, -[5162.32 --> 5166.94] even as we stand now on embassy ground, -[5167.28 --> 5169.10] we long for that one day -[5169.10 --> 5171.60] where the kingdom of heaven will spill out -[5171.60 --> 5173.42] and cover the whole earth. -[5173.84 --> 5173.92] Right? -[5173.96 --> 5175.48] The final vision where we began -[5175.48 --> 5177.28] says in Revelation 19, -[5177.58 --> 5178.50] verse 16, -[5178.62 --> 5178.78] it says, -[5178.78 --> 5180.56] on his robe and on his thigh, -[5180.66 --> 5181.68] he has the name written, -[5181.86 --> 5182.88] King of Kings -[5182.88 --> 5185.24] and Lord of Lords. -[5185.34 --> 5186.68] The gathering of the church -[5186.68 --> 5188.82] is an outpost of heaven. -[5190.00 --> 5191.16] That's why we gather. -[5192.18 --> 5193.94] The local church is an embassy -[5193.94 --> 5195.50] of the high king. -[5196.58 --> 5196.70] Right? -[5196.70 --> 5197.60] This is why we gather. -[5197.84 --> 5198.82] And it's amazing -[5198.82 --> 5199.82] and mysterious -[5199.82 --> 5200.90] and miraculous. -[5200.90 --> 5202.14] And I pray -[5202.14 --> 5203.78] that it is compelling. -[5205.52 --> 5206.00] Right? -[5206.06 --> 5206.74] And as you take -[5206.74 --> 5208.00] one of these reasons -[5208.00 --> 5208.74] or as you take -[5208.74 --> 5209.46] all of them, -[5209.48 --> 5210.74] and I pray that you remember -[5210.74 --> 5211.66] even just one -[5211.66 --> 5213.36] and you have conversation this week -[5213.36 --> 5214.42] even about just one -[5214.42 --> 5215.38] when someone says, -[5215.52 --> 5216.46] why do you go to church? -[5216.62 --> 5217.62] Take one of these. -[5218.38 --> 5219.38] But I also pray -[5219.38 --> 5220.32] that it changes -[5220.32 --> 5221.72] the way you come. -[5222.22 --> 5223.36] It changes the way -[5223.36 --> 5224.52] you prepare to come. -[5225.02 --> 5225.12] Right? -[5225.18 --> 5226.34] And instead of -[5226.34 --> 5228.10] do we have to go to church? -[5228.34 --> 5228.56] Right? -[5228.56 --> 5229.48] Maybe it becomes -[5229.48 --> 5231.78] even angels want to be part -[5231.78 --> 5232.72] of what's happening here. -[5233.52 --> 5234.68] And so I'm going to go -[5234.68 --> 5237.10] with excitement and joy. -[5238.24 --> 5239.08] Instead of, -[5239.30 --> 5239.48] you know, -[5239.54 --> 5241.14] I don't get anything out of it. -[5241.26 --> 5241.50] Right? -[5241.52 --> 5242.24] This is a chance -[5242.24 --> 5243.66] to visibly lay down -[5243.66 --> 5244.44] your preferences -[5244.44 --> 5245.56] and your priorities -[5245.56 --> 5246.70] for the body. -[5246.70 --> 5247.20] Right? -[5247.44 --> 5248.66] And to worship -[5248.66 --> 5252.00] our shared head. -[5253.42 --> 5254.56] Instead of -[5254.56 --> 5255.94] maybe church is boring. -[5256.34 --> 5256.44] Right? -[5256.64 --> 5257.96] Gathering is the means -[5257.96 --> 5258.68] by which God -[5258.68 --> 5260.42] holds onto you -[5260.42 --> 5261.38] until the end. -[5265.52 --> 5266.70] I mentioned at the beginning -[5266.70 --> 5268.46] that here -[5268.46 --> 5269.32] in this -[5269.32 --> 5270.86] part of the world -[5270.86 --> 5271.88] we are living in a time -[5271.88 --> 5272.48] that is seeing -[5272.48 --> 5275.36] almost unprecedented -[5275.36 --> 5276.42] decline -[5276.42 --> 5278.12] in church -[5278.12 --> 5278.92] gathering -[5278.92 --> 5279.90] and participation -[5279.90 --> 5282.82] for a number of reasons. -[5284.54 --> 5285.18] And after -[5285.18 --> 5286.42] the COVID pandemic -[5286.42 --> 5287.60] those numbers -[5287.60 --> 5288.88] never picked back up -[5288.88 --> 5290.14] in our -[5290.14 --> 5292.48] North American West. -[5294.02 --> 5294.68] There's a book -[5294.68 --> 5295.54] that I read recently -[5295.54 --> 5296.66] called -[5296.66 --> 5297.90] The Great Dechurching -[5297.90 --> 5299.32] by Davis and Graham -[5299.32 --> 5299.92] and Burge -[5299.92 --> 5301.62] and they end -[5301.62 --> 5302.80] that with a note -[5302.80 --> 5303.40] of hope. -[5304.76 --> 5305.62] Because at the end -[5305.62 --> 5306.06] of their -[5306.06 --> 5307.96] sociological analysis -[5307.96 --> 5308.98] of what was going on -[5308.98 --> 5310.92] they also said -[5310.92 --> 5312.50] that there is -[5312.50 --> 5313.82] reason for -[5313.82 --> 5314.60] hope -[5314.60 --> 5315.10] because -[5315.10 --> 5316.92] of how -[5316.92 --> 5318.22] we can now -[5318.22 --> 5320.24] reimagine -[5320.24 --> 5321.02] and -[5321.02 --> 5322.36] re-bolster -[5322.36 --> 5323.62] our understanding -[5323.62 --> 5324.92] of why we must -[5324.92 --> 5325.66] gather. -[5326.94 --> 5327.70] And they said -[5327.70 --> 5328.68] in their interviewing -[5328.68 --> 5329.82] and work -[5329.82 --> 5330.98] that -[5330.98 --> 5332.72] it actually -[5332.72 --> 5334.18] wouldn't take -[5334.18 --> 5335.44] that much -[5335.44 --> 5336.42] in many cases -[5336.42 --> 5337.72] to get people -[5337.72 --> 5338.70] to come to church -[5338.70 --> 5339.78] or come back -[5339.78 --> 5340.30] to church. -[5341.10 --> 5341.88] In fact -[5341.88 --> 5342.36] they said -[5342.36 --> 5343.62] that 28% -[5343.62 --> 5344.10] of people -[5344.10 --> 5344.62] asked -[5344.62 --> 5346.44] would come back -[5346.44 --> 5347.54] only because -[5347.54 --> 5348.12] the desire -[5348.12 --> 5348.68] to make new -[5348.68 --> 5349.08] friends -[5349.08 --> 5350.08] was enough. -[5351.74 --> 5353.08] 17% -[5353.08 --> 5354.20] that all -[5354.20 --> 5354.78] it would take -[5354.78 --> 5355.24] is a friend -[5355.24 --> 5355.90] inviting them. -[5357.22 --> 5358.28] Another 17% -[5358.28 --> 5359.10] said that -[5359.10 --> 5359.64] what they're -[5359.64 --> 5360.12] looking for -[5360.12 --> 5360.46] is a good -[5360.46 --> 5360.94] community. -[5362.10 --> 5362.42] And if they -[5362.42 --> 5362.74] could find -[5362.74 --> 5363.36] that somewhere -[5363.36 --> 5364.16] that would -[5364.16 --> 5364.96] be reason enough. -[5364.96 --> 5366.32] 16% -[5366.32 --> 5367.18] said that -[5367.18 --> 5367.48] they would -[5367.48 --> 5367.88] go back -[5367.88 --> 5368.22] if their -[5368.22 --> 5368.52] kids -[5368.52 --> 5369.16] invited them. -[5370.72 --> 5371.70] Another 18% -[5371.70 --> 5372.16] said they -[5372.16 --> 5372.66] would go back -[5372.66 --> 5372.94] if their -[5372.94 --> 5373.34] spouse -[5373.34 --> 5374.68] invited them. -[5377.18 --> 5377.92] Here's the -[5377.92 --> 5378.54] reality we -[5378.54 --> 5379.22] find ourselves -[5379.22 --> 5379.54] in. -[5381.70 --> 5382.30] Sometimes -[5382.30 --> 5383.98] all you -[5383.98 --> 5384.64] have to do -[5384.64 --> 5385.84] is say -[5385.84 --> 5386.80] this is why -[5386.80 --> 5387.38] I gather. -[5389.42 --> 5390.08] And so -[5390.08 --> 5390.40] how would you -[5390.40 --> 5390.78] answer that -[5390.78 --> 5391.16] question? -[5393.14 --> 5394.10] And maybe -[5394.10 --> 5394.92] sometimes -[5394.92 --> 5395.40] all you -[5395.40 --> 5395.64] have to -[5395.64 --> 5395.92] do -[5395.92 --> 5397.18] is ask. -[5398.24 --> 5398.70] Would you -[5398.70 --> 5399.02] like to -[5399.02 --> 5399.28] gather? -[5400.84 --> 5401.42] Would you -[5401.42 --> 5401.86] like to -[5401.86 --> 5402.62] participate in -[5402.62 --> 5403.10] something that -[5403.10 --> 5404.18] even angels -[5404.18 --> 5405.42] long to -[5405.42 --> 5405.84] understand? -[5407.04 --> 5407.54] Would you -[5407.54 --> 5407.84] like to -[5407.84 --> 5408.18] know a -[5408.18 --> 5408.80] love that -[5408.80 --> 5409.40] changes -[5409.40 --> 5410.60] everything -[5410.60 --> 5411.36] about who -[5411.36 --> 5411.76] you are? -[5412.64 --> 5413.44] That's what's -[5413.44 --> 5414.12] happening here -[5414.12 --> 5414.72] and that -[5414.72 --> 5415.44] is why -[5415.44 --> 5416.12] we -[5416.12 --> 5417.08] gather. -[5417.72 --> 5418.02] And I -[5418.02 --> 5418.38] pray that -[5418.38 --> 5418.60] as we -[5418.60 --> 5419.14] begin this -[5419.14 --> 5419.50] ministry -[5419.50 --> 5420.28] year and -[5420.28 --> 5420.56] as we -[5420.56 --> 5420.98] see it -[5420.98 --> 5421.36] through -[5421.36 --> 5422.04] that -[5422.04 --> 5422.38] Lord -[5422.38 --> 5422.76] willing -[5422.76 --> 5423.12] we -[5423.12 --> 5423.48] would -[5423.48 --> 5424.04] gather -[5424.04 --> 5424.88] with -[5424.88 --> 5425.58] conviction -[5425.58 --> 5426.74] and energy -[5426.74 --> 5427.76] and boldness -[5427.76 --> 5428.04] and that -[5428.04 --> 5428.58] our gathering -[5428.58 --> 5429.34] here would -[5429.34 --> 5430.08] spill out -[5430.08 --> 5431.12] into gatherings -[5431.12 --> 5432.08] every other -[5432.08 --> 5433.06] day of the -[5433.06 --> 5433.34] week. -[5433.68 --> 5434.56] Because this -[5434.56 --> 5435.20] is how -[5435.20 --> 5435.98] God is -[5435.98 --> 5436.64] making himself -[5436.64 --> 5437.36] known here -[5437.36 --> 5439.04] and out -[5439.04 --> 5439.28] there. -[5440.80 --> 5441.54] And that's -[5441.54 --> 5441.92] what we want, -[5441.98 --> 5442.12] right? -[5443.30 --> 5443.58] Amen. -[5443.72 --> 5444.08] Thank you. -[5444.44 --> 5444.96] That was the -[5444.96 --> 5445.52] right time to -[5445.52 --> 5446.00] say amen. -[5446.50 --> 5446.94] And I'm -[5446.94 --> 5447.28] going to echo -[5447.28 --> 5447.54] it. -[5448.06 --> 5448.30] Amen. -[5448.94 --> 5449.34] Let's pray -[5449.34 --> 5449.64] together. -[5451.36 --> 5452.20] God you -[5452.20 --> 5453.20] are good -[5453.20 --> 5454.12] and so -[5454.12 --> 5454.86] gather us -[5454.86 --> 5455.76] together. -[5456.26 --> 5456.82] God you -[5456.82 --> 5457.26] are good -[5457.26 --> 5457.58] and you -[5457.58 --> 5457.90] have -[5457.90 --> 5458.30] gathered -[5458.30 --> 5458.74] us -[5458.74 --> 5459.52] together. -[5460.66 --> 5461.16] And so -[5461.16 --> 5461.48] I pray -[5461.48 --> 5461.96] now that -[5461.96 --> 5462.34] as we -[5462.34 --> 5462.84] move to -[5462.84 --> 5463.34] the table -[5463.34 --> 5464.56] that you -[5464.56 --> 5464.76] would -[5464.76 --> 5465.26] continue -[5465.26 --> 5465.96] this -[5465.96 --> 5466.88] gathering. -[5467.62 --> 5468.10] That we -[5468.10 --> 5468.44] would move -[5468.44 --> 5468.70] to the -[5468.70 --> 5469.24] table and -[5469.24 --> 5470.14] receive from -[5470.14 --> 5471.04] you the -[5471.04 --> 5471.88] grace of -[5471.88 --> 5472.72] your word -[5472.72 --> 5473.56] made -[5473.56 --> 5474.38] tangible. -[5475.62 --> 5476.34] That we -[5476.34 --> 5476.66] would move -[5476.66 --> 5476.92] to the -[5476.92 --> 5477.44] table and -[5477.44 --> 5477.66] that we -[5477.66 --> 5478.22] would receive -[5478.22 --> 5478.84] from you -[5478.84 --> 5480.36] the opportunity -[5480.36 --> 5481.06] to grow -[5481.06 --> 5481.48] by the -[5481.48 --> 5482.02] truth of -[5482.02 --> 5482.56] the gospel -[5482.56 --> 5483.30] as we -[5483.30 --> 5483.98] taste and -[5483.98 --> 5484.64] see that -[5484.64 --> 5485.48] you are -[5485.48 --> 5486.02] good. -[5487.40 --> 5488.00] God this -[5488.00 --> 5488.40] day, -[5488.72 --> 5490.68] this gathering -[5490.68 --> 5491.74] is more -[5491.74 --> 5492.44] than an -[5492.44 --> 5492.86] event. -[5493.12 --> 5493.56] It is the -[5493.56 --> 5494.68] body doing -[5494.68 --> 5495.18] what the -[5495.18 --> 5496.24] body does. -[5496.42 --> 5496.72] And so -[5496.72 --> 5497.40] meet us -[5497.40 --> 5498.22] now at -[5498.22 --> 5499.06] your feast -[5499.06 --> 5499.74] Lord Jesus. -[5500.48 --> 5500.88] We pray -[5500.88 --> 5501.26] this in -[5501.26 --> 5501.60] your name -[5501.60 --> 5501.96] alone. -[5502.80 --> 5503.12] Amen. -[5503.12 --> 5503.20] Amen. -[5503.20 --> 5508.16] as we -[5508.16 --> 5508.84] come to -[5508.84 --> 5509.26] the table -[5509.26 --> 5509.64] together -[5509.64 --> 5510.04] we have -[5510.04 --> 5510.48] some -[5510.48 --> 5511.42] liturgy -[5511.42 --> 5511.74] that we -[5511.74 --> 5512.16] will move -[5512.16 --> 5512.48] through -[5512.48 --> 5514.10] and in -[5514.10 --> 5514.36] moving -[5514.36 --> 5514.76] through -[5514.76 --> 5515.78] this -[5515.78 --> 5516.52] liturgy -[5516.52 --> 5520.36] we will -[5520.36 --> 5520.84] have words -[5520.84 --> 5521.38] to speak -[5521.38 --> 5522.64] both for -[5522.64 --> 5523.44] you together -[5523.44 --> 5525.04] and to -[5525.04 --> 5525.84] reflect on -[5525.84 --> 5526.32] as they -[5526.32 --> 5527.16] are spoken -[5527.16 --> 5527.96] over us. -[5528.58 --> 5528.96] So I -[5528.96 --> 5529.40] invite you -[5529.40 --> 5530.02] to join -[5530.02 --> 5530.52] in this -[5530.52 --> 5531.00] liturgy -[5531.00 --> 5531.86] of the -[5531.86 --> 5532.14] table. -[5532.30 --> 5532.82] Lift up -[5532.82 --> 5533.48] your hearts. -[5536.08 --> 5536.82] Let us -[5536.82 --> 5537.32] give thanks -[5537.32 --> 5537.66] to the -[5537.66 --> 5538.08] Lord our -[5538.08 --> 5538.42] God. -[5541.00 --> 5541.58] Let's -[5541.58 --> 5542.12] pray together. -[5543.22 --> 5544.20] With joy -[5544.20 --> 5544.88] we praise -[5544.88 --> 5545.30] you -[5545.30 --> 5545.80] gracious -[5545.80 --> 5546.30] God -[5546.30 --> 5547.18] for you -[5547.18 --> 5547.40] have -[5547.40 --> 5547.86] created -[5547.86 --> 5548.34] heaven -[5548.34 --> 5549.48] and earth -[5549.48 --> 5550.24] and have -[5550.24 --> 5550.94] made us -[5550.94 --> 5551.52] in your -[5551.52 --> 5551.94] image -[5551.94 --> 5552.46] and kept -[5552.46 --> 5552.90] covenant -[5552.90 --> 5553.46] with us -[5553.46 --> 5553.86] even -[5553.86 --> 5554.72] when we -[5554.72 --> 5555.26] fell into -[5555.26 --> 5555.54] sin. -[5556.40 --> 5556.94] We give -[5556.94 --> 5557.42] you thanks -[5557.42 --> 5557.94] for Jesus -[5557.94 --> 5558.42] Christ -[5558.42 --> 5559.00] who by -[5559.00 --> 5559.76] his life -[5559.76 --> 5560.16] death -[5560.16 --> 5560.64] and -[5560.64 --> 5561.12] resurrection -[5561.12 --> 5561.88] open to -[5561.88 --> 5562.40] us the -[5562.40 --> 5563.04] way of -[5563.04 --> 5563.54] life -[5563.54 --> 5564.58] everlasting. -[5565.42 --> 5565.74] Amen. -[5567.86 --> 5568.48] Our -[5568.48 --> 5569.32] Lord Jesus -[5569.32 --> 5570.22] before he -[5570.22 --> 5570.60] suffered -[5570.60 --> 5571.42] gave us -[5571.42 --> 5571.74] this -[5571.74 --> 5572.30] memorial -[5572.30 --> 5573.22] of his -[5573.22 --> 5573.84] sacrifice -[5573.84 --> 5574.64] until he -[5574.64 --> 5575.32] comes again. -[5576.26 --> 5576.50] And the -[5576.50 --> 5577.04] Lord Jesus -[5577.04 --> 5577.62] on the -[5577.62 --> 5578.04] night that -[5578.04 --> 5578.64] he was -[5578.64 --> 5579.14] betrayed -[5579.14 --> 5580.26] took bread -[5580.26 --> 5581.00] and when -[5581.00 --> 5581.20] he had -[5581.20 --> 5581.90] given thanks -[5581.90 --> 5583.00] he broke -[5583.00 --> 5583.36] it and -[5583.36 --> 5583.88] said this -[5583.88 --> 5584.52] is my -[5584.52 --> 5584.96] body -[5584.96 --> 5585.58] which is -[5585.58 --> 5586.04] for you. -[5586.66 --> 5587.28] Do this -[5587.28 --> 5588.10] in remembrance -[5588.10 --> 5589.20] of me. -[5590.42 --> 5591.00] And in -[5591.00 --> 5591.36] the same -[5591.36 --> 5592.10] way he -[5592.10 --> 5592.50] took the -[5592.50 --> 5592.88] cup -[5592.88 --> 5594.18] after supper -[5594.18 --> 5595.08] saying this -[5595.08 --> 5595.90] cup is -[5595.90 --> 5596.32] the new -[5596.32 --> 5596.68] covenant -[5596.68 --> 5597.20] in my -[5597.20 --> 5597.56] blood. -[5598.64 --> 5599.20] Do this -[5599.20 --> 5599.88] whenever you -[5599.88 --> 5600.40] drink it -[5600.40 --> 5601.26] in remembrance -[5601.26 --> 5602.18] of me. -[5603.86 --> 5604.82] For whenever -[5604.82 --> 5605.36] you eat -[5605.36 --> 5606.06] this bread -[5606.06 --> 5607.12] and drink -[5607.12 --> 5607.92] this cup -[5607.92 --> 5609.04] you proclaim -[5609.04 --> 5609.78] the Lord's -[5609.78 --> 5610.10] death -[5610.10 --> 5611.00] until he -[5611.00 --> 5611.46] comes -[5611.46 --> 5612.26] again. -[5612.92 --> 5613.58] This -[5613.58 --> 5614.30] is the -[5614.30 --> 5614.74] mystery -[5614.74 --> 5615.44] of our -[5615.44 --> 5615.82] faith. -[5620.10 --> 5620.70] Your -[5620.70 --> 5621.22] resurrection -[5621.22 --> 5622.10] we affirm -[5622.10 --> 5622.82] with joy. -[5623.58 --> 5623.82] Your -[5623.82 --> 5624.22] coming -[5624.22 --> 5624.96] we await -[5624.96 --> 5625.54] with hope. -[5626.34 --> 5627.16] Glory be -[5627.16 --> 5627.64] to you -[5627.64 --> 5628.34] Lord Jesus. -[5629.50 --> 5630.08] Church -[5630.08 --> 5630.40] family -[5630.40 --> 5631.38] the Lord -[5631.38 --> 5632.22] has prepared -[5632.22 --> 5632.78] his table -[5632.78 --> 5633.22] for all -[5633.22 --> 5633.70] who love -[5633.70 --> 5634.46] him and -[5634.46 --> 5635.00] trust in -[5635.00 --> 5635.74] him alone -[5635.74 --> 5636.22] for their -[5636.22 --> 5636.68] salvation. -[5637.38 --> 5637.70] And so -[5637.70 --> 5638.32] come to -[5638.32 --> 5638.92] this table -[5638.92 --> 5639.44] you who -[5639.44 --> 5640.00] have much -[5640.00 --> 5640.60] faith and -[5640.60 --> 5640.94] you who -[5640.94 --> 5641.26] would like -[5641.26 --> 5641.56] to have -[5641.56 --> 5641.84] more. -[5642.26 --> 5642.70] Come to -[5642.70 --> 5643.30] this table -[5643.30 --> 5643.84] you who -[5643.84 --> 5644.28] have been -[5644.28 --> 5644.62] to the -[5644.62 --> 5645.00] sacrament -[5645.00 --> 5646.04] often and -[5646.04 --> 5646.46] you who -[5646.46 --> 5646.92] have not -[5646.92 --> 5647.56] been for -[5647.56 --> 5648.02] a long -[5648.02 --> 5648.70] time. -[5648.84 --> 5649.22] Come to -[5649.22 --> 5649.70] this table -[5649.70 --> 5650.20] you who -[5650.20 --> 5650.72] have tried -[5650.72 --> 5651.24] to follow -[5651.24 --> 5652.26] Jesus and -[5652.26 --> 5652.66] you who -[5652.66 --> 5653.16] have failed. -[5653.56 --> 5654.08] Come to -[5654.08 --> 5654.78] this table -[5654.78 --> 5655.60] because Jesus -[5655.60 --> 5656.50] Christ is -[5656.50 --> 5656.92] raised. -[5657.38 --> 5658.00] Come if -[5658.00 --> 5658.30] you are -[5658.30 --> 5659.10] here with -[5659.10 --> 5659.64] us in -[5659.64 --> 5660.44] person or -[5660.44 --> 5660.80] if you -[5660.80 --> 5661.08] are at -[5661.08 --> 5661.84] home and -[5661.84 --> 5662.28] online. -[5662.50 --> 5663.08] Come because -[5663.08 --> 5663.88] it is Christ -[5663.88 --> 5664.96] who invites -[5664.96 --> 5665.52] us to -[5665.52 --> 5666.56] meet him -[5666.56 --> 5667.34] here. -[5668.22 --> 5668.64] The gifts -[5668.64 --> 5669.20] of God -[5669.20 --> 5669.86] for the -[5669.86 --> 5670.76] people of -[5670.76 --> 5671.10] God. -[5672.22 --> 5672.60] Amen. -[5672.60 --> 5674.06] As we -[5674.06 --> 5674.92] come to -[5674.92 --> 5675.46] the table -[5675.46 --> 5675.98] we do -[5675.98 --> 5676.94] so here -[5676.94 --> 5677.12] at -[5677.12 --> 5677.48] Emmanuel -[5677.48 --> 5677.90] in a -[5677.90 --> 5678.24] particular -[5678.24 --> 5678.64] way. -[5678.76 --> 5679.10] We come -[5679.10 --> 5680.04] up from -[5680.04 --> 5680.52] our seats -[5680.52 --> 5680.88] and we -[5680.88 --> 5681.34] gather in -[5681.34 --> 5681.82] a circle -[5681.82 --> 5682.56] around the -[5682.56 --> 5683.54] table and -[5683.54 --> 5683.80] then the -[5683.80 --> 5684.32] elements will -[5684.32 --> 5685.00] be passed -[5685.00 --> 5685.66] around. -[5686.16 --> 5686.52] As you -[5686.52 --> 5687.14] pass the -[5687.14 --> 5687.84] bread we -[5687.84 --> 5688.32] invite you -[5688.32 --> 5688.90] to say to -[5688.90 --> 5689.30] the person -[5689.30 --> 5689.88] beside you -[5689.88 --> 5690.44] the body -[5690.44 --> 5691.04] of Christ -[5691.04 --> 5691.66] given for -[5691.66 --> 5691.92] you. -[5692.44 --> 5692.98] As you -[5692.98 --> 5693.52] pass the -[5693.52 --> 5694.10] juice we -[5694.10 --> 5694.52] invite you -[5694.52 --> 5694.90] to say -[5694.90 --> 5695.68] the blood -[5695.68 --> 5696.36] of Christ -[5696.36 --> 5697.14] shed for -[5697.14 --> 5697.38] you. -[5697.38 --> 5699.16] As we -[5699.16 --> 5700.42] come we -[5700.42 --> 5700.64] are going -[5700.64 --> 5701.14] to first -[5701.14 --> 5702.04] come and -[5702.04 --> 5702.72] welcome those -[5702.72 --> 5703.10] who are going -[5703.10 --> 5703.66] to serve -[5703.66 --> 5704.62] for us. -[5704.74 --> 5705.02] We have -[5705.02 --> 5705.62] elders, the -[5705.62 --> 5706.14] worship leaders -[5706.14 --> 5706.42] and the -[5706.42 --> 5707.58] volunteers who -[5707.58 --> 5707.86] are going to -[5707.86 --> 5708.28] make that -[5708.28 --> 5709.00] possible. -[5709.18 --> 5709.44] They will -[5709.44 --> 5709.80] come up -[5709.80 --> 5710.12] first. -[5710.22 --> 5710.44] We will -[5710.44 --> 5711.04] serve them -[5711.04 --> 5711.64] and then -[5711.64 --> 5712.12] the worship -[5712.12 --> 5712.60] team will -[5712.60 --> 5713.10] lead us in -[5713.10 --> 5713.78] some songs -[5713.78 --> 5714.42] as we go -[5714.42 --> 5714.92] through and -[5714.92 --> 5715.62] then ushers -[5715.62 --> 5716.78] will indicate -[5716.78 --> 5717.60] when it is -[5717.60 --> 5718.14] your turn to -[5718.14 --> 5718.60] come to the -[5718.60 --> 5718.82] front. -[5719.32 --> 5720.20] If for any -[5720.20 --> 5720.78] reason you -[5720.78 --> 5721.36] are unable -[5721.36 --> 5722.64] or undesiring -[5722.64 --> 5723.18] to come to -[5723.18 --> 5723.70] the front but -[5723.70 --> 5724.26] would like to -[5724.26 --> 5724.84] receive the -[5724.84 --> 5725.30] supper please -[5725.30 --> 5725.92] just indicate -[5725.92 --> 5726.68] that to -[5726.68 --> 5727.40] the usher -[5727.40 --> 5728.04] and they -[5728.04 --> 5728.46] will meet -[5728.46 --> 5729.24] you where -[5729.24 --> 5729.64] you're at -[5729.64 --> 5730.10] and serve -[5730.10 --> 5730.76] you in -[5730.76 --> 5731.26] your seats. -[5732.16 --> 5732.70] For those -[5732.70 --> 5733.08] who need -[5733.08 --> 5733.88] it there is -[5733.88 --> 5734.50] gluten-free -[5734.50 --> 5735.42] bread available -[5735.42 --> 5735.78] on the -[5735.78 --> 5736.10] trays. -[5736.64 --> 5738.02] If available -[5738.02 --> 5738.42] on the -[5738.42 --> 5739.14] trays isn't -[5739.14 --> 5739.90] sufficient for -[5739.90 --> 5740.42] your needs -[5740.42 --> 5741.34] let us know -[5741.34 --> 5741.70] and we have -[5741.70 --> 5742.46] a little tray -[5742.46 --> 5743.00] off to the -[5743.00 --> 5743.66] side here as -[5743.66 --> 5744.08] well that you -[5744.08 --> 5744.46] can take -[5744.46 --> 5745.46] from in -[5745.46 --> 5745.82] that way. -[5746.92 --> 5747.16] Can I -[5747.16 --> 5747.50] invite the -[5747.50 --> 5748.52] leaders to -[5748.52 --> 5749.16] come forward -[5749.16 --> 5750.24] and receive -[5750.24 --> 5750.74] the supper -[5750.74 --> 5751.64] together? -[5755.92 --> 5756.02] think -[5785.92 --> 5815.90] Thank you. -[5815.92 --> 5845.90] Thank you. -[5845.92 --> 5875.90] Thank you. -[5875.92 --> 5905.90] Thank you. -[5905.92 --> 5935.90] Thank you. -[5935.92 --> 5950.60] Speak, O Lord, as we come to you to receive the word of your holy word. -[5950.60 --> 5964.60] Take your truth, plant it deep in us, shape and fashion us in your lovingness. -[5964.60 --> 5972.60] That the light of Christ might be seen today. -[5972.60 --> 5980.60] In our acts of love and our deeds of faith. -[5980.60 --> 5996.60] Speak, O Lord, and fulfill in us all your purposes for your holy word. -[5996.60 --> 6010.60] Teach us, Lord, teach us, Lord, full obedience. -[6010.60 --> 6018.60] Holy remembrance, holy remembrance, true humility. -[6018.60 --> 6032.60] Take our hearts, Lord, and our actions in the radiance of your glory. -[6032.60 --> 6036.60] God's our faith, God's our faith, God's our faith. -[6036.60 --> 6048.60] God's our faith to see your majestic love and authority. -[6048.60 --> 6056.60] Words of God, that can never fail. -[6056.60 --> 6064.60] That can truly prevail over unto you. -[6064.60 --> 6072.60] God's grace, O Lord, and our hearts, and our hearts, and our hearts, and our hearts, and our hearts. -[6072.60 --> 6090.60] Executive order of your life, always, and our hearts, and our hearts, and your hearts, and our hearts, and our hearts, and our hearts. -[6090.60 --> 6092.60] from the dawn -[6120.60 --> 6123.50] till your church -[6123.50 --> 6124.48] is built -[6124.48 --> 6126.48] and the earth -[6126.48 --> 6128.36] is built -[6128.36 --> 6129.82] with your -[6129.82 --> 6132.10] glory -[6132.10 --> 6133.92] in you -[6150.60 --> 6176.34] o deep -[6176.34 --> 6180.68] the Father's mouth for us. -[6180.68 --> 6186.26] How vast beyond all measure -[6186.26 --> 6193.62] that we should give his only Son -[6193.62 --> 6199.38] to make our riches treasure. -[6199.38 --> 6207.72] How great the pain of searing loss -[6207.72 --> 6214.34] the Father turns his face away -[6214.34 --> 6221.30] as wounds which bar the chosen one -[6221.30 --> 6226.82] bring many sons to glory. -[6229.38 --> 6231.38] Amen. -[6238.60 --> 6244.82] Behold the man upon the cross -[6244.82 --> 6250.72] I sit upon his shoulders -[6250.72 --> 6257.78] Ashamed I hear my mocking voice -[6257.78 --> 6264.18] Called out among the strong words -[6264.18 --> 6270.68] It was my sin that held him there -[6270.68 --> 6275.78] Until it was accomplished -[6275.78 --> 6282.78] His dying breath has brought me life -[6282.78 --> 6288.78] I know that it is finished -[6288.78 --> 6306.18] I will not boast in anything -[6306.18 --> 6313.18] No gifts, no power, no wisdom -[6313.18 --> 6321.18] But I will boast in Jesus Christ -[6321.18 --> 6325.18] His death and resurrection -[6325.18 --> 6332.18] Why should I think of his reward -[6332.18 --> 6339.18] I cannot give an answer -[6339.18 --> 6346.18] But this I know with all my heart -[6346.18 --> 6353.18] His wounds have paid my ransom -[6353.18 --> 6358.18] Why should I gain from his reward -[6358.18 --> 6365.18] I cannot give an answer -[6365.18 --> 6371.18] But this I know with all my heart -[6371.18 --> 6373.18] His wounds have paid my ransom -[6373.18 --> 6380.18] His wounds have paid my ransom -[6380.18 --> 6381.18] I can't give an answer -[6381.18 --> 6382.18] I know with all my heart -[6382.18 --> 6383.18] My heart is a blessing -[6383.18 --> 6384.18] I know with all my heart -[6384.18 --> 6385.18] I can give an answer -[6385.18 --> 6387.18] I can give an answer -[6387.18 --> 6389.18] I can give an answer -[6389.18 --> 6395.18] I can give an answer -[6395.18 --> 6397.18] But if I can give an answer -[6397.18 --> 6400.18] Like a孩 -[6400.18 --> 6401.18] I remain witted -[6401.18 --> 6403.18] I think I'll make one of the best -[6403.18 --> 6410.18] I will not ignore -[6410.18 --> 6437.10] Before the throne of God above, I have a strong and perfect queen. -[6437.10 --> 6447.48] The great high priest whose name is love, whoever lives and leads for me. -[6447.48 --> 6457.94] My name is written on its hands, my name is written on its heart. -[6457.94 --> 6468.38] I know that while in heaven he stands, no tongue can in heaven's deep heart. -[6468.38 --> 6473.38] No tongue can live weak as deep heart. -[6473.38 --> 6491.38] When Satan tends me to despair and tells me of the guilt within, -[6491.38 --> 6502.64] a word I look and see in there, who made a death of all my sin. -[6502.98 --> 6512.38] Because the sinless Savior died, my sinful soul is counted free. -[6512.38 --> 6523.54] For God the justice satisfied, to look on him and pardon me. -[6523.54 --> 6530.54] To look on him and pardon me. -[6530.54 --> 6537.54] For God the justice of God above, I have a strong and perfect love. -[6537.54 --> 6547.54] Behold him there, the risen land, my perfect spotless righteousness, -[6547.54 --> 6558.54] the great unchangeable I am, the King of glory and of grace. -[6558.54 --> 6563.54] For God the justice of God above, I have a strong and perfect love. -[6563.54 --> 6579.62] For God the justice of God above, I have a strong and perfect love. -[6579.62 --> 6585.58] With Christ my Savior and my God -[6585.58 --> 6591.12] I'll make himself I cannot die -[6591.12 --> 6596.60] My soul is purchased by his blood -[6596.60 --> 6602.10] My life is hid with Christ on high -[6602.10 --> 6607.82] With Christ my Savior and my God -[6607.82 --> 6614.70] With Christ my Savior and my God -[6637.82 --> 6665.26] All these pieces broken and scattered -[6665.26 --> 6672.14] In mercy gathered, mended and whole -[6672.14 --> 6679.02] Empty-handed but not forsaken -[6679.02 --> 6685.90] I've been set free, I've been set free -[6685.90 --> 6694.46] The amazing grace of sweet the sound -[6694.46 --> 6699.66] That saved a wretch like me -[6699.66 --> 6704.54] Oh, I once was lost -[6704.54 --> 6708.04] But now I am found -[6708.04 --> 6712.22] It's fine but now I see -[6712.22 --> 6717.10] Oh, I can see you now -[6717.10 --> 6726.48] Oh, I can see the love in your eyes -[6726.48 --> 6731.10] Laying yourself down -[6731.10 --> 6737.98] Raising up the moment -[6737.98 --> 6740.86] To die -[6740.86 --> 6756.86] You take our failure -[6756.86 --> 6760.36] You take our weakness -[6760.36 --> 6767.24] You set your treasure in charge of the flame -[6767.24 --> 6771.12] So, I'll take this while, Lord -[6771.12 --> 6774.12] I'll be your best soul -[6774.12 --> 6777.12] The world will see -[6777.12 --> 6781.00] Your life in me -[6781.00 --> 6785.42] Amazing grace -[6785.42 --> 6788.30] How sweet the sound -[6788.30 --> 6788.80] How sweet the sound -[6788.80 --> 6793.30] That saved a wretch like me -[6793.30 --> 6798.68] Oh, I once was lost -[6798.68 --> 6802.10] But now I am found -[6802.10 --> 6806.48] Just by the love now I see -[6806.48 --> 6810.98] Oh, I can see you now -[6810.98 --> 6820.62] Oh, I can see the love in your eyes -[6820.62 --> 6824.98] Laying yourself down -[6824.98 --> 6833.24] Praising up the broken to the earth -[6833.24 --> 6863.22] Oh, my God. -[6863.24 --> 6873.24] Amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me. -[6873.94 --> 6886.30] Oh, I once was lost, but now I am found, was mine, but now I see. -[6886.30 --> 6912.30] Oh, I once was lost, but now I am found, was mine, but now I see. -[6912.30 --> 6917.30] Oh, I can see you now. -[6919.30 --> 6925.30] Oh, I can see the love in your eyes. -[6925.30 --> 6931.30] Lay yourself down. -[6931.30 --> 6961.30] -[6961.30 --> 6967.30] Open to my heart. -[6967.30 --> 6996.88] The final part of why we gather is so that we can scatter in the power of God's name and with the truth of the gospel to proclaim. -[6997.88 --> 7002.90] But as we have met God in this place, his promise is that he goes with us. -[7003.40 --> 7008.30] And so receive the blessing of our God for the journey of faith ahead. -[7008.30 --> 7011.68] God go before you to lead you. -[7012.30 --> 7014.46] God go behind you to protect you. -[7014.82 --> 7017.08] God go beneath you to support you. -[7017.38 --> 7020.32] And God goes beside you to befriend you. -[7020.92 --> 7022.22] Do not be afraid. -[7022.72 --> 7024.62] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[7024.74 --> 7026.38] Do not be afraid. -[7026.96 --> 7031.30] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[7031.72 --> 7032.66] Amen. -[7032.66 --> 7032.90] Amen. -[7062.66 --> 7068.00] And we pray that all unity may one day be restored. -[7070.70 --> 7076.34] And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love. -[7076.34 --> 7081.38] Yes, they'll know we are Christians by our love. -[7084.00 --> 7087.20] We will walk with each other. -[7087.36 --> 7089.70] We will walk hand in hand. -[7089.70 --> 7092.60] We will walk with each other. -[7092.74 --> 7095.08] We will walk hand in hand. -[7095.08 --> 7101.08] And together we'll strengthen it that God is in our land. -[7103.42 --> 7108.90] And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love. -[7109.04 --> 7113.38] Yes, they'll know we are Christians by our love. -[7113.38 --> 7119.66] We will walk with each other. -[7119.76 --> 7122.26] We will walk side by side. -[7122.26 --> 7125.06] We will walk with each other. -[7125.22 --> 7127.64] We will walk side by side. -[7127.76 --> 7133.76] And we'll guard each man's dignity and save each man's pride. -[7133.76 --> 7141.14] And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love. -[7141.14 --> 7145.14] Yes, they'll know we are Christians by our love. -[7145.14 --> 7151.36] Yes, they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love. -[7151.36 --> 7152.98] We will walk with each other. -[7152.98 --> 7159.62] And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love. -[7159.62 --> 7167.12] And all praise to the Spirit who makes us one. -[7167.12 --> 7173.12] And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love. -[7173.12 --> 7181.12] Yes, they'll know we are Christians by our love. -[7181.12 --> 7186.62] And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love. -[7186.62 --> 7193.62] Yes, they'll know we are Christians by our love. -[7216.62 --> 7223.62] They'll know we are Christians by our love. -[7223.62 --> 7229.62] And they'll know we are Christians by our love. -[7229.62 --> 7235.62] And they'll know we are Christians by our love. -[7235.62 --> 7250.62] We are Christians by our love. -[7250.62 --> 7280.60] Thank you. -[7280.62 --> 7310.60] Thank you. -[7310.62 --> 7340.60] Thank you. -[7340.62 --> 7370.60] Thank you. -[7370.62 --> 7372.62] Thank you. -[7400.62 --> 7402.62] Thank you. -[7402.62 --> 7404.62] Thank you. -[7404.62 --> 7406.62] Thank you. -[7406.62 --> 7410.62] Thank you. -[7410.62 --> 7411.62] Have a good day. -[7411.62 --> 7412.62] Thanks. -[7412.62 --> 7414.62] Thank you. -[7422.62 --> 7424.62] Thank you. -[7424.62 --> 7426.62] Thank you. -[7426.62 --> 7427.62] Thank you. -[7442.62 --> 7472.60] Thank you. -[7472.62 --> 7502.60] Thank you. -[7502.62 --> 7532.60] Thank you. -[7532.62 --> 7562.60] Thank you. -[7562.62 --> 7592.60] Thank you. -[7592.62 --> 7622.60] Thank you. -[7622.62 --> 7652.60] Thank you. -[7652.62 --> 7682.60] Thank you. -[7682.62 --> 7712.60] Thank you. -[7712.62 --> 7742.60] Thank you. -[7742.62 --> 7772.60] Thank you. -[7772.62 --> 7802.60] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, Sep 29, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, Sep 29, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 829f1a2ea0e38ac4a92cc9703dcbde937cabd2ff..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, Sep 29, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,83 +0,0 @@ -• Discussion of a song with actions and words being sung -• Reference to a podcast about the Israelites and the promised land -• Reflection on forgetting God's presence in times of uncertainty or difficulty -• Prayer for spiritual eyes to see God's control over the world -• Invitation to stand and sing "Lord, I Need You" -• Song lyrics and worship -• Need for God's presence and guidance in daily life -• Prayer for humility and recognition of God's greatness and faithfulness -• Trust in God's power and provision through Jesus Christ -• Worship and adoration of God, acknowledging His holiness and sovereignty -• Offering collection, noting the specific recipients and purpose -• Scripture reading from Psalm 121, emphasizing dependence on God's help and rescue -• Children will meet in the multipurpose room after exiting the sanctuary -• The Bible is discussed in children's worship, including its importance and content -• A prayer is given for the children's blessing -• The church family prays together for various topics, including reconciliation, those affected by war and natural disasters, health issues, and upcoming provincial elections -• Introduction of a three-word mission statement: "Gather, Grow, Go" -• Exploring the meaning of "Grow" in biblical context -• Exploring the meaning of "Go" in biblical context and what it means to be sent by God -• Discussing examples from Scripture where God sends individuals on missions (e.g. Moses, Isaiah, Jeremiah) -• Emphasizing that being a sent people is not just for missionaries, but a calling for all Christians -• Introducing the concept of "going" as a part of the church's mission and purpose -• The speaker emphasizes that being sent and going on mission is not just about where or what one does, but rather how one is in relationship with God -• The church's mission is indivisible and exists in the middle space of gathering, growing, and going -• The speaker highlights the importance of gathering as a community to grow and be equipped for going out into the world -• Abraham's call in Genesis 12 is cited as an example of how going on mission is not just about individual action, but about being part of a larger story of God's blessing and redemption -• Going on mission involves challenging cultural norms and institutions, which can lead to opposition and conflict -• The speaker emphasizes the importance of living out one's faith with gentleness and respect, even in the face of criticism or adversity. -• The church is called to be a blessing that brings peace and well-being to everyone -• Being a priest means being set apart for God's purposes, mediating God's presence, and embodying holiness -• Priests are responsible for making others holy by representing God and bringing His presence to the people -• This concept of priesthood carries forward from Israel to the church, where all believers are called to be priests and represent God in the world. -• The congregation is a spiritual house built up as a holy priesthood to offer sacrifices acceptable to God. -• The calling of all people is to be a priest, set apart in holiness to mediate God's presence and blessing for the sake of others. -• The role of priests is to reveal God's presence and bring it into the world, shining their light to guide others like a lighthouse guides sailors. -• The congregation is exhorted to gather, grow, and go, using their role as priests to spread God's message and presence. -• God's plan for Israel to be a lighthouse for the nations, showing who he is and what he's like -• Christians are called to continue this role as lighthouses, reflecting God's holiness and love -• Our lives are meant to shine God's light for others to see, guiding them to safety in him -• We bring God's presence and blessing to the world, helping others find their way to him -• The image of light is used throughout Scripture, with Jesus being the ultimate fulfillment as the light of the world -• The importance of letting one's light shine before others -• The connection between the gospel message and God's power unto salvation -• The role of Christ in God's word and his presence in all saving power -• The transformative power of the truth that Jesus lived and died for us -• The availability of this power to believers through their speaking, declaring, and proclaiming -• The incarnation of the gospel message in Jesus and its manifestation in the life and actions of believers as part of the church -• The bipolar orientation of the church, with both inward and outward facing aspects that are connected and strengthen each other -• The missionary identity of the church is rooted in the Great Commission to spread the gospel to all nations -• The importance of spreading the light of the gospel into darkness and defeating the dark with the light -• Jesus' call for his disciples to be salt and light to contrast the world's decay and darkness -• The church as a community that lives in contrast to the world, shining its light through good deeds and glorifying God -• The purpose of going out is not just for contrasting but also for revealing and making known the gospel -• The kingdom values of God are revealed in Romans 12, which calls for transformation by the renewing of one's mind. -• Conforming to the world's ideas is contrasted with being transformed by God's truth. -• The non-conformist idea and reflection of the church creates a counter-cultural reality that manifests the coming of the kingdom. -• Mission is the life of this contrast community lived out, demonstrating God's creational intent for human life and redemption of all history. -• Philippians 2 describes Christ Jesus' attitude as an example to follow, emphasizing humility and obedience. -• The church is called to reflect Christ's character in its behavior, shining like stars in the sky through holding out the word of life. -• The church should be a vibrant and life-giving community that stands out from the world. -• The church's mission is to offer the beauty of the gospel and God's life and salvation to those around them. -• The church's light and love should stand out and draw others to hope found in God. -• Christians are sent to bless, reveal God's presence, show the way back to the Father, and be a contrast to the world. -• The church's actions should inspire people to ask about their God. -• The speaker is sent by God and has a calling to go -• Saying "amen" confirms going with God and being guided by the Holy Spirit -• The power of the Holy Spirit guides individuals in their journey -• True life is found through following God's guidance and will -• The speaker, along with Kevin and Josh, prays for others on the same journey as them -• The power of God's name and the Holy Spirit is invoked to declare praises and send out a message. -• The call to God is about more than just this moment, but every moment from now on. -• The speakers ask to be filled with wonder and to run headlong into the journey of faith, even if their path is unknown. -• They pray for guidance and blessing in Jesus' name. -• Fear as a slave vs being a child of God -• Relationship with God, chosen and loved -• Overcoming fear and walking in faith -• Redemption through Christ's blood -• Invitation to connect with the community and leaders after service -• Receiving God's blessing and protection -• Shame and pain being taken away -• Belief repeated multiple times -• Redemption through the Lamb -• Multiple expressions of gratitude ("Thank you") \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, Sep 29, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, Sep 29, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index fe1eb1ee1da8f0b83866fcdba1b3bfacadeb4acd..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, Sep 29, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1554 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 0.28] Again. -[1.70 --> 2.14] Yes. -[2.54 --> 2.94] Anybody? -[3.30 --> 4.76] It sure added to the song. -[5.98 --> 7.70] Oh, yes, I see some coming up. -[7.70 --> 10.12] We'll also help everybody with the words, so come on up. -[10.42 --> 14.08] You know the song better than us, so if you can help us sing it as well. -[14.86 --> 17.36] You can come right up on top so people can see. -[23.86 --> 25.58] Anybody else want to join us? -[25.58 --> 26.58] Yes. -[26.58 --> 31.98] I know that us adults don't do the actions quite as well as the kids, but I mean you're -[31.98 --> 35.98] free to follow their actions as well. -[39.38 --> 41.98] And I really am stalling hoping that words are going to come back. -[44.12 --> 44.62] Nope. -[44.62 --> 45.62] It's all right. -[45.62 --> 46.12] Nope? -[46.12 --> 46.62] Okay. -[46.62 --> 47.62] It's all right. -[47.62 --> 48.62] Okay. -[55.58 --> 75.08] Here we go. -[75.08 --> 85.56] Save to show, save to show, save to show. -[88.30 --> 97.06] I won't hear what tomorrow brings, with each morning I'll rise and sing. -[97.06 --> 109.46] My God's love will lead me through, you are peace in my troubles, you are peace in my troubles. -[112.74 --> 121.46] My light out, my light out, shining in darkness, I will call you home. -[121.46 --> 129.32] My light out, my light out, I will just promise, you will carry me. -[129.32 --> 139.46] Save to show, save to show, save to show, save to show. -[141.46 --> 143.10] Save to show. -[143.10 --> 154.76] Fire before us, you're the brightest, you will lead us through the storm. -[155.12 --> 163.10] Fire before us, you're the brightest, you will lead us through the storm. -[163.14 --> 171.32] Fire before us, you're the brightest, you will lead us through the storm. -[171.32 --> 180.54] You will come before us, you're the brightest, you will lead us through the storm. -[181.18 --> 189.12] My lighthouse, my lighthouse, shining in the darkness, I will follow you on. -[189.12 --> 198.26] My lighthouse, my lighthouse, I will trust the promise, you will carry me straight to shore. -[198.26 --> 211.18] Take to shore, take to shore, take to shore. -[215.18 --> 218.36] You may let's all take a seat. -[218.36 --> 227.20] So this time of confession and assurance. -[228.76 --> 231.82] You know this summer I've been listening to the narthex. -[232.14 --> 234.62] It's not a shameless plug but it really was. -[235.38 --> 240.56] Anyway, I was thinking like walking through the Bible listening to our pastors would be pretty easy. -[240.56 --> 248.70] But we got to the one podcast where they talked about the Israelites checking out the promised land. -[249.74 --> 251.92] And it got me thinking. -[253.20 --> 266.68] Have you ever caught yourself thinking like the ten leaders that went into the land and they looked around and they forgot who they were serving. -[266.68 --> 270.44] They forgot how powerful God had moved in their midst. -[271.64 --> 274.52] And they forgot everything God had done for them. -[276.58 --> 283.34] So I was looking around and I thought, you know, I lost my place. -[283.34 --> 292.86] When I look at the state of the world, I can forget. -[294.54 --> 299.62] When I see uncertain times for myself, I can forget. -[303.34 --> 308.86] When I don't see myself capable of doing a job before me, I forget. -[308.86 --> 317.14] So I pray the Holy Spirit give us the spiritual eyes to see that God is in control of this world. -[318.58 --> 321.90] Spiritual eyes to trust what God has in store for us. -[322.80 --> 326.96] And just like Joshua and Caleb, the other two leaders, -[327.62 --> 332.12] I just pray that we have the trust and faith in God to be able to rest in his promises. -[333.86 --> 335.12] Why don't we stand up? -[335.12 --> 338.52] I'm hoping we know this one a little bit easier. -[340.58 --> 341.68] Lord, I need you. -[342.16 --> 343.46] So let's stand and sing that. -[343.46 --> 344.46] Thank you. -[356.62 --> 359.70] Lord, I come. -[360.34 --> 363.46] Why not thanks? -[363.46 --> 376.70] Without you, I fall apart. -[377.64 --> 384.04] The one that guides my heart. -[384.04 --> 394.38] Lord, I need you, oh, I need you -[394.38 --> 401.00] Every hour I need you -[401.00 --> 407.56] My fond defense, my righteousness -[407.56 --> 413.00] Oh God, how I need you -[413.00 --> 420.32] Every time runs deep -[420.32 --> 423.96] Your grace is born -[423.96 --> 427.42] Where grace is found -[427.42 --> 431.00] It's where you are -[431.00 --> 437.00] Where you are, Lord, I am free -[437.00 --> 444.32] Holiness is Christ in me -[444.32 --> 450.46] Where you are, Lord, I am free -[450.46 --> 458.32] Holiness is Christ in me -[458.32 --> 467.64] Lord, I need you, oh, I need you -[467.64 --> 474.58] Every hour I need you -[474.58 --> 480.64] My fond defense, my righteousness -[480.64 --> 487.96] Oh God, how I need you -[487.96 --> 488.96] I need you -[488.96 --> 489.96] I need you -[489.96 --> 490.96] I need you -[490.96 --> 497.96] When temptation runs my way -[497.96 --> 503.28] When I cannot stand, I'll fall on you -[503.28 --> 509.28] Jesus, you're my hope and stay -[509.28 --> 514.60] When I cannot stand, I'll fall on you -[514.60 --> 520.60] Jesus, you're my hope and stay -[520.60 --> 527.92] Oh God, how I need you -[527.92 --> 529.92] Oh, I need you -[529.92 --> 531.92] Oh, I need you -[531.92 --> 537.92] Every hour I need you -[537.92 --> 545.24] My fond defense, my righteousness -[545.24 --> 549.24] Oh God, how I need you -[549.24 --> 553.24] Oh, I need you -[553.24 --> 558.24] Oh, I need you -[558.24 --> 563.32] Every hour I need you -[563.32 --> 565.28] Every hour I need you -[565.28 --> 566.98] Every hour I need you -[566.98 --> 568.02] Every hour I need you -[568.02 --> 571.94] My one defense, my righteousness -[571.94 --> 577.60] Oh, God, how I need you -[588.24 --> 592.24] Pray with me -[592.24 --> 597.70] Abba Father, help us keep our eyes on you -[597.70 --> 601.22] We so easily forget your greatness -[601.22 --> 602.94] Your faithfulness -[602.94 --> 605.76] The goodness you have showered on us -[605.76 --> 609.26] Without you, life can look overwhelming -[609.26 --> 610.84] And we can lose hope -[610.84 --> 614.40] Forgive us for times we forget you -[614.40 --> 617.08] And we try to rely on ourselves -[617.08 --> 620.82] As we walk into another year of serving you -[620.82 --> 623.06] Like Joshua and Caleb -[623.06 --> 625.90] Help us put our trust in you -[625.90 --> 628.84] By your spirit, give us boldness -[628.84 --> 631.32] Knowing that you are for us -[631.32 --> 633.06] And we can rest in you -[633.06 --> 635.86] In Jesus' name we pray, amen -[647.08 --> 658.90] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[658.90 --> 663.96] Holy, holy is He -[663.96 --> 671.08] Worthy is the Lamb who was slain -[671.08 --> 675.90] Holy, holy, holy is He -[675.90 --> 681.08] Sing a new song -[681.08 --> 681.82] Sing a new song -[681.82 --> 685.02] To live with sin song -[685.02 --> 688.08] Heaven's mercy see -[688.08 --> 689.08] Heaven's mercy see -[689.08 --> 690.08] Heaven's mercy see -[690.08 --> 694.08] Sing a new song -[694.08 --> 695.08] Holy, holy, holy is He -[695.08 --> 696.08] Sing a new song -[696.08 --> 697.08] Sing a new song -[697.08 --> 701.08] Sing a new song -[701.08 --> 705.38] Heaven's He -[705.38 --> 707.08] Sing a new song -[707.08 --> 708.08] Sing a new song -[708.08 --> 710.08] Sing a new song -[710.08 --> 710.86] Sing a new song -[710.86 --> 711.08] Sing a new song -[711.08 --> 712.92] Heaven's mercy see -[712.92 --> 741.32] then -[742.92 --> 743.92] Adore you. -[757.92 --> 767.92] Golden rainbows, a living color, flashes of light in rolls of thunder. -[767.92 --> 780.92] Blessing and honest man, glory and power, to the only one I see. -[780.92 --> 792.92] Holy, holy, holy, the Son of God Almighty, who art to His, to His, to God. -[792.92 --> 802.92] O creation I sing, praise to the King of kings. -[802.92 --> 809.92] You are my everything, and I will adore you. -[809.92 --> 819.92] The love with wonder, all-struck wonder, at the mention of your name. -[819.92 --> 834.92] The love with wonder, all-struck wonder, at the mention of your name. -[834.92 --> 846.92] The love with wonder, all-struck wonder, at the mention of your name. -[846.92 --> 858.92] Jesus, your name is power, breath of living water, and such a marvelous mystery. -[858.92 --> 874.92] The love with wonder, heaven, the Shawn called, beats of knowing others, to Jesus. -[874.92 --> 880.70] With all creation I sing praise to the King of Me. -[881.40 --> 886.74] You are my everything, and God will adore you. -[888.32 --> 897.80] Holy, holy, holy, Son of God Almighty, who was and is and is to come. -[897.80 --> 906.04] With all creation I sing praise to the King of Me. -[906.80 --> 912.56] You are my everything, and God will adore you. -[927.80 --> 930.06] It's time for the offering. -[931.50 --> 932.88] There's no screen to type. -[942.72 --> 944.44] Good morning, my name is Yap. -[944.54 --> 946.44] I'm a deacon here at Langley Emanuel. -[947.26 --> 951.48] This morning's offering will be for North American Indigenous Ministries. -[952.32 --> 956.08] Your gifts will specifically go to Tim and Charity Johnson. -[957.80 --> 961.92] If you would like to give to the budget or to another cause, -[962.02 --> 963.90] you can use the envelopes in the seats in front of you. -[964.62 --> 965.30] Mark it in there. -[967.88 --> 969.50] Usually everything's up on the screen there. -[970.52 --> 971.78] You can also e-transfer. -[973.98 --> 975.50] Anyways, give as you're able to. -[975.50 --> 975.92] Thank you. -[987.80 --> 1000.66] I lift my eyes up to the mountains. -[1000.66 --> 1005.42] Where does my help come from? -[1005.42 --> 1019.42] I have come to you, maker of heaven, creator of the earth -[1019.42 --> 1031.42] Oh, how I need you, Lord, you are my only hope, you're my only prayer -[1031.42 --> 1045.42] So I will wait for you to come and rescue me, come and hear me, Lord -[1045.42 --> 1058.42] I lift my eyes up to the mountains, where does my help come from? -[1058.42 --> 1072.42] I have come to you, maker of heaven, creator of the earth -[1072.42 --> 1084.42] Oh, how I need you, Lord, you are my only hope, you're my only prayer -[1084.42 --> 1098.42] So I will wait for you to come and rescue me, come and hear me, Lord -[1098.42 --> 1110.42] I lift my eyes up to the mountains, where does my help come from? -[1110.42 --> 1124.42] I lift my eyes up to the mountains, where does my love come from? -[1124.42 --> 1129.42] I invite the kids to come forward if you are age 3, all the way up to grade 4 -[1129.42 --> 1132.42] We're super excited to start children's worship time again -[1132.42 --> 1135.42] So I'm looking forward to seeing lots of people up here -[1135.42 --> 1142.42] Just for parents, just a quick note, so our preschoolers, so the age 3 and 4s are going to be going to their room -[1142.42 --> 1145.42] Which is to the left when you exit the sanctuary -[1145.42 --> 1150.42] And then the kindergarten to grade 4s today will all be together in the multipurpose room -[1150.42 --> 1154.42] Which is to the right-ish when you exit the sanctuary -[1154.42 --> 1157.42] So especially if you have kindergarten and grade 1s -[1157.42 --> 1161.42] We'd like you to pick them up from the multipurpose room at the end of the service -[1161.42 --> 1164.42] So we know they're with the right family -[1164.42 --> 1165.42] So that's where you will find them -[1165.42 --> 1169.42] And the preschoolers you'll find on the left side there -[1169.42 --> 1171.42] Good morning, everybody -[1171.42 --> 1175.42] Feels like a long time since we've been all up here together -[1175.42 --> 1178.42] Well, I'm excited that you're here -[1178.42 --> 1181.42] Today in children's worship, we are going to be asking the question -[1181.42 --> 1183.42] What is the Bible? -[1183.42 --> 1185.42] What is the Bible? -[1185.42 --> 1188.42] You guys know what it is? -[1188.42 --> 1191.42] What are some things that we already know about the Bible? -[1191.42 --> 1192.42] Amelia? -[1192.42 --> 1195.42] Yeah, you read the Bible -[1195.42 --> 1197.42] Exactly, Haley? -[1197.42 --> 1199.42] It's God's Word -[1199.42 --> 1201.42] It's the best book ever -[1201.42 --> 1203.42] It's the best book ever -[1203.42 --> 1206.42] They're separated into two parts -[1206.42 --> 1209.42] So you guys know a bunch of things about the Bible -[1209.42 --> 1213.42] It talks about God -[1213.42 --> 1215.42] It tells us the story about God, exactly -[1215.42 --> 1221.42] It's exactly a whole bunch of books about God -[1221.42 --> 1224.42] So we're going to look at more about why it's important -[1224.42 --> 1226.42] And what kinds of things are in the Bible -[1226.42 --> 1227.42] And why we read it -[1227.42 --> 1230.42] So that's going to be our focus today for children's worship -[1230.42 --> 1233.42] So before we do our blessing, let's just pray together -[1233.42 --> 1235.42] And then we'll stand up -[1235.42 --> 1240.42] Lord God, thank you so much that we get to head to children's worship time -[1240.42 --> 1242.42] Thank you for giving us your word -[1242.42 --> 1246.42] These stories and the amazing story that you share about Jesus through the Bible -[1246.42 --> 1249.42] Please help us to learn something new today -[1249.42 --> 1251.42] And grow closer to you as we learn -[1251.42 --> 1253.42] And also for everyone who's staying back here -[1253.42 --> 1256.42] That your word would teach them and instruct them -[1256.42 --> 1257.42] Amen -[1257.42 --> 1261.42] All right, we're going to all stand up everyone -[1261.42 --> 1265.42] And our children are going to lead us in the children's blessing -[1265.42 --> 1267.42] And invite you to respond as well -[1287.42 --> 1288.42] And we're going to be shopping -[1288.42 --> 1289.42] Just to read everything -[1289.42 --> 1294.42] Just under the Jeez -[1294.42 --> 1296.42] How ministered -[1296.42 --> 1297.42] How will you bring that aloud -[1297.42 --> 1299.42] Please bend our lord -[1299.42 --> 1300.42] Part 1 -[1300.42 --> 1301.42] Here we get to help you -[1301.42 --> 1302.42] How illusions of it -[1302.42 --> 1303.42] How are YOUR heart -[1303.42 --> 1304.42] Please grow your disappeared -[1304.42 --> 1306.42] How are vocês -[1306.42 --> 1307.42] These stories -[1307.42 --> 1308.42] And what are your desires -[1308.42 --> 1309.42] No matter why -[1309.42 --> 1311.42] Please bring that into the world -[1311.42 --> 1313.42] All of this -[1313.42 --> 1322.30] I'm Eric here and Elder Ed Emmanuel here just going to lead you in our church family prayer -[1322.30 --> 1329.44] this morning sing to the Lord all the earth proclaim your salvation day after day declare -[1329.44 --> 1335.26] his glory among the nations his marvelous deeds among all his people for great is the Lord and -[1335.26 --> 1342.10] most worthy of praise praise be to God the Father our Lord Jesus Christ the Father of compassion -[1342.10 --> 1348.32] and the God of all comfort who comforts us all in our troubles so that we can comfort those in any -[1348.32 --> 1354.98] troubles with the comfort we ourselves receive from God this weekend is the national day of truth -[1354.98 --> 1361.96] and reconciliation we help help us to continue to deal with the reconciliation process Lord we do -[1361.96 --> 1368.66] thank you for the work of Tim and Charity Johnson as our family works with the shoe swap first nations -[1368.66 --> 1373.84] developing relationships with the youth and the family teach them about you Jesus and helping -[1373.84 --> 1381.20] them understand your love for all his people at this time we want to thank many people who are -[1381.20 --> 1387.00] dealing with the wars whether it be in Ukraine or in Israel please please bring these things to a -[1387.00 --> 1392.72] peaceful resolution soon Lord also this past week there are many people on the east coast that have -[1392.72 --> 1399.40] been dealing with the recent hurricanes help bring back power and from all the destruction the -[1399.40 --> 1404.04] destructions and those who are dealing with the loss of loved ones as a result of this as well Lord -[1404.04 --> 1411.84] over the next few weeks we pray for those who are running for the provincial elections we play for your -[1411.84 --> 1418.34] guidance and wisdom in this process Lord Lord at this time we also think of any people who are dealing with -[1418.34 --> 1424.72] with health issues we think of Lena here as the doctors tried to figure out the difficulty she's -[1424.72 --> 1430.48] been dealing with her other eyesight and balance Lord today is a day where we have an opportunity to -[1430.48 --> 1435.58] start the season here at Emmanuel with many different ministries it's an incredible blessing having -[1435.58 --> 1442.12] the staff and volunteers and programs here at the church and today is just a day of highlighting those -[1442.12 --> 1447.40] different ministries we thank you for the opportunity to serve at this church and the opportunities that -[1447.40 --> 1454.90] present itself for others to serve at the church here Lord this morning we also want to be with -[1454.90 --> 1462.38] pastor Chris as he brings the word to us may it bless us and touch us and guide us help us to gather -[1462.38 --> 1466.48] grow and go in your name we pray amen -[1477.40 --> 1500.06] as part of our launch season we have spent the last few weeks looking at our sort of mission statement -[1500.06 --> 1529.56] that three word phrase gather grow go that we believe sort of sets out for us what it is that we do how we are called to be together in some ways the the idea of gather grow go is aspirational that is it's something we look towards and we pursue after together in some ways it's also inspirational in that it it it -[1529.56 --> 1559.22] fills us with a sense of purpose that we share together and so two weeks ago we explored what the word gather means we developed a biblical theology for our gathering as a community of faith last week pastor Kevin led us as we explored what it means that we grow together that we mature as disciples in the faith again developing a sort of biblical theology for that and today -[1559.22 --> 1589.20] today we look at the word go what does it mean that we look at the word go what does it mean that we are sent and what are the particulars of our shared identity together under the banner of and the idea of go and so there too we will look at a sort of brief biblical theology of sending and of being sent because of that we're going to look at a whole bunch of Bible -[1589.20 --> 1619.18] texts and because the screen isn't working the way that we wanted to it might be a little bit more of a personal challenge for you to see the text and to follow along but there are Bibles at the back and if you're familiar enough with the Bible and you know where you can go back and forth to find these books that will be helpful to you if not just let the words come from me and wash over you hear them and maybe if you're a note taker just write down the -[1619.18 --> 1649.16] text and then you can return to the text and then you can return to the text and then you can return to it later this week but the the banner sort of the starting place I want us to jump in is actually words of Jesus to his disciples from John 20 and really just one verse in 21 John 20 verse 21 this is after the resurrection Jesus has appeared to his disciples one time and he has appeared to Thomas -[1649.18 --> 1679.18] and at the end of appearing or as part of appearing appearing to his disciples Jesus says peace be with you as the father has sent me I am sending you and with that he breathed on them and said receive the Holy Spirit if you forgive anyone's sins their sins are forgiven if you do not forgive them they are not forgiven -[1679.18 --> 1692.50] but in your brother's sins their sins are forgivenário啡 they are forgiven they are shaken -[1692.62 --> 1700.28] and swear what covenant be ok may the verse 20 is that in high said a day of trial and was sent in high school but from the first time till -[1700.28 --> 1715.10] beginning, God has been sending his people. In the book of Exodus, in chapter 3, Moses meets God in -[1715.10 --> 1720.64] the burning bush. Maybe you're familiar with that story. Moses has fled Egypt. He's gone to the -[1720.64 --> 1727.28] wilderness at Midian, and there God calls him to be a prophet for the people and to go and speak to -[1727.28 --> 1735.18] Pharaoh. And God says in Exodus 3, verse 10, now go, I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people, -[1735.34 --> 1743.18] the Israelites, out of Egypt. Fast forward a few hundred years and to the prophet Isaiah now, -[1743.46 --> 1750.96] God calls Isaiah and commissions Isaiah to go be a voice to the king of Israel. And he says, this is -[1750.96 --> 1756.96] what we read in Isaiah, then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, whom shall I send and who will go -[1756.96 --> 1765.80] for us? And then Isaiah says, here I am, send me. Similarly, a few hundred years after that, the -[1765.80 --> 1772.88] prophet Jeremiah, right, is also sent. And then we read in Jeremiah 1, 7, but the Lord said to me, -[1773.44 --> 1782.14] do not say I am too young. You must go to everyone I send to you and say whatever I command you. -[1782.14 --> 1787.74] Now, in all of these examples, and there are more that we could pull out, this is an example of God -[1787.74 --> 1797.14] sending a prophet to speak his word to the world and to reveal himself to the world through them and -[1797.14 --> 1804.78] for them. And this idea of sending continues right through into the New Testament identity of the -[1804.78 --> 1811.54] church, right? Jesus says, as the Father has sent me, I am sending you. Jesus also says in Matthew 10, -[1812.00 --> 1818.18] I am sending you out like sheep among wolves, therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. -[1819.06 --> 1825.70] This idea of sending isn't just a commissioning for general work, but also commissioning for -[1825.70 --> 1833.64] particular work. In Romans 10, we read there that, how then can they call on the one they have not -[1833.64 --> 1838.20] believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear -[1838.20 --> 1843.44] without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? -[1845.34 --> 1853.78] We are a sent people with a prophetic message to proclaim to the world. And Jesus, knowing that -[1853.78 --> 1862.06] we'll face challenges in this, he prays for us. In John 17, Jesus says in prayer to his Father, -[1862.06 --> 1867.96] my prayer is not that you take them out of the world, but that you protect them from the evil one. -[1868.80 --> 1874.98] They're not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by your truth. Your word is truth. -[1875.18 --> 1883.10] As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. So over and over and over again, -[1883.18 --> 1891.04] in the Bible, we see that God's people, first in Israel and now in the church, are a sent people. -[1892.06 --> 1898.60] But what does it mean to be sent? What does it mean to go? That's what we're exploring -[1898.60 --> 1905.96] this morning. So our big idea is that the church is a sent community, and we will see -[1905.96 --> 1914.40] that in four ways. That our going is for blessing, our going is for revealing, and our going is for -[1914.40 --> 1917.74] showing and our going is for contrasting. -[1921.06 --> 1928.56] Before we get too far into that, I also want to make a distinction. Because especially, especially -[1928.56 --> 1936.80] if you've grown up in the Christian church in the Western world your whole life, it's really easy -[1936.80 --> 1943.72] to think about this going, this mission of the church, as missions, with an S on the end. -[1944.22 --> 1952.70] To think about sending as going far away. Or to think that some things that we do are -[1952.70 --> 1957.12] like missionary activities, and other things we do are just not. -[1957.12 --> 1963.96] Coming out of that, it's easy for some of us to think that some people do like sacred work, -[1964.48 --> 1967.94] and the rest of us do like secular work. -[1969.26 --> 1974.60] And because I'm a pastor paid by a church, that must mean that everything that I do is sacred. -[1975.60 --> 1980.78] And because you're an engineer, that must mean everything you do is secular. -[1980.78 --> 1988.72] But that's not actually the case. When we see that God has always called and sent people. In fact, -[1988.86 --> 1994.96] what I hope that we'll begin to see is that it's not about where you go, or even it's not about what -[1994.96 --> 2006.00] you do specifically, but it's more about how you be when you go and when you do. It's more about who -[2006.00 --> 2013.16] you are as you are in the midst of life in these places. And so really, what I want us to do is -[2013.16 --> 2022.18] to think more holistically, and you can hear in that, more biblically about our being sent, about our going -[2022.18 --> 2032.10] together. This past week, I had a chance to gather with some of the committee leaders and coordinators -[2032.10 --> 2037.52] from ministries and team leaders here. We gathered for an evening on Thursday of encouragement and -[2037.52 --> 2041.40] celebration of God's work, and it was a beautiful night together. And one of the things that we -[2041.40 --> 2050.06] discussed there was that our mission, as those who are called to gather, grow, and go, is ultimately -[2050.06 --> 2056.64] indivisible, right? And so part of what we do is going to lean more heavily towards gather when we do -[2056.64 --> 2061.04] that, like right now. Part of what we do is going to lean more towards grow when we do that, -[2061.04 --> 2067.46] right? Lord willing, like right now. And part of what we do is going to lean more towards go. But in a -[2067.46 --> 2075.26] big picture, ultimate sense, everything we do exists in the middle space of all three of those, -[2076.72 --> 2083.10] right? This is ultimately this identity of gather, grow, go about who we are as a church, -[2083.84 --> 2090.22] right? We gather and grow so that our going will be fueled by the Holy Spirit and God's transformation -[2090.22 --> 2098.32] in our lives. We go so that others may be gathered up into our growing. We grow so that our going can -[2098.32 --> 2105.18] be with confidence and the Holy Spirit capabilities. And so our gathering may bring more and more praises -[2105.18 --> 2113.82] to the one who grows us, right? Our gathering is for going and we gather to scatter. -[2113.82 --> 2122.08] Or to put it another way, and this is language that I'm borrowing from Michael Goheen, who's a -[2122.08 --> 2126.22] missiologist, who's a professor of mine. A number of you might know him. He lives here in the area. -[2127.60 --> 2136.80] To put it another way, the communal life of the church comes together for the going apart -[2136.80 --> 2147.08] in order that we might come together again. Right? Even our going out is gathered because we do it as -[2147.08 --> 2157.30] one in our unique but individual places. And so, seeing all of these threads tied together as one, -[2157.56 --> 2163.96] what I'd like to do is spend the rest of our time looking at these four ideas about how it is that we -[2163.96 --> 2173.30] go. How it is that we are sent. To begin, I want to start in Genesis 12. Genesis 12 is the beginning -[2173.30 --> 2181.76] of the Bible, first book of the Bible. It's the call of Abram. And so God reaches out and comes to the -[2181.76 --> 2191.54] world and he calls a particular man. And this is those first few verses. Genesis 12, 1 to 3, we read, -[2191.54 --> 2221.52] Now notice the trajectory there, the through, -[2221.52 --> 2229.14] Abraham is the through line. Abraham is gathered up to God and God grows a family around him so that -[2229.14 --> 2238.42] the gathered and grown family can be a blessing to all peoples on earth. Our going is for blessing. -[2240.20 --> 2246.46] And this pattern continues over and over and over again. God gathers up a community -[2246.46 --> 2253.50] and grows them into a new kind of family, the body of Christ, brothers and sisters in faith. And then -[2253.50 --> 2259.46] he sends us out to be a blessing to our neighbors and our neighborhoods, to be a blessing to our city -[2259.46 --> 2267.52] and our region and our country and the world. Notice in this text, -[2267.52 --> 2278.54] God calls Abraham to go to a place he doesn't yet know and thus begins the journey of his going. -[2279.46 --> 2286.78] This is the story of our faith, the journey of our going into those places that God calls us. And along -[2286.78 --> 2297.70] the way, we're called to bless those around us. Now, I want to offer just a brief admission at this point, -[2297.78 --> 2305.22] because there's a danger and there's a difficulty here. And Abraham faced it and we face it the same. -[2305.22 --> 2313.58] Because the reality is that most of the world doesn't actually know what's good for it. -[2316.38 --> 2323.12] Most of us don't actually know what's best for us. We have some pretty significant ideas, -[2323.72 --> 2326.82] right? And we would make some pretty significant claims about that. -[2326.82 --> 2337.40] But the truth is, right, in our world and in our own hearts and lives, if we reject God, we reject goodness. -[2338.70 --> 2346.02] And so then what is actually a blessing for you might seem outlandish or crazy to those people who -[2346.02 --> 2349.78] don't know this God who calls you onto a journey with him. -[2349.78 --> 2359.42] The truth is that this good news, this calling and journeying with God, will bring opposition -[2359.42 --> 2368.24] as the church goes and challenges the deep convictions of the culture that surrounds it, -[2368.26 --> 2374.02] the culture that doesn't yet know God. And this is going to happen particularly and deeply -[2374.02 --> 2381.42] when we become involved in the institutions of our culture, when we become involved in the everyday -[2381.42 --> 2389.48] life of creation and celebration in the world that we live in, right? The church is charged with a -[2389.48 --> 2399.94] mission that goes out from this place into public life, into our culture. And as disciples of Jesus, -[2399.94 --> 2408.28] we participate and are involved in the ongoing cultural task of the world and the welfare of our -[2408.28 --> 2417.52] neighbors. And sometimes that's going to bring hardship to us as we have to say things like, -[2418.34 --> 2427.80] this is actually for your good. And that's going to create points of conflict at some times and some -[2427.80 --> 2434.02] places. And all of you can think of ways that you've experienced that or ways that you might. -[2435.50 --> 2441.34] And the scripture's response to that, the scripture's encouragement is that even when you have to bring -[2441.34 --> 2448.82] a challenging and prophetic word, do it with gentleness and respect. Or we are encouraged to -[2448.82 --> 2454.92] live such good lives among those who don't believe that though they accuse you of doing wrong, -[2454.92 --> 2459.68] though they think what you're doing is crazy, they see your good deeds and they glorify God. -[2461.38 --> 2467.88] Right? This is Jesus when he says, pray for those who rule over you, pray for the emperors. -[2468.48 --> 2471.88] Right? This is Jesus who says, bless those who persecute you. -[2473.28 --> 2477.32] And this is the identity of the church that's called to be a blessing that we might live at peace -[2477.32 --> 2482.36] with everyone. This is the words of Jeremiah to the people who were carried away into exile. He says, -[2482.36 --> 2490.00] seek the peace and prosperity, the well-being of the city that God has carried you into. This is Babylon. -[2491.64 --> 2497.78] Right? And that theme returns in the New Testament church as they engage in the emperor of Rome and the -[2497.78 --> 2508.62] Roman Empire, bringing goodness and good news. Right? Being a blessing. And so as Christians who -[2508.62 --> 2518.24] gather, we must also go in the work of politics and in the work of justice and in the work of mercy. -[2519.80 --> 2527.68] This is how we are sent to be a blessing. And every one of you can do that in some way. -[2527.68 --> 2539.10] You can be a blessing to your neighbors if you're in grade 10. You can be a blessing to your co-workers -[2539.10 --> 2546.04] if you're in engineering. I had to return to that one because I started with that one saying that it -[2546.04 --> 2554.54] was a secular activity. But that's how all of these activities get lifted up into the sacred task -[2554.54 --> 2567.26] of our calling. Going is for blessing. Additionally, going is for revealing. And here I'm looking at -[2568.06 --> 2576.04] Exodus 19. So if you're still in Genesis, the next book of the Bible is Exodus. Exodus 19, -[2576.04 --> 2583.12] verse 5 and 6, God says to his people, -[2583.94 --> 2590.68] Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all the nations you will be my treasured -[2590.68 --> 2598.92] possession. Although the whole earth is mine, you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. -[2600.36 --> 2602.96] These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites. -[2602.96 --> 2610.70] And so God tells Moses in that moment that his people are to be a kingdom of priests. -[2613.34 --> 2623.10] That Israel shall fulfill a priestly role as a people in the midst of the peoples. -[2623.92 --> 2629.30] That is that through Israel, God is represented in the world of nations. -[2629.30 --> 2636.34] And what priests are for in a people, Israel is to be as a people for the world. -[2638.18 --> 2640.90] Now because of this, this shaping identity, -[2641.74 --> 2647.46] I'll make quickly just outline for you three elements of what being a priest means in the Old Testament. -[2648.74 --> 2653.72] Right? Three aspects that a priest has as part of their role. -[2653.72 --> 2658.38] First, a priest is set apart in holiness. -[2660.40 --> 2664.20] And a priest, second, mediates God's presence. -[2664.60 --> 2667.90] That is, he brings God's presence to the people. -[2668.14 --> 2674.80] And a priest does all of this, returning to a theme, for the sake of others. -[2674.80 --> 2681.78] Right? In Israel, God's holy presence is made known through the work of the priest. -[2682.56 --> 2689.60] The holy life and the behavior of the priest functions as a model of consecration and devotion to God. -[2690.48 --> 2695.40] Right? Everything about this priest is set apart for God's use. -[2695.82 --> 2698.52] And that actually is the simplest definition of holiness. -[2698.52 --> 2702.40] Right? It's to be set apart for God and for his use. -[2703.76 --> 2707.20] A priest embodies, I might even say incarnates, -[2707.62 --> 2714.18] a priest incarnates the holiness of God to the people for the people. -[2715.70 --> 2718.70] And as you go forward, as we read into the New Testament, -[2719.08 --> 2723.26] we realize again that this isn't about some sort of sacred, secular divide. -[2723.26 --> 2730.10] Instead, everything and everyone is gathered up into this identity of being priests, -[2730.30 --> 2733.34] gathered up into this being set apart for God's purposes. -[2735.02 --> 2740.94] Right? In some way, just as sin has stained everything with its sort of parasitic nature, -[2741.28 --> 2743.80] right, in the inverse, in the redemption of that, -[2744.10 --> 2748.68] everything that we do is claimed by the blood of Jesus for the purposes of God. -[2748.68 --> 2755.46] Now, this idea of the priestly role is actually fleshed out a little bit more in Leviticus. -[2756.14 --> 2759.60] Leviticus is a book all about the priestly offices and the sacrifices -[2759.60 --> 2761.66] and the things that needed to be made. -[2761.80 --> 2766.74] And in chapter 21, which is a chapter about rules for priests, -[2767.06 --> 2771.72] it says that the people should consider the priests holy -[2771.72 --> 2777.84] because I, the Lord, am holy, I who make you holy. -[2779.22 --> 2780.40] And so again, track that, right? -[2780.60 --> 2784.22] The priest is holy because God is holy and they represent God, -[2784.32 --> 2787.68] and through them, God makes the people holy. -[2789.04 --> 2790.90] First of all, wow! -[2792.56 --> 2793.84] What a responsibility! -[2794.98 --> 2795.66] What a privilege! -[2795.66 --> 2804.44] But second, right, that means that everything the priest does is for the people, -[2804.96 --> 2807.14] for the sake of others, -[2807.64 --> 2810.76] to make them holy, set apart for God's purposes, -[2810.92 --> 2812.50] to be God's instrument in the world, -[2812.58 --> 2816.06] to make more and more set apart for his purposes. -[2817.84 --> 2820.02] Again, Michael Goheen, he summarizes it. -[2820.08 --> 2820.34] He says, -[2820.34 --> 2823.46] Israel, as a priestly nation in the world, -[2823.82 --> 2826.12] is to be totally devoted to God's service -[2826.12 --> 2828.26] and to model in its corporate life -[2828.26 --> 2830.20] allegiance to the true God -[2830.20 --> 2833.64] and the life of blessing that God means for all. -[2834.92 --> 2837.30] And again, you're starting to see, right? -[2837.86 --> 2841.14] This image, this calling, this responsibility -[2841.14 --> 2844.56] carries forward to the new Israel, -[2844.72 --> 2845.34] to the church. -[2845.62 --> 2848.38] That's you and I who believe by grace through faith. -[2850.34 --> 2854.48] In 1 Peter, we read the exact same language -[2854.48 --> 2857.46] from what we read here in Exodus 19. -[2857.86 --> 2859.50] You also, like living stones, -[2859.62 --> 2861.56] are being built up into a spiritual house -[2861.56 --> 2863.66] to be a holy priesthood, -[2864.00 --> 2865.76] offering spiritual sacrifices -[2865.76 --> 2868.00] acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. -[2868.54 --> 2870.42] You are a chosen people, -[2870.56 --> 2871.66] a royal priesthood, -[2871.70 --> 2872.58] a holy nation, -[2872.98 --> 2874.32] God's special possession, -[2874.96 --> 2877.34] that you may declare the praises of him -[2877.34 --> 2878.72] who called you out of darkness -[2878.72 --> 2881.52] into his wonderful light. -[2883.08 --> 2885.44] In fact, as we look even further forward -[2885.44 --> 2886.78] in the book of Revelation, -[2886.98 --> 2889.62] which we've gone from Genesis to Revelation -[2889.62 --> 2891.08] to the end of the Bible, -[2891.54 --> 2895.44] now Jesus, we read in Revelation 1 verse 6, -[2895.56 --> 2898.54] Jesus has made us to be a kingdom -[2898.54 --> 2902.72] and priests to serve his God and Father. -[2903.18 --> 2906.84] To him be glory and power forever and ever. -[2907.46 --> 2908.46] Earlier in our worship, -[2908.60 --> 2910.90] we read from Revelation 4 and 5 -[2910.90 --> 2912.62] as we were called into worship. -[2912.74 --> 2913.60] And there we read, -[2913.92 --> 2915.66] and they sang a new song saying, -[2915.82 --> 2917.54] you are worthy to take the scroll -[2917.54 --> 2918.90] and to open its seals -[2918.90 --> 2920.24] because you were slain -[2920.24 --> 2922.18] and with your blood you purchased for God -[2922.18 --> 2923.78] persons from every tribe -[2923.78 --> 2925.44] and language and people and nation. -[2925.78 --> 2926.48] And then hear this, -[2926.48 --> 2928.52] you made them to be a kingdom -[2928.52 --> 2931.00] and priests to serve our God -[2931.00 --> 2934.22] and they will reign on earth. -[2935.34 --> 2939.12] The calling of all people of God everywhere -[2939.12 --> 2942.36] has always been to be a priest. -[2944.02 --> 2946.48] Our going is for revealing. -[2947.18 --> 2949.62] A priest is set apart in holiness. -[2949.86 --> 2951.72] A priest mediates God's presence -[2951.72 --> 2952.54] and his blessing. -[2952.94 --> 2954.22] And a priest does it all -[2954.22 --> 2955.80] for the sake of others. -[2955.80 --> 2957.08] When we say, -[2957.60 --> 2957.82] gather, -[2958.00 --> 2958.18] grow, -[2958.38 --> 2958.74] go, -[2959.36 --> 2960.70] what we are saying is, -[2960.88 --> 2962.30] you are priests. -[2963.08 --> 2964.22] We are all priests -[2964.22 --> 2965.92] and ministers of our God. -[2967.20 --> 2968.40] When we gather -[2968.40 --> 2969.34] and you grow -[2969.34 --> 2970.86] so that you can go, -[2971.30 --> 2972.38] go into the world. -[2973.06 --> 2974.66] Set apart in his holiness. -[2975.38 --> 2976.34] Go into the world -[2976.34 --> 2977.08] bringing God -[2977.08 --> 2978.14] and his presence -[2978.14 --> 2979.88] closer to those around you. -[2979.96 --> 2980.82] Go into the world -[2980.82 --> 2981.50] for the sake -[2981.50 --> 2982.70] of other people. -[2983.36 --> 2984.20] Showing them God. -[2984.20 --> 2985.32] Showing the presence -[2985.32 --> 2986.20] of Jesus. -[2986.40 --> 2987.68] Go as a kingdom of priests -[2987.68 --> 2988.42] to reveal -[2988.42 --> 2990.40] the great high priest. -[2993.12 --> 2995.66] Let me illustrate it this way. -[2995.92 --> 2998.02] Imagine that you're sailing -[2998.02 --> 3000.50] on a dark and stormy night -[3000.50 --> 3001.16] out at sea. -[3001.58 --> 3002.66] Waves are crashing up -[3002.66 --> 3003.40] against your boat. -[3003.62 --> 3004.44] You can hardly see -[3004.44 --> 3005.46] anything around you. -[3005.78 --> 3006.34] And suddenly, -[3006.66 --> 3007.84] in the distance, -[3008.24 --> 3009.50] cutting through the darkness, -[3009.50 --> 3011.02] you see a lighthouse -[3011.02 --> 3011.98] shining brightly -[3011.98 --> 3012.62] from the shore. -[3013.98 --> 3015.04] That lighthouse -[3015.04 --> 3016.46] cuts through the darkness -[3016.46 --> 3017.48] and guides you -[3017.48 --> 3019.32] safely to the harbor. -[3021.20 --> 3022.20] That lighthouse -[3022.20 --> 3023.16] doesn't exist -[3023.16 --> 3024.46] for itself. -[3026.50 --> 3027.38] That lighthouse -[3027.38 --> 3028.74] exists for the sailors, -[3028.96 --> 3029.48] for you, -[3029.76 --> 3030.72] lost at sea. -[3032.42 --> 3034.20] It stands firm -[3034.20 --> 3035.06] and strong -[3035.06 --> 3035.64] and tall, -[3035.80 --> 3036.48] shining its light, -[3036.70 --> 3037.78] not for its own sake, -[3037.78 --> 3039.32] but to help others -[3039.32 --> 3039.88] find the way. -[3041.38 --> 3042.18] This is the role -[3042.18 --> 3042.80] of a priest. -[3043.24 --> 3044.02] Just as the lighthouse -[3044.02 --> 3045.20] shines its light -[3045.20 --> 3045.98] to guide people, -[3046.38 --> 3047.62] priests bring the light -[3047.62 --> 3048.40] of God's presence -[3048.40 --> 3049.12] into the world. -[3049.38 --> 3050.56] They don't shine their light -[3050.56 --> 3051.40] just for themselves, -[3051.66 --> 3052.44] but they do so -[3052.44 --> 3053.42] that others can see -[3053.42 --> 3054.40] and can be guided -[3054.40 --> 3056.16] to safety in God. -[3057.18 --> 3058.06] And in the Old Testament, -[3058.22 --> 3059.06] Israel was supposed -[3059.06 --> 3060.32] to be like a lighthouse -[3060.32 --> 3061.60] for the nations, -[3061.76 --> 3062.46] showing the world -[3062.46 --> 3063.26] who God is -[3063.26 --> 3064.24] and what he's like -[3064.24 --> 3065.62] and how we can come -[3065.62 --> 3066.36] to him. -[3066.42 --> 3067.06] And today, -[3067.38 --> 3068.22] that continues -[3068.22 --> 3069.06] with Christians -[3069.06 --> 3070.14] called to be -[3070.14 --> 3071.08] that lighthouse. -[3071.44 --> 3072.52] Our lives are meant -[3072.52 --> 3074.46] to reflect God's holiness -[3074.46 --> 3075.46] and his love -[3075.46 --> 3076.28] to the world. -[3076.40 --> 3077.62] We are set apart, -[3077.82 --> 3078.24] holy, -[3078.58 --> 3080.02] not to hide away, -[3080.20 --> 3080.96] but to shine -[3080.96 --> 3081.96] God's light -[3081.96 --> 3083.14] for others to see. -[3084.74 --> 3085.74] Like priests, -[3086.14 --> 3087.94] we bring God's presence, -[3088.08 --> 3088.96] his blessing -[3088.96 --> 3089.78] to the world, -[3089.92 --> 3090.68] guiding others -[3090.68 --> 3091.84] to find their way -[3091.84 --> 3092.84] to him. -[3092.84 --> 3094.28] and our going -[3094.28 --> 3095.78] is for revealing. -[3095.98 --> 3097.68] And this goes perfectly -[3097.68 --> 3100.16] into the next idea -[3100.16 --> 3100.92] that our going -[3100.92 --> 3102.14] is for sharing. -[3103.42 --> 3104.14] We've already used -[3104.14 --> 3104.90] the image of light, -[3105.00 --> 3105.90] so let's continue it. -[3106.56 --> 3108.62] In Isaiah 49, -[3109.12 --> 3112.52] Isaiah 49, verse 6, -[3113.42 --> 3114.48] we read that, -[3115.48 --> 3117.00] it is too small a thing -[3117.00 --> 3118.24] for you to be my servant -[3118.24 --> 3119.90] and restore the tribes -[3119.90 --> 3120.32] of Jacob -[3120.32 --> 3121.00] and bring back -[3121.00 --> 3121.70] those of the house -[3121.70 --> 3122.84] of Israel I have kept. -[3123.16 --> 3124.80] I will also make you -[3124.80 --> 3126.72] a light for the Gentiles -[3126.72 --> 3128.22] that my salvation -[3128.22 --> 3129.00] may reach -[3129.00 --> 3129.74] to the ends -[3129.74 --> 3130.84] of the earth. -[3132.22 --> 3133.30] God's point here -[3133.30 --> 3135.52] is that it's not enough -[3135.52 --> 3136.06] for Israel -[3136.06 --> 3137.76] just to be for herself, -[3138.02 --> 3139.34] but Israel is to be -[3139.34 --> 3140.44] for every nation, -[3140.58 --> 3142.72] a light to every nation. -[3142.84 --> 3143.26] Our going -[3143.26 --> 3144.26] is for showing. -[3144.66 --> 3146.50] God sends his people out -[3146.50 --> 3148.26] to show the world -[3148.26 --> 3149.46] his salvation. -[3149.46 --> 3151.40] and he sends his people -[3151.40 --> 3152.38] out to show the world -[3152.38 --> 3153.96] how to find their way -[3153.96 --> 3154.70] back to him, -[3154.78 --> 3155.86] to be brought back -[3155.86 --> 3157.56] to him by his grace -[3157.56 --> 3158.70] and mercy. -[3159.74 --> 3161.92] This idea of God -[3161.92 --> 3162.84] lighting the way -[3162.84 --> 3164.12] is actually ultimately -[3164.12 --> 3165.64] fulfilled in Jesus -[3165.64 --> 3166.34] who says, -[3166.72 --> 3167.56] I am the light -[3167.56 --> 3168.10] of the world. -[3169.10 --> 3170.34] But that same Jesus -[3170.34 --> 3170.98] who says, -[3171.06 --> 3171.62] I am the light -[3171.62 --> 3172.10] of the world, -[3172.38 --> 3173.22] in John 8, -[3173.30 --> 3173.54] he says, -[3173.62 --> 3174.14] I am the light -[3174.14 --> 3174.54] of the world. -[3174.62 --> 3175.52] Whoever follows me -[3175.52 --> 3176.24] will never walk -[3176.24 --> 3176.68] in darkness, -[3176.68 --> 3177.28] but will have -[3177.28 --> 3177.70] the light -[3177.70 --> 3178.28] of life. -[3178.70 --> 3179.56] That same Jesus -[3179.56 --> 3180.00] who says, -[3180.12 --> 3180.54] I am the light -[3180.54 --> 3180.96] of the world, -[3181.20 --> 3182.04] stands in front -[3182.04 --> 3183.28] of you as his disciples -[3183.28 --> 3183.84] and says, -[3184.00 --> 3185.08] you are the light -[3185.08 --> 3186.08] of the world. -[3187.06 --> 3188.00] This is Matthew 5, -[3188.18 --> 3189.04] you are the light -[3189.04 --> 3189.52] of the world. -[3189.62 --> 3190.34] A town built -[3190.34 --> 3190.78] on a hill -[3190.78 --> 3191.52] cannot be hidden. -[3192.18 --> 3192.80] Neither do people -[3192.80 --> 3193.42] light a lamp -[3193.42 --> 3194.38] and put it under a bowl. -[3194.80 --> 3195.06] Instead, -[3195.22 --> 3196.22] they put it on its stand -[3196.22 --> 3196.90] and it gives light -[3196.90 --> 3198.00] to everyone in the house. -[3198.18 --> 3198.96] In the same way, -[3199.26 --> 3199.90] let your light -[3199.90 --> 3201.00] shine before others -[3201.00 --> 3202.08] that they may see -[3202.08 --> 3202.84] your good deeds -[3202.84 --> 3204.28] and glorify your Father -[3204.28 --> 3205.30] in heaven. -[3209.44 --> 3212.18] Part of what we do -[3212.18 --> 3213.44] in their gathering -[3213.44 --> 3216.38] is to learn more about -[3216.38 --> 3217.22] and to clarify -[3217.22 --> 3218.68] for ourselves -[3218.68 --> 3220.52] the redemption of God -[3220.52 --> 3221.28] and the mystery -[3221.28 --> 3222.66] of God's gospel -[3222.66 --> 3223.46] being applied -[3223.46 --> 3225.36] to us as believers -[3225.36 --> 3227.64] so that we can go -[3227.64 --> 3228.94] from this place -[3228.94 --> 3231.16] carrying that message -[3231.16 --> 3234.62] but I also think -[3234.62 --> 3236.68] that sometimes -[3236.68 --> 3239.28] we forget, -[3239.66 --> 3240.74] as Pete prayed, -[3241.74 --> 3242.66] we forget -[3242.66 --> 3245.02] that this gospel message -[3245.02 --> 3246.88] carries within it -[3246.88 --> 3248.40] the power of God -[3248.40 --> 3249.40] unto salvation. -[3250.08 --> 3251.06] Romans 1.16. -[3252.16 --> 3253.10] And that's because -[3253.10 --> 3254.34] Christ himself, -[3254.66 --> 3255.82] the eternal word, -[3256.12 --> 3256.96] is present -[3256.96 --> 3258.28] in God's word -[3258.28 --> 3258.92] to us. -[3259.20 --> 3260.10] Christ himself -[3260.10 --> 3261.72] is available -[3261.72 --> 3263.40] in all his saving power -[3263.40 --> 3265.48] through this word, -[3265.64 --> 3266.86] through this message -[3266.86 --> 3268.34] that we carry. -[3269.70 --> 3270.78] God's power -[3270.78 --> 3273.30] to transform lives, -[3273.70 --> 3275.70] to raise dead hearts -[3275.70 --> 3277.34] and give them new life, -[3277.46 --> 3278.10] God's power -[3278.10 --> 3279.10] to take us -[3279.10 --> 3280.06] from our being dead -[3280.06 --> 3280.94] and our transgressions -[3280.94 --> 3281.44] and sins -[3281.44 --> 3282.98] and transforming us -[3282.98 --> 3284.82] into a new creation -[3284.82 --> 3285.26] in him, -[3285.44 --> 3286.86] the power of the truth -[3286.86 --> 3287.72] that Jesus lived -[3287.72 --> 3288.80] the life I should have lived -[3288.80 --> 3289.64] and died the death -[3289.64 --> 3290.42] that I deserve, -[3290.50 --> 3292.36] the power that raised God -[3292.36 --> 3293.16] from the dead -[3293.16 --> 3294.92] and has transformed -[3294.92 --> 3296.44] each and every one of us -[3296.44 --> 3296.84] who believe, -[3296.90 --> 3298.44] that power is available -[3298.44 --> 3299.22] to you -[3299.22 --> 3300.38] in your speaking, -[3300.74 --> 3301.90] in your declaring, -[3302.22 --> 3303.40] in your proclaiming, -[3303.48 --> 3304.38] in your lighting -[3304.38 --> 3305.14] the way -[3305.14 --> 3306.18] back to God. -[3307.92 --> 3308.88] At the word of God, -[3308.96 --> 3309.52] the gospel -[3309.52 --> 3311.16] is a message -[3311.16 --> 3312.08] powerfully -[3312.08 --> 3313.02] and fully -[3313.02 --> 3313.96] incarnated -[3313.96 --> 3314.90] in the person -[3314.90 --> 3315.48] of Jesus -[3315.48 --> 3316.66] and then, -[3316.86 --> 3318.02] because of that, -[3318.28 --> 3319.32] is incarnated -[3319.32 --> 3319.96] in the life -[3319.96 --> 3320.78] and the words -[3320.78 --> 3321.50] and the deeds -[3321.50 --> 3323.30] of us, -[3324.02 --> 3324.78] his church, -[3325.40 --> 3325.94] the body. -[3328.24 --> 3329.12] As the church -[3329.12 --> 3329.98] then attends -[3329.98 --> 3331.30] to the word of God -[3331.30 --> 3332.02] and to fellowship, -[3332.32 --> 3333.26] gathering and growing, -[3333.44 --> 3334.20] to the Lord's Supper, -[3334.34 --> 3335.26] gathering and growing, -[3335.52 --> 3336.16] and to prayer, -[3336.34 --> 3337.22] gathering and growing, -[3337.58 --> 3338.92] it's built up, -[3339.00 --> 3340.02] we are built up -[3340.02 --> 3340.60] in the life -[3340.60 --> 3341.18] of the Spirit -[3341.18 --> 3343.52] and sent out. -[3344.70 --> 3345.02] And actually, -[3345.14 --> 3345.46] Goheen, -[3345.58 --> 3346.46] he calls this -[3346.46 --> 3348.62] the bipolar orientation -[3348.62 --> 3349.58] of the church. -[3350.22 --> 3350.46] That is, -[3350.50 --> 3351.36] the church must be -[3351.36 --> 3353.60] inward and outward facing. -[3354.30 --> 3355.58] The inward life -[3355.58 --> 3357.64] strengthens the kingdom life -[3357.64 --> 3359.48] so that it is vitally connected -[3359.48 --> 3361.06] to its outward manifestation. -[3362.12 --> 3362.48] Again, -[3362.90 --> 3363.56] our gathering -[3363.56 --> 3364.62] and growing -[3364.62 --> 3365.70] and going -[3365.70 --> 3367.06] all exists -[3367.06 --> 3368.36] together. -[3369.46 --> 3370.94] And this missionary identity -[3370.94 --> 3372.14] of the church, -[3372.24 --> 3373.42] this sent reality -[3373.42 --> 3374.78] for us, -[3375.14 --> 3376.64] continues throughout. -[3376.74 --> 3377.98] That's the great commission -[3377.98 --> 3378.46] of Jesus, -[3378.58 --> 3380.32] to go into all nations -[3380.32 --> 3381.08] and make disciples. -[3381.24 --> 3382.68] That's the great commission -[3382.68 --> 3383.56] of Acts 1, -[3383.66 --> 3384.44] to be witnesses -[3384.44 --> 3386.46] to Judea and Samaria -[3386.46 --> 3387.20] and to the ends -[3387.20 --> 3387.72] of the earth, -[3388.02 --> 3389.58] filled with the Holy Spirit, -[3390.12 --> 3391.52] is to bring the light -[3391.52 --> 3394.02] of the gospel. -[3397.16 --> 3397.88] I don't know -[3397.88 --> 3398.56] how many of you -[3398.56 --> 3401.72] are currently watching -[3401.72 --> 3402.54] or have already -[3402.54 --> 3403.44] given up on -[3403.44 --> 3405.04] the Rings of Power series -[3405.04 --> 3406.18] on Amazon Prime. -[3408.26 --> 3409.82] If you're a Tolkien fan, -[3410.40 --> 3412.14] probably won't like -[3412.14 --> 3412.86] the TV show -[3412.86 --> 3414.54] because it's been -[3414.54 --> 3415.52] kind of disappointing, -[3415.72 --> 3416.28] to be honest. -[3417.14 --> 3418.48] But one of the things -[3418.48 --> 3419.04] they get right, -[3419.10 --> 3419.82] and this was in the most -[3419.82 --> 3420.40] recent episode -[3420.40 --> 3421.24] from this past week, -[3421.24 --> 3424.70] one of the characters -[3424.70 --> 3425.96] is finally standing up -[3425.96 --> 3426.94] and has realized -[3426.94 --> 3427.96] who Sauron is -[3427.96 --> 3428.56] and he speaks -[3428.56 --> 3429.64] with one of the other characters -[3429.64 --> 3432.10] and they finally get it right -[3432.10 --> 3433.14] and this was Tolkien's point -[3433.14 --> 3433.62] all along. -[3434.20 --> 3435.36] The character said, -[3435.52 --> 3436.10] Celebrimbor, -[3436.26 --> 3437.36] the only thing -[3437.36 --> 3438.76] that defeats the dark -[3438.76 --> 3440.80] is the light. -[3442.38 --> 3443.04] And then he says, -[3443.12 --> 3444.04] the darker the night, -[3444.76 --> 3446.10] the greater the light -[3446.10 --> 3447.00] cuts through it. -[3448.78 --> 3449.68] That's what we do. -[3449.68 --> 3452.60] We shine the light -[3452.60 --> 3453.20] of the gospel -[3453.20 --> 3454.72] into the darkness -[3454.72 --> 3455.94] because the only thing -[3455.94 --> 3457.10] that defeats the dark -[3457.10 --> 3458.44] is the light. -[3458.78 --> 3459.86] And Jesus, -[3460.34 --> 3461.24] the light of the world, -[3461.40 --> 3462.42] has made you -[3462.42 --> 3463.58] a light -[3463.58 --> 3464.94] for the world. -[3466.66 --> 3468.12] We are sent, -[3468.26 --> 3469.22] we go -[3469.22 --> 3471.18] to reveal. -[3472.40 --> 3473.28] And then lastly, -[3473.90 --> 3474.94] our going -[3474.94 --> 3477.22] is for contrasting. -[3478.56 --> 3479.54] The church -[3479.54 --> 3481.48] is a contrast -[3481.48 --> 3482.20] community. -[3483.48 --> 3484.42] What does Jesus say? -[3484.52 --> 3485.08] Jesus says, -[3485.44 --> 3486.24] You are the salt -[3486.24 --> 3486.84] of the earth, -[3486.94 --> 3487.54] but if salt -[3487.54 --> 3488.78] loses its saltiness, -[3488.94 --> 3489.64] how can it be -[3489.64 --> 3490.48] made salty again? -[3491.02 --> 3491.30] And again, -[3491.34 --> 3491.54] he says, -[3491.60 --> 3492.06] You are the light -[3492.06 --> 3492.58] of the world. -[3492.86 --> 3493.48] A town built -[3493.48 --> 3493.82] on a hill -[3493.82 --> 3494.44] cannot be hidden. -[3494.56 --> 3495.36] In the same way, -[3495.46 --> 3496.10] let your light -[3496.10 --> 3497.20] shine before others -[3497.20 --> 3498.22] that they may see -[3498.22 --> 3498.92] your good deeds -[3498.92 --> 3500.04] and glorify God. -[3500.86 --> 3501.74] Jesus calls -[3501.74 --> 3502.50] his disciples -[3502.50 --> 3503.52] salt and light, -[3503.72 --> 3504.32] which means -[3504.32 --> 3505.10] that they are living -[3505.10 --> 3505.80] in a way -[3505.80 --> 3507.32] that contrasts -[3507.32 --> 3508.14] the world's -[3508.14 --> 3510.08] decay and darkness. -[3511.50 --> 3512.24] The church's -[3512.24 --> 3513.66] distinct life together, -[3513.76 --> 3514.32] our distinct -[3514.32 --> 3515.10] gathering and -[3515.10 --> 3515.80] growing together, -[3516.12 --> 3517.56] reveals God's -[3517.56 --> 3518.90] kingdom values. -[3519.50 --> 3520.12] This is what Paul -[3520.12 --> 3521.32] means in Romans 12. -[3521.42 --> 3521.62] He says, -[3521.76 --> 3522.40] Do not conform -[3522.40 --> 3523.02] to the pattern -[3523.02 --> 3523.54] of this world, -[3523.64 --> 3524.48] but be transformed -[3524.48 --> 3525.50] by the renewing -[3525.50 --> 3526.04] of your mind. -[3526.94 --> 3528.24] Paul calls the church -[3528.24 --> 3529.54] to be transformed -[3529.54 --> 3530.80] by God's truth -[3530.80 --> 3532.46] rather than conforming -[3532.46 --> 3533.26] to the ideas -[3533.26 --> 3533.78] of the world. -[3533.78 --> 3535.20] And it's this -[3535.20 --> 3536.62] non-conformist -[3536.62 --> 3538.88] idea and reflection. -[3539.36 --> 3539.82] It's our -[3539.82 --> 3540.90] counter-cultural -[3540.90 --> 3542.02] reality -[3542.02 --> 3543.02] in the midst -[3543.02 --> 3543.78] of the world -[3543.78 --> 3544.92] that makes the church -[3544.92 --> 3546.92] a contrast community. -[3548.16 --> 3548.98] The communal -[3548.98 --> 3550.04] life of the church -[3550.04 --> 3551.76] manifests the coming -[3551.76 --> 3552.80] of the kingdom, -[3552.96 --> 3553.82] the breaking in -[3553.82 --> 3554.80] of God -[3554.80 --> 3555.56] into the world. -[3556.40 --> 3557.06] And so mission, -[3557.42 --> 3558.10] first of all, -[3558.30 --> 3559.02] is the life -[3559.02 --> 3560.04] of this contrast -[3560.04 --> 3560.68] community -[3560.68 --> 3561.64] lived out, -[3561.74 --> 3562.62] the radiant -[3562.62 --> 3564.42] and resplendent -[3564.42 --> 3565.12] demonstration -[3565.12 --> 3565.90] of God's -[3565.90 --> 3567.18] creational intent -[3567.18 --> 3568.26] for human life -[3568.26 --> 3569.18] and the goal -[3569.18 --> 3569.96] that God has -[3569.96 --> 3570.58] for redemption -[3570.58 --> 3572.88] of all of history. -[3575.46 --> 3576.78] And so we look -[3576.78 --> 3578.04] particular -[3578.04 --> 3579.72] and peculiar. -[3581.46 --> 3582.38] Philippians 2, -[3582.48 --> 3583.26] one of my favorite -[3583.26 --> 3585.12] chapters in the whole Bible, -[3585.78 --> 3587.44] after showing us -[3587.44 --> 3588.46] a beautiful picture -[3588.46 --> 3589.04] of Christ, -[3589.20 --> 3589.66] it says, -[3589.78 --> 3590.14] Your attitude -[3590.14 --> 3590.94] should be the same -[3590.94 --> 3592.10] as that of Christ Jesus. -[3592.10 --> 3592.70] And then we get -[3592.70 --> 3593.38] this excellent -[3593.38 --> 3594.12] and amazing -[3594.12 --> 3595.20] Christ hymn -[3595.20 --> 3596.02] where it describes -[3596.02 --> 3597.26] how Christ emptied -[3597.26 --> 3597.82] himself. -[3599.18 --> 3600.02] He took on -[3600.02 --> 3601.02] the form, -[3601.16 --> 3602.04] the flesh -[3602.04 --> 3603.30] of a human being -[3603.30 --> 3603.94] and he became -[3603.94 --> 3604.46] obedient, -[3604.72 --> 3605.48] even obedient -[3605.48 --> 3606.32] unto death -[3606.32 --> 3607.36] on a cross. -[3608.34 --> 3609.14] And because of that, -[3609.22 --> 3610.16] God exalts him -[3610.16 --> 3611.26] to the highest place -[3611.26 --> 3611.94] that at the name -[3611.94 --> 3612.36] of Jesus -[3612.36 --> 3613.34] every knee should bow -[3613.34 --> 3614.08] and tongue confess -[3614.08 --> 3615.28] in heaven and on earth -[3615.28 --> 3615.92] and under the earth -[3615.92 --> 3616.78] that Jesus Christ -[3616.78 --> 3617.28] is Lord -[3617.28 --> 3618.16] to the glory -[3618.16 --> 3618.70] of God -[3618.70 --> 3619.54] our Father. -[3619.54 --> 3621.60] and then we read, -[3622.88 --> 3624.30] Because of this truth, -[3624.92 --> 3626.42] because of who Jesus is -[3626.42 --> 3627.62] and what he has done, -[3628.96 --> 3629.82] do everything -[3629.82 --> 3630.70] without grumbling -[3630.70 --> 3631.44] or arguing -[3631.44 --> 3632.96] so that you may become -[3632.96 --> 3634.42] blameless and pure, -[3634.90 --> 3635.82] children of God -[3635.82 --> 3636.68] without fault -[3636.68 --> 3637.32] in a warped -[3637.32 --> 3638.58] and crooked generation. -[3639.14 --> 3640.78] And then you will shine -[3640.78 --> 3641.82] like stars -[3641.82 --> 3643.08] in the sky. -[3643.46 --> 3644.12] The older way -[3644.12 --> 3644.94] of translating that -[3644.94 --> 3646.00] is then you will shine -[3646.00 --> 3646.70] like stars -[3646.70 --> 3647.34] in the universe -[3647.34 --> 3648.90] as you hold out -[3648.90 --> 3650.26] the word of life. -[3651.52 --> 3652.56] In contrast -[3652.56 --> 3655.08] to a warped -[3655.08 --> 3656.46] and crooked generation, -[3657.20 --> 3658.94] church is called out -[3658.94 --> 3660.60] to be blameless -[3660.60 --> 3661.76] and pure. -[3664.76 --> 3665.44] Picture -[3665.44 --> 3668.08] a lush, -[3668.84 --> 3669.30] vibrant, -[3669.82 --> 3670.66] beautiful -[3670.66 --> 3671.58] oasis -[3671.58 --> 3672.48] of a garden -[3672.48 --> 3673.88] in the middle -[3673.88 --> 3675.52] of a barren desert. -[3676.70 --> 3677.80] The dry, -[3678.02 --> 3678.76] cracked earth -[3678.76 --> 3679.72] surrounds it, -[3680.18 --> 3680.72] lifeless -[3680.72 --> 3681.88] and harsh, -[3682.00 --> 3682.82] but this garden -[3682.82 --> 3684.22] stands out, -[3684.36 --> 3685.42] rich in color, -[3685.82 --> 3686.80] brimming with life -[3686.80 --> 3687.48] and fruit -[3687.48 --> 3688.36] and flowers. -[3689.22 --> 3689.76] The garden -[3689.76 --> 3690.60] doesn't blend in -[3690.60 --> 3691.44] with its surroundings. -[3691.68 --> 3691.94] In fact, -[3691.98 --> 3693.04] it contrasts -[3693.04 --> 3694.10] so hard -[3694.10 --> 3695.30] with the desolation. -[3696.36 --> 3696.76] And people -[3696.76 --> 3697.84] passing by -[3697.84 --> 3699.08] can't help -[3699.08 --> 3700.02] but be drawn -[3700.02 --> 3700.94] to its beauty -[3700.94 --> 3702.40] and its nourishment. -[3702.40 --> 3705.36] our going -[3705.36 --> 3706.04] is to be -[3706.04 --> 3706.58] that garden -[3706.58 --> 3708.14] in the desert. -[3709.46 --> 3710.08] And in a world -[3710.08 --> 3710.98] that often feels -[3710.98 --> 3711.46] dry -[3711.46 --> 3712.46] and lifeless, -[3712.60 --> 3713.70] full of selfishness -[3713.70 --> 3714.38] and sin -[3714.38 --> 3715.34] and despair, -[3715.54 --> 3716.14] the church -[3716.14 --> 3717.16] ought to be -[3717.16 --> 3718.40] one that stands -[3718.40 --> 3719.38] out as vibrant -[3719.38 --> 3720.50] and life-giving -[3720.50 --> 3721.40] community. -[3722.52 --> 3723.20] And by living -[3723.20 --> 3723.96] according to -[3723.96 --> 3725.16] God's values -[3725.16 --> 3726.56] and as a contrast -[3726.56 --> 3727.28] into the world, -[3727.36 --> 3728.04] we offer -[3728.04 --> 3729.16] the beauty -[3729.16 --> 3730.40] of the gospel. -[3730.40 --> 3732.64] we offer -[3732.64 --> 3733.44] God's life -[3733.44 --> 3734.74] and his salvation -[3734.74 --> 3735.88] to those around us. -[3737.66 --> 3738.76] Just like the garden -[3738.76 --> 3739.54] doesn't hide -[3739.54 --> 3740.40] its flourishing -[3740.40 --> 3741.38] life, -[3742.04 --> 3742.66] the church's -[3742.66 --> 3743.72] light and love -[3743.72 --> 3744.98] stands out -[3744.98 --> 3746.20] and it draws -[3746.20 --> 3746.90] others -[3746.90 --> 3747.78] to the hope -[3747.78 --> 3748.98] found in -[3748.98 --> 3749.82] God. -[3752.14 --> 3752.94] You, -[3754.00 --> 3754.66] we, -[3755.04 --> 3755.40] together, -[3756.26 --> 3756.80] are a -[3756.80 --> 3758.04] sent community, -[3758.88 --> 3759.76] sent to -[3759.76 --> 3760.20] bless -[3760.20 --> 3761.24] the world, -[3761.66 --> 3762.14] sent to -[3762.14 --> 3762.98] reveal -[3762.98 --> 3763.66] God's -[3763.66 --> 3764.30] presence, -[3764.50 --> 3764.92] sent to -[3764.92 --> 3765.54] show -[3765.54 --> 3766.50] the way -[3766.50 --> 3767.26] back to -[3767.26 --> 3767.84] the Father, -[3767.98 --> 3768.72] to reveal -[3768.72 --> 3769.54] the light -[3769.54 --> 3770.18] of the world, -[3770.38 --> 3771.18] and sent -[3771.18 --> 3772.48] as a contrast -[3772.48 --> 3773.32] so that people -[3773.32 --> 3773.92] might look -[3773.92 --> 3774.46] at you -[3774.46 --> 3775.22] and say, -[3775.80 --> 3777.02] who is -[3777.02 --> 3778.02] this God? -[3778.58 --> 3779.68] Who is -[3779.68 --> 3780.94] this man? -[3782.52 --> 3783.20] Why -[3783.20 --> 3784.00] do you -[3784.00 --> 3784.48] do -[3784.48 --> 3785.36] what you -[3785.36 --> 3785.70] do? -[3785.70 --> 3787.42] it is -[3787.42 --> 3788.46] absolutely -[3788.46 --> 3789.70] weird -[3789.70 --> 3790.68] and makes -[3790.68 --> 3791.30] no sense -[3791.30 --> 3791.68] to me -[3791.68 --> 3792.22] and yet -[3792.22 --> 3792.52] there's -[3792.52 --> 3792.88] something -[3792.88 --> 3793.40] in my -[3793.40 --> 3793.68] heart -[3793.68 --> 3794.68] that sings -[3794.68 --> 3796.18] when I -[3796.18 --> 3796.50] hear you -[3796.50 --> 3796.84] speak. -[3798.74 --> 3799.36] That's -[3799.36 --> 3799.72] why we -[3799.72 --> 3799.98] go. -[3801.10 --> 3801.60] That's -[3801.60 --> 3802.14] how we -[3802.14 --> 3802.44] go. -[3803.82 --> 3804.14] And -[3804.14 --> 3804.50] together -[3804.50 --> 3805.22] I pray -[3805.22 --> 3806.72] that we -[3806.72 --> 3807.18] would -[3807.18 --> 3808.00] go. -[3809.08 --> 3809.56] Amen? -[3810.86 --> 3811.46] Amen. -[3811.56 --> 3811.90] That was a -[3811.90 --> 3812.44] false ending. -[3812.44 --> 3814.42] because you -[3814.42 --> 3814.84] need to say -[3814.84 --> 3815.42] amen to -[3815.42 --> 3815.68] yes, -[3815.72 --> 3815.98] I want -[3815.98 --> 3816.32] to go. -[3817.50 --> 3817.90] That's -[3817.90 --> 3818.14] your -[3818.14 --> 3818.66] calling. -[3819.66 --> 3819.94] Don't -[3819.94 --> 3820.26] look for -[3820.26 --> 3820.66] me to -[3820.66 --> 3820.94] do it -[3820.94 --> 3821.36] for you. -[3821.86 --> 3822.12] Don't -[3822.12 --> 3822.44] look for -[3822.44 --> 3822.88] Kevin to -[3822.88 --> 3823.12] do it -[3823.12 --> 3823.50] for you. -[3823.74 --> 3823.94] Don't -[3823.94 --> 3824.22] look for -[3824.22 --> 3824.70] Josh to -[3824.70 --> 3824.92] do it -[3824.92 --> 3825.22] for you, -[3825.26 --> 3825.42] although -[3825.42 --> 3826.22] Josh does -[3826.22 --> 3826.62] an excellent -[3826.62 --> 3827.18] job at -[3827.18 --> 3827.36] it. -[3827.94 --> 3828.16] Sorry, -[3828.26 --> 3828.42] Kevin. -[3830.52 --> 3830.96] This -[3830.96 --> 3831.56] is all -[3831.56 --> 3832.50] of us -[3832.50 --> 3833.94] sent -[3833.94 --> 3834.86] to go. -[3836.08 --> 3836.44] And so -[3836.44 --> 3836.74] when you -[3836.74 --> 3837.42] say amen, -[3838.46 --> 3839.04] know that -[3839.04 --> 3839.54] you are -[3839.54 --> 3840.30] going with -[3840.30 --> 3841.00] God, -[3841.20 --> 3841.84] who goes -[3841.84 --> 3842.34] with you -[3842.34 --> 3842.74] and has -[3842.74 --> 3843.38] sent you -[3843.38 --> 3843.94] in the -[3843.94 --> 3844.62] power of -[3844.62 --> 3845.02] the Holy -[3845.02 --> 3845.40] Spirit. -[3847.08 --> 3847.66] Go -[3847.66 --> 3848.46] because -[3848.46 --> 3849.10] he -[3849.10 --> 3849.98] has -[3849.98 --> 3850.68] said -[3850.68 --> 3851.48] go. -[3852.38 --> 3852.96] And it's -[3852.96 --> 3853.28] in your -[3853.28 --> 3854.06] going with -[3854.06 --> 3855.10] him that -[3855.10 --> 3855.84] you find -[3855.84 --> 3856.66] true -[3856.66 --> 3857.66] life. -[3859.62 --> 3860.32] And then -[3860.32 --> 3860.62] I can -[3860.62 --> 3861.10] promise -[3861.10 --> 3862.80] as you -[3862.80 --> 3863.10] go, -[3863.24 --> 3863.56] you will -[3863.56 --> 3864.56] see me -[3864.56 --> 3865.64] and Kevin -[3865.64 --> 3866.36] and Josh -[3866.36 --> 3866.92] and I pray -[3866.92 --> 3867.72] every one -[3867.72 --> 3868.00] of you -[3868.00 --> 3868.48] on that -[3868.48 --> 3868.84] same -[3868.84 --> 3869.52] journey -[3869.52 --> 3870.40] together. -[3870.40 --> 3872.14] now -[3872.14 --> 3872.44] amen. -[3873.22 --> 3873.84] Let's -[3873.84 --> 3874.00] pray -[3874.00 --> 3874.40] together. -[3876.78 --> 3877.38] Holy -[3877.38 --> 3877.68] God, -[3877.78 --> 3878.00] holy -[3878.00 --> 3878.38] God, -[3878.70 --> 3879.12] holy -[3879.12 --> 3879.50] God, -[3879.84 --> 3880.04] you -[3880.04 --> 3880.26] have -[3880.26 --> 3880.62] made -[3880.62 --> 3881.08] us -[3881.08 --> 3881.82] a -[3881.82 --> 3882.22] royal -[3882.22 --> 3883.06] priesthood, -[3883.14 --> 3883.70] a holy -[3883.70 --> 3884.20] nation, -[3884.34 --> 3884.54] your -[3884.54 --> 3885.18] special -[3885.18 --> 3885.94] possession, -[3886.08 --> 3886.38] a people -[3886.38 --> 3886.90] belonging -[3886.90 --> 3887.38] to you -[3887.38 --> 3887.72] that we -[3887.72 --> 3887.98] might -[3887.98 --> 3888.44] declare -[3888.44 --> 3889.02] your -[3889.02 --> 3889.52] praises -[3889.52 --> 3890.12] and so -[3890.12 --> 3890.44] now -[3890.44 --> 3890.90] send -[3890.90 --> 3891.26] us -[3891.26 --> 3891.58] out -[3891.58 --> 3892.00] to -[3892.00 --> 3892.42] declare -[3892.42 --> 3892.80] those -[3892.80 --> 3893.24] praises. -[3893.44 --> 3893.68] Send -[3893.68 --> 3893.96] us -[3893.96 --> 3894.18] out -[3894.18 --> 3894.70] in the -[3894.70 --> 3895.00] power -[3895.00 --> 3895.44] of your -[3895.44 --> 3895.70] name. -[3896.26 --> 3896.52] Send -[3896.52 --> 3896.76] us -[3896.76 --> 3896.98] out -[3896.98 --> 3897.20] no -[3897.20 --> 3897.58] longer -[3897.58 --> 3898.42] slaves -[3898.42 --> 3898.94] to -[3898.94 --> 3899.42] sin -[3899.42 --> 3899.74] and -[3899.74 --> 3900.56] brokenness -[3900.56 --> 3900.82] but -[3900.82 --> 3901.80] made -[3901.80 --> 3902.30] new -[3902.30 --> 3902.74] in -[3902.74 --> 3903.30] life, -[3903.56 --> 3904.26] transformed -[3904.26 --> 3905.28] with the -[3905.28 --> 3905.68] power -[3905.68 --> 3906.08] of the -[3906.08 --> 3906.28] Holy -[3906.28 --> 3906.60] Spirit -[3906.60 --> 3907.10] to -[3907.10 --> 3907.96] declare -[3907.96 --> 3908.50] your -[3908.50 --> 3909.16] gospel -[3909.16 --> 3910.12] truth. -[3911.34 --> 3912.04] Send -[3912.04 --> 3912.28] us -[3912.28 --> 3912.52] out -[3912.52 --> 3912.68] that -[3912.68 --> 3912.84] we -[3912.84 --> 3913.14] might -[3913.14 --> 3913.62] shine -[3913.62 --> 3913.94] like -[3913.94 --> 3914.50] stars -[3914.50 --> 3915.24] in the -[3915.24 --> 3915.62] universe -[3915.62 --> 3916.02] as we -[3916.02 --> 3916.38] hold -[3916.38 --> 3916.66] out -[3916.66 --> 3916.88] the -[3916.88 --> 3917.22] word -[3917.22 --> 3917.96] of -[3917.96 --> 3918.74] life. -[3920.40 --> 3921.06] God, -[3921.14 --> 3921.26] your -[3921.26 --> 3921.76] call -[3921.76 --> 3922.98] is -[3922.98 --> 3923.24] about -[3923.24 --> 3923.76] so -[3923.76 --> 3924.54] much -[3924.54 --> 3924.98] more -[3924.98 --> 3925.22] than -[3925.22 --> 3925.58] this -[3925.58 --> 3925.98] moment -[3925.98 --> 3926.30] right -[3926.30 --> 3926.74] here. -[3927.56 --> 3928.16] It's -[3928.16 --> 3928.38] about -[3928.38 --> 3928.74] every -[3928.74 --> 3929.18] moment -[3929.18 --> 3929.90] from -[3929.90 --> 3930.16] this -[3930.16 --> 3930.48] place -[3930.48 --> 3930.76] going -[3930.76 --> 3931.18] forward. -[3932.14 --> 3932.24] And -[3932.24 --> 3932.50] so, -[3932.56 --> 3932.98] so -[3932.98 --> 3933.68] fill -[3933.68 --> 3934.08] us -[3934.08 --> 3934.32] with -[3934.32 --> 3934.76] wonder -[3934.76 --> 3935.02] that -[3935.02 --> 3935.22] we -[3935.22 --> 3936.38] run -[3936.38 --> 3937.46] headlong -[3937.46 --> 3937.96] into -[3937.96 --> 3938.26] the -[3938.26 --> 3938.66] journey -[3938.66 --> 3939.00] of -[3939.00 --> 3939.26] faith -[3939.26 --> 3939.70] even -[3939.70 --> 3940.08] though -[3940.08 --> 3940.34] we -[3940.34 --> 3940.58] may -[3940.58 --> 3940.84] not -[3940.84 --> 3941.22] know -[3941.22 --> 3941.84] where -[3941.84 --> 3942.02] you -[3942.02 --> 3942.18] are -[3942.18 --> 3942.50] calling -[3942.50 --> 3942.86] us. -[3944.18 --> 3944.66] But -[3944.66 --> 3944.76] we -[3944.76 --> 3944.92] go -[3944.92 --> 3945.22] to be -[3945.22 --> 3945.34] a -[3945.34 --> 3945.64] blessing. -[3946.48 --> 3946.58] And -[3946.58 --> 3946.74] so -[3946.74 --> 3947.02] bless -[3947.02 --> 3947.18] us -[3947.18 --> 3947.34] we -[3947.34 --> 3947.58] pray -[3947.58 --> 3947.84] in -[3947.84 --> 3948.14] Jesus -[3948.14 --> 3948.54] name. -[3949.14 --> 3949.44] Amen. -[3951.76 --> 3954.02] I -[3954.02 --> 3954.20] think -[3954.20 --> 3954.36] the -[3954.36 --> 3954.52] one -[3954.52 --> 3954.74] thing -[3954.74 --> 3954.92] that -[3954.92 --> 3955.14] can -[3955.14 --> 3955.66] stop -[3955.66 --> 3956.16] me -[3956.16 --> 3956.56] anyway -[3956.56 --> 3956.84] from -[3956.84 --> 3957.20] going -[3957.20 --> 3957.66] is -[3957.66 --> 3958.02] fear. -[3958.92 --> 3959.02] And -[3959.02 --> 3959.22] this -[3959.22 --> 3959.54] song -[3959.54 --> 3959.94] just -[3959.94 --> 3960.38] reminds -[3960.38 --> 3960.62] us -[3960.62 --> 3960.80] that -[3960.80 --> 3960.98] we -[3960.98 --> 3961.22] are -[3961.22 --> 3961.54] a -[3961.54 --> 3961.80] child -[3961.80 --> 3962.00] of -[3962.00 --> 3962.28] God -[3962.28 --> 3962.72] that -[3962.72 --> 3963.34] he -[3963.34 --> 3963.74] is -[3963.74 --> 3964.70] all -[3964.70 --> 3965.14] powerful -[3965.14 --> 3965.44] and -[3965.44 --> 3965.78] all -[3965.78 --> 3966.70] omnipotent -[3966.70 --> 3967.22] and we -[3967.22 --> 3967.50] don't -[3967.50 --> 3967.72] have -[3967.72 --> 3967.92] to -[3967.92 --> 3968.16] be -[3968.16 --> 3968.52] afraid. -[3968.52 --> 3969.14] Let's -[3969.14 --> 3969.38] stand -[3969.38 --> 3969.56] up -[3969.56 --> 3969.74] and -[3969.74 --> 3969.92] sing. -[3981.76 --> 4011.76] -[4011.76 --> 4015.76] From my enemies -[4015.76 --> 4021.52] Till all my fears are gone -[4021.52 --> 4028.02] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[4028.02 --> 4034.80] I am a child of God -[4034.80 --> 4041.08] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[4041.08 --> 4047.66] I am a child of God -[4047.66 --> 4060.16] From my mother's womb -[4060.16 --> 4063.68] You have chosen me -[4063.68 --> 4069.16] Love has called my name -[4069.16 --> 4072.82] I've been born again -[4072.82 --> 4075.16] Into your family -[4075.16 --> 4081.66] Your blood goes through my name -[4081.66 --> 4087.74] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[4087.74 --> 4094.32] I am a child of God -[4094.32 --> 4100.46] I'm no longer a slave to fear -[4100.46 --> 4106.32] I am a child of God -[4106.32 --> 4124.32] You slid the sea so I could walk right through it -[4124.32 --> 4128.32] My fears were drowning for them alone -[4128.32 --> 4134.90] You rescued me so I could stand and sing -[4134.90 --> 4141.48] I am a child of God -[4141.48 --> 4147.90] You slid the sea so I could walk right through it -[4147.90 --> 4151.90] My fears were drowning in perfect love -[4151.90 --> 4158.48] You rescued me so I could stand and sing -[4158.48 --> 4163.48] I am a child of God -[4163.48 --> 4169.48] I am a child of God -[4169.48 --> 4180.06] I am a child of God -[4180.06 --> 4184.06] I am a child of God -[4184.06 --> 4192.64] I am a child of God -[4192.64 --> 4198.10] I am no longer a slave to fear -[4198.10 --> 4205.64] I am a child of God -[4205.64 --> 4219.06] Amen and amen. -[4219.06 --> 4219.14] Amen and amen. -[4219.24 --> 4223.96] As a child of God, you go with his blessing. -[4224.54 --> 4225.70] Go with his blessing. -[4225.90 --> 4229.16] Go also with an invitation to stick around after service -[4229.16 --> 4230.98] for a time of fellowship and encouragement. -[4231.70 --> 4233.46] There'll be refreshments available as well. -[4233.58 --> 4235.14] Connect with some of our ministries. -[4235.14 --> 4236.34] Connect with the leaders. -[4236.82 --> 4239.82] See how you can encourage them, support them, pray for them, -[4239.88 --> 4242.06] where you might plug in, how you might sign up, -[4242.40 --> 4251.52] as we can then together grow and go by our gathering in this place -[4251.52 --> 4252.52] and as a community. -[4252.92 --> 4255.04] Receive the blessing of our good God. -[4256.50 --> 4258.40] God, go before you to lead you. -[4259.14 --> 4261.06] God, go behind you to protect you. -[4261.68 --> 4263.52] God, go beneath you to support you. -[4263.52 --> 4266.10] And God, go beside you to befriend you. -[4266.72 --> 4268.42] Do not be afraid. -[4268.96 --> 4270.92] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[4271.28 --> 4277.36] Do not be afraid, but go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[4278.12 --> 4278.58] Amen. -[4278.58 --> 4297.80] I know He has been told -[4297.80 --> 4301.74] His blood that's ever guaranteed, -[4301.98 --> 4302.54] I believe. -[4302.54 --> 4306.66] I believe -[4306.66 --> 4313.16] My shame is taken away -[4313.16 --> 4316.62] My pain is filled in the pain -[4316.62 --> 4317.78] I believe -[4317.78 --> 4321.46] I believe -[4321.46 --> 4326.98] I'll praise the better -[4326.98 --> 4331.48] My Lord has conquered the grave -[4331.48 --> 4334.56] My Redeemer ends -[4334.56 --> 4338.52] My Redeemer ends -[4338.52 --> 4342.04] My Redeemer ends -[4342.04 --> 4346.56] My Redeemer ends -[4346.56 --> 4357.24] I know He rescued my soul -[4357.24 --> 4360.68] His blood has covered my sin -[4360.68 --> 4361.76] I believe -[4361.76 --> 4365.60] I believe -[4365.60 --> 4372.06] My shame is taken away -[4372.06 --> 4375.60] My pain is filled in His name -[4375.60 --> 4376.76] I believe -[4376.76 --> 4377.84] I believe -[4377.84 --> 4379.84] I believe -[4379.84 --> 4380.80] I believe -[4380.80 --> 4381.68] I believe -[4381.68 --> 4382.80] I believe -[4382.80 --> 4384.80] I believe -[4384.80 --> 4385.68] I believe -[4385.68 --> 4385.84] I believe -[4385.84 --> 4390.42] My God is covered to break -[4390.42 --> 4391.34] I believe -[4391.34 --> 4421.32] I redeem the Lamb -[4421.34 --> 4451.32] I redeem the Lamb -[4451.34 --> 4458.34] I redeem the Lamb -[4458.34 --> 4461.34] I redeem the Lamb -[4461.34 --> 4466.34] I redeem the Lamb -[4466.34 --> 4472.34] I redeem the Lamb -[4472.34 --> 4474.34] I redeem the Lamb -[4474.34 --> 4476.34] I redeem the Lamb -[4476.34 --> 4488.34] I redeem the Lamb -[4488.34 --> 4491.34] I redeem the Lamb -[4491.34 --> 4493.34] I redeem the Lamb -[4493.34 --> 4523.32] Thank you. -[4523.34 --> 4553.32] Thank you. -[4553.34 --> 4555.34] Thank you. -[4583.34 --> 4585.34] Thank you. -[4613.34 --> 4615.34] Thank you. -[4643.34 --> 4645.34] Thank you. diff --git a/Sunday Worship, Sep 8, 2024_summary.txt b/Sunday Worship, Sep 8, 2024_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0c742cd7c7cc0ae3c945c4c2712ba01a90917cbc..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, Sep 8, 2024_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,119 +0,0 @@ -• Introduction of staff members (Hans, Franz) -• Sponsorship by Trinity Western and Redeemer -• Giveaways with Lauren and Diego from Trinity Western -• Presentation by Trinity Western and Redeemer representatives -• Information about Redeemer University (programs, location, student body size, and academic opportunities) -• Redeemer's mission is to equip students for careers while serving God and glorifying him -• Community at Redeemer is welcoming and strives to make people feel at home -• Visitation opportunities available, with some costs covered by the university -• Emmanuel CRC youth event with 170+ students from BC in attendance -• Introduction of Kevin Lobert, Langley Emanuel CRC's youth pastor, and reactivate leadership team members -• Leadership team introduction -• Introduction of Caitlin, Eric, and Natasha -• Introducing Ezekiel and celebrating his arrival -• Recognition of volunteers and thanking specific individuals (Faye, Rachel, Matt, and Linda) -• Starting church with Pastor Chris and Jean Vieve leading worship -• Introduction to a morning session of worship -• Greeting and reception of God's presence -• Invitation to greet others around them -• Worship and singing praises to God -• Reflection on the loudness of music and cultural differences -• Offer of earplugs for those who may find the volume too loud -• Introduction to a youth group gathering -• Invitation to Father to meet with them and hold space and time -• Song of worship and praise to God as King -• Personal testimony of faith and trust in God's love and presence -• Call for the congregation to join in singing and praising God -• Repeated declarations of praise and worship to God -• The theme of the lighthouse and guidance in darkness -• Trusting God's promise to carry us safely through life -• Feeling safe and secure despite uncertainty -• The concept of peace in a troubled sea -• Fire as a symbol of God's presence and light -• The idea of leading others through storms -• Singing and crying out hallelujah to acknowledge God's holiness -• Shouting and screaming out God's message from the mountains -• Acknowledging God's nature and actions in life -• Submission to a higher power -• Acknowledging sin and humanity's fallen state -• God's preservation of the world despite human rebellion -• Promise of salvation through Jesus Christ -• Power of prayer and the Holy Spirit -• Redemption through faith in Jesus -• Worship and praise for God's sovereignty -• A person or group singing a song about freedom and redemption -• Introduction of a special offering for World Renew, a relief and development agency -• Description of World Renew's work in disaster relief and community development -• Invitation to children aged 3-5 to come forward and participate in worship -• Discussion about the uniqueness of church that day and how it can be fun to worship God in different ways -• Preparing for prayer and the Lord's blessing -• Praying for the congregation, youth, and leaders -• Thanking God for the Reactivate Youth event and its impact on the youth -• Asking for continued healing and strength for Peter, Emo, Ashley, and others in need -• Praying for community, world peace, justice, and righteousness to reign -• Prayers for the congregation and those unable to attend -• Request for God's presence and guidance in daily life -• Gratitude for Emmanuel Church's hospitality and generosity -• Sermon on Acts chapter one, focusing on Jesus as our great King -• Reference to previous weekend themes of reactivate and how Jesus is revealed to us -• Discussion of John the Baptist's baptism with water and the Holy Spirit -• Jesus' statement about receiving power when the Holy Spirit comes -• The ascension of Jesus into heaven and a promise to return -• A story from a past Bible study group on international students, particularly a Japanese student named Naoko's question about Jesus' current location and activities -• Overview of the main topics for the day: - • Jesus ruling the world with love, justice, and mercy - • Jesus interceding for believers as their children - • Jesus equipping believers through his spirit -• The disciples would have been confused and disappointed after Jesus' ascension into heaven -• The disciples had a specific expectation for Jesus' role, to be the new King David establishing Israel and making Jerusalem great again -• Acts 1 answers part of Naoko's question about where Jesus is, saying he is in heaven -• Heaven is depicted as an interlocked and interweaving entity with earth, not a disconnected place -• Jesus' ultimate purpose is the perfect unity of heaven and earth -• Jesus' rule over creation is with love, justice, and power. -• The Bible celebrates the authority and kingship of Jesus over creation. -• Jesus is above every name, authority, and spiritual force. -• All things are under Jesus' feet and no rival can take him down. -• The universe's indifference to humanity is contrasted with Jesus' loving rule. -• Jesus intercedes for believers at this very moment. -• God justifies those chosen by Him -• Jesus Christ died and was raised to life, now seated at the right hand of God interceding for us -• Jesus' priestly ministry includes interceding on our behalf and taking our concerns to God -• The artist Elizabeth Wang's depiction of Jesus as an intercessor -• Jesus is also equipping believers in heaven for mission and ministry through the power of the Holy Spirit -• The power of resurrection through the Holy Spirit is poured out on the church -• Jesus invites believers to do what he does, including prophetic words, priestly intercession, and kingly rule -• Every believer has a role in being witnesses for Christ, sharing his ministry and teaching others about God's word -• Teaching scripture is an essential task for the church today, especially in youth ministries -• The prophetic ministry of Jesus involves speaking God's word, which includes teaching and sharing the scriptures with others -• The prophetic ministry of Jesus involves sharing the gospel and speaking about why one believes in Jesus. -• Evangelism is a common fear, but it can be done by simply living an ordinary life as someone who loves Jesus. -• One doesn't need to go far away to find people who don't know Jesus or God's word; they are often close by, such as classmates, coworkers, or neighbors. -• As followers of Jesus, one is called to the ministry of being prophets and speaking God's word, but also invited into the priestly ministry of intercession. -• Intercession involves making one's life a living sacrifice and praying for those around them. -• Broken relationships and the importance of prayer -• Being a priest and interceding on behalf of others -• The call to be kings and queens, ruling with justice and love under Jesus' authority -• Recognizing one's areas of influence and leading well in those spaces -• Understanding that God has placed people or issues under one's authority -• A person in graduate school is studying to be a doctor and grappling with the challenges of being a Christian in the medical field. -• The concept of "the bright light of a life well lived" was discussed, referencing C.S. Lewis's idea that living under Jesus' authority can serve as powerful witness to His gospel. -• The importance of being intentional about sharing one's faith through ordinary actions and behaviors was highlighted. -• A passage from Acts 1 was read, emphasizing the return of Jesus in glory, power, justice, and wisdom, and the establishment of a perfectly just and loving world. -• Worshiping Jesus as the great high priest, prophet, and rightful king -• Expectations of receiving a new body and experiencing a world free from sin -• The role of being witnesses to Jesus until his return -• Prayer for guidance, power, and authority under Jesus' rule -• Acknowledging dependence on God's control and sovereignty -• Asking for eyes to see how lives are under His control -• Requesting the power of the Holy Spirit to be witnesses in ordinary ways -• Using words and actions to point others to Jesus Christ -• The speaker expresses deep devotion and longing for God -• The congregation sings worship songs, including "You Are the King" -• Pastor Dave Ford leads the group in a blessing prayer based on Matthew's Gospel -• The host thanks various individuals, including Pastor Dave and Luke from the band -• The meeting concludes with one final song and an invitation to receive God's blessing -• Invitation to sing a song -• Song lyrics about wanting to know and experience God's presence -• Benediction prayers for God's blessing and peace -• Message from "Reactivate" (concludes with prayer) -• Final message or encouragement related to faith and spirituality \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Sunday Worship, Sep 8, 2024_transcript.txt b/Sunday Worship, Sep 8, 2024_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 51b31ef68b04dbd82cdd0c38bbc13e6151731e50..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Sunday Worship, Sep 8, 2024_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1977 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 7.00] Who wants a box? -[7.00 --> 9.00] Who wants a box? -[9.00 --> 11.00] My name is Hans. -[11.00 --> 13.00] I am Franz. -[13.00 --> 15.00] And we are here to box you up. -[15.00 --> 17.00] We love you, Randy. -[17.00 --> 19.00] Have a great day. -[19.00 --> 34.00] So throughout the weekend, we've had Trinity Western and Redeemer here hanging out with -[34.00 --> 37.00] the students and they're sponsors of Reactivate and we love having them here. -[37.00 --> 42.00] And I want to invite Lauren and Diego up for the giveaways. -[42.00 --> 46.00] They have some nice swag packs to give away and they've been collecting students' information. -[46.00 --> 53.00] We'll invite them up and then we'll have Redeemer show a video and give a little spiel. -[53.00 --> 57.00] How many names do you guys have? -[57.00 --> 58.00] Two? -[58.00 --> 59.00] One. -[59.00 --> 61.00] Who do we want to do first? -[61.00 --> 64.00] Okay, we'll do Trinity Western first. -[64.00 --> 67.00] Hey guys. -[67.00 --> 68.00] Hello. -[68.00 --> 70.00] What's up? -[70.00 --> 74.00] Who wants a free sweater, a bucket hat, and socks? -[74.00 --> 75.00] Awesome. -[75.00 --> 77.00] Only one of you will get it, but that's cool. -[77.00 --> 79.00] Alright, I'm going to pick a name. -[79.00 --> 80.00] Could you hold the jar for me? -[80.00 --> 82.00] Could I have a drum roll please? -[82.00 --> 83.00] Thank you. -[83.00 --> 87.00] And the winner is... -[87.00 --> 92.00] Chase Vanderkoi. -[92.00 --> 93.00] Chase Vanderkoi? -[93.00 --> 94.00] Yeah, Chase. -[94.00 --> 96.00] Come on up here. -[96.00 --> 98.00] Get your stuff. -[98.00 --> 103.00] Yeah, good job Chase. -[103.00 --> 104.00] Chase. -[104.00 --> 105.00] Chase guys. -[105.00 --> 106.00] He's the winner. -[106.00 --> 107.00] Alright, okay. -[107.00 --> 109.00] I'm actually going to pick two names. -[109.00 --> 110.00] The bags are the same except one of them has Sour Patch Kids and one of them has Swedish -[110.00 --> 111.00] Berries. -[111.00 --> 112.00] So whoever comes first gets to choose. -[112.00 --> 113.00] Alright, drum roll please. -[113.00 --> 114.00] Oh no. -[114.00 --> 115.00] Actually, I'm going to pick two names. -[115.00 --> 116.00] I'm going to pick two names. -[116.00 --> 117.00] I'm going to pick two names. -[117.00 --> 121.00] The bags are the same except one of them has Sour Patch Kids and one of them has Swedish Berries. -[121.00 --> 122.00] So whoever comes first gets to choose. -[122.00 --> 123.00] Alright, drum roll please. -[123.00 --> 124.00] Oh no. -[124.00 --> 136.00] Actually, that was Chase Vanderkoi again so I'm not going to let you do another one. -[136.00 --> 137.00] Sorry. -[137.00 --> 138.00] Okay. -[138.00 --> 139.00] Let's go. -[139.00 --> 140.00] Atticus Fluitt. -[140.00 --> 141.00] Alright. -[141.00 --> 145.00] Sour Patch Kids or Swedish Berries. -[145.00 --> 147.00] Nice, good choice. -[147.00 --> 148.00] Alright. -[148.00 --> 149.00] Second one. -[149.00 --> 150.00] Last one at the time. -[150.00 --> 151.00] Drum roll. -[151.00 --> 158.00] Swedish Berries. Nice, good choice. All right, second one, last one at the time. Drum roll. -[158.00 --> 168.00] All right, let's hear it. London... Landon Stoddard. -[168.00 --> 179.00] Landon Stoddard? Yeah, all right. Congratulations. -[181.00 --> 193.00] Some call university the best time of your life. Maybe, but it's not easy. -[193.00 --> 206.00] There's lots to figure out. Career, faith, friends, future. There's opportunity, possibility, and a broken world that needs hope. -[206.00 --> 221.00] Redeemer's the place to get ready for that world. It's time to get off the sidelines and into the game to stretch your mind, test your limits, ask hard questions, and turn answers into action. -[221.00 --> 230.00] You're called into something big. Jesus Christ is king, and he's on the move redeeming his world. -[230.00 --> 248.00] It's time to stand up and take a big step into his big story. None of that is easy, and it shouldn't be. It's the best time, because it's a challenge that changes you forever. -[248.00 --> 263.00] Redeemer is where your faith and future come together. So you're ready. Ready for what? Anything. -[263.00 --> 268.00] Okay. -[268.00 --> 269.00] Okay. -[269.00 --> 279.00] Okay, so hi guys. Trinity Western got to do like a little presentation last night, so I get to go this morning. -[279.00 --> 284.00] My name's Lauren. I'm an admissions counselor for Redeemer. It's really fun to be here with you guys. -[284.00 --> 295.00] Yeah. So I'll just tell you a little bit about Redeemer. We're a Christian university. We're based out of the reform tradition, and we're located in Hamilton, Ontario, which is like about an hour away from Toronto. -[295.00 --> 304.00] We have about 1,100 students, so just over 1,000, and there's roughly 40 different programs that you can study if you want. So just name a few. -[304.00 --> 313.00] You might be interested in biochemistry or history or psychology, kinesiology, English writing, film production, and the list goes on. -[313.00 --> 319.00] I have a nice big list over at the booth if you're interested in learning more. There's also tons of hands-on learning opportunities. -[319.00 --> 328.00] So if you're taking classes, that might look like taking lots of labs if you're a science student and doing experiments or creating student films if you're a film student. -[328.00 --> 337.00] You can also go on co-ops and internships and like learn how to operate in the business world. Study abroad opportunities in a ton of different countries. -[337.00 --> 348.00] So there are a lot of ways that you can put what you're learning into practice. And another really cool thing about the way that Redeemer does academics is that faith is really infused into everything that we teach. -[348.00 --> 356.00] So you don't have to just take a religion or theology course to talk about God and your relationship to him. You talk about him in every single course. -[356.00 --> 367.00] Because Redeemer's mission is essentially to equip people and students to know how to serve God, glorify him, and reflect his love in every single career no matter what you're doing. -[367.00 --> 377.00] So we teach you how to be a Christian in biology or a Christian in psychology or a Christian in English writing and to know how to seek God in those places. -[377.00 --> 384.00] And that also comes out in the community at Redeemer, which is one of my personal favorite things about it. It's such an amazing community. -[384.00 --> 390.00] Everyone is just so welcoming and you really strive to make people feel at home. -[390.00 --> 395.00] And that comes out in the way that we do dorms where you live actually in a townhouse with a bunch of roommates. -[395.00 --> 402.00] And it feels kind of like a little family, which is really fun. And I love, love the community there. It's just like, it really feels like home. -[402.00 --> 411.00] And it really like, it's a full of people who strive to inspire you and spur you on in your faith and show you how to grow and how to seek God better. -[411.00 --> 423.00] So yeah, if you are interested in experiencing that, we have a lot of visit days. I know that it seems maybe a little bit far, but Redeemer actually will pay for at least part of your flight if you choose to come. -[423.00 --> 429.00] And we have specific long distance visit weekends for people who might be interested in coming, like maybe some of you. -[429.00 --> 437.00] So if you're interested in that, please come and talk to me. I've got a booth over there and I would love to just chat with you about anything, answer any questions you might have. -[437.00 --> 441.00] So yeah, thanks so much for having me. This has been really fun. -[446.00 --> 450.00] Oh, there it is. Well, good morning, everyone. -[450.00 --> 458.00] The youth are tired, the church is confused. It's all good. -[458.00 --> 464.00] It is so good to be gathered here in this place together for this church service. -[464.00 --> 473.00] And as you look around, you realize we've got about 177 ish youth and leaders from all over the province. -[473.00 --> 482.00] We've got another chunk of people who are part of this body, this church here, and we are coming together here to worship our Lord together. -[482.00 --> 485.00] It's a really cool thing. I was thinking about this the other day. -[485.00 --> 490.00] Youth, it's a real privilege for us to be able to come here to this conference. -[490.00 --> 500.00] And specifically today, it's a privilege for us to be able to come together and worship with not just our peers, our fellow youth and our youth leaders, but also a congregation. -[500.00 --> 504.00] People of different ages, across the board, and we gather together. -[504.00 --> 510.00] And in congregation at Emmanuel, it's also a privilege for us that we get to sit here today as the body of Christ. -[510.00 --> 514.00] And we are joined by 170 students from all over BC. -[514.00 --> 517.00] And so this is a beautiful picture of what the body of Christ is. -[517.00 --> 520.00] And we get to worship our Lord and Savior together today. -[520.00 --> 525.00] If you are sitting in a row, we have some people sort of filing in a little bit. -[525.00 --> 528.00] It'd be very good if some of the end seats were available. -[528.00 --> 536.00] So if you look and there's like a spot that you could squish into the middle a little bit, make it obvious for our ushers who could help seat some of those who are coming up. -[536.00 --> 538.00] That would be wonderful. -[538.00 --> 541.00] I didn't do this, but my name is Kevin Lobert. -[541.00 --> 545.00] I am the youth pastor here at Langley Emanuel CRC. -[545.00 --> 548.00] And I wanted to actually introduce you to a few other people. -[548.00 --> 550.00] I didn't tell them I was doing this, so sorry everybody. -[550.00 --> 557.00] But can the reactivate leadership team, the reactivate leadership team, nailed it. -[557.00 --> 558.00] Can you guys come forward? -[558.00 --> 560.00] Ben, Kaitlin, Curtis. -[560.00 --> 561.00] I saw Natasha. -[561.00 --> 562.00] She's holding a little one. -[562.00 --> 563.00] Is she around? -[563.00 --> 565.00] Is she here too? -[565.00 --> 566.00] Yeah, just a minute. -[566.00 --> 567.00] I'll come down with you. -[567.00 --> 570.00] And then if Natasha's here, Eric, you were here too. -[570.00 --> 571.00] Where's Eric? -[571.00 --> 572.00] You can come up as well. -[572.00 --> 573.00] Yeah, Eric, come up here. -[573.00 --> 575.00] So this is the reactivate leadership team. -[575.00 --> 577.00] If you see Natasha, she's holding a little baby. -[577.00 --> 580.00] She's kicking around somewhere. -[580.00 --> 584.00] But these are the people that for an entire year, in about two weeks, we're going to get -[584.00 --> 585.00] together. -[585.00 --> 588.00] We're going to talk about this one and we're going to start planning the next one. -[588.00 --> 590.00] And so this is the team that's doing that. -[590.00 --> 591.00] It might grow. -[591.00 --> 595.00] But we've got Ben here who's like administrative extraordinaire. -[595.00 --> 596.00] He's joined last year. -[596.00 --> 598.00] He's from Living Hope. -[598.00 --> 600.00] Yeah, we cheer for Ben. -[600.00 --> 602.00] We've got Curtis here. -[602.00 --> 605.00] He's like point man website. -[605.00 --> 608.00] He ran this thing by himself basically for a couple of years. -[608.00 --> 610.00] And so he's a bit of a guru. -[610.00 --> 612.00] He's a student out in Enderby. -[612.00 --> 613.00] We could cheer for Curtis. -[615.00 --> 617.00] We've got Caitlin here. -[617.00 --> 618.00] I'm moving over. -[618.00 --> 619.00] We've got Caitlin here. -[619.00 --> 620.00] She's from East Hills. -[620.00 --> 621.00] She's a youth pastor. -[621.00 --> 622.00] She runs that church. -[622.00 --> 623.00] That's not true. -[623.00 --> 624.00] She's doing a lot in that church. -[624.00 --> 626.00] She's very busy over there. -[626.00 --> 630.00] She does like all of the socials and she comes up with all of the good ideas when I have -[630.00 --> 631.00] bad ones. -[631.00 --> 632.00] And so we love Caitlin. -[632.00 --> 633.00] We could cheer for her. -[635.00 --> 636.00] And then we've got Eric here. -[636.00 --> 637.00] Eric's in charge. -[637.00 --> 642.00] He did like stuff with the prayer room and he led a bunch of the Livet stuff that got that -[642.00 --> 644.00] organized and the Learnits as well. -[644.00 --> 645.00] He helped operate a lot of those. -[645.00 --> 646.00] And so we love Eric. -[646.00 --> 647.00] We could cheer for him too. -[647.00 --> 651.00] And then you got me and I just kind of flap my mouth a bunch. -[651.00 --> 652.00] What's that? -[652.00 --> 653.00] Natasha, come here. -[653.00 --> 655.00] I invited you forward before, but you weren't listening. -[655.00 --> 656.00] No, you were busy. -[656.00 --> 657.00] This is Natasha. -[657.00 --> 659.00] We could cheer for Natasha right now. -[659.00 --> 664.00] And this is, this is, this is little Ezekiel. -[664.00 --> 667.00] Ezekiel's how many weeks old? -[667.00 --> 670.00] Ezekiel's three weeks old. -[670.00 --> 671.00] I know. -[671.00 --> 673.00] Natasha left us in a bit of a bind. -[673.00 --> 675.00] She didn't plan that well. -[675.00 --> 679.00] So she disappeared and things fell apart. -[679.00 --> 683.00] But we figured it out because she does a lot of work above kind of all of it. -[683.00 --> 686.00] And so let's cheer for Ezekiel a little bit. -[686.00 --> 687.00] Hooray. -[687.00 --> 688.00] We love Ezekiel. -[688.00 --> 689.00] Okay. -[689.00 --> 690.00] I'm going to get loud again. -[690.00 --> 691.00] So, okay. -[691.00 --> 692.00] So this is your leadership team. -[692.00 --> 693.00] There's also a few more. -[693.00 --> 694.00] You guys can sit. -[694.00 --> 701.00] We also have, and I don't know if they're going to be kicking around, but there's a lot of volunteers in this church. -[701.00 --> 703.00] There's way too many to thank. -[703.00 --> 707.00] So there's about 170 volunteer slots that need filled throughout this weekend. -[707.00 --> 711.00] And this church filled 166 of them or something like that. -[711.00 --> 722.00] And so Langley Emanuel, a huge thank you to you for hosting this conference and stepping up in that way. -[722.00 --> 726.00] There are, and I had to draw a line somewhere. -[726.00 --> 729.00] There's a bunch of people I could name, but there's a few people I want to thank. -[729.00 --> 730.00] Oh, good. -[730.00 --> 731.00] And one's walking right now. -[731.00 --> 734.00] There is Faye Shonit. -[734.00 --> 735.00] She's right here. -[735.00 --> 736.00] She's going to wave. -[736.00 --> 737.00] Faye's going to wave her hand. -[737.00 --> 738.00] Yeah. -[738.00 --> 739.00] Well, Faye's waving. -[739.00 --> 740.00] That's Faye. -[740.00 --> 742.00] She has been in charge of all of the food. -[742.00 --> 745.00] So everything you ate, Faye had her fingers in. -[745.00 --> 747.00] And so just remember that. -[747.00 --> 748.00] We love Faye. -[748.00 --> 749.00] Thank you so much, Faye, for helping us. -[749.00 --> 751.00] I think that deserves a really big cheer. -[751.00 --> 752.00] Thanks, Faye. -[752.00 --> 757.00] And then we also have Rachel DeWinter. -[757.00 --> 760.00] Rachel DeWinter has been in charge of all of our volunteers. -[760.00 --> 764.00] So someone needed to coordinate all of that and schedule all of that and email all of that. -[764.00 --> 765.00] And I suck at that. -[765.00 --> 766.00] And Rachel's really good at that. -[766.00 --> 767.00] And so Rachel did that. -[767.00 --> 771.00] And this whole operation behind the scenes kind of runs through her. -[771.00 --> 773.00] So thank you so much, Rachel. -[773.00 --> 779.00] Finally, I'm going to do a pair of people. -[779.00 --> 782.00] We have Matt and we've got Linda who are in the back. -[782.00 --> 783.00] They have come all weekend. -[783.00 --> 785.00] They set up Reactivate for the week ahead. -[785.00 --> 789.00] All of the general session stuff, the lights, the sound, the media. -[789.00 --> 790.00] That is all them. -[790.00 --> 792.00] So Matt and Linda, thank you so much. -[792.00 --> 795.00] Matt especially comes all the way from the island to do this. -[795.00 --> 806.00] And now we are going to start church. -[806.00 --> 807.00] I know that's weird. -[807.00 --> 808.00] We have been doing church. -[808.00 --> 811.00] But now we're going to kind of enter into the presence of God. -[811.00 --> 814.00] I'm going to invite Pastor Chris forward. -[814.00 --> 818.00] And he is going to come forward and he's going to lead us in God's greeting this morning. -[818.00 --> 822.00] And then Jean Vieve is going to come forward and lead us into a call to worship. -[822.00 --> 825.00] And we'll praise our God together. -[825.00 --> 827.00] Good morning. -[827.00 --> 829.00] How are you guys doing? -[829.00 --> 830.00] Decent. -[830.00 --> 833.00] I appreciate the honesty from this side. -[833.00 --> 834.00] That's great. -[834.00 --> 838.00] I want to welcome you all to Reactivate. -[838.00 --> 841.00] And I hope and pray you had an awesome weekend. -[841.00 --> 844.00] I had a chance to sit in on your session last night. -[844.00 --> 848.00] And I know that Pastor Dave has been leading you into the presence of Christ. -[848.00 --> 851.00] And I am so grateful for that. -[851.00 --> 854.00] And it's my prayer that that continues this morning. -[854.00 --> 857.00] This morning we enter into the presence of our God. -[857.00 --> 859.00] And he welcomes us and he greets us. -[859.00 --> 863.00] And so what I'm going to ask you to do as you're able and where you are is to stand. -[863.00 --> 866.00] We're going to receive the greeting of our God. -[866.00 --> 869.00] And what I like to say is take a posture of receipt. -[869.00 --> 873.00] And so maybe that's holding your hands out. -[873.00 --> 876.00] Maybe that's closing your eyes and reflecting on these words. -[876.00 --> 883.00] Maybe that's just imagining your heart opening up to hear the voice of Jesus in this moment. -[883.00 --> 888.00] And after I give you God's greeting, I'm going to invite you to turn to those around you and to greet them. -[888.00 --> 889.00] And to greet them. -[889.00 --> 892.00] Now some of you reactivate kids haven't washed your hands all weekend. -[892.00 --> 895.00] So maybe you don't want to actually shake hands. -[895.00 --> 897.00] But you can fist bump. -[897.00 --> 899.00] Everyone else, you can shake hands. -[899.00 --> 900.00] You can fist bump. -[900.00 --> 904.00] You can nod your head if you don't want to be interacting with other people in that way. -[904.00 --> 906.00] But welcome them in the name of the Lord. -[906.00 --> 909.00] One of the ways you can do that is by saying the Lord be with you. -[909.00 --> 913.00] Another way you can do that is by saying the peace of Christ be with you. -[913.00 --> 918.00] And so receive God's greeting and then turn to greet those around you. -[918.00 --> 927.00] Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God our Father, from the Lord Jesus Christ, his Son, and our Savior, -[927.00 --> 931.00] through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. -[931.00 --> 932.00] Amen. -[943.00 --> 945.00] Lets make this broken note -[945.06 --> 946.00] Not repeated. -[946.00 --> 947.00] I am exhausted. -[947.00 --> 948.00] Ow def junto. -[948.00 --> 950.00] And another amazing time of fitting those around you all to the Tutaje, -[950.00 --> 951.00] I am exhausted. -[951.00 --> 953.00] Make this gathered here tonight? -[953.00 --> 956.00] How me wie ready, this, 958.00] Just a while to the мои Josh hit. -[958.00 --> 959.00] multignant gremiejets. -[959.00 --> 961.00] What is joustense messenger son? -[961.00 --> 964.00] Funny, he's havingSHIP. -[964.00 --> 965.00] Manexca interviews, my Facebook page, -[965.00 --> 967.00] No masster i resolve that. -[967.00 --> 968.00] Let's reuse andPI or nosenie, -[968.00 --> 969.00] Jacket orbrey. -[969.00 --> 971.00] SpongeBob之 king did. -[971.00 --> 974.24] Good morning. -[977.52 --> 978.00] Great. -[978.08 --> 979.64] I'm going to call us into worship. -[980.04 --> 984.24] And this is one of those things where I say something and then you say something. -[984.64 --> 985.66] And hopefully it's on. -[985.86 --> 986.54] There we go. -[986.76 --> 987.10] All right. -[988.16 --> 990.30] Clap your hands, all you people. -[991.10 --> 991.34] Woo! -[991.50 --> 993.02] Yeah, we've been doing a lot of that today. -[994.36 --> 997.50] Shout to God with loud songs of joy. -[997.50 --> 998.66] Yeah! -[1001.00 --> 1004.02] Okay, this is the part where you read up there. -[1004.90 --> 1011.44] For the Lord most high is awesome, a great King over all the earth. -[1012.40 --> 1016.60] God has gone up with a shout, the Lord with the sound of a trumpet. -[1017.90 --> 1021.16] Sing praises to God, sing praises. -[1021.52 --> 1024.60] Sing praises to our King, sing praises. -[1024.60 --> 1024.84] Sing praises. -[1031.00 --> 1031.44] Good morning. -[1032.02 --> 1032.78] Good morning. -[1032.96 --> 1033.44] Good morning. -[1035.58 --> 1037.14] Wow, this room's a lot fuller. -[1038.72 --> 1040.08] There's a lot of... -[1040.08 --> 1042.22] Did the youth just grow up overnight or something? -[1043.38 --> 1044.80] Hey, it's good to see everyone. -[1047.50 --> 1049.04] This has been a wonderful time. -[1049.12 --> 1052.78] We've had an amazing time worshiping with you guys. -[1052.78 --> 1053.66] We've had a good... -[1053.66 --> 1059.20] And it's lovely to worship with the people that actually attend this church. -[1060.70 --> 1067.04] And we were loud. -[1067.04 --> 1074.24] And I think the kids were louder than we were, which is always really exciting. -[1074.44 --> 1083.18] However, I recognize that sometimes music is a chart, is a little bit of a difference. -[1083.18 --> 1088.74] And there's some cultural differences in different appreciations and such. -[1088.74 --> 1095.02] And as a thing for everyone that's guessing here today, I actually bought earplugs at the back. -[1095.28 --> 1101.26] If it is a little too loud for you, and there is no shame in getting them, I just wanted to let you know that it's available. -[1101.92 --> 1105.82] Because I recognize it's not a pleasant thing for this. -[1105.88 --> 1107.94] But the point is, it's not how it sounds. -[1107.98 --> 1109.86] It's not the point of how loud it is. -[1110.20 --> 1111.58] The point is, it's what we're doing. -[1112.28 --> 1115.10] And we're here to worship our Father. -[1115.10 --> 1125.18] And so, in the midst of those things, I just wanted to leave an opportunity if it's too distracting or too harsh. -[1126.20 --> 1127.64] I understand that. -[1128.18 --> 1131.60] And that's our little way of just preparing for you. -[1132.54 --> 1136.46] For what we've been experiencing as a youth group together this last weekend. -[1136.64 --> 1137.92] Anyway, I'm going to stop talking. -[1139.60 --> 1141.88] So, Father, meet with us today. -[1141.88 --> 1146.18] We recognize that you hold space. -[1148.28 --> 1150.66] We recognize that you hold time. -[1154.50 --> 1168.58] And we have the opportunity to engage with you and sing songs that we need to sing to express how much we delight in who you are. -[1168.58 --> 1173.14] So, be with us this morning. -[1174.10 --> 1178.68] Make your presence known in a beautiful way, in a fresh way. -[1178.68 --> 1202.34] Turn your ear to heaven and hear the noise inside. -[1202.34 --> 1212.34] The sound of angels, the sound of angels songs. -[1212.34 --> 1216.16] And all this for a king. -[1217.44 --> 1220.42] We could join and sing. -[1222.02 --> 1225.48] All through Christ the King. -[1225.48 --> 1229.36] How constant, how divine. -[1229.36 --> 1229.38] How constant, how divine. -[1230.38 --> 1234.40] This song of ours will rise. -[1234.40 --> 1237.94] How constant, how divine. -[1238.94 --> 1243.38] This song of ours will rise. -[1243.88 --> 1245.72] Will rise. -[1245.72 --> 1253.18] Oh, praise Him. -[1253.18 --> 1257.24] Oh, praise Him. -[1257.24 --> 1260.74] He is holy. -[1260.74 --> 1265.28] He is holy. -[1265.28 --> 1266.28] We could join and sing. -[1266.28 --> 1267.66] Turn your gaze to heaven. -[1267.66 --> 1271.72] Turn your gaze to heaven. -[1271.72 --> 1276.74] And raise a joyous noise. -[1276.74 --> 1282.78] The sound of angels songs. -[1282.78 --> 1287.12] The sound of rescued ones. -[1287.12 --> 1288.12] And all this for a king. -[1288.12 --> 1290.12] And all this for a king. -[1290.12 --> 1294.12] We could join and sing. -[1294.12 --> 1299.12] All through Christ the King. -[1299.12 --> 1303.12] Oh, praise Him. -[1303.12 --> 1307.12] Oh, praise Him. -[1307.12 --> 1310.12] He is holy. -[1310.12 --> 1312.12] He is holy. -[1312.12 --> 1317.12] He is holy. -[1317.12 --> 1318.12] Oh, praise Him. -[1318.12 --> 1320.12] Oh, praise Him. -[1320.12 --> 1325.12] Oh, praise Him. -[1325.12 --> 1328.12] He is holy. -[1328.12 --> 1333.12] He is holy. -[1333.12 --> 1363.10] Oh la la la la la la -[1363.12 --> 1393.10] Oh la la la la la la -[1393.14 --> 1400.32] Oh praise Him -[1400.32 --> 1404.66] Oh praise Him -[1404.66 --> 1407.92] He is holy -[1407.92 --> 1412.38] He is holy -[1412.38 --> 1417.52] Oh praise Him -[1417.52 --> 1429.44] Oh, praise Him. He is holy. He is holy. -[1429.44 --> 1459.42] Oh, la, la, la, la, la, la. -[1459.44 --> 1468.44] Oh, la, la, la, la, la, la, la. -[1475.08 --> 1488.54] In my wrestling and in my doubts, in my fears, you won't walk out. -[1488.54 --> 1495.04] Your great love will lead me through. -[1496.54 --> 1501.98] You are the peace in my troubled sea. -[1501.98 --> 1508.48] Oh, you are the peace in my trouble. -[1508.48 --> 1513.98] Bold sea. -[1513.98 --> 1516.48] My voice is going. -[1516.48 --> 1520.48] I'm going to need your help. -[1520.48 --> 1521.98] Would you mind joining us up here? -[1521.98 --> 1526.98] Yes, I am! -[1526.98 --> 1527.98] I am. -[1527.98 --> 1528.48] I am. -[1528.48 --> 1529.48] I am. -[1529.48 --> 1530.48] I am. -[1530.48 --> 1531.48] I am. -[1531.48 --> 1531.98] I am. -[1531.98 --> 1532.48] I am. -[1532.48 --> 1533.48] I am. -[1533.48 --> 1534.48] I am. -[1534.48 --> 1534.98] I am. -[1534.98 --> 1535.48] I am. -[1535.48 --> 1536.48] I am. -[1536.48 --> 1537.48] I am. -[1537.48 --> 1538.48] I am. -[1538.48 --> 1539.48] I am. -[1539.48 --> 1540.48] I am. -[1540.48 --> 1541.48] I am. -[1541.48 --> 1542.48] I am. -[1542.48 --> 1543.48] I am. -[1543.48 --> 1544.48] I am. -[1544.48 --> 1545.48] I am. -[1545.48 --> 1546.48] I am. -[1546.48 --> 1547.48] I am. -[1547.48 --> 1548.48] I am. -[1548.48 --> 1549.48] I am. -[1549.48 --> 1550.48] I am. -[1550.48 --> 1551.48] I am. -[1551.48 --> 1552.48] I am. -[1552.48 --> 1554.48] I am. -[1554.48 --> 1555.48] I am. -[1555.48 --> 1556.48] I am. -[1556.48 --> 1557.48] I am. -[1557.48 --> 1558.48] I am. -[1558.48 --> 1559.48] Am I. -[1559.48 --> 1560.48] I am. -[1560.48 --> 1561.48] I am. -[1561.48 --> 1563.46] I am. -[1563.46 --> 1573.48] It is the earth, you are God. -[1573.48 --> 1577.58] Your great love will lead me through -[1577.58 --> 1581.68] You are the peace in my troubled sea -[1581.68 --> 1586.48] Oh, you are the peace in my troubled sea -[1586.48 --> 1593.60] My lighthouse, my lighthouse -[1593.60 --> 1597.94] Shining in the darkness, I will follow you -[1597.94 --> 1601.98] My lighthouse, my lighthouse -[1601.98 --> 1605.98] I will trust the promise you will carry me -[1605.98 --> 1611.98] Safety sure, safety sure -[1611.98 --> 1619.98] Safety sure, safety sure -[1619.98 --> 1623.98] Safety sure -[1623.98 --> 1627.98] I won't fear what tomorrow brings -[1627.98 --> 1631.98] With each morning I'll rise and sing -[1631.98 --> 1637.98] My God's love will lead me through -[1637.98 --> 1641.98] You are the peace in my troubled sea -[1641.98 --> 1645.98] You are the peace in my troubled sea -[1645.98 --> 1651.98] My lighthouse, my lighthouse -[1651.98 --> 1655.98] My lighthouse, shining in the darkness -[1655.98 --> 1657.98] I will follow you -[1657.98 --> 1661.98] My lighthouse, my lighthouse -[1661.98 --> 1665.98] I will trust the promise you will carry me -[1665.98 --> 1669.98] Safety sure -[1669.98 --> 1673.98] Safety sure -[1673.98 --> 1677.98] Safety sure -[1677.98 --> 1679.98] Safety sure -[1679.98 --> 1681.98] Safety sure -[1681.98 --> 1685.98] Fire before us -[1685.98 --> 1687.98] You're the brightest -[1687.98 --> 1691.98] You will lead us through the storm -[1691.98 --> 1693.98] Fire before us -[1693.98 --> 1695.98] Fire before us -[1695.98 --> 1697.98] You're the brightest -[1697.98 --> 1701.98] You will lead us through the storm -[1701.98 --> 1703.98] Fire before us -[1703.98 --> 1705.98] You're the brightest -[1705.98 --> 1709.98] You will lead us through the storm -[1709.98 --> 1711.98] Fire before us -[1711.98 --> 1713.98] Fire before us -[1713.98 --> 1715.98] You're the brightest -[1715.98 --> 1721.98] You will lead us through the storm -[1721.98 --> 1722.98] Fire before us -[1722.98 --> 1723.98] Fire before us -[1723.98 --> 1725.98] My lighthouse, my lighthouse -[1725.98 --> 1726.98] Fire before us -[1726.98 --> 1728.98] My lighthouse, shining in the darkness -[1728.98 --> 1729.98] I will follow you -[1729.98 --> 1730.98] My lighthouse, my lighthouse -[1730.98 --> 1732.98] My lighthouse, my lighthouse -[1732.98 --> 1735.98] I will trust the promise you will carry me -[1735.98 --> 1742.98] I will trust the promise, you will carry me safe to shore. -[1742.98 --> 1747.98] Safe to shore. -[1747.98 --> 1751.98] Safe to shore. -[1751.98 --> 1757.98] Safe to shore. -[1757.98 --> 1767.98] Safe to shore. -[1787.98 --> 1803.98] To peace and flame. -[1805.64 --> 1807.98] If you Ciao. -[1807.98 --> 1823.32] All the poor and powerless -[1823.32 --> 1831.06] And all the lost and lonely -[1831.06 --> 1839.24] All of these will come confessed -[1839.24 --> 1846.40] We'll know that you are holy -[1846.40 --> 1853.98] We'll know that you are holy -[1853.98 --> 1862.98] And all will sing our hallelujah -[1862.98 --> 1869.98] We will cry our hallelujah -[1869.98 --> 1876.98] We will sing our hallelujah -[1876.98 --> 1883.98] We will cry our hallelujah -[1883.98 --> 1893.98] All the world is dark and seen -[1893.98 --> 1899.98] And all that feel unworthy -[1899.98 --> 1906.98] And all the world with nothing left -[1906.98 --> 1912.98] We'll know that you are holy -[1912.98 --> 1918.98] We'll know that you are holy -[1918.98 --> 1926.98] And all will sing our hallelujah -[1926.98 --> 1933.98] We will cry our hallelujah -[1933.98 --> 1939.98] We will sing our hallelujah -[1939.98 --> 1947.98] We will cry our hallelujah -[1947.98 --> 1960.98] We will sing our hallelujah -[1960.98 --> 1969.98] Shall we go on and scream it from the mountains -[1969.98 --> 1980.98] Go on and tell it to the masses -[1980.98 --> 1984.98] That he is God -[1984.98 --> 1992.98] Shout it -[1992.98 --> 1998.98] Go on and scream it from the mountains -[1998.98 --> 1999.98] Go on and scream it from the mountains -[1999.98 --> 2003.98] Go on and tell it to the masses -[2003.98 --> 2008.98] Go on and tell it to the masses -[2008.98 --> 2011.98] He is God -[2011.98 --> 2013.98] He is God -[2013.98 --> 2014.98] And he is God -[2014.98 --> 2015.98] He is God -[2015.98 --> 2019.98] Shout it -[2019.98 --> 2022.98] Go on and scream it from the mountains -[2022.98 --> 2026.98] From the mountains -[2026.98 --> 2033.98] Go on and tell it to the masses -[2033.98 --> 2043.98] That he is going -[2043.98 --> 2047.98] Shout it -[2047.98 --> 2054.98] Go on and scream it from the mountains -[2054.98 --> 2061.98] Go on and tell it to the masses -[2061.98 --> 2070.98] That he is gone -[2070.98 --> 2074.98] Shout it -[2074.98 --> 2081.98] Go on and scream it from the mountains -[2081.98 --> 2087.98] Go on and scream it to the masses -[2087.98 --> 2096.98] He is gone -[2096.98 --> 2105.98] And all will sing out hallelujah -[2105.98 --> 2113.98] And we will cry out hallelujah -[2113.98 --> 2128.98] We will cry out hallelujah -[2128.98 --> 2131.98] Shout out -[2131.98 --> 2132.98] Shout out -[2132.98 --> 2141.98] Go on and scream it from the mountains -[2141.98 --> 2147.98] Go on and tell it to the masses -[2147.98 --> 2150.98] Go on and tell it to the masses -[2150.98 --> 2164.98] Go on and scream it from the mountains -[2164.98 --> 2168.98] Go on and tell it to the masses -[2168.98 --> 2175.98] Go on and tell it to the masses -[2175.98 --> 2181.98] He is gone -[2181.98 --> 2198.98] Let's pray -[2198.98 --> 2201.98] Almighty God -[2201.98 --> 2205.98] Too often we have sought to be in charge of our own lives -[2205.98 --> 2208.98] To walk our own paths -[2208.98 --> 2213.98] To extend our rule over all your creation -[2213.98 --> 2215.98] In selfish ambition -[2215.98 --> 2220.98] Whether out of our own desire for independence -[2220.98 --> 2227.98] Or fear of what you might ask us to do -[2227.98 --> 2233.98] We have not allowed you to be the ruler of our world -[2233.98 --> 2237.98] Forgive us for the sin of thinking we know better than you -[2237.98 --> 2241.98] And acting on that false belief -[2241.98 --> 2246.98] We confess our need to submit our will to yours -[2246.98 --> 2251.98] So that we might truly be able to pray that prayer -[2251.98 --> 2256.98] Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven -[2256.98 --> 2263.98] Now hear this assurance people of God -[2263.98 --> 2270.98] Our world fallen into sin has lost its first goodness -[2270.98 --> 2276.98] But God has not abandoned the work of his hands -[2276.98 --> 2279.98] Our maker preserves this world -[2279.98 --> 2282.98] Sending seasons, sun and rain -[2282.98 --> 2287.98] Upholding all creatures, renewing the earth -[2287.98 --> 2293.98] Promising a savior, guiding all things to their purpose -[2293.98 --> 2299.98] God holds this world in fierce love -[2299.98 --> 2305.98] Keeping his promise, he sends Jesus into the world -[2305.98 --> 2308.98] Pours out the Holy Spirit -[2308.98 --> 2311.98] And announces the good news -[2311.98 --> 2315.98] That sinners who repent and believe in Jesus -[2315.98 --> 2320.98] Live anew as members of the family of God -[2320.98 --> 2324.98] The first fruits of a new creation -[2324.98 --> 2325.98] To creation -[2325.98 --> 2346.98] Let's sing that one more time -[2346.98 --> 2348.98] Let's sing that one more time -[2348.98 --> 2356.98] And all we'll sing out hallelujah -[2356.98 --> 2362.98] And we will cry out hallelujah -[2362.98 --> 2379.98] And we will cry out hallelujah -[2379.98 --> 2381.98] People's grace -[2381.98 --> 2382.98] Thank you because you Vaughan -[2382.98 --> 2385.98] God took us who Watts -[2385.98 --> 2415.96] Thank you. -[2415.98 --> 2427.10] Hope is built on God's name, blessed in Jesus' blood and righteousness. -[2429.56 --> 2442.20] I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but only trust in Jesus' name. -[2445.98 --> 2459.36] My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness. -[2459.36 --> 2474.60] I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but only trust in Jesus' name. -[2474.60 --> 2487.60] Christ above, cornerstone, weak made strong. -[2487.60 --> 2502.60] He is Lord, Lord of all. -[2502.60 --> 2529.10] When darkness seems to hide His face, -[2529.10 --> 2536.10] I rest on His with a changing grace. -[2538.10 --> 2543.10] And every high and storm began, -[2543.10 --> 2550.10] my anger holds within the veil. -[2550.10 --> 2558.10] My anger holds within the veil. -[2558.10 --> 2571.10] Christ alone, cornerstone, weak made strong. -[2571.10 --> 2578.10] The Savior's love through the storm. -[2578.10 --> 2586.10] He is Lord, Lord of all. -[2586.10 --> 2593.10] He is Lord, Lord of all. -[2593.10 --> 2601.10] He is Lord, Lord of all. -[2601.10 --> 2618.14] ** -[2618.14 --> 2630.08] Through the storm, He is Lord, Lord. -[2630.08 --> 2651.08] When He shall come with trumpet sound, O may I then in Him be found, -[2651.08 --> 2664.98] Just in His righteousness alone, Paul is to stand before the throne. -[2664.98 --> 2682.98] For Christ alone, cornerstone, we make strong in Savior's love. -[2682.98 --> 2695.98] Through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[2695.98 --> 2713.98] Christ alone, cornerstone, we make strong in Savior's love. -[2713.98 --> 2724.98] Through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[2724.98 --> 2731.98] Through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[2731.98 --> 2734.98] You are Lord, Lord of all. -[2734.98 --> 2739.98] Through the storm, He is Lord, Lord of all. -[2739.98 --> 2769.38] Shall we do one more? -[2769.98 --> 2770.98] Yeah. -[2770.98 --> 2771.98] Absolutely. -[2771.98 --> 2784.98] Alone in my sorrow and dead to my sin. -[2784.98 --> 2797.98] Lost in my hope, no place to begin. -[2797.98 --> 2804.98] Your love made a way to let mercy come in. -[2804.98 --> 2812.98] When death was arrested, my life began. -[2812.98 --> 2819.98] Ash was redeemed, only beauty remains. -[2819.98 --> 2834.98] My orphan heart was given to me. -[2834.98 --> 2841.98] My morning grew quiet, my feet rose to dance. -[2841.98 --> 2849.98] When death was arrested, my life began. -[2849.98 --> 2860.98] Oh, your grace so free washes over me. -[2860.98 --> 2864.98] You have made me new. -[2864.98 --> 2872.98] Now life begins with you. -[2872.98 --> 2879.98] Released from my chains, I'm a prisoner no more. -[2879.98 --> 2887.98] My shame was a ransom, he feared no more. -[2887.98 --> 2899.98] He canceled my debts and he called me his friend. -[2899.98 --> 2906.98] When death was arrested, my life began. -[2906.98 --> 2907.98] When death was arrested, my life began. -[2907.98 --> 2908.98] You have made me new. -[2908.98 --> 2913.98] Now life begins with you. -[2913.98 --> 2914.98] You have made me new. -[2914.98 --> 2920.98] Now life begins with you. -[2920.98 --> 2939.98] It's your endless love pouring down on us. -[2939.98 --> 2940.98] You have made me new. -[2940.98 --> 2941.98] You have made me new. -[2941.98 --> 2946.98] Now life begins with you. -[2946.98 --> 2954.98] You have made me new. -[2954.98 --> 2961.98] A Savior displayed on a criminal's cross. -[2961.98 --> 2969.98] Darkness rejoiced as the heavenly light. -[2969.98 --> 2975.98] Then Jesus arose. -[2975.98 --> 2979.98] With a great happy man -[2979.98 --> 2986.98] There was a rest in my life -[2986.98 --> 2995.98] Oh, your grace so free -[2995.98 --> 3000.98] Washes over me -[3000.98 --> 3004.98] You have made new -[3004.98 --> 3010.98] Now life begins with you -[3010.98 --> 3016.98] Your endless love -[3016.98 --> 3022.98] Pouring down on us -[3022.98 --> 3026.98] You have made us a dream -[3026.98 --> 3032.98] Now life begins with you -[3032.98 --> 3038.98] We're free, free, forever we're free -[3038.98 --> 3042.98] Come join the song of all the redeem -[3042.98 --> 3048.98] Yeah, we're free, free, forever amen -[3048.98 --> 3054.98] And there was a rest in my life -[3054.98 --> 3058.98] We're free, free, forever amen -[3058.98 --> 3063.98] All the songs of all the redeem -[3063.98 --> 3069.98] Yeah, we're free, free, forever amen -[3069.98 --> 3073.98] And there was a rest in my life -[3073.98 --> 3090.98] When death was a rest in my life -[3090.98 --> 3095.98] When death was a rest in my life -[3095.98 --> 3100.98] When death was a rest in my life -[3100.98 --> 3104.98] When death was a rest in my life -[3104.98 --> 3109.98] Yeah -[3109.98 --> 3114.98] Cause all your grace so free -[3114.98 --> 3119.98] Washes over me -[3119.98 --> 3124.98] You have made me build now life -[3124.98 --> 3127.98] And it begins with you -[3127.98 --> 3130.98] You have made me build you -[3130.98 --> 3131.98] One voices of other people -[3131.98 --> 3133.98] This Lord -[3133.98 --> 3135.98] Desmi -[3135.98 --> 3136.98] breakup -[3136.98 --> 3137.98] enser -[3137.98 --> 3138.98] ch -[3138.98 --> 3140.98] Jekyll -[3140.98 --> 3144.98] You have made us a dream -[3144.98 --> 3146.98] Now life begins with you -[3147.98 --> 3149.98] Let's do -[3149.98 --> 3154.98] You have made us a dream -[3154.98 --> 3170.98] Well, you may find your seats, or no. -[3170.98 --> 3172.38] Am I not supposed to come up yet? -[3174.20 --> 3176.06] We're just going to take a moment. -[3177.12 --> 3178.60] We're just going to take a moment now. -[3179.20 --> 3181.42] Give of our gifts, our financial gifts this morning. -[3181.42 --> 3186.56] So I'm here to highlight who we're going to give our special offering to today, -[3186.92 --> 3188.18] and that is World Renew. -[3188.72 --> 3192.60] So World Renew is a relief and development agency -[3192.60 --> 3194.78] who does a lot of disaster relief, -[3194.90 --> 3197.04] and they work with communities helping them bring them -[3197.04 --> 3199.30] into a place of sustainability out of poverty. -[3199.68 --> 3202.28] And we actually had a lot of time with them this weekend. -[3202.52 --> 3205.76] So we had Chris and Chitty here, and they had a booth at the back, -[3205.80 --> 3208.14] and they interacted with a lot of us here at Reactivate. -[3208.14 --> 3211.78] They even led a couple of sessions on what does it look like -[3211.78 --> 3214.52] to interact with poverty and good ways to help -[3214.52 --> 3215.90] and ways to think that through. -[3216.02 --> 3219.18] So we're very thankful for the work that World Renew does -[3219.18 --> 3223.22] and even what they were able to give back to us at Reactivate. -[3223.38 --> 3225.70] So if we can all take a moment to give generously -[3225.70 --> 3228.40] of our monetary gifts this morning, we can bless World Renew. -[3228.54 --> 3229.28] Thank you very much. -[3229.28 --> 3229.36] Thank you. -[3238.14 --> 3254.06] All right. -[3254.20 --> 3256.78] While the bags are being passed around -[3256.78 --> 3258.26] and we're giving of our gifts, -[3258.72 --> 3262.00] I'm wondering if there's any kids out there -[3262.00 --> 3265.98] who are like aged three to maybe kindergarten, -[3265.98 --> 3268.54] and I wonder if you can be brave enough -[3268.54 --> 3270.52] and come up here and join me up front. -[3270.68 --> 3272.56] I know church is a little fuller than normal, -[3272.78 --> 3275.86] but I would love for you to come forward right now if you can -[3275.86 --> 3277.54] and join me up front here. -[3278.02 --> 3281.08] So if you're three to kindergarten, come on forward. -[3282.38 --> 3283.82] I'd love to see your faces. -[3285.76 --> 3286.40] Here we go. -[3286.46 --> 3287.08] Here comes some. -[3291.66 --> 3293.78] You can come and you can sit right up here. -[3293.78 --> 3293.84] Here we go. -[3295.98 --> 3300.70] Good morning. -[3300.98 --> 3302.56] You guys are the brave ones, I think. -[3302.88 --> 3303.76] How are we doing today? -[3304.74 --> 3305.62] Are we doing good? -[3306.40 --> 3307.88] Is church a little bit different today? -[3308.66 --> 3309.48] Is that okay? -[3310.32 --> 3310.72] Yeah? -[3311.56 --> 3314.02] Was music a little louder than normal -[3314.02 --> 3317.02] and the light's a little shinier than normal? -[3318.14 --> 3320.80] It's fun to worship God in all sorts of ways, right? -[3320.84 --> 3322.62] We can praise him in all sorts of ways. -[3322.62 --> 3323.80] And you know what we're going to do right now? -[3323.80 --> 3326.96] We're going to pray and then you kids can head into the back -[3326.96 --> 3329.66] and we're still going to do children's worship time for you today, okay? -[3330.00 --> 3330.58] Does that work? -[3331.14 --> 3331.96] But I'm going to pray -[3331.96 --> 3334.64] and the bags are still going to get passed while I pray -[3334.64 --> 3335.80] and that's okay, everyone. -[3336.80 --> 3338.66] As the bags are still getting passed, we're going to pray -[3338.66 --> 3339.64] and then we're going to stand up -[3339.64 --> 3341.48] and we're going to do the Lord's blessing, okay? -[3341.92 --> 3342.48] Does that work? -[3342.48 --> 3343.86] All right, let's bow our heads. -[3344.00 --> 3345.58] Let's close our eyes and we're going to do a little prayer. -[3346.04 --> 3347.60] God, thank you so much for this day. -[3348.12 --> 3350.76] Thank you that we could have so many friends from all over BC -[3350.76 --> 3352.36] join us for church this morning, -[3352.52 --> 3354.82] that we could sing praises to your name -[3354.82 --> 3357.20] and learn more about what it means to follow and love you. -[3357.38 --> 3359.70] And we pray, Lord, that as we go to children's worship time -[3359.70 --> 3361.28] and as the youth and the grown-ups, -[3361.38 --> 3363.32] they stay back here and listen to Pastor Dave, -[3363.66 --> 3367.40] that we will all learn more about you and how you love us. -[3367.96 --> 3370.56] And we pray this in your son's precious and holy name. -[3371.36 --> 3371.72] Amen. -[3372.70 --> 3373.76] All right, we're going to stand -[3373.76 --> 3376.08] and we're going to have to be extra loud today. -[3376.18 --> 3378.04] I'm going to, in fact, actually, youth, you don't know this. -[3378.08 --> 3379.38] You're all going to stand right now. -[3379.78 --> 3382.78] The kids are going to say, the Lord be with you -[3382.78 --> 3385.70] and then you're all going to reply with and also with you -[3385.70 --> 3387.76] and you're going to hold your hands out to receive it, okay? -[3388.32 --> 3389.52] All right, kids, are we ready? -[3389.60 --> 3390.36] There's only a few of us. -[3390.40 --> 3391.22] We have to be really loud. -[3391.32 --> 3391.90] We'll say it together. -[3391.98 --> 3392.24] You ready? -[3392.80 --> 3393.72] One, two, three. -[3394.72 --> 3396.38] The Lord be with you. -[3396.38 --> 3398.56] And also with you. -[3398.86 --> 3400.64] All right, we can head to children's worship time. -[3412.94 --> 3414.40] Good morning. -[3414.74 --> 3418.06] My name is Seth and I'm an elder here at Langley Emanuel -[3418.06 --> 3421.40] and it's my privilege to lead us in our church family prayer. -[3422.24 --> 3425.28] Kevin alluded a number of times to how church is different this morning -[3425.28 --> 3426.82] and it's a wonderful thing. -[3427.06 --> 3427.94] We're thankful for that. -[3428.54 --> 3432.42] The feeling, the music, the sound, the smell. -[3434.42 --> 3435.30] That's debatable. -[3435.64 --> 3438.60] But our worship is a pleasing aroma to God, -[3438.68 --> 3440.28] regardless of our earthly sense. -[3441.44 --> 3442.58] Please join me in prayer. -[3442.58 --> 3449.90] Father in heaven, we come before you today with hearts full of gratitude and reverence. -[3450.56 --> 3454.70] We thank you for this day, a new opportunity to gather in your presence -[3454.70 --> 3456.52] and to lift up your name in worship. -[3457.62 --> 3460.94] Lord, we are especially grateful for the Reactivate Youth event this weekend. -[3461.66 --> 3465.96] We thank you for providing so many dedicated volunteers to accomplish numerous tasks. -[3465.96 --> 3471.36] We thank you for the energy, enthusiasm, and commitment of our youth and their leaders. -[3472.34 --> 3474.84] We praise you for the ways you have moved in their lives, -[3475.18 --> 3477.60] sparking new passions and deepening their faith. -[3478.58 --> 3482.18] We ask that you continue to work powerfully in the hearts of our youth. -[3482.98 --> 3486.98] May the seeds planted during this event grow and bear fruit in their lives. -[3487.96 --> 3490.04] Inspire them to pursue you with zeal -[3490.04 --> 3493.22] and to live out their faith with courage and conviction. -[3494.52 --> 3498.68] May they continue to set an example for us in speech, in conduct, -[3499.04 --> 3501.22] in love, in faith, and in purity. -[3502.60 --> 3505.90] Empower their leaders with wisdom, patience, and love -[3505.90 --> 3508.04] as they guide and mentor these young people. -[3509.60 --> 3513.34] We pray for our leaders, both within the church and beyond. -[3514.20 --> 3516.16] Grant them discernment and strength -[3516.16 --> 3519.06] as they navigate the challenges and opportunities before them. -[3520.04 --> 3522.78] Give them the courage to stand firm in your truth -[3522.78 --> 3524.66] while leading with grace and humility. -[3526.18 --> 3528.78] We also pray for our community and the world. -[3530.04 --> 3532.06] May your justice roll down like waters -[3532.06 --> 3534.58] and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream. -[3535.58 --> 3538.58] We ask for your peace to reign in places of conflict -[3538.58 --> 3541.96] and for your grace to abound in places of despair. -[3543.30 --> 3545.46] Use us as instruments of your peace -[3545.46 --> 3547.26] and ambassadors of your kingdom. -[3547.26 --> 3551.12] Help us to be a community that reflects your love, -[3551.42 --> 3552.94] compassion, and justice. -[3553.64 --> 3555.52] May we be a light to those around us, -[3555.98 --> 3558.44] demonstrating the hope and grace that we have found in you. -[3560.38 --> 3562.44] Lord, we lift up our congregation to you, -[3562.96 --> 3564.72] asking for your healing touch upon those -[3564.72 --> 3567.46] who are suffering in body, mind, or spirit. -[3567.46 --> 3571.44] We are thankful for news of Peter's successful surgery -[3571.44 --> 3573.34] and ask for continued healing. -[3574.04 --> 3576.38] We also pray for Emo's upcoming surgery. -[3577.14 --> 3580.34] Please give Emo your peace and strength and bring healing. -[3581.30 --> 3584.00] Be near to Ashley as well with her recent diagnosis. -[3585.92 --> 3587.02] Comfort those who are grieving. -[3587.92 --> 3589.32] Provide for those who are in need -[3589.32 --> 3591.22] and bring peace to those who are troubled. -[3591.22 --> 3594.94] May those who are unable to join us today, -[3595.24 --> 3597.30] whether because they're shut in or for other reasons, -[3597.80 --> 3600.84] may they feel your presence in profound and tangible ways. -[3601.82 --> 3603.78] We also ask that as the school year -[3603.78 --> 3605.62] and the church ministry year gets underway, -[3605.94 --> 3607.62] that all will experience your goodness. -[3609.44 --> 3611.18] As we gather as a church family, -[3611.56 --> 3613.58] we also seek your guidance and wisdom. -[3614.76 --> 3616.46] Illuminate our hearts and minds -[3616.46 --> 3618.84] as we seek to understand your word more deeply -[3618.84 --> 3621.12] and to apply it faithfully in our lives. -[3622.20 --> 3624.34] Open our hearts to the truth of your word. -[3625.78 --> 3627.88] Transform us by the renewing of our minds -[3627.88 --> 3630.60] so that we might live lives that are pleasing to you. -[3631.66 --> 3634.70] Help us to grow in faith, hope, and love, -[3635.02 --> 3637.12] and to build each other up in our journey with you. -[3638.94 --> 3641.38] Father, we are grateful for your constant presence -[3641.38 --> 3643.00] and your unending grace. -[3643.74 --> 3646.70] We commit this time of worship and fellowship into your hands, -[3646.70 --> 3649.40] trusting that you will be honored in all that we do. -[3650.20 --> 3653.22] We pray all these things in the name of your son, Jesus Christ. -[3654.02 --> 3654.28] Amen. -[3662.74 --> 3663.96] Well, good morning, everyone. -[3664.90 --> 3666.12] Oh, you sound tired. -[3666.12 --> 3669.10] For those who are part of Emmanuel, -[3669.18 --> 3670.08] my name is Dave Gruen. -[3670.20 --> 3671.82] I'm one of the pastors at Hope Community Church -[3671.82 --> 3672.64] just down the road. -[3672.76 --> 3674.24] And I want to say to Emmanuel, -[3674.40 --> 3675.78] thank you for your hospitality. -[3676.72 --> 3679.44] I have gotten to know what I feel like half of your church now -[3679.44 --> 3680.90] because of all the different ways -[3680.90 --> 3682.72] that you have served and cared for us. -[3682.96 --> 3684.22] And so I just want to speak on behalf -[3684.22 --> 3685.78] of all the churches represented here -[3685.78 --> 3688.14] by saying thank you for your generous hospitality. -[3688.60 --> 3690.72] And we're going to give Emmanuel a round of applause. -[3690.72 --> 3690.98] Thank you. -[3690.98 --> 3691.08] Thank you. -[3691.08 --> 3691.22] Thank you. -[3691.22 --> 3691.28] Thank you. -[3691.28 --> 3691.38] Thank you. -[3691.38 --> 3691.44] Thank you. -[3691.44 --> 3691.48] Thank you. -[3691.48 --> 3691.54] Thank you. -[3691.54 --> 3691.58] Thank you. -[3691.58 --> 3691.62] Thank you. -[3691.62 --> 3691.68] Thank you. -[3691.68 --> 3691.74] Thank you. -[3691.74 --> 3692.18] Thank you. -[3692.18 --> 3692.68] Thank you. -[3692.68 --> 3693.18] Thank you. -[3693.18 --> 3693.24] Thank you. -[3693.24 --> 3693.78] Thank you. -[3693.78 --> 3696.78] Thank you. -[3696.78 --> 3697.22] Thank you. -[3697.22 --> 3698.26] Throughout the course of this weekend, -[3698.26 --> 3700.36] the theme of reactivate has been revealed -[3700.36 --> 3701.96] and we've been exploring how it is -[3701.96 --> 3703.68] that Jesus is revealed to us. -[3703.78 --> 3704.26] On Friday, -[3704.50 --> 3706.06] I'm sure all the students remember this perfectly. -[3706.62 --> 3708.62] We looked at how Jesus was revealed to us -[3708.62 --> 3711.18] as our great prophet who speaks God's word. -[3711.76 --> 3712.10] Yesterday, -[3712.32 --> 3714.12] we looked at how Jesus is revealed to us -[3714.12 --> 3715.32] as our great high priest -[3715.32 --> 3717.00] whose perfect sacrifice -[3717.00 --> 3719.38] opens up the presence of God to us. -[3719.80 --> 3720.48] And this morning, -[3720.54 --> 3721.28] we're going to be looking at -[3721.28 --> 3723.78] how Jesus is our great King. -[3724.54 --> 3725.44] And if you have a Bible, -[3725.58 --> 3727.34] you can turn with me to Acts chapter one. -[3727.66 --> 3728.76] It's also going to be on the screen -[3728.76 --> 3730.44] if you just want to follow along with me. -[3731.28 --> 3733.38] It's the first 11 verses of Acts chapter one. -[3735.96 --> 3738.06] In my former book, Theophilus, -[3738.14 --> 3740.80] I wrote about all that Jesus began to do -[3740.80 --> 3743.26] and to teach until the day he was taken up to heaven. -[3743.62 --> 3745.82] After giving instructions to the Holy Spirit, -[3745.82 --> 3747.18] to the apostles he had chosen. -[3748.02 --> 3748.90] After his suffering, -[3748.90 --> 3750.24] he presented himself to them -[3750.24 --> 3751.98] and gave many convincing proofs -[3751.98 --> 3753.60] that he was alive. -[3754.14 --> 3755.02] He appeared to them -[3755.02 --> 3756.42] over the period of 40 days -[3756.42 --> 3758.06] and spoke about the kingdom of God. -[3758.82 --> 3759.40] On one occasion, -[3759.52 --> 3760.34] while he was with them, -[3760.38 --> 3761.30] he gave this command, -[3762.14 --> 3763.16] do not leave Jerusalem, -[3763.76 --> 3765.94] but wait for the gift my father promised, -[3766.08 --> 3767.72] which you have heard me speak about. -[3768.20 --> 3769.82] For John baptized with water, -[3769.94 --> 3770.94] but in a few days, -[3771.34 --> 3773.48] you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit. -[3774.58 --> 3775.62] So when they met together, -[3775.62 --> 3776.74] they asked him, -[3776.78 --> 3778.00] Lord, are you at this time -[3778.00 --> 3780.08] going to restore the kingdom to Israel? -[3780.96 --> 3781.58] He said to them, -[3781.58 --> 3783.04] it's not for you to know the times -[3783.04 --> 3784.38] and the dates the father has set -[3784.38 --> 3785.66] by his own authority, -[3786.50 --> 3788.10] but you will receive power -[3788.10 --> 3789.84] when the Holy Spirit comes on you -[3789.84 --> 3792.56] and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem -[3792.56 --> 3794.62] and all Judea and Samaria -[3794.62 --> 3796.52] and to the ends of the earth. -[3797.34 --> 3798.16] After he said this, -[3798.20 --> 3799.98] he was taken up before their very eyes -[3799.98 --> 3801.94] and a cloud hid him from their sight. -[3801.94 --> 3804.70] They were looking intently up into the sky -[3804.70 --> 3805.46] as he was going -[3805.46 --> 3807.38] when suddenly two men dressed in white -[3807.38 --> 3808.78] stood beside them. -[3809.56 --> 3810.92] Men of Galilee, they said, -[3811.04 --> 3813.42] why do you stand here looking into the sky? -[3813.82 --> 3816.64] The same Jesus who has been taken from you into heaven -[3816.64 --> 3819.12] will come back in the same way -[3819.12 --> 3821.14] you have seen him go into heaven. -[3821.56 --> 3822.48] This is God's word. -[3825.28 --> 3827.00] Well, I mentioned on Friday night -[3827.00 --> 3828.64] that a number of years ago, -[3828.82 --> 3829.88] for a few years, -[3829.88 --> 3832.62] I led a Bible study for international students. -[3833.04 --> 3834.96] My church, where's New West CRC? -[3835.54 --> 3836.58] My church, New West. -[3836.64 --> 3837.08] There we are. -[3837.14 --> 3837.96] My former church. -[3838.34 --> 3839.56] We had a number of students -[3839.56 --> 3841.24] who are part of Simon Fraser University -[3841.24 --> 3843.58] and they were just sort of learning English, -[3843.76 --> 3845.36] learning what Christianity was about. -[3845.44 --> 3846.60] And a number of them were saying, -[3846.72 --> 3847.86] we'll do a Bible study. -[3847.96 --> 3850.78] So we had a student from Iraq, Iran, China, -[3850.92 --> 3853.34] and Japan in that Bible study. -[3853.94 --> 3855.68] And I remember very vividly, -[3855.76 --> 3857.86] near the end of our study on the book of Mark, -[3857.86 --> 3860.10] we were talking about the death and resurrection of Jesus, -[3860.28 --> 3863.10] like my most favorite thing to talk about. -[3863.60 --> 3865.66] And there's a lot of questions around, -[3865.78 --> 3867.44] like how did the resurrection happen, -[3867.72 --> 3869.36] what to make of it, what it means. -[3869.62 --> 3872.28] And then there's this Japanese student named Naoko. -[3873.20 --> 3875.28] She didn't say much with the whole Bible study -[3875.28 --> 3876.50] until the very end. -[3876.64 --> 3878.18] And this was her question. -[3878.50 --> 3879.28] She said, -[3879.28 --> 3883.40] where is Jesus right now? -[3883.88 --> 3885.70] And what is he doing? -[3886.88 --> 3888.38] Isn't that such a good question? -[3888.88 --> 3889.76] And I remember like, -[3889.86 --> 3891.28] not prepared for that, by the way. -[3891.30 --> 3891.82] And I'm just like, -[3891.88 --> 3893.00] I bumbled out an answer. -[3893.20 --> 3895.88] But before I even say anything about this question, -[3896.14 --> 3897.98] what would you say to someone -[3897.98 --> 3899.16] who is not a Christian, -[3899.40 --> 3900.52] did not grow up in the church, -[3900.54 --> 3901.66] who asked you the question, -[3902.28 --> 3904.10] where is Jesus right now? -[3905.00 --> 3906.68] And what is he doing? -[3908.12 --> 3909.70] That's what we're going to explore this morning -[3909.70 --> 3911.00] as we look at Acts 1 -[3911.00 --> 3913.62] and a few other verses about Jesus. -[3913.86 --> 3915.32] And I'll just give you a brief overview -[3915.32 --> 3916.12] of where we're going. -[3916.74 --> 3918.04] And I was told by Chris, -[3918.16 --> 3918.60] Pastor Chris, -[3918.66 --> 3920.58] that he usually preaches for 40 to 45 minutes. -[3920.72 --> 3922.72] So we're going to go for about 45 minutes. -[3923.46 --> 3925.14] Oh, we'll see if I can get into that. -[3925.18 --> 3925.96] But this is where we're going. -[3926.76 --> 3927.30] Number one, -[3927.52 --> 3928.80] Jesus right now -[3928.80 --> 3931.26] is a king who's ruling the world -[3931.26 --> 3933.00] with love, justice, and mercy. -[3933.00 --> 3934.30] Number two, -[3934.36 --> 3936.34] we're going to look at how Jesus right now -[3936.34 --> 3938.06] is engaged in the work -[3938.06 --> 3940.64] of interceding for you and I as his children. -[3941.64 --> 3942.08] And third, -[3942.34 --> 3944.56] we're going to look at how Jesus is equipping us -[3944.56 --> 3946.56] right now by his spirit -[3946.56 --> 3948.44] for mission in his world. -[3949.90 --> 3951.70] Just before we dive into the passage, -[3951.78 --> 3954.30] I want to say one thing about Acts 1. -[3954.94 --> 3956.46] I want you to know that the disciples -[3956.46 --> 3957.48] who followed Jesus, -[3958.00 --> 3959.76] when he went to be with the Father -[3959.76 --> 3960.66] and ascended to heaven, -[3960.66 --> 3962.68] they would have been probably confused -[3962.68 --> 3964.50] and deeply disappointed. -[3965.40 --> 3966.80] I mean, just put yourself in their shoes -[3966.80 --> 3967.54] for one moment. -[3967.64 --> 3969.14] They followed this guy for three years. -[3969.24 --> 3970.24] They gave up everything -[3970.24 --> 3972.56] to be committed to this movement of Jesus -[3972.56 --> 3974.86] with some confusion about where it goes. -[3975.62 --> 3977.90] They went through the gut-wrenching agony -[3977.90 --> 3979.82] of watching their leader get crucified, -[3980.40 --> 3981.60] dead on a cross. -[3981.84 --> 3983.84] And then they went through the overwhelming joy -[3983.84 --> 3985.52] of Jesus then coming back to life. -[3985.68 --> 3987.92] And they had this sweet 40 days, -[3988.02 --> 3988.94] we read in this passage, -[3988.94 --> 3990.84] of Jesus going around the city, -[3991.34 --> 3992.66] telling people he's alive, -[3992.72 --> 3994.14] in his resurrected body, -[3994.14 --> 3997.86] and then, poof, Jesus is gone. -[3998.94 --> 4000.86] What they wanted of Jesus -[4000.86 --> 4003.38] is to continue doing what's going on. -[4003.48 --> 4005.84] They wanted Jesus to be the new King David, -[4006.10 --> 4007.68] sitting on a throne in Jerusalem, -[4007.90 --> 4009.20] establishing Israel -[4009.20 --> 4011.14] and making the city great again. -[4011.76 --> 4012.88] And then Jesus leaves. -[4012.88 --> 4013.88] And what he says to them is, -[4014.32 --> 4015.12] here's my blessing. -[4016.04 --> 4017.18] You're going to be my witnesses. -[4017.78 --> 4019.50] And off he goes to be with the Father. -[4019.62 --> 4022.14] They must have been so confused. -[4023.54 --> 4025.76] But Acts 1 answers the first half -[4025.76 --> 4027.44] of Naoko's question, right? -[4027.84 --> 4029.52] Her question was, where is Jesus? -[4029.64 --> 4031.76] And what do the two men dressed in white, -[4032.06 --> 4033.68] the two angels say to the disciples? -[4035.26 --> 4036.04] He's in heaven. -[4037.22 --> 4039.28] Jesus Christ is in heaven. -[4039.58 --> 4041.36] And maybe if you're honest with yourself, -[4041.36 --> 4043.66] you might have the question, well, where is that? -[4043.94 --> 4045.16] Like, what is heaven? -[4045.26 --> 4046.94] When I gave this answer to Naoko, -[4047.08 --> 4049.26] she had 10 more questions about heaven. -[4049.40 --> 4050.76] And I'm going to just say briefly, -[4051.34 --> 4052.98] oftentimes we imagine heaven -[4052.98 --> 4055.80] as sort of this ethereal place beyond the clouds. -[4056.14 --> 4058.26] It's sort of this hard to imagine place. -[4059.04 --> 4060.14] There's mystery around heaven, -[4060.22 --> 4061.14] but what I'll say is this. -[4061.20 --> 4063.16] It is deeply interlocked -[4063.16 --> 4066.34] and interweaving with our lives on earth. -[4066.82 --> 4067.78] I do not believe that heaven -[4067.78 --> 4070.70] is some far off disconnected place from our reality. -[4070.70 --> 4073.64] It's interlocked and interweaving with earth. -[4073.74 --> 4074.68] Whatever that looks like, -[4074.92 --> 4076.90] that's how I believe the scriptures present heaven. -[4077.52 --> 4078.68] One writer I really love, -[4078.74 --> 4081.84] he says that heaven is the control room for earth. -[4082.44 --> 4084.34] And I wrote this down so not to forget it. -[4084.38 --> 4085.68] When I taught youth about heaven, -[4086.04 --> 4087.78] one of them said back to me recently, -[4088.00 --> 4089.40] it's kind of like Stranger Things. -[4089.92 --> 4091.38] Now, I haven't seen Stranger Things, -[4091.58 --> 4093.58] but maybe that's a good sort of connection point -[4093.58 --> 4095.24] in terms of the interlocking nature -[4095.24 --> 4096.70] of heaven and on earth. -[4096.70 --> 4099.02] Jesus is in heaven. -[4099.54 --> 4100.64] And what you need to know is -[4100.64 --> 4101.74] Jesus' ultimate purpose -[4101.74 --> 4105.08] is the perfect unity of heaven and earth, right? -[4105.12 --> 4106.16] That's what we pray for. -[4106.42 --> 4107.54] When we pray the Lord's Prayer, -[4107.64 --> 4110.86] your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. -[4111.28 --> 4113.94] And when Jesus comes back in glory and power -[4113.94 --> 4115.78] at the end to restore all things, -[4116.18 --> 4118.64] heaven and earth will be perfectly united. -[4118.64 --> 4120.20] And we will experience heaven -[4120.20 --> 4122.92] in our lives on a new earth. -[4123.74 --> 4125.30] So Jesus is in heaven. -[4125.76 --> 4128.00] Now, we're going to ask the second half -[4128.00 --> 4129.02] of Naoko's question, -[4129.48 --> 4132.16] what is Jesus doing in heaven, -[4132.28 --> 4133.54] the control room for earth? -[4133.70 --> 4135.58] What is Jesus giving his time to? -[4135.64 --> 4137.10] This might be one of the most important questions -[4137.10 --> 4138.24] you've never asked. -[4138.90 --> 4140.60] And the first answer to that -[4140.60 --> 4143.90] is Jesus is ruling over this creation -[4143.90 --> 4148.22] with love and justice and power. -[4148.22 --> 4150.48] This creation, Ephesians says, -[4150.54 --> 4151.88] is held together -[4151.88 --> 4154.32] because Jesus gives it life -[4154.32 --> 4155.88] and gives us life -[4155.88 --> 4156.82] and allows us to live. -[4156.88 --> 4157.46] Without Jesus, -[4157.66 --> 4159.68] you sort of unplug Jesus from this world, -[4159.98 --> 4161.12] everything implodes. -[4161.40 --> 4163.54] That's how important his rule is over the world. -[4164.34 --> 4167.44] So many passages in the Bible -[4167.44 --> 4169.44] celebrate the authority -[4169.44 --> 4171.88] and the kingship of Jesus over creation. -[4172.20 --> 4173.38] I want to read just one of them -[4173.38 --> 4174.60] that I touched on last night -[4174.60 --> 4175.88] from Ephesians 1. -[4175.88 --> 4178.46] That's what we read in Ephesians 1. -[4179.04 --> 4179.86] That power, -[4180.72 --> 4182.90] the same power that he exerted, -[4182.94 --> 4183.52] that's God, -[4183.62 --> 4185.32] when he raised Christ from the dead -[4185.32 --> 4187.78] and seated him at his right hand -[4187.78 --> 4188.98] in the heavenly realms, -[4189.32 --> 4191.84] far above any rule and authority, -[4192.50 --> 4193.76] power and dominion, -[4194.04 --> 4195.78] and every name that can be invoked, -[4195.96 --> 4197.82] not only in the present age, -[4197.98 --> 4200.48] but also in the one to come. -[4200.48 --> 4203.18] Can I just invite you to allow that -[4203.18 --> 4205.84] to expand your vision of Jesus, right? -[4206.64 --> 4207.74] What the author of Hebrews, -[4208.00 --> 4210.84] of Ephesians and Romans and Hebrews -[4210.84 --> 4211.84] are all trying to say is -[4211.84 --> 4214.22] Jesus is above every name, -[4214.60 --> 4215.40] every authority, -[4215.70 --> 4216.56] every world leader, -[4216.92 --> 4218.16] every spiritual force -[4218.16 --> 4219.78] that could be invoked now and forever. -[4220.02 --> 4221.90] He's above all those things. -[4222.66 --> 4223.26] And Ephesians says, -[4223.36 --> 4226.12] all things are placed under Jesus' feet. -[4226.42 --> 4227.34] That's the authority -[4227.34 --> 4228.98] of the Jesus we worship this morning. -[4230.04 --> 4232.30] No rival can take Jesus down. -[4232.56 --> 4233.50] No one can kill him -[4233.50 --> 4234.96] because that's already been done -[4234.96 --> 4236.60] and Jesus came back from the grave -[4236.60 --> 4238.28] to rule over all things. -[4239.94 --> 4241.88] There's a writer I read two years ago. -[4243.34 --> 4245.14] His name is David Levithan. -[4245.20 --> 4245.66] Maybe you know him. -[4245.68 --> 4247.50] He's actually a famous American journalist -[4247.50 --> 4248.08] and author -[4248.08 --> 4249.60] and not a Christian. -[4250.12 --> 4251.18] And this is what he writes -[4251.18 --> 4251.78] about the universe. -[4251.92 --> 4253.94] This is just like a startling statement -[4253.94 --> 4255.16] that we need to respond to. -[4255.16 --> 4255.52] He says, -[4255.62 --> 4257.62] if you stare at the universe, -[4258.08 --> 4259.58] the center of the universe, -[4259.92 --> 4261.86] you will find coldness there. -[4263.60 --> 4264.08] Blankness. -[4264.96 --> 4266.00] Ultimately, he writes, -[4266.10 --> 4269.22] the universe does not care for us at all. -[4269.40 --> 4270.38] And then he goes on to say, -[4270.54 --> 4271.76] that's why we have to take care -[4271.76 --> 4272.54] of our own lives. -[4272.84 --> 4274.84] And over and against that statement, -[4274.96 --> 4276.10] which I think is very depressing, -[4276.52 --> 4277.56] all of us can say, -[4277.68 --> 4279.08] at the center of the universe -[4279.08 --> 4281.54] is a living resurrected king -[4281.54 --> 4283.04] in a resurrected body -[4283.04 --> 4285.62] who holds all things together -[4285.62 --> 4288.22] and governs everything in this world -[4288.22 --> 4289.36] according to his purpose -[4289.36 --> 4291.94] and his will will be done. -[4292.70 --> 4293.70] That's your king. -[4294.20 --> 4295.22] That's King Jesus. -[4297.68 --> 4298.16] Secondly, -[4298.30 --> 4300.16] so the first thing about Jesus' kingship -[4300.16 --> 4302.46] is he's right now ruling over creation -[4302.46 --> 4303.78] and it's all held together -[4303.78 --> 4305.08] by his power and his goodness -[4305.08 --> 4305.82] and his justice. -[4306.34 --> 4306.78] Secondly, -[4307.26 --> 4308.20] the scriptures teach us -[4308.20 --> 4310.04] that at this very moment, -[4310.64 --> 4312.72] Jesus is interceding for you -[4312.72 --> 4313.86] and for me. -[4314.70 --> 4315.76] Just take that in for a minute. -[4316.46 --> 4317.48] That's what he's doing right now. -[4317.84 --> 4319.78] Like the present tense ministry of Jesus -[4319.78 --> 4321.24] is interceding for us. -[4321.26 --> 4322.68] Let me read us a verse -[4322.68 --> 4324.06] from Romans chapter eight. -[4324.54 --> 4326.12] This is so powerful on so many levels. -[4326.66 --> 4327.82] We read from Romans eight, -[4327.82 --> 4329.80] who will bring any charge -[4329.80 --> 4331.52] against those whom God has chosen? -[4332.20 --> 4333.94] It's God who justifies. -[4333.94 --> 4336.42] Who then is the one who can condemn? -[4337.12 --> 4337.86] No one. -[4338.58 --> 4340.14] It's Jesus Christ who died. -[4340.30 --> 4340.86] More than that, -[4340.94 --> 4342.48] who was raised to life -[4342.48 --> 4343.72] is at the right hand of God. -[4343.80 --> 4344.58] And listen to this, -[4345.18 --> 4348.38] and is also interceding for us. -[4348.40 --> 4349.36] And that is actually a phrase -[4349.36 --> 4351.38] repeated in multiple passages. -[4352.04 --> 4353.48] The Jesus who defeated death, -[4353.78 --> 4354.68] the Jesus who is now -[4354.68 --> 4355.66] at the right hand of the father -[4355.66 --> 4357.36] is giving his time -[4357.36 --> 4358.96] to intercede for you. -[4359.76 --> 4360.32] And this, by the way, -[4360.34 --> 4361.08] if you're here last night, -[4361.16 --> 4362.04] this weaves together -[4362.04 --> 4363.72] the priestly ministry of Jesus -[4363.72 --> 4365.26] of interceding, -[4365.64 --> 4367.72] of taking our concerns to God. -[4367.82 --> 4369.38] Jesus is doing that very thing -[4369.38 --> 4370.98] at the right hand of the father. -[4373.32 --> 4374.84] Recently, I came across an artist -[4374.84 --> 4376.48] whose name is Elizabeth Wang, -[4376.98 --> 4377.94] Chinese artist, -[4378.36 --> 4379.84] also a Catholic artist. -[4380.04 --> 4383.36] And she has done like 10 pieces of art -[4383.36 --> 4385.54] on the intercessory work of Jesus now. -[4385.60 --> 4386.68] And I haven't actually come across -[4386.68 --> 4387.96] a lot of art on this, -[4388.06 --> 4389.10] but I think it's on the screen -[4389.10 --> 4390.14] or it will be on the screen. -[4390.78 --> 4391.40] There it is. -[4391.40 --> 4392.58] Oh, it's not as huge -[4392.58 --> 4393.32] as I'd like it to be, -[4393.44 --> 4395.38] but I can walk us through it. -[4395.44 --> 4397.86] So she's depicting a person praying. -[4397.98 --> 4398.54] See at the bottom, -[4398.66 --> 4399.36] the silhouette there, -[4399.44 --> 4400.02] the person praying. -[4400.08 --> 4400.88] There's a sense of like, -[4401.16 --> 4402.36] they are in their life. -[4402.62 --> 4403.32] There's almost a sense -[4403.32 --> 4404.80] of being downcast in prayer -[4404.80 --> 4405.86] and burdened by life. -[4406.04 --> 4406.76] And then what do you see -[4406.76 --> 4407.20] at the center? -[4407.20 --> 4410.54] You see this huge Jesus, right? -[4410.74 --> 4412.60] You see the nail holes in his hands -[4412.60 --> 4415.16] and then you see the presence of God above him. -[4415.22 --> 4416.84] And Jesus is just taking that prayer -[4416.84 --> 4419.00] from us broken, weak humans -[4419.00 --> 4421.00] and he's bringing it to the father, -[4421.52 --> 4423.00] interceding on our behalf. -[4423.38 --> 4426.44] Is that how you picture Jesus right now -[4426.44 --> 4428.08] on behalf of the church, -[4428.42 --> 4429.86] on behalf of our brokenness? -[4429.86 --> 4431.84] That's the beauty of your savior, -[4432.44 --> 4432.90] your king. -[4435.82 --> 4438.78] Now I want to talk about the third thing -[4438.78 --> 4440.76] that Jesus is doing right now -[4440.76 --> 4441.82] in heaven, -[4442.08 --> 4442.90] in real time. -[4443.32 --> 4444.96] And that is equipping us -[4444.96 --> 4446.26] for mission. -[4446.96 --> 4448.44] Equipping every single one of us -[4448.44 --> 4449.82] from the youngest to the oldest -[4449.82 --> 4451.46] for ministry by the power -[4451.46 --> 4452.30] of the Holy Spirit. -[4453.10 --> 4454.98] In fact, there's this like strange verse -[4454.98 --> 4456.56] in John chapter 14 -[4456.56 --> 4459.02] where Jesus is preparing his disciples -[4459.02 --> 4460.58] for his leaving. -[4460.72 --> 4461.52] He says, I'm going to die, -[4461.58 --> 4462.50] I'm going to rise and depart -[4462.50 --> 4464.28] and then I'm going to ascend you to the spirit. -[4464.40 --> 4465.22] And then he says this, -[4465.32 --> 4466.78] it's better that I go. -[4467.48 --> 4468.26] And the disciples are like, -[4468.30 --> 4469.78] they're not buying that for one second. -[4469.94 --> 4470.92] They're like, it's not better -[4470.92 --> 4471.66] that you go, Jesus. -[4471.74 --> 4473.10] We want you to stay right where you are. -[4473.30 --> 4474.90] We want you to reestablish Israel. -[4475.02 --> 4476.28] Jesus is like, it's better that I go. -[4476.28 --> 4477.22] What does he say next? -[4478.68 --> 4482.28] For you will do greater things than these. -[4483.30 --> 4484.38] And most of us are like, -[4484.44 --> 4485.58] I don't know if I believe that either. -[4485.90 --> 4487.14] But what Jesus knows -[4487.14 --> 4489.10] that the church does not yet know -[4489.10 --> 4490.72] is that he's going to ascend -[4490.72 --> 4491.50] to be with the Father. -[4491.66 --> 4493.18] And the first thing he's going to do -[4493.18 --> 4495.04] is pour out the very power -[4495.04 --> 4495.84] of the resurrection -[4495.84 --> 4498.20] through the Holy Spirit on the church -[4498.20 --> 4499.84] so that they can do, -[4500.66 --> 4502.04] that we can do -[4502.04 --> 4505.36] the same things that Jesus did. -[4507.18 --> 4509.14] John Mark Homer, an author I quite like, -[4509.24 --> 4510.44] he describes discipleship -[4510.44 --> 4512.00] in three simple phrases. -[4512.80 --> 4514.34] Discipleship is being with Jesus, -[4515.46 --> 4517.36] it's becoming like Jesus in our character, -[4517.98 --> 4520.78] and it is doing what Jesus did. -[4521.16 --> 4522.96] When Jesus ascends to be with the Father -[4522.96 --> 4524.28] and he pours out his Spirit, -[4524.60 --> 4526.14] he says to all of his believers, -[4526.64 --> 4528.66] you now get to do -[4528.66 --> 4530.90] what I have done -[4530.90 --> 4532.40] by my Spirit. -[4532.88 --> 4534.56] And that's a word for every single one of us -[4534.56 --> 4535.10] this morning. -[4536.22 --> 4537.82] And now for the next few minutes, -[4537.82 --> 4538.62] I'm going to wrap up -[4538.62 --> 4540.30] not just this morning's message, -[4540.62 --> 4541.94] but all three talks -[4541.94 --> 4543.72] on Jesus as our prophet, -[4544.06 --> 4544.74] our priest, -[4544.92 --> 4545.58] and our king -[4545.58 --> 4546.56] by saying that Jesus -[4546.56 --> 4549.00] invites every single one of us -[4549.00 --> 4551.22] into the ministry of prophecy, -[4552.36 --> 4553.24] of priestliness, -[4553.98 --> 4555.04] and of his kingship. -[4555.16 --> 4555.78] Do you know this? -[4556.52 --> 4557.56] Jesus invites us now -[4557.56 --> 4558.98] to do what he does. -[4559.06 --> 4560.44] This is what it means in Acts 1 -[4560.44 --> 4561.16] when Jesus says, -[4561.16 --> 4562.14] your identity -[4562.14 --> 4564.66] is to be my witnesses. -[4565.94 --> 4567.40] You now get to share -[4567.40 --> 4567.96] in the ministry -[4567.96 --> 4569.36] of his prophetic words, -[4569.68 --> 4571.20] of his priestly intercession, -[4571.56 --> 4572.76] and his kingly rule. -[4573.30 --> 4573.92] And is it okay now -[4573.92 --> 4574.68] if I take a few minutes -[4574.68 --> 4575.38] to tease that out? -[4577.32 --> 4578.26] You church, -[4578.56 --> 4579.22] along with me, -[4579.32 --> 4580.48] get to be the ones -[4580.48 --> 4581.68] who just like Jesus, -[4582.28 --> 4584.08] speak God's word. -[4584.44 --> 4584.62] Right? -[4585.04 --> 4585.68] On Friday night, -[4585.72 --> 4586.24] we looked at how -[4586.24 --> 4587.38] the primary work -[4587.38 --> 4588.04] of a prophet -[4588.04 --> 4589.08] in the Old Testament -[4589.08 --> 4591.48] was to speak God's word. -[4591.84 --> 4593.12] And every single one of us -[4593.12 --> 4594.80] is invited to teach it -[4594.80 --> 4595.98] to those who God -[4595.98 --> 4597.96] puts authority under us, -[4598.08 --> 4599.30] as well as to share it -[4599.30 --> 4600.22] with those around us. -[4600.48 --> 4601.04] And here's why -[4601.04 --> 4601.74] I'm going to pause -[4601.74 --> 4602.36] and say, -[4603.08 --> 4604.06] praise the Lord -[4604.06 --> 4605.46] for every youth leader -[4605.46 --> 4606.02] in this room. -[4606.08 --> 4606.38] And actually, -[4606.44 --> 4607.30] I want the youth leaders -[4607.30 --> 4607.74] who are here -[4607.74 --> 4608.72] to raise their hands. -[4609.80 --> 4610.46] There you are. -[4610.64 --> 4612.16] I am so thankful -[4612.16 --> 4613.38] for what you do -[4613.38 --> 4614.68] like on Tuesday nights -[4614.68 --> 4615.48] and Thursday nights -[4615.48 --> 4616.32] and Friday nights -[4616.32 --> 4617.88] in like church basements -[4617.88 --> 4618.74] and living rooms -[4618.74 --> 4619.50] of people in the church. -[4619.78 --> 4620.66] You are teaching -[4620.66 --> 4621.30] the scriptures -[4621.30 --> 4623.50] to this next generation -[4623.50 --> 4624.40] and that is one -[4624.40 --> 4626.12] of the most essential tasks -[4626.12 --> 4627.22] for the church today. -[4627.34 --> 4628.46] I praise the Lord for you. -[4628.80 --> 4630.46] And you are doing exactly -[4630.46 --> 4631.96] what the prophetic ministry -[4631.96 --> 4633.32] of Jesus is all about. -[4633.46 --> 4634.36] That is teaching -[4634.36 --> 4636.38] the word of God. -[4636.62 --> 4637.84] I am so thankful -[4637.84 --> 4638.88] for the youth leaders -[4638.88 --> 4639.44] in this room, -[4639.70 --> 4640.74] especially in the moments -[4640.74 --> 4641.80] where it feels thankless -[4641.80 --> 4642.66] and the students -[4642.66 --> 4643.94] might smell a little bit. -[4644.32 --> 4645.06] Even then, -[4645.44 --> 4646.58] this is the prophetic ministry -[4646.58 --> 4647.80] that you have been called into. -[4648.74 --> 4650.44] But secondly, -[4650.76 --> 4651.84] the prophetic ministry -[4651.84 --> 4653.38] of Jesus also involves -[4653.38 --> 4655.16] sharing the gospel. -[4656.14 --> 4657.38] It involves speaking -[4657.38 --> 4658.42] why you believe -[4658.42 --> 4659.40] what you do about Jesus -[4659.40 --> 4660.20] with classmates, -[4660.96 --> 4661.36] coworkers, -[4662.08 --> 4663.32] friends on the soccer field, -[4663.66 --> 4664.94] friends on the volleyball court, -[4665.06 --> 4665.78] and neighbors. -[4666.44 --> 4666.62] Right? -[4666.88 --> 4667.66] And this might be -[4667.66 --> 4668.58] like every student -[4668.58 --> 4670.62] and parents, -[4671.32 --> 4672.00] greatest fear, -[4672.58 --> 4673.22] evangelism, -[4673.36 --> 4674.14] sharing the gospel. -[4674.78 --> 4675.86] And let me just put it this way. -[4675.86 --> 4678.04] The most easy way -[4678.04 --> 4679.02] to do evangelism -[4679.02 --> 4680.74] is to talk as you are -[4680.74 --> 4682.72] about your ordinary life -[4682.72 --> 4683.82] as someone who loves Jesus. -[4684.18 --> 4685.76] You don't need to be a ninja about it. -[4686.24 --> 4686.86] Like go in there, -[4686.96 --> 4688.04] like chop someone with Jesus -[4688.04 --> 4688.84] with this phrase. -[4689.02 --> 4689.78] You just need to live -[4689.78 --> 4690.76] your ordinary life -[4690.76 --> 4692.04] and be willing to speak -[4692.04 --> 4692.56] about Jesus -[4692.56 --> 4693.44] as the questions -[4693.44 --> 4695.26] and the conversations arise. -[4695.96 --> 4696.96] And what I learned -[4696.96 --> 4698.46] when I was a youth pastor -[4698.46 --> 4700.00] is you don't need -[4700.00 --> 4700.80] to go far away -[4700.80 --> 4701.56] to find the people -[4701.56 --> 4701.96] in your life -[4701.96 --> 4702.90] who don't yet know Jesus -[4702.90 --> 4703.74] or do not know -[4703.74 --> 4704.48] the word of God. -[4704.64 --> 4705.28] They're usually -[4705.28 --> 4705.94] in your neighborhood. -[4706.30 --> 4707.26] They're close by. -[4707.38 --> 4707.84] It's a student -[4707.84 --> 4709.26] who sits beside you in class -[4709.26 --> 4710.00] or the person -[4710.00 --> 4710.92] you're already friends with. -[4711.30 --> 4712.54] Those are the people -[4712.54 --> 4714.64] that Jesus himself says, -[4714.74 --> 4715.66] you are my witnesses -[4715.66 --> 4717.04] to share the living word -[4717.04 --> 4717.68] of God to -[4717.68 --> 4719.28] in your ordinary life. -[4719.72 --> 4720.66] And whatever fears -[4720.66 --> 4721.62] you have about that, -[4722.12 --> 4723.16] bring to your heavenly father -[4723.16 --> 4723.64] in prayer -[4723.64 --> 4724.66] and know that Jesus, -[4724.84 --> 4725.30] your king, -[4725.50 --> 4726.78] is interceding for you -[4726.78 --> 4727.70] to do that well. -[4727.70 --> 4730.38] You and I are called -[4730.38 --> 4731.12] to the ministry -[4731.12 --> 4733.24] of being prophets, -[4733.96 --> 4735.34] of speaking God's word. -[4735.68 --> 4736.34] But secondly, -[4736.52 --> 4737.78] you are also invited -[4737.78 --> 4739.52] into the priestly ministry. -[4739.96 --> 4741.00] And the priestly ministry, -[4741.14 --> 4742.10] as we looked at last night, -[4742.28 --> 4743.08] is that ministry -[4743.08 --> 4743.84] of intercession. -[4744.48 --> 4745.26] You are not called -[4745.26 --> 4746.34] to do what Jesus does -[4746.34 --> 4747.14] in the sense of giving -[4747.14 --> 4747.82] a sacrifice -[4747.82 --> 4749.08] for the sake of the world -[4749.08 --> 4749.82] once and for all -[4749.82 --> 4750.52] that's been done. -[4750.72 --> 4751.68] But you are called -[4751.68 --> 4752.78] to make your life -[4752.78 --> 4753.86] a living sacrifice. -[4754.90 --> 4755.86] And you are called -[4755.86 --> 4756.68] to intercede -[4756.68 --> 4757.96] for those around you. -[4759.46 --> 4760.78] There are so many things, -[4761.62 --> 4762.76] so many problems, -[4763.20 --> 4764.34] so much brokenness -[4764.34 --> 4765.44] that you cannot solve. -[4766.12 --> 4767.74] But you can always pray. -[4768.88 --> 4770.16] In my role as a pastor, -[4770.54 --> 4771.98] I often feel overwhelmed -[4771.98 --> 4773.36] by the needs around me. -[4773.80 --> 4774.96] I feel incapable -[4774.96 --> 4775.56] of solving -[4775.56 --> 4777.10] even a small fraction -[4777.10 --> 4778.36] of the challenges -[4778.36 --> 4779.20] that come my way. -[4779.44 --> 4780.42] And when that happens, -[4780.72 --> 4781.98] I am increasingly saying, -[4782.08 --> 4782.52] all right, Lord, -[4782.80 --> 4784.18] this is what I can't do. -[4784.26 --> 4785.30] I'm just Dave Groon, -[4785.30 --> 4786.34] but I can pray -[4786.34 --> 4787.02] for that couple. -[4787.82 --> 4789.18] I can pray for that marriage. -[4789.32 --> 4790.10] I can pray for that -[4790.10 --> 4790.80] broken relationship. -[4790.92 --> 4792.00] I can pray for the student -[4792.00 --> 4793.30] who just got let go -[4793.30 --> 4794.04] of this position. -[4794.30 --> 4795.04] I can pray. -[4795.54 --> 4796.52] I can intercede. -[4798.12 --> 4799.26] And here's my hunch. -[4801.22 --> 4803.04] God generally places -[4803.04 --> 4804.02] on your heart -[4804.02 --> 4805.52] the people -[4805.52 --> 4806.66] and the issues -[4806.66 --> 4807.72] and the places -[4807.72 --> 4809.42] that you should intercede for. -[4810.08 --> 4811.00] I'm always amazed -[4811.00 --> 4811.86] when I talk to students -[4811.86 --> 4812.42] and when I talk -[4812.42 --> 4813.02] to young adults, -[4813.38 --> 4814.02] when I ask them, -[4814.12 --> 4814.16] like, -[4814.16 --> 4814.72] what are the burdens -[4814.72 --> 4815.20] of your life -[4815.20 --> 4816.16] or who's on your heart? -[4816.24 --> 4816.36] Like, -[4816.40 --> 4817.30] God's already placing -[4817.30 --> 4818.02] on your heart -[4818.02 --> 4819.46] and has already -[4819.46 --> 4820.70] in your relationship circle -[4820.70 --> 4822.22] the people that he's inviting -[4822.22 --> 4823.40] you to intercede for, -[4823.92 --> 4825.16] to be the priest for. -[4825.54 --> 4826.38] All you need to do -[4826.38 --> 4827.22] is take those names -[4827.22 --> 4828.10] and take those thoughts -[4828.10 --> 4829.54] and bring that into prayer -[4829.54 --> 4830.80] and allow God -[4830.80 --> 4832.32] to do what only God can do -[4832.32 --> 4833.22] in these broken, -[4833.48 --> 4834.50] difficult relationships -[4834.50 --> 4835.50] and situations. -[4836.16 --> 4837.12] You were called -[4837.12 --> 4837.92] into the ministry -[4837.92 --> 4838.92] of the priesthood. -[4838.92 --> 4841.40] And then thirdly, -[4842.88 --> 4843.28] you're called -[4843.28 --> 4843.98] to be kings -[4843.98 --> 4845.32] and queens. -[4845.70 --> 4846.36] Does that sound weird? -[4847.24 --> 4848.42] Jesus invites you -[4848.42 --> 4849.16] to share -[4849.16 --> 4850.74] in his kingly ministry. -[4850.88 --> 4851.44] And you're probably thinking, -[4851.60 --> 4851.66] like, -[4851.74 --> 4853.18] what in the world -[4853.18 --> 4854.26] does that mean? -[4855.42 --> 4855.68] You know, -[4855.74 --> 4856.62] Jesus always, -[4856.72 --> 4857.06] I should say, -[4857.10 --> 4857.66] God always, -[4857.72 --> 4858.52] from the very beginning, -[4858.62 --> 4859.44] creating Adam and Eve, -[4859.66 --> 4861.56] he wanted his humans -[4861.56 --> 4863.36] to rule over this world well. -[4864.00 --> 4865.02] And things went sideways -[4865.02 --> 4866.24] when sin came into the world -[4866.24 --> 4867.16] and we started getting greedy -[4867.16 --> 4867.84] and selfish -[4867.84 --> 4868.90] and we started ruling -[4868.90 --> 4869.60] very terribly. -[4869.94 --> 4870.78] And the work of Jesus, -[4871.32 --> 4872.64] the sacrifice on the cross, -[4872.96 --> 4874.02] enables us to rule -[4874.02 --> 4874.92] over this world -[4874.92 --> 4876.78] under Jesus' authority -[4876.78 --> 4878.66] well and with justice -[4878.66 --> 4880.24] and love and goodness. -[4881.20 --> 4883.06] And every single one of us, -[4883.22 --> 4884.58] and I do mean every one of us, -[4884.62 --> 4885.24] even our youngest, -[4885.82 --> 4886.82] there's something -[4886.82 --> 4888.30] that God places -[4888.30 --> 4889.52] under your authority. -[4890.64 --> 4890.82] Right? -[4891.54 --> 4892.38] There are people, -[4892.46 --> 4892.96] if you're a parent, -[4893.04 --> 4893.48] there's people -[4893.48 --> 4894.78] God places under your authority. -[4894.98 --> 4895.48] If you're a teacher, -[4895.60 --> 4896.08] there are children -[4896.08 --> 4896.94] under your authority. -[4897.16 --> 4897.90] If you're a student, -[4898.80 --> 4899.80] perhaps you are a leader -[4899.80 --> 4900.90] on your basketball team. -[4901.52 --> 4902.70] Perhaps you're an older sibling. -[4903.40 --> 4904.44] Perhaps you have influence -[4904.44 --> 4905.12] among your friends -[4905.12 --> 4906.20] and they kind of look up to you. -[4906.22 --> 4907.60] In all these spaces, -[4908.32 --> 4910.02] God calls you to lead, -[4910.46 --> 4911.58] to take on that sort of -[4911.58 --> 4912.70] kingly authority -[4912.70 --> 4914.22] and to love well -[4914.22 --> 4915.32] with the authority you have, -[4915.38 --> 4917.06] to lead well and generously -[4917.06 --> 4918.32] and with justice -[4918.32 --> 4919.60] in all the places -[4919.60 --> 4921.00] you find yourself. -[4921.00 --> 4922.48] You were called to share -[4922.48 --> 4924.92] in Jesus' kingly ministry. -[4924.92 --> 4928.26] There's a young guy -[4928.26 --> 4929.54] I was discipling for a while. -[4930.28 --> 4931.14] He's actually now -[4931.14 --> 4932.64] in grad school. -[4933.76 --> 4934.86] And as we were working out -[4934.86 --> 4935.84] in his place, -[4935.88 --> 4936.12] actually, -[4936.18 --> 4936.86] where he works, -[4937.62 --> 4938.66] he's studying to be a doctor, -[4938.74 --> 4939.36] a medical doctor, -[4939.46 --> 4939.70] and he, -[4939.96 --> 4940.56] throughout his studies, -[4940.64 --> 4941.14] is just finding -[4941.14 --> 4941.90] some of the challenges -[4941.90 --> 4942.88] that come with sort of -[4942.88 --> 4944.00] being in the medical space, -[4944.28 --> 4944.84] being a Christian -[4944.84 --> 4945.44] in that sphere, -[4945.86 --> 4946.62] and just thinking about -[4946.62 --> 4947.30] what kind of authority -[4947.30 --> 4947.78] does he have, -[4947.82 --> 4948.64] what kind of influence -[4948.64 --> 4949.34] does he have. -[4949.34 --> 4950.72] And he shared with me -[4950.72 --> 4952.14] one of the convictions he had. -[4952.24 --> 4952.88] This actually comes -[4952.88 --> 4953.54] from C.S. Lewis, -[4953.68 --> 4954.10] and he said, -[4954.58 --> 4955.82] as I think about my life -[4955.82 --> 4957.08] and the sphere I'm in now, -[4957.62 --> 4958.40] I think the way -[4958.40 --> 4959.40] that I witness to Jesus -[4959.40 --> 4960.62] is what's called -[4960.62 --> 4962.00] the bright light -[4962.00 --> 4963.84] of a life well lived. -[4964.42 --> 4965.26] Have you ever heard that phrase? -[4965.96 --> 4966.98] The bright light -[4966.98 --> 4968.64] of a life well lived. -[4968.68 --> 4969.42] And that is to say, -[4969.64 --> 4970.56] the way you live -[4970.56 --> 4972.56] in the ordinary places you are, -[4973.00 --> 4973.76] if you are seeking -[4973.76 --> 4975.20] to live under the authority -[4975.20 --> 4975.76] of Jesus -[4975.76 --> 4977.38] and take his word -[4977.38 --> 4978.68] into practice in your life, -[4978.68 --> 4980.14] there's a very good chance -[4980.14 --> 4981.02] that that is going -[4981.02 --> 4982.58] to speak volumes -[4982.58 --> 4983.88] about the gospel. -[4985.18 --> 4986.00] And it's my prayer -[4986.00 --> 4987.02] that even this week -[4987.02 --> 4987.86] and this month -[4987.86 --> 4989.00] that you will have people -[4989.00 --> 4990.18] who kind of look at you -[4990.18 --> 4990.70] and they're like -[4990.70 --> 4991.50] wondering about you -[4991.50 --> 4992.46] and they just have this hunch, -[4992.56 --> 4993.88] like this hunch that like, -[4993.96 --> 4994.90] ah, there's something about you -[4994.90 --> 4995.80] that's different, right? -[4996.02 --> 4997.28] There's a way you treat people, -[4997.36 --> 4998.10] the way you talk, -[4998.32 --> 4999.36] the way you use your money -[4999.36 --> 5000.02] that's just like, -[5000.28 --> 5001.80] and the answer is Jesus, right? -[5002.12 --> 5003.12] And you get to be the person -[5003.12 --> 5003.40] who's like, -[5003.48 --> 5004.42] yes, I'm a Christian. -[5004.88 --> 5006.02] I'm part of the church -[5006.02 --> 5007.14] and I believe that the way -[5007.14 --> 5007.54] of Jesus -[5007.54 --> 5008.66] is the way of life. -[5008.68 --> 5010.46] You and I share -[5010.46 --> 5013.16] in the kingly ministry of Jesus. -[5013.96 --> 5015.50] And to each and every one of us, -[5015.54 --> 5015.96] he says, -[5016.16 --> 5019.88] you are my witnesses. -[5023.04 --> 5024.06] I want to finish -[5024.06 --> 5024.96] with the good news -[5024.96 --> 5026.16] of the end of Acts 1. -[5027.98 --> 5029.46] Let me read for us again -[5029.46 --> 5032.40] what the two robed men in white -[5032.40 --> 5033.92] say to these confused, -[5034.14 --> 5034.80] perplexed, -[5034.80 --> 5036.46] and perhaps discouraged disciples. -[5036.46 --> 5037.68] They say, -[5037.68 --> 5038.82] this Jesus -[5038.82 --> 5039.76] who has been taken -[5039.76 --> 5040.90] from you into heaven, -[5041.42 --> 5043.16] he will come back -[5043.16 --> 5044.92] in the same way -[5044.92 --> 5045.96] you have seen him -[5045.96 --> 5047.38] go into heaven. -[5049.88 --> 5051.02] Jesus is coming -[5051.02 --> 5053.06] in glory -[5053.06 --> 5054.42] and power -[5054.42 --> 5055.32] and justice -[5055.32 --> 5056.12] and wisdom. -[5056.12 --> 5057.30] and when he does, -[5057.54 --> 5058.64] he is going to put to right -[5058.64 --> 5059.84] everything that is wrong -[5059.84 --> 5060.56] with this world, -[5060.86 --> 5061.74] everything that is wrong -[5061.74 --> 5062.52] with you and me, -[5062.64 --> 5063.86] and he's going to establish -[5063.86 --> 5065.52] a perfectly just, -[5066.08 --> 5067.36] loving world. -[5068.94 --> 5070.06] And there will come a day, -[5070.16 --> 5070.44] I pray, -[5070.54 --> 5071.18] where you and I -[5071.18 --> 5072.40] see face to face -[5072.40 --> 5073.08] Jesus, -[5073.24 --> 5074.24] the great high priest, -[5074.66 --> 5074.96] Jesus, -[5075.14 --> 5075.86] the great prophet, -[5075.86 --> 5076.60] and Jesus, -[5076.80 --> 5078.22] the rightful king, -[5078.40 --> 5079.66] and we worship at his feet -[5079.66 --> 5080.58] because he has made -[5080.58 --> 5081.40] all things new. -[5082.46 --> 5083.02] And on that day, -[5083.06 --> 5083.40] you're going to get -[5083.40 --> 5084.06] a new body -[5084.06 --> 5085.68] that is fully healthy, -[5085.84 --> 5087.52] a body that will live forever -[5087.52 --> 5088.24] in the same way -[5088.24 --> 5089.68] that Jesus' current body does, -[5089.82 --> 5090.48] and you will get -[5090.48 --> 5092.54] to experience forever -[5092.54 --> 5094.66] a world that is good -[5094.66 --> 5095.30] and right -[5095.30 --> 5096.10] and beautiful, -[5096.96 --> 5097.68] stripped free -[5097.68 --> 5098.54] of all the sin -[5098.54 --> 5099.16] that corrupts -[5099.16 --> 5099.64] and pollutes -[5099.64 --> 5100.76] all the relationships -[5100.76 --> 5101.46] we live in, -[5101.78 --> 5102.92] all the lives we live, -[5103.26 --> 5103.80] all the places -[5103.80 --> 5104.86] we study and work, -[5104.86 --> 5106.16] and it will be good -[5106.16 --> 5107.38] and it will be well -[5107.38 --> 5108.50] because Jesus, -[5108.68 --> 5109.16] your king, -[5109.52 --> 5110.62] is coming again. -[5111.64 --> 5112.42] And until that day, -[5112.50 --> 5113.66] he says to all of us, -[5114.18 --> 5117.64] you are my witnesses. -[5120.64 --> 5121.86] Let me lead us in prayer. -[5129.44 --> 5130.48] Jesus, we thank you -[5130.48 --> 5131.50] for sitting on the throne, -[5132.30 --> 5134.30] for being above -[5134.30 --> 5135.30] every authority, -[5136.38 --> 5137.16] every government, -[5137.94 --> 5138.76] every power, -[5139.26 --> 5140.44] every spiritual force -[5140.44 --> 5141.28] that we cannot see. -[5141.36 --> 5141.84] We thank you -[5141.84 --> 5143.32] that all those things -[5143.32 --> 5145.42] are under your rule. -[5146.72 --> 5147.32] And today, -[5147.44 --> 5148.14] even our worship -[5148.14 --> 5149.16] is a small act -[5149.16 --> 5149.60] of saying, -[5149.78 --> 5151.10] you are in control -[5151.10 --> 5152.04] and we praise you. -[5153.00 --> 5153.90] We ask that you -[5153.90 --> 5154.64] give us eyes -[5154.64 --> 5156.20] to see how our lives -[5156.20 --> 5157.72] are under your control -[5157.72 --> 5158.98] and we do not need to fear. -[5158.98 --> 5160.46] that our cities -[5160.46 --> 5161.20] and our country -[5161.20 --> 5162.28] is under your authority -[5162.28 --> 5163.50] and we do not need to fear. -[5163.50 --> 5164.70] Our futures -[5164.70 --> 5166.48] are under your authority -[5166.48 --> 5167.80] and we do not need to fear. -[5169.36 --> 5170.28] And our prayer, -[5170.44 --> 5170.52] Lord, -[5170.58 --> 5171.72] is that you would fill us -[5171.72 --> 5172.42] with the power -[5172.42 --> 5173.26] of your spirit -[5173.26 --> 5174.76] so that we would -[5174.76 --> 5176.46] in the most ordinary ways -[5176.46 --> 5177.88] be witnesses -[5177.88 --> 5178.86] to you, -[5179.02 --> 5179.80] the rightful king -[5179.80 --> 5180.42] of this world. -[5181.62 --> 5182.86] Use our words, -[5184.10 --> 5185.16] use our actions -[5185.16 --> 5186.58] to point our friends -[5186.58 --> 5187.22] and neighbors -[5187.22 --> 5188.08] and coworkers -[5188.08 --> 5189.84] to Jesus Christ, -[5190.00 --> 5190.58] our Savior -[5190.58 --> 5192.48] and our King. -[5193.24 --> 5194.22] It is in his name -[5194.22 --> 5194.78] we pray. -[5195.32 --> 5195.68] Amen. -[5197.12 --> 5198.22] Would you stand -[5198.22 --> 5199.30] and join me again -[5199.30 --> 5199.76] in worship? -[5199.76 --> 5199.92] Amen. -[5215.16 --> 5216.30] Amen. -[5216.30 --> 5216.50] Amen. -[5241.30 --> 5242.14] Amen. -[5242.14 --> 5254.14] You know me, all my secrets you see. You know me more. -[5254.14 --> 5269.14] You know me, all my vulnerability. But you know me more. -[5269.14 --> 5271.14] Oh. -[5284.14 --> 5298.14] You see me, all the truth you see. You see me, Lord. -[5298.14 --> 5312.14] You see me fighting my humanity. You see me torn. -[5312.14 --> 5336.14] You see me, Lord. You were, you are the king of everything. -[5336.14 --> 5354.14] You are the anthem over me. And I'm feeling your heart beat. It reverberates in me. -[5354.14 --> 5366.14] You hear me, every cry that I believe. You hear me, Lord. -[5366.14 --> 5393.14] You hear me, every cry that I believe. You hear me, Lord. You hear me, desperate for your sympathy. You hear me more. -[5393.14 --> 5416.14] You hear me, every cry that I believe. You hear me, Lord. You see me, Lord. You see me, Lord. You are the king of everything. -[5416.14 --> 5444.14] You hear me, every call of me. And I'm feeling your heart beat. It reverberates in me. In me. In me. -[5444.14 --> 5469.14] Fill these lungs with your glory and let them sing, you are King. -[5469.14 --> 5483.14] Fill these lungs with your glory and let them sing, you are King. -[5483.14 --> 5499.14] Fill these lungs with your glory and let them sing, you are King. -[5499.14 --> 5518.14] You are, you are the King of everything. -[5518.14 --> 5530.14] And you are still the end of all of me, feeling your heart beat. -[5530.14 --> 5542.14] And reverberate new hope, the King of everything. -[5542.14 --> 5554.14] The river over us, the river over us. -[5554.14 --> 5566.14] So fill these lungs. -[5566.14 --> 5570.14] I give it. -[5570.14 --> 5574.14] That's a rough transition. -[5574.14 --> 5576.14] We still love you buddy. -[5576.14 --> 5583.14] In just a minute, I'm going to invite Pastor Dave Ford. -[5583.14 --> 5588.14] He's going to lead us in God's blessing for us as we leave this place. -[5588.14 --> 5590.14] And then we're going to sing one more song. -[5590.14 --> 5597.14] And youth who are here for Reactivate, that will conclude Reactivate 2024. -[5597.14 --> 5604.14] And those of you who are from Emmanuel, that will conclude the church service on September the 8th, 2024. -[5604.14 --> 5607.14] You're all invited to head into the foyer. -[5607.14 --> 5609.14] I believe there's going to be coffee. -[5609.14 --> 5611.14] We'll have some fellowship together there for sure. -[5611.14 --> 5616.14] Youth, make sure as Curtis mentioned at the beginning to touch base with your leaders. -[5616.14 --> 5621.14] If your parents are here to take you home or if you're heading home on a bus, grab some lunches. -[5621.14 --> 5623.14] You can do your thing that way as well. -[5623.14 --> 5628.14] Before I turn the mic over, I did want to thank two more people. -[5628.14 --> 5630.14] Well, really five more people. -[5630.14 --> 5636.14] Pastor Dave, thank you so much for coming here this weekend and leading us in God's word. -[5640.14 --> 5648.14] Just an incredible job leading us in who Jesus is and how he relates to us and what his calling is on our life. -[5648.14 --> 5649.14] So I thank you so much. -[5649.14 --> 5652.14] And I thank you to Luke and the Arctic and the band as well. -[5652.14 --> 5657.14] They've come back three years in a row to lead us in worship this conference once again. -[5657.14 --> 5661.14] And so let's give them a round of applause as thanks as well. -[5667.14 --> 5669.14] Alright, I'd like to invite Pastor Dave forward right now. -[5669.14 --> 5671.14] He's going to lead us in God's blessing. -[5671.14 --> 5676.14] Alright, as this has been tradition throughout reactivate, I want to ask the very obvious question. -[5676.14 --> 5678.14] Do you want to receive God's blessing? -[5678.14 --> 5679.14] Yes! -[5679.14 --> 5680.14] Amen! -[5680.14 --> 5681.14] Let's hold our hands out. -[5681.14 --> 5685.14] I'm going to read words of sending from the end of Matthew's Gospel and then I will give us God's blessing. -[5685.14 --> 5688.14] The disciples are with Jesus. -[5688.14 --> 5690.14] This is Matthew's account of Jesus. -[5690.14 --> 5694.14] Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. -[5694.14 --> 5697.14] When they saw him, they worshipped him, but some doubted. -[5697.14 --> 5699.14] And then Jesus came to them and said, -[5699.14 --> 5705.14] All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. -[5705.14 --> 5709.14] Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, -[5709.14 --> 5713.14] baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, -[5713.14 --> 5718.14] and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. -[5718.14 --> 5723.14] And surely I am with you always to the very end of the age. -[5723.14 --> 5725.14] So go in the love of the Father. -[5725.14 --> 5729.14] Go in the grace of Jesus Christ that has come to you through the cross. -[5729.14 --> 5733.14] And go in the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit. -[5733.14 --> 5735.14] And together we say, Amen. -[5735.14 --> 5747.14] Okay, we're going to do one more song. -[5747.14 --> 5751.14] There's something really special about this last song actually. -[5751.14 --> 5755.14] Back in the 90s. -[5755.14 --> 5759.14] Back in the 90s. -[5759.14 --> 5761.14] There was a church. -[5761.14 --> 5764.14] I believe it's still here, but I don't know. -[5764.14 --> 5769.14] It's actually just probably about five minutes that way. -[5769.14 --> 5772.14] Not even, maybe three minutes that way. -[5772.14 --> 5779.14] And this church had amazing songs come out of it. -[5779.14 --> 5786.14] And it was just kind of this wild thing that this tiny little church in Langley -[5786.14 --> 5791.14] had these songs that literally were sung in churches all over the world. -[5791.14 --> 5793.14] It was crazy. -[5793.14 --> 5796.14] And these are, this is one of the songs from that time. -[5796.14 --> 5801.14] And I'm, I was, I was kind of bummed because I was going to bring out the guy who wrote it. -[5801.14 --> 5804.14] He's a friend, but he's actually leading worship at my church. -[5804.14 --> 5806.14] So I wasn't able to bring him out. -[5806.14 --> 5811.14] But, um, he, he's, he's a really special guy. -[5811.14 --> 5820.14] And I just thought it would be kind of fun to sing a song that is actually from the soil that was here. -[5820.14 --> 5824.14] You know, a little farther away, but from the same ground. -[5824.14 --> 5827.14] So if you know it, we would love for you to sing it. -[5827.14 --> 5831.14] If you don't know it, this is a, this is a little piece of history for you. -[5831.14 --> 5856.14] I'm going to sing it for you. -[5856.14 --> 5857.14] I'm going to sing it for you. -[5857.14 --> 5858.14] I'm going to sing it for you. -[5858.14 --> 5859.14] I'm going to sing it for you. -[5859.14 --> 5864.14] I'm going to sing it for you. -[5864.14 --> 5869.14] I'm going to sing it for you. -[5869.14 --> 5872.14] I'm going to sing it for you. -[5872.14 --> 5885.14] The Judith audience DP the evening. -[5885.14 --> 5887.16] tear it up trial are there. -[5887.16 --> 5897.14] In the secret, in the quiet hour away, only for you, because I want to know you more. -[5897.14 --> 5906.50] I want to know you -[5906.50 --> 5913.28] I want to hear your voice -[5913.28 --> 5918.26] I want to know you -[5918.26 --> 5929.48] And I want to touch you -[5929.48 --> 5936.28] I want to see your face -[5936.28 --> 5941.34] I want to know you -[5941.34 --> 5971.32] I want to know you -[5971.34 --> 5978.34] In reaching for the highest goal -[5978.34 --> 5993.34] I receive the prize -[5993.34 --> 5995.34] Pressing onward -[5995.34 --> 6000.34] Pressing every hindrance aside -[6000.34 --> 6004.34] Out of my way -[6004.34 --> 6009.34] I want to know you -[6009.34 --> 6011.34] I want to know you -[6011.34 --> 6020.34] I want to know you -[6020.34 --> 6027.34] I want to hear your voice -[6027.34 --> 6033.34] I want to know you more -[6033.34 --> 6037.34] More, more -[6037.34 --> 6044.34] I want to touch you -[6044.34 --> 6050.34] I want to see your face -[6050.34 --> 6057.34] I want to know you -[6057.34 --> 6062.34] I want to know you -[6062.34 --> 6067.34] I want to know you -[6067.34 --> 6072.34] I want to hear your voice -[6072.34 --> 6077.34] I want to know you -[6077.34 --> 6084.34] I want to know you -[6084.34 --> 6087.34] I want to know you -[6087.34 --> 6091.34] I want to touch you -[6091.34 --> 6096.84] I want to see your desi -[6096.84 --> 6105.96] I want to know you more -[6105.96 --> 6108.82] I want to know you more -[6108.82 --> 6114.56] I want to know you more -[6114.56 --> 6120.04] I want to know you more -[6120.04 --> 6124.40] I want to love you. -[6136.68 --> 6140.68] So Lord, may he bless you and keep you. -[6142.32 --> 6147.60] May he shine his face upon you and grant you peace. -[6150.04 --> 6154.34] May you get to know him more. -[6155.38 --> 6156.82] May you get to experience him. -[6156.82 --> 6163.30] And every day, may he make himself known to you in most amazing ways. -[6177.18 --> 6177.90] Amen. -[6177.90 --> 6180.90] That concludes Reactivate. -[6184.90 --> 6189.14] Have a great school year. -[6189.14 --> 6215.20] Running -[6215.20 --> 6219.28] Have you come to the end of yourself? -[6220.58 --> 6224.40] Do you thirst for a drink from the well? -[6225.24 --> 6227.32] Jesus is calling. -[6229.82 --> 6233.64] Oh, come to the altar. diff --git a/Thanksgiving Worship October 11, 2021_summary.txt b/Thanksgiving Worship October 11, 2021_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 87a837f2a966fc3d293b3bed30942e3e6c5e0007..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Thanksgiving Worship October 11, 2021_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,25 +0,0 @@ -• Worship as the mission of the Christian and church -• Thanksgiving to God as worship -• Christian evangelism as preaching the gospel -• The importance of sharing knowledge of God with others -• The depth of meaning in the word "know" in Hebrew, implying a deeper understanding beyond facts -• The knowing relationship with God is fundamental to understanding Him -• The need for people who already know God to tell others about Him, as stated in Romans 10 -• The promise that when we go out to preach the good news, His people will hear and respond -• Thanksgiving as Christian mission involves proclaiming this good news and God's mercy and justice -• The connection between the temple and the kingdom of God, with Jesus fulfilling the role of the temple -• Christians are temples of God through the Holy Spirit, making them agents of God's kingdom in the world -• Living out God's mission involves seeking justice and offering mercy to others -• Charity as our mission involves living out love for others, not just giving or financial assistance -• Jonathan Edwards' sermons on 1 Corinthians 13 and charity -• Understanding of "hesed" or God's loyal, unconditional love in Hebrew -• Connection between God's covenant with his people and hesed -• Christian mission as defined by charity and love -• Living out God's love in worship, evangelism, seeking justice, and mercy -• Thanksgiving as a demonstration of love and gratitude to God -• Expressions of gratitude and humility -• Reflection on the cross and Jesus' sacrifice -• Blessing and protection from God -• Invitation to go in peace, love, and serve the Lord -• Celebration and praise for the coming of the risen King and the wedding feast -• Repetition of song lyrics about the Lamb and the joy of the coming time \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Thanksgiving Worship October 11, 2021_transcript.txt b/Thanksgiving Worship October 11, 2021_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f34b0b45ec88ff8e500e29a0b96d98aceb65a8e2..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Thanksgiving Worship October 11, 2021_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,313 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 29.98] Thank you. -[30.00 --> 59.98] Thank you. -[60.00 --> 89.98] Thank you. -[90.00 --> 119.98] Thank you. -[120.00 --> 149.98] Thank you. -[150.00 --> 179.98] Thank you. -[180.00 --> 209.98] Thank you. -[210.00 --> 239.98] Thank you. -[240.00 --> 269.98] Thank you. -[270.00 --> 299.98] Thank you. -[300.00 --> 329.98] Thank you. -[330.00 --> 359.98] Thank you. -[360.00 --> 389.98] Thank you. -[389.98 --> 419.96] Thank you. -[419.98 --> 449.96] Thank you. -[449.98 --> 479.96] Thank you. -[479.98 --> 509.96] Thank you. -[509.96 --> 539.94] Thank you. -[539.94 --> 569.92] Thank you. -[569.92 --> 599.90] Thank you. -[599.92 --> 629.90] Thank you. -[629.92 --> 659.90] Thank you. -[659.90 --> 689.88] Thank you. -[689.90 --> 719.88] Thank you. -[719.88 --> 749.86] Thank you. -[749.86 --> 779.84] Thank you. -[779.84 --> 809.82] Thank you. -[809.82 --> 839.80] Thank you. -[839.82 --> 869.80] Thank you. -[869.82 --> 899.80] I will sing. -[899.80 --> 929.78] Thank you. -[929.78 --> 959.76] Thank you. -[959.78 --> 989.76] Thank you. -[989.76 --> 1019.74] Thank you. -[1019.76 --> 1049.74] Thank you. -[1049.76 --> 1079.74] Thank you. -[1079.74 --> 1109.72] Thank you. -[1109.74 --> 1139.72] Thank you. -[1139.72 --> 1169.70] Thank you. -[1169.72 --> 1199.70] Thank you. -[1199.72 --> 1229.70] Thank you. -[1229.72 --> 1259.70] Thank you. -[1259.72 --> 1289.70] Thank you. -[1289.72 --> 1319.70] All the glory. -[1319.72 --> 1349.70] Thank you. -[1349.72 --> 1379.70] Thank you. -[1379.70 --> 1409.68] Thank you. -[1409.70 --> 1439.68] Thank you. -[1439.68 --> 1469.66] Thank you. -[1469.66 --> 1499.64] Thank you. -[1499.66 --> 1529.64] Thank you. -[1529.66 --> 1559.64] Thank you. -[1559.66 --> 1589.64] Thank you. -[1589.64 --> 1619.62] Thank you. -[1619.64 --> 1649.62] Thank you. -[1649.64 --> 1679.62] Thank you. -[1679.62 --> 1709.60] Thank you. -[1709.60 --> 1739.60] Thank you. -[1739.60 --> 1769.58] Thank you. -[1769.60 --> 1799.60] Thank you. -[1799.60 --> 1829.60] Thank you. -[1829.60 --> 1859.58] Thank you. -[1859.58 --> 1889.58] Thank you. -[1889.58 --> 1919.56] Thank you. -[1919.58 --> 1949.56] Thank you. -[1949.58 --> 1979.56] Thank you. -[1979.58 --> 2009.56] Thank you. -[2009.58 --> 2039.56] We're going to read that. -[2039.58 --> 2069.56] Don't look over there. -[2069.56 --> 2099.54] Thank you. -[2099.56 --> 2129.54] A day to slow down. -[2129.54 --> 2159.54] And to give you. -[2159.54 --> 2189.52] And answer one. -[2189.54 --> 2219.54] Thank you. -[2219.54 --> 2249.52] Thank you. -[2249.54 --> 2279.52] So with that. -[2279.52 --> 2309.52] Thank you. -[2309.52 --> 2339.50] Now, thanks, you know, -[2339.50 --> 2369.48] when you have something, -[2369.48 --> 2399.48] and we'll see you. -[2399.48 --> 2429.46] giving glory. -[2429.46 --> 2459.44] And so, you know, it's our, you know, -[2459.46 --> 2489.44] we'll see you. -[2489.44 --> 2497.22] gallows or to the stake with their head held high. Or how Christians from parts of the world where -[2497.22 --> 2504.10] persecution is every day, and even if they happen to escape those parts of the world and get out, -[2504.38 --> 2511.54] they want to go back because they consider it a pure joy to suffer for the sake of the gospel -[2511.54 --> 2519.30] and to share in Christ's afflictions. It's because they get this. They understand Nehemiah's -[2519.30 --> 2526.74] words when he told the people, this day is holy to the Lord. Do not grieve for the joy of the Lord is -[2526.74 --> 2534.60] our strength. Worship is the mission of the Christian and of the church, and worship is -[2534.60 --> 2545.62] fundamentally thanksgiving to God, which then takes us to the second part. Giving thanks to God, -[2545.62 --> 2552.00] Christian evangelism as our mission. Now, evangelism is the word that we use in the church -[2552.00 --> 2559.18] that means preach the gospel, preach the good news. The Christian mission is to preach the gospel so -[2559.18 --> 2567.28] that people will come to know God. Verse 3, know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are -[2567.28 --> 2579.74] his. We are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Know that the Lord is God. But how will they know -[2579.74 --> 2588.82] unless someone tells them? Now, in the Hebrew language, the language that this psalm was first written in, -[2588.82 --> 2600.80] know isn't just a suggestion. It's a command, right? Know that the Lord is God. But also, the word for -[2600.80 --> 2609.04] know in Hebrew isn't just about knowledge, right? It isn't just about the fact that the Lord is God. I -[2609.04 --> 2616.80] mean, it is that, and it's true, but it's also more, right? Know in the Bible means something deeper than -[2616.80 --> 2624.72] information. And so, you might come across a line that says something like, Abraham knew Sarah, -[2624.92 --> 2630.52] and she was with child. Jacob knew Rachel, and she gave birth to a son. -[2632.40 --> 2635.54] Now, that's more than knowing facts about someone. -[2637.74 --> 2641.42] If you don't know how that's more than knowing facts about someone, talk to your parents. -[2641.42 --> 2650.50] Right? It's obviously more than a simple knowing, but it's the same word, right? The knowing that we -[2650.50 --> 2658.16] are talking about here is fundamentally a knowing of relationship, of intimacy, of union, and fellowship, -[2658.56 --> 2667.44] and covenanting, promising together. That's how God wants you to know Him, in relationship to Him. -[2667.44 --> 2675.88] And for that to happen, the people who already know Him have to tell about Him. And that's ultimately -[2675.88 --> 2681.34] what Romans 10 is about, when Paul there writes, and how can they believe in the one of whom they -[2681.34 --> 2686.38] have not heard, and how can they hear without someone preaching to them, and how can anyone preach -[2686.38 --> 2696.64] unless they are sent? But you see, there's not only a command here. There is a promise, right? -[2696.64 --> 2705.00] Know that the Lord is God. That's the command. It is He who made us, and we are His. We are His people, -[2705.16 --> 2715.00] the sheep of His pasture. That's the promise. In John 10, Jesus tells us that He is the Good Shepherd, -[2715.22 --> 2723.00] and that He knows His sheep, and His sheep know His voice. When you go out to preach the good news, -[2723.00 --> 2729.74] the sheep of the Good Shepherd will hear His voice in you, from you, and through you, and will respond. -[2730.52 --> 2736.44] That's a promise you can count on. Thanksgiving as Christian mission means that we must go out -[2736.44 --> 2746.56] and proclaim this good news. And His people will know. His people will hear. And His people will come. -[2746.56 --> 2754.70] And so then the third part of Christian mission as Thanksgiving. Give thanks to the Lord, -[2755.28 --> 2760.10] mercy, and justice as our mission. Verse 4 says, -[2760.54 --> 2768.16] enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him and praise His name. -[2768.16 --> 2773.80] Now, this is an image of the temple. Now, this is an image of the temple. And for the Jewish people, -[2774.30 --> 2783.38] the temple was the seat of religious and cultural and, for a significant period of time, judicial life. -[2784.64 --> 2790.98] Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise conjures up images of -[2790.98 --> 2801.42] the ruling seat of God. The temple is the place of God's residing and His decreeing and His judgments -[2801.42 --> 2809.70] echo out from there to the corners of the earth. It is a place of justice and rule and kingship. And so, -[2810.50 --> 2815.96] as I read this psalm, I can't help but extrapolate out from that image a connection -[2815.96 --> 2823.90] to the kingdom of God as it comes in Jesus. Jesus, who said, behold, the kingdom of God is at hand. -[2824.22 --> 2830.54] Jesus, who said, destroy this temple and in three days I will rebuild it. And when John is recording -[2830.54 --> 2835.14] that, he has a little commentary on the end. He says, after the resurrection, the disciples figured -[2835.14 --> 2843.16] out that He was talking about the temple of His body. You see, the kingdom of God changes with Jesus. -[2843.16 --> 2852.40] Jesus becomes the temple in our midst. Jesus fulfills everything that the temple stood for. -[2853.16 --> 2860.78] And so, from the throne room of God right down to the sacrifices offered, Jesus is the fulfillment. -[2862.54 --> 2867.80] And then here's the thing, right? Because the New Testament keeps going with this image. The New -[2867.80 --> 2872.96] Testament tells us that we, as Christians, because of the Holy Spirit who lives in us by grace, -[2873.16 --> 2882.00] through faith, that we have received Jesus, we are now temples of God. You are a temple. And that means, -[2882.92 --> 2891.62] right, follow that line through, that you are the place where God and His reign in the world is revealed -[2891.62 --> 2900.72] from, is exercised from. You, your hearts, are the throne room of God, right? It's through the church -[2900.72 --> 2909.80] that God reveals His kingdom ethic. And so, the church becomes the agents of God's kingdom in the world, -[2909.80 --> 2916.50] right? By subverting and overcoming injustice and bringing justice, by lifting up the poor and -[2916.50 --> 2924.92] the marginalized, right? Not just of the church, but for the whole world, right? If God's kingdom will one -[2924.92 --> 2932.28] day be revealed and fulfilled in the entire world, we, the church, live as if that day is today. -[2933.84 --> 2939.88] And so now, every square inch of our lives and work and school and play and families and friends -[2939.88 --> 2946.52] and hobbies belong to Him and are used for His purposes and the glory of His name. -[2946.52 --> 2957.50] But I also can't help but think of the temple and seeing it as the place of God's mercy, right? Because -[2957.50 --> 2963.18] here, sacrifices are made for the forgiveness of sins. Here, mercy is offered to the widow and to -[2963.18 --> 2969.66] the poor and to the orphan. And so, the church isn't just about seeking justice, right, an equal -[2969.66 --> 2976.04] opportunity for everyone. The church is about providing mercy. It's about giving people what -[2976.04 --> 2982.60] they don't strictly deserve or not giving them what they do deserve, right? We don't repay evil for evil. -[2982.90 --> 2991.04] Instead, we turn the other cheek. We walk the extra mile. We give our cloak and our coat. Our mercy is -[2991.04 --> 3001.74] sacrificial because God's mercy required a sacrifice. To live God's mission, we seek justice and offer -[3001.74 --> 3013.70] mercy. That is our thanksgiving. And finally, the fourth aspect of Christian mission as thanksgiving or -[3013.70 --> 3022.90] thanksgiving mission, give thanks to the Lord charity as our mission. This is verse 5. For the Lord is good -[3022.90 --> 3031.76] and His love endures forever. His faithfulness continues through all generations. Now, first, a word about -[3031.76 --> 3038.52] charity. Because some of you hear the word charity and then you immediately go back to the word mercy. -[3038.52 --> 3044.50] charity. I'm not using the word charity in the way that you might be thinking. Not in the way that we -[3044.50 --> 3049.58] often use it today where it talks about giving, right? A charity event is one that's offered to raise -[3049.58 --> 3055.54] money for some kind. I just played in a charity golf tournament a little while ago. Sometimes you'll hear -[3055.54 --> 3060.80] people say something like, I don't need your charity, right, when you're trying to offer them help of -[3060.80 --> 3066.88] some sort. When I'm using the word charity here, I'm using it in the more classical sense of the word, -[3066.88 --> 3075.28] where it means love. Jonathan Edwards was an 18th century Christian pastor and theologian. He's one -[3075.28 --> 3081.56] of my favorite historical pastors, preachers. He has a series of sermons on 1 Corinthians 13. -[3082.72 --> 3087.02] Now, if you don't immediately understand that, 1 Corinthians 13 is that text that you hear at -[3087.02 --> 3093.42] weddings, right? Even Hollywood movies depicting weddings will quote it, love is patient, love is kind, -[3093.42 --> 3101.00] it does not envy, it does not boast. Jonathan Edwards has a series of sermons on 1 Corinthians 13 called -[3101.00 --> 3109.36] charity and its fruits. That's what I mean when I say the word charity, right? A 1 Corinthians 13 -[3109.36 --> 3116.94] kind of love. So verse 5 says, the Lord is good and his love endures forever. -[3116.94 --> 3125.90] Now, in Hebrew, that word love is one that you might be familiar with. It's hesed. Now, it's sometimes -[3125.90 --> 3133.14] translated loyal love or unconditional love. It's God's love for his people, closely connected to -[3133.14 --> 3140.30] the idea of God's covenant to them. Because God has made a promise to them to be their God and they to be -[3140.30 --> 3146.62] his people. He loves them and he is loyal to that promise, right? In no small part because God is -[3146.62 --> 3153.58] loyal to himself, he is true to his character and his word. And so, when God says that he will love you, -[3154.00 --> 3160.64] he will love you because he's promised to love you. That's hesed, that's charity. The love that he has for -[3160.64 --> 3168.78] his people ultimately is not contingent upon our deserving it or my goodness or my ability to earn it or yours. -[3168.78 --> 3176.70] God loves you because he loves you because he promised to love you. And here's the thing, -[3177.24 --> 3184.64] as Christians who give thanks to God for that hesed, that loyal covenant love, that charity, -[3184.96 --> 3192.62] we too are called to live that same love and share that same charity. Christian mission is defined -[3192.62 --> 3200.68] by charity. It's because of love that we go out into the world. It's because of love that we preach -[3200.68 --> 3206.22] the gospel. It's because of love that we sing his praises. It's because of love that we seek justice and -[3206.22 --> 3212.92] love mercy, right? Love covers over and courses through all the aspects of thanksgiving as Christian -[3212.92 --> 3218.62] mission. We worship in love. We evangelize in love. We seek justice and offer mercy in love. We love because -[3218.62 --> 3228.94] we are loved. Jesus says, a new commandment I give to you that you love one another. Just as I have loved -[3228.94 --> 3238.56] you, you also are to love one another. Just as I have loved you, Jesus says, you are to love one another. -[3238.66 --> 3246.14] The love of God for his people enduring forever is the type of love that you and I are to model -[3246.14 --> 3260.30] and practice in the world. God is love, says 1 John 4. Whoever lives in love lives in God and God in them. -[3261.58 --> 3269.00] Right? You just cannot separate God's love for you from the type of love that you are called to show. -[3269.72 --> 3274.50] Jesus makes this point when he summarizes the teaching of all the law and the prophets and he's relating -[3274.50 --> 3279.70] God to that love of neighbor. He says, love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul -[3279.70 --> 3284.58] and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment and the second is like it. -[3284.72 --> 3291.34] Love your neighbor as yourself. And so if you love God and say you love God, you must also love your -[3291.34 --> 3300.30] neighbor. Charity, love is the mission of the Christian. That's how we give thanks to God. -[3300.30 --> 3309.74] And so this Thanksgiving Monday, see just how big thanksgiving for the Christian really is. -[3310.66 --> 3317.42] Thanksgiving to God is the mission of the church. A Christian who is thankful to God will show it in -[3317.42 --> 3322.74] worship. A Christian who is thankful to God will share it in evangelism. A Christian who is thankful to -[3322.74 --> 3328.66] God will share it and will live it in pursuit of justice and mercy. And a Christian who is thankful -[3328.66 --> 3337.32] to God will share it in loyal love, chesed love, in charity for God and for the world. -[3340.14 --> 3348.86] That's what Thanksgiving means to us. And it's so much better than bacon fried Brussels spouts -[3348.86 --> 3358.86] and so much better especially than pumpkin spice lattes. And I think to that we can all say -[3358.86 --> 3362.56] amen. Good job. Let's pray together. -[3365.24 --> 3369.00] Lord our God, we give you thanks. -[3369.00 --> 3376.70] We give you thanks for the way that you have revealed yourself to us and we give you thanks -[3376.70 --> 3380.44] for the way that you now send us out to reveal you to the world. -[3382.92 --> 3391.22] And so Lord God, may our worship be thanksgiving. May our evangelism, our proclaiming the goodness of God, -[3391.22 --> 3399.06] God be thanksgiving. May our seeking justice and loving mercy be thanksgiving. -[3401.38 --> 3408.56] And may our charity, our love for you and love for one another be our thanksgiving. -[3410.22 --> 3416.38] Whatever it is that we do today, may we do it for the glory of your name. -[3416.38 --> 3424.94] May we know your love. In Christ Jesus we pray. Amen. -[3446.38 --> 3465.38] Jesus Christ, I think upon your sacrifice, you became worthy, poured out to death. -[3465.38 --> 3467.38] Amen. -[3467.38 --> 3476.74] Many times I've wondered at your gift of life, and I'm in that place once again. -[3479.38 --> 3483.38] I'm in that place once again. -[3486.08 --> 3492.38] Once again I look upon the cross where you died. -[3492.38 --> 3498.38] I'm humbled by your mercy and I'm broken inside. -[3499.38 --> 3502.56] Once again I thank you. -[3503.38 --> 3507.38] Once again I pour out my love. -[3513.38 --> 3519.76] Now you are exalted to the highest grace. -[3519.76 --> 3522.70] King of the heavens, King of the heavens, -[3522.70 --> 3525.94] King of the heavens, where one day I'll bow. -[3526.76 --> 3533.04] But for now I marvel at this saving grace. -[3533.44 --> 3536.76] I'm full of praise once again. -[3538.76 --> 3543.76] I'm full of praise once again. -[3543.76 --> 3550.76] Once again I look upon the cross where you died. -[3550.76 --> 3551.76] Once again I look upon the cross where you died. -[3551.76 --> 3556.76] I'm humbled by your mercy and I'm broken inside. -[3556.76 --> 3558.76] Once again I thank you. -[3558.76 --> 3562.76] Once again I pour out my love. -[3562.76 --> 3569.76] Once again I pour out my love. -[3569.76 --> 3575.76] Thank you for the cross. -[3575.76 --> 3579.76] Thank you for the cross. -[3579.76 --> 3584.76] Thank you for the cross, my friend. -[3584.76 --> 3585.76] Thank you for the cross. -[3585.76 --> 3586.76] Thank you for the cross. -[3586.76 --> 3591.76] Thank you for the cross, my friend. -[3591.76 --> 3596.76] Thank you for the cross, my friend. -[3596.76 --> 3601.76] Once again I look upon the cross where you died. -[3601.76 --> 3613.76] I'm humbled by your mercy and I'm broken inside. -[3613.76 --> 3616.76] Once again I thank you. -[3616.76 --> 3620.76] Once again I pour out my love. -[3620.76 --> 3644.76] As you go now I invite you to go with the blessing of our God that we might together live lives of thanksgiving mission for him. -[3645.76 --> 3648.76] Receive the blessing of our God. -[3648.76 --> 3651.76] May God go before you to lead you. -[3651.76 --> 3654.76] May God go behind you to protect you. -[3654.76 --> 3658.76] May God go beneath you to support you. -[3658.76 --> 3661.76] May God go beside you to befriend you. -[3661.76 --> 3663.76] Do not be afraid. -[3663.76 --> 3666.76] Let the blessing of God come upon you today. -[3666.76 --> 3667.76] Do not be afraid. -[3667.76 --> 3672.76] But go in peace to love and serve the Lord. -[3672.76 --> 3674.76] Amen. -[3678.76 --> 3679.76] May God go away. -[3679.76 --> 3680.76] Don't light our God. -[3680.76 --> 3686.76] May God go out and give youhovah's gemeinsamarre and shameful love to love to love to -[3686.76 --> 3687.76] yourself. -[3687.76 --> 3691.76] Sing us all our celebration. -[3691.76 --> 3697.24] Sing a song of celebration -[3697.24 --> 3700.66] Lift up a shout of praise -[3700.66 --> 3704.32] For the Pride Room will come to you -[3704.32 --> 3708.60] A glorious one -[3708.60 --> 3716.20] And all will work on His face -[3716.20 --> 3725.24] We'll go to a much better place -[3725.24 --> 3731.06] Dance with all your light -[3731.06 --> 3734.10] Lift up your hands and clap -[3734.10 --> 3738.20] For joy the time's drawing deep -[3738.20 --> 3742.10] When He will appear -[3742.10 --> 3751.14] And all will stand by His side -[3751.14 --> 3760.10] A strong, with a sparkless pride -[3760.10 --> 3766.24] We will dance on the streets that are cold -[3766.24 --> 3770.56] A glorious pride and a great Son of Man -[3770.56 --> 3774.98] From every tongue and tribe and nation -[3774.98 --> 3781.28] We'll talk in the song of the Lamb -[3781.28 --> 3788.44] Sing aloud for the time of rejoicing is -[3788.44 --> 3792.44] Sing aloud for the time of rejoicing is -[3792.44 --> 3800.44] The risen King our groom is soon to appear -[3800.44 --> 3807.48] The wedding feast to come is down here at home -[3807.48 --> 3813.48] Lift up your voice, profane the coming -[3813.48 --> 3818.48] Lift up your voice, profane the coming -[3818.48 --> 3839.02] We will dance on the streets that are cold -[3839.02 --> 3843.26] A glorious pride and a great Son of Man -[3843.26 --> 3847.58] From every tongue and tribe and nation -[3847.58 --> 3852.30] We'll talk in the song of the Lamb -[3852.30 --> 3856.08] We will dance on the streets that are cold -[3856.08 --> 3860.30] A glorious pride and a great Son of Man -[3860.30 --> 3864.70] From every tongue and tribe and nation -[3864.70 --> 3870.26] We'll talk in the song of the Lamb -[3870.26 --> 3900.24] We'll talk in the song of the Lamb -[3900.26 --> 3930.24] We'll talk in the song of the Lamb -[3930.26 --> 3931.26] How does Jinlchen can inspire them? -[3931.26 --> 3932.26] Big Gospel as the King -[3932.26 --> 3932.68] join our passageummer -[3932.68 --> 3933.82] The manifestations of the Oldbey -[3933.82 --> 3937.26] Bill Кон inclusion are월 -[3937.26 --> 3938.18] Sign julian Michael Verona -[3938.18 --> 3941.84] You hear this livre from his嗟 Haus -[3941.84 --> 3943.72] That szer chicken McGregor -[3943.72 --> 3944.84] For gold 코 Keith -[3944.84 --> 3945.50] Amin -[3945.50 --> 3946.26] Alha -[3946.26 --> 3947.24] In the song of man -[3947.24 --> 3948.50] 1956 -[3948.50 --> 3948.96] We'll talk in the song of the band -[3948.96 --> 3950.36] A bên -[3950.36 --> 3951.44] AARYA -[3951.44 --> 3952.24] fabrication -[3952.24 --> 3952.96] dynamic -[3952.96 --> 3953.68] And -[3953.68 --> 3954.32] A -[3954.32 --> 3954.70] prescription -[3954.70 --> 3955.70] spreads -[3955.70 --> 3956.48] And -[3956.48 --> 3958.06] A -[3958.06 --> 3959.20] convection -[3960.26 --> 3961.26] Amen. -[3990.26 --> 3991.26] Amen. -[4020.26 --> 4021.26] Amen. -[4050.26 --> 4051.26] Amen. -[4080.26 --> 4081.26] Amen. diff --git a/Thanksgiving Day - October 10, 2022_summary.txt b/Thanksgiving Day - October 10, 2022_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0662d569708293cdebed911154ab738fb4515d15..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Thanksgiving Day - October 10, 2022_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,30 +0,0 @@ -• Power of the name of Jesus -• Breaking every chain -• Calling out against spirits (homosexuality, rejection, depression) -• Declaring chains broken and releasing from poverty and kingdom -• Worship and thanksgiving service -• Passing the peace of Christ -• Singing -• Caution -• Children -• Enjoying something as "He is" -• A love -• Definition of righteousness -• Right action towards God's glory -• Sowing righteousness for oneself to reap the fruit of love -• Breaking up unplowed ground to seek the Lord and receive his righteousness -• The harvest of righteousness as the fruit of unfailing love -• Christian thanksgiving as an expression of self-giving love for others -• Giving blessings away in God's name -• Obedience that accompanies confession leading people to praise God -• Praise spilling out into daily life, workplaces, and neighborhoods -• Gratitude despite earthly struggles and hardships -• The gift of Jesus' righteousness far outweighing earthly treasures and suffering -• Christian thanksgiving as an expression of love for others through the gospel -• Prayer for increased harvest of righteousness and love -• Thanksgiving prayer for love, faithfulness, and generosity -• Expression of dependence on God despite abundance or lack -• Boldness in life's endeavors with God's presence -• Proclamation of thanks for the indescribable gift -• Repeated expressions of "Amen" -• Prayer for spiritual protection and blessings \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Thanksgiving Day - October 10, 2022_transcript.txt b/Thanksgiving Day - October 10, 2022_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 4b8c0516e0bc25179600bedf70aaec5d080e31cc..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Thanksgiving Day - October 10, 2022_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,374 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 5.90] There is power in the name of Jesus. -[6.38 --> 14.62] There is power in the name of Jesus. -[15.38 --> 17.94] Just to break every chain. -[18.38 --> 19.94] Yes, it will. -[20.48 --> 21.76] Yes, it will. -[22.18 --> 27.12] Hey, just to break every chain. -[27.12 --> 29.48] Break every chain. -[29.48 --> 31.56] Break every chain. -[31.58 --> 33.44] Come on, everybody say there is an army. -[33.94 --> 39.72] There is an army rising up. -[40.74 --> 42.10] Oh, yeah. -[42.48 --> 48.24] There is an army rising up. -[48.54 --> 50.44] Yes, there is an army. -[50.44 --> 56.72] There is an army rising up. -[57.08 --> 58.82] Break every chain. -[58.82 --> 61.18] Break every chain. -[61.18 --> 62.72] Break every chain. -[66.72 --> 66.76] Break every chain. -[66.76 --> 68.92] Break every chain. -[69.10 --> 71.80] Break every chain. -[71.80 --> 74.20] Break every chain. -[74.28 --> 78.32] Now right here in this moment, I'm usually to begin to speak to that thing. -[78.32 --> 80.96] Come on, call it by its name. -[81.32 --> 84.42] Come against the spirit of homosexuality. -[84.62 --> 87.82] Come against the spirit of rejection and depression. -[88.32 --> 90.26] Somebody release it into the atmosphere. -[90.74 --> 93.26] And we declare that the chains be broken. -[93.58 --> 95.16] That the chains be broken. -[95.54 --> 99.24] The power of life and death lies in your tongue. -[99.56 --> 101.56] Somebody raise up your voices. -[101.56 --> 106.24] And you declare that the chains are broken. -[106.24 --> 109.04] The chains are broken. -[109.42 --> 111.50] The chains are broken. -[111.92 --> 114.44] The chains are broken. -[114.66 --> 117.10] The ends is broken. -[117.46 --> 117.74] The chains are broken. -[117.96 --> 123.68] I hear the chains fall. -[128.10 --> 132.44] I hear the chains fall. -[132.44 --> 139.44] I hear the chains falling -[139.44 --> 144.44] I hear the chains falling -[144.44 --> 149.44] I hear the chains falling -[149.44 --> 153.44] In the name of Jesus -[153.44 --> 157.44] I hear the chains falling -[157.44 --> 161.44] He's waking up and changing -[161.44 --> 167.44] I hear the chains falling -[167.44 --> 170.44] I hear it, I hear it in the spirit -[170.44 --> 176.44] I hear the chains falling -[176.44 --> 178.44] Come on, you raise it real now -[178.44 --> 183.44] I hear the chains falling -[183.44 --> 186.44] Now one more time, let's do it together -[186.44 --> 188.44] You speak to it -[188.44 --> 190.44] Come on, speak to it -[190.44 --> 192.44] In the name of Jesus -[192.44 --> 194.44] Call it by his name -[194.44 --> 197.44] We speak to the spirit of cancer -[197.44 --> 200.44] And we declare that the chains are broken -[200.44 --> 202.44] Off of every family -[202.44 --> 205.44] We declare that the chains of poverty -[205.44 --> 207.44] Is broken off of the kingdom -[207.44 --> 210.44] Somebody raise up your voices now -[210.44 --> 211.44] And you declare it -[211.44 --> 213.44] That the chains of poverty -[213.44 --> 216.44] Is broken off of the kingdom -[216.44 --> 218.44] Good morning -[218.44 --> 222.44] Happy Thanksgiving to all of you here -[222.44 --> 225.44] And all of you joining us online -[225.44 --> 228.44] If you're visiting with us, a special welcome to you -[228.44 --> 231.44] My name is Chris, I'm one of the pastors here -[231.44 --> 233.44] It's our privilege to lead you -[233.44 --> 236.44] And join with you in worship together -[236.44 --> 238.44] This morning -[238.44 --> 241.44] As we come into God's presence -[241.44 --> 243.44] We do so as a people called -[243.44 --> 245.44] And as a people welcomed by God himself -[245.44 --> 246.44] And so as you're able -[246.44 --> 247.44] And where you are -[247.44 --> 248.44] I'm going to invite you to stand -[248.44 --> 252.44] And we can be ushered into God's presence -[252.44 --> 254.44] With his greeting to us -[254.44 --> 257.44] On this Thanksgiving Monday -[257.44 --> 259.44] We give thanks in the name of the Lord -[259.44 --> 260.44] Who greets us -[260.44 --> 264.44] Grace, mercy, and peace to you -[264.44 --> 267.44] From God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ -[267.44 --> 269.44] His Son and our Savior -[269.44 --> 272.44] Through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit -[272.44 --> 273.44] Amen -[274.44 --> 277.44] We are here together as a church family -[277.44 --> 279.44] And as friends and family to worship God -[279.44 --> 282.44] So I'm going to invite you to turn to those around you -[282.44 --> 284.44] To greet them and welcome them in worship -[284.44 --> 287.44] With a fist bump, a handshake, or a hug -[287.44 --> 289.44] Passing the peace of Christ -[312.44 --> 327.44] Our call to worship this morning -[327.44 --> 330.44] Comes from Psalm 136 -[332.44 --> 335.44] Give thanks to the Lord for he is good -[335.44 --> 337.44] His love endures forever -[338.44 --> 340.44] There's so much packed into this simple phrase -[340.44 --> 341.44] Hear it again -[341.44 --> 344.44] Give thanks to the Lord for he is good -[344.44 --> 347.44] His love endures forever -[347.44 --> 350.44] As we sing our songs of worship this morning -[350.44 --> 353.44] I hope we can meditate on these words -[353.44 --> 356.44] That we can rest in God's goodness -[356.44 --> 358.44] And enjoy his love for us -[358.44 --> 360.44] A love that endures forever -[361.44 --> 364.44] Give thanks to the Lord for he is good -[364.44 --> 366.44] His love endures forever -[366.44 --> 368.44] My love and I don't know -[368.44 --> 369.44] My love and I would pray -[369.44 --> 371.44] Praise God -[371.44 --> 372.44] And enjoy it -[372.44 --> 373.44] Helpcyj -[373.44 --> 375.44] Even if we sing it -[375.44 --> 376.44] By there -[377.44 --> 378.44] caution -[378.44 --> 379.44] Of Chips -[379.44 --> 380.44] Do so -[380.44 --> 381.90] Thank you -[382.44 --> 385.44] If ye -[385.44 --> 386.14] Please -[386.44 --> 388.44] Children -[388.44 --> 389.44] And enjoy it -[389.44 --> 393.30] as He is -[393.30 --> 394.46] A love -[394.46 --> 424.44] Thank you. -[424.46 --> 454.44] Thank you. -[454.46 --> 484.44] Thank you. -[484.46 --> 514.44] Thank you. -[514.46 --> 544.44] Thank you. -[544.46 --> 574.44] Thank you. -[574.46 --> 604.44] Thank you. -[604.46 --> 634.44] Thank you. -[634.46 --> 664.44] Thank you. -[664.46 --> 694.44] Thank you. -[694.46 --> 724.44] Thank you. -[724.44 --> 754.42] Thank you. -[754.44 --> 784.42] Thank you. -[784.44 --> 814.42] Thank you. -[814.44 --> 844.42] Thank you. -[844.44 --> 874.42] Thank you. -[874.44 --> 904.42] Thank you. -[904.44 --> 934.42] Thank you. -[934.42 --> 964.40] Thank you. -[964.42 --> 994.40] Thank you. -[994.42 --> 1024.40] Thank you. -[1024.42 --> 1054.40] Thank you. -[1054.42 --> 1084.40] Thank you. -[1084.42 --> 1114.40] Thank you. -[1114.42 --> 1144.40] Thank you. -[1144.42 --> 1174.40] Thank you. -[1174.42 --> 1204.40] Thank you. -[1204.40 --> 1234.38] Thank you. -[1234.40 --> 1264.38] Thank you. -[1264.40 --> 1294.38] Thank you. -[1294.40 --> 1324.38] Thank you. -[1324.40 --> 1354.38] Thank you. -[1354.40 --> 1384.38] Thank you. -[1384.38 --> 1414.36] Thank you. -[1414.38 --> 1444.36] Thank you. -[1444.38 --> 1474.36] Thank you. -[1474.38 --> 1504.36] Thank you. -[1504.38 --> 1534.36] Thank you. -[1534.38 --> 1564.36] Thank you. -[1564.36 --> 1594.34] Thank you. -[1594.36 --> 1624.34] Thank you. -[1624.36 --> 1654.34] Thank you. -[1654.36 --> 1684.34] Thank you. -[1684.36 --> 1714.34] Thank you. -[1714.36 --> 1744.34] Thank you. -[1744.36 --> 1774.34] Thank you. -[1774.36 --> 1804.34] Thank you. -[1804.36 --> 1834.34] Thank you. -[1834.36 --> 1864.36] Thank you. -[1864.36 --> 1894.34] Thank you. -[1894.34 --> 1924.32] Thank you. -[1924.34 --> 1954.32] Thank you. -[1954.34 --> 1984.32] Thank you. -[1984.34 --> 2014.32] Thank you. -[2014.34 --> 2044.32] Thank you. -[2044.34 --> 2074.32] Thank you. -[2074.34 --> 2104.32] Thank you. -[2104.34 --> 2134.34] Thank you. -[2134.34 --> 2164.32] Thank you. -[2164.34 --> 2194.34] Thank you. -[2194.34 --> 2224.32] Thank you. -[2224.32 --> 2254.30] Thank you. -[2254.30 --> 2284.28] Thank you. -[2284.28 --> 2314.26] Thank you. -[2314.26 --> 2344.24] Thank you. -[2344.24 --> 2374.22] Thank you. -[2374.22 --> 2404.20] Thank you. -[2404.20 --> 2434.20] Thank you. -[2434.20 --> 2464.20] Thank you. -[2464.20 --> 2494.20] Thank you. -[2494.20 --> 2524.20] Thank you. -[2524.20 --> 2554.18] Thank you. -[2554.20 --> 2584.20] Thank you. -[2584.20 --> 2614.18] Thank you. -[2614.20 --> 2616.20] Thank you. -[2644.20 --> 2674.18] Thank you. -[2674.20 --> 2704.20] from 2nd, -[2704.20 --> 2734.20] -[2734.20 --> 2764.20] -[2764.20 --> 2794.18] Thank you. -[2794.18 --> 2824.18] Thank you. -[2824.18 --> 2854.16] Thank you. -[2854.18 --> 2884.18] Thank you. -[2884.18 --> 2914.18] Thank you. -[2914.18 --> 2944.18] Thank you. -[2944.18 --> 2974.18] Thank you. -[2974.18 --> 3004.18] Thank you. -[3004.18 --> 3034.18] Thank you. -[3034.18 --> 3064.18] Thank you. -[3064.18 --> 3094.18] Thank you. -[3094.18 --> 3124.18] Thank you. -[3124.18 --> 3154.18] Thank you. -[3154.18 --> 3184.18] Look at you. -[3184.18 --> 3214.18] Thank you. -[3214.18 --> 3244.18] Thank you. -[3244.18 --> 3274.18] Thank you. -[3274.18 --> 3304.18] Thank you. -[3304.18 --> 3305.60] of you. -[3334.18 --> 3342.64] harvest of your righteousness. Now, righteousness is one of those Bible words that we sometimes -[3342.64 --> 3349.06] just say and don't have an idea of what it means. And I like to think of righteousness is right -[3349.06 --> 3356.84] action towards the glory of God. Right? So we do what God has called us and what is obedient to -[3356.84 --> 3365.28] him and we do it for his glory. Now, that's my normal operating and shared definition of -[3365.28 --> 3371.00] righteousness, but I think there's something deeper here than even that. Right? I think actually that -[3371.00 --> 3380.06] Paul, when he is writing this section of scripture, he has in mind Hosea 10 verse 12. Hosea 10 verse 12, -[3380.06 --> 3388.06] a minor prophet in the Old Testament. He says, sow righteousness for yourselves, reap the fruit of -[3388.06 --> 3394.46] unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground, for it is time to seek the Lord until he comes -[3394.46 --> 3402.28] and showers his righteousness on you. The Greek translation of Hosea from the second century -[3402.28 --> 3407.76] BC is the same as what Paul writes here, that showers his righteousness on you in Greek is -[3407.76 --> 3413.56] increases the harvest of your righteousness. And Paul, who wrote 2 Corinthians as a trained -[3413.56 --> 3422.32] Hebrew Pharisee, would have these words memorized both in Hebrew and probably in Greek. And so I think -[3422.32 --> 3430.44] when he's writing this, this frame, this expression is rolling around in his mind and they just ring out -[3430.44 --> 3437.58] in what he says here. And so what is the harvest of your righteousness? Right? It's more than just -[3437.58 --> 3443.52] right action for the glory of God. It's actually taking Hosea, it's the fruit of unfailing love. -[3444.94 --> 3451.32] In fact, John Calvin will take this idea and he calls the harvest of righteousness, the work and office -[3451.32 --> 3459.34] of love. And so what makes a uniquely Christian thanksgiving is God using it to increase, not your stuff, -[3459.34 --> 3469.44] but your love for others, right? Your love for him. Christian generosity is about Christian love. -[3469.58 --> 3475.54] Christian cheerfulness is about Christian love. Christian thanksgiving is about Christian love. -[3476.28 --> 3482.54] Not the self-idolizing love of the world for itself, but the self-giving love of Jesus for the world. -[3482.54 --> 3491.58] And so now we begin to see it, right? Thanksgiving is properly about how you can love the world. -[3492.78 --> 3497.96] That's what makes thanksgiving uniquely Christian. That's our unique expression and what we can offer -[3497.96 --> 3503.86] here, right? God gives you stuff and some of you abundantly, wealth, riches, possessions, -[3503.86 --> 3513.46] so that you can give it away in his name for his glory. Thanksgiving for the Christian looks like -[3513.46 --> 3523.52] giving blessing away. The second thing then that makes thanksgiving uniquely Christian is in verse 13. -[3524.52 --> 3526.92] Verse 13, we read, -[3526.92 --> 3548.72] Christian thanksgiving, Christian generosity, Christian cheerfulness. That's part of what it means when he says -[3548.72 --> 3552.84] the obedience that accompanies your confession. Christian thanksgiving, Christian generosity, -[3552.84 --> 3561.48] Christian cheerfulness will lead people to praise God, right? And that will start here. As we see that -[3561.48 --> 3567.40] happening in our midst and in each other, we will be led to praise God. And then that spills out -[3567.40 --> 3573.60] to your neighborhoods and your workplaces and your third places, whatever they happen to be. People will -[3573.60 --> 3579.90] look at your life and not because of how rich you are or how blessed you are or however many earthly reasons -[3579.90 --> 3585.58] you have to be thankful. People will look at your life and they will see you giving it away. They will -[3585.58 --> 3592.78] see you loving others and they will say, God be praised. And again, not because of the stuff, -[3593.42 --> 3594.78] but because of how you hold yourself. -[3596.94 --> 3603.88] Because even in death, you have no fear. Even in poverty, you have the riches of the kingdom of heaven. -[3603.88 --> 3611.74] Even in sickness, we have God's presence. And when you have Jesus, even if you have nothing else, -[3611.96 --> 3617.68] you can still be generous and thankful and cheerful, right? That's what makes uniquely Christian -[3617.68 --> 3623.34] thanksgiving. When by the world's standards, you have nothing to be thankful for, and yet you are. -[3624.56 --> 3630.00] Right? When by the world's standards, you have nothing to give, and yet you do. When you have nothing -[3630.00 --> 3639.18] to be cheerful about, and yet you can't stop rejoicing at God your Savior. Even as the cost of -[3639.18 --> 3645.36] living feels like it's skyrocketing, and I shouldn't even say feels like there because the CPI over the -[3645.36 --> 3652.56] last year has gone up by 8.4 or some odd percent. Like it's, even if you lose your job or you're -[3652.56 --> 3658.84] underemployed, even if you have cancer or some other terminal disease, Christians can say, -[3658.84 --> 3663.12] thanks be to God for his indescribable gift. -[3665.46 --> 3670.18] Now, that's not saying the cost of living is a gift of God, or the increased cost of living is a -[3670.18 --> 3675.16] gift from God. That's not saying that, you know, the division that exists in the world through which -[3675.16 --> 3679.40] we can still be grateful is a gift from God. That's not saying cancer is a gift from God. -[3679.66 --> 3684.34] Obviously not. What it is saying is that the gift of God far outweighs all of those things, -[3684.34 --> 3689.08] right? The goodness of God and the gift of his grace are of an eternal weight and glory, -[3689.08 --> 3693.04] and they far surpass any earthly treasure and any present suffering. -[3695.16 --> 3701.24] That's what makes our Thanksgiving uniquely Christian. This is the truth of what it means -[3701.24 --> 3707.26] to be Christian this Thanksgiving, that we know Jesus, that we know the gospel, that we know that -[3707.26 --> 3712.22] Jesus lived the life I should have lived, and that he gives me his righteousness, that we know that -[3712.22 --> 3718.12] Jesus died the death that I deserve, and that he takes the wrath of God for my sin on his shoulders. -[3720.26 --> 3728.76] Today, this Thanksgiving day, is uniquely Christian when you cling to the grace of God. -[3729.90 --> 3737.26] Thanksgiving for us is uniquely Christian because God uses it to increase love in us, -[3737.26 --> 3743.44] his love for us, his love for us, our love for him, and our love for others through him. -[3744.80 --> 3752.56] Because of his love, we are generous. Because of his love, we are thankful. Because of his love, -[3752.68 --> 3760.12] we are cheerful. Thanksgiving is uniquely Christian because God uses the thankful, cheerful, generous life -[3760.12 --> 3770.00] to lead others to praise him. And so today, or if it was yesterday, right, whether you sit with family -[3770.00 --> 3779.28] or if you sit by yourselves, may people look at your life and say, God be praised. Today, when you say, -[3779.28 --> 3786.42] happy Thanksgiving, may everyone who hears that know the love of God in your words. -[3786.42 --> 3797.00] And today, and every day forward, may you be generous and cheerful and thankful as God increases the harvest -[3797.00 --> 3808.16] of your righteousness so that others will praise him. That is a uniquely Christian Thanksgiving. Amen. -[3808.88 --> 3809.74] Let's pray together. -[3809.74 --> 3821.10] Holy God, Heavenly Father, increase the harvest of your righteousness among us. -[3822.72 --> 3830.80] Increase our love for you this Thanksgiving. Increase our love for our neighbors and for the world around us -[3830.80 --> 3838.82] this Thanksgiving, that in our lives of love and faithfulness, as we are generous and thankful and cheerful, -[3839.74 --> 3849.90] that we might lead others to praise you. That even when we have nothing by the world's standards, -[3850.86 --> 3860.96] may we have enough because we have you. And even for those of us who have abundance by the world's standards, -[3860.96 --> 3877.26] may that not be enough without you. May we know that we need you. That you alone satisfy the desires of our hearts. -[3877.26 --> 3882.26] May we know that we need you. And that when we find satisfaction in you and from you. -[3886.94 --> 3895.38] May we go with boldness into whatever it is that life has yet to come. -[3895.94 --> 3898.60] Knowing that we go with you. -[3898.60 --> 3908.92] And may our lives proclaim thanks be to God for this indescribable gift. -[3910.28 --> 3910.52] Amen. -[3910.52 --> 3910.66] Amen. -[3910.66 --> 3910.70] Amen. -[3910.70 --> 3910.72] Amen. -[3910.72 --> 3910.78] Amen. -[3910.78 --> 3912.78] Amen. -[3912.78 --> 3914.78] Amen. -[3914.78 --> 3916.78] Amen. -[3916.78 --> 3918.78] Amen. -[3918.78 --> 3920.78] Amen. -[3920.78 --> 3922.78] Amen. -[3922.78 --> 3924.78] Amen. -[3924.78 --> 3926.78] Amen. -[3926.78 --> 3926.84] Amen. -[3926.84 --> 3927.84] Amen. -[3927.84 --> 3928.58] Amen. -[3928.60 --> 3958.58] Amen. -[3958.60 --> 3960.72] Amen. -[3960.72 --> 3985.24] Jesus, Lord, is lost with me, my Savior, Jesus, Lord, is lost with me, my Savior, is my Savior, Jesus, Lord, is the name of me, I'll sing it out of your day, Jesus, Lord. -[3990.72 --> 3992.72] Amen. -[4020.72 --> 4050.70] Thank you. -[4050.72 --> 4080.70] Thank you. -[4080.72 --> 4110.70] Thank you. -[4110.72 --> 4140.70] Thank you. -[4140.72 --> 4170.70] Thank you. -[4170.72 --> 4200.70] Thank you. -[4200.72 --> 4202.72] Thank you. -[4230.72 --> 4242.88] And may your whole spirit, soul, and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, the one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it. -[4242.88 --> 4244.18] Amen. -[4244.18 --> 4244.22] Amen. -[4244.22 --> 4246.22] Amen. -[4246.22 --> 4248.22] Amen. -[4248.22 --> 4250.22] Amen. -[4250.22 --> 4252.22] Amen. -[4252.22 --> 4258.22] Amen. -[4258.22 --> 4260.22] Amen. -[4260.22 --> 4264.22] Amen. -[4264.22 --> 4269.22] Amen. -[4294.22 --> 4306.32] Lord, turn in place toward you and bless you. -[4306.32 --> 4320.32] Lord, bless you and keep you. -[4320.32 --> 4324.32] May this day shine upon you. -[4324.32 --> 4328.32] Be patient in you. -[4328.32 --> 4342.32] Lord, turn in place toward you and bless you. -[4346.32 --> 4350.32] Amen. -[4351.32 --> 4355.32] Amen. -[4355.32 --> 4359.32] Amen. -[4360.32 --> 4361.32] Amen. -[4362.32 --> 4364.32] Amen. -[4365.32 --> 4367.32] Amen. -[4369.32 --> 4371.32] Amen. -[4372.32 --> 4373.32] Amen. -[4373.32 --> 4379.32] Amen. -[4379.32 --> 4380.32] Amen. -[4380.32 --> 4382.32] Amen. -[4383.32 --> 4384.32] Amen. -[4385.32 --> 4387.32] Amen. -[4387.32 --> 4388.32] Amen. -[4388.32 --> 4394.48] Jesus shall see our dwelling heart -[4394.72 --> 4406.40] it's meaningful children -[4406.40 --> 4408.40] Amen. -[4436.40 --> 4438.40] Amen. -[4466.40 --> 4468.40] Amen. -[4496.40 --> 4498.40] Amen. -[4526.40 --> 4530.40] Amen. -[4531.10 --> 4542.40] Amen. -[4542.40 --> 4544.40] Amen. -[4546.40 --> 4552.40] Amen. -[4552.40 --> 4554.40] Amen. -[4554.40 --> 4556.40] Amen. -[4556.40 --> 4559.68] Amen. -[4586.40 --> 4588.40] Amen. -[4616.40 --> 4618.40] Amen. -[4646.40 --> 4648.40] Amen. -[4676.40 --> 4678.40] Amen. -[4706.40 --> 4708.40] Amen. diff --git a/The Spiritual Discipline of Scripture (Sermon)_summary.txt b/The Spiritual Discipline of Scripture (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 1720bea40117eb087f45b09680e9514aab8399ac..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/The Spiritual Discipline of Scripture (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,86 +0,0 @@ -• The speaker's ministry transitioned to helping schools teach online during COVID -• A school in Cairo was helped to improve their technology and is now teaching people throughout the Arabic world -• The speaker notes both positive and negative impacts of the pandemic on lives and churches -• The importance of spiritual discipline, specifically Scripture, in shaping who we are into the person of Christ -• Peter's writing in 2 Peter chapter 1 about getting a vision of Christ and living a godly life through knowledge of Him -• The VIM acronym (Vision, Intent, Means) as a tool for remembering the process of spiritual formation -• Importance of spiritual disciplines in making vision and intent a reality -• Definition of disciplines as training exercises for the Spirit to shape us into image bearers of God -• Examples of various disciplines including solitary and silent time, prayer, worship, service, giving, fasting, and reading Scripture -• The key importance of reading Scripture and seeing its value in order to want to discipline oneself to read it faithfully -• The body is temporary and will be left behind soon -• Importance of remembering events after one's departure -• The second coming of Jesus Christ in power -• Eyewitness account of Jesus' majesty, including the transfiguration on a mountain -• Reliability of prophetic message and importance of paying attention to it -• Prophecy never originated from human will but was spoken by prophets as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit -• Discussion of the book's potential as a bestseller -• Concern that the book may be relegated to the religious section in libraries, limiting its visibility -• Importance of understanding the book's message as a special revelation from God regarding who Jesus Christ is -• Explanation of how writers of the Old Testament were inspired by God through the Holy Spirit -• Introduction of Jesus as the Messiah and Savior, with Peter affirming Jesus' divinity -• Discussion of the reliability of the New Testament writers in passing on their message about Jesus -• The Bible is the focus of God's delight and has been pointed to throughout all of scripture. -• Moses and Elijah were not just philosophers sharing their views, but prophets who received spirit-inspired prophecies. -• We must pay attention to these prophecies and let the spirit that inspired them work within us. -• The Belgic Confession is a confession of faith that speaks into what the scriptures are about and affirms the Bible's authority. -• The importance of reading and accepting the Bible as the word of God. -• The authority of scripture in one's life, requiring submission to its teachings. -• The need to identify with God's love story as told in the Bible. -• The role of the Holy Spirit in carrying individuals along and guiding their lives. -• The significance of scripture in regulating one's faith and establishing a foundation for living. -• Sufficiency of scripture -• Christ as the one true savior -• Importance of believing in scripture for salvation -• Example from John 5 where Jesus debates with Jewish leaders about studying and understanding scripture -• Criticism that people study scripture but do not truly understand or believe its message -• Warning against pride and misunderstanding of scripture -• The Bible is written to teach the way of salvation and life. -• Paul emphasizes in 2 Timothy 3:10-17 that believers will face persecution for living a godly life in Christ Jesus. -• Examples from Paul's own experiences, including being rescued by God from persecution, are given to illustrate this point. -• The Bible teaches that enduring suffering and persecution is necessary for living a life of faith in Christ Jesus. -• Imposters and deception -• Counterculture and conviction -• Scripture as holy and inspired, with purpose of teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness -• The role of the Holy Spirit in convicting the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment (or freedom from eternal judgment) -• Comparison between Paul's attribution to scripture and Jesus' statement about the Holy Spirit's work -• The conviction of sin by the Holy Spirit -• The role of scripture in rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness -• The Heidelberg Catechism's three parts: recognizing sin, redemption, and gratitude -• The importance of reading the Bible for assurance of salvation and confirmation of one's relationship with God -• Courting by distance through letters -• Reading scripture as a love letter from God -• Seeing sin and shortcoming through the word of God -• Rebuke and correction being necessary for growth -• The Holy Spirit convicting people of sin -• The importance of reading scripture to become holy like Christ -• Needing to be students of the word of God to graduate in life. -• Importance of concentrated time in the scriptures -• Bible helps us know we're saved and loved, but also points out our sin -• Bible teaches how to obey God's will and be righteous -• Practical advice and teachings for everyday life -• Learning from others' mistakes and being guided by wisdom -• Reading the Bible leads to spiritual growth and maturity -• Reading the Bible as a novel, rather than studying it -• The Gospel of John as a starting point for beginners -• Nicky Gumbel's approach to reading the Bible -• Lectio Divina: a method of meditating on scripture -• Chewing away at a passage like a dog with a bone -• Reflecting on how scripture speaks into one's life -• Reading the Bible regularly as a personal discipline -• Initial reluctance to read the Bible, but eventually doing so for three years minus one night -• How reading the Bible changed the speaker's life and their perspective on faith -• Importance of individuals making an effort to become more faithful and disciplined in their spiritual practices -• Passion for Christ -• Importance of being self-feeders, not reliant on the church -• Concern about people taking distance from the church and potentially the Lord -• Need for individuals to be able to care for their own soul and not rely on others -• Comparison between mature children who don't need their mothers and churches being compared to mothers in scripture -• The importance of relating deeply and intimately to Christ -• The knowledge of what it means to be saved -• Recognizing oneself as a sinner and following the Savior -• Living, praying, and thanking God for speaking to us -• Praise for God's creation and his powerful word -• Asking for help in submitting to God's living word -• Seeing Jesus Christ for who he is and submitting to him -• Prayer for encouragement and reminder of one's identity in Christ \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/The Spiritual Discipline of Scripture (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/The Spiritual Discipline of Scripture (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 27931279261ad11372d6324f175683ce4763fdb4..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/The Spiritual Discipline of Scripture (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2179 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 5.32] You know, I mentioned I'm semi-retired. -[5.32 --> 12.34] It's been said before, I work part-time for Resource Leadership International, -[12.72 --> 19.38] and resources involved with about a dozen schools in a variety of countries, -[19.52 --> 25.86] but with our partners in the U.S., Australia, New Zealand, and Europe, -[25.86 --> 31.64] we're in about 120 to 30 schools in 70 countries, -[31.64 --> 36.58] and we don't know of one school that didn't shut down. -[37.70 --> 43.72] And so we transitioned our ministry to doing what a lot of churches around the world had to do, -[43.88 --> 47.58] to help schools teach online. -[47.58 --> 54.44] And, for example, there's a school in Cairo, Egypt, -[54.44 --> 62.00] that had been getting invitations from the Arab world to help them, -[62.38 --> 65.20] and they just didn't have the potential to do that. -[65.32 --> 69.40] So we've helped them to improve their technology, -[69.90 --> 74.68] and so now they're beginning to teach people throughout the Arabic world -[74.68 --> 78.86] by first themselves having been forced to teach online, -[79.24 --> 84.30] and now being able to broadcast this into the world around them. -[84.40 --> 90.62] So there are upsides to what I would call a COVID operation, -[91.30 --> 96.10] but there's been many, many downsides as well. -[96.86 --> 102.00] Whereas in Vietnam, in the whole country, -[102.00 --> 103.84] I don't believe there was one death. -[104.50 --> 106.54] A couple weeks ago I heard of in Bolivia -[106.54 --> 110.96] that over a hundred pastors died due to it. -[111.56 --> 113.60] Now I can't verify statistics, -[113.98 --> 117.60] but it's such an unpredictable thing. -[118.66 --> 122.44] It's created such uncertainty in our own lives -[122.44 --> 124.38] as to how do you respond to this. -[124.38 --> 128.52] And so I experienced some of that own, -[129.02 --> 133.56] you might say, confusion in my own soul -[133.56 --> 134.78] as to what to do. -[136.54 --> 138.40] But we're privileged to worship, -[138.86 --> 144.92] and today I would like to turn again to the Scriptures -[144.92 --> 146.96] with a focus this morning -[146.96 --> 151.82] on the spiritual discipline of Scripture. -[154.60 --> 157.00] I'd love to do a little survey and ask, -[157.66 --> 159.90] how much do you actually read the Bible? -[161.58 --> 163.86] Is it as much as you watch the news? -[168.86 --> 170.96] Scripture is a primary means -[170.96 --> 175.64] by which the Spirit uses to shape -[175.64 --> 181.02] who we are into the person of Christ. -[181.28 --> 185.70] We're going to turn in a moment to Peter -[185.70 --> 189.94] and take up where we left last week -[189.94 --> 192.16] on 2 Peter chapter 1. -[193.34 --> 196.74] But there in the verses 12 and following, -[196.74 --> 200.80] he speaks to the importance of Scripture -[200.80 --> 202.22] in our lives. -[203.22 --> 206.12] And before we turn to it, -[207.18 --> 208.34] I'd like to remind you, -[208.36 --> 209.68] I mentioned it last week, -[209.74 --> 211.20] of this little acronym, -[211.98 --> 214.32] acronym VIM. -[215.18 --> 216.36] V-I-M. -[216.60 --> 219.16] It can, I think, be a helpful tool -[219.16 --> 221.62] in remembering the process -[221.62 --> 223.58] of spiritual formation -[223.58 --> 226.16] where V in the VIM stands for vision, -[226.72 --> 228.76] I stands for our own intent, -[229.20 --> 231.12] and M, which we're looking at this morning, -[231.22 --> 232.64] is the means whereby -[232.64 --> 235.50] God uses to shape us. -[235.76 --> 237.60] I think it's also a helpful tool -[237.60 --> 238.38] in understanding -[238.38 --> 240.68] what Peter's talking about, -[240.80 --> 241.56] writing about, -[241.82 --> 243.50] in 2 Peter chapter 1. -[243.98 --> 246.10] Because at the beginning of the chapter, -[246.40 --> 248.26] he speaks about getting really -[248.26 --> 250.00] this vision of Christ. -[250.00 --> 253.12] In verse 3, he said, -[253.98 --> 256.40] His divine power has given us -[256.40 --> 258.28] everything we need -[258.28 --> 259.50] for a godly life. -[259.62 --> 260.06] How? -[261.08 --> 263.76] Through our knowledge of Him, -[264.32 --> 264.76] Jesus, -[265.86 --> 267.16] who called us -[267.16 --> 269.70] by His own glory and goodness. -[269.80 --> 270.36] In other words, -[270.76 --> 271.88] we got a vision, -[272.10 --> 275.36] we saw who this Jesus is, -[275.70 --> 278.22] and by calling us into that, -[278.22 --> 280.82] we've been given this power -[280.82 --> 283.48] to live a new life. -[283.70 --> 284.40] In other words, -[284.88 --> 288.06] once we get the true vision -[288.06 --> 291.24] of who Jesus is, -[292.62 --> 294.30] that God of heaven and earth -[294.30 --> 295.84] come in the flesh -[295.84 --> 298.56] so that we body and soul people -[298.56 --> 300.54] can take on the divine nature, -[301.26 --> 302.16] it's like, -[302.40 --> 302.76] okay, -[303.76 --> 306.02] I see who He is, -[306.02 --> 307.66] I want to share in that. -[308.22 --> 311.24] The second thing we looked at last week -[311.24 --> 312.44] in verses 5 -[312.44 --> 313.14] is that -[313.14 --> 315.56] it's not going to happen -[315.56 --> 317.72] if we don't intentionally then -[317.72 --> 319.16] pursue the vision. -[320.52 --> 321.42] Catch it, -[322.14 --> 322.90] follow it. -[323.66 --> 324.66] For this reason, -[324.76 --> 325.90] we saw in verse 5, -[326.00 --> 326.48] because, -[326.76 --> 327.30] in other words, -[327.34 --> 328.56] of who Jesus is, -[329.08 --> 330.54] make every effort -[330.54 --> 333.44] to add to this faith vision -[333.44 --> 335.46] the qualities of knowledge, -[335.46 --> 336.42] self-control, -[336.84 --> 337.34] perseverance, -[337.66 --> 338.68] and especially love. -[340.16 --> 340.66] Well, -[341.20 --> 343.36] once we have this vision -[343.36 --> 343.98] and intent, -[344.14 --> 345.50] how do you go about -[345.50 --> 347.06] making it happen? -[347.30 --> 348.40] That's the means. -[349.98 --> 350.68] Well, -[350.76 --> 352.12] we begin to practice -[352.12 --> 353.38] the disciplines, -[354.26 --> 355.20] the habits, -[355.20 --> 358.28] the ways that -[358.28 --> 360.46] open us up -[360.46 --> 361.76] to the Spirit -[361.76 --> 363.14] so that -[363.14 --> 365.34] He's able to shape us -[365.34 --> 367.58] into the image bearers -[367.58 --> 369.16] He created us to be. -[371.22 --> 372.26] One more word -[372.26 --> 373.16] before we get into -[373.16 --> 375.14] the passage about Scripture, -[375.80 --> 376.36] and that is -[376.36 --> 377.30] the bigger subject -[377.30 --> 378.52] of disciplines, -[378.64 --> 379.66] a word about that. -[380.66 --> 381.18] They're really -[381.18 --> 382.78] training exercises -[382.78 --> 383.34] like, -[383.94 --> 384.24] you know, -[384.38 --> 385.60] practicing piano -[385.60 --> 387.16] until you finally get it. -[390.76 --> 391.56] Practicing, -[391.84 --> 392.60] showing up -[392.60 --> 393.26] for -[393.26 --> 395.46] volleyball practices -[395.46 --> 396.94] and doing the drills -[396.94 --> 399.08] until you become -[399.08 --> 399.98] good at it. -[402.42 --> 403.34] Disciplines, -[403.68 --> 404.36] ultimately, -[404.70 --> 405.70] spiritual ones, -[405.82 --> 406.66] are intended -[406.66 --> 407.88] to help us -[407.88 --> 409.94] do the right thing -[409.94 --> 411.78] at the right time, -[412.38 --> 414.76] in the right way, -[415.48 --> 418.00] and in the right spirit, -[418.20 --> 419.36] as someone has said. -[420.28 --> 421.30] They help us -[421.30 --> 422.00] bear fruit -[422.00 --> 424.20] to do all these things -[424.20 --> 425.18] that are involved -[425.18 --> 425.86] with adding -[425.86 --> 427.72] to our faith. -[427.90 --> 428.90] And you know -[428.90 --> 430.16] there's many disciplines, -[431.46 --> 433.06] probably primary among them -[433.06 --> 433.84] are being -[433.84 --> 434.90] solitary -[434.90 --> 435.56] and -[435.56 --> 436.80] silent. -[438.20 --> 439.20] So we're going to look -[439.20 --> 439.82] at Scripture -[439.82 --> 440.76] there's prayer, -[440.98 --> 442.18] there's worship, -[442.66 --> 443.48] there's service, -[443.66 --> 444.34] there's giving, -[445.84 --> 446.96] there's fasting. -[447.24 --> 448.42] There's a wide variety -[448.42 --> 448.82] of them. -[449.78 --> 451.40] But one of the key ones -[451.40 --> 452.46] is reading -[452.46 --> 454.08] Scripture. -[455.26 --> 457.04] And in order for us -[457.04 --> 459.26] to see the importance -[459.26 --> 462.52] of this book, -[462.66 --> 463.62] or I should say -[463.62 --> 464.10] this way, -[464.16 --> 465.32] in order for us -[465.32 --> 466.18] to want -[466.18 --> 467.46] to discipline -[467.46 --> 468.52] ourselves -[468.52 --> 470.42] to read the Bible -[470.42 --> 471.26] faithfully, -[471.46 --> 472.70] we need to see -[472.70 --> 473.70] how important -[473.70 --> 474.48] a book -[474.48 --> 475.42] it is. -[479.10 --> 480.44] We won't bother -[480.44 --> 482.20] with the Bible -[482.20 --> 484.16] if we don't realize -[484.16 --> 486.34] what kind of a book -[486.34 --> 486.88] it is -[486.88 --> 488.32] and why God -[488.32 --> 489.28] had it written. -[490.56 --> 492.08] Just like we won't bother -[492.08 --> 492.90] with Christ -[492.90 --> 493.90] if we don't know -[493.90 --> 494.52] who He is -[494.52 --> 495.78] or why He came. -[496.96 --> 498.04] So Peter speaks -[498.04 --> 498.88] to the importance -[498.88 --> 499.56] of Scripture -[499.56 --> 500.48] in our lives -[500.48 --> 501.72] in our passage, -[501.86 --> 502.82] 2 Peter 1, -[503.06 --> 504.34] 12 to 21. -[505.70 --> 507.00] After having spoken -[507.00 --> 507.70] about vision -[507.70 --> 508.38] and intent, -[508.50 --> 509.04] he goes on -[509.04 --> 510.02] to say in verse 12, -[510.02 --> 511.86] so I will always -[511.86 --> 512.84] remind you -[512.84 --> 514.58] of these things -[514.58 --> 515.44] even though -[515.44 --> 516.64] you know them -[516.64 --> 517.88] and are firmly -[517.88 --> 518.48] established -[518.48 --> 519.36] in the truth -[519.36 --> 520.64] you now have. -[521.36 --> 522.74] I think it's right -[522.74 --> 523.50] to refresh -[523.50 --> 524.18] your memory -[524.18 --> 525.48] as long as I live -[525.48 --> 526.26] in the tent -[526.26 --> 527.58] of this body -[527.58 --> 529.88] because I know -[529.88 --> 531.42] that I will soon -[531.42 --> 533.28] put it aside -[533.28 --> 535.24] as our Lord Jesus -[535.24 --> 536.78] has made clear -[536.78 --> 537.22] to me. -[537.22 --> 538.50] people often know -[538.50 --> 540.34] when they're -[540.34 --> 542.02] about to go. -[543.02 --> 544.56] And I will make -[544.56 --> 545.82] every effort -[545.82 --> 546.94] to see -[546.94 --> 547.84] that after -[547.84 --> 548.96] my departure -[548.96 --> 550.76] you will always -[550.76 --> 551.40] be able -[551.40 --> 552.22] to remember -[552.22 --> 553.36] these things. -[553.74 --> 554.32] Why? -[558.32 --> 559.72] Because we didn't -[559.72 --> 561.00] follow cleverly -[561.00 --> 562.22] devised stories -[562.22 --> 563.70] when we told -[563.70 --> 564.24] you about -[564.24 --> 565.56] and it really -[565.56 --> 566.68] means the second -[566.68 --> 567.22] coming -[567.22 --> 568.32] of our Lord -[568.32 --> 569.34] Jesus Christ -[569.34 --> 570.14] in power. -[571.72 --> 572.38] But therefore -[572.38 --> 574.44] we were eyewitnesses -[574.44 --> 575.90] of his majesty. -[577.18 --> 578.10] He received -[578.10 --> 579.52] honor and glory -[579.52 --> 580.86] from God the Father -[580.86 --> 581.62] when the voice -[581.62 --> 582.36] came to him -[582.36 --> 583.30] from the majestic -[583.30 --> 583.90] glory. -[584.20 --> 584.76] This is when he -[584.76 --> 585.62] was on the mountain -[585.62 --> 586.10] saying, -[586.70 --> 587.68] this is my son -[587.68 --> 588.58] whom I love. -[589.38 --> 589.90] With him -[589.90 --> 590.98] I'm well pleased. -[590.98 --> 592.16] we ourselves -[592.16 --> 593.22] heard this voice -[593.22 --> 594.40] that came from heaven -[594.40 --> 595.46] when we were -[595.46 --> 596.10] with him -[596.10 --> 597.44] on the sacred -[597.44 --> 598.02] mountain -[598.02 --> 598.74] and Christ -[598.74 --> 599.70] was transfigured -[599.70 --> 600.40] before them. -[601.88 --> 602.52] So that's -[602.52 --> 603.36] Peter's experience -[603.36 --> 604.12] but he goes on -[604.12 --> 604.38] to say, -[604.78 --> 605.58] we also have -[605.58 --> 606.84] this prophetic -[606.84 --> 608.06] message as something -[608.06 --> 609.86] completely reliable -[609.86 --> 611.26] and you will do -[611.26 --> 611.98] well to pay -[611.98 --> 613.10] attention to it -[613.10 --> 615.20] as to a light -[615.20 --> 616.30] shining in a dark -[616.30 --> 616.90] place -[616.90 --> 618.22] until the day -[618.22 --> 618.98] dawns -[618.98 --> 620.10] and the morning -[620.10 --> 621.24] star rises -[621.24 --> 622.74] in your hearts. -[622.82 --> 623.48] In other words, -[623.92 --> 625.44] you'd read it -[625.44 --> 626.16] until the light -[626.16 --> 626.80] goes on -[626.80 --> 627.64] is what he's -[627.64 --> 628.02] saying. -[628.70 --> 629.76] Above all, -[630.66 --> 631.62] above all, -[631.94 --> 633.18] you must -[633.18 --> 634.40] understand -[634.40 --> 637.06] that no -[637.06 --> 638.00] prophecy of -[638.00 --> 638.38] scripture -[638.38 --> 639.50] came about -[639.50 --> 641.44] by a prophet's -[641.44 --> 642.22] own -[642.22 --> 643.26] interpretation -[643.26 --> 644.84] of things. -[645.52 --> 646.08] The Bible -[646.08 --> 647.24] is not a matter -[647.24 --> 648.52] of private -[648.52 --> 649.46] opinion. -[651.06 --> 652.18] For prophecy -[652.18 --> 653.66] never had its -[653.66 --> 654.62] origin in the -[654.62 --> 655.46] human will -[655.46 --> 657.76] but prophets, -[658.04 --> 659.02] though human, -[659.98 --> 661.78] spoke from God -[661.78 --> 663.20] as they were -[663.20 --> 664.54] carried along -[664.54 --> 666.48] by the Holy Spirit. -[667.86 --> 669.12] Or as the message -[669.12 --> 669.62] says, -[670.26 --> 671.42] prophecy resulted -[671.42 --> 672.76] when the Holy Spirit -[672.76 --> 674.18] prompted men -[674.18 --> 675.02] and women -[675.02 --> 676.00] to speak -[676.00 --> 677.24] God's word. -[679.32 --> 680.22] Peter's talking -[680.22 --> 681.12] about how you -[681.12 --> 681.48] and I, -[681.58 --> 682.04] brothers and -[682.04 --> 682.42] sisters, -[682.90 --> 683.68] view the Bible. -[685.48 --> 686.34] How do you -[686.34 --> 686.74] view it? -[686.76 --> 687.46] Is it just a -[687.46 --> 688.48] matter of mere -[688.48 --> 689.54] interest, -[689.90 --> 690.42] stories, -[691.02 --> 691.54] teachings, -[691.84 --> 692.44] ideas, -[692.80 --> 693.36] gathered -[693.36 --> 694.46] by a few -[694.46 --> 695.12] folks -[695.12 --> 695.98] who saw -[695.98 --> 696.68] potential? -[697.08 --> 697.60] This could be -[697.60 --> 698.32] a bestseller. -[698.58 --> 699.16] Let's put it -[699.16 --> 700.00] together and -[700.00 --> 700.66] publish it. -[701.42 --> 703.74] Is this just -[703.74 --> 704.72] another book -[704.72 --> 705.72] that you put -[705.72 --> 706.50] in the religious -[706.50 --> 707.72] section of -[707.72 --> 708.64] the library? -[710.16 --> 711.36] If so, -[711.74 --> 712.54] chances are -[712.54 --> 713.50] you won't -[713.50 --> 714.50] pick it up. -[715.80 --> 717.00] We need -[717.00 --> 718.08] to understand -[718.08 --> 719.50] that this book -[719.50 --> 720.70] is the very -[720.70 --> 723.16] special revelation -[723.16 --> 724.60] of God -[724.60 --> 725.58] concerning -[725.58 --> 726.76] who Christ -[726.76 --> 727.44] is. -[728.58 --> 729.08] And in the -[729.08 --> 729.82] Old Testament, -[729.82 --> 731.42] even though -[731.42 --> 732.10] those writers -[732.10 --> 733.02] were fully -[733.02 --> 733.72] human with -[733.72 --> 734.22] their own -[734.22 --> 735.38] set of -[735.38 --> 737.00] issues and -[737.00 --> 738.24] flare-ups and -[738.24 --> 739.00] downs and -[739.00 --> 739.62] circumstances -[739.62 --> 740.80] to deal -[740.80 --> 741.16] with, -[742.02 --> 742.52] God -[742.52 --> 743.94] inspired them -[743.94 --> 744.64] by His -[744.64 --> 745.50] Holy Spirit -[745.50 --> 746.22] to write -[746.22 --> 746.56] what they -[746.56 --> 746.86] did. -[748.52 --> 749.54] He used -[749.54 --> 750.12] prophets -[750.12 --> 750.90] to call -[750.90 --> 751.46] people -[751.46 --> 752.68] back to -[752.68 --> 753.02] Him -[753.02 --> 754.98] while -[754.98 --> 755.66] promising -[755.66 --> 756.42] a Messiah -[756.42 --> 757.04] would come. -[758.30 --> 759.08] And the -[759.08 --> 759.74] New Testament -[759.74 --> 760.64] writers like -[760.64 --> 761.14] Peter, -[761.78 --> 762.02] he says, -[762.10 --> 762.72] so he's -[762.72 --> 762.98] really, -[763.14 --> 763.80] all he has -[763.80 --> 764.26] at this time -[764.26 --> 764.68] is the Old -[764.68 --> 765.06] Testament, -[765.20 --> 765.42] right? -[766.12 --> 766.62] He says, -[766.74 --> 767.80] you can trust -[767.80 --> 768.20] them, -[768.58 --> 769.22] but now you -[769.22 --> 769.70] can also -[769.70 --> 770.82] trust us -[770.82 --> 771.48] to be -[771.48 --> 772.04] completely -[772.04 --> 772.70] reliable -[772.70 --> 774.08] in passing -[774.08 --> 774.96] this message -[774.96 --> 775.40] on. -[775.40 --> 776.40] God -[776.40 --> 777.40] will -[777.40 --> 777.84] be -[777.84 --> 778.40] to be -[778.40 --> 778.80] God -[778.80 --> 779.40] and I'm -[779.40 --> 780.78] not going to -[780.78 --> 781.40] retire, -[781.40 --> 781.84] Peter says, -[781.84 --> 783.02] from ever -[783.02 --> 784.20] reminding you -[784.20 --> 785.92] that Jesus -[785.92 --> 786.92] is the one -[786.92 --> 787.52] who has -[787.52 --> 788.28] delivered on -[788.28 --> 789.14] all what -[789.14 --> 789.52] the Old -[789.52 --> 789.96] Testament -[789.96 --> 790.60] promised. -[791.88 --> 792.42] He's this -[792.42 --> 793.14] bright light -[793.14 --> 794.12] that shines -[794.12 --> 795.34] into all -[795.34 --> 796.00] of your -[796.00 --> 796.74] and my -[796.74 --> 797.44] dark -[797.44 --> 798.06] corners -[798.06 --> 798.80] if you'll -[798.80 --> 799.14] let him. -[799.14 --> 801.54] he's so -[801.54 --> 802.22] assured of -[802.22 --> 802.76] who Jesus -[802.76 --> 803.58] is because -[803.58 --> 804.74] of his -[804.74 --> 805.60] own experience. -[805.72 --> 806.36] He witnessed -[806.36 --> 807.20] this brilliant -[807.20 --> 808.84] light when -[808.84 --> 809.44] he was with -[809.44 --> 810.40] Jesus and -[810.40 --> 811.32] others on -[811.32 --> 811.92] the mountain -[811.92 --> 813.56] and there -[813.56 --> 814.02] were Moses -[814.02 --> 814.70] and Elijah -[814.70 --> 816.70] and he -[816.70 --> 817.24] heard God -[817.24 --> 817.60] say, -[818.20 --> 818.68] this is my -[818.68 --> 820.78] son whom -[820.78 --> 821.50] I love -[821.50 --> 822.78] who is the -[822.78 --> 823.82] focus of -[823.82 --> 824.60] my delight. -[827.20 --> 828.06] But don't -[828.06 --> 828.70] just take my -[828.70 --> 829.66] word for it. -[829.98 --> 830.34] Peter -[830.34 --> 831.88] emphatically -[831.88 --> 832.54] goes on -[832.54 --> 833.32] to insist -[833.32 --> 835.80] this is -[835.80 --> 836.98] one our -[836.98 --> 837.66] entire -[837.66 --> 838.38] scriptures -[838.38 --> 839.18] has been -[839.18 --> 839.98] pointed to. -[840.14 --> 840.70] This is the -[840.70 --> 841.40] one rather -[841.40 --> 842.40] the Bible's -[842.40 --> 843.20] all pointing -[843.20 --> 844.02] to it. -[845.06 --> 845.92] Above all -[845.92 --> 847.78] realize -[847.78 --> 848.60] that these -[848.60 --> 849.18] prophets -[849.18 --> 849.92] back there -[849.92 --> 850.82] weren't -[850.82 --> 851.44] just -[851.44 --> 852.54] philosophers -[852.54 --> 853.28] giving -[853.28 --> 854.58] their world -[854.58 --> 855.54] and life -[855.54 --> 855.90] view. -[855.90 --> 858.96] Moses and -[858.96 --> 859.98] David just -[859.98 --> 860.68] weren't telling -[860.68 --> 861.80] us here's -[861.80 --> 862.46] what I -[862.46 --> 863.16] think. -[864.46 --> 865.10] Those -[865.10 --> 865.72] stories, -[866.06 --> 866.90] those poems, -[867.52 --> 868.64] those prophecies -[868.64 --> 870.18] are spirit -[870.18 --> 871.10] inspired. -[872.38 --> 873.56] And so we -[873.56 --> 874.52] do so well -[874.52 --> 875.58] to pay -[875.58 --> 876.06] attention -[876.06 --> 877.00] to them -[877.00 --> 878.12] and let -[878.12 --> 879.20] that spirit -[879.20 --> 881.16] that inspired -[881.16 --> 882.38] them by -[882.38 --> 883.36] reading it -[883.36 --> 884.56] get inside -[884.56 --> 885.14] of us. -[887.58 --> 888.34] You know we -[888.34 --> 888.66] have a -[888.66 --> 889.14] confession -[889.14 --> 889.74] that's called -[889.74 --> 890.36] the Belgic -[890.36 --> 891.00] Confession -[891.00 --> 891.46] and it's -[891.46 --> 891.82] the only -[891.82 --> 892.98] one of -[892.98 --> 893.72] the confessions -[893.72 --> 894.50] that speaks -[894.50 --> 896.10] into what -[896.10 --> 896.70] the scriptures -[896.70 --> 897.60] are about -[897.60 --> 898.48] and in -[898.48 --> 899.70] article 5 -[899.70 --> 900.22] it says -[900.22 --> 900.88] this about -[900.88 --> 901.46] the Bible -[901.46 --> 901.90] it says -[901.90 --> 902.60] we receive -[902.60 --> 903.18] all these -[903.18 --> 903.66] books -[903.66 --> 904.54] and these -[904.54 --> 905.02] only -[905.02 --> 905.36] and it -[905.36 --> 905.86] talks about -[905.86 --> 906.64] the 66 -[906.64 --> 907.46] as holy -[907.46 --> 908.28] and canonical -[908.28 --> 909.32] for the -[909.32 --> 910.12] regulating -[910.12 --> 911.00] founding -[911.00 --> 912.40] and establishing -[912.40 --> 913.36] of our -[913.36 --> 913.78] faith. -[915.12 --> 915.96] And we -[915.96 --> 916.46] believe -[916.46 --> 917.20] without a -[917.20 --> 917.48] doubt -[917.48 --> 918.30] all things -[918.30 --> 919.22] contained in -[919.22 --> 919.42] them -[919.42 --> 920.46] not so much -[920.46 --> 921.20] because the -[921.20 --> 921.64] church -[921.64 --> 922.76] receives them -[922.76 --> 923.68] and approves -[923.68 --> 924.40] them as such -[924.40 --> 925.18] because somebody -[925.18 --> 926.04] gets up and -[926.04 --> 926.72] says you -[926.72 --> 927.06] want to -[927.06 --> 927.70] believe this -[927.70 --> 929.20] but above -[929.20 --> 930.20] all because -[930.20 --> 931.06] the Holy -[931.06 --> 931.80] Spirit -[931.80 --> 933.12] testifies -[933.12 --> 934.10] in our -[934.10 --> 934.56] hearts -[934.56 --> 935.16] that they -[935.16 --> 935.62] are from -[935.62 --> 936.00] God. -[936.00 --> 937.24] but he -[937.24 --> 937.64] can't -[937.64 --> 938.10] testify -[938.10 --> 938.76] if you -[938.76 --> 939.04] don't -[939.04 --> 939.54] read it. -[941.98 --> 942.88] And also -[942.88 --> 943.24] it goes -[943.24 --> 943.62] on to -[943.62 --> 943.84] say -[943.84 --> 945.26] we know -[945.26 --> 945.50] they're -[945.50 --> 945.70] true -[945.70 --> 946.08] because -[946.08 --> 946.30] they -[946.30 --> 946.70] prove -[946.70 --> 947.16] themselves -[947.16 --> 947.98] to be -[947.98 --> 948.52] from -[948.52 --> 948.94] God. -[949.04 --> 949.26] Even -[949.26 --> 949.86] the blind -[949.86 --> 950.40] themselves -[950.40 --> 950.94] are able -[950.94 --> 951.38] to see -[951.38 --> 952.04] the things -[952.04 --> 952.80] predicted -[952.80 --> 953.34] in them -[953.34 --> 954.06] happen. -[956.92 --> 957.88] The only -[957.88 --> 958.42] way the -[958.42 --> 958.84] Bible -[958.84 --> 959.42] is going -[959.42 --> 960.06] to become -[960.06 --> 961.14] authoritative -[961.14 --> 961.96] in your -[961.96 --> 962.70] or my -[962.70 --> 963.30] life -[963.30 --> 965.00] is if -[965.00 --> 965.50] we read -[965.50 --> 965.70] it. -[966.00 --> 969.26] if we -[969.26 --> 969.84] accept -[969.84 --> 970.20] it -[970.20 --> 971.06] as we -[971.06 --> 971.62] read it -[971.62 --> 972.48] as the -[972.48 --> 972.96] word -[972.96 --> 973.92] of -[973.92 --> 974.34] and -[974.34 --> 974.76] from -[974.76 --> 975.26] God. -[977.30 --> 978.00] Today -[978.00 --> 979.00] the primary -[979.00 --> 979.86] text -[979.86 --> 980.70] of most -[980.70 --> 981.28] people -[981.28 --> 982.38] which we -[982.38 --> 982.92] take as -[982.92 --> 983.46] the final -[983.46 --> 984.00] authority -[984.00 --> 984.42] often -[984.42 --> 984.76] is -[984.76 --> 986.00] ourselves. -[986.72 --> 987.22] In our -[987.22 --> 987.64] secular -[987.64 --> 988.20] age -[988.20 --> 990.22] we do -[990.22 --> 990.94] not turn -[990.94 --> 991.28] in our -[991.28 --> 991.74] culture -[991.74 --> 993.00] to a -[993.00 --> 993.42] word -[993.42 --> 994.08] that we -[994.08 --> 994.60] believe -[994.60 --> 995.48] is from -[995.48 --> 995.88] God. -[998.52 --> 999.24] We -[999.24 --> 999.76] will only -[999.76 --> 1000.40] subject -[1000.40 --> 1001.00] ourselves -[1001.00 --> 1001.36] to -[1001.36 --> 1001.74] scripture -[1001.74 --> 1003.46] when we -[1003.46 --> 1003.92] are willing -[1003.92 --> 1004.66] to submit -[1004.66 --> 1005.22] that the -[1005.22 --> 1005.70] Spirit -[1005.70 --> 1006.70] authored -[1006.70 --> 1007.92] this book. -[1008.92 --> 1009.86] If you -[1009.86 --> 1010.26] and I -[1010.26 --> 1010.98] want to be -[1010.98 --> 1011.90] carried along -[1011.90 --> 1012.70] or learn -[1012.70 --> 1013.24] to live -[1013.24 --> 1013.78] with as -[1013.78 --> 1014.36] Galatians -[1014.36 --> 1014.70] says -[1014.70 --> 1015.58] in step -[1015.58 --> 1015.94] with the -[1015.94 --> 1016.82] Holy Spirit -[1016.82 --> 1017.74] I need -[1017.74 --> 1018.32] to accept -[1018.32 --> 1018.80] this is -[1018.80 --> 1019.18] God's -[1019.18 --> 1019.90] love story. -[1019.90 --> 1021.72] I need -[1021.72 --> 1022.38] to identify -[1022.38 --> 1023.26] myself -[1023.26 --> 1023.80] with it -[1023.80 --> 1025.88] and see -[1025.88 --> 1026.42] that this -[1026.42 --> 1027.24] tells the -[1027.24 --> 1027.94] whole story -[1027.94 --> 1028.30] of what -[1028.30 --> 1028.72] God's -[1028.72 --> 1029.38] up to -[1029.38 --> 1030.30] on this -[1030.30 --> 1030.66] earth -[1030.66 --> 1032.72] because -[1032.72 --> 1033.40] then I'll -[1033.40 --> 1034.22] begin -[1034.22 --> 1035.12] to let -[1035.12 --> 1035.42] it -[1035.42 --> 1036.70] regulate -[1036.70 --> 1038.28] my life. -[1040.68 --> 1041.66] The Bible -[1041.66 --> 1042.08] is there -[1042.08 --> 1042.44] as the -[1042.44 --> 1042.96] confession -[1042.96 --> 1043.36] says -[1043.36 --> 1043.74] for the -[1043.74 --> 1044.46] regulating -[1044.46 --> 1045.56] founding -[1045.56 --> 1046.20] and -[1046.20 --> 1046.98] establishing -[1046.98 --> 1048.16] of our -[1048.16 --> 1048.60] faith. -[1049.94 --> 1050.38] One of the -[1050.38 --> 1050.92] first things -[1050.92 --> 1051.34] it does -[1051.34 --> 1051.80] is help -[1051.80 --> 1052.72] help me -[1052.72 --> 1053.38] believe -[1053.38 --> 1054.84] that Christ -[1054.84 --> 1055.36] is the -[1055.36 --> 1055.68] one. -[1056.96 --> 1057.24] It goes -[1057.24 --> 1057.56] on -[1057.56 --> 1058.14] the -[1058.14 --> 1058.60] confession -[1058.60 --> 1058.94] does -[1058.94 --> 1059.44] in article -[1059.44 --> 1059.96] 7 -[1059.96 --> 1060.48] to talk -[1060.48 --> 1060.72] about -[1060.72 --> 1060.94] the -[1060.94 --> 1061.56] sufficiency -[1061.56 --> 1061.92] of -[1061.92 --> 1062.44] scripture. -[1063.06 --> 1063.40] It -[1063.40 --> 1063.78] states -[1063.78 --> 1064.16] this -[1064.16 --> 1064.62] in -[1064.62 --> 1065.24] Belgic -[1065.24 --> 1065.74] Confession -[1065.74 --> 1066.08] article -[1066.08 --> 1066.56] 7 -[1066.56 --> 1066.78] we -[1066.78 --> 1067.32] believe -[1067.32 --> 1067.62] this -[1067.62 --> 1068.34] holy -[1068.34 --> 1069.16] scripture -[1069.16 --> 1070.46] contains -[1070.46 --> 1070.78] the -[1070.78 --> 1071.00] will -[1071.00 --> 1071.20] of -[1071.20 --> 1071.48] God -[1071.48 --> 1072.40] completely -[1072.40 --> 1073.32] and -[1073.32 --> 1073.62] that -[1073.62 --> 1075.04] everything -[1075.04 --> 1075.66] one -[1075.66 --> 1076.06] must -[1076.06 --> 1076.68] believe -[1076.68 --> 1077.20] to be -[1077.20 --> 1077.86] saved. -[1078.86 --> 1079.54] In other -[1079.54 --> 1079.84] words it -[1079.84 --> 1080.50] limits the -[1080.50 --> 1080.80] purpose -[1080.80 --> 1081.18] of the -[1081.18 --> 1081.58] scriptures. -[1082.14 --> 1082.48] Everything -[1082.48 --> 1083.04] one -[1083.04 --> 1083.62] must -[1083.62 --> 1083.96] believe -[1083.96 --> 1084.44] to be -[1084.44 --> 1085.44] saved -[1085.44 --> 1085.96] is -[1085.96 --> 1086.78] sufficiently -[1086.78 --> 1087.26] taught -[1087.26 --> 1087.70] in it. -[1091.14 --> 1091.84] There's a -[1091.84 --> 1092.42] story in -[1092.42 --> 1093.22] John 5 -[1093.22 --> 1093.80] where Jesus -[1093.80 --> 1094.40] is in -[1094.40 --> 1094.76] debate -[1094.76 --> 1095.16] with the -[1095.16 --> 1095.50] Jewish -[1095.50 --> 1095.92] leaders. -[1096.08 --> 1096.40] They were -[1096.40 --> 1097.50] Old Testament -[1097.50 --> 1098.14] scholars -[1098.14 --> 1098.60] and they -[1098.60 --> 1099.06] loved the -[1099.06 --> 1099.38] Bible. -[1099.54 --> 1099.80] It was -[1099.80 --> 1100.42] their pride -[1100.42 --> 1101.08] and joy -[1101.08 --> 1102.62] but they -[1102.62 --> 1102.98] hadn't -[1102.98 --> 1103.34] gotten -[1103.34 --> 1103.66] the -[1103.66 --> 1104.10] message. -[1104.28 --> 1104.40] They -[1104.40 --> 1104.78] hadn't -[1104.78 --> 1105.22] let it -[1105.22 --> 1105.78] penetrate -[1105.78 --> 1106.40] their own -[1106.40 --> 1106.80] souls. -[1107.14 --> 1107.40] This -[1107.40 --> 1107.78] is what -[1107.78 --> 1108.10] Jesus -[1108.10 --> 1108.60] said to -[1108.60 --> 1108.80] them -[1108.80 --> 1108.98] in -[1108.98 --> 1109.24] John -[1109.24 --> 1109.74] 5 -[1109.74 --> 1110.24] 39. -[1111.24 --> 1111.36] He -[1111.36 --> 1111.66] said -[1111.66 --> 1111.82] you -[1111.82 --> 1112.24] study -[1112.24 --> 1112.52] the -[1112.52 --> 1112.90] scriptures -[1112.90 --> 1113.66] diligently -[1113.66 --> 1114.12] because -[1114.12 --> 1114.40] you -[1114.40 --> 1114.80] think -[1114.80 --> 1115.14] that -[1115.14 --> 1115.56] in -[1115.56 --> 1116.12] them -[1116.12 --> 1116.92] you -[1116.92 --> 1117.56] have -[1117.56 --> 1118.64] eternal -[1118.64 --> 1119.50] life. -[1120.36 --> 1121.04] These -[1121.04 --> 1121.44] are the -[1121.44 --> 1121.84] very -[1121.84 --> 1122.46] scriptures -[1122.46 --> 1123.16] that -[1123.16 --> 1123.84] testify -[1123.84 --> 1125.40] about -[1125.40 --> 1126.12] me -[1126.12 --> 1127.92] yet -[1127.92 --> 1128.22] you -[1128.22 --> 1129.04] refuse -[1129.04 --> 1129.66] to -[1129.66 --> 1130.06] come -[1130.06 --> 1130.32] to -[1130.32 --> 1130.74] me -[1130.74 --> 1131.52] to -[1131.52 --> 1131.82] have -[1131.82 --> 1132.24] life. -[1132.24 --> 1136.36] the -[1136.36 --> 1136.68] scriptures -[1136.68 --> 1136.98] are -[1136.98 --> 1137.28] written -[1137.28 --> 1138.98] to -[1138.98 --> 1139.34] point -[1139.34 --> 1139.62] us -[1139.62 --> 1139.80] in -[1139.80 --> 1139.96] the -[1139.96 --> 1140.36] way -[1140.36 --> 1141.24] of -[1141.24 --> 1141.92] salvation -[1141.92 --> 1142.54] and -[1142.54 --> 1143.08] life. -[1145.12 --> 1145.56] The -[1145.56 --> 1145.92] saving -[1145.92 --> 1146.42] knowledge -[1146.42 --> 1146.62] that -[1146.62 --> 1146.86] come -[1146.86 --> 1147.08] through -[1147.08 --> 1147.60] scriptures -[1147.60 --> 1147.92] what -[1147.92 --> 1148.32] Paul -[1148.32 --> 1149.44] empathizes -[1149.44 --> 1149.86] to -[1149.86 --> 1150.42] Timothy -[1150.42 --> 1151.60] in -[1151.60 --> 1151.80] our -[1151.80 --> 1152.22] third -[1152.22 --> 1153.40] passage -[1153.40 --> 1153.94] and -[1153.94 --> 1154.30] last -[1154.30 --> 1154.58] one -[1154.58 --> 1154.78] for -[1154.78 --> 1155.04] this -[1155.04 --> 1155.40] morning -[1155.40 --> 1155.76] 2 -[1155.76 --> 1156.24] Timothy -[1156.24 --> 1156.76] 3 -[1156.76 --> 1157.68] verses -[1157.68 --> 1158.10] 10 -[1158.10 --> 1158.28] to -[1158.28 --> 1158.78] 17 -[1158.78 --> 1161.10] where -[1161.10 --> 1161.40] Paul -[1161.40 --> 1161.76] writes -[1161.76 --> 1161.98] you -[1161.98 --> 1162.28] however -[1162.28 --> 1162.58] know -[1162.58 --> 1162.82] all -[1162.82 --> 1163.06] about -[1163.06 --> 1163.30] my -[1163.30 --> 1163.82] teaching -[1163.82 --> 1164.74] my -[1164.74 --> 1164.98] way -[1164.98 --> 1165.12] of -[1165.12 --> 1165.56] life -[1165.56 --> 1166.58] my -[1166.58 --> 1167.14] purpose -[1167.14 --> 1167.96] faith -[1167.96 --> 1169.26] patience -[1169.26 --> 1170.36] love -[1170.36 --> 1171.36] endurance -[1171.36 --> 1172.84] persecutions -[1172.84 --> 1173.84] sufferings -[1173.84 --> 1174.38] what -[1174.38 --> 1174.78] kinds -[1174.78 --> 1174.94] of -[1174.94 --> 1175.20] things -[1175.20 --> 1175.54] happened -[1175.54 --> 1175.76] to -[1175.76 --> 1175.92] me -[1175.92 --> 1176.08] in -[1176.08 --> 1176.98] Antioch -[1176.98 --> 1177.98] Iconium -[1177.98 --> 1178.68] and Lystra -[1178.68 --> 1179.18] the -[1179.18 --> 1180.08] persecutions -[1180.08 --> 1180.46] I -[1180.46 --> 1181.06] endured -[1181.06 --> 1182.06] yet the -[1182.06 --> 1182.26] Lord -[1182.26 --> 1182.74] rescued -[1182.74 --> 1183.02] me -[1183.02 --> 1183.32] from -[1183.32 --> 1183.78] all of -[1183.78 --> 1183.96] them -[1183.96 --> 1184.58] in -[1184.58 --> 1184.80] fact -[1184.80 --> 1185.24] everyone -[1185.24 --> 1185.82] who -[1185.82 --> 1186.16] wants -[1186.16 --> 1186.32] to -[1186.32 --> 1186.46] live -[1186.46 --> 1186.62] a -[1186.62 --> 1186.98] godly -[1186.98 --> 1187.32] life -[1187.32 --> 1187.50] in -[1187.50 --> 1187.84] Christ -[1187.84 --> 1188.24] Jesus -[1188.24 --> 1189.00] will -[1189.00 --> 1189.22] be -[1189.22 --> 1190.00] persecuted -[1190.00 --> 1190.36] or -[1190.36 --> 1190.82] today -[1190.82 --> 1191.32] in -[1191.32 --> 1191.52] our -[1191.52 --> 1191.90] culture -[1191.90 --> 1192.12] we -[1192.12 --> 1192.32] would -[1192.32 --> 1192.74] say -[1192.74 --> 1193.88] ridiculed -[1193.88 --> 1196.30] yet -[1196.30 --> 1196.50] the -[1196.50 --> 1196.70] Lord -[1196.70 --> 1197.12] rescued -[1197.12 --> 1197.36] me -[1197.36 --> 1197.56] from -[1197.56 --> 1197.76] all -[1197.76 --> 1197.88] of -[1197.88 --> 1198.10] them -[1198.10 --> 1198.54] oh -[1198.54 --> 1198.88] I'm -[1198.88 --> 1199.54] backing -[1199.54 --> 1199.78] up -[1199.78 --> 1200.32] in -[1200.32 --> 1200.48] fact -[1200.48 --> 1200.88] everyone -[1200.88 --> 1201.12] who -[1201.12 --> 1201.38] wants -[1201.38 --> 1201.50] to -[1201.50 --> 1201.62] live -[1201.62 --> 1201.74] a -[1201.74 --> 1202.06] godly -[1202.06 --> 1202.34] life -[1202.34 --> 1202.50] in -[1202.50 --> 1202.78] Christ -[1202.78 --> 1203.10] Jesus -[1203.10 --> 1203.42] will -[1203.42 --> 1203.64] be -[1203.64 --> 1204.38] ridiculed -[1204.38 --> 1204.62] while -[1204.62 --> 1205.38] evildoers -[1205.38 --> 1205.92] and -[1205.92 --> 1206.72] imposters -[1206.72 --> 1207.64] will -[1207.64 --> 1207.84] go -[1207.84 --> 1208.12] from -[1208.12 --> 1208.42] bad -[1208.42 --> 1208.64] to -[1208.64 --> 1209.00] worse -[1209.00 --> 1209.74] deceiving -[1209.74 --> 1210.12] and -[1210.12 --> 1210.46] being -[1210.46 --> 1211.08] deceived -[1211.08 --> 1212.84] but -[1212.84 --> 1213.20] as -[1213.20 --> 1213.54] for -[1213.54 --> 1214.06] you -[1214.06 --> 1216.26] we're -[1216.26 --> 1216.40] a -[1216.40 --> 1217.18] counterculture -[1217.18 --> 1218.38] continue -[1218.38 --> 1219.12] in -[1219.12 --> 1219.44] what -[1219.44 --> 1219.78] you've -[1219.78 --> 1220.32] learned -[1220.32 --> 1221.82] and -[1221.82 --> 1222.24] become -[1222.24 --> 1222.90] convinced -[1222.90 --> 1223.28] of -[1223.28 --> 1224.62] because -[1224.62 --> 1225.86] you know -[1225.86 --> 1226.34] those -[1226.34 --> 1227.16] from whom -[1227.16 --> 1227.78] you learned -[1227.78 --> 1228.02] it -[1228.02 --> 1228.44] and he's -[1228.44 --> 1228.96] talking to -[1228.96 --> 1229.34] Timothy -[1229.34 --> 1229.92] who learned -[1229.92 --> 1230.20] it in -[1230.20 --> 1230.66] the home -[1230.66 --> 1231.30] from his -[1231.30 --> 1231.86] mother and -[1231.86 --> 1232.38] grandmother -[1232.38 --> 1234.22] and how -[1234.22 --> 1234.52] from -[1234.52 --> 1235.54] infancy -[1235.54 --> 1236.54] you have -[1236.54 --> 1236.96] known -[1236.96 --> 1237.62] the holy -[1237.62 --> 1238.18] scriptures -[1238.18 --> 1239.00] and here's -[1239.00 --> 1239.90] their purpose -[1239.90 --> 1241.26] able to -[1241.26 --> 1242.10] make you -[1242.10 --> 1243.04] wise -[1243.04 --> 1244.14] for -[1244.14 --> 1245.06] salvation -[1245.06 --> 1245.80] through -[1245.80 --> 1246.48] faith -[1246.48 --> 1247.36] in -[1247.36 --> 1247.80] Christ -[1247.80 --> 1248.46] Jesus -[1248.46 --> 1250.58] all -[1250.58 --> 1251.20] scriptures -[1251.20 --> 1251.84] God -[1251.84 --> 1253.02] breathed -[1253.02 --> 1254.18] spirit -[1254.18 --> 1254.92] inspired -[1254.92 --> 1256.20] useful -[1256.20 --> 1257.08] for -[1257.08 --> 1257.84] teaching -[1257.84 --> 1259.44] rebuking -[1259.44 --> 1260.74] correcting -[1260.74 --> 1261.82] and -[1261.82 --> 1262.48] training -[1262.48 --> 1262.90] in -[1262.90 --> 1263.70] righteousness -[1263.70 --> 1265.34] so that -[1265.34 --> 1266.34] the servant -[1266.34 --> 1267.08] of God -[1267.08 --> 1268.00] may be -[1268.00 --> 1268.70] thoroughly -[1268.70 --> 1269.38] equipped -[1269.38 --> 1270.42] for -[1270.42 --> 1271.02] every -[1271.02 --> 1271.90] good -[1271.90 --> 1272.36] work -[1272.36 --> 1276.84] now I don't -[1276.84 --> 1277.44] want to force -[1277.44 --> 1278.08] a structure -[1278.08 --> 1278.62] on this -[1278.62 --> 1279.08] passage -[1279.08 --> 1279.92] as I speak -[1279.92 --> 1280.72] further on -[1280.72 --> 1280.94] it -[1280.94 --> 1282.22] one that's -[1282.22 --> 1282.76] not there -[1282.76 --> 1284.36] but I think -[1284.36 --> 1284.78] it may be -[1284.78 --> 1285.42] helpful to -[1285.42 --> 1285.90] see how -[1285.90 --> 1286.42] what Paul -[1286.42 --> 1287.20] is attributing -[1287.20 --> 1288.06] to the work -[1288.06 --> 1289.14] of scripture -[1289.14 --> 1289.80] in our -[1289.80 --> 1290.38] lives -[1290.38 --> 1292.00] is similar -[1292.00 --> 1292.66] to what -[1292.66 --> 1293.44] Jesus said -[1293.44 --> 1294.02] the work -[1294.02 --> 1294.30] of the -[1294.30 --> 1295.08] Holy Spirit -[1295.08 --> 1295.86] is in -[1295.86 --> 1297.22] John 16 -[1297.22 --> 1297.86] where he -[1297.86 --> 1298.30] said the -[1298.30 --> 1299.04] spirit would -[1299.04 --> 1300.36] come and -[1300.36 --> 1301.32] convict the -[1301.32 --> 1302.06] world of -[1302.06 --> 1303.14] three things -[1303.14 --> 1304.48] the spirit -[1304.48 --> 1305.22] would convict -[1305.22 --> 1305.68] the world -[1305.68 --> 1306.54] of sin -[1306.54 --> 1308.24] of righteousness -[1308.24 --> 1309.42] and he -[1309.42 --> 1309.88] mentions -[1309.88 --> 1310.40] judgment -[1310.40 --> 1310.92] but what -[1310.92 --> 1312.06] Jesus means -[1312.06 --> 1312.82] is and -[1312.82 --> 1313.42] freedom -[1313.42 --> 1314.60] from eternal -[1314.60 --> 1315.10] judgment -[1315.10 --> 1318.28] when the -[1318.28 --> 1319.36] spirit convicts -[1319.36 --> 1320.04] us that we -[1320.04 --> 1321.10] are no longer -[1321.10 --> 1321.78] under the -[1321.78 --> 1322.48] judgment of -[1322.48 --> 1322.88] God -[1322.88 --> 1323.76] that's the -[1323.76 --> 1324.40] same as -[1324.40 --> 1325.30] believing that -[1325.30 --> 1326.10] our salvation -[1326.10 --> 1327.36] comes completely -[1327.36 --> 1328.92] in Christ -[1328.92 --> 1331.34] the spirit -[1331.34 --> 1332.58] convicting us -[1332.58 --> 1333.34] of sin -[1333.34 --> 1334.08] relates to -[1334.08 --> 1334.88] Paul saying -[1334.88 --> 1335.30] that the -[1335.30 --> 1336.04] scriptures are -[1336.04 --> 1336.92] meant for -[1336.92 --> 1338.40] rebuking and -[1338.40 --> 1339.04] correcting -[1339.04 --> 1341.64] and the -[1341.64 --> 1342.68] spirit convicting -[1342.68 --> 1343.28] us of -[1343.28 --> 1344.22] righteousness -[1344.22 --> 1345.50] relates to -[1345.50 --> 1346.08] how as he -[1346.08 --> 1346.60] says the -[1346.60 --> 1348.12] scriptures are -[1348.12 --> 1348.94] there to -[1348.94 --> 1349.94] train us -[1349.94 --> 1351.44] in righteousness -[1351.44 --> 1352.74] so we can -[1352.74 --> 1353.24] live this -[1353.24 --> 1354.18] mature life -[1354.18 --> 1356.52] by the way -[1356.52 --> 1357.58] I think this -[1357.58 --> 1358.24] is also the -[1358.24 --> 1359.00] three parts of -[1359.00 --> 1359.60] the Heidelberg -[1359.60 --> 1360.36] Catechism -[1360.36 --> 1362.68] the three things -[1362.68 --> 1363.30] we need to -[1363.30 --> 1363.62] know -[1363.62 --> 1365.20] how great our -[1365.20 --> 1365.96] sin is -[1365.96 --> 1367.34] how great our -[1367.34 --> 1368.22] redemption is -[1368.22 --> 1368.92] the order is a -[1368.92 --> 1369.38] little different -[1369.38 --> 1370.96] and how we can -[1370.96 --> 1371.88] say thank you to -[1371.88 --> 1372.62] God through a -[1372.62 --> 1373.60] life of obedience -[1373.60 --> 1374.76] through all that -[1374.76 --> 1375.38] he's done for -[1375.38 --> 1377.54] us and these -[1377.54 --> 1378.46] three things -[1378.46 --> 1380.38] give us three -[1380.38 --> 1381.72] reasons to -[1381.72 --> 1383.02] read the -[1383.02 --> 1385.30] Bible the -[1385.30 --> 1386.34] first reason -[1386.34 --> 1387.30] is to help -[1387.30 --> 1388.48] us to know -[1388.48 --> 1389.94] how we may be -[1389.94 --> 1391.58] saved through -[1391.58 --> 1392.42] our Lord Jesus -[1392.42 --> 1394.50] Christ and -[1394.50 --> 1395.48] you know we -[1395.48 --> 1396.26] can say once -[1396.26 --> 1397.22] saved but we -[1397.22 --> 1397.94] need this -[1397.94 --> 1398.70] assurance -[1398.70 --> 1399.88] virtually -[1399.88 --> 1401.44] every day -[1401.44 --> 1404.34] to know -[1404.34 --> 1404.82] again I'm -[1404.82 --> 1405.48] loved by -[1405.48 --> 1405.90] God -[1405.90 --> 1407.98] and when you -[1407.98 --> 1408.40] read through -[1408.40 --> 1409.00] the scriptures -[1409.00 --> 1410.76] it will confirm -[1410.76 --> 1412.24] that to your -[1412.24 --> 1412.62] soul -[1412.62 --> 1414.54] because we'll -[1414.54 --> 1414.98] know the -[1414.98 --> 1415.68] spirit is at -[1415.68 --> 1416.78] work you can -[1416.78 --> 1417.88] know it if you -[1417.88 --> 1418.54] read through the -[1418.54 --> 1418.92] Bible -[1418.92 --> 1420.94] and your -[1420.94 --> 1422.16] your head's -[1422.16 --> 1422.64] nodding -[1422.64 --> 1425.50] you read -[1425.50 --> 1425.98] through some -[1425.98 --> 1426.72] of the stories -[1426.72 --> 1427.28] and you hear -[1427.28 --> 1428.14] what Paul says -[1428.14 --> 1429.06] in some places -[1429.06 --> 1429.76] in the scriptures -[1429.76 --> 1430.42] and your heart -[1430.42 --> 1431.14] starts beating -[1431.14 --> 1432.02] faster and -[1432.02 --> 1433.62] faster as it -[1433.62 --> 1434.28] were your eyes -[1434.28 --> 1434.84] start getting -[1434.84 --> 1437.02] bigger that's -[1437.02 --> 1438.14] confirmation that -[1438.14 --> 1438.80] you and God -[1438.80 --> 1440.84] are in sync and -[1440.84 --> 1441.50] that he's working -[1441.50 --> 1441.98] through his -[1441.98 --> 1442.62] spirit his -[1442.62 --> 1443.44] salvation in -[1443.44 --> 1445.16] your soul gives -[1445.16 --> 1445.92] you reason for -[1445.92 --> 1448.22] joy like a big -[1448.22 --> 1450.44] love letter God -[1450.44 --> 1451.56] saying to us how -[1451.56 --> 1452.34] much he cares -[1452.34 --> 1453.16] about us -[1453.16 --> 1455.94] my wife Lynn -[1455.94 --> 1457.10] and I we did -[1457.10 --> 1457.70] most of our -[1457.70 --> 1458.36] courting by -[1458.36 --> 1459.54] distance I -[1459.54 --> 1459.90] was at -[1459.90 --> 1461.44] Dort College -[1461.44 --> 1462.70] in Iowa and -[1462.70 --> 1464.46] she was in -[1464.46 --> 1465.82] Winnipeg I -[1465.82 --> 1466.26] could hardly -[1466.26 --> 1466.84] wait to get -[1466.84 --> 1467.46] those letters -[1467.46 --> 1469.12] I was so -[1469.12 --> 1469.96] excited I'd go -[1469.96 --> 1470.86] alone and I'd -[1470.86 --> 1473.20] read them I -[1473.20 --> 1474.40] just soak it -[1474.40 --> 1476.08] in let what -[1476.08 --> 1476.64] she wrote -[1476.64 --> 1477.70] penetrate -[1477.70 --> 1481.26] and sometimes -[1481.26 --> 1481.84] I'd read them -[1481.84 --> 1482.56] more than once -[1482.56 --> 1485.24] that's how we're -[1485.24 --> 1485.80] meant to read -[1485.80 --> 1487.56] scripture it's a -[1487.56 --> 1488.08] love letter -[1488.08 --> 1490.96] reminding us of -[1490.96 --> 1491.86] who God is for -[1491.86 --> 1492.54] us second -[1492.54 --> 1493.40] reason is to -[1493.40 --> 1494.22] see our sin -[1494.22 --> 1494.80] and short -[1494.80 --> 1495.44] comings -[1495.44 --> 1497.58] that's the -[1497.58 --> 1498.88] rebuking the -[1498.88 --> 1500.66] correcting we -[1500.66 --> 1501.30] don't like that -[1501.30 --> 1502.78] today to -[1502.78 --> 1503.84] rebuke and -[1503.84 --> 1505.50] correct I -[1505.50 --> 1505.96] think that's -[1505.96 --> 1506.92] being negative -[1506.92 --> 1508.84] turns people -[1508.84 --> 1509.28] away -[1509.28 --> 1512.56] well let me -[1512.56 --> 1513.30] assure you we -[1513.30 --> 1514.08] wouldn't have to -[1514.08 --> 1514.94] do much of it -[1514.94 --> 1516.08] if people would -[1516.08 --> 1516.98] practice the -[1516.98 --> 1517.68] discipline of -[1517.68 --> 1518.26] reading the -[1518.26 --> 1519.04] scripture because -[1519.04 --> 1520.28] the spirit would -[1520.28 --> 1521.12] simply get the -[1521.12 --> 1521.78] job done -[1521.78 --> 1523.98] the spirit's -[1523.98 --> 1524.56] actually very -[1524.56 --> 1525.02] good at -[1525.02 --> 1526.00] convicting people -[1526.00 --> 1526.52] of sin -[1526.52 --> 1527.98] it's part of -[1527.98 --> 1529.08] his job -[1529.08 --> 1529.72] maybe the -[1529.72 --> 1530.64] primary one -[1530.64 --> 1533.30] see the word -[1533.30 --> 1533.94] of God is -[1533.94 --> 1534.74] the sword -[1534.74 --> 1535.88] of the spirit -[1535.88 --> 1537.34] it cuts -[1537.34 --> 1538.72] to the heart -[1538.72 --> 1540.80] convicts us -[1540.80 --> 1541.72] when we've -[1541.72 --> 1542.50] done wrong -[1542.50 --> 1544.54] points us -[1544.54 --> 1545.16] back in the -[1545.16 --> 1546.42] right way -[1546.42 --> 1549.14] Jesus said -[1549.14 --> 1549.46] to his -[1549.46 --> 1550.26] disciples in -[1550.26 --> 1550.96] John 15 -[1550.96 --> 1551.58] that you have -[1551.58 --> 1552.78] become clean -[1552.78 --> 1554.14] because of -[1554.14 --> 1554.60] what I've -[1554.60 --> 1555.52] spoken to -[1555.52 --> 1555.90] you -[1555.90 --> 1558.72] and then he -[1558.72 --> 1559.38] went on to -[1559.38 --> 1559.66] pray -[1559.66 --> 1560.30] father that -[1560.30 --> 1560.62] you would -[1560.62 --> 1562.00] sanctify them -[1562.00 --> 1563.04] by your -[1563.04 --> 1563.92] truth and -[1563.92 --> 1564.28] then he -[1564.28 --> 1564.98] added your -[1564.98 --> 1566.38] word is -[1566.38 --> 1566.98] truth -[1566.98 --> 1569.80] God's word -[1569.80 --> 1570.24] is a -[1570.24 --> 1570.98] purifier -[1570.98 --> 1572.84] it's his -[1572.84 --> 1573.90] central means -[1573.90 --> 1575.10] really to -[1575.10 --> 1575.60] make you -[1575.60 --> 1575.94] and me -[1575.94 --> 1576.40] holy -[1576.40 --> 1578.54] and if we -[1578.54 --> 1578.96] have any -[1578.96 --> 1579.62] desire to -[1579.62 --> 1580.32] become like -[1580.32 --> 1580.98] Christ we -[1580.98 --> 1581.74] must be -[1581.74 --> 1582.64] students of -[1582.64 --> 1582.98] the word -[1582.98 --> 1583.44] of God -[1583.44 --> 1586.46] you simply -[1586.46 --> 1587.48] cannot graduate -[1587.48 --> 1588.86] from a -[1588.86 --> 1589.80] university or -[1589.80 --> 1590.30] from some -[1590.30 --> 1591.38] classes until -[1591.38 --> 1591.98] you've done -[1591.98 --> 1593.40] the required -[1593.40 --> 1594.38] reading -[1594.38 --> 1596.66] and we -[1596.66 --> 1597.76] cannot be -[1597.76 --> 1599.32] apprentices in -[1599.32 --> 1600.12] the school of -[1600.12 --> 1601.20] Christ if we -[1601.20 --> 1602.24] do not spend -[1602.24 --> 1603.76] concentrated time -[1603.76 --> 1604.46] in the -[1604.46 --> 1604.80] scriptures -[1604.80 --> 1609.20] so the -[1609.20 --> 1609.86] Bible helps -[1609.86 --> 1611.16] us know -[1611.16 --> 1611.98] we're saved -[1611.98 --> 1612.58] and loved -[1612.58 --> 1613.26] but it also -[1613.26 --> 1613.96] does this -[1613.96 --> 1615.42] job of -[1615.42 --> 1616.22] pointing out -[1616.22 --> 1616.78] our sin -[1616.78 --> 1617.56] and thirdly -[1617.56 --> 1618.12] it teaches -[1618.12 --> 1619.48] us how -[1619.48 --> 1620.14] to obey -[1620.14 --> 1622.80] it's God -[1622.80 --> 1623.66] breathed so -[1623.66 --> 1624.42] we can be -[1624.42 --> 1625.90] trained to -[1625.90 --> 1626.80] be righteous -[1626.80 --> 1628.62] it's filled -[1628.62 --> 1629.10] with all -[1629.10 --> 1629.86] kinds of -[1629.86 --> 1630.94] practical advice -[1630.94 --> 1631.86] stories and -[1631.86 --> 1632.72] teachings that -[1632.72 --> 1633.78] cover the -[1633.78 --> 1634.92] full gamut -[1634.92 --> 1635.58] of life -[1635.58 --> 1636.76] stuff that -[1636.76 --> 1637.26] you don't want -[1637.26 --> 1637.94] to talk about -[1637.94 --> 1638.58] in public -[1638.58 --> 1639.00] or there -[1639.00 --> 1641.46] we can -[1641.46 --> 1641.94] learn from -[1641.94 --> 1642.68] the mistakes -[1642.68 --> 1643.40] of many -[1643.40 --> 1643.80] in that -[1643.80 --> 1644.98] book and -[1644.98 --> 1645.52] be guided -[1645.52 --> 1646.02] by the -[1646.02 --> 1647.66] wisdom of -[1647.66 --> 1648.10] others -[1648.10 --> 1650.06] and no -[1650.06 --> 1650.52] matter how -[1650.52 --> 1651.12] many times -[1651.12 --> 1651.50] you read -[1651.50 --> 1651.78] it you -[1651.78 --> 1652.58] keep learning -[1652.58 --> 1655.36] see things -[1655.36 --> 1655.80] you didn't -[1655.80 --> 1656.34] before -[1656.34 --> 1658.12] so that in -[1658.12 --> 1658.70] the end we -[1658.70 --> 1659.06] may be -[1659.06 --> 1659.66] thoroughly -[1659.66 --> 1660.50] equipped -[1660.50 --> 1662.12] for every -[1662.12 --> 1662.76] good work -[1662.76 --> 1663.40] and thoroughly -[1663.40 --> 1664.28] equipped means -[1664.28 --> 1665.30] really mature -[1665.30 --> 1666.06] complete -[1666.06 --> 1667.90] as we said -[1667.90 --> 1668.34] earlier -[1668.34 --> 1669.06] some have -[1669.06 --> 1669.56] described -[1669.56 --> 1671.94] the result -[1671.94 --> 1672.72] of spiritual -[1672.72 --> 1673.36] disciplines -[1673.36 --> 1673.90] is to be -[1673.90 --> 1674.48] to do the -[1674.48 --> 1675.12] right thing -[1675.12 --> 1675.48] at the -[1675.48 --> 1676.26] right time -[1676.26 --> 1676.62] in the -[1676.62 --> 1677.26] right way -[1677.26 --> 1678.16] and in -[1678.16 --> 1678.58] the right -[1678.58 --> 1679.14] spirit -[1679.14 --> 1682.48] and this -[1682.48 --> 1682.88] is why -[1682.88 --> 1683.34] we must -[1683.34 --> 1683.78] read the -[1683.78 --> 1684.16] Bible -[1684.16 --> 1687.12] and let it -[1687.12 --> 1687.92] penetrate -[1687.92 --> 1688.28] it -[1688.28 --> 1690.20] Elizabeth -[1690.20 --> 1690.66] Haley -[1690.66 --> 1691.18] Barton -[1691.18 --> 1691.96] in her -[1691.96 --> 1692.22] book -[1692.22 --> 1692.70] Sacred -[1692.70 --> 1693.22] Rhythms -[1693.22 --> 1695.62] says the -[1695.62 --> 1696.28] scriptures have -[1696.28 --> 1696.98] been given to -[1696.98 --> 1697.90] allow my own -[1697.90 --> 1699.32] heart and soul -[1699.32 --> 1701.04] to be penetrated -[1701.04 --> 1702.10] by an intimate -[1702.10 --> 1703.34] word from -[1703.34 --> 1703.74] God -[1703.74 --> 1707.22] we get into -[1707.22 --> 1707.78] the word -[1707.78 --> 1709.30] so it can get -[1709.30 --> 1710.02] into us -[1710.02 --> 1712.70] and quite -[1712.70 --> 1713.28] frankly -[1713.28 --> 1714.66] how you do -[1714.66 --> 1714.94] it -[1714.94 --> 1716.88] doesn't matter -[1716.88 --> 1717.80] all that much -[1717.80 --> 1719.68] that you do -[1719.68 --> 1719.96] it -[1719.96 --> 1721.44] doesn't matter -[1721.44 --> 1722.36] how you exercise -[1722.36 --> 1723.88] just exercise -[1723.88 --> 1725.22] find a way -[1725.22 --> 1726.98] it's like any -[1726.98 --> 1727.64] relationship -[1727.64 --> 1728.96] young men and -[1728.96 --> 1729.62] women get pretty -[1729.62 --> 1730.38] creative when they -[1730.38 --> 1731.00] want to develop -[1731.00 --> 1731.58] a relationship -[1731.58 --> 1732.98] they find a way -[1732.98 --> 1733.72] to get together -[1733.72 --> 1734.50] and they learn -[1734.50 --> 1735.36] how to communicate -[1735.36 --> 1736.82] and it's no -[1736.82 --> 1737.38] different with -[1737.38 --> 1737.76] God -[1737.76 --> 1740.00] simply pick a -[1740.00 --> 1740.56] time -[1740.56 --> 1742.04] and usually -[1742.04 --> 1743.04] a place -[1743.04 --> 1744.70] call it a -[1744.70 --> 1745.12] date -[1745.12 --> 1748.12] and then -[1748.12 --> 1749.92] become -[1749.92 --> 1750.62] disciplined -[1750.62 --> 1755.40] if you're -[1755.40 --> 1755.80] unfamiliar -[1755.80 --> 1756.36] with the -[1756.36 --> 1756.68] Bible -[1756.68 --> 1757.36] you may want -[1757.36 --> 1757.74] to start -[1757.74 --> 1758.06] with the -[1758.06 --> 1758.64] Gospel of -[1758.64 --> 1758.98] John -[1758.98 --> 1759.26] and you -[1759.26 --> 1759.46] know -[1759.46 --> 1759.72] one -[1759.72 --> 1760.72] talked to -[1760.72 --> 1761.06] Nicky -[1761.06 --> 1761.48] Gumbel -[1761.48 --> 1762.64] some of you -[1762.64 --> 1762.98] may know -[1762.98 --> 1763.30] of him -[1763.30 --> 1766.04] he was a -[1766.04 --> 1766.36] lawyer -[1766.36 --> 1767.18] somebody -[1767.18 --> 1767.84] challenged him -[1767.84 --> 1768.28] when he sat -[1768.28 --> 1768.70] down and -[1768.70 --> 1769.30] started reading -[1769.30 --> 1769.72] the Bible -[1769.72 --> 1770.30] one night -[1770.30 --> 1772.50] and you -[1772.50 --> 1772.84] read the -[1772.84 --> 1773.08] Bible -[1773.08 --> 1773.52] like a -[1773.52 --> 1773.84] novel -[1773.84 --> 1774.90] just sit -[1774.90 --> 1775.10] down -[1775.10 --> 1775.40] and read -[1775.40 --> 1775.68] one of -[1775.68 --> 1776.40] the Gospels -[1776.40 --> 1777.36] first time -[1777.36 --> 1777.66] I did -[1777.66 --> 1777.84] that -[1777.84 --> 1778.04] I was -[1778.04 --> 1778.16] in -[1778.16 --> 1778.68] seminary -[1778.68 --> 1779.00] I was -[1779.00 --> 1779.42] supposed -[1779.42 --> 1780.04] to be -[1780.04 --> 1780.56] a student -[1780.56 --> 1781.40] required -[1781.40 --> 1781.88] reading -[1781.88 --> 1783.62] what an -[1783.62 --> 1784.08] impact -[1784.08 --> 1784.78] reading -[1784.78 --> 1785.44] the Gospel -[1785.44 --> 1786.32] a Gospel -[1786.32 --> 1786.68] through -[1786.68 --> 1787.28] in one -[1787.28 --> 1787.74] setting -[1787.74 --> 1788.40] do it -[1788.40 --> 1788.60] some -[1788.60 --> 1789.02] evening -[1789.02 --> 1789.96] it'll -[1789.96 --> 1790.46] immerse -[1790.46 --> 1790.64] you -[1790.64 --> 1790.90] in the -[1790.90 --> 1791.14] life -[1791.14 --> 1791.36] of -[1791.36 --> 1791.90] Jesus -[1791.90 --> 1792.84] it's -[1792.84 --> 1793.04] one -[1793.04 --> 1793.38] way -[1793.38 --> 1795.06] some -[1795.06 --> 1795.44] follow -[1795.44 --> 1795.88] Bible -[1795.88 --> 1796.20] in a -[1796.20 --> 1796.48] year -[1796.48 --> 1798.00] some -[1798.00 --> 1798.32] take -[1798.32 --> 1798.64] very -[1798.64 --> 1799.18] small -[1799.18 --> 1799.78] amounts -[1799.78 --> 1801.82] it's -[1801.82 --> 1802.30] called -[1802.30 --> 1803.22] Lectio -[1803.22 --> 1803.70] Divina -[1803.70 --> 1804.42] is a -[1804.42 --> 1804.72] way -[1804.72 --> 1805.68] it really -[1805.68 --> 1806.50] means to -[1806.50 --> 1807.78] meditate -[1807.78 --> 1810.70] like a -[1810.70 --> 1812.82] I read -[1812.82 --> 1813.92] the analogy -[1813.92 --> 1815.06] of a dog -[1815.06 --> 1815.64] with a bone -[1815.64 --> 1816.62] you ever see a dog -[1816.62 --> 1817.56] finds a bone -[1817.56 --> 1819.18] it's chewing -[1819.18 --> 1820.32] it's absolutely -[1820.32 --> 1822.00] you get into -[1822.00 --> 1822.78] a passage -[1822.78 --> 1823.58] of scripture -[1823.58 --> 1826.38] you just chew -[1826.38 --> 1827.30] away on it -[1827.30 --> 1829.52] and you let -[1829.52 --> 1830.22] it get into -[1830.22 --> 1830.54] you -[1830.54 --> 1831.56] and you say -[1831.56 --> 1831.88] Lord -[1831.88 --> 1832.94] what does this -[1832.94 --> 1833.28] mean -[1833.28 --> 1833.82] and you read -[1833.82 --> 1834.30] it again -[1834.30 --> 1834.96] how might you -[1834.96 --> 1835.52] be speaking -[1835.52 --> 1836.34] into my life -[1836.34 --> 1836.74] and you read -[1836.74 --> 1837.04] it again -[1837.04 --> 1837.30] Lord -[1837.30 --> 1838.10] what are you -[1838.10 --> 1838.80] asking me -[1838.80 --> 1839.16] to do -[1839.16 --> 1839.72] this day -[1839.72 --> 1840.44] out of this -[1840.44 --> 1840.88] passage -[1840.88 --> 1841.42] that's what -[1841.42 --> 1842.56] Lectio Divina -[1842.56 --> 1843.06] is really -[1843.06 --> 1843.56] meant to -[1843.56 --> 1844.04] help us -[1844.04 --> 1844.26] do -[1844.26 --> 1844.70] and if you -[1844.70 --> 1844.92] want -[1844.92 --> 1845.34] you google -[1845.34 --> 1845.58] it -[1845.58 --> 1845.90] and you'll -[1845.90 --> 1847.16] find ways -[1847.16 --> 1848.14] to meditate -[1848.14 --> 1849.30] on a smaller -[1849.30 --> 1850.18] passage of -[1850.18 --> 1850.36] scripture -[1850.36 --> 1851.10] there's all -[1851.10 --> 1851.74] kinds of -[1851.74 --> 1852.14] ways -[1852.14 --> 1853.84] and listen -[1853.84 --> 1854.22] to it -[1854.22 --> 1855.00] on a CD -[1855.00 --> 1857.42] and listen -[1857.42 --> 1857.76] to it -[1857.76 --> 1858.12] when you're -[1858.12 --> 1858.62] traveling -[1858.62 --> 1860.12] and listen -[1860.12 --> 1860.64] to it -[1860.64 --> 1861.32] quietly -[1861.32 --> 1861.96] at night -[1861.96 --> 1863.08] you can -[1863.08 --> 1863.64] read it -[1863.64 --> 1865.70] I think -[1865.70 --> 1866.22] we've gotten -[1866.22 --> 1866.62] away -[1866.62 --> 1867.00] but we -[1867.00 --> 1867.40] haven't -[1867.40 --> 1867.72] in our -[1867.72 --> 1868.02] house -[1868.02 --> 1868.52] but we -[1868.52 --> 1868.84] still -[1868.84 --> 1869.22] read it -[1869.22 --> 1869.76] at most -[1869.76 --> 1870.32] supper -[1870.32 --> 1870.86] times -[1870.86 --> 1871.52] or meal -[1871.52 --> 1872.12] times -[1872.12 --> 1872.98] a passage -[1872.98 --> 1874.72] we have -[1874.72 --> 1875.20] our own -[1875.20 --> 1876.00] ways -[1876.00 --> 1876.46] of doing -[1876.46 --> 1876.74] this -[1876.74 --> 1877.22] my own -[1877.22 --> 1877.68] personal -[1877.68 --> 1878.90] discipline -[1878.90 --> 1879.28] at this -[1879.28 --> 1879.66] point -[1879.66 --> 1880.22] in time -[1880.22 --> 1880.60] is to -[1880.60 --> 1880.96] read -[1880.96 --> 1881.78] a minimum -[1881.78 --> 1882.32] of two -[1882.32 --> 1882.96] chapters -[1882.96 --> 1883.48] old -[1883.48 --> 1883.94] testament -[1883.94 --> 1884.42] and new -[1884.42 --> 1884.72] every -[1884.72 --> 1885.20] morning -[1885.20 --> 1887.10] it's -[1887.10 --> 1887.54] amazing -[1887.54 --> 1887.80] what -[1887.80 --> 1888.10] comes -[1888.10 --> 1888.50] up -[1888.50 --> 1890.64] it's -[1890.64 --> 1890.84] really -[1890.84 --> 1891.22] how I -[1891.22 --> 1891.66] came to -[1891.66 --> 1891.94] faith -[1891.94 --> 1892.30] I would -[1892.30 --> 1892.52] say -[1892.52 --> 1892.82] I was -[1892.82 --> 1893.32] challenged -[1893.32 --> 1893.74] as a -[1893.74 --> 1893.98] kid -[1893.98 --> 1895.04] by a -[1895.04 --> 1895.24] fellow -[1895.24 --> 1895.48] in -[1895.48 --> 1896.04] Ontario -[1896.04 --> 1896.32] in -[1896.32 --> 1896.62] some -[1896.62 --> 1897.26] magazine -[1897.26 --> 1897.58] I think -[1897.58 --> 1897.92] it was -[1897.92 --> 1898.68] through -[1898.68 --> 1898.90] the -[1898.90 --> 1899.86] used to -[1899.86 --> 1900.24] be called -[1900.24 --> 1900.58] Uncle -[1900.58 --> 1900.90] Bill -[1900.90 --> 1901.38] and it -[1901.38 --> 1901.68] was a -[1901.68 --> 1902.06] challenge -[1902.06 --> 1902.48] to read -[1902.48 --> 1902.64] the -[1902.64 --> 1902.94] Bible -[1902.94 --> 1903.24] and if -[1903.24 --> 1903.48] you did -[1903.48 --> 1903.60] it -[1903.60 --> 1903.86] for a -[1903.86 --> 1904.06] year -[1904.06 --> 1904.22] you -[1904.22 --> 1904.42] got -[1904.42 --> 1904.58] a -[1904.58 --> 1905.06] certificate -[1905.06 --> 1906.56] I -[1906.56 --> 1906.72] did -[1906.72 --> 1906.84] it -[1906.84 --> 1906.96] for -[1906.96 --> 1907.32] three -[1907.32 --> 1907.68] years -[1907.68 --> 1908.04] minus -[1908.04 --> 1908.42] one -[1908.42 --> 1908.72] night -[1908.72 --> 1908.92] I -[1908.92 --> 1909.28] remember -[1909.28 --> 1909.48] the -[1909.48 --> 1909.66] night -[1909.66 --> 1909.84] we -[1909.84 --> 1910.00] were -[1910.00 --> 1910.38] camping -[1910.38 --> 1910.66] up -[1910.66 --> 1910.86] in -[1910.86 --> 1911.70] Houston -[1911.70 --> 1911.98] with -[1911.98 --> 1912.16] my -[1912.16 --> 1912.46] brother -[1912.46 --> 1912.86] and a -[1912.86 --> 1913.20] friend -[1913.20 --> 1914.26] and I -[1914.26 --> 1914.52] remember -[1914.52 --> 1914.86] it was -[1914.86 --> 1915.16] late -[1915.16 --> 1915.36] and I -[1915.36 --> 1915.56] suddenly -[1915.56 --> 1915.92] oh -[1915.92 --> 1916.62] crap -[1916.62 --> 1916.78] I -[1916.78 --> 1917.04] didn't -[1917.04 --> 1917.28] read -[1917.28 --> 1917.42] the -[1917.42 --> 1917.66] Bible -[1917.66 --> 1918.02] today -[1918.02 --> 1918.70] well you -[1918.70 --> 1919.08] can get -[1919.08 --> 1919.42] a little -[1919.42 --> 1920.20] hypocritical -[1920.20 --> 1920.60] and self -[1920.60 --> 1920.94] righteous -[1920.94 --> 1921.52] about all -[1921.52 --> 1921.68] that -[1921.68 --> 1922.02] but you -[1922.02 --> 1922.14] know -[1922.14 --> 1922.34] the -[1922.34 --> 1922.84] discipline -[1922.84 --> 1923.34] of doing -[1923.34 --> 1923.54] it -[1923.54 --> 1923.88] for -[1923.88 --> 1924.24] three -[1924.24 --> 1924.56] years -[1924.56 --> 1925.02] changed -[1925.02 --> 1925.24] my -[1925.24 --> 1925.66] life -[1925.66 --> 1928.28] doesn't -[1928.28 --> 1928.60] have to -[1928.60 --> 1928.74] be -[1928.74 --> 1929.12] much -[1929.12 --> 1931.78] in -[1931.78 --> 1931.96] the -[1931.96 --> 1932.46] end -[1932.46 --> 1932.94] what we -[1932.94 --> 1933.18] need -[1933.18 --> 1933.34] to -[1933.34 --> 1933.88] become -[1933.88 --> 1934.52] is -[1934.52 --> 1935.38] individuals -[1935.38 --> 1936.62] who -[1936.62 --> 1936.88] have a -[1936.88 --> 1937.32] passion -[1937.32 --> 1937.62] for -[1937.62 --> 1938.08] Christ -[1938.08 --> 1938.42] and we -[1938.42 --> 1938.82] want to -[1938.82 --> 1939.00] know -[1939.00 --> 1939.38] more -[1939.38 --> 1940.22] and we -[1940.22 --> 1940.54] must -[1940.54 --> 1940.98] become -[1940.98 --> 1941.36] what we -[1941.36 --> 1941.54] could -[1941.54 --> 1941.94] call -[1941.94 --> 1942.94] self -[1942.94 --> 1944.44] feeders -[1944.44 --> 1947.70] and I -[1947.70 --> 1948.00] think this -[1948.00 --> 1948.52] is appropriate -[1948.52 --> 1949.04] in days -[1949.04 --> 1949.58] of COVID -[1949.58 --> 1950.68] self -[1950.68 --> 1951.16] feeders -[1951.16 --> 1951.62] who are -[1951.62 --> 1952.00] not -[1952.00 --> 1952.82] reliant -[1952.82 --> 1953.32] on the -[1953.32 --> 1953.60] church -[1953.60 --> 1953.84] I'm -[1953.84 --> 1954.08] actually -[1954.08 --> 1954.40] quite -[1954.40 --> 1954.86] concerned -[1954.86 --> 1956.20] I'm -[1956.20 --> 1956.44] seeing -[1956.44 --> 1956.78] people -[1956.78 --> 1957.00] I -[1957.00 --> 1957.22] think -[1957.22 --> 1957.78] kind -[1957.78 --> 1957.88] of -[1957.88 --> 1958.18] happy -[1958.18 --> 1958.40] they -[1958.40 --> 1958.58] can -[1958.58 --> 1958.80] take -[1958.80 --> 1959.18] distance -[1959.18 --> 1959.40] with -[1959.40 --> 1959.56] the -[1959.56 --> 1959.78] church -[1959.78 --> 1959.96] and -[1959.96 --> 1960.14] I'm -[1960.14 --> 1960.56] wondering -[1960.56 --> 1960.84] whether -[1960.84 --> 1961.12] that -[1961.12 --> 1961.44] means -[1961.44 --> 1962.02] they -[1962.02 --> 1962.40] think -[1962.40 --> 1962.60] they -[1962.60 --> 1962.82] can -[1962.82 --> 1963.08] take -[1963.08 --> 1963.50] distance -[1963.50 --> 1963.76] from -[1963.76 --> 1963.98] the -[1963.98 --> 1964.34] Lord -[1964.34 --> 1969.38] because -[1969.38 --> 1969.88] if our -[1969.88 --> 1970.24] faith -[1970.24 --> 1970.44] is -[1970.44 --> 1971.02] reliant -[1971.02 --> 1971.36] on the -[1971.36 --> 1971.66] church -[1971.66 --> 1972.38] community -[1972.38 --> 1973.82] then we're -[1973.82 --> 1974.02] going to -[1974.02 --> 1974.30] be a -[1974.30 --> 1974.62] drag -[1974.62 --> 1975.28] on it -[1975.28 --> 1976.36] doesn't -[1976.36 --> 1976.66] mean we -[1976.66 --> 1976.90] shouldn't -[1976.90 --> 1977.14] be in -[1977.14 --> 1977.62] community -[1977.62 --> 1978.92] but if -[1978.92 --> 1979.34] we aren't -[1979.34 --> 1979.74] self -[1979.74 --> 1980.26] feeders -[1980.26 --> 1980.60] who know -[1980.60 --> 1980.92] how to -[1980.92 --> 1981.36] care for -[1981.36 --> 1981.72] our own -[1981.72 --> 1982.02] soul -[1982.02 --> 1982.32] they used -[1982.32 --> 1982.64] to say -[1982.64 --> 1983.26] this to -[1983.26 --> 1983.74] people in -[1983.74 --> 1984.20] profession -[1984.20 --> 1984.68] of faith -[1984.68 --> 1985.14] class -[1985.14 --> 1985.82] are you -[1985.82 --> 1986.28] the kind -[1986.28 --> 1986.74] of person -[1986.74 --> 1987.04] who if -[1987.04 --> 1987.32] you get -[1987.32 --> 1987.84] stranded -[1987.84 --> 1988.28] on an -[1988.28 --> 1988.50] island -[1988.50 --> 1989.00] someday -[1989.00 --> 1989.64] and there's -[1989.64 --> 1990.12] only four -[1990.12 --> 1990.62] other people -[1990.62 --> 1990.84] and they're -[1990.84 --> 1991.42] not believers -[1991.42 --> 1992.00] you're -[1992.00 --> 1992.24] going to -[1992.24 --> 1992.68] hold on -[1992.68 --> 1992.98] to who -[1992.98 --> 1993.34] Jesus -[1993.34 --> 1993.66] is -[1993.66 --> 1994.16] because -[1994.16 --> 1994.50] you've -[1994.50 --> 1994.94] embedded -[1994.94 --> 1995.20] him -[1995.20 --> 1995.58] or he's -[1995.58 --> 1995.92] gotten -[1995.92 --> 1996.44] embedded -[1996.44 --> 1997.20] into your -[1997.20 --> 1997.80] soul -[1997.80 --> 1999.12] and your -[1999.12 --> 1999.90] mind -[1999.90 --> 2002.48] these are -[2002.48 --> 2003.06] the people -[2003.06 --> 2003.90] we need -[2003.90 --> 2004.36] to be -[2004.36 --> 2005.18] and then -[2005.18 --> 2005.64] we come -[2005.64 --> 2006.08] together -[2006.08 --> 2006.70] as church -[2006.70 --> 2007.28] and we're -[2007.28 --> 2007.92] strong -[2007.92 --> 2011.68] a grown -[2011.68 --> 2012.38] up child -[2012.38 --> 2013.32] isn't reliant -[2013.32 --> 2013.88] on mother -[2013.88 --> 2014.40] anymore -[2014.40 --> 2015.58] to be fed -[2015.58 --> 2016.60] and the -[2016.60 --> 2017.16] church is -[2017.16 --> 2017.48] in the -[2017.48 --> 2017.82] scriptures -[2017.82 --> 2018.40] called -[2018.40 --> 2019.40] the mother -[2019.40 --> 2020.38] we find -[2020.38 --> 2021.02] ways -[2021.02 --> 2021.52] to feed -[2021.52 --> 2021.74] our -[2021.74 --> 2022.26] soul -[2022.26 --> 2023.36] and then -[2023.36 --> 2023.76] we love -[2023.76 --> 2024.58] coming home -[2024.58 --> 2025.08] to mother -[2025.08 --> 2025.44] and the -[2025.44 --> 2025.82] family -[2025.82 --> 2026.50] where together -[2026.50 --> 2027.44] we feast -[2027.44 --> 2030.58] but in the -[2030.58 --> 2030.86] end -[2030.86 --> 2031.34] what we're -[2031.34 --> 2031.80] meant to -[2031.80 --> 2032.12] do -[2032.12 --> 2033.18] is to -[2033.18 --> 2033.74] find a -[2033.74 --> 2034.06] way -[2034.06 --> 2034.92] to relate -[2034.92 --> 2036.60] very deeply -[2036.60 --> 2037.44] and intimately -[2037.44 --> 2038.34] to Christ -[2038.34 --> 2040.68] so that -[2040.68 --> 2041.02] in the -[2041.02 --> 2041.38] end -[2041.38 --> 2042.88] we know -[2042.88 --> 2043.22] what it -[2043.22 --> 2043.52] is to -[2043.52 --> 2044.20] be saved -[2044.20 --> 2045.32] because we -[2045.32 --> 2045.70] know what -[2045.70 --> 2046.16] it is -[2046.16 --> 2047.18] we're -[2047.18 --> 2047.52] sinners -[2047.52 --> 2048.98] and we -[2048.98 --> 2049.90] find ways -[2049.90 --> 2050.56] to follow -[2050.56 --> 2050.86] our -[2050.86 --> 2051.20] Savior -[2051.20 --> 2052.40] and to -[2052.40 --> 2052.98] truly -[2052.98 --> 2054.10] live -[2054.10 --> 2055.94] pray with -[2055.94 --> 2056.12] me -[2056.12 --> 2056.40] God -[2056.40 --> 2056.94] thank you -[2056.94 --> 2057.24] you've -[2057.24 --> 2057.60] spoken -[2057.60 --> 2058.26] to us -[2058.26 --> 2060.16] and -[2060.16 --> 2061.24] we haven't -[2061.24 --> 2061.76] talked about -[2061.76 --> 2062.50] your creation -[2062.50 --> 2063.00] but it's -[2063.00 --> 2063.58] out there -[2063.58 --> 2063.98] just -[2063.98 --> 2064.82] blasting -[2064.82 --> 2065.32] away -[2065.32 --> 2065.86] the good -[2065.86 --> 2066.24] news -[2066.24 --> 2066.56] of how -[2066.56 --> 2066.94] great -[2066.94 --> 2067.16] and -[2067.16 --> 2067.96] powerful -[2067.96 --> 2068.62] you are -[2068.62 --> 2070.88] and you've -[2070.88 --> 2071.48] written things -[2071.48 --> 2072.28] down for us -[2072.28 --> 2072.94] to read -[2072.94 --> 2075.58] you've spoken -[2075.58 --> 2076.12] to us -[2076.12 --> 2076.76] in a wide -[2076.76 --> 2077.42] variety of -[2077.42 --> 2077.76] ways -[2077.76 --> 2078.08] and we -[2078.08 --> 2078.56] thank you -[2078.56 --> 2078.92] for the -[2078.92 --> 2079.30] prophets -[2079.30 --> 2079.98] and for the -[2079.98 --> 2080.34] writers -[2080.34 --> 2081.10] of your -[2081.10 --> 2081.44] word -[2081.44 --> 2081.92] and oh -[2081.92 --> 2082.22] God -[2082.22 --> 2082.94] help us -[2082.94 --> 2084.10] to submit -[2084.10 --> 2084.94] our minds -[2084.94 --> 2085.44] and our -[2085.44 --> 2085.94] souls -[2085.94 --> 2086.70] and our -[2086.70 --> 2087.40] bodies -[2087.40 --> 2088.32] to this -[2088.32 --> 2089.24] your living -[2089.24 --> 2089.74] word -[2089.74 --> 2091.20] but especially -[2091.20 --> 2092.28] in the end -[2092.28 --> 2092.94] help us to -[2092.94 --> 2093.40] see you -[2093.40 --> 2094.10] Lord Jesus -[2094.10 --> 2094.82] for who you -[2094.82 --> 2095.22] are -[2095.22 --> 2096.20] so that we -[2096.20 --> 2097.04] submit to -[2097.04 --> 2097.38] you -[2097.38 --> 2099.62] and now -[2099.62 --> 2100.16] we pray -[2100.16 --> 2100.82] that as we -[2100.82 --> 2101.76] turn to -[2101.76 --> 2102.52] the sacrament -[2102.52 --> 2103.58] another gift -[2103.58 --> 2104.14] that you -[2104.14 --> 2104.72] gave to -[2104.72 --> 2105.12] us -[2105.12 --> 2106.62] adhere to -[2106.62 --> 2108.78] we may -[2108.78 --> 2109.98] be encouraged -[2109.98 --> 2111.32] reminded of -[2111.32 --> 2111.96] who we are -[2111.96 --> 2112.48] in you -[2112.48 --> 2114.16] and encouraged -[2114.16 --> 2114.94] by your -[2114.94 --> 2115.54] grace -[2115.54 --> 2117.58] to pick up -[2117.58 --> 2118.02] again -[2118.02 --> 2119.26] carry on -[2119.26 --> 2120.20] and go -[2120.20 --> 2120.76] and serve -[2120.76 --> 2121.88] we pray -[2121.88 --> 2122.38] in Jesus -[2122.38 --> 2122.90] name -[2122.90 --> 2123.84] Amen diff --git "a/To Wed or not to Wed\357\274\237 (Sermon)_summary.txt" "b/To Wed or not to Wed\357\274\237 (Sermon)_summary.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index f9791f68338ee980a57678a1957dadba4652506e..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/To Wed or not to Wed\357\274\237 (Sermon)_summary.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,37 +0,0 @@ -• The speaker discusses the importance of relationships, particularly marriage and singleness in the Bible. -• The passage from 1 Corinthians 7 is read and discussed, focusing on Paul's advice for singles and married couples during a time of crisis. -• Paul advises against seeking to change one's marital status during times of turmoil, and instead encourages people to focus on their relationship with God. -• He also notes that an unmarried person has more freedom to devote themselves to the Lord, while a married person may be divided in their loyalties. -• The text concludes by saying that it is acceptable for someone who feels they should marry to do so, but also that those who choose not to marry are doing the right thing. -• The two extreme views on marriage discussed in books -• Defining singleness, virginity, and celibacy as distinct concepts -• Comparison between cultural view of singleness and the church's view -• Cultural pressure to marry and devaluation of singleness in Christianity -• Church's emphasis on marriage and potential undervaluing of singleness -• The church's view on singleness is often negative and sees it as a problem to be solved -• Paul's text in 1 Corinthians 7 presents an alternative view of singleness as a positive choice -• The context of the crisis mentioned by Paul in the text may be a famine or Christ's second coming -• Remaining single allows for greater focus on God without distraction during times of crisis -• Marriage is valued and ordained by God, but remaining single can be beneficial in certain circumstances -• Both Jesus and Paul teach that not all are called to get married, and some are specifically called to remain single. -• Marriage brings frivolous and genuine concerns that might impede devotion to God. -• Singleness can also impede one's ability to focus on their relationship with God if spent trying to find a partner. -• The challenge is to ask what is impeding ability to be fully devoted to God, regardless of marital status. -• Marital status should have no bearing on devotion to Christ; being active in faith is more important than relationship status. -• The church has a negative view of singleness as inferior to marriage. -• This narrative needs to change for single people not to feel like they're missing something from God. -• Single people can serve God and his kingdom in unique ways, and this should be celebrated by the church. -• Loneliness is a significant challenge faced by single people that the church must address. -• The church should provide a sense of family and community for its members, including singles. -• Singleness can be beneficial to one's life and to Christ's body, but the church generally views marriage more positively. -• The importance of prioritizing one's relationship with God over earthly relationships and circumstances -• Marriage is not a universal calling from God, but being devoted to Him is essential for all believers -• Singleness should be celebrated and supported in the church community -• Do not let relational status distract from devotion to God; instead, let that devotion enhance all relationships -• Be fully devoted to God, regardless of marital or economic status -• Recognize God's lordship and follow Him above all else -• Desiring to seek God first -• Responding in song -• Loving one another -• Praying for a desire to be imprinted on hearts -• Mention of Jesus (God's Son) and his name being used in prayer \ No newline at end of file diff --git "a/To Wed or not to Wed\357\274\237 (Sermon)_transcript.txt" "b/To Wed or not to Wed\357\274\237 (Sermon)_transcript.txt" deleted file mode 100644 index de50fc33e8cb2e2184689f7ecc447ab3cb0c60d9..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- "a/To Wed or not to Wed\357\274\237 (Sermon)_transcript.txt" +++ /dev/null @@ -1,614 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 5.24] It's good to be here with you all today. -[6.02 --> 10.06] We've been spending the last number of weeks in the book of Genesis, a lot of time in the -[10.06 --> 11.84] book of Genesis lately, and that's been great. -[12.30 --> 15.42] Pastor Bert Schlosser is leading us through a wonderful sermon series on Joseph. -[16.20 --> 20.46] But today I'd like to pivot and just take a break from Genesis for a service, and we're -[20.46 --> 22.00] going to look at the New Testament today. -[23.04 --> 26.70] One of the discussion points that dominates the conversations that I get to have with -[26.70 --> 30.74] young people in this church and in my job is relationships. -[31.86 --> 37.76] Relationships with parents, relationships with siblings, relationships with friends, and -[37.76 --> 40.24] believe it or not, relationships with spouses. -[41.88 --> 46.02] Marriage undergirds a lot of those conversations. -[47.08 --> 51.82] For many of us, especially adults, if not all of us adults, marriage is something that is -[51.82 --> 53.34] on the forefront of our minds. -[53.34 --> 56.96] Whether we are married and struggling in our marriage, or we're married and things -[56.96 --> 62.50] are going great and we're growing in our relationship, or if we are single and wondering what God has -[62.50 --> 65.70] in store for us and our marriage status. -[67.04 --> 70.34] There's a lot of passages in the Bible about marriage. -[71.54 --> 75.10] But what does the Bible say about being single? -[76.38 --> 78.48] Our text today is going to speak to that. -[78.48 --> 84.20] It comes from 1 Corinthians 7, verses 25 to 38, and we're going to read that in just a moment. -[84.28 --> 87.72] So please, if you've got your Bibles with you, if you're watching online, open them up right now, -[87.74 --> 89.80] and you can turn to 1 Corinthians 7 and read with me. -[90.00 --> 94.14] I love this passage, not just because of the topic that it preaches on or it teaches us on, -[94.44 --> 96.48] because I love the way that Paul writes. -[96.88 --> 100.68] And you'll see as we read this passage, it almost sounds a little bit awkward to our Western minds. -[100.72 --> 105.72] Like he's trying to, like, rephrase things over and over again, because he can't quite get what he wants to say out. -[105.72 --> 113.66] But in light of that, I find this passage so important, and there's so much truth that our churches right now need to hear. -[114.18 --> 117.30] And so please read this passage with me. -[117.36 --> 120.04] 1 Corinthians 7, 28 to 38, says this. -[121.46 --> 126.42] Now about virgins, which we will come to learn in a little bit, means the single person. -[126.98 --> 133.94] Now about virgins, I have no command from the Lord, but I give a judgment as one who by the Lord's mercy is trustworthy. -[133.94 --> 137.66] Because of the present crisis, we'll get back to that. -[137.72 --> 142.56] Because of the present crisis, I think that it is good for a man to remain as he is. -[143.10 --> 145.98] Are you pledged to a woman? Do not seek to be released. -[146.66 --> 150.26] Are you free from such commitment? Do not look for a wife. -[150.58 --> 152.60] But if you do marry, you have not sinned. -[152.72 --> 154.70] And if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. -[155.08 --> 158.26] But those who marry will face many troubles in this life. -[158.26 --> 159.52] And I want to spare you of this. -[160.10 --> 164.28] What I mean, brothers and sisters, is that the time is short. -[165.38 --> 168.68] From now on, those who have wives should live as if they do not. -[168.78 --> 170.70] Those who mourn as if they did not. -[170.98 --> 172.68] Those who are happy as if they were not. -[172.94 --> 175.64] Those who buy something as if it were not theirs to keep. -[175.92 --> 179.60] Those who use the things of this world as if not engrossed in them. -[180.30 --> 184.26] For this world, in its present form, is passing away. -[185.32 --> 186.48] Hold on to that as well. -[186.48 --> 189.72] I would like to free you from concern. -[190.82 --> 193.44] An unmarried man is concerned about the Lord's affairs. -[193.68 --> 195.24] How he can please the Lord. -[196.04 --> 199.04] But a married man is concerned about the affairs of this world. -[199.22 --> 200.60] How he can please his wife. -[201.00 --> 203.02] And his interests are divided. -[203.76 --> 205.74] Paul then uses the example again. -[206.60 --> 210.22] An unmarried woman or a virgin is concerned about the Lord's affairs. -[210.34 --> 213.46] Her aim is to be devoted to the Lord in both body and spirit. -[213.46 --> 217.50] But a married woman is concerned about the affairs of this world. -[217.88 --> 219.44] How she can please her husband. -[219.44 --> 222.40] I am saying this for your own good. -[222.40 --> 224.12] Not to restrict you. -[224.40 --> 231.14] But that you may live in a right way in undivided devotion to the Lord. -[232.88 --> 237.62] If anyone is worried that he might not be acting honorably toward the virgin he is engaged to. -[237.78 --> 239.30] And if his passions are too strong. -[239.40 --> 240.72] And he feels he ought to marry. -[241.12 --> 242.30] He should do as he wants. -[242.58 --> 243.76] He is not sinning. -[244.00 --> 245.06] They should get married. -[245.06 --> 248.74] But the man who has settled the matter in his own mind. -[248.86 --> 250.24] Who is under no compulsion. -[250.42 --> 252.08] But has control over his own will. -[252.26 --> 254.64] And who has made up his mind not to marry the virgin. -[255.84 --> 258.86] This man also does the right thing. -[260.30 --> 261.20] So then. -[262.06 --> 264.24] He who marries the virgin does right. -[265.24 --> 267.14] But he who does not marry her. -[267.92 --> 268.56] Does better. -[269.94 --> 270.94] The word of the Lord. -[272.32 --> 274.26] That is a fascinating text. -[274.34 --> 274.72] Isn't it? -[275.38 --> 275.82] Fascinating. -[276.84 --> 282.86] Now quality biblically based literature on the topic of Christian singleness is hard to find. -[282.96 --> 284.28] If you go to Indigo Books. -[284.52 --> 286.42] Or you search on Amazon.ca. -[286.94 --> 289.70] About books on being a Christian single. -[290.06 --> 292.46] You'll find that the subject seems to go one of two directions. -[293.42 --> 296.00] You're either going to find books that say that marriage is the worst. -[296.10 --> 297.98] And you should do everything in your way not to get married. -[298.28 --> 302.64] Or you're going to find a sort of meat market self-help book. -[302.64 --> 305.80] On quick and easy formulas to find that perfect mate. -[307.06 --> 308.42] The problem is. -[309.60 --> 312.44] Neither of those options really get to the heart. -[312.86 --> 314.62] Of what it means to be single. -[314.86 --> 315.92] And a Christ follower. -[315.92 --> 322.08] Now admittedly there's actually not a ton in the Bible on Christian singleness. -[322.56 --> 323.98] There's the passage we just read. -[324.46 --> 326.58] And there's a section in Matthew 19. -[326.90 --> 328.20] That actually talks about divorce. -[328.30 --> 329.84] But talks about singleness as well. -[329.98 --> 331.72] And we'll touch on that a little bit later. -[331.72 --> 336.18] But singleness is a very complex topic in the church. -[336.30 --> 340.40] And it's a focal point of many conversations that I personally have end up having. -[340.56 --> 344.94] So what does it mean to be single in the church today? -[346.48 --> 349.44] Is singleness desired by God? -[349.44 --> 353.84] Before we dig too deeply into these questions. -[353.84 --> 355.60] We need to define a few terms. -[355.78 --> 359.02] Now there's three words that I'd like to sort of solidify our understanding. -[359.16 --> 363.10] Or at least come to a conclusion or unanimous conclusion to what they mean. -[363.16 --> 364.14] Those three words are this. -[364.80 --> 365.90] Virginity or virgin. -[366.98 --> 368.26] Celibacy or celibate. -[368.98 --> 370.18] And single or singleness. -[371.24 --> 372.66] So virgin or virginity. -[372.80 --> 373.66] It's found in the Bible. -[373.74 --> 375.90] And it's often referencing women. -[376.06 --> 377.02] But also men. -[377.02 --> 382.36] And it's most often used in the Bible to qualify the unmarried person. -[383.02 --> 384.56] Like it does in our text today. -[385.72 --> 388.30] The word celibate or celibacy then. -[388.70 --> 393.40] Is a term that's used to describe someone who has chosen to remain single. -[393.86 --> 395.80] Now that posture of choice is very important. -[396.20 --> 399.08] If someone is celibate or they are practicing celibacy. -[399.28 --> 401.84] They have chosen to remain single. -[402.94 --> 405.86] To be single or singleness however. -[405.86 --> 408.14] Is not a matter of one's choosing. -[408.68 --> 413.04] It's simply the word used to define those who are unmarried. -[413.88 --> 416.18] It's sort of the new way of saying virgin in the Bible. -[416.30 --> 418.38] So celibacy is choosing to be single. -[418.70 --> 421.28] Being single is simply being single. -[421.50 --> 422.28] That's the difference there. -[422.32 --> 422.84] Does that make sense? -[423.10 --> 423.80] A few head nods. -[424.08 --> 424.50] We're following. -[424.60 --> 424.98] Because that's going to be. -[425.04 --> 426.14] I'm going to be using these words a lot. -[426.26 --> 426.68] So if we're. -[426.76 --> 427.70] We got a track with those. -[428.06 --> 428.30] Perfect. -[428.30 --> 431.00] Now there's a fascinating comparison. -[431.12 --> 434.76] Between the contemporary cultural view of these words. -[435.08 --> 436.88] And the church's view of these words. -[437.78 --> 439.18] In western culture today. -[439.28 --> 439.88] Think about this. -[440.04 --> 442.92] Singleness is viewed with respect. -[443.92 --> 446.84] People are getting married later and later in life in our culture. -[446.84 --> 450.52] And generally the idea of looking out for number one. -[450.62 --> 451.50] Looking out for yourself. -[451.70 --> 453.68] Still reigns very true in our culture. -[454.34 --> 458.38] The strong, independent, I need no one else person. -[458.66 --> 462.74] Is very, very much valued in our world today. -[463.98 --> 465.82] However, though that part is true. -[466.40 --> 469.86] Remaining single is praised in our contemporary culture. -[469.86 --> 474.36] However, celibacy or virginity is not. -[475.16 --> 477.30] Just watch any sitcom on TV. -[480.22 --> 484.24] Our culture views virginity as something that needs to be done away with. -[484.32 --> 485.64] Something that needs to be lost. -[486.80 --> 489.14] And if you choose a life of celibacy. -[489.94 --> 494.00] Well, you are weirder than an ostrich in a swimsuit. -[496.30 --> 498.48] In western culture, single is good. -[498.48 --> 503.82] But celibate or virgin is bad. -[505.72 --> 508.20] In the church, though, in a very broad sense. -[509.28 --> 511.52] We kind of have the exact opposite feeling. -[511.98 --> 514.82] We, if you're unmarried, we praise you for being a virgin. -[514.96 --> 516.44] We praise you for that. -[516.64 --> 518.64] Because that's what the Bible says. -[518.72 --> 519.38] We applaud that. -[519.46 --> 520.24] We encourage that. -[520.28 --> 520.84] And that's good. -[521.16 --> 525.46] Yet in the church, for some reason, singleness is not praised. -[525.46 --> 533.62] Marriage is still pushed on people to the point where singleness is seen as undervalued and not worth pursuing. -[534.38 --> 541.60] In many Christians' eyes, remaining single well into one's 30s or beyond is a problem that needs solving. -[541.60 --> 547.66] Not an opportunity to serve God in a multitude of unique ways. -[547.66 --> 553.36] And the church's view on singleness in that light is a problem. -[553.36 --> 556.54] There's a ripple effect to this mindset. -[556.54 --> 567.12] In the book Singled Out, authors Cologne and Field, they suggest that this anti-single mindset within the church, it's causing all sorts of problems. -[567.12 --> 571.94] Especially when relating it to people who have been divorced or people who struggle with homosexuality. -[572.46 --> 574.54] They say in this book, these authors, they say this. -[574.54 --> 585.14] Rather than being seen as a wonderful opportunity to serve God, celibacy is repeatedly seen as not only second best, but also a guarantee of an unfulfilled and miserable life. -[585.50 --> 598.66] How do we expect those who struggle with homosexuality or those recovering from divorce to see celibacy as a positive option when it is not seen as a valued alternative for other singles? -[598.66 --> 606.44] Now today we don't have time to look at the homosexuality or the divorce discussion, sadly. -[607.30 --> 611.70] But that quote highlights the Western church's view on singleness very well. -[612.08 --> 614.62] Marriage is viewed as the preferred lifestyle within the church. -[614.94 --> 616.76] And singleness is lamentable. -[616.92 --> 618.40] Something that we need to solve. -[618.70 --> 621.02] Something that we need to fix. -[622.88 --> 625.02] But the Bible says otherwise. -[625.68 --> 627.38] Just look at what Paul says in our text today. -[627.38 --> 634.94] Whittled down to the tiniest of sentences, Paul basically says that it's cool to get married, but it might be more beneficial to remain single. -[636.54 --> 638.00] So why does Paul say that? -[640.20 --> 645.86] You'll notice in our text that Paul writes of an impending crisis, which he mentions right at the top in verse 26. -[646.54 --> 654.08] He says to this church, in order to live free of distractions during this crisis, it would be better to remain single. -[654.08 --> 657.56] So what crisis is Paul speaking of? -[659.18 --> 662.26] Sadly, the truth is no one's absolutely certain. -[662.82 --> 669.18] Historically, though, a huge famine came over the whole Mediterranean area pretty soon after Paul wrote this letter. -[669.62 --> 671.18] So many people think it could be that. -[671.58 --> 675.90] It's possible that Paul is referencing pagan culture in general in the area, -[675.90 --> 679.56] or maybe something else specific to the Corinth church that we don't know about. -[680.86 --> 687.36] Scholars also believe, and I tend to land on this too, that Paul could be speaking about Christ's second coming. -[687.70 --> 691.56] Where Christ will come to judge those too distracted to follow them. -[692.16 --> 696.52] And if you read verses 29 to 31, and especially verse 31 in our text, -[696.90 --> 700.72] it does seem like Paul's speaking of Christ's second coming. -[700.72 --> 706.82] T. Wright, a scholar, he says this, and I think most scholars believe this, -[707.36 --> 710.80] Paul is referring both to this immediate crisis, -[711.18 --> 714.58] and to the fact that it points forward to the ultimate crisis, -[715.12 --> 716.50] the time of the Lord's return. -[717.14 --> 720.40] So even if the current crisis suddenly passes, let's say it was a famine, -[720.70 --> 722.58] even if the current crisis suddenly passes, -[722.84 --> 726.72] if wonderful crops and plentiful food again flood the markets of Corinth, -[726.72 --> 731.86] and everywhere else, there will still be the final crisis to face. -[733.94 --> 736.80] Now if that's the case, and again most scholars believe that, -[737.16 --> 740.88] then Paul's point of singleness cannot be squarely meant -[740.88 --> 744.26] about a crisis that only Corinth was to face. -[745.40 --> 748.18] But it's for all of us, the whole church, -[748.56 --> 751.22] who await Christ's second coming. -[751.22 --> 754.10] And so Paul says that in light of this famine, -[754.28 --> 756.72] and with the knowledge of Christ's second coming at hand, -[757.04 --> 761.38] it is better for us all to remain without distraction. -[763.14 --> 765.68] And while getting married is all fine and well, -[767.14 --> 769.70] remaining single is best. -[772.90 --> 775.26] It becomes easy then to read this text -[775.26 --> 777.40] and assume that Paul might be anti-marriage. -[777.40 --> 779.68] But earlier in this very chapter, -[780.38 --> 782.86] in 1 Corinthians chapter 7, verses 2 to 5, -[782.92 --> 784.14] if you've got your Bibles, you can read that, -[784.22 --> 786.56] Paul speaks about how two should become one. -[787.04 --> 788.24] In other letters Paul writes, -[788.32 --> 789.96] he gives instructions for healthy marriages, -[790.12 --> 792.46] like in Colossians 3 or Ephesians 5 -[792.46 --> 794.70] or 1 Timothy 2 or Titus 2. -[795.50 --> 797.14] The apostle Peter, Paul's buddy, -[797.46 --> 799.96] he also speaks to healthy marriages in 1 Peter 2. -[800.12 --> 802.96] And God himself ordains marriage -[802.96 --> 805.38] right at the beginning of time in Genesis 2. -[805.38 --> 808.48] So the Bible very clearly shows us -[808.48 --> 810.42] that marriage matters to Paul, -[810.86 --> 811.80] it matters to Peter, -[811.98 --> 814.30] and it matters to God himself. -[815.48 --> 817.22] But in this passage today, -[817.46 --> 818.54] Paul teaches us -[818.54 --> 823.52] that being single matters too. -[826.52 --> 828.82] Some view this passage in 1 Corinthians -[828.82 --> 830.14] as a calling for us, -[830.32 --> 832.84] for us all to strive toward celibacy. -[832.84 --> 834.08] However, as mentioned above, -[834.18 --> 835.98] if we look at marriage through the lens of Scripture, -[836.20 --> 837.58] that cannot be the case. -[838.48 --> 839.86] However, the flip is also true. -[839.96 --> 840.68] Some look at this -[840.68 --> 843.16] and are guilty of simply brushing Paul's message off here -[843.16 --> 844.38] as simply contextual, -[844.58 --> 845.88] only for the people of Corinth -[845.88 --> 848.10] because they have this crisis they have to get through. -[849.62 --> 851.80] Both of those interpretations fall short. -[852.80 --> 855.08] If we read 1 Corinthians 7 here -[855.08 --> 858.48] in conjunction with what Jesus teaches in Matthew 19, -[858.48 --> 861.04] we see that both Paul and Jesus -[861.04 --> 862.68] get at the same thing. -[863.98 --> 866.28] In Matthew 19, verses 10 to 12, -[866.72 --> 868.88] which again, feel free to open your Bibles and turn to, -[869.38 --> 870.90] Jesus is telling his disciples -[870.90 --> 874.32] that not all are called to get married -[874.32 --> 877.60] and that some specifically are called -[877.60 --> 879.44] to remain single. -[879.44 --> 883.66] Paul echoes that in this passage. -[883.78 --> 884.54] He is teaching us -[884.54 --> 886.58] that we all need to be -[886.58 --> 890.36] undividedly devoted to God. -[893.04 --> 894.76] Back to this Corinthians passage. -[895.16 --> 896.62] Four times in this text, -[897.04 --> 899.80] Paul uses the Greek term merimnau, -[900.04 --> 903.38] which I had YouTube teach me how to say properly -[903.38 --> 905.58] so that I wouldn't look foolish in front of all of you. -[905.58 --> 910.14] Now this word merimnau means to be anxious -[910.14 --> 913.62] about either frivolous or genuine concerns. -[914.52 --> 917.66] And in this letter, Paul uses this word merimnau -[917.66 --> 920.30] to refer to the normal affairs -[920.30 --> 923.26] that married people face because of their marriage, -[923.48 --> 925.76] which can compete with the time and energy -[925.76 --> 927.34] that one has for the Lord. -[929.02 --> 931.02] Paul never says that marriage is wrong, -[931.82 --> 933.94] only that marriage brings with it -[933.94 --> 935.98] frivolous and genuine concerns -[935.98 --> 938.94] that might impede on our ability -[938.94 --> 940.92] to be devoted to God. -[944.82 --> 947.48] Singleness can also impede -[947.48 --> 949.16] on one's ability to focus -[949.16 --> 951.30] their relationship with God. -[952.08 --> 953.86] If someone who is single -[953.86 --> 956.36] spends the majority of his or her time -[956.36 --> 958.02] trying to find that special someone, -[958.42 --> 959.86] then their relationship with God -[959.86 --> 961.18] would be just as impeded -[961.18 --> 962.62] as the married person -[962.62 --> 964.06] who spends too much of their time -[964.06 --> 965.90] on the frivolous concerns -[965.90 --> 967.16] of their marriage. -[970.18 --> 973.24] The challenge for all of us -[973.24 --> 974.08] here today -[974.08 --> 975.72] is to ask ourselves, -[976.44 --> 977.66] what is impeding -[977.66 --> 978.70] my ability -[978.70 --> 981.64] to be fully devoted -[981.64 --> 982.72] to God? -[982.72 --> 985.38] That is the heart -[985.38 --> 986.40] of Paul's message -[986.40 --> 987.30] here in this text. -[989.00 --> 990.28] What is impeding -[990.28 --> 991.76] my ability -[991.76 --> 993.50] to be fully devoted -[993.50 --> 994.38] to God? -[998.60 --> 1000.30] All aspects of our lives, -[1000.50 --> 1001.18] our jobs, -[1001.42 --> 1002.14] our passions, -[1002.58 --> 1004.08] our relational statuses, -[1004.24 --> 1005.60] they are gifts from God. -[1005.66 --> 1006.74] And we cannot assume -[1006.74 --> 1008.86] that he has bigger marital plans -[1008.86 --> 1009.76] for us if we're single, -[1009.76 --> 1010.84] or that we've made -[1010.84 --> 1011.82] a grievous error, -[1012.24 --> 1013.10] or we are lesser -[1013.10 --> 1013.92] in God's eyes -[1013.92 --> 1014.64] if we are married. -[1015.56 --> 1017.06] Our marital status -[1017.06 --> 1018.98] should have no bearing -[1018.98 --> 1020.96] on our devotion to Christ. -[1022.48 --> 1023.82] Whatever our circumstance, -[1024.54 --> 1026.40] we need to be an active believer -[1026.40 --> 1027.74] in Christ our Savior. -[1028.18 --> 1029.62] Paul is challenging all of us, -[1029.68 --> 1031.12] no matter our relationship status, -[1031.12 --> 1033.62] to be undividedly devoted -[1033.62 --> 1034.62] to God. -[1036.24 --> 1037.62] And so in that mindset, -[1037.62 --> 1041.20] singleness needs to be seen -[1041.20 --> 1043.22] by everybody in the church -[1043.22 --> 1046.34] as being a gift from God. -[1047.02 --> 1048.16] Because being single -[1048.16 --> 1049.02] allows for people -[1049.02 --> 1050.94] to have the unique way -[1050.94 --> 1052.26] to show their devotion -[1052.26 --> 1052.76] to the Lord, -[1052.82 --> 1053.80] and it opens up the door -[1053.80 --> 1056.46] to tremendous ministry opportunities. -[1060.56 --> 1062.08] In order for this truth -[1062.08 --> 1063.96] to fully take hold -[1063.96 --> 1064.78] in the church, -[1065.06 --> 1066.28] and I mean this church, -[1066.28 --> 1067.60] but I mean the church, -[1068.66 --> 1070.18] there's a couple of obstacles -[1070.18 --> 1071.34] for the single Christian -[1071.34 --> 1073.26] that we as a church body, -[1073.34 --> 1074.08] all of us, -[1074.50 --> 1075.74] need to overcome together. -[1077.62 --> 1078.90] The first obstacle -[1078.90 --> 1080.42] for the single Christian today -[1080.42 --> 1081.62] is that the church -[1081.62 --> 1083.04] puts undue pressure -[1083.04 --> 1084.30] on them to get married. -[1086.10 --> 1087.34] As mentioned earlier, -[1087.78 --> 1088.94] rather than being seen -[1088.94 --> 1090.58] as a gift from God, -[1090.70 --> 1091.48] singleness is viewed -[1091.48 --> 1092.10] within the church -[1092.10 --> 1093.20] not only as second best -[1093.20 --> 1093.64] to marriage, -[1093.64 --> 1094.78] but it's often seen -[1094.78 --> 1095.68] as a guarantee -[1095.68 --> 1098.26] to an unfulfilled life, -[1098.40 --> 1099.06] like you're just -[1099.06 --> 1100.50] not quite there. -[1102.16 --> 1103.18] That's hogwash, -[1103.40 --> 1103.68] church, -[1103.82 --> 1104.34] hogwash, -[1104.48 --> 1104.80] I've been waiting -[1104.80 --> 1105.42] to say that word. -[1106.06 --> 1106.70] It's hogwash. -[1107.74 --> 1108.92] The church has to change -[1108.92 --> 1109.44] that narrative. -[1109.80 --> 1110.46] We have to. -[1111.04 --> 1111.74] Or the single people -[1111.74 --> 1113.64] will always look at their lives -[1113.64 --> 1114.54] as missing something -[1114.54 --> 1115.06] from God. -[1116.38 --> 1117.42] The reality is -[1117.42 --> 1118.02] God has put them -[1118.02 --> 1119.06] in a place to serve him -[1119.06 --> 1119.76] and his kingdom -[1119.76 --> 1120.48] in a multitude -[1120.48 --> 1121.32] of unique ways, -[1121.32 --> 1122.74] and we need to celebrate -[1122.74 --> 1124.10] that as a church. -[1126.90 --> 1128.08] A second obstacle -[1128.08 --> 1129.62] is the feeling -[1129.62 --> 1130.34] of loneliness -[1130.34 --> 1131.86] that can come -[1131.86 --> 1133.40] to one who is single. -[1134.28 --> 1134.68] And again, -[1134.74 --> 1135.24] this is something -[1135.24 --> 1135.70] that the church, -[1135.80 --> 1136.58] we just have to do -[1136.58 --> 1137.32] a better job -[1137.32 --> 1138.20] of combating. -[1140.38 --> 1141.56] Jesus himself, -[1141.70 --> 1142.38] in Mark 3, -[1142.46 --> 1143.84] verses 31 to 35, -[1144.34 --> 1144.94] he's asked, -[1145.10 --> 1145.76] who is your family? -[1146.48 --> 1147.22] And he answers -[1147.22 --> 1147.70] and he points -[1147.70 --> 1148.38] to his disciples -[1148.38 --> 1148.94] and he says, -[1149.26 --> 1150.22] here is my mother -[1150.22 --> 1151.16] and my brother -[1151.16 --> 1152.22] and my sisters. -[1152.44 --> 1153.26] Here is my family. -[1153.34 --> 1154.04] His point is not -[1154.04 --> 1154.60] to belittle -[1154.60 --> 1156.32] his real family, -[1156.70 --> 1157.84] his biological family, -[1158.50 --> 1160.68] but it's to raise up -[1160.68 --> 1161.72] a new family, -[1161.82 --> 1162.56] the church who would -[1162.56 --> 1163.94] care for and look -[1163.94 --> 1165.14] after one another -[1165.14 --> 1166.64] beyond the bonds -[1166.64 --> 1168.12] of biology. -[1170.06 --> 1171.18] For a single person -[1171.18 --> 1171.68] in the church, -[1171.80 --> 1172.80] this family of faith -[1172.80 --> 1174.06] needs to become part -[1174.06 --> 1176.10] of their nuclear family. -[1176.26 --> 1177.20] They shouldn't need -[1177.20 --> 1178.30] a husband or a wife -[1178.30 --> 1179.92] to fulfill that communal role -[1179.92 --> 1180.54] in their lives. -[1180.86 --> 1182.56] The body should be -[1182.56 --> 1184.40] that community for them. -[1186.24 --> 1187.74] If the church functioned -[1187.74 --> 1188.56] as Christ calls it -[1188.56 --> 1189.16] to function, -[1190.10 --> 1191.36] loneliness should not affect -[1191.36 --> 1192.76] the single Christian -[1192.76 --> 1193.66] for long -[1193.66 --> 1195.40] because they would be -[1195.40 --> 1196.64] enveloped -[1196.64 --> 1199.42] into the family of Christ. -[1202.82 --> 1204.38] Singleness is just as big -[1204.38 --> 1205.54] a benefit to one's life -[1205.54 --> 1206.76] and to Christ's body -[1206.76 --> 1207.38] as marriage. -[1207.38 --> 1208.44] Right now, -[1208.52 --> 1208.90] though the church -[1208.90 --> 1209.92] generally views marriage -[1209.92 --> 1211.08] in a more positive light, -[1211.28 --> 1212.86] it would behoove all of us -[1212.86 --> 1213.72] to swing that pendulum -[1213.72 --> 1214.44] back to the middle. -[1216.06 --> 1216.82] After all, -[1216.88 --> 1217.86] both Paul and Jesus -[1217.86 --> 1218.94] say that it is special -[1218.94 --> 1220.16] and it is beneficial -[1220.16 --> 1221.36] to be single -[1221.36 --> 1222.44] in this life. -[1223.80 --> 1225.16] There's a beautiful quote -[1225.16 --> 1226.70] from Evan Lanau -[1226.70 --> 1228.38] and he sums up this nicely. -[1229.08 --> 1229.50] He says, -[1229.50 --> 1231.82] both Jesus and Paul -[1231.82 --> 1233.34] retained a positive outlook -[1233.34 --> 1234.00] on singleness -[1234.00 --> 1236.00] because they recognized -[1236.00 --> 1237.44] that the responsibilities -[1237.44 --> 1238.36] of marriage -[1238.36 --> 1239.44] could take away -[1239.44 --> 1240.84] from a singular focus -[1240.84 --> 1242.14] on ministry. -[1243.26 --> 1244.12] In addition, -[1244.28 --> 1245.24] being part of the body -[1245.24 --> 1245.74] of Christ -[1245.74 --> 1246.54] would provide -[1246.54 --> 1247.58] a new family -[1247.58 --> 1248.78] for believers -[1248.78 --> 1249.76] whose bonds -[1249.76 --> 1250.88] are stronger -[1250.88 --> 1252.68] than an earthly family. -[1252.68 --> 1252.76] family. -[1255.20 --> 1255.96] And so, -[1256.34 --> 1257.54] let's land here. -[1258.46 --> 1259.24] If you're married, -[1260.08 --> 1261.04] don't think that marriage -[1261.04 --> 1261.90] is God's calling -[1261.90 --> 1262.56] for everyone. -[1263.82 --> 1264.82] Treat those who are single -[1264.82 --> 1265.60] in your life -[1265.60 --> 1267.34] like they are family. -[1268.60 --> 1269.26] Celebrate them. -[1269.38 --> 1270.00] Encourage them -[1270.00 --> 1270.50] in their walk -[1270.50 --> 1271.00] with their Lord. -[1272.60 --> 1273.04] Push them -[1273.04 --> 1274.08] to be devoted -[1274.08 --> 1274.70] to God -[1274.70 --> 1275.44] only. -[1276.24 --> 1276.84] And as Paul -[1276.84 --> 1277.82] encourages us all, -[1277.82 --> 1279.66] don't let marriage, -[1279.78 --> 1280.52] your marriage, -[1281.14 --> 1281.82] distract you -[1281.82 --> 1282.74] from your relationship -[1282.74 --> 1283.50] with God. -[1284.84 --> 1286.26] Don't let that impede. -[1287.76 --> 1288.06] Rather, -[1288.20 --> 1289.04] let your relationship -[1289.04 --> 1290.02] with God -[1290.02 --> 1291.44] enhance -[1291.44 --> 1292.62] your relationship. -[1293.40 --> 1294.76] Not just with your spouse, -[1294.88 --> 1295.76] but with all people. -[1297.06 --> 1297.90] And if you're single, -[1299.28 --> 1300.54] don't get sucked -[1300.54 --> 1301.86] into the false narrative -[1301.86 --> 1302.80] that you need -[1302.80 --> 1303.52] to get married -[1303.52 --> 1304.72] to have a fulfilling -[1304.72 --> 1306.58] and meaningful life. -[1307.82 --> 1309.22] Be fully devoted -[1309.22 --> 1309.88] to God. -[1311.00 --> 1312.32] And infuse yourself -[1312.32 --> 1313.32] into the lives -[1313.32 --> 1314.16] of the people -[1314.16 --> 1315.24] in your church. -[1316.14 --> 1317.32] Don't let the distraction -[1317.32 --> 1318.62] of your relational status -[1318.62 --> 1319.88] affect your devotion -[1319.88 --> 1320.72] to God. -[1320.94 --> 1322.22] We sing all the time, -[1322.64 --> 1323.70] He alone is worthy. -[1323.92 --> 1325.08] He is above all. -[1325.36 --> 1326.28] There is none other -[1326.28 --> 1326.86] but Him. -[1328.66 --> 1329.58] Believe that. -[1330.50 --> 1331.20] Trust that. -[1331.28 --> 1331.92] It is true. -[1334.36 --> 1335.06] And for all of us, -[1335.12 --> 1335.54] no matter what -[1335.54 --> 1336.60] our marital status is, -[1336.60 --> 1338.04] may we all be ready -[1338.04 --> 1338.62] to say, -[1339.12 --> 1339.92] here I am, Lord. -[1340.16 --> 1340.94] Use me. -[1341.42 --> 1342.14] Send me. -[1343.22 --> 1344.78] Because it is for His glory -[1344.78 --> 1345.78] and no one else's. -[1347.04 --> 1348.10] Let us all -[1348.10 --> 1350.10] be fully devoted -[1350.10 --> 1351.36] to God. -[1352.24 --> 1353.02] Let me pray. -[1353.02 --> 1364.80] God, today, -[1364.80 --> 1365.56] God, when you boil -[1365.56 --> 1366.30] them down to it, -[1366.34 --> 1367.28] they always say, -[1368.48 --> 1369.06] You are Lord. -[1369.86 --> 1370.74] Follow You. -[1374.02 --> 1374.88] God, today, -[1375.06 --> 1376.04] no matter who we are, -[1376.64 --> 1377.42] no matter our -[1377.42 --> 1378.44] relational status, -[1378.60 --> 1379.90] no matter our job status, -[1380.06 --> 1381.64] no matter our economic status, -[1381.64 --> 1383.02] no matter what status -[1383.02 --> 1384.62] we have been labeled with -[1384.62 --> 1385.86] or that we have chosen, -[1387.56 --> 1388.56] may none of that -[1388.56 --> 1389.28] impede -[1389.28 --> 1391.00] with our ability -[1391.00 --> 1392.26] to be fully -[1392.26 --> 1393.04] devoted -[1393.04 --> 1394.06] to You. -[1395.08 --> 1396.04] May we rise up -[1396.04 --> 1396.62] as a church, -[1396.80 --> 1396.90] Lord. -[1396.96 --> 1397.70] May we be there -[1397.70 --> 1398.30] for each other. -[1398.38 --> 1399.52] May we be a family, -[1399.74 --> 1400.92] no matter who we are, -[1400.98 --> 1401.60] to each other, -[1401.74 --> 1402.58] so that no one -[1402.58 --> 1403.22] feels lost, -[1403.50 --> 1404.62] no one feels left out, -[1404.82 --> 1405.94] no one feels alone, -[1406.14 --> 1406.98] and may we, -[1407.20 --> 1408.02] as a community, -[1408.08 --> 1409.52] strive to seek You -[1409.52 --> 1410.66] first above all else. -[1411.12 --> 1411.84] May that be -[1411.84 --> 1412.56] what we leave here -[1412.56 --> 1413.16] today with, -[1413.74 --> 1414.86] a desire with, -[1414.96 --> 1415.52] no matter what is -[1415.52 --> 1416.16] happening in the world -[1416.16 --> 1416.74] around us, -[1416.86 --> 1417.98] to seek You first -[1417.98 --> 1419.22] and to love each other. -[1420.76 --> 1421.20] And so, God, -[1421.24 --> 1424.24] as we respond in song today, -[1424.30 --> 1425.16] may that be imprinted -[1425.16 --> 1425.88] on our hearts. -[1426.02 --> 1426.74] We pray this all -[1426.74 --> 1427.28] in Your Son's -[1427.28 --> 1428.36] precious and holy name. -[1428.98 --> 1429.20] Amen. -[1429.20 --> 1429.32] Amen. -[1429.32 --> 1429.36] Amen. -[1429.36 --> 1429.38] Amen. diff --git a/Tongue Tied (Sermon)_summary.txt b/Tongue Tied (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 28178a2c422a72c2c4475202a626d3023d79ca3f..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Tongue Tied (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,52 +0,0 @@ -• The Bible passage from James 3 emphasizes the importance of controlling one's tongue -• The tongue is a small but powerful part of the body that can bring great evil and destruction -• The speaker discusses how words can hurt and cause damage, often more than physical harm -• The phrase "sticks and stones may break my bones" is contrasted with the reality that words can be just as painful -• James' letter suggests that one's speech reflects their faith and should be used to uplift and edify others -• The speaker explains that a barometer measures air pressure, which can indicate changes in weather or other external pressures -• Similarly, our speech can reflect the pressures we're under, such as cultural or social expectations -• The tongue and language can reveal one's attitude and behavior. -• Accountability in teaching and preaching is crucial, as teachers will be judged more strictly. -• Preachers/teachers should invite others to check their work and hold them accountable. -• Effective communication is only effective if it is the voice of Jesus to someone's heart. -• All people have a sphere of influence through which they speak words that can inspire faithfulness or not. -• Influence through speech and conversation -• Judging others through digital media -• Separating ideas from personalities online -• Dealing with criticism and negativity online -• Being different as Christians in online interactions -• Starting with words and speech to make a change -• Discussion of perfection and imperfection -• Public shaming vs effective tool for change -• Consequences of shame (hiding, burying) -• Powerlessness of shame to change people's lives -• Mastering sin through the power of the gospel -• Jesus' role in changing individuals -• The Holy Spirit's enabling role in spiritual transformation -• Transformation from one level of glory to another -• Hearer and doer faith means being transformed into the image of Jesus' son -• Being defined by getting up and walking in truth after stumbling -• Connection between what you say and keeping your body in check -• The spiritual discipline to control your tongue is a barometer for ruling the rest of your life -• Submission to Jesus is necessary for overcoming sin -• Self-deception and rationalization of negative behaviors -• The power of words in shaping one's life and behavior -• The importance of self-awareness and the need to challenge negative self-talk -• The role of language and communication in influencing others' perceptions and actions -• The power of the tongue and its ability to steer life, interactions, and relationships -• James' statement that the tongue can corrupt the whole body and set one's course on fire -• The contrast between praising God with the tongue and cursing human beings -• The idea that words speak either hell or heaven, and are not neutral -• Proverbs 18:21 stating that the tongue has the power of life and death -• The importance of speaking "words of life" rather than hurtful or damaging language -• The power of the tongue to bring either life or death, heaven or hell -• The need to speak life and be mindful of what is said -• Warning against gossip and telling others' stories -• Encouragement to ask oneself if words will inspire faithfulness to Jesus -• The way people communicate reflects their faith -• Christians should aim to be a source of renewal and encouragement through their words -• Effective communication involves using language that inspires faithfulness, brings renewal, and refreshes others -• Christians should strive to speak in a way that is different from the world, using words that glorify God and inspire faithfulness. -• Interacting with others in various contexts -• Language and speech of praise -• Prayer in the name of Christ \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Tongue Tied (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/Tongue Tied (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index f5df683bda0e86b0369944f0b4195bb9c6c00122..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Tongue Tied (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1091 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 5.88] This morning we are continuing our look at the book of James. -[6.28 --> 10.70] So if you have a Bible handy, I invite you to grab that or turn it on or whatever the -[10.70 --> 16.50] case may be for you, where you're at, to get your coffee cup and your notebook. -[16.96 --> 20.60] And we're going to dig into James 3 together. -[20.76 --> 22.56] I'm going to read verse 1 through 12. -[22.74 --> 26.96] It will be on the screen, but as always, of course, I encourage you to have it there in -[26.96 --> 27.34] front of you. -[28.04 --> 29.20] From James 3. -[30.00 --> 37.88] Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we -[37.88 --> 40.76] who teach will be judged more strictly. -[42.14 --> 44.20] We all stumble in many ways. -[45.16 --> 49.96] Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body -[49.96 --> 50.48] in check. -[51.58 --> 57.62] When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal -[57.62 --> 60.44] or take ships as an example. -[61.44 --> 67.74] Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small -[67.74 --> 69.72] rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. -[70.88 --> 75.76] Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. -[76.50 --> 80.50] Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. -[80.50 --> 85.88] The tongue is also a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. -[86.52 --> 92.24] It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one's life on fire, and is itself -[92.24 --> 94.62] set on fire by hell. -[96.30 --> 101.88] All kinds of animals, birds and reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed -[101.88 --> 102.56] by mankind. -[102.56 --> 105.68] But no human being can tame the tongue. -[105.86 --> 110.02] It is a restless evil full of deadly poison. -[112.22 --> 121.20] With the tongue, we praise our Lord and Father, and with it, we curse human beings who have -[121.20 --> 122.74] been made in God's image. -[123.92 --> 126.98] Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. -[127.94 --> 130.64] My brothers and sisters, this should not be. -[130.64 --> 134.16] Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? -[134.86 --> 139.90] My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives or a grapevine bear figs? -[140.76 --> 145.14] Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water. -[145.78 --> 147.06] This is the word of the Lord. -[154.12 --> 159.46] When I was a kid, and it's probably still true today, although I haven't heard it in a -[159.46 --> 163.14] while, we used to have this saying, and maybe you know it. -[163.20 --> 167.18] In fact, at home, I encourage you to finish the thought. -[168.28 --> 176.84] Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words or names will never hurt me. -[178.14 --> 179.86] Words can never hurt me. -[179.86 --> 181.86] But let's be real. -[181.86 --> 183.36] But let's be real for a minute. -[184.66 --> 188.60] Because I don't actually remember the last time sticks and stones hurt me. -[189.88 --> 193.76] And I'm quite sure that sticks and stones have never broken any of my bones. -[194.34 --> 197.38] But man, words have hurt me. -[199.26 --> 201.24] Words can hurt. -[201.24 --> 209.96] Truth is, the most common weapon that's ever used against you in life is someone's tongue. -[211.50 --> 217.52] Whether it's gossip behind your back or slander to your face or angry words spoken in haste -[217.52 --> 219.30] or name-calling and disrespect. -[221.58 --> 226.52] And here's the thing that even James, in writing this letter, couldn't have seen coming. -[226.52 --> 229.74] It's not just spoken words these days. -[230.72 --> 233.72] There are texts sent out in friend groups. -[233.88 --> 236.44] There are Snapchats flying around a high school. -[236.60 --> 239.82] There are messenger posts or Facebook pages or Twitter and Instagram. -[240.44 --> 245.36] Words spoken or typed or tagged cut deep. -[246.96 --> 251.48] Most of us, probably all of us, have experienced it. -[251.48 --> 255.60] And let's be really real. -[256.04 --> 261.06] Because most of us, at some point or another, are probably also guilty doing it. -[264.68 --> 269.84] But James has, for us, a more beautiful way. -[270.26 --> 275.40] There's a more beautiful reality into which we are called to live and experience. -[275.40 --> 285.64] The real faith expression of being hearers and doers of the word is going to change your use of words. -[288.28 --> 293.30] Here's the sort of big banner theme that I want us to see today. -[293.30 --> 301.34] Your speech, at the way you talk, the words you use, what you say, and how you say it, -[301.68 --> 307.48] your speech is the barometer of your make-it-real faith. -[309.06 --> 312.30] Real hearers of the word and doers of the word, -[312.82 --> 319.62] and maybe the first way that we are hearers and doers has to do with the way we talk. -[319.62 --> 324.32] Your speech is the barometer of your faith. -[325.18 --> 330.42] And really, I'm adding to the list of metaphors that James uses to help us understand -[330.42 --> 334.56] that the role your speech plays in reflecting a real faith. -[335.62 --> 339.52] But maybe not everyone is really clear what a barometer is. -[340.60 --> 344.52] A barometer is an instrument that's used to measure air pressure. -[344.52 --> 350.28] So the speech you use reflects the pressures you are under. -[351.12 --> 355.14] Cultural pressure to conform, peer pressure to look and sound a certain way, -[355.64 --> 357.70] social pressure to do certain things. -[358.06 --> 362.04] The anxiety of life is reflected in how we talk. -[363.76 --> 369.66] And a barometer is used to forecast weather changes. -[369.66 --> 375.50] Changes in air pressure are indicative of a new system coming in. -[375.88 --> 379.30] You've probably experienced the pressure change before it rains. -[379.44 --> 381.40] Some people get headaches because of it. -[381.52 --> 384.50] Or I've met people who get sore knees, and their knees are sore, -[384.62 --> 386.04] and they go, oh, it's going to rain in two days. -[387.64 --> 391.58] Changing air pressure can reveal what weather is coming. -[391.70 --> 393.80] And it's the same thing with your tongue. -[393.80 --> 402.12] Your language one moment can be a pretty accurate picture of your attitude and your behavior in another moment. -[403.02 --> 406.80] For instance, the way that you talk about your employer, -[407.44 --> 409.90] or the way that you talk about that girl in homeroom, -[410.14 --> 413.54] is indicative of what you will be like towards them, -[413.70 --> 417.84] or indicative of what you will be like about them to others. -[418.70 --> 421.48] Your tongue says a lot about you. -[423.80 --> 428.76] And so, I think it's good for us to start in this text at the beginning. -[429.82 --> 432.04] So, verse 1, we read, -[433.50 --> 438.64] We know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. -[440.82 --> 443.36] As a preacher and teacher of the Bible, -[443.90 --> 446.06] this verse can scare me, -[446.66 --> 448.94] or it can actually embolden me. -[448.94 --> 453.02] Precisely because I believe that it is true, -[453.34 --> 457.50] it makes me take the task of preaching and teaching more seriously. -[457.76 --> 460.10] And so, I labor, and I dig deep, -[460.30 --> 461.94] and I prayerfully reflect, -[462.10 --> 462.72] and I study, -[463.08 --> 463.60] and I read, -[463.70 --> 466.32] and then I invite you into the same -[466.32 --> 467.26] to check me, -[467.34 --> 468.48] and to hold me accountable. -[469.04 --> 470.50] That's what you will hear me say. -[470.68 --> 471.24] Things like, -[471.34 --> 472.26] check it out for yourself, -[472.40 --> 474.18] or dig into this yourself. -[474.34 --> 475.06] Follow up on it. -[475.06 --> 475.78] And if you disagree, -[476.04 --> 476.64] email me, -[476.74 --> 477.18] call me. -[477.40 --> 478.70] Let's have coffee together. -[479.02 --> 480.32] Because I need you, -[480.40 --> 481.90] and we need you, -[481.94 --> 483.22] and we all need each other -[483.22 --> 485.52] in the mix of this discernment -[485.52 --> 486.66] of the Word -[486.66 --> 488.36] and application of the Word. -[488.48 --> 490.46] That's how we grow together. -[492.06 --> 494.22] I need you to hold me accountable -[494.22 --> 496.66] because of what James says, -[496.66 --> 500.84] but not because I'm afraid of judgment, -[502.20 --> 504.86] but because the gospel really is -[504.86 --> 506.80] the power of God unto salvation -[506.80 --> 508.04] for all who believe, -[508.10 --> 509.80] and I am not ashamed of that. -[510.00 --> 511.10] And you better believe, -[511.20 --> 512.16] because that is true, -[512.30 --> 513.52] that I want to get it right, -[514.00 --> 515.28] and that we want to get it right. -[516.86 --> 517.88] My words, -[518.04 --> 519.06] as a preacher and teacher, -[519.26 --> 520.92] are only effective, -[521.60 --> 524.46] are only applicable in your life, -[524.46 --> 527.20] insofar as they are the voice of Jesus -[527.20 --> 528.26] to your heart. -[529.40 --> 530.68] I must decrease, -[531.18 --> 532.28] and He must increase. -[533.28 --> 535.86] I hold out the Word of life -[535.86 --> 537.78] so that you can shine like stars -[537.78 --> 541.54] in this present darkness of the universe. -[542.80 --> 545.14] And that God will judge me as a teacher -[545.14 --> 548.00] inspires me to faithfulness, -[548.14 --> 551.18] and I hope that He and we do the same, right? -[551.18 --> 553.10] I hope that my preaching and teaching, -[553.22 --> 554.20] that Pastor Kevin's, -[554.28 --> 555.10] that Josh, -[555.18 --> 556.46] as he was up here last week, -[556.48 --> 558.58] whoever stands here, right, -[558.62 --> 559.62] and brings the Word to you, -[559.64 --> 560.08] or Nikki, -[560.24 --> 560.70] or Mike, -[560.80 --> 561.26] or Eric, -[561.38 --> 563.26] or Hank the Hound in Kids Corner, -[563.64 --> 565.28] that the kids worship volunteers, -[565.48 --> 566.58] that Bible study leaders, -[566.94 --> 568.40] whomever it may be, -[568.62 --> 572.24] our job is to inspire faithfulness -[572.24 --> 573.32] in each other. -[575.46 --> 577.36] I think that's a really interesting question -[577.36 --> 579.24] for us to consider. -[579.24 --> 581.80] Let me put it in a way -[581.80 --> 582.58] that I think James -[582.58 --> 584.96] wants us to apply this verse. -[587.10 --> 588.06] Are your words, -[588.60 --> 589.24] is your speech, -[590.36 --> 592.94] inspiring faithfulness to Jesus -[592.94 --> 595.12] in the people who hear you? -[597.20 --> 597.82] So mom, -[598.70 --> 599.78] do your words -[599.78 --> 602.32] draw faithfulness to Jesus -[602.32 --> 603.30] out of your daughter? -[604.68 --> 606.28] Maybe you're an aspiring -[606.28 --> 607.24] social media influencer. -[607.24 --> 609.26] Do your words -[609.26 --> 611.10] inspire faithfulness to God -[611.10 --> 612.00] in your followers, -[612.12 --> 613.22] whether that's five -[613.22 --> 614.08] or five million? -[615.66 --> 616.42] I think about it. -[616.72 --> 617.94] We may not all be teachers -[617.94 --> 618.82] in the church, -[619.28 --> 620.10] but all of us -[620.10 --> 622.08] have a sphere of influence -[622.08 --> 623.76] over which we speak words. -[624.38 --> 626.56] And is your sphere of influence -[626.56 --> 628.68] inspired to faithfulness -[628.68 --> 630.64] by the way you talk to them, -[630.80 --> 632.58] by the very words you use? -[632.58 --> 634.94] I really believe -[634.94 --> 636.14] that that's a good measure -[636.14 --> 638.56] with which to check ourselves -[638.56 --> 641.60] in this conversation. -[645.44 --> 647.56] But there's another way -[647.56 --> 650.78] in which this is also applicable, -[651.10 --> 653.50] and a way that I was really struck by, -[653.58 --> 655.20] and it's a more immediate way -[655.20 --> 656.58] and perhaps probably actually -[656.58 --> 658.10] a negative way, right, -[658.14 --> 659.94] in which this verse is also true. -[659.94 --> 661.54] Because in our world, -[661.64 --> 663.44] especially in this digital age -[663.44 --> 664.62] where most of what we do -[664.62 --> 666.08] is online forever, -[666.48 --> 666.68] right, -[666.70 --> 668.20] when you put yourself out there, -[668.26 --> 669.54] your ideas or your teaching -[669.54 --> 670.26] or whatever, -[670.48 --> 672.08] you are inviting judgment -[672.08 --> 673.16] from people. -[674.34 --> 675.46] So YouTube content, -[675.74 --> 676.34] TikToks, -[676.42 --> 676.74] Instagram, -[677.00 --> 677.28] Facebook, -[677.46 --> 678.04] whatever it is, -[678.10 --> 679.50] when you put yourself out there, -[679.82 --> 681.46] people will judge it. -[683.02 --> 684.30] And so many people -[684.30 --> 684.96] on the internet -[684.96 --> 685.64] have forgotten -[685.64 --> 687.30] how to separate ideas -[687.30 --> 688.02] from the people -[688.02 --> 688.62] who speak them. -[689.96 --> 690.90] And instead of debating -[690.90 --> 692.36] ideas and content, -[692.58 --> 693.76] we attack the messenger. -[694.94 --> 695.14] Right? -[695.18 --> 695.94] You get trolled -[695.94 --> 696.68] or you get bullied -[696.68 --> 697.64] or you get canceled. -[698.50 --> 699.24] And it's not just -[699.24 --> 699.86] the so-called -[699.86 --> 701.40] keyboard warriors anymore. -[701.66 --> 702.52] This is normal. -[702.90 --> 704.52] This is how we interact online. -[705.20 --> 706.28] And it hurts. -[707.92 --> 708.92] And it's hard. -[708.92 --> 711.82] So look, -[711.90 --> 712.96] we've put it in this -[712.96 --> 714.30] context before, -[715.20 --> 716.18] but Christians -[716.18 --> 717.80] have to be -[717.80 --> 718.72] different. -[720.00 --> 720.76] If you say -[720.76 --> 721.68] that you believe -[721.68 --> 723.08] in this Jesus guy -[723.08 --> 724.10] and you really want -[724.10 --> 724.88] to live your life -[724.88 --> 725.48] for the glory -[725.48 --> 726.68] of his name, -[726.80 --> 728.16] you've got to be different. -[728.94 --> 729.94] And so stop it. -[730.78 --> 730.88] Right? -[731.00 --> 731.84] Be different. -[732.32 --> 733.44] Post different. -[733.78 --> 734.92] Engage differently. -[735.30 --> 736.46] Talk differently. -[736.46 --> 738.00] In fact, -[738.24 --> 740.02] if you see something online -[740.02 --> 741.36] that triggers you, -[742.08 --> 742.96] maybe try talking -[742.96 --> 743.56] to that person -[743.56 --> 744.46] face-to-face. -[745.28 --> 745.40] Right? -[745.44 --> 746.20] Take it offline. -[746.72 --> 747.50] Maybe what we need -[747.50 --> 748.06] to reclaim -[748.06 --> 749.50] is face-to-face -[749.50 --> 750.82] and dinner table debates. -[751.58 --> 751.72] Right? -[751.78 --> 752.50] Enough of this -[752.50 --> 754.16] avatar echo chamber. -[755.00 --> 755.12] Right? -[755.16 --> 756.00] Just stop it. -[756.46 --> 757.20] Be different. -[759.12 --> 759.84] And I think -[759.84 --> 760.62] what James is saying -[760.62 --> 761.18] is that's got to -[761.18 --> 761.82] start up here. -[762.54 --> 763.24] It's got to start -[763.24 --> 765.42] with our words, -[765.42 --> 766.70] with our speech. -[767.64 --> 768.20] And I think James -[768.20 --> 769.32] makes this clear -[769.32 --> 769.98] when he says -[769.98 --> 771.42] in verse 2. -[772.54 --> 772.88] He says, -[773.02 --> 773.70] we all stumble -[773.70 --> 775.02] in many ways. -[776.20 --> 776.90] Anyone who is -[776.90 --> 777.76] never at fault -[777.76 --> 779.14] in what they say -[779.14 --> 780.04] is perfect, -[780.34 --> 781.08] able to keep -[781.08 --> 781.94] their whole body -[781.94 --> 782.48] in check. -[783.04 --> 783.50] And so first, -[783.58 --> 784.34] what I want us -[784.34 --> 785.28] to see in that verse -[785.28 --> 786.68] is that James -[786.68 --> 787.72] is a realist. -[788.80 --> 788.98] Right? -[789.00 --> 789.70] What does he start there? -[789.74 --> 789.94] He says, -[790.00 --> 790.80] we all stumble -[790.80 --> 791.92] in many ways. -[792.30 --> 793.40] You are not perfect -[793.40 --> 793.92] in this. -[793.92 --> 795.16] I am not perfect -[795.16 --> 795.44] in this. -[795.54 --> 796.30] No one is. -[797.14 --> 797.24] Right? -[797.30 --> 797.98] And this isn't -[797.98 --> 799.26] about shame. -[799.46 --> 800.22] This isn't about -[800.22 --> 800.98] shaming you -[800.98 --> 802.02] into behavior -[802.02 --> 803.06] modification. -[803.46 --> 803.58] Right? -[803.62 --> 803.86] Again, -[803.94 --> 804.72] in our culture, -[804.92 --> 805.84] we've come to this -[805.84 --> 806.68] place where we think -[806.68 --> 807.74] that public shaming -[807.74 --> 808.64] is the only -[808.64 --> 809.70] effective tool -[809.70 --> 810.20] for changing -[810.20 --> 810.88] people's lives. -[811.36 --> 812.66] But let's be honest, -[813.02 --> 814.04] it's not genuinely -[814.04 --> 814.74] effective. -[815.86 --> 815.96] Right? -[816.06 --> 816.76] Shame makes -[816.76 --> 817.60] people hide. -[818.04 --> 818.92] Shame makes us -[818.92 --> 819.62] bury things -[819.62 --> 820.56] so deeply -[820.56 --> 821.04] that people -[821.04 --> 821.80] don't see them. -[822.14 --> 822.78] Shame doesn't -[822.78 --> 823.72] change us. -[824.04 --> 824.56] Shame doesn't -[824.56 --> 825.20] stop you -[825.20 --> 826.02] from stumbling. -[826.38 --> 827.00] It just means -[827.00 --> 827.70] that you stumble -[827.70 --> 828.98] alone in the dark. -[830.50 --> 831.06] Christians -[831.06 --> 831.82] gotta be -[831.82 --> 832.62] different. -[834.20 --> 834.86] So the question -[834.86 --> 835.70] for you is, -[836.00 --> 836.46] will you be -[836.46 --> 837.58] mastered by shame -[837.58 --> 838.28] and sin -[838.28 --> 839.82] or will you -[839.82 --> 840.48] learn to -[840.48 --> 841.38] master it -[841.38 --> 842.16] in the power -[842.16 --> 842.84] of the gospel? -[844.20 --> 845.56] You can change. -[845.90 --> 847.32] Jesus changes you. -[847.40 --> 848.08] The Holy Spirit -[848.08 --> 849.22] enables you. -[850.08 --> 850.26] Look, -[850.88 --> 851.26] Josh, -[851.52 --> 852.32] last week for us, -[852.32 --> 853.08] made this point -[853.08 --> 853.78] so well. -[854.52 --> 854.64] Right? -[854.66 --> 855.12] If your Bibles -[855.12 --> 855.54] are open, -[855.62 --> 856.74] look at verse 26 -[856.74 --> 857.90] at the end -[857.90 --> 858.56] of chapter 2. -[859.46 --> 860.40] Verse 26 says, -[860.76 --> 861.36] as the body -[861.36 --> 862.04] without the spirit -[862.04 --> 862.48] is dead, -[862.66 --> 863.38] so faith -[863.38 --> 864.46] without deeds -[864.46 --> 865.84] is dead. -[866.16 --> 867.20] You are -[867.20 --> 867.82] no longer -[867.82 --> 868.24] dead. -[868.92 --> 869.82] That's the gospel -[869.82 --> 870.78] for us. -[871.22 --> 871.38] Right? -[871.48 --> 872.06] That Jesus -[872.06 --> 872.96] lived the life -[872.96 --> 873.82] I should have lived -[873.82 --> 874.78] and died the death -[874.78 --> 875.42] that I deserve -[875.42 --> 876.38] and that three days -[876.38 --> 877.24] later he was -[877.24 --> 878.88] raised from the dead. -[879.16 --> 879.80] The grave -[879.80 --> 880.84] is empty. -[880.84 --> 881.92] He walked out -[881.92 --> 882.16] of it -[882.16 --> 882.64] and now -[882.64 --> 883.36] that grave -[883.36 --> 883.88] of sin -[883.88 --> 884.32] and death -[884.32 --> 885.80] has no hold -[885.80 --> 886.46] over you. -[886.56 --> 887.30] It can't hold -[887.30 --> 887.84] you down. -[888.22 --> 888.64] In him -[888.64 --> 889.82] you are raised -[889.82 --> 890.40] from being -[890.40 --> 891.88] spiritually dead -[891.88 --> 893.22] to being -[893.22 --> 894.58] finally alive. -[895.60 --> 896.26] The glory -[896.26 --> 896.84] of God -[896.84 --> 897.58] is the human -[897.58 --> 898.56] being fully -[898.56 --> 899.34] alive. -[899.70 --> 900.46] Real faith -[900.46 --> 902.12] means real life. -[903.12 --> 904.00] Maybe for the -[904.00 --> 904.72] first time. -[906.18 --> 907.38] Actual life. -[907.38 --> 909.18] Jesus life -[909.18 --> 910.42] lived in you -[910.42 --> 911.64] and through you -[911.64 --> 912.34] as you are -[912.34 --> 912.92] transformed -[912.92 --> 914.08] from one degree -[914.08 --> 914.86] of glory -[914.86 --> 915.94] to another. -[916.82 --> 916.94] Right? -[917.06 --> 917.84] Real faith. -[917.98 --> 918.90] Hearer and doer -[918.90 --> 919.30] faith -[919.30 --> 920.36] means that you -[920.36 --> 921.50] are being transformed -[921.50 --> 922.68] into the image -[922.68 --> 923.56] of his son. -[924.48 --> 924.96] And so, -[925.44 --> 925.76] yes, -[925.96 --> 927.14] we all stumble -[927.14 --> 928.72] in many ways -[928.72 --> 929.40] but you are not -[929.40 --> 930.84] defined by stumbling. -[931.64 --> 932.64] You are defined -[932.64 --> 933.80] by getting up, -[934.02 --> 935.18] by being raised up -[935.18 --> 935.78] and walking -[935.78 --> 936.56] in the truth. -[936.56 --> 937.56] You are defined -[937.56 --> 938.30] by Jesus -[938.30 --> 939.54] who looks at you -[939.54 --> 940.18] and says, -[940.58 --> 942.28] you are mine. -[945.32 --> 946.40] And with that -[946.40 --> 948.34] new creation -[948.34 --> 949.68] reality in front -[949.68 --> 950.02] of us, -[950.10 --> 951.08] James makes -[951.08 --> 951.88] a connection -[951.88 --> 952.80] between what -[952.80 --> 953.68] you say -[953.68 --> 955.04] and keeping -[955.04 --> 956.06] your whole body -[956.06 --> 956.74] in check. -[957.86 --> 957.98] Right? -[958.06 --> 958.70] Anyone who -[958.70 --> 960.20] is never at fault -[960.20 --> 961.04] in what they -[961.04 --> 962.70] say is perfect, -[962.88 --> 963.58] able to keep -[963.58 --> 964.52] their whole body -[964.52 --> 965.38] in check. -[965.38 --> 965.76] And look, -[966.38 --> 966.70] again, -[966.84 --> 967.80] this isn't about -[967.80 --> 968.42] you needing -[968.42 --> 969.34] to be perfect. -[969.56 --> 969.62] Right? -[969.68 --> 970.28] James has already -[970.28 --> 970.96] made the point -[970.96 --> 971.88] by saying that -[971.88 --> 972.64] we all stumble -[972.64 --> 973.68] in many ways. -[973.78 --> 974.08] Instead, -[974.22 --> 974.94] James' point -[974.94 --> 976.30] is that keeping -[976.30 --> 977.04] in check -[977.04 --> 978.16] what you say -[978.16 --> 979.32] is the barometer -[979.32 --> 980.30] for the rest -[980.30 --> 980.96] of your life. -[981.76 --> 981.90] Right? -[981.90 --> 982.38] If you have -[982.38 --> 982.98] the spiritual -[982.98 --> 983.50] discipline -[983.50 --> 984.16] to check -[984.16 --> 984.80] your tongue, -[985.00 --> 985.48] you have -[985.48 --> 986.16] the spiritual -[986.16 --> 986.76] discipline -[986.76 --> 987.76] to rule -[987.76 --> 988.30] the rest -[988.30 --> 989.00] of your life -[989.00 --> 989.88] and body. -[991.80 --> 992.50] Look, -[992.56 --> 992.96] it's a -[992.96 --> 995.22] real simple -[995.22 --> 996.34] example. -[997.52 --> 998.58] But say -[998.58 --> 999.34] you have -[999.34 --> 1000.12] an area -[1000.12 --> 1001.00] of your life -[1001.00 --> 1001.52] that you are -[1001.52 --> 1002.44] really struggling -[1002.44 --> 1003.54] to bring -[1003.54 --> 1004.48] into submission -[1004.48 --> 1005.06] to Jesus. -[1006.06 --> 1006.56] Maybe it's -[1006.56 --> 1006.94] an area -[1006.94 --> 1008.02] of sexuality -[1008.02 --> 1008.74] or sexual -[1008.74 --> 1009.24] activity, -[1009.64 --> 1010.08] maybe it's -[1010.08 --> 1010.54] substances, -[1010.80 --> 1011.24] maybe it's -[1011.24 --> 1011.76] gossip. -[1012.48 --> 1012.60] Right? -[1012.66 --> 1013.36] Whatever it is -[1013.36 --> 1013.84] for you, -[1013.94 --> 1014.52] it doesn't matter. -[1014.62 --> 1014.72] Well, -[1015.64 --> 1016.68] it does matter, -[1016.68 --> 1017.26] of course it -[1017.26 --> 1017.62] matters, -[1017.82 --> 1018.34] but for the -[1018.34 --> 1018.82] purposes of -[1018.82 --> 1019.24] this example, -[1019.32 --> 1019.64] it doesn't -[1019.64 --> 1019.98] matter. -[1020.34 --> 1021.34] Whatever it is, -[1021.72 --> 1022.26] what is the -[1022.26 --> 1023.36] first thing -[1023.36 --> 1024.42] that we always -[1024.42 --> 1025.34] do with our -[1025.34 --> 1025.60] sin? -[1027.60 --> 1028.52] We justify -[1028.52 --> 1029.00] it to -[1029.00 --> 1029.50] ourselves. -[1030.76 --> 1031.72] We convince -[1031.72 --> 1032.42] ourselves -[1032.42 --> 1033.54] with words, -[1033.94 --> 1034.12] right, -[1034.24 --> 1035.20] spoken or -[1035.20 --> 1035.90] whispered in -[1035.90 --> 1036.36] our minds, -[1036.62 --> 1037.26] we convince -[1037.26 --> 1038.16] ourselves that -[1038.16 --> 1038.60] there's no -[1038.60 --> 1039.22] other option, -[1039.48 --> 1039.76] that there's -[1039.76 --> 1040.50] no better way -[1040.50 --> 1040.88] or there's -[1040.88 --> 1041.46] no way to -[1041.46 --> 1042.00] stop it, -[1042.04 --> 1042.30] and so I -[1042.30 --> 1042.68] just really -[1042.68 --> 1043.12] have to be -[1043.12 --> 1043.56] careful, -[1043.86 --> 1043.96] right, -[1043.96 --> 1044.22] I have to -[1044.22 --> 1045.02] manage it -[1045.02 --> 1045.54] just so it -[1045.54 --> 1046.10] doesn't rule -[1046.10 --> 1046.30] me, -[1046.30 --> 1046.66] but I can -[1046.66 --> 1046.92] still, -[1046.98 --> 1047.34] you know, -[1047.58 --> 1048.30] engage every -[1048.30 --> 1048.60] once in a -[1048.60 --> 1048.66] while. -[1048.74 --> 1049.14] We tell -[1049.14 --> 1049.74] ourselves that -[1049.74 --> 1050.16] it's less -[1050.16 --> 1050.68] of a deal -[1050.68 --> 1051.24] than we -[1051.24 --> 1051.60] know it -[1051.60 --> 1052.24] truly is, -[1052.36 --> 1052.92] and so we -[1052.92 --> 1053.42] keep on -[1053.42 --> 1053.94] going in -[1053.94 --> 1054.42] our sin, -[1054.60 --> 1054.96] we keep -[1054.96 --> 1055.38] on going -[1055.38 --> 1055.72] in our -[1055.72 --> 1056.16] stumbling, -[1057.06 --> 1057.76] and maybe -[1057.76 --> 1058.78] the first -[1058.78 --> 1059.36] step to -[1059.36 --> 1060.00] overcoming -[1060.00 --> 1060.98] is to start -[1060.98 --> 1061.78] telling yourself -[1061.78 --> 1062.26] a different -[1062.26 --> 1062.98] story, -[1063.80 --> 1064.02] right, -[1064.10 --> 1064.58] preach a -[1064.58 --> 1065.06] true and -[1065.06 --> 1066.10] better gospel -[1066.10 --> 1066.78] to ourselves, -[1067.00 --> 1067.86] stop preaching -[1067.86 --> 1068.84] shame and -[1068.84 --> 1069.22] guilt, -[1069.58 --> 1070.20] start preaching -[1070.20 --> 1070.84] hope and -[1070.84 --> 1071.44] new life. -[1072.52 --> 1072.94] I really -[1072.94 --> 1073.54] believe that -[1073.54 --> 1074.20] part of why -[1074.20 --> 1074.94] we stay -[1074.94 --> 1075.98] stuck, -[1075.98 --> 1076.98] is because -[1076.98 --> 1077.30] of the -[1077.30 --> 1077.78] words we -[1077.78 --> 1078.72] tell ourselves -[1078.72 --> 1079.36] and because -[1079.36 --> 1079.64] of the -[1079.64 --> 1080.10] words that -[1080.10 --> 1080.60] are spoken -[1080.60 --> 1081.32] to us -[1081.32 --> 1082.14] or about -[1082.14 --> 1082.52] us. -[1083.96 --> 1084.80] But James -[1084.80 --> 1085.50] is saying -[1085.50 --> 1086.42] that the -[1086.42 --> 1087.32] tongue has -[1087.32 --> 1087.90] the power -[1087.90 --> 1088.62] to control -[1088.62 --> 1089.22] the rest -[1089.22 --> 1090.24] of the body -[1090.24 --> 1090.94] and it -[1090.94 --> 1092.12] starts with -[1092.12 --> 1092.56] what you -[1092.56 --> 1093.64] tell yourself -[1093.64 --> 1094.96] and what you -[1094.96 --> 1095.48] are telling -[1095.48 --> 1096.38] others about -[1096.38 --> 1096.96] themselves. -[1097.96 --> 1099.02] Remember where -[1099.02 --> 1100.12] we started -[1100.12 --> 1100.52] this, -[1100.58 --> 1100.70] right, -[1100.70 --> 1101.56] do your -[1101.56 --> 1102.72] words inspire -[1102.72 --> 1103.86] faithfulness -[1103.86 --> 1104.60] in your -[1104.60 --> 1105.12] hearers? -[1106.12 --> 1106.62] Does what -[1106.62 --> 1107.44] you say -[1107.44 --> 1108.58] to yourself -[1108.58 --> 1110.02] about yourself -[1110.02 --> 1110.62] inspire -[1110.62 --> 1111.64] faithfulness -[1111.64 --> 1112.50] in you? -[1113.70 --> 1114.28] And so in -[1114.28 --> 1114.78] this text, -[1114.94 --> 1116.06] James uses -[1116.06 --> 1117.50] three examples -[1117.50 --> 1118.24] to underscore -[1118.24 --> 1119.30] this important -[1119.30 --> 1119.80] point, -[1120.20 --> 1120.38] right? -[1120.48 --> 1121.34] He pictures -[1121.34 --> 1122.16] for you a -[1122.16 --> 1123.02] huge horse -[1123.02 --> 1124.08] that is running -[1124.08 --> 1125.10] at a full -[1125.10 --> 1125.82] gallop and it -[1125.82 --> 1126.70] can be steered -[1126.70 --> 1127.46] by a tiny -[1127.46 --> 1128.64] little bit -[1128.64 --> 1130.08] or a giant -[1130.08 --> 1131.10] ship that -[1131.10 --> 1131.86] can be turned -[1131.86 --> 1132.52] by a very -[1132.52 --> 1133.78] small rudder -[1133.78 --> 1135.16] or a spark -[1135.16 --> 1135.82] that lights -[1135.82 --> 1136.40] the whole -[1136.40 --> 1138.12] forest ablaze. -[1138.24 --> 1138.80] That's the -[1138.80 --> 1140.00] power of -[1140.00 --> 1140.54] the tongue, -[1140.82 --> 1140.94] right? -[1140.98 --> 1141.76] It can steer -[1141.76 --> 1142.32] your life -[1142.32 --> 1142.64] and your -[1142.64 --> 1143.16] interactions -[1143.16 --> 1143.98] and can set -[1143.98 --> 1144.54] your course -[1144.54 --> 1145.16] and it can -[1145.16 --> 1145.92] burn all -[1145.92 --> 1146.70] your relationships -[1146.70 --> 1147.44] to the ground. -[1149.42 --> 1149.96] James goes -[1149.96 --> 1150.60] even further -[1150.60 --> 1151.84] and I think -[1151.84 --> 1152.48] this is easy -[1152.48 --> 1153.48] for many of us -[1153.48 --> 1153.90] to miss -[1153.90 --> 1154.36] when we read -[1154.36 --> 1154.88] this text -[1154.88 --> 1155.46] and I say -[1155.46 --> 1155.80] that because -[1155.80 --> 1156.26] it was easy -[1156.26 --> 1156.74] for me to -[1156.74 --> 1157.08] miss the -[1157.08 --> 1157.44] first few -[1157.44 --> 1157.80] times I -[1157.80 --> 1158.24] read it. -[1160.74 --> 1161.44] James says -[1161.44 --> 1162.18] in verse 6, -[1163.18 --> 1163.58] the tongue -[1163.58 --> 1164.24] corrupts -[1164.24 --> 1164.58] the whole -[1164.58 --> 1164.98] body, -[1165.50 --> 1165.92] sets the -[1165.92 --> 1166.54] whole course -[1166.54 --> 1167.02] of one's -[1167.02 --> 1168.42] life on -[1168.42 --> 1169.04] fire and -[1169.04 --> 1170.00] is itself -[1170.00 --> 1171.10] set on -[1171.10 --> 1172.36] fire by -[1172.36 --> 1173.58] hell. -[1174.86 --> 1175.02] Right? -[1175.06 --> 1175.30] Look at -[1175.30 --> 1175.88] verse 9, -[1176.14 --> 1176.34] right? -[1176.46 --> 1177.00] And tie -[1177.00 --> 1177.36] these two -[1177.36 --> 1177.72] together. -[1177.86 --> 1178.18] With the -[1178.18 --> 1178.64] tongue we -[1178.64 --> 1179.18] praise our -[1179.18 --> 1179.72] Lord and -[1179.72 --> 1180.30] Father and -[1180.30 --> 1180.88] with it we -[1180.88 --> 1181.54] curse human -[1181.54 --> 1181.98] beings. -[1182.32 --> 1182.76] Out of the -[1182.76 --> 1183.32] same mouth -[1183.32 --> 1184.28] comes praise -[1184.28 --> 1185.84] or cursing. -[1186.18 --> 1187.06] Your words -[1187.06 --> 1188.56] literally speak -[1188.56 --> 1189.84] hell or -[1189.84 --> 1190.42] they speak -[1190.42 --> 1190.78] heaven. -[1191.98 --> 1193.02] Your words -[1193.02 --> 1193.92] speak praises -[1193.92 --> 1195.20] or curses. -[1195.42 --> 1196.00] They're not -[1196.00 --> 1196.48] neutral. -[1197.10 --> 1197.22] Right? -[1197.28 --> 1197.86] Your tongue -[1197.86 --> 1199.12] isn't neutral. -[1199.48 --> 1200.06] With it you -[1200.06 --> 1201.00] speak life -[1201.00 --> 1202.36] or you speak -[1202.36 --> 1203.00] death. -[1204.74 --> 1205.74] Listen to how -[1205.74 --> 1206.48] Proverbs -[1206.48 --> 1207.22] puts it. -[1208.28 --> 1208.98] Proverbs 18 -[1208.98 --> 1209.54] verse 21 -[1209.54 --> 1209.92] says, -[1209.92 --> 1210.88] the tongue -[1210.88 --> 1211.40] has the -[1211.40 --> 1212.08] power of -[1212.08 --> 1212.76] life and -[1212.76 --> 1213.50] death and -[1213.50 --> 1214.10] those who -[1214.10 --> 1214.64] love it -[1214.64 --> 1215.34] eat its -[1215.34 --> 1215.94] fruit. -[1216.04 --> 1216.54] Or Jesus -[1216.54 --> 1217.14] gives the -[1217.14 --> 1217.56] same sort -[1217.56 --> 1218.00] of idea -[1218.00 --> 1218.34] when he -[1218.34 --> 1219.26] says in -[1219.26 --> 1219.78] Luke 6, -[1219.90 --> 1220.44] the mouth -[1220.44 --> 1221.36] speaks what -[1221.36 --> 1221.88] the heart -[1221.88 --> 1223.34] is full -[1223.34 --> 1223.68] of. -[1223.92 --> 1224.18] And so -[1224.18 --> 1224.70] is your -[1224.70 --> 1225.46] heart full -[1225.46 --> 1226.04] of heaven -[1226.04 --> 1226.72] or is your -[1226.72 --> 1227.38] heart full -[1227.38 --> 1227.96] of hell? -[1228.22 --> 1228.90] Your words -[1228.90 --> 1229.34] will tell -[1229.34 --> 1229.62] me. -[1230.84 --> 1231.56] Will you -[1231.56 --> 1232.36] speak life -[1232.36 --> 1233.46] or will -[1233.46 --> 1233.94] you speak -[1233.94 --> 1234.32] death? -[1236.98 --> 1237.78] In my -[1237.78 --> 1239.62] house we -[1239.62 --> 1240.02] have taken -[1240.02 --> 1241.20] this proverb -[1241.20 --> 1241.92] to heart -[1241.92 --> 1242.34] and we've -[1242.34 --> 1242.68] turned it -[1242.68 --> 1243.28] into a -[1243.28 --> 1244.08] thing for -[1244.08 --> 1244.62] our kids -[1244.62 --> 1245.30] and for -[1245.30 --> 1245.62] how we -[1245.62 --> 1246.04] talk to -[1246.04 --> 1246.42] each other. -[1246.72 --> 1247.06] And my -[1247.06 --> 1247.78] kids probably -[1247.78 --> 1248.30] get sick -[1248.30 --> 1248.90] of it for -[1248.90 --> 1249.04] me. -[1249.08 --> 1249.40] In fact I -[1249.40 --> 1249.80] know they -[1249.80 --> 1250.22] do because -[1250.22 --> 1250.88] every time -[1250.88 --> 1251.78] my eight-year-old -[1251.78 --> 1252.32] daughter rolls -[1252.32 --> 1252.88] her eyes -[1252.88 --> 1254.02] when I say -[1254.02 --> 1254.22] it. -[1255.68 --> 1256.06] But when -[1256.06 --> 1256.72] someone says -[1256.72 --> 1257.48] something mean -[1257.48 --> 1258.34] or hurtful, -[1258.72 --> 1259.26] when someone -[1259.26 --> 1260.40] needlessly yells -[1260.40 --> 1261.50] or says an -[1261.50 --> 1261.92] inappropriate -[1261.92 --> 1262.56] word, you -[1262.56 --> 1262.98] will hear -[1262.98 --> 1263.68] either me -[1263.68 --> 1264.30] or Rachel, -[1264.42 --> 1264.88] my wife, -[1265.08 --> 1266.30] say words -[1266.30 --> 1266.82] of -[1266.82 --> 1266.88] life, -[1267.48 --> 1268.22] my kids -[1268.22 --> 1268.64] are probably -[1268.64 --> 1269.28] finishing that -[1269.28 --> 1269.80] sentence right -[1269.80 --> 1270.58] now and I'll -[1270.58 --> 1270.96] wait for them -[1270.96 --> 1271.44] to say it, -[1271.62 --> 1272.14] they say -[1272.14 --> 1273.16] life, -[1273.88 --> 1274.66] words of -[1274.66 --> 1275.54] life. -[1275.86 --> 1276.28] And I will -[1276.28 --> 1276.64] ask, -[1277.02 --> 1277.66] is what you -[1277.66 --> 1278.62] said bringing -[1278.62 --> 1279.92] life or is -[1279.92 --> 1280.32] it bringing -[1280.32 --> 1282.14] death to -[1282.14 --> 1282.50] your brother -[1282.50 --> 1283.00] or sister? -[1284.04 --> 1284.66] Because we -[1284.66 --> 1285.68] want life and -[1285.68 --> 1286.04] we want to -[1286.04 --> 1287.12] speak words -[1287.12 --> 1287.82] of life and -[1287.82 --> 1288.20] we need to -[1288.20 --> 1288.90] be reminded -[1288.90 --> 1289.62] that our -[1289.62 --> 1290.14] tongue has -[1290.14 --> 1290.86] the power of -[1290.86 --> 1291.38] life and -[1291.38 --> 1291.80] death, of -[1291.80 --> 1292.90] heaven and -[1292.90 --> 1293.56] hell in it. -[1294.42 --> 1295.14] And we need -[1295.14 --> 1295.88] to be encouraged -[1295.88 --> 1296.82] to speak -[1296.82 --> 1297.74] life. -[1298.88 --> 1299.60] Sticks and -[1299.60 --> 1300.20] stones may -[1300.20 --> 1300.70] break my -[1300.70 --> 1301.20] bones but -[1301.20 --> 1301.76] words will -[1301.76 --> 1302.24] never hurt -[1302.24 --> 1303.44] me is just -[1303.44 --> 1304.28] patently -[1304.28 --> 1305.04] wrong. -[1306.84 --> 1307.40] Words -[1307.40 --> 1308.88] speak life -[1308.88 --> 1310.32] or they -[1310.32 --> 1310.92] speak death. -[1312.00 --> 1312.82] Tongue has -[1312.82 --> 1313.62] the power of -[1313.62 --> 1314.78] heaven and -[1314.78 --> 1316.06] hell in it. -[1316.54 --> 1316.96] What will -[1316.96 --> 1317.40] it be? -[1319.06 --> 1320.04] The next time -[1320.04 --> 1320.76] you are about -[1320.76 --> 1321.46] to post on -[1321.46 --> 1322.32] Facebook or -[1322.32 --> 1323.06] to comment on -[1323.06 --> 1323.70] a video or -[1323.70 --> 1324.42] to react to -[1324.42 --> 1325.32] some TikTok, -[1325.78 --> 1326.52] the next time -[1326.52 --> 1327.30] you are -[1327.30 --> 1327.96] tempted to -[1327.96 --> 1328.90] tell someone -[1328.90 --> 1330.12] else's story, -[1330.82 --> 1331.48] let's be clear, -[1331.54 --> 1332.06] that's gossip -[1332.06 --> 1333.06] folks, when -[1333.06 --> 1333.46] you're tempted -[1333.46 --> 1334.16] to tell someone -[1334.16 --> 1334.78] else's story, -[1334.86 --> 1335.28] the next time -[1335.28 --> 1336.08] you are teaching -[1336.08 --> 1336.94] your kids or -[1336.94 --> 1338.06] talking to your -[1338.06 --> 1338.96] boss, ask -[1338.96 --> 1340.14] yourself, is -[1340.14 --> 1341.00] what I am -[1341.00 --> 1342.18] about to say -[1342.18 --> 1343.98] inspiring faithfulness -[1343.98 --> 1345.48] to Jesus in me -[1345.48 --> 1346.22] and in my -[1346.22 --> 1346.66] hearers? -[1346.66 --> 1349.08] the way you -[1349.08 --> 1350.16] talk to -[1350.16 --> 1350.76] others and -[1350.76 --> 1351.52] yes to -[1351.52 --> 1353.02] yourself is -[1353.02 --> 1353.68] the barometer -[1353.68 --> 1354.76] of your -[1354.76 --> 1355.06] faith. -[1356.42 --> 1357.16] Look, this is -[1357.16 --> 1357.68] where I'll end -[1357.68 --> 1359.12] and I'll use -[1359.12 --> 1359.98] the language of -[1359.98 --> 1360.56] verse 11 and -[1360.56 --> 1360.80] 12. -[1363.26 --> 1363.96] When your -[1363.96 --> 1364.88] faith is real -[1364.88 --> 1365.92] and really -[1365.92 --> 1366.82] real, when -[1366.82 --> 1367.42] your faith is -[1367.42 --> 1368.36] real, it means -[1368.36 --> 1368.90] that you have -[1368.90 --> 1369.66] drunk deeply -[1369.66 --> 1370.64] of the living -[1370.64 --> 1371.74] water that is -[1371.74 --> 1372.74] Jesus Christ -[1372.74 --> 1374.96] and so stop -[1374.96 --> 1376.22] being salty in -[1376.22 --> 1376.86] your speech. -[1378.04 --> 1379.12] Instead, imagine -[1379.12 --> 1379.90] what it would -[1379.90 --> 1380.60] look like for -[1380.60 --> 1381.70] every person to -[1381.70 --> 1382.28] leave a -[1382.28 --> 1383.24] conversation with -[1383.24 --> 1384.34] you, regardless -[1384.34 --> 1385.00] of what its -[1385.00 --> 1385.86] content might -[1385.86 --> 1386.38] have been, -[1386.78 --> 1387.84] feeling refreshed -[1387.84 --> 1389.08] and renewed -[1389.08 --> 1390.64] like a cold -[1390.64 --> 1391.46] glass of water -[1391.46 --> 1392.24] on a hot -[1392.24 --> 1392.80] summer's day. -[1393.86 --> 1394.86] We can disagree, -[1395.38 --> 1396.00] we can have -[1396.00 --> 1396.98] hard conversations, -[1397.26 --> 1397.94] we can even -[1397.94 --> 1398.72] get angry, we -[1398.72 --> 1399.40] can be frustrated, -[1399.72 --> 1400.34] we can lament -[1400.34 --> 1401.26] and we can cry -[1401.26 --> 1402.10] out, but the -[1402.10 --> 1403.14] way that we -[1403.14 --> 1404.16] do that, the -[1404.16 --> 1404.98] words that you -[1404.98 --> 1405.84] use and the -[1405.84 --> 1406.20] meaning you -[1406.22 --> 1407.74] make matters. -[1409.76 --> 1410.12] And as -[1410.12 --> 1411.86] Christians in -[1411.86 --> 1413.16] the world, you -[1413.16 --> 1414.54] are a source -[1414.54 --> 1415.72] of renewal -[1415.72 --> 1417.14] and encouragement -[1417.14 --> 1418.44] to those around -[1418.44 --> 1418.72] you. -[1420.00 --> 1420.96] Christians gotta -[1420.96 --> 1422.24] be different. -[1424.06 --> 1424.54] And if we -[1424.54 --> 1426.52] talked, and if -[1426.52 --> 1426.98] the language -[1426.98 --> 1427.88] that we used -[1427.88 --> 1429.74] was picked -[1429.74 --> 1430.82] for us and -[1430.82 --> 1431.88] by us with -[1431.88 --> 1432.72] the goal of -[1432.72 --> 1434.46] inspiring faithfulness -[1434.46 --> 1435.40] to Jesus, -[1435.86 --> 1436.96] bringing renewal -[1436.96 --> 1438.00] and refreshment -[1438.00 --> 1438.46] with our -[1438.46 --> 1438.84] words, -[1440.68 --> 1441.16] oh man, -[1442.10 --> 1443.22] that would -[1443.22 --> 1443.74] be -[1443.74 --> 1445.08] different. -[1446.40 --> 1447.00] Amen? -[1447.00 --> 1447.10] Amen. -[1448.10 --> 1448.84] Amen. -[1449.20 --> 1449.92] Let's pray together. -[1449.92 --> 1458.42] Lord our God, -[1458.50 --> 1458.82] may the -[1458.82 --> 1459.52] meditations of -[1459.52 --> 1459.92] our heart -[1459.92 --> 1460.56] and the -[1460.56 --> 1461.58] words of -[1461.58 --> 1462.94] our mouth -[1462.94 --> 1464.82] be glorifying -[1464.82 --> 1466.04] to you. -[1468.86 --> 1470.34] Fix our eyes -[1470.34 --> 1471.30] so fully -[1471.30 --> 1472.10] on you, -[1472.40 --> 1473.02] Lord Jesus. -[1473.02 --> 1476.30] cause us to -[1476.30 --> 1477.16] drink so -[1477.16 --> 1478.34] deeply of the -[1478.34 --> 1479.06] living waters -[1479.06 --> 1480.20] of your gospel -[1480.20 --> 1480.88] truth -[1480.88 --> 1484.10] that from -[1484.10 --> 1486.00] us pours -[1486.00 --> 1487.92] out that -[1487.92 --> 1488.72] same living -[1488.72 --> 1490.12] water of speech -[1490.12 --> 1491.28] for refreshment -[1491.28 --> 1492.52] and renewal. -[1494.42 --> 1495.84] May the very -[1495.84 --> 1497.36] words we speak -[1497.36 --> 1498.18] inspire -[1498.18 --> 1499.50] faithfulness -[1499.50 --> 1500.92] to you, -[1501.24 --> 1501.68] Lord Jesus, -[1502.62 --> 1503.28] and all -[1503.28 --> 1504.12] those whom -[1504.12 --> 1504.66] we meet, -[1505.58 --> 1506.16] with all -[1506.16 --> 1507.20] those whom -[1507.20 --> 1507.94] we interact. -[1509.38 --> 1509.96] Whatever -[1509.96 --> 1511.00] context we -[1511.00 --> 1511.58] may find -[1511.58 --> 1512.32] ourselves in -[1512.32 --> 1512.88] in the days -[1512.88 --> 1513.30] and weeks -[1513.30 --> 1513.82] and months -[1513.82 --> 1514.34] to come, -[1515.68 --> 1516.08] may our -[1516.08 --> 1516.86] language -[1516.86 --> 1520.30] utter words -[1520.30 --> 1521.40] of praise -[1521.40 --> 1522.40] be you. -[1523.40 --> 1523.88] In Christ -[1523.88 --> 1524.38] we pray. -[1525.56 --> 1525.90] Amen. diff --git a/Use Your Talents (Sermon)_summary.txt b/Use Your Talents (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0179182cdcd35a4026909ca1c886ec2cf23f1113..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Use Your Talents (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,23 +0,0 @@ -• The speaker reviews a parable from the Gospel of Matthew (chapter 25) called "the parables of the kingdom" -• Three parables are discussed: the ten virgins, the sheep and the goats, and the talents -• The parable of the talents is about a master who gives different amounts of money to his servants before leaving on a journey -• The servants are rewarded or punished based on how they manage the given money -• The speaker discusses the parable in relation to the idea that children should earn their own money and face challenges, rather than receiving a large inheritance -• The speaker describes a hypothetical child who inherits wealth from their father and doesn't face challenges or ordinary life experiences -• The speaker compares this scenario to the Christian concept of being rich in spiritual blessings, which includes forgiveness, promise of resurrection, and gifts of the Spirit -• The speaker notes that while we are spiritually rich, God also puts us to work and expects effort, using the parable of the talents as an example -• The parable of the talents and its application to using our abilities and resources for God's purposes -• The concept that no risk, no reward applies to talents and abilities given by God -• The example of three servants who were given different amounts of money and their varying reactions to it -• The idea that the gifts of the Spirit (such as love, joy, peace) are not gifts we get for free but rather seed money that should produce good in the world and in others -• A hypothetical scenario where one becomes suddenly rich and must consider what they would do with it -• Travel plans for the weekend -• The parable of the talents and its application to everyday life -• Using one's gifts and talents to benefit others -• Story of a pastor hearing a memorable sermon about envy and humility -• Connection between Jesus' parable and modern-day experiences with envy and pride -• The two-talent servant, an ordinary and average person, uses their talents as the master wants -• They will receive the same praise from the master as the five-talent servant -• The two-talent servant is faithful with what they have and makes a difference in their community -• Each individual has been gifted by God with unique talents to use for good and glory -• Jealousy and envy are not to be wasted on comparing oneself to others, but rather using one's gifts to bless others \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Use Your Talents (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/Use Your Talents (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 0a327487ffdaf7ab5a0cda0a8298a717f17161ce..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Use Your Talents (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,358 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 9.16] Well, good morning again. I understand my microphone was off the last time. Are we good now? Okay, excellent. -[10.22 --> 16.48] Okay, last week we were together and we read a parable from the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 13. -[17.14 --> 21.20] And those are that 13th chapter of Matthew often called the parables of the kingdom. -[21.44 --> 26.48] You know, the sower went out to sow and that's what the kingdom was like and parables of that type. -[26.48 --> 29.54] But this time we're going to read from chapter 25. -[30.44 --> 36.02] And again, it's a whole chapter of parables and three parables to be exact. -[36.82 --> 41.72] And I guess what holds these three together is in each of these parables, -[41.90 --> 47.04] people are kind of waiting for an important person to come. -[47.42 --> 52.70] So the first is the parable of the ten virgins and some are foolish and some are wise, -[52.70 --> 56.60] some are prepared and some are not. They are waiting for the bridegroom. -[57.52 --> 61.26] The last of these chapters is about, of these parables of the sheep and the goats. -[61.76 --> 67.66] And that, this very important person, the son of man has arrived and he divides the sheep from the goats. -[67.86 --> 69.86] And you may know that story as well. -[70.24 --> 73.38] But in the middle, there is a parable we're going to read this morning. -[74.08 --> 80.44] And in most of translations of the Bible, older translations, it's called the parable of the talents. -[80.44 --> 85.10] Now, in the translation you're going to see on the screen and may have it open at home, -[85.62 --> 88.36] it's called the parable of the bags of gold. -[88.94 --> 93.98] So the word talent has been replaced by the term bags of gold. -[94.42 --> 96.18] Now, I'm not terribly fond of that. -[97.36 --> 102.44] A talent was an exact unit of money, like a dollar or a euro or that sort of thing. -[102.50 --> 106.08] It was a very large amount of money and I'll get to that later on. -[106.08 --> 110.44] So what I'm going to do here is when that term bags of gold shows up, -[110.70 --> 116.12] I'm going to replace it with the original term talents, which is all the way back to the Greek original. -[116.66 --> 119.58] But let's read the story, the parable of the talents. -[119.58 --> 127.12] Again, said Jesus, it will be like a man going on a journey who called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them. -[127.94 --> 135.08] To one he gave five talents, to another two talents, and to another one, each according to his ability. -[135.98 --> 137.68] Then he went on his journey. -[138.80 --> 144.84] The man who had received five talents went out at once and put his money to work and gained five more. -[144.84 --> 148.62] So also the one with two talents gained two more. -[149.40 --> 155.28] But the man who received one talent went off, dug a hole in the ground, and hid his master's money. -[157.00 --> 161.42] After a long time, the master of these servants returned and settled accounts with them. -[161.94 --> 165.42] The man who had received five talents brought the other five. -[165.54 --> 168.60] Master, he said, you have entrusted me with five talents. -[168.74 --> 170.54] See, I have gained five more. -[170.54 --> 174.88] His master replied, well done, good and faithful servant. -[175.32 --> 177.20] You have been faithful with a few things. -[177.32 --> 179.62] I will put you in charge of many things. -[179.74 --> 181.86] Come and share your master's happiness. -[183.22 --> 185.44] The man with two bags of gold also came. -[185.58 --> 188.24] Master, he said, you entrusted me with two bags of gold. -[188.86 --> 190.70] See, I have gained two more. -[191.72 --> 194.38] The master replied, well done, good and faithful servant. -[194.48 --> 196.18] You have been faithful with a few things. -[196.52 --> 198.68] I will put you in charge of many things. -[198.68 --> 201.08] Come and share your master's happiness. -[202.46 --> 205.10] Then the man who had received one talent came. -[205.64 --> 214.62] Master, he said, I knew that you are a hard man, harvesting where you have not sown, gathering where you have not scattered seed. -[215.06 --> 218.22] So I was afraid and went out and hid your talent. -[218.80 --> 221.06] See, here is what belongs to you. -[222.16 --> 224.70] The master replied, you wicked, lazy servant. -[224.70 --> 229.22] So you knew that I harvest where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed. -[229.92 --> 236.40] Well, then you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers so that when I returned, I would have received it back with interest. -[236.40 --> 243.48] So, take the bag of gold, the talent from him who has, and give it to the one who has ten. -[244.30 --> 247.68] For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. -[248.30 --> 252.04] Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. -[252.10 --> 259.50] And now, throw that worthless servant outside into the darkness where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. -[259.50 --> 261.66] This is the word of the Lord. -[263.10 --> 270.38] You know, I read something interesting once about very, very wealthy people and their children. -[271.50 --> 280.16] It seems that some of the world's wealthiest people do not intend to leave their children all that much. -[280.16 --> 290.08] You know, Baron Hilton, who is the hotel tycoon, also the father of Paris Hilton, or the grandfather of Paris Hilton, -[290.58 --> 295.48] he once said that he planned to give 97% of his wealth away to charities. -[296.62 --> 299.30] So, granddaughter Paris would have to earn her own money. -[300.36 --> 301.82] And she did it. -[301.96 --> 306.56] She's done very well, actually, by kind of being Kim Kardashian before Kim Kardashian. -[306.72 --> 308.66] Sort of famous for being famous. -[308.66 --> 310.32] She's made a lot of money. -[311.48 --> 314.54] Then there's Warren Buffett, the investment guru. -[315.32 --> 322.38] He said that he planned to give 99% of his money away and that his children have to earn their own. -[323.36 --> 331.90] And from what I understand, one of his sons has gone into business like his dad and done very well and earned his own money. -[331.90 --> 343.56] Now, the thinking here is that you do not do your children a favor by just dropping a whole lot of money into their hands. -[343.56 --> 351.28] Because they will not have to face the ordinary challenges of life that ordinary people face. -[351.28 --> 354.08] And that will be damaging. -[355.04 --> 360.44] I mean, why work hard if you've got all this money coming at you anyways? -[360.44 --> 369.36] Why study hard so that you can get into a good school and earn a good degree? -[370.70 --> 371.88] You don't have to study hard. -[372.14 --> 376.34] Daddy will build a University of Science building and then they'll let me in anyways. -[376.34 --> 383.78] Why learn a trade and go work for 50 or 60 hours a week? -[384.16 --> 389.68] There's no job that can pay more than just inheriting your father's fortune. -[389.68 --> 398.84] So when you inherit all this money without any work, then there is no price for failure. -[399.00 --> 400.66] At least not a financial price. -[401.72 --> 406.98] But you don't face those challenges, those ordinary challenges of life. -[407.84 --> 410.14] Now, if you're like me, you can remember your first car. -[410.78 --> 414.84] You wanted that car so much because it would make you a grown-up. -[414.84 --> 422.72] And so you scraped together some money and you borrowed some more and you convinced your dad to co-sign the loan. -[423.04 --> 426.66] And you drove off that lot with your own set of wheels. -[426.98 --> 428.84] It was a wonderful milestone. -[430.96 --> 435.70] But if daddy has lots of money, he'll just give you a car when you're 16. -[436.34 --> 437.46] No challenge there. -[438.42 --> 442.98] Or think of that first house with the monster mortgage that has to be paid some now. -[442.98 --> 446.58] And you do that over years and years of working hard. -[447.96 --> 451.20] But when daddy has lots of money, you don't have to do any of that. -[451.72 --> 457.82] In fact, an ordinary life with the kind of ordinary achievements that you and I expect. -[458.12 --> 460.20] You know, you marry the person you love. -[460.28 --> 461.24] You buy the home. -[461.32 --> 462.92] You put the children in it. -[462.96 --> 464.18] You get them through school. -[464.40 --> 465.94] All of that sort of stuff. -[465.94 --> 475.04] It's almost like a come down when, you know, your father was going to give you this vast inheritance. -[475.86 --> 477.12] What can beat that? -[480.08 --> 486.08] Now, it might not seem obvious, but there's something of that going on in this story we just read. -[486.14 --> 487.50] There's something of that for us. -[487.50 --> 494.14] Because in our own particular way, we are very wealthy. -[495.34 --> 503.08] As followers of Jesus and children of the Heavenly Father, we are so blessed. -[503.90 --> 506.26] Or as the Apostle Paul would say, we are rich. -[507.14 --> 510.62] You know, he once told the Corinthians that Jesus was rich. -[510.62 --> 514.68] And yet, for our sakes, he became poor. -[515.38 --> 519.40] So that through his poverty, we might become rich. -[521.58 --> 526.56] Now, we are rich in a different sort of way, of course. -[526.74 --> 529.56] We are kind of spiritually rich. -[529.68 --> 535.42] We are rich in that we have the forgiveness of sins and the promise of resurrection. -[535.42 --> 544.64] We are rich in that we have a place in the new heaven and the new earth where there will be no mourning or crying or tears or pain anymore. -[545.12 --> 550.88] We are already rich in that we have the gifts of the Spirit and the fruit of the Spirit. -[551.10 --> 555.06] And all of this is given to us for free. -[558.18 --> 560.36] Paul once told the Ephesians. -[560.36 --> 561.92] He said, -[561.92 --> 564.94] By grace you are saved through faith. -[565.26 --> 567.50] And this is not your own doing. -[567.98 --> 570.08] It is a gift from God. -[570.54 --> 571.74] Not by works. -[572.04 --> 573.74] So that no one can boast. -[574.40 --> 578.70] So it's like he has to make the point and then make it again and make it again. -[579.66 --> 581.52] This is not your own doing. -[581.78 --> 583.42] It is a gift from God. -[583.70 --> 585.46] So that no one can boast. -[585.90 --> 589.12] We have so much given to us. -[589.12 --> 593.26] And boy, are we ever rich. -[595.92 --> 598.22] So what is there for us to do then? -[600.00 --> 604.04] It sort of looks like we can just coast along, right? -[605.22 --> 608.76] Because Jesus is taking care of everything for us. -[610.30 --> 617.40] Jesus, he preached good news to the poor and freedom to the prisoners and recovery of sight to the blind. -[617.40 --> 621.54] Jesus, he bore our griefs and carried our sorrows. -[621.76 --> 624.90] And he suffered the punishment that is our peace. -[625.82 --> 628.06] Jesus went into the darkness and he cried, -[628.42 --> 631.34] My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? -[631.44 --> 632.68] That's what he did for us. -[632.82 --> 636.62] And we can just stay back warm and safe with nothing to do. -[636.62 --> 640.36] Because God and Jesus will take care of it. -[641.64 --> 645.44] So you just have to believe and everything's okay. -[646.54 --> 648.72] And maybe you should go to church once in a while. -[648.72 --> 653.06] Well, how does that sound? -[654.02 --> 659.08] I mean, in a superficial way it sounds right, but only in a very superficial way. -[660.12 --> 666.86] Because God knows the challenges of people who get too much given to them for free -[666.86 --> 672.20] and have no challenges and no projects, no purpose in life. -[673.18 --> 679.22] God knows that people without a purpose in life will become unfocused and unhappy. -[680.82 --> 684.76] So God doesn't just make us rich in his blessings. -[686.40 --> 688.08] He also puts us to work. -[688.08 --> 691.52] And he expects some effort. -[694.58 --> 698.26] And we read the story of the talents or the bags of gold this morning. -[699.00 --> 703.74] Kingdom will be like a man going on a journey who called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them. -[704.46 --> 712.16] To one he gave five talents, to another two talents, and to another one, each according to his ability. -[712.16 --> 719.34] Now, the first thing I want you to notice here is that these three servants have been given their talents. -[720.84 --> 725.76] They are not being paid at the end of the day for work that they have done. -[725.86 --> 729.70] Work that they've completed, that's been inspected and improved. -[729.78 --> 731.76] Now here is your payment. -[732.22 --> 732.42] No. -[732.88 --> 738.66] They get this money at the beginning of the day before they have done anything. -[738.66 --> 745.54] So without lifting a finger, these three have become rich. -[746.56 --> 749.46] And actually, it's very, very rich. -[749.80 --> 750.44] A talent. -[750.80 --> 755.24] In biblical times, a talent was a huge amount of money. -[756.14 --> 763.68] I checked a Bible dictionary some time ago, and it told me that a talent in the Roman Empire times -[763.68 --> 770.20] would be worth about 16 years income for an ordinary working person. -[770.34 --> 771.58] 16 years income. -[772.92 --> 779.34] So if you went off and worked and started early and put in 48 years of hard work, -[779.38 --> 784.22] you can do the math, you would earn altogether three talents. -[784.22 --> 789.22] So these three servants have been given great wealth. -[790.96 --> 794.50] And now we wait and see what they do with that. -[795.48 --> 800.08] Well, as the story goes, the five-talent servant goes out and earns five more. -[800.22 --> 803.06] The two-talent servant goes out and earns two more. -[803.06 --> 813.28] And the third servant, he produces one talent and a dirty bag because he buried it in the ground. -[814.22 --> 819.54] There's a reason for that. -[820.56 --> 824.88] This third servant buried his talent in the ground because, as he told his boss, -[825.20 --> 826.78] you are a hard man. -[827.84 --> 829.52] In other words, you are a tough boss. -[830.90 --> 834.54] And this one talent servant has a theory about tough bosses. -[834.94 --> 837.12] They intimidate their workers. -[837.12 --> 845.22] And because they intimidate their workers, their workers are overly careful. -[846.90 --> 848.28] And you know how that goes? -[848.44 --> 849.28] Not very well. -[850.00 --> 852.96] No one is willing to take a risk. -[852.96 --> 860.70] Because if you take a risk and things go sideways and you lose money, the boss will pound on you. -[862.72 --> 866.36] And so, says the one talent servant, that's why I buried your talent in the ground. -[866.62 --> 870.58] I did not want to fail and get a pounding from you. -[870.74 --> 872.58] It is your fault, boss. -[873.22 --> 874.52] You intimidated me. -[874.52 --> 877.28] You created a hostile work environment. -[881.20 --> 885.08] But, as we know, the master would have none of that. -[886.38 --> 892.08] If you are given a talent, you must use that talent. -[892.98 --> 893.56] You must. -[893.56 --> 899.06] And here, the master is kind of using that old investor's line. -[899.22 --> 901.12] No risk, no reward. -[902.44 --> 905.10] If you take no risk, you earn nothing. -[905.86 --> 913.06] You must be willing to go out and use your talent and try to produce something good with it. -[915.32 --> 917.92] And in case, you look at the five talent man. -[918.00 --> 918.78] He earned five more. -[918.86 --> 919.96] The two talent earned two more. -[919.96 --> 923.60] Now, would they have always doubled their money every time? -[923.84 --> 924.92] Was there a guarantee? -[926.26 --> 927.88] Well, we don't hear anything about that. -[928.48 --> 929.54] But we do know one thing. -[929.74 --> 934.32] If they did nothing but bury their talent in the ground, they would produce nothing. -[935.34 --> 937.96] But they were willing to take a risk. -[940.56 --> 944.08] So, this is a parable about using our talents. -[944.08 --> 951.38] And in the context of Jesus' ministry, it's using our talents until Jesus returns. -[952.82 --> 956.96] We are deeply and powerfully blessed. -[958.00 --> 960.42] We have the forgiveness of our sins. -[961.08 --> 963.76] We have the promise of a new creation. -[963.96 --> 965.62] No eye has seen. -[965.74 --> 966.70] No ear has heard. -[967.02 --> 971.40] No mind can conceive what God has prepared for those who love Him. -[971.40 --> 976.24] And already now, we share the gifts of the Spirit and the fruit of the Spirit. -[976.36 --> 980.62] Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, goodness, self-control. -[980.76 --> 982.12] All gifts from God. -[984.32 --> 989.82] But just don't think of them as gifts we get for free. -[991.42 --> 993.26] Think of them as seed money. -[993.26 --> 994.46] Think of them as gifts. -[994.46 --> 994.98] Think of them as gifts. -[994.98 --> 1001.02] Something that should produce some good in the world and good in the lives of others. -[1005.44 --> 1017.82] Now, if you are like a lot of people in the world, you may have one day tried to imagine in your daydreams what you would do if you suddenly got into lots and lots of money. -[1017.82 --> 1022.78] Say, some very wealthy uncle passes. -[1023.38 --> 1025.76] A very wealthy bachelor uncle. -[1026.58 --> 1029.80] And when they open his will, your name is there. -[1030.50 --> 1034.16] And in fact, it's the only name in the will. -[1034.26 --> 1037.42] And suddenly you are rich beyond your wildest dreams. -[1037.48 --> 1039.34] Now, I would not count on that happening. -[1040.00 --> 1041.72] But just imagine it would. -[1041.72 --> 1047.94] It's one of those questions you sometimes ask just to help you sort out your priorities. -[1048.08 --> 1052.18] Sort of like the question, what would you do if you had only a year left to live? -[1052.28 --> 1053.26] That sort of thing. -[1053.34 --> 1058.60] So, what would you do if you suddenly became fabulously rich? -[1061.04 --> 1064.28] Well, I would guess you would have two little voices talking to you. -[1064.28 --> 1067.90] And one of those voices would say, live it up. -[1068.72 --> 1069.74] Live large. -[1070.96 --> 1072.64] Go to Vegas for the weekend. -[1072.84 --> 1073.98] Stay at the Taj Mahal. -[1074.10 --> 1075.08] Play the slots. -[1076.06 --> 1076.96] Take a cruise. -[1077.10 --> 1079.00] Once the cruise lines are going again. -[1079.98 --> 1081.08] Buy a palace. -[1082.56 --> 1083.26] Show off. -[1083.26 --> 1089.74] And the other voice would be saying to you, imagine. -[1089.90 --> 1094.48] Just think of all the good you can do with what you have been given. -[1095.58 --> 1098.84] You can send your children to a wonderful school. -[1099.70 --> 1104.42] You can send other children, underprivileged children, to a wonderful school. -[1105.12 --> 1109.80] You can pay for good wells in poor villages in poor nations of the world. -[1109.80 --> 1117.32] You can do so much good in the world with the gifts you've received. -[1119.32 --> 1123.94] Now, if we listen to Jesus' parable, we know which voice we have to listen to. -[1128.50 --> 1135.62] Now, every one of us is part of this story because every one of us has been given a talent or a gift. -[1137.00 --> 1139.28] Now, you may not feel particularly gifted. -[1139.28 --> 1147.84] You may sometimes find yourself looking up at a five-talent person and feeling a sense of envy because they can do so much more than you can. -[1148.28 --> 1151.76] But everyone who follows Jesus has been given a gift. -[1151.84 --> 1153.84] That is a biblical promise. -[1154.56 --> 1161.08] To follow Jesus is to receive a gift of the Spirit, and you can use it for the blessing of others. -[1161.08 --> 1162.08] Every one of us. -[1162.08 --> 1164.48] Every one of us. -[1167.36 --> 1175.48] You know, some years ago, I was a pastor in Duncan, in Vancouver Island, and I had a Sunday off. -[1176.24 --> 1178.06] Now, that did not happen very much at the time. -[1178.12 --> 1179.86] I was preaching almost all the time. -[1179.86 --> 1183.54] But every once in a while, I'd have a free Sunday. -[1184.50 --> 1189.74] And if you ask my kids, they'll tell you whenever Dad had a Sunday off, he didn't skip church. -[1189.78 --> 1190.46] He would go. -[1190.46 --> 1193.40] Or he might go to another church. -[1194.16 --> 1196.74] Because Dad would be starving for a sermon. -[1197.64 --> 1202.16] Not one that he would preach, but one that he would hear. -[1202.90 --> 1209.44] And if you preach a lot, the greatest pleasure is to sit in a pew and hear a wonderful sermon. -[1209.54 --> 1210.84] So I wanted that to happen. -[1210.96 --> 1212.24] So I didn't have to go far. -[1212.24 --> 1216.14] I went to the Presbyterian Church in Duncan. -[1217.18 --> 1219.06] And the pastor there was Kerry McIntyre. -[1219.16 --> 1221.42] We knew each other through the Ministerial Association. -[1222.40 --> 1226.10] And it was a very vibrant Presbyterian Church. -[1226.22 --> 1227.82] So I thought I would go. -[1229.58 --> 1231.32] But my timing was off. -[1231.48 --> 1235.48] Because when I got there, I found out that Pastor Kerry was also off that Sunday. -[1236.20 --> 1240.92] And in his place, we were going to have a retired Presbyterian pastor. -[1240.92 --> 1244.92] A very old, retired Presbyterian pastor. -[1245.10 --> 1246.12] And I thought, rats. -[1247.84 --> 1250.12] But that really wasn't fair. -[1251.54 --> 1255.64] This retired pastor turned out to be Pastor Kerry's father-in-law. -[1256.06 --> 1257.02] Which is fine. -[1257.38 --> 1259.54] He also turned out to be a real gem. -[1260.54 --> 1266.92] And he preached a sermon that I still remember more than 20 years after I heard it. -[1268.44 --> 1270.36] He read his scripture passage. -[1270.36 --> 1271.54] The parable of the talents. -[1271.76 --> 1272.98] So the same one we just read. -[1274.28 --> 1281.06] And then he told a story about attending this big conference for Presbyterian pastors and -[1281.06 --> 1284.98] church leaders in some church in a major city. -[1285.54 --> 1288.72] And he said this conference was held in a beautiful new church. -[1289.00 --> 1290.32] It was very well built. -[1290.44 --> 1292.10] It was very well equipped and appointed. -[1292.10 --> 1298.94] And, you know, this Pastor Kerry's father-in-law said he sat there in this church. -[1298.94 --> 1302.52] And he saw the host pastor over there getting all these compliments. -[1302.72 --> 1304.72] Beautiful building you have here, Pastor. -[1304.94 --> 1305.50] Wonderful. -[1305.50 --> 1309.64] And said, Pastor Kerry's father-in-law. -[1310.02 --> 1315.40] I sat in my chair and I was guilty of the sin of envy. -[1315.40 --> 1318.92] Why does he have so much? -[1318.92 --> 1320.76] It was such a beautiful place. -[1320.92 --> 1325.72] And I'm in my little building in my little town. -[1325.72 --> 1332.90] And then he said, this story, this story came into my mind. -[1333.64 --> 1336.78] And it was like a little voice of God speaking to me. -[1336.86 --> 1342.58] Sort of like that little voice of God that spoke to the prophet Elijah on a very bad day. -[1342.58 --> 1346.88] So he said, here's what we're going to do with this story. -[1347.62 --> 1351.28] We are not going to talk about the five-talent servant. -[1351.38 --> 1352.94] The one who went off and earned five more. -[1353.08 --> 1354.36] He is the superstar. -[1354.94 --> 1356.56] He is the head of the class. -[1356.82 --> 1358.04] He is the most popular. -[1358.42 --> 1363.04] He gets his names in all the church magazines because he does so well. -[1363.12 --> 1364.26] We're not going to talk about him. -[1365.98 --> 1370.02] Neither, he said, are we going to talk about the one-talent servant. -[1370.02 --> 1375.60] The one who buried his talent in the ground and blamed it on his boss. -[1376.68 --> 1377.86] He made me do it. -[1378.00 --> 1379.38] No, we're not going to talk about him either. -[1380.62 --> 1384.12] Instead, we're going to talk about the two-talent servant. -[1385.18 --> 1386.96] The ordinary one. -[1387.90 --> 1389.70] The average one. -[1391.14 --> 1392.82] Maybe slightly above average. -[1393.30 --> 1394.08] Slightly below. -[1394.22 --> 1395.98] But somewhere in the middle. -[1395.98 --> 1401.02] He said, this is not going to be your superstar. -[1401.98 --> 1404.30] He's not going to fly a private jet. -[1405.54 --> 1408.78] He's not going to be in the companion of the order of Canada. -[1409.42 --> 1412.76] If he's a pastor, he won't be building that mega church. -[1412.94 --> 1415.56] He'll just toil away in a modest one somewhere. -[1415.56 --> 1418.66] But you know something? -[1419.56 --> 1425.80] He is taking the talents he has and using them as the master wants him used. -[1425.80 --> 1436.78] And in the end, do you know what this two-talent servant will hear from his master? -[1437.40 --> 1444.62] He will hear exactly the same thing, word for word, that the master said to the five-talent servant. -[1445.04 --> 1448.02] He will say, well done, good and faithful servant. -[1448.32 --> 1450.14] You have been faithful with many things. -[1450.14 --> 1454.16] Some things I will give you many more. -[1454.54 --> 1457.68] Come and share your master's happiness. -[1459.12 --> 1461.08] So here is Mr. Ordinary. -[1462.00 --> 1468.16] He goes unnoticed in a crowd, except for the people who knew him well. -[1469.60 --> 1473.44] For the people he helped unselfishly again and again. -[1473.44 --> 1479.04] For the small blessings he was able to share in his little circle. -[1480.10 --> 1485.04] Never famous, but making a difference where he could. -[1486.94 --> 1490.86] That is what the two-talent servant can do. -[1494.68 --> 1498.30] Each one of you is a gifted person. -[1498.72 --> 1501.94] Or to borrow the words of the parable, each one of you has talents. -[1503.44 --> 1508.26] Now you can look up at those who have more, but please don't. -[1508.30 --> 1512.60] Don't waste your life on jealousy or envy. -[1513.86 --> 1519.88] So ask yourself instead, what has God given to me that I can do? -[1521.04 --> 1528.94] And how can I use it to be a blessing to others and bring glory to him? -[1528.94 --> 1533.26] Join me in prayer. -[1534.54 --> 1536.82] Dear Lord, we thank you for the gifts you give. -[1537.32 --> 1539.76] For the talents you put into our hands. -[1540.22 --> 1541.76] We are so blessed. -[1542.10 --> 1543.66] We have so much. -[1544.64 --> 1549.34] And now, dear Lord, teach us to use our talents as you would have us use them. -[1549.38 --> 1551.80] And we pray this in Jesus' name and for his sake. -[1552.42 --> 1552.72] Amen. -[1552.72 --> 1552.86] Amen. -[1552.86 --> 1552.88] Amen. -[1552.88 --> 1552.90] Amen. -[1552.90 --> 1552.92] Amen. -[1552.92 --> 1552.94] Amen. diff --git a/Weeds in the Wheat Field (Sermon)_summary.txt b/Weeds in the Wheat Field (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c2076f4b028d46679c79a8ecd04f4099acbfd341..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Weeds in the Wheat Field (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,22 +0,0 @@ -• The parable of the weeds in the wheat field from Matthew 13 is read and discussed -• The kingdom of heaven is likened to a farmer's field with good seed and weeds -• Jesus explains that the weeds are people who belong to the devil, and the harvest is the end of time when angels will separate the righteous from the wicked -• Examples of "weeds" in everyday life are given, such as infidelity in marriage or bad habits in a new relationship -• The story emphasizes that even with good beginnings, weeds can still appear and spoil things -• A farmer plants good seed in a field, but weeds grow, symbolizing disappointment and reality vs idealism -• The farmer knows that an enemy intentionally planted the weeds -• The story is used as a parable to describe God's kingdom and desire for perfection -• Jesus' life and teachings are seen as the beginning of this new creation -• However, there are still "weeds" in the field, including among those who follow Jesus, such as the apostles -• These weeds represent selfishness, dishonesty, and other negative qualities that can harm the kingdom -• The story is used to explore what should be done about these weeds, with some arguing for exclusion or purification -• The parable of the weeds and the wheat as a reminder not to judge others and focus on our own growth -• Weeds can be present in our hearts and among those we disagree with, but this doesn't mean they should be removed -• The importance of patience and cultivating what is good, rather than trying to eliminate what is bad -• God's plan of salvation is not spoiled by allowing both wheat and weeds to grow together -• Discipline and restoration are important, but should be done gently and with humility, acknowledging our own flaws -• We must speak out against hate, abuse, greed, and lies, while also seeking to cultivate good in ourselves and others. -• The importance of recognizing and nurturing good, as taught by the parable -• The distinction between the "parable of the weeds in the wheat fields" and a suggested alternative title, "the parable of the wheat in the weeds" -• The relevance of the story to personal lives, with an invitation for listeners to reflect on their own place within it -• A prayer asking God to give people the heart and will to pursue good, true, noble, and beautiful things despite life's messiness \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/Weeds in the Wheat Field (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/Weeds in the Wheat Field (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index c5142b10476ba0e3e1ade1d99bcb244f35a6f2b0..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/Weeds in the Wheat Field (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,254 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 16.80] Okay, we are going to be reading this morning from the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 13. -[16.80 --> 23.20] Chapter 13 in the Gospel of Matthew is a collection of parables, and some of them are really quite -[23.20 --> 24.72] familiar, quite well known. -[24.72 --> 30.84] There's a parable of the sower and the four soils into which the seeds fell, and then -[30.84 --> 35.76] a bit later there's a parable about the weeds in the wheat field, and that will be our reading -[35.76 --> 36.76] today. -[36.76 --> 40.50] Now I'm going to be back here again next week, and we'll be doing another parable from the -[40.50 --> 45.94] Gospel of Matthew, and this one from a later chapter, the parable of the talents. -[45.94 --> 51.04] But this morning let's read the parable of the weeds in the wheat field. -[51.04 --> 53.50] Jesus told them another parable. -[53.50 --> 59.16] He said, The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. -[59.16 --> 64.74] But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat and went -[64.74 --> 66.26] away. -[66.26 --> 71.26] When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared. -[71.26 --> 77.38] The owner's servants came to him and said, Sir, didn't you sow good seed in your field? -[77.38 --> 80.50] Where then did the weeds come from? -[80.50 --> 83.04] An enemy did this, he replied. -[83.04 --> 87.04] The servants asked him, Do you want us to go and pull them up? -[87.04 --> 92.62] No, he answered, because while you are pulling the weeds, you might uproot the wheat with them. -[92.62 --> 95.28] Let both grow together until the harvest. -[95.28 --> 102.28] At that time I will tell the harvesters, First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned, and then gather the -[102.28 --> 106.74] wheat and bring it into my barn. -[106.74 --> 111.28] And then a bit later, also in chapter 13, we have this. -[111.28 --> 116.16] When Jesus left a crowd and went into the house, his disciples came to him and said, Explain -[116.16 --> 120.58] to us the parable of the weeds in the field. -[120.58 --> 125.56] And Jesus answered, The one who sowed the good seed is the Son of God. -[125.56 --> 131.16] The field is the world, and the good seed stands for the people of the kingdom. -[131.16 --> 134.12] The weeds are the people of the evil one. -[134.12 --> 136.96] And the enemy who sows them is the devil. -[136.96 --> 142.34] The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are the angels. -[142.34 --> 147.14] As the weeds are pulled up and burned in the fire, so will it be at the end of the age. -[147.14 --> 151.12] The Son of Man will send out his angels, and they will weed out of his kingdom everything -[151.12 --> 154.90] that causes sin and all who do evil. -[154.90 --> 160.04] They will throw them into the blazing furnace, where they will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. -[160.04 --> 165.42] And then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of the Father. -[165.42 --> 169.42] Whoever has ears, let him hear. -[169.42 --> 176.36] Okay, we have a familiar story here, and I would guess that most of you can kind of identify -[176.36 --> 181.76] with it a little bit, even if you may not be into farming much. -[181.76 --> 185.32] So we have this farmer who sows his field. -[185.32 --> 193.24] He uses very good seed, and when his seeding is done, he sends his farm hands home, and -[193.24 --> 200.64] then he goes home himself and lies down for a night of sweet dreams. -[200.64 --> 208.14] But while he is having those sweet dreams, a shadow moves into that field, and the shadow -[208.14 --> 212.56] moves back and forth and back and forth. -[212.56 --> 218.48] I can imagine a neighbor waking up with a dog barking, and he looks out to see why, and -[218.48 --> 220.62] he can't really see anything. -[220.62 --> 222.32] Maybe something there. -[222.32 --> 223.32] Not to be sure. -[223.32 --> 225.32] Maybe a wild animal. -[225.32 --> 228.36] And in the morning, everything looks fine. -[228.36 --> 230.68] But it's not. -[230.68 --> 236.44] And in a few weeks, the field is full of wheat, like it should be. -[236.44 --> 239.56] But there are also weeds, lots of weeds. -[239.56 --> 243.20] It's a total infestation. -[243.20 --> 247.16] It is so terribly disappointing. -[247.16 --> 249.60] It is infuriating. -[249.60 --> 252.28] It is heartbreaking. -[252.28 --> 254.86] It is so terribly sad. -[254.86 --> 256.78] It is heartbreaking. -[256.78 --> 262.82] Now, I imagine you can connect with that kind of experience, even if you've not been on -[262.82 --> 266.24] a farm or done a garden for a long time. -[266.24 --> 274.64] But I'm sure you have at some point the experience of starting something new and starting with, -[274.64 --> 279.94] you know, high hopes and great goals. -[279.94 --> 287.64] And then the weeds come in and they spoil that great beginning. -[287.64 --> 296.02] A marriage begins in a day filled with flowers and candles and sweet music. -[296.02 --> 301.62] And it could very well be that the glow of that day stays with you for the rest of your -[301.62 --> 304.70] life. -[304.70 --> 307.42] Or maybe it doesn't. -[307.42 --> 314.96] Maybe over time you begin to notice those habits that you didn't notice before or the -[314.96 --> 317.00] ones you ignored before. -[317.00 --> 322.42] And now you find them irritating, very irritating. -[322.42 --> 327.52] Maybe there is a buildup of tension in the house. -[327.52 --> 333.98] Maybe you begin arguing about things, about money and about all his nights out and all -[333.98 --> 341.58] her habits of, you know, talking with her girly friends and telling them way too much. -[341.58 --> 346.96] There are weeds in this field. -[346.96 --> 350.00] You have a new baby born, and he is perfect. -[350.00 --> 353.24] He is totally perfect. -[353.24 --> 360.92] Until the colic and the chicken pox and the fussy eating and the lessons he refuses to -[360.92 --> 366.30] learn and the report cards that tell you he's not even trying and those new friends he's -[366.30 --> 369.00] got that you just don't like. -[369.00 --> 371.16] They're not a good influence on him. -[371.16 --> 375.00] There are weeds in the field. -[375.00 --> 377.10] Think about a new semester at school. -[377.10 --> 379.60] Think about a new job you just started. -[379.60 --> 384.64] Think about a house you finally could afford and you're just moving in. -[384.64 --> 390.54] And you are so hopeful that this will be everything you wanted it to be. -[390.54 --> 395.98] And then weeds come into the field. -[395.98 --> 400.50] This story of the farmer and his field is so ordinary. -[400.50 --> 401.50] So human. -[401.50 --> 404.58] This is the human condition. -[404.58 --> 409.04] This tug of war between the ideal and the real. -[409.04 --> 413.22] Between sweet dreams and messy realities. -[413.22 --> 414.74] We've been there. -[414.74 --> 415.74] We've done that. -[415.74 --> 425.46] Now I should point out though that there is more to this story than just disappointment. -[425.46 --> 431.50] We have to listen to that meeting between the farmer and those farm hands. -[431.50 --> 436.80] The farm hands are confused and they say, sir, didn't you sow good seed in your field? -[436.80 --> 438.40] Where then did the weeds come from? -[438.40 --> 439.40] They don't know. -[439.40 --> 440.40] They don't know. -[440.40 --> 441.40] And the farmer? -[441.40 --> 444.40] He does know. -[444.40 --> 448.40] He says, an enemy did this. -[448.40 --> 453.34] In other words, this was on purpose. -[453.34 --> 456.96] This was a deliberate act of sabotage. -[456.96 --> 463.76] The farmer knew that someone out there did not like him and wanted to cause him harm. -[463.76 --> 464.76] And he did. -[464.76 --> 474.94] Now, of course, this being a parable, the farmer is not just a farmer and the field is not just -[474.94 --> 475.94] a field. -[475.94 --> 483.76] I mean, the farmer stands for God and the field stands for his kingdom. -[483.76 --> 487.70] And God wants a kingdom that is perfect. -[487.70 --> 493.08] He wants a kingdom where we will beat our swords into plowshares and our spears into pruning -[493.08 --> 499.84] hooks, where the wolf will live the lamb and the calf and the lion and the yearling together, -[499.84 --> 502.10] and a little child will lead them. -[502.10 --> 506.86] He wants a kingdom where there is no more death or mourning or crying or tears or pain -[506.86 --> 511.20] anymore because the old order of things has passed away. -[511.20 --> 513.90] That's what he wants. -[513.90 --> 517.28] God has a dream. -[517.28 --> 525.96] Or better yet, he has a plan for a whole new heaven and a whole new earth. -[525.96 --> 533.42] And if you listen closely to the Gospels and to the teachings of, say, the Apostle Paul, -[533.42 --> 538.22] you find out that this kingdom has already started. -[538.22 --> 540.58] That seed has already been planted. -[540.58 --> 547.16] It was planted in the life of the extraordinary person who tells this story. -[547.16 --> 551.72] It started in the life and the work of Jesus. -[551.72 --> 553.42] The way he lived. -[553.42 --> 555.14] The way he loved. -[555.14 --> 557.28] The lessons he taught. -[557.28 --> 559.02] His sacrificial death. -[559.02 --> 561.42] His resurrection on Easter Sunday. -[561.42 --> 566.14] That is the beginning of a whole new creation. -[566.14 --> 570.00] It's on the way. -[570.00 --> 576.44] And yet here too there are weeds in the field. -[576.44 --> 582.34] You know, at the very beginning Jesus chose 12 disciples. -[582.34 --> 583.76] How did that turn out? -[583.76 --> 590.10] Well, one of them betrayed his master for 30 pieces of silver. -[590.10 --> 596.96] The rest of them ran into the night when he was arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane. -[596.96 --> 602.04] And one of them, the big mouth, he lied through his teeth. -[602.04 --> 609.94] Telling people that he did not know Jesus, had never met Jesus to save his children. -[609.94 --> 619.78] These 12 disciples were kind of the symbolic regathering of the 12 tribes of Israel. -[619.78 --> 628.52] They would be the beginning, the core group in a new kingdom. -[628.52 --> 633.84] And yet there were weeds in this field. -[633.84 --> 636.72] And there are still weeds in the field today. -[636.72 --> 638.40] Some of them are growing in me. -[638.40 --> 640.64] Some of them are growing in you. -[640.64 --> 649.38] You know, at our best we can become the hands and the voice of Jesus and bring hope and healing to the world. -[649.38 --> 655.24] But at our worst we embarrass Jesus. -[655.24 --> 671.02] If we could be pure, honest, unselfish, you know, no shallow feeling, no shallow thinking, no shallow commitments, then we could make a world of difference. -[671.02 --> 677.30] The world would see Jesus in us and the world would come to know him and to love him. -[677.30 --> 681.28] And yet that doesn't happen very much. -[681.28 --> 682.58] Not as much as it should. -[682.58 --> 687.08] And it won't until the end when Jesus comes again. -[687.08 --> 694.10] There are weeds in this field. -[694.10 --> 697.86] So what can be done about it? -[697.86 --> 703.26] Well let's go back to that meeting between the farmer and the farm hands. -[703.26 --> 704.56] The farm hands have a plan. -[704.56 --> 709.48] They said, do you want us to go and pull them up, pull all the weeds out? -[709.48 --> 719.94] And if we kind of translate that story into, you know, what they really were after, it's, he's saying, shall we pull out of the kingdom all the bad people? -[719.94 --> 727.42] Shall we get rid of all the doubters and the drifters and those people who hang with the wrong people? -[727.62 --> 729.54] Why don't we just tell them to leave? -[730.28 --> 734.90] Why don't we do some good old fashioned excommunicating? -[734.90 --> 742.40] Let's go into that field and rip and tear until there's nothing left of them and only us. -[743.52 --> 749.42] And then the church will be pure and the kingdom will thrive. -[752.30 --> 756.00] That's the kind of thing the servants were thinking of doing. -[756.00 --> 766.24] And yet the master, he says, no, because while you are pulling the weeds, you may uproot the wheat with them. -[766.24 --> 769.82] Let both grow together until the harvest. -[771.94 --> 775.94] The master knows that there is wheat in this field. -[776.48 --> 783.56] And it is good wheat made from the best seed, the kind that can reproduce 30-fold, 60-fold, 100-fold. -[783.56 --> 787.26] And then it becomes a blessing. -[788.58 --> 792.80] So no, we are not going to tear this field apart. -[793.46 --> 795.52] We're going to let the wheat grow. -[797.00 --> 800.86] And no, unfortunately, at the same time, the weeds will grow too. -[800.96 --> 803.94] But we want this wheat to grow. -[803.94 --> 814.20] And by the way, those weeds that you want to rip out, there's some of them growing in your own heart too. -[815.66 --> 824.82] And the wheat that you, you know, love so much, there's some of that growing in those people you want to run out of this place. -[825.20 --> 826.46] It's a messy field. -[826.46 --> 832.02] And so we're going to leave it alone and let it grow. -[832.02 --> 840.02] You know, many years ago, I fell in love with a preacher from an earlier time. -[840.08 --> 841.18] His name was Helmut Tulecki. -[841.90 --> 843.14] He was a theologian. -[843.22 --> 844.02] He was a pastor. -[844.54 --> 846.68] And he was a master preacher. -[846.90 --> 854.72] And as I was trying to grow into the role of preaching sermons, I read everything I could get from Helmut Tulecki. -[854.72 --> 862.38] And there are longer sermons than we have nowadays, but he just had this wonderful way of giving life to the Scriptures. -[863.36 --> 865.86] And one of the sermons, it was in a book on the parables. -[866.30 --> 869.10] It was on this parable, the parable of the weeds and the wheat. -[869.90 --> 879.00] And in that sermon, Tulecki said that we would spoil God's plan of salvation if we organize an operation, throw them out. -[879.00 --> 898.66] And if we got rid of all those people who don't belong here, those hangers-on, those hypocrites, those wobblers, we would be closing the door to them. -[898.66 --> 907.22] We would be taking away the chance for them to hear the gospel and take it to heart. -[909.60 --> 916.62] We would be building a little elite of the saints, and we would become a sect. -[916.62 --> 926.22] So, no, there's weeds in the field, and there's wheat in the field, and God says, let it grow. -[927.44 --> 935.72] Be patient and cultivate that which is good, because there is goodness in there. -[935.72 --> 952.92] So, all this means that our calling here is in a way not to focus on the trouble, but to focus on what is good and true and beautiful. -[953.74 --> 959.84] Let it grow, and in the end, God will bless it. -[959.84 --> 965.56] Now, at this point, I do want to add a footnote, or maybe a clarification. -[966.20 --> 977.04] We should not take this parable as an instruction to tolerate anything and everything until Jesus comes back again, because then he'll sort it all out. -[979.48 --> 986.06] We could take that to be the lesson of the story, but we should be careful. -[986.06 --> 993.24] The Bible doesn't want us to be Mr. Throw-them-out. -[993.86 --> 1001.70] It doesn't want to be one of those rigid, hostile, angry peoples always finding fault everywhere with everything. -[1003.90 --> 1010.94] But the Bible does say some good things and some important things about the practice of discipline. -[1012.28 --> 1013.54] It should be done. -[1013.54 --> 1016.58] It should be done gently. -[1017.10 --> 1019.78] It should be done with the goal of restoration. -[1021.36 --> 1027.78] It should be done with deep humility, because we have weeds growing in our own hearts. -[1028.26 --> 1031.76] We are, all of us, on the edge of serious trouble. -[1031.76 --> 1039.80] But where there is hate, you must call it out. -[1041.72 --> 1047.00] Where there is abuse, you must do everything you can to stop it. -[1048.28 --> 1055.10] Where there is greed, we have to cultivate a spirit of contentment and generosity. -[1055.10 --> 1059.88] Where there are lies, we must speak the truth in love. -[1059.88 --> 1068.28] So God is not telling us to be apathetic here and to just let the world go by in any way. -[1068.40 --> 1068.90] It does. -[1070.16 --> 1072.80] No, we must be vigilant. -[1073.18 --> 1074.56] We must be careful. -[1074.56 --> 1084.80] But we must pursue whatever is true, whatever is right, whatever is excellent and admirable and worthy of praise. -[1084.80 --> 1092.04] So, it's worth saying again, there are weeds. -[1092.76 --> 1095.34] There is wheat in the weeds. -[1095.34 --> 1102.30] And he calls us to love that wheat and let it grow. -[1102.84 --> 1111.38] You know, we could spend whole days complaining about all the problems in the world and all the problems in the church and all the problems in the kingdom. -[1111.38 --> 1121.96] But Jesus says, seek whatever is good and true and noble and excellent and worthy of praise. -[1125.48 --> 1133.90] There's an old saying, and you may know it, that it is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness. -[1133.90 --> 1143.96] And that's what Jesus is asking us to do, to light a candle or to plant a good seed and let it grow. -[1146.06 --> 1148.78] And there may be something of that you can do yourself. -[1148.92 --> 1150.86] There almost for sure is. -[1152.30 --> 1155.96] Maybe there's a word of encouragement that somebody is waiting for. -[1157.10 --> 1158.80] It could be a word that you bring. -[1158.80 --> 1164.52] Maybe there is an apology that you really should make. -[1164.84 --> 1166.46] And maybe you've been waiting too long. -[1167.22 --> 1169.34] An apology that could bring healing in. -[1170.84 --> 1172.62] Jesus wants you to do that. -[1172.98 --> 1177.32] Maybe there's some forgiveness you need to offer to somebody who's wronged you and hurt you. -[1177.32 --> 1182.30] And he wants you to forgive and you haven't been able to do it. -[1183.80 --> 1187.74] Maybe you need to ask God for that change of heart. -[1188.80 --> 1189.78] So that you can. -[1190.74 --> 1195.02] Maybe there's a lonely soul who's waiting for friendship. -[1196.44 --> 1197.54] Maybe that could be you. -[1199.20 --> 1205.64] Maybe there's a hungry person who needs something to, who's looking for something to eat. -[1205.74 --> 1207.24] There's something you can do. -[1209.80 --> 1214.38] So Jesus invites us to grow the good. -[1214.38 --> 1218.38] That's the point of the parable. -[1221.46 --> 1223.32] So let me say it one more time. -[1225.06 --> 1226.94] There is wheat in this field. -[1227.12 --> 1228.06] It's a messy field. -[1229.12 --> 1230.32] But there's wheat here. -[1232.38 --> 1234.62] And God wants it to grow. -[1234.62 --> 1241.22] You know, in most Bibles, this parable is called the parable of the weeds in the wheat fields. -[1242.36 --> 1245.42] I would maybe suggest a slightly different title. -[1245.60 --> 1250.70] Maybe we could call it the parable of the wheat in the weeds. -[1250.70 --> 1257.04] And then let me ask you, where do you fit in this story? -[1259.78 --> 1261.00] Please join me in prayer. -[1262.58 --> 1267.88] Dear Lord, we are also aware that we live in a messy world. -[1267.88 --> 1280.00] And that so often our fondest hopes and our highest goals somehow get spoiled with weeds, with disappointment. -[1281.48 --> 1286.38] And yet, Lord, you call us to pursue all that is good and true and noble and beautiful. -[1287.18 --> 1291.54] And we ask you that you'll give us the heart and the will to always be doing that. -[1291.62 --> 1294.16] And we pray it in Jesus' name and for his sake. -[1294.74 --> 1295.14] Amen. -[1295.14 --> 1295.28] Amen. diff --git a/What are We Supposed to Do_summary.txt b/What are We Supposed to Do_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index e1178b4e455ce7ebd1511dde92bb0bcc011f28ab..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/What are We Supposed to Do_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,33 +0,0 @@ -• The speaker is discussing the response of Christians to global crises such as COVID-19 and racial tension -• The speaker references Bible passages including 2 Chronicles 7:14 and Matthew 6, which emphasize the importance of humility and prayer in times of crisis -• Jesus' teaching on prayer in Matthew 6 is highlighted, emphasizing the need for sincerity and avoiding public displays of piety -• The speaker notes that despite COVID-19, their own life has not changed significantly due to their work with the Salvation Army and online teaching responsibilities -• A personal anecdote about a homeless person receiving CERB money is shared -• Deaths by overdose in British Columbia surpass COVID-19 deaths -• Government policies contributing to excessive money in hands of those who cannot handle it -• Cultural narcissism and secularism leading to insanity and societal issues -• Nebuchadnezzar as an example of narcissistic behavior leading to insanity -• Call to prayer and the importance of acknowledging God's dominion in times of chaos -• The Lord's Prayer and Jesus' emphasis on where to pray (in private) -• Importance of finding a quiet location for prayer -• Need to learn to focus and concentrate during prayer -• The Lord's Prayer as an example of how to pray effectively -• Distractions from technology and modern life affecting concentration and prayer -• Jesus' teaching on how to pray, including praying without ceasing and bracketing out time for solitude and quiet reflection -• The concept of "our God is in heaven" and its implications for understanding God's sovereignty and authority -• How to start a prayer with reverence and respect for God's holiness and kingdom -• Jesus' teaching on the importance of not just praying problems, but also seeking God's will and kingdom. -• Jesus' teaching on prayer emphasizes the importance of being alone with God -• The hypocrite and pagan approaches to prayer are discussed as examples of how not to pray -• Hypocrites pray to impress others, while pagans pray to impress God through their words and actions -• A key issue is the need for genuine humility and trust in God's approval, rather than seeking human validation -• The Lord's Prayer is a model for Christian prayer -• Confession of sin should not be the primary focus of prayer -• Paganism vs. Christianity: praying based on one's own life vs. praying based on Christ's life -• Foundation of prayer: recognizing one's righteousness in Christ, not personal goodness or confession of sin -• Coming to the Lord's table is not contingent on a sinless life, but rather a recognition of Christ's death and righteousness -• Confessing sin -• Avoiding dwelling on past forgiven sins -• Acknowledging being sinners -• Thanking God for His righteousness through Christ -• Expressing gratitude for His amazing grace \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/What are We Supposed to Do_transcript.txt b/What are We Supposed to Do_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index bade719e7db2e268ffaf4aa27bac5f771b11ea3d..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/What are We Supposed to Do_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,278 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 6.16] Good morning, it's good to see you. My printer is out of ink, so that's why that's there. -[7.18 --> 12.18] And originally, I was told that I have to be stationary this morning, -[12.74 --> 18.18] because there's a camera, and so I thought I wasn't going to be here. Actually, I was going -[18.18 --> 24.20] to decline this whole invitation, because I can't do that. But I was told I actually have four feet -[24.20 --> 31.68] this way. So, can you tell me, when am I out? Still more? Oh, wow, this is normal. Oh, perfect. -[31.82 --> 42.56] Okay, good, I got that. We're going to look at what I believe God is calling the church to during this -[42.56 --> 51.18] global crisis that we find ourselves in. Because I do think that when we look at what's taking place -[51.18 --> 59.10] in our world regarding COVID and the protocol and the different lifestyle that we have all been -[59.10 --> 69.10] required to live. And then, in conjunction with the racial tension that exists within our world today, -[69.56 --> 78.02] of course, primarily with our neighbors to the south, who we must pray for during this time, -[78.02 --> 89.06] and all of the civil unrest and all of the social unrest coming on the heels of this COVID-19 protocol, -[90.04 --> 96.60] Christians around the world are asking, God, I feel that I'm a little loud. Just going to throw -[96.60 --> 104.44] that out there. God, what are you calling the church to do? How should we respond? Perhaps we need -[104.44 --> 113.12] to blog more. Perhaps we need to join Black Lives Matter. Perhaps we need to just, you know, stay home. -[113.54 --> 121.46] Don't do anything. Follow the protocol, isolation, COVID thing, and just do a whole lot of what are we -[121.46 --> 128.16] supposed to do? And I'm convinced that what we're talking about this morning is step one. Without -[128.16 --> 136.80] question, this is step one. 2 Chronicles 7, 14. On the heels of a crisis, when that was being written, -[137.20 --> 146.68] it says, and if my people who are called by my name would humble themselves, turn from their wicked ways, -[147.62 --> 158.02] seek my face, and what? And pray. Then I will hear from heaven, and I will heal their land. -[158.16 --> 166.82] Well, this is our prayer. We have far more insidious problems in our world than COVID-19. I loved how that -[166.82 --> 171.22] was addressed, though that's not exactly how you put it, John, but that's what you were getting at. -[171.98 --> 180.70] And it is our call from God due to the crisis. As C.S. Lewis said, pain is God's megaphone to rouse a -[180.70 --> 188.34] dying world. And so with all that in mind, we're going to look at Matthew chapter 6. Not sure if -[188.34 --> 192.86] you're going to have it up there or not. That's fine if you don't. Matthew chapter 6. The disciples -[192.86 --> 201.56] noticed something about Jesus. They noticed that he spent a lot of time praying. They noticed that he -[201.56 --> 211.88] would go away from them to be by himself. And he did it a lot. And so on one occasion, upon seeing him -[211.88 --> 221.12] pray, they said, Lord, teach us to pray. And so Jesus taught them to pray. And he said this, -[221.12 --> 231.02] when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray, standing in synagogues and on -[231.02 --> 238.04] street corners in order, excuse me, in order to be seen by others. -[240.72 --> 245.00] That's not COVID water, by the way. That was just put there before the service, so don't worry. -[245.00 --> 252.50] Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. Okay, the hypocrite prayer. They like to be seen -[252.50 --> 258.80] by others. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door, and pray to your Father who is -[258.80 --> 264.78] unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. I'm just going to pause -[264.78 --> 269.66] there. Actually, it's the word secret that is used twice. But when you pray, go to your room, close the -[269.66 --> 275.52] door, and pray to your Father who is in secret. Okay, the word is crypto in Greek, in fact, which -[275.52 --> 282.54] is where we get our word cryptic from. Something that's done in a confined and solitary location. -[282.68 --> 287.42] That's kind of what Jesus is getting at, though of course we pray as community as well. Pray to your -[287.42 --> 293.54] Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you. And when you -[293.54 --> 301.80] pray, don't babble like pagans, for they think that they're going to be heard by their God because of -[301.80 --> 308.14] their eloquent words. Don't be like them. Your Father knows what you need before you ask Him. Do you -[308.14 --> 316.08] think you can impress Him with your words? This then is how you should pray. Our Father in heaven, -[316.68 --> 323.42] hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today -[323.42 --> 329.76] our daily bread. Forgive us our debts as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into -[329.76 --> 342.44] temptation, but deliver us from evil. My life actually in this COVID environment, in fact, hasn't -[342.44 --> 348.70] changed one iota. I work for the Salvation Army, as many of you know, and we oversee quite a project -[348.70 --> 353.40] there in Abbotsford with a lot of street entrenched people who we're working with and people -[353.40 --> 358.54] who are living on the cusp of homelessness. And so we work hard to keep them housed, as well as -[358.54 --> 363.54] working with homeless people. And so it's an essential service. I'm still going. I'm teaching -[363.54 --> 370.20] online humanities. It's online, so that's still going. And so life hasn't changed a lot for me in -[370.20 --> 376.78] that regard, except for, of course, we are and have established COVID protocol, which we maintain -[376.78 --> 382.98] at the Salvation Army. And what we're noticing during this particular COVID period is that our -[382.98 --> 388.92] homeless people have a lot more money. Isn't that interesting? Many of the homeless people are -[388.92 --> 396.54] receiving the CERB. So please pray for the liberal government. Because giving a homeless person $2,000 -[396.54 --> 405.06] with the idea that one day you'll audit and you will be able to recoup funds that has been -[405.06 --> 412.90] indiscriminately distributed across our country means the jokes on you. Because you're not getting -[412.90 --> 419.62] that money back. And I saw two weeks ago, I saw a man named, a boy named Jeremy Trellenberg, 30 years -[419.62 --> 426.10] old. I watched him die before my eyes because he's got too much money in his pocket, too many drugs that -[426.10 --> 434.50] he's using. And it finally killed him. There are more deaths by overdose in British Columbia than COVID -[434.50 --> 441.28] since January 1. And to some degree, our government is responsible for that because they're putting too -[441.28 --> 448.10] much money in the hands of people who cannot handle these kinds of funds. They're not ready for it. -[448.94 --> 453.96] This is the world in which we're living right now. And then we turn our attention to what's going on -[453.96 --> 462.94] down south and the civil unrest, the racial tension, white police officers killing black men. -[463.72 --> 470.84] And in response, police officers getting murdered in the United States right now. And we're not sure -[470.84 --> 478.72] what we're supposed to do. We live in a world where insanity seems to rule. But it's not the first -[478.72 --> 483.78] time this has taken place. And here's what I would like to draw your attention to. There's another -[483.78 --> 492.48] place in Scripture where insanity follows a self-absorbed narcissistic personality disorder. -[492.98 --> 498.06] And I believe our culture, generally speaking, is certainly the most narcissistic probably in the -[498.06 --> 504.40] history of the world. Narcissism has to do with those who are absolutely self-absorbed. And we used to -[504.40 --> 510.28] joke about the selfie and the self-focus that our culture lives in. And to some degree, now we are -[510.28 --> 516.36] seeing the consequences of a narcissistic lifestyle in regard to how we're responding to what's taking -[516.36 --> 522.86] place in the world today. Narcissism is a focus on self to the exclusion of others. -[523.72 --> 529.94] Secularism, from the Latin word saeculum, which means present. Secularism, do you realize by definition, -[530.40 --> 537.30] means simply now-ism. It means simply to live in the present without consideration of the past -[537.30 --> 545.06] and without consideration of the future. And this is what's taking place. We have this -[545.06 --> 553.18] combination of narcissism and secularism in this cultural moment. And it's happened before. -[553.48 --> 559.28] There was a man named Nebuchadnezzar. Nebuchadnezzar was like Donald Trump on steroids. Donald Trump, -[559.50 --> 565.66] all he's got, other than a very big mouth, is... And man, I'm not even getting into American politics. -[565.66 --> 569.72] I don't even mean to say that because, boy, I don't even know where you... I don't even want to comment. -[569.88 --> 574.76] But what a mess, right? I mean, what a mess. I don't... I have opinions on everything. -[575.12 --> 576.42] But I don't even know what to say about that. -[578.48 --> 583.54] But there's a... Nebuchadnezzar was Donald Trump on steroids. All Donald Trump has is his Trump -[583.54 --> 589.76] towers and a big mouth. Nebuchadnezzar also had a big mouth. He walked around having people worship -[589.76 --> 595.92] him and he walked around his palace and his gardens and he had the hanging gardens of Babylon. -[596.38 --> 603.12] That's Nebuchadnezzar's thing. One of the seven wonders of the ancient world. And on one occasion, -[603.56 --> 610.52] he was walking around his palace and saying, look at the splendor of my glory. And look at all that I -[610.52 --> 617.04] have accomplished for myself. I am the most powerful human being on the face of the earth -[617.04 --> 622.08] with the largest military and the largest city and the most technologically advanced -[622.08 --> 630.18] palace on the face of the planet. Look how great I am. And as those words were on his lips, -[630.38 --> 640.30] do you know what happened to him? Insanity. Narcissism leads to insanity, my friends. And do we not see -[640.30 --> 647.40] that in our culture today? And it didn't end until finally he raised his eyes to heaven. -[648.06 --> 654.38] Here's the call of the church, a call of God to the church, that we would raise our eyes to the -[654.38 --> 660.94] heavens on behalf of our culture, which is losing its sanity. And he says, at the end of the days, -[660.94 --> 667.50] I, Nebuchadnezzar, lifted my eyes to heaven and then my sanity was returned to me. I blessed the most -[667.50 --> 672.96] high God and praised and honored him who lives forever. For his dominion is an everlasting dominion, -[673.02 --> 678.10] regardless of what it looks like on the streets of Seattle. And his kingdom endures from generation -[678.10 --> 683.38] to generation, regardless of the fact that the kingdoms of our world are crumbling before our -[683.38 --> 688.90] eyes. All the inhabitants of the earth are regarded as nothing and compared to his glory. -[688.90 --> 697.22] And he does as he will according to his, according to the host of heaven. None can stay his hand or say -[697.22 --> 705.62] to him, what have you done? And when I said that, King Nebuchadnezzar says, my sanity was restored to me. -[706.54 --> 710.46] This is a call to prayer. Now I'm not going to go through the entire Lord's Prayer. We're actually -[710.46 --> 715.60] just going to look at the introduction today. Three points really simply. This is all that Jesus is -[715.60 --> 721.86] getting at as he introduces. When he's teaching us to pray, the first thing he says is, this is where -[721.86 --> 728.32] you pray. It's literally that important to Jesus that when he teaches us to pray, he teaches us where -[728.32 --> 735.02] to go and spends a significant amount of time on teaching us where to go to pray. And then he teaches -[735.02 --> 743.96] us how not to pray before he teaches us how to pray. And from this is inferred the foundation of our -[743.96 --> 749.28] prayer. Okay, so the first thing that Jesus does, he says, when you pray, okay, don't pray like the -[749.28 --> 754.34] hypocrite, don't pray like the pagan. We'll get there in a minute. He says, go to your room. And notice he -[754.34 --> 761.16] says, close the door behind you. What's Jesus getting at? Right at the outset, he's getting at the most -[761.16 --> 768.60] practical dimension of our need to pray. And probably the primary reason why many of us don't pray is we -[768.60 --> 773.76] ought. And by the way, this is all of us. Every time I speak on prayer, I feel like a hypocrite, which I'm about to -[773.76 --> 780.32] talk about in a minute. I'll explain to you what that means. But why don't we pray well? Here's what -[780.32 --> 784.98] Jesus is saying, is because you don't get a silent location. And he's not simply talking about a -[784.98 --> 789.36] location for the sake of a location. I mean, when my kids were young, I spent, and I had to pray, I just -[789.36 --> 793.80] spent more time in the bathroom. And I know some of you have that same situation, because when you have -[793.80 --> 798.96] young kids and it's hard to find silence, but here's the point that Jesus is making, is that we need -[798.96 --> 807.60] to learn to focus. We need to learn to concentrate. We need to learn to look to the heavens and pray to -[807.60 --> 814.98] our Father who is in heaven. And in order to do so, he says, we go to our room and we close the door. -[815.30 --> 822.36] And so do you have that location in your life? And have you bracketed out the time in your life? -[822.36 --> 831.48] Because this is the most important thing in your life. Do you have time to pray? And I know we talk -[831.48 --> 835.36] about praying on the way to work, and I pray on the way to work. And we talk about praying on the -[835.36 --> 840.34] way home from work, and I pray on the way home from work. Paul says that we must pray without ceasing, -[840.54 --> 845.94] and to be sure, we must pray without ceasing. This isn't the only thing the Bible says about prayer, -[846.02 --> 851.30] but this is God come in the flesh talking to us about prayer. And he says that although all of that -[851.30 --> 859.02] is absolutely important, there is something about you bracketing out that time in your day and on a -[859.02 --> 867.86] daily basis to be alone, quiet before the Lord without your phone and all of its notifications -[867.86 --> 877.76] and all of its distractions. Nicholas Carr has a great book called The Shallows. Has anyone heard of it? -[877.76 --> 885.78] It's The Shallows, subtitled What the Internet is Doing to Our Brain. Nicholas Carr won a Pulitzer Prize for -[885.78 --> 889.98] this book. I highly recommend it, in fact. And he's got a bunch of friends who have PhDs and they're -[889.98 --> 896.18] doctors, and he's in conversation with them. And Nicholas Carr is noticing that many of them are -[896.18 --> 903.14] saying, you know, I just don't read anymore. I don't read lengthy treaties anymore. I don't even like -[903.14 --> 909.14] reading long blog posts. I like the short blog posts. Tweets are best, actually, because you can really get -[909.14 --> 914.62] that little piece of information really fast. And people, and why not? And they're saying, because I can't hold -[914.62 --> 923.98] my concentration long enough. And so all of this is an attack, ultimately, on prayer. Because if you can't -[923.98 --> 932.42] concentrate for longer than five minutes, you cannot pray. And this is what Jesus is saying. -[933.38 --> 938.38] Right? And I got ADD. I mean, I feel sorry for people who don't have ADD. ADD's fun. You've got to -[938.38 --> 943.34] channel your ADD. By the way, it stands for Attention Deficit. Man, I really don't like the shirt that I'm -[943.34 --> 952.90] wearing today. It's flopping around. And not everyone gets that. And so I do, you know, -[953.00 --> 960.30] our Father who art in heaven, did I forget to turn off the stove? Hallowed be thy name. Your kingdom come, -[960.64 --> 965.00] man, are my children suffering right? And you're going to notice when you go in this prayer, here's -[965.00 --> 970.74] the concentration. Notice this prayer. We go to prayer with a shopping list of requests. -[970.74 --> 979.60] Christ's prayer, our Father in heaven. He is your dad. By his spirit, you can't cry, Abba, Father. -[979.74 --> 985.60] In heaven, to the Jew, meant he was in control. Psalm 115, 3, our God is in heaven. He does whatever -[985.60 --> 991.22] he pleases. Psalm 135, 6, our God is in heaven. He does whatever he pleases. Daniel 4, our God is in -[991.22 --> 995.28] heaven. The peoples of the earth are regarded as nothing, and he does as he pleases, and no one can -[995.28 --> 1002.64] hold back his hand. To say our God is in heaven is to assert that no one can hold back his hand, -[1002.68 --> 1007.58] and he's in charge regardless of what things look like. This is how you start your prayer. -[1008.32 --> 1015.58] And then you're saying, hallowed be thy name. That means may God's holiness be manifested in my life. -[1015.58 --> 1022.30] God is hallowed, holy. May he be regarded as holy in my life, in my family, in my marriage, -[1022.86 --> 1027.28] in my church, where I work, and ultimately in this world. -[1029.18 --> 1033.22] What is Jesus doing? When we pray, we go to prayer with all of our problems. -[1034.18 --> 1038.58] We pray our problems so much, we're more depressed by the end of our prayer than we were at the beginning -[1038.58 --> 1044.60] of the prayer. Because all we do in prayer is pray our problems. And Jesus is saying, that's not how you pray. -[1044.60 --> 1048.80] And of course there's the emergency prayer, and I understand. There's something that's an emergency, -[1049.24 --> 1052.72] and the first thing you do is you go to God and you bring it to him. And I understand that, -[1052.78 --> 1056.34] and we need to do that. And there's places in the Bible where that happens. But Jesus is teaching, -[1056.46 --> 1061.72] this is generally speaking, how you pray. When you pray, pray this way. By the way, I'm not even -[1061.72 --> 1067.10] gone through the Lord's prayer yet. Hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. All my life I walk around -[1067.10 --> 1071.56] thinking about my kingdom, my empire, my achievements, the things I'm accomplishing. And he's saying, -[1071.56 --> 1076.44] no, no, no, no, I'm pushing against that. I'm into my kingdom, not your kingdom. And while the kingdoms -[1076.44 --> 1081.88] of the world are collapsing, you need to pray for my kingdom to come. And I go to prayer with my will. -[1081.96 --> 1088.34] Lord, this is what I want. This is what I think I need. These are my problems. Please solve them. -[1088.34 --> 1097.72] And he says, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. And my mind is just going, hang on a minute. -[1097.96 --> 1104.04] And if you start praying this way, it will transform your life. And you know how? Because you're taking -[1104.04 --> 1108.06] your eyes off of yourself in prayer. Because that's what prayer is supposed to be, by the way. By -[1108.06 --> 1114.64] definition, this selfie culture needs nothing more than to take their eyes off of themselves. Stop -[1114.64 --> 1120.26] video recording every silly, stupid thing that happens. Stop taking pictures of your dumb breakfast -[1120.26 --> 1131.38] and start focusing on someone else. And this is what Jesus is saying. Go to a room. Be by yourself. -[1131.78 --> 1141.84] And don't bring your phone and all of its irritating notifications. And pray. When you pray, -[1141.84 --> 1152.22] the first thing Jesus says is where to go when you pray. John Piper said one of the great uses of Twitter -[1152.22 --> 1160.58] and Facebook will be to prove at the last day that prayerlessness was not from a lack of time. -[1161.64 --> 1168.28] In order to pray, we need to find a silent location. Prayer begins, Jesus says, not with our Father who is in -[1168.28 --> 1178.72] heaven, but our Father who is in secret. Second, he says, when you pray, don't pray like the hypocrite, -[1179.50 --> 1185.42] for they love to pray standing to be seen by others. And don't pray like the pagan. Okay, again, -[1185.48 --> 1191.08] we're not even at how to pray yet. Jesus is still busy telling us how not to pray. And this is -[1191.08 --> 1198.66] absolutely crucial because this is going to lead to our last point this morning. But how not to pray? -[1199.74 --> 1204.18] Don't pray like a hypocrite and don't pray like a pagan. Well, what is it about the hypocrite prayer -[1204.18 --> 1208.32] and what is it about the pagan prayer? First of all, the assumption here is that hypocrites pray -[1208.32 --> 1214.18] and that pagans pray. And the assumption here in that Jesus is talking to his disciples -[1214.18 --> 1221.64] is that disciples of Jesus can pray like hypocrites. And disciples of Jesus can pray like pagans. -[1222.08 --> 1227.98] I can honestly tell you that the first 10 or 15 years of my Christian life, I was praying like a -[1227.98 --> 1234.28] pagan. And I'll explain that to you in a moment. First of all, he says, when you pray, don't pray like -[1234.28 --> 1240.50] a hypocrite. The word hypocrite has a fascinating etymology development evolution of this word. -[1240.50 --> 1251.18] It used to refer to a stage actor in pre-Christ Greek theater. And so a stage actor was a hypocrite. -[1251.72 --> 1256.88] And it simply means someone who wears a mask. Okay, so that's what a hypocrite was. And of course, -[1257.04 --> 1264.26] in theater 2,500 years ago, the actors would simply wear masks. A mask that would have a very large smile -[1264.26 --> 1271.48] to show the facial expression of the actor and the theme and mood of the moment. Or a mask that was very large -[1271.48 --> 1277.30] that had a very large frown to show the opposite facial expression and emotion and so forth. So that the people -[1277.30 --> 1283.28] in the theater, and the theaters were quite large, could know exactly what the actor was feeling, their emotion. -[1283.82 --> 1290.36] A hypocrite is someone who wears a mask. And of course, we can see the development of the word hypocrite in that -[1290.36 --> 1295.56] now. Of course, it means, and then, by the way, this is what Jesus meant. It meant someone who's pretentious, -[1295.70 --> 1302.96] someone who pretends to be something that they're not. And when we do that, we do it in order to try to win -[1302.96 --> 1309.58] their approval. A hypocrite is an approval suck. A hypocrite is someone who needs the approval of other -[1309.58 --> 1316.68] people in order to validate themselves. And ultimately, because they don't have a deep and abiding sense -[1316.68 --> 1323.26] of the approval that they have with the God of the universe. And that's what Jesus is getting at here -[1323.26 --> 1328.52] when he says, when you pray, don't pray like this. Here's what he's saying. He's saying, when you pray, -[1328.82 --> 1335.22] pray with the approval that you have. And he'll get to that in a minute. And he says, then, don't pray -[1335.22 --> 1340.14] like a pagan. Well, how does a pagan pray? If a hypocrite prays to impress other people, a pagan's praying -[1340.14 --> 1349.18] to impress God. So a pagan thinks that the God he or she is praying to, and in this case, where Jesus is -[1349.18 --> 1354.60] talking to his disciples, we're praying to the real God, we think, when we're praying like a pagan, that the real -[1354.60 --> 1363.30] God we're praying to is hearing us because we're impressive with our words. Surely he's hearing me because -[1363.30 --> 1370.24] I've been impressive with my life. I don't know if you've read Homer's Iliad or any Greek mythology, -[1370.62 --> 1376.58] but pagans prayed all the time. And Homer's Iliad and Odyssey is full of pagan prayers. There's one -[1376.58 --> 1382.06] occasion where there's a woman named Thetis who's Achilles' mother, and she's aware of the fact that -[1382.06 --> 1389.70] Achilles is in danger. And so she goes to pray to the sky god Apollo who dwells on Mount Olympus. -[1389.70 --> 1399.88] And she says to him, O Father Jove, if I have ever done anything good for you in word or deed, -[1400.54 --> 1408.92] hear my prayer. Right? That's a classic pagan prayer. You say, well, I don't pray like that. -[1409.60 --> 1414.78] Okay, here's how I used to pray like a pagan. I used to go to God in prayer, and the very first thing I -[1414.78 --> 1419.86] did, when I was a new Christian, I was a new Christian. And so, I mean, I was quite a nasty -[1419.86 --> 1426.08] non-Christian, and so I kind of had a lot of things to work out, like bad language and drinking. -[1427.36 --> 1430.84] Anyway, I won't get into all that, but I'll tell you, I was glad there wasn't video recorders -[1430.84 --> 1436.72] running around all the time when I was 18 years old, I can tell you that. Anyway, it was a joke. You can -[1436.72 --> 1442.10] laugh. I wasn't that bad. I mean, I shouldn't be in jail or anything. I've not killed anybody -[1442.10 --> 1451.90] as far as I know. And so, when I prayed, I would always have to begin with the confession of my sin. -[1453.72 --> 1460.46] Jesus died for me. Christ died. Rose again. Conquered sin, death, and hell. Colossians 2 says that my sin -[1460.46 --> 1467.02] was nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more. Yet, I would have to begin with my sin because I didn't -[1467.02 --> 1475.66] believe that God could hear my prayer unless I confessed sin first. Or there were times where I -[1475.66 --> 1480.74] just would live in guilt, and if I was kind of having a bad sin week, I didn't think I could really -[1480.74 --> 1485.92] go to God in prayer. I had to first kind of have a couple of days where I'm not struggling so much -[1485.92 --> 1491.82] with that particular sin. Now, I want to go to the Lord's Prayer. There's six petitions in the Lord's -[1491.82 --> 1497.22] Prayer. Our Father who art in heaven, that's an address. Hallowed be your name. That's a request. -[1497.32 --> 1502.36] That's a prayer request. That's a petition. Your kingdom come. That's a prayer request. -[1503.22 --> 1509.12] Your will be done. That's a prayer request. Give us this day our daily bread. Okay, that's a prayer -[1509.12 --> 1514.90] request. Guess where the location of the confession is on the list of prayer requests in the Lord's -[1514.90 --> 1523.00] Prayer when Jesus teaches you to pray. It's absolutely remarkable. When I pray, I have to deal -[1523.00 --> 1528.90] with my sin first because I think God won't hear me unless I deal with my sin first. When Jesus teaches -[1528.90 --> 1537.18] me to pray, he locates the confession of sin on the fifth out of six petitions showing that the basis of -[1537.18 --> 1546.94] our prayer is not how good we've lived or how well we've confessed or how pure we feel before the Father. -[1548.94 --> 1555.98] Right? And if you're not praying this way, Jesus is saying this, you're praying like a pagan. -[1557.10 --> 1562.54] You really think he's hearing you better when you're feeling better about yourself? -[1562.54 --> 1570.00] Do you really think that God is in heaven looking at your life and seeing that you sinned maybe a -[1570.00 --> 1575.84] little bit less this week than last week and so your prayers will be more effective based on the -[1575.84 --> 1583.64] fact that you've sinned a little this week, a little less this week than last week? That is paganism. -[1584.60 --> 1591.74] This is the point that Jesus is making. Don't pray like a pagan who thinks they're heard on the basis of -[1591.74 --> 1598.14] their life. Pray like a Christian who knows they're heard on the basis of Christ's life. -[1599.10 --> 1604.70] And so that then leads us to the last point, the foundation of our prayer. -[1606.36 --> 1610.60] Don't pray to win the approval of others, which shows you don't live in the approval of God. Don't -[1610.60 --> 1615.20] pray like a pagan in order to win God's approval, which shows that you think he hears you because -[1615.20 --> 1627.50] you've been good. Rather, he says, pray our father. He is your father in Christ. And by his spirit, -[1627.66 --> 1635.98] we call cry Abba. And therefore, we're no longer slaves, but we're children of God. And we pray as -[1635.98 --> 1643.64] children of God. There's someone who's, I don't know who said this, but who can actually wake -[1643.64 --> 1650.56] the most powerful monarch up in the middle of the night simply to ask for a drink of water. -[1651.84 --> 1658.78] But his child. Anyone else loses their head. But we are children of God. -[1662.00 --> 1667.02] Dietrich Bonhoeffer has a wonderful book, the prayer book of the Bible, and he says this, -[1667.02 --> 1674.74] the prayer book of the Bible, the Psalms. Read the Psalms, and you'll find how theologically astute -[1674.74 --> 1681.90] they are in regard to this teaching. There are fewer prayers for the forgiveness of sins -[1681.90 --> 1689.06] in the Psalms than we might expect, he says. Most Psalms, in fact, presuppose complete certainty of the -[1689.06 --> 1694.34] forgiveness of sins. Christian prayer, he says, is diminished and endangered when it revolves -[1694.34 --> 1700.10] exclusively around the forgiveness of sins. There is such a thing as confidently leaving your sin -[1700.10 --> 1705.62] behind for the sake of Christ. Indeed, it may be troubling, he says, that in the Psalms, -[1705.96 --> 1714.00] the righteousness of the author is spoken of as often as his guilt. Have you ever noticed that? -[1714.58 --> 1721.36] Here's a small sampling. Psalm 5, you bless the righteous. 17, I in righteousness will see his face. -[1721.36 --> 1727.90] 34, his eyes are on the righteous. 37, I've never seen the righteous forsaken. Psalm 64, let the righteous -[1727.90 --> 1736.82] rejoice. 68, let the righteous be glad. How often do you appeal to your righteousness in prayer? -[1739.98 --> 1744.66] Not a righteousness that you've earned, but a righteousness that has been given to you by God -[1744.66 --> 1752.20] through Christ based on his life. How often do you appeal to your righteousness in prayer? -[1752.20 --> 1757.44] And have we ever considered the possibility that perhaps our weakness in prayer is owing to the fact -[1757.44 --> 1764.00] that we give much more time to our guilt in prayer than we do to our righteousness? The prayer does not -[1764.00 --> 1773.16] begin with the confession of sin. The prayer begins, our Father, you have made me righteous and I am your Son. -[1773.16 --> 1789.34] This is the foundation to our prayer. This is also the foundation to the Lord's table. -[1789.34 --> 1800.80] Because we do the same thing at the table. We think in order to come to the table, we have to make sure -[1800.80 --> 1808.12] we've lived a pretty sinless life. We don't want to come to the table if there's sin in our lives. We -[1808.12 --> 1812.98] need to deal with all that. And of course, Paul did talk about the table and unity in the church, -[1813.08 --> 1817.68] and there was fighting, and there was some people who were eating all the food and not leaving any for -[1817.68 --> 1822.62] anyone else. And he's talking about how those things needed to be resolved within the church for the -[1822.62 --> 1829.68] sake of unity in the church. But sin is not a reason to not come to the table. My friends, sin is the -[1829.68 --> 1840.36] reason you do come to the table. And so if you're struggling with sin this morning, and by the looks of -[1840.36 --> 1851.88] you, you all are, if you struggle with sin in your life, we're going to come to the table. We're going to -[1851.88 --> 1858.72] confess our sin, to be sure. But we're going to come to the table, and we are going to partake. -[1859.28 --> 1866.28] And we are going to consider all that Christ has done on our behalf. For this is a reminder of his -[1866.28 --> 1873.72] death, which was for our sin, his life, which earned our righteousness. And we're going to think about -[1873.72 --> 1879.50] the great grace of God, which he has conferred to us through Christ. And so we're going to sing -[1879.50 --> 1887.36] amazing grace, I believe, right now. And then we will partake of the bread and the wine. -[1887.36 --> 1899.58] As the team comes forward. Gracious Father, we thank you for all that you've done for us in Christ. We -[1899.58 --> 1904.92] thank you that we can come to you in prayer, and we can call you Father. Yes, we confess sin. -[1906.42 --> 1913.10] But we don't want to be remembering sin and reminding you of all this sin that you have forgiven us of, -[1913.10 --> 1919.84] and focusing on it to the neglect of the righteousness of Christ. Father, we are sinners, -[1919.84 --> 1926.38] and we come with our sin to you this morning. But we thank you for the righteousness that is ours in -[1926.38 --> 1930.14] Christ. Your grace is amazing. Amen. diff --git a/When Temptation Comes My Way (Sermon)_summary.txt b/When Temptation Comes My Way (Sermon)_summary.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2740d4a3f0d0bc5d09bc962f4a6dc5e5568825a5..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/When Temptation Comes My Way (Sermon)_summary.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,32 +0,0 @@ -• The series is continuing on James and reading from James 1:12-18 -• Temptation happens when we are dragged away by our own evil desires -• God does not tempt us to sin, but may bring about trials or tests of faith -• An important distinction between outer tests (God testing or proving) and inner temptation (our heart rebelling against God's design) -• Temptation itself is not sinful, but giving in to it leads to sin and death -• Faith is indicated by resisting temptation, not the infrequency of being tempted -• The goal is to get better at resisting temptation and not being deceived by things that pull our hearts. -• The speaker discusses how people often think about sin and temptation in terms of categories of what they can't do. -• Examples are given of individuals setting limits for themselves, such as eating only half a bag of chips or not taking money from their mother's wallet. -• This approach focuses on behavior rather than the right thing to do. -• The speaker argues that when we focus on what we can't do, we are making sin or behavior the goal of our actions. -• A paradigm shift is proposed: instead of focusing on what we can't do as sin, we should reframe it in terms of obedience. -• However, this is not the correct reframing; rather, we should consider something else entirely. -• The speaker argues that real faith is not ultimately about morality or behavior, but about a relationship with God. -• This is demonstrated by Jesus' teachings and behavior, who was critical of those who were hypocritically following religious rules. -• God is not interested in making people religious, spiritual, self-care obsessed, or serene; rather, He wants us to be passionate for Him and His glory. -• The concept of holiness is often misunderstood as moral behavior, but it's about being set apart by God -• God's holiness means he is wholly other, transcendent, and incomprehensible -• True faith thinks about what it means to be holy, not just what we can do -• Holiness involves new affections, desires, and motives that lead to new behavior -• We are already holy through Jesus' sacrifice and are being made holy in the process -• Reframing the conversation around sin and temptation through the gospel -• The power of God's word in salvation and sanctification -• Immerging oneself in Scripture for effective use of its power against temptation -• Community as a crucial factor in fighting temptation and applying the word -• The symbolism of Ash Wednesday and the imposition of ashes, illustrating how sin stains us unconsciously and grace cleanses us -• The importance of community and being with others when facing sin and temptation -• The tendency to "manicure" sins and present them in a socially acceptable way -• The reality of sin leading to death but the gift of God being eternal life -• The need for faith to be made real, which will involve facing challenges and trials -• Reframing discussions of sin and temptation through the lens of being holy -• The power and strength given by God's word to defeat sin and temptation \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/When Temptation Comes My Way (Sermon)_transcript.txt b/When Temptation Comes My Way (Sermon)_transcript.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 138dfbbf7d3c73de0458d7af63162e858f1b7835..0000000000000000000000000000000000000000 --- a/When Temptation Comes My Way (Sermon)_transcript.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,254 +0,0 @@ -[0.00 --> 9.26] This morning, we're going to continue in our series on James, and we're going to read together -[9.26 --> 15.94] from James 1. We're going to read verses 12 through 18. It will be on the screen as I go -[15.94 --> 20.58] through it, but I do encourage you, if you have your own Bible or if you can open that up on your -[20.58 --> 25.26] phone, whatever the case may be, just to have that with you as we go through the message today. -[25.26 --> 30.26] From James 1, beginning at verse 12. -[55.26 --> 62.58] Each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire -[62.58 --> 68.66] has conceived, it gives birth to sin, and sin, when it is full grown, gives birth to death. -[69.82 --> 78.18] Do not be deceived, my dear brothers. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from -[78.18 --> 86.34] the Father of heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth -[86.34 --> 94.02] through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of all he created. -[94.82 --> 96.14] This is the word of the Lord. -[96.14 --> 106.22] There's a lot that I hope we can see together this morning, and so we're going to just jump right in -[106.22 --> 115.20] to that. Now, in our passage this morning from James, there's a little shift that is taking place -[115.20 --> 123.00] here, right? We're still under the larger umbrella of being hearers and doers, and this is still about -[123.00 --> 129.96] how you make your faith real, but the shift that is taking place is from those things that happen -[129.96 --> 140.24] to you to those things that happen in you. Now, remember, James has started his letter assuming or -[140.24 --> 146.94] recalling the struggles that the early Christians faced, right? That the cultural effort to compromise -[146.94 --> 154.26] in their life was strong. The external pressures to return to the old way of being was powerful, -[155.26 --> 164.18] and these sorts of trials will be faced by anyone who wants to be a follower of Jesus. In fact, in James, -[164.42 --> 171.74] it's presumed, right? To be a follower is to face fire, to stand in the furnace of oppression and -[171.74 --> 177.34] ostracism for your faith. Facing these things, in fact, as we have seen and will continue to see, -[177.64 --> 186.48] is a sign that your faith is real, and those external pressures exert a sort of force on you, -[187.48 --> 196.86] right? The trial happens, and inside there is a temptation. That's James' point, right? He says in -[196.86 --> 202.22] verse 12, blessed is the one who perseveres under trial, and then immediately in verse 13, he says, -[202.46 --> 210.92] when tempted. Now, notice that, right? James says, when tempted. James' presumption is that you will be -[210.92 --> 216.84] tempted, and he can presume that we will be tempted because he knows that real faith hearers and doers -[216.84 --> 228.16] of the word will face trials, and trials come with an opportunity for temptation. Every trial brings -[228.16 --> 237.30] temptation, right? Struggling with money, with not having enough money, is an opportunity for temptation -[237.30 --> 247.14] temptation to question the providence of God in our life, right? The death of a loved one can tempt us to -[247.14 --> 256.40] question God's love, right? Suffering in the world can tempt us to question God's goodness. Evil actions -[256.40 --> 266.52] seemingly being rewarded tempt us to question God's justice. Testing brings temptation, and the deeper the trial, -[266.52 --> 274.28] the more dangerous the temptation. As we get into this, I want to give sort of two things as kind of -[274.28 --> 279.32] preliminary remarks that will sort of be a foundation out of which we can spring, and so first, -[280.78 --> 290.44] temptation comes, but it is not God tempting you, right? God doesn't tempt you to sin, right? James writes, -[290.44 --> 296.24] when tempted, no one should say, God is tempting me, for God cannot be tempted, nor does he -[296.24 --> 304.62] tempt anyone, right? God might bring about a test of faith. He might allow a circumstance to happen. He -[304.62 --> 310.60] might ordain a situation that is really hard for you to face alone, right? We see this all throughout -[310.60 --> 317.32] the Bible, right? God testing Abraham in Genesis 22 is an example of this. The story of Job is an example -[317.32 --> 327.48] of this, the story of Joseph, or of Jonah, or the book of Judges, right? And while God may test or prove his -[327.48 --> 338.30] servants in order to show and strengthen their faith, God never, never seeks to make you sin or seeks to destroy -[338.30 --> 347.04] your faith that is contrary to his nature and character and being in the world. The important -[347.04 --> 358.76] distinction to see is the difference between an outer test and an inner temptation, right? An outer test -[358.76 --> 366.78] is God wanting to hone your heart to stronger faith. Inner temptation is your heart hunting out in -[366.78 --> 375.00] rebellion against God's design. That brings us to the second sort of preliminary remark. James writes, -[375.42 --> 382.16] each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire -[382.16 --> 390.92] has conceived, it gives birth to sin, and sin, when it is full grown, gives birth to death. Temptation -[390.92 --> 400.88] happens in the heart with desire. Sin happens when you follow up or do something with it. And get that, -[400.94 --> 409.74] right? Temptation itself is not necessarily sinful, and that's important to hear, because sometimes I hear -[409.74 --> 417.40] Christians talk about being bad Christians or being unsure if they really are Christian just because they -[417.40 --> 424.92] continue to be tempted with something. And sure, over the course of your Christian life and maturation, -[424.92 --> 431.62] as we are more and more transformed into the image of Jesus, we want to see, we should see, and we will see -[431.62 --> 439.50] temptation lessen and the opportunity for temptation to lessen or its power over us to be minimized. But the fact -[439.50 --> 447.62] of temptation is simply a part of the real faith experience, right? Even Jesus was tempted. -[450.02 --> 461.64] And so listen carefully here. Faith, as hearers and doers of the word, is not indicated by the infrequency -[461.64 --> 473.44] of temptation, but by the infrequency of giving in to temptation. Faith, as hearers and doers of the word, is not -[473.44 --> 484.74] indicated by the infrequency of temptation, but by the infrequency of giving in to temptation. And so, with James, -[484.74 --> 492.88] our goal here is to get better at not giving in to temptation, right, at not being deceived by the -[492.88 --> 499.90] things that pull our hearts in all sorts of different directions. And that's where we're going to spend the -[499.90 --> 509.02] rest of our time this morning, with tools for making faith real so that we can face temptation. -[509.02 --> 518.14] Now, the first tool I want to share with you is what I'm calling the reframing of categories. -[519.56 --> 526.98] Because here it is, right? When we think of sin and temptation, we generally start thinking in -[526.98 --> 536.66] categories of what we can't do, right? We think in terms of limits to freedom or activity. We think -[536.66 --> 545.54] how far is too far, or how much is too much, or when does this become wrong, right? We think more about -[545.54 --> 553.44] boundaries and defining them clearly so that we know exactly how far we can go up to the line -[553.44 --> 563.32] without crossing over it. I'll give you an example. A whole bag of chips is gluttony, -[563.32 --> 574.40] so I'm only going to eat half. Taking the coins out of mom's wallet isn't the same as taking the bills -[574.40 --> 583.08] out of mom's wallet, so I'm only going to take the coins. Four drinks gets me drunk, so I'll stop at -[583.08 --> 588.72] three. Or I'll have three, and then I will eat, and then see how I feel about having that fourth. -[588.72 --> 596.66] My girlfriend and I have been together for years. We should be allowed to do this. We love each other. -[598.72 --> 604.06] It's not gossip if I don't use their names. I can't help it if people figure it out on their own. -[606.34 --> 611.70] Right, we have all sorts of examples where we try to figure out exactly where that line is, and then we -[611.70 --> 618.56] just take a step back from it. And in these examples, and really in all the examples that we could give -[618.56 --> 626.10] and think of, if we think of sin and temptation in terms of what we can't do, the focus actually isn't -[626.10 --> 634.20] on the right thing. The focus is on the wrong thing, right? It's on behavior. In some cases, the priority -[634.20 --> 639.54] is actually finding ways to get away with just a little bit of something, if not the whole thing. -[639.54 --> 646.96] When we think of sin and temptation as something we can't do or we shouldn't do, we are actually -[646.96 --> 654.56] making the sin or the behavior or the activity or the focus the goal of our actions. But what if, -[655.44 --> 659.92] and this is where I'm talking about that reframing, this is the paradigm shift that I would like us to -[659.92 --> 666.08] lean into this morning. What if, and let's be honest, for some of us this paradigm shift is going to -[666.08 --> 670.00] seem obvious as soon as I say it, and we're going to wonder, why didn't we think about this already? -[670.42 --> 678.38] But what if, instead of focusing on what we can't do as sin, and I know that in your minds, -[678.52 --> 683.58] some of you have already jumped to the idea that I'm going to say, what if we don't focus on what we -[683.58 --> 688.76] can't do, but we focus on what we can do as obedience? And if that's where your mind went, -[688.76 --> 698.98] you would be wrong. That's not what I'm going to say. That's not it. In fact, just changing the -[698.98 --> 706.12] focus from what we can't do to what we can do isn't actually all that different. It still makes -[706.12 --> 714.14] the behavior the focus. It still makes this all about morality. But here's the thing, and this may -[714.14 --> 725.32] be controversial. Real faith isn't ultimately about your morality. How you behave in the world isn't -[725.32 --> 730.76] ultimately what our faith is about, right? That's impacted. Don't get me wrong. Don't hear what I'm -[730.76 --> 736.80] not saying. Of course, morality matters. But if you have made your religion, if you have made Christianity -[736.80 --> 743.18] or your faith only about not doing some things and doing certain other things, you've missed the point -[743.18 --> 754.30] of our faith. Listen carefully to this. God isn't interested in making you religious. -[755.92 --> 762.34] Think about Jesus. Jesus was hated by the religious people of his day, and he called them hypocrites -[762.34 --> 772.00] and a bunch of snakes. Religious people are hypocrites. And I could say that because I'm a hypocrite. -[773.18 --> 778.72] And I could stand up here and tell you what to do and how to believe, not because I figured it all out, -[778.82 --> 782.48] and from my perfection I'm shouting down from the mountaintops of my moral superiority. -[783.10 --> 789.36] I could stand here and tell you, because I'm on that same journey with you. I'm in that mud and muck -[789.36 --> 796.70] and mire of sin and temptation with you. What I have to say is only meaningful if it is the counsel of God, -[796.70 --> 799.04] if it is his word and not mine. -[799.04 --> 810.28] God isn't interested in making you religious. God isn't interested in making you spiritual. -[811.98 --> 818.44] Now, being a spiritual person used to mean that being above the world and her problems, right, -[818.48 --> 825.68] being aloof and disconnected. Today, being spiritual can mean being sort of transrational or even -[825.68 --> 831.58] irrational in what we believe, but that's not what we want either. And sometimes in today's world, -[831.72 --> 838.84] increasingly so, right, being spiritual means connecting to the sort of ethereal and nebulous -[838.84 --> 845.32] powers of the world and bending them to our desires, right, or manifesting your realities. -[845.32 --> 851.74] But that's not what we're talking about here either. God isn't interested in making you spiritual. -[853.66 --> 859.70] God isn't interested in your self-care as an excuse to be self-absorbed, and this may be the -[859.70 --> 866.66] primary idol of our therapeutic culture, but Jesus doesn't think of himself, right? Jesus sacrifices -[866.66 --> 874.66] himself, and he calls you to do the same. And likewise here, God isn't interested in your serenity. -[875.32 --> 880.06] Which can really, for most of us, just be a cover for apathy and indifference. -[881.62 --> 887.96] Think about Jesus again, right? He is passionate for God, right? And God is jealous for his own -[887.96 --> 896.40] glory. Jesus gets angry at sin, and he weeps for the city. There is a right crying out at injustice -[896.40 --> 903.32] and a proper raging against the dying of the light, right? We do not go quietly into that good night. -[903.32 --> 910.42] Instead, and here's the reframing for us that I was talking about, right? Here's that potential -[910.42 --> 917.94] paradigm shift. Instead of thinking about what we can't do, instead of thinking about what we can do, -[918.28 --> 923.20] real faith thinks about what it means to be holy. -[923.20 --> 936.60] You see, God is interested in making you holy. And before you say that holy is the same thing as -[936.60 --> 941.78] moral, hold on a minute, because it's not, right? That's what holiness has become in our sort of -[941.78 --> 946.64] common language. It's mischaracterized that way, right? Especially when you think of the language of -[946.64 --> 950.28] holier than thou. What does that mean, right? Well, it means they try to be a goody two-shoes, -[950.28 --> 956.70] right? It means they're a little sanctimonious or pietistic. And sure, a part of holiness is -[956.70 --> 966.40] righteousness, but holiness, first and foremost, is being set apart, right? God sets you apart. -[966.80 --> 974.02] God calls you out of darkness into his wonderful light. God calls you out on a mission, right? God -[974.02 --> 983.04] transplants you. God takes you out of death and gives you life. And God fills that life with a purpose. -[984.34 --> 993.68] When we say that God is holy, the first thing that we mean, right, is that God is wholly other. -[993.68 --> 1004.52] So when we say God is holy, H-O-L-L-Y, we mean he is wholly other, W-H-O-L-L-Y, right? He is transcendent. -[1004.76 --> 1010.96] He is eternal, incomprehensible, invisible, unchangeable, infinite, almighty. He is totally -[1010.96 --> 1020.52] set apart. He is other than all of creation. There is no one like him. That's holiness. And God calls you -[1020.52 --> 1031.60] to the same. Set apart for a purpose. That's the paradigm shift to approach real faith from. -[1033.02 --> 1040.20] And so instead of asking how far is too far, maybe ask what does it look like to be set apart -[1040.20 --> 1045.56] from the world who doesn't know God in my relationship to my girlfriend or my boyfriend? -[1045.56 --> 1052.62] Instead of asking how much is too much, ask what does it look like to have a purpose to glorify God -[1052.62 --> 1059.32] with alcohol or food or whatever? Instead of asking what am I supposed to do in this moment, -[1059.62 --> 1065.98] maybe wonder what does it look like to image Jesus here, right? If Jesus were living the life that I -[1065.98 --> 1071.66] am living, doing the job that I am doing, parenting the kids that I am parenting, whatever the circumstance -[1071.66 --> 1080.04] may be, how would he live it? Instead of focusing on the behavior that is wrong or even right, -[1080.52 --> 1085.46] instead of focusing on the temptation or desire that gives birth to sin, we need to look at what -[1085.46 --> 1095.04] it means to be holy. And look, I really love the way Tim Chester puts it in his book. The book is -[1095.04 --> 1101.18] titled You Can Change. The subtitle of that book is really telling. The subtitle is God's Transforming -[1101.18 --> 1107.16] Power for Your Sinful Behavior and Negative Emotions. And I reread that book in preparation for this -[1107.16 --> 1113.00] message, and it was really impactful even the second or third time for me reading it. But he says, and I -[1113.00 --> 1124.20] love this, the essence of holiness is not new behavior, activity, or disciplines. Holiness is new -[1124.20 --> 1134.20] new affections, new desires, and new motives that then lead to new behavior. Holiness consists not in heroic -[1134.20 --> 1150.48] acts, but in a thousand small decisions. Maybe you need to hear this this morning. You are holy. -[1150.48 --> 1163.16] God has made you holy. Look, there's a beautiful couple verses in Hebrews 10 that talks about how -[1163.16 --> 1172.16] Jesus' sacrifice is once for all, how the sacrifice in the temple and tabernacle before him were done -[1172.16 --> 1179.02] in order to fill up the meaning of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. What they were a shadow of, Jesus is the -[1179.02 --> 1186.90] fulfillment of. The author of Hebrews writes in verse 10 of chapter 10, we have been made holy through the -[1186.90 --> 1196.40] sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. Right? We have been made holy. We have been set apart -[1196.40 --> 1202.76] and granted a righteousness that comes from God through faith in Jesus. And then in verse 14, same chapter, -[1202.76 --> 1210.64] just a couple verses later, the author says, for by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who -[1210.64 --> 1224.78] are being made holy. You are holy and you are being made holy. It's a both and relationship, an and both, -[1224.78 --> 1232.84] right? That's faith made real. That's being hearers and doers. You are holy and you are being made -[1232.84 --> 1244.02] holy and so in your life of faith together be holy. As you face temptation, be who you are. Live in the power -[1244.02 --> 1254.12] of his new birth. James writes, he chose to give us birth through the word of truth that we might be a kind -[1254.12 --> 1264.84] of first fruits for all he created. This is who you are born to be. Listen to these words from John Piper. -[1266.60 --> 1274.92] Conversion is the creation of new desires, not just new duties. New delights, not just new deeds. New -[1274.92 --> 1282.70] treasures, not just new tasks. Right? When you face temptation, and you will face temptation if you are -[1282.70 --> 1291.12] generally a Christian, know that you are new. Your desires are new. Your delights are new. Your treasures -[1291.12 --> 1299.78] are new. You have new love and you love newly. You are not a slave to sin. You are not a slave to old -[1299.78 --> 1305.30] desires. You are not a slave to old nature. You are not a slave to the world or to the flesh. You are not -[1305.30 --> 1312.38] a slave to alcohol or to drugs or to porn or to sex or to lust or stealing or gossip. You might still -[1312.38 --> 1318.04] struggle with them. You might still struggle with all of them. But struggling with is different than -[1318.04 --> 1327.34] being defined by. You are something new. That's the gospel of Jesus. You are holy. -[1329.98 --> 1333.30] Again, I'm going to quote Tim Chester here. He says, -[1333.30 --> 1342.44] I need more than an example. I need help. I need someone to change me. Right? Trying to imitate -[1342.44 --> 1348.76] Jesus on its own leaves me feeling like a failure and I can't be like him. I can't match up. I need -[1348.76 --> 1354.98] sorting out. I need rescuing. I need forgiveness. The great news is that Jesus is not only my example, -[1354.98 --> 1364.26] but also my Redeemer. Because you see, there is a danger in a sermon like this. There is a danger -[1364.26 --> 1370.48] in a sermon like this that says, you need to change your behavior and you need to try harder to be -[1370.48 --> 1379.08] better at this. The reality is Jesus has done all the trying. Jesus has done all the better. Jesus has -[1379.08 --> 1387.22] lived life perfectly in righteousness for you, obeying all the demands of God's law. And by grace through -[1387.22 --> 1399.04] faith, he gives you his righteousness, gives you his obedience. And Jesus has died the death that we deserve. -[1399.04 --> 1413.66] My sin was granted over and given over to him. Your sin was given and put on him. And he bore it on the cross -[1413.66 --> 1428.98] for you and for me. And by his life and death and resurrection over sin and death, we have new life. -[1429.04 --> 1437.64] That's the new reality for us. Not that we need to try harder, but that Jesus has accomplished it. -[1439.08 --> 1448.16] Jesus has made you holy and he is making you holy. And so we get to live holy lives for him. -[1449.02 --> 1456.14] That's the first tool here, right? Reframing the conversation around sin and temptation by the gospel, -[1456.14 --> 1463.12] right? Moving it out of a category of behavior into an understanding of holiness. And this really -[1463.12 --> 1468.94] isn't a tool so much as it's a new reality, one that we need to be reminded of in our lives over and over -[1468.94 --> 1478.26] and over again. Live that new reality. The second tool is like it. We've already seen it. Maybe you caught -[1478.26 --> 1487.24] it as we read it, but James wrote, he chose to give us birth through the word of truth. -[1488.34 --> 1498.10] Look, over and over and over and over again in the Bible, this is true, right? God's word for you -[1498.10 --> 1504.88] is the power of salvation for all who believe. Romans 10, where we've already heard from, -[1504.88 --> 1510.88] says that the preached word is necessary for salvation. Romans 10, 17 says, -[1511.28 --> 1517.68] faith comes from hearing the message and the message is heard through the word of Christ. -[1517.88 --> 1527.38] The word of God is the means of regeneration. You are born by the word and the word of God is the means -[1527.38 --> 1536.76] of your sanctification. You are set apart in life by application of and obedience to God's word. -[1538.68 --> 1545.88] Think about it. Think about the power of God's word. Matthew 4, there's this really incredible story, -[1546.38 --> 1551.94] right? Jesus goes out into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil himself. -[1551.94 --> 1559.26] And when Jesus, the son of God incarnate, the word made flesh, the eternal son of the father who has -[1559.26 --> 1565.50] existed in Trinitarian fellowship with him and the spirit forever, when this Jesus was tempted in his -[1565.50 --> 1573.28] life by the devil, what did he do? Right? Jesus, who could have called down angel armies, Jesus, -[1573.42 --> 1577.48] who could have expelled the devil from his presence, Jesus, who could have just walked away, -[1577.48 --> 1584.56] Jesus quoted the Bible in the moments of his temptation, right? It was the Bible that pushes -[1584.56 --> 1591.54] the devil back. Jesus says, it was written, man does not live on bread alone, but on every word -[1591.54 --> 1599.04] that comes from the mouth of God. Get back, devil. It was also written, do not put the Lord your God to -[1599.04 --> 1606.86] the test. Back off, demon. For it is written, worship the Lord your God and serve him only. Jesus is saying, -[1606.94 --> 1614.28] you have no place here, Satan. The same is true for me and for you. The same is true for us. There is a -[1614.28 --> 1617.36] power to God's word when we face temptation. -[1617.36 --> 1624.72] But that power is most effective when you immerse yourself in it. -[1626.00 --> 1631.84] You can't use the power of God's word in your struggles if you aren't in the pages of God's word -[1631.84 --> 1639.64] on your best days. Right? When the language of the Bible just pours out of you as your own language, -[1639.64 --> 1647.94] there is a power and an impact to those words. All Scripture is God-breathed, we read, -[1648.76 --> 1654.38] and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness so that the servant -[1654.38 --> 1661.60] of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. When you breathe and speak Scripture, -[1661.86 --> 1665.60] it is like God breathing and speaking through you. -[1665.60 --> 1674.72] And in the moment of our temptation, you better believe that matters. You better believe that makes -[1674.72 --> 1687.96] difference. And then the third tool, and this one struck me more and afresh this week than it has -[1687.96 --> 1695.50] previously. Notice what James writes, and pay attention here to the pronouns. He chose to give -[1695.50 --> 1709.42] us birth, that we might be a kind of first fruits. Did you hear it? He chose us, that we, fruits, -[1709.90 --> 1718.96] plural, right? These are collective plural pronouns. Community, church, body, brothers and sisters on the -[1718.96 --> 1729.62] same journey of faith together. Are you getting it? Make it real, be hearers and doers, right? And making it real, -[1729.76 --> 1739.00] and being hearers and doers happens together. Fighting temptation happens in community. Learning, hearing, -[1739.00 --> 1751.32] applying the word happens in community. Many of you know this is the first Sunday of Lent, and Lent -[1751.32 --> 1758.34] officially begins on Ash Wednesday. And this year for Ash Wednesday, we did things a little bit differently, -[1758.60 --> 1764.74] but we still did the imposition of the ashes. And so when Pastor Kevin and I came to the church on -[1764.74 --> 1771.72] Wednesday morning, we did the imposition of ashes for each other, so that when people came in to receive -[1771.72 --> 1778.36] those ashes, we weren't marked in the same way. And so as Pastor Kevin marked my forehead, he said, -[1778.46 --> 1783.36] for the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord. And then -[1783.36 --> 1789.38] I had this black cross on my forehead for the rest of the day. There was a moment where I was in my study, -[1789.38 --> 1798.12] I was working, thinking, writing, away, and without thinking, I just sort of put my hands on my face like -[1798.12 --> 1809.84] this because I was processing. And then I looked at my hands, and they were black. And I thought, -[1809.84 --> 1821.72] isn't that exactly how sin works? It stains me in an unconscious way. And the Ash Wednesday moment made -[1821.72 --> 1828.22] that real for me in a way that had not yet been happening in my life. And so then I went and I -[1828.22 --> 1834.64] washed my hands, and the sin went away. And I thought, isn't that exactly how grace works? -[1834.64 --> 1844.10] An hour later, I walked by the mirror, and I saw that my cross was smudged. -[1845.28 --> 1849.56] And I thought, oh, I can't do that. I'm going to have people showing up here in a few minutes, -[1849.74 --> 1853.88] where I'm going to have to do the imposition of the ashes. And so I very carefully took one of the -[1853.88 --> 1858.22] Lysol wipes, which we have plentiful around here because of our COVID policies, and I very carefully -[1858.22 --> 1867.44] cleaned my smudge to look like a nice, good cross. And isn't that exactly what we do with our sins? -[1867.54 --> 1871.72] We manicure them, and we present them to the world in a way that is socially acceptable. -[1872.78 --> 1873.84] We hide the rest. -[1873.84 --> 1889.96] And then, on that night between four and six, when some 25, 30 people came, we had a moment to be in -[1889.96 --> 1897.44] community together and to recognize the reality of our sin, to stand together knowing that the wages -[1897.44 --> 1902.94] of sin of death, but the gift of God is eternal life. And all of those reflections and struggles from -[1902.94 --> 1916.56] the day before filled up that experience with you for me. When we face temptation and trials of sin, -[1916.78 --> 1929.40] we do not face them alone. We are together as a body. We are together as a family, brothers and sisters. -[1929.40 --> 1936.24] And so whatever it is that you are struggling with, however it is that you are manicuring your sin and -[1936.24 --> 1948.54] temptation, you are not alone. Be with us. Join us on this journey of life and faith and of making it real. -[1948.54 --> 1958.20] To be hearers and doers of the word is to face temptation. When we make our faith real, it will be hard. -[1959.06 --> 1967.98] But God has equipped us through new birth and new identity as holy. So reframe the discussion of sin -[1967.98 --> 1977.50] and temptation in the categories of what it means to be holy. God has given us his word to grant life and -[1977.50 --> 1987.50] to power and has given us the power to defeat sin and temptation in life. And we are not alone. -[1987.50 --> 1999.52] You are not alone. We live this real life faith together in community and that changes everything. -[2001.12 --> 2009.82] It's my prayer that today you experience the grace of God in a way that is more real than you have in -[2009.82 --> 2017.28] the last days or weeks or months or years. And maybe this is the first time, maybe this is the time -[2017.28 --> 2023.08] innumerable of your experience of that grace, but if it is, would you bless God for it? -[2024.96 --> 2032.46] Would you bless God for what he has done for you in Jesus? Amen. Let's pray together. -[2032.46 --> 2047.74] Lord our God, we bless you. We bless you for our new identities. We bless you for making us holy and for -[2047.74 --> 2053.72] the journey of being made holy. Lord, we need you. -[2053.72 --> 2064.62] When temptation comes our way, we need you. And so speak truth in your word. Speak truth in your word -[2064.62 --> 2072.84] through this community of faith. And may we together love and support one another so that as we go, -[2074.84 --> 2082.10] as we face the battles of temptation, we might know the joys of new life in you. -[2083.72 --> 2095.26] This is our prayer. Lord Jesus, be our blessing. In Christ's name we pray. Amen. Amen.